My favorite thing about making this galette is that I don't have to stress over getting the crust all nice and pretty. That's because this pie looks even better when it's more rustic and imperfect around the edges.

The crust is so flaky and buttery, which of course is the perfect match with the blueberry, lemon and cheese mixture.

Blueberry, lemon and ricotta galette recipe

Serves 5

Prep time: 20 minutes | Inactive time: 2 hours | Cook time: 45 minutes | Total time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients:

For the pastry

• 1-1/4 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 8 tablespoons butter (1 cube), chilled and cut into cubes
• 3 teaspoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 2 tablespoons flour (for rolling dough)

For the galette

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for the filling)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1-1/2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 cups blueberries
• 1/4 cup lemon curd (for the filling)
• 1 egg, beaten (for the egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water (for the egg wash)
• 1/3 cup lemon curd (for garnish)
• 1 cup whipping cream or Cool Whip topping
• Zest from 2 lemons (for garnish)

Directions:

For the pastry

1. To a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, salt and butter.
2. Cut the butter into small pieces with either a pastry cutter, 2 knives or your fingers.
3. Add the lemon juice and ice water. Stir the ingredients.
4. Knead the dough a few times, and transfer it to a piece of plastic wrap.
5. Add another piece of plastic wrap on top of the dough. On top of the plastic wrap, roll the dough a few times with a rolling pin until it's a small, thick circle.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
7. Lay a large piece of parchment paper on the rolling surface. Lay the dough on top of the parchment paper, and roll out the dough into a large circle (about 2 inches larger than the diameter of a pie pan).
8. Transfer the parchment paper and the dough onto a large cookie sheet with sides. Set aside for a moment.

For the galette

1. Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2. To a small bowl, add the ricotta cheese, egg, lemon juice and sugar. Stir together until all the ingredients are incorporated.
3. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture in the middle of the pie dough and out to about 2-1/2 inches from the edges of the pie dough.
4. Top the ricotta mixture with the blueberries and dollops of the lemon curd.
5. Fold in the edges of the pie dough (without any filling on it) toward the middle of the galette to form a "ring" of pastry around the outside edge.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash.
7. Brush the egg wash around the "ring" of pastry.
8. Bake until the crust turns a light golden brown (about 40 – 45 minutes). It's OK if juice from the blueberries seeps out of the crust onto the parchment paper while it's baking.
9. Serve warm topped with small dollops of lemon curd, whipped cream and lemon zest.

More galette recipes

Gluten-free apple pie galette
Fall vegetable galette
Southwest breakfast galette

More: How getting organized made everyday cleaning so much easier

Before you protest that cleaning chemicals are a necessary evil, I’m here to tell you they aren’t. There are better, healthier ways to have a home than smells like sunshine and lemon drops. Mother Nature has been creating the ingredients that get rid of rust, stains, grease and foul odors since time immemorial — and it's likely you already have most of them stocked in your kitchen.

Simple combinations of select acids and bases, with a few drops of essential oils thrown in, make the perfect household cleaning products. Plus, when you make them yourself, you get to decide what they should smell like. Add some essential oils to any of the cleaning product recipes below and, voilà, your house smells like roses — real roses.

1. Sanitize the floor

What you need:

• 1/2 cup Borax
• 2 gallons hot water
• Mop/sponge

Directions:

In a bucket, mix Borax with hot water. Apply with a mop or sponge (rinsing not necessary).

2. Easy homemade spray air freshener

What you need:

• 1 ounce gin
• 6 ounces filtered water
• 20–40 drops of essential oil (peppermint, jasmine or citrus)
• Spray bottle

Directions:

Combine in bottle and spray! Works well in the bathroom or on fabrics, carpets and shoes.

3. Clean grease from kitchen surfaces

What you need:

• Undiluted vinegar
• Non-abrasive scrubber
• Cloth
• Baking soda

Directions:

Pour undiluted vinegar into an empty spray bottle. Apply generously to greased surface, and let sit eight minutes. Wipe clean with non-abrasive scrubber or cloth. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge (non-abrasive) and wipe down surface. Follow with clean, damp cloth to remove powder residue.

4. All-purpose cleaner

What you need:

• 2 cups water
• 1 cup hydrogen peroxide
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Directions:

Mix ingredients in a spray bottle, adjusting with water to suit your needs. Can be used on anything, such as wiping down countertops, de-streaking mirrors and sanitizing outdoor areas.

More: Take a spring cleaning shortcut with these hacks

5. Clean the tub

What you need:

• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil-based liquid soap
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons vinegar

Directions:

Combine baking soda and vegetable oil-based liquid soap in a jar or spray bottle. Add water and vinegar and shake to combine.

6. Clean tough stains out of the tub

What you need:

• 1–2 large grapefruits, cut in half
• 1/4 cup kosher salt

Directions:

Halve your grapefruit and sprinkle liberally with salt. Wet bathtub and sprinkle rest of salt around tub. Scrub with salted grapefruit, making sure to slightly “juice” the citrus over each fixture while lifting every few seconds to pick up fresh salt from around the tub. Use the rind on stubborn areas. Rinse — and welcome your newly cleaned, grapefruity bathtub.

7. Clean the toilet

What you need:

• 1/4 cup Borax or baking soda
• 1 cup vinegar

Directions:

Mix Borax or baking soda with vinegar and pour into toilet. Let sit 15 minutes. Scrub, then flush.

8. Laundry softener that smells nice

What you need:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup Borax
• 1 cup vinegar
• 20 drops lemon or orange citrus oil

Directions:

Mix baking soda, Borax, vinegar and citrus oil. Add to bottle of laundry detergent and use as normal.  (You can also put lavender water in a spray bottle and give your load a quick spritz before throwing it in the washer.) 

9. Polish wood floors

What you need:

• 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon grapeseed or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon water
• Cloth

Directions:

Juice lemon and pour into a small jar. Add oil and water. Seal the jar and shake until emulsified. Dip cloth in, and shine your wood!

10. Remove mold or mildew

What you need:

• 1/2 cup Borax
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• Brush or sponge

Directions: 

Mix together Borax and vinegar to make a paste. Use brush or sponge to scrub at mold. Rinse with water. For tough mold, let sit for an hour before rinsing.

More: 6 Ways to be a good person when you shop back-to-school

More: Statue of Queen Victoria defaced to make a 'feminist statement'

Artist Eliska Podzimkova is an avid traveller and likes to put her own unique stamp on the photographs she takes during her travels, by creating alluring illustrations that include a moustache on the Statue of Liberty and duck legs on former President of the United States' Abraham Lincoln's memorial statue.

This image makes the rooftops of the city of Prague in the Czech Republic so much more colourful.

Shining a spotlight on the city from Prague's astronomical clock.

More: Mum launches Kickstarter campaign inspired by artistic collab with her kids

London Bridge gets a surprising visit... from a giant.

Want to fish in snowy New York, anyone?

We don't know where this is, but we love it!

