Nicole Kidman turns 50 years old today. We've been following her through three decades of movies, in which she's played everything from an archaeologist to a professor to a princess, and we still haven't had enough of this smart, strong, amazing actress. We've also followed her through a tumultuous marriage with Scientologist Tom Cruise and a way, way less tumultuous relationship with country singer Keith Urban. This is all to say: Happy birthday! Please don't stop acting! We love you!

More: Nicole Kidman Can Hardly Believe She Married Tom Cruise at Such a Young Age

Over the years, Kidman has won an Academy Award, three Golden Globe awards, and a mountain of other awards and nominations. Most recently, we've loved her in Big Little Lies. But what we remember best, of course, is watching her most notable films on the big screen for the first time, from her breakthrough role in Dead Calm to her Academy Award-nominated role in Lion.

Let's take a closer look at the stand-out films that make Kidman stand out for us.

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Dead Calm (1989) 

Nicole Kidman was just 19 years old when she started filming the maritime thriller Dead Calm, her breakout film. It's amazing how you can already tell that she's going to be a star — and also that her Australian accent is on full display. It's a great movie and a great look at how everything began.

Days of Thunder (1990) 

Even if you don't remember Dead Calm, we're guessing you do remember Days of Thunder, which was released a year later. It's rumored that Tom Cruise specifically requested Kidman to be his love interest in the big-budget NASCAR drama after seeing Dead Calm — and that's when the couple's 11-year relationship began. This is a bit of a cheesy early-'90s film filled with not-so-great dialogue, but we kind of love it anyway. Not to mention we love Kidman playing a hot but no-nonsense doctor.

Far and Away (1992) 

Kidman and Cruise were married not long after the release of Days of Thunder and worked together again in Far and Away, an epic story of a couple who travels overseas to America to start a new life in the early 1890s. The chemistry between the pair in this movie is epic, and we still love the also epic Great Land Rush scene at the end of the film.

Batman Forever (1995) 

OK, we are not going to argue that Batman Forever was the best Batman movie ever, or even that it's close (actually, now that we think about it, it's probably the second-to-worst Batman movie ever, after 1996's Batman and Robin). But in it, Kidman returns to another role as a doctor, this time as Bruce Wayne/Batman's love interest. This is also the year that Kidman and Cruise adopted their second child, Connor.

To Die For (1995) 

This often-forgotten film stars Kidman not as a love interest but as a manipulative insane woman who is willing to do anything to become a newscaster, including seducing a teen and then convincing him to kill her husband. Many people thought Kidman should have received an Oscar nomination for her part, and many actresses say that Kidman's decision to play a "bad guy" inspired them to make similar choices. Reese Witherspoon was inspired to make Election, Charlize Theron was inspired to take on Young Adult and Rosamund Pike was inspired in her role for Gone Girl.

Eyes Wide Shut (1999) 

This is the third and last movie that Kidman made alongside then-husband Tom Cruise and the last movie ever directed by Stanley Kubrick, who died just days after the film was finished. Kidman has said that this film is one of her favorites and that being directed by Kubrick was like attending acting school. This is the only film in which Kidman and Cruise play a married couple, and it's known not only for its careful directing but also its explicit sex scenes.

Moulin Rouge! (2001) 

After taking a short hiatus during her divorce from Cruise, Kidman returned to the silver screen big time with her starring role in Moulin Rouge! In addition to her acting ability, Kidman can sing, and her performance as a cabaret performer in the Baz Lurhmann musical secured her her first Best Actress Oscar nomination. The movie was also nominated for Best Film.

The Hours (2002) 

Newly free from her tumultuous marriage, Kidman continued to hit her acting stride. In 2002, she played Virginia Woolf in The Hours and finally secured an Oscar for Best Actress (despite only appearing in the film for 28 minutes). The movie, which also starred Meryl Streep and Julianne Moore, was a box office success as well as a critical success. Kidman wore a false nose throughout filming.

Cold Mountain (2003) 

The next year, Kidman appeared in the epic Civil War drama Cold Mountain, in which she played Ada Monroe, a strong woman trying to survive the war and reconnect with her lover (played by Jude Law). This was another box office hit and resulted in Kidman's sixth Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.

The Stepford Wives (2004) 

Kidman continued to take on a wide range of roles in 2004, when she signed on to play the lead in the comedy/thriller Stepford Wives. While the movie saw success, and while Kidman was excited to work with Frank Oz, she has said in interviews that she was not happy with her experience. There were reports that she didn't like the final script and that she didn't get along with co-star Bette Midler.

Rabbit Hole (2010) 

By this time, Kidman had met and married country singer Keith Urban. The couple, who have now been married for more than 10 years, had two children, born in 2008 and 2010. Also in 2010, Kidman starred in this movie adaptation of the play Rabbit Hole, which is about a couple struggling to survive after the accidental death of their young son. The quiet indie film snagged Kidman acting nominations from the Academy Awards, the Golden Globe Awards, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Grace of Monaco (2015) 

In 2015, Kidman played Grace Kelly in Grace of Monaco. While her acting in the film was praised, the movie did not do well at the box office or according to critics. In a BBC interview, Kidman said, "I did do my best and obviously it didn't work."

Queen of the Desert (2015) 

Kidman continued her biopic kick in 2015 with Queen of the Desert, which chronicled the life of Gertrude Bell, a British explorer, writer, archaeologist and cartographer. It was the first theatrical film directed by Werner Herzog in almost six years. Also, Kidman learned how to ride a camel for the movie.

Lion (2016) 

Last year, Kidman earned her fourth Academy Award nomination, this time for portraying an adoptive mother in the drama Lion. The movie, which tells the story of an Indian boy searching for his biological mother, was released to wide critical acclaim. Kidman formed a strong bond with the real-life Sue Brierly and studied her in order to play the role.

More: Tom Cruise's Daughter's Wedding Could Mean She's Leaving Scientology

What's your favorite Nicole Kidman film? Sound off in the comments!

Jay Z is the gift that keeps on giving. This time, he's gifting us a new song to herald the arrival of his next album. The new song, "Adnis," comes from his album 4:44, which will also be the title of a short film that will be released on Tidal — the mogul's music-streaming service — in a collaboration with Sprint, and it reportedly drops June 30. What the heck are you up to, Jay?

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A snippet of "Adnis" can be heard playing over a new clip from the 4:44 film. It sounds a little laconic, a little contemplative and completely in Jay Z's lane. He raps, "Letter to my dad that I never wrote/Speeches I prepared that I never spoke/Words on a paper that I never read/Prose is never penned, they stayed in my head." It sounds like the hip-hop superstar may be dealing with some daddy issues on his new album. Considering it's been a hot minute since his last album, Magna Carta Holy Grail, came out, this is a joyous surprise for us all no matter which way you slice it.

