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Where to Take Kids on Vacation — & on a Budget

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Before you had kiddos, you might have gallivanted across the globe, hopping country to country with just a backpack and blind ambition. But now that traveling means packing strollers, coloring books and at least three changes of clothes, closing your eyes and pointing at a map is out of the question. And when you consider you’re now shelling out for several plane tickets, your budget can go from $1 meals on a beach in Thailand to $30 for meals for three fast. But that doesn't mean you can't share your passion for travel with your children — just that figuring out how to do it on a budget is key. Luckily for you, travel agents and experts know how to find the best deals while still making lifelong memories with your mini passport-holders.

More: 10 tips for traveling with Baby from moms who've been there

Here, they spill the secrets on the most cost-effective destinations to take your kids on vacation this summer.

National parks

Have visions of a National Lampoon’s cult classic in your mind when you think about road-tripping with children? While we’re sure your trip will be just as entertaining, it won’t have as many kinks as the film, and it’ll give your kids a glimpse into the great west. As Lissa Poirot, editor-in-chief of Family Vacation Critic, says, national parks offer plenty of nature and adventure, but won’t require you dip into your savings for your carload. She explains that an annual pass of $80 will include everyone who can fit into your car (or SUV or van or truck) and allows you access to Arches, Canyonlands, the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park and more. "Not only can you hike, bike, swim and explore our national landscape, the parks offer free programing and a junior rangers program with activities specially designed for various ages and activity levels," she notes.

And you can stay on the land itself, just make sure to pack some gear to get you by. “Camping is often an option inside and just outside the parks to help save even more on accommodations," says Poirot. "KOA campgrounds even offers cabins with kitchens and beds, along with swimming pools for those who don’t want to rough it.”

Myrtle Beach or Virginia Beach

If you’re an East Coast family who wants to get away without going too far away from home base, Poirot says a getaway to a Southern surf-and-sea town might be your best bet. Not only can you book a home that’s a hop and a skip away from the beach, but with the added kitchen in most rentals, you can save money on dining out. Another perk? If you have enough to plan in your everyday life and you want a break from scheduling and booking activities, a beach will engage your kids without much effort on your part.

"Beach vacations are generally pretty low-key in that there’s not a ton you have to plan for — no airfare or expensive park admission and not a completely filled itinerary of must-see attractions," says Poirot. "Kids are thrilled to play on the beach or in the hotel pool, and if your beach has a boardwalk, you have plenty of low-cost entertainment to enjoy in the evenings."

More: 11 awesome summer reads for tweens and teens

Walt Disney World

OK, bear with us here. When you start thinking about making your kids’ dreams come true with a trip to Disney World, you probably start seeing dollar signs. But according to Disney travel expert Greg Antonelle, a vacation to the most beloved theme park of all can be as expensive or cheap as you make it. The trick is to pick and choose your adventures and to look out for special deals or work with a professional.

"If you go during value season when it is less crowded and stay at a value resort, you can save a lot of money," says Antonelle. "Additionally, if you are lucky enough to get free dining or another promotion, you can save even more money. Incredibly, it is possible to go to Walt Disney World with your family and not break the bank. Utilizing a travel agent that specializes in Disney destinations can assist you with getting the lowest possible price for your vacation."

Next up: More budget vacation tips for you and your kids

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Washington, D.C.

During the summer months, your kids probably aren’t actively engaged in learning. While their teachers will encourage summer reading, another way to make sure they’re growing their impressionable minds is to take them on an education-focused getaway. Though they will look at it for the fun adventure, you’ll feel good knowing you did more than hand over quarters for the ride and a dollar for an ice cream cone. Both Antonelle and Poirot suggest our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., as a go-to destination for the summer with kids.

"Washington, D.C., is a great destination for families that won't crush your bank account," says Antonelle. "If you get a hotel near the National Mall, you can walk to so many different destinations. Also, many of the museums and landmarks in D.C. are free, so you won't have to pay to see these great sites. The same with the monuments, zoo and memorials. The key is to do a little more legwork before you pack up the car or your carry-on and look ahead for museum closings or peak travel times when you might have to battle other families for lawn space.

Chicago

Want to skip D.C. but into the idea of a city vacation with your children? Poirot says that cities are often overlooked as destinations for families because it might seem overwhelming to take children on public transportation or figure out how to navigate while answering your kid’s 10th ‘why?’ question of the day. But if you’re looking to save money, cities are a smart option because of their central location. "With so many attractions in close proximity, visitors have access to inexpensive public transportation and a wide range of attractions to visit at once — museums, great restaurants, parks and more," says Poirot. Many destinations will even offer free rides for kids on the train and will have plenty of kid-friendly sites to check off your itinerary. "Chicago offer CityPass discounts; you can skip the lines and save more than half of admission to the biggest attractions like the Field Museum and the Shedd Aquarium by purchasing a pass," she adds.

More: The best summer camps in the U.S. for kids with unique interests

Lake towns

Maybe your babe is a little too young for the beach or your partner has a deep aversion to sand, but you all still want some water and relaxation. Antonelle suggests looking for a nearby lake that offers cabin rentals where you can set up camp for the week. You might even consider nearby hiking trails, where you can pack the baby in a carrier and give your older kids the freedom to explore the great outdoors. Just like renting a beach house, a lake house lets you cook your meals and maybe even drink a glass (or three) of wine since you don’t have to drive. If you’re in the northeast, Antonelle suggests Lake George for an affordable destination. He mentions vacationing in Lake George, which allows you to hike, see fireworks, attend concerts and go to the beach and more for free. There are also many historical museums you can visit and "outlets of some of your favorite stores and brands where you can get great discounts," he says.

Hopefully this will inspire you to get on the move with your kids this summer — without having to remortgage your house.


Stranger Things Spoilers Are (Kind of) Here

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If you're a human and therefore are literally counting down the days until Season 2 of Stranger Things hits Netflix, then do I have some good news for you!

More: Millie Bobby Brown Serves Fans a Heartbreaking Reality Check

The new season premiere is still several months away, but some spoilers have finally hit the web, so if you simply cannot wait until Oct. 31 to get your fix, read on for a sneak peek of what's to come. Obviously, if you're not down for spoilers, this is a good time to stop reading.

Still with me? Good. Here's what we know about Season 2, straight from the mouths of the cast and creators of the show.

First off, things are gonna get dark. Noah Scnapp, who plays Will, says the new season is "darker and more eerie," and for the true horror fans who fell in love with the show, good news: "Scarier stuff happens," according to Finn Wolfhard, who plays Mike. Wolfhard added (big spoiler alert here): "Something happens to Will in the first couple of episodes that’s very, very disturbing."

More: All the Netflix original series available to stream and coming in 2017

That info isn't terribly surprising considering where we left Will at the end of Season 1. He hadn't fully recovered from his time spent in the Upside Down, and according to Gaten Matarazzo, who plays Dustin, he's still not better and his friends have picked up on it by Season 2.

"They know he is not well," Matarazzo said. "But they are just trying to pretend [nothing] happened."

Meanwhile, Mike is pining over the loss of his love interest, Eleven.

"He’s kind of somber," Wolfhard reveals. "He’s kind of given up on life. He has no one to fight for until, slowly as the season progresses, he [becomes] more and more like [the] leader he was in the first season."

Here's the most important spoiler, though. There's a new monster coming in Season 2, and it's going to be bigger and badder than the Demogorgon.

"Last season, a lot of the horror and a lot of what was happening with Will was off screen in the Upside Down," show creator Ross Duffer explained. "That’s not the case [in Season 2]. The horror is more up-close and personal."

More: Things are getting weird in the latest images from "Stranger Things" Season 2

We're ready.

