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Slow Cooker Sunday: The most tender country-style ribs, no grill required

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All in all, these melt-in-your-mouth ribs couldn't be easier.

Mango-and-pineapple-pork-loin

They're sweet, spicy and tender with every bite, and that's a good thing.

Slow-cooker-mango-jalapeno-pork

I especially like how the sweetness of the mango and pineapple counter the heat from the serrano pepper.

Mango-and-pineapple-jalapeno-pork-tenderloin

Like this bite, for example. Don't you just want to dig in right now?

Slow-cooker-mango-jalapeno-pork-in-plate

Slow cooker mango, pineapple and jalapeño country-style pork ribs recipe

Slow-cooked, tender and moist country-style ribs are smothered in mango, pineapple and jalapeño and served over rice for a hearty meal.

Serves 4

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 6 hours | Total time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 3 pounds lean, boneless, country-style pork ribs
  • 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
  • 2 mangoes, peeled, seeded and chopped (for the slow cooker)
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large serrano pepper, seeded and chopped (use half the pepper if less heat is preferred)
  • 3 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 1 mango, peeled, seeded and chopped, for garnish
  • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon serrano pepper slices, for garnish
  • 4 servings cooked basmati rice

Directions:

  1. To a large slow cooker, add the country-style ribs, pineapple, mangoes, red bell pepper and onion.
  2. To a separate, small- to medium-size bowl, add the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, pepper, salt, serrano pepper and garlic. Stir all the ingredients well, and add them to the slow cooker.
  3. Turn the slow cooker on to the 6-hour setting, and cover with the lid.
  4. Serve the pork ribs and sauce from the slow cooker over basmati rice.
  5. Garnish with mango, cilantro, sesame seeds and serrano pepper.

slow cooker sunday

More pork rib recipes

Slow cooker pork ribs with spicy peach BBQ sauce
Pork ribs with sticky maple sauce
Tuscan-style pork ribs with balsamic glaze


Bella Twins tease their amazing abs in upcoming GQ shoot (PHOTOS)

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More: The Bella Twins reveal shocking decision about their WWE careers

Nikki and Brie Bella, who announced that they were leaving the E! reality series Total Divas last spring, have been working hard on the next steps in their careers.

First up? A girl-power video shoot for GQ.com.

The former WWE Divas teased the shoot on their social media last week with a handful of still photos from the shoot.

Bella Twins tease new photo shoot for GQ post-WWE Divas

Bella Twins tease new photo shoot for GQ post-WWE Divas

More: WWE fans grossly harass the Divas with sexist, inappropriate chant

In the photos, the girls are wearing sneakers, workout tights and sports bras and flaunting their ridiculously toned abs.

Last spring, the twins were presented on Total Divas with the option to renew their WWE contracts for three years. Throughout the season, both struggled with the idea of continuing a career as a Diva — Brie wanted to be a mom and start a family, while Nikki contemplated exploring other parts of the entertainment industry and taking some time off to try being an actress. Ultimately, neither twin signed the contract renewal.

More: The Bella Twins have decided what their next career move will be

What do you think of the Bella Sisters' GQ teaser photos? Will you check out their video when it's released? Head down to the comments and share your thoughts.

Unauthorized Full House Story's Justin Gaston responds to haters

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Gaston said there was a lot of pressure taking on the role of John Stamos as Uncle Jesse: "He is a very iconic person," the actor explained. "And it's a very iconic character. Uncle Jesse — I mean, everyone loves Uncle Jesse, so it's a lot."

More: The Full House men reunite on Jimmy Fallon and it's awesome

No doubt the premiere of the film on Aug. 22 did nothing to help that pressure as the original cast fired away on Twitter.

Andrea Barber Lifetime's Full House reaction tweet

Andrea Barber Lifetime's Full House reaction tweet

Candace Cameron-Bure Lifetime's Full House tweet

Candace Cameron-Bure Lifetime's Full House tweet

But Stamos took the high road, actually showing support for Gaston.

John Stamos Lifetime's Full House reaction tweet

John Stamos Lifetime's Full House reaction tweet

And despite Stamos' at least tolerance of the film, Gaston said he hadn't spoken with the actor he was playing prior to the movie's release.

More: Lori Loughlin: Bad timing thwarted love with John Stamos

When we asked if Stamos had reached out to him at all, Gaston responded, "No, no, he never did."

"I guess I can understand," Gaston said of the original cast's hesitation to support Lifetime's unauthorized version of their story. "I mean, you don't know what's going to be in there. But it really is a positive outlook on the show and the characters and just kind of honoring one of the best shows ever created."

"You know, from what I understand, and even making the movie, it really was a close-knit, family-type cast," Gaston added. "I think they're still all friends because they're doing Fuller House. I honestly don't think there was that much drama, you know. You do get to see what they were struggling with personally, with their families or their love life and things like that."

But overall, Gaston thought the original stars wouldn't have much to complain about in how the unauthorized story version depicts them. And, while they weren't exactly complaining, it unfortunately wasn't a warm reception.

More: Full House: Where would the Tanner family be now?

Don't worry if you missed last night's premiere. You can watch The Unauthorized Full House Story tonight at 8/7c on Lifetime.

Tell us what you thought of the movie. Did it deserve the hate from the cast that it received?

One Direction fans are breaking Twitter following a shocking announcement

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More: Dad does the unthinkable to win daughters One Direction tickets

That's the collective despair of millions of One Direction fans worldwide after the famed boy band reportedly decided to take a one-year hiatus so its members can focus on solo projects.

As a source told The Sun, "The guys have been together for five years, which is an incredible run for any boy band. They fully deserve to have at least a year to work on their own projects. There is absolutely no bad blood between them and they are all 100 percent behind the decision. It is definitely not a split and they fully intend to get back together at some time in the future. But for now it is the end and they go out on top as the world’s most popular music act."

More: Stephen Hawking's comments about humanity will inspire your whole life

Remember when N*Sync went on hiatus? Justin Timberlake skyrocketed to solo artist fame and the band never got back together. It's already been a big transition year for 1D, with Zayn Malik leaving the band and Louis Tomlinson becoming a daddy. Obviously, rumors are rampant that this spells the end for the "Drag Me Down" singers.

And One Direction fans, who basically run Twitter at this point, practically made the social media site implode with all their feelings.

One Direction Twitter implosion 1

One Direction Twitter implosion 1

One Direction Twitter implosion 2

One Direction Twitter implosion 2

One Direction Twitter implosion 3

One Direction Twitter implosion 3

One Direction Twitter implosion 4

One Direction Twitter implosion 4

More: Louis Tomlinson is going to be a dad! 10 Things to know about his baby mama

Do you think One Direction will emerge from this hiatus an even stronger boy band? Or do you think the boys are letting their (oftentimes hysterical) fans down easy by taking their breakup in baby steps? Head down to the comments and sound off.