Podzimkova adds some love to One World Trade Center.

Whoops, it looks as though the Statue of Liberty forgot to shave.

Speaking to Evening Standard about her work, Podzimkova said, "As a student I always had a problem to think of something what to draw."

"One time my dad gave me a graphic tablet and I ended up having the same issue. I didn't know what to draw so I just took a photo and started drawing on it. It became something new, fresh and special to me."

More: Artist at London art fair offering free sketches of people's private bits

Her fresh take on classic things is probably one of the reasons why she already has over 55,500 followers on Instagram.

And while some of us struggle to come up with creative ideas on a daily basis, they just seem to come to Podzimkova.

"Sometimes I just go outside for a walk with my camera and take a random pictures," she told the publication. "Then I come home and go through it and hopefully something comes up in my mind."

Her work is beautiful and different... perhaps a reminder that alternate takes on something classic can be just as charming.

Do you like what Podzimkova is doing with these classic landmarks? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

More: I tried a meditation challenge for 30 days, and this is what happened

Meditation has long been a spiritual practice used in the Eastern Hemisphere. While you may not practice Buddhism, the practice of meditation has profound capabilities for centering you so you can deal with Western-world stress. The practice of finding a quiet place to center yourself and shut off the mind can invoke a change of thinking. It may be immediate, but even if it's not, stay with the practice. It takes just a few moments a day and can dramatically change your frame of mind and relax the body.

Mantra meditation

Mantra meditation is best known for its calming abilities. The process involves repeating a calm word of your choice — or a mantra. Mantras are designed to create a vibration in your voice that’s deeply soothing. The repetition of your mantra is relaxing because you're able to shut out all other thoughts. This quiets the mind and gives you an opportunity to just sit in the moment.

More: 5 Benefits of a 3-minute meditation

Mindful meditation

Mindful meditation has been recommended by the Mayo Clinic to still the mind, a key aspect to reducing anxiety. At the center of the practice is the goal that you should just "be." Exist in the peace of the moment and don't think backward or forward in time. Breathing techniques assist you in staying in the current moment. Deep breaths also help cleanse the body and relax the mind. There are no restrictions to doing this exercise, and variations are limitless. The lotus pose is the general pose for mindful meditation, but feel free to lie down, walk or even garden. Mindful meditation is simply a matter of being aware in your body and living in the moment.

Relaxation of the muscles

This practice focuses on your muscles by first tensing and then relaxing them. You will notice immediately how tense your body was and how calm it has become. Relaxing your body in this way will automatically calm the mind, leaving you feeling eased in body, mind and spirit. Focus on tensing and relaxing a few times. Breathe in as you tighten all of your muscles, breathe out when you let that tension go. You can tense body parts one by one to get the full effect. If you only have a moment, tense the whole body and release. This method of meditative practice is often recommended as a way to get to sleep quickly.

More: 5 Simple tips for becoming a meditation teacher

More: Alison Sweeney: My tips for creating a healthy kitchen in 2016

I spent months planning, reading recipes and stocking my freezer with Whole30-approved choices. I was so excited! When I did all my research, everything seemed so positive—this will change your life, everyone said. Well, I felt I needed to share my negative experience to help people contemplating Whole30 see both sides of the program.

At first I felt great. The newness of the plan was keeping everything interesting. I still craved sugar, so I was turning to fruit and Larabars — lots of Larabars, which can be healthy choices, but my diet was suddenly mainly fruit. Without hummus, my carrots where just sitting in the fridge drying out. Without grains, the hungry in my stomach kept growing, as did my hanger.

My once fairly well rounded diet seemed to be getting more and more lopsided. Without a nice piece of toast to help make breakfast filling, I was eating more bacon and sausages. It just didn't seem like I was being healthier.

More: Eating less meat could help your wallet and the planet

I'm sure the program does work for some people. I definitely believe whatever helps an individual eat healthier is a good thing. So many Whole30 recipes use mayonnaise, and even if you're making it yourself, there is nothing you can say to make me feel that is part of a healthy recipe. Grains, legumes and red wine are all part of a Mediterranean diet, which is often viewed as one of the healthiest lifestyle choices. On Whole30, my choices were so limited, and some of the food I was limiting had great nutritional value.

There's no need to feel guilty enjoying some white beans in my tuna salad to help fill me up longer and give some antioxidants to my day .

For me, any type of restrictive diet is not a good choice. As someone who struggled with eating disorders as a teen, whenever I'm faced with a set of food rules, I find myself obsessing over them. I was constantly thinking about food and my diet, which definitely helps lead to my constant hunger.

Instead of having a small bit of chocolate when I was craving it, I would just spend all my time thinking about it. Before you knew it, I would be sitting on the kitchen floor eating frosting out of the container. Some may call quitting Whole30 after just 19 days a lack of self-control, but for me it was what I needed to do in order to maintain my healthy lifestyle.

I don't think food should make you feel guilty. I firmly believe in everything in moderation. If I'm in the mood for fried chicken, I'll make myself some and pair it with a nice salad. As long as I am cooking all my food, I have complete control over what goes in my body — I don't need a program to tell me what I should and shouldn't eat. I know my body, I know how it feels, and from now on I'll be making all the decisions of what goes into it, not letting the raving opinions of strangers on the Internet dictate what's good for me.

More: 4 Diet fads to avoid to help you lose weight

Mardi Gras is one of my favorite holidays. I get to eat all the delicious food I want with zero regret. This year I decided I would take a more traditional route but add a little twist. These two simple dishes are perfect for your Mardi Gras party and sure to please your whole family.

First up, we have a baked mini muffuletta sandwich filled with ham, salami, provolone cheese and a special olive salad and Parmesan cheese dip.

Mini muffuletta sandwiches recipe

Yields 8

Ingredients:

• 8 small buns
• 15 ounces olive salad
• 8 thin slices deli ham
• 8 thin slices hard salami
• 8 thin slices provolone cheese
• Olive salad dip (recipe follows)

Directions:

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Lay out the bottoms and tops of the buns. Spread an equal amount of olive salad onto each half.
3. Add ham, salami and provolone cheese to the bottom half of each bun. Wrap each sandwich in foil.
4. Add the sandwiches to the oven, and bake for about 15 minutes, until warmed and the cheese has melted.
5. Serve warm with olive salad dip.

Olive salad dip recipe

Yields 1/2 cup

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup olive salad
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
• 2 – 3 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

1. To a bowl, add all the ingredients, and stir together. If the sauce is too thick, add more olive oil.

Next up, we have a delicious muffuletta dip. This gives you all the flavor of the muffuletta sandwich but in a fun dip form. I served it with a delicious Cajun cheese bread, but I think chips would make an equally amazing dipper.

