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Boozy fudge thumbprint cookies are the perfect way to celebrate love

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After an overzealous wholesale purchase of a case of black beans, I decided I had enough on hand to finally give this thing a shot. And you know what? It's actually not bad. Heck, I'd say they're pretty good!

They're also pretty much perfect for Valentine's Day, with their fudgy cookie texture and red strawberry filling. The fact that they have a little hint of booze and a whole lot of healthy going on in them doesn't hurt either. Say "I love you" with some cookies this year.

Fudge thumbprints with strawberry-amaretto jam recipe

These fudgy cookies with a secret healthy ingredient have a boozy strawberry center and are the perfect way to celebrate Valentine's Day.

Yields 12-14

Prep time: 10 minutes | Inactive time: 10 minutes | Bake time: 12 minutes | Total time: 32 minutes

Ingredients:

For the cookies

  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons Nutella
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
For the filling
  • 8 ounces frozen strawberries
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon amaretto
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Directions:

  1. In a food processor, combine the beans, coconut oil, Nutella and vanilla extract. Process until smooth.
  2. Add the remaining cookie ingredients to the food processor, and process again until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
  3. Transfer the mixture to freezer-safe bowl (it will be the consistency of brownie batter), and pop it into the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes to help firm up.
  4. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat.
  5. In a small saucepot, combine the strawberries, honey and amaretto. Bring to a simmer, and let cook down, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are broken down.
  6. In a small bowl, mix together the water and cornstarch, add it to the saucepot, and stir until the mixture has thickened. Remove from the heat, and set aside.
  7. Roll a heaping tablespoon of cookie dough into a ball, and place it on the baking sheet. Gently press down in the middle with your thumb to create a well. Repeat until you use up all the cookie dough.
  8. Bake the cookies for 12 minutes, then remove them from oven, and press the middles down again with either your thumb or a spoon, as the cookies will be hot enough to reinforce the well.
  9. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack, and let them cool completely.
  10. Once cooled, fill the cookie centers with the strawberry mixture.

For tons of great recipes, like our I <3 Comfort Food page on Facebook.

More thumbprint cookie recipes

Raspberry thumbprint cookies
Biscoff thumbprint cookies
Sugarplum fruit butter thumbprint cookies


3-Step DIY strawberry rose bouquet

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It only takes three steps to create each flower. Yep, three steps to making a DIY strawberry flower (that you can eat). Four steps if you want to wrap it in paper and gift it as a bouquet. Below is the list of what you need and how to make them. Oh, did I mention that apart from delicious, this bouquet is also super economical. You can make it for less than $6.00. I did.

Supplies:

  1. Strawberries ($4 for a pack)
  2. Skewers ($1 for a pack)
  3. Knife

Directions:

  1. Create petals: Cut upside down (thin) V-shaped slits around the strawberry.
  2. Make flower bloom: Pull the tip of the V-shapes toward you to make the petals.
  3. Add a stem: insert a skewer into the strawberry.

That's it! Simple, right? It may take a little practice at first, so simply eat them if you don't like the way they look. I ate two before I got the hang of it, then gifted the others. Also, make sure the slits are thin so the petals fold out (bloom) easier. Check out my website for more fun creations over here. Have a happy Valentine's Day! And remember, treat yourself great!

11 Reasons we're on Team Leeza for the Celebrity Apprentice finale

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1. Vivica Fox endorsed Leeza Gibbons over herself

When Donald Trump asked Vivica if he should keep her instead of Leeza, Vivica was flat-out honest and told Trump he should keep Leeza. Coming from such a fierce competitor, that's quite an endorsement!

More: 11 Things only reality TV viewers would understand

Celebrity Apprentice

2. Kevin Jonas is desperate to redeem himself

After losing out to Geraldo earlier in the season with a video he directed, there's no doubt that Kevin Jonas wants to prove his talent as a director and make Leeza's Universal theme-park commercial the hands-down winner.

3. It's Geraldo's world, we're just living in it

Somehow, despite all his career gaffes (Al Capone's vault, anyone?), Geraldo has an enormous ego. We don't think he'll be able to see beyond himself and lead his team to victory.

4. Ian Ziering loathes Geraldo

We get that Trump probably put Ziering on Geraldo's team to create conflict for the cameras, but "EYE-an," as he calls himself, could easily undermine Geraldo's efforts to win. In fact, we hope he does! Even Geraldo admitted, "Lorenzo and Ian [were] two of the guys I butted heads with. It was almost as if Trump was playing a joke on me."

More: Teresa Giudice's younger daughters don't know the truth about her prison sentence

Celebrity Apprentice

5. Leeza's natural ability to play nice

Leeza is a true leader, using her quiet resolve to motivate and inspire her team in a positive way. She's smart and diplomatic, and we'd all love to work for her.

6. Harry-aldo Potter?

Why is Geraldo dressing as Harry Potter? Why does he wear those cherry-colored glasses? We just don't understand anything that's going on inside that man's head.

7. "Magic of Memories" theme

Universal Studios Orlando is all about creating exciting memories with your family. Leeza's charity is all about helping those dealing with Alzheimer's disease, the "thief of memories." Putting the two together is genius.

8. Brandi Glanville's support is huge

Trump wisely put Brandi on Team Leeza. No real leader herself, Brandi has fiercely supported Leeza while on the show. She said, "I'm here for Leeza because I've never met a more kind, genuine person. She's inspirational, aspirational. She's never once not given 100 percent. Leeza will kill this."

Celebrity Apprentice

9. Geraldo is an emotional control freak

Last week, we saw Geraldo take over the commercial shoot from Lorenzo Lamas and Vivica Fox with complete disregard for all the preparation they put into making the shot list. Why? Who knows, but Geraldo did say, "From now on I'm in charge of every shot, I'm sorry. This is bullshit!"

10. Olivia Newton-John is Leeza's secret weapon

Newton-John will sing her 1980 hit "Magic" on behalf of Leeza's team, something we expect will wow audiences and impress the Donald.

More: An open letter to Comedy Central: Why it's time for a female late-night host

11. For Leeza, it's personal

Leeza promised her mother, Gloria Jean, who suffered from Alzheimer's disease, that she would tell her story. Gloria Jean passed away in 2008, but Leeza created the charity organization Leeza's Care Connection to help other families who are struggling against the same disease.

The Celebrity Apprentice finale will air Monday at 8pm on NBC.

Who do you think will win? Weigh in with your thoughts in the comments section below.

Don't forget to love yourself this Valentine's Day

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Love: "An intense feeling of deep affection"

Today is when restaurant reservation waiting lists are long and babysitters are called. It always amazes me that even in our busy life with work meetings and family obligations we as a people take the time to stop love and live. Nothing warms the heart more than a love that is reassured.

I really want to change our focus a bit on Valentine's Day

You see, this year has been a great year for me! This year I learned about being brave in my personal life, professional life, I took risks, had difficult conversations, made some personal goals and am going towards them everyday. I made a commitment in 2014 to make my relationships stronger, more honest and value the ones I love even more.

So, this Valentine's Day I want to take the time to love myself, nurture myself and thank myself, for nothing also warms the heart than a self-assured love for yourself.

Not sure if everyone will be getting gifts this season of love, so I want to encourage all of you to take the day for yourself with me and get to the real heart of the word love. Trust me, I enjoy chocolates and flowers but I also know that these things do not translate into "an intense feeling of deep affection." The love you feel when you have your child, or the thumping of your heart when you pray for your loved one to get well, the butterflies in your stomach when your love is returning home from a long trip... these are all manifestations of love one feels for your beloved. What about the person whom has been with you the longest? Do they get to feel that appreciation too?

