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Caramelized peaches with lemon shortbread

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Peaches with lemon shortbread recipe

Sweet caramelized peaches with crunchy shortbread cookies and ice cream. (Choose your favorite flavor. I prefer classic vanilla bean, pistachio, red bean or the most amazing — peanut butter!)

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups flour
  • 6 peaches, cut into halves
  • 3 tablespoons butter (extra)
  • Cinnamon
  • 4 tablespoons brown sugar
  • Ice cream as desired

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
  3. Add powdered sugar and lemon zest, whip until smooth then add vanilla and beat again.
  4. Add salt and stir in the flour, mix until combined.
  5. Form the dough and freeze until firm for approximately 30 minutes.
  6. Slice the dough into thick slices. Place the cookies on the tray covered baking paper.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
  8. Let them cool on the pan for 5 to 7 minutes, then cool them in the fridge.
  9. In a big saucepan, melt the butter on the over-medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir. Add half cut peaches, stir and wait until peaches are soft. Add cinnamon.
  10. Serve the peaches with 2 cookies and place ice cream between the cookies.

More recipes on the blog Loving Kitchen


JWoww drops baby bombshell in the middle of her wedding

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The reality TV star and her new husband, along with their 15-month-old daughter, Meilani, revealed that baby number two is on the way! Friends and family were already gathered in celebration of the Oct. 18 wedding, giving the couple a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share even more joy with their guests.

More: Ivanka Trump releases hilarious recorded baby announcement

Former Jersey Shore co-stars Snooki Polizzi, Sammi Giancola and Deena Cortese were present, as were Marriage Boot Camp co-stars Ryan and Trista Sutter. Little Meilani served as the flower girl for her parents.

Jenni, 29, and Roger, 40, brought out a giant baby announcement featuring Meilani and the quote, “I’m going to be a BIG SISTER!! May 2016.” The guests were overcome with happiness for the newlyweds.

More: Couple sets new bar for viral pregnancy announcement

"This was one of the hardest secrets to keep, but it was one of the most memorable parts of our wedding!" JWoww told E! News. "The reaction from everyone was priceless. Roger and I only told our publicist and our nanny that we were expecting, so to watch everyone's face when Roger announced it was priceless."

Loved ones gathered all in one place for one event and two celebrations! What better way to share such wonderful news? Best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Mathews, Meilani and the new baby on the way!

More: Fun ways to announce your pregnancy

Jessa Duggar's fans think she's having a girl, but the reason is odd (PHOTO)

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More: Jessa Duggar's beau is getting plenty of practice before their baby (PHOTO)

Over the weekend, Duggar took to Instagram to share a picture of her day out with her mom-in-law, and the activities they got up to. She captioned the image with, "My sweet mother-in-law treated me to a pumpkin spice drink from#MamaCarmens, and Sierra insisted that I get something cheery painted on my toes in prep for labor! Y'all are spoiling me! --with @sierrajodominguez & @seewaldfamily at @mama_carmens."

One of the images shows Duggar's bright pink nail polish, which has made some fans jump to the conclusion that she could be having a girl.

Jessa Duggar Instagram

Jessa Duggar Instagram

"I think it's a girl!!!" kimy94 wrote, accompanied by a painting nails emoticon.

More: Jessa Duggar's pregnancy update draws surprisingly mixed reactions (PHOTO)

"You are not having twins, so I guess the baby will be a girl. Good luck Jessa, may you have a healthy baby, no matter boy or girl," donnaheiderscheit contemplated.

Other comments on the picture include, "pink nails because she's having a girl," "I think she's having a girl!", and "Does pink mean it's a girl?!?!?!?" jessi._.cox asked.

Instagram user my2jkids had the same thought, writing, "It looks lime [sic] a girlie design. ....could it be a girl?"

More: Jessa Duggar reveals she and her husband are considering a big move

Duggar and her husband Ben Seewald have kept the gender of their baby a secret, and fans have not stopped guessing throughout their pregnancy. Could Duggar's nail polish mean that she's having a baby girl? Or are fans just getting way too excited? Die-hard fans will be pleased that there are only a couple of weeks to wait before all of their questions are finally answered.

Let us know your thoughts on the image in the comments below.

Duggars Instagram post slideshow

Chester Council hunts for artists who used city benches to make a statement

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More: Outrage as student claims sex consent workshop doesn't apply to him

While humorous in tone, the plaques had a serious purpose: to raise awareness of the plight of the city’s homeless.

Chester bench plaque 1

Chester bench plaque 1

Chester Bench plaque 2

Chester Bench plaque 2

More: Shocking anti-Muslim tirade on a London bus goes viral (WATCH)

Another plaque read: "If you shut your eyes for more than 10 seconds whilst on this bench, you may be deemed asleep, and risk facing an ASBO. By Order of Public Space Protection Orders under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014."

The Council has now removed the plaques and is keen to track down the rebellious artists. "Some people may find them offensive," Maria Byrne, head of place operations for Cheshire West and Chester Council, told The Chester Chronicle. "It has cost the Council taxpayer money for officers to locate and remove them. If anyone knows who is responsible we would like to hear from them."

“This was all done in good grace and with no malice or thought of financial gain," said one of the unidentified street artists. “We just hope the residents and visitors of Chester enjoyed them while they could.”

The proposed Public Space Protection Order aims to address antisocial behaviour issues that are having an impact on residents, businesses and visitors across Chester city centre. These include legal highs, street drinking, rough sleeping, begging, busking and feeding birds. Cabinet member for children and families, Nicole Meardon, previously said the aim is to ensure everyone can enjoy public spaces.

Over 17,000 people have signed two online petitions against the plans, amid fears the city’s homeless and most socially vulnerable would suffer.

