Quantcast
Channel: What's New
Viewing all 33701 articles
Browse latest View live

DIY bookmarks using paper clips, twist ties and labels

$
0
0

Supplies

You can make these bookmarks with supplies you already have around the house.

Supplies:

Paper clips
Twist ties
Labels
Markers

1. Wrap the twist tie around one end of the paper clip.

attached

2. Cut the labels in half.

Cut

3. Wrap the label around the twist tie. Use the marker to write on the bookmark.

Wrap

4. Use scissors to round the corners, if you like.

5. Repeat for additional bookmarks.

Additional books

You can use the bookmarks to mark your stopping place in a single book for multiple class sessions — so you always know where to begin again. Or you can use the bookmarks for class lesson planning, marking a poem or passage you want to share with students each day of the week.

Book mark

More fun craft ideas

Children's book crafts
17 Homemade gifts for teacher
Chalkboard quote tutorial


Colin Farrell confirms his True Detective Season 2 lead

$
0
0

Colin Farrell on True Detective? The Season 2 rumors heat up >>

We haven't seen a whole lot out of Colin Farrell lately, so this comes as welcome news. The superhot former bad boy should do a fine job in the gritty HBO crime drama. More importantly, this means roughly eight weeks of staring into those gorgeous dark eyes. The star confirmed his casting to Ireland's SundayWorld.com.

"I'm doing the second series. I'm so excited," Farrell shared. "I know it will be eight episodes and take around four or five months to shoot. I know very little about it, but we're shooting in the environs of Los Angeles, which is great. It means I get to stay at home and see the kids."

True story: True Detective's new director shares who he wants for the cast >>

We've spent months reporting on every True Detective rumor that has come through. This casting was absolutely worth the wait, but there are still plenty of roles left undecided. For instance, who will be cast as Farrell's partner? The show's new director, Jeremy Lin, has mentioned how much he'd love Mad Men's Elisabeth Moss or Rachel McAdams for the part. There were also those hideous Jessica Chastain rumors. The only slightly more solid leads anyone has are "sources" naming Taylor Kitsch and Vince Vaughn for other roles in the series. Friday Night Lights star Kitsch is rumored to play yet another detective, while Vaughn is said to be on tap to star as someone at the heart of the corruption running rampant in the city. Are these, or any of the other rumors flying around, true? Who knows.

Whoever else joins the cast of True Detective Season 2, we know Farrell's lead will make it the perfect run.

Want more TV news and reviews? Sign up for our newsletter >>

Weekly horoscopes: Sept. 22-28

$
0
0

aries

taures

gemini

cancer

leo

virgo

libra

scorpio

sagittarius

capricorn

aquarius

pisces

{pageBreak}

ARIES (March 20-April 18)

You’ve often talked about how you’d run things if you were in charge, so it may come as a surprise to find yourself in the driver’s seat on Sept. 22. Your first reaction will be to climb back out again, but give yourself time to get used to the idea. It’s true that Aries people make better soldiers than generals; however, you’ve acquired a lot of experience from life in the trenches, and here’s your chance to put that experience to good use. You could discover that you’re better suited for a leadership position than you think.

Up next: Taurus horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

TAURUS (April 19-May 19)

Uranus in that part of your solar chart that pertains to self-undoing will either make you the author of your own defeat or it will force you to confront the skeletons in your family closet and put them to rest. Whether you’re struggling with psychological proclivities, depression or a physical predisposition, it’s time to break the chain that links you to the past. Thankfully, Jupiter’s presence in Leo shows that you have the faith and perseverance to do all of this. You know what you have to do. All you have to do is do it.

Up next: Gemini horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

GEMINI (May 20-June 19)

There’s trouble brewing at work. You can tell something’s up even though people will quickly say that everything’s cool. The best way to deal with this is to do nothing. Let developments unfold on their own. This puts the onus on a supervisor to come forward and say what’s wrong. Right now you are protected by the wording in a contract or agreement. Nobody can do anything against you. Yet this won’t stop anyone from trying to coerce you into saying or doing something questionable. You’ll want to mind your p’s and q’s over the next six weeks.

Up next: Cancer horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

CANCER (June 20-July 21)

You thought that you would be left hanging in limbo, but this week’s Jupiter/Uranus trine has other designs for you in mind. Look for an extraordinary money-making opportunity to come spinning your way on Sept. 25. It’s bound to be out of this world and unlike anything you were expecting. Your first reaction may be to laugh it off but don’t. Uranus' energy is game-changing energy, which means that the more farfetched the prospect, the more likely the success for you. You may have to revisit certain commitments. If so, then do it before Oct. 4.

Up next: Leo horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

LEO (July 22-Aug. 21)

It’s time to lift your sights and to march boldly into your future. It’s true that you’ve had to contend with a number of personal obstacles and emotional travails — especially when it comes to home and family — but if you look back over the past few months, then you will also see how much progress you’ve made. You are a child of the Sun. Your maxim is “the Sun always rises on a new day.” It isn’t easy being a stubborn optimist; however, the Jupiter/Uranus trine on Sept. 25 should give you some much needed cosmic confirmation.

Up next: Virgo horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

VIRGO (Aug. 22-Sept. 21)

There’s always a certain someone that you know you should steer clear of, but you can’t. Maybe it’s the sibling you hope will clean up her act, the friend you want to believe in (but never delivers) or the co-worker who alternates between rival and confidante. In any case, it looks like you will be drawn back into this person’s orbit. And once again, she will act true to form. So, is this happening because you’re a masochist? Possibly. However, the upcoming Mercury retrograde portends that things might turn out differently this time — and for the better.

