Quantcast
Channel: What's New
Viewing all 33701 articles
Browse latest View live

Prince's death is probably related to drugs, according to expert

0
0

The world seems to be standing still as we wait for more news about why Prince died at his home earlier this week at the age of 57. The enigmatic musician and creative genius never made his life an open book, which may be why the rumor mill has been going strong since Prince was found dead at his Paisley Park estate in Minneapolis on April 21. Was his death the result of complications from a reported flu virus that resulted in the emergency landing of his flight from Atlanta to Minneapolis just a few days prior to his death? Had he been secretly suffering from a chronic disease for years without anyone knowing about it (which could explain why he told audience members at a concert right before his death, "Wait a few days before you waste any prayers")?

An expert says the cause of Prince's death was probably a drug overdose — which leaves us with even more questions.

Although the results of an autopsy conducted Friday are not expected to be released until sometime next week, at least one expert says that Prince did not commit suicide and that all signs now point to a drug overdose.

"I would give overwhelming odds that, tragically, this is a drug death," said family forensic pathologist Cyril Wecht. "When you rule out foul play, when there is no history of any kind of significant disease... heart and lung... when you rule out any kind of intervention, anything of an environmental nature, you come down to an autopsy that is essentially negative... and that probably means drugs."

More: Inside Prince's last days: Did he know the end was near?

Wecht continued to explain that the plane's emergency landing fits with the theory that Prince Rogers Nelson's death was related to drugs. "I cannot think of any medical or pathological condition that fits that kind of scenario, with incredible ups and downs... other than drugs."

But what kind of drugs are we talking about here? And let's say Prince was taking prescription drugs — did he suffer from either a physical or mental ailment that required them? I don't think we should jump to conclusions because we read the word "drugs." There is still a lot here that requires explanation.

More: We're mourning Prince in public, but in private it's so much more

Prince was found alone, fully clothed, in his elevator at Paisley Park. First responders administered CPR but were unable to revive him. Carver County Sheriff Jim Olson said that some of the responders were carrying an antidote for drug overdoses, called Narcan, but that they did not use it. Olson also said that no other medical calls were reported from the Paisley Park estate this year regarding Prince.

The investigation into Prince's death has only just begun. In all likelihood, it will be weeks or even months before we find out the exact cause of his death. Despite this new information, it's important that we keep this in mind: We simply don't have all of the facts needed to determine what, exactly, was to blame for the death of an icon.


Chrissy Teigen Snapchats precious moments with baby Luna

0
0

Leave it to Chrissy Teigen to make caring for a newborn baby look like the party of the year. The proud mama, along with husband John Legend, hasn't been shy about introducing the world to her precious baby girl Luna Simone — and Teigen took to Snapchat to discover even more creative ways of showing off the new little one.

Teigen went filter crazy while Luna slept peacefully in her arms, experimenting with both the puppy lens, a makeup filter and, most fitting of all, a floral crown that suits her new status as queen mom. All the while, Luna, who is now just a little more than one week old, sleeps peacefully on Teigen's chest, completely unaware of the fact that hundreds of thousands of her mom and dad's fans are cooing and laughing over these photos. Ah, to be a newborn and already a household name.

There was this delightful Snapchat session where Teigen is grooming her little girl:

Chrissy ig

Chrissy ig

More: BRB, squealing over Chrissy Teigen's first pic of her baby girl Luna Simone

And then there were these playful pics showing that Teigen may already be missing her glam days, when hundreds of people fretted over her face and hair (don't worry, Chrissy, you'll be back doing photo shoots before you know it): 

Chrissy Teigen floral crown

Chrissy Teigen floral crown

Granted, Luna is sleeping soundly in these photos, but Teigen is making motherhood look like a breeze. She seems so comfortable in her new role — as if she is just going with the flow and embracing every moment.

More: Chrissy Teigen just got seriously real about peeing after birth

It's difficult, sometimes, to remember that the very early days of motherhood (I'm talking the first two weeks) can be extremely serene and even a bit boring. Sure, you're learning how to nurse or bottle-feed your baby and are up every two hours to care for her, but her demands are usually reasonable and straightforward: feed me, soothe me, put me to sleep. If anyone is wondering how Teigen has so much time on her hands to Snapchat these moments, it's probably because her sleeping schedule is so wacky and off-track that there are times when she doesn't know what the heck to do with herself.

And let's not forget: New moms need to interact with the outside world or they'll lose their sanity — even if that just means reaching out to folks who follow them on social media.

Let's hope Teigen keeps these photos, vids and new mom updates coming. The world needs an honest new mom who tells it like it is.

3 Mother's Day desserts Mama definitely wants

0
0

Mother's Day means it's time to get your brunch on whilst celebrating the lovely lady who gave you life. Brunch wouldn't be brunch without a little something sweet — like one of these delicious (and very brunch-friendly) dessert options Mom is bound to love.

Right out the gate, Pavlova is sure to satisfy even the sweetest of sweet tooths. I call Pavlova a big marshmallow because it's light, shiny and gorgeous, just like the Russian ballerina it was named for. It's a stunning end to dinner parties; use any berry or fruit to make your compote.

Mother's Day pavlova
Image: Johner/Getty Images

Pavlova

Yields 1 large Pavlova

Ingredients:

  • 6 egg whites
  • 1 pinch fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 cup sugar

Directions:

  1. Place the rack in the middle of the oven, and heat the oven to 250 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment.
  2. In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the egg whites until just frothy. Add the salt, vanilla extract, cream of tartar and cornstarch. Slowly add the sugar, and beat until the meringue is shiny and stiff peaks form.
  3. Pour the mixture onto the baking sheet, and make a slight well in the center; this is where the berry compote will go. Bake until dry, about 1 hour, and remove from the oven. Let cool, and top with the compote.

Tip: Cream of tartar and cornstarch are two stabilizers used to create a meringue. If you don't have them, don't worry; just make sure to pay particular attention to not over-whip the whites.

Next up: Lemon-poppy seed bread

{pageBreak}

I love lemon-poppy seed in all forms. A friend's grandmother gave this recipe to me, and I couldn't love a recipe more. It's perfect for someone who enjoys eating dessert all day long (me!), because it's just sweet enough to feel like you're indulging but light enough to have for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Like a pound cake, but lighter.

