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Meet the breed: Bullmastiff

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Breed at a glance

  • Devoted
  • Intelligent
  • Fearless
  • High-spirited
  • Excellent guard dog

Find a breeder in your area >>

Overview

As the name suggests, the Bullmastiff is 60 percent Mastiff and 40 percent Bulldog. Bred in England to guard estates from poachers, the idea behind the mix was to create a dog that was larger than the Bulldog, yet a bit faster and more fierce than the Mastiff. Once its services were no longer needed, it was turned into a hunter's companion due to its light complexion. Now, Bullmastiffs are known for their police work, assistance in the military and as excellent family guard dogs.

Photo gallery >>

Breed standards

  • AKC group: Working Group
  • UKC group: Guardian Dog Group
  • Average lifespan: 8 - 10 years
  • Average size: 100 - 130 pounds
  • Coat appearance: Short and dense
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Other identifiers: Powerful, muscular body; large and square head; short muzzle; black nose; dark eyes; V-shaped ears; muscular legs; high tail that is either curved or straight
  • Coloration: Red, brindle or fawn
  • Possible alterations: May have black markings on the body.

Is this breed right for you?

Active yet calm, the Bullmastiff is great for apartment or home life, but it will do best with a small yard and daily walks to avoid behavioral problems. It gets along well with cats, adores children and makes for a wonderful companion dog. Affectionate, the Bullmastiff was taught not to bite, but it is extremely fearless and will attack any threat that comes into range. Because of this, it is best that it is socialized young and trained by a firm yet kind owner. Sensitive, it is easily emotionally scarred and will not do well in a kennel or by being yelled at. Although it does not bark often, it is very loud when it does. A big drooler, snorer and likely to slobber, this is a kind yet messy pup. Not shedding very often, the Bullmastiff is easy to groom.

breed characteristics

A dream day-in-the-life

There is no doubt that the Bullmastiff would prefer to spend its day surrounded by its family. At the heel of its favorite companion, this dog will be its master's shadow whenever it is not snoozing on the couch. After a walk, it'll ensure the home is safe by checking the home's perimeter inside and out. A lover, the Bullmastiff will be happy with a good rubdown as it falls asleep.

Other breeds you may like

Meet the breed: Mastiff
Meet the breed: Tibetan Mastiff

Meet the breed: Cane Corso


16 Popcorn recipes to munch on during your Netflix binge (and what to watch)

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Once that Netflix black hole sucks you in, the only way out is to watch all the episodes of every single season available. Honestly, raise your hand if you've ever watched just one episode in a single sitting. No, no one raises their hand, because that's just impossible. So while you get comfortable on your bed/couch/floor (hey, we're not here to judge!), we're sharing the top popcorn recipes and our suggestions for what TV show series you should pair said recipes with. And we promise, no spoilers!

1. Ras el hanout-spiced popcorn with chocolate recipe

Ras el Hanout spiced popcorn with chocolate

Blog: Always Order Dessert

To eat while watching: The Mind of a Chef, because only a chef would think to put this amazing spice blend on popcorn.

As difficult as ras el hanout-spiced popcorn with chocolate is to pronounce, it's even more difficult to get you to stop watching Netflix.

2. Taco popcorn recipe

Taco popcorn

Blog: Gimme Some Oven

To eat while watching: Breaking Bad, because not only does New Mexico have meth, but it's got some great tacos too.

Spice up your popcorn, and make this taco popcorn tonight. You probably have all the ingredients in your pantry already.

3. Cilantro-lime popcorn recipe

Cilantro-lime popcorn

Blog: Bake Your Day

To eat while watching: City of Men, which takes places in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The sweet-tangy combination in this cilantro-lime popcorn makes our taste buds sing with joy.

4. Truffle-bacon popcorn recipe

Truffle bacon popcorn

Blog: Foodie Crush

To eat while watching: Revenge, because only the Graysons could afford to put truffle on popcorn.

For all the bacon lovers out there, this truffle-bacon popcorn will be the best snack you'll discover.

5. Rosemary-Parmesan popcorn recipe

Rosemary parmesan popcorn

Blog: Taste Love & Nourish

To eat while watching: Weeds, because rosemary is an herb... just like weed is.

This rosemary-Parmesan popcorn is almost a meal on its own: herby, cheesy and tasty.

6. Peanut butter and jelly popcorn recipe

Peanut butter and jelly popcorn

Blog: Something Swanky

To eat while watching: a Disney movie marathon, since Netflix has so many of them for streaming.

This peanut butter and jelly popcorn will bring back memories of childhood fun, so it's a great snack while watching those Netflix cartoons. We won't judge — we watch them too.

7. Twix-caramel popcorn recipe

Twix caramel popcorn

Blog: Two Peas & Their Pod

To eat while watching: New Girl, because we're thinking she's gonna need lots of chocolate and popcorn this season.

If you are a candy bar lover, then this Twix-caramel popcorn is the recipe you need in your Netflix-watching life.

8. Vanilla-honey salted caramel popcorn recipe

Vanilla honey salted caramel popcorn

Blog: Pineapple & Coconut

To eat while watching: Parenthood, because you can't please everyone, but this popcorn just might.

The use of honey to substitute the corn syrup in this vanilla-honey salted caramel popcorn is ingenious and oh so delicious.

9. Homemade Cracker Jack recipe

Homemade Cracker Jack

Blog: Spiced

To eat while watching: Ferris Bueller's Day Off, because if you're going to go down memory lane, you might as well stay home from school, right?

As a kid, who didn't love the small boxes of Cracker Jack just to see what little toy was inside? Now you can make your own homemade Cracker Jack.

10. Patriotic popcorn recipe

Patriotic popcorn

Blog: Oh, Sweet Basil

To eat while watching: House of Cards, because honestly, who are more patriotic than the Underwoods?

We're thinking this patriotic popcorn is best when paired with politics.

11. Snickerdoodle popcorn recipe

Snickerdoodle popcorn

Blog: Picky Palate

To eat while watching: The Office, because that's the kind of cookie people should be bringing to our offices.

This sweet, addictive snickerdoodle popcorn is spiced and covered in white chocolate. What's not to love?

12. Key lime pie popcorn recipe

Key lime pie popcorn

Blog: Inside BruCrew Life

To eat while watching: Dexter, because Key lime pie was invented in Miami.

Basically this Key lime pie popcorn is best eaten while watching Dexter because Key lime pies and Cuban coffees are all that Dexter eats, right?

13. S'mores popcorn recipe

S'mores popcorn

Blog: Cravings of a Lunatic

To eat while watching: Lost, because they're stranded on an island and probably have the campfire going already.

Think of a campfire and your favorite snacks, and this s'mores popcorn recipe will become a favorite. Get popping!

14. Oreo-peanut butter popcorn recipe

Oreo peanut butter popcorn

Blog: Crazy for Crust

To eat while watching: Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, because nothing brings back more memories than those tiny kids eating a huge Oreo cookie.

