It’s the Final Countdown: 14 Advent Calendars to Buy

Christmas will be here before we know it. Rather than letting the stress of holiday shopping, gift wrapping, menu planning, cooking and traveling get to you, it’s important to treat yourself daily. That’s the beauty of the advent calendar. We already found 30 advent calendars to DIY, but if you’re in the market for one that’s ready to go, you’re in luck. Whether you’re picking one up for the kids or treating yourself, we’ve got 14 advent calendars to bring a bit of holiday cheer, one mini-gift at a time.

1. Home for the Holidays Advent Calendar ($18): How adorbs are the illustrations on this woodland creature calendar? Instead of gifts, this one’s filled with tidbits of holiday trivia, which make perfect conversation starters.

2. Large Woodburned Advent Calendar ($139): Let’s just admire the time, talent and workmanship that went into creating each individual design of this gorgeous calendar.

3. TopShop Jewelry Advent Calendar ($45): Who doesn’t want to wake up to a new piece of jewelry every morning leading up to Christmas?

4. Goodie Bag Advent Calendar ($49): We’re compiling a list of mini treats to squeeze into this garland of burlap pouches. Any suggestions?

5. Benefit Cosmetics Candy Coated Countdown ($90): This set is a makeup maven’s dream. If you’re a long-time Benefit gal or looking to try some of their cult classics, this calendar is for you.

6. West Elm Village Advent Calendar ($24): Here’s a perfect way to house tiny holiday gifts. Create your own mini Christmas village with these colorful elf-sized homes.

7. The Best of The Body Shop Advent Calendar ($75): Keep your skin moisturized and smelling delicious all December long with this advent calendar from The Body Shop. With lotions, lip balms and body wash in scents like Glazed Apple and Frosted Cranberry (just to name a few), it’ll be hard to open one at a time.

8. Ciaté Mini Mani Manor Advent Calendar ($60): 24 highly pigmented, super glittery mini bottles of nail polish — if opening a window to a new color and sporting a different shade to the office becomes our new morning routine this December, we’d wake up a half hour earlier for that.

9. Starbucks 2014 Advent Calendar ($30): Adorable tins filled with Starbucks chocolates AND a $5 mini Starbucks gift card? Sign us up! (After all, we’ve been meaning to try the Chestnut Praline Latte.) Plus, we get to reuse the magnetic chalkboard and mini tins for craft supplies, spices or buttons.

10. Pottery Barn Telluride Natural Advent Calendar ($55): If it’s your baby’s first Christmas this year, this delicate advent calendar is meant to be hung in the nursery.

11. Topshop Nutcracker Advent Calendar ($30): Calling all charm collectors. You’ll twirl every day you open a new one to add to your bracelet with this countdown calendar.

12. The Land of Nod Silver + Gold Sterling Advent Calendar ($49): The different sized pockets of this children’s advent calendar let you get creative with which treats you’ll deliver each day. We love the metallic designs on each pocket.

13. Nostalgic Vintage Style Advent Calendar Set of 25 Paper Boxes ($29): Stack these handmade boxes any way you like, or include them in an Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt. Either way, they’re a lovely addition to your charming Christmas decor.

14. Jo Malone Advent Calendar ($392): While it’s a mega splurge, if luxury perfumes and lotions are your mojo, this advent calendar is for you. You’ll be set for the rest of 2015 with all the ultra-decadent treats tucked into these tiny drawers.

How are you counting down the holidays? Leave us a comment!

One of the hard facts of life is that sometimes you have to accept that your favorite Starbucks drink just doesn’t vibe with your wallet. But that doesn’t mean you have to swear off your coffee addiction altogether!

If you look hard enough, there’s actually a Starbucks hiding in your kitchen. Okay, not actually — that would be weird — but with a few ingredients, you can recreate your favorite treats with Starbucks hacks at home. From breakfast wraps to Frapps, here are the Starbucks copycat recipes you need to access all things Starbies at home.

Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

This Starbucks copycat recipe is still as gooey and sweet as the OG. Using all fresh ingredients to make these bars will make them even better than the drive-thru! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

This seasonal drink doesn't have to be just for the holidays anymore! Simply follow the copycat recipe and adjust the sweetness, type of milk, and garnishes how you like 'em. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Bacon & Gruyere Egg Bites

Starbucks' egg bites will always be famous. Recreate the best flavor at home with under 10 ingredients! (viaBrit + Co)

Starbucks Medicine Ball

The citrusy-sweet effect of this Starbucks copycat recipe will keep you company on sick days or cold winter nights. Plus, it's only 4 ingredients? Say less. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Lemon Loaf

There's no doubt that the lemon loaf is one of the best items on the Starbucks breakfast menu, but they can get pretty pricey once you start ordering them regularly. This copycat recipe yields a slice just as soft, sweet, and lemon-y! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Caramel Brûlée Latte

Now you can enjoy your go-to seasonal bev year-round! This caramel-infused Starbucks drink earns a dessert-y feel, which is perfect for pairing with bedtime. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Eggnog Latte

R.I.P. the original Eggnog Latte! Luckily, you can revive the now-discontinued drink right at home super easily with eggnog, espresso, and nutmeg. Add a splash of Baileys if you're feelin' fiesty! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Gotta love some shaken espresso for on-the-go! Start your mornings off strong with this intensely-caffeinated iced coffee that won't cost $6 each time you drink it.(via A Virtual Vegan)

Peach Green Tea

​One of our fave Starbucks hacks is asking for a splash of peach juice in our iced teas. As opposed to Starbucks' pre-made peach tea, this copycat recipe leverages ​fresh ​peaches for a ridiculously refreshing sip! (via Hello Little Home)

Starbucks Mushroom & Spinach Egg White Bites

The best thing about this Starbucks copycat recipe is that you can easily customize what goes into them. Instead of the expected mix of mushrooms and spinach, try adding bacon, sausage, cheese, peppers, and more. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Starbucks Iced Pistachio Latte

With this copycat cup, you'll first craft your very own pistachio syrup. It'll yield a ton of syrup that you can use for drinks in the future. It's a massive time-saver, plus it's tasty AF! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte

Make sure to brew an extra strong cup of espresso for this latte. The bitterness of the espresso strikes a not-too-sweet balance with the addition of brown sugar and cinnamon spice! It’s a more indulgent way to get your daily dose of caffeine. (via Diethood)

Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

These muffins are addictive! But, like anything you get from Starbucks, the money you spend will rack up quick. Opt to make an entire batch at home to last you and the fam weeks – instead of minutes. (via Averie Cooks)

Starbucks Petite Vanilla Scone

Use vanilla bean paste in this scone’s frosting for a punched-up dessert flavor. It’s one way to make your morning meal feel like a special treat! (viaCrazy For Crust)

Starbucks Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte

PSL season doesn't have to end in October! Keep all things pumpkin goin' past fall time with this easy copycat recipe. It uses pumpkin puree to keep the flavor fresh and authentic. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Healthy Homemade Strawberry Frappuccinos

You can have your strawberry Frappuccino and drink it too with this easy Starbucks copycat recipe. It’ll turn your post-gym smoothie into a healthy Frappuccino that only tastes like an indulgence! (via Desserts With Benefits)

Starbucks Copycat S’mores Frappuccino

This copycat S’mores Frappuccino recipe is like a quick camping trip... without all the bugs, dirt, and potentially inclement weather. Enjoy this chocolate-y drink in the comfort of your home, with ingredients you have in your pantry! (via Baking Beauty)

Pumpkin Scones

Not-too-sweet pumpkin scones get a double dose of vanilla icing in this Starbucks copycat recipe. One icing is plain and sweet, while the other packs a pumpkin-spiced punch. Now you can experience fall any time you want! (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Healthy Iced Coffee

This skinny vanilla iced coffee doesn’t require a trip to the store or Starbucks. It’s only three ingredients — coffee, your milk of choice, and vanilla extract. Yay, saving money! (via iFoodReal)

Copycat Starbucks Passion Tea Lemonade

The key to recreating passion tea lemonade in your home is Tazo Passion Tea bags. From there, all you need is lemonade and a dash of vanilla extract. (via Cincy Shopper)

Vanilla Iced Chai Latte

Jazzing up your chai with vanilla is such an easy idea. Plus, this make-at-home bev is only three ingredients and takes just over five minutes to make. Never wait for your name to be called out again. (via Mom Makes Dinner)

Starbucks Copycat Spinach Feta Wrap

Recreating this Starbucks wrap at home lets you add more ingredients that the original might lack. Add extra feta cheese or spinach to satisfy your morning cravings! Best of all, you can really taste the difference in freshness with this Starbucks copycat recipe. (via The Big Man’s World)

Oat Milk Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolates are classic – but there's no need to go spend $7 on a single drink when you have all you need to make one at home! Sugar, cocoa powder, water, salt, and oat milk make this sipper super easy. The marshmallows and shaved chocolate garnishes are optional, but we say go for it! (via Earthly Provisions)

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Lead image via Pink Owl Kitchen.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's relationship has captivated us throughout the years. Their story has love, family, loss, and of course, royalty. But how did the Duke and Duchess of Sussex come to be the powerful, independent couple they are today? Here's everything we know about the pair's relationship timeline, starting from the first time they met!