Lemon poppyseed bread
Image: Ashton Keefe/SheKnows

Lemon-poppy seed bread

Yields 1 Bundt cake

Ingredients:

  • 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 lemon's zest and juices, divided
  • 1/4 cup poppy seeds
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Directions:

  1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a Bundt pan with cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In another large bowl, mix the oil and sugar. Add the eggs 1 at a time, beating after each addition. Add the evaporated milk, the milk and the vanilla. Add the dry ingredients, and mix well. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice (leave 1 tablespoon for icing) and poppy seeds. Bake for 40 – 45 minutes or until a cake tester comes out with moist crumbs attached. Let cool for 20 minutes.
  3. To make the lemon icing, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon juice with the powdered sugar, and whisk until there are no lumps and the sugar is moist. Drizzle over the cake, and allow it to harden.

Tip: Evaporated milk is a shelf-stable milk product that's had about half its water content removed. It is not the same as sweetened condensed milk, which has added sugar. Don't substitute regular milk or sweetened condensed milk for this!

Next up: One-pan brownies

{pageBreak}

This next recipe is fabulous because it involves only one pan and one spoon. Stove to oven to mouth in less than 30 minutes. Now, take that to the game.

One-pan brownie
Image: Ashton Keefe/SheKnows

One-pan brownies

Yields 1 (6 x 6-inch) tray of brownies

Ingredients:

  • 1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup whole raw walnuts

Directions:

  1. Heat the oven to 325 degrees F.
  2. Over low heat, slowly warm a metal brownie pan or small cast-iron skillet (do not use a glass pan for this) to melt the butter and chocolate, stirring until just melted. Remove the pan from the burner, and add the vanilla, salt and 1 egg at a time.
  3. As the batter thickens, add the sugar and flour, stirring until just combined.
  4. Wipe the sides of the tray or skillet (for clean edges), and stud the surface with walnuts. Place the brownies in the oven, and bake for 20 – 22 minutes or until the brownie is set but slightly gooey. A knife inserted in the center of the pan should have moist crumbs upon removal.
  5. Let cool completely, and serve.

Lemon & Salt: A Modern Girl's Guide to Culinary Revelry is available on Amazon — check it out!

Updated by Bethany Ramos on 4/13/16

Writer Michelle McNamara, wife of Patton Oswalt, dies at 46

0
0

Such incredibly shocking and sad news — crime writer Michelle McNamara, wife of Patton Oswalt, was found dead at her home in Los Angeles Friday morning. McNamara was just 46.

Oswalt's publicist confirmed the news, saying the actor and comedian's wife of nearly 10 years died in her sleep. The exact cause of her death was not given, but friends and family are reportedly shocked at the news, which leads us to believe that McNamara didn't suffer from any known illnesses prior to her death. The couple have a 7-year-old daughter, Alice.

McNamara was a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and received a master's degree in creative writing from the University of Minnesota. She was the founder of a website called True Crime Diary. She once said she founded the blog because of her intense curiosity about criminal cases — mainly those that didn't nab big headlines.

"I'm drawn to cases that aren't so high profile, that are even maybe a little neglected, but which have enough evidence and clues that anyone with a will and an Internet connection can try to piece together the puzzle," McNamara said in a 2011 interview. "That's exciting to me. It feels like the difference between looking forward and looking back."

More: Patton Oswalt's recent joke proved we're all way too sensitive

Her best known works include those about the Golden State Killer and the 1976 murder of a nurse named Melanie Howell. In addition to her writing career, McNamara hosted a podcast and appeared on the Investigation Discovery series A Crime to Remember.

McNamara married Oswalt in 2005. Although he has been performing at comedy clubs for years, he nabbed his most famous roles — including those in Veep and Justified — while married to McNamara.

Understandably, Oswalt has been silent on social media since his wife's death, with his last Twitter post addressing the death of Prince this week.

More: End of the world? Rob Corddry, Patton Oswalt do heroin

Oswalt's friend, filmmaker Kevin Smith, offered his support on Twitter: "Oh my God, @pattonoswalt — my heart breaks for you & your family's devastating loss. If you need any help, I'm here."

Our thoughts are with his family at this time.

Meet the breed: Caucasian ovcharka

0
0

If you love huge, fluffy dogs, then you will adore the Caucasian ovcharka. Also known as Caucasian shepherd dogs and Caucasian mountain dogs, these muscular canines average anywhere from 100 to 220 pounds. Could the Caucasian ovcharka be your next cuddle buddy and fearsome protector?

Caucasian ovcharka history

The Caucasus Mountains area is rough, mountainous country. The herdsmen of the steppes and mountains needed a dog sturdy enough to stand up to both the predators of the region and the harsh winters. The result was the Caucasian ovcharka, a mastiff-type livestock guardian dog known for its legendary protectiveness and ferocity.

More: Top 10 breeds to use as guard dogs

These traits led the former U.S.S.R. to establish state kennels of Caucasian ovcharkas to guard factories and government buildings, which must have been very intimidating for anyone foolish enough to try to get past these fluffy guard dogs.

caucasian ovcharka history
Image: ratilc/YouTube

Caucasian ovcharka appearance

Most people are familiar with the shaggy, bearlike coat of the Caucasian ovcharka, but the breed actually comes in three distinctive coat types:

  • Long coat
  • Intermediate coat
  • Short coat

Long-coated Caucasian ovcharkas have a long outer coat and dense undercoat. The outer coat gives the dog a maned appearance, and the feathering on their hind legs makes them look like they are wearing silky pants. Intermediate coats are a little shorter than the long-coated variety, but you can still see the mane and feathering. Short coats are the least common and lack any feathering or mane. All coats have a light-colored undercoat and a wide variety of coloring and markings in their outer coat.

More: Top 10 dog breeds for single women

caucasian ovcharka coat
Image: petlove19k/YouTube

Caucasian ovcharka temperament

Caucasian ovcharkas are excellent guard dogs and they take their job seriously. They are very protective of their family and territory, especially at night, and perceive strange dogs and people as a threat. Very little scares this enormous dog, which means that owners need to be very diligent with the training and socialization of their Caucasian ovcharka.