Let's face it. In the journey of love search, we are looking for that one person who says "you complete me" and that one person that ideally "completes you."

But here is reality, and in my observations of the ups and downs of life an undeniable truth. One human cannot complete the other. Honestly we are already a perfect package. We are accompanied with emotions, intellect, all the tools to have joy, inspiration and focus. The journey is finding all those tools within us and making them work. Nobody knows you or can learn about you fully other than yourself. Remember all the times you were nervous about a new job, new project or new relationship? Who calmed your heart and talked you through it, spilling over with positive thoughts to help you face your fears?

And in the journey of love search we are also looking for someone to make us happy.

But here is another reality; life throws curve balls. Yes, there are moments in which you just cannot be happy, simply because that is not the emotion called for in certain situations. This is not a bad thing, for those not-so-pleasant emotions are necessary for our growth. No person will come and replace that emotion with "happy." But you will find the inner strength to strategize, plan and face pain. You probably already have opened the doors to joy so many times when you could have chosen fear.

And, of course we not only look for someone to not only complete us, make us happy but also to make us feel safe.

Another reality, and unfortunately one of the hardest lessons one has to learn. Would you not agree that no human can protect another completely? Yes, curve balls again. There are situations that will come your way in which only your resolve will help you; safety is not guaranteed by your relationship with your beloved.

In my mediation practice, I have had the honor to meet women who have sometimes been betrayed by their lovers or husbands. Through the painful discussions and self discovery of these mediation sessions the result is always the same: People realize that they shortchanged themselves when they convinced themselves that others loved them. But they also realize they shortchanged themselves by not valuing their heart. If you believe and know that you do love yourself, you will never allow your heart to be shortchanged. It's a good organ, pumping blood, beating for others and facing the unbearable; thank it sometimes.

The truth is the most important person you can love, the person who can most protect you by caring for your health and life choices, the person that can make you the most happy by always having a limitless source of happy when required, the person who can complete you because he or she is so dedicated to your growth, your victories is you.

You see, no matter what, in the end it's just your heart and you. People will come and go, some by choice and some not. If you are able to lean on your own heart for growth and strength, its love is limitless. After all, we all want to give love. We cannot if we do not nurture the source first. I am lucky to have a husband I love. But I know I could not love him the way I do unless I love myself.

This Valentine's Day I am also celebrating

  • my heart
  • my working body
  • my resolve
  • my dedication
  • my courage

You have to believe me. Come what may, people may hurt you through their words and actions, but you will be all right.

My daughter, who is 4, came home this week saying that a boy in the hallway called her "The ugliest girl he has ever seen." She really did not know what it meant, and perhaps the other kid did not either. Apparently she was clowning around and the boy did not know how to respond so he chose the word ugly.

Tempted to say a lot of things to protect her heart, I paused.

I simply told her that many people sometimes say things that are mean. This is not the first, and probably not the last. She just laughed and ran off.

Later she handed me a Valentine's Day card she made for me and her father. I embraced her. Then she showed me a third card, a Valentine's Day for herself. In which she wrote her own name and her own message: "I love you."

I realized at that moment... our hearts love us so naturally. I believe it comes from a undeniable source of our higher power, God given. This voice I feel has been the whispers in my heart all my life. So If I recognize myself I will recognize the source. Somehow we forget the sense and value of ourselves as we grow and let others define our worth either by their kindness or cruelty.

I carried her in my arms and kissed her so she knew how proud I was of her, but honestly I think she knew how proud she already was of herself, and this is all I hope she ever needs to know.

Image: Todor Tsvetkov/Getty Images

Here's what Fifty Shades means to a real dominatrix

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Mistress Isobel is a Toronto dominatrix of British origin. She doesn't just sit around in a dungeon all day. She is an artist, storyteller and educator who tours the world as a BDSM specialist.

She admits on her website: "Going through the British school system gave Me a hankering for doling out pain and shame." (And yes, Mistress Isobel always refers to Herself with a capital letter.)

More: Fifty Shades quiz: Are you a dom, sub or something in-between?

She also appeared in the Showtime series SEX with Sunny Megatron: a show intended to explore humanity's deepest, most intimate fantasies.

"When I read The Story of O in university, and I was delighted to find that other people had the same fantasy as I did. That was six years ago," she said of how her BDSM education began. (The Story of O is still her go-to pantydropper.)

Since then, she has developed a dedicated following. One of her customers exclaims on her website: "Everyone deserves a dominatrix this wonderful." Isobel is always learning, as she is currently studying rope bondage suspension.

But, let's get serious. What does the real dom/sub experience entail?

According to Isobel, it's all about the client. "After we have negotiated a scene and established signals that allows them to end it if they are uncomfortable, they have no say in how I treat them. I have limitless possibilities in how I can make someone feel in their body and mind, and it is up to me to create a flowing narrative of physical sensation."

More: 12 Unusual 'safe' words people actually use in the bedroom

Her clients are not freaks who show up in body condoms. Instead, they are native English speakers, ranging in age from twenty-five to sixty. They are usually respectable business people, not freaks. They are people who want to be dominated, but they are nothing like Anastasia Steele of Fifty Shades fame.

In fact, when asked if Fifty Shades was accurate to her own lifestyle, Mistress Isobel said, "Well, I don't identify as an abuser, so … not at all?"

She continued, "If I'm at all angry or annoyed, I won't play. I never ever, ever take my genuine frustrations out on someone else. Acting in anger is likely to bring out a loss of control, and I could end up hurting someone in a way they didn't ask for."

She's not angry about Fifty Shades, though; she just wants people to understand: "Read it as pure mindless entertainment, not as a guide book."

More: Jamie Dornan and BDSM: How he really prepared for Fifty Shades

And yes, it's true: Fifty Shades has brought the BDSM subculture into the mainstream. Mistress Isobel said, culture is "certainly embracing the image. Look at the new clothing rails at H&M. Look at Rhianna, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus. Sex and kink is becoming normalized. Do I like it? Honestly I think it waters down the integrity of the craft. It takes skill to wield a flogger, not just a pair of PVC knickers."

Will Mistress Isobel be seeing Fifty Shades of Grey when it hits theaters? She admits, yes, "for sociological and psychological research." She said, "I'd like to see who and what they emphasize in the film. Will it be the lily-white tender flower or the cold-hearted, troubled billionaire?"

Still, she wants to make one thing clear about BDSM relationships: "A submissive doesn't live in fear of their dominant's jealous rage, because play partners take care of each other in and around scenes."

More reading

4 Ways Fifty Shades is a ripped-off version of Secretary
BDSM relationship tips for beginners
BDSM romance Dangerously Bound the next Fifty Shades?

4 Ways to make shared custody work

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When you share kids, communication becomes even more important after a divorce. When parents can communicate well concerning custody issues, everyone is better off. Here are some ways to make shared custody work for your family.

1. Keep your opinions to yourself

Every expert agrees in the old saying, "if you don’t have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." So even though it may be tempting to bad-mouth your ex or blame him/her for circumstances, it's much better to just say nothing at all. Talking bad about your ex to your kids or when they can hear you will only hurt your relationship with them in the long run.

