Creative Ways to Keep 5 Frequently Broken New Year’s Resolutions

As soon as the ball drops and the confetti flies through the air of parties across the globe like an ubiquitous snow storm of glitter, the self evaluation begins and New Year resolutions are declared. As good as our resolve is to craft chic DIY New Year’s headwear and whip up party-perfect food Champagne pairings, sometimes we struggle to follow through with our more serious resolutions. This New Year, we’re bringing you 20 products that will make you want to keep some of the most frequently broken New Year’s resolutions.

Getting healthy is on everyone’s mind today (champagne flutes in hand) but it’s also one of the most commonly broken ones after memories of midnight smooches begin to fade. Come on, we’ve all dealt with crowds at the gym in Jan only to be first in line for your fave treadmill come Feb. Arm yourself with the goods to keep those resolutions.

1. Heart bkr Bottle ($35): Start by bringing this water bottle with you to the gym. You’ll feel so sorry about abandoning it when your muscles get sore that you’ll keep up that new fitness regimen.

2. Cloud Leggings ($58): You’ll float through that hot yoga class in no time when you don these comfy and cool cloud leggings.

3. Hustlin’ Tote Bag ($24): Consider a dedicated gym bag as the ultimate hack towards keeping up that resolution. Even if its only purpose is for lugging your yoga mat, you’ll be inclined to use it. Load this tote with extra hair ties, a spare pair of socks, your running shoes and a little body spray for post-gym refreshes.

4. Fifty Shades of Kale ($20): Staying active is only half the battle. Give yourself some healthy eating inspo with this collection of veg-heavy recipes.

2. Learn Something New

How many times have you thought to yourself, “I wish I could learn Karate,” during your morning commute or, “I bet I could sew my own clothes if I really tried,” while trying on clothes that are way out of your price range? Incorporating a new hobby is a popular resolution, probably because learning new skills helps people improve their lives in a meaningful way. We might not have a class for an instant black belt and the self esteem that surely accompanies it, but we can help with other fulfilling lifestyle changes.

5. Sewing Online Class ($19): Breakout that old sewing machine that’s been collecting dust in the back of your closet, because, hell yes, you can make that trendy skirt or embellished tee.

6. Illustration With Watercolor Online Class ($19): That feeling that there just isn’t enough time in the day is a major factor in breaking self-improvement promises, but artistic endeavors can actually help you work through that stress. Break away from that catch-22 by learning the ins and outs of watercolors.

7. Coding Online Class ($39): Your new after-work, pre-happy-hour squeeze doesn’t have to seem frivolous. Teach yourself a marketable skill by learning to code in 2016. You can also tackle that secondary “get a new job” resolution at the same time.

3. Travel to New Places

Oh, the places you’ll go! Whether it’s a destination on the opposite side of the globe or a day trip to the next town over, stay inspired with these travel goodies.

8. Compass Wall Decal ($36): Visualize your goal with this directional reminder. Even if your next destination is a new coffee shop on the other side of town, you’ll find it hard not to visit someplace new.

9. Hand-Painted Sket1chbook ($26): You’ll definitely want to give this pretty notebook some love. Sketch out the views from the top of the Alps and on the edge of the Grand Canyon or, if drawing isn’t your thing, write a description of the tastiest morsels you nosh on in each place you visit.

10. Magnetic Photo Rope ($12): Hang up one of these magnetic photo displays and make it your goal to fill it up with the best shots from your travels by the end of 2016.

11. Travel Jewelry Organizer ($39): You’ll kick yourself if you don’t put this clever notebook-style jewelry box to good use, so pop it into a tote, backpack or suitcase and get on the go.

4. Be Less Stressed

Easier said than done, right? Start with two or three deep breaths, open your eyes and get ready for a little R&R.

12. Aroma Therapy Set ($18 per scent): Your sense of smell is kind of a huge deal when it comes to subtly effecting your mood. Pick up stress relief, relax, breathe scents and roll them on instead of reaching for a brown paper bag to hyperventilate into.

13. Shit Shirt ($24): They say that laughter is the best medicine, so if every moment feels like an “Oh shit” one, remind yourself to take it all a little less seriously with this LOL-worthy tee.

