So far, Jinger Duggar's in-love behavior has included claiming that she's no longer hungry because she's in a relationship, blatant front-hugging, declaring that she and fiancé Jeremy Vuolo will be circumventing traditional Duggar courting rules, and most recently, incessantly texting and video calling Jeremy, even in the very depths of the wilderness, to the chagrin of her siblings and the world.
On the latest episode of Counting On, the older Duggars, sans Jill and Jessa, trekked around in the wilds of Missouri in order to learn survival skills (I'm not sure why). While some Duggars focused on learning things, others (Joy) narrowly avoided being eaten by bears, and Jinger refused to tear herself away from her phone whenever she had reception so she and Jeremy could talk. The two have been clear that they want to fast-track their courtship into engagement (so they can have babies soon), which apparently worked, since they're now engaged, but at this point in the show, it seems like the plan is to learn as much about each other as is humanly possible via phone and Skype.
Jinger's siblings looked on while she talked to Jeremy, giving her a lot of side-eye and interviewing that their sister was super distracted. Josiah joked that Jinger would die if she didn't have reception, and Joy said that it was both funny and irritating that Jinger was glued to her phone, but admitted that even though it was annoying to watch, she herself would probably end up being the worst of all when her time came.
Jinger wasn't unaware that she was more or less totally checked out of the supposed sibling bonding time, which, in addition to foraging for edibles in the wilderness, also included constructing and sleeping in debris shelters (although the first part of the trip was spent sleeping inside an RV with beds and flushing toilets). She reflected on watching Jessa and Jill go through courting, being similarly glued to their phones and gushing over their respective dudes. She hadn't imagined herself acting in the same way, but clearly, things have changed between then and now.
If we didn't know that Jinger and Jeremy's relationship wouldn't be forever dictated by the tenets of patriarchy (Jeremy as head of household instead of partner, Jinger relegated to breeding), I might think that what was going on between them is cute, but it's hard to do that, seeing as Jinger's fate isn't going to be different from that of her mother and sisters, and marrying Jeremy is just how she's getting there. She is happy, though, and at least this way, she gets an iPhone.
For so many of us who consider ourselves sexually forward, anal is the final frontier. There's a lot of confusion about this back door sex act — namely, is it going to hurt and how much? Is it going to be messy? And am I even going to like it? — which is exactly why we've asked the sexperts to help us understand what's going on. If anal is something you've always wanted to try but haven't had the guts to do yet, these positions can make the first go-round much easier.
As the saying goes, prime real estate is all about location, location, location. The same principle applies to anal sex. It's all about position, position, position. And don't forget the lube — lots and lots of slippery lube to make your first time more enjoyable.
Our saucy sexperts say these beginner anal sex positions are the perfect fit:
1. Cowgirl (or cowboy)
Image: SheKnows Design
In the traditional cowgirl position, your partner lies down while you mount on top — yeehaw! As the partner on top, you can ease into anal penetration by moving up or down as needed. Pro tip: Make sure your bottom partner does not begin to thrust until you're good and ready.
Certified Master Sex Expert and Educator, Sex Coach and "So Tight" Sensual Fitness Personal Trainer Nikki Ransom endorses the cowgirl position for anal newbies. She explains, "This position will allow you to control the pace and depth that his penis goes inside of you. Remember to go at an easy pace and stay relaxed. It helps to have had an orgasm already and be highly aroused."
Jessica O’Reilly (a.k.a. Dr. Jess, Ph.D.), author, international speaker and PlayboyTV's sexologist, offers an alternative to the cowgirl in her book The New Sex Bible, "If she doesn’t like the sensation of deep penetration, but he desires more stimulation against the base of his shaft, she can reach backwards with a warm, wet hand to grasp the lower half of his shaft. Her hand becomes an extension of her butt while providing a physical buffer to ensure only shallow penetration."
2. Doggy style
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This position is most often associated with anal because it has major advantages. As the partner on the bottom, you can stay loose as you control penetration to increase pleasure. Getting busy on all fours may be your best bet if you have attempted and found anal painful in the past.
Patricia Johnson and Mark Michaels, co-authors of Designer Relationships, Partners in Passion, Great Sex Made Simple, Tantra for Erotic Empowerment and The Essence of Tantric Sexuality, recommend doggy style for first-timers and those who may have had an unpleasant experience before. The couple says, "Anal sex should never be painful. Always use plenty of lube and proceed slowly and gently." Ransom adds, "Rub and stimulate your clitoris too to make it even more pleasurable."
In The New Sex Bible, Dr. Jess has a different take on doggy-style anal sex. She recommends the modified doggy to give the receptive partner more control, support intimacy and provide the opportunity for double penetration. Dr. Jess explains, "She assumes a kneeling position with her butt cheeks on her heels and her knees spread wide open. She places her hands on her knees or the bed for support. He assumes the same position behind her and adjusts his height so that the head of his [penis] rests below her bum. He remains static as she lowers herself onto his head and takes a few deep breaths before sliding farther down his shaft. She drives her butt and hips up and down at her own pace as he reaches around to fondle her breasts or rub her clitoris."
3. Face to face
Image: SheKnows Design
This position is preferred if you are looking for extra intimacy during the act. Start with your partner sitting as you mount his lap, face-to-face. Once again — as the partner on top, you can control depth of penetration to stay comfy. Face-to-face anal has the added bonus of extra stimulation for a woman: breasts, clitoris, go crazy!
