The former couple are no strangers to airing their dirty laundry on social media, and many believe that's exactly what Mill has been doing in the weeks following his breakup from Minaj, because his Instagram is filled with cryptic messages and photos of his lifestyle. And, apparently Minaj has been taking notice, with a source telling Hollywood Life that she's worried that Mill may be taking the break up badly.
"Nicki's really worried about Meek because since the split he's been doing nothing but turning up and partying in the club with his boys, and posting these belligerent videos on social media," the source told the publication. "Meek isn't even a drinker like that and Nicki fears that if he keeps this up he's going to do something stupid."
The former couple are said to have parted ways over Minaj's birthday weekend, and since then Mill has posted several apparent disses on social media, including a post with the caption, "I'm too picky now" and a meme about letting negatives develop.
Meek Mill Instagram
Meek Mill Instagram
Meek Mill Instagram 2
Meek Mill Instagram 2
Whether his posts are directed at Minaj, we can't be sure, but that does seem to be the general consensus among fans who have been commenting on the posts and asking Mill whether he's shading his ex-girlfriend.
As for Minaj, she's reportedly handling the split much better, and that's partially thanks to Drake.
"Nicki's still very emotional during this break-up," the source revealed, adding, "She's been with Meek through hell and back and still loves him but right now Drake is the only man who she trusts and finds comfort in."
Do you think Meek Mill is lashing out at Nicki Minaj on social media? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
An exciting announcement was made in the first hours of 2017, and it involves one of your favorite reality TV stars. Lauren Conrad announced she was pregnant on Instagram on Jan. 1, and she did it in the cutest way possible. The picture is simply a photo of her sonogram in front of a pretty on-brand rustic wooden wall. Interestingly, you can just make out the outline of what will surely be one of the cutest babies of 2017. It would appear that Conrad is already a few weeks along, so we may get to meet Baby Conrad by the end of the summer.
It's an exciting time for Conrad and husband William Tell; this is their first child. The pair has enjoyed an extended honeymoon period following their September 2014 nuptials. Conrad has reportedly wanted to focus on building her brand, working on her fashion line and creating a strong foundation in her marriage before considering motherhood. Conrad once noted about married life, "My favorite thing about being married is knowing that I have a partner in life that I get to do so many wonderful things with. Dreaming of the things we will do 20 years from now is so fun."
Lauren Conrad Pregnancy Insta
Lauren Conrad Pregnancy Insta
Now, it seems that 20 years down the road, Conrad and Tell will be well-seasoned parents and enjoying family life. I mean, how precious is that? Happily, the announcement also all but confirms that Conrad will be the sweetest mother in 2017 (and maybe of all time).
Longtime fans of The Hills will note that Conrad isn't the first Hills alum to become a mother: both Kristin Cavallari and Audrina Patridge are also totally in the mom zone. Cavallari has three children — Saylor, Camden and Jaxon — while Patridge welcomed baby girl Kirra Max last summer. Can you even imagine the kinds of adorable playdates and mom groups the women of The Hills could potentially have?
Looking back, I wish I went years ago. I’ve written about my frequent UTIs before and previously estimated that I’ve suffered from over 100 infections since becoming sexually active. Still, I was convinced there was nothing more that could be done for my ongoing urinary issue.
Indignantly, I accepted my proclivity for developing UTIs post-romp-in-the-sack, and believed my gynecologist was already doing everything possible for my sexual and urinary health.
Until my mom finally questioned it six years later. She told me she was seeing a urologist for her UTI problems — which were mainly related to menopause — and that she thought it was time I accepted that my gynecologist's solutions had maxed out and that I seek the help of a specialist.
Previously, it hadn’t even occurred to me that going one step beyond my gynecologist — to a specialist who specifically dabbled in urinary infections and other nether-regions issues — was an option. When my gynecologist said there was nothing more to do — that I’m simply “prone” — I believed him.
Ever since going to my first appointment with a urologist, I haven’t gotten any UTIs — my chronic, six-year problem that happened every single time I had sexual intercourse, is now solved.
So how do you know if you’re in the same boat — if it’s time for you to ditch the gynecologist and go see a specialist instead?
A shot of progesterone may help prevent miscarriage, new research suggests.
According to a study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility, women who have previously had two or more unexplained pregnancy losses less than 10 weeks into their pregnancies have a greater chance of carrying a pregnancy to term when they take the hormone, which is naturally produced in both men and women.
Of the group of women who took part in the study, two-thirds of them delivered their babies successfully following the progesterone treatment, which involved inserting supplements of the hormone into the vagina in the second half of the menstrual cycle.
How does it work? In simple terms, the progesterone helps to maintain the health of the lining of the uterus — and the timing is crucial, as the days following fertilization are when the fertilized ovum needs to be successfully implanted into the uterus wall.
Progesterone also makes sure the uterus has enough dilated blood vessels to feed the growing embryo (until the placenta is created at around 10 weeks and forms its own blood supply), encourages the growth of breast tissue and ensures a woman's body doesn't produce milk until the baby is born.
The effect of progesterone on miscarriage was first studied by doctors in the 1950s, and there remains some debate over whether injections of the hormone are effective in preventing miscarriage. According to Healthline, progesterone treatments are prescribed "because there aren't a lot of other options out there for women who've had recurring miscarriages."
