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Researchers say kids need more ‘dangerous play’: Here’s what we think

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The report, published by the All Party Parliamentary Group, encourages “risky play” in outdoor locations near “potentially dangerous” hazards such as cliffs and water.

“Societal fears about child safety have resulted in increased parental over-supervision… [who have] expressed a reluctance to allow their children to play outside, on grounds of burgeoning traffic levels, crime, harassment, violence, the possibility of abduction and even dirt and germs. The world beyond the front door is increasingly viewed as one that is hostile to children,” the report says.

It advocates for allowing a freer approach to child play time, particularly “risky play, involving perhaps rough and tumble, height, speed, playing near potentially dangerous elements such as water, cliffs and exploring alone with the possibility of getting lost. This gives children a feeling of thrill and excitement and other accompanying benefits,” the report says.

More: The real reason schools shouldn't ban Halloween

These recommendations are all in the name of providing kids with an alternative to traditional playgrounds, where fencing, rubber flooring and bright colours are deemed too safe, unchallenging and unexciting.

The report urges parents and schools to offer “support for children to experience risk and challenge and develop resilience and self-reliance through play, both in their communities and in schools.”

In other words: it's the ultimate antidote to helicopter parenting and it’s certainly quite a divisive topic!

What do actual parents think about 'dangerous play' research?

Angela, Sydney

Parents are always doing something wrong, whether it’s allowing their kids to play dangerously or not dangerously enough! Is there even a good balance? Personally, I will let my kids climb trees and ride motorbikes and do all that stuff when they're old enough; that’s what my childhood was like and I loved it. I can’t wait to watch my kids run around like crazy!

Nicole, Sydney

Sometimes, you have to fall over the learn how to get back up again. Metaphorically or otherwise, you have to get hurt to get stronger and learn how to deal with things in life. Not every day is a huge, and not everyone gets a trophy!

Natalie, Gold Coast

I think outdoors time every day is important. We often let our kids poke around our fenced front yard while we're washing the cars or gardening, and they pick flowers and discover beetles and get dirt under their fingernails. I don't know if I'd be comfortable with them being there without supervision, though.

More: 22 Tired babies who can't keep their eyes open a minute longer

David, Brisbane

Look, I'm not ashamed to admit it – I'm a helicopter parent. I can't help it. The thought of letting my daughters play in or near water while I'm not supervising actually makes me feel ill!

Libby, Northern NSW

I grew up in the country, where you didn't complain unless you could see the bone! I was riding dirt bikes at 8 and scrapes and grazes and falls were just a normal part of our childhood. When I have kids, I want them to have those kinds of experiences rather than just playing on an iPad all day.

Katherine, Gold Coast

When I was about 8 or 9, I used to leave my house on a Saturday morning and disappear with the neighbourhood kids all day. We would walk for what seemed like forever, poke around drains, climb trees and just generally explore. Now that I'm a parent, I can't imagine letting my kids disappear for hours on end! I guess a balance between the two would be ideal?

Claire, Sydney

We mollycoddle our kids way too much. How are they supposed to learn about things if they don't experience some of it for themselves?

More: Single mums share how they're braver than they imagined


4 Women who dealt with the temptation to cheat and how

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Here is how four women handled this ticklish, potentially dangerous dilemma.

1. Take the lust home

Brenda, 35, and married seven years, recalls, “I loved my husband Dan and we were settled into a stable if boring routine.” Clearly a bit too boring. Shortly after she returned to work after three years of being a stay-at-home mom, Brenda felt sexual stirrings for a co-worker. She recalls, “I found myself lusting after Karl. In boring meetings I would fantasize about what he looked like under the pin-striped suits, and all the things I wanted to do to him once I got him naked… Don’t get me wrong. Karl and I had nothing in common and anyway, I wouldn’t do anything to blow up my marriage.”

Her solution: “I got a babysitter for the kids and did all the things I wanted to do to Karl to my husband! A sexual romp for Dan and me was long overdue. We both needed to remember our life together had way more to offer than co-parenting duties and someone to warm our feet during the winter!”

2. Regard the crush as a wake-up call to work on marriage

For Lisa, having a crush was a wake-up call that her marriage was on the rocks. The 30-year-old admits, “Tom was my first real boyfriend and we’d grown so distant over the years it often felt like I was living with a stranger. In the 10 years we’d been together, he’d gone from being the first person I confided in when stuff was on my mind to dead last!”

The object of her infatuation was an older married neighbor she once regarded as a father figure. “I realized that my new feelings toward Bill were more due to the fact that, unlike my husband, he listened to me and seemed to care about my happiness.”

Lisa suggested to Tom the two attend counseling sessions. She says, “It really opened the dam. We started sharing feelings, things we’d been bottling up for years because we were afraid of hurting the other’s feelings…”

Today the connection between the couple is reignited. “Therapy was a lot of hard work, and often very painful, but I have my husband back. And yes, our sex life has gone from non-existent to hot-hot-hot!”

3. Put boundaries on time spent with your crush

Amy’s feelings for her co-worker, Tim, grew largely because the two spent so many hours together. “He was my work husband — we’d do lunch, dinners if we had pressing deadlines, took all our coffee breaks together… no wonder it started to feel dangerous.”

Married 14 years, the 40-year-old says, “Most dangerous — Tim and I had started teasing each other and using sexual innuendos. I found myself dressing as provocatively as one can on the job to see if he’d notice.”

Her husband noticed her inattention. “When Rick asked me if everything was alright between us, I seemed really distant, I took stock in a hurry. I reined stuff in with Tim. Things stayed friendly between us but I stopped the sexual tension stuff and also the long, private meals and personal sharing.” Thankfully it did the trick. Her emotional attention is back where she wants it — on her marriage.

4. Flirtation isn't the only way to handle personal restlessness

Marie found herself crushing on a man she ironically met through her husband of five years. The 33-year-old confides, “When John brought home Paul, a friend he’d met at his bowling league I found my perpetual state of boredom lifting for the first time in ages. Suddenly there was someone, something, fun to think about for the first time in ages. John noticed, and asked, only half joking, ‘Why do you keep asking me if Paul is coming over again? Should I be jealous?’”

She did some intense soul searching and realized for too long life had been stale. “It wasn’t my husband who bored me. I was boring myself. I’d stopped pushing myself — doing anything fun or interesting or challenging.”

Marie not only sought and won a work promotion, she took up some new adrenaline-creating hobbies — surfing and diving. Even better, her husband joined in these new pursuits. Marie shares her new-found wisdom: “It’s never good to become too complacent with life. That’s when we look for diversion in someone else. Thank goodness I didn’t wreck my marriage over my personal restlessness!”

