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Baby names so pretty they actually mean 'beautiful'

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Exactly what makes a person beautiful isn't easy to define. It's so much more than what we see on the surface. Parents see beauty in their children from the first moment they hold them in their arms, and they hope it's a quality recognized by others throughout their lives. So what could be better than a baby name that means "beautiful"?

Some names literally mean "beautiful" or "attractive," while others — such as Romeo — have connotations of beauty, in this case thanks to Shakespeare.

beautiful baby names
Image: Design: Tiffany Egbert/SheKnows; Image: Getty Images

More: Please don't call my daughter a tomboy — she's so much more than that

Baby girl names meaning "beautiful"

More: Grand old baby names for your little Republican

Baby boy names meaning "beautiful"

More: This printable guide is about to solve all your baby-naming squabbles

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

celebrity baby names
Image: photo by Farley Baricuatro (www.colloidfarl.blogspot.com) / Getty Images

Lamar Odom's rehab reality show is a terrible idea

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Lamar Odom will reportedly showcase his road to recovery, following his near-fatal overdose, in a new reality series.

More: The Lamar Odom chapter of Khloé Kardashian's life is officially almost over

According to Us Weekly, Odom, who just finalized his divorce with Khloe Kardashian and then promptly checked himself into a San Diego rehab facility, is dedicated to remaining on a healthy path.

"He went to continue making sure he stays sober and on the right path," a source told the outlet. "It was something he chose to do." The source added of Odom's decision to go to rehab, he “wanted to feel 100 percent again. He did not relapse, but felt like he wanted to get away and start fresh for the New Year."

I can't be the only one thinking that a reality show is a terrible idea for Odom, who should be focusing on himself and his kids.

More: Finally, a report about Lamar Odom's health that isn't dire and depressing

Filming a reality show is a hectic and consuming endeavor. There is a reason so many people get divorced after partaking in one. It puts strain on otherwise ordinary life moments.

The last thing a newly recovered addict needs to unnecessary stress.

Odom's lawyer Walter Mosley told Huffington Post in a statement, "Lamar is still a free agent with respect to his television rights and he looks forward to exploring the opportunity to work in television again in 2017. We’re going to aggressively try to find a place for him."

More: Khloé Kardashian says Kim's robbery served as a major wakeup for the family

Little else is known about the reality show as of now, but here's to hoping Odom can be an exception to the reality show rule and make it work for himself while maintaining his sobriety.

Would you watch a Lamar Odom reality show?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Khloe and Lamar timeline slideshow
Image: WENN

This not your grandma's Yule log cake

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Your classic bûche de noël, aka Yule log cake, is pretty cool on its own. But we feel like it's missing something. A certain kind of magic, you know? It needs a rainbow is what we're saying. Come with us on this exciting adventure known as the rainbow Yule log.

Come on, you know you want to slice it open and see those colors.

More: We've invented your new favorite holiday dip: Peppermint chocolate fondue

Rainbow Yule log recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 (16.5 ounce) box Funfetti cake mix
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup water
  • 7 (12 ounce) containers white frosting
  • 1 (12 ounce) container chocolate frosting
  • Food coloring in rainbow colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Mix the cake mix, eggs and oil together.
  3. Onto a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet spritzed with cooking spray, evenly spread out the batter and bake for 7 minutes or until the cake springs back when pressed and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Meanwhile, add one food color to each container of white frosting. Just add several drops at a time, mixing until you get the right "rainbow" color. You should have 7 containers of different-colored frostings. Set aside.
  5. After cake is done, immediately place it on a new piece of parchment paper and gently roll it up with the paper still inside while the cake is still warm. Let it cool rolled up, about 10 minutes. Then unroll and remove the parchment.
  6. Once the cake has cooled, starting across the shortest width, pipe a thick log of all seven colors onto the cake in the order of the colors of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet). Smooth frosting out evenly, trying not to mix the colors.
  7. Very carefully roll the cake back up, this time without the parchment paper.
  8. Cover the cake in chocolate frosting. For a bark-like appearance, spread the frosting roughly. Add sprinkles if desired. Slice into wheels to serve.

More: These inspiring bûche de noël cakes are holiday baking goals to the nth degree

Check out the video to learn more about making this rainbow Yule log cake!

rainbow yule log cake

rainbow yule log cake

6 self-defense tips I learned from my German shepherd

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There are many things I love about being a woman. The perils of walking and traveling alone and the safety concerns that accompany it are not among them. As an avid hiker and a stubbornly independent person, this has always irritated me. I hate that constant, nagging feeling of unease. I hate having to double check for my pepper spray mid-hike or carry my keys between my fingers as I walk across a parking lot. I particularly hate getting catcalled, followed and leered at.

Then I got a German shepherd.

The catcalls were the first thing I noticed vanish as my little bundle of love grew into an 85-pound dog with a serious set of teeth. Then I realized that the leerers and catcallers crossed to the far side of the street to avoid passing me and my best friend. In fact, the majority of the people who approached me were suddenly small children and their mothers, or other young women, all of whom wanted to meet my fluffy sidekick. The change was amazing. Not only did I feel safer, but I started to think about what my dog was doing to make this possible and how I could use those tricks when she was not around.

More: Meeting the scariest-looking pit bull changed how I feel about the breed

1. Stranger danger

I know, this probably seems like a no-brainer, but German shepherds, even polite ones like mine, are standoffish with strangers. All strangers. No exceptions. German shepherds don't cut anybody slack — except maybe small children with ice cream on their faces. I'm not saying you need to be rude to strangers you meet on the street, but my dog has definitely taught me to stop trusting people I don't know. Like my German shepherd, it is always best to stay guarded, even in seemingly safe situations.