Mike Coppola / Getty Images for 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Gala

July 2016: Meghan and Harry meet

After initially meeting on Instagram (a classic plot point for 21st century relationships), Meghan and Harry met for a first date in London.

“I was scrolling through my feed and someone who was a friend had this video of the two of them [and Meghan], it was like a Snapchat,” Harry said of is digital introduction to Meghan in the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries. He remembers asking himself, "Who is that?"

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

November 2016: Meghan and Harry reveal they are officially dating

It was an official statement from Kensington Palace that confirmed Meghan and Harry's relationship.

At the time, Meghan faced mass amounts of sexist and racist backlash through the media for her association with the royal family. Kensington Palace denounced the hate in a statement:

“Some of this has been very public — the smear on the front page of a national newspaper; the racial undertones of comment pieces; and the outright sexism and racism of social media trolls and Web article comments,” the statement read. “Some of it has been hidden from the public — the nightly legal battles to keep defamatory stories out of papers; her mother having to struggle past photographers in order to get to her front door; the attempts of reporters and photographers to gain illegal entry to her home and the calls to police that followed; the substantial bribes offered by papers to her ex-boyfriends; the bombardment of nearly every friend, coworker, and loved one in her life.”

Despite the hate, Meghan and Harry persevered as a couple.

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

September 2017: Meghan shines a light on her relationship with Harry

Meghan revealed even more information about her connection with Harry in a Vanity Faircover story in September 2017.

“We’re a couple. We’re in love,” she told Vanity Fair. “I’m sure there will be a time when we have to come forward and present ourselves, and have stories to tell, but I hope what people will understand is that this is our time. This is for us. It’s part of what makes it so special, that it’s just ours. But we’re happy. Personally, I love a great love story.”

Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

November 2017: Meghan and Harry are engaged

Meghan officially moved to London in the fall of 2017 and the couple announced their engagement not long after.

Harry proposed to Meghan at Nottingham Cottage on the grounds of Kensington Palace with a ring made from two of Princess Diana's diamonds, and she said "yes" on the spot!

An official statement from the palace detailed their engagement further:

“His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle,” it read. “His Royal Highness and Ms. Markle became engaged in London earlier this month. Prince Harry has informed Her Majesty The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince Harry has also sought and received the blessing of Ms. Markle's parents.”

Meghan recalled the moment Harry proposed on the Harry & Meghan Netflix docuseries:

“He’s down on one knee and I was like, ‘Yes!’ I was so joyful and excited. I was like, ‘Ah we’re doing this."

Ben Birchall / Getty Images

May 2018: Meghan and Harry’s wedding

Meghan and Harry got married at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. They admitted a few years later that they had actually exchanged vows three days before they walked down the aisle, for the sake of privacy.

“No one knows that,” Meghan said in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. “We called the archbishop and just said, look, this thing, this spectacle is for the world, but we want our union between us, so the vows that we have framed in our room are just the two of us in our backyard with the archbishop of Canterbury.”

Millions of people tuned in for their televised wedding ceremony on May 19, 2018.

October 2018: Meghan announced her first pregnancy

On October 15, 2018, Kensington Palace released a statement informing the public that Meghan and Harry were expecting their first child the following spring.

The news broke while Meghan and Harry were on a 16-day royal tour through Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand. The pair returned home and settled in at Windsor Castle's Frogmore Cottage to start prepping for the baby.

Dominic Lipinski / Getty Images

May 2019: Meghan and Harry welcome their first child

The couple welcomed their first son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, on May 6, 2019."We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses’ son weighs 7lbs. 3oz," an Instagram post from @sussexroyal read. "The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives."

Chris Jackson / Getty Images

January 2020: The couple steps back from their roles in the royal family

After "many months" of deliberation, Meghan and Harry had decided to "transition" from the royal family in early 2020.

In an official statement, they shared their plans to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family, become financially independent from Her Majesty, and split time between the United States and United Kingdom.

