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9 Products That Prove Bath & Body Works Is The Coolest Store In The Mall Again

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Bath & Body Works was a staple of our youth. Just hearing the name takes us back to middle school dances and the inescapable cloud of fruity body mist in the gymnasium. And how about those hand sanitizers that hooked onto your book bag? We lived for them (though now we're a bit more picky about which ones we'll palm).

But as we've matured, so has Bath & Body Works. And the brand's holiday offerings, new launches, and classic throwbacks are worth going to the mall for. Don't believe us? Click ahead and feel the good memories start to wash over you.

Don't have space in your tiny apartment for an actual tree or festive garland? This is the next best thing. (And much less messy, too.)

Bath & Body Works Evergreen Scented Candle, $12.50, available at Bath & Body Works.

We had countless Bath & Body Works-brand loofahs back in the day, but something about a sea sponge feels so much more grown-up.

Bath & Body Works Sea Shower Sponge in Bumpy, $4.50, available at Bath & Body Works.

You'll find this one right near checkout, and we highly recommend snatching it up. The minty scent seems to freshen our breath at the end of the day, and puts us in the holiday spirit.

C.O. Bigelow Lip Balm in Mentha, $7.50, available at Bath & Body Works.

The brand has brought back its range of discontinued scents for an online-only promotion: Buy two, get one free; buy three, get three free; buy 400...and we don’t even know.

Bath & Body Works Signature Collection Shower Gel in Cucumber Melon, $12.50, available at Bath & Body Works.

The perfect gift to wow and potentially confuse, this bedazzled sleeve is meant to house your favorite Bath & Body Works mist.

Bath & Body Works Fine Fragrance Mist Sleeve in Glitter & Pearls, $12.50, available at Bath & Body Works.

This treatment will make a great stocking stuffer for anyone who has cracked heels or just appreciates a good play on words.

True Blue Spa Cracked Heel Treatment Heel of Approval, $20, available at Bath & Body Works.

Sprinkle a handful of these salts into your bath, breathe in, and try not to fall asleep.

Aromatherapy Bath Soak in Lavender Vanilla, $16, available at Bath & Body Works.

Live in warmer climes and dream of a winter wonderland? Grab this snowy shower gel. Bonus points if you keep the water freezing.

Bath & Body Works Signature Collection Shower Gel in Fresh Sparkling Snow, $14, available at Bath & Body Works.

No Bath & Body Works roundup is complete without at least one hand soap. This foamy formula is our favorite, because it transforms our sink into a wine fountain. Just, please, don’t actually drink it.

Bath & Body Works Gentle Foaming Hand Soap in Black Cherry Merlot, $6.50, available at Bath & Body Works.

Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!

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How To Do Black Friday Without Getting Off The Couch

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Ah, Black Friday, a time of crazy deals and even crazier people. Luckily, most companies (we see you, Amazon) have turned the day's festivities into week- or month-long events, so you can space out your shopping or choose to get it all done pre-Thanksgiving food coma.

Another major bonus: You can do all of it online. While some stores still offer early morning specials or the chance to get an extra 5% off in-store, those deals often extend online, too. Plus, do you really want to fight for a parking space at 6 a.m. before you've even had your coffee? Answer: A very firm no.

So this Black Friday, curl up with Gilmore Girls and do a little shopping. Don't walk or run — just click. Here, 36 of the best buys we've seen.

This little gadget from Google plugs directly into your TV and makes it easy to stream straight from your phone, laptop, or tablet.

Google Chromecast, $25 (originally $35), available at Google Store.

Apple isn't discounting MacBook Pros or iPhones, but it is giving away gift cards when you buy specific products. Purchase an Apple TV, iPhone 6s, iPad Pro, MacBook Pro, or Apple Watch and you'll get a gift card worth up to $150. For a company that rarely has sales or freebies, this is big.

Photo: Apple.com.

Google Home, a voice-activated speaker that has a virtual assistant to help you play music and get real-time traffic news, is brand new and likely to be on many friends' wish lists. Get it on sale for less than $100 now.

Google Home, $99 (originally $129), available at Google Store.

Save over $100 on the 13.3-inch version of Apple's ridiculously light MacBook Air when you buy it at Newegg.

Apple MackBook Air, $879.99 (originally $999.99), available at newegg.com.

Gear up with a tracker that will give you all the details on your sleep and activity, while also sending you text notifications. If you've been holding off on buying one because of price, this deal on Garmin's Vivosmart will make it worth the purchase.

Garmin Vivosmart HR Activity Tracker + Heart Rate, $69.99 (originally $149.99), available at BestBuy.

While you won't get a discount on an iPhone 7 or 7 Plus, you can get a free $250 Target gift card when you buy one there. That's $250 you can put towards your Cyber Monday shopping.

Thinking of framing a photo for your mom or dad? Buy this wireless gold photo printer on sale for $120 off its normal price.

Canon Pixma MG7720 Gold Wireless, $79.99 (originally $199.99), available at Canon.

Get all your holiday reminders on your wrist. Fossil's smartwatches (and the entire site) will be 25% off from Friday through Monday.

Fossil Q Wander Touchscreen Light Brown Leather Smartwatch, $221.25 (originally $295), available at Fossil.

Speck's Black Friday deals kick off today, with 20% off the brand's popular Presidio cases, 30% off Candyshell Clear and MacBook cases, and 40% off everything else.

Those deals will end on Thanksgiving and pick up again on Black Friday, when they'll run from midnight to 11:59 p.m.

Speck Presidio Inked iPhone 7 Case, $35.96 (originally $44.95), Available at Speck Products.

Watch Gilmore Girls in full, wide-screen glory with this LG Oled TV.

LG B6 Oled 4K HDR Smart TV 55", $1,799.99 (originally $1,999.99), available at LG.

Tech21 will have 30% off everything on Friday, meaning that you can finally get the stylish protection your Macbook or new iPhone 7 need.

Tech21 Impact Snap Case, $66.97 (originally $99.95), available at Tech21.

Log in to the Expedia app on Black Friday to find savings of up to 75% on hotels in destinations like Paris, New York, Punta Cana, Las Vegas, and Cancun.

Beginning on Black Friday and running through Cyber Monday, you can get up to $430 off Microsoft's Surface Book i5 and Surface Pro 4. The touchscreen tablet is one of the lightest out there and perfect for holiday travel.

Microsoft Surface Pro 4, $570 (originally $999) available at Microsoft.

Looking to clean house? Sam's Club has a wide range of in-store and online sales (starting at 7 a.m. Friday and running through Sunday), but one of the best is this deal on the Roomba.

iRobot Roomba 665 Robot Vacuum, $269.98 (originally $339.98), available at Sam's Club.

Also up for grabs at Sam's Club: Fitbit's more stylish wearable, the Alta.

Fitbit Alta Bundle, $99.86 (originally $129.86), available at Sam's Club.

If there was ever a time to give your apartment a retro makeover, that time is now. On Black Friday, Crosley is offering 30% off the entire site (excluding vinyl and jukeboxes). Time to stock up on John Hughes-esque phones and radios.

Crosley Radio Ranchero, $69.96 (originally $99.95), available at Crosley.

Photo: Courtesy Crosley.

Starting today and running through December 2, select styles of Huawei's elegant smartwatches will be on sale for $200 off their normal price.

Huawei Watch, $249-349 (originally $449-549), available at Google Store.

Plan ahead for some relaxation in the new year. Head to Orbitz.com on Black Friday to get 17% off a standalone hotel booking using the code BLACKFRIDAY17.

Start prepping for your New Year's party with the wireless UE Boom 2 speaker, which is $70 off at T-Mobile between November 24 and 27.

UE Boom 2, $129.99 (originally $199.99), available at T-Mobile.

If you're looking to invest in a high-quality TV, Samsung's curved version is already on sale for $2,200 less than its normal price.

Samsung 65" Class KS8500 Curved 4K SUHD TV, $1,599.99 (originally $3,799.99), available at Samsung.

This little guy will come in handy this season when you're at work, but really need to clean the apartment before having friends over. Luckily, the wireless vacuum will be $200 off at Samsung starting Thanksgiving day.

Samsung POWERbot Wi-Fi Robot Vacuum, $599.99 (originally $799.99), available at Samsung.

A laptop that's less than your Netflix subscription? Yes, please. This Dell version, which is a Black Friday doorbuster, is a blink-and-you'll-miss-it kind of sale.

Dell Inspiron 11 3000, $99.99 (originally $199.99), available at Dell.

KitchenAid stand mixers are a baker's equivalent of the holy grail, but they rarely go on sale. Right now you can get one for $200 off during Best Buy's Beat the Black Friday Rush sale. Just send me some cookies (chocolate chip, please) after you've taken advantage of this deal.

KitchenAid Ultra Power Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, $259.99 (usually $399.99) available at Best Buy.

Power red for a power woman — and the holidays, of course. Save $110 now on this pair of wireless headphones from Sony.

Sony Extra Bass Wireless Over-the-Ear Headphones, $89.99 (originally $199.99), available at Best Buy.

This smart TV is already on sale for $900 less than its usual listing price. We believe that's the definition of a steal.

Samsung 50" Class J6200 Full LED Smart TV, $399.99 (originally $1,299), available at Samsung.

Fab will have 20% off of select items on Black Friday, including this turntable built into a leather briefcase. Bring on the vinyl.

Elyxr Revolution Turntable, $88 (originally $109.99), available at Fab.

Your chances of getting an iPhone 7 on sale are slim to none, even on Black Friday. But you can get this insanely good deal on an iPhone 6 Plus.

Apple iPhone 6Plus 16GB 4G LTE Prepaid Smartphone, $399 (originally $649), available at Walmart.

No headphone jack? No problem. Get these wireless Beats for almost $70 off in Walmart's Pre-Black Friday sale.

Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones, $230 (originally $299.95), available at Walmart.

At 20% off, this electric popcorn maker is worth every kernel.

Throwback Stir Stick Popcorn Maker, $55.96 (originally $69.95), available at Williams-Sonoma.

Photo: Courtesy Williams Sonoma.

A slow cooker is a gift from the gods around the holidays. This year, it's also a gift from Williams-Sonoma, where many, including this All-Clad version, are listed for up to 50% off.

All-Clad Deluxe Slow Cooker, $199.95 (originally $400), available at Williams-Sonoma.

The holiday season is one of the most exhausting times of the year — presents, cards, travel! Get a boost from Nespresso, which has many machines for up to 20% off this Black Friday.

Nespresso Evoluo Coffee & Espresso Maker, $159.96 (originally $199.95), available at Williams-Sonoma.

Amazon is extending Black Friday to last until December 22 this year (deals started on November 16). Sales will change by day and get especially good from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday. One that you can look forward to? $40 off of Amazon Echo, the popular, Alexa-controlled speaker.

Amazon Echo, $139.99 (originally $179.99), available at Amazon.

Also included in Amazon's marathon-long Black Friday: Fujifilm's popular instant camera. These will be a must for New Year's, so if you're not putting one on your holiday wish list, now's the time to buy.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 26 + Film Bundle, $49.99 (originally $69.99), available at Amazon.

This HD touchscreen tablet is $300 off and comes with a keyboard, pen, and dock with additional USB ports.

Huawei MateBook + Accessory Bundle , $399-1,699 (originally $699-1,999), available at Microsoft.

Photo: Courtesy Microsoft.

Target's doorbuster deals will kick off on Thanksgiving day, when you can save on TVs, Powerbeats, and this Fitbit Charge. Although the timing is unfortunate — Thanksgiving is not the day to be thinking about fitness-tracking — it's still a good buy.

FitBit Charge HR, $89.95 (originally $129.95), available at Target.

Don't have room for a TV? Invest in much smaller, but just as useful, projector. This one from Miroir is $100 off at Best Buy. Put that money towards cocktails and snacks on movie night, instead.

Miroir Element DLP Projector, $99.99 (originally $199.99), available at Best Buy.

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Lin-Manuel Miranda Will Narrate Hamilton-Themed Episode Of Drunk History

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The story of Alexander Hamilton is getting the Drunk History treatment by none other than Hamilton: An American Musical creator and writer Lin-Manuel Miranda. In a recently released clip of the show, you can watch a slightly hammered (but much more well-spoken than most of the drunk comedians featured on the show) Miranda tells the story of America's first secretary of the treasury.

