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Meghan Markle & Prince Harry Are Going to Be Roomies & You Know What That Means

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Rumors have been swirling for a while (mostly unsubstantiated, to be candid) but now it feels like we can finally confirm said rumors that Meghan Markle really might be moving in with Prince Harry — and soon. As you may recall, the young lovebirds recently met with Prince Harry's dear old grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, for a cozy meeting over some afternoon tea. While we may not know the details of that meeting, it's certainly an encouraging sign, right? Something big has to be happening between Markle and the prince.

More: Are These Hollywood Couples Going to Get Engaged Soon?

According to Entertainment Tonight, big things are very, very possibly in motion. When consulting with royals expert Katie Nicholl, it was revealed that Markle and Harry moving in together could be the final sign to us all that things are serious — like, marriage-level serious. But first, Markle is going to have to change her lifestyle around significantly, beginning with a (yet-to-be-confirmed) exit from Suits and a move to the UK.

"I am told by my sources that Meghan is likely to be moving to London as soon as November. She's not signing up for another series of Suits. She's planning to leave Canada and make London her new, permanent home."

Meghan Markle Prince Harry Invictus Games
Image: Karwai Tang/Getty Images

Of course, like any couple that's moving in together, there's a lot of things to consider; the logistics for this couple moving in together, though, are exponentially more complicated. Do they live in London, close to family and in the hustle and bustle of one of the world's major cities? Or do they settle in the country, away from prying eyes and where there's a bit of calm? Nicholl has some insight on this too.

More: Meghan Markle & Prince Harry Had a Secret Tea Party With the Queen

"There's a lot of talk about where exactly they’ll live. Currently Prince Harry lives at Nottingham Cottage which is a three-bedroom, small cottage in the [Kensington Palace] grounds. I am told that she will be moving into Kensington Palace -- in fact, she already keeps a wardrobe of clothes at Harry's house over in Kensington Palace and she's going to be spending all of her time over here from now on," she told ET.

The progress of Markle and Harry's relationship has been watched very closely in recent months and with the pair moving in together, there's no reason to think that that attention will die down anytime soon. In fact, it's safe to say that many of us are expecting a proposal any day now. And why wouldn't we? The couple were seen together having a grand old time at the Invictus Games in Markle's home city of Toronto and in a recent interview Vanity Fair, Markle couldn't help but make it plain how in love they are with one another, not to mention the fact they have been a dedicated and loving couple for nearly a year now.

More: Prince Harry Is Already Treating Meghan Markle Like His Princess

Moving in together is a serious move for any couple, but for a Markle and Harry, this feels like just another step closer to the altar.


Your Emotions Can Indeed Affect Your Bowels

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Mother Nature has its own natural laxative — and I'm not talking about shredded carrots or prunes. I'm talking about anxiety, fear or excitement. If you have certain triggers or places that make you go to the bathroom or keep you blocked up, you are not alone. And there is a very reasonable explanation.

Dr. Jennifer Stagg, a biochemist-turned-naturopathic physician and author of the book Unzip Your Genes, tells SheKnows that stimulation of the nervous system or stress response can affect the bowel in two ways. "Adrenaline and CRF (corticotropin releasing factor) can stimulate contractions of the bowel leading to increased motility and the need to go to the bathroom."

MoreWhy the "Mad Pooper" May Not Be Able to Hold It

It seems as though our emotions are linked with our digestive system — which makes sense. We all know feelings can change our facial expressions and body language. Feeling nervous, scared or anxious can make our hearts pound and our palms sweat. It only seems natural they affect the rest of our bodies. We've all gone through a really stressful time and had a burning stomach or indigestion as a side effect or been upset and couldn’t eat. It seems obvious how we feel on the inside is tied to bodily functions.

Stagg says even though we may feel the urge to go to the bathroom as soon as we have a certain feeling, the link between our brains, emotions and the gut is actually very complex.

Sometimes our can emotions trigger diarrhea, "while other times constipation is the result. This can be explained by the CRF signaling system, there are many different CRF compounds and receptors which lead to varying effects on the bowel," she says.

MoreYou Should Be Pooping in This Position

And since our emotions are tightly related to digestive function and health, we also know our feelings, whether they are anxious feelings or happy, relaxed feelings, can impact our gut bacteria.

If your emotions are affecting your digestion and this starts to become an inconvenience and interfere with you going out and enjoying things in public, Stagg suggests guided relaxation, meditation, exercise, a healthy diet and a good quality of sleep.

MoreIf You're Constipated, You Need to Know About the "Poop Button"

However, if you experience the occasional bowel movement brought on by feelings of anxiety or excitement, you shouldn't worry — it affects more people than you know, and there is nothing wrong with you just because your favorite store makes you have to run to the loo as soon as you enter.

This Is Us Moments to Rewatch When You Need a Good Cry

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Sometimes you just need a good cry. It's cathartic, you know? Letting out all of those pent-up feelings provides a healthy emotional release. And what better way to get your tear ducts working overtime than by tuning into to NBC's This Is Us?

Of course, there will be moments outside of the one night a week the show airs you need to get all up in your feelings. But don't worry; we've got you covered. The next time you need a good cry, grab a box of Kleenex and rewatch the following moments from the tear-jerking family drama.

More: Did This Redditor Figure Out How Jack Dies on This Is Us?

1. The art of making lemonade

This Is Us 1

This Is Us 1

After telling Jack they'd lost the third baby, Dr. Katowsky lays a little life wisdom on the new dad about the time he lost a child. "I like to think that because of the child I lost — the path that he sent me on — that I have saved countless babies. I like to think that maybe one day, you'll be an old man like me talking a younger man's ear off explaining to him how you took the sourest lemon that life has to offer and turned it into something resembling lemonade," said Dr. K. "If you can do that, you'll still be taking three babies home from this hospital — just maybe not the way you planned." BRB, bawling my eyeballs out.

2. Grappling with loss

This Is Us Grappling with Loss

This Is Us Grappling with Loss

For any parent who has lost a child to miscarriage, this moment is so real it hurts. Learning to come to terms with the loss of a little one you never technically met? There's no easy or adept way to navigate those waters. Sometimes you just have to accept the pain and live in it for a little while like Jack and Rebecca do.

3. The magic shirt

This Is Us 2

This Is Us 2

Raise your hand if — upon watching this sweet clip — a) you want to go give the girls bullying young Kate a proper scolding, and b) you kind of wish Jack could adopt you.

More: Is Everyone Watching This Is Us Without Me?

4. The painting of life

This Is Us Painting of Life

This Is Us Painting of Life

Kevin doesn't always get meaty, emotional scenes, but he always shines in the ones he does have. Talking to his nieces about the art of living proves to be a prime-slash-poignant example. It pulls on the heartstrings, and it makes us think we seriously should have invested in Kleenex stock before this series started.

