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Emma Watson is definitely not dating Prince Harry, because she said so

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OK, maybe we did. Because who wouldn't want to see our joint-favourite prince getting together with one of the country's most awesome, badass young women, who's not only a super talented actress but a fabulous feminist role model for her generation?

Alas, it isn't to be. Watson herself has put the rumours to bed, in the most brilliant way:

Emma Watson Prince Harry

Emma Watson Prince Harry

Too vague? Well, her follow-up tweet should leave us in no doubt as to what she's talking about: 

Emma Watson Prince Harry 2

Emma Watson Prince Harry 2

More: Emma Watson crushes on Steve Carell for supporting #HeForShe at the Oscars

This is the video Watson linked to — a standout scene from the 1995 film A Little Princess, in which Sara Crewe tries to persuade her boarding school headmistress Miss Minchin that all little girls are princesses, no matter where they come from, what they look like, or how rich or clever they are. It's worth watching, just for a little reminder.

All Girls Are Princesses

All Girls Are Princesses

Video credit: MOVIECLIPS/YouTube

More celebrity gossip

Catherine Tyldesley gives us the baby bump pic of the year
We don't think Rebecca Ferguson needs to lose weight
A Spice Girl who's not a feminist? Thank god for Little Mix


Giving birth in a hospital is riskier than you think

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A new report shows that hospital birth is not nearly as safe for women and newborns as we would like to think — and we all deserve better.

The Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit watchdog, released the results of its 2014 Maternity Care report, and here's something shocking for you: Maternity care in the U.S. is still not up to snuff. According to the report, less than a third of hospitals across the nation meet Leapfrog's standard for high‐risk deliveries of very low birth weight babies, and 35 percent of hospitals are still performing too many episiotomies.

So what does this all mean? Basically that hospitals are taking unnecessary risks with women and newborns, in the name of profit and convenience.

The report found that less than a quarter of hospitals are not equipped to take care of low birth weight babies, which are babies that will obviously need a lot more specialized care. More and more babies are being born with low birth weights, as more mothers with high-risk pregnancies, such as multiples or complications from advanced age, are giving birth, so it's important that all hospitals have the equipment to deal with those babies, even if they're not specializing in high-risk deliveries.

Induction is also a huge cause for low birth weight in babies, because contrary to popular belief, those full 40 weeks do matter. Ovulation and fertilization can be off by as much as two weeks for women, so unless you were inseminated by a doctor, there is no way to know exactly how old your baby is. If your doctor induces you at 39 weeks, your baby may be only 37 weeks old, and let me assure you that I have seen babies go to the NICU at that age. Nature grows 'em for nine months for a reason.

Unfortunately all these interventions can be traced back to the fact that, bottom line, hospitals are concerned about money. Inducing women early means a faster turnover, and episiotomies can mean faster deliveries and opening up a new bed for the next woman to deliver. I've worked in a small, rural hospital, and although we technically didn't accept "high-risk deliveries," that didn't stop a woman down the road, whose water broke at 30 weeks, from waltzing through the doors at 3 a.m. Emergencies happen, and hospitals need to take the time and money to train their staff for those high-risk deliveries that are just bound to happen, no matter what.

Better maternity care is good for business too, as the report points out. If you were an employer, what bill would you rather pay for your employee — a standard vaginal delivery with no complications, or a three-day induction resulting in a baby that has to be rushed to the NICU and a mom who bleeds out from a tired uterus? And let's not forget the fact that we're talking about actual people here and that those women who are giving birth aren't just baby-making factories but actual real, live, breathing women who are part of the workplace in some way or another, whether that be bringing home a paycheck or raising future workers. Unlike in every other unit in a hospital, a woman giving birth is not sick, so it's frustrating that maternity care is lumped into every other category in health care.

As a wise woman (cough, Patricia Arquette, cough) recently pointed out, mothers get the short end of the stick across the board — in wage, in employment opportunities and, apparently, even in their own health care. And it's time for that to change.

More on hospital birth

Home birth or hospital?
Why my hospital births were like a vacation
Basics of birth plan writing

Bachelorette front-runners leaked, revealing who wins The Bachelor

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According to a source who spoke with E! Online, The Bachelorette race is down to four ladies, all from Chris Soules' season of The Bachelor.

More: ABC airs "brutal" Chris Harrison interview with Andi Dorfman

But here's the kicker: Chris' season isn't done yet and some of the girls who are in the running for The Bachelorette haven't been eliminated yet, which means the list doesn't just give us an idea of who will be the next to hand out roses, it also tells us who wins Chris' heart.

Warning: Do not continue reading unless you want to know who wins The Bachelor and who could be the next Bachelorette.

1. Jade

The Bachelor's Jade

Jade is definitely a fan favorite despite her past decision to pose nude for Playboy. America loves a comeback story and, just because she's OK being naked, doesn't mean she doesn't deserve love. Jade would be a fun Bachelorette because she's a sweetheart, but she's also got a wild side that I don't think The Bachelor was ever able to bring out of her.

More: Was The Bachelor's Ashley S. faking her craziness?

2. Becca

The Bachelor's Becca

Though Becca was my top pick for Chris, I think she's a little too sweet to be The Bachelorette. She would be like the female version of Sean Lowe. And don't get me wrong, while I think good girls are amazing, it doesn't make for great television.

3. Kaitlyn

The Bachelor's Kaitlyn

Kaitlyn is my personal favorite pick for the next Bachelorette, just because she's absolutely hilarious. She makes fun of the girls while also still managing to maintain her cool-girl status because she makes fun of herself just as much. She would definitely bring a unique flair to the show and we would love to hear all her commentary about her suitors. She would surely not be the type to hold back.