While Miranda doesn't break into any of Hamilton 's songs in the preview, he does get into dropping some F-bombs.

The clip also reveals that Alia Shawkat plays Hamilton, while Aubrey Plaza plays his foe (and eventual killer), Aaron Burr. Plaza's Burr is handy with a musket and knife, killing a lot of British dudes in the Revolutionary War. Shawkat gives a big fuck you to Princeton when the college won't let Hamilton graduate in two years. And George Washington apparently plays Hamilton's ambition like a fiddle.

Check out the preview clip, below, and set a calendar reminder to check it out on Comedy Central next Tuesday, November 29, at 10:30 p.m. EST.

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These Are The BEST Black Friday Beauty Sales

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Ridiculous deals on TVs, stampedes and fights, lines just to get through the doors at Sephora — there's a lot to love and hate about Black Friday. When all is said, it's one of the only times of the year when practically everything on your wish list is on sale. But if the thought of store-hopping IRL freaks you out — that tryptophan-and-eggnog hangover is rough — you have our full permission to never get off the couch.

There are a lot of things we're eyeing in the beauty sphere. Thankfully, most of America isn't setting an alarm for 4 a.m. just to score a lip gloss. (That's not to say you shouldn't be, but the more people distracted by electronics, the more makeup for us.) What stuff have we been watching? Click through the slides, ahead, for a peek at our picks. May the odds be in your favor.

Kat Von D

We love Kat Von D's makeup and we're using this sale as an excuse to really stock up. The brand is offering three bundles of the popular Studded Kiss Lipsticks for $44 each (a $63 value). For every $100 purchase, customers will also receive a vegan leather makeup bag filled with minis of the brand's iconic products, including the brand's Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Lolita, Studded Kiss Lipstick in Lovecraft, and Tattoo Liner.

Kat Von D Studded Kiss Trio in Next-Level Nudes, $44, available at Kat Von D.

Ulta Beauty

Ulta Beauty is offering some major Black Friday steals starting tomorrow. A slew of A+ beauty finds, including Urban Decay's eye primer, will be up for grabs at ridiculous discounts. You can bet we'll be stocking up.

Urban Decay Primer Potion, $20, available at Ulta Beauty.

Juara

This scrub from Juara employs two types of exfoliation — chemical (thanks to fruit enzymes) and physical (due to jojoba and bamboo beads) — to gently slough off dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin. The brand will be offering a buy two, get one free deal (plus free shipping) on Cyber Monday.

Juara Radiance Enzyme Scrub, $38, available at Juara.

First Aid Beauty

From November 27 to 29, use the code FAB30 to receive 30% off your purchase on First Aid Beauty's website (excluding kits and holiday sets). Our pick? This no-frills sleeping mask that will come in handy during the cold months ahead.

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Hydra-Firm Sleeping Cream, $38, available at Sephora.

Votre Vu

On Cyber Monday, everything on Votre Vu's website will be 20% off, including this creamy eyeliner. Plus, any orders over $75 will receive a full-sized Eiffel Power mascara. Win-win!

Votru Vu Le Joli Crayon Soft Eyeliner, $23, available at Votre Vu.

Chantecaille

From Black Friday through Cyber Monday, enjoy 20% everything on Chantecaille's website. Select items, including this finely-milled portable loose powder, will be 30% off.

Chantecaille Poudre Haute Protection Naturelle, $72, available at Chantecaille.

Josie Maran

Before the temps go from cold to bone-chilling cold, stock up on luxurious moisturizers like this whipped body butter from Josie Maran. Lucky for you, the product (along with all the others on the brand's website) is 25% off from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter, $35, available at Josie Maran.

Leaders

From November 25 to the 28, skin-care brand Leaders is offering 50% off everything on the brand's website using the code BFCM50. New to the brand? We suggest grabbing a few sheet masks. This one contains coconut extract and vitamin E to soothe and hydrate skin.

Leaders Carribbean Coconut Calming Mask, $6, available at Leaders.

ColourPop

A pigmented liquid lipstick is a makeup staple and ColourPop makes some of our favorites. Lucky for you, the brand is offering 20% off all liquid lipsticks on Black Friday. It has even brought back this limited edition black shade, appropriated named Friday.

ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in Friday, $6, available at ColourPop.

Clarisonic

If you've been on the fence about buying a Clarisonic, this is the time to just go for it. The brand is offering 20% off all devices and a free engraving with the promo code SHOPEARLY on November 24 and 25. If you're willing to wait a little longer, though, the brand will be upping its discount to 25% off with the code CYBERMON on the 28 and 29.

Clarisonic Mia 2, $169, available at Clarisonic.

Foreo

The Foreo Luna is another excellent cleansing device — it oscillates to remove dirt and grime from your skin. Hop on over to the brand's site between November 24 and 28 to receive 25% off site-wide.

Foreo Luna 2, $199, available at Foreo.

W3ll People

Eco-chic beauty brand W3ll People is offering 25% off its full-size products. Stock up on as many powders, lipsticks, and glosses as your heart desires.

W3ll People Bio Brightener Invisible Powder, $21.99 available at W3ll People.

GHD

When it comes to high-quality heat tools, GHD is in the hall of fame. This straightener is one of the best we've tried, because its ceramic plates smooth our hair without frying it. From November 21 through the 28, you'll be able to snag this iron (and everything else on the site) for 25% off.

GHD Platinum, $249, available at GHD.

CoverFX

These lightweight drops make it easy to create your own custom highlighting and bronzing shades. On Black Friday, CoverFX will be selling a gift set containing every hue of the brand's Custom Enhancer Drops for 25% off.

CoverFX Glow Getter Set, $189, available at CoverFX.

Context

Nourish your skin and your bank account with 30% off all Context products with the promo code FRIDAY30.

Context Oil-Free Daily Moisturizer SPF 15, $40, available at Context.

Soap & Glory

British-import Soap & Glory makes some of our favorite makeup and body-care items. The brand is offering a buy one, get one 50% off deal from November 24 through the 26 at Target. Not sure what to grab? We're partial to this subtle highlighting powder.

Soap and Glory Glow All Out, $15, available at Target.

Dermaflash

As bonkers as it may sound, shaving your face can do wonders for your skin. Not only does it eliminate any unwanted peach fuzz, it provides deep exfoliation. But don't use your razor; use this fancy at-home dermaplaning tool. For a whole month (Black Friday through December 25), it's 20% off.

DermaFlash Facial Exfoliating Device, $189, available at Dermaflash.

Essence

Sure, Essence is already insanely affordable, but we aren't complaining about the brand's 50% off site-wide sale for Black Friday.

Essence Pure Nude Highlighter, $4.49, available at Essence.

The Seaweed Bath Co.

We're huge fans of The Seaweed Bath Co.'s hydrating body washes and shampoos. Snag them for 20% off site-wide from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

The Seaweed Bath Co. Eucalyptus & Peppermint Body Wash, $12.99, available at The Seaweed Bath Co.

Michael Todd

Shoppers can use the codes BFY40 on Black Friday and CYB40 on Cyber Monday to receive 40% anything online at Michael Todd. Our suggestion? This lightweight cleansing oil, which whisks away stubborn eye makeup in a matter of seconds.

Michael Todd Grape Seed Cleansing Oil, $28, available at Michael Todd.

BeautyKind

BeautyKind, a retailer that allows consumers to donate 5% of their purchases to a charity of their choice, is offering this three-piece kit from Laura Geller for 74% off on Black Friday.

Laura Geller Style Eyes 3 Piece Kit, $18, available at BeautyKind.

NARS

From November 24 through 29, everything on the NARS website is 20% off. We suggest snagging a tube of the brand's new Velvet Lip Glide — an opaque liquid lipstick with a comfortable, demi-matte finish.

NARS Velvet Lip Glide, $26, available at NARS.

Jack Black

Jack Black may be a skin-care brand associated with men, but we (a team of female editors) adore the products. This kit contains a face cleanser, oil-free moisturizer, and lip balm — all for just $12 at Ulta Beauty from November 25 through the 28.

Jack Black Best Of Jack, $12, available at Ulta Beauty.

Julep

As part of the brand's Cyber Monday sale promotions, everything on Julep's website will be 50% off — including this trio of matte liquid lipsticks.

Julep Kisses From Wonderland Matte Lip Trio, $30, available at Julep.

Palladio

From Black Friday through Cyber Monday, everything on Palladio's website is 25% off using the code BLACKFRIDAY2016. That means you can snag this pigmented blush for just $5.25.

Palladio Matte Blush, $7, available at at Palladio.

MAKE

Between November 25 and 30, MAKE is offering 25% off anything on the brand's website, including this vibrant, matte-red lipstick.

MAKE Matte Lipstick, $25, available at MAKE.

Ouidad

Want to get a head start on your holiday shopping? All gift sets from hair-care brand Ouidad are 50% off on Cyber Monday.

Ouidad Curl Essentials Trial Set, $36, available at Ouidad.

Soko Glam

Not only is Korean retailer Soko Glam offering 30% off all purchases (excluding sets) from November 24 through Cyber Monday, all items from Missha are currently 40% off through November 30. If you've never tried cushion foundation before, what are you waiting for?

Missha Signature Essence Cushion, $35, available at Soko Glam.

Clinique

This five-piece set from Clinique is just $25 at Nordstrom on Black Friday.

Clinique Cherry On Top Set, $25, available at Nordstrom.

Carmex

Winter is coming, so stock up on lip balm. Carmex is offering a two-for-$1 deal from November 24 through 26.

Carmex Classic Lip Balm, $1.59, available at Walgreens.

S.W. Basics

This rich moisturizer contains four oils — all of which you can pronounce. And it, along with all the other options on S.W. Basics' website, is 20% off from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

S.W. Basics Oil Serum, $29, available at S.W. Basics.

MCMC Fragrances

This tobacco, vanilla, and amber candle will help you regain your chill after stressful family gatherings. Not into warm, musky scents? MCMC Fragrance's entire candle collection is 20% off from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

MCMC Fragrances Hunter Candle, $48, available at MCMC Fragrances.

Borghese

If you're on the hunt for a new body product to add to your Sunday-night pampering ritual, Borghese has a ton of options that are 40% off during Black Friday weekend and 50% off on Cyber Monday from noon to 3 p.m. EST.

Borghese Sali Esfoliante Salt Scrub, $49, available at Borghese.

Pai

Pai, the brand behind one of our favorite gentle exfoliators, is offering 25% off all products (excluding holiday sets) during Black Friday weekend.

Pai Kakui & Jojoba Bead Skin Brightening Exfoliator, $44, available at Pai.

Birchbox

Birchbox subscribers and Ace members will receive 15% and 20% off, respectively, using the codes 15FORSUBS and 20FORACES. Not a subscriber? You can still receive 10% off using the code 10FORALL.

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentré, $16, available at Birchbox.

Sarah Potempa

Ever wondered what a Swarovski-encrusted curling iron looks like? You're lookin' at it. This limited-edition version of the iconic Beachwaver is available for a limited time at Nordstrom for $199 (a $250 value) from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

Sarah Potempa Limited Edition Beachwaver, $199, available at Nordstrom.

Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!

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How Celebs Celebrated Thanksgiving

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The supermarkets are disaster zones, the Macy's parade balloons are being inflated, you've gotten 45 calls from your parents about who's bringing what to dinner — yep, Thanksgiving Day is almost here. If you believe their social media posts this week, things aren't that much different for many celebrities.

Okay, well, they may be jetting home from far-off lands in first class, but they are also doing so on the busiest travel week of the year. Some of them are taking time off fabulous movie shoots in order to get that cranberry sauce just right. Or they're prepping a dish to bring to Martha Stewart's house instead of their aunt's in the suburbs. Still, this is one of those holidays that can bring the rich and famous down to our level — if they're also intent on honoring the whole "thanks" part of the day.

