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Pass The Eggnog! Dr. Pimple Popper Is Getting A TLC Holiday Special

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Dr. Pimple Popper has already gifted us popaholics with plenty this year. When you stop to consider the pounds of pus that woman has uncorked, the sheer volume of tissue she's scooped out of necks — and butts (!) for patients and fans to enjoy — we all start feeling a little more thankful.

And yet, after airing a 6-episode television series this summer — which was renewed for a sophomore seasonand dropping a steady stream of gnarly popping videos to her YouTube channel, our sweet sweet Sandra Lee is gifting us all an end-of-year bonus: An hour-long TLC holiday special they're calling "The 12 Pops of Christmas," reports Cosmo.

Like the rest of us, Dr. Lee gets super busy at the tail end of the year. According to a press release from the TV network, patients flood into her office around the holidays in hopes of getting their bulging bumps popped, squeezed, or chopped off, so they can go home and enjoy cranberry vodka season without Uncle Jimmy asking: " Hey, w hat's that thing on your neck? "

For those who want in on all the festive pops Dr. Lee tackles, you can tune into the hour-long montage on TLC this December. But if that cuts into your "It's A Wonderful Life" and "Home Alone" double-header, no worries, because Dr. Pimple Popper season two comes back on a weekly basis in January 2019. Pus: the gift that keeps on giving.

"The 12 Pops of Christmas" special will premiere Thursday, December 13 at 9 p.m. EST.

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Easy Halloween Looks You Can Achieve With Just Makeup

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Do I go spooky this year? Cutesy? Give up and just go for an overdone iteration of a sexy cat? These questions are inevitable as Halloween gets closer and closer. But if none of the aforementioned sound appealing to you — and you cringe at the thought of a headband with pointed, fuzzy ears (we don’t blame you) — then skip the Pinterest board scrolling and swipe through this article for inspo, instead.

These two makeup looks dreamed up by makeup artist Laura Stiassni — and crafted using exclusively Target Beauty products — are all you really need to make a statement (read: no head-to-toe outfit required). The best part? They’re super easy to recreate and you can adapt them to your heart’s desire. So if you’re more into pastels this season (or you’re just digging a different color combo), you can match each lewk to fit your aesthetic — both IRL and for your perfectly curated social feed.

What could possibly be a more perfect combo than glitter and all the colors under the sun rainbow? TBQH, there isn't one. Whimsical cloud-like shapes in seven punchy hues are meticulously mapped out so that the yellow shade from the CAI All That Glitters Eyeshadow Palette lands on your eyes' inner corners, which, according to Stiassni, brightens and opens them up. As for the shapes themselves? They don't have to be even — which gives us all the more reason to throw caution to the wind and just go for it. Not like we needed any convincing or anything.

There’s no doubt that we all have heroic abilities in some shape or form — whether it’s via motherhood, landing our dream job, or dishing out the best advice to our BFF — so why not fully embrace it and put it on display at said friend's Halloween party this year? This eye look reimagines the traditional superhero mask and uses solely makeup — like Wet n' Wild’s Paint Palette — to create it. Pro tip: Creamy makeup paints can be mixed and matched to blend hues that are just as unique as you are.

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Susan Collins & How White Women Keep Selling Us All Out

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Last Thursday, Dr. Christine Blasey Ford stood before the Senate Judiciary Committee and bravely testified about the assault she’d allegedly suffered as a teenager at the hands of Brett Kavanaugh, a man undergoing the confirmation process to become a Supreme Court justice. After much conjecture from the general public on if the Senate would confirm him, the vote fell to a few “swing” senators, including Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine who decided to draw out her decision as long as possible, finally addressing the Senate on Friday afternoon.

What followed, a 42-minute mess of a diatribe from Sen. Collins, was filled with what can only be called Grade A bullshit. She said that Dr. Christine Blasey Ford wasn’t on trial when she testified that Brett Kavanaugh had sexually assaulted her three decades prior — yet Collins went through minuscule details of what made her not believe Dr. Ford’s story, like why she couldn’t remember how she got home. Sen. Collins said she listened to other sexual assault survivors and vowed to protect the upcoming generations of women — at the same time she announced she’d vote to confirm a man who has been accused of sexual misconduct by at least three different women. To her, survivors retraumatizing themselves over and over to make her feel their pain wasn’t more important than giving a horrible man a job promotion.

The speech might as well have been called performance art.

What Susan Collins did isn’t new — not by a long shot, and especially not amongst white conservative women. In fact, support for Brett Kavanaugh amongst Republican women grew after his monstrosity of a hearing. Their reasons for standing by him are pretty predictable: Some believe that people shouldn’t focus on what happened in his personal life when making a decision about his professional life. Others described him as “qualified” as a judge. There’s “women’s advocate” Ivanka Trump, who apparently thinks Kavanaugh is a good man. And then there are those who doubt Dr. Ford’s testimony altogether.

So now we ask a question yet again: What do conservative women like Susan Collins get out of this? Why constantly pit themselves against feminists who want sexual assault survivors to be taken seriously and alleged perpetrators to face actual consequences?

It comes down to cool girlism, plain and simple.

Cool girlism stems from that old-fashioned pop culture line we’ve all heard, when a woman turns to a man and states, “I’m not like other girls.” It’s the misogynistic belief that if you cut down other women and prove that you’re above their “antics,” then the men will respect you and let you play with power on their level. As we’ve watched #MeToo become a rallying cry over the past year, many other women have been quick to cast themselves as “different” from survivors who come forward. These Cool Girls would never put themselves in a situation of being sexually harassed or assaulted, they say. They’d never make a big scene out of it, they say. They’d never hang around a “bad crowd,” they say. They’re not like those other girls, those survivors, those crazy feminists. They actually like men, they argue — often with a chuckle at the end.

In the case of Susan Collins, she wasted no time at the beginning of her speech chiding “special interest groups” for “[whipping] their followers into a frenzy by spreading misrepresentations and outright falsehoods about Judge Kavanaugh’s judicial record.” The accusations and grassroots organizing against Kavanaugh was the fault of “dark money,” she maintained. But in saying that special interest groups created a “frenzy,” Sen. Collins attempted to erase the fact that millions of sexual assault survivors and organizers came together to make the Kavanaugh nomination an issue. Their “special interest” was not seeing an alleged perpetrator on the bench.

The honest truth, however, is that the Cool Girls never get that respect from the men they’re trying to impress with that rhetoric, and they never get anywhere close to playing on the same level. But to gain the power they so desire, they ignore these realities and continue to sacrifice woman after woman in an infinite loop in order to chase men who are, frankly, never worth it and never interested. And in the case of Sen. Collins, voting no on Kavanaugh would have meant drawing the ire of many men, including her peers and Donald Trump, not to mention whatever Kavanaugh supporters (Cool Girls included) will be voting in 2020 if she runs for reelection.

While the concept of cool girlism might seem like something out of an 80s rom-com, what we’re watching right now play out with Susan Collins and other Republican is the same ordeal. The major difference? Their cool girlism is upholding a white supremacist and patriarchal society and taking rights away from millions of people. And often, there’s a hefty dose of false victimhood from these Cool Girls to go with it, lest anyone call them out. But hey, at least they got the attention of those men, right? Right?

Of course, the question then becomes, what can snap someone out of their desire to be the Cool Girl? Or are we totally screwed?

The optimist in me said that things can change. But unfortunately, unraveling decades of internalized misogyny doesn’t happen quickly. It often takes years and requires some soul-searching on the part of the Cool Girl at hand. So where does that leave us as we head into the midterms and prepare to watch Brett Kavanaugh get confirmed?

For now, we lean on of those of us who are like other girls. We yell together. We march together. We fight battles together. And on November 6th, we vote together.

Lily Herman is a contributing editor at Refinery29. Follow her on Twitter. The views expressed are her own.

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12 Fall Nail Art Trends To Try This Weekend

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Maybe you're in the thick of college midterms or clocking insane hours at the office to finish Q4 on a high note — whatever the reason you're currently gnawing on your cuticles, a fresh manicure will definitely take the edge off.

And since you're already seeing red just thinking about everything you have to get done before Halloween, there's no reason to spend any more time staring at the salon wall agonizing over a color decision. Instead, we asked Ophira & Tali Edut, the famous AstroTwins, to match the 12 raddest nail art trends for fall to each astrological sign.

From marbled nails to modern half moons, there's nail art inspiration for every star sign — plus sage advice for dealing with October's wacky retrogrades — ahead.

Aries
March 21 to April 19

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Studded Tips

With Venus in backspin for the entirety of October, it's high time to enliven your spirit of spontaneity — in your approach to romantic relationships, not your spending habits. Keep the bling to your nails, with a negative space rhinestone design that will last for weeks.

Taurus
April 20 to May 20

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Melted Metals

Because Mars is direct this season, you should be feeling more confident and connected to your inner self — and what better way to channel that than with a simple, yet fiery copper manicure?

Gemini
May 21 to June 20

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Negative Space

You might be itching to fill your social calendar this fall, but it's important to take time for yourself and decompress creatively. That's why the AstroTwins recommend grabbing a stripping brush and DIY-ing this minimalist manicure in your downtime.

Cancer
June 21 to July 22

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Half Moons

Multiple demands are coming your way this season, as Mars (your career planet) builds momentum through the fall. Now's the time to find your balance, which is why the AstroTwins are calling for a modern half-moon manicure — complete with rounded stripes to maintain stability.

Leo
July 23 to August 22

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Glitter Stripes

In terms of friendships and staying social, this season shouldn't be tricky, but your romantic affairs could potentially hit some rough waters as Mars stirs things up in your seventh house. A thin stripe of gold glitter running vertically from your cuticles to the ends of your nails will keep the magic alive.

Virgo
August 23 to September 22

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Bright French Tips

Feeling an itch to go bungee jumping? With the direct energy from Mars hitting you hard this season, you'll feel invincible and compelled to take on all sorts of adventures. The AstroTwins recommend keeping your nails fresh and bright to mirror your mood.

Libra
September 23 to October 22

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Chrome Foil

They're calling this fall 'Libra season,' as your planet of love (Mars) is direct and steaming into your fifth house of entertainment to spice up your relationship. And this gilded foil manicure couldn't be a better trend to bring along for the ride.

Scorpio
October 23 to November 21

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Oxblood Dagger

Celebrate your birthday with this fall's coolest mani. The rich burgundy polish, coupled with the sharp minimalist design, will usher in compliments at your party — and all month long.

Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Squiggle Nails

This fall, you'll be advised to look inward in order to make decisions that truly serve you, Sagittarius. And the AstroTwins say that painting on some squiggly nail art will give you the punch of creativity you need to get really introspective.

Capricorn

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Diagonal Halfsies

You're radiating positive vibes this month, Capricorn. Consider a manicure that balances your energy and keeps you upbeat and focused.

Aquarius
January 20 to February 18

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Orbit Nails

It's time to crush those career and networking goals, Aquarius. Stay focused on your goals by maintaining a spherical center right where you can see it: on your fingers. Unfortunately, the orbital nail is a little tricky to pull off on your couch, so we'd recommend booking a pampering session at a salon like Sundays.

Pisces
February 19 to March 20

illustrated by Anna Sudit.

Marbled Mani

As a water sign, you're known for your flexibility and ability to go with the flow, which will be important to maintain at times when you feel in over your head this fall. The AstroTwins encourage Pisces to try a marble mani, which mirrors that soothing flow of good energy.

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The Meaning Behind Bradley Cooper & Lady Gaga's Hair In A Star Is Born

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In a 1976 review of the second remake of A Star Is Born, starring Kris Kristofferson and Barbra Streisand, film critic Roger Ebert wrote, "There's just no way, after all the times we've seen Streisand... for us to accept her as a kid on the way up." Ebert goes on, detailing exactly how despite the plot, movie makeup, and a lineage of two other eponymous films that came before it, the audience just couldn't possibly buy Streisand — an Academy Award winner — as a struggling singer. While some may have feared the same would've been the case for both Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga in the fourth version of the same film, we're here to tell you there's nothing to worry about.

After racking up 11 million views on its YouTube trailer, Cooper's directorial debut for A Star Is Born has officially sent perpetual chills down our spines. In the first few seconds of the preview clip, Cooper sings as Jackson Maine, the rock 'n' roll superstar soon caught up in a love story with undiscovered singer-songwriter Ally. He's sweaty, dirty, sexy, and probably hungover — and that's not something we discover because he tells us; we know it by just looking at him. "That was my goal," Lori McCoy-Bell, hair department head for the film, exclusively tells us. "I was striving for authenticity, for something you could identify with immediately."

Maine is, for all intents and purposes, dealing with addiction — or at least someone who is dealing with substance abuse. He's also a rockstar and in love with someone who, quickly, finds the kind of fame he is simultaneously losing. And while the script and award-worthy acting will tell you that, it's also the hair and makeup that convinces you of the story itself. So, we spoke with McCoy-Bell to tell us everything we need to know before sitting down to cry watch A Star Is Born. Keep reading to get the scoop on all the behind-the-scenes details on Cooper's tale-telling hair and Gaga's multiple dye jobs on-screen.

When did you first hear about the project for a third remake?
"I heard about this project from [Cooper] years before we actually did it, so I've been along for the whole ride. I've been working with him for 10 or 12 years now, since way back when he did Wedding Crashers. When he said he was going to do the project and it would be with Gaga, I knew it was going to be amazing. I had chills and those chills never really stopped."

