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.
mercredi 11 mai 2016
This Harry Potter Wedding Is Every Witch and Wizard's Dream Come True
Some couples love Harry Potter so much, they make it a part of their wedding process somehow - or just make it the whole theme. Meet the couple who had the Harry Potter wedding theme from your dreams, complete with shoes, cufflinks, and a bouquet as odes to the books.
The married couple, Cassie and Lewis Byrom, had their wedding at Manchester Town Hall in the UK, a place that literally looks like the real-life Hogwarts. Every part of their wedding was touched by Harry Potter in some form, and they even held a reading from The Order of Phoenix at their ceremony. As you'll see from the photos, the wedding looks amazing, almost like it was put together by magic. It makes total sense, considering the couple got engaged at Harry Potter World.
Look ahead to see photos from the wedding and start copying ideas ASAP. Oh and yes, Cassie's bouquet is literally made out of pages from the books - check it out!
13 Ways to Save Major Money at Sam's Club
If you know how to be a smart shopper, there's no doubt you have a Sam's Club membership. The wholesale store offers ridiculously good deals on just about anything you can think of: groceries, furniture, clothes, and tons more products. If you want to save even more when you head into the store, we've got some tips and tricks that will make shopping even better. Keep reading to learn them all!
See Why These Are the Most Viral Posts of 2016 So Far
It might only be May, but the Internet's hard at work crafting up memes, jokes, and photoshops to make 2016 memorable. Popular image-sharing site Imgur, home to some of the best viral posts out there, already has a list of the 10 most popular images this year. Our favorite ones from the list include the Ted Cruz and Kevin from The Office comparison and a certain flight attendant who looks like he belongs in The Hunger Games. Check out the roundup ahead, and if you're feeling nostalgic, look at the best memes from last year.
18 Tiny Magical Harry Potter Tattoo Ideas
While we continue to debate and think of new theories about the wizarding world, we also spend time thinking about all the different ways to permanently show off our love of Harry Potter. Though some people might prefer quotes or large illustrations, we also know tiny tattoos are just as lovely. Ahead, we've rounded up some of the best small tattoo ideas that are perfect for any fan of the books and films.
NASA's Kepler Mission Just Discovered a Whopping 1,284 New Planets
NASA has found yet another mind-blowing discovery in outer space. The Kepler mission announced on NASA's website that it has found 1,284 new planets, which makes it "the single largest finding of planets to date."
"This announcement more than doubles the number of confirmed planets from Kepler," said Ellen Stofan, chief scientist at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "This gives us hope that somewhere out there, around a star much like ours, we can eventually discover another Earth."
The Kepler mission was first launched in March 2009 as an attempt to find potentially habitable Earth-size planets. Kepler monitors "150,000 stars in a single patch of sky, measuring the tiny, telltale dip in the brightness of a star that can be produced by a transiting planet."
Since the whole project began, Kepler has verified 2,325 new planet candidates from over 5,000. The latest exciting planetary findings from Kepler only prove that there is still much to learn about other planets out there.
mardi 10 mai 2016
101 Small Ways to Save Big
Saving money can seem like such a gargantuan task. But if you take baby steps and implement some of these frugal changes slowly, you may not even realize that you're actually padding up your bank account. Make these small changes in your life for a big difference in your net worth:
- Get a deep freezer so you have a place to store the items you buy in bulk and on sale.
- Buy whole hams and have the deli guy slice it for cheaper cuts.
- Get over-the-counter meds from Amazon - they tend to be cheaper.
- Automate money from your paycheck to your savings every month so you won't be tempted to overspend.
- Pick your own fruits from a local orchard for amazingly low prices.
- Know what the average prices for common goods are so you can better comparison-shop.
- Find affordable recipes for meals.
- Avoid out-of-network ATMs.
- Check your bills for mistakes.
- Bring your lunch to work.
- Take public transportation as much as you can.
- Save your change.
- Insulate your home to save on energy bills.
- Use the stranger test to avoid impulse shopping. Picture a stranger offering you the cash value of the purchase or the purchase to you, and figure out which one you would pick.
- Keep your home clean so you don't have to buy expensive products to cut through the grime.
- Keep your home organized so you know what you have and won't buy duplicates at the store.
- Take a shopping list with you to the grocery store and stick to it.
- Don't go to the supermarket hungry - it may cause you to buy more.
- Try ethnic supermarkets. You may find cheaper fresh produce and meats.
- Maintain your clothes to reduce visits to the dry cleaner.
- Grow your own food.
- Make your own cleaning supplies, like detergent, dryer sheets, and multipurpose cleaners.
- Get a home energy audit.
- Cut out cable TV.
- Max out an employer-matched 401K plan.
- If you're a student, don't skip class. You are paying for your education.
- Restore or build your own furniture.
- Exercise outside of a gym.
- Use a rewards credit card instead of a debit card if you have a good handle on your spending.
- Buy used items.
- Learn how to do your own home repairs.
- When you're eating out, drink water only and avoid sodas and other overpriced drinks.
- Wait out luxury purchases so you're not buying them on impulse.
- Scour Craigslist for free things.
- Swap clothing with your friends.
- Use vinegar to clean your home.
- Buy quality clothes so they last longer.
- Be honest with your friends about your budget and when you can't afford to do things.
- Use less of products, such as shampoo, detergent, and more.
- Start looking well in advance for big purchases.
- Plan a trip early.
- Focus on preventative care.
- Try to always buy things at a discount, which means waiting for the items to go on sale. Some sites even let you tag your desired items with alerts that will notify you when they go on sale.
- Get a thermostat.
- Dry your clothes on a clothesline.
- Buy generic items.
- Make your own snacks instead of buying them from the vending machine.
- Know when to skip organic.
- Store your leftovers and eat them the next day.
- Ditch bottled water and get a Brita filter ($11).
- Use your local library's services.
- Use apps that let you talk and text for free.
- Listen to music for free on Spotify and Pandora.
- Skip the alcoholic drinks on a night out, as they can add up. Instead, enjoy some drinks with friends at someone's house beforehand.
- Pick afternoon showtimes for movies to get a cheaper rate.
- Return any items you mispurchased immediately.
- Carpool with people to get to work.
- Attend free events in your city.
- Host a board-game night instead of a night out.
- Throw a potluck.
- Skip a trip to the tailor and learn to do basic sewing fixes yourself.
- Pick takeout over delivery.
- Make your own meals or at least eat more homemade meals than you eat out.
- Turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use.
- Make the most of the groceries you have before running out to get more.
- Be smart about buying in bulk.
- Avoid precut produce.
- Make your own personal care items, such as lotion and mouthwash.
- Don't throw away items - upcycle them into these cool projects.
- Sell the things you no longer need, instead of throwing them away.
- Negotiate and haggle your way into getting a better price.
- Try to go cash-only on the weekends.
- Monitor your bank or Mint account regularly so you are spending consciously every day.
- Explore your city instead of taking a trip.
- Brush and floss every day to save hundreds or even thousands on dental bills down the road.
- Skip the diamond for your engagement ring, or even buy a lab-grown one.
- Unsubscribe to daily deal emails.
- Be aware of roaming fees when you travel abroad.
- Use WiFi when you can to conserve data on your smartphone.
- Pay bills when you receive them so you don't forget about them.
- Check your credit score annually to make sure there are no errors or inaccuracies.
- Use apps like Cheap Gas! or the website GasBuddy.com to check out where the cheapest gas is around you.
- Shop flea markets and dollar stores.
- Instead of spending a lot of money on gifts for people, pick from the plenty of inexpensive gifts that are just as good.
- Assess your subscriptions and see if you can get a cheaper plan.
- Use up your daily deals, gift cards, and credits before they expire.
- Download one of these money-saving apps.
- Choose a savings account with a high interest rate.
- Make sure you're taking advantage of your employer's benefits and discounts.
- Use the power of compound interest to fund your retirement dreams - start stashing more money into your retirement accounts.
- Wash your laundry in cold water.
- Travel during the off-season to get cheaper rates on flights and hotels.
- Buy generic drugs at Costco if you're paying out of pocket.
- Get your pet neutered and spayed at a shelter - the costs tend to be cheaper.
- Consider a hostel or a vacation rental home instead of a hotel.