Johnson and Michaels love face-to-face anal for the toe-tingling intimacy it provides. They confirm, "This position facilitates using eye contact and breath to build even more arousal."
Dr. Jess agrees. She says, "I like this position as it allows the 'mounter' to exercise a good amount of control of the depth and rhythm of penetration. Wear a vibrating c*** ring for this one to provide extra pleasurable sensations as the top partner grinds against his shaft."
When it comes to anal, missionary will never steer you wrong. Approach this favorite vanilla sex position with a backdoor twist: In the missionary position, place your legs on his shoulders. With the right amount of lube and relaxation, even initial penetration should be pleasurable.
Missionary is easy-peasy for most maiden voyages, but Johnson and Michaels caution that this anal move may not work for everyone, "Some people may not be sufficiently flexible for this position." For those who are flexible and looking to try new things, Dr. Jess explains her take on missionary, "Better yet, place the soles of your feet against his shoulders so that you can push back and release according to your preferences."
5. On the stomach
Image: SheKnows Design
Anal on the stomach is comfortable and easy, with the right prep work beforehand. First-timers can relax and make penetration enjoyable by lying on top of a pillow placed under the stomach. For women, this elevates the backside nicely and still gives enough room to stimulate other body parts.
Johnson and Michaels recommend incorporating sex toys into the act to keep things interesting, "This is a great position for stimulating your own clitoris or using a vibrator."
Because of the opportunity for sex toy play, Dr. Jess adds that on-the-stomach anal can be especially favorable to the ladies. She says, "This is one of the best anal sex positions for women (as the receptive partner), as she can reach down to stimulate her pubic mound and clitoral shaft with her hand or a flat vibrator (try the We-Vibe Touch). The dual stimulation helps to increase arousal, which heightens relaxation to create a cascade of orgasmic sensations."
6. Spooning, with a twist
Image: SheKnows Design
We are all familiar with spooning for some great side-by-side action. Spooning is also a top choice for anal since both partners are more likely to be relaxed. As the "little spoon," you can make penetration easier by curling up and pulling your upper legs slightly toward your upper body. And while you're at it, here's a naughty little secret to double your pleasure — use a vibrator to get to the finish line.
According to Dr. Jess, spooning is the perfect first-time anal position for lovers. Johnson and Michaels add a helpful tip from their own bedroom experience, "You can give your partner a better view of the action by holding your upper leg just below the knee and opening up."
Ransom also believes that spooning is ideal for a pleasurable beginner anal experience. "This is a great position to stay relaxed in. It also allows for clitoral stimulation and vaginal stimulation for a trigasm." She advises, "Stay relaxed — your partner should enter you an inch at a time. Then, allow your anus to become accustomed and relax around his penis. Then [he can] enter you another inch and another, and continue until he is all the way in. Be sure to have plenty of lubrication with any anal penetration."
Originally published Jan. 2015. Updated Sept. 2016.
Sports parents are a unique breed. They happily shuffle kids to and from practices, tournaments, meets and matches. They stay up until the wee hours of the morning preparing and packing enough snack food to feed a small army. They spend their weekends scrubbing grass stains out of knee pads and trying to launder sweaty uniforms into smell-free submission.
They are, without a doubt, avid spectators. Sports parents fill the stands and linger along the sidelines, cheering on their little all-stars. And accordingly, there are certain defining moments all sports parents will recognize — here are eight sure to resonate with moms and dads of budding athletes.
1. The first time you see them put their team first
You know how grand your kid's visions of Olympic glory are, so it's saying something when they choose to do something for the greater good of the team. It's an even bigger deal if it means they don't get that classic "and the crowd goes wild" moment you know they've been dreaming of.
All the kids on the team want your snacks? What a time to be alive! Now you just have to resist the urge to shout, "You like me... you really, really like me," so you can instead focus on slicing 500 more oranges and freezing thousands of grapes.
You may have thought your wedding was the best day of your life, but that was before you watched your little one score their first goal, make their first basket or slide into home for the very first time.
Just joking — the day your kid scores the winning goal? Now that really is the best day of your life — every single time. Don't worry; crying is a totally acceptable reaction (at least that's what I tell myself).
You suspected your kid had mad skills, but daaaaang — seeing them maneuver their way out of a tricky situation in the middle of a game makes you think they might be ready for, oh you know, the major leagues. Or at the very least, a nickname denoting their speed, like "Benny 'The Jet' Rodriguez."
6. The moment when your kid assists the other team — not on purpose
Hey, it happens sometimes! But you know, it can be a little jarring to the system when you see it for the first time. At some point or another, every sports mom will watch as her precious angel scores a point for the opponent. Just smile and cheer, Mama... just smile and cheer.
7. The moment when your kid assists the other team — on purpose
Ah, there it goes — that's what you're talking about! When your kid stops what they're doing to help up a player from the rival team, it's only natural to beam (read: cheer at the top of your lungs and/or get teary-eyed) over their good sportsmanship.
Oh no! When your kid takes a spill mid-game, there's no amount of namaste-ing that can keep a sports parent from wanting to run onto the field or court and scoop up their "baby" with wild abandon. But you sit tight, peer through the tiny slits in your hands now covering your face and wait for that most redeeming of moments when your kid dusts him- or herself off and gets back in the game.
