Woman's World

How Megan Evans’ Random Acts of Cardness Group is Changing Lives

mdillard — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 18:00:47 +0000

After surviving an accident, Megan Evans longed to bring comfort to others. Her idea soon turned into a worldwide movement of handwritten joy! Here, she shares her story with Woman’s World.

Megan Evans sat at home in Wickliffe, Ohio, writing cards for children at the local Ronald McDonald House.

A year earlier, Megan had survived a car crash that left her with a traumatic brain injury. Months of physical therapy followed — she had to relearn how to walk and talk.

While on the road to recovery, Megan was stamping envelopes one day when she thought, I wish I’d received more cards like this when I was at my worst.

The thought kept tugging at Megan’s heart until finally she decided to act.

“There are many campaigns to send cards to sick kids and seniors,” she posted on Facebook. “But what about the rest of us who need a few words of comfort? A reminder that someone is thinking of them?”

With that post, Megan launched a Facebook group she dubbed Random Acts of Cardness, where she invited users to share names of friends and relatives who might appreciate a kind card. The response was overwhelming.

“My cousin has a sick child—she could use some love,” wrote one member.

“My neighbor is about to celebrate her 50th anniversary,” wrote another.

“I love sending cards, only I rarely get the chance — at least not until now,” wrote a third happy new group member.

Megan soon found herself on the receiving end of a surprise “carding” from a friend, Rene, with the simple inscription, I’m thinking of you.

Megan’s group grew with members nominating people to receive cards and others ready to send them.

“I love sending and receiving cards,” smiles postal worker D’Anne Olson, who joined Random Acts of Cardness after learning about the group from a woman whose post box kept filling with greeting cards. “I’ve made carding friends around the world. We’re one big family.”

Sandy Hainlen has also sent thousands of cards to friends and strangers. After signing each card, Sandy uses a special hole punch to notch a heart shape into the paper.

“I keep the bits in a jar to remind me how many smiles I’ve put in the mail,” she says.

Today, Megan leads an army of more than 12,000 card warriors sending Random Acts of Cardness to all 50 states and 37 countries in the world. Megan herself mails over 100 cards every month.

“We’re bringing something tangible into people’s lives — something touched by human hands and sent with love. It helps us know we aren’t alone.”

Jennifer Garner’s Favorite Books—You’ll Want To Read ‘Em All

Allison Nemetz — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 18:00:08 +0000

Is there an official Jennifer Garner Book Club? Not yet, but there probably should be! Jennifer, 54, has been a passionate reader her whole life—thanks in large part to the magical Mrs. Annyce McCann, a West Virginia school librarian. “She was my first mentor, the first person who really took an interest in me for me,” Jen shared in an O interview.

And Mrs. McCann, who Jen still visits when she’s back home, wasn’t Jen’s only book-loving influence. Her mom, Pat, made time to read with Jen nightly (the pair took turns reading pages aloud!), a comforting habit they kept up into Jen’s tween years. It allowed the future actress, entrepreneur and mom-of-three to explore new worlds on the page while staying strongly connected to her own family. “I felt like a different person because of that,” she shared in an interview about her favorite books. So what titles are in the unofficial Jennifer Garner Book Club? Keep reading to find out.

Simon & Schuster

The book that inspired a starring role

The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

The tale of Hannah, a woman whose new husband mysteriously disappears, leaving her only a cryptic note reading “Protect her” — referring to his distrustful teen daughter from a previous marriage. “You can’t stop turning the pages because there is… this engine of, ’What is going to happen?’” she says. “She manages to give you a twist at the end of every chapter.”

Jennifer was so wowed, she wrote a very persuasive letter and got herself cast as Hannah in the Apple TV+ adaptation. “I was talking about the ways that somebody can disappear on you and it can bring out the best in you,” she recently shared on the One Nightstand podcast.

Jen’s also a fan of The First Time I Saw Him, which she called “a must-read sequel.” And both books make a nice companion to the two seasons of The Last Thing He Told Me, now streaming on Apple TV+.

HarperCollins

The book series she’s read again and again

Little House on the Prairie series by Laura Ingalls Wilder

The adventures of the Ingalls family as they head to the American West barely need an introduction. “I’ve probably read the whole series 15 times, 20 times, easily,” revealed Jen, whose grandmother was born on a covered wagon and whose mom grew up on a tiny farm “back when the feed sacks for animals were made out of calico and that calico she would use to make their clothes.”

Even after Jen’s daughter wrote a college paper pointing out harsh realities of settler life glossed over by the books, Jen still adores “the romanticism of what this family went through… to be pioneers in this beautiful, incredible country of ours.” And if you’ve also read the series before, it’s a great time to dip in again. It’ll be fresh in your mind when the new Little House series launches on Netflix in July.

Random House

The book that sparked self-discovery

The Book of Alchemy by Suleika Jaouad

Essays from 100 celebrated writers and thinkers—like Elizabeth Gilbert, Ann Patchett and John Green—are paired with writing prompts designed to help us use journaling to uncover our truest selves. Jen had completed dozens of the mini-journaling exercises before sitting down to chat with the book’s author. “The beauty is seeing what you keep repeating,” she shared with Suleika. “Eventually, you can’t help but ask, ’How can I shift this for myself?’”