- Clean your household machines to keep them running efficiently.
- Buy in-season produce to save.
- Shop around for a home insurance policy to save.
- Make sure your health is covered by insurance to protect yourself from unexpected medical charges. If you don't have a job, you can stay on your parents' plan until you are 26. Here are other ways to shop for your own insurance.
- Create a $5 savings jar - whenever you have $5 in hand, drop it in the jar.
- Use a prepaid phone instead of signing up for a phone plan.
There's Nothing Better Than a Dog Just Trying to Make His Tiny Human Laugh
One of the sweetest sounds in the world is the sound of a baby laughing. We can thank this superplayful pup for getting down for playtime with his tiny human, all in the hopes of making him laugh. Watch the two of them have a blast in the video above, and find even more adorable animal videos here.
This Harry Potter Theory Is So Crazy, It Might Just Be True
Until now, there weren't many major connections between Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (which is set in 1920s New York) and the Harry Potter series (set in 1990s Britain). The only standouts included Beasts-protagonist Newt Scamander's grandson Rolf eventually marrying Luna Lovegood, and Newt authoring a magizoology textbook that remains popular throughout Harry's lifetime. But thanks to an insane connection discovered by MuggleNet, it's possible that Rubeus Hagrid also connects the two series.
The theorized connection is based on a quote by a massive acromantula, Aragog, in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets: "I came to Hagrid from a distant land, in the pockets of a traveler." Newt Scamander, who famously collects magical creatures during his world travels in Fantastic Beasts, fits Aragog's description - with this in mind, the quote suggests that a young Rubeus Hagrid may have acquired his arachnid friend from Scamander himself. Considering that Newt is only middle-aged by the time Hagrid attends Hogwarts in the 1940s, it's an entirely plausible theory.
If this theory proves true, it adds a whole new layer of awesomeness to J.K. Rowling's wizarding world. Hagrid and Scamander each have a fondness for magical creatures, and both were expelled from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry before returning as professors. Add this to the list of reasons Harry Potter simply can't be beat!
11 Free Organizational Apps to Help You Get Your Sh*t Together
It's not easy staying on top of all your to-dos, errands, and files, but luckily, there's an app for each of those. If you're looking to stay organized or get a grip on your busy life, you've come to the right place. For anything from prioritizing projects and scheduling tasks to storing all your brilliant ideas, we've found the best mobile apps that make managing your day-to-day a bit easier. The best part? The features mentioned here are free! Make life seamless on and offline by downloading these 11 helpful productivity and organizational apps ahead - you'll wonder how you ever surived without them.
See Facebook's Best 360 Videos of the Year So Far
Get your countdown clocks ready, because companies are already beginning to round up their best posts of the year. We've already seen the best memes so far, but now, prepare to spend hours with Facebook's most popular 360 videos of 2016.
When 360 videos first launched in September 2015, companies just barely touched the surface of what could be done with it. Now, music videos, volcano eruptions, and other mesmerizing videos exist. The list ahead is ranked by the amount of time spent on each video - not views, comments, shares, or reactions. To get the full experience on your desktop, drag your cursor around. If you're viewing it on your phone, use your finger to move around the video or flip your device. You can also use Samsung Gear VR or Oculus Rift to view them.
Check out the videos ahead - you might just get the itch to make your own.
What's the Best Time to Submit a Job Application?
There are so many factors involved in job hunting that it's natural to want to get every nitty gritty aspect right. While it's important to jump on a listing as soon as you can get your material together, there isn't any reason to get hung up on the time of day you submit your initial correspondence or application.
Each hiring manager will have his or her own process for reviewing the applications that come in and a set deadline for filling the position. It's more important to make sure your cover letter is flawless and that your correspondence is impressive than it is to be concerned with the time you submit it. On the off chance the hiring manager is the type of person who pays attention to the time you submit your application, sending an email early in the morning - as in between 6 and 9 a.m. - could be impressive because it says you are an enthusiastic early bird. That being said, make sure to keep the hiring manager's schedule in mind if you decided to make a follow-up call. In that case, call during business hours on a lower stress day of the week like Tuesday or Wednesday and plan what you will say in advance. Best of luck!
6- and 7-Year-Olds Couldn't Solve This Math Test Question, and We're Not Surprised
The internet is having a field day figuring out what the real answer is to a simple math problem. Twitter user Louise Bloxham shared a math problem from a Year 2 (equivalent to the first grade in the US) workbook that asked, "There were some people on a train. 19 people get off the train at the first stop. 17 people get on the train. Now there are 63 people on the train. How many people were on the train to begin with?"
@MichaelRosenYes Have you seen this one? Year 2!! http://pic.twitter.com/TDVjccH8U4
- Louise Bloxham (@LouiseBloxham) May 7, 2016
If you try solving it yourself, you'll probably get this setup: X - 19 + 17 = 63. All you have to do is solve for x, which gives you 65 as the answer:
@rachelrossiter @LouiseBloxham @MichaelRosenYes It is 65. x - 19 + 17 = 63
Therefore x -2 = 63 ...x = 65. Algebraic solution for a y2 Q.- Robyn Duckworth (@DuckworthRobyn) May 8, 2016
But if you look further into the comments, users start arguing that the answer is 46, not 65.
@teach_well @carveresque on a teacher's FB group a teacher said it was on the mark scheme as Being 46
- Louise Bloxham (@LouiseBloxham) May 8, 2016
Someone even drew a detailed illustration of how they came to that number:
@LouiseBloxham @MichaelRosenYes http://pic.twitter.com/OqhMnG7Wwq
- かな、かな@困惑中 (@kanaoyudu) May 10, 2016
Other commentators became philosophical and said that the math problem fails to factor in the train driver and inspector:
@PotMoss @MichaelRosenYes @LouiseBloxham Husband says "66, because we've forgotten train driver". But that doesn't factor in inspector...
- Mrs Davison (@Mrs_Dav_I_Son) May 8, 2016
The situation apparently became too much for one person, who said that everyone was "looking at it algebraically for proof purposes," when it was really just a simple equation.
@LouiseBloxham @MichaelRosenYes Question is perfectly fine. We are looking at it algebraically for proof purposes but it's simple add + sub.
- Olachi Akin (@ixXAkinXxi) May 9, 2016
Although the math question has stumped some parents and young children, the main concern here is not whether or not it can be solved, but if 6- and 7-year-olds should've been asked it. That answer to that question is simple: if there's this much debate about it with adults, then it's not suitable for children.
How 3 Kickass Women Became the Boss
When Rebecca Patterson first arrived on Capitol Hill, she was told to wear a longer skirt - and stop going by "Becky."
It was the best advice she ever received.
Learning to accept criticism when someone goes out of his or her way to offer it is necessary skill in today's workplace, said Patterson, chief investment officer for Bessemer Trust Companies.
Twenty years later, she said, the advice is still true for women just starting out in the business.
Patterson, along with Kirsten Flanik, president at BBDO New York, and Ava Parker, president of Palm Beach State College, shared their insights and experiences at a recent Becoming a Woman of Influence event at the University of Florida.
All agreed now is the best time to be a woman in any industry. But there are still challenges.
The boys' club still exists, Patterson said. Deals are still made on the golf course. "Don't let them get away with it," she said. The key to women's advancement is recognizing when the sexism is less overt and advocating for oneself. According to a Carnegie Mellon study, only seven percent of women were negotiating salaries after graduation - vs. 57 percent of men.
Flanik said sometimes she won't hire a woman if she doesn't ask for a raise outright. Women get rewarded once they've achieved, but it doesn't always have to be that way.
"Women are still judged by what they look like and what they wear more than any man anywhere," said Parker, who is the first female president of the college in its 83-year history. But once she became the boss, she knew who to go to when she needed something done. "If it's really hard, and I want to get it done, I'll ask a woman," she said.
Still, finding who to reach out to up and down the corporate ladder can be challenging. A mentor has to find you, Flanik said. "You get a mentor not by asking but by impressing," she said.
Patterson agreed. "It's called polite stalking," she said. "You can't be obnoxious; you can't be subtle."
Sending a friendly intro email, remembering thank you notes, and buying someone a cup of coffee can still take women far. Getting ahead and staying ahead remains a challenge. Do everything, do it well, and then ask for the promotion. "Your career is decided when you're not in the room," she said. Ask if there's anything else you can do, or do it anyway.
