Well here's a huge surprise: Laura Prepon and Ben Foster are engaged.

More: Laura Prepon thanks Scientology for a surprising health benefit

The two made their red carpet debut as a couple at the premiere for The Girl on the Train, and Prepon was wearing one big, sparkly diamond ring on a certain finger. But if you weren't even aware that the two were dating, you're not alone.

They've been kind of rumored to be a couple ever since they were seen hanging out together in New York City back in July. But they've been buds since they were 18 — Foster is good friends with Prepon's That '70s Show co-star Danny Masterson — so while there was plenty of speculation, they were never confirmed to be in a relationship. Plus, there was the added drama of Foster being in a long on-again, off-again engagement with Robin Wright.

But now, we apparently have our answer. The two are headed down the aisle — a source confirmed to People magazine that the engagement is legit.

More: 5 reasons we think Tom Cruise denies dating Laura Prepon

So here's where some new speculation begins. What will their wedding look like? It's no secret that Prepon is a big name in the church of Scientology. Foster's involvement in the church (or lack thereof) is a little murkier. He has plenty of ties to Scientologists (like Masterson and his family), but he's never confirmed or denied whether he's a member of the church himself.

If Prepon and Foster do decide on a Scientologist wedding, it could get weird. The Church of Scientology offers five different kinds of ceremonies, ranging from pretty typical Western weddings to "traditional" weddings that are full of '50s-inspired gender roles — that one also includes a bizarre vow that the husband must buy a cat for his wife if she wants one.

While there's not a lot of information publicly available about Scientologist weddings — the church is notorious for being secretive around outsiders — it does sound like there's a big focus on the fact that the wife will get old and lose her looks, so the hubby better be prepared for that. It's maybe a little odd, but practical?

More: INTERVIEW: Laura Prepon shoots down Tom Cruise rumors

What do you think Laura Prepon and Ben Foster's wedding will look like?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

I can't actually recall my first migraine. Now, as a 34 year old woman, I can't remember a time without them. I always had headaches as a child and into my teenage years, but as I got a bit older the headaches started to take on a different form. They were stronger, more painful, and carried other horrendous side effects like nausea and sensitivity to sound and light, and were incredibly debilitating.

More: I air my dirty laundry on the internet because no one is perfect

Migraine

A neurologist diagnosed me with migraine when I was around 18 years old and since then I've tried pretty much everything under the sun to combat the crippling headaches that have negatively affected – and oftentimes even ruined – my life. Medications (the prescription and over-the-counter variety), homeopathic treatments, chiropractor visits, acupuncture, biofeedback, strict diets and Botox. Yep – that Botox. After each new treatment I get plagued with questions of, "Did it work?!"

And that's a complicated question to answer. There really is no "cure" for migraine, only treatments. You can get some relief, you may see a decrease in the intensity or frequency of the headaches, but for me? Nothing has successfully gotten rid of them. It's a condition I have lived with for years, and one that I've accepted may stick around for many more.

More than 38 million people in the U.S. currently suffer from migraine? That's a lot of people – around 12 percent of the population. But what about the 88 percent that doesn't suffer from this condition? What do migraine sufferers like me want them to know?

More: How I learned to manage my chronic back pain with exercise

Yes, I'm sure I look fine

Migraine is an "invisible" disease, and a majority of the time we have no symptoms people can see or hear. I've been at work or with friends when the intense pain strikes and have been told, "Oh no, you have a migraine? But you look fine!" Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean we aren't suffering.

No, I really don't want a drink

Migraine sufferers have certain triggers: behaviors, foods/drinks, specific types of weather, smells – you name it – that may cause a migraine to develop. For me, alcohol is a big one and the reason I don't drink very much. If I feel a headache coming on, I won't have a sip of alcohol. I know my body, and something as minor as one beer or even a half of a cocktail may result in a very bad situation for me later on. Please don't pressure us!

It's not an excuse

Sadly, I've had to miss many events, gatherings, work days and other get togethers because of my condition. I recently had to cancel a flight to Charleston, SC, and miss an entire day of a pre-planned trip with my girlfriends because I was in the hospital with a terrible migraine. When the pain strikes, sometimes you can use an abortive medication to stop it dead in its tracks, but other times you're not so lucky. Migraine sufferers usually need to lay down in a dark, quiet room to find any semblance of relief, and we would hate to think anyone is accusing us of using our condition to "get out of things." Trust me, we'd rather be anywhere but in this situation.

It's more than just a headache

Migraines may be a severe type of headache, but make no mistake: they are not the same thing. I get headaches – I know headaches. Sure, they're annoying, distracting and even painful, but one thing they aren't is a migraine. I've had people compare the two ("You had a migraine last night too? I had a headache – think it was the rain!") and they are not even on the same playing field. Migraines often come with an arsenal of other serious symptoms (not to mention the severe head pain that can last several hours) and regular old pain relievers from the drug store aren't going to do the trick. When I suffer through a terrible migraine episode and someone later refers to it as a "headache," I get pretty offended by that.

Chronic migraine is not an easy condition to live with, and sufferers like me often feel isolated and as though no one truly understands what we go through. So many of us plan our lives around our condition – worrying about a migraine attack coming, trying to prevent one from coming, and fighting hard to get rid of one if it does. It's a constant battle that requires making certain lifestyle choices that others may not understand.

More: Chronic pain means I won't be able to keep up my running habit forever

Jana Kramer is finally opening up about her tumultuous first marriage that almost cost her her life.

More: Jana Kramer's advice to ex Mike Caussin: Think before you cheat next time

Kramer has been silent for years about her first marriage to Michael Gambino, a man 17 years older than her, whom she married on a whim after two weeks of dating.

"I met Mike when I was 19 at a Coffee Bean in L.A. He was a smooth talker, very charming, intriguing and obviously older," Kramer told People magazine. "At the time, I liked that. I felt protected."

But soon after their impromptu wedding, Gambino got violent.