Up next: Libra horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

LIBRA (Sept. 22-Oct. 21)

The Sun enters Libra on Sept. 22. For the next four weeks you will be at the peak of your powers. You’ll feel revitalized, rejuvenated and like you’re on top of the world. You’ll need this boost in confidence because you’ll be undergoing major life-changing developments on Oct. 4, 7 and 8. These are all for the best, although it may not feel that way. You are in the process of clearing away the deadwood and setting up the kind of life you’ve always wanted. Be choosy about whom you want to involve in your next chapter.

Up next: Scorpio horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

SCORPIO (Oct. 22-Nov. 20)

Year 2014 has been a risky year for you career wise. The first six months were so bad that you were wondering if you had made a serious miscalculation. Thankfully, Jupiter’s entrance into Leo last July calmed all of your fears as it brought a positive move right when you needed it. On Sept. 25, Jupiter will form a remarkable trine to Uranus in Aries. Not only will this build on the momentum of the past few weeks, but it will also bring an unexpected breakthrough or coup. It’s the very thing you need to put you over the top.

Up next: Sagittarius horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 21-Dec. 20)

Are you being given a second chance? It will sure look that way when your ruling planet, Jupiter, trines Uranus on Sept. 25. Uranus is the planet of revolution in astrology. We often think of “revolution” as a revolt, but “revolution” also refers to something coming around full circle, like in a full turn of the wheel. Think back to where you were 12 years ago, and you will see that you’re being given a second chance to get things right in your relationship, your career or maybe just your life. Thank heavens that you’re older and wiser.

Up next: Capricorn horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

CAPRICORN (Dec. 21-Jan. 18)

You know all of that life-changing stuff you thought was supposed to happen to you earlier this year? Dramatic developments that promised to transform your career, your relationship and your status in life? Well, that will all be taking place over the next four weeks. You will want to clear your schedule, rest up and visualize in your mind the things that matter most. You will soon be racing around like one of those game show contestants who’s been told that she has three minutes to fill up her shopping cart at her favorite store.

Up next: Aquarius horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

AQUARIUS (Jan. 19-Feb. 17)

It’s been a long time since you hung out with a group of like-minded individuals. This could be your current roster of friends, co-workers or fellow students in your culinary class. What’s wonderful is that you feel like you’re fraternizing with people who truly get you. This kind of camaraderie is rare, empowering and ultimately creative. It’s why you should let yourself paint on the widest possible canvas. Talk about your hopes and aspirations without editing yourself. Not only will these people understand, but they probably have some great ideas about how you can make that happen.

Up next: Pisces horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

PISCES (Feb. 18-March 19)

Developments that you thought lay further down the road will suddenly be front and center on Sept. 25. This is when a fiery trine between Jupiter and Uranus shows that the sought after future could be yours today. All you have to do is take action. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done. Pisces people tend to hesitate at the threshold of substantive change. You say it’s fear of disappointment, but it’s really fear of success. Make yourself follow through with what’s in play. Fulfillment may be a taste that’s unfamiliar, but it’s still a taste worth acquiring.

More in horoscopes

Weekly love horoscopes: Sept. 22-28
What's your color horoscope?
What's your hair horoscope?

Love horoscopes: Sept. 22 – Sept. 28

$
0
0

aries

taures

gemini

cancer

leo

virgo

libra

scorpio

sagittarius

capricorn

aquarius

pisces

{pageBreak}

ARIES (March 20-April 18)

You can expect exciting developments in your love life when Jupiter forms a trine to Uranus on Sept. 25. This could be when you realize that a friendship is more than a friendship, when feelings you thought were on a low flame suddenly roar to life, or it may be when you take that next bold step forward in your life together as a couple. These two planets together always usher in larger than life changes. Who you were before will not be who you are afterwards — and this will all be for the better.

Up next: Taurus horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

TAURUS (April 19-May 19)

How do you talk to a loved one when you feel like he's on the brink of making a disastrous decision? You talk to him in a way that you wish someone would talk to you when you're feeling afraid and unsupported. You know that getting pushy, nagging or provocative won't work. You also know that you can't sit by and watch him make a mistake. Be comforting, reassuring and persistent. He's not as stubbornly set in his ways as you think. You'll be amazed by how quickly he'll open up to you given the right gentle nudging.

Up next: Gemini horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

GEMINI (May 20-June 19)

Demands at work are taking up all of your attention. In fact things will be so hectic that even the idea of getting together with your boyfriend feels like a chore. This is one of those times when you just have to trust that people can take care of themselves. Your boyfriend doesn't have to be entertained 24/7. You don't have to keep coming up with fun things to do to keep his interest. In a strange way the fact that you will be otherwise engaged gives him a chance to show that he's there for you.

Up next: Cancer horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

CANCER (June 20-July 21)

Last April was a turning point. Maybe you met the love of your life or your relationship got a lot more serious. And because nothing comes easily, this was also when your paramour asked you to be patient while he took care of "unfinished business." It's in your nature to be nurturing and supportive, but it isn't always easy to tell if this helps someone to get back on his feet or invites him to take advantage of your good graces. Pluto coming out of retrograde on Sept. 22 says you need to lay everything on the line.

Up next: Leo horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

LEO (July 22-Aug. 21)

Don't be so quick to give away your heart because somebody else will be vying for it on Sept. 25. This is when Jupiter forms an extremely rare trine to Uranus — the planet of surprise upsets and startling turnarounds. This could materialize as someone coming back into your life, a secret admirer divulging his true feelings or a magnetic attraction that you find irresistible. So does this have staying power? It could, if given the right encouragement. Meanwhile, enjoy the fact that you've got two men fighting over you. This kind of attention doesn't come around every day.

