Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth

Tag: lifestyle blog

  • The Royal Conversation We Needed: My Thoughts on Oprah’s Interview with Meghan & Harry 👑✨

    The Royal Conversation We Needed: My Thoughts on Oprah’s Interview with Meghan & Harry 👑✨

    When Oprah sits down for a tell-all, you know it’s going to be good. But when it’s Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Prince Harry across from her? Let’s just say — this wasn’t your average Sunday night interview.

    I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to watch at first. But as a biracial Black woman, curiosity (and maybe a little hope) got the better of me. And I’m so glad it did. From the moment the conversation began, I found myself nodding along, relating to Meghan in ways I didn’t expect. It was raw, vulnerable, and—finally—real.

    This wasn’t just a royal chat over tea. It was an unfiltered look into the experiences of two people navigating love, identity, and impossible expectations under the world’s microscope. Here are a few moments that truly stuck with me.

    💬 The Conversation About Archie’s Skin Tone

    When Meghan revealed that there had been “concerns” within the royal family about how dark Archie’s skin might be, I froze. It was painful but not shocking. Harry confirmed it wasn’t Queen Elizabeth or Prince Philip, but still—the damage was done.

    As someone who has lived through the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) weight of colorism, I understood exactly how loaded that question was. It’s not just curiosity — it’s a reflection of how deeply racism can run, even when it hides behind polite tones and royal titles. Some people see a mixed-race baby and automatically assign them an identity that fits their biases. That “in-between” space can be isolating — you’re too Black for some, too white for others, and somehow never just you.

    👑 The Title That Never Was

    Let’s talk about Archie’s missing title. Traditionally, royal children need the Queen’s approval to receive the titles of “Prince” or “Princess.” William’s children were granted theirs—Charlotte and Louis included—but Archie? Not so much. For the first royal child of color to be denied that recognition carried symbolism that couldn’t be ignored. Representation matters — even in a palace.

    As Meghan explained how painful that experience was, I couldn’t help but think about how many of us have felt “snubbed” in smaller, quieter ways. Those moments when you realize that, no matter how much you achieve, some people will still see you as “other.”

    Representation matters, especially when it’s within an institution that symbolizes so much tradition and visibility. It was a subtle but loud message, and one that didn’t go unnoticed.

    📸 The Photo That Never Happened

    Remember the iconic royal baby debut outside the hospital? Meghan and Harry didn’t get that moment. I had assumed they opted out for privacy reasons—but no. Meghan revealed they were not offered the opportunity.

    That stung. Because those first photos aren’t just about the royal tradition; they’re about belonging. About being seen.

    📰 Harry’s Wake-Up Call on Racism

    One of the most powerful parts of the interview was hearing Harry admit he didn’t fully understand racial bias until he experienced it alongside Meghan. It reminded me of how deeply embedded privilege can be—even among those who think they “get it.”

    Oprah brilliantly contrasted media coverage between Meghan and Kate—where Kate was praised for eating avocado toast, and Meghan was vilified for it. It was such a clear example of how bias quietly works its way into everyday narratives.

    💔 “Megxit” and Moving On

    When the couple decided to step back from royal duties, they weren’t trying to rebel—they were trying to breathe. Harry clarified that he had spoken with the Queen in advance, though later, the palace’s response suggested otherwise.

    Hearing them describe losing their security and being cut off financially, while still facing intense scrutiny, made me realize how heavy their reality was. Meghan’s candidness about her mental health struggles was heartbreaking—but it also showed so much strength.

    ✨ Why It Matters

    Watching this interview felt like watching a cultural shift happen in real-time. It was uncomfortable, necessary, and strangely healing.

    Sharing your truth, especially when the world wants you silent, is a radical act. Meghan and Harry’s honesty reminded me of how vital it is to have these conversations — even when they challenge the systems we’ve been taught to respect.

    Oprah handled it with the grace and gravity only she can bring, creating space for hard but necessary conversations. And watching it all unfold, I couldn’t help but think of Princess Diana — how her legacy of honesty and compassion continues through her son and his family.

    For me, this interview wasn’t just about the royals. It was about the universal need to be seen, heard, and understood — no matter where you come from. It was about resilience, representation, and the beauty of reclaiming your story.