What products did you use to get his rockstar look?
"We only did two hair tests on [Cooper] before filming to figure out exactly what products would work to create Jackson Maine. During the first test, I only used water to comb back his hair, but since he has a lot of it, it looked too fluffy on camera. Once I figured that out, I ended up using Paul Mitchell's Marula Oil for shine and texture. That really gave us a foundation to Jackson's hair. Then, I took Kiehl's Silk Groom through one-inch sections of his hair in the back, pulling it through until every piece was covered in product."

He touches his hair a lot in the film. It almost feels like it's a character...
"Yes! That's why I wanted his hair soft enough so he could move his hands through it and tuck it behind his ears. You'll definitely notice that he used his hair to give nuance to Maine. You can see it so quickly that he's this rockstar and what kind of person he is just looking at his hair."

Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures.

Gaga had her own hair and makeup team on set. How did you collaborate with her stylist, Frederic Aspiras, to make sure Cooper's vision was cohesive with their work?
"It's not unusual for someone like Lady Gaga to use her own team on a film. She's used to them on the road with her and doing her style. But I did have to work with [Aspiras] a little bit on Gaga's hair because stage hair doesn't work the same way film hair does. It all requires a different expertise because on film you can see everything, you can't cheat any of it. But on stage, it's less likely that someone will see a hair out of place from a distance at a concert."

Her makeup, or lack thereof, was used to show her character Ally's evolution throughout the film. Was her hair used as a similar plot tool?
"[Ally's] storyline is a little different than Jackson's. There's a visible evolution of how Jackson and Ally are together as a couple, but Ally's rise and fame are physically pulling her away from who she was before Jackson found her. It shows how the industry can pull someone away from what they once were."

Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures.

How is the separation of success seen on-screen through Jackson and Ally's looks?
"There is a slight difference in how Jackson's hair and his skin look when he's doing well and sober — and that's it. But when you first see Ally, she's just a woman working in a kitchen, singing with friends. Her hair is brown, kind of cut into a simple shag tied in knots, and she barely wears makeup. As she slowly gets more and more known, she changes. She has to change. Her hair becomes more done-up and at one point, she's even told to change her hair color to become this commercial entertainer. Towards the end of the movie, Jackson is at rehab while she's winning a Grammy. We were trying to show distance between them for their own individual fame and success. Eventually, it all comes full circle and you see Ally in the final scene with her natural brown hair again."

Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures.

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A Week In Minneapolis, MN, On A $55,500 Salary

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Welcome toMoney Diaries , where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.

We're going on book tour for our new book, Money Diaries: Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Your Finances... and Everyone Else's. Next stop: Dallas on Tuesday, October 9! Grab your tickets here!

Today: a high school counselor working in education who makes $55,500 per year and spends some of her money this week on SunChips.

Occupation: High School Counselor
Industry: Education
Age: 26
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Salary: $55,500
Paycheck Amount (2x/month): $1,517

Monthly Expenses
Rent: $712 (I share a two-bedroom apartment with a roommate.)
Student Loan Payment: $250
Utilities: $30-$60, depending on how much we use our A/C units
YWCA Membership: $68
Donations: $30
Apple Music: $11
HSA: $65, with a $25 contribution from my employer
403(b): $277, which is 6% of my salary. My employer matches half up to 3%.
Roth IRA: $200
Savings: $400

Day One

9:15 a.m. — I wake up disoriented under deer antlers until I remember that I'm in the basement of a cabin that my friends and I rented. I had a crappy summer filled with health and work issues, so when my friend said she'd arrange a weekend trip up north with six of our friends, I jumped at the chance. Today is our last day, and the trip has been perfect. I hear my friends talking upstairs, so I get out of bed. I'm greeted with an egg scramble, and I'm reminded why I love them. We sit, chat, and watch the waves from Lake Superior crash against the shore.

11:30 a.m. — We have to leave the cabin by 2 p.m., so we clean up and divvy up what's left of the food. My friend in charge of groceries bought way too much food for the weekend, but hey, I'm happy to take home an onion, some hamburger buns, apples, tomatoes, oatmeal, chili, salad mix, and two leftover sandwiches. I figure I can make do with this for the week instead of grocery shopping.

2:30 p.m. — On our way back, we stop to hike a small section of the Superior Hiking Trail. My friend wants to show us where she winter camped this year. Didn't know you could do that and survive. While you couldn't pay me to winter camp in Minnesota, the spot she stayed at is STUNNING. We hike up to an overlook where we can see Lake Superior from above, and I feel really lucky to be here with people I love.

7:10 p.m. — On the way back, we stop at McDonald's and Subway since my friends can't agree on which to get. I eat the leftover turkey, mayo, and cheese sandwich I took from the cabin. It's a little questionable after five hours sitting in a hot car, but I figure if worst comes to worst, at least I won't have to go into work tomorrow. I Venmo my friend for my share of the groceries while I wait for everyone to get food. $35

10:15 p.m. — We're home, and I Venmo my friend $25 for gas. As soon as he drives off, I'm feeling the Sunday blues HARD. This weekend was so relaxing, and work has been the exact opposite. This year is my fifth year in education, and a lot of my more experienced colleagues have been giving me advice to get out before I become too entrenched. That seemed a little dramatic in the past, but maybe they're right. I've been feeling burnt out, and it's only the third week of school. $25

11 p.m. — Before sleeping, I check out my Mint app in bed. I must have been ambitious the other week when I set up my budgets up for the month, because I'm very doubtful I'll stay within these goals with all I have planned for the month already. I up my budget for categories I'll probably spend more in because I hate when it turns red and yells at me. I read Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward as I fall asleep.

Daily Total: $60

Day Two

6:50 a.m. — I roll out of bed and try to look presentable by spraying dry shampoo in my roots. I call it good enough, grab a granola bar, and head out. My drive takes 20 minutes on a good day, and I'm already worried I'm going to be late.

12 p.m. — My coworker and I eat lunch every day at noon. (Working at a school keeps basically every part of your life on a schedule, including using the bathroom.) We take our lunches outside, and I eat leftover chili and an apple. We talk about how groups of ninth graders drive us crazy. We have to go into their classrooms this afternoon, and I wish I was meeting with my 12th graders instead. They're more my speed.

1:10 p.m. — I forget the code to my department's laptop cart since I haven't used it since June, and a student tells me blueberries are good for the aging brain. I tell him I'm 26, and he says it's never too early to worry about my brain. He may be right.

3:45 p.m. — Freedom! I pack up my stuff a little early and drive to the gym. I'm so hungry that I buy a bag of SunChips from the vending machine and inhale them before getting changed. So much for my workout already. $1

6:30 p.m. — I invite a friend over to make dinner, and we make black bean burgers from the food I took from the cabin and my pantry. We already have the burgers in the pan when I pull my cheese out of the fridge and realize that it's embarrassingly moldy. I make the quickest grocery store run I've ever made while I leave my friend to keep an eye on the burgers. $2.99

10:15 p.m. — I'm falling asleep doing the crossword in bed when my boyfriend, C., texts me and asks if I've bought a flight to visit him in October yet. C. goes to grad school in New York, and we've been doing long distance for three years. We're able to see each other pretty frequently thanks to both of us being on the academic calendar, but I will be very, very happy when he graduates in the spring and moves back here. I pull up flights and the price is still the same as it's been for the past few weeks, which is about $125 more than I usually have to spend. I cringe. I could visit Iceland instead of him for the same amount of money. (In fact, I did once. Spring break, baby.) I bite the bullet and buy it, since it doesn't look like the price will go down. He offers to split it with me, but I make almost four times what he makes as a grad student, so I decline, and I'm pretty sure he's relieved. $440

Daily Total: $443.99

Day Three

6:50 a.m. — I wake up and scramble, since I forgot to pack my lunch and gym clothes last night. I head out the door only a few minutes late, but I forget my granola bar.

7:30 a.m. — Oops. I forgot that it's picture day. This would have been my biggest fear when I was a high school student, but luckily (or not) for me, my standards have slid. I pick up a donut in the teacher's lounge (perfect day to forget my granola bar), and go get a picture taken of my greasy hair and makeup-less face for posterity's sake. Really crushing it.

9:15 a.m. — We have a department meeting to discuss how we're going to stay afloat this fall. Literally half of our team quit the week before school started. We are scarily short-staffed, and it's taking longer to hire people than anticipated. As much as I'm frustrated by the circumstances, I get why they did it, and a selfish part of me wants to follow their lead. We don't come to any real consensus in our meeting, and we have to table a lot of our agenda items. I'm stressed and go to the vending machine to get a bag of chips. $1

12 p.m. — I eat leftover chili and an apple at my desk with the door closed since I need a few minutes of introvert time after teaching four classes in a row. Our classrooms are filled to the brim with roughly 37 students in each one thanks to budget cuts.

4:15 p.m. — I go to the gym and decide to watch Hannah Gadsby's Netflix special Nanette on my phone while I'm on the elliptical. It is so freaking powerful that I watch the whole thing right there. Wow wow wow. It's a fucking masterpiece.

6:20 p.m. — I reheat a black bean burger, look at the remaining four burgers, and regret having made so many. My stomach is not happy with this in addition to my chili.

7:30 p.m. — I drive over to my favorite spot by the Mississippi River and meet a friend. We walk along the river as the sun sets, one of my favorite things to do. The Stone Arch Bridge is maybe the reason I will never leave Minneapolis. As we stroll, we end up close to Aster Café, one of his favorite places that's kind of bougie and expensive. The patio is calling our names. We order a glass of rosé each, and we throw in a bread basket mostly for the butter. We talk about Nanette, and what it's been like for us to explore our sexualities in conservative households. We have a downright lovely evening. $14.16

11 p.m. — I get home later than I planned, since I have to wake up early to take my car into the dealership tomorrow. It was worth it though, and I go to sleep immediately after brushing my teeth.

Daily Total: $15.16

Day Four

6 a.m. — I wake up at my alarm and wish I had gone to bed earlier. I steam Trader Joe's pot stickers in the microwave to bring for lunch as I get ready. My body can't handle more beans today. I feel SO bloated.

7 a.m. — I drive out to the dealership in the suburbs. A few lights went on in my car last week and this was the soonest they could squeeze me in. After I describe the lights, the guy I'm working with tells me he thinks something may be wrong with my transmission. Fuck. I don't know a lot about cars, but I know that's not good. I go over to the person who coordinates the shuttle service since I have to leave my car, and he tells me the shuttle will take me within 10 miles of the dealership. I quickly put my work address into Google Maps and realize it's 11 miles away. I don't want to take a Lyft in horrible traffic, so I ask to be taken there anyway and cross my fingers. Lo and behold, no one puts it into a GPS to realize how far it is, and I get in the shuttle.

1:30 p.m. — I eat my pot stickers as I help students register for the ACT. It's been a busy day, and I haven't had a moment to eat until now. They all ask for a bite of my pot stickers but settle for the granola bars I keep in my desk.

5 p.m. — I get a call from the dealership that they are going to have to keep my car for a while to fix the transmission, but they will give me a free loaner car. I ask how expensive the repair is going to be, and they say there's a chance it's covered under extended warranty but they'll know more tomorrow. Please lord let it be covered. My roommate picks me up from work and drives me to the dealership in hardcore crosstown traffic. I am very, very grateful for her.

7:15 p.m. — My friend invites me over to make Moroccan chicken and watch Bachelor in Paradise, which sounds like my ideal night. I walk over to the store to buy carrots to contribute since she has everything else, and as I'm walking over to her place, I run into her roommate. He has the same idea as us, and is heading over to watch BIP with his Fantasy Bachelor League. We chat for a bit, and then go in opposite directions. $0.99

9 p.m. — It's late and we finally finish making dinner. It's worth it though, and the meal is one of the best I've had in a while. We eat in front of the TV and heckle Chris Harrison from the couch. My friend pulls out her phone to shame ABC on Twitter for their mean stunts. We really should stop watching this franchise, but I doubt we ever will.

10:50 p.m. — On my way to bed, I go through the mail and see a letter from my doctor's office. I'm confused because I thought I paid all my bills from this summer. I open it and it's for $290.65. Ouch. I pull up my HSA account on my phone, and there's $0.01 in it. Double ouch. The bill is dated from a few months ago, so I decide that if it took them this long to charge me, I'll pay it next week after $90 gets put into my HSA. It won't be as painful that way.

Daily Total: $0.99

Day Five

7:15 a.m. — I eat oatmeal in my loaner car, trying not to get it on the seats. Probably could have picked a better on-the-go breakfast since the car isn't mine, but oh well.

12 p.m. — I eat another black bean burger and salad at my desk quickly, since I have back-to-back student appointments for the rest of the school day and a meeting with my principal after school. The fall gets too busy too fast.

3:05 p.m. — I sit down to a meeting with my principal, and he tells me about an exciting grant that they applied for. He mentions that my position may be “transformed” next year because of it. As I'm sitting there, I slowly start to realize that this grant position will be in place of my current position, and the two are pretty different jobs. I start to silently freak out. I'm very confused and am not sure what this means for me. I feel like I want to cry. My principal asks if I have any questions, but this is major information overload, and I say no because I just want to get out of this meeting and shut myself in the bathroom. Maybe not the most professional move, but that's where I'm at.

3:50 p.m. — I start thinking of all of the questions I have. I'm not good at processing in the moment, but I have SO many questions now. I call C. on the way home and he talks through everything with me. He suggests this may be the kick I need to leave next year and look for something outside of education. I try to listen to him and stop spiraling down a “what if” tunnel. I really wish he were here in person.

4:45 p.m. — I make eggs and a salad quickly because I have to go back to school for Open House. Ugh. Exactly what I want to do with my evening after that meeting.

5:30 p.m. — I put on a face for families and answer their questions. I usually really like meeting with families, but I'm just not in the mood, and I spend a lot of the night sneaking cookies from the table next to mine.

