Let's be real: Martinis are no joke (even when you make them extra dirty like I always ask for). I can nurse one of them for over an hour and still have trouble finishing it — it's just so strong!

A summer version, however, with sweet peaches and tangy lemonade is a whole different story. These go down like candy (try a sugar rim for even more of a treat) and will be your new favorite summer drink.

Peachy lemonade martini recipe

A fruity summer version of a classic martini. Perfect for sipping in the hot summer weather.

Serves 2

Total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces lemonade
• 1 peach, peeled and roughly chopped
• 4 ounces vodka
• Lemon peel, for garnish
• Sliced peaches, for garnish
• Ice cubes

Directions:

1. In a blender, place the peach, and blend until smooth.
2. Strain the peach juice through a fine mesh strainer, and then add it to a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add the lemonade and vodka to the shaker, and shake until chilled.
4. Strain the drink into 2 martini glasses, and garnish with the lemon peel and peach slices.

More martini recipes

Pomapple martini
Chocolate martini with crushed peppermint rim
Funfetti cake batter martini

Stone posed nude for the new issue of Harper's Bazaar, and the statuesque Oscar nominee is leaving jaws on the floor with her fabulous physique.

More: Naya Rivera bashed for her nearly naked pregnancy pic (PHOTO)

Stone posed nude for the first time in a 1990 issue of Playboy, but she told Bazaar that posing for them at this late date was actually easier mentally and emotionally.

"I'm aware that my ass looks like a bag of flapjacks," she joked. "But I'm not trying to be the best-looking broad in the world. At a certain point, you start asking yourself, 'What really is sexy?' It's not just the elevation of your boobs. It's being present and having fun and liking yourself enough to like the person that's with you. If I believed that sexy was trying to be who I was when I did Basic Instinct, then we'd all be having a hard day today."

More: Chrissy Teigen's barely retouched nudes send body positive message (PHOTO)

But this new age of sex appeal did not come easily. The actress suffered a debilitating brain aneurism in 2001 that cost her her marriage, her health and very nearly her career — but in typical form, she clawed her way back.

"I thought, 'You know what? I got thrown off the bullet train, and now I'm going to have to crawl up a hill of broken glass, get back on the train that's going a million miles an hour and work my way from the cattle car up. That's just the way it is, so I'd better get humble and shut the f*** up and do the job. Because if I can't do this job, I'm certainly not going to be able to do anything else.'"

Except nude model. She seems to be pretty great at that.

This topic is hitting a nerve with some people who believe kids should never come between you and lover. Personally, the less bodies in bed with me the better I sleep, but is pushing them out the answer? Will your relationship with your spouse improve if kids are nestled into the borders instead? The Mommaloguers are weighing in, take a look and let us know where you stand!

Click below for all of our Mommalogues videos!

Doors make parents anxious. They can move and they can slam. They can wake, startle or even hurt babies. They are basically wooden monsters sent to Earth to rob you of your sanity and sleep. The fear is real. The struggle is real.

But rather than taking all doors off their hinges, stacking them in some dark corner and claiming that "an open household is a happy household" when visitors ask why there's nothing separating the toilet from the hallway, solve your problems with a cute DIY fabric door silencer.

Not only is this clever contraption easy to make — just a snip or two, a quick sew and a bit of stuffing and you're done — but it keeps the doors behaving while looking adorable. Win-win.

Supplies:

• Door silencer template
• Pencil
• Fabric
• Elastic, cut into two 13-centimetre pieces
• Fabric scissors
• Pinking shears
• Pins
• Batting
• Sewing machine

Directions:

1. Cut the fabric

Print and cut out the door silencer template. Place two pieces of fabric with the right (pretty) sides touching, trace the template onto them and cut it out.

2. Mark the seam allowance

Pin the two pieces of fabric together. Trim the seam allowance on the paper template and trace it onto the fabric .

3. Pin the elastic

Pin the elastic to the right side of one of the pieces of fabric, facing the loops into the centre and the ends on the points marked on the template.

4. Pin the material

Pin the second piece of material, with the right side facing in, to the top and reposition the pins so that the elastic is sandwiched between the two pieces of material.

5. Sew

Sew along the traced line, leaving a gap as indicated on the template.

6. Trim

Using the pinking shears, trim the seam allowance (leave the material near the gap untouched).

7. Turn inside-out

Using the opening you left in the side, pull the material until you turn the door silencer inside-out.

8. Stuff with batting

Use a bit of batting to evenly stuff the door silencer. Don't get too excited, though; you're not making a cushion — you just want there to be enough to pad the door.

9. Sew and use

Tuck in the opening so that it comes in line with the edge; then sew around the whole door silencer. That's it — now it's ready to use.

More craft ideas

Make your own storage with geometric wall shelves
Paint a pretty watercolour clock
Turn a boring mouse pad into an adorable cat mouse pad with fabric

And now Vieira is making headlines for her unusual accessory this morning. She was sporting a really painful-looking black eye.

She tried to cover up by wearing sunglasses for the fourth hour of the morning show, but finally revealed her reasoning for covering her face was her really bad shiner.

More: Stacey Dash tried to debate with Meredith Vieira on live TV — and failed (VIDEO)

Once revealed, I don't think there was a person who saw it who didn't wince. The story behind it is funny, but kinda scary, too. "If you're going to laugh, I'm not going to tell you [what happened]," Vieira tried saying sternly, but she couldn't hold back her own giggles before launching into the story.

"I had to go to the bathroom and I didn't put the light on. And to get to the bathroom, you go through a little dressing room. And I had just come back form Los Angeles… and the suitcase is black and the room is black — it's dark."

She continued with the story, but we all knew what was coming next. She said, "So I go to the bathroom, and I forget my suitcase is there. And I fell over the suitcase, and I hit my head on the rim of the dressing room table."