Jessa Duggar's latest Instagram post looks like it's directed at Josh

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More: Why the Duggars are way worse role models than the Kardashians

The reality star and sister of Josh Duggar posted a pretty poignant image to her Instagram Sunday, showing a Bible passage that sounds an awful lot like it may be directed toward her errant brother.

“If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth,” it reads. “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.”

Jessa Duggar's instagram appears directed at Josh

Jessa Duggar's instagram appears directed at Josh

Sounds like some appropriate advice for Josh, who has admitted to quite the string of sins lately.

More: Jessa Duggar reportedly blames sex scandal for ruining her first pregnancy

The verse in the post continues, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Josh, who admitted in May that he molested a number of underage girls as a teenager, including Jessa and at least one other of his sisters, admitted Aug. 20 to cheating on his wife as well.

“I am so ashamed of the double life that I have been living and am grieved for the hurt, pain and disgrace my sin has caused my wife and family, and most of all Jesus and all those who profess faith in Him,” he wrote in a statement on the Duggar family website, also calling himself "the biggest hypocrite ever."

Jessa, who is expecting her first child with husband Ben Seewald, has kept quiet since Josh's latest admission of transgressions, and she makes no indication this passage was directed at him — though the timing and subject matter seem a little too pointed to be coincidental.

More: Jessa Duggar's ultrasound has fans convinced double trouble is on the way

What do you think? Do you think Jessa had Josh in mind when she posted this verse? Head down to the comments and share your thoughts.

Love horoscopes: Aug. 24 – Aug. 30

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taures

gemini

cancer

leo

virgo

libra

scorpio

sagittarius

capricorn

aquarius

pisces

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ARIES (March 20-April 19)

You're tired of running to your lover's emotional rescue. You've been there for him 24/7 and are wondering what has he done for you lately? That's a good question, but before you answer it you should know that you aren't the easiest person in the world to impress. You're so self-sufficient and independent that it doesn't allow your lover to show off what he can do. Try to come up with something that he can do for you that would really be special on Aug. 27. It gives him a chance to step up to the plate.

Next: Taurus horoscope

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TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

"Soul mate" is a tricky term because technically speaking it's not a one-on-one exclusive. Souls transcend bodies which means that your soul could potentially "mate" with just about anyone on the planet. It's our bodies that are bound to each other through attraction, wants and needs – not our souls. Now this may sound like metaphysical hair-splitting, but it might explain why you keep searching without really finding. Try being a bit less out-of-body in your approach and more down to earth on Aug. 26 when the sun conjoins Jupiter in the zodiac sign of Virgo. You may attain what you're looking for.

Next: Gemini horoscope

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GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

You're not used to someone being there for you so you'll be delighted to discover that the guy you're seeing is Johnny-on-the-spot. Maybe it's a tweet every hour on the hour asking how you're doing or an offer to get together after you've finished with a particularly grueling meeting. In any case this will lead you to re-evaluate your feelings and maybe give him more of a chance to win your heart. As a Gemini, you're accustomed to having all the answers so it makes for a nice change of pace to be with someone who can surprise you.

Next: Cancer horoscope

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CANCER (June 21-July 21)

Your heart and your head couldn't be more divided which is why you don't want to push yourself now. You're being pressured into making some larger-than-life decisions. Unfortunately you don't really have anything substantive to counterbalance all of this with other than some vague feeling that you might be better off somewhere else. Whether this is a true pull or wishful thinking is hard to tell. In any case you should wait until after the Full Moon on Aug. 29 when it looks like your heart and your head will be back on the same page again.

Next: Leo horoscope

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LEO (July 22-Aug. 22)

Single Leos may be wondering if being on your own isn't such a bad idea. Your money is yours, your bed is yours, and your future is yours. What do you need a man for — other than the obvious? Well, it looks as if the universe will be taking you up on this "dare" over the next few weeks by introducing somebody into your life who is completely unlike the type of fellow you ever envisioned yourself being with. In fact, he may be so totally different as to be unrecognizable. And that's precisely the point.

Next: Virgo horoscope

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VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

A chance meeting on Aug. 26 feels intensely profound. This could be someone who's a friend of a friend or a customer that you get to chatting with. In any case, you know that there's a connection and that you both feel it. But no sooner do you exchange names and numbers than he will be whisked away by pressing business or a not-too-pleased girlfriend. Nevertheless there is a bond and you will see him again after the Jupiter/Neptune opposition on Sept. 16. This marks the start of a romantic adventure that will totally turn your life around.

Next: Libra horoscope

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

The next two weeks are pivotal because the planets are pushing you to be the person you were always meant to be. This doesn't mean you have to do anything radical with your life. In fact all the radical changes have already been made. What's going on is the culmination of a personal growth process that began months ago. You know you are always strongest in a pair and if you're in a relationship now then that means this person is a keeper. If not? Then you need to jettison this also-ran in order to find your true match.

Next: Scorpio horoscope

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SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

A dramatic upset in your lover's life throws you both for a loop this week. This could pertain to a health matter, his job performance or negligent bookkeeping. You will want to muzzle your own reactions especially since you warned him to be more vigilant and your warnings went unheeded. But are you really going to tell him "I told you so?" Yes. You're a Scorpio. In any case you need to know that he knows that he screwed up and he'll want to do better. Help him to salvage the situation by being supportive and encouraging.

Next: Sagittarius horoscope

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 -Dec. 20)

It feels like you can't do anything right these days and guess what? You can't. Now this doesn't mean that you're the one making mistakes. What it means is that a loved one doesn't know what he wants which is why he keeps moving the goal posts by changing the rules and expectations. Do yourself a favor and stop trying to make things better. The sooner you stop, the sooner he will realize that he is like a rudderless ship going in circles. Then (and only then) can you start to have a conversation about plotting a future course.

Next: Capricorn horoscope

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 21-Jan. 19)

You'll want to eat, drink and be merry this week when the sun conjoins Jupiter — the party planet — in that part of your solar chart that rules over good times. It's not every day when you let yourself go wild and considering all of the last-minute saves and dramatic resurrections you had to perform this summer, you deserve to celebrate your good fortune. You're riding a wave of popularity so go ahead and drink in the praises of well-wishers and admirers. One in particular will want to express his gushing admiration in private over the weekend.