14. Disco Earbuds ($16): If the hustle and bustle of your day to day and construction next door interrupt your only moments to relax, block ’em out with your favorite tunes.

15. Vantigo Print ($30): Even if your window faces a wall, you can still wake up with a happy little view every morning. Hang up this adorable Golden Gate Bridge print somewhere prominent, and be sure to cross as many metaphorical bridges as possible this year.

5. Make + Save More Money

A vice is a vice, but some are worse than others. Financial resolutions are some of the easiest to make and break (especially after all that holiday spending). If you’re trying to kick bad habits to the curb, try rewarding yourself with these goodies.

16. Stash Drawstring Bag ($19): Turn old, rarely worn clothes into cash at the start of each season this year. This canvas bag can be a potential gold mine when you consign all of those lightly worn items.

17. Pastel Cutting Board + Utensils ($45): Eating out can be a major cash trap, so commit to making more meals at home. You’ll see a marked reduction in your weekly spending when you use this adorable kitchen set.

18. DIY Gold Bar Necklace Kit ($19): Curb your accessories spending budget by crafting pieces at home. Your creations will be extra unique, unlike those baubles that everyone else is wearing.

19. Cold Brew Coffee Kit ($32): Think about how much you could save if your main source of caffeine doesn’t include inflated prices for your name spelled wrong on a branded cup. When you brew your own coffee at home, you’ll be amazed at the extra cash you’ll find in your pockets.

Are you one of the 40 percent of Americans who make a New Year’s resolution each year? Sound off on Twitter @BritandCo.

Between work commitments, grocery runs, and coffee dates, it feels like we barely have time to even make it to the gym. So when we do actually get our gear and go amid all these responsibilities (hello, 2024 New Year’s resolution), who can blame us for simply wanting to skip straight to cardio, burn as many calories as we can in 30 minutes, and then bounce? Unfortunately, this is a super ill-advised way to exercise, because it means you’re skimping on an essential part of the workout routine: stretching. Although adding a warmupmight mean tacking an extra 20 minutes onto your workout (you can do it!), the numerous benefits should make integrating stretching into your gym time a no-brainer. Nichole Tipps — lead trainer for V Shred, a virtual fitness training program — offers us some insight about the importance of stretching.


Everything You Need To Know About Stretching During A Workout

1. Why to Stretch: It’s not just for gym rats. According to Tipps, all of us, no matter how athletically inclined, should be incorporating stretching into our schedules.

“Many people ignore stretching when working out or just as a daily routine,” she says. “Stretching has an array of health benefits that serve as building blocks for longevity and physical well-being.”

Stretching increases flexibility, which improves range of motion in addition to improving workouts, and it delays the effects of atrophy later in life. It also aids posture and relieves stress. In terms of exercising, stretching has advantages both pre- and post-workout.

“Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles and improves your circulation,” explains Tipps. Because of this, failing to stretch beforehand can result in injury, and neglecting to do it afterward can lead to enhanced soreness and a longer recovery period. You’re also making yourself more susceptible to pain, inflammation, and tension in general, Tipps warns.

2. When to Stretch: Most people are at least vaguely aware of the benefits of stretching, but a lot of confusion surrounds when to actually do it during a workout. Contrary to popular belief, the heavy-duty stretching should be reserved for when you’ve finished exercising.

“After your workout is a better time to stretch with more dedication,” Tipps confirms. “Your muscles are tense, and they are tired and stressed in a good way. So stretching can help relieve that tension and reduce the soreness that results from working a muscle.”

Allot 10-15 minutes for these post-sweat stretches. Before your workout, simply stretch lightly, keeping the time to less than 10 minutes.

“Ease your muscles into the idea that you will be challenging them to perform,” Tipps instructs.

3. What to Stretch: Both of these stretch seshes should always address your arms, legs, and back, regardless of what areas that workout focuses on.

“There are different parts to each of these areas, so concentrate on those that your workout calls for that day, but don’t neglect everything else altogether either,” advises Tipps. “Remember, a lot of workout routines include compound exercises, which are multi-joint movements that work several muscles at one time.”

Although stretching might initially seem like yet another chore to add to your to-do list, its benefits are invaluable enough to no longer ignore. As Tipps encourages, “Stretch regularly, and over time you will reap the benefits and maintain your mobility.”