Vieira's husband had a good laugh about it, too, and posted about it on his blog. He said, "I am the one in my house who has multiple sclerosis. I am the only one who is legally blind. I have limited depth perception and glance off doorways if I am not careful — and I am very cautious — because my lateral perception also is deficient. Yet I survive because I have learned self-preservation. I am married to a woman who has not."

More: Patricia Arquette passionately defends Bruce Jenner's transition (VIDEO)

He further joked about her lack of grace, saying, "Meredith is a klutz, like a drunken sailor on a bender who collides with stationary objects and is a danger to herself," to which Vieira nodded in agreement and told more stories of her clumsiness.

While it is something we can all chuckle about now, knowing that Vieira is OK, things could have turned out very differently had she hit another part of her head or face. She said, "If it had been a little lower, something could have happened. Something really bad."

We are glad she is OK and hope she recovers quickly!

More: Meredith Vieira reveals #WhySheStayed

As a safety expert, my goal is to empower people with tools and tips to live safely and without fear. I educate about the warning signs that lead up to the events, as well as how to stay safe when out in public.

Here are some things you can do to try to stay safe:

1. Always assess your surroundings when you enter a public place

Know where the exits are, and know who is present. In a crisis situation, your mind may not be able to process how to locate the exits. If you made a mental note in advance of a crisis, you will be able to remember the location and to escape in an emergency.

More: 3 Apps to keep you safe

2. Watch for potential trouble

You are not going to be able to look at people and determine who may cause trouble or an issue, but you will get a sense of who is present, perhaps notice any odd behaviour and allow your instinct to size up the situation. Watch for escalating or potential issues: Is there an angry customer present? Is there an argument brewing? Is someone behaving suspiciously?

3. Listen to your body, and trust your instincts

If you get a bad or weird "vibe" when you are present, listen to your body's warning signals. If your instincts cause a funny feeling in the pit of your stomach or the hairs are standing up on the back of your neck, don't try to determine the source or reason — get out of the situation immediately. All animals in nature have the ability to sense fear. Humans are the only ones who ignore that voice.

4. If danger breaks out when you are present:

• Escape. If you are able to safely get out of the room or space, go quickly and without hesitation.
• Hide. Duck down; hide under something to escape the perpetrator's view.
• Avoid contact. That means eye contact and physical contact. Do not assume that because of specialized training or that you carry a weapon that you are able to take on a perpetrator or shooter.

More: 5 Steps to take to safely track your lost or stolen smartphone

5. The last option is to fight to survive

Use whatever you have to get out alive. Hand-to-hand, a weapon, lethal or non-lethal, etc. Do not instigate or initiate the fight. Only when you are face to face and that is the only way out should fighting become an option.

6. Call for help after you are safe

Do not try to call the police in the midst of the danger; wait until you are in a secure location and safe. Unless you have access to a smartphone app that will allow you to silently press a button to release your location to law enforcement officials, your talking will draw attention to yourself and might possibly make you a target. Your phone conversation is also a distraction for you, and you are not present and focused on the situation at hand and on surviving. Calling for help should only be done after you are safe.

Be on alert and prepared to take safe steps and measures and to defend yourself if need be. Think in a proactive manner, have a safety plan, and you can have freedom.

1. When he revealed how he really felt about Divergent

During an interview with W magazine, Teller didn't mince words when describing his gig in Divergent. "When I first read Whiplash, I was feeling dead inside," he said (yeowch!) after filming the dystopian blockbuster. "I didn't have an interesting part [in Divergent], and I'd taken the film for business reasons: It was the first movie I'd done that was going to have an international audience." Maybe don't bite the hand that feeds. Or, you know, floats you the big bucks.

More: Miles Teller responds to Divergent controversy (VIDEO)

2. When he made John Cusack sound like a chump

I think we can all agree John Cusack is pretty amazing, right? His body of work is undeniably impressive — to most people. Miles Teller is apparently not one of them. "I guess we look alike. We did some similar movies. He wasn't traditionally good looking, who was offbeat and quirky but confident," he said of comparisons to the veteran actor. "I get it. But I don't want his career."

3. When he called Esquire out

So, sure. The writer who profiled Teller for Esquire called him "dickish." However, it seems as though if Teller really read the piece that he would have seen that the writer wasn't necessarily condemning the cocky star. In fact, he calls him charming. He suggests that part of what makes Teller so appealing is his overt machismo and don't-give-a-damn attitude — or, in short, his dickishness. Semantics aside, Teller could have handled the situation a little less, uh, dickishly than by putting the mag on Twitter blast.

More: Miles Teller tried Viagra, visited strip clubs in Vegas

4. When he tried to distance himself from young Hollywood

Teller's vibe is tough, for sure. He comes off as a bit of a lone wolf, particularly in the past when he has spoken of severing ties with his college buddies. But never so much as when he told The New York Times that he wanted to be an actor of his generation... unlike other actors his age. "I feel like a lot of actors of my generation are not proper actors. I want to break out of that whole group of actors in their early 20s and really start to put stuff down that lets you know I take this seriously."

5. When he gave no credit whatsoever to small-town girls

Not surprisingly, Teller's looks came up (again) during his Esquire interview. "I was thinking about that today, how I probably think I'm better-looking than the public thinks I am. I was in one of these forums about a film I did, and it's like 'This dude is so ugly! How does he get f***ing parts?' 'Well, he's not, like, traditionally handsome, but...' And that's kind of what it is. Maybe it's because I came from a small town, but I always did well for myself." OK, so what? Is the implication that girls from small towns have lower standards? Or that there simply aren't as many good-looking people in small towns? Either way, we don't like the inference.

More: Insurgent's Kate Winslet and Miles Teller talk about "vile" Jeanine (EXCLUSIVE)

6. When he nearly came to blows with his director

It's only been five years since Teller landed his first major role, but the actor has already developed something of a reputation in the industry. Again, much like Teller's comments about Divergent, the sarcastic star apparently couldn't hide his dissatisfaction on the set of Fantastic Four — arguably the biggest "commercial" role he's scored to date. Rumor has it he really rubbed director Josh Trank the wrong way, so much so that the two almost came to blows on the set.

