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Chris Soules Knew the Man Involved in the Fatal Car Crash and Other Updates

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Updated April 27, 2017, 11:30 a.m. PT: According to sources who live near Chris Soules in Iowa, Soules knew the victim of the deadly crash that led to his arrest.

"Everyone around here is in shock," a family member of Kenneth Mosher, the man killed in the crash, told Radar Online. "He knew them, they're neighbors. We're feeling very sad, everyone knows Chris' family."

The relative added, "We're trying to figure out why he left the scene. This is something he has to share and the rest of us can only speculate. What was going through his head? It is a bad day."

Meanwhile, Soules was forced to surrender his passport and is wearing an electronic ankle monitor at his home while he awaits his next court date. An insider told Us Weekly that Soules "had plans to leave the country."

Updated April 26, 2017, 8:45 a.m. PT: Chris Soules has broken his silence on his involvement in a fatal crash on Monday — sort of.

A spokesperson for the former Bachelor star issued a statement, saying, "Chris Soules was involved in an accident Monday evening (April 24) in a rural part of Iowa near his home. He was devastated to learn that Kenneth Mosher, the other person in the accident, passed away. His thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Mosher’s family."

In the wake of the scandal, Soules has also deleted his Instagram account, though his Twitter and Facebook pages were still active as of Wednesday morning.

Original story:

Former Bachelor star Chris Soules has been arrested following his involvement in a fatal car crash, sources say.

More: Does Chris Soules Regret His Whitney Bischoff Breakup?

According to TMZ, Soules was arraigned Tuesday morning on a charge of leaving the scene of a fatal accident. The accident reportedly happened around 8:20 p.m. on Monday night in Iowa, about 15 miles south of Soules' Arlington farm. Court documents say he was driving a Chevy pickup and rear-ended a John Deere tractor, causing it to crash in a ditch. The driver of the tractor was reportedly taken by ambulance to a hospital where he died. Reports say Soules left the scene.

Chris Soules arraignment in drunk driving crash

Chris Soules arraignment in drunk driving crash

Witnesses who saw the crash happen identified Soules and called police to report that he was involved according to an incident report obtained by TMZ.

More: Chris Soules Fans Are Freaking Out Thanks to His New... Wedding Ring? (PHOTO)

According to local station KWWL TV, police later found Soules at a residence (they don't specify whether it was his own home or someone else's), but it was hours after the accident because of the time it took to obtain a search warrant. Police records say Soules was "in possession of alcoholic beverage containers" when the crash happened, but we don't know whether he had open containers in his vehicle. Because it took police so long to take Soules into custody, reports say it's going to be hard to prove whether he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

Soules was previously convicted of driving while intoxicated in 2006.

The Buchanan County attorney told KWWL TV that Soules has not been cooperating with law enforcement. He posted his $10,000 bail and has reportedly been released from custody with a preliminary hearing set for May 2.

More: 7 Things Rumer Willis and Chris Soules Actually Have in Common


Can Women Have Wet Dreams?

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My eyes pop open in the middle of the night. I am flushed and wide awake. For a moment, I think the sexy encounter I just experienced happened for real. I guess it kind of did; a tantalizing dream (involving strangers and people I know alike) bringing me to orgasm in my sleep feels pretty damn real.

This usually happens during a full moon or right before my menstrual cycle starts a few times a year. I wish it happened more. Partly because after such a satisfying experience (who doesn't want to orgasm without actually having to do anything every once in awhile?), I am able to come down from my climactic high and fall into a delicious sleep, but mostly because orgasms are wonderful. And when experienced while you are sleeping at the same time, well, they are simply... orgasmic.

I climaxed for the first time in my sleep in my early 20s. I had heard of wet dreams, of course. People talk and joke about those all the time; but women having a wet dream? I'd never heard anyone mention such a thing. Does it happen to anyone else? Am I having them because I orgasm easily? Do I have magic powers? How can I make this happen more? And of course, the biggest question women always ask themselves when something unfamiliar happens to them, am I normal?

If you have climaxed in your sleep, yes, you are in fact very normal. And if you haven't, well, you are normal too — just missing out a bit.

When a woman climaxes in her sleep, it's a beautiful thing, but information on the subject is scarce. I asked a few ladies what their experiences and thoughts were on the subject.

"I wish I could say I had these! I used to have super-intense sexy dreams (no orgasm, though) about my old boss, which is weird because he was a dick." — Susan, 42

"I have experienced this, but what happens to me is that I almost have an orgasm but I can't. In my dream, something keeps happening to cut the sex short before I have an orgasm. When I wake up, I am raring to go, which works out really well for my husband. — Brenda, 39

"Yes, I have had these, especially during pregnancy!" — Violet. 32

"I have them once a year or so. I wish I had them every night!" — Stacy, 35

"This happened to me once. One of my first nights I slept with my (now) husband. I woke up thinking I needed to marry this man, so I did!" — Kara, 28

"I have them once a month around my period." — Becky, 25

"I get them 2 to 4 times a month. Oftentimes, they are very painful, but when they are good, they are good." — Deb, 34

SheKnows asked Dr. Sherry A. Ross, MD and author of, She-ology: The Definitive Guide to Women's Intimate Health. Period., the forward of which was written by Reese Witherspoon, a few questions about climaxing in our sleep, and here's what she had to say.

SheKnows: What is happening to our bodies when we climax in our sleep? How are we able to do this without any touching?

Dr. Sherry Ross: Hands-free orgasms for women can happen while you sleep. Unlike men, women’s sexual desire, excitement and energy tend to begin in that great organ above the shoulders, rather than the one below the waist. A woman’s orgasm is mainly psychologically driven. This also applies to orgasm happening while you sleep. A sex dream awakens the brains, which starts the cascade effect leading to orgasm. Often sexual dreams can begin a sexual response ending in an orgasm. Some women will wake themselves up to feeling rhythmic vaginal contractions and wetness.

SK: Why are wet dreams more common in men?

SR: Wet dreams occur when men ejaculate while they sleep. They begin during puberty when the male hormone testosterone kicks into high gear creating sperm. Male erections commonly occur spontaneously throughout the day and night. In order for the sperm build-up to be released, ejaculation occurs. Women do not have an equivalent bodily function. Wet dreams are more common in men who do not have a steady sex partner or masturbate regularly.

SK: Some women described these dreams as being painful. What do you think causes pain? Climaxing is supposed to be wonderful!

SR: Women may experience painful orgasms while sleeping if they are closer to getting a period or known to have a history of excruciating cramps and orgasms around this time of the menstrual cycle. Another thought is since you and your uterus are in such a relaxed state during sleep, once you have a sleep orgasm, it has a more forceful impact on the uterus causing stronger and more painful cramps.

So tonight and every night, I will be wishing all the women of the world sweet dreams.

Here’s Exactly How to Use Retinol Without Killing Your Face

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By now, you’ve been told at least 3,000 times that retinol is the single most magical skin care product ever invented and you must use it immediately lest your face shrivel up in a pit of wrinkles and dark spots and sadness. But has anyone really told you how to use retinoids (the umbrella name for all vitamin A derivatives like retinol) correctly? We’re not talkin’ “use as directed,” or “use until irritation occurs, then stop using,” but rather, easy-to-follow directions for how to use retinoids without your skin peeling off? Probably not.

So we’re fixing that today with step-by-step instructions so even the most scared and confused of retinoid beginners can hop on the antiaging bandwagon without fearing that their faces will flake off. Keep reading to find out exactly how to dab on your favorite Benjamin Button product tonight.