Flame Tree Classic

The book that connects her to her mom

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

Jen’s mom made her an ardent lover of this classic that follows Anne Shirley, an irrepressible red-haired orphan mistakenly sent to live with an elderly brother and sister who had requested a boy to work their Prince Edward Island farm. What unfolds is a charming coming-of-age story, as Anne wins the hearts of her reluctant guardians and an entire community with endearing proclamations like “I’m so glad to live in a world where there are Octobers” and “Tomorrow is always fresh, with no mistakes in it yet.”

“My mom keeps it by her bed. She reads a little bit of it at night like the Bible, and she quotes it like the Bible,” Jennifer shared on One Nightstand. “I can’t even think of how many sayings from my childhood come from Anne.”

Penguin/Puffin

The book she thinks is ‘perfect’

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

One of literature’s most enduring portraits of sisterhood, this beloved novel follows the four March sisters—practical Meg, fiercely independent Jo, gentle Beth and romantic Amy—as they navigate poverty, ambition, love, and loss while their chaplain dad is off tending to soldiers during the Civil War.

“It is a perfect book,” Jen recently enthused on One Nightstand. “It has love, it has intrigue. It has the country kids doing okay. It has the missing father and the promise of him possibly appearing. It has the perfect blessed mother. It has the scare of the illness, and then it has tragedy. It has real tragedy. Is there anything more sad?” Yet it also reaffirms our faith in humanity—and there is nothing better than that.

Simon & Schuster

The history book so vivid ‘you feel the fabric of their clothes’

John Adams by David McCullough

If you want history that comes to life, look no further than the late Pulitzer Prize winner David McCullough. “I’ve tried to branch out and read other historians’ work, but nothing sticks with me or gets the pages turned as quickly as his books,” Jen once dished to O. “John Adams is incredibly, meticulously researched; you feel as if McCullough has gone back and felt the fabric of their clothes, smelled the paper that they wrote to each other on. It’s not only facts—you get a real sense of his subjects’ lives.”

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‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ Predicted Our Future 58 Years Ago—Here’s What It Got Right

Samantha Agate — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 12:14:05 +0000

In 1968, a film arrived unlike anything audiences had seen. Directed by Stanley Kubrick and written with science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke, 2001: A Space Odyssey combined scientific rigor with philosophical ambition. The world stood on the brink of the moon landing and deep in Cold War anxieties — and 58 years later, the film’s vision of the future remains remarkably relevant.

Stanley Kubrick built ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ on real science

At a time when science fiction films were dominated by spectacle, monsters or pulp adventure, Kubrick rejected the conventions of alien invasions, space battles and heroic protagonists. Instead, he crafted a film with minimal dialogue, long deliberate sequences and an emphasis on visual storytelling. Scientific accuracy was treated as essential rather than optional: spacecraft moved in silence, obeying the laws of physics, and the production design drew heavily on consultations with engineers and experts.

Rather than relying on major stars, Kubrick assembled a relatively low-profile cast, including Keir Dullea as astronaut Dave Bowman, Gary Lockwood as Frank Poole and William Sylvester as Dr. Heywood Floyd. The most memorable “performance” came from Douglas Rain, whose calm, measured voice brought the onboard computer HAL 9000 to life.

What ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ got right about space travel

Despite its speculative leaps, 2001: A Space Odyssey remains strikingly accurate in many scientific details. The film meticulously depicts the physics of space travel: spacecraft move in silence, obeying inertia, and astronauts navigate zero gravity realistically. Its rotating space station demonstrates centrifugal artificial gravity, reflecting concepts studied by real aerospace engineers. HAL 9000’s calm, logical interactions with the crew presaged later discussions about human-computer relationships. The spacecraft interiors, mission protocols and long-duration isolation of astronauts were grounded in real engineering and psychological research.

According to NASA-related sources, the movie is considered “perhaps the most thoroughly and accurately researched film in screen history with respect to aerospace engineering,” with advisers from Marshall Space Flight Center contributing to its depiction of space travel and artificial intelligence.

Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson wrote in a New York Times op-ed on January 1, 2001, comparing the film’s predictions to reality: “We’ve already invented such things. They are called robots, and they conduct all of our interplanetary exploration.”

Courtesy of Everett Collection

Where Stanley Kubrick’s ‘2001’ predictions missed the mark

Not every prediction came true, of course, and that’s part of what makes revisiting this film so fascinating. While Kubrick and Clarke got an impressive amount right about the science behind space travel, they also imagined a future where humanity had taken far bolder strides beyond Earth. The real year 2001 looked quite different from the one on screen, and even now, some of the film’s most ambitious visions for space exploration remain well out of reach.

By 2001, humans had not established lunar bases, nor were there routine commercial flights to orbit or massive rotating space stations. The film depicts a human mission to Jupiter, yet only robotic probes had reached the planet. The story’s speculative elements, such as the monoliths accelerating human evolution, were purely philosophical rather than scientific.

