Buckingham Palace officials made the announcement Thursday that Kate Middleton will be taking over Elizabeth's role as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Elizabeth has served as the club's patron since 1952, nearly 65 years. In the same announcement, it was revealed that Elizabeth is stepping down from her patronages of 24 other clubs, including the Wimbledon Tennis Club.
"At the end of the Queen’s 90th birthday year, Her Majesty will step down as patron from a number of national organisations. The patronages will be passed on to other members of the royal family in the coming months," read a statement released by the palace. "Her Majesty is currently patron of more than 600 organisations and has enjoyed a close and active association with a great number of them throughout her reign. Her Majesty will continue to serve as patron to hundreds of charities and institutions but will now share this work with her family."
The announcement comes just a day after the queen and her husband, Prince Philip, missed their train to their country home, where they spend Christmas each year. That started speculation about their health, though the palace insisted that they only had colds and had decided to do their traveling on a different day. Still, with the queen at 90 years old and Philip at 95, people can't seem to help but fear the worst.
Just like people, it's normal for pets to gain weight over time, especially as we start to get comfortable in our relationship. You may not even notice that there's a little more of your cat to love, until your vet points out the problem. Unfortunately, extra weight on a small animal like a cat can pose a serious risk, considering that the average domestic cat should weigh no more than 10 pounds.
If your kitty falls within the 58 percent of cats that are overweight or obese, increasing risk for a number of diseases and health problems, here's what you can do to get their health back on track.
Face the facts
It may look cute when a kitty is chubby, but the health outlook for a fat cat is actually quite dismal. Just like humans, extra weight puts cats at risk for many serious health problems. Diabetes mellitus, arthritis, heart and respiratory disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, skin problems, some forms of cancer and a shorter life span are just some of the risk factors that come with feline obesity. You want to keep your cat around as long as possible — and extra weight on their frame isn't going to do them any favors.
According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, the following weight ranges are appropriate for healthy cats. Keep in mind that because they are so small, a couple of extra pounds on an animal like a cat is much different than a few extra pounds on you. If you are concerned, it is always best to check with your veterinarian.
Originally published February 2013. Updated December 2016.
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How does your cat measure up?
We know there's nothing simple about getting a cat to sit on a scale. Fortunately, it's pretty simple to determine if your cat is overweight without knowing the numbers. Try these tricks to determine if your kitty is on the healthy side of the scale or not.
Can you feel your cat's ribs? You should be able to feel each rib distinctly with just a little fat covering beneath the skin. If your cat's ribs are visually protruding, your cat is too thin. If you cannot feel his ribs at all, your cat is obese.
When you look at your cat from above, can you see his waist? A cat's waistline should go inwards. If your cat does not have a distinct waist or if it protrudes outwards, it is likely that your cat is overweight.
Check the bony areas of your cat's body. You should be able to feel the bones of the spine, shoulders, hips and base of the tail. There will be a slight fat covering, but the bones should feel prominent.
When you view your cat from the side, does it have an abdominal tuck? Is the diameter of the cat's waist smaller than its ribcage? If so, your cat is within a healthy weight range. If the waist is the same size or larger than the ribcage, your cat is likely to be carrying extra weight.
If you think there's a possibility that your cat might be overweight, he probably is. Schedule a visit with your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can confirm your cat's weight issue and help you formulate a plan to get him back on track. He'll also confirm that your cat is healthy enough to begin a diet.
The weight loss plan
Weight issues with cats are pretty similar to the weight issues humans deal with. Weight gain happens when cats take in more calories than they work off, making it more common in house cats than in animals that spend large amounts of time outside. To help your cat lose weight, cut his calorie intake and encourage him to be more active.
It's not easy to get a cat to exercise, but you can make a big difference through play. Get him to play with toys or chase a flashlight around a room.
Don't expect to see big results fast. Healthy weight loss happens slowly. Ask your vet exactly how much weight your cat needs to lose and how long you can expect the process to take.
Glow-in-the-dark temporary tattoos sound like something you’d get on the boardwalk of the Jersey Shore, but a new type may help save the lives of skin cancer patients.
Typically, people with skin cancer have to wait a few months between being diagnosed via biopsy and the surgical treatment. Currently, doctors mark the spot for possible future surgery using carbon graphite, India ink or fluorescent dye. Each of these pigments can permanently discolor the skin, requiring laser or surgical removal once the skin cancer treatment is completed. They can also cause inflammation around the site of the mark.
But a new, more patient-friendly option is in the works: an ink that glows in certain lights and later totally disappears. In trials with mice, the invisible ink didn’t cause inflammation — another problem with the current methods. We’re all in favor of anything that makes the recovery process easier or less painful, so this is a promising development.
'90s revivals are all the rage right now. Think about it: First Fuller House was a huge Netflix success. That's So Raven is set for a reboot. Even original new shows like Netflix's hit Stranger Things are using super-old-school vibes, and we're all loving it — there's no denying that.
Now, the Today show is next on the list for a '90s revival. As Matt Lauer is set to celebrate his 20th anniversary on the show in early 2017, he'll be joined by some very special guests from the past. Two of the show's most loved co-hosts of all time are coming back to celebrate Lauer's special milestone: Katie Couric and Meredith Vieira.
Couric and Vieira will head back to their old stomping grounds early in the new year because Lauer's current co-host, Savannah Guthrie, is headed out for maternity leave. Both were huge parts of the Today show during the '90s, and we seriously can't wait to see the old gang back together.
Couric was on Today from 1989 to 2006, first as a special correspondent before she stepped into one of the anchor seats alongside Lauer in 1991. She's made occasional returns to the show since her 2006 departure, but she's never rejoined Lauer as a co-host until now. She starts the temporary new gig the first week of January.
Then, as soon as Couric wraps up her return to Today, Vieira will take over. She'll join Lauer as a temporary co-host the week of Jan. 9 as the show counts down to its 65th anniversary. Suffice it to say, it's going to be a big couple of weeks for the Today show.
I’ve always believed that it’s vital to help people in my community. Sometimes my community is my neighborhood, sometimes it's thousands of miles away, and other times it encompasses the entire earth. Taking action to help others is a value that I purposefully work to teach my children every day. With all the news about the humanitarian crisis in Aleppo, Syria, I find that I am having deep conversations with my three children about how to help. We’ve had these types of conversations many, many times in the past. Each time, with each new situation, we add another layer of understanding, compassion and action. Replying to a crisis with action is an important trait that I strive to teach my children because compassion without action is pointless.