5. Differences

This Is Us Differences

This Is Us Differences

Whether you were a child who felt like the odd one out in your family or you are a parent trying to make sure your children understand the strength in their differences, this moment boasts universal resonance.

6. The father-son initiation

This Is Us Support Systems

This Is Us Support Systems

To help 9-year-old Randall feel like he has something of his own, Jack signs him up for a martial arts class. During the class, the dojo asks Jack to vow to "carry his son through life" and illustrate his commitment to doing so by doing push-ups with Randall on his back. Jack keeps doing the push-ups even after the dojo tells him to stop. And if that isn't tear-jerking enough, all of this is laced with snippets of William sobbing because Rebecca tells him he can't meet his son. Cue all the feels.

7. Duty calls

This Is Us Duty Calls

This Is Us Duty Calls

Aside from the great lemonade speech, little is known about Dr. K until this moment when we learn how he came to be the Pearsons' doctor. At his late wife's graveside, he chokes back tears, saying, "Baby, I don't know if I can keep doing this without you anymore, and I'm not really sure that I want to." Dr. K had a great love story too?! Now we all need a doctor... to stitch the shattered remnants of our hearts back together.

8. Kate's breakdown

This Is Us Kate's Breakdown

This Is Us Kate's Breakdown

Since the Pearson family came into our lives, it's been pretty clear that Kate has internalized a lot of pain. She was in desperate need of an emotional release, which is exactly what she got during this cathartic breakthrough at her weight-loss retreat.

More: 12 Things to Know About This Is Us' Chrissy Metz (& Why We Love Her So Much)

9. The renewal of the vows

This Is Us Vow Renewal

This Is Us Vow Renewal

Sitting on the bathroom floor, Jack and Rebecca have a vow-renewal ceremony that is just about as heartwarming as they come. Of course, knowing now that Jack dies far too early in their love story also makes the moment equally heartbreaking in retrospect.

10. What would Jack Pearson do?

This Is Us WWJPD

This Is Us WWJPD

They're brothers and they loved each other, but Kevin and Randall hadn't seen eye-to-eye pretty much since their teen years. Until, that is, the big night of Kevin's play premiere — when he finally realizes how much his brother truly needs him. Kevin showing up for Randall and holding him while he sobbed? Now that deserves a standing ovation.

11. Saying goodbyes

This Is Us Saying Goodbye

This Is Us Saying Goodbye

To be honest, we're still not ready to talk about this. #RIPWilliam

12. Beth's toast to William

This Is Us Beth's Toast

This Is Us Beth's Toast

Let's talk about Beth. She's the best, right? An amazing wife, mother, sister-in-law and, as we saw in her time with William, friend. They forged a bond that left her sad and angry when he died. But at his "fun-eral," she was able to give an impromptu eulogy that helped her make peace (and left us all in pieces).

More: Did Mandy Moore Just Instagram a This Is Us Season 2 Spoiler?

13. When Jack and Rebecca met

This Is Us Jack and Rebecca Met

This Is Us Jack and Rebecca Met

Knowing that Rebecca's love saved Jack once but couldn't save him in the end stains their love story with sadness. Or is that the residue of our collective sobs? We can't tell through the tears.

Billy Joel Welcomes Baby Daughter & Her Name Is Perfect

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Updated October 24, 2017, 7:30 a.m. ET: Wow, that was fast. Billy Joel's wife, Alexis Roderick Joel, gave birth to her second child — and Billy's third — this week in NYC. Yep, this week, just a few days after the Joels revealed that Roderick Joel was even pregnant. You sneaky celebrities, you.

The little gal is named Remy Anne Joel (which is a relief, because if they had named her Alexandra, we can only imagine the mix-ups that would have ensued between her, mom Alexis and half-sister Alexa). In this case, though, little Remy will undoubtedly grow up with strong feelings about the movie Ratatouille. Will she love it or hate it? Only time will tell.

Original story:

Billy Joel has a way about him, clearly. He and his wife, Alexis Roderick Joel, are expecting Baby No. 2 next month, the singer recently told the Belfast Telegraph.

Their first baby, Della Rose, is 2 years old. He also has an older daughter (with ex-wife Christie Brinkley), Alexa Ray Joel, 31. If you're thinking, "Wait; doesn't that make Alexa R. Joel the daughter just four years younger than Alexis R. Joel the wife?" you would be correct. Billy Joel, meanwhile, will turn 69 in the spring.

Joel has a pretty chill approach to fatherhood late (some would say very late) in life: He's just counting on another excellent sleeper. Joel told the publication that toddler Della Rose has a “pretty good” nap schedule right now. “She sleeps through the night... I hope the next one will,” he said. Good luck with that!

More: Spry Youngster Billy Joel & Girlfriend Alexis Roderick Expecting First Child

What does Joel do these days for fun? Sounds like he's a hands-on dad and loving it. "I hang out with her," the singer said, "and watch her little wheels spin. And she’s a hoot. She’s a funny kid. She loves to laugh. I like to make her laugh.” 

Joel said he's also hoping to take Della Rose with him when he plays in Dublin in summer 2018. “She is coming with me. She has Irish roots.’’

We can't wait to meet the new little Joel soon, and for both parents' sake, we hope that kid sleeps for the longest time.

This story was originally published on October 19, 2017 and was updated on October 24, 2017.

Chris Evans & Jenny Slate Are Teasing Us All With Their Flirty Tweets

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Updated Oct. 24, 7 a.m. PT: For anyone who was iffy about the nature of Jenny Slate and Chris Evans' relationship right now, we present this adorable tweet exchange as evidence:

Chris Evans and Jenny Slate joke on twitter 2

Chris Evans and Jenny Slate joke on twitter 2

Chris Evans and Jenny Slate joke on twitter 1

Chris Evans and Jenny Slate joke on twitter 1

This sweet exchange obviously has the chatter in the former couple's comments and replies to these tweets centered on whether they're back together. It isn't entirely outside the realm of possibility, but we're still not going to get our hopes up quite yet. They've been promising since day one to stay good friends, and they clearly still are. Whether they're more than that? Only they can let us know.

Original story:

We gotta stop letting Hollywood get our hopes up. Chris Evans and Jenny Slate, who broke up in February, have been hanging out again, which has of course prompted rumors that they're back together.

More: Chris Evans & Jenny Slate Share Sweet Embrace — I'm Not Crying, You're Crying

On Friday, they were spotted having dinner together in Atlanta by an onlooker who told Us Weekly they "seemed like a couple."

