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Best gifts for the all-natural gal

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Clean-livin' and earth-lovin' — the all-natural gal is determined to save the planet, one bike-commute at a time. Show her your support with these perfectly natural gifts.

Beauty booty

Just because your best bud is a tree hugger doesn't mean she wants to skip the razor and deodorant. Chances are she just wants to look her best while using the most earth-friendly products available. Help her out by picking up one of these beauty products.

beauty brushes

Better beauty brushes

EcoTools' brushes feature handles made from bamboo, ferrules made from recycled aluminum and bristles that are cruelty free. Plus, one percent of their annual sales go to the 1% for the Planet organization that's dedicated to leveraging resources for a healthier planet. We love their 6 Piece Day to Night set that includes five brushes and a beautiful bag for only $17.

Cleaner cosmetics

Cleaner cosmetics

All natural, vegan and gluten free, makeup from Gabriel Cosmetics is the dream gift for the all-natural gal. Whether she loves to perk up her pout or bring out her eyes, you can't go wrong with one of the company's holiday gift sets. Our favorite is Midnight Madness, featuring a lipstick, nail color and conditioning nail polish remover pads.

All-natural nail care

Nail products are known for being harsh and loaded with chemicals, but you can put a smile on your friend's face this year with the Londontown nail treatment set. This five-piece set is packed with vitamins, minerals and essential oils that are designed to nourish and strengthen the nails from the inside out. All products are vegan, gluten free and cruelty free.

natural nail care

A spa experience

Hiking, gardening and gettin' a little dirty may be key components of an all-natural gal's life, but that's all the more reason to help her relax when she's home.

massage oils

An at-home massage

Helping your best gal work out the kinks after a long day at work is sure to win you points, but the all-natural woman wants to know that her massage oils are all natural too. Sliquid Organics massage oils feature a blend of nut and seed oils combined with certified organic botanicals chosen for their soothing properties. Choose from Escape, Rejuvenation, Seduction or Tranquility.

massager

An at-home facial

Spa gift cards are an excellent idea, but some women don't feel comfortable carving out the time it takes to get a professional facial or massage. Bring the spa experience home by picking up the ReFa Pro Skin Rejuvenation Platinum Electronic Roller. The proprietary design of the roller mimics the motion of a masseuse, allowing the user to self-massage the face and body in the comfort of her home. Used daily, it even helps enhance the appearance of skin.

Prestiche

A bath-time escape

Make bath time a true pleasure with bath salts, soaps and creams from Prestiche. These all-natural body products are made from only the freshest, finest ingredients — like Dead Sea salt, coconut oil, aloe extract, beeswax, Hibiscus flower, Rosehip, shea butter and a variety of other extracts and essential oils. So, whenever your all-natural girl showers down, she'll be sure to feel rejuvenated and ready to face the world when she uses Prestiche.

Natural fitness

Between her yoga practice, weekend hikes and daily bike commute to work, the natural girl is usually naturally fit. Support her health-filled passions with these fun gift ideas.

riding jersey

Girl-power gear

Rosie the Riveter invokes feelings of mega girl power, so remind your favorite friend that she can do anything she puts her mind to when she's lacing up her shoes for a cycling trip. This fun jersey is sure to put a smile on her face.

nutcase

Safe riding accessories

Helmets are a requirement when it comes to cycling, but if your friend is still wearing an ugly old variety, help her upgrade to a fun, new style. Nutcase Helmets offers cycling, snow- and water-sport helmets adorned with designs like polka dots, stripes, animal prints and more! We love this subtle and cute paisley print on a white background for the work-commute woman.

Goal-tracking journal

If your friend is a true competitor, then she'll appreciate a journal designed to help support and enhance her fitness-related goals. We love this beautiful training journal from Believe I Am. Printed with vegetable-based inks on 100 percent recycled paper, it's sure to win major bonus points with the all-natural woman!

goal tracking journal

Earth-friendly fashion

Today's all-natural gals don't have to choose between being earth friendly or fashion forward. Here are just a couple beautiful fashion accessories that are sure to appeal to her senses.

ginko leaf necklace

Recycled jewelry

This fine silver pendant from Isabelle Grace Jewelry is both beautifully designed and thoughtfully made. Crafted from recycled silver and handmade when ordered, there's little waste produced by the company, giving you a lot to feel good about!

handbag

Vegan-friendly handbag

Chances are your all-natural lady ditched the leather purse a long time ago in favor of a cruelty-free option. While there are lots of faux-leather bags on the market, why not upgrade your gal's tote to a designer-like version? We love Olivia + Joy's Prosperity Satchel in latte.

More great gift ideas

Best gifts for the nail-art obsessed
Best gifts for the hair obsessed
Gifts that make bubble baths even better


Hip for the holidays: Cute kids' outfit ideas for holiday festivities

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Dressing up for the holidays is a lot of fun. This season, dress your kids in colorful outfits that are stylish, affordable and occasion-appropriate.

The holidays are almost here, and there are plenty of fun, festive activities taking place for your whole family. When you are out and about enjoying the seasonal festivities, dress your kids up in colorful and cute outfits.

For playing in the snow

Snow outfit

For ski trips or just playing in the snow, dress her up in cute snow clothes in fun colors. You'll adore this C9 by Champion kids snow bib in hot pink . Add a pair of hip-yet-cozy gloves like the Chero BG ski gloves in purple leopard , and finish off the look with Circo Navia winter boots .

For worship services

Kids clothes for worship services

For families who attend church or other worship services on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, you want a dressy outfit for your kids that is stylish and comfortable. For young boys, a red sweater vest over a button-down shirt and cords may fit the bill . A sweater dress over tights is the answer for your little princess .