"He’d come home at 3 o’clock in the morning and pick me up out of bed, throw me onto the ground and start yelling and hitting," Kramer explained. "Then the next morning he’d be like, 'Hey, baby,' as if nothing had happened."

More: Is Scott Eastwood dating Jana Kramer?

For more than a year, Kramer hid her abuse from family and friends, covering her bruises with makeup. When she tried to leave Gambino, he manipulated her into staying in the marriage.

"When I said, 'I can't do this anymore,' he sent me a photo of my dogs on the freeway and said, 'I'm going to let them go if you don't come home,'" she said. "He'd kick me out of the house, I'd sleep in the car, and then that next morning, I'd be with him in bed again. My self-confidence went down each time he was abusive."

Finally Gambino was arrested after he choked Kramer and left her unconscious and bleeding outside their home. She says she still has scars from that night. Gambino was convicted of attempted murder and committed suicide two years after being released from his six-year prison sentence.

Kramer said she's speaking out now in the hope that other women will learn from her story.

"I'm so embarrassed and afraid no one will love me because of my past, but I'm ready to put it out there now," she said. "If I can help one person, I’ll be thankful for what happened — and I can move forward."

More: Jana Kramer's split news has us turning up 'I Got the Boy' and legit crying

Shots are every kid's worst nightmare, but for the past decade, parents have gotten a brief reprieve from making kids brave the needle in order to get a flu vaccine. The nasal flu vaccination, FluMist, supposedly offered kids all the protection of the shot with no pricks, muscle pains or crying. Unfortunately, those magical, needle-free days are over.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently put out a call to pediatricians to stop using FluMist after a federal health committee found the mist is not as effective at preventing people from getting the flu. According to the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the nasal vaccines' effectiveness was about 3 percent last year among kids ages 2 to 17. Meanwhile, injected vaccines had a 63 percent rate of effectiveness. You don't have to be an expert to see that's a pretty huge difference.

More: Moms get brutally real about the most savage things they've told their kids

Flu season can start as early as October, and around 20,000 children are hospitalized each year due to flu complications, so making sure your kids are vaccinated is extremely important. Obviously, most kids aren't about to calmly stroll into the doctor's office and roll up their sleeves. That's why we asked parents to give us their best tips and tricks for surviving the shot experience.

Here are their clever and creative ideas:

"My son is 7, and we just had the flu shot. I got my shot first, and let him hold my hand. He saw how fast it was. The nurse also offered him some cold numbing spray, which helped, and she was incredibly efficient. I told him how brave he was and promised McDonald's afterward." — Kristen S.

"Letting my 3-year-old twins 'practice' giving me shots with their toy doctor kit really helped them know what to expect before getting their flu shots. They still didn't love the pinch, but knowing the process helped them stay calm and we got through it with no tears!" — Megan Z.

More: The internet is freaking out over this mom's hospital bill for the wrong reason

"I'm not above massive amounts of bribery with my 11-year-old daughter. If this shot will keep her alive, I figure it's worth all the ice cream in the world." — Jeanne S.

"I distract them with silliness while it happens, so they are looking at me and trying not to laugh at how crazy their mother is on their right-hand side while the nurse gives them their shots on the left-hand side." — Kim B.

"My daughter used to wear earbuds playing her favorite song and sing or scream as loudly as she possibly could when it was time for the shot, which was hilarious. Now she's in college and goes to get her flu shot all on her own! Pretty sure she still wears the earbuds, but she's grown out of the sing/scream thing." — Michelle N.

"I made a 'prize' bag for each of my kids with a few new, cheap toys in it. My 4-year-old and 5-year-old were more focused on what they'd find in the prize bag than on the actual shot. My youngest still cried for a minute, but not as long as last year when I had nothing." — Melissa F.

More: Attention new parents: FDA says to beware of these teething remedies

"Bubbles! The pediatrician we had when my twins were very little had bubbles in his office. We would blow bubbles for them. Then, when they got a little older, we'd have them try and blow the bubbles. It's an excellent distraction." — Denise F.

"Call them mosquito bites. That's what we do in the medical office where I work. Then we give them a little reward for their bravery." — Mandy M.

"When my daughter got her 5-year-old shots, I made the mistake of being honest about it. As the nurse left the room, my daughter asked where she was going. I replied, "She's bringing back your shots, sweetness." Cue the sobs and 18 stages of grief ranging from denial to rage to belligerence. Finally, I changed my approach and started talking about her upcoming birthday and the kinds of gifts she hoped to receive and all the friends she hoped could attend. My mind kept whirring from one detail to another while I thought OMG THIS IS WORKING. So, long story short: Lie and then distract. Also, drink coffee before the appointment." — Maureen W.

I was dating someone recently. Now I'm not.

More: Porn has been warping my perspective on what satisfying sex looks like

I'm sad but not as sad as I could be. I'm used to it by now. I’ve spent the majority of my life sleeping alone, sprawling out, taking up the whole bed when I'd be content to take up just half. Truthfully, I'd love to battle for the blanket and worry about morning breath.

I've been the single friend for as long as I can remember. While most of my friends are married and having kids, I'm the queen of short-term relationships. Three weeks here, two months there. Each time I feel hopeful that maybe, just maybe, this one will last longer than three months. No one ever has.

Occasionally, I have nightmares. The kind that wake you up in the middle of the night, breathless and scared out of your mind. On those nights I wish I could turn to someone beside me, grab their hand, and feel safe from the terrors created by my overactive imagination. But there's rarely ever anyone there. So I sleep with the lights on.

I could be cynical and sad. I could be worried that I'm going to wind up alone and single forever. I could wallow in despair that no suitor will send me flowers just because or say "I love you" and mean it.

But I'm not cynical or hopeless. Not even a little. Because I still believe that there's someone out there waiting for me. Despite a rocky and turbulent start, I'm still a romantic.

I read a Post Secret once that said, "He hasn't found me yet either." It became more than just a phrase scribbled on the internet, it became an anchor. After every failed short-term relationship, I'd pick myself up, dust myself off and remind myself that he wasn't my person. My person is still out there.