Leonardo DiCaprio & Bros Show Support for Fellow Bro Tobey Maguire at Children's Play

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Leonardo DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire, aka Hollywood's all-time and forever greatest bromance, generally spend their casual hang time being naked on yachts together with gorgeous models around half their age.

More: Leonardo DiCaprio Leads Resistance to Trump's Paris Climate Agreement Decision

But time moves forward, and the age gap between DiCaprio and his model girlfriends grows larger, and his buddies have kids and so sometimes, instead of being naked on a yacht, he has to do dad stuff. Like attending Maguire's 10-year-old daughter Ruby's play. That's a thing that actually happened.

And DiCaprio wasn't the only famous face to show up to that children's production of Beauty and the Beast — Maguire's other Pussy Posse bro friends Kevin Connolly, Lukas Haas and David Blaine were all there too. They all took a break from yachting and model dating to dad-bro out with Maguire, because this bromance is the most pure relationship that exists on Earth.

More: Perpetual Bachelor Leonardo DiCaprio Is Back on the Market

At least that's how we're choosing to interpret this. DiCaprio did just break up with Nina Agdal, and we can't help but wonder a little bit if this dramatic change of pace happened because he's heartbroken over the end of that relationship. Is this a true bro move or a cry for help? We may never know for sure.

Considering the deep and well-documented friendship DiCaprio and Maguire share, we're going to keep assuming this beautiful moment happened out of their love for each other — that Maguire was like, "Dude, I can't go to the club and make out with 20-year-old models today because Ruby's in a play and family is important, you know, bro?" and DiCaprio was like, "Bro, of course, dude. Family rocks. I'll get the guys together and we'll all go, bro!"

More: Leonardo DiCaprio Speaking Italian to the Pope Is Heavenly AF

Yeah, that's definitely what happened.

5 Sex Positions That Prime Women for Orgasm

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For women, having an orgasm can be tricky business — and certainly a bit more complex than it is for most men. We can thank biology for that one in addition to patriarchal, heteronormative cultural forces that have historically prioritized men’s pleasure over women’s.

When it comes to women getting off, sex experts say the key (at least physically) is to stimulate the clitoris, which is the anatomical equivalent of the penis in terms of structure and sensitivity. But because much of the clitoris is buried in tissue, muscle and fat, it can be more complicated and time-consuming to stimulate and bring to orgasm. That anatomical difference is one reason why the term “orgasm gap” was coined — because men’s bodies may make it a bit easier for them to come. But because of outdated societal norms that depict sex as a vehicle for men to get off, they’ve also traditionally had the luxury of expecting to climax, even if it was at the expense of a woman’s pleasure.

More: 8 Sex Positions to Do Anywhere but In Bed

Research by sociologist Elizabeth Armstrong et. al. shows that women who sleep with other women or are in long-term relationships have higher orgasm rates, likely because they’re with partners who either understand their bodies better or are more invested in getting them off. That just goes to show that even if women’s bodies are a bit more nuanced, we’re more than capable of bringing home an orgasm under the right circumstances.

To that end, below you’ll find five sex positions, courtesy of sex therapist Marissa Nelson, that are geared toward serious clitoral stimulation. Because while we won’t argue that sex for the sake of connection isn't fun and all, sometimes a woman just needs to cross the finish line. So let’s all do our part to close the gap!

More: 8 Sex Positions for Lazy Mornings

69

69
Image: Jenny Yuen

"An oldie but always goodie, 69 is a position that couples find to be super-pleasurable, but somehow don’t do enough," says Nelson. "Woman-on-top 69 gives freedom to move your clitoris and position yourself for optimum orgasm. It's always great for both partners to be experiencing pleasure at the same time."

*Gay, lesbian and hetero-friendly

Leg-glider

Leg Glider
Image: Jenny Yuen

"This is a fantastic position for the partner to hit both the G-spot and stimulate the clitoris simultaneously," says Nelson.

*Gay, lesbian and hetero-friendly

Side-to-side

Side to Side
Image: Jenny Yuen

"This is a great position for intimacy," says Nelson. "You can hold each other close and grind in unison, and women can stimulate their clits using the shaft or tip of the partner's penis or strap-on."

*Lesbian and hetero-friendly

Fusion

Fusion
Image: Jenny Yuen

"Female partners can stimulate themselves by rubbing the clitoris on their partner's stomach and/or shaft of the penis," says Nelson. "You can also control of the depth of penetration so you can do what feels best to you and set the pace. Partners can finger or stimulate you during penetration or you can self-pleasure."

*Gay and hetero-friendly

Eve's ecstasy

Eve's Ecstasy
Image: Jenny Yuen

"While the partner gives oral sex, the lover on top can move and grind their pelvis to control stimulation and ultimately make themselves orgasm," says Nelson.

*Gay, lesbian and hetero-friendly

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Gal Gadot Did Some Amazing Things Before She Was Wonder Woman

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When Marvel released Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, the reaction was a resounding meh. Until it came to Wonder Woman. Comic fans cheered her appearance as the best thing about the dark and twisty movie. I know I got chills when she jumped into the fight with that fierce theme music.

With the new Wonder Woman film releasing this weekend (which I’m sure you know is the first female-led superhero movie), Marvel has vaulted Wonder Woman into the 21st century. And they couldn’t have chosen a better woman to represent the ultimate superhero than Israeli actress Gal Gadot.

Just looking at Gadot, you can tell there’s something different. To say she’s beautiful seems diminishing. It’s more about a genuine joie de vivre and magnetic air of relaxed confidence. And she is funny. Trust me. Google some of her interviews. This woman isn’t a feminist icon because of who she’s playing on screen, but because of who she is off screen.

She’s long wanted to inspire women

Gadot grew up after the age of Lynda Carter’s Wonder Woman series, so her knowledge of the character was more cultural than personal. Still, when she began acting — a fluke career that came her way through a series of fortunate events — she knew she wanted to play strong women. Things started clicking for her when she went public with her wish, telling agents, “I wanted to be able to show the stronger side of women. I didn't want to do the obvious role that you see in Hollywood most of the time, which is the heartbroken girl who's waiting to be rescued by the guy, blah, blah, blah. I wanted to do something different. Little did I know that I would land Wonder Woman not long after.”

That goal became even more real when she became a mom. On the Ellen show, Gadot revealed that her daughter’s attitude toward princesses inspired her during the grueling training and freezing-cold location shoot. Maya, now 4 years old, told her mom princes were brave and strong and cool, but princesses? They just fall asleep and wait around to be rescued. Gadot is hoping this Amazonian princess will be one all little girls cheer for.

She didn’t want to be Miss Universe

Just after high school, a pageant scout talked Gadot into entering the 2004 Miss Israel pageant, which she won. That led to modeling opportunities and also required her to compete in the Miss Universe pageant held in Ecuador. She threw the pageant. “I really didn’t want to win the Miss Universe pageant. It was too much being Miss Israel. I was 19. I wasn’t that type of girl. I rebelled. I came down late. I showed up late to everything. They make you wear evening gowns for breakfast. I didn’t wear evening gowns to breakfast. I didn’t wear my makeup. I remember Paula Abdul was part of the judges and she was asking me a question and I just said I don’t understand. And I successfully didn’t win.”

Fist-bump, girl! Breakfast is for bedhead and jammies.

Gal Gadot in 2004 and now
Image: Miss Universe

She’s a real-life warrior

Gadot speaks with much more pride about her time representing Israel in uniform as a member of the Army. Shortly after high school, she reported for her two-year stint, a requirement for all Israeli citizens. She performed well enough to become a weapons trainer and eventually instructed higher-ranking personnel.

