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'Smart Condom' Is Like a Fitbit for Penises

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If you’ve ever had sex with a person with a penis and thought, "This is fine, but what would really improve this experience would be knowing the average velocity of the thrusts," you’re in luck.

In just one short month, a smart condom ring called the i.Con will become available. It promises to add more data to the bedroom — where it belongs. But fear not, holiday shoppers: You can "register your interest" now and be the first to know when it officially hits the market. The product retails at $80.99.

Clearly, the name is supposed to translate to “icon,” but I read it as “I con,” as in, “I con people into thinking they should have sex with me,” or a simplistic way of telling your partner that you are incarcerated.

More: Startling Rise in Babies Born With Syphilis

The description on the British Condoms site opens with an updated version of the classic infomercial sales pitch:

“Have you ever wondered how many calories you’re burning during intercourse? How many thrusts? Speed of your thrusts? The duration of your sessions? Frequency? How many different positions you use in the period of a week, month or year? Ever wondered how you stack up to other people from around the world?”

ONLY EVERY DAMN DAY. Tell me more, fancy British people!

As it turns out, i.Con has many functions, although none are as an actual condom. This doohickey is a ring that sits over the base of a condom (sold separately), and, according to the manufacturer, is “extremely comfortable, water resistant and lightweight.”

It essentially works the same as any wearable fitness-tracking device — it measures different variables during sex, which are then transmitted via Bluetooth to the i.Con app so you can view and share your performance results. You have the option of keeping your performance data anonymous, but something tells me that people using this device are probably into the competitive sharing component — in which case, you can share it with a set group of friends or just make it public.

It is a literal virtual dick-measuring contest.

More: Straight Women Orgasm Less Than Any Other Group

So let’s get to the good stuff: What does the i.Con keep track of? Turns out, a lot, including calories burned during sex, both the speed and average velocity of thrusts, total number of thrusts, girth, average skin temperature, different positions used and the frequency and total duration of sex sessions.

The product is fully adjustable to different girths, charges in about an hour and lasts for 6 to 8 hours of “live” usage — which, for some, could translate to weeks or even months of use between charges.

Mashable reported that the developers behind the device claim they are in the final stages of medical testing for having the i.Con double as an STI indicator, although they don’t mention how that component would work.

More: Finally — Lipstick for Your Labia That Glues You Shut During Your Period

Would an STI sensor be a positive development in sexual health? Absolutely it would. But do I buy it? Nope. But do you know what does work? Showing up at a clinic or your doctor’s office or a Planned Parenthood and getting an actual blood test. No, it’s not as fun as a robot condom, but at least you know it’s accurate.


12 New Movies We're Excited For This December

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Finally! The last of the Oscar contenders are getting released, but between holiday shopping and preparing for visiting family, it may be tough to fit in all 12 of these films. We encourage you to take a break from holiday hell and head to the cinema to enjoy at least one of these great movies. You'll be glad you did.

This year, there is surprising talk of the enigmatic and quirky James Franco getting nominated for Best Actor for playing Tommy Wiseau in The Disaster Artist and Allison Janney getting the nom for Best Supporting Actress for playing Tonya Harding's evil mom in I, Tonya. Though Pitch Perfect 3 may not win a ton of awards, we have to admit it's at the top of our list — after the new Star Wars movie, of course.

Take a look at the best films coming to theaters this month.

More: 15 Movies We're Excited For This November

Dec. 1

The Disaster Artist

The 2003 movie The Room is known as the Citizen Kane of bad movies for its sheer ridiculous storytelling and over-the-top acting. James Franco decided he would play the enigmatic Tommy Wiseau, the writer, director and star of The Room, in a movie that explores the making of the worst movie of all time.

Disaster Artist

Disaster Artist

The Shape of Water

This adult fairy tale, directed by monster master Guillermo del Toro, explores “otherness” by having a mute woman fall in love with a sexy sea creature. It sounds strange, but it is one of the most beautiful films ever made about people who are marginalized by society.

The Shape of Water

The Shape of Water

Dec. 8

I, Tonya

This biopic is down and dirty, telling the story of ignominious figure skater Tonya Harding (Margo Robbie) and the violent yet daft takedown of her rival, Nancy Kerrigan (Caitlin Carver), just before the 1994 Olympic games. But it's Allison Janney, playing LaVona Golden, Tonya's alcoholic and abusive mother, who steals the show for her sheer brutality.

I, Tonya

I, Tonya

Dec. 15

Ferdinand

When gentle giant Ferdinand, a bull with a big heart, is mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn from his home. Determined to return to his family, he rallies a misfit team for the ultimate adventure.

Ferdinand

Ferdinand

Star Wars: The Last Jedi

After entering the Jedi world, Rey joins Luke Skywalker on an adventure with Leia, Finn and Poe that unlocks mysteries of the Force and secrets of the past. Both Carrie Fisher and her daughter, Billie Lourd, make appearances in the film. We miss you, Carrie!

Star Wars the Last Jedi

Star Wars the Last Jedi

Gotti

John Travolta stars as the infamous mafia boss in this father-and-son story exploring violence, betrayal and possibly redemption.

Gotti

Gotti

More: What's Coming & Going on Netflix This November

Dec. 20

The Greatest Showman

In this musical, Hugh Jackman stars as P.T. Barnum, the man who created the big top circus and maybe even show business itself. Zendaya, Zac Efron and Michelle Williams also star.

Greatest Showman

Greatest Showman

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

Any child of the '80s has fond memories of the 1985 film Jumanji, starring the late Robin Williams. This time around, Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Karen Gillan and Kevin Hart bring the adventure to four unsuspecting teens.

Jumanji

Jumanji

Dec. 22

Pitch Perfect 3

The Pitches are back! After winning the world a cappella championship, the gals have split up and started their independent lives. They decide to reunite for one last singing competition at an overseas USO tour but face a group that uses both instruments and voices.

Pitch 3

Pitch 3

Father Figures

After learning that their mother has been lying to them for years about their allegedly deceased father, two fraternal twin brothers (Owen Wilson and Ed Helms) hit the road in order to find him.

Father Figures

Father Figures

All the Money in the World

Mark Wahlberg stars in this true story about the kidnapping of 16-year-old John Paul Getty III (Charlie Plummer) and the desperate attempt by his devoted mother (Michelle Williams) to convince his billionaire grandfather, John Paul Getty (Christopher Plummer), to pay the ransom. Ridley Scott directs.

All the Money in the World

All the Money in the World

More: Hollywood's Most Talented Siblings

Dec. 27

Phantom Thread

Set in 1950s London, Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) is a renowned dressmaker whose busy life is disrupted by a strong-willed young woman, Alma (Vicky Krieps), who becomes his muse and lover. This is said to be Day-Lewis' last film before retiring from show business.

