If you're like me and really aren't into the whole baking thing or just need a super-easy dessert, this recipe is for you. Boxed cake mix is transformed into one of the easiest desserts ever.

I used a yellow cake mix and added it to my slow cooker along with butterscotch pudding and caramel candies. Once baked, this turns into a deliciously warm, lava cake-like dessert that's topped with caramel ice cream before serving. Yum!

Slow cooker butterscotch cake recipe

Serves 12

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 4 hours | Total time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 large box butterscotch pudding mix
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 (15.25-ounce) box yellow cake mix
• 2 whole eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 cup caramel candies
• Caramel or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Spray the inside of the Crock-Pot bowl generously with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, prepare the butterscotch pudding by adding the milk and mixing well. Let stand for 5 minutes or until very thick.
3. Prepare the cake mix as directed on the box, then pour the batter into the Crock-Pot bowl.
4. Add in the butterscotch pudding and then the caramel candies.
5. Cover with the lid, and set to cook for 4 hours on low.
6. Once done, spoon the cake into serving bowls, top with ice cream, and serve immediately.

More slow cooker dessert recipes

Slow cooker chocolate lava cake
Slow cooker white chocolate-blueberry bread pudding
Slow cooker pumpkin pie

More: Teen fights back after her rape goes viral

Amber Amour, 27, was in South Africa with friends when she alleges she was assaulted by a man in a shower at her hostel. The New Yorker, who is currently on a tour to promote her "Stop Rape. Educate" campaign, which she started after she was attacked in New York, made the decision to live-blog the entire thing to her 25,000 Instagram followers through a series of images and lengthy posts, which are at times difficult to read.

Amber claims she was raped by a "local South African man" called Shakir, when she returned to her hostel after a day out — her first since being ill with food poisoning for two days.

"Shakir followed me upstairs and said he was going to take a shower," she wrote on Instagram. "He invited me to join. I said yes because the water at my current hostel is pretty cold and after 2 days of being sick, I just really wanted a hot shower."

Amber went on to say that as soon as she entered the bathroom, Shakir forced her to her knees, and became increasingly violent even though she asked him to stop. "He lifted me up and put his penis in my vagina," she wrote. "I asked him to stop, again, as I began to cry. When he shoved it in my ass, that’s when I passed out."

"I have all those f**ked up feelings that we get after rape… shame, disgust, suffering," she continued. "I’m here, alone, and any DNA has been wiped away in the shower."

Amber's second post was shared when she was on her way to the hospital the following day, with an image of the Angel Cards she drew the previous night.

"Dealing with cops is tough and the rape kit is the last thing I want-- tools and metal instruments and combs all up in my private parts… (sic) But this is what I stand for," she wrote. "I tell you guys to speak up every single day and I know that I need to practice what I preach. It is so incredibly hard, tho, but having you all here for me makes all the difference. I know that this may not go anywhere and I know that I may face ridicule by the police but I will take a shot at 'justice' anyway."

More: 8 Symptoms of surviving rape that are very, very real

The third harrowing post was an image of the rape kit and in the caption Amber thanked her supporters for their loving messages, which pushed her "to take action and to stand up for myself and for all rape survivors."

Responding to accusations from some people that Amber was somehow to blame for the attack, she posted: "No matter what a person does, it is not an invitation for rape. It doesn't matter if I kissed him. It doesn't matter if he was drunk. It doesn't matter if I said yes to a shower. I never said he could get violent with me. I never said he could make me bleed. I never said he could rape me. But still, that's how the scene went down. I don't need to explain myself but if you're wondering WHY I took a shower with him, it was written in the text, I'd been sick with food poisoning for 2 days and needed to sweat it out. My current place of residence has only cold water (third world problems are real!) and it seemed like a miracle to be offered a hot shower. That's not what he was there for though, because as soon as he got a chance, he threw me to the ground and had his way."

Six weeks after the alleged attack Amber has returned to South Africa to assist the police with their investigation. She says the man who raped her was arrested but has been released on bail. The case will continue on March 29.

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

More: 14 Things rape survivors want the men who date them to know

1. Ms. Davis was an amazing scholar

Davis won awards and graduated not only from Juilliard but also from Rhode Island College. At both schools she majored in performing arts. All of this training led to Davis’ winning two Tony awards for her work on the stage.

2. Viola Davis has won awards ranging from Tony awards to SAG awards and garnered dozens of nominations as well:

She has been nominated for Academy Awards for The Help and Doubt. Her SAG awards included wins for The Help and How to Get Away with Murder and nominations for Doubt. She has won two Tony awards (King Hedley II and Fences) as well as a nomination for Seven Guitars. She's garnered 49 other nominations for different awards and won 42 other awards including BAFTA and NAACP awards.

3. Listen closely to the voices in Ocean's Eleven, you might be surprised

Did you know that Viola Davis gives the voice to the parole board interrogator who questions Danny Ocean?

4. Davis played in only one scene in the movie Doubt, which resulted in several award nominations

Talk about a stellar performance!

5. She's a mother

Davis has two stepsons and a daughter, who was adopted at one-month old.

6. Davis grew up in poverty with five siblings

She used acting as a way to escape from her home conditions.

7. She had a small start

Davis received her SAG card for a small, one-day role where she handed Timothy Hutton a vial of blood. Viola played a nurse in the movie The Substance of Fire where she worked with Hutton and Sarah Jessica Parker.

