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Olivia Munn Restricts Her Social Media Amid Aaron Rodgers Breakup

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Olivia Munn and Aaron Rodgers' breakup may have been amicable, but their fans clearly aren't feelin' it.

Munn recently updated her Instagram by turning off all comments on her most recent photos. Though it's unclear why she did it, exactly, her decision must have something to do with all the attention the split is garnering for the actress.

More: Olivia Munn Was Scared Into Freezing Her Eggs

Or maybe she just wanted to bask in the glory of how fabulous she looks in Cosmopolitan this month all on her own.

olivia munn instagram pic 1

olivia munn instagram pic 1

olivia munn instagram pic 2

olivia munn instagram pic 2

Not that I blame the girl. Who wants to be reminded of her ex every single time she opens Instagram? Munn has every right to move on in any way she needs to.

More: 7 Bizarre Facts About Olivia Munn You Never Knew

Not to mention that people on social media are brutal. If you scanned the comments before Munn disabled them, plenty of them are from people heartbroken over her split with Rodgers — but those are the nice ones. On the mean end, there are those who listened to Jordan Rodgers talk too much on The Bachelorette. You know, the ones accusing Munn of being too controlling? Yeah, it isn't pretty. Or nice. Basically, rumor has it, Aaron is on the outs with his family because they didn't approve of Munn. Though neither party has confirmed these rumors, it's been hinted at since Jordan won The Bachelorette.

No matter the truth behind the family drama, I say Olivia Munn deserves to pour herself a big ol' glass of wine and enjoy the social media silence for a while as a single lady.

More: Olivia Munn Calls Plastic Surgery Rumors "Unfair" — and We Completely Agree

Are you rooting for an Aaron Rodgers/Olivia Munn reunion in the near future, or do you think they're done for good?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Celebrity breakups slideshow
Image: CBS

How My Son Cured My Fear of Vomiting

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At some point during my adolescence, I became entirely freaked out by the idea of throwing up. I haven’t had enough therapy to unearth the reasons why. I remember getting sick at the age of 9 at Hersheypark — a relatively uneventful puke session brought on not by a ride, but some bad creamed onions at dinner — and then I just decided I wasn’t going to throw up anymore. And I didn’t. And didn’t, and didn’t. The years went by, and the idea of throwing up became increasingly terrifying. The slightest queasiness brought on heart-stopping panic and tears. If I actually felt honest-to-God nauseated, I ran around the house weeping, alarming the hell out of whomever was around. But I didn’t throw up!

Somehow, I managed to avoid throwing up throughout my high school and college years, even when I was an enthusiastic drinker, and throughout pregnancy and even through labor. And then I had a baby, and my fear took a turn. Not only did I now worry about myself throwing up, but I had a small, dependent being who needed me. And would need me even when he was sick.

More: Emetophobia: An Overwhelming Fear of Nausea and Norovirus, Explained

As afraid as I was of throwing up, I was even more terrified of someone else throwing up near or on me. Once I fled a restaurant when the person I was with began retching and gagging. I got up and ran out. It turned out he was choking on steak. And I left. (Well, I went outside, anyway. I came back! He was OK. I still feel a little bad about it.) I couldn’t handle the sight or sound — or God help me, the smell — of someone being sick. How was I going to take care of a baby? Babies are puke machines. It’s one of the four things they do. In addition to vomiting for sport, they also catch every virus that’s going around and quickly transmit them to their parent. I was doomed.

The idea of my son getting sick kept me up nights — well after he was waking me up for 3 a.m. feedings. I couldn’t let go of the fear. At some point my beloved child would become the thing I dreaded most: a vomiting person who depended on me. Would I abandon him? Run outside to catch a cab?

As it turned out, my son was not one of those kids who catches stomach viruses every time they come around. I don’t know how I got to be so lucky. On the other hand, he was one of those kids who pukes every time he gets into a car.

During a vacation roaming the hill towns of Italy, he had his very first dramatic, explosive puke right in the backseat of our rental car. And yes, it was epically horrible. He was weeping. I was gagging. What was once his lunch pooled in his lap and dripped down the back of our seats. We pulled over, miraculously right in front of a laundromat. And then — and this is important — it was fine. I managed to comfort him without my heart stopping. We cleaned up the backseat to the best of our abilities. And within minutes, he was playing with a Transformer on the floor of the laundromat wearing nothing but a diaper while we tried to figure out how to interpret washing machine instructions in Italian.

It was practically a nonevent. Vomiting was simply a way to get rid of something unpleasant, and once the thing was gone, he was perfectly cheerful and a little snacky.

More: I Went Under Hypnosis to Cure My Fear of Bugs

This one incident gave way to a few more, each equally gross, but he was always unfazed afterward. Once he was demanding a milkshake while we were still spritzing the back seat with Febreze. Another time he wiped his chin with one hand and declared, “Throwing up is like magic!” I could see his point. With one dramatic heave, your discomfort is all gone! Ta-da!

And then, eventually, he got his first stomach virus. And it was fine. I was fine! Shaky, but fine. It was like a miracle. I mean, sure, I washed my hands a little too much for the duration of his sickness, but at least I didn't run outside to hail a cab.

Then came the day when, finally, I got sick. It was 33 years since the Hersheypark incident. Thirty. Three. Years. That’s a long time not to ever throw up, kids. But one night, I had some questionable takeout — and an hour later, I knew it was about to happen. I wasn’t thrilled about it. But I also knew that I wasn’t going to fight it like I usually did. I wasn’t going to stay up all night, clenching my stomach, digging my nails into my fists. I had things to do the next day. Besides, as my kid had told me, throwing up is magic.

And you know what? It was unpleasant. But more important, it was fine. It was over, and — once again — I was still alive.

The phobia that’s been dogging me for most of my life just doesn't have the power it used to. I’m not looking forward to the next time one of us gets sick, but I’m also not thinking about it in my spare time. And that’s the real magic here.

7 Things That Aren't Normal In Bed — and How to Handle It

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Whether you’ve been with the same partner for years or are single and looking, when it comes to a healthy sex life, you may occasionally wonder how your experiences stack up against other people's. Just like with anything that’s based on personal preferences, there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to what's normal in the bedroom.

“What's most normal of all is people wondering whether they're normal — in terms of physical appearance, genitalia, sex drive, frequency and intensity, lubrication, orgasms... it goes on and on," says relationship therapist Holly Brown. "What sex should always have is full consent and participation. That's the only prerequisite, really. You should feel like whatever you're doing sexually, you want to keep doing — or stop."

While Brown notes it’s important not to be too preoccupied with comparing yourself to others, there are certain experiences in bed that are undeniably not healthy. From physical pain to emotional guilt, here are seven things that aren't normal in bed and why.

Precoital guilt

If you’re not in the mood, you’re not in the mood — it’s as simple as that. While never wanting to have sex might be cause to reevaluate the state of your relationship or health, if your partner puts you down or manipulates or hurts your feelings when you decline sex, you’re in an abnormal (read: unhealthy) relationship. The same goes if you shame your partner when he or she doesn’t share your appetite at any given moment.

“If your partner is only having sex because they feel bad or were threatened or manipulated in any way, the relationship and sex will suffer." says Angie Gunn, a sex therapist at Talkspace. “Instead, learn to accept no, manage feelings that come up like rejection or fear, welcome boundaries and be comfortable putting yourself out there again through future offers and initiation."

As you do this, offering your partner choice and opportunities to connect with enthusiastic consent, they'll be likelier to open up to you and offer you the same, creating space for exponentially more shared pleasure and connection.

Multiple orgasms

While more than one orgasm in a single sex session is amazing, it's not something that happens to most women every time they get between the sheets, so don't put that unrealistic expectation on yourself. It can take the attention away from pleasure and make it about beating your own score.