Women become bosses by exceeding expectations, Flanik said. And students and recent graduates can learn by reaching out, taking risks, and sometimes even failing.
Failure is the best thing that can happen, she said. Sometimes failure is necessary to learn how to win. If an advertising campaign doesn't stick, she evaluates what went wrong and discovers what can be done next time to correct the problem.
But with that constant resilience can come doubters. "I've been called stubborn a lot," Patterson said. "I might fail but someone's gotta try."
15 Chic Bachelorette Favors Under $1
Your big day is almost here . . . But first, the bachelorette party! Send your guests home with these fun party favors that won't break the bank.
22 J.K. Rowling Facts That Prove She Is ACTUALLY a Magical Human
J.K. Rowling is a mastermind. She's the heart and soul of the Harry Potter world. She has touched millions of lives all over the world. She's a queen in all ways. And, my personal favorite, she is snarky as all hell. As fans know, her path to success wasn't always easy, but her story is inspiring to us all. Here are 22 facts that will make you love her even more. Yes, that's possible.
5 Things Everyone Who Has Lived Abroad Can Relate To
"You're so lucky!" are the most prominent words I get to hear when I tell people that I've lived in Paris, Florence, London, and New York in the past five years. Indeed, I have been incredibly lucky. However, most people do not seem to realize that I have not been enjoying some sort of long-term vacation. I was working in these cities - and that comes with far more challenges than anyone could imagine hiding behind my pretty social media posts of macarons in the Marais or red buses in front of Big Ben.
While I hadn't even boarded a plane until the age of 21, moving countries has now become somewhat of an addiction in a quest to find the bigger and better, the best place to call home. Yet, I continue to struggle with the crucial question: "What is home?" Sure, traveling has significantly broadened my horizons, but it has also taken its toll. Do I regret it? No, never. I just wish I had given these pros and cons some more thought before eagerly leaving my comfortable home to live the life of an expat.
You Win Some, You Lose Some
Meeting new people and making new friends is probably one of the greatest benefits when moving countries. Over the years, I've learned so much from conversations with all sorts of people, from celebrities to random strangers on the street. The encounters opened my mind and made me more accepting of other views, ideas, and lifestyles. They also allowed me to build a network of contacts around the globe - something that comes in quite handy when you're about to move to another country yet again.
However, some of the people that I had been closest with were the ones suffering the most from my travels. While I was busy making new friends and adapting to a new life, the loved ones I had left behind were suffering. Relationships with family and friends changed; some even vanished. There is just no kidding yourself: when you're moving to another country, you are probably being a bit selfish. I am happy that I chose to follow my dreams, but I also still can't ditch that feeling of guilt here and there, especially when my mom starts crying at the airport when we say our goodbyes. That's something that hasn't changed in five years.
If You Can Make It There, You'll Make It Anywhere
Feeling lonely occasionally - notably in the beginning, when you're struggling to meet new people - is normal and totally OK. But once you ditch your timidity and get out there to connect with colleagues, neighbors, or complete strangers, you will feel more independent than ever before.
Dealing with government officials and banks or even getting a flawless haircut can be difficult enough in your native tongue. So try imagining filing a tax return, telling the doctor why you're not feeling well, or explaining to the police that someone just broke into your apartment in another language! These situations certainly were overwhelming to me at first, but mastering them was unbelievably liberating. Also, just always remember that you do not have to tackle all the hurdles all by yourself. Ask a colleague for a short translation to clarify legal terms, join expatriate groups on social media to get insider advice, or even seek help from your consulate.
It's a Party - Until Someone Cries
Living in Paris, London, and New York has taken me to fancy parties, exciting art exhibitions, and fashion shows. However, I wasn't able to travel home to attend my grandma's funeral. I also missed the birth of my first niece - and she barely knows or recognizes me even two years later.
Vacation days and paychecks will probably define how perfect your life as an expatriate will be. You will likely have to make decisions and eventually disappoint someone. Is it going to be your best friend's bridal shower or your dad's 50th birthday party? Are you going to spend your holidays back home with family or will you relax on a beach? To me, it's all about trying to find a balance. Seeing my friends and family back in Germany certainly is a priority, but I still need a proper Summer vacation. So I'll go see my family for Christmas and have a fabulous time in August on the beach with friends. Lastly, consider that this is a two-way road: friends and family can and should come visit you, too!
Old Habits Die Hard
Moving to another country is definitely a huge effort, but it doesn't stop with filing visa papers and buying a plane ticket. Are you going to try and adapt to the new culture or will you be living in a shared house with friends of friends from your home country? Are you going to continue to brag about how everything was way better back home? Will you meet locals or exclusively attend events for expatriates?
Getting accustomed to a new country takes time. So don't be too quick when making judgments. Avoid a culture shock by visiting the city before you move there. Do thorough research. But if getting out of your comfort zone still doesn't pay after a while, it's fine not to like the new country, city, or neighborhood. You can always move on!
A House Is Not a Home
Great - so you got used to a new culture, maybe even learned a new language, and made a group of friends. Yet, that feeling of "home" won't settle in? I've been there. Moving to five different countries in five years just didn't leave much time for me to make a place truly my new home.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the definition of a home is as simple as "the place where a person lives." However, I'd like to refer to Dionne Warwick, who famously sang in 1964 "A House Is Not a Home." While other definitions include terms like family when describing what "home" is, what about all the singles who are living a lifestyle that is becoming increasingly popular - especially in big cities?
One thing is for sure: the place I used to call home - where I grew up for 21 years - is not a home anymore. Whenever I return to that small village in Bavaria, even just for a couple of days, I feel more and more like I don't fit there anymore. I guess it wasn't moving away that was the most difficult. Instead, moving back will be the hardest move. Maybe that's exactly why I'm avoiding it, at least for now.
Don't Freak Out, but Hackers May Have Gotten Access to Your Email
You might want to change your password ASAP. Due to a massive hack, approximately 270 million email usernames and passwords have been exposed and left vulnerable to a shady, underground network of criminals in Russia. The majority of compromised accounts are from a popular Russian email service, Mail.ru, but the breech has also affected Gmail, Yahoo, and Microsoft credentials.
According to Reuters, the hack was uncovered when the experts at Hold Security found a Russian hacker openly boasting about it in an online forum. The hacker also disclosed that he was planning to sell all the account information he had gathered. In total, 24 million Gmail, 40 million Yahoo, and 33 million Microsoft accounts were exposed.
One security officer, Alex Holden, discussed the magnitude of the situation to Reuters. "This information is potent," he said. "It is floating around in the underground and this person has shown he's willing to give the data away to people who are nice to him." Holden also spoke about the bleak outlook for these passwords. "These credentials can be abused multiple times," he said.
Then it got really weird. Apparently when the hacker was approached by Hold Security, he said he would agree to hand over all the data so long as the firm just posted nice comments about him in popular hacker forums. So, problem solved, right? Well, it's recommended that you still change your password if you happen to have an account with one of the affected services . . . just in case.
lundi 9 mai 2016
15 Times Regina and Robin Hood Stole Our Hearts on Once Upon a Time
Once Upon a Time is full of complicated romances, but no relationship is as tortured as Regina and Robin Hood's. While they have certainly had their share of highs and lows, they always make up for it with their passionate kisses. Not only do they make one heck of a couple, but according to Tinkerbell, they are basically destined to be together. Even though their relationship has come to a bitter, bitter end, their romance will forever live on in our hearts. Keep scrolling for their best moments and then check out 18 times Sean Maguire shot you straight in the heart with his good looks.
Stormtroopers Dancing to Beyoncé's "Single Ladies" Is a Gift From the Internet
You never know what to expect from performers when you're watching talent shows, like stormtroopers competing on Britain's Got Talent and dancing to Beyoncé's "Single Ladies." The group appeared on the show in Star Wars gear and surprised everyone with choreography to songs like "Gangnam Style" and "Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)."
For those wondering who is in the suits, it appears that the group is made up of a group of guys from Liverpool between the ages of 17 and 24. Their stage name is Boogie Storm (very appropriate). The five-minute video already has more than 4 million views in just two days. Watch for yourself to see if the group made it to the next talent round. It's safe to say, we've definitely never seen stormtroopers move like this before!