8. Davis improvises some of her own scenes

That famous scene where she pulls the wig off her head in How to Get Away with Murder? That was all Davis’ idea.

9. In The Help, Davis portrayed Aibileen, a maid and child-care provider

In her home life growing up, Davis watched her mother be a maid and civil rights activist. What a great background to give to her role?

10. Annalise is not Davis’ first foray into the bad girl involved in law role

Davis portrayed serial killer Terry Randolph on the show Law and Order: Criminal Intent. It appears to be one of her favorite roles as she was able to portray the character to her own desires.

More: Farrah Abraham allegedly had violent breakdown before quitting Teen Mom

Abraham has a webcam company, and she took to Instagram to inform fans of how "proud" she was of herself for having a "fun, safe and profitable webcam company!"

While the majority of the comments on the post have blasted her for being a "horrible person," "a bitch," and "trash," there are plenty of critics who have taken aim at Abraham's choice of business, too.

Comments on the post include one from kamrynnsmommy, who wrote, "I'm sure her daughter will grow up and see all that her mother has done and will be real proud of her being half naked most of the time, doing porn and being a bitch the rest of the time. I would be real proud of myself if I were her."

More: Farrah Abraham and her daughter get physical on Teen Mom (VIDEO)

Roxyazul22 blasted Abraham for promoting her webcam site while at the same time posting photos of her daughter on Instagram.

"And don't know body want to meet your ass at these events maybe to slap u across the face @farrah__abraham," jnique84 shared.

Roxyazul22 wrote, "How in thee [sic] f*** can you have pictures of your daughter on the same page that you are advertising your TRASHY PORN ON!!?? YOU ARE SICK IN THE HEAD!! YOU NEED HELP!! @farrah__abraham."

While wdmystic2269 attacked Abraham for her choice of career.

More: Farrah Abraham's physical assault caught on camera (VIDEO)

They wrote, "Ok omg this is a new low.. Can you now say 'I can do this cause I'm a mommy' ugh your [sic] a porn star and should be off of teen mom.. Because you are no longer a teen mother you are a full blown PIMP.. pimping out girls on a sex website.. I hope MTV takes you off."

Do you agree with her critics? Should Farrah Abraham promote her site on the same page where she shares pictures of her daughter? Is the backlash deserved?

Apparently not.

A source revealed to E! News that "there is no planned intervention" for Rob by Kris Jenner, despite conflicting reports. The source added, "Rob lives at his own place. He has for a while. And yes he is basically a shut-in, but that's now new. Has been for a long time, that is not news. He doesn't like being seen in public and limits his social life as such."

Many fans have also wondered what Rob's relationship is like with the rest of the Kardashian-Jenner family now that he has become somewhat of a recluse.

More: Kris Jenner reveals the surprising truth about where Rob was on Thanksgiving

"He for sure talks to Kris. And Kendall and Kylie Jenner have no beef. Not sure about others, but they all, I believe, have showed social media love for quite some time," the source said.

Late last month, Rob was rushed to the hospital, and it was later revealed that he was diabetic, but he is already home and doing well, the source revealed.

"He's home already. He went for a little and is fine now. It was a wake-up call," a source told E! News shortly after the scare, adding that his "blood sugar levels were very high, and doctors told him that he needs to lose weight, exercise and dramatically change his diet, or it will get worse."

More: Rob Kardashian shuns those who love him most in wake of health crisis

Rob was recently offered a deal that could help change his life and get him on a healthy path, but ultimately, what Rob decides to do next depends on him, but, at least, he does have his family in his corner urging him on.

The best way to get up on time is to get enough sleep every night so you wake up without an alarm and have a job you love so much that you're excited to bounce out of bed every day... which, if this is you, congratulations. For the rest of us, there's this great thread on Reddit on creative ways to get yourself moving in the morning. Here are our 11 favorite suggestions:

1. Plan an nap. "I look forward to getting in another hour of sleep on the train to work." Getting up on time isn't so bad if you know you'll get a little extra shut-eye soon!

2. Look at is as ripping the Band-Aid off. "Realizing getting up is the worst part and everything after that is easy. Plus an extra 5-10 minutes isn't going to change anything." Waking up enough to talk to yourself is half the battle.

More: 20 Quotes to get you pumped about life

3. Go big. "My alarm clock was actually designed for deaf people, so it's extremely loud and it has an attachment you put under the mattress that vibrates the bed. So often times when it goes off in the morning, it startles me and my heart is beating so fast that it's impossible to go back to sleep." But does it make you pee the bed?

4. Add some good vibes. "I have a fitness band that vibrates with the alarm so it's a fairly subtle wake up." Bonus: It reminds you to get your workout in!

5. Have a toddler. "How do I make sure I wake up early? Unprotected sex two years ago." Every parent of a small child is applauding right now.

6. Plan a delicious breakfast. "Thinking about what I'm going to eat usually motivates me." Maybe think of a Denver omelet or a bagel. Waking up just for plain oatmeal sounds more exhausting, frankly.

7. The ol' alarm-across-the-room trick. "I put my phone on the other side of my room. That way when the alarm goes off, I need to get up to turn it off. At that point, I might as well get ready for work." It's an oldie, but there's a reason people still do it: It works.