I find it reassuring to know that he is probably alive, living a life that runs parallel to mine. He's breathing the same air, staring at the same moon. Our lives haven't intersected yet but they're both there. Perhaps he's watching the same presidential debates and buying the same pumpkin pancake mix at Trader Joe's. He has friends and family. He gets up and goes to bed and he hasn't found me yet either.

Sometimes before I go to bed, I say "goodnight" to him, whoever he is.

I wonder, if somewhere in Malaysia, an unknown man hears a hint of a whisper that he doesn't understand. Or maybe he's sitting at a bar three blocks down. Closer than I think. Sooner than I expect. Maybe in California, my person is cuddling with someone else he was meant to find before me. When he comes my way, I won't be jealous of her because she helped him become who he needed to be. Maybe she'll break his heart but I hope not. Perhaps he's tucking in kids that aren't mine but might love me too some day.

More: I fell into the world of tickling fetishes and secretly loved it

I like to pretend that when I say goodnight, somehow he's getting the message. Maybe when we meet he'll say, "I know it sounds crazy, but there were nights when I didn't feel so alone." Maybe not. He might be the sensible kind who will humor me but doesn't believe in fate or anything of the sort. I don't know, but I get excited thinking about it.

I officiated a wedding last weekend. I was writing the ceremony right when my six week relationship started falling apart. I knew that there were things I was never going to learn about the boy I had been dating. There were things we were never going to say or feel together. Places we were never going to visit. Our story was over. Not exactly the best inspiration for a wedding ceremony. So I switched my thoughts to the man I haven't met yet somewhere in Malaysia or California. I thought about what I'd say to him at our wedding.

"I've been waiting for you my whole life," I'll say. Then I'll probably cry because it's true and I'm an emotional person.

"I didn't know it, but I've been waiting for you too," he'll respond.

Maybe I'm delusional, a byproduct of a childhood that involved too many romantic comedies. I've read too many books by Nicholas Sparks. But I'll tell you what, when I saw the couple exchange their first dance at the wedding, I was reminded that people find other people. People who make them happier and better. That's something that happens. And it can happen for me too.

Whether it's next month, next year, or 50 years from now, when we're meant to meet, we'll meet.

Until then, I'm going to keep going on first dates and hoping they turn in to second dates. I'm going to keep writing and living and feeling. I'll third wheel all of my friend's dinner plans because I love the company. I'll go for walks and read books. I'll work on making myself kinder and better before he comes along.

Who knows, maybe I'll even spend the weekend making pumpkin pancakes from Trader Joe's before heading to that bar down the street. If he's not there, I'll go home, lay in my bed and whisper "goodnight."

More: My first marriage was a disaster and I'm grateful for that

Chrissy Teigen has the best Twitter feed on the internet. Fact. But from now on, only those hand-picked by Teigen herself will benefit from her tweets of wisdom. Yes, the unthinkable is true. Teigen has gone dark.

More: Chrissy Teigen has learned the single most frustrating thing about babies

From frank opinions on reality TV to digs at Donald Trump, confessing her love for junk food to admitting to being so lazy she called reception to find out her hotel room number, Teigen's Twitter feed was always frank, funny and completely unapologetic. Even her husband John Legend described her as "literally the best person to follow on Twitter." Plus, she called out Piers Morgan for being an "unequivocal douche."

According to newspaper reports, before making her account private, Teigen confessed (in a private tweet), that she was "not strong enough anymore" to handle the public Twittersphere. "It's not haters or trolls or generally mean people," Daily Mail reported her as saying. "I just feel like I am absorbing bad shit 24/7. My body and mind cannot handle it anymore."

More: It turns out social media is actually really good for kids

Teigen, this is why we need you back. You gave us the good shit to counteract all the bad. And if there's one group of people who need you the most, it's moms.

Teigen gave birth to her first child, daughter Luna, in April and since then she's been a source of comfort and light relief for many a fellow new mom.

She's opened her heart about motherhood, and was never scared to approach the grody, stinky, embarrassing aspects of motherhood we struggle to bring up in normal conversation. She revealed her shock at having to go home from the hospital in diapers. She bought herself a perineal irrigation bottle as a push present. She shared her anguish over her sleep-fighting newborn. She challenged the haters who criticized her for going out for dinner a week after her daughter was born.

Teigen, please come back. We really, really miss your good shit.

More: The annual Girlguiding Attitudes Survey is difficult reading for any mum

For now, at least her Instagram account is still public.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

One of the biggest fall holidays comes just a few days after Halloween, and it's celebrated across the United States, Mexico and Latin America. Día de los Muertos, observed on Nov. 2 and better-known as the Day of the Dead, is a time to honor loved ones who have passed. Food is a staple at any Day of the Dead gathering, which is why we've put together a full collection of our favorite traditional and modern recipes just in time for the big day.

Nov. 2, also known as All Souls' Day, is when those of Mexican and Latin American descent celebrate the Day of the Dead. Unlike the American holiday of Halloween, this 3,000-year-old Aztec ritual is a way to celebrate and remember those special loved ones who have left this Earth. During this holiday, souls are welcomed to visit the families they left behind, while during Halloween, masks and scary costumes are worn to ward off evil spirits. Colorful altars are decorated with fresh flowers and bright tapestries as well as a feast of traditional foods. Here are some typical (and more modernized) dishes you might see at a Día de los Muertos celebration.

1. Marigold-infused tequila

Marigolds are said to lead the souls of the dead to their graves, and this marigold-infused tequila is a great drink to celebrate with on this day.

More: Let's pretend tequila is the new green juice

2. The Weeping Woman martini

Also known in Spanish as "la Llorona," a Mexican folktale used as a bedtime story for children, is inspired by the Day of the Dead celebrations.

3. Café de olla atole

"Atole," a corn-based drink, is usually drunk during this holiday. We're loving the addition of coffee in this café de olla atole.