Muffuletta dip recipe

Adapted from MyRecipes

Yields 4 cups

Ingredients:

• 1 cup olive salad, drained
• 1 cup diced hard salami
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped pepperoncini
• 2 ounces sliced black olives
• 2 ounces sliced green olives
• 4 ounces provolone cheese, chopped
• 1/3 cup chopped roasted red pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Cajun cheese toast (recipe follows)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients.
2. Cover, and let sit refrigerated for a minimum of 4 hours. Serve cold with Cajun cheese toast.

Cajun cheese toast recipe

Yields 20 slices

Ingredients:

• 20 thin slices crusty bread, cut into 2 x 2-inch squares
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Cajun seasoning, to taste
• 30 small slices provolone cheese

Directions:

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lay out the bread on the baking sheet, and brush the tops of the bread with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle each slice of bread with Cajun seasoning, and top with cheese.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

More Mardi Gras recipes

3 Mardi Gras cocktails
Mardi Gras gumbo
3 Fun Mardi Gras appetizers

Updated by Bethany Ramos on 2/5/2016

More: 5 Golden Globes skits that tried so hard to be funny but failed miserably (VIDEO)

After the show, we see recaps on television telling us why so-and-so’s dress was all wrong, even if we thought it was amazing. Or someone gets caught on camera scratching an itch — or any number of other faux pas — and the whole world talks about it for an entire week. It’s a little intimidating.

My first red-carpet event took place this past weekend, at the SAG Awards in Los Angeles. I, like yourself, had many predispositions about how the nominees and their companions might appear and behave throughout the event. I'm happy to report, though, that my experience could not have been further from my worries.

I’m going to bust a few myths and dish the truth about celebs on the red carpet.

1. Stars look just like we do

Right down to their makeup. Whatever filter television networks and film crews use when shooting, I need to get one. How they manage to sprinkle fairy dust just so around these stars as they’re being filmed is truly a feat. The truth, however, is they look just like our neighbors, our friends and even our family members. They may even have a few hairs out of place, an eyelash on a cheek or a crooked tie.

To break the age-old fallacy about the camera adding 10 pounds, I can tell you with certainty it does not. Every honoree and presenter I saw looked precisely the same size as their onscreen alter egos. Thanks to the magic of high definition, what you see is what you get.

2. They’re genuine

Contrary to what one might expect red-carpet behavior to be, stars did not turn their backs to others in favor of a momentary limelight, to participate in E! interviews or to make sure their "good sides" were facing the cameras. At the mere shout of a first name, many headed directly to admirers to chat, shake hands, sign autographs and take pictures. For the most part, all were very warm and receptive to the attention and affection they received.

3. Even they can be starstruck on the red carpet

Attendees were just as excited as fans to see the nominees. It wasn't above or beneath entertainment journalists to whip out their own phone to snap pics of a nominee alongside professional cameras. (Oh, the cameras! Have I mentioned the number of cameras at this event?) Nor was it taboo for any of them to take selfies, "us-ies" or group shots — something I did not expect to see. It was a lot closer to real life than I imagined.

More: How to throw an awesome awards-show viewing party

4. They show their softer sides

One thing I loved most about the SAGs red carpet was the affection shown — the belly laughs, the smiles, the physical connectedness — among nominees, their friends and their families. They gave real hugs, unconcerned about whether their outfits would wrinkle or their makeup would smudge. Some gave strong pats on shoulders to their friends. Some even high-fived in approval of others' fashion choices.

5. They make mistakes

Stars were confused, unsure of correct entrances and exits and lost people with whom they'd arrived. Some blew past interviewers entirely to get inside in the interest of saving time. They craned their necks to see over those in front of them, they tripped on the bottoms of their dresses — just like we do — and tried to right themselves when their shoes took them off balance. Their minds (and feet) didn’t seem to operate any differently than ours.

As they say, we all put on our pants one leg at a time.

6. They’re kind

Not once did I see a dismissive wave, a dirty look or a celeb turn his back on someone beckoning his attention. If a reporter introduced himself and asked for a few moments’ time, the stars were more than obliging. As I mentioned, many headed straight over to the bleacher seats to greet fans, family and friends. There was no sneering, cattiness or pettiness between the nominees, as some sources might have us believe.

7. They look natural

I was relieved to see that. That’s not to say no one appears to have had work done, because that would be clearly untrue. But close up — and I mean really close up — I had the pleasure of seeing many wrinkles, crow’s feet, jiggly thighs and untoned triceps. And for that, I couldn’t be happier. Let’s face it: Some standards set by the film and TV industry are impossible to achieve. The physical diversity of the nominees was a refreshing reflection of real life.

8. They’re down to earth

There were no peacocks at this affair. No one strutted along the red carpet, sashayed, or otherwise worked it, even when they were wearing the most stunning dresses. They behaved like any one of us would, smiling, hunching, leaning, shifting and sporting their very own trademark looks. This affair was neither a fashion show nor a beauty pageant. Every honoree I saw shined with his or her own unique brand of beauty.

9. They’re Grateful

Many times throughout the afternoon, I heard nominees thanking fans, family and friends for coming out to support them. The nominees were as humble on camera as off. And the winners were as gracious during their acceptance speeches as they were before they entered L.A.'s Shrine Auditorium.

So, there you have it, folks. Stars are just like us — awkward, friendly, disheveled, humble, unique, kind and funny. But maybe just a little more famous.

More: Why I think Bruno Mars should sweep the Grammys

Get the right support

Before you take a single step, let’s talk about those pretty shoes on your feet. Do they fit properly? Are they comfortable? If you’re slipping and sliding around or feeling stabbing pains on the balls of your feet from the get-go, your chances of walking effortlessly are pretty slim. But with the help of a few sneaky heel-helpers, you’ll get there. Head to a department store or shoe shop, and ask for the support you need:

• Toe gels — these cushion the ball of the foot, so use them if you're feeling pain when your foot strikes the ground.
• Weight shifters — these shift weight off the ball of the foot and onto the heel, which is useful when wearing stilettos or heels that don't offer much stability.
• Heel pads — pop these into too-big shoes to prevent feet from moving around.
• Arch supporters — for those women with naturally low arches, these supportive pads fill in the "gap" between the foot and shoe and relieve pressure from the ball of the foot.
• Blister pads — keep these handy to prevent and heal blisters usually caused by rubbing on the back of the foot, which can happen with new or stiff shoes.

On the flip side, if your heels are too small, get them stretched out by a local cobbler. It will be money well spent, promise!

More: 13 Ways to make high heels more comfortable

Perfect your posture

Now that your shoes are ready, it’s time to work on looking elegant — and that comes down to posture. Plus, heels pitch your weight forward, so you need to balance that with some clever body movements. When you’re walking in heels, you want to stand tall, strong and confident. To do that, roll your shoulders back and down, and make sure your head is in line with your spine. Gently engage your abdominals (like you would in a Pilates class) to protect your lower back, and bend your knees ever so slightly. Lastly, place your heels directly behind your toes.