More: I wouldn't have survived my divorce without my dogs

2. Nothing good happens after dark

When the sun goes down, the guard dog comes out. My dog is a firm believer that the night is full of dangerous possibilities. Our evening walks are done in a state of high alert, and she does not appreciate late-night knocks on the door. When I leave the house at night, I take some of this mentality with me. I constantly check my surroundings for anything suspicious and try to have a mental plan prepared just in case something does happen.

More: War hero dog who lost a leg while protecting soldiers earns a medal for her incredible bravery

3. Personal space is important

My dog does not like strangers in her space or in my space. She will back away and bark at people she deems suspicious (unless I instruct her not to), and will place herself between those same people and me if necessary. As it turns out, moving away from danger and making noise is pretty much what various self-defense teachers have told me to do over the years. If people can't reach you, they can't grab you.

More: "Comfort dog" helps kids stay calm at the dentist

4. Constant vigilance

Playing in the woods is the best thing ever, according to my dog, but even the best of times are not an excuse for letting down her guard. German shepherds can go from chasing tennis balls to full-blown guard dog mode (GSD lovers know exactly what I am talking about) in 0.0001 seconds. Unfortunately, this is also a necessary mentality for women who like to spend time alone. Is it fair that we need to be alert at all times? No. We can, however, stay alert and still enjoy ourselves, as my dog reminds me every day.

More: 6 dog breeds to match your hipster lifestyle

5. Live confidently

Guard dog breeds are dangerous. They know it. Other people know it. Respect is built on this understanding. My dog does not have to do anything. Her confidence and presence is a deterrent. I wish I could give off the same air of confidence as my dog. I haven't quite managed it yet, but by staying alert, aware and confident, I am working on overcoming my fears and avoiding uncomfortable situations.

More: 8 reasons big dogs are the best pets ever

6. The buddy system works

The biggest thing my dog has taught me is that the buddy system works. I am not saying that women should not hike, travel or adventure alone. Given the option, however, I prefer to travel with my dog. There are lots of hotels that allow dogs these days, and plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails. I know I am safer with my buddy, and she couldn't agree more.

Protective dog breeds are not the solution to the problems women face. They can even be dangerous if not properly trained and socialized. For me, though, owning a "scary" dog has taught me that I should not only expect respect, but that I deserve it.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:
Image: Thumbs up Decals/Amazon

Kids stand up to hate this holiday season

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While many of us are enjoying (or trying to enjoy) the holiday season, this year has been especially challenging.

Over the past few months (and, indeed, the year), marginalized communities have been the targets of anger and violence. Of particular concern is the dramatic uptick in anti-Muslim hate crimes. Across the country, Muslim people are being physically and verbally harassed. Muslim women are scared to wear the hijab; Muslim children are called terrorists.

In the face of all this hate, the Hatch kids got together to show their love and support for the Muslim community. They created holiday cards to send to a local Muslim community center. The cards are hand-drawn with messages like “You’re not alone” and “You are loved.”

Said one Hatch kid: “We just want to remind people that there are people with a lot of love in their hearts." Another added, “It’s a little bit of hope." And we need all the hope we can get.

We hope this heartwarming video reminds you that there’s a lot of love out there and that even the smallest gesture can help. Oh, and that #HopeTrumpsHate. Enjoy, and happy holidays.

Hatch kids stand up to hate

Hatch kids stand up to hate

DWTS' Carrie Ann Inaba relived her first date all over again for the most perfect proposal

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Dancing with the Stars judge Carrie Ann Inaba is engaged, and we've got to say, we're a little jealous about just how perfect her proposal was.

More: Maksim Chmerkovskiy got the best (and meanest) revenge on Erin Andrews

Over the weekend Inaba and her boyfriend, General Hospital actor Robb Derringer, got engaged during a romantic beach trip on the Californian coast — which was actually the site of their first date — and they shared the details of the unforgettable proposal during an interview with People magazine on Wednesday, Dec. 14.

"Saturdays are special to us, because our first date was on a Saturday and we have celebrated with a toast, a visit to a beach, special date, a motorcycle adventure, or a road trip on every Saturday since," Inaba told the publication. "So on Saturday, we returned to the place of our first date and got engaged at the same place we shared our spontaneous and magical first date."

The proposal happened on the secluded stretch of beach, where the couple found themselves alone with a bonfire and a bottle of Aubert Chardonnay. Derringer reportedly got down on one knee and asked Inaba to be his wife.

More: There might be a DWTS feud between Julianne Hough & Carrie Ann Inaba

The couple also confirmed their happy news via social media. Inaba took to Instagram to share the photo and accompanying headline, "Carrie Ann Inaba and Robb Derringer Get Engaged After ‘Perfect’ Proposal" from the People article. She captioned it, "We're so excited to share this with everyone....IT'S TRUE! #believeinlove @robbderringer..."

Carrie Ann Inaba Instagram

Carrie Ann Inaba Instagram

While Derringer took to Instagram to share a photo of himself and Inaba and the gorgeous engagement ring he gifted her with. He captioned the post with a sweet tribute to his soon-to-be-wife, writing, "So overjoyed to share the best thing that has ever happened to me when @carrieanninaba made me the luckiest guy in the world in saying....yes. Thanks to [jewelry designer] @jeandousset for helping me to create the most unique, exquisite symbol of my love for Carrie, and to @people for such a lovely article. #relentless #adventuresinlove #affianced."

Robb Derringer Instagram

Robb Derringer Instagram

More: Seems Steven Tyler's girlfriend wants everyone to think they're engaged

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Do you think Carrie Ann Inaba's proposal sounded perfect? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Before you go, check out our slideshow.

