Brazilian MMA fighter Kinberly Novaes recently realized she had won her title belt in a fight at 12 weeks pregnant. Although it may not sound safe, the mom-to-be didn't know she was fighting with a bun in the oven.

As she told told MMAFighting.com, it took until she was well into her second trimester for her to figure out there was something strange going on with her body. When she had a hard time dropping weight for her upcoming fight scheduled on Aug. 21, 2015 — even after strict dieting — she booked an appointment with her doctor.

Novaes wasn't prepared for the "knockout" news she received: The straw weight Brazilian fighter was six months pregnant with a baby boy. "We did a morphology ultrasound last week, and the doctor said I'm 24 weeks pregnant, almost six months, and my baby is healthy and strong," explained Novaes.

More: Pregnant mom does a flawless 'Thriller' dance on her due date (VIDEO)

This put Novaes's big win on May 17, 2015, in a whole new light: She won the Noxii 115-pound title against Renata Baldan when she was 12 weeks pregnant. Novaes said that while she had been feeling sick and tired with headaches and cramps for quite some time, she was too stubborn to go to the doctor. She's happy to report that her baby is fine, even after two trimesters of hard training, fighting and dehydration.

More: 5 Important tips for exercising while pregnant

Novaes's news turns everything we know about conventional pregnancy advice on its head. The moment you pee on a stick, which for many women is right after the first missed period, you're expected to live in a bubble — don't drink alcohol, don't drink coffee, avoid soft cheeses and sushi, don't even think about taking a hot bath and basically don't do anything fun that you once enjoyed doing.

And then we have an MMA fighter who kicked someone's ass in her first trimester like it was no big deal. While no doctor would ever sanction a pregnant-lady fistfight, the American Academy of Pediatrics endorses running and jogging during pregnancy for women who aren't experiencing complications. Physical activities with a high fall risk, like skiing and high impact aerobics, are discouraged. You can probably guess that the AAP thinks contact sports during pregnancy are a terrible idea.

More: Prenatal exercises for a smooth delivery and fast recovery

It's always important to discuss any physical activity during pregnancy with your doctor to make a decision you're comfortable with. But this pregnant fighter's story challenges our traditional view of pregnant women. A woman's body, designed to carry and push out a baby, is a wonderful thing, and it's capable of much more than we give it credit for.

Of course, not every pregnant woman is going to jump in the ring and win a title, but there are pregnant women out there moving their bodies every day — like the pregnant Olympian who completed a race six weeks before her due date or the all-American swimmer who swam the 30-mile English Channel at 11-weeks pregnant. This should be all the proof we need that pregnant women aren't so fragile. Maybe it's time we stop treating them with kid gloves.

I tell them that if they want peace of mind, they need to develop what I would now call a yogic mind-set so that when things happen they’ll be able to take them less personally. Of course, it’s pretty challenging when a person’s professional value is based entirely on her physical body; eventually, models start to believe that we are these "shells" — the specifications on our model cards. Along with the photo, mine was printed with these words: Height 5' 9."; Bust 34, Waist 24, Hips 34; Shoes 9; Dress Size 4; Hair, honey-blond; Eyes, blue-green. One card added, "Excellent legs."

For a long time, I lived on an emotional seesaw, exhilarated if I got a booking and despondent if I didn't. I was obsessed with getting a Guess? jeans campaign — I don't know why I wanted it so badly, but I'd go to the annual casting and come home and recite Hail Marys as I listened to the messages on my answering machine. I never did get a Guess? campaign.

More: Why I don't teach my kids the word 'fat'

Another time I was on a modeling job in New Orleans and was angry that I was getting the shitty light and the shitty clothes compared to the other models on the shoot. I was sitting in the trailer eating peanut M&M's and feeling sorry for myself. At one point, I went into a bathroom in a nearby bar (I hated the tiny bathrooms in the motor home) and noticed a bumper sticker on the wall that said, "Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you respond to it." It was like getting hit with the stick by the Zen master: If I was wallowing in self-pity, then that was my choice.

Life is full of acceptance and rejection. Unfortunately, many of us focus on the rejection. Yoga tells us it's more useful to practice swaha, the idea of which is do the best you can, and let go of the rest. Tibetan Buddhists often translate swaha as "so be it." Swaha is the rudder that can help us maintain equilibrium.

By 1987, I had reached the advanced age of twenty-eight. I was aging out of the "middle" level at my agency, but I wasn't quite ready for the "elite" division. One day, the agency asked me to come into the office for a meeting. After I sat down, I was very matter-of-factly told that it would be a good idea for me to get breast implants and to get my teeth capped so they would be whiter and bigger.

More: The body image video that will bring you to tears

Models almost always do what we're told. The agency made an appointment for me with a dentist. As he explained the teeth-capping procedure — he was going to file my teeth down to small stubs and place permanent caps over them — I flashed back to Mom and Dad sitting at the dining-room table figuring out which bills to pay. My braces had been one of the expenses that took priority, and my mom had been incredibly proud of my teeth.

That was it. I didn't get my teeth or my tits done. Instead, I switched agencies and eventually found my way to the Ford Modeling Agency, which wasn't as sexy or trendy and didn't focus as much on the hip editorial jobs. At Ford, with my new bookers Jill Perlman and Patty Sinclair, I was proud to be reborn as a "catalogue queen."

And that's what I became best known for. Over the past thirty years, I've worked for Chadwicks of Boston, Talbots, Sundance, Avon Fashion, Brownstone Studio, Spiegel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s, Bloomingdale's, J. Jill, Roaman’s and Lane Bryant, among others. I always approached the jobs with the same respect and professionalism as I had for the top fashion magazines.

Truthfully, I'm most proud of the work I did between the ages of forty-eight and fifty-two, which included nearly every Eileen Fisher campaign. In a culture that worships youth, I admire Eileen for embracing beauty in women my age. It sends a powerful message to the world. Eileen is a yogi herself. She told me she booked me because I was "in my body" and I "knew who I was."

Buy the full copy of Yoga for Life here.

Next page: 4 Yoga poses that teach confidence and strength

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This sequence, predominantly standing poses, will help build the stability, strength, and courage to stand on your own two feet and to find confidence in the beauty and grace of your body. Recently, a seventy-year-old diva of a woman in my class demonstrated Crow Pose. Everyone was exhilarated and inspired. I asked her afterward what she gets from her yoga practice, and she said with a sly smile, "I love being able to do stuff that people half my age can't do."

1. Mountain Pose (tadasana)

Stand at the front of your mat with your feet together and your arms alongside your body, palms facing inward. Feel the strength of your legs as your feet ground, and draw energy up along your inner legs from your inner arches to the pelvic floor to the light and easy expanse of your chest. Concentrate on balancing your head directly over the center of your chest. Gaze softly over the tip of your nose to a spot on the floor six feet in front of you. Hold for 5 breaths.

