News in the New Year: What We're Excited For in 2014

This past year brought us memorable feel-good stories and compelling, picture-perfect moments, but with January under way, we're looking ahead to all the newsy, can't-miss moments approaching in 2014. Along with major milestones for famous figures like Michelle Obama and Prince Harry, the new year will also usher in the Winter Olympics, Brazil's World Cup, Malala Yousafzai's latest inspiration, and plenty of adorable appearances from Prince George and another royal baby that's due in the coming months. As we say goodbye to 2013, take a look at some of the exciting news you can look forward to in 2014!

The First Lady's 50th Birthday
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The First Lady's 50th Birthday

On Jan. 17, Michelle Obama will turn 50, and there's sure to be some fun festivities fit for the first lady. After all, back in 2011, President Barack Obama celebrated his 50th birthday with a big bash at the White House. He busted out some dance moves alongside his wife, Jay Z, Tom Hanks, and more. Maybe she'll take the mic to perform some songs from her hip-hop album?

Another Royal Baby
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Another Royal Baby

Prince George is getting another second cousin! Prince William and Prince Harry's cousin, Zara Tindall, first confirmed her pregnancy in July, and she's reportedly due sometime early in the New Year. It's the first child for Zara and her husband, Mike Tindall, and the pair has been married since July 2011. Now those will be some adorable playdates.

The Winter Olympics
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The Winter Olympics

It's that time again — the Winter Olympic Games are heading to Sochi, Russia, where athletes from across the globe will be competing for world titles. The games are set to kick off with opening ceremonies on Feb. 7, and we'll get to watch skiing, skating, ice hockey, curling, bobsledding, and more.

Ronan Farrow's New TV Show
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Ronan Farrow's New TV Show

Ronan Farrow made headlines in the Fall when his mom, actress Mia Farrow, suggested to Vanity Fair that Frank Sinatra could possibly be his father, rather than her longtime partner, Woody Allen, who's been assumed to be Ronan's dad. With unique family ties, his kid-genius status, and his hilarious Twitter feed, Ronan is a fascinating figure, which is why we can't wait to see what's in store for his upcoming MSNBC show. Having served in the Obama administration and alongside Hillary Clinton, he's no political newbie, and although details haven't been released, his show will likely offer a fresh, young spin on current events.

The World Cup
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The World Cup

The FIFA World Cup 2014 starts on June 12, finishing up on July 13, and preparations are well under way in Brazil, where construction continues on the Arena de São Paulo. And sure, the sporting aspect is exciting, but let's be honest — soccer also brings together a lot of good-looking guys.

Prince George's Major Milestones
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Prince George's Major Milestones

Between his arrival, his christening, and all the royal-baby fever, Prince George's first year has already kicked off with plenty of excitement. In 2014, the buzz is going to continue with little "Georgie" celebrating his first birthday, heading out on his first royal tour, and hanging out with hilarious Uncle Harry.

More From Malala
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More From Malala

Sixteen-year-old Taliban-shooting survivor Malala Yousafzai took the media by storm in 2013, visiting with everyone from President Obama to Queen Elizabeth II as she raised awareness about terrorism, girls education, and more. Throughout her busy year, she released a book, I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up For Education and Was Shot by the Taliban, became the youngest person to be nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, and blew people away with her inspiring speech on The Daily Show. Jon Stewart called her "one of the finest examples of the human spirit," and she's sure to bring more wisdom and insights to the world in 2014.

Gay Rights Activism
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Gay Rights Activism

There were more than a few major strides for gay rights in 2013, with famous faces coming out as gay role models, Pope Francis expressing acceptance, and the Supreme Court's decision to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act. Meanwhile, across the US, more and more states legalized gay marriage, marking a special time in history as LGBT couples said, "I do." Still, despite the movement's big year, gay rights activism still has a way to go, and 2014 is sure to carry more news on progress.

Prince Harry's Big 3-0
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Prince Harry's Big 3-0

The world has watched Prince Harry grow up in the spotlight, and on Sept. 15, the redheaded royal will celebrate his 30th birthday. This past year was a big one for Harry, because not only did he become an uncle, but he also toured the US, trekked to the South Pole, and made headlines with his love life. But if there's any truth to the rumor mill, 2013 will be even bigger, and reports say he's ready to propose to his girlfriend, Cressida Bonas.

Will She or Won't She?
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Will She or Won't She?

There's been plenty of speculation over whether or not Hillary Clinton will run for president in 2016, and the former secretary of state will be nailing down her plans soon. During an interview with Barbara Walters in December, Hillary said she'll decide whether to run in 2014, saying, "I haven't made up my mind. I really have not. I will look carefully at what I think I can do and make that decision sometime next year." Typically, presidential candidates announce their plans after midterm elections, so we can likely expect to find out whether Hillary will run sometime after November.