Next: Aquarius horoscope

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 17)

Aquarius is an air sign and air signs are the people pleasers of the zodiac. Every relationship in your life is special. You will fret over your dog walker feeling supported in his life choices as much as you'll fret over your lover or spouse. It's great to be so egalitarian, but sometimes you have to be reminded that a dog walker is a dog walker and that your spouse is your spouse. Thank heavens the full moon in Pisces this weekend will show you that a certain someone in your life should always come first.

Next: Pisces horoscope

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PISCES (Feb. 18-March 19)

On Aug. 26, the sun will form a conjunction to your ruling planet Jupiter in Virgo. This should mark the end of a months' long search to find the right mate. Chances are you've had your ups and downs, your ins and outs, but if that guy you've been seeing is still on the scene then consider him a keeper. And for you single Pisces people who are still fishing — don't despair. Jupiter in the part of your solar chart that pertains to relationships shows that you will either be married or living with someone by this time next year.

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8 Celebrities who actually did some good this week

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Between Jenelle Evans getting arrested for the 16th time, Kim Zolciak glorifying the thigh gap, Amy Poehler making a tasteless joke about Beyonce's 3-year-old daughter Blue Ivy and the Duggars just... well, being the Duggars, it felt like there was a neverending stream of bad, horrible, no-good stories in the news. But in reality, we were just letting the bad outweigh the good, because there were quite a few stars doing pretty awesome things this week.

Instead of continuing to talk about all the scandals the Ashley Madison hack is causing (we can continue those discussions at another time), let's take a few minutes to read about and applaud those who did something positive for the world in the past seven days:

Serinda Swan

To kick off the list of this week's do-gooders, we're starting with Graceland's Serinda Swan. In a recent interview, Swan told us why using her voice to educate fans about sex trafficking is so important to her, but on Saturday, she jumped out of a plane from 18,000 feet – which is the absolute highest tandem jump you can do – to raise awareness and money for The Girl2B Foundation's anti sex trafficking campaign. Not only did Swan help raise over $50,000, she taught her followers that even one dollar can make a huge difference in sex trafficking survivors' lives.

Serinda Swan 18for18

Serinda Swan 18for18

More: How Annalynne McCord saved a young girl's life (EXCLUSIVE)

5 Seconds of Summer's Michael Clifford

On Wednesday, Michael Clifford revealed that he had some problems with his mental health and needed to see a therapist "real quick" during the band's short hiatus. Fans flooded him with words of support and thanks for sharing his very personal struggles, and we applaud him for helping rid mental health issues of their negative stigmas.

Michael Clifford fans react 3

Michael Clifford fans react 3

More: Channing Tatum retires from stripping and focuses on saving lives (EXCLUSIVE)

Farrah Abraham

Yes, she actually did something positive this week by dedicating #WomanCrushWednesday to herself! Her #WCW post did receive some backlash, but haters gonna hate! We think all women should have crushes on themselves, whether they've had plastic surgery or not. Self-love is self-love, and seeing a celebrity promote that is A-OK with us.

Farrah Abraham wcw tweets

Farrah Abraham wcw tweets

Ellen Page

Oh, how we love Ellen Page so. The actress dressed incognito and crashed an event attended by presidential hopeful Ted Cruz to question him on his LGBT and religious liberty beliefs. The two went back and forth discussing the segregation the LGBTQ community is experiencing, and even better: Ted Cruz had no idea who she was, and the whole thing was caught on camera.

J.K. Rowling

OK, her twitter is always a gold mine, but this week the author outdid herself. Proving that she reads all her tweets, Rowling took the time to give one of her fans some truly inspiring advice about following her dreams and ignoring the haters. It's something we could all learn from.

JK Rowling fan's tweet

JK Rowling fan's tweet

John Cena

Who knew WWE superstars could be so good? The Make-A-Wish Foundation announced that John Cena granted his 500th wish by meeting an 8-year-old boy from Queens, New York, who's battling a life-threatening medical condition. Cena didn't promote the huge milestone himself, but Make-A-Wish posted an adorable photo and sweet message thanking the wrestler for all he's done.

Make-A-Wish thanks John Cena

Make-A-Wish thanks John Cena

Rowan Blanchard

The Girl Meets World star blew us away this week after a fan asked for her opinion on the term "white feminism." Proving that she has taken ample time to educate herself on the issues surrounding women, race and equality, Blanchard shared her perspective on feminism and encouraged her fans to keep talking about important issues because "discussion leads to change."

More: Feminist Ian Somerhalder explains how the world is failing women

Bryce Dallas Howard

I am never dieting again, thanks to Bryce Dallas Howard. During an interview with People magazine, Howard discussed her past experiences with dieting and shared her current opinion of it, saying it's the "worst thing you can every do for yourself... it disconnects yourself from your body and your body's wisdom." Howard continued to explain how reading inspired her to change her eating habits and accept and appreciate her body for what it is.

Sadie Frost

Just say no to fighting aging: That's the message I got while reading Sadie Frost's comments on being 50 years old versus being 20 years old. When asked about the aging process, Frost discussed the derogatory questions she's been asked in her "older" years. Not only that, but she made aging sound awesome by explaining more years equals more wisdom and experience, which only enables you to enjoy life that much more.

celebs made difference for fans slideshow

Who inspired you this week? Share in the comments below!

Girl Meets World's Rowan Blanchard's take on feminism is spot-on

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More: Feminist Tinder is the perfect response to the world's misogynistic jerks

Girl Meets World actress Rowan Blanchard, 13, is leading the next generation, and she's starting with an incredible thorough and insightful breakdown of modern feminism on her Tumblr.

She wrote the post to answer a fan, who wrote to her, "Row, i wanted to ask your opinion on the term 'white feminism' and how common feminism might exclude women of color and non cis/queer women (ex: women are stonger bc they have periods! or men dont have to think about how they dress when in public!)"

Blanchard responded with an in-depth explanation of how feminism is interpreted differently by people of all races and genders and said that all of those voices are important to bring to the discussion.

More: These "feminist" men are giving all men a bad name

"'White feminism' forgets all about intersectional feminism," she wrote. "The way a black woman experiences sexism and inequality is different from the way a white woman experiences sexism and inequality. Likewise with trans-women and Hispanic women. While white women are making 78 cents to the dollar, Native American women are making 65 cents, black women are making 64 cents, and Hispanic women are making 54 cents. Kimberlé Crenshaw said it perfectly in 1989 when she said 'The view that women experience oppression in varying configurations and in varying degrees of intensity. Cultural patterns of oppression are not only interrelated, but are bound together and influenced by the intersectional systems of society. Examples of this include race, gender, class, ability, and ethnicity.' This includes trans women especially, who have been robbed of their souls when they are told they are not 'real women' It is SO important to protect trans women and trans youth as they are incredibly at risk when it comes to sexual assault and hate crimes. People also seem to forget that black women are victims of police violence too- from Sandra Bland to India Clarke- a trans woman who was beaten to death in Florida just a month ago."