8. Go high tech. "I keep my phone next to me, but I have an alarm that doesn't shut off until I get up and touch my phone to a NFC tag on the opposite wall of my room." Another user said they have an NFC tag in the bathroom that turns on their music when they touch it. (Want to try this yourself? Here are some simple instructions.)

More: Why you should pay closer attention to your dreams

9. Drink a glass of cold water. "I sleep next to a window and it's cold and snowy outside, so I keep my water bottle on the window shelf thing so it's like a mini fridge." Like temperature shock?

10. Make it as easy as possible. "I have coffee ready the night before, and I set out my clothes the night before. I have all my personal items like wallet, keys, badge, leatherman, and cash next to my briefcase." Congratulations, you are the most efficient human I have ever met.

11. Skip the coffee and go straight for the caffeine. "I stash caffeine pills and water next to my bed. I wake up 30 minutes before I am supposed to wake up and take the pill then go back to sleep. After 30 minutes, I am pretty hopped up on caffeine since I am taking it on an empty stomach and want to get out of bed." Maybe not the healthiest wake-up call, but it will definitely help you on your sprint to the bus stop. P.s. Please consult your doctor before trying this.

1. Lone wolf

French police have killed a man brandishing a knife outside a northern Paris police station. The man was wearing what appeared to be a vest of explosive devices and shouting "Allahu Akbar." The explosive vest turned out to be a fake. Today is the one-year anniversary of the Charlie Hebdo murders, which were the first in a series of attacks that have terrified France for the last year. — CNN

2. No justice

The state trooper who arrested Sandra Bland, the black woman taken into custody after failing to signal a lane change who later died in her jail cell, has been fired. The trooper was indicted on a perjury charge and has been on administrative leave since Bland's apparent suicide in July. Last month the grand jury declined to indict anyone else; the family has filed a wrongful death suit against the trooper, who was filmed telling Bland he would "light her up" and slamming her head on the pavement. — PBS

3. Stock shock

China continues to terrify the world financial markets. Stocks plunged on Thursday, and for the second time this week officials halted trading, this time for the rest of the day. Markets elsewhere reacted, and not with a happy dance: Europe's stock market opened down, and the futures market in the U.S. underwent a sharp sell-off yesterday and is expected to be down today. The big question is whether China's troubles are confined to China or are a sign of larger global shakiness that will affect growth worldwide. Until we find out, fasten your seat belt. — The New York Times

More: 31 Things you didn't know you could wash in the dishwasher

4. Time-wasting

House Republicans have again come together to write legislation to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a piece of political theater that certainly will be vetoed by President Obama. The vote, largely along party lines, was 240-181. The bill would also bar any funding for Planned Parenthood. There have been more than 60 votes on the part of House Republicans to repeal Obamacare; none have actually been signed into law. What's the definition of insanity again? — CNN

5. Zip slip

Leslie Mann presented Dakota Johnson, the star of 50 Shades of Gray, with a People's Choice Award for favorite dramatic movie actress last night, and apparently accidentally unzipped her dress while she was at it. Mann quickly re-zipped the top half of the two-piece gown, but Johnson took a moment to feel around back there and joked, "Well, it’s not like nobody here hasn’t already seen my boobs." Johnson should have paddled her. — USA Today

More: Dad claims TSA crossed the line when they patted down his little girl

6. Ruh-roh

Iran accused Saudi Arabia of attacking Iran's embassy in Yemen, a claim that could not be independently verified, though the AP reported that there was no immediate apparent damage to compound. Diplomatic relations between the two countries have been extremely tense since Saudi Arabia executed a prominent Shiite cleric last Saturday; Saudi Arabia ordered all Iranian diplomatic staff out of the country earlier this week. The international community fears worsening sectarian rifts, potentially destabilizing the region. — The Washington Post

More: Ask a Raging Feminist: What songs should be banned from play?

7. The outsiders

What if you threw a protest and nobody came? That's the problem the protesters/militia/domestic terrorists (what to call them varies based on your POV) holed up in a wildlife refuge in Oregon are facing. Harney County Sheriff David Ward, speaking at a community meeting late on Wednesday night, told the armed men to go home, saying, "You don't get to come here from elsewhere and tell us how we're going to live our lives." Which, funnily enough, sounds exactly like what the occupiers are saying to the federal government. — NBC News

During her appearance on The Wendy Williams Show on Wednesday, Milano, 43, found herself right in the middle of a new mother’s most common dilemma. Williams told Milano, who is currently breastfeeding her 16-month-old daughter Elizabella and posts multiple pictures to social media, “I don’t need to see that.” When Milano replied by asking Williams why it was OK to show a provocative picture of Miley Cyrus and not of a breastfeeding mom, Williams explained that breasts are most often seen as sexual. If it was her, Williams said, she would breastfeed in the car:

If you just heard the sound of every breastfeeding mother’s head snapping to attention, it wasn’t your imagination — intentional or not, Williams dropped the biggest breastfeeding bomb that moms are sick of hearing: Why can’t you go in another room, or at the very least, cover up?

More: Doctors claim hospital births are better for babies

And if you’re wondering why we still have breastfeeding campaigns and Breastfeeding Awareness Week that rolls around every August, this is the reason. By now, most people are privy to the fact that “Breast Is Best,” thanks to a long-running government campaign that started back in 1999. But evidenced by Williams’ response with the tired argument that breasts are sexual objects that should be kept private, our nation’s breastfeeding campaigns still have a long way to go.