4. Mexican hot chocolate

Mexican hot chocolate, also known as "champurrado," is famous for its thick consistency thanks to Mexican chocolate and "piloncillo" sugar, or really dark brown cane sugar.

5. Ecuadorian spiced purple corn fruit drink

Also known as "colada morada," this corn-based drink is sweetened with the addition of fresh berries.

More: 21 ways to love Mexican food that have nothing to do with tacos

6. Atole de vainilla

Another version of "atole," the corn-based drink, is this atole de vainilla that is brightened up with the inclusion of Mexican vanilla beans — some of the best vanilla in the world.

7. Marigold muerte drink

You can purchase dried or fresh marigold at your local flower shop to make this marigold muerte drink to celebrate your loved ones.

8. Ecuadorian bread figures

In Spanish, these are called "guaguas de pan" and are traditional in Ecuador during the Day of the Dead celebrations.

Next up: DIY sugar skull cake pops

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9. DIY sugar skull cake pops

Taking the classic and traditional sugar skulls, these sugar skull cake pops are a modern twist and fun way of presenting skulls to young ones in the family.

10. Día de los Muertos empanadas

Make these Día de los Muertos empanadas in specialty skull molds that can easily be found online, and stuff them with traditional ingredients like cotija cheese.

More: 19 Mexican slow cooker recipes that will add flavor to dinner tonight

11. Mexican pig-shaped cookies

Also known in Spanish as "marranitos," gingerbread pigs are a delightful treat to sweeten the celebrations with on this special holiday.

12. Día de los Muertos skull chocolate cake

Slice into this skull chocolate cake, and explain how you're celebrating your loved ones, guiding them and sharing great stories from when they were alive.

13. Marigold-pressed tortillas

How gorgeous are these tortillas de cempazuchitl? Pressed marigold petals adorn these tortillas, making them sometimes too gorgeous to eat.

14. Día de los Muertos gelatina cake

Día de los Muertos gelatina cake — or gelatin cake — is a colorful addition to your Day of the Dead altar.

15. Candied pumpkin or squash

Also known in Spanish as "calabaza en tacha," it's the perfect side dish to include in your celebration.

16. Sugar skulls

Make these traditional sugar skulls with your children, and introduce them to what the Day of the Dead is all about.

Originally published October 2014. Updated October 2016.

Johnny Depp just put his sprawling Los Angeles penthouse on the market, giving riffraff like us an opportunity to take a look inside the home of one of Hollywood's most celebrated talents.

Let's get the ugly reality out of the way first. Yes, this is the penthouse where the infamous fight between Depp and his ex-wife Amber Heard allegedly went down. So it's easy to see why Depp is eager to move on. But one look through the property gives you the idea this was a place he loved.

The penthouse is in one of LA's famed art deco treasures, the Eastern Columbia Building, which sits right in the heart of historic downtown Los Angeles. According to the listing for the penthouse, Depp acquired his first unit in the building more than a decade ago, but kept snapping up additional units as they became available.

More: How to clean your jewelry so it sparkles even longer

The result is a sprawling five-unit penthouse with character and architectural design for days, not to mention some of the best views of the City of Angels imaginable.

The property is on the market for $12,780,000, but the individual penthouses can also be purchased on their own.

More: 20 jack-o'-lantern FAILS that will make you scream... with laughter

The tour of the house gives you exactly what you might expect from Depp. It's eclectic and kooky, but also beautiful and full of rich character and quality. It's a work of art all its own.

In the video tour provided by the realtors, you can see the penthouse is the result of joining up several units. There are very distinct feels between the units, and I think I counted at least three kitchens.

More: Haunting decorations for the Tim Burton-themed Halloween party of your nightmares

But there are so many beautiful things to look at, it hardly seems like you'd be bothered by it.

There's gorgeous art throughout, including a huge mural on a dining room wall that looks like it had to have been painted by someone noteworthy. If those richly colored walls could talk, could you imagine the bold-named gossip they could dish? For days.

The above mural is by Brazilian street art team OSGEMEOS and sadly, it does not come with the penthouse.

Of course, there's also a rooftop pool and cabana area fit for Hollywood royalty.

Take a look at the video tour. It's pretty amazing.

Dear readers: Oct. 6 is National Noodle Day, and for the life of us, we cannot fathom why it's not a bigger deal. I mean, noodles? Noodles! When we stop pretending our favorite foods are chia pudding and spirulina smoothies and get real for once, it's hard to deny that we're all crazy about pasta. Whether it's spaghetti or pad Thai or ramen or what have you, it's all good.

More: 12 original ways to rock your ramen

So then, why aren't there more restaurants celebrating Noodle Day with fantastic offers? Looks like it's just us noodle lovers and the chain, Noodles & Company. So here's their deal.

Show up at Noodles & Company on Thursday, Oct. 6 and get a free small Wisconsin mac and cheese when you purchase a regular entrée. They'll also throw in a buy-one-get-one coupon for the grown-up versions of their mac and cheese dishes, which hit restaurants on Oct. 12.

More: 21 drool-worthy ways to reimagine mac and cheese

If you're not near a Noodles, but still want in on the pasta action, why not try one of these international noodle recipes. Let the carb-loading begin!

More: 21 noodle dishes that say comfort food in every language: International noodle recipes

 1. The hand-heart over the belly. This is truly a time to commemorate because not only are you newly pregnant — yay! — you’re also as skinny as you will probably ever be now that you’re pregnant. This is absolutely a moment to capture.

2. The glamour shot pregnant lady. Even if this is not technically how you look, this is the vibe you’re giving — your hands lovingly cradle your full belly; you smile mysteriously; your hair is glossy with hormones and love; you’re glowing. Your friends all say, “OK, you are the cutest pregnant lady ever.” This is the photographic proof.

More: Everyday inspiration: Take a selfie

3. The exhausted-but-beatific new mama. OK, so. You aren’t wearing makeup; you haven’t thought about your hair in days; you are exhausted; your face is possibly dotted with burst capillaries, but it doesn’t matter because you just had a baby. This will be your most-liked photo on Facebook ever, and everyone will comment on how beautiful it is. Not necessarily you, but the photo itself.