“Chasing multiple or simultaneous orgasms can create performance anxiety rather than pleasure. Having benchmarks doesn't tend to enhance your experience," says Brown. "The wonderful thing about sex is it's something that can and should be collaborative and not competitive."

Power imbalance

It may not sound super-hot, but discussing boundaries is a mandatory topic for sexual partners no matter how long you've been together. Mutual consent should always be reached, and even if it's an implicit understanding after a decade of marriage, that consent can be withdrawn at any time. If one partner isn't into it, the other shouldn't be pushing him or her.

“The use of power and control can be problematic when couples don’t clearly negotiate or communicate consent and expectations," says Gunn. "It can be scary to discuss your feelings and desires, but allowing a partner to push limits or engaging in activities inconsistent with your personal ethos is more damaging long term.”

In committed relationships and new partnerships alike, that means having open and honest communication about sexual experiences, fantasies and interests. If you can't get onto the same page or if, God forbid, a partner chooses not to respect the boundaries you've clearly communicated, it's time to GTFO immediately.

Climax tunnel vision

Take a gander through Pinterest's cheesiest quote archives, and you’ll no doubt come across the oldie-but-goodie: "Life isn’t about the destination, but the journey.” Same goes for sex — dorky, but true! Couples who only focus on the sexual end game instead of savoring the sensory experience as it’s happening miss out on true intimacy, says Gunn.

“Pleasure is more nuanced and difficult to create for some; which makes normative ideas about sexual activity and the focus on climax problematic," says Gunn. "As you've hopefully heard by now, penetrative sex is not necessarily the most effective way to create pleasure or climax for all partners. Many prefer hands, toys, mouths or stimulation of other body parts beyond the genitals."

She suggests shifting the focus to enjoying the moment and noticing all your partner’s reactions, not just waiting for each other's O face.

Meh sex

“It's not normal to have regular sex without pleasure involved," says relationship expert and author Dr. Dawn Michael. "Yes, sex has a practical function, but of course, it's supposed to feel good." While it's normal for long-term couples to encounter a rut or two where sex is a little lackluster because the spark has faded into the everyday dealings of life, consider whether you need to spend more time or energy investing in reviving your lust for one another.

And yes, new partners often require a little tinkering and adjustments to figure out what works for one another. But if it's been weeks or months and he or she still just isn't doing it for you, it may be time to throw in the towel. Chemistry can't be forced.

Constant pain

Though you might experience some discomfort on occasion, depending on the intensity level or how lubricated you are, if you’re having sharp symptoms, it’s time to talk to your regular doc or gynecologist, as it could indicate a deeper problem, says gynecologist Dr. Catherine Goodstein.

“I have patients who complain of painful penetration. Usually, this is because there's not enough lubrication or a pelvic infection," she says. "Longer foreplay and products can help with the lube issue, and it's totally normal for natural lube levels to wax and wane over time. As for pelvic infections, something a simple as a yeast infection can cause painful penetration and can be easily treated. If patients have persistent pain with vaginal penetration then they should see their gynecologist to identify the cause.”

Orgasms every time

While the silver screen might make you think women (read: professional adult film stars) are having orgasms left and right with seemingly the slightest touch from their partners, the reality couldn’t be further from the truth.

Brown estimates that only 30 percent of women can orgasm from vaginal intercourse alone. That means the vast majority can’t get there without extra attention to foreplay and maybe the use of toys. “When a woman’s partners assume she should be orgasming from intercourse and when women themselves buy into it, they feel abnormal and deficient,” Brown explains. “There are plenty of other ways to reach orgasm, either as a supplement or alternative to intercourse, and those are all normal. So it's important for women and their partners to relax their expectations and increase their pleasure.”

And hey, if you are one of the ladies coming every time (or practically every time), more power to you — we just want to make sure no one thinks that's what's happening in most bedrooms because it's not.

More: Women Are More Impacted by Power Differences In Relationships

Trouble getting it up

A man’s ability to maintain an erection is typically a good indicator of his health and what’s happening in his body both physically and mentally, says Dr. Paul Gittens, director of the Philadelphia Center for Sexual Medicine. “Normal erectile function is a sign of good heart health, weight and sleeping habits, among other things.”

If it only happens every once in awhile — after a few drinks, for instance — it's probably no reason to worry. “And don't assume that men's penises should always work the same, regardless of age, diet, stress or a million other factors," says Brown. "It doesn't mean he's no longer attracted to you if he can't rise to the occasion every now and then. The reality is, male arousal and female arousal are both variable. They can both use a little coaxing now and again or the awareness that it's OK to say, ‘Not tonight, OK?’”

Porn-like sex

Maybe you like to tune into some X-rated clips with your partner or on your own. That's a totally healthy addition to your sex life as long as it doesn’t desensitize you to what normal, unfilmed and unscripted intercourse and foreplay are really like.

“Porn is intended to titillate the viewer, not the participant," says Brown. "Think of it this way: Do you want to eat the most beautiful food in the world if it's made out of wax or a good, sloppy meal that's made of real, delicious ingredients? Satisfying sex is often messy. It may or may not be acrobatic. It may or may not involve bodily fluids all over the place. But if you're doing porn moves, let it be because both you and your partner truly enjoy them, not because you think it's what you're supposed to do."

If porn is becoming too much of a focus or impacting your expectations, try switching up your sexy fodder. From reading erotica to taking a tantric sex or Kama Sutra class together, Brown says that by “diversifying what you're watching, you can bring in new influences.”

More: What It's Like to Be Decades Older or Younger Than Your S.O.

"Spicey" Sean Spicer Wishes Us a Happy Easter on SNL

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The cast of Saturday Night Live got in the Easter spirit this week in the best way possible: by having Melissa McCarthy play press secretary Sean Spicer playing the Easter Bunny. McCarthy was reprising her role as the testy, mispronouncing, culturally insensitive "Spicey," while Spicer was reprising his role as the Easter Bunny, which he played at White House Easter Egg Roll in 2008.

Sean Spicer easter bunny

Sean Spicer easter bunny

More: Melissa McCarthy & the Women of SNL Continue Lampooning the Trump Admin

McCarthy was once again brilliant in her portrayal of the embattled, high-strung, often condescending press secretary, who fumbled over the names of foreign leaders and repeatedly told the press to shut up. This week, the "Spicey" character hit on Spicer's recent, disturbing Holocaust misstatements, once by calling concentration camps "concentration clubs." He also had a message for Easter, alluding to President Trump's troubling, aggressive tweets to North Korea: "Eat as much candy as you want because this is probably our last Easter on earth!"

McCarthy Spicer SNL

McCarthy Spicer SNL

The sketch became more and more biting as it went on. At one point McCarthy (as Spicer) muses, "Why do you focus on every slur and lie I say?"

spicy SNL

spicy SNL

More: Let's Take a Minute to Applaud SNL for Having Four Women Play Men

Jimmy Fallon dons a bulletproof vest to play Jared Kushner

This was yet another week on Saturday Night Live in which non-cast members really shined as the sketch comedy show relentlessly lampooned the Trump administration. In addition to McCarthy taking on Spicer, the show's cold open once again featured Alec Baldwin as Donald Trump, with a special appearance by host Jimmy Fallon.

baldwin trump SNL

baldwin trump SNL

Fallon has been criticized for being apolitical over the last year, shying away from open criticism on his show and even throwing softballs at Trump during an interview before the election. More recently, his show's ratings have been falling while Stephen Colbert and the Late Show have found great success lampooning Trump. The Tonight Show has recently taken a stronger stance, and perhaps Fallon's SNL appearance is another step toward taking stronger political stances with his comedy. Still, though Fallon appears in a sketch that is critical of Trump, and though he portrays Trump son-in-law and White House advisor Jared Kushner wearing a bulletproof vest, he is silent except for his "It's Saturday night!" close to the cold open.

