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.
lundi 17 octobre 2016
Don't Wait Another Second Before Watching Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard's Homemade Music Video
If you didn't already think Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard are one of the cutest couples in Hollywood, then you will now. Earlier this year, a video surfaced of the two dancing and singing to Toto's "Africa" during a previous trip to Africa, and we just can't get enough. While it's unclear exactly when the vacation took place, it was before they welcomed their daughters, Lincoln, 3, and Delta, 1. In the caption, they said that the sole objective of the hilarious video was to "rage hard and honor Toto properly." Since the two celebrate their 3-year wedding anniversary this week, we can't think of a better way to celebrate than by rewatching their epic music video.
Why This Little Boy's Luke Skywalker Costume Is Unlike Any You've Seen Before
While many Star Wars fans are either looking to The Force Awakens or the highly anticipated Rogue One for Halloween costume inspiration, one young fan is going with a classic option.
On YouTube, Clint Case shared his son's Luke Skywalker costume that is a pretty perfect replication of Luke sitting atop a tauntaun, the lizard creatures introduced in The Empire Strikes Back.
The proud dad - and likely maker of the DIY costume - initially shared the video on Facebook. The accompanying caption read, "In tough times like these, all the world needs is a boy and his tauntaun." After receiving many shares and comments, Clint then uploaded the video to YouTube, where it's gone viral. It now has over 22,000 views, 500 "likes," and 56 comments, and counting!
Watch the adorable video above!
12 Horror Movies That Will Scare the Pants Off You This Fall
As the days begin to get shorter and the nights darker, you never know what creepy crawly things may be hiding in the shadows. In this case, though, we do know: horror movies. Tons of new ones are hitting theaters between now and the end of December, so if you live for jump-scares and psychological chills, you're in lots of luck. Here are 12 of the most exciting ones.
70 American Horror Story Characters to Be This Halloween
American Horror Story: Roanoke is in full swing, and while you may be very wary of the new season, it's prime time to put your distrust aside and plan your Halloween costume. American Horror Story: Freak Show is a gold mine of clever costume ideas, and AHS fans know there's no better way to scare your pop-culture-savvy friends than to perfect your Dr. Thredson or your Madison Montgomery. If you'd rather go the sexy route, there's always Moira the maid from season one - just make sure you're going for young Moira. Click through to get some ideas from season one, Asylum, Coven, Freak Show, Hotel, and Roanoke! In case you've already been there and done that will all the ideas from past seasons, here are just the Roanoke costumes!
The Ultimate Movie and TV Weddings Gallery
It's always wedding season to us, so we're turning to the big and small screens, where fictional characters take marriage vows all the time (including a ton from this year!). Whether the marriages lasted for minutes, months, or never even happened, we've compiled some of the best weddings from TV and movies. Take a trip down memory lane with all these ceremonies, complete with gorgeous gowns, scenic locations, and sweet kisses!
- Additional reporting by Laura Marie Meyers, Shannon Vestal, and Maggie Pehanick
Simple Low-Carb Food Swaps You Can Make Every Day
You've committed to eating low carb to lose weight. To help things feel a little easier (and less depressing), here are some food swaps you can make to save on carbs without feeling deprived.
For some of these swaps, it may not seem like a huge difference, but if you're constantly choosing the higher carb food, those carbs really add up.
