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The 5 Best Instant Pot Alternatives for Multifunctional Cooking

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The phenomenon that is Instant Pot has taken the pressure cooker world by storm. Now referred to as “multifunctional pressure cookers,” these pots are now digital, have upward of 20 modes of cooking and can make everything from meats to desserts. By having crammed a tremendous amount of uses into a single product, you can have yourself a full-blown meal with just the press of a button.

We have found some great options at a variety of price points should the original Instant Pot elude you. The products below come complete with similar functions, such as programmable food choices, one-touch cooking and extensive safety options, so all you have to do is choose the one that works best for you.

1. Gourmia digital pressure cooker

Slow Cooker Gourmia review

Gourmia’s Smart Pot electric digital multifunctional pressure cooker includes 13 cooking modes to make everything from meat and soup to desert and veggies. This smart pot cooks up to 70 percent faster than similar models while still retaining all the flavor and nutrients in the meals. An inner removable nonstick liner makes cleaning a dream, and a built-in lid rest means never having to place a hot lid on your counter again. A great value at under $70.

Gourmia digital pressure cooker, available at Amazon

2. T-fal programmable pressure cooker

The T-fal Cy505E 12-in-one programmable electric pressure cooker has 25 built-in smart cooking programs allowing you to combine meals to make in minutes. Twelve automatic functions allow you to press a button and do everything from cooking rice and oatmeal to reheating soup to keeping food warm. No need to keep your eye on the cooker; simply set the timer from five minutes to 12 hours and go enjoy yourself while dinner cooks itself.

T-fal programmable pressure cooker, available at Amazon

3. Cosori programmable pressure cooker

Pressure Cooker Cosari

The Cosori seven-in-one programmable pressure cooker is another multifunctional slow cooker option. With 13 preprogrammed cooking options, six pressure levels, the Cosori is customizable to use with any recipe and has an online database full of accessible recipes. Also included are nine safety mechanisms to ensure safe operation for daily use.

Cosori programmable pressure cooker, available at Amazon

4. Instant Pot 7-in-1

Pressure Cooker Instant Pot review

Probably the most popular option, the Instant Pot Duo is the No. 1-selling highly rated multicooker of the bunch. By combining seven kitchen appliances into one programmable pot, you can prepare a multitude of dishes 70 percent faster — great if you lead a busy lifestyle. Fourteen smart programs have been included, and with the simple press of a button, you can have many of your favorite dishes ready in no time. Instant Pot is so popular that it even has its own Amazon Alexa skill with 300-plus recipes, cooking videos, guided cooking and more.

Instant Pot seven-in-one, available at Amazon

5. Cosori programmable multicooker

Pressure Cooker Cosori review

Another option for the best-selling Cosori is their 8-quart, eight-in-one multicooker. This second generation version is their newest and features six new custom smart-control programs, improved performance and steam technology. Complete with six cooking programs and 17 smart programs, this pressure cooker is also certified safe, with nine safety mechanisms, and comes with a full recipe book.

Cosori programmable multicooker, available at Amazon

This story was originally published on Spy.com. This is e-commerce content. If you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.


Easy Jump Rope Exercises That Will Make You Forget You're Working Out

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If you think jumping rope is just for the playground, then you’ve never been a part of a hardcore double Dutch competition. With the fast footwork, core stability, arm movements and overall coordination, jumping rope is one of the most impressive workouts you can do. Not to mention it’s a whole lot of fun.

Why jumping rope is a great workout

You might be wondering how a rope with handles is such a great workout. But the fact is jumping rope is one of the best exercises for your body and mind. Fitness celebrity and personal trainer Jason Kozma says it’s actually hard to find another cardio exercise that burns more calories than jump rope. “Even if you’re jumping at a moderate rate, you burn 10 to 16 calories a minute,” he tells SheKnows. 

And if you have any minor aches and pains in your joints, you’re in luck. Kozma says you still get the benefit of increasing bone density when you jump rope, but it is easier on your joints than running because both legs absorb the impact of each jump. 

More: Most of Us Don't Exercise Enough — but These States Work Out the Least

How to incorporate jumping rope into your workout

What makes a jump rope such a smart fitness tool is the fact that you can incorporate it into any workout. Certified personal trainer Lyuda Bouzinova of Mission Lean recommends using it as your cardio warm-up at the beginning of a workout as well as interspersing it into your high-intensity interval training to raise your heart rate. 

For example, Bouzinova tells SheKnows that you can do one minute of jumping rope and then go into a plank (or any other move) for a minute, and you will burn more calories during the plank because your heart rate will now be elevated.

Another way to add in the rope is to make it part of your rest period. If you’re doing a strength-training workout and you typically rest for two minutes between sets, Bouzinova suggests grabbing a jump rope and busting out one minute of cardio. This allows you to get your heart rate up and still have one minute to rest, she explains. 

Tips for a heart-pumping workout

There are some things to consider before you start pounding out those double jumps. For example, certified strength and conditioning specialist and Pilates instructor Patrea Aeschliman of 15 to FIT tells SheKnows that we should be conscious of the fact that jumping rope can make your calves debilitatingly sore if you overdo it in your first few sessions.

You also need to pay attention to the surface you’re jumping on. “If you have any kind of lower-extremity injuries or back problems, I would recommend either a low-impact activity or at the very least jumping on a suspended floor, such as an aerobics floor at a gym or hardwoods at your house,” Aeschliman explains. Additionally, she recommends covering the wood with a yoga mat or jumping on top of a rug so you don’t scratch your home floors.

Finally, Kozma says to consider jumping rope on your off days, which is fantastic for recovery. “It boosts your blood flow and helps repair broken-down tissue,” he says. 

Sample jump rope exercises

You don’t have to mad skills like Rocky Balboa in order to get an amazing workout. In fact, starting with the basic moves may be your best option. Here, the experts share some of their favorite jump rope exercises and workouts that will make you forget you’re working out.

More: Why Even a Little Bit of Exercise Can Make a Big Difference

But before we jump into a few workouts, let’s go over some basic moves. Bouzinova likes to start with these four simple jumps.

  • Regular jumps: Just skip how you normally would. “This is a great way to start out your jump rope workout and get the hang of skipping before moving on to more complex moves,” she says.
  • Side-to-side jumps: Jump a few inches to your right and then a few inches to your left while keeping your feet glued together as though you have one leg, and keep repeating. “This takes the challenge level up a notch,” Bouzinova notes.
  • Jumping jack jumps: Start with your feet together and then jump out with your feet as you would when performing a jumping jack. Bring your feet back together and repeat. 
  • Backward jump: This is the same as the regular jump, but move the jump rope in the opposite direction (backward). 

Workout 1

Here are two of Kozma’s go-to jump rope tips that make a great workout:

  • Try to get as many jumps as possible in 30 seconds, then rest 30 to 90 seconds, then repeat for five to 10 cycles. The rest period will depend on your fitness level, but Kozma recommends sticking with a specific amount of time (for example, 30 seconds of rest). The goal is to keep your heart rate high and feel the burn in your lungs, your shoulders and your core.
  • For something light and fun, you can also pick a song that lasts three to five minutes and jump until it is over.

