Congratulations to Seven Year Switch stars Ryan and Cassie who have welcomed a little baby girl.
Little Mena was born at 5:44pm on Tuesday this week with the couple sharing the news on Instagram.
“Mena made quite the entrance and spent a short time in special care, keeping in trend with her siblings and scared her Mumma and Dadda, however is doing extremely well and we hope to have her home shortly!” the post read.
“Daddy was amazing and Mumma is doing great!”
Also pictured in photo is the couple’s 18-month-old daughter Emmerson and Cassie’s nine-year-old Ramani from a previous relationship.
The couple announced they were expecting their fourth child in May after fans speculated about Cassie’s ‘baby bump’ throughout the series.
Cassie explained she wanted to keep the news quiet due to the “hardships” they’ve already experienced, including losing their unborn son at 37 weeks.
Two people have sadly died after tidal waves flooded South Bali.
The two tourists, from Hong Kong and Singapore, died after they were dragged out to sea at Padang Galak Beach in Sanur, local newspaper Tribun Bali reported.
The tidal waves have left popular coastal restaurant The Rock Bar at Ayana Resort deserted and damaged while popular Australian destination, Ku De Ta, was pounded with water, WA Today reports.
WATCH: Rough surf hits Ku De Ta
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The surf has been off-limits due to the dangerous conditions.
Earlier this month, a woman from Perth was one of five people swept out to sea and killed while she was on her honeymoon.
Nearly 1300 people were also forced to flee Java’s Lumajang and Pekalongan cities in recent days with tidal waves forecast.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge just delighted racegoers with their first ever appearance together at the Royal Ascot races
And Kate was certainly thrilled to be there, several times fighting to contain her excitement when her horses were winning!
Despite the event being a major draw card for the royal family, surprisingly the young parents have never been able to both fit the event into their busy schedule before today.
But despite her prior absences,the 34-year-old Duchess more than made up for it with a fabulous, understated outfit.
Duchess Catherine shone in understated Dolce and Gabbana.
Despite royal protocol, Kate couldn’t help getting rather excited when her horses were on the track!
Draped in a delicate lace number from Dolce and Gabbana, the dreamy Duchess topped off her look with a woven gold hat by Jane Taylor, featuring a statement rose and feathers.
William, 33, was similarly dapper and decked out in a very smart suit, complete with a swanky top hat.
William cut a fine figure with his powder-blue waistcoat.
Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla also made an appearance despite the wet weather.
All royals in attendance, including Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla and Princess Anne, sported badges with their names printed on them… you know, in case we forgot who they were.
Queen Elizabeth also looked thrilled to be attending the festivities alongside Prince Philip, offsetting her yellow outfit from day one with a serene pink ensemble on the second day.
The Queen looked pretty in pink next to her husband Prince Philip.
Even Princess Mary and Countess Sophie were seen cheering on their horses!
Princess Mary also made an appearance looking like a tangerine dream alongside her royal husband Prince Frederik.
Onlookers who saw Kate and Mary chatting several times through the day could have sworn the two were sisters.
The Princess and the Duchess couldn’t tear their eyes from the track!
Prince Frederik looked dreamy as ever in his tails and top hat, next to his wife Mary.
They both sported their long, brunette locks in similar low-down buns and donned similar attire, though in different colours.
Princess Mary’s loving husband Prince Frederik looked charming and dapper in a top hat and tails with pintripe trousers.
See why Royal Ascot means so much to Queen Elizabeth. Post continues…
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Bookmakers who were clued in to the Duchess’s Ascot debut had been taking bets on the colour of Catherine’s hat.
Being that they had 2/1 odds that she’d be sporting beige or cream, they were on the money!
The body of a two-year-old boy has been recovered at a Disney resort after he was snatched by an alligator.
Orange County Sherriff Jerry Demings identified the boy as two-year-old Lane Graves of Nebraska.
Tragically, his body was found in the water around 3:30pm local time after officials had been searching the Seven Seas Lagoon in Orlando, Florida for over 15 hours.
Little Lane’s body was found “completely intact,” near the attack site, leading authorities to believe he was drowned by the alligator.
Lane and his family were at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for a movie night when he was dragged in the water around 9pm.
His father tried to rescue him however, he was unsuccessful.
Prince William has long been known for pushing the boundaries of royal protocol, but he’s just made history with his latest move.
The Duke of Cambridge is the newest cover star of Attitude magazine, an LGBT lifestyle publication.
It marks the first time a royal has ever appeared on the cover of a gay magazine.
The photo chosen for the cover features the young prince in a crisp, open-necked white shirt, laughing joyfully.