Up next: Virgo horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

VIRGO (Aug. 22-Sept. 21)

On Sept. 22 you wake up and smell the coffee. This is when Pluto comes out of retrograde in that part of your solar chart that pertains to affairs of the heart. For months you've refrained from letting yourself get emotionally naked. Maybe it was the work schedule that cloaked you with excuses or the ever-changing ensemble of pressing obligations that kept you otherwise engaged. Or maybe you were just testing him. In any case Pluto's change of direction brings a change of heart for you. It looks like you're finally recognizing a good thing when you have it.

Up next: Libra horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

LIBRA (Sept. 22-Oct. 21)

It's clear you don't have the same feelings for him that he has for you. If you did, then you would have said yes to him already. You keep hoping that he'll find a nice girl somewhere and leave you alone. It would certainly make life a lot easier. Strangely enough, the stars show that it may be you who falls in love with someone else when Jupiter trines Uranus on Sept. 25. Obviously this provides just the timely escape you need but it wouldn't be improbable if it evolved into something more. Stranger things have happened.

Up next: Scorpio horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

SCORPIO (Oct. 22-Nov. 20)

You are a creature of obsession. When you fix your sights on someone it's done with the unconscious expectation that this person will never give you what you want. That's what makes an obsession an obsession. However, Mercury's entrance into Scorpio on Sept. 27 shows that this person's feelings toward you are changing and that you actually stand a chance. This could result in you experiencing a sudden indifference. If that indifference stays, then you'll know that it wasn't love that was driving you, but obsession. If not? Then you'll know that your feelings are the real thing.

Up next: Sagittarius horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 21-Dec. 20)

It's romantic falling in love with someone who hails from a different background. There's something exotic about a foreign accent, an unfamiliar culture or a religious upbringing so utterly unlike the one you were raised in. But as things get more serious, you're starting to notice the differences. Thankfully the Jupiter/Uranus trine on Sept. 25 will help you to bridge the gap. Whether the discussion is about moving, converting or changing your lifestyle, you'll find that he will meet you more than halfway. This planetary combination is all about broadening your horizons without losing yourself in the process.

Up next: Capricorn horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

CAPRICORN (Dec. 21-Jan. 18)

Your relationship may look the same on the outside, but there's been a lot of growth on the inside. You're more relaxed with him, confident, and you're even allowing yourself to have fun. These changes in our interior landscape are often connected to Pluto reversing direction (Pluto turned retrograde in Capricorn last April) and now that it's moving forward again (Sept. 22) you'll feel as if you're emerging from your cocoon. You're no longer the distant and aloof person you used to be. Love has worked its magic and you're ready for people to see the "new" you.

Up next: Aquarius horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

AQUARIUS (Jan. 19-Feb. 17)

You don't have to fall in love with someone else to get that fresh lease on life. Sometimes it can happen with the one you're with. Uranus is the planet of revolution and change in astrology. Uranus is also known as the planet of revelation. Uranus's spectacular trine to Jupiter on Sept. 25 shows the scales falling from your eyes regarding a lover or spouse. Maybe he comes through in a way you never expected or he shows a side of himself that you're not used to. This marks the renewed start of a long and beautiful relationship.

Up next: Pisces horoscope >>

{pageBreak}

PISCES (Feb. 18-March 19)

You can tell that something's up. Part of this stems from being born under psychic Pisces and the other part comes from Mercury's entrance into Scorpio on Sept. 27. Mercury is the planet of the mind in astrology. Inquisitive and analytical, it gains a more prescient quality when it's in Scorpio — not unlike antennae telling you what lies ahead. Unfortunately confirmation of your suspicions will be less forthcoming. Your boyfriend could be holding back or he could be in the dark himself. Rest assured that you'll get to the bottom of things sooner rather than later.

More horoscopes

Your weekly horoscope

Poor Sheldon! The Big Bang Theory Season 8 clip promises bumpy "ride"

$
0
0

Fact: This is makin' bank >>

Sheldon's world has been sufficiently rocked. Last season saw the end of Sheldon's obsession with string theory. The university, however, demanded he keep working. Add in Leonard's engagement and news that he wants to move out, and Sheldon was basically a mess. His solution? Making a surprising and worrisome train trip across America to "live off the land" and clear his head.

So, where does The Big Bang Theory Season 8 pick up? It looks like we find Sheldon mid-trip. While the picture above shows Sheldon must have made it as far east as Chicago, the Season 8 premiere episode title and synopsis teases otherwise. "The Locomotion Interruption" send Leonard and Amy "on a trip to Arizona to pick up Sheldon." And, in the new clip, Sheldon's recounting of the last part of the trip seems to suggest a pretty terrible experience.

Big Bang Theory Season 8 premiere clip

Big Bang Theory Season 8 premiere clip

Aww! Penny and Leonard are finally engaged >>

It looks like Sheldon was robbed and possibly beaten up. But was it on his way home from his trip to Chicago? Or does Chicago happen later, after the ill-fated train trip? Most importantly, what kind of snide craziness does Sheldon unleash in order to propel someone to steal his pants? At the moment, we can only imagine, but hopefully we learn the answer.

The Big Bang Theory Season 8 will be a game changer for everyone involved. Not only do we have Penny and Leonard's wedding to look forward to, but there's also the impending move. Our vote for Leonard's replacement as Sheldon's roomie? Stuart, the depressed comic book store owner. He could certainly use a place to live after the fire at the comic book store and his place of residence. We also can't wait to see how Stuart is faring as Mrs. Wolowitz's nurse. The network synopsis suggests that they're getting along better than Howie had hoped.

Find our for sure during the premiere on Monday at 8/7c.