The rest of the sketch hits Trump, Vice President Pence, and White House chief strategist Steve Bannon hard. It begins with Trump reminiscing about his term so far, which has included aggression toward Syria and not much else. At one point, Pence reminds Trump how long they have to go, and Trump responds with, "Have you seen my tweets about North Korea? This could be all over by Monday."

Trump then brings in Kushner (who he calls Koosh-Ball) and Bannon (who is dressed like the grim reaper). He declares, reality television style, that one of them will be eliminated and have to live in the basement with Kellyanne Conway. Kushner is chosen and gets to sit at the desk at the Oval Office, while Trump is left to play with toys.

kushner SNL

kushner SNL

kushner SNL 2

kushner SNL 2

With four episodes left in this season of SNL, it's a good guess that the cast and writers will continue to hit politics hard in April and May. However, with hints that Baldwin is tiring of the impersonations and with many Americans feeling outrage fatigue, it is difficult to know what's in store for next season.

More: Donald Trump Would Really Love to Take Alec Baldwin's First Amendment Rights Away

Who is your favorite Trump Administration SNL portrayal?

What Are Normal Side Effects After Taking the Plan B Pill?

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Question: I had sex for the first time with a boy and we didn’t use protection. The next day I bought the “morning after pill” and took it. I had some menstrual bleeding for about 30 minutes later that day, and my stomach really hurts. I’m really scared; is everything normal? Is there a possibility that I’m pregnant?

Dr. Sherry Ross: Plan B is also known as the “morning after pill” or “emergency contraception” when accidents happen… and they do! If reliable birth control was not part of the game plan, serious actions can be taken to make sure you cannot get pregnant.

The most common emergency contraception is a high dose of hormones taken ideally within 72 hours of having vagina-penis sex to prevent pregnancy 89 percent of the time. This method prevents pregnancy by delaying the ovary from releasing an egg so that you do not ovulate. If the egg is not released, the sperm cannot fertilize the egg, and pregnancy will not occur.

Remember: Emergency contraception is not an abortion pill; it’s a birth control.

More: Why there's been a major surge in IUD requests

When can you take emergency contraception?

  • After having sex without birth control
  • When the condom breaks or other method failure such as missing more than three birth control pills in a row or your partner didn’t pull out in time
  • In cases of rape

What are the different types of emergency contraception?

  • Progestin-only (levonorgestrel): One or two pills taken 12 and 24 hours apart. Plan B and Next Choice One Dose are the most common brands that can be purchased over the counter. If your body mass index is over 25, these brands are not recommended.
  • Progesterone agonist/antagonist (ulipristal acetate): A prescription-only alternative. Well-known in Europe. Brand name is Ella.
  • Estrogen-progestin oral contraceptives: Less commonly used and less effective. Greater side effects.
  • Copper IUD: Less commonly used but effective alternative for long-term birth control. More costly. Recommended for women who are overweight. Has a 99.9 percent effective rate in preventing pregnancy. One brand name is ParaGard.

More: Women tweet #MyPillStory to share birth control woes

Short-term side effects of using emergency contraception include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Irregular bleeding and spotting can occur for one to four weeks
  • Breast tenderness
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dizziness
  • Headache

An antinausea medication for nausea and vomiting is recommended one hour before you take oral emergency contraception. Ibuprofen is also helpful for pain and abdominal cramping. The best time to start taking emergency contraception is as soon as possible after having unprotected sex or if a condom broke during sex. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours after sex, but it can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex.

The cost of oral emergency contraception is from $30 to $65 for the pills and $500 to $900 for an IUD.

More: This just in: Male birth control may be in our future

No real doctor follow-up is needed after taking Plan B or other emergency contraception. However, the best follow-up would be meeting with your health care provider to get started on a more reliable birth control method.

Creating a Plan A is a whole lot less stressful than needing to go to Plan B.

By Dr. Sherry Ross

Originally published on HelloFlo.

11 Justin Timberlake & Jimmy Fallon Skits That Will Make You Pee Your Pants

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Every once in a great while, the world is blessed with a special kind of bromance that touches our hearts and shakes us to our very core —  it's a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness, really. And while Patrick Stewart and Sir Ian McKellen are definitely a bromance for the ages, they can't really hold a candle to the special spark that exists between Justin Timberlake and Jimmy Fallon.

It's hard to trace this touching story of one musician and one thespian coming together to entertain the masses back to its roots — but maybe that's because we're not meant to. The bond between the two men is so profound, it's not meant to be understood. It just is.

More: 21 Games Invented by Jimmy Fallon That You Could Totally Play at Home

OK, we kid — but Timberlake and Fallon really are a comedic match made in heaven. Just the thought of them in a small room together, giggling as they come up with new sketches to perform is enough to bring a smile to our faces.

It's obvious that the creative powerhouses love to work together, so why hasn't Fallon gotten down on one knee and made an honest man out of Timberlake by asking him to be his permanent co-host? The result could be nothing less than magical, just look at all the evidence.

1. Camp Winnipesaukee

Justin Timberlake and Jimmy Falon camp clip

Justin Timberlake and Jimmy Falon camp clip

Why do we get the distinct feeling that this is not too far from what a real Fallon/Timberlake slumber party is like?

2.  #Hashtag

JT and Fallon's

JT and Fallon'Image: The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon/YouTubes

Witty social commentary + a spot-on Ray Romano impression + Missy Elliott's "Work It" = Perfection.

3. Family Feud on SNL

Family Feud on SNL

Family Feud on SNL

There's nothing not amazing about this ensemble SNL skit, but watching both Timberlake and Fallon (unsuccessfully) trying not to break as they stand face to face while Timberlake is in character as Fallon might be one of the funniest things we've ever seen.

More: The Best Part of the Oscars Red Carpet Was Justin Timberlake's Photobombs

4. Evolution of End Zone Dancing

Evolution of End Zone Dancing

Evolution of End Zone Dancing

The "Football Spin" into the "Love Scene From Ghost" really is pretty much Fallon and Timberlake's relationship, in a nutshell.

5. Real People, Fake Arms, Parts 1 & 2

Real People, Fake Arms part 1

Real People, Fake Arms part 1

Real People, Fake Arms part 2

Real People, Fake Arms part 2

Ridiculous premise, brilliant execution. Lumberpond really gets all up in the customer's inseam. Do you think they cleared those *NSYNC jokes with the rest of the band?

6. The Barry Gibb Talk Show on SNL

The Barry Gibb Talk Show

The Barry Gibb Talk Show

The dancing. The hair. The singing. The suits. The falsetto speaking voice. It's all just too uncanny.

7. Three Michael McDonalds sing "Row, Row, Row Your Boat"

3 Michael McDonalds

3 Michael McDonalds

If this round of "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" doesn't make you lol, you have no soul.

8. Bring It on Down to Wrappinville

Bring it on Down to Wrappinville

Bring it on Down to Wrappinville

Sometimes when Fallon and Timberlake dance, it's like they are the same person and their turn as professional wrappers is no exception. Fallon admits that he sacked Timberlake's deck for him, too. It's what friends do.

9 and 10. Back at Winnipesaukee

JT and Fallon sing

JT and Fallon sing

JT and Fallon sing Hootie

JT and Fallon sing Hootie

We were wrong when we thought Timberlake and Fallon singing "Jumper" was the most epic summer at Camp Winnipesaukee because their sweet, sweet harmonies to "Africa" and the trembling vibrato of "I Only Want to Be With You" are so much more satisfying.

11. Just Jimmy and Justin

Just Justin and Jimmy

Just Justin and Jimmy

In this adorable segment, it's obvious that Fallon and Timberlake's chemistry is so strong that an actual skit isn't even needed. The two guys sitting around, shootin' the shit, is entertainment enough on its own.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

justin timberlake accomplishments slideshow

Originally published March 2015. Updated April 2017.