There's no doubt about it, the thought of anal sex is pretty frightening — especially if you've never done it before.
Even for those of us who consider ourselves pretty open when it comes to sex, anal is intimidating. Between worrying about the pain factor and any mess involved — we've all heard the war stories — anal sex is definitely something that takes some guts to give a whirl.
We asked the sexperts to demystify anal sex for first-timers, and it turns out that certain positions are all you need for an enjoyable experience. Well, that and a lot of lube. For the love of all that is holy, don't forget the lube.
1. Cowgirl (or cowboy)
Image: SheKnows Design
In the traditional cowgirl position, your partner lies down while you mount on top — yeehaw! As the partner on top, you can ease into anal penetration by moving up or down as needed. Pro tip: Make sure your bottom partner does not begin to thrust until you're good and ready.
Certified Master Sex Expert and Educator, Sex Coach and "So Tight" Sensual Fitness Personal Trainer Nikki Ransom endorses the cowgirl position for anal newbies. She explains, "This position will allow you to control the pace and depth that his penis goes inside of you. Remember to go at an easy pace and stay relaxed. It helps to have had an orgasm already and be highly aroused."
Jessica O’Reilly (a.k.a. Dr. Jess, Ph.D.), author, international speaker and PlayboyTV's sexologist, offers an alternative to the cowgirl in her book The New Sex Bible, "If she doesn’t like the sensation of deep penetration, but he desires more stimulation against the base of his shaft, she can reach backwards with a warm, wet hand to grasp the lower half of his shaft. Her hand becomes an extension of her butt while providing a physical buffer to ensure only shallow penetration."
2. Doggy style
Image: SheKnows Design
This position is most often associated with anal because it has major advantages. As the partner on the bottom, you can stay loose as you control penetration to increase pleasure. Getting busy on all fours may be your best bet if you have attempted and found anal painful in the past.
Patricia Johnson and Mark Michaels, co-authors of Designer Relationships, Partners in Passion, Great Sex Made Simple, Tantra for Erotic Empowerment and The Essence of Tantric Sexuality, recommend doggy style for first-timers and those who may have had an unpleasant experience before. The couple says, "Anal sex should never be painful. Always use plenty of lube and proceed slowly and gently." Ransom adds, "Rub and stimulate your clitoris too to make it even more pleasurable."
In The New Sex Bible, Dr. Jess has a different take on doggy-style anal sex. She recommends the modified doggy to give the receptive partner more control, support intimacy and provide the opportunity for double penetration. Dr. Jess explains, "She assumes a kneeling position with her butt cheeks on her heels and her knees spread wide open. She places her hands on her knees or the bed for support. He assumes the same position behind her and adjusts his height so that the head of his [penis] rests below her bum. He remains static as she lowers herself onto his head and takes a few deep breaths before sliding farther down his shaft. She drives her butt and hips up and down at her own pace as he reaches around to fondle her breasts or rub her clitoris."
3. Face to face
Image: SheKnows Design
This position is preferred if you are looking for extra intimacy during the act. Start with your partner sitting as you mount his lap, face-to-face. Once again — as the partner on top, you can control depth of penetration to stay comfy. Face-to-face anal has the added bonus of extra stimulation for a woman: breasts, clitoris, go crazy!
Johnson and Michaels love face-to-face anal for the toe-tingling intimacy it provides. They confirm, "This position facilitates using eye contact and breath to build even more arousal."
Dr. Jess agrees. She says, "I like this position as it allows the 'mounter' to exercise a good amount of control of the depth and rhythm of penetration. Wear a vibrating c*** ring for this one to provide extra pleasurable sensations as the top partner grinds against his shaft."
Originally published January 2015. Updated January 2017.
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4. Good old missionary with a twist
Image: SheKnows Design
When it comes to anal, missionary will never steer you wrong. Approach this favorite vanilla sex position with a backdoor twist: In the missionary position, place your legs on his shoulders. With the right amount of lube and relaxation, even initial penetration should be pleasurable.
Missionary is easy-peasy for most maiden voyages, but Johnson and Michaels caution that this anal move may not work for everyone, "Some people may not be sufficiently flexible for this position." For those who are flexible and looking to try new things, Dr. Jess explains her take on missionary, "Better yet, place the soles of your feet against his shoulders so that you can push back and release according to your preferences."
5. On the stomach
Image: SheKnows Design
Anal on the stomach is comfortable and easy, with the right prep work beforehand. First-timers can relax and make penetration enjoyable by lying on top of a pillow placed under the stomach. For women, this elevates the backside nicely and still gives enough room to stimulate other body parts.
Johnson and Michaels recommend incorporating sex toys into the act to keep things interesting, "This is a great position for stimulating your own clitoris or using a vibrator."
Because of the opportunity for sex toy play, Dr. Jess adds that on-the-stomach anal can be especially favorable to the ladies. She says, "This is one of the best anal sex positions for women (as the receptive partner), as she can reach down to stimulate her pubic mound and clitoral shaft with her hand or a flat vibrator (try the We-Vibe Touch). The dual stimulation helps to increase arousal, which heightens relaxation to create a cascade of orgasmic sensations."