More: The Bachelor Week 5: Who needs Ashley S. when you've got Kelsey?

4. Britt

The Bachelor's Britt

I like Britt, I really do, but there is something that just always kind of felt off about her. Maybe it was the weird way she started the show by hugging everyone or the insta-connection she had with Chris that was so cheesy it was hard not to gag. Either way, I just never saw her winning Chris' heart. And, by the way, I don't blame her for calling him out last episode. I think it's good she can stand up for herself and ask the tough questions. But, at the same time, I also don't see her as the Bachelorette.

The Bachelor is down to the final three — Becca, Kaitlyn and Whitney — in the new episode tonight on ABC. And since Whitney is the only one who apparently isn't being considered for The Bachelorette, we can either assume that she won Chris' heart or was considered "too nice" to fill the spot. I'm definitely guessing the former on this one.

Who do you think should be the next Bachelorette?

Images: ABC

Sorry, HuffPost: This is how a 'non-scamming' book reviewer works

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He admitted, "There's no other reason to write a bad review unless it's personal." Furthermore, according to Raphael, we only write good reviews due to swag — the gifts given to us by publishers to make their newest debut author sound good.

I'm sorry, but that's just not true. At least, not for me.

Maybe Raphael lives in some weird celebrity reality where he downs martinis with George R.R. Martin and E. L. James, but most of us do not.

More: Writer vs. director: Fifty Shades of Grey set drama?

A day in the life of this book reviewer?

FedEx rolls down my tiny street in Phoenix, Arizona. My dogs bark. There's an envelope on the front porch and inside I find a book. No diamonds. No tickets to Paris. Simply a book.

How do I decide to review a book? In this case, Raphael is at least a little bit on track. He writes, "So all you indie authors who bitch about not getting reviewed? Suck on it. You'll never break into the system."

I admit that before I review a book, I search for "buzz." If there's enough buzz or an interesting angle, I review the book. Unfortunately, some of the smaller presses and newer authors don't get the chance they deserve. It sucks, but it's true.

More: Book cyberbullying via comments: Don't be a troll!

That said, I'm not going to write a bad review of a book because I think Caitlin Moran is and always will be more famous than me. I won't write a good review just because Cary Elwes was "nice" during our phone interview. (It does help, though; being nice gets you far, no matter the industry.)

There are bad books; do not think for a moment I don't know this. I've reviewed them for work, including one about sorority life and the Anna Todd publishing debacle. What makes for a bad book? Not reader jealousy, but bad writing, overused characters, predictable plots and... bad writing. It happens, but so does good writing, which is the opposite of everything I just mentioned.

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

The Huffington Post article this morning made me cringe, because according to Raphael, "all" book reviewers are just like him — and I do not want to be lumped in with this guy.

All book reviewers are not catty, immature, greedy babies. Some of us love our jobs because in writing a review about a book we admire, we spread the love to other readers. A gift that keeps on giving.

I review books because I love them, not because of the perks. I'm very happy for Mr. Raphael and all his wondrous swag, but please, keep that stuff away from me. I don't want to be anything like him.

More reading

Caitlin Moran talks Benedict Cumberbatch, her novel and furiously masturbating
We admit: Anna Todd's After is pretty bad — here's why
Does this sorority life exposé Dirty Rush take things too far?

Tom Hanks' son makes a music video that literally makes us sick (VIDEO)

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Chet Hanx, the artist formerly known as Chet Haze, dropped the video for his new song, "The Thirst," on YouTube, and unfortunately, it is not about yearning for a tasty beverage. Oh, if only it were.

It is actually about large quantities of vaginal lubrication. So gross, you guys. Not only are the lyrics to this not safe for work, we'd venture so far as to say this is not safe for life.

Watch the video for Chet Hanx's song "The Thirst":

Chet Hanx The Thirst

Chet Hanx The Thirst

"Drip, drip, drip…" Why is it green? We can't. We just cannot.

Regardless of the quality of the subject matter, we're happy that Chet is channeling his energy into something productive. Last fall, 24-year-old Chet revealed that he had been battling drug addiction since he was 16 and had been to rehab earlier that year.

Chet Hanx rehab Instagram

Chet Hanx rehab Instagram

While Chet's latest artistic endeavor might not highlight his talent to its fullest, we do have to commend him for trying to follow his dream and not just riding his father's coattails through life. But maybe dear ol' dad could provide him with just a little career guidance?

Farrah Abraham threw an adorable party for her daughter's birthday (PHOTOS)

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But we hope, this time at least, she pulls a Taylor Swift and shakes it off. Because the birthday party she threw for her daughter, Sophia, was adorable and age-appropriate.

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 7

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 7

Of course, Abraham isn't without her faults. The Teen Mom star is, after all, making a living with a "celebrity sex tape" (i.e. a porno) and by selling sex toys. Not the best example for a 6-year-old. But at least she's keeping these things away from her daughter. (We hope!)

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 1

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 1

Sophia is makeup-free and completely covered for her glamorous red carpet party. Friends and family celebrated together while letting the 6-year-old feel like a princess for a day. What little girl doesn't love dressing up?

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 2

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 2

Even Abraham's boyfriend, Simon Saran, was there to celebrate and looked like he fit nicely into the family fold, even cutting the cake with Abraham's dad.

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 3

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 3

Abraham herself toned it down for the event. Instead of her normally extreme push-up bra and skimpy apparel, the mom chose an appropriate dress with a longer hem for a natural look.