Oreo-peanut butter popcorn, a delightful combination that will have you reaching for more.

15. Popcorn snack mix recipe

Popcorn snack mix

Blog: Rachel Cooks

To eat while watching: How I Met Your Mother, because just like this snack mix, from which you won't know what to expect in the next bite, no one expected HIMYM to end the way it did.

Can't decide what to watch? Can't decide what to put into your popcorn? This popcorn snack mix is a mix of snacks — a surprise in each bite.

16. Double chocolate moose munch

Double chocolate moose munch

Blog: Wanna Be a Country Cleaver

To eat while watching: Gossip Girl, because it's not only fashion and drama — these girls have to eat. Xoxo, us.

For the chocolate lovers out there, this double chocolate moose munch is just what the doctor ordered.

More on popcorn

Movie-time spicy air-popped popcorn
3 Holiday popcorn recipes

7 Ways to dress up popcorn

These hand warmers make the perfect cool weather gift

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You will need 4 pieces of 4x4-inch squares of fabric. Get creative with your fabric sources. I used leftover fabric from other projects, old flannel pajama pants, a sweatshirt sleeve and the legs of some corduroy pants my kids outgrew. This is a great opportunity to reuse old clothes that are too beat up for donation.

Supplies:

Supplies

  • Fabric
  • Scissors
  • Pinking shears (optional)
  • Pins
  • White rice, inexpensive brand (You’ll need about 1/2 cup for each hand warmer.)
  • Sewing machine
  • Funnel

If you do not have a sewing machine, it’s possible to hand sew. Just make sure the stitches are spaced tight (so the rice does not slip through).

Step 1:

Cut 4 pieces of fabric that measures 4x4 inches. After you cut out your fabric, lay 2 of the pieces on top of each other with the “wrong” sides (the sides without the pattern) facing each other. The "good" sides of the fabric with be facing out on both sides.

Step 1

Step 2:

Stitch a 1/4-inch seam around the outside of the squares, leaving a 1/2-inch opening. If you do not have a funnel, leave a bigger opening. Backstitch at the beginning and end of the opening (this re-enforces the hole).

Step 2

Step 3:

Fill the stitched fabric square with rice (this is where it is very handy to have a funnel) to about 2/3 full. Use one of the pins to hold the rice in, and sew the hole closed. Repeat with the other fabric square.

Step 3

Step 4:

Trim the edges of the fabric with the pinking shears. This will help keep the edges from fraying.

Step 4

All done! To use, place the hand warmers in the microwave on high for about 20 seconds. It should be plenty warm. If you want it to be warmer, heat it at 20-second intervals. The rice can get very hot, so make sure you do not heat if for too long. The rice will retain the heat for a while.

Hand them to your kids before they head out for a romp in the yard. They will love shoving the hand warmers in their jacket pockets. Plus, they can double as beanbags if they run out of things to play with.

More in sewing crafts

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These deserted tree cupcakes are perfect for your fright fest

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It seems a little strange to get inspiration for a Halloween dessert from a Disney movie, but those trees left a serious imprint. As a kid, I was so scared by them I'd hide my eyes when the fumbling pops got lost in the woods. Even though I wouldn't mind getting lost among these sweetened cupcakes, I'll just eat them instead.

Spooky deserted tree cupcakes

Spooky deserted tree cupcakes recipe

The trees are actually quite easy to make with some black wire or paper clips and black licorice. Just be sure to warn your guests about the wires to avoid any messy medical emergencies. Other fun decorations, like plastic spiders, ghosts or cookie "tombstones," can be added. These spooky haunted forest cupcakes are sure to be the next big hit at any one of your parties.

Serves 12

Prep time: 22 minutes | Bake time: 18 minutes | Total time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 box devil's food cake mix plus ingredients listed on the box
  • 1 tub chocolate frosting
  • 2 bags black licorice
  • Candy corn
  • Black sprinkles or glitter

Directions:

  1. Mix the chocolate cake mix with the ingredients listed on the box, stirring to ensure no clumps remain.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners, and fill each liner 2/3 full with cake batter. Bake for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centers comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire cooling rack.
  3. Once cooled, frost with the chocolate frosting. This doesn't have to be fancy, since you'll be topping it with the spooky trees.
  4. To assemble the trees, trim the ends off 4 to 5 licorice pieces in staggering heights (this will create the look of different tree branches). Carefully stick the wire through the holes of the licorice. Once the wire has been inserted, bend the "branches" so they look gnarled. Using the wire, carefully tie the base of the licorice pieces together to keep the tree together. Repeat until you've made about 12 trees. Carefully stick the trees into the centers of the cupcakes, pushing down slightly so they remain standing.
  5. Sprinkle the frosted tops with black edible sprinkles or glitter.
  6. Arrange the candy corn pieces around each tree to create a fun base. Add some fun spiders, ghosts or tombstones, and serve.

More fun Halloween cupcakes

Frightfully delicious Halloween cupcakes
Black cat cupcakes
Swamp monster cupcakes

Parents beware: Toddler beds destroy your sanity

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Cribs are about the greatest baby invention ever, in my opinion. Nothing is cuter than a baby nestled in her crib, sound asleep. Not judging your family bed or co-sleeper thing — I just loved the crib. When my baby had drifted off for a bit after breastfeeding, I could stealthily unlatch her and lay her in the crib in one continuous motion. Like a nursing ninja. And I was free! Free to shower, free to use the bathroom in private or just free to make a phone call without someone climbing on me.

But there comes a time — around 18 months — when parents start to think of their little one not as a baby, but as a small person. With opinions of his own. Usually the toddler's opinion on anything (other than cake) is the simple word, "NO." So part of this big shift in attitude rubs off on the unsuspecting parents. "She's so unhappy in her crib," they exclaim the first time they sense resistance to nap time. "He feels so trapped and isolated in his crib," the parents fear as they wonder just how high the therapy bills will be before their wee one turns 18. To make matters worse, toddlers can stand up in their crib — maybe even climb out — making it obvious to everyone that they're just ready for the next big step. The toddler bed.

This is where you need to stop, right here. Hear me out.

Your toddler wants more than anything (at the moment) to stick his hands into the boiling water on the stove. Do you treat him like a mini adult and bow to his wishes? Of course you don't, it's not safe. When he sees the garbage truck careening down the street, do you let go of his hand and let him chase it? Um, no. Not safe either. Sleeping in a crib is super safe. And for parents who worry that their poor toddler can't get out of the crib? They can — and will — call for you. My youngest used to announce to the household, "I'm all done sleeping, please!" and someone would help her out of the crib. So the fact that your toddler is expressing himself and not being too excited about going to sleep in his crib shouldn't make you immediately feel the need to satisfy him with a new bed. Because he's not a small person — he is a toddler. And yes, the two are different.

