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David Spade Reacts to Sister-in-Law Kate Spade's Death

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It’s difficult to imagine what the family of Kate Spade must be going through right now, but the late designer’s brother-in-law, David Spade, has broken his silence and captured what we imagine to be the prevailing sentiment: “I still can’t believe it.”

More: Designer Kate Spade Leaves Behind a Loving Family & Fashion Legacy

The actor took to both Twitter and Instagram to pay tribute to Kate. The two were connected through her marriage to his brother, Andy Spade.

“Fuzzy picture but I love it. Kate and I during Christmas family photos. We had so much fun that day,” David shared on Instagram. “She was so sharp and quick on her feet. She could make me laugh so hard. I still can’t believe it.”

David Spade 1

David Spade 1

On Twitter, David’s affection for Kate similarly shone through. “Katy at my book signing. I love this pic of her. So pretty. I don’t think everyone knew how fucking funny she was … It’s a rough world out there people. Try to hang on,” he captioned a sweet photo of Kate smiling at him.

David Spade 2

David Spade 2

The news broke yesterday that Spade was found dead on Tuesday in her Park Avenue apartment of an apparent suicide. In addition to David’s response, the family issued a statement, saying, “We are all devastated by today’s tragedy. We loved Kate dearly and will miss her terribly. We would ask that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this very difficult time.”

Reta Saffo also told the Daily News, “I’d flown out to Napa and NYC several times in the past 3-4 years to help her get the treatment she needed (inpatient hospitalization). She was always a very excitable little girl and I felt all the stress/pressure of her brand (KS) may have flipped the switch where she eventually became full-on manic depressive,” Saffo wrote in an email to the outlet.

More: Selma Blair Opens Up About Managing Depression

Kate is survived by her husband, Andy, who was said to be living in an apartment nearby, and the couple’s 13-year-old daughter, Frances Beatrix.

The World Health Organization estimates that as many as 300 million people globally experience depression.

If you're considering suicide or fear you may become suicidal, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24-7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you're worried about someone you love, visit SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.


KFC May Be Adding Vegetarian Fried ‘Chicken’ Soon

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Will KFC go vegetarian? All indicators show that it is indeed in the works (but don’t worry; the chicken will still be there too).

More: 17 Meatless Recipes Even Non-Vegetarians Will Love

KFC's vegetarian spin on fried chicken is in the planning stages in the United Kingdom, where they are working to create a meatless version of their famous fried chicken.

"Development of the [vegetarian fried chicken] recipe is still in its very early stages ... and so the options we’re exploring in our kitchen are still top secret,” a KFC rep recently told FoodBeast.

The new vegetarian fried chicken is expected to enter the menu in the U.K. in 2019, and we can only hope it does so well there it’ll be available here soon as well. I mean, can you imagine how much easier road trips will now be for vegetarians?

More: 23 vegetarian wedding appetizers good enough to attract crashers

Europe has often led the way with fast-food chains offering vegetarian and vegan items — such as the vegan burger at McDonald’s, which hit Sweden and Finland first. A meatless version of fried chicken that still contains that special blend of herbs and spices? That could be delicious and also open up KFC to a wider audience. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the U.S. will jump on this new plant-based trend.

We still don't know what the fried "chicken" will be made of, but it will most likely be some sort of soy product that is coated and fried the same way KFC's real chicken is prepared. As for how it tastes, only time will tell, but we're so ready to give this a try.

A Look Inside Paige Davis' Fridge

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You probably know Paige Davis as a home-renovation expert. As the host of TLC's Trading Spaces, there's no doubt Davis is the queen of DIY. But did you know she also happens to be an expert when it comes to matzo ball soup? Neither did I.

It turns out Paige Davis isn't exactly a novice in the kitchen. We recently spoke with Davis about all things food. Davis gave us a look inside her fridge, shared some of her favorite recipes and even told us which foods she absolutely can't stand.

SheKnows: Tell us a little bit about what’s in your fridge. How about your pantry?

Paige Davis: My husband is a huge fan of Red Bull and has at least 4 to 5 a day, so I have to make sure we always have them in stock. He also loves tomatoes, which are almost impossible to keep in stock because he eats them so fast. They are his favorite food.

In my pantry, I always have nuts or some sort of bar to grab on the go, but mostly, my pantry has club soda and tonic.

SK: What’s your go-to healthy snack?

PD: Nuts.

More: Paige Davis Reveals the One Home Decor Style She Can't Stand

SK: How do you keep your kitchen organized?

PD: I have a refrigerator with a clear front door! Seriously, where does one put condiments and salad dressing? Because you can see directly inside it’s as important to me to keep my fridge as organized as the rest of my kitchen and apartment. I tend to keep the less aesthetically appealing items hidden in the drawers or in a basket.

One of my favorite things is the milk glass-covered dish where I can store a partially cut onion or pepper or whatever. And I love my porcelain egg holder.

I’m all about making small updates here and there, too, to keep my kitchen looking current, whether it’s changing up the faucet or even touching up the paint. It’s these small projects that really make a difference in the look of your kitchen and keep things fresh and on trend. I’ve been loving brass recently, so I’ve been trying to swap out some things here and there to incorporate it. I also touched up the paint in the dining area that’s part of my kitchen. That one update made me feel like I had a brand new space. I made sure to use ScotchBlue Painter’s Tape to protect the baseboards and trim and my cabinets. There’s nothing that looks less neat than a messy paint job.

SK: Can you give us an example of one of your favorite weeknight meals?

PD: Sushi, Chinese, Indian... whatever we think has the fastest delivery time.

SK: What would you consider the ultimate comfort food?

PD: I love nothing more than a good slice of New York pizza!

SK: Everyone has a signature dish that they can make really well. What’s yours?

PD: Matzo ball soup — I make it better than your bubby.

More: Low-Carb Bowls that Make the Perfect Lazy Lunch

SK: Any foods you absolutely can’t stand?

PD: I happen to detest three things that most people love: black pepper, rosemary and lavender... oh and lima beans!

SK: Any dishes you’re excited to try this summer?

PD: There’s a cauliflower dip that I’m hoping to get the time in this summer to make.

SK: What’s your favorite cocktail?

PD: Gin martini.

SK: We have to ask, red or white wine?

PD:  Red.

SK: Do you like to entertain? If so, do you have any dishes you like to make for big crowds?

PD: Yes! Marsala mushroom pasta is perfect for a big crowd.

If you would like to try a marsala mushroom pasta similar to Davis' favorite crowd-pleasing meal, we recommend this delicious recipe from Smitten Kitchen.

How Common Is Urinary Incontinence After Childbirth?

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Nearly 50 percent of all women experience some level of urinary incontinence within the first year after giving birth, according to the Natural Childbirth Association (NCT). Those who had a vaginal birth were more likely to experience urinary incontinence postpartum compared to women who had C-sections.

And while stress urinary incontinence (SUI) was the most prevalent, according to a study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology, some women experience urge urinary incontinence (UUI) or the sudden and unstoppable loss of urine, meaning your sense of urgency is increased, according to the National Association for Continence.

All this is to say that when you have to go, you have to go.

Heather Cullnan, 32, has two children and experiences SUI, meaning she has bladder leakage mostly when she sneezes or coughs. “Luckily, it did not and does not impact my daily life,” Cullnan said.

In many cases, the resulting damage of childbirth repairs itself over time and women do not develop long-lasting incontinence. According to OBGYN UCLA Health, only about 5 percent of women who experience incontinence during pregnancy will still experience SUI a year after delivery.

But for those who do find themselves experiencing some bladder leakage during something as small as a laugh, cough or jumping jack, there are ways to strengthen your muscles in an attempt to gain more control over your pelvic floor.

“I started doing Pilates about one year after having my oldest,” Cullnan said. “This, along with exercises that help to repair diastasis recti [abdominal separation], incorporates kegel exercises. Pilates has taught me how important it is to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.”

