Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
jeudi 31 mars 2016
12 Tricks For Reading to a Squirmy Baby or Toddler
The following post was originally featured on Everyday Reading and written by Janssen Bradshaw, who is part of POPSUGAR Select Moms.
I feel like there is no end to the instructions to read to your child from the moment they are born (or even BEFORE they are born), but that can seem overwhelming when you're confronted with a baby who squirms in your lap or tries to rip or eat the pages.
Probably because of all this pressure to read to your baby, I get a lot of emails about how to read to tiny children.
I won't lie - I prefer it when they grow up enough to read longer picture books and I no longer have to both read and play book protection defense at the same time, but over the last five years of reading with a baby, I've picked up some tricks.
If you're looking for ways to read to your baby that doesn't want to sit still, try one of these suggestions:
- Lay on the floor. When my babies are really little and aren't stable enough to sit on my lap while I hold a book, I like to lay next to them on the floor. Both of my girls have been entranced with the pages above them (this also reminds me daily that my arms are very weak because I can only read about 3 books before they are killing me).
- Don't worry about finishing the book. This kind of goes against my internal reader, but if my baby loses interest in a book, I try to be okay about just quitting part way through and trying again with a new book either right then or later. It's more important that they enjoy reading than that we finish a specific book.
- Let them turn the pages. It's hard for me to let go and allow my girls to turn the pages (especially when they flip the pages before I'm done reading), but they love to be involved and, let's be honest - after a few months of parenthood, you know every word of Pajama Time! without looking at the pages.
- Read aloud while they crawl around. If Star is too restless to sit on my lap, I like to read aloud to her while she crawls or wanders around. Listening to books is a great skill to help them develop.
For more great tips to help you read to your squirmy little ones, check out the rest of this article from our friends at Everyday Reading.
The 1 Thing Beyoncé Told Me That I'll Never Forget
"No kissing Beyoncé." Those were the words I heard in my ear from Beyoncé's bodyguard, Julius, right before I stepped up to meet her in 2011. She was promoting her new fragrance launch at Macy's with a meet and greet for customers. I remember that entire day vividly. I had planned in my head what I would say once I finally got over the shock that I was actually speaking to the "Irreplaceable" singer. I even wrote a heartfelt letter to her, but after that polarizing warning, I decided not to give it to her - way to sober my nerves right before I meet my idol, Julius! To put things in context, this surreal moment was a dream five years in the making, and it was finally about to come true.
My obsession with Beyoncé began in 2006. Of course I knew about the Destiny's Child ringleader long before then, but if I'm being honest, I wasn't the biggest fan. Then something happened - something magical. Something that proved to me that the power of music can really heal.
I was a freshman in high school at the time, struggling to adjust to a new environment, all while trying to find myself as a young, black, gay teenager. I had experienced a lot of bullying in junior high school and I feared a repeat. It was a rough transition for me. I isolated myself from my friends and started cutting classes, which caused my grades to drop to an all-time low. I was on the verge of dropping out - and then I discovered "Déjà Vu," a song from Beyonce's sophomore album B'Day. There was something about this project, full of aggressive and confident up-tempo tracks, that made me feel better. I remember playing it over and over because of the feeling it gave me. I wanted to know more about the woman behind the music that was powerful enough to make me happy even in my saddest times.
It was Beyoncé's music that pulled me out of that darkness. Her voice was my beacon of light. Her ferociousness made me feel confident in myself. It was a huge turning point for me. As I got to know more about her, watching her work ethic inspired and motivated me to pursue my goals of becoming a writer, and not to give up. I started going back to class and picking my grades up. And I graduated from high school with amazing honors.
I remember walking over to meet Beyoncé that warm September day at Macy's. My mind was racing, because I wanted to get out everything I felt in my heart in just the few seconds I had. I sat down next to her, and the first thing I said to her was, "You don't know how much you mean to me." I could feel the tears well up in my eyes as I told her how much she inspired me. I started shaking, and Beyoncé did what any mom would do - she was pregnant at the time with Blue Ivy! - she reached over and rubbed my shoulder and my hand as I spoke to her, trying to calm me down. I gazed into her honey-brown eyes, and the more I spoke my love for her, I could tell she was listening intently. Before I could burst out into tears, I heard the photographer say "Smile for Beyoncé!" We turned towards the camera, and he took the picture. That was it. My moment, which felt like eternity in my head, only lasted about two minutes. But I wasn't ready to leave just yet.
I extended my arm out, and Beyoncé put her hand into mine. I told her, "I hope you now know how much I appreciate you." Bey smiled and replied, "Aww, you are SO cute!" (I'm pretty sure I died in that moment, but I managed to walk away somehow). I walked outside of Macy's feeling like I was on a cloud, when a reporter from the New York Daily News came up to me and asked me about my experience. I told him everything, and my story about Beyoncé ended up in the newspaper.
Many people love Beyoncé because she's beautiful, or because of her fierceness, or her flawless dance moves - but my admiration to Bey runs deeper than that. Her music pulled me back from the brink of self destruction, and I will forever be thankful. It's not often that people get to meet their idols and I understand how incredibly lucky I am to have spent that short but sweet moment with Queen Bey - the one that I'll always cherish.
Beyoncé's New Album Is Still M.I.A., So Obsess Over Her Jaw-Dropping Elle Magazine Cover Instead
Beyoncé is on the cover of Elle magazine's May issue, and - unsurprisingly - she looks insanely beautiful. The magazine's rare interview with the "Formation" singer won't drop until Monday, but until it does, they've given the world plenty to obsess over. Beyoncé is sporting looks from her new fitness line, Ivy Park, while rocking a head full of gorgeous curls and minimal makeup. Keep reading to see both of her covers for the magazine, then check out what happened when she had a sweet family outing at the White House Easter Egg Roll with Jay Z and Blue Ivy!
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Scrambled Eggs
One of the most basic recipes everyone learns is scrambled eggs, but the truth is perfectly scrambled eggs are a lot trickier than they seem. Much like the classic omelet, scrambling eggs is one cooking method on which many chefs differ. To whisk in a bowl or in the pan? To add dairy or to not? Minor tweaks can make huge differences in something so basic, and we guarantee you'll want to change up your scrambled egg routine with tips from these experts - they know a thing or two about recipe developing. Here's how some of our favorite chefs scramble their eggs (we're not kidding when we say Gordon Ramsay's method is a game changer).
Alton Brown: Whisk With Whole Milk
Simple yet effective is the name of the game in Alton Brown's scrambled egg recipe. Adding whole milk isn't his only tip, though. "Odds are you're going to be serving these on a plate. If so, I strongly suggest you park an ovensafe one in a low oven or in hot water while you're cooking. Cold plates suck the heat right out of food," his recipe description reads.
Giada De Laurentiis: Frittata Cupcakes
Giada's preferred method of scrambling eggs involves a mini muffin tin - she likes to make frittata cupcakes. She told POPSUGAR in an interview, "I love making my little cupcakes - frittata cupcakes. I just stick whatever's left in the fridge. Whatever it is that was from the night before, whether it's leftover pasta, leftover meat, leftover vegetables . . . Another favorite is lox, scrambled eggs, and peas - for a little color. For a Sunday morning, it's one of my favorite go-to breakfasts."
Gordon Ramsay: Low and Slow (With a Secret Ingredient)
Gordon Ramsay's scrambled eggs recipe is one everyone must try at least once. The finished product looks more like custard, and thanks to his cooking method and a secret ingredient, they're melt-in-your-mouth good.
Chrissy Teigen: "Cheesy" Eggs, Hold the Cheese
Chrissy Teigen swears by her method of creating "cheesy" eggs without the cheese, thanks to her secret ingredient: heavy cream. Her tip for getting them as creamy as possible with no browned spots? "Don't stop gently stirring and scraping (edges and all) for more than a few seconds!"