More: Top 10 large dog breeds

The breed is intelligent and independent, which means they are easy to train but are also perfectly capable of making their own decisions, which you might not always agree with. They are loyal and affectionate with their families and are gentle with children. Their large size and tendency to bark, especially at night, makes them a poor choice for urban settings and apartment buildings.

caucasian ovcharka family dog
Image: Silvestru Popescu/YouTube

Grooming your Caucasian ovcharka

Long, intermediate and short-coated Caucasian ovcharkas are large and hairy dogs. If you can't stand shedding, then the Caucasian ovcharka is not the dog for you. All coat varieties require regular brushing to prevent excessive shedding and mats.

More: 16 things only people covered in pet hair will understand

Are Caucasian ovcharkas a healthy breed?

Caucasian ovcharkas are a giant breed of dog, which means they are prone to large-breed health problems like bone and joint disorders. They typically live around 10 to 12 years, and like any dog, require proper nutrition and plenty of exercise.

Is the Caucasian ovcharka the breed for you?

If you are looking for a fluffy protector who is willing to put their life on the line for you every day, then the Caucasian ovcharka could be the dog for you. However, as with all large guard dog breeds, this breed is definitely not for everyone. They do best with experienced dog owners with a large, fenced backyard and plenty of time to devote to cuddling, training and walking this lion-like pooch.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below: 

firefighters with puppies instagram
Image: firefighterscalendar/instagram

I'd rather be the mom of the kid who hits back than the kid who takes it

0
0

My husband and I have always known the day would come when I would be summoned to the principal's office to hear about something our 5-year-old has done to get in trouble. In fact, it's been a kind of running joke among our friends and family pretty much since she could walk.

But I never imaged it would happen as early as preschool, and I never expected it would be for taking out her own personal bully. I also never dreamed I wouldn't care.

More: Little girls (and little boys) need to be told when they're being bossy

My daughter is the happiest, cuddliest little girl I know. But she's also always been a handful.

She's strong-willed, outspoken and completely unafraid of anything. She also kind of thinks she's a ninja. All of these traits are completely adorable and endearing (to us), but they're also loud, flashing signs that let us know what we're in for. And they're traits that will serve her well as she ventures out into a world that's not always kind or easy.

Turns out, my little ninja won't take crap from anyone, including pushy little boys on the playground. And yes, that's something I'm proud of.

As her teacher told me the reason my tiny little girl had spent the better half of her day with the principal, it was really hard to keep the smile off my face. A boy, one who is nearly twice her size and who has been nagging her since the very first day of school, had been at it again. The teachers saw him invading her space and doing his best to drive her crazy. And they pulled her aside and gave her a warning when she told him she was going to hit him if he didn't leave her alone. Nothing was done to get the little boy to actually give her the space she was asking for. If you ask me, they shouldn't have been surprised when she finally did hit him. She warned him, right?

More: I spoil the heck out of my kids and you can guess how it's going

After they filled me in on her "transgressions," they let me know I should talk to her with my husband, and strongly suggested she be punished at home.

Is it wrong that what I really wanted to do was give her a high-five and take her out for ice cream?

You see, this little ninja isn't my only child. She's my youngest, and she's a stark contrast to my older daughter, who is quiet, shy and timid. My oldest is only in the first grade, and already has dealt with her share of bullies at school. We've sat up countless nights and talked about why kids are mean, trying to give her the courage to deal with these children who just don't have it in them to be nice. But my daughter, she's too kind and concerned with being liked to ever do anything but bend over backwards trying to make these bullies her friends. It's painful for a mama to watch.

After a couple years of dealing with this, my younger daughter and her no-holds-barred self-preservation methods are a breath of fresh air.

I'm thrilled to know I can send this child to kindergarten next year and never worry about her falling victim to playground bullies. I'm happy to know that this little girl is strong and brave and will stand up for herself when it's needed.

More: When I tried to help a kid in trouble no one would help me

I'm not condoning violence. By no means do I think it's OK for kids to start hitting when they don't get their way, and I did talk about this with my youngest. I also warned her that next year, in elementary school, the consequences for similar actions would be much worse.

But on the other hand, she addressed him with words first, and she was the one who was reprimanded by the teachers. I don't blame her one bit for being a normal 5-year-old and lashing out when all else failed.

I don't think this makes my kid a bully, and I don't have one single worry that she'll grow to be one. She's kind and caring, and a very good friend. She just doesn't have much tolerance for kids who don't have those same values, and I'm fine with that.

I've been the parent of the kid who does nothing and takes it, and the parent of the kid who takes nothing and defends herself. There's no doubt in my mind that I'd rather be the latter — even if does land me in the principal's office every now and then.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below: 

motherhood quotes
Image: Inti St. Clair/Getty Images

Why your divorce attorney doesn't want you to date

0
0

Sooner or later, the overwhelming majority of my divorce clients ask me some version of this question: "Is it OK if I start dating?" Interestingly enough, many of them ask me this question when they have already begun dating because they are looking for someone to approve of what they are doing.

More: How my ex-husband, my new man and I became best friends

I reassure them immediately that California is a no-fault divorce state, which means as long as there are "irreconcilable differences," one can get divorced in our state. I also add that unless they are performing wild sex acts hanging from the chandelier in front of their children, the judge is not going to care.

Dating — especially seriously — before your divorce is final can be huge, both economically and — more importantly — in terms of your children. Even if you are legally separated, your spouse was the one who initiated the divorce or he was cheating on you, the knowledge that you've moved on or found someone new, and better, can dramatically change the emotional dynamics and turn what was once a relatively amicable split into an ugly, protracted battle.

In a perfect world (you know the fairy tale one our mothers might have led us to believe existed), the best legal advice is to wait to date until the ink is dry on your divorce papers so you don't upset the apple cart. In the real world, we all want to, and need to, move on. In fact, I tell clients all the time that divorce is not the same as being diagnosed with an incurable disease. After being married a long time to a frog, it can be revitalizing to find love again — and new sex is not so bad, either!

For those of you about to dip your big toe into the dating pool or jump right in from the high dive, here are some do's and don'ts of dating while divorcing.

Dating do's during a divorce

Do go slow.