Workout 2 

Aeschliman recommends starting with intervals. “Do your best to complete a full minute of jumping without breaks, then a little side-to-side weight shifting 'pony' for you '80s aerobics fans,” she explains. Here is an example of a jump rope interval workout:

  • Do one minute of regular jumping, then switch to one minute of side-to-side.
  • Repeat this interval series eight to 10 times.

“A full minute of jumping is not just strenuous but takes some coordination to keep the rope going,” she adds. Her tip: Keep it up, as you will improve rapidly in the first few weeks and possibly even in your first session.

So, the next time you're looking for some variety in your workout, pick up a jump rope and get hopping.

How to Practice the Swedish Art of 'Lagom'

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It's fair to say we're a little invested in Scandinavian culture right now, and it goes way beyond lining our walls with Ikea furniture. We're hygge-ing out our homes or at the very least trying to add some gezellgig to them, while also suggesting more people take time out for fikaa coffee and pastry break, instead of (or in addition to!) happy hour. But just in case you thought you'd brought all the Nordic trends home, there's another you should know about: "lagom."

Pronounced LAH-gum, it is kind of like Sweden's version of mindfulness but rooted in a collective spirit and moderation. Lagom roughly translates to “not too little, not too much” or "just enough," though its full essence goes further than that. 

Sound like a vibe you need in your life? Here are just a few ways you can practice lagom.

1. Slow down

Lagom is largely about the art of slow living. Not rushing around so much, not always being driven by whatever the next great thing could be. Try taking more time to appreciate the experience you’re in, whether that’s savoring a success (rather than planning for the next one) or taking your morning routine at a more leisurely pace.

More: 11 Outdoorsy Date Ideas That Will Get You & Your Partner Off the Couch

2. Spend some time in nature

The Swedish take outdoor recreation time seriously. In her book Lagom: The Swedish Art of Balanced Living, Linnea Dunne says the Swedish have a rule called allemansrätten, which literally means "freedom to roam." It is a nearly universal right to access the outdoors. It doesn't have to be a butt-kicking hike, but rather whatever kind of activity that puts you in touch with nature. And lagom isn’t the only practice that utilizes this concept — you’ve probably heard about the Japanese practice of forest bathing. So take a walk by yourself in a nearby park, or a weekend trip to the mountains and let nature give you just enough of what you need. 

More: You Can Now Stay at the Great Wall of China Because It's on Airbnb

3. Simplify your possessions

Lagom may sound similar to the principles of minimalism, but rather than obsessing over how little you can live with, lagom is more about encouraging people to focus on having enough — knowing that those parameters change regularly. Dunne's book also recommends trying out a capsule wardrobe. The capsule should focus on the functionality and comfort of clothing to cut down on unnecessary closet clutter. At home, she suggests ample storage space and taking up hobbies like knitting that can be used to decorate your home.

More: Why You Should Definitely Have a Passport by Now

4. Try a little fika

We’ve written about the concept of fika before, essentially an additional break during the day for a coffee and pastry with friends. No surprise, fika is totally part of the lagom lifestyle. These coffee breaks are generally unrushed, cozy and full of conversation. And there’s plenty of science that suggests that breaks can improve your focus, so if you’re having trouble making an argument for why slowing down is useful, now you have it.

5. Focus on the success of the community

As Dunne writes, the Swedish culture she grew up in was focused intensely on rules and the collective well-being. While lagom is a more friendly approach, it still prides itself on “just enough” — because then everyone is getting their fair share. “A lagom attitude can help you feel part of something bigger and provide a sense of purpose,” she writes. Sounds like something we could all use right now.

Matt Lauer's Alleged Comeback Isn't Happening After All

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Despite rumors to the contrary, Matt Lauer — who was fired from NBC in November 2017 over alleged sexual misconduct — does not intend to make a play for the spotlight again anytime soon. Rather, the father of three reportedly plans to prioritize his family.

In an exclusive new interview, a source told People of the former Today anchor, “Matt doesn’t really socialize much with his friends anymore. He’s been staying close to home and laying really low and focusing all his energy on the kids. If he does go out, it’s for them. He supports his kids’ events.”

More: Matt Lauer Is Finally Talking After Months of Silence in Exile

Lauer, whom the source states still resides at his family’s Hamptons compound, has three children with estranged wife Annette Roque: sons Jack, 17, and Thijs, 11, and daughter Romy, 14.

Only one week ago, reports began circulating claiming that Lauer was poised for a return to TV. According to Page Six, a group of fans approached Lauer while he was out to dinner. When they told him they missed him, Lauer reportedly responded, “I’ve been busy being a dad. But don’t worry, I’ll be back on TV.”

However, intel from People’s source contradicts any such claims. Per the source, Lauer “is not planning any kind of TV comeback right now.”

Lauer has been lying low as of late, most recently spending Labor Day weekend alone aboard his yacht, Resilient. Prior to his solo boating excursion, Lauer attended the Hampton Classic Horse Show in Bridgehampton, New York, on Aug. 26. Although reports routinely peg Lauer’s divorce proceedings with Roque as contentious, the pair was spotted interacting at the event.

More: An Insider Claims Matt Lauer Is Headed for a Very Expensive Divorce

In July, news broke that Lauer and Roque were close to finalizing their divorce and a settlement had been reached. Per ET, Lauer would allegedly pay Roque roughly $50 million between property and a one-time lump sum of $25 million.

And while Lauer is said to be livid over the agreement, sources say he is primarily “embarrassed and ashamed” over what his life has become. Accordingly, he and his team are reportedly on the same page — “disappearing right now seems to be for the best.”

Sharp Objects Fans Are Gonna Love Patricia Arquette's Upcoming Hulu Series

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With HBO’s shifty mystery Sharp Objects now over, fans may understandably fear the dreaded showhole. And, really, how can you replace such a dark, smart series? Two words: The Act. According to Deadline, this upcoming series from Hulu is getting closer to fruition — and it is already shaping up to be just as twisted (and addictive!) as Sharp Objects. Bonus? The always brilliant Patricia Arquette and up-and-comer Joey King are set to star. 

With a build-up like that, you're probably wondering what the show's about, right? 

More: How Amy Adams Dealt With the Pressures of Filming Sharp Objects

The Act is a seasonal crime anthology series that boasts a disturbing backstory. Written by Nick Antosca and Michelle Dean, the series is rooted in real-life events. It’s based on a 2016 Buzzfeed article written by Dean called "Dee Dee Wanted Her Daughter To Be Sick, Gypsy Wanted Her Mom To Be Murdered," in which a young girl struggles to escape the toxic — quite literally — relationship with her mother. 

Per Deadline, King (The Kissing Booth) will play the show's daughter Gypsy, a “cheerful and gracious” girl whose illness keeps her confined to a wheelchair. Playing Gypsy’s overprotective mother will be Arquette, who’s sure to bring a tortured nuance to Dee Dee’s oppressive control over her daughter. 

More: 6 Things to Know About Sharp Objects

Things take a particularly dark turn when Gypsy, who has begun to explore her sexuality, stumbles across the truth that her lifelong illness has been an illusion created by her mother. She ultimately decides she wants her life back — and she wants to take her mother’s away. 

If this stranger-than-fiction true story sounds familiar, you may have already seen the documentary retelling. Ironically,  the same network responsible for Sharp Objects, HBO, produced 2017's Mommy Dead and Dearest. The documentary focused on Dee Dee’s Munchausen by Proxy syndrome and the tragic toll it took on Gypsy’s life. Does that ring a bell, Sharp Objects fans? 