6. Spooning, with a twist
Image: SheKnows Design
We are all familiar with spooning for some great side-by-side action. Spooning is also a top choice for anal since both partners are more likely to be relaxed. As the "little spoon," you can make penetration easier by curling up and pulling your upper legs slightly toward your upper body. And while you're at it, here's a naughty little secret to double your pleasure — use a vibrator to get to the finish line.
According to Dr. Jess, spooning is the perfect first-time anal position for lovers. Johnson and Michaels add a helpful tip from their own bedroom experience, "You can give your partner a better view of the action by holding your upper leg just below the knee and opening up."
Ransom also believes that spooning is ideal for a pleasurable beginner anal experience. "This is a great position to stay relaxed in. It also allows for clitoral stimulation and vaginal stimulation for a trigasm." She advises, "Stay relaxed — your partner should enter you an inch at a time. Then, allow your anus to become accustomed and relax around his penis. Then [he can] enter you another inch and another, and continue until he is all the way in. Be sure to have plenty of lubrication with any anal penetration."
There are very few experiences other than pregnancy and childbirth that take a woman’s body to the extreme. Very often, new moms learn a lot about the wonders of what their bodies are capable of during these intense physical experiences.
After giving birth, it can be really difficult to get back into exercising, even if you are mentally ready to get physical again. When you’re caring for a newborn, finding time for exercise can be challenging, and some days you just might feel too tired for a full workout.
If you find yourself doubting the reasons why exercise is good for you — especially as you struggle to get a few hours of uninterrupted sleep or muster up the energy to leave the house — take note of these compelling reasons why exercise after Baby is good for you:
Strengthens and tones abdominal muscles
Boosts energy
May prevent postpartum depression and anxiety
Relieves stress
Promotes better sleep
Helps improve mood and emotional health
The basics of postpartum exercise
According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, if you had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, it's generally safe to begin exercising a few days after giving birth or as soon as you feel ready.
The first thing to take into consideration when easing back into a fitness routine is to be realistic and patient and always take the time to listen to your body.
If you had a C-section, extensive vaginal repair or a complicated birth, the “return to exercise” date is not as clear, and you must first talk to your health care provider regarding your individual needs.
Regardless of your birth method, it’s important to start slowly with low-impact aerobic activity, such as walking. As you gain strength and endurance, you can increase the length of time you exercise or number of days, as well adding more strenuous activity.
It is generally recommended that you get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. And if that number seems daunting, just remember that when you divide it up into 30-minute workouts on 5 days of the week, or into smaller 10-minute sessions throughout each day, it becomes more manageable.
And once you feel comfortable with aerobic activity, try adding two workouts/week of muscle strength activities, such as weightlifting, body weight workouts, water aerobics and other moderate intensity boot camp-style classes.
If your pelvic floor is weak, putting intra-abdominal pressure (like crunches, Pilates or general ab work) can put too much pressure on the pelvic floor and inhibit healing. Two beneficial exercises for women to incorporate postpartum to help with strengthening the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles are the pelvic tilt and Kegel exercises.
Hormone: relaxin
Many women report feeling unstable on their feet due to the hormone relaxin, which can stay in the body up to six months postpartum. This hormone is responsible for softening the ligaments and joints during pregnancy and childbirth and consequently can make women hesitant to try vigorous exercise. If you are still feeling the effects of relaxin postpartum, try to avoid exercises that tend to challenge your balance, such as running, jump roping, boot camp-style classes or any exercise that makes you feel wobbly.
C-section
If you had a C-section, keep in mind that in addition to recovering from the drastic bodily changes resulting from pregnancy, you are also recovering from a major abdominal surgery. A C-section incision takes several weeks to heal, and it may be some time after that before you feel like working out.
Although the doctor might clear you for post-C-section exercise as soon as six weeks after surgery, be aware that this means light, gentle exercise. Exercises beneficial at this time include walking, core and pelvic floor restoration and body weight exercises.
It’s wise to stay away from activities like running, jumping, heavy weight training, crunches, leg raises and other traditional ab exercises.
Diastasis recti
During pregnancy, the growing uterus stretches the muscles in the abdomen. This can cause the two large parallel bands of muscles that meet in the middle of the abdomen to separate — a condition called diastasis recti or diastasis recti abdominis.
This separation usually decreases within a few months of birth, but for some women, it can last much longer.
Diastasis recti can also weaken the abdominal muscles, causing lower back pain and making it difficult to lift objects or do other routine daily activities.
Avoiding exercise such as crunches, sit-ups, pushups and front planks, as well as swimming and some yoga poses (doing anything on your hands and knees) will help eliminate making this separation worse.
Physicians often refer women dealing with this condition to a physical therapist that specializes in postpartum exercise to come up with an individualized exercise plan.
Sometimes, even after you are medically cleared to exercise, you’ll feel discomfort while exercising. If this discomfort continues or gets worse, or if you feel any pain at the surgery site, it’s best to stop what you are doing and consult your physician.
Regardless of the mode of exercise you choose, it should make you feel safe, stable and energized during and after working out.
Don't tell Jesse Plemons that nice guys finish last — homeboy is probably feeling like a pretty big winner right now since rumors are flying that he just slipped an engagement ring on Kirsten Dunst's finger.
In fact, you might say this is an example of life imitating art, and for Plemons, coming out even better on the other side. Case in point? Plemons memorably starred as nerdy football player Landry Clarke in the twangy fan favorite Friday Night Lights. Kirsten Dunst played the hot "cheertator" Torrance Shipman in the cult cheerleading film of our time, Bring It On.
