5 Spring Activities Every Mom Should Do With Her Kids

Priscilla Blossom
Mar 29, 2018

Springtime is finally here, and that means the snow days (and sick days) are mostly behind us. We’ve all been cooped up long enough that now is the perfect time to start going out more with our kids. While it might not be warm enough yet for beach time, there are plenty of outdoor activities that we can start enjoying now. Your kiddos will definitely dig these activities, especially if you put your own twist on them. So throw on some sneakers, pack up some snacks, and get going with these five ideas for a perfect spring outing with your fam.

1. Start a garden. Most young kids will jump at the chance to play in some dirt. Don’t be afraid to get your own nails dirty, Mama. Pick up some seed packets, and work on a mini-garden together with your little ones. It will definitely be a fun bonding (and learning) experience for you and your kids — and one that’s ongoing, so you’ll always have something to chat about and work together on. PS: Gardening has numerous health benefits, including boosting your immune system and giving you exercise that’s more fun than work.

2. Shop at a farmers’ market. While you wait for your own flowers to bloom, you can always take your children to your local farmers’ market. Here you can teach your kids about proper nutrition by asking them to pick out new fruits and veggies to try at home. You can also pick up healthy (or at least locally produced) snacks and other hand-made goods. Many markets feature arts and crafts too, making them excellent places to gift shop for the rest of the year. No downsides detected.

3. Take a nature hike. Spring is the perfect time to get into hiking. The weather conditions are just right, so you can stay outdoors without worrying about getting too much sun (although we moms need to be sure our families are using a solid SPF cream at all times). While some kids might not be too into the idea of walking around outside at first, you can always find ways to make it relevant to them. Try creating your own scavenger hunt list prior to going out (like, find three pinecones, take a photo of someone jumping off a big rock, etc.) so you have things to search for. Or, if your kids are still fairly young, you can go extra-creative and take magnifying glasses to hunt for fairies and gnomes.

4. Play ball (or at least catch a game). Whether you’re a baseball fanatic or don’t know the infield from your team’s dugout, there’s no denying that baseball is the sport for springtime. Plenty of Little League and T-ball teams are forming right now, so feel free to register your kiddos so you can become *that mom* with the giant foam finger at all their games. Or, if your kids aren’t so personally sports-inclined or already have other activities, take them to a spring training or opening day game. Many baseball stadiums these days feature plenty of fun extras for kids, like playgrounds and batting cages. No matter who wins the game, you’ll definitely make some great family memories.

5. Visit your local zoo or botanical garden. Between holidays, vacations, and colds and flus, many of us don’t have the time to stop by our local zoos or gardens during the winter. Plus, it’s often too cold for most of the animals to want to do much. Springtime reawakens everyone — human and lion and tiger and bear alike. Take your tots to go check out that new cheetah exhibit, or stage one of your nature hikes at the botanical garden, where all sorts of plants are sure to be bloomin’.

What are some of your family plans for this spring? Tweet them to us @BritandCo!

(Photo via Getty)

20 Nifty Gifts To Give Your Step Mom This Mother’s Day

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more gift guides for Mother's Day and beyond!

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Image via brands.

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Your Weekly Horoscope For April 29 to May 5 Is Here

The stars are always moving and shaking things up from day to day, so naturally there's a lot to unpack in your weekly horoscope. Because no two zodiac signs experience these astral changes in the same way, I dug into it all, revealing what the planets have in store for you and how to use astrology to navigate the week ahead. Read along for your sun, moon, and rising sign for additional insight!

​What To Expect In Your Weekly Horoscope: April 29 To May 5

Photo by Andres Ayrton/PEXELS

The planets Venus and Mars feel at home, meaning your love life is about to experience that same feeling.

We've ended April fully intact post-eclipse season and Mercury Retrograde. With the moon continuing to wane, this is an ideal period for you to slow down and release. As the moon loses its light each day, it ignites momentum for you to release the unwanted. The Sun, being in the sign of Taurus, extends stability for you to become more solid instead of impulsive.