The Pioneer Woman: Smoked Salmon and Chives
Like most Pioneer Woman recipes, this one sounds delightful. Calling them the "best scrambled eggs ever", Ree Drummond suggests sprinkling in chopped smoked salmon after the eggs are cooked and then garnishing with chopped fresh chives.
Mario Batali: Topped With Shaved Truffle
Leave it to Mario Batali to bring some serious culinary chops to such a basic recipe. To make scrambled eggs special, Mario suggests adding mascarpone or parmesan cheese, but to make them "spectacular," garnish with shaved truffle.
16 Takeout Recipes You Can (and Should) Make in a Slow Cooker
I'd be willing to bet that when you think of slow-cooker recipes, chili, carnitas, soup, and other classic comfort foods are the first to come to mind. But this kitchen appliance can slowly simmer up so much more, including a wide range of Asian and Indian dishes (aka your favorite takeout). Keep reading to learn how to make everything from Thai peanut chicken to Indian-spiced lentils.
Shadowhunters: You're About to Be Completely Obsessed With These Behind-the-Scenes Photos
Fans of the Shadow World have had a lot to be happy about lately. Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments has officially been renewed for a second season on Freeform, and author/mastermind of the Shadow World Cassandra Clare finally released Lady Midnight in early March. I'm not even going to get started on the latest and very highly anticipated development in this week's most recent episode since fans have probably not quite recovered from it yet (breathe, Malec shippers, BREATHE). If you need even more Shadowhunters in your life, then consider us your . . . angels. We've rounded up amazing behind-the-scenes photos that members of the cast have shared on Instagram; go forth and be prepared to become an even bigger fan of the show after seeing the adorable group interact with each other on set.
This Stunning Photo Shoot Celebrates the Beauty of Color, in All Forms
The former editor of Vogue Paris, Carine Roitfeld, has teamed up with the American publication Harper's Bazaar on a new shoot that is a celebration of color in all forms. Using models with a variety of skintones, Carine and her team created a series of truly stunning looks with make-up artist Peter Philips that are for anyone who isn't afraid of bold color.
In an editor's note accompanying the piece, Carine wrote,"This feature explores and celebrates the concept of beauty in its many forms and iterations, and the striking ways it intersects with couture. From pop colors and pastels to glittery gold and smoky, we've encapsulated a full spectrum of beauty and make up looks that are turning heads today."
These five stunning looks prove the power of color in all its forms - and make sure to see even more in the full story at Harper's Bazaar.
At Last! There's a Safer Way For Pregnant Women to Get Their Caffeine Fix
Ask any mom what she had the hardest time giving up during her pregnancy, and alcohol won't come nearly as often as one other beverage of choice: coffee.
Although it hasn't been all-out banned from healthy pregnancies in the same way that liquor has, plenty of studies have recommended that pregnant women – and even those breastfeeding or trying to conceive – limit their daily caffeine intake. (Just last week, new research pointed to the fact that drinking more than two cups of coffee could raise a woman's risk of miscarriage by more than 70 percent.)
Compound that with the fact that pregnant women are perhaps exponentially more zapped for energy (that whole "creating life" is exhausting work!), and getting through the day without their usual multicup regimen is a legitimate struggle.
When Emilie Simmons, a passionate coffee drinker, first got pregnant, it wasn't just the caffeine – "it's also about the taste, the smell, the experience, the routine" – that she craved.
"I stumbled through my first pregnancy drinking decaf and watered-down regular coffee and felt guilty on the days when I indulged in a full-caf pumpkin spice latte," she told POPSUGAR. "By the time my second baby belly was in full bloom, I was fed up and had talked to enough fellow moms to know I wasn't alone."
That's when she came up with Mommee Coffee, a newly launched line of coffee specifically designed for women who are pregnant, nursing, or trying to conceive. The line of organic coffee beans is not just low in acidity but it is also water-processed (read: chemical-free), and it comes in four different levels of caffeination to fit with everyone's needs at any given moment.
Still, with "Is it OK to drink coffee?" continuing to be a mystifying question, we spoke with Simmons and cofounder Sharon Pieczenik about consumption guidelines and what you should consider the next time you order a cup. (Hint: a taste of 1/4-caf might just save your life.)
Rihanna's "Kiss It Better" Video Is So Sexy You Probably Shouldn't Watch It at Work
If you thought you'd seen the sexiest side of Rihanna, you were wrong. The singer has dropped the video for "Kiss It Better," and it's so hot you might need to take a cold shower after watching it. She's the only one featured in the video, but you won't be complaining. It's simple, but it's crazy-sexy. Get ready for a lot of skin and, yes, some nudity. Take a look, and if you haven't yet, watch her "Work" video, featuring Drake.
25 Telenovelas to Add to Your Netflix Queue Right Now
Gone are the days when you had to remember to put a blank tape in your VHS player to record your nightly novelas. Now you can DVR them and, even better, stream some of your favorites on Netflix - with English subtitles.
Whether you're in the mood for an oldie but goodie (Thalia's María la del Barrio, perhaps?) or a relatively recent drama (Kate del Castillo's Dueños del Paraíso), Netflix has a surprising amount of Spanish-language TV at your binge-watching disposal.
Ready to set up camp? Prepare your queue, and keep scrolling for a list of shows you should add ASAP. Then, catch up on season one of Eva Longoria's NBC show, Telenovela.
Feel This Mom's Struggle as She Attempts to Get Her Child Escape Artist to Bed
Adam, like most kids, doesn't want to go to bed. His mom, like most moms, is freakin' exhausted as a result. After a full hour of trying to get her son to sleep, this mom begins to admit defeat as Adam slides off the bed, toddles down the hallway, and swiftly slides feet first on his belly down the full flight of stairs - with a smile on his adorable little sleep-avoiding face.
This child is the true definition of an escape artist. Watch the video to see him in action for yourself.
15 Problems Only People With Invisalign Understand
Invisalign is not for the faint of heart. It will challenge your commitment, stamina, and self-confidence. It takes what feels like a bazillion years to complete. It has a million annoying components . . . and yet, it does offer one huge payoff: perfectly straight teeth. Those with Invisalign will agree that these 15 problems come up on the regular during your treatment. And you know what makes suffering through something a tad bit better? Knowing you're not alone.
25 Life Lessons Written by a 100-Year-Old Man
My great-grandfather is 100 years old, and living a century has taught him a thing or two. Andy Anderson's life story is one for the big screen - he met my great-grandmother on a Saturday, and they married on the following Saturday. They stayed together until my grandma took her last breath 67 years later. In between those 67 years, they had two children, adopted another son, and were the greatest party throwers in the county (we have the pictures to prove it).
Without going to college, Andy worked his way to the top; he became the corporate manager of the dairy department of Safeway for the entire country. He earned the nickname Mr. Cheese, which eventually turned into Grandpa Cheese among the family - a name that has admittedly gotten a few brow raises. My point is, Grandpa Cheese has taught me a lot about life. I could think of no better person to give the world a few life lessons than him. Here's what he has learned in his 100 years.
- Always maintain a good sense of humor.
- Never be too good to start at the bottom.
- Exercise every single day, even when you don't feel like it.
- Don't spend more money than you make.
- Drink orange juice every day.
- Love at first sight is not a fable.
- Having a bad job is better than having no job at all.
- Eat around the mold; don't go wasting food.
- Your family is the most precious thing you will ever have in life.
- Eat sausage every day - it worked for me.
- Your life is delicate, and if you neglect yourself, you'll spoil. That's what cheese taught me.
- Don't ever be afraid to be your true self.
- Everyone has too many clothes. Wear what you have and quit buying more.
- You must be able to forgive, even if it's difficult to do.
- Save your money now and spend it later.
- Love is not always easy; sometimes you have to work at it.
- Find something comical in every single situation.
- If you're faced with a problem, don't delay trying to figure it out. But if there's no way to figure it out, you have to forget about it.
