Latest news with #Hallmark
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
After ‘Christmas at Sea,' Will There Be a Hallmark Cruise Movie?
All aboard the ship of every holiday lover's dreams! Hallmark's new docuseries, Christmas at Sea, chronicles the network's first-ever Hallmark Christmas Cruise and features some of your favorite Hallmark stars. Hallmark icons Tyler Hynes and Wes Brown were among the stars who took part in the inaugural cruise and had a life-changing experience alongside Hallmark fans. Hynes told TV Insider that the cruise was a place of pure 'warmth and joy.' He added, 'To kind of have this traveling circus where we all get to go around together and make these memories, it's unlike anything that I can think of, and I don't know that it's going to last forever, so I'm just deeply grateful to participate while we can.' Brown recognizes that there's 'never been a fandom like this before.' He revealed that there are '73,000 people on the waiting list for this [year's] cruise.' The actor admitted that he's 'just never seen that many smiles and that many joyous people. And I am being quite serious.' When he entered through the terminal to get on board, he noticed 'people decked out in Christmas gear, just screaming their heads off like we were rock and roll stars.' And everyone kept that energy on the boat. Hynes even got the opportunity to take his boot shot tradition to the high seas. 'It's something that I had hoped maybe it would make some few people happy,' he said. 'The fact that it's grown and it's become this very organized thing, it's beyond anything I'm capable of, and again, has everything to do with the audience who participates and really light that fire.' Hallmark Media / Kim Nunneley The four-part series covers the first Hallmark Christmas Cruise, and there's already another one in the works. Let's hope this means we get Christmas at Sea Season 2! 'There's lots of footage that no one ever saw, let alone the chaos of the different camera crews running around catching us in the audience are doing our live performances on stage,' Hynes said. 'There's probably some ridiculousness there that that didn't fall into this documentary series that should be like a part five and six.' TV Insider also asked Hynes and Brown about any changes they'd made for the second sail, and they had some very clear ideas. 'More shirtless Andrew Walker, maybe three microphones for Jonathan Bennett, and maybe have a live feed into everybody's cabins so that they can't escape his voice,' Hynes joked. 'It was pretty perfect. The games we play, the audience participation, the fact that folks have organized doing a boot shot tradition all together at one end of the ship. I love not knowing what's going to happen. It's fun to be a little naughty and just go do your thing. Working with people that are in front of you, and take it moment to moment. There's nothing I would change, except for shirtless Andrew Walker, Paul's been working out a lot. Maybe his shirt needs to come off.' Brown revealed that a few more music shows will likely be added. 'I may play with a couple other guys. Erin Cahill's husband, Paul Freeman, talked about doing something together. So I think we're going to just add some more show elements to it. I haven't been told everything, but I'm certain it's going to be another blast.' Now that Hallmark fans have gotten the Christmas at Sea docuseries, could we get a holiday movie set on a cruise? 'I feel like it would almost be weird if we didn't now,' Brown admitted. 'If it doesn't exist, I think it's coming,' Hynes teased. 'I think there's a Christmas cruise movie coming, and I think the person who you'd want in that is the person you will get.' , Mondays, 8/7c, Hallmark Channel Solve the daily Crossword
NZ Herald
2 days ago
- General
- NZ Herald
The relationship advice couples counsellors swear by
1. Managing your differences is crucial Many factors determine whether a partnership is a happy one, but the central task of a relationship is learning to manage differences, according to Anthony Chambers, a psychologist and the chief academic officer of the Family Institute at Northwestern University. Chambers believes that getting good at managing differences – whether over daily annoyances, or bigger expectations, desires and communication preferences – boils down to three things: flexibility, curiosity and humility. Flexible couples 'approach interactions not with the perspective of trying to prove that they are right and their partner is wrong, but rather with the mindset of realising there are multiple ways we can address our differences,' Chambers said, adding that partners 'need to keep in mind that there is a low correlation between being right and being happy!' Couples who are good at managing their inevitable differences tend to experience higher relationship satisfaction, he said. Couples who aren't struggle. It's not the stuff of Hallmark cards, but it is foundational. 