The love planets, Venus and Mars, enter their dignity signs, Taurus and Aries. This moment will grant you grace and grit as you navigate your relationships these next several weeks. Venus enters Taurus on April 29, and it will beautify your outlook on things that involve creature comforts and love. Indulge yourself by booking a spa or self-care day that invokes the spark inside you, adding the confidence you need. Starting on April 30, Mars in Aries will power up your motivation while adding fuel to your fire involving your passion. This fuels the need for instant results, but practicing patience and optimism will buffer out the impulse. Watch your temper or for those around you who seem to have a short fuse. (Aries energy has a knack for this.) Be observatory in line with conflict.

May 1 is a powerful day as the love planet Venus faces the need to transform with Pluto – it will make love or self-worth feel like a pressure cooker.

Under pressure, Venus in square with Pluto can manifest as power and control issues between love and values. This is the moment to embrace change involving your desires. The split between wanting stability with Venus in Taurus and the radical energy of Pluto in Aquarius can lead to a powerful transformation in your love story while opening the path to realizing your worth. There is a part of you or the relationship itself that needs to evolve to attract a healthier outcome. Hold still, and don’t react. Just observe your environment. Take this as a sign to reevaluate your priorities in your relationship and everything else that can deflect you from living authentically.

Get ready to be “comfortably uncomfortable” because Pluto retrograde starts this week.

If you are unsettled, this Pluto retrograde phase (until October 11th) will help you see clearly what needs to be released from your trajectory to make room for positive changes. It's not a period to control or remain in harsh environments or situations. This can fall in line with unhealthy habits or relationship patterns. It's the moment to let go. Luckily, Mars will ignite that boost and positivity when this retrograde begins when it forms a sextile to Pluto on May 3rd. This phase will enable you to embrace the idea of facing the unresolved and powering through without looking back.

Key Dates For Your Weekly Horoscope

Photo by jasmin chew/PEXELS

  • 4/29 Venus enters Taurus
  • 4/30 Mars enters Aries
  • 5/1 Venus square Pluto
  • 5/2 Pluto Retrograde
  • 5/3 Mars sextile Pluto

Weekly Horoscope For Your Sign

Aries

Although it's past your birthday season, the spotlight continues to shine on you. Mars entering your sign this week will power up your mojo. Whatever you have your sights on, be sure to initiate, not wait on the sidelines, because that is how you can experience early burnout. The Venus square Pluto can make you feel like you are facing a dead end with your friends or networks. Don’t stress about the results. When your ruler, planet Mars, sextiles Pluto, you will get your second wind as you learn to discern your connections. Assess your connections and those who reflect your values. Remember to hold to your vision and belief. The right people will support your future visions in time. It all begins with you this week.

Taurus

You will begin to see life around you as a work of art. Venus, your ruler planet, crosses into your first house of self-image, confidence, and identity. This can be a great week to indulge in self-care and upgrade your look. Venus beautifies whatever it touches; you will be magnetic in this sector. Book a photoshoot or update your dating profile, and you will likely attract a flow of potential love partners. The Venus square Pluto this week will trigger you to realize your worth in your professional and personal life. It can present challenges with authority. However, you will be equipped with the ingenuity to stand your ground with grace. Later this week, when Mars sextiles Pluto stemming from your twelfth house, it will grant you a new pattern of thinking that will enable you to establish the terms in your career direction.

Gemini

These last few weeks have been lowkey. The tempo will rise this week, involving your ideas as Mars enters your third house of communication. With Venus also entering your twelfth house of the subconscious and dream realms of life, there will be an overflow of inspiration that may be hard to grasp. Take a moment and journal about everything that comes to mind regarding what needs to be improved or beautified in your life. The Venus square Pluto will ignite a phase of you realizing that you must stay true to yourself while empowering you to embrace your nonconformist ways. By the end of this week, you will feel a renewed sense of understanding of your purpose. Clearing out the unnecessary dialogue and finding your inner voice is a great place to start.

Cancer

This week emphasizes social connections and future ambitions for you. Venus in Taurus energizes friendships and group activities in your 11th house, while Mars in Aries fuels your professional drive in the 10th house. Be mindful of power struggles involving friendship circles or networks, especially when Venus squares Pluto. Diplomacy is key. If you feel a bit of shade, learn how to deflect instead of adding fuel to the fire. Mars sextile Pluto encourages profound transformation and growth, urging you to confront inner fears. Prioritize self-care amidst career demands to avoid burnout. There will also be a lesson regarding boundaries and the power of saying “no." Overall, balancing socializing with career pursuits, maintaining boundaries, and embracing opportunities for personal development will be your main vibe this week. Trust your intuition when navigating challenges, and you will emerge stronger spiritually.