Refrain from dating until you have physically separated, and you and your children have stabilized. It gets somewhat messy when your date picks you up at home while your kids and ex are having dinner. If you wait until the dust has somewhat settled, it increases the chances of having a healthier next relationship. No date wants to hear your tale of woe about your ex over candlelight and red wine. In fact, save the complaining for your divorce attorney who is being paid to listen to your concerns.

When you are truly ready, get your feet wet in the singles scene by socializing in group settings (e.g., professional events, sports leagues, classes on wine tasting, foreign languages, movies or other areas of interest to you) rather than one-on-one dates. If you meet someone you like, be honest about your situation and the need to go slow and keep things low-key.

Your children should not meet your date until you believe there is a good probability that he is a "keeper." Children are emotionally fragile when their parents divorce, so you should do everything possible to avoid causing them more pain by exposing them prematurely to a new mate.

Do practice discretion.

Although you may feel like getting on social media and showing off your new guy, it's best to keep him under wraps. Flaunting him in front of your ex can spark feelings of jealousy, anger or embarrassment. In other words, you don't want to cause your ex a narcissistic wound. I've seen these feelings escalate to the point that a divorcing spouse, either consciously or subconsciously, tries to soothe his pain with a knock-down, drag-out fight over assets, spousal or child support, or custody of children.

I hate to recommend that you use your feminine wiles, but use your feminine wiles by keeping a low profile and having your ex feeling sorry for you because you're at home watching Girlfriends' Guide to Divorce instead of angry about your new, incredibly delicious man.

More: 7 Ways to help your children during your divorce

Do exercise extra caution in how you find your dates as well as who you date.

While it's become the norm today to "meet" on Tinder, Match and other online dating sites, be careful what you post on these sites, especially if you have kids. First, dating sites, like sites such as Facebook, can be a hot bed of juicy evidence that your spouse can use against you in court. I was involved in a custody case where the wife posted an innocent photo of herself and her two children, and the husband's attorney introduced it into evidence to show that the wife exercised bad parental judgment by posting a photograph of the children on a dating site. Second, you don't want to risk your husband getting triggered by seeing your online profile.

Instead, consider dating the old-fashioned way and date people you meet through real-world connections like work, family, friends, hobbies and place of worship. You'll have more and hopefully accurate information of who they are as opposed to their often fantasy-filled online profile. You are in a particularly vulnerable place and should optimize your odds that the person you date is solid and responsible.

Recognize that a person with whom you establish a relationship may become involuntarily entangled in the divorce proceedings, especially if your spouse is vindictive and would enjoy taking a deposition of your new mate to watch him squirm while being videotaped. The bottom line: Their issues (e.g., drug/alcohol abuse, criminal history) can reflect on you. So tread lightly and select with care. This is especially true if you have children and custody matters are being decided.

Do think twice about moving in together.

Let's say that despite my and your attorney's good advice, you think you've found Mr. Right and want to start living together. Consider that this may impact the level of spousal or child support you receive in your divorce settlement since you are now sharing living expenses with someone. Take a long-range view and don't risk your financial future on a relationship that may turn out not to have a future. Also, living with Mr. Right can impact custody issues depending on who he is.

Dating don'ts during divorce

Don't put it in writing.

If you don't want something read in open court, avoid writing it to the person or people you are seeing — that means email, text (especially sexting) or paper. A physical or digital paper trail can be used as evidence to question the propriety of the relationship and other issues that can have a bearing on property, support or child custody decisions.

Don’t be seen having too much fun.

Being discreet about your dating extends to social media. Posting photos or videos of you and your date out at clubs, wining and dining, or vacationing can have consequences. If you have children, these posts can be used to question the amount of time you are spending away from them — and in some cases, your parental fitness. They can also raise questions about how you are spending your money and about your lifestyle.

Don't make big decisions about a new relationship.

The harsh reality is that the first relationship (also known as the rebound relationship) that people have after separation may have little chance of becoming long-term or leading to marriage, especially if you are still hurting from the demise of your relationship with your ex. While you're going through the stress and uncertainty of divorce, the attention and affection your potential new boyfriend shows you can raise your self-esteem and provide a welcome distraction from your problems.

In fairness to yourself and the other person, you should wait to start your next serious relationship until you've identified and sorted out the issues that caused your marriage to end, resolved the issues in your divorce, spent some time on your own and feel that you are truly healed. On the other hand, a girl just has to have fun, so go out with friends, both female and male, and have a blast. A very cold and dirty martini (Las Vegas Style) never hurt anyone!

More: I was able to divorce my abusive husband by opening a secret bank account

Beyoncé's Lemonade was about so much more than Jay Z cheating on her

0
0

Five minutes into the release of Beyoncé’s much-anticipated Lemonade, social media started blowing up about how we were watching a divorce happen in real time.

More: Beyoncé & Solange: Instagram clues to the Jay Z fight fallout

And yes, the narrative nominally uniting the visual album was the fact that Jay Z cheated on Beyoncé. Each song was introduced with an emotional theme that outlined the process Beyoncé went through as she learned about her husband’s infidelity. In strictly celebrity-gossip terms, this implicit confirmation of a long-standing rumor ignited by Solange and Jay Z’s famous elevator fight is itself shocking and perversely fascinating. What was he thinking? Will they get divorced? Who is Becky with the good hair?

Lemonade
Image: Giphy

But the impeccably shot and edited film spent very little time on Jay Z, and much more on the complexities of Beyoncé’s life, on the experiences of black women, and on the ways in which Jay Z's cheating related to the narratives of other women Beyoncé knows.

More: How Beyoncé's definition of feminism is changing the game in Hollywood

The film was about performing womanhood — how we wear our lipstick like our disappointment, how black women mourn the deaths of young black men, how sometimes we see our fathers in our partners. It recognized the pain our mothers feel, the alchemy performed by our grandmothers, who spin gold out of pain like they turn lemons into lemonade.

Lines from the interludes, many coming from Somali-British poet Warsan Shire, rang true in a way that was simultaneously saddening and relieving. I did not know whether to relish the validation I felt as Beyoncé and Warsan told me that they, too, had “tried to change, tried to be softer, prettier” for someone they loved, or to mourn the realization that these experiences are not mine alone.