DWTS heartwarming moments
Image: ABC

Kim Kardashian West's return to social media is already proving controversial

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After more than two months break from social media, Kim Kardashian West is back — well, kinda.

More: Watch Kim Kardashian West's sexy Love advent video

On Wednesday, Dec. 14, Kardashian West returned to Instagram (she's been M.I.A. since her robbery in Paris, France, on Oct. 3) to share a series of videos (with the focus on her famous booty), however, she did not post the videos on her original account. Instead she created an new Kimoji account — believed to be set up to help promote her new Kimoji merchandise, which will be released on Friday, Dec.16, Us Weekly reports.

It's also worth noting that the account, which already has over 8,900 followers, is verified, so it's not an imposter. As for the content, the account features nine blurry posts (two different videos and one image, all posted three times each) which show a lot of cleavage and booty action.

One video shows a woman from behind (which is believed to be Kardashian West, or her likeness) twerking in matching black underwear, a second video shows a side view of the twerking, and the third post is an image of someone's booty resting against ample cleavage. All nine posts are captioned with "December 16."

More: It could take years to find & bring Kim Kardashian West's robbers to justice

Kim Kardashian Kimoji

Kim Kardashian Kimoji

Kim Kardashian Kimoji 2

Kim Kardashian Kimoji 2

Kim Kardashian Kimoji 3

Kim Kardashian Kimoji 3

While this does not officially mark Kardashian West's return to social media, the posts have managed to create quite a reaction.

Some posts come from excited fans who are pleased to see that Kardashian West is slowly returning to the public eye — comments include, 'the QUEEN!," "yayy kim is back! i missed the fashion inspiration!," and "I quite confused and excited at the same time! LOL" — but others have been very harsh.

"Kim, please respect yourself and others as children of God. This is so sad," momofhandb commented. While theperezhilton wrote, "After your "traumatic" Paris robbery, THIS is how you return to Instagram? Clearly nothing's changed."

More: Kanye flew out to NYC to find a psychiatrist — and meet up with Trump?

What do you think of Kim Kardashian West's return to Instagram? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

kim k accomplishments slideshow
Image: Lionsgate

Why I’m afraid I passed my chronic disease to my children

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Yesterday, I spent all day in a big city hospital being the first patient there ever to receive a new treatment for Crohn’s disease. I met with my doctor, signed a consent waiver saying that I would not sue the hospital if I reacted badly to the treatment and then went to the infusion lab, where for an hour, an IV of the new medicine dripped slowly through a vein into my system.

For those unfamiliar with the condition, Crohn’s disease an autoimmune disorder that attacks the gastrointestinal tract anywhere from the mouth all the way down through to the colon (in my case, I have it in my throat, my stomach and both my large and small intestines). It also causes rashes, arthritis, fevers, exhaustion, nausea, lack of appetite, anemia, weakness, pain and eye issues.

More: British man reveals the harsh reality of living with Crohn's disease

In two months, I’ll start injecting the medication into my thigh or stomach every eight weeks to try to force my immune system into stopping its attack on itself. As my doctor said when I signed the form, I have to do it because even though the chances are slim that I’ll get better, if I don’t do it, I’ll surely not get better at all. At this point, there is no other option for me.

That’s what my life has become over the last 16 years, when after a year of incredible pain, discomfort and exhaustion had kept me in bed, often unable to care for my then 3 and 6-year-old daughters, I was definitively diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. I know it runs in my family, and right now, my biggest worry is whether I will pass this horrendous disease down to my daughters, who are 22 and 18 — on the cusp of adulthood, in graduate school and college respectively — about to set down careers, roots and plans for their own families. What have I done to them?

More: Mothers often feel guilty — but when does it become unhealthy?

I went through infertility treatment to have my girls. They were hard-fought, hard-won pregnancies. They are, and forever will be, the babies I grew inside my body, the little girls I gave up a career for and happily dove into school volunteerism for — the young women I shepherded through adolescence during some very dark times, only to emerge beautiful, happy butterflies on the other side. I have given them, literally, all the best parts of me.

But I may have given them the worst of me too. My gastroenterologist said their chances of getting this disease are 10 times higher than the average person. Ten times higher, I muse to myself in a loop in my head. Ten times.

As much as possible, I try not to go there. I don’t allow myself to think about what it would be like if I actually did this to them. I try not to think about my nephew or niece, either, now 16 and 14 — bright, happy, active teenagers. They’re at risk too. I try not to get riled up when my daughter’s stomach hurts or she has a fever or she’s exhausted. I try not to worry about how pale she might look when I see her for dinner one evening.

More: Mom faces genetic duplication in herself, kids

Like most parents, I want my children to have what I never had. For me, that’s an advanced degree, an exciting career, more money, the ability to give their children and themselves everything they could desire. I want my daughters to be content as much of the time as possible, to be happy as often as they can be. To laugh; to be in love. I want them to achieve everything they want — which, because they are bright and hardworking, means they are likely to — if only this disease stays away from them.

My daughters are at the prime age for being diagnosed with Crohn’s. If I can get them through their mid-30s without the crushing news, we might be out of the woods. If the stomachache doesn’t materialize into days of mind-crushing pain, if the nausea is from a 12-hour bug, if the fever is from a flu that’s going around — we’ll be OK. Because they can’t not be OK. Everything in me, all of the good parts I put into them, is depending on it.


Hopefully Lamar Odom went to rehab for himself, not for Khloé Kardashian's approval

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Khloé Kardashian has moved on from her relationship with Lamar Odom (and if reports are to be believed, things are going very well with herself and Tristan Thompson), however, that doesn't mean that she no longer cares about the well-being of her former husband.