For opening gifts

Pajamas for opening gifts

We all love the photos of kids opening gifts on Christmas morning. Make sure your little ones are picture-ready with an adorable pair of festive pajamas. You can give the PJs to your kids as a Christmas Eve gift. Your toddler or preschooler will look great in these Just One You by Carter's Santa pajamas . If you are looking for footie PJs, check out the JOY ITB holiday pajamas .

For Christmas dinner

Christmas dinner outfit

When it comes to Christmas dinner, you want your kids to look cute, but you also know there might be small spills. You don't want to have to try to clean cranberry sauce or pumpkin pie out of velvet, silk or other delicate fabrics. So instead, look for washable knits. For boys, the Cherokee striped sweater will look great with everything — slacks, jeans, khakis or cords . For girls, a Circo holiday tee with a tutu skirt and tights will look oh so cute .

When dressing your kids for holiday activities, don't just consider how cute the clothes are — also take into account comfort. It's important that your kids are warm and cozy if they are going to be outdoors, and that they are comfortable whether they are indoors or out. Though it may be tempting to spend a bundle on expensive suits and fancy dresses for the holidays, remember the fact that your child may not wear the outfit ever again — by next year they will have most likely outgrown it.

More clothes for kids

Fashionable holiday gift ideas for tweens
Special clothing gifts for special holiday outings
Fashion stocking stuffers for boys

Gifts that make bubble baths even better

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At the end of the day, there is nothing more relaxing than soaking in a hot bubble bath. No work, no husband and no children. Here's how to take the experience from ordinary to extraordinary with a few thoughtful purchases.

Shatter-proof wine glasses

Shatter-proof wine glasses

It's tempting to sip on a glass of wine while soaking in the tub, but if you're anything like me, something about a fragile piece of stemware perched precariously between the loofah and shampoo is cringe-inducing. I sometimes imagine the red wine spilling into the tub and the glass shattering on its way in. This thought is not relaxing. Thankfully, GoVino is one step ahead of this apocalyptic thinking and has designed a variety of shatter-proof, stemless wine glasses. Not only are they beautiful, you can rest assured knowing that if you knock the glass into the tub, you won't end up in the ER.

Bose SoundDock

Bose SoundDock

A soak in the tub without music playing can feel a little awkward. All I hear is water splashing and the strange squeaking noise my poor-quality bathtub makes when I change positions. Consider purchasing, or asking for, a Bose SoundDock to solve your bathtub acoustic problems. The system allows you to plug in your iPod with surround-sound quality. And retailing at under $200, it's reasonably priced for creating a spa retreat.  

Aveda Gift Set

Aveda gift set

By now, we all know that retailers from high-end spas to dollar stores offer lotions and potions that claim to reduce stress. Aveda Salons actually manages to do so by using flower and plant essences to harness the power of aromatherapy. This gift set, including a body lotion, soaking salt and aromatherapy concentrate will set the tone for a relaxing soak in the tub — with the added bonus of making your skin feel great.

Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner

Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner

Nothing about this gift idea is romantic, and I only suggest that it be given in conjunction with an additional bath-themed gift. However, it is practical. Nothing ruins bath time more than seeing a water ring around the tub or mildew all over the shower doors. The only thing that could make the scenario worse is actually having to clean the tub before starting the bath. Cleaning is the worst.

Bath pillow

Remember that time you bought an inflatable bath pillow, only to take it home to discover that it was totally gross and slimy within a week of purchase? Oh, that was me? Those days are gone now, with this Pretika Soft Spa Massaging Memory Foam Bath Pillow found at Sears. It wicks away moisture and is memory-foamy and truly delightful. It also dries quickly, which is a major plus.

Bath pillow

More great gift ideas

Best gifts for the nail-art obsessed
Best gifts for the hair obsessed
Best gifts for the all-natural gal

Top innovations for keeping toys charged

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Your son's new remote control helicopter is the most "awesome toy ever" -- until he runs outside to play with it and the battery is dead. Keep the fun going strong with the right batteries! Find out how innovations in these powerful cylinders can keep the fun going... and going... and going.
helicopeter
Battery options

charged up
for fun

Your son's new remote control helicopter is the most "awesome toy ever" -- until he runs outside to play with it and the battery is dead. Keep the fun going strong with the right batteries! Find out how innovations in these powerful cylinders can keep the fun going... and going... and going.

Rechargeable batteries versus non-rechargeable batteries

When it comes to batteries, there are two main types to choose from. So what are the differences between the two? As the name suggests, a rechargeable battery can be recharged and used again and again. When you plug a rechargeable battery into its charging unit, the negative to positive electron flow is reversed, restoring the cell's charge. Non-rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, are single use.

Advantages of rechargeable batteries

  • Cost savings: Non-rechargeable batteries can be used a single time, and then their useful life is over. Rechargeable batteries, on the other hand, can be recharged hundreds of times. While non-rechargeable batteries cost less, rechargeable batteries are obviously more cost-effective in the long run due to the fact that they can be reused over and over.
  • Reduced impact on the environment: Using fewer batteries means less waste.

Advantages of non-rechargeable batteries

  • Convenience: With non-rechargeable batteries, you don't have to worry about plugging them into the recharging station. Just grab them off the shelf and they're ready to go.
  • Shelf life: Shelf life is how long batteries will hold their energy capacity while in storage. Non-rechargeable batteries have the advantage here. For example, Energizer MAX rechargeable batteries now hold their power for 10 years while in storage thanks to new Power Seal Technology. When you know you'll be needing batteries for toys, flashlights and smoke detectors, it's always a good idea to keep a supply on hand. With a shelf life of 10 years, you can grab batteries off the shelf with no worries.