More: Photographer's startling images show what cellphones are really doing to us

Kaley Cuoco's ex-husband's request for spousal support angers her fans

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More: The Big Bang Theory's Kaley Cuoco's divorce rumors finally caught up with her

After a whirlwind romance and two years of marriage, Cuoco and Sweeting filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences, but there are still some legal matters that need to be ironed out, including the fact that Sweeting is now asking for spousal support.

According to court documents obtained by People magazine, Sweeting is also requesting that the court's ability to grant spousal support to Cuoco be terminated.

Although Cuoco and Sweeting were only together for three months before their decision to marry, they did have a prenuptial agreement in place, which they both signed before their nuptials. According to Us Weekly, per Cuoco's filed documents, spousal support is payable, according to their prenup.

More: The Big Bang Theory ruins fans' dreams with ridiculous wedding drama

Her marriage may not have worked out, and she may have to pay for it (literally), but Cuoco appears to be in a really good place in her life right now.

On Tuesday, she uploaded a Polaroid snap of herself and costars Johnny Galecki and Melissa Rauch. She captioned the picture with, "Serious Polaroid work on set today." And fans are loving it (and not-so-secretly hoping she and Galecki may get back together).

Kaley Cuoco Instagram

Kaley Cuoco Instagram

"Get back together with @sanctionedjohnnygalecki," one fan wrote. fernandafdelima agreed, writing, "You guys @normancookand @sanctionedjohnnygalecki were meant for each other... AND get used to it AND dot."

More: The Big Bang Theory stars squash dating rumors with two adorable pics

Other comments include, "Adorableee," "Love you guys," and "So much love in one picture."

But there has also been some mention of spousal support, and it's evident that fans are not impressed by Sweeting's request.

imjimfernbitch wrote, "Dude that asshole wants spousal support??!!! What a jerkoff!! @normancook."

Another fan, marctrejoGirl, shared her thoughts, writing, "if it is true ur ex wants spousal support tell him to grow a pair."

And some fans just couldn't believe the request, as allcanadiangrlIs asked, "he really asking for support? !?! Smfh."

Does the news that Ryan Sweeting is asking Kaley Cuoco for spousal support surprise you? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Celebrity divorces in 2015

Rapid Reads: 6 Big stories of the day

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1. Bad move

Yesterday, Texas defunded all Planned Parenthood clinics in the state. They cut the nonprofit off from Medicaid funding because of concerns over those doctored videos that claim Planned Parenthood sells fetal tissue (it does not). Texas Governor Greg Abbott said, "Ending the Medicaid participation of Planned Parenthood is another step in providing greater access to safe healthcare for women," which is absurd because Medicaid funding cannot be used toward abortions, so basically Texas is just preventing women from accessing cancer screenings and birth control. How "safe" of them. — NBC News

More: Indiana gets HIV outbreak after shutting down Planned Parenthood clinics

2. Jim Webb, 2.0

Jim Webb, the candidate in the Democratic debate who kept complaining about not getting to talk, is going to change things up and run as an independent. He's expected to make the announcement this afternoon at a press conference in Washington, where he promises to discuss "his candidacy, the campaign, and his views of the political party in the current election cycle." Given that he loves guns, oil, bragging about how he once killed a dude, and he's currently polling at two percent, do most people care what Jim Webb does? — USA Today

3. O, Canada

Canada has a shiny new parliament. Yesterday Canadian voters ousted Stephen Harper and his conservatives and brought in Justin Trudeau and the liberals. Harper ran the show for almost a decade and disagreed with the U.S. about important things like the Keystone Pipeline. Trudeau should usher in a time of better relations with America, as well as make huge improvements in his own country. Job well done, Canada! — Associated Press

More: Who's in Hollywood: 20 Canadian celebrities

4. This is my confession

An old man called into a Milwaukee news station and confessed to a murder that took place in 1982. He claims 33 years ago he pushed Carrie Ann Jopek down a flight of stairs and buried her under her porch. Jopek's body was found in 1983, but the circumstances of her death have remained a mystery ever since. Now they finally have some answers and the caller, Jose Ferreira, has been arrested and charged with murder. — Washington Post

5. You got a permit for that thing?

Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced the formation of a task force devoted to registering drones. The move comes after a series of accidents and near-accidents involving recreational drones. So far in 2015, pilots have reported more than 100 instances of unsafe activity by "unmanned aerial vehicles." Drone sales have increased exponentially in the past few years, so there's really no choice but to institute some regulations. — CNN

More: Yep, you can hire a drone to be your wedding photographer

6. Oh, brother

Last night commissioners in Greene County, Tennessee, stomped out a proposal to fly the Confederate flag outside county court houses. In fact, the only person who voted in favor of the proposal was Jim Randolph, the guy who came up with it. He said it's about history, and it "ain't got anything to do with race." Luckily, his co-commissioners seem a little bit more "in the know," and Greene County courthouses won't be paying homage to a symbol of hate anytime soon. — CBS News

8 Etsy beauty brands that will make you reconsider mainstream products

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Once only favored by true beauty fiends, indie beauty brands are getting a lot of attention lately. Small-batch, all-natural and truly unique beauty products are finding their way into the hands of the public much more frequently.

Thanks to online marketplace Etsy, one-of-a-kind, handmade and all-around quirky beauty products are accessible with just the click of a button. Your beauty cabinet will never be the same again thanks to these eight Etsy beauty shops.

1. Vice & Velvet

Image: Vice & Velvet

Australian-based Vice & Velvet is the brainchild of creator and founder Mei, who uses natural, sustainably sourced ingredients to make her homemade soaps and body products. Garnished in wonderfully simple packaging, any Vice & Velvet product would be a welcome addition to our bathroom. However, we must admit we're scoping out the Jewel Soap Gift Set, $27, specifically.

2. Fat and The Moon

Image: Fat and The Moon

After leaving Brooklyn, New York, Fat and The Moon owner Rachel headed to secluded California to pursue making handcrafted, plant-based personal care products. Products include everything from lip and cheek stain to deodorant and tooth balm, but expecting moms will especially enjoy slathering on the Growing Belly Balm, $16, a rich cocoa and shea butter cocktail.