Fellow Israeli model Bar Refaeli made the news in 2007 when she was alleged to have dodged her military service. But Gadot said she was glad for the experience. She told Glamour, “Let me start by saying, I wish no country had the need for an army. But in Israel serving is part of being an Israeli. You’ve got to give back to the state. You give two or three years, and it’s not about you. You give your freedom away. You learn discipline and respect. [After the army] I started studying law at university. While I was there, a casting director for Quantum of Solace saw my modeling card on my agency’s wall, and I auditioned to be a Bond Girl.”

She didn't win the role, but the casting director sent her info to director Justin Lin. Impressed by her military background he cast her in Fast and Furious, rewrote her character as a former Mossad agent and let her do her own stunts.

She shuts down shamers

When Marvel announced Gadot as Wonder Woman, there was some surprising criticism. Some people didn’t want a non-American in a role so strongly identified with U.S. “patriotism” (by which they mean what? The outfit?) More people complained that she was too skinny.

Gal Gadot Too Skinny for Wonder Woman

Gal Gadot Too Skinny for Wonder Woman

Reaction to Gal Gadot for Wonder Woman

Reaction to Gal Gadot for Wonder Woman

Gadot laughed off the criticism, especially how much attention was paid to her small chest. She told an Israeli news show, “they asked me here, in Israel, if I have eating disorders and why am I so skinny — they said my head was too big and my body was like a broomstick — I can take anything. It’s just empty talk. I understand that part of what I’m doing means being exposed. And part of being exposed is being under fire. When I was younger, I would take criticism really hard. But now, it mostly amuses me. The true Amazons had one boob so it wouldn’t bother them in their archery. So it’s not going to be like real Amazons. We always try to make everyone happy, but we can’t.” She defined herself as “the Wonder Woman of the new world."

On Jimmy Kimmel's show for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, she took over the segment when she asked Kimmel’s opinion on her breasts.

Gal Gadot on Jimmy Kimmel

Gal Gadot on Jimmy Kimmel

The nine-month training regimen for her appearance in Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice added 17 pounds and a lot of muscle to her frame. She loves it. ““I feel so much better now. When you feel strong, it changes everything — your posture, the way you walk. I look at photos from five years ago and think, ‘Whoa, I was too skinny. It’s not cool.’”

Gal Gadot Workout for Wonder Woman

Gal Gadot Workout for Wonder Woman

Of course Gadot fields a lot of questions about what Wonder Woman represents. Is this just another superhero flick or a feminist statement? Her response? “All of us should be feminist. I’m here because of the feminism movement. And I think that feminism is all about choice and freedom and equality."

Speaking at the celebration when Wonder Woman was made an honorary UN ambassador (the character was later dropped because of criticism), Gadot told the crowd, “Wonder Woman seeks to promote strength, wisdom, leadership, justice and love — qualities that, combined, make us the very best that we can be. Wonder Woman is a fighter, better than most, but it’s what she fights for that is important. It’s her vision of a future of peace and acceptance that makes her the right ambassador for everyone.”

George H. W. Wrote a Sweet Message to Laura on her 92nd Birthday

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Happy birthday to the former First Lady of the United States, Barbara Bush! Today marks the wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother’s 92nd birthday, and the messages have been coming from all directions on Twitter.

More: George W. Bush Is Loving This Donald Trump Presidency

Her husband, former President George H.W. Bush, shared a sweet tweet with his wife by writing, “Happiest of birthdays to Barbara Pierce of Rye, NY. I’m still the luckiest guy in the world,” and sharing an adorable recent picture of them.

George Bush Sr. Tweet

George Bush Sr. Tweet

According to People, the family are spending Mrs. Bush's birthday with a quiet day at their summer home in Maine, including a dinner with family and friends.

More: George H. W. Bush Parachutes for 90th Birthday

Other birthday wishes came from her granddaughter, Jenna Bush Hager, Trump advisor Kellyanne Conway, and the Clinton Library. Talk about being a social butterfly!

Jenna Bush HBD

Jenna Bush HBD

Clinton Library HBD

Clinton Library HBD

Kellyanne Conway HBD

Kellyanne Conway HBD

Beyoncé is Fighting for the Blue Ivy Carter Trademark

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Beyonce Knowles, Queen of Everything, as you know, is heading a slew of legal trouble when it comes to trademarking her daughter’s name, Blue Ivy Carter. For some reason, someone is trying to ruin Bey’s track record of succeeding in every aspect of her life. An event planning company owned by commoner Veronica Morales is opposing the Carter’s renewal process for the trademark, even after years of battle.

More: Did You Catch Beyoncé's Shoutout to the Illuminati in Her Die With You Music Video?

According to Us Weekly, court documents were filed on Tuesday through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, where Knowles’ legal team is “asking the board to deny motion for leave for early discovery.” In simple terms, it means that the event company claims that their name came first because Blue Ivy was born three years after the company started.

Fair enough, but like… Know when to give up your guns. Beyonce’s legal team has forwarded a motion stating that the only reason Morales and her company won’t give up the name is because of “...Mrs. Carter’s fame,” and “news of her newborn daughter and her unique name spread quickly.” The documents also say, “It soon became apparent that those who were searching for news about Mrs. Carter’s daughter, Blue Ivy, would also find the opposer’s wedding planning business.”

More: Beyoncé, Literal Divine Human, Fulfills One Fan's Final Wish

In other words, find someone your own size to profit off of, Veronica Morales! Beyonce simply seeks to trademark the name for familial business purposes, like launching products and a clothing line under her daughter’s name. Nothing has been settled yet, but any agreement short of Blue Ivy gaining the trademark to her own name simply won’t do for the Carter family.

The Complete Guide to Your Cat's Body Language

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Make no mistake — felines are a fickle bunch. Your cat could seem perfectly content curled up on your lap and 10 seconds later deliver a swift swat with an angry paw. What gives, right?

More: 9 Reasons Adopting a Cat Is the Absolute Best

Cats are famous for their mysterious moods, leaving many a bewildered cat lover wondering what they did to offend their beloved pet. Or perhaps, trying to figure out what they did right in order to replicate it. Who wouldn't want more cuddles from a happy cat?

Alas, trying to decipher what your cat is thinking at any given moment can be a total bust — unless, that is, you consider your cat's body language.

To bring you one step closer to finally understanding your feline bestie, we went ahead and broke down what your furry one's body language really means.

Happy or content

Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

If your kitten is either sitting or lying down somewhere purring, well, it's a pretty good indicator they are happy. Other clues include eyes that are half-closed, ears that are forward and a tail that is erect with its fur flat. If your cat is really happy, they might be "making biscuits" — in other words, kneading a soft surface, such as your leg. This is a throwback to their nursing days when they did the same to get mama cat's milk to flow.

More: Why Are Cats So Dang Fussy Over Their Food?

Inquisitive or playful

Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

When your cat's ears start swiveling around like satellite dishes, they're trying to pick up every little sound around them. They're pupils are probably at least somewhat dilated too. We've all seen that sort of wild-eyed glint cats have when being frisky, right? Your cat's tail will likely be up, whiskers forward and best of all, they'll get into pouncing position. Crouched down with their butt in the air, they'll give a little wiggle before leaping into action.

Anxious

Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

If your cat's environment changes in any way, you may also notice some specific changes in your cat's body language. Their ears might move sideways or backward. Their pupils will likely be dilated and their tail tucked between their legs. An anxious cat is a slinking cat — they'll shuffle low to the floor trying to find a suitable place to hide away from the world for a bit.

Annoyed

Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

Remember the aforementioned moments when you're mid-playing with your cat or petting them and they seemingly swat out of nowhere? Chances are, your cat has officially become overstimulated and wants a little space. Of course, this can happen very quickly, so it does seem to come out of left field to us humans at times. Don't feel bad, though — if your cat gives you a slight growl or swats your hand, they're simply trying to give you warning shots. Other indicators you can be on the lookout for are dilated pupils, back-turned ears and a twitching tail.