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 4

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 4

The party was Oscar-themed because Sophia's birthday this year coincided with the Oscars, which aired last night. Her party looked just as fun as the real deal — with a red carpet, a photo booth and "paparazzi" to cap off the effect.

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 5

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 5

Of course, I didn't have a personal photo shoot at my parties, but that was in the days before smartphones and social media, so it's understandable that Abraham would want to show off her little lady with some glam pics.

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 6

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 6

Sophia's biological father, Derek, tragically died in a car accident just two months before Sophia was born. Abraham told Wetpaint that she does talk to Sophia about her father and works to keep his memory alive.

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 8

Farrah Abraham daughter bday photo 8

News recently broke that Abraham will be returning to MTV for a spinoff reality series called Teen Mom OG, which stands for "Original Girls." Abraham told E! Online her decision to return had to do with her daughter.

"I think Teen Mom is important for the children and their futures. And I think it holds some good opportunities for Sophia and her future."

Does that mean Abraham is grooming her daughter for the spotlight?

Do you think Abraham's red carpet-themed birthday party was appropriate for her 6-year-old daughter?

Parks and Rec baby names that make us laugh

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Though the show got off to a pretty rocky start — seriously, skip Season 1 entirely if you're going to binge your way through — it rapidly became one of the most beloved comedies on television. Who knew local government bureaucracy could be so entertaining? The seventh and final season of Parks and Rec comes to an end tonight, with the aptly named "One Last Ride." They have one final problem to solve in Pawnee, and it involves naming your baby. I'm assuming.

TV shows offer up a huge buffet of trendy baby name choices with their anachronistic naming styles. Names like Emma and Noah didn't rank so high 30 years ago, but writers choose current chart toppers to ensure the names appeal to today's ears. So yay! This should be easy!

Except, the writers of Parks and Rec were a little bit smarter. They fully captured the feel of a government office in middle America. These names aren't quite rusty enough to fall into the category of old people baby names we love, but you might get a bit ahead of trends with one of these middle-aged monikers.

Baby girl names inspired by Parks and Rec

If you have a baby girl tonight, you actually have to name her Leslie.

Baby boy names inspired by Parks and Rec

I know you're probably not going to name your baby boy Jean-Ralphio, but I kind of wish you would.

More TV-inspired baby names

Cool baby names from Grey's Anatomy
Baby names from Once Upon a Time
Badass baby names from Sons of Anarchy

8 Kylie Jenner belfies that put Kim Kardashian's booty to shame (PHOTOS)

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More: Why Kylie Jenner's 17-year-old lips do have an impact on other people

The youngest of the Kardashian/Jenner clan took to Instagram on Monday, Feb. 23, to share a picture of herself sporting striped Me Undies and baggy gray sweatpants. She captioned the pic, "Staying comfortable in my @meundies Time to jump in bed after this long week."

Kylie Jenner Instagram

Kylie Jenner Instagram

Now, most of us would not take to social media and show off our butts, let alone our underwear, but then again, we do not have Kim Kardashian for a sister — and it's clear that Kylie is following firmly in her big sis' footsteps.

More: Kim Kardashian and North West involved in a car crash

This is far from the first picture that Jenner has shared of her booty, too. In fact, it does not take much digging to see that she is rather fond of her rump and she gives it plenty of exposure, much to the delight of her large and ever-growing social media following.

It's great that she has such body confidence — and she's grown accustomed to attention, having grown up in the public eye (and we can only imagine how hard that must be) — but is posting loads of seductive belfies appropriate for a teen? Take a look at her pics and decide for yourself.

Kylie Jenner Instagram 2

Kylie Jenner Instagram 2

Kylie Jenner Instagram 3

Kylie Jenner Instagram 3

Kylie Jenner Instagram 4

Kylie Jenner Instagram 4

Kylie Jenner Instagram 5

Kylie Jenner Instagram 5

There's even a little side booty shot going on here.

Kylie Jenner Instagram 6

Kylie Jenner Instagram 6

Kylie Jenner Instagram

Kylie Jenner Instagram

Kylie Jenner Instagram 7

Kylie Jenner Instagram 7

More: Amber Rose takes aim at Tyga and 'baby' Kylie Jenner's romance (VIDEO)

We wonder what Tyga has to say about all these belfies. Because he is certainly not afraid to publicly declare just how beautiful he thinks Jenner is.

Tyga Instagram

Tyga Instagram


The Walking Dead has one cast member that we really can't stand

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More: The Walking Dead's first gay male character — what you need to know

There were times when Rick's facial hair used to be hot, but those moments are in the past. That behemoth on his face has gone from sexy to gross. Here are a few reasons why it's about time it got chopped off.

1. He's so much hotter without it

twd season 1 gif

Image: Giphy.com

Just feast your eyes on the beauty of Rick back in Season 1. The overgrown beard wasn't there and Rick's face was simply stunning. Check out those piercing blue eyes that the beard has all but made disappear these days.

2. It makes him look old

The longer the beard gets, the grayer it gets, which in turn makes Rick look older. We're not talking that sexy, older-man vibe either. It's just plain old and we don't like how it makes him look older than he really is. The apocalypse is probably going to age everyone prematurely, but there's no reason we need to see that on Rick's face.

3. It's probably really gross

The Walking Dead - Rick

When you think about it, having a thick, long beard in the apocalypse is probably not the best idea. Can you just imagine how much food, blood and walker guts get into that thing? Yuck.

4. Alexandria is a fresh start

The group is marching into a new, safe place. By the look of Aaron, we can probably assume that they have access to basic things like showers, clean clothes and, yes, razors. We think Alexandria would be the perfect place for Rick to make a fresh start and say bye-bye to the beard.