2. Bouncing back is a skill Couples who argue can still be quite happy and connected if they are good at 'repair,' or reconnecting after conflict, said Lauren Fogel Mersy, a psychologist and sex therapist based in Minnesota, and co-author of Desire: An Inclusive Guide to Navigating Libido Differences in Relationships. Repair is all about processing what happened and coming back from it in healthy, effective ways, she said. Her clients often take for granted that they are good at repair, but it is actually a skill people need to learn. Partners have different ways they like to regroup after a disagreement. For instance, do you generally like to take a cool-down break? Does physical touch tend to help or make things worse? Are your apologies genuine and effective? You and your partner might not necessarily need the same repair, but talking about your preferences in calmer moments can help foster understanding when conflict inevitably arises. 3. Feelings more than facts Proving that you're right might feel like a worthy and satisfying goal in the midst of a disagreement. But couples who get overly focused on facts can easily get stuck in an attack-defend pattern, said Alexandra Solomon, a psychologist in Illinois and the author of Loving Bravely. It ultimately serves the relationship more to try to get curious about what your partner is feeling and why they might be viewing a particular situation so differently from you, she said. 'When we focus on the facts, we are primed for debate, it's me versus you,' Solomon explained. 'When we focus on the feelings, we're primed for dialogue.' 4. Taking turns is an overlooked skill Parents and teachers spend a lot of time teaching young children how to take turns during playtime and conversation, but couples often forget that very basic skill, said Julie Menanno, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Bozeman, Montana, and the author of Secure Love. It sounds simple, but couples who neglect to take turns have a tendency to start talking over each other, Menanno said. 'Nobody's being heard. Nobody's listening. Everybody's taking the mic,' she said, adding that couples 'get stuck in whose needs matter more and who gets to hurt the most'. Every couple she works with has to learn or relearn how to take turns, Menanno said. Some basics: look to have conversations when you're feeling calm and regulated, listen when your partner is speaking and paraphrase what you heard, asking if they want to elaborate. 5. Sliding and deciding are not the same thing Galena Rhoades, a psychologist and research professor at the University of Denver and co-author of Fighting For Your Marriage (the fourth edition), often reminds couples that there is a big difference between passively 'sliding' into circumstances – everything from how often you have sex to where you want to live – and proactively deciding what is right for the relationship. Rhoades has found that understanding the difference can be empowering to couples – a reminder that they can be more deliberate about issues big and small, even if they have been doing things a certain way for years. 'You don't have to stay on that kind of coasting trajectory where you're just sliding through things together,' she said. 'You can change your approach and be more intentional.' 6. Happy couples never stop playing together Play and laughter can soothe the nervous system, helping you cope with stress and bring your best self to the relationship. Those activities can sometimes fizzle out over time between couples, said Stephen Mitchell, a psychotherapist in Denver and co-author of Too Tired to Fight. 'People underestimate the power of humour in terms of helping couples feel connected and helping them work through challenging moments,' Mitchell said. He often urges his clients to look diligently for opportunities to have fun together. Small things can suffice: send a silly text, cultivate inside jokes or plan a surprise date. 7. You probably already know what to do If you can get in touch with your genuine wants and needs, you may find the keys to improving your relationship, though it can take real courage to act on them. Jeff Guenther, a licensed professional counsellor in Portland, Oregon, who runs the popular social media account TherapyJeff, said that sometimes his job as a therapist is simply to reassure people searching for answers in a relationship that they already know the solution. 'You know if it's working or it's not working,' he said. 'You know what conversations you've been avoiding. You know what you're settling for.' It can help to ask yourself something like: If my best friend or son or daughter was in the situation I'm in now, what advice would I give? (Sometimes, he said, the answer might be: See a couples therapist.) 