More: Khloé Kardashian already tried a speedy engagement — she won't do it again

In fact, according to Hollywood Life, it's quite the opposite, because a source told the publication that Kardashian is "relieved that Lamar [Odom] has finally decided to get serious about his health."

According to the source, Odom and Kardashian are still on speaking terms, because he apparently told her about his plans to enter rehab. Although at first she didn't believe him, now that he's actually admitted himself into a San Diego, California facility, she couldn't be happier.

"This is something she has been praying for for a long time, and she fully supports him and wants only the best for him," the source said, adding, "The entire Kardashian family is proud of Lamar."

It's been over a year since Odom's near-fatal overdose at a brothel in Las Vegas, but he appears to be taking his recovery seriously once again — and we hope it's for the right reasons.

Another source previously told the publication that Odom intended to seek professional help to prove to Kardashian that he'd changed, but we really hope that's not true, because while it's great to know that Kardashian still shows her support for him, the person that Odom should really be focusing on making happy is himself.

More: Lamar Odom's rehab reality show is a terrible idea

Do you think Lamar Odom made a smart move enterting rehab? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Khloe and Lamar timeline slideshow
Image: WENN

10 best Christmas nails to try this weekend

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The holidays are, uh, pretty stressful. Unless you’re planning to stay inside and see literally nobody except your kids and spouse all month (lucky you), you’ll probably have to make at least one public appearance at a Christmas party or family dinner, meaning you’ll have to wash your hair, put on non-yoga pants, and, you know, try.

More: Christmas sweater nail design

Which is why we’re really into the idea of holiday-themed nails. Because even if you throw your hair into a topknot and barely manage to swipe concealer under your eyes before the doorbell rings, you’ll still feel festive and put together. Holiday nail art is like the Christmas sweater for your hands. So to get you in the spirit, we rounded up our ten favorite Christmas nail designs and inspo pics that literally anyone—even a nail newb—can try on themselves. Scroll down to see our favorites, and then whip out your nail polish tonight. Your hands will thank you for it.

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Starbucks' new Fruitcake Frappuccino is kind of weird, but a must-try

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There's a new holiday Starbucks drink in town: The Fruitcake Frappuccino. We tried it this morning, and... whoa. But first, here's the official description.

"The Fruitcake Frappuccino starts with a Hazelnut Crème Frappuccino blended with dried fruit and spiced with cinnamon, topped with whipped cream and an ornate topping of caramel dots and a sprinkle of matcha."

More: Take a sneak peek at Starbucks' first latte of 2017

Right? There's a lot going on there. We purposely tried ours without reading the description so we could come at it fresh with no expectations. First, there's a lovely cinnamon-ginger-clove spice flavor, you know the one that just tastes like Christmas? But then suddenly there's something chewy and sweet — dried fruit. It's just barely small enough to fit through the straw. In fact, you may get some caught along the way. It kind of makes you feel like you're drinking a Kind bar. But in a fun way because it's so sweet.

More: Starbucks' new Snickerdoodle Hot Cocoa arrives along with a major pivot

That sprinkle of matcha on top looks pretty, but don't kid yourself. It is not making this drink healthier. This is a sugar bomb, but a yummy holiday treat of a sugar bomb you have to try at least once. It's definitely better than real fruitcake.

More: Starbucks is finally giving us what we've been asking for

The Fruitcake Frappuccino is out starting today, along with some cute, not-so-ugly ugly sweater cookies.

'Kangaroo care' linked to healthier babies

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According to a new study published by Pediatrics, the key to a healthy childhood and adolescence for premature babies is a whole lot of cuddling. At least, it seems to be a big part of what premature babies need the most in order to thrive later on in life.

The study, which was conducted in Columbia, followed 716 premature and low-weight babies born between the years of 1993 and 1996. Researchers reconnected with 441 of these families between 2012 and 2016, comparing the health, lifestyle and social functioning of a control group and a group given kangaroo care after birth.

Kangaroo care is a care strategy used for low weight and premature babies. Created in 1979 by doctors Rey and Martinez, it was originally developed as a response to a shortage of incubators in Columbia and an increase of aggressive infections in hospitals. Kangaroo care quickly spread worldwide as an alternative to incubator care.

There are three components to kangaroo care: plenty of skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding as frequently as the mother is able, and an early discharge from the hospital with thorough follow up by hospital staff.

The results of this study confirmed that the group of infants receiving Kangaroo Care fared better over the course of twenty years. Members of this group seemed to have fewer schooling difficulties, specifically those most typically seen in very premature and low birth weight babies. These children were also less hyperactive and aggressive. Researchers hypothesized that Kangaroo Care may provide more opportunity for brain tissues and pathways to develop during the first year. Additionally, it is believed that Kangaroo Care benefits more than just the children: it re-orients the entire family to be more child-centric by encouraging intense paternal involvement. This likely explains the behavioral changes and improved social functioning seen in this group.

It's important to note that this study was able to establish a correlation but not a cause — they’re still looking to prove their hypotheses about why kangaroo care seems to go hand-in-hand with healthier and happier kids. More research is needed on the topic moving forward, but for now, researchers in Columbia are working hard to get the message out that kangaroo care is the preferred approach to care of preterm and low birth weight babies whenever possible.

Expecting parents at risk for preterm birth or parents of children born prematurely can use this information to confidently advocate for Kangaroo Care as part of their child’s care plan. Kangaroo care is inexpensive, encourages a strong bond between both parents and the baby, plays a role in stabilizing the most medically fragile babies and encourages much needed weight gain.