How do you stretch when working out?

There are quite a few stretches you can do when working out depending on what your body needs. No matter what you end up going with, remember not to force it — stretching should, well, stretch your muscles, but it shouldn't be painful! Check out these Pro Tips To Reach Your 2024 Fitness Goals, The Best At-Home Workouts, and 9 Easy Stretches You Can Do To Exercise At Your Desk for more ideas!

Is it better to stretch during or after a workout?

Nichole Tipps recommends saving your more intense stretches for after a workout. But don't be afraid to do a few easy stretches beforehand!

What’s your favorite stretch during a workout? Let us know on social media!

This article has been updated.

All images via Brit + Co

I can give you two reasons why Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard's marriage sits high on my admiration list — Veronica Mars and Punk'd. I was in barely in middle school when these two stars graced my TV screen on their respective shows, but they've always stood out to me. Discovering they were dating just seemed to make sense in the grand scheme of good romantic pairings and — as we can see — it turns out Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard think so too.

From their first meet-cute that wasn't actually that cute to the ways they've loved each other through dark times, Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard almost make being in love look easy. Here's a breakdown of some of the most important moments of their relationship timeline.

Kristen Bell And Dax Shepard's Relationship Timeline:

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

2007: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Meet + Begin Dating

The couple haven't been shy about revealing their first time meeting was exactly love at first sight. Kristen Bell admitted during an Instagram Q&A in 2018 that they actually met at a party for producer Shauna Robertson. E! News recalled that the actress said, "2 weeks later I saw him at a hockey game and he asked for the gum in my mouth." Knowing Dax's personality, that actually checks out.

She also revealed his unconventional pickup line. "Truly, his first text to me was: ‘Hi. My name is Dax. I violated your privacy and got your number from Shauna. How do you feel about that,'' she remembered.

Though they did start dating, Kristen regularly trolls Dax about the time they briefly broke up. She told Popsugar, "He sat me down and said, 'I can't have this right now. I think you're wonderful, but I am still dating other people.' And then I, like, liquefied and fell to the ground, but I felt incredibly respected that he had the balls to tell me we weren't in the same place."

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images

2009: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Work As Co-Stars During Filming Of When in Rome

Who can forget the hilarious rom-com movie When in Rome? Kristen starred as the 'unlucky in love' main character Beth who finds herself being pursued by a handful of romantic prospects after she picks up coins from a fountain that's supposed to grant love those who dare to take from it. Dax played the role of Gale, a model who was very into himself, and it was funny watching them interact on-screen.

According to People, the couple got engaged shortly after filming ended.

Image via Rick Diamond/Getty Images for CMT

August 2012: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Work Together Again On Set Of Hit & Run

Written by Dax Shepard, Hit & Run revolved around a former getaway driver's attempt to flee his past while making sure his girlfriend makes it to her job interview on time. The couple reprised their romantic relationship onscreen and continued to prove that they work really well together.

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images

November 2012: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Announce They're Expecting Baby No. 1

A source relayed the news to People in 2012 by sharing the following statement, "They’re so excited — they’re both ecstatic. They can’t wait to become parents." They also shared that Kristen had been dealing with a bit of morning sickness, but she started doing better as time passed.

March 28, 2013: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard's First Daughter Arrives

Several months later, Kristen gave birth birth to her and Dax's first daughter, Lincoln Bell Shepard.

Image via Jason Merritt/Getty Images

June 2013: Kristen Bell Pops The Question To Dax Shepard

In 2013, People shared that Kristen proposed to Dax Shepard after The Supreme Court overturned California's Prop 8 that was meant to ban same-sex marriage.

October 2013: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Tie The Knot

The couple celebrated their union by exchanging vows at a courthouse. Kristen previously told People they didn't want a grand celebration and they managed to keep their word.

Image via Kevin Winter/Getty Images

June 2014: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Prepare For Baby No. 2's Arrival

The couple happily announced they were growing their family in 2014 via their rep's statement to People. "I can confirm that Kristen and Dax are expecting their second child and a sibling for Lincoln," the rep shared. They also touched on how much their family was looking forward to the arrival of a new bundle of joy.

December 2014: The Couple's Second Daughter Is Born

Finally, the couple welcomed their second daughter, Delta Bell Shepard, before Christmas in 2014.