2. Volcano Pose (urdhva hastasana)

From Mountain, inhale and reach your arms actively up alongside your ears. Soften your neck and reach your arms higher to lengthen your waist and hollow your belly. Stay in the pose for 5 breaths.

3. Triangle Pose (trikonasana)

Stand at the front of your mat and step to the right so that your feet are 3 to 4 feet apart. Inhale as you raise your arms up and out, parallel to the floor. Turn your left foot in 15 degrees and your right foot out 90 degrees. Inhale, lift your chest, then exhale and extend your torso to the right over the plane of your forward leg. Press your right hand on your right shin, a block, or the floor just outside your right foot. Lift your left arm straight up toward the ceiling. As you did in Mountain, root your feet to strengthen your legs and draw energy up from the inner ankles, first to the pelvic floor, then through the top of the sternum. Align your head with your heart center, and turn your upper torso to the left while pushing strongly into your right hand. Stay for 5 breaths. Press down firmly on your left big toe to initiate the lift of your torso, and come to stand on an inhale. Change sides and repeat.

4. Extended Side Angle Pose (utthita parshvakonasana)

Turn your left foot in 15 degrees, your right foot out 90 degrees. Exhale and bend your right knee to 90 degrees, knee directly over your heel, thigh parallel to the floor. Exhale and lower your torso toward your front thigh. Press your right hand to the floor outside of your right foot and reach your left arm up and alongside your ear.

If you can't reach the floor easily, support your hand on a block outside the foot or press your elbow on your thigh.

Ground the outside of your left foot into the floor. Turn your upper torso to the left and hold for 5 breaths. Press down through your left big toe to come up to stand. Repeat on the other side.

While Cruz was grilling pork chops, Page grilled him.

The duo got into a verbal back-and-forth about both LGBT issues and religious liberty.

Page asked Cruz to expound on his thoughts about the LGBT community being afraid because religious liberty has, in the past, been used to justify things such as segregation. He responded, “Well, what we’re seeing right now, we’re seeing Bible-believing Christians being persecuted for living according to their faith."

More: Seth Myers third-degree burns Ted "world is on Fire" Cruz (VIDEO)

Page didn't believe he said that any more than I do, and she countered by saying, "For discriminating against LGBT people?" He shook his head in disagreement. She also asks the GOP candidate if he would use the same argument if he were discussing segregation.

The Juno actress had cut Cruz off with this comments, so he responded, "Now, I'm happy to answer your question, but not to have a back-and-forth debate."

He continued, "No one has the right to force someone else to abandon their faith and their conscience. Imagine, hypothetically, you had a gay florist and imagine two evangelicals wanted to get married and they decided, 'You know what, I disagree with your faith and I don't want to provide flowers.'"

More: Ellen Page and coming out in America

Page asked how he felt about the legality of gay and transgender people in America being persecuted for their lifestyle.

He balked and didn't answer the question again, but went back to the Christians being persecuted party line. He went even further to say that he believed that there is a "liberal intolerance" of anyone who wants to live by faith and that they should promptly be put out of business.

One thing they did agree on was that they would both like to speak with President Obama about his stance on "not standing against ISIS and Iran."

On the real, though, Ted Cruz will never admit he had no idea who she was. I'm just saying.

More: Ellen Page has a new girlfriend: 6 Things to know about Samantha Thomas

I made this big bowl of goodness just this past weekend for the hubs and I, and we ate it in our backyard under the moonlight... Psych!

Well, that really was our plan, but annoying mosquitoes took over our yard so dinner was served inside.

This is sort of like my favorite foods — bacon and crab, twirled in-between noodles. Also? It's a gourmet meal that comes together really, really fast and it is so much cheaper to make it at home. You can even throw something green in here, like peas, and make it all even better.

Or you could just drink it with red wine… or white! (My fave.) Yeah. Let's do that.

Bacon and crab meat linguine recipe

Make this 30-minute restaurant-quality crab linguine right at home for much, much less.

Serves 4

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes

Ingredients: 

• 8 to 10 ounces linguine pasta
• 1/2 cup chopped bacon
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 cup canned small peas, well rinsed and drained
• 1 (8 ounce) package lump crab meat
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare the linguine according to the directions on the box, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat to a desired crispness.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic and seasoning with salt and pepper; continue to cook until onions are translucent and tender.
4. Turn down the heat and stir in the prepared linguine.
5. Add Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water; stir it to create a thickened sauce. If sauce is too thick, add more pasta water.
6. Stir in the cream and remove the mixture from heat.
7. Add peas and crab meat; stir to combine.
8. Transfer to serving plates, garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese and serve.

More easy meals

One-Pot Wonder: Spicy sausage mac and cheese in just 30 minutes
30-Minute meal: Crispy chicken thighs with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce
Easy 30-minute vegetarian meals for when life gets crazy

If you're waving your hand up high, then this won't surprise you in the slightest: It turns out Sam Rader was one of 60 million folks to have their Ashley Madison cheating accounts exposed by hackers this week. Rader's account was apparently uncovered by a Twitter user who used his street & IP addresses to uncover the account.

Now, if anyone was able to summon a modicum of sympathy for any of the Ashley Madison users outed this week, it may have been for the sad sacks who didn't realize that nothing on the Internet is guaranteed to stay private.

But let's face it: Sam Rader has spent the past several years trying to become Internet famous. He knows what happens on the Internet stays on the Internet.

And if the allegations that he has an account are true, well... he of all people should have known better.

More: Mom who stole Internet's hearts in sneaky viral pregnancy announcement shares heartbreaking news

Now, if you're one of the folks who bought the family's "perfect" image hook, line and sinker, don't feel too bad.

You're not alone. The couple describes themselves on YouTube as "a small family of four pointing to a big God and vlogging it all... daily," and they've garnered more than 360,000 followers on their channel — with more than 69 million views.

More: Ashley Madison hack could out cheating spouses to the whole world

But the Ashley Madison account, opened in September 2013 and linked to a domain called becausethatswhy.com that Sam Rader purchased in 2011, is hardly the first chink in the family's squeaky clean armor. Earlier this summer, the couple uploaded a video to their channel in which their daughter, Symphony, says gays should be allowed to marry "if they want to," only to have dad force her to change her mind. It's been yanked from their YouTube channel, but again nothing ever truly disappears from the Internet, does it?

Industrious Internet users were able to resurface it... and use it to petition NatureBox to yank its sponsorship of Sam and Nia.

Of course, earlier this week, Sam was busy telling People that their troubles aren't their own, that the Internet is just full of meanies who can't handle the couple's Christian faith, saying, "I think as long as you're a Christian in this world and a God believer, you're going to get hatred and persecuted and that's just what you expect when you're living the life of God."