Want more TV news and reviews? Sign up for our newsletter >>

DIY pencil-shaped hall pass for your favorite teacher

$
0
0

Supplies

Supplies:

Chipboard
Paint in pink, gray, yellow and tan
Paintbrushes
Scissors
Ruler
Pencil
Permanent Marker

1. Measure the width of the pencil on the chipboard. It should be 3.5 inches.

Draw pencil

2. Mark the end for painting in the eraser and metal fastener. One line 2 inches from an end, and one 2-3/4 inches from the same end.

Two lines

3. On the other end, mark 2.5 inches for the pencil point.

Mark 4

4. Mark the point of the pencil in the center of the same end.

Mark point

5. Draw a line from the points in Step 3 to the point in Step 4.

Mark

6. Cut out the pencil shape.

Cardboard

7. Paint the pencil shape.

Paint

8. Allow paint to dry. Paint the back. Then allow to dry again.

Allow to dry

9. Use permanent marker to outline, draw in the lines, and write the teacher's name and any other important information.

Pencil

10. Add a ribbon through a hole at the end, if you like.

Your hall pass is ready to wander the halls of the school...

Pencil finished

More crafts like this

DIY chalk packs
DIY stenciled backpack
School crafts made from cans

Outlander review: The wedding we've all been waiting for

$
0
0

She saw it all the time on the front lines of the Second World War between soldiers and nurses, where an attraction would grow for a number of reasons besides love, mostly limited options and the intensity of the warfront experience. Claire confesses that once or twice, despite how much she loved Frank, she experienced occasional flickers of attraction to other men. She also says that those flickers of attraction always disappeared, because they weren't based on anything real. They were flickers. They didn't linger.

Outlander has been slowly building the relationship between Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Claire (Caitriona Balfe) for weeks now, and it's been clear from the start that those same sparks have always been there.

SPOILERS: We're breathlessly waiting for these Outlander sex scenes >>

Over the long, slow night that Claire and Jamie spend in their bedchamber on the evening of their wedding, it becomes gradually clear that the problem isn't that Claire doesn't want to sleep with Jamie.

It's that she does. Very much. That's where her guilt comes from. Though she may not have chosen this marriage, she's certainly wanted Jamie for weeks now, and suddenly she's in a position where it's not only that she can act on that desire, it's that she must. There are hundreds of reasons she can give herself for this. To make the marriage legal, to keep herself out of Randall's hands — these are all plausible excuses for why she has to allow Jamie to take her to bed.

Outlander review: Get ready for wedding bells >>

Underneath that, though, is the simmering undercurrent of want, and it's why she resists for so long, why she plies herself with whiskey and asks Jamie to tell her stories of his parents, how he grew up, why she needs to spend the first few hours of their wedding night fully clothed and making small talk. If she'd had to marry one of the other men, Rupert or Murtaugh or even Dougal, she'd square her chin and get it over with; it would be a matter of practicality. But instead, it's Jamie, sweet Jamie with his list of demands to make their wedding special for her, who's wanted her from the moment he met her and who she's wanted back, and the fact that she's so desperately fond of him is more disloyal to Frank than anything else could be.

Their first encounter is cursory, over and done in a matter of moments. Jamie's a virgin and there's not a lot of finesse to be had there, and though once is enough to make it legal, their second time is the result of six episodes of buildup. It's pure passion, it's joy, and it's the reason we're so glad this show is on Starz, because they went for it.

Outlander review: Dougal collects rent and stirs rebellion >>

It's an arranged marriage. It's a matter of convenience. But there's also genuine affection and killer chemistry, and those are the things that Claire's finally stopped resisting.

Last week's episode "The Garrison Commander" was intense, brutal in its vivid violence and Randall's sadistic soliloquy. "The Wedding" was the balm that came after, impeccably structured in a series of quick flashbacks between the lead-up to the ceremony and their wedding night, and while "The Garrison Commander" may well be the episode that the show sends out with its Emmy submissions, "The Wedding" is the reason we've been watching. Outlander isn't a straightforward romance. It's complicated and messy, layers and layers of these two characters to unpack.

In summary: We are not going to survive this midseason finale. Why do you hate us, Starz?

5 Healthy fall teas for people who usually hate tea

$
0
0

“You don't really hear people say, 'I'm going to go relax with a cup of coffee,'' says Keri Gans, M.S., R.D., author of The Small Change Diet. "I am not sure if science will back this up directly, but it's often the ritual of drinking tea. It soothes stress. It helps you relax."

Gans declines to say tea is better than coffee. It's often a personal preference, and each has its own benefits — but tea’s list is long, if you haven't ever taken a peek. Gans notes its ridiculous antioxidant profile, and says tea has been linked to lowering blood pressure, cholesterol and your risk of cardiovascular disease, as well as fighting cancer and Alzheimer's. "And there was a recent study that, overall, shows tea-drinkers have a healthier lifestyle than coffee-drinkers," she says. Make what you want of that. Maybe it's tea's link to stress reduction, but the research is there.

I know what many of you are thinking, though: Tea? Really? Ew.

Been there, guys. I vividly remember my uncle handing me a cup of tea when I was probably 10. I took a sip, made a face like he'd just given me a lemon to suck on and handed him the cup right back. And you don't want to start adding a bunch of junk to your tea, either. As Gans notes, "It's a healthy beverage option, but start adding a lot of honey and sugar? Now it's a lot of calories." Kind of like how a chai tea latte isn't really tea — it's a legit dessert.

It's important to learn to enjoy the flavor of the tea if you can, without all the sugary additives. But, I do get it if you're not into the bitter taste of some classics — like Earl Grey, for example. (Yes, some teas really do have flavor!) I loathed teas for years and years, until I started trying out a new one every now and again instead of coffee. I like a hot beverage on a fading fall day, but I could never tolerate the caffeine content in an afternoon cup of joe. So, enter tea... but only those with actual taste.