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

2017: Dax Shepard And Kristen Bell Star in CHiPS

A couple who works together, stays together — at least that seems to apply Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard. They starred together again in the movie CHiPS, but Kristen starred as Dax's ex-wife this time.

Image via Michael Buckner/Getty Images for FIJI Water

September 1, 2018: Kristen Bell And Dax Shepard Celebrate His Sobriety Journey

Dax Shepard has never been ashamed to talk about his sobriety journey and shared a personal moment with that made him question everything He appeared on Blake Griffin's podcast, The Pursuit of Healthiness to talk about his struggles in 2021. "What I would do is I would get sober for movies. I cared more about movies — it was the only thing I was more addicted to was being in movies — and so I would get sober for movies and then in between movies it was getting more and more dangerous," he recalled.

It wasn't until he caught a glimpse of himself in a mirror during a trip to Hawaii that he realized something was wrong. He remembered thinking, "I have every single thing I've ever wanted, and I'm at my lowest point emotionally and something has got to be very broken about that. If I have everything I said was going to make me feel good and I feel terrible, I've got to look at some other thing."

To celebrate her husband's commitment to remaining sober, Kristen wrote a heartfelt message on Instagram to encourage him to keep going. "I'm so proud that you have never been ashamed of your story, but instead shared it widely, with the hope it might inspire someone else to become the best version of themselves...I love you more than I ever thought I could love anyone, and I want you to know, I see you. I see how hard you work," a portion of the lengthy message reads.

Addiction in any form is never easy to navigate so we admire how much Kristen's been supportive of Dax.

Image via John Sciulli:Getty Images for UNICEF

February 2019: Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard Launch A Baby Brand

Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard decided to launch Hello Bello— a brand with everything from diapers to sun and bug protection — for several reasons. "I want something that's going to fill my soul. I want access to be able to give a lot of stuff away just as gifts, as a way of saying thank you for existing in this hard time called parenting," she told People in 2021.

Image via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

September 2023: Kristen Bell And Dax Share The Secret To Their Happy Marriage

It's no doubt that Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard have experienced a lot throughout their marriage, but they've managed to stay the course. Kristen actually shared some amazing advice for other couples during a conversation with Entertainment Tonight that we're thinking about applying to our own relationships. "Common goals, seek them out," she stressed.

The other thing she feels is crucial to making a relationship work is truly seeing and valuing your partner as a person. "Understanding that your partner used to be a little person is the best thing you can do. Sometimes if we're ever on the verge of a fight, one of us will say — it's usually Dax — 'I feel like 8-year-old Dax right now.' And I'm able to see him like I see my kids, which is in a very different way and go, 'Oh yeah, you're a little person that had trauma and triggers and it's not about me,'" she added.

That's powerful because it can be hard to remember that it's not just about you in a relationship. We don't think people intentionally mean to be selfish, but it can be happen and the key is to acknowledge it instead of doubling down on a particular stance that may not be helpful in the heat of an argument.

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Lead image via John Sciulli/Getty Images for UNICEF

Here we are in 2024 when we will learn how to embrace the idea of transformation and understand the importance of releasing the clutches of old security. This new moon in Capricorn on January 11 will be the essential cosmic ingredient we need to take ownership of our goals while living the most authentic way.

If you lack motivation or are just getting out of the fog of this past holiday season, I've got good news for you. This new moon will catalyze you to power up your 2024 resolutions. Think of Capricorn season as the guiding force for you to become ambitious while holding onto a dash of humility. Remember when Mercury retrograde happened last month? The good news is that the messenger planet is officially direct, and the new moon will clear the way for you to see what is stirring your passion while giving you the grit to power up your plans.

There is a lot of planetary action happening in the skies on this day, and the good news is these planets are fully supportive and magical for this lunation to be supportive. Whether you are ready to fuel your endeavors, ignite momentum into your life purpose, or have the courage to say hello to your crush or renew the fires of your relationship... you are ready for this! Let's dive deep and see what is in store for you.

What's Happening in the Skies during the New Moon in Capricorn?