- Make sure you're doing what you love; don't be afraid to follow those dreams you have for yourself.
- Education is important, but not necessary. Life can be an education in itself.
- Explore your world and stay curious.
- Try not to take yourself so seriously.
- My full name is William Bradford James Anderson, and my initials always remind me to ask myself, "Why be just anybody?"
- Have common sense. Think about the most reasonable answer to every situation. If you don't have common sense, you're a bust.
- Life is a gift that you must unwrap. It's up to you to determine if what's inside will lead you to happiness or dismay. You have the power to make that decision for yourself.
If you're wondering what Grandpa Cheese is up to these days, he's riding his motorized scooter around Benicia, CA, and "planning on what I'm going to do when I start to get old," he says.
45 Life Lessons Written by a "90-Year-Old" Woman
This 12-Year-Old Boy Is Going to Teach You 22 Lessons About Life
Jennifer Lopez Just Wore the Lipstick You'll Be Swiping All Spring
Leave it to Jennifer Lopez to totally embrace the kickoff of the new season with the most perfect shade of bright lipstick. Just a day after stealing The Late Late Show With James Corden with a hilarious round of Carpool Karaoke, the singer and Shades of Blue actress appeared on The View on March 31 to promote her TV show, wearing a vibrant orange shade on her lips that complemented her dual-toned, skintight dress and golden skin. Just looking at her makeup makes us wish we were on a sandy, glittery beach in a swimsuit and this exact shade of lipstick.
To steal J Lo's sexy look, scroll ahead for a few shopping options. Just keep in mind that to keep the orange lipstick from running, attention needs to be paid. A light layer of foundation under the color helps, and so does a lip primer or clear liner. Want even more Spring makeup inspiration? Check out the fun lip color shades Adriana Lima has been wearing.
Feral Frond Brows Are the Perfect Edgy Trend to Try This Festival Season
We'll try almost any trend when it comes to upgrading our arches. We've slicked them with metallic makeup, tinted them with rainbow hues, made them look glitzy with glitter, and even rubbed onion on our brows in the name of growing them faster. But we're pretty sure this look created by Andrew Galli, Nars UK Makeup Artist Ambassador, will be our go-to this festival season.
While working on a backstage training with the brand, Galli used the face of model Georgie Hobday as a canvas to create the "feral frond brow." He shared that Nars Eyeliner Stylo in Nuku Hiva ($27), a rich chocolate brown liquid liner pen, was what he used to get the look. It seems that he just used the tip of the product to create dramatic, hair-like strokes along her arches, resulting in a bold style that mimicks the leaves of palm fronds.
While the faint of heart may want to pass on practicing this technique, we could see the feral frond brow becoming a popular makeup trend during festival season. If you really want to turn heads, try substituting this ochre shade for Nars Eyeliner Stylo in Atlantic ($27), a vivid blue. Read on to get a closer look at the graphic style.
What Is Ginger Beer, Anyway?
For a refreshment so popular, it's interesting to note how many misconceptions exist about ginger beer. The drink, which originated in the mid-1700s in England, was first known as a fermented alcoholic beverage made from sugar, ginger, water, and a starter culture known as ginger beer plant. But today, the name "ginger beer" is actually a misnomer, as most commercial ginger beer is a soft drink and contains no alcohol (although a few brands, such as Crabbie's, do).
In comparison to ginger ale, ginger beer is more robust in flavor with a spicy quality. Ginger beer can be enjoyed alone, but it also plays a starring role in cocktails such as the dark and stormy and the Moscow Mule. How do you like to drink it?
The Walking Dead's Season Finale Pictures Introduce Negan in a Bone-Chilling Way
Even if you don't watch The Walking Dead, you might be aware that a certain villain is coming. Why? Because the Internet has been buzzing about it for months. Negan is on his way, and days away from the season finale, we have finally gotten the first official picture of him - and the infamous Lucille. The cast has been teasing Negan as the "worst yet," and we don't doubt it. We have so many questions about the big baddie, but for now, we'll have to settle with these finale pictures and the first footage of him.
12 Ways You're Using Your Beautyblender Totally Wrong
The Beautyblender isn't your grandmother's makeup sponge. There's a reason professional and YouTube makeup artists keep more than one in their kits at all times. Since the brand launched over 10 years ago, it has become an insider favorite and created a new category of edgeless sponge applicators (with plenty of knockoffs available).
The main question we get when someone sees us with the pink egg: "Is it worth the money?" Yes. The Beautyblender will cost you $20 (which is about 19 more dollars than the cheap triangle versions at the drugstore). But you'll get a dewy, airbrushed finish you can't achieve with brushes alone.
There are a few things you need to know before you run out and buy one. Consider this your Beautyblender owner's manual straight from the product creator, Rea Ann Silva. Avoid these 12 mistakes to keep you from getting mold, tears, or stains in your prized beauty tool.
Sorry, but If You Relate to These 15 Things, You're Officially Old
It's pretty hard to escape any form of nostalgia these days, but it holds even more significance when you think about it terms of specific facts. For some people on Yik Yak, a popular social sharing app, feeling old meant realizing that Lizzie McGuire now has a kid or remembering your CD player struggles. Keep reading to see how much life has changed since you were a kid and then get updated on the proper tech etiquette these days.
Daisy Ridley and John Boyega Dish on Their Hardcore, Real-Life Jedi Training
Daisy Ridley and John Boyega might have made wielding a lightsaber in Star Wars: The Force Awakens look easy, but it turns out their real-life Jedi training was no walk in the park. In an exclusive clip from Yahoo Movies, Ridley and Boyega refer to their extreme, three-month-long lightsaber training regimen for the movie as "fun" and "wicked" and dished on what it was like to face off against Adam Driver as Kylo Ren. "I remember we were on set, Adam's in character, and I felt the added weight of the saber sometimes when he would get so intense," Boyega said. The clip above will be included with other bonus video content when the DVD is released on April 5, but in the meantime, watch the emotional audition that landed Ridley the role of Rey.
Ariana Grande's Lingerie-Filled "Dangerous Woman" Video Is Borderline Scandalous
Ariana Grande has released the (first) video for her hit single "Dangerous Woman," and it's quite revealing. The singer is clad entirely in lingerie through the whole video, in which she writhes around on a couch. It's kind of like Selena Gomez's "Good For You," except Grande takes it about six notches further. Take a look, and if you haven't heard the a cappella version of "Dangerous Woman," you need to. Stay tuned for more versions of the video - this is just "Visual 1" - and mark your calendar for Dangerous Woman's May 20 release.
You Won't Have Any Varsity Blues in Ali Larter's Breathtaking Mansion
Varsity Blues and Resident Evil franchise star Ali Larter and husband Hayes MacArthur are moving out of their gorgeous contemporary home in Hollywood Hills, LA. The just-listed three-story property is selling for $4.295 million - a boost from the $2.925 million they purchased it for in 2009, according to Variety.
Four bedrooms and five-and-a-half baths are featured in the open loft-style floor plan, which spans about 5,500 square feet. The boxy listing includes glass walls throughout and wide oak flooring in the second level's living room area, as well as a bar and fireplace. The chef's all-white kitchen is beautifully spacious with lacquered cabinets and marble countertops, and a huge island sits in between the dining area and top kitchen appliances. Sliding glass doors open to a balcony that's equally as long as the house with views overlooking the backyard and canyon.
The gym, family room, and one of the bedrooms are located on the bottom floor, where a grassy backyard, swimming pool, and spa await just outside. Following the metal- and glass-railed staircase to the top floor, the master bedroom features a double-sided glass fireplace, its own private balcony, a large walk-in closet, and a gorgeous white marble bathroom with a tub and steam shower.
Look ahead for a tour of the home and prepare to want to move right in.