The release of "Adnis" comes hot on the heels of the happy news that Jay Z is a new father once more and twice over with the reported arrival of his twins earlier last week (possibly around June 12). This is a great time to be alive if you're Jay Z (what with this new music news and a growing family) and if you're a fan of Jay Z (because, duh, it's time to get hyped about his album and his new film).

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

What exactly is 4:44 about though? The project is being kept under wraps, but what we do know is that revered actors Danny Glover, Mahershala Ali and Lupita Nyong'o are involved. The first trailer for the film looks stunning. Shot in black and white, the story appears to focus on a young boxer (Ali) and his trainer (Glover). It seems like Jay Z's new songs will provide the score for the film, much in the way Beyoncé's album, Lemonade, scored the film version of Lemonade.

More: Beyoncé's Mom Can't Wait to Spoil the Twins With "Noisy Toys"

Bless you, Jay Z, for this glorious surprise.

Almost six months after her death, we’ve now learned that Carrie Fisher had cocaine, methadone, heroin and ecstasy in her system when she died according to an autopsy report released today.

Although Fisher’s family objected to a full autopsy, toxicology tests and an external examination of the actor and activist’s body were conducted in order to help identify the cause of death. According to the report, the coroner listed sleep apnea as her primary cause of death, with use of drugs as a contributing factor.

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On Dec. 27, 2016, Fisher went into cardiac arrest on a flight from London to Los Angeles and never recovered. The autopsy report says that her assistant was with her on the plane and that she had “multiple apneic episodes” — meaning that she stopped breathing while she was asleep — which for her, was normal. But by the end of the flight, she didn’t wake up.

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It was not exactly clear when Fisher had taken cocaine and the autopsy report found that it could have been as early as three days before her flight. It also found that she likely had been exposed to heroin, which may have inhibited her breathing as she was sleeping. She was also taking several legal drugs prescribed to her, including Prozac, Abilify and Lamictal in addition to taking oxycodone without a prescription.

Although multiple illegal and legal substances were found in Fisher’s system, it’s still unclear whether any were the specific reason for her death.

More: Celebs, Including Harrison Ford, React to Carrie Fisher's Death

“Based on the available toxicological information, we cannot establish the significance of the multiple substances that were detected in Ms. Fisher’s blood and tissue, with regard to the cause of death,” the report indicates.

A massive congrats are in order for Josh Peck and his new bride, Paige O'Brien! People reports that the couple was married in Malibu over the weekend and the photos from the ceremony indicate that the ceremony was a special one indeed. One very interesting thing to make note of is who Peck and O'Brien invited to their wedding. It appears Peck's Grandfathered co-star, John Stamos, was invited to the wedding, but oddly enough, Peck's longtime Drake & Josh co-star Drake Bell was not in attendance. What gives, Peck?

More: This Picture of Lea Michele & John Stamos Kissing May Be Our Undoing

Before I even touch the shadiness of the no-Bell invite and the alleged fallout (because trust me, there are reported receipts about Bell's annoyance at not being invited), let's just focus on the beauty of Stamos and Peck for a second. While the pair was unable to continue hanging out around the set of Grandfathered, which was canceled after its first season, the two appear to have maintained a close enough relationship that Peck invited him to the wedding. Can you even imagine what kind of a wedding guest Stamos would be? I'd bet all my money that he's gives a damn good wedding toast and he'd probably try and romance a few bridesmaids — this is Stamos we're talking about.

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Stamos even took a moment to pose for a special photo with Peck and Peck's father. Peck actually captioned this sweet little picture with, "Happy Father's Day to BOTH my dads. #happyfathersday #daddyaf." Cute, right?

Well, reportedly, Bell was pissed about not getting invited to the wedding. While the tweet has been deleted, E! News alleges that he tweeted out, "When you're not invited to the wedding the message is clear...." and then subsequently allegedly tweeted, ""Loyalty is key. ALWAYS remember where you came from." It definitely sounds like Bell was less than pleased at being left out of this special event, huh?

More: Wait, Were John Stamos & Ashley Benson Ever Really a Thing?

All shadiness aside, this definitely looked like a happy occasion for Peck, who celebrated with those he cared about. Congrats to the new couple!

Although we’ve known for a while that many common household products can make us sick, it can be hard to switch up longstanding cleaning routines. But if you’re looking for another reason to ditch some of those chemical-heavy products, a new study suggests that the use of two compounds in particular could result in birth defects.

More: What Toxic Household Items Are You Using?

Research out of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech found a connection between two chemicals used in products containing disinfectants and preservatives and neural tube birth defects in both mice and rats — the kind that results in spina bifida and anencephaly in humans.

The chemicals, known as quaternary ammonium compounds — or “quats” — are found in products we use every day, like cleaners, laundry detergent, fabric softener, shampoo, conditioner and eye drops.

"These chemicals are regularly used in the home, hospital, public spaces, and swimming pools," said Terry Hrubec, associate professor of anatomy at the VCOM-Virginia campus and research assistant professor in the veterinary college's Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology. "Most people are exposed on a regular basis."

Hrubec and her team found that the birth defects occur when both males and females — or just one parent — were exposed to the chemicals. This is significant, Hrubec said, because the fact that birth defects were seen when only the father was exposed to the chemicals means that we need to rethink our concept of prenatal care to include fathers.

More: Aluminum Foil & 5 Other Common Kitchen Items That Are Toxic When Used to Cook

And it gets worse. The research found that the mice and rats didn’t even need to come in physical contact with the chemicals to see the dangerous consequences. Just being in the same room as the quat-based cleaners was enough to cause birth defects. Hrubec and her team also observed increased birth defects in rodents for two generations after stopping exposure to the chemical compounds.

But so far, only mice and rats have been involved in the clinical trials. What does this mean for humans?

"We are asked all of the time, 'You see your results in mice. How do you know that it's toxic in humans?'" Hrubec said. "Our research on mice and rats shows that these chemicals affect the embryonic development of these animals. Since rodent research is the gold standard in the biomedical sciences, this raises a big red flag that these chemicals may be toxic to humans as well."

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Quats were first introduced in the 1950s — before the standardization of toxicity studies. Although some chemical companies claim to have conducted their own tests, none were ever published. Today, these compounds are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency.

For more information and consumer guides to common products that could pose a danger to your health, visit the Environmental Working Group website.

Gwen Stefani's taste in baked goods is as eclectic and unique as the songs she's produced over her long music career. She surprised boyfriend Blake Shelton with a giant armadillo cake on his 41st birthday, which took place on Father's Day.