The insider continued, "[They were] laughing. He reached across and touched her arm a couple of times. They seemed like normal people on a date."

The following night, Evans and Slate joined Robert Downey Jr. and his wife, Susan Downey, for dinner at Better Half, where co-stars Evans and Downey posed with the chefs.

Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr have dinner together

Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr have dinner together

An onlooker said that night, Evans and Slate again "looked very much together."

More: Chris Evans Makes Sweet Statement About Jenny Slate, the World Cries

But are we really going to fall for this?

It would be so great if Evans and Slate did rekindle their romance. Nobody 'ships them harder than we do. They were amazing as a couple and we all want that back. However, they were very clear in their statements after their breakup that they still wanted to be friends.

"It was completely amicable and a mutual decision due to conflicting schedules," a source said right after their split. Both stars said nothing but good things about one another in the days that followed, and it was clear that even though their romantic relationship didn't work, they truly did intend to stay close friends.

More: Jenny Slate's Truth Bomb About Dating Chris Evans Is Too Real to Deal

If they really are getting back together, that's great news. But until we have more substantial evidence than a couple of dinners together, we're not going to get our hopes up.

A Harley Quinn Makeup Tutorial for All the Old School Fans

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Don't get us wrong, we love Margot Robbie's version of Harley Quinn in 2016's Suicide Squad — it's just that we're a little partial to the old-school DC comic book version. There's really just nothing like the badass, OG Harley Quinn that really looks like a harlequin. Isn't that the point of her name? Not only that, the Suicide Squad Harley Quinn has been in heavy rotation for the past couple Halloweens running, so we think a different version for this year's festivities is definitely in order.

More: Classic Wonder Woman Makeup Will Make You Feel Like a Badass on Halloween

Here's how to pull it off.

You will need:

  • Black and white cream colors
  • Translucent powder
  • Black pencil and liquid eyeliners
  • Black matte eyeshadow
  • White matte eyeshadow
  • Mascaras
  • Matte red liquid lipsticks

Directions:

Step 1:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 1
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Using a sponge, stipple white cream color all over your face. It doesn’t need to be super opaque, but enough to create a pretty pale complexion.

Step 2:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 2
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Set your cream color with a light dusting of white or translucent powder.

Step 3:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 3
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Using a black pencil liner, carefully sketch the outline of your mask.

Step 4:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 4
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

More: This Simple Halloween Ghost Makeup Tutorial Makes Spooky Look Glam

Now trace along the inside, circling the eyes.

Step 5:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 5
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Using a flat, synthetic brush, fill the entire mask shape with black shadow. Use a pressing motion to avoid fallout onto the white areas of your face.

Step 6:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 6
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

With a white liner pencil, apply to the eye area and lid, blending with your finger.

Step: 7

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 7
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

With your black pencil liner, line the inner rim of your lower lid.

Step 8:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 8
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Dust a matte white eyeshadow over your lids to prevent creasing.

Step 9:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 9
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

With a black liquid liner, create a dramatic cat eye shape.

Step 10:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 10
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Apply mascara to top and bottom lashes.

Step 11:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 11
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Using your black pencil liner, line lips, exaggerating the peaks of your top lip and extending your smile out on the corners.

Step 12:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 12
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Fill in lips with a deep wine liquid lipstick.

Step 13:

Now with a bright cherry red liquid lipstick, apply this on top for extra dimension.

Step 13:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 13
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Blend black shadow along your lower lash line for some extra smoke.

Step 14:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 14
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Apply a set of false lashes.

Step 15:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 15
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

To give our mask a more leather-like finish, apply a black cream color over top if you’d like.

Step 16:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 16
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Pin up your hair and apply a wig cap.

Step 17:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 17
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Put on a wig that you’ve separated into two high pigtails.

Step 18:

Harley Quinn makeup tutorial: Step 18
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Kick. Ass.

Pin for later

Harley Quinn makeup finished
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows; Graphic design: Karen Cox/SheKnows

Originally published October 2015. Updated October 2017.

Perfect Ombre Lips Are Super Simple — Just Follow This Easy Tutorial

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Ombre lips have been kickin' around Instagram and beauty blogs for a little over a year now, but honestly, a lot of us have shied away from trying it — mostly because it seems so damn complicated. There's no way a non-beauty professional could pull off perfectly ombred lipstick, right? Wrong. It's actually pretty easy.

All you need are two shades of lip color, three to four shades apart, and a white cream color like the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk.

More: 5 Celebrity Makeup Tricks From a Kardashian Makeup Artist

Ombre lips
Image: Tiffany Egbert/SheKnows, Image provided by Ivy Boyd

Step 1

Master a trendy ombre lip in 5 easy steps: Step 5
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

First, fill in your lips with the deeper of the two lip colors, leaving the center open. Use a lip liner first if you’d like, as it needs to be neat and precise. No one likes a sloppy ombre lip! I’m using BITE Amuse Bouche Lipstick in Sangria. I'll be showing you a red/pink lip, but don't be afraid to experiment with purple and pink, red and coral, peach and nude — the possibilities are endless!

Step 2

Master a trendy ombre lip in 5 easy steps: Step 2
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Now, with your lighter shade, apply a generous amount to just the center of your lips. I am using LORAC Alter Ego Lipstick in Nymph.

Step 3

Master a trendy ombre lip in 5 easy steps: Step 3
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Press lips together lightly to blend.

Master a trendy ombre lip in 5 easy steps: Step 3b
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Using a lip brush, soften the sides of the lighter color to blend into the deeper shade. Blend sparingly as you don't want to lose the color graduation altogether.

Step 4

Master a trendy ombre lip in 5 easy steps: Step 4
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

With a white cream color, like NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk, apply a dot to the center of the bottom lip.

More: Julianne Hough’s Makeup Artist Shares the Secret to Bold Eyes

Step 5

Master a trendy ombre lip in 5 easy steps: Step 5
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

Grab that lip brush again and blend more. We want our ombre lip looking seamless and effortless.

Master a trendy ombre lip in 5 easy steps: Finished
Image: Ivy Boyd/SheKnows

You can stop here for a semi-matte ombre lip or you can dab a bit of clear gloss to the center of your bottom lip for a high-shine ombre lip!

OK, let's be real. Are you super lazy? It's OK — I am too sometimes. You could totally just apply your lipstick as usual and then pop the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk in the center. I like to use two lip colors for a more gradual fade but when time is of the essence, just skip it!

Now try not to kiss anyone and ruin your handiwork! But if you do, at least the lip print you leave will look super cool. Ombre lip prints for everyone!

Originally published December 2015. Updated October 2017.

