11 Unique Holiday Decor Ideas for Christmas Lights

Dec 03, 2021

'Tis the season to deck your halls with all manner of twinkling string lights. You can't go wrong with a few strands wrapped around your tree and windows, but if you're looking to switch things up this year, these unique holiday decor ideas will help you get lit in the most festive way possible.

String lights are as versatile as they are festive, and there are endless ways to use them in every room of your house. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your space with a cheerymarquee light, jazz up your mantel with terrariums full of fairy lights, or spruce up your bar cart with a handful of glittering garlands, these 17 string light ideas will help you set the scene in no time.

DIY Bar Light Sign

Show your guests where the party’s really at with this sparkly sign. This DIY is v. impressive and affordable. All you need are a few inexpensive materials, like wood and a strand of string lights. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Vintage Car Christmas Marquee

Your mantel doesn’t need anything else! Just a Porsche, a tree, and enough space to shine. (via A Beautiful Mess)

DIY Copper Lighted Wreaths

Twinkle, twinkle, little wreaths. Pick up a few copper pieces at the hardware store and wrap them up with string lights for a fancy-yet-minimal piece of wall decor. You’ll have to get creative about where you hide the battery packs, but you can’t go wrong with a mini bucket or a forest of bottle brush trees. (via A Bubbly Life)

DIY Snow Lights

If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas this year, it’s time to pull out the scissors and get to work. Get the kiddos to help you cut out paper snowflakes for this easy DIY string light makeover. (via Brit + Co)

DIY Christmas Light Marquee Sign

The best way to make your holiday cheer known is to spell it out in bright lights and big glitter. (via A Beautiful Mess)

LED Metal Leaf Garland

This delicate garland shines on its own but looks just as good wrapped around your tree. You could even combine a few of them to create an enchanted forest canopy. (via West Elm, $31, was $45)

DIY String Lights Garland

Craft a lovely leaf light garland that you’ll find yourself reusing over and over again. It makes a lovely mantel decoration, but you could also use it for parties and events. It’s not Christmas-specific, so there’s no judgment when you leave this decor up way past New Year’s. (via The Merrythought)

DIY Holiday Vignettes

Wrap LED twinkle lights in a glass lantern or cloche to create a unique centerpiece for your table or mantel. Accessorize away with mini bottle brush trees, tiny village houses, or that mini airstream advent calendar you just made. (via A Beautiful Mess)

DIY Constellation Wall Art

Star light, star bright, this is the star you need on your wall tonight. Take the string lights to your gallery wall by turning them into your personal zodiac constellation. The best part? You don’t have to take it down when the holidays are over. (via Brit + Co)

Minty Fresh Tree Wreath

Make a delicate statement with your wreath by only lighting the trees at the center of it. You’re drawing the eye in toward all that fabulousness, without overwhelming all the decor around it. (via PMQ for two)

DIY Light Box Marquee

A glittery light box with a festive greeting can virtually replace a lamp. And it’s so much more fun. If you love the idea of a marquee sign, but you don’t have the time or materials, this is a quick alternative that looks just as awesome sitting on your mantel. (via A Beautiful Mess)

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Creative DIY Birthday Card Ideas Your Friends Will Love

As cute and clever as store-bought greeting cards are, there's something incredibly thoughtful that can be felt in a homemade birthday card from a friend or loved one. Not only does the act of creating DIY birthday cardsgive you the chance to slow down from the business of life and reflect on what you cherish most about the people you're celebrating, but the one-of-a-kind touch will be super memorable for your recipients as well.

Even if you're not the craftiest person, don't fret, because we've put together a straightforward guide on how to craft your own DIY birthday card for your besties and S.O.'s. Step into the world of DIY magic as we embark on a quest to create birthday cards that will leave your recipients in awe. From unexpected pop-up surprises to mind-bending interactive features, discover fresh ways to make birthday cards burst with fun and excitement. Prepare to unleash your inner artist as we dive into all the tips to help you craft unique and captivating birthday cards. And keep reading for some thoughtful text ideas to ensure that your birthday wishes are just as fun as the card design they're on.