Quick tip

If you're using rechargeable batteries, always keep a set in the rechargeable battery charger. That way, when your helicopter becomes grounded or your DS loses power, you're ready to make the switch and keep the fun going strong.

More holiday gift ideas

Top 10 stocking stuffers under $10
Family gifts: Top toys everyone will love
Don't forget the batteries: Tips for better holiday gift giving

Guide to green gift giving

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Eco-friendly gift giving isn't just about upcycling and making handmade Christmas gifts, there are a number of other ways you can make your holiday gift giving more green. From shopping at thrift stores to giving experience gifts to volunteering in someone's name, it's easy to go green with gift giving.
Recycled wrapping paper

Eco-friendly gift giving isn't just about upcycling and making handmade Christmas gifts, there are a number of other ways you can make your holiday gift giving more green.

How to have a
greener Christmas

From shopping at thrift stores to giving experience gifts to volunteering in someone's name, it's easy to go green with gift giving.

Shop eco-smart

When shopping for Christmas gifts, expand your horizons past the mall. Thrift stores, consignment shops and other resale organizations can be a fantastic way to find unique, used gifts. You'd be surprised at the treasures you can find, often at a fraction of the cost of new goods.

If you are purchasing electronics this holiday season, like many people are, take into account the long-term effects of these gifts on the environment. Look for energy-efficient electronics, appliances and other items.

Wrap it right

When wrapping your Christmas gifts, pack presents inside items from around the house, such as tote bags, wicker baskets and metal buckets. Instead of traditional wrapping paper, you can use fabric remnants, wallpaper scraps, your kids' artwork from school, old maps, pages from magazines and many other alternatives.

Check out these eco-friendly gift wrapping ideas>>

Cut back your gift list

One way to make your Christmas a whole lot greener this year is to cut back your holiday gift list. Instead of giving gifts to every adult in your extended family, draw names so that each person just has to purchase one gift. Another idea is take a friend out to a movie or dinner, instead of purchasing a tangible gift. Most of us already have enough stuff anyway. The next time someone says that they don't want or need a gift, take them seriously and don't give them one. Just spend some time together instead.

concert ticketsGive experience gifts

Experience gifts have become quite popular in recent years. Instead of giving someone a present they'll never use, give them an experience they'll appreciate. Experience gifts can be anything from festival tickets to cooking classes.

Consider do good gifts

Do you have a special skill or talent? Offer your time, services or skills as a gift. Run errands for an elderly friend. Help a neighbor start a vegetable garden, or offer to cook for a week for a new mom. Also, consider volunteering or donating in someone's name, rather than giving material gifts.

Read about these 10 Gifts that give back>>

The holidays are really about spending time with the people we love, not about acquiring more and more things. This holiday season, rethink your gifting strategy, and try to make your Christmas a little greener.

More about green holidays

Going green with your holiday decorating
Etsy roundup: Green Christmas gifts
Green holiday gifts for kids

Tips for hassle-free holiday photo shoots

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Getting that holiday card-worthy shot can seem like an impossible feat. From unruly kids to forced expressions to animals that won’t sit still, a holiday photo shoot doesn’t always turn out like you hope it will. And if you can get everyone in the same room, how do you capture a standout shot you'll be proud to display for years to come?

Family photo

We caught up with New Jersey-based lifestyle photographer Carolina Rivera, of CWR Photography, for tips on how to get the best shot and make the most out of your holiday photo shoot.

SheKnows: What makes a holiday family shot really stand out?

Carolina Rivera: To me, what's most important in a family shoot is emotion, moments and a real family bond coming through in the image. Secondary to that is the composition — keeping the backgrounds contextually relevant but simple so that expressions really stand out — and a cohesive color pattern to tie it all together.

SK: What are some pros/cons of a posed shoot versus a more spontaneous one?

CR: Family photography got its start with posed shots, with large format cameras and long exposures. Families would have to stand or sit for a long period of time with the same expression on their faces. Now having said that, I think posed family photos are a great way to carry on that tradition, and its advantage is that everyone looks happy, and you can see everyone clearly. I personally am more of a fan of a lifestyle-type session, which has more spontaneous moments and real expressions. You might not be able to see everyone's faces perfectly in every shot, but the emotion that radiates from each image is more worth it for me. When my clients have a hard time picking their family photo between a more posed image or a more spontaneous moment, I always ask them what their ultimate goal is when they show others the image. What do you want them to feel? Do you want to show everyone what you look like? Then a posed shot is more for you. Do you want to show everyone just having fun? Then a lifestyle shot may be more for you.

Family photo

SK: What are the biggest mistakes people make when hiring a photographer and the biggest mistakes people make when trying to do a photo shoot themselves?

CR: I find that a lot of people hire photographers based on price, and while I realize it's a large obstacle for some, I feel that if you're going to be spending money on something and not doing-it-yourself, no matter how much it is, it's still an investment, so make sure that person is capable and not just a family friend practicing or trying to break into photography. Also, make sure to book early.

One mistake I find is people trying to do what a professional does. Don't try to pose an image and get fancy with lighting, location, etc. If you're going to do-it-yourself, just keep it simple and natural. Many people often concentrate too much on traditional symbols or even outfits that show the holiday theme. This actually detracts from your photo and makes you look more at the Christmas tree rather than the actual family bond, which is most important.

SK: What is the best time of day to do an outdoor shoot?