Love Don't Cost a Thing: 98 Cheap Date Ideas
Going on dates doesn't always have to mean draining your wallet at fancy restaurants. There are plenty of affordable and entertaining dates you can go on with your significant other. After all, it's really the time you spend with them that matters and not how much you're spending on the dates. Here are 98 cheap dates for you to try:
- Cook each other's family recipes for each other.
- Nostalgia movie night. Watch your favorite movies from during your school years.
- Watch a free improv show.
- Go for a hike in a beautiful park.
- Picnic outdoors and prep delicious foods to feed each other with.
- Explore the farmers market together, and share some juicy fruits or tasty snacks to munch on.
- Take a tour around a museum the both of you haven't been to (preferably on free museum day!).
- Go to open mic night and sing your heart out.
- Visit a board game cafe and play games to your heart's content.
- Pal up with your partner for trivia nights in neighborhood bars.
- Create your own city tour, and visit historic landmarks.
- Pick a documentary, and discuss it after watching.
- Have a book club date night. Choose a book to read together, and hold an intimate book club meeting for two when you're both done with it.
- Volunteer together at the pound, homeless shelter, or your favorite nonprofit.
- Go swimming together.
- Stargaze and try to name the constellations you're staring at with the help of an app or book.
- Watch birds and wildlife, and try to identify them with a book or app.
- Pick fruit from a farm, and find recipes to cook the fruit.
- Plan a trip together, and share pretty pictures and hot-spot descriptions with each other.
- Buy a travel book of your dream travel destination, and read it together.
- Visit the library, and read books together.
- Take a free meditation class together.
- Bike around the city.
- Bring $5 to the mall and see who ends up with the best buy.
- Rollerblade together or go to a roller skating rink.
- Try ice skating.
- Go on a free factory tour.
- Go bowling.
- Play a sport together.
- Make desserts for each other.
- Become a kid again, and play games at the arcade.
- Throw a fondue night, and experiment with unique ingredients.
- Go fishing.
- Watch a movie in a drive-in theater, and make a sundae or a root beer float to consume at home before going.
- Visit the zoo.
- Go to a jazz bar.
- Build a jigsaw puzzle together.
- Go to a local festival.
- Visit a flea market or thrift store, and try to find things you can restore together.
- Walk around Ikea, and get a meal there after exploring.
- Miniature golf.
- Attend a tasting of your favorite liquor.
- Check out an art exhibit.
- Paint together.
- Try to fold challenging origami pieces.
- Design mugs for each other.
- Go to a playground, and exchange childhood memories.
- Visit a dog park with your dog.
- Attend a pet show or meetup in your area.
- Make a scrapbook of your best memories together.
- Practice photo shoots if one of you is into photography.
- Attend free lectures.
- Go to a book signing.
- Doing crossword puzzles together.
- Take a dance class.
- Go to '80s or '90s night at a club or bar in your city, and dress up in clothes from that era.
- Paint ceramics together.
- Take a scenic road trip.
- Play video games from your childhood.
- Go to an airport, and watch planes take off together.
- Make and experiment with cocktails. Come up with your own names for the concoctions.
- Take a ferry ride.
- Camp in your room, and make blanket forts. Make s'mores with your microwave. Tell ghost stories.
- Fly a kite together. Perhaps even make the kite together before flying it.
- Play truth or dare with each other.
- Go on a coffee date.
- Visit movie locations in your city, and watch the movies after your tour.
- Go to the beach, and enjoy activities like building sandcastles and skipping rocks.
- Do a spa night at home, and give each other massages.
- Learn a new skill together from YouTube tutorials.
- Start watching a TV series together.
- Start a blog together.
- Go to the rooftop of a very high building and enjoy the view. Bring some sparklers to play with.
- Tackle an upcycling project. See this list of 200 suggestions.
- Write out your bucket list with each other.
- Admire the architecture in your city.
- Watch a play together. There are plenty of affordable plays hosted by colleges and local community groups.
- Pet-sit together.
- Go to a dive bar, and challenge each other to a game of pool, darts, or shuffleboard.
- Go open-house-hopping together.
- Check out an indoor rock climbing gym.
- Play in the snow. Make snow angels and snowmen. Start a snowball fight, and slide down a hill on a sled.
- Check out a local band.
- Redeem a daily deal together.
- Visit a candy store or ice cream parlor, and spend time talking and enjoying sweets.
- Watch a sports game together.
- Attend a poetry reading.
- Participate in a Nerf war.
- Attend free mixers in your city.
- Explore a haunted house.
- Go on a bus or train and get off at a random destination, then spend time exploring that neighborhood.
- Make a pizza together with all your favorite toppings. Get creative, and attempt to make a dessert pizza.
- Watch a high school or college sport together.
- Go to a foreign film night. They usually host one at a school or the library.
- Volunteer at an archeological dig.
- Attend a Home Depot workshop.
- Learn a language together.
- Go geochaching together.
Jessica Alba Just Pulled the Spring Fashion Move You Didn't See Coming
If we could have Jessica Alba pick our outfit for us every morning, our lives would improve significantly. The Honest Co. founder and actress can do no wrong when it comes to selecting a look that's cohesive and stunning from head to toe. Here's further evidence: During her most recent appearance, in Los Angeles for the Getty House Foundation Women's Leadership Series, Jessica manage to impress us with a simple pair of orange suede booties.
The bright pop of color on her feet made her simple and relaxed outfit of ripped skinny jeans, a pull-over stripped shirt, and white oversized blazer totally Spring-ready. She truly makes a case for investing in traditionally Winter pieces in vibrant shades to extend their wear into the warmer months. Smart, Jessica, smart! Scroll ahead for more photos of her gorgeous style.
Your Heart Can't Even Handle This Stunning Neon Smoky Eye DIY
If there's one smoky eye look we have yet to try, it's one with electric shadows. After watching makeup artist Jeffree Star create this breathtakingly bold look, however, we're truly convinced neon is the only way to go.
Jeffree starts by sketching out his lid with an OCC Cosmetic Color Pencil in Anime ($16), before piling on pink shadow from the Urban Decay Electric Palette ($49). The makeup artist doesn't stop there - he continues to layer on different vibrant hues like orange and purple to really make the eyes pop.
The trick to keeping all this from appearing messy? Jeffree advises to blend, blend, and . . . blend. To balance out the bright colors of the eye makeup, Jeffree goes heavy on the contour and chooses Ashton, a deep-red liquid lipstick from Anastasia Beverly Hills ($20), bringing the final look together.
You're probably thinking, "there's no way I can wear this every day," and while you absolutely could (be fearless!), this type of kickass makeup should be reserved for a girls' night out or for festival season - when you know you want to stand out from the crowd.
Women Are Cutting Up Their Beautyblenders - You Won't Believe What's Inside
Just when you think you've seen it all when it comes to Beautyblenders, a very innovative Reddit user has gone and surprised us. Our friends at MIMI brought our attention to Redditor LadyofAcheron, whose curiosity got the better of her, causing her to cut her beloved Beautyblender in half. She wrote:
"Today while desperately trying to get the last bit of foundation out of my Beautyblender, I accidentally ripped a hole in it. I've always been curious how clean the inside of the sponge could actually get. For some reason I always thought it would be dirty in the middle, or even worse moldy! I decided now was the time to satisfy my curiosity and took a pair of scissors to the lil guy. The results surprised me! Besides the two spots I couldn't seem to get clean, it was spotless! So, now you know!"
There was a lot of surprise from other users on the thread, but another Redditor, Ingrid_OHmy, agreed. "I did this once with an old RT sponge and was surprised to find the same thing," she wrote. "Spotless! All foundation to be found was on the outside."
These examples confirm that as long as you properly clean and care for your Beautyblender, you can keep it in your makeup stash for up to three months. After that, repurpose the sponge for other beauty projects, like sponge-on nail art!
Adele Gets Real About Her Pregnancy Beard
One of the many reasons we love Adele (besides her razor-sharp contouring, of course) is her unabashed sincerity. She's been up front about how her breasts have changed since breastfeeding and expressed her fears over getting a "mum bob" haircut. Now she's getting real about her facial hair.