Leo

There is a lot of action for you this week, Leo, with your career, beliefs, and relationships. With Venus in Taurus boosting your professional aspirations in your 10th house and Mars igniting your thirst for knowledge in the 9th house, you're in for an exciting ride. Be ready for some intensity in your relationships as Venus squares Pluto, but don't worry, you've got this. Embrace the transformative opportunities coming your way with Mars sextile Pluto. Remember to find that perfect balance to keep things harmonious. Dive deep into open communication and mutual respect with your partner, and watch as your connection blossoms. Discuss your long-term ventures or visualize your dreams. Take time for yourself, nurture your spirit, and trust your intuition—it'll lead you to profound discoveries.

Virgo

This week is all about exploration and transformation for you. With Venus igniting your curiosity in the 9th house and Mars urging you to dive deep into vulnerability in the 8th house, a lot of inner growth is happening. Watch out for power struggles in relationships, especially with Venus square Pluto. Welcome those challenges—they're growth opportunities, especially with Mars sextile Pluto supporting you in facing the unknown and learning the importance of igniting change in your narrative. Focusing on financial planning and collaborations in your career would be best. Stay on top of your game at work by factoring in those who align with your interests. Regarding your job or your personal life, trust your instincts and make a move if you feel called to step up in your life direction, Virgo.

Libra

Expect inner growth opportunities involving your relationships this week, Libra. With Venus in Taurus sparking intimacy in your 8th house and Mars igniting passion in partnerships in the 7th house, your connections are intense. Watch for power struggles, especially with Venus square Pluto powering up a voice or feeling you didn’t know existed. Justice will be on your side when Mars sextiles Pluto, helping you see a clearer picture of your stance on love or close connections. Trust your instincts and communicate openly to strengthen bonds. Remember to capitalize on your well-being and integrity to keep yourself in check.

Scorpio

Scorpio, this week is a blend of relationships, work life, and home matters for you. Venus in Taurus sparks partnership harmony or the need to refine it, while Mars in Aries amps your energy for work and health routines. However, watch for tensions at home due to Venus square Pluto, and utilize this interchange to deepen emotional bonds. Focus on open communication and balance amidst any challenges. In relationships, prioritize understanding, stay productive in work, and care for your well-being. Navigate with patience and aim for harmony at home, especially with family responsibilities. Trust your inner strength to guide you through any turbulence, Scorpio—it's your power source.

Sagittarius

Slow down and pay attention to your process of taking care of your mind and body, Sagittarius. With Venus in Taurus in your 6th house, focus on improving your daily routines and well-being. Begin a new fitness regimen or establish a self-care practice. The body is a temple and begins with how you view yourself. Whatever you wish to improve in your life starts with the body. As Mars enters Aries in your 5th house, it will stir fire (your element), and you will feel more passionate than usual. Reignite your connection with your romantic partner or start a new creative venture. This is the week to dial down and become more intentional in your process of life and what stirs your heart. Feel again, and your paradigm will shift.

Capricorn

This week revolves around fulfillment, home life, and financial matters. Venus enters Taurus in your 5th house, inspiring you to express yourself creatively and find joy in your hobbies. Mars moves into Aries in your 4th house, energizing your domestic sphere and prompting action on home-related projects. However, be cautious of power struggles around money or values as Venus squares Pluto. Accept the potential for transformation and empowerment with Mars sextile Pluto, especially regarding your financial security and family dynamics. Become open to receiving input from your loved ones to clear the air or establish a better path with your family unit.

Aquarius

This week is all about communication, emotional security, and personal growth. With Venus in Taurus in your 4th house, focus on nurturing your emotional well-being and finding comfort in your home environment. It's time to orchestrate a spring cleaning or beautify your surroundings. This will attract a flow of opportunities involving prosperity. When Mars enters your 3rd house, it will energize your communication style and prompt action on your ideas and plans. This will be an ideal week to get your message and witness movement. Practice your pitch or message by writing it down or speaking aloud to establish confidence. You will be heard. However, be mindful of power struggles, especially concerning your identity or self-expression, as Venus squares Pluto. Prioritize open communication, integrity, and truth when handling any challenges.