A compassionate response can take many different forms. Action encompasses intellectual, emotional and physical action. Depending on the age of my children and the magnitude of a crisis situation, it can range from working to understand the situation and needs, to traveling to a location and working to help. All these actions are equally valuable. Learning to determine our response to new situations (we can’t always go to physically help in the situation) is also a skill I work to teach my children.
The situation in Aleppo is truly heartbreaking on so many levels. We’ve begun reading and talking about the factors that are contributing to the crisis. By understanding the historical, political, geo-political, cultural, religious and humanitarian issues involved in Aleppo, my family can better determine what actions we can take that will be helpful to the Syrians, and are realistic for our capabilities. While we may want to fly to Aleppo and bring every family home with us, that is just not realistic. But there are still many actions that we can do that will help. Our research and learning is valuable because understanding the Aleppo crisis not only helps now, but will also facilitate our understanding of future situations. I make sure that in our talks I point out issues that apply universally as we discuss how they apply specifically in Aleppo.
As a family we will be contacting the White House, our senators and congressional representatives. Sending that email and making that call can help shape our country’s policy. We will make financial donations to help Syrian refugees. Together we will research which agencies are helping in Syria and which ones will provide the most direct assistance. We will pray for the people of Aleppo and the situation daily. We will continue to follow this crisis in the future, so that we can continue to help as the crisis evolves.
The conversations we’re having about Aleppo, the process we’re working through to determine our responsive actions and then taking those actions are equally important as a framework to teach my children how to respond to every day crisis situations. I don’t use the term crisis lightly, but sometimes a crisis is as (unfortunately) common as a child being bullied in gym class, and sometimes a crisis is of the magnitude in Aleppo. I endeavor to teach my children to respond to both. So while we are taking action to respond directly, I’m also making certain to use this time to build the awareness, compassion and the ability to respond in my children so that they can stand up and take action in any crisis situation. Looking the other way is heartless and cowardly. Talk is cheap. Handwringing is pointless. I am working to nurture people who know how to and will intervene to help those in need. And I profoundly hope that through awareness, understanding and action, there will be many fewer crises in the future.
It's common to think heterosexual anal sex is only pleasurable for men. Many women shy away from the act after hearing not-so-pleasant war stories from friends, or seeing characters cringe when the topic comes up on TV.
And yet it seems that a ton of people are still doing it: A review conducted on anal in 2010 confirmed that up to 40 percent of people have tried it at least once. But for every female we've heard of attempting anal sex, I also know at least half a dozen women who refuse to ever do it because of some awful story or another. Typically it starts with a clueless boyfriend trying to shove it in, hoping that his partner will enjoy the experience — only to have the event in in trauma and pain. How's a girl ever supposed to give anal sex another try when this is practically rape?
I've been lucky enough to have the opposite encounters with anal sex. The first time I did it was with a steady boyfriend who happened to be experienced in getting women comfortable with butt stuff. I'd even have fun, he promised. A little lube, some coaching and a lot of talking about it later, I was no longer an anal sex virgin. And I even enjoyed it!
Since then, it's become something that I order off the menu once in a while. Although I do have to seriously be in the mood for it, I've had plenty of orgasms during anal sex. Recently, I even had a pretty powerful orgasm with anal-only stimulation (meaning, he wasn't touching any other part of my body).
This would all be perfectly fine behind closed doors, but I was pretty shocked to see an episode of The Mindy Project with some pretty negative (and unrealistic) things to say about anal sex. In "I Slipped," Mindy's boyfriend Danny tries the surprise approach and she is, of course, shocked. When she goes to her friend Peter for advice, he gives her a few tips on sex positions — before admitting that no woman ever will enjoy butt action. The show doesn't go on to correct this sexist remark, as Mindy has to take a heavy sedative later on to give it another try.
In light of this seriously damaging view, we decided to give you a few tips on how you actually can enjoy anal sex. And no, it doesn't make you a perv to own your sexuality.
1. Don't go straight for penetration. First and foremost, invest time in the foreplay. You should be highly aroused before going there, and having an orgasm (or three) beforehand never hurt either.
2. A glass of wine and romance can help. Don't just decide to do it and go for it. While you don't want to drink so much that you get too numb, a drink or two to relax may be just what you both need.
3. Try getting to know yourself first. Just as with any good sex, trying something yourself first may help you relax. Try gently massaging the outer opening of your anus next time you are masturbating.
4. Yes, you might feel really naughty. We all know that this is a bit of a taboo subject, and it's OK to feel a bit weird, dirty or uncomfortable doing it. It's natural, but it's also 100 percent natural to experiment.
5. It's a mess. Dark sheets help. Yes, we're talking about your butt and things can get a little messy. If you're shy or scared, use dark sheets to keep things from getting too weird looking later.
6. External stimulation at first. Just as when you tried it yourself, have your partner start by gently massaging the outside of the anus. Start slow and have him pause when you start to feel funny.
7. Be sure to stock up on lube. The most important part is to have good lube that you trust, and be sure to use it on both yourself and on him for maximum ease. Water-based lubricants work great.
8. The rules about using condoms. Yes, you must use a condom. The most important thing to keep in mind, though, is that you absolutely must switch condoms in between vaginal and anal penetration.
9. Relax, but yes it might hurt a bit. You're reading this because you don't want it to hurt, right? Well, I promise it'll be OK but yes, it might hurt a bit at the start. The key is to pause as you need to.
10. Get ready to take full control. This one is key, OK? You, ladies, are the ones that need to be in control. This is a different experience for you, and you need to gently guide him in, not the other way around.
Originally published October 2014. Updated December 2016.
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11. Double the pleasure stimulation. One of the surefire ways to enjoy the experience is to simultaneously be receiving, ahem, additional stimulation. Have him use his other hand to rub your clit or, once you're really into it, use a vibrator either on your clitoris or for vaginal penetration.
12. No need to get an enema or wax. You don't need to get an enema (ew) or get a wax back there. While you certainly can if you want to, it's not a must to enjoy the experience.
13. Make sure you practice your breathing. One of the most essential things I've learned in my, well, practice is that relaxed breathing is key. When your man is about to make the grand entrance, so to speak, inhale a deep breath and then slowly breathe out as he enters.