8. Working on your own stress is a boon for your partner Going through a rocky stretch in your relationship likely adds stress to your life. But consider the flip side – if you're not managing the stress in your life, it is likely spilling over into your relationship. Elizabeth Earnshaw, a licensed marriage and family therapist based in Philadelphia and the author of the book 'Til Stress Do Us Part, said that when partners don't work to mitigate their own stress, it can cause a relationship disconnect. You become irritable, withdrawn, short with each other. That can lead to more arguments or cause you each to retreat, creating greater emotional distance. Earnshaw teaches couples a system she calls the stress spillover system. Together, they make a list of stressors, then put them into three baskets: those they can shed (stressors they can and likely should eliminate), those they can prevent (usually with more planning) and those they can neither avoid nor plan for better, and therefore simply must adapt to. 'When people are mismanaging their stress, they are also more likely to become 'self-focused,' which means they will think of their own needs and agenda more than their partner's,' she said. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Written by: Catherine Pearson ©2025 THE NEW YORK TIMES
Time of India
3 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Parents' day 2025: Thoughtful gift ideas to celebrate mum, dad, and everything they have done
Parents' Day is that quiet hero of holidays, less hyped than Mother's Day or Father's Day, but just as meaningful. Celebrated as National Parents' Day 2025, it's a perfect excuse to pause, reflect, and say thank you to the people who've cheered you on through every meltdown, milestone, and misstep. Whether it's your mom, dad, grandparents, or someone who stepped in with love and patience, this day is about honoring them. No pressure for grand gestures, just thoughtful, meaningful actions that say, 'Hey, you matter.' National Parents' Day 2025 history, significance Parents' Day isn't just a cute Hallmark holiday, it actually has roots in something real. In the US, it was officially established in 1994 when President Bill Clinton signed a law recognizing the fourth Sunday of July as a day to honor parents for their love, sacrifices, and role in raising future generations. It's like Mother's Day and Father's Day rolled into one and way more heart. The idea is simple: take a moment to say thanks to the people who've been there through every mess, milestone, and meltdown. Because parenting? It's a full-time superhero gig. Personalised gifts for parents : Because generic just won't do When it comes to Parents' Day gift ideas, personalized gifts for parents top the list. We're not talking last-minute mugs or cliché T-shirts. Think unique parents day presents that genuinely feel custom. A custom family portrait (illustrated or caricatured), a photo calendar packed with nostalgia (and some embarrassing childhood photos for flavor), or even a name-engraved cutting board that turns their kitchen into royalty territory—these are the types of gifts for parents that they'll actually remember. Because when a gift feels made just for them, it hits differently. The subscription surprise: Gifting that keeps on giving Nothing screams 'I planned this ahead' like a monthly subscription. Celebrating National Parents' Day can be as simple as setting up a snack box that sends them international treats, or a tea subscription for their cozy evenings. These kinds of creative gift ideas for parents are both practical and sweet—a perfect balance. Wellness boxes with essential oils or curated book picks make them feel seen month after month. That's thoughtful gifts for parents 101: make the love stretch beyond just one day. Write what you feel: The handwritten letter hack Let's be honest, when's the last time anyone wrote anything that wasn't an email or grocery list? That's why a handwritten letter stands out. It's raw, it's rare, and it might just become their favorite Parents' Day memory. This parents appreciation day, take a few minutes to write down what they mean to you. Talk about the moments they were your rock, or the weird family rituals you secretly loved. You don't have to be Shakespeare. Just be you. They'll love it, and probably get a little weepy. Tech without the tech headache Gadgets for parents are risky territory, but pick the right one, and you're golden. A smart display that lets them video call you hands-free? A digital photo frame that updates with new pictures automatically? Or a Bluetooth tracker so they never have to hunt for keys again? These are the best gifts for mum and dad if ease-of-use is a top priority. The goal? Less 'how does this work?' and more 'why didn't we have this sooner?' Time is the gift: Make memories, not just moments Parents' Day isn't just about stuff, it's about time. Plan a brunch, picnic, or even a movie night with them. If you're able, snag tickets to a concert or play they'd enjoy. But even a simple dinner at home where you cook and clean counts. Celebrating National Parents' Day doesn't have to be flashy. It just needs to be real. Pamper mode: Activated This is