And maybe, just maybe, more studies like these will put that age old questions to rest: “Can I spoil my baby by holding her too much?” No! Premature or full-term, new parents everywhere should take the hint: cuddle their new babes for as long, and as often, as their hearts desire. It's for their own good.

Sleep training my baby made me a more confident mom

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My husband would be home in half an hour — just 30 minutes, if I could make it that long.

I paced the hallway with my crying 4-month-old as panic rose in my throat. It had been another day of fighting my son to sleep — nonstop rocking and bouncing trying to get him to nap, only to have him wake up as soon as I put him down. It was 4 p.m., he was overtired and I was losing it. I called a friend for support and sobbed to her on the phone.

“What could be wrong with him?” I asked her in desperation. “I’ve tried everything. He won’t sleep.”

 “I don’t know,” she answered. “You two just aren’t speaking the same language right now.”

As an anxious first-time mom, I had no idea what I was doing. I leaned heavily on the internet, Googling every little thing and spending hours scrolling through Facebook mom groups. Sleep-training was a hot topic I found on these forums, especially the technique known as cry it out.

More: Our sleep-training advice: Skip town and make your partner do it

Nearly every day, I read about the dangers of letting babies cry — about how babies left to cry feel abandoned and never learn to trust their parents. With only a negative perspective on something I really had no idea about, I jumped on the "I will never leave my baby to cry" bandwagon before my son was even born.

The fierce insistence from moms online of the harmful effects of letting a baby cry took up residence in my head and my heart. My baby’s crying devastated me. I truly believed letting him cry would harm him. So I jumped, literally, from wherever I was — in the middle of a meal or a shower, on the phone or in the bathroom — if he made so much as a peep. I rarely paused to observe and listen. I scooped him up and immediately fed, changed or jumped into the 5 S's of soothing.

"Never let him cry," I would say to myself, pushing anxious knots of inadequacy down into my belly as my attempts to soothe him resulted in escalating screams. I was convinced that I or my baby was broken, and with each difficult day, I was sure my inability to soothe him was a reflection of my poor mothering. I figured I just wasn't cut out for this.

He was around 4 months old when I realized things had to change. He was hardly sleeping, my husband and I were suffering and I had developed a debilitating depression. We were exhausted and frustrated by the process of putting him down to sleep every night. My husband and I would bounce or rock him to sleep only to have him wake up as soon as we put him down — and we would start all over again. It wasn’t unusual for this to take several hours before he finally stayed asleep. One evening, after three hours of attempting to put him to bed, my husband and I looked at each other, exhausted and numb.

“We can’t keep doing this,” he said. “I think we have to let him cry.”

I wanted to say no, but deep down, I knew he was right. Still, it wasn’t easy. My husband and I decided on two things: If our son still wasn't asleep after an hour, we would pick him up and if things didn't improve by the third night, we would abandon the method. But as it turns out, we never had to consider our ultimatums. The first night was difficult, and I wondered several times if we were doing the right thing. My husband did go into the room every few minutes to soothe our baby by rubbing his back, and the crying lasted about 45 minutes before he finally fell asleep. But every night since then has been an improvement, and now we put him to bed with ease.

I'm not exaggerating when I say this method changed my life. Not only did bedtime become a piece of cake, but I realized something important: Leaving my son to cry alone for a few minutes at a time would not kill him. It would not damage him beyond repair or sever our bond. There is actual neglect and abuse in this world, but for the most part, we’re all doing the best we can as parents — and we’re doing it all in love.

Looking back, I can see now I was stifling his attempts to communicate. Crying does not always mean pain or distress. It can mean any number of emotions — from frustration to being overwhelmed to needing to vent about a stressful day. After we sleep-trained our son, I started to hear the subtle differences in his cries and it became much more clear when he actually needed me and when he was displaying some other kind of emotion. Finally, we were speaking the same language.

More: 10 Mom-approved tips to get sleep with a new baby at home

I am not suggesting cry-it-out or any parenting method is the right fit for every child, but I do believe it was the right choice for my family, and I stand by it as one of the best parenting decisions my husband and I have made. Letting my son cry it out taught me to actually listen to him, and we are both better off for it. Our bond is stronger now than ever, and I credit that in part to giving him the chance to self-soothe. Both he and I needed a little bit of autonomy, and I think my son has thrived on the small amount of independence he has gained since I stepped back and gave him the opportunity to figure out a few things on his own. Now obviously, I'm not sending him off to fend for himself any time soon, but little by little, with each new day, he will need me less and less. It’s important to allow him that space, and eventually I’ll have to let him go.

One of the hardest lessons to learn in parenting is how to trust and listen to yourself. I’m thankful to my sweet baby and the cry-it-out method for teaching me how to do that.

In the best news of the week: Michael Bublé's sick toddler will be home for Christmas

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Michael Bublé and his wife, Luisana Lopilato, have been going through an incredibly difficult time after it was revealed last month that their 3-year-old son, Noah, was diagnosed with liver cancer and would have to undergo four months of chemotherapy. However, there is a small glimmer of hope for the family this Christmas.

More: More updates revealed about Michael Bublé's 3-year-old son's cancer diagnosis

Michael Buble Instagram

Michael Buble Instagram

Noah has successfully completed the first stage of chemotherapy and can now spend time with his family at home instead of in hospital, The Mirror reports.

The family won't be headed home to Vancouver (where their usual celebrations take place) but are expected to spend Christmas with loved ones in Los Angeles, California, where Noah has been receiving treatment. But it will still be a big family affair, because Lopilato's brother Dario and her father, Eduardo, are set to travel from Argentina to Los Angeles to join the Bublé family and Lopilato's mother, Beatriz, (who has been by her daughter's side for the last month).