The Real Housewives of Orange County stars bicker over anything and everything, the latest being Gunvalson knows Edmonds said Brooks is faking having cancer. Gunvalson went off about it to fans on Twitter and admitted she is trying to get the newest cast member fired after just one season.

More: Meghan Edmonds may be on RHOC for all the wrong reasons

Gunvalson also spent time on the show slamming Edmond's stepmotherhood, accusing her of trying to take over as a mother when her stepdaughter already has one.

Of course, Edmonds fired back with her own shade.

More: RHOC's Meghan King Edmonds slammed for disrespecting her husband's late ex-wife

She elaborated on her blog, "Touching on the stepmother situation with Vicki; you might have noticed I didn't really stand up for myself. Well, sometimes when others project their insecurities on you it's not worth defending, especially after I've defended myself over the same issues over and over to Vicki, who has only interrogated me up to this point.

"For instance, if I tried to convince Aristotle that the world was round he would try to convince me it was flat by using facts and figures and I would not be able to even get him to consider that the world is round. It's the same thing with Vicki. Sometimes you just have to let ignorance go in one ear and out the other and trust that evolution will run its course."

It remains to be seen if Edmonds will be asked back for a second season, but feuds make for good ratings, so we can probably expect news that her contract has been signed any day now.

I've learned a very important lesson this summer, at the prime age of (almost) 27. You never hire a hot nanny. I mean, come on, people! Shouldn't we have learned this lesson when Reese and Ryan's marriage came crashing down, courtesy of their full-time babysitter?

I won't put all the blame on the help; in fact, the fault actually belongs more with the adulterer. "She seduced me" just isn't an excuse. But that isn't the only factor that brought many high-profile and fan-favorite relationships to a screeching halt. It's been a tough summer, my friends, and we've all had to band together in our shock and sorrow to make it through, but the bad news hasn't stopped yet. This week was full of heartbreaking updates on Hollywood's biggest splits.

First up, Ben Affleck is reportedly dropping a pretty penny on his ex-nanny

Sigh. The man who broke a thousand hearts. This divorce hit me the most. I've had a crush on Ben Affleck since I was just a wee one and believed him to be such a good guy, so when news broke of his possible infidelity, I rejected it. "Puh-lease, this is nonsense. Not my Benny-boo." But alas, after this week, I'm starting to believe the nanny stories could be true. After all, why else would you put your ex-employee up at the Hotel Bel-Air for an estimated $12,000 four-night stay? A little fishy, right?

Well, there's still one person who thinks he could be innocent: my naive but oh-so-sweet colleague who wrote a whole article defending Ben Affleck, suggesting he's only indulging Christine Ouzounian in a lavish lifestyle as an apology for all the bad press. I say phooey to that.

More: Jennifer Garner's privacy invaded during an emotional call

Wait, now Tom Brady's following suit?

Now this one I do still vehemently reject. Rumors started swirling this week that Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen could be the summer's next shocking split; not only that, but it's Affleck's ex-nanny who's causing trouble for the two.

Wait a minute... pause: Who is this girl and can someone get her a hobby, stat?

A source told OK! magazine that Brady and Bündchen's relationship has been strained for some time and they're only showing each other social media love to hide their crumbling marriage from the pubic. But where does Christine Ouzounian allegedly fit into it all? Well, you'll have to read to find out.

Adam Levine is trying to hook Blake Shelton up with models

No, no, no, Adam Levine! It has not been long enough for Blake, Miranda or any of their heartbroken fans to move on, but according to OK! magazine, Shelton's costar on The Voice has supposedly been encouraging him to "go out and celebrate." This is the point where I start screaming profanities at my computer with all hopes of Levine hearing me.

Luckily, Shelton's just too much of a stand-up guy for that... he's going to take some alone time before saddling up that horse again.

More: Blake Shelton's reaction to recent affair rumors proves he's had enough

Jake Owen announced the official end of his marriage on Twitter

Stud. That's the first thing I thought when I saw his name on my computer screen, but once I got past his good looks, I was really upset for the guy!

Owen took to Twitter to share the news of his divorce with fans, saying it's the "hardest thing I've ever done in my life." We're not exactly sure what caused the split, but it sounds like no nannies were involved. Hey, when things are bad, you have to look for the positives in life.

Gwen Stefani has returned to The Voice — but not as her spunky, badass self

This celebrity divorce threw us for a loop and it sounds like Stefani is having just as hard of a time. A source told Perez Hilton that while Stefani was back on the set for Season 9's Battle Rounds, she seemed really "sad."

Well... ya. We wouldn't expect anything else, especially since their relationship seemed so perfect to the outside. What makes this even worse is that there were rumors a freaking nanny was involved. Give us a break!

Scott Disick had some quality family time with his kids — sans Kourtney Kardashian

I know I may be in the minority, but I was really rooting for Disick and Kardashian! They had a confusing, sometimes unhealthy and (as some might say) untraditional relationship, but at the end of the day, I actually thought they were a great fit for each other.

As is the trend of summer 2015, they called it quits. When news first hit, Scott Disick was nowhere near his kids; in fact, he was partying with his ex and then supposedly a bevy of teenagers (umm, what?). But this past week, he returned to his doting father duties and shared an adorable video of Mason and Penelope dancing during daddy time. It just would have been that much better had Kourtney been there... acceptance takes time.

Last but not least, Miss Piggy ogled another man

The Kermit and Miss Piggy split was just the cherry on top of the sundae that is apparently poisoned with the demise of celebrity relationships. Luckily, there was no nanny involved with this breakup since our scientific capabilities do not enable pigs and frogs to procreate, therefore eliminating the need for a caretaker, but... I do have a confession to make: I may be to blame.