Phantom Thread

Phantom Thread

Attention Pizza-Loving Parents: Domino's Now Has a Baby Registry

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If you have a bun in the oven, it’s possible right now you are craving nothing more than, well, a pizza in the oven.

If this sounds like you, you may want to sit down because we've got some pretty big news. Starting on Nov. 29, customers can create their own baby registry at Domino's, and in more fun news, the Domino’s baby registry is being launched exactly nine months after they launched a wedding registry!

More: 10 Crazy fast-food items that might push the envelope a bit too far

That relationship is moving along swimmingly!

There’s nothing more exciting — and exhausting — than welcoming a new member to the family,” Meenakshi Nagarajan, Domino’s director of digital marketing, told People. “From baby showers to the big delivery, our baby registry makes it easy to enjoy pizza during the exciting events leading up to the baby’s arrival and thereafter.” 

To sign up for the registry, sign up on the on the site and select gifts for your wish list, choosing from items like food packages and gift cards and cute pizza-themed gifts like yoga mats and baby onesies.

More: Pizza Hut ups its game with certified gluten-free pizza

Well, seems more fun to us than a Diaper Genie.

Matt Lauer Fired From NBC News Following Sexual Misconduct Allegations

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In a shocking announcement made on Today, it was revealed that Matt Lauer, a staple at NBC for the better part of 25 years, has been fired from the network following an accusation of "inappropriate sexual behavior" made by a coworker. Lauer's cohost, Savannah Guthrie, read a statement from NBC head Andrew Lack during a live broadcast, looking just as shocked as many viewers undoubtedly felt.

More: Bill O'Reilly Sat Down With Matt Lauer to Address Sexual Harassment Claims

"On Monday night, we received a detailed complaint from a colleague about inappropriate sexual behavior in the workplace by Matt Lauer," the statement read. "It represented, after serious review, a clear violation of our company’s standards. As a result, we’ve decided to terminate his employment. While it is the first complaint about his behavior in the over 20 years he’s been at NBC News, we were also presented with reason to believe this may not have been an isolated incident."

It continued, "Our highest priority is to create a workplace environment where everyone feels safe and protected and to ensure that any actions that run counter to our core values are met with consequences, no matter who the offender. We are deeply saddened by this turn of events. But we will face it together as a news organization — and do it in as transparent a manner as we can."

Savannah Guthrie announces Matt Lauer firing from NBC

Savannah Guthrie announces Matt Lauer firing from NBC

Lauer signed a new, $20 million contract with NBC last year that extended through 2018. He has been a part of the Today team since the early 1990s, so it goes without saying this news is a huge blow to NBC.

More: At Least Matt Lauer Is Nice to Someone

Guthrie was visibly distressed as she read the statement and then commented on the shocking nature of the news.

"For the moment, all we can say is that we are heartbroken. I'm heartbroken for Matt. He is my dear, dear friend and my partner and he is beloved by many, many people here. And I'm heartbroken for the brave colleague who came forward to tell her story and any other women who have their own stories to tell," Guthrie said. "We are grappling with a dilemma that so many people have faced these past few weeks. How do you reconcile your love for someone with the revelation that they have behaved badly? And I don't know the answer to that."

She added, "But I do know that this reckoning that so many organizations have been going through is important. It's long overdue and it must resolve in workplaces where all women, all people, feel respected."

Guthrie also told viewers she and Hoda Kotb, who joined her for her broadcast, did not yet know any more than what was in Lack's statement, but they would be sharing new developments as the day goes on.

Lauer now joins an ever-growing list of powerful men who have been ousted following allegations of sexual assault, misconduct and harassment. Like so many others, the evidence of his wrongdoing was there all along — in 2012, Katie Couric admitted on Watch What Happens Live that Lauer's "most annoying habit" was his penchant for regularly pinching her butt at work, which is harassment at best and assault at worst.

There are still no details available about who filed the complaint against Lauer or what their allegation specifically said, but one source leaked to Raw Story that it was a staffer who says Lauer sexually assaulted them during last year's Olympic Games in Rio.

"There have been rumors about Matt having affairs with subordinates at NBC for years, but those were believed to be consensual," the insider said. "This incident in Rio was not."

More: NBC Was So Worried About Ratings, They Called Savannah Guthrie to Save the Day

This is a developing story, and more details will undoubtedly come to light. Whether Lauer had other victims remains to be seen, but if his story follows the pattern we've seen play out over and over again in recent months, this news will embolden others to come forward.

A New Survey Reveals Love at First Sight Isn't Just for the Royals

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The internet is all a flutter with news of the world’s most eligible bachelor getting engaged to Meghan Markle. And to be honest, so are we because we have never 'shipped two people so hard before.

More: The Very Best Pictures of Prince Harry Through the Years

When the newly engaged couple made their first post-proposal public appearance, Prince Harry stated that he knew Markle was the one the very first time they met. But how common is this whole love at first sight business outside the world of royals?

Pretty common, actually. According to Match’s Singles in America study,  34 percent of singles (41 percent of men, 29 percent of women) have experienced love at first sight.

Maybe that love wasn’t with a prince who would later propose over a roast chicken, but still, it happens. In fact, single men are more likely than single women to believe in love at first sight (59 percent of men, 49 percent of women). That stat is pretty surprising to us too.

“Love at first sight is relatively easy to explain. Romantic love runs along certain electrical and chemical pathways through the brain, which can be triggered instantly,” said Dr. Helen Fisher, Match’s chief scientific advisor for Match and a biological anthropologist.

“Men fall in love faster, statistically speaking, and have experienced love at first sight more often, probably because they are more visual. It's a basic drive, like thirst and hunger. Food and water keep you alive today; romantic love leads to bonding, mating and sending your DNA into tomorrow. So I'm not surprised that Prince Harry fell in love fast. In fact, poetry around the world talks about love at first sight. Even other creatures experience instant attraction to one another. But cultural factors always play a role as well. He was ready to fall in love. Then, boom: It’s natural.”

More: Reminder: Prince Philip Was Kind of a Babe

So, it’s totally likely we’ll meet our prince and he’ll be in love with us in an instant. It's just that chances are, in our case, it won’t be an actual prince. Oh, well.

The Most Popular Baby Names of 2017 Will Surprise You

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It's 2017, gang, and nothing is what we'd expected. When it comes to popular baby names, it’s out with the new and in with the classics. According to Nameberry, a unique platform devoted to baby-naming and beyond, the most popular boy and girl names have taken their cues from the past.