Step 1: Gather Your DIY Birthday Card Supplies

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

Before embarking on your DIY birthday card adventure, gathering all the necessary supplies is essential. A well-prepared crafter is a confident crafter! So, let's make sure you have everything you need to bring your imaginative card ideas to life.

Start with colored cardstock or paper as the foundation of your cards. Choose a variety of vibrant hues to suit different themes and moods. Scissors are your trusty sidekick, enabling you to precisely cut out shapes, create borders, and trim your cardstock.
Grab glue or adhesive tape to hold everything together securely. Opt for a glue stick for a mess-free experience or double-sided tape for a clean and seamless finish.
Round up all the art supplies you have, from markers and colored pencils, or pens. These magical tools will be your gateway to adding personalized messages, whimsical doodles, and vibrant colors to your DIY creations.
Stock up on a dazzling array of embellishments for an added dose of flair and personality. Let your creativity soar as you explore the boundless possibilities of stickers, sequins, ribbons, twines, buttons, beads, and more. Watch your creations come alive with vibrant colors, textures, and eye-catching details. With these delightful elements at your fingertips, there's no limit to the magic your birthday cards can be infused with.

Step 2: Choose Your Card Design

Image via George Dolgikh/Pexels

The card design will function as the first impression that sets the tone for the entire experience. A well-designed card can evoke emotions ranging from joy and excitement to nostalgia and warmth, leaving friends and family in awe of the thoughtful gesture.

Handmade Watercolor Design:

Express your artistic side by creating a handmade watercolor masterpiece for a genuinely one-of-a-kind birthday card. Start with a blank cardstock or watercolor paper as the base, and let your creativity flow. Use watercolors to paint a vibrant and personalized design, such as flowers, balloons, or a recipient's favorite hobby or color palette. Add a heartfelt birthday message inside to complete the card.

Pop-Up Surprise:

Add an element of surprise and delight to your card with a pop-up feature. Cut out a simple pop-up mechanism using cardstock or colored paper and attach it to the inside of the card. Then, unleash your creativity by designing and cutting out fun shapes, such as cakes, candles, or balloons, and attach them to the pop-up mechanism. When the card is opened, the surprise element will make the birthday celebration of your loved one even more memorable.

Quilled Creations:

Quilling is a paper art technique that involves rolling and shaping thin paper strips to create intricate designs. Use quilling techniques to create beautiful and delicate patterns, flowers, or even personalized messages on your birthday cards. Experiment with different colors and shapes to bring your design to life and make it truly unique. The recipient will appreciate the time and effort put into crafting such an elegant and artistic card.

Hand-Stitched Greeting:

Consider incorporating those skills into your DIY card if you enjoy sewing or embroidery. Use a needle and thread to create hand-stitched designs or patterns on fabric or cardstock. You can stitch the recipient's name, a birthday message, or even cute motifs like balloons or cupcakes. The texture and charm of a hand-stitched card will make it a cherished keepsake.

Interactive Slider Card:

Create an interactive slider card to take your birthday card to the next level. Use cardstock to make a slider mechanism that reveals a hidden message or image as it is pulled. Write a heartfelt message or attach a memorable photo that slides out when the recipient pulls the tab. This interactive element adds a playful touch to your card and makes it truly engaging.

Step 3: Write A Clever Message

Image via June/Pexels

Elevate your birthday card by personalizing it with a heartfelt note to enrich the receiver's experience. Share warm wishes, inside jokes, or memories that make the card even more special and meaningful. Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas for what to write inside your DIY birthday card!

"Happy birthday, queen of the hashtags! May your day be as fabulous as your Instagram feed."
"You're the avocado to my toast, the squad to my goals. Happy birthday, superstar!"
"It's your birthday, so let's turn up the 'Lit' level and celebrate like it's 1999... or 2023!"
"Birthdays are nature's way of telling us to eat more cake. Enjoy your special day!"
"May your birthday be filled with good vibes and a bottomless brunch. Cheers to another fabulous year!"
"Sending you birthday wishes with all the heart emojis. You deserve all the love and happiness today and always."
"Happy birthday to my favorite extremely online friend. May your Wi-Fi always be strong and your battery never die."
"Time to celebrate another trip around the sun. Let's make this year even more epic than the last!"
"You're not getting older, you're leveling up! Happy birthday, gamer!"
"Happy birthday, trendsetter! May your day be filled with selfie-worthy moments and viral-worthy adventures."