It's as though the universe is still in high school and decided to karmically level the playing field. Plus, it kind of brings things full circle for Plemons, right?
As you'll remember, his poor character pined over the snarky popular girl, Tyra (Adrianne Palicki) for, like, ever. In no big surprise, Tyra barely acknowledged Landry's existence most of the time and instead engaged in a tumultuous on-again, off-again relationship with the super-sexy star fullback/running back on Landry's team, Tim Riggins (Taylor Kitsch).
Despite basically killing a dude for Tyra and taking the rap so Tyra wouldn't get tied into the drama, Landry still never really made it anywhere with the unattainable anti-cheerleader of his dreams. Woe is him.
Or woe was him. Now Plemons can play out all of Landry's teenage dreams IRL, because he finally landed the hot, popular blond cheerleader. You know, sort of — let's be real. No matter how many roles Dunst has played or awards she has won since her Bring It On days, she'll forever be Torrance Shipman in our early '00s-loving hearts.
As far as the deets go for Dunst and Plemons' big news, the Page Six reports that the cute couple got engaged over Golden Globes weekend. At this point, both stars remain mum, but the big sparkler Dunst has been sporting on her ring finger lately has had news outlets speculating about her marital status for weeks.
To add another layer to the "life imitating art" situation, Dunst and Plemons have actually already been married... on screen. On Season 2 of FX's Fargo, Dunst played beautician Peggy Blomquist. Plemons? Her supportive husband, who is a butcher's assistant.
"I am someone who wants to get married... If it happens in my mid-to-late 30s, it's going to be intimate," she told InStyle UK in May 2016, noting that she envisioned her big day would entail "courthouse, dinner party and DJ with friends and family. I'll treat it like it would be my fortieth birthday."
After Carey's disastrous New Year's Eve performance and the letter her ex-husband wrote to her saying she should "hire more seasoned and respected professionals to help her with her career," Carey's longtime manager, Stella Bulochnikov, is sticking up for her boss.
"How dare he! Whose career has he managed in 15 years? He couldn’t walk a day in our shoes. We work our asses off. I wear bigger heels than his balls," Bulochnikov told In Touch Weekly. "Since I started working with her, Mariah has had nothing but unbridled success. Her career has not taken a hit. Everything that she has touched since I started managing her has been a huge success."
Bulochnikov is responding directly to the open letter that Carey's ex, Tommy Mottola, wrote to her and released to the media. Mottola, who was a Sony Music exec in the '90s, helped launch Carey's career, and the two later ended up getting married.
"I would never have encouraged her or guided her to do something like a reality television show!!!!! I don’t get it!!" he wrote in his letter. "That does absolutely nothing for her integrity, her credibility, or her massive talent!! She should take a step back, think carefully and figure out what to do next. That is what she does best... most certainly none of these issues or problems ever existed with her in her early days at Sony for the first 10 years when she skyrocketed to global superstardom!! Where absolutely meticulous and methodical attention was paid to every single detail and nuance that went on into her career!"
Mottola's letter came after Carey botched her performance at Dick Clark's annual New Year's Eve event. She reportedly wasn't able to sing because her earpiece wasn't working and she couldn't hear her backing track. She later claimed that she had been sabotaged to boost the show's ratings.
Oreo has been trying to discover itself over the past few years, constantly releasing new specialty flavors that range from the delicious (Mint Oreos) to the baffling (here's looking at you, Candy Corneos).
The Oreo-flavored Cadbury Creme Egg has the same milk chocolate outer shell as always. But inside? Instead of the thick and creamy icing that's usually hidden within, there's a white chocolate crème that's studded with chunks of chocolaty Oreos. Wowza.
I think this version might actually outdo the original. The Cadbury Creme Egg's filling has always seemed a little sweet to my palate, but I think that peppered with the dark, chocolaty flavor of Oreo cookies, it could finally be the candy my heart didn't even know it always wanted.
If you love Creme Eggs and Oreos, you may be thinking that this is too good to be true. And if you live outside of Canada or the UK... well, it is. Sadly, the Oreo Creme Egg is only available to our neighbors up north and friends across the pond. Maybe now's the time to redeem those airline miles, eh?
In the meantime, maybe we can just try DIY-ing our own Cadbury Creme Egg-Oreo mashup. Cadbury Creme s'mOreos, anyone?
This just in: The Russians have hacked into Jessa Duggar’s pregnancy.
OK, so Russia’s off the hook for this one. (Maybe.) But Jessa Duggar’s current going-on-four-days absence from Instagram has kicked up a lot of dust in Duggar conspiracy theorist circles.
In fact, there’s a crazy amount of speculation that Duggar fudged her due date and we might be in the dark about when Spurgeon’s sequel will really be on the scene. Treason!
OK, fine, maybe not treason. But how are we supposed to get anything done wondering about this, people? Isn’t it bad enough that they refuse to tell us (again) if it’s a boy or a girl?
Based on Jessa Duggar Seewald’s own social media posts, she was 34 weeks pregnant two weeks ago, making her about 36 weeks pregnant now. (We’re good at math.) She and her adorably swathed baby bump appeared last on Instagram three days ago tagged at 36 weeks. That would seem to add up, right?