Find a rhythm

Walking in heels is a whole new ball game. When you’re wearing flats, you put your whole foot down at once — but this is the quickest way to give away your amateur status in heels! When you’re wearing shoes with a bit of height, put your heel down first, followed by your toe. Place one foot in front of the other, and try to get into a rhythm: heel, toe, heel, toe. This is called the “heel to toe” method (crazy, we know), and it’s the most natural way to walk in heels.

If you're donning a pair of skyscrapers? Take extra care, and spread your toes in the shoe you’re putting down on the floor. This will help to distribute your weight evenly and prevent any teetering.

Lean back a little

When wearing heels, you may find yourself leaning forward. This usually means you’re trying to walk faster than your heels will allow. To counteract this, lean back a little. If you’re standing still, shift weight from one foot to the other to alleviate pressure. Model-of-the-moment Kendall Jenner relies on this trick, telling Elle.com, “I switch from one foot to another a lot, like this. [She crosses one foot behind the other in her now-signature pose.] You have to keep moving your feet!”

More: 5 Yoga poses to improve your balance

Take small steps

While we’re on the subject of striding, do so with small steps. Wearing heels makes your stride a little shorter, so you’ll inevitably need to take more steps to go the same distance. Think small and dainty, not baby steps — we are busy women with places to go and things to do! Try not to rush, though. Between the extra height and small steps, walking quickly in heels looks a little awkward.

Toned legs make wearing heels much easier, so spend a little time stretching and working on your legs, particularly your calves.

Walk a straight line

Finally, don’t look down at your heels while you walk. Instead, find your end point (a coffee cart, colleague’s desk, shop), and visualise an invisible, straight line leading there. Then, walk it. One foot should come down directly in front of the other, with your toes pointing straight ahead. With a little bit of practice, it’ll become second nature.

More: How to keep high heels from cramping your (running) style

More: 3 Delicious ways to enjoy gooey s'mores on National S'mores Day

Watch how to make it below.

More: How to throw an awesome awards-show viewing party

Jalapeño Popper Dip Recipe

Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 ounce) jar or can sliced jalapeño peppers (use two if you like it extra spicy)
• 16 ounces cream cheese, at room temp
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 stick butter
• 1/2 cup Parmesan

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Drain the juice from the jalapeños (some juice is fine).
3. Mix together cream cheese, mayo, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese and jalapeños in a bowl.
4. Pour into a baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese and melted butter.
6. Spread over the wet mixture.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes, until the dip is golden brown on top and bubbling on the sides.
8. Serve with veggies or pita chips.

More: The best hack for serving condiments at a BBQ

For more delicious recipes, follow Limor on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter

This king cake recipe is made with applesauce and oil instead of butter and is filled with light cream cheese, so this moist, flavorful cake only tastes indulgent! Plus, the addition of flaky coconut in the filling gives this cake an almost tropical flavor. And let's be serious — the fewer calories you eat means the more calories you can drink, which is what Mardi Gras is all about anyway! (That and faltering morals, of course.)

Lighter king cake recipe

Recipe adapted from Baking Bites

Serves 8

Ingredients: 

For the cake

• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 1 cup whole-wheat flour, divided
• 1/2 cup sugar (brown sugar can be used too)
• 2-1/2 teaspoons dry active yeast
• 1/2 cup skim milk (warmed to 110 – 120 degrees F)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the filling

• 8 ounces light cream cheese
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 tablespoons flaked coconut

For the icing

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• Green, purple and yellow sprinkles

Directions:

1. Grease a 6-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together 3/4 cup of the flours, sugar, yeast and salt. Add in the warm milk, applesauce and oil. Using a handheld mixer, beat in the eggs 1 at a time. Be sure each egg has been fully incorporated before you add the next one in. Stir in the vanilla.
3. Sift in the rest of the flours, and mix using the mixer for about 2 minutes. Cover with plastic, and let sit for at least 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, make the filling by beating together the cream cheese, coconut, vanilla and sugar until creamy.
5. Once the batter has set, pour 1/2 into the Bundt pan. Using a tablespoon, scoop the filling onto the top of the batter until the filling is used up. Pour the rest of the batter over the filling, and smooth it out with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise for at least 1-1/2 hours.
6. Once the batter has risen to double its size, heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the cake for at least 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on a wire cooling rack for at least 30 minutes.
7. While the cake cools, make the icing by mixing together the sugar and water. When the cake is completely cooled, frost by liberally drizzling the icing all over the cake to cover it. Sprinkle 1/3 of the cake in yellow sprinkles, 1/3 in purple sprinkles and the remaining 1/3 in green sprinkles. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

More Mardi Gras recipes

Mardi Gras cocktail recipes
Mardi Gras recipes for Fat Tuesday
Mardi Gras menu and mouthwatering recipes

Updated by Bethany Ramos on 2/5/2016

We've got the 3D-makeup printer, Mink, that lets people print makeup based off photos. And then there's Adorn, the device that claims it will print your perfect foundation (though that's yet to be proven).

More: 11 Glow-in-the-dark makeup looks that will totally mesmerize you

The world has not yet created a device that actually helps us apply makeup perfectly, but it's not for lack of trying. Case in point: Simone Giertz — a self-described "non-engineer" — creates fun robots and then posts demonstration videos on her YouTube channel. Her latest is a lipstick robot that has so much potential, but doesn't quite do the job.

That is, unless you're going for the "outside the lines" look.

It's pretty obvious that she created this robot as a joke, but it's not the first time she's tried to program a machine to do daily beauty maintenance tasks. Last year, she created a helmet designed to brush teeth — and very aggressively, I might add.

More: Amazing app finds the perfect lipstick color based on photo

"... I like building things," she told Vice of why she made the toothbrush helmet. "I like telling people about things I build. I like making videos. I like making tools that people can use to be creative."

"Creative" is definitely the way to describe the lipstick robot, but she's on the right path. I don't think makeup robots are really that far off... and the person who does create one that can perfectly contour will undoubtedly be a billionaire within a few days.

More: The best makeup for your face — finding the best look for your features

The creators behind one new Super Bowl commercial hope their spot starts a conversation, but not for its jokes.

More: Domestic violence victim shares injuries from vicious attack on Facebook

The anti-domestic violence organization, No More, shows a simple text conversation between girlfriends. One wants her friend to come to her party, but the other won't go because her boyfriend "is in one of his moods."

The ad implies that the boyfriend, Jake, is either verbally or physically abusive and wants to keep her away from her friends. She's asked if she's OK, but the response never comes.

Unfortunately, this story is way more common than many of us would like to believe. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimates that every minute, 20 people are victims of domestic violence.

More: Comic uses Instagram to show (and tell) her story of domestic abuse

That's 20 too many.

No More's hope is that, by using such a large platform, they can help people recognize the signs, especially younger people.

"This PSA captures how most young people — and many others — use texting to communicate, and how sometimes saying a little says a lot," Virginia Witt, director of No More, said in a statement.

"Learning more can empower people to have potentially life-saving conversations and reach out for help. We hope this will be one more step toward the culture change we are seeking around domestic violence and sexual assault."