    And while the royal family might not change overnight, one thing’s for sure: the world is listening.

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  • 💍 My Honest Review of the Maeven Bridal Subscription Box

    💍 My Honest Review of the Maeven Bridal Subscription Box

    Wedding planning can be so exciting — and a little overwhelming! That’s why I’ve fallen in love with small moments of joy along the way, like my latest discovery: the Maeven Bridal Subscription Box. If you’re a bride-to-be looking for a bit of monthly magic, this one’s for you. Each box is beautifully curated with over $120 worth of bridal goodies, designed to make the wedding planning process feel more special (and way more fun).

    When I subscribed, I decided to skip the Intro Box and go straight for the themed monthly boxes — best decision ever! I had tried another bridal box before, but the items just didn’t feel “me.” Maeven, on the other hand, nailed it. Every piece felt thoughtful, stylish, and high-quality. Here’s a peek at what came in my first box — and why I’m already hooked.

    🧶 MRS. Knit Pom Pom Hat

    I couldn’t love this hat more if I tried! Living in Iowa means cold winters, so this cozy “MRS.” knit pom hat couldn’t have arrived at a better time. It’s soft, cute, and perfect for those snowy morning coffee runs. Definitely going to be a winter staple!

    ☕ “MRS.” Glass Mug

    I’m obsessed with this mug — it’s so simple, elegant, and perfect for that newlywed glow-up. My fiancé and I are currently house hunting, and I can already picture myself sipping morning coffee from my “Mrs.” mug in our first home together. (Manifesting that kitchen counter moment ✨).

    🎈 Pop Fizz Clink Sign, Ring Balloons, & Acrylic Tag

    These are going to be so fun to use for upcoming celebrations! The “Pop Fizz Clink” sign will make a cute addition to my bridal shower mimosa bar, and I love the idea of reusing it for the bachelorette party — or even the wedding reception. The acrylic ornament/bag tag will be perfect for our honeymoon luggage (we’re still deciding between Japan and Canada — I’ll keep you posted!).

    🧦 Bride Vibes Socks

    Okay, these made me laugh because I literally had a similar pair that my fiancé stretched out with his giant feet. So, I’m thrilled to have a fresh pair that’s just mine this time! They’re soft, comfy, and perfect for those cozy nights of wedding planning with a glass of wine in hand.

    Overall, I am so impressed with Maeven’s attention to detail and quality. It truly feels like a box full of joy every month — perfect for brides who want a little luxury during the whirlwind of wedding prep.

    If you’re considering subscribing, I say go for it! It’s such a sweet way to celebrate your engagement journey and make every step toward “I do” feel a little more magical. 💕

    Have you tried Maeven (or another bridal box)? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below — let’s share some bride-to-be excitement together!

    I am absolutely delighted with the contents of this month’s Maeven subscription box. As a self-proclaimed leader in luxury bridal subscription boxes, Maeven has certainly lived up to their reputation. I am eagerly looking forward to discovering what surprises the next box holds. If you are considering subscribing or are already a subscriber, I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Let’s connect and share our excitement!

    Send a coffee ❤

    Don’t forget to subscribe!

  • 🍷 My First Impressions of the New 90 Day Fiancé Season

    🍷 My First Impressions of the New 90 Day Fiancé Season

    Warning: Spoilers ahead for the first episode of 90 Day Fiancé!

    Sunday nights are officially back to being my favorite night of the week — thank you, TLC! 🙌 I swear, they deserve a medal for still managing to find couples for us to obsess over during a pandemic. My little ritual has become sacred at this point: dinner, a glass of wine, and the glorious chaos that is 90 Day Fiancé.

    So let’s dive right into my first impressions of this new season’s cast of lovebirds (and trainwrecks 😂).

    💔 Jovi & Yara

    Oof. My first impression of Jovi? Not great, y’all. He gives off major immature vibes and seems completely unprepared for a serious relationship. When he started bragging about his “free spirit” lifestyle and stripper escapades, I couldn’t roll my eyes hard enough. 🙄

    And then — the airport pickup. Imagine flying 30 hours to see your man, and he gets mad because you don’t want to go sightseeing immediately? Boy, please. Common sense, where you at? I’m rooting for Yara, but something tells me this one’s going to be rocky.