Step 4: Add The Perfect Finishing Touch

Brit + Co

As a bonus, consider creating a DIY envelope to complete the package. Choose decorative paper or repurpose materials like magazine pages or fabric scraps to craft a unique envelope that adds creativity and thoughtfulness to your handmade card. Personalize it by adding hand-drawn designs, stamps, or calligraphy for an extra special touch.

So, there you have it! DIY birthday cards offer endless possibilities for fun, creativity, and the chance to unleash your imagination. With just a few simple steps, you can create customized and sincere cards that will bring joy to your loved ones on their special day. Remember, the beauty of DIY is that there are no limits or rules. Let your creativity run wild, experiment with different techniques, colors, and textures, and, most importantly, have fun. Happy crafting!

For more crafty ideas, check out all of our DIY ideas on Brit + Co.

“Emily In Paris” Trades France For This Uber-Romantic European Destination

After Emily in Paris season 3 dropped on Netflix in December of 2022, we were hoping to get the fourth installment of the hit show in 2023. But production halted when the WGA writers' strike, then the SAG-AFTRA actors' strike went to affect, and our beloved cast and crew campaigned for better wages and industry protection. But with the end of the writers' strike, and new SAG negotiations, Emily in Paris season 4 finally began production in February 2024 — and I can already tell you there's sure to be plenty of drama and French fashion this time around.

Not only will we see Emily in Paris (see what I did there?!) but she's also pulling an Audrey Hepburn and taking a little Roman Holiday. That's right — our favorite Parisians are heading to Italy! If that doesn't sound like a dreamy comfort show then I don't know what does. Here's everything we know about the upcoming season of your favorite TV brain candy!!

Is Emily in Paris season 4 coming soon?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Via Variety, Emily in Paris season 4 began production in Paris the week of January 15! "Did someone say Saison Quatre?!" Lily Collins says in her Instagram post announcing production. "Finally reunited with my @emilyinparis fam back in Paris and it feels so good. Although, I may need to brush up on my selfie skills for Emily’s sake…"

But this year won't be a normal year of filming for the show (although, because of COVID, what does "normal filming" even mean anymore?). Because of the 2024 Paris Olympics, all filming in the city will be shut down from June to September. Netflix's co-CEO just spilled on the release date (via The Hollywood Reporter) and great news — it's sooner than I expected! Alongside the new seasons of Squid Game and Outer Banks, we'll see Emily in Paris season 4 before the end of the year. I'm hoping for a fall release because Emily in Paris is the perfect escapist show for hibernation season, but season 2 and season 3 both premiered in December of their respective years so we could also see it just in time for the holidays!

Is Emily in Paris filmed in Paris?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Yes, Emily in Paris is filmed on location in Paris! We got our first look at Emily in Paris season 4 when Lily Collins and Ashley Park were seen filming in the City of Love (via Daily Mail). The costumes for the series are still as bold and bright as ever, with Ashley's Mindy wearing cobalt and metallic boots, and Lily's Emily dressed head-to-toe in lemon yellow. I can't wait to see what these best friends get up to this season! Check out our Paris travel recommendations to live out your own Emily in Paris dreams ;).

On April 27, Lily Collins confirmed Emily in Paris season 4 had wrapped its France shoot and that the cast & crew have swapped the City of Love for the Eternal City! "When you’re the first ones on the dance floor at the Paris wrap party. Next stop: Rome!" she says on Instagram. Late spring is literally the perfect time to film in Italy and I just know this season is going to give me more wanderlust than ever before. I need gelato!

What's Emily In Paris season 4 about?