More: Baby Girl Names With Great Meanings She Can Be Proud Of

Out of 1,000 names submitted this year, Olivia tops the list for girls for the second year in a row. Did you know that Olivia is a Shakespearean name that also means "olive tree" in Latin? Olivia is also the name of two pretty badass women in pop culture who are perpetually fighting the good fight (see: Olivia Benson on Law & Order SVU and Olivia Pope on Scandal... jussayin).

As for the boys, the sleeper hit Atticus — another Latin name — takes the top spot. Atticus is also the name of a noble persona and possibly the most famous fictitious lawyer of all time: Atticus Finch in Harper Lee’s iconic book, To Kill a Mockingbird.

More: Your Favorite Movie Character Could Be Excellent Baby Name Material

While the name Olivia moved from second to first place within a year, Atticus ranked as the 360th most popular name in 2016. Why the massive jump? It's anyone's guess. The name likely got placed back on our radars after Lee’s book, Go Set a Watchman — a To Kill a Mockingbird follow-up — was released in 2015. Or, you know, maybe 2017 parents are simply setting their kids up for a life of fighting racism and standing up for what's right. One can hope.

Other honorable mentions on Nameberry’s 2017 list include Cora, Amelia, Charlotte and Isla for girls. Asher, Jack, Theodore and Jasper make up the rest of the top five for boys.

Does this mean our obsession with weird Game of Thrones baby names has peaked?

Insider Claims Ben Affleck & Lindsay Shookus Are Living Together

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Well that was quick. After only seven months of dating, sources say Ben Affleck has already moved in with his Saturday Night Live producer girlfriend, Lindsay Shookus.

More: 3 Things to Know About Lindsay Shookus, Ben Affleck's Main Squeeze

Well, sort of. Despite reports that the couple was looking at houses together in the Los Angeles area, an insider just told Us Weekly that they "recently" ended up buying an apartment in New York's Upper West Side, where they are "fully living together." Except that Affleck's kids, who he shares with his ex-wife, Jennifer Garner, keep him firmly tied to LA, so we're not entirely sure how this works. According to the source, whenever Affleck is in New York, "he’ll be living there with Lindsay."

More: Jason Momoa Apologizes for the "Truly Tasteless" Rape Joke He Made in 2011

How often he's in New York is the real question now. Affleck seems to be in LA an awful lot, like over Thanksgiving, when he celebrated with Garner, the kids, his mom and his brother, Casey Affleck. Ben Affleck and Garner are co-parenting their three kids, 11-year-old Violet, 8-year-old Seraphina and 5-year-old Samuel, post-divorce, and that arrangement doesn't seem like it'll change anytime soon.

Affleck has also stayed friendly with Garner, and I'd be lying if I said there's no small part of me that's still hoping, just a little, tiny bit, for them to reconcile. Ugh, it's the worst when our favorite celebrity power couples break up.

More: Ben Affleck Didn't Realize Women Were Going Through "Ugly & Disturbing" Things

Still, Affleck and Shookus are clearly happy together, and they seem to be moving things in a more serious direction. What that means for the future of where he'll live — or if he'll just continue splitting time on two opposite sides of the country — remains to be seen.

What Does a Christmas Tree Shortage Mean for You? A Bigger Price Tag

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Santa's not happy, y'all. We might have a national Christmas tree crisis on our hands.

First off, the National Christmas Tree Association is a real thing. (Who knew? We're picturing a sparkly, frosty winter wonderland with desks and a hot chocolate station.) Secondly, the NCTA says the U.S. is facing a tree shortage this holiday season — which might mean a bigger price tag tied to that gorgeous Douglas fir your family's got its eye on.

How can we be short on Christmas trees of all things? Turns out that our country's recession 10 years ago affected Christmas tree farmers, many of whom chose to limit their crops to save money and to keep their farms when fewer people were splurging on trees. “In those years, we were in a recession. Tree sales were down, prices were down, and we weren’t planting as many trees,” NCTA's Doug Hundley told News 12 of Long Island, New York.

More: 8 Travel Items Our Editors Never Leave Home Without

But it takes a Christmas tree about a decade to reach 7 or 8 feet tall, so we're likely to feel the pinch this holiday season when we're tree shopping. The NCTA recommends shopping early (well of course they do, silly, they're the NCTA) to be sure the perfect tree is available for you. But don't be surprised if tree prices seem unusually high. Not an early bird holiday decorator? Hey, no problem. Procrastinators may win out too — plenty of Christmas tree farms drastically lower prices a few days before the 25th.

Unfortunately, the long-term prospect for Christmas trees looks pretty gloomy too. Gary Thomas is a Christmas tree farmer at Winter Tree Farms in Jarrettsville, Maryland. Thomas — also the president of the Maryland Christmas Tree Association — told Fox Business he's struggling to fill orders for retail store owners for their lots.

More: 18 DIY BFF Gifts for the Holidays

“I feel there will be a tight market for trees this year. A lot of the farms that grew trees for the wholesale market to supply the retailers cut back on planting around 10 years ago. This was due to a glut of trees on the market and the growers were losing money on every tree they sold. Now 10 years later we have a tree shortage. The prices are up but that is due to significant higher labor and other costs of doing business such as high insurance costs,” he said.

Thomas continued, "The next generation doesn't want to be a tree farmer, as it’s hard work and it takes eight to 10 years to grow a tree. Our industry is an aging one where the current farmers do not have a family member to take over the business so they are simply slowly going out of the business."

Say it isn't so, Santa!


Why I Don't Care About the New Avengers: Infinity War Trailer at All

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Last weekend, on a rainy November afternoon, some friends suggested going to see a movie. We looked up what was playing in a nearby theater, and they were pretty set on Thor: Ragnarok — that is, until they saw how hard I rolled my eyes. Then their enthusiasm turned to shock at how I could be so uninterested in a movie people have been running out to see.

More: Proof the Avengers Cast Is Exactly Like Their Characters

I'm just gonna say it: I don't care one bit about superhero movies. I think they're super-boring. There's nothing compelling to me about the Marvel or DC Comics or whatever-you-wanna-call-them universes. I've tried to care because so many people I know and love care. But I just can't get myself there.

Sorry, not sorry.

First trailer for The Avengers Infinity War

First trailer for The Avengers Infinity War

So there's a new trailer out for Avengers: Infinity War, and predictably, people are here for it. Vanity Fair published this very geeked out article that honestly reads like gibberish to me. I read it three times and I'm more confused than I was when I started. I get it. If you're into this stuff, that article, with all its specifically nerdy references, is gonna be a hype machine for this new trailer. I can't read to the bottom of the page without my eyes glazing over.