Frightened or aggressive

Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

A frightened cat and an aggressive cat can look very similar (and truth be told, can be one and the same), so you'll have to be on the lookout for context clues. When startled or angry, a cat's ears go into "airplane mode," or back flat against their heads. They might very well hiss, spit, growl and swat. And not surprisingly, their fur will be standing on end. With an aggressive or angry cat, you will notice very constricted pupils, though, while a startled cat's pupils may be more dilated. In both cases, the cat's tail could either be erect or low, and their back will likely be arched.

Friendly

Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

When your cat comes strolling along with a little crook at the end of its slightly waving tail, it's in a friendly mood. It is giving you the greenlight to give it attention and affection. Ears will be forward, pupils will be dilated and if we're really being honest, it almost looks as though they are smiling a little. This is prime BFF (best feline friend) behavior.

More: A Complete Guide to All Your Dog's Body Language

Possessive

Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

This actually goes hand in hand with friendly body language, as most people mistake it as such. What are we talking about? Why, when your cat rubs against your legs, of course. You may think, "Aww, they're lovin' up on me... how sweet!" And while your cat surely does love you, this body language signifies something else: possessiveness. When your cat rubs against your legs, they're doing so to leave their scent and thereby mark their territory. Yep, you just got owned.


The Breakthrough Option for Treating Unexplained Infertility

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For those experiencing infertility, it can be a long, expensive and sometimes difficult path to finding its cause. But for some, no matter how many tests they take, there is no specific diagnosis in sight, significantly decreasing their chances of pregnancy.

As it turns out, at least 25 percent of unexplained infertility is caused by endometriosis — and the figure could be as high as 40 percent. While endometriosis — which affects approximately 176 million people worldwide — is typically associated with a set of symptoms (namely, severe pain) it is also possible to have the conditions without the symptoms. That’s what a new test panel, ReceptivaDx, is designed to detect.

Unlike laparoscopy, the typical diagnostic technique for endometriosis, the new test can be done quickly and cost-effectively using an endometrial biopsy sample collected during a routine office visit.

More: Knowing When to Draw the Line on Fertility Treatment

“As one of the early adopters of the ReceptivaDx test, our experience has exceeded my expectations,” said Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, a reproductive endocrinologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. “We can now identify and treat women with early endometriosis who might have gone undetected before. For our patients, this has led to improved success rates, reduced costs and the avoidance of multiple IVF cycles.”

There are a few ways of doing the test, which costs $790 with results available in three to five days. One is by doing a mock transfer, meaning that the patients take medications as if they’re going to do their embryo transfer. But rather than transferring an embryo, doctors take a sampling of the cells and study them to make sure there are ideal conditions for the embryo.

Another way of doing the test is during a window after ovulation where you can sample a patient’s uterine lining. Eyvazzadeh said that in order to do this, she talks to her patients ahead of time and plans in advance, as they shouldn’t have sex three to six days before or after the test.

MoreTrying to Conceive? The Important Test Your Gynecologist Isn't Telling You About

Because this is a type of biopsy, it has the potential to be painful. Eyvazzadeh “doesn’t believe in pain” and offers anyone who gets the test done a Valium and a Tylenol with codeine. She said that 90 percent of her patients opt for that combination, while 5 percent choose anesthesia and the remaining 5 percent don’t use anything for the pain.

The test tries to identify an inflammatory marker associated with endometriosis; if the patient has it, they are three times more likely to develop the condition. Although it’s possible to use it as a general test for endometriosis — regardless of whether the patient plans to try to get pregnant – for now, Eyvazzadeh primarily uses it with patients seeking fertility treatment.

Many patients with unexplained infertility don’t have the traditional symptoms of endometriosis, so they would have had no reason to think they had it. Though it doesn’t explain every case of infertility, the new test does help pinpoint the cause for some.

Eyvazzadeh first learned of the test from one of her patients who went through 18 unsuccessful embryo transfers before eventually taking the test, getting pregnant and giving birth.

“I can honestly say that this test has changed lives and helped women carrying pregnancies for themselves,” she said.

For Eyvazzadeh, it’s all about science. She said that she has had patients come to her saying, “Oh, my doctor doesn’t believe in this test. My doctor says I don’t have endometriosis.”

“But this isn’t something to believe in — it’s science,” she explained.

MoreMy Male Partner Won't Agree to a Sperm Analysis — Now What?

Using the test results, Eyvazzadeh determines the best course of treatment for the patient, which may include Lupron Depot — a medication used for endometriosis — as well as suggesting diet and/or lifestyle changes.

“If you communicate to a patient that there are things we can do in 2017 [to help treat infertility], they’ll keep coming back,” she said. “Once you tell someone there’s nothing you can do, they don’t come back.”

When people go through the IVF process to create an embryo, they expect success, Eyvazzadeh said — and she’s going to do everything possible to achieve it. Even, for instance, if her pregnancy rate is 80 percent, she wants it to be 100 percent, and this test has the potential to close that gap.

Eyvazzadeh said that she offers it to every patient, referring to it as “the e-vite to your embryo party.”

“You’re spending all this money; you’ve worked so hard for this embryo. Spend the $700 for this test so you’re giving this embryo its very best chance,” she added.

OITNB Season 5: '[SPOILER] gets a backstory' (finally!) & Other Scoops

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With Season 5 of OITNB dropping on June 9, we're all dying to see how our favorite ladies of Litchfield fare. Considering last we saw them they were in the middle of a riot and Dayanara had a gun to a guard's head, well, we could have guessed things were about to get (even more) intense.

More: OITNB's Season 5 Trailer Gets Political & Induces Goosebumps

Of course, it's next to impossible to dig up any juicy morsels about the upcoming episodes, given that the cast is under strict instructions to shroud their storylines in secrecy. So when we got the chance to chat with Beth Dover (Linda) and Francesca Curran (Skinhead Helen), we knew the stars would be tight-lipped about the turmoil at their characters' penitentiary.

And while we certainly didn't want to get anyone in trouble — especially these two, who are incredibly lovely IRL and wholly unlike their abrasive screen personas — we couldn't resist prying just a bit. Here are the scoops we managed to eke out of 'em.

1. The clock is ticking

OITNB Season 5
Image: Netflix

Unlike any we've seen so far, Season 5 occurs in a super-condense time span. "This season takes place over the course of three days . . . we sort of pick up where we left off, actually," Dover revealed.

2. There may be a reckoning

Although Linda wasn't necessarily directly responsible for the riot at Litchfield, she certainly played a big part in the current chaotic atmosphere — and it looks like karma may just catch up to her. "She's definitely gonna have some things happen to her this season," said Dover. "I guess you'll see whether or not she is held accountable, but yeah, things will happen. For sure."

3. Even the most unsavory characters aren't hopeless

OITNB Season 5
Image: Netflix

Everyone loves when good prevails over evil but, with some of the ladies at Litchfield seem like a lost cause — Linda and Skinhead Helen included. However, both Dover and Curran clued us into the fact that their characters will see some sort of metamorphosis in Season 5. "You will definitely see her evolve this season," Dover said of Linda. "I can say that for sure."

Curran echoed the idea of character growth. "I do think that is an ongoing back-and-forth. It's actually something I've been playing with. They've given me a lot of liberty in making some of those choices, because I personally think it's unrealistic — no matter how bad a person is — to be so angry and hateful 24/7," she said. "I think definitely there are scenes where you're going to see typical Helen. OK, Helen's fighting again. Helen's being aggressive. But I do that that although you're not going to see it come full circle, we do get to see new colors from Helen. Definitely."

4. Caputo still needs a win

Poor Caputo. We finally thought the guy was going to win one, and it looks like he just kicked another hornet's nest. And as much as it kind of tugs on your heartstrings to watch him squirm, Season 5 will likely be another awkward-slash-uncomfortable one for Caputo. "The thing about Caputo is he tries to do well; he really tries. He tries and fails miserably, and he has terrible taste in women. I will say that," Dover shared.