So don't fall victim to the toddler bed trap. Here's what will happen:

Your toddler won't stay in the toddler bed. He just won't. And why should he, when the whole house is available to him all night long? For little ones who have a sense of adventure, what could be more fun than climbing the mountain/bookcase in the family room? Or opening the refrigerator and climbing inside, like an Arctic explorer? One can only assume that playing with matches or running with scissors would also be on that list.

You will lose sleep. Think you're already sleep-deprived? The minute you disassemble that crib and christen the new toddler bed with Frozen sheets, you have headed down the path where no parent sleeps. Ever. Because now she can get up and come find you for that last drink of water. And then she will want you to lie down with her, because... toddler bed. And you will, but there's not really any room for you so you will pretty much be on the floor. Not sleeping.

Save your money — don't let the toddlers win. Who knows what they will want next?

More on toddlers

Ways your toddler is like a bad roommate
Ways to manage sticky toddler messes
Your most embarrassing toddler stories

Summer is over, so here are 7 new uses for old pool noodles

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Shopping cart baby bumper

Pool noodle hack for shopping cart

Photo credit: Shannon at Living My Life on Purpose

Navigating the store with a baby can be a challenge, but let your tot accidentally smack her head on the front of the shopping cart and your challenge will quickly rocket to an impossible feat as she inconsolably screams with a bruised or bloody face. Then, ewwww, there's always the less dramatic concern that babies love putting their mouths on everything — germy or not. Pool noodle to the rescue! Shannon, the blogger at Living My Life on Purpose, cut a noodle crosswise in half and then made a vertical slit up one side so the foam can easily be slipped onto the front bar of the shopping cart.

Keep your kiddo in bed

Pool noodle hack for bed rails

Photo credit: Mandy at Small Fine Print

Do you often hear a bump (then crying) in the middle of the night and know it's coming from your child's bedroom? Don't you dare put those pool noodles away for winter! Take a tip from Mandy, creator of Small Fine Print, and use them to keep your wild sleeper safe and snug as a bug. Cut two noodles to fit the length of your kiddo's mattress, and then slip them up the sides of the bed under the mattress cover. Once your little guy is fast asleep he can turn left or right, but the pool noodle bed rails will keep him from tumbling out of bed.

Use-your-noodle art

Pool noodle home decor hack

Photo credit: Shannon at Fox Hollow Cottage

Perhaps the family pool noodle is looking a bit worn and you just happen to be yawning over your current home decor. Shannon, the DIY pro at Fox Hollow Cottage, gathered up a few fun, beachy items to repurpose a pool noodle into a one-of-a-kind wreath that will effortlessly brighten up a room. This flip-flop wreath can keep you in the carefree summer spirit when the weather turns cold and gray.

Show your boots some love

Pool noodle hack for boot storage

Photo credit: Kim at A Spotted Pony

Instead of letting your boots look sad and droopy in between wears, insert pool noodles to keep them upright and help maintain the shape of your favorite footwear. Sure, you could just use noodles you've cut to the right length, but do you really want to look at neon-colored foamy things every time you walk into your closet? Of course not. Get inspired by Kim at A Spotted Pony, who crafted pretty and inexpensive fabric covers for her new boot supports.

Protect your car doors

Pool noodle hack for car door

Photo credit: Megan at Two Feet First

When parking your car in the garage gives you claustrophobia, you probably also suffer anxiety over scratching your car door against the garage wall as you carefully squeeze yourself out of the car. You'll find plenty of images on Google showing pool noodles being used as buffers between garage walls and car doors, but how do you attach said pool noodle to the wall? Megan and her husband at Two Feet First give you step-by-step instructions along with photos to help you guard your car and take a long, deep breath as you exit your ding-free door.

Don't shut the door!

Pool noodle hack for door stop

Photo credit: Heidi at Muslin and Merlot

Do you have little ones who have slammed their precious little fingers in the door too many times? Do you need your garage door to stay unlatched as you haul multiple loads of laundry or groceries inside? Let the pool noodle help you with your open-door policy. Resourceful crafter Heidi at Muslin and Merlot easily transforms pool noodles into colorful door stoppers that will protect fingers and make your life easier when you need to be in and out.

A pool noodle just wants to have fun

Pool noodle hack for floating cooler

Photo credit: Macgeek at Instructables

We're all for fun in the sun being a necessary part of life, so we love the idea of having a DIY floating cooler in the pool. Macgeek at Instructables turns a $2 pool noodle into a floating cooler with string and a plastic container. It's your job to fill it up and enjoy this pool noodle life hack.

More life hacks we love

8 Affordable life hacks you can make with PVC pipe
15 Ridiculously easy life hacks to organize your home
12 Life hacks for the avid gardener

The cutest lunch box you will ever make for your kids

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Sandwiched inside of a long metal pencil box is a row of healthy, home-shaped bites, with little broccoli trees to tickle their tastebuds. Guaranteed to bring a smile to your kid's school lunch.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

Gather lunch box items that lend themselves to being cut into house shapes.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

I found this metal pencil box was the perfect size and shape for my row of houses.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

Using the straight edge of a cookie cutter is a great way to cut the house shapes from your sandwich. It seals the edges and creates fewer crumbs.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

Draw the door and windows using a black food coloring marker.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

Use a block of cheese or string cheese sticks.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

Try to use a fruit that isn't too juicy. Don't want to get your other houses soggy in the box.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

I used Voortman wafer cookies, but any rectangular cookie would work.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

Broccolini worked better for the trees than traditional broccoli — it's thinner and the flower heads are less bulky.

You're eating me out of house and home lunchbox recipe

You're eating me out of house and home lunch box recipe

Ingredients:

  • Long skinny box, like a pencil box
  • Any sandwich of your choice
  • Chunk of cheese
  • Apple
  • Voortman wafer cookies
  • Broccolini
  • Black food coloring marker

Directions:

  1. Start by selecting a long, skinny box with a lid — like a metal or plastic pencil box.
  2. Make a sandwich of your choice and cut it into house shapes, sized to fit inside your box.
  3. Add a crust chimney and draw the front door and windows with a food coloring marker.
  4. Cut a block of cheese into a house shape. Draw the front door and windows.
  5. Cut wedges of an apple into house shapes. Draw the door and windows. Add a chimney piece to the roof, if desired.
  6. Cut the cookie wafers into house shapes. Draw the doors and windows. Add chimney pieces to the roofs, if desired.
  7. Arrange the house-shaped foods inside the box and add long-stemmed broccolini for trees.

More fun twists on lunch

Adorably cheesy animal bites
Octopus and penguin-shaped bread bowls
Shirt and tie quesadillas

Slow Cooker Sunday: Apple cider pulled chicken (plus 2 leftovers ideas)

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In this easy slow cooker base recipe, chicken breasts are cooked on low heat with a mixture of apples, onions and apple cider. The result is a sweet, shredded chicken base that's full of fall flavor.

Apple cider pulled chicken recipe

Chicken breasts are cooked in the slow cooker with apple cider, apples and onions for an easy fall base recipe you can use in a variety of dishes.