Not for some hardcore Duggar fans, who believe that Jessa is actually ready to pop any day now — and maybe already has in her short break from Instagram. It’s true that Jessa does tend to be a daily poster on Instagram, but can’t a pregnant Duggar take a few days off and prop her feet up while toddler Spurgeon throws Cheerios at the TV?
Apparently not. And why are some fans so suspicious? Well, there was that whole concealing-the-second-pregnancy from the media for most of her first trimester and lack of subsequent jail time. It's almost as if this stuff doesn't matter!
Still, some fans maintain that the due date is sketchy and “is a lie designed to manipulate fans and boost ratings.” The Hollywood Gossip’s gone so far as to announce Jessa’s “bracing for an early delivery.”
Oh, you cynics. Can’t a reality-TV family-turned-empire just pop their mucous plugs in peace on their own time?
Vegetables are anything but boring when you manage to roast them just right. With crispy, golden edges and a caramelized sweetness, they are a true dinnertime savior.
But how long do you roast them? And what makes the difference between soft, caramelized glory and just plain mush? These tips take all the brainwork out of making perfect roasted veggies. Use them along with your favorite recipe for fail-proof veggies every time.
Image: Natalie Cosgrove/SheKnows
1. Choose the right veggies
Some veggies roast better than others. You want something low-moisture — cucumbers, for instance, don't take quite so well to roasting.
For best results, choose firmer vegetables like potatoes, Brussels sprouts, peppers, onions and carrots.
Cutting your vegetables to the right size is especially important when you're using more than one type of vegetable.
When mixing harder vegetables like potatoes and carrots with things like Brussels sprouts and onions, you need to be careful.
The longer a veggie takes to cook, the smaller it should be cut. So on a tray of sweet potatoes and bell peppers, the sweet potato cubes should be cut smaller than the peppers. This will ensure that everything cooks through at the same rate.
3. Oil it up
For the best browning (and to make sure your veggies don't stick), be generous with the oil. Extra-virgin olive oil works nicely. Instead of drizzling oil over the veggies like many recipes recommend, try tossing your cut veggies with the oil and your preferred seasonings in a bowl until everything is evenly coated.
4. Preheat your pan
To encourage crispy, golden exteriors, pop your roasting pan into the oven as it heats. The pan will get nice and hot, helping to sear the veggies when you add them to the pan.
Don't crowd your veggies on the pan. If you do that, they'll release steam as they cook and will get soggy. Instead, leave some room between your veggies so the hot air can circulate around them, ensuring they get crispy and golden on all sides. You can split your veggies between two pans if you need to.
Whether you like them crispy and golden or closer to charred, these tips will help you get your idea of perfect roasted veggies every time.
Welp. The president’s farewell speech last night in Chicago pretty much did us in. Thanks, Obama.
Seriously. Let’s just shelve all the politics for a second (or, hey, how about a few years?) and admit one thing: It’s time to steal back that “Best Dad Ever” coffee mug you gave yours in third grade and mail it to Obama.
His last address as president echoed the hope that marked his presidential campaign eight years ago — back before leading our upstart, pain-in-the-ass country gave him a head of prematurely gray hair. But the most moving moments of his speech were directed to his wife and daughters.
Obama teared up while addressing Michelle: “For the past 25 years, you have not only been my wife and mother of my children, you have been my best friend… you took on a role you didn't ask for, and you made it your own with grace and with grit and with style and good humor… you made the White House a place that belongs to everybody.”
Image: Scott Olson/Getty Images
Excuse us while we rummage for our Kleenex. The president continued in this heart-exploding fashion, this time addressing his daughters. Although his younger daughter, Sasha, was absent prepping at home for an early morning exam (pretty sure we’ve identified the Hermione of the Obamas), his older daughter, Malia, was unable to hold back the tears as she listened to her father’s words. (It’s OK, Malia, neither could we.)
“Under the strangest of circumstances, you have become two amazing young women," he said. "You are smart and you are beautiful, but more importantly, you are kind and you are thoughtful and you are full of passion.” Melt.
Obama continued, "Of all that I have done in my life, I am most proud to be your dad."
Boom. Pretty sure the mic is somewhere under our pile of soggy tissues.
Obama mic drop
Obama mic drop
We think The Hollywood Reporter may have said it best: "Watching him walk off the stage made you feel like a child desperately holding onto a father’s pants legs to try to prevent him from leaving the house."
As Taco Bell fans know, this menu item has been testing in select locations the past several months because you don't unleash something like this on the public without being on your game. The question is, are we ready?
Because it's not just about the fried raised-without-antibiotics chicken shell. There's also an avocado ranch sauce. That's right. Two of our favorite things, avocado and ranch. Do they belong together? Do they have any business commingling within a fried chicken shell taco? For a measly three dollars? Is this thing too extra for us?
I don't know. I'm a little bit scared, to be perfectly honest. I guess we'll all find out on Jan. 26.
Updated Jan. 11, 2017, 1:45 p.m. PT: The drama is already here.
On Wednesday afternoon, just after news broke that The Weeknd and Selena Gomez had had a steamy sidewalk makeout sesh, his ex, Bella Hadid, unfollowed Gomez on Instagram. Petty much?
According to Elle, Hadid only unfollowed Gomez. She still follows The Weeknd.