  • Moon conjunct Pluto
  • Moon conjunct Part of Fortune
  • Moon square North Node
  • Moon sextile Uranus
  • Venus trine Chiron
  • Mars trine Jupiter
  • Saturn sextile Jupiter

As a part of the new moon event, this will require you to let go of what is weighing you down the most. This has been a recurring theme with the last few new and full moons because Pluto has been taking the main stage. Today, you will see the clearest of what needs to be done to expedite the changes in your life. With the new moon in alignment with Pluto, this will be the stepping stone in you seeing clearly what needs to be released. New moons are the cosmic source for you to plant seeds and manifest, but the part most often overlooked in these practices is that it requires letting go. Pluto will be on your side as it will help you cleanse your mental, spiritual, and physical space to make room for your desired shifts. But this requires you to work hard, or this involves you to make a significant decision. Pluto requires an edge of sacrifice. Even though it may feel scary, think of this as an opportunity for you to rewrite your story (like the song "Unwritten").

There will be a stroke of luck in alignment with this new moon as the point in the chart known as Part of Fortune will grant grace to your next steps. This takes unwavering optimism and courage on your part to support your venture. You will see a sliver of promise and even an outrageous idea, but it seems to work as you lean toward it with trust and belief. Just go with it.

The new moon will also intensify as it faces off the North Node, the guiding light in our dharmic path and, as I call it, the uncharted territory in your life. These two cosmic forces will feel like a pressure cooker, which will involve reviewing security and taking ownership of your life. Saturn, the moon sign ruler, in a supportive position with Jupiter, will reveal the solution for you while helping you feel grounded in alignment with your next move. You do you.

The new moon in Capricorn will encourage you to pay attention to your dream life or goals while helping you understand what is required to see it take root. Guess what? You will receive a boost of inspiration and channel in your ability to invite your desired goals with the Moon and Uranus in a supportive position. Uranus will enable you to become original, embrace the idea of liberation, and learn how to become detached from the outcome. Enjoy the process and become the artist of your life. Becoming open to change will help you be in the right place and time. Chance encounters or synchronistic events on this day will likely happen as you become receptive to the Universe's message.

Finally, there is a message for you regarding your love life during this cosmic event. The love and sex planets Venus and Mars will play an integral part during this new moon. The great news is that if you are contemplating rekindling the fires of your relationship, this will heal your love story. Lamenting on past losses will only hold you back from experiencing personal growth and strength. Investing in yourself by going through inner work with love will allow you to attract meaningful connections that result in harmony and restoration. This new moon will also breathe life into your will to achieve your love goals. Single or taken, you will feel a pull to initiate spice into your love life. It can be by designating date nights or going to more singles mixers to boost your chances of meeting bae. The new moon in Capricorn promises an outlet of powerful changes in love as you stray from settling-get off that couch and begin to chart out your ideal love life. This time around, the magic will begin.

To understand how this cathartic new moon in Capricorn will impact you, read on for your sun, moon, and rising signs.

Aries:

You stand between your past and future during this new moon in Capricorn. Explore your potential and take steps forward guided by your passion involving work and your legacy. For you, achievement is often tied to being unapologetic rather than impressing others. As you map out your path for this lunation, focus on what fulfills you, disregarding outside expectations. Make your mark, staying true to yourself amidst external pressures.

Taurus:

With Jupiter direct in your sign, it's a call for you to live up to your promise. This could mean pursuing a dream, broadening horizons, or making concrete plans. The new moon in Capricorn urges you to ignite your dreams while undergoing substantial growth. Revise outdated goals that left stagnant results. Ask yourself what changes you desire, and review what steps will help get you there.

Gemini:

Navigating a cloud of uncertainty since last month, Mercury's retrograde threw curveballs in your romantic or partnership dealings. The new moon in Capricorn encourages you to boldly look to the future, letting go of expectations and creating achievable goals. Look deep within and analyze your inner state of beliefs. This new moon will enable you to clear out and understand what you need to cultivate tangible results.

Cancer:

The new moon in Capricorn will help elevate your relationship status or initiate changes in your love life. Get out of your comfort zone and name your terms! Step up and initiate that desired spiciness in the bedroom-it will deepen the intimacy with your partner. Measure the state of your energy as you collaborate with others, and use this moment to see who supports your ventures.