CR: The best time of day is generally about two to three hours before sunset. This is because between the hours of about 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., typically, the sun is directly overhead, making unflattering shadows. If you are shooting on a cloudy or overcast day, this rule does not matter. The best lighting advice I can give to a family trying a shoot on their own is find some shade, get out of the direct sunlight and you won't need a flash because the light is nice and diffused and makes everyone's imperfections and squinting go away. The biggest mistake people make is thinking that a sunny day, right in the middle of an open field, will make a great picture. Unless you are a professional and know how to handle the light, this can make for horrible pictures.

Beach family photo

SK: What are some tips you can offer a family looking to get a great card-worthy holiday shot?

CR: If you are going to do the session yourself, here are a few pointers:

  1. Keep it simple by choosing a nice, clean background, a backyard with trees, an open field or even a cool, textured wall for posed photos to keep the attention on your subjects.
  2. Play around and don't be afraid to be yourselves. This will make for the best moments.
  3. Shoot more than one or two frames so people have time to loosen up.
  4. Please, for the love of it, don't wear matching outfits that are all the same color. It's OK to coordinate a look with everyone so that the theme runs through, but there is no need for everyone to wear red sweaters and khakis.

Eid family photo

SK: What advice would you give someone who never looks natural in photos?

CR: If you hire a professional photographer, a good one should be able to take care of that for you. If you're doing the photos yourself, I would shoot a few frames to warm yourselves up. Then, try and figure out an activity to do together, or have a conversation while the camera is on self-timer or play tickle wars with each other and see what comes out of it. Try also having someone you care about, or someone who you know will animate you or brighten you up, behind the person taking the photo, and have them be the funny guy. Sometimes, awkward moments or just really bad jokes make everyone crack up in the most natural way, and there's your shot!

You can read more about CWR Photography here or connect with Carolina on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Happy holidays!

More on the holidays

5 Tips for getting a great shot with your pet
Easy ways to ease holiday stress
Holiday gifts for the mom who loves to travel

The Bachelorette wedding reception: Awkward moments

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With Ashley and JP's wedding right around the corner, we can't help but think about all the awkward drama that's going to go down at the reception! Not because of Ashley and JP but because of their crazy guests!

We've come to expect crazy drama, catfights and unbelievably awkward moments from The Bachelor franchise, so we expect nothing less from a Bachelorette wedding! These are our top picks of crazy and awkward moments we hope to see Dec. 16 when Ashley and JP tie the knot.

Courtney Robertson

Most Likely to Get in a Catfight Over the Bouquet

Courtney Robertson from Ben Flajnik's season doesn't play nice, especially when it comes to getting flowers. When one of Ben's girls outed Courtney for not being a good person, Courtney actually said, "I almost just want to rip her head off and verbally assault her." Scary. Not to mention her obsession with "winning." When Ashley tosses the bouquet, we recommend giving Courtney some elbow room and maybe wearing some armor.

Brad Womac

Most Likely to Give a Drunken Speech

There's no doubt that Brad Womack will win in this department. This Bachelor had two chances at love and epically failed at both. His first go as the Bachelor left him so hated that he was ashamed to show his face in public! And let's not forget how he chose Emily Maynard over Ashley Hebert only to find out she isn't all she's cracked up to be. Now, his ex is getting married, and he's still alone. I'm sure a few drinks and a microphone will help to swallow that news.

Michelle Money

Most Likely to Hit on the Groom

Michelle Money swears she's not a villain — and maybe she's not — but she does have a tendency to push boundaries, piss off the girls and throw herself at men. All in good fun, of course. Lines like "All I can do is... hope that Chantel gets attacked by monkeys," didn't exactly make her new friends. Ultra sexual and drop-dead gorgeous, she knows how to make men weak in the knees, but it was her aggressive behavior with Brad Womack that always made her seem a little scary and inappropriate. She'll swear it's all in jest, but with that combination, we'd put our money on Money hitting on the groom.

Ben Flajnik

Most Likely to Cry in a Corner

Ben Flajnik was really, really heartbroken when Ashley dumped him for JP. Really, really heartbroken. He did seem to move on when he was named the Bachelor the following season and had beautiful women vying for his attention. He chose the model/villain Courtney to be his fiancee. That didn't end well, and now he's reportedly been linked to many beautiful women, such as Jennifer Love Hewitt, but only for brief romances. He's a sensitive guy, so we can't imagine he's going to make it through his ex's wedding without crying and blaming it on allergies .

Photo credits: DJDM/WENN.com, Judy Eddy/WENN.com, DJDM/WENN.com, Josiah True/ WENN.com

Holiday gift guide for the whole family

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We've rounded up the best holiday gifts for kids from toddlers to teens, and every age in between. And we also have some wonderful holiday gift suggestions for moms too.

Holiday gifts for babies and toddlers

Minnie Mouse Ball Pit

Look for bright, colorful gifts for babies and toddlers. Your little one will adore any of these fun holiday gifts for toddlers.

Holiday gifts for preschoolers

Peppa Pig Peek 'n Surprise Playhouse

From princesses to pigs, the holiday gifts for preschoolers are sure to keep your kids occupied, entertained and amused.

Holiday gifts for boys

InterAction Arnie

From dinosaurs and cars to trains and planes, we have all the best holiday gift ideas for your little boy this holiday season.

Holiday gifts for girls

Mystixx Dolls

This year, little girls are loving everything from vampires to fairies. Check out our favorite holiday gifts for girls.

Holiday gifts for tweens

Zooma Splat X Smack Slingshot

They aren't quite teenagers yet. Give holiday gifts for your tweens that are age-appropriate and a whole lot of fun too.