So join us all day as we check in to see how Chrissy Teigen is smoking her turkey. Enjoy the juxtaposition of Chelsea Handler reminding us of the importance of booze and Chelsea Clinton teaching her children about gratitude. While this year's Thanksgiving has many people tied up in anxious knots, these celebs' excitement might just be contagious enough to put us in the right frame of mind.

"Fire up the ovens, y’all! It's turkey time!!!," Reese Witherspoon wrote, probably with a Southern accent.

Photo: @reesewitherspoon.

Thanksgiving squad goals (or cuddles) from Martha Hunt and Taylor Swift.

Photo: @marthahunt.

Now that's a Thanksgiving family portrait, courtesy of Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan Tatum.

Photo: @jennaldewan.

"Oh, that time I roasted a pretty perfect Thanksgiving turkey! The question is, can I do it again?," wonders Meghan Markle.

Photo: @meghanmarkle.

"When you know you bout to get some bomb ass food as soon as you land," says jetsetter Zendaya.

Photo: @zendaya.

Three is the magic number this Thanksgiving for Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton.

Photo: @gwenstefani.

Naomi Watts, who is a proponent of knowing her limits, sends her thanks to this Thanksgiving professional.

Photo: @namoiwatts.

The Bachelor 's most recent couple says, "#HappyThanksgiving from the cutest turkeys in town!"

Photo: @benandlaurentv.

"Braids n babies," Hailey Baldwin says, summing up her Thanksgiving.

Photo: @haileybaldwin.

"Ready to feast," Millie Bobby Brown said, followed by #elishangry.

Photo: @milliebobby_brown.

"Happy Thanksgiving lovers! I'm so thankful for all of you ❤️ I thought this was fitting since we're celebrating at the beach," Ashley Tisdale wrote in the sand.

Photo: @ashleytisadle.

"It's not a holiday without these gems," says Mandy Moore.

Photo: @mandymooremm.

"When friends become family..." Gabrielle Union writes.

Photo: @gabunion.

Once a Chanel, always a Chanel — even on Thanksgiving, right Emma Roberts?

Photo: @emmaroberts.

"Getting ready for Thanks G with some wrapping paper scraps, old ribbon and the help of a 12 year old Gratitude elf and letters sketched by @clownache," Lena Dunham wrote. "We were pretty proud when we finished this, and tomorrow at @jennikonner 's house everyone will be able to hang their own message of gratitude from the banner. Never been much for festive gestures, but if there were ever a year...tomorrow, glitter on gourds!"

Photo: @lenadunham.

"Happy thanksgiving!!!!!," Ansel Elgort writes with enthusiasm.

Photo: @anselelgort.

"Happy Thanksgiving everyone!! I always love getting together with my family. Spending time with my grandma and new niece baby Lux," says Audrina Patridge.

Photo: @audrinapatridge.

Katie Holmes knows Thanksgiving happens at wine o'clock.

Photo: @katieholmes212.

Haylie Duff shares why she and the Duff family are giving thanks.

Photo: @haylieduff.

Miranda Kerr gives us a look into her Thanksgiving kitchen.

Photo: @mirandakerr.

No one knows pie like Mariah Carey knows pie.

Photo: @mariahcarey.

"Here is to reunions, togetherness, family, and love love love. Happy Thanksgiving eve, everyone," Gwyneth Paltrow wrote, signing it with love.

Photo: @gwynethpaltrow.

"Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!," Ashley Benson says from France.

Photo: @itsashbenzo.

"Who else will be dressing down for Thanksgiving?" Eva Longoria wants to know.

Photo: @evalongoria.

Sofia Vergara and her hubby, Joe Manganiello, really know how to turkey around.

Photo: @sofiavergara.

Salma Hayek wrote, "Thank you for becoming part of my #instagram family."

Photo: @salmahayek.

Why weren't we invited?!

Photo: via @snoopdogg.

"#GeorgiaSeacrest is getting her pre-thanksgiving workouts in!" writes Ryan Seacrest.

Photo: via @ryanseacrest.

"Brace yourselves, politics with your family at Thanksgiving is coming," wrote Zach Braff.

Photo: via @zachbraff/HBO.

Trisha Yearwood keeps it sweet and simple.

Photo: Via @trishayearwood.

Not surprisingly, Reese Witherspoon began her prep work early.

Photo: via @rwitherspoon.

"Bye Australia you were so pretty! But it's time to see my pup and eat myself into oblivion for thanksgiving," wrote Lucy Hale.

Photo: via @lucyhale.

"Bye LA. homeward bound," wrote Karlie Kloss.

Photo: via @karliekloss.

Raise your hand if you're anticipating the same.

Photo: via @JoeBudden.

Chrissy's fave is apparently this scalloped potato dish.

Photo: via @chrissyteigen.

This is genius.

Photo: via @chrissyteigen.

A smoked turkey couldn't possibly suck.

Photo: via @chrissyteigen.

Positive thinking, courtesy of the Chainsmokers.

Photo: via @thechainsmokers.

Kelly and Sharon Osbourne have skipped Thanksgiving and gone straight to Christmas, it seems.

Photo: via @kellyosbourne.

If all else fails, there's Chelsea Handler's solution. (Note: We have no idea if she is actually talking about Thanksgiving here.)

Photo: via @chelseahandler.

If the Clintons can focus on gratitude this weekend, so can we.

Photo: via @ChelseaClinton.

"Hope you have a different kind of cornucopia this," Elizabeth Banks joked from the Hunger Games set.

Photo: @elizabethbanks

Jennifer Hudson is an extra polite Thanksgiving hostess. "I didn't want no hair to get in the food , so I put it up!" she posted about her holiday hair mini-makeover.

Photo: @iamjhud

Along with Thanksgiving snaps and Instagram stories, Kate Hudson shared this adorable mother-daughter pic. Her simple, but perfect caption: "Grateful."

Photo: @katehudson

This is Kylie Jenner's "happy Thanksgiving" face, obviously.

Photo: @kyliejenner

"Happy Thanksgiving! Here’s a photo of some of the things I’m most thankful for," Ellen DeGeneres wrote, insta-melting our hearts.

Photo: @theellenshow

"Happy tday! Thanks Deb and Tim and I want to say...Ben??? Is it Ben?" Amy Schumer joked per usual, pretending to forget her boyfriend's name.

Photo: @amyschumer

If Mimi says pineapple is a Thanksgiving food, who are we to argue?

Photo: @mariahcarey

This Thanksgiving, Oprah was living her best life and sending holiday blessings from South Africa.

Photo: @oprah

"Sitting here wanting to let you know how grateful I am for YOU," Alicia Keyes captioned a heartfelt Thanksgiving message to fans.

Photo: @aliciakeys

Chelsea Handler opted for a Friendsgiving abroad. "This is my bestie in London," Handler wrote. "She makes my life so much better and always picks me up when I've fallen. I lub you, Sophie."

Photo: @chelseahandler

Ava Duvernay spread the Thanksgiving love with an Instagram story celebrating her grandmother and her holiday cooking.

Photo: @directher

In Katy Perry's Thanksgiving Instagram Story, she goofs off with her family while wearing some comfy, coordinating pajamas. We're loving the Perry family style.

Funny girl Jessica Williams' Thanksgiving Instagram story was all casseroles and Capri Sun. Approve.

Photo: @msjwilly

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Emirates Is Having A MASSIVE Sale This Very Minute

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If you've decided to skip the long lines and crazy crowds of Black Friday shopping this year, first of all, we don't blame you. But, second and way more important, that doesn't mean you can't still find an amazing deal on a great gift. Not just a great gift, but perhaps the best gift: travel.

Emirates Airlines, which rarely has major sales, is offering two-for-one airfare on round-trip tickets from all 11 American gateways. That means you and a companion can take a fabulous adventure on one of the most luxurious airlines in the world for half of what it would ordinarily cost you.

The deal applies to travel between January 9 and October 14, 2017. Airfare starts as low as $899 for two round-trip economy tickets to Milan. You could also explore Dubai for just $1,249. Other destinations include Bangkok, Cape Town, Manila, Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, and many more.

To take advantage of the two-for-one rates, head to Emirates' website right now, and again starting at 12:01 EST on Cyber Monday (November 28), when additional destinations and deals will be added. You'll have 72 hours from the start of both Black Friday and Cyber Monday to book, so act fast.

Is there any better holiday activity than making plans to see the world without actually having to get off the couch? Nope.

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R29 Binge Club: Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life Recaps, Episodes 1-4

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After nearly a decade the Gilmore Girls are officially back. We certainly have a lot of catching up to do. So make some coffee, coffee, coffee and prepare yourself for six hours of fast-talking fun with Lorelai, Rory and Emily Gilmore.

Episode 1: “Winter”

The first thing we hear Lorelai say in the revival is the first thing we ever heard Lorelai say while fixin' for some coffee: “Please, Luke. Please, please, please!” This trip down memory lane launches us into a montage of the show’s greatest auditory moments: “Copper boom!” Luke is all in. “Oy with the poodles already.” It’s not Carole King, but Sam Phillips’ la la la’s that lull us out of this nostalgic dream and back to Stars Hollow where, in 2016, the town seems especially crowded. People are taking selfies by the gazebo with their iPhones that weren’t even available the last time we visited the town.

Behind that selfie-taking couple sits Lorelai holding a Luke’s to-go coffee cup, taking in the beauty of the snow before Rory joins her. “That’s the way you look when you get off a plane?” Lorelai asks. “That’s how you say hello?" Rory responds. And we’re off to the races again.

Lorelai launches into a caffeine-fueled rant that proves she hasn’t lost it — and neither has creator/writer Amy Sherman-Palladino. We’re not even two minutes in and Lorelai’s already made an Anne Hathaway Les Mis joke and a Goop reference, as in: Rory has been “Gooped,” a verb meaning she’s been brainwashed by Gwyneth Paltrow and her $15,000 sex toys. The two haven’t seen each other in a while. “It feels like years,” Rory says, but as we already can see, it’s like riding a bike with these two.

Rory’s in town for one day before grabbing the red-eye to London for work and boy, do they have a lot to do. She needs a town tour — or, more accurately, we do — which includes a walk and talk that lets us know Al’s Pancake World won (again) for best Christmas decorations thanks to an eggplant Jesus. Taylor Doose wants the town to go full-on sewer instead of individual septic tanks. And Rory wants a phone that works in Stars Hollow. Lorelai just wants to stop walking because she’s hit her steps. Since when does she care about something silly like her health?

This walk through town gives us a brief look at all the Stars Hollowians we love. Miss Patty is still teaching dance. Lane is stressing out over Zack getting a promotion at a job where he has to wear a tie. “I tell him he looks like a young Leonard Cohen, but he actually just looks like his dad,” she tells Rory. Kirk has started a new ride-share company that he’s calling “Ooober.” He also has a pet pig named Petal, given to him by the town after he and Lulu said they were thinking of having a baby. “We figured it bought us a couple of years,” Lorelai explains to Rory.

Sherman-Palladino warned everyone that Stars Hollow will look a little different, but so far everything pretty much looks the same, including Lorelai’s house. Now it just includes Luke, who is excitedly waiting to see Rory, “the New Yorker writer.” “It was only one Talk Of The Town piece,” Rory explains, but it’s already clear she hasn’t been slacking in the years since she left to join some guy named Barack Obama on the presidential campaign trail. Luke is a proud dad, gushing over the piece, which is as sweet as those mini-doughnuts he does not want Rory eating before dinner.

Luckily, the two can camp out in Rory’s room, which is now full of the boxes that used to fill her Brooklyn apartment. This is Rory’s time to follow the story and not worry about where she calls home. Though, she is worried about where her underwear and her lucky outfit went. As Lorelai points out though, any outfit without underwear is likely a lucky outfit.

Rory needs this particular outfit that makes her feel like Diane Sawyer because she’s meeting with Conde Nast. But, first she has to figure out why Paul is here. You know, Paul, Rory’s boyfriend. Let’s talk about Paul for a second, shall we? He’s there for a dinner Rory invited him to but totally forgot about. He’s brought flowers and wears a sport coat and shares fun facts about Peru and he’s a rather awkward kisser. Let’s just call it like we see it, this guy is not right for her. Rory knows it, Lorelai knows it, we know it, but unfortunately, Paul doesn’t seem to know it yet. Paul is the Ann Hog of this series. “Who?” is all Lorelai can muster about the guy Rory’s been dating for two years. Two. Years.