8:30 p.m. — I stay late to copy, since I need to print over 1,000 pages for Monday. (Sorry, trees.) As soon as I think everyone is gone and I start my first round, a teacher looks in and complains about me hogging the work room. If I can't do my printing at 8:30 p.m. then I don't know when I can. I set the copier to go, and I'll just pick it up in the morning.

10 p.m. — Today was frustrating and long. I put Veep on in the background, and I drink a beer and eat chips and salsa as I check my phone. I see a voicemail from the dealership. My transmission is broken, but the part is covered under extended warranty. HALLELUJAH. I'll only have to pay for the gas I used in the loaner car. Nothing has ever worked out this beautifully car-wise for me before, and this cheers me up a little before bed.

Daily Total: $0

Day Six

6:45 a.m. — I wake up a little early to put on eyeshadow and mascara. I've been phasing makeup out of my life for the past year as a way to feel more comfortable in my skin, but my friend and I are going to an event straight from work, and I want to feel a little fancy.

8 a.m. — Oops. The printer got jammed after I left it last night, and our secretary is really mad at me. My coworker helps deflect the anger, but it's not a great start to the day.

9 a.m. — I eat a donut at a planning meeting for our upcoming family night, and no one wants to be responsible for any of the tasks. I don't feel like going above and beyond if my position is going to be “transformed,” but our team is stretched thin so I do an attitude check and agree to take on part of the planning. I may regret this later.

12 p.m. — I microwave a Trader Joe's tamale for lunch, and I eat it with a side salad. I went HAM at Trader Joe's last week, and my freezer is stocked full of tamales and my other favorites.

2 p.m. — I take back my unkind comments about all ninth graders. I helped the sweetest student with his résumé. If I have kids, I want a child like him.

4 p.m. — I leave work to go for drinks. For the past three years, my friend and I have gone to a local liquor store's anniversary party. Do not judge — you can drink as much beer as you want FOR FREE. And no one knows about it, so the lines aren't long and you have plenty of elbow room in their lovely backyard patio. My friend brings one of her grad school friends along this year, and they are planning on drinking here before going to some concert.

5:45 p.m. — I don't know how many beers I've had since I've just been drinking samples, but I'm feeling pretty tipsy.

7 p.m. — I'm definitely drunk, and it's only 7 p.m. My friend is flirting with one of the vendors, and he gives us two four-packs to take as we leave. She also gets his business card – for a part-time job or other reasons, I don't know.

7:15 p.m. — My friend convinces me to come over before they go to their concert, so I hop in her car since I can't drive mine anyway. I figure I'll just hang out and sober up at their place before taking a Lyft back to my car. I pay for her parking with my parking app since she drove. $4.75

9:45 p.m. — I am drunk at the concert venue. I think I'm seeing Dispatch…? I send C. a snap to have him confirm. This is a very different night than I had planned. My friend convinced me to come with her, and I have had enough beers that anything would be fun. I give the ticket booth my credit card, but I have no idea how much they charge me — I'll look tomorrow. We head to the front and dance. The show is really great, whoever they are.

12:30 a.m. — We walk back to my friend's place, and I'm sobered up enough to drive so she drops me off at my car. The perks of doing all your drinking before 7 p.m.!

1:10 a.m. — I'm craving McDonald's really bad. I go through the drive-through praying that my student who works at this location isn't working. Not here, thank god. I get a cheeseburger and fries, and I pass out as soon as I get home. $3.12

Daily Total: $7.87

Day Seven

8:05 a.m. — I wake up and look at my phone. How am I up this early. I try to go back to sleep since my head hurts a little.

8:30 a.m. — It's not happening, I'm not falling back asleep. I chug water and pull out my phone to see what I spent on a ticket last night. $45. Not great, especially considering I'm not exactly sure it was Dispatch. But oh well, I had fun and hadn't seen live music in a few months. I get up and make myself a bagel with cream cheese. $45

12 p.m. — I get hungry at noon on the dot, even on the weekends. I make myself eggs with an apple, but it's not super satisfying.

2:15 p.m. — I walk over to the gym to see if that will help my body detox. I struggle on the elliptical for 20 minutes before my roommate texts me to see if I want to go to the Blue Door Pub, one of my favorite restaurants. Hell yes. I do five more minutes on the elliptical, and then peace out.

3:15 p.m. — While this place is known for their burgers, I am really craving wings. I order half BBQ and half buffalo, and it is exactly what my semi-hungover body wants. $14.60

5:45 p.m. — I pick up groceries for a potluck-style dinner at my friend's house. The wings kind of ruined my appetite, but I get fancy olives, carrots, and celery to go with hummus I already have, plus chicken thighs to put in my freezer for later and Oreos. $13.15

6:30 p.m. — People brought very random things, a sign that we are not truly adults yet. I fill my plate with a turkey and dried cherry pasta salad, olives, Milano cookies, and ants on a log. I pass on the rosé.

8:30 p.m. — I cave and agree to go to a bar. My friend is raving about this new place called Tap Society that lets you pour your own beer. I'm intrigued as to why this would be a better experience than a normal bar, so I want to check it out for myself. We walk over to the bar, and I give the person working my card. She sets up an account for me, and explains that I pay per ounce. Guys. This is exactly like a self-serve froyo bar, BUT WITH BEER. I get it now. I turn the corner, and sure enough I see taps set up exactly like a Cherry Berry. I pour myself small servings of three different types of beers. I love being able to try different things, while also not having to drink a full beer after my adventures last night. We grab a booth and break out a game of Clue to go along with our beers. $6.02

11:20 p.m. — I get in bed, and I'm super tired. I open up Salvage the Bones, but before I know it, my eyes are heavy, and I barely manage to turn out the light before falling asleep.

Daily Total: $78.77

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Melania Trump Wears Another Controversial Outfit — This Time With A Disturbing History

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Once again, Melania Trump is coming under fire for an outfit selection.

This time, the criticism for wearing a pith helmet, which many say has direct ties to European imperialism and colonialism, while on a safari in Kenya.

According to Quartzy, the pith helmet was often worn by the British soldiers who colonized Africa and India in the 19th century. This means that wearing one today, as Trump did, might be seen as a lack of understanding about African culture at best and as a symbol of oppression at worst.

“That pith helmet you have carried was used by colonialists during the dark days. Doesn’t sit well with us Africans,” Nairobi resident Pauline Mwalo wrote on Twitter. “Who advised you?”

Trump, who is touring Ghana, Malawi, Kenya, and Egypt, told reporters in Egypt, “I wish people would focus on what I do, not what I wear,” according to the Washington Post.

At this point, sartorial controversies are, ahem, old hat for Trump. In June, the first lady prompted public outrage for wearing a jacket that said “I really don’t care. Do U?” while boarding a plane to visit detained migrant children. She also rose eyebrows when she wore a pink Gucci “pussy bow” blouse to an October 2016 presidential debate shortly after a recording of her husband bragging about sexually assaulting women leaked, in which he said it was easy for him to “grab ‘em by the pussy.”

In fact, Trump has had so many clothing-based PR snafus that some have suggested that her wardrobe is sometimes used as a distraction technique by the Trump administration when there are more pressing things going on. So, should that be the case here, let us not be distracted: thanks to a white woman, Judge Brett Kavanaugh is almost certainly going to be confirmed as a Supreme Court justice, President Donald Trump has mocked a survivor of sexual assault, and Ivanka Trump continues to be complicit in her father’s administration.

Also, that helmet? It probably wasn’t the best choice.

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Brett Kavanaugh Confirmed To The Supreme Court Following Senate Vote

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Judge Brett Kavanaugh has been confirmed to become the next justice of the United States Supreme Court.

The Senate gathered for a vote on Saturday afternoon, in which Kavanaugh was confirmed, 50 to 48. Per The New York Times, the decision followed hours of speeches from senators who took the floor, and as Vice President Mike Pence presided over the final vote, the gallery erupted into s creaming protests that disrupted the start of the vote. The protesters continued to interrupt the vote intermittently and were forcibly removed by the Senate's Sergeant at Arms. Pro- and anti-Kavanaugh protesters gathered outside the Capitol building all day.

The vote was made possible by the last-minute support of Republican Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Jeff Flake of Arizona, along with Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia. The senators’ endorsement ensured Kavanaugh’s final confirmation, despite multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, strong Democratic opposition, and national backlash that has made Kavanaugh a historically unpopular Supreme Court nominee. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski remained a no, but voted "present" due to fellow Republican Senator Steve Daines's inability to be there and vote yes because he was attending his daughter's wedding. Murkowski noted that their votes would not change the outcome.

Kavanaugh has denied the allegations against him, which include sexual assault, attempted rape, exposing himself, and thrusting his penis in someone's face without consent. The claims culminated in a high-profile hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where Dr. Christine Blasey Ford testified that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted and attempted to rape her when they were teenagers.

A limited FBI investigation into the allegations, which Republicans say found no evidence corroborating the claims against Kavanaugh, wrapped last week. According to The New York Times, only nine people were interviewed during the investigation. Kavanaugh and Ford were not on that list. Multiple news outlets, including The New Yorker and NBC News, also revealed that dozens of other people who could have spoken about the case were not approached by the FBI.

President Donald Trump said to reporters ahead of the vote, "[Brett Kavanaugh] will be a great justice of the Supreme Court, people have thought that for 10 years. They've thought he's an extraordinary person, a great talent. He's going to make us very proud. I also felt very strongly that in the end, maybe the process — it was really unattractive — but the extra week was something that was really good...I think a lot of very positive things happened in the last week. It didn't look that way, but in the end that's what happened. [Dr. Blasey Ford's testimony] was uncorroborated, it was so many different things."

Over the last few days, he also tweeted his approval of the Senate’s decision to push forward the vote, his support of “Women for Kavanaugh” demonstrators, and his criticism of protesters at Capitol Hill, making unsubstantiated claims that they were “paid professionals.”

Kavanaugh’s confirmation, especially in the lead-up to next month’s midterm elections, has immediately sparked speculation as to what comes next. Kavanaugh will be sworn in to take retired justice Anthony Kennedy’s seat on the court, but considering the entrenched Democratic opposition to Kavanaugh's appointment, the possibility of impeachment has been floated. According to The Washington Post, some Democrats are considering making Kavanaugh’s impeachment a 2020 campaign platform. The Post also reports that experts believe that if Democrats take back the House, there’s a chance impeachment proceedings could be introduced in the next Congress — although it’s difficult to estimate the likelihood of that option panning out until after November.

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Women Must Stop Playing By The Rules After Brett Kavanaugh's Confirmation

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There’s no sugarcoating it: the decision of 50 senators to usher a likely sexual predator onto the Supreme Court is devastating. Brett Kavanaugh’s tenure on the court will prove an existential threat to women, queer people, people of color, immigrants, people with disabilities, and anyone else inadequately alpha for Justice Boof. Not just because of how his reactionary politics will shape the court, though they undoubtedly will. The decision is also catastrophic because of how it has degraded the court, and all of us, by elevating of a man who appears to have committed multiple sexual assaults – a man who lied under oath so often and so recklessly it is hard to believe he even knows what truth is, a man so nakedly partisan and emotionally unhinged that you wouldn’t hire him to dog-sit.

But the fight against Kavanaugh still mattered, and not just in a moral way. We fought hard enough that the men in power were forced to remove their masks entirely. They’ve now told us in the starkest terms that no matter how well we play by their rules, we cannot win their recognition of our humanity. Dr. Christine Blasey Ford literally came to their vaunted halls, submitted to their arbitrary hearing rules, answered every question on their agenda to the best of her ability, was deferential and helpful and apologetic and collegial and calm and smart and heartfelt and a little fragile, but not hysterical. Not to mention white and from a wealthy, well-connected family. And yet, they ran over her like the runaway train she predicted they would be. They did not even bother to come up with good reasons why.

Maybe you already knew this. Surely Black women raped by police know this, as do immigrants raped by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and Native women and girls whom the federal government has systematically dehumanized through sexual violence for as long as it has existed. But 45% of white women still supported Kavanaugh’s nomination according to a Quinnipiac poll, so it bears repeating: no matter how good you are at their game, if you get in the way of their power, they will muffle your screams and tell everyone they were never even there.

Coming on the one-year anniversary of the Harvey Weinstein story that launched #MeToo into celebrity consciousness, you will no doubt hear that this vote is a sign that women have gone too far in our demands for sovereignty. That if we don’t want to lose even more ground we should trim our sails and shrink back into our britches. But #MeToo wasn’t born last fall, and it sure as hell can’t be revoked by sexual abusers and their enablers. They’ve already shown us that we’re never going to matter to them. These are our bodies and our movements and we’re done bargaining over them with moral monsters.

Not that this is strictly about Republican malfeasance. We may have been spared a replay of the bipartisan degradation of Anita Hill, but the fact that men on the left have become willing to stand with survivors when it happens to align with their political goals is a small solace. Call me when they are as full-throated in condemning the next Al Franken as they were Kavanaugh. Hell, ping me when they manage to stop arguing for the redemption of lefty-darling men, like Louis C.K., who haven’t lifted a finger to actually redeem themselves.

That’s not to say that nothing has changed since 1991. Hill’s bravery famously launched the Year of the Woman, a history-making wave of women running for and winning elected office. Less famously, it galvanized what’s now known as the third wave of feminism, led by young women, especially women of color, who learned exactly the right lesson from the spectacle of misogynoir that Joe Biden presided over: they don’t love us. They’re never going to love us. We might as well make our own rules.