Blanchard ends her post by saying, "To only acknowledge feminism from a one sided view when the literal DEFINITION is the equality of the sexes is not feminism at all. We need to be talking about this more. Discussion leads to change. Xo, Row."

More: Chvrches' Lauren Mayberry highlights online sexism and misogyny

You can read Blanchard's post in its entirety here, and then head down to the comments and share your thoughts on her views of feminism.


Teen Mom's Catelynn Lowell and Tyler Baltierra finally tie the knot

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More: Farrah Abraham gets attacked after posting naked #WCW photo

Teen Mom OG stars Catelynn Lowell and Tyler Baltierra are finally, officially hitched.

Us Weekly confirmed over the weekend that the couple, who have been dating since they were in the seventh grade, said their "I do's" in a private ceremony Saturday in Charlevoix, Michigan.

"I believe Cate was brought into this world and destined to be loved by me, cherished by me, admired by me, and forever cared for by me," 23-year-old Tyler told the site. "There is no one else I would rather be than her husband and the father of her children... I’m so honored and blessed to be able to grow old with her."

Lowell, also 23, chimed in: "I always prayed one day that Ty would be my husband, and I am beyond blessed that my prayers came true."

More: Maci Bookout gets muddy to flaunt her post-baby body (PHOTOS)

According to Us, 154 people attended the nondenominational ceremony, including family, friends and plenty of Teen Mom co-stars: Amber Portwood and her fiancé, Matt Baier; Maci Bookout with fiancé Taylor McKinney, son Bentley and daughter Jayde; and Teen Mom 2's Kailyn Lowry and her husband, Javi Marroquin.

Also on hand to help celebrate was Catelynn and Tyler's daughter, Carly, along with her adoptive parents. The couple's 8-month-old daughter, Nova Reign, was the flower girl.

While Catelynn has been pretty quiet on social media (no doubt because she's enjoying marital bliss), Tyler took to Instagram to share a handful of snaps of the special day, including one of him and his dad, Butch, looking dapper in their tuxedos.

Catelynn Lowell and Tyler Baltierra finally get married

Catelynn Lowell and Tyler Baltierra finally get married

Catelynn and Tyler had called off their wedding once before, in 2013, when Tyler admitted he wasn't ready to tie the knot. We're so excited it finally happened!

More: Maci Bookout's fans are threatening to unfollow her over new pic (PHOTO)

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Weekly horoscopes: Aug. 24–30

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aries

taures

gemini

cancer

leo

virgo

libra

scorpio

sagittarius

capricorn

aquarius

pisces

More on horoscopes

Weekly love horoscopes: Aug. 24–30

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ARIES (March 20-April 19)

Say yes to any offer, bid or settlement that you receive this week. Now it won't be everything you had hoped for, but then you don't want to push your luck when Jupiter, the planet of good fortune, is involved. It would be like stopping a gift horse in its tracks to examine its dental work. Besides, what you see isn't always what you get, and chances are you won't really appreciate the value of what you're looking at until the fall. By then it will be perfectly obvious that you were handed the deal of a lifetime.

Next: Taurus horoscope

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TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Compare where you are now to where you were a year ago, and you will see how much you have grown as a person. Not only are you more confident and expressive, but you have truly been seasoned by your experiences. This will give you an authority and authenticity that you really haven't had before. You will see it on Thursday when a thorny predicament raises its ugly head, and you are forced to make a judgment call on the spot. Do what you feel is right, and you will see people step into line behind you.

Next: Gemini horoscope

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GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

This week is the perfect time to start a new diet or exercise regimen. The Mercury/Saturn sextile on Aug. 26 allows you to step outside of the negative mindset and to appraise what needs to be done. No more excuses or giving into force of habit. Virgo industry combined with Saturn in Scorpio discipline ensures that you will achieve your objective. This planetary combination is also good for reorganizing the working pattern of your life. You will be able to take a look at the things that are working for you — and against — and to prioritize accordingly.

Next: Cancer horoscope

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CANCER (June 21-July 21)

Colleagues don't seem to appreciate how critical things are getting at work. You've seen the signs for a while now, and you've done your level best to alert them to the changes that they need to make in both their attitudes and their approach. It's frustrating because they'll improve for a week or two before reverting to their somnambulist ways. You may have to accept that you did everything in your power to rouse them from their slumber, and you should just let things unfold the way that they're going to anyway. You can't save people from themselves.

Next: Leo horoscope

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LEO (July 22-Aug. 22)

Win-win situations are rarely all that. Now this isn't because someone is trying to pull the wool over your eyes. Chances are that the person approaching you with this once-in-a-lifetime offer really does believe in what he's selling. However, it's wise to peruse details closely when the sun conjoins Jupiter in Virgo. In fact, you may discover stipulations that could prove unfavorable. They don't have to be deal breakers, but you will want to sit down and discuss these points one by one. If the other party's amenable — great! If not? Then skip this venture all together.

Next: Virgo horoscope

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VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

You were born under an earth sign, which means that you need to see tangible results at the end of the day. They don't have to be substantial to be substantive. They just have to be there. Your insistence on always having something to show for your efforts can strike people as demanding and even hard-nosed, but there's no denying that this bottom-line thinking is responsible for your material success. This is something that will be abundantly obvious when the sun conjoins Jupiter in Virgo on Aug. 26 when you pull off yet another extraordinary coup.

Next: Libra horoscope

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Jupiter is passing through that part of your solar horoscope that pertains to endings. This is a "closer" type of energy, so you'll want to wrap things up, tie up loose ends and take care of any unfinished business that could trip you up. Now you may think that all the i's are dotted and every t is crossed, but the Mercury/Saturn sextile on Aug. 26 will get you to think again. There are hints that you are not as free and clear as you imagine yourself to be, and it would be wise for you to clue in.

Next: Scorpio horoscope

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SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

You'll be rubbing shoulders with the powers that be this week. You couldn't ask for a more propitious time to pitch a project, ask for a promotion or negotiate a salary. People in high places will happily advance your interests. But make sure you know what you're getting into ahead of time. Sometimes your eyes can be bigger than your stomach when you have this much Jupiter energy coursing through your horoscope, and you don't want to bite off more than you can chew. It pays to have a realistic assessment of your abilities and of your capacity to deliver.