Who Is Rhaegar Targaryen? Everything You Need to Know About Jon Snow's Maybe-Daddy on Game of Thrones
Even though we've gotten to meet a whole bunch of new characters on Game of Thrones this season, there's one name that keeps popping up who we'll likely never see in the flesh: Rhaegar Targaryen. The famed Targaryen prince might be long dead in both the books and the show, but there's a good chance his actions years ago will define the future of every character on Game of Thrones. Keep reading to see what's up with Rhaegar, but (as always) there are MINOR BOOK SPOILERS BELOW.
- He is the eldest son of the Mad King, Aerys II. Prince Rhaegar Targaryen is the son of King Aerys Targaryen and Queen Rhaella Targaryen, making him Daenerys and Viserys's older brother (though Dany was born after his death).
- He is married to a Dornish princess and has two children, who are later murdered by The Mountain. Rhaegar and Princess Elia Martell (Oberyn Martell's sister, FYI) of Dorne have a daughter, Rhaenys, and a son, Aegon. The children are killed, and then Ser Gregor Clegane rapes Elia before stabbing her to death with a sword. Makes sense why Oberyn wanted to kill him so bad, huh?
- He abducts Lyanna Stark, which ignites the deadly rebellion against the Targaryens. Despite a seemingly happy marriage to Princess Elia, Rhaegar abducts Ned's sister for undisclosed reasons. When the Starks order Rhaegar to release Lyanna, the Mad King has both Ned's father, Rickard, and oldest brother, Brandon, cruelly executed. This prompts Ned and Robert Baratheon (who is betrothed to Lyanna) to team up with several other clans to take down the Targaryens.
- He dies at the end of Robert Baratheon's hammer. Although Rhaegar manages to avoid the initial uprising while living in Dorne, he's eventually summoned to battle. During a fight known as the Battle of the Trident, Rhaegar goes up against Robert, who deals him a fatal blow with his warhammer.
- He has been mentioned in the show many times before. In the first episode of season one, Robert and Ned share an emotionally charged moment in the crypt where Lyanna is buried, where Robert reveals that "he kills [Rhaegar] every night" in his dreams. In season three, Jorah Mormont and Ser Barristan Selmy bicker over how honorable Rhaeger truly was in front of Daenerys, and Barristan brings him up again in season five when he shares some pleasant memories of Rhaegar's love of singing. Petyr Baelish also recounts the events surrounding Rhaegar's kidnapping of Lyanna to Sansa Stark in the same crypt where Robert and Ned were years earlier.
- He's rumored to be Jon Snow's father. By far the most significant point of Rhaegar's role in the current state of Westeros is his supposed parentage of the recently resurrected Jon Snow. There's an entire theory devoted to this, but basically the story goes that Rhaegar impregnated Lyanna at some point after he kidnapped her and locked her away in the Tower of Joy for safekeeping. Ned arrived to rescue his sister, but she sadly died in childbirth after begging Ned to raise the baby as his own. If this turns out to be true, it will not only mean Jon is a Targaryen, but it'll also feed into the myth of the "Prince That Was Promised."
There's not much else to know about Rhaegar at the moment, but we certainly haven't heard the last of him. Since it seems like the official reveal of Jon Snow's parents is coming up soon, stay tuned for more information!
After This Teacher's Cat Died, Her Students Gave Her the Best Gift Ever
When Texas teacher Tonya Andrews lost her 16-year-old cat last week, her students wanted to do something to cheer her up. According to ABC News, four teens in particular decided to surprise her with some gifts, including flowers and balloons. But perhaps the sweetest gift they surprised their teacher with was two brand-new kittens for her to take home and spoil. See the precious moment in the video the teens posted below, and find even more adorable animal videos here.
We surprised our teacher with kittens because her cat passed away yesterday💗 http://pic.twitter.com/ozzwCJTVmj
- Rachel Hanhart (@ace040913) May 6, 2016
Lisa Vanderpump Just Bought Her Daughter the Most Outrageous 30th Birthday Present Ever
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star and restaurateur Lisa Vanderpump loves to spoil her daughter Pandora, as we saw on the Bravo reality show during Pandora's luxurious wedding preparations. Now, Pandora is celebrating her 30th birthday, and Lisa has reportedly given her the ultimate gift: a Beverly Hills mansion of her very own.
Lisa surprised Pandora and her husband, Jason Sabo, by telling them that they were attending a dinner party at the recently redesigned $1.85-million, four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom home - but when they arrived, there was a giant pink bow on the door, and they learned it was really a birthday present. The inside of the home was even fully furnished to Pandora and Jason's taste.
While Lisa keeps herself busy tending to Giggy and a menagerie of pets, she's made no secret about her desire for a grandchild to care for, so maybe this new house is a hint that there are little ones on the horizon. With its quiet cul-de-sac location, spacious 2,676-square-foot layout, and big yard complete with a pool and spa, it's perfect for a family. Plus, it's close to grandma Lisa and grandpa Ken's over-the-top $10 million mansion, Villa Rosa. Tour the house in the video below, and keep clicking through to see all the beautiful pictures of the space.
50 Work-Appropriate Outfits to Reach For When It's Hot AF
When the temperatures start soaring, how do you still make it through your morning commute and a long workday without melting into a hot, sweaty mess? It's the never-ending dilemma! So we turned to some of our favorite Latina fashion bloggers for some much-needed help.
Their Instagrams were full of light outfit ideas that are still professional enough to sport at your nine-to-five. Check out these 50 outfit ideas for a little inspiration on how to look stylish and stay cool in the sweltering heat this Summer.
Looking for more outfits to try this season? Here are 100 more ideas, plus 20 ways to style a simple white tank top and a few swimsuits you'll want to live in this Summer.
An Ode to Oscar Isaac, the Leading Man Who Never Fails to Set Our Hearts (and Loins) Ablaze
Short of hell or high water, there is virtually nothing on earth that can keep us from seeing an Oscar Isaac movie, and with good reason. Along with Isaac being crowned the internet's new boyfriend, the scruffy, sexy leading man has a knack for serving up A+ performances. Whether he's flying high in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, softly strumming a guitar with Justin Timberlake in Inside Llewyn Davis, or dancing his way into our hearts in Ex-Machina, there's a good chance you'll find us swooning in his general direction. Keep reading to see all of his hottest moments on screen, and check out where you'll be able to watch him next.
16 Brilliant Hacks That'll Get You the Best Brownies of Your Life
If you feel as though every time you make brownies, they're not quite perfect (too dry or not flavorful enough), allow these hacks to step into your kitchen. No matter your preference (crispy edges? Gooey center?), there's a tip that guarantees perfectly baked brownies every time, and you just might end up swapping your go-to recipe for one of these new ones. Keep reading to learn 16 ways to make the best brownies you've ever had.
7 Ways to Travel Well With Others
Traveling with friends can be amazing, as long as you do a few important things! Writer, photographer, and world traveler Wendy E. Simmons offers some great tips for your next trip.
Traveling with a friend may seem like a no-brainer when it comes to bright ideas, but even your best friend can get on your last nerve by the end of your first day if you have conflicting travel styles and preferences.
But it doesn't have to be so. When you travel with a friend, you are essentially engaging in a vacation relationship, and like all relationships, communication, consideration, and compromise are key to its success.
When I travel (and if I'm being honest, in life), I like to do what I want, when I want, how I want, which does not make me a particularly awesome travel companion, by nature. But, if I follow my own most excellent advice, I am not at all bad. In fact, I'm downright fun. Thus I share my best advice with you:
1. Discuss . . . before you go.
What premarital counseling is to marriage (e.g. ensuring you both want children, or you both want to live in a log cabin in Alaska before you say, "I do"), a frank, honest discussion about how to travel together is to your trip. Before you pack your bags, make sure you discuss your expectations, how you like to travel, how you envision your daily routine, what you want to accomplish, what is and isn't acceptable to you, what you're willing to compromise on, and so forth. It may sound pedantic, but differences in travel styles and priorities are what create the misunderstandings, disagreements, and resentment that can quickly ruin your trip, and your friendship.