Three decades later, the girls who were raised on riot grrrl and reproductive justice are now at the height of their adult power. Many of them also have children of their own. Those children have just spent weeks listening to some of the most powerful men in the world declare that attempted rape is normal behavior for 17-year-old boys and that shoving your penis in a woman’s face doesn’t count if she’s drunk. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t worried about the impact this will have on them, and you should be too. But between third-wave parenting and the alternative knowledge paths made possible by the social media and the internet, the upcoming generations are more prepared than they even were in Hill’s moment to learn some of the right lessons from this, too.

What’s more, we don’t need to wonder if we’ll be getting a new Year of the Woman inspired by Blasey Ford, because a huge one is well underway. But breaking into the halls of power will only matter if we use that access to tear the doors off their hinges. For that to happen, we need to heed the recent words of Glennon Doyle: “Women have no government. We are ungoverned, so we will become ungovernable.”

That means organized resistance, for sure. Doyle herself is already calling for weekly mass actions. But let’s become ungovernable on a cellular level, too. This naked negation of our humanity by the men who hold our lives in their hands is shattering. Nearly every woman I know is suffering from it as I write. I’ve been sleepless and sick to my stomach for weeks, spacey and jumpy. My body has decided it’s less painful to distract me with these symptoms than to let me feel the full weight of what is happening.

But in a weird way, I want to feel it all. A long time ago, I stopped letting myself feel my own trauma. I did it because I became an expert on sexual assault; you can’t be both a victim and an expert. Those are the rules from on high. If you’re emotional about your own experience, you’re damaged and therefore unreliable as an expert. If you’re an expert, you’re smart and cunning and probably lying about the whole thing. (I saw that argument on Twitter just last week during Blasey Ford’s testimony.)

That kind of bifurcation is its own kind of violence. And it doesn’t even work — I still hear every kind of excuse about why I’m unreliable. I’m bitter because no men want me. I’m an unrepentant slut who wants to destroy Western civilization with my vagina. I’m a power-mad feminist operative working to enslave men in my Soros-funded matriarchy.

I miss my feelings. Even the most excruciating ones make me feel alive, help me to connect to people, make me capable of love and joy and hope and care. So when I say we need to stop playing by their rules, I don’t just mean we should get angry. There are tremendously important conversations happening this year about the power of women and rage and I am all the way here for anger. But I mean so much more, too. If the Senate Judiciary Committee is going to issue official press releases slut-shaming a survivor based on only the say-so of her ex, then we might as well enjoy ourselves however we see fit. If they’re going to say we’re too ugly to be raped, why should we care what they consider beautiful? If it doesn’t matter how composed we remain against incredible odds, then what’s stopping us from weeping in the streets? If they’re going to pit “good girls” against “bad girls” for all of time, only to throw the good girls under the bus without a second thought, let’s stop shaming each other and focus on just loving each other with abandon.

There are no more fig leaves or excuses. There is only the stark truth: they don’t care about us when we adhere to their rules, but they do start to care when we corner them in their private elevators in front of the national press. If you listen closely, they are telling us our power. When Orrin Hatch tells survivors to “grow up,” he’s telling us he can’t deal with adult women. When President Donald Trump tells men to fear the nearly nonexistent possibility of being falsely accused of rape, but not to fear the much more likely occurrence that they may themselves be raped, he’s telling us he sees women with autonomy as a malignant threat.

So let’s be one. Let this be the final stake in the heart of gender respectability politics. Let's cry in public and dare anyone to call us less powerful for it. Let’s love each other harder than they hate us. Let's be fat, angry, grieving, ugly, slutty, frigid, foreign, dark, broken, confused, crazy, queer, tender-hearted vengeance demons. Let's yell our truth at senators and justices and whomever else we feel like yelling at that day, not even because we believe it will change their minds, but simply because we want to. We play by our own rules now.

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8 Charcoal Drugstore Beauty Buys We Can't Get Enough Of This Fall

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Activated charcoal is one of those hero ingredients that we can’t get enough of here at Refinery29 — and we certainly use the beauty products to prove it. From deep-cleansing face masks that reset our complexion after accidentally falling asleep in our makeup (yes, it happens) to acne-fighting pore strips that banish any pesky oncoming breakouts, our top shelves are stacked with more than a few detoxifying charcoal buys.

That being said, we asked our fellow R29 staffers to dish on their all-time-favorite charcoal beauty picks from CVS. Because with the stress and long days that come with the busy fall season, we need all the at-home TLC we can get. Check out the spa-worthy charcoal products they swear by ahead — from purifying shampoos to cleansing micellar water — and bookmark this page for your next trip down the beauty aisle.

"I love using this K-beauty mask to reset my skin after a particularly stressful week. I'll apply and let it dry for a few minutes, then enjoy the most fun part: taking it off. Working from one side, I'll peel the thin layer off my face in one gradual go — literally pulling out any impurities from my pores. Trust me on this one: It's weirdly, insanely satisfying." —Jen Anderson, lifestyle writer



Peach and Lily Charcoal Crystal Peel Off Mask, $9.99, available at CVS

"I honestly didn't know what to expect from a bubble sheet mask. It looks like every other sheet mask, but then it starts to foam and bubble — making my face feel like it's covered in little Champagne bubbles. After just 15 minutes, my face is clean and refreshed, without feeling stripped or dry. Not to mention, it also makes for a great impromptu IG Story filter." —Emily Mannix, associate director, talent castings and partnerships



Masque Bar Masque Bar Oxygen Bubble Bamboo Charcoal Sheet Mask, $3.49, available at CVS

"I love products that are multipurpose — and this guy provides not two but three different services. How killer is that? I love how this face wash, scrub, and mask really clears out my pores and caters to my oily complexion. My skin always feels amazing after using it." —Anissa Richmond, supervising producer, branded video



Garnier Garnier SkinActive Charcoal 3-in-1 , $7.99, available at CVS

"I’ve used charcoal everything: face masks, washes, toothpaste — you name it. It seems only natural, then, that my next charcoal obsession would be shampoo. I am always looking for ways to give my hair and scalp a good detox after product overload, and the fact that this one is color safe is an additional bonus." —Isabella Alesci, associate photo editor



Herbal Essences Herbal Essences Bio:Renew Detox Black Charcoal Shampoo, $6.99, available at CVS

"This is the perfect travel face mask to help de-stress my skin and rejuvenate my natural glow. I love the compact size, which makes it an easy grab for any girl on the go. The stick packaging also makes for a way less messy application, which any bathroom sink will appreciate." —Lilac Perez, associate casting director



Olay Olay Mask Stick, $12.99, available at CVS

"Adding this charcoal cleanser to my beauty regime has been a complete game changer. I love that it makes my skin feel squeaky clean while also clearing up and preventing any low-key breakouts. The built-in brush is an added bonus that I didn't even know I needed! Next on my charcoal endeavors: charcoal toothpaste." —Hannah Bullion, associate social media editor



Yes To Tomatoes Charcoal Oxygenated Foaming Cleanser, $9.99, available at CVS

"Whenever the season changes, my skin tends to freak out a bit. I'll use this clarifying charcoal mask to give my complexion a little extra love, rid my pores of any dirt or bacteria, and gently even out my skin's texture. It's perfect for a wind-down activity at night or on a Sunday afternoon with a good book in hand. I'm feeling Zen just thinking about it." —Carolyn Negri, associate project manager



JOAH Skin Polish Charcoal Wash Off Mask, $5.99, available at CVS

"I swear by micellar water for giving me a deep cleanse without ever leaving my skin feeling tight or dry, and this charcoal option from Bioré is particularly top-notch. The activated charcoal leaves my pores feeling ultra fresh, gets rid of any and all traces of makeup, and gives me that natural, lit-from-within glow when I'm done." —Paulina Canini, senior project manager



Biore Charcoal Cleansing Micellar Water, $7.99, available at CVS

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Brett Kavanaugh Sworn In As Supreme Court Justice In Private Ceremony

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Following his confirmation late Saturday afternoon, Brett Kavanaugh has been sworn in as a Justice on the Supreme Court in a private ceremony. Retired Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy administered the Judicial Oath in front of Kavanaugh's family in Justices' Conference Room of the Supreme Court in Washington, DC shortly after the his confirmation passed the Senate.

Kavanaugh was confirmed by a narrow vote of 50 to 48. He is a a historically unpopular Supreme Court nominee.

The contentious vote was repeatedly interrupted by protesters who shouted as various members of the Senate attempted to cast their vote. As many as 50 people were reportedly arrested for interrupting the vote.

"If they think we will be silenced by a bunch of patriarchal men screaming order to take our rights away, they have another thing coming" said Winnie Wong, Senior Advisor to the Women’s March, who was on the Senate Gallery Floor during the vote. "Our time of behaving is long over. Justice Kavanaugh better get used to protests and disruptions, because he is going to have us fighting every step of the way for the rest of his time on the bench. Shame on everyone who supported him. Dissent is the highest form of patriotism, and millions of strong American women are ready to mobilize more than any time in history."

Kavanaugh is alleged to have committed sexual assault, attempted rape, exposing himself, and thrusting his penis in someone's face without consent. He denies the allegations.

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Confessions Of A Top Celebrity Facialist

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Joanna Vargas has been an aesthetician for two decades and calls stars like Mandy Moore, Emma Roberts, P.Diddy, and Elisabeth Moss her clients. She has a line of skin-care products and her signature Supernova facia l has become one of the most sought after non-invasive skin treatments amongst the Hollywood elite. Here she shares how she went from being an aspiring photographer to the person actresses call rely on for glowing skin. The following interview was told to Aimee Simeon and edited for length and clarity.

From Photographer To Facialist
"Beauty products were the one thing I always had around me from a young age. At 4-years-old, I had a collection full of bubble bath soap, perfume, and Coco-Cola-flavored lip gloss. Anything you could think of with cute packaging, I had it. I started getting facials in high school but I didn’t consider it as a career or life until I moved to New York City. I studied photography and women’s studies at University of Chicago and I just assumed that I would move to New York and become a photographer. That didn’t happen. So I went to beauty school in hopes of getting closer to my original love for makeup.

"I originally wanted to become a makeup artist, but once I started learning about facials and skin care in beauty school, I completely fell in love with making women feel confident about their bare faces. So, I started working at an organic day spa. That is where I discovered that I wanted to have my own business. I started my salon in 2006 and I never looked back. At that time there wasn't a big category for organic, results-oriented products like there is now. I really didn't have clean, efficacious products that I could do facials with, so I also started developing my own product line to use on my clients.

A Glowing Client Roster
"When I first started in this business I had no clue that I would end up working with all of these amazing people. My first celebrity client was Rachel Weisz, and I met her through another client. We developed a relationship for many years and it's been history ever since. A lot of celebrities end up on my table because of makeup artists. They sit in the makeup chair and artists would notice the difference in someone’s skin and then send their clients to me. Majority of my celeb clients have come through word of mouth.

"To cater to everyone and I try to keep all my travels between New York and L.A., but I end up all over London and Europe, too. I’ve found that the best way to deal with my actress clients is to work on their skin frequently in-between filming, so that everything looks great for the duration of their project. I try to get everyone on a good program and regimen to avoid emergencies — but, of course, they still happen. I’ve had clients filming in foreign areas who would call me freaking out because of how their skin reacted to the environment. My first solution is ship them products overnight, but I’ve definitely gotten up at crazy hours in the morning to do facials if it was the only free time my client had. I’d do anything for a client who really needs me.

Working With Elisabeth Moss

"Elisabeth was actually a word of mouth client. I met her through her makeup artist Daniel Martin, and we've been together for about two years now. Like all of my clients, my goal for Elisabeth is to keep her skin glowing when she doesn't have makeup on, and to strengthen it so it can withstand stressors (like lack of sleep and set lights). I do a ton of LED light therapy when she's in town and not filming. Her skin is pretty sensitive, so that treatment is perfect because it’s gentle and non-irritating. She also loves cryotherapy and uses Rescue Serum in her daily regimen.

"As an esthetician, it isn't my job to condemn you if you haven't been doing the 'right' stuff or following a perfect regimen. My job is to figure out what is best for your skin in spite of your schedule, diet, and daily routine."

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Saturday Night Live Skewers Susan Collins For Her Kavanaugh Support

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The news cycle has been tough to follow this week — but luckily, Saturday Night Live is here to help us laugh while we’re screaming into a pillow.

Last night, the show went after Maine Senator Susan Collins. It’s safe to say that Collins is not everyone’s favorite person right now. In the cold open, Cecily Strong perfectly captured the senator’s willingness to reject Dr. Christine Blasey Ford’s testimony and support embattled Judge Brett Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court.

The sketch opens with Kenan Thompson as Don Lemon, who is anchoring a news report. “There have been protests in Washington, and several cry breaks here at CNN,” echoing all of us who heard the news on Saturday. He hands off the segment to correspondent Dana Bash, who is portrayed by Heidi Gardner, and we cut to the GOP locker room celebration of Kavanaugh’s confirmation. The party is modeled after a post-sports celebration, which is exactly what this moment feels like for Republicans. The format is especially potent, given Kavanaugh’s athletic and fraternity background.

“We couldn’t have done it with Susan Collins,” says Kate McKinnon, in her recurring role as Senator Lindsey Graham. “Susie, get over here!” She motions over to Strong, who captures Collins’ reluctance to appear in the spotlight.

Strong points out the irony of Collins’ speech on the Senate floor, where she voiced her support for Kavanaugh. “Oh please, the last thing I wanted to do was make this about me,” she says. “That’s why I told everyone to tune at 3 p.m. to watch me tell all of my female supporters, ‘Psych!’”

When asked by Bash if she believed that Kavanaugh did not commit sexual assault, Strong as Collins said, “Listen, I think it’s important to believe women, until it’s time to stop. I also believe, you know, that I’m a guy’s gal. I can party with the big dogs, woo woo! We’re going to have fun tonight!” Two other senators call Collins their number one — and only — woman in the group.