7 Classic makeup trends that were basically made for fall

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I wish I were joking. But all of these compelling reasons make fall absolutely, undeniably my favorite time of year. As silly as it is to admit that I'm looking forward to the smell of crisp leaves and wood-burning stoves just so I can rotate my summer makeup to the back of the drawer, it's true. Updating my autumnal look is one of the finer fall festivities you'll find mixed up among the Halloween door decor and DIY Thanksgiving cornucopias on my Pinterest boards.

We can all agree that fall makeup is exciting — until we get hung up on the execution. Trying a new makeup trend poses a major risk, which is why most of us keep our faces firmly stuck in the fall makeup styles of yesteryear (muddy brown lipstick, I'm looking at you). Playing it safe may be the best way to avoid looking like a fool on your daily Starbucks run, but it also means you'll miss out on all the fun new fall makeup trends popping up in 2015.

More: 6 Decades making a retro beauty comeback

Trying a new makeup trend doesn't have to be intimidating. With my years spent working as an aesthetician and makeup artist and the input from several top beauty professionals, I'm here to guide you through the treacherous process. There's only one season where you get to try fresh, new makeup whilst drinking a pumpkin spice latte, and it's happening right now:

1. Bronze eyeshadow

Bronze eyeshadow

Bronze eyeshadow

This first one is easy — and it gives you the opportunity to gently transition from summer to fall without making any drastic changes to your makeup routine, says Hillary Kline, beauty and lifestyle vlogger at Haute Hills. Kline recommends updating your fall look with a new eyeshadow in a bronze or copper tone, applied as an allover lid color.

2. Cat eye

Cat eye

Cat eye

While the cat eye is far too formal to rock poolside, it pairs perfectly with gothic-inspired fall makeup shades like berry and copper. Liz Evenson, professional makeup artist at Pyara in Massachusetts, says cat eyes are making a comeback as the weather cools, merging modern and classic into one eye-popping fall trend. She explains how to take the basic cat eye to the next level: "Give the traditional cat eye a straight edge with swiped or smudged eyeliner. To add more intrigue, give the edge a double-wing."

3. Dark lips

Berry lips

Berry lips

If you, like me, have been waiting for years for your favorite heavy-handed '90s makeup trends to resurface so you can finally wear that dirty flannel lurking in the back of your closet, you're in luck. This fall, it's all about grunge meets glamour with a vintage '90s twist, says Evenson. She recommends "darker lip colors [to] give a quick pop to a bare face — great for the minimalist on the go!"

More: Newest in-your-face makeup trend is actually no makeup at all

4. Flushed cheeks

Flushed cheeks

Flushed cheeks

You know that sexy flush you get after coming in from the cold? You can replicate that just-been-kissed effect without ever stepping foot outside, with a few well-placed strokes of your makeup brush. "As that summer glow and bronze look fades, I always say that flushed cheeks are the way to go. Add a deep plum color to the apple of your cheeks or a peach tone to brighten your cheeks and provide a nice fall glow," says Kline.

More: Flushed cheeks are finally trendier than contouring — how to get the look

5. Long lashes

Lashes

Lashes

As Wendy Solomon, makeup artist and owner of North Carolina's Flawless Day Spa, puts it so well: "This fall, the eyes have it." If you try even one fall makeup trend this year, don't skimp on your lashes. "This season, long and lush are the way to go," says Solomon. "There are many lash growth serums on the market that are a terrific way to give you that long lash look without much time investment. Apply a serum each night before bed, and after about six weeks, you will have longer, thicker lashes. With or without long natural lashes, a couple layers of dark black lengthening mascara, then a layer of black thickening mascara, can work magic on your eyes."

6. Pale skin

Pale skin

Pale skin

This trend is a big win for those of us who take on near-dead status in the colder months when sunlight is scarce: Embrace the pale face and pair it with a bold, '90s lip, while you're at it. Solomon advises, "Put the bronzer aside and concentrate on the beauty of perfect winter-pale skin. Don't have perfect skin? Use a small amount of foundation over the whole face for an even look. Or just dot concealer or foundation on problem areas and blend."

7. Warm browns

Brown makeup

Brown makeup

OK, so maybe I was wrong about the horror that was muddy brown fall lipstick from 10 years ago. Lena Sgambati, makeup artist and skin care expert from Just Good Skincare, has all but changed my mind. Sgambati insists that along with a dark lip for the season, sexy brown tones are "super hot" right now. She suggests dipping your toes in the water with "soft cappuccino neutrals, creamy deep chocolates, velvety matte coffee colors that, yes, are little reminiscent of the '90s." Sgambati adds, "I think the twist is with the cheek color — I'm seeing a really cool look of using these tones on the cheeks, as well as the lips! I first spotted it on Jessie J, who wore a mustard-toned blush on the finale of The Voice Australia."

9 Foods that have medicinal properties

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With just a few simple changes, like adding pomegranate seeds to your breakfast oatmeal or tossing an extra garlic knob into your spaghetti sauce, you can instantly boost your immune system and increase your body's capacity for healing itself from within. They may even save you a trip or two to the doctor.

1. Red cabbage

red cabbage
Image: Joe Alfano/EyeEm/Getty Images

How simple are salads? Next time you're looking for an easy, fresh side dish that goes with anything, be sure to add red cabbage to your green lettuce because it's loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory support. In fact, you can chalk up their deep purple color to a high concentration of anthocyanin polyphenols, which are plant compounds that promote heart health, cognitive function and brain health, all while preventing the lipid peroxidation of "bad" LDL cholesterol, says Kate Gavlick, nutritionist and writer for Deckopedia. "This means that this cabbage keeps both your ticker and your noggin in tip-top shape," Gavlick says.

2. Red grapes

Red grapes
Image: Tom Merton/OJO Images/Getty Images

Who knew purple was so therapeutic? You may have already heard that red wine and red grapes contain resveratrol, which is being touted as an anti-aging wonder, but wait, there's more. "Resveratrol is noted to be one heart healthy plant compound and may help in the reduction of oxidative stress, vascular inflammation, and the prevention of platelet aggregation," Gavlick says. "Good news: resveratrol may be more bioavailable in red wine, so enjoy a glass in moderation!"