Image: Tiffany Egbert/SheKnows
This post was sponsored by Embassy Suites by Hilton. Share your All-Star Moment herefor a chance to win a free one-night stay at any Embassy Suites. A Grand Prize winner will win free night stays for the entire team.
Of all of life's mysteries, here's one we've never been able to figure out: What compels dads to chuck their kids into the air? Sure, we all engage in a little airplane pretend play once in a while, but it takes a special kind of parent to escalate that into getting a kid actually airborne. The answer's probably the simplest one: Whatever it is that also compels kids to beg their dads to chuck them up into the air.
At least one dad in Texas had a legitimate reason for tossing his child skyward. How else would they have retrieved the balloon that had escaped his toddler's grasp and retreated to the ceiling? Not that his reason matters to the concern trolls who have called the video he took of that balloon retrieval "dangerous" and "scary."
To be fair, baby-tossing is kind of scary. It's probably why kids like it so much. It's not unlike riding a stupid-fast roller coaster, where the terror is superseded by the fun. Of course, not all of us like roller coasters. And not all of us can keep both of our eyes open or refrain from doing that gaspy-oh-my-gosh thing when someone tosses our little bundle of joy a few feet in the air.
If you're the second type of person, you may not want to watch this rad little kid snatch his balloon off the ceiling after his bodybuilding dad, Vaden Wennick, obliged his request to "Superman" him up to there.
The video was posted a few years ago, but after making the rounds on a few websites, it's getting attention again, and not all of that attention is virtual high-fives. Some people really object to this video despite the fact that no one's been hurt and the stunt is admittedly pretty impressive.
Sure, this method of "fun" might not be for you, but by the time a kid is that age, they can tell you if they hate being tossed around like a beach ball. Also, while they're more likely to get bumps, bruises and scrapes on what will sometimes seem like every square inch of their bodies, it's more likely that they'll get those from tripping over their own feet and hitting the coffee table at maximum velocity.
Honestly, while we're not huge fans of baby shot put, it's just hard to agree that Wennick's kid was in serious danger.
We know a lot more about baby and child safety now than we did a few years ago. It's why kids no longer sit up front on the bench seat in the family Buick or get the whiskey teething treatment. Stuff like that is common sense.
But stuff like this? Give it a rest. People have been lobbing their preschoolers heavenward since as far back as we can remember. It's never been a grave cause for concern before and shouldn't be now. Once we start slapping that danger label on physical play between kids and their parents, it won't be long until we have to walk it all the way back — no more bear hugs, no more Ring A-Ring o' Rosies, and definitely no more sitting on shoulders to get a better view of the fireworks.
There are people out there who really do put their kids in real danger out of malice or apathy. We just don't buy that Wennick is one of them.
When we think of Bruce Springsteen, we think of, well, The Boss. A strong man in control of his life. A talented musician and a prolific humanitarian. He's still all of those things, and he's also a man who has experienced bouts of mental illness throughout his adult life.
He's proof that anybody — anybody — can suffer from depression, and hopefully his willingness to speak so openly about the illness that left him "crushed" in his early '60s will encourage other men to seek help.
Because there are a lot of them out there. According to the Movember Foundation, the highest rate of depression is in men aged 40 to 59. On average, 87 men each day die by suicide in the U.S. — more than four times the number of women. And every minute, somewhere in the world, a man dies by suicide.
Speaking to Vanity Fair ahead of the release of his autobiography, Born to Run, Springsteen credits his wife, Patti Scialfa, with helping him get through his mental health battle. “Patti will observe a freight train bearing down, loaded with nitroglycerin and running quickly out of track… she gets me to the doctors and says, 'This man needs a pill,'" he said.
Many people with mental illness struggle to share their feelings with someone else, but the support of a partner can be life-changing. Men in particular may find it tough to open up, simply because they're used to keeping a lid on challenging emotions. They may have assumed the role of the "strong" person in the family or grew up being discouraged from showing anything that could possibly be perceived as weakness.
Possible signs of depression in men include isolating themselves from others, aggressive behavior, feelings of helplessness or worthlessness, drinking more than is normal for them and irritability. If you spot any of these signs in your loved one, the first step is to talk to him. Let him know you care, and ask what's going on with him and how he's feeling. And crucially, be prepared to listen without judgment.
If you think professional help is required, don't hesitate to make an appointment with a doctor or counselor. It's vital to have a solid support system in place — for you and for him.
I was completely stunned when I found out how Trader Joe's sells its beloved frozen cauliflower rice. For those not already acquainted with this cult product, cauliflower rice is simply the florets minced tiny so it resembles rice — or cooked quinoa, I think. At any rate, demand was so high for the stuff they actually had to start rationing it.
One store employee told me that they had to limit shoppers to only four bags at a time. Otherwise, people would hoard the stuff and they would run out almost the minute the put the bags out in the freezer section. In fact, the store wasn't even stocking cauliflower rice in the freezer section. You had to ask an employee to retrieve it from the stockroom. Because apparently, we can't control ourselves around cauliflower rice. (It's also been available at Wegmans.)
Let me remind you of something important. We are talking about cauliflower. The vegetable.
Anyway, supply may be slowly but surely catching up to demand. You need special equipment to do all that veggie ricing, and that requires additional capital investment, which requires planning... oh, blah blah blah. The point is Green Giant is producing cauliflower rice so the masses can enjoy it without the hassle. It should be available in stores nationwide toward the end of September.