More: 12 Incredibly American habits that make the rest of the world hate us

But seeing as one of the tenets of the Christian faith, in fact one of the 10 Commandments, is "thou shalt not commit adultery," it seems safe to go out on a limb and say that maybe, just maybe, the "persecution" is less about Sam Rader's life of God and more about his idiotic actions on the Internet.

Have you checked the Ashley Madison site yet? Who did you find?

The Los Angeles Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force searched the Simmons family residence Thursday over an undisclosed crime — but by the name of the task force, all signs point to child porn.

Luckily, the KISS rocker and his family are not suspects in any crime; rather, police believe they too are victims.

"No one in the Simmons family is a suspect in this investigation," an LAPD official told NBC News.

A representative for Simmons confirmed that the search took place and said that the rock star was away on tour when the alleged crime was thought to have taken place.

More: 3 New Bill Cosby accusers step forward to tell their stories

"[Police] visited Mr. and Mrs. Simmons at their home to discuss a crime that may have occurred on their property last year while Mr. Simmons was away on tour with KISS," the rep said in a statement.

"Neither Mr. Simmons nor any member of his family is a person of interest in the investigation and they are cooperating fully with the investigation. At this time, the police have requested that Mr. Simmons and his family not discuss the investigation publicly so as not to compromise it."

Of course, that didn't stop Simmons and his wife Shannon Tweed from tweeting about it. Simmons stuck to retweeting news stories that highlighted the fact that he and his family are not suspects, while Tweed thanked fans for their support and denied reports that anything criminal was found on their home computers.

More: Gene Simmons' advice to the ladies: Stop depending on men and get a job!

The ensuing article was to be straightforward — a sampling of statements collected from social media by those who have supported the Duggar family throughout the maelstrom of the past year. It was going to be a collection of direct quotes from people still in the Duggars' corner.

Only, to source these reactions, I turned to comment threads and, well, that's a rabbit hole that's hard to crawl back out of. During my research, I discovered an interesting trend. In response to disturbing news about the Duggars, fans lash out — at the writers and reporters delivering said news.

So, before we explore some of these responses and address a few of the lingering questions about the latest Josh Duggar report, I'd like to make things a bit easier on those of you who will inevitably choose to troll me after reading this article.

My name is Julie Sprankles, and I live in Charleston, South Carolina. I believe racism is vile and part of a belief system peddled by backward-thinkers — I fully supported the removal of the Confederate flag from our State House.

I am an advocate of marriage equality and celebrated the momentous legislation that made it possible for some of the people I love most in my life to be able to honor the sanctity of marriage by joining in it themselves.

More: Research on the Duggars' lifestyle and beliefs exposes shocking revelations

No, I am not endorsing Hillary Clinton for our next president (although I can almost guarantee her name will come up in the corresponding comment thread). I'm leaning toward Bernie Sanders, but I'm also quite fond of Ben Carson.

Gun control? In favor of. Abortion? Opposed to partial-birth.

I am married to a veteran and former firefighter, and we have two small children who we sometimes let watch a tad too much TV and eke out an extra half-hour of play past bedtime. I curse too much. Sometimes, I gossip. I try to be a good person, but I know I am imperfect and that's OK.

Hopefully, that will clear up any assumptions you may have about me — or, depending on your druthers, it will fuel your vitriol. Do with it what you will.

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, I'd like to address some of the remarks that stuck out to me whilst reading Duggar fan feedback. First, it should be duly noted that not all Duggar fans still support the family in light of the recent allegations. "I have lost all faith in this family," said one. "Anna please get out and save yourself and your kids. Josh is the devil."

Said another: "I am a Christian and appalled at Josh's actions. And the fact he's been ridiculing others for their mistakes all while knowingly being a child molester and adulterer is repugnant."

More: Josh Duggar deserves a little more sympathy than people are giving him

But there were more still who staunchly support Josh Duggar and the rest of the family, regardless of any allegations and/or corroborations. Here are 10 pieces of feedback from that demographic I'd like to address.

1. "Since when do grown men go to prison for adultery?! While I don't condone this behavior at all, people cheat on their spouses every day and I haven't seen anyone go to prison for it."

Prison wasn't brought up in the context of Josh's alleged adultery. Rather, it was brought up in reference to the fact that he molested his younger siblings and at least one family friend. That is, in fact, a criminal act. Yes, there is a statute of limitations, which is unfortunate. Which brings us to our next point...

2. "Uh, how is he a pedophile if this happened when he was underage himself? Perhaps you should look up the definition of pedophile."

OK, great suggestion! The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines a pedophile as: "(noun) a person who has a sexual interest in children." Therefore, strictly by definition, Josh is a pedophile. According to the police report, we know he molested several siblings and a family friend more than once in 2002 and 2003. That would make him 14 and 15. The youngest victim at the time was reportedly 5. Which, again, brings us to our next point...

3. "You need to look up the word 'incest' before you write such trash as in this article, and their views on all the 'sin' are not theirs, but according to the Bible."

Merriam-Webster defines incest as "sexual intercourse between persons so closely related that they are forbidden by law to marry." And, lest anyone should argue that Josh did not have intercourse with his sisters, Merriam-Webster defines intercourse as "physical sexual contact between individuals that involves the genitalia of at least one person." Also, for good measure...

4. "I'm still confused how it is molestation if he himself was a minor?? If it was unwanted then it would be rape, but I think calling it molestation is unjust."

According to Merriam-Webster, to molest is "to make annoying sexual advances to; especially: to force physical and usually sexual contact on." Surely we can all agree that fondling and inappropriately touching young girls while they are sleeping falls beneath that umbrella.

5. "Of course, he was wrong with his latest error. But it would have not happened if when that Woman [sic] who opened sealed records was brought to justice. That is a criminal offence [sic] and he was a minor at the time. Someone please help Joah [sic] and let him talk and hug him and in this way he can heal."

Contrary to the classic "if a tree falls in the woods and no one hears it" logic, if someone commits pedophilia or adultery and is never caught, the act does, in fact, still happen. And, regardless of how many people eventually find out, it is always damaging to the victims and, in this case, the spouse. See also: As much as we would like them to, hugs do not have magical healing powers.

6. "Maybe you are such a prude, that you were a perfect little angel in college and NEVER did anything possibly 'risque,' hmmm?"

I actually went to college with the writer this comment was lobbed at, and I can say with certainty that her college years did not include pedophilia, adultery or a porn addiction. She was a band geek at a private Christian university who was in homecoming and the English honors society. Writers are people, too. P.S.: That's the diciest usage of the term risqué I've ever seen.

7. "Was there any evidence of him actually cheating? Just being registered on the site does not mean he hooked up with anyone."