More: 13 Awesome garden herbs that double as health supplements

3. Butternut squash

Butternut squash
Image: PhotoAlto/Laurence Mouton/PhotoAlto Agency RF Collections/Getty Images

Not only is it the perfect autumn/winter veggie — one that makes the most sumptuously sweet soup on the planet — but as it turns out, butternut squash can also keep the flu and common cold far, far away. "Winter squash contains vitamin A, which is necessary for properly functioning eyesight, red blood cell production, and an up and running immune system," Gavlick says. "In fact, vitamin A deficiencies are associated with a weakened immunity and a higher chance of catching infectious diseases." Because vitamin A is fat-soluble, the best way to enjoy winter squash is by cooking it with a healthy fat such as coconut or olive oil.

4. Brussels sprouts

Brussels Sprouts
Image: ABERRATION FILMS LTD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images

Suffering from pains associated with a recent injury? Load up on Brussels sprouts, which contain 240 percent of your daily intake of vitamin K, Gavlick says. She explains vitamin K is "an essential fat soluble vitamin necessary for responding to injuries, bone health, and the prevention of calcification in the arteries." Brussels sprouts are delicious when roasted in the oven — or can be steamed or added to any salad.

5. Pomegranate seeds

Pomegranate seeds
Image: copyright rhinoneal/Moment/Getty Images

Not only are they the perfect combo of sweet and tart (and they're cute to boot), but pomegranate seeds are also an excellent source of antioxidants. "Pomegranate seeds are noted to contain 2-3 times the antioxidant capacity of green tea and red wine, which means they help to keep your cells free and clear of oxidative stress and overly reactive oxygen species," Gavlick says.

More: Energy healing: What the heck is it and how it can fix you

6. Scallions

Scallions
Image: Veselov Ivan/EyeEm/Getty Images


Feel a scratchy throat or sniffle come on? Stop everything you're doing and reach for scallions to add to your soup, salad, ginger tea or (my personal favorite) potato pancakes. "It helps the body sweat out toxins," says Stacey Isaacs — a trained chef with a master's degree in Oriental medicine and a license in acupuncture — who runs the blog There's a Cook in my Kitchen. "Scallions are antiviral and antibacterial; they are good for the common cold and general nasal congestion — just don’t eat too many if you have a fever."

7. Garlic

Garlic
Image: Debby Lewis-Harrison/Cultara/Getty Images

Garlic is another Chinese herb (called "da suan") that has antiviral and antibacterial properties — and it doesn't hurt that it's dead easy to add to most recipes. "Garlic is used to kill toxins and parasites and also to reduce swelling in the body," Isaacs says. "It’s what I call a great 'A' herb: anesthetic, antibacterial, anti fungal, antioxidant, and antiviral."

8. Cucumbers

Sliced cucumbers
Image: Shaunia Mckenzie/EyeEm/Getty Images

In Chinese medicine, cucumbers are known for having exceptional healing capabilities, Isaacs says. Not only can they cool the body down, but Isaacs says they also expel toxins, purify the blood, strengthen the heart, moisten the large intestines and the lungs and are even thought to be able to kill tapeworms. "They are good to eat if you have swelling in your hands or feet — or if you have a bladder infection," she says.

9. Sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds
Image: Lew Robertson/Digital Vision/Getty Images

Like pomegranate seeds, these versatile babies can be added to oatmeal, granola, pancake batter, salads and even cookies. They boast calcium and magnesium and are often prescribed in Chinese medicine to get rid of rashes, Isaacs says. "Sunflower seeds help lower blood pressure and can relieve headaches and dizziness," she says. "In Eastern medicine we recommend eating sunflower seeds if a person is troubled by certain severe intestinal symptoms like dysentery or intestinal worms or certain parasites."

AHS: Hotel introduces its first love triangle: Who will The Countess choose?

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American Horror Story: Hotel has seemingly given the actor the boot in just the second episode of Season 5. But rather than accept that he is gone for good, let's just all accept this for what it really is and breathe a sigh of relief: Showrunner Ryan Murphy must be jumping on the love triangle bandwagon, right?

More: AHS: Hotel blurs the lines between Lady Gaga and Stefani Germanotta

Right?!

Because Donovon (Bomer) can't be gone from our lives The Countess' life for good.

There is no world of Hotel that we want to live in, well, period — but especially not if there is no Donovon to catch a glimpse of.

He completely sold us in the first episode, what with his broody demeanor and his snarky attitude.

How could The Countess possibly think that Tristan (Finn Wittrock) was a more than adequate replacement? He's a totally arrogant jerk!

More: 11 Ways AHS: Hotel exceeded even the highest expectations

Sure, as Donovan said in the episode, The Countess absolutely has a type. All these dark-haired, blue-eyed hunks have us swooning this season. Let's round them up, shall we? There's Detective John Lowe (Wes Bentley), Will Drake (Cheyenne Jackson), Gabriel (Max Greenfield), and then the previously mentioned Tristan and Donovan.

Of course, all these similar-looking men seem to be related to the fact that *spoiler alert* it seems The Countess was previously married to the just-introduced James March, who built the hotel and has a not-so-secretive affinity for slaughtering as many people as possible. And The Countess seemed to enjoy the screams, if that was really her in the brick laying scene.

If the theory is correct that The Countess is March's wife, then all of this means she's less and less into Donovan and Tristan and more unwilling to let go of her bloodthirsty husband, who also seems to be clinging to something in the world of the living since he's lurking around the Hotel Cortez decades after his death.

Does that mean the love triangle is about to become a love square?

If I were Donovan and Tristan, I would go ahead and surrender now if that's the case since, as clearly demonstrated during Episode 2, March is not someone you want to mess with. Ever. There is no good side. Just the murder-y side.

More: How American Horror Story empowers women and the LGBT community

And The Countess clearly told her new muse Tristan tonight that just because the hemophiliacs don't age doesn't mean the blood virus makes them immortal.

But this whole scenario seems totally OK. The Countess can pick whoever she wants, really. Just as long as Donovan's screen time in Season 5 is far from over.

And though we can fantasize about a world where he is not only real but single, the odds are good that he's far from done fighting to win The Countess' affections.

We just can't wait to see it.

Do you think Donovan is gone for good or will he win The Countess' true affection in the end?

Kim Zolciak takes to Instagram to announce surprising new gig (PHOTO)

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More: Kim Zolciak bites back at absurd Photoshop accusations (PHOTO)

On Wednesday, Zolciak took to Instagram to inform fans of her new venture by posting a picture of herself along with the information about her "Ask Believe Receive" tour.