2. Don't micro manage

Try to set boundaries for different aspects of parenting like bedtimes, food habits and discipline. If you and your ex can agree that, as a general rule, you'll put the kids to bed by 8 p.m. on school nights, you'll probably both stay within the boundaries most of the time. And when you find out your ex let the kids stay up later to watch your team in the World Series, well, take a deep breath and remember that only the big things are worth fighting for.

3. Include your kids in custody decisions when appropriate

As your kids get older, their extracurricular activities will begin to shape your schedule more and more. Especially when they are teenagers, shared custody situations will work out much better if you allow the kids some input on which days and times they will spend with each parent.

4. Find an effective way to communicate with your ex

One of the biggest reasons I created SupportPay was to improve communication with my ex. It's a lot easier to keep emotions out of the conversation when the conversation happens in written format. It also lowers the risk of miscommunication and if there's ever confusion about what we've agreed upon, we can refer back to our original conversation on the SupportPay site. And a bonus of using a service like SupportPay to handle communication with your ex is that you can keep these conversations private between you and your ex... and keep your kids out of the middle.

Image: Image SourceGetty Images

Makeup tutorials for women of all shades

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The best way to find out what makeup colours suit you is to experiment. Test lots of different bases, eye shadows, lipsticks and blushers: it's a process of elimination. The right makeup should emphasise your features, make your skin look smooth and healthy and make you feel awesome.

Pale skin

Makeup tips for pale skin

Photo credit: Lauren Curtis/YouTube

Pale skin makeup Collage

Base

If you have the complexion of a porcelain doll, it's best to avoid the overly made-up look. Really pale-skinned women don't normally manage to get that sun-kissed glow the natural way (SPF 30+ all the way) so to achieve gorgeous dewy skin, start off with a good quality tinted moisturiser. Use face powder sparingly as pale skin is more susceptible to that caked-on look. Try: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer.

Eyes

Brown mascara and eyeliner should be a pale-skinned girl's makeup bag essentials. Black eyeliner should be used with caution and only when balanced out with eye shadow. Brown will blend in with your skin much better, particularly if you have a pink-toned complexion. A light taupe or peach shimmery shadow over your entire lid with a pale champagne highlighter is always a winning combination on pale skin. Try: Bobbi Brown Shimmer Wash Eyeshadow in Champagne.

Lips

Pale skin doesn't have to mean pale lipstick. Be brave enough to experiment with brighter shades. Just remember the one golden rule: bright lips work best with muted eyes. Try a few different lip colours until you find the one that best suits your skin tone. If you want to stick to a subtle lip, go for a pinky beige balm. Try: Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Satisfaction.

Blush

Again, finding the right blusher for your pale skin depends on its tone (i.e. pink or orange). A honey-apricot blush, applied onto the fullest part of your cheeks and swept up towards the temples, is great for warming up pale skin. Stay away from sparkly or glittery blushers, which look awesome on darker skin shades but are likely to turn you into a circus act. Try: Rimmel London Stay Blushed in Apricot Glow.

Medium skin

Makeup tips for medium skin

Photo credit: Dulce Candy/YouTube

Medium skin make up collage

Base

If you have medium skin, you can afford to spice up your neutrals a bit more than your pale-skinned sisters. Foundation and concealer with yellow undertones will flatter your pale-but-not-too-pale complexion. Try: Benefit Boi-ing Concealer in Medium.

Eyes

For a variation of the dark smokey eye that looks great on medium skin, apply a light layer of pale golden-bronze or rose-gold shadow from lids to creases. To open up your eye area, blend a shimmery highlighter in a pearl hue along your brow bone and in the inner corners of your eyes. Try: Jemma Kidd Eye Essentials Shimmer Eyeshadow in Pearl.

Lips

A nude lip is always a great lip choice either for that "no makeup" day look or with dark eyes for night. You can't go wrong with a reddish-brown lip liner to warm up your lips; it will work with any colour of lipstick. Try: Body Shop Lip Liner in Beech.

Blush

A soft, pinkish-brown blush is your best friend if you have medium skin, as your skin is probably already warm and only needs a little enhancement. This lets you go bolder with the rest of your makeup look. A muted mauve blush is perfect for a slightly edgier look. Try: Rimmel London Lasting Finish Soft Colour Mono Blush in Pink Rose.

More: Makeup for round faces

Olive skin

Makeup tips for olive skin

Photo credit: happytreasuress/YouTube

Olive skin makeup

Base

Women with olive skin, as well as those from India and the Middle East and with Hispanic roots, are lucky in that they can pull off the widest range of makeup colours. For a base that complements but doesn't mask the natural beauty of your skin, pick dewy products with names like caramel and honey. Try: Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse in Caramel.

Eyes

Olive skins can really go to town with eye makeup, from rich browns and burgundies to dark greens and sapphire blues. Eye shadow with a shimmer effect will lift your eyes rather than weigh them down. Pair with dark brown or black eyeliner and mascara to really enhance your peepers. Try: Shu Uemura Pressed Eyeshadow in Dark Green.

Lips

Warm pinks, sheer shimmery nudes, corals, peachy apricots, bronzes, golds and sheer blood reds are just a few of the lip colours that work really well on olive skin. Try: Clinique Chubby Stick Intense Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm in Heftiest Hibiscus.

Blush

Olive skin has green undertones so finding the right colour blush is crucial. Warm colours work best such as berries, deep peaches, golden corals, deep warm pinks, dark apricots and bronzes. Go for a cream formula to get that dewy look. Try: Illamasqua Cream Blusher in Rude.

Dark skin

Makeup tips for dark skin

Photo credit: Destiny Godley/YouTube


Dark skin make up collage

Base

The darker your complexion, the more careful you have to be with your base. If you have a lot of ashiness in your skin, counteract it with a warm base with red in it. Go for an extra-hydrating concealer to keep your skin glowing. Try: Lancôme Teint Visionnaire Skin Perfecting Makeup Duo in 15.

Eyes

Gold eye shadow is the best highlighter for dark skin. You can wear the boldest eye colours of all skin shades: coppers, bronzes, coffees, jewel-toned greens, purples and blues and the darkest blues, purples and greys will look amazing. Make the whites of your eyes really pop with a sapphire blue eye pencil along the inner rims. Try: Urban Decay Electric Pressed Pigment Palette.

Lips

Go for sheer lip gloss in shimmering bronzes, golds, honeys, oranges, corals, tangerines and plums or lipstick in sheer blackberry, maroon, burgundy and raisin. Try: Max Factor Lipfinity in Frivolous.

Blush

Use a bold, highly pigmented blush shade on your dark skin, otherwise it will look muddy or simply won't show up at all. A chocolate blush under the apples of your cheeks and up towards your temples always works on dark skin but don't be afraid to try burnt orange, magenta or fuchsia, which would look intimidating on paler complexions but are super pretty on dark skin. Try: Sleek Blush By 3 in Pumpkin.

More: Makeup to toss after 30

More on beauty

Marilyn Monroe is new global ambassador for Max Factor
11 Beauty secrets you can learn from RuPaul's Drag Race
French makeup artist transforms herself into Kanye West

Slow Cooker Sunday: Chicken and sausage cassoulet

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Fill up with a bowl of chicken and sausage cassoulet

Cassoulet is a French dish that typically includes beans and meats like duck and pork. I've made this meal a bit more approachable by using chicken and sausage, and I added a favorite veggie — zucchini — for even more heartiness.