The most common cause of urinary incontinence related to pregnancy is weak pelvic floor muscles — the muscles that span the bottom of the pelvis and support the uterus and help control the bladder and bowel, according to the NCT. So, doing exercises like kegels during pregnancy can help strengthen those very muscles and has been shown to decrease incontinence during pregnancy and right after delivery, according to OBGYN UCLA Health.

When it comes to urinary incontinence and pregnancy, it is important to talk to your doctor. Everyone’s body is different and needs specific care. There are plenty of ways to manage postpartum UI, from exercises to absorbent products to elective surgery. In order to understand what is best for you, ask questions, gather knowledge and talk with other women about their experiences.

“I wish more women would share their experiences,” Cullnan said. “Having this information prior to delivery would have been very beneficial to me in getting my body back in shape. I have much less back pain or bladder leakage because of pelvic floor exercises than I did prior.”

This post is sponsored by Stayfree.

13 Worst Dog Breeds for Kids With Allergies

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Just because your kiddos have allergies to pets, that doesn't mean your home must be a dog-free zone. But there are certain dog breeds you should avoid — particularly those that shed and drool excessively.

Fluffy, cuddly or sloppy-jowled pups are irresistibly lovable, but unfortunately, they rank high on the list of allergenic dogs. So, before you head to the shelter to adopt a furever pup, take a look at this list of 13 dog breeds that are the worst for children with allergies.

More: Top 11 Dog Breeds for Kids

Akita

Akita

Akita

The Akita has a beautiful coat that comes in many colors, but it heavily sheds its coat in the spring and fall, making it a poor choice for kids with dog allergies.

German shepherd

German Shepherd

German Shepherd

Another non-hypoallergenic dog, the German shepherd is sometimes called the "German shedder" because it drops fur year-round, especially in the spring and fall.

Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky

Well-attired in a thick double coat, the Siberian Husky sheds a ton all year but lets loose of its "blow coat" twice a year. No one can escape it.

Alaskan Malamute

Malamute

Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute also has a biannual "blow coat" along with constant daily shedding, which can quickly affect kids with dog allergies.

Chow Chow

Chow Chow

Chow Chow

Because the Chow's irresistible cuddly coat comes out in handfuls when it sheds, kids with dog allergies need to keep their distance. The independent Chow will appreciate it, too, because this dog breed isn't big into hugs.

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees

Who can resist running their hands through the gorgeous coat of the Great Pyrenees? Children certainly can't, and kids with pet allergies will find themselves in a fit of sneezes with this heavy-shedding dog.

Newfoundland

Newfoundland

Newfoundland

In addition to the never-ending shedding, the larger-than-life Newfoundland is also a drooler. The combination of giant canine, endless fur flying and drool slinging is a sneeze- and wheeze-inducing trifecta for kids with allergies.

More: 12 Dog Breeds That Actually Get Along Great With Cats

Labrador retriever

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever

Although the lovable Lab doesn't sport a long coat, this non-hypoallergenic canine does shed, and the resulting dander can lead to allergic reactions.

Doberman pinscher

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman pinscher sports a smooth coat, and although it does shed less than a long double coat, this devoted dog drops dander more than other smooth-coated dog breeds.

Basset hound

Basset Hound

Basset Hound

Another smooth-coated canine, the basset hound sheds and leaves dander in its wake. To make allergy matters worse, this droopy-faced dog drools and drools and drools...

Bloodhound

Bloodhound

Bloodhound

A well-known drool flinger, the bloodhound is also a heavy shedder. Although this affectionate dog is considered a child-loving dog, there is no way to overlook the pools of drool and the constant shedding of fur.

English bulldog

English Bulldog

English Bulldog

Drool, drool, slurp and more drool, the English bulldog can't help but leave saliva everywhere. In addition to leaving wet spots on most surfaces of your home, this non-hypoallergenic dog also sheds fur and dander.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard

A giant of the canines, the Saint Bernard sheds big and drools big. Despite how much it loves children, kids with allergies need to be rescued from the allergens when this dog is in their midst.

A version of this article was originally published in October 2014.

How Much of American Woman Is Actually Inspired by Kyle Richards' Life?

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Since 2010, Kyle Richards has been starring in Bravo's Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, but recently, the former child star has made her way behind the camera as co-executive producer of Paramount Network's newest series, American Woman.

More: Kyle Richards Shares Sweet Throwback for Her 20th Anniversary (PHOTO)

It's inspired by Kyle's life in the '70s, growing up with her two sisters and their mother, Kathleen Richards. The half-hour series stars Alicia Silverstone (Clueless) as Bonnie, Mena Suvari (American Beauty) as Kathleen and Jennifer Bartels (Friends of the People) as Diana.

The official description: "American Woman follows Bonnie, an unconventional mother struggling to raise her two daughters after leaving her husband amid the rise of second-wave feminism in the '70s. With the help of her two best friends, Kathleen and Diana, these three women each discover their own brand of independence in a glamorous and ever-changing world reluctant to give it."

American Woman

American Woman

If you're planning on tuning in to the series, you may be wondering how much of the scripted drama is inspired by Kyle's life. From the beginning, the Housewife has made it clear that American Woman isn't based on her life; it's simply inspired by her childhood.

During the RHOBH Season 8 reunion, which aired in May, she chatted with Andy Cohen about how her creation has caused tension with her sisters, Kathy Hilton and Kim Richards. She also clarified how many real-life events will be seen in the project. "American Woman is inspired by my life growing up with my mom in the '70s," she explained. "When I'm with my sisters, American Woman doesn't usually come up. I feel like, since the beginning, they didn't really understand what the project was. It's not exactly our life at all."

Cohen asked Kyle, "Is their issue that they feel it's their story to tell and not just yours?" She replied, "No, because it's not exactly like our life. There's two sisters in the show, not three. And the writers take creative license. That's why I kept saying, 'inspired by, inspired by,' not 'based on.' I think they thought it was more literal. I would never take the liberty to take someone else's story, ever."

Kyle Richards, Kim Richards, Mom

Kyle Richards, Kim Richards, Mom

The show has caused serious friction between Kyle and her sisters, especially Hilton. The RHOBH star confessed to Cohen that she hadn't spoken with Hilton in six months and described their relationship as "not great." She also admitted, "Honestly, that's why I'm looking forward to her seeing American Woman, because I think she's gonna look and say, 'I read the situation wrong,' and then we'll go from there."

Kyle also explained to Cohen that she told Hilton "all the time" that American Woman isn't what she thinks it is. "I said, 'I’m not sharing your stories or Kim‘s — these are my own stories.' And not only that, it’s a fictionalized version of our life, and our mom being a single mom in the ’70s is the jumping-off point."

Later, during a May 23 Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen appearance, Kyle said she and Kim are fine now and she also sent her younger sister a DVD of the series to watch. However, Kyle said HIlton had yet to see it.

Despite all of the family drama, Kyle seems excited to tell her story, which viewers should remember is loosely inspired by what she remembers as a child. However, there are a few details that probably come from Kyle's experiences. For example, in the Season 1 premiere, there's a scene with Bonnie driving fast and her two daughters sliding around in the back seat without seat belts. This actually happened, according to Kyle.

In January 2017, she told Bravo's The Daily Dish, "I think about growing up as a kid and my mom would be smoking a cigarette with all the windows up [in the car] and I was flopping around in the back seat with no seatbelt on — I mean, that would never happen today. At least, we hope that would never happen today."

Kyle Richards' Mom

Kyle Richards' Mom

More: Kyle Richards Opens Up About Her Growing Relationship With Kim Richards

Kyle and Kim did have a father growing up. After divorcing Hilton's father, Laurence Avanzino, Kathleen married Ken Richards, a retail businessman. He and Kathleen split in 1972, and both later remarried. Ken died in 1998, and Kathleen died in 2002 of breast cancer.

