Ready or not, Monday's almost here. We've got what you need to prep for the week ahead — from the biggest conversation starters to the most important dates. Who says Sundays have to be scary?
President Biden is putting the final touches on his second State of the Union address.
Go on.
On Tuesday, Biden will deliver the nation's annual report card to Congress — and the American people, via major news networks. It comes as Congress is deeply divided (reminder: both the GOP and Dems narrowly control the House and Senate, respectively) and the president's own house is under a microscope (yes, the classified docs controversy). It also comes as only 23% of Americans are satisfied with how things are going in our country — though that's up 6% from a year ago. In addition to highlighting the ways the economy's moving in the right direction, Biden may try to boost his support by talking about...
Foreign affairs. Last year, Biden's SOTU happened just days after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This year, it's happening just days after announcing $2.2 billion in new aid for Ukraine. And as more and more Americans say we're spending too much. Also of note: China.In recent months, Biden has indicated support of Taiwan and the US just announced plans to expand its military presence in the Philippines to provide extra protection in the region. All of that strained already tense US-China relations, which is why Secretary of State Antony Blinken was supposed to travel to Beijing this weekend. That is, until a spy balloon entered the equation, and blew things even further off-course. (More on that in a bit.)
Bipartisanship and the debt ceiling. This will be Biden's first speech to Congress since the GOP took control of the House. So, he's likely to emphasize bipartisan achievements (think: the infrastructure bill, Safer Communities Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act). And areas where his admin wants more common ground, namely the debt ceiling.
Police reform and gun control. The White House will have a few important guests in the audience, including Tyre Nichols's parents and Brandon Tsay, the man who disarmed the shooter in Monterey Park, CA. So some want Biden to push for more police reform — and more gun control. Worth noting: Since New Years, at least 69 people have lost their lives in dozens of mass shootings.
theSkimm
Once again, it's time for the president to make the case for himself and his agenda to the American people. This year, the stakes may be even higher: Biden is reportedly on the heels of officially announcing his 2024 reelection bid. TBD how voters — and Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R-AR), who's delivering the GOP rebuttal — will respond.
What's Happening
📰 In news…
The US shot down a Chinese spy balloon over the Atlantic yesterday, after it had floated over the country for days. Meanwhile, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is packing up a few final boxes before her last day in office. And the Northeast is defrosting after a "historic Arctic outbreak." Oh, and a German woman was charged for murdering her lookalike, while the Dallas Zoo charged a young man with serious monkey business.
📈 In business…
Despite widespread tech layoffs, US employers added half a million jobs in January, sending the unemployment rate to its lowest level since 1969. Also in America, workaholic guys are finally giving work-life balance a spin — as other countries outlaw after-work emails and calls. Meanwhile, de-influencers might be the new influencers. And inflation chickens may make egg-cellent pets.
Here's what's at the bottom of the Laundress' stained reputation. And why buccal fat removal is all over your feed. Plus, one report shows most Americans are in favor of extinguishing tobacco sales. Also, it turns out there may have been a treatment for menopause all along.
Bookmark'd
Here's a look at the reads we've saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…
We've Lost the Plot...is this the real life? Or is this just fantasy? There's a reason you can't tell the difference.
The Oh-So-Popular Popcorn Dress...another early aughts fashion staple is back — and proving to be a go-to for every occasion.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Sentimental Valentine's Day gifts that'll make them say 'aw.' We're talking personalized art, conversation-sparking journals, and date-night inspo. Time to bring some fuzzy feelings to the table.
2. Our recs for winter scarves and snoods under $100. We've rounded up some of our faves of the season to keep you feeling warm and looking chic, without spending three figures.
3. Energy-saving devices that'll save you money in the long run. These efficient products and smart home devices will make your wallet a lil' bigger and your life a lil' easier. Score.
Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.
Sunday Scaries, Who?
Here's one tip for a better start to your week.
Struggle with Sunday-somnia? You're not alone. If you're tired of constantly being tired, don't sleep on savoring — aka when you focus on a positive experience in extreme detail. Not only can savoring help boost your mood and reduce anxiety, researchers believe it can also improve the quality of your sleep. That's because it helps your brain focus on something "emotionally compelling and pleasurable," rather than worrying about things like the week ahead. Here are a few tips to get started…
Get specific. Pick a happy memory. It can be something big, small, or even something you're looking forward to in the future. Then, make it as detailed as possible by focusing on all five senses. What do you hear? What do you smell? What do you see?
Schedule a worry session. Several hours before bed, grab a journal and a pen. Set a timer for 15 minutes and jot down everything you're worrying about. Then set it aside, enjoy your eve, and hit the hay with a clear head.
Make it a habit. Train your brain to savor ordinary moments. Think: sipping your first cup of coffee, inhaling the rich scent of a new candle, or listening to the birds outside. The more you practice, the easier it becomes.
Save the Date
Like ours, your work and personal calendars are probably hectic. So here are some events you should know about...
Celebrate National Pizza Day with one of these deals. Sure to put some pep in your step.
The first part of "You" season 4 premieres. Grab your baseball cap.
PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.
News Quiz
Stumped by our news quiz yesterday? Here's the answer.