Original story:
The Weeknd has a surprising new lady in his life: Selena Gomez.
After splitting up with longtime girlfriend Bella Hadid, The Weeknd was seen by multiple witnesses having a romantic dinner with Gomez at celeb favorite hotspot Giorgio Baldi.
Witnesses say the two had dinner in a private back room with their own personal server, and after closing down the restaurant, they had no problem with PDA on the sidewalk outside while they waited for their cars.
"They were hugging and kissing," a source said. "His driver waited for them and her driver pulled up shortly after. They were super affectionate. Selena was all over him. Hugging him, kissing. She looked amazing so incredibly happy and in love."
Selena Gomez and The Weeknd making out
Selena Gomez and The Weeknd making out
And even though they arrived at the restaurant separately, onlookers say the happy new couple left together, both in The Weeknd's car while Gomez's driver followed behind them.
A source close to Gomez told E! that their relationship is "something new" and "it's not serious right now."
There's the potential for some drama because Gomez is good friends with Gigi Hadid, The Weeknd's ex's famous sister. He and Bella Hadid split in November after nearly two years together, saying their schedules kept them from being able to see each other.
"They still have a great deal of love and respect for each other and will remain friends, but it has been too hard to coordinate their schedules with him finishing and promoting his upcoming album," a source told reporters at the time. "They really tried to make it work."
The hateful comments targeting her skin — “no disrespect but why is her stomach so black?” and “nasty” — haven’t kept Thomas down. But the racist responses to her photo still gave her plenty of SMH moments.
"Most of the negative comments I received were from black people, a lot of dark-skinned black people, a lot of young black people, which is crazy to me," she said.
“We’d don't really get to see black baby bumps and when we do, people have a negative reaction to it, for some reason, like it's vulgar," Thomas commented to BET. "I don't hold on to other people's opinions that have nothing to do with me. I laugh at the ignorance." she said.
"I know it exists, it's there and it's sad,” she continued. “The fact that we're in a Hitler era made it less funny… But I don't let things like that bother me. I'm pretty secure in myself.”
So secure, in fact, that Thomas posted another pregnant bikini photo — along with a classy-as-hell response to her haters — on Instagram on Jan. 2.
Porsche Thomas IG #2
Porsche Thomas IG #2
“While some of y’all been in my comments criticizing the blackness that is my belly and me during what shoulda been your holiday cheer, I been over here enjoying life, growing tiny humans, performing miracles and hopefully getting even blacker #justsaying #melaninpoppin #twins#babybump #noairbrushneeded #love and be #loved,” Thomas wrote.
William, whose mom, Princess Diana, died in a tragic car crash when he was 15, visited Child Bereavement UK to meet with kids who had also lost parents. There, he bonded with the kids by sharing his own story of losing his mom.
"Do you know what happened to me?" he asked 9-year-old Aoife. "You know I lost my mummy when I was very young too. I was [15] and my brother was 12. So we lost our mummy when we were young as well. Do you speak about your daddy? It’s very important to talk about it, very, very important."
Aoife showed William the memory jar she had made in her father's favorite colors, and told People magazine, "It was really nice that he talked to me. It was like there are other people who know what it is like to lose someone."
Aoife's mother also weighed in, saying, "I couldn’t believe it when he started to talk about his mother. It was very emotional and I was willing myself not to start to cry. I almost did. I am telling my children that if they take anything away from this day, it is what he said about how important it is to talk. Kids do not forget that. Sometimes it hurts but we can remember the happy things too. It is so important to talk."
Child Bereavement UK is one of William's main causes that he supports. The charity's founding patron, Julia Samuel, says having the royals involved in invaluable to the cause.
"Bereavement — and particularly child death, which is so unbearable to think about — is something William is shining a light [on]. He is helping us raise awareness in a way that no one else can do," Samuel said. "That’s because people can see how authentic, and heartfelt, he is and he’s experienced it. People can pick up authenticity within seconds."
Last night my husband took all the kids sledding and I had the whole house to myself. (Oh silence I’d missed you.) And I found myself watching my first ever TED Talk explaining that the Millennials are all screwed up because they were the first generation to be raised in the age of social media and I thought, “Well what’s wrong with social media?” It’s fun, it connects people, and how else would we find out about obscure celebrity deaths?”
Well according to TED people use outlets like Facebook and Twitter to lie. People lie to get out of trouble and make themselves seem better or more important than they are. Now I’d heard this before but never gave it much thought, but for some reason coming out of an expert's mouth it sounded very true. So I turned it off and went on Facebook to test the theory. Do you know it's right? People aren’t just lying, they’re bragging and whining.
In the new year, we're all committed to making 2017 not suck right? Well I think there’s a very simple place to start: social media. Pick an outlet (Don’t pick Twitter it’s evil) and ask yourself an honest question: Do I post honesty, blatant lies, shameless bragging, or complaints?
For example, I have a friend whom I’ll call Narcissa because it means “love thyself.” She’s blonde, beautiful, rich, and thin with a hot husband and perfect children. Her posts are all pictures of herself in front of her shore or lake house in a bikini with her hot husband and perfect children and the captions read something along the lines of: #Lovinglife#soblessed#livingthedream#purejoy.