Scenes in the first episode of American Woman showcase Bonnie's husband, Steve (James Tupper), in a bad light. He cheats on Bonnie, and Bonnie becomes determined to make it by herself after their divorce. But, as Richards discussed with The Los Angeles Times, while there are details specific to her life in the show, not everything should be taken to heart — including Steve's character.

"It is a fictionalized version, it’s inspired by childhood, but this is not autobiographical," she made clear. "The show has two sisters. It's not three. My dad's a jerk in the show; in my real life my dad was not. Yes, he cheated on my mom. That part of the story's true. The other stuff, the way he talked to my mom, no. My dad was a good guy. But you know, that's what happens when you make a TV show. It’s inspired by, not based on."

Alicia Silverstone & Kyle Richards

Alicia Silverstone & Kyle Richards

Anyone who's followed Kyle on Bravo knows how much she loved her mom and what it meant for her to be raised by such a strong female influence. As Kyle discussed with Variety in January, her mom acted as her and Kim's manager (they were both child actors), which will be seen in the show. She said American Woman will explore her mom's "experience raising the kids and the kids’ experience of working."

At the Television Critics' Association in January, Kyle opened up further about what viewers will see from Silverstone's character. "My mom really was a woman before her time. In the '70s, it wasn't a popular thing to be a strong woman. If you were strong and had a voice, you were thought of as a pushy broad where, nowadays, it's like boss lady. It wasn't like that back then." She continued, "My mom was a very strong woman and she was an amazing mother because she loved her kids so much, but she was very flawed. But you never forgot how much you were loved, and I think that's very apparent in the character Bonnie."

Silverstone even said that her character is a combination of different women, not just Kyle's mom. "A lot of the stories that you’ll see are things that happened to Kyle Richards and her mother, but a lot of it isn’t; it’s taking dramatic license, but the storytelling is so good,” she told Entertainment Weekly in October 2017. “My character is inspired by Kyle Richards’ mother, but she’s also inspired by our creator John Riggi’s mom. Like any art form, it then became about everybody’s mom. John Wells, the producer, it’s about his mom, and I used my mom as inspiration. Bonnie is this collective [mother]."

Jennifer Bartels, Mena Suvari, Alicia Silverstone, American Woman

As for the other characters in the series, Cheyenne Jackson stars as Greg, a "boy toy" for Suvari's character, Kathleen (one of Bonnie's closest friends). According to Deadline, Jackson's character is described as follows: "A charmer who works in casting at a major studio, Greg persuades Kathleen to invest a bundle in his new casting company — leaving her friends understandably leery." Per Variety, Kathleen is also someone who "yearns for love and marriage, but her habit of picking up so-called 'boy toys' who exploit her for her looks and her money stands in the way of her happiness."

More: Kyle Richards Sheds Light on Her Difficult Relationship With Sister, Kim

Then there is Bartels' character, Diana, who is Bonnie's best friend and has been a working professional for the past 10 years. "Diana has had to endure harassment and inappropriate sexual comments from her sexist boss throughout her tenure, but she masks her misery through a positive resilient manner," according to Deadline. "When Bonnie splits from her husband, Diana confides just how challenging the real world can be for a woman, no matter how smart and capable she may be."

The series definitely sounds relevant today, and it also seems to serve as a powerful tribute to Kyle's mom. She has said she can't wait for her four daughters to watch.

The one thing Kyle hopes they take away from the drama is "to be strong and independent and not have to need a man for anything," she told Variety in January. "I enjoy the role of being a wife and a mom, but I want my kids to know you don’t need a man for anything, and like my mom says in the show, ‘Never allow yourself to be intimidated by a man.' You always have to stand up for yourself."

American Woman premieres Thursday at 10/9c on Paramount Network.

Mariah Carey Opened Up About Racism, Sexual Abuse & Her Bipolar Disease

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Mariah Carey has a huge personality and a career that’s even bigger, so it’s not surprising the spotlight seems to follow the iconic singer. It’s a symbiotic relationship she shares with the media — they keep her in the headlines, and she delivers with divalike antics. And although Carey has certainly given the press plenty to write about over the years, her recent interview with The Guardian is creating more buzz than most.

More: Mariah Carey Talks About Living With Bipolar Disorder — but What Is It?

Sure, it could be due to the fact that Carey confessed she sometimes bathes in cold milk. But, more important, the fascination stems at least in part from the singer’s newfound willingness to discuss her bipolar disorder.

When asked whether she believed that her bipolar disorder diagnosis could be traced back to anything, Carey told The Guardian’s Simon Hattenstone that, if anything, she would say it's rooted in her past trauma, including an identity crisis growing up.

“It was a combination of being biracial and experiencing the darker side of life. My mom experienced a lot of racism as an opera singer because she was married to a black man,” Carey explained, recounting one instance when a friend saw Carey’s father for the first time. “She burst into tears because she had never seen a black person. I just remember how that impacted on me.”

Carey also touched on her lack of self-esteem, which she attributes to the self-perceived feelings of worthlessness that came with being biracial, poor and in a household where her sister, Allison, was a sex worker — the latter of which Carey indirectly connects to some of her mental health issues by saying those experiences turned her into “a very guarded person.”

Of course, Carey’s comments foster an important dialogue. How is bipolar disorder defined, and can environmental factors really contribute? To find out, we turned to Dr. Fran Walfish, Beverly Hills family and relationship psychotherapist, author of The Self-Aware Parent, regular expert child psychologist on The Doctors and costar of Sex Box.

More: 9 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Bipolar Disorder

Defined, bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes a person’s moods to shift from manic highs to depressive lows. However, the ongoing conversation about the condition is complex.

“Mental illness is very difficult for the lay population to understand — and there are even disputes among professional about etiology, which means ‘root cause,’” Walfish told us. “At this point, in 2018, it is believed that bipolar is nature versus nurture, meaning the person is born with a tendency, a propensity, a gene… whatever the trait is — they’re born with it.”

In other words, it is widely accepted that whether a person will have bipolar disorder or not all boils down to their biochemical predisposition.

Walfish is careful to point out, though, that what Carey said isn’t without truth. “All of the things she listed don’t help. They just exacerbate the problem,” she said, elaborating, “Each person has a different level of sturdiness in their ego and, given different stressors in life, the bipolar disorder may be triggered.”

More: Mariah Carey Received a New Award, but Not for Her Singing

So while Carey was likely born with a biochemical genetic predisposition for bipolar disorder, the stressors she mentioned in the interview — racism, identity struggles, poverty — could very well have served as catalysts for manic episodes.

“Going above a person’s manageable level of anxiety can trigger a lot of things, so it’s key for the individual to learn what is their limit,” Walfish shared.

“Rather than saying no one’s perfect, I’d rather say we are all flawed. And the key to good mental health, I believe, is knowing where our flaws are, accepting them, treating them — meaning if you need medicine, take it — and accepting ourselves, flaws and all.” 

Insider Claims Kendra Wilkinson & Hank Baskett's Divorce Is an 'Unhealthy Situation'

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It looks as though things have taken an acrimonious turn in Kendra Wilkinson and Hank Baskett’s split. Wilkinson, who filed for divorce from her now-ex in April, let off some steam by live-tweeting a heated argument between the pair. In fact, the tension between Wilkinson and Baskett has gotten so bad that an Us Weekly source insists the situation has become unhealthy.

More: Kendra Wilkinson Is Having Very Human Problems Right Now

On Tuesday, Wilkinson headed to Twitter to clue followers into the particularly nasty fight she was in the middle of with Baskett. In the since-deleted tweets, she gave a play-by-play of her ex’s insults and allegations — adding her own commentary in too, of course.

“He’s blaming me for his football career ending,” she wrote, followed closely by, “he’s blaming me for cheating on me while pregnant.”

It was clear from the onset the exes were not in a good place, considering Wilkinson’s first tweet in the string alleged Baskett was recording her. She even pleaded with her followers to “please tell him to leave me alone and stop.”