3. Glory Boon

Image: Glory Boon

In case you're looking for a more natural alternative to your drugstore foundation, look no further than Glory Boon, a beauty shop with the mind to create "wholesome, handcrafted cosmetics." These paraben-free, phthalate-free and 100 percent cruelty-free products can just about take over your beauty bag with concealers, mascaras, contouring sticks, and our personal faves, the Natural Liquid Foundation, $18.

4. Mullein & Sparrow

Image: Mullein & Sparrow

Based on founder Anit's love of herbal medicine, Mullein & Sparrow boasts a line of products meant to soothe, calm and bring a sense of balance and simplicity to consumers' lives. It's hard to pick a favorite among the array of finds, but we can't say no to a de-stressing Organic Herbal Facial Steam, $14.

5. Black Widow Balm

Image: Black Widow Balm

Founded in 2011, Black Widow Balm stems from founder Shareta's wish to find moisturizing lip color while still staying true to her beliefs of respecting nature. Today, the brand remains cruelty free, uses recyclable packaging and offers a rewards program for customers to recycle empty tubes. We're coveting the handmade Kiss of Death Color Balm with aromatic basil, clove and cinnamon oils, $10. Not only do you get rich color, but thanks to a mild blend of fragrances, you get spicy pucker too.

6. So Gloss

Image: So Gloss

Nail art no longer has to be so elusive. With So Gloss nail wraps, decorative nails are as easy as can be. Run by one-woman-show Jesse, So Gloss uses heat to adhere vinyl wraps to nails for a perfect-every-time mani. Although there's just about a design for every occasion, we hardly think you can go wrong with the White Modern French Manicure, $8.

7. Whiskey Ink & Lace

Image: Whiskey Ink & Lace

This beauty brand isn't just for the ladies. Men can also find some stellar products from handcrafted Portland-based Whiskey Ink & Lace. The Lumberjack Beard Kit, $32, will make an excellent addition to any beard buff's collection, while the Espresso Face Cream, $18, will be hard for caffeine addicts to turn down.

8. Xplosive CosmetiX

Image: Xplosive CosmetiX

There's no other word to describe Xplosive CosmetiX other than fun. These handmade luxury bath goodies bring a smile to our faces — not to mention make our mouths water with their good-enough-to-eat flavors. Just in time for fall, we're eyeing The Fluffy Whipped Soap in Pumpkin Spice, $7.

Movie Review for Parents: Bridge of Spies

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Is Bridge of Spies too violent and gritty for your tween? Find out in the video below, and learn why this film was awarded a seal of excellence at Common Sense Media.

Movie Review for Parents: Brideg of Spies

Movie Review for Parents: Brideg of Spies


Channing Tatum wins the Internet with hilarious Halloween costume (PHOTO)

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More: Channing Tatum performs a Magic Mike scene — written by kids (VIDEO)

Taking to Instagram on Monday, Tatum shared a picture of himself sporting a rather gangster-looking Winnie the Pooh costume, which he wore to his daughter Everly Tatum's school. He captioned the image, "Pretty sure I terrified all the children at our daughter's Halloween carnival today. Btw- I'm pooh bear in case anyone can't tell."

And judging by the reaction to the post, fans are clearly impressed with Tatum's choice of outfit.

Channing Tatum Instagram

Channing Tatum Instagram

"Is there going to be another Jump Street films? This would be a good under cover [sic] outfit," judithw27 shared.

More: Channing Tatum shares sexy, topless photos of Jenna Dewan Tatum

Instagram user rainia30 was impressed with the comfort factor of the costume. They wrote, "That looks kinda comfortable......gotta take a good look at my lifestyle."

"Haha, so good chann!! I love you so much man, all the love from sydney :)," k.shaw14 gushed.

Other comments on the picture include, "That cracks me up," "Omg that takes pooh bear to a whole nother [sic] level," "Omg is beautiful !," and "Winnie the Pooh suddenly became sexy af."

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

While other celebs have caused controversy with their Halloween costumes — Pretty Little Liars star Ashley Benson was the most recent celeb to create an uproar — Tatum can do no wrong, and the picture already has more than 344,000 likes.

Impressed? Horrified? Let us know what you think of Channing Tatum's look in the comments below.

channing tatum quotes slideshow

Artist creates spookiest Halloween house ever (PHOTOS)

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More: 5 Witchy ways to celebrate Halloween

L.A. based artist, photographer and baker Christine McConnell's Instagram account is a total treat all year round but she really pushes the envelope every Halloween.

Each October she uses her creative genius to transform her parents' house into the best haunted house ever.

Admittedly she has pretty good material to start with. This is the house back at the turn of the 20th century. Doesn't it already look like a house from a Hitchcock movie?

Haunted house 1

Haunted house 1

Courtesy: Christine McConnell/Instagram

This year's transformation was epic. McConnell created huge eyes and teeth out of foam-core insulation board.

Haunted house 2

Haunted house 2

Courtesy: Christine McConnell/Instagram

More: Vloggers test kids' Halloween costumes and the results are terrifying (WATCH)

Strategically positioned some enormous spiders…

Haunted house 3

Haunted house 3

Courtesy: Christine McConnell/Instagram

Replaced all the globes with green bulbs, dotted green spotlights around the garden and switched on the fog machine.

Haunted house 4

Haunted house 4

Courtesy: Christine McConnell/Instagram

McConnell's previous haunted house efforts have been nothing short of impressive but we reckon this year's is the best yet.

Haunted house 6

Haunted house 6

Courtesy: Christine McConnell/Instagram

Haunted house 5

Haunted house 5

Courtesy: Christine McConnell/Instagram

We're already excited to see what next year will bring. Check out McConnell's Instagram account for all her spooky creations, fabulous photography and baking delights.