More: How will Miss Piggy & Kermit's breakup affect The Muppets moving forward?

He has not contacted me since the split or put me up in a swanky, way-better-than-my-subpar-apartment hotel, but ya know... gosh. I just hope I'm not to blame.

Either way, I don't think Miss Piggy would take it too hard. ABC released a new trailer for The Muppets and fans couldn't help but notice she was all about Castle's Nathan Fillion's err... umm... butt.

Which celebrity split do you think has been the most shocking, and more importantly, will you ever hire a hot nanny again?

Just so you know, I'm looking at you with mostly compassion rather than judgment, since I'll totally be in the same boat as you when I drop my daughter off at pre-K for the first time this fall. Here is what we have in store.

More: The best pets for families with small children

1. The meticulous clothing selection

Image: Giphy

Whose first day of school is it anyway, Mama? The amount of energy you've put into helping your child pick out the perfect Frozen tutu is commendable, though.

2. The rush

Image: Giphy

Too much time was spent on the outfit. Out the door, now! You'll be damned if you're the mom who blows it by showing up late on the first day of your child's official education.

3. Angst about the unknown

Image: Giphy

What if she's too young for this? What if you should have waited another year? What if she thinks you've abandoned her? What if everything terrible happens?

More: 3-Year-old receives unbelievable bill for damaging neighbor's car

4. Mom-friend insecurity

Image: Giphy

You're suddenly second-guessing the choice to wear yoga pants to pre-K. What if the other moms are mean girls? What if your child's entire education will be like your personal return to high school?

5. An exploding heart as the kiddo walks away

Image: Giphy

It's time. Your child is walking into class and you think your heart might just explode.

6. One full hour of staring at the wall

Image: Giphy

This is what moms do, apparently, on their child's first day of school. They stare at the wall or drive around aimlessly for at least an hour out of complete confusion about what to do next.

7. Pretending to work all day

Image: Giphy

Once you start working for the day, you just extend the time you spent staring at a wall by pretending to work. A few mouse clicks here and there should do the job.

More: Toddler dunks herself in bucket of paint while mom nurses baby

8. The thrill of afternoon pick-up

Image: Giphy

Three o'clock has never been such a thrill. Time to hear all about the first day of school!

The ladies of Bring It could stand to learn a thing or two from Abby Lee Miller, who constantly warns her students that it's tough to get to the top of the infamous Dance Moms pyramid — and that it's far more difficult to stay there. If Bring It also had a pyramid (fortunately, it doesn't), Crystianna would, at one point, have been at the very top. After all, she's an established performer with an impressive track record. But she arguably gave up that top spot during tonight's episode of Bring It, when she failed to emerge from her comfort zone.

More: Abby Lee Miller's recent weight loss has angered many fans

MaKalah's risk-taking pays off

MaKalah may be young, but she brings plenty of raw talent to the table. Instead of playing it safe, she decided to give it her all during her dance-off. She definitely took a risk with her unorthodox moves, but it paid off — she became the new golden girl!

More: Abby Lee Miller hit an all-time low encouraging shameful behavior

Crystianna versus MaKalah

Fans of Bring It are split pretty evenly among Team Crystianna and Team MaKalah. Many agree that Crystianna needs to kick it up a notch; others are willing to acknowledge the dancer's talent while also pointing out that MaKalah is a real threat. These Twitter followers are especially pro-MaKalah:

A few members of Team Crystianna have been quick to highlight the team's loss, but that's not necessarily MaKalah's fault. If anything, MaKalah's efforts to freshen the team up a bit gave the Dancing Dolls a better chance. Ultimately, however, they were outclassed, as they would have been with anybody else in charge.

Regardless of whether MaKalah was to blame for the Dancing Dolls' loss, it's obvious that her advanced skills and willingness to take risks makes the others uncomfortable — and, thus, eager to put in a little more effort to prove that they can bring just as much to the table. Crystianna obviously knows what she's doing, but when you're on top, it's easy to get too comfortable. Hopefully, MaKalah's impressive performance will serve as the kick in the butt Crystianna needs to ensure that she remains a top Dancing Doll.

More: DWTS insider reveals future for Kaitlyn Bristowe and Caitlyn Jenner

Photos courtesy of Lifetime.

Which dancer did you find more impressive during tonight's episode of Bring It: MaKalah or Crystianna? Join the conversation and share your opinion!

I love to use puff pastry for tarts because it takes zero effort and can be cooked in about 30 minutes. Plus it's great with juicy ripe tomatoes and lots of fresh summer basil.

This beauty made a perfect lunch but it would be great as an appetizer, side dish or light summer dinner.

Easy 3-cheese tomato basil tart recipe

This simple puff pastry tart combines three delicious cheeses plus fresh summer tomatoes. You'll love this flavorful dish.

Serves 4

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, defrosted
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons shredded Asiago cheese
• 1-2 tomatoes, sliced thin
• Fresh cracked pepper
• Olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Place puff pastry sheet onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Fold up about a 1/2-inch of the pastry on the sides and poke the bottom of the tart with a fork.
4. Bake for about 12 minutes until the pastry starts to puff and get slightly golden.
5. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the top with half of each cheese, the tomato slices, the remaining cheese, and finally, the black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.
6. Bake for about 12-13 minutes until the cheese is melted and the pastry is golden-brown.
7. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with basil and serve warm.

More savory tart recipes

Heirloom tomato galette
Leek and onion tart
Tomato tart

According to famed Yogi and healthy living activist Rainbeau Mars, author of the 21 Day SuperStar Cleanse, there is nothing controversial about feeding dogs raw foods and shunning the junk ingredients commonly found in commercial dog food. "Cleanses aren't necessary in nature, but we've gotten so far away from how we'd eat in the wild," she explains. "Many popular dog food brands use fillers and ingredients we wouldn't feed our worst enemies, so we can't be surprised when our beloved pets fall sick."