Wilkinson added on that note, “I’m minding my business and after I tell him to leave me alone he disrespects me. I’m trying to get out of my house fast. I’m beyond sad. But recording me is my trigger.”

More: Kendra Wilkinson Breaks Down About Her Marriage in Emotional Videos

Presumably, after the melee was over (and the original tweets were deleted), Wilkinson returned to Twitter to further explain the feelings behind her tweetstorm.

“I tried so hard,” she wrote. “I did everything by the book and loved and I get shit on. I’m so sorry for u all to feel awkward rt now. When I was being recorded I felt threatened. Have a good day.” Wilkinson then added a final comment on the topic, saying, “When u feel like u give the best of yourself 24/7 and someone trying to take the best of u… it’s hard to breathe. Love u all.”

Those tweets have also since been deleted, but the lingering sentiment remains — Wilkinson and Baskett are in a bad place, and Wilkinson is understandably struggling emotionally.

According to E! News, Baskett realizes this and is using it to his advantage (which, c’mon, would be terrible and incredibly sad if true). “He knows what bothers her most,” an insider reportedly told the outlet. “He sees that she is trying to move on and wants to date again, and it’s something that triggers him. It has been an ongoing battle between the two.”

More: Divorce Isn't Spoiling Kendra Wilkinson's Sex Drive

The insider also confirmed there is a lot of animosity between the estranged couple, who have two children together: son Hank Baskett IV and daughter Alijah.


What You Need to Know About Vaginal Probiotics

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We hear about probiotics a lot, especially in terms of gut health. But they also crop up in conversations on vaginal health. Are these the same types of probiotics? Can we get them from eating yogurt? What exactly do they do? We spoke to a few OB-GYNs to get the lowdown on vaginal probiotics.

What are they?

To put it simply, vaginal probiotics are “good” bacteria that are essential for a healthy vagina, Dr. Mache Seibel, an OB-GYN, tells SheKnows. And although we may associate bacteria will illness, there are several types that are actually essential for bodily function, Dr. Lauren Streicher, and OB-GYN and medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause and associate clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University, tells SheKnows.

More: Itchy Vagina? Here's What's Causing It & How to Treat It

"All areas of the body are populated by bacteria, which function to help you break down food, aid your immune system and supplement your health in important ways," she explains. "Infection with a pathogenic bacteria or overgrowth of a nonpathogenic bacteria can be problematic and increase the risk of unpleasant symptoms or infection. Probiotics can help keep your body balanced and prevent many medical conditions, which is why the number of probiotics for digestive health has boomed over the last few years and science is only beginning to understand the complex relationship our bodies have with beneficial bacteria in other parts of the body.

When do we need them?

A healthy vagina has a balanced pH, but things like yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis and taking antibiotics can throw it out of whack, Seibel explains, noting that probiotics can help restore a healthy bacterial balance. He adds that taking vaginal probiotics does not present any risks — so for most people with recurring yeast infections, it's a good place to start treatment.

How do you get them?

Let's start by clarifying that not all probiotics are created equal.

"Many products on the market claim to contain probiotics, lactobacillus and/or acidophilus," Streicher explains. "Some products contain probiotic strains that are designed to promote digestive [health], immunity or other health benefits but are not specific to vaginal health."

As a result, it's important to understand the features of these products so you know whether what you are taking is actually beneficial to your overall vaginal health, she notes. Specifically, vaginal probiotics provide probiotic lactobacillus that works with your body to balance vaginal yeast and bacteria, Streicher says. In order to increase effectiveness, a probiotic should contain both live active cultures and a strain specific to the vagina, she notes.

MoreWhat to Do If You Get Something Stuck Inside Your Vagina

Probiotics can be taken either via oral supplements (available over the counter from pharmacies) or vaginally, Seibel explains. This, however, does not include yogurt-dipped tampons or applying yogurt topically inside your vagina, Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, an OB-GYN and clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Yale University, tells SheKnows. While she says that some people report this method working, it's really not a good idea.

"The problem is that the strains of lactobacilli in yogurt aren't exactly the same ones that hang around the vagina, which is why that approach may not work," she explains.

Why is a balanced vagina important?

Everyday occurrences like taking oral antibiotics, the menstrual cycle, sexual activity, exercise and swimming can upset the natural balance of yeast and bacteria that live in the vagina — as can hormonal changes like pregnancy and menopause, Streicher explains. She adds that most people who have bacterial vaginosis do not experience any symptoms, which can potentially lead to serious issues like infertility.

"Optimum vaginal health occurs when there is a healthy balance of lactobacillus, yeast and other bacteria," she says.

So, if you've been experiencing vaginal health problems, you may want to speak to your doctor about taking some oral vaginal probiotic supplements — and skip the yogurt-dipped tampons.

Mindy Kaling's Baby's Favorite Place Is Oprah's House, Because Obviously

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It's common knowledge that it's Oprah Winfrey's world, and we're just living in it. In fact, even Mindy Kaling's 6-month-old daughter, Katherine, knows Winfrey's home is sacred ground. (Yes, little Katherine has already crossed off the lifetime bucket list item of chilling at Winfrey's place.)

During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Kaling shared that her daughter's adventure to Winfrey's house got off to a rocky start: Winfrey had invited the cast of A Wrinkle in Time for a private screening at her home, but Katherine (better known as "Kit") didn't appear to be as stoked as the rest. This could, of course, be because she's a tiny baby — but, hey, Kaling was concerned nonetheless.

More: Mindy Kaling Loves Having One-Sided Chats With Her Baby Daughter

"She'd been really fussy, she'd been fussy the whole way. And I'm like, 'Oh, my God, am I going to be the person that brings a screaming baby into Oprah's cathedral of beauty and art?'" Kaling recalled. "And the minute we went in, I was like, 'Katherine, please. Please. You have no idea how high the stakes are right now."

Mindy Kaling Ellen

Mindy Kaling Ellen

MoreMindy Kaling Welcomes First Child

As it turns out, Kaling needn't have worried — Katherine immediately shifted gears and was all smiles the moment she and her mom entered chez Winfrey.

"We walked into the door, and her eyes went wide and she stopped crying — like she knew she was in Oprah's house," Kaling told DeGeneres. "And then she was just, like, coyly smiling and being adorable for, like, the next four hours."

More: Mindy Kaling Hid Her Pregnancy Using "Antipsychotic Antibiotics"

Moral of the story: The best way to calm a fussy baby is by taking them to Oprah Winfrey's house. Life would be so much easier if the rest of us had this option.

Jesse Williams Is Still Fighting Child Support Demands From His Ex-Wife

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The escalating bitterness between Jesse Williams and his estranged wife, Aryn Drake-Lee, is unlikely to diminish anytime soon. In fact, it appears the strained relationship between the two just got even worse — Williams is fighting back against his ex’s request for more spousal support, asking the court to deny the increase.

More: Jessie Williams Is Still Dealing With Custody Drama

Court documents obtained by E! News reportedly reveal that Williams says Drake-Lee “exaggerates many of our expenses.” Williams offered context, stating, “We agreed that our children should live a simple life without wasting money on extravaganza.”

It’s clear there is no love lost between the two — on both sides.

“A constant theme throughout our divorce proceedings has been Aryn marginalizing me as a father,” Williams said in the documents, going on to add, “Aryn continues to engage in this type of behavior and punish me for having a career and working hard to provide for our family.”

At present, Williams pays Drake-Lee $50,695 per month in child support for their kids, Sadie and Maceo. Per TMZ, one of the “wildly inflated” expenses included in Drake-Lee’s filing is $25,000 per month for college savings for the children, who are 2 and 4.