More: Beauty blogger provides the most scarily awesome Halloween inspiration

Kennel cough symptoms every dog owner should know

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Kennel cough, the scientific name for which is tracheobronchitis, can have multiple causes, the most common of which is a bacteria called Bordetella bronchiseptica m. Generally, dogs that contract the bacteria are also infected with one of several viruses — canine distemper, canine adenovirus, parainfluenza virus, canine reovirus or canine herpes — that makes them more likely to contract kennel cough.

How dogs catch kennel cough

There are also several ways to contract kennel cough. The bacteria and virus particles are airborne, so dogs can catch it by inhaling those, whether or not an infected dog is present at the time. The bacteria and viruses may also be on objects they come in contact with.

They can also catch it when they're in close proximity with a dog that's infected. Keep in mind that some dogs can be carriers without showing symptoms.

The symptoms of kennel cough

Kennel cough has several symptoms, but it's important to note that not all dogs will exhibit all symptoms.

  • A persistent dry cough
  • Retching
  • Runny nose
  • (Sometimes) lethargy
  • (Sometimes) decreased appetite
  • (Sometimes) fever

In mild cases, dogs won't exhibit any decreased activity or appetite or have a fever, but in serious cases, the symptoms could eventually progress to include those symptoms. It can also become pneumonia. Untreated, kennel cough can result in death.

What to do if your dog may have kennel cough

Keep your dog away from other dogs, including any other dogs you have. In a multi-dog household, even seemingly unaffected animals should be kept away from other dogs until you're sure they aren't infected.

Clean and disinfect your house from top to bottom to prevent other dogs from getting sick if at all possible. Keep disinfecting regularly until your infected dog has been well for at least a week.

Schedule an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. He or she may request that you also bring in your other dogs, though the vet may suggest just monitoring them. If your dog is diagnosed with kennel cough, it will take three to four weeks (it may be longer if your dog is immunocompromised, such as an elderly or very young dog).

In the meantime, with your vet's approval (or even afterward), you might consider giving your dog honey to soothe its throat (about a teaspoon several times a day). You can also ask your vet about cough medicine (the dose and type will be determined by your dog's breed and size, which your vet can help you with). You'll want to use a humidifier, keep your dog away from smoke and make sure it's not overly stressed (which can impede recovery). If you have to walk it, use a harness as a collar can put pressure on its throat and cause irritation.

Your vet will probably prescribe antibiotics and perhaps something to soothe its cough or throat.

Preventing kennel cough

The best way to prevent kennel cough is to get your dog vaccinated, especially if it's around other dogs frequently. However, there are also other preventative methods.

Make sure you know about the dogs yours associates with. Yes, that even means asking friends about their dogs' vaccination histories before scheduling play dates.

Be careful at the dog park. You absolutely shouldn't take an unvaccinated dog to one as you have no control over what others do. If your dog isn't vaccinated, you are taking a risk, but either way, keep it away from other animals while you're there and don't let it lick or play with anything you didn't bring. That doesn't mean it still won't pick it up.

If you have to board your pet, make sure the facility looks clean and well-maintained. Ask them if they sanitize regularly (and on what schedule) and ask if they have an air-purifying or disinfectant unit installed (and ask if it's in working order and properly maintained). Above all, do not take your pet to any boarder, groomer or daycare facility that doesn't require proof of current vaccinations.

Sources: PetAirapy, WebMD, PetMD

More pet safety tips

Before you board your pet, know these safety tips
Why you shouldn't let your dog put its head out the window
Lyme disease is on the rise for dogs and their owners

4 Tips for managing cell phone use with text-happy kids

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Staying in touch with friends is super important to tweens and teens, but if cell phone use is getting in the way of family time, homework and other responsibilities, it might be time to help your kid manage his or her phone time.

Here's a few tips:

  • Help kids find space for face-to-face conversations.Put phones down during key conversation times such as dinner or car rides.
  • Model the manners and behavior you want to see. Avoid texting in the car. Consider narrating your phone use — "I'm looking up directions to the party," — so young kids understand the utility of the device. Make sure to excuse yourself if you have to interrupt a family moment to attend to your phone.
  • Charge your kids' phones in your room at night.Removing their phones can give kids a needed break.
  • Establish consequences for problematic phone use. If your kids are having trouble putting the phone away when you ask or are engaging in other problematic phone-related behavior, consider instituting temporary time or location limits. Some wireless carriers offer parental controls that let you set daily phone-use limits, and some apps can disable your kid's phone when he or she hits a limit.

5 Ways to stop sweaty hands from embarrassing you left and right

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“Technically called hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating can be an embarrassing problem,” says Dr. Leslie Baumann, an internationally board-certified dermatologist in Miami, Florida. "Unless you suffer, most people don’t realize what an impact it has on a person's life... imagine avoiding shaking hands throughout the day."

Fortunately, there are definitive steps a person with super-sweaty palms can take to curtail the glisten. Read on if you’re among the clammy-clasp challenged because with fall — handholding weather — in full swing, you don’t want to miss out! In other words, this is a good time to, well, take matters into your own hands.

1. Curb your anxiety

Believe it or not, one of the top triggers for sweaty palms... is worrying that you’re going to have sweaty palms. “Excepting medical causes, which I believe are not that common, we can assume that almost all sweaty palms can be attributed to a form of performance anxiety,” says James I. Millhouse, Ph.D., a licensed psychotherapist and author of The Parents Manual of Sport Psychology. “Most people with this condition tend to experience a lot of anxiety with regard to imagined future events. A person needs to realize that perception is not necessarily reality. It is important to understand the difference between wanting something to be a certain way, such as a person liking them, and it being critical that this happen.” When a person who sweats excessively trips their anxiety meter, their eccrine glands will kick into overdrive and produce a sticky, non-smelly sweat on their hands and feet. From a primal standpoint, this comes from the fight-or-flight response (or a need to grip something harder... like a tree branch).