14. Start with a position you can relax in. Some people prefer doggy style, and knees turned in can open the hips and take pressure off the sphincter muscle. However, many women prefer to lie flat on their backs with a pillow under the butt to start. Try whatever way makes you feel most comfortable.
15. You can try starting with sex toys. An easy way to start is by having your man start with a little penetration, either during sex or cunnilingus, using a small or bullet vibrator (turned off, if that's easier). A finger works fine, too, and should be used to stretch you out slowly before the penis gets involved.
16. Be open to having an orgasm. Yes, an anal sex orgasm is possible! The female cul-de-sac (the sensitive area on the lower wall of the vagina) makes one possible without other stimulation. You can also have an orgasm if you are having anal sex and he is simultaneously stimulating your clitoris or vagina.
17. What it feels like when he starts. Look, there's no way to put this nicely. When he begins to slide in the head of his penis, you need to exhale, relax and push out as if you are using the restroom. The pressure from his penis and the different sensations will probably make it feel, at least at first, as if you indeed are using the restroom. Relax. You're not. Your nerve endings are tricking you. Have him stop just after the head is in, and give yourself a few minutes to get used to the discomfort and pain.
18. Eat fiber. You'll basically feel really full. With the note above, it's probably good to mention that there is a small chance that you will have leftover feces in your anal canal. Eating a fiber-rich diet always helps, but don't be afraid if this happens. It's natural, and yes, a bit gross.
19. It's OK to start really, really slow. Just after he is in, have him slowly (very slowly!) rock back and forth. Allow about five to 10 minutes for your muscles to start loosening up and for that weird "wait, am I pooping?" moment to subside.
20. Remember what this is really about. This isn't about you fulfilling some sort of fantasy. This is about your mutual enjoyment, so focus on yourself as much as on him. He needs to understand and be patient until you're comfortable to keep going.
21. Bad experiences happen because he's too eager. Another reason why you need to be in control? Simply going in fast or having vigorous anal sex is exactly why women get injured and have bad experiences. If he's not good at controlling himself, lie on the side so that you can stop him with your hands and he can have easier access to stimulating your clitoris.
22. Have him talk you through the discomfort. It's important to keep the lines of communication open throughout this process. Make sure he is constantly checking in on how you're feeling (especially at the start) and make sure you're honest about how you're feeling. If you've gone far enough for tonight, that's OK too. There's nothing wrong with not getting to the finish line just yet. You can try some of the early stuff, and pause. Remember, take it slow. We're not in a rush here.
23. You'll might need baby wipes. Just saying. Keep baby wipes nearby in case you do have an incident with leftover feces. Have them by the bed so that he can quickly grab one and clean up when he pulls out.
24. Let him be attentive and communicative. You should both be communicating before, during and after the act about your feelings on it. Be open and understanding to his needs, but demand the same.
25. In the end, it's OK if it's not for you. But yay if it is! Give yourself points for trying something new, and don't hesitate to try it a few times if the first time you just weren't feeling it. While it may not be my favorite thing on the menu, a good time once in a while can be pure magic.
Cutting the umbilical cord after delivery is both a literal and symbolic gesture, representing a child’s ability to breathe and exist on their own without being tethered to their mother. While the cut typically happens almost immediately after birth, U.S. obstetricians are now recommending to wait at least 30 to 60 seconds.
This makes sense when you think about it. During the gestation process, the fetus breathes via the placenta, taking in oxygen-rich fluid. Upon delivery, the baby’s lungs make the switch from processing liquid to inhaling air. Giving the child an extra minute to make the adjustment ensures that she doesn’t miss any extra oxygen to supplement early breaths.
Prior to the 1960s, it was common for doctors to wait at least five minutes before cutting the umbilical cord, although it’s unclear why this was the standard.
New research has shown that premature babies in particular benefit from prolonged access to umbilical cord blood, which translates to a lower risk of transfusions, anemia and bleeding in the brain. But full-term babies can also benefit, lowering the risk of an iron deficiency that can delay cognitive development. In fact, one study found that waiting three minutes before cutting the cord resulted in slightly better early brain development.
Regardless of the time between delivery and cord cutting, it shouldn’t interfere with the mother holding her baby. “While the baby's nice and warm on your skin, we'll take our time and then clamp," the National Institutes of Health’s Dr. Tonse Raju told the Associated Press.
Of course, doctors will not put off cutting the cord if the baby is having problems breathing or needs emergency care. Also, parents who wish to save and store their child’s cord blood for potential future medical use should know that delayed cutting means less blood for banking. Yet again, this highlights the need for patients and parents to be well-informed about the possible risks and benefits of both procedures so they can make the most effective decisions.
You may not have heard of sufganiyot, but you most definitely have had them: They’re simply jelly doughnuts. Hanukkah is the celebration of a miracle that occurred during the rededication of a temple after a Jewish revolt against their ancient Greek persecutors when a single night's supply of oil lasted eight days. Thus, eight nights of celebrating by eating fried food. You can — nay, you must — eat doughnuts every day. It’s the law.
Most of us get our doughnuts from a store and have never attempted making them in our own homes. But the holidays are a special time when we are all compelled to DIY everything with varying degrees of success. Doughnuts and sufganiyot can be especially intimidating, with their hot oil and tricky timing and risk of third-degree burns. If you’re a true beginner, here are some hacks to use this year to get you through the holiday.
Let’s get deep here — what is a doughnut, anyway? Can any of us truly qualify it? Not all doughnuts have holes. Churros are Mexican doughnuts, and they’re made in straight lines. People are making baked doughnuts, which are a hock of crap because it’s cake baked in a doughnut-shaped pan so they should call it “little circle cakes that are lying to you.”
The only thing experts can agree on (experts meaning me and all my friends in the Secret Pastry Chef Club): Doughnuts must be fried. If all that’s required is hot oil, then theoretically, you can be frying any sort of dough. That means you don’t even have to make your own and have to panic about yeast or rising or all the technical mumbo-jumbo that comes along with a sufganiyot-making session.
Grab yourself a can of buttermilk biscuits and fry those. Or cinnamon rolls. You can also make fake Cronuts by taking a bunch of those extra-flaky biscuits, stacking them on top of each other, smooshing them down, cutting a hole in the middle, and deep-frying 'til puffed and golden.
Really, really cheat by flash-frying store-bought doughnuts
Maybe you’re a beginner and don’t trust yourself to know when the sufganiyot are done. Maybe you have a phobia of raw dough. There are stranger things.