your official reminder that your parents need pampering. A foot massager, plush robe, or scented candle kit could flip their regular evening into a mini-spa experience. If you've got the budget, gift them an actual spa day. If not, DIY it with a basket full of self-care goodies. The goal: turn Tuesday into luxury. Parents deserve that. Often. Kitchen treats that feel like upgrades Got a parent who low-key loves cooking? Unique kitchen gadgets make great gifts for parents. Air fryer? Classic win. Fancy olive oil set? Instant kitchen swagger. Even something small, like a personalized apron, makes the everyday dinner hustle feel a bit fancier. These kinds of unique parents day presents are secretly practical, and they'll use them way more than some random trinket. Gifts that fit their passion Want to find the best gifts for mum and dad? Start with what they love doing when no one's asking them to drive you somewhere. Are they into gardening? Get them new tools or seeds. Love puzzles? Find a gorgeous one they'll want to frame. Crime doc fanatics? Netflix and snacks night it is. Creative gift ideas for parents should always be grounded in them—not just what looks cool on Instagram. Jewelry and keepsakes that actually matter Jewelry and accessories can be heartfelt without being over-the-top. An engraved watch, bracelet, or keychain with your initials? A necklace set that connects you and your mom? It's wearable love. These personalized gifts for parents keep you close—even when you're far away. And when everything else fails… Look, if nothing else comes to mind, feed them. A homemade dinner, a batch of cookies, or takeout from their favorite spot is always a solid win. If you want to go big, consider a gourmet food hamper or a week of meal delivery. No one, has ever been mad about free food. Thoughtful gifts for parents don't always have to be fancy—they just need to be delicious. Parents' Day 2025 isn't about outdoing anyone or crafting the perfect social post. It's about telling your people—your personal superheroes—'I see you. I appreciate you. Thank you for everything.' Whether it's personalised gifts for parents, time spent together, or just a note that says 'you did a great job,' they'll feel the love. So this year, skip the stress and go straight to the heart. Because the best gifts for mum and dad aren't necessarily expensive or trendy. They're the ones that say, 'I get you.' And honestly? That's worth more than anything you could wrap.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Casting News: A Hallmark Movie Reunion, Animal Control Addition and More
Erin Krakow (When Calls the Heart) and Tyler Hynes (the Groomsmen franchise) — who previously starred in the 2021 Hallmark Channel telepic It Was Always You — will reunite for the cabler's Christmas Above the Clouds holiday movie, which is described as 'a comedic, modern day reimagining of A Christmas Carol.' The premise: When a workaholic CEO (played by Krakow) tries to skip Christmas by flying to Australia, 'she's in for the flight of her life,' the synopsis tells us. 'Haunted by her past, present, and future, she's forced to confront the choices that led to her success yet left her flying solo. With the help of three quirky spirits and a surprise reunion with her ex (Hynes), she might just rediscover the magic of Christmas — and the love she thought she'd lost.' More from TVLine Percy Jackson and the Olympians Reveals Season 2 Release Date and Trailer, Casting for Nico/Bianca The Legend of Vox Machina Renewed for Final Season - Plus, Mighty Nein Spinoff Gets Prime Video Release Date Buffy the Vampire Slayer Reboot Adds 5 - Including Severance and Frasier Vets We're all rooting for her, to be sure! In other recent casting news: *Speaking of Hallmark…. Season 2 of its Finding Mr. Christmas reality competition will feature as guest judges Janel Parrish (Pretty Little Liars), Heather Hemmens (Roswell, New Mexico), Alison Sweeney (Days of Our Lives, Hannah Swensen Mysteries), Hunter King (Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story), Ashley Williams, Sharon Lawrence, Hallmark superfans Gail and Alicia (both featured in Christmas at Sea) and Erin Krakow (When Calls the Heart). * Fox's Animal Control has added Kyla Pratt (Call Me Kat) in the Season 4 role of Daisy, a new member of the Seattle Animal Control squad who serves as Templeton Dudge's partner, Variety reports. * Brandy Norwood will star in the Lifetime holiday movie Christmas Everyday along with her real-life daughter Sy'Rai Smith. Brandy plays Francine 'Fancy' Ballantine, a fashion designer who is determined to uphold her family's Christmas traditions while planning her baby sister's (Smith) wedding. Hit the comments with your thoughts on the castings above!Best of TVLine Stars Who Almost Played Other TV Roles — on Grey's Anatomy, NCIS, Lost, Gilmore Girls, Friends and Other Shows TV Stars Almost Cast in Other Roles Fall TV Preview: Who's In? Who's Out? Your Guide to Every Casting Move!