Got a Little Scrap Fabric? Transform It Into a Cool Boho Headband

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You want to know the best thing about a nice, thick cloth headband? You can throw one on when you are having the worst of hair days, and you'll still look effortlessly chic. The best part is that if you happen to be a fabric scrap hoarder, you probably have enough material to make a different hairband to wear every day for a month. Boho vibes, forever.

Here's how to DIY yourself a super-cute wrap-style headband.

More: A Simple Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Spray-Painting Mason Jars

DIY fabric headband

Supplies:

  • Scrap of silky or cotton fabric at least 17 x 11 inches
  • 7-inch piece of 3/4-inch or 1-inch elastic

DIY fabric headband:Supplies

Directions:

DIY fabric headband: Cut one rectangle size

1. Cut one rectangle size 7 x 17 inches to make your front piece. I recommend a rotary cutter because it is quick and easy, but you can use scissors if you don’t have one.

DIY fabric headband: Cut another rectangle to make your back elastic casing

2. Cut another rectangle to make your back elastic casing, size 10 inches x the width of your elastic plus 1/2 inch. My elastic is 1 inch, so my casing width is 1-1/2 inches (the 1/2 inch is for seam allowance).

DIY fabric headband: Sew your elastic casing

More: Your Kids Will Go Crazy for This DIY Erupting Rainbow

3. Sew your elastic casing right sides together along the long edge, taking a 1/2-inch seam allowance.

DIY fabric headband:turn your casing right side out

4. Using a small safety pin, turn your casing right side out.

DIY fabric headband:thread your elastic through the casing

5. Again using your safety pin, thread your elastic through the casing. Before pulling it all the way through, sew the end of the elastic to the end of the casing, keeping the seam in the middle. Then pull it all the way through, creating a nice gather, and sew down the other side the same way, holding elastic and material together.

Sew and flip your front piece

6. Sew and flip your front piece the same way you did your casing piece, then iron flat, again keeping the seam in the middle. This seam will be on the back side of your headband.

DIY fabric headband:Use pins to mark the ends of the front piece

7. Use pins to mark the ends of the front piece, dividing it into fourths. Fold the top into the middle, creating a tuck, and then the bottom into the middle, creating a second tuck.

DIY fabric headband:Make sure the width matches the width of your elastic

8. Make sure the width matches the width of your elastic. Pin the right side of the front piece to the right side of the back piece.

DIY fabric headband:Sew the front and back pieces together

9. Sew the front and back pieces together. Before you sew the second side the same way, check the fit and make any adjustments needed. If you need to shorten, simply trim the front or casing piece to make it smaller.

DIY fabric headband

10. Once both sides are sewn down, your headband is ready to show off!

DIY fabric headband: Finished

Don’t forget to save all your little scraps for projects like these. This little gem of a scrap was the gift wrap for a hostess gift someone brought to me recently. I’m sure they didn’t realize how it could be turned into a gorgeous little headband, but it always pays to think resourcefully!

Originally published April 2014. Updated October 2017.


Take Your Recipes to the Next Level With These 5 Compound Butter Ideas

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There's butter... and then there's compound butter. Chances are you've seen the words floating around a food blog or two, or maybe you've heard Gordon Ramsay casually drop them into conversation on MasterChef, but you're still not quite sure what it is.

So what is it? In short, compound butter adds a flavorful ingredient to regular butter to improve its texture and give it a little more kick. It's also completely addicting — so don't be surprised when you whip up a batch and it doesn't last very long.

We've got five different recipes for the good stuff with just one set of directions. Whether you are in the mood for an earthy flavor, some fruit, a cheese-infusion or a little spice, the end result will be nothing short of gorgeous.

More: Your Cakes Will Be Magical With These Simple Tips for Buttercream Frosting

compound butter recipes
Image: Carolyn Stalnaker/SheKnows

By spreading it on bread or adding a bit to your chicken, vegetables, grilled meats or fish, compound butters take your food (and your senses) up a notch. These recipes can easily be halved, and any seasonings can be adjusted to your liking. You can also give one of these mouthwatering homemade spreads as a holiday or hostess gift, packaged simply in a Mason jar with a ribbon. And remember: A pinch of kosher or sea salt brings out and heightens natural flavors.

5 Compound butter recipes
Image: Carolyn Stalnaker/SheKnows

How to make compound butter

Inspired by Your Homebased Mom

1. Herb-garlic butter recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed and finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme
  • 1 tablespoon freshly chopped sage
  • 1 pinch each salt and pepper

2. Citrus-tarragon butter recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • Zest from 4 clementines (or 1 large orange)
  • Juice from 2 clementines (or juice from 1/2 orange)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh tarragon
  • 1 pinch salt

Next up: Blue cheese and chive butter recipe

Originally published November 2013. Updated October 2017.

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3. Blue cheese and chive butter recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 4 tablespoons blue cheese (more or less, depending on how strong the cheese is)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives
  • 1 pinch salt (only if necessary)

More: 18 Hot Chocolate Recipes That Will Change the Way You Feel About Winter

4. Smoked paprika-jalapeño butter recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 jalapeño peppers, pulp and seeds removed, very finely diced
  • 1 pinch salt

5. Spiced brown sugar butter with walnuts and raisins recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2-1/2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup raisins
5 Compound butter recipes
Image: Carolyn Stalnaker/SheKnows

Directions for all compound butters

  1. To a large glass or steel mixing bowl, add all the ingredients. Using an electric hand mixer, beat all the ingredients until well incorporated and fluffy. (If you do not have an electric hand mixer, you can do this by hand using a strong spoon; it will just take a bit more work.)
  2. Place a medium-size piece of plastic wrap onto a clean, flat surface. Using silicone spatulas, gather the butter together in the bowl, and then spoon the butter mixture onto the center of the plastic wrap.
  3. Grab the bottom portion of the plastic wrap, pull it up over the butter, and form the wrap around the butter, rolling and forming a log shape. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap, and place the butter in the fridge to set.
5 Compound butter recipes
Image: Carolyn Stalnaker/SheKnows

Tip: Compound butters are best eaten within a few days but can be frozen until ready to use. To freeze the butter, wrap the log in parchment paper and then in plastic wrap (or place in a zip-close bag, sealing out the air), and then wrap snugly in aluminum foil. Label the butter, and place it in the freezer for up to two months.

The New Rules for Cleaning With Kids

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Plenty of parents struggle day in day out to keep their kids — and their kids' surroundings — clean. Not a day goes by that we don’t see a commercial about keeping your countertops spotless and killing 99.9 percent of all bacteria on your household surfaces. Then there’s the constant need to take a washcloth to your kid’s face and hands — because, of course, bacteria lives there! Oh, and let’s not forget we need to make sure they eat clean too. Or do we?