    Image from Screenrant

    🐄 Brandon & Julia

    Ohhh my gosh, where do I even start?! Brandon lives with his parents… on a farm… and brings Julia, a gogo dancer from the city, to live there too. This has all the makings of a beautiful disaster.

    From his mom setting him up on a dating site (yes, really) to his $10,000 credit card debt and his mom calling a gynecologist for Julia — I can’t! 😂 I totally get why his mom is concerned, but whew… this situation is already giving me secondhand stress. Buckle up, Julia.

    Image from PEOPLE

    😒 Mike & Natalie

    Image from RealityTVWorld

    Does Mike even like Natalie? I honestly can’t tell. He seems about as excited as a soggy piece of toast. The man only lights up when he’s cuddling his cat — which, honestly, same, but still.

    If there’s zero enthusiasm now, I’m not sure how this is going to work out long-term. Someone get this man a cup of coffee and a reason to smile!

    🔥 Rebecca & Zied

    Image from Heavy.com

    Ah yes, Rebecca and Zied — back again for more chaos (and yes, I’m here for it). First off, Rebecca’s new job at Joella’s Hot Chicken has me curious — I’d 100% go through that drive-thru just to say, “Hey, aren’t you from 90 Day Fiancé?” 😂

    But oh boy, the drama’s already brewing. They’re staying with Rebecca’s daughter and her daughter’s boyfriend… and Zied is not thrilled about that. Something tells me this household’s about to turn into a full-on reality show within a reality show.

    💞 Tarik & Hazel

    Image from ChampionDaily

    We only got a small glimpse of Tarik and Hazel this episode, but color me intrigued. Hazel’s bisexual and looking for a girlfriend — yes, you read that right — while being engaged to Tarik. I can already tell this season is going to bring some big conversations (and probably some major drama).

    🍿 Final Thoughts

    Y’all, I am so ready for this season. Between farm drama, cultural clashes, awkward family moments, and questionable decision-making — this is peak 90 Day Fiancé content.

    It’s my favorite Sunday night ritual: dinner, wine, and pure TLC chaos. 🥂 I’d love to know what you think of the new cast! Who’s your favorite so far? Who’s driving you nuts already? Let’s chat in the comments — I need to know I’m not the only one yelling at my TV! 😂

  • When Everything Becomes “Toxic”: A Little Perspective on Modern Relationships

    When Everything Becomes “Toxic”: A Little Perspective on Modern Relationships

    Lately, it feels like everyone is talking about “toxic” behavior — from friendships and relationships to online interactions. And honestly, at first, I thought this wave of awareness was going to bring some much-needed change. I even wrote a piece not too long ago about recognizing harmful relationships and protecting your peace.

    But recently, I’ve noticed something new. It seems like the word toxic has started to lose its meaning. Suddenly, any disagreement or minor frustration is being labeled as toxic — when sometimes, it’s really just a misunderstanding or a lack of communication.

    Let me give you an example.
    If I called up my best friend to vent about how my fiancé never seems to buy coffee, I could easily spiral into labeling that behavior as unfair or even toxic. But if I’m honest with myself, I’ve never actually told him how I feel about it. Maybe he doesn’t even realize it’s bothering me. Maybe he’s covering other expenses I haven’t thought about. Before I label the situation, I owe it to us both to communicate.

    And that’s the thing — calling everything toxic can stop us from doing the hard, but necessary, work of understanding and growing with the people we love.

    💭 What Actually Makes a Relationship Toxic

    Now, that doesn’t mean true toxicity doesn’t exist — it absolutely does. There are patterns of behavior that cross the line and can chip away at your peace and self-worth.

    Here are a few examples of what toxic behavior can look like:

    ✨ They continuously ignore or dismiss important issues that matter to you.
    ✨ They use personal things you’ve shared against you later.
    ✨ They intentionally do something hurtful, then twist it to make you the problem.
    ✨ They never take accountability — it’s always your fault.
    ✨ They show little empathy, yet expect endless compassion from others.
    ✨ They can’t stand being told they’re wrong.
    ✨ Their apologies feel fake, condescending, or manipulative.
    ✨ When you express your feelings, they lash out and blame you for “starting drama.”