More: OITNB Season 5 Hackers Might Find Themselves in Orange Jumpsuits Very Soon

As far as Linda and Caputo's relationship goes, it sounds like there's something interesting in store. "They had a romantic relationship — it's certainly more than just a fling they were having. But, once again, this season takes place over the course of three days, so we'll just have to see what happens. It's hard to talk about Caputo without saying too much," Dover said, laughing.

5. We get to know Linda

OITNB Season 5
Image: Netflix

One of the best parts of watching OITNB has to be the backstories, right? It's always fascinating to see where the characters came from and who they were beyond the walls of Litchfield. Well, we won't have to wait much longer to crack the curious case of who Linda really is. "Well, you might actually get that this season," Dover said. "Or you will get that this season. I get a backstory."

6. The on-point social commentary continues

Jenji Kohan and the OITNB writers have a true knack for calling attention to the issues plaguing our society, and this season will apparently be no exception to the rule. Using current events as a springboard, the show will delve into controversial topics.

More: OITNB Teases a Crazy Fifth Season

"They're packing prisoners into this prison just to make more money, and they're not giving them tampons and basic things," explained Dover. "Linda's heartless about it. She doesn't really think there's a problem with it. I think they're going to touch on that a lot in this season — the issues inherent with for-profit prisons and all of that!"

Petty Genius Taylor Swift Rereleased All Her Music on Katy Perry's Big Day

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This is a move of a true genius. What follows is the account of a pop singer, locked in a dumb feud with another pop singer as the two endlessly bicker and subtweet one another, finally getting the last laugh.

More: Katy Perry's American Idol Paycheck Revealed, & Holy Shit!

It would appear that, as Taylor Swift re-released her entire music catalogue on to Spotify and Apple Music, she is attempting to get the upper hand in her ongoing feud with Katy Perry. The big kicker, though, is that Swift did this on the release day of Perry's newest album, Witness. Naturally, there's no outright proof that Swift is gunning for Perry. It's not her brand to directly comment on why she did what she did, however she's no stranger to a fiery public feud. It's just not surprising (to me, at least) that Swift would fire off a warning shot; being excluded from this narrative is so 2016.

I am not exactly the biggest fan of either of these singers, but shit, this is hilarious AF to me. It would seem I'm not alone either. Here's how Twitter is responding: 

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 1

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 1

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 2

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 2

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 3

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 3

More: Katy Perry's Thoughts on Ending Her Feud With Taylor Swift Are Confusing

All shadiness aside, Swift has plausible deniability about her exact reasons for this catalogue re-release. The reasons I'm almost sure she'll cite for her re-release could include a softened stance about her music being available for free on a streaming platform, saying that she's changed her views on how streaming services monetize her music. This would be a big swerve from the public fuss she stirred up two years ago, which, when she wrote a letter to Apple Music and then pulled her catalogue altogether.

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 4

Taylor Swift Music Katy Perry Tweet 4

Or, she could tell us that while she's working on new music. It's been well over two years since 1989 was released and Swift could claim she just wants to stay in the pop culture consciousness as much as possible.

More: Calvin Harris, Katy Perry & Taylor Swift Officially Enter a Shade Love Triangle

This move from Swift comes in the space of a few hours after reports surfaced of Perry's interview with NME magazine, where she claimed that Swift tried to "assassinate her character" with the song "Bad Blood." Perry's been keeping Swift's name in her mouth in the promotions for Witness, so it's perhaps not surprising Swift would quietly fire back.

Neither singer has commented at this time about Swift's re-release or Perry's NME comments, but I'm confident we'll all be waiting to see what happens next with bated breath.

Ryan Lochte & Fiancée Welcome Their Firstborn

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Olympic medalist and swim god Ryan Lochte and his model fiancée, Kayla Rae Reid, just welcomed their first child, a baby boy.

Lochte posted on Instagram (the preferred baby announcement route these days): "Never seen a miracle happen before... 7lbs, 14 oz, 22 inches. Can't stop crying from tears of joy. Dream come true!"

Caiden

Caiden

The little Lochte arrived on Thursday, June 8. (He also arrived at 5:46 a.m. if you're into that much detail.) The news was confirmed to Us Weekly by a rep for a the couple.

More: Mommy-shamers attack Jessica Simpson for bikini pic of her daughter

Lochte and Reid got engaged in October 2016 and announced in December 2016 that they were expecting a child. Fast work, guys!

Their cute meet story is, well, pretty cute: the two began dating after literally running into each other in Hollywood — boom! — and steadying themselves by grabbing each other's hands. Awwww... come on!

More: 15 cutest Daddy & me gifts for Father's Day

Reid said of the encounter, "We grabbed each other’s hands and were looking into each other’s eyes. We clicked... I had always heard he was a player and a partier. I always said I would never date an athlete. When I met him, he was the complete opposite of everything I thought he was."

We think she's probably referring to Lochte's unfortunate drunken behavior at the Rio Olympics, which marred both his reputation and the reputation of the U.S. swim team and got him suspended for 10 months from the sport.

More: Is this newborn really walking? Take a look and see

But these are clearly better days for Lochte.

In January 2017, Lochte said he and Reid were hoping to come up with a unique name for their child. We think they didn't do half bad on that account. Welcome to the world, Caiden Zane Lochte.

13 Loose Ends That Will Be Tied Up in Orphan Black's Final Season

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The final season of Orphan Black is right around the corner. It will surely be a sad day when the series comes to an end.

More: QUIZ: Which Orphan Black Clone Are You?

Not only has it given fans an amazing ride, but it's been one TV drama that has empowered women in more ways than one — and that obviously includes the incomparable Tatiana Maslany playing multiple roles.

On June 10, Season 5 finally premieres, so why not get in the spirit of the new season by dropping some teasers. Here's what our fellow Clone Club members can expect from the upcoming episodes. Warning: Based on the following hints, it sure sounds like the last season is going to be a doozy. When isn't it?

1. The clones unite as one

Orphan Black trailer

Orphan Black trailer

As revealed in a Season 5 teaser, it's clear that now more than ever Sarah, Helena, Alison and Cosima will join forces to fight their final battle. "Together we fight with everything we've got," they declare in the video. These four aren't going to give up on each other.

2. Sarah's fate is revealed

Orphan Black sneak peek

Orphan Black sneak peek

If you've been wondering how Sarah is doing after the Season 4 finale, which left her wounded on the island rocks, here you go. We're not lying when we say this scene is super-intense.

More: Orphan Black's Tatiana Maslany's Definition of a Strong Heroine Is Perfect

3. Alison gets kidnapped

Orphan Black S5 video

Orphan Black S5 video

The trailer for the upcoming season shows what appears to be Alison getting kidnapped by some unknown individuals. When are these clones going to catch a break?

4. Helena kills another clone?!

Helena kills a clone

Helena kills a clone

Whoa. Helena totally kills an unknown clone. What is happening?

5. Rachel won't be stopped

Orphan Black Season 5: Rachel and Ira are working together
Image: BBC America

She did stab Susan Duncan, aka her mother, in order to take over Neolution and resume human cloning in the Season 4 finale, so you know very well that Rachel isn't going to give up her power without a fight.

6. Cosima and the cure

Orphan Black Season 5: Cosima will work on the cure
Image: Giphy

Let's not forget Cosima's journey to find the cure and that she escaped the island with half of the replicating cells. Rachel still has the other half. As executive producer Graeme Manson told TVLine in June 2016, "It’s the same [material], but they have vastly different agendas. Cosima wants to cure herself and her sisters. Rachel wants to use that replicating cell line to restart human cloning, and her vision for the clones is not one where they are coddled and given the illusion of freedom and choice while they’re being monitored."