Next: Sagittarius horoscope

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 -Dec. 20)

It's time to signal to those who assumed that you were down for the count that you're back in business. The sun/Jupiter conjunction on Aug. 26 brings good news pertaining to wealth and prosperity. This is when you seal the deal or reap a healthy return on a shrewd investment. The conjunction will also bring good news about a health matter. Either you will learn that your concerns were much ado about nothing or that whatever ails you will prove to be infinitely manageable. This gives you the cosmic green light to move ahead with your most ambitious plans yet.

Next: Capricorn horoscope

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 21-Jan. 19)

Faith isn't something that comes easily for you. Born under Saturn, the planet of doubt, it's easier to poke holes in the intelligent design than it is for you to believe that there might actually be a mysterious reason for why things happen the way that they do. Yet you can feel in your gut that your life is changing. The planets are signaling that it's time for you to break out, to change direction or to move on. Stop clinging to timeworn routines because they really are looking threadbare and ill-fitting. You need to live, live, live!

Next: Aquarius horoscope

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 17)

Meet with a financial consultant early in the week. Your money could be doing a lot more for you, and it looks like this person will have some exciting and innovative ideas. Virgo is the zodiac sign of the bean counter, and an auspicious sextile involving Mercury in Virgo and Saturn in Scorpio shows that a detailed, leave-no-decimal-point-unturned approach will lead you to find a way to maximize resources. This could even result in a refund or rebate on Sept. 23. In any case, it's clear that you have been sitting on your assets for too long.

Next: Pisces horoscope

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PISCES (Feb. 18-March 19)

Aug. 26 could turn out to be one of the best days of the year for you. The sun/Jupiter conjunction brings the release from a long-standing debt or obligation, a ruling that is decided in your favor or someone who will finally deliver on a promise. It won't transform your world (like winning the lottery might), but it will bring to an end a long and meandering journey. Some people say that the journey is more important than the destination, but given what you've been through these past few months, you'll just be happy to cross the finish line.

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Mayim Bialik opens up on social justice, feminism and her 'inner nerd'

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She talked to SheKnows about getting her geek on with her new site, Grok Nation, a sneak peek at the next season of Big Bang and more.

SheKnows: Can you explain a little bit about how Grok Nation came to be?

Mayim Bialik: Much as I have a very busy and exciting life, the fact is I would like to have a life that is more than just an actor. Honestly, especially as actresses get toward 40 and beyond, parts get harder and harder to get. And there are a lot of other things I'm interested in and interested in doing, and writing has been one of them for years. The notion was to try and combine all the different facets of me with a platform where I had sort of more creative control over what else was on the site. And also the ability to write about a wider variety of things than I have been at my home at Kveller. So, you know, the notion that I'm a real-life nerd that loves Star Wars and superheroes didn't really have a home at Kveller, but it does at Grok Nation.

SK: What are some of the things you'll be covering at Grok Nation?

MB: I'm trying to cover social justice issues, topics in the news — not because I'm a celebrity and everyone should listen to me, but because if I do have a platform where people might be hearing about these for the first time (especially young people), I think it's really important to educate people about causes that should interest us, but also organizations that are working to be resources.

MoreSarah Michelle Gellar shares how she's raising a little girl with 'future slayer' potential

SK: For those who don't know what "grok" is, could you explain it?

MB: The word comes from the science fiction novel Stranger in a Strange Land, and for a certain generation of people, we know that word as 'deeply and intimately understanding something.' It's more than just understanding something. It's sort of becoming one with it through your understanding. There are a lot of ways to name a site when a celebrity is spearheading it, and what all the companies that advise you tell you is that young people like nonsense words, or they like your name. But the site isn't going to just be me writing; the idea is to get more interesting voices on the site, so I didn't want to name it after me. We like the idea that we're trying to inspire a way of thinking and a way of approaching things that is different. People have said that I have the ability to point out the nuance in the mundane and make the mundane profound, and that kind of thinking is something available to everyone, and that's what we're trying to appeal to with this word "grok."

SK: Many celebrities have lifestyle blogs. Where do you see yourself fitting in there?

MB: Lifestyle blogs seem more consumer based, and I don't mean that to be critical. For a lot of people — and a lot of women in particular — things to buy and ways to look trendy are really important to them. I don't put down those people or have judgment about that; I'm just not that kind of person. What we wanted to do with this website was sort of the phrase "for people who collect thoughts and not things." Our site is basically a literary site, and we plan to have a video component, so we're trying to appeal to a TED talk kind of feel.

SK: It's clear that feminism plays a big role at Grok Nation, and I love that you're not shying away from it.

MB: We weren't even sure what to call the women's section, because there are men interested in feminism! In the pieces that I've tried to put out there and will continue to put out there, I'm trying to shy away from those conversations that are superficial, like, "do you shave your legs or not?"

I wrote a piece that literally defines first-, second- and third-wave feminism, just so we all know what we're talking about when we talk about it. I think it's important, because I think we get caught up in "do you wear lipstick or don't you?" and that's not really what the women's movement is really about. Those are superficial things that are fun to talk about, but I think the Rose McGowan piece that I wrote tried to get at the "grokability" of these issues. Like, what's it really about? What's really happening here? It was hard to write that piece! The fact is, that's what it looks like when we have skewed visions of women in my industry. What does it look like in your industry?

More: Father fights to keep birth control out of his grown daughters' hands

The true movement of feminism was about race, class and gender, and not about individual women and who they're having sex with and how. Of course that was part of the conversation, but the idea was to break the bonds of race, class and gender, and that's really what we need to keep fighting for.

SK: I love how nuanced you are about feminism, and glad you have the platform to share it.

MB: I feel like there are so many people out there saying the same thing much better. We want to link to organizations that are actually doing things about this, instead of making it like, "oh, Mayim Bialik talked about this and now it's interesting." These things have always been interesting and important, and if I can use this platform to put those issues out there in a bigger way, I want to give props to those people who have been doing and talking about this for years and actually are advocating for individuals and not just tweeting about it.

MoreAsk a Raging Feminist: What's your theme song?

SK: I have to ask, what Big Bang Theory scoop can you give us?

MB: We've only done two episodes. We deal head-on with the conflict between Amy and Sheldon in these first two episodes. What's interesting is that in the third episode, we don't have any scenes together at all! We're not a soap opera — we can't deal with it every single week. But the first two episodes are a pretty big start to the season.

Courtney Love gets attacked for haunting message about Kurt Cobain (PHOTO)

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The Hole front woman posted a haunting photo to her Instagram showing a young Love and her husband Kurt Cobain with their infant daughter, Frances Bean. The caption for the photo shows she might have been having a particularly difficult day dealing with his absence.

She captioned the picture, "Makes me feel so bad. Our baby is all grown up now. Jesus Kurt look at her face, what on earth were you thinking..!?!? God I miss you, we all miss you #family #memories #turnbacktime #lovehim"

Courtney Love throwback pic

Courtney Love throwback pic

It didn't take long for people to turn on the nostalgic mother and get that conspiracy mill turning at top speed. And they weren't pulling any punches.

