Best Of

Susan Boyle still lives in her childhood home – now she gives us a peek inside after the renovations

Susan Boyle captured the hearts of music lovers around the world when she first appeared on the third season of “Britain’s Got Talent” over a decade ago.

The video of her first audition when she stood in front of Simon Cowell, shy and unassuming and then blew everyone away with her rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables has been watched by millions.

She gained fame, as well as earned millions of dollars through album sales. However, her journey hasn’t all been sunshine and roses, and the singer’s love life has long been the subject of rumors and speculation.

So, did Susan Boyle ever marry? Does she have a partner? And where is she living now?

It’s quite natural to stop and look in the rearview mirror as you grow older – and Susan Boyle can certainly look back on a remarkable life.

In 2008, the unemployed charity worker lived alone with her cat, Pebbles, and wanted to see if she could make it in show business. After performing I Dreamed a Dream from Les Misérables in front of Simon Cowell and the rest of Britain’s Got Talent judges, the 47-year-old became a star overnight.

The crazy underdog audition gained her instant recognition across the world. Even today, her journey is inspiring to millions.

“I used to be a kind of spectator looking outward at the world. But now I’m part of that world and, though frightening, I’m going to embrace it,” Boyle said after her breakthrough.

In her first year as a superstar, she made $6.8 million.

Susan Boyle remodels her childhood home and gives a peek inside — YouTube

Her success continued and after the release of her second studio album, she became the third artist to top the charts in the UK and the US twice in the same year.

Overnight this unassuming and shy then 47-year-old from Scotland became an international superstar and a millionaire.

Even though her career took her around the globe and made her a multi-millionaire, Susan Boyle has always remained honest, down-to-earth, and genuinely caring.

Unlike many other celebrities, she has never flashed her cash; the humble singer still lives in her childhood home in Blackburn, Scotland.

She purchased the modest house in 2010.

”It’s best to be grounded and with your roots. It keeps you grounded and prevents you from saying things maybe you shouldn’t say,” she told OK!.

Susan Boyle was born on April 1, 1961. Her parents – Patrick Boyle, a miner, WWII veteran, and singer, and Bridget, a shorthand typist – were both immigrants from County Donegal, Ireland. Boyle grew up as the youngest of four brothers and six sisters.

The family lived in a council house in West Lothian, Scotland. Still to this day, Susan lives in that house.

She could have done anything, gone anywhere, bought a mansion in Beverly Hills, but instead, she returned to her childhood home, a four-bedroom ex-council house in Blackburn, Scotland, bought it, and turned it into the home of her dreams.

In a tour of her newly decorated abode, which she’s called home for 60 years now, she reveals her stunning new piano room which is the first thing you see when you enter her home. Susan Boyle remodels her childhood home and gives a peek inside

YouTube

She joked about her piano room as she said she’d only just started having lessons.

“That’s a giggle for a start because I can’t even do scales,” she joked.

The newly renovated kitchen used to be small and sparse with a table in the center near the oven which she said made it hazardous, but the renovation gives her a lot more space and many updates. It even has a framed photo of Susan meeting Pope Francis.

Her living room is bright and homey and full of pictures of her family. Susan is the youngest child of 7 brothers and sisters so originally her house occupied 9 people. It must feel a lot roomier now.

As you move through the home, you see her career documented in various framed awards and accolades along with many cute animal ornaments, a testament to her gentle nature and down-to-earth personality. Susan Boyle remodels her childhood home and gives a peek inside

YouTube

Upstairs Susan shows us what used to be the room she once shared with her two sisters which then became hers after her sisters left home. She recalls the record player that used to sit in the corner and how she was a huge fan of The Osmonds.

Her father died in the 1990s by which time her brothers and sisters had all left home. Susan stayed at home and cared for her elderly mother until her death in 2007 so the household’s precious memories for the superstar.

“Some people seem surprised that I choose to stay in my family home. Why shouldn’t I? I feel Mum is still here and there are so many good memories … I’ve spent most of my life in this house and I won’t move now, because I feel it’s part of my new history,” she said.

Susan has always been open about the fact that she wants to meet the love of her life and find a long-term partner. That person will of course move into her house – because Susan is not leaving.

While SuBo is patiently waiting to meet ”Mr Right”, there is something else that has been bothering her for a while. Susan has always wanted to be a mother and have children of her own.

”I’ve never had any of my own, that’s my biggest regret, but I love kids. They’re good fun to be with,” she told The Sun.

As a 60-year-old woman, time is not exactly on her side. But Susan has opened up on perhaps adopting or becoming a foster parent for children who need a safe and loving home.

“I’ve a lovely house, why not share it?” she said.

Susan’s home reminds us all that despite her overnight stardom she’s still an everyday person who chooses to live the quiet life in the only home she’s ever known.

It’s such a shame her parents couldn’t have witnessed her rise to stardom. Please share.

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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!

Best Of

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!