5. Andrew Lincoln hates it, too

The Walking Dead: Andrew Lincoln interview

The Walking Dead: Andrew Lincoln interview

In a video interview from 2013, Lincoln talked about the beard and the battle he's had with it. He said his son didn't even recognize pictures of him from Season 1. How sad is that? Lincoln himself said he's "aging terribly" with the beard and that he wanted to shave it off.

6. Everyone else manages to keep theirs in check

The Walking Dead - Daryl

Sure, you can argue that it's hard to keep up with personal hygiene in an apocalypse, but that doesn't seem to be an issue with anyone else in the group. Most of the men are clean-shaven and those that do sport some facial hair keep it trim and neat.

7. It's going to scare Judith

If Rick allows his beard to just keep on growing, it's going to become a forest by the time Judith is old enough to realize who her dad is. That poor little girl is probably going to get more scared of her own dad than the walkers.

More: The Walking Dead — Tyreese plays protector and 13 other perfect moments

8. The apocalypse doesn't need lumberjacks

Beards might be all the rage right now and we know a lot of ladies enjoy that lumberjack look on their menfolk. But a zombie apocalypse is not a place for lumberjacks. If Rick is growing that thing as some way to be in style, then we plead with him to stop.

9. It's a reminder of a sorrowful past

twd rick gif

Image: Giphy.com

Remember back in the good old days of the apocalypse when Rick was beardless and hadn't yet discovered the terrors of the world? He's been through a lot since then and lost so many people it's a wonder he's not still crazy and hearing voices on disconnected telephones. The more that has happened, the longer the beard has gotten. Maybe Rick could erase some of that pain with a few swipes of a razor.

10. He's still a badass without it

twd rick kill gif

Image: Giphy.com

Yes, we know Rick is a BAMF with that beard. But will he really lose any of that badass cred if he chops it off? Imagine Rick biting into people's necks or hacking off heads with his machete and a clean-shaven face. Got that image in your head? OK, now take away the beard and try to tell us that he's any less of a badass.

11. He doesn't need it to be a leader

The Rick-tatorship does not require facial hair to run. Chop off the beard and we've still got a man who knows how to keep his people safe, while still being open to suggestions from those around him. Rick has all the qualities of a fantastic leader, no matter how much hair is on his face.

12. It actually looks fake

We know Lincoln shaves his beard every time they wrap filming and then starts growing it again when it's time to start prepping for a new season. But even though we know it's real, we can't help but feel that it's fake, sometimes. Every once in a while the camera angle or the lighting makes it look like they just glued it on his face, which isn't even remotely attractive.

More: 18 Signs you're too obsessed with living in a post-apocalyptic world

13. Shorter is better

twd rick gif

Image: Giphy.com

If Rick must have a beard, we're voting for shorter. Back in earlier seasons, Rick's beard hadn't yet become the monster that it is today. When it was shorter and trimmer, it didn't look half bad. In fact, there were moments when the shorter beard was quite sexy.

What do you think of Rick's beard on The Walking Dead? Should he shave it off or not?

Alleged assailant blames Fifty Shades of Grey for his attack

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Freshman Mohammad Hossain is behind bars with his bail set at $500,000 after prosecutors say he sexually assaulted a woman in his dorm room. The woman says she pleaded for him to stop as he beat her with a belt and his fists and then raped her.

Does this sound like the plot of Fifty Shades of Grey to you? As poorly executed as the BDSM scenes in the book may be, Fifty Shades is not a manual on how to rape. The foundation of the BDSM lifestyle is consent. No matter how extreme sex acts related to BDSM culture seem to those on the outside looking in, those acts are performed with the consent of both parties.

Consent. It can't be emphasized enough. Consent is critical whether you're testing the BDSM waters or having perfectly vanilla sex with your spouse.

And according to allegations against Mohammad Hossain, he not only failed to get consent from the woman he assaulted, he repeatedly ignored her desperate pleas and attempts to escape him. Blaming scenes from Fifty Shades of Grey is a disgusting cop-out. It's a particularly bizarre — but not unsurprising — effort to deflect the blame when it comes to rape. This is rape culture at its very worst. But let's be clear: It's just as ludicrous to blame an rape on an erotic work of fiction as it would be to blame violence on Warner Brothers cartoons.

Our thoughts are with the 19-year-old student who went through this ordeal and had the courage to share it with another person, who contacted the police. Keep in mind that almost 70 percent of rapes go unreported to the authorities. Hossain's victim not only has to deal with the assault, but the storm of unnecessary commentary linking what happened to a popular film and movie. Let's place the blame firmly where it lies — in the choices made by her alleged assailant.

Read more

Lena Dunham pens moving essay about rape culture: 12 Quotes that stood out
How to talk to your son about date rape
Why doubting Bill Cosby's alleged rape victims is the worst thing to do

These Disney-inspired doughnuts are almost too cute to eat

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In the best way possible!

Over at Fork to Belly, what I can pretty much guarantee are some of the cutest doughnuts of all time are being showcased.

Cleverly using colored candy melts, they decorated some simple baked cake doughnuts to look like the iconic outfits of some of our favorite classic Disney characters.

disney doughnuts

disney doughnuts

There are polka dots and a flower for Minnie Mouse, pink and yellow and a bow for Daisy Duck and an adorable blue cap and red bow for Daffy.

And you can't forget Mickey — some red for his trousers and a pair of adorable round ears, and there's no mistaking his edible counterpart.