As of now there are more than 3,000 comments, and skimming through them reveals most of them are hateful messages from people who believe (very emphatically) that Love murdered her dead rocker husband.

More: 4 times Lana Del Ray acted freakishly like Courtney Love

Some very succinctly say, "Judgement day will come." Or, "Murderer."

Others provide much more lengthy notes, which maybe reveal a bit of their tinfoil hats in the process.

One commenter said, "Idk Courtney maybe he was thinking how he needed to get his child away from a junkie whore mother to raise her in a more wholesome environment… They have a special place in hell picked out for you, murdering whore! Rot in hell!!! We all know what you did and cannot wait until you are found out! You murdered a musical genius all for what? Some money that he will never let you have??? What was he thinking??? Bet it was 'how could the mother of my child and my wife do something like this to me?' WHY COURTNEY WHY?????"

More: Courtney Love held hostage in Paris by angry mob

Conspiracy theories have existed almost since the day Cobain shot himself in April of 1994. Most conclude that Love did him in herself because he was going to leave her, and point to the last lines of his suicide note as proof.

There were a few comments that seemed a bit more rational and less delusional. One person said, "Yes a bipolar heroin junkie with a pervious [sic] history of suicide must have been murdered, he just had to be." While I'm sure he meant suicide attempts, we get his point.

And while I love a good conspiracy theory myself, the level of hatred Love is getting on her post seems unusually harsh even for internet trolls.

The photo is beautiful. And of course, tragic.

More: Courtney Love and Frances Bean may actually like being a family

Anna Duggar's brother wages full-on war with Josh and his defenders (PHOTOS)

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Things got heated in the comment section of a photo posted by Jessa Duggar when Josh's brother-in-law, Daniel Keller, entered the conversation to wage war with Josh and all of the fans who support him.

More: Amy Duggar makes surprising statement about Josh Duggar molestation scandal

Keller responded to Jessa's post, which was a photo of a bible passage about forgiveness taken to be in support of Josh in the wake of him being outed as a user of the cheating site, Ashley Madison, with "You have to confess and forsake your sin for mercy. Not sin confess and repeat."

Daniel Keller

Though Keller's original post is fairly benign, it's clear his loyalty lies with his sister and Josh's wife, Anna Duggar. Keller's comments became more aggressive, however, as Duggar fans rushed to Josh's defense.

Keller didn't take kindly to those who suggested that he sins, just as Josh does, so he should be more forgiving, and was perturbed by fan comments that said that he wasn't thinking of the victims before making anti-Josh comments.

Daniel Keller

Daniel Keller

Keller admitted that he's been desperately trying to get Anna away from Josh, while his parents are pushing her to stay with him for religious reasons. He also suggested that Josh's troubles are far from over.

Daniel Keller

Daniel Keller

Daniel Keller

Keller wasn't the only one offended by Jessa's original post. Followers quickly attacked Jessa for posting the passage, mostly saying the Duggar clan shouldn't be so quick to absolve Josh of his sins. Comments ranged from "Im [sic] so relieved! I can molest children, cheat on my spouse, lie and cover up my double life and attack others and STILL get into heaven! #winning," to "Barf. Good bye [sic]. You all are crazy," and "Don't forget to quote Leviticus - both the adulator and adulteress shall be put to death. Oh wait, do we only quote Leviticus when justifying our hatred for the lgbt community? Haha, stupid bimbo."

What do you think? Did Keller go too far in his comments or is it noble of him to come to his sister's defense?

Images: Jessa Seewald/Daniel Keller/Facebook

Black bears are roaming residential areas — learn how to protect your home

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However, this is not an isolated incident. Homes have encroached into forested areas, and over the years there have been numerous reports about bears venturing onto residential properties. Just last week, a mother bear and her five cubs made their way onto a Rockaway Township home in New Jersey to take a dip in the family's pool.

While black bears are not naturally aggressive, they can be, especially when a mother is with her cubs. So it is important to be aware of the safety precautions to help avoid conflicts.

More: This baby black bear cuddle fest is here to save your day (VIDEO)

Avoid human-bear conflicts

Bears tend to be attracted to residential areas by the smell of human food, Wild Safe BC reports. Thus, it is important to remove any outdoor food from the property, including bird feeders and fruit on trees, and to ensure proper storage of your garbage — always use certified bear-resistant garbage containers, and keep the garbage indoors until collection day.

Clean your barbecue grills, don't store food outside (including in freezers), and do not place bones, cooked food, eggshells or fish in compost. And always feed your pets indoors and store their food inside.

Remember, bears are opportunistic animals and want to consume whatever is readily available to them. After several failed attempts at finding food around homes, bears should go back to their natural environment.

More: What to do if your house-trained dog starts peeing indoors

Understand bear behaviour

You should also distinguish threatening behaviour from non-aggressive. If a bear stands on its hind legs, this is usually because it is trying to smell the surroundings or to get a better view; this is seldom a threatening reaction, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries reports. Whereas jaw-popping and huffing tend to be nervous behaviours.

Never run if you encounter a bear

If you do come face to face with a bear at your home, then you should stay calm and slowly back away while facing the bear, and as you move away, make noise to let the bear discover your presence, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries reports.

Give the bear room to escape (they seldom tend to attack unless they feel cornered), and do not run or make any sudden movement. Also, try to make yourself look as big as possible by waving your arms, but do not appear too aggressive, as this may intimidate some bears. Avoid eye contact.

In the rare case that a black bear does attack, fight back with any object available: sticks, rocks or even your bare hands.

Megan Fox, Brian Austin Green's divorce details are pretty surprising

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The Transformers actress filed for divorce from her husband of five years on Friday, but sources tell TMZ that the move will not entirely free her from her soon-to-be-ex — at least, not her pocketbook. Because of the huge disparity in their incomes at the time of filing, Fox will probably have to pay Green a huge amount of alimony.

Back in December, the couple was in a horrible car accident caused by a drunk driver who hit them head-on. While the couple escaped uninjured, the crash triggered a serious case of vertigo in Green. He had a big role in Charlie Sheen's show Anger Management for the previous two years, but he hasn't worked since — meaning he has zero income.

More: A timeline of Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green's relationship, pre-split

Fox, on the other hand, has two big movies coming out in the coming months: Zeroville, costarring James Franco, Will Ferrell and Seth Rogen, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2.

Green's vertigo is reportedly so bad that he is unable to get out of bed most days, and has only been seen in public twice in recent months.