There’s an even bigger elephant in the room that makes Williams’ comment so explosive. Williams might have said what everyone is thinking, but she isn’t just one unassuming member of the public. Williams is also a fellow mom, who said she tried to breastfeed her now 15-year-old son for a few weeks.

You’d think she would understand.

But in reality, Williams is voicing a common concern that plenty of people have about public breastfeeding, fellow moms included. For the many women who are trying their hardest to overcome the breastfeeding hurdles and make it to even the six-month mark, this lack of support from other mothers comes as a slap in the face. Now we know that it’s not just the non-parents who are feeling uncomfortable when a woman whips out a boob to feed her baby at a restaurant or at the park. Many moms who may have breastfed their own babies are feeling squeamish too.

More: Whoopi Goldberg just can't believe moms breastfeed babies with teeth

Williams may have accidentally started yet another Internet parenting controversy, but we can look at her argument as a blessing in disguise. As the saying goes, the first step is admitting you have a problem. And Williams has highlighted a big problem — even fellow mothers aren’t supporting a new mom’s right to breastfeed wherever she wants.

And if mothers aren’t on the same page, how can we expect the rest of the world to treat these women any different? Breastfeeding judgment that includes moms with young children getting kicked out of public places will only continue until moms start backing each other up.

More: Model breastfeeding in controversial gym ad is a huge win for womankind

This systemic problem among mothers may seem like it’s hard to fix — because, after all, how are you going to force the mothers who have breastfed before to change their minds? But really, the answer is quite easy, and it’s staring us right in the face: The next time a breastfeeding campaign meme comes through your Facebook feed, fight your urge to scroll on by. Instead, consider sharing a photo or a post about breastfeeding awareness with other mothers in your Facebook circle. Even a small act of support like this can mean the world to a mom who is not only struggling to breastfeed but struggling to find a place to do it.

It can be difficult to decorate a whole new room, let alone a baby room — especially when you've never had one before. What pieces of furniture do you need? How do you stock a changing table? What are the eco-friendly options? The questions can go on... and on... and on...

One question you can cross of your list? This year's nursery trends. We've searched high and low to discover some of 2016's favorite new design ideas for the most precious room in your home.

1. Ceramics and pottery

Ceramics have slowly been making their mark as statement pieces in the most beautiful of rooms. Whether they are functional (a pearl-glazed pot for the corner plant) or purely aesthetic (trinket perfume bottles on the shelf), pottery will act like statement jewelry pieces — they help tie the whole room together and look gorgeous while doing so.

Pull ceramics into your nursery with lighting, planters, or use them to hold linens, store toys, liven up bookshelves or hide trash cans.

2. Textured neutrals

Neutrals in baby rooms are here to stay — they're soft, calming and clean. But, in 2016, you'll see today's favorite neutrals entering nurseries via texture, not just wall paint. Natural wood accents are becoming the most popular by far, but you can also incorporate textured neutrals with rugs, baskets, linens, furniture and wallpaper.

More: DIY this adorable tree branch clothing rod for your baby's nursery

3. Pretty pendants

Designers are leaving no stones unturned, and that means jazzing up the ceiling's light fixture, too. Have fun with this. The pendant you choose will be a statement piece (and lighting fixtures are generally not cheap), so pick out something you love. It can be funky, structured, unexpected or just all-around pretty.

4. Pastel colors

This year, you'll see more emphasis on pastel colors, as well as soft vintage palettes. That's colors like dusty rose, light jade, soft pinks and golds. "The prevalence of buff. The color is a perfect nude-pink that makes everything and everyone look beautiful," Ann Haagenson, divisional merchandise manager at Anthropologie, predicts of 2016, according to Vogue.

FYI, Pantone's colors of the year are Rose Quartz and Serenity, while Benjamin Moore is celebrating Simply White.

More: 16 Ways to incorporate Pantone's Colors of the Year into your home

5. Geometry

From wall dots to patterned rugs, geometry is showing up everywhere in nurseries. These sharp and clean lines will help your baby's room from getting too "mushy" — with the focus on pastels, neutrals and soft fabrics, your nursery can become very "cotton candy" too soon, if you will. Adding linens, wallpaper and wall art with geometric influences will keep your baby's room looking fresh, clean and modern.

More: Nursery decorating idea: Playing with polka dots

6. Animals

Gender neutral themes of last year will carry over into 2016 with an emphasis on animal decor — that's prints, art, stencils, pillows and fabrics and rocking "horses." You'll see animals in every shape and size from delicate butterfly mobiles to watercolor fish to zoo animal silhouettes.

7. Forgetting the rules

When expecting a baby, stress can pile on in many forms. So, when the details of your new baby's room become overwhelming, take a step back and breathe. Above all, choosing the decor in your baby's room should be fun. The best way to do this? Choose things you love. Don't worry about the "rules." Baby rooms are quirky and playful anyway, so the more you that you put into the design, the better it will be. And lucky for you, "forgetting the rules" is one of 2016's best trends.