More: Stigma facing male domestic abuse victims has to stop

Sephora just announced the launch of a seven-piece makeup collection inspired by Minnie Mouse, and it's as adorable as you'd imagine.

More: The best makeup for your face — finding the best look for your features

The Disney Minnie by Sephora Collection will hit stores in April and is comprised of pieces that incorporate plenty of red, black-and-white polka dots and, of course, mouse ears.

The main pieces in the collection are the Black & White Felt Liner Duo ($22), which contains two liquid eyeliners in black and white; Minnie’s Inner Glow Luminizer Blush ($22), a six-piece brush set in black and gold; a lip-stain set; an eye shadow set that contains 20 shades; and Minnie’s Perfect Red Lipstick ($15), a red shade that has Minnie's silhouette stamped on the lipstick tip.

More: Create glam party makeup using 4 products in 5 minutes

There's also a gold compact mirror in the shape of Minnie's ears and famous bow (what else?).

Why Minnie? "Minnie Mouse has long served as a fashion muse and appeared in runway shows for designers around the globe," Soo Koo, vice president of product development, Disney Consumer Products, told Women's Wear Daily. "Her classic polka dot look has been continually reimagined by the fashion industry through the decades and continues to drive trends today."

The official release date is not entirely clear, but you better have your credit cards ready if you're into all things Disney — because if Kylie Jenner has taught us anything, limited-edition makeup collections sell out in one second... literally.

More: Frozen snow globe nail design will melt you with cuteness

That way your guests will be able to pile up their sliders as high as they want to. (Plus cleanup is a breeze!)

These are the best when served warm right out of the slow cooker and on a soft slider bun. Each bite is spicy and saucy goodness, and napkins may be required.

Slow cooker chipotle pulled pork sliders recipe

Serves 5

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 6 hours 10 minutes | Total time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients:

For the pork

• 4 pounds pork shoulder blade Boston butt roast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the chipotle sauce

Directions:

For the pork

1. Sprinkle the pork on all sides with salt and pepper.
2. To a slow cooker, add the pork (fat side up).
3. Turn the slow cooker on to the 6-hour setting, and cover with the lid.
4. Carefully remove the meat from the slow cooker and onto a large plate. Pour the drippings from the slow cooker in a large bowl, and set aside for use in making the sauce. Use 2 forks to pull apart the pork. Discard excess fat.
5. Transfer the pulled pork back into the slow cooker, cover with the lid, and let it sit while making the chipotle sauce.
6. Add the chipotle sauce to the pulled pork, and mix together.
7. Serve on slider rolls while hot.

For the chipotle sauce

1. Just before serving, heat a medium-size pan on medium heat, and add the drippings from the slow cooker, water, tomato sauce, oregano, chipotle chili powder, vinegar and sugar. Stir.
2. Let cook until the mixture warms up (about 7 minutes).
3. To a small bowl, add the cornstarch and water. Stir until the mixture starts to thicken.
4. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, and continuously stir until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve with the pulled pork.

More slider recipes

Pulled pork and Brie grilled cheese sliders
Chicken-fried steak sliders
Slow cooker Buffalo pulled pork sliders

More: 5 relationship habits of the happiest couples on the planet

The first day we befriended a sweet German guy who was traveling alone. When we got a chance to speak, he talked about his career as a financial planner and what he liked about it. He was so genuine, passionate and clear. I found everything he said refreshing, different from what I was used to hearing from men my age. I tried not to think about him in a romantic way because he was from Germany — I was from America, and this was a work trip.

Four days later, we were disembarking and exchanging email addresses. After we all said goodbye, I felt a pang in my heart, suddenly saddened at the idea that maybe we would never meet again.

As luck would have it, we did see each other again — at the airport! That’s when my colleagues started forecasting our eventual marriage. I was in total denial. A few days later, our whole group met for a dinner in Rio de Janeiro. We were never alone, but he and I got a chance to talk again. He told me his decision to travel was fueled by his interest in getting to know and understand all different kinds of people. I was stunned. It was like he took the words right out of my mouth.

I was inspired, too, because at that time I only spoke English. He already spoke German, English and some Portuguese. He was really making good on his commitment to learn more languages.

We parted ways after Rio, but neither of us wasted much time. We sent messages expressing our sincere interest in trying to meet again. We kept in touch through iMessage and Facebook Messenger throughout the rest of our respective trips, and once he was back in Germany and I in the States, we had our first Skype date. I even used to brush my teeth and put on lipstick before our Skypes, like it was a real date.

Luckily, I was in graduate school so I had pretty flexible hours. The time difference between the East Coast and Germany is six hours. Often I was able to come home for a late lunch break around 3 or 4 to Skype and then go back to my office to work in the evening. He would get up early, work all day and Skype with me from 10 to midnight!

I was careful in the beginning because I wanted to be sure everything was genuine. I didn't want to just get caught up in the excitement of it all, but our conversations only got more interesting.

I also made my real life a priority. I didn’t want to miss out on living while I fostered a long-distance relationship. So we both made efforts to become engaged in each other's existences, talking about our work, our friends and family and sending lots of photos. He was better than I was at this in the beginning, always including me in everything.

After saying goodbye nine weeks earlier, we met at the airport in Philadelphia and shared our first kiss. We had a reunion with all the Brazil colleagues, and I showed him some of my favorite spots on the East Coast. A few months later, I visited Germany. That summer he came to meet my family. We were able to fly back and forth a few more times, and the following Christmas we got engaged.

More: 12 Things successful couples do to make their relationships last

We talked very early on about whether or not living in Germany was an option. I knew it would be hard, but I knew it was a great opportunity to make good on that conversation we'd had in Rio about learning more languages and understanding more people. We had our wedding in the States, and a few weeks later we started our life in Germany.

I spent the first six months in language school — four hours a day, five days a week. I was in a class with people from 20 countries. It was fascinating and hard but very rewarding. The variety of languages and learning styles no doubt made it difficult for the instructor, but we did it.

To be honest, taking time away from my career to focus on immigrating and building a life with someone else has been challenging, but I have never wanted to quit or regretted the decision. Missing the company and support of friends and family has been tough but has made me appreciate my new friendships even more. There are certainly more challenges to come. Forming a life together is different from talking about our dreams on Skype. It has shown me that everything has its own time. I had been told lots of times that there is someone for everyone, but I really didn't think so. By the time I was 36, I was happy being independent.

Our first evening on the Amazon, we stood on the roof of the boat and stared in awe at a sky full of more stars than I could have ever imagined existed. Really, I grew up in cities. I knew about the Big Dipper and the Little Dipper and the North Star and that was about it. The first miracle was realizing there really are countless stars — the universe really is infinite. Then a few stars fell. As unbelievable as it is, we both saw falling stars that night. From that moment on, conversation after conversation, circumstance after circumstance, we only found more things in common and more understanding.