Mars recently headed up a 14-Day Family Health Challenge, which invited families and their pets to detox their diet. The guidelines included avoiding factory farmed products, white sugar and flour, fried and fast foods, and chemicals while eating plenty of nutrient-dense organic vegetables, fruits, whole grains, proteins and vegan or raw foods. What does this mean for your dog?

Mars' recommendation:

• 75 percent of your dog's diet be comprised of organic animal produce such as raw wild salmon or raw bison
• 25 percent of your dog's diet be comprised of some type of vegetable, such as squash or carrot
• Experiment with other raw or vegan sources of food such as coconut, quinoa, nuts and other foods dogs would find in the wild

Mars collaborates with Dr. Roger Valentine, a holistic pet and human health expert in Southern California, who encourages the canine cleanse and for pet owners to clean up their pets' diet. "It's best if animals are raised the way they would be in the wild," he explains. "Yes, they need protein, but it doesn't need to come from a can. We could instill longer, healthier lives for our pets if we paid more attention to how we treat and feed them."

Participants in the 14-Day Family Health Challenge report that their dogs have less anxiety, more energy and healthier coats. The purported long-term effects of a canine cleanse are increased health, disease prevention, higher quality of pet life and fewer vet bills.

Actress Shannon Elizabeth, who is vegan, has her pack of tail waggers on a cleanse protocol and can't imagine feeding them any other way. She says, "I like to feed my kids (dogs) in a way that simulates how they would eat in the wild. So many diseases pets get don’t exist in nature and only came about with the invention of processed dog foods. It might cost a little more to feed them this way, but it pays for itself in the lack of vet bills many times over, especially as they get older." Other celebrities who are all for the canine cleanse include Alison Eastwood, Travis Barker and Woody Harrelson.

However, not everyone is on board with a doggy detox diet.

Dr. Benjamin Savard, DVM, head veterinarian at the Raintree Pet Resort and Medical Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, isn't in favor of Mars' canine cleanse regimen.

"First of all, I don't think it's necessary for a dog's health," Dr. Savard says. "The purpose of a cleanse for people is to cleanse out toxins that have built up due to a poor diet, and there is no hard and fast research on dogs that cleanses are beneficial."

There is also a risk of nutritional deficiencies that can occur if pet owners don't have adequate knowledge about the nutrients that dogs need. But malnourishment isn't the vet's most concerning issue with the canine cleanse. "My biggest concern is that this particular protocol recommends giving raw meats to their pets," he states. "Raw meats can be deadly for people and the same can be said for dogs. In particular, raw beef, poultry, pork or fish can cause illness due to parasites, E. coli and salmonella." Even the highest quality raw products can be a health risk for dogs.

Dr. Savard says if you are going to put your dog through a canine cleanse, avoid raw meats and make sure that all animal products are cooked properly. He also recommends contacting a veterinarian who specializes in canine nutrition to make sure that you include adequate proportions and the best balance of foods to ensure your dog doesn't suffer from nutritional deficiencies.

Whether or not you decide to put your dog through a canine cleanse, Dr. Savard says that feeding your dog a high-quality dog food, such as Science Diet, will give your best furry friends all they need for optimal nutrition and health.

More on your dog's health

6 Common dog ailments every owner should know
Canine health risks that lurk at the dog park
Signs and symptoms of pet cancer

Chocolate bacon cookies

Ingredients:

• 6 rashers bacon
• 100 grams brown sugar
• 60 grams dark chocolate drops or flakes
• 150 grams unsalted butter, softened
• 150 grams sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
• 3 drops almond essence
• 250 grams flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 150 degrees C and place baking paper or aluminium foil on a baking tray.
2. Cut the bacon into one-inch pieces. Pour the brown sugar into a small bowl and then dip each piece of bacon into it, ensuring that it is well coated. Place the sugared bacon slices on the baking tray.
3. Place another piece of aluminium foil on top and allow to bake for 20 minutes — or until the sugar has melted and the bacon starts turning golden. Take it out of the oven and allow it to dry and harden.
4. In a medium bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. Add the egg as well as the vanilla and almond essences and beat until well combined.
5. Add the flour and baking powder and mix slowly until the mixture begins to form into thick dough. Cut up the bacon into even smaller pieces and add it and the chocolate to the mixture. Use your hands to lightly knead the dough until well combined.
6. Flour a surface, pop the dough down and roll it out to about half-a-quarter inch in width. Use the printable template (or your own abilities) to cut out two "D"s and one "A". Make extra letters as well as fun shapes — such as hearts — until you've used up all of the dough.
7. Place the cookies into a container lined with baking paper, ensuring they're flat and level, and stick them in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This will help the dough to set and should prevent the cookie from growing too much while baking.
8. Preheat the oven to 170 degrees C. Once your cookies have chilled, lay them out onto a baking tray and bake for 10-20 minutes. Check on them often because they can burn easily. You'll know when they're done when they start turning golden. When the time is right, pull them out, allow them to cool and then present them to Dad so he knows how special he is.

More bacon recipes

Turn Dad's dinner into a bacon bonanza
Bacon apple pie recipe
Boozy bacon recipes

This chowder has so much going for it because it's made with such rich and tasty ingredients. Half the battle with making this wonderful chowder is not to snack on the ingredients. Don't be like me where you have to make more bacon because of snacking on a few too many pieces.

And then there's the grilled corn. When it's cut off the cob in those big clumpy pieces, boy is it ever easy to snack on.

No matter if it's sunny, rainy or snowy out, this is a perfect meal to make on any day. Just remember to treat yourself and put on those fuzzy slippers, sit back, and relax while enjoying a big bowl of this heavenly chowder.

Slow cooker grilled corn, roasted garlic and bacon chowder recipe

Thick and creamy grilled corn chowder made in a slow cooker with roasted garlic and bacon topped with crispy bacon, more grilled corn and parsley.