Quiz: Can You Name These Cartoon Characters?

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Saturday mornings growing up were the best, weren't they? Mom would pour a bowl of your favorite sugary-sweet cereal, you'd park it in front of the boob-tube and then for a few glorious hours, you'd soak up all of your favorite silly faces and superheroes.

But we all know it's been a minute since those glory days. Do you still have what it takes to recall some of the characters who graced your screen every Saturday morning growing up? Take our quiz and find out.

Quiz: Cartoon Character Names

Quiz: Cartoon Character Names

More on Classic Cartoons

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Remember This Cartoons? Popples

John Oliver Warns France Not to Make America's Presidential Mistake

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Donald Trump's approval ratings continue to plummet, and while he insists those poor numbers are all the work of "fake news," it's clear that a lot of people do not approve of his administration. But is he the world's least liked political figure? Nope — and it's not even close.

More: Last Week Tonight Shines a Much-Needed Light on Gerrymandering

Turns out, the French hate François Hollande way more than Americans hate Donald Trump. As of November 2016, Hollande's approval rating was (drumroll, please)...4 percent. That's right. Hollande can't even crack double digits. But given France's current situation, it's easy to see why. As John Oliver points out, the country has suffered a string of terrorist attacks, plus a persistently high unemployment rate.

More: John Oliver Exposes the Malice Behind Donald Trump's Proposed Budget

Thankfully for those tired of Hollande's antics, an important election is just around the corner. He'll be out of office soon, but there's no guarantee that his replacement will be better suited to the job. There are nearly a dozen candidates, and few are ideal. From hologram obsessions to shady dealings regarding expensive designer suits, the scandals surrounding a few of the country's most influential candidates are enough to give any voter pause.

John Oliver
Image: HBO

There are a lot of concerning candidates in France, but the most worrisome is easily Marine Le Pen, who has espoused extreme anti-immigrant plans. According to Oliver, her presence in the election causes major déjà vu. He refers to Le Pen as "a potential destabilizing populist campaigning on anti-immigrant rhetoric who rages against the elites despite having a powerful father and inherited wealth."

More: John Oliver Explains Why Our President Hates the Trump in Trumpcare

The parallels don't end there. Pundits claim that there is no way that Le Pen could possibly win the election. Their overconfidence mimics that of Hillary Clinton supporters in early 2016. In other words, France is in for a repeat of Donald Trump.

Americans' chief foreign policy concerns right now are Syria and North Korea, but it's worth paying attention to countries that don't appear to be a significant threat. France's upcoming election could determine the fate of the European Union and perhaps even the global economy. We're glad John Oliver is forcing us to pay attention to the news stories we might otherwise ignore.

Are you surprised by the low, low approval ratings of François Hollande? Comment and share your opinion below.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

daily show correspondents slideshow
Image: ABC Family

Jeff Varner's Former Employer Explains Firing After the Survivor Outing Incident

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It has arguably become the most infamous moment in Survivor's nearly 20-year history, and Jeff Varner is still feeling the effects of his decision. On the most recent episode of Survivor: Game Changers, Varner outed teammate Zeke Smith as transgender, a move that shocked everyone on the show and sent the public into a heated dissection of his actions the following day.

Varner appeared contrite in the episode, despite the deeply damaging effects of his actions and accepted his elimination without a tribe vote. Since the episode aired, Varner has spent time atoning for his actions in interviews. When he spoke to SheKnows, he explained that there was no plan to out Smith and that it happened so quickly: "Emotionally, in my Survivor brain, it just [came out]... I had no expectation of any reaction. I had no expectation of any effect that it would have. It just was something that happened."

More: Zeke Smith Makes Survivor History by Turning a Shocking Moment Into a Triumph

In relation to his public and potentially dangerous outing of Smith, news broke a few days ago that Varner had been fired from his job as a realtor at the Allen Tate Real Estate Company. Varner had only been with the new company mere weeks before he was fired. In a statement, Allen Tate CEO Pat Riley explained the company's decision to Entertainment Tonight. "The Allen Tate Companies were built on core values of honesty, integrity and respect. Those fundamental beliefs led us to end our relationship with Mr. Varner, a real estate agent who had become affiliated with our firm just 17 days earlier."

Jeff Varner Survivor
Image: Robert Voets/CBS

At the time of his firing, Varner branded his former employer's actions as an "ugly knee-jerk reaction," according to Entertainment Tonight. Varner further went on to claim that his former employer had been notified of the episode, which Riley's statement also comments on. "To be clear, at no time before the airing of the Survivor episode on Wednesday evening was our management aware of his actions on that episode," the statement continued. "We make all decisions such as this one with careful consideration of our clients, employees and our agents."

More: Exclusive Interview With Jeff Varner About His Horrific Survivor Mistake

Jeff Varner Eliminated Survivor
Image: Jeffrey Neira/CBS

More: Sandra Diaz-Twine Says She's Still the Best Survivor Player Ever

For now, it seems the matter is settled. With a clarification on Varner's comments coming from his former employer, the message seems pretty clear: What happens on Survivor definitely doesn't stay on Survivor.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Survivor winners slideshow
Image: CBS

What Is 'Restorative Parenting' and Is It Right for You?

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You may have heard of restorative justice — a system of criminal justice that focuses on rehabilitating offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community at large — but what about restorative parenting? According to Denver, Colorado-based nonprofit The Conflict Center, this proactive approach is "intended to use the best of excellent parenting techniques and incorporate the restorative values of empathy, accountability, making things right for everyone in the family."

More: Steal Your Baby's Mindfulness Practice

Author and family and child behavioral expert Dr. Jennifer Freed explained it further. "Restorative parenting refers to a philosophy that emphasizes repairing harm over punishing and shaming," she said. "It’s the commitment to personal accountability for anyone’s mistakes or wrongdoing and the opportunity with the people that they have intentionally or unintentionally harmed to make things right."

Like all parenting approaches, it might not be right for everyone. "It is only effective within families that have an intention to communicate responsibly and to have all members of the family be willing to take full responsibility when they have made mistakes — including the parents," said Freed, who is also co-founder of AHA! (Attitude. Harmony. Achievement), a youth-focused nonprofit that works to end bullying, improve self-esteem and empower teens through emotional learning and creative expression.

"Restorative parenting works seamlessly if the family has decided to approach each situation of harm or wrongdoing as an opportunity for all family members to work together to make things right," added Freed. "If a family does not have the time or inclination to communicate about harms committed and just wants to rule with power and discipline, this approach would not be advised."

If you think restorative parenting might work for your family, how exactly do you put it into practice? "For people to grow from the mistakes they make that harm others, they need to be part of a process where each person can talk about the impact of the harm on themselves and others, can learn to be accountable and compassionate, can demonstrate empathy and respect for other people’s experiences and learn how to forgive by seeing people actually repair the harm they have done," said Freed.

The Conflict Center suggests the following steps: 

1. Empower with enforceable statements

Parents should explain their needs with clarity, love and assertiveness, teach their children how to make their own decisions and set firm limits and clear boundaries with care and compassion.

2. Diffuse with redirection

Instead of following a pattern of punishment and reward, parents should focus on cooperation, collaboration and responsibility to deal with challenging situations. Brainstorming with all members of the family helps to instill values of atonement and empathy.

More: How Going Back to School as a Working Single Mom Can Benefit Your Kids

3. Teach with natural and logical consequences

Logical consequences are objective, impersonal, relate directly to the misbehavior, include an element of choice and focus on the present and future, not the past. When explaining consequences, the tone of voice should be respectful and friendly.

4. Repair with restorative circles

Punitive discipline seeks to answer three questions: What rule was broken? (violation); who broke the rule? (responsibility); and how should they be punished? (resolution). With restorative discipline, the questions are different: What happened and what was the harm? (violation); who is responsible? (responsibility) and what needs to be done to repair the harm? (resolution).