Pisces

Focus on your inner dialogue, finances, and personal beliefs this week, Pisces. Venus entering Taurus in your 3rd house will ignite heartfelt conversations and harmonious interactions with siblings or neighbors. Be mindful of power struggles concerning communication or hidden influences, go within, and analyze the state of your connections energetically as Venus squares Pluto. Prioritize clear and compassionate communication when handling any conflicts. This is your opportunity to clear the air with any message that was left unresolved and make amends. As Mars moves into Aries in your 2nd house, it will motivate you to take initiative towards your stability and self-worth. To gain the upper hand is to face your subconscious patterns, and Mars sextile Pluto this week will extend the solution for you to learn how to rewire yourself into a better version.

Want to learn the astrology basics and decode your birth chart? Take a look at Lumi's new beginner's astrology workbook

Need more astrological advice? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter so you never miss a thing!

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Blake Lively Is In Ryan Reynolds' New Movie! Here's Your First Look At Her Character.

Blake Lively is as multifaceted as they come. She's an actress who has starred in titles like Gossip Girl, A Simple Favor, and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (plus the upcoming adaptation of It Ends With Us). She's the founder of Betty Buzz, which has a variety of non-alcoholic mixers that taste just as good on their own as they do with liquor. And, she's also a mom. Lively has been outspoken about protecting her children from the paparazzi, making rare public appearances with them for events like her husband Ryan Reynolds' Hollywood Walk Of Fame Ceremonyandcozy date nights.

When Lively and Reynolds seemingly announced the birth of their fourth child last year, we melted. Here's everything you need to know about Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids.

Is Blake Lively in any of Ryan Reynolds' movies?

Image via Paramount Pictures

Yes, Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have been in the same movies! After meeting during the production of Green Lantern, Blake Lively has a role as an imaginary friend in Ryan Reynolds' new movie IF. In the film, Blake plays a kitten, and it looks like the child who dreamed her up also loves the ocean! This spring movie follows Ryan Reynolds' character and his neighbor Bea, who set out to save all the imaginary friends. It looks like such a fun watch and I can't wait to see the role Blake plays!

The movie also stars director John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, Alan Kim, Liza Colón-Zayas, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr., and Steve Carell.

How do Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively prioritize their kids?

Image via Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Michael Kors

Blake Lively recently joined an episode of her Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' costar Amber Tamblyn's Further Adoand revealed the one unbreakable rule she made with Ryan Reynolds.

“When Ryan and I got together, we made a rule not to work at the same time,” she says. “So that we could always prioritize our personal life...That takes working really hard when we're not. Just like financial planning and sustaining that; it takes balance.”

I love that Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds are serious about their family life, and that they have identified what works for them and are sticking with it.

Is Taylor Swift friends with Blake Lively's kids?

Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Yes, Taylor Swift loves Blake Lively's kids! At the Philadelphia show of the Eras Tour, in which Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively attended, Taylor said hello from the stage.

One funny detail about Ryan Reynolds' kids that I love is when he mentioned the girls finally realized Taylor Swift was a popstar. "I think what's most exciting for them is that for the longest time they just thought Taylor's just like an aunt, like a friend of Mommy and Daddy that's very, very close, almost family," he tellsThe Jess Cagle Show. "And then they went to a concert one day and were like, 'Ohhhhh, this isn't a hobby.'"

For Super Bowl Sunday, Blake Lively joined Taylor Swift to support beau (and KC Chiefs tight end) Travis Kelce. "Last week I left my kids for the first time ever," she says on Instagram. "I took pictures upside down and had no clue. I treated a friendship bracelet like a Flat Stanley for my husband like I didn’t realize it wasn’t ‘07. I borrowed more jewelry than the skeleton in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. And I went clubbing. Now I know what my episode of TheTwilight Zone would look like."

How has motherhood affected Blake Lively?

Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Staff/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images;Art by Claire Shadomy/B+C

Blake Lively recently opened up about how Ryan Reynolds and she monitor screen safety for their kids, which is definitely something top-of-mind in 2024. “This is not an ad. I get nothing out of this. I just love @tappityapp,” she said of the STEM-focused educational app. “It’s engaging, informative, fun and they care about safety."