Holiday gifts for teens

Gift cards

Sometimes it can be difficult to shop for teenagers, but these holiday gifts for teens are sure to be appreciated.

Holiday gifts for children with special needs

Buddy the Monkey

With online resources, who needs Santa? Read our tips for choosing gifts for children with special needs and other gift ideas for kids with SPD.

Classic toys that still make great gifts

Etch A Sketch

Some toys never go out of style. Go old school this holiday season with these classic toys that your kids will love.

Educational holiday gifts for kids

Worx Toys Race Car

When you are shopping for your kids, look for toys that are educational and entertaining. Check out these learning toys for kids.

Holiday gifts for kids to spark imagination

Lite Brix Lumi-Port

Don't settle for ordinary gifts. Look for holiday gifts for kids that inspire creativity and spark imagination.

Handmade holiday gifts

Puzzle piece picture frame

Help your child get into the spirit of giving at Christmas time with these four simple holiday gifts that kids can make.

Best gifts for moms

Washable keyboard

You won't find a vacuum, blender or iron in this gift guide. Check out the holiday gifts that Mom really wants this year.


Tina Fey's daughter plays Liz Lemon's younger self

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Tina Fey's daughter, Alice, is growing up. And on Thursday night, 30 Rock fans got a chance to see how much like her mom she is.

Tina Fey

Liz Lemon finally got married on Thursday night, after seasons and seasons of failed relationships, but she wasn't the biggest star of the night — at least not in the way we know her.

The 30 Rock episode featured many flashbacks of a young Liz Lemon and her dreams of her wedding, but fans of Tina Fey's may have recognized the young Lemon as a spitting image of the older Lemon. That's because she was played by Fey's real-life daughter, Alice. Alice is 7 years old. Fey and her husband, Jeff Richmond, also have a 15-month-old daughter, Penelope.

The episode featured Liz Lemon and boyfriend Criss Chros when they decide to get married. The two have been trying unsuccessfully to adopt a child. When they see that Lemon's ex Dennis Duffy has been able to adopt, simply because he is married, they decide that marriage is the way to go.

But when they get to the courthouse, in their sweats, Liz starts to wonder if they should have tried harder at planning a wedding. She starts flashing back to her childhood and the wedding she had always dreamed of. That is where young Liz comes in, with her bowl cut and Liz Lemon attitude .

"It seems Alice has certainly inherited plenty of attitude from her mother and managed to perfect Fey's signature eye-roll," according to the UK Daily Mail.

After seven seasons, 30 Rock will air its final episode on Jan. 31, 2013. With the plotline the last few seasons based on Liz Lemon's attempts to get pregnant, there is a good chance that will be an important part of the last episode. Just before that happens, Fey will join her friend Amy Poehler to host the Golden Globe Awards on Jan. 13.

Photo courtesy of PNP/WENN

Gabby Douglas almost gave it all up for a job at Chik-fil-A

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The Olympian has been training since she was a small child, and just before the Olympics, she wanted to give it all up for a normal life.

Gabby Douglas

If Gabrielle Douglas had gotten her way, things might have been much different for the gold-medal-winning women's gymnastics team at this summer's 2012 Olympics.

Just seven months before the Olympic games, Douglas was looking to give it all up.

"Homesick for her family and worn down by years of grueling training in a sport where blacks were scarce and rampant racism sometimes bubbled from beneath the surface, the then 15-year-old phenom was ready to hang it up," said the New York Daily News.

The gymnast was tired and said she'd rather do anything but gymnastics, whether it be dancing, track or even getting a minimum wage, part-time job.

"'I can get a job at Chick-fil-A in Virginia Beach and live off the 14-grand I just won at World Championships,'" Douglas wrote in her new memoir, Grace, Gold & Glory," said the NY Daily News. "I just want to be a normal teenage kid."

The gold medalist had been working for years to get to where she was, but it seems it got to the point where it was just too much for her.

"Gymnastics is not my passion anymore," she texted her mom one day.

While Douglas is from Virginia Beach, Virginia, her mom was letting her live with a family in Iowa so she could train. Douglas' dad is in the Air National Guard, leaving her mom, Natalie Hawkins, to take care of the family alone.

"You're breaking my heart," her mom told her at the time.

Her mom and sister couldn't convince her to stay in the sport, but Douglas said it was her brother who finally got her to stick with it. When she won her medals, reporters asked her if she realized what a trailblazer she was for the sport.

"I kind of forgot about that," Gabby said, according to the NY Daily News. "Man, that's awesome, that's definitely an amazing feeling. I forgot about that."

Photo courtesy of C.M. Wiggins/WENN.com

Hugh Hefner and Crystal Harris engaged... again

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The founder of Playboy had his heart broken last year when his fiancee ran out on him just before their wedding. But it looks like they have rekindled their romance and are finally ready to walk down the aisle.

Hugh Hefner

It looks like Hugh Hefner has gained a new virtue in his life: trust. That's because the Playboy mogul announced his engagement Saturday to Crystal Harris... the same Crystal Harris who ran out just days before they were supposed to get married in 2011.

"But according to our sources, Harris and Hef are better than ever these days, since Harris moved back into the Playboy Mansion earlier this year," said TMZ. "We're told the couple have worked out all their previous problems and decided recently they want to try and get married again."

On June 14, 2011, Hefner sent out a simple tweet announcing the breakup: "The wedding is off. Crystal has had a change of heart."

TMZ sources at the mansion at the time said the couple were involved in a fight the weekend before and decided to break it off. The 86-year-old Hugh Hefner is 60 years Harris' senior.