Beyonce Leading
Image: Giphy

And, in many ways, Beyoncé was sharing narratives that are not mine — those of black womanhood, of life in New Orleans, of mourning the loss of a loved one who died too young. Her album was made to resonate with, to support and affirm, people who know these truths through lived experience, and so its many layers will be unearthed in ways that I do not know.

More: Beyoncé is right: Hating police brutality doesn't mean you hate cops

I can say that I was brought to tears over and over, and I know that, in ways I cannot even anticipate yet, I will be moved again. Merely an hour after watching Lemonade for the first time, it is impossible to know how I will turn to Beyoncé’s words on beauty, on loss, on vulnerability in the future.

Lemonade Beyonce
Image: Giphy

But I do know that tonight I saw a new Beyoncé — one who, more than ever, is at once, angry and proud, who knows she is beautiful, but who is also hurt and uncertain, who looks to her mother for guidance but also sees the flaws in her heroes. I know that Beyoncé has yearned for perfection but has felt she cannot have it, and I can only hope that I will learn from her pain as I aspire to her wisdom.


You can relax, Beyhive — Beyoncé & Jay Z are still going strong

0
0

Fans got a window into Beyoncé and Jay Z's relationship with Lemonade. We learned that Jay Z likely cheated on his wife. We learned that Beyoncé is trying to forgive him. Thanks to fans who should have careers as detectives, we learned that he could have cheated with Rachel Roy or Rita Ora. In the wake of all this, what happens next for their marriage?

A source "close to the couple" gave his or her take to People, and surprise, surprise, Jay Z and Beyoncé are staying together and are better than ever.

More: Beyoncé's Lemonade is about so much more than Jay Z cheating on her

"They definitely went through a rough patch a couple years ago, but they came out stronger in the end," said the source. Citing the couple's vow renewal in fall 2014, the source says, "I think they almost wanted to prove to everyone that they wouldn't break up."

More: Stop focusing on Beyoncé's marriage — Lemonade has bigger lessons to offer

That goodwill has lasted through today, as Jay Z continues to be "very supportive of Beyoncé." (Uh, that's the least he can do.) The source claims that Jay Z was his wife's biggest fan during her Super Bowl halftime show performance. The two seemed coupley after the show. "They were very affectionate all weekend and he helped her celebrate after her big performance."

Now that Lemonade is out and the world has its eyes on the couple, will they be able to handle the pressure? We hope so, at least for Beyoncé's sake.

More: Did Jay Z really cheat on Beyoncé, or is Lemonade just a piece of art?

Burger King's Chicken Fries Rings are the work of a mad genius

0
0

Our love for fried chicken is infinite, so Burger King's new circular Chicken Fries Rings are symbolically on point. There is no beginning, there is no end... just a ring of tasty, fried, white meat chicken. And a whole lot of surface area to help continue our addiction to basically any dip that goes with fried chicken.

More: 20 outrageously hipster foods at Coachella that make us secretly wish we were going

burger king chicken fries rings

burger king chicken fries rings

Chicken Fries have been wildly popular at the chain and were added to the permanent menu last March. BK's also introduced a couple of spicy versions, including Fiery Chicken Fries and Buffalo Chicken Fries.

But making the Chicken Fries into rings is a totally ingenious move. Other chains have chicken fingers that are close in shape to the original Chicken Fries, but chicken rings? I've literally never seen that at another restaurant. And my mouth is watering.

More: 21 times fried chicken had us drooling

The smartest part of the strategy is that Burger King is taking a food and flavor profile it already knows people love, then reshaping it. There's a fun novelty to the new item, but people won't be hesitant about trying it, because they already know exactly what it tastes like. The fun is in the shape and the dipping factor — these babies look like they can handle a lot more ranch than their gangly predecessors can.

The Chicken Fries Rings will be available throughout North America beginning Monday, May 2. A six-piece order will go for $2.89 — not a bad deal for some whimsical fried chicken.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Food Porn Friday: 20 times french fries literally gave us life
Image: staarlife/Instagram

I get it, you hate the Kardashians, but you have no reason to hate Kendall Jenner

0
0

The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is a big deal. The president hosts a group of important media personnel to celebrate with the political elite without the normal tension that exists between the two groups. This year Kendall Jenner will be in attendance, and I really don’t want to hear about anyone who has a problem with it.

Before you start to argue, I know what you’re going to say. The Kardashians and Jenners are talentless, slutty girls desperate for attention.

Except, they’re not.

More: Kendall Jenner explains why being a Kardashian isn't all that great

They’re businesswomen who created an empire out of nothing. Kourtney, Kim, Khloé and Kylie have all been in committed relationships for the majority of the past few years (at least). And OK, they like to pose naked and most of the time that gives them a lot of attention that they probably enjoy. If I looked like any of them, I’d live in a house made of mirrors and never wear clothes. But that’s neither here nor there.

What I think is important to remember is that Jenner doesn’t deserve any of these labels. She’s worked her butt off establishing a successful modeling career, tries to avoid any extra attention and doesn’t act out in any way. Also, the POTUS wants her to join him at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. None of us have ever been invited to that and we’ve been on our best behavior.

More: Stop rolling your eyes at Kylie Jenner — she actually had a tough childhood

The thing that bothers me most about the Kardashian hate train is that it lumps an entire family of individuals together without giving anyone a chance. You disagree with one action made by one family member and suddenly they’re all terrible people. Where’s the compassion? Where’s the understanding? Why are we always so quick to lump people into categories based on something they can’t change, like the family they were born into?

More: Kendall Jenner's server feud continues, she won't be bullied

I’m not saying they’re perfect. I’m not even saying that Jenner should definitely be included at the White House Correspondents' Dinner. All I’m saying is we need to ease up on the unfounded hate.

I didn't get a storybook proposal, and that's OK

0
0

My now-husband had the perfect plan: It was spring break, we were headed to Annapolis for dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, and after that he would ask me to take a walk along the edge of the docks, where, next to the sailboats illuminated by the streetlights, he would drop to one knee on the bricks and ask for my hand in marriage. Perhaps a few passersby would see us, even take a picture or two, maybe clap. Certainly there would be a small flurry of congratulations thrown our way, as well-meaning strangers would ask me to show them my new diamond ring. We'd be the focus of some water cooler stories the next morning, even.