This recipe for Slow cooker Sunday chicken and sausage cassoulet is filled with flavor

I used a mild sausage for this dish, but you could use a spicy version too. I also included zucchini in the mix, but mushrooms or parsnips might be a good addition too. Serve this with crusty bread and a nice glass of wine for a fabulous meal.

Slow cooker chicken and sausage cassoulet recipe

This is a hearty dish to serve and perfect on a cold night. Add your favorite seasonal vegetables to the mix. You can sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top before serving, if you like.

Serves 4-6

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 4-6 hours | Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup white onion, diced
  • 1 (6 ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1/4 pound mildly seasoned sausage link, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 large celery stalk, diced
  • 1 green zucchini, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can cannellini beans, undrained
  • 1/3 cup vegetable broth
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, torn (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to season

Directions:

  1. To a skillet over medium heat, add the oil. When the oil is hot, add the onion, and cook for about 3 minutes or until it begins to soften.
  2. Add the chicken and sausage, and cook for 5 to 8 minutes or until browned. Add the tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of water and the black pepper to the skillet. Toss to combine, and cook for another minute or so.
  3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the carrot, celery, zucchini, garlic and beans over the mixture.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth, and top with the parsley and thyme.
  5. Cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours.
  6. Taste, and season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve in individual bowls, garnished with the fresh parsley.

For tons of great recipes, like our I <3 Comfort Food page on Facebook.

More slow cooker recipes

Carrot, parsnip and potato chowder with Parmesan crisps
Mu shu chicken
Potato, sauerkraut and spareribs


10 Undeniable reasons dogs are better than cats

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With just a quick spin around the internet, home of the viral cat video, it's clear to see that many people think I'm in the wrong. Sadly, I'm set in my ways. I am a dog lover for life. No matter how you may try to convince me that cats are the most adorable of creatures, I can honestly say that I am happy my husband just happens to be allergic to felines.

It may be juvenile to pit one against the other, but I'm ready to put my dog in the race. Dog lovers, I know you feel me. Here are 10 indisputable reasons why dogs make better pets.

1. Brains

Smart dog

Image: giphy.com

Right out of the gate, this is one topic likely to make "cat people" defensive. But when New Scientist magazine compared dogs' and cats' intelligence in 11 different categories, dogs prevailed.

2. Companionship

Cuddles

Image: giphy.com

There are plenty of cat lovers who will argue this point, but the general consensus is: Cats are independent, and dogs will stick to you like glue. The real question is, however, which pet better suits your personality? As an extrovert, I am a diehard #teamdog.

3. Exercise

Fetch

Image: giphy.com

I have yet to see a bounding (domestic) kitty dragging someone up a hiking trail. Dogs love to run and romp in the great outdoors — perfect for those non-couch potatoes looking to stay in shape. Michigan State University research confirms that dog owners exercise 30 minutes more per week than those who don't own a dog.

4. Happiness

Happy dog

Image: giphy.com

Cats are good for sitting sulkily on your lap as you ugly-cry and watch The Notebook after a breakup, no doubt about it, but dogs win again — researchers say that dog owners laugh more often than cat owners.

5. Loyalty

Loyal dog

Image: giphy.com

As the saying goes and according to Chez DaMutt in The Complete Dog Treat, "Dogs will wake you if the house is on fire. Cats will quietly sneak out the back door."

6. Maintenance

Dog food

Image: giphy.com

This is a hard point to argue since it often depends on preference. I personally find dogs low maintenance and less demanding than their feline counterparts, especially when you factor in cleaning the litter box. Cat lovers disagree, saying that cats are far less demanding than dogs since they can be left alone for hours to do their own thing.

7. Popularity

Dog hug

Image: giphy.com

American Pet Products Association statistics indicate that 37 to 47 percent of households own a dog versus 30 to 37 percent of households that own a cat. I rest my case.

8. Protection

Guard dog

Image: giphy.com

A number of dog owners value their pups simply for their ability to serve and protect. Though I am a mama to two puny Chihuahuas, I still appreciate when their barking alerts me of things that go bump in the night.

9. Selection

Big dog

Image: Reddit

Small dogs, medium dogs, big dogs — take your pick. Unless you plan on taming a wildcat, most felines only come in the traditional house cat variety.

10. Selflessness

Dog and lamb

Image: giphy.com

One LifeHacker commenter points out the greatest benefit of the canine breed: nobility. Police dogs, seeing eye dogs and dogs that can smell the early stages of cancer put even the most adorable kitty to shame.

More in dogs

Here's the real cost of owning a dog for the first year
100 Thoughts your dog has every day
Fake dog prank tricks mom every time and it's so good (VIDEO) 

How to make your own fortune cookies for Chinese New Year

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Have fun and celebrate with fortune cookies

These cookies are super fun to serve, but there's one thing you should know: Making them is not for the leisurely baker. You have to work fast to put these together, but the effort is worth it.

Grab a friend or two to personalize the fortunes, then work together to make the cookie prep easier. These cookies might not be quite as crunchy as the sort you find at a Chinese restaurant, but they're adorable, and they taste great too!

The first step to making fortune cookies is to form the batter into rounds.

The first step to making fortune cookies

After baking for 4 to 6 minutes, remove the cookies from the oven, and flip them. Get ready to work quickly.

Step two in making fortune cookies

Place your personalized fortune in the center of the cookie, with a bit sticking over one edge. Quickly fold the cookie in half like a taco...

Add your fortune to the fortune cookies

... then pinch the two ends of the cookie together.

Ready to shape the fortune cookies

Place the cookies in a mini muffin tin to help keep their shape as they cool.

Fortune cookies almost ready to serve

How to make homemade fortune cookies

These cookies are nothing but fun. Grab a friend to make the most of baking time, and celebrate later with these festive treats.

Yields 24

Prep time: 5 minutes | Bake time: 4-6 minutes | Total time: 37-53 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 egg whites
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted and cool
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • Zest of 1/2 an orange
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • Parchment paper
  • Mini muffin tin
  • 24 fortunes printed on paper

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper, and set them aside.
  2. Use a mixer to beat the egg whites and sugar until combined and frothy.
  3. Add the butter, honey, almond extract and orange zest, and mix until combined.
  4. Add the flour to the mixture, and blend until incorporated.
  5. Use a round cookie cutter about 3 inches in diameter to serve as your template. You'll add batter the size of the cookie cutter (about 1/2 teaspoon) onto the sheet (3 at a time). Use an offset knife or the back of a spoon to evenly and thinly spread the mixture into the circle.
  6. Bake 1 side only for 4 to 6 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the centers begin to turn color.
  7. Remove from the oven and, working quickly, use a spatula to flip over the rounds. Add a fortune to the center of the circle, and then fold it in half (like a taco). Quickly fold the two ends together, and place the cookie in a mini muffin tin to help it keep its form.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool completely before removing them from the tin.
  9. Continue, working with 3 cookies at a time, until the batter is gone.

Don't forget to print your fortunes before you make your cookies!

printable fortunes

More Chinese New Year recipes

3 Easy Chinese New Year appetizers
Chinese New Year sticky rice cake
Long life noodles

21 Mardi Gras-inspired recipes straight from NOLA

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Like any other carnival or celebration, Mardi Gras has specific recipes that are made around that time and only then. Some are inspired by the colors of the carnival, others are inspired by the cravings for cocktails at 11 a.m.

1. King's Cup cocktail recipe

king's cup

Image: Baked Bree

King's Cup cocktail is a blend of pineapple, coconut and lime with a splash of vodka — in this case, vanilla vodka — for a refreshing cocktail.