7. Cosima and Delphine will get back on track

Cosima and Delphine

Cosima and Delphine

So they're getting married, right? Doesn't this look like a wedding?

More: Dear fellow Orphan Black Clone Club Members: We Finally Won Last Night

8. Sarah is going to kidnap her own daughter

Orphan Black Season 5: Sarah is going to kidnap Kira
Image: BBC America

Sarah says in the trailer that she's going to kidnap her own daughter, who Rachel seems to have taken hostage. This sure sounds like a rough season for Sarah.

9. Kira's strange connection will be explored

Orphan Black Season 5: Kira's psychic connection
Image: BBC America

Is Kira psychic? What is her connection to the clones? Well, it's something that will be explored. In September 2016, Manson told TVLine, "That has been a[n] enduring mystery, and I’ve always liked the fact that whatever is up with Kira, it’s something that Sarah can’t quite face." He continued, "She’s hasn’t been able to face it or address it because she’s just a little kid. She doesn’t want her to be special or different or chased around or whatever. But I think there’s a reckoning coming this year."

10. The clones' origin will be unveiled

Orphan Black Season 5: clones origins will be uncovered
Image: Giphy

Finally, after four seasons, the one mystery fans have been waiting for will be uncovered. As the season's description reads, "Protecting both her families, and the host of clones she’s yet to meet, Sarah and those still fighting the fight will uncover the missing pieces of the insidious conspiracy — and finally learn the story behind their origin."

11. Someone will most likely die

Orphan Black Season 5 deaths
Image: Giphy

This wouldn't be Orphan Black without a few deaths, right? Let's just hope it's not a beloved character, but it's absolutely a possibility. The description released about Season 5 also revealed that Sarah has a huge battle ahead of her that just might end in demise. "Despite the great risk," the description reads, "the fight of her life will either set her and her sestras free, or see them meet their end."

12. Krystal isn't going anywhere

Orphan Black Season 5: Krystal searches for clone answers
Image: BBC America

Anyone else love Krystal as much as us? Now that she knows something is up, she isn't going to stop looking for answers. That's something she makes very clear in the trailer too. In our opinion, the more Krystal, the better.

More: Q&A with Orphan Black's Kathryn Alexandre

13. Helena's babies & her body are hers

Orphan Black Season 5: Helena's babies
Image: Giphy

Helena will never stop protecting her twins. As she says in the one trailer, "Now we fight to control our bodies," which she absolutely will do in the most Helena way possible.

Who else is excited, yet also a bit scared, for the new season? Orphan Black Season 5 premieres Saturday, June 10 at 10/9c on BBC America.

Why, Yes, You Can DIY a Father's Day Card That Matches Dad's Favorite Shirt

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Sure, you can go the Hallmark route this Father's Day, but homemade cards are just so much better — especially when they're shaped liked little mini dress shirts and are so stinkin' cute you can't even stand it. If the dad in your life suits up for work every day, you really can't go wrong with this easy Father's Day card DIY.

You can make your own quirky Father's Day shirt card — using any paper pattern to match Dad's favorite shirt — in just a few simple steps:

Father's Day shirt card
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Supplies:

  • Decorative paper for shirt (8-1/2 x 11-inch cardstock was used here)
  • Decorative paper for accessories
  • Scissors
  • Glue or double-sided craft tape

Optional Supplies:

  • Bone folder
  • Hole punch
  • Decorative wrapping paper
  • Instructions for DIY Father’s Day shirt card

Throughout the craft, it's important to create crisp folds. A bone folder can help make this easier.

More: 12 Beachy Father's Day Gifts That'll Kick Dad's Summer Off With a Bang

Directions: 

Step 1: Create vertical folds

If using decorative paper, turn the paper over so the right side is facing down. Fold the paper in half.

Father's Day shirt card: Step 1 fold in half
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Lay the paper flat and fold each side up into the center fold. Open up paper and lay it flat.

Father's Day shirt card: Creating vertical folds
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Step 2: Fold bottom corners

Take the bottom left-hand corner and fold it in to the first fold line. Repeat on the other side.

Father's Day shirt card:Fold up bottom corners
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Close the folds back up so the outside sides align with the center fold.

Father's Day shirt card:Fold outside sides in
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Step 3: Create sleeves

Take the bottom side of the paper and fold it up just beyond the upside-down V. Make a nice, crisp fold.

Father's Day shirt card:Fold up bottom portion
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Open bottom fold out again.

Where the paper joins in the middle of the center V, take the inside point and fold it out to the left side edge of paper.

Father's Day shirt card:Bring inside corner to outside edge
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Repeat on the other side. Note: the paper will come up slightly on the bottom.

Father's Day shirt card: Fold up bottom corners
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Take the bottom of the paper and fold it up to just beyond the upside down V. Crease it nice and sharp.

Father's Day shirt card: Fold up to V
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Next Up: Step 4: Create the collar

Updated by Sarah Long on 6/9/2017.

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Step 4: Create the collar

Flip the paper over and go to the top. Fold the top portion over about 1/2-inch (approximating the measurement is fine) so there is a crease at the top.

Father's Day shirt card: Turn card over and fold top
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Flip the paper over so the top crease is to the back. Bring the top left corner to the center fold so that it creates a triangle shape.

Father's Day shirt card:Creating a collar
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Repeat on the right side. Make sure folds are sharp.

More: Can't Afford an iPad for Pops? Make Him This iDad Father's Day Card Instead

Father's Day shirt card: Creating a collar
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Step 5: Complete the shirt

Bring the bottom end up and tuck it underneath the top flaps (the shirt collar). Now you have your basic shirt shape!

Father's Day shirt card: Fold up bottom of shirt
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Step 6: Add a personal message

To add a personal message inside the card, cut out a piece of cardstock that can fit inside the card. The one used here is approximately 3-1/2 inches by 5-1/2 inches. Secure it to shirt with glue or double-sided tape. Write dad a note.

Father's Day shirt card: Add personal message
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Step 7: Accessorize the shirt

Add embellishments to the outside of the shirt to give it some of dad’s style. Ideas to consider include a tie, pocket, bowtie, or buttons.

To make a tie: cut a 1/2-inch strip of decorative paper. If you know how to knot a tie, now’s the time to show your skills. If not, fake it by looping strip around the top until a faux knot is created.

Father's Day shirt card: Loop paper to make a tie
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Father's Day shirt card: Tying a tie knot
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Snip the bottom corners of the paper to create a pointed end. Secure to shirt with a dab of glue or double sided tape.

Father's Day shirt card: Secure tie to shirt
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Next Up: Tie and hanky

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Father's Day shirt card: Tie and hanky

To add a pocket, cut a small square of decorative paper and round-out the bottom edges (tip: use a circle template to get a round bottom). Using the same paper as the personalized message, free-hand cut a small shape to serve as the hanky. Secure it to the shirt with glue or sticky tape.

Father's Day shirt card: Striped tie and pocket hanky
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Father's Day shirt card: Bowtie and buttons

To add a bowtie, cut a small rectangle and slightly snip the corners on a diagonal. Add buttons by using a hole punch. Secure it to the shirt with a dab of glue or sticky tape.

Father's Day shirt card: Bowtie and buttons
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Wrapping paper also works as a substitute for cardstock or decorative scrapbooking paper. This one was made from leftover Christmas wrapping paper. Wrapping paper wrinkles a little easier, though, so if you're using it, plan to make one as a mockup or be very precise when making the first folds.