More: Hipster chic nursery designs

The mom wrote to an Australian magazine to tell the story of how she was duped by her soccer-loving husband when it came to picking the perfect name for their baby. It's just a snippet — a tiny sidebar in Take 5 magazine — but it's quickly getting attention for how bizarre it is:

More: The secret I'm tempted to keep from my kids about their conception

How's that for a lesson in doing your due diligence when it comes to picking out baby names? Just because something sounds nice to the ear doesn't necessarily mean it's a perfect name — or that there isn't an embarrassing additional meaning buried in there somewhere. While a lot of stories that circulate about babies supposedly being named for body parts and diseases are pure urban myth, that doesn't mean that if you're weighing a name only on how it sounds you won't end up with a little Lanesra or Looprevil of your own. Especially if you're married to a soccer fan.

So what can you do besides avoid marrying someone who might one day use your child's name as a means to pulling one over on you for a quick laugh? Run the names on your short list through the ringer by subjecting them to a number of tests before you decide once and for all.

More: Your unborn baby can now listen to music through your vagina

1. The backward test

A lot of parents already do this, of course, although clearly some don't. As the Lanas of the world will tell you, it's really important to know what your child's name spells when you write it backward, because if you don't, their peers definitely will.

2. Google it, of course

If you're tempted to pick a really out-there name, Google that bad boy before you go any further. You want to find out if that beautiful moniker you've been ruminating on for days has any other connotations you should know about, including ones you might not want associated with your kid, unsavory associations or definitions in other languages that are less than pleasant.

3. Triple-name your unborn baby out loud

We all know what it means to be triple-named: When you've done something so naughty that someone shouts your first, middle and last name at you by way of admonishment. Do that. A lot. Not only does it give you a lot of practice for when you actually have to do it, but it makes sure that your child's name sounds right and is accidental profanity-free when you're saying it all mushed together.

4. Check the initials

Obviously. Ask any Anna Sarah Smith how important it is to do the initial check.

More: Why I don't mind if you touch my baby bump

Despite the completely out of order criticism this woman is getting from Internet strangers (well, it is Reddit), she seems to have a great sense of humor about something that would rightly piss off a lot of other women. At the very least, it's clear both she and her husband got something they wanted in the baby naming process.

And frankly, with all the questionable, unfortunate or painfully trendy names people have been giving their kids in recent years, little Lanesra will surely fit right in.

Everything we do matters. These little people are watching our every move, and they are going to turn out for better or worse because of it. I love seeing care, compassion and intelligence in my children and knowing that it is there because of me.

But there are also some moments I regret. Like when they take that harsh tone with their siblings that I know they heard from me or when they have the same obsessive pet peeves I do.

Recently, I was reminded of this when we were eating lunch.

I don’t know why hearing other people eating bothers me so much, but when people are talking to me with their mouths full or slurping and smacking their food, I could crawl out of my skin. We usually always have music on during meal times at my house just so that the normal sounds of eating are drowned out.

At this particular lunch, I served the children and sat down at the computer to finish up on some work.

Just a couple minutes later, one of my children was staring at the other ones, telling them to, “Stop smacking,” and “Chew with your mouth closed,” with every bite they took.

I am ashamed to admit that for just a second, I was happy. I wouldn’t have to remind them every single meal if someone else was going to stay on top of it too. I was finally getting through to them.

My happiness faded in the blink of an eye when I got past myself and realized what I was doing to my children — and my poor husband.

They couldn’t even eat without fear of being reprimanded for the involuntary sounds they were making. Yes, chewing loudly and talking with a full mouth are rude, but my obsessiveness had gone beyond mere manners. My family was afraid to make any sounds while eating.

Possibly even worse, my sweet children were picking up on my rude behavior of nitpicking. They had begun to think of it as acceptable — even necessary — to constantly correct another’s actions.

Not to mention that I may have wired it into at least a couple of my children’s brains how absolutely horrendous the sound is to me, and they may now be plagued with it as well.

I let my children know that what I had been doing wasn’t nice, and from now on we were all going to enjoy our meals, and just gave them a gentle reminder to mind their manners. I am working on getting past my problem — because it is my problem — so I don’t ruin my children in the process.

Now, when I hear the normal sounds of eating, I remind myself that I am blessed to have children around the table and that I should be happy they are actually eating the food instead of complaining.

If the smacking gets out of hand, I will remind them to eat politely, but I am really trying hard not to snap and criticize anymore. I should be my children’s support, not their critic.

Have I arrived? No way. I am sure that there will be times in the future that I say something I shouldn’t in regards to their eating. At least I am aware of the effect I was having on my family, so now I can do better.

Do you have any parenting moments that you regret? If you are brave, share them in the comments and we can support each other.

More: 17 Things only pug owners know

In a video posted to the Pretty 52 Facebook page, we see Ethel the pug (best name for a pug ever, BTW) perched on the side of the bath, looking longingly at the bubbles. Trying to be surreptitious, she dips a paw in the water despite her owner repeatedly telling her not to.

Clearly Ethel is a rebellious sort because every time she is told "No" she simply tries to find another way to make it into the water.

More: Pet pug gets starring role in dog-loving owners' wedding (PHOTOS)

It's all great fun until, well, the inevitable happens. What Ethel wants, Ethel gets — and you can probably guess how she finally manages to get into the bath. But you'll want to watch it anyway: 

More: Nutello the pug tries out his favourite fashion trends (PHOTOS)

The result is so funny that you'll be double-tapping your way through Barber's account at any chance you can get.

Take Kendall Jenner's most liked Instagram photo of all time with the heart-styled hair, for example.

Looking at this photo with Jenner lying on the floor in her doily-inspired dress, you might think it's majestic and whimsical.