How to retinols
Image: ImaxTree

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Step 1: Start with a ridiculously gentle formula

“But I want these wrinkles gone now,” you whine. We know, but trust us when we say that starting with a milder formula will still give you the same results over time. “You absolutely do not need prescription-strength retinoids to get the same effects in collagen production and cell turnover,” says dermatologist and badass Mona Gohara, noting that yes, you’ll probably see results from using an intense, high-dose prescription product a little faster, but in the process, you could also irritate your skin to pieces (literally).

Instead, Gohara recommends starting with retinaldehyde (like Avéne Retrinal 0.1 Intensive Cream), one of the mildest of all the retinoids, or the very gentle retinyl palmitate (like Exuviance Vespera Bionic Serum), both of which will still produce noticeable results within two or three months without burning your skin off. But before you run away to slather it all over your face…

Step 2: Only use a tiny amount on totally dry skin

Unlike the way you approach margaritas and bottomless tortilla chips, less really is more when it comes to retinoids. After cleansing and patting down your face at night, wait a few minutes to guarantee that your skin is totally dry — “damp skin can interfere with how much retinol is absorbed, which can result in irritation,” says Gohara — then squeeze a pea-size dab of retinol into your palm. Using your fingers, smooth the retinol over your face, starting first with your forehead (the skin there is less sensitive, so it can take a stronger dose if you accidentally apply too much), then moving on to your nose, cheeks, and chin.

After a full 20 minutes has passed, smooth on your usual serums and moisturizers, making sure to avoid any acne-fighting products (aka anything that includes benzoyl peroxides or salicylic acids) unless you want to play fast and loose with irritation. If you’re already terrified that your sensitive skin will freak out and melt off, you can first apply a moisturizer, wait 20 minutes and then apply your retinoid to water down its potency.

Clear skin
Image: ImaxTree

Step 3: Now wait an entire week until you use it again

Hey, you wanted the real, no-bullshit guide to retinoids, right? Unless your skin is made of steel and has never felt sensitive once in its life, err on the side of caution and follow Gohara’s 1-2-3 rule: Use once a week for one week, twice a week for two weeks, then three times a week for three weeks. If, and this is a big if, your skin has had zero reactions thus far (no burning, itching, redness or irritation), bump up your usage to every other night, and then keep it there for a few months before attempting nightly usage. If your skin starts feeling overly sensitive at any stage of the 1-2-3 process, take a step back down (i.e. move from three times a week back to two times a week) and chill there for a while. This isn’t a race — you’ll ideally be using retinoids for the next 50-plus years of your life, and studies have found that even super-low-strength retinoids had the same antiaging effects on skin as moderate retinoids over the same length of time. So take it slow and listen to your skin.

Guys, we wish we could say there were more steps, but it really is that simple. Just play by the rules and nobody gets hurt… ideally. And if you’re still leery of using retinoids, a vitamin C serum (like Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C) will help stimulate collagen production while also protecting skin against wrinkles and dark spot-causing free radicals. It’s nowhere near as powerful as retinoids, but it will still improve your skin tone over time. And with this knowledge, you may now go forth into the world a shining young thing.

More: How to Apply Concealer for Dark Circles in 3 Easy Steps (With GIFs!)

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

You Can Now Make Reservations at the Taco Bell Test Kitchen

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We live in an age of crazy food trends, from Taco Bell burrito wrapper wedding dresses to Unicorn Frappuccinos (eye roll). The latest of those trends, in brick-and-mortar form, is that the Taco Bell test kitchen in Irvine, California, is now accepting reservations. So if you're looking for a super-trendy place to impress a new date (or your date just really loves Taco Bell), look no further.

Starting on Cinco de Mayo, there will be 32 reservations available to TBTK for a tasting event on May 19 that will feature brand-new products that haven't been released to the public yet along with new takes on your Taco Bell favorites — all free of charge.

More: Would You Wear a Burrito Wrapper Dress to Win a Free Wedding? This Woman Did

We're all sick of prime rib and molten chocolate lava cakes. That's why the Taco Bell test kitchen, home of culinary innovations like the Naked Chicken Chalupa and Doritos Locos Tacos, is the perfect place to take your foodie fiancé or burrito-loving BFF. It's not highbrow, sure, but it's a hell of a lot more interesting than the food being served up at a lot of standard date-night spots.

More: Taco Bell Crunchwrap Cheeto Sliders are here

Luckily, Taco Bell test kitchen isn't holding just one tasting. They plan to host a few more events throughout the year, so that more than just the lucky 32 can taste the new creations coming out of the most creative kitchen in the country.

I mean, any chef who can dream up the Triple Double Crunchwrap and Cinnabon Delights has surely got more than a little magic still up their sleeve, and I for one am dying for the chance to get a taste.

More: Taco Bell's Quesalupa: The deep, dark secret behind its hot new menu item

Help Name April the Giraffe's Baby, Because What Else Are You Doing?

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Oh, don't even try to pretend you're not invested in the name of April the Giraffe's adorable baby boy. We saw you there, bleary-eyed and slamming Red Bull and monitoring the April birth cam for a month straight. You put in a lot of time being a virtual doula. So why shouldn't you have a say in the (not-so-) little guy's name?

After a first phase of open voting, Animal Adventure Park has revealed the top 10 names submitted to its "Name April's Baby Boy" contest, and it's time to vote on them. Get your popcorn and see which ones strike your fancy.

April the Giraffe and calf

April the Giraffe and calf

More: One mom's April the Giraffe spoof went viral

In alphabetical order, here are the top choices. Disclaimer: We have STRONG FEELINGS about baby names — even giraffe baby names — and we will not apologize for them.

“Alyssa’s Choice”
If this option wins, the calf’s keeper, Alyssa, will get to name the calf, which actually sounds totally fair to us. Because, have you tried to babysit a child that's already three times your size? Alyssa deserves a little extra say in the matter, at least, we think.

Apollo
Pretty sure he was not the god of giraffes, but OK.

Geoffrey
Those of you who like English breakfast tea and Benedict Cumberbatch, take heed. But it's also the name of the Toys R Us mascot, which could totally land the little lad (and the zoo) the ultimate corporate sponsorship.

Gio
Cute and Italian, like a Vespa.

Harpur
What up with that spelling, Harpurians?

Noah
How biblical! We see what you did there, ark lovers.

Ollie
Ollie Ollie Giraffenfree is totally a thing, right?

Patch
Pirates or Robin Williams as Patch Adams? Nope, hard pass.

Patches
He's a giraffe, not a quilt, you guys.

Unity
For the love of God, let us honor April's exhausting 15-month pregnancy and birthing with something befitting of a strapping giraffe and not a Yankee Candle scent.

More: We're living for April the Giraffe's live-cam birth

Fans can now vote for their favorites — and each vote will set you back a buck, with a minimum of five votes per entry. We think that really means your vote costs five bucks to get into the fray, but OK. It's for a really good cause. All proceeds will go to giraffe conservation and the care of Animal Adventure Park residents. And somebody has to be sure this poor baby boy doesn't get named Unity or Harpur with a U.

You have until April 30. Get naming, friends! The name will probably be announced on May 1, and you can see how he feels about it on May 2, when the livestream will be up and running once more. Place your bets now.

Robert De Niro Learning Snapchat Is Basically All of Us Over 25

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Snapchat is one of the most bewildering apps I've ever learned to use. I'm not a Luddite by any means, but my God, they give you literally no clue about how the hell to use it! They really make you earn those ridiculous filters.

For the entire first day I had Snapchat, I was just blindly swiping and snapping and posting and Googling what all the strange icons popping up next to people's names meant. I didn't need a thick instruction manual or anything, but geez, would it have killed them to have given us a brief walk-through when we first signed up?