Serves 6

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 6 hours | Total time: 6 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken breast
  • 1 apple, sliced
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced
  • 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1-1/2 cups apple cider

Directions:

  1. Place the sliced apples and onions into the base of a slow cooker.
  2. Lay the chicken on top of the apples and onions. Season with poultry seasoning, dry mustard, salt and pepper.
  3. Pour the cider on top, and cook for 6 hours on low heat.
  4. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with 2 forks, return it to the slow cooker, and toss it with the juice mixture.

Apple cider pulled chicken sandwiches recipe

I heard the phrase "an apple without the cheese is like a hug without the squeeze" last year for the first time, and while I've always loved snacking on apples and cheddar, ever since hearing that, I've been using the pairing more and more in savory and sweet dishes. This apple cider pulled chicken sandwich is the perfect excuse to pile on the cheddar. Sharp cheddar plus sweet apple chicken is pretty much the best fall lunch combination you can ask for.

Apple cider pulled chicken: two ways

Ingredients:

  • Apple cider pulled chicken
  • Bread
  • Cheddar cheese

Directions:

  1. Melt the cheddar cheese slices on the bread, and top with apple cider pulled chicken.

Apple cider pulled chicken lettuce wraps recipe

If you're looking for a lower-carb option, then lettuce wraps are another possibility with this sweet chicken. The yogurt-cider drizzle gives them a fun boost of cider flavor too.

Apple cider pulled chicken: two ways

Ingredients:

  • Apple cider pulled chicken
  • Bibb lettuce
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider

Directions:

  1. Spoon the apple cider pulled chicken into lettuce cups.
  2. Mix together the yogurt and apple cider, and drizzle it on top.

More apple cider recipes

Apple cider latkes
Gluten-free apple cider muffins
Apple cider recipes


Bewitching American Horror Story costume idea for Halloween

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American Horror Story: Coven

American Horror Story: Coven

This costume from season 3 is super easy and you may already have some of the pieces. If you don't, here is a guide to get you started:

American Horror Story: Coven Collage

We also recommend buying thin black ribbon to tie around the collar with a bow as they do on the show.

More in Halloween costumes

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How to create a Halloween costume using your own closet
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Yet another study proves eating badly while pregnant is bad for you

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Eating fatty, fried foods is bad for you!

[Insert gasps of shock all around here.]

As a writer, I scour the headlines daily for new studies about pregnancy, and day after day, there seems to be yet another revealing study detailing what would appear to be some pretty common sense information.

Like this study, out of Harvard University of all places, which found that eating fried food on a daily basis doubles the risk of pregnant women developing gestational diabetes. What's that you say, Harvard researchers? Eating fried foods all day, every day is bad for you?

Call me crazy, but I'm just a little more than tired of these sorts of supposedly groundbreaking studies. They seem to go along the lines of revealing little-known facts like, smoking is bad for babies! Eating pure sugar out of your cupboard is linked to negative health outcomes! Drinking an entire keg with your fingers crossed before peeing on that pregnancy stick may lead to your baby having a bad test score in kindergarten!

Now, don't get me wrong — I'm all for increasing women's awareness about health during pregnancy, and as a former labor and delivery nurse, I've pretty much seen it all when it comes to the crazy things women will do when they're pregnant. It no longer shocks me that some women really do believe Mountain Dew is an appropriate substitution for water and that smoking just means a smaller baby and hey, that's a plus when it comes to pushing!

We definitely need education when it comes to pregnancy, but that education — and dare I say those financial resources funding all these eating-bad-foods-is-bad studies — really needs to be more at the ground level, where it can make a difference to the women who really need it. I'm thinking a few less obvious studies and a few more dollars so doctors don't have to pack 20 patients into an hour and could actually have time to educate their patients might make more of a difference.

And while we're on the subject, have you noticed how many of these so-called studies are solely focused on what women eat? How much we eat, what we eat, if we eat too much or not enough? And then our lifestyle habits — smoking, drinking, exercising, thinking positive thoughts, thinking negative thoughts, skipping yoga class, ignoring your spouse, stressed about being stressed? Call me crazy, but that's a whole lot of pressure on the long-held Madonna idealization of women. Bottom line? If we're not perfect from before that baby is a twinkle in an eye or a laboratory, then we're already lacking as mothers. Sorry, future babies, but mom's already failing you.

And I'm going to show my feminist side here, but how about we throw in a few more studies that obsessively look at how the diet and lifestyle habits of men affect their future offspring? It's not like men contribute half the genetic material that make up a human being or anything...

More on pregnancy

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Because baby bumps aren't enough, baby badges are totally necessary
Stop shaming me for the size of my family

Use Butterfinger bars to create these special chocolate treats

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Chocolate Butterfinger bars are easy to make and so easy to pop in the mouth. I seriously downed two in about five minutes just to make sure they tasted OK for the rest of the family. It was a good excuse to use at the time.

Chocolate butterfinger bars

Bar recipes are typically known for indulging in during breakfast or after dinner. In fact, I'm pretty sure I devoured several of these chocolate Butterfinger bars for breakfast. Who says you can't have chocolate with a little dose of candy for an early-morning treat?

Chocolate butterfinger bars recipe

If Butterfinger candies are not your favorite, then feel free to substitute with another candy bar, but don't hold me responsible for the outcome, because Butterfingers are the way to go.

Yields 12

Prep time: 10 minutes | Bake time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1-1/2 cups Cocoa Krispies
  • 1 cup oats
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels
  • 3 (2.1 ounce) Butterfinger candy bars, finely chopped

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. To a food processor, add the Cocoa Krispies, oats, sugar, butter and corn syrup. Blend for about 15 seconds, and then place the crust into an 8 x 8-inch baking dish prepared with nonstick cooking spray. Press down on the crust to ensure it is well packed. Bake for 15 minutes.
  3. Remove the dish from the oven, and add the chocolate morsels. When the chocolate starts to melt, use a spatula to spread it around.
  4. Place the Butterfingers into a food processor, and blend to a fine consistency. Sprinkle on top of the melted chocolate, and allow the dish to cool for at least 30 minutes.

More bar recipes

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Baby names to survive the zombie apocalypse

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All the supplies in the world won't save your brain from the outstretched fingers of zombies — not without a hero to save the day. We think that bun in your oven might be just the gal — or guy — for the job.

If you're a fan of zombie movies or shows like The Walking Dead, you know they usually don't have a happy ending. Almost everybody turns zombie. Grabbing just any old name from a zombie movie won't do. You need the winners who kick zombie tail and live to fight another day. Join us for a screaming run through zombie film history as we help you choose a baby name fit to survive the worst of what the future has in store.

Fierce baby boy names from zombie flicks

Rugged tough guys, am-I-right? Well, not all of these guys are the war hero type. These dudes prove nerds can fight zombies and live to tell the tale, too. For the ultimate zombie fan boy name, we recommend Romero — as in George Romero, the father of the genre.