The couple doesn't have much time to plan this wedding. They are planning to be married New Year's Eve at — where else — the Playboy mansion.

"According to our sources, Harris feels the time she spent apart from Hef really taught her how to be independent and stand on her own two feet... something she felt she needed," said TMZ.

Harris and Hefner began dating in 2008 after all three women featured on the original Girls Next Door decided to leave the mansion to pursue other careers — and men. He began dating Harris as well as a pair of identical twins, but Harris was considered the No. 1 girlfriend. The couple were apart for a year before reuniting in June 2012.

It looks like Hefner decided to forgive her for his heartache, and the wedding will go on — just a year and a half after originally planned.

Photo courtesy of Daniel Deme/WENN.com

Shakira's ex suing her for $100 million

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The singer is facing a $100 million lawsuit from her ex-boyfriend and manager just weeks after filing a lawsuit against her ex for misusing funds.

Shakira

Shakira is in a good place right now. Her career is going along as successfully as ever, and she is about to have her first baby. But she has hit a little bump in the road, as her ex-boyfriend, Antonio de la Rúa, has filed a $100 million lawsuit against her.

Talk about a bad breakup. De la Rúa was also her manager until they broke up in 2010, and Shakira filed a lawsuit against him Nov. 20 for misappropriation of funds.

"The suit was filed on November 20th in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, about a month after Shakira filed a writ of summons against de la Rúa seeking damages for misappropriation of funds," said Rolling Stone magazine. "In the suit, de la Rúa claims that he had a standing arrangement with Shakira to act as her business manager, although there was reportedly no written agreement for the position."

De la Rúa's lawsuit claims alleged breach of contract and breach of fiduciary duty. He claims he was responsible for her success and, according to Rolling Stone, is asking for "his share of past and future partnership profits."

"De la Rúa spent more than six years building the Shakira brand into one the most valuable pop-star brands in the entertainment industry," the suit said, according to Rolling Stone. "The profits earned by the partnership in 2011 and 2012, and millions of dollars that it will earn in the future, were generated by the deals he conceptualized, originated, negotiated and executed."

The couple met in 2000, and de la Rúa started working for the singer in 2004. When they later broke up, in 2010, de la Rúa said Shakira wrote on her website that "we continue to be partners in our business and professional lives.” But she later "terminated" him as her employee.

Neither Shakira nor de la Rúa have commented on either suit.

Photo courtesy of Chris Connor/WENN

Ryan Leslie ordered to pay $1 million for Twitter promise

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The singer was desperate to retrieve his laptop after it went missing last year, but he may have overstated how much it was worth to him. A judge has ruled he has to live up to the promise he made.

Ryan Leslie

Social media is a powerful tool, and a court has decided just how powerful it can be. Ryan Leslie, an R&B singer, lost his laptop last year in Germany and took to YouTube to try to find it.

After the laptop went missing, he posted a video on the site, saying, "Something very personal, something very special was taken," according to the Hollywood Reporter. "[He] said he was offering a $20,000 reward. On a later Twitter post, he wrote that he had 'raised the reward for [his] intellectual property to $1mm.'"

Someone decided to take him up on his offer and ended up finding Leslie's laptop. Armin Augstein, an auto repair shop owner, returned the laptop but was not paid the $1 million, so he decided to sue for the money. Leslie used every defense he could think of to show the judge and jury he didn't really mean it when made the offer.

"Leslie attempted to make the case that when he used the word 'offer,' that he really meant something different," said the Hollywood Reporter. "He argued that a reasonable person would have understood mention of a reward not as a unilateral contract, but instead as an 'advertisement,' an invitation to negotiate."

After he failed to make that argument stick, he attempted to tell the judge the reward was actually for some unreleased songs on the laptop, which came back "ruined." But the judge didn't buy it.

"Leslie also relies on the fact that the offer was conveyed over YouTube to undermine the legitimacy of the offer," the judge said in his statement, according to THR. "I do not find this reasoning persuasive. The forum for conveying the offer is not determinative, but rather, the question is whether a reasonable person would have understood that Leslie made an offer of a reward. I conclude that they would."

The jury at one point asked if it could award the plaintiff less than $1 million, but the judge said it needed to award all or nothing. The jury later came back with the full amount.

But it looks like Leslie tried not to get too down about the trial — he tweeted photos of himself from the courthouse. He has not commented further on the decision.

Photo courtesy of PNP/WENN.com

Dennis Quaid files for divorce

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After months of separation and reconciliation, Dennis Quaid and his wife, Kimberly, finally call it quits.

Dennis Quaid

Even though the weekend has been filled with the weddings of Mario Lopez and Courtney and Bachelorette star Ashley Hebert and J.P., it looks like it is the end of the road for Dennis Quaid and his former real estate agent wife, Kimberly Buffington.

The couple have bounced back and forth between separation and reconciliation since last March, when Kimberly initially filed for divorce. The divorce was put on hold in April as they attempted to work out their differences.

Unfortunately, that reconciliation was short-lived — she filed for legal separation again in October, and Quaid finally filed for divorce on Friday.

The couple married in 2004 on the Fourth of July, with Quaid's son from his second marriage, Jack, standing in as his best man. In 2008, the couple had a set of twins, daughter Zoe Grace and son Thomas Boone.

According to People, Dennis is offering to pay spousal support is seeking joint physical and legal custody of the children.

The Playing for Keeps actor has now racked up three divorces, counting his impending split from Kimberly. He was married to actress P.J. Soles for five years back in the '80s and to When Harry Met Sally star Meg Ryan, whom he divorced in 2001.

