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Football season is back, and whether it’s NFL Sundays or college football Saturdays, we’re happy to have another excuse to gather with friends and family. If football isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy being together and the benefits of good company. Today’s picks celebrate the people who make daily routines, shared meals, and unexpected detours a little more special.
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Books on Finding Your People
Every friend was once a stranger. These joyful reads bring unlikely groups together and show how quickly people can begin to feel like family.
Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting
by Clare Pooley
Every morning, advice columnist Iona Iverson rides the same train with the same passengers—and follows the unwritten rule that commuters never speak. When one passenger suddenly needs help, the silence is broken, and the familiar strangers begin sharing their lives. Their daily commute soon becomes a warm, funny support system no one knew they needed.
The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers
by Samuel Burr
Clayton Stumper was raised by an eccentric community of crossword creators, maze designers, codebreakers, and other devoted puzzlers. When the woman who brought them together leaves Clayton one final mystery to solve, the entire fellowship helps him piece together his past. This charming novel celebrates chosen family, wonderfully unusual people, and the joy of finding exactly where you fit.
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Feel-Good Spotlight
Nonnas
Streaming on Netflix
Vince Vaughn stars as Joe Scaravella, who opens an Italian restaurant and recruits four local grandmothers to run the kitchen. What begins as a tribute to his mother grows into a lively second family, with Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, and Brenda Vaccaro serving old recipes, strong opinions, and plenty of heart.
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Better Together
These comedies follow friends who keep returning to one another through life’s ups and downs.
Harlem
Streaming on Prime Video
Camille, Tye, Quinn, and Angie are four stylish, ambitious best friends navigating careers, romances, and big-city surprises in Harlem. Their lives may move in different directions, but brunches, celebrations, and group chats always bring them back together. From Girls Trip writer Tracy Oliver, this lively comedy understands that every new chapter is easier—and much funnier—with your closest friends beside you.
The Four Seasons
Streaming on Netflix
Three couples have spent years vacationing together, returning every season for familiar traditions, shared meals, and a little friendly chaos. When one couple’s marriage unexpectedly ends, the group must figure out how their friendship can adapt without falling apart. Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Colman Domingo, and Will Forte lead this funny ensemble series about the people who know all your quirks and still save you a seat.
Hotel Spotlight
Together with Inside Hotels
Virgin Hotels Dallas
The Vibe: Design inspo
The Location: Dallas, TX
Instaworthy Accommodations:
Virgin Hotels Dallas does boutique differently. From their one-of-a-kind patented bed design to sit-down makeup vanities and walk-in showers, all 268 chambers offer sophisticated amenities, plus a few surprises. In the heart of Dallas’ Design District, Virgin Hotels Dallas is central to all the best activities and sights Dallas has to offer. Start your day with leisurely people watching at Klyde Warren Park, find creative inspiration in the numerous art galleries, and chow down at the best barbeque joint in all of Dallas, Pecan Lodge. Alternatively, spend time at the on-site pool club and lounges with daily activities for everyone to enjoy.
Read It, Stream It
The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat
by Edward Kelsey Moore
Odette, Clarice, and Barbara Jean have spent decades meeting at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat, where they share meals, trade stories, and carry one another through every new turn. Edward Kelsey Moore’s warm, funny novel follows their lifelong friendship, while the screen adaptation stars Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Sanaa Lathan, and Uzo Aduba. Pick either version for a heartfelt celebration of friends who keep showing up.
Hotel Spotlight
Together with Inside Hotels
Epicurean Atlanta
The Vibe: Urban foodie escape
The Location: Atlanta, GA
Instaworthy Accommodations:
At Epicurean Atlanta, food isn’t just part of the stay, it’s the main event. This culinary-driven Midtown hotel pairs 178 sleek rooms and suites with experiences designed for people who love to eat, drink, and learn. Catch a cooking class or tasting at the Epicurean Theatre, then head nine floors up to the Sky Terrace for a dip in the zero-edge pool. When hunger strikes, Aerial Kitchen & Bar serves Latin American-inspired bites and cocktails alongside skyline views. Add Atlanta’s buzzing Midtown location, and you’ve got all the ingredients for one delectable city getaway.