"This geographic balance will enable us to raise our son with an appreciation for the royal tradition into which he was born, while also providing our family with the space to focus on the next chapter, including the launch of our new charitable entity," the statement read. "We look forward to sharing the full details of this exciting next step in due course, as we continue to collaborate with Her Majesty The Queen, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge and all relevant parties."

They moved to the U.S. a couple months later, staying in Montecito, California until they bought a home in Santa Barbara in the summer of 2020.

November 2020: Meghan announced she had a miscarriage with her second child

Meghan admitted she experienced a miscarriage with her second pregnancy, writing in a vulnerable New York Times op-ed essay that the loss of her second pregnancy with Prince Harry felt like “an almost unbearable grief.”

“I knew, as I clutched my firstborn child, that I was losing my second,” Meghan wrote. “Hours later, I lay in a hospital bed, holding my husband’s hand. I felt the clamminess of his palm and kissed his knuckles, wet from both our tears. Staring at the cold white walls, my eyes glazed over. I tried to imagine how we’d heal.”

March 2021: Interview with Oprah

The couple sat down for a very candidinterview with Oprah in March 2021, coming clean on multiple topics that had arose since living in the public eye. From Meghan’s mental health to the dynamic of the royal family – including the racism Meghan had experienced since becoming a member – they spoke honestly.

Yui Mok / Getty Images

June 2021: Meghan and Harry welcome their daughter, Lilibet

The pair publicly announced their second pregnancy in February 2021, welcoming their daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten Windsor, a few months later.

Lilibet was born on June 4, 2021 in Santa Barbara, California.

Kirsty O'Connor / Getty Images

June 2022: Meghan and Harry attend the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Meghan and Harry headed to Buckingham Palace for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, marking their first joint appearance in the U.K. in over two years at that point.

The two weren’t publicly mingling with other senior royalty in attendance, though they reportedly introduced Lilibet to the Queen in private during their trip.

"They aren't part of the [working] royal family anymore, and that's a decision they have taken — but maybe [the public] hasn't quite accepted that yet," a source close to the couple told Peoplein 2022. "Yes, they were low-key. They paid their respects and went home."

September 2022: Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral

Meghan and Harry were called to Windsor Castle on September 8, 2022, shortly after Queen Elizabeth II passed away at age 96.

They briefly reunited with Kate Middleton and Prince William to support the royal family amid the news. According to Kensington Palace, the rare meeting was actually William's idea, with a source noting that it "was an important show of unity at an incredibly difficult time for the family."

Sascha Schuermann / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

December 2022: The Harry & Meghan docuseries drops

The first volume Meghan & Harry Netflix docuseries hit screens on December 8, 2022. The pair addressed their full love story, their new family, and dived deeper on their reasons for distancing from the royal family in the three-part series.

Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images

March 2023: Meghan and Harry were told to leave their royal residence in the U.K.

Meghan and Harry were asked to “vacate” Frogmore Cottage in the spring of 2023.

"We can confirm The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been requested to vacate their residence at Frogmore Cottage," a spokesperson for the couple's Archewell Foundation told People.

Andrew Chin / Getty Images

January 2024: The truth comes to light about Queen Elizabeth’s blessing for Meghan and Harry’s daughter’s name

An inside source disputed the claim that the late Queen Elizabeth had not given Meghan and Harry her blessing to name their daughter after her known nickname, Lilibet.

“Meghan and Harry 100 percent got permission from the queen to use the name Lilibet,” the insider said. “The report is not true. [Harry and Meghan] don’t know where this is coming from...They’re shocked that this is coming now; it seems out of nowhere and out of left field. They just feel like it’s more of the same spear campaign that continues against them.”

Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation

March 2024: Meghan and Harry were in Austin, Texas for SXSW

Meghan was slated to speak on a South by Southwest panel for International Women’s Day 2024, so she and Harry traveled to Austin, Texas.

While they were in Austin, the couple had a date night at Soho House Austin.

“They were happy and in great spirits,” an eyewitness told People. “Harry was very animated throughout the dinner. They were super low key and seemed happy to be around the upbeat vibes at the lively venue.”

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Lead photo by Chris Jackson / Getty Images for Invictus Games Foundation.

Stop what you’re doing! Folks, Starbucks launched something spicy. Three all-new Refreshers with a spicy twist joined menus for a limited time starting April 16!

We’ve also finally got some intel on this year’s Starbucks summer menu!

Per menu leaks from popular foodie and inside source, @markie_devo, the Starbucks summer menu will introduce some pretty wacky drinks that include never-before-seen flavors and ingredients. In addition to 6 new summery sips, it appears Starbucks will introduce a few fruityfood items, too.