Green Giant isn't the only one jumping on the trend, either. Online grocery retailer FreshDirect just introduced store-brand cauliflower rice at $5 for a 10-ounce tub this month. There are probably others — keep your eyes peeled. I have just one question, though. Will we still want cauliflower rice once everyone has access to cauliflower rice?
As an OG Grey's Anatomy fan, I understand that what I'm about to say may sound like sacrilege. But it must be said nonetheless — the new season teaser hints that Dr. Alex Karev could be in danger of leaving, and it's about time.
Before you skewer me, let me lead with this: I love Alex. I've been re-watching the entire series from the beginning over the last few weeks, and it has only reaffirmed my respect for this character's evolution. After all, do you remember what an A-hole Alex was when this crazy ride started?
Not only has he become a better person by leaps and bounds, but he is also pretty clutch around Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital — when something catastrophic is going down, he's the guy you want in your corner.
So at this point, you're probably wondering why I want him gone.
Before we delve into the reasons (yes, more than one), let's take a look at the just-released Season 13 teaser. Give it a watch below, and meet me after the jump.
Grey's Season 13 Sneak Peek
Grey's Season 13 Sneak Peek
Pretty intense, right? Obviously, Alex has found himself in some seriously hot water. After all, last season did end with him nearly beating the life out of DeLuca because he assumed the newcomer had taken advantage of Jo. It looks like the aftermath of that brouhaha is going to make us feel things. Big time.
Meredith mentions that Alex could go to jail, which would be interesting. Have we seen a character exit the show because they got sent to the clink? I don't think so, making it a pretty memorable way to be written off of the series.
You may be thinking, "Hold up! I thought Justin Chambers, who plays Alex, signed on for Season 13?" In which case, you'd be right. Back in March, Chambers did apparently confirm he had extended his contract into Season 13.
However, that doesn't guarantee he'll be around the entire season. Think about it — whether DeLuca's condition improves or deteriorates, it will take a few episodes to hash all of the drama out. Let's be real: It could take half the season. You know Grey's loves to draw things out with nail-biting suspense.
Realistically, that would put Alex exiting somewhere around mid-season. I'm OK with that.
As I mentioned earlier, I've truly enjoyed watching this character grow. As of late, though, that growth seems to be stunted to a certain extent. Honestly, he doesn't even get a ton of screen time anymore. This is by far the most exciting arc he has had in quite some time.
While I adore the abiding friendship between Alex and Meredith, what if this is the straw that breaks that proverbial camel's back? Without Jo or Meredith or his job (which he could very well lose), Alex would have no reason to stick around.
Now, time for a confession. I selfishly want Alex written off so that Chambers can pursue other opportunities. He's been in a few films over the years, and I always enjoy him. I mean, need I really remind you how adorable he was as Massimo in The Wedding Planner?
While I can see how Ellen Pompeo — who has said she might retire after Grey's ends — would have a hard time shaking her on-screen persona from the series, I feel like Chambers has untapped depth that could lend well to more movies or even a TV pilot where he is the central character.
So, sorry about your luck, Alex... but I think it's time to say goodbye to the good people of Grey's. It's been a glorious journey, but your character has grown tiresome. Time for a new adventure!
According to the report, 19-year-old Chelsea is being held in the psychiatric ward of a Long Island hospital for evaluation. It hasn't been determined when she will be released from the hospital, but she is "alert and awake" and safe, according to E! News.
The program that Chelsea was admitted to provides emergency psychiatric evaluations, as well as follow-up treatment like referrals and interventions, depending on what the patient needs. E! reports that Chelsea will be seen and evaluated by social workers, psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.
A rep for Rosie declined to comment on Chelsea's hospitalization.
This comes after a difficult year for Chelsea's health, and for her relationship with her adoptive mom, Rosie. Last summer, then 17-year-old Chelsea was reported missing from Rosie's home, only to be found later in the home of a 26-year-old man with a criminal record. No charges were filed after police determined that Chelsea was there voluntarily. But after that incident, when she turned 18, Chelsea chose to leave Rosie's home and move in with her birth mother. "Chelsea made a decision when she turned 18 that she wanted to go to her birth mother," Rosie's publicist said in a prepared statement at the time. "This was her choice."
The mother-daughter pair's relationship seems to have improved lately. Last week, Rosie posted a selfie with Chelsea in honor of her birthday, writing on Instagram, "happy birthday chelsea belle !!! 19 today #believe."
Last month, Rosie shared a selfie of the two of them together and wrote, "chelsea and me - what a difference a year makes. #hopelives."
Fall produce is so good it can almost make the end of summer feel like a good thing. But to make the most of the season (and not have to deal with cleaning rotted pumpkin off your fireplace mantel), it's important to store your favorite fruits and veggies properly. These tips below will help you enjoy the best the season has to offer, before the weather gets too cold and you officially swap out fresh fruit for hot cocoa.
1. Apples
Shelf life: Refrigerated apples can last for anywhere between four weeks and several months, as long as they're stored properly.
Storage: Store your apples in the crisper drawer of your fridge. A little humidity helps, so if your fridge's produce drawers don't have moisture control, you can lay a damp paper towel over the apples. And don't store any bruised apples with the rest of the bunch, or the ethylene gas emitted can turn them all overripe.
2. Pumpkin
Shelf life: Pumpkins can last between one and three months when stored properly.