The Prince looked casual and relaxed in his exclusive cover shoot.
In the interview that accompanied the shoot, Wills took aim at homophobic bullies.
“No one should be bullied for their sexuality,” he said, before urging anyone facing hardship over their sexuality to not be afraid to seek help.
See William in action at the landmark shoot and interview. Post continues.
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The handsome Prince took full advantage of the opportunity to make a real difference, and also met with several members of the LGBT community to discuss homophobia and bullying.
He talked with them about their experiences with self-esteem and suicidal thoughts, and even spoke about a young man who had ended his own life because of his sexuality.
William took the time to write a message to the deceased young man in a condolence book.
Nine people from the LGBT community told Prince William all about the hardships they faced because of their sexuality.
“The young gay, lesbian and transgender individuals I met through Attitude are truly brave to speak out and to give hope to people who are going through terrible bullying right now,” the father of one said.
“What I would say to any young person reading this who’s being bullied for their sexuality: don’t put up with it.
“You should be proud of the person you are and you have nothing to be ashamed of.”
William and Catherine payed their respects to the victims of the Orlando shooting in a gay nightclub in the US.
The editor of Attitude, Matthew Todd was thrilled the Prince took time out of his schedule to listen to members of the LGBT community.
“I am very happy that the future King of The United Kingdom agrees this must stop and I would urge parents in particular to raise their voices in their communities to ensure that every school protects – really protects – all children,” he said.
We all thought it was Kris Jenner’s stage mum prowess that thrust the Kardashians into the spotlight, but another company is saying they had a big hand in it, and they want money.
The Agency for the Performing Arts, who represent huge brands such as Marriott hotels and Lamborghini, are claiming they had a verbal agreement back in 2009 with many members of the clan… an agreement they say the family has broken, according to TMZ.
The APA says the Kardashians agreed to have the group manage endorsement deals and help secure lucrative deals to net the family big bucks and increase their fame.
The deal was to promote Kim, Khloe, Kourtney, Kylie and Kendall in exchange for a 15 per cent cut of the dough, says TMZ.
The famous brood reportedly cut ties with the agency without paying them money owed.
The verbal agreement even included Kim, whose sponsorship deals alone would be worth millions.
Well now the Kardashians have made millions upon millions from deals the agency allegedly set up, and they want their money pronto.
Speaking of lucrative deals… check out Khloe behind the scenes of her Harper’s Bazaar shoot! Post contines below.
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Kris Jenner, pictured here with Kendall, has always claimed she pushed the family to fame…
The lawsuit apparently claims the Kardashians pulled the plug on the deal in March 2015, and the APA claims they’re owed a massive slice of the pie as far as endorsement deals are concerned.
We don’t think Kris Jenner, who sees herself as the wheeling and dealing “momager” of the family would take too kindly to someone taking credit for what she says is her job within the brood!
Looking for the ultimate family weekend away? Look no further than the nation’s capital.
I never thought I’d be saying this, but Canberra has become cool. The past five years have seen a total transformation of the nation’s capital, making it the perfect destination for a fun weekend away with young kids – and what’s more, there’s enough great food, wine and accommodation options for even the most discerning parent.
Here are five of the best things to do with little kids, plus our top tips on where to stay, eat and drink.
The national arboretum’s pod playground.
NATIONAL ARBORETUM PLAYGROUND
Got an early riser on your hands? This spectacular playground is the answer to all your sleep-deprived dreams! Open from 6am in summer and 7am in winter (365 days a year!), the playground is suitable for all ages and is exciting enough to keep everyone from toddlers to 12-year-olds engaged. There is easy parking and an onsite café open 9am-4pm.
Where: Forest Drive, off Tuggeranong Parkway, Weston Creek
The famous National Science and Technology Centre isn’t just a mecca for primary school-aged children – it’s also heaven for under-6s. Mini-Q, located on the ground floor, is Questacon’s dedicated toddler and pre-schooler zone, where their imaginations (and little legs) can run wild. The water play zone is a huge hit, especially with under-twos, while bigger children will love the space gallery. There is even an area for non-mobile babies, keeping them safe and entertained while their older siblings go nuts. Be sure to book your session at the ticket desk during busy times or you may end up disappointed.
The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House’s kid’s area
OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE
The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House sounds incredibly boring, but hidden within is one of the best kid’s play areas anywhere in the country. There are amazing historical dress-ups, interactive exhibits and a huge area packed full of toys, books, cosy places to curl up and open areas to run and play. And all for a seriously bargain price.