Image via Netflix

Season 3 left us with a huge cliffhanger: Alfie breaks up with Emily, Camille learns she's pregnant with Gabriel's baby, Benoit's "Mon Soleil" has been chosen for the Eurovision Song Contest, and Emily and Gabriel realize they've been in love with each other the whole time. Whew.

Emily in Paris season 4 will have a ton of cliffhangers to bring full circle, and a bunch of damage that all the characters need to heal. We know from the Netflix TUDUM fan event that we might also see Emily have to deal with an ultimatum head-on, as well as an unexpected twist. Plus, it looks like she's heading on a "Roman holiday," according to lead actress Lily Collins. We'll take any nod to an Audrey Hepburn movie, please and thank you!

Is Alfie coming back in season 4 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Netflix

We don't have OFFICIAL word on whether Alfie (played by Lucien Laviscount) will return for Emily in Paris season 4, but we're hoping for his sake that he gets some closure. Lucien wants to come back as well! "[The dream is] to keep this gravy train going and just to kind of really live in this world a little bit longer," he says in an interview with Elle. " The writers on the show and the creators behind it and everyone that comes into contact with it is so amazing and fantastic. Their minds [have] way, way, way, way surpassed mine. So, yeah. I’ll let them do their thing.”

Who else is in the Emily in Paris season 4 cast?

Image via Netflix

We can expect the rest of the cast — Lily Collins as Emily, Lucas Bravo as Gabriel, Ashley Park as Mindy, Camille Razat as Camille, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu as Sylvie, Samuel Arnold as Julian, and Bruno Gouery as Luc — to return.

Will there be a season 5 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

It looks like Emily in Paris season 4 will not be the final season, according to creator Darren Star. “There’s a lot more story to tell here and we’re not wrapping things up anytime soon,” Star tells Elle. “And also hopefully season four isn’t the end either. I feel like we’re all creatively feeling like we’re in the middle of something not heading towards the end.”

Darren also told Deadline season 4 is "not necessarily conceived as a final chapter. I think like every other show, it’s a rich ensemble. There’s no end in sight until everybody feels like it’s time to end. And I don’t think this show is limited by a number of seasons, I think it’s limited by everybody’s enthusiasm and excitement about doing it and telling stories about these characters."

We'll take as many seasons of Emily in Paris as they'll give us!!

What has the cast said about Emily in Paris season 4?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

Lucas Bravo told People he's excited for a coming-of-age for Gabriel. "When you start a character, then there's a year where you experience the world and you mature, you become another person and you come back and it's exactly the day you left off," he says. "I'm happy that in season four I'll be able to bring more of what I became and what I've experienced in the past four years."

Even though Lily Collins is now an executive producer, she doesn't want to know TOO much about the future of the show. “Darren and I speak, on occasion, about where he’s thinking of going, but he also doesn’t wanna spoil too much for me because there is a fine line,” she tells Collider. “I don’t wanna know everything because I want to be led with the writing, but I am also curious because, as a producer wanting to celebrate the other characters, I’m very curious to see what their trajectories are."

What happened at the end of Emily in Paris season 3?

Image via Netflix

To be fully prepared for Emily in Paris season 4, it's important to remember just what happened during season 3! The junior season was a bumpy ride for Emily, and it ends with the craziest finale yet. After Camille and Gabriel decide to get married, Camille stops the wedding, saying she knows Gabriel is in love with Emily instead of her. This declaration leads Alfie to break up with our leading lady because he refuses to be her second choice (and honestly, I respect it). That's not the only shocker because Camille also reveals that she's pregnant with Gabriel's child, which comes as a surprise to everyone. Meanwhile, Mindy learns Benoit has submitted a song (specifically "Mon Soleil") to the Eurovision Song Contest and Laurent has his heart set on opening a club in Paris.

Are you excited for Emily in Paris Season 4? Give us your craziest theory in the comments, and check out our Facebook for more pop culture news. Read up on how This Emily In Paris Theory Could Be Why Emily And Gabriel Aren’t Together (Yet).

Lead image via Netflix.

This post has been updated.