The way to combat this response? Learning to take a chill pill. “Excessive sweating comes with higher activation of the sympathetic nervous system, so relaxation procedures that decrease sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation and conversely increase parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activation can act to decrease sweating,” says Millhouse. Biofeedback, meditation, psychotherapy and self-hypnosis can all have a positive effect for those suffering from super-sweaty hands, triggered by stress. “Dealing with this condition psychophysiologically, as described above, is the first choice to eliminate this problem at the source and has produced dramatic results,” says Millhouse.

2. Use a hand antiperspirant

In the same way that you control underarm sweat with a roll-on, those ingredients will help stop slimy hands on the spot. The only problem is that regular drugstore antiperspirants can leave a film on your hands or be irritating. Fortunately, other sweaty-hand sufferers have started to develop products that can stop the sweat without the redness or obvious coating. One to check out? Carpe lotion — an antiperspirant hand lotion that uses a much stronger and more effective aluminum salt in its composition along with eucalyptus oil (to prevent irritation) that will keep hands sweat-free for four hours or more. It is also said to reduce sweat reduction by 60 percent, if applied daily on a long-term basis.

To use you simply rub a pea-sized amount into palms for 10 to 15 seconds and wait 10 minutes before whatever handholding activity you wish to undertake.

3. Consider a prescription

While there aren't any over-the-counter meds a person can take to stop sweaty hands, there are some prescription pharmaceuticals that may help. "An easy trick to stopping sweaty palms, at least temporarily, is with a class of drugs called anticholinergics, two notable examples of which are atropine and dicyclomine," says Morton Tavel, M.D., clinical professor emeritus of medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine and author of the recently released Health Tips, Myths, and Tricks: A Physician's Advice. "They are generally used for gastrointestinal disorders such as ulcers and irritable colon, but one of their regular 'side effects' is a dry mouth usually associated with drying of sweaty palms (not usually mentioned in the drug literature). The interruption of sweating results from blockage of the part of the nervous system that enhances sweat production."

Though not suitable for persons with glaucoma, this class of drugs can offer relief for many with overactive sweat responses. As always, check with a physician to see if this is an option for you and heed any contraindication warnings. But, for those who might prefer to take a pill and forget about it, this is a potential sweat-reducing popper.

4. Shoot 'em up

Botox, the popular wrinkle-wrangler, has another use that many people may not be aware of... it can effectively treat hyperhidrosis. Though it's not cheap (a typical treatment requires 50-100 units at $10-$15 a unit), it can be very effective in curtailing sweaty palms. "Botox works by temporarily disabling the sweat glands in treated areas for a drastic reduction in perspiration for up to six months," says Dr. Baumann. "A tiny needle is used to inject the Botox just under the skin’s surface to temporarily disable the sweat glands and a numbing cream is often used to keep discomfort to a minimum so there’s no downtime." Though Botox is only FDA approved for use in the armpits, also known as axilla, it can be used off-label for the palms, feet, scalp and beyond. Similar to topical creams, there is some evidence that results may last longer with subsequent treatments. Though this isn't a pain-free option, it is frequently efficacious.

5. Keep a short-term arsenal handy

Let's face it: It's not always convenient to deal with sweaty hands in the spur of the moment. Some days, there may not be time for shots at the doc or a meditation session. When that happens, it's good to know a few workarounds.

One super-quick fix? Use hand sanitizer. "Many topical treatments contain aluminum chloride and ethyl alcohol and using hand sanitizer may just cause more harm than good, however if on none of these hand sanitizers with ethyl alcohol may help dry the palms," says Gillian Palette, a board-certified adult nurse practitioner, who also recommends people carry paper towels, wear cotton clothing (onto which a person could quickly wipe their hands) or wear gloves with natural fibers (stay away from synthetic fabrics as they will increase sweating and irritation).

The bottom line is: There are options — because no one should have to hold back from romantically interlocking fingers with an amour because of a few drippy digits.

Brandi Glanville gives her son very controversial advice for his first date

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More: Brandi Glanville claims reality shows are as bad as abusive boyfriends

Well, most of us wouldn't ask that question on a first date, but Brandi Glanville thinks it's a great starting point — for her 12-year-old son.

Glanville recently took to Twitter to inform fans that her son, Mason, was going on his first date and to help him out, she made a list of questions he should ask his date.

Brandi Glanville Twitter

Brandi Glanville Twitter

Among the 13 questions are "favorite color" and "favorite singer," but then things take a sharp turn with question No. 6, which reads, "is she a virgin."

More: Brandi Glanville and Joanna Krupa's 'smelly' lawsuit takes a strange turn

Glanville has been getting a lot of backlash for her tweet, which resulted in her writing a follow-up one, which reads, "If you think 12 is too young at this point in our age to ask if someone's a virgin you're sadly mistaken get with the f**ing times."

The reactions from fans and critics alike range from confusion to downright disgust.

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter 3

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter 3

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter 4

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter 4

More: Andy Cohen wants Brandi Glanville back on RHOBH, but it's a bad idea for six reasons

Glanville's interaction with Twitter users was getting heated, and she followed up with another tweet about how 12-year-olds are growing up a lot faster these days.

Brandi Glanville Twitter 2

Brandi Glanville Twitter 2

Brandi Glanville Twitter 3

Brandi Glanville Twitter 3

While there are clearly a lot of people who find the question about virginity to be inappropriate, there are also people who agree with Glanville — and she has retweeted some of their comments on her account, one of which reads:

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter 5

Reaction to Brandi Glanville Twitter 5

What do you think of Brandi Glanville's virginity question? Is she right or is she way off the mark? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

brandi glanville leave rhobh slideshow
Image: FayesVision/WENN.com

How to make homemade sauerkraut — you'll never buy store-bought again

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It also turns out it's ridiculously simple to make. You'd think I'd already know that. My grandfather was stationed in Germany back in the day… my dad even lived there for a while. I was introduced to sauerkraut when I was a kid. I have this vague memory of my grandmother thinking it was hilarious I thought you could only get sauerkraut in a jar at the store. Guess I should have asked her how to make it.