Leo:

Focus on organizing your life and work surroundings. This new moon will illuminate the state of your progress involving work. See what is hindering you energetically. Observe your immediate surroundings and assess what is lowering your vibration. Detox, visit a metaphysical shop, or try a sound bath for balance.

Virgo:

Mercury's retrograde last month may have left uncertainty regarding your home life plans. The great news is that the new moon in Capricorn prompts commitment to plans despite past concerns. Focus on loved ones and what truly brings you joy. It is a fertile time to expand your family or plant a seed leading to incredible creative ventures.

Libra:

This new moon will highlight the need to clarify what fulfills you emotionally. Reconnect with your inner self while confiding with those who make you feel safe. Focus on deeper commitments concerning home, family, and honoring your roots. Build a ritual commemorating your past heartaches or those you have lost to help you become stronger.

Scorpio:

There will be an upsurge of ideas during this lunation, and grounding your dreams requires discipline and focus. Mars in Capricorn will extend that support to you, leading by your passion and not holding back. Use this time to plan, organize, and take practical steps toward your goals. Focus on improving communication, honing skills, and open-minded to new ideas.

Sagittarius:

Jupiter's sextile with Saturn offers an opportunity to bring your vision closer to reality. Consider investing time and resources into priorities that align with your future vision. Budgeting and mindful spending will ensure success. Focus on sustainability and believe that you have what it takes to succeed.

Capricorn:

As the new moon falls in your sign, it's a chance for a fresh start and self-reflection. Appreciate the changes you've undergone and envision loftier goals. Embrace transformation while being true to yourself. Use this time to set an example by embracing your unfiltered self.

Aquarius:

The new moon in Capricorn urges reflection and letting go of what no longer serves you. This year, Pluto entering your sign hints at significant changes. Reflect on outgrown aspects of your life and seek alternative ways to cope with current circumstances. Review and clear out your subconscious patterns by beginning journaling, therapy, or meditation.

Pisces:

This new moon in Capricorn will help align your aspirations with practicality. Jupiter's sextile with Saturn emphasizes making dreams achievable. Consider your heartfelt hopes for the future and translate them into practical goals—power up your manifestation game by visualizing your dreams taking shape seamlessly.

If you wish to discover how astrology can help you find peace, fulfillment, and clarity, click here to download Lumi’s free Astrology 101 eBook. And stay tuned next month for more astrological forecasts for your zodiac sign.

Once summer rolls around, strawberries take center stage, which means strawberry desserts are the highlight of the season. From classics like strawberry shortcake to innovative creations like strawberry s’mores, these 32 strawberry desserts push the boundaries of that fruity, juicy flavor we all know and love. Get ready to indulge!

Strawberry Freakshakes

Think of this recipe as your traditional strawberry milkshake, but leveled-up beyond compare. The "freak" label for these decadent shakes is entirely accurate, as they get loaded with sugar, ice cream, donuts, whipped cream, and of course, rainbow sprinkles. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Donuts

These strawberry donuts earn a healthy (or well, healthier) edge by using whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and Greek yogurt. Don't worry though – they're still as sweet as ever, and they'll be super tasty alongside some coffee for a nice morning treat! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Tart

This tart looks impressive, but it's not all that hard to execute. Get your hands on just 5 ingredients – store-bought pastry dough and custard help expedite the process – and you'll be well on your way to strawberry, dessert-y goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Chia Oatmeal Cookies

Turns out, you can eat cookies for breakfast! These strawberry-filled lil' bites serve as a quick power-up with fruit, oats, and chia seeds. You can even pack a few in your lunchbox for a healthy mid-day snack sesh. (via Brit + Co)

Boozy Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

These skewered strawberry desserts would make a fun Friday night activity to share with your boo! Simply soak some fresh berries in pink champagne overnight, then assemble them onto skewers before dipping them right into a dark chocolate bath and garnishing with more chocolate and crushed pistachios! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Lemon Cookies

Strawberries and lemons are a match made in flavor heaven, and these easy cookies (they only take 20 minutes) deliver a strawberry lemonade-type taste. Summer, here we come! (via The Edgy Veg)

Chocolate Strawberry Cake

We are salivating for this chocolatey cake! The cakey layers are quite simple to make, then you'll use fresh strawberries for the mid-layer and as a beautiful garnish. Don't you dare forget to add that creamy chocolate ganache! (via Give Recipes)

