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Meghan Markle Has ‘Lost Friends And Allies Everywhere,’ Claims Royal Expert

Meghan Markle, once a prominent actress recognized for her role in the television series Suits, transitioned into the spotlight as a royal when she married Prince Harry. The couple’s relationship became one of the most publicized unions in recent history, symbolizing both a fairy-tale romance and the challenges that come with royal life. In 2020, they chose to step back from their roles in the United Kingdom, marking a significant shift in their lives and sparking conversations across the globe. Their departure was coupled with numerous criticisms aimed at their outspoken nature, particularly regarding the British Royal Family, which they have spoken about extensively. Now settled in the United States, they seem to be seeking a quieter, more private existence.

Both Meghan and Harry have since embarked on new individual projects in their post-royal lives. Meghan recently launched a lifestyle brand called American Riviera Orchid, focusing on home décor and various culinary products. Meanwhile, Harry has taken several solo trips internationally, leading to rumors about possible strains in their marriage. These speculations have only added to the media frenzy surrounding them.

Since relocating to the U.S., Meghan has faced challenges in maintaining her circle of friends and supporters. Recently, renowned royal commentator Tina Brown—who also shared a friendship with Princess Diana—expressed blunt opinions about Meghan’s journey and actions. Her words echoed sentiments voiced by others in the media, attributing some of the criticism Meghan faces to her own decisions and behavior.

The Sussexes’ transition into American life has not been seamless, despite their privileged lifestyle. They have a luxurious home and are raising two young children, Archie and Lilibet, but this new chapter has brought its own share of scrutiny and challenges. Public perception has been a struggle, as media outlets closely examine each of their decisions, particularly in light of their highly publicized departure from royal duties.

The couple has been vocal in interviews and memoirs, sharing their grievances with the Royal Family and detailing personal struggles. However, these revelations have not come without backlash. Their disclosures led to fractured relationships and, reportedly, the loss of friendships with those who disagreed with their public critiques. Rumors about Harry potentially returning to the UK have circulated widely, especially given his separate public engagements in recent months. This, in turn, has fueled speculation about the status of their marriage. According to sources close to the couple, Meghan is reportedly distressed by the persistence of these rumors, which she feels unfairly target her while Harry garners praise for his initiatives.
A close source conveyed Meghan’s frustrations, stating that the ongoing whispers about their relationship are difficult for her to ignore. The source suggested that their choice to pursue individual projects may be a strategic one, allowing them to focus on causes close to their hearts. Yet Meghan’s sense of discomfort is amplified when she faces harsh criticism, particularly for things as minor as her attire or public comments. Such scrutiny, she believes, echoes her experiences while a member of the Royal Family, where she often felt unjustly judged.
Royal commentator Ed Coram James speculated on the reasons behind the Sussexes’ separate appearances. He suggested that their brand, once seen as a cohesive unit, began shifting after their infamous interview with Oprah Winfrey. According to James, the interview set off a chain reaction, transforming their image in the public eye and making partnerships with large brands more difficult to secure. The Sussexes’ vocal disputes with both the British Royal Family and some of Meghan’s relatives painted a picture of a couple willing to air grievances publicly. This led to perceptions of them as somewhat confrontational and combative, especially as several of their projects failed to meet expectations.
James suggested that to overcome the challenges surrounding their brand, the Sussexes would need to reposition themselves by focusing on qualities like humility and grace. For now, their individual efforts might help them forge unique identities and eventually enable a reimagined brand if they choose to reunite their public personas down the road. By moving in separate directions for now, they could cultivate distinct, positive reputations that might reshape the public narrative.
Meghan’s latest endeavor, American Riviera Orchid, aims to bring a fresh perspective to home and lifestyle goods. The brand includes kitchen items, cookbooks, preserves, and edible oils, showcasing her interest in wellness and home decor. However, some experts remain skeptical about its potential success, voicing concerns about the public’s readiness to embrace her new business direction.
In an interview on a podcast, Tina Brown did not hesitate to share her skepticism about the Sussexes’ post-royal career choices. Brown pointed out that while Harry naturally thrives in his public role, Meghan has faced challenges in crafting a consistent, successful brand image. According to Brown, Harry’s skills align closely with the expectations of a royal figure, and he reportedly carries a unique charm that suited his previous role in the monarchy well.
When discussing Meghan, Brown offered sharp criticism, stating that her judgment in business matters has been consistently flawed. Brown even asserted that Meghan tends to ignore advice, often choosing to go her own way despite consulting experts. Her comments underscored the challenges Meghan faces in shifting public opinion, a task made more difficult by perceived missteps in her professional decisions.
Over the years, Harry and Meghan’s candid remarks about the Royal Family have made headlines, especially with the release of Harry’s memoir, Spare. The book’s release was reportedly one of the factors behind their eviction from Frogmore Cottage by King Charles. Additionally, Harry’s strained relationship with his brother William is believed to be unresolved, with no plans for reconciliation at this time.
Opinions differ on who bears responsibility for the divide within the family, though Brown suggests that Harry is largely guided by Meghan’s influence. Brown even characterized Harry’s admiration for Meghan as unwavering, describing him as being captivated by her ambition and confidence in the Hollywood scene. According to Brown, this dynamic has shaped many of Harry’s decisions.
Another royal expert, Hugo Vickers, offered insights into Meghan’s tendency to lose supporters. Vickers suggested that her path since joining the Royal Family has been marked by burned bridges, including with notable supporters such as Tina Brown. Initially, many believed Meghan’s presence in the Royal Family could bring a modern, progressive influence, especially given her history of addressing issues at forums like the United Nations. But Vickers implied that she may not have fully grasped the demands of royal duty, which prioritize service over personal ambition.
Despite the turbulent nature of her departure from the UK, Meghan hinted at having more stories to tell. During an interview with The Cut, she revealed that she kept a personal diary during her time in the Royal Family. The existence of this journal has sparked curiosity, as it could contain further insights into her experiences within the monarchy.
In another interview, royal commentator Roya Nikkhah pointed to Meghan’s mention of the journal as a potential signal to the Royal Family. Nikkhah noted that Meghan’s reference to her journal and comments on speaking openly could be perceived as a subtle warning. Should Meghan ever choose to publish a memoir, it could further complicate her relationship with the Royal Family, especially if it revisits past grievances.
While speculation about Meghan’s intentions continues, royal expert Jennie Bond suggests that Meghan may prefer to move forward and leave her royal controversies behind. Bond expressed doubt that Meghan would release a memoir but acknowledged that the journal remains in her possession, potentially holding private reflections from her time as a senior royal. For now, however, Meghan appears focused on building a new chapter in the U.S., seemingly prioritizing a peaceful, forward-looking approach over revisiting past conflicts.PROC.BY MOVIES