If it’s envy she's seeking, congratulations she's got it. However if her desire is to “connect” with people she needs to try something different. The next time she starts to post a new picture of wearing diamonds, she could post a picture of the wart on her toe instead and tell us it hurts. She's already desirable, but people want relatable.
Of course there are also people who do nothing but complain about the problems I wish to God I had in place of my own. I'll use "Amanda" as an example because we all know someone who when her posts come up in your news feed you roll your eyes and think, “Could you PLEASE start a blog so I can NOT follow it.” Page after page and you’re just like, “Shut up already!” And what kills you is she’s a nice person. A genuinely nice person who just has zero grip on reality and WAY too much time on her hands. The last thing I read went something like:
"I’m so sad. Honestly I’m so sad I think I might drown in my sorrow. Yoga didn’t help. I’m sitting here trying to plan our 11th vacation of the year, a month long tour of France, and I can barely lift my fingers to type. We have to sell our shore house. We’ve crunched the numbers a million different ways but it’s the only way we can afford a boat big enough for all of us to sail around the world. I know I have to have priorities but I just can’t stop crying. Maybe I’ll go get another tattoo?"
People, please don’t be Amanda. Before you post about a problem can you please make sure it’s something anyone would consider a problem. There are people out there facing illnesses, death and bankruptcy and don’t tell me it’s all relative because it’s not. If your biggest problem is that you have to sell your summer home to buy a boat, you don’t have any problems. You are surrounded by people who are genuinely suffering so in a world where you can be anything, be empathetic.
And now for the liars. We’re all liars but some people post things about themselves that just aren’t true to mask what’s really going on in their lives. I have nothing witty to say about this except please stop. You don’t have to be like me and post about your problems constantly, but once in a while it would be nice if you admitted you had some.
I read a post from an old friend the other day that really blew my mind. Her husband recently left her for another woman and though she’s devastated about it she posted a selfie with the caption “So Happy To Say I’m Single!” I sat there thinking, “No you’re not. I know you’re not. I talked with you for an hour last week while you cried. Why are you posting this? Because you don’t want anyone to know you’re sad? Your husband just left you who WOULDN’T be sad?” I speak from experience people: When you are in pain, if you lie and say you’re happy the pain gets worse.
That’s why they say that the Millennials are so depressed – because they turn to social media where everyone is happy so they think they’re the only ones depressed, and then they get more depressed. When your life sucks you don’t have to talk about it, but don’t lie, it just makes it worse.
Then there are people like my friend Maria who is one of those rare people whose posts are all honest and fun. She is honest because she has no sense of how to lie. Her posts crack me up not because she’s trying to be funny, but because it’s stuff that actually happens to her. A typical Maria posts is along the lines of, "This is the third time this week Edward has fallen off the roof." When she posts pictures it’s of the cake she baked, the mountain of clothes in her laundry room or her son’s newest black eye.
When I read Narcissa’s posts I feel envious, when I read Amanda’s I feel angry, when I read the liars I feel sad, but when I read Maria I feel like I’m home. I smile and think, “My laundry room looks like that too!” It makes me happy to see I’m not the only one and to think I might be anything like her, this sweet, inconspicuous, joyful little soul who is never anything but honest about her life. Honesty heals even the most broken of souls.
So if you’re looking for 2017 to be different, the next election to be different, or if you’re looking to make a difference of any kind, tell the truth on social media.
If you’re going to the Women’s March on Washington, you might want a gentle reminder that it’s only 10 days away. By now, you’ve probably secured transportation (if you don’t live in D.C.) and housing (if you’re planning to stay over), but what about signs? And snacks? And how on Earth do you plan to stay warm?
Don’t worry: We’ve got you covered. Once you’ve nailed down your travel plans (and registered! Which is very important!), let us take care of the rest. We’ve assembled the top 10 resources to take care of the little things — nourishment, messaging, attire — so you can relax and focus on the bigger picture. That is, conveying a strong message to Donald Trump and lawmakers around the country that women aren’t going to take this one sitting down — we’re going to get up and march. (For more, head over to the Women’s March FAQ.)
1. Signs
You can certainly make your own sign — all you need is a piece of poster board and a Sharpie. But if you’d rather download signage and take it to your local printer to get a more professional-type sign made, you can head over to Dome for some graphic poster concepts. Or just pick up a sign from the Amplifier Foundation — they headed up an art contest for the protest and plan to print and disseminate tens of thousands of signs and banners for the march. They haven’t announced their winner yet, so stay tuned.
2. Sign support
Keep in mind that wooden supports for signs and placards are not permitted, so you’ll have to carry your sign by hand (or attach it to something that could not be used as a weapon). Cardboard signposts are fine.
3. Snacks
By all means, pack any and all snacks for the rally and protest. That said, backpacks are not permitted at the march — and neither are bags larger than 8 by 6 by 4 inches. That’s pretty small, so plan accordingly — think sandwiches, wraps and lots and lots of protein bars. Alternately, you are allowed to bring an additional 12 by 12 by 6-inch plastic or gallon bag, into which you could stuff your lunch.
Dress warmly, in layers, and don’t forget the most comfortable shoes you have in your closet.
5. Staying warm
You might want to consider investing in hand warmers — or even a battery-powered heated vest for long hours in the great outdoors. Definitely a hat and gloves, in any case.
6. Bathrooms
There will be portable bathroom facilities, so plan accordingly.