More: Chris Pratt & Chris Evans Are Having a Hilarious Fight on Twitter

And the Avengers franchise is one of the worst of all the superhero franchises. There are just so freaking many of them. Real talk, fam: How do y'all keep track of that many characters? Even director Joe Russo admits that it's a little out of hand.

"You can’t really look back and go, 'Hey, remember the last time that somebody took 12 franchises and blended them together and told the movie with 60 lead characters?'" he told Vanity Fair. "So that’s the challenge, and you have to create your own structure for a story like that."

Sixty lead characters? I have a headache just thinking about trying to sit through this movie and make any sense of it.

More: These 5 Pics of Chris Pratt Surprising Kids as Star-Lord Are Beyond Adorable

To each her own, right? Please, don't @ me.

A Hearty Slow Cooker African Peanut Stew We Guarantee You'll Love

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This vegetarian African stew is full of different textures and flavors that make it hearty and unique. If you're not familiar with African fare, the seasonings may be reminiscent of a Thai or Indian curry thanks to the peanut butter and coconut milk combination, but the tomatoes, ginger, cinnamon, cumin and sweet potato make this dish its own special cuisine.

More: Eat your feelings with these slow cooker comfort foods

The slow cooker is really key here, as it helps all the flavors blend together in a rich, velvety finish. It's a little spicy, so make sure you've made plenty of rice to mitigate the heat and add some extra carbs to the dish.

More: Slow Cooker Sunday: 5-Ingredient (or less!) recipes that make dinner easy

Slow cooker African peanut stew recipe

Serves 4 – 6

Ingredients:

  • 3 – 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves and stems
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 inch or so chunk of fresh ginger, peeled
  • 2 heaping tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or chunky, I used creamy)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne)
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar (light brown is just fine, too)
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • Fresh ground pepper
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can lite coconut milk
  • 2 good-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 large sweet onion, chopped
  • 1 large red bell pepper, or 2 small ones, chopped
  • 1 (15 – 19 ounces) can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained

Directions:

  1. In a blender or food processor add garlic cloves, cilantro, ginger, tomatoes, peanut butter, cumin, cinnamon, ground red pepper and curry powder. Blend until everything is nicely pureed. It will look very thick and pasty.
  2. In the slow cooker, add the garbanzo beans, chopped onions, red bell peppers, and sweet potatoes. Add the peanut sauce mixture, brown sugar and the coconut milk and gently stir to incorporate all of the ingredients.
  3. Turn the slow cooker on low and cook for six to eight hours Serve with rice and top with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions.

10 DIY Tips We Learned from Watching The Weekender Season 3

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If you're tired of endlessly pinning DIY ideas only to let them collect dust on your home improvement board, you should watch The Weekender — Lowe's original digital DIY series that shows people how to transform spaces in a weekend. DIY queen Monica Mangin's real-life makeover series will give you the confidence you need to finally tackle a few projects of your own.

As you begin your journey toward DIY mastery, you're sure to pick up a few new-to-you pointers while watching The Weekender. Case in point? The following super-clever (not to mention crafty) home improvement tips we've already learned from Season 3.

1. Power tools are your friend

Despite the fact that husband-and-wife team Rob Czar and Corinne Leigh have created an entire career out of DIY'ing everything under the sun on their YouTube channel, Threadbanger, even Rob was hesitant to use a chop saw in Episode 1. Yes, power tools are intimidating — but as it becomes readily apparent from the moment Rob learns to wield that chop saw, they are a useful resource for the home DIY'er. Mastering a few of Mangin's favorite power tools could help you reach weekend warrior status sooner rather than later.

2. A little color can go a long way

It can be tricky to find a good compromise between bright white paint that opens up a room and the intense color so many of us crave. Threadbanger's Rob and Corinne wanted a trendy minimalist aesthetic in the master bedroom of their new home while incorporating an interesting hue or two. Mangin came up with a clever solution by using white for the majority of the bedroom walls but by painting a rectangle of jewel-tone green on one wall as an accent-slash-art-feature.

3. The right painter’s tape can make life much easier

Take it from someone who has made this messy mistake before — just "winging it" when it comes to painting trim or alternating paint colors in a space is a bad idea. And in Episode 1, Mangin reveals there's a new painter's tape in town: 3M Platinum Painters Tape. Unlike typical paper-y painters tapes, this "plastic-y" version (in Mangin's words) tears cleanly every time and prevents unsightly bleeding.

4. Camera film can be used to create faux stained glass

File this under insanely clever things we never would have thought of otherwise. By cutting privacy window films and colored camera "films" to size, Mangin creates a cool faux stained-glass feature in the panes of a closet door. Yes, please!

5. Closet organizers are just begging to be used as office supply storage

If your mail is threatening to take over your house and hold you hostage, look no further than a few closet organizers. You can repurpose everything from hanging shoe holders to clothing separators by turning them into smart, clutter-free office storage. Need deets? See Episode 2.

6. You can paint wood paneling… & shouldn't be afraid to, either

It can be daunting when you purchase a home that has circa '70s wood paneling. Can you even paint that stuff? Mangin proves that you not only can, but also that doing so can make a dramatic difference in your space. The key is completing the bulk of the painting with a roller and then going back over the grooves with a brush.

7. A simple sawhorse can make a killer desk

Let's be real. Desks can be exorbitantly expensive. And the ones that aren't, well, you're lucky if they can support the weight of your laptop without buckling. So what's a person in need of a desk to do? Think like Mangin and grab a wooden sawhorse. Pop that sucker underneath a wood slab for a top, and — voila! — you've got a sturdy desk.

8. Doormats can be used to create a cat-scratch-friendly headboard

This may be the most genius thing we’ve ever seen. While creating a guest room typically inhabited by cats, Mangin builds a headboard frame to hold three artful doormats. The playful print of the doormats keeps the headboard aesthetically appealing, while the texture gives kitties an ideal spot to extend their claws. The whole setup is so gosh-darn cute, guests would never suspect the headboard was crafted as a casual cat-scratching zone.

9. Old suitcases serve as purr-fect cat beds

Seriously, if you have cats, you'd be remiss not to watch Episode 4. In addition to underscoring the point that you can never make too many cat puns, Mangin takes a thrifted suitcase and turns it into cat "bunks." Bonus? She also transforms an old steamer trunk into an incognito litter box.

10. It’s OK to make mistakes!

Don't let fear of messing up keep you from tackling home projects. As Mangin so wonderfully puts it, "In DIY, it kind of comes with the territory. You try, fail, learn from your failures and then succeed… hopefully." After all, part of the fun of DIY'ing is building up your home blooper reel.