The new drinks and snacks on the Starbucks summer menu will allegedly hit stores on May 7. Scroll for everything on spicy Refreshers, plus what new items will be joining the rest of the Starbucks summer menu!

Take note that the Starbucks summer menu rumors are just rumors (at least for now), and have not been officially confirmed. Let’s get into it!

Starbucks Is Doing Something Spicy...

Image via Starbucks

Spicy Dragonfruit Refresher

Rumors about some spicy Starbucks Refreshers were floating around the internet after @markie_devo posted a potential lineup, but the news is now officially official per Starbucks!

The first drink (of three new Refreshers) is the Spicy Dragonfruit Refresher. The drink is your traditional fruity Refresher, except shaken with lemonade and a new Spicy Chili Powder Blend to bring a nice kick of flavor!

I got to try it out first thing on launch day, and I have got to say that the spice in this drink somehow makes this the most "dragonfruit" dragonfruit drink I’ve ever had from Starbucks. And it's good! Of course, I expected my sips to be spicy, but I underestimated just how much spice would be included. I personally think it’s such a nice balance between sweet and spicy, but I could see where it may be too much for non-spice-lovers.

The spicy Refreshers will be available for limited time and will be released in stores on April 16, 2024.

Image via Starbucks

Spicy Strawberry Refresher

The Spicy Strawberry Refresher looks the most refreshing of all the spicy Starbucks drinks. It's just the OG Strawberry Refresher base shaken with zesty lemonade, ice, fruit bits, and the chili spice blend.

When I ordered the Spicy Strawberry Refresher, I was not expecting it to come out an orange color. Though unexpected, the spice in the drink was spicing nonetheless, and I thought it was pretty good! I had sipped this one first out of all three, but it ends up last in my overall Refresher ranking. I think the other bevs do a better job at highlighting the fruit – in this one, the strawberry flavors were undoubtedly eclipsed by the chili spice blend.

I bet it'd be so heavenly if you ordered it blended with ice, so it becomes a nice slushy texture!

Image via Starbucks

Spicy Pineapple Refresher

I was most excited about this new Starbucks drink because in my opinion, pineapple and spice are a classic combo! I've eaten way too much Tajin-covered fruit in my lifetime, and I hoped for this drink to directly emulate those flavors! And y'all, it DELIVERED. 

​The drink is literally gorgeous. With the spice blend, the Pineapple Refresher takes on a orange-y hue, while the pieces of pineapple float at the top. Upon first sip, it tastes exactly like Tajin-covered fruit. I did notice that a lot of the spice blend sunk to the bottom of my cup, so I had to keep shaking it to mix it up. Not a big tradeoff though, for how deliciously fruity this drink is.

Image via Starbucks

Spicy Cream Cold Foam

Starbucks is also offering Spicy Cream Cold Foam starting April 16. It's crafted with Starbucks classic cold foam and their new Spicy Chili Powder Blend, and you can add it to any iced drink!

I tried the Spicy Cream Cold Foam atop an iced mocha. I had a vision, okay? I really wanted the chili and chocolate to blend together for a tasty Mexican chocolate feel. I admired the specks of spice in the cold foam before sipping down a swig. My first impression was that the spice isn't as intense in the cold foam as it is with the Refreshers – it honestly made the drink more enjoyable. The chocolate in the mocha made it so tasty, balancing everything out with lots of sweetness. I think the Spicy Cream Cold Foam could be an amazing addition to other sweet coffee drinks like these for those seeking coffee-based bevs.

My Review Of Starbucks Spicy Refreshers

Photos by Meredith Holser

Because of the intensity of the spice, I also think the new Spicy Refreshers work best as a slow sipper. I found that when I drank them quickly, the spice became overpowering, and honestly, unenjoyable after a time. I still need to try the Refreshers with alcohol, but I think adding a lil' splash of tequila for an easy summer cocktail is the move. I could take to the park or a friend's place on a nice weekend. 👀 I can tell these are gonna keep me up and goin’ through spring and summer!

What People Are Saying About The Spicy Starbucks Refreshers

Image via Starbucks

In the wake of brand-new spicy drinks at Starbucks, some customers were thrown off by the initial menu rumors that @markie_devo posted.

"🤮 kinda takes away the “refreshing” aspect lol," one person wrote. "But I guess people who like spicy stuff on fruit will be happy."