It starts the same way any pickled or fermented recipe starts: by sterilizing the jars. The way I do it, there are two different sizes of jars to sterilize — the sauerkraut jar itself and the smaller jar used to weigh down the contents of the larger jar. Before beginning, make sure the smaller jar fits into the larger jar, but both should be sterilized.

Then you can start making your sauerkraut.

cabbage cut in half
Image: Heather Barnett/SheKnows

When your jars are sterilized, pull all the wilty outer leaves off the cabbage, and cut the cabbage in half.

cored cabbage
Image: Heather Barnett/SheKnows

Then use your knife to cut the core out of the halves by making triangular cuts around the stem.

quartered cabbage
Image: Heather Barnett/SheKnows

To make it easier to shred the cabbage, I like to cut the halves in half after that. This should keep them manageable when you're cutting them, which is important since you need uniform shreds.

shredded cabbage
Image: Heather Barnett/SheKnows

Use a mandoline to create uniform shreds. A food processor does shred, but it also generates a lot of varying sizes, which means the cabbage will ferment at different rates. That could result in uneven flavor throughout your sauerkraut. But a food processor's shredding attachment is better than hand slicing.

pouring salt over cabbage
Image: Heather Barnett/SheKnows

You can use many different types of salt, but not table salt. Pickling salt and sea salt are best, but kosher salt works too. Kosher salt is what most people will have on hand, but know that it may take longer to ferment with kosher salt. The wait is worth it, so if that's what you have, don't buy something you won't otherwise use.

Part of the point of this step is to pull the water out of the cabbage, but it also adds flavor. When you add the salt, be prepared — the cabbage starts to emit water really quickly. That's a good thing, but don't be surprised by how fast it happens.

cabbage mixed with caraway seed
Image: Heather Barnett/SheKnows

You don't need additional spices, though I do like caraway seeds. Dill seeds are also good. If you want to add those, now is the time. It's plenty wet from the water seeping from the cabbage, and it will mix thoroughly.

sauerkraut fermenting
Image: Heather Barnett/SheKnows

To ferment, you have to keep what's being fermented from exposure to air. That's why they used to bury fermenting goods. Pack the cabbage mix down really well into a couple of quart-size Mason jars. Get it good and packed, and don't fill it too full. You'll need to leave room for the weight.

I sterilized a smaller Mason jar (one that would fit into my main jar) and filled it with (clean) aquarium rocks. You can also use marbles. Heck, some people apparently use boiled rocks. You just need to weigh down the cabbage so it stays underneath the brine you created. Any cabbage floating on the top might get scum or mold on top. Both are removable when skimmed off the top, but if they sit too long, they can ruin your batch. Best not to risk it by not letting it happen.

I like to use a piece of clean fabric or cheesecloth instead of the metal disk when I seal it, as that lets gas escape — which reduces bubbling over — without letting dust in. The Mason jar ring will hold it in place. But if you can't do that, you can put a sheet pan under it to catch any fluids that bubble over while it's fermenting.

Homemade sauerkraut recipe

Yields about 1-1/2 quarts

Prep time: 30 minutes | Total time: 3-7 days

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2-1/2 pounds shredded)
  • 1-1/2 tablespoons pickling salt or other unrefined salt (may use kosher salt)
  • 1 tablespoon caraway seeds

Directions:

  1. Remove the loose, outer leaves from the cabbage head. Divide the cabbage through the middle with a sharp knife, using a slow, forceful rocking motion to cut the cabbage if you're having difficulty. Remove the thick cabbage cores, and divide each half in 2 for 4 equal quartered wedges. Shred the cabbage into thin, uniform ribbons using a knife, mandoline or food processor. Discard any chunks or uneven pieces.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, mix the salt with the cabbage using a salt ratio of roughly 1 tablespoon of unrefined salt per 2 pounds of cabbage. Massage the mixture with your hands to break down the cell walls of the cabbage until it starts to take on a more wilted, coleslaw-like texture and liquid begins to form (5 to 10 minutes). Add in the caraway seeds, and mix thoroughly.
  3. Scoop the sauerkraut mix and any liquid from the mixing bowl into sterilized Mason jars, packing down the cabbage mixture as much as possible using a pestle or wooden spoon, being sure to not overfill — leave plenty of room for an active, bubbly fermentation process and a small weight to keep the cabbage submerged. For the weight, a smaller Mason jar or jelly jar filled with clean stones or marbles works well, but the weight can really be as simple as a boiled stone. Place the weight into the Mason jar, ensuring all the cabbage is submerged.
  4. Cover the jar with a piece of cloth, and secure it with the metal band (no vacuum-seal lid).
  5. Store the sauerkraut in a cool area (from 65-75 degrees F) that is out of direct sunlight for 3 to 10 days. For the first 24 hours, gently press the weight down on the sauerkraut to encourage the water to rise. If the water hasn't covered the cabbage after 24 hours, make a brine by dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of water, and add enough water to the jar to completely submerge the cabbage. Check the sauerkraut every day to make sure none of the cabbage is floating above the water. If it is, gently tamp it down. After a day or so, fermentation should begin, and the mixture should begin to bubble. Start tasting after 3 to 4 days until you're happy with the flavor, but the longer you wait, the more flavorful your sauerkraut will be. When you're happy with the taste, remove the cloth, seal the jar using the flat vacuum-seal lid (instead of the cloth), and refrigerate. The sauerkraut should be good for about 2 months.