Check it out:

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It kind of reminds us of that armadillo cake scene in Steel Magnolias (maybe Stefani's a fan?). Either way, the cake is remarkably lifelike. It looks like it might jump up and join the party!

Stefani also posted a cute Instagram of herself and Shelton with the caption, "I get to kiss on the birthday boy," with the hashtag #happybirthdaycowboy.

More: Blake Shelton was Gwen Stefani's biggest fan at the AMAs (VIDEO)

The couple, who have been dating since 2015, have now celebrated two birthdays together. In 2016, Stefani marked Shelton’s big 40th birthday with a serenade on his tour bus. This celebration feels more intimate, but just as memorable.

If nothing else, Stefani's setting the bar high and offering some inspiration for thinking outside the box when it comes to birthday cake. Although come to think of it, Amal Clooney definitely gives her some competition with the custom tequila bar cake she got George Clooney on his 56th.

Despite the darkness swirling around the Bachelor in Paradise franchise, it seems there is one ray of sunshine determined to burst through. That ray of light comes in the form of BIP's Evan Waddell and Carly Bass officially tying the knot over the weekend in a private ceremony in Mexico. Congrats are definitely in order!

More: Don't Worry — Carly Waddell & Evan Bass Are Still Getting Married on TV

The couple have yet to post photos from their nuptials (probably too busy celebrating, which is totally understandable), but People has reported as many details as possible from the wedding. According to the magazine, Bass and Waddell were married in a small ceremony in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Included among the guests was another Bachelor Nation couple, Jade and Tanner Tolbert. Best of all, Chris Harrison actually officiated the wedding, making this entire event a work of magical Bachelor goodness.

More: 2017 Is Already Oh, So Good — a Bachelor in Paradise Wedding Is Coming

The couple met on the third season of Bachelor in Paradise, and were set up at first to be total opposites. It appeared that in their case, opposites actually attract; by the end of the show's season, Bass was on bended knee and asking Waddell to marry him. Afterward, the two settled down in Nashville with Bass' three sons. Speaking to People previously, Waddell revealed what keeps them close as a couple. "We have great communication. It's what we had as friends and it’s what keeps us in love," she told the magazine.

More: Bachelor in Paradise Is Coming Back to Haunt Bachelor Nick Viall

There's no information yet on when their wedding will be televised, but there's also no confirmation that it will not air in light on the recent BIP scandal. Previous reports mention that the Waddell-Bass wedding was to air alongside the BIP season premiere on Aug. 8. With that new season totally nixed, it remains to be seen whether fans will get to enjoy the wedding at all. Let's hope we still can, because honestly, who doesn't enjoy a good wedding?

What’s it like to not be pregnant and not to get your period at all?

For some people who menstruate, like Sarah, it’s a giant relief. She hasn’t had a period in over a year, which she considers “super-liberating.” Sarah originally started taking birth control during college to regulate pre-period mood swings, but after being diagnosed with endometriosis in her mid-20s, she chose to stop taking the placebo pills in her birth control pack, and now takes the same dose all the time, so she doesn’t menstruate at all, alleviating the pain caused by growing endometrial tissue.

More: Irregular Periods Explained: 8 Big Reasons Your Period's Gone MIA

Painful symptoms connected with periods are the main reason one might choose to suppress menstruation. Katharine experienced severe menstrual migraines and first stopped menstruating via Depo, then the mini-pill and then opted for an IUD to see if she could take a break from hormones. “The answer was no,” she said.” After so many years without getting my period regularly, getting it again was miserable.” Now, she’s back on the mini-pill and period-free.

Other reasons for opting out of menstruation? Menstrual products are expensive, and heavy periods can impede one’s quality of life. Alyssa called her doctor after bleeding through an expensive pair of pants and having to cancel a rock-climbing trip because of her period. “A week out of the month, I couldn’t live the way I wanted to,” she said.

A transgender man may also choose to end menstruation as part of gender transition.

So how does eliminating your period work?

Birth control can be used to regulate periods and symptoms to the point that you can get a period once every three months or even once a year. A continuous dose of hormones is used to suppress periods altogether. Alyssa chose to have an endometrial ablation, a procedure which cauterizes the uterus, since she didn’t want to use hormones to end her period.

More: 7 yoga poses to avoid during your period

If your periods are a nightmare, it’s a good idea to investigate why, and the answer to alleviating your pain might come in the form of menstrual suppression or at least regulation. But when is it a bad idea?

Dr. Jen Stagg, a naturopathic physician in private practice in Connecticut, advises that those with an increased risk of certain types of cancer and clotting disorders not suppress since hormones can exacerbate the likelihood of developing conditions or making them worse. “Many women like the reassurance of having a period to confirm they aren’t pregnant,” said Stagg. “There’s also evidence that experiencing natural cycles can be important for memory and emotional health.” Stagg also cited a recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, which linked hormonal birth control to a higher rate of being diagnosed with depression.

There are also risks associated with period suppression, which are the same risks as those that come with taking birth control pills: increased risk of blood clots, strokes and various cancers, particularly breast, liver and cervical. Getting pregnant after suppressing your period may also take a while.

When discussing periods, it’s important to acknowledge the role that period stigma plays in our daily lives and to consider what it might mean in the context of menstrual suppression. “I think for some women, period stigma is what prompts them to seek menstrual suppression,” said Stagg.

It’s impossible to be someone who gets their period and not experience to some degree the social taboo that comes with menstruation. We’re taught to hide our pads and tampons, that no one, especially men, should know when we’re getting our periods or when we have them, that PMS is a joke, menstruation is dirty and period sex is out of the question. Our motivation to suppress our periods might have to do with wishing to eliminate not only pain and inconvenience, but also, even if we’re not aware of it, the shame.

More: Yes, you can have sex while you're on your period

While menstruation continues to be stigmatized, so does choosing not to menstruate. In short, whatever we decided to do in regard to our periods, and by extension our bodies, is judged, so ultimately, we have to do what’s right for us. And while we’re at it, let’s talk about periods. A lot.

By Chanel Dubofsky

Originally published on HelloFlo.

Look, it’s going to happen. It’s best we prepare together. If all the wizened grandmas we run into at the store are any indication (and I think they are), this is going to happen sooner than we like. It goes so fast, they say as we remind our toddler for the 15th time not to pick their nose. Ugh, but yes, I’m sure she is right. Now that the child has pulled something out of their nose, it does seem like it happened too fast. I don’t have a tissue and am utterly unprepared for the treasure. Is that booger an allegory for our children growing up? Likely it is not. I can’t even make that sort of stretch.

More: Homework burning parties: Yay or nay?

From my own experience, this outgrowing you thing is going to start to happen right around the time your kid starts developing a great personality. All that work you put into shaping that winning personality? It’s going to be handed over on a silver platter to his or her Johnny-come-lately “friend.” 