Ash: Army of Darkness (1992)
Ben: Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Columbus: Zombieland (2009)
Curt: The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Grant: Pontypool (2008)
Jesse: Blood of the Beast (2003)
Kyle: Ninjas vs. Zombies (2008)
Lionel: Dead Alive (1992)
Lincoln: Abraham Lincoln vs. Zombies (2012)
Martin: Dead Snow (2009)
Maxwell: Diary of the Dead (2007)
Nash: Dance of the Dead (2008)
Neville: I Am Legend (2007)
Riley: Land of the Dead (2005)
Shaun: Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Stone: War of the Dead (2011)
Truman: Flight of the Living Dead (2007)
Tucker: Black Sheep (2006)

Fierce baby girl names from zombie flicks

Ladies like Alice from Resident Evil don't need any dudes to save them from the horde. They know their way around a gun and hold their own in battle. Choose a heroic baby girl name, and perhaps your daughter will one day save us all.

Alice: Resident Evil (2002)
Ana: Dawn of the Dead (2004)
Birdy: Zombie Night (2013)
Casey: Mulberry Street (2006)
Dakota: Planet Terror (2007)
Elsa: Silent Night, Zombie Night (2009)
Harper: Rammbock (2010)
Helen: Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Jules: The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Krista: Zombieland (2009)
Lin: Days of Darkness (2007)
Liza: The Beyond (1981)
Marina: Evil: In the Time of Heroes (2009)
Melody: Dead and Breakfast (2004)
Mia: Evil Dead (2013)
Rose: The Boneyard (1991)
Segen: World War Z (2013)
Star: Zombie Wars (2007)
Sydney: Pontypool (2008)
Sylvia: The Plague of the Zombies (1966)

More baby names

Baby names from The Maze Runner
Noun baby names that make a statement
Cool baby names inspired by Guardians of the Galaxy

How to infuse your own olive oil at home (VIDEO)

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You can spend a lot of dough on the fancy bottles at the store, or you can make your own with this easy how-to. Don't be afraid to add a mix of different ingredients to the recipe and see where the flavors take you.

Here's what you'll need to create your own infused olive oil:

  • 1 cup total rosemary and oregano (you can use 1 herb or spice, or mix 2 of them)
  • 4 to 4-1/2 cups olive oil
  • A bottle with an airtight seal
  • A heavy-bottomed, nonreactive saucepan to heat spices

A few things you'll want to note:

  • Be sure to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan for this.
  • We used a candy thermometer to make sure the oil reached 140 degrees F. You definitely don't want your oil to burn.
  • Your oil should smell aromatic. Give your oil a little taste (carefully!) to make sure it tastes strongly of the spices and herbs. If it doesn't, then add more flavorings, and heat again.
  • The oil will keep up to 1 month in the refrigerator. Be sure to let it reach room temperature again before using it.

Other DIY kitchen tips

DIY storage containers
DIY tablecloth
DIY bar cart

Weekly horoscopes: Oct. 13-19

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ARIES (March 20-April 18)

This week you show a different side of yourself: bridge builder. Instead of pouring gasoline on the fire, it looks like you’ll successfully diffuse a tense situation on Oct. 15. Rather than get people riled up with one provocative remark after the next, you will help them to mend their differences by pointing out how both sides benefit from working together on Oct. 16. And finally, sharing something of your own rough-and-tumble experiences provides the very guidance that a loved one needs on Oct. 19. Who knows? This could be the start of a new trend.

Up next: Taurus horoscope

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TAURUS (April 19-May 19)

On Oct. 17 you’ll discover that your good intentions have paved the way to a hellish situation when Mercury retrogrades past your ruling planet Venus. It looks like a gal pal or an associate at work is hanging you out to dry for a mistake that she made. Evidently this is the thanks you get for covering for her when she was called away on “business” days ago. You will feel the need to clear your name but don’t. This person has a reputation that everyone’s familiar with. Next time limit your good works to those who deserve them.

Up next: Gemini horoscope

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GEMINI (May 20-June 19)

Mercury retrograde is rough, but Mercury being your ruling planet makes it doubly challenging for you. Mercury retrograde prompts you to do things that you know you shouldn’t do. There’s just this burning contrariness that fills every word and action, and you can’t resist it. It’s why astrologers advise treating yourself to an impromptu vacation — or perhaps a retreat to an ashram — until its effects pass. If you can’t, then do yourself a favor and question your assumptions on Oct. 16 and 17. You may be reading the situation right, but you’ve got the person all wrong.

Up next: Cancer horoscope

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CANCER (June 20-July 21)

The last quarter moon on Oct. 15 shows that you’ve pushed the envelope as far as it will go in pursuit of resolving a disagreement, a complaint or dispute. It was good that you fought the good fight, but now you’re in danger of alienating the other side right when they’re on the point of meeting you halfway. You have to give to get in situations like this, so think of something you can concede. Not only will your invite cooperation, but it could lead to a much better outcome than the one you originally anticipated.

Up next: Leo horoscope

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LEO (July 22-Aug. 21)

You have no reason to believe a certain friend. She’s cried wolf so many times in the past that she’s lost all credibility. So what are you supposed to do when she comes to you with another hysterical warning on Oct. 16? You listen. The universe chooses peculiar mouthpieces when retrograde Mercury is passing under the beams of the Sun, and you may find that she’s right. She really is saving you from making a huge mistake. Clearly she still has a ways to go before she wins back your trust, but this makes for a good start.

Up next: Virgo horoscope

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VIRGO (Aug. 22-Sept. 21)

You sealed the deal fair and square. It was a Herculean effort, but you reeled in that trophy catch and now it’s flapping around on the deck. Unfortunately, retrograde Mercury aspects on Oct. 16 and 17 show that this victory isn’t signed, sealed and delivered. Nobody’s saying you have to throw that fish back in the water, but you are going to have to share the spoils in order to keep the peace. Expect to give credit to people who don’t deserve it or to cut them in on the action. It won’t sit well, but you’re doing the right thing.

Up next: Libra horoscope

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LIBRA (Sept. 22-Oct. 21)

Somebody else’s stumble could turn out to be a lucky break for you on Oct. 17 when retrograde Mercury conjoins your ruling planet Venus. There’s always a bass-ackwards quality to Mercury when it’s retrograde, but that doesn’t mean its effects are always bad. You may find that being in the wrong place at the right time can deliver enormous dividends. The only thing that might give you moment for pause is the moral question of you profiting from someone else’s expense. Given that this person wasn’t going to benefit anyway, it should be a moot point.

Up next: Scorpio horoscope

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SCORPIO (Oct. 22-Nov. 20)

You need to put down that grudge and walk away from it on Oct. 16. This will be hard to do because you have been maligned. Whatever your original misstep, it doesn't justify the vitriol and outpouring of contempt that you’ve been subjected to. Nevertheless, you’re in danger of escalating things right when they’re about to taper off, which is why you must refuse to retaliate. You need to trust that the critics and the haters have already sown the seeds of their own defeat. All you have to do is step aside and let developments unfold on their own.