Michael Buble Instagram 3

Michael Buble Instagram 3

More: Michael Bublé announces baby #2 with the help of his adorable son, Noah

Fans couldn't be happier to hear of the Bublé family's news, and have taken to social media to show their support.

reaction to Michael Buble's son

reaction to Michael Buble's son

reaction to Michael Buble's son 2

reaction to Michael Buble's son 2

reaction to Michael Buble's son 3

reaction to Michael Buble's son 3

reaction to Michael Buble's son 4

reaction to Michael Buble's son 4

reaction to Michael Buble's son 5

reaction to Michael Buble's son 5

More: Criss Angel's turning his 2-year-old son's battle with cancer into a positive thing

According to The Mirror, an operation for Noah is planned for the end of next month. An Argentinian news outlet said that Noah had "successfully finished the first stage of his treatment," adding, "this is without doubt the best present for his parents and the relatives who have been helping them out since they learnt about his cancer diagnosis."

Erika Girardi proves that The Young and the Restless is just like RHOBH

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It’s the episode all Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fans have been waiting for — Erika Girardi’s appearance on The Young and the Restless. Viewers watched RHOBH co-star Eileen Davidson gift Girardi with a role on the CBS soap in a recent episode for her 45th birthday.

More: Camille Grammer just put her ex-boyfriend in his place in a big way

“Do you want to be on my show?” asked Davidson on the Season 7 premiere of RHOBH.

“Are you serious?” replied Girardi.

Well, it wasn’t that easy. In fact, CBS Daytime made Girardi audition for the role.

She had to audition!” Davidson told Entertainment Tonight. “They probably would have given her, like, one line, but they thought, ‘You know what? We'll see what she can do,’ and they auditioned her and she did so great. We did a couple scenes, and she's playing a high-powered executive.”

Erika Girardi on Y&R

Erika Girardi on Y&R

Girardi played the role of Farrah Dubose, a high-powered real-estate agent who runs into Davidson’s character, Ashley Abbott, at a coffee shop. Ashley’s coffee spills all over Farrah’s expensive outfit and that’s when it’s hard to see the difference between a soap and an episode of RHOBH.

MoreY&R and B&B aren't the only soaps with memorable crossovers

“Look at this mess, what are you thinking?” yelled Farrah.

“Excuse me, in my defense, you could watch where you are going,” replied Ashley.

“You know where I was going? To show a $3 million listing… that is until you doused hot coffee all over my new suit. This is custom couture and it’s ruined!” exclaimed Farrah.

The whole scene played out as hilariously and ridiculously as any first-world issue the RHOBH cast encounters on an average episode. It was over-the-top, fun and deliciously devious as the women walk away from each other with, “What a bitch!”

MoreFans work hard to get All My Children & One Life to Live back on ABC

Girardi also had two other scenes which lead us to believe she could come back to Genoa City. Every soap needs a high-end realtor to stir up some drama and Girardi’s character is the perfect high-maintenance person to do so.

Davidson’s birthday gift suited Girardi so well. As RHOBH fans know, Girardi’s mom and grandmother were huge soap fans and named Erika Jayne Girardi after the infamous Erica Kane on All My Children. You know this gift was well-appreciated by the reality star.

Maybe next time Girardi appears on Y&R, she can bring her singing and dancing alter-ego Erika Jayne to the table because the soap genre is exactly where the reality star belongs.


I voted for Trump – but only after grieving for what my party had done

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As a conservative Mormon woman who is staunchly Republican, 2016 was a sad year. That’s right America, Donald Trump will be your president come January 20th. Almost no one saw that one coming and many people – Republican, Democrat, or otherwise– aren't happy about it. I was so unhappy, in fact, that I went through all five stages of the grieving process just to get through this election year. But that’s 2016 for you, folks.

More: Women have mixed feelings about whether to fear a Trump presidency

I was fully prepared to face one of two ultimate possibilities in this election: either the person I wanted would win or the person I didn’t want would win. I never thought that I wouldn’t want either candidate, and that I would have to make a decision, not based on how I thought my vote would help the country, but on how I thought it would do the least amount of damage. When we headed into the primaries I thought Donald Trump was only running for president as a joke or because he was a megalomaniac who had everything in the world except for this one position. Poor man, I thought, he’ll be so disappointed when he doesn’t even get any votes at all. But when he started winning primaries in different states I started to go into the first stage of grief: denial. I just kept thinking, This can’t be happening. Please tell me it’s all a dream, a prank, or even the apocalypse. Whatever it is, it’s definitely not actually happening though – right? But it was.

Then there was anger that he was actually beating out all the more qualified candidates. Who were these people who were voting for him, and why wouldn’t they just stop? He’s a narcissist! He’s not even conservative! Don’t vote for him! But they did.

More: Love will prevail, but only if we can extend it to Trump voters

Then began the bargaining. Maybe we can still put a stop to this nonsense. Maybe if one guy drops out then another guy will be able to beat Trump. Maybe if I use the #NeverTrump hashtag he will cease to exist. Maybe if I go to church and pray a lot our country won’t implode. Maybe we can still fix this. But we couldn’t.

During the months leading up to the election – and especially on election day itself – I was just plain depressed. I’d given up discussing politics with my friends and family. I’d stopped listening to my favorite political podcast. I just wanted to crawl in a hole and never have to vote at all. It’s lonely and depressing when very few of your friends agree with you on something as fundamental to your value system as the way you cast your vote. My social media walls were like the aftermath of a bloody battlefield, littered with false reports, hateful rhetoric, and threats to unfriend everyone.