2. Ramos gin fizz recipe

gin fizz

Ramos gin fizz, a boozy cocktail that's bound to entice your taste buds. The secret? Orange-flower water.

3. Hurricane cocktail recipe

hurricane

Image: The View from Great Island

A twist on the classic Hurricane cocktail, this one is made with passion fruit, which we adore.

4. Cajun bloody mary recipe

bloody mary

Cajun bloody mary is a total favorite. Spicing up your classic bloody mary with Cajun spice definitely makes sense to us.

5. Honey Sazerac recipe

honey sazerac

Image: My Man's Belly

We're loving the addition of honey to this honey Sazerac. The balance of flavors is pristine.

6. New Orleans brandy milk punch recipe

milk punch

Image: Always Order Dessert

New Orleans brandy milk punch — the best bedtime cocktail we've ever tasted.

7. Sazerac cocktail recipe

sazerac

Sazerac cocktail, a traditional cocktail that can't be missed when visiting New Orleans.

8. Crawfish mac and cheese recipe

crawfish mac and cheese

This decadent crawfish mac and cheese is the way to get a taste of the Big Easy at home.

9. Shrimp and grits recipe

shrimp grits

Image: Kevin & Amanda

Nothing is more comforting than a bowl of creamy shrimp and grits.

10. Po'boy soup recipe

po boy soup

Turn a classic NOLA sandwich into this luscious po'boy soup.

11. Jambalaya recipe

jambalaya

Image: Gimme Some Oven

Make a big batch of this gorgeous jambalaya, and invite your friends to celebrate Mardi Gras at home.

12. Mini muffulettas recipe

muffulettas

Mini muffulettas are a fantastic party appetizer. Have a bite of NOLA!

13. Beer-battered catfish po'boys recipe

po boy

Image: Miss in the Kitchen

Take a bite out of one of these beer-battered catfish po'boys, and you'll be instantly transported to a corner shop in NOLA.

14. Lobster étouffé recipe

lobster étouffée

Image: Foodie Crush

This lobster étouffé is a one-pot meal that's done in under an hour, and it'll impress your family and friends.

15. Spicy chorizo jambalaya with sweet potato rice recipe

chorizo jambalaya

We're loving this gorgeously bright and spicy chorizo jambalaya with sweet potato rice.

16. Chicken and andouille sausage gumbo recipe

gumbo

Image: Table for Two

The secret to this luscious chicken and andouille sausage gumbo is taking the time to make dark roux. Find out more in this recipe.

17. Vegan jambalaya recipe

vegan jambalaya

Just because you are vegan doesn't mean you have to miss out on Mardi Gras food. This vegan jambalaya is savory and delicious.

18. Biscuit beignets with praline sauce recipe

beignets

Image: Kevin & Amanda

OK, we are totally drooling over these biscuit beignets with praline sauce.

19. Pecan pralines recipe

pralines

Image: Stephie Cooks

New Orleans is all about sweet treats as well, and you need to taste these pecan pralines if you want to be transported to this colorful city.

20. Mardi Gras king cake recipe

king cake

Image: Spiced Blog

Mardi Gras king cake — the perfect way to sweeten any Mardi Gras party.

21. King cake-inspired boozy milkshake recipe

milkshake

Slurp up this king cake-inspired boozy milkshake as the perfect dessert treat.

More New Orleans recipes

Po'boy soup
Blackened shrimp tacos
Fat Tuesday shrimp and sausage jambalaya

15 Things only people who hate chocolate will understand

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From the way most dessert menus, grocery stores and candy shops are arranged, you'd think chocolate is the most universally loved substance in the world. Of course, that's not necessarily true. There are some people who don't love a nice, dark, chocolaty anything, and these brave souls have a whole slew of problems to deal with that most just don't.

1. Your significant other has no idea what to get you when he/she messes up

Anger!

Image: Giphy

Many a person in a relationship has learned to navigate the rocky waters of relationship struggles with a big box of chocolate, a tub of mint chocolate chip or a big cup of hot cocoa. Chocolate haters in a relationship are likely to find themselves upset at their partner for whatever started the fight and upset because their partner forgot they didn't like chocolate.

On the other hand, the partner is probably upset because they just spent a ton of money on sweets and now is in even deeper hot water. This leads to a downward relationship spiral that's more trouble than it's worth.

2. Russell Stover doesn't have a box for you

Bad box of chocolates

Image: Giphy

It's pretty easy to pick up a box of truffles, chocolate-covered cherries or other candies for not much money. The problem? All these designer bites have chocolate. There's literally not a candy box for your tastes, unless you count a theater box of Mike and Ike…

3. In general, Valentine's Day is reduced to those weird candy hearts

Candy hearts

Image: Giphy

Go to the store on Valentine's Day, and you're greeted with lots and lots of chocolate candy. Want anything else? Maybe you can find red hots. If not, you're buying yourself a big bag of candy hearts and sending yourself nonsensical love messages…

4. There are only so many desserts that don't feature chocolate...

Chocolate on fruit

Image: Giphy

If you don't like chocolate, the dessert menu at a fancy restaurant is your worst enemy. If you're lucky, you might have one choice without chocolate.

5. … which is a problem when someone makes you a special dessert

Chocolate surprise

Image: Giphy

It's even worse if it's your birthday or a special occasion, because some well-meaning person might just deliver you a special treat. Sure as the sun comes up in the morning, that special dessert will be nice and chocolaty, because who doesn't love the brown stuff? You know, other than you?

6. It's nearly impossible to find a good Ben and Jerry's flavor

Ben and Jerry's

Image: Giphy

Chubby Hubby, Phish Food, Half Baked, Karamel Sutra, Americone Dream, etc., are all brilliant flavors of ice cream… unless you hate chocolate. When you dislike it, you're really limited to only a handful of flavors, or else you're going without.

7. Ditto Starbucks

Starbucks

Image: Giphy

Starbucks sells a lot of mochas and lattes, most of which have some form of chocolate. So, enjoy your caramel macchiato or your plain Jane cup of joe.

8. The only Halloween candy you will eat is terrible

Candy corn

Image: Giphy

Bit-O-Honey. That's your fate around Halloween, or maybe, if you're lucky, some Smarties or something. Why is this true? Because all those bags of fun-sized treats are based on chocolate, and for you, there's just nothing fun sized about a candy bar.

9. The M&M'S guys won't believe you anyway

Yellow M&M

Image: M&M'S

Were you to meet the two spokesmen for M&M'S, they're not going to believe you're one of the good guys who won't eat them. They'll be just as suspicious of you as of everyone else.

10. Everyone mixes chocolate with another flavor

Fruit and chocolate

Image: Giphy

A lot of thought and creativity go into chocolate and peanut butter, chocolate and mint, chocolate and cherry, chocolate and curry, chocolate and bacon and so on. In other words, the great culinary minds are pouring all their energies into something you won't eat.

11. Magic Shell caramel just isn't that great

Chocolate and ice cream

Image: Giphy

Magic Shell is chocolate syrup that hardens when poured onto ice cream. The caramel version struggles to set and just doesn't taste that great. Why, you may ask? Because the Magic Shell makers know most people buy the chocolate variety, so that's where they sink their R & D dollars.

12. Dessert fondue is right out

Chocolate fountain

Image: Giphy

Go ahead and find a chocolate-less dessert fondue. It's OK, we'll wait.