And yes, I am aware that this makes me sound incredibly old. I'm aware that by saying this, I'm basically waving my cane at teenagers and ranting about their newfangled technology and how it doesn't make sense. But by saying this, I also finally have something in common with esteemed actor Robert De Niro (aside from our mutual loathing of Donald Trump, that is).

More: Donald Trump Made Robert De Niro a Very Angry Man

In a video posted to People's Facebook page this morning, De Niro is joined by Alex Berry (a finalist in the Tribeca Snapchat Shorts category, which is a real thing that I just learned about right now) who announces that he’s going to be teaching De Niro how to use Snapchat.

De Niro’s face says it all:

Robert De Niro Snapchat
Image: People

Bewildered. Exhausted. Too old for this shit.

(Unrelated: Is anyone else always super-thrown off when De Niro’s friends call him “Bob”? I can’t decide whether it’s because he’s always referred to professionally as “Robert” or because the roles he has played just do not lend themselves to a man named “Bob,” but I always find myself mildly disconcerted when I hear this. Like, who?! Anyway. I digress.)

After a few questions about the app (“The beauty of Snapchat is that your photos immediately disappear” says Berry, “Even when you send them to your friends?” asks a De Niro, who clearly has no idea why you’d want a photo to disappear), De Niro is game and he is quickly transformed into the most basic of basic bitches by way of Snapchat’s (in)famous puppy filter.

Robert De Niro 2
Image: People

The sight of screen legend De Niro blithely wearing the puppy filter widely favored by sorority girls and Tinderellas everywhere brings me odd amounts of joy. I wish I had a high-res image of his face with this filter so I could frame it and hang it above my dining room table. I love it that much.

More: Check out Robert De Niro's First Vine Video!

Next, De Niro tries out the filter favored by exhausted moms everywhere because it smooths out our undereye circles to look virtually nonexistent. And as Alex helpfully illustrates, De Niro truly does look flawless

Robert De Niro 3
Image: People

Bob” tries on a few more filters — a panda, a voice changer — and looks genuinely amused by the whole process. I for one think that his upbeat demeanor is only because he had an adorable young dude to show him the ropes while I had to fumble around on my own, sweating and cursing the stupid app for making me feel every second of my 33 years on this Earth.

More: Robert De Niro Shares Memories of His Gay Father

So, good for you, De Niro! Add me to your friends list, will you? And as for you, Snapchat, consider hiring out cutie-pie Alex to give the how-to lowdown to your other elderly users, hmm?

Your Interest in Threesomes Could Be Based on Your Income of All Things

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Kink is becoming quite the thing after a long history of stigma and taboo. Openly being into adventurous sex in 2017 is as common as hitting up Whole Foods. And both have something else in common too — people with deep pockets are the likeliest ones to engage. According to new research, people with higher incomes are likelier to be into inviting a third person into bed, per a new study by dating app 3somer (which, full disclosure, helps hook people up with potential threesome partners).

"Rich people have more sex, and threesomes are the top sex fantasy, mostly due to curiosity. All of these factors combined indicate that rich people are more likely to have threesomes," says 3somer co-founder John Martinuk. Rich people have more sex. That’s QUITE the statement.

More: Stealthing Is the Creepy Sexual Assault Trend We Need to Talk About

The study found that people in higher income brackets are more likely to have threesomes than those in lower brackets. Awesome. So, threesomes are apparently elitist now. Who knew? If you have a yacht, you may have a threesome. If you don’t, you may only have vanilla sex. Sounds legit (eye roll).

Check out this map to see where the app is used most and where all the rich kinksters are located. I'm looking at you, Texas Republicans.

Kink Infographic
Image: PRNewswire.com

So, where did your state net out? I guess somewhat unsurprisingly, New Yorkers are the ones using 3somer the most. Hey, we like to explore our sexual horizons in the Big Apple, OK? New York has a 2015 GDP per capita of $72,965. Second to New York in terms of threesome engagement are New Jersey and California. These two states also follow New York for highest GDP per capita: $64,070 and $61,924, respectively. I know. New Jersey? I guess there isn’t anything else to do there besides get down and dirty.

More: After a Breakup, Literally Doing Anything Is Better Than Nothing

5 Productivity Hacks for Working Moms With Long Commutes

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by Annette Mazevski for Fairygodboss

We’ve all been there: You’ve just finished working for the day, and as you’re stepping out of your office, you’re wishing you were home already.

Most commute times are not terrible for most Americans, averaging about 25.4 minutes from home to office or vice versa. However, as rush-hour traffic increases and other pressing obligations interrupt your travels (e.g., pickups from child care, grocery runs and other necessary errands), the amount of time you have to prep in the morning or relax in the evening is dwindling.

Oh, did I mention that you’re also juggling not only your needs, but the needs of your child(ren) as well?

The majority of us cannot change our commute times unless we find work closer to our homes, have flexibility in our work schedule or own a jet pack (I wish). What we can do with our commute is optimize what is being done in those 25.4 minutes or however long your commute takes.

More: 5 Audiobooks That Will Make Your Commute Suck a Little Bit Less

As a mama who recently rejoined the workforce, there have been a number of ways I have optimized what I do during my commute to make myself more efficient and to give myself some extra time at the beginning or the end of the day. For the record, the majority of these suggestions are for those who are driving to work, but there are some suggestions here that would be beneficial to those who use mass transit to get from point A to point B.

Podcasts: Not only do they help pass the time, they can provide respite from the hectic work schedule you carry or keep you in-the-know without taking up too much time. For working moms, I recommend Working Motherhood and Working Mother Radio (on iTunes and Google Play) for more serious topics related to work-life balance and One Bad Mother that provides a lighter and funnier spin on, well, mom life.

Electronic assistants: Have any of you tried out "Hey, Siri" or "OK, Google"? These electronic assistants help out in a big way when your mind is spewing a thousand thoughts a minute but you can’t be writing them down during your drive. My favorite tasks include creating to-do lists and setting reminders for that day or simply calling up a friend without having to dial, which brings me to my next suggestion...

Catch up on phone calls to friends and family: Has it been months since you’ve spoken to your old college roommate? Been putting off plans for a playdate or weekend trip to visit family? Well, now’s the time! Give those in your life a ring — chances are they’re spending some time in their car trying to get home too.

Are you breastfeeding? Pump in the car! OK. This may not be relevant to everyone, but for those who are still breastfeeding and trying to keep up your milk supply while at work, the struggle is real. I’m thankful that I can block off time pretty consistently while I’m at work to pump, but a decent alternative is pumping in the car. Some moms can do it pretty well and others are terrified of someone looking over and seeing them being milked like a cow.

A potential workaround are the Freemie cups — they fit under your shirt and are compatible with most commercially available breast pumps. I can’t say how well they work since I haven’t personally tried them, but most reviews online for this product are positive.

Mindless reflection on your day: This is not the same as meditation (you’re driving, for crying out loud!), but can still provide some clarity at the start or end of the day. I find that I do some of my best thinking in the car when I let my mind wander after I start processing all the nuances of my day. This is also when my electronic assistant comes in handy — when I want to recall something I think of during my drive when I get home.

This clearly isn’t an exhaustive list, but I find that these suggestions take up the majority of my commute. I don’t have a 25.4-minute commute (it’s more like an hour and a half each way), but I hope you find some usefulness from the suggestions and recommendations above. With some planning ahead, your commute can be more productive, giving you a little extra breathing room when not at work.

Originally published on FairyGodBoss.


It Sounds Like Lunchtime at Kim K's House Is Weird, Weird, Weird

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Listen, a mama's gotta do what a mama's gotta do — and Kim Kardashian proves that no amount of fame or celebrity will curb a mother's ingenuity when it comes to her kids. In other words, things get weird in the Kardashian West household, too.