You’ll know when the personality is starting to take off because they stop parroting you all the time. That isn’t to say that parroting you wasn’t rife with great material. (Let’s be honest; we’ve seen the meme "97 percent of their awesomeness came from you.") 

But never mind that. This is a list of the subtle changes to look out for when your child starts to get a little too big for their britches. And by “too big for the their britches,” I mean ready to cut the cord, too cool for school, free falling, spreading their wings to fly or opening milk cartons on their own.

1. How old do you think I am?

We have all lived the cuteness that is asking your child how old they think you are. You know they are ready for a little more space when you ask them and you are met with an answer that is a little too real. They no longer give cutesy answers like 1,000 years old or 14. Instead, they give your real age. In worst-case scenarios, they give an age younger than your age and wrinkle their nose at the idea that someone could live long enough to reach that age. When this happens, you understand they have reached the time of life when they need to back away. They need to find friends their own age who they can’t insult in such a manner.

More: 15 ways being a mom is like being Claire Underwood

2. Where you at?

When your kids ask you where you are going, they no longer try to convince you to take them with. They start to ask in order to figure out how much time they will have to be away from you (Ugh, quit cramping their style.) Their questions even have a twinge of dubiousness in them. Maybe it’s your imagination, but are they questioning that anyone wants to spend time with you on purpose? Not cool kids, not cool. Your mom happens to be the life of the PTA party! Ain’t no party like a PTA party, ‘cause a PTA party don’t stop!

3. Did you get the memo?

When you dress sort of alike and announce, “Twinsies,” it no longer results in a high-five and a smile. It now evokes an immediate retreat. The next time you see them, they will have a different outfit on. Likely, they even changed their socks just in case. Little do they know you wear your Christmas socks all year round. What they had thought to be a brilliant reflection of their individuality and nonconforming to norms has placed them right back in Twin Town. Population: 2. Now that you have gotten wise, you will not announce it. You will hold this close to your heart and cherish it.

4. Hearing it through the grapevine

They start spilling their secrets to the younger sibling instead of you. Granted, you still hear the secrets because younger sisters and brothers are never to be trusted. Still, it hurts to be relegated to a secondhand keeper of secrets. A voyeur into the world you helped create. There, there. Here is my hanky (I learned to carry it after the Granny Store Incident of 2016.) Keep it as long as you need. It’s not new. It’s seen some things. As far as hearing the secrets, try not to worry. You will be first again in time.

More: Is it ever OK to read your kids' texts?

5. Hands off the merchandise

They don’t want you to walk them up to school or really walk with them at all anymore. Did you try all year to get him/her to go onto the playground or into the classroom all by him-/herself so you didn’t have to leave the car? Yes. Does it still make you tear up every morning as he/she trucks up there confidently, bag slung over one shoulder like a “cool kid”? You don’t have to answer that, and you still have the hanky if you need it again.

Parenthood: It’s like winning while you are losing.

Every bride dreams of the picture-perfect big day. But for every dream wedding, there's a nightmare. From wasted guests to philandering grooms, we gathered some of the wildest wedding horror stories from women across the U.S. And you thought your in-laws were bad!

M.I.L. from hell

“My wedding is in a week and a half, and the last several months my mother-in-law-to-be can't stop comparing everything to my fiancé’s first wedding with his ex-wife! She insisted I get fake flowers because that is what the ex used, that I get my cake from this bakery because it's what the ex used, that the ex would never send out just one wedding invitation per guest. It's been infuriating!” — Stephanie, 29, Salt Lake City, Utah

Control-freak bridezilla

“I was asked to be a bridesmaid by my boyfriend’s best friend's fiancé. The bride merely asked me to be a 'filler' — she needed one more woman to even out the parties and she was very particular about the weight of her bridesmaids. I couldn’t go more than two days in the entire year before the wedding without hearing from the bride. If we didn’t respond to her immediately, it was followed by a text and then a call! She got into a fight with the church because of the lighting, yelled at the florist because the flowers didn’t match the dresses and she even fired one of the bridesmaids for putting on too much weight before the wedding! She got her picture-perfect wedding, all right, but I can’t imagine what kind of marriage it will be.” — Gabby, 24, Savannah, Georgia

Wedding waste case

“My career as a hair and makeup artist has given me a lot of crazy wedding horror stories. Once, a friend of a friend asked me to travel two hours to a location. I arrived and everyone was pretty stressed out. I began working on the bridesmaids, who started acting stranger and stranger. Trying to get those girls ready was like wrangling cats! Apparently, one of them had stolen a bottle of liquor from the bar and they were all getting trashed. One of the bridesmaids stunk up the bathroom so bad. Lucky for me, the wedding was postponed by two hours because the father of the bride put on the wrong suit and someone forgot grandma at home! When all was said and done, I didn't even get a tip." — Chisti, 34, Phoenix, Arizona

More: 6 Amazing Real Wedding Meet-Cutes

Cold feet

“I'm a baker and once had a groom cancel on his bride the week before the wedding. His parents essentially didn't want their son marrying this girl and adamantly refused to pay any of the vendors, even after they were already booked. All the vendors lost out on final payments as both parents just stopped returning big calls and emails. Shameful.” — Karen, Owner, Sweet Lulu's Bakery in Charleston, South Carolina

Post-vows cheating

“I was a guest at a friend’s wedding, whose groom I'd only met once before the wedding. It only took one meeting to know that it would be really hard for him to stay committed to any woman. Towards the end of the reception and dozens of drinks later, the groom was missing. He was later found by a bridesmaid in the bathroom getting it on with another female guest! Apparently, he had cheated on my friend a few times, but we only found out after she decided to file for divorce — a mere month after their wedding day.” — Chesla, 41, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Wardrobe malfunction

“I'm a wedding planner, and I received a distressed phone call from one of my brides on her big day, moments before she was to leave for her ceremony. One of the bridesmaid's custom gown had completely ripped open at the zipper, exposing all of her delicate bits. Fortunately, a member of the bride's family was a seamstress and was able to sew the bridesmaid into the dress faster than the time it took for the dress shop owner to arrive on-site. The bridesmaid was able to walk down the aisle with the rest of the girls and no one was the wiser.” — Annmarie, 31, Event and Wedding Planner, Toronto, Canada

Tornado warning

“I was a bridesmaid in a friend’s wedding, which took place in Kansas City in May — peak tornado season in the Midwest. The day of the wedding was ripe for storms and forecasters had our area in a tornado watch zone all day. About an hour before the wedding started, tornado sirens started blaring! The bridal party had to take shelter underground in her house for nearly an hour. We lost power and there was no cell service, so we couldn’t call the groom or anyone to figure out what was going on. Luckily, the tornado touched down outside of town and the wedding went on about three hours later.” — Tina, 38, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