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is an absolute classic! This recipe makes a few simple swaps (like whole wheat flour instead of regular, and maple syrup instead of white sugar) to make each and every bite a tad bit lighter than your traditional take. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Dark Chocolate Strawberry S'mores

You haven't lived until you've tried putting fresh strawberries on your s'mores. Just look at that gooey goodness! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Peanut Butter Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Once you learn how to make this sweet strawberry frosting, you'll wanna put it on everything you make, from cupcakes to cookies. And yes, even this nutty peanut butter cake! Pile it on real high. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

The crunchy coating on these strawberry shortcake-inspired ice cream bars is exactly why you need to make them this summer. It's comprised of brown Rice Krispie pieces and freeze-dried strawberries to add some variety in texture, and wow, is it delicious! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb makes an excellent partner to strawberries. Case in point: this no-frills, uber-fresh pie with an impressive lattice crust! (via Completely Delicious)

Strawberry Cocoa

This sip is like if you combined a strawberry shake and hot chocolate into one. It's so dreamy! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Chocolate Strawberry Hi-Hat Cupcakes

That cross-section, though! These rich chocolate cupcakes are piled high with strawberry Swiss meringue buttercream icing. Once they're iced, they're dipped in even more chocolate to form a satisfying outer shell. (via Butternut Bakery)

Strawberry Fudge with Marshmallow Fluff

These strawberry fudge bites are just perfect for a little Valentine's Day dessert. This recipe surely doesn't shy away from sugar! (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Matcha Madeleines

Matcha, chocolate, and strawberries?! We are totally swooning over these tiny strawberry desserts. While the madeleine cookies are soft and airy, the dark chocolate layer on the outside provides a nice crunch, contrasting the textures and flavors in each bite. (via The Original Dish)

Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies

Strawberry cake mix makes these strawberry desserts so much quicker, but they don't skimp on flavor at all. If you want to take things up a notch, try adding some fresh strawberries on top! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

These Rice Krispie treats would make our child selves go crazy. You'll only need four ingredients to make 'em: freeze-dried strawberries, cereal, marshmallows, and butter, so they're a good dessert to make if you don't have a lot of ingredients on-hand and don't feel up to baking! (via The Endless Meal)

Chocolate Strawberry Mock-tini

This non-alcoholic, dairy free martini is decadence at its finest. You'll create your very own chocolate coconut simple syrup before concocting a mix of cashew milk, strawberries, and swirls of melted chocolate. (via Chef Bai)

Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Strawberry Jam

We all need more brownie recipes in our life, right? These rich bars are instantly elevated by a homemade strawberry jam that you'll likely have leftovers of to put on toasts, sandwiches, and more strawberry desserts! (via Two Spoons)

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

Although this recipe's a bit more breakfast-y, it still qualifies as dessert in our minds because it's loaded to the brim with a super-sweet cream cheese filling and sweetened strawberries worthy of the dessert table. Plus, there's plenty of syrup to go around! (via Live Eat Learn)

Homemade Strawberry Pop Tarts

These strawberry desserts are snack-worthy in the morning, afternoon, and as a late night snack, of course! If you thought store-bought Pop Tarts were good, just wait 'til you make them for yourself with fresh strawberries. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Strawberry Cheesecake Vatrushka Buns

The strawberry cheesecake filling stuffed into these airy buns is to die for! Prep a batch for a fun cafe-themed party, or keep the half-dozen all to yourself for morningtime bliss. (via Vikalinka)

Strawberry Banana Bread

Banana bread is a total lifesaver when it comes to using those overripe bananas sitting out on your counter, and it gets even better once strawberries enter the mix! This recipe is moist, sweet, and perfect as a little treat. (via Averie Cooks)

Vegan Strawberry Cupcakes

Looking for vegan strawberry desserts? Your search is over with these vegan strawberry cupcakes covered in vegan whipped cream. Add some more fresh berries for full effect! (via Earthly Provisions)

Strawberry Scones

Dare to make your local coffee shop jealous with these homemade scones using strawberries. Once you're done baking them, you'll cover each one with a delicious strawberry cream cheese frosting for maximum flavor. (via Most Hungry)