The actor has not yet filed his response to Fox's divorce petition.

More: Celebrity divorces and breakups: Here's how staged they really are

Celebrity divorces in 2015


The Mamafesto: When custody battles make breastfeeding nearly impossible

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It was only after her son, Brian, was born that she realized how beneficial and important breastfeeding could be for him. It was also then that her relationship with Brian's father fell apart and she found herself in an all-too-familiar situation for nursing moms in a custody battle: She realized how much she would have to fight to continue breastfeeding.

A social worker from Baltimore, Maryland, Lynn became pregnant while in a rocky patch with her boyfriend, "A." A had wanted Lynn to terminate the pregnancy, something she was unwilling to do. However, they managed to work through it and were together for most of the pregnancy before problems arose. "While A had been fairly attentive during the pregnancy in spite of his initial hesitation with going through with it, he was not at all supportive during labor and delivery," Lynn tells SheKnows. "He regularly became frustrated that I wasn’t paying attention to him. That attitude prevailed during Brian’s first few days at home."

Their first big postpartum argument resulted in the police coming when Brian was just a few weeks old. The couple fought a lot, and while most of it related to money and household responsibilities, some of it was about Lynn's breastfeeding. "I experienced some challenges with breastfeeding early on," she says, "but A thought that I should 'just give up and use formula' rather than buying a pump, until I was able to demonstrate the clear savings involved in buying a pump."

More: The Mamafesto: What moms need to know about breast milk banks

Unfortunately a handful of other threatening and dangerous events occurred, and Lynn eventually filed an order of protection and had A removed from her house. Things moved quickly from there. She was surprised with a petition for full physical and legal custody of her son. At that point, Brian was not quite 9 months old, but A and his family were trying to fully remove him from his mother's care.

"He was still nursing," Lynn explains. "But the courts didn’t seem to think that was a valid reason for me to have custody of my son." Lynn spent the rest of her summer working full time, pumping while working, interviewing potential attorneys, going to court and transporting her son to and from day care. During this time, A started having three-hour visits one weekend day a month, which eventually became overnight visits from Friday to Sunday before Brian turned 2.

At one point, Lynn was pumping to provide milk for both day care and visitation. She found little support anywhere. "It's a constant uphill battle when everyone around you is questioning your unwavering commitment to your child and telling you that you should stop doing the most natural thing you've ever done to provide your baby with comfort and nutrition," Lynn laments. She felt that during the whole process, the court system was less than receptive to preserving her breastfeeding relationship with Brian.

"There was a ton of pressure to wean him, from both of our lawyers, and from A and his parents," says Lynn, who also mentioned that even the judge was less than supportive. "It was a constant battle to promote breastfeeding and ensure that A would at least provide Brian with the pumped milk."

More: The Mamafesto: Working moms tell us about pumping breast milk on the job

When it came to the pumping, Lynn faced a whole new set of challenges. Her milk production slowed down since she wasn't always able to feed Brian when needed. "I don't make enough to send very much with him on visits, but he continues to nurse upon waking, before a nap, at bedtime and in stressful situations when he is with me."

Although she did manage to continue a nursing relationship up until her son was 2, Lynn lost her job due to the stress (she has since found another), and she's speaking out to warn other moms of just how hard it can be.

She isn't the only one: There have been other cases where the courts have intervened when it comes to separations and breastfeeding. In 2013, for example, mother Jessica Moser made national news when she was ordered by the court to stop breastfeeding her 10-month-old daughter so her ex could have an overnight with the baby. In Moser's case, the penalty for not stopping to nurse would be the risk of losing custody of her child. Both Moser and Lynn not only had to deal with the usual challenges that can impact nursing moms, but ones that many of us never foresee or even imagine, and unfortunately they're not alone.

More: The Mamafesto: 5 Things breastfeeding moms need from the rest of us

When asked what she has learned from all of this, Lynn is incredibly emphatic: "Go to meetings with lawyers armed with information," she urges. "It would be much more difficult for me to advocate for breastfeeding now with an almost 3-year-old, but my son was 9 months old when court proceedings started — he hadn’t even really tasted solid food yet, so I was his sole source of nutrition."

Lynn also suggests learning about the laws in your state. "Other states limit visitation with young, nursing infants and do not allow overnight visits until a child is 2 to 3 years old, or in some states they don’t go away overnight until they’re school-age, which is not the case in Maryland. I remained firm in my stance that Brian’s routine should not be interrupted until absolutely necessary."

Mayim Bialik receives hatred comments & threats for being religious

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But in Hollywood circles, Bialik is known for something very different. Her faith.

Bialik is Jewish and regaled to Fox 411 how she practices her own brand of Judaism that fits her life and beliefs. She says that's OK but that sometimes it gets her hatred, too.

More: Mayim Bialik opens up about social justice, feminism and her "inner nerd"

"I think in general it's never going to be trendy to be observant or religious in Hollywood circles," she bluntly stated. "There are people I know of faith and we tend to congregate together. I study Jewish texts weekly. That's something really positive to me — when you're a person of faith, it stays with you all the time."

She explains that though she is a scientist and an intellectual, she can still have both God and science. And she had made it work by taking what she believes and creating the rest around her own life because she doesn’t necessarily like the "bureaucracy of organized religion," but says that she has "an unwavering faith in a power greater than myself, and I don't think that will change any more than my belief in gravity will change. I believe in [Jewish law] but I also believe in the permeability and changeability in the structure of Jewish law, and I think Judaism has always adjusted to the times that it lived in, and it's adjusting in the time we are in now."

More: The Big Bang Theory cast wants to train the next generation of real scientists

And while she might be the odd woman out in Hollywood, her faith got her into some hot water with fans and critics, too, recently.

Bialik recalled getting threats and a lot of hatred for a recent trip to Israel.

She said, "I've gotten a lot of negative attention for visiting Israel. That's what amazing… simply by going to Israel this summer and saying nothing more than, 'I've gone to Israel,' I got the same amount of hatred and threats and anti-Semitism for actually making a statement trying to support people whether I like it or not are serving in an army."

Her trip was to visit a friend who is serving in the Israeli Defense Forces.

She continued, "It really doesn't matter what I support or believe. The fact that I’m Jewish and go there is enough — that should be alarming to most people."

More: The Big Bang Theory's Mayim Bialik pens saddest letter to her fans

Working mum denied paid paternal leave, don't let this happen to you

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More: What the first 2 years of your kid's life is really like for parents (VIDEO)

"It was horrible... I was terribly upset," the Sydney woman told Daily Mail Australia. "I spoke to a lady (from Centrelink — which is delivered by the Australian Government Department of Human Services) on the phone about it and ended up bursting into tears. It's incredibly stressful and distressing."