The lasting cultural impact of Stanley Kubrick’s ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’

The historical impact of the film extends far beyond its initial reception. The film fundamentally altered how science fiction was perceived in Hollywood. Before its release, the genre was often considered secondary — commercial, imaginative but rarely prestigious. After 2001, science fiction could be serious, philosophical and artistically ambitious.

The film’s practical effects became a benchmark for realism, directly influencing later films such as Star Wars and Interstellar. Released just one year before Apollo 11, it contributed to a cultural atmosphere that took space exploration seriously — not as fantasy, but as an achievable frontier. Scientists, engineers and designers have cited it as an inspiration, and NASA has acknowledged its role in shaping public imagination about space.

Kubrick offered one of the clearest insights into the film’s intent: “You’re free to speculate as you wish about the philosophical and allegorical meaning of the film.”

Clarke put it more directly: “If you understand 2001 completely, we failed. We wanted to raise far more questions than we answered.”

Fifty-eight years after its release, 2001: A Space Odyssey remains a defining work in both film history and science fiction. Its predictions about the early 21st century were only partially realized, but its deeper insights into technology, intelligence and human evolution continue to resonate.

Warm Earth Tones at Dollar Tree That Blend Indoors With Outdoors This Spring

Julianne MacNeill — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 21:00:36 +0000

As Earth Day approaches and spring begins to bloom, you may be looking for a way to freshen up your home and bring in some new colors and styles that feel like spring. Reset and refresh with these products from Dollar Tree that have all of the Earth tones and warm colors you need for the season. Here’s what the discount store has in store for you as you prepare for spring.

Why are are Earthy, warm tones all the rage?

Warm earth tones are inspired by nature, reflecting the soothing hues you see outdoors—think mossy greens, olive shades, terracotta, deep browns and soft tans. Their muted, gentle quality creates a calming, grounded atmosphere, which is why these colors are so popular in home design.

They pair beautifully with natural materials like wood, stone and linen, further connecting indoor spaces to the tranquility of the outdoors. Avoid bright or loud colors, as they can disrupt the serene, harmonious feeling that these tones naturally evoke.

Add Earth tones to your home from Dollar Tree

Floral moss

Courtesy of Dollar Tree

This is a simple but effective way to bring warm, earthy tones into your spring decor. Add Dollar Tree’s floral moss to any vase or planter to instantly create that natural, grounded feel and highlight warmer hues. At just $1.75, this faux moss is a fun, affordable way to enhance your plants or floral arrangements with a fresh, springtime touch.

Terracotta Earth tone starter pots

Courtesy of Dollar Tree

Get your spring plants growing early with these terracotta starter pots. These pots will bring that rustic charm to your plants. They’re perfect for herbs, succulents or flowers, plus you can get them in different sizes. Whether you prefer a 12-pack of smaller pots or a 6-pack of larger ones, you can use these whatever you needs are.

For just $1.50 per pack, these pots are perfect to bring that warm, organic feel and with its terracotta clay finish, they will really bring your space together.

One review for the terracotta starter pots reads, “Get these! The smaller ones are great for seed starting and the larger ones are great for seedlings before potting up.”

Vanilla air freshener

Courtesy of Dollar Tree

These brown vanilla sugar air fresheners are perfect to get that Earthy vibe while also making sure your home smells incredible.

These gel air fresheners are perfect to blend the sweet scent of brown sugar and creamy vanilla, filling the air with its warm comfort. The fragrance and tan color of the jar brings those earthy tones and adds to that warm atmosphere. Choose between the gel air freshener and the crystal beads, both available in the brown sugar vanilla scent.

Pop open the $1.50 9 ounce container anywhere—from bathrooms to bedrooms—for freshness and a delicious fragrance. Shop on a budget while also getting that Earthy look for spring.

Wooden picture frame

Courtesy of Dollar Tree

Spotlight your favorite photos with this adorable 5×7 brown photo frame. Designed with a warm, natural wooden finish, this frame incorporates those cozy earthy tones, perfect for the spring months. Whether you display this frame on your desk, counter or vanity, it is sure to add a touch of rustic elegance to any space. For just $1.50, you can elevate your space with this homey-feeling picture frame.

Small straw baskets

Dollar Tree

Add easy texture and practical storage with the 6.3-inch Weaving Straw Basket from Dollar Tree. Its simple straw‑style weave in three earth tones—beige, brown, and natural—adds a cozy, rustic look that blends beautifully with boho, farmhouse or minimalist interiors—for $1.25 each!

Head into Dollar Tree to grab these Earthy-toned products and spruce up your space for spring without overspending!

Heart Attack Survivor Reunites With Nurse Who Saved Her

mdillard — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 21:30:50 +0000

When nurse practitioner Alison Hoit leaned over a cardiac patient’s bedside and assured the frightened woman she was going to be okay, she never guessed that mere months later she herself would be comforted in a time of need by the very same woman! Here, they share their story with Woman’s World.

Early Monday morning, NICU nurse Pam Kays was listening to the charge nurse give a report to a trainee when a wave of nausea and heat rushed through her body.