What is hard to forget is Lorelai’s taste in TV, which includes Lifetime Original Movies that she watches to keep from having dirty bathroom dreams. This night, it’s actually Rory’s stress tap dancing that wakes her up. What is clear is Rory’s job is making her a bit jittery and the late-night coffee breaks aren’t helping. Lorelai is thinking about her mortality and wondering if she should go on a cruise. Rory asks exactly what we’re all thinking, D oes this have to do with Richard? Lorelai isn’t ready to talk about it and all we get is a sheepish “maybe” and a toast to absent friends

With a shot of Luke’s new sign outlawing texting and man buns it’s a new day. One that reveals the diner has Wi-Fi and a new menu, complete with Rory’s New Yorker story, and that Luke lives with Lorelai. Over at the Dragonfly Inn, Michel is filling us in on his husband, who now, after five years, has decided he wants children. We also find out that their chef-less kitchen is hosting pop-ups. Lorelai isn’t happy about the food truck guy Roy Choi (played by real life food truck guy Roy Choi.) Lorelai likes what she likes, and what she likes is Sookie in the kitchen. Not April Bloomfield, not Alice Waters, and definitely not Anthony Bourdain, who had the gall to park in Sookie’s spot.

Sookie’s been gone a year now after saying she needed a “six month sabbatical” to clear her head, and Michel, for one, feels abandoned. Sookie’s up in the woods doing something Lorelai can’t really explain, but sounds very farm-to-table. Let’s put a pin in the Sookie talk though because Lorelai’s beloved jeep is in the shop and she needs to get to Hartford. Guess who needs an Ooober?

After all these years and maids, Lorelai still doesn’t want to deal with Emily alone, who is too happy to see Rory to nitpick Lorelai or her maid Berta, whose family is living with her. Emily, like everyone else, doesn’t remember Rory’s boyfriend, Egg or Paul or whatever his name is. Oh, and she also has a full wall portrait of Richard hanging in the sitting room. It’s to match his presence, Emily says, but Lorelai believes she gave the painter the wrong measurements, which leads us to the first fight of the revival. Cue all the Lord Of The Rings references and Emily storming out of the room. So no, Emily and Lorelai’s relationship is not exactly in a better place and there’s a reason why

We learn this in a flashback from Richard’s funeral four months earlier. It’s also where we see Jason Stiles and learn that Richard’s death was sudden, Lorelai’s happy, and she has no good memories to share about her dad. “You have nothing but contempt for this family,” Emily tells her in the kitchen after Lorelai shares a story of Richard leaving her in a steamer trunk. “You blow through life like a natural disaster knocking down everything and everyone in your path. I wonder if Luke knew what he was getting into with you.”

Pictured: Lorelai and Rory stopping for a bite to eat at Luke's (Scott Patterson).Photo: Saeed Adyani/Netflix.

Here it seems as if Emily is speaking directly to all those fans who think Lorelai is actually the worst, even providing some ammo for that debate. Emily asks Lorelai if she ever discussed having children with Luke, but Emily answers for her: No, Lorelai Gilmore doesn’t care about anyone but herself. “God help you if she thinks you wronged her,” Emily says. “She will hold on to that grudge forever just waiting for that moment to get back at you.”

Then we’re back in Emily’s present day living room where Lorelai admits that was the last time they spoke. But tonight, with an Ooober-less Kirk at the table, the Gilmore girls will eat and talk about Rory’s Jack Kerouac lifestyle. Not even an awkward Luke — who’s the chauffeur, not a guest at this dinner — will keep Emily from wondering how a 32-year-old woman with a college degree could live such an Inside Llewyn Davis existence. Kudos on that reference, Emily. Rory doesn’t take this criticism to heart, but lets Emily know she’s busier than she’s ever been and knows what she’s doing. Do you really though, Rory?

From one smart daughter to another, we get our first mention of April, who is off at MIT and the only kid who still writes letters. It’s also the perfect segue for Lorelai to ask Luke if he ever wanted a “fresh kid.” It’s a question that seems a little late in the game for these two. Lorelai, admitting that the Twickham house (season 5) was the last time Luke and her talked about kids, certainly doesn’t give me any added confidence in their communication skills.

It’s then that Luke tells Lorelai, “Well, nobody gets to have everything they want in life. All in all, I think I did pretty good.” Luke isn’t sad to admit that, but yet, there is something sad about it and Lorelai knows it. You can see it on her face. Or, maybe it’s that there’s something very adult about that statement. The Gilmores have grown up and even in the magical Stars Hollow dreams don’t always come true. Sometimes you have to settle for pretty good. I feel kind of sad even writing that.

With babies on the brain Lorelai and Luke go shopping for surrogates, since he doesn’t want to adopt. (“I don’t want to go to Bangladesh for a baby. I don’t want to go to Woodbury for a light bulb.”) It’s clear Emily’s words have struck a nerve and Lorelai is now trying to overcompensate for all the things she believes Luke didn’t have because of her. This includes a baby and a picture window.

The trip to find a surrogate leads us to Paris Geller. She has her name on the door at Dynasty Makers, the largest surrogacy clinic in the Western hemisphere. Paris is still Paris, but now she’s in charge of people’s babies and for Lorelai, she’s not going to let any “bottle service bimbo” carry her child — or Neil Patrick Harris’ for that matter. Luke is just really uncomfortable with this whole thing and gives the whole baby thing a very fertile “no.”

In jolly ol’ London, Rory is having a much more positive lunch with a fellow journalist Naomi Shropshire ( ER ’s Alex Kingston), who is looking for someone to help her write her memoir. Rory comes out of this meeting excited and ready to tell the world, but for now she’s spilling her guts to Logan Huntzberger. Gone are the turtlenecks of his college days. This Logan is way more chic with no suit of armor in sight. The kiss they share is intriguing, could it be that she’s secretly dating her ex without her mom knowing?

Rory sent some boxes there, hinting it’s pretty serious. But she also questions if it’s okay to look in his closet in case there’s some other woman’s stuff there too. These two are back to their early college days of just dating, no strings attached. “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” Rory says in a way that almost makes me believe her. Almost.

Back at Luke’s the Wi-Fi password has been changed (again), but turns out that ever-changing Wi-Fi password is bogus. We should have known Luke didn’t want people checking their Facebook in his diner. It’s Taylor who lets the cat out of the bag and wins Luke over in the process. Their truce may be in the name of a town septic tank, but it’s still kind of sweet. What’s not so sweet is Paris letting us know Doyle and her have called it quits because he’s now a screenwriter who wears jeans and flies out to the coast. “As if this isn’t a coast,” Paris says before making it clear she’s going to kill him in court despite him being the father of her kids. Yes, plural.

Rory is now at Lane’s, which looks a lot like Sookie’s place except with drums. Rory’s going through her boxes to find that lucky outfit of hers. An hour and 15 minutes into the episode and still no sign of it. But, we’ve found Brian, Gil and Zack, who looks like a real dad.

Oh, and Rory is definitely not telling Lorelai about Logan, but she is trying to get her mom to talk to Emily after a fight. “Have you ever imagined a grandma without a grandpa?” Rory asks. In the span of that quick chat, Rory’s Conde Nast meeting gets rescheduled and Paul, oh Paul, is trying to get in contact with her. Let’s all hope she breaks up with him before spring.

Lorelai takes Rory’s advice and goes to visit a jean-wearing Emily, who seems to be having an everything must go sale. Emily is taking a page from Marie Kondo’s book and decluttering. She’s letting go of anything that doesn’t bring her joy, which, turns out, is nearly everything she owns. After taking off those jeans, what Lorelai really wants is for Emily to mourn, really mourn. “I don’t know how to do this,” Emily says. “Live my life.”

What we’re quickly learning is none of the Gilmores do right now. Lorelai is with Luke, who she’s not married to. Despite telling her mom she’s practically married, Emily says they’re just “roommates” and couldn’t possibly understand losing a husband of 50 years. Lorelai lets that one go and encourages her mom to go to therapy. It’s a sincere ask and part of Lorelai’s attempt to be better. She’s learning to compromise, which let’s face it, she’s very bad at. She’s still passive aggressively trying to keep the surrogate talk going despite Luke saying no. This is as surprising as hearing Kirk’s Ooober business got a cease and desist from Uber, which it did.

The nicest thing to come out of this rather harsh winter is Emily thanking Lorelai for getting her into therapy. For the very first time Emily took Lorelai’s advice and that is the only explanation for her unknowingly agreeing to go to therapy with her mother. This should be, um, fun?

Pictured: Lorelai and Emily (Kelly Bishop) actually try working things out. Photo: Neil Jacobs/Netflix.

Episode 2: “Spring”

A ticking clock is all that’s heard when we first see Emily, arms crossed on a couch, sitting next to Lorelai, who says, “I would like to say I was wrong. And I’m very, very sorry.” It’s a blanket apology for anything that she should be sorry for. “Is that allowed?” Emily asks their therapist, Claudia, who assures her that anything is allowed here — even quoting Alanis Morissette, which Lorelai does.

This is therapy with the Gilmores, where the two fight about who’s winning, despite Claudia letting them know she’s not taking score. Lorelai whispering the question of how much time they have left nearly every 10 minutes is the only thing that breaks the deafening silence. Claudia believes their silence speaks volumes. And what do you know, time is up and Lorelai’s getting guilted into coming back next Tuesday.

If that was the appetizer, Stars Hollow’s International Spring Food Festival is the main course. Rory is back and she’s already talking about leaving. Taylor is worried the fest isn’t international enough, since only 15 out of 195 countries actually showed up. Lane is manning the Korean table while Mrs. Kim trains her new choir, which is using way too much toilet paper for her taste. The long-lost Mr. Kim finally appears, as does Jackson, sans Sookie.

Rory is still taking calls, this time from Sandee, who runs the website SandeeSays. According to her, it will take over the Huffington Post in a year. But not without Rory Gilmore, who ends up back in London with Naomi, who wants to bite her cheeks. She’s eccentric! She’s also very hard to pin down, as is Rory’s relationship with Logan. She’s having lunch to talk about Naomi and her drunken pronunciation of “escalus.” Rory took this job because Naomi broke barriers in the field of journalism, but Logan says the five-martini lunch Rory just had with her sounds about right. It’s clear: the great meeting she had in winter faded in the spring. And that meeting with Condé Nast? It’s been pushed back once again.

To make this meal even worse, Logan and Rory are joined by Mitchum Huntzberger, who is the kind of guy who will eat the fries right off your plate while offering to call Condé Nast for you. Rory says no thanks. His appearance gets even more infuriating after he reveals Logan is engaged to a girl named Odette. Once a cad, always a cad.

The first town meeting reveals that Stars Hollow is having its first Pride Parade, which makes up for the show’s major LGBTQ problem. That is, until we hear that the town is thinking of canceling it because there aren’t not enough gays in town. Taylor’s even asking neighboring towns to lend them some for the parade — all while the town is trying to figure out if Taylor is gay. Luke kind of speaks for me here: “Is this really happening?” Yes it is, but it feels like in 2016, it shouldn’t be.

The meeting also informs us that a big Hollywood movie is being filmed in Woodbury. Matthew McConaughey is buying three newspapers a day, while Stars Hollow is only getting the B-level stars who just aren’t adding enough to the economy. Michel is concerned — this means the Dragonfly has peaked. “What’s the point of living if we can’t bag Jennifer Lawrence?” he asks. Truth.

Liz has joined a cult and I can’t say I’m surprised. What is surprising is Luke’s outburst about things growing. When Lorelai talks about Michel’s concerns about the Dragonfly being too small, he immediately blows up. “Why does everything need to grow? If something’s good, why not keep it the same? No, you don’t need more.” Um, okay...overreaction much?

Paul Anka returns. Not dog Paul Anka, but real Paul Anka, who’s in Lorelai’s dream for the third time this year, as she tells Rory over the phone. She’s worried Michel is leaving. Sookie has already left her in her buddy venture and all she has left is Michel, her Paris, and her “angry friend.” What Lorelai doesn’t realize is her other best friend, Rory, isn’t being too honest with her either. Lorelai still thinks that Rory is staying with a British friend named DiDi and not Logan. But now is not the time for her to worry about this, since she’s got another therapy session to attend.