2. Money money money.
Before you start planning anything, openly discuss budgets – how much, and on what, are you willing and/or able to spend? Establishing and agreeing to monetary parameters in advance can be a trip saver. After all, one traveler's bargain may be another's bank breaker.
3. Here kitty kitty.
I invited 11 of my friends and family to spend a week with me in a villa I rented in Positano. The prospect of trying to split bills 12 ways (especially after a few cocktails) was untenable, so instead I instituted a "kitty" system and asked everyone to make an equal-cash contribution to fund agreed-upon group activities and meals. To keep things really fair, if one of us consistently drank more, or ordered more expensive items, he or she simply contributed a little extra to the kitty. We enlisted our most mathematically inclined friend, Kelly, who we quickly nicknamed Kitty Kelly, to be in charge, and she alone paid bills and kept tabs on the kitty. If the kitty ran low, we all contributed an equal amount of cash again. Whether you're traveling with one friend or ten, a call for the kitty means less stress and no time wasted hassling over who owes money to whom, or who paid for what.
4. Compromise on compromising.
Whoever said, "When we compromise, everyone wins" was an idiot. When traveling, compromising means no one gets to do exactly what he or she really wants, unless . . . you take turns compromising. In other words, I may not have any interest in going to that museum, but my traveling companion may not want to go on that boat ride through the swamp either. So, I'll go to the museum with zero complaint, a completely open mind, and the intention to enjoy myself, in exchange for which my travel companion will do the same on Das Boat. Now we both get exactly what we want, and nine times out of 10, you end up enjoying an experience you would likely have never tried otherwise. So much better than abandoning both first choices for a second or third choice you can both agree on.
5. Go your own way (you can go your own way).
On the other hand, splitting up for a few hours or days to tackle activities that are important to you, but not to your traveling companion, is perfectly okay. You get to have your cake and eat too – the benefit of traveling with a friend, but the freedom to explore certain aspects of the itinerary independently. Besides, a little alone time is the perfect remedy for too much together time.
6. Ready, set, go . . . get ready first.
Whoever takes longer to get ready has to start getting ready first. That's the rule, unless the person who gets ready faster doesn't mind being ready and then having to wait for the person who takes longer. Who has to wake up first to shower so you aren't late? The one who takes longer to get ready. Who has to leave the beach first to make sure you make your reservation? The one who takes longer to get ready. Follow this formula and peace will reign.
7. Remember, it's temporary.
You've both spent valuable time, and most likely, limited disposable income, to be wherever you are, and all either of you want is to be happy and have fun. You aren't moving in together forever. You're on holiday for a few weeks, or months (worst case), so suck it up. If she wants to sleep in, but you want to get up and going early, who cares? You get up and going and let her sleep in and agree to meet someplace in a few hours. She wants the lights off early? Bring an eBook with back lighting. Surely you can survive a week this way? If he doesn't stop chewing his food so loudly you're going to lose it? Knock it off. Have a piña colada, be grateful you have a friend who is willing to travel with you, and enjoy your vacation.
If Snapchat and Instagram Had a Baby, It Would Be This App
Start making space on your phone. There's a new app called Epic, which combines Instagram's and Snapchat's best features. We bet you'll start using it every day. And the app icon is a unicorn!
To use it, first you need to sign up. Then, you'll recognize a familiar screen that looks like Snapchat's. Take a photo or video, put emoji stickers or filters on it, and hit "Save Moment." That's when you'll really see how different it is. You can either save it to your Story, which disappears after 24 hours, or create a another Story that will last for a set amount of time you choose - including forever. Just like Snapchat's stories, you can add more photos and videos to a Story you've made.
The app idea came about when POPSUGAR's CEO, Brian Sugar, was playing around with Snapchat's Story feature. For him, there were some key features missing. He wanted a new app that would take Snapchat's storytelling and combine it with the social features of Instagram and Pinterest's organization. That's exactly what you get when you peruse the app. Plus, it's a way to finally keep some of your most treasured moments - like those of concerts or trips - saved and viewable over and over again. "It's the new camcorder," said Sugar. Except this time, you will get to see your memories, sans your dad forgetting to set it up and show it off.
As for the app itself, your profile looks like Instagram's and people can view all the stories you've posted. Friends and family can "like," comment, repost, and tag people in comments. You can double tap on a photo or video in a Story and see a feed of what the Story includes. The best part is being able to mention people in a Moment; just write their handle with the @ sign and they'll get a notification letting them know about it. During beta testing, plenty of people were addicted to it in the POPSUGAR offices. Like the sound of that? You can download Epic right now for iOS. An example of what your feed looks like is below.
If you're looking for another awesome way to connect with friends, this is it!
Selena Gomez on Dating: "I Don't Trust Anybody"
Days after the kickoff of her highly anticipated Revival Tour, Selena Gomez's stunning June 2016 Marie Claire cover has been revealed. The "Hands to Myself" singer, who has been wearing all kinds of gorgeous ensembles lately, is glowing in the glossy photos in barely there makeup and a striped dress, featuring - game-changer alert! - matching sultry fingerless gloves. And judging by Marie Claire's teaser video, her outfits only get hotter once you flip the pages of the magazine.
Beyond her enviable fashion choices, Selena opened up about real-life struggles, including dating. Read on for a sneak peek at what she had to say and more pictures before the issue hits stands on May 17, and then relive her Cinderella moment at the 2016 Met Gala.
- On dealing with agents and managers: "Authenticity is my life. They make great choices, but I make the decisions."
- On dating: "I've been dating. I've been having the best time. But I don't trust anybody, so dating can only be fun if I know I'm going to have fun."
- On her personal life: "I would try to promote something that I loved, and the entire interview would be about my personal life. I would leave a room feeling defeated, feeling embarrassed, but I would always make sure to put that smile on my face because I wasn't going to let them get to me."
The Tron Roller Coaster at Shanghai Disney Is Everything We Imagined and More
Ever since we found out the official launch date for Shanghai Disney Resort (it's June 16), we've been dreaming about the new rides at the park. Specifically, the Tron-inspired roller coaster. Thanks to a guest who was at the soft opening of Shanghai Disney this past weekend, our very first glimpse of this anticipated ride was everything we dreamed of (and more). The Tron Lightcycle Power Run roller coaster takes passengers through a dark, twisting maze with brief moments of outside travel. The ride design is reminiscent of the animated scenes you see in Tron, proving that this roller coaster will completely transport you into a different world. Or, at least, that's how it feels.
Miranda Kerr and Evan Spiegel Just Bought This $12M Love Nest
Miranda Kerr and her Snapchat creator beau, Evan Spiegel, just dropped a pretty penny on a new home. The couple dished out $12 million on a gated lovers' pad in Brentwood, CA, that boasts nearly 7,100 square feet. Legendary architect Gerard Colcord designed the lavish seven-bedroom home, which was once owned by Harrison Ford.
The spacious abode has a traditional yet modern vibe and is perfect for the pair. The property is complete with an outdoor deck that oversees a thriving garden space, a private pool, cozy fireplaces, and an outdoor grilling area. The modern home has the ultimate family feel, but it is also spacious enough for hosting the most elaborate of events - and there's plenty of space for just staying in. At the top of the private driveway is a two-story guest house for when the pair has visitors. Hey, maybe we can even move into a room of our own? Scroll through to see every shot of the gorgeous space.
Skip This, Sip That: Navigating Juices on the Go
With health food and juicing being trendier than ever (yay!), it's now easier than ever to find cold-pressed, organic, and natural juice products on the shelves of places like Target, Costco, Starbucks, and even Walmart.
But buyer, be wary: what's in your juice? Before you grab green, read the label. Just because it looks healthy doesn't mean it is healthy. Granted, there's no harm in putting fruits and vegetables in your body - we're big advocates of that. But if you're monitoring your sugar intake, you may want to take a closer look at nutrition information before cracking open a to-go bottle of greens.
A big factor to look out for? Apple juice. Many prepackaged green juices use it as a base, and it's super high in sugar. Some of these green drinks will have as much (if not significantly more) sugar as a can of Coke. Seriously. While fruit juice is definitely better than high fructose corn syrup, it's still important to educate yourself and be mindful of what you're consuming. Here's a quick guide to four staple brands you can find in most store shelves: Naked, Suja, Odwalla, and Evolution Fresh.