The Mirror reported that during a performance in Glasgow, Scotland, Adele revealed that her pregnancy with son Angelo caused her to grow a beard, which she still has to manage today. "I only cropped it last night . . . I'm not telling a joke. I actually have a beard, but I'm proud of it," the singer announced, quipping that she calls it "Larry."
Denny Martin, D.O., an assistant professor and associate chair of the department of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology at Michigan State University told Glamour.com that this is a common side effect of pregnancy. Estrogen floods the body during gestation, causing pregnant women's hair to stay in the anagen (or growth) phase. While this comes with the desirable trait of making one's mane thick and luscious, it can also cause body hair to sprout up in unusual places, including on the face.
Though experts say that these unwanted strands tend to disappear in the months following childbirth, that may not be the case for Adele. The award-winning vocalist had Angelo in 2012, so it seems like her facial hair is here to stay. While we can't say we'd have such a positive attitude about adding beard removal to our beauty routine, we're impressed by her ability to joke about it.
"My man's got a good beard. He trims it sometimes in the Summer," Adele told concertgoers. "I do have a beard myself, so I can understand when it gets hot in the Summer."
100 Real-Girl Tiny Tattoo Ideas For Your First Ink
If you're a little nervous about a permanent stamp, the best way to start is with something small. We can tell you firsthand that tattoo removal is no easy feat. Luckily, we have endless inspiration of real-girl tattoos that will leave you feeling less anxious about expressing something on your skin. Whether you're looking for a mark with meaning or just a fun design, keep reading to check out all of these teeny-tiny tattoo ideas.
- Additional reporting by Marina Liao
The Heartbreaking Reason This Photo of a Camera's Instruction Manual Should Go Viral
Five-year-old Faith Pfeifer, who was born with spina bifida, wasn't sleeping well in the weeks leading up to the end of January. Her dad, Mic, was checking on her every night just in case, and then, on Jan. 21, he discovered she had passed in her sleep. Heartbroken and devastated, her mother, Ashley, called her best friend, who then offered to take photos of the family with Faith - photos Ashley was so grateful to have. Until they were stolen.
Last week Ashley entered her home and knew something was wrong - theives had come in and taken a lot of their electronics, including the Canon Rebel T3i camera that contained the memory stick with the photos of Faith and the family on it. She took to Facebook with the news in the hope that someone buying the camera off of Craigslist or at a pawn shop would see the photos of Faith on the memory card and be able to return it to her.
"My camera had pictures of our last moments with Faith," Ashley wrote. "Keep the camera - I just want my pictures back that are NOT replaceable."
Read her full post above.
This Little Girl's Reaction to Her Dad Transitioning Is Unexpected - but Everything You'd Hope For
After being asked how her 6-year-old daughter handled the news that her husband is transgender, Shalee Ellis decided to share the exact conversation with the world - and the little girl's response is beyond beautiful.
The proud mother started recording halfway through her candid discussion with Layla as she explained that her dad was going to be transitioning from a man to a woman. "Daddy doesn't feel happy as a boy," Shalee told her daughter in the clip shared on Facebook. "We have decided to help Daddy become the person that his brain and his heart tell him that he really is."
Shalee told BuzzFeed that her little girl had absolutely no difficulty understanding that her daddy's gender identity didn't matter, and her immediate response to the news shows this unconditional love.
Layla: Daddy is a she now?
Shalee: How does that make you feel?
Layla: Good!
Not only does she approve of her dad wearing new clothes and makeup and growing out her hair, this little girl gave a big thumbs up to her daddy's new name, Mallory. Layla declared, "Daddy, I love you so much - even though you're a her, I still love you!"
We Don't Know Whether to Smile or Cry at This Photo of a Military Dad and His Son
"This is a very special picture of my awesome wife holding up my son so that I could get one last kiss before I left for Afghanistan."- Life of Dad user, Matthew Smith
Posted by Life of Dad on Wednesday, March 30, 2016
A recent photo shared by Life of Dad is hitting the Internet right in the feelings - and understandably so.
The adorable photo shown above was shared with the father-focused social network by Matthew Smith, a military dad who shared this sweet moment with his wife and son before leaving to Afghanistan. Smith wrote, "This is a very special picture of my awesome wife holding up my son so that I could get one last kiss before I left for Afghanistan."
Although stories like these are prone to make us weepy, this one in particular was so simple yet telling of that unique bond between father and son.
5 Tips For Introducing Peanuts to Infants
In the last 10 to 15 years, the prevalence of peanut allergies in children has increased like crazy, causing schools to become nut-free and parents to become more worried. Allergist Dr. David Erstein wants to help decrease the amount of worry associated with peanut allergies by helping to lower the rate of children who develop the allergy in the first place.
According to three in-depth peanut allergy studies - LEAP, LEAP-On, and EAT - introducing peanuts to children as young as 5 months old significantly reduces the prevalence of peanut allergies. Dr. Erstein, who has developed a system for introducing peanuts to children based off the extensive scientific research from these studies, shared some tips with us to help make your child's first time eating peanuts a worry-free one.
Read through for five tips to help you begin adding peanuts to your child's diet.
8 Stretches That Can Help Ease the Pain of Sciatica
Are you dealing with shooting pains or numbness from sciatica? Discomfort is caused when the sciatic nerve (which runs from the lower spine down the back of each leg) gets pinched. It can be caused by an injury such as a slipped disk or pelvic fracture, pregnancy, or tight muscles in the lower back, hips, and legs. Whether you feel yours at night or after sitting or standing for a long time, relief is just a yoga mat away with these eight poses.
Iggy Azalea Goes Horseback Riding in LA After Nick Young Cheating Rumors
Iggy Azalea isn't letting cheating rumors get her down. After dealing with relationship drama with fiancé Nick Young earlier this week, the singer took out her frustrations by going horseback riding in LA on Wednesday. Iggy looked calm and collected as she petted one of the horses before taking a ride. Rumors of Nick's infidelity began last week when a video of the LA Lakers player reportedly admitting to his teammate D'Angelo Russell that he cheated on the singer surfaced online. Despite the controversy, the two, who got engaged last June, are allegedly trying to make their relationship work. See more pictures from her recent outing here, and then check out that time she donned a full wedding gown for her Carpool Karaoke session with James Corden.
Amy Schumer Is Already Sharing Some Seriously Cute Moments With Her New Boyfriend
Love is in the air for funny lady Amy Schumer! The 34-year-old comedian only recently began dating 29-year-old Chicago furniture designer Ben Hanisch, but the duo already has some seriously cute moments under their belt. In January, the two shared a cute post-Golden Globes moment together, and during a romantic stroll on the beach, Ben snapped a gorgeous, colorful photo of Amy on Instagram, writing, "There is no place I'd rather be." He also opened up about his love for Amy over the holidays when he captioned a picture of them with, "Sometimes in life you get extremely lucky, and the smartest, funniest, most beautiful woman comes along when you least expect it. Here's to what adventures 2016 brings!" Along with the sweet message, he included a supercute image of the two smiling and hugging, which Amy jokingly replied to and wrote, "I'm pregnant. I didn't know how else to tell you."
A source close to the pair told People, "Amy is so, so happy. She calls him her boyfriend and says he constantly tells her how pretty, sexy, and perfect she is. She feels like she hit the jackpot." Amy was previously linked to comedian Anthony Jeselnik and WWE wrestler Dolph Ziggler. Keep reading to see more photos and videos of the cute couple!