She shared her joy about her latest project in the caption, writing, "I'm so flipping EXCITED!!!!! I have talked about this for years and I'm finally doing it! You guys really motivated me after watching some of my speech on Don't Be Tardy the comments/emails you guys wrote me were awesome."

She continued, "I didn't get where I am on my own I have an incredible teacher, her name is Angie and she has taught me all I know and I want to share everything I have learned with you. It's not by accident I'm living my dream! my first stop will be in Atlanta, followed by over 20 more cities! Who's coming? #AskBelieveReceive#Manifesting #EmpoweringWomen."

More: Kim Zolciak needs to focus on her heart condition, not DWTS

The reaction to the post has been incredibly positive, and fans have taken to the comments section to give Zolciak suggestions of which cities to visit.

"@kimzolciakbiermann you should head on over to Alabama, would love to see you and hear you speak! You're wonderful," joie_dyanna wrote.

"Where can we find out what cities you are coming to.....i [sic] hope ohio [sic] is one! @kimzolciakbiermann," another user, danilynn1983, wrote.

"I just saw the episode thanks to DVR!!! you did AMAZING!!! I cried happy and sad tears. You go girl and I hope women listen and start loving instead of hating each other!! Your statement was so true... Can you imagine the things we could do if we shared with each other," a very excited hkmcdougall wrote.

Kim Zolciak Instagram

Kim Zolciak Instagram

More: Kim Zolciak remembers what's most important to her with sweet throwback pic

The reality TV star has been attacked for multiple reasons via social media over the years, but she has not let the backlash bring her down (and has continued to live the life she loves). Could this make her a perfect candidate?

The first stop for Kim Zolciak's tour is Atlanta in December 2015. Do you think her speaking tour will be a success? Would you go see her? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

kim zolciak slideshow

Fall flavors make this hearty and healthy kale salad a seasonal favorite

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fall kale salad
Image: Brandi Bidot/SheKnows

For this hearty salad, I used kale, red cabbage and other veggies to make a filling salad that’s perfect for a main course but doubles as a side dish too.

Apple chips add sweetness, while pecans add a nice texture and some crunch. I love adding feta cheese because of the saltiness, but that's optional if you don’t eat dairy. Another level of flavor comes from the truffle oil croutons, which add an earthiness to this already tasty dish. Top all that off with homemade apple cider vinaigrette, and you've got a salad you'll go back to all season long.

winter kale salad
Image: Brandi Bidot/SheKnows

Fall kale salad with truffled croutons recipe

Serves 4

Prep time: 20 minutes | Bake time: 15 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

For the truffled croutons

  • 2 slices day-old bread, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons truffle oil
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the salad

  • 4 cups kale, finely chopped
  • 1 cup red cabbage, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded broccoli
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Apple chips, for garnish
  • Apple cider dressing, for serving

Directions:

  1. Heat the oven to 400 degrees F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. To a bowl, add the bread cubes. Drizzle the truffle oil on top, and sprinkle with the herbs, salt and pepper.
  3. Toss well, and spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden. Let cool, and use as desired.
  4. To a large salad bowl, add the kale, red cabbage and shredded broccoli. Drizzle with the apple cider dressing, and toss well.
  5. Garnish the salad with pecans, feta and apple chips. Top with the truffle oil croutons, and serve with additional dressing, if desired.
  6. Best served immediately.

Easy homemade apple cider vinaigrette recipe

Yields 3/4 cup

Total time: 5 minutes

Ingredients: 

  • 1/2 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1/2 small shallot
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and fresh black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. To a blender or jar with a lid, add all the ingredients.
  2. Blend or shake for 30 seconds, then taste the dressing, and adjust any ingredients as desired.
  3. Store the dressing up to 1 week when chilled in an airtight container.
  4. Shake well before using.

More seasonal salads

20 Fall salads you'll want to make all season long
Quinoa salad with roasted Brussels sprouts and apples tastes like fall
5 Winter salads to tempt your taste buds

Rapid Reads: 7 Big stories of the day

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1. Change of plans

President Obama will announce today that U.S. forces will remain in Afghanistan at their current levels until 2016. That means Obama's plan to withdraw troops before the end of his presidency isn't going to happen. Instead, they'll reduce the number of troops from 9,800 to 5,500 in 2017. From there, they'll reassess and determine what needs to be done. The estimated annual cost of keeping troops at their current levels is $14.6 billion. Clearly, this was not a decision the administration made lightly. — CNN

More: Angelina Jolie opens a school in Afghanistan

2. Gun control

California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom is proposing a 2016 ballot initiative that would make California the first state to have a law on the books requiring background checks for ammunition purchases. It would also require gun owners to turn in any high capacity magazines and to report any time their gun is lost or stolen. If these things all sound pretty common sense to you, it's because they are. In decidedly different gun news, today a Maine law goes into effect that will allow people to conceal carry guns without a permit. Who's going to say California's ideas are better? — ABC News

3. So funny we forgot to laugh

Suspended baseball analyst Curt Schilling is in hot water again after comments about Tuesday night's Democratic debate. When Donald Trump took to Twitter to ask who everyone thought was winning, Schilling responded, "ISIS." Schilling is known for his outlandish political opinions. In August, he was suspended by ESPN for tweeting a meme that compared Muslims to Nazis. They declined to comment on his latest word vomit. Apparently he just doesn't want his job back. — Huffington Post

4. More money, more problems

Walmart is expecting lower profits, and that has shareholders shaking in their boots. The retail giant is raising the minimum wage for most workers to $10 per hour and taking a break from expansions. As a result, Walmart had its worst stock day in history yesterday. Shares dipped 10 percent, and the Waltons — the family behind Walmart — saw about $11 billion of their net worth disappear. Ultimately, though, they're investing in the future of their company and it could pay off if they can turn things around. In the meantime, let's hope they don't tank the entire stock market. — Bloomberg

More: Ashton Kutcher slams Walmart over low wages

5. Here's a tip

Danny Meyer, the man behind Shake Shack and the Modern, is doing away with tipping in all of his restaurants. Instead, menu prices will go up about 30 percent and staff will receive a full wage. Meyer calls the plan "hospitality included" and will phase it in slowly over the next year. Under the plan, cooks will make $14 per hour, and servers will make $9. Meyer is wildly influential and is hopefully doing something that will catch on in many more places. — The New York Times

6. Holiday, celebrate

Good news, travelers: Southwest Airlines is going international. They'll serve 12 destinations in eight different countries, mostly in Latin America and the Caribbean. The flights will leave from Houston and Ft. Lauderdale, where Southwest spent millions building fancy new international terminals. Oh, and the best part? Bags are still free. They've also identified 50 more international destinations as growth markets, so plenty more international flights are in our futures. — USA Today