I must be coming down with something, she thought. But then her jaw clenched and her chest tightened painfully.

Pam recognized the symptoms and headed into the practitioner’s office. “I’m having a heart attack,” she calmly stated as her arms and legs began tingling.

“Quick! Chew an aspirin!” her manager instructed and summoned the hospital’s emergency team.

In the ER, doctors started an IV, but Pam soon went into full cardiac arrest.

Alison is grateful that she and Pam had the chance to be there for each other
Alison Hoit

A calming voice

Pam suffered a “widowmaker” heart attack and a surgeon had to open her blocked artery with a stent.

Pam was on a respirator hours later when she awoke. She motioned for a pad and pen and wrote: Is the respirator in correctly? How long will I be on it?

The cardiac ICU nurses scurried about, trying to calm Pam and answer her questions. But then Alison Hoit, the unit’s nurse practitioner, appeared.

Realizing Pam was terrified, Alison gave a warm smile. “Don’t worry. We’re going to take good care of you,” she said, and her words settled over Pam.

The next morning, Pam was strong enough to breathe on her own.

By Alison’s next shift, Pam had already been transferred to another unit. It was common for Alison to treat patients and never know their outcome.

Happily, for Pam, the outcome was excellent. After only four days, she went home and started cardiac rehab. Three months later, she was feeling like herself again and back at work in the NICU.

The miraculous reunion

A few months later, Pam approached a new patient, an infant born six weeks premature. “How are you?” she asked the woman sitting nearby.

“This is my granddaughter, Maddie,” the woman explained, clearly anxious.

The two women continued their chat as Pam checked the baby’s monitors. “My daughter also works for Cleveland Clinic—in the cardiac ICU,” she said, and Pam broke into a smile.

“Really? I was a patient there a few months back,” she said — and just then, the baby’s mom returned to the floor.

It was Alison, who stopped short, pointed and exclaimed, “You’re Pam!”

Just then, Alison broke down in tears. “I’m so scared,” she sobbed. “I can hardly keep track of what’s going on.”

“It’s going to be okay,” Pam echoed the words Alison herself had spoken to her in her darkest hour. “We’re going to take good care of Maddie.”

Pam and Alison spoke nearly every day. “Is this okay? Is that normal?” the worried mom would ask, and Pam always made her feel calm and hopeful.

After six long weeks, Alison got to take Maddie home. She’s doing great, and today Pam and Alison remain close friends.

“It was fate,” Alison insists. “Pam and I were meant to meet when each of us needed the other most.”

Pam agrees. “Alison gave me comfort and courage during a scary time. I’m so grateful I was given the chance to do the same for her!”

“Alison gave me comfort and courage I needed,” says Pam with Maddie
Alison Hoit

This story first appeared in the March 30, 2026, issue of Woman’s World magazine.

Does Social Security Count as Income for SNAP? What Seniors Need to Know

cmosness — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:13:03 +0000

As inflation and tariffs raise the price of so many items, many Americans are turning toward the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help cover the cost of their groceries. This includes seniors, who often rely on Social Security to fund their daily needs. But does Social Security count as income for SNAP? And if it doesn’t, how can seniors qualify for the government-funded nutrition program? We look into all of that and more below.

Does Social Security count as income for SNAP?

To qualify for SNAP, Americans must have a gross monthly income at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty line, meaning they must make $1,729 or less a month, and have under $3,000 in assets.

Chris Wu, a finance expert who specializes in helping families navigate government-assistance programs, explains, “SNAP is a means-tested program, which means eligibility depends on gross and net household income. Social Security retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and survivor benefits are usually included in income.”

Wu also notes that because of a program called the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Combined Application Projects—a partnership between the Social Security Administration, state agencies and the Food and Nutrition Service—some people might be able to get SNAP benefits without a lengthy application process. Most of the time, this happens by eliminating the face-to-face SNAP interview and uses the SSI application process instead.

Getty

Currently, residents of Florida, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New York, South Carolina and Washington all prequalify for this program.

Arizona, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas and Virginia also offer a version of the Combined Application Project, but the rules for qualifying in these states vary so it’s important to check in with your local SNAP office to see if you can benefit from the program.

Other ways seniors can qualify for SNAP

If a senior isn’t on Social Security, Wu says they can use other sources of income to qualify for SNAP.

“These sources can include pensions, retirement-account withdrawals, part-time earnings, SSDI, veterans’ benefits and certain types of annuities,” he explains. “SNAP also takes allowable deductions into account, which can make a significant difference in whether you’re eligible. Seniors can deduct out-of-pocket medical costs above a certain threshold, housing expenses and utility bills. Making these deductions can decrease net income figures and increase the chances of qualifying.”

Do the new work requirements impact seniors’ eligibility for SNAP?

Many states are either working to or have already introduced new SNAP work requirements. For example, in New York, adults ages 18 to 64 without disabilities or dependents under the age of 14 must work, volunteer or train for at least 80 hours a month to keep their SNAP benefits. This means seniors who take Social Security at 62 will have to volunteer, work or train to keep their SNAP benefits, unless they are exempt.