More: 19 Expert-Approved Wedding Gifts Every Couple Will Love

Unexpected guests

“The plans for my wedding day were to meet at the church at 2:30 p.m., get my makeup done and prepare for a 5 p.m. wedding. Instead, at 9 a.m., the doorbell rang and there were 12 members of the groom’s family expecting to be fed and entertained. What? My fiancé and I lived together and he forgot to tell me that the custom in his country is to show up at the groom’s house first thing and spend the day bonding and partying before heading to the church caravan-style! More and more people kept arriving until there were 40 people sitting in the backyard — with only eight chairs. His family rooted through my cupboards and cooked food for themselves and the guests cleared out the pantry, refrigerator and freezer!” — Mindy, 29, Los Angeles, California

TV-worthy drama

“A college friend had her wedding recorded for the TV show A Wedding Story, and the behind-the-scenes filming created an absolute nightmare. The church's altar was crowded with production equipment, leaving little room for the clergy or wedding party. The pastor opened the ceremony by stating that while he was there to marry the bride and groom, he would much rather have been marrying off the television production crew. Following the ceremony, the crew became the center of attention, blocking guests to capture footage of the bride and groom and bridal party. Post-reception antics were the worst part of the evening, as a member of the production crew began pursuing one of the bridesmaids who was in attendance with her boyfriend. A scuffle ensued between the two men outside the reception venue, resulting in a punch thrown and a celebration scarred.” — Beth Ann, 40s, Pennsylvania

If you're obsessed with things like souffles, organic farming and all things home design, you're gonna want to go ahead and mark your calendar for August 7, 2017 — the date that a Martha Stewart musical by Ryan Raftery opens at Joe's Pub in New York City.

The Rise and Fall (and Rise) of Martha Stewart will, as the name implies, tell the life story of the lifestyle icon, exploring her humble upbringing in small-town New Jersey to her stint in federal prison and beyond.

More: Gordon Ramsay Gets Spicy & Shades Fellow Famous Chef Martha Stewart

The production rounds out Raftery's "Titans of Media" trilogy, which includes smash hit musicals about sartorial arbiter Anna Wintour and TV host-slash-producer Andy Cohen.

“What other titan — Andy is a very powerful guy, Anna Wintour is a very powerful woman — is on her level that I could do a show about?” Raftery told The Cut. “It really didn’t take long to land on America’s favorite purveyor of perfectionism.”

Amen to that, eh? In case you weren't already pouring yourself a nice glass of rosé in celebration of the momentous news, details about the musical's direction should get you sufficiently jazzed.

More: Can Tori Spelling Become the New Martha Stewart?

To set the scene a bit, picture Stewart (played by Raftery) tearfully bidding her chickens adieu on the day she must report to prison. That's how the musical starts, moving then into such notable milestones as her BFF status with Snoop Dogg and, naturally, her post-incarceration comeback.

Wondering what sort of music you can expect from this sure-to-be magical musical? According to the production description, it will be intercut with 12 parody adaptations of music by popular — and varied — artists like Beyonce, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Adele, Bruno Mars and Metallica.

More: Martha Stewart Is a Total Cougar

Since, like us, you're probably already planning your girls' trip, grab a pencil and jot this down: August 7, 22 & 28, and September 11 & 12. Those are the dates you can catch The Rise and Fall (and Rise) of Martha Stewart at Joe's Pub.

Between Kim's robbery at gunpoint, the implosion of Kourtney's relationship with Scott Disick and the pointed tell-all penned by Caitlyn Jenner, it hasn't exactly been an easy year for the Kardashians. But according to Kim, things could be looking up soon — the reality star is confident she and step-mom Caitlyn will end their recent rift any day now.

More: Kardashians Celebrate North West's 4th Birthday With the Cutest Photos

Although Kim has long enjoyed a close relationship with Jenner, particularly when Jenner first shared her decision to transition, the once-chummy pair have been decidedly icy to each other since Jenner released a tell-all memoir that made Kim's mom, Kris, look bad.

Ina teaser clip for the June 20 episode of The View, Kim admits to being shocked by Jenner's behavior, explaining that her problem with the memoir was Jenner "putting some things out there that weren't true or didn't really make sense or were hurtful... when I feel like at the end of the day, my mom and Caitlyn had a 25-year relationship and you have to have some respect for it."

More: In Typical Kim Kardashian Fashion, Kim's Manchester Post Started a Huge Debate

Kim noted that she didn't want to discredit Caitlyn's feelings or perceived experience, but she personally felt that the entire family witnessed some things that contradicted Jenner's account. "It was just a little bit surprising to me," she said.

However, Kim remains convinced that things will all be resolved soon. "We're not that kind of family," she said.. "We're just taking a breather. We'll get it together. We have siblings. It'll work out."

You know what they say about Texas — everything is bigger there.The boots, the hair and, judging by ET's exclusive new first look at the next installment of The Real Housewives of Dallas, the drama too.

In the clip, Stephanie Hollman is doing her best to host a a Halloween party when LeeAnne Locken makes her grand debut dressed up in a distinctively split personality costume, with one side of her face painted as an angel and the other a devil.

More: LeeAnne Locken's Makeup on RHOD Is Not the Problem

At most costume parties, they likely wouldn't throw up any red flags. However, word quickly begins to circulate that this particular ensembles is a pointed stab at the party's host.

"LeeAnne is supposedly telling people she's you. She's two-faced. In my house. I think I might throw her out," Stephanie's husband Travis tells her.

Instead of giving her frenemy the boot, though, Stephanie says she isn't going to give LeeAnne the reaction she wants. Rather, she is going to try to talk things out as adults. Unfortunately, the tense convo takes places in front of fellow 'wives Brandi Redmond and Cary Deuber as well as Season 1 star Tiffany Hendra.

More: Maybe LeeAnne Locken Isn't the Evil Queen of RHOD That Fans Thought She Was

Awk-ward!

The circle of friends manages to remain neutral, but it seems unlikely the cast will avoid the drama as it continues to unravel throughout the season. When confronted, LeeAnne jumps on the defensive, claiming, "I still have my, you know, issues directly with you. I feel like there's a lot of things that you've done that confuse me... I just want you to say it to my face. 'LeeAnne, you're a bad person.'"

Stephanie keeps her composure, responding, "You make me nervous, because I'm afraid of a friendship with you. I'm scared that it will hurt me."

At that point, the rest of the group wisely decides the feuding duo should perhaps move their conversation to a more private area of the party before hashing out their differences any further.

