Happy Friday! Who's excited about the weekend ahead? I'm sure you've got some holiday gift shopping to do & parties to attend. Or you're going to be snuggling up under a blanket while watching Netflix. Either way, these sound like excellent plans.
Before you relax and unwind, here are the major stories you need to know about on Friday, Dec. 15:
Trump + Christmas
The White House has released the official Christmas portrait of Donald and Melania Trump. The First Lady shared the snapshot on Twitter, which in turn caused a minor frenzy as people began to realize that something was missing from the photo. Specifically, Barron Trump. The president's youngest child was notably absent from the portrait, though this isn't totally unexpected. Barron hasn't participated in a lot of public events during his father's presidency, and given his young age, it's understandable that the family would want him to have some privacy.
Shopping Break: End of year is the best time for organizing and decorating. Here's some clever clothes storage to keep your closet clutter-free!
Obamacare + Enrollment
Friday, Dec. 15 is the last day of open enrollment for Obamacare (ACA). Normally, the enrollment period is several weeks longer, however, the Trump administration cut the open enrollment window down considerably. If you or someone you know is having a baby, there is a special enrollment rule for parents around that that you should look into. Also, if you missed the Obamacare deadline, some states are offering extensions so you might still have time to buy insurance.
Net Neutrality: California has plans to keep net neutrality rules in place, in spite of the FCC's repeal vote yesterday.
Meghan Markle & Prince Harry
Attention: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's wedding date is confirmed to be on Saturday, May 19! There are a couple reasons why that particular date might have been chosen, but the main takeaway is that it's happening SO soon. You better start prepping for your royal wedding viewing party, stat. Or, you could always consider taking a trip to England for the event (honestly, it's actually way cheaper than you would think).
The wedding is taking place at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle, which is a smaller and more intimate venue than where Kate Middleton and Prince William had their wedding in 2011.
Hair Inspo: Have you heard the news? Perms (yes, perms!!!) are making a huge comeback.
AIM + Farewell
Alas, AOL instant messenger (AIM) is shutting down today. No, I haven't used AIM in a decade, but this is still a bittersweet goodbye. Throwback to all the moody statuses and hilariously specific usernames. But while AIM is leaving the internet for good, it's parent company AOL has big plans for the future with new brands and products coming soon, so stay tuned for that.
TV News: The premiere date and teaser trailer for the Roseanne revival are here and OMG, it's a '90s kids' dream come true!
What to Watch: This Bustle interview of the Star Wars: The Last Jedi cast trying to answer trivia questions will totally crack you up. And if you're seeing the movie this weekend, these are some of the biggest Star Wars fan theories floating around.