The good news: No, we don't. I’m not saying to abandon all modern hygiene. I’m suggesting that as a culture, we’ve become too clean.

Researchers in New Zealand found that the habit of sanitizing isn’t really helping kids stay healthy. In a study with two groups of students, one group was asked to add hand sanitizer to their routine and the other to stick to regular hand-washing. Results showed that hand sanitizing didn’t add any benefits to the kids, and the absentee rate was the same for both groups; they stayed home sick from school just as often. How about that?

Whether you identify as a lazy mom or not, read on to get a hack, tip or simply a new idea of how to help take care of your little ones when it comes to cleaning. Why not toss out the old "rules" for ones that not only make life easier, but might actually make it healthier too?

Clean hands

  • Old rule: Use hand sanitizer! Don’t leave home without it! Use it whenever you can’t wash your hands, or use it in addition to washing with soap and water.

  • New rule: Swap hand sanitizers with natural hand wipes. Yep, wipes aren't just for sloppy meals you eat with your hands. Sanitizers are harsh and kill off the good bacteria on our skin, leaving it dry and stripped. Water-based wipes, on the other hand, are effective for a reason. The physical act of scrubbing helps remove the unwanted grime and pathogenic bacteria. Just make sure to choose non-antibacterial wipes, and you’re good to go.

Clean eating

  • Old rule: Stock up on prepackaged snacks and 100-calorie packs for easy lunch and snack prep.

  • New rule: Sure, prepackaged foods are super-convenient, but they’re also expensive and often unhealthy. Instead, offer kids homemade yogurt parfaits with fruit, nuts and honey, or add savory cheese cubes for a new spin. Love salty snacks? Swap out chips and swap in pickles: Lacto-fermenting your own cucumbers, carrots or green beans is easier than you might think. The recipes range from the ridiculously easy (just veggies, water and kosher salt) to the just plain easy (if you like a few more spices). Bottom line: If you can fill a jar with water, salt and veggies, then this may well be your new favorite thing. Your kids will get their bellies in good shape with all that good bacteria and keep their minds sharp by steering clear of sugary processed foods.

Clean home

  • Old rule: Disinfect everything! Use bleach to kill 99.9 percent of bacteria and germs!

  • New rule: With less time (or motivation) to clean, it's easy to resort to using products with bleach, as it promises to get the job done by destroying everything in its path. But how do you feel when you breathe those fumes in? Not good, right? Scrap the harsh chemicals for more natural and less harmful solutions. White vinegar is super-cheap and effective at cleaning anything from your countertops to your floors and windows. Don't like the smell? Whip up an easy batch of cleaner with distilled water, witch hazel and some of your favorite essential oil scents for a teeny fraction of the cost of the harsh chemical stuff. It’s nontoxic and sparkling clean.

Clean habits

  • Old rule: Come right home and hit the books!

  • New rule: Swap out mandatory after-school homework and/or chore time for mandatory outdoor time. Yes, really. With less recess time at school, it’s important now more than ever to get your kids out of the house. Playing sports, relaxing and reading in the fresh air or taking the dog for a walk — just spending time outside without interfacing with electronics is a way to help clear the mind and prep for a productive night of homework and unwinding for a good night's sleep. Also, letting kids get a little dirty is a good thing. Dr. Maya Shetreat-Klein explains in her book Healthy Food, Healthy Gut, Happy Child that children who are exposed to less sterile environments — like, you know, the outdoors — actually have fewer infections. Children who grow up spending time in nature are even less likely to develop issues such as asthma and allergies. So let ‘em get good and dirty, and feel like a better parent for it.

Clean hygiene

  • Old rule: Make sure kids lather up head-to-toe every day!

  • New rule: You probably know that shampooing every day is out — but more and more people are opting to shorten and simplify bathing routines too. Not only do long, hot showers with soap dry out your skin and strip it of its natural oils, they're a big waste of water (and time). The solution? Suggest kids take a quick rinse and/or just use soap on the areas that need it. (You’ll be surprised at how effective this is; plus, it keeps their skin microbiome thriving, and that’s a really good thing.) This means less time bathing and more fun time to... play outside some more!

So go ahead and swap out one, some or all of the above "rules" — old for new. It's simply a new way to view what it means to be clean, but it may get you rethinking your entire routine (and even saving your family time and sick days in the process). You don't have to be a lazy mom to realize that clean is overrated.
The lazy mom's guide to cleaning with kids: Mother Dirt
Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

Katharine McPhee & David Foster Confirm They're Dating, But There's a Catch

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Updated Oct. 24, 8:15 a.m. PT: It's official: Katherine McPhee and David Foster are definitely dating. Except, they're not official, even though McPhee wants them to be. Romance is tricky, y'all.

"It’s a little more than casual, but they’re not exclusive," an insider told Us Weekly. "Kat thinks they should be a little more serious, but it’s mainly casual on his part."

But even though he's acting like it's all casual, McPhee has reportedly hung out with some of Foster's kids, which sounds a little more serious to us than he might be admitting. McPhee has also joined the whole family at charity events.

A second insider dished, "David Foster and Katharine are hooking up and casually dating on the down low. They are just having fun right now, but they have such a great chemistry and really connect organically on so many levels. There is potential for things to escalate in the future. They were working together and things blossomed as they worked closer with one another. Erin and Sara are particularly fond of Katharine and think she is just the most wonderful person. They are totally team McFoster!"

Considering Erin posted a photo to her Instagram story in September calling McPhee her "new step mom," we'd say she's more than on board with this romance.

But is it as casual as Foster says? Is he really seeing other women, too? He's a tough one to lock down, so we'd believe it.

Original story:

If Yolanda Hadid, who is easily one of the top five greatest Real Housewives of all time in my opinion, couldn't tie David Foster down, we should have known that no other woman on Earth could do it, either.

More: Scorpion's Katharine McPhee dishes on a "sexier" season and hot new album

We were sure that Foster was dating Christie Brinkley. Sure, a rep for Brinkley denied it, saying they were just friends. But that's what all celebs do when they're in a new relationship and want to keep it hush-hush. Foster and the former supermodel were spotted together a bunch around the end of 2016. As recently as last week, they were seen leaving The Stinking Rose restaurant in Beverly Hills together.

But either they were never really dating or Foster moved on quickly, because he spent a very PDA-filled night out with Katharine McPhee at every celeb's favorite hotspot, Nobu, in Malibu on Friday. An onlooker told E! News that they arrived around 8:30 p.m. and were shown to a quiet, private ocean-view table in a corner.

"David and Katharine were very intimate during their dinner," the eyewitness said. "David was seen grabbing Katharine's face and kissing her cheek several times. Katharine was doing the same to David's face and they were acting as if they were a couple."