Up next: Sagittarius horoscope

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 21-Dec. 20)

It’s amazing how you can spend months (years maybe?) trying to get somewhere and then suddenly you get that big break. That’s what you’ll experience on Oct. 14 when your ruling planet Jupiter forms a sensational sextile to Venus in Libra. This upturn in fortune will be thanks to an old colleague speaking well of you, a recommendation from a friend of a friend or a random LinkedIn search that leads an employer to your Facebook page. This simple development will transform the landscape of your life from a desert rife with tumbleweeds into a verdant field teeming with colorful possibilities.

Up next: Capricorn horoscope

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 21-Jan. 18)

Capricorns are famous for being good with money. Nobody can squeeze a dime out of a nickel like you can. However, frugality doesn’t always yield the returns that you deserve or the long-term security that you desire. That’s why it pays to get an informed opinion. Jupiter, the planet of good fortune and traveling through that part of your solar chart that pertains to the secret alchemy of finances, shows that there are at least three people who can help you to capitalize on your assets and to turn your dross into gold. You just have to contact them.

Up next: Aquarius horoscope

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 19-Feb. 17)

You are a firm believer in doing the right thing. This isn’t based on self-righteousness; it’s based on your belief that there’s justice in the universe. You know that people who see things in terms of an eye for an eye will never escape their cycle of escalating grievances, while those who embrace their highest selves will live a more fulfilling life. It’s as simple as that. You’re often criticized for being either too naive or idealistic, so it will be nice to see how your good works will be recognized and then amply rewarded on Oct. 14 and 19.

Up next: Pisces horoscope

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PISCES (Feb. 18-March 19)

This week’s planets pick up where the sensational Mars/Jupiter trine on Oct. 9 left off. That should have been when you received recognition for a job well-done at work. Propitious Venus, Jupiter and Mars sextiles on Oct. 14, 15 and 19 encourage you to build on this momentum and to scale the heights. You’ll see closed doors spring open at the touch as you’re invited to discuss your future with higher-ups. This means rethinking plans and timetables, but if you don’t take the plunge now, then you can never again complain about the universe leaving you hanging.

More in horoscopes

Weekly love horoscopes: Oct. 13-19
What's your color horoscope?
What's your hair horoscope?

Love horoscopes: Oct. 13 – Oct. 19

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ARIES (March 20-April 18)

This is one of those weeks that you'll wish could last forever. You and your lover are so totally in sync with each other that you don't even have to say anything. And when you do, you'll both laugh because it feels like you're reading each other's minds. It's been a long time since you felt so dreamy, romantic and elated so drink it in. Are there complications? Of course there are — which is why you'll want to get the most out of your cloud nine experience while you can. Reality makes an uninvited re-appearance next week.

Up next: Taurus horoscope >>

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TAURUS (April 19-May 19)

Someone who threatened to spill the beans will do just that on Oct. 17. This may be when a rival tells your boyfriend that she knows what you did last summer or you may receive a startling text from his ex. It's unsettling as only a retrograde Mercury conjunct Venus can be, but other auspicious planetary sextiles show that you will work through this. It may not have been clear before, but your current relationship is a lot stronger than you know. It only goes to show that what the stars ordain no sore loser can pull asunder.

Up next: Gemini horoscope >>

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GEMINI (May 20-June 19)

That wild ride comes to a complete stop on Oct. 16. This is when you'll see for yourself that you've been the author of your own craziness. This may have stemmed from an obsession, fixation or a suspicion that you just wouldn't let go of. You'll be relieved to know that it's finally run its course. It's alarming (not to mention embarrassing) to realize that others keyed into this long ago, but it's nice to know that loved ones and friends will stand by you anyway. Apologies are in order but don't forget the gratitude as well.

Up next: Cancer horoscope >>

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CANCER (June 20-July 21)

You're probably wobbly on your feet after last week's lunar eclipse. It was a doozy! Things may be settled on the outside, but your internal landscape looks like it's in disarray. You need time to sort things out and to pick up the overturned expectations. Your instinct will be to retreat into yourself, but it doesn't look like the planets will let you. You need reassurance and support and time spent talking with friends will do a lot of good on Oct. 15 and 18. This will help you to figure out where you want to go from here.

Up next: Leo horoscope >>

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LEO (July 22-Aug. 21)

Mercury retrogrades are famous for bad timing, botched sales and miscommunications that lead to misadventures. Yet Mercury retrogrades are also famous for reintroducing people back into your life. Now this may not seem like anything out of the ordinary in the era of Facebook, but sensational planetary aspects on Oct. 16 point to you encountering someone you haven't seen in ages. You could become reacquainted through a friend, a relative or you'll bump into him at some neighborhood haunt. Years ago you wondered what might have happened if things had been different. Years later you'll get to find out.

Up next: Virgo horoscope >>

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VIRGO (Aug. 22-Sept. 21)

It's impossible to think straight when you're in debt. You withdraw into yourself and then obsess about how to pay back all those bills. This anxiety can also switch your sex drive into "sleep" mode because any output of energy is seen as an unnecessary expenditure. You turn off to men and men subsequently turn off to you. Thank heavens the sun/Mars sextile on Oct. 15 brings good news regarding money. You'll be glad to know that finances are on the mend. The sextile will also reboot your love life and bring your romantic energies back online.

Up next: Libra horoscope >>

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LIBRA (Sept. 22-Oct. 21)

This week you meet someone who looks like trouble. Everything about him will be wrong. Maybe he reminds you of your ex, doesn't make enough money or is impossibly chauvinistic and self-involved. So why are you going to break all of those rules that you spent so much time drafting in the first place? Because he's fun. And fun is exactly what's been missing from your love life lately. Ironically what starts off as a quick pick-me-up could turn into something more. You may regard him as a fling, but he sees you as the real thing.

Up next: Scorpio horoscope >>

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SCORPIO (Oct. 22-Nov. 20)

You need to let go of the past indignities. This isn't easy because so much of your emotional willpower is built on a pyre of slights, rejections and humiliations. Well, it's time to light that pyre and watch it all burn to the ground. Venus traveling through that part of your solar chart that pertains to sacrifice asks that you turn the other cheek rather than keep a clenched fist. It's the only way to bring to an end the cycle of incrimination so that you can move on to a new chapter in your love life.

Up next: Sagittarius horoscope >>

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 21-Dec. 20)

Attraction is a funny thing. Nobody knows why it seizes hold of someone and makes that person do the things he does. Unfortunately retrograde Mercury conjunct Venus on Oct. 17 shows that the person who's fallen under your spell will be someone like your supervisor, your best friend's husband or even your boyfriend's ex's boyfriend. You'll want to slap him across the face and tell him to snap out of it but this could have the opposite effect. It would be wisest to steer clear of this person until the effect passes — which would be after Oct. 23.