It’s funny because it’s true, and it’s funny because it hurts, and sometimes we just need to deal with news by laughing at it.

You can watch the cold open below. Saturday Night Live airs Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. EST on NBC.

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A Week In New York City On A $55,000 Salary

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Welcome toMoney Diaries , where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.

We're going on book tour for our new book, Money Diaries: Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Your Finances... and Everyone Else's. Next stop: Dallas on Tuesday, October 9! Grab your tickets here!

Today: a paralegal working in legal who makes $55,000 per year and spends some of her money this week on tea.

Occupation: Paralegal
Industry: Legal
Age: 23
Location: New York, NY
Salary: $55,000
Paycheck Amount (Biweekly): $1,537
Monthly Side Hustle Income: I make anywhere from $100 to $300 from mystery shopping, and $100 to $400 from content editing. It tends to vary a lot by season, though, and usually the total from both is in the $200 to $500 range.

Monthly Expenses
Rent: $900 for my share. My ex-boyfriend, who I currently still live with (see more on this below), pays $1,200.
Student Loan Payment: $50
Medical & Dental Insurance: $0 (I am on my dad's insurance.)
MetroCard: $121 for unlimited monthly card
Utilities: ~$50 for my share, which includes electricity and internet
Cell Phone: $75
Donations: $50 to a local Humane Society
Gym: $0 (I got a free year-long membership through mystery shopping.)
AMC Stubs A-List: $19.99
Tidal: $14.99
HBO Go: $7.50 (My ex and I split this.)
Roth IRA: $300 (My current employer doesn't offer a 401(k), so I make the max annual contribution to my Roth IRA. I have $10,000 in it right now.)
Savings: $700 (I have $20,000 in a two-year CD. I also have a $10,000 emergency fund in a high-yield savings account, and about $500 invested with Robinhood just for fun.)
Travel Fund: $400 (I have $1,600 in it right now.)

Day One

7:45 a.m. — I awake to the sound of A. leaving for work. With a sinking feeling, I remember that he is now my ex. We broke up a few days ago after three and a half years together and four months into a new lease. I wasn't really expecting it, but it also needed to happen. I'm still getting used to the idea, and am trying to figure out what to do about the apartment. He said he's perfectly fine with riding out the lease, since moving out would be very costly for us both. The thought of staying is weird, but so is the thought of moving out.

8 a.m. — I'm up and getting dressed for work. I have a pretty easy commute, and I'm not a breakfast person, so I get to sleep in relatively late. After throwing on some tinted moisturizer and mascara (my makeup routine is down to five minutes ever since I got my brows microbladed — would highly recommend!), I'm out the door by 8:30.

8:55 a.m. — I pass a pair of dirty women's underwear on the ground at the subway station where I transfer. I love New York!

9:10 a.m. — The train was running slow and local, so it takes me longer than usual to get to the office. Most of the attorneys don't get here until 10, so it doesn't really matter exactly when I get in as long as it's before 9:45. But I usually like to get here earlier to get a head start on the day without any interruptions. I make a Mandarin tea using the office's Keurig and settle in at my desk.

11 a.m. — After powering through some basic organizational tasks, I take some time to work on a coding project. My workload varies wildly depending on my cases, but I normally have a lot of down time. My bosses are very laid-back, and they don't mind if I work on side projects when I have nothing else to do. Lately, I've been brushing up my coding skills. As much as I like the people here, I'm not as interested in the practice of law as I thought I was going to be, so I've decided not to go to law school. That was my plan since I was 15, so it was a big decision to make and I'm still adjusting to it. I'm thinking about moving into the tech sector, and although I don't want an engineering role, I enjoy coding and want to improve.

12:35 p.m. — Time for lunch! The main perk of my job is that lunch in the building's café is free. I grab some tuna and salmon nigiri, a side salad, berries, and an Ito En jasmine tea. The other paralegals and I chat about office drama.

1:30 p.m. — I handle a minor but ridiculous graphic design crisis after we return from lunch. Since it's a small office, the paralegals get to wear many hats. Some days that's a good thing, but today, not so much.

5:15 p.m. — We all head out a bit early since it's been a slow day. I hop on the subway using my monthly pass to meet my best friend, L., for happy hour. Once we're at the bar, we get two drinks each while catching up on each other's weekends. She generously covers my drinks.

7:30 p.m. — Another friend of ours wants to meet up, so we both walk back to my place after happy hour to change. I pick up some Amazon packages on the way in — supplies for the Caribbean cruise A. and I were supposed to be taking in a few days. His timing really sucks. It's with my sister and her girlfriend, though, so I'll still have fun without him.

8:30 p.m. — L. and I meet up with our friend at a somewhat divey bar in Hell's Kitchen. He insists we order frozen mojitos and tequila shots. We swap dating horror stories, and I feel better. $24

10:30 p.m. — We decide some food is in order, and stop at a nearby diner. I get a grilled cheese and curly fries, with ranch, of course. By the end of the meal, we're tired and a bit drunk, so we just split the bill three ways. $21

12 a.m. — I get a call from a friend as I'm walking out of the subway. I fill her in on what happened with A. as I walk home, since she's out of town at the moment. She's incredibly comforting, as always. I'm so glad I have such great friends to rely on. I chat with her on the stoop for a few more minutes before going inside, since I know A. is asleep already and I don't want to wake him. After a quick shower, I do my nightly “routine” of just one step. I have super, super sensitive skin that reacts badly to a ton of stuff, so all I can do is slap on some prescription moisturizer and call it a day. Then I get into bed and quickly pass out.

Daily Total: $45

Day Two

7:30 a.m. — I awake again to the sound of A. leaving. I try to fall back asleep but am unsuccessful, so I get up. After my quick routine, I'm out the door. I stop by the mailbox and am happy to discover that one of my mystery shopping paychecks has arrived.

9:10 a.m. — The train is slow again today, so I get in a bit later than usual. I grab a bottle of water from the office kitchen, since I feel a strong need to hydrate after last night. I settle in at my desk and check my Robinhood account before getting started on some case law research.

11 a.m. — I get a lead on a new editing job, and I spend some time researching the company. I'm surprised to see that the rate is about a fifth of my usual — maybe the projects are much quicker? I apply anyway, since if it turns out that I have to move soon, I'll need all the extra income I can get.

12:30 p.m. — I head down to lunch in the café with my coworkers. I get an Ito En tea with arugula salad, some fruit, and a few fried green beans because I couldn't resist. We discuss my living situation, and they are adamant that I move out ASAP. Sigh.

3 p.m. — I finish prepping trial materials and take a few minutes to review my monthly expenses and cash flow. With my three different side hustles, money comes in erratically throughout the month, so I spend a fair amount of time keeping track of it all. I don't take the extra income into account when I make my monthly budget, since I don't want to rely on it. Instead, I transfer whatever's leftover in my checking account into savings at the end of the month (in addition to my pre-budgeted savings). I'm happy to see that I can probably save about $500 extra this month.

4:45 p.m. — Done with work for the day, so I browse apartment listings on StreetEasy for a bit. I see some cute studios within my budget — they're certainly much more than I pay now, but I can technically afford them if I reduce my savings and travel budgets. On principle, I'm not crazy about the idea of spending more than a third of my take-home pay on rent. I get that this is New York and it's not unusual to pay more, but some of these are over 40% of my current take-home, which is too much.

5:10 p.m. — Most of my office has left already due to the Jewish holiday, so I leave a bit early to meet a friend for a mac and cheese happy hour in Flatiron. $13

6:30 p.m. — After dinner, we grab tea at a nearby coffee shop and talk about her job — she works at an startup that's currently hiring. The work sounds interesting, and she says she really enjoys it, so I'll think about applying. $4

7 p.m. — The weather has cleared up, so I suck it up and walk the three avenues to the train. When I get home, I pick up some packages: more supplies for the cruise (biodegradable sunscreen, etc.) and a new Alexander McQueen cardholder to replace my old one, which is falling apart. A. gets home shortly after, and we have a brief but civil — even friendly — conversation about our respective days. He tells me he's decided to go to his hometown for a few days while I'm on the cruise. I agree that it's a good idea. Taking some time to regroup away from the city will be helpful for us both.

10 p.m. — I search for jobs while watching a few episodes of the new season of The Great British Bake Off. I see a few promising opportunities — ones I actually might be qualified for — but I'm a bit nervous about the prospect of leaving my current job sooner than I'd anticipated. Even though I'm not ready to apply to anything just yet, I still save some postings. Then it's 30 minutes of teeth whitening strips, a quick shower, and off to bed.

Daily Total: $17

Day Three

5:30 a.m. — I'm awakened by A. getting up to test the A/C. It wasn't working when I went to bed, and he's been tossing and turning all night, which was making it hard for me to sleep. The A/C is working again, but I'm awake now, and my brain decides it's time to dwell on stressful things.

8 a.m. — I manage to fall asleep for about 45 minutes before my alarm goes off. I can't bring myself to care about my appearance today, so I do my morning routine faster than usual, and am out the door in 20 minutes.

8:50 a.m. — The trains actually worked today, so I arrive at the office at my normal time for the first time this week. After grabbing some water from the kitchen, I settle in at my desk and notice that the tickets to the Leon Bridges concert that A. and I were supposed to attend have sold. The email says I'll get the money in five business days.

10 a.m. — Today is a Jewish holiday, so I expect work to be extremely slow today. I do a few quick organizational tasks and have basically finished my work for the day. I take a minute to pay off my credit cards, since Friday is payday. I have four credit cards — my original starter card I got five years ago, a great general rewards card, a dining and travel rewards card, and a high signup bonus card. I rarely use the first one; I just put a few charges on it every few months to keep it active, since while I have a high credit score, my average account age is low due to my newer cards. Right now, I'm primarily using the high bonus card since I have to meet the minimum spend by November. I was planning to use the credits on airfare for a Greece trip with A. next summer, but now, who knows.

12:30 p.m. — There are literally three people in the office today, so I'm annoyed we didn't just get the day off. Luckily, one of the partners tells me I can leave early. I do a quick research project for him until lunch. I get an arugula salad, some berries, and a dollop of hummus with an Ito En. My coworker and I discuss his nightmare roommates, and I'm reminded of how very much I don't want to live with strangers again. (I had a very bad experience before living with A.)

1:30 p.m. — After lunch, I work on my résumé, retooling it so I can have a version for each type of job I plan to apply to. I spend another hour or so perusing AngelList. I see more incredible opportunities, which is encouraging but also makes me feel a bit pressured time-wise. I force the stressful thoughts aside so I can turn to some coding.

3 p.m. — I'm free! I decide to run across the street to Sephora to pick up a concealer that actually matches my skin tone. I rarely repurchase products (there's just so much to try!), but this time I go back to Urban Decay Naked Skin. It's thick, which I like, but doesn't give me milia (those annoying little flesh-colored bumps) like other rich formulas do. $13

4 p.m. — After an insanely slow trip uptown, I'm finally off the train. I head into a nail salon close-ish to my apartment for a pre-cruise pedicure and gel manicure. They tell me the wait is half an hour, but I like this place since they include a free Baby Foot-style foot peel with a pedicure, so I wait. I don't get pedicures too often, but I always have my fingernails done. I think it's something to do with the fact that I wasn't allowed to wear nail polish until I was 18 (Catholic schools, smh). $68

6:10 p.m. — Two whole hours later, I emerge with peach-pink nails. As I walk home, a random man decides to walk beside me and sing/shout “Sweet Dreams” at me. I've lived here for over a year and am still not quite used to the constant barrage of street harassment.

8 p.m. — While waiting for my nails to dry fully, I have a Wallaby peach Greek yogurt. I don't have much of an appetite today, so I probably won't eat a full dinner. Afterwards, I head to the gym. There's been a lot going on this week, and I'm pretty mentally and physically exhausted, so I'll probably only make it to the gym twice. Normally, I try to go three to four times a week.

9:30 p.m. — I'm home, showered, and settled on the couch with a glass of wine from my Winc delivery (this is my first shipment — not sure how I feel about it yet). A. gets home, and we chat a bit. I'm conscious of new boundaries as we talk, but it feels very normal. We watch the first episode of the (very terrible) new Jack Ryan series before going to bed.

Daily Total: $81

Day Four

8:10 a.m. — I get up after hitting snooze once. I try the new concealer, and it's still a bit too yellow for my skin tone. Sigh.

9:10 a.m. — The train was both horrifically slow and horribly crowded today. I get into the office and give one of the admins the receipt from a client lunch to expense. Then I grab some water from the kitchen and settle in.

9:40 a.m. — I check Southwest and notice their prices have gone down for the New Orleans flight I've been looking at. I buy the ticket using my credit card. I'll transfer the money from my travel savings account later. $240

11:10 a.m. — I check my email and see emails from two of my main retail weaknesses: ThirdLove and Reformation. ThirdLove has restocked their lace plunge bra in my size! I'm a 30G, so bra shopping tends to be a struggle. I like that ThirdLove has extended sizing, including half sizing, and their products are gorgeous and so high-quality. (I swear I don't work for them.) As for Reformation, they've released a new line of alpaca sweaters, and I love fall and am a sucker for a cozy sweater. I browse but I don't buy anything. I like to keep things on a wishlist for a month or so, and if I still want them, I'll budget for and buy them. But I suspect I won't want this $250 sweater in a month.

12:35 p.m. — Lunchtime! Probably because of my failure to eat dinner yesterday, I'm feeling the need for carbs, so I get a vegetable quesadilla and Ito En.