| Instead of This | Eat This | Carbs Saved |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup blueberries (84 calories, 21.4 g) | 1 cup strawberries (49 calories, 11.7 g) | 9.7 g |
| 1 banana (105 calories, 27 g) | 1 orange (62 calories, 15.4 g) | 11.6 g |
| 1 tablespoon strawberry jam (40 calories, 10 g) | 2 small strawberries (4 calories, 1.1 g) | 8.9 g |
| 1 cup skim milk (90 calories, 13 g) | 1 cup unsweetened soy milk (80 calories, 3 g) | 10 g |
| 1 cup cooked pasta (221 calories, 43.2 g) | 1 cup cooked whole-wheat pasta (174 calories, 37.2 g) | 6 g |
| 1 cup cooked pasta (221 calories, 43.2 g) | 1 cup cooked spaghetti squash (42 calories, 10 g) | 33.2 g |
| 2 slices whole-wheat bread (200 calories, 44 g) | 1 whole-wheat wrap (130 calories, 22 g) | 22 g |
| 1 whole-wheat bagel (310 calories, 61 g) | 1 whole-wheat English muffin (120 calories, 23 g) | 38 g |
| 1 cup brown rice (218 calories, 45.8 g) | 1 cup quinoa (222 calories, 39.4 g) | 6.4 g |
| 1 cup brown rice (218 calories, 45.8 g) | 1 cup cauliflower rice (85 calories, 5.7 g) | 40.1 g |
| 12-oz. beer, IPA (170 calories, 15 g) | 5-oz. white wine, Chardonnay (118 calories, 3.7 g) | 11.3 g |
| 1 tablespoon honey (64 calories, 17.3 g) | 1 tablespoon maple syrup (53 calories, 13.3 g) | 4 g |
The Exquisite Costumes in Netflix's New Series Will Leave You Speechless
Netflix's new series The Crown promises to deliver on royal drama, but perhaps equally enthralling is its breathtaking fashion. The show, about the life of Queen Elizabeth II, is Netflix's most expensive show to date, at a rumored $100 million. We can assume that plenty of that went into the wardrobe, with a costume department of more than 50 working to make custom looks - rather than rely on vintage pieces - for the show. From Elizabeth's wedding gown to the royal jewels and even the more everyday dresses, each look is a testament to the painstaking work of that dedicated costume department. Read on to see their work come to fruition with a sneak peek at the show, then join us as we eagerly await the debut on Netflix Nov. 4.
Why the Number 17 Is So Important on Jane the Virgin
"Thirty-five hours 17 minutes to go, but who's counting?" Michael says early on in the dramatic Jane the Virgin season two finale. He's counting down the moments until the wedding - and the moment he'll get to finally have sex with Jane. But that never happens, because - major spoiler alert! - he's shot by international crime lord Sin Rostro on his way to get ice for his Champagne bucket. We're not quite sure what Michael's fate is, but the number 17 might be a clue. In fact, we're even more convinced because the season three premiere is airing on Oct. 17 - tonight!
First, let's examine the references. The "35 hours and 17 minutes to go" line is the first time we get a mention of the number 17, and if you were paying attention at home, you noticed that it wasn't the last. Here are the ones I caught:
- $1,700: After screwing up the honeymoon plans, Michael books the presidential suite at the Biltmore. When an annoyed Jane asks him how much it costs, he says, "Like 17-hundred bucks." Michael ends up canceling the room to satisfy Jane, which means they end up at Rafael's hotel, the scene of the shooting.
- 17 stops: After Rogelio's Rolls-Royce breaks down, Jane and her dad must take the bus. The driver tells them not once but twice that they'll arrive at the Holy Crown Church in 17 stops.
- 17 minutes late: Conveniently, Jane is 17 minutes late to her wedding.
I couldn't help but think: these writers have a thing for the number 17. So what does it mean?
The number 17 is considered unlucky in Italy - there, Friday the 17th is like Friday the 13th. In Roman numerals, 17 is written as XVII. You can use those letters to spell VIXI, which means in Latin, "I have lived," aka the past tense of "I live," aka "I'm dead." In the work of the ancient Roman philosopher Cicero, the phrase "they have lived" is used to announce an execution. Add in the fact that Cordero means lamb in Spanish, and I think the writers are trying to tell us that Michael is the show's sacrificial lamb. Based on this and other clues, I'm starting to think he's really, actually, definitely dead. We'll find out soon enough!
Simple Low-Carb Food Swaps You Can Make Every Day
You've committed to eating low carb to lose weight. To help things feel a little easier (and less depressing), here are some food swaps you can make to save on carbs without feeling deprived.