Lorelai hasn’t learned anything. She even attempts that same lame apology from before, which Emily is just not having. So it’s silence until a fade to black. Once we’re back, it’s a rare scene: Emily and Lorelai laughing together. Unfortunately, Trombone Stan can’t keep Emily from wanting to talk about Lorelai leaving. “Are we really going to go back over this ancient history again?” Lorelai asks. But when did they ever really talk about this? Sure, they’ve fought over it, but actually talking about it? That would be something new. These ladies are going to actually talk about their problems, because with an hour and a half and no commercial breaks to worry about, there’s time for these two to actually talk. That is, if there session wasn’t over. Now, we’re left wondering if Lorelai really wrote Emily a rude letter that she’s still upset about. But hello, this is foreshadowing at its finest.

It’s time to head back to London, where Rory’s having a heated call with Naomi, who, yes, is a real handful. I’m going to say it now: Rory’s got to get out of this book, which is clearly more trouble than it’s worth. She seems to know this, too, and is having Logan assess SandeeSays, which he says is not the New Yorker, but the fact that it wants Rory means that someone is trying to “class the joint up.” These words all sound so nice, until Logan lets Rory know she can’t really stay with him anymore, because Odette’s coming to town. Wouldn’t want your fiancée to find out about your girlfriend, now would you? Definitely not Team Logan over here. More Team Rory Needs To Find Someone Better Before Spring.

A trip to the Black, White, & Read Movie Theater gives us the premiere of Kirk’s second short film about a man and his pig, which is rudely interrupted by a phone call from Emily. Weird thing is, she’s calling Luke to invite just him to dinner next week. Even weirder? The fact that Rachael Ray is hanging out in the Dragonfly kitchen. Actually, scratch that, not as weird as Luke heading to Hartford to discuss the money Richard left him in his will. It can only be used to expand or franchise the diner. Remember when Richard told him to franchise Luke’s way back in season 5? Turns out, he’s still not taking no for an answer.

The next morning has Rory standing in front of Chilton, which once looked so big when she was there in uniform, but just looks kind of cozy now. Rory is there for an alumni event, but before that, she’s giving a lecture to a class. Rory is a natural in front of the room, while Paris is well, Paris. The class she’s speaking to looks horrified by her “kill or be killed” approach. “I’m not in the habit of quoting Joseph Stalin” is just one of the gems from her speech that these kids will need therapy to get over. But Paris has her own nightmarish moment when she catches a glimpse of Tristan ( not played by Chad Michael Murray) hitting on another alumna.

Pictured: Rory and Paris (Liza Weil) head back to Chilton for a visit with Headmaster Charleston (Darkin Matthews).Photo: Neil Jacobs/Netflix.

It’s a side of Paris we haven’t seen since high school. The vulnerable, lonely, sad Paris. But she’s no longer a high schooler, which makes this feeling hard for her to comprehend. After all the degrees — she’s a doctor, lawyer, dental technician, and an expert in neoclassical architecture — and “subtle nips and tucks,” Paris can’t get rid of Paris Geller. “I’m a phony,” she says, revealing that her briefcase holds nothing and her kids hate her, but love the nanny. Sound familiar?

Soon, Francie is joining them in a bathroom, where she gets an earful from Paris. Basically, it’s all the things Paris should have said back in 2003 when she was class president. But now, she’s just dealing with a divorce and preparing for a panel at the 92nd Street Y, where Lena Dunham is the moderator. (Yep, that is reference No. 2.) These characters may be older, but they’re still holding on to some of their youth.

With Rory, it’s her dream of being Christiane Amanpour. It’s no surprise that Headmaster Charleston wants to know if Rory’s ever thought of getting her master’s and becoming a teacher. They have a spot open in any department for her, should she choose to accept it. Like Emily, Charleston is concerned about her living here and there and not living up to her potential. Rory’s worried teaching means she’s given up.

After a visit to Paris’ brownstone, where we see screenwriter Doyle, Rory is ready to take Mitchum’s offer. Lucky outfit is still MIA, but Rory has finally made it to that Condé Nast meeting, where the editors at GQ are comparing her to David Foster Wallace and offering her a story on lines and the psychology of the people who are waiting in them. It’s not a job. She leaves the meeting a little defeated.

Emily is feeling this way about therapy, too. She calls it quits. This is actually a good thing. Finally, Lorelai will have to talk about some of the uncomfortable things from her past. She tells the story of the day Richard died: she was working on the books at the inn when she got a call from Emily. It was a heart attack. “A big one.” He never left the ICU, but Lorelai remembers him being in and out of consciousness and angry. His last words were, “Get the hell away from me.” It’s funny, Lorelai says of those words he spoke to his nurses, but she never got her moment to say goodbye like in those Lifetime movies. She talks about being married, which didn’t end badly, but admits should have never happened. “It was supposed to be Luke,” she says before she tells Claudia, “Luke and I are happy.” Maybe once more with feeling?

At the moment, Luke is definitely not happy — he’s with Emily and a realtor. Now, here’s where I wonder, Why didn’t Richard leave this money to Lorelai to expand the Dragonfly? But Emily’s already off and running to steal a restaurant from someone who is going bankrupt. She is also happy to learn that Lorelai doesn’t tell Luke anything, either, including the fact that Emily quit therapy. When Luke asks Lorelai about the session while she watches A History of Violence (Luke is so Viggo Mortensen), she tells him that Emily did most of the talking. Uh-oh. Real talk here: Luke is making me very sad. He seems trapped and unable to tell anyone how he feels and how he’s uninterested in moving forward.

While Luke’s off making a sad salad, Rory’s on a call with Naomi’s lawyer (Jason Mantzoukas), who is sending the paperwork to dissolve the contract. Another dead end for Rory, who’s ready to write about lines. She did make a parking lot interesting for The Franklin, so maybe she can pull this off, too? First, she needs to do a little stress tapping — then, she’ll be right on top of that Rose.

Lorelai’s joined her in an escape to New York that is filled with lines, so many lines. Luckily, coffee is also there as Rory attempts to tell the story of those people who are waiting for the new cronut. It’s soooo interesting that she falls asleep mid-interview and wakes up to find Mae Whitman. Rory needs some sleep, but, instead, she sleeps with a Wookie. It’s her first one-night stand and she’s freaking out. It makes her think she’s behind. She has no job or apartment and we’re finally getting that Rory we remember. The list-maker who’s got it all planned out. Except this time, she has no list. She’s flailing. She’s also ready to talk about Logan, who’s engaged to a French heiress. “That’s way sluttier than a one-night stand,” Lorelai tells her daughter before admitting she actually had that lucky outfit (red dress, full skirt) the whole time. Lorelai is confused on why she didn’t tell her about Logan, but really, Lorelai, are you? When was the last time you told Emily about a relationship, huh? Rory has Lorelai’s eyes, but there’s other, less attractive, things she’s inherited, too.

SandeeSays is looking good right about now, but Rory needs to sell herself. She’s having a hard time doing that. She showed up with no pitches, which seems a little presumptuous. It’s why Sandee’s going with a two-month veteran like Kaitlin and Rory is shouting “Get Shorty” in an elevator bank. That lucky dress wasn’t all that lucky, after all. Rory’s throwing away her phones and starting over. She’s moving back to Stars Hollow and Lorelai couldn’t be more concerned.

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Apple's Big Black Friday Perks Are Here

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If you're planning on gifting a MacBook, Apple Watch, iPad, Apple TV, or iPhone 6s, you'll want to buy it today. Apple just unveiled its big Black Friday deal and while we'd be lying if we said weren't a little disappointed by it, there are still some great perks.

The bad news: No specific Apple products are on sale. The good news: Buy most models of the items listed above and you'll get an Apple gift card worth up to $150. That' s money that you can put towards an iPhone upgrade of your own. So what are you waiting for?

This article was originally published on November 22, 2016 at 6:40 p.m.

Apple is one of those stores that rarely has sales, no matter what time of year it is. But a post on its website today indicates that not only will the store of our iPhone dreams be having a sale — it will be a Black Friday sale.

In the post, next to an Apple Watch with a calendar notification for this Friday, are possibly the most joyful words of the season: "Friday can’t come soon enough. Our one-day shopping event will be here before you know it. Come back this Friday to check everyone off your list."

According to Time, the company didn't participate in the retail holiday last year. And the only Black Friday deal it has ever offered was one for mere gift card bundles. However, this year's teaser hints at far more than gift cards.

Will it be a chance to purchase a discounted MacBook Pro with Touch Bar or an iPhone 7? Or maybe the new Apple Watch Nike+? We have until Friday to wonder which gadgets the company may discount, if any. But one thing's for sure: This Black Friday is already looking up.

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Why Black Friday Is One Of My Favorite Days Of The Year

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Call me crazy, but I love Black Friday. I'm not talking about the sit at home and shop from your computer kind of Black Friday (although there are plenty of great online deals if that's more your scene). I'm talking about the wake up at the crack of dawn, drive to the mall, and deal with crazed parking lots and stores kind of Black Friday.

If you think I'm insane, I don't blame you. Before I was in my junior year of high school, I probably would have thought I was batshit out of my mind, too. Honestly, I'm probably the least likely person to enjoy Black Friday. I hate crowds — that's one reason I rarely go to big concerts and wouldn't be caught dead in a club — and can be extremely impatient while shopping. I usually prefer to be in and out of a store in 10 minutes or less, which is why I tend to go by myself.

I can't remember what exactly convinced me that I should get up at 4:30 a.m. on November 23, 2007, and head to Providence Place Mall. Maybe I just wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Or maybe I wanted to rebel against my Black Friday-averse parents and prove that I, the tough 17-year-old that I was, could "handle" the day. Whatever it was, I woke up bleary-eyed and still in a partial food coma from Thanksgiving and had one of my favorite days that year and every year since. Here's why...

For some people, the holiday season begins with the Rockefeller tree lighting. For me, it begins with Black Friday. It's the day that puts me in the Christmas spirit. I don't go to the mall with the intention of buying anything, so my expectations aren't dependent on getting certain deals. I go with the intention of buying a hot chocolate, listening to Frank Sinatra holiday music, and walking around to see how all of the stores are decked out in festive decorations. With expectations like that, Black Friday is absolutely doable.

While everyone else is rushing around, determined to beat the lines or get the free "something" promised to the first 50 customers at Macy's, I'm sipping my cocoa and having a jolly good time. I know I'm the only calm one in a sea full of extremely anxious people. If I do buy something and get a great deal, that's a bonus, but not a necessity for me to see the day as a success.

After two or three hours of strolling around, I head home, giving my parking space up to some very grateful person. By that point, my food coma will have subsided, meaning I'm ready to dig in to leftovers again, curl up with my yellow lab, and watch Bill Nighy sing Christmas Is All Around as Love Actually 's endearing, washed-up pop star, Billy Mack. I'm now officially prepared to toast the season with eggnog — and, at some point, do my Christmas shopping.

If you think you hate Black Friday but have never actually experienced it, perhaps this is the year that changes all that. Yes, it can be a day of sale-induced madness. But for me, and maybe you, too, it can be a day of holiday cheer. So bring on the ugly Christmas sweaters and reindeer cookies.

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30 Kardashian-Themed Holiday Gifts You Can Give This Season

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We all know at least one. That person in our lives who could spout off any random piece of Kardashian trivia. Or who unabashedly defends Kim and her selfies. Or is always tagging you in their Instagrams with a handful of excited emojis.

So for the holidays, we've rounded up 30 gift ideas for the Kardashian lover in your life. We've got keychains, we've got T-shirts, we've got beauty products. And, of course, lashes, Lumees, and lip kits. One thing we can give the Kardashian clan credit for: Just about everything in their empire is pretty affordable.

Happy shopping!

Strong Looks Better Naked by Khloe Kardashian; $18, available at Amazon

For the reader who has Koko-like fitness goals.

Photo: Courtesy of Amazon.