The good news is that the recipe isn't even that difficult to execute — you could be chowing down on your own by this evening! The doughnuts are baked, not fried, which saves a ton of hassle, and you can just use a Ziploc bag with a corner cut off to decorate if you don't have a pastry bag handy.

Check out all the photos of these adorable Disney doughnuts, and get the recipe on Fork to Belly.

More doughnut ideas

The life-changing crescent doughnut grilled cheese is finally here
Boozy maple bacon doughnut milkshake
Loaded glazed doughnut breakfast sandwich

Liv Tyler welcomes a son: See his cute preppy baby name

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Liv Tyler baby name

Liv Tyler baby name

Liv Tyler’s little boy was anxious to be welcomed into the world, as the little tot reportedly arrived six weeks early. The 37-year-old actress announced her son's unique preppy baby name in the above Instagram post.

"Sailor Gene Gardner," she captioned the photo, which shows her son's tiny hand grasping onto a charm with an anchor on it.

Sailor is a unique baby name choice that hasn't ranked in the top 1000 for boys or girls in the last 100 years, according to the Social Security Administration.

Tyler isn't the only celebrity mom to pick this name, as Christie Brinkley has a daughter named Sailor. No word yet on why the couple picked this cute nautical-inspired name. Perhaps the tot was conceived on a yacht?

His middle name, Gene, is a name of Greek and English origin that means "well born." Tyler's dad, Aeromith's Steven Tyler, shared the above picture on his Instagram page and captioned the photo, "That's my grandbaby Sailor Gene... he's makin waves already."

This is the second child for Tyler, who has a 10-year-old son named Milo with her ex Royston Langdon. The actress could be next planning a wedding, as she was recently spotted out wearing a huge sparkly ring on her engagement finger.

The proud grandpa previously posted a picture of him and his other daughter Mia with Liv in the hospital shortly before she sent into labor. "Love is love is love" Steven captioned the photo. "So proud of my Alpha Pup."

Steven Tyler and Liv

Steven Tyler and Liv

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DC Collector, YouTube's biggest kids star, has adult film past

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Turns out the hands of the DC Collector belong to Brazilian adult film star Diane DeJesus, according to the Daily Mail, who once went by the screen name Sandy Summers.

According to a source who claims to be a "close friend" of DeJesus, 32, and her husband, Messias Credidio (nice friend, BTW), the couple are behind the $5 million a year Disney Collector empire, making her the highest paid performer on YouTube.

Since the revelation, neighbors of the couple in their upscale Orlando, Florida, neighborhood have confirmed their identities, however the couple has gone to a lot of trouble to try and stay anonymous, for pretty obvious reasons.

The phenomenon of "unboxing" or opening presents isn't anything new, but it was DeJesus' calming voice and demeanor that helped the DC Collector videos stand out. But it will be interesting to see if the revelation about where those DC Collector hands have been will hurt the videos' earning power over the next year.

As a parent of a kid who consumes way more of these unboxing videos than is probably recommended, I have to say I've always had a bad feeling about these for a number of reasons. First, it's just all-out consumerism at its finest. Certainly not the kind of thing you should be reinforcing in a kid.

But over the hours I've sat with my 4-year-old and watched these crazy things, I couldn't help but be struck by a kind of underlying kind of hand and toy fetish thing going on there. In our house, my husband and I joke that the YouTube unboxing videos are just "toy porn." Is it possible they really are?

Or is this just a case of a woman with a past who found redemption in the anonymity of videos featuring only her hands?

But you still have to wonder if unwitting parents like myself been letting our kids watch some kind of adult hand fetish videos instead of the benign unboxing we thought were just occupying our kids while we made dinner? Either way, I think we'll be curtailing our DC Collector YouTube videos for the time being. Especially now that we know where those brightly manicured hands have been.

What do you think? Do your kids watch these videos? Do you think there could be some kind of hand fetish stuff going on there?

Here is DC Collector's most popular video. Take a look, and let us know what you think.

DC Collector AngryBirds

DC Collector AngryBirds

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9 ways to beat SAD during a long, cruel winter

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Katherine Schafler, a New York City-based licensed psychotherapist, says the most common symptoms of SAD include feeling depressed or down for the majority of the day for at least two weeks; feeling inexplicably tired and heavy, as if your bones are made of lead; appetite changes, especially craving carbohydrates; sleeping too little or too much; irritability; and withdrawing from activities that typically bring you pleasure and happiness.

"Before you freak out and spend the next 20 minutes falling down the WebMD rabbit hole, it's important to note that SAD is more than just feeling 'out of it' for a few days and wanting some pasta," Schafler points out. "SAD is also marked by a withdrawal from social activities, uncharacteristic pessimism and the inability to extract as much pleasure from things that normally make you happy."

Schafler says SAD is connected to legitimate physiological changes in your brain and body, mainly disrupted circadian rhythms and a subsequent disruption in your ability to absorb a "happiness hormone" called serotonin. Women, she adds, are twice as likely as their male counterparts to be diagnosed as clinically depressed.

"The onset for clinical depression most typically hits in the mid-20s, and because seasonal affective disorder is a subset of depression, I would say this research puts millennial women at a more significant risk," Schafler says.

Thankfully there's a lot we can do to combat the symptoms of the winter blues. Check out the list of tips and tricks below to help improve your mood when you're feeling blue.

1. Take some vitamin D

Since the sun tends to go MIA during the winter months, it's not a bad idea to stock up on some vitamin D. Studies have shown that taking such supplements greatly helps to improve your mood.

"Ask [your doctor] about how vitamin D and melatonin supplements can impact mood," Schafler suggests. "Both are thought to improve circadian realignment, a major factor in SAD. Your doctor can also discuss other supplement remedies and medications that might help boost your mood, depending on your needs."