Josh's statement following the Ashley Madison hack indicates that he "became unfaithful" to his wife.

8. "When are you going to write your article on how truly saddened you are over the way that Hillary Clinton has continued to respond to her husband's cheating?"

If I had a dollar for every time I came across a comment bringing up Hillary and Bill, I'd be a rich woman. The issue here is that Hillary and Bill are not under discussion. Trying to excuse Josh's actions by bringing up Bill's indiscretions is classic deflecting behavior.

9. "He may need counseling in relation to his immoral behavior, but he's not mentally ill. He's no different than anyone else who has made poor choices and hoped not to get caught."

Well, that's not entirely true. Yes, we are all imperfect and we all make poor choices — but not everyone's poor choices involve pedophilia, incest, adultery and pornography. I'm not saying that to pass judgment; I am simply pointing out a truth.

10. "'I am truly saddened' that media liberals, with a lot of time on their hands, want to pry into the private lives of people and tell them what they should or should not be doing."

There is indeed much to be said for the individual right to privacy. Having said that, Josh has made a very handsome career out of pontificating to others about moral superiority and what they should or should not be doing. That puts the whole "it's not your business" argument on shaky ground.

And in an exclusive sneak peek posted by People Magazine about Sunday’s Manzo’d With Children, Caroline Manzo is up to her eyeballs in diva. Her daughter Lauren’s July nuptials to Vito Scalia have turned Lauren into a full-on bridezilla, and Caroline says she is barely holding onto her sanity. She has a much stronger word for Lauren's attitude.

More: Carolina Manzo dishes on her relationship with Teresa Giudice

"Lauren's a really freaking bitch lately, I'll tell you that,” Manzo says. Then she reveals her No. 1 goal throughout this entire ordeal: to stay sane, at all costs.

More: Caroline Manzo no longer speaking to her RHONJ sister

The former Real Housewives of New Jersey star said her daughter's behavior is so bad, it might drive her to substance abuse. "I just hope I make it through it. I’m just going to have a Xanax all day. I'll be popping Xanax like Tic Tacs," Caroline said.

I think she is probably kidding; otherwise, we might be advising she seek real help. Also, in the clip, we see all three Manzo children, Lauren, Albie and Chris, re-creating childhood photos. How adorable.

Watch the exclusive clip over at People magazine.

More: Real Housewives of New York: 10 Most volatile fights on the show

More: Couple replicate traditional newborn photo shoots with pics of their puppy

The Basso family were home at the time, and took a video of the mother bear and her five cubs swimming in their above-ground pool in the backyard. The little cubs even made use of the family's slide and played with the pool toys.

Tim Basso told ABC 7 about the surprise he got when he saw the adorable intruders.

More: Westie cruising on a Jet Ski has a better life than all of us (VIDEO)

"I thought they would get a drink or just drink out of it for a minute and then move on, but they pretty much started climbing," he said. "My first thought was really, where is the dog and where are the kids?"

"They came in, they experienced the pool, they got it, they seemed to enjoy themselves. They did a little bit of damage on the pool toys and floats and whatnot, but all in all I don't think it was a terrible experience," he added.

More: This little bear cub is so cute, you'll forget puppies exist (VIDEO)

The bears reportedly left of their own accord after an hour. Aww.

Watch the cute video below, it's bound to make your day.

More: 8 Shower sex survival tips for couples who dare to perfect it

1. It's probably not legal

Basically, if someone else can see you getting busy, it's against the law. For your best bet, own a private beach (or get permission to boink on one). "Intercourse on a private beach could be legal depending on who can see you," says Michael Helfand, attorney-at-law. "For example, you can have sex in a hot tub on your property, but if it's in view of others, then you could get hit with a public indecency charge. Same for the beach, if you own a large strip of it and it's away from the easy view of others, then frolic away."

2. It can hurt

While you have the usual risks of sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy if you don't use protection and contraception, having sex on a beach may be hazardous for other reasons, as Wendie A. Howland of Howland Health Consulting explains. "The major hazards involved with sex on a beach are: the very real problem of sand in eyes or other normally moist and tender parts causing painful abrasions, and sunburn if in the daytime."

3. The water may wash away a critical component

If you decide to try doing it in the water, you'll have another thing to worry about. "Intercourse in the water, fresh or salt, tends to wash away normal or applied lubrication, and this can result in discomfort," says Howland. I think discomfort may be too mild of a word here — imagine no lubrication combined with sand in the vagina and you have probably everyone's definition of hell on earth.

More: Sex in your 40s puts 20-something sex to shame

4. You might have a close encounter of the worst kind

Depending on where you are on a beach, you may be at risk of getting a little too close to a critter with uncool results. For example, sand flea bites can itch and swell, and they can also transmit viruses and protozoa — not sexy. Also watch out for yellow jackets and other stinging insects, and if you're close to or in the water, some marine animals may get up in your business, like jellyfish — which can injure or even kill you.

5. You may be romping on fecal matter

Gross, right? Studies have shown that beach sand can contain tons of poop, which can make you sick. Of course, if you're not digging a hole, you may not be at a huge risk, but how much of a chance do you really want to take? Chances are some disgusting bacteria can and will find its way into your body somehow.

6. You may be able to get away with it

...but the risk is all on you and your partner, says attorney Jonathan G. Stein. "There aren’t any places where you can be safe knowing it is legal," he muses, but he notes that there are spots where people do routinely get away with it. "When I was in San Diego, there was a beach called Black’s Beach. It’s a nude beach. People had sex on it all the time. I never recall hearing of anyone getting arrested. Similarly, there are two beaches in Humboldt County (also in California) where people have sex on the beach. I haven’t heard of any prosecutions there either."

More: 6 Beach-safe sex positions for those who dare try it

Bottom line? Follow your local laws, watch out for bugs and jellyfish, wear sunscreen, and keep sand out of your body parts — and it may be a great experience.

Well, if ever there was inspiration to go all the way with a concept, this couple's engagement photo is it. Los Angeles natives Katherine Canipe and Alex Wells are also huge movie buffs, and thus they decided to recreate an iconic image from one of their favorite movies for their engagement photo.

More: Crossfit couple wins our hearts with stunningly athletic engagement pics

Now you might think, considering the occasion, they'd go with a romantic comedy, but that would be way too prosaic for these crazy creative kids. No, instead, they went for one of the greatest, if not the least bit romantic, film couples of all time — Doc Brown and Marty McFly from Back to the Future.

Image: Ricky Middlesworth

Well, to be fair, it's actually Back to the Future II, since that's the one where both Doc and Marty appear on the film poster. However, despite that detail, if you take a look at the original, you'll see that the similarities are pretty uncanny.