Lumee phone case; $39.95, available at Lumee

Light up someone's life — and their selfies — with Kim Kardashian's back-lit phone case.

Photo: Courtesy of Lumee.

Kylie Jenner keychain; $7, available at Etsy

For all the keys, keys, keys, keys.

Photo: Courtesy of Keychainery on Etsy.

Sopa de Gouche Kendall T-shirt; $20, available at Sopa De Gouche

A hot way for Kendall fans to rep their favorite Jenner.

Photo: Courtesy of Gouch Soup.

ApiNourish Rejuvenating face mask, $37.98. available at manukadoctor.com

Know someone who wants the secret to Kourtney's youthful skin? She swears by this face mask.

Photo: Courtesy of manoukadoctor.com.

Arthur George "Bad Ass" socks, $15, available at Arthur George

This holiday season, everyone can keep their toes warm, thanks to Rob Kardashian.

Photo: Courtesy of shoparthurgeorge.com.

"What Would Lord Disick Do? T-Shirt; $33.43, available at RedBubble

A motto to live by, a T-shirt to live in.

Photo: Courtesy of Red Bubble.

In The Kitchen With Kris cookbook; $13.99, available at Amazon.

Is there anything that will make you feel like a Kardashian family member more than kooking (er, cooking) with Kris?

Photo: Courtesy of Amazon.

Lashed by Blac Chyna false lashes; $12.99, available at Lashed

Who better to help you feel like a Kardashian than the next Kardashian-to-be, Angela herself?

Photo: Courtesy of Lashed Bar.

"You're The North To My Penelope" cup; $10, available at Etsy

Could there be any gift more perfect — or adorable — for your Kardashian-loving BFF?

Photo: Courtesy of BunnyBsBoutique.

Keeping Up with the Kardashians Season 12; $29.99, available at Amazon

Give the gift of the latest season of the show, which spans everything from the return of Rob to a family trip to Cuba.

Photo: Courtesy of Amazon.

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West portrait; $9.60, available at Etsy.

For the most diehard — and ironic — Kimye supporter in your life.

Photo: Courtesy of CelebrityOilPainting on Etsy.

Good American Jeans in "Katie"; $149, available at Good American

If you need a gift for someone who wants to look as good in jeans as Khloe K.

Photo: Courtesy of Good American Jeans.

Dash cosmetic bag, $22, available at Dash

For the Kardashian obsessee and beauty addict who needs to keep her products — like, say, a Kylie Lip Kit — close.

Photo: Courtesy of Dash.

Kylie Lip Kit; $29, available kyliecosmetics.com

Any beauty product lover will appreciate this one, but especially a Jenner fan. Warning: You'll have to pay attention to her Snapchat to see when they go on sale again.

Photo: Courtesy of kylielipkit.com.

Rebels: City Of Indra by Kendall and Kylie Jenner; $12.29, available at Amazon.

The Jenner girls wrote a dystopian young adult novel. Clearly this is a must-read for any Kardashian fan.

Photo: Courtesy of Amazon.

KIMOJI wrapping paper; $35, available at kimkardashianwest.com

Be the butt of the joke this holiday season. (Sorry, couldn't resist that one.)

Photo: Courtesy of KimKardashianWest.com.

Kim Kardashian prayer candle; $9.99, available at Etsy

If you have a loved one who bows down to Kim K — literally — this will be the gift that keeps on giving.

Photo: Courtesy of Calartcandles on Etsy.

Kardashian Beauty 3-in-1 ceramic flat iron; $89.99, available at Ulta

For hair like a Kardashian/Jenner. Jen Atkin sold separately.

Photo: Courtesy of Ulta.

Kendall + Kylie "Finley" Chelsea boot, $189.95, available at Nordstrom

These boots were made for walking — like a Jenner.

Photo: Courtesy of Nordstrom.

Kim Kardashian fragrance; $21.49, available at Target

For the person who doesn't want to settle for just looking like a Kardashian, but wants to smell like one, too.

Photo: Courtesy of Target.

Kimoji phone case; $35, available at kimkardashianwest.com

Oh, you thought you could only get Kim's butt on wrapping paper? Nope, you can get that — plus dozens of other Kimojis — on a phone case, too.

Photo: Courtesy of KimKardashianWest.com.

iTunes gift card for Kimoji app; $1.99 for Kimoji App, available at iTunes

For the person who's been dying to download Kimojis, but hasn't been able to justify shelling out that $2.

Photo: Courtesy of iTunes.

"Selfish" by Kim Kardashian; $13.45, available at Amazon

For the person in need of some selfie inspiration (or who just really likes looking at Kim Kardashian).

Photo: Courtesy of Amazon.

Kendall + Kylie bikini bottoms; $10, available at Topshop

The tops for these popular bathing suits are sold out, but you can still help someone go bottoms up, Jenner style.

Photo: Courtesy of Topshop.

Angel waist trainer; $31.97 available at Amazon

Seeing as the crazy waist trainer trend was started by — who else? — the Kardashians, this only seems fitting. (Pun intended.)

Photo: Courtesy of Amazon.

Sugarbearhair vitamins; $29.99, available at Sugarbearhair

The Kardashian sisters have long sworn the secret to their enviable hair is these vitamins. Jury's still out on whether they actually work, of if they just taste like candy.

Photo: Courtesy of sugarbearhair.com.

Fit Tea 14 Day Detox; $25, available at Fit Tea

They've also credited their flat bellies to these Fit Tea detoxes. Warning: A purchase of this tea does not include a personal Kardashian-level physical trainer.

Photo: Courtesy of fittea.com.

Kim Kardashian T-Shirt, $13.99, available at Etsy

This throwback glamour shot of Kim would make for a nice ode to the middle Kardashian sister.

Photo: Courtesy of Etsy.

Tunic from the Kris Jenner collection, $27.39, available at QVC

Know a mom — or just anyone — who idolizes momager Kris Jenner? This tunic from her QVC collection could be just the right fit.

Photo: Courtesy of QVC.

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These Pretty Gifts Are Straight From The Drugstore

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When it comes to cult beauty products, it’s not hard to find a worthy alternative at the drugstore. In fact, most of us have piles of drugstore empties, because they're just that good. But for holiday gifts, the thinking tends to be that only products and gift sets with high price tags will impress. Not true, it turns out. A low price and a pretty aesthetic aren't mutually exclusive.

This season, we’re crossing off our holiday shopping lists at the drugstore, which is currently filled with chic options for everyone. (And we can't complain about the convenience of stocking up on presents while picking up our birth control.)

See them, ahead.

This basket is stuffed to the brim with everything someone (Your mom? Grandma?) could need for an at-home spa night.

Natural Aromatic Bath Gift Set in Canvas Box, $9.99, available at CVS.

Treat your friends to plush socks. They can slip 'em on after lathering their feet up with the hydrating lotion.

Bodycology Cherish The Moment Fragrance Gift Set, $4.88, available at Walmart.

Bath salts are practical, but even more so when they're wrapped in a bucket you can store all your bathroom essentials in.

Dr. Teal’s Soothe & Sleep with Lavender Gift Set, $9.88, available at Walmart.

Foot-related gifts aren't the sexiest — unless you're giving Manolos or this cute set of balms and creams (which can be used on other body parts, too).

Burt’s Bees Tips and Toes Kit Holiday Gift Set 6 pc, $12.99, available at Target.

Because the holidays require a lot of polish changes.

Essie Holiday Mini Nail Polish Kit, $12.99, available at Target.

First Aid Beauty’s skin care always gets us excited; add a bow and we're racing to wash our face.

First Aid Beauty Cleanse & Exfoliate Kit, $16.99, available at Walmart.

This lotion, lip balm, and hand cream set will carry skin through winter and keep it smelling good, too.

EOS Lip Balm and Lotion Sets in Berry Blossom, $9.99, available at CVS.

Jennifer Aniston's fragrance smells just how you imagine she does: beachy and clean.

Jennifer Aniston Fragrance For Women, $19.88, available at Walmart.

Gifting fragrance can be tough, but we have yet to meet someone who doesn't love this clean, fresh, feminine scent.

Philosophy Amazing Grace Ornament, $18, available at Ulta Beauty.

This set is filled with just about everything you could need for last-minute travel plans — and it's all Drew Barrymore-approved.

Flower Beauty Flowerful Color Kiss Collection Gift Set, $9.88, available at Walmart.

Give someone the gift of beauty sleep with this powerful, regenerative skin-care set.

No.7 Beauty Sleep Collection, $20, available at Walgreens.

It's taking everything in us not to take a bite out of these fun bath bombs.

Ulta Beauty Macaroon Bake Shop Bath Fizzers Gift Set, $14, available at Ulta Beauty.

This palette is pretty enough to Instagram and is our pick for anyone who can’t go a day without watching a YouTube tutorial.

BH Cosmetics Carli Bybel 14 Color Eyeshadow & Highlighter Palette, $14.50, available at Ulta Beauty.

Calm your most stressed-out friend out with this set of aromatherapeutic scents.

Fruits 5 Essential Oil Sampler Set, $31.36, available at Walmart.

These glossy lip crayons work as stocking stuffers for everyone, since there's a neutral and a bright.

Hard Candy Lip Gloss Set, $3, available at Walmart.

If unicorns and rainbows aren’t your style, you’ll live for these makeup brushes adorned with slippery serpents.

Sonia Kashuk Holiday Brush Set 10 pc, $39.99, available at Target.

A rosy lip gloss, glowing cheek hue, and neutral cream shadow — this helpful trio will round out the most simple makeup routine, ever.

Vapour Organic Beauty Bon Bon Beauty Gift Set, $70, available at Target.

This romantic travel set features a fragrance, body wash, and body butter that smell like a bouquet of red roses.

Sonia Kashuk Red Holiday Promisia Travel Set, $19.99, available at Target.

This best-selling celebrity fragrance basically walks itself to the register.

Elizabeth Taylor White Diamonds Fragrance For Women, $19.88, available at Walmart.

Your eyes are going to look so good at every party.

Maybelline Be Sensational Holiday Kit, $9.88, available at Walmart.

Every beauty novice should start the cosmetic journey with these sets. This one is loaded with every colorful shadow, blush, and lip color you could ever possibly need — and makes you feel like a total pro.

Ulta Beauty Make Today Pretty 72 Piece Collection, $17.99, available at Ulta Beauty.

Every essential for a baby-soft bod comes perfectly wrapped in this bright-pink box.

Soap & Glory Pink Twice Gift Set, $16, available at Target.

Why not split up this set of EOS lip balms and give one to every bestie?

EOS 2016 Limited Edition Lip Balm, $7.99, available at Walmart.

Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!

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We're Calling It Now: These Are 2016's It-Bags

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This post was originally published on June 10, 2016.

What defines an It bag varies from season to season: Sometimes, it's obvious that bloggers and editors are being gifted a certain style by a brand, practically guaranteeing its status as the item of the moment. Other times, though, a piece is just so classic, so Instagram-worthy, and offers just the right amount of exclusivity that it naturally catches on like wildfire (we're looking at you, Mansur Gavriel).

Despite the varying reasons behind a bag's rise to popularity, there's no denying that we're always trying to get our hands on the next big thing in carryalls. So, to get ahead of the trends, we're putting our money (both literally and figuratively) on these 17 styles. Whether you choose to skip your daily latte and start a savings plan to eventually score the real deal, or are simply looking for silhouette inspiration for your next shopping trip (because let's be real, there will be more-affordable, mass-produced versions of these bags soon enough), click through to see the next generation of It bags that are about to make it big.

This festive new "GG" Gucci style is sure to be popular for the holiday season.

Gucci Marmont Matelassé Mini Bag, $980, available at Gucci.

Some studs and a punky grommet strap make this messenger an all-black-everything must-have.

Michael Kors Sullivan Medium Leather Messenger, $368, available at Michael Kors.

Your work-bag can be equally practical and stylish.

Mulberry Maple in Burgundy Printed Goat, $1,395, available at Mulberry.

This new Acne bag is sure to sell out, and we're leaning toward this unique green hue.

Acne Studios Musubi Shopper Acid Green, $1,800, available at Acne Studios.

Because every outfit could use a little metallic finish, no?