This post was sponsored by Lowe's.

The Real Reason Margot Robbie Is Often Seen Without Her Wedding Ring

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The fact that Margot Robbie is rarely seen wearing her wedding ring has nothing to do with the state of her marriage, as much as the tabloids would probably like it to. Nope, Robbie and her husband, Tom Ackerley, are perfectly happy, and she has a perfectly understandable reason for leaving her ring off on most days.

More: Margot Robbie Is Completely Unrecognizable in Queen Elizabeth Costume

"Everyone's freaking out over that," she told reporters on the red carpet at the Gotham Awards. "When I'm at work, you can't wear a wedding ring in costume. If your character's not married, it's gonna look really weird if you have a wedding ring on. There is nothing more to it — I simply cannot wear it when I am in costume."

And so she only wears it on weekends. That makes perfect sense, if you think about it. Can we all calm down about Robbie's marriage now?

More: We're Seeing a Not-So-Hidden Message in Margot Robbie's Wedding Photo

Because it sounds like she and Ackerley are really enjoying married life. After having a secret, super-private ceremony in Robbie's native Australia last year, they've just been settling into the routine of living together, something they've had plenty of practice at.

"My husband and I were roommates before we were even dating, so I’m kind of living with my roommate and it’s awesome," Robbie told Us Weekly earlier this year. One thing has definitely changed since they tied the knot, though. "We lived with a bunch of people and now we’re just living [as] the two of us, so we feel very grown up now."

More: 7 Things to Know (and Love) About Margot Robbie's Husband, Tom Ackerley

Robbie and Ackerley have always kept their relationship as private as possible, but that's no reason to think they're on the rocks, even if Robbie's not wearing her ring.

How Mutual Masturbation Can Help Create Intimacy & Make Sex Better

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Ah, masturbation. Its personal touch reverberates behind our bedroom doors. Even the mention of the act is taboo. It’s private. It’s one-on-one. It’s not to be shared with others. Or is it?

The very idea that masturbation is a separate act for two individual people to enjoy, quite often alone, is an antiquated sexual concept. Kill two birds with one stone — masturbate together.

More: 6 reasons masturbating with your partner can be hotter than sex

Depending on you and your partner, mutual masturbation can be discussed beforehand or a spontaneous moment. If a dialogue is what makes you feel comfortable, discuss what will turn you and your partner on during the scene. Some questions to include in the conversation can be:

  • Where will you be seated?
  • Do you prefer to lie down?
  • Are you comfortable with your partner watching you?
  • Will language and instructions be used during the scene?

If you choose to be spontaneous, remember that consent is No. 1. You and your partner can begin by mutually masturbating and end with intercourse or vice versa. Experiment with what makes you feel good together and separate. Through spontaneity, you may discover new ways to touch, new methods of intimacy and include language in the scene.

What’s even more exciting about mutual masturbation is that your partner can help. While you’re touching yourself, your partner can kiss you or massage other areas of your body if you aren’t comfortable with zero contact whatsoever.

Once you’ve decided your plan of action, or lack thereof, begin to explore your own body. While this is a way to intimately connect to your partner on a deeper level, it is also a method of discovering your own pleasure points and how to get there. Slowly working your way down your own body can create a frenzied sensation around your erogenous zones. Before moving toward any obvious areas, make sure to take it easy, take it slow and circle areas of sensitivity. Exploring your breasts, for example, can also look appealing to your partner, who is watching you revel in your own skin.

Introduce more playfulness by incorporating toys into the scene. If you have a vagina, using a small vibrator on your clitoris before entering can be a great way to tease yourself as well as your partner.

More: Take your masturbation skill level up a notch tonight

Your position should be thought out before entering the mutual masturbation scene. If you’re lying down, you are able to roll over and switch positions on a bed — think masturbating while in doggy style — while your partner continues to touch themselves on a chair or on the opposite side of the bed. Moreover, the tension between the two of you will begin to build as you turn each other, and yourselves, on throughout the duration of the moment.

OK, so what happens when you’re both reaching climax and want to experience it together? This will involve a bit of communicating, either with oohs and aahs or literal language. Erase any pressures of having an orgasm at the same time — this isn’t a race. Don’t set these expectations too high because the chances of you both having an orgasm instantly, together, is slim, although it is possible (and cheers if you can accomplish it). Once one of you climaxes, don’t leave the scene instantly. Keep building intensity for yourself or for your partner.

While mutual masturbation is still a separate act, there is no reason not to focus on one another's bodies. Fantasy role-playing, kissing, eye contact and taking turns can all be incorporated into your scene. Additional props, like ice cubes and toys, and positions can be included in future scenarios once you feel more comfortable.

More: 31 days of orgasms: The masturbation challenge

Don’t think of mutual masturbation as a way to turn yourself on. Think: together but separate. It’s a joint act where connectedness is still vital to a successful and intimate outcome. Let the touching commence!

By S. Nicole Lane

8 Signs That Your Dog Is Stressed Out

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As your pet's owner, it can sometimes feel like you have an almost psychic connection with your pet. You have a sense of what they want (usually food or to pee or sometimes to cuddle) and they know how to communicate what they want from you (my dog will use her paw or muzzle to direct my hand on her back as if to say, "Pet me!") 

That's why changes in their behavior can be disconcerting. If you've just encountered a stressful situation or your pet is around more changes than normal, here are some signs they may be experiencing some stress or anxiety.

1. Excessive shedding

All dogs seem to shed, but have you ever noticed how much hair can come off when your dog is stressed? According to PetCareRX, it's one of the most easily recognizable signs your pup is feeling a bit anxious. You might see this happen in the veterinarian's office as you pet your dog in the exam room and the hair covers your hands and the floor.

Excessive shedding due to stress can also be triggered by big life changes at home, like moving, adopting another pet or a family member moving out.

2. Licking of the nose & lips

Dogs use their bodies to convey all sorts of emotion they can't verbalize. According to Service Dog Central, if your dog starts excessively licking their mouth or nose, this is probably a sign they are feeling a bit stressed.

More: When does dog anxiety become a serious problem?

3. Yawning

It seems odd that yawning would be considered a sign of stress — wouldn't it just be a sign of tiredness? But the stress yawn is usually seen in conjunction with other behaviors, such as avoidance or pinned ears.

4. Panting

Dogs generally pant to cool themselves down when it's hot or they've been exercising. If your dog is panting for no apparent reason, possibly with her ears pinned back and low, this can be a sign of stress. Be careful if the dog suddenly stops panting and closes his mouth, as he may be escalating toward biting.