Store-bought doughnuts are fine, but perhaps you had your heart set on an entirely homemade Hanukkah — or at least creating the illusion of one. This is how you pull it off: Flash-fry already made doughnuts. Make sure the ones you buy are completely and utterly plain — no glaze, no powdered sugar coating, nothing. Toss them in a bit of flour (or potato starch if you want to make them extra-addictive), shake off the excess, then fry for about a minute until the coating has disappeared and the doughnut is crisped. Then you can proceed in topping them with glazes or flavored sugars or just serve piping hot as the best doughnuts are.
Want to get a little crazier? Once floured, dip the doughnuts in egg, then dredge in your favorite cereal that’s been pulverized into coarse crumbs. May we recommend Capt’n Crunch? It’s crazy delicious, and we’ve heard rumors that the Capt'n is, in fact, Jewish.
What I love about jelly doughnuts is that even though I obviously know it’s filled, when you reach the jelly, it’s a big surprise. Will it be raspberry or some other lesser flavor? Will it be gushing out like lava from a volcano or will it be a lousy half-teaspoon like a certain major doughnut chain doles out because they’re bastard people who don’t understand proportions? It gives me the same sort of excitement as opening a gift — overwhelmed with anticipation and excitement as to what’s inside. It’s the little things, people.
I’m sure you know you’re not strictly bound to jelly even though it’s traditional. Yet as crazy as it sounds, I’ve met so many people who have had kitchen disasters while attempting to fill sufganiyot with Nutella, peanut butter or anything else people like to eat shamefully from the jar after the kids go to bed.
Why? Because they’re so excited, they’re skipping over the common-sense aspect, which is noticing the fact that these things are way too dense to fill doughnuts with. Not only will they make a mess while filling, but they are also too heavy when paired with the airiness of a perfectly fried doughnut.
The solution has been staring at you the entire time at the doughnut shop, and you will probably kick yourself for not figuring it out: mix these things with pudding. That’s all. Pudding is stable enough that it will not leak out, which is what will happen if you attempt to thin these things out with milk or water.
Pudding also opens your doughnuts to a world of possibilities: Mix peanut butter with chocolate pudding, Nutella with butterscotch, cookie butter with cheesecake.
Don’t forget the outsides
Traditionally sufganiyot are rolled in sugar straight out of the fryer, but this is a missed opportunity to take them to the next level. Don’t just rely on the fillings to give them flavor — dress the sugar up with mix-ins to complement what’s inside.
Run a tablespoon your favorite tea through a coffee grinder with about half a cup of sugar — chai pairs well with a vanilla custard filling, Earl Grey with a marmalade doughnut. Try spices that aren’t cinnamon, like ginger to go with a strawberry jam or cardamom with a filling of apple butter pudding.
Want to try your hand at replicating one of those Technicolor gourmet doughnuts you’ve seen on Instagram? Swap out the milk or water in your basic powdered sugar glaze recipe with a juice concentrate or another highly flavorful liquid (yes, booze is in play here).
You’ve come this far, so let’s get fancy
If you’re having company and are the crafty type, why not make a Hanukkah-themed croquembouche? If you’ve never heard of one, they are a très étourdissant dessert-slash-centerpiece of cream puffs dipped in caramel and built into a conical tower.
croquembouche
croquembouche
Make your sufganiyot into miniatures, squirt in a bit of filling with a squeeze bottle, attach to a styrofoam base from a craft store, then decorate with berries, flowers or whatever else makes you squee.
Just a note: Though you’ll find more than a few recipes for doughnut hole croquembouche online, most don’t use filled sufganiyot, which are a bit heavier than normal doughnut holes. This means you’ll need something a bit stronger than flimsy toothpicks to hold them on — either use thick decorative toothpicks or bamboo skewers that have been cut down to double the length of your doughnuts.
Also, attach the pick to the base — not the sufganiyot — to make sure you don’t squirt jelly everywhere while arranging them. If the pick is a bit too long and ends up sticking out a bit, cover it up with some garnish, like a cranberry or sprig of mint.
And there you have it — sufganiyot as easy or as challenging as you want to make them.
Carey was sued by the mother of his late girlfriend in December of last year, but now, he's asking a judge to drop at least part of the suit: the part that claims he gave Cathriona White multiple sexually transmitted diseases while they were dating, which the plaintiff claims makes him responsible for her death.
According to court documents, Carrey says the STD debacle is irrelevant to the rest of the case, which he calls a "shakedown for a multi-million dollar payday," Page Six reports.
White died last year at age 30 when she took a fatal mixture of pills, some of which, her mother alleges, were provided to her by Carrey. Carrey and White had been dating off and on for about three years at the time. Carrey claims that White was completely estranged from her mother at the time of her death and that she considered Carrey her only family.
"White left Carrey two suicide notes speaking lovingly to him, requesting his forgiveness for ending her own life, describing him, and him alone, as her 'family,'" court papers say.
However, White's mother is saying Carrey is responsible for her daughter's death, and she claims that the alleged STDs are part of the reason. While Carrey admits that he did give sexually transmitted diseases to White, he says it happened two years before her death, making the matter irrelevant to the lawsuit surrounding her suicide.
Meanwhile, Carrey has insisted all along that White's family has been using her death to try to make a profit.
My daughter has grandparents on three continents and cousins in more states than I care to count. Although we always miss our far-flung family, the desire to be connected is really heightened during the holidays.
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, another holiday or nothing at all, this time of year is all about gathering with family and letting light and laughter fill the dark days. When that isn’t possible, it can put a damper on the holiday spirit.
While nothing is the same as being able to hug our loved ones in person, over the years my family has developed some strategies to stay connected during the holidays and minimize stress.
These days, video chat options are everywhere. Apple devices have FaceTime, Skype can be used anywhere and even Facebook has a video chat option. Getting to see and hear your loved ones in real time almost makes it feel as if you’re in the same room. Almost.
Just like in real life, don’t stress about things being perfect. Your kids may not want to talk to the people behind the screen or they may be over-excited and make adult conversations difficult. Either way, your loved ones will enjoy seeing a piece of your family life, chaos and all.
But don't be afraid to set boundaries
I’m not sure who loves video chat more: my 2-year-old or her grandparents. During a normal week, we have a chatting routine. We talk to my mom in the mornings, my father-in-law in the evenings and my mother-in-law on Saturdays.