Storage: Store pumpkins in a cool, dark, dry place. Don't store pumpkins on cement floors in your basement or garage, as this can cause them to rot. Put down a piece of plywood or cardboard first.
3. Pears
Shelf life: Five days after ripening.
Storage: Pears don't ripen on the tree. You should leave your pears at room temperature until ripe — the neck of the pear should yield slightly to pressure. Once ripe, store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for up to five days.
Storage: Store ripe figs in the fridge in a single layer on a paper towel-lined plate or bowl covered with plastic wrap.
5. Sweet potatoes
Shelf life: Two weeks.
Storage: Store your sweet potatoes in a cool, dry, dark place (not the fridge), away from onions. Why? Because they each emit a gas that will cause the other to spoil.
Storage: Remove any shriveled, moldy or loose grapes from your bunch. Store grapes in the packaging you bought them in (if the bag isn't perforated, snip it in a couple of places with kitchen shears to make some small ventilation holes) in the refrigerator, away from foods that emit strong odors, which they may absorb.
8. Shallots
Shelf life: One month.
Storage: Store shallots in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area (not the refrigerator).
9. Brussels sprouts
Shelf life: Three to five days.
Storage: Keep Brussels sprouts in a plastic bag in the fridge (poke a couple of holes in the bag for ventilation).
10. Cauliflower
Shelf life: Four to seven days.
Storage: Store cauliflower in the fridge in a plastic bag with a few holes poked in it for ventilation, along with a paper towel to absorb moisture that could cause it to prematurely rot.
Storage: Store beets in a plastic bag in the vegetable drawer of your refrigerator.
12. Broccoli
Shelf life: Two to three days.
Storage: Wrap broccoli in damp paper towels, and store in the refrigerator.
13. Cabbage
Shelf life: Three weeks to two months.
Storage: Keep cabbage in a plastic bag in your vegetable drawer.
14. Carrots
Shelf life: Four to five weeks.
Storage: Remove carrot tops, then store the whole carrots in a container of water in the refrigerator, swapping out the water every day. You can also wrap the carrots in damp paper towels and keep them in a sealed plastic bag in the fridge.
15. Persimmons
Shelf life: Two to three days once ripe.
Storage: Keep both fuyu and hachiya persimmons in a single layer at room temperature (buy hachiyas slightly underripe, then leave them at room temperature until they're supersoft and almost bursting at the seams before eating). Refrigerating them can cause damage to the fruit's flesh.
16. Pomegranates
Shelf life: Up to three months.
Storage: Keep pomegranates in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or airtight container.
If there's one diet tip (or myth, however you want to look at it) that has prevailed for several years —decades, even — it's that carbs are bad. Back in 1972, cardiologist Robert C. Atkins brought low-carb eating plan The Atkins Diet to the masses, and it remains a popular go-to diet today.
But recently, there have signs of a backlash against the no-carb camp. This week, fitness blogger Madalin Frodsham revealed how, after years of trying and failing to achieve the physique she wanted, she tried something quite different in 2016.
Frodsham revealed that she was eating only 800 calories a day — way below the recommended 1,500 calories per day to a achieve a sensible, 1-pound-per-week weight loss — but what's surprising is that in order to meet her fitness goals, Frodsham had to increase her daily calorie limit — and her carb intake.
It all comes down to macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats — those dietary components that the human body needs to thrive. And it's important to remember that everybody is different in terms of their calorie and macronutrient needs. But there's still no getting away from the fact that Frodsham (on the advice of a personal trainer and nutritional coach) completely overhauled her diet, making sure 50 percent of it came from carbohydrates (the complex kind, such as legumes, vegetables and whole grains), and as a result, she gained visible abs and cracking biceps, plus her energy levels went through the roof.
Just check out her Instagram post and see the transformation for yourself.
In his book Plant-Strong, Rip Esselstyn (fireman, triathlete and creator of the Engine 2 Diet) puts forward the case for a carb-rich diet. It's a strong argument: Carbs are our No. 1 energy source, so why would anyone who wants to be healthy, fit and strong cut them out?
We're not talking about refined carbohydrates here. No healthy diet should include vast amounts of soda, doughnuts, candy, white pasta, rice and bread or french fries. These are carbs, but they've been stripped of their goodness (fiber, water, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients) and won't do you any good whatsoever.
On the other hand, good (unrefined, unprocessed complex) carbs — whole grains, beans, vegetables and certain fruits — simply don't deserve the bad name so many eating plans give them. These carbs slowly and steadily release sugar into the bloodstream, which is then converted into energy by your body, rather than stored as fat. Plus your stomach fills up fast due to the energy and water retained, meaning overeating is unlikely.
In 2015, a National institutes of Health diet and weight-loss trial concluded that carbohydrate restriction wasn't required for body-fat loss, and that in actual fact, the type of calorie the body receives makes little difference to body-fat loss.
With so many weight-loss and healthy eating plans being thrown at us every day, it's easy to get confused. So let's keep it simple. What works for one person might not work for the next. And if you've been cutting carbs and haven't seen the results you want, it might just be time to let them back into your body.
Drake recently announced that he'd be opening a "classy" strip club in Houston. (Actually, to be fair, he never actually called it a strip club, but he said it would be a different experience). He announced on Instagram that the name of the club would be The Ballet. Cute name aside, you had us at "classy strip club."