More: 6 Signs your dog desperately needs obedience training

5. Destructive behaviors

Especially in the more aggressive breeds, dogs may try to alleviate stress by chewing or biting furniture (or you!) or even by destructive biting or licking of her own body. Try to examine the circumstances that increase the behaviors, such as being left alone or when other animals are present.

6. Avoidance

According to VCA Hospitals, this is another telltale sign of stress. There are many reasons your dog may show avoidance, whether it's avoiding other dogs or people. Tail tucked, avoiding eye contact, turning away — these are all ways your dog shows you he is uncomfortable. It's important to remember that if your dog is avoiding a situation that makes him uncomfortable, this is better than showing aggression and it's best to respect this message.

More: All of your dog's body language finally explained (INFOGRAPHIC)

7. Illness

Does your dog exhibit signs of stress with physical symptoms? Loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, skin problems or allergies can all be signs of stress in man's best friend. If any of these physical symptoms don't have an obvious cause, stress could be your prime suspect, but you need to check in with your vet to make sure you catch any serious medical conditions.

8. Barking

Does your dog howl or bark a lot? Excessive barking, whether inside or outside the house, can be a sign of anxiety. Try to find a pattern to the barking to determine the cause of the anxiety. Does it happen when you're gone? When strangers come to the door?

How to help your dog

Recognizing your dog is experiencing stress is a step in the right direction — but now you need to find ways to help him cope with his anxiety. I asked my vet for some tips on keeping my dog's life as stress-free as possible. Here are some of the ideas my vet shared.

  • Keep things as routine as possible: Routine is important for dogs, just like it is for young children. They suffer less stress when they know their routine, from where they sleep to what time of day they go for a walk or eat.
  • Prevent stressful situations: If you know, for example, your dog doesn't do well in crowded situations, don't walk him on a busy recreation trail. If your dog is stressed when you aren't home, crate training might bring him some comfort.
  • Exercise often: Exercise can be a great stress-reliever for your dog as long as it's kept fun and relaxing. Repetitive games of fetch at the dog park can actually cause stress in some dogs, so make sure you find the right balance.
  • Spend more time together: If you can, spend more time with your dog to reduce stress. Working out in the garage? Bring your furry friend out there with you. He craves being near you and it's good for his soul (and yours).
  • Rules: Dogs experience less stress when they know what's expected of them. Set your house rules and be firm yet gentle about any disobedience. Your dog wants to please you, but cannot possibly succeed if the rules keep changing.

By working with your dog and setting clear boundaries, you can usually pinpoint the sources of his stress and work with him to help him live a less anxiety-ridden life.

A version of this article was originally published in December 2013.

A Gift Guide for When Someone You Love Has a Serious Illness

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Nothing quite prepares you for when you find out someone you love is ill. One of the first things we're often called to do is find a way to help, but rarely do we know exactly what to do. Helping can come with all kinds of complications — we don't want to step on toes; we don't want to say the wrong things or to pressure a friend into receiving a gift they don't want or to bother them at a vulnerable moment.

And yet doing something does matter. Your friend is likely scared, confused and unsure of what to do themselves, and even if you've offered your help, they're unlikely to know what to ask for, even if they had the confidence to actually ask.

Most people believe that you need to physically be present in order to be helpful, but the truth of the matter is sometimes your friend will want nothing more than to be left alone. Rather than running to be by their side, here are some ideas for items and services they will actually need and will be super-grateful to have received; and they will appreciate having a friend in their lives that is thoughtful and resourceful.

More: Having Breast Cancer at 32 Put Me In Control of My Body

Give ‘em something to binge on

If your friend has been diagnosed with something that will require a lengthy treatment or a long recovery time, there’s a good chance they will be spending a lot of time inside. Like, a lot. Streaming service to the rescue! You can gift a Netflix subscription pretty easily these days via Amazon or find gift cards at most Target stores. They can invite you over to binge on their favorite or maybe they can just rest with their TV friends. Clear eyes, full hearts, keep streaming.

Your food’s here

Most people think a home-cooked meal is just what the doctor ordered, but if your friend is going through an illness that requires a medication like chemotherapy, it’s likely their tastes will change and they will have aversions to many foods. So before you break out the sheet pan to cook a lasagna the size of your head, consider a delivery service.

While meal subscription deliveries are a nice idea, your friend will likely be too tired to lift the box it comes in, much less chop an onion. Most cities throughout the U.S. now have options like Postmates or Instacart, where your friend can order from a myriad of restaurants that will fit their food cravings, and the best part: No dishes required!

More: Why Losing Your Hair During Chemo May Soon Be a Thing of the Past

Transportation gift card

Not sure if you’ve noticed, but we are all super-busy these days. From work responsibilities to whatever activities your child might be involved in, there’s barely time to shuttle yourself to and from work, let alone carve out three hours to bring your friend to their numerous doctors appointments and follow-ups, although you will want to.

News flash: Your friend knows this and will most likely feel bad asking for assistance. Rather than everyone feeling guilty about it, why not gift your friend a ride-sharing service. Lyft gift cards do not expire, and you can set the amount you want to give, so if your friend has one surgeon uptown and one downtown, they’re covered, and you know they will always have a ride.

*Knock, knock* Housekeeping!

Let’s be honest here: No one likes to clean. It doesn’t matter if you have a 450-square-foot studio or a three-bedroom house; chasing dust bunnies and folding laundry is usually last on our list of things to do. Add a medical complication on top of that and that vacuum is not going to be touched for quite some time. A quick online geo search will pull up several housekeeping services that you can give to someone. These services can bring everything needed to tidy up your friend’s house, allowing them to focus only on getting better, which can be a full-time job in itself.

More: 5 Ways to Give Your Loved Ones the Gift of Self-Care

This is a Job for the Babysitter’s Club!

In news that is shocking to no one: Having children in any city or town is expensive. The simple task of going out for dinner can add at least another $50 onto your night out (if not more) when you factor in having a babysitter that you trust staying with your children.

While dealing with an illness is nowhere near as relaxing as a night out on the town, your friend will still need someone to look after their children. Waiting rooms are typically soulless places, void of children’s entertainment, so it’s best they leave the kids at home. If your friend already has someone they trust, why not reach out and let them know that you’ll be footing their bill for a while? If they don’t, reach out to your network and see who the beloved teen on the block is. Your friend will be relieved that this is one to-do they can check off their never-ending list.

The bottom line is that we cannot be everywhere at once, even though we want to be. Helping a friend navigate an illness doesn’t always mean being by their side 24 hours a day. A simple gesture or giving a service that will make their life easier in this scary time will always be appreciated and welcomed; it’s always comforting to know they aren’t alone.