Strawberry Rhubarb Galette

Sweet galette recipes are our weakness. They're so sweet and shareable, plus this one in particular is a good way to start using all your farmer's market produce! (via Amanda Wilens)

2-Ingredient Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

Simply blend some frozen strawberries and bananas together, and you've got a sweet treat that can fulfill your cravings for creamy ice cream! For even more dessert vibes, top this recipe with sprinkles, Oreos, or chocolate syrup, Or all three. We'd do it, too. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Strawberry Chocolate Mint Smoothies

The addition of mint leaves takes this sweet sipper to a whole new level. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Strawberry Jelly No-Bake Cheesecake

Have you ever seen a cheesecake so beautiful?! Plus, this one requires zero baking, making it the perfect pick for hot summers. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Strawberry Macarons

If you're up to the challenge, making macarons yourself can be so rewarding. Each of these little sweet sandwiches is filled with strawberry jam and a cheesecake-inspired icing. (via Barley & Sage)

Vegan Fruity Pebble Cheesecake

Colorful, fruity, and sweet? Say no more. This Fruity Pebbles cheesecake just earned the top spot on our "to-bake" list!(via No Eggs or Ham)

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Lead image via The Endless Meal.

There are a number of TV shows in the running for best teen drama. I'm ready to press play on The Summer I Turned Pretty, One Tree Hill, and The Vampire Diaries at any given moment, but there is nothing like watching Friday Night Lights season 1. It might not be as glamorous as Gossip Girl, but that's exactly why it resonates so deeply when you watch it — FNL both highlights and honors viewers' real-world experiences because the characters are SO relatable. Instead of leaving you envious of a fictional life, Friday Night Lights welcomes you into a community you feel like you already know.


Image via NBC

Everyone in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas lives and breathes football, and Friday Night Lights season 1 opens just before the first game of the season. Right off the bat, we're introduced to characters that both evoke emotion and spark our curiosity, and we're told exactly where they are in their lives: new head coach Eric Taylor is struggling to win the town's confidence. Fullback Tim Riggins struggles both with motivation and against confident running back Smash Williams. All-American quarterback Jason Street has dreams of playing in the NFL while timid Matt Saracen takes care of his grandmother during the afternoon and serves as second-string quarterback at night.

Not to mention the fact that when I watched Friday Night Lights for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how compelling and multi-dimensional the women are. Tami Taylor has the perfect blend of motherly love and the kind of Southern sass that puts you in your place. Minka Kelly's Lyla Garrity is one of my favorite TV characters of all time because she might be wealthy and popular, but she evades "The Curse of the Brunette" that seems to plague early 2000s leading ladies. Instead of turning into a manipulative mean girl like the high school versions of Blair Waldorf and Brooke Davis, Lyla is just kind. Does she still make insanely bad decisions (like kissing her boyfriend's best friend)? Yes, but aren't bad decisions a right of passage when you're 17?

The show's initial plots and character arcs revolve heavily around football, but the sport really just serves as a funnel for all the off-field drama. The tension between the characters makes their gameplay even more passionate — and when Street gets seriously injured during that first game of the season, the town rallies together in a way that highlights how strong a community can bond in the face of tragedy.

Image via NBC

Life in middle-class America can be tough, but it can also be really, really sweet. While I'm neither from Texas nor have attended the kind of football school Dillon High is, the contrast between the characters' responsibilities and the fun that comes with parties and joining your friends at the local burger joint resonates with me every time I rewatch.

Even the fact the show is named Friday Night Lights emphasizes that contrast because it shows just how much of a spotlight is on these kids, and how much weight is on their shoulders when they're truly just trying to survive their teenage years.

Rather than providing an escape from viewers' realities like Outer Banks does, Friday Night Lights season 1 emphasizes the realities of juggling multiple jobs, school, and family responsibility that a lot of viewers experience too. It allows you to understand the characters in a really personal way — and feel like you're a part of the community too. The world can seem so big and scary (now more than ever), which is why the simplicity of Friday Night Lights totally redefines comfort TV.

What's your standout moment from Friday Night Lights season 1? Check out why Gilmore Girls Season 7 Wasn't Supposed To Be The Final Chapter for even more TV show musings!

Lead image via NBC