Harney & Sons hot cinnamon spice tea

Harney & Sons hot cinnamon spice tea is a delicious black tea, and tops my list of all-time favorites. The mixture of orange peel, cloves and three different kinds of cinnamon give it a natural sweetness. I can literally drink bottomless cups of this during the fall and winter months.

Tazo organic spicy ginger tea

Great for digestion with the ginger and soothing chamomile, you also get a kick of flavor from the citrus in Tazo organic spicy ginger tea. And since it's herbal? It's caffeine-free, which means you can drink it anytime, anywhere.

Republic of Tea caramel apple red tea

If you're more into teas that taste like dessert in a cup, opt for Republic of Tea caramel apple red tea, which has a super-autumnal, caramel-apple flavor. With African rooibos tea as the perfect base, you're really getting a triple-punch of sweet flavor. Yum.

Davidson’s caramel peach with coconut dessert tea

Peach tea is really just ho-hum, slightly flavored water in my opinion... until you add caramel and coconut flavors to your cup, along with chicory, chamomile and rooibos. Think of Davidson's caramel peach with coconut dessert tea as an easy 'n' smooth beginner's herbal tea.

Harney & Sons dragon pearl jasmine tea

Harney & Sons dragon pearl jasmine tea is the closest thing to a classic I’m going to include on this list... because it's the most soothing, relaxing thing I've ever consumed. It tastes decadent, but not in a dessert-y way. It smells beautiful and floral, but never too strong. It is jasmine tea, and it's unlike anything else. Once you've done the other four flavors on the list, graduate to this. It will become a fast favorite.

More hot topics in health

TV show hands out free cupcakes, enrages gym-goers (VIDEO)
Rape starts and stops with men; it's that simple
5 Food additives scientifically linked to obesity


Spa services for toddlers – yay or nay? (VIDEO)

$
0
0

Bethenny says, "Spa services for toddlers? I don't even know what that means. That's not to say I wouldn't go get a mommy-and-me manicure, but massages and things like that? It's creepy."

INTERVIEW: Princess Bride's Cary Elwes shares behind-the-scenes stories you probably haven't heard

$
0
0

Let's face it: If you know movies exist, you know about The Princess Bride, a timeless tale of love and pirates, directed by Rob Reiner. The film was first released in 1987 at the Toronto Film Festival, and although it had a slow start, the VHS market bolstered the small budget fairy tale to immortal fame.

It has now become one of the most quotable films of all time. Inconceivable, you say? ... Ha, see what I did there?

In the introduction to his new book, As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride, Cary Elwes (made forever famous for his role as farm boy turned sexy pirate) lists just a few of the immortal lines: "Have fun storming the castle," "Rest well, and dream of large women," "Get used to disappointment," and the list goes on.

His personal favorite? "Anybody want a peanut?"

As you wish! The Princess Bride cast reunites >>

Inspired by the recent 25th anniversary of the film's creation, Elwes decided to write about his experience, he said, "before my memory fades too quickly." He was practically a kid when Reiner chose to cast him in the pivotal role of Westley.

As You Wish by Cary Elwes

Elwes read the book, The Princess Bride, by William Goldman, when he was just 13. The script (also written by Goldman) fell through the filmmaking cracks several times in Hollywood before Reiner made the plan a go.

When Elwes first read the script, he said, "I thought it was brilliant. It captured the essence of the book, which is a really hard book to adapt. The only person who could have done it was Bill. It was his favorite book and his favorite screenplay, so he was nervous about us making the film."

Goldman certainly was. There's even an anecdote in As You Wish about the frightened screenwriter ruining the sound in a scene because he was praying on set.

Despite early concerns, the film has now grown to cult status. Did Elwes have any idea what The Princess Bride would become? "No, we had no idea," he said. "You don’t know you're making a cult film when you're making a cult film. Nobody knows anything."

Our favorite kid-friendly flicks: Grab the popcorn! >>

Not entirely true. Elwes knew he was clumsy, and he knew he had a heck of a sword fight scene to film. On top of the Cliffs of Insanity, The Man in Black must face Inigo Montoya in what Reiner called "the greatest sword fight in modern history." Easy, right? Uhh....

"Two months of training for me; four for Mandy," Elwes said. "Every day for two months, even while I was shooting, the trainers would be right there." (All this with a broken toe, by the way.)

The action sequences could be considered easy compared to working with Billy Crystal. Both Reiner and Elwes were banned at one point because they couldn't stop laughing. It was the scene where Westley is "mostly dead," and Miracle Max brings him back to life. Elwes said, "When Billy started doing his Yiddish stand up, I was done for. No one had warned me. He started, and that was that. Both Rob and I had to be removed from the set."

As You Wish is a labor of love. You can feel the adoration for gentle giant Andre and Elwes' crush on co-star Robin Wright. The book not only gives a behind-the-scenes look at a Hollywood classic, but there are insightful comments and interviews with Elwes' co-stars and creators of the film. It's a must-have for any Princess Bride enthusiast, and there are many of us.

Our favorite love quotes from '80s movies >>

See, I'm not the only girl who screams at the mention of Cary Elwes. One of his weirdest moments made a very permanent impression on a fan. As Elwes explained, "I met a young fan who lifted her hair and showed me that on the back of her neck she had 'as you wish' tattooed in rather large letters. She handed me a Sharpie and said, 'Would you sign it so I can get your signature tattooed?' Her mother was standing right there and said, 'Go ahead, do it!' Well, if the mother insists, what was I going to say? So somewhere, there's a girl walking around with my name on her neck."