A version of this article was originally published in August 2017.


Heart Attack Symptoms in Women Are Not What You'd Expect

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When you think of a heart attack, the image that comes to mind is likely a person clutching at their chest or feeling numbness in their left arm. Until recently, doctors expected symptoms were generally similar for men and women. But that isn't true. A 2003 National Institutes of Health study found that just 30 percent of the 515 women surveyed had any kind of chest discomfort while they experienced a heart attack.

It seems that heart attack symptoms for women can be distressingly more subtle. Here are the heart attack symptoms women need to take seriously.

More: 8 Ways to prevent a heart attack

Heart attack symptoms in women

Image: Terese Condella/SheKnows

1. Extreme fatigue

In the NIH study, "unusual fatigue" was reported by 70 percent of the women in the sample. This tiredness can creep up days or weeks before the actual attack.

2. Sleep disturbance

If you aren't sleeping well at night, this could be a forewarning. The NIH found that 48 percent of the women reported sleep disturbance as a symptom prior to their heart attacks.

3. Back, neck or jaw pain

Instead of an obvious chest pain, we may experience pain in the jaw, neck or lower or upper back. WebMD notes, "The pain can be gradual or sudden, and it may wax and wane before becoming intense. If you're asleep, it may wake you up."

More: 5 Ways to cut your heart disease risk — right now

4. Indigestion

Heart failure can cause abdominal swelling, which can show up as indigestion, nausea, lack of appetite and vomiting. In the NIH study, 39 percent of women reported these symptoms.

5. Flu-like symptoms

According to Women's Heart Foundation, 71 percent of women report having flu-like symptoms leading up to more acute heart attack symptoms.

6. Anxiety

Anxiety is a way of life for most Americans in today's society. But if you notice unusual bouts of stress or feelings of "impending doom," take a minute to breathe. Your anxiety may be trying to tell you something. Thirty-five percent of women in the NIH study reported feelings of anxiety during their heart attack.

Heart attack symptoms

Image: Terese Condella/SheKnows

A version of this article was originally published in December 2016.

Bill Murray Played a Sexual Predator in Ghostbusters, & We Just Realized It

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If you need proof that Hollywood has been painfully willing to accept a culture of sexual assault and harassment as the norm for all too long, you need look no further than Ghostbusters. Yes, really.

More: Bill Murray Pitches in to Help a Couple Announce Pregnancy at a Cubs Game

In real life, Bill Murray is still one of Hollywood's good guys. No allegations have been levied against him, and here's hoping it stays that way. But Murray's slate isn't perfectly clean. When he starred in Ghostbusters, he played a character who was definitely a sexual predator, and no one ever batted an eyelash at his clearly sleazy on-screen behavior. It was just accepted because that's how normalized it was.

Cracked pointed this all out in a depressingly poignant article that outlines all the ways we know Murray's character, Dr. Venkman, was the worst. There's the way he cons his way into Dana's apartment, finds out she's single and lives alone, and then immediately starts in with sexually suggestive jokes. There's the way he refuses to take no for an answer and uses her disinterest as some kind of encouragement to pursue her even harder.

More: Bill Murray Might Be the Most Elusive Man in Hollywood

And then there's the most damning piece of evidence of all: When he goes to Dana's apartment and finds her possessed, not having had any prior knowledge she would be the host to a demon spirit, he calls the other Ghostbusters to inform them that he knocked her out with 300 cc's of Thorazine, which is enough date rape drug to kill multiple women that he just happened to have on him when he went to Dana's apartment. There is no explanation for this that isn't horrifying.

As Cracked also points out, Murray's character does not learn anything or change his ways, but still gets the girl at the end of the movie, reinforcing the belief that sexually predatory behavior is to be expected in men, and women need to overlook it if they want to land themselves a date. This has all been in plain sight since Ghostbusters was released in 1984. It just took today's landscape of accountability for sexual misconduct to make us sit up and notice it.

More: If Bill Murray Were Your Dad

If that's not evidence that change in Hollywood is long, long overdue, I don't know what is.

How Kim Kardashian West Bribes North to Go to School

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Recently, Kim Kardashian West spoke with Us Weekly, and the interview was much ado about beauty. We learned that Kardashian West's father, famed attorney Robert Kardashian, is responsible for her obsession with makeup and that mom Kris Jenner has had the same facialist since she was 17 years old (um, was everyone getting facials at 17 without us?). But it was Kardashian West's daughter, 4-year-old North West, who stole the interview.

Kardashian West explained that sometimes, getting little Northie in the school spirit can be a chore. Her solution? Bribery, of course. Makeup bribery, that is.

“She’s such a girlie girl. She loves all of my products. She loves the glosses,” she told Us. “She’s just, she loves makeup. Sometimes I have to bribe her to go to school and be like, 'Do you want to put on some makeup?’ and she’ll say, 'Okay.'”

More: Is Kim Kardashian West Considering Surrogacy as an Option for a Third Child?

Though considering North’s age — and how many tots have a tendency to smear makeup everywhere — Kardashian West added a sensible caveat: Said bribery is all make-believe.

“I’ll put on fake makeup," she explains. "And she won’t know, because she’s not looking in the mirror, but she thinks it’s all on her face, and we’ll be driving to school, and she’ll say, 'Mom, do I still have it on?' And I’m like, 'Yes, you sure do,'" she said.

Mama Kimmy’s KKW makeup brand is a total cash cow, BTW. Earlier this year, her new line sold out in three hours and earned her $14 million dollars. With so much access, how could North not be inspired? Earlier this month, Kardashian West explained that North has already turned into quite the makeup maven herself.

More: The Kardashian Posse Throws a Moana-Themed Birthday Party for Cousins North & Penelope

“The other day, it was so funny," Kardashian West recounted. "My daughter watches so many YouTube tutorials and videos. She was unboxing the My Little Pony Colourpop collection, and I thought to myself, ‘I wish I was recording this’ because her reaction was so funny. And then she did makeup on the My Little Pony that they gave and she said, ‘Mom, I want to do a YouTube video,’” Kardashian West told WWD (also as reported by People).

However, North’s papa wasn’t feeling that idea; Kanye West put the kibosh on kiddo's plans of YouTube stardom... for now.

Tom Colicchio Is Not a Fan of 'Fancy Food' at Home

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Tom Colicchio loves food, but he's not defined by it. While most of you may associate his name with his role as one of the primary judges on Bravo's Top Chef, Colicchio's culinary skills and devotion to the art of good food stretch way beyond a reality TV competition show. The James Beard-feted chef owns restaurants in New York City and Los Angeles. He's the author of multiple cookbooks and he occasionally pops up on TV shows like HBO's Treme, The SImpsons and even in culinary documentaries like 2013's A Place at the Table.