Douglas Sacha/Getty

The good news? “Most individuals aged 60 or over are expected to be exempt,” Wu assures. “As always, seniors should check the latest guidelines in their state, because how these are implemented can vary.”

How to apply for SNAP benefits

If you’re interested in applying for SNAP, follow these steps to get started:

Visit the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) SNAP State Directory or call 1-800-221-5689 to find your state’s SNAP office.
Gather your documents: You’ll need proof of identity, Social Security number, proof of income (including Social Security statements) and information about your housing costs and medical expenses.
Submit your application online, by mail or in person.
Attend your phone or in-person interview with a SNAP caseworker.
Most states process applications within 30 days and if you’re approved, you’ll receive an EBT card, which works like a grocery store debit card.

Other food resources for seniors who don’t qualify for SNAP

If a senior doesn’t qualify for SNAP, Wu recommends looking into the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), which is administered by the USDA and provides monthly food boxes to low-income seniors. For more information on this program, click here.

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“Local food banks and community pantries continue to be critical resources. Many communities also have senior-specific meal programs through organizations like Meals on Wheels, which provides prepared meals to homebound older adults,” he continues. “Some states and municipalities also administer senior farmers market nutrition programs, which issue vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables.” Finally, he adds that many faith-based organizations and community centers provide meal services or support to supplement these programs.

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'Law & Order' 25th Anniversary Celebration: See the Photos!

Julianne MacNeill — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 22:21:52 +0000

Dun dun! Stars from all over the Law & Order universe collided at last night’s Law & Order 25th anniversary celebration. The event brought together the cast and crew from multiple Law & Order series, including Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Law & Order.

It’s been 35 years since the Law & Order universe first opened up with the original series in 1990, starring Dan Florek, Chris Noth and Steven Hill, later bringing on Sam Waterston and Jerry Orbach (among many others). The series then spawned other shows, including Law & Order: SVU, Law & Order: Organized Crime and Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

The original series aired from 1990 until 2010 when it was canceled by NBC but that was just a hiatus. Law & Order returned in 2022 for its 21st season after 11 years off the air. Now, the Law & Order universe is celebrating 25 years on TV with an anniversary party and all of the stars came out. See your favorite actors and actresses from the original series as they celebrate 25 years of the show.

Mariska Hargitay shines at the celebration

Mariska Hargitay attends the “Law and Order” 25th Anniversary Celebration on January 6, 2026 in New York City
Jamie McCarthy / Staff

Mariska Hargitay, best known for her role as Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, stepped out last night to commemorate 25 years of the Law & Order universe. Hargitay first joined the series in 1999 with the beginning of SVU and has been in a starring role ever since.

The actress shared her appreciation for the show’s creator, Dick Wolf in a sweet Instagram post, writing, “Congratulations @dickwolf for doing what no one has done before or will ever do.
you are a true visionary.”

Sam Waterston offers a toast

Sam Waterston attends the “Law and Order” 25th Anniversary Celebration on January 6, 2026 in New York City.
Jamie McCarthy / Staff

Sam Waterston joined the rest of his cast mates at the celebration, raising his glass. Waterston joined the original Law & Order series as executive assistant district attorney Jack McCoy in 1994. The actor replaced another character, played by Michael Moriarty, on the show.

Waterston’s role was only meant to be around for one season but due to his performance and his character’s popularity, he ended up sticking around until 2010 and then returning in 2022 for the reprisal. The actor eventually left the show in 2024 to move onto to other roles.

Benjamin Bratt and S. Epatha Merkerson

Benjamin Bratt and S. Epatha Merkerson attend the “Law and Order” 25th Anniversary Celebration on January 6, 2026 in New York City
Jamie McCarthy / Staff

S. Epatha Merkerson and Benjamin Bratt, who both starred on Law & Order, posed for a photo together at the 25th anniversary celebration. Merkerson joined in 1991, playing lieutenant Anita Van Buren, remaining on the series for nearly 20 years until its hiatus in 2010. The actress went on to star in Chicago Med for over a decade, beginning her reign as Sharon Goodwin in 2015.

Bratt joined the series in 1995 as Detective Rey Curtis and remained until 2009, when he left to focus on his film career and family life. The actor is also best known for his roles in Miss Congeniality (2000), Traffic (2000) and Coco (2017).

Kelli Giddish

Kelli Giddish attends the “Law and Order” 25th Anniversary Celebration on January 6, 2026 in New York City
Jamie McCarthy / Staff

You might recognize Kelli Giddish from her 20 years on Law & Order: SVU as detective Amanda Rollins. Giddish is all smiles at the Law & Order 25th Anniversary Celebration. Giddish appeared on the show from 2007 to 2024 as a series regular, and will be returning to her role as a regular in the upcoming season!

The Best Faith-Based Christmas Movies on Prime for Cozy, Meaningful Family Nights

mdillard — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 01:00:31 +0000

What we all love most about Christmas is that it rounds out the year with a time to slow down, pile onto the couch with the people you love and making memories together. But finding something to watch that makes everyone happy can be quite a feat.