More: Katharine McPhee & more cheating celebs caught in the act

The onlooker saw the rumored couple order two bottles of red wine and a table full of sushi, then leave together in an Uber less than two hours after they arrived. We all know what happens when you pile into an Uber with your date after drinking a couple of bottles of wine in less than two hours.

Arrested Development gif
Image: Giphy

More: Newly divorced Katharine McPhee is dating her co-star

Have fun, you crazy kids.

The Correct Way to Apply All Your Skin Care Products

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Applying your skin care products is probably something you think you have down pat. Open the bottle, squeeze it out, put it on. What's so hard? Well, not to have a "you're doing it wrong" moment, but you might be doing it wrong. Probably not colossally wrong, but wrong enough to be at risk for certain skin reactions.

Dr. Sue Ann Wee of Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC explains, "Many patients come in with both irritant and allergic contact dermatitis from their beauty products, especially from overlapping active ingredients on their skin." She's no stranger to treating acne flare-ups and sunburns caused by beauty products, either.

More: 11 Skin Care Mistakes You're Probably Making

And let's face it. When it comes to beauty products, we tend to buy, apply, and ask questions later. Instead, we should be consulting with a dermatologist about the right products for our skin types first. The following pointers from Dr. Sue Ann about how to apply certain products are a good starting point, but it's still best to find a derm near you to talk specific products for the safest results.

OK, so your skin product army is lined up in front of you. What's first? According to Dr. Sue Ann, start with cleanser. No surprises there. Depending on your skin needs, you can follow with an exfoliating cleanser, usually only needed at nighttime. Next, apply toner, serum, face mist, eye cream and face oil or another moisturizer, in that order (all are optional based on your skin types and skin concerns).

Cleanser

Wash your hands first, and then splash your face with lukewarm water. Apply cleanser to your fingertips and gently massage it into your skin in circular motions. No rubbing necessary, warns Dr. Sue Ann. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry (still no rubbing).

Exfoliator

Apply similar to how you would apply cleanser. Beloved tools like the Clarisonic can also help, but Dr. Sue Ann says sensitive skin types should take caution.

Additionally, she says, "Depending on your skin type and personal medical history, your dermatologist may recommend a nighttime topical retinoid or alpha hydroxy acid to slowly exfoliate skin." Remember that alpha hydroxy acids should only be used at night because they could cause burns in sunlight.

More: Crazy-Easy Exfoliating Scrubs Your Skin Will Thank You For

Toner

If you're using toner, apply with a cotton pad before you get to the moisturizer or face oil step. Avoid applying to the delicate skin around eyelids and lips. Dr. Sue Ann explains that you typically only need to apply toner to your T-zone or other problem areas identified by your dermatologist.

Serum

Use it sparingly! A few drops are all you need. Gently massage in with your fingertips, and avoid your eye and mouth areas. Dr. Sue Ann warns that using serums and toners together can be redundant and cause irritation. Again, talk to your dermatologist about what's best for your skin.

Face mist

Skin mists can add extra hydration when spritzed on before moisturizer. Hello, radiance! No special instructions from Dr. Sue Ann here (other than checking the ingredients and checking with your derm). However, here's a little advice from one beauty junkie to another: a facialist once told me it takes three veils of mist to get good coverage.

Eye cream

Starting closest to your nose, apply a pea-sized amount under each eye and gently massage outward toward the top of your cheekbone. "Follow the shape of the undereye," Dr. Sue Ann explains. Avoid the lash line to prevent unwanted chemicals from getting in your eyes. She also warns to watch your pressure: "The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than other areas on the face."

Moisturizer and face oil

Make sure your hands are clean and apply in upward, circular motions. When it comes to oils, Dr. Sue Ann says to use them only in small amounts. It's wise to ask your derm which types of oils may benefit your skin, and you can add a few drops to your moisturizer.

After you talk to your dermatologist, they'll probably recommend you test products on a small area of your skin before applying it everywhere. Best to avoid accidentally conducting a chemistry experiment on your entire face by testing it on a small area first. Amen to that!

This post was sponsored by Carmex Comfort Care.

George Clooney Is Scared of ‘Breaking’ His Twins — Oh, & Matt Damon Is His Manny

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Actor George Clooney joked to Jimmy Kimmel on Monday night that he's done with diaper duty with 4-month-old twins Alexander and Ella — but somehow we're not buying that from the notorious jokester. (We can't imagine his badass lawyer wife Amal Clooney would let him off that easy.) Still, it sounds like the babies' first foray into solid food has left George Clooney a little queasy.

More: Amal & George Clooney Look Ridiculously Glam in First Appearance Since Becoming Parents

“...[W]e introduced the children to solid food on Friday. How that goes in as a carrot and how that comes out the way it comes out is shocking,” Clooney said, prompting big laughs from Kimmel.

Clooney may be a tequila tycoon — having sold his liquor business for a cool billion — but he's as nervous a first-time parent as anyone else. “Listen, I’m scared to death. It’s terrifying,” he confessed to Kimmel. “You’re afraid of breaking them. They’re so little.”

More: George & Amal's Twins Are Here — & Their Names Are Perfect

True story! Clooney then offered to have his "manny" bring out the babies for the audience to see. Said manny was instantly recognizable to Kimmel — and the studio audience — as Kimmel's longtime frenemy Matt Damon, who stepped onstage pushing a twin stroller and laden with diaper-bag regalia.

Kimmel feigned irritation that Damon had set foot on his stage, and the two got into their usual hilarious antagonistic banter.

Kimmel Damon Clooney

Kimmel Damon Clooney

The faux fight ended with Damon offering to show everyone "the twins" and then whipping out two middle fingers named "Screw" and "You." Fear not: Actual Clooney babies were safe at home with Mama Amal, far away from the fray of celebrity man-posturing.

Fergie Gave the Saddest Relationship Update About Josh Duhamel

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No good thing lasts forever, as Fergie and Josh Duhamel proved when they announced the end of their marriage in September. But if you thought you were already heartbroken over this, wait til you hear what Fergie said about the split during her appearance on The Wendy Williams Show this week.

More: People Still Aren't Convinced Kim Kardashian Wasn't Altered in Fergie's Video

"It wasn’t my plan. I wanted to stay married forever," Fergie told host Williams. "I love Josh, he’s the father of my child."

Fergie and Duhamel didn't announce their divorce until September, but they actually separated all the way back in February. They kept the split under wraps basically until it was time for Fergie to start promoting her new album, which features a lot of songs inspired by her relationship with Duhamel.