Another great outdoor option for active and wildlife-loving little ones, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve boasts more than 20 marked walking trails, from 15-minutes strolls to all-day treks. The site is also home to a large population of possoms, wombats, echidnas, emus, platypuses and a wide range of birds and reptiles.
Get out in the fresh air and cycle off some of those freakshakes while taking in some of Canberra’s most beautiful scenery on a relaxing bike ride around Lake Burley Griffin. Damn Fine Bike Hire offers every combination of family bike package imaginable, from pedal cars to bike trailers that securely carry up to two babies or children. If it’s winter, make sure you dress the little ones warmly because while you’ll be working up a sweat, they’ll be quite literally chilling in the back.
Where: 2 Barrine Drive, Acton
Opening hours: 9am-4pm, Wednesday-Sunday
Cost: Adult: $25 for two hours, Child: $15 for two hours, Baby seat or trailer $15 flat rate
There is no better place to stay in Canberra with kids than Kingston’s East Hotel. With its stylish design and upmarket feel and incredible kid-friendly accommodation options it is a paradise for parents and children alike. The one-bedroom East apartment is perfect for those with little kids. It has a full kitchen, large spacious lounge and balcony with great district views and a separate bedroom, so you don’t have to sit in silence in the dark once your poppets are in bed. Cots, trundle beds and kid-friendly crockery and cutlery are provided free of charge and children will love the extra special touches, like the selection of toys and books placed in each room before arrival. The room service menu – provided by the hotel’s Italian wine bar Joe’s – is exceptional (try the Wagyu lasagna!) and breakfasts at bookshop/café Muse are as good as you’d find anywhere in Sydney or Melbourne. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and welcoming, there is free candy in the lobby and the location is excellent – close to all the wining and dining trendy Kingston and Manuka have to offer.
Me and Mrs Jones: A big, bustling and trendy cafe with great coffee, delicious breakfast and enough ambient noise to drown out the tablet playing Peppa Pig.
Penny University: A smaller cafe with exceptional food and brilliant coffee (double shots are standard, hallelujah) and a good outdoor seating area for noisy little ones.
Silo Bakery + Cafe: Some of the best pies, pastries and sausages rolls in the territory are served here, alongside a selection of delectable tarts and desserts.
Walt & Burley: A welcoming and child-friendly pub/bar in the trendy Kingston Foreshore area. A good range of well-priced children’s meals and hearty adult fare make this place a hit.
When it comes to bloating, it’s not all about the foods you have to avoid.
Loading up on some of these natural tummy-soothers will reduce cramping and water retention and set you on the path to a happier, healthier stomach.
Fennel seeds: Folk medicine has championed fennel seeds for reducing bloating for years; the little liquorice-y seeds relax gastrointestinal spasms and cramps, allowing gas to pass. Try fennel tea, or go straight to the source and nibble on them directly.
Ginger: Anyone who has suffered from morning sickness will recognise ginger as a natural nausea-soother, but it can also ease bloating. Anti-inflammatory properties calm the gut and relax the muscles of the digestive tract, just like fennel seeds.
Asparagus: Believe it or not, asparagus makes you pee; the vegetable is a natural diuretic, which flushes out excess water and, in the process, reduces bloat. It’s also packed with prebiotics, which aids the growth of “good” bacteria.
Papaya: It’s not just a lip salve! Papaya is bursting with an enzyme called papain that helps to break down protein and ease digestion, as well as anti-inflammatory properties.
Yoghurt: Probiotics are great for gut health and yoghurt is a delicious source of these good bacteria. And, as well as encouraging a happy, productive digestive tract, yoghurt is a great source of protein, setting you up for a happy, productive day! Look for one with “active cultures” for best results.
Oats: Oats can be particularly beneficial to your digestion, making your tummy a lot happier. And, just in time for the cooler winter weather, gives you a great excuse to load up on porridge.
Bananas: Potassium-rich foods like bananas are exactly what you’re looking for when you’re bloated and blah; as well as regulating sodium levels, they contain soluble fibre that can relieve constipation, which could also be contributing to the problem.
Avocados: Since we’re on the topic of potassium, you can also reach for an avo or two to beat the bloat. Like bananas, they prevent water retention and salt-induced bloating. Plus, they’re packed with healthy fats and provide you with slow-burning energy.
Cucumber: Cucumbers do the same thing to your tummy as your under-eye puffiness: reduce swelling. Their healing properties are all down to an anti-oxidant called quercetin, so slice ’em and dice ’em and get them all through a salad.
Mint: As well making a refreshing drink to sip on during your meal, adding fresh mint to your table water can combat bloating and soothe your gut. Or, finish up each night with a cup of soothing chamomile tea; it does the same job.