Emily Blunt's Baby Bump Is the True Star of This Red Carpet - Sorry, Chris Hemsworth
Emily Blunt attended another photocall to promote her new movie The Huntsman: Winter's War in London on Thursday. Although she was standing next to the ridiculously sexy Chris Hemsworth, the true star of the event was Emily's growing baby bump. Dressed in a sophisticated beige dress and wearing a gold "H" necklace in honor of her 2-year-old daughter, Hazel, the expectant mom looked gorgeous as usual and laughed it up with her costar (and an owl, naturally) while they posed for photographers. Keep reading to see more of the event, and then check out Emily's adorable night out with husband John Krasinski last week!
It's Official: Ashton Kutcher Has Become an Embarrassing Dad
It didn't take long, but Ashton Kutcher has officially become an embarrassing dad - and it's amazing. The actor joined his former That '70s Show costar Danny Masterson on The Late Late Show With James Corden on Wednesday to show off their "supercool" dad band. Not only are there fake babies and strollers involved, but the three actually rap, sing, and dance. But despite his uncoordinated moves, Ashton continues to be adorable. The actor recently gushed about his 18-month-old daughter, Wyatt, when he stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live earlier this month, and what he had to say will definitely make you smile. See the trio's band in action above, and then check out the trailer for Ashton and Danny's new show, The Ranch.
Lamar Odom Is All Smiles at the Lakers Game After His Hospitalization
Lamar Odom hit up his old stomping grounds on Wednesday when he attended the Lakers game against the Miami Heat at the Staples Center in LA. The former power forward for the Lakers cheered on the team while sitting courtside, dressed in a casual gray sweatshirt and camo pants, and seemed to be in good spirits.
His appearance comes on the heels of a questionable outing at a bar the night before Easter, where Lamar - who was hospitalized in October following a scary overdose - was seen drinking with a group of friends. After the photo was made public on Tuesday, his estranged wife, Khloé Kardashian, posted a few cryptic tweets about feeling "helpless." Keep reading to see more photos of Lamar's evening at the game, and then check out his fun Easter Sunday with the Kardashian family.
Nick Jonas Makes 2 Sexy Outings in 1 Day, Somehow We're Still Standing
It's no secret that Nick Jonas is one seriously sexy dude, but his latest outings kind of just took that to a whole new level. The "Close" singer stepped out twice in one day in LA on Wednesday, proving that he can make the simplest tasks look so good. Nick was first spotted chatting on his phone and making his way to his car on March 30 while wearing jeans and a leather jacket. The star, who is rumored to be single after his fling with Kate Hudson, then had a boys' night out when he attended the Lakers game with a few of his friends. The trio got adorably animated during the game, cheering and standing up in their courtside seats. Keep reading to see more of Nick's day, and then check out the Jonas Brothers' complete dating history.
6 Vegas Culinary Hot Spots That Are Totally Worth the Hype
I'm a Vegas virgin but a well-traveled diner. With the explosion of celebrity-chef-themed restaurants littering Las Vegas's strip over the last few years, it has become apparent the city is transitioning toward becoming a culinary destination and not just a gambling hub. Intrigued, especially by the fact that my favorite chefs, like Michael Mina and Rich Torrisi, are opening new restaurants on the Strip, I put my biases about this party town aside and zipped up my shortest, sparkliest dresses to scope out this new and burgeoning scene with an open mind (and palate). I had to know: are the big-time celebrity-chef restaurants all show or are they legitimate dining destinations? And maybe even more importantly, could a foodie like myself catch the Vegas bug and feel the itch to return?
As I boarded the plane from San Francisco to Vegas, longtime San Francisco Chronicle food critic Michael Bauer published his take on Vegas, posing the question, "Does Las Vegas have a culinary soul?" He concluded, "Authenticity [is] lacking in most big-budget extravaganzas," but there's a growing crop of unique restaurants worth venturing outside of the Strip to experience, especially for seasoned Vegas travelers.
Yet after my experience in Vegas, I discovered that unlike traveling to New Orleans, for instance, people aren't attracted to Vegas for its soul, but rather its LACK of soul. You go there to indulge in your favorite vices, whether it be elaborate cocktails, $100 lobster platters, or ridiculous room service spreads fit for a king. It's a mecca of hedonism, and for a few days, it's an opportunity to really go for it. As long as you have the money or the means, Vegas won't get in your way. The intense allure is the freedom to gratify your senses, not suppress them. So now that you know it's not about the authenticity or the soul, but it's about straight-up satisfying pleasure, where should you go? Here are my recommendations (full disclosure: I have only had a chance to check out M Life destinations thus far):
Bardot Brasserie
When to go: Nurse your inevitable Vegas hangover over a slow, boozy brunch that evokes the best of Paris.
What to order: The double cut bacon (a side dish) will. Cure. Your. Hangover. It's a centimeter thick and should be savored using a fork and knife.
The lowdown:
San Francisco-based chef Michael Mina opened this French restaurant at Aria - and admittedly I wasn't that jazzed about going as I wasn't in Vegas to try something I could eat walking distance from my apartment. However, I couldn't have been more shortsighted. First off, the interior channels authentic French brasserie with its giant brass-pipe bar, black-and-white-tiled floor, and dark-stained wood-paneled walls. The staff blew me away with their hospitality. Every employee I encountered - the hostess, bartender, waiter, manager - seemed genuinely happy and sincerely kind. That's unexpected service, especially in a fast-paced, high-turnover spot like Vegas.
Truth is, I was hungover AF when I went to brunch at Bardot, and yet it was the best meal I had all weekend long. The boulangerie of baked goods impressed me. The laminated dough used in the kouign-amann and croissant baked up to crisp perfection. And my whole table agreed you couldn't get a better, more perfectly caramelized canelé in France itself. The cheese plate featured my favorite of all time - époisses - and was served with caramelized hazelnuts and an adorably petite loaf of sourdough bread. The one item you must order is the french toast, a half-foot slab of brioche topped with mascarpone and nut brittle. The presentation is as insanely decadent as the taste.
Don't think I forgot about the cocktails. Many around you may go for the bottomless Rosés, especially during bunch. However, the cocktail program is impressive and worthy of a separate trip during the 5 o'clock hour. These are no cookie-cutter cocktails. Each has a unique tale and uses freshly pressed juices and house-made bitters and syrups, all of which the bartender is happy to explain to you. And that's probably because Craig Schoettler, Aria's master mixologist, designed the bar as well as the cocktails. He worked the line at the legendary Alinea restaurant for years before opening its sister bar, The Aviary. If you're a massive Grant Achatz fan like myself, this knowledge alone will send you flocking to this bar.
Carbone
The draw: An old-timey steakhouse dinner that balances gimmicky theatrics with mind-blowing renditions of the classics.
Insider tip: Save a ton of money by ordering less, as in a salad and dessert. I assure you - there are so many freebie starters (the giant bread basket, pickled veggies, and a plate of cured meat), you can get away with it and still leave full.
The lowdown:
I adore New York City's chef Rich Torrisi, so I couldn't wait to try Carbone at Aria. The contrived entryway to Carbone will make you feel like you're stepping into a Broadway stage set. It's like a gimmicky replica of an old-timey New York steakhouse. Yet inside the wooden doors, the grandiose design of the bar and main dining room are at once nostalgic and completely innovative. At the table, I felt like I was at the theater, sitting back in a red-velvet-upholstered booth while watching a fantastical display of bananas flambéed at the table next to me or a caesar salad tossed and plated tableside. These two dishes, which ironically aren't Italian, are the reason to go to Carbone.
My colleague Nicole Iizuka and I agreed it was the best caesar in the world. Buttery little gem lettuce, a robustly garlicky dressing, and the biggest, most satisfying croutons we'd ever encountered make it so extraordinary.
The spectacle of the three-foot flaming bananas are reason enough to order them, but then there's the amaretti crumble, bread pudding, and crème fraiche ice cream with a mouthfeel like chewy Turkish ice cream.
Dinner at Harvest by Roy Ellamar
The appeal: Unlike other Vegas venues, this restaurant doesn't lean on showy distractions - it's all about serving elevated local food. The dining room layout also makes it feel private for a cozy date night.