She also jokes that she's learning new things right along with her daughters! But, no matter how educational or fun an app is, Blake Lively also emphasizes the importance of engaging with her kids' devices: "I’m always triple checking any kids app constantly for safety because that’s my responsibly not an app’s, but I do LOVE this one.”

Despite its fun and funny moments, the actress has admitted being a mom is hard, but she did it with her signature dry sense of humor. “BettyBooze at your service," she wrote in an Instagram Story announcing the new brand. "These are recipes I’ve been making for loved ones for years. But I have 4 kids now. And I’m tired. So here they are. In a can."

However, Lively absolutely loves motherhood, and says in a 2022 interview with Forbes that having children has made her feel more comfortable in her own skin. "Once I had children, that just became even more profound because my time was even more precious, but also I think having children for me made me feel so much more in my skin," she says. "I never felt more myself or at ease in my own body or more confident — not to say that there aren't a bevy of insecurities coming at me a million times a day, but I just feel incredibly settled."

Speaking with People in 2021, Lively also explains how important it is that her children see her accomplish things outside the home. "I want to be as present of a mother as humanly possible and I want them to feel my presence, but I also think the best way to be the best mother is to show them that you can have a life and have a passion and have an identity outside of just being a mother," Lively says.

While she acknowledges that motherhood is all-encompassing, and it looks different for everyone, she knows that having your own identity is very important. "Teaching them that they can maintain themselves and that everything is possible [is crucial]," she adds.

How many children do Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have?

Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's children are four girls. They welcomed their third daughter in 2019, making this new addition to the family their fourth kid.

When did Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have their daughters?

Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation

Blake Lively's children were all born in the last 10 years. Blake Lively's kids' names are James, Inez, Betty, and a fourth baby whose name they haven't announced yet. She gave birth to James in 2014, while Inez was born in 2016. Lively gave birth to Betty in 2019 and their fourth baby in February of 2023. I'm hoping that we might find out Ryan Reynolds' new baby's name in honor of her first birthday!

Why did Blake Lively name her daughter James?

Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images

The couple decided to name their daughter James after Reynolds' late father. While the name connects both James and Reynolds to his father, it also gives Lively the chance to bond with her daughter over having historically male names. "I liked having a boy's name," Lively said on Good Morning Americain 2015. "I thought I'd pass it on."

Their third daughter Betty's name is a tribute to Lively's late father. We didn't know the name of the couple's third baby until Taylor Swift used all three names in her 2020 album folklore. Swift also used James' voice at the beginning of her 2017 track "Gorgeous"! Does that mean we'll hear one of Ryan Reynolds' children in Reputation (Taylor's Version)? I hope so!

What has Ryan Reynolds said about raising their kids?

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Per People, Ryan Reynolds has made it clear he and Blake are wholly invested in the kids' daily lives. The doting husband and father enjoys the moments of "walking them to school and walking them back" as it deepens their bond. More than anything, Ryan and Blake's main goal is to make sure they teach their kids how to be introspective with Ryan saying, "...that's the thing we sort of hang our hat on the most is self-awareness with our kids."

However, that doesn't mean Blake and Ryan don't absolutely love being parents. "We're very excited [and] we wouldn't do this four times if we didn't love it," he says in an interview with CNBC's Power Lunch. "Everybody's doing great. Everybody's actually doing fantastic. I think if we hadn't figured it out by now, I think we'd be in deep, deep trouble."

"It's a zoo over here," he jokes. "This is my office here, this is where I'll probably — to be honest, I'll probably spend the rest of my life in here."

We love how much energy Ryan and Blake are pouring into their kids. It's always beautiful when parents are able to be present with their kids and teach them how to be present with themselves. Ryan Reynolds has also mentioned how having daughters "has been such a ride." Since he comes from a family of all boys, having daughters is something that was beyond his wildest dreams! “I love being a girl dad,” Ryan tells Access. “I have three daughters, which I never in a million years would imagine.”

He mentioned his newest daughter in June of 2023, when he announced his new series Bedtime Stories. "The idea for a show made to help everyone fall asleep was born the same day as my fourth child," he says on Instagram.

Did Blake Lively have a 4th baby?

Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for American Cinematheque

Blake Lively posted a pic on Super Bowl Sunday showing what appears to be a post-baby body with the caption "Been busy."