Except, instead of being the momentary envy of passersby, I ignored my then-boyfriend's request to keep our dinner for just the two of us and invited my whole family along. By the time they all took off, I told him I was tired and could we just drive home. He tucked the ring back in his jacket pocket and indulged me, deciding he would go with an alternate plan the following week.

More: Getting a text message proposal doesn't make it any less romantic

During that week since I wasn’t working, I called my best friend and met her for coffee to discuss the state of my relationship. Since the man and I had been dating for nearly three years and showed no sign of any progress, I wondered if it wasn’t time to cut my losses. In spite of this having been my longest and healthiest relationship, I remained pragmatic: I was 27 years old and should consider that our time together had run its course. Sure, I would have a rough go of it, but it was time to break up with him if something didn’t happen soon. Yet again, I assumed, I was responsible for making the plan, since no one else was going to do it for me.

The following Monday night, my love drove us to a lovely dinner where he ordered wine and dessert. When we got back to his house, he invited me to take a walk around the lake nearby. It was a beautiful, clear night, the stars were shining, and I'm assuming the moonlight was reflecting majestically off the water.

I'm assuming it was, because I was too lazy to get off the couch. He tried to convince me, he gave it his best shot, but I sat there like an amorphous lump of clay, perhaps having consumed one too many bites of flourless chocolate cake at our romantic dinner.

More: 6 things that don't actually matter in a marriage proposal

He is not a planner, so the fact that he has attempted to propose to me in a planned and romantic fashion not once, but twice, and still remained unengaged, meant he would no longer be attempting any sort of plan.

Which is when it happened.

There, in the basement, with the low-hanging ceilings and the ugly navy blue couch, in front of the cheap particle board coffee table, my darling man picked up the remote, turned off the episode of Jeopardy I was yelling the answers to, got down on one knee and inquired, "Will you marry me?"

As the small, velvet box creaked open, so did my realization of all he had been attempting earlier in the evening. Which is why instead of immediately saying yes, I batted the ring out of his hand like I was swatting a bee out the front door.

As we both scrambled around on the floor for the ring, I launched into an endless loop of "Yes" and "I'm so sorry, I had no idea." Of course I would marry him, I loved him and wanted to spend the rest of my life with him. But I couldn't believe I'd gone and bungled the entire operation.

Of course, at that moment, I had no idea about the first attempt, but when that story eventually spilled out, not only was I kicking myself for my laziness which ruined the lake proposal, but I had to add in my uncanny ability to overtake his plans. My unwillingness to let him have his way just that once had robbed me of what would have been a beautiful proposal. I had no one to blame but myself.

This extremely memorable incident sparked a change in me. It taught me that not only was it OK to trust my husband-to-be, but that it might even prove beneficial to do so. If I loved him enough to marry him, certainly I should throw a little trust his way.

More: All hail the couple who survived 24 hours handcuffed together

My proposal was messy. It was disappointing. Cringeworthy, even. But what has followed in the 13 years since has been the coming together of two imperfect people, joining in marriage, who have forged a very real life together. We have moved forward together, created four children together and continue to raise them in the best way we know how. Sometimes it is messy. Oftentimes disappointing. And yes, there are cringeworthy moments. But as we grow, the good continues to outweigh the dreck. The start may have been near-disastrous, but what has grown from that comedy of errors on an old couch in a sad basement is more beautiful than any viral video-worthy proposal in existence.

Why I lied to my daughter about my first kiss

0
0

Marsha was talking to Jan about her first kiss. Marsha, Marsha, Marsha. That’s all my 7-year-old daughter wants to talk about ever since I introduced her to the hilarious world of The Brady Bunch reruns. But for one brief moment, she took a break from talking about Marsha’s awesome outfits to ask me a question that took me completely off guard.

“Mommy, when was your first kiss?”

I always swore I would be honest with my children. Well, I swore that before I actually had children. Once I had them, I soon learned that there was a time and place for full honesty. Telling my 4-year-old that I secretly hid the eggs around the house instead of the Easter Bunny is not the time for honesty.

But what about kissing?

Did I really want to tell her that I was only 12 when a boy first put his tongue in my mouth?

More: 'Where the Wild Things Are' just came to life in a mom's incredible photo series

I can remember that first kiss and immediately feel the anxiety all over again. It was a party at Heather Somebody’s house (because who remembers last names of kids you went to middle school with?) and it was one of the first co-ed parties of seventh grade. A boy named David swiped a Sprite bottle, and we all followed him to a shed in the backyard. I didn’t want to go, but I was the only one at the party left standing in the living room after they all starting walking outside.

A serious game of spin the bottle occurred. Poor Nathaniel, he had no idea what he was in for when it landed on me. He took my hand, and we went behind the bikes and lawnmower (I can’t make this stuff up) and then we just looked at each other for what seemed like an hour. He then uttered the most romantic words a teenager could ever hear: “Uhm… they are going to, like, totally know if we don’t kiss?”

Oh. I didn’t realize that. I also didn’t realize that tongue was involved in kissing, so when he leaned in and started to put his tongue in my mouth, I screeched and yelled, “What did you just put in my mouth?” and ran out of the shed.

I was the girl who ran into the house, called her mom and told her to pick me up immediately.

But now, 25 years later, my 7-year-old daughter was asking me about that day. And I had a choice. Did I tell the truth, or did I lie in hopes that she wouldn’t want to follow in my footsteps?

More: 5 things I’m scared to tell my daughter about her period

I chose the latter. I told her about my second kiss. The one when I was in high school and kissed someone that meant something to me. The one that I chose all on my own.

And you know what? I don’t regret it.

I went to that shed in seventh grade because of peer pressure, because everyone was pushing me to do it. I let them convince me to do something I knew in my gut I wasn't ready to do.

I have no doubt that will happen to my daughter at some point in her life. Yes, I could have told her the first kiss story and found a way to use it as an example of what not to do. But I felt like this was an opportunity to teach her something bigger than that. To teach her how to wait for what really matters in life. To not let anyone push you into something because you are afraid you won't be cool or won't fit in.

If I could instill just a bit more confidence in her than I had in myself back then, heck, I’m going to take that opportunity. I want her to stand up for herself in a way I didn’t.