2 p.m. — I get a new case and spent the rest of my workday reviewing the materials.

5 p.m. — My boss comes to my desk to discuss holiday scheduling. I get the days I wanted for Thanksgiving, so I book that flight (on my card, with the money to be transferred from my travel fund later). He also generously gives me another Friday in December so I can fly to San Francisco for my sister's college graduation. But the majority of my office doesn't celebrate Christmas, so he only wants to give me Christmas Eve and Christmas — meaning I'd have to fly home from California on Christmas night. I gratefully accept the other days for now and decide to bring up the Christmas issue again later. $510

6 p.m. — I head to St. Mark's for a quick pre-movie dinner at a fun Korean fusion place with L. and another friend. We each order a few small plates and complain about our respective job struggles. Our other friend has been searching for a job for quite awhile now with no success, which makes me a bit nervous about my own impending job search. After dinner, I notice that the editing job I applied to a few days ago wants to set up an interview! I schedule it for after I return from the cruise. $16

7:30 p.m. — We walk a few blocks to the movie theater to see A Simple Favor. I'm not particularly interested in it, but L. loves movies like this, and since I have AMC Stubs A-List, I don't have to be as discriminating. The movie is free with my A-List pass.

9:45 p.m. — I actually really enjoyed it! It was dumb, but hilarious (probably intentionally?). Also, Henry Golding. I'm obsessed.

11 p.m. — I get home and find A. asleep on the couch with the next episode of Jack Ryan playing. I wake him so he can get into bed, and then I shower and hop in bed myself. I text my sister about cruise logistics until my whitening strips are done, and then pass out promptly.

Daily Total: $766

Day Five

6:20 a.m. — I wake up to the sound of my building's entryway fire alarm going off. It's been doing this a lot lately. I don't bother trying to go back to sleep, and I check my bank account instead. I see that my paycheck has been deposited, so I immediately transfer $300 to my travel fund and $150 to my IRA. I don't set my savings on auto transfer, since I change the monthly allotments fairly often, and I also just find it really satisfying to do it manually.

7:15 a.m. — I'm up and getting ready in a rush, since I don't want to have to listen to the alarm any longer. I'm out the door 20 minutes later.

8:30 a.m. — I arrive at my boss's townhouse (he's fancy), where he and a few other partners are hosting a fundraising breakfast for an awesome progressive candidate. I'm so excited to meet her and hear her speak (and to play with my boss's puppy!).

10 a.m. — The candidate was amazing! As difficult as the last few years have been politics-wise, I'm glad to be alive in a time when so many strong, incredible, and inspiring women are taking their futures into their own hands by running for office. Feeling uplifted, I snag a free pastry on the way out and head back to the office to get started on some case review.

12:30 p.m. — Lunch time! I grab an arugula salad, a few pieces of nigiri, and some seared portobello mushrooms with my usual Ito En. We discuss our collective confusion over how Halloween works in semi-adulthood.

2:30 p.m. — I head to Brooklyn for a client's sentencing. These are always hard, especially since I have mixed feelings about the morality of what we do here as a criminal defense firm.

4:30 p.m. — I'm back in the office and done with work, so I finish off the day with some quick coding.

5:30 p.m. — I'm freeeeeee! I stop by the ATM to withdraw cash for the cruise, just in case.

6 p.m. — I get home and discover, much to my horror, that the fire alarm is *still* going. I can't live like this!! My neighbor says he's called management, but given their track record, I'm not optimistic that they'll fix it. I put on some music to try to drown it out. I then start a load of laundry and finish up packing. It feels like I'm bringing so much stuff, but inevitably I will forget something.

7:15 p.m. — Packing complete, I head to the gym to squeeze in a quick workout.

8:30 p.m. — Back at home, I put on whitening strips and Nair it up. I wait for it to work and then hop in the shower.

9:30 p.m. — We drink some rosé and watch another episode of Jack Ryan, then A. heads out to meet a friend. I go to bed, since I have to be up early to catch my flight to Miami. I realize I had only rosé for dinner. Ah well — I'm not a real adult and I don't pretend to be.

Daily Total: $0

Day Six

4:30 a.m. — Ugh, this is horrible. No one should be awake at this hour. There's something about knowing I have to get up super early that makes me sleep terribly, so I'm extra tired. I reluctantly drag myself out of bed, throw on some clothes, and call an Uber to the airport. Mercifully, the fire alarm has stopped. $15

5:15 a.m. — I arrive at the airport and check my bag before heading to the gate. I'm surrounded by middle-aged white people dressed in Hawaiian prints. Evidently we're all going to the same place. There was no one else in the PreCheck line, so I'm pretty early to the gate — blech. I'm normally more of an arrive-as-the-plane-is-boarding person. $25

7 a.m. — And we're off! I haven't been very excited for this cruise, for a number of reasons. Obviously, I didn't think I was going to be flying solo, and third-wheeling my sister and her girlfriend isn't exactly my idea of fun. (They're both super extra and their vibe can be a bit intense.) But weirdly, when I get settled in my seat and take in the stale plane smell, my mood lifts and I'm excited again. It's a vacation, after all! I'm taking a week off of work, I get to stuff my face and drink as much as I want, and I'll be with my sister, who is my best friend in the world but who I don't get to see often enough. It's going to be great.

9:15 a.m. — After sleeping for most of the flight, I wake up half an hour before landing. I peruse the detailed itinerary I made for us, with everything planned out to the half-hour. I made a brunch res at an upscale place on the beach, but right now I'm really just feeling Mexican food. I've tried virtually every place in the city that people call “authentic,” but none of it remotely resembles the food I grew up eating in California.

9:35 a.m. — Just before we land, a dog crawls under the seat in front of me!!!! My row-mates and I pet him, take photos, and generally fawn over him until we land. Best day ever!!!

10 a.m. — I meet up with my sister, C., and her girlfriend, T., at the baggage terminal. It's so good to see them both! We decide we do want Mexican food, and take an Uber to a well-reviewed local spot. I cover this one since I know they'll get me back later. $20

11 a.m. — We arrive at the restaurant, and it's delicious! Definitely the closest thing I've had to food from home in a long time, which makes me so happy. While we eat, the three of us catch up and decide what we want to do on the ship today. C. pays for my meal.

12 p.m. — We Uber to the cruise port and join the horde of sweaty, grumpy people trying to get aboard. T. covers the Uber.

12:30 p.m. — We're on the ship! We hand off our luggage to the porter. I only have a $10 on me, so that's what I tip him. We then head up to the deck to take in the views and enjoy a poolside drink ($10) while we wait for our rooms to be ready. The drink is very strong, but too sweet for my taste. $20

1:30 p.m. — The rooms are ready, so we head down to check them out and bring in our luggage, which has been left by the door. We all promptly pass out.

2:30 p.m. — We're awoken by a horribly loud in-room announcement. Apparently there's some kind of safety training we have to do. We go upstairs to our designated emergency area, check in, and stand around in the sweltering heat for half an hour until the presentation starts. They basically tell us to put a life jacket on in case of emergency, and that's about it. Exasperated, we head to the deck for some fresh air once it's over.

3 p.m. — We relax at a table overlooking the water while C. and I call our dad to wish him a happy birthday. He and I don't get along, so I try to keep it short. When we get off the call, C. tells me that on her trip to see him last week, he told her he has two other children besides me, my two sisters, and our half-brother. I'm taken aback at first, but then I decide that it's not exactly out of character for him, and C. agrees.

4 p.m. — We decide to wander about the ship a bit before dinner. We spend a few minutes walking around the casino, and then we stumble upon the arcade, where we play games for 20 minutes or so. We crush the basketball and bean bag toss games. My onboard account card isn't working, so C. covers the cost.

6 p.m. — We change for dinner and head upstairs early, since we're hungry. We go to the formal dining room and are seated at a table with an ocean view. I get a Caesar salad to start, grilled shrimp and a baked potato for my main course, and a cheese plate for dessert. Best life! C. gets croquettes to start, lentils with basmati rice for her main course, and tiramisu for dessert, and T. gets cured salmon to start, mahi mahi with ratatouille for her main course, and caramelized cheesecake for dessert. The flavors aren't all complementary and the food is quite heavy, but we have a great time anyway.

8:30 p.m. — After dinner, we fix my onboard account card. Then we hang out in C. and T.'s room, playing gin rummy and smoking with T.'s pen. (We're a very exciting group.) I head back to my room early since I'm exhausted.

9:30 p.m. — Sadly, it seems I'm going to be restricted to a five-minute shower unless I want to flood the bathroom. I realize this slightly too late, and I have to wring out the bath mat. I then do my quick routine and hop into bed, at which point I remember my room is toward the back of the boat — and I can feel the engine rumbling. It's rhythmic and kind of soothing, so I don't think it'll keep me from sleeping. It feels weird to be here without A., but I try not to dwell on it, and I still fall asleep relatively quickly.

Daily Total: $80

Day Seven

8:30 a.m. — I'm surprised I slept in this long, since I fell asleep really early yesterday. C. and T. are late risers, so I know they won't be up for a few hours. I cave and decide to buy the internet plan. It's insanely slow, and I have immediate buyer's remorse, but I don't want to go the entire week without email. $49

10:30 a.m. — I get dressed for the day and slather myself in sunscreen. When I can't wait any longer, I head to their room and knock until T. opens it. T. and I combine efforts to haul C. out of bed.

11 a.m. — We have brunch in the main dining room. We share a fruit plate to start, and I order a salmon Benedict, C. gets two eggs with hash browns and bacon, and T. gets a bacon Benedict. It's delicious, made even better by the fact that it feels free, even though technically we just already paid for it.

12 p.m. — We head out to the main deck pool. I force C. to take some photos of me for my (eventual) dating app profiles before I get all sweaty in the sun. She's an Instagram genius, so somehow a few of them actually look decent enough to use.

1 p.m. — We lie in the sun (fully sunscreened, of course) on an upper deck for a bit before heading down to the bar and pool area. C. orders a pitcher, but I don't want to get dehydrated in the sun, so I just get some water. We put our feet in the pool and watch the festivities — they're having cocktail-mixing, lip syncing, and hairy chest competitions. It's shockingly inappropriate given the presence of children — somehow, a grandma ends up spanking a man's bare ass during the hairy chest competition — but it's hilarious. Music is blasting, everyone is dancing, and it's a great time. I'm surprised at what I'm seeing — most people are young, attractive, and ready to party. C. and I are glad we chose the fun cruise.

1:30 p.m. — We stop for a quick snack at the burrito stand, where I get a mini vegetarian burrito.

3 p.m. — We head inside to change and go to afternoon tea. The tea is meh, but it doesn't cost extra, so I'm not mad about it. C. and T. get in a spat about seeing other people, which is an ongoing fight for them. Along with the other guests at the table, I awkwardly sip my tea and pretend not to hear.

4 p.m. — We stop by the arcade for 50% off games. C. and I have a blast shooting aliens, throwing skee balls, and knocking down little clown dolls. T. is still mad, so she plays a driving game by herself. $5

5 p.m. — We head up to the topmost deck for a round of mini golf. C. beats us handily. She's hungry, so I call to move our steakhouse reservation from 8:30 to 7. We then head to our rooms to get ready. After showering, I apply some tinted moisturizer, concealer, powder foundation, blush, bronzer, highlighter, and setting powder. I then do a quick cut crease with a cat-eye and apply natural-looking lashes. It's “elegant night,” meaning we have to dress up for dinner, and C. wants to go all out for pictures.

7 p.m. — We arrive at the steakhouse, which is on the top deck and has great views. Since it's the first elegant night, we get a free bottle of wine with dinner. The waitress explains that the free merlot is “young” and “sharp,” and we are flattered that she thinks we can tell the difference. I order the tomato bisque and lobster, T. gets the escargot and filet mignon, and C. gets the stuffed mushrooms and lobster ravioli. It's all delicious, even for us pescatarians.

8:30 p.m. — Dinner is over, and we're basically incapable of movement. We decide to rally, since we're all dressed up. We hit the casino for a bit, since T. likes to gamble. She plays blackjack while C. and I watch.

10:30 p.m. — After several rounds of free drinks (thanks to T.'s continued gambling), we decide to head to one of the ship's “clubs.” Much to our surprise, it's pretty lit when we arrive. We dance to Latin trap jams for a half hour or so before going to get more drinks. T. decides we should do some bright blue shooters. I have no idea what's in them, but it doesn't look promising. I drink it anyway — it's predictably terrible, and I'm sad I paid for it. $10

11:30 p.m. — Back at the club's bar to escape a pair of creepers. T. thought I would be into the Scandinavian-looking one, but I am definitely not. Apparently I failed to communicate my disinterest, because they followed us to the bar. Helpfully, T. tells them that I'm single, at which point I escape the bathroom.

12:30 a.m. — We end the night sitting on some lounge chairs outside the club. T. spends a solid half hour trying to convince me to date her brother, who is extremely religious and deeply obsessed with their mom. I laugh at first, and then realize she's completely serious. I take this as a sign from the universe that it's time for bed, and I head back to my room, realizing it's actually not so bad to be single.

Daily Total: $64

Money Diaries are meant to reflect individual women's experiences and do not necessarily reflect Refinery29's point of view. Refinery29 in no way encourages illegal activity or harmful behavior.

The first step to getting your financial life in order is tracking what you spend — to try on your own, check out our guide to managing your money every day. For more money diaries, click here.

Have a Money Diary you'd like to share? Right now, in addition to our ongoing diaries, we're looking for potential diarists along the following theme:

Your Spending In Your State: We want to run one Money Diary from a different state each week. Want to rep your state? Submit here! In particular, we're looking for diaries from Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, North Dakota, Rhode Island, and Mississippi.