2. Cool it on the caffeine

While nothing tastes better on a wintry day than a seasonal latte, it might not be the best choice of drink because of all the caffeine. Drinking too many caffeinated beverages, such as soda, coffee and tea, can spike insulin levels and drop blood sugar levels, which contributes to a sense of fatigue and is also extremely dehydrating.

"Eating wisely also means watching the caffeine, which suppresses serotonin," says Julia Ross, author of The Mood Cure and The Diet Cure. "If you must drink coffee, save it for after the meal."

Natural, non-caffeinated ways to boost your energy include exercising, avoiding junk food, eating more fruits and veggies, drinking lots of water and getting plenty of rest.

3. Set a regular sleep schedule

Sleeping until noon might feel like your body's natural urge when there's a foot of snow outside your window, but if you can, try to avoid spending all day in bed. Your body works best on seven to nine hours of sleep and responds better when you keep a regular routine.

"Make sure you get the right amount of sleep — not too little, and not too much," recommends Lolly Daskal in an article. "Sometimes when it's dark and cold outside, a warm bed is hard to leave. Overcoming that tendency is another reason to plan some fun for yourself."

4. Eat clean

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet full of fruits, veggies and whole grains will not only help prevent that dreaded winter weight gain, but it will also help your body produce brain chemicals that make you feel more energetic and upbeat.

"Avoid refined and processed foods [like white breads, rice and sugar]," suggests fitness instructor Nicole Nichols. "These foods are not only devoid of the nutrients your body craves, but they zap your energy levels and can affect your mood — causing depression, lack of concentration and mood swings. Try to incorporate more complex carbohydrates [whole wheat breads, brown rice, veggies, fruit], and get your daily 8 cups of water. These healthy foods provide your body [and mind] with nutrients and stabilize your blood sugar and your energy levels."

Also make sure to load up on omega-3 fats, like salmon, walnuts and flaxseed, as well as lean protein, such as skinless poultry, lean red meat and eggs, which encourage your body to release the feel-good chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine after you eat.

5. Make your body move

Extra motivation might be needed to brave the blistering cold, but your body will definitely thank you for it. Exercising regularly helps boost feelings of well-being and positivity as well as increases energy levels by upping your endorphins and the brain's feel-good chemicals.

"I know it's annoying to hear this as a suggestion, because everyone already knows that exercise is generally helpful, but even just doing 10 minutes of exercise in the middle of your living room changes your brain chemistry and can boost your mood," says Schafler.

6. Discover new light sources

While sticking yourself under a sunlamp (aka tanning beds) is not necessarily encouraged, doctors do recommend getting your daily dose of faux sun through a light box, which simulates sunlight and helps regulate the brain chemicals that affect your mood. Just a few weeks of treatment, consisting of 30 to 60 minutes per day, has been proven to help around 70 percent of patients.

"Light a candle, pull the shades wide open, turn on extra lights in your home," Schafler suggests. "Light therapy is an actual thing, and choosing the right light box for you can be surprisingly effective."

7. Stay social

After the high of holiday gatherings subsides, you might find yourself feeling a little more isolated or not knowing what to do with yourself and time. If such a situation occurs, do your best to get out and be social. Researchers have found that 1 in 5 people feel sad solely due to social isolation, which can make you more vulnerable to mental health problems.

"Don't underestimate the power of friends, family, mentors, co-workers and neighbors," Nichols says. "Who can you turn to when you're down and need a pick-me-up? Keep a mental list of these special people, and don't be afraid to ask for help or encouragement when you need it. Something as simple as a phone call, a chat over coffee or a nice email or letter can brighten your mood."

The more you withdraw, the worse you feel, so gather some friends, and go grab a meal.

8. Satisfy your sweet tooth

But seriously, what can't chocolate cure? Dark chocolate, the kind with 70 percent cocoa or more, has been shown to help boost dopamine levels in your brain as well as significantly reduce stress hormone levels.

"Certain foods, like chocolate, can help to enhance your mood and relieve anxiety," says Brigitt Hauck.

As if we really needed another reason to indulge in a little hot cocoa!

9. Don't be afraid to seek help

If none of the above remedies seems to shake the funk you're in, don't be afraid to seek counseling. It's a sign of self-awareness and maturity to know when you're in need of a little extra help and to make a conscious decision to receive it.

"If the winter is extra rough for you for whatever reason, get a little extra support," Schafler says. "I see a lot of clients who know the winter is not their best season emotionally and come in to see me for three months or so of 'booster therapy,' which always strikes me as so self-aware and positive."

If you think a friend, family member or loved one might be suffering from SAD, Schafler suggests employing the communication strategy of "sharing the dilemma," wherein you transparently preface your concern with the truth about your nervousness in saying it. For example, saying, "I'm nervous to tell you this because I don't want to upset you or make you feel like I'm judging you, but I care about you more than I'm nervous, so here goes: I'm worried you might be depressed or that the winter blues are really getting to you in a serious way."

More health and wellness

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8 Metabolism-boosting foods that people swear by

Kanye West's BET speech is actually worth a watch for many reasons (VIDEO)

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What started with an admittedly funny joke about his wife Kim Kardashian and her dating preference for black men turned into a pretty inspired speech on the state of race relations in America.

Kanye shared a story told to him by Kim about the importance of everyone, regardless of race, understanding what intolerance looks and feels like.