He has also met full families named after Princess Bride characters. Gotta feel bad for the girl who has to go through life as "Buttercup."

Reiner's masterpiece is timeless, and Elwes chalks this up to a good time. "It was made with a lot of heart," he said. "We all had so much fun making it, so I think there's something to be said for that. It's a tale about love. It's a fun movie about princesses and pirates."

Elwes himself is just as charming as his fangirls would hope, with his easy-to-recognize voice and a contagious laugh that never stops. As You Wish is his ode, practically a love letter, to the movie and people involved. There is something magical about The Princess Bride. We true believers know it. As Westley says, "This is true love. You think this happens every day?"

More reading

Romeo and Juliet's Douglas Booth and 9 other dudes in tights
10 Love lessons from Jane Austen novels
Sorry Hollywood, Robin Wright won't play arm candy roles

Desperate Housewives actress Polly Bergen has died

$
0
0

Cancer claims Kathryn Joosten and DH's Mrs. McCluskey >>

According to People, the actress' publicist Judy Katz revealed that she had died of natural causes and was surrounded by her family and longtime manager at the time of her death.

Bergen enjoyed a successful career that spanned across several decades and included multiple roles in films, TV dramas and stage musicals. In 1953, she made her Broadway debut with Harry Belafonte in the revue John Murray Anderson's Almanac. She also starred in several popular films including Cape Fear, Kisses for My President and Move Over, Darling.

She was truly a woman of many talents and even published advice books, her first being The Polly Bergen Book of Beauty, Fashion and Charm in 1962, which helped her forge her cosmetics empire.

In her later years, Bergen was loved for her roles as Felicity Huffman's mother on Desperate Housewives and the mistress of Tony Soprano's late father on The Sopranos.

Bergen was an Emmy award-winning actress who took home the accolade in 1958 for her portrayal of Helen Morgan on the series Playhouse 90. She also was nominated for another Emmy in 1989 for her role in the miniseries War and Remembrance.

Whoopi Goldberg, Billy Crystal remember Robin Williams >>

The actress is survived by her three children, Peter Fields, Kathy Lander and Pamela Fields and three grandchildren. Our thoughts are with Bergen's friends and family during this sad time.

TMZ reports that her rep says donations can be made to Planned Parenthood.

SPOILER: Which Game of Thrones bad guy is back?

$
0
0

WARNING: Spoilers are ahead. We are especially, above any other show, against spoiling Game of Thrones without a viewer's consent. Continue at your own discretion.

George R. R. Martin admits some fan predictions are right >>

If you'll remember, Tyrion (Peter Dinklage) kills his father Tywin at the end of Season 4. Tywin, justifiably, gets a few arrows to the gut when Tyrion catches him on the john as Tyrion's escaping from King's Landing.

Yet, in an interview with MTV UK, Dance said the Lannister patriarch will, in fact, appear in Season 5. "I'm not completely missing out on the next series. More than that, I'm not going to say. You haven't seen the last of Tywin Lannister, is all I'll say."

There is some speculation that this means Tywin is still alive, but we don't think that's the case. Sure, there are some magical elements to Game of Thrones, but suffice it to say, this show isn't The Vampire Diaries. Death is generally more permanent.

Queen Elizabeth has no interest in the iron throne >>

More than likely, Tywin will be back via flashbacks or dream sequences in the same way Khal Drogo (Jason Momoa) returned to visit Daenerys after his death. Tywin also could be seen in Season 5 as a corpse similar to Joffrey (Jack Gleeson), though we think the latter is more likely given Dance's tease.

We hear Tyrion will be feeling quite a bit of regret and depression following his angry rampage, which left his lover and his father dead at his hands. He'll probably feel guilty over Shae's death more than Tywin's, but he's sure to reminisce about both. Perhaps the memory of Tywin and his strict rules will haunt Tyrion.

Tywin may be returning for an appearance, but some of our favorite Game of Thrones characters will not for the upcoming season. It has been confirmed that both Bran Stark and Hodor won't be seen at all in Season 5.

For more TV and book "news," sign up for our newsletter >>

Watch the interview with Charles Dance below.

Charles Dance confirms Game of Thrones return

Charles Dance confirms Game of Thrones return

Popular parenting manual says you should let your baby cry until he vomits

$
0
0

Letting a baby cry himself to sleep is an extremely controversial parenting practice, but an excerpt in a popular U.K. parenting book seems to take it to the next level. Your Baby Week By Week: The ultimate guide to caring for your new baby, a top-seller published in 2007, is making waves right now as negative reviews roll in like crazy. The reason? There is a passage about letting a baby cry himself to sleep, and if he cries so much he barfs, just clean up the bed without looking at him, touching him or comforting him in any way.

Book excerpt

Book excerpt

This is a horrifying recommendation — one that is complete with instructions to make the bedding change go smoothly, including keeping a spare sheet and baby wipes by the crib.

I took a look at the reviews on Amazon UK, where it is indeed a current top-seller in the Baby Development category. I wanted to see if I could determine how the excerpt fit into the rest of the book — was it really representative of the author's philosophies? And as expected, there are scads of negative, recent one-star reviews.

I admit that I wondered if they were from people who had simply seen the inflammatory paragraph and left a review without reading the whole book. In fact, many do seem to focus on that small portion, and other reviews point out that those don't reflect the book as a whole — they also state the entire book isn't the worthless garbage it seems to be. "The fact that it fitted into a single photo in a Facebook post tells you how small a part of this book it was," reads one in particular.

However, I feel that no matter how small the passage was, it does not mean it should be dismissed or ignored. It was written by someone to help them train their baby to lose trust, to ignore a child's cries when cries are all she has to communicate with and to refuse to comfort her when she vomits in her own bed. If that isn't worthless garbage, then I don't know what is.