Image: Universal

Is that spectacular, or what? I know it's a little unorthodox, but I think the way they incorporated the ring is actually pretty ingenious. Not to mention, the costumes, background lightening and Delorean recreations are spot on. You can thank photographer Ricky Middlesworth for that. Arizona-born, now Los Angeles local, Middlesworth prides himself on his experimental photography and film work, which is often inspired by the "Golden Age of music videos." He's worked with celebrities and non-celebrities alike, and obviously, he has a talent for capturing an almost preternatural look.

More: 18 Things that will happen right after you get engaged

1. How to set up your computer

Setting up Macs is pretty simple, but less tech-savvy PC users get intimidated by this process because of all the strange-looking connectors, but it's easy. If you're totally lost, have someone show you one time, and as they do, mark the cords so you can set it back up easily if you have to move it.

2. How to download and install software and drivers

Drivers are just software that let other devices talk to your computer, so don't be intimidated. Regardless of the type of software, the instructions may vary by operating system and the program you're installing, but if you read and follow the instructions carefully before beginning, you'll be fine.

3. How to set up email

Setting up your own email is easy. While the exact steps you should take vary slightly depending on your program, in general, you'll need certain information from your email address provider.

• Email address
• Password
• Outgoing (SMTP) port code
• Incoming (POP3 or IMAP) port code

To get instructions for setting it up in your specific software (called an email client), you can use the software's help section or search for it online.

More: 8 Wi-Fi tips you should be using but probably aren't

4. How to set up and connect to the internet

Setting up wired and wireless routers is essential. Follow the directions that come with your router to the letter, and if you have any problems, most companies offer complimentary phone support for the first 30 to 90 days after your purchase. Make sure you change the name of the device and the password. Also make sure you know how to troubleshoot it in case there are issues.

To log onto wireless internet when you're not at home, you'll need the name of the device and the password (if one is required).

5. How to sync your smartphone or tablet to your computer

Regardless of what kind of smartphone or tablet you have, you can sync it to your computer to back up your data, add or change your music and movies, move files like photos over to your computer for backup and on some platforms, update your software.

6. How to protect your computer (and your friends' computers) from malware and viruses

It's imperative that everyone who uses a computer have antivirus software. For a PC, the type and robustness of antivirus software you need depends on the level of risky behavior (e.g., watching porn) you engage in.

Even though Apple's built-in protections make getting viruses virtually impossible, you can become a Typhoid Mary for PC users. We recommend installing ClamXav — that's what Apple Mail uses, so clearly they're confident in it.

7. How to send files (properly)

Learn to put all your files into a single folder and zip or compress it so you don't jam up people's email or make accessing multiple files a pain. For files too large for email, you should use CloudApp, Box or Dropbox.

More: 9 Apps that help you spy on people and cover your tracks

8. How to back up your computer

An external hard drive is a common way to back up your computer (and store files you can't fit on there anymore). Just make sure if you decide to use it for both, you partition your hard drive. How big a drive you need depends on what you do, but it should be at least a bit bigger than your computer's hard drive.

I like online backup services like Mozy or Carbonite (or one of the file-sharing services above) because you can easily by more storage in a snap, and your data is protected in case of fire, flood or theft.

9. How to find your lost devices

It's easy to lose track of portable devices when you're busy. There are lots of apps on the market, but the most common ones are Find My iPhone and Find My Android Phone. You can also find software and solutions like Prey that will track your computer.

More: 10 Things to know about the new Google Photos app

10. How to secure devices

Your computer's password should be just as difficult to guess (and hack) as your bank password. Also keep your other devices' passwords or passcodes protected. Note that due to a court ruling, it's possible the police can compel you to open your phone with thumbprint access but not an actual code. Not only will using passwords and codes protect your privacy and security, they'll let you control when your kiddos use your devices.

Claire Hitchen and Louise Reid had been best friends since they were toddlers. They went to school together, hung out over holidays and double-dated often with their boyfriends of the moment. As they grew up, they started working together in the same factory, and even began living next door to each other. It's no surprise that when Hitchen fell in love with Paul Wallis, and he asked her to marry him back in 2002, she immediately asked Louise to be her maid of honor.

More: Women cruelly expose cheating wife at baseball game

Hitchen told the Daily Mail, "Louise was crying that she was so happy for us, even saying that we were perfect for each other! It was the happiest day of my life and sharing it with Louise made it all the more special." Little did she know this same woman would end up giving birth to Wallis' child ten years later.

Hitchen and Wallis' first two years of marriage went well enough, but when Hitchen became pregnant with their second boy in 2005, everything changed. "Until then, Paul had been the most loving husband a girl could ask for... But when we found out we were having another boy, it was like I'd let him down. He didn't want me anymore." It sounds like Wallis has a bit of a Henry the VIII complex, except in reverse, because he wanted a daughter. Regardless, it's an absurd reason to fall out of love with someone.

He began to grow distant from Hitchen, and began a friendship with Reid, with whom Hitchen's was still very close. The two started sharing rides to work together, and even Hitchen's mother noticed there was something too intimate about their friendship. However, when Hitchen confronted Reid, she laughed it off as nothing.

Hitchen decided to let it go, until the first night out she and Wallis had after the birth of their second son. He got fall down drunk, and she was able to get a look at his cell phone, which up until that point, he'd managed to keep away from her. To her dismay, she saw this text from Louise: "Hi babe! What you been up to? I’m home, going to bed now. XX Lou."

After that, her world started to crumble. She confronted her husband and Reid, but the two denied everything, and explained away the text as a misinterpretation. After a lot of arguing, Hitchen decided to give him one last chance, despite everything, because she still loved him. They decided to take some time and meet a few weeks later to reassess.

However, when that day came, Wallis refused to meet, and instead told his wife he was going for a drink with Reid. "He'd just been stringing me along while he plucked up the courage to finish it for good. Finally it sank in. I'd lost it all — my husband and my best friend."

More: You're probably better at spotting a cheater than you think

Soon enough, Reid and Wallis became an item, and even had a son together in 2012. However, they're not married, because Wallis is still married to Hitchen. So why, you may ask, has Hitchen remained married to this man six years after he treated her so terribly? Simply put, getting divorced is expensive, and she hasn't been able to afford it.

That being said, she has moved on from this traumatizing situation emotionally. She's been with her current fiancé Danny Astbury for several years now, and even had a son with him back in 2011. The great news is that she's finally able to afford a divorce from her first husband, so she can officially and legally put that relationship behind her and start a new life with a (hopefully) more loyal life partner.

The parenting partnership, when done well, really does provide the best situation for your growing children. Your kids should recognize that they are more important than the conflict that ended the marriage. Children whose divorced parents have a cooperative relationship feel more secure, see the value of consistency, understand problem-solving better and have a healthy example to follow.