More: 12 Kanye West quotes to make you say 'Dear Yeezus'

"She told me [about] where her father, Robert Kardashian, walked out and on the side of his Bentley, [protesters] wrote, 'N***** Lover,' because Robert Kardashian was the genius that put together the defense team that got O.J. [Simpson] off," Kanye explained. "She had never saw her father curse, get mad; he was the most laid-back human being. And he went so crazy and tried to chase the people down. And she stood there crying and said, 'Dad, why are you going so crazy?' And he said to her, 'One day, you may have a black child. A beautiful, beautiful, beautiful black child. And it's going to be hard. You're going to see how hard it is.'"

And so it came to be: the couple's daughter North has already experienced racism at less than 2 years old, when a woman on a plane yelled to the other passengers that Kim needed to "shut that black baby up."

Kanye went on to discuss how important it is to focus on humanity as a group and for black people to use their influence for the betterment of all.

"The 'micro' of it is we focus on the different races as opposed to the 'macro,' which is the human race," he said. Using oil as a metaphor for wealth, he continued, "Our oil is our expression, is our influence. Don't never let them take that away. And when we have the chance to express it and to influence, don't only just do it for us, do it for the human race."

More: Kanye West has a surprising musical partner on his new song "Only One" (VIDEO)

Watch Kanye West's BET Honors speech:

Kanye West BET Honors

Kanye West BET Honors

Tell us: What was your favorite part of Kanye's BET Honors speech?


Today we learned George Zimmerman won't face charges for murder

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In the three years since Trayvon Martin was gunned down by a vigilante wannabe cop, we have learned a lot about this country and our justice system.

We have learned that a 17-year-old black boy followed and then murdered by a man who had no cause to pursue him other than the color of his skin, will be portrayed as a violent thug by news media, by the public and the police.

We have learned that a black man walking down the street can be shot by police for fitting the description of a suspect, his body left in the street for hours before being shoved in the back of an SUV like a sack of garbage. We have learned that after he is killed the police department will engage in an active campaign to destroy the dead man's reputation (including leaking court information to the press) with eager help from conservative media. We have learned that this death is not even deemed worthy of a trial.

We have learned that being black and selling loose cigarettes in the street is a crime punishable by death in New York. We have learned that video of you being choked to death by police will only prove that you are fat, and would have survived the illegal chokehold if only you'd made better dietary decisions. We have learned here as well, that it is ludicrous to expect charges against anybody in this matter, except of course for the man who caused all this ruckus; the videographer of the killing. We have learned that for a mayor to even suggest that there is an issue with how many police treat people of color is an unforgivable betrayal. Doing this will force officers to go on strike, giving people of color a welcome respite from broken window policing, until the police department realizes they have to continue arresting brown people to keep those numbers up.

We have learned that a toy sword used in cosplay becomes a real sword in the hands of a young black man. And while not attacking anyone, it is so dangerous for a young black man to be carrying a toy sword in public that he must be shot in the street. This too, is so obvious that there is no need to bring charges against the shooters.

We have learned that when police raid the wrong apartment and shoot your sleeping child to death, nobody is to blame. The girl's young age of 7 and the fact that she was sleeping are enough to consider charges against the officer who ended her life, but only briefly.

We have learned that 12-year-old boys playing with toy guns in the park will be shot within two seconds of encountering a police officer. We have also learned that if the boy who is shot is your brother, and you arrive on the scene, you will be slammed to the pavement, handcuffed and placed in a cop car to watch your brother bleed. We have learned that here is no need to trouble paramedics by calling them right away; instead it is better to stand over the fading body of the child, considering your options. This is all so obvious that there is, once again, no need to bring charges against the officer.

We have learned that three years of protests, three years of tears, three years of black people's blood in the street have proved one unyielding fact: Black lives do not matter in this country.

More on Trayvon Martin

Today Trayvon Martin would have turned 20
George Zimmerman verdict: Not guilty
Bill Cosby says racism didn't kill Trayvon Martin

Child-shaming over bad grades lands mom in jail for child abuse (VIDEO)

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Mom arrested for abuse

Mom arrested for abuse

Melany Alexander of Brooksville, Florida, was reportedly upset with her daughter's bad grades. She felt her child was making poor choices, focusing more on her friends than on her studies. So, to encourage better decisions, Alexander charted a winning, two-pronged parenting course: First, she allegedly beat her daughter with a metal-and-leather belt. Then she sent her to school in a humiliating T-shirt advertising her faults.

Alexander took a white T-shirt and, using black marker, wrote the following on the front and back:

“My name is ______. I currently have all F's in all of my classes. I am not aloud to have a boyfriend no time soon. So back off before I get another good woopin like I got last night. Also I can no longer have any friends until all of my F's are all brought up to C's and up!!! So unless you are helping me with this goal...back off!!! My eating French fries and being a social butterfly is over because I know why my parents send me to school. I now know the importance of my education. I will learn. I will listen to my teachers and be respectful, at all times. I will do these things because I am failing _____ due to my social life. Want to be my friend :) Help me by not!!!”

mean shirt

Image: My Fox Tampa Bay

The shirt did what Alexander intended — it caught people's attention. Unfortunately for her, the attention was that of the school administrators, who not only noticed the shirt but the bruises and marks all over the child's neck, arms, legs and back. School officials called law enforcement, who interviewed the child and then the mom. Alexander admitted to hitting her daughter because she was failing school, and was immediately arrested.

This entire story is wrought with irony. We have a mom who wants her daughter to be "respectful, at all times" and decides to teach her respect with beatings and bullying.

This trend of publicly shaming kids as a parenting method has to stop. It's narcissistic, cruel and bullying at its worst. Our kids look to us for guidance and comfort, and when we use humiliation as a punishment tactic, we teach them that shaming is to be expected and is OK. Respect isn't learned by fear; it is earned through actions — by both children and parents.