More: Patricia Arquette Pointed Out a Huge Error in the Oscars In Memoriam Segment

This sort of external exposition about The Act’s main characters only adds to its intrigue. Although Gypsy is currently serving a 10-year sentence in prison for murder, she feels at peace… arguably for the first time in her life. “I get to start over,” she said in the documentary. “I’m newly born.”

Gypsy will be eligible for parole in 2024. She will be 32 years old. As for The Act, a premiere date hasn’t yet been released. 

7 Foods to Eat to Boost Your Sexual Health

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Want the best sex of your life? Of course you do. If you really want major success in the bedroom, you should head to your kitchen first. No, we don’t mean a romp on the kitchen counter (although that’s totally cool too). We’re talking about what’s in your fridge and pantry. 

It turns out there are a number of foods that can boost your sexual health, from fighting UTIs to keeping blood flowing to keeping your stamina up. See if any these seven foods recommended by medical professionals make you feel stronger and sexier than ever before.

Pumpkin seeds

Feeling lusty but still lagging? Snack on some pumpkin seeds. 

“Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, vitamins [and] minerals, and they contain tryptophan which can promote serotonin production to ward off depression and boost mood,” Dr. Jess O’Reilly, sexologist and host of the Sex With Dr. Jess podcast, tells SheKnows. “Since mood is a key predictor of libido, what you eat can affect how you feel about sex.”

More: Do Aphrodisiac Foods Really Work?

Beetroot & leafy greens 

Blood flow is essential for sexual stimulation for both men and women. “For increased blood flow, you want to up your beetroot and green leafy veggies intake so as to increase the production of nitric oxide,”  Dr. Felice Gersh, OB-GYN and the founder/director of the Integrative Medical Practice of Irvine, California, tells SheKnows. “Nitric oxide helps dilate arteries and keep the blood flowing freely and well.” 

Cranberries

Diet is important in treating those pesky urinary tract infections according to Amy Helms, a registered dietitian. 

“Cranberry juice is one natural remedy that works by flushing out your system,” Helms tells SheKnows. It is important to buy cranberry juice that is unsweetened and not from concentrate. Pure cranberry juice is high in a phytochemical known to reduce the ability of bacteria to adhere to the urinary tract. This enables you to pee out the bacteria.”

Cherries

While it might seem counterintuitive to want a good night’s sleep when it comes to a hot sex session, O’Reilly says some solid z's are actually imperative for it, which is why she suggests eating cherries.  

“Cherries are a source melatonin, the hormone that helps to regulate the circadian rhythm and promote a good night’s sleep," she explains. "Sleep improves your sex life by regenerating cells, beautifying your skin and reducing anxiety — all of these elements set the scene for hotter sex.”

Nuts

For an extra dose of stamina, try eating a handful of nuts. “Eating some walnuts, pistachios or almonds [is] a great post-workout boost,” says Gersh. “The combo of healthy fats and protein will do great things for energy, and your cardiovascular system will smile too.”

Apples

Helms recommends a healthy serving of foods rich in quercetin, which is found in apples. “This antioxidant, a type of flavonoid, may offer a number of health benefits, including playing a role in controlling symptoms of prostatitis and interstitial cystitis [a chronic bladder health issue], and it promotes circulation.” Quercetin is also found in berries, cherries, onions and dark-colored grapes.

More
Why the Brain Is Our Most Important Sex Organ

Oysters

“Oysters have long been considered aphrodisiacs for their resemblance to the vulva and the sensuality with which they’re consumed,” says O’Reilly. “But their nutrients also have the potential to enhance sexual performance, as they’re high in both zinc and amino acids, which are associated with the production of testosterone and other sex hormones.”

Before you head to your kitchen to help out your sex life, it’s important to remember that there's no single secret food or ingredient that will enhance your sex life. Gersh says that when people ask her for a surefire way to improve sexual performance, increase libido, reduce UTIs or improve blood flow, she tells them it doesn't quite work that way. 

"We are a united whole, and our bodies don’t have too many unique needs for specific foods for one organ vs. another," she explains. "We all need loads of vitamins, minerals, magic polyphenols from fruits and vegetables and basic nutrition, such as high-quality protein and fats.”

So there you have it: Yet another reason to eat a healthy, balanced diet.

How to Make Family Dinnertime Fun

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Sometimes, the last thing you want to do at the end of a long day is spend time preparing a family dinner so everyone can quickly gobble it down and get back to their homework/video games/tablets. We get it. But making the time to cook and eat with your kids can have significant benefits for their health and cognitive abilities. 

Research published in the journal New Directions for Child and Adolescent Behavior found that dining as a family can help improve literacy among children, as family conversations build their vocabularies and story comprehension. Another study from CASAColumbia found that teens who frequently participated in family dinners were less likely to experiment with alcohol and drugs. Still not convinced? Data collected by Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, indicated that families who ate meals together were typically healthier than those that didn't. Kids were more likely to chow down on fruits and veggies, and they were less likely to exhibit signs of depression. 

More: A Back-to-School Grocery List & Menu so You Don't Have to Worry About Meals All Week

All of that is well and good, but it doesn't solve a common problem nearly every parent has: How do you make family dinners fun for everyone so people actually want to sit down together every night? Here, we've gathered games and activities to help make dinnertime a breeze.

Enlist kids as your sous chefs

Create a restaurant vibe by asking your kids to help pick the menu and prep the meal. According to HealthyChildren.org, a website from the American Academy of Pediatrics, cooking with children can sharpen cognitive skills, help them get in touch with their senses and improve dexterity. It makes sense too. To be a good chef, you not only have to have great taste, but you also need to understand basic math (measuring) and science (temperatures). Additionally, you have to demonstrate that you can comprehend and follow recipe directions.  

Bonus: The more kids feel involved in selecting and preparing meals, the more likely they will be to eat up. 

More: Healthy Meal Hacks for Picky Toddlers

Ditch the screens & play games IRL

There are plenty of dinner games to play between bites to keep the whole family entertained. One particular game we love from The Family Dinner Project is the food poetry game. The rules are simple. Have everyone take a bite of their meals and ask them to briefly describe the taste, smell, textures and memories it brings up. Soon, you'll have a table surrounded by little Ralph Waldo Emersons. 

Other great games include:

  • A family-appropriate would you rather game in which you ask your kids silly questions like, "Would you rather be a shark or an eagle and why?"
  • The things that grow game in which you go around the table and name as many flowers, plants or trees as you can in a minute
  • The who's coming to dinner? game in which everyone picks a guest, deceased or living, and explains why they'd want to have them over to share a meal

More: 7 Ways to Add More Fruits & Veggies to Your Kid's Plate

Share the good, bad & the mediocre

Getting kids to talk about their days is something even celebrities like Kristen Bell struggle with from time to time. Yet parents everywhere continue to push through the "fines" and "goods" because they know how vital it is to take an interest in their kids' lives and keep lines of communication open. 

To make the conversation more enticing, tweak your approach. Instead of asking, "How was your day?" ask something like, "What was one thing that made you smile today and why?" By honing in on something more specific and asking for elaboration, you eliminate the opportunity for those pesky one-word answers. 