That trip to Brazil changed my whole life. Don’t get me wrong, my life was already great, but an entirely new path was forged as a result. I always believed in taking chances, in living outside my comfort zone. I just didn't believe there could be a partner so suited so me. I didn't believe in soul mates or falling stars or that anything was really meant to be. Now I have an inkling that some of those mystical ideas are real. What I see now is that the universe offers us magnificent opportunities. We have to recognize them and then do what it takes to see them come to fruition. Maybe, just maybe, some things are meant to be.

More: 5 Ways to stretch your intuition muscles

You don't have to look very far on social media to find pictures of women holding their newborns in their arms for the first time. They're obviously exhausted from the labor and delivery of their child, but that's not what typically stands out about these pictures. What stands out most is the obvious beam of light these women are emitting — their eyes filled with tears, their arms warmly wrapped around their babies, their faces so smitten with love. If there ever was a picture that was indeed worth a thousand words, it would be the moment when a mother meets her child for the first time.

More: Mom horrified that doctors "lost" her baby during emergency C-section

Movie, magazines and books all paint a picture of that moment as this life-altering euphoria, coupled with the heart-stopping jubilation of falling into a deep, passionate, and rapturous love. They make it seem as though those are the only acceptable emotions a woman should feel during such a precious moment and that if she doesn't immediately have her heart stolen by this tiny, perfect person she must somehow be deeply and profoundly troubled.

Well, color me crazy but I didn't fall in love at the first sight of my son. He was beautiful. I mean really, really beautiful. He was healthy and plump, and he had a head full of perfect fuzzy hair. He was flawless, but I wasn't in love.

The moment we met could be best described as two people about to partake in an arranged marriage. After 24 hours of labor, 12 hours of mind-numbing Pitocin contractions, 4 hours of awkwardly crying in front of my even more awkward in-laws and 2 hours of pain meds, my sunny disposition in regards to meeting my son had all but deteriorated. So when I made the final push that brought him into this world, I really just wanted to pass out.

More: 7 Things the Gilmore Girls taught us about motherhood (GIFs)

When the doctor placed him on my chest, all I remember is he felt so warm. He didn't cry. I didn't cry. We just stared at each other for a moment, and I uncomfortably shook his little hand. "It's nice to finally meet you," I said, "I'm Han, your mom. I'm your mom." We continued to size one another up while the doctors and nurses tended to my lower half and my husband practiced breathing exercises so as to not pass out. A nurse grabbed Dylan and carted him off to the other side of the room to check his vitals and monitor his breathing.

With stone cold shock and fear in our eyes, my husband and I stared at each other, silently asking the same question — did that really just happen? Are we really parents now? As I assume it is for most parents, the moment your child enters the world is a sobering experience. Yes, it's beautiful and life-changing and exultant, but it's also terrifying.

I'm still not sure whether it was the fear of the unknown or the drug-induced haze that caused my reaction to meeting my son to be so muted, but it bothered me. I felt it should have been stronger, that I should have felt something deeper. All the pictures I had seen of my friends meeting their children for the first time told the tale of a woman who had just fallen in love. Their eyes were so obviously filled with bliss, and glee had manifested itself in their beaming smiles.

More: Jessa Duggar gets caught in debate over photos moms should take of kids

The fact that my emotions didn't come pouring down my face worried me. We live in a society full of fantasies, one that pressures women and mothers to feel certain emotions and to be a certain way. This society is constantly telling us that if we don't all adhere to these standards of conduct — whether physical or emotional — that our stock is worth less, that there most definitely must be something wrong with us. And that's exactly how I felt, like I was somehow flawed for not feeling enough.

Once we got to our room, my husband took care of our son while I rested. It was around 8 a.m. when I woke up. The sun was shining, and both my husband and my son were sleeping. The light shined through the window and sparkled against my son's beautiful blond hair, and he wiggled his little fingers and toes every time I brushed my finger against his soft, chubby cheeks. Slowly but surely, I was falling in love.

I don't have a picture of the moment I met my son, but I do have a thousand words. Some of them are strange and awkward and questionable, but the extraordinary love story they tell is completely worth every single anomalous emotion that I questioned. I might not have fallen in love at first sight, but that doesn't mean I didn't eventually fall deeply and madly in love with my son. It took us some time to get to that point, and that's okay. We got there.

Sounds like good, wholesome family fun, right? Except Super Bowl commercials have a long and not-so-pleasant history of being sexist and degrading towards women. Which is the exact opposite of fun and wholesome, and troubling for parents who are trying to raise both daughters and sons to recognize that the sexual degradation of women has got to go.

More: 12 Stereotype-busting pro-female ads that help pave a path (VIDEO)

But do kids actually notice the sexist undertones of Super Bowl commercials? Do we really need to interrupt shoving our faces with pizza and wings to talk about the objectification of women? Maybe you should ask the kids. We did!

For the second year in a row, SheKnows asked the teens in our #Hatch program to take a look at some of the most popular Super Bowl commercials ... to see what it is the kids will actually notice, and take away, from the ads. What they say might just surprise you:

Still think you can just watch the game, and all of that sexist stuff will go over your kids' heads?

Whether overt or blatant, the sexism in Super Bowl ads clearly hasn't gone away ... despite increasingly vocal protest from the viewership. What's more, our kids notice. Even when they're laughing, as the #HatchKids did at Kevin Hart's over-protective father in that Hyundai ad, they're smart enough to know that the old "dad knows best" schtick is tired, old and incredibly offensive to young women everywhere (By the way, Hyundai struck out even worse with its Ryan Reynolds' Ryanville ad, which got an average score of 2 from the #HatchKids).

More: 14 Things dads of daughters absolutely need to know

Nor do ads with older references, ie. Marilyn Monroe's famous subway skirt photo, simply go over their heads. They watch. And they take in how women are treated.

Our kids are smart. We get that. Yay us. That means when an ad gets it "right," we can pat ourselves on the back because our kids are all over that, right? Wrong.

They might key in to the positive, but it never hurts to reinforce how refreshing it is. When SheKnows surveyed women to find out how they feel about the Super Bowl ads, 60 percent said they're watching the game for the ads, but just 2 percent said they feel like they're directed toward them. Having Helen Mirren dare to be a beer drinker (yes, women can enjoy a brewski ... responsibly, of course), be the focal point of an entire ad and actually have something important to say (!?) shouldn't be so revolutionary, and yet, it was.

OK, enough talking, right? Time for some football? Well, about that.

More: Kids’ adorable take on love will leave you in stitches (VIDEO)

The NFL's anti-domestic violence ad might have gotten a 10 from the #HatchKids, but the fact that the kids saw fit to give the folks behind the scenes a rating of just 1 for paying mere lip service to the issue is reminder that when our kids are swallowing up flashy, candy-coated ads, they're not seeing the machinations of the companies behind them. It's easy to buy that a company or product is what the commercial portrays, thanks to the brilliance of good lighting and quippy jokes. But we aren't just raising kids, we're raising future consumers ... and we want them to be SMART consumers.