She continued, "We were really counting on this... everything, especially raising a child, costs so much money nowadays."

Parker claims that she was denied paid parental leave, despite having met the requirements to work 10 months out of 13 prior to giving birth. The problem is that those ten months were not consecutive, even though the new mom claims she was never told by Centrelink that this was a requirement.

Do you meet the requirements? You need to tick these boxes:

1. Be the primary carer

According to Australian government's Fair Work ombudsman you are eligible for up to 18 weeks parental leave paid at the national minimum wage if you are the primary carer (the person who meets the child's physical needs) of a newborn or adopted child.

More: Huggies responds to claims there's glass in their baby wipes

2. Meet residence requirements

The Australian Government Department of Human Services reports that you must also satisfy the residence requirements and be living in Australia at the time of your child's birth, or when you become the primary caregiver. You should also have either Australian citizenship, a permanent visa, a special category visa or hold a certain temporary visa type.

3. Meet the work test requirements

You need to have met the Paid Parental Leave work test, which according to the Australian Government Department of Human Services requires you to have worked for atleast "10 of the 13 months before the birth or adoption of your child, and 330 hours in that 10 month period, which is just over 1 day a week, and had no more than an 8 week gap between 2 consecutive working days."

A working day is classified as "when you have worked for at least 1 hour."

More: 15 Thoughts every breastfeeding mother has

4. Know your individual adjustable taxable income

To be eligible for Paid Parental Leave you need to have an "individual adjusted taxable income of $150,000 or less in the financial year either before the date of birth or adoption, or the date you claim, whichever is earlier," the website reports.

5. Be on leave or not working

And lastly, you need to be on leave or not working at the time that you become the child's primary carer until the end of your Paid Parental Leave period.

To read more about paid parental leave visit http://www.humanservices.gov.au/

How to bake a cake with a special message inside

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Just picture it: It's Father’s Day morning. You say, "Hey, Dad. Check out this cake." Your dad mumbles about it being early. "It's never too early for cake," you tell him. He sees the wisdom of your words, cuts into the cake and — bam! — there is your message of love. Best Father’s Day treat ever.

And it's so easy to make.

Surprise Cake

Secret message Father's Day cake

Ingredients:

For the message:

  • 150 grams unsalted butter, softened
  • 150 grams sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
  • 250 grams flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Food colouring of your choice

For the cake:

  • 150 grams unsalted butter, softened
  • 150 grams sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla essence
  • 250 grams flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

For decorating:

  • Nutella
  • Heart-shaped sprinkles

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 175 degrees C and grease a shallow baking tin and a loaf tin.

Secret Cake

In a medium bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. Add the eggs as well as the vanilla essence and beat until it's well combined. Add the flour and baking powder and mix slowly until just combined. Then add the food colouring and mix again.

Secret Cake

Pour some of the batter into the baking tin — no more than a centimetre thick — and bake for 10-15 minutes until baked through (a toothpick comes out clean). Flip it out onto a cooling rack and allow it to cool. Repeat the step with the remaining batter.

Cut out the letters and heart

Using alphabet and heart cookie cutters, letter stencils or printed letters — whichever you have handy — cut out enough As, Ds, Is and hearts so that, when stacked, they fill the length of the baking tin. Make sure each letter is clear.

Secret Cake

Make the second batch of (uncoloured) batter by following the second step, leaving out the food colouring. Then pour a thin layer of the batter into the base of the loaf tin — no more than a centimetre thick.

Line them up

Starting a centimetre or two from the front of the tin and working your way to the back, stack the "DAD" cutouts on top of the batter. Once you've done that, cover the letters with batter and then stack the "I" and heart cut-outs on top.

Secret Cake

Pour the remaining batter over the cutouts, ensuring they are well covered, and bake for 20 minutes (or until it turns golden and a toothpick comes out clean).

Secret Cake

Flip the cake out and allow it to cool. Then turn it back over.

Secret Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the top with a half-centimetre layer of Nutella. Using the back of a soup spoon, make swirly patterns (just turn the spoon clockwise).

Secret Cake

Sprinkle with heart-shaped sprinkles, nuts, icing sugar or anything else you think Dad might like. Then let him cut in and read the message.

Finished

More Father's Day recipes

Fabulous cake for Father's Day
Bacon sugar cookies
Shirt and tie quesadilla

Frozen no-bake cheesecake balls with a blueberry surprise inside

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These cheesecakes are no-bake, but they're also frozen, which means they're like eating blueberry cheesecake ice cream bites. (Bonus: They're also very easy to make.) You can make your own blueberry sauce using fresh or frozen blueberries in a matter of minutes as the recipe says, or even easier, just buy your favorite jar of ready-made sauce, and get on with this decadent treat.

Frozen blueberry cheesecake balls - vertical

When you bite into these, you won't believe how good they are. They are like ice cream with the full flavor of blueberry cheesecake. Get ready — your family will ask for more, because truly, they are quite delicious and fun to eat.

frozen blueberry cheesecake balls

Frozen blueberry cheesecake balls recipe

It's fun to eat cheesecake like ice cream bites. In the peak of summer, they are such a delicious dessert or snack to refresh us.

Yields 8

Prep time: 50 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Inactive time: 3 hours | Total time: 3 hours 55 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cream cheese (like Philadelphia)
  • 1/8 cup low-fat cream
  • 2 tablespoons confectioner's sugar
  • 1 cup fresh (or frozen) blueberries
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup biscuit crumbs

Directions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, low-fat cream and confectioner's sugar until the mixture is combined well. Freeze for 30 minutes, and while waiting, make the blueberry sauce.
  2. In a small saucepan over low-medium heat, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar and lemon juice. Cook for 3 minutes, then crush the berries with a fork. If using frozen blueberries, this part takes a few minutes longer.
  3. In a small bowl, quickly mix together the cornstarch and water until the mixture becomes smooth. Pour it into the saucepan with the blueberries. Mix until the sauce thickens, then set it aside to let it cool down.
  4. Using a piece of saran wrap, spoon some cream cheese into the middle, then gather all the sides of the wrap to shape the cream cheese into a ball. Open the saran wrap again, and insert some blueberry mixture in the center of the cheesecake ball. Close by gathering the sides again. Repeat until you finish all the ingredients.
  5. On a plate with the biscuit crumbs, roll the cheesecake balls until they are all covered. If they become too soft to handle, just put them back in the freezer to make them harder.
  6. Freeze the cheesecake balls for at least 3 hours or until they harden.

More cheesecake recipes

Gluten-free individual blueberry cheesecakes
Lemon cheesecake
Mini blueberry, lemon and mascarpone cheesecake

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