Drake The Ballet
Drake The Ballet
"Tonight is a different take on how it should be done in Houston. Treat yourself don't cheat yourself. Where the women are on a pedestal and the surroundings are unforgettable."
Although we've never met the man, there's just something about the earnestness of nearly every single one of his raps that makes us feel like we get him.
So what would a Drake strip club look like? Here are 14 things we are sure would set the place apart.
1. There would be no stripper poles, but there would be plenty of comfy chairs so you'd have a place to talk about your feelings.
2. Each table would come with a list of affirmations to read. For example: "Girl, that was amazing. I really appreciate your talent. Would you like to go to Cheesecake after?"
13. Servers will wear "This is what a feminist looks like" tees.
14. Moscato.
Drake's Ballet Tweet
Drake's Ballet Tweet
"There's a culture out there of dancing and it's not about no strip club shit," he said. "It's about these amazing women that we've got in one spot, the music that we’ve got, and the Houston culture that we got. I just wanna let you know that I'm going to bring it to you in the most honest and genuine way possible," Drake said in this Twitter video.
Viewers of Teen Mom will already be familiar with Lowell's battle with anxiety and depression, which was well documented on the MTV docuseries. Monday's episode showed the dramatic height of Lowell's struggles and the moment when she finally decided something was wrong and she needed help.
"I decided I needed to get help from talking with Tyler and realizing that I maybe needed something more intense for myself," Lowell said in an interview with MTV News after the episode aired. "For some reason, I just had a lightbulb moment where I was like, 'Maybe I need extra help.'"
On Monday's episode, a dismayed Baltierra looked on as Lowell purchased a $3,000 mini pig. The reckless purchase — and the newfound responsibility of caring for a farm animal — made her realize she was over the edge.
"I just feel like I need help. 'Cause I wasn't really feeling good this morning, and I was having a little bit of anxiety last night," Lowell said on the show, adding that Baltierra had been telling her he was worried about her. "I just broke down and I was like, 'You know what, I'm not OK… I do need mental help. Something's just not right.'"
The episode was filmed before Lowell entered a treatment facility back in March.
"I'm seeking help for myself and my family," Lowell said in a statement at the time. "Thank you to all of my supporters. My family and I would appreciate some privacy at this time."
In April, Lowell updated her fans about her progress, tweeting, "Just wanted [you] to know I'm doing great! Best decision I have ever made for myself. I'll b home soon #thankyouforyoursupport."
Is it just us or was Kelly Ripa's big announcement on Live! kind of a let down?
On Wednesday's episode, Ripa teased her big announcement throughout the show, but when it came time for the big reveal, it turned out it was just a contest. One viewer will get a chance to co-host with Ripa, which may be big for diehard fans of the show, but for the rest of us, it felt seriously overhyped.
For anyone who's interested, Live! is asking fans to submit videos — no longer than one minute in length — explaining why they deserve to be in the co-host's chair next to Ripa, who's still solo on the show since Michael Strahan's departure last season.
Kelly Ripa asking for fans to submit videos to host liv
Kelly Ripa asking for fans to submit videos to host liv
Considering all the drama that's been surrounding the show and it's ongoing search for a permanent co-host, we expected something a little more exciting from this "huge" announcement that was teased throughout Wednesday's episode.
Regardless, we're still waiting to find out who's going to fill that co-host seat permanently. Clearly, since this contest is running through the end of September, it'll still be a while before ABC names someone to replace Strahan.
Meanwhile, Strahan made his big debut at his new hosting gig on Good Morning America this week. "Of course you get nervous, and I've done this for four years, so this is a moment that I didn't anticipate being here at this point, but it's here, and we're going to enjoy it," Strahan said, adding that he was staying on ABC. "I'm not dying! I'm still in the family! And I'm still available to come back if I'm ever called to co-host, so I'm not going anywhere. I'm not gone."
The no make-up movement is gaining traction, and celebs like Nicole Richie and most notably Alicia Keys are leading the charge. While this is an inspiring movement for us to not put so much emphasis on looks, it might not exactly make sense for the women who aren't celebrities. Hear me out: For the average person who do not have celebrity status, the research I found suggests that looks do, unfortunately, matter when it comes to job hunting and salary.
While it would be awesome if everyone could not be judged by our appearance, it's a lofty goal, and the everyday reality of having a job and making money is a stiff competitor. There are several studies that suggest the way you look has a big impact on your salary. One suggests that women who wear makeup earn as much as 20 percent more than women who don't wear makeup. Pretty disappointing to read. Another found that blondes could see up to a 7 percent boost in pay.
However, there is research that argues it might not be such a big deal: “Although subjects in these studies ascribed more favorable personality traits and more successful life outcomes to attractive than unattractive targets, the average magnitude of this beauty-is-good effect was moderate, and the strength of the effect varied considerably from study to study."
What does this all mean in terms of physical looks and finding a job, getting a high salary, and maybe even finding a date or relationship? It means that the jury is still out on whether we can forgo our beauty routines without societal repercussions. Still, I believe there are important things you can do to succeed beyond appearance. For example, focus on self-confidence and self-worth. Focus on what is good about you on the inside and be kind to others. Value your skills and education; be proud of your work experience or school work. Trust in yourself that you are valuable not for what you look like or how much makeup you wear. But, if you want to wear make-up or a polished outfit to a job interview, that’s OK too. Let’s work to not judge ourselves or others.