Proenza Schouler Medium Hex Bucket Bag, $1,960, available at Proenza Schouler.

Balenciaga's Bazar bag looks like the tote you carry to the farmer's market, only it's just slightly (okay, way) more expensive.

Balenciaga Bazar Medium Grained-leather Tote, $1,645, available at MatchesFashion.

You've got to love an It-bag that isn't too in your face when it comes to logos or branding, and this happens Loewe number happens to be the silhouette our very own global editor-in-chief Christene Barberich is saving up for this year.

Loewe Blue Small Puzzle Bag, $1,990, available at Loewe.

This studded mini-bag from Alexander Wang's fall collection is sure to be a celeb favorite.

Alexander Wang Runway Roxy Mini Bucket In Studded Black Suede, $595, available at Alexander Wang.

It's no secret that 2016 is the year of Gucci, and with its online-exclusive #GucciGarden collection already being worn by influencers and editors around the world, this floral mini-bag (which we excitedly unboxed earlier this month) is kind of a big deal.

Gucci Exclusive Dionysus Mini Bag, $1,800, available at Gucci.

The Jane Birkin-esque basket bag is experiencing an intense resurgence, and while we all hope to find a perfect vintage version of our own (it's not easy!), this Clare V. variation checks all the boxes — and it's already popping up all over Instagram this summer.

Clare V. Alice, $199, available at Clare V.

Over the past two years, oversized pom-pom keychains took over the street style scene as the accessory of choice. So it's no wonder that designers like Les Petit Joueurs are catching on to the trend, producing bags that have the fun-loving accent built right in.

Les Petit Joueurs Mini Alex Bunny Satchel, $1,050, available at Shopbop.

There's no denying that the bucket bag has become the purse silhouette to have. But the new bucket bag (yup, you heard it heard first) is a bit more avant-garde: It boasts a slightly geometric shape, a somewhat-shiny finish, and a single belt-like strap.

Trademark Bucket Bag, $528, available at Trademark.

Every thrift-store-shopping, vintage-lover needs a classic box bag in rotation; it pairs too perfectly with flirty A-line skirts and floral dresses to resist.

Mark Cross Small Grace Trunk Bag, $2,195, available at Barneys New York.

Fendi's Monster bags are filled with personality. But, rather than grabbing the popular furry versions of seasons past, opt for the updated version. Go for a reliable (and poised for a major comeback) baguette shape that offers a more minimalist (and less fuzzy) take on our favorite fashion faces.

Fendi Baguette Bag Bugs Leather Shoulder Bag, $1,810, available at MatchesFashion.

One surefire way to ensure a bag's It potential? Attach an unmistakeable, eye-catching strap that you can easily see from a mile away. Loewe's geometric, colorful, and textured shoulder bag checks that box right off.

Loewe V Bucket Textured-leather Shoulder Bag, $1,550, available at Net-a-Porter.

Teeny-tiny bags might not seem like the most practical things in the world, but when you find a gem like this Sophie Hulme version, you'll immediately come to realize their full potential. Get your hands on this "Honey, I shrunk the tote" (and its attached little whistle) before everyone else, and prepare to receive tons of, "Who makes your bag?" inquiries from complete strangers.

Sophie Hulme Light Grey Albion Box Tote, $595, available at Sophie Hulme.

We're calling it: grommets are the new studs. Ease into the edgy trend with a simple black crossbody you're guaranteed to wear the heck out of (big, silver circles and all).

Prada Daino Chain Bowler Bag with Grommets, $2,190, available at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Céline totes may have had their moment, but we see this not-too-large 3.1 Phillip Lim bag giving them a run for their money in a more understated, grown-up way.

3.1 Phillip Lim Bianca Small Tote, $825, available at 3.1 Phillip Lim.

Trade in your beat-up black leather bag for a less-structured version that doesn't just have a unique shape, but is buttery-soft and Olsen twin-approved, too.

The Row The Sling Leather Shoulder Bag, $2,950, available at Net-a-Porter.

With Acne Studios' first foray into handbags, it's hard to pick just one that's bound to achieve It status, but there's just something particularly special about this red-hot backpack with thick contrasting black stitching. We can already see groups of off-duty models toting this guy around in-between shows.

Acne Studios Rope Jungle Red, $1,600, available at Acne Studios.

This bag encompasses everything we could want in a statement-making piece — its monochromatic palette, animal-like print, miniature size, and bold handle make it a can't-miss buy for 2016.

Opening Ceremony Lynx Rubberized Leopard Suede Crossbody, $465, available at Opening Ceremony.

Boxy, beaded evening clutches are so 2011, but this itty-bitty bucket-style bag with a metallic ring handle does the same job — just in a way cooler way.

Simon Miller Bonsai Bucket Bag, $360, available at Barneys New York.

If you follow any fashion bloggers, you've probably started seeing this Chloé bag pop up in your Instagram feed plenty already — and that's only going to continue into 2016. This time, a two-tone, all-leather variation is king.

Chloé Faye Medium Leather Shoulder Bag, $1,950, available at Net-a-Porter.

Forget the smaller-sized Saint Laurent cross-bodies you're used to seeing. Instead, the canvas bag gets a high-fashion makeover with the brand's large logo-ed tote. It's bound to catch on as the airport carryall of choice.

Saint Laurent Beach Leather-trimmed Canvas Tote, $795, available at Net-a-Porter.

A wine-colored top-handle bag (with a cross-body option, too) is a safe but interesting deviation from your usual black leather, and sometimes, a single outside zipper pocket is all you need.

A.L.C. Luke Bucket Bag, $595, available at Barneys New York.

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Meet Anna May, The Boundary-Breaking NYC Florist & Skateboarder

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Fearless Femme_TNT

Kick-ass skateboarder and florist Anna May Dutton has an unmistakeable talent for discovering the harmony of unlike (though equally groovy) things. An intrepid female shredder who's never let the skate park's intimidating gender dynamics slow her ride, she also sculpts vibrant arrangements at NYC's sumptuous Adore Floral. Though these dueling gifts may seem to lie at odds, Dutton has a persuasive underpinning logic for her eclectic passions: Like skateboarders, florists find and accentuate the interconnections that bind structure and movement, telling stories through the color or shape of their blooms. It's easy to see how her theory of motion and shape applies to skateboarding when watching Anna May glide through the city or fearlessly fly down a ramp. Most importantly, we're inspired by how Anna May boldly chases her passions despite the expectations of others, following (on her board, obviously) them wherever they take her.

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The Pregnancy I Didn't Announce

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I have an early scan of my second pregnancy that almost no one has seen. I bet, if I put it up on Facebook, it would get a flurry of likes and congratulations at first. Those ultrasound printouts can be confusing: white and gray blurry structures that could be anything, until you know, and then it's easy to tell what's what.

When a friend announced her pregnancy with a Facebook post of her 12-weeks-and-three-days scan, she got more than a hundred likes on Facebook. The due date looked familiar, and then I realized why: It was 12 weeks and three days since I had conceived, too.

"It's too early to see," the doctor said at my eight-week scan. All we could see was an almost perfectly round, 0.75” by 0.78” inky blob: the gestational sac developing, already pushing my stomach out despite its tiny size. We returned three weeks later, hoping the invisible fetus had magically grown to camera-ready size. It hadn't. The scan showed the blob had elongated, sunken in the middle into a rough banana shape, but still empty.

This time, the doctor confirmed that the pregnancy had probably stopped about five weeks earlier. It was now considered a “spontaneous abortion.” The shape of the empty sac proved my body was already trying to reject it, a fact I would be quite aware of a few hours later when the low belly cramps and spotting started.

I'd known weeks before first seeing the blob. This pregnancy had been about everything I wasn't feeling. No nausea, no tiredness so extreme I couldn't make it through the day without a two-hour afternoon nap, no hint of the prenatal depression I'd had with my first baby, no sudden aversion to the sweet foods I'm normally hooked on, no feeling that something special was happening. I was more hungry than usual, mostly for starchy carbs, I had to pee annoyingly often, and my stomach looked bloated, but that was it. I had been half-pregnant, with half the symptoms, and a whole baby was missing.

Photo: Courtesy of Nicola Prentis.

I counted myself lucky that my instincts had me prepared as I sat in the obstetrician's office, surrounded by leaflets, posters, and a calendar full of chubby baby photos, discussing what would happen next. I could hear the fetal heartbeat of the lady in the next room along while I chose a D&C, rather than a drug-induced abortion or the wait-and-see-at-home method.

For the six days between the onset of miscarriage and the procedure, with nothing to do but cramp, bleed (not too heavily), and obsessively monitor the bleeding for signs of tissue, I read up on miscarriage in online forums. I had been in complete ignorance that a miscarriage was physically painful. I knew there was some bleeding, but I didn't know your body had to go through an agonizing labor to miscarry. I became scared to leave the house in case I bled my non-baby out onto the street.

I made it to the hospital without fully miscarrying, and they wheeled me into surgery past a stack of incubators and the sounds of a newborn crying. The op went so well, coming out of the 10-minute general anesthesia was as refreshing as waking up from an afternoon nap. No pain, no hemorrhaging, no tears. It was as if it had happened to someone else. Of course, I tried not to dwell on it — and intellectually I know there’s almost nothing a pregnant woman can do to cause a loss — but I was still paranoid about the ibuprofen I'd taken for pharyngitis before I knew I was pregnant, and the apple cider vinegar I'd gargled which one website said pregnant women should avoid. And the two large glasses of sangria I'd drunk. And the raw cheese I'd consumed. And the folic acid I'd not started until the second month. And my aging eggs.

Even so, I saw pregnant women and didn't grieve; I chatted to a pregnant friend, and it was fine. I didn't consciously choose to hide my half-pregnancy and D&C, but I didn’t know how to mention it, so it became a secret anyway.

They wheeled me into surgery past a stack of incubators and the sounds of a newborn crying.

But seeing my friend's 12-week "I'm officially pregnant and all is well!" post, I finally felt the cuts from the shards of my own loss. There'll be no announcements, no countdown, no ever-increasing bump photos to share, no congratulations, no happy-complaining about not fitting into clothes, no wishing it was over because my back hurts and I can't get up without help, no foraging in the back of the wardrobe for the newborn baby clothes I've saved from my first — my only — baby. When my friend gives birth, it will be right around the due date I no longer have.

My scan picture is all I have left. Until I saw my friend's post on Facebook, I'd forgotten just how clearly you can see a head, nose, and foot. There's nothing ambiguous about any of those white-and-gray blurry structures once you know. And while I quickly clicked "Like" and typed "Congratulations!!!" I've not been able to bring myself to write and ask how she's doing, even though we've talked in the past about her fears that she might never be able to have a baby because of health issues. Again, without intending to hide it, my miscarriage seems like news that will somehow trump hers and taint it with sadness.

This article is instead of the miscarriage announcement I didn’t make, that no one makes. But maybe we should, because the more we hide "failed" pregnancies, the more we isolate ourselves. If up to a quarter of pregnancies end in miscarriage, then how do I know that my friend hasn't had her own share of sadness? By keeping miscarriages secret, we bar ourselves not just from receiving support and the recognition of our losses, but also from giving that support to others. For me, that has turned into being unable to really share in someone's happy pregnancy news. And maybe that's the biggest loss of all.

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Selena Gomez Returns To Instagram With Loving Message For Fans

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Fans of Selena Gomez are thankful for a photo and message from her following a reported stint in rebab for self-care.

The black-and-white photo of Gomez with fans at a concert has already garnered more than 2.8 million likes on Instagram. The photo also came with a message from the "Good For You" singer.

"I have a lot to be thankful for this year. My year has been the hardest yet most rewarding one yet," Gomez wrote.

"I've finally fought the fight of not 'being enough.' I have only wanted to reflect the love you guys have given me for years and show how important it is to take care of YOU. By grace through faith. Kindness always wins. I love you guys. God bless," she added.

Gomez made her first recent public appearance earlier this month at the American Music Awards, where she was awarded the AMA for Favorite Pop/Rock Female Artist.

In her acceptance speech, Gomez addressed her time off, letting fans know that it's okay to take care of yourself, saying, "If you're broken, you don't have to stay broken."