Los Angeles Times
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
27 must-see panels at San Diego Comic-Con
It's that time again: San Diego Comic-Con is upon us. Comic-Con 2025 officially kicks off Thursday. More than 130,000 pop culture aficionados make the pilgrimage for the four-day extravaganza in and around the San Diego Convention Center. The event, which originally centered on comic books and their collectors, now encompasses a variety of media across television, film, games and more. Activities for attendees include pop-ups, activations, autograph sessions and hours of programming. Here are select panels this reporter is looking forward to. (The full programming schedule is available at the Comic-Con International site.) Nickelodeon's Avatar: The Last Airbender 20th Anniversary10 - 11 20 The cast and creators of 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' assemble to celebrate the show's 20th anniversary. Will it be just a lookback or will they reveal what's next for the franchise? Percy Jackson and the Olympians11 a.m. - 12 H Your favorite young demigods hit Hall H to tease the upcoming second season of the fantasy TV series. Walker Scobell, Leah Sava Jeffries, Aryan Simhadri, Charlie Bushnell, Dior Goodjohn and Daniel Diemer are among those expected to appear. Star Wars: Andor: From Resistance to Rebellion12 - 1 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina A deep dive into 'Andor' Season 2 with a panel of academics and authors discussing the show's themes including resisting authoritarianism and rebellion. Robert Kirkman Live at SDCC1 - 2 6BCF The prolific comic book creator and Skybound Entertainment co-founder will be on hand to discuss what's next in the worlds of 'Invincible,' 'The Walking Dead' and more. Critical Role: 10 Years and Still Rolling1:45 - 2:45 20 Critical Role founders and cast members Ashley Johnson, Marisha Ray, Taliesin Jaffe, Matthew Mercer, Laura Bailey, Travis Willingham, Sam Riegel and Liam O'Brien reflect on their journey so far. (Fans interested in their animated shows 'Vox Machina' and 'The Mighty Nein' can also catch the panel at the Indigo Ballroom of the Hilton Bayfront from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.) Hallmark Hallstars1:45 - 2:45 Ballroom The panel for those craving a dose of Hallmark Christmas movies in July. Hallmark film and series stars will be on hand to share sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes tea. (And if you also love procedurals, stick around for the 'NCIS: Tony & Ziva' panel right after.) Blumhouse's 'Five Nights at Freddy's 2'4:15 - 5:15 H For horror movie buffs, the filmmakers and stars of the supernatural will take the stage to tease the upcoming sequel. Comedy Central Adult Animation: South Park, Beavis & Butt-Head, and Digman!6:45 - 7:45 H The creative minds behind adult animated hits, including Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Mike Judge and Andy Samberg, hit Hall H to discuss their shows. Cartoon Network Studios: Cartoon Cartoons Animated Shorts Showcase10 - 10:45 Ballroom A screening and spotlight on Cartoon Network Studios' shorts program and its artists. 'Revival': From Comics to TV10:30 - 11:30 6A 'Revival' comic book creators Tim Seeley and Mike Norton join the showrunners and cast of the TV adaptation on bringing the show to life. 'The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon' Season 312:15 - 1:15 H Is it really Comic-Con without 'The Walking Dead'? The presentation will include the show's cast, creatives and the debut of the Season 3 trailer. The Wait is Over: FX's 'Alien: Earth' World Premiere and Q&A1:25pm - 2:50pmHall H The cast and creatives (including creator Noah Hawley) of the upcoming 'Alien' prequel series will screen the pilot episode. Collider's Inside Hollywood with Bob Odenkirk1:30 - 2:15 20 A one-on-one with the 'Breaking Bad' and 'Better Call Saul' star to look back at his career and tease his upcoming film 'Nobody 2.' 