During the holidays, however, everyone wants to talk to my daughter at prime times like just before she goes to sleep on Christmas Eve or right when she's opening presents. This year, we’re clear with everyone that we can’t video chat at those busy times — we want to focus on our daughter. Of course, we’ll be sure to take plenty of picture and videos, which everyone can enjoy afterward.
Which leads to….
Be present with whomever you're with
This year will be my mom’s first Christmas away from home, and people have already started asking how I’m feeling about that. While it’s true I’ll miss my mom this Christmas, it’s also true that I have lots of friends and family who will work extra hard to make my holiday magical. I don’t want to make them feel less special, so I’m sure to say that while I'll miss her, I feel lucky to spend time with people I love.
Establish shared traditions
Whether it's baking cookies, setting up the tree or watching The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, you probably have beloved traditions that you share with far-away family. Although it may not be possible to do these activities together, you can still share the experience by doing them on the same day. Just knowing that you’re both doing something at the same time fosters a sweet connection. If the situation fits, you can incorporate video chat or you can just remember an important detail or two to tell them afterward.
Some traditions just aren’t the same when that special someone is missing. That’s OK! If watching White Christmas makes you miss your dad, skip the sadness and pick a movie that your children will enjoy year after year. Sometimes we all need a new twist.
Mail the present
Each year, I mail Christmas presents to Australia, and my in-laws mail presents here. Each time, I get to the post office and cringe at how expensive it is to mail a package internationally, but there is something wonderful about packing up a present, wrapping it with love and knowing it will bring a bit of Christmas cheer to your loved one. If you’re looking to save money, a card is almost as good as a present and you can mail a card anywhere in the world for $1. If you’d like to save and still send a goody, ship it directly to your loved one. Many times, online retailers will gift-wrap and even include a personalized message.
Talk about the holiday spirit
Talk to your kids about the holiday spirit that binds people this time of year no matter how far apart they are. You can tweak this message to fit your family’s beliefs, but knowing that there is a common focus connecting them to far-away family can be a great comfort for kids and adults alike.
There's a chance a house full of crumpled-up wrapping paper and shattered ornaments will leave you too exhausted to cook — but never fear. These 14 restaurants open on Christmas Day will help make this holiday the best yet.
Sure, it's lovely to have your family over for a big holiday meal, but sometimes treating yourself to a night out is the best Christmas gift of all.
Or, if you don't celebrate Christmas and you're looking for somewhere — anywhere — to grab a bite on Dec. 25, these restaurants are here for you too.
1. Applebee's
Some Applebee's restaurants will be open on Christmas Day, but hours vary by location. Call your local restaurant to find out if it's open.
2. Boston Market
Some Boston Market locations are open on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve, offering special holiday meal options along with their standard fare. They also offer lots of heat-and-serve holiday food that feed four to 12 people, with options like roasted turkey and spiral ham, and also have a catering option. Check your local Boston Market for holiday hours.
Most Denny's restaurants will be open on Christmas. The regular menu will be available along with seasonal specials like Holiday Turkey & Dressing Dinner, Holiday Harvest Skillet and Pumpkin Pecan Pie Pancake Breakfast.
They are also offering a Christmas feast that includes over two pounds of turkey, more than two pounds of ham, and all the fixings — plus dessert — for $90. Contact your local restaurant to order ahead by Thursday, Dec. 22.
If you find yourself with a hankering for pancakes on Christmas, IHOP will be your jam. Almost all IHOPs are open Christmas Day, but call ahead to check local hours.
9. McCormick & Schmick's
McCormick & Schmick's will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Treat yourself to seafood, steak or both. Check your local restaurant for holiday hours.
10. Old Country Buffet
Select Old Country Buffet restaurants will be open on Christmas. Contact your local restaurant to verify their hours.
Like HomeTown Buffet, Old Country Buffet are also offering a Christmas feast for $90. Contact your local restaurant to order ahead by Thursday, Dec. 22.
11. Ruth's Chris
Select Ruth's Chris Steak House locations will be open on Christmas Day. The regular menu will be available — why not treat yourself to steak and lobster?
12. Smith & Wollensky
Smith & Wollensky will be serving up its Winter Menu steaks and seafood on Christmas Day along with holiday wines by the glass and bottle.
13. Starbucks
Some Starbucks locations will be open on Christmas to help fuel you through a day of opening presents and dealing with family — though most will be closed by 4 p.m.. Check locations and hours here.
14. Waffle House
For the 61st year in a row, all Waffle House locations will be open 24 hours on Christmas Day. Treat yourself to some coffee and waffles, and appreciate that you won't be cleaning up after a meal with your relatives.
TMZ reports that Trump was settling in for her flight when a belligerent passenger started jeering her and her kids. It was a Thursday morning flight out of JFK on JetBlue, the site reports, and Trump was traveling with her husband, her kids and some of her cousins, all in coach.
Eyewitnesses say the man who went after her had a child in his arms and started screaming, "Your father is ruining the country," before the flight took off.
The man continued, "Why is she on our flight? She should be flying private."
Other witnesses to the situation told TMZ that Trump did her best to ignore the man and tried to use crayons to distract her kids from the screaming. It wasn't long before JetBlue employees escorted the man off the flight, as he was screaming, "You're kicking me off for expressing my opinion?"
Later in the day, JetBlue released a statement about the incident, writing, "The decision to remove a customer from a flight is not taken lightly. If the crew determines that a customer is causing conflict on the aircraft, the customer will be asked to deplane, especially if the crew feels the situation runs the risk of escalation during flight. Our team worked to re-accommodate the party on the next available flight."
TMZ also uncovered that the man's husband had tweeted before the incident happened, writing, "Ivanka and Jared at JFK T5, flying commercial. My husband chasing them down to harass them."
Pine has been loved as a scent for decades and used as a deodorizer to rid the world of many cringeworthy smells. It's latest use, though, might be its best one yet — especially if you live in a house with a cat.
This post is sponsored advertising content by the maker of Feline Pine and SheKnows Media.
When you start dating someone, two of the last words you want to hear in relation to yourself are "gross or disgusting." Last fall I went camping with a guy I was seeing at the time, and we ate s’mores. Marshmallow goo inevitably got everywhere: on my hands, my face. He crouched down next to me to stoke the fire, and I leaned over, touching my head to his. This was strategic on my part: I wasn’t sure my face was yet clean of sticky residue, but I was confident there was none on the top of my head. He turned toward me, and I sat up.