    None of us are perfect — we all have moments where we’re selfish, defensive, or just not our best selves. But there’s a huge difference between someone who listens, reflects, and wants to grow versus someone who refuses to take responsibility.

    For instance, if your partner needs time to cool off before having a hard conversation, that can be healthy. But if they constantly delay or avoid the talk because they don’t care or don’t value your needs, that’s when it becomes toxic.

    🔥 The Candle Example
    There’s a viral video that perfectly sums up a dynamic known as reactive abuse — when the real aggressor provokes someone, then plays the victim once the other person reacts.

    In the clip, a little girl smugly blows out her sister’s birthday candles. Naturally, the younger sister gets upset — and guess who gets scolded? The little sister. It’s a lighthearted example, sure, but it highlights something real: the way manipulative behavior can shift blame and make the person reacting look like the problem.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URQLH3QGVyc

    At the end of the day, communication is everything. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t brush it aside. Talk it out, set boundaries, and trust your intuition. Healthy relationships — whether romantic, platonic, or family — are built on empathy, accountability, and effort from both sides.

    It’s okay to call out truly harmful behavior, but let’s also leave space for growth, grace, and understanding. Because not everything that’s uncomfortable is toxic — sometimes it’s just human.

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  • ❄️ Chilling Out at Stockholm’s Famous ICEBAR

    ❄️ Chilling Out at Stockholm’s Famous ICEBAR

    There’s just something magical about travel, isn’t there? The thrill of exploring somewhere new, the little surprises tucked into every street corner, and that first sip of a local drink you’ll dream about for years to come. ✈️ I’ve been daydreaming about my next adventure, but until then, I’ve been reminiscing about one of my coolest (literally!) travel experiences — visiting the ICEBAR in Stockholm!

    Sweden stole my heart for so many reasons, but one of the highlights had to be how easy it was to get around. The Stockholm public transportation system is a traveler’s dream — clean, efficient, and super easy to navigate. My friends and I hopped on the metro and followed the map right to Hotel C Stockholm, where the ICEBAR is located. And let me tell you, getting there felt like part of the adventure! If you ever need a hand, the station attendants are kind and helpful, and in my experience, Swedes are some of the friendliest people — especially when you ask with a smile.

    Walking into the hotel, you’ll see signs leading you down a hallway to the bar. That’s where the magic begins. Don’t worry — they’ve got you covered (literally!) with warm coats and gloves before you step inside. Everything, and I mean everything, is made of ice — the walls, the chairs, the glasses, even the bar itself! It’s like walking straight into a frozen fairytale. I chickened out on sitting in the icy “Game of Thrones” throne (I’m from Iowa, but I still have my cold limits! 😂), but I did snap some seriously fun photos.

    Now let’s talk about the drinks. I tried a vodka and elderberry syrup cocktail, and I’m not exaggerating when I say it made my Top 3 Drinks of All Time list. It was crisp, slightly sweet, and the perfect contrast to the chilly atmosphere. I could’ve easily stayed there all night — if not for the freezing temps, of course.

    If you ever find yourself in Stockholm, do yourself a favor and stop by the ICEBAR. It’s such a unique, bucket-list-worthy experience. Whether you go for the photos, the cocktails, or just the novelty of sipping from a glass made of ice, it’s an adventure you won’t forget. I’m already counting down the days until I can go back!

    Have you ever been to the ICEBAR or something like it? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments below — let’s share some cozy travel stories together. 💙

  • Movie Review: Mulan (Live-Action) — A Fresh Take on a Classic Heroine

    Movie Review: Mulan (Live-Action) — A Fresh Take on a Classic Heroine

    I finally watched the Mulan live-action remake this weekend with my fiancé, and honestly — I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it! Between the controversy and all the early reviews, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the film turned out to be beautifully done and full of powerful moments. Here’s what stood out to me most:

    💄 Mulan’s Makeup & Costumes

    Can we take a moment to appreciate the makeup and costume design? Absolutely breathtaking! The artistry behind Mulan’s look was both elegant and historically inspired. Every detail — from the subtle symbolism in her colors to the intricate fabrics — added so much depth to her character. The makeup might have leaned a bit dramatic at times, but honestly, it worked. The overall visual experience was stunning.