More: Insta-star breaks her silence on her reasons for quitting social media

But thanks to Barber and her take on the same photo, it's plain to see just how unrealistic some of these beautiful celebrity snaps really are, especially when you see them with real people in them.

"I wanted to try to show how ridiculous it would be for a 'normal' person to recreate some of these photos," Barber told Pulptastic.

"I get a lot of really positive feedback," she adds, "like, 'thanks for making me not feel so shit about myself.'"

We've rounded up some of the most hilarious re-enactments of Barber's, just to remind you that it really isn't even worth comparing yourself to celebs, as they have a whole team behind them in order to take the perfect picture. So, don't feel shit. Here they are:

More: 8 Times celebs rocked '90s fashion trends with modern flair

Aviation experiences are a little different for Barber than they are for Kim Kardashian West:

And heading out to grab a coffee doesn’t look quite so glam:

This is literally what Barber looked like when she woke up:

Because eating salad is hilarious:

And whatever this is:

Barber wins with her fitness selfie:

Spreading some Christmas cheer with tangled decorations:

How not to get out of the pool:

Barber is killing this Kim re-enactment in the kiddy pool:

And because sometimes wine can get you through the day:

What do you think of Celeste Barber's celebrity Instagram re-enactments? Let us know.

More: Hilarious 'parent sex' Facebook post sadly has it all wrong

If you’re anything like me, you have no problem taking the whole of December as a “cheat month” and doing it guilt free. After all, I eat clean all year, hike almost every morning and put in regular time at the gym year-round.

Like many of you, I work full time, volunteer and have a family and household to manage. So between the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas, I take a rest, eat whatever I please, enjoy every bit of it and don’t apologize (to myself or anyone else!). Life is about balance, right?

By the time New Year’s rolls around, I’m super motivated to gather new recipes, make big batches of homemade juices, hike bigger hills and do some kind of fast or cleanse. When I say “cleanse,” I simply mean going back to my normal clean eating, reminding myself I need to drink way more water (oh, how I hate drinking water!) and drinking juices and smoothies to replace meals when I’m on the go.

This power smoothie includes several ingredients that pack a power punch and would be great as a regular meal replacement. You won't believe the health benefits in addition to how beautiful and delicious it is.

Here's a health and nutrition breakdown...

Let's talk about mango. It fights cancer, helps keep cholesterol in check, alkalizes the body, helps with weight loss due to its high fiber content and helps with digestion and eye care. On top of all that, it strengthens your immune system, which is perfect for cold and flu season. And if you put it on your face, it actually pulls toxins out and cleanses the skin, helping those struggling with acne. But natural skin care is another post for another day.

Kale is the latest rage, and for good reason. This superfood is one of my favorites, and I grow it year-round so I can pluck it out of the garden at any time and feast. There are too many health benefits to list, but for now, I'll just say that most experts agree it's probably the most powerful vegetable for your all-around health.

I’m a relative newbie when it comes to green tea, but it’s become a regular part of my diet this past year. A single serving of matcha green tea powder has the nutritional equivalent of 10 cups of regularly brewed green tea. This powerful drink boosts metabolism, burns calories, is rich in fiber, chlorophyll and vitamins and, wonder of all wonders, it’s said to be a great mood enhancer. It’s an antioxidant powerhouse and detoxifies your system naturally along with almost every other health benefit described above. This is some seriously powerful stuff. Not sure where to get it? I got mine here on Amazon.

Milk is a great source of calcium and vitamin D, which are not only important for bone and dental health when growing but also as we age. And we're all at some stage of aging, right?

I could go on and on about pineapple. It has a wealth of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, including potassium, copper, manganese, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C, beta carotene, thiamine, B6 and folate, as well as soluble and insoluble fiber. One of the most incredible facts about pineapple in terms of health is its ability to reduce joint inflammation and muscles, particularly those associated with arthritis. Since one of my knees is broken (permanently), this is a good thing. My stage 4 arthritis could potentially be a major problem if I didn’t manage my health. And if you’re not interested in all the vitamin and mineral mumbo jumbo, let’s just say it’s incredibly tasty and sweet. Yay for pineapple!

So now that you know your ingredients and what they can do for you, let's give it a whirl.

Matcha green tea power smoothie recipe

If using fresh pineapple and mango, I recommend freezing the pieces before blending to make a nice, thick smoothie.

Yields 1 large smoothie

Total time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen pineapple chunks
• 1 cup fresh or frozen mango slices
• 1 cup raw kale (roughly chopped and packed into the measuring cup)
• 1/2 cup milk of choice (try almond, coconut or soy milks for gluten-free, dairy-free versions)
• 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder (I purchased mine here)
• Juice squeezed from 1/4 lemon

Directions:

1. To a blender, add all the ingredients, and blend until smooth.

More smoothie recipes

Piña colada protein shake is the perfect post-workout treat
Kick-start your day with a nutrient-dense smoothie
Orange Creamsicle with cranberry swirl is part smoothie, part dessert

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"I love my girlfriend, and I’m a photographer, so I love to take pictures of my girlfriend, right? Problem is, she hates it when I do: Whenever I raise my camera and point it to her, she finds a way to hide her face," writes Theimer in his post on Bored Panda. He uploaded photos of himself "trying to get a good shot of [his] girlfriend. And failing at it" to the site, and since then the photos have gone viral.