The difficult key to co-parenting successfully is to focus only on the children. This means putting your own emotions of anger, resentment and hurt toward your ex aside for the sake of focusing on your child’s future, well-being, and stability. After all, you are the adult here. Never vent to your child. Your feelings are important, but get them out somewhere else… a therapist, a friend, even exercise are great outlets for your emotions. Children should never be in the middle of the emotional battle between parents. Do not use them as a sounding board or as messengers between the two of you.

Communication is extremely important as co-parents. Establishing a method that works for you and keeps it conflict-free may take some trial and error. Do you work better with phone, email or text? The following tools will help you no matter which avenue you use.

1. Set a business like tone — approach with cordiality, respect and neutrality. Relax and talk slowly.
2. Make requests instead of statements or demands.
3. Listen — this is a mature form of communication.
4. Show restraint — don’t push buttons with your ex, and learn when to be quiet and not to overreact.
5. Commit to consistency — whether that is meeting or talking on a regular basis, show that you are a united front for your child.
6. Keep conversation kid-focused.
7. Ask his or her opinion — this goes a long way for positive communication and respect.
8. Apologize when you need to, and do it sincerely.
9. Chill out and be flexible.

Your child needs two responsible, communicative parents who love them and are focused on their well-being and health. When this can happen, they have a head start on a successful future. Of course you can only control you, so do your part to be part of the team and see what happens.

Montessori and Waldorf schools share many similarities, but they also subscribe to distinct philosophies. Before you make your final decision about your student’s schooling, consider these three differences between Montessori and Waldorf schools.

1. Age versus grade designations

One of the most obvious differences between Montessori and Waldorf education is the composition of each classroom. Montessori schools are notable for their mixed age groupings (for example, ages 6 to 9), while Waldorf schools utilize a more traditional grade structure — a student in second grade will learn with peers who are also in second grade, as opposed to peers who are in first, second and third. However, Waldorf schools are notable for their insistence that the same teacher accompany a given group of students through grades one through eight. While Montessori believes that younger pupils can learn a great deal from their peers, Waldorf views a child’s instructor as an important guide who can better serve his or her students with each passing year.

2. The role of imagination

Both Montessori and Waldorf recognize the importance of imagination. Each school emphasizes creativity and the arts in its curriculum, exposing children to subjects like dance, music, painting and theater. Imaginative play is the primary focus of early education under the Waldorf model, and young students are strongly encouraged to participate in make-believe. Montessori schools also welcome imaginative play, but they prefer the children who are enrolled in their schools to find pleasure in activities that occur in the real world — in cooking, in knitting and the like. This emphasis on work as play begins at the age of 3 or 4, which is also the age at which Waldorf students delve into fairy stories and other aspects of make-believe.

3. The scope of the curriculum

The Montessori and Waldorf philosophies are alike in their decision to follow an alternate educational pedagogy. Neither model focuses on preparing children for standardized exams, and traditional textbooks are uncommon in their classrooms. In fact, Montessori even allows its students to dictate the scope and pace of the curriculum. The children in each mixed-age classroom help one another master the lessons that they choose, with the teacher serving as a facilitator of sorts. Waldorf instructors take a more central role, with pupils working in groups throughout the school day. Despite the traditional role of the teacher, Waldorf schools still incorporate student interests, and both Montessori and Waldorf view education as a foundation to be continually built upon and deeply respected.

For more tips and strategies to help your student succeed in school, visit varsitytutors.com.

1. Measure different ingredients

Find ingredients that can add a fun tactile experience and practice measuring them. Beans, sugar, chocolate chips, corn kernels… See what is in your pantry and grab a small sampling! Talk about why it may be easier to measure a cup of dry rice versus a cup of flour that needs to be leveled. Also, how should liquids be measured? What about a sticky substance like peanut butter?

Past the fun of getting messy and touching the ingredients, try working on the basic math behind measuring. Depending on your student's age, you can focus on the simpler measurements. For example: How many quarter-cups can fit into one cup? Or the more complex questions, such as: How many ounces is 15 teaspoons?

2. Craft an edible necklace

Grab O-shaped gummies, cereal and pretzels and let your student craft herself an edible necklace. She can play with patterns and styles while placing the pieces onto strands of cooking twine or other food-safe string. How chic and tasty!

3. Watch raisins dance

Bring a bit of science into the kitchen with raisins. Grab a clear carbonated beverage, such as citrus soda or seltzer water, and a small handful of raisins. Pour the drink into a clear glass and drop a few raisins in. Your student may be surprised to see what happens! Because of the rough surface, the bubbles from the carbonation are attracted to the raisin, which makes it float. Once it reaches the top of the glass, the bubbles pop, which makes it sink. The process happens again and again!

4. Make potato stamps

With a little adult supervision, you can make a potato into a stamp — perfect for craft time! There are several variations of this project, including keeping an end to hold as a handle, but the simplest way is by using cookie cutters and potato slices. Clean and dry the potato, then cut it into slices — thin enough to push a cookie cutter through but thick enough to hold on to the sides of while using it as a stamp. Give your student a variety of cookie cutters and the potato slices you cut, as well as kid-friendly paint and paper, and see what she creates.

5. Play the water glasses

While you run the risk of teaching them a bad dinner-table habit, making glasses sing can be loads of fun. Grab your stemware — perhaps not your family heirloom items — and fill the glasses with varying levels of water. Teach your child to dampen her finger and run it around the edge to make a noise. Can she form a song? If she's a little older, you can even research the science behind why this makes noise, as well as Benjamin Franklin's glass armonica, an instrument formed to make the playing of glasses easier.

For more tips and strategies to help your student succeed in school, visit varsitytutors.com.

Selena is not one of the most popular ladies on Bring It, and tonight, she once again proved why: She's incredibly immature! Her behavior during the latest episode of Bring It was far worse than anything we've seen thus far from the teenage girls on the show.

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

There were multiple troublemakers featured tonight on Bring It, but Selena definitely led the pack. She freaked out when two of the parents were allowed to go to New York and she wasn't. If Selena is so desperate to visit the Big Apple, she should book her own ticket and go on her own dime. Either that or she should act like an adult and, maybe, someday she will be selected.

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

Perhaps the worst of the many Selena offenses took place when she decided to sneak into Dianna's office (from which she is banned during practice) in order to take a ton of selfies while sitting in Dianna's chair. This sounds like the sort of thing a disgruntled teenager would do while the teacher is out.

More: Bring It's Crystianna needs to stop playing it safe

Not only does Selena's awful behavior reflect poorly on herself, it could hamper her daughters' positions on the team. If she keeps it up, she very well may get her poor girls kicked off the Dancing Dolls. That's too bad, because, despite how awful she is, she somehow managed to raise three reasonably mature daughters. Maybe they learned by example of what not to do.