A restorative circle sequence might consist of stating the purpose of the meeting (discussing the problem, taking responsibility and repairing harm); agreeing that there will be no interrupting, blaming or attacking; using a "talking piece" to take turns to share stories; brainstorming solutions; and reaching an agreement. Bear in mind that each person may have different actions that are agreed upon and that the person who has been offended or harmed has to be central to the conflict-resolution process.

Freed explained why restorative parenting is a better approach to discipline than strict punishment. "There are numerous studies from schools who use this approach that demonstrate that youth are much less likely to re-offend when given an opportunity to learn from their mistakes rather than being shunned or punished," she said. "We say, 'Make the pain count!' Strict punishment is still an option if people are not willing to be honest and accountable for their mistakes; however, strict punishment as the only option creates shame, isolation and emotional distance. Punishment blames the person and makes them feel bad and wrong, while restorative approaches look at the cost to relationships of the harmful act and seeks to make everyone whole again."

More: How One Tough Mother Sets Limits on Screen Times

7 Cool Vegan Beauty Products We’re Obsessed With

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OK, excuse us while we Gwyneth Paltrow-out for a second, but have you ever really looked at the ingredients of your favorite beauty products? You know, the teeny-tiny label printed on the back of your BB cream tube with a dozen 16-letter-long ingredients? Welp, if you’ve taken a peek — or spent hours investigating on the internet — you already know that so many of our most-loved beauty products are filled with questionable synthetic ingredients (that are also frequently tested on animals or even contain animal derivatives), all of which can turn some beauty lovers off.

More: A Definitive Guide to the Best Eyebrows on Instagram

But before you start rethinking your makeup obsession, let us introduce you to the world of vegan beauty products, seven of which are so excellent in their own right, they’d deserve a spot on your vanity regardless of what’s on their label. We’re talkin’ exfoliating scrubs formulated with bladderwrack seaweed, French clay and coffee extract and a long-lasting liquid lipstick infused with hemp oil and vitamin E. And all of these gems are both cruelty-free and 100 percent free of animal products (and by-products and derivatives), so you can slather your face with happiness, knowing no animals were harmed in the making of your beauty routine. Scroll through to see our seven favorite vegan beauty products and get ready to make the very painless, wonderful transition to animal loving.

More: How to Wash Your Hair — the Right Way

Flawless skin
Image: ImaxTree

The Seaweed Bath Co. Awaken Exfoliating Detox Scrub

The Seaweed Bath Co. Awaken Exfoliating Detox Scrub
Image: The Seaweed Bath Co.

The Seaweed Bath Co. Awaken Exfoliating Detox Scrub (The Seaweed Bath Co., $14.99)

Pacifica Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream

Pacifica Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream
Image: Pacifica

Pacifica Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream (Pacifica, $16)

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar in Wish

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar in Wish
Image: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar in Wish (Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, $17)

Inika Certified Organic Makeup Remover

Inika Certified Organic Makeup Remover
Image: Inika Organic

Inika Certified Organic Makeup Remover (Inika Organic, $27)

Ella + Mila nail polish in Honeymoon Bliss

Ella + Mila Nail Polish in Honeymoon Bliss
Image: Ella + Mila

Ella + Mila nail polish in Honeymoon Bliss (Ella + Mila, $10.50)

Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments ultra-natural mascara

Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Ultra-Natural Mascara
Image: Juice Beauty

Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments ultra-natural mascara (Juice Beauty, $22)

Spectrum Marbleous 5-piece sculpt set

Spectrum Marbelous 5 Piece Sculpt Set
Image: Spectrum

Spectrum Marbleous 5-piece sculpt set (Spectrum, $44.99)

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

7 Symptoms That Might Indicate Your Period Is Coming

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Wondering when you’re period is going to come but not sure what symptoms to look for? You’ll start to notice your body giving off signals to indicate that menstruation is about to start. This is known PMS, or premenstrual syndrome.

Here are the most common symptoms of PMS and suggestions of how to handle the discomfort.

1. Cramps

Menstrual cramping, also known as dysmenorrhea, is the most common symptom of menstruation and can be identified as a lower abdominal pain that may begin one to two days before your period. Cramps can last up to two to four days, and the severity of the pain may be different for each individual. About 15 percent of women describe their menstrual pains to be severe according to a Medical News Today article.

In most cases, over-the-counter medication or painkillers should put the cramps at ease. However, if you think your menstrual cramps are more severe, contact your doctor to review your options.

More: New marijuana-based capsule aims to eliminate PMS

2. Food cravings

When thinking of food cravings, one word comes to mind — chocolate. Why does it seem that all women crave this sugary substance around that time of the month? According to Psychology Today, hormones released by female gonads, estrogen and progesterone affect every organ in your body, including cravings kicking in.

It’s OK to satisfy your sweet tooth and indulge in chocolate every now and then because you deserve to treat yourself. Just be sure to limit your intake and not go overboard with the sugar.

3. Mood swings

It’s no secret that women tend to experience mood swings or intensified emotions before or during their period; this is where the overused phrase “you’re PMS-ing” comes in. This phrase is often thrown around to offend women or hint that they're being “too emotional,” but mood swings are completely normal, and it’s OK to express your emotions, so let it out.

More: 5 foods you should eat during your period (to calm the rage monster inside)

4. Acne breakouts

As a teen or young adult, you’re prone to hormonal acne as you experience puberty. During a time of growth and development, your hormone levels are fluctuating. Hormones may cause oily skin, which may clog your pores, thus stimulating a breakout. The best way to treat acne is to cleanse your face twice a day. If you think your acne is severe, use products containing salicylic acid or contact your doctor for more information (check out this post).

5. Body aches

Many women tend to experience aches before or during their periods. The most common areas of tenderness include the breasts and lower back. This can be taken care of with painkillers or over-the-counter medication. Take it easy for the next few days and schedule some time to yourself to relax.

6. Bloating

According to the Period Vitamin website, bloating is fluid retention that may result in feeling full or swollen around the waist area, and it can feel uncomfortable or bothersome. Although you cannot fully prevent bloating, you can limit the factors that contribute to bloating.

The best way to eliminate extreme bloating is to keep an eye on your dietary intake, especially salt, sugar and caffeine. Also, exercising will increase blood circulation and will help prevent bloating.

More: 6 PMS symptoms that are (and aren't) normal

7. Fatigue

Although there isn’t a scientific explanation for fatigue around your period, it’s extremely common among women. Some women may have trouble getting a good night’s sleep because of heavy flow or cramps, whether it be because of waking up from pain or going to the bathroom to change a tampon.

If you do have an abnormal flow or unbearable cramps that prevent you from sleep, visit your doctor.

By Katlyn Tolly

Originally published on HelloFlo.com.

All the Times Beyoncé Referenced the Illuminati In the Past Year

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The rumors have been circulating for years, but we still don’t have any solid answers. Are Beyoncé and her husband Jay Z members of the Illuminati, a secret group of influencers who strive to control world events? Or are they totally, totally, totally not?

Beyoncé herself hasn’t spoken out on the subject despite a lot of speculation with one big exception: On one of the singles off of her hit 2016 album Lemonade, she sings: Y'all haters corny with that Illuminati mess.” This seems to imply that the rumors are created by people who don't support her and also that the accusations are so lame and stupid that they don’t deserve much of a response.

And yet  Beyoncé continues to use symbolism that suggests Illuminati ties. Whether she is messing with people, whether people read too much into her every move or whether she is part of some secret group is totally unknown. Let’s look at some of the real evidence we have in the last year that Bey might be up to some secret society action.