For some of these swaps, it may not seem like a huge difference, but if you're constantly choosing the higher carb food, those carbs really add up.
| Instead of This | Eat This | Carbs Saved |
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup blueberries (84 calories, 21.4 g) | 1 cup strawberries (49 calories, 11.7 g) | 9.7 g |
| 1 banana (105 calories, 27 g) | 1 orange (62 calories, 15.4 g) | 11.6 g |
| 1 tablespoon strawberry jam (40 calories, 10 g) | 2 small strawberries (4 calories, 1.1 g) | 8.9 g |
| 1 cup skim milk (90 calories, 13 g) | 1 cup unsweetened soy milk (80 calories, 3 g) | 10 g |
| 1 cup cooked pasta (221 calories, 43.2 g) | 1 cup cooked whole-wheat pasta (174 calories, 37.2 g) | 6 g |
| 1 cup cooked pasta (221 calories, 43.2 g) | 1 cup cooked spaghetti squash (42 calories, 10 g) | 33.2 g |
| 2 slices whole-wheat bread (200 calories, 44 g) | 1 whole-wheat wrap (130 calories, 22 g) | 22 g |
| 1 whole-wheat bagel (310 calories, 61 g) | 1 whole-wheat English muffin (120 calories, 23 g) | 38 g |
| 1 cup brown rice (218 calories, 45.8 g) | 1 cup quinoa (222 calories, 39.4 g) | 6.4 g |
| 1 cup brown rice (218 calories, 45.8 g) | 1 cup cauliflower rice (85 calories, 5.7 g) | 40.1 g |
| 12-oz. beer, IPA (170 calories, 15 g) | 5-oz. white wine, Chardonnay (118 calories, 3.7 g) | 11.3 g |
| 1 tablespoon honey (64 calories, 17.3 g) | 1 tablespoon maple syrup (53 calories, 13.3 g) | 4 g |
This Sprinkle Dot Confetti Bash Is Actually Birthday Party Perfection
As soon as Abe uttered the words, "I want confetti, bubbles, balloons, and dots," for his ninth birthday party, his mom was on a mission.
After deciding on a white backdrop to make everything pop, Lucinda of The Coop set out to create all things confetti. She covered milk bottles, Champagne glasses, and party hats with colorful tissue paper dots to set the tone for a festive day. As soon as the kids walked in, they were greeted with fabulous place settings of rice cereal treats sitting on dot confetti and vibrant drinks complete with celebratory fun straws (which also doubled as favors for the younger guests). One of the most beloved aspects of the day was the creative photo area that Lucinda designed with DIY large dot tassels as well as a basket filled with confetti poppers and a sign encouraging guests to strike a pose while popping a popper!
There Is Not 1 Flaw on Michelle Obama's Latest Magazine Cover
Michelle Obama graces one of seven covers for T magazine's October 2016 "The Greats Issue," and to say she's deserving of that title is definitely an understatement. The first lady looks beautiful on the black-and-white cover, showing some skin in a spaghetti-strap tank top, earrings, and natural makeup. The covers, which celebrate people who "redefine our culture," also feature singer Lady Gaga, painter Kerry James Marshall, novelist Zadie Smith, chef Massimo Bottura, photographer William Eggleston, and fashion designer Junya Watanabe. Michelle is described as "the first lady who forever changed the role," and has four thank-you notes written to her by people including actress Rashida Jones and author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
"She had the air of a woman who could balance a checkbook, and who knew a good deal when she saw it, and who would tell off whomever needed telling off," Chimamanda wrote. "She was tall and sure and stylish. She was reluctant to be first lady, and did not hide her reluctance beneath platitudes. She seemed not so much unique as true. She sharpened her husband's then-hazy form, made him solid, more than just a dream." Rashida echoed those same sentiments when she wrote, "As first lady, she has ticked all the boxes: loving wife, protective mother, health and fitness advocate, garden enthusiast and, yes, style icon. These accomplishments have left traditionalists feeling satisfied." See the cover above, then check out her other recent magazine cover with husband Barack.
The 10 Most Stylish Ways to Show You're With Her
As we scroll through our Instagram feeds, we feel as though the fashion world won't stop wearing Hillary Clinton gear. That is, until she's elected come November. Luckily, there are so many stylish ways to show you're with her - or even that you're voting in general. From designer tees to tote bags and necklaces, there are so many small but powerful ways to encourage others to show up to the polls. Every vote counts, and when you're wearing one of the pieces ahead, so does every outfit. Read on to see some of the most Insta-famous apparel, then shop your favorite designs.
Dissecting the Biggest Westworld Theory: Is Bernard an Android or Not?