And I certainly hope so. Because the photos of Marion hiding her face put a unique spin on traditional portrait-style photos, making you want to know more about the mysterious woman behind the books/wallets/hair/hands. Take a look. You can also view Theimer's work on his Facebook page and website.

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More: Erin Bates opens up about Season 3 of Bringing Up Bates

During the Season 3 premiere, the show revealed that Zach and Whitney Bates are expecting their second child.

Not only did Up network share the cute video of the happy couple's news, but the two also shared an adorable announcement on their Twitter page. In the photo, soon-to-be big brother Bradley poses in excitement while the couple holds a sign that reads, "Our family is growing by 2 feet and 1 heart."

They also revealed the baby is due in summer 2016.

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"We are so excited tell everyone that Bradley is going to be a BIG BROTHER!!" The couple wrote on Instagram. "There is no way to put into words the joy and excitement that we are feeling about having a new baby. One of the things Zach loved about growing up in a large family was seeing how the kids played with one another.

"He can remember praying for a little brother to be a playmate, so not only are we rejoicing about a new addition, but we are happy that Bradley is going to have a new sibling to play with. We know that God says children are a blessing, and now we are experiencing the truth of it in our own family!"

Zach and Whitney were married in December 2013 with a winter-themed wedding. Just before the announcement of their second pregnancy, Zach posted on Instagram a few weeks ago, wishing his wife a happy two-year anniversary and sharing some beautiful words about their life together.

Zach and Whitney aren't the only members of the Bates family with some exciting happenings in the new season of the show.

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The first episode chronicled Michaella's journey prepping for her wedding, including finding a wedding dress. Gil's dad, Papa Bill, also celebrated his birthday.

Congrats to the growing family!

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The network made the decision to pull the show off the air — leaving countless Duggar fans disappointed and upset — and now TLC's Executive Vice President and General Manager Nancy Daniels is opening up about its decision and the aftermath of it.

"We have had our challenges," Daniels said during the opening remarks at the network's Television Critics Association panel, Us Weekly reports. "As soon as we found out about [Josh Duggar], we did work with the family."

Daniels continued to explain how the network ended up using the family's awful past to try and create something positive — the one-hour special Breaking the Silence, which gave Jill and Jessa an opportunity to speak out about the ordeal they suffered at the hands of their own brother.

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"These are people who had something happening in their lives a long time ago," Daniels said. "We took the show off the air and immediately connected with two well-respected agencies to figure out the appropriate response. And one of those responses was the documentary to put the word out about a situation that doesn't really get talked about."

While some fans may feel TLC made the wrong call by pulling the show, there are many more who think it was the right thing to do. Following the reveal that Josh was addicted to pornography and had been involved in multiple affairs, he made the choice to enter a faith-based rehab where he is currently addressing his issues.

And as for his family?

At least one person whose actions point to forgiveness is his wife, Anna.

Were you upset that 19 Kids and Counting was pulled off the air? Or was it the right thing to do? Let us know your opinion in the comments below.

She revealed that she has learned many lessons that she will take with her as she continues to grow as a designer.

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"Don't waste any time! Always be thinking, producing or creating," Austin-Weiss explained. "You will never know when an opportunity will come knocking."

Austin-Weiss experienced this from the second she joined the show. She revealed that she had previously auditioned for Project Runway: Threads but didn't make it on that competition.

"So when Project Runway Junior began casting, [the show's producers] called me and said that I should audition for Project Runway Junior."

And though she didn't walk away with the top prize, that doesn't mean she didn't have a blast along the way.

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"I loved every second of the experience," she said. "Becoming friends with the cast and the crew was absolutely amazing. I’ve made so many fantastic memories. I will never forget anything about it."

Austin-Weiss added that her favorite part of the show was "meeting and getting to know everyone.

"I’ve become such good friends with the entire cast. I love them all so much," she explained. "The crew was awesome too — they were such fun to be around. The overall experience was so positive. Plus, winning a challenge and getting my own Simplicity pattern was incredible!"

As for who she thinks should win the competition?

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"I vote Zachary. He is so incredibly talented. Everything he makes blows my mind," Austin-Weiss revealed. "His style is so unique. He's the sweetest person ever, too. There was one day where I was really upset about something, and I was crying about it on set. Later that night when we got back to the hotel, he checked up on me to make sure I was doing OK. I will never forget that. He's amazing."

Were you sad to see Austin-Weiss eliminated on Project Runway Junior?

This often results in years of wondering what would have happened if you had tried to work things out and stayed together? Wondering then turns into pining, and then suddenly, that person becomes your Moby Dick. The one that got away.

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After years of ruminating on this past relationship, many couples opt to give it another go, and surprisingly, a lot of them make it for the long haul this time. According to Dr. Jane Greer, New York-based relationship expert and author of What About Me? Stop Selfishness From Ruining Your Relationship, they last about 40 percent of the time. That's a pretty large percentage when you consider how many people give it another go for the wrong reasons.

But what does it mean to get back together for the right reasons? How do you know it's going to work out this time? Relationship experts Dr. Greer and Hunt Ethridge along with a number of happy second time around couples have some great advice on the subject.

1. You have to realize their importance in your life

Getting back together with someone just because you miss them is not nearly strong enough of a reason. Dr. Greer told SheKnows, "There must be an awareness of how much the person means to you and how important they are in your life. You have to realize how attached you are to them, and that you want to continue to share your life and be involved with them. This awareness is crucial because it will motivate you to work harder the second time and be more willing to compromise and respond to each other's needs."