And maybe I did tell a little white lie, but considering she still believes a little fairy comes and steals her teeth at night, aren’t we all lying to keep some sort of naïve innocence alive?

More: If you can't do 'Take Your Kids to Work Day' Netflix has your back

As for her response to it all, I believe she summed it up perfectly. “I think I’ll just become a nun.”

Sounds like a great plan to me, girl.

Shia LaBeouf caused a poor, innocent man to get sucker-punched in the face

0
0

There's a criminal on the loose in New York City, and apparently he's on the hunt for Shia LaBeouf. One man just got punched simply for resembling the star. Shia, wherever you are, stay far away from NYC.

Mario Licato told the story to Gothamist. "I was walking up the [subway] stairs," he remembers. "I had my head down — there were people in front of me — just to make sure I wasn't going to fall." That's when the LaBeouf hater struck.

More: Shia LaBeouf and Mia Goth may have some pretty huge relationship news

"I didn't even see the guy," Licato continued. "I just see his fist coming towards me. It knocked me, and while I was falling down the stairs, all I hear was, 'This is because you look exactly like Shia LaBeouf!'" The hit was strong enough to knock him unconscious, send him backwards down the F train stairs and break his glasses.

According to a couple who also witnessed the incident, the attacker was a mid-20s "frat boy" of 6-foot to 6-foot-3. Licato doesn't believe he knows him, but he swears the attack was simply because he looks like LaBeouf.

"I was so confused," he said. "I was even more confused because I got up and I was like, am I crazy or did I hear him say, 'This is because you look like Shia LaBeouf?' And [the couple] were like, 'Nope. That's exactly what he said as he was running away from you.'"

More: Thank you, Megan Fox, for confirming the baby daddy is not Shia LaBeouf

Licato has been told many times that he looks like LaBeouf, even getting stopped by fans "at least 10 times." But he was left wondering — what exactly did the star do to make this man hate him so much?

"What did Shia LaBeouf do to him that he punched somebody that looks like him?" he asked. "He must have did something so mean. Did he steal his girlfriend? Did he just see his last performance art piece?"

More: Piers Morgan slams Shia LaBeouf for #IAMSORRY rape claims

Sorry, Zac Efron, but your cooking show sounds like a bad idea

0
0

Did you know Zac Efron was a culinary maestro? Neither did we. But apparently he has hoodwinked the execs at MTV into thinking he is, because they have given him his own cooking show. Hey, as long as he keeps his shirt off, whatevs.

In a statement from the network, it has been announced that Efron will use his experience as "an actor, traveller and food lover" to "explore how food has moved to the center of millennial culture."

More: 7 things to know about Zac Efron's super-hot younger brother

"The project will look beyond the extravagant and obscure in food to explore the artistry, storytelling and journeys in what we eat, and the issues and experiences surrounding what we find on our plates," the statement, released during MTV's upfront presentations, reads.

MTV Network president Sean Atkins told Mashable that Efron plans to take a different approach from other food shows.

"It's not necessarily about the cuisine — like, ‘oh, I ate pig guts' or ‘wow, this is the best steak I've ever had.' It's more about the cultural impact of food for our audience," he said. "He's really passionate about it. He's so excited about it."

What remains to be seen is if Efron will be shirtless for the majority of the documentary, like he has been in most of his recent work, including the upcoming Baywatch movie.

The new project will be sure to distract Efron from his recent breakup with his girlfriend of two years, Sami Miro.

"It wasn't an easy breakup," a source told E! News. "Distance and work schedules got in the way with their relationship and Zac wanted to focus on his career."

More: Zac Efron and other shockingly short male actors


Amanda Peet writes a self-loathing letter about hating her wrinkles

0
0

Amanda Peet says she absolutely loathes what aging is doing to her appearance, but she refuses to resort to the lengths other Hollywood actresses do to continue to get roles past their 20s.

More: Amanda Peet defends Game of Thrones' controversial rape scene

In this month's Lenny Letter on Lena Dunham's site, Peet admits she is far from comfortable with the aging process, especially since it has been costing her roles.

"It's painfully obvious, but I'm still ashamed to admit this: I care about my looks. How else can I explain my trainer, stylist and Barney's card? I've bleached my teeth, dyed my hair, peeled and lasered my face, and tried a slew of age-defying creams," Peet wrote. "More than once, I've asked the director of photography on a show to soften my laugh lines. Nothing about this suggests I'm aging gracefully.

"Recently, I was told I was ineligible for a movie because I wasn't 'current enough,'" she revealed. "I'm constantly pushed out by younger talent, like Alicia Vikander. You think, 'Wait, she's 27 and a gorgeous movie star, and you're 44 and a low-tier, TV-mom-type; you're not in the same ballpark.' But she is squeezing me out. She's in the hot center and I'm on the remote perimeter. The train has left the station and I'm one of those moronic stragglers running alongside with her purse caught in the door. Everyone's looking at me, like, 'Let go, you bullheaded old hag! There's no room for you.'"

But Peet refuses to resort to Botox or fillers or, God forbid, a facelift, because she doesn't want her daughters to resent her for it.

More: 10 celebrities who have aged well

"Another frightening scenario is that one or both of my daughters will do as I did in my youth: go to college, take Feminist Texts and Theory and stop shaving their legs and armpits," she wrote. "As hard-core feminists, they'll write me off. I'll cry, Why aren't you coming home for Thanksgiving? And they'll be like, 'You're nothing but a foot soldier for the beauty industrial complex.'"

But Peet says it doesn't matter anyway, because no matter what we do, eventually we will all fall apart.

"Botox or no Botox, we shouldn't feel bitter, because we're ALL going to look like shit. Every last one of us."

She does have a point.

More: Ashley Judd says STFU about her face, please

Olympic champ Michael Phelps reveals how his DUIs saved his life

0
0

Michael Phelps was on top of the world after his record-breaking performance at the 2008 Summer Olympics, but serious legal issues brought him back to earth hard and fast — and nearly caused him to take his life.

In an upcoming interview, Phelps reveals that after his two DUIs tarnished his public image, his mom feared he would kill himself — and so did he.

"I think my mom was happy that I was alive because I think she saw the sort of the path that I was going down," he told Matt Lauer in the interview, set to air on the Today show on Wednesday, April 27.