Father's Day shirt card: Plaid shirt
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Final project: Father's Day shirt card

Father's Day shirt cards
Image: Melissa Dunlap/SheKnows

Father's Day shirt card
Image: Tiffany Egbert/SheKnows

Birth Control Pills Recalled Because of Packaging Error

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A packaging error on Mibelas 24 Fe, a chewable birth control pill, has resulted in a voluntary recall. According to a press release from the Food and Drug Administration, the blister on the package was rotated 180 degrees within the wallet, putting the pills off schedule.

Birth control packaging
Image: FDA

As a result, the first four days of active birth control would have had four of the placebo pills in their place. The packaging mistake also made the lot number and expiration date no longer visible on the package.

MoreTrying to Conceive? The Important Test Your Gynecologist Isn't Telling You About

Another way to tell the difference is that the placebo pills are darker in color than the active pills.

birth control blister pack
Image: FDA

MoreKnowing When to Draw the Line on Fertility Treatment

For those using the Mibelas 24 Fe pill for contraceptive purposes, taking the pills out of sequence could result in an unintended pregnancy. This includes patients who would experience serious health consequences if they became pregnant — although to date, the FDA said there had been no reports of such events.

More: The Breakthrough Option for Treating Unexplained Infertility

Lupin, the pharmaceutical company that makes the pills, has notified its distributors and customers via a letter. If you think your birth control pills have been affected, contact your physician or health care provider. Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact Lupin by phone 1-800-399-2561, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.


Luke Bryan’s Future Collaborations Might Surprise His Fans

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Country music has been stepping outside of its roots for the last decade, with artists like Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift giving country a pop twang. Though country purists haven’t necessarily complained — a lot of country songs have reached No. 1 in the charts since 2000, making it one of the most popular genres in the United States — there’s no denying that the down ’n’ dirty music is changing. But who thought Luke Bryan would be a part of that?

More: Luke Bryan's family has had more than their share of tragedy

Bryan, who hosted the 2017 CMT Music Awards this Wednesday, has been covering some of pop star Jason Derulo’s songs on tour, and the two have been BFFs since Derulo found out. Derulo told People, “I was like ‘holy shit, Luke is covering my songs.’ We became great friends after that, and the rest is history.”

More: Luke Bryan jokes Gwen Stefani is a better catch than Miranda Lambert

Besides performing one of Derulo’s songs, Want to Want Me, at the awards show, the buds bro’ed down just the day before. “He threw me into the country living… Huntin’ and fishin’,” said Derulo. And when asked who Bryan would want to collaborate with for CMT Crossroads, a TV show where country music stars sing with musicians from other genres, Bryan’s choice was super obvious.

Luke Bryan For Jason Derulo

Luke Bryan For Jason Derulo

So what does this mean for Bryan’s music? Will he genuinely work on an album with Jason Derulo? What would that music even sound like? Will it be like Kendrick Lamar randomly showing up in Taylor Swift’s Bad Blood music video, where the two just didn’t make sense together, musically or politically? (Swift did allegedly vote for Trump, after all.) Or will it really actually work because of the friendship Bryan and Derulo have?

More: Why is country music so lit for Brad Paisley?

Who knows. Maybe this is really just a bromance to fall in love with from the outside. Or there’s some new music brewing that you’ll hear on every radio station and it’ll be the summer song of 2017. Whatever it all means, it’s definitely something exciting in the country music scene.

Sheryl Sandberg on Navigating Life After Loss

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After the sudden death of her husband, Dave Goldberg, in 2015, Facebook COO and Lean In author Sheryl Sandberg had to figure out what life would be like without him. The result is the new book Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy (co-authored by University of Pennsylvania professor Adam Grant).

We spoke to Sandberg about her own journey through grief and trauma and how she's helped her children cope with loss.

SheKnows: At what point in the grieving process did you realize that you needed to write this book?

Sheryl Sandberg: After Dave died, I called my friend Adam, a psychologist who studies how people find meaning in our lives, and I asked him what, if anything, I could do to help myself and my kids get through this. We started talking about resilience, then reading about it, then talking to other people who had gotten through grief and other huge challenges. In time, those conversations and that research helped me heal. Eventually, we thought we should put it all in a book in case it would prove helpful to others. The other piece of the book grows out of the journal that I began just a few days after Dave died. It was something I felt compelled to do. If I didn’t write in my journal every couple of days, I felt like I was going to burst. Later I learned the research about how important journaling can be to recovering from trauma and grief. That was definitely true for me.

SK: How would your process have been different if you’d been able to read Option B soon after Dave’s death?

SS: There’s no easy path through grief and trauma. For me, working with Adam to understand how people build resilience was helpful. Learning from the experiences of people who’d been through similar losses was helpful. We put a lot of those insights into the book in the hopes that it would help others.

SK: You are forthcoming about many of the raw and devastating moments that followed and yet Option B is ultimately an uplifting read. How did you and Adam accomplish that?

SS: I’m glad you feel that way, because it’s exactly what we were hoping to achieve. One thing that I think makes this a fundamentally hopeful book is that it includes a lot of stories of extraordinary people. When you read about Tim Chambers, the painter who went legally blind but is still creating beautiful art, or Steven and Danny, who spent time in prison before attending UC Berkeley, becoming friends and forming a campus organization to support other formerly incarcerated students, it’s hard not to feel your heart lift a little.

SK: In one particular story you describe how, after returning to Facebook, part of your healing process was for you to challenge yourself to be honest about your own feelings and with co-workers. As a result, you began to encourage people to be more transparent about what they were dealing with in their personal lives and to explore ways to create an environment where people felt safe and supported. One employee was diagnosed with cancer and debated if she should take a global promotion. When she ultimately took it, she got up and told her 200-plus person team about her illness and challenges, largely due to your mentorship. What are three things business leaders can do to enforce a more empathetic culture at work?

SS: The woman you’re describing, Caryn Marooney, is one of the most inspirational people I work with, and that’s saying a lot. By sharing this huge challenge that she was going through, her team has actually become stronger. They’ve pulled together to help her, and they’ve started sharing more of their own personal and professional challenges. I have long believed that we need to bring our whole selves to work. We’re told to leave our private lives at home and just focus on work at work, but that’s not realistic. And as Caryn’s story proves, it can rob us of the opportunity to grow closer as a team. A manager encourages empathy at work by leading by example. That can mean sharing what they are going through, like Caryn did. It means creating an environment where employees feel secure coming to you and saying, "I want to let you know about this challenge I’m dealing with outside of work because it might affect me at work — I’m only human, after all." One of the main lessons I learned when I lost Dave is that trauma can lead to self-doubt in all areas of life, including the workplace. Encouragement is key. Now when someone at work is dealing with a tragedy, I start by offering them time off, just like I did before — but I also know how important it can be to treat them as a regular member of the team and praise them when they do good work. Many managers have the instinct to take things off an employee’s plate when they’re facing something difficult. That’s a good idea, but sometimes, it’s even better to offer them new opportunities if they feel up to it. It can be exactly what someone needs when another piece of their life is a source of worry or grief.

SK: How did the bereavement policy at Facebook change as a result of your experience? What advice do you have for other business leaders on how to change theirs?

SS: I was grateful that Facebook already had generous bereavement policies in place when Dave died, and I’m glad that we were able to further expand those policies. Now Facebook employees receive 20 days paid leave to grieve the loss of an immediate family member and 10 days for an extended family member. I’m proud that we’re able to do this and I hope more businesses do the same. Only 60 percent of private sector workers get paid time off after the death of a loved one, and then it’s usually just a few days. Workers and families deserve better than that. I’d urge businesses that have no paid leave policy or only a modest one to explore whether they can do better. There’s an economic case for this: grief affects job performance, so giving workers time off to grieve can lead to stronger outcomes at work. And when companies offer support and assistance for personal and family hardships, their employees become more loyal and more productive.

Next up: Sheryl Sandberg talks about helping kids navigate loss

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Sheryl Sandberg Option B
Image: Amazon

SK: Will there eventually be a place for older kids/teenagers to connect with other kids on OptionB.org, or is it just for adults?