Serves 2

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 6 hours, 45 minutes | Total time: 7 hours, 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 ears of corn on the cob, shucked and roasted on the barbecue
• 1 garlic bulb
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 32 ounces chicken broth
• 8 pieces of bacon, chopped and cooked until crispy (1/2 for the chowder, 1/2 for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 medium-size potatoes, peeled and chopped in small pieces
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 3/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Lay a piece of foil out flat and put the bulb of garlic in the middle. Top with olive oil.
3. Wrap the foil around the garlic to form a "tent" and bake in the oven until the garlic is soft and is lightly browned (about 45 minutes). Remove from the oven and let cool.
4. While the garlic is roasting in the oven, in the middle of a large bowl, lay a small bowl upside down.
5. Prop an ear of roasted corn in the middle of the upside down bowl and carefully cut the corn off of the cob so that it falls into the bottom of the large bowl.
6. Repeat with the remaining ears of corn.
7. From the cut corn, reserve about a 1/2 cup of the larger "clumps" of corn to use for garnish later. Set these pieces aside.
8. In a slow cooker, add the remaining corn (from the large bowl), chicken broth, bacon (that is just for the chowder), butter, potatoes, onion, celery, half-and-half, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir together.
9. Once the garlic has cooled enough to handle, lay it on a plate and remove each clove from the bulb.
10. On each clove of garlic, lay the back of a spoon and slightly push down to squeeze out the roasted garlic. Add all of the roasted garlic to the slow cooker. Stir together.
11. Set the slow cooker on the 6-hour setting, cover and cook.
12. After 6 hours, use a potato masher to gently mash the ingredients in the slow cooker. The corn and bacon should stand up to the masher while the potatoes should soften just enough to thicken up the chowder.
13. Taste the chowder to see if more salt is needed.
14. Serve hot and top with parsley, the remaining bacon and pieces of roasted corn.

More chowder recipes

Pesto corn chowder
Cheesy asparagus chowder
Slow cooker carrot, parsnip and potato chowder

Your dog trainer can't…

1. Train your dog for you

This isn't some kind of intensive celebrity weight-loss center where your dog goes for a few weeks to learn new habits and emerges more obedient and knowing how to be obedient for the rest of its life. You don't just drop your dog off and get it back "well-behaved." Sure, the dog will be trained when it comes back home, but that training may slowly disappear, or it may develop bad habits because you do the wrong things (or don't know how to speak to your dog in "its language"). Whether you realize it or not, part of what a dog trainer is doing during training classes is training you. Kinda makes you wonder why the trainer doesn't toss you a mini candy bar when you get something right, huh?

2. Fix your dog

If your dog has actual behavioral issues, that's not a job for a dog trainer. He or she can certainly do some "retraining" lessons if your dog's sitting reaction has gotten a bit spotty, but when it comes to things like anxiety, sudden peeing indoors or unusual (especially aggressive) behavior, or if it seems like there's a behavioral reason it won't take to a certain "trick," it's time to get a behaviorist involved.

A behaviorist is specially trained. We recommend looking for an official Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist or an Associate Certified Animal Behaviorist, and both will have very specialized training to help you and you dog work past what's causing the issue. Now, a behaviorist can't "fix your dog" either — it requires hard work for both you and your pooch, but the good news is that a responsible trainer will be up front with you if your dog has an issue that requires a behaviorist.

3. Change your dog's personality

Dogs are people, too. Well, not actually people, but just like people, they have their own personalities. A trainer can help you teach your dog what is appropriate behavior (vs. inappropriate behavior) in certain situations, but your energetic dog won't stop being energetic. In fact, the trainer should recommend that you give it plenty of exercise, so you don't run into problems when pent-up energy is causing a problem. Conversely, if you have a laid-back dog, your trainer can't teach it to be more energetic just because you want a pup you can run with. That's why it's important to take your time when you're searching for a dog and spend time with the animal before you bring it home.

Your dog trainer can…

1. Show you how to teach your dog to obey

Training schedules will vary but generally, depending on whether you join a group class or get individual lessons, you'll have about hour-long sessions in which you'll be taught skills like teach your dog to sit, stay, let go of items, heel, etc. You need to pay attention because your dog may need "continuing education" at times, whether it's because it has developed bad habits, thanks to you temporarily ignoring your training, or because it's a bit strong-willed and testing the boundaries with you.

2. Teach your dog "silly" tricks

Like roll over, shake, speak and more.

3. Provide agility training (and other canine sports)

While not all trainers offer agility training, it can be a fun way for you and your dog to bond, as well as a great source of exercise for your pet (and you to a certain extent). You don't have to be a competitive agility team to have fun doing it. You can also find trainers for Frisbee and water sports.

4. Provide "nose works" training

Again, not all trainers are qualified to provide this training but some are, and they aren't only available to police or military K-9s. Chances are, your pup will never use these skills to save lives or track down a missing person (though I guess you never know when it could come in handy when the local bloodhound is vacationing in Cabo), but many dogs find these games to be a fun challenge. Think of it as doggie video games. You're not really a sniper, but you still love Fallout 3, right?

5. Provide pet boarding

Some trainers may even provide boarding services for owners who are going on vacation. Just don't confuse this boarding with a good excuse to get out of the training on your part. Refer to No. 1 in the things trainers can't do. But at least if you board with a trainer, you know he or she is not undoing your work.

More dog care tips

Why you shouldn't let your dog put its head out the window
Last week I put my dog down — here’s what it really feels like
Car safety advice for dogs that every pet parent should know

More: 8 Things to know about Cody Walker, Paul Walker's brother

Late actor Paul Walker was honored during Sunday's Teen Choice Awards by his Fast and Furious co-stars, especially his close friend, Vin Diesel.

"I can't stand here and be rewarded like this without talking about somebody very, very, very important to us," Diesel said as the audience exploded into loud cheers.