Calling all entrepreneurs: We want to hear from you! If you’re a freelancer or self-employed, we’d love to feature your Money Diary. Submit here.

Have you been working for at least 8 years and seen your salary increase or fluctuate? If so, fill out this form for a chance to be featured on our Salary Story series!

Have questions about how to submit or our publishing process? Read our Money Diaries FAQ doc here: r29.co/mdfaqs

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Melania Trump Wants Everyone To Know She Has Her “Own Voice”

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Melania Trump granted reporters a rare five-minute interview while visiting Egypt on Saturday as part of her tour in Africa. Standing in front of the Great Sphinx, the first lady fielded questions on Judge Brett Kavanaugh, Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, and reminded reporters that she has her “own voice.”

When asked about President Donald Trump’s Twitter habits and if she ever asks him to put away his phone, she gave an emphatic, “Yes!”

She also explained her dynamic with her husband. “I give him my honest opinion and honest advice. Sometimes he listens, sometimes he doesn’t,” she said. “I have my own voice and my opinions, and it’s very important to me that I express how I feel.”

On Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court confirmation, Trump gave a comment that toed the line between summary and opinion, saying she was “glad” both sides were heard. “I’m glad Dr. Ford was heard, I’m glad Judge Kavanaugh was heard, that the FBI investigation was done, completed, and that the Senate voted,” she said.

But when asked if she believed Blasey Ford, Trump deferred the question, saying, “I will move on that.”

Trump also reportedly became irritated when asked about the mild uproar that arose when she wore a white pith helmet, a type of hat commonly associated with British colonialism, while on a safari in Kenya. She said she wishes people would focus on what she does rather than what she wears, although she has used her outfits to speak for her in the past.

To emphasize her point, Trump listed the places she visited on her trip. She did not specify, however, what she had been up to at each stop, or how it benefits the Be Best campaign, which was supposedly the goal of her tour of Africa.

“We went to Ghana. We went to Malawi, we went to Kenya, now here we are in Egypt,” she said. “I want to talk about my trip and not what I wear. That’s very important, what I do, what we’re doing with USAID, my initiatives.”

Trump has largely been a cipher throughout her time as first lady, and rarely speaks out. But she has diverged from the president before, most notably when she publicly spoke out in support of LeBron James after her husband said making James look smart “isn’t easy to do.”

So perhaps, moving forward, Trump will be using her voice a little more.

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We Spent $40,000 Renovating Our New York Home — This Is What It Looks Like Now

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What $165,000 Gets You In Upstate NY

In Refinery29's Sweet Digs, we take a look inside the sometimes small, sometimes spacious homes of millennial women. In today's episode, Danielle and Ely Franko share what went into their Catskills lodge.

Like most DIY projects, the Hunter Greenhouse started out with a need to create. Danielle and Ely Franko found their day jobs in dermatology and software, respectively, lacking in creativity. So they looked around, found a project, and got to work. Unlike other DIYs, however, their project took two whole years to complete.

"We're big DIY people, so we knew we wanted a gut, a fixer-upper," Danielle says. "The ultimate goal was to find a vacation house, a place to get away from the city, but also to ultimately Airbnb it."

The couple landed on a classic A-frame three-bedroom house in Tannersville, New York for $165,000. "It was the first house we looked at actually with our real estate agent and I remember thinking that it was charming but like just terrible," Danielle says. "The bathroom, the kitchen, all needed a complete gut. The worst thing to me was all of the walls had this horrible water staining on it and it was definitely a huge project. But it was a good price and it was a great area, and we saw what it could be."

Two years worth of weekends schlepping upstate, and the couple finally created the vacation home worthy of almost 25,000 Instagram followers. Tour their space above, then read on for more about the renovation process.

Tell us about how you decided to do the renovations yourself.

Danielle: I mean, Ely's dad is very handy, and he taught Ely and they would both work on their house. So there was a little experience, but for us it was really learn as you go. We spent two years every single weekend pretty much, going to the house, working on it, and doing all the renovations ourselves. It was definitely a learning experience, which is probably why it took us so long.

What were you looking for when looking at properties?

Danielle: I don't think we wanted something huge, I think we were looking for something like three, four bedrooms.

Ely: I think we were really just looking for something that had a little character, something that was a little different not just kind of a standard, you know, two-story house. It sounds silly, but we really didn't know anything and were so naïve. We kind of stumbled upon what we stumbled upon and figured it out as we went along.

What was the renovation process like?

Danielle: The first thing we had to do was sanding, and honestly, you can only sand a few hours at a time. Ely did most of it because it was just so physically demanding, standing on 16-foot ladders with this heavy electric sander over your head. The whole house was just covered in saw dust. But once that was clean and cleared, we painted everything — and I was responsible for most of the painting.To cover those water stains, we thought it was going to take one coat of primer and two coats of paint, but it took the best primer and paint money could buy — and still, five coats. Plus, we had to paint all of it by hand. But once we finished those two big things, we were then really able to focus and go room-by-room.

What's your favorite success story?

Ely: I think the crazy thing was the kitchen. It took us three separate attempts to level the cabinets we bought.

Danielle: Well, we thought they were level the first time, but the problem was the floor was so un-level and it was just a nightmare to get it perfect.

Ely: The first time we were way off level, so we unscrewed everything and figured it out, and then the counter top guy came and said that the counter couldn't go on without cracking. So we had to take the whole thing apart and then redo it. Danielle was losing her mind.

Danielle: My favorite part about the kitchen is the cabinet, though. We bought unfinished cabinet doors, a cabinet, and we completely gutted and re-did the kitchen, and then we couldn't decide what color cabinet doors. So we bought an airbrush and spray-painted them this really cool green.

So what's next?

Ely: When we bought this space, we knew we were going to move from the city eventually but we weren't quite ready to make that jump. This was kind of an intermediary step. Now we have a new home in Westchester that we're moving to, and that's going to be the next big project.

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Tune In For Week 4 Of The Money Diaries Savings Challenge & Save More Than $600

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Tune In For Week 4 Of The Money Diaries Savings Challenge & Save More Than $600

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Managing your finances can be a pretty personal project, but when I was writing Refinery29 Money Diaries, I was really inspired by the idea of women connecting online and IRL to cheer each other on as we all try to achieve the same goal: getting more comfortable with managing our money.

With that in mind, I've developed this savings challenge that you can follow along with here, in the book, and in our Facebook group. The challenges I'm going to be sharing over the next six weeks aren't always exactly same as the ones featured in the book, but having a copy will make this project a richer experience. (Don't have a copy yet? You can pick one up here! Don't want to buy the book — grab a copy from your local library!)

A few quick notes on our six-week money saving challenge:

How it works: Over the next six weeks, I'm going to challenge you to cross one financial task off your list every day and save a corresponding dollar amount. We'll start on Day 1 with writing down your financial info and saving $1. Once a week there will be a "Bonus Challenge," where you'll save even more money. You'll also get rest days where you don't have to save any money and can use that time to relax or get caught up on past challenges. At no point in the challenge will you need to save more than $32 in a single day. In the end, you can save as much as $628 if you do every single challenge.

When: Every Sunday evening, I'll post the schedule for the week ahead. While we're starting this challenge on a Monday, and each new week will kick off on Mondays, you can start this challenge on any day of the week.

Are you having an expensive month and can't manage to save $32 in one day, let alone $600 in six weeks? Don't stress. Try saving every other day, or every few days, or even once a week. The idea is to get more mindful with your money, not beat yourself up if you can't hit these goals.

Where: I'll update this page weekly with a new schedule, but you can also follow along in our Facebook group, where Anabel Pasarow and Kate Guarino, two Refinery29 employees, will be doing the challenge as well.

Let's get started, shall we?

Week 1: Getting Started

Day 1: Write down your financial info
Before you can even get started, you need to know where you stand. Take time today to write down all your financial information in one place. That includes your checking and savings account balance, your 401(k) balance, and any outstanding debt. To get the full list of what you should include see page 12-13 in the book. Save $1

Day 2: Do one annoying financial task
It wasn't until I started writing this book that I finally took care of some pretty annoying financial tasks — like rolling over a really old 401(k). (Hello, productive procrastinating!) Today, tackle one of the outstanding financial tasks on your to-do list. File an FSA claim. Ask the bank to refund any fees. Need some more suggestions? Check out page 32-33 in the book (and find out why you might want to take a whole money mental health day!). Save $2

Day 3: Check your credit score
Checking your credit score used to be an involved process, but it doesn't take much to track it down these days. You can sometimes find it on your credit card statement, or you can use an app like Turbo. These apps will also let you know if your score goes up or down, which can be helpful if you're about to get a mortgage, refinance your loans, or rent an apartment. For more about how your credit score works (and an easy way to bump it up), check out pages 28-29 in the book. Save $3

Day 4: Take the highlighter test
This might be my number-one favorite piece of advice in the book. Developed by the financial advisor Manisha Thakor, it's step one in a three-part challenge to help curb unnecessary spending (you can read about steps 2 and 3 on pages 22-24 in the book). The idea is that you go through your spending for a month (including everything from your rent to your cable bill) and highlight anything that doesn't bring you joy. Check back on Thursday when we'll be sharing the highlighter test from a reader. Save $4

Day 5: Use your credit card points
I've never been strategic about using my credit card points and maybe the best and worst thing that's ever happened to me is the new Amazon feature that lets me pay with my Amex points. Today, take some time to figure out how many credit card points you have and make a point to use them if they are going to expire soon. Don't have a credit card? Check out page 30-31 of the book to see why you should consider getting one. Save $5

Day 6: BONUS CHALLENGE: Write a Money Mantra
Financial advisor and founder of Stash Wealth Priya Malani first shared the idea of money mantras with me way back in 2015. I was initially a little skeptical — it sounded a bit too New Age-y for me. But I learned that it can be really helpful to have a mission statement when it comes to your money — a sentence or so that grounds your goals. I share a little more about my personal mantra in the book (see pages 15-16), and we've talked about them in the Facebook group before. (Plus, there was a whole room at 29Rooms dedicated to them!) Today, write down your own. Then save an extra $5 because this is a bonus challenge!

Day 7: Rest Day
You killed it tackling six money challenges! You've also saved $20. It's a good start! Enjoy a day off and get ready for Week 2!

Week 2: Raise Week

This week we’re going to focus on getting you paid.

Day 8: Calculate your compensation package
You know your base salary or hourly wage. But when was the last time you considered how much your other job benefits are worth? Today, take some time to calculate your whole compensation package, from your 401(k) match to the number of vacation days you have to any annual or semi-annual bonuses you might receive. You might even want to include all the money you’re saving on snacks if you work for one of those awesome companies that keep fully-stocked kitchens and serve gourmet (or even half-way decent) coffee. To get the full list of what you should include when adding up your compensation package, see page 100-101 in the book. Save $6

Day 9: Make a plan to ask for a raise
We’re coming up on the end of the year, so it’s definitely not too early to start talking to your boss about their plans and your goals for 2019 and beyond. Need more help asking for a raise? Check out pages 86-92 in the book for expert advice from Sallie Krawcheck and Fran Hauser (and also a few anecdotes from me). And this Tuesday, we’ll be publishing a piece from Fran, where she shares the negotiating success stories from women who have followed her good advice! Save $7

Day 10: Talk to a recruiter
One of my favorite pieces of advice in the book comes from Fran, who suggests the best way to know what salary to ask for in a job negotiation is to talk to a recruiter. I recently had dinner with a woman who said two different recruiters suggested she ask for two vastly different salaries (we’re talking $50,000 difference!). When it comes to knowing what you should be paid, the more data you can collect the better. So don’t just stop with one recruiter, ask a few. (Not sure how to find one? This Muse article has some great advice.) Save $8

Day 11: Go out to a networking coffee
It’s easy to fall into a habit of going to work every day and not thinking about your long-term career goals. But there’s no better time to look for a new job than when you have a job. And even if you have no desire to make a switch today, it’s always good to nurture your relationships. Take a page from one of our awesome book diarists (A Week in Philadelphia on $88,000) and go out to coffee with someone in your network today. Save $9

Day 12: Update your résumé
There are few things that are less fun than revising your résumé, but it’s so much easier if you update as you go along. Spend a little time tidying it up today — even if it’s just 10-15 minutes. We’ve got a lot of great résumé resources for you right here. Save $10

Day 13: BONUS CHALLENGE: Plan a vacation
Did you know that if you don’t take your paid vacation days, it actually means you’re working more for less money? So take some time off! (Want to know how much those vacation days are actually worth? See page 83 in the book.) With the end of year fast approaching, spend some time today planning a vacation. Don’t have an emergency fund? Then make that a staycation, okay? Then save an extra $10 because this is a bonus challenge!

Day 14: Rest Day
You made it through the second week of the challenge! Nice job! Take today to rest and relax, or catch up on anything you didn’t finish yet from week 1 or 2.

Week 3: Debt Week

It’s time to get back in the black.