One Starbucks barista commented on the validity of the menu rumors, saying: "As someone who works at Starbucks, this isn’t fake, we got our chili powder in already 😃"

I'm excited to see how this pans out! Once the drinks hit stories, I'll taste-test the new Refreshers for myself and report back.

When does the Starbucks summer menu come out?

According to unconfirmed rumors posted online, the Starbucks summer menu is set to come out on May 7, 2024.

Does Starbucks have boba?

Photo by Telly Mina / PEXELS

Starbucks has never served boba nationwide before, but they did test it regionally for a brief period in late 2021. According to Tasting Table, only two Starbucks locations (one in California, one in Washington) tested out coffee boba pearls back then. The pearls were also popping boba (like the new summer drinks), but weren't received super well.

One person that tried the boba drinks in 2021 said the pearls were "really small and awkward to drink." People engaging in online discourse about the coffee boba pearls weren't happy about the attention and revenue the boba could potentially take away from small businesses serving authentic Taiwanese boba.

What's On The *Leaked* Starbucks Summer Menu

NEW! Summer-Berry Starbucks Refresher

The rumored Starbucks summer menu lists a brand-new line of iced Refresher drinks, with the Summer-Berry flavor leading! And... it has boba!

This alleged new sip is described as "a sweet summer blend of raspberry, blueberry and blackberry flavors mixed with water, lemonade or coconut milk and shaken with ice." It's poured over raspberry-flavored popping boba, which I expect would amp up the berry vibes even more!

NEW! Summer-Berry Lemonade Refresher

This next rumored sip is shaken with lemonade rather than water, which could give it a citrusy, zingy effect. Lemonade is the perfect bev for summertime, and I have a hunch it could pair really well with the rumored raspberry boba pearls.

NEW! Summer Skies Drink Refresher

The Starbucks summer menu rumors don't quite detail what the Summer Skies Refresher is, but based on the leaked images, I think it could just be the Summer-Berry Refresher with a splash of coconut milk, much like the Starbucks Pink Dink. It'll also include fruity boba! And based on the images, it appears Starbucks could supply wider green straws to help you sip up the pearls.

Image via Starbucks

White Chocolate Macadamia Cream Cold Brew

We've seen this drink on Starbucks menus before, and it's allegedly returning for summer 2024, which I am so excited about. The White Chocolate Macadamia Cream Cold Brew features "Starbucks signature cold brew sweetened with macadamia syrup, topped with a silky white-chocolate macadamia cream cold foam and finished with toasted cookie crumbles," according to Starbucks.

I feel like nutty flavors are more fit for fall, but it's nice that Starbucks is offering an option for the warmer months with this rumored returning iced coffee drink!

NEW! Orange Cream Cake Pop

The Starbucks summer menu rumors introduce a brand-new cake pop! The Orange Cream Cake Pop is described as "orange cream cake mixed with buttercream, dipped in chocolatey icing and finished with an orange slice design." The cute orange slice design honestly does it for me. I love an orange Dreamsicle, so I hope this Starbucks snack lives up to that standard!

NEW! Pineapple Cloud Cake

This rumored sweet snack is described as an "airy cake layered with a lightweight pineapple cream and pineapple spread with whole fruit pieces all topped with a sweet drizzle." It looks so yum.

What People Are Saying About The Rumored Starbucks Summer Menu

IG @markie_devo

The Starbucks summer menu rumors have sparked a fair amount of excitement online. A few commenters on @markie_devo's initial menu leak post said the proposed lineup looks appetizing and exciting.

"Now this looks good 💯🔥," one person wrote. "Finally something DIFFERENT," another said.

Some Starbucks fans were anticipating entirely different drinks for the summer menu, like the S'mores Frappuccino that came out in 2019.

"Where's the smores frapp😫," the first comment reads. "Wish they’d bring back the S’mores Frappuccino 😔," another wrote.

Starbucks isn't the first big coffee chain to add boba to their menu. Dunkin' had featured strawberry-flavored popping pearls on their menu back in 2021, and Dutch Bros just debuted their version in February 2024. Some Starbucks customers commenting on the menu rumors noticed this.

"Stole from Dutch lmao," one person wrote. "Dunkin did it first lol. But these are super interesting," another said.

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Images via @markie_devo on Instagram, Starbucks.

Taylor Swift loves to reference the past in her songs. Every new album adds another layer to a whole web of lore (as the kids say), and The Tortured Poets Department is no different! There are enough pop culture references to to keep you glued to Google for the whole weekend, which is why I read every single lyric to decode each movie and literary reference so you don't have to! Keep reading for the full scoop from our fearless leader: The Chairman of the Department ;).