During an appearance Thursday on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, the 36-year-old Keeping Up with the Kardashians star spoke candidly about her adorable littles ones North, 3, and Saint, 1.

More: There Was Something Very Off About the Latest KUWTK Episode

"[Saint] is so sweet — he's such a good, good boy, such a good person," Kardashian West said, beaming. And as for North? Apparently the precocious girl goes to show that siblings often have polar opposite personalities.

In a refreshingly frank revelation, Kardashian West admitted, "North just beats him up all day long, and he doesn't cry... she's just awful. She's so jealous. I thought it was a phase, and it's not going away."

Curious about just how jealous North gets? Kardashian West shared an anecdote that made it abundantly clear she wasn't exaggerating, explaining she would have to put a milk box and straw up to her free breast while feeding Saint in order to appease her little diva.

"The things you do," she said, laughing.

Ain't it the truth! If that sounds especially strange to you, well, rest assured — it is. But it's also just another day in the life of being a parent. On a near-constant basis, you do about 100 things you never in a million years imagined you would do or say.

More: There's a Lot to Unpack in Kim Kardashian's Latest Tweets

Just yesterday, I had to tell my four year old to stop peeing on the dog. In the driveway. In our busy city neighborhood. Ah, good times.

The point is that parenting is the epitome of weird. Some days you feel like you're winning and other days you wish somebody would hand you a milk box and cuddle you for a little while.

Kudos to Kardashian West for not being afraid to share the less-than-picture-perfect parts of parenting that are often glossed over when you see celebrity families in magazines and on TV. In fact, the busy mom of two seems to be experiencing a true epiphany of perspective lately.

Speaking of her terrifying Paris robbery, Kardashian West said through tears, "I feel like that was so meant to happen to me. I'm such a different person... I really feel like things happen in your life to teach you things. I was definitely materialistic before and — not that there's anything bad with having things, but — I'm so happy that my kids get this me."

More: The Heartbreaking First-Hand Details of Kim Kardashian West's Robbery Are Out

Let's Talk About Sarah Surprising the Hell Out of Everyone on Survivor

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When the cast of Survivor: Game Changers was announced, fans immediately started complaining about certain members of the cast: that some of the chosen players weren't strong enough and hadn't even proven that they were "game changers." Sarah Lacina was definitely part of that conversation: she finished 11th on Season 28 and was only the first member of the jury and was seen as a bit of a pushover.

As this season has revved up, Sarah has been flying pretty low to the radar. She told CBS before the game started: "I’m more cut-throat now. I’m not out there to make friends and I’m willing to go against my word," but we didn't really see any of that happening for the first 26 days on the island.

But now. Watch out.

Last night's episode was called "A Line in the Concrete," but it should have been called "Sarah's Show." Not only did the small-town cop quietly organize a blindsiding of one of the most powerful people in the tribe, she also played the technical game well while also winning emotional/social points with key players. Here are her big three accomplishments from the night: 

sarah survivor tweet 1

sarah survivor tweet 1

She soared in likability

Sarah keeps her head down in camp, working hard and staying relatively quiet and drama free. Last night, though, when fellow team mate Cirie began to struggle with physical exhaustion during the rewards challenge, Sarah quickly and decisively jumped into the water to help. Even after the team lost the challenge, Sarah stayed to help Cirie finish. It might not seem like game play at first, but later, when Sarah and Cirie start to strategize, you know that there is a strong personal bond there.

On top of that Sarah looked good for her teammates. You can argue that likability doesn't matter a bit on Survivor, but it absolutely does. Michaela was almost voted out because of her personality, and no one argued that Debbie should be kept around for what she adds around the campfire. Being seen as a good, cooperative, helpful, and brave player helps, and Sarah made major points.

sarah survivor tweet 4

sarah survivor tweet 4

More: Two Players on Survivor: Game Changers Just Proved Everyone Wrong

She saw something no one else did

At the end of the rewards challenge, the winners jumped on a plane to a feast while the losers climbed into a boat to go back to shore. But as they were leaving, Sarah saw something on the bench beneath Michaela, the player who was sitting out the challenge. She jumped in the water, swam to it, and grabbed it: an advantage that gives her the ability to steal someone else's vote.

When asked about it by producers, Sarah explains that sharp observation a talent she has as a cop–she even notices when cars have expired inspection stickers on their cars.

It's a tiny detail, but it's also an advantage that could absolutely save her neck down the road even if she gets into pretty deep trouble.

sarah survivor tweet 3

sarah survivor tweet 3

More: Who Seems to Be Rebranding Their Image on Survivor: Game Changers?

She took down Debbie in style

Finally, in her crowning achievement, Sarah flipped from one alliance to the other, orchestrating a simple, beautiful power shift that ended with Debbie getting her torch extinguished at the end of the night, completely blindsided by what happened. At tribal council, Debbie said it took just ten minutes for her alliance of six to decide that Angela was going to be voted off, and then, when asked if she was sure about the outcome of the vote said, "Is perception reality?"

Not on Survivor, it's not, Debbie.

sarah survivor tweet 2

sarah survivor tweet 2

Now Brad, Sierra, Troyzan, and Tai are the only four remaining of the alliance of six, and one of them might be on the chopping block next week. Tai has two immunity idols to protect him, but the other three may have to play mightily hard to win the immunity challenge.

Even viewers who aren't huge fans of Sarah could get behind waving goodbye to Debbie: 

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debbie tweet 1

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debbie tweet 2

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debbie tweet 3

More: An Analysis of Jeff Probst's Style on Survivor, Told Through His Cargo Shirts

Are you on Team Sarah after last night's episode?

The Internet's Losing Its Shit Over Donald Trump's Birthday Tweet to Melania

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You never know what the week holds in the world of Donald Trump's Twitter account, but Wednesday brought about a seemingly (and uncharacteristically) innocuous tweet from "45" — a birthday message to his wife, Melania.

More: Not Fake News — Trumps Oval Office Has a Button for Soda Delivery

Of course, it simply wouldn't be the Donald if he didn't stir up a little controversy, and his birthday wishes to the new First Lady prove to be no exception. So, what's the problem, right? (Yes, I'm aware of how much there is to unpack in that question.) 

Donald Trump 5

Donald Trump 5

Leave it to the good people of the interwebz to bring to light the almost farcical nature of Donald's tweet.

For starters, Mashable's MJ Franklin quickly pointed out that the American flag depicted in the Donald's graphic message to Melania only has 39 stars. So either someone in the graphics department was playing as fast and loose with design as 45 does with facts, or the prez has some secret state-trimming agenda we're not privy to.

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Donald Trump 1

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Donald Trump 2

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Donald Trump 3

Naturally, that wasn't the only commentary making the rounds, though. Countless people weighed in with their opinions about Donald's generic message to Melania. Some used subtle sarcasm to get their point across.

More: OMG, Donald Trump Is Just a Real Housewife in Disguise

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Donald Trump 4

Others were outright unimpressed by Donald's egocentric shout-out.

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Donald Trump 6

Of course, many people simply lamented the tweet on Melania's behalf — present party included. I mean, is it too much to ask for a birthday message from your husband that doesn't read like a discount card from a picked-over drug store aisle?

Perhaps 45 could have thrown in "my beloved wife" or "I love you" in there somewhere amid the handwriting font and HAPPY BIRTHDAY caps. While it would be easy to pass this off as the work of an intern, it's ironic that Donald's typical tweet-storms are so personal and passionate in nature and, yet, his wife gets this lukewarm ode on her special day.

More: Anderson Cooper Reacting to Trump's North Korea Comments Is All of Us

Admittedly, though, maybe I'm still just salty over the departure of lovebirds Barack and Michelle, who never shied away from showing their true feelings for each other. Exhibit A? The tweet Barack sent his bride for her birthday this January.