More: Does Beyoncé’s Pregnancy Photo Include Secret Hidden Messages? Spoiler: Yes

Her "Die With You" music video

beyonce triple six
Image: Tidal

Earlier this month, Beyoncé released a new touching music video called "Die With You" commemorating her anniversary with Jay Z. The ballad is sweet and simple, while the music video features candid home video footage of the couple throughout the years. However, in the last few seconds, Beyoncé throws a "triple six" sign, which is often associated with the Illuminati. Seems pretty weird, but it also seems pretty weird that someone would throw a highly coded symbol into the end of a touching music video. We are left with the question: Is she in the Illuminati or is she engaged in some magnificent trolling? Or does she just like doing that with her hands?

beyonce die with you

beyonce die with you

Bey’s 2017 Grammy performance

beyonce grammys
Image: WENN

Illuminati conspiracy theorists went haywire during the 59th Grammy Awards when Beyoncé appeared clad in gold with an ornate headdress showing off her pregnant belly. People were claiming that she was twisting Christian symbolism, like halos and Mother Mary, while others said that the performance itself was a Satanic ritual being performed live on television (to be clear, while the original Illuminati are not associated with devil-worship and paganism, modern-day conspiracy theorists often mix the two). Still others said she was portraying an Illuminati goddess in some sort of artistic reenactment, as Rihanna has also been accused of in the past. But wait — if she's part of a super-powerful world order, why did Adele win the Grammy and not her?

beyonce grammy illuminati

beyonce grammy illuminati

More: Dang, Bey, Lemonade is breaking our brains

Her pregnancy announcement and photos

beyonce pregnant

beyonce pregnant

Beyoncé can't even announce that she's having twins without the conspiracy theorists jumping on her back. And let's face it. They really had to stretch for this one. While everyone could agree that Bey's maternity shoot was untraditional, and while she did catch some flak for some of her photo op choices, some people took it the extra step and claimed the pictures and even the announcement date were signs that Beyoncé and fam are members of a secret group. For example, the announcement was made on 2/1/2017, a date comprised of all prime numbers, which were allegedly highly regarded in the past by Illuminati members.

Believers also pointed out that Beyoncé was also sitting so that her body formed a triangle (another Illuminati symbol), but you can call us highly, highly skeptical of that one.

Her Lemonade album and video

OK, I know we said earlier that Lemonade's "Formation" contained a lyric in which Beyoncé denied being in the Illuminati. But in the very same album (and music videos) conspiracy theorists have found dozens of symbols and references to the secret society that is supposedly trying to run the world. As you might guess, some of these symbols and references are more impressive (and creepier) than others. And some are just ridiculous stretches. Still, it raises the question: Is Beyoncé trying to tell us something or is she engaging in some more next-level trolling?

Here's a short list of just some of the Lemonade/Illuminati evidence: 

  • The album came out on a date that is significant to the Illuminati — 13 days before their big May 1 holiday that is the anniversary of their founding in 1776.
  • She wears an Egyptian Ankh symbol on a necklace at one point. Some conspiracy theorists think pretty much anything to do with Egypt is related to the Illuminati, although we are a bit confused about this.
  • At one point, "OWL" is written on a window backwards, and owl symbolism is big in the Illuminati (we hear), because one of their pagan gods is an owl. Again, while the official Illuminati group distances itself from paganism, conspiracy theorists often associate the two, perhaps because they have too much time on their hands.
  • She gives a witch's hex hand signal at one point. We aren't really sure why she keeps doing things with her hands that can be misinterpreted as Illuminati stuff, honestly. We also aren't clear on why the Illuminati keeps getting associated witch things, since their official website (or is it??) explains that they are totally not religious and do not believe in either a god or Satan.

We are not sure what to do with all of this information, honestly. If Beyoncé and Jay Z really wanted to squash these rumors, they could easily do so by releasing a statement (something more than one lyric) saying that they are not associated with any secret societies. They could also perhaps stop making references and using symbols that lead people down the wrong path.

On the other hand, do they really owe us an explanation? And isn't it weird to have to release a statement that you are not trying to run the free world?

And there's another option. Maybe this is all a brilliant, ornate marketing scheme, something to keep people watching and interested. Something to surround the power couple with mystery. Who knows?

More: Beyoncé breaks the internet with her massive twins announcement

OK, what's your opinion? She's in the Illuminati? Or... not?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

39 Celebrities supposedly in the Illuminati
Image: WENN

Why Prince Harry Opening Up About His Mental Health Struggles Is So Important

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When Princess Diana died in 1997, the world lost a beloved advocate and royal, but Princes William and Harry lost their mother. Now, 20 years later, Harry is opening up about his mental health struggles and how he came to grips with Diana’s death.

In a rare interview, Harry discusses how his mother's death when he was 12 years old led to a period of what he called “total chaos” in his life, including a stint in a drug rehabilitation facility when he was 16.

"I can safely say that losing my mum at the age of 12 and therefore shutting down all of my emotions for the last 20 years has had a quite serious effect on not only my personal life but also my work as well," he told The Telegraph in a podcast interview published Sunday.

More: Important Mental Health Takeaways From the S-Town Podcast

Having to grieve his mother’s death was hard enough; doing so in the public eye made him come “very close to a complete breakdown on numerous occasions.”

It took 16 years before Harry sought professional mental health help — and it was William’s suggestion. Now 32, Harry says he’s in a good place after working with counselors and taking up boxing.

As part of the Heads Together initiative — jointly coordinated by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Harry with the aim to end stigma surrounding mental health — Harry gave a candid 30-minute interview on a podcast called Mad World where high-profile guests will discuss their mental health experiences.

Here’s why Harry addressing his mental health is so important.

1. Grief and mental health struggles really can affect anyone

Yes, the world may have mourned the loss of Princess Diana, but Harry handled it on his own time — and that’s OK. Grief knows no bounds and can affect anyone of any background — including royals.

2. There is no one “correct” way to grieve

Despite having access to some of the best resources in the world, Harry put off dealing with his mother’s death throughout his teens and most of his 20s. His grief 16 years after his mother’s passing is just as valid as the day she died, and the fact that he’s talking about it now — at 32 — sends a powerful message that mourning is an ongoing process, not something that ends after a memorial service.

More: Activism Fatigue & the Mental Aftermath of All Those Marches

“My way of dealing with it was sticking my head in the sand, refusing to ever think about my mum, because why would that help?” Harry said in the interview. “[I thought] it’s only going to make you sad, it’s not going to bring her back… So I was a typical 20, 25, 28-year-old running around going ‘life is great’ or ‘life is fine’ and that was exactly it. And then [I] started to have a few conversations and actually all of a sudden, all of this grief that I have never processed started to come to the 
forefront and I was like, there is actually a lot of stuff here that I need to deal with.”

3. Seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness

Harry talks about how it was his brother, William, who urged him to talk to a mental health professional about his challenges.

“It’s all about timing. And for me personally, my brother, you know, bless him, he was a huge support to me. He kept saying, 'This is not right. This is not normal. You need to talk to [someone] about stuff. It’s OK,'” Harry said in the interview. “The timing wasn’t right. You need to feel it in yourself, you need to find the right person to talk to as well.”

More: Why You Should Think Twice About 23andMe's New DNA Test for Diseases

But he clarifies this, saying: “I can’t encourage people enough to just have that conversation because you will be surprised firstly how much support you get and secondly how many people literally are longing for you to come out.”

If you or someone you know (in the United States) is thinking of harming themselves or others, please contact the National Suicide Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or via their online chat service.

For anyone in the U.K. experiencing mental health problems, you can contact Heads Together by phone 0300 123 3393 or by email at info@mind.org.uk or text 86463.

Mom Replies Brilliantly to Body-Shaming Sales Pitch

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When you first drag your postpartum self out of the house, newborn in tow, attention is pretty much the last thing you're craving from total strangers. But teeny, tiny babies have a way of being conversation starters.