In 2005, the actor told USA Weekend, "The secret is keeping intimacy. It's tough to do. My wife is not in the business, so she can come with me [to movie locations]. This is going to be the marriage that works."

Image courtesy of Judy Eddy/WENN.com

Bombs go off during Kim Kardashian's Bahrain visit

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The reality TV star decided it was okay to visit the Middle East just weeks after causing controversy over another conflict in the area.

Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian has never been known for her smarts, and this time she may have risked her life. Just weeks after causing controversy on Twitter by weighing in on the Gaza conflict, she decided to visit Bahrain to launch a "milkshake empire."

According to Reuters, fans came out to see the Kardashian daughter, but many other groups did as well, including "angry Muslim hardliners." The event ended up with police and the protesters throwing stun grenades at each other.

"About 100 Sunni Salafists demonstrated with banners outside The Walk Bahrain, an upmarket mall in the capital Manama," said Reuters, "after some MPs [members of parliament] tried to block the visit over what they called her 'bad reputation,' according to a local newspaper."

The Bahraini fans, thousands of them, reportedly paid up to $1,360 a ticket to attend the event, which had Kardashian launching a "Millions of Milkshakes" franchise in a local mall.

"Witnesses said police dispersed the demonstrators with stun grenades as the inauguration proceeded inside. There were no reports of casualties," said Reuters. "Kardashian stirred controversy even before she arrived in Bahrain from Kuwait, where she opened another store last week."

Local politicians even attempted to pass a motion in parliament, calling her "an actress with an extremely bad reputation," said Reuters. But according to Bahraini newspaper Gulf Daily News, parliament did not end up voting on the motion.

The newspaper also reported that numerous fans took to Twitter to say that parliament should be focusing its time on real issues rather than on someone like Kardashian, who was visiting the country for just a short time.

"Bahrain, where the U.S. Fifth Fleet is based, is trying to overcome nearly two years of unrest among its majority Shi'ite Muslims." They are "demanding political reforms and equality with the Sunni Muslims who rule the kingdom," said Reuters.

Kardashian has not commented on the controversy.

Photo courtesy of WENN.com

Ashley Hebert is a Bachelorette no more!

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Ashley Hebert is a bachelorette no more after she married her Season 7 fiance, J.P. Rosenbaum, in a ceremony in Pasadena, California, on Saturday.

Ashley Hebert and J.P. Rosenbaum

Saturday was a rainy day in Los Angeles, but that is supposed to bring the bride and groom good luck.

In a ceremony in Pasadena, California, The Bachelorette star Ashley Hebert walked down the aisle with her fiance from the show, J.P. Rosenbaum. The duo became engaged at the end of Season 7 in August 2011 in Fiji and have enjoyed a long engagement.

Hebert told People, "Today is all about our friends and family. It's about standing with J.P., looking around at all the people we love in the same room there to celebrate our love."

Naturally, their wedding was paid for and will air on ABC in a two-hour special on Dec. 16. The network loves to promote the few couples from The Bachelor franchise who have successfully stayed together "after the final rose."

So far, only a few couples have walked down the aisle. They include Season 1 Bachelorette Trista Sutter and husband Ryan as well as Season 13 Bachelor Jason Mesnick and wife Molly. Jason famously dumped "winner"Melissa Rycroft on TV in order to date runner-up Molly. Otherwise, the couples have gone belly up.

The wedding was officiated by Bachelor host Chris Harrison, and many of the franchise's alumni were in attendance, including the Mesnicks, Emily Maynard and Ali Fedotowsky.

The 28-year-old dentist and her new construction manager husband are living in New Jersey while she completes her pediatric residency in Philadelphia and he works in New York.

As Hebert told Us Weekly, "This is going to sound pretty cheesy, but we are pretty compatible."

Image courtesy of WENN.com

Sunday Dinner: Roasted carrot and cauliflower soup

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Ready to brighten up a cold, winter day? Roasted carrot and cauliflower soup is perfect for Sunday Dinner since it’s easy to put together and makes a filling meal.

Roasted Carrot and Cauliflower Soup

Some kids don’t like carrots, but roasted carrot and cauliflower soup might change their minds. It’s creamy, full of fresh flavor and makes a great addition to any meal. Serve it with half a sandwich for a light lunch or for dinner along with a fresh green salad.

This recipe is definitely a great way to use up those extra carrots that might be hanging out, untouched, in your fridge!

Roasted carrot and cauliflower soup

Serves 4

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks, with larger pieces sliced in half
  • 1/2 head cauliflower, trimmed into florets
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
  • 3-1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
  • 2 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper, divided
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 410 degrees F.
  2. Add the carrots and cauliflower to a medium-sized bowl. Add the olive oil and 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Toss to coat.
  3. Place the carrots and cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, turning once or twice during roasting.
  4. Add the broth to a large pot, and then add the roasted carrots, cauliflower, onion, thyme and remaining salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes.
  5. Remove the soup from the heat. Use an immersion blender and carefully blend the ingredients until smooth .
  6. Add the cream, a little at a time, and continue to blend until incorporated.
  7. Serve in individual bowls, garnished with the slivered almonds or fresh parsley.

Soup to the rescue for a great Sunday dinner!

More Sunday dinner recipes

Butternut squash, spinach and mushroom quesadillas
Croque Monsieur sandwiches
Thai beef stir-fry

NBC: Matt Lauer isn't going anywhere

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With ratings down at the Today show, host Matt Lauer's name has been thrown around as the next one to go. But NBC says that just isn't going to happen.