Twitter responds to Selena's immaturity

Selena may not have been popular to begin with, but she certainly didn't gain any new fans after she caused a big scene on not one, but two occasions. Twitter's huge community of loyal Bring It fans directed plenty of criticism at Selena, as evidenced by these tweets.

Selena needs to back off and let Dianna do her job. Her needless commentary is only harming her daughters, not to mention annoying the show's fans. This bitter and immature mom needs to follow the good example set by her daughters and calm down. Otherwise, instead of being left out of a mere New York City trip, she and her daughters might be left out of the Dancing Dolls for good.

Images: Lifetime

Were you bothered by Selena Johnson's behavior during tonight's episode of Bring It? Or did she have good reason to be upset? Comment and share your thoughts below!

More: Kendra Wilkinson finally tells Hank his cheating left a lasting impression (VIDEO)

The first episode of the season starts with Kendra and Hank in the car, presumably headed back home after their (also intense) stint on Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars. They both seem anxious to get back into some sort of routine after "the worst year" of their lives.

A brief but dizzying recap reminds us of everything they went through — Hank's highly publicized alleged affair with a transgender model, the ensuing fallout when Kendra found out and the moment when Hank "decided to tell [Kendra] and the world the truth" during Marriage Boot Camp.

Clearly, their marriage is still a work in progress.

Honestly, I've been looking forward to this season to see how the couple will cope and readjust now that the fervor surrounding Hank's scandal has died down a bit. Despite all of their struggles, I feel as though Kendra has been incredibly strong. But in the absence of all of the static, would she be able to maintain that toughness? Can their marriage really come out on the other side of this unscathed?

More: Kendra Wilkinson posts telling pics about her marriage (PHOTO)

I'm going to go ahead and call it now: The answer to that question is no. At the onset, we see that even Kendra's psychiatrist has serious concerns for the couple's union. "There were some things that were very concerning," the counselor says. "A lot has transpired."

Red flag No. 1: Intimacy issues

Here's where the first red flag comes into play. When discussing their sex life now, Kendra comments that she and Hank have sex twice a week and she is satisfied with that. As for Hank, she doesn't know how he feels because he doesn't know how to talk to her about that stuff.

Which, you know, was a huge point of contention in their marriage pre-scandal. My hope here is that the psychiatrist helps Kendra and Hank find a way to effectively communicate with each other, lest they fall back into an unhealthy pattern.

Red flag No. 2: Time apart

The premiere has barely begun when we learn Kendra is headed to the UK for various press appearances. That in and of itself doesn't have to be problematic — sure, spending time together would have been nice, but Kendra has a point in that they have to work to support their lifestyle. I can't imagine Calabasas comes cheap.

Kendra on Top's executive producer (EP) explains, "Just as she was getting out of Boot Camp, Kendra got the offer to do the UK version of I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here in Australia. Her agents informed her that if she did the show, there would be many opportunities for her, particularly in the UK. So Hank was aware that Kendra would probably be away from home for the better part of two months."

Red flag No. 3: Repressed feelings

Having said that, the conversation surrounding the trip is troubling. Kendra tells the camera that she feels like now it is her turn to deal with her problems, saying to Hank, "I just don't think it's fair — I was able to stick it out with you, now I need you to stick it out with me." Only, I don't think dealing with relationship problems is sequential... it's overlapping and ongoing. Her logic could definitely lead to tension and repressed feelings down the road.

More: Hank Baskett's unexpected struggle has Kendra Wilkinson worried (VIDEO)

Ultimately, says the show EP, "It put a strain on their relationship and the healing process, but both agreed it was in the financial interest of the family for her to take advantage of the opportunities."

Red flag No. 4: Unresolved doubts

Upon arrival, Kendra is escorted to a swanky S&M-inspired suite at a boutique hotel. She calls Hank to catch up, but he seems somehow disconnected from the conversation. Kendra tells the camera she loves being a mom and never questions that part of her life, but she does sometimes question her marriage to Hank, wondering, "Am I cut out for this?"

Red flag No. 5: Flirting with disaster

On the one hand, it's great to see Kendra trying to get back to her old self. She deserves to be her happy, bubbly self again! And it's nice she had a friend — her I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here costar, Jimmy Bollard — to reconnect with while on the trip. It's the way that she talks about Jimmy that gives pause. "I love Jimmy, and I do want to kiss him," she says. "Being with Jimmy and, like, having fun with him and flirting, inside of me it just does something. It feels good. I guess it's wrong, but maybe that's why it feels so right."

Red flag No. 6: An emotional (and more) hangover

After a wild night out with Jimmy, friends and fans, Kendra has seen better days. She is awoken that morning to a call from Gemma Wheatley, the popular UK publicist she's working with during her travels. Gemma informs her that, in the morning post, pictures of Kendra and Jimmy "look like you're full-on snogging." Impressively, Kendra makes it through an entire day of press appearances afterwards.

More: Kendra Wilkinson is now defending herself against cheating rumors (VIDEO)

Red flag No. 7: Strained connections

The long day of press appearances wiped Kendra out (understandably), so she ended the evening with a long bath. As she is getting out, Hank calls. At first, he comes off as nonchalant, but he quickly segues into her night at the pub. Kendra tries to explain that she doesn't remember kissing Jimmy — and doesn't think she did — but Hank is livid at her response, calling it a double standard before hanging up. Obviously, the scars from the cheating scandal are still very raw and need to be addressed before things get toxic.

Or, rather, more toxic: "In contrast to all the fun Kendra is having in London, what audiences haven't seen yet is the intense emotional strain that Kendra's trip puts on her marriage," says the show EP, "particularly when confronted with Hank's outburst of anger."

Red flag No. 8: External pressures

Being a celebrity couple — and especially one recovering from a scandal — can't be easy. And, in addition to constant scrutiny, Kendra and Hank are dealing with other external pressures that could add strain to their marriage. "Shortly before she left for London, Kendra found out her father was in Singapore about to go into surgery to help his neck. There was serious talk of Kendra scrapping her trip in order to be at his side. Luckily, the surgery was a success and Eric assured her there was no reason to cancel her appearances in the UK to be by his side," said the EP.

While I'm happy Eric is OK, I feel certain family issues will come up at some point this season. Read: Kendra's mom has a special knack for creating problems, even where there are none.

Do you think Kendra and Hank are headed for more heartbreak?

My husband also loves that this is no-bake, because I can throw it together in no time, and we can be eating dessert in no time. By using store-bought angel food cake, you get that cakey cobbler topping that pairs perfectly with spiced whipped cream, naturally sweet peaches and fresh summer mint.

Trust me, after you see this recipe, you'll want to make it all year long.