More: The top 5 pet-friendly airlines

7. You are not America's next top model

Tyra Bank's hit reality show America's Next Top Model will come to an end in December, the supermodel confirms. The show, which pits aspiring models against each other for a chance at a professional modeling contract and other prizes, has been around for a staggering 22 seasons. In that time, it's grown from a competition for stereotypical models and expanded to include plus-size models, petite models and men. It also gave fans a glimpse into what the world of modeling really looks like. We'll miss seeing Tyra teach 'em all how to strut. — TIME


Movie review for parents: Pan

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This latest retelling of the classic fairytale is directed by Joe Wright and stars Levi Miller, Hugh Jackman, Rooney Mara and Garrett Hedlund. How does this live-action adaptation stack up? And is it age-appropriate for your kid? Find out in the video below. For more information about this film, and to see what else is new in theaters, visit Common Sense Media.

Maci Bookout fans are questioning her boyfriend's commitment (PHOTO)

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More: Maci Bookout attacked for outfit she wore to Catelynn and Tyler's wedding

On Wednesday, Bookout took to Instagram to share a sweet picture of herself and her beau, but while the couple seem perfectly content with their lives, some fans and critics are questioning McKinney's commitment to the Teen Mom OG star — and wondering if they will ever get hitched.

Maci Bookout Instagram

Maci Bookout Instagram

"Cute! But he should put a ring on it ! I mean u had his kid???", starfireshorty wrote.

emmadawn713 agreed, writing, "You gotta get yo man to put a ring on it! You are such an amazing family! Why not make it official!? #dontmakeheramamabeforeawife."

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

"When he is going to marry you? There is no other elevation like being a wife. Girlfriend and fiancé are not the same level of commitment," angelina81229 wrote.

And she wasn't the only one questioning when/if the couple will marry because bosrock.kealyn also wanted to know the same thing. "R y'all EVER getting married?" they wrote.

The questions seem a little unfair, as marriage does not define a relationship, and after her rocky relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Ryan Edwards, Bookout has taken things slow and seems to be in a genuinely good place with her life.

More: Maci Bookout's Vegas holiday pic sparks a very interesting debate (PHOTO)

Do you think everyone should just leave these two alone? Or do you feel the same way as these critics? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

teen mom scandals slideshow

Brooklyn Decker finally spills baby name & it's short & sweet

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Speaking of sweet, Brooklyn Decker and Andy Roddick took their sweet time announcing the name of their 2-week-old son. Roddick, 32, and Decker, 28, confirmed Decker's pregnancy back in May. Married since April 2009, the first-time parents welcomed their baby boy on Sept. 30, 2015. The model-turned-actress has documented her pregnancy and transition into new motherhood on Instagram for her 311,000 followers. Decker and Roddick finally spilled the beans to People magazine that they named their baby boy Hank, a popular nickname for Henry.

Brooklyn Decker baby

Brooklyn Decker baby

We've seen the classic baby name Henry making a comeback in recent years. In 2011, Henry was called "Hollywood's Hottest Baby Name" because of the large number of celebrity parents who had chosen the moniker for their children — like Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts and Brandon Flowers, the frontman for The Killers.

More: Celebrity baby boy names you will totally want to steal

But Decker did us one better. She chose an undeniably popular baby name, ranked at number 33 in 2014, and then took a hard right by adopting Henry's more uncommon nickname for her new baby boy. In 2014, Hank ranked far below Henry in popularity, at number 602 for baby names in the U.S.

Decker and Roddick haven't revealed the inspiration for their baby's name yet. Whether they named their son after Hank Aaron for sports-loving Roddick or just liked the way the name sounded, it's hard to ignore the couple's Texas roots. (We're not ruling out the possibility that Hank Hill could have been an influence.) Decker and Roddick currently call Austin, Texas, their home, and if you've ever had the pleasure of visiting the Lone Star State, then you'll know that a twangy name like Hank for a baby makes perfect sense.

More: Celebrity baby girl names you will totally want to steal

Besides the possible Southern inspiration for young Hank's name, there's something interesting about Decker and Roddick's baby name choice. Most parents err in the opposite direction, going to great lengths to make sure that their baby's name is "nickname-proof." Decker and Roddick choosing a nickname as their son's name (or choosing to announce his nickname as his given name) puts a new spin on the traditional approach to baby naming. Given the influence of celebrity baby naming styles, Decker and Roddick may be starting a new nicknames-as-baby-names trend.

More: The best baby boy names with cute nicknames

According to a recent BabyCenter survey, 35 percent of parents said that choosing a baby's name was one of the most fun parts of being pregnant, and with their quirky name choice, Decker and Roddick have proven this much is true. Now that baby Hank has been named and settled into his adorable Austin nursery, the real fun begins. We're sending good vibes to these new parents during those first few months of sleepless nights.

Dad horrified when school sends 6-year-old daughter home without pants

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Raymond McCurdy's 6-year-old daughter was ashamed and in tears when she got off the bus, and that was when her dad noticed there was something off about what she was wearing — a T-shirt, just barely long enough to cover the girl's school-issued underwear, which she was given after having an accident earlier that day. She carried her soiled clothing in a plastic bag.

More: Little boy has one seriously funny question for mom about maxi pads (VIDEO)

There are a lot of familiar-sounding things here. If you have a child, even a school-age child, chances are pretty good that at some point along the way, they will have an accident where they wet their pants. You will have the pleasure of greeting your child at pickup with a plastic bag in hand, and it is very likely that they will be wearing faded community undies and a pair of too-big or too-small mismatched pants from the lost and found.

But at least they will be wearing pants.

The 6-year-old apparently raised her hand to use the bathroom while class was in session, something that happens a lot since, according to her dad, "She has medical issues, and when she has to go, she has to go." Unfortunately she was ignored and told to wait, which is how she ended up having an accident.

More: Oklahoma school backpedals after trying to set limit on bathroom breaks

McCurdy was rightfully upset, feared for his daughter's safety, and when he called the school to see how this could have happened, he got a glib brush-off response, the dad says. "We asked her why my daughter was sent home in just panties and a T-shirt, and she begins to tell me, 'We thought she had a long enough shirt to be able to put her on the school bus and send her home.'"

No.

Absolutely not OK.

Six is a strange and wonderful age. Kids are discovering all kinds of new things about the world and new things about themselves too.