Literary References In The Tortured Poets Department

Image via engin akyurt/Unsplash

Down Bad — "Did You Take All My Old Clothes, Just To Leave Me Here, Naked And Alone"

While "Down Bad" feels like a reference to aliens, it's also reminding us of the story of Adam and Eve, who were left naked in the Garden of Eden after eating the Fruit of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. The "experiments" Taylor Swift references in the first verse (plus the "Fortnight" music video) are also giving Mary Shelley/Frankenstein!

Image via Amazon

So Long, London — "You Left Me At The House By The Heath"

Hampstead Heath is a beautiful area of London that reportedly inspired C.S. Lewis to write The Chronicles of Narnia in the late 30s and early 40s. As Narnia's self-proclaimed biggest fan, I'm totally claiming this indirect literary reference, especially since the Pevensies have to stay at the Professor's house when they're evacuated from London.

Image via Amazon

I Hate It Here — "I Hate It Here So I Will Go To Secret Gardens In My Mind People Need A Key To Get To"

This Taylor Swift song is all about wishing she was somewhere else during an early period of her life, and referencing The Secret Garden makes total sense. In the book, lead character Mary has to access the Secret Garden to discover the hope, joy, and healing she's lost.

Image via İlknur ERDURAN/Pexels

thanK you aIMee — "I Pushed Each Boulder Up The Hill"

This seems to be another Greek mythology reference, this time to Sisyphus. He was forced by the gods to roll a boulder up a hill — and then do it again when it rolled back down. Considering this song seems to reference Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, and the drama that led to Reputation, it feels like a reference to the feud that rears its head over and over again.

Image via Robin Erino/Pexels

Cassandra — "So They Killed Cassandra First Cause She Feared The Worst And Tried To Tell The Town"

In Greek mythology, Cassandra (whose name means "she who entangles men," FYI) was a beautiful woman, and princess of Troy. The god Apollo falls in love with her, and gives her the power of prophecy — that is, until she rejects him and he turns the gift into a curse where no one believes her anymore.

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The Bolter — "She Fell Through The Ice, Then Came Out Alive"

This is another indirect literary reference I'm claiming that totally reminds me of Amy March from Little Women. Amy falls through the ice when the March sisters are all children living in Massachusetts. Fans have historically hated her character, which is tied to the "A curious child, ever reviled // By everyone except her own father" lyric.

Movie References In Taylor Swift's New Album

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My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys — "I Felt More When We Played Pretend Than With All The Kens"

The internet has claimed Taylor Swift as the real-world version of Barbie, and after last year's blockbuster hit (and Taylor referencing Ken in "Hits Different") we get another nod to our favorite doll. Plus, this song reminds me of Syd from Toy Story destroying his toys, and "he was my best friend down at the sandlot" got me thinking about The Sandlot. So many movie references, so little time!

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Guilty As Sin? — "How Can I Be Guilty As Sin?"

Taylor Swift wrote "Carolina" for the book-to-movie adaptation of Where The Crawdads Sing. In "Carolina," she sings that Kya's community has "said that I was guilty as sin and sleep in a liar’s bed.”

More Pop Culture References

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  • The Tortured Poets Department — Taylor Swift mentions poet & writer Dylan Thomas, singer-songwriter & poet Patti Smith, and American singer Charlie Puth, boygenius singer Lucy Dacus, producer Jack Antonoff.
  • But Daddy I Love Him — This is a line in both The Little Mermaid and The Notebook.
  • Florida!!! — Florence Welch is featured on this song, which mentions a hurricane. Florence + The Machine has a song titled "Hurricane Love."
  • Guilty As Sin? — Taylor also references "The Downtown Lights" by The Blue Nile, as well as the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus in The Bible.
  • Who's Afraid Of Little Old MeWho's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf revolves around a bitter and aging couple who weaponize the youth of their guests against one another.
  • loml — "The coward claimed he was a lion" is a reference to The Wizard of Oz, while "Mr. Steal Your Girl" is a Trey Songz track.
  • I Can Do It With A Broken Heart — This whole song is about Taylor Swift's Eras Tour.
  • The Alchemy + The Prophecy — In Taylor Swift's TIME interview, she references Harry Potter, which has huge themes around alchemy and prophecies.
  • Clara Bow — This song references Clara Bow, Stevie Nicks, and Taylor herself!
  • So High School — Taylor Swift Mentions video game Grand Theft Auto, Artistotle, and American Pie. She also mentions games like Kiss Marry Kill, Truth or Dare, and Spin the Bottle

Which of these pop culture references in The Tortured Poets Department is your favorite? Check out the latest news on the album here!