About half of my friends are very liberal, which doesn’t bother me much because we usually avoid political topics and just agree to disagree. But this past year I found myself in heated debates with fellow conservatives over everything from the electoral college, to the two-party system, to whether or not it’s moral to vote for the “lesser of two evils.” Some of my conservative friends thought Trump to be just the kind of brazen wild-card the country was in need of (which I didn’t agree with), others hated him and so voted for a third party candidate (I didn’t agree with that either), and still others decided not to vote at all (also no). It seemed that very few people felt the way that I did and hated Donald Trump but saw Hillary Clinton and/or the Democrats as a bigger problem, and so voted for Trump anyway. Obviously people did because almost half of Americans voted for him for one reason or another. Maybe they were just afraid to admit it. I don’t blame them.

It wasn’t easy to go against how I felt inside to do what I thought was right. I could have felt much more comfortable by not voting for the most audacious, offensive person I’ve ever heard speak at a podium. Ultimately though, I decided to do what I thought would damage the country the least. I headed to the polls with a Xanax in my pocket in case of a panic attack, ice cream in my freezer to reward myself for putting on my big girl panties and facing reality, and I voted for Donald Trump.

It took awhile, but I think I’ve finally reached the stage of grief known as acceptance. I’m numb and tired, but I can at least comprehend what has happened. 2016 gave me a lot of grief and I pray that Donald Trump doesn’t do anything next year to give me any more. 2017 had better be a relaxed and uneventful year for America. After what we’ve been through, we definitely deserve it.

More: If kids admire anything about Trump, I hope it's this

5 questions to ask about breast and ovarian cancer during your annual checkup

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The new year is around the corner but before you say “See you later, 2016,” make sure you see your doctor. According to a recent Zocdoc survey, “80 percent of Americans admit they are delaying or forgoing preventive care. The issue is worse for Millennials, with 9 in 10 (93 percent) not scheduling doctor visits.”

More: 10 cute texts from mom you can't help laughing at

It’s so important that you pay your doctor a visit at least once a year because things change, whether it’s our bodies or new medical information. This is the time to work with a great partner – your doctor or health practitioner – to answer any and all of the questions you may have. Not to mention, the well-woman’s exam is covered by all insurances due to the Affordable Care Act. Every well-woman’s exam should include:

  • A clinical breast exam: A physical exam of the breast that is thorough, covers all the breast tissue, and typically lasts several minutes. If your doctor offers this exam, say yes – and if your doctor doesn’t bring it up, make sure you do!
  • A pelvic exam: Your provider will actually feel your ovaries to see if there is anything abnormal. During your pelvic exam, you may also receive a pap smear. It’s important to note that a pap smear checks for cervical cancer – not ovarian cancer.

At Bright Pink, we’re asked about mammograms all the time. We get you, it’s confusing! We align with the majority of cancer organizations and medical professional societies that recommend women begin mammograms at age 40. For a lot of women that recommendation works, but if you have a first-degree relative who was diagnosed with breast cancer, you should talk to your provider about scheduling a mammogram when you are 10 years younger than the age at which your relative was diagnosed. For example, if your mom was diagnosed with breast cancer at 45, you should talk with your doctor about screening at 35.

During your next well-woman’s exam, use these questions to guide a quality conversation: 

What are the risk factors for breast and ovarian cancer? How do these factors affect me now and in the future?

There are 52 million women in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 45, and all are at some risk for breast and ovarian cancer. The average woman’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is one in eight, making it the leading cancer diagnosis in the U.S. (the risk is higher if you have a strong family history of cancer, a genetic predisposition, or a history of abnormal breast biopsy). The average woman’s lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is 1 in 75, and it is the deadliest gynecologic disease – two thirds of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will die as a result.

What’s our plan? What prevention and screening plan do you recommend for me based on my personal risk?

Assess your risk for breast and ovarian cancer and bring your results to your next doctor’s appointment to help guide the conversation as you develop the best proactive strategy for you.

What lifestyle changes could I make to reduce my risk for developing breast and ovarian cancer?

The choices you make today can impact your risk for these diseases in the future. Your doctor should provide you with customized strategies that fit you and your situation (quitting smoking, exercising and maintaining a healthy BMI, limiting alcohol intake, taking oral contraceptives, etc.). There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to reducing your personal risk for breast and ovarian cancer.

More: 5 misconceptions about breast and ovarian cancer you need to stop believing

Should I see any specialists to manage my risk, such as a genetic counselor? If so, do you have any recommendations?

Ensure you feel properly informed and empowered to make a thoughtful, supported decision when it comes to breast and ovarian cancer genetic testing. Today, 90 percent of individuals who carry a BRCA gene mutation (just one of the known cancer-causing genes) in the U.S. don’t know it. Many women who should consider genetic testing never even start the process! (Want to learn more? Check out ExploreYourGenetics.org.)

What breast and ovarian cancer symptoms should I be on the lookout for between visits?

Are you an advocate for your own breast and ovarian health yet? Make sure you are familiar with the symptoms of breast cancer (nipple discharge, scaly sore or rash, and lumps, to name a few) and ovarian cancer (prolonged bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, and menstrual changes, among several others). Put your awareness into action and leave your well-woman’s exam well-informed and with a plan!

It’s super important to find a medical professional you trust. She or he should listen to your questions during your exam, pay attention to your concerns, and provide clear recommendations you can follow. Remember if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. You’re worth it!