It brings with it a heightened sense of self-consciousness, and kids start to develop a sense of modesty. It's why they'll want to change alone, shout at you if you barge in on them in the bathroom and ask to start using the stall solo out in public. This kind of body autonomy should not be ignored and definitely should not be violated by a parent or a school.

Most children would not be OK with being asked to take a ride with a bus full of their peers in only their underpants and a T-shirt. It is in fact the stuff that school-age nightmares are made of — that sense of exposure and the humiliation it brings.

More: The real reason schools shouldn't ban Halloween

If your child needs frequent bathroom breaks at school, they aren't abnormal, especially around the age of 6. A study published in The Journal of Urology says that as many as 15 percent of kids wet their pants at school and that restricted bathroom breaks should only be an option once kids hit third grade.

Despite that information, a third of kids were told to wait when they asked to use the bathroom (sound familiar?), and 89 percent of teachers thought a bathroom break every hour was excessive (it's not!).

If your child is one of the many that need frequent bathroom breaks, it can be helpful to talk to their teachers and request that they be allowed to use the restroom when nature calls to avoid accidents. It's also important to remember to pack extra sets of clothing, even after you think it's no longer an issue. It's like we tell our kids: Accidents do happen!

McCurdy, for his part, has hired a lawyer, while the school administration says it'll be looking into what went wrong in this particular case. I think at the end of the day, the outraged dad said it best:

"They make me send her to school in clothes to their expectations. Why couldn't you send my kid home in clothes to your expectations?"

5 Reasons to unfriend someone on Facebook

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5 Signs it's time to delete friends from your digital life for good

1. Your IRL friend doesn't include you in a special event — even though they invited the entire neighborhood

This one hit me hard recently when someone I considered a good friend managed to conveniently leave me off her guest list for a milestone event. Honestly, I wouldn't have really cared if she was getting together with a few close friends, but when we accidentally drove down her street the night of her bash, her block was teeming with cars. When I began to see photos from her party on her Facebook feed, I was pretty hurt. While we had been friends for several years, and I had invited her to a number of special events in my own life, I decided that the party was officially over. While my index finger wavered between unfollow and delete, I finally summoned up the nerve to remove her from my friend list for good.

2. Your friend posts every 45 seconds

Unspoken etiquette on Facebook — or at least on my page — says that if you don't have something witty or clever to say, please don't post 100 times per day. No one can be funny or clever 100 times in a row, and it is so incredibly annoying every time I see a notification and it's from you. It's like the boy who cried wolf — after a certain point, we just stop caring.

3. Your friend spams you so they can win a contest

Honestly, I don't know how some of these people wound up on my page in the first place. Even though these people are technically not even my friends, the minute someone sends me a direct message to help them win a contest, I delete them as spam and unfriend them immediately.

4. Your Facebook friend brags just a little too much

Look at me, I'm in France! Wait, now I'm skydiving! Here's me on a 75 foot yacht! I just got a major book deal and someone is optioning the movie rights! I'm sorry. While we all like to share our favorite moments on Facebook, if you have that incredible a life, I need to delete you. Honestly, you make me feel pretty bad about my own situation. Of course, if you invite me to a few of those amazing places, I will happily brag right along with you.

5. Your super-opinionated friend insults you if you disagree with them

There are certain hot button issues I just don't like to touch upon on Facebook, but plenty of people go there. If you dare to disagree with them, they will happily have a social media shouting match on your page. I'm just not interested in the digital drama. If you want to have a healthy debate, I'm happy to engage in a meaningful discussion; but if you call me stupid or just plain wrong, that's grounds for losing my online friendship for good.

Have you had other situations where you've decided to unfriend someone on Facebook? I'd love to hear your reasons or if you relate.

Why Sleepy Hollow's Jack the Ripper is way freakier than real life's version

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More: Sleepy Hollow: Are Joe and Jenny the new power couple?

Man vs. supernatural knife-monster

The real Jack the Ripper was just a man. He may have done some heinous things, but he (or maybe even she?) was just a human being. But in the Sleepy Hollow version, a man was turned into a supernatural beast after becoming one with an ancient knife. In the episode, Ichabod (Tom Mison) and Abbie (Nicole Beharie) confronted the man/monster and discovered that he wasn't easily killed at all. He was shot, fell out of a window and landed on a car, but he still managed to walk away with a smile on his face. I'd call that scarier by a mile.

Sleepy Hollow: monster

Sleepy Hollow: monster

Sleepy Hollow: Oh Damn

Sleepy Hollow: Oh Damn

5 Murders vs. numerous

It's a long-held belief that Jack the Ripper killed five women. Though, if you go poking around on the Internet long enough (guilty), you'll also find theories pointing to as many as 10 or 11 killings. That is a scary thought, but nothing compared to the idea that the killings have happened time and time again throughout history. The facts tell us that there were less than a dozen people killed; Sleepy Hollow's fiction could put that number into the hundreds. Once again, fiction wins.

More: Sleepy Hollow Season 3's new ladies: Evil Pandora vs. seductive Betsy

Powered by insanity vs. influenced by Pandora

Whoever Jack the Ripper was in the real-life legend, everyone can pretty much agree that he was driven by insanity. But this recent fictionalized version was powered by something more terrifying: Pandora. What makes her scarier is the simple fact that she has it in for Abbie and Ichabod and, as formidable as Jack the Ripper was, it makes me wonder what else she has up her sleeve — and that is a truly frightening thought in itself.

Hating women vs. hating anyone

Jack the Ripper, the real version, only killed women. I'm not saying that's a good thing, but the truth is that if he was only killing females, then half the population could potentially feel safe. But Jack the Ripper in Sleepy Hollow was not discriminatory. Whoever was embodying the killer took their aggression out on anyone they felt wronged them — male or female. Once you raise the stakes like that, you instantly make the monster more horrifying.

Sleepy Hollow - Jack the Ripper
Image: Fox

Killings stopping due to death vs. due to disease

After killing five people (or 10 or 11, depending on which story you believe), Jack the Ripper suddenly disappeared. The abrupt way in which the killings stopped led some to think that maybe he died or was jailed for another reason or just decided to stop for whatever reason. The fictional Jack the Ripper stopped only when the blood the knife fed upon was poisoned with an epic disease. So the only way to kill the monster was to dose yourself up with some tainted blood and let the monster stab you. Having a guy just disappear is nothing compared to knowing that the only way to kill something is to potentially kill yourself.