More: Gordon Ramsay's Plane Food Is Expanding to More Airports Worldwide

With Colicchio's schedule looking somewhat less hectic these days with his Top Chef duties on hiatus, he found time to sit down with SheKnows and talk to us about his day-to-day routine and how he keeps his body and mind as healthy as possible. Whether it's finding time to connect at the dinner table with his wife, Lori Silverbush, and their three sons or taking a moment to find his Zen spot in his garden as the sun comes up, Colicchio was able to let us into his world in this fun interview.

SheKnows: What's your go-to healthy breakfast?

Tom Colicchio: Often, I'm eating on the run. Granola, some yogurt, some fruit, lots of coffee [laughs]. But you know, I mix it up. It could be a poached egg over some grains with avocado. There's no one particular go-to. But it's important: Breakfast really starts your day with nutrition. So yeah, it could start with a lot of things — it could even be a sandwich too!

SK: What's your favorite healthy snack? What about snacks you make for your sons?

TC: With my kids, we try to keep the sweets away. They snack on carrots, cucumbers, red peppers, things like that. There's an occasional granola bar and things like that, maybe some raisins for something sweet. But we try to have them eat healthy food.

SK: What's your best tip to working parents for having a healthy work-life balance?

TC: Keep it simple. It's not about how fancy you can make your food; it's about how nutritional you can make your food. It's about how delicious you can make it as well. I think too often people get wrapped up in watching some TV shows and watching this beautiful food that's highly decorated and looks really fancy — save that for TV. Really, at home, it's about getting good, nutritious food on the table quickly and really spending time at the table with your family as opposed to trying to run around making fancy food.

SK: How do you balance alone time for yourself, time with Lori and quality time with Luka, Mateo and Dante?

TC: I try to get home for dinner so we have that time at the table. I'll typically go back to work after that. I just try to find that time to be together with the family. I think that's important, and I think often that can happen around a dinner table. We also find that if you're just home with your spouse and you're talking about your day (or with the kids), ask them about their day. Often, you get blank stares, but I think just encouraging them to talk about things they care about so that they think they have some importance. I think that's where we really get that give and take and that they feel some control over that getting-together process.

More: 27 Celebrities on Their Favorite Thanksgiving Dishes

SK: What would you say is your biggest day-to-day challenge as a dad?

TC: [Laughs] I have two young ones — they're 6 and 8 — so trying to keep them from killing each other is the big challenge. They like to go all out (they call it "battling") and it's all in good fun, but usually ends up with somebody getting hurt. It's trying to refocus their energy, not on each other and things that they're doing. But that's kind of it, really: just keeping them safe and little things like trying to find time in a busy day to be together.

More: Which Starbucks Holiday Drink You Should Order Based on Your Zodiac Sign

SK: As your sons grow up, how do you see your career and your lifestyle changing? How will your goals as a parent change?

TC: I'm a little further out of my career now, so I can make my own schedule on my own time. If there's a school activity, I can get there. I have a 24-year-old as well, and it was early in my career and I couldn't always get to those things [of his]. So the second time around, it was a little easier because I have a little more control over my schedule. But the challenges are making sure that [my kids] get their homework done, making sure they're happy, making sure they feel safe, making sure that they feel heard, making sure that they feel good about themselves. Kids, just like adults, can really get ahead of themselves, and I think it's really important to listen to what they're saying and try to understand them.

SK: Do you meditate, journal or have any other sort of emotional wellness routine?

TC: You know, I started meditating recently! I use one of the apps and its kind of neat. I'll find that a lot of things I do in my everyday life are meditative. I try to fish a lot. I garden. I'm out in the garden at 6:00 every morning while everyone is waking up and it's kind of quiet time. I don't feel rushed or anxious, where in my everyday life, I'm anxious because I have to go from meeting to meeting or rush to a restaurant. So when I'm in the garden, I just kind of zone out and really just find a good pace. I find that digging in the dirt is really helpful. Finding those things that connect you to the Earth, connect you to the environment, I think that's really helpful.

SK: What's your favorite date-night (or day) activity?

TC: Movies! My wife's a filmmaker and we like to get out to a movie every now and then. It's becoming much more difficult these days. Sundays are Game of Thrones days. It's a great date night; it's our favorite. We try to find time for date night and often we have good intentions, but then it's like, "Are you tired? Let's kinda hang out," [laughs].

Could Ann Curry Return to NBC Now That Matt Lauer's Out?

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The news of Matt Lauer's ousting from NBC News early on Wednesday, Nov. 29 has sent shockwaves through the journalism community as well as the rest of the world. Lauer was fired after working for more than 20 years with NBC and primarily Today. Allegations of sexual misconduct ran rampant in reports published on Wednesday, including one from Variety, which provided details of Lauer's alleged improper behavior.

More: Matt Lauer Fired From NBC News Following Sexual Misconduct Allegations

In the wake of these allegations, a portion of the conversation has become devoted to the treatment of beloved former Today anchor Ann Curry. For those who may not recall, Curry was quietly let go from her position on Today in 2012, and it was rumored that Curry's fraught working relationship with Lauer was the true reason behind her allegedly being pushed out, leaving Lauer to benefit.

Curry's tearful final sign-off has given way to her keeping a relatively low profile in recent years, although you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn't think of her warmly when her name is mentioned (seriously, who the heck doesn't love Ann Curry?). That fondness and love for Curry gave way to a trending phrase on Twitter, "Somewhere Ann Curry," which involved numerous Twitters folks joking (in a rather feisty, snarky tone, mind you) about what Curry was doing when she theoretically heard the news about Lauer's firing.

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More: Uma Thurman Is Thankful for a Lot of Things, but Not Harvey Weinstein

People magazine managed to get a little from Curry on Lauer's firing, with her saying that she's "still processing" the news. Curry then managed to turn her remarks toward the women who allegedly fell victim to Lauer's unwanted and sexually aggressive behavior. "Those women need to keep their jobs, and all women need to be able to work, to be able to thrive, without fear. This kind of behavior exists across industries, and it is so long overdue for it to stop. This is a moment when we all need to be a beacon of light for those women, for all women, and for ourselves.”

More: Gayle King Stands With the Women Who Accuse Charlie Rose of Sexual Harassment

There's no reason to think Curry would come back to Today, but the whole story makes you hope for at least something good to come of it. It would surely be good to have Curry back with us every morning because, again, who doesn't love Ann Curry? But for now, that's all we can do: hope without a reason to hope that we see more of her in the future.

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