If an author felt it was necessary to offer tips on easy cleanup that don't get your child's hopes up that he will be cuddled or fed, then I wouldn't want to read the rest of what she has to say. Moms often turn to books for parenting advice, and it's sad they might be tempted to go against their intuitions if they've read this book.

You can't judge a book by its cover, but you can judge a book by a crap paragraph that encourages you to ignore your baby who just puked all over his bed.

More on taking care of babies

Is it OK to let your baby nurse to sleep?
Parents charged in baby's death: Don't blame co-sleeping, blame the parents
Why your baby needs tummy time and how she can get it

Could a Lizzie McGuire reunion be hitting our screens?

$
0
0

Hilary Duff shatters Aaron Carter's reconciliation dreams >>

During a recent interview with the Huffington Post, Duff revealed she is very interested in a full cast reunion of the hit show, which aired its final episode in February 2004.

"I love it! I would be totally open to it. My schedule is a little busy right now. But um…why not?"

She added, "I mean, so many people loved her. I loved her. Honestly, working on that show, I got so strong with my physical comedy and all the things that they would throw at me. I got covered in goo every week, and I got, like, smashed in the face with a locker every single week. And all this, I mean it was a really, really fun show. And obviously people really loved her. Maybe a 'Lizzie: Where Are You Now?' like 10 years later."

Is Hilary Duff's new song a rip-off of Sheryl Crow's "Soak Up the Sun"? >>

Right now, though, we are tapping our feet to the blond beauty's comeback track, and Duff is set to release an album later this year, one she believes is very different from her previous albums.

"The album is very different. My last record was seven years ago. I haven't just frozen in time. Being a mother has given me a confidence I didn't have before, so maybe that came across in the studio for sure. Being more, you know, ballsy with what I have to say. And not holding back," she told the publication.

Hilary Duff hooks up with Colbie Caillat for comeback single >>

If Duff ever does decide to take time off from her music, we'd definitely love to watch a Lizzie McGuire reunion. But, the burning question is, would her character end up with David "Gordo" Gordon (played by Adam Lamberg) or Ethan Craft (played by Clayton Snyder)?

"Lizzie always chooses the right way. Personally? Ethan! No, no, I'm just kidding. I always choose the good guy," the actress confessed. We're not sure if that's a clear-cut answer, perhaps we'll just wait until a reunion does hit our screens (hopefully)!

Demi Lovato is sporting a new accessory — an arm sling

$
0
0

Would you shave your head in the name of… fashion? >>

The "Heart Attack" hit maker posted a picture of her injured arm via her Facebook page on Saturday along with the caption, "Welp. Looks like I won't be playing guitar, piano OR drums tonight. San Antonio... Why did you have to go and make me fall so hard for you?!! #demiworldtour."

Demi Lovato Facebook

Demi Lovato Facebook

Demi Lovato after rehab: I still have bad moments >>

Poor Demi! Unfortunately, this is not the first injury she has suffered this year. She also sprained her ankle back in July!

At the time of her accident, the beauty tweeted, alongside a picture of her swollen ankle, "Umm soooo... I guess when I went running and twisted my ankle I actually did hurt myself... AGAIN. Hahaha."

Let's hope that's the last freak accident Lovato has! However, we don't think she will let her injured arm halt any of her performances because she is very passionate about her work and sending out an empowering message, which is why she has hired activist Spencer West to speak at her shows.

Demi Lovato praises Kim Kardashian for redefining beauty >>

Taking to Facebook on Friday, she wrote, "This is a different kind of tour and one of the things that makes it so special is my friend, Spencer. I'm so honored to have him on tour with me sharing his beautiful and empowering message with all of us."

Demi Lovato Facebook

Demi Lovato Facebook

Lovato has 19 more tour dates left in her Demi Lovato: World Tour before her final performance in Brooklyn, New York, on Oct. 27.


3 Ways the Madam Secretary snooze-fest could improve

$
0
0

I have to be honest and say that the first 30 minutes of this new show didn't inspire me to write much of anything for my review, except maybe a lullaby. CBS is known for its spectacular dramas, and so far, I've loved almost every single one of them.

Poor Sheldon! The Big Bang Theory Season 8 clip promises bumpy "ride" >>

But I had a hard time getting into Madam Secretary, and I found myself waiting for something to "pop" and for one of those moments when I said to myself, "Yes! This is something I want to watch every week." Even if I can't recall the exact scenes, I do recall having those kinds of epiphanies while watching other CBS shows like The Good Wife, Person of Interest and NCIS.

Perhaps it doesn't seem fair to compare Madam Secretary to the likes of The Good Wife, but when you put them on the same night, it's kind of hard not to compare the two. Though this new show isn't quite at the level of Juliana Margulies' hit series, with a few changes I think it could become something special.

The Walking Dead's Sonequa Martin-Green is pregnant: Is Sasha expecting, too? >>

How about a laugh or two?

I don't think the show should turn into a comedy, but a chuckle here and there would go a long way. Shows like The Good Wife and Scandal have moments that make me laugh out loud, even if for no other reason than they are so shocking that I can do nothing else but laugh. Drama is best played off of lighter moments, so give Madam Secretary some dichotomy. The audience will feel like they have somewhere to go emotionally, rather than just being stuck in an "everything is dire" mode throughout every episode.

More action, please

To be clear, when I say "action" I don't necessarily mean that I want bombs blowing up in the offices or for Elizabeth's car to be run off the road in a fiery crash. I just mean the show needs to up the ante on the drama. Even with the two boys being held in Syria, I never felt that urge to sit at the edge of my seat and bite my nails in terror for their lives. It all played out in a predictable way, so I say let's give the drama a little more juice.