He continued, "One of the best blessings in our lives is the fact that we have the opportunity to call Paul our brother. Paul Walker is here in spirit with us."

More: Paul Walker's daughter posts sweetest throwback pic of her dad (PHOTO)

And he ended his visibly emotional tribute with a shoutout to someone special in the audience: Paul Walker's daughter, Meadow.

"And since this is a Teen Choice Award," Diesel continued, "there is one teen in the audience that is a part of the family that kept us going. It's Paul Walker's family — his brothers, his parents — that kept us encouraged when we were filming Furious 7. But there's one very, very special teen here, and her name is Meadow Walker. I love all of you."

Check out the full speech below, including the moment Paul Walker is announced as the winner of the 2015 Choice Movie Actor Award.

More: Paul Walker's daughter shares heartbreaking Father's Day pic of her dad (PHOTO)

Did you watch the Teen Choice Awards? What did you think of Vin Diesel's tribute to his friend and co-star, Paul Walker? Head down to the comments and share your thoughts with us.

More on horoscopes

Weekly love horoscopes: Aug. 17–23

{pageBreak}

It will be hard to believe the dramatic about-face in people's behavior — especially with those whom you've been on the outs with. One day they're impossibly volatile and combative, and the next they're incredibly agreeable, peace loving and willing to do whatever it takes to mend bridges and make amends. What's up? You have the Venus/Uranus trine on Aug. 19 to thank for this eleventh hour conversion. This can signal a time when the clouds part and people suddenly see the light. Be smart and have those release forms, court documents and/or power-of-attorney papers ready to sign.

Next: Taurus horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

You're feeling overburdened and underpaid. It's to be expected when the sun is squaring Saturn in the sky (Aug. 21). You'll want to go in and have a talk with your supervisor about less hours and/or more money, but you might as well skip it because it won't be happening. Things are pretty non-negotiable when you have Saturn bearing down on you like this. Do your job and make the extra effort without calling attention to it. It may seem like an exercise in futility, but your work ethic will be amply rewarded after Labor Day.

Next: Gemini horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

Why are you hesitating now that you're close to getting what you want? Geminis (like Virgos) have an aversion to seeing things through to the end — even if that means fulfillment. It's a comfort level thing, and it comes from years of needing to locate the nearest exits, escape clauses and loopholes in case you have to make a quick getaway. Unfortunately, you wind up focusing more on how to get out of something rather than on how to get in. Change your mindset. You may discover there's more to the pursuit of happiness than pursuit. It's called happiness.

Next: Cancer horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

You may be taken aback when a project suddenly goes kaput on Aug. 21. One day it was all systems go and the next? Pfft. Obviously, you have no choice but to move on, but don't worry about this being any sort of comment on you or your job performance. Somebody somewhere pulled the plug for reasons you may never know and which have nothing to do with you. Meanwhile, you will see another assignment appear on Aug. 26. This will prove to be a much better fit and will show you off in the best possible light.

Next: Leo horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

You're having a hell of a time trying to sell yourself to clients, buyers, customers and even Twitter followers these days. So do you reinvent? Pour on more razzle-dazzle? Actually, this might be a good time to stop, look and listen to what people have to say about you, but don't limit this to your inner circle of friends who will say that nothing's wrong. Make a point of talking to people you know aren't squarely in your corner. They may not tell you what you want to hear, but they'll tell you what you need to hear.

Next: Virgo horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

Don't sign on the line that's dotted. It won't be easy because you feel like it's now or never when it comes to sealing the deal, making a big purchase or landing that desirable client. But the first quarter moon in Scorpio on Aug. 22 shows that it's time to go on a furtive fact-finding mission because the other party hasn't been all together forthcoming. Stitching together the real story puts you in an advantageous position to lock in more favorable terms. The end result will be a much better dotted line to sign after Labor Day weekend.

Next: Libra horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

You should want for nothing when it comes to your career, home and finances. However, you can't escape this feeling that these accomplishments don't really belong to you. Maybe you got the promotion because you were next in line and not because your superior thought you were right for the job. Or maybe your prosperity is based on your spouse's earnings and not on yours. These sorts of insecurities always come up when the sun squares Saturn (Aug. 21), but don't get down on yourself about it. After all, isn't it better to have than to have not?

Next: Scorpio horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

There's nothing wrong with aiming high as long as you know what you're truly capable of. Sometimes people think that they can get by on bluster and attitude, but that won't be the case when the sun forms a square to Saturn this week. If there's any cosmic energy that will cut people down to size, it's Saturn. Rule of thumb? If you've overreached, then you will get your hand smacked down on the 21st. If not? Then chances are you were too modest and you will get some not-so-subtle hints to raise your sights even higher.

Next: Sagittarius horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

You have every reason to expect the best with Venus in Leo bringing a bump to your approval ratings. If there was ever a time to ask for the moon in terms of a job interview or raise, then it would be from Aug. 19 to Aug. 26. This is one of the few times when you will have the opportunity to make a living doing what you love to do rather than doing the things you feel like you have to do in order to make ends meet. Set your sights high and you can't miss.

Next: Capricorn horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

We were all born with a sense of wonder. It's what keeps us from becoming cynical and jaded. However, each of us has to find a way to nurture that wonder and that's by embracing the spirit of discovery that leads us down new and unexpected paths. Now this isn't something that Capricorns do easily. You often worry about the time involved or the money that it will cost, but do something daring and let yourself pursue a far-fetched idea or tangent this week. You never know what brave new world lies waiting for you beyond the next bend.

Next: Aquarius horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

Your control-freak tendencies will be working overtime as the sun approaches its square to Saturn on Aug. 21. Aquarians are champions of free speech and equal rights. You believe that everyone should get a chance to speak his or her mind, but that won't be happening this week as you shush critics and shoot icy glares at dissenting colleagues. You'll say that you're doing this in everyone's best interests, but isn't that what all dictators say? Something to think about while the room grows silent. Thankfully, the effect is temporary, and your social conscience returns by Aug. 26.