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How to spot eyelash mites

Eyelash mites might sound like something out of a horror story, but they’re more common than you think. These microscopic creatures, known as Demodex mites, live on nearly everyone’s skin.

For most, they’re harmless. However, when their population grows out of control, they can lead to irritation, discomfort, and even eye problems. Knowing how to spot and manage them is essential, especially as we age.

What Are Eyelash Mites?

Demodex mites are tiny parasites that primarily live in hair follicles and sebaceous glands, according to WebMD.

There are two main types: Demodex folliculorum, which lives in hair follicles, and Demodex brevis, which prefers oil glands. While these mites naturally coexist with humans, factors like age, poor hygiene, or a weakened immune system can cause their numbers to increase, leading to issues such as blepharitis (eyelid inflammation).

Signs You Might Have Eyelash Mites

While not everyone experiences symptoms, an overgrowth of Demodex mites can cause noticeable discomfort. Signs include:

Red, itchy, or swollen eyelids.
A gritty or burning sensation in the eyes.
Crusty debris around the base of the eyelashes.
Eyelash loss or thinning.
Increased sensitivity to light.

If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be worth discussing the possibility of eyelash mites with your doctor or eye specialist.

How to Manage and Eliminate Eyelash Mites

The good news is that controlling eyelash mites is often simple with good hygiene and proper care. Here are steps that Healthline has recommended to take:

Keep Your Face Clean
Wash your face daily, paying special attention to your eyelids and lashes. Use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser, as harsh soaps can irritate the skin further.
Invest in Eyelid Wipes
Specially formulated eyelid wipes can help remove debris and excess oil where mites thrive. Look for products containing tea tree oil, known for its antimicrobial properties.
Wash Bedding Frequently
Mites can transfer to bedding, so clean your pillowcases and sheets regularly. Use hot water and dry them on high heat for best results.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items
Sharing items like makeup or towels can spread mites, so keep these personal.
Consult a Specialist
In severe cases, a healthcare professional might recommend medicated ointments or prescription treatments to manage the condition.

Prevention is Key

For those aged 50 and older, maintaining proper skin care becomes even more critical, as changes in skin health can make it easier for mites to thrive. Regular check-ups and good hygiene habits can help prevent problems before they start.

While eyelash mites aren’t dangerous, they can cause significant discomfort if left unchecked. By staying informed and proactive, you can keep your eyes healthy and free from unwanted visitors.