Up next: Capricorn horoscope >>

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 21-Jan. 18)

This week you'll hear from your ex, some guys you used to date and even that fellow you were crushing on a while back who turned you down. It's weird because you thought that everyone had moved on. Evidently that's not the case. Get ready to listen to them wax nostalgic about missed opportunities with you and the roads not taken. You'll be unmoved (you got over them long ago), but be a good sport and hear them out. After they're done, help them pick their egos up off the ground, dust them off, and carry on their way.

Up next: Aquarius horoscope >>

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 19-Feb. 17)

It's the perfect time to get away with a loved one. You both could use a break. And if you don't have a loved one, then grab the first guy in reach and invite him to make a weekend of it with you. He may be bewildered at first, but he'll say yes. That's because the planetary energies coursing through your horoscope are so good that just about any trip you take will turn into a lovely holiday. Everything from food to romance to ambiance to the smell of autumn in the air will be just right.

Up next: Pisces horoscope >>

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PISCES (Feb. 18-March 19)

It's funny how you'll get others to talk about their insecurities and secrets but you clam up when it comes to divulging your own. You might respond with phrases like "oh it's nothing" or "not a big deal" as you wave away their inquiries. This won't fly on Oct. 16 when retrograde Mercury conjoins the sun. You will be pressed to tell a potential love interest why you continue to keep him at arm's length. Born under the zodiac sign of unconditional love, you can have some real problems with intimacy. Here's your chance to solve them.

More horoscopes

Your weekly horoscope


6 Female celebs who married much older men

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7 Other older men Jennifer Lawrence can crush on

1. Calista Flockhart

Perhaps one of the most successful Hollywood marriages at the moment is Calista Flockhart and Harrison Ford's. The pair began dating in 2002, when the Indiana Jones actor was 60 years old and the Ally McBeal actress was 38 years old. However, the couple waited a long time before they headed down the aisle and they only got married in 2010, but their relationship still appears to be going strong.

2. Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich was married for the second time in 1997, when she was just 22 years old. She married a man 16 years her senior, French film director, Luc Besson.

In this case, age was not just a number and the pair parted ways just two years after they were married. The Resident Evil actress is now married to the director, Paul W.S. Anderson (since 2009), who is 11 years older than her.

Yay! Michael Douglas & Catherine Zeta-Jones are "going great"

3. Shania Twain

Country music beauty, Shania Twain, married record producer and songwriter, Robert Lange, in December of 1993. He was 16 years her senior and the marriage did not end well. In 2010, the pair bid farewell to their marriage of 17 years because Lange cheated on the "From This Moment On" singer with her best friend. Classy! It all worked out in the end for Twain, though, because she married her former best-friend's ex-husband, Frédéric Thiébaud, a year later.

4. Catherine Zeta-Jones

Catherine Zeta-Jones married a man who was more than 20 years her senior. The Welsh beauty married Michael Douglas in November of 2000. Although the pair looked to be headed for splitsville in 2013, they appear to have made their marriage work and are back on track. The pair also has two children together.

Céline Dion postpones shows due to husband's cancer

5. Céline Dion

Canadian songstress, Céline Dion, married René Angélil on Dec. 17, 1994, when she was 26 years old and he was 52 years old. The couple has three children together and is still going strong, with Dion choosing to cancel her upcoming performances and all work obligations to spend time with her ill husband.

6. Mia Farrow

Mia Farrow married Frank Sinatra in 1966, when he was 50 years old and she was just 21 years old. However, Farrow's relationship with the "Fly Me to the Moon" singer only lasted two years because Sinatra demanded that she drop out of the film, Rosemary's Baby, three-quarters of the way through filming to star in a film with him. When she refused, he served her with divorce papers.

Tori Spelling invites Dean's ex to her daughter's unusual birthday bash

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E! News has the exclusive photos from the day and it's clear that Tori is looking to make amends with her estranged hubby's first wife, Mary Jo Eustace. The entertainment site's source noted that it was the reality star who invited the ex to the event. They also exchanged a few friendly words while at the party.

Tori Spelling is proud of her cheating husband

The meeting between the two loves of Dean was filmed for the second season of Lifetime's True Tori reality show. In the sneak peek of the upcoming season, Tori said to Mary Jo, "You have one story that's painted for you and you made a pretty accurate portrait of him. [The infidelity] became true in my own relationship. You can say 'I told you so.'"

With the birthday invite, it appears the two women have buried the hatchet. Tori was also seen spending time at the party with her mother, Candy Spelling, even though they have had a tumultuous relationship in the past.

Poor Tori Spelling hurt by Ian Ziering's "train wreck" comment

As for Dean, he seems to still be in the doghouse, even though the E! News source said the couple "seemed fine." The source added, "There was not a lot of interaction between the two. They did not show any PDA."

It's clear that the day was all about the kids, who enjoyed decorating tutus, jumping in a bouncy house and getting their faces painted.

The attendee summed up, "Overall the mood of the party was light. There was no drama to speak of."

Let's hope it's a lighter season of True Tori, as well.

Russell Brand changes his tune about ex-wife Katy Perry

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Russell Brand dishes on sex with Katy Perry, and it's not good

During an interview with Matt Lauer on the Today show on Monday, Oct. 13, while the Get Him to the Greek actor was promoting his new book, Revolution, he spoke about spreading the love through society —something that he didn't seem to show Perry towards the end of their relationship. Remember his comments on their sex life? That alone was enough to hurt her.

The former couple was married for 14 months and the "Dark Horse" singer appeared to be completely head-over-heels in love with Brand.

Speaking of his marriage, Brand said, "I really enjoyed it," adding, "Katy Perry is an amazing person."

Courtney Love turned down Russell Brand because he's stinky

However, it wasn't all enjoyable and Brand struggled with the constant media attention surrounding his marriage.

"What happened was after you get married, like anyone who's been married or come out of a relationship, you obviously have a lot of expectations," Brand explained. "And if those expectations don't work out, then it's probably time to grow a big beard and walk around in pajamas. That's my advice."

Katy Perry was suicidal after split from Russell Brand

Perry, for her part, has previously spoken out about her marriage to Brand and how completely broken her divorce left her.

She revealed the meaning behind her emotional lyrics in "By the Grace of God" to Billboard magazine, saying, "That song is evident of how tough it really was at a certain point. I asked myself, 'Do I want to endure? Should I continue living?'"

Watch Russell Brand's interview on the Today show below.

Russell Brand on Today Show

Russell Brand on Today Show

9 Books to help you become a real wicked witch

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With Halloween rapidly approaching, it's time to talk witchcraft. Halloween is the biggest Wiccan holiday of the year. In the pagan tradition, it is referred to as "Samhain" and it marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, the"darker half" of the year.