More: Quick & Easy Recipes for Busy Moms

Expand your horizons (& your taste buds)

Travel the world from the comfort of your kitchen table. Each month, have your kids pick a new country to learn about and explore. Throughout the week, research that country's cultural traditions, holidays, music and cuisines. Once a week, (say, Friday), have your kids help you select and prepare a meal from the region. While eating, discuss some of the fascinating things you learned. Delicious meals, great conversation and, best yet, no passports required.

Is Meghan Markle's Mom Taking Nanny Classes for the Reason We Think?

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There have been many milestones in Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s relationship that put the public on high alert. When they were dating, we waited for a ring to show up on Markle’s finger. When they were engaged, the wedding watch began. And, now, fans of the beloved royal couple are convinced a baby might be on the way — and they’re pointing to Markle’s mom, Doria Ragland, as proof.

Rumors began circulating that Markle and Harry had a bun in the oven after she was spotted in a loose-fitting dress on Thursday. The beautiful blue Jason Wu design featured ruffles cascading over Markle’s midsection, which fans argued could be the perfect camouflage for a baby bump. 

So, when Ragland was reportedly noticed taking nanny (or should we say granny?) classes at the Cradle Company, near her house in Los Angeles, speculation about a royal pregnancy really took off. According to the Daily Star’s Sunday edition, Ragland is preparing to make the move to the U.K. to care for her impending grandchild.

“Meghan wants to avoid hiring staff if possible once her first child arrives. The thought of having her mum move in with them and take on the role of baby nurse is the best possible solution to that,” a source told the outlet.

More: Meghan Markle Can't Wait to Be a Mom

And Grandma Ragland reportedly couldn’t be more excited to step in and help. Not only is it something she has “always wanted to do anyway,” per the Daily Star, Ragland is well-equipped to care for Markle and Harry’s future child — and the new mom, too.

“She already specializes in prenatal yoga. She’s learned everything from breastfeeding and lactation consultancy, basic baby care, CPR and first aid,” said the source. “The course also covers sleep training for later on, weaning and helping the new mother with her recovery.”

Although no official date for Ragland’s speculated permanent move has been revealed, Ragland may have gotten a jump start on the transition. On Friday, royal commentator Omid Scobie revealed on Twitter that “Duchess Meghan’s mom Doria Ragland visited Prince Harry and her daughter for an extended stay at their Oxfordshire home this summer.”

More: Prince Harry & Meghan Markle Won't Have Custody of Their Future Children — Um, What?

Per Scobie’s sources, Ragland continues to enjoy a close relationship with Harry and, as always, serves as a pillar of strength for her daughter.

Ragland and a potential royal baby in Buckingham Palace? The good news just keeps coming. Let the bump-watching commence!  


Shannen Doherty Is Singing a New Tune About the Controversial Charmed Reboot

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Since the CW announced it would be bringing back Charmed for a new iteration, the idea hasn’t exactly been a huge hit with cast members from the original late ‘90s version. However, one of those stars — Shannen Doherty — has now softened her stance on the controversial TV revival.

When news of the new series broke in January, Doherty said on Twitter that she wasn’t pleased with the way the network was promoting it. Essentially, by billing the reboot as “fierce, funny, feminist,” the CW seemed to be implying the original lacked those qualities.

More: We Don't Need a Charmed Reboot & Here's Why

Doherty retweeted a fan who pointed out how belittling that was to “everything that Charmed brought to the table.” The actor added, “Yep. You nailed it. Their wording is terrible and a bit offensive. But, everyone makes mistakes. Perhaps with the backlash they will be more thoughtful in future.”

Fast forward to this Friday, when ET’s Lauren Zima asked Doherty to weigh in on her current feelings about the new Charmed. “I think it’s great. I think it’s awesome. I think second lives are amazing, so I’m all for it,” the actor said of the reboot, which premieres Oct. 14.

But that’s not to say Doherty doesn’t stand by her sentiments about the importance of the original for women.

“I’m happy to see a show that, back then, was all about strong women who supported and loved each other, is now coming back again in this day and age. It’s about female empowerment again — not that that’s something new,” she clarified. “Charmed originally was that, too. But I think it’s wonderful, you know? And it’s providing a lot of jobs for people, and I honestly, I just wish them well. And I hope that everyone just gives them a chance.”

More: Shannen Doherty Gives Update After Returning to Work After Cancer Battle

Doherty, who played sister Prue Halliwell in the original Charmed, announced last April that the breast cancer she’d been battling was in remission. And, as difficult as that experience has been, Doherty admitted that it could be the reason she’s so much more likely to look on the bright side these days.

“I hate to be the person who goes, ‘Oh my God, the sky is so blue all of a sudden,’” she told ET. “But you really start noticing a lot more things around you and appreciating everything.”

Tiffany Haddish, Samira Wiley Help Make History at the Creative Arts Emmys

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The Emmys reached an exciting (and long overdue) milestone in diversity on Saturday night as black actors took home all four guest acting trophies.

Over the past two decades, the guest categories have only seen two instances in which black actors accounted for more than one winner — and then, in both 2003 and 2014, they won two of the four trophies in the category.

More: Tyler Perry Gave Tiffany Haddish a Tesla, & We're Officially in Tears

However, history was made at Saturday’s Creative Arts Emmys as Tiffany Haddish (for Saturday Night Live), Ron Cephas Jones (for This Is Us), Samira Wiley (for The Handmaid’s Tale) and Katt Williams (for Atlanta) swept the guest awards categories.

Some of the best roles on television today, right?

Adding to the impact of the evening was the fact that all four stars were first-time Emmy winners. Not to mention that Haddish’s win stemmed from another historic first — the guest-hosting gig on SNL for which she was nominated made her the first black female stand-up comic to host the show since its inception in 1975.

After his win, Cephas Jones commented on the likelihood that his beloved This Is Us character, William Hill, could have fared as well in the past. “It would have been difficult,” he said, per Deadline. “We are moving forward and moving ahead.”

More: An  OITNB  Writer Has an Unbelievable Love Story, All Thanks to the Show

That’s the hope, at least. The fact that all four winners of guest categories at this year’s Creative Arts Emmys were people of color certainly seems to suggest that television is finally making strides in telling more diverse stories.

The roles behind these awards are all inherently complex, something that television has historically failed to represent with any real parity in comparison to binary white characters.

Television networks appear to have taken note of the public’s demands for greater inclusivity and representation and are striving to do better. CBS, for example, rolled out a new roster of shows this year in which more than half featured actors of color.

More: A Guide to  This Is Us ' All-Star Cast & Where You've Seen Them

“We said that we were going to [improve representation],” CBS entertainment president Kelly Kahl told The Hollywood Reporter. “If you look at the schedule, we did what we said we were going to do.”

And with the Primetime Emmys just around the corner on Sept. 17, TV could once again prove that progress is being made. In addition to black actors like Sterling K. Brown and Donald Glover in position to repeat lead actor wins, Killing Eve’s Sandra Oh could take home the first lead actress in a drama Emmy for an Asian woman.