More: RHOD Brandi Redmond's Kids Don't Deserve to Pay for Her Mistakes

Considering this is just one incident representing only a few minutes of the second season, we can only imagine what other dramatic cattiness is in store when The Real Housewives of Dallas returns to Bravo sometime later this year.

June is national Adopt-a-Cat Month — and if you went and added a new kitty (or two) to your family, congrats! Being a cat parent is one of the greatest (albeit craziest) experiences you could ever have, and having your furry friend around will enrich your life in so many ways. But here's the hard part: Finding a name that perfectly fits your new fur baby.

Yes, there's something to be said for old standards like Tiger and Felix, but your new kitty is deserving of a unique name that reflects both their and your personality — so we came up with 100 out-of-the-box names for you to choose from.

Unique cat names inspired by fashion

Hey, they call it a catwalk for a reason, right? Naming your kitty after one of these fabulous fashionistas may not catapult you to the top of the best-dressed list, but it's a start.

Boys

• Armani
• Sketchers
• Yves
• Valentino
• Hugo Boss

Girls

• Fendi
• Bebe
• Tallulah
• Twiggy
• Chanel

More: The Complete Guide to Your Cat's Body Language

Unique cat names inspired by places

If you opted for an exotic breed or just love to travel, one of these inspiring locales can give your sweetie the optimal handle.

Boys

• Cupertino
• Kathmandu
• Machu Picchu
• Vegas
• Kilimanjaro

Girls

• Egypt
• Bora Bora
• Juneau
• Saskatchewan
• Fjord

Unique cat names inspired by drinks

If heaven to you is a cocktail in your hand and your kitty on your lap, one of these booze-inspired names will appeal to you.

Boys

• Vesper
• Muscat
• Jager
• Hennessy
• Schnapps

Girls

• SoCo
• Azunia
• Mai Tai
• Sake
• Campari

Unique cat names inspired by historical figures

If the History Channel is your go-to boob-tube getaway, you'll find your new kitten's sobriquet in this list.

Boys

• Charlemagne
• Euripides
• Hannibal
• Buster Keaton
• Amadeus

Girls

• Amelia
• Godiva
• Sacagawea
• Guinevere
• Frida

Unique cat names inspired by celebrities

Maybe you can't walk the red carpet to get your stargazing in, but if you name your cat after one of these high-profile peeps, you'll feel like they're sitting right next to you (purring).

Boys

• Timberlake
• Atticus
• Hemsworth
• Clooney
• Snipes

Girls

• Adele
• Gyllenhaal
• Saldana
• Zappa
• Sienna

More: 9 Reasons Adopting a Cat Is the Absolute Best

Unique cat names inspired by mythology

Part of the charm of a feline companion is the ever-present mysticism in their eyes. Give them a name that hearkens back to their mythological powers.

Boys

• Ajax
• Pollux
• Ra
• Castor
• Gawain

Girls

• Artemis
• Nyx or Styx
• Brynhildr
• Demeter
• Branwen

Unique cat names inspired by writers

If literary nostalgia is more your thing, get bookish with one of these names inspired by our favorite authors.

Boys

• Vonnegut
• Rudyard Kipling
• Nietzsche
• Hobbes
• Lord Byron

Girls

• Ayn
• Angelou
• Huxley
• Alcott
• Zora

Unique cat names inspired by fictional characters

You know your cat's so special she's too good to be true. Keep the fictional theme going with one of these names inspired by the imagination of popular storytellers.

Boys

• Poirot
• Gatsby
• Legolas
• Dexter
• Keyser Söze

Girls

• Katniss
• Princess Peach
• Griselda
• Coralline
• Tuppence

Unique cat names inspired by products

Your cat's name doesn't have to be all about the people. Appropriate something a little more materialistic for an adorable way to call your kitty.

Boys

• Tabasco
• Snickers
• Keurig
• Denon
• Cadbury

Girls

• Dyson
• Kindle
• Fiskars
• Sephora
• Skittles

Unique cat names inspired by tech

Nerd up your new addition with a name inspired by the digital frontier.

Boys

• Gigo
• Wysiwyg
• Django
• Ping
• Tux

Girls

• Finder
• Socket
• Petabyte
• Giffy
• Gem

To swallow or not to swallow? That has always been the question. Yes, swallowing is an act that some of us avoid like the plague — but it turns out that we should probably get our gag reflexes in check. That's right, consuming semen really does have some serious health benefits that goes far beyond a protein shake.

What we're trying to say is, it might officially be time to just start doing it.

1. Semen is a natural anti-depressant

I know sex in general can put a smile back on my face, but I never thought it had anything to do with semen. According to a study conducted on 293 female college students at the State University of New York in Albany, exposure to semen can lower symptoms of depression. The study compared female students who were having sex with condoms versus those who were having sex without, and found that the latter group overall showed fewer signs of depression.

More: My Male Partner Won’t Agree to a Sperm Analysis — Now What?

According to the study's author, "These data are consistent with the possibility that semen may antagonize depressive symptoms, and evidence which shows that the vagina absorbs a number of components of semen that can be detected in the bloodstream within a few hours of administration." Basically, women absorb semen quickly, and thus its benefits can be easily detected in the bloodstream.

But don't go having unprotected sex because of this. I will state the obvious: There are still such things as STDs and you can still get pregnant despite this health benefit.

2. It helps you sleep better

Yes, sure, you're usually worn out after sex, but that may not be why you sleep so well that night. Semen actually contains melatonin which is a chemical that induces sleep and relaxation. Whether you ingest it, or receive it through intercourse, it will enter your bloodstream and help you doze off better than most over-the-counter sleep aids.

3. A multivitamin in each ejaculation

One teaspoon of semen contains over 200 proteins and several helpful vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, calcium, chlorine, citric acid, fructose, lactic acid, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, vitamin B12 and zinc. While amounts of each vitamin vary with age and relative health of the obliging male, there is usually a significant amount of zinc present (about 3 percent of US RDA), which is an antioxidant that helps slow down the aging process. So besides exercise, sex (sans condom) gives you a healthy dose of something good.

Next Up: Oral sex can lower your blood pressure

Originally published April 2015. Updated June 2017.

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4. Oral sex can lower your blood pressure

A recent study suggests that swallowing semen on a regular basis can lower your blood pressure. Women who swallow their male mate's sperm during oral sex often have a much lower risk of getting preeclampsia — a complication during pregnancy that results in super-high blood pressure. So semen is helpful in making and birthing a baby.

5. It lowers the risk of prostate cancer (when expelled)

So this last one's not so much a health benefit of semen, but rather the act of semen is released. The Journal of the American Medical Association reported that "high ejaculation frequency was related to decreased risk of total prostate cancer." This means that whether you do it alone or with a friend, if you're ejaculating regularly, you're lowering your chances of getting prostate cancer later in life. Suddenly the term "release your demons" takes on new meaning.