13. When everyone else gets hot chocolate, you get hot… water?

Hot milk

Image: Giphy

Hot caramel just doesn't have the same ring, and neither hot tea nor coffee can fill that same niche for something sweet and warming on a cold winter's day.

14. Chocolate even invades Mexican food. Mole… Seriously?

Nyan taco cat

Image: Giphy

Everyone's so high and excited about mole, a Mexican sauce made from chocolate. Yes, even tacos aren't a safe refuge for chocolate haters.

15. You have to explain, yes, you actually don't like chocolate

Annoyed

Image: Giphy

Lastly, it just gets tedious telling everyone you really hate chocolate and no, you don't want to try just one bite. It's enough to make you want to stay home and avoid the chocophiles out there.

More for chocolate haters

3-Fruit dessert
Coconut fruit dessert

How to make gorgeous fruit sushi for dessert

8 Things your skin can tell you about your health

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Here are eight skin issues that may be a sign of a more serious health condition:

1. Freckles

A freckle can sometimes be skin cancer in disguise, so it's important to check each one against the five danger signs, suggests Raj: asymmetrical shape, border irregularity, different colors, diameter greater than a pencil eraser and a change in shape, size or color.

2. Dry skin

According to Dr. Joshua Zeichner, M.D., dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center, if you have dry skin you may have low thyroid function — which may also be associated with thinning hair and eyebrows.

3. Discoloration

"Thick, velvety and brownish gray patches on the skin, predominantly present in the areas around the neck, armpit or groin, may be a sign of diabetes," says Raj.

4. Eye bags and puffiness

According to Raj, it's not just lack of sleep that can cause baggy, puffy eyes: High-sodium foods and diets rich in salt can promote water retention throughout the body, including the under-eye area. Chronic allergies may also take out their frustrations on your eyes by dilating blood vessels and causing them to leak, which creates puffiness and a dark purple-blue color.

5. Breakouts on your jawline and chin

"This may be a sign of a hormonal imbalance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome," says Zeichner, and may be accompanied by excessive hair growth on your sideburns, chin or chest.

6. Redness, rashes, blotchiness

"Broken capillaries and redness may be caused by a variety of factors, like sun exposure, genetics, alcohol consumption or injury," says Raj. "Flashing and persistent redness may also be an early symptom of rosacea."

And we can't not mention digestive problems that may show up on your skin in the form of super itchy clusters of red bumps and blisters (ick), which commonly appear on the knees, elbows and buttocks, and according to Raj, are a clear sign of celiac disease.

7. Sallow and yellow skin

If there's a yellowish tint to your skin and it's especially noticeable on your palms and soles, this may be a sign of hypothyroidism. "When there's a thyroid concern, the gland doesn't metabolize vitamins as quickly, which results in the accumulation of beta-carotene levels in the blood," says Raj.

8. Subcutaneous lumps

"Lumps that occur under the skin could be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis," says Raj, as well as thinning skin or translucency of the skin on the back of your hands.

More skincare tips

6 Lifestyle changes to promote super-healthy skin
How to eat better so you look better
How to get the vitamins you need without worrying about your diet

Anti-vaxxers are total narcissists — here's why

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Bold statement? Yes. But let's look at a couple of facts, shall we?

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is published by the American Psychiatric Association, people with narcissistic personality disorder have the following shared traits, which dovetail almost seamlessly with the arrogance and presumption of the anti-vaccination movement.

1. Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance — so do anti-vaxxers

Believing that you, as a parent armed with Google and a couple of books, know more about protecting your child's health than the sum of decades of pediatric medicine is pretty stunning. Anti-vaxxers are not only willing to bet their own child's health on their own perceived superior knowledge and intellect, but they're willing to bet the health and welfare of everyone else's child on it too. If that's not an inflated sense of self-importance, then what is?

Anti-vaxxers are also betting your tax dollars on their knowing more than everyone else.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the U.S. saves about $27 per $1 spent on DTaP vaccines and $13 per $1 spent on MMR vaccinations — thanks to reduced medical costs to treat sick kids and the loss in overall productivity that a sicker society creates. So parents who choose to not vaccinate their kids are putting a huge expense on top of an already strapped health care system.

2. Narcissists and anti-vaxxers want to be recognized as "superior"

Anti-vaxxers expect people to simply accept that their hunch trumps the medical advice of doctors and public health officials all over the world. Science? Science is for other dummies, not anti-vaxxers.

From whooping cough to measles, we're all paying the price for a few parents who think they know better than science. The Disneyland measles outbreak has already infected more than 100 people and could continue to spread. Over the past year, California has seen the worst whooping cough (pertussis) outbreak in 70 years. And yet, this delusional group continues to insist they actually know better than health care professionals.

Here's a comment from user "applejuice" on Mothering's "I'm not vaccinating" forum:

"The fact that no measles cases were reported in 2000 may be the result of clueless young pediatricians not knowing what they are looking at," applejuice writes.

Yes, you have cracked the case, applejuice. Doctors just don't know how to diagnose measles. You are clearly much smarter than they are.

3. Narcissists and anti-vaxxers both have a sense of entitlement

Believing that your choice to go against medical advice is more important than the health and welfare of everyone else is nothing more than a childish sense of entitlement, plain and simple. Take a visit to any of the anti-vaccination forums out there, and you'll be waist-high in equal parts government conspiracy theories and pretzel logic designed to inflate the intellect of the anti-vaxxers.

Or how about this from commenter "mamakah," responding to the Disneyland measles outbreak:

"We have a Disneyland trip planned in just under two months. DS is unvaccinated, and although I'm not afraid of measles, I acknowledge that for some it could be problematic and don't necessarily want him to be a/the 'typhoid mary' and contract and spread the disease via airports, airplane rides, etc."

You acknowledge that your kid could make innocent people very sick? Well, thanks so much for that. How about getting your kid vaccinated before taking him on a plane?

4. Narcissists and anti-vaxxers have an inability (or unwillingness) to recognize the needs of others

Some kids simply can't handle vaccinations. Kids fighting cancer and other life-threatening illnesses can't protect themselves, so when anti-vaxxer parents choose, through some delusion, to not vaccinate their own kids, they are putting these sick children's lives at direct risk. They know this and choose to endanger other people's kids anyway. Empathy, much?

What parents who refuse to vaccinate are ignoring is something those pesky scientists call "herd immunity," or the idea that when enough of a population is vaccinated, it protects everyone. Sick kids and even adults who really can't handle vaccines rely on herd immunity for survival. Once a certain percentage of the population is walking around without immunizations, we're all at risk. Anti-vaxxers know full well that their choices impact others, and they do it anyway.

5. Narcissists and anti-vaxxers expect special favors and unquestioning compliance with their expectations

To walk into a school with a kid that isn't vaccinated and expect that school to take the kid no questions asked is pretty brazen. Conservative politicians have taken up the anti-vaxxer cause under the banner of "personal liberty." As if endangering the rest of society with deadly, treatable diseases is somehow an unalienable right protected by the Constitution.

Consider this: Not only are parents who choose to not vaccinate spending the rest of our money and endangering the rest of our children, but they're putting future generations at risk.

Before the rubella vaccine came out in 1969, an outbreak killed 11,000 babies and caused birth defects in 20,000 between 1963 and 1965 in the U.S. alone. Mothers who receive the rubella vaccine protect their unborn children from defects, including heart defects, vision loss, hearing loss and other debilitating disabilities. So it's future generations — our kids' kids — that will continue to be impacted by reckless anti-vaxxer behavior.