Alexander wanted to teach her daughter a lesson. She actually taught her child two: Her school won't tolerate bullying — even by parents — and if you break the law by beating someone, you're going to go to jail.

More on parenting

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Karlie Kloss is unrecognizable in new androgynous shoot (PHOTO)

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The supermodel was styled in the Comme des Garçons Blood and Roses collection, which, as photographer Rei Kawakubo explains in the mag, is a darker take on what roses usually signify.

"Blood and Roses is the expression of a deeper significance of roses, typically happy and pretty," Kawakubo said. "Often in history the image of the rose was more connected with blood and wars, in relation to political conflict, religious strife and power struggles. This is what was interesting to me this time."

More: Selena Gomez fans are livid over her inappropriate V Magazine cover (PHOTOS)

In the images, Kloss has sort of a nightmarish Little Red Riding Hood thing going on, but it's her androgynous look that made us look twice to make sure that it was really the former Victoria's Secret Angel under those heavy dark sideburns.

More: Miley Cyrus' disturbing V Magazine pics: Is it time for us to finally be concerned?

See for yourself:

Karlie Kloss

Karlie Kloss

Karlie Kloss

Images: Rei Kawakubo/V Magazine, V94

10 Quick and easy make-ahead snacks for the after-school rush

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The after-school rush is a parent's second biggest nightmare of the day, after the early-morning chaos we all would like to forget. One of the best ways to shut a whiny kid up after a frustrating day at school is with delicious, delicious food. Pro tip: This approach works for whiny adults too.

You can throw these satisfying after-school snacks together in less than 5 minutes and still make it to the car pool lane on time.

1. Almond butter and jelly on crackers

Almond butter

Organic almond butter, real-fruit jelly and whole-grain crackers offer a nutritious spin on the kid-favorite PB&J. Add banana slices to make this snack extra filling.

2. Ants on a log

Ants on a log

Image: Jenni Konrad/Flickr

Classic ants on a log is tasty albeit in need of an update. Try this childhood treat with a modern twist: Spread soft cheese on celery, and top with dried cranberries.

3. Apple and peanut butter sandwiches

Apple slices

Image: Pixabay

Layer thin apple slices with peanut butter, sandwich style. This handy snack will keep your kids quiet in the car with minimal mess.

4. DIY lunchables

Lunchable

Thank your past self for keeping a few of these homemade snack boxes in your fridge at all times.

5. Fruit skewers

Fruit skewers

Image: Pixabay

No matter what fruits you choose, fruit skewers are a convenient and delicious way to get those antioxidants.

6. Fruit smoothie

Smoothie

Quick to blend and easy to sip on during homework time — add kale to your kid's fruit smoothie for extra brain power.

7. Homemade trail mix

Trail mix

Image: Vegan Yack Attack!

Trail mix basically means any delicious and nutritious dried goods you can throw together in a pinch. Portion out one of these simple trail mix recipes for an after-school snack.

8. Sandwich roll-up

Pinwheel

Reinvent your typical sandwich into a pinwheel: Start with a tortilla or wrap, spread on cream cheese, add deli meat and condiments, and roll it right up to eat on the run.

9. Yogurt parfait

Yogurt parfait

Once you get your kids home in one piece, they're going to need some protein to tide them over until dinner. This decadent yet healthy organic roasted cherry parfait can double as a snack or after-dinner treat.

10. Vegetable "sushi"

Carrot sticks

Image: Emily/Flickr

Here's a favorite from Martha Stewart's kitchen: Roll raw veggie sticks in a slice of bread, and cut into sushi-like cylinders. Your kids will love this faux sushi — hold the raw fish — served with mustard or ranch dip.

More kids' food

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Idaho lawmaker thinks women's stomachs & vaginas are connected

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I kind of feel bad for Barbieri, to be honest. The man clearly just isn't that smart. And that's fine. But when you are making decisions for a woman's body? Then it's not.

He claims to have been asking a rhetorical question, but the damage is done. According to the Spokesman Review:

Dr. Julie Madsen, who was testifying in opposition to anti-abortion legislation, said no, explaining, “When you swallow a pill, it would not end up in the vagina.”

“Fascinating,” said Rep. Vito Barbieri, a Dalton Gardens Republican and supporter of the bill. “That certainly makes sense, doctor,” he said, amid hoots of laughter from the crowd.

Pretty damning stuff, no?

There is simply no excuse for being so ignorant. On many levels. This man is apparently married. He is a lawmaker, governing both men and women. And he can't discern whether or not a woman's vagina and her stomach are connected? He is getting mocked today, but the scarier truth is that this isn't even close to the first time this has happened.

Apparently, the female anatomy is super confounding for many lawmakers. So what does this mean for us as women? Personally, I think it means we need more women in positions of power. I have never been comfortable going to a male OB-GYN. All my babies were delivered by women midwives and all my health care comes from women. It's just how I feel comfortable. Women know their own bodies. And the only people policing our bodies should be ourselves.

I am not sure how Mr. Barbieri had the children some news outlets are saying he has. Did they grow in his wife's stomach? Did he think they did?

It should be required that every man elected to any higher office be required to read Our Bodies, Ourselves. Or, you know, any man marrying an actual woman. Because, let's face it. I feel sorry for his constituents, but I feel way worse for his wife.

More on women's health

Lawmakers say high school has permission to strip-search students
Fantastic 'tampon commercial' made by men is spot-on (VIDEO)
What your period can tell you about your body

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