More: Don't Like Jesse Williams' Politics? He Doesn't Care

Given the kids will be 18 when they go to college and outside the legal purview of the court, Williams considers Drake-Lee’s request both excessive and out-of-bounds. He alleges that it’s all part of Drake-Lee’s attempt to beef up her spousal support — they were married less than five years, which means she will only receive spousal support for half of that time.

TMZ’s sources say Williams is more than willing to pay all of the kids’ private school expenses and any other current living expenses. However, he ultimately finds Drake-Lee’s demands “absurd and greedy, and in no way related to the children or their needs.”

Recent reports in Page Six and other outlets claim Williams is now dating SportsNet New York anchor Taylor Rooks.

More: Jesse Williams Is Dating Again & May Have Already Found His Next Girlfriend

However, Williams maintains that — despite rumors he cheated on Drake-Lee with Minka Kelly — he was never unfaithful to his former wife.

“I was in a relationship 13 years, 13 real years, not five years, not seven years, 13 years,” he said in Jay-Z’s “Footnotes for 4:44” video. “And all of a sudden motherfuckers are writing think pieces that I somehow threw a 13-year relationship — like the most painful experience I’ve had in my life with a person I’ve loved with all my heart — that I threw a person and my family in the trash because a girl I work with is cute.” 

Chip & Joanna Gaines Were Just Fined $40K by the EPA

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When we see the Gaineses in the news, they're usually getting tons of praise — whether it's a review of their new restaurant, Magnolia, Joanna Gaines' new home decor line at Target or people are just oohing and aahing over a recent episode of Fixer Upper. But today, they're making headlines because they have been hit with a whopping $40,000 fine from the Environmental Protection Agency.

More: A Look at the Evolution of Joanna Gaines' Design

What did they do to earn such a hefty fine? Well, the EPA reviewed several seasons of their hit show, Fixer Upper, and found that the Gaineses violated strict rules while removing lead paint from the homes they were remodeling. The EPA didn't just find one instance of improper lead paint removal. In fact, 33 homes renovated on the show “did not depict the lead-safe work practices normally required,” according to a statement on EPA’s website Tuesday. Yikes.

The EPA explained that the Gaineses did not take proper precautions like covering floors and vents when removing lead paint. This is especially important in homes that were built prior to 1978, and many of the homes the couple remodeled fall into that category.

More: Everything You Need to Know About Fixer Upper's New Target Line

Chip and Joanna Gaines' company, Magnolia Homes, has agreed to pay the $40,000 civil fine. They also made sure to demonstrate how to properly remove lead paint in an episode that aired in March.

The couple actually wanted to go a step further and take full responsibility for their mistakes. According to People, the Gaineses have offered to spend $160,000 on a lead paint abatement program for homes and child-occupied facilities in their hometown of Waco, Texas. You've gotta admit. That's a pretty awesome gesture.

Pink's Kid Dyed Her Hair & Is Cooler Than All of Us

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Ordinarily, I'd feel a little embarrassed to admit that a 7-year-old is way cooler and more stylish than me, but I defy you to take a look at Pink's daughter, Willow, and not feel the same way. In her latest style endeavor, Willow dyed her hair purple — and she's totally rocking the punk look. (We'd expect nothing less.)

Willow's proud dad, Carey Hart, shared the first glimpse of Willow's purple 'do on Instagram. "Have you met my daughter Wednesday Addams??? Love you munchkin. #MyDaughterIsMorePunkThanYours," Hart captioned the post.

More: Pink's Daughter Gives Dad Carey Hart a Very Extra Haircut

Pink Daughter Purple Hair

Pink Daughter Purple Hair

On the same day, Willow showed off her new hairstyle when she joined her mom onstage during the singer's Los Angeles show. For her surprise cameo, Willow wore a patterned top, leggings and headphones that matched her new hair color.

MorePink's Daughter Willow Is Giving Makeup Tutorials

It was a busy weekend for Willow — she also celebrated her seventh birthday on Saturday. Both Pink and Hart shared sweet tributes to their daughter on Instagram to mark the occasion. Pink posted a seriously adorable black-and-white throwback picture accompanied by the caption, "Happy birthday dear one."

Pink Daughter Birthday Post

Pink Daughter Birthday Post

Hart's lengthier but equally sweet post showed Willow with her new purple hairstyle and was captioned, "Happy 7th birthday to my bad ass daughter Willow!!!!! I love this little girl more than life itself. She is becoming such a strong, smart, sensitive, little girl," he wrote. "I’m so proud of everything you are and I enjoy every moment we are together. Even when you are giving me a hard time! Happy 7th big girl, your mamma, little brother, and papa love you around the moon 10 million times and back."

Carey Hart Daughter Birthday Post

Carey Hart Daughter Birthday Post

I'm not crying, you're crying.

More: Pink's Daughter Willow Steals Show in Video for "Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken"

Little Purple — er, Willow — marches to the beat of her own drummer, and we love that both her parents are so supportive of all her endeavors, whether it's trying out makeup tutorials or totally stealing the show in her mom's music video for "Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken."

Pink Daughter Makeup

Pink Daughter Makeup

I don't know about you, but I certainly could use fashion advice from this 7-year-old. Yeah, I'm not ashamed to admit it.

Law & Order: SVU Has Great News for Its Fans (& Mariska Hargitay)

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Don’t you just hate it when your favorite shows end? And when you’ve invested years of your life into the characters, such a loss can feel devastating — which is why even the thought of Law & OrderSVU going off the air is enough to make any true fan shudder. But rejoice, y’all! Mariska Hargitay has good news for all of us.

More: SVU's Great Because Olivia Benson Tirelessly Defends Rape Victims

Well, technically, NBC’s Robert Greenblatt kicked off the conversation that ultimately culminated in Hargitay’s happy revelation. When asked at a Paley Center event about the longevity of the series, Greenblatt basically put the ball in the court of SVU’s leading lady.

“Greenblatt says every year, NBC checks in with @mariska and she keeps saying she wants to continue @nbcsvu — and it will continue as long as she wants it to,” the Paley Center tweeted of Greenblatt’s comments.

SVU 1

SVU 1

And, praise be, the veteran actor — who’s already snagged an Emmy for her role as Lt. Olivia Benson — seems pretty darn content to stay put. That’s saying a lot considering the show is entering its impressive 20th season this fall. Upon hitting Season 20, it will officially tie Gunsmoke and the original Law & Order as the longest-running scripted live-action drama on TV.

Nearly two decades later, Hargitay admits she still isn’t tired of Benson yet.

“When you’re just in it, it’s hard to fully take in. So I’m just grateful for this role, for this part, for [Dick Wolf’s] vision and that I’ve gotten to mine a character for so long that is still deeply challenging to me and inspiring to me and necessary and timely, and I think truly changing the culture,” Hargitay told E! News.

More: I Like Law & Order: SVU Without Stabler

Prior to the Season 19 premiere, the actor also shared that she has brought the role to life for so long that it genuinely feels like a part of her. “It’s deeply in me,” she explained. “I was just saying the other day, I don’t know anymore where Mariska ends and Olivia starts. They’re just becoming so enmeshed and entwined, and I think that’s a good thing.”

We couldn’t agree more! Like Benson, Hargitay spends much of her time advocating for women and children. She even founded a charity — the Joyful Heart Foundation — inspired by the subject matter on SVU, and she has been helping victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse through that organization since 2004.

So, the fundamental truth that everyone loves tuning in to watch Benson fight the good fight on TV each week isn’t the only reason we hope the show sticks around for many years to come. Hargitay is fostering important conversations and effecting great change using the show as a platform.

More: 27 Surprising SVU Guest Stars You Didn't Know Were on the Show

Happily, she sees her role through that lens, and accordingly, won’t soon give it up.

“You know what? Nineteen years later and I’m finding myself deeply inspired and committed and finding new places to go and challenged,” she told E! News. “I want to be challenged. As long as that’s happening, I’m very happy and fulfilled.” 