11 Love Tattoos in Spanish You're Going to Want to Get
The great thing about love is that it comes in all shapes, sizes, and tattoo designs. But because we know you're looking for ink that'll be special and unique to you, we scoured Instagram to put together a list of photos featuring some of the most inspiring and empowering tattoos on love you'll ever see. The best part: they all nicely combine your connection to the Spanish language with your adoration for your significant other!
Skip This, Sip That: Navigating Juices on the Go
With health food and juicing being trendier than ever (yay!), it's now easier than ever to find cold-pressed, organic, and natural juice products on the shelves of places like Target, Costco, Starbucks, and even Walmart.
But buyer, be wary: what's in your juice? Before you grab green, read the label. Just because it looks healthy doesn't mean it is healthy. Granted, there's no harm in putting fruits and vegetables in your body - we're big advocates of that. But if you're monitoring your sugar intake, you may want to take a closer look at nutrition information before cracking open a to-go bottle of greens.
A big factor to look out for? Apple juice. Many prepackaged green juices use it as a base, and it's super high in sugar. Some of these green drinks will have as much (if not significantly more) sugar as a can of Coke. Seriously. While fruit juice is definitely better than high fructose corn syrup, it's still important to educate yourself and be mindful of what you're consuming. Here's a quick guide to four staple brands you can find in most store shelves: Naked, Suja, Odwalla, and Evolution Fresh.
Catch a Recruiter's Eye With These 7 Cover Letter Tips
Although your résumé is definitely important, the cover letter can also be a make-or-break factor. Before you even get an interview, your application will have to impress the recruiter or hiring manager, so perfecting your cover letter is key to earning a face-to-face meet. Here are some tips for a perfect cover letter that will catch any recruiter's eye:
1. Tweak your tone for every company.
Don't send generic cover letters that can be used for any job application. You want to make sure that the tone of your letter fits the type of firm you're applying to. Is the company looking for someone with sass or someone more serious? Figure that out on your own, and tailor your letter to what suits the company.
2. Make a case.
You won't be able to get to this on your résumé, so be sure to make the case for why you're the right person for the job and why you want to work for the company on your cover letter. A good way to sell yourself is to connect your experiences with the job description. List your skills and experiences that match the type of candidate they are looking to hire.
3. Be different.
Don't repeat everything on your résumé in your cover letter. The letter is your chance to shine and show a bit of your personality. Repeating what's already been said just takes up valuable space.
4. Don't bring up your weaknesses.
If no one is asking you what your biggest failings are, then don't be so eager to volunteer that information. The cover letter is not the time to reflect on self-improvement; save that for the weakness question you may be asked during the interview.
5. Focus on the company, not yourself.
Try your best to show that you care about the company and how you want to help it grow. Try to avoid using too much "I," and instead show how you can be a helpful addition to the company, not in general.
6. Stick to the right length.
Limit yourself to a page, and try to stick to four paragraphs. The first should comprise an introduction, the position you'd like to apply for, and a sentence briefly summarizing why you'd like the job and why you're a perfect fit. The next two paragraphs should go on to mention applicable skills and specific achievements that further showcase how qualified you are for the job. You can even use some of the space to explain your suitability if it needs more details, such as the fact that you'd move for the job or why you're changing careers. The last paragraph should be a final, brief emphasis on why you're excited for the position and a place for you to thank the readers for their time and consideration. You can also make a polite mention of letting them know you'll be in touch.
7. Keep it clean.
Be sure to repeatedly edit your cover letter, and always have at least one other pair of eyes look it over. Check for grammar mistakes, run-on sentences, and spelling errors. Make sure everything is consistent. If you say "I am" in the first sentence, then don't suddenly switch to "I'm" in the next.
To round out your application package, avoid making these common résumé mistakes, as well.
You Won't Ever Want to Try Something You See on the Internet Again After Watching This Video
There are plenty of internet challenges that are pretty harmless. But every now and then, one dare pops up that no one should try because it's simply too dangerous. One young girl learned that lesson the hard way after trying the latest trend and getting a chunk of hair pulled out from her head.
The trend, called the corn drill challenge, originated when a vlogger called Eater Yang ate an entire corn cob in 10 seconds by putting it on a power drill. Though the video is fun to watch, it's clearly something no one should attempt - except this girl from China did. As she attempted the challenge, some strands of her hair got caught in the drill and promptly ripped from her scalp. The result? A large bald patch on her head. In a video from LiveLeaks, the girl is seen receiving treatment, and the website reports that the doctor "says [her] hair will grow like normal." Watch the two videos below.
私は今なにをみた… http://pic.twitter.com/hFTZyPTAZ6
- く り す け 。 (@_kryzt) May 7, 2016
The lesson to take away here? Don't try any challenge that looks even remotely dangerous. You could end up like this poor girl or worse.
Once Upon a Time Kills Off a Fan Favorite, and It's Heartbreaking For Many Reasons
Let me start off by saying that I am a huge fan of Once Upon a Time and the writers behind the show. They constantly keep me on my toes with each new season - even when I don't like a development. The show's most recent episode, "Last Rites," left me with a lot of feelings that I need to hash out. Warning: major spoilers ahead!
Not only is the episode's plot packed with emotion, but it also features not one, not two, but three deaths. While killing off Hades and King Arthur successfully wraps up the Hercules and Camelot arc from season five, there is one death in particular that left fans, or Hoodies as they're popularly known as, completely devastated - everyone's favorite bandit, Robin Hood.
First, I should give a little background as to why this death was particularly heartbreaking from the get-go. While it has been widely speculated that this season would include a major death, the writers have kept mum about who it would be. However, just a few days before the episode aired, numerous photos from set began to pop up on social media, hinting that it might be Robin Hood's funeral. Though the writers and Sean Maguire, the actor behind Robin Hood, tried their best to keep viewers guessing, fans created the hashtag #SaveRobin in an attempt to keep his character alive.
Even though Robin Hood certainly isn't the first character to get killed off on the show, his exit might be the saddest yet. This season we learned that when characters die, they are actually sent to the Underworld to complete their unfinished business. While other characters like Neal, who also had an emotional death, were able to move on, Robin Hood isn't as fortunate. Hades explains that death by the Olympian crystal means no afterlife at all. After all the heroism his character has shown over the past few seasons, it's pretty bleak that he gets no happy ending.
On the topic of happy endings, I can't help but point out how heartbreaking this death is for Regina. Not only does Robin sacrifice himself to protect her, but just moments before his untimely death, he basically calls her "his future." As a show based on hope, it's understandably very frustrating that the one character who has been adamant on finding her happily ever after constantly experiences loss. Her first love, Daniel? Dead. Her father? Dead. Her mother? Dead. And now, her true love gone forever. As if Regina's sad ending wasn't bad enough, the episode makes the whole ordeal even more bittersweet by reuniting another fan favorite couple, Captain Hook and Emma Swan.
Don't get me wrong, I love Captain Swan just as much as the next person, but I can't help but think how unfair it is that Hook gets a second chance while Robin Hood gets no closure at all - and if the recent promo for the season finale is any indication, it seems like Regina is doomed to a life with no happy endings as the Evil Queen.
RIP, Robin Hood. You will definitely be missed.
This Might Just Be Camila Alves's Sexiest Red Carpet Look Yet
Camila Alves stopped by Goldie Hawn's annual Goldie's Love In For Kids event in Beverly Hills last Friday, wearing one of her sexiest looks ever. The fashionable Brazilian beauty owned the red carpet in a white midi dress with both a subtle slit and a plunging neckline. She accessorized with a pair of gold pumps and star-shaped stud earrings, topping the whole look off with a Spring-ready fuchsia lip, bold brows, and a chic french braid. But let's be real: we were only looking at one thing! Keep reading to see more pictures of Camila's revealing ensemble, and then admire her sweetest moments with her family.
These Photos Capture a Beautiful, Rare Cosmic Moment Between Mercury and the Sun
And the #MercuryTransit has begun! #SDO caught this image of ingress in extreme ultraviolet light about 20 min ago! http://pic.twitter.com/0o8ks9btU3
- NASASunEarth (@NASASunEarth) May 9, 2016
Mercury passed in front of the sun today, and if you're like us, you probably missed this rare event on your way to work. The cosmic occurrence only happens a dozen times per century and began early in the morning on May 9, at 7:12 a.m., lasting for seven and a half hours. Anyone could have seen Mercury's transit if they had a pair of high-powered binoculars or a backyard telescope.