“Gross,” he replied. I think he was kidding, but I’m not sure — he didn’t lean in for a second try.
Disgust might be the antithesis of desire, but I think it’s fear that leads us to believe others are seeking a pristine version of a person. Boogers, bad breath, body odor, dandruff, flaky skin, stuff in your teeth, not to mention unwashed dishes, dirty counters — being a human provides a plethora of possibilities of grossness. And yes, we all have to take care of ourselves and our homes. But I think we hold ourselves to superhuman standards when we either don’t trust that others will understand or when we value the opinion of people who should be more understanding and aren’t.
I do not keep an immaculate apartment, and I have an amazingly cuddly but sometimes smelly dog. I have cellulite and can fart with the best of them. In other words, I’m not a Stepford wife, and my best relationships are those where I feel so accepted by the other person that I lose the fear of being gross.
Think about those you feel closest to — do you blush when you belch? Can you say whatever’s on your mind or pick a wedgie around them? I mean, we all have things we choose to only do by ourselves behind closed doors, but with our best friends or other healthy long-term relationships, we get to be ourselves without fear of judgment — we already know we’re loved as we are – wedgies and all.
But what about desire? Can we be fully ourselves and still sexy? I’ve various read Cosmo-style articles regarding intimate (seemingly gross) habits and keeping romance alive that advised to never pop pimples, pee with the door open, or cut your toenails in front of your significant other. Some feel strongly that women need to maintain an element of mystery in order to protect the flame of passion in their relationship. I recognize there’s a difference between letting it all hang out and being afraid of being yourself. Maybe it’s a thin line, and maybe it’s a gift you give someone — small ways you try to present them with the best version of yourself. Can this be an act of love? If protecting your partner from some of your more unsavory actions feels right to you, then go for it.
But I love it when I get to the point with someone where I don’t have to close the door and can keep the discussion going when I’m taking a piss. Because I feel accepted, because I feel close to them. When I can go from the toilet to the bedroom, and he or she still wants me, my comfort level soars. (I do, however, close the door for #2 . . . that’s my line.)
A friend often wears a necklace in the shape of a pig. I asked her why one day. She explained that it’s a reminder to not be fear being disgusting and to embrace it. She said she feels the most accepted and cam embrace the most pleasure when she feels repulsive and still wanted: grimy, covered in body fluids, unkempt and unclean. It felt like an epiphany — that embarrassment could be a choice!
Sex can be a litmus test for intimacy. It can inform you if you’re really as comfortable with another person as you thought you were. It can also act as a catalyst, creating new layers of closeness. I’ve realized that I shouldn’t sleep with someone until I already feel accepted by them. Sometimes this just seems to take a night (though it might be false acceptance/false intimacy) and sometimes it takes longer. Acceptance isn’t a location on a map that I simply arrive at, but the point is to slow down and let my heart tell me when it feels safe.
The marshmallow incident was so minor that I doubt M even remembers it, yet it seemed indicative of a lot more. I was worried didn’t completely accept me as I was. The fear never completely went away the whole time we were dating (another couple of months).
I accept some responsibility here: the first person who needs to believe that I’m good the way I am is me. But I also believe that it’s better to date those I feel comfortable around and to read the signs. Are they OK with my prickly legs? Do I feel good about myself around them? Feeling accepted leads to feeling sexy and, in my experience, it leads to more sexy times.
Whether you have a loved one who is 65 and totally obsessed with DC Comics or are shopping for a kindergartner who can't get enough of Guardians of the Galaxy, there's a gift on this list that will be sure to make this year their best Christmas ever.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase Two DVD collection on Blu-ray includes Iron Man 3, Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron and Ant-Man. Perfect for the Marvel fans on your list. (Amazon, $175)
And if the DC Visual History book doesn't satisfy, these BatmanDC bombshells posters should do the trick. The vintage-inspired superheroine pinups are sure to get any fan's attention. (Entertainment Earth, $30)
5. Avengers sunshield
Perfect for Avengers fans, this Avengers sunshield will keep dashboards cool in style. (Walmart, $12)
6. Batman print
This dark and brooding Batman print is affordable and will look good on any wall. (Etsy, $5)
This adorable supper hero apron pulls double duty as a gift for him and her — just imagine how cute you'll look wearing this as you mind the stove or tend the grill. (Shop PBS, $25)
8. Captain America throw pillow
Add a splash of superhero whimsy to your living room with this adorable Captain America throw pillow. (Amazon, $4)
9. Supernova T-shirt
This adorable supernova T-shirt is available in sizes for both men and women. (Threadless, $20)
11. The Watchmen collector's edition: Ultimate cut Blu-ray and graphic novel
Who watches the Watchmen? Superhero fans, of course. This Watchmen collector's edition includes both the graphic novel and the film on Blu-ray. (Amazon, $32)
Everyone wants to feel a little more like Wonder Woman sometimes and this cute robe will help your favorite heroine do just that. (Bed Bath & Beyond, $20)
This collection of short stories is great for busy parents with little superhero fans. Each of the 5-Minute Marvel Stories can actually be read in five minutes, perfect for adventure-filled days when time is tight. (Amazon, $10)
30. Batman Flipeez hat
Run, don't walk, to your computer and buy this awesome Batman Flipeez hat for the little Batman fan in your life. (Amazon, $14)
31. Custom superhero mobile
This adorable handmade superhero mobile is custom-made with the superheroes of your choice. (Etsy, $95)
Snow is fun for elves, but what if friends are involved? Sometimes, you just have to get into a great, old-fashioned snowball fight. Photographer Nelly Cole captured this moment when a Toy Story hero battled it out with her family's Elf on the Shelf.
When your elf is tired of the cold snow play, bring it indoors and craft some beautiful snowflakes from paper — no mittens necessary. Photographer Shannon Hilton caught her elf snipping some snowflakes with scissors and making a bit of a mess in the process.
Your man may not spend tons of time grooming in front of the mirror, but the Elf on the Shelf? He has a reputation to uphold. This elf was caught in the act of shaving by LeAna of A Small Snippet, and he looks pretty proud of himself for his good grooming habits.
Whether your elf is making his big debut this holiday season or he's been around the block a few times, the anticipation of his arrival is a special event. LeAna of A Small Snippet captured this moment of arrival as her kids eagerly waited for her to take their elf from his box. Too late for this one this year, but tuck it away for the 2017 holiday season.