“Why do you have a different last name than us?” my eldest daughter asked after a writing lesson on surnames. She had written everyone else’s name in our family, then paused at mine.
“What’s your last name again?” she asked, tapping her pencil on her speckled notebook. I told her, though she knew. She started writing, then paused again.
“You just don’t like our name, do you?” It felt like an accusation.
“Oh, I… uh… no, no, no, it’s not that…” I fumbled. “I just have a different last name because…”
I drew a blank. When I got married at 23, my decision to keep my maiden name was never really an intentional one. Like most very important, life-changing, big things in my life done in my early 20s, it kind of just happened because I hadn’t really planned for anything else.
Back then, I knew the history of why women, centuries ago, started giving up their last names with marriage, it mostly having to do with women being seen as property of their husbands. But it was the 21st century when I married. So surely women were no longer seen that way. And surely, I thought then, keeping your maiden name is a choice that every modern woman can make without consequence, right?
Wrong. Ten years in at keeping my maiden name, I get that there are consequences. Even with more women opting to keep their names, there remains in our society an often unstated judgment that I and women like me are not fully part of our families. There’s an assumption that women should want to change their last name, if not with marriage, then certainly with children. The assumption goes something like, “it’s a small sacrifice to make for women who love their families.” Or, “it’s the proper way to start a family.” No one’s ever told me these things. But I hear them whenever someone calls me by my husband’s name or asks why I have a different name or whether I’m unmarried.
Sometimes I think that changing my name would make that part of my life easier. The receptionists at their doctor and dentist appointments wouldn’t always ask about my relationship to my children and husband. We’d all have the same family name, a name I could make into a DIY wooden sign to go above our fireplace.
And it would end those questions from my children. But I can’t change my name. Kind of like that T-shirt in my dresser from that one musical I did in college. The longer I keep it, the less likely it becomes that I’ll ever give it away. They have a story now, that T-shirt and my name. I wouldn’t be giving up anything significant if I gave up the shirt. But with my name, I would.
I always thought my last name said nothing about me. It’s so blah and conservative-sounding and two-syllable-y. “Hinton” doesn’t belong on an album cover or written with a Sharpie on someone’s bra. But it’s my last name. It says everything about me. Aside from being the name I signed all my Dr. Seuss books with as a kid, it reminds me of where I come from. It reminds me of my family, their story and, often, my dad. He died a year before I gave birth to my first daughter. So in many ways my name connects me, at least in my head, to him.
I often think if I changed my name, I would lose some of that. Or that somehow I’d be changing a meaningful part of myself. Sure, the details of my history wouldn’t change. But I would. "Hinton" would become my life before kids, and its replacement would be my life after. This could work. But I imagine I would hate the mental discontinuity and the idea that I’ve lost this wonderful thing that should be attached to my first name. I keep my maiden name because of all that.
One night, when a conversation with my 4-year-old went from talk of death to my last name, I told her “all that.” In response, she and her older sister looked at me like I had two heads. I don’t think they’re old enough to get it.
But I think one day, when they are old enough to consider marriage and wonder what to do with their last name, they will. One day, when that time comes, they’ll consider their options and, hopefully, do what feels right to them.
For now, this feels right to me. And that is enough.
Amy King (formerly Duggar) and her husband of a year, Dillon King, are the newest Duggar duo to admit they are thinking about their future family.
"Our first year has been really fun. Our goals for next year are to travel the world and fall further in love with each other! Who knows? There might even be some baby talk," Amy revealed to People.
She's in good company.
Jessa, Jill and Jinger Duggar also already have baby rumors abounding.
Jill even admitted on Counting On that the baby question is getting out of control and she's feeling the pressure to have baby No. 2. Not that she isn't looking forward to expanding her family. Jill and her husband Derick Dillard admitted that getting pregnant again was one of their goals in the upcoming year.
Meanwhile, Jessa is well into her second pregnancy already. She even teased during last night's Counting On that she and husband Ben Seewald may be expecting twins, "Double the work, double the diapers. We're looking forward to whatever's next."
Then there's Jinger, who isn't even married yet, but is already facing the baby speculation. A new rumor is suggesting she's already pregnant with Jeremy Vuolo's baby, but let's all take that one with a grain of salt. Just because Jinger isn't strictly following all the courting rules, doesn't mean she's going crazy.
If you're ever in New York City, you have to make a point of walking into The Plaza Hotel — doesn't matter if you're not staying there, just walk right in — and having tea or drinks at The Palm Court or one of its other lovely bars or restaurants. I was lured in for a Nolet's gin tasting and didn't want to leave.
Here's the thing about New York bars: They're so noisy. And if it's a good bar, it's impossible to get in. And if you get in, you can't get the bartender's attention. And once you get your drink, you can't hear well enough to have a decent conversation.
What New Yorkers often forget is that we have all these gorgeous, historic, jewel-box hotel bars that we've gone and left to the tourists — and they're actually quiet. My all-time favorite Manhattan bar is in a Midtown hotel, and I'll never reveal it, because I want it all to myself.
I digress. This is actually about the gin and Champagne cocktail I had at The Plaza, which was made with jasmine tea and lemongrass-infused sugar. You could make this yourself. I like to think it was named after Zelda Fitzgerald, but I couldn't get the bartender to confirm that. Anyway, enjoy.
In a shaker, combine the gin, tea and sugar. Add ice cubes, and shake well.