If you didn't have any of these options available to you, that's completely OK. NASA's Facebook page gave a recap of the incredible event and even took to Twitter to share some awesome images of Mercury trekking in front of the sun. According to NASA, the planet goes around the sun every 88 days, but rarely do all three bodies (Mercury, the sun, and Earth) align. Usually, Mercury darts above or below our line of sight to the sun, so the fact we can see it today is pretty incredible. And the next Mercury transit isn't until 2019!
Until then, see what you've missed below, and check out other stunning snapshots from cosmic events.
Latest views of today's #MercuryTransit show the planet passing in front of the sun from @NASASunEarth:https://t.co/1yXs5ykQPh
- NASA (@NASA) May 9, 2016
.@NASA's #MercuryTransit special is live now! Head over to https://t.co/hUlTL0odUN to watch & ask questions http://pic.twitter.com/4uGfANRtA3
- NASASunEarth (@NASASunEarth) May 9, 2016
Introducing the Easy Wedding Makeup Tutorial You've Been Looking For
The following post was originally featured on By Lynny and written by Lynnette Hernandez, who is part of POPSUGAR Select Latina.
Wedding season has begun so I wanted a glam wedding makeup tutorial to give brides, or wedding guests, some makeup ideas.
I used the Temptu airpod foundation for a flawless, airbrushed, finish that is also superlong lasting. On the day of my wedding the makeup artist used airbrush makeup and I loved the finished look. It was not only perfect for photography, but my look stayed put throughout the entire night. Needless to say, I really recommend doing airbrushed makeup for your big day. As for the eyes, I did a classic black and white with a bit of sparkle that is perfect for a cocktail or black tie wedding!
Watch the video above to see the tutorial for this look!
Products Used:
Temptu Airbrush
Temptu Airbrush Foundation
Nars Creamy Concealer
Kat Von D Shade + Light Palette
MAC Eye Shadow in White Frost and Black Tied
NYX Jumbo Pencil
Lancome Liqui Pencil
Inglot Gel Liner
Lancome Blush in Rose Paradise
Benefit High Beam
Koko Lashes in Goddess
Pink's Alice in Wonderland-Inspired "Just Like Fire" Video Features Her Whole Family
Pink is one of the music industry's most powerful performers (literally, have you seen her do acrobatics?) and her new video might be her best yet. It's for "Just Like Fire," from the Alice Through the Looking Glass soundtrack, and never has a title been more spot-on. This music video, featuring her daughter, Willow, and husband, Carey Hart, is fire. Not only does Pink perform some aerial stunts, she walks through a mirror and into Alice's world. The whole video is great, but you have to watch until the end to see the punchline.
12 Creative Smoothies to Get You Out of Your Rut
- Smoothie recipes you actually haven't tried before - HuffPost Taste
- A sweet variation on french toast you need to try - Martha Stewart
- Toss the takeout menu and make these restaurant-inspired dishes instead - The Kitchn
- A taste of childhood without the guilt: healthy cereal milk doughnuts - Thrive Market
- Spice up your breakfast with this chorizo con huevos recipe - POPSUGAR Latina
Feeling Down at Work? This 38-Track Playlist Will Pick You Back Up
When your job falls into a flatline lull and you feel like you're never going to make it to Friday, sometimes music is the best remedy. Whether you've got a giant project to finish, a presentation to give, or a report to create, the 38 tracks below will fuel your motivation. So plug in your headphones and get in the (work) zone!
- "Unstoppable," Sia
- "Conquer the World," Jessie J, Brandy
- "Keep Your Head Up," Andy Grammer
- "You Can Do It," No Doubt
- "Girl on Fire," Alicia Keys
- "Powerful," Major Lazer, Ellie Goulding
- "Up&Up," Coldplay
- "Invincible," Kelly Clarkson
- "Independent Women, Pt. 1," Destiny's Child
- "DARE," Gorillaz, Shaun Ryder
- "Work B**ch," Britney Spears
- "On Top of the World," Imagine Dragons
- "Confident," Demi Lovato
- "Today's the Day," P!nk
- "Do It Well," Jennifer Lopez
- "Lose Yourself," Eminem
- "Can't Stop," Red Hot Chili Peppers
- "Brave," Sara Bareilles
- "#thatPOWER," will.i.am, Justin Bieber
- "I Will Never Let You Down," Rita Ora
- "On My Own," Miley Cyrus
- "Die Trying," CeeLo Green
- "Roar," Katy Perry
- "Right Now," Rihanna, David Guetta
- "Applause," Lady Gaga
- "Maximum Effort," Junkie XL
- "Green Light," Beyoncé
- "Takin' Over the World," The Pussycat Dolls
- "Like a Champion," Selena Gomez
- "Stronger," Britney Spears
- "Killin' It," Cher Lloyd
- "Now or Never," Three Days Grace
- "What You Waiting For?" Gwen Stefani
- "Diamonds," Rihanna
- "One Step at a Time," Jordin Sparks
- "Centuries," Fall Out Boy
- "Focus," Ariana Grande
- "Can't Wait For the Weekend," Love and Theft
Don't forget: you'll need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists!
19 Facts About Disney's Very Own Private Island
Disney Cruise Line ships are so magical, it can sometimes be hard to imagine wanting to get off of one at all. But one look at Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas, and you'll be booking it off the boat faster than you can say "Mickey Mouse." Castaway Cay is a port that Disney Cruise Line ships sailing the Caribbean and the Bahamas dock at for a day during the trip, and it is a destination that simply can't be missed. The island offers both off- and on-land excursions all day, white sand and crystal-clear water, fun for families, and exclusive areas for adults. If you are planning your next Disney Cruise, then make sure you know these Castaway Cay facts before sailing away. Add this to your Disney bucket list!
Shanghai Disney Just Released New Photos of the Park That's Opening in June!
Disney is opening a theme park in Shanghai - the first mainland park in China EVER - and it has an opening date! Pack your bags: the park opens June 16. Shanghai Disneyland just released new photos to celebrate the countdown (100 days and counting!) until the opening.
Robert Iger, Disney's CEO and chairman, revealed the company's plans for the newest park as well as the model for the 1.5-square-mile resort last year, and it is seriously jaw dropping. Shanghai Disney Resort will include six "lands" with a storytelling theme and will feature many of the familiar iconic attractions and characters, but with an added emphasis on Chinese culture and original entertainment. Iger called Shanghai Disney his "passion project," saying that it was a true labor of love bringing it to life.
"We are taking everything we've learned from our six decades of exceeding expectations, along with our relentless innovation and famous creativity, to create a truly magical place that is both authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese. We believe we've achieved the perfect blend, guaranteed to delight all who visit."
Everything looks and sounds completely magical, but huge fans of Disney princesses got the most exciting news of all: the Enchanted Castle will be the "largest, tallest, and grandest" castle out of all Disney theme parks. The castle will be an "entertainment venue within itself," with an interactive attraction in its upper floors and even a water ride traveling below it. Check out the amazing images of what the resort will look like!
Freshen Your Bathroom With This Simple Life Hack
Image Source: Jill Lynn Photography
This super simple life hack is all over Pinterest, but does it really deliver? Of course, we had to try it out ourselves. The tip suggests dripping a few drops of your favorite essential oil directly on the inside of a toilet paper tube, which then beautifully scents your bathroom. It's a genius idea, but does the smell really linger?
The Test
We picked a strong scent for this test, reaching for wintergreen so the smell wouldn't be missed. Using vanilla, rosemary, vetiver, or lavender would be good choices for a fresh commode. We dripped five drops on the inside of the tube and popped it in place. It was just enough to lightly scent the room without being overpowering.
The Next Day
After several spins of the toilet paper roll and a full 24 hours, the bathroom was still smelling fresh. And the scent continued down to the final few sheets. The smell is slight, though, so for really stinky situations, a spray may be needed.