"I think a lot of people close to me saw it. And I was going fast. Fast. Honestly, at one point I felt like I didn't want to see another day."

Phelps saw many personal controversies during his swimming career. His first DUI came in 2004, when he was sentenced to 18 months' probation and ordered to speak to high school students about drinking and driving.

In 2009, a year after winning a record-breaking eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics, a photo showing Phelps taking a hit off a bong was sold to tabloids, costing him an extremely lucrative contract with Kellogg's as well as earning him a three-month suspension from USA Swimming. Phelps admitted the photo was real, calling his actions inappropriate.

Five years later, in 2014, Phelps faced another DUI charge. As a result, he was suspended from all swim competitions for six months, and was not allowed to compete at the 2015 World Aquatics Championships.

Soon after his second arrest, Phelps apologized on Twitter to his fans and announced his decision to head to rehab. His agency confirmed his plans, stating, "While this has been an extremely difficult time for him, he is encouraged that this comprehensive program will help him focus on all of his life experiences and identify areas of need for long-term personal growth and development. Michael takes this matter seriously and intends to share his learning experiences with others in the future."

Phelps is back on track now, and most recently won three titles at the December 2015 Winter Nationals. He is expecting his first child with fiancée Nicole Johnson.

People cheat all the time and that's not going to change

0
0

I'll never drink another glass of lemonade again, mainly because I'm over trying to decode what Beyoncé’s performance was all about. It has led to all kinds of theories and think-pieces, many around one topic: cheating. And it's getting old.

“How could Jay Z do such a thing?” my friends posted on their Facebook walls. “Who the hell are those other bitches pulling one over on Bey?” “It’s Beyoncé, you don’t cheat on Beyoncé!”

I feel like high schoolers will soon ditch their copies of The Scarlet Letter and spend the rest of their English class analyzing Lemonade’s lyrics.

More: Beyoncé's Lemonade is about so much more than Jay Z cheating on her

Society gets so riled up when it comes to cheaters, especially when they interfere in the storybook romances of celebrity couples. In a perfect world, the person we choose to be with would stay loyal and true to us forever. There’d be no need for indiscretion because we’d fill the voids they don’t get otherwise.

But time and time again, I watch relationships fall apart because of cheating. I'm beginning to think maybe it’s just time to accept the fact that people cheat and that it’s not going to change.

Infidelity is not some new relationship issue; it’s been happening since the dawn of time. I remember learning in my anthropology class that marriage used to be more of a financial transaction between families, not based on if two people were in love. Back in those days, cheating on your spouse was pretty much a given.

So why are we on this crusade to somehow eradicate cheating? Why can’t we accept that different people fill different needs and that the causes of cheating are deeper than just a desire to have sex with someone else? We need to look past the idea that cheating is explicitly about having sex with someone else and focus more on why it keeps happening. If it’s so awful and disgusting, why do people keep doing it?

More: That dreaded gut feeling your sig-o is cheating — how to deal

One of the best human qualities we possess is our power to change over time. Our emotions are included in that. New experiences make us reevaluate life and what we want from it. We might meet someone else who completely changes our point of view, making us feel reinvigorated. And that’s where things get complicated.

It’s easy to say, “Well then just get a divorce!” Talk to anyone going through a divorce, however, and they’ll tell you it’s no quick process. I’ve watched first-hand the emotional push and pull that sometimes prevents my married friends from cutting the relationship cord. Starting from scratch is really difficult.

I’m not condoning cheating. Respect is something every relationship is entitled to, and cheating is a definite sign of disrespect. But the best way to combat cheating is to acknowledge it exists and understand why it happens in the first place. We’re so quick to say, “Cheating is bad!” but we’ve never really given a reason why, other than some Bible verses.

More: Our marriage is better because we fight like cats and dogs

Beyoncé projects a personality that is beautiful, strong, intelligent, successful, talented and kind. Unless she’s secretly a horrible person, if Jay Z cheated on her like her song lyrics suggest, it wasn’t because she did anything wrong. You could do everything your partner asks and they could still find some reason to feel unfulfilled. Then what?

We feel we’re not vulnerable to cheating, which is why it’s so devastating when it happens to us. But no matter how perfect we think we are for someone else, the chance that they could cheat on us is certainly there. We might not be able to prevent it, but maybe with some more clarity, we can get to a less painful aftermath.

Expert hacks for plane travel with kids (VIDEO)

Azealia Banks spews ignorant comments at Beyoncé

0
0

Azealia Banks loves sharing her opinion with everyone no matter what the topic is, but she especially loves to talk when another female performer makes headlines. It was only a matter of time before she gave us her take on Beyoncé and Lemonade. And, as expected, her opinion is borderline offensive to all women, but definitely to Beyoncé.

More: Beyoncé fans need to remember Jay Z was the one who cheated

Among her many insults, Banks called Beyoncé's behavior the “antithesis of what feminism is” and that taking Jay Z back after his affair isn’t “strength that’s stupidity.” She also went on to complain about how Beyoncé is hurting black women everywhere with her “heartbroken black female” narrative.

By the way, this was all after posting about how Lemonade was “exactly what pop culture needed” on Sunday during the HBO premiere. Banks is a woman of many opinions.

More: Did Jay Z really cheat on Beyoncé or is Lemonade just a piece of art?

Beyoncé is surely going to get some criticism for her album, and some of it may be justified, but all of Banks’ tweets were unjustified and just plain wrong.

Banks is trying to convince her followers that choosing forgiveness and commitment when things get difficult sends the wrong message. It tells people to quit because that’s what society says rather than formulate and act upon their own decisions. She also has a terrible grasp of what feminism is, because a belief that men and women should be equal has nothing to do with what a wife decides to do when her husband cheats on her.

More: Beyoncé's marriage isn't over, her momma says it's still perfect

Beyoncé so far hasn’t commented on any of the media attention she and Lemonade have gotten, and hopefully her first comments aren’t wasted on Banks’ ignorant hate spree on Twitter. But if she does happen to put Banks in her place, I hope it’s in another amazing song.

What do you think about Beyoncé’s confessions on Lemonade? Are they a sign of strength?

Viewing all 33701 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images