6. Narcissists and anti-vaxxers behave in an arrogant or haughty manner

What is more arrogant than inflicting your own off-brand of medicine on the rest of your community? What is haughtier than expecting everyone to just deal with the fact that your unwillingness to vaccinate your child could spread deadly disease to everyone?

Check out this comment from anti-vaxxer Anne Jividen, who is convinced she's the only one who really knows the truth.

"Sorry, I just watched the CNN piece on the Disneyland measles outbreak... and I'm feeling snarky and extremely frustrated over the lack of real information concerning this latest outbreak. Just more and more bashing of the unvaccinated. I've also noticed how MSM has stopped reporting how many vaccinated people have also contracted the infection as the outbreak peaks."

Yes, anti-vaxxers are narcissists with no compunction about endangering the rest of society, because they believe it's the right thing to do. So let's start treating these people like they're afflicted with the personality disorders they are and stop letting them hijack the health and well-being of our communities.

More on vaccinations and anti-vaxxers

One graph will convince you why you need to vaccinate your kids
Dear anti-vaxxers: Stop using autism as a bogeyman
Parents share why they don't vaccinate

10 Things every couple knows about traveling together

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Any couple who has traveled together will agree that there are 10 scenarios likely to play out on your first romantic trip:

1. Your personalities will clash

Fight

Image: giphy.com

But you are in love! How can this be? He's a laid-back extrovert who can't make a plan to save his life. You're an organized, often anal, introvert who wants to arrive at the airport at least two hours early. Have fun with that.

2. You'll take a lot of selfies

SNL

Image: giphy.com

You'll promise yourself that you won't, but you will. Since this is your first romantic getaway as a couple, you get a pass — as long as you keep the duck face in check.

3. You'll discover his quirks

Kardashian

Image: giphy.com

"So, he hums that same annoying song every morning while he brushes his teeth. I've never noticed that before."

4. Your first fight will happen when you get lost

Jersey shore

Image: giphy.com

Every couple has to get that first fight out of the way. If you haven't fought yet, just get lost and try to navigate your way back to the hotel together. The more lost you are, the more epic the fight will be.

5. One of you will get washed away on a kayak

Kayak

Image: giphy.com

I don't know why this happens on every romantic vacation, but it has happened to me and almost every other couple I know. Wear a life vest.

6. You'll get a little drunk and say weird things

Drunk

Image: giphy.com

If you're in a new love relationship, things could get very, very weird after a few too many Mai Tais on the beach. Embrace the moment and ride the wave of drunken conversation — he'll probably think it's cute in the morning.

7. You'll need some alone time

Katy Perry

Image: giphy.com

Don't pretend that you won't. Even hanging out with the love of your life 24/7, for days on end, is enough to drive a sane person crazy.

8. You'll make new friends

ELF

Image: giphy.com

Two people can only talk about so much. The odds are that you'll sidle up next to another couple at a resort or local bar and strike up a conversation. Over the next few days, you'll be inseparable. Before you leave, you will all promise to be best friends for life.

9. You'll have amazing hotel sex

Sex and the city

Image: giphy.com

My personal theory is that hotel rooms are hosed down with some kind of aphrodisiac after each use. Either way, the allure of a big hotel bed plus the fact that no one cares how loud you scream equals some naughty boning all night long.

10. Your greatest bonding moment will happen when one of you gets sick

Rob Lowe

Image: giphy.com

Did you know that the Curse of Montezuma, a.k.a. Montezuma's Revenge, a.k.a. eating a bad street taco in Mexico, can bring a couple together? Holding back his hair as he blows chunks is what love songs are written about.

More on love

Why you should never stop dating the one you love
Cheating couple caught on camera in most embarrassing way
2 Meet-cute stories that will make you rethink first impressions


Jessica Simpson has Fifty Shades-inspired V-Day with hubby (PHOTOS)

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Her weight, her looks, her relationships, her umm… ill-thought-out comments ("Is this chicken or fish…?"), her weight. Did we mention people obsess about her weight? Yeah, they do. Shocker.

So it is no surprise that the now-svelte mom and mogul wants to post photos of herself looking all kinds of sexy with her too-hot beau as they celebrate their first Valentine's Day as husband and wife, but it begs the question, "Doesn't anyone want any part of their lives to be private anymore?"

Simpson took to her Instagram account yesterday to post some very Fifty Shades of Grey-esque photos of her herself and her husband, Eric Johnson, and she included the hashtag, "#FIFTYSHADESOFJOHNSON."

More: Jessica Simpson, Eric Johnson are arguing over one important parenting decision

Now, I don't know if she is telling us that her husband is all kinds of messed up like Christian Grey is in the famed book or if she is just trying to be provocative or what. But one thing is for sure: She looks damn good.

Here is my problem with the photos, though.

These seem like really private and intimate moments she is having with her husband. They look perfectly lit and staged, so it appears they are a professional shoot, which isn't a problem either. I think it's great for couples to get steamy with each other for the camera. But those photos should be for each other, not to share with the world.

Save something for yourselves, people! Stop giving everything in your life, even your most intimate moments, to the entire world.

More: Rosamund Pike may rock a terrifying yet genius Oscar dress (VIDEO)

So, while I totally think she (and her husband) look fabulous, do we really need to have these posted to her Instagram? Can we go back to having private lives? Or has the internet taken all privacy from us? Are we too far gone into the get-famous-by-posting-sex-tapes world to come back?
Jessica Simpson Insta pics

Jessica Simpson Insta pics

Jessica Simpson Insta Pics 2

Jessica Simpson Insta Pics 2

Jessica Simpson Insta Pics 3

Jessica Simpson Insta Pics 3

More: Jessica Simpson's first wedding photo revealed

What do you think? Should she have kept these photos for herself? Or is her brand too ingrained and reliant on her looks that she needs to put them on display like this? (And, of course, the one question you are all wondering: Where on earth does he have his hand!?)

Sound off in the comments.

Cheddar, broccoli and bacon pull-apart rolls will please the whole family

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Pick one of these cheesy cheddar, broccoli, and bacon pull apart rolls

I combined a homemade cheese sauce with the convenience of prepackaged biscuits to turn this recipe into something special for mealtime (or snack time). If you'd like to make your own dough, go for it, but if you're a little short on time, pick this version.

These cheesy cheddar, broccoli, and bacon pull apart rolls are filled with flavor

These rolls are fun to serve as an appetizer, snack or simply as a side to a big, green salad or bowl of soup. I ended up with seven rolls in my baking dish for a tight fit and added the last roll to a small pan by itself.

cheesy pull-apart rolls

You can easily double up this recipe to serve more people. I think you'll love the flavors all melted together into these flaky rolls.

Chessy cheddar, broccoli and bacon pull-apart rolls recipe

These rolls might become a favorite at your house. The flavor combo of cheddar, broccoli and bacon couldn't be more perfect, and what's not to love about an easy-to-make appetizer or roll?