4. The maternity leave photo. This is the first photo you allow on social media in which you look kind of bad — you haven’t slept in days; you don’t have time for makeup or showers; this weird double chin has started appearing in all your photos. But there is a cute and/or sleeping baby in the frame, so you are just keeping it 100. Your parent-friends will be like, “Been there! Enjoy it.”

5. The “this is how I look so deal with it” photo. This is the selfie you post when you realize you will probably always look this way, not much better and not much worse, so you do one of two things: You get in a cute retro-style swimsuit and use a fun saturated filter, or you put on a gorgeous flowing cleavage-revealing maxi dress and blow out your hair and take a photo of yourself at a fun party or a hotel rooftop bar.

6. The “my life right now” photo. From here on out, whether it’s your messy house or the awesome view from your Mexico resort patio, all your “selfies” will be the view of where you are sitting, but with a wine glass in the foreground.

More: You won't believe what this adorable husband did when his wife didn't want maternity pics

Creamy, custardy pumpkin pie is probably the best thing anyone has ever made with a vegetable. But what if I told you there's a way to make the hallmark of your Thanksgiving dessert spread even better than what you're used to?

The key lies in roasting your own pumpkin. Canned will do in a pinch, but freshly roasted pumpkin has a flavor and texture that just can't be compared with what you get at the store.

More: How to make a pumpkin pie inside a mini pumpkin

Why roast?

You technically can just boil or steam your pumpkin, but roasting is really the way to go. As it roasts, moisture evaporates, concentrating the pumpkin flavor. Plus the sugars in the pumpkin begin to caramelize, giving you an added depth of flavor you could never hope for with other methods.

Choose the right pumpkin

Sadly those ginormous pumpkins at the grocery store are not your ticket to a year's supply of cheap pumpkin purée. The variety of pumpkin we make jack-o'-lanterns from is too watery and stringy to make a nice, smooth pie, and they're pretty much flavorless.

Look for small baking varieties, often just called sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins. Some specific varieties that make for a delicious pumpkin purée include the following:

• Baby Pam
• New England pie
• Winter Luxury
• Long Island Cheese
• Kabocha squash, also known as Japanese pumpkin

One small pumpkin is the equivalent of about one 15-ounce can of pumpkin purée from the store.

Tools you will need

• Large, heavy-duty, sharp chef's knife. You don't want to try to cut into the thick skin and hard flesh of a pumpkin with a dull paring knife.
• Well-secured cutting board. Set it on top of a damp dish towel so it won't slip around the counter when you start chopping.
• Large spoon for scooping out seeds. An ice cream scoop works great.

More: Pumpkin pie cheese appetizers

Cleaning and roasting your pumpkin

1. Remove the stem, and cut your pumpkin in half from top to bottom.
2. Remove the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of the pumpkin. It helps if you start from the bottom of the pumpkin and work your way up. You may need to use your hands to get everything out.
3. Roast the pumpkin halves cut side down on a lightly oiled baking sheet at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes to an hour or until the pumpkin skin is wrinkled and easily pierced by a fork.
4. Let the pumpkin halves cool slightly, then peel the skin off the flesh (it should be quite easy at this point), or scoop the flesh from the skins.
5. Purée in your blender or food processor, and get ready to make some pie.

For your everyday pumpkin pie needs (not that I eat pumpkin pie every day...), canned will do. But for special occasions that call for the best, roasted pumpkin is the perfect way to up the ante on your pie game.

More: Pumpkin pie daiquiri lets you drink your fave fall treat through a straw

Simple and creative, a sign is the perfect way to add a touch of fall to your home! Whether you have a knack for crafting or prefer to buy the perfect piece of wall art, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing the right fall sign for you and your home. Fill your home with farmhouse-style fall quotes, colorful printables or a bold wood sign that makes a statement.

More: Gorgeous DIY wreaths to add the perfect touch of fall to your home

Get inspired to create your own festive sign or download the cutest fall printable by taking a look at these fall sign ideas rounded up by Porch.com.

Watercolor fall art

Transition your home for the fall season by decorating with these gorgeous watercolor printables that you can download instantly for free. Try framing them in plain white frames and placing them along your fireplace mantel or in your entryway.

Gather weathered wood sign

This handmade, weathered gray barn wood sign is just what your farmhouse-style home needs! Use it as inspiration for making your own DIY reclaimed wood sign or purchase it online to instantly and effortlessly add a rustic vibe to your home this fall.

Giant distressed fall sign

Go big this season by creating a large distressed sign that will greet guests with a warm, inviting feel. Follow this easy tutorial to DIY your own! Add a few pumpkins and festive blooms, and your fall front porch will be complete.

Autumn bucket list print

Don’t let the season slip by without checking your favorite fall activities off the list! This free printable in two different styles is a delightful reminder to drink apple cider, pick a pumpkin, and stay warm this fall.

More: 5 ways to give your stairway style a real step up

Fall harvest signs

Use up your old, chipped scrap wood pieces by repurposing them into cute fall harvest signs. DIY your own by following this step-by-step tutorial or purchase this fall sign to skip the crafting and go straight to decorating.

Apple chalkboard

Celebrate apple picking season with this adorable DIY apple chalkboard sign! With a wooden plaque, chalkboard paint, green felt and chalk, you can have this darling fall sign on your front steps within minutes.

Pumpkin spice print

As we fall into October, pumpkin spice latte season is in full force! Dress up your home for fall by displaying this cozy chalkboard art featuring colorful leaves and pumpkins illustrations.

More: 5 DIY ideas to create the perfect kitchen island for your space

As Florida and the Carolinas brace for Hurricane Matthew, we thought it might be wise to review the most important precautions your family can take in preparation for a storm. Knowing what to do well before the storm comes ashore can make a huge difference in your comfort, health, safety and even survival.