Donald Trump 7

Donald Trump 7

Now that, my friends, is a birthday tweet. For future reference, Trump, this is the kind of birthday message your lovely wife deserves.

In any case, here's wishing our FLOTUS, Melania, a very happy 47th birthday!

Debbie and Brad's Beef on Survivor Was All an Act

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She never saw it coming. Despite confidence in her seemingly sold six-way alliance, Debbie Wanner became the latest castaway to have her torch snuffed in a Survivor: Game Changers blindside. In our one-on-one interview with Debbie, she discussed her close relationship with Brad and revealed the real reason she verbally snapped at him earlier this season. She also explained why she had doubts about returning to play Survivor for a second time and offered to hate from viewers who are angry she voted out Ozzy.

SK: You were genuinely surprised to be voted out, so what did you think was actually going to happen?

DW: I thought Andrea was going to go home. It was simple. We were going to vote out Andrea. She was a physical beast. I don't remember who had originally wanted her gone, but for whatever reason it was Andrea.

Debbie Wanner voted off Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

K: Before getting eliminated, you were very confident in your six-way alliance. That group included Brad Culpepper, who is somebody you clashed with early on in the season. What evolved in your relationship with Brad that made you two such tight allies?

DW: Nothing really evolved. Our alliance was from the get-go. That was because I have a tremendous amount of respect for Monica Culpepper [his wife and previous Survivor contestant.] I could relate to her because she was the old woman, thin and people called her a goat. When she made it to the final three of her season, the jury grilled her. They were horrible to her. I really felt for Monica, and could identify with her. I thought she did a fabulous job. I actually called Brad "Mr. Monica Culpepper." When Brad played back on Season 27, I could never quite understand why he was so despised. I thought I was missing something. I know it's heavily edited, but I liked this guy. He's smart and a hard worker. I wanted to align with him because I just felt like there was something not right about him being edited as this nefarious bad, guy.

Debbie Wanner wears blue Nuku tribe buff on Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: But what about the moments we saw you angrily yelling at him on the beach?

DW: Even in spite of all that inflated drama, I believe in his heart Brad knew I was acting. I always told him, "I don't ever want to come across like you and I are as closely aligned as we are." I needed people to continue to tell me when they wanted Brad out. That is exactly why Ozzy left, because he wanted Brad out. Ozzy and I had a long conversation, and when I asked him who he wanted gone the first person he said was Brad Culpepper. Of course I immediately went back and told Brad. Even though it appeared to the general public that Brad and I had this on-the-outs relationship, I was never throwing Brad under the bus. It was largely inflated and blown out of proportion on my part. Somebody should've given me a Snickers bar because apparently I desperately needed one from PMS or something. My actions were partially because I needed people to feel comfortable to tell me when Brad was the target. To do that, they had to believe that I was ready to throw him under the bus.

Debbie Wanner at Nuku camp on Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: So your angry outburst was an act?

DW: Well, it was an inflated act. Was there part of me that was pissed at him? Yeah, but not to that degree. It's a tough game with pressure at so many different levels that people forget to take into account. The 24/7 provocation, deprivation and starvation made me a little cranky. But it didn't mean I was gonna throw him under the bus, because I wasn't.

Debbie Wanner enjoys Exile Island twist on Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: When Ozzy was eliminated, you posted on Facebook asking viewers to lighten up and realize it's just a game. I'm assuming you were getting backlash for voting him out. What were fans saying to you?

DW: I don't spend a lot of time reading it, but the few that I did were like, "We love Ozzy. Ozzy is a legend. Ozzy was ripped off again and deserved to win." Well, you know what? Everybody who plays Survivor deserves a million dollars. It's that tough, grueling and difficult. It's a game. The game is to eliminate your opponent. Just like I've been taken out, Ozzy was taken out. That's the game. That's the way it goes. I understand Ozzy has a huge, probably largely female, fan base with great hair. I like Ozzy, too, I really do. Just like I have no hard feelings about being taken out of the game, people should recognize it for what it is: A game with the objective to be the last man or woman standing.

More: Survivor's Ozzy Lusth Answers Critics Who Say He's not a Strategic Player

Debbie Wanner on challenge beach during Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: Is there anybody still in the competition who you don't believe deserves to win?

DW: I can't say that because it is so tough mentally and physically playing Survivor, that in my opinion, everybody deserves at least six figures — if not seven — for just going through the highs, lows and lows. I think everybody deserves a million dollars, quite frankly. All of us.

Debbie Wanner talks with Sarah Lacina on Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: Going into this season, what was your strategy on day one?

DW: It was to try to find one or two people I felt like I could put some faith in. Preferably, a strong guy that I could use as a shield and work to protect. To some degree, I did that.

Debbie Wanner works at Nuku camp on Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: When you found out the theme of this season was Game Changers, was there any added pressure for you to live up to that status?

DW: Yes. Yes. Yes. Everything is in a name. If your name were Winston Churchill, wouldn't you feel like you had big boots to fill? What if your name were Elton John and you can't play piano for crap? Yeah, everybody wants to make big moves. Plus, you're playing with such good, experienced players. If we were on a poker circuit, these are the professional poker players. These are the people winning the jackpot, and there's 20 of them. Yes, extra pressure.

More: Survivor: Game Changers Includes Questionable Cast Choices

John Cochran visits Debbie Wanner on Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: What was your reaction when CBS asked you to play again?

DW: My contact there called me and asked me to go out to LA. I was like, "Oh my God." That heat stroke episode from Cambodia was bad. That was really bad. It was like, "Can't I do the Amazing Race" instead? I threw some names out there for the Amazing Race that I think got some consideration. But in the end, if you can play a game for a one in 20 chance at a million dollars, would you play the game? For me, it's still a life-changing amount of money. I guess that's what it ultimately came down to. I'm not a lottery ticket buyer, but these are really good odds.

More: Survivor Castaway Evacuated in Medical Scare

Debbie Wanner lays in hammock on Exile Island during Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

SK: Would you play again?

DW: Maybe if I could bring some love along. The hardest part is not getting the love and just knowing you can never truly trust anybody. I would like to do Blood Vs. Water 3.

Debbie Wanner cast photo for Survivor: Game Changers
Image: CBS

Do you agree with Debbie that everybody who competes on Survivor is worthy of the $1 million? Join the conversation by leaving a comment in the section below!

Emma Watson's Suggestion for a Beauty and the Beast Sequel is Brilliant

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In case you were sitting around wondering if Emma Watson could get any more awesome (hey, right there with ya), the answer is yes. Of course she can — she's Emma Watson. And if you need solid proof, simply take note of the Beauty and the Beast sequel idea Watson has been brewing in her fantastic brain.

During an interview with Access Hollywood's Scott Evans at The Circle's Tribeca Film Festival premiere, Watson confessed she hadn't realized there was so much fan fervor over the possibility of a sequel. Because, well, she's genuinely that humble.

More: Emma Watson Thinks It's Weird You're Sharing Everything on Social Media

However, just because she didn't realize fans wanted a sequel doesn't mean she hasn't been thinking about one herself. When asked outright if she'd be down to step into Belle's shoes again, Watson answered rather emphatically, "Yes, I would LOVE to do a sequel... yes!"

And here's the kicker: she already has a killer thematic suggestion for the sequel.

"I always thought Belle would become a teacher, and she would run the library in the castle and open it up to the village," Watson told Evans. "This is where I was going!"

More: Emma Watson Continues Her Crusade for Girl Power

Oh, we're there, Watson — if that's the direction this sequel is headed, sign us up. While we're at it, for that matter, can we go ahead and put in a formal request for Watson to join the ranks of Hollywood's female directors?