All the Celebrity Commencement Speeches of 2018

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Every year at graduations across the country, wedged between the pomp and circumstance and the parties is one important rite of passage: the commencement address. Not until these inspirational words have been spoken can the class of 2018 move their tassels, fling their caps and run off to join the great big world. And every year, more celebrities join the ranks of invited speakers and put their public address skills to the test. It's less of an audience than the Oscars but with a much longer time limit, so it's a chance for celebs to really bare their hearts. Here's a look at who is participating in all the festivities this year and what they've been saying.

More: Best Excerpts From Golden Globe Winners' Speeches

Jimmy Fallon — Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, June 3

Jimmy Fallon MSD Commencement

Jimmy Fallon MSD Commencement

On June 3, Jimmy Fallon appeared at the commencement ceremony for the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Class of 2018 in Sunrise, Florida. The ceremony had already earned attention because this senior class was the first to graduate in the wake of the tragic school shooting that occurred on Valentine's Day earlier in the year. Fallon's speech was filled with messages of love and hope, but also a little humor.

Capitalizing on a viral video, one of Fallon's opening quips went like this: "Today, you're graduating from high school. You should feel incredibly proud of yourselves. That doesn't mean you should rest on your laurels — or your yannies."

But Fallon went on to more heartfelt sentiments, remarking, "When something feels hard, remember that it gets better. Choose to move forward. Don't let anything stop you."

Cynthia Nixon — Helene Fuld College of Nursing, May 4

Cynthia Nixon address

Cynthia Nixon address

Nixon gave a tribute to her mother, talking about the woman who taught her courage throughout her life and modeled a can-do attitude. She credited her mother’s approach to a cancer diagnosis for giving her the faith to approach her own, later diagnosis head-on. She also encouraged graduates to “never doubt that you can make a space big enough for yourself in this world” and to know that their voices are important as they advocate for their patients and for better health care.

Amal Clooney — Vanderbilt University, May 10

Amal Clooney speech

Amal Clooney speech

The human rights lawyer told the crowd it was her first commencement address and asked them to bear with her. But there was little need for that, as Clooney eloquently discussed current affairs she is passionate about, telling grads that courage is needed now more than ever. She cited infringement on women’s rights and LGBTQ issues and freedom of the press as examples of areas that need courageous leadership.

Oprah Winfrey — USC Annenberg, May 11

Oprah Winfrey address

Oprah Winfrey address

Winfrey told the crowd she would have been there anyway, since one of her “daughter girls” — a mentee from the school Winfrey founded in South Africa — was part of the graduating class. She reminded graduates that they are now in a position to keep people in power “in check” by responding to false narratives and illuminating darkness. She urged grads to pay attention to people who claim to represent their interests and hold them to account.

More: Michelle Obama Is Also 100 Percent Here for Chance the Rapper's $1M Donation

Chadwick Boseman — Howard University, May 12

Chadwick Boseman speech

Chadwick Boseman speech

Boseman received an honorary doctorate from the same school where he received his undergrad degree and joked with students that some of them were graduating by the skin of their teeth. He urged grads to reflect on the importance of the moment and recognize how they can contribute to the democratic process. He lauded students who put their complaints about the university into action through protests that took place earlier in the year.

Chance the Rapper — Dillard University, May 12

Chance the Rapper speech

Chance the Rapper speech

The singer proved himself a powerful speaker last year with his impassioned speech accepting the BET Humanitarian Award. At Dillard’s graduation, where Chance received an honorary doctorate, he encouraged students to get over the fear of eclipsing their heroes by comparing the performances of Michael Jackson and Beyoncé. “You do a disservice trying to live up to your ancestors,” he said. “You have to outlive them.”

Michael Keaton — Kent State University, May 12

Michael Keaton speech

Michael Keaton speech

Like many graduation speakers, Keaton spoke about his own memories of college and the way the experience changed him. He explained how school helped him grow to love education and touted the idea of free education for all. The actor also encouraged graduates to take chances in life to help them get back to their most authentic self. But he left the audience with the two most important words he could think to give them: “I’m Batman.”

More: Cynthia Nixon's Political Legitimacy Questioned by Another Female Candidate

John Lithgow — Dominican University of California, May 12

John Lithgow speaker

John Lithgow speaker

Lithgow was just one part of a two-keynote address ceremony. Noted economist Dr. Mary Yeager, his wife, was the other speaker. Lithgow also received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters and Yeager received an honorary Doctorate of Laws. Lithgow and Yeager told graduates that the relationships they established during school would enrich them for years to come and would remain their most precious gift.

Queen Latifah — Rutgers University Newark, May 14

Queen Latifah speech

Queen Latifah speech

Speaking in her hometown, Latifah told the gathered audience that now, they are the role models. She reached back to her experience of finding her confidence as a young actor in a school production to explain how a student’s roots can shape their life. “The love you find in family is a powerful teacher. Make sure you stay enrolled in that class as long as you can,” Latifah said.

Justin Trudeau — New York University, May 16

Justin Trudeau speech

Justin Trudeau speech

The Canadian prime minister urged graduates to fight the tribal mindset that can provide community on one hand but tear people apart on another. Trudeau spoke of tolerance but stressed the need to aim higher, toward acceptance, respect, friendship and love. “Celebration of difference needs to extend to differences of values and beliefs, too. Diversity includes political and cultural diversity too,” he said.

Jimmy Carter — Liberty University, May 19

Jimmy Carter speech

Jimmy Carter speech

What’s made headlines in regard to Jimmy Carter's commencement speech (as seen in the above video, which starts an hour into Liberty University's ceremony) is his joke about how the crowd at his speech was even bigger than the crowd in 2017 for President Donald Trump’s graduation address. “I don’t know if President Trump will admit that or not,” Carter said. He went on to talk about the human rights work he’s so well known for and to encourage graduates to learn to live in peace, considering all people equals.

Hillary Clinton — Yale University, May 20

Hillary Clinton speech

Hillary Clinton speech

Clinton injected lots of political jokes into her address to the graduates, including a not-so-subtle barb aimed at President Trump and the investigation into Russian meddling in the election. To an audience known for wearing outlandish hats to the ceremony, Clinton held up a Russian black fur hat, saying “If you can’t beat them, join them.” Ultimately, however, she encouraged grads to keep fighting for the things they find right, noting that it’s always worth it.

President Donald Trump — U.S. Naval Academy, May 25

President Trump speech

President Trump speech

The president told Navy graduates that the country would stand up to defend our men and women in uniform as they stand to defend us. He promised that the U.S. would be rebuilding our aging naval fleet with 355 new ships in the pipeline. Recounting some of the achievements of America's past, he said that we must have pride in our past to have confidence in the future.

Ava DuVernay — Cornell University, May 26 

Ana-Duvernay

The award-winning director/producer told the crowd they were in charge of their own destiny, encouraging them to be the director of the film of their life. She recounted the road that took her from being an African studies/English double major at UCLA to speaking at Cornell now. Her journey gives her hope for the future of our world, she told the crowd, saying, "What gives me hope… is the knowledge that there is precedent — precedent for everything that everyone is experiencing. To be hopeless is to disregard history.”

Benicio del Toro — Mercersburg Academy, May 27

Benicio del Toro

Benicio del Toro, an '85 graduate of the prep school, told the story of the road that led to his acting career before prompting students to figure out their convictions and passions in order to find their real calling. He pulled from the work of American painter Mary Rogers to direct students to look within before listening to the voices around them. "Mary said that every human being has a song in their head and that it lingers in the back of our minds. She talked about letting that song sing to us," he said. He also recalled the contributions that young people are currently making in society and lauded this generation for having the courage to see themselves as leaders.

Hilary Swank — Savannah College of Art and Design, June 1

Hilary Swank FYC for Trust

Hilary Swank, who took flak for being a "high-school dropout" while promoting her film Freedom Writers back in 2007, delivered a commencement speech upon also receiving an honorary doctorate from the Savannah College of Art and Design on June 1.