More: 8 Things to Know About the Smartphone Sperm-Tester

6. It could be the next all-natural fire extinguisher

You read that right. Research that's being conducted at the Polytechnic University of Turin suggests that the DNA in semen could be used to create flame-retardant materials. Right now, they're looking specifically at DNA from herring sperm cells and finding that it converts to a "ceramic-like material when exposed to extreme heat."

The science behind it is a little intense, but simply put, the components found in the DNA could be an environmentally friendly way to protect fabric from flame. While this sounds awesome, I wouldn't go attempting the human fire extinguisher just yet.

Taking some time off work to go traveling is always exciting — and not just for humans. If your dog is like mine, your dog needs adventure, new smells and things to pee on and frankly just loves being with you as much as possible. (If coming along isn’t medically viable, check out some tips for boarding your dog.)

I’ve taken some great road trips with the girls (LizatheMisfitDog and FionatheTacoDog) and learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t. (Read — don't try to drive on a sunny 95-degree day when your AC has gone out; do make sure to plan frequent pee breaks for all involved.) But a lot of what goes into a successful trip has to do with the prep ahead of time.

Before hitting the open road this summer, zoom through our PetCoach expert’s checklist of what you’ll need to bring along to keep your dog both happy and safe.

1. Talk to your dog’s veterinarian about your road trip

Before hitting the highway, pile into the car and head to your vet’s office for a regular checkup. Let your veterinarian know the areas where you’ll be traveling before you go — there may be diseases and dangers in that area that aren’t as prevalent in your home town. For example, any snow birds heading to the Northeast may want to ask their veterinarian about getting their dog the Lyme disease vaccine or learn the signs and symptoms of tick paralysis. Likewise, those heading South should take heartworm preventatives even more seriously. (Check out other outdoor diseases your dog is at risk of contracting during summer fun.)

2. Get a copy of your dog’s medical records

You’ll also want to make sure you have a recent copy of your dog’s medical records in case an emergency comes up and you have to visit an unfamiliar vet or medical facility. Having your dog’s medical history easily accessible can be a lifesaver.

3. Know the dog-in-car laws and think: Safety first

We’ve all seen it. The person who is simultaneously driving and talking on the phone with their dog half on their lap and half out the window.

A lot of people give their dogs free rein in the car when making a quick trip to the gas station, but letting your dog sit on your lap may be more than unsafe — it may be illegal. Certain distracted-driving laws allow states to charge pet-holding drivers and others explicitly forbid dogs being transported in pickup truck beds without proper restraints. Other states actively encourage but don’t enforce doggy seat belts for general safety. Check out the laws in the states you plan to visit and remember that proper doggy restraint can be a lifesaver for your pup if you were in an accident.

4. Check what kind of coverage, if any, your car insurance provides for your pooch

Speaking of accidents, it’s better to know ahead of time what will happen if your dog gets injured during your road trip. Many car insurance plans now cover dogs traveling in the car, but to what degree and under what circumstances can vary a lot. Be prepared before you hit the highway and give your insurance agent a quick call to discuss your plan — and find out whether it’s road-tripping Rover-ready.

5. Know the signs of heatstroke & how to stay cool

The heat is no joke. While most dog moms know never to leave their dog in a hot car, any dog can be at risk of heat exhaustion and stroke at plenty of other points on your trip. Learn the signs of heatstroke, like increased panting and excessive drooling.

If you missed last week’s article on dog sweat, check it out for some tips on how to keep your doggie cool this summer.

6. Always, always, always use a leash

Pack a few different leash styles and sizes for your trip. My personal favorites include a 15-foot training-style leash for picnics, a lasso-style leash in case we encounter a loose dog and a 4-foot leash for basic walks.

Remember: No matter how Herculean your dog’s recall, anytime you get out of the car, put your dog on a leash. Your road trip will bring you to lots of new places with new sights, smells and dangers that your dog doesn’t know. Keep Rover alive. Keep him on a leash.

Double-check the collar has up-to-date tags too, just in case.

7. Pack your dog a suitcase

OK, this doesn’t have to be big, but I do know some dog-loving moms who will carry more on their road trips for their Boston terriers than they do for themselves. Think of it this way. If you have to bring it for yourself, chances are your dog has its version too. You have your food and snacks, you bring doggie’s food and snacks. You have your water, you’ll need Rover’s water. You bring your medication, you’ll need his medication.

What you may not have thought of, though, might include travel bowls for food and water, a travel bed and some toys that can keep your dog entertained on the road. If your dog’s up for it, you might even consider some Doggles.

8. Locate pet-friendly hotels before you hit the road

This can be a biggie. Gone are the days of sneaking your pup into not-so-friendly hotels because none accept pets. (Which, of course, I’ve never done…) Today, there are lots of hotels and chains that will welcome you and your dog. Red Roof Inns, for example, make a special point of being pet-friendly and have been my harbor in a few storms. Just be sure to call ahead to confirm whether the hotel policy allows pets and to ask about any additional fees or policies that apply.

Traveling can be a nightmare or it can be a breeze. The more you prepare, the more at ease everyone will be. Start making arrangements early and get ahead of the stress to make your road-trip with Rover a trip to remember for all the right reasons!

Have a question about road-tripping with your dog? Ask the experts at PetCoach below.

I remember 4th of July the year I was 5 years old very vividly. I had a 14-year-old uncle who loved him some fireworks and, long story short, our day ended with a roof fire, a firetruck and some EMTs. Memorable? Totally. But not exactly what childhood dreams and wishes are made of.

Look, 4th of July fireworks are a totally nostalgic part of one of the best holidays — but when there are kids involved, sometimes it's best to keep everyone entertained without any Whistling Willies or Piccolo Petes.

We've got plenty of other wholesome ideas to keep the whole family occupied that are so fun, no one will even miss the sparklers. We'll just leave the big fireworks to the professionals.

More: 10 Affordable Destinations That Are Perfect for 4th of July

From crafts to games to food and more, check out our list.

Fourth of July crafts

In the days leading up to Fourth of July, get crafty with your kids. These Fourth of July crafts are easy to make and plenty of fun. If you are hosting a Fourth of July get-together, you can also set up a craft table and have all the kids make crafts during the party.

Fourth of July games

Invite all your neighbors and friends over to spend the afternoon having fun in the sun before the fireworks begin. From water balloon dodgeball to Pin the Hat on Uncle Sam, all the kids (and adults too) will love these Fourth of July party games.

Originally published June 2012. Updated June 2017.