Insider tip: Order the tuna poke (it's on the snack cart, not the menu). The chef is from Hawaii and values sourcing the freshest seafood available in the states, plus dare I admit it's better than the poke you'll find on the islands?
The lowdown:
Hawaiian native Roy Ellamar is the soul of Vegas, if there ever will be one. This man has made it his mission to bring the farm-to-table concept to Vegas by supporting local farmers as they experiment with what crops they can possibly grow in the bleak, sunny desert. It turns out that they can grow quite a lot, and there are still so many discoveries to be made. I anticipate, in the next decade, Vegas will shift away from relying on celebrity chefs to draw customers to its doors, and instead there will be Vegas-famous chefs like Roy who make a name for themselves here.
Aria Tower Suites Room Service
Insider tip: This being a new hotel, Aria offers room service ordering through tablets. Thanks, technology, for letting us not only see the description of a menu item but also actually look at high-res images of it, too.
The lowdown:
We stayed at the new Aria suites, and while the view of the Strip was awesome, the most memorable part of the stay was the room service. We ordered berries and whipped cream, smoked salmon, and rice congee. Completely random, yes, but that's the joy of Vegas. It's deliriously absurd, and no one will bat an eye.
Lago
Insider Tip: Request the front and center table on the balcony. It's the best seat in the house.
The lowdown:
Lago at the Bellagio is not to be missed, but not for its food or cocktails. The balcony view of the iconic fountain is breathtaking, and the spectacle of seeing multiple shows in one seating is worth a reservation alone. If you do go there for a quick nibble, opt for Champagne and the prosciutto flatbread, and kick back.
Skyfall
Insider Tip: Find the ladies' restroom that has a corner stall. The toilet faces a floor-to-ceiling window, and you can't help but giggle as you do your business while being exposed to literally hundreds of buildings. Here's hoping the window is mirrored . . .
The lowdown:
Skyfall Lounge has a cocktail program that was developed by Proprietors LLC, the esteemed craft cocktail consultants out of LA, and it's simply a sexy place to hang out and people-watch while overlooking the entire Las Vegas strip. You'll find the cocktails are a refuge from overpriced, sugary-sweet, vodka-fueled drinks that line the Strip.
In less than 72 hours, I experienced Vegas hard and couldn't wait to return home to green juices and my quiet apartment. I discovered the big-time celebrity-chef restaurants are all show, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Consider what's worthy of dropping those Franklins: the taste or the spectacle or a little of both. I have yet to explore all the Caesars Palace holdings - especially Giada De Laurentiis's and Guy Fieri's restaurants. That will come soon, very soon. I also plan to go off the beaten path to try a few of Nicole's favorites: Lotus of Siam, The Oyster Bar at Palace Station, and Aburiya Raku. Because yes, I did love my Vegas dining experience, and I'm eager to subject my taste buds to more of its gluttony.
A Month-by-Month Guide to the Royal Appearances
As we contemplate what might happen in our lives over the next 12 months, the royal family are planning a pretty rigid calendar of obligations and traditions. While their assorted engagements, tours, and charity obligations don't have an annual structure, there are many dates in their diaries that will always remain the same - no matter what. Why will William be sporting feathers in the Spring? Where will Harry be in the Fall? And why will the queen be sitting in a deckchair in September? Here we guide you though the family's "must-do" dates, month by month.
Here's How to Host a Coffee Tasting Party Like a Pro
Put a spin on your next brunch or afternoon gathering and host a coffee party. It's a unique twist on a traditional wine tasting that lets guests sip different roasts and blends. I love the idea of keeping the featured beans a surprise until the end of the party and then sharing with a big reveal. Leaving out mini notepads adds to the fun by letting guests write down how they're feeling about the different types of coffee. Pair with sweet and savory snacks and you're ready to party.
Location courtesy of Breather.
Meet the Powerhouse Leafy Green That Puts Kale and Spinach to Shame
When we saw Jamie Oliver say that "the sorrel leaf is making a comeback," our first reaction was, "wait, what?"
Sorrel, also known as spinach dock, is quite similar to spinach in appearance, and similarly chock-full of nutrients. Just one cup of this dark, leafy green (30 calories) contains about 3 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, 106 percent of your daily vitamins A and C, 17 percent iron (so much energy!), over 500 milligrams of potassium (more than a banana), 10 percent of your vitamin B6, and 34 percent of your daily magnesium. Here are some reasons you should be adding this green into your repertoire.
- It outshines similar greens in terms of nutrients. Compared to spinach, it's significantly higher in fiber, protein, potassium, vitamin A, calcium, iron, B6, vitamin C (by nearly nine times), and magnesium (by nearly six times). Compared to kale, it's also got higher nutrient values, with even fewer calories and carbohydrates.
- You'll eat your way to feeling better. The high levels of magnesium and B6 are anxiety relieving, and can reduce stress. The massive levels of potassium make spinach dock a great remedy for cramped muscles, while iron provides energy and vitamins A and C help with immunity.
- It doesn't taste like leaves. If you want to try green juice but don't like the "leafy" taste, it's time to try sorrel. It has a tangy, tart flavor - some describe it as lemony or like a sour green apple - and it tastes nothing like kale or spinach. Try it in a green juice, a smoothie, or a fresh salad with fruit.
Tired of Boring Mornings? We Have 7 Ways to Change Up Your Routine
Mornings at our house are literally the same every day of the week. I get that kids need routine, but us adults get a bit bored with everything always being on repeat. Child sleeps in, adults are frazzled, breakfast is rushed, and clothes are oddly assembled. Once everyone gets out the door, it sometimes feels like half the day has already happened - without anything really being accomplished. Here's how to mix things up while staying productive.
- Jump into bed: Instead of constantly having to drag your little one out of bed, set the alarm a little earlier, and invite them in for a little snuggle time before starting the day. It's a lovely way to ease into the morning, and it might end in a bit of a tickle fest or pillow fight.
- Make a morning playlist: One of the things we love to do at our house is turn up the music first thing in the morning, which gets everyone out of bed. I like making playlists filled with two-minute songs so it helps everyone move along and stay on time. Have your little one brush their teeth and wash their face for one song then spend another getting dressed.
- Organize your child's drawers: Every morning at our house, there are usually some tears involved when it comes to the outfit my daughter put together. I'm OK with creative freedom, but pairing a pink tutu over jeans, ballet slippers, and a tank top (in the middle of Winter) is a no go. End the epic battles and edit your child's drawers with only school-approved items that she can mix and match on her own.
- Host a bathrobe breakfast: It might seem funny, but after (finally) getting yourself dressed, put a robe over your clothes, which protects you from child messes and spills. It's actually a great habit to get into with the entire family. Implement by declaring it a robes-only breakfast and then stick with it.
- Make breakfast convenient: Skip grabbing cereal, milk, and a bowl. Make it deliciously different and rise and shine with a fluffy egg-and-sausage-stuffed Jimmy Dean Delights Turkey Sausage English Muffin that everyone will love. It's so easy to make and eat (even on the go!), and you can pair it with fresh fruit and juice. Make the meal more exciting by playing One Truth and a Lie or telling a made-up story together.
- Create a scavenger hunt: Instead of being the one that's always putting it on your kids to find this or that, create a morning scavenger hunt that they can work on themselves. Write it out for budding readers or draw pictures for little ones. They'll have fun while hunting for backpacks, library books, lunches, or other needed items.
- Have a sing-off: Everyone has a song they love belting out - even your kids. Crank the tunes and see who can karaoke the best on your way to school. You'll all be laughing and smiling before heading off in your different directions.
More From Jimmy Dean Delights
Good mornings lead to great days with Jimmy Dean! Shine on!