Yields 8

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

Ingredients:

  • 1 (8 count) container prepared biscuit rolls
  • 1-1/2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon flour, plus extra to dust the work surface
  • 1/4 cup milk, more as needed
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/8 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 tablespoon melted butter
  • Nonstick cooking spray

Directions:

  1. Add the broccoli florets to a microwave-safe bowl, and heat on high for 2 minutes. Remove, and allow to cool to the touch. Chop into small pieces. Set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly spray an 8-inch round baking dish with the nonstick cooking spray, and set it aside.
  3. Dust a flat work surface with the flour. Open the biscuits, and roll each flat to 2-1/2 to 3 inches in diameter. Set aside.
  4. To a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the butter. When the butter is melted and hot, add the flour, and whisk constantly until combined and it begins to thicken, about a minute or so.
  5. Add the milk to the mixture, whisking until combined. The mixture will be slightly thick. Add the black pepper, and mix.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, and add the cheese. Before stirring, add the lemon juice over the cheese. Stir the cheese into the mixture until melted.
  7. If you'd like a thinner sauce, add a bit more milk (1 tablespoon), and whisk to combine.
  8. Fold the broccoli into the mixture as well as almost all the bacon crumbles, reserving a few pieces for the tops of the rolls.
  9. Add 1 tablespoon of the mixture to the center of each biscuit round. Fold the edges into the center, and crimp with your fingers. Do this with each round, and place them in the baking dish so they are close but not touching.
  10. Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter, and bake for 15 minutes. When there are 2 minutes left to bake, remove, and sprinkle the remaining bacon crumbles over the tops of the rolls. Place them back into the oven until done.
  11. Remove, and allow the rolls to cool slightly. Serve immediately.

For tons of great recipes, like our I <3 Comfort Food page on Facebook.

More appetizer recipes

Chickpea, carrot and walnut bundles with yogurt-mint dip
Grilled Peppadew peppers with halloumi skewers with olive tapenade
Grilled eggplant roll-ups with roasted red pepper tapenade

When to seek a 504 plan for your child

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Children with disabilities in the United States have the right to a free appropriate public education, which is guaranteed under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This can cover children who have any number of conditions or issues. How do you know when your child needs one?

When my daughter was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), an autoimmune disease that causes pain, swelling, severe fatigue and mobility issues, I realized that the problems she was having and the numerous out-of-town appointments we had to attend were interfering with her days at school. Her teachers were already accommodating for her, but I wanted to get in writing exactly what they were doing so we could have the groundwork set for the next year. She'll be moving up to middle school, and I wanted the plan to be already in place.

Children with special needs can and should be accommodated in their school setting to ensure that they're getting the same educational opportunities as their peers. "Any student with a disability that substantially limits them in a major life activity is entitled to protections under Section 504," explains Richard J. Murphy, a Phoenix-based lawyer who specializes in providing assistance to children with special needs. "If your child has a medical or other condition that requires that the school deal with the student in a different way, you may want to request a 504 plan."

There is no list of all included diagnoses that may qualify one for a 504 plan — according to the U.S. Department of Education, it's nearly impossible to create a comprehensive list. As long as one or more major life activities (learning, working, caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking and breathing) is impacted by the disability, a child should qualify. Again, this list is not exhaustive, and other life activities can be impacted enough to qualify a child for a 504 plan.

If you're not sure, ask. Every school has a 504 coordinator who can help you set up a meeting to determine if your child needs accommodations. You'll need documentation from your child's physician (we got a note from our daughter's rheumatologist outlining her diagnosis, symptoms, side effects of medications and suggested modifications), and don't hesitate to see if your child's caregivers can attend, such as a psychologist if he's seeing one. Also, do an internet search beforehand to find out what other parents have had written into their child's 504 plan — it can help to come in prepared to know what to ask for.

The 504 plan is there to help your child meet her educational goals. Accommodations may be as simple as allowing your son or daughter more time to take tests, or to have access to water and restrooms at all times. Or they may be more complex, such as lending assistive technology or devices. Don't hesitate to push for what you think your child needs — as parents, we are our children's best advocates.

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Louis Jourdan dead: 7 Things to know about the suave French star

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According to BBC News, Jourdan's official biographer Olivier Minne confirmed his death.

Jourdan enjoyed a successful acting career, which included roles in the 1958 film Gigi and 1983 Bond film Octopussy, but we have some other facts about the actor that you may not have known.

More: Rod Taylor, star of The Time Machine, is dead at 84

1. He sang Gigi's title tune

Gigi was one of the most successful films of the '50s and was nominated for nine Oscars. Aside from starring as playboy Gaston Lachaille in the film, Jourdan also sang the film's title tune, and it won the Oscar for Best Song.

2. He more often than not played the role of a gentleman

Jourdan was an incredibly handsome man, and for this reason he was often typecast in romantic roles, much to his dismay.

"My basic disagreement with producers was that I didn't want to be perpetually cooing in a lady's ear," Jourdan said in a 1960 interview with Coronet magazine. "There is not much aesthetic satisfaction in it."

More: Arrow actor and martial artist Darren Shahlavi dead at 42

3. He grew up in Cannes, France

Jourdan grew up in Cannes, France, and was the son of an hotelier. He was fortunate enough to later attend the prestigious Ecole Dramatique in Paris to study acting.

4. He took his mother's last name

According to the Daily Mail, Jourdan grew up as Louis Gendre. However, when he started acting, he decided to use his mother's last name, Jourdan.

5. His early career was interrupted by World War II

World War II interrupted Jourdan's career in France after the Nazis' occupation. He was ordered to make Nazi propaganda films but refused, escaping to the south of France where he joined the French resistance.

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6. He had only one child

Jourdan had only one child, a son, Louis Henry Jourdan, whom he shared with his late wife, Berthe Frederique Jourdan. Louis Henry sadly died of a drug overdose at age 30 in 1981.

7. He starred opposite some of the most beautiful leading ladies

Jourdan starred opposite many talented and beautiful leading ladies, among them was Grace Kelly, in The Swan. He also played opposite Joan Fontaine in Letter from an Unknown Woman and Decameron Nights, Brigitte Bardot in the 1956 film The Bride Is Much Too Beautiful and Jennifer Jones in the 1949 film Madame Bovary.

Jourdan was a talented actor and will be missed by many. Our thoughts go out to Jourdan's family and friends during this sad time.

14 Things only pit bull owners know

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1. You can't just have one

Pitbulls 14

Pitbulls 14

2. Pit bull owners feel this way — every single day

Pitbulls 13

Pitbulls 13

3. Pit bulls really can get along with other animals

Pitbulls 12

Pitbulls 12

4. Pit bulls love to be underfoot, even if it means you may fall on them

Pitbulls 10

Pitbulls 10

5. Pit bulls are awesome with kids, especially giving kid-snuggles

Pitbulls 9

Pitbulls 9

6. Pit bulls often find themselves all alone at the dog park because other dog park goers quickly leave

Pitbulls 8

Pitbulls 8

7. People will extremely love your pit bull or extremely hate your pit bull

Pitbulls 7

Pitbulls 7

8. Pit bulls make finding a place to live a difficult ordeal, and getting rid of your dog is out of the question

Pitbulls 6

Pitbulls 6

9. Pit bulls are exceedingly protective of their family pack and will lose their lives fighting for yours

Pitbulls 5

Pitbulls 5

10. Pit bulls are natural athletes and love to show it off

Pitbulls 4

Pitbulls 4

11. They are awesome friends

Pitbulls 3

Pitbulls 3

12. Pit bulls may look serious, but they have a goofy side that just won't quit

Pitbulls 2

Pitbulls 2

13. When looking up dog breed information, don't mistake your pit bull for the singer (although both are handsome)

Pitbulls 1

Pitbulls 1

14. Pit bulls aren't just pets, they are a way of life

Pitbulls 15

Pitbulls 15

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