News
Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively's Effort to Give Kids a Normal Life
2024-12-15
Ryan Reynolds, with a combined net worth of nearly $400 million, emphasizes the importance of giving their children a "normal life." In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the Deadpool star opened up about the differences between his and his wife Blake Lively's working-class upbringings and the lives their four children lead.

Embracing Gratitude and Empathy

Both Ryan and Blake grew up in working-class families. When their children were young, Ryan used to think about the things he didn't have as a kid, like certain gifts or the luxury of takeout. But he soon realized that these are not the burdens his children should carry. They are already in touch with gratitude and have a strong sense of empathy for the world. Ryan makes an effort to not impose the differences between their childhoods on his kids. He and Blake strive to provide them with as normal a life as possible. 1: This approach shows their dedication to raising their children in a way that allows them to develop a healthy perspective. By not constantly highlighting their wealth and fame, they help their kids focus on the important things in life and build strong values. 2: It also sets a good example for their children, teaching them the importance of being grounded and not taking things for granted. Their children are likely to grow up with a more balanced view of the world and a greater sense of purpose.Ryan and Blake, who have been married since 2012, share four children: nine-year-old James, eight-year-old Inez, five-year-old Betty, and one-year-old Olin. Despite not worrying about the public nature of their own relationship, they have made an effort to keep their children out of the limelight. In 2016, Blake said, "We knew the lifestyle we were getting into, and while it's hard, it's another thing when it's our child." 1: This decision shows their concern for their children's well-being and privacy. They understand that being in the public eye can have a negative impact on a child's development, and they are willing to take steps to protect them. 2: By keeping their children out of the limelight, they give them the opportunity to grow up in a more normal environment. This allows them to develop their own personalities and interests without the pressure of being in the public eye.Recently, the couple revealed that they will be taking a pause from their busy schedules in 2025 to focus on their family. A source close to the couple told Life & Style that with 2024 almost over, Ryan is signaling to his Hollywood pals that he and Blake are retreating to their country home for the holidays and focusing on family for the foreseeable future. 1: This decision is a testament to their commitment to their family. They understand the importance of spending time with their children and creating memories together. 2: It also shows that they are not willing to sacrifice their family life for their careers. They are willing to take a step back and prioritize their family, which is a valuable lesson for their children.Jade Biggs (she/her) is one of Cosmopolitan UK's freelance writers, working across all sections including entertainment, beauty, body, and sex and relationships. She previously held the position of Features Writer, covering everything from breaking news and the latest royal gossip to the health and fitness trends taking over your TikTok feed. Jade has a degree in journalism and has been a journalist and content editor for ten years, interviewing leading researchers, high-profile influencers, and industry experts in that time. She is a cat mum to four fur babies and is obsessed with Drag Race, bottomless brunches, and wearing clothes only suitable for Bratz dolls. Follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
I Tasted 5 Fast Food Peppermint Shakes - Here's the Best!
2024-12-15
Peppermint holds a special place during the December holiday season. Candy canes and peppermint candies are everywhere, and its association with the holidays is intriguing. Let's explore the best peppermint shakes at fast food chains.

Uncover the Top Peppermint Fast Food Shakes

How I Tested Peppermint Shakes

When evaluating the peppermint shakes, I used specific criteria. Overall peppermint taste was crucial - was it just right or too much/too little? Texture also mattered - was it too thick or creamy enough? The base was considered - was the peppermint mixed with other flavors? And ultimately, would I order it again?

The Best Fast Food Peppermint Milkshakes, Ranked

5. DQ’s Peppermint Hot Cocoa Blizzard

Rating: 3/10This Blizzard is a bit of a misnomer as it's more of a hot cocoa than a traditional milkshake. Despite being heavily topped with crushed peppermint, the chocolate base overpowers the mint taste. It was overly thick and started melting almost immediately. If you're a peppermint fan from Dairy Queen, it's better to wait for their mint milkshake in March.

4. Starbucks’ Peppermint Mocha Frappucino

Rating: 4/10Although not a true shake, Starbucks gets into the holiday spirit with its peppermint-themed drinks. The Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino was a bit of a disappointment. The peppermint flavor was lacking, and while the mocha mix was enjoyable, it didn't live up to expectations. Perhaps the Peppermint White Chocolate version is better. It gets a bonus for the chocolate bits.

3. Chick-fil-A’s Peppermint Chip Milkshake

Rating: 5/10Initially, I had high hopes for Chick-fil-A's peppermint shake as their regular shakes are excellent. While the mint taste is subtle, the shake has the right consistency and the peppermint hits at the end. It also has a chocolate base with chocolate bits, which I loved.

2. Whataburger’s White Chocolate Peppermint Shake

Rating: 8/10Trying Whataburger's shake was a pleasant surprise. It has a slight peppermint taste that hits at the end without being overpowering. The peppermint is mixed into a white chocolate base, which is a nice change from the regular chocolate. The shake consistency is perfect for sipping. I'll definitely be getting this one again before peppermint season ends.

1. Five Guy’s Candy Cane Crunch Shake

Rating: 7/10For those who love a strong peppermint flavor, Five Guys' Candy Cane Crunch Shake is the top choice. It has a great milkshake consistency and a beautiful red color. It's topped with a generous amount of crushed candy canes. However, if you prefer a more subtle peppermint taste, Chick-fil-A or Whataburger's options are better.
See More
Man Guilty of Not Returning & Damaging Rental Car in Baxter County
2024-12-15
Jacob Yancey, a 44-year-old individual, found himself in a legal predicament when he failed to return a rental car as promised. This incident led to a series of events that unfolded in Baxter County Circuit Court on Monday (Dec. 9). Let's delve into the details of this case.

Unraveling the Tale of a Rental Car's Disappearance

Initial Rental and Lease Extension

Jacob Yancey rented a 2019 Toyota Corolla on June 14, 2023, for a two-day period. However, when the first rental contract expired, he renewed the lease and continued to pay the rental rate until July 18, 2023. This extension showed his initial intention to return the vehicle but ultimately led to a different outcome.During this time, the vehicle was in Yancey's possession, and an interesting detail emerged. The license plate on the vehicle was valid at the time of the initial rental but expired while it was with him. This raised questions about his responsibility and compliance during the rental period.

Failure to Return and Subsequent Events

Despite the extended lease, the vehicle was not returned when it was due. This led to a series of actions. An investigator had a telephone conversation with Yancey on July 26, 2023, in which he promised to return the vehicle later that same day. But unfortunately, the car remained missing.It was entered into ACIC as stolen, and a police officer located the missing car at a residence in Gassville. The sheriff's investigator responded to the scene and noted substantial damage to the front end and interior of the car. The damage was estimated at more than $5,000, and interestingly, this damage had not been reported to the business from which the car was leased, and no accident report could explain it.A woman named Chelsea Holland told officers that Yancey had asked her to return the car the day before. However, she could not provide a reasonable explanation for being put in charge of the vehicle as she was not listed as an authorized driver on the rental agreement.There is no clear explanation in the probable cause affidavit as to when or where Yancey was picked up. This mystery adds another layer to the already complex situation.In the end, Yancey was put on probation for 5 years, and a restitution hearing on damages done to the vehicle is set for Jan. 27. The deputy prosecutor Kerry Chism estimated the figure might go as high as $6,000 to $8,000. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of fulfilling rental obligations and the consequences that can follow when one fails to do so.
See More