Ben Affleck Steps Out With a Smirk Following the Release of Batman v Superman
Ben Affleck flashed a sweet smirk while out in Santa Monica, CA, on Wednesday afternoon. His casual outing comes on the heels of a busy month for the actor, whose movie Batman v Superman was recently released. After breaking his silence on estranged wife Jennifer Garner's Vanity Fair interview, he revealed a surprising fact about his much-talked-about back tattoo, and days later, he made an adorable appearance on The Tonight Show. He also recently hinted at a possible reconcilation with Jennifer when he stopped by CBS This Morning. Keep reading to see more photos, and then check out 9 things Ben and Jennifer have said about each other since their split.
These Celebrity Snapchat Accounts Are So Hot They May Actually Steam Up Your Phone Screen
Now that a bunch of your favorite stars are on Snapchat, it's even harder to choose who you want to follow. Since there are so many stories to browse through, we've made your life easier and rounded up the hottest accounts to follow. But careful - these stars are so hot they might actually steam up your phone screen. Read on to see who you should add to your friends list, and then see why Kylie Jenner is the queen of Snapchat.
Behati Prinsloo Shows Off Her Growing Belly During a Lunch Date With Lily Aldridge
Behati Prinsloo is already glowing! On Wednesday, the model, who is expecting her first child with husband Adam Levine, stepped out for lunch with fellow Victoria Secret Angels Lily Aldridge and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in West Hollywood. While making her way to the restaurant, Behati flashed a big smile and gave photographers a peek at her growing belly in a body-hugging striped dress. News of Behati's pregnancy made the rounds nearly three weeks ago, but according to reports, she's already three to four months along. Just last week, she flaunted her baby bump from all angles while celebrating the debut of her new collaboration with Juicy Couture. Keep reading to see photos from Behati's lunch date, then check out all the reasons Adam is going to be a cool dad.
Jessica Simpson Puts Her Dangerous Curves on Display During Her Girls' Trip to Mexico
Jessica Simpson's swimsuit body is out of control! Earlier this week, the singer-turned-fashion-designer jetted off to Cabo San Lucas to celebrate her stylist pal Nicole Chavez's 40th birthday, and fortunately, Jessica took to Instagram to document her bikini-filled vacation. On Wednesday, the mother of two posted a supersexy snap of herself flaunting her killer curves in a body-hugging yellow one-piece with the words "Caution: Dangerous Curves" written across it, along with the caption, "Enough said." In addition to her racy photo, Jessica shared a few cute snaps with her friends, Nicole and Cacee Cobb.
Coincidentally, Jessica was in Mexico in January celebrating her mom, Tina's, birthday with her family. Keep reading to see more photos from Jessica's girls' trip, and then check out her sexiest moments on social media.
How to Eat Clean All Day Long
Whether you're trying to take off weight or improve your health, adopting a clean-eating lifestyle can be the change you need to see (and feel) the results. Replacing processed foods with natural, unrefined options might seem like a struggle at first, but soon it will feel like second nature. If you're curious what it's about, or you're ready to eat clean for a day, here's what to do all day long.
Morning
- Start the morning with a smart sip: After you've sipped on some water, kick your clean-eating plan into gear with a healthy green juice or hot water with lemon before breakfast. As you hydrate with H2O, the lemon works to balance your body's pH and aid in healthy digestion.
- Skip sugar in your coffee: Your sugar-laden latte or iced coffee is (unfortunately) not a clean choice. Skip the sugar - and the calories, bloat, and crash that can come with it - and opt for a strong, bold, and unsweetened caffeinated choice instead.
- Kick out refined carbs: No goods from the pastry case or bagels this morning! If you like to start the day with carbs, be sure to keep them complex (like quinoa or sweet potato) and full of fiber. This way you'll be supporting your digestion and your energy levels.
Afternoon
- Reach for green tea: Overstimulating with loads of coffee can leave you feeling anxious and unfocused, so swap out your second cup of joe for antioxidant-rich green tea. It's high in catechins, which speed up liver activity and increase the production of detoxification enzymes.
- Cut out condiments: Ketchup, mayo, ranch dressing - whatever comforting condiment is your pick - keep it far away from a day of clean eats. Focus on fresh natural flavors of your favorite herbs and citrus to add extra flavor and benefits to your plate. If you're in need of something creamy on a sandwich or salad, spread on avocado for all its omega-3 acids and fiber.
- Bring on the greens: When it comes to lunch and dinner, always add something green to your plate. Serve spinach with last night's leftovers or order a satisfying salad at your favorite lunch spot. It ups the nutrition of every clean meal, every time.
Evening
- Skip the booze: Beyond all the sugar and unnecessary calories an evening cocktail offers, alcohol can keep you up or make for a restless night of sleep. Skip the booze, and opt for an all-natural mocktail instead.
- Go au natural with dessert: You don't need to say sayonara to a sweet ending at the end of your meal - just keep it clean and natural instead of overloading with sugar and chemicals. Grab a light treat like a piece of fresh fruit or a taste of dark chocolate instead to stay on course.
- Keep water beside your bed: Hydration is key to any healthy lifestyle, and sipping on water through the night will keep you feeling energized and clear-headed the following morning. One of the best ways to ensure a great next day is a good night's sleep and water ready to go in the morning!
These Healthy, Chewable Coffee Cubes Might Just Replace Your Cup of Joe
Need coffee to jump-start your mornings, but concerned about your caffeine intake? Coffee-lovers, all your problems are about to be solved with chewable coffee, a healthier alternative that focuses on brain power over jitters. Created by a Silicon Valley startup called Nootrobox, Go Cubes contain the same amount of caffeine as one cup of coffee (two cubes hold 100 mg of caffeine) but with other safe ingredients for "enhanced focus and clarity" as advertised. Supplements including L-theanine - a mental booster commonly found in green tea - B6, and methylated B12 are precisely measured and featured in each cube.
Not only are they spill-free and healthy, but according to Caitlin McGarry of Macworld, they also taste great. "The texture is like a Sour Patch Kid, though a cube tastes almost exactly like a latte," she wrote. Although you can't customize your order at the counter, Go Cubes are made with cold brew coffee and come in three flavors: mocha, pure drip, and latte.
Related: Health Benefits of Coffee
Although it's not advised to consume the concentrated dosage on an empty stomach, these cubes will kick your cognitive abilities into full gear. "When I hit my 3:00 p.m. post-lunch slump, two cubes turned me into a machine of productivity." This is especially great news for those who look to caffeine to boost workouts, since Go Cubes eliminate the need to down an entire cup of java before exercising.
A box of 20 four-packs costs about $53 on their website or about $20 for six four-packs, which isn't too bad considering the amount we pay for a real latte. Go Cubes claims to be the future of coffee, and with these benefits, they just might be!
Blake Shelton Is Ruggedly Handsome in His Music Video For "Came Here to Forget"
If you didn't have a crush on Blake Shelton before, you probably will now. The country singer debuted his new music video for "Came Here to Forget" on Tuesday night during the season premiere of Deadliest Catch, and it's definitely got us feeling a lot of emotions. Not only does it include beautiful black-and-white shots of the beach, but it also showcases close-ups of Blake's ruggedly handsome features. The song, which is the first single off his upcoming album, If I'm Honest, is about two people coming together to get over their exes. While nothing has been confirmed, it has been widely speculated to be about his girlfriend, Gwen Stefani, who was getting over her divorce from Gavin Rossdale at the same time Blake was getting over his split from Miranda Lambert. See the full video above, and then check out the pair's sweetest moments together.
25 Indie Rock Songs That Will Make Your First Wedding Dance Last a Lifetime
Looking for something a bit more eclectic for your first dance? Finding the perfect indie rock wedding playlist can be tricky business, what with all the fresh new music and modern R&B hits. But it's even harder when you're trying to pick out just one song. Lucky for you, we've rounded up the most swoon-worthy indie rock songs of all time that will make your first wedding dance last a lifetime. Keep reading and listen to each song, and if you still need a few more suggestions, check out all of our wedding music content.
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