    🐉 Xianniang, the Witch

    One of the biggest surprises for me was how much I adored Xianniang (played by the incredible Gong Li). While I originally hoped the live-action version would stay closer to the animated film, this addition brought an unexpected layer of complexity. Xianniang’s story felt symbolic — showing what Mulan could become if she let her power isolate her. It was haunting, empowering, and completely mesmerizing.

    👑 Jet Li as the Emperor

    Epic. Just epic. I do wish they aged him up slightly for the role, but it’s Jet Li — he can do no wrong. His calm authority and subtle power were perfect for the character.

    🎖️ “Honor to Us All” Moment

    One of my favorite parts of the movie was when Mulan finally restores honor to her family. The emotion in that scene hit so beautifully — it felt like a love letter to the spirit of the original.

    🌸 The Reveal

    Without giving too much away, Mulan’s reveal as a woman plays out differently in this version — and I actually loved it. It felt more intentional and mature, highlighting her bravery rather than shame or fear.

    .

    What I Would’ve Changed

    Of course, no remake is without a few things I wish were handled differently:

    • Mushu & the Phoenix:
      I had mixed feelings here. The phoenix was visually stunning, especially in the moments where it paralleled Mulan’s growth — but I missed Mushu’s playful spark. The film could’ve used just a touch more humor or warmth.
    • The Love Interest:
      While I appreciated seeing Mulan as an independent heroine, there was definitely some subtle chemistry with one of her fellow soldiers. I wasn’t mad about it — just curious where it could have gone.
    • The Controversy:
      It’s impossible to ignore the backlash surrounding Liu Yifei’s political comments. While I understand that actors are entitled to their opinions, I wish her response had been more thoughtful given the context. Still, I don’t believe that should overshadow the artistry of the film itself.

    Final Thoughts

    Mulan is visually stunning, emotionally rich, and refreshingly empowering. While it takes creative liberties from the original, it still captures the heart of the story — courage, honor, and self-discovery. If you missed it in theaters, it’s now streaming on Disney+, and I’d definitely recommend giving it a watch.

    Grab some popcorn, pour a glass of wine, and let yourself get swept up in the story. I’d love to hear your thoughts — did you love it, or do you prefer the animated version? Let’s chat in the comments!

    I often feel that any movie remake, especially when it comes to Disney’s live-action versions of their animated classics, will be scrutinized for flaws or perceived shortcomings. With that said, here are a few observations I have about what could have been done differently.

  • My Fairytale Pandemic Engagement ✨

    My Fairytale Pandemic Engagement ✨

    I have the most magical news to share—last week, my boyfriend of three years asked me to marry him! 💍 I was completely caught off guard and absolutely over the moon. Growing up, I always adored Cinderella, and Josh made my childhood dream come true with the most romantic, fairytale-worthy proposal. To top it off, he even surprised me with a stunning Cinderella ring from the Disney Bridal Collection. I still can’t stop staring at it—it’s pure magic!

    We’ve already started planning for our big day, aiming for a summer 2022 wedding. It hasn’t been easy with everything going on in the world, but we’re determined to make it happen. Our guest list is shaping up beautifully, and we’re so excited to pick our wedding party once we can celebrate together in person. In the meantime, we’re taking premarital classes online and soaking up every joyful moment of being engaged.

    To keep the celebration going, I subscribed to the Miss to Mrs. Bridal Box, and I’m officially obsessed! My first box included the cutest bridal goodies— a desktop wedding countdown, a bridal appointment planner, jewelry wipes, a sleek portable mug, an inflatable “love” sign, and a gorgeous necklace. Each item feels like a sweet reminder of this exciting new chapter, and I can’t wait to see what the next box brings. (Stay tuned—I might do an unboxing soon!)

    💍 Bonus Tip for Brides-to-Be:
    If you’re in the midst of wedding planning, I highly recommend the Kate Spade Bridal Planner. With 48 beautifully designed planning pages, it covers everything—from your wedding checklist to honeymoon prep. It’s stylish, practical, and makes staying organized a total breeze.