For most of us, Halloween is an excuse to dress slutty and drink funny-colored cocktails. For those of us with a Wiccan persuasion, it's a night of worship, celebration and (if you're in the mood) naked campfire dancing. Since we are thankfully no longer burning witches at the stake, I say it's time we embrace our inner priestesses.

Historical fiction perfect for Halloween

Not sure how to go about casting that love spell? Unsure of the proper use of a broomstick? Well, read on. We've rounded up nine books to guide you (and even your kids) down the path of witchery and whimsy.

The Penguin Book of Witches

1. Know your history

The Penguin Book of Witches by Katherine Howe gives you a look back at witch history... which is pretty dark, indeed. (Salem might come to mind.) Howe traces the real-life account of witches from medieval Europe through to colonial America. In order to compile this lengthy retelling, she used real documents dating all the way back to the 1500s. She sheds light on the reality behind the legends. Don't forget that it's important we know our history or we're doomed to repeat it.

The Good Spell Book

2. Just for fun

Back in high school (during my Craft) phase, I found The Good Spell Book by Gillian Kemp at Urban Outfitters and fell in love. I went the whole nine yards: I bought candles, scented oils and witchy wear. The book focuses more on gypsy magic and it's just good fun. From spells to attract the person you desire, to getting rid of a headache, this beautiful little book has it all. Safe for Halloween party consumption with no fear of being entombed for evil intent.

To Ride a Silver Broomstick

3. For the novice

Although sometimes attacked for watering down Wicca, Silver RavenWolf did a lot for bringing the religious practice to the mainstream. To Ride a Silver Broomstick is her introduction to all things witch for what she calls the "new generation." Her book is full of information, but also humor and personal anecdotes. So what if it's a little cutesy? RavenWolf shares the basics of her religion and starts wannabes on the path to wonder witch.

Hocus Pocus hokum? Tina Fey sequel not happening

Pagan Parenting

4. For parents

If you're already a practicing pagan, Pagan Parenting by Kristin Madden is the book for you as you raise your kids. Madden gives guidance on sharing your religion with your little ones. After all, children are the future and who better to carry on ancient traditions? This book isn't about force-feeding kids Wicca or spell-casting. Much of it revolves around teaching children honor and respect and nurturing your child's spirituality. Sounds good to me.

If You Want to be a Witch

5. A practical guide

You know how in The Craft, the girls could, like, control the weather and miraculously remove scars? OK, so those things aren't real. Edain McCoy is the author of over a dozen books about witchcraft, but she gives the down-and-dirty real truth in If You Want to be a Witch. She doesn't glam it up; she explains her religion as it is with plenty of info about rituals, celebrations and even divination. This is a good crash course to help you decide if the path of Wicca is really for you.

A Witches' Bible

6. A comprehensive guide

Ready for an info dump? Here you go! A Witches' Bible: The Complete Witches' Handbook is a compilation of Wicca's greatest hits by Janet and Stewart Farrar. Whereas many books about witchcraft touch on these topics, Witches' Bible feeds you all you need to know about initiation rites, the Book of Shadows, astral projection and even sex. Not necessarily easy reading, but chock-full of all you need to know.

The Secret Circle: Shelley Hennig dishes witches and her secret power wish!

Cunningham's Book of Shadows

7. Learn your spells

Scott Cunningham was a revered teacher of all things Wicca until he passed away in 1993. Cunningham's Book of Shadows was published after his death and includes some of his most powerful spells. I would suggest this book for a practicing Wiccan, as opposed to the curious seeker. Cunningham includes a long list of rituals, incantations and a guide to herbs. If you seek to cure what ails you (or a loved one), this book will have the magical answer.

Wicca Spellcraft for Men

8. For your warlock

Men can be witches, too, of course! A.J. Drew's Wicca Spellcraft for Men will have your dude working his own spells in no time. According to Drew, there is a difference between male and female energy and that difference affects the spells we perform. The book addresses issues men face in their day-to-day lives. Who knows? Wicca could be a fun practice for the two of you!

The Truth about Witchcraft Today

9. The myth buster

We've talked about movies and spells and broomsticks, but let's get real. We go back to Scott Cunningham in The Truth About Witchcraft Today. People would believe witchcraft is about blood sacrifice and Satan worship when, in fact, it is anything but. This is a book for the doubter, the persecutor and even the fool. Learn about the Wiccan connection to nature and the reality behind an ancient religion, again rising in popularity.

More witches and Halloween

Gasp! Is the Salem set cursed?
How to spook up your home for Halloween
Witches of East End creator promises "darker, scarier, sexier" Season 2

Halloween fun: Celebs Jessica Alba, Fergie, J.Lo at Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch

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Jessica Alba pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Jessica Alba

Wearing distressed bell-bottom jeans, a white tank and a fringed bag, Jessica Alba looked bohemian chic as she held the hand of her daughter, 3-year-old Haven, at Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch in West Hollywood. Alba arrived at the patch with her husband, Cash Warren, and their other daughter, 6-year-old Honor (pictured, top). Alba ran into several celebrity friends, including Hart of Dixie star Jaime King.

Fergie and Axl at pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Fergie

Fergie and Josh Duhamel took their adorable 1-year-old son Axl to the pumpkin patch, where he showed off his new walking skills as he wobbled through the haystacks with Fergie looking on.

They later went to pick out the perfect pumpkin, where Duhamel snapped pictures on his phone as his son walked through the pumpkin patch.

Jennifer Lopez, Max and Emme at Pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez arrived at Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch dressed down in distressed jeans, a plaid shirt and wedge sneakers. The singer had her chauffeur drop her off with her 6-year-old twins Max and Emme in their white convertible Bentley. The twins had fun getting their faces painted and playing on the slides while J.Lo looked on and chatted with her longtime manager, Benny Medina.

Molly Sims and son at pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Molly Sims

Actress Molly Sims and her husband Scott Stuber had fun with their adorable son Brooks at the pumpkin patch. Sims is currently pregnant with her second child and showed off her baby bump in a cute floral top.

Jaime King and son at pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Jaime King

Hart of Dixie star Jaime King pulled her son James Knight in a wagon with a cute pumpkin propped next to him. The actress was spotted chatting with Jessica Alba at the celeb-filled pumpkin patch.

Pete Wentz and Bronx at pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Pete Wentz

Pete Wentz took his son Bronx (who is sporting a cast on his arm) to the pumpkin patch for the day. Bronx is his son with his ex-wife, Ashlee Simpson. The Fall Out Boy rocker recently welcomed another son named Saint with his girlfriend Meagan Camper.

Ian Ziering pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Ian Ziering

Sharknado star and 90210 alum Ian Ziering was spotted with his wife Erin Ludwig and their two daughters Penna and Mia at Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch.

Michael Wetherly and family at pumpkin patch

Photo credit: Michael Wright/WENN.com

Michael Weatherly

It's a pumpkin patch selfie. NCIS actor Michael Weatherly and his wife Bojana Jankovic posed for a selfie with their daughter Olivia while surrounded by pumpkins at Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch.

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