Lively confirmed her fourth pregnancy in September 2022 when she arrived at her Forbes event in NYC cradling a baby bump and by posting her own personal photos on Instagramhoping that "the 11 guys waiting outside [her] home for a 🦄 sighting will leave [her] alone."

What gender is Ryan and Blakes 4th child?

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Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's newest baby, who was born in February of 2023, is a girl! Reynolds explained on the Today Show that they "never find out" until the baby is born, and whether they decide to reveal it is totally up to them. So, does Ryan Reynolds have a son? So far, not yet, but I'm a firm believer in never say never ;).

What is the name of Blake Lively's 4th baby?

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Since Taylor Swift used the Blake Lively's kids names in folklore, Swifties think they've guessed Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' new baby's name.

"Calling it now Blake Lively & Ryan Reynolds baby is going to be named Daisy Mae," Kaitlyn Kersten tweeted after the release of Taylor Swift's Midnights in October 2022 (the name is mentioned in "You're On Your Own Kid.") While we don't have official word on what Ryan Reynolds' new baby name is, we do think that James, Inez, Betty, and Daisy sound great together!

Do Blake and Ryan have nannies?

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Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds' children don't have a nanny. "I feel like I could sometimes have a bit of a short fuse, but there's just been this weirdly endless supply of patience," Ryan told GQ in 2015. "I have no problem waking up five times in the middle of the night and changing diapers, and as exhausted as you get, I have this stupid grin on my face all the time."

How long have Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively been married?

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Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively have been married for 11 years. The couple got married in 2012 at a former slave plantation in South Carolina, a location that the couple is "unreservedly sorry for," Reynolds told Fast Company in 2020.

How did Blake and Ryan meet?

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Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds met on the set of their film Green Lantern in 2010. After they filmed the movie, they ended up going out with other people, until a train ride changed everything! “Next thing you know, she was going to Boston, and I was going to Boston,” Ryan says on an episode of the SmartLess podcast. “So we got on a train and rode together and then, you know, I was just begging her to sleep with me.” Their relationship quickly evolved to the one we know and love today!

Was Blake Lively married before Ryan Reynolds?

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Ryan Reynolds is Blake Lively's first husband, but before they got married, the actress dated her Gossip Girl costar Penn Padgley and also reportedly dated Leonardo DiCaprio. Ryan Reynolds was married to MCU star Scarlett Johansson from 2008 to 2010.

Who is Blake Lively's half sister?

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Blake Lively's half-sister is Robyn Lively. Robyn also works in Hollywood, just like Blake's brother Eric Lively and brother-in-law Bart Johnson.

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's kids!

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This story has been updated.

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Every Question About Gilmore Girls, Answered

At this point in my life, I have what could be considered an encyclopedic knowledge ofGilmore Girls. I can discuss plot points, TV moments, and The Battle Of Rory's Boyfriends to academic extents — but there is always more to talk about! If you've also got Gilmore Girls on the brain, then keep scrolling for some of your top Gilmore Girls questions, answered.

Why is season 7 of Gilmore Girls so different?

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Gilmore Girls season 7 has a different tone to the rest of the show for one simple reason: creators and writers Dan & Amy Sherman-Palladino weren't involved in the production of the show. They were so heavily involved in previous seasons that it makes sense their absence would be felt!

What happens at the end of Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life?

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After we said goodbye to Rory, Lorelai, and the rest of Stars Hollow, Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life allowed us to see all our favorite characters again — and then shocked us with its final four words. In a full circle moment, the show ends with Lorelai and Rory sitting on the steps of the town gazebo with their coffees before Rory asks, "Mom?" "Yeah," Lorelai says. "I'm pregnant."

Is there going to be a season 2 of Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life?

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While there hasn't been an official confirmation for Gilmore Girls: A Year in a Life season 2, fans and cast members alike are hoping we'll return to Stars Hollow again. "If that came up again, I love that character so much and I love Amy," Lauren Graham tells Collider. "I will work with her, any time. It would just be a matter of responsibility to the fans and what we could give them that's deserving of their devotion."

Where can I rewatch Gilmore Girls?

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You can stream Gilmore Girls on Netflix now. That means you can rewatch the show from the comfort of your own home (or bed), which is perfect!

Who did Lorelai Gilmore end up with?