Let's face it: this conversation can't stop after that last touchdown is made, the Super Bowl MVP named. Advertisers are in our kids' faces everywhere and every day. Even in a world of commercial-free on-demand programming, children ages 2 to 11 see an estimated 25,600 ads every year, 40 percent of that from non-children's shows.

Let that sink in: 25,600 ads ... in a year.

Our kids are watching.

Are we?

More on horoscopes

Weekly love horoscopes: Feb. 8–14

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An extraordinary alignment of planets moves you from the back of the line to the head of the class this week. This may be based on the unexpected departure of a supervisor, the collapse of a rival’s campaign to further his ambitions or overdue recognition for a job well-done. In any case, you really must seize this opportunity. You’ve often talked about what you would do if you were ever given the chance to showcase your talents and abilities, and now you shall have it. Remember that life will be different now that you’re where all the action is.

Next: Taurus horoscope

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The sun at the highest point of your solar chart shows that this is the time to push for what you want out of life. Sensational aspects involving Venus, Mars and Jupiter show that you have all the help, resources and encouragement that you need to realize your aims and ambitions. But will this success be a flash in the pan? Thankfully, Venus and Jupiter are in earth signs. This bestows stability, consistency and longevity. After a series of wrong turns and dead-ends, it looks like you’re finally on the right path. Expect the best, and you will get it.

Next: Gemini horoscope

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You’ll breathe a huge sigh of relief when ruling planet Mercury finally enters the clear-thinking sign of Aquarius on Feb. 13. Its recent retrograde in Capricorn really sent you scrambling for higher ground. In fact, the first few weeks of 2016 have probably been the most mentally taxing, emotionally exhausting and psychologically frustrating that you’ve experienced in years. It’s been a long time since you’ve felt this baffled and thwarted by circumstances that were beyond your control. Nevertheless, somewhere along the line you must have found the right door and turned the key because things will soon look much brighter.

Next: Cancer horoscope

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The symbol for Cancer is the crab. Crabs are at the bottom of the food chain and appeal to most of us as a yummy meal. This fear of being gobbled up keeps you hidden under the rocks. Any risk of exposure could mean the end of you. This week you have a chance to push for something more — like money, power or prestige — as long as you stop hugging the shadows. It’s time to demand what you’re worth. Not ask, demand. It will shock the higher-ups, but you’ll spur them to do what should have been done long ago.

Next: Leo horoscope

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The other party hasn’t left the bargaining table all together, which means that there’s still hope that a sale or deal will go through. Now you may feel like you’ve given it your best shot, you’ve done all of the accommodating and you simply don’t have the energy to try again. In truth, you’ve been just as immovable as the other side. Nobody is blameless here. The point is to find a fit and that’s exactly what the Mars/Jupiter sextile on Feb. 13 is good for. Commit to another round of negotiations, and you will see real progress this time.

Next: Virgo horoscope

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Virgos have a love/hate relationship to accomplishment. That’s because an accomplishment means you’ve completed a task or finished an assignment and are now ready to graduate to something else. This causes most Virgos to freeze in their tracks. Indeed, some will go even back and mess up everything they’ve done because it’s better to clean up the hell you know than to explore the heaven you don’t. Make sure you don’t make this mistake when you hear news of a better opportunity this week. You should pursue it. This is your chance to shine in a totally different setting.

Next: Libra horoscope

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It’s hard to believe that being benched could prove so enlightening. Whether this was due to an injury, being passed over or an enforced “time out,” it certainly has helped you to gain a better perspective on matters and to develop a deeper appreciation for the things that you have. As a Libra you can get carried away with other people’s ideas of what you should be doing rather than connecting to your own personal fulfillment. Instead of missing out, this time away from the action has actually prepared you for one of the greatest opportunities yet to come.

Next: Scorpio horoscope

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Paying it forward is Jupiter’s MO, and it looks like you’re in a position to do someone a good turn like someone else once did for you. Now you may doubt whether this person is ready or even deserves it. And that’s the point. Jupiter, the planet of fortune, often selects diamonds in the rough to work its special magic on. After all, you weren’t anybody’s idea of a shiny example back in the day. So go ahead and make that phone call, introduction or endorsement that you know will make the difference. You’ll be proud to see what you begat months from now.

Next: Sagittarius horoscope

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What would life look like if you were free of your burdens, lifted out of that rut you’ve been in and given all the materials and resources you need to do what you want to do? It would be a wonderful world. Well, this is something you need to focus on now that Jupiter is nearing the halfway point of its journey through Virgo. The planet of good fortune isn’t going to shower you with riches, but it will reward your diligence, hard work and discipline as long as they’re in service to something that has a higher purpose than a paycheck.

Next: Capricorn horoscope

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You’ll be recouping lost ground thanks to the Mars/Jupiter sextile on Feb. 13. This is when misunderstandings are cleared up, debts are repaid and resources that were withheld from you are made available again. Make the most of this that you possibly can. Yes, you’ll have to burn the candle at both ends in order to bring things up to speed, but the extra effort will prove worth it. Meanwhile, look for the reappearance of an offer or invite that you assumed was gone. This person feels bad about what went down and wants to make it up to you.

Next: Aquarius horoscope

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It isn’t always easy to kill people with kindness, but if anyone can turn good manners into a lethal weapon, it’s you. Well-versed in etiquette and protocol, you know that you can turn around just about any situation as long as you take the high road. Thankfully, this pays off for you this week when a certain offender is sent packing by a superior. The past few weeks have been draining, taxing and even dispiriting, but the new moon on Feb. 8 shows that your unerring commitment to doing what’s best for everyone involved will always triumph in the end.

Next: Pisces horoscope

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You’re not the invisible woman. Sometimes it can feel that way but that has more to do with your self-esteem than it does with people looking right through you. If anything, loved ones and friends see you as one of their most treasured possessions. Your companionship means more to them than most earthly belongings. This is something you need to let sink in when Venus trines Jupiter on Feb. 9. There is support and appreciation all around you. It’s also a time when hopes and wishes will be fulfilled because people in positions of power and influence are all ears.

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It's abundantly clear that your boyfriend needs to up his game in the bedroom. He's not necessarily bad, but he's kind of doing the same thing over and over again. If this were a girlfriend, then you could probably have a candid conversation about it, but he's a guy which means that he's going to be over sensitive. Thank heavens the Mars/Jupiter sextile this week gives you the ability to be straightforward and to just tell it like it is. All he needs are some pointers. Be easygoing and good-humored about it and you'll see a big improvement by Valentine's Day.

Next: Taurus horoscope

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Everyone knows that you are capable of taking care of yourself and this includes the guy you're dating. You fought long and hard for your independence and you aren't going to do anything to jeopardize that. However, going out with someone who never asks for help, pays her own way and is proudly self-sufficient can make a fellow feel extraneous. Guys need to feel needed — kind of like Labrador Retrievers who need to be given something to do. You may never understand the point of throwing a stick and watching him fetch it, but it would sure make him happy.