SS: Teenagers are already more than welcome at OptionB.org! Anyone 13 or older can join our Facebook groups. For kids younger than that, we’re focused on helping adults (parents, teachers, coaches) who want to help kids become more resilient. There are concrete things we can do to build resilience in kids and help them navigate loss and other challenges. They deserve just as much support as anyone else.

SK: You recently said in reference to Lean In that the book did not improve things for women in terms of leadership and that "we are stuck at less than 6 percent of the Fortune 500 CEO jobs and their equivalent in almost every country in the world." The book in terms of a movement, a community and a household term could not have been more successful. Even with massive success, it’s so hard to institute change. What are your realistic hopes for Option B in terms of making an impact?

SS: I think Lean In has a significant impact in the lives of individual women — and men, for that matter. There are more than 30,000 Lean In Circles around the world where women and men get together on a regular basis to seek advice and support each other’s aspirations. That’s all terrific. But on a national and international level, we’re not nearly where we should be. We have so much more to do. I for one am more determined than ever. My hope for Option B it is that it can give people suffering from grief or other life-changing challenges a sense of hope that things can get better. I hope it offers useful advice, both to those who are going through hard times and to their friends and loved ones. And like Lean In, I hope it leads to broader change — in workplaces, schools and communities. I suspect that level of change will be hard to achieve, as it is for women in leadership. But that just means we have to work harder to get it done.

SK: What’s the best advice for young children when it comes to displaying framed pictures in their room of a parent who’s passed away?

SS: Every family has to make the choice that’s right for them, but personally, I think it’s a great thing to do. It’s been very important to me to keep Dave’s memory alive for my kids. They were so young when he died that their memories of him will fade, which completely breaks my heart. It’s up to me to make sure they know him. Here’s what that means for us. Our home is full of pictures of Dave. Dozens of Dave’s closest family members, friends and colleagues have recorded their memories of him on video for the kids to watch and rewatch throughout their lives. The kids also recorded their own memories of their dad, and if they ever feel like they’re forgetting him, those videos are a huge comfort. And most importantly, we talk about him all the time. There’s rarely a day that goes by that we don’t talk about him. I’ve seen adults flinch when Dave comes up in conversation, but for my kids, it’s the most natural thing in the world, and that's exactly right. He’s their dad.

SK: What did you think the other day when you read about Prince Harry admitting on a British podcast that he recently sought help to cope with his mother's death after 20 years of ignoring it?

SS: I think that was a brave and wonderful thing to do. More people who need help will seek it now. I hope more leaders will follow his example.

SK: You mentioned in the book how important it is for you to shoot more video now — that you wish you had more video of Dave moving and talking — and now you are super-mindful to capture more. What else do you find yourself trying to do every day that you didn’t do before?

SS: Mostly I just wish I had savored each and every day we had together. If I had known that we would have only 11 years together, I would have made sure we spent more time together. More importantly, I would have cherished each and every day. Over time, I’ve made peace with these regrets — and I realize that every day I still have a chance to appreciate what that day holds. What’s left is a determination to experience every last bit of joy with my kids, my family and my friends. I feel grateful every day for what I have.

SK: You also write how you and Dave played Settlers of Catan, Scrabble and watched Game of Thrones together to relax. You share that it took a while for you to start playing Scrabble again, but have you’ve been able to go back to Game of Thrones? What do you think Dave would have said when we learned the genesis of Hodor’s name?

SS: I am all caught up on Game of Thrones and am really looking forward to the new season. Dave, like all of us, would have been blown away by revelation about Hodor. What a hero!

Twins for The Bachelor's Vienna Girardi?

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Vienna Girardi, season 14's winner of The Bachelor (ah, remember pilot Jake Pavelka?), decided to get with the coolest trend around: announcing that twins are in her future with a post on Instagram.

(Really. Get with the program. Go get knocked up with twins and post something cute on social media, stat. Everybody's doing it, from Beyoncé and Jay Z to Amal and George Clooney to Jaime Pressly and Hamzi Hijazi. It's a thing.)

vienna twins

vienna twins

Girardi shared a photo of an ultrasound labeled "TWIN A" and "TWIN B," encircled by a heart. (We're hoping she eventually goes with more intriguing baby names than A and B.) The picture also had the message, "Twice the Blessing, Twice the Fun."

Also, twice the poo, twice the puke, twice the lack of sleep, but hey, let's keep things light for Girardi's sake.

More: 21 Pregnant Celebs Who Style That Bump Right

Girardi (also a Bachelor Pad alum) and Pavelka infamously called it quits on their engagement over the phone just three months after she accepted his final rose.

She's stayed out of the spotlight for several years after dating former Bachelorette contestant Kasey Kahl while filming Bachelor Pad. Kahl and Girardi were over in late 2011.

Twin A and Twin B are Girardi's first children. We're telling you — there's something in the water right now. Who's next up for twins?

Melissa McCarthy Is Making a Christmas Movie That's Jolly AF

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Before we get into this, I gotta confess. I will watch any Christmas movie at any time and be delighted by it. From Bad Santa all the way to those terrible, vaguely holiday themed Lifetime romance movies, I love them all. Christmas is my happy place.

More: 7 Women Donald Trump Has Tried (& Failed) to Silence Since Becoming President

That said, Melissa McCarthy's Christmas movie just got green-lit and I am stoked. McCarthy is producing and starring, while her husband, Ben Falcone, is directing Margie Claus, the story of a daring rescue effort organized by Mrs. Claus after Santa goes missing while delivering presents on Christmas Eve. McCarthy's Mrs. Claus will put together a ragtag team of rescuers and leave the North Pole for the first time in decades in order to save her husband. Apparently they're going for an Elf vibe with this, and I totally see it. Also, it's a musical, which will mark the first time McCarthy sings on-screen, but it's cool. I'm still here for it.

More: Melissa McCarthy's Response to Sexist Critics of her Films Is Perfect

Honestly, the premise just sounds so delightful, I hardly care about the quality of the comedy. This one could go one of two ways, though. McCarthy is more than capable of smart, punchy comedy (like in Ghostbusters and St. Vincent, and during her hilarious post-election work on Saturday Night Live). But she also kind of has a habit of using her body as a prop, playing the hapless, fat ne'er-do-well, like in Bridesmaids and Spy. With her in the leading role — and playing a character who is traditionally plump and accepted that way — it's hard to see Margie Claus going down that path, but the possibility is still there.

More: Melissa McCarthy Perfectly Sums Up Real Women in 4 Words

Margie Claus is set to be released by New Line Cinemas sometime around Thanksgiving.

Baby Gate Recall: Is Yours a Danger?

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Uh-oh. Is your baby gate part of the latest recall?

Madison Mill has alerted parents to a recall of two versions of the company's popular baby gates. The gates in question are the Madison Mill 23, which expands to 3 feet, and the Madison Mill 25, which expands to 5 feet wide.

The reason for the recall? Potential strangulation and entrapment — scary stuff.

More: Are you affected by the Evenflo booster seat recall?

"A young child's neck can fit into the 'V' shaped opening along the top edge of the gate, posing entrapment and strangulation hazards to young children," The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said on its website. "Also, young children can pass under the gate allowing access to restricted areas, such as stairs."

Both types of gates were sold in hardware stores and online between January 2013 and May 2017. Madison Mill urges customers to stop using these gates immediately and to contact the company for a full refund.

More: Oh no — Jessica Alba's Honest Company is facing yet another recall

Word of caution: Though the recall is specifically related to Madison Mill gates, if you have a similar foldaway expandable gate in use at home, check carefully to be sure your child's head or neck cannot squeeze into any of the openings — or fit underneath the gate while it is installed in a doorway.

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