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Fourth of July food

From burgers to Popsicles and everything in between, we have the scoop on Fourth of July food for kids. Whether you are spending Fourth of July with only your family or you are hosting a big block party, these Fourth of July recipes are just what you need.

More: Kids Will Love Making These Patriotic Crafts

Learn about Fourth of July

The holiday provides the perfect opportunity to teach your kids about American history without taking out the fun. You can still have a barbecue or a picnic with your family, but you should also make sure that your kids know what Independence Day is really all about. Brush up on your history and teach your kids about Fourth of July.

More Fourth of July fun

Check out these Fourth of July printables, coloring pages and word search puzzles. Play Fourth of July trivia with older kids. Quiz them about the original 13 colonies, the Declaration of Independence and symbols associated with the United States — from the flag or the Liberty Bell to Uncle Sam and the Statue of Liberty.

Can't sleep? Popping a pill may knock you out for the night, but you may pay for it in the morning with grogginess and feeling hungover — not the ideal way to start the day. We asked health and nutrition experts for a few natural remedies that will help us get better sleep at night, and some of these might surprise you.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an alkaline earth metal that is necessary element for human nutrition. It's so essential that if you don't get enough, it may be difficult to get a good night's sleep. In fact, certified holistic nutritionist Meg Hagar usually recommends magnesium first if her clients are having trouble sleeping.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone our brain secretes, and it helps with — you guessed it — sleep. It's sold over the counter in tablets, and many people swear by it for sleep help.

"When our natural sleep rhythms get disturbed (such as via jet lag or an altered schedule of staying up too late), melatonin can be used to get us back on track," said Drs. Arielle Levitan and Romy Block, co-founders of Vous Vitamin LLC and authors of The Vitamin Solution: Two Doctors Clear the Confusion About Vitamins and Your Health. "Taking this natural supplement — make sure to get a good reputable brand — about 30 minutes before bed helps to naturally reset your body’s clock so you essentially relearn when bedtime should be."

More: Finally! Some sleep advice we can really get on board with

Iron

Another necessary element our bodies rely upon is iron. Levitan and Block say that iron deficiency not only makes you feel tired, but it can lead to restless leg syndrome. Get your iron levels checked, and if you're deficient, take supplements.

Tryptophan

"It's common knowledge that Thanksgiving can make anyone nap-ready," said Gabriel Smith, health and wellness expert for Mattress Firm. "This is due to high levels of tryptophan. Some recommended food sources include goat's milk kefir, bananas, almonds and other nuts, honey, whole-grain bread, seeds, turkey, cranberries, cherry juice; chamomile, passion flower and valerian tea."

Your bedroom

Yes, your bedroom may be a huge factor in your sleep problems. Never fear, though — you can fix this. Your bedroom should be cool, dark and quiet, reserved for relaxation and sleep. Dr. Michael Carlston, author of Better Than Medicines — The Ten Essential Health Habits, said we should keep in mind that sleep is a habit, and if you don't fall asleep within 15 minutes or so, leave the bedroom and try again later. Positive association with your bed (as opposed to flopping around in the sheets for a couple of hours) will improve your sleep habits and keep you on the road to better sleep.

Noise

Noise can be a huge distraction to your sleeping brain, but you can use noise to benefit your slumber. Whether your sleeping cavern is dead silent or you can hear outside noises, you might consider running a fan or even investing in a white noise machine to keep sudden noises from disturbing your rest.

Avoid caffeine & alcohol

Yes, caffeine and alcohol can be a totally reasonable choice. But the closer the clock creeps to bedtime, the less reasonable a choice they may be. "Both caffeine and alcohol can adversely affect your sleep, even if consumed six hours before bedtime," says Rebecca Lee, a registered nurse and founder of Remedies For Me. "If you want to sleep soundly through the night, don’t drink caffeine after 5 p.m. and limit yourself to one small alcoholic beverage."

More: Sleeping in weird places may just be the Japanese secret to everything

Essential oils

Essential oils have a variety of uses, but one of their most natural uses is smelling the heck out of them. Sydney Ziverts, health and nutrition investigator for ConsumerSafety.org, said that lavender oil in particular has calming and soothing effects and can help you go to sleep.

Seek help

Sometimes, nothing we do can give us that quality sleep we're craving, Jeffrey M. Ellenbogen, a physician and sleep expert at Johns Hopkins University and director of the Sound Sleep Project noted. In fact, he said that despite being more than halfway through 2017, we still don’t have a great sleep remedy to offer the everyday person wishing to optimize their sleep experience.

"The simple answer for this is that sleep is, well, complicated," he explained. "It’s asking an awful lot of a molecule — natural or synthetic — to assist our brains in maximizing the twists and turns of the unconscious state of sleep. If you struggle week after week with sleep problems, the best thing to do is discuss them with your doctor rather than experiment on your own."

Oh my God,” you say. “Antiaging hair products? Just stop. STOP.” Listen, we know. We know how stupidly insane all of this antiaging stuff has gotten, how the entire beauty world seems obsessed with stopping gravity and life’s natural cycle through antiaging neck creams, wrinkle-reducing blushes and line-plumping lip products. But before you dis the antiaging hair category, trust us when we say that these products really do work — just not in the same way as your retinols.

More: Meet Retinol Oil: The Coolest Antiaging Product That Actually Works

Because no, antiaging hair products won’t reduce the nonexistent wrinkles in your hair shaft or give you the lush hair that you had as a toddler, but they will keep your hair from turning dry, frizzy, wired and faded as you age, which is all you can really hope for when dealing with something that’s already, you know, dead. Because these shampoos, conditioners, serums, mists and hair sprays are all specifically formulated to shield your hair from damage using powerful antioxidants, UV shields and color-preservers, all of which will leave you protected from turning into the Crypt Keeper. Scroll through to see our favorite antiagers, below, and add in a few to your current rotation tomorrow. Your hair in 20 years will thank you.

Phyto Plage Protective Sun Veil

Phyto Plage Protective Sun Veil (Phyto, $30)

Nexxus City Shield DD Créme

Nexxus City Shield DD Créme (Nexxus, $19.99)

L'Oréal Professionnel Série Expert Vitamino Color A-OX Shampoo

L'Oréal Professionnel Série Expert Vitamino Color A-OX Shampoo (Ulta, $33.50)

Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Working Hair Spray

Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Working Hair Spray (Ulta, $21)

Évolis Reverse Activator

Évolis Reverse Activator (Évolis, $65)

Bare Republic UV Protecting 5-in-1 Mist

Bare Republic UV Protecting 5-in-1 Mist (Bare Republic, $11.99)

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore

Julien Farel Vitamin Restore (Julien Farel, $39)

Originally posted on StyleCaster.