If you’re breastfeeding or have other medical needs, you are allowed to bring an additional clear bag or backpack no larger than 17 by 12 by 6 inches, but no colored transparent bags are permitted. There will be breastfeeding stations along the root, and the FAQ page will be updated this week with information about where they will be.
8. Children
As to kids, it’s your choice as to whether to bring them, but they are welcome. There is a Facebook page for parents who plan to attend the march with kids, which is a good resource for coordination.
9. Volunteering
If you want to roll up your sleeves and volunteer, head over to this Google Doc to sign up.
For those who won’t make it to the march (or those who will!), there’s the option of donating money to the cause. The Women’s March on Washington is trying to raise $2 million before the march — so far, they’re up to $940,690 and counting, about halfway there. You can also buy a commemorative T-shirt or sweatshirt, which won’t arrive before the march — but will benefit the cause.
Corey Feldman and Corey Haim were both child stars. They became best friends at a young age and weathered being teens together in Hollywood. Still by each other's sides, they both fell into debt and drugs. And while Haim died in 2010, Feldman still talks often about his old friend and the hardships they endured together, both in the spotlight and out of it.
Now, a new movie will tell the story of their friendship and all the ups and downs that came with it. Fallen Angels released a casting call this week looking for actors to play the lead roles, Feldman and Haim at different ages, as well as some of Hollywood's other biggest names who were close to the pair when they were kids. Michael Jackson will be featured in the film as Feldman's longtime friend after they met on the set of The Goonies. Producers are also seeking a Carrie Fisher look-alike for the scene in which Fisher tried to give maternal advice to Feldman before he fell into drug addiction.
According to the casting call, the movie will be set in 2016, and feature flashbacks that tell the story of Feldman's and Haim's lives.
"Six years after the death of Corey Haim, his lifelong friend Corey Feldman reminisces about their friendship — their jet-propelled rise to sudden fame and the tragic fall that followed: a drug-fueled descent into addiction, rehab and adulthood," it reads.
Producers are seeking look-alike actors for Haim, Feldman, Jackson and Fisher, as well as Sean Astin, who co-starred alongside Feldman in The Goonies, and Kerri Green, the teen actress who co-starred in Lucas alongside Haim.
The movie may also delve into the abuse that Feldman has claimed he and Haim suffered as child stars — the casting call describes an unnamed male character who "takes advantage of one of his young cast members."
Maybe you would call me an introvert. I stay in the house for weeks at a time, never sticking my nose out into the fresh air. Most days I wear pajamas all day. My husband does the grocery shopping, picks up my prescriptions, and does most of the other errands. I go out when I have a doctor's appointment or when Dan entices me out with the promise of a restaurant meal.
I don't consider myself an introvert, and I do consider myself a social person. So why do I stay indoors?
My bipolar disorder makes me sensitive to noise and crowds. Technically, I think this is more agoraphobia than introversion. I can handle being in small groups of people or audiences, but hundreds milling around, (like at a mall) make me panicky. And forget places that are both noisy and full of people, like Chuck E. Cheese or other family-intensive restaurants.
That said, I like to be social – on my own terms. That largely means Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, various online bipolar support groups, IM, email, Skype, and the good old-fashioned telephone. In the years since I've been on Facebook, for example, I've connected more deeply with old friends and coworkers, reconnected with old schoolmates and Girl Scout troop members, gained new relationships with friends-of-friends, and discovered things I never knew about my acquaintances. I keep up with birthdays, look at baby, travel, and pet pictures; and cheer on accomplishments, as I would in person. (Except for the hugs. Virtual hugs are just not the same. But my husband takes up the slack there)
Most of all, I stay inside because I can. My husband enables me in this, as when he does the grocery shopping. We tried splitting the shopping, but even with the little runabout scooter-with-a-basket (mobility issues), I was overwhelmed and exhausted after shopping just one-half of the store.
The work I do is conducive to telecommuting. I can sit in front of my keyboard and monitor, in my pajamas, and still be a useful, productive member of society. I have clients and interact with them in the aforementioned ways. I haven't had an assignment that involves leaving the house in years – not even to do research. I used to have to visit libraries occasionally, and while they're not known for being noisy and crowded, Google and the internet put virtually any information I need right on my screen or hard drive.
Admittedly, getting out into the fresh air would be good for me. We live in a nice secluded area that would be good for walking, and there are any number of parks nearby, if I want variety. I know that going out and getting at least a small amount of exercise would be good for my bipolar depression, but I haven't been able to force myself to do it yet. Going outside to walk involves getting out of my jammies into real clothes, and possibly taking a shower, either before I leave or when I get back. And many of you know what a challenge showers are for people with depression, bipolar or otherwise.
But again, this is a symptom of my bipolar disorder and the immobility it causes, rather than introversion. I'm not afraid of meeting people while out walking, or even having conversations with them. Usually "hi" is all that's needed in these situations, and I have the ability to make a limited amount of small talk appropriate to the occasion. ("Sure is windy today." "Are those shoes comfortable?") Since I seem to be riding a hypomanic swing these days, perhaps I'll be able to get out and walk occasionally. I know my husband would heartily endorse the idea and most likely go with me to offer me encouragement.
But the bottom line is that I can go out amongst people if I want to. I just usually don't want to.