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After years of feeling torn between Rory's father Christopher and her best friend Luke, Lorelai ended Gilmore Girls in a relationship with Luke. But if you ask me, the most important relationship is the one between Lorelai and Rory, which is still going strong by the end of the series!

What happened to Emily Gilmore?

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While Emily Gilmore seems a little intimidating at the beginning of the series, she definitely has a heart of gold. When A Year In The Life opens, we learn her husband Richard has passed away, and Emily balances healing from her grief while also exploring the independence she's never had before.

Where can I buy Gilmore Girls gifts?

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Whether you're hunting for a white cable knit sweater like Rory's iconic pullover or you're headed to the bookstore to try her reading list for yourself, you can find Gilmore Girls gifts everywhere from the Hallmark store to Amazon.

Where is the Gilmore Girls cast now?

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The cast of Gilmore Girls has been busy since the show wrapped! You can see Chad Michael Murray and Scott Patterson on Sullivan's Crossing, while Lauren Graham recently published Have I Told You This Already? Alexis Bledel is in talks to star in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 3, while Milo Ventimiglia just got married! I love seeing this cast thrive.

Why is Gilmore Girls season 5 controversial?

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If there's one Gilmore Girls season that's gone down in infamy, it's Gilmore Girls season 5. There are a few (very controversial) reasons it strikes a cord with fans, including but not limited to, Rory dating a recently divorced Deanafter their affair in season 4, stealing a yacht with Logan, and deciding to drop out of Yale. This sounds like a quarter-life crisis if I've ever seen one.

Who is the father of Rory's baby?

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Gilmore Girlsleft us on a huge cliffhanger when Rory Gilmore revealed she was pregnant, and thanks to costume supervisor Valerie Campbell, we know that the father of Rory's baby is her college boyfriend Logan Huntzberger.

Where is Stars Hollow located in real life?

Featured image via Taryn Elliott/Pexels.

You can visit Stars Hollow IRL by taking a trip to Washington, Connecticut. The town made Amy Sherman-Palladino feel so at home that she used it as inspo for Gilmore Girls!

Does Lane Kim have a baby?

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Yes, Lane ends up having twins by the end of Gilmore Girls. Amy Sherman-Palladino actually revealed this was a plot point she didn't like from Gilmore Girls season 7. "I would’ve preferred that Lane not have kids, only because it would’ve given us more options," she tells TV Line. "The one thing you couldn’t do with Lane and Zack is have them be sh—tty parents. So them having kids sort of dictated them still living in Stars Hollow. It changed things ever so slightly. They’re still rock and rollers. They’re still the cool parents."

Did Paris Geller attend Harvard?

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No, Paris Geller did not get into Harvard, which is a plot point that still divides fans. After all, Paris was brilliant, why wouldn't she have gotten in?! Paris and Rory both went to Yale, and actually ended up rooming together.

What happened to Rory Gilmore?

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By the time we see Rory Gilmore in Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life, she's become a freelance journalist who travels around the world for work. After some encouragement from Jess, Rory also ends up writing a book about her life with Lorelai, titled Gilmore Girls.

Who was Rory Gilmore's best boyfriend?

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This is the age-old question that will divide Gilmore Girls fans for the rest of time!! While everyone has a different answer (Logan! Jess! Dean! Actually..who picks Dean?), Matt Czuchry himself recently revealed that he thinks there's NO right answer. “I think [all three of Rory Gilmore's boyfriends have] strengths and weaknesses, like we all do,” he says on The Talk. “And I think that the fun of the show is that you’ve got these characters who are flawed and had these great pieces and everybody debates who’s best for Rory because they feel different about their strengths and weaknesses that might match up.”

What's your favorite season of Gilmore Girls? I'm a tried and true season 3 fan (because of Jess, of course), but I will always rewatch the pilot before I watch anything else. Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture news!

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9 Annoying Airplane Habits You’re Probably Guilty Of (& How To Avoid Them)

Planning summer vacationhas me thinking about stylish duffel bags and small rolling suitcases so much that I almost forgot about all the lack of airplane etiquette that comes with traveling. I've briefly mentioned an overzealous passenger who swore an overhead bin space belonged to him before, but that's not the only weird and downright inconsiderate behavior that can happen during a flight.