Important: You'll most likely see foam or white scum form on top as well, but don't be alarmed — it's all part of the process. If you see mold, however, skim it off, and verify that your cabbage is fully submerged — your sauerkraut should still be fine. While fermented foods are usually safe, use your best judgment when consuming them, the same as you would for any food. If the food looks suspicious or smells like it has spoiled, don't take any chances — throw it out.

More ways to make it homemade

How to make homemade tagliatelle without a pasta maker
How to make homemade soda — it's easier than you think
Easy homemade soft serve takes these ice cream sandwiches to another level


Day care closes for the night with a screaming baby inside (VIDEO)

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One Chicago father knows the feeling exactly. Cornelius Jones went to pick up his 1-year-old daughter, Journee, on what was only her fourth day at a new day care center, only to find the doors locked and no answer when he called the inside office. No one was there. Except Journee, of course, who was crying somewhere in the darkened building.

More: Why my kids neighborhood hop on Halloween

Jones wasted no time calling 911 and his partner, Journee's mother, Quanesha Borum. The door had to be broken down by firemen to get the baby out, but no answer as to why the baby was left alone was particularly satisfying or forthcoming. Borum certainly wasn't impressed with what the director, Tommie Butler, had to say:

"She said that the lady that was in charge of Journee put her to sleep, and once everybody got ready to leave, she told her that everybody was gone... But my thing is, I come in here, and I sign her in and out, so why wasn't the list checked before everybody left?" The director told Borum that an explanation for that could be that during a sweep of the building, Journee was mistaken for a doll.

daycare leaves baby inside

daycare leaves baby inside

Video: FOX32 Chicago

It seems child care workers should be able to differentiate between dolls and babies.

Journee was upset but unharmed, but her parents want the day care closed, in part because the police told them that this wasn't the first time this has happened at the site.

More: Horrific sunburn lands 2 kids in the hospital after day care field trip

Any working parent can imagine this nightmare scenario. It's one of the biggest fears you have when you drop your child off at a new center. What if something bad happens? Your baby is forgotten, even harmed? Usually we write these fears off as completely irrational, but the fact is, scenarios like this can and do happen more than any of us would like to admit.

But another truth is that many parents aren't even aware of what their day care's policies are for emergency plans and scenarios like this one. In this case, Journee's mother knew that the baby had to be signed in and out, which certainly compounded her anger and confusion. Why didn't the fact that no one had signed the 1-year-old out again at the end of the day raise any red flags?

There's often much, much more for parents to be aware of, though. Every day care should keep a list of who works there, what their credentials are and have multiple procedures in place for different kinds of emergencies, including when a child is forgotten in a nursery or classroom.

MoreOutrageous advice offered to girls to prevent kidnapping

Parents have a right to see this material, and if the day care doesn't offer it up readily in a handbook or as supplemental information at the time of enrollment, consider that a red flag. When you are vetting a day care, give yourself a second to think about worst-case scenarios: What would happen if there were a fire? An intruder? A missing child? Then ask how your provider handles those issues.

The Department of Health and Human Services in every state should have emergency preparedness documentation readily available online for providers to print out and fill in to keep their ducks in a row. Get your hands on the one for your state, and then go through it with your provider or potential provider.

Every day care is different. Some are bare-bones places with no frills; some are gleaming Montessori bastions that cost more than a mortgage. But every day care should, at a very minimum, be absolutely invested in the safety of the children in its care. If they seem reluctant to demonstrate that investment to you, they should absolutely be held accountable.

In this case, it seems practically inconceivable that this could happen not once, but twice, with very few repercussions for the owner.

Let's hope for the sake of babies like Journee that this will change when the investigation is complete.

5 No-carve pumpkin decorating ideas

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We bought small pumpkins and boxes of random craft supplies. Collectively, we brainstormed and created five little pumpkins sitting on the front porch waiting to greet trick-or-treaters. The options are endless when it comes to no-carve pumpkin decorating.

No Carve Pumpkins

Image: SheKnows

Melted crayon pumpkin

No Carve Pumpkins
Image: SheKnows

Buy a white pumpkin, glue and crayons. Glue your crayons on top of the pumpkin. Meanwhile, grab your hair dryer and point it toward each crayon until it melts the wax. Use the hair dryer to spread the wax to cover the pumpkin how you prefer. Watch as colors mix to create a unique and colorful pumpkin.

Mummy pumpkin

No Carve Pumpkins
Image: SheKnows

Gather supplies: pipe cleaner, googly eyes, white fabric ribbon, tacky glue and spray adhesive glue. Simply spray pieces of white fabric around the pumpkin. In between layers, glue the eyes and pipe cleaner for the mouth. Apply glue as you layer the ribbon pieces. Add a bow to the pumpkin stem for a girl mummy pumpkin.

Frankenstein pumpkin

No Carve Pumpkins
Image: SheKnows

Gather supplies: Pipe cleaners, green acrylic paint, two wine corks, hot glue gun, permanent marker, ribbon, button and black acrylic paint. Paint the pumpkin green and allow it to dry. Paint the stem and top of the pumpkin black and allow it to dry. Cut pipe cleaners to make two eyebrows and glue them to the pumpkin. Glue wine corks to make ears, the button to make a nose, and googly eyes. Create a mouth out of a chevron ribbon and glue it to the pumpkin.

Polka-dot pumpkin & Monogrammed pumpkin

No Carve Pumpkins
Image: SheKnows

For the polka-dot pumpkin

Use glitter shimmery spray and apply it all over the pumpkin. Allow time to dry. Paint polka dots on the pumpkin, and then apply jewels using glue. Add a bow to the pumpkin stem.

For the monogrammed pumpkin

Use acrylic paint (any color) to decorate the pumpkin and allow time to dry. Use a lighter shade to paint a letter on the front of the pumpkin. (Optional: use a stencil to paint a letter.) Allow it to dry and glue jewels on the letter. Add a bow to the stem.