So when Kelly Howland and brand-new baby were roaming the aisle at her local Target and a woman stopped to chat, Howland at first thought nothing much of it. That is, until the stranger started a body-shaming sales pitch for It Works, a "skin care and nutrition" company — known for its supposed fat-shrinking body wraps. Ugh.

More: Fighting body shame as a woman

"I'm a brand new postpartum mom," Howland said on Facebook. "And then she asks The Question: 'Have you heard of It Works before?' I tell her that I know what it is but I've never utilized it. She proceeds with artificial shock and surprise and gives me her card and her spiel."

Kelly Howland

Kelly Howland

It Works promises that its products will "change your life." But Howland's perfectly happy with her life — something the roaming salesperson certainly didn't take into account when she suggested Howland really needed to work on her looks.

We think Howland wrote brilliantly about what went down (and more kindly than we might have had it happened to us):

"Listen. I'm not upset this company exists. And I'm not even upset at this woman because she could be absolutely charming and just trying to hustle her own living and I have respect for a woman with guts to do that," she wrote. "But let's not pretend that approaching me specifically was a coincidence."

And there's the rub: Howland pointed out that the stranger wasn't approaching every woman at the Target to hawk her wares. This was far from a coincidence in Howland's obviously very newly postpartum state. This is predatory marketing, and it's not cool.

"We all know that this culture hammers into postpartum women a lot of physical insecurity about their bodies after delivering their miracles from their wombs," Howland added. "I don't think I have to spell out for a single woman the cultural pressure that postpartum mothers face regarding their physical appearance. We know. We all know. She knew. And that's why she approached me."

More: We love celebrity moms who are celebrating their postpartum bodies

We are deeply impressed by Howland's articulate plea for everyone — individuals and companies — to call a halt to expectations that foster insane insecurities in new mothers.

"Instead of leaning into superficial ideals imposed upon us, can we PLEASE start bucking the system and instead start praising each other for being the amazing, life giving, creation birthing vessels that we are?" she wrote. "Can we just offer each other adoration of the amazing things that we've accomplished and see our physical changes as marks of phenomenal accomplishment that only our sex has the privilege of experiencing?"

Our answer is a resounding YES. And a high-five. Well said, Kelly Howland.


Janet Jackson Releases First (Adorable) Pic of Her Son

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Janet Jackson just posted the first photo of herself with her infant son, Eissa, in the wake of news of her divorce from Wissam Al Mana, and oh, boy, it's a winner. Divorce? What divorce? Eissa has us forgetting all about the divorce news. That is a face. A smooshable, lovable face. We are reduced to making cooing noises at our computers. Eissa, what have you done to us?

More: All Hail, Janet Jackson's Baby Is Born

We've waited 14 weeks to get a glimpse of Miss Jackson's baby boy, and oh, was it worth it. She posted the shot late this past Friday on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. And we can't blame her for wanting to make sure no one missed this shot. Hey, little buddy!

Janet with baby

Janet with baby

In the picture, Jackson's smooching Eissa, which is a thing we want to do. Eissa, meanwhile, is mid-yawn and pretty much so sweet we want to eat him. (Disclaimer: We will not actually eat this child. How would we even get our hands on him? No, seriously, can you tell us?) 

More: Janet Jackson and Her New Baby Are Being Waited on Hand and Foot

The Jackson-Al Mana divorce news is fresh, just weeks old, but Eissa is the cutest lil' yawner and pretty much all we care about right now.

Is Orlando Bloom Dating Nina Dobrev, Bromancing Leonardo DiCaprio or Both?

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When you're Orlando Bloom, you probably don't need to spend a lot of time being single unless you specifically want to be single — he's just that beautiful.

More: Orlando Bloom Is Sad You Saw His Junk

And after breaking things off with his longtime casual boo Katy Perry, Bloom clearly only sort of wants to be single.

Reports say he's moved on to going naked paddle boarding with Nina Dobrev, and can we just pause for a second and think about the ridiculously perfect babies that combination of genes would make? Good Lord.

Unfortunately, that's probably premature to be thinking about. Sources at People magazine say Bloom and Dobrev are definitely hanging out or dating or something, but they're making sure to keep things "super casual."

More: Has Anyone Asked Orlando Bloom How He Feels About Katy Perry's Baby Fever?

"They've known each other for a while," the insider said. "Recently they've been hanging out as more than friends. It's super casual."

So before anyone gets too excited, Bloom and Dobrev sound like they might be, like, going out now and then and booty calling each other on the reg. The source says they're definitely not exclusive and that Bloom "doesn't want a girlfriend and enjoys being single," because of course he does — all the good ones are anti-commitment.

But... Is it possible that the reason Bloom can't commit to Dobrev is that he's already committed to someone else? Is Bloom already taken by a surprising new bromance... with Leo DiCaprio?

This photo of them broing out so hard at Coachella just emerged, and honestly, they must be in a brolationship. Just look at them:

Orlando Bloom and Leo DiCaprio in a brolationship

Orlando Bloom and Leo DiCaprio in a brolationship

Notice Bloom's very obvious shirtlessness and his sweats riding so low he's about to have another paddleboard moment. He's clearly trying to get someone's attention, like perpetual thirst-trap Leo DiCaprio, because if Leo DiCaprio is in the room, you pay no attention to anyone or anything else, not even all those snacks they've clearly been sharing.

More: What's with the Huge Rock Katy Perry's Wearing on her Ring Finger?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Orlando Bloom has dated 'em all — models, co-stars, pop stars & Lindsay Lohan
Image: Dennis Van Tine/Future Image/WENN.com

Brightsiding Is Also Gaslighting

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When was the last time you felt hopeless, like your soul was sucked dry, and then someone came along and told you to look on the bright side? Maybe it came as an enumeration of all of the wonderful things in your life. Maybe you were reminded that you don’t have cancer.

Brightsiding is a subcategory of gaslighting, which you probably know about by now. The important thing to remember is that if you tell someone who is in pain to be happy instead, you make alleviating your discomfort the most important thing in the situation.

More: Turns Out Period Synching Is a Menstrual Myth

Ten years ago, Barbara Ehrenreich wrote an article in Harper’s that started with, “I hate hope.” Her piece was about the aggressive cult of positive thinking aimed at people with cancer who can no longer be told, “At least you don’t have cancer.” That’s where brightsiding peaks, and Ehrenreich’s anger at it was a revelation for me. Her essay became a book called Bright-Sided about reckless optimism and the damage it can do.

My situation was less dramatic, but my positive thinking had almost destroyed me. At the time, I was trying to fight my way out of six years of being undermined, bullied and (occasionally) threatened during a doctoral program I feared had no place for me even though I hoped that I could make one.

Being brightsided, always told to look for positives, to prove the doubters wrong was a way to drag my attention away from the reality of the hole I was in. I practically lived in therapy. I even tried acupuncture, trying to fix my terrible attitude and my deteriorating mental health. I wrote furiously. I carved out niche after niche only to be forced to accept that my hand had been dealt, my niches were a form of confinement, and it had become dangerous to believe I could fix it if I kept looking for positives.

More: Important Mental Health Takeaways from the S-Town Podcast

I probably could have finished in six months, but it was clear my department would never let me submit. There was no choice but to quit and save what little remained of my sense of self. The reason I left was that it was hopeless. The reason I stayed so long was because I, naively, wasn’t. Hope had been an enabler, not a light.

The bright side is just another gaslight. It’s telling someone who is being force-fed a shit sandwich that they should appreciate the free lunch.

It’s hard to be around pain, especially the kind of fear and grief you can’t fix. You want people you love to have hope, but hope requires a sense of safety that they might not have. Requesting their optimism can sound like a preface to abandonment and can make a person feel less safe.