Sure, having a spa day seems like something the ladies love, but photographer Shannon Hilton caught her family elf in full-on spa mode — and enjoying every minute. Apparently, there's a lot of pampering that your family elf expects during his December visit.
Just when you thought Elf on the Shelf was all about the glam and the pampering, he goes and gets himself into a touchy situation in the bathroom. Tied up in toilet paper? That's how Natalie of NatalMe found her elf one day. And he wasn't naming names, either. We highly suspect Buzz Lightyear.
Your Elf on the Shelf is moving in and taking over for a whole month. Shouldn't he make himself useful and get a real job? LeAna of A Small Snippet discovered her elf had taken on the role of dentist for the dolls in the house. She became highly suspicious when he only seemed to examine the Barbie dolls.
Your Elf on the Shelf will have a lot of time on his hands while the kids are busy with school, friends and holiday happenings. We were surprised to learn that Ollie, the elf belonging to Angie of The Arthur Clan, is an avid reader. She caught him in the act!
If your elf is staying for a whole month, can't you expect him to teach the others a thing or two? LeAna of A Small Snippet interrupted her elf playing teacher with some of the other household friends, and she secretly wondered if he might be willing to tutor algebra when the time comes.
Sometimes, your friends lead you down the wrong path. All it takes is a casual mention of "Wouldn't it be fun?" and pretty soon, you are all covered in stickers. Nobody would be the wiser if Shannon Hilton hadn't happened upon this scene and snapped a photo.
This isn't a very well-known fact, but the Elf on the Shelf is quite the player of card games. If he engages you in a game of poker or blackjack, you had best beware — most of his friends leave the table empty-handed, as Shannon Hilton documented in this photo.
When your Elf on the Shelf loses at cards — it's not a pretty scene. Between Buzz Lightyear demanding to be paid and Rapunzel batting her eyes to win a hand, your elf is bound to lose a game or two. LeAna of A Small Snippet caught her family's elf red-handed when he tried to "borrow" some change from Dad.
There are times when the simplest activities bring us the biggest smiles. Who says you have to be human to enjoy a swing? When she set up a swing in the hallway one evening, LeAna of A Small Snippet found out that her family's elf loves to swing — in fact, she had a hard time getting him to come down. And perched on his lap is a "Good morning!" message for the kids in the house.
Think elves don't get hungry? Think again. Most households that have a family Elf on the Shelf experience a significant decline in the amount of snacks that are available for the family members once the elf comes home for the holidays. Natalie of NatalMe caught her elf waist-deep in the M&M's bag.
Who doesn't love chips? Apparently, the elf in Natalie's house not only likes chips, but he doesn't want to share them with anyone. She happened to catch him in the act of eating all the chips — and family members weren't too happy about it.
Nothing says Christmas better than a box full of candy canes. Whether you hang them on your Christmas tree or hand them out as treats, candy canes are a staple of the holiday season. Angie of The Arthur Clan caught her family's elf red-handed as he tore into the candy canes and attempted to eat them all.
When Angie of The Arthur Clan caught her family's elf hiding in the chip bag, she put a stop to that. What did he do then? He headed headfirst into the candy jar — and proceeded to get himself stuck. Luckily, Angie was there to capture the moment on film, or the kids might not have believed her.
Elves are known for being mischievous — and your family's elf will be no exception. Natalie of NatalMe was shocked to open the kitchen cabinet one morning and find her family's elf hiding under a drinking glass, ready to surprise the very first person he saw. Lucky for Natalie, she isn't easily spooked.
Elves can't be all about eating. When there is downtime during the night, the Elf on the Shelf in your home likes to liven things up a bit with some fun and games. This all-for-fun sack race that Smarty the Elf organized shows that it isn't just your elf who likes to play.
You may think your elf sleeps while you are sleeping — but you would be wrong. Many elves have an internal longing for belonging to the traveling circus, and they are always honing their skills just in case. Natalie of NatalMe was shocked to discover her family's elf engaging in a bit of tightrope daring.
Sometimes, the Elf on the Shelf in your house might push his boundaries with the resident Lilliputians a wee bit too far. When Smarty the Elf challenged the resident LEGO men to one Uno game too many, he paid the price. We just hope they called a truce before New Year's Eve.
Need a little extra help during the holidays? We all could use a hand or two. When Smarty the Elf sets up shop under the tree at Amy Stossel's house, you never know what kind of "help" he will offer. I wouldn't trust him with anything in the kitchen — just in case.
Is the elf in your house daring and athletic? With the 2018 Winter Olympics just around the corner, this Elf-on-the-Shelf season promises to be rich with sporting events. Smarty the Elf is taking his athletic prowess to a new level as he attempts the world record for the 12-yard downhill race.
Perhaps he's trying to drop a subtle hint to Daddy that it needed to be done? Being the little elf that he is, he just couldn’t quite make it to the roof!
Ah, the holiday season is ending. All good things — including the antics of those silly elves — must come to an end. Audrey of Sweet Cheeks Tasty Treats has more than one holiday elf, so the goodbyes are especially hard! She has an entire post about preparing for your elf to depart until next holiday season. Here, her main elf has his bags packed and is waiting for his ride.
Even though Jay Z is the owner of the Roc-A-Fella record label, his wife apparently isn't allowed to use its logo. At least, that's what the graphic designer who created it, Dwayne Walker, thinks. He just filed a lawsuit against Bey because in her 2013 video for "Drunk In Love," the logo can be seen for, like, one second on a chain around Jay Z's neck. The weird thing is that even though it's Jay who's wearing the logo in the video, he's not named in Walker's lawsuit. According to court papers, even though the logo is only briefly visible, Walker considers that "prominently displayed," and he wants Bey to either take down the video or pay him for use of the logo.
Walker's chances at winning this thing don't look great, though, since he already sued Jay Z for basically the same thing and that case got tossed out. Walker was seeking $7 million from Jay Z for copyright infringement, but a judge dismissed the case in September after unearthing a 20-year-old contract that Walker signed saying he wasn't entitled to royalties.
Regardless of how this goes for Bey and Jay, they have a big year ahead of them. Beyoncé is already rumored to be one of the 2017 headliners at Coachella alongside Kendrick Lamar. If the rumors are true, it'll be her first time performing at the festival. Considering that big news, something tells us she's not letting this lawsuit get her down.