Matt LauerThe Today Show has had a roller-coaster year, after losing the ratings war for the first time in more than 18 years to Good Morning America. The show also "re-assigned" co-host Ann Curry and put Savannah Guthrie in the slot. But now, with faltering ratings, Matt Lauer's name is being thrown around as the next one on the chopping block.

RadarOnline reported that Alexandra Wallace, who was recently hired as the next "executive in charge" at Today, told co-workers she would "replace Matt if the ratings continue to tank."

But according to Wallace, those rumors don't mean anything. She said that Lauer fans have nothing to worry about.

"There is absolutely no truth to this," she told the New York Post. "There have been some recent outrageous claims regarding Matt and the Today show, and an awful lot of piling on from nameless, faceless sources. These stories are wrong and irresponsible."

And sources told the New York Post there is nothing to worry about even with lower ratings, because the show is still winning the ratings war in the demos the network cares about.

"Lauer has become a prime fan target in light of Good Morning America's resurgence to No. 1 and the wildly unpopular dumping of Ann Curry this past summer," said the NY Post. "NBC News President Steve Capus recently came to Lauer's defense, saying the big-money host doesn't deserve blame for Today's ratings collapse."

And they are right about big money. Back in April, Lauer signed a new contract keeping him in the co-host seat for years to come. While no number was divulged, sources told the Huffington Post it could be as much as $25 million a year. NBC still seems to think Lauer is worth every penny.

"Sadly," Capus told The Daily Beast, "this is the era in which we live: Venomous tweets somehow threaten to drown out all of those who praised Matt for his coverage."

Photo courtesy of Joseph Marzullo/WENN.com

Twilight will not give up the weekend box office

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Not even a new Brad Pitt movie could put a dent in the Twilight conclusion.
Breaking Dawn Part 2

Box
office
Top 10

Find out what topped the charts this weekend!

1

Breaking Dawn — Part 2

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2 is sitting quite comfortably at No. 1, proving it's going to take a blockbuster behemoth to oust this epic conclusion. Kristen StewartRobert Pattinson and their fellow vampires rounded out the weekend with $17.4 million.

2

Skyfall

Skyfall stands at a close second with $17 million, giving Daniel Craig and the Bond enterprise a cumulative $246 million to date.

3

Lincoln

Lincoln maintained its throne at No. 3 yet again, bringing in $13.5 million to close out the weekend.

4

Rise of the Guardians

The animated adventure of holiday heroes, Rise of the Guardians, stayed in the No. 4 seat, but the turn of December shows promise for the flick. Rise of the Guardians follows Santa Claus and a handful of other compadres dedicated to the preservation of hope and innocence in children throughout the year. Sounds perfect for the holidays.

5

The Life of Pi

The Life of Pi held down its No. 5 spot for the second weekend in a row. The film, which debuted last weekend, chronicles a survival story and the fruition of one of the least expected friendships imaginable — between a young man and a Bengal tiger.

6

Wreck-It Ralph

Wreck-It Ralph pulled in $7 million, giving the animated comedy command of the No. 6 ranking for yet another weekend.

7

Killing Them Softly

No. 7 is the big story this week and really the only significant change in the box office rankings. Brad Pitt and Killing Them Softly debuted with $7 million, telling the story of mafia revenge and the turning tide of a failing American economy.

8

Red Dawn

The Red Dawn remake dropped a spot this weekend to No. 8. Channing Tatum leads his band of Wolverines against a foreign invasion in small-town America.

9

Flight

Flight landed at No. 9, also falling one spot, but still claimed $4.5 million.

10

The Collection

Debuting at No. 10 and hailing from the twisted writers of the Saw franchise is the new horror film The Collection.

Tell us

Which movie did you see this weekend? Share in the comments below!

Photo credit: Andrew Cooper, SMPSP

Kate Middleton's pregnancy: How far along is she?

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Kate Middleton and Prince William are going to be parents! The big question now: When is the Duchess of Cambridge due?

Kate Middleton pregnant: When is Kate Middleton Due

Rumors have been swirling for months about Kate Middleton's pregnancy status, but now it's official: She's pregnant!

The big question now: When is she due? The official royal statement said that the pregnancy is "in its very early stages," which could mean a lot of things. However, it seems likely that she's still in the first trimester and only disclosed the news given her current battle with hyperemesis gravidarum.

Baby names Kate Middleton is sure to love! >>

Hyperemesis gravidarum is one scary sounding name for morning sickness. According to medical professionals, HG affects about one percent of pregnant women and is characterized by severe vomiting, nausea, weight loss, dehydration, fainting and light-headedness.

In other words, nothing to mess with.

The royal family seems confident enough in her pregnancy to come forward with the news.

"Her Royal Highness is expected to stay in hospital for several days and will require a period of rest thereafter," the statement continued.

Top fairy tale weddings & why we loved them >>

We can't help but worry since it is so early — and many doctors recommend not disclosing a pregnancy until after the first trimester. We do know that Middleton and the royal bundle of joy will have the best of care.

Also, we can't help but hope that the baby is a girl, especially since the rules about succession have changed. The British Monarchy — in collaboration with Prime Minister David Cameron — abolished the rule that only the firstborn son could become sovereign.

"The idea that a younger son should become monarch instead of an elder daughter simply because he is a man, or that a future monarch can marry someone of any faith except a Catholic; this way of thinking is at odds with the modern countries that we've all become," Cameron told reporters in October 2011.

Prince William and Kate Middleton: Year One >>

"Put simply, if the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were to have a little girl, that girl would one day be our queen."

A stylish queen, we're sure!

Image courtesy WENN.com
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