    I’m so grateful for this season of love and excitement. To all my fellow brides-to-be, I’d love to hear your engagement stories and any wedding planning advice you have! Drop your tips and stories in the comments below—let’s share in the joy together. 💕

     Miss to Mrs bridal box

    The goodies!

     Kate Spade bridal planner

    Find our photographer at:
    Nataliegaydar.com

  • Finding My Balance: Living Healthier with Diabetes 🌿

    Finding My Balance: Living Healthier with Diabetes 🌿

    Living with diabetes is a journey that’s constantly evolving — full of ups, downs, and lessons along the way. Right now, though, I finally feel like I’ve found something that truly works for me.

    If you’ve been following along, you might remember that I left off in a pretty rough place. I was first diagnosed with diabetes around 19 years old, and it completely took me by surprise. At the time, I weighed barely 110 pounds, hit the gym every single day, and ate what I thought was a clean, balanced diet. Still, I was always exhausted, had dark circles that no concealer could hide, and was constantly thirsty. Deep down, I knew something was off.

    Eventually, things got worse — to the point where I ended up in the hospital. Recovery took months, and it forced me to face the truth: I needed to make real changes. And thankfully, I did.

    Fast forward to today, and I can finally say this — I feel alive again. I haven’t felt this good in years! My doctor started me on Ozempic, and honestly, it has been a total game-changer. If you’re managing diabetes and struggling to find the right fit, I hope this gives you a little hope. I’ve lost about 15 pounds, my energy is back, and I genuinely feel (and look!) so much healthier.

    That’s not to say it was easy. When I first started Ozempic, the side effects were rough — nausea, fatigue, the works. But with time and patience, those symptoms faded, and I’m so glad I didn’t give up. My medical team has been absolutely incredible, and I’m so thankful for their guidance and support through it all.

    The only downside? Ozempic isn’t recommended during pregnancy, so that’s something I’ll need to plan for in the future. But for now, I’m just taking it one day at a time and celebrating how far I’ve come. Diabetes will always be part of my life, but right now, I’m feeling strong, balanced, and hopeful for what’s ahead. 💪✨

    If you’re navigating your own health journey — with diabetes or anything else — know that it’s okay to take your time finding what works for you. Be patient, listen to your body, and celebrate every little win along the way. 💕

    Here I am walking my mom’s dog Riis – he’s so goofy

  • Finding My Voice: Reflections on Race, Resilience, and Hope

    Finding My Voice: Reflections on Race, Resilience, and Hope

    The last couple of months have been heavy — really heavy. Between living through a global pandemic and witnessing the ongoing fight against police brutality and racism, it’s been a lot to process. Today, I wanted to slow down, take a deep breath, and write from the heart about some of my personal experiences and how I’m feeling right now.

    Growing up, I had “the talk” — the one that so many Black families have. It wasn’t about birds or bees; it was about how to act around police and how to keep myself safe. I learned early on that if something ever happened, I should call my family first — not necessarily the police. It’s an unfair reality, but it’s one that has been passed down through generations.

    As someone who’s mixed, my experience has always existed in a sort of in-between space. I’ve been surrounded by love from family on all sides, but I’ve also had to sit through uncomfortable moments — moments when people questioned white privilege, dismissed “Black Lives Matter” with “Blue Lives Matter,” or ignored racism simply because it didn’t affect them personally. Those conversations hurt. They chipped away at something inside me for a while.

    But instead of letting that pain change how I see myself, it changed how I see them.
    It taught me who was willing to listen — and who wasn’t. It showed me that silence in the face of racism is just another form of harm. And though it’s exhausting to always be the one explaining why Black lives matter, I’ve learned to find strength in my voice.

    Sometimes, I still feel drained — like I’ve hit a wall. It’s frustrating to live in a world where I have to defend my humanity, to explain history that’s easily accessible if people just cared enough to learn. But at the same time, I have hope. I see friends, family, and communities showing up, speaking out, and learning how to be better allies.

    That gives me strength.
    That gives me peace.

    I’m still learning how to navigate certain relationships — especially with people I love who hold views I can’t support. But I know I’ll find what’s right for me, and I hope you will too.

    Change takes courage. It takes compassion. And it takes choosing to care, every single day. I still believe we can get there — with open hearts, honest conversations, and a shared hope for something better.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ3in6eZb9w