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These Honey-Lemon Chicken Thighs Will Blow Your Mind

Sure, chicken breastsare healthy and versatile, but let's be real: the thighs are the real winner. They're cheaper, juicier, and more flavorful, yet they're often overlooked. Why not give them the love they deserve?

Enter these crispy Honey-Lemon Chicken Thighs with a yummy, easy pan sauce. Quick, easy, and involving a single skillet and everyday ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those who haven't yet learned their way around a thigh. The best part? They're super versatile. If you want a tangier flavor, add more lemon. If you prefer a more savory dish, ease up on the honey.

Serve with your favorite veggies, and you've got four meals full of crispy, finger-lickin' chicken deliciousness in less than 45 minutes. Say hello to your new weeknight favorite: Honey-Lemon Chicken Thighs.

Ingredients for Honey-Lemon Chicken Thighs

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
salt and pepper, to taste
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
5-6 cloves garlic, peeled
1 tablespoon butter
juice of half of a lemon
1 1/2 tablespoons honey
1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, stems removed and chopped

Directions for Honey-Lemon Chicken Thighs

Pre-heat the oven to 425 degrees F. Pat chicken thighs dry, and season with salt and pepper on both sides. Drizzle olive oil over the skin sides.
Set a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until very browned and crispy, about 15 minutes. Readjust them about 5 minutes through so the fat touches the skillet and coats it with liquid.
Remove the skillet from heat, and scatter garlic beside the chicken. Place the skillet in the oven until the chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
When the chicken is cooked through, set it on a separate plate, leaving the garlic and juices in the skillet. Add butter, lemon juice, and honey to the skillet, and stir, scraping off the browned bits, over low heat. When combined, replace the chicken, and spoon the sauce over the thighs. Garnish with parsley.

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Photos by Sara Cagle / Brit + Co.

This post has been updated.

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12 Vibrant Summer Nail Colors To Inspire Your Next Mani

Now that flowers are starting to bloom, it’s due time to swap out the sad beiges and dark burgundies of your winter color palette with bright pinks, electric blues, and more. If you love a little paint on your nails at all times, these summer nail colors instantly evoke the carefree, childlike, and wondrous qualities of the best season around: summertime. ☀️

Essie 'Break It Sundown'

This orange feels like the epitome of a summer sunset. We can always count on Essie's vegan polish to deliver an opaque, satisfying wash of color, so this bottle will go a long way for your most colorful summer manis.

OPI 'Teal the Cows Come Home'

This summer nail color reminds us of crystal-clear pool water, so if you need that kind of energy in your life, go bold with a teal-blue.

Nailboo 'Amethyst' Gel Polish

It's giving "Lavender Haze," and we're obsessed. This shimmery shade is made from a gel formulation, so it goes on nice and smooth, and will last for a while. You could try layering it on top of another basic shade or style it on its own.

Nailboo 'Pink Lemonade' Gel Polish

Barbie would be proud of this summer nail color, for sure. Namely titled 'Pink Lemonade,' this vibrant pink hue is a nice refreshment for your nails and to welcome the warmer months.

PaintLab 'Fruity' Press-On Nails

It's time for a fun and flirty summer. Start the season off right by decking out your nails in some playful nail art, like these tiny little rainbow fruits from PaintLab! Some small silver gems join the party for extra stunning shine.

PLA 'Oopsie Daisy'

This pale yellow polish pairs extremely well with a tan. You can snag it in a gel formula or a regular polish, depending on how you like your summer manicures!

Nailboo 'Blueberry Milk' Gel Polish

First, there was latte makeup. Then, there were blueberry milk nails. This luxurious polish from Nailboo serves up a gorgeous wash of light blue with a slight purple tone for added visual interest.

Glamnetic 'Jelly Bean' Short Press-On Nails

Can't land on one summer nail color? Choose some tips like these that feature a few! You'll adore the practicality of the short almond shape, all while marveling at the colorful magic on your nails. Take only 5 minutes to apply these nails, then wear them for weeks!

Nailboo 'Cutecumber' Gel Polish

Your next summer mani is gonna be lookin' as cute as a cucumber with just a few layers this light green shade. The gel formulation ensures you get solid wear for days or even weeks. Vacay, here we come!