Pour into the glass, and top with Champagne. Garnish with the lemon peel.
Note: To make lemongrass-infused sugar, immerse 1 stalk of lemongrass in an airtight container of white sugar. Let sit in a cool, dry place undisturbed for a week or more, until the sugar takes on the aroma of the lemongrass.
If you don't think you are familiar with Dick Wolf's work, you're wrong. He's the mastermind behind the Law & Order franchise, as well as Chicago P.D., Chicago Med, Chicago Justice and Chicago Fire.
Suffice it to say, Wolf has a knack for procedural drama. But now, Wolf is stepping into the world of a whole different kind of drama — we're talking the popstar boy band variety.
That's right, Wolf and his wife, Noelle Wolf, are helming a new scripted show on NBC titled Boys, which was inspired by Zayn Malik's former life in One Direction, and will actually star Malik, according to Variety.
"We were intrigued by the synergistic potential that Zayn brings to the project. Boys will be a show that’s totally integrated on broadcast and digital platforms. Casting and original music will be major components, giving the show promotional potential on multiple levels," Noelle told Variety.
That sounds like a lot of industry mumbo jumbo, but the series will follow all the ups and down that come with being in a mega pop group, so we're all in on that. It also seems like it might churn out some cool music, and you can't beat that with a stick.
Casting Malik headlining the show is actually a genius move, if you think about it. He's an expert on boy band drama, what with the whole One Direction breakup debacle and all.
Obviously, NBC agrees.
"Zayn certainly brings an authentic point of view to this world where kids are catapulted into fame at a dizzying speed," Jennifer Salke, president of NBC Entertainment, said to Variety. "On top of our excitement around the creative ideas being discussed, we have a lot of respect for the musical and digital ambitions behind the project."
The Wolfs are inspired, the network is totally into it, and both Law & Order fans and One Directioners alike are undoubtedly psyched, but there's just one surprising person who seems a little ho-hum about the deal: Malik, himself.
"It’s exciting to be diving into this project with such passionate and prolific producers," has been the only statement about the project from Malik so far. No tweets, no Instagram posts, no crazy Snapchat announcements. Zilch.
Zayn, get stoked, bro. This is huge.
Will you tune in for the Wolf/Malik collaboration on NBC?
File this one under celeb couple we never, ever saw coming: Gwen Stefani's ex, Gavin Rossdale, is reportedly now dating Tiger Woods' ex, Elin Nordegren.
According to an Us Magazine source, Nordegren and Rossdale hit the town together in Los Angeles over the Labor Day weekend after being set up by mutual friends. Although the pairing is totally coming out of left field, it doesn't really seem that far-fetched. They have plenty to bond over — they both went through earth-shattering, extremely high-profile divorces, for example. Plus, he's a total babe, she's a babe — why wouldn't they date?
But before we sound the alarms, though they reportedly had an amazing time together, apparently this was only a first date, so there's no full-on couple status here yet. However, they did enjoy each other's company so much that it sounds like they've already discussed plans on how to make a bicoastal, long-distance relationship successful, since Rossdale lives in Los Angeles and Nordegren is based out of Florida.
"Elin flies to L.A. on her private plane a lot," Us' source said. "They want to make it work."
It's also entirely possible that this new info is an unfounded rumor, but Rossdale did post a rather cryptically romantic tweet on Wednesday.
Gavin Rossdale tweet
Gavin Rossdale tweet
Sure seems like Rossdale's got love on the brain after his hot date.
One person who's probably not giving a second thought to the new possible Rossdale/Nordegren match-up? Stefani. No, she's too busy basking in the glory of her relationship with The Voice costar, Blake Shelton and coming up with ideas about how to decorate their reported new Oklahoma compound. That, and it's also rumored that wedding bells will soon be ringing for them as well, so someone might be way too busy planning a wedding to worry about who her ex is dating.
Keeping secrets from your loved ones is not usually the best thing to do during a crisis, but Manzo'd With Children's Caroline Manzo just perfectly explained the exception to this rule.
As you probably remember from the gut-wrenching Manzo'd With Children Season 3 trailer that hit the internet over the summer, Manzo recently found a lump in her breast and was left do deal with the excruciating fear of what the future might hold for health.
"I'm the strongest person you'll ever meet when I'm battling for somebody else, but when it's me, oh my god," she said in the season preview.
Fans of the Real Housewives franchise are well aware that Manzo will go to battle and lay down her life for her family, and her values held true during her health crisis. In fact, Manzo made the difficult decision to withhold information about her health from her children for their benefit.
"I hid it from them for about a month and a half," Manzo revealed in an interview with Access Hollywood this week. "They didn't know a thing, because I didn't want to scare them and I didn't want to give them false hope or anything like that. So I wanted to know that I was OK."
That's one thoughtful mama. And Manzo may be a reigning queen of reality TV, but she would never, ever put the show above her family.
"I talked to producers about it, I said, 'Until I know one way or another definitively, I'm not gonna do this to them,'" she said. "I would never do that to them on camera. I just wouldn't. It's not a thing to do."
Thank goodness Manzo didn't ever have to have that horrible conversation with her kids, because it turns out everything was OK, just like she wanted.
"Thank you, God, I'm fine," she said during her Access Hollywood appearance. "It was a scare... this turned out to be an infection... and for three months we didn't know what it was."
We're so sorry that Manzo had to go through that trying time, but very glad that she is OK.