Day 15: Write down your debt details
Do you know how much debt you have? You might have a vague sense of your credit card and student loan balance, but today let’s figure out the exact amount. And if you have student loan debt, write down the date the final payment is due. Even if that’s 15 years (or more) from now, you’ve got an end date and that’s powerful information. Save $11

Day 16: Set up a plan to manage your debt
There are two debt repayment methods that financial advisors typically recommend: snowball and avalanche. With the snowball approach, you first pay your monthly minimums, then throw any extra cash at the smallest amount of debt until you conquer it. The avalanche method focuses on interest rates, so you pay off the loan with the highest APY first, because that’s the debt that’s costing you the most money. Pay your monthly minimums first, and then focus on the debt with the highest interest rate. Want to learn more about the fastest way to pay off your debt and how to consolidate your loans? See Chapter 5 in the book. Save $12

Day 17: Do a Zero-Dollar Day
You’ll need to do a little prep ahead of doing a zero-dollar day to make sure you’ve got enough food, a full tank of gas or a prepaid Metro card, and your rent or bills aren’t due. Then simply don’t spend any money for one day. Looking for other easy ways to save some cash? See pages 132-133 in the book! Save $13

Day 18: Cancel 1 subscription
Most of us are paying for a subscription or service we don’t really need because sometimes it’s just easier to not cancel them. But do you really need Netflix and HBOGO and Hulu and cable? Or what about that gym membership you never use? Today, cancel one subscription you’re not using. Save $14

Day 19: Social your debt payment
Okay, I know this is a little out there, and even if you don’t want to share your debt payment with the world, you should still $15 today. But if we really want to change the negative stereotypes around debt (and we do!), we have to be more open talking about our money challenges. So today, social your debt. Take a snap of your most recent student loan or credit card statement (don’t include account numbers, I don’t want you getting hacked!) and share it on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Use the hashtag #MoneyDiariesDebtChallenge Save $15

Day 20: BONUS CHALLENGE: Use found money to pay down more debt
One of my favorite financial tips from Priya Malani, financial advisor extraordinaire, is to use any extra money to pay off more of your debt. So say you sell something on Poshmark, get an unexpected bonus at work, or your grandma sends you some birthday cash — use some of it to make an extra payment on your student loans or credit card debt. Every extra bit can help you get back into the black more quickly! Need some ideas for a side hustle you could take on to earn some extra cash? See pages 166-167 in the book. Then save an extra $15 because this is a bonus challenge!

Day 21: Rest Day
Nice job, you’ve made it through week 3, and we’ve only got three more weeks to go! Take today off, or get caught up on any challenges you might have missed!

Week 4: Emergencies Week

This week, let's lay some ground work to protect future you.

Day 22: Open a high-yield savings account
This simple task that Priya Malani has been preaching for years is a game-changer. It doesn’t take very long to do, but it can have a real impact on your savings. Do you know how much interest your savings account is earning right now? Most traditional banks offer pretty paltry interest rates (I’m talking 0.02%), but do a little digging and you can find a lot of great options at 1.5% or higher. Maybe that doesn’t seem like a lot, but just do the math. Say you manage to save $600 over this 6-week challenge. In a traditional savings account, you might earn $0.12 in interest. In a high-yield account with a 1.5% interest rate, you’ll earn $9. That’s $9 more dollars on your way to saving for a fully-funded emergency account. Save $16

Day 23: Make a plan to save $2,000
In the book, I worked with financial advisor Manisha Thakor to finally answer the question: how much money do you need in an emergency account? Her answer is $2,000. Today, map out a plan to save that much. It roughly breaks down to $5 a day over the course of a year, but maybe you can do it faster! Need some quick money-saving ideas? Check out pages 132-133 in the book. Save $17

Day 24: Deal with any outstanding medical bills
Is it just me sitting on a few medical bills that need some attention from the insurance company — as in, isn’t this included in my coverage plan? This kind of project is a bigger lift, so you might want to break it over a few days. See page 119 for more advice on understanding your insurance plan. And when dealing with insurance reps on the phone, just remember: It’s okay to ask questions until you get an answer you understand. Good luck! Save $18

Day 25: Decide if you need life insurance
Life insurance is one of those scary adult things that most people don’t worry about until they have kids. But I worked with Certified Financial Planner Barbara Ginty to determine just who needs life insurance — and what kind. Check out pages 128-131 to build out your ultimate “escape plan” — that’s the 21st-century version of an estate plan, and everyone needs one. Save $19

Day 26: Use your FSA dollars
An FSA account is a great idea — but only if you spend it. These pre-tax dollars can be used on everything from your birth control to your therapy copay. With only a few months left in the year, make sure you’re up-to-date filing all the paperwork. I have to admit, there’s nothing quite like seeing the reimbursement check hit your bank account to feel a little bit (unexpectedly) flush for a minute (or two). Save $20

Day 27: Rest Day
This has been a busy week, so I’m giving you a rest day a day early. Use today to get caught up on anything you missed or give yourself a break. You’ve made it through four weeks of this challenge — that’s amazing!

Day 28: BONUS CHALLENGE: Meal prep for the week
I swapped the rest and bonus days this week, so you could spend Sunday doing meal prep. One of my favorite Money Diaries money-saving tips is prepping your meals so you can save on lunch and dinners. Today, take a page from a bunch of awesome OPs and prep for the week ahead. Need some inspiration? My fellow Refinery29 food editors pulled together a slideshow of their favorite Money Diaries meal prep tips. Check it out here! Save an extra $20

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Here Are The Long Weekend Home Sales You Can Shop Today

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Holiday weekends during the fall are exciting for a handful of reasons: there's the potential day or two off from work (a.k.a. scaries-free Sunday), there's the crisp apple-picking and pie-eating weather, and then there's the promise of major seasonal sales. This coming Monday October 8 officially marks Indigenous Peoples Day — also known as Native American Day, or an amended Columbus Day. This generally observed three-day weekend marks the kickoff for a multitude of annual fashion and home sales — a whole slew of which are already starting to heat up online.

From big name furniture shops to trendy decor sites, we're rounding up all of the major steals you and your apartments won't want to miss this season. These stores are offering slashed prices on memory foam mattresses, mid-century modern couches, unique decor pieces, statement rugs, and much more. Scroll on for all of the home sales you can shop now — and be sure to check back for the rest that will keep on rolling out through the upcoming weekend.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

World Market
Dates:
Ends today
Sale: Additional 30% off all items (excluding food and beverages) plus free shipping on orders over $200 online
Promo Code: FAMFRIENDS30



Cost Plus World Market Woven Cotton Kilim Orissa Area Rug, 5x8, $139.99, available at Cost Plus World Market

West Elm
Dates:
Ends today
Sale: Additional 20% off everything plus free shipping
Code: ONEDAY



West Elm Audrey Nightstand - Blush, $299.99, available at West Elm

Urban Outfitters
Dates: Now - TBD
Sale: Additional 40% off sale items
Promo Code: None



Urban Outfitters Satin Quilted Pillow, $29.99, available at Urban Outfitters

AllModern
Dates: Ends today
Sale: Additional 15% off sale items
Promo Code: ITSASIGN



Mercury Row Banas 3 Drawer Chest, $489.99, available at AllModern

Nectar Sleep
Dates: Ends today
Sale: Additional $125 off mattress orders plus two free pillows
Promo Code: None



Nectar The Nectar Mattress, $799, available at Nectar Sleep

Anthropologie
Dates: Ends today
Sale: Additional 40% off sale home items and 20% off full-price furniture
Promo Code: None



Anthropologie Gulliver Storage Nightstand, $318.39, available at Anthropologie

Artifact Uprising
Dates: Now - October 11
Sale: Additional 15% off any orders over $150
Promo Code: AUTUMN



Artifact Uprising Cork & Brass Print Stand with Prints, $42, available at Artifact Uprising

Allswell
Dates: Now - 10/10
Sale: 30% off all twin-sized mattresses and bedding
Code: TWINNING



Allswell Grey Cotton Waffle Weave Coverlet, Twin, $175, available at Allswell

Burrow
Dates: Now - October 14
Sale: Up to $500 off new sofa purchases
Promo Code: FALL18



Burrow Sofa in Crushed Gravel, $1195, available at Burrow

Barneys Warehouse
Dates: Ends today
Sale: Additional 30% off site-wide
Promo Code: None



Anna by Rablabs Lia Bottle Stopper, $58, available at Barneys Warehouse

Birch Lane
Dates: Ends today
Sale: Additional 15% off sale items plus free shipping
Promo Code: FALL15



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Who Says Young Voters Are Apathetic? What You Should Know About This Brand-New Initiative

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With just a few weeks to go until Election Day, November 6, 2018, Democrats aren't taking the youth vote for granted — especially because only 30% of young women said they will "definitely" vote in the midterms, according to a recent poll by Refinery29 and CBS News.

That's why, with the party newly fired up after Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation to the Supreme Court, more initiatives are springing up to get out the vote among youth. The newest one is New Blue Crew, which aims at engaging and mobilizing young voters to elect Democrats, who have recently lost ground with millennials, some of whom are gravitating toward groups like the Democratic Socialists of America.

The program is focused on recruiting volunteers on college campuses to "organize for big days of actions around events like school move-in days, homecomings, classics, and the final days leading up to the 2018 election," according to the Democratic National Committee. Youth leaders receive training, support, organizing tools, and merch from the DNC. Since September, New Blue Crew has launched in 33 states and held voter registration drives on more than 150 campuses. (Click here if you're interested in joining.)

"Young Americans know that with the power of their vote, they can help decide whether the country goes forward or backward on issues like college affordability, immigrant rights, access to quality and affordable healthcare, gun safety, and a woman’s right to choose," DNC women's media director Elizabeth Renda told Refinery29. "Across the country, we’re seeing that students are fired up and ready to organize to defend those Democratic values. New Blue Crew is leveraging that student-organizing capacity and creativity by providing an additional outlet for activists and volunteers on campuses across the country to get in the game, get involved, and organize to elect Democrats up and down the ticket."

Get all your midterm election questions answered, here.

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This New Skin-Care Trend Was Made For Lazy Minimalists

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A 2017 study reports that more than 54% of people surveyed skip washing their face before bed. We'll let that sink in for a minute. Anyone who's ever woken up with a breakout or pillowcase caked with makeup after skipping this important step knows that going to sleep with dirty skin can be problematic for several reasons. If those are risks you're not willing to take, but are too lazy to partake in a double-cleansing routine, you need a cleansing stick.

Although the solid products have been trending for over a year, it wasn't until recently that we noticed exactly how many there are (and that doesn't even include all the serum, sunscreen, and toning sticks that exist, too!). It's a whole new category of cleansers that streamline your routine, save room on your countertop, fit into a carry-on bag with ease, and don't sacrifice efficacy for a petite package. Bottom line: Cleansing sticks solve a lot of problems — and don't require more than three steps to use (wet face, rub stick over skin, and rinse). Our favorites, ahead.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Best For Oily, Acneic, & Combination Skin...

This charcoal cleansing stick is easy to use and great for anyone who needs a pore cleansing before bed — but is too lazy to lean on numerous treatments. What's more, the trendy skin-care ingredient acts as a magnet for oil, so even if you woke up feeling dirty, one rinse of this stuff will have you feeling like you just left an expensive facial.



Oars + Alps Power Cleansing Face Stick, $18, available at Ulta Beauty

Having oily skin means you've probably struggled with breakouts at some point in your life, which likely means you also have some stubborn acne scars. Incorporating more acids into your life — like BHAs and AHAs — will help diminish any dark spots left behind. But if you're going to exfoliate with acids daily, you have to make sure to moisturize. This cleansing stick pulls double duty by utilizing lactic acid and rosehip oil to buff and hydrate at the same time.



Acure Organics Incredibly Clear Cleansing Stick, $9.99, available at Target

Alone, charcoal is an oil-busting ingredient, but combine the detoxing powerhouse with kaolin clay and you've got a winning team. If charcoal works like a magnet to remove dead skin cells clogging your pores, then clay is the vacuum that helps it do its work.



Olay Glow Boost White Charcoal Clay Face Mask Stick, $9.99, available at Target

Managing your skin's oil production doesn't necessarily mean you want to scrub so much of it away you feel stripped and dry. This gentle cleanser from Origins — formulated with white and purple rice — cleans, refines, and smooths your skin, but doesn't leave it thirsty.



Origins Modern Friction™, $28, available at Origins

Best For Normal & Sensitive Skin

It's no secret that green tea is a life raft for sensitive skin, so this pint-sized stick infused with the soothing stuff is essential when you spot redness.



Neogen Real Fresh Green Tea Cleansing Stick, $22, available at Soko Glam

This new launch from Credo offers three different formulas — chrysanthemum, for dry skin types; rose, for dehydrated skin; and green tea, for sensitive and normal skin — so no matter your skin's mood on any given day, you have the right lazy cleanser there for you.



Puremay Wonder Stick Cleanser, $31, available at Credo

Germaphobes will appreciate this balm-in-a-stick that doesn't force you to scoop product out of a jar.



Frudia Hydrating Blueberry Melting Cleansing Balm, $18.98, available at CVS

Unlike traditional exfoliants, gommage acts like a lint roller to gently remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your face without harsh granules or acids.



Bliss Stick Exfoliating Facial Cleanser , $12.99, available at Target

Best For Dry & Mature Skin

Finally, a coconut oil that doesn't melt before we can wash off our bronzer.



St. Ives Glow Apricot & Manuka Honey Cleansing Stick, $7.39, available at Target

You can feel better about having to wake up at 6 a.m. every morning with this coconut and caffeine cleanser. Just like a cold brew for your sallow, tired skin, this cleanser feels almost as energizing as a full eight hours of sleep.



Yes To Coconut Energizing Coffee 2-in-1 Scrub & Cleanser Stick, $9.99, available at Ulta Beauty

After being stuck in an economy cabin for several hours on a transatlantic flight your skin not only needs to be cleansed, but loaded up with hydration, which is exactly what this oil-infused cleansing balm does.



Julep Love Your Bare Face Detoxifying Cleansing Balm Stick, $28, available at Ulta Beauty

As much as your hair needs conditioner, so does your skin. Think of this mango butter-, argan- and sunflower oil-packed balm as a tall glass of ice water for your face this fall.



Daily Skin One Step Oil Cleansing Stick, $16, available at Free People

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