It's just a solid reminder that all the personal prep in the world can't keep other people from getting in the way. There's always at least one person who seems to think you want their feet propped up by you, and we can't forget about the person who's impatient to get to their seat as if there aren't other passengers on the plane. To avoid making the mistake of being inconsiderate or careless, I'm sharing a list of 9 offensive things to avoid while flying. And with that, welcome to Airplane Etiquette 101!

Airplane Etiquette Lessons:

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1. Don't Complain That Someone Gets To Board Before You

When you're booking your flight, you usually can choose your seat assignments based on the ticket that you're purchasing. You're usually placed in different boarding groups as a result so please don't think someone is out to get you if you're placed in groups 4-6. All this means is that you purchased an Economy ticket that's placed you in a middle or aisle seat, or you may not have a boarding number.

Assuming someone shouldn't board before you based on their appearance or your annoyance isn't going to change what's on the ticket you purchased.

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2. Don't Worry About Why Someone's Flying First Class

This one feels self-explanatory, but here goes: It's not anyone's business why someone is flying first class. Their job could've purchased the ticket, or they may have felt like splurging for once. It's not up to us to look at someone, judge their appearance, and say things like, "They just let anyone fly first class these days."

It's classist and — not to mention — childish.

Image via Lukas Souza/Unsplash

3. Just Cooperate With The Flight Attendants, OK?

We've all been on a flight where at least one person decides they're not going to listen to the flight attendants onboard. This usually looks like refusing to temporarily turn off their cell phones, having their headphones in during important demonstrations and announcements, or being told to calm down if there's ranting involved.

They want to make sure everyone will be safe, including you.

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4. Never Make Snide Comments About Parents Traveling With Kids

At the same time, being an asshole to parents who are traveling with kids just because you "really don't like kids" isn't going to earn you brownie points. This idea that children shouldn't be in public spaces when I'm sure someone travelled with us is wildly hypocritical and whiny.

A child may end up crying because their ears are popping or the plane is experiencing some turbulence. I highly doubt that they took one look at you and decided you were going to be the person they wanted to piss off.

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5. Please Stop Repeatedly Elbowing Your Seat Mate

Respecting someone's personal space is one of the greatest forms of respect in public. You could be waiting to board the plane or you can be sitting in your assigned seat or you can feel comfortable one you're sitting down. Whatever the case may, continuously elbowing the passenger next to you isn't going to go over well.

Photo by Jason Toevs/PEXELS

6. Don't Open The Window Cover If The Person Actually Sitting By It Closed It

This really boils down to respecting someone's personal space. If the person sitting by the window has it closed, ask them if they mind opening it. Please don't reach over them to open it yourself because it shows a disregard for their personal space and, possibly, their preference.

This used to happen to me all the time when I was younger until I finally asked someone what they were doing. It's amazing how startled people are when you ask them a simple question because some people genuinely don't believe they're doing anything wrong.

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7. Stop Blowing Your Nose Loudly In Your Seat Mate's Ear

The first time I flew to California, I wondered how I was going to survive being on a plane for five hours. I figured I'd be okay with reading a couple of books and taking a nap. While I did read, the nap didn't happen thanks to the person sitting next to me.

This person blew their nose the entire flight and balled up their countless napkins before placing them near my elbow. I couldn't even use my armrest because they insisted on elbowing me throughout the flight. Take it from someone who's been subject to this, don't be this person. It's really aggravating.

The solution? Just make your way to the bathroom and blow your nose to your heart's content. That way, you're not bothering the people around you, plus there's a trash can right there for your leftover tissues!

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8. Absolutely NO Burping Or Passing Gas — Especially Without Saying Excuse Me Afterwards

Sigh. Please, just don't. If your body has to release gas, the least you can do is say "Excuse me," when seating on a plane that contains over 200 people. It's not like you can open a window to get rid of the scent that may come along with your body's gas so people will be aware of it if it's particularly, well, smelly.

Much like the tissue situation, just take a trip to the bathroom and handle things alone, in a closed room, away from other people.

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9. No More Rushing People When It's Time To Deplane

Again, there are other passengers on the plane, so everyone will have to wait to exit it. It'll eventually happen, but rushing other people isn't going to make you leave any quicker. You may actually get a few dirty looks or hear some choice words if you're not careful. Please just sit back, relax, and make your move when it's actually your turn.

What do you think are some offensive things people can do while flying? Let us know in the comments!

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