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Hidden detail in Starbucks’ green siren makes her more ‘human’

Many of us know the Starbucks’ siren as the green vixen who lures thirsty people into her stores, enchanting coffee lovers with her magical brew and her irresistible aromas.

And though she quickly triggers a coffee craving with her promise of the perfect blend, there’s a few small details that make the two-tailed mermaid delicously imperfect.

In 1971, when Starbucks was just a humble coffee bean retailer in Seattle’s Pike Place Market, the founders were looking for a name and logo that embodied adventure and the seafaring tradition of early coffee traders.

After considering names like Pequod, the whaling ship from “Moby-Dick,” the company settled on Starbucks, inspired by the first mate in Herman Melville’s novel.

This maritime theme led to the selection of a twin-tailed mermaid, or siren, as the logo, symbolizing the allure and mystery of the sea.

“It’s the siren. She is not a real person, but we kind of think of her as one. She’s the biggest symbol of our brand…She’s the face of it,” says Steve Murray, a creative director in the Starbucks Global Creative Studio. “The siren is like a super mermaid. A mermaid with one tail is just a plain ol’ mermaid. (Sorry Ariel).”

Her first facelift

The original logo featured a brown, monochrome image of the bare-breasted siren, reflecting the earthy tones of coffee. However, in 1987, as Starbucks expanded, the logo had a makeover, and the creepy creature became less creepy.

The color shifted to a vibrant green, symbolizing growth, freshness, and the brand’s commitment to quality. Additionally, the siren’s hair was adjusted to cover her breasts, making the image more modest and aligning with evolving societal norms.

Another makeover

By 1992, Starbucks had become a household name, prompting another logo update. This time, the focus was on the siren’s face, cropping out her body to create a more intimate and recognizable image. Only the tips of her tails, still held in her two hands, were visible.

She speaks for herself

In 2011, to celebrate its 40^th anniversary, Starbucks unveiled a bold new logo. The company name was removed, leaving only the siren to represent the brand.

“I hope when people see the siren on their cup, of course it’s going to stand for what they’re going to get from Starbucks,” Murray said of the globally recognized logo “If the siren is on that cup of coffee, it’s going to be awesome.”

Making her more ‘human’

This minimalist approach signified Starbucks’ evolution beyond just coffee, embracing a broader range of products and experiences. The siren’s face was further refined, making her appear more human and relatable.

Speaking of the siren’s face, there’s a fascinating detail that many might miss. While the logo’s design aims for symmetry, a slight asymmetry was intentionally introduced to make the siren appear more human and less like a “perfectly cut mask.”

She couldn’t be “perfect, like Barbie,” and needed a subtle imperfection to add character and warmth to the logo, making her more inviting to customers.

Global creative director Connie Birdsall tells Fast Company that the design team had “to step back and put some” “humanity back” in the siren’s face. “The imperfection was important to making her really successful as a mark,” she said.

“In the end, just for the face part of the drawing, there’s a slight asymmetry to it. It has a bit more shadow on the right side of the face,” says design partner Bogdan Geana. “It felt a bit more human and felt less like a perfectly cut mask.”

The siren today

The siren you see today is asymmetrical but you have to look very closely to spot the imperfections. There’s extra shadowing on the right side – her right eyebrow looks longer – and her nose dips lower, also on the right.

Can you see it now that you know?

The Starbucks’ logo is more than just a green circle with a siren; it’s a symbol of the brand’s journey, values, and connection with its customers. Next time you sip your favorite brew, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and hidden stories behind that iconic two-tailed mermaid.

Please let us know what you think of this story and then share it with your friends so we can hear from them!

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Bindi Irwin fears for daughter Grace’s health

For a decade, Bindi Irwin kept her battle with endometriosis hidden from the public eye.

Now, she’s opening up about the pain and uncertainty that shaped her journey — not just for herself, but for her daughter Grace’s future health.

Over a decade of hiding her symptoms

Bindi Irwin has truly carved out a name for herself over the years. As the daughter of the legendary Steve Irwin, she had enormous shoes to fill after her father’s untimely passing, but she’s done so with grace and determination.

With her sun-kissed hair, brown eyes, and her dad’s infectious smile, Bindi has become a beloved figure in the world of wildlife conservation.

But her journey to an independent and peaceful life has been marked by shame, pain, and fear. For 10 years, Bindi was in so much pain, fighting an invisible battle every day – but she wore a brave face and pushed herself to be the smiling image everyone expected.

When the lights went off, Bindi spent countless hours trying to maintain a happy front while secretly struggling to stay afloat.