PaintLab 'Daisy Pink' Press-On Nails

Reflect the season's best blooms with these cutesy press-ons that have dotted daisies on them. The pink background just screams 'hot girl summer.' Putting these nail tips on is made easy with an included cuticle pusher, nail file, and tube of nail glue.

PLA 'Okay, Bloomer'

This easygoing lilac nail color delivers a super-shiny effect when you pair it with a nice clear top coat. Though pastels feel more spring-like, they're sure to look stunning even in the summer.

Chillhouse '90's Supermodel' Chill Tips

These eye-catching press-ons will help you paint the town red. Get out there and start testing the red nail theory for yourself. This nail kit comes complete with everything you need to stick the tips on, including a compact cuticle pusher, nail file, and nail glue. The best part is you can wear 'em over and over again.

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The Best Running Shoes For Every Type Of Runner, According To A Literal Marathoner

As the weather warms up and more and more people take to the streets and trails to pick up jogging or training for their next race, you might be wondering where to start your own running journey. As a lifelong runner, 4x marathoner, and former running store employee, I believe that finding the the best running shoes for you is the first step to falling in love with running.

There are a few things to look for when buying a running shoe. If you want the personalized experience, I recommend going to a run specialty store to get fitted and have your gait analyzed. However, here are some basic tips to help if you don’t want to do that.

Image via MarathonFoto.com

First, most people wear their running shoes too small. Almost everyone I have had to fit for running shoes for the first time has had to go a half to a full size up. Remember:

Running shoes do not stretch like leather shoes
Running shoes should notneed a break in period
Your feet do swell when you're running and walking

A good rule to follow is that you should have a finger tip’s length between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This ensures your feet can swell properly, you won’t lose toenails, and you'll have less risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis and shin splints.

Next, there are two types of running shoes: neutral and stability shoes.

Neutral shoes are for people who do not overpronate
Stability shoes are for those who do overpronate.

Overpronation is when one’s arches and ankles collapse/roll inwards when standing on one leg, running, or walking. If you have low arches or flat feet, you will likely need a stability shoe as it will provide better arch support. Many people assume that if you have high arches you need a stability shoe with more arch support, but this is rarely the case. If you have a high arch and a neutral gait (no overpronation), you should let your feet and ankles do the work and not rely on a stability shoe. Luckily there are dozens of options for both types of feet, so let’s get into some of my favorites.

Best Running Shoes For Neutral Runners

Brooks Glycerin 21

The Glycerin 21 is a popular, highly-cushioned running shoe from Brooks. The Glycerin has become a fan favorite for its soft feel and unmatched bounce. Plus, being in its 21st iteration, you can feel secure knowing that the Glycerin has served runners well for years.

Best Running Shoes For Stability Runners

Asics GT 2000 12

The Asics GT 2000 version 12 is a lightweight and bouncy stability option from Asics. Many stability shoes feel heavy and clunky, but Asics has found a way to alleviate overpronation without sacrificing lightweight performance

Best Running Shoes For Trail Running

Brooks Cascadia 17

If you’re looking to hit the trails for a run, getting a shoe with better traction and grip is the best option. Trail shoes have lugs on the outsole that help with stabilizing your feet on wet rocks and slick mud. The Brooks Cascadia is a no frills, do it all shoe that will make trail miles fly by in comfort.

Best Running Shoes For A Lightweight Option

Hoka Mach 6

Whether you're doing sprints on the treadmill or have a 5k goal race in mind, a lightweight running shoe may be the best option for you. The Hoka Mach 6 is a neutral running shoe that weighs less than most shoes on the market, making it perfect if you want to pick up the pace or feel less weighed down.

Best Running Shoes For Looks

On Cloudeclipse

Although this is super subjective, I think On has some of the best looking running shoes out there. With a chunky midsole and a unique look, the On Cloudeclipse delivers on fashion and function. While this shoe may be categorized as neutral, there are stability elements, such as a plastic speedboard to add rigidity to the foam, making it a great shoe for people with all arch types.

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Header image via MarathonFoto.com

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