No-bake peach cobbler trifle recipe

We all love peach cobbler, but it's even better when in trifle form. Plus it's way easier. Use frozen or canned peaches when fresh aren't available.

Serves 6

Total time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 store-bought angel food cake, cut or torn into bite-size pieces
• 1 container frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 cups small diced peaches
• 1/3 cup diced mint

Directions:

1. Lay out 6 short cocktail glasses or Mason jars. Add cake to the bottoms of the glasses or jars.
2. Add cinnamon to the whipped topping, and stir to combine.
3. Cover the cake with a layer of whipped topping, peaches and a sprinkling of mint.
4. Continue until all layers have been made.

More peach recipes

Raspberry-peach iced tea
Peaches and cream tart
Brown sugar baked peaches

Unless you get to the root of your clutter problem, it will keep appearing in the same places over and over again. Do it right the first time, so you aren't forever moving, organizing and maintaining all of your "stuff."

The entryway: Stop clutter in its tracks

Ah, it's so good to be home. We dump our bags, coats, keys, shoes, umbrellas…  Before you know it, you're stepping over stuff to get into your house because when there's not a specific place for everything, then anything can end up anywhere.

Many homes are equipped with an entryway closet. If yours is, then utilize it as such. Dedicate it strictly to coming-and-going items, such as coats, shoes, hats, scarves and gloves. Don't let its valuable space be used up for anything else (seasonal decorations, general storage, etc.).

No closet? No problem!

Image: Target.com

A simple coat stand takes up very little space and handles a surprising amount of stuff. A nearby bin or basket serves as a boot and shoe catcher. Using vertical space makes sense, too — like this wall rack with message board. (Target, $70)

Storage and a place to sit

<div><a href='http://www.houzz.com/photos/24593452/Baxton-Studio-Espresso-Entryway-Bench-transitional-accent-and-storage-benches'><img src='http://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/9ef1b90404ff0aab_8-9955/transitional-accent-and-storage-benches.jpg' border=0 width='500' height='426' /></a></div><div style='color:#444;'><small><a style='text-decoration:none;color:#444;' href='http://www.houzz.com/photos/transitional/accent-and-storage-benches' >Transitional Accent And Storage Benches</a> by <a style='text-decoration:none;color:#444;' href='http://www.houzz.com/professionals/furniture-and-accessories/c/Bensenville--IL' >Bensenville Furniture & Accessories</a> <a style='text-decoration:none;color:#444;' href='http://www.houzz.com/pro/baxtonstudiofurniture/baxton-studio' >Baxton Studio</a></small></div>

Image: Houzz.com

If there's room, add a storage bench. The bench will give your family a place to sit when removing shoes and a place to put those shoes so they're not lying all over the entry floor. Bonus: When you're in a hurry, no one should be yelling, "I can't find my shoes!" (Houzz.com, $184)

Sneaky storage

Image: IKEA.com

For narrower spots, a shoe cabinet may be just the ticket. It will hold plenty without jutting into your walking space. Add a basket or bowl to the top for corralling keys, mail and other potential clutter. (Ikea, $129)

More: 7 Home decorating ideas you're too scared to try

The kitchen and dining room: Make room for meals

Tables are meant for meals, not for your incoming mail, the kids' backpacks, your laptop… But unless you have other furniture or spaces to catch those daily items, they'll continue to consume prime real estate on your tabletops.

Reclaim your eating space one item at a time. If mail, school papers and magazines are cluttering your tables, create a new place for them. Don't remove them from the table over to the kitchen counter just to put them back on the table again. Look for storage furniture that will solve the problem once and for all.

Put the paperwork in its place

<div><a href='http://www.houzz.com/photos/11589594/Kitchen-featured-in-KBMO-transitional-kitchen-other-metro'><img src='http://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/2a91b056035e6215_8-4428/transitional-kitchen.jpg' border=0 width='500' height='690' /></a></div><div style='color:#444;'><small><a style='text-decoration:none;color:#444;' href='http://www.houzz.com/photos/transitional/kitchen' >Transitional Kitchen</a> by <a style='text-decoration:none;color:#444;' href='http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/c/Saratoga-Springs--NY' >Saratoga Springs Interior Designers & Decorators</a> <a style='text-decoration:none;color:#444;' href='http://www.houzz.com/pro/jennaburger/jenna-burger-design' >Jenna Burger Design</a></small></div>

Image: Houzz

Paper clutter (like mail, homework) has a way of creeping up on you. Ideally, you would manage every piece as soon as it arrives, but if you're a stacker, then it won't be long before you're in over your head, again. Add storage that sorts in the very room where the clutter tends to accumulate.

Here, simple wall units let you sort papers by task (to pay, to mail) or by person (Mom's work, Suzy's school papers). Keeping the bins in an open, high-traffic area means that important documents won't be lost as "out of sight, out of mind." (Staples, $25)

The kitchen counter is not your office

Image: Overstock.com

And for that ever-present laptop, consider an adjustable mobile workstation. It's on wheels, so you can easily move your computer from one place to another. And it can adjust to let your work while standing, sitting or even reclining. (Overstock.com, $73)

More: 6 Smart decorating tips for renters: Make a temporary space feel like home

The family room: Hide it in plain sight

When you spend a lot of time in a particular area, stuff is bound to accumulate. Your main living space is like a magnet for clutter — it's your favorite place to hang out, so that's where most of the family's stuff will likely end up.

To some degree, your home should look and feel lived in. But when there's too much "family stuff" lying around, the room can feel chaotic and less comfortable. Fortunately, this is one of the easiest areas to tackle because a lot of family room furniture is created to provide storage.

Form and function, all in one

Image: Amazon.com

Why not start with a couch that features hidden storage? A sofa bed with a lift-up storage compartment is a great place to stash extra blankets and pillows. (Amazon.com, $399)

Customizable designs with plenty of storage space

Image: Wayfair.com

Storage ottomans are like the super-furniture of clutter control. They come in as many shapes, sizes, materials and colors/patterns that you can imagine. They're great for putting up your feet. They serve as extra seating. They make adorable home decor accents. But the most important feature is that they provide plenty of storage: for books, games, toys, remotes and everything else you don't want lying around. (Wayfair.com, $270)

Hide the technology

The family's technology provides its own source of clutter. Phones, tablets, earbuds and chargers are so easily lost or misplaced. "Furniture manufacturers are getting smarter and creating pieces that disguise storage and can be incorporated into living spaces," says Kelly Fallis, CEO of Remote Stylist.

Image: RemoteStylist.com

Imagine keeping all of that clutter in one home office E-charge center (in a gorgeous color, too!) that features five pullout drawers and two side doors all armed with one power bar. (RemoteStylist.com, $1,650)

More: Home decorating sites that actually get us