Swank spoke to new graduates about paying attention to what lights you up, saying "I knew I wanted to be an actor when I was 8 years old. My favorite teacher had us write a skit and perform it in front of the class. When I was up there, I felt time stand still, and every cell of my body came alive. News alert: When you feel something like this in your life, pay attention. It’s the universe telling you you’re onto something."

She also explained that she believes her achievements were the mere results of staying true to four guiding lights: 

"One, make a choice and then make it happen… Every. Single. Day. Sometimes, that means getting out of your own way, whatever that might be: your mindset, a fear, a seeming obstacle, a 'setback' …whatever. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, who you’ve been or where you are now. All that matters is that you make choices every single day to work towards your dream.

"Two, inevitably, the universe is going to throw some very ugly curveballs at you. No matter what they look like, never assume any of them are bad... Be on the look out for the opportunities that are about to present themselves.

"Three, ignore what everyone else is doing or what society is telling you to do. Don’t let anyone tell you 'how' something needs to be done for you to achieve your goals — including me! Don’t worry about how fast or slow you’re going compared to others. Speed doesn’t matter. It’s how present you are in each moment that matters. There are a million different paths to your end goal. Any path you choose will likely be long and full of ups and downs, so choose the one that brings you the most joy and makes you feel most alive. And then pursue that goal with all the grit, passion and determination you can muster. And whatever you do, don’t ever give up.

"And fourth — and this is the most important one — remember that none of your goals are worth anything if you lose perspective on your humanity. At the end of it all, when you’re lying on your deathbed, what matters most is who’s around you and that you’re able to take comfort in the fact that you moved through life with grace, kindness and integrity."

Upcoming addresses scheduled:

Mindy Kaling — Dartmouth College, June 10

Mayim Bialik — UCLA, June 15

Sterling K. Brown — Stanford University, June 17


Why You Still Need to Be Concerned About Zika & How to Prevent It

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While chatter about the Zika virus may not be breaking news any longer, it's still around. The risks are highest for pregnant women and their babies, so let's take a look at how Zika is contracted and how to avoid it in the first place.

What is the Zika virus?

The Zika virus is an illness that is transmitted via those pesky summertime pests, also known as mosquitoes, Dr. Erika Munch, a reproductive endocrinologist at Texas Fertility Center based in San Antonio, Texas, tells SheKnows. And while mosquito-borne viruses can be serious, she notes that unlike malaria or yellow fever, many people with Zika don’t show any outward symptoms of being sick, like having a fever or rash.

"Only about 20 percent of people infected with Zika show outward symptoms of illness, which can be mistaken for other viral illnesses," she explains.

More: How Worried Should People Who Aren't Pregnant Be About Zika?

Zika is transmitted through bites from infected mosquitoes, but Munch notes that it can also be spread through bodily fluids. This means that sexually intimate couples can contract the virus from one another and is why it can possibly infect an unborn baby.

While the symptoms of Zika can be fairly mild and very few infected people will actually experience symptoms at all (and it's even rarer to die from it), it's important to know what it looks like. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the symptoms of Zika include:

  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Headache
  • Joint pain
  • Muscle pain
  • Conjunctivitis (inflammation or infection of the outer membrane of the eyeball and the inner eyelid)

But the big problem with Zika — the one that generates most of the headlines — is the harm it can cause developing fetuses.

"Most people who get infected with the Zika virus will not show any symptoms and will clear the viral infection within two to three weeks," Munch says. "However, because Zika can affect rapidly dividing brain tissue, Zika is most concerning and dangerous to an unborn baby. Babies born to women who were infected with the Zika virus have had more head and brain birth defects than otherwise expected."

How to prevent Zika

Of course, the main way to avoid the Zika virus is to stay indoors (and make sure your sex partner does the same) and never, ever go outside when mosquitoes are around. This is, of course, unreasonable. That being said, there are certain areas where Zika is more of a problem.

More: What We Know Right Now About Zika & Birth Defects in the U.S.

So far in 2018, the CDC has reported no Zika cases in the United States, but for those who live in Texas or Florida or pregnant women (or their partners) who intend to travel, there can be some concern. Parts of Mexico, certain countries in South America and Africa and areas in Asia (particularly India, its neighbors and island countries) are the riskiest places to travel while pregnant.

Dr. Barry Alto, an associate professor of entomology at the University of Florida/Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, tells SheKnows why these areas are the biggest Zika hot spots today. "Zika virus spread to the Oceania region and caused outbreaks on Yap island in Micronesia in 2007 and in French Polynesia in 2013," he says. "Zika virus was first discovered in Brazil in 2015 and spread throughout the Americas. It is estimated that 1.5 million people have been infected by the Zika virus in Brazil.​"

Munch has suggestions for those who may be concerned about Zika as they plan a pregnancy. "For any sexually intimate couple where there is a chance (intended or unintended!) for pregnancy, we recommend talking with your doctor about your travel plans and your particular risks," she explains. She points out the CDC world map of areas with risk of Zika, which can help you cement plans (or abandon them).

She says that it's possible your doctor may recommend canceling any unnecessary travel or that you take steps to prevent transmission of the Zika virus by preventing mosquito bites and minimizing risk of infection from your partner.

"It’s also smart to practice common sense strategies against Zika virus, including wearing long-sleeved clothing in areas prone to mosquitos, wearing EPA-registered insect repellent while outside and eliminating standing water around your home where mosquitos like to breed (such as in plant dishes, buckets or sunken parts of the yard)," Munch notes.

The bottom line? Live your life, but take care to avoid mosquitoes and traveling to high-risk areas, especially if you are (or plan to become) pregnant. And as Munch mentioned above, not all pregnancies are planned, so if you're visiting a Zika-prone area, use protection to prevent pregnancy.

11 Movies About Sexuality You Can Watch Right Now

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June is Pride Month here in the United States. That means that there is a whole lot of celebrating to be done and a lot of attention that needs to be paid to inclusivity, positive representation and honoring the LGBTQ community. But Pride Month is also a great time to get in touch with the films that use sexuality (both queer and straight) as the entry point for their stories and open up new conversations about human sexuality overall. Goodness knows there are plenty of them out there; why not check some of them out?

We've rounded up a handful of great films about sexuality that you can stream right now if you have a Netflix, Hulu or Amazon Prime account. From Carol to The 40-Year-Old Virgin, these films are definitely must-see material.

More: The Best New Summer Shows You Don't Want to Miss Out On

1. Carol (Netflix)

Carol Trailer

Carol Trailer

Critically acclaimed and focused on a young queer woman's sexual awakening as she falls in love with an older, closeted lesbian in the 1950s, Carol is an excellent go-to if you want to start your Pride Month viewing properly.

2. Half Magic (Hulu)

Half Magic Trailer

Half Magic Trailer

Directed by and starring Heather Graham along with TV comedy queens Angela Kinsey (The Office) and Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine), this film focuses on three women in their 30s and 40s reconnecting with the sexual selves, supporting one another as friends and overcoming their own insecurities to hilarious, empowering results.

3. Newness (Netflix)

Newness Trailer

Newness Trailer

Newness is an interesting entry focused on a couple who have been together for some time choosing to open their relationship and pursue new romantic experiences, both together and individually. Embracing straight and queer desires alike, the couple find that opening up their relationship has them rightfully questioning their own relationship as they search for what they really want.

4. I Am Michael (Netflix)

I Am Michael Trailer

I Am Michael Trailer

James Franco stars as the titular Michael, a gay activist who made national headlines when he claimed he was able to convert himself from gay to straight, later becoming a Christian pastor. Bound to incite conversations once the credits roll, I Am Michael is a thought-provoking film based on a true story that takes a harder look at human sexuality.