More: How you can raise money for breast cancer just by shopping

Lindsay Avner, is the Founder and CEO of Bright Pink, a national nonprofit on a mission to save women's lives from breast and ovarian cancer. Since 2007, she has led the charge to reach millions of young women and transition the national conversation from one focused on breast and ovarian cancer awareness to one centered on tangible, life-saving action.

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds officially have the cutest family ever

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For the first time ever, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds stepped out in public with their adorable daughters.

More: Can't beat Blake Lively's birth plan — it included Taylor Swift

Reynolds was honored on Thursday with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the whole Lively-Reynolds clan came out to support.

Sporting a beautiful blue dress and some serious heels, Lively still flawlessly played mom to the girls, smiling widely the whole time.

The couple has James, 2, and their newborn baby, just born in September, whose name has not yet been announced.

Reynolds told Extra of the occasion, "This is one of the rare occasions when we thought we got to bring the clan. I’d regret it in 20 years if I didn’t."

James looks just like Lively with her bright blue eyes and platinum blonde, curly hair. She is also clearly comfortable with the spotlight. In one cute moment, while the family was taking photos, James snatched the microphone and held it proudly.

More: Still upset by Blake Lively's 'Oakland booty'? Sir Mix-A-Lot has words for you

"It’s not the first time she’s snatched a mic out of someone’s hands," Reynolds joked. "When she’s 20, she can happily do whatever she wants. Thirty — I’m gonna up that to 30."

Reynolds and Lively are notoriously private about their children. Though they are both active on social media, they don't post pictures showing their kids' faces.

Reynolds also took time during his speech to thank Lively, calling her "everything to me."

He added, joking, "You are the best thing, the best thing that has ever happened to me — second only to this star. ...You make everything better, absolutely everything in my life better. You’ve made me the father of my dreams when I thought I only had fun uncle potential."

More: Blake Lively isn't apologizing for celebrating her curves — because that's ridiculous

You can watch the whole ceremony in the video below.

Ryan reynolds hollywood walk of fame video

Ryan reynolds hollywood walk of fame video

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

ryan reynolds ripped slideshow
Image: MGM

Chris Pratt's son wants nothing to do with Star-Lord

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Chris Pratt as Star-Lord in Guardians of the Galaxy gained hundred of thousands of fans, unfortunately, Pratt's son, 4-year-old Jack, is not one of them.

More: Why Anna Faris, Chris Pratt are the best married couple in Hollywood

"He does like all the Marvel heroes — except Star-Lord!" Pratt's wife Anna Faris revealed to E! News at the Passengers premiere on Wednesday.

Pratt added, recalling a conversation with his son, "Like, 'Who do you want to be for Halloween? 'Captain America or Iron Man!' I was like, 'What about Star-Lord?' 'Nah. Maybe Spider-Man.'"

Poor Pratt!

With Christmas right around the corner, the Hollywood couple dished on Jack's Christmas list for Santa.

"He wants a remote control helicopter," Chris dished. "I got him one two years ago, but Anna was like, 'Honey — he's 2. You can't give him a remote control helicopter. He's going to kill somebody!'"

As for Faris, she's already rocking her Christmas present. No, literally. Pratt got her a rock of the diamond variety.

More: 11 times Chris Pratt and Anna Faris had the cutest family EVER

"He just got me this ring. I know. Like two days ago," Faris explained, flashing her blingy diamond. "I look [at it] and I'm like, 'I can't believe it either!' He's an incredibly romantic man and I'm very, very lucky."

Anna faris christmas ring upgrade

Anna faris christmas ring upgrade

As People reported, Faris' new ring is definitely an upgrade in size from her previous ring. Good job, Chris Pratt!

More: Chris Pratt shows us all once again just how in love he is with Anna Faris

"She got me a tractor," Pratt added, "so we're kind of even!"

Are you a fan of Chris Pratt as Star-Lord or do you understand Jack's hesitation?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

23 dramatic celebrity weight loss journeys
Image: Michael Kovac/Getty Images

Bachelor in Paradise is coming back to haunt Bachelor Nick Viall

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There is already controversy surrounding Bachelor Nick Viall, and Season 21 hasn't even started yet.

More: Even the job titles of The Bachelor Season 21 ladies are dramatic

Of course, after two times as the runner-up on The Bachelorette and one appearance on Bachelor in Paradise, Viall has his share of baggage. But Viall is maintaining that his intentions on the show are pure. And, as a fan, I believe he's genuine.

In a recent conference call, Viall addressed the rumors that he ditched Jen Saviano — who he recently dated on Bachelor in Paradise Season 3 — in order to become The Bachelor.

"No, none of that was remotely true," Viall said, according to Us Weekly.

The rumor started when fellow Bachelor in Paradise Season 3 alum Lauren Himle threw Viall under the bus during an interview with Detroit's The Ticket radio station.

More: Nick Viall's new Bachelor promo is such a tease

"I am not a big fan of [his]," Himle said of Viall. "He dated my great friend Jen on Bachelor in Paradise… but it was my understanding that they were still seeing each other after the show completed."

Himle went on to say that, as far as she knew, Viall and Saviano were still together up until a week before he was announced as the new Bachelor.

As for Saviano, she addressed Viall's role on The Bachelor during an episode of After Paradise on ABC saying, "there's definitely mixed emotions," but she added, "I've moved on, and I'm doing good."

Saviano, after all, knows how to get over a breakup.

Jen saviano instagram pic 1

Jen saviano instagram pic 1

The Bachelor Season 21 premieres Jan. 5, 2017 on ABC.

More: Even the job titles of The Bachelor Season 21 ladies are dramatic

Do you believe Viall has good intention or is he just doing The Bachelor for attention?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Jason Mesnick crying on The Bachelor
Image: ABC
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