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Bustle's Editors On Sarah Palin + Netflix Changes
We've made it, guys — the end of November is here. After a month that included a game-changing election and its fallout, the deaths of beloved stars like Leonard Cohen and Florence Henderson, and the world's most awkward handshake, among other events, we could all use a break, and hopefully, December will provide just that. Sure, there'll be the inevitable holiday stress, but fingers crossed that this coming month brings a much-needed reprieve from the events of the last few weeks.
And of course, November couldn't go down quietly. The final day of the month was filled with news, from Netflix's newest feature to the return of Sarah Palin (gulp). Here's what had Bustle's editors talking today:
Donald Trump + Sarah Palin
No, you didn't just time-warp back to 2008. On Wednesday, it was reported that President-elect Trump is considering having Palin, the former Republican vice presidential candidate, run the Department of Veteran Affairs in his administration. Details on the possible appointment are scarce, but safe to say, those still scarred by Palin's '08 antics as John McCain's running mate are less than thrilled.
Meme Alert: On Tuesday night, Trump had dinner with Mitt Romney, his rumored Secretary of State pick and (former?) political foe. The result? The most awkward dinner photo in history, which has inspired plenty of memes. Oof.
Netflix + Your Next Long Car Ride
Huge news, Netflix fans (aka everyone). On Wednesday morning, the streaming service announced that many of its shows and movies are now available to be downloaded for offline viewing, meaning that your next WiFi-free car ride or plane trip just got a lot more fun. Not every Netflix property is on the list, but plenty of them, like Orange is the New Black and The Crown, are, so click that "download" button and get going.
Bad News, Showtime Fans: One of the network's most acclaimed shows, Masters of Sex , has been canceled. The drama's Season 4 finale will be its last episode, so fans will want to tune in to find out what happens to Bill Johnson, Virginia Masters, and the rest.
Silicone Sponges + The Future Of Makeup
Makeup addicts, we've just found your next obsession. A new silicon makeup applicatior called the SiliSponge is here, and thanks to its slippery, non-absorbent exterior — which allows users to only need half the makeup they'd normally apply — it's taking over the internet. It's already sold out from Molly Cosmetics, but here's how to nab one for yourself (or your makeup-loving bestie).
Shopping Break: Do your mom a favor and get her a present this holiday season from Oprah's Favorite Things gift guide. From an adult coloring book to the comfiest-looking slippers around, Bustle has picked out the 21 best items from the annual list.
Merriam-Webster + Flummadiddle
No, I did not just make that word up. Flummadiddle means "something foolish or worthless," and it might just be your 2016 Word of the Year, if certain Twitter users get their way. After Merriam-Webster tweeted that "fascism" was the most-searched word on its site in 2016, making it the lead contender for Word of the Year, many people were saddened — and determined to lessen the word's ranking. At the dictionary's suggestion, people instead are increasing their searches for "flummadiddle," in the hopes that it'll defeat "fascism" for the top honor. Try using it in a sentence, though.
Fun Fact: According to a new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, researchers have found that cycling, aerobics, swimming and racquet sports are all sports that lead to a decreased risk of death. Might want to renew that gym membership.
Kanye West + Progress
In the days since Kanye was hospitalized for exhaustion, few details have been released, and many fans have been left wondering how the star and his family are faring. On Wednesday, Kim Kardashian's sister Kendall Jenner said that Kim is doing "good", and while the comment is certainly brief, it's nonetheless nice to hear. As you wait for more news about Kanye's condition and its effect on his loved ones, though, it's important to remember that exhaustion is no joke — and that mocking anyone for mental illness or other mental condition is not OK, at all.
#RelationshipGoals: To celebrate wife Chrissy Teigen's birthday, John Legend posted a tribute that's so adorable, it'll make you reevaluate your own relationship.
Today's WTF Moment: "In my head, I was like, 'Well, how funny would be it be if when they were going to the station the car had Nickelback playing in it?'" — Canadian cop Robb Hartlen, whose new policy is, yes, to punish drunk drivers by making them listen to Nickelback on the way to the police station. Ouch.
What To Watch: Your holiday celebrations can officially start, because the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting is happening tonight on NBC at 8 p.m. Your Xmas is about to be lit.
Design: Chelsea LaSalle, Alyssa Foote