The bright side is about you. Making "suggestions" is about you. It's you asking someone to do emotional labor for you when they're all out of juice and draining them of whatever is left so you don't have to challenge your own narratives about who deserves to feel hurt or to prove you know how to avoid this kind of pain. I wish I could undo all the unsolicited advice and suggestions and silver linings I’ve inflicted on people my whole life.

People don’t need to be told they just didn't manifest it with enough positivity. That they took the wrong steps. That their negative attitude is to blame. To stop analyzing so much and just get on with things. To try the thing that you would do, which might make them feel better. (It won’t.)

More: Talking About Depression Is Good — Investing in Mental Health Is Better

Unsolicited advice, the bright side’s lecherous roommate, is always a boundary violation. When someone is vulnerable, it’s a power move. Even unintentionally, it’s anything from annoying to terrifying. Advice insists a situation can be fixed, and giving it negates anything you’ve done to say that it’s not their fault.

Of course we should try to feel positive, and it’s great to be in a place where it feels safe to hope, but sometimes that’s the very thing that got us into this mess. We can’t demand that someone look at the light if we’re refusing to look at the hole.

Mall Cops Tell Woman She Can't Breastfeed in the Mall — They're Wrong

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Oh, hell no, Short Pump Town Center Mall. Ashley Cooper isn't budging from that bench.

In a week of stunning public-relations fallout (helllooooooo, United Airlines — how's your stock doing today?), you'd think maybe companies across the U.S. would be a little more hands-off, a little more sensitive to the diverse humanity that keeps them profitable.

Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

This time, it's Short Pump Town Center Mall that really needs to get its security guards on the same page as most of the rest of the 21st century. Mall guards harassed Ashley Cooper — a very chill mother of two, including one nursing infant — and demanded that she stop breastfeeding her baby unless she went into the designated "nursing room" at the mall. (That was already occupied. Because, hey, there's one. So attentive to mothers' needs!)

bf mom

bf mom

More: Breastfeeding shamers hit a new low this time around

But Cooper knew her rights and calmly refused to leave her spot on a bench in a quiet corner of the mall. She told guards, "In the state of Virginia, I can breastfeed anywhere I'm legally allowed to be." And she continued breastfeeding her 8-month-old baby — and began live-streaming the encounter on Facebook. How d'you like them apples, Short Pump Town Center Mall? (Seriously bad PR move, you guys. Get with the program.)

In the video, appalled bystanders approached Cooper to offer their support and ask if she needed assistance. Nope. (In fact, Cooper had told her husband to stay in line to see the Easter Bunny with their 3-year-old. She's got this, people. Everyone stand down.)

More: Mom slammed for (gasp!) letting Boy Scouts see her nursing discreetly

This video should be suggested viewing for all nursing moms as a primer in breastfeeding rights — and refusing to be intimidated. May the Ashley be with you.

15 Dog Breeds That Don't Bark Excessively and Will Keep Your Neighbors Happy

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Getting complaints from neighbors about your dog barking too much is pretty much every pet owner's worst nightmare — and being kept up all night yourself with said barking isn't exactly all rainbows and butterflies either. Thank God not all dog breeds are created equal when it comes to noise.

Look, loud dogs do have their advantages — dogs with big barks are awesome for chasing away intruders, for example — but more often than not, a sweet dog who quietly keeps you company is ideal. It's not that we don't love chatty breeds with tons of personality, but dogs that bark their butts off can be a deal-breaker.

If you're looking for a strong silent type, these well-known quiet breeds could be your perfect canine match.

1. Basenji

Basenji
Image: kanonn/Flickr

Renowned as the "barkless dog," the Basenji instead makes a noise akin to a yodel when it gets excited. Though not a barker, this entertaining canine is high-energy and can be quite the ham if allowed.

2. Afghan Hound

Afghan hound
Image: Martine Roch/Getty Images

One of the most beautiful and elegant of canines, the Afghan is a highly intelligent dog that bonds deeply with its family. Though known for doing all things to the extreme, barking excessively is not part of its repertoire.

More: Top 14 Small Dog Breeds for People Who Prefer the Tinier Things in Life

3. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff
Image: 900hp/Flickr

This large and lovable, mild-mannered canine is protective of its family pack and tends to do more drooling, snorting and snuffling than barking.

4. Scottish Deerhound

Scottish deerhound
Image: rogerpilkington/Getty Images

This family-friendly dog has the heart of a hunter (a deer hunter, to be exact), but has an endearing quiet and dignified personality when in the home. Though you won't have to worry about excessive barking, you will have to keep your pup reined in when it's around scurrying furry critters.

5. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Image: f8grapher/Getty Images

The Rhodie is the strong, silent type that uses its size and might to defend its family pack. Though an exceptional hunter who loves outdoor exercise, this pawed pal can't wait to be curled up on the couch and cuddled.

Next Up: Chinese Shar-Pei

Originally published January 2014. Updated April 2017.

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6. Chinese Shar-Pei

Chinese Shar-Pei
Image: Jolanta Petraityte/EyeEm/Getty Images

The most wrinkly dog by far, the Shar-Pei is a quiet pup that is deeply devoted to its owner and only barks when playing or danger seems imminent.

7. Borzoi

Borzoi
Image: ROVER_JP/Flickr

A fave pick for a gal that wants her pawed pal to be enviably photogenic, the Borzoi is a gorgeous and graceful dog that is typically quiet and well-mannered. However, be prepared to get your exercise since this beautiful canine loves to play.

More: 10 Small Dog Breeds That Are Great With Children

8. Akita

Akita
Image: Yuki Cheung/EyeEm/Getty Images

The Akita is a large, powerful and alert dog originating in Japan, where it is one of the dog breeds designated as a national monument. This furry pal is also referred to as the "silent hunter" in Japan and will generally keep quiet unless there is serious reason for alarm.

9. Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniel
Image: audrey_sel/Flickr

One look at the Clumber Spaniel and you may think he just doesn't have the oomph to bark. This large cuddly canine lives by the adage "slow and steady wins the race." The largest of the Spaniel breeds, this dog typically don't bark unless true danger is present.

10. Mastiff

Mastiff
Image: Ivan Zhirnov/EyeEm/Getty Images

The handsome Mastiff is a gentle giant that, thankfully, doesn't back up its size with giant barks. This massive canine may be a drooler, but it isn't going to have your neighbors calling the authorities for a noise complaint.

Next Up: Greyhound

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11. Greyhound

Greyhound
Image: liz west/Flickr

The fastest in the dog world, the Greyhound is also a loyal companion who doesn't see barking excessively as a way of life.

12. Saluki

Saluki
Image: Renée Johnson/Flickr

A graceful canine, the Saluki is a high-energy dog that will instinctively run after anything that moves. However, this gorgeous dog is a calm, quiet companion when it's been adequately exercised.

13. Bulldog

Bulldog
Image: Chase Elliott Clark/Flickr

Despite its sour-mug face, the Bulldog is a gentle, lovable canine that is an excellent family pet that won't annoy you with unnecessary barking.

More: 10 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Will Save You From a Whole Lot of Sniffles

14. Irish Wolfhound

Irish wolfhound
Image: Westend61/Getty Images

A canine giant, the Irish Wolfhound isn't an excessive barker, but it will take over your comfy furniture and eat up your dog food budget.

15. Great Dane

Great Dane
Image: philhearing/Flickr

If allowed or if ignored by your too-busy schedule, the Great Dane will develop an annoyingly attention-getting bark. However, this lovably large pup is generally not a nuisance barker.

Important note: Though some dog breeds are known for being less inclined to bark excessively, any dog can become a nuisance barker if it isn't well-trained or it isn't getting the attention it needs. If your dog is a compulsive barker, regardless of breed, talk to your vet or a dog training expert to determine the cause and find ways to help your pup understand there's an appropriate time and place for barking (and constantly isn't one of them).

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

16 Quiet dog breeds so you can have some peace and quiet
Image: Elliot Freeman/Flickr
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