Women make up only five percent (yes, you read that right) of the directors in Hollywood, so there is clearly a need for smart, empowering voices like Watson's to take up residence alongside the Ava DuVernays and Kathryn Bigelows of the world.

It seems to us like Watson has the sequel to Beauty and the Beast teed up beautifully for someone, and it sure is nice to imagine that someone being her. For now, though, we'd settle for seeing her version of Belle's future become a reality.

More: Emma Watson Draws Strength from Fellow Activists

Once her beloved character takes down the patriarchy by educating and uplifting all of the women around her, we'll eagerly await the day when Watson helps smash barriers in the boys club that is Hollywood's creative executives.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Belle Has Always Been a 'Nasty Woman' in These 14 Ways
Image: Disney

Supernatural’s Castiel Under Baby Lucifer’s Spell Marks a Dark Future

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Sam and Dean's list of problems just keep growing on Supernatural. Basically, they really can't catch a break this season. Guess what? Castiel is one of those reasons. Yeah, their good buddy Cas is just making all of the wrong decisions right now.

In Thursday's episode, Castiel finally returned from Heaven. As you can imagine, Dean was not thrilled to see him, especially since Cas disappeared without any word and didn't even return Dean's calls. Upon his homecoming, Castiel managed to make things even worse by disappearing AGAIN and stealing the Colt in the process.

More: New Supernatural Photos Hint Castiel's Life Is in Danger

Castiel, you don't just leave without saying goodbye to Sam and Dean. Plus, to steal the Colt? No, that belongs to the Winchesters. We're sure if he would've just asked nicely, they may have handed it over.

The purpose behind Cas taking the Colt was to bring it to his team of angels in order to kill Dagon, Kelly and Lucifer's baby. To make a long story short, it did not work and Castiel couldn't pull the trigger. He ended up saving Kelly and Baby Lucifer from Dagon.

Despite Castiel's firm belief that both Kelly and her baby need to die or the world will essentially implode, Kelly tried to convince him otherwise. After trying to kill herself (she didn't die, because Lucifer Jr. wouldn't allow it), Kelly discovered this newfound faith in her child. She wholeheartedly believes he needs to be born with his powers (not have his grace extracted, which might keep both Kelly and Baby Lucifer alive as humans, like Sam suggested) and that he will do good in the world.

Her faith was reaffirmed further when she had Castiel feel Baby Lucifer kicking. When Cas touched her baby bump, Kelly touched his arm and her child showed her a vision of the future. It depicted Castiel protecting both Kelly and her child. All of this led Kelly to believe that, yes, it's OK if she dies, but her child must live and be protected by none other than Castiel. He will be the one to guide her son to a righteous path.

During Kelly's revelation, Sam and Dean managed to catch up with her and Castiel at a hotel. Dean got the Colt back, but then another extremely precious item of his was taken. With Castiel inside it, Kelly drove off in Baby. Dean was not happy — duh.

Dean Winchester
Image: Giphy

Kelly drove herself and Castiel to "the sandbox," aka the gates of Heaven. She was ready to ascend with Castiel and Joshua, who finally appeared, but that plan went awry when Dagon showed up, killed Joshua and beat the crap out of Castiel. Thankfully, Sam and Dean arrived in Cas' truck, but things went further south. In what was a devastating moment, Dagon destroyed the Colt. We never thought we'd be so upset over the loss of a weapon.

More: Supernatural Kills [SPOILER] & the Timing Couldn't Be Worse

Eventually, Dagon's fight came to an end when Kelly rested her hand on Castiel's arm and Baby Lucifer channeled his powers into Castiel. This allowed Cas to kill and defeat Dagon once and for all. It's definitely not what we expected to happen. And thanks to this magic trick, Cas is apparently now a believer in Baby Lucifer.

Yeah, he thinks Lucifer's child must keep his powers, because he once again has faith that everything will work out for the best. As he told Sam and Dean, "You just have to trust me." This was before Castiel knocked Sam and Dean out with his angel magic and disappeared FOR THE THIRD TIME with Kelly by his side. What makes the situation even more scary is when Cas said the following (and with a smile) about what Baby Lucifer, "He didn't tell me, he showed me... the future."

Well, it might be easy to trust you Castiel if we could tell if you actually believe the words coming out of your mouth or if you're under some kind of spell. He doesn't seem to be acting like himself, but instead as if he's almost brainwashed by Baby Lucifer. If that's the case, then that just goes to show how powerful Lucifer's son is and what he's willing to do get his way.

There is of course a chance that Lucifer's child could end up being good and thanks to Castiel's guidance. Though, that sounds too good to be true.

It kind of seems like Castiel is under Baby Lucifer's spell rather than just having his faith restored after coming in contact with the child's powers. It's hard to say for certain what exactly is going on with Castiel, but, either way, him going rogue without Sam and Dean sounds like a dark future is ahead.

Also, what if Baby Lucifer is actually aligning himself with Castiel, trusts him and wants him to guide him? If so, can you imagine how pissed Lucifer is going to be? He won't stand for it and will bring even more evil to the world — and probably kill Cas in the process.

Supernatural, Lucifer
Image: Giphy

Hey, Sam and Dean, you can wake up from your angel nap now, get back to saving the world and ensure Castiel doesn't make any further questionable decisions.

More: Supernatural's Dean Just Reacted to Sam's Big Secret in an Unexpected Way

Supernatural airs Thursdays at 8/7c on The CW.

Grow Up, Maggie! Grey's Anatomy Is Making a Mess of Meredith's Sister

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If you haven't watched this week's episode of Grey's Anatomy yet, be forewarned: No. 1, we're about to dive head-first into some spoilers, and No. 2, it will break your gosh damn heart. Not that the second assertion will come as a surprise to anyone.

More: Meredith Just Made a Huge, Heartrending Decision on Grey's Anatomy

But aside from the heart-tugging moments (and there were many), this week's episode of Grey's was guilty of one major misstep: making Maggie selfish AF.

Is this opinion going to be super popular? Meh, who knows? Still, if it's irksome enough to distract from the many poignant moments in the episode, it merits mentioning. After all, it took fans a while to warm up to Maggie to start with — and her recent behavior runs the risk of alienating fans' fickle affections once more.

So, let's unpack Maggie's problematic behavior, shall we?

We've all been watching with bated breath as the saga of Meredith and Nathan starts to unfold. At first, we were resistant. I think it's safe to say there simply isn't enough time in the world to properly mourn the loss of McDreamy.

However, Nathan has proven himself to be a stand-up guy and, thus, has steadily grown on us. Besides, Meredith deserves to love again.

For a woman who has been through so much intense pain and tragedy to open up to love again, it's a big deal! A true testament to the resilience of the human spirit, if you will, and it's unfortunate that someone who is supposed to love Meredith so much wouldn't see that and be happy for her.

More: McDreamy Just Made His Way Back to Grey's Anatomy, and It Was Awful

Here's the truth: Maggie is acting like they are still in high school. She never even dated Nathan, so it's silly for her to lay claim to him to such a degree that she invokes some arbitrary "girl code."

Granted, she has a point in the fact that Meredith should have told her the truth sooner. But Mer was truthful in her explanation to Maggie — she didn't want to hurt her, she did keep Nathan at bay because of Maggie and there's no good time to drop potentially painful news to someone who just lost their mother.

Lastly, can we just talk about how this is a total disservice to Kelly McCreary, who is a phenomenal actress? She deserves more than the role of the petulant brat whining over a guy. Point blank. If the show continues in this direction, it diminishes the impact and growth she created for her character during the haunting episode when her mother succumbed to breast cancer.

Maggie is an extremely smart person who just lost the one person she could always count on. Don't you think she would find something as trivial as fighting over a guy to be kind of senseless in light of everything else?