The Way Chrissy Teigen & John Legend Celebrated His EGOT Is #CoupleGoals

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During Sunday's 2018 Creative Arts Emmy Awards, history was made. John Legend became an EGOT winner and the first Black man to ever do so. Alongside Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice (who also became EGOT winners, those who've at least one Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony), Legend won an Emmy for outstanding variety special for NBC's Jesus Christ Superstar, Live in Concert

Legend joins a small list of EGOT winners. Previously, only 12 people had ever earned the achievement. So far, Legend has won 10 Grammys, he took home an Oscar in 2015 for his song "Glory" from Selma, and in 2017, he won a Tony for best revival of a play as a coproducer of Jitney

More: The 2018 Emmy Nominations Are in, & They're More Diverse Than Ever

He won his Emmy as a coproducer of Jesus Christ Superstar, but there's a chance he could win another Emmy come the 2018 Primetime Emmy Awards, which air on Monday, Sept. 17. Legend is nominated for outstanding lead actor in a limited series or movie for his role as Jesus Christ in the live musical production. 

"Before tonight, only 12 people had won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony in competitive categories," Legend wrote on Instagram next to a photo of himself, Rice and Webber. "Sirs Andrew Lloyd Webber, Tim Rice and I joined that group when we won an Emmy for our production of their legendary show Jesus Christ Superstar. So happy to be part of this team. So honored they trusted me to play Jesus Christ. So amazed to be in such rarefied air. #EGOT."

John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, EGOT 2018  

Of course, Teigen couldn't be prouder of her husband and his major achievement. Before he even got his EGOT, she tweeted after the Emmy nominations were announced in July, "13 nominations for Jesus Christ Superstar this morning! John got two emmy nominations! If he wins, he will complete his EGOT and my spike tv award will probably be moved. But it’s ok I AM SO PROUD!"

And now that he actually won an Emmy? Yeah, Teigen is over the moon, as proven on her Instagram and Twitter. She immediately took to her Instagram Story, capturing the moment Legend became an EGOT winner. She, of course, also shared their post-win celebration.  

More: 40 Times Chrissy Teigen Made Our Mouths Water on Instagram

More: 17 Times Chrissy Teigen Was the Queen of Social Media

Rather than partying into the early morning hours, Teigen and Legend went home, got comfortable in their robes and celebrated with some of the best breakfast food ever. Legend made them "EGOT pancakes." 

Per Teigen's Instagram Story, she declared, "John seriously makes the best pancakes on the planet." 

Here are the famous EGOT pancakes: 

John Legend, EGOT Pancakes  

Those sure look like some tasty pancakes.

It's no secret Teigen and Legend make an amazing couple. To see them celebrate Legend's major accomplishment in such a simple and relaxing way makes them an even more fabulous couple. They didn't need to dance at a club or attend a huge after-party all night long — all they needed was each other and some EGOT pancakes. They really are couple goals.

I Attempted Suicide, but I Didn't Want to Die

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The first time I tried to take my life, I was 17 years old. I remember the day clearly. Vividly. And, well, benignly. The day was like any other: I sat up. I got up and, reluctantly, I got dressed. 

But I knew when I got out of bed that morning it would also be my last day because I had written a note and made a plan. I had stockpiled what (I believed) would be enough pills to make me pass out. To make me sleep. To make me never wake up. 

And I was OK with that. I was OK with the notion of dying.

But I didn’t try to take my life because I wanted to die. (I really, really didn’t.) I tried to take my life because I didn’t know how to live. Because being and breathing had become too painful.

More: Suicide Rates in the U.S. Are Fast on the Rise

Of course, I know that may not make sense, especially to someone who has never experienced depression or struggled with a mental illness — an undiagnosed and yet-to-be treated mental illness. But depression does things to your mind. It makes you believe you are not good enough, you are not strong enough, and it tells you that you are helpless, hopeless, lost, crazy and alone.

But there’s more to it than that. Depression hurts. Literally. You feel a deep pang — an ache — in every bone, joint and cell of your body. You feel hollow. You know you are not. Air passes through your mouth and into lungs. In and out. In and out. But the space between might as well be nothing. You are empty. Your mind is racing but your body is vacant.

You are a ghost in a shell.

Feelings become nonexistent or all-consuming; you are void of them or completely overwhelmed. And all the happy and joyful memories of your life are destroyed. Cut off. Gone. They are erased like they never existed.

But you keep fighting because you can — because you should. Because it is is the only way to survive. But one day, it hits you: This war will never end. You are defender and aggressor. With a mental illness, your mind is both friend and foe.

And in that moment — that defeated, deflated moment — you give up. You surrender because death seems (hell, it sounds) like a relief. You know you want to end the pain, and you believe the only way to do so is to end your life.

But it isn’t. I promise you it isn’t. There is help. There is hope. There is light on “the other side.”

Of course, I would be lying if I said that the morning after my attempt — the morning I “woke up alive” — I was happy. I wasn’t. I felt scared and empty, like a failure and a fraud. But eventually, things got better. I got better, and with medication and therapy, I found happiness again. I found life again. I found myself again, the girl who was once full of joy and hope.

More: 13 Things Never to Say to Someone Who is Suicidal or Depressed

That said, it should be noted that my story is just that: my story. People attempt suicide for numerous reasons (and some may in fact want to die). However, many suicide attempt survivors echo similar sentiments. According to the Crisis Centre in British Columbia, most of “those at risk for suicide do not necessarily want to die... [they just] want help in reducing the pain they are experiencing,” and having both help and hope is why 60 to 70 percent of suicide survivors never make a second attempt according to Mental Health America

In other words, 60 to 70 percent of suicide survivors can go on to live full and happy lives. But first they need help. They need hope. They need a chance to survive.

So please, take every concern seriously. Take every joke or threat seriously, and if you know anyone exhibiting warning signs — if you know anyone talking about suicide; expressing an interest in suicide; and/or displaying hopelessness, helplessness, recklessness, apathy or any extreme personality change — talk to them now and take them seriously, because they are worth it. You are worth it. I am worth it.

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, visit SuicidePreventionLifeline.org, or text “START” to 741-741 to immediately speak to a trained counselor at Crisis Text Line.

Ashley Iaconetti & Jared Haibon Reveal Their Wedding Planning Headaches

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A few short years ago, it’s unlikely that any Bachelor Nation fan could have foreseen Ashley Iaconetti and Jared Haibon becoming one of the franchise’s most enduring pairs. Since they met on Bachelor in Paradise in 2015, their love story has been filled with breakups, make-ups and many, many tears (mainly Ashley’s). With their recently televised engagement, though, Ashley and Jared solidified their status in the canon of BiP’s aspirational couples — right alongside their close friends Jade and Tanner and Carly and Evan.

More: Ashley Iaconetti Already Has Big Plans for Life After the Wedding

What’s that old idiom, a lid for every pot? Despite so much back-and-forth in their history, these two ultimately turned out to be the perfect fit for each other. They gush about one another’s best qualities. They finish each other’s sentences — well, sometimes it’s more a case of Ashley finishing Jared’s sentences. But he lets her. He gets her. Somewhere along the way, their reality TV romance turned into the real deal. 

Fittingly, when you consider their tumultuous past, Ashley and Jared have teamed up with Excedrin to roll out the headache medicine’s new Limited Edition collections, including the oh-so-apt “Bad Date.” And when we had the chance to hop on a call with the genuinely happy duo, they were game to discuss everything from what gives them a premarital migraine to who'd play them in the rom-com of their life.

SheKnows: You’ve certainly had more than your fair share of headaches on the road to happily ever after. What are some of the biggest you’ve dealt with as an actual couple?