What started as a few plain pumpkins and a tub full of art supplies transformed into a beautiful pumpkin patch complete with unique and fun fall decorations. Take pumpkin decorating to the next level and let your creativity soar, or save some time and make the pumpkins we made. I am sure you can put your own special spin on your own pumpkin this fall.

No Carve Pumpkins
Image: SheKnows

You might not be able to get this pregnancy announcement out of your head

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More: Couple's pregnancy announcement is straight up scary (VIDEO)

Jack and Beckah Shocklee are — you guessed it — expecting a baby, and they decided to announce it with a clever parody of Meghan Trainor's "Lips Are Movin'." Aside from the epic cuteness that is their young daughters getting in on the action, the best part of this video might just be how talented Mom and Dad are. Just wait until Mom opens her mouth:

Shocklee pregnancy

Shocklee pregnancy

Wowza! Did you find yourself singing along? Or is your mouth still hanging open from that moment Mom opened up and belted it?

Not only does she have adorable kids and some really happy news, but that mama has a wicked set of pipes on her! It should be no surprise that Beckah is apparently a singer-songwriter and Jack is a music producer.

More: The truth about the dolphin-assisted birth that made waves around the world

And not only are they talented, but they know how to play to their strengths. Which, hey, if you want to go viral with your big news, is key. It can be simple, it can be over the top, but these days you really need to be good to stand out.

And hey... some adorable kids in the background don't exactly hurt!

More: If pregnancy magazines were honest, here's what they'd say

Kim Kardashian's tribute to Lamar Odom earns her harsh criticism (PHOTO)

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More: Kim Kardashian makes selfless decision during Lamar Odom crisis

Odom's condition is improving, and on Monday, Kardashian posted a sweet picture of herself and Odom dancing, which she captioned, "I have faith in you. I believe in the power of prayer and positive energy! Thank you all for your prayers! Lammy- I'm so happy Kendall & I could make you smile today! God is good!."

But critics would like to take a moment and point out something: They thought Kardashian didn't like Odom.

Kim Kardashian Instagram

Kim Kardashian Instagram

More: Where's Caitlyn Jenner been during Lamar Odom's near-death overdose?

alllove213 wrote, "Why can't you let him recover in peace? You were always so nasty to him but now that this can provide you media coverage you are all lammy this and that. Fake phoney [sic] and pathetic."

"Ummm u hate lame wtf..kim's so fake loool," kay_onah slammed Kardashian.

"So fake. Wasn't you talking bad about him on your show," eazy_91 shared. And Instagram user mssonyad agreed, writing, "But you don't like him, remember? You don't want him to get any of your sister's money. Pls go away."

Other comments on the picture include, "fake," "This looks like a Photoshop pic," and "So phoney [sic]."

More: Kardashians share their feelings about Lamar Odom in pics (PHOTOS)

The criticism is particularly harsh. Even if Kardashian did not want Odom to be with her sister anymore, it does not mean she wishes anything bad upon him, and perhaps one fan's comment summed this all up.

"Jus [sic] because she wasnt [sic] fond of him anymore doesn't mean she wanted to see him die... i [sic] mean come on people. We all have sum1 [sic] we're not fond of but it doesn't mean we wanna [sic] see them dead... i [sic] truly think at 1 point n time she liked him 4 her sister... give kim a break... shes [sic] human," they_gone_luv_me_4_my_ambition wrote.

Do you agree? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Khloe and Lamar timeline slideshow
Image: WENN

Zooey Deschanel finally reveals 3-month-old daughter's name

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We all know Deschanel is the quirky girl on the block (becoming so known for her quirkiness in Hollywood that it's become comical), which is why most fans of the 35-year-old actress have been waiting in anticipation to find out what her new daughter will be named. Will it be extra quirky? Will it be extra cute? Will she shock us all and name her baby Gladys just because she can?

More: The hottest new baby girl names of 2014

The answer lies somewhere between column A and column B. Deschanel and her producer husband, Jacob Pechenik, are now the proud parents of 3-month-old Elsie Otter, as they confirmed to People at the New York City Rock the Kasbah premiere last week. Elsie is Deschanel and Pechenik's first child, born in Austin this past July, the same weekend the couple announced their surprise wedding.

So how did they choose her name? Deschanel and her husband explained to People that it has a certain ring to it when you say it all together. "It's Elsie… Otter. Like the animal — sea otter."

More: Unique but not weird baby names

Leave it to Deschanel to come up with a seemingly restrained baby name combo with a hidden, quirky meaning. Unlike other eccentric celebs who have gone "all the way" with their baby name choices — think Kim and Kanye's North West and, of course, Michael Jackson's Blanket — Deschanel seems to shoot for the traditional in her daughter's first name choice. Elsie, a shorter variation of Elizabeth, peaked in popularity in the 1890s, with current estimates at number 339 in Scotland and 740 in the United States.

Then we have Elsie's middle name, Otter, which registers off the charts. And by "off the charts," we mean: Good luck finding Otter on any traditional baby name list. Even after consulting the BabyCenter and U.S. Government Social Security database, Otter has very little backing as a baby name. This can only likely mean what we all think it means: Deschanel appears to have chosen her daughter's unconventional middle name after an (admittedly cute) animal.

More: Cool celebrity baby girl names

For those of us who look to celebrities for gossip, fashion and even baby naming styles, this presents us with a fun, new baby naming trend on the horizon. While Kristin Cavallari is making waves for allegedly planning to name her new daughter after a dog, Deschanel has opted to use the animal inspiration a little more discreetly. In summation: Choose a sweet and somewhat popular first name that won't get your child picked on in school, and then go crazy with the middle name people are less likely to hear.

Parents, if you have a penchant for weird baby names, or if you have a family name being passed down that you don't know what to do with, this may be the answer you have been looking for. Save your child the hassle of learning to write a difficult name (or explaining it later in a job interview), and take notes from this creative new mom. A traditional first name plus a quirky middle name equals an unforgettable baby name combo.

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