Next: Gemini horoscope

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Money matters pertaining to real estate and property have stolen a lot of focus lately. Whether it's a move, a remodel or a refi you have been so absorbed in crunching numbers that there's been little time for anything else. Thankfully this comes to an end this week when a magnificent Venus/Jupiter trine shows you locking in the deal you were hoping to make. Could terms have been better? Sure. You're a Gemini. Terms can always be better. However, you're free of all the haggling which means you can finally give loved ones the undivided attention that they've been missing.

Next: Cancer horoscope

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Love doesn't have to be that complicated as you'll discover this week when you meet someone who fits you like a favorite sweater. He may not wow you with his looks or bowl you over with his six-figure salary, but it's clear that he gets you on a very deep and soulful level. He's comfortable, supportive, and it feels like you've known him for years. If anything you'll be hard-pressed to find anything that's wrong with him. The Venus/Jupiter trine shows that this could evolve into the relationship you've always wanted if you're willing to live without the drama.

Next: Leo horoscope

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You may not be doing much more than falling into bed together at the end of the day, but at least you're together. Jupiter in Virgo has certainly been putting you through your paces. If you're not physically exhausted from all the running around that you've had to do lately, then you're bound to be psychologically drained by others' constant demands for approval and attention. Thankfully your lover gets this — probably because his schedule is just as unrelenting as yours. Thankfully there will be a lightening up in the workload soon. March looks like a good month to get reacquainted.

Next: Virgo horoscope

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For some inexplicable reason Virgo has acquired a reputation for being the most safe and unromantic sign of the zodiac. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you tend to be cautious, it's because of all the times you risked it all for someone you believed to be the real deal. Years of landing in the briar patch instead of a soft downy mattress have taught you to be more discerning, but discrimination still flies out the window when you fall for someone. Thank heavens the Venus/Jupiter trine on Feb. 9 shows that the person you're enamored with truly is Mr. Right.

Next: Libra horoscope

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What a difference a week makes! But that's because your ruling planet Venus will be traveling through much friendlier skies thanks to a series of trines and sextiles. These cosmic energies are ideal for patching up differences, rebuilding burnt bridges and having that conversation that you wished you had had before things got so vitriolic and nasty. It's nice to know that loved ones can be so forgiving, but then that's why they're called loved ones right? In any case it doesn't look like you'll be sleeping alone this Valentine's Day and that's the best astrological prediction of all.

Next: Scorpio horoscope

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It's been a while since you caught someone's eye so you'll be in for a tickle when Venus trines Jupiter on Feb. 9. Venus and Jupiter are famous for flirtations, dalliances and affairs. You could have a lot of fun this week if you're in the mood. And if you're not — or if you're already spoken for — then you can still enjoy this harmless ego boost. After all you're not the one who was doing the window shopping. Besides it never hurts to remind your other half that you're a hot chick and he should keep an eye on the store.

Next: Sagittarius horoscope

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You may not feel like you're much to look at these days, but somebody else disagrees. Thankfully beauty is in the eye of the beholder and doesn't depend on such vagaries as confidence and a positive self-image to work her magic. However, you're in danger of missing the boat altogether if you don't key into what's going on. They say that love comes into your life when you're not looking, but there's a difference between not looking and clueless. Thankfully a magnificent Mars/Jupiter sextile on Feb. 13 shows you putting two and two together in the nick of time.

Next: Capricorn horoscope

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It's hard to believe that someone you've been crushing on from afar could actually be interested in you as well, but these are the sorts of things that happen when Venus forms a trine to Jupiter. This is one of the most romantic astrological combinations you can possibly have and the fact that the trine takes place in earth signs means that you will see your highest hopes realized. That's because earth energy is all about materialization. Earth energy also bestows stability, solvency, fortitude and longevity. In other words all the cornerstones you need to build a solid relationship that lasts.

Next: Aquarius horoscope

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A certain bane to your existence will soon be moving on. But before he does, you'll be surprised to learn that he always held you in high esteem. It's crazy considering that all he's done is pick apart your behavior, undermine your best efforts and poke holes in your aspirations. You thought he didn't like you, but the opposite is true. It only goes to show that negative attention is still attention which explains why he enjoyed getting a rise out of you. He's hopeful that you'll stay in touch. Smile and nod and then delete his number as fast as you can.

Next: Pisces horoscope

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Sometimes your idea of love can get in the way of the real thing. What it stems from are some very fixed ideas (prejudices perhaps?) about how love is supposed to work. You see yourself as doing all the giving and the other person as doing all the taking. But what if this simply isn't true? The Venus/Jupiter trine on Feb. 9 will serve as a gentle reminder that most people are both givers and takers which means that we could all use a bit more give and take when it comes to finding the right balance in a relationship.

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Which presidents does Presidents Day really honor?

The federal holiday — Washington's Birthday (often called Presidents Day) — falls on the third Monday of February. It honors George Washington, our nation’s first president, for his birthday on Feb. 22. However, in some states the holiday has also come to honor second president Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday was Feb. 12. And in other states, the holiday honors Thomas Jefferson, our third president, even though his birthday isn’t until April 13, and doesn’t include celebrating Lincoln’s birthday. Yet other states recognize all three on this day.

Each of these presidents has an important legacy in our nation’s history so you can create some fun lessons for kids about any or all of them.

More: 6 Women in history your kids (and you!) should know

Honesty is the best policy

George Washington could not tell a lie, and as a young boy, admitted to his father that he chopped down his father’s favorite cherry tree. Draw a cherry tree with your child as you discuss the importance of honesty.

Beyond his childhood, Washington was a respected war hero. He spent a great deal of time surveying the wilderness and creating maps for his soldiers.

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Advocate for others

Abraham Lincoln is best known for his role in abolishing slavery in the United States. Teach your children the importance of Lincoln’s impact on our country today thanks to this initiative. You can tie in lessons about Martin Luther King, who similarly advocated for African Americans in his day, and teach them why it is important to speak up for those who may not be able to speak up for themselves.

For a fun craft, make tall top hats like Lincoln wore out of construction paper.

Freedom, exploration and trying new things

Thomas Jefferson was known for many things — including penning the Declaration of Independence and organizing the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804.

But your children may be more interested in the new foods he introduced to the country — waffles, ice cream and macaroni. He was also the first person in America to grow a tomato, as prior to that tomatoes were believed to be poisonous.

In honor of Jefferson, try a new food, take your kids out for waffles or ice cream (or kill two birds with one stone by getting ice cream in waffle cones), plant tomato seeds or arrange a fun scavenger hunt and go exploring around your neighborhood.

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Other ways to commemorate Presidents Day with your kids:

• Teach your kids all the presidents’ names in order of their service.
• Ask your children what they would do first if they became president.
• Get out some money and talk about the presidents featured on coins and dollar bills.
• Give your kids a mini history lesson about the significance of Mount Rushmore.

Updated by Bethany Ramos on 2/8/2016