More: Fergie Opens Up About Her Most Embarrassing Moment, & it's Mortifying

"The most vulnerable songs are actually Josh's favorite songs on the album," she told Marie Claire back in September. "He's heard them for years. He's been with me through the whole creation of this album and he's very much a part of it. And a lot of these songs are about many relationships. I've experienced different types of relationships in my life and they're not always romantic—though it's maybe the same feeling."

Despite her heartbreaking revelation on Williams' show, Fergie says she and Duhamel will always be connected in at least one way: their son, Axl.

"We forever have that project together and we’re doing the best we can," she said. "You’re making me cry."

More: Whoops! Fergie Gets Added to List of Awkward Wardrobe Malfunctions (VIDEO)

Ugh, Fergie, you're making us cry, too. That breakup is still clearly raw for everyone involved. We just hope it gets easier as time goes by.

Taco Bell's Kit Kat Quesadilla Is the Stuff Dreams Are Made Of

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When I head to Taco Bell, I'm usually there for something savory. We're talking coat-your-fingers-in-orange-powder-cheesy-Doritos-Locos-tacos savory here.

But they're testing a new dessert so brilliant in its simplicity, I can't help but be intrigued. It's the Chocoladilla, a quesadilla hybrid made by folding up a Kit Kat bar in a flour tortilla, then griddling it until it becomes a pocket of melted chocolate and crispy wafer cookies. It's a pretty ingenious idea (though TBH, I think I might have invented this in college), and the price is right at just $1.

Even more intriguing? The Caramel Chocoladilla, which is filled with Twix bars. As it melts, the caramel and chocolate melt together to make for a sweet and gooey filling, bestrewn with crunchy cookie bits and all encased in tortilla for easy eating.

As with all borderline miracles, there is a catch. The Kit Kat Chocoladilla is only currently available in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the Caramel Chocoladilla is being tested in the smaller suburb of Pewaukee, Wisconsin. Of course, if you're truly desperate, you can probably easily hack this one at home. And the possibilities are pretty endless — imagine how amazing one of these made with Snickers or Reese's Peanut Butter Cups would be!

For now, we'll just have to sit and wait to see if the Chocoladilla will catch on and be upgraded to nationwide menu status. The good news? It was available on menus in the U.K., so there's hope yet!


People Really Think Taylor Swift Is Secretly Pregnant

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Swifties, we need to have a little talk. Apparently, there is a photo of Taylor Swift from a recent meet and greet in which she wore an oversized sweater dress, and then bent over to get close to a fan, giving herself a little tummy pooch. And apparently, that means Swifties are going off the rails with theories that Swift is pregnant and her new single, "Gorgeous," is somehow a pregnancy announcement.

More: Taylor Swift Continues World Domination With New Lifestyle App

Taylor Swift picture makes her fans thinks she's preg

Taylor Swift picture makes her fans thinks she's preg

I can feel a migraine coming on from how wild this theory actually is.

OK, so first thing: Every time a celebrity takes an unflattering photo, we cannot jump to the conclusion that they are pregnant. That is seriously rude and messed up. Take a hot second here and imagine someone takes a photo of you after you eat Chipotle and how it would feel if millions of people saw it and started calling you pregnant. Everyone. Just chill.

More: 16 Taylor Swift Lyrics That Work Even Better as Pick-Up Lines

And secondly: Have y'all even listened to "Gorgeous?" Clearly, you have not, so I've taken the liberty of writing out some of the lyrics below. Sorry if anyone is like, saving it or something and this is a spoiler.

Taylor Swift Gorgeous Lyric Video

Taylor Swift Gorgeous Lyric Video

"You should take it as a compliment / That I got drunk and made fun of the way you talk." If this is about a baby, Swift is already in the running for worst mom ever, and this is literally the first line of the song.

"Whiskey on ice, Sunset and Vine / You've ruined my life by not being mine." There's a theme here, and it is alcohol, something you don't have when you're pregnant.

"Guess I'll just stumble on home to my cats / Alone / Unless you wanna come along."

Generally, you're not supposed to allow your baby to choose whether to come home with you, and especially not when you're threatening to passive aggressively stumble there yourself to hang out alone with your cats.

More: The Most Important Celebrity Lawsuits Through the Years

In conclusion: There is literally nothing about this song that points to Swift being pregnant, and you're all being jerks by piling onto this photo of her in an unflattering, yet probably super comfy outfit. Let the woman live already.

Victoria Beckham's Kids Hilariously Roast Her (& Her High Kick) Online

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Even Posh Spice isn't immune to a little teasing from her family and friends, and it is pretty much the sweetest thing ever. Singer, designer and former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham's signature Instagram move is a reclining high kick — and recently, her sons (and Kourtney Kardashian) took to Instagram to try to recreate it.

MoreVictoria Beckham in Tears as Eldest Son Brooklyn Leaves for College

For reference, here is Lady Beckham bending it back in 2016. This is what Bend it Like Beckham is really referencing, right?

Victoria Beckham kick

Victoria Beckham kick

And here's the 2017 version with a cute shoutout to Kourtney Kardashian, obviously a close mom pal of Beckham's.

Victoria Beckham kick 2

Victoria Beckham kick 2

Kardashian ribbed Beckham on Sept. 27 with her own reclining, stilettoed kick captioned, "Victoria, I'll call u later I just got back from the football game." (But which kind of "football," Kourtney?)

Kourtney kick

Kourtney kick

And then the parodies got really good. Beckham's son Cruz attempted the pose in adorable fashion, captioning his shot, "Not so flexible! @victoriabeckham #yearsofdance"

Cruz Beckham

Cruz Beckham

Big brother Romeo also got in on the action, lamenting his own lack of flexibility. “Why on earth am I not flexible? #notsoflexible @victoriabeckham.”

Romeo Beckham

Romeo Beckham

MoreVictoria Beckham Hammered for Kissing Daughter Harper on the Mouth

Who knew a leg in the air could cause such hilarity of Rockette kicks on Instagram? That's the Victoria Beckham effect, people. Go on. You know you're going to take a picture of yourself in the pose. We'll wait.

Anna Faris Reveals the Problems With Both Her Failed Marriages

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Anna Faris' new memoir, Unqualified, really gives a candid look inside her life. And that includes her two marriages, the most recent one to Chris Pratt that fell apart after the book was mostly written.

More: 9 Things Chris Pratt's Done Since Announcing His Split From Anna Faris

Faris has been open about her decision not to change much about the book, even though it discusses her relationship with Pratt when things were good and will likely leave readers with a lot of questions about what went wrong. But she does reveal that neither of her marriages were perfect. They ended for different reasons, and Faris is being open and straightforward about both of them.