Ashley Iaconetti: Well, the most recent headache — that, thank God, we had Excedrin’s Limited Edition Bad Date Headache for — was Jared planning our proposal and maybe having to do it in front of an ex of mine.
Jared HaibonOr, yeah, just planning a proposal and finding out the day before you might have to do it in front of her ex.
AIThe day before.
JH: And then really just doing everything in my power to avoid that, and having it be to no avail. That caused a headache or two. 

SK: Yikes! That’s tough, because Paradise is a huge part of your love story. Were there any conversations with Kevin [Wendt, Ashley’s ex] before or after? 

AI: There was just sort of a "Hey," "Hello," "Congratulations," "Thank you so much."
JH: Once I knew that he was going to be there, I thought it best to just try to make it as painless as possible. 'Cause there was only really that one moment when we were in front of the group talking to them that I knew that we were going to see Kevin, and so I felt it was best to just go in there and make that part as quick as possible. Then Ashley and I would go on our way and do our own thing. Little did I know Chris Harrison was going to call the group over to watch our proposal. But, you know, you can’t control everything, unfortunately.

More: The Bachelor's Ashley Iaconetti Is Hosting a Brand-New Show

SK: We’ve heard that you’d entertain the idea of a reality show, which the world obviously needs right now. What would a reality series with you two look like? What would you want it to show? 

AI: Our daily lives, probably, and just him living with [me and] my sister in a three-bedroom apartment in West Hollywood. And then, of course, we’d want to incorporate some wedding planning. We’re going on a Royal Caribbean cruise this week, and our parents are meeting for the first time. We’re like, "Where are the cameras?!"
JH: There are so many moments with our friends from Bachelor Nation, too. Like, the amount of times when I’ve been hanging out with Nick [Viall] that I wish what he said was captured on camera, I just can’t tell you. I’d be a rich man if I had a nickel for every time I said that.

SK: Fans have always loved how honest you two are, including the way you addressed your virginity, Ashley. The new Bachelor, Colton Underwood, is fresh off of BiP and has been open about his virginity, too. Do you think the way that is being handled in regards to the new season is progressive or potentially exploitive? 

AI: I’ve been constantly confused throughout my own journey [as a part of Bachelor Nation] and now watching Colton. Why is this such a fascinating topic to people, that he’s a virgin? That was the little gimmick they had with me. Wait, why is that so crazy? Why dedicate so much TV time to it? 

SK: Let’s move on to some fun stuff and talk about your wedding! What has been the biggest wedding planning obstacle you two have overcome?

AI: That was another time we needed Excedrin Bad Date [laughs]. We got engaged about a year from the time we would have liked to get married. Then we started looking at venues last month, and we were like, "Wait, you’re telling us you have no Saturdays left next summer? Or you have, like, one Saturday and we have seven days to decide on it?" So, we just had our wedding planner come out to Rhode Island this week, and we think we have finally figured out what we’re going to do. It’s very exciting and we love the place, but we’re not going to talk about where it is just yet. Prices are also a headache!
JH: Prices are the No. 1 headache right now.
AI: Honestly, the first place we went to, they said, "This is the best discount we can do for you guys." They told us, "We’re going to give you a discount because we think it’d be pretty cool if you got married here." Then they gave us the estimate, pushed us the papers, and it was $100,000. So, we’re like, "OK, this is going to be scary." That turned out to be — we felt — not anywhere near that amount of value. Nor do I think anything is really worth that much [laughs].
JH: It’s, "Hey, it costs this much to rent the place out. By the way, it’s $2 per chair, times that by 200. Oh, and it’s going to be about $150 per person for food, and your guest list is right around 200, so you can do the math on that." It’s like, what the hell is going on here? 

SK: Are there any Bachelor Nation folks who’ve already sent in their RSVPs for the wedding?

AI: Oh, we have a good list of about 30 people from production and cast combined. Obviously, there are certain people who are going to be at our wedding, like Nick, Jade, Tanner, Carly, Evan. But everybody will find out soon enough who will be there.

More: Ashley Iaconetti Reveals How Jared Haibon Made Bachelor Nation History

SK: Exciting stuff! As two favorites in Bachelor Nation, I’d imagine there’s no shortage of attention from the fans (and the paparazzi). How do you two connect in your downtime these days? 

AI: Sitting at home, ordering from Postmates and watching House Hunters or Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
JH: Honestly, we kind of miss the days sometimes —
AI: Oh, we miss just being able to chill and be home. It’s just been nonstop.
JH: In a very good way —
AIIn a very good way! We don’t complain about it at all, we just...
JH: It’s just really nice to be able to go home and zone out and not have to really worry about other things we have to get done or even go to.
AI: And that’s like every other couple. Every couple’s busy. But it’s been a whirlwind, especially since we announced our engagement.
JH: Our family and friends keep us very even-keeled. Anytime we go to visit home — whether it’s Virginia or Rhode Island — it really kind of centers us, which is nice to have. 

SK: Finally, it feels like your love story is literally like a romantic comedy. If you could pick, who would you two want to play you in the rom-com movie of your romance?

JH: Mine comes down to two choices. Neither would probably do it, but I’d like either Ashton Kutcher or Tom Cruise to play me. Or... Zac Efron! How about that? I want Zac Efron to play me. He’s far better looking than me, but you know what? Screw it.
AI: I feel like Lea Michele could probably play me.
JH: I think Kim Kardashian should play her.
AI: We kind of have similar features. But Lea Michele, I feel like she could really bring my drama. 

How to Talk to Your Kid About Sexual Orientation

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When teaching introduction to gender and sexuality courses, I often include a survey exercise meant to highlight the ubiquitous assumptions of heterosexuality in our society. One of the questions included in the survey asks heterosexual students to recall when they “came out” as straight. The point is that straight people rarely (if ever) have to come out in the same way that folks in the queer community do.

Like most single parents who identify somewhere on the lesbian/gay/bisexual/queer spectrum, I will have to “come out” to my kid someday. Coupled parents of many sexualities typically do not have to disclose their sexuality, with the exception of some hetero-partnered bisexual and queer folks. Though it may be queer legend, I’ve heard several stories about the children of queer parents for whom queerness is so normalized that they actually come out to their parents as straight. (Myth or not, I love these stories!)

More: How to Talk to Kids About Gender

OK, you may be saying, "College age is fine, but won’t talking to young kids about different sexualities lead to their hypersexualization?" The answer, quite simply, is no. You know what leads to the hypersexualization of children? Shirts for little boys that read “future heartbreaker” — or the fact that you can barely buy anything for girl children that isn’t pink and frilly (or sometimes even low-cut?!).

Being honest with children about the different ways of loving that exist in our world is good parenting. It also means that if your child ends up identifying in any way other than heterosexual, they won’t feel as if something is wrong with them.

"OK, I’m with you," you say. "But where do I begin?"

More: 7 Ways to Be a Good Parent to Your LGBTQ Child

First, be open and honest and talk to your children about all different types of relationships in an age appropriate way. It doesn’t mean that you have to go into detail about sex acts or that your kids need to identify with any of the possibilities. They simply need to know that different relationships other than heterosexual ones exist. Talking about “lifestyles” rather than sexual choices can be useful, and is a good way to bring in conversations about asexuality and nonmonogamy. This can be through books, cartoons or movies or just through everyday conversations.