More: Grey's Said Good-bye to [SPOILER] This Week, and We're Not OK

This week's episode had some truly affecting moments, like when Amelia held Veronica (played beautifully by guest star Brigid Brannagh) as she took her last breath... mere moments after welcoming a son into the world.

Or when Owen intercepted Amelia in the elevator, and simply held space for her to feel what she was feeling.

But the drama between Meredith and Maggie dominated the episode, and it was an unnecessary distraction. Mer's letter to Maggie at the close helped repair some of the damage, but a show as empowering as Grey's typically is should move past the tired trope of two women fighting over a guy. And fast.


Lunapads Is the OG Alternative Menstrual Company

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Co-founders Suzanne Siemens and Madeleine Shaw aren’t trying to start something –– but upon listening to them tell the story of their company, Lunapads, for just a few minutes, the parallels between their company and millennial favorite, Thinx, are numerous. While Thinx was plastering subways in millennial pink ads with suggestive grapefruits, Lunapads was quietly continuing to roll out panty liners, pads and menstrual health kits that empower women to take control of their periods. So quietly, in fact, that Lunapads surprisingly predates Thinx by roughly 10 years.

“I’m a feminist from way back, so it’s interesting to me to watch this notion of feminism evolve in a commercial way,” Shaw tells SheKnows.

As an aspiring fashion designer who had been experiencing allergic reactions to tampons, she began experimenting in the early '90s with the idea of cloth pads and sewing pads into underwear as a sustainable (after all, disposable menstrual products just felt so wasteful), marketable alternative. In 2000, Shaw teamed up with Suzanne Siemens, who is now the CEO of the brand, and the two now lead a tiny team of nearly 10 out of their Vancouver headquarters.

More: The Bogus Reason These Thinx Ads Were Banned in NYC

So how has Lunapads flown relatively under the radar, despite a reach of 40 countries and a product arsenal that includes various pads, panty liners, diva cups and more?

“Thinx’s marketing and PR efforts have just been really superb and have kind of blown us out of the water, in a way,” says Shaw.

But as innovation in the feminine hygiene market become increasingly mainstream, the co-founders can’t help but feel indignation about the widely overlooked foundations their brand has been laying in this field for years.

In a sense, Thinx’s immense success in marketing these alternatives as groundbreaking products for women has helped bring attention to Lunapads’ cause, and the recent scandal involving “She-E-O’ Miki Agrawal has left many women in search of a new brand that actually practices values of inclusivity and feminine empowerment, and that is where Lunapads hopes to come in as the trusted brand that has been here all along.

It’s a tough sell: swapping the convenience of disposable pads and tampons for cloth products that need to be washed and cared for? But the brand has risen to the challenge, and similarly, one of the most unique things Lunapads does well is that it isn’t afraid to tackle the niches of their market that are often ignored or simply overlooked.

Sure, many women get periods, but what about women who use menstrual products for other purposes? Lunapads products are openly marketed toward those experiencing incontinence, women who are postpartum or folks who are post-operation, not just women who are menstruating.

On their blog, the same inclusive culture is reinforced by featuring writers who talk about body positivity, endometriosis and bladder leakage. The co-founders say the rise of modern feminist icons like Rupi Kaur and Heather White have helped to elevate and broaden the conversation about women’s reproductive health, but oftentimes, these are conversations (Shaw cites trans inclusiveness as a key topic) the team at Lunapads has been having for many years before they reached mainstream consciousness.

More: The FDA Has a Bone to Pick With Reusable Menstrual Products

Looking forward, with their demonstrated power to quietly trend-set in the field of women’s health, Shaw and Siemens have directed some of their attention to a charitable partnership with AFRIpads.

If the name sounds familiar, it’s because this is the same charity that Thinx partnered up with to bring much-needed menstrual products to schoolgirls in Uganda. The founders of AFRIpads came to Lunapads in 2008, realizing that sustainable pads and tampons would be a game-changer for their cause, and in 2012, Lunapads launched a one-for-one model, a favorite of brands like Toms, donating one product for every product sold.

Siemens also shares the little-known fact that Lunapads is actually a shareholder in AFRIpads, saying, “that was another really important step that for us, really went beyond. There are a lot of one-for-one programs out there, and what we were interested in was taking it another step further and seeing how we could really support their business from the inside out.”

The co-founders say they had no problem with Thinx discovering the nonprofit and piggybacking with their own program, but that this was a relationship that, once again, Lunapads had been working on for years before Thinx was even a brand.

Lunapads’ partnership with AFRIpads and its collaboration with Transformation Textiles, which turns waste from textile production from factories like Nike and Walmart into pads and underwear, can make it challenging to place the brand into a neat mission category: menstrual health? Trans inclusion? Sustainability?

The answer, in fact, is all of those things, and that’s what makes the brand so successful.

More: Reusable Sanitary Pads Are Becoming a Thing

“We’re all about relationships, and we really like meeting people and looking at some more interesting social partnerships in the future”, said Siemens when asked about what might be down the road (getting an opportunity to work with organizations like Planned Parenthood is something both co-founders express great excitement about).

Keep an eye on Lunapads. They’ve been in the women’s health and wellness space for a while, and they’re certainly not going anywhere.

A Very Personal, Deeply Suggestive List of What 13 Reasons Why Season 2 Needs

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Since watching 13 Reasons Why, I haven't been able to get it out of my head. I was very critical of the series, but that doesn't mean it wasn't haunting and poignant in some very big ways amidst the controversy. Whether you appreciated Season 1 or not, there is no denying that it has spurred some big conversations about teenage suicide, high school bullying and rape culture in our country. For that, the show absolutely needs to be applauded, because these are big conversations we should be having — especially when you consider that suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals ages 10-24.

More: Why I Have Big Problems With 13 Reasons Why

While I do think these are important topics to discuss, I don't think they are topics kids should be tackling by themselves while watching a television show. But they are. CNN reports that the show has mental health experts concerned about impressionable teens watching the series and, for that reason above all else, I hope 13 Reasons Why takes some big steps in Season 2 to have a broader and healthier discussion about these heavy issues.

1. Some healing

The biggest thing I want to see in Season 2 is some hope for these kids moving forward. Season 1 ended on such a bleak note. Besides the graphic scene of Hannah's suicide, we saw Alex also try to kill himself and Clay get beaten to a pulp while Bryce that revealed he did, in fact, rape girls and Tyler plotted a school shooting. It's not exactly a "Yay, life!" message.

2. A little happiness

Going right along with my first point, let's get these kids connecting and regrouping as young adults in a positive way. Let's add in a little comedic relief here and there instead of the constant doom and gloom. Everyone in this show just seems so terribly sad all the time. I know the town was grieving, but maybe in Season 2, it's time to let some of that go.

More: My Teen Son Said He Wanted to End His Own Life

3. Help

These kids need some serious help, and I'm not just talking about Jessica, who is dealing with the aftermath of her rape, or Alex, who is in critical condition in the hospital after shooting himself. I'm talking about all of these kids. And the adults, too, for that matter. The culture at this school is so unhealthy that it's almost like they need someone from the outside to come in and help straighten everything out. Maybe we'll see police involvement in Season 2? Perhaps a strong, independent detective who could actually be an encouraging force for everyone?

4. The end of Bryce

Bryce is really the only one on the show who, to me, just seems completely irredeemable. Lock that guy up and throw away the key. He has got to go. And while the system is checking his god complex in a big way, let's educate these kids about rape and sex — the definition of consent and what it looks like, the significance of sex and how to say no, the importance of protecting yourself and your partner.