One thing they did have in common, though, was a fame imbalance. When Faris married her first husband, Ben Indra, she was relatively unknown and just starting out as an actor. When she shot to fame after landing a role in Scary Movie, "there was an immediate shift in the power dynamic of our relationship after that, though I didn't clock it at the time," Faris wrote. "It never occurred to me that this moment of success could have a negative impact on what was then a budding relationship."

More: Anna Faris Hits Red Carpet With Ridiculously Cute Son Jack

Something similar happened when Faris ended her marriage and started dating Pratt. Her career was dying down a little, and his was just starting. When Pratt shot to stardom with several huge movie roles, the imbalance was there again, but this time, Faris was on the other side of it.

It really caused problems when Pratt starred in Passengers alongside Jennifer Lawrence.

"Before they met in person, my publicist, out of the blue, pulled me aside. 'Anna, listen there are going to be paparazzi all over them,'" Faris wrote. "'There are going to be shots of them laughing together on their way to set. There are going to be stories circulating, and you have to brace yourself for this.'"

Faris later described those stories as "totally hurtful," and admitted that they did have an impact on her relationship with Pratt.

More: Kristen Bell Understands Why Chris Pratt & Anna Faris Split

No matter how you look at it, dating in the spotlight can't be easy. And based on the reviews so far, Faris' new book is an open, candid look at what it's like.

Birth Control Plays a Lifesaving Role in My Lesbian Relationship

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When I told my girlfriend, Kaylyn, about writing this article and asked her about why she uses birth control, she said that, for her, “It’s basic economics and basic self-care.” Without it, she’s fatigued and has cramps so severe she becomes bedridden for a day or two each month. That adds up quickly, contributing to up to a $2,000 loss annually.

My reasons for using birth control are similar.

I’ve been on and off birth control pills for years. While some may assume any form of birth control is used solely to prevent pregnancy, that’s not why we use it. Kaylyn and I are both cis lesbians and lean on health reasons for the use of our birth control.

It’s hard to say how many times I’ve heard people question, either in person or online, why a lesbian would have any use for birth control. Between the “waste of tax payers’ money” remarks to the “someone’s probably cheating” comments, it seems that a lot of people still view birth control as something used only to prevent a pregnancy.

Yes, people with vaginas often use birth control for that exact reason, but it being the only reason people use birth control couldn’t be further from the truth.

I’ve had extremely difficult periods since my very first one. In the days leading up to my period, I would get horrible cramps that would force me to leave school early just so I could curl up in my bed with a heating pad. The first day or two of my menstrual cycle would come with a heavy flow that would give me constant anxiety that I was going to bleed through my clothes and everyone would think I was gross or dirty. Monthly, I would also get everything from PMS-related migraines to heightened episodes of depression.

More: Trump Administration Makes It Much Easier for Employers to Deny Birth Control

When I went away to college and could finally make my own medical decisions, I made an appointment with my doctor after one awful period too many. My doctor and I discussed my symptoms and decided that birth control pills were my best option.

Within a month, I felt like an entirely different person. No longer did I get cramps that left me curled up in my bed. The headaches that sometimes hurt so badly I cried and inadvertently made them worse drastically declined in number. Sure, birth control wasn’t perfect and took a while to get used to, but it allowed me to feel like a person the entire month and not just three weeks of it.

After coming out as a lesbian, I wondered if I still needed to take my birth control pills. I didn’t know as much about sexuality or gender identity as I do now and it just seemed silly for me to be a lesbian and on birth control. I realized, though, that even before I figured out I wasn’t straight, I took birth control for reasons that had nothing to do with preventing pregnancy.

I thought about all the people I’d ever talked to, many of them cis lesbians or bisexual women dating another cis woman, who used birth control to clear up acne, for endometriosis or for other reasons that were perfectly valid. Figuring out I was a lesbian didn’t make my use of birth control any less valid, nor should it, so I kept taking it.

According to Planned Parenthood, in addition to helping with symptoms of PMS, birth control can also help prevent or reduce anemia, cysts, infections of the uterus, infections of fallopian tubes, infections of ovaries and ovarian and endometrial cancers.

Birth control became even more important to me after my mom passed away from lung and endometrial cancers. I went to my gynecologist very confused about what that meant for my future, and she informed me that the best thing I could do to reduce my risk of endometrial cancer was to keep taking birth control. Birth control took on a new meaning in my life. It was my safety net, my preventative health care.

Pregnancy was never an issue in our relationship, but the need for birth control always has been. Early into our relationship, Kaylyn and I talked candidly about what birth control meant in both our lives. She had recently gotten an IUD and loved the way it helped her “manage PMS symptoms and dysmenorrhea.” It was great meeting someone who was not only relatable but also nonjudgmental.

More: 10 Herbal Supplements That Could Be Messing With Your Birth Control Pills

With her, I felt comfortable being the lesbian on birth control that much of the world didn’t understand. I can be me, cramp-free. That’s a feeling even better than never having PMS again.

By Kelley O'Brien

Clear Pumpkin Pie is the Weirdest Dessert to Serve This Thanksgiving

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There are two types of people in this world. There are those who refuse to make anything on Thanksgiving but the dishes they were served as a child — the Stove Top stuffing crew, if you will — and there are those who use the holiday as a chance to experiment (those are the people who do crazy stuff like serve goose instead of turkey). And just in time for the holidays, there's a new type of pumpkin pie that will be a total abomination in the eyes of the former group, but a welcome newcomer to the latter. We're talkin' clear pumpkin pie.

More: 20 Paleo Thanksgiving Sides That Will Totally Save Your Holiday

The miniature dessert is being served at famed restaurant Alinea in Chicago, which is known for pushing the boundaries of food during their epic, hourslong tasting menu meals.

Clear Pumpkin Pie is Alinea's latest dessert

Clear Pumpkin Pie is Alinea's latest dessert

The clear pumpkin pie is apparently made with pumpkin distillate, a concentrated essence of pumpkin that's usually made by collecting the steam that's released when reducing mashed pumpkin. You wind up with a product that has a strong pumpkin flavor but colorless appearance. The distillate is then "barely" gelled, with many of the commenters on the video guessing the chef used agar agar, which is made from seaweed and sets more lightly than gelatin.

More: Alternative Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas — Because Not Everyone Loves Turkey

The rest is pretty simple — it looks like there's a traditional crust and a drop of whipped cream on top.

While most of us don't have hundreds of dollars to drop on dinner at Alinea, it's inspiring to see what everyone else gets up to on Thanksgiving. You could probably recreate a similar dessert using juiced pumpkin and gelatin to create something that would be a welcome lighter option on the table than a traditional custard-based pie. And when you go easy with dessert, that means you can have as many extra helpings of stuffing as you'd like, right?

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