It seems like every updo tutorial or inspo photo you see on the internet is done by someone with Rapunzel-length hair and 20 years of experience. Sure, we’d also love to have an extra hour each day to spend in front of the mirror practicing the ultimate updo, but this is real life, and thanks to your kids, your job, your ultimate need for sleep…that just ain’t gonna happen.
But never fear, because rather than leave you and your short hair to your own devices, we rounded up our favorite short-hair updos that anyone can do, so you don’t need to result to your faithful ol’ blow out, curled thing that you’ve worn for approximately ten holidays. Scroll down to see our favorites, and then try them out on yourself!
Soft and Messy Updo
Face-framing pieces keep this boho-inspired updo looking soft and pretty.
Soft and Messy Updo
Soft and Messy Updo
French-Braided Buns
A zig-zagged part, smoothing gel, and two French braids turn short, natural hair into a sleek, long-looking updo.
French-Braided Buns
French-Braided Buns
Triple-Knotted Updo
If you can twist and pin a bun, you can easily do this quick little updo.
Triple-Knotted Updo
Triple-Knotted Updo
Super-Sleek Bun
We’re all about rockin’ your natural hair, but if you’re looking for a smoother updo, try this smooth, deep-parted bun.
Super-Sleek Bun
Super-Sleek Bun
Voluminous Curls
A bunch of curls and a few strategically placed bobby-pins make this fancy-looking updo surprisingly easy.
My sister-in-law studied infant massage when my twins Sadie and Patrick were just about 6 months old. After weeks of classes, Amie asked me to help out on the last requirement for her certification. She had to offer a demo class for five mommies and went straight to the most recently pregnant person she knew (yours truly) for guinea pig recommendations. I agreed immediately and lined up four other mommas for the class (and even a few alternates. I quickly discovered infant massage is NOT cheap and this demo situation was a legit score).
We scheduled our first session for the next week. My girlfriend with impeccable taste and a cleaning woman offered up her living room. Our first class started much like the first day of high school, with an ice breaker. Amie asked us to introduce ourselves, introduce our babies and describe our “perfect day.”
A perfect day.
My mind immediately left the Pottery Barned-to-perfection space and headed for the land of pure imagination.
I pictured myself sitting outside in the sunshine, waiting for the ferry to NYC, toting just a yoga mat, drinking a cup of Rook Coffee‘s Costa Rica blend, reading Gabrielle Bernstein‘s newest book. I imagined a reminder flashing on across my cell phone, highlighting the facial and massage I’d be enjoying at the spa. I saw myself booking a private meditation session with Elena Brower and then, just because it was all getting really indulgent, I imagined she’d invite me over for tea and talks about all the gorgeous things I see on her Instagram account (you know, all the other times I pretend we are friends).
Before I had a chance to fantasize dinner at Momofuko with my college girlfriends (just kidding, I did ginger scallion noodles and sake bombs), one mommy broke the ice and my heart just a little bit.
“Hi everyone! My name is Jess and this little guy is Tyler. Tyler just turned five months old and he is such a big boy! On our dream day, daddy would stay home from work so we could all go to the beach and play in the sand. Afterwards we would go for ice cream and maybe Tyler would get to try a bite!”
Imagine squeals of delight, smiles and loving nods, followed by equally dreamy days like:
“Park with our puppies for a family picnic!”
“Boardwalk for french fries and her first ride the train!”
“The farmers market for fresh veggies and then home to cook together as a family!”
Or at least, imagine the other adults doing that. Then imagine me, completely panic stricken because clearly my answer was not in any way, shape or form in line with everyone else’s dream day.
Thank God and everything holy that I got to hear all that before my turn. I mumbled something that sounded like “relaxing at home with a good movie” before faking a blowout (diaper, not hair – though now that I’m thinking about blowouts, please add that to my dream day) and dashing for the bathroom.
Were they kidding? This was a room full of first time moms who until very recently enjoyed things like happy hour, manicures, shopping for pants with buttons and taking showers alone (the Holy Grail of motherhood).
Did having a baby really turn them into such amazingly selfless people, with dream days wholly dedicated to the same bundle of tears and poop (and love) that consumed every other day?
My gut says no. I don’t mean that harshly. In fact, I do believe that every mom dreams of picture perfect family days. That being said, I think we spend equal – if not more – time dreaming about a few hours of sweet release. To hit the pause button on 24/7 momming. To maybe even hit rewind, Michael J. Fox style, and head to a different point in time, when we weren’t responsible for other human lives.
I love my girlfriends for loving their kids, and loving to spend time with their kids. I feel compelled to say “I love mine too” – and I do! – but I feel equally compelled to say I don't want to spend every waking minute with them. I had a good run for 30 years, taking care of just me. It was super easy and, looking back, I can see just how much I took it for granted.
If I got my dream day, my free day, I would savor every second. I’d bow down to the gods of indulgence, spontaneity and saying “yes” to things like martinis on a Tuesday.
Four years after that infant massage class, I’m finally at peace with what I really wanted to say. I wonder what would have happened if I had the guts.
Maybe a collective sigh of relief? Because being a mom is hard. It’s OK to say we need a break and it’s even more OK to enjoy that break with every fiber of our being when we get one.
In an interview with Rolling Stone as their January 2017 cover girl, Stone explained, "I hesitate to make it about being a woman, but there have been times when I’ve improvised, they’ve laughed at my joke and then given it to my male co-star. Given my joke away. Or it’s been me saying, 'I really don’t think this line is gonna work,' and being told, 'Just say it, just say it, if it doesn’t work we’ll cut it out' — and they didn’t cut it out, and it really didn’t work!"
She also said her opinions on set weren't always welcome.
"There are times in the past, making a movie, when I’ve been told that I’m hindering the process by bringing up an opinion or an idea," Stone said.
Given that Stone is one of the most charming and hilarious ladies in Hollywood, it's pretty infuriating to think that someone, once upon a time, thought they had the right to stifle her personality, especially in an artistic environment like filmmaking.
Of course, now that she has reached a point of recognition in her career, Stone's opinions are welcomed. She's been nominated for three Golden Globes and one Oscar and will probably have some more under her belt this year with her performance in La La Land opposite Ryan Gosling.
But Stone said she tries not to focus on the award shows this year, "I’m trying not to think about that. I just focus on what I’ve got to do at any one moment, and don’t necessarily think about where it’s all leading."
Do you think Emma Stone deserves an Oscar for her La La Land performance?