Next: Pisces horoscope

Back to directory

{pageBreak}

Coworkers aren't wrong when they point out that you haven't been pulling your own weight lately. Now admittedly, you've had a lot of things on your platter, and you thought that keeping things to yourself was a sign of professionalism. And it is. Kind of. But when you start to miss deadlines and don't explain why, then you can wind up giving the impression that you're either oblivious or that you just don't care. Come clean on Aug. 21 about what's been going on. Not only will you get a sympathetic hearing, but people will happily lend a hand.

Back to directory

The new Nick Viall?

The world really doesn't need another reason to hate Joe Bailey. After all, he made fun of poor Juelia Kinney's kissing and intelligence. But Joe became even more of a villain during tonight's episode of Bachelor in Paradise, as fans of the show quickly learned that he has way more in common with Nick Viall than he cares to admit.

More: Bachelor in Paradise fans take their hatred for Ashley I. way too far

The big difference between Joe and Nick? Fans of Bachelor Nation hate Joe way more — to the point that he is nearly as much a victim of cyberbullying as Kaitlyn. Then again, he's no angel, so he shouldn't be surprised by the current vitriol on Twitter.

Definitely in denial

Although many stars from Bachelor Nation have been lucky enough to immediately have sparks fly with their fellow reality stars (ahem, Kaitlyn and Shawn), it's pretty easy to tell when a prior relationship is in play. Based on Joe's awkward response to Jared's questions about his relationship with Samantha, it's obvious that he has something to hide. Not to mention, Joe told Tanner Tolbert that he talked to Samantha before becoming the top villain on Bachelor in Paradise.

More: Joe Bailey attracts Twitter hate with 3 jerk moves

At least Nick managed to be honest about his prior relationship with Kaitlyn. Joe's perfectly happy to be honest when he's accusing Juelia of being a bad kisser, but honesty evidently doesn't matter when he feels the need to save face in front of the guys.

Everybody hates Joe — even Samantha

A ton of people have expressed their extreme dislike of Joe Bailey on Twitter, including multiple alums from The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. This week, Joe's haters are all talking about his hardcore hypocrisy. And Bachelor in Paradise fan favorite Michelle Money is joining in on the fun!

Interestingly enough, Samantha also has plenty to say about her alleged pre-Bachelor in Paradise spark with Joe. She even crafted a clever poem and shared it on Twitter.

Does this mean that Samantha and Joe are already toast? Fans sure hope that the answer is a resounding yes!

More: 4 Reasons to love Bachelor in Paradise's Ashley Iaconetti

Photos courtesy ABC

Do you think Joe Bailey chatted up Samantha Steffen before he was on Bachelor in Paradise? Does that make him a huge hypocrite? Join the conversation and share your opinion below!

According to gynecologist Dr. Christine O'Connor, Director of Well-Woman and Adolescent Care at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, it's common for women to visit her office with a range of vaginal complaints. She says that many of these complaints can easily be managed with a little know-how — you just have to know what you're dealing with first.

1. Vaginal infection

If you have a vaginal infection, you'll know it exists by the uncomfortable symptoms that accompany it. "I'd say that the most common complaints in my practice are rashes, irritation, abnormal discharge and abnormal odor," O'Connor said. Instead of existing as separate complaints, these symptoms can be lumped into a grouping for vaginal infection, since O'Connor explains that irritation, odor and discharge are most typically signs of yeast or bacterial infection.

Your type of infection will determine the ease of its remedy. "Yeast infections are normally very itchy, can cause external redness and have a thick cottage cheese discharge," O'Connor said. Bacterial infections, on the other hand, come with milder irritation and abnormal odor. You can treat your yeast infection with any number of over-the-counter remedies, but you'll need to see your doctor for a prescription if you suspect a bacterial infection.

2. Recurrent infections

Here's another delightful complaint. In case a vaginal infection isn't terrible enough, try getting them recurrently. "Most infections will cause a disruption in the natural flora and pH balance of the vagina," O'Connor explained. "Supplements and probiotics can help reduce the frequency of infections."

For women who are very sensitive to fluctuations in their pH balance, recurrent infections can ensue — and sometimes as a nightmarish pendulum from bacterial infections to yeast infections and back again.

3. Vaginal pain

According to O'Connor, it's also common for women to complain of vaginal pain and discomfort that is not caused by a vaginal infection. The source of this pain is not always as simple to identify as a bacterial or yeast infection. If vaginal pain doesn't quickly resolve on its own, you will likely need to go to your doctor to determine its source. It could be something as simple as pain during intercourse due to dryness, or it could signal something more serious like pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis or an STI.

O'Connor suggested that you make note of the circumstances in which you feel vaginal pain before your appointment so that your doctor can find its cause more easily.

4. Vaginal dryness

"A common complaint in older patients is dryness and discomfort from menopause," O'Connor said. Dryness can cause baseline vaginal pain, which is then amplified during sexual intercourse. If your dryness is causing pain during sex, you can try a silicon- or water-based lubricant to keep things slippery. But if your dryness is a constant sore spot, you can try a vaginal moisturizer. You only need to apply the moisturizer once every three days to relieve dryness.

"If you try an over-the-counter remedy with no relief, then you should talk to your medical professional to determine if there is a different problem you need to be evaluated for, or a different treatment to try," she said.

Of course, and new vaginal issue should be evaluated by a doctor. But there is something you can do keep things in check. Restore balance to your natural vaginal pH by using an at-home balancing product like RepHresh vaginal gel.

This post was brought to you by the makers of RepHresh™ and Replens™ brands.

More about women's health

Woman's tattoos cause doctors to remove her reproductive organs
14 Dazed things you will say on your period
New moms can get IUD right after giving birth, says science