'King of the Hill'4 - 4:45 Ballroom The world premiere of the 'King of the Hill' revival, with the show's co-creators Mike Judge and Greg Daniels; showrunner Saladin Patterson; and cast members Pamela Adlon, Kathy Najimy, Lauren Tom and Toby Huss. Godzilla at 70: Seven Decades of the King of the Monsters4:15pm - 5:15pmRoom 6DE 'Shin Godzilla' director Shinji Higuchi will be among those that take the stage for this celebration of the iconic kaiju. Experts will also talk Godzilla collectibles, comics and more. 'Predator: Badlands'4:15pm - 5:15pmHall H Director Dan Trachtenberg and stars Elle Fanning and Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi will take the stage to share sneak peeks and tease their upcoming standalone 'Predator' film. Bob's Burgers10 - 10:45 20 'Bob's Burgers' is approaching its 300th episode. The cast and creatives behind one of the best TV families will take the stage to share news, sneak peeks and more. (Fans of 'Futurama' and 'The Simpsons' might want to stick around for those panels right after.) ABC's Abbott Elementary11:15 a.m. - 12:15 Ballroom School is almost back in session. Stars Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, Lisa Ann Walter, William Stanford Davis and Sheryl Lee Ralph will be among those on hand to talk about the show after a screening of a fan-favorite Season 4 episode. Star Trek Universe12:30 - 2:00 H A supersize presentation featuring panels for 'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' and the upcoming 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.' Cast members Rebecca Romijn, Ethan Peck, Jess Bush, Christina Chong and Paul Wesley will be among those gathered to talk 'Strange New Worlds.' The 'Starfleet Academy' team will include Holly Hunter, Sandro Rosta, Karim Diané, Kerrice Brooks, George Hawkins and Bella Shepard. 'Voyager' alum and 'Starfeet Academy' cast member Robert Picardo will be on hand to moderate. 'Ghosts'3:30 - 4:15 20 For those of us who like our ghosts to be a little less scary. Cast members Utkarsh Ambudkar, Danielle Pinnock, Asher Grodman and Devan Chandler Long will hit the stage along with executive producers Joe Port and Joe Wiseman. 'Peacemaker' Sneak Peek and Panel3:30 - 4:30 H DC Studios co-chief James Gunn will be joined by 'Peacemaker' cast members John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Jennifer Holland, Freddie Stroma, Steve Agee, Frank Grillo, Sol Rodriguez and Tim Meadows to talk Season 2. Yes, there will be footage. Anne Rice Immortal Universe: Anne Rice's Interview with the Vampire and Anne Rice's Talamasca4:30 - 6:00 20 A shared panel for the shared Anne Rice universe. The casts and creatives of 'Interview With the Vampire' and the upcoming 'Talamasca' will discuss each of their corners of their supernatural world. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle5:45 - 6:45 H 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle' has already shattered Japanese box-office records. The first film in a trilogy spanning the final arc of a hit anime series might not be the best place to start for those new to the franchise, but fans won't want to miss this panel that will feature guests from Japan. 'IT: Welcome to Derry'9:15 - 9:45 6DE A sneak peek of the upcoming prequel TV series with executive producers Andy Muschietti and Barbara Muschietti. Explore Disney's 'Amphibia' with Matt Braly10:30 - 11:30 6A 'Amphibia' creator Matt Braly and friends will discuss the animated show and the upcoming graphic novel continuation. Sneak Peek: Lucas Museum of Narrative Art11 a.m. - 12 H George Lucas joins director Guillermo del Toro and artist Doug Chiang to discuss the power of illustrated storytelling and to tease his museum, in a conversation moderated by Queen Latifah. An Afternoon with George Takei1:30 - 2:30 6A Actor, author and icon George Takei will discuss his latest memoir, 'It Rhymes With Takei'; his award-winning graphic novel, 'They Called Us Enemy'; and more.