The Bottom Line
This is a quick and simple way to freshen your bathroom, but be careful when dripping on the essential oil. Some can irritate skin, and with this bathroom essential being used in a delicate manner, any essential oil that gets on the toilet paper may mean you have to ditch the roll. And it might be a good idea to skip using the last few sheets as the essential oil may have seeped through the cardboard. Otherwise, this is a great tip!
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sarah Lipoff
Queen Letizia of Spain Isn't Afraid to Wear a Good Outfit More Than Once - or Twice
When it comes to fashion, no one can call Queen Letizia of Spain wasteful. The royal wears and rewears the same pieces with total confidence - sometimes in the same month - getting photographed at official events and meetings with dignitaries in recycled outfits like it's no big deal.
Whether it's a classic white dress with black leather trimming, a trendy statement jacket, or even a white shirt and A-line skirt combo, the queen knows what styles work for her, reaching for the same outfit from head to toe often. We don't blame her! The classic items in her closet could really carry her through her entire reign. Keep scrolling to see just 22 of the many outfits the Queen has grown fond of, then check out her style evolution through the years.
Why the Tower of Joy Is So Important to Game of Thrones
This week's Game of Thrones episode takes us to a legendary place within the mythical world: the Tower of Joy. Fans of the book are very familiar with the location, as it's the birthplace of the R + L = J theory - literally. Before the next episode, let's go over what exactly happens at the Tower of Joy and how the show may venture from George R. R. Martin's book series.
What We've Seen
The latest episode shows young Ned Stark riding up to the Tower of Joy with his crew, looking for a fight. He and Howland Reed take down Authur Dayne (aka Sword of the Morning) by stabbing him in the back, which is a pretty shocking revelation for Bran, who has always heard tales about how his father had honorably defeated Dayne. Ned then hears screams coming from the tower, and he rushes up the stairs. Bran calls out, and Ned pauses, as if he's heard his future son, before continuing up into the Tower.
What Happens in the Tower
Because we haven't gotten there yet on the show, we can't say for sure what will happen when Ned gets inside the Tower of Joy. In the books, Ned finds his sister inside, and it's where she dies. Her final words to him are, "Promise me, Ned." As the theory goes, Lyanna gives birth to a child before her death and Ned takes him in and raises Jon Snow as his own (bastard) son. It would be huge if Game of Thrones finally confirmed Jon's parentage, but I wouldn't put it past the writers to dangle an enormous plotline in front of us, then pull it away.
Why the Show May Veer From the Books
Now that the show is moving beyond the story in the books, giving fans of the A Song of Ice and Fire series serious anxiety, things are happening that don't happen in the books. The whole deal with Bran going back and viewing the events at the Tower of Joy? That's not a thing in the books, which means Bran calling out to his father and Ned turning around is definitely not a thing. Does the moment mean that Bran's abilities don't stop with being able to view the past? Can he also communicate with people in the past, possibly altering major events? Here's what actor Isaac Hempstead-Wright told The Hollywood Reporter about his understanding:
"It's enough of a utility to just be able to look back in time and allow that to inform your decisions in the future, but the fact that you might be able to change time? It's massive. It's unprecedented. For Bran, it presents a humongous kind of challenge, because we all know from Doctor Who that if you start messing with time, things go wrong. I think the temptation now is definitely there. Who's to say Bran couldn't go back in time and stop himself from getting pushed out of that window? It opens up a whole different world of possibilities for Bran, and a whole new set of challenges he's going to have to face."
So now not only will we possibly get to see what happens in the Tower of Joy, but we also have to worry about Bran Stark going all Marty McFly on us.
A Definitive Answer to Whether You Can "Make Up" Sleep
We've said it before, and we'll say it again: sleep is not an option. It shouldn't be something you pick and choose, like whether to get extra toppings on a pizza - sleep is the bread itself beneath the cheese and sauce. It's the nuts and bolts that hold us together and help us function as working members of society. One Quora user asked whether it's possible for him or her to catch up on poor sleep over the weekend. Wellness guru Arianna Huffington took the liberty of responding, and you might be able to guess what her unequivocal answer was:
No, unless you have a genetic mutation that allows you to function on less than the recommended amount of sleep. You either have the mutation or you don't, so it's not something you can develop over time or something you magically acquire because of your dedication to your job.
There is a universal, scientific consensus that seven to eight hours of sleep is necessary for optimal health. Lack of sleep over time can lead to an irreversible loss of brain cells, debunking the myth that sleep debt can be made up.
While chronic poor sleep can have long-lasting effects on our health, naps can help mitigate some of those effects, at least in the short-term. According to a study by the Sorbonne University in Paris, short naps were found to lower stress and boost the immune system. "Our data suggests a 30-minute nap can reverse the hormonal impact of a night of poor sleep," said one study coauthor, Brice Faraut. "This is the first study that found napping could restore biomarkers of neuroendocrine and immune health to normal levels." Short of time travel, a next-day nap may be the closest we can get to a second chance at a good night's sleep.
User Robert Locke, who has studied and written about sleep disorders, backs up Arianna's sentiments. In the thread, he lists all the negative consequences a lack of sleep can have on your health, including mood swings, a weakened immune system, poor attention span and focus, and increased food cravings. User Mithiran Nambiar confirms this in a comical metaphor: "Of course not . . . it's like skipping a meal or two and then devouring everything that you missed in the next meal. You will be hungry like hell but you can't definitely consume everything that you see! Sleep is just like that."
There you have it, folks. You can't technically make up sleep. If you have trouble getting those zzz's, check out our tips for sleeping better. And while you're at it, why not take the seven-night sleeping challenge? Happy resting!
Neosporin Has Nothing on This DIY Antibacterial Cream
Soothe cuts with this all-natural antibacterial cream that also heals ouchies fast. Made with ingredients that work together in such a helpful way, this balm also calms diaper rash, itchy dry-skin patches, and athlete's foot outbreaks without any chemicals or additives you can't pronounce.
What You'll Need:
- 4 tablespoons beeswax
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- Small metal bowl
- Small saucepan
- Kitchen hand towel
- 15 drops tea tree oil
- 10 drops lavender oil
- 1 tablespoon witch hazel
- Hand mixer
- Sealable glass container
Directions:
- Melt the beeswax and coconut oil together by placing a small heatproof bowl over a similar-sized saucepan filled halfway with water, creating a homemade double boiler, or heat in short bursts in a microwave. Beeswax helps hold the cream together, and coconut oil soothes skin and promotes healing with its natural antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.
- Once the beeswax and coconut oil have melted together, carefully remove from heat, and place on a flat surface on top of a folded kitchen towel. Slowly add the tea tree and lavender essential oils. Both are antibacterial and antifungal with the extra bonus of lavender's analgesic abilities, which helps with pain. If you're planning on using the antibacterial cream on kiddies, leave out the essential oils, which may irritate delicate skin. The coconut oil has antifungal properties on its own and is safe for children.
- Now slowly add the witch hazel to the mixture, and give it a quick whirl with your hand blender. Witch hazel is a natural astringent, which helps clean wounds and also calms bruising and swelling.
- To really incorporate the ingredients and create the smooth, jellylike consistency, blend on high for a few seconds. You'll see the cream come together within half a minute.
- Spoon the cooled cream into a sealable glass container, and it's ready to use. It should go on smooth, and you should expect a more waxy and balm-like texture. To avoid contaminating the cream, try not to touch it directly with your hands, using a cotton swab or clean tissue to apply to boo-boos. This keeps any stray bacteria that might be on your hands out of your helpful cream.
Makes six ounces of antibacterial cream that is meant to be used topically. Store in a cool spot, and this cream is safe to use.
Thalia Just Gave Us All the Chills With This Performance of "Vuélveme a Querer"
Thalia performed her emotional song "Vuélveme a Querer" live on Nuestra Belleza Latina, and the Mexican-born singer - whose new album, Latina, dropped on May 6 - totally blew us away.
Standing on a pedestal wearing a drapey gold gown to match the bright lights behind her, Thalia sang to our souls as the crowd beneath her swayed back and forth. Though it was a far cry from her sexy, upbeat performances of "Desde Esa Noche," this slowed-down appearance seriously highlighted Thalia's versatility as an artist. Press play above over and over again. Once you've gotten your fill, check out Thalia's jaw-dropping Met Gala ensemble.
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