INTERVIEW: Scandal's Tony Goldwyn tells us Fitz's new obsession — and it isn't Olivia Pope >>

Bring on the ensemble

The reason those other female-driven political dramas work isn't just because they have a strong female lead who works all alone. Those leads have capable ensembles who work with them. They have swarms of people surrounding them and backing them up. So far the only character that stood out to me in the office pool was Blake (Erich Bergen), and he barely had a couple scenes. I could see promise in Bebe Neuwirth's Nadine and Zeljko Ivanek's Russell, but they both need a lot more to do.

What did you think of the premiere of Madam Secretary? What do you think should change to make the show better?

Bow Wow is engaged to Erica Mena after just six months

$
0
0

Bow Wow overwhelmed by support after baby bombshell >>

The couple began dating and were spotted kissing on camera when Mena stopped by the BET show 106 & Park, where Bow Wow serves as a host. And now their whirlwind romance has just gotten even more serious.

News of their engagement broke this weekend at the 2014 BET Awards in Atlanta, Georgia. When E! News reporters asked Mena, who is best known for her appearance on the New York season of the VH1 reality TV show Love & Hip Hop, if she and Bow Wow are officially dating, she replied, "Uhh... he's actually my fiancé."

Lil Bow Wow in big trouble with the IRS >>

Bow Wow took to his Instagram account on Sunday to share a snap of his diamond-encrusted Rolex watch and his fiancée's sparkling diamond bauble. He did not caption the pic.

Bow Wow Instagram

Bow Wow Instagram

The "Bounce With Me" hit maker's lady took to Twitter to thank a fan for the well-wishes. While Bow Wow has yet to say anything about his engagement on Twitter, he did share a link of the Instagram picture of their bling (which he is clearly proud of).

Erica Mena Twitter

Erica Mena Twitter

And there's even more good news for Mena: Her show Love & Hip Hop, has a new series, which is scheduled to premiere in November.

Nicky Hilton is finally showing off her engagement ring >>

Congratulations to the happy couple on their engagement!

Here's what happened when my dog snuck into the pantry (VIDEO)

$
0
0

Rusty is guilty

Rusty is guilty

If you think that it's bad, just wait until you get to [00:31] and see what he did with the rice. Thank goodness I'm pretty savvy with a vacuum.

You can blame it on the human who left the pantry door open. Or blame it on fate, or irony, or whatever else you'd like. But no matter how hard you try, you just can't blame the dog. He was just doing what dogs do best — sticking his nose where it didn't belong.

More in silly dogs

Husky says no in hilarious doggy tantrum
Overjoyed Pug loves to play in the ball pit
Dogs in wheelchairs still love to play fetch

Mike Tyson to the rescue following motorcycle crash

$
0
0

Mike Tyson to become a real-life cartoon >>

Tyson was reportedly driving along an interstate in Las Vegas when he witnessed a crash and stopped to help the victim. Motorcyclist Ryan Chesley told the Associated Press that he was riding around 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 16, when a cab cut him off and he crashed.

The rider said the next thing he knew, he was looking up at the famous boxer.

"He thought he was hallucinating," Chesley’s lawyer said. "He thought he was in some other world."

Tyson was apparently protecting Chesley and yelling at everyone to not touch him. Chesley's lawyer said that as soon as paramedics arrived, Tyson "just left, like some kind of superhero."

Steve Lott, Tyson's personal assistant, told the AP that Chesley sent a fruit basket and a note that said, "Thank you so much for looking over me after my accident. It has to be the most reassuring thing in the world to have Mike Tyson telling people not to touch me."

Spike Lee brings Mike Tyson's stage show to HBO >>

Tyson isn't always on the positive side of the news. Just a few weeks ago, he lost his temper during a TV interview in Toronto. But it's clear that isn't the only side of him.

Chesley suffered a torn ligament and broken bones, but that didn't stop him from taking a cell phone pic of Tyson before he left.

No, my breasts aren't for my baby

$
0
0

I have long been a vocal defender of women who cannot or choose not to breastfeed their babies. I won't ever stop speaking up for those of us who make the very personal decision about how and when to use our bodies to feed our babies — and yes, that includes moms who embrace nursing whole-heartedly.

But can someone please tell me when it became OK to consider my breasts open for public discussion? It feels like the second that egg gets fertilized, we cease to be women and instead morph into mother with a capital "M."

I've never been the type to wear my sexuality on my sleeve, but it occurred to me early on in my first pregnancy that society sends expecting moms a clear message that the opportunity for bodily pleasure is over, kaput. And some of us, myself included, swallow that message whole.

Recently, Dita Von Teese and Destination Maternity teamed up to offer breastfeeding moms a little more sex appeal than the typical cotton nursing bras that most closely resemble the underthings of a prison matron, and the internet raised its eyebrows. It shouldn't come as a surprise or a shock to anyone that moms want to look and feel sexy.

Frankly, the notion of women's bodies as public property extends well beyond breasts in our current culture. However, for many of us, it becomes starkly clear once we are pregnant that what we choose to do with our sex organs is everyone's business, from your mother-in-law to that guy in the mall who wants you to stop using your boobs to feed your baby in public.

When we let others decide how and when we use our breasts once we become mother s— be it for feeding babies or getting our happy on with our partners — we're buying into the idea that we're no longer women, we're just moms.

That isn't my truth. I am so much more than "just" a mom. I'm an autonomous human being with feelings and desires and it's never any of your business what I do or do not do with my boobs.

More stories about moms and sex

One-third of moms have gone years without sex
8 Sex rules moms shouldn't have to follow
Do kids kill your sex drive?

Viewing all 33701 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images