Sleepy Hollow: stabbed

Sleepy Hollow: stabbed

More: Sleepy Hollow's Lyndie Greenwood tells us why you'll need wine for Season 2

In short, this version of Jack the Ripper was way and above scarier than the real thing.

What did you think of Sleepy Hollow's version of Jack the Ripper?

Project Runway's avant-garde looks were stunning (PHOTOS)

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More: Project Runway fans shocked when Tim Gunn loses his mind

The challenge to the designers this week was to create an avante-garde look inspired by a New York City bridge, with the option to create 3-D textiles.

Candice
Image: Lifetime

Candice's look this week wasn't black (for once!) and the judges agreed that she made the best use of the 3-D appliqués. In terms of avant-garde, it's not, and it's hard to find the bridge inspiration in it, but guest judge Mel B. (yes, the Mel B. of the Spice Girls) decided to wear it at a future event.

Ashley
Image: Lifetime

Ashley added the cape to her look at the last minute and the judges thought it was great, although they were confused by the appliqués on the shoulders (what are they?). They also loved the two pieces, especially the sheer pants.

More: One designer's win upsets Project Runway fans on Twitter

Edmond
Image: Lifetime

Edmond's dramatic look was a hit for both Heidi and Mel B., who said they wanted to wear it. Zac wasn't crazy about the use of appliqué and Nina felt it wasn't avant-garde enough.

Merline
Image: Lifetime

Although it was a great runway show, someone had to go home — and this week, that someone was Merline. The judges kept comparing her dress to one from last season and they felt it wasn't unique, even though the appliqué use was the best.

Kelly
Image: Lifetime

Kelly was the winner this week for the second challenge in a row. The judges weren't sure about it at first — there wasn't any appliqué use and it's definitely not wearable by anyone you know, but it's definitely avant-garde.

What did you think of the avant-garde runway? Did the judges make the right decision in picking Kelly as the winner and sending Merline home?

More: Project Runway fans are furious because judges made wrong decision

Project Runway Fashion Week slideshow
Image: Malike Sidibe/SheKnows


Quadriplegic man shares first dance with wife, 2 years after their wedding

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Lauren and Joel Jackson, both 26, met in South Carolina as teens and sparks flew, but it wasn't until after a 2009 accident that they knew they were meant to be together. Joel's spine separated during the accident, leaving him paralyzed and unable to speak. That didn't deter Lauren: They used computer software to communicate and eventually said "I do."

More: Bride wears same dress as 11 members of her family

Lauren told Joel after their September 2013 wedding, "‘When you can talk, I want to renew our vows. And when you can walk, I want you to dance with me."

That happened earlier this month at Joel's rehabilitation hospital in Jacksonville. "I couldn't stop saying 'Goodness you are sooooo tall!' I forgot how tall he was after all these years," she wrote on their blog. Joel was able to stand with the help of a bodyweight suspension system. Grab the tissues.

Lauren and Joel Jackson first dance

Lauren and Joel Jackson first dance

"I don't know if you're like me, but I have photographed (and now videoed) tons of brides and grooms during their first dance," she continued. "I always wondered what they giggled and smiled about, what the conversation was about. Still to this day I find myself wondering what sweet words they are sharing in the that moment, but today, I got to relive that moment again with my groom. We shared our FIRST DANCE again this time on our feet!

More: Emotional dad stops daughter's wedding to give her stepdad the spotlight

The pair is raising money through sales of Joel's paintings to help them afford a home that's comfortable for him. Until then, they're working together and confident he'll regain more abilities as times goes on.

"When people say you can't, it's because they don't understand God CAN!" she wrote on their blog. "Joel's quality of life might be different than what they would want for themselves, but I'm convinced it's more rich and joyous than they could imagine. It is the little triumphs that are giant steps for us. And for the little things, I am grateful."

More: How one couple's wedding photo is helping people with mental illness and depression

Don't Be Tardy fans aren't happy with Brielle's future plans

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It's no secret that Brielle is spoiled and completely clueless about how the real world works, but until now, fans did not realize just how dead set she is against academic achievement. She made her disdain for higher education very obvious during tonight's episode of Don't Be Tardy. Her insistence on skipping college actually caused quite a bit of drama between Kim and Kroy, with the stepdad claiming that what Brielle really needs is "something that can get [her] some tangible experience in life." In his opinion, the best avenue to acquiring said experience is college. Kim, on the other hand, thinks that, in Brielle's chosen industry, "It's all about who you know."

Kroy Biermann
Image: Bravo

More: Kim Zolciak takes to Instagram to announce surprising new gig

If there's one argument against Brielle attending college, it's that she's already proven that she's a terrible student. Although student loan debt is certainly not something the reality star has to worry about (Kim would obviously foot the bill for college tuition and any related expenses that may arise), it still could be a complete waste of time for her to attend, as she'd be likely to skip classes and avoid studying at all costs.

Kim Zolciak
Image: Bravo

More: Kim Zolciak impresses fans with empowering speech

Twitter users largely agree with Kroy's stance on education and job training. Several called out Kim for being — as always — way too lenient of a parent. Others claimed that her husband simply wanted to prepare Brielle for the real world, which is far more competitive than the naive teen realizes.

Kroy's perspective

Kroy's perspective

Kroy Being Realistic

Kroy Being Realistic

Kim Disagrees with Kroy

Kim Disagrees with Kroy

Brielle, although often annoying, can almost be forgiven for acting like college and work training is no big deal. After all, she's been raised to believe that academic achievement isn't all that important. Kim, on the other hand, is less innocent. The reality star's celebrity connections are not nearly enough to guarantee her daughter a promising future. Kim needs to listen to her husband and encourage Brielle to pursue college or, at a minimum, some type of post-secondary training. The Bravo gravy train will eventually come to a halt and, when it does, Brielle will need marketable skills.

More: Brielle Biermann is spoiled with a capital "S"

Do you agree with Kroy Biermann? Should Brielle go to college? Comment and share your opinion below.

Scandal's Olivia channels Shonda Rhimes for some 'angry black woman' revenge

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We already knew the Scandal showrunner didn't let those "angry black woman" comments get her down, but now we have further proof that she didn't take them lying down, either, and instead used the article as a chance to educate.

More: Scandal review: Olivia Pope transforms TV heroines with one word

In fact, she took that public fuel and fired up tonight's episode of Scandal in the most brilliant way imaginable.

Olivia's life is different than Rhimes', to be sure. Olivia (Kerry Washington) is currently embroiled in a public image battle with the country as she fights to prove that she isn't some man-eating mistress but an intelligent woman who just happens to be black and happens to have fallen in love with a married man.