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How Taylor Swift & Her Squad Slayed Thanksgiving 2016

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How Taylor Swift & Her Squad Slayed Thanksgiving 2016

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Beachgiving. Squadsgiving. Tay Day. Whatever you want to call it, Taylor Swift 's Thanksgiving was nonstop wining and dining, beach bumming, and laughing the day away.

Swift's immediate family and friends descended on her Rhode Island beach house for an Instagram-perfect holiday. Squad cameos included Martha Hunt, Lily Donaldson, Leah McCarthy, and Todrick Hall. Swift's younger brother, Austin, was also along for the fun.

After a Thanksgiving feast, Swift and her pals headed out to her windswept backyard beach for frolicking, piggyback rides, and cuddles in the cold. Then, they warmed up for an epic Mannequin Challenge entry set to Rae Sremmurd's "Black Beatles." Models Hunt, Donaldson, and McCarthy might've had a leg up, but Swift held her own.

If Thanksgiving (and the Mannequin Challenge) were a contest, Swift and squad are a tough group to beat.

Taylor Swift strikes a winning pose for a Mannequin Challenge to Rae Sremmurd's "Black Beatles."

Photo: @taylorswift

"Thanksgiving cuddles," Martha Hunt captioned this sweet snap with squad leader Taylor Swift.

Photo: @marthahunt

Taylor Swift wished her fans a "Happy Thanksgiving" with this postcard-perfect snap.

Photo: @taylorswift

We'd be this excited, too, if our backyard was a private beach like Swift's.

Photo: @taylorswift

Swift and squad know how to do a Thanksgiving spread right. Cheers, indeed.

Photo: @todrick

"Thankful for piggy back rides," Swift captioned this outtake with pal Lily Donaldson.

Photo: @taylorswift

This is what a Swift Squadsgiving looks like.

Photo: @marthahunt

Broadway star Todrick Hall was right on the nose (to nose) with his hilarious "Ebony & Ivory" caption.

Photo: @todrick

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This Cool-Girl Blogger Is The Hottest Thing In Dubai

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We’re just saying: Tala Samman, Dubai-based blogger of My Fash Diary, and Hannah Bronfman should be besties. A sick fashion sense? Check. Beauty junkies? Yup. Fit #bodygoals? Foodies? Moonlighting as DJs? Check, check, and check.

And if you need a tour guide for all the insider spots in Dubai, Samman, who was born in Chicago to Syrian parents, pretty much has this city on lock. Raised in the UAE her whole life, Samman was also the first fashion blogger in the region when she launched her site eight years ago.

“When I started my blog, it was the only one in the UAE,” she says. “It was a big deal because even though blogs were picking up in the States, Dubai was a few steps behind initially when it came to this whole industry.”

Starting off as a purely fashion site, My Fash Diary has since grown to include beauty, travel, food — and her Instagram also has some serious fitspiration. Oh yeah, and then there’s this whole DJing thing.

A regular at fashion events, and most recently the headlining DJ spinning for thousands at Zabeel Park at the city’s Electric Run, Samman said learning to DJ was something she even hid from her friends at first.

“I always wanted to learn how to DJ but I was always too shy to ask friends who were DJs because a lot of them are guys,” she said. “I don’t come from a very musical background, but two years ago, I ended up taking classes with a producer in Dubai at an academy that doesn’t exist here anymore. I remember him saying, ‘Girls never come here...it’s always just guys!'”

And when it comes to beauty, Samman says Middle Eastern women really know their stuff. “I feel like people don’t realize that Middle Eastern women are super savvy with their beauty,” she says. “Even people I know who don’t necessarily work in the beauty or fashion scene are savvier than people around the world when it comes to products. And they’re willing to spend on it — you’ll see more and more brands are getting stock here because there really is a demand for it.”

A regular on the scene, it’s hard to miss Samman with her violet locks (more on this in a bit), and covetable style. Ahead, the always-chic blogger shares some of the beauty must-haves in her makeup bag.

“I get my hair color done in Slam salon in Al-Quoz. I used to have an ashy ombré, but I started adding brights with Simona there. Last year, I went with purple and blue ends, and I just liked the purple. God knows how many colors are in here now — burgundy, blue, purple. I think I’ll keep it up until my mom says something.”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

“I’m so big on my nails but I never do my own, ever. I get them done every week — I have to make sure they’re perfect because I’m always doing shoots. I love to go to Art Bar in the Nail Spa in Jumeirah and the Mall of the Emirates. They do freehand art so sometimes I get fun things like cartoon characters. Once I even got Kimojis.”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

“I love illuminators. My favorite is Becca ’s. I’ll wear their liquid during the day and top it up with their pressed powder at night. Their pigments are so good and give me this dewy glow.”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

" Whenever I travel, I always carry eye-gel patches. I’m shy to put it on the plane, but I’ll stick them on when it’s dark. I like Eyeko ’s a lot — they really help me look refreshed.”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

“I only wear matte lips. I can’t touch anything sheer or glossy. I’ve tried every single brand. My go-tos are Kat Von D’s Lovesick, Anastasia’s Crush [Ed. note: An R29 Beauty Innovator Awards ' winner!] or Sepia if I want to go dark, and Huda Beauty’s Liquid Matte in Medusa that never leaves my lips cracked.”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

“I started getting weird allergies this year, so I switched to a more natural skin-care routine with Earth Tu Face products. I’ll also get really light facial treatments like a light milk peel from Rebecca Treston at EuroMed. It’s a five minute treatment I’ll do once every two weeks.”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

" We really lacked variety when it came to fitness studios in Dubai as recently as 2012. There was one studio that did pilates and I didn’t have any other option, which really frustrated me. I feel like now it’s super exciting because we have new fitness classes opening every month.

I get bored and lose motivation easily, so I try to mix up my workouts and throw in a little strength. I go to Machka in Jumeirah and work out with a trainer there, but I also love the barre classes at Physique57 and Define, a new studio here from Texas. We have Barry’s Bootcamp opening up here soon too!”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

“I’m obsessed with Drybar ’s products. I stock up on their Triple Sec 3-in-1 Texturizer when I go the States. I’m also really liking Ouai’s Texturizing Spray.”

Photo: Courtesy of Tala Samman.

Like this post? There's more. Get tons of beauty tips, tutorials, and news on the Refinery29 Beauty Facebook page. Like us on Facebook — we'll see you there!

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These Rad Ombré Brows Are Not For The Faint Of Heart

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We're riding the ombré wave wherever it takes us, including to these dreamy purple eyebrows. While the look may not be well-suited for every day — it takes a lot of time and effort — it's perfect for holiday parties, New Year's Eve celebrations, and anytime you want to break out of your comfort zone.

Watch the video above for the full look, then try it for yourself using the steps below.

Step 1. Work on one brow at a time. Brush your brows up and out, then lightly coat your first brow with white, cream shadow.

Step 2. While the product is still wet, apply a deep-purple powder shadow to the outer portion of the brow with a clean, stiff, small makeup brush.

Step 3. Apply a lighter shade of purple to the center of the brows, blending into the darker purple to maintain a soft transition.

Step 4. Finally, apply a pale-purple shadow to the inner third and blend the edges into the medium tone. Repeat on your other arch.

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A Week In NYC On A $300,000 Salary

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Welcome toMoney Diaries , where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar. (Thanks,New York mag , for the inspiration.)

Today, in honor of our Beauty Innovator Awards, a founder of a tech startup tracks her spending for a week.

Industry: Tech

Age: 38

Location: NY

Salary: $300K

Paycheck Amount (2x a month): ~$6,000

# of roommates: 4: my husband, two kids, and an au pair

Monthly Expenses

Rent: $4,500 total (for both my husband and me)

Loan Payments: $1,000

Utilities: $300

Transportation: $500 (Car and subway pass)

Phone Bill: $200

Health Insurance: $300

Savings: $3,000 (On a good month, give or take)

*All meals, unless otherwise stated, were eaten at home from groceries.

Day 1

10 a.m. — I buy some exercise equipment as a gift for a family member who needs this to stay healthy. $846.94

10:15 a.m. — I also buy some construction equipment as a gift for a family member’s business: $650.56

10:30 a.m. — I go on Amazon to buy some household goods in bulk. $96.05

12 p.m. — Bring my kids to a trampoline activity. $86.25

12:30 p.m. — Also buy some gluten-free baked goods for my kid who is on a special diet. $43.27

2 p.m. — Our subscription for ABCMouse, an educational site for my kid, is renewed. $7.95

4 p.m. — Afternoon tea/coffee. $3.21

6 p.m. — We take a taxi home. $5.44

9 p.m. — Amazon Prime, again. $12

Daily Total: $1,751.67

Day 2

9 a.m. — There are crazy days when I have to Uber to meetings and sometimes to the kids' school if I'm needed. Uber #1. $9.66

11 a.m. — Uber #2: $15.45

3 p.m. — Buy groceries for the family via Instacart. A lot of these are bulk items. $356.76

5 p.m. — Uber #3. $7.58

7 p.m. — Yet another Uber. $18.46

Daily Total: $407.91

Day 3

6 a.m. — I go to a SoulCycle class before work and take a taxi there. I pre-paid for these classes. $9.66

9 a.m. — Another Instacart grocery run. $97.97

6 p.m. — I take a Via home. $25

Daily Total: $132.63

Day 4

We didn’t spend money today! Just cooked with the groceries we bought earlier this week.

Daily Total: $0

Day 5

10 a.m. — We get groceries from Whole Foods. $276.17

4 p.m. — I put some money onto my MTA subway card. $20

6 p.m. — I pay the au pair for the week, plus the wire-transfer fee. $425

Daily Total: $721.17

Day 6

12 p.m. — I have a work lunch at a restaurant. $120.17

6 p.m. — A dinner treat for the kids. $100

8 p.m. — Snacks for the kids. $12.50

8:30 p.m. — Taxi home. $8.16

Daily Total: $240.83

Day 7

7 a.m. — I pay for my kids’ day care for the week. $315

10 a.m. — Buy some new workout gear. $53.27

11 a.m. — A quick snack ($20.71). Then, go pick up some groceries ($135.35) Total: $156.06

11:30 a.m. — I take the kids to the dentist. $54

12:30 p.m. — We get lunch. $13.07

3 p.m. — I buy some software for work. $148.40

Daily Total: $739.80

Money Diaries are meant to reflect individual diarists' experiences and do not necessarily reflect Refinery29’s point of view. Refinery29 in no way encourages illegal activity or harmful behavior.

The first step to getting your financial life in order is tracking what you spend — to try on your own, check out our guide to managing your money every day.

For more money diaries, click here.

Have a money diary you'd like to share? Email moneydiary@refinery29.com.

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Amazon's Cyber Monday 2016 Will Be Bigger Than Ever

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'Tis the season for doing all of your holiday shopping in a single afternoon without ever leaving the house. In other words, Cyber Monday 2016 is right around the corner. Holiday shopping budgets, rejoice!

Amazon has announced that throughout the week of Cyber Monday, it's rolling out more than 75,000 deals on apparel, electronics, books, and other merchandise to suit practically anyone on your gift list — pets included.

Okay, shoppers. Let's get in formation.

Bypass sticker shock and snap up big-ticket items at Cyber Monday prices, such as Amazon Fire TVs for $74.99, Sonos PLAY wireless speakers for $149, and HP wireless photo printers for $49.99.

Know anyone who hates vacuuming? iRobot Roombas will be $99 off.

Hate walking? Treat yo'self (or a loved one) to a Segway at 40% off.

No need to sweat the smaller items, either. For Lin-Manuel Miranda fans, Hamilton: The Revolution will be 25% off. Select video game titles, including Bioshock: The Collection will be anywhere from 33-50% off. For choosier folks on your list, select Anytime Gift Cards are $5 off.

Once you've made your list, let Amazon check it twice. Its Watch a Deal feature will send an alert when an item's price drops. So far, the most-watched item of the holidays is a Mermaid Tail Blanket, which comes in a rainbow of color options, so you can snap up coordinating fins for your whole squad.

In the meantime, pop over to Amazon Video. It's offering discounts on tons of TV shows and movies, which you'll be binging in all of the free time you've just gifted yourself.

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