2. Time (and maturity) can change everything

For some couples who got together when they were young, sometimes a chunk of time passing can be enough to wipe the slate clean, so to speak. Jessica, an attorney from California told us, "Currently creeping up on a very wonderful year with a girl I dated 10 years ago in college. So far so great. Pretty much everything is way better when you're not two moron babies in your early 20s..."

3. You need to fix what wasn't working before

The only way a rekindled romance lasts is if both parties address the thing that made them break up in the first place. Hunt Ethridge, an international dating and relationship expert, said, "Whatever it was that wasn't working before needs to be fixed. That can be timing, emotional maturity, distance, an individual failure (cheating, lack of connection, etc.) or just the unfortunate slow death of romance." If the original problem isn't attended to, the new relationship will likely fall apart as quickly as it blossomed.

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4. The rubber band effect

Full disclosure: This is how my fiancé and I got back together. We dated on and off throughout college and for a little bit afterwards. Then we split because he had to go "find himself" in Europe. A year after his return, we saw each other at a wedding, and everything clicked back into place. Eight years later, he popped the question, and now we're getting married in October.

Ethridge calls this "the "rubber band effect" of one person seeking out greener pastures, or not thinking that they are truly meant to be together, and then realizing what they had that they had given up, regretting it and snapping back stronger and more sure than they had before. Many times this can be the wake-up call that truly makes someone sure that this is the person that they want to be with."

5. You can't go back, only forward

According to Ethridge, "If you want to try to rekindle something, you have to start at the beginning again. Many times, couples try to jump back to where they left off, without going back and trying to patch the holes that caused it to fracture." Simply put, you have to want to build off of what you had, not go back and try to recreate the "good" parts of your past relationship without acknowledging the bad.

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Catherine, a New York film editor told us, "My ex and I got back together after two years apart, but it was really just because we were both lonely. Neither of us were really willing to put in the work, we just wanted to be reminded of the good times we had together. The relationship lasted about a month."

6. Communication is key

If you're not willing to talk out the nitty gritty of the breakup, why you did the things you did and what you're going to do differently from now on, you might as well not even bother trying again. Dr. Greer says, "There also must be a level of trust that they'll communicate as openly and honestly as possible moving forward." For many couples, a lack of honesty is a part of what broke them up in the first place, so if that doesn't improve, you can assume the relationship won't either.

1. D-jerk

Maine governor Paul LePage used what some are calling racially charged language to describe drug traffickers in the state. Speaking at a town hall meeting, LePage discussed legislation aimed at combatting drug traffickers, saying, "These are guys with the name D-Money, Smoothie, Shifty. These type of guys. They come from Connecticut and New York, they come up here, they sell their heroin, then they go back home. Incidentally, half the time they impregnate a young, white girl before they leave..." Even members of the GOP, LePage's own party, commented that this is the most offensive thing they've heard from the governor yet. Maybe he's hoping to win a Trumpie. — CNN

2. Common sense

President Obama penned an op-ed in The New York Times discussing not only the executive actions he is taking on gun control as president, but also stating that in his role as a private citizen he won't campaign for, vote for or support in any way a candidate who doesn't champion common-sense gun legislation. The executive actions Obama announced this week are relatively low impact but nonetheless have whipped gun rights supporters into a tizzy. — The New York Times

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3. Extreme reactions

The Feds have arrested two Middle East refugees in the United States on terrorism charges. In California a man is accused of helping a group affiliated with ISIS but not ISIS itself, which he had said he wouldn’t join because it was killing fellow Muslims. The other in Texas is suspected of providing support to extremists. Texas's governor immediately criticized the Obama administration's policies on refugees fleeing Syria. Both men arrested were Palestinians who were born in Iraq. — NBC News

4. The right candidate for women's rights

Planned Parenthood will endorse Hillary Clinton on Sunday, the first time in the organization's 100-year history that it has publicly supported a primary candidate. This comes on the heels of proposed Republican legislation to defund the health care organization. This early endorsement is anticipated to mobilize supporters and free up millions of dollars for her campaign. Clinton has noted that there has never been a more important election for women's health care and reproductive rights, and evidently Planned Parenthood agrees with her. — The Washington Post

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5. Not so brief

One hundred thirteen female attorneys have shared their abortion stories with the Supreme Court in an amicus brief filed in the case Whole Women's Health v. Cole. The brief is intended to illuminate the positive, real-world experiences of women who've had abortions; the case is a challenge to Texas's extreme laws that would close most of the state's abortion clinics. Anthony Kennedy is expected to be the swing vote, and Kennedy has demonstrated in the past both that he is particularly swayed by personal stories and that he believes that women who have had abortions come to regret them. Spoiler: not true. — Slate

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6. Terror lab

Authorities in Belgium said they have discovered a fingerprint, traces of explosives and belts following a raid on an apartment in Brussels in December. They believe the occupants of the apartment are connected to the December attacks in Paris that killed 130 people. The prosecutor said the apartment was probably used as a hideout and a bomb-making lab during the planning stages of the attack. Ten people have been arrested in Belgium for their suspected involvement in the attacks; they are believed to have a connection with Salah Abdeslam, a fugitive and the brother of one of the dead attackers. — BuzzFeed