We’re always on the hunt for faith-based films that capture the heart of the season while still delivering cozy, holly-jolly fun. Amazon Prime’s selection helps turn an ordinary evening into meaningful family time. From inspiring retellings of the Nativity to music-filled specials and kid-friendly favorites, these films offer warmth, wonder, and entertainment the whole family can enjoy!

Christmas with The Chosen: Holy Night

Fans of The Chosen will be captivated by this moving special. The special event that retells the Nativity story through the eyes of Mary and Joseph, featuring performances by stars like Andrea Bocelli and Matteo Bocelli, by watching with your Prime subscription. It combines elements from the popular The Chosen series, blending short films with music for an inspiring Christmas experience.

The fan-favorite series celebrates the origin of the Christmas story in a way that only The Chosen can.

Full of Grace

View the Christmas story from a new perspective by taking an unprecedented look at the mother of Jesus in her last earthly days as she helps the fractious early Church regain their original encounter with her Son, Jesus Christ.

The Nativity Story

Betrothed to much-older Joseph (Oscar Isaac), Mary (Keisha Castle-Hughes) must remain a maiden for one year, but she subsequently receives a visit from the angel Gabriel, who tells her of her destiny. When Joseph and now-heavily pregnant Mary journey to Bethlehem for the Roman census, they face a threat from King Herod, whose obsession with an ancient prophecy endangers soon-to-be-born Jesus. A dramatic unfolding of the classic Christmas story come to life. Watch with a 7-day free trial of VIX Premium on Prime.

The Star

Perfect for the kiddos at Christmas, this too-cute and sweet Golden Globes nominated animated film will captivated kids and adults of all ages. Starring Bo, a brave donkey, and all his new hilarious animal friends as they go on the adventure of their dreams filled with lots of laughter and fun for the whole family. Rent for $3.99.

Find more from Wonder Project on Amazon Prime

Christmas Traditions Unwrapped with Kimberly Schlapman

Join Little Big Town’s Kimberly Schlapman as she celebrates heartfelt Christmas traditions. From chopping down a tree with Lauren Alaina, to baking with the family, eggnog with Kathie Lee Gifford and crocheting with Emily Ann Roberts. After a time-honored family tradition, a call with Dolly Parton sets up a very special performance with Grammy-winner Carly Pearce dedicated to three special sisters.

for KING + COUNTRY’s A Drummer Boy Christmas LIVE

Step into the Christmas spirit like never before as 4x GRAMMY-award winning for KING + COUNTRY lead audiences on a sonic journey of musical mastery, heartwarming storytelling, and the dazzling production the duo is renowned for, in front of a high energy sold out arena crowd of 12,000+ in Houston, TX. Embrace the most wonderful time of the year with the holiday event of the season.

Reba McEntire’s Christmas in Tune

Years after their personal and professional breakup, the singing duo of Georgia (Reba McEntire) and Joe Winter (John Schneider) agree to reunite after their daughter, Belle (Candice King), asks them to participate in a Christmas Charity concert, only to find themselves getting back in tune on stage and off.

Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain’s Journey

When the remains of POW and Army combat chaplain Emil Kapaun are identified after 70 years, a younger former chaplain embarks on a journey to greet them and is inspired by the stories of the 419 fallen heroes of this unique calling. From award-winning filmmakers Rich Hull and Justin D. Roberts and executive producer Chris Pratt.

Adventure in Wonder (S1)

When a Texas family abandons their comfort zone for the Croatian seas, they discover that the most profound adventures—and deepest connections—happen when you’re brave enough to navigate the unknown together. (Premieres on December 28).

Subscribe to Wonder Project’s subscription on Prime Video ($8.99/month, $89.99/year or 7-day free trial) to view all of the Wonder Project titles.

In addition to the Wonder Originals, Wonder Project’s subscription on Prime Video offers audiences more than 125 licensed titles and over 1,000 hours of hand-picked films and TV series across multiple genres that embody the company’s mission. These titles include “Miracle on 34th Street,” “Cast Away,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Sherlock,” “The Sound of Music,” “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” “The Mysterious Benedict Society,” “Pride & Prejudice,” “Jesus Revolution” and many more. You can take a scroll through the page HERE to get a glimpse of available titles!

Mandy Moore on Her Kids’ RSV Scare, Mom Life, and Finding Grace Every Day

Julianne MacNeill — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 23:30:06 +0000

Few artists embody versatility like Mandy Moore, whose career spans music, film, and television. Moore first rose to fame as a pop star in the late 1990s with hits like Candy and I Wanna Be With You, then evolved into a thoughtful singer-songwriter with albums like Wild Hope and Silver Landings.

In 2002, she made audiences fall in love with her heartfelt performance in A Walk to Remember, later voicing Rapunzel in Disney’s Tangled. From 2016 to 2022, Moore earned acclaim for playing family matriarch Rebecca Pearson in NBC’s hit series This Is Us.