5. Adult intervention

After the adults get an intervention, they need to intervene with their kids. The only set of decent parents in this show seem to be Clay's, and even they are making their fair share of mistakes. Discussions about suicide shouldn't be happening outside a police station or in an interview room. Sit these kids down, get multiple counselors involved and have a long-term series of meaningful conversations.

More: Suicide Prevention Apps Everyone Should Know About

6. That whole school shooting setup...

This series is already tackling so many emotionally heavy topics, the fact that they threw in that little hint of a school shooting in Season 2 with Tyler kinda makes me feel sick. The show just needs to ax this idea. They're already struggling with the controversy surrounding their message on bullying and suicide. Adding in a school shooting is just going to lead to too many terrible things and not enough show to explain them in a way that will do these topics justice.

The biggest complaint from Season 1 is that the storyline romanticized suicide. And I agree. Hopefully in Season 2, 13 Reasons Why can better explain the message and share the hope in life rather than the revenge in suicide.

Will you watch 13 Reasons Why Season 2?

United Tries to Buy Back Customers With Cheap Flights to Europe

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United Airlines could teach a master course in PR failures. Over the last few months, the company has managed to destroy its reputation through all manner of customer service scandals (a recap on those below). But the airline is hoping that money talks and just significantly lowered its prices in hopes of bringing customers back. They're currently offering tickets from Boston to Sweden for just $364 and flights from Boston to Paris for $433. I know what you're thinking: cha-ching.

Hey, it's tempting. But then I remember that United was caught on camera having security guards drag a customer off a plane after overbooking a flight. The passenger was bloodied up and injured in the process, sustaining a concussion, a broken nose and two lost teeth. Sorry, but you can't put a price on an intact skull, face and smile!

Then, a giant bunny named Simon mysteriously died on a flight just hours after getting a clean bill of health from the vet. Not to mention last month, when United agents wouldn't allow three teen girls on a plane because they were wearing leggings. #EyeRoll, amirite?

More: United Airlines strands passengers at army barracks for more than 20 hours

So will I personally be taking United up on their offer of cheap trans-Atlantic travel? Probably not. First off, I don't want to have to reckon with the ghost of a giant bunny. And secondly, I'm still not OK with how the company tried to justify the overbooking incident that ended with an innocent civilian getting banged up by law enforcement.

But if you're still intrigued by the promise of cheap travel, book quickly — as more customers make their way back to the airline, prices are sure to rise again.

More: United apologizes for humiliating family with special needs child

Scarlett Johansson Wants to Get a Guy's Grandma Drunk Just for the LOLs

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So Scarlett Johansson has a doppelgänger, and the two of them really do look scarily alike. The only issue? Said doppelgänger is 72 years old, and she looked just like Johansson when she was 22, so the resemblance may not be quite as striking as it once was.

More: Scarlett Johansson Just Wants Ivanka Trump to Give a Damn About the American People

Still, check out the photo that a Reddit user posted of his then-22-year-old grandma, Geraldine.

Scarlett Johansson wants to get drunk with her twin 1

Scarlett Johansson wants to get drunk with her twin 1

Uncanny, right? Even Johansson thought so, and now she wants to get her grandma twin drunk. You know, like you do.

"This video is for Grandma Geraldine," she said in a message posted to YouTube for her doppelgänger. "Geraldine, I cannot tell you, I have been absolutely inundated with emails and messages about how much we look alike. And I had to look at the photo myself. Holy crap! I want to meet you in person!"

Scarlett Johansson wants to get drunk with her twin 2

Scarlett Johansson wants to get drunk with her twin 2

More: Scarlett Johansson’s Next Real-Life Role Could Be in the White House

And, naturally, Johansson wants to take the septuagenarian partying, because what else would you do in this kind of a situation?

"I saw that you were, quote, 'drunk as a skunk' when taking that photo, and I would like to see your drunk face," Johansson said. "I want to share a drunk face with you. Let’s have a drink, Geraldine. I would like to invite you to — do you want to come see Rough Night with me, be my guest? We're a bunch of partying girls, so it's a good running theme. I'll cover all your hidden costs."

She ended the video, "I'll see you at the bar. Be there or be square."

More: 32 Celebs Who Are Left-Handed Because Apparently People Really Want to Know

You heard her, Geraldine. Time to turn up.

5 Reasons Women Avoid Birth Control (and What You Need to Know About Them)

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I still remember watching an episode of 16 & Pregnant where the tiny blond chick with a promising future in gymnastics gets pregnant and decides to keep the baby. She couldn’t have been more than 5 feet tall, 100 pounds on a day full of nothing but ingesting fatty carbs, and when her mom asks her why she didn’t want to go on the pill, she blames the prospect of weight gain.

“I didn’t want to get fat,” she says shyly. Then together, mother and daughter look in the full-length mirror at her 8-month-along pregnant belly and laugh uncontrollably.

More: We’re one step closer to getting birth control pills without a prescription

But the tiny blond chick isn’t alone. In fact, she is representative of the vast majority of sexually active women. One of the most common reasons women don’t go on birth control pills is that, like her, they “don’t want to get fat.” This widespread and intense fear of putting on a few pounds can actually dictate women’s choices about their reproductive health.

In the event that a young woman decides she doesn’t want to take birth control pills and subsequently avoids all other protection — whether voluntarily or by accident — this decision could very possibly result in an unintended pregnancy. In that case, her initial aversion to contraceptives as a control choice is rendered invalid; in short, she’s going to gain weight anyway: She’s pregnant.

Putting on a bit of weight is hardly the sole reason some women opt not to take birth control. Women cite many different reasons for avoiding contraceptives. Below, HelloFlo debunks common reasons why some women choose to avoid birth control pills.

Reason No. 1: “I don’t want to get fat”

Weight gain was, once upon a time, a genuine concern for women on the pill. But this specific side effect is characteristic of earlier versions of oral contraceptives. Nowadays, weight gain is no longer a legitimate side effect for pills that contain progesterone and estrogen, though rumor still seems to perpetuate this idea.

More: All your birth control options explained in 1 handy chart

Reason No. 2: “It might make me depressed”

Birth control screws with your hormones — that’s what it’s meant to do, as it uses estrogen and progesterone (or a combination of the two) to suppress ovulation. They thicken the cervical mucus, which makes it nearly impossible for sperm to pass into the cervix, therefore blocking pregnancy. But a potential repercussion of voluntarily altering your hormone levels is a fluctuation in your natural hormonal balance, which could result in depression. For women taking birth control, the risk of developing depression increases by 10 percent.

Reason No. 3: “Birth control causes cancer”

It’s true taking oral contraceptive pills raises a person’s risk for developing certain kinds of cancer, like breast cancer. By the same token, it’s also true that taking oral contraceptive pills lowers a person’s risk for developing other kinds of cancer, like ovarian and uterine.

Reason No. 4: “I don’t want to put chemicals in my body”

We’ve all heard at least one female friend say it: “My body needs a break.” Being exposed to any sort of chemicals or hormones runs its risk, but the validity of “giving your body a break” is often disputed by specialists. Birth control works on the daily; it doesn’t build up in your body over time. As soon as a person ceases taking birth control, hormones leave the system and a person is susceptible to pregnancy.

More: How birth control may be affecting your sleep

Reason No. 5: “I’m not at risk for getting pregnant”

Two of the top three reasons women don’t use contraceptives include “a misjudged risk for pregnancy” and “infrequent intercourse.” In fact, 36 percent of women who experience unplanned pregnancies cite their reason for not using birth control as “thinking they couldn’t get pregnant,” an excuse that proper, informative sex education could clear up. As far as “infrequent intercourse” as a justification, sometimes it’s better to be safe than sorry.

By Stephanie Osmanski

Originally published on HelloFlo.

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