Second, flip the script when people talk to or about your child (or other people’s children) in a heteronormative way. Maybe little Johnny will break boys’ hearts. Perhaps little Suzy will marry a woman someday — or not get married at all!

Third, expose your kids to different types of relationships at an early age. For some of us this is easier than others. But even if there are no queer parents at your kid’s school (that you know of), you can still take your kid to the closest pride celebration or buy them a book about Harvey Milk.

More: Where Is the Maternity-Wear for Queer Folks?

Finally, make sure that the kids in your life know that you have their back, regardless of who they end up being attracted to (or not). In the current political climate, this is especially important since children hear and see more than we think they do and may be scared about renewed antigay backlash.

Talking to your kids often and early about different relationships means that the survey in my intro to gender and sexuality classes will eventually become unnecessary. More important, it means that the assumption of heterosexuality will become less and less ubiquitous in all our everyday interactions. It is my hope that this will become the case, and by the time my 6-month old is a teenager, she won’t have to come out to me, whatever her sexuality.

Google Releases App That Helps People Reduce Waste

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The conversation and action around reducing waste is far from over.

We've seen coffee chains (Starbucks), fast food restaurants (McDonald's) and grocery stores (Aldi) take steps to make a more positive impact on the environment — be it banning plastic straws; offering recyclable, compostable cups; or reducing energy consumption.

Now, Google is joining the eco-friendly movement, specifically to help educate people and allow them to understand the environmental impact of their waste as well as provide "simple, science-based ways to improve it."

More: 11 Ways to Go Green Without Blowing Your Budget

Partnered with the California Academy of Sciences, Google released an app called Your Plan, Your Planet, which aims to give people the resources, tools and tips they need to make small changes at home.

Your Plan, Your Planet is broken down into three topics: energy, food and water. 

Under energy, the app informs readers that a lot of the energy we use comes from burning natural resources, which releases CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalents) into the air. As you click through, the app guides you through a list of questions about your living situation. Questions include: How many rooms are in your home? How many hours do you keep your lights on? And so forth. As you submit answers, the app offers tips on how you can conserve energy, dropping knowledge bombs such as, "Energy efficient bulbs expend 75 percent less energy and last eight times longer than incandescent bulbs. Swap yours out to see how much energy you can save."

The other two sections, food and water, are similar: You answer questions, and Google offers tips and suggestions on how you can reduce waste. For instance, in the food section, the app will ask what kinds of food you've thrown away in the last week, how you store food and more.

"Food production accounts for over two thirds of the world's water use and nearly a quarter of CO2e," the app informs.

More: 12 Eco-Friendly Kitchen Swaps That Will Also Save Your Wallet

And for water, the app states: "The average American family uses 300 gallons of water each day. That would fill three swimming pools in a year! Learn things you can do at home to slow your flow."

Google makes it easy to track your progress; simply sign in.

In the end, Google wants to arm you with the knowledge and know-how to make small changes in your day-to-day. And we're 100 percent on board.


All the Weird Food Rules the Royal Family Has to Abide By

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The glamorous events, the lavish dinner parties, the downright stunning dresses: Living the royal family lifestyle appears glorious to us mere plebes. But look a little closer, and you'll come to realize that with great power comes great responsibility a laundry list of royal family rules. 

From traveling do's to even more royal family don'ts, the many royal rules affect nearly every single aspect of their lives — including what and how they eat.

Below, we've gathered all the interesting food rules the royal family must follow — and for many, we have former royal family private chef Darren McGrady, who worked for the family from 1982 to 1993, to thank for spilling them.

More: Royal Rules Meghan Markle Will Have to Abide by After Marrying Prince Harry

Formal wear is a must at dinner

In an interview with Marie Claire in October 2017, McGrady said the family would come down to dinner in "dressy ball gowns" and sit at the table "like a Downton Abbey dinner."

"They would come in for afternoon tea by the log fire in outdoor clothes, and then they'd all change for dinner," he said. "All the fine china was brought out. At the end of the meal, a bagpipe player would walk around the table."

It's perfectly OK to eat fast food

McGrady also revealed in the same interview that Princess Diana canceled the lunch the chefs had planned one day to take Prince William and Prince Harry to McDonald's.

"The boys loved McDonald's and going out to pizza and having potato skins — sort of the American foods," he said. "They were royal princes but had children's palates."

Queen Elizabeth II chooses her meals well in advance

The queen chooses her dishes from a menu book delivered to her — and selects her meals at least three days in advance.

"At Buckingham Palace, we'd do a menu book that we'd send up to the Queen and she could choose the dishes she wanted," McGrady said in the Marie Claire interview. "The book would come back to the kitchen and we'd prepare them."

As far as servings go, she eats small portions four times a day according to McGrady in an interview with RecipesPlus.

Dinner parties are planned to a tee

You didn't think guests simply showed up and grabbed whatever seating they wanted, did you? Please.

For Swedish royal family events, the seating at dinner parties is strategically planned by The Office of the Marshal of the Court. 

"We are what you could call ‘mini hosts,' and we make sure that the guests find their seats and particularly, that they enjoy their evening," say grand master of ceremonies Lars Grundberg and master of ceremonies Jan-Eric Warren on the Swedish Royal Court's website. "The royal family may only have time to speak to 10 or so guests at a dinner, and it is our job, together with the other members of the Royal Court taking part in the dinner, to see to it that all the guests have a pleasant evening."

During dinner, the queen even follows certain protocol on which dinner guest she speaks with when: During the first course, she will speak with the person on her right. During the second course, she'll engage in conversation with the guest on her left. 

Utensils aren't just for eating

Back in the U.K., utensils also allow you to signal to the staff if you're done with your meal or not.

According to Business Insider, if royals need to step away from the table but they haven't finished their meal, they must cross their utensils — so the staff doesn't remove their plate.

If royals are done with their meal, they must place their utensils side by side at an angle, with the handles facing the bottom-right of the plate.

And if royals need to use the restroom? Easy. They simply say, "Excuse me," and leave.

Knives right, forks left

Also according to Business Insider, the royal family must use utensils a certain way: Knives go in the right hand, and are used to scoop food to the back of the fork before the food is brought to the mouth. Forks are held in the left hand and must always face the plate.

More: 11 Royal Traditions Meghan Markle's Broken Already

There are rules to using a napkin

To use a napkin, royals must fold them in half and then use the surface area inside the fold to wipe their faces to prevent their clothes from getting stained. 

The queen's purse

If the queen puts her purse on the table, it signals it's time for everyone to leave, and quick — within the next five minutes according to Reader's Digest.

If the queen stops eating, everyone else does too

The second the queen finishes her meal, the royal family and all guests must also stop eating.

According to Kate Hubbard, author of Serving Victoria: Life in the Royal Household, Queen Victoria ate so fast, guests would find their plates removed within 30 minutes. 

"She was a hearty eater and she was a fast eater," Hubbard said, confirming in a 2013 interview with The Splendid Table that when the queen was done eating, "your time was up."

However, there are times that Queen Elizabeth II will leave "a little morsel on her plate to push around in order to let others finish their meals," according to BBC News.

The right way to drink tea

Because members of the royal family take part in a lot of afternoon tea sessions, they're required to hold the cup a certain way. 