”I lived for more than 10 years trying desperately to hide my symptoms,” she tells 9honey.

Bindi Irwin symptoms

Everything began when Bindi Irwin got her first period. With it came pain, nausea, and fatigue, which only worsened as she got older. Despite this, Bindi tried to carry on with life as usual. She got married in 2020, and from the outside, no one suspected she was suffering in secret.

But Bindi knew something wasn’t right, so she took action several times. She visited doctors, had blood tests, and underwent various tests, but none of this provided clear answers.

“I was tested for cancer. I had MRIs, I had ultrasounds, I had CT scans, just you name it. I was checked for everything,” Bindi once shared.

It even got to the point where her doctor suggested that the pain was all in her head. Without any medical answers, Bindi started to believe the doctor. Maybe it really was all in her mind?

All the stress and pressure took its toll eventually. She struggled mentally and began to withdraw. Her public appearances became less frequent.

Anyone who has been sick without getting any answers can probably relate — you end up feeling very isolated with your symptoms and withdraw from others. You don’t want to talk about it all the time.

That’s why it was such a huge relief when Bindi Irwin was finally diagnosed with endometriosis, an incurable disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.

To put this into perspective, getting a diagnosis takes an average of 6.5 years in Australia. Bindi had waited nearly a decade.

Discovered 37 lesions and a chocolate cyst

In 2023, Bindi took to Instagram to reveal that she had undergone surgery for endometriosis. Looking back, Bindi admitted that she was terrified before pressing ”post” to share her story on Instagram.

”At the end of the day, sharing my story with endometriosis felt so important to me that it outweighed my worry,” she told Honey9.

When the surgeons opened her up, the true cost of going undiagnosed for so long became clear: they discovered 37 lesions and a chocolate cyst, which is a cyst filled with menstrual blood.

Had Bindi gone on for a few more years with her condition, it could have had fatal consequences. It’s not impossible that she might not have made it.

Luckily, Bindi has always had a strong support system at home. Chandler Powell, her husband, an American professional wakeboarder from Florida, held her hand when she was at her lowest.

After her surgery in 2023, Chandler expressed his admiration, saying she is the strongest and toughest person he knows and that he’s excited for the new chapter in their lives.

Terri Irwin, her mother, also provided her with unconditional love.

Will Bindi Irwin have more kids?

Endometriosis can make it harder for women to have children, and according to Honey9, up to 50 percent of people with the disease may experience infertility. Given this, it’s pretty incredible that Bindi Irwin gave birth to a daughter, Grace Warrior Irwin Powell, on March 25, 2021.

“Along my pregnancy journey. I would often have times when I thought I was miscarrying because I would have severe unexplained pain. I would think that I was loosing our beautiful daughter,” Bindi said and broke down in tears during an emotional interview with Good Morning America.

Over the years, Bindi has been cautious about sharing her journey to motherhood, but she has talked about the unhealthy pressure and expectations placed on women to have children.

”I get asked if I’m having more kids every. Single. Day,” she says. While she knows most people mean no harm, ”but it can actually be a really hurtful question.”

After all, she’ll be living with this disease for the rest of her life. Bindi Irwin acknowledges that there is still a long road ahead. She feels as though she is still working to rebuild herself into the person she was before endometriosis took so much from her.

Endometriosis can run in families

As Bindi continues to recover, there’s a lingering concern that gnaws at her. It’s known that endometriosis can run in families.

“We know that there are both genetic and environmental influences that drive endometriosis, with 50% genetically related (DNA and genes) and 50% environmental factors, including lifestyle, what we eat, exposure to chemicals and the atmosphere,” Dr. Holdsworth-Carson, a researcher, told The Royal Women’s Hospital.

“There is a very, very big possibility that Grace will have endometriosis, which really does weigh on me,” Bindi says.

It’s truly heartbreaking that Bindi had to endure so much before finally receiving a proper diagnosis. She suffered so long needlessly. I truly hope her daughter, Grace, doesn’t have to face the same struggles. But at least now that the family is aware of the issue, if Grace were to experience similar symptoms, she won’t have to endure the same long and painful journey to get help.

I’m so glad Bindi is sharing her story! Breaking the stigma surrounding endometriosis is half the battle, according to her, and Bindi is doing an amazing job by being so open about it.

Hopefully, her public persona and strong advocacy will help raise awareness, lead to faster diagnoses, and improve treatments. Such a big part of the problem is how much people don’t know what it is or what the signs are.

No woman should have to suffer because some doctors lack knowledge. Share this article if you agree!