And the gladiators came out in full force to defend Olivia and, as is the case most of the time with Rhimes, art mirrored life. Because the gladiators weren't just defending Olivia, they were also defending Rhimes, who probably has as many similarities to her TV heroine as differences.

"Just tell us why she won't defend herself as passionately as she defends her clients. She's usually so well spoken," one reporter said to new gladiator Marcus Walker (Cornelius Smith Jr.) during the episode.

More: Was the Princess Diana story line still too soon?

He immediately turned on the ignorant reporter and said, "For a black woman. She's usually so well-spoken for a black woman. Isn't that what you meant? I say that because I've been looking at the last 72 hours of your station's news coverage and when you're not suggesting that Olivia Pope is an 'angry black woman,' you're implying she's a homewrecker who slept her way to the top."

Now that is "gladiating."

In this one scene of the show, Rhimes and Olivia's lives blurred together so seamlessly and so poignantly, it was impossible to ignore.

Rhimes, rightfully so, is keeping the "angry black woman" conversation going through her characters. But she's also taking a stand in the discussion, showcasing to viewers why the sentiment is misguided and ignorant.

More: Shonda Rhimes reveals the big picture all Grey's Anatomy fans are missing

"Lucky," "sassy," "ambitious," "well-spoken," "well-mannered," "articulate," "shrill," "calculating," "overconfident," "secretive," "urban" and "hotblooded" are just some of the buzzwords the episode points out as offensive and is considered coded language when used in regard to black women.

This episode of Scandal was probably my favorite in a long time. (Though, admittedly, I think I say that every week.) But I can't get enough of the way Rhimes integrated her own experiences into Olivia's experience and then used that as a platform to show Olivia overcoming adversity.

Brava, Ms. Rhimes, brava.

The Vampire Diaries: 6 Men who could be Caroline's future fiancé

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Namely, her fiancé isn't Stefan (Paul Wesley). We repeat: Her fiancé isn't Stefan.

More: The Vampire Diaries spoiler: Paul Wesley reveals the future for Steroline

Sorry, all you Steroline shippers, but that was the shocker of the episode. Don't worry; you're not alone in your disbelief.

Side note: I'm going to go ahead and ignore that whole arrow situation at the end of the episode for now, because there is no way Caroline is actually dead.

So, who did our favorite blonde from Mystic Falls end up falling for? Here are the eligible bachelors who may have stolen her heart in the end.

Caroline and Klaus
Image: The CW

1. Klaus

Obviously. Because I will never give up on Klaroline. Plus, if Caroline had to leave Mystic Falls, what better place to head to than New Orleans?

Caroline and Enzo
Image: The CW

2. Enzo

He and Caroline have always had quite the fiery spark. Not to mention, Caroline has always had a thing for bad boys, so the pairing seems more than suitable.

More: 9 Couples that could heat up The Vampire Diaries Season 7

Caroline and Damon
Image: The CW

3. Damon

Don't freak out. I'm not putting this one out there as a serious thing. It's out there more as a "what if they're undercover and have to pretend like they like each other?" kind of thing. After all, Damon (Ian Somerhalder) is facing the possibility of being forced to leave Mystic Falls for good, which means Caroline's comment about not being able to return makes sense.The two could be faking a relationship in order to maintain the facade of a normal life.

Caroline and Tyler
Image: The CW

4. Tyler

I mean, after Tyler freaked out on Caroline because she slept with Klaus, I totally checked out of anything ever happening between these two. But for all we know, he could be returning to the show. Still, I'd probably rather she be engaged to Damon at this point than Tyler. Yeah, I said it.

Caroline and Matt
Image: The CW

5. Matt

If Matt were a girl, the saying "always a bridesmaid, never a bride" would be perfect for him. Poor guy is always the punching bag. I mean, he died for Caroline in tonight's episode for crying out loud! Give the man some love already!

More: The Vampire Diaries will introduce its first same-sex couple in Season 7

6. An unknown

It could be that this season Caroline will meet someone who will completely sweep her off her feet. Perhaps we haven't met her mystery fiancé yet. But, then again, that doesn't sound nearly as fun as the guys we've come to know and love. Plus, doesn't Caroline have enough men to chose from at this point?

Who do you think Caroline should end up with in the end?

Mental health care from your smartphone might not be the answer

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More: Moving video shows what life with schizophrenia is really like (WATCH)

But when it comes to mental health can a smartphone really replace direct access to an experienced, qualified professional?

No, says Simon Leigh, health economist from the University of Liverpool. Writing for The Conversation, he says there is “a large gap between the theoretical benefits of mental health apps and what they are likely to deliver in practice.”

On the face of it mental health apps could be a good alternative form of therapy for those unable to access more conventional treatments, such as those who are too fragile or self-conscious to discuss their condition face-to-face, or those who can’t afford to pay for talking therapies (a 2014 report from the We Need to Talk coalition showed that 50 percent of people waiting for NHS counselling and psychotherapy have to wait over three months for their first session, and one in 10 of them have to wait for a year or longer).

The NHS health apps library endorses 27 mental health apps, 14 of which aim to treat or manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. According to Leigh, only four of these apps currently provide any hard evidence of effectiveness. And only two of them use NHS-accredited ways of determining how effective mental health treatments are, for example the Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7 questionnaire.

More: Anxiety hashtag provides support to those who struggle with the illness

The main issue is that those who trust the apps endorsed by the NHS may end up feeling even worse if they don't prove to be beneficial.

The good news is that from Oct. 16 the NHS health apps library will no longer exist and the organisation is looking for new, improved methods of assessing and regulating health apps.

In the meantime the Mental Health Apps Library, which was set up in March 2015, provides details of apps and online tools that may be therapeutic for people with mild and moderate anxiety and depression. Each one complies with Improving Access to Psychological Therapies quality standards,and offers National Institute of Health and Care Excellence approved treatments that can demonstrate effectiveness in treating mild and moderate depression and anxiety. Some are only available via NHS referral, while others can be paid for privately.

Apps listed include Big White Wall, an anonymous service that provides a "safe and supportive community" and trained staff around the clock; Buddy, a digital diary which is recommended for use alongside face-to-face therapy sessions; and Leso Digital Health, which "offers live, confidential one-to-one cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with a therapist via secure instant messaging."

If you are experiencing mental health difficulties visit Mind (England and Wales) or SAMH (Scotland) for information, help and support.

More: Recovery Bag Project sends "tool kits" to aid mental health recovery

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