First, they pinch the top of the handle with their thumb and index finger. They then place their middle finger to support the bottom of the handle. They must also always ensure the handle of the cup is kept at 3 o'clock, and women are to sip from the same spot in order to keep the lipstick stain in the same spot on the rim.

No garlic, onions, shellfish, potatoes, rice — & spaghetti is rare

On MasterChef Australia, Duchess Camilla of Cornwall revealed that garlic is forbidden — so much so, it's reportedly banned from Buckingham Palace.

McGrady confirmed this in the Marie Claire interview too, saying, "The Queen would never have garlic on the menu. She hated the smell of it, she hated the taste of it." He also told RecipesPlus that the chefs "can never serve anything with garlic or too many onions."

However, Express reports that Duchess Meghan (née Markle) of Sussex is allowed to eat garlic in private.

As far as long pasta and tomato sauces go, BBC News states the two items shouldn't be served unless it's for a special occasion. 

And, lastly, McGrady told The Telegraph in a September 2015 interview that you'll rarely see potatoes and rice served for dinner at Buckingham Palace because the queen doesn't eat starches.

Shellfish is also banned — both at the dinner table and while traveling — because it could lead to food poisoning and allergic reactions, which makes perfect sense.

The royals love their seasonal foods

McGrady also told RecipesPlus that the queen won't accept foods that aren't in season.

"You can send strawberries every day to the Queen during summer at Balmoral [Castle] and she'll never say a word," he said. "Try including strawberries on the menu in January, and she'll scrub out the line and say don't dare send me genetically modified strawberries. She absolutely does eat seasonal."

Meryl Streep Stole the Show During the US Open Championships

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Meryl Streep has had a long, lucrative career as one of the best actors in Hollywood, and it's obvious why. No one can emote quite like she can, even when she's an audience participant at a major sporting event. On Sunday, when Streep was in the audience at the U.S. Open for the men's final match between Novak Djokovic and Juan Martín del Potro, Twitter just could not get enough of her facial expressions or reactions to the match.

More: Celebrities Who Are Having the Best Time at the 2018 US Open

Vox reported on Streep's best moments, including when ESPN tweeted her expression in comparison to the both-hands-on-the-face-shocked emoji.

Vox noted that the moment she lifted her Heineken in tribute to the announcers isn't eligible for an Emmy, but the way people on social media reacted, you wouldn't know that. Folks took to Twitter during Sunday's match to give their cheeky two cents on what was unfolding, not on the court — but rather in the stands. 

Streep's expressive behavior didn't slip by Tasmanian radio show hosts Jimmy and Nath, who tweeted, "Meryl Streep just won the Oscar for 'Best Crowd Member US Open 2018'" along with trophy and tennis ball emoji.

A fan tweeted, "It’s so crazy that Meryl Streep won every event at this year’s US Open. I honestly didn’t even know she was entered but hey that just shows the depth of tennis in this era."

Several people also tweeted about the moment Streep realized the announcers were not only showing her visage live, but talking about her reactions to the match.

"Hilarious moment as Meryl Streep realizes they're talking about her on air," tweeted BBallBreakdown along with a video of Streep indirectly interacting with the announcers on camera.

Portuguese tennis account @BreakPointBR tweeted a GIF of the Heineken moment, captioning it, "Meryl Streep offering beer. Perfection." Another user tweeted a still shot of the toast and wrote, "I never knew I wanted to see Meryl Streep holding up her beer at the US Open, but i did. So thank you!"

More: 10 Women Who Changed Hollywood History

We love that Streep wears her heart on her sleeve, even at a tennis tournament. These new reaction GIFs will surely be used for months to come all across social media.

Olivia Newton-John Receives 3rd Cancer Diagnosis

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Actor, singer, songwriter and activist Olivia Newton-John is facing yet another health battle; on CNN-affiliate Seven's "Sunday Night" show, Newton-John revealed she has been diagnosed with cancer... again.

More: Olivia Newton-John Postpones Tour as She Prepares to Battle Breast Cancer Again

This is Newton-John's third cancer diagnosis in three decades. She first was first diagnosed with breast cancer, which she overcame, in 1992. She was diagnosed a second time in 2013, at which time the cancer had spread to her shoulder, and now, she is facing cancer of the back. 

Newton-John has a tumor at the base of her spine, she told CNN.

That said, the good news is that Newton-John has begun treatment. According to the interview, she is eating healthily, undergoing radiation treatment and taking cannabis oil to relieve her pain — something that has been a huge relief.

"I'm very lucky I live in a [U.S.] state where [cannabis oil is] legal... my dream is that in Australia, soon it will be available to all the cancer patients and people going through cancer or any kind of disease that causes pain," Newton-John told Seven.

When asked if she was scared, Newton-John said, "No, I don't go there. I'd be lying if I said I never go there. There are moments — I'm human. If I allowed myself to go there, I could easily create that big fear. But my husband's always there, and he's there to support me."

More: Olivia Newton-John on Her Cancer's Return & Using Medical Marijuana

"I believe I will win over it," she said, adding, "That's my goal."

And we are confident Newton-John will do just that.

How to Pack a Bento Box

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Oh, bento boxes, how we love thee! Bento boxes don’t allow different foods to touch, warding off a common kid complaint. Their individual compartments make them easy to deconstruct and clean. They also break down meal planning and lunch packing into a formula, taking at least a little stress out of the process.

Thanks to one of our favorite mealtime accessories, pulling together school lunches can become easier and faster — without any pushback from your children. With the guide below, packing a bento box is as easy as one, two, three, four. 

This post is sponsored by Applegate®

Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds Celebrate Their Wedding Anniversary With Jokes

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Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively celebrated their sixth wedding anniversary on Sunday, but they of course didn't get super-sappy about it — at least not on social media. Neither of them addressed the day itself on Instagram or Twitter, although Lively did promote her upcoming film, A Simple Favor. A couple of days before their anniversary, Reynolds also promoted his alcohol brand, Aviation Gin, and Lively couldn't help but leave a comment on the post.

More: Anna Kendrick Is Getting Between Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds

Reynolds posted an Instagram photo of an Aviation Gin-branded truck featuring a picture of the product and a huge, smiling picture of Reynolds himself. The text on the truck reads, "Driver does not carry cash, just Aviation Gin," a quote attributed to Reynolds. 

In the post, he wrote, "Turns out the driver really doesn’t carry cash. But he DOES carry pepper spray... and a shitload of @aviationgin #Aviationowner."

Lively commented on the photo in a supportive but still totally teasing way. She wrote, "Who needs a mini van?! I'm driving this from now on. Subtle, gorgeous, and OHMYGAWDYOUREHUGE."

Lively isn't wrong. Reynolds' visage takes up the majority of the branded truck. We love the subtle implication that he is gorgeous, not just the advertisement itself. Well played, Lively. Well played.

These two are known for trolling each other, from faux social media feuds to interview jokes about the status of their relationship. After six years of marriage, it's honestly refreshing to see they haven't lost their senses of humor, as individuals and as a couple. 

More: Ryan Reynolds Trolls Blake Lively (Again) & Confirms She's Tough as Nails

We don't know how Reynolds and Lively actually spent their anniversary or if they did anything special at all, but that's cool. We don't need to know every detail of their lives. The funny stuff is enough.

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