Most of the time, when it comes to eating youth-boosting foods, we’re talking about what to avoid: steer clear of alcohol (too dehydrating), reduce your sugar intake (could damage your collagen levels), use a little less salt (high sodium levels can lead to water retention and “puffiness”).
But a much more fun (and delicious) way to sip from the fountain of youth is to actually nibble on a couple of nutrient-packed, antioxidant-heavy foods to keep your skin smooth and your brain buzzing.
Avocado: Are you surprised, really? Everyone’s favourite fruit does more than just taste incredible smashed on toast with a poached egg; an excellent source of vitamin E, which does a fantastic job of preventing damage to collagen, avocadoes make for better skin and a happier, healthier heart and eyesight, too.
Brazil nuts: A fresh-faced complexion has a lot to do with skin elasticity, and Brazil nuts are chock-full of a mineral called selenium, which can help to improve just that. As a bonus, selenium can actually reduce your risk of skin cancer while preventing premature aging; grab a 30 g handful each day for a healthy hit.
Red grapes: Resveratrol is a super antioxidant, which, research suggests, helps to activate a protein that has been linked to health and longevity. It’s also believed to aid weight loss, by converting “white fat” into “beige fat” – which, we’re just saying, may mean that a glass of wine a night could help you lose weight.
Pea fritters with avocado goat’s cheese
Salmon: Just like avocado, there doesn’t seem to be anything salmon can’t do, mainly thanks to essential fatty acids called omega-3s. These nifty little health bombs improve the skin’s flexibility and protects against wear and tear; a lack of healthy fats like omega-3s can result in dry skin and wrinkles. So eat up!
Kale: There’s a reason why the health world is obsessed with kale, and it all comes down to plenty of antioxidants, vitamins and even more omega-3s. Nibbling on this particular leafy green can assist liver detoxification, nourish and plump the skin and prevent dryness.
Turmeric: Another antioxidant, this time curcumin; found in Indian-favourite turmeric, curcumin has long been used as an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory, and it turns out that it can do wonders for your brain, too. Scientists believe that turmeric can preserve memory and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Blueberries: On the topic of memory, blueberries have been shown to provide a “notable improvement in cognitive performance and brain function” – and can even reverse prematurely greying hair.
Watermelon: Firstly, watermelon is, obviously, rich in water, and keeping a healthy, hydrated body is key to helping you stay young. Secondly? Yet another antioxidant, this one called lycopene, has strong anti-aging properties that can help to ward off heart disease and cancer.
Admitting that “the LGBTQ community has always felt like home”, the girl who inspired us as Matilda Wormwood in the Roald Dahl adaption has come out as queer in light of the recent Orlando tragedy.
On Monday, June 13, Mara Wilson revealed her sexuality to her fans in a series of telling tweets.
In light of the tragic massacre at Orlando’s gay Pulse nightclub that left 50 dead and 53 injured, the Matilda actress decided to unveil her true self.
Sharing a photo of herself from ten years ago, the now-28-year-old wrote, “Me at a gay club when I was eighteen. I feel embarrassed looking at it now…”
Elaborating, the brunette beauty said, “Being a “straight girl” where I clearly didn’t belong, but I will say, I felt so welcomed there.”
“I have never had a better experience at a club than I did then,” she went on.
The star’s admission began with this throwback snap.
With the world cheering her on, she continued: “I haven’t been to one since college, except once when a friend brought me along.”
“I didn’t feel like I belonged there. But the LGBTQ community has always felt like home, especially a few years later when, I, uh, learned something about myself. So thank you.”
When asked by a curious follower if she defined her sexuality as bisexual, she responded: “Let me put it this way: I’m a 2.”
Mara talks about growing up a child star in Hollywood in the video below. Post continues…
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The child star was referring to the Kinsey Scale, a means of measuring sexuality where a person who identifies as a number 2 is “predominately heterosexual, but more than incidentally homosexual.”
“I know a lot of people don’t like the Kinsey scale, and that is fine by me. But I’m pragmatic at heart and find comfort in numbers,” she wrote.
“Your support is much appreciated. I will say, though, I’m still gonna be pretty private about my relationships, as I always have been.”
The Mrs Doubtfire actress decided to take a break from social media following her honesty.
Mara rose to Hollywood fame at age six when she starred alongside Robin Williams in Mrs Doubtfire.
In 1996, the pint-sized A-lister became a household name for her enchanting performance in the film adaption of Roald Dahl’s Matilda, but her acting career came to a halt shortly after filming concluded when she lost her mother to cancer.
Now, the 28-year-old lives in New York as a writer and playwright who frequently remarks on her daily life via Twitter.