5. God's Own Country (Netflix)

Gods Own Country Trailer

Gods Own Country Trailer

This sweeping, beautiful U.K. film acts as a gorgeous coming-of-age story and an exploration of the intersection of working-class life and gay, male sexuality. Frank but deeply felt in its depiction of two young men falling in love in the English countryside, God's Own Country is for the sentimental folks out there.

More: 11 TV Shows You Should Be Watching

6. The 40-Year-Old Virgin (Netflix)

40 Year Old Virgin Trailer

40 Year Old Virgin Trailer

Who could say no to a funny, bawdy romp like this one, where straight male sexuality is examined at every angle, heightened for comedic effect and ultimately treated just as sensitively as straight female sexuality? We don't know about you, but we're all in.

7. Sex and Lucía (Netflix)

Sex and Lucia Trailer

Sex and Lucia Trailer

Sex and Lucía gets steamy in parts, but it also has hidden depths and a great performance from Paz Vega that will make you very glad you decided to watch.

8. Love (Netflix)

Love Trailer

Love Trailer

Transgressive, aggressive and moody, Love is very NSFW, but also very intriguing in its exploration of modern relationship dynamics as it relates to love in its different forms. Straight, queer or somewhere in between, there's a desire articulated here that's for you.

9. Reaching for the Moon (Hulu)

Reaching/Moon Trailer

Reaching/Moon Trailer

This quiet, lovely indie drama tackles the true story of celebrated poet Elizabeth Bishop and her long-term partner, Brazilian architect Lota de Macedo Soares. Set in Brazil in the 1940s, this film unpacks repressed queer female desire and they way it can flourish and possess those wrapped up by it in a way that will entrance you.

10. Brokeback Mountain (Hulu)

Brokeback Mountain Trailer

Brokeback Mountain Trailer

Like Carol, Brokeback Mountain feels like required viewing for Pride Month. If you see no other queer movies during the month of June, at least set aside time to see this one. An award-winning film about two closeted modern-day cowboys who are forced to grapple with the ripple effect of their secret relationship over the course of their lives, Brokeback Mountain will leave you breathless.

11. Afternoon Delight (Amazon Prime)

Afternoon Delight Trailer

Afternoon Delight Trailer

Starring Kathryn Hahn (Bad Moms) and written and directed by Jill Soloway (Transparent), this film follows a discontent California housewife who undergoes a sexual reawakening — as well as some soapy melodrama — after offering a room in her home to a struggling sex worker.

More: 11 Kid-Friendly Movies Being Released in Theaters This Summer

In addition to these great movies, there's plenty more on Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime that focus on both LGBTQ and heterosexual identity, coming of age and more. You'll certainly never be short for viewing material, but in our humble opinion, the movies we've rounded up here are definitely the best way to start.

Kate Spade's Husband Released a Heartbreaking Statement About Her Death

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News of fashion icon Kate Spade's death sparked multiple rumors this week. Now, Kate's husband, Andy Spade has published a statement in The New York Times to set the record straight about her health and their marriage.

More: Designer Kate Spade Leaves Behind a Loving Family & Fashion Legacy

"Kate was the most beautiful woman in the world," Andy wrote. "She was the kindest person I’ve ever known and my best friend for 35 years. My daughter and I are devastated by her loss, and can’t even begin to fathom life without her. We are deeply heartbroken and miss her already."

He went on to address rumors reported in Page Six about alleged alcoholism and issues in their marriage as well as a private message Kate reportedly left.

"For the past 10 months we had been living separately, but within a few blocks of each other. Bea was living with both of us and we saw each other or spoke every day. We ate many meals together as a family and continued to vacation together as a family. Our daughter was our priority. We were not legally separated, and never even discussed divorce. We were best friends trying to work through our problems in the best way we knew how. We were together for 35 years. We loved each other very much and simply needed a break." He continued, "This is the truth. Anything else that is out there right now is false."

Multiple reports were published speculating about Spade's health, indicating that she refused to seek treatment for depression and that she was "a major alcoholic." In his statement, Andy denied both of these claims.

"Kate suffered from depression and anxiety for many years. She was actively seeking help and working closely with her doctors to treat her disease," he wrote. "She was actively seeking help for depression and anxiety over the last 5 years, seeing a doctor on a regular basis and taking medication for both depression and anxiety. There was no substance or alcohol abuse. There were no business problems."

More: Yes, People Who Are Depressed or Suicidal Can Look Like They "Have It All"

He also said that he is "appalled" that any portion of the note Spade left for Bea has been distributed to and through the media, ending his statement: "My main concern is Bea and protecting her privacy as she deals with the unimaginable grief of losing her mother. Kate loved Bea so very much."

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you live outside of the U.S., click here for a list of international hotlines.

How Appearing on an HGTV Show May Have Saved A Woman's Life

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When Dr. Erich Voigt settled in to watch an episode of the HGTV show Beachfront Bargain Hunt, little did he know that it would result in him saving a person's life. But when the New York-based ear, nose and throat surgeon from NYU Langone Health noticed a lump on the neck of a woman appearing on the show, he knew it didn't look right.

Voigt told ABC News that he immediately realized that the woman needed to see a doctor about the lump, but since the show never identified her, he knew he was in for a challenge. That's when he decided to try and use social media and posted a clip from Beachfront Bargain Hunt featuring the woman and her lump on Facebook and asked his connections on the site if they had any information about how he could get in touch with her.

More: How to Support Someone With Breast Cancer

"I am watching a tv show and notice this woman has a left thyroid mass. She needs a sonogram and fine needle biopsy," he wrote on his Facebook page. "I wonder if she knows and hope it's benign."

Luckily, he was able to get in touch with the woman — Nicole McGuinness — who had appeared on the show with her husband to purchase a beach house in North Carolina in celebration of the end of her treatment for brain cancer, People reported. Despite the fact that she had been treated for cancer, her doctors didn't notice the lump on her throat. McGuinness did see a specialist about the lump and was subsequently diagnosed with thyroid cancer, ABC News reported.

“It’s just a miracle, in my opinion, that he happened to see this on television. I can’t express how grateful and thankful I am," McGuinness told ABC News.

More: Signs of Ovarian Cancer You Might Miss

As it turns out, this is not the first time an HGTV viewer spotted what turned out to be a cancerous lump on the neck of someone appearing on a show. Back in 2013, a nurse watching the show Flip or Flop noticed a lump on the neck of Tarek El Moussa, one of the hosts of the show, People reported. Like McGuinness, El Moussa saw a specialist, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and was successfully treated for the condition. Here's hoping McGuinness will follow suit and make a swift recovery.

McDonald's Is Rolling Out Self-Serve Kiosks — Here's What You Need to Know

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McDonald’s is going to let you have it your way now too — in the form of self-serve kiosks at 1,000 locations nationwide.

More: Table Service at McDonald's? Yes, Please!

You’ve probably seen self-serve kiosks before, say, when you are checking in at the airport or out in the self-serve line at the supermarket. Now, you can order your Big Mac via a kiosk too. Of course, it also lessens the need to have manpower, and we wonder if it will cost some people their jobs.

The kiosk and mobile ordering will be rolling out over the next few years, and is actually not new. Australia, the U.K. and Canada all have them already.

More: McDonald's Is Launching a Vegan Burger

“If you think about only two years ago, if you were a customer there were two ways you can get served at McDonald's. You walked to the front counter and line up and take your drink and find a table or you go through the drive through,” McDonald’s CEO Steve Easterbrook told CNBC. “We're introducing many options. They can order through mobile, they can come curbside and we'll run it out as well as the existing traditional ways. You can pay in different ways and customize your food in different ways. I think we're trying to add more choice and variety,” he says.
Fans of self-service may love this idea, but that wasn't McDonald's only intention. Easterbrook said this is actually more of a business decision because when "people dwell more, they select more. There's a little bit of an average check boost."
It may be a business decision, but there's no doubt that customers will also benefit from not having to wait in long lines. I think we can all agree that waiting in a long line when you're hangry is the worst.
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