Now, Moore is lending her voice to another important role — as spokesperson for ProtectAgainstRSV.com, helping raise awareness about respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common illness that affects two out of three babies by age one. The mission is personal: both of Moore’s sons were diagnosed with RSV, inspiring her to educate other parents about the virus. Woman’s World sat down with Moore to get her story…and her new mission

Woman’s World: Take me back to when your two sons, Gus and Ozzie, were diagnosed with RSV.

Mandy Moore: It happened around Halloween of 2023. It was scary and jarring, but thankfully, they didn’t have to be hospitalized.

WW: And soon after, you learned you were pregnant with your third child?

Mandy Moore and her daughter, Lou
Courtesy of Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore: Yes! That experience made me determined to protect our next baby, Lou, who was born in September 2024—right before RSV season. Our pediatrician told us about Beyfortus, a preventive antibody that helps protect babies from serious RSV lung infections. Given what we went through with the boys, I made sure Lou received it.

WW: What symptoms did the boys have, and when did you know it was more than a cold?

Mandy Moore: RSV can start like a common cold, but I could tell something wasn’t right. My older son gets croup often, so I’m used to respiratory issues—but this was different. We went to the pediatrician and got the diagnosis just before Halloween. Humidifiers helped, and thankfully, we got through it at home.

WW: Were they disappointed to miss trick-or-treating?

Mandy Moore: Yes, but we made it fun! My husband and I turned our house into a mini Halloween village. I ran door-to-door handing out different candies—one door for gummy bears, one for M&Ms, one for lollipops. They still got the experience without spreading germs.

WW: How did you handle the stress of two sick kids?

Mandy Moore: I tried to have grace for myself and leaned on my doctor’s guidance. Staying in close contact with our pediatrician gave me peace of mind.

WW: Has becoming the spokesperson for ProtectAgainstRSV.com helped you heal from that experience?

Mandy Moore: Absolutely. I’m honored to advocate for new and expecting parents. Raising awareness about RSV and letting families know they have options is something I’m passionate about.

WW: You’ve got three kids under five. How do you juggle it all?

Mandy Moore and her children
Courtesy of Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore: It’s definitely a lot! I remind myself, “This is just a moment.” Every phase—no matter how chaotic—is temporary. I try to zoom out, breathe, and keep perspective.

WW: What gets you through tough mom moments?

Mandy Moore: Deep breaths, patience and grace. I remind myself I’m human. Parenthood is unpredictable—some days are tough, others are magical. Allowing myself to be imperfect helps me stay grounded.

WW: How has motherhood changed you?

Mandy Moore with her husband, Taylor, and her children
Courtesy of Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore: It’s taught me flexibility. No two days look the same. I try to balance work, parenting, and self-care. Sometimes that means working out or having a date night after the kids go to bed—just making sure my cup feels full in different ways.

WW: You’ve also spoken about living with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Did that affect how you handled your sons’ RSV?

Mandy Moore: Thankfully, no. My doctors monitored me closely during pregnancy because ITP affects blood clotting, but it didn’t change how I cared for my kids.

WW: You mentioned date nights with your husband, Taylor Goldsmith. How do you make time for each other?

Mandy Moore: We’re intentional about it! My mother-in-law is an amazing babysitter, and we carve out a couple time whenever we can. Sometimes that’s a quiet night with wine or watching The Great British Bake Off. It’s our way of reconnecting.

WW: Do you still get butterflies after all these years?

Mandy Moore: Always. Taylor’s my best friend. After the kids go down, we can just be together—that’s my favorite time of day.

WW: And with three little ones?

Mandy Moore’s three children
Courtesy of Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore: We’re still figuring it out! Parenting changes constantly. One week it’s sleep regressions, the next it’s picky eating. I’ve learned never to get too comfortable—kids keep you on your toes!

WW: You released your 7th studio album, In Real Life, in 2022. Any new music on the horizon?

Mandy Moore: Not right now, but I’m sure it’ll come around again soon. Music is always part of me.

WW: You’re also voicing a new animated series and filming a show called The Land.

Mandy Moore: Yes! The Land is created by Dan Fogelman, who also did This Is Us. It’s about an NFL family, and I play the daughter being groomed to take over the team. She’s a tough, unapologetic businesswoman—very different from roles I’ve played before. It’s so much fun!

WW: Sounds like a great reunion with Dan Fogelman.

Mandy Moore: Totally. Many This Is Us crew members are part of it too—it feels like coming home. The show will stream on Hulu next year.

WW: Would you ever revisit Tangled in a live musical version?

Mandy Moore: I know a live-action Tangled is in the works! I’m way too old to play Rapunzel, but I’d love to be involved in some way. If the right movie musical came along, that would be a dream.

WW: Do your kids know you’re Rapunzel?

Mandy Moore: They know she’s my favorite princess, but I don’t think they realize she’s me (laughs).

WW: Do you still sing your kids to sleep?

Mandy Moore and her kids
Courtesy of Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore: I used to! Now our bedtime routine is more about stories—“Once upon a time” tales where they pick the theme. When they were younger, they always wanted one song from me and one from their dad. I’d love to bring that back.

WW: You seem to have it all figured out.

Mandy Moore: Oh, I’m definitely still figuring it out—but I’ll keep faking it till I make it! (laughs)

WW: What are your favorite holiday traditions?