While the phrase "batten down the hatches" stems from 19th century sailors who had to prepare a ship when rough seas were ahead, it really isn't so far off the mark in modern times, especially when it comes to hurricanes.

Here are a few hurricane safety tips for securing your home from damaging storms.

1. Cover every window

Permanent storm shutters are ideal, but if you don't have them already installed on your home and cannot do so, you can use exterior-grade or marine plywood to board them up. According to Ready.gov, tape does not prevent windows from breaking.

2. Bring in the outside

Bring inside any of your property that cannot be tied down. This includes garbage cans, plants, furniture and yard decor. Anything that can be securely tied down, do it. Otherwise, bring it inside.

3. Trim trees and shrubs

Keeping landscaping properly trimmed can increase their wind resistance, which is definitely a very good thing.

More: Hurricane Katrina's youngest survivor wasn't even born when the storm hit

You should also stock up on your supplies and prepare for loss of electricity.

4. Install a generator

If you are able to, install a generator to provide temporary power.

5. Gather food and water

You should stockpile food and water to last at least three days. Water is the top priority, and a basic guideline is a gallon per person per day. Make sure you have canned or dry goods that do not require electricity to be prepared or refrigeration to be stored. Also keep a manual can opener on hand.

6. Keep your cellphones charged

Also have a battery-powered charger on hand for when they do eventually die. You don't want to risk going out to your car to use a car charger during a hurricane.

7. Get a battery-powered (or wind-up) radio

Access to a radio will help you keep up on the storm's progress and rapidly changing conditions.

More: Preparing a family disaster plan

You also need to take note of your surroundings.

8. Know the lay of your land

If your property is low-lying or prone to flooding, you'll have a better idea of when to evacuate if a storm surge or tidal flooding is predicted.

9. Take note of nearby levees and dams

These may pose a threat to you in the event of a hurricane.

10. Know your shelters

If you do have to evacuate, know in advance where the nearest high-ground shelter is, and have a plan to reach it. You can search American Red Cross shelters or search by your state and county for those nearby.

Even though hurricanes are scary, it can be a huge benefit to be prepared, to have a plan and to know where to go in the event that things go badly in a hurry. It can turn a frightening situation into an experience that may not be much of a good time, but less terrifying and dangerous than it could be.

If you were a fan of seeing Eleven rock the small screen on Stranger Things, bad news: Millie Bobby Brown's dad is making some huge mistakes with her career.

More: 27 moments in Stranger Things that gave us major '80s flashbacks

Robert Brown has reportedly been asking agencies for $100,000 up front if they want to represent Millie, who rocketed to stardom after her role on Stranger Things.

For those who don't know the entertainment industry, this is a huge no-no. Agencies don't pay their clients — the clients pay the agencies for finding them work, usually 10 percent of what they earn to start with. It's definitely not unheard of for actors to negotiate a lower percentage than that — huge stars like Brad Pitt or Tom Cruise are probably paying their agents less than 3 percent. But to demand payment from the agency for the privilege of representing an up-and-coming star? That's not going to fly.

More: Netflix has a lot of answering to do in Stranger Things Season 2

The Hollywood Reporter claims it has insiders from five different agencies who have confirmed that Robert Brown has asked for money up front from agencies who might be able to represent his daughter. Two sources have reportedly claimed he has asked for $100,000.

One agency spoke with the site and said Robert Brown's request was "completely unorthodox" and "would open a Pandora's box."

"We just would never go there," the source continued.

There's no doubt that 12-year-old Millie is one of Hollywood's hottest child stars right now. She's also insanely talented and destined for great things. That is, if her dad gets his shit together and stops making demands that could actually ruin her career just after it has started.

More: Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown & 8 other actresses who shaved their head for a role

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

There is a formula for viral mom content that we all know: A mom says something sassy about her kids and tells "hard truths," then there is the wine joke. This is Wine Mom. She's ubiquitous.

Wine Mom drinks from giant glasses of vino while surveying her messy house. Wine Mom laments the fact that there is no wine at soccer. Wine Mom imbibes while failing to match all the socks in the house. Oh, Wine Mom. She is droll, isn't she?

More: How the 'mommy needs wine' trend makes new motherhood harder for some

But Wine Mom is more than a person. Wine Mom is a meme. She is an identity. There are Facebook groups for Moms Who Need Wine, The Winey Moms, and Buzzfeed has their own Wine Mom who makes videos for them.

Writing in Tech Insider, Caitlin Moss notes, "Unlike their children, Facebook Wine Moms (baby boomers) are not in the mindset of developing or curating their internet personas. They are not self-conscious. They, unlike their kids, are not out to convince everyone their life is perfect through a series of carefully crafted filtered photos."

And if that's all Wine Moms were, I'd love them too. After all, who can object to a collective of really funny women sipping booze and telling men to shut up? But the Wine Mom is a carefully cultivated brand. She's a target market for viral content by sites like Viral Nova and Little Things. She is the shorthand for a cheap laugh in a world where we expect women to perform motherhood. After all, why is it so funny for a mom to drink wine or swear, something a lot of other humans do every day? It's because our cultural expectation of mothers is that they are saints or should at least die trying to become one. Wine Mom is supposed to be the opposite of that, but she isn't — she's not shocking or scandalous; she's not even telling hard truths. She's just a human who does dumb things like judge girls for wearing leggings or taking selfies and perpetuates other stereotypes about women. But she's being real, so LOL?

And when you think about it, who isn't a Wine Mom? Wine Mom is your inoffensive best friend. Republican? Democrat? No, Wine Mom drinks wine. She's not perfect, she's just you. She's real. Except she isn't. The Wine Mom is just a cheap way to force women into a cultural taxonomy while getting all the clicks.