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Hearty dinner recipes are always going to be high on our list, but spring and summer tend to call for light lunch ideas to keep us energized and able to enjoy longer hours of sunshine everyday. I'll be the first to say that eating chicken pasta or pizza for lunch often makes me feel sluggish, so I try to stay away from them during the work day. Not only that, but I've noticed I feel better when I eat something that's a little fresher and healthier. If your summer plans include having as much energy as possible, here's 15 light lunch ideas to help you successfully get through your days!

Light Lunch Ideas: Tasty Salads

Chicken Tzatziki Avocado Salad

Light lunch ideas don't have to be tasteless just because they don't cause you to feel sleepy in the middle of the day. One of the best ways to enjoy something tasty is to make a Mediterranean dish. This chicken tzatziki avocado salad is full of season, roasted chicken, feta, kale, and creamy tahini sauce. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Farro

This recipe had us at goat cheese! If you haven't had a chance to try it yet, this roasted golden beet salad with farro is a great way to introduce it to your palate. It also features shallots, thyme, and honey to balance out the crunch you'll get from the almonds! (via Brit + Co)

Chicken Cobb Salad

Add this chicken cobb salad your list of non-complicated light lunch ideas! It's full of tasty ingredients like avocados, cherry tomatoes, and eggs that'll hit the spot during lunchtime. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry and Asparagus Salad with Chicken

Your salad needs an upgrade that involves lightweight fruit like strawberries. You can always exclude the chicken if you've been eating a meatless diet. (via Completely Delicious)

Feta Green Goddess Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken

We're not sure who made this rule but pasta salad just seems to be one of the light lunch ideas that works extremely well for summer. This recipe features a homemade green goddess dressing that lightly covers the delicious ingredients, making it one of our favorite meals. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Smashed Potato Spring Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing

We love that this smashed potato spring salad can be eaten during summer. The Creamy lemon dressing complements the butter lettuce, asparagus, and green onions that you'll happily devour. (via Two Peas and Their Pod)

Simple Cold Pasta Salad

Simple light lunch ideas are the stuff that our summer dreams are made of. After all, meals like this cold pasta salad are great alternatives if you're truly looking for something quick and lightweight. (via Barley and Sage)

Summer Sesame Noodles

Is it a salad or noodle dish? Maybe it's both! One thing we know is that you'll get a ton of healthy vegetables and noodles drizzled in a sauce that has sesame paste, vinegar, and more! (via Gastro Plant)

Light Lunch Ideas: Creative Sandwiches, Tacos, and Wraps 

Breakfast Bagel Sandwich with Smoked Salmon

Skipped breakfast? It happens to the best of us! Make up for it during lunch with this breakfast bagel sandwich with smoked salmon. Our mouths are already craving the herbed cream cheese that's on it. (via Vikalinka)

Smoked Turkey Sandwich with Spicy Mayo

Craving a smoked turkey sandwich that has a kick to it? Make this dish for lunch, but don't forget to bring something soothing to drink that'll help counter the mayo's spiciness! (via The Original Dish)

Tasty Tacos

Tacos Rancheros

This is technically another breakfast meal, but we like to think that some meals can double as light lunch ideas! This is a great option if you have to eat lunch early. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Kale Chicken Caesar Wraps

You've never had chicken caesar like this before. The dressing doesn't have a ton of calories so you'll get to eat something that's healthy and yummy! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Light Lunch Ideas: Veggies

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini

Our mouths are watering looking at this garlic parmesan zucchini dish! The fresh garlic and parmesan make for a dish that's full of hearty flavors without making you feel sluggish. (via The Endless Meal)

Mediterranean Sweet Potatoes

Although these aren't considered sweet potato boats, you can think of them that way thanks to their shape. The spicy chickpeas in the center offset the sweetness of the sweet potatoes while the feta adds a lightweight flavor. (via Cozy Cravings)

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

This roasted vegetable quinoa bowl is one of the best light lunch ideas we've come across and it's gluten-free! Not only does it feature sweet potatoes, but you'll also get to savor juicy yellow squash! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Follow us on Pinterest for more light lunch ideas to cook this summer!

Lead image via Vanilla and Bean