Mandy Moore: Breakfast for dinner on Christmas Eve! We did it when I was a kid—eggs, bacon, pancakes—and I’ve passed it on to my family. It’s the best way to kick off the holiday.

For more information about RSV, visit ProtectAgainstRSV.com

Lifetime's Christmas Lineup Is Here—13 New Premieres Starting Soon!

Raquel Lekic — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:00:22 +0000

New holiday movies every weekend? Sign us up! Countless television networks from Hallmark to Great American Family have announced their loaded Christmas movie lineups, and Lifetime is joining in on the fun with their It’s a Wonderful Lifetime holiday programming! Catch new and familiar faces bringing to life heartwarming stories—and even a gripping mystery—around the holidays, beginning on November 29. Check out the full lineup here!

November 29 at 8 p.m.: ‘Christmas Everyday’

After the death of her father, Fancy juggles carrying on her dad’s Christmas traditions while also planning her sister’s wedding. However, a burst pipe on the bridezilla’s big day leads Fancy to Jaylen, the contractor who’s come to remedy the issue. During this hectic holiday season, Fancy learns a thing or two about what Christmas is really all about.

November 29 at 10 p.m.: ‘The Christmas Campaign’

The Christmas Campaign, 2025
Courtesy of Lifetime/A+E Global Media

A by-the-book ad executive is paired up with a lax strategist to come up with a creative sales pitch for a big client ahead of the holidays. As they clash in their approaches and competition heats up between the two, so do the feelings between them as they spend more time with one another and learn that they might just be better together.

December 4 at 8 p.m.: ‘Do You Fear What I Fear’

Claire ditches her holiday hometown for the city, but not long after getting comfortable, she’s perplexed by mysterious Christmas decor showing up in her apartment, with messages indicating that their sender is someone she knows.

December 5 at 8 p.m.: ‘Jingle All the Way to Love’

When a woman receives a lucky sleigh bell on New Year’s Eve from a handsome stranger, she passes it along. Years later, after winning a radio contest, the host of the show shares the story, prompting listeners to help look for the mystery man who first gifted it to her.

December 5 at 10 p.m.: ‘A Christmas Cookbook’

Newly single around the holidays, a woman finds comfort in a group of foodies embracing single life, and it isn’t long before she hits it off with Cullen, the club’s founder.

December 6 at 8 p.m.: ‘Deck the Hallways’

Deck the Hallways, 2025
Courtesy of Lifetime/A+E Global Media

When a tech executive, Zoe, returns home to visit her grandma, she learns she’s set aside the once vibrant holiday traditions she used to embrace with her late husband, including the festive Christmas party he hosted. Craving that same nostalgia, Zoe teams up with her neighbors and her childhood crush as they work together to bring back the beloved tradition and holiday spirit.

December 6 at 10 p.m.: ‘Merry Missed Connections’

Marie attends a speed dating event, bringing along her trusted diary to reference her list of dos and don’ts she’s come up with over the years. However, when she sets her diary down, she accidentally grabs and leaves with the wrong one, sending her on the hunt for the person she accidentally swapped with.

December 12 at 8 p.m.: ‘A Runaway Bride for Christmas’

A runaway bride flees to her hometown, where she reconnects with her old crush, but when her ex returns looking to make things work, things get complicated.

December 12 at 10 p.m.: ‘Christmas in Alaska’

Two journalists vying for the same promotion end up stranded together in Alaska when their plane has to make an emergency landing. Megan aids her son in completing his holiday bucket list while Oliver works toward helping his sister save her inn, and romance might just start brewing between these two rivals.

December 13 at 8 p.m.: ‘Thank God: Christmas at Keller Ranch’

When a pro hockey player suffers a major injury right before Christmas, he heads to Keller Ranch. While there, he meets a rancher named Maggie who aids him with his equine therapy. As he works toward healing to continue playing the rest of the season, they grow closer.

December 13 at 10 p.m.: ‘Rodeo Christmas Romance’

An equestrian looking over her friend’s ranch and nursing her injured horse back to health butts heads with Noal, a gruff veteran.

December 19 at 8 p.m.: ‘Sweet Holiday Romance’

A pastry chef enters a baking competition that requires her to team up with another business to compete. Her hometown fudge shop seems like the perfect choice, though she’s surprised to learn that the owner’s hunky nephew has been left in charge, and he has very little fudge-making experience. Will sparks fly in this sweet holiday flick as the team works toward victory?

December 20 at 8 p.m.: ‘A Pickleball Christmas’

A Pickleball Christmas, 2025
Courtesy of Lifetime/A+E Global Media

A tennis star returns home, only to discover that his family’s racquet club is at risk of being sold. With the help of the club’s pickleball coach, they work together to win a holiday tournament that could save the establishment.

With 13 new premieres to enjoy, this holiday season is shaping up to be extra special. Pour yourself something warm, settle into your favorite spot, and let Lifetime’s It’s a Wonderful Lifetime bring the magic of Christmas right into your living room. These heartwarming stories remind us of the joy, love, and hope that make the holidays truly magical!