Because Wine Mom still relies on the myth that being a mom is somehow the hardest task in the world and is the locus of a woman's identity. And actually, being a mom isn't the hardest task in the world nor should it be a woman's sole identity. Some aspects of motherhood are hard because there is no such thing as affordable child care or maternity leave, and we don't get paid and a lot of our husbands suck at basic tasks like wiping the counters and leave us with the physical and emotional burdens of managing the house. So, yes, it is hard, but it's not some feat of superhuman strength. I imagine brain surgery is harder. So many things are actually harder. But Wine Mom is a middle-class woman's persecution myth that revels in the fact that our lives are OMG so hard because our kids won’t shut up. Life, of course, is not a persecution Olympics and being a human can be plain hard sometimes. But the crass commercialization of the hard truths of motherhood reifies stifling stereotypes rather than smashing them.

More: Middle-aged mums are Britain's worst problem drinkers

In a review for the movie Bad Moms, Jane Marie explains, "Look, motherhood is hard. It is also the most basic-ass job on the planet that nearly half of all humans have managed to perform for the last 200,000 years. We are all just trying our best to keep these tiny parasites alive long enough for them to safely leave the host and hopefully not become someone like Peter Thiel. Being stereotypically perfect at that job is not a premise for a movie, it is boring as fuck."

I would also add that it's not a good premise for a meme.

If we are being refreshingly honest, most of the time, being a mom is actually my easiest relationship. It's cut-and-dried. Sometimes things get hard and we have Lunchables for dinner in front of the TV while I sip some whiskey. But why is that so shocking? It's just being a human. Our grandmothers were doing this with TV dinners and Johnny Carson long before the internet was invented. There is nothing inherently rebellious about leaving your house a mess, drinking wine at night or telling your kids to leave you alone. There is nothing inherently funny about buying a wall hanging that declares it "wine o'clock."

Yet, the Wine Mom is a constant reminder that we still live in a world where being a bad mom means doing something human like having an opinion. She's not real or refreshing, she's us and she's tired of performing.

But apparently, when it comes to being a mom, actually asserting your humanity is refreshing and real and worthy of all the LOLs. It's not and it shouldn't be. But perpetuating the meme perpetuates the idea that it is. When can we ever just be the shruggy mom? The one who doesn't even look at Pinterest or care that much about "being present"? The mom who thinks that actually things are fine and doesn't give a shit if teens wear leggings or take selfies.

It's time to kill the Wine Mom meme. Why not, instead, embrace the whiskey women? Or beer mom? Or French fry mom for our non-imbibing friends? Or maybe, we should stop creating taxonomies of women based on the status of their uterus. Now that would be real talk.

Tori Spelling is pregnant again!

More: Looks like Tori Spelling may have been lying about her financial situation, again

Her rep confirmed the happy news that Spelling is expecting her fifth child with hubby Dean McDermott. They're already parents to Liam, 9, Stella, 8, and Hattie and Finn, both 4.

After years of marital trouble and financial issues, this has to be happy news for the family. But the internet can't just be happy for Spelling and her exciting new baby news.

When Page Six tweeted an article about Spelling's pregnancy, the comments posted in reply were beyond harsh. Twitter users seemed to take recent news of more money troubles for Spelling and McDermott as an invitation to judge them for having another baby.

More: We're not really sure what it means, but Tori Spelling is engaged again

"Thought they could not afford the ones they have," one user wrote. Another chimed in, "could not afford to buy condoms. LOL."

Yeah, LOL. Super funny to make fun of complete strangers online for expecting a child, something that should be a happy event in their lives.

This is the second time Spelling and McDermott have made headlines this week. Previously they were ordered by a judge to pay nearly $50,000 to American Express, who sued Spelling for unpaid bills dating back to early 2015. The timing of that news and the pregnancy announcement probably have a lot to do with all the hate Spelling and McDermott are getting now.

More: Tori Spelling's financial situation just gets worse and worse

But still, trashing someone for having a baby is just rude. Don't you have better things to do today, internet? Leave these two to celebrate their happy news in peace.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

I believe children of dentists have more burdens to bear than children of any other type of doctor, because there's far more daily guilt that goes along with dental care. And what better time to have the relive that guilt than this month, which is National Dental Hygiene Month.

As a child of a dentist, I can assure you, that guilt never goes away, even after your dentist parent is retired. There are simply too many ways you can knowingly (and unknowingly) mess up your teeth. But it's not just about tooth care guilt. Here are 14 signs you were raised by a dentist parent that go way beyond sugar-free soda.

More: 10 signs you have an older sister in your life

1. You have a personal vendetta against flossing

You purposefully floss less now that you're an adult as a form of rebellion against all those years of surprise in-home floss inspections. However, the victorious feeling only lasts until your dentist parent sees the state of your gums at your annual checkup.

2. You've had more x-rays taken than all of your friends

You could easily make a giant, elaborate collage of all the x-ray photos of your molars alone. You also tend to glow a little at night from all the radiation (jk jk, but seriously, that's a lot of radiation exposure).

3. You've used the water jet dental tool as a squirt gun on the hygienists

Come on... They were probably having fun too.

4. When people find out your dad/mom's a dentist, they automatically ask you for dental advice

Last I checked, a dentistry degree was not genetically transferrable, but sure, you might want to get that greyish tooth checked out.

More: The Brawny man has been replaced (and it’s about time!)

5. ...Or an appointment with your dentist parent

Suddenly you're playing the role of busy receptionist. "The doctor is booked all through March, but would sometime in April work for you?"

6. And then of course there's the personal tooth scrutiny

People can't understand why you've had cavities filled if you're the child of a dentist.

7. You have a special relationship with Steve Martin in Little Shop of Horrors

And your dentist parent LOVES playing into that scary stereotype.

8. The thought of non-sugar-free gum makes your teeth hurt

That stuff was never allowed anywhere near your mouth when you were growing up, so now you have an inherent aversion to it.

9. But you still gamble on chewy snacks at the movies, like Starburst, Milk Duds, and gummy worms

After all, it feels really good to be bad sometimes.

10. Somehow you always forget your toothbrush when you travel.

Because of how many times you get free ones, you always expect them to appear when you need one.

11. You play the "which actor's got veneers" game every time you watch a movie

Spoiler alert: all of them.

12. You've probably (definitely) taken a secret hit or two of nitrous when no one was looking

What? They give it to patients all the time!

13. You can tell what all your friends' gingivitis levels are just by looking at their smiles

Uh oh... Sarah's creeping into level two...

14. You've had more retainers made for you than anyone ever should

If only they'd stop accidentally getting thrown into the trash!

More: 5 ways being an introvert is nothing like being antisocial

You'd be surprised at how just a touch of pumpkin and spices work with pineapple, coconut and rum in this fall season twist on the classic piña colada. So while you're making your pies, save a little of that filling for these cocktails.

More: Pumpkin pie daiquiri

To make it more festive, garnish with candy corn and even scary Halloween gummy worms.

Oh, and did I mention that this pumpkin piña colada is good to the very last drop?

Pumpkin piña colada recipe

Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 3/4 cup cream of coconut
• 1/4 cup canned pumpkin purée
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 ounces white rum
• 3 cups crushed ice
• 2 pineapple wedges, for garnish
• 2 maraschino cherries, for garnish
• Halloween candy corn, for garnish (optional)
• 6 pinches ground cinnamon, for topping

Directions:

1. To a blender, add the pineapple juice, cream of coconut, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, rum and ice.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Serve in a chilled glass, and garnish with pineapple, maraschino cherries and candy corn (optional). Top with ground cinnamon.

More: Pumpkin spice White Russian

What happened to Kim Kardashian West in Paris, France, last weekend has sparked multiple conversations about whether celebrities should be flaunting their wealth. But according to a new report, Kardashian West's scare is not going to do anything to deter her youngest sister Kylie Jenner.

More: If Kylie Jenner & Tyga get engaged, Kim Kardashian won't give her blessing

Jenner often shares photos of her jewelry, luxury cars and incredible home on social media, and according to a HollywoodLife source, she doesn't intend to stop. Nor does her boyfriend, Tyga.

"Tyga and Kylie are going to keep on doing them," a source told the publication. "They're absolutely pissed about what happened to Kim, but in no way are they going to let that stop them from promoting their images. Kylie has every right to flaunt her jewelry, cars, house, the works. She's worked hard for all her bling and material possessions, and if that's what makes her happy, then so be it. Tyga loves all that about her."

What happened to Kardashian West was terrifying and not something we want to see happen to anyone — celebrity or not. But it also serves as a reminder that living life in the public eye can be dangerous, and while Jenner and Tyga reportedly have no plans to change their lifestyles, they're being smart about it and apparently intend to tighten up on their security.

According to the source, "Both of them will have an excess of bodyguards wherever they go — even if it's to a late-night movie, they will have muscles present." This must be an incredibly stressful time for the Kardashian-Jenner household, and we hope they stay safe!

More: Tyga's money troubles could land Kylie Jenner in jail

Are you surprised that Kylie Jenner doesn't intend to stop flaunting her wealth? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

It’s ironic that the first country to recognize the United States as an independent nation is not known by many Americans. Sint Eustatius, commonly known as Statia is a special municipality of the Netherlands located a quick 20 minute plane ride from Sint Maarten. Statia was once a huge global trading post which is evident by the historical ruins dotting its coastline. And while the current population is small, with approximately 4,000 residents, it is by no means lacking in spirit. I just came back from an amazing trip to the island, and it’s definitely a place that should be known!

More: 6 ways to get the most out of a weekend visit to Charleston, SC

It was the first country in the world to recognize United States independence

On Nov 16, 1776 an American ship sailed to Statia and announced it’s arrival by firing a 13 gun salute, which represented the colonies that had rebelled against Britain. Statia fired back the appropriate amount of shots to acknowledge the event, which was noted in history as the “First Salute.” The importance of this moment was acknowledged by U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt who came to St. Eustatius in 1939 and presented a plaque which is currently on display in Fort Oranje. Later in 1777, Morocco was the first country to formally recognize the United States, but Statia still holds this moment close and celebrates annually with Statia Day.

Being the largest Caribbean trading post in the 1700’s mean it has tons of interesting history!

Thousands of ships came to the island from Europe, America and Africa. Once slavery ended, the island saw a quick economic decline, and the population quickly fell as well. This is the story of many Caribbean islands, but because Statia was never fully built up, much evidence of the past can still be experienced - in some ways it almost feels like time stopped on the island. A variety of interesting sights exist both above and below water. The island is known for blue beads, which were given to slaves by the Dutch as payment. After emancipation, it is said that the slaves threw their beads in the air to celebrate, and they are still found on the island to this day.

It is one of the few Caribbean islands that is untouched by tourism

History is part of what makes this island so special, but it is definitely not your typical tourist destination. I will be honest, this is not a place that I would recommend for a high-end luxury traveller or someone who is focused on activities. Nature, simplicity, history and friendly people are what you will experience. The beach area on the island is minimal, but there are a few areas on the Caribbean Sea side which are nice for swimming. Diving is a very popular activity on the island as well. The Quill, a dormant volcano, has many paths to explore from the inner volcano to peaks where you can see neighboring islands. I did this hike and highly recommend it!

More: 10 stunning and totally unique luxury hotels to inspire a getaway

The island maintains a very stable economy

Oil is the main economic driver for Statia. The American company NuStar Energy operates an oil business on the island which supplies oil to neighboring areas. This business attracts a variety of nationalities across a very small population, which is interesting, and also contributes to the virtually non-existent crime rate as many people are involved in the business. The second biggest employer is the government.

Animals roam free

It is common to see cows, goats and sheep anywhere you go, although they do mostly keep to the higher mountain area. There are efforts to gather and fence in the animals, but at the moment they are free, which adds to the unique feel of the island.

Dutch culture remains

The Dutch influence on the island can be noticed from street names, to the style of houses, and more. Dutch is the official language of the island, but English is spoken everywhere.

More: 7 places you have to visit in Venice Beach, California