After Westworld threw us for a loop in the premiere episode, we can no longer trust that those presented as guests to the park are, in fact, humans. But what if the deception goes even deeper? It occurred to me while watching that first episode that Bernard seems so poised, so practiced . . . could he be an android? I'm not alone, the internet has been buzzing about the idea that he may be one of Ford's most advanced creations. There have been offhanded comments that support the theory, as well as wrenches - particularly in the latest episode. Here are all the hints and clues we've caught!
- In the second episode, we find out that Cullen and Bernard are sleeping together. During the aftermath, she asks him why Westworld's androids bother speaking to each other. He says it's their way of practicing human characteristics, and she asks if that's what he's doing now. It could be an innocent joke, or it could be because she knows he's an android. It would explain why the executive (who seems to take professionalism very seriously) would be sleeping with an employee, as well.
- Bernard is a senior employee at the corporation, yet he doesn't know about Arnold? Ford explains the late cofounder's story to Bernard in the third episode, but it seems bizarre that Bernard has never heard about him. Is it because he only has as much knowledge as Ford has inputted into his memory?
- Here's something for the "human" column: At this point, we know that Bernard lost his young son, Charlie. He carries a photo around, and he's talked to Charlie's mother on the weird video phone. Many of the hosts have manufactured memories; we even see Teddy get a new backstory in the third episode. However, the depth of Bernard's history seems so real. He could just be practicing humanity with a projection of a woman who isn't real, but it feels like a stretch.
Bernard is an interesting case, to be sure. However, I've also noticed that "android humor" seems to be very popular among employees. Elsie jokes with Stubbs that she's surprised they let him carry a weapon, since only some androids are given weapons privileges. Meaningless remark or clue? I'm willing to bet that not all the humans are as real as they appear, but for now, Bernard is my primary suspect.
TV Scorecard: The Fall Shows That Have Already Been Picked Up
Ah, what a splendid time of year. Fall is such a time of change . . . when your sparse TV schedule suddenly changes into a jam-packed whirlwind of new TV shows. There are a ton of exciting new Fall series on the horizon, but the nerve-racking part about committing to something new is the risk of cancellation. Luckily, we're starting the season off on a good note: FX, NBC, CBS, and ABC have all issued early, exciting renewals for new and returning shows. Stay tuned, because we'll be updating the scorecard as news breaks in the months to come.
What's Been Picked Up
ABC
- Designated Survivor: The new drama earned a full season order from ABC.
- Speechless: ABC has expanded the show into a full first season!
NBC
- This Is Us: The heart-tugger has been picked up for a full first season: an 18-episode order!
CBS
- Bull: According to a press release from the studio, Bull has received a full-season order.
- Kevin Can Wait: The new show has been expanded into a full first season.
- Macgyver: A full-season order has been issued by CBS.
Fox
- Lethal Weapon: Fox has ordered 18 episodes total for the show's first season.
FX
- Atlanta: The new comedy has been renewed for a second season.
- Better Things: The show will be back for season two.
- The Strain: FX has issued a renewal for a fourth and final season.
- You're the Worst: The critically acclaimed series scored an early season four renewal.
HBO
- High Maintenance: HBO has renewed the NYC series for a second season.
MTV
- Scream: MTV has ordered six-episode third season.
Logo
- Finding Prince Charming: The Lance Bass-hosted dating show is getting a second season.
The Internet's New Favorite Trend Is Watching These Peaceful Videos of Glittery Goo
Most of us could use at least a few minutes in our day to relax and unwind from any stress at work or in our lives. While yoga and plenty of other activities are definitely helpful, there is one quick and easy way to put your mind at ease: watching videos of slime and goo be squished, pinched, and more.
It might sound weird at first, but an entire community of different accounts that use slime, sand, putty, and paint exists on Instagram to help people calm down. The videos are part of the ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) community and can help you calm down.
If this sounds interesting or you're just curious, watch some of our favorite videos from the Instagram account sparklygoo, which has more than 45,000 followers. This account gets creative and uses different types of goo that's colorful or sparkly, and some that even has stickers. Try looking at them ahead; you might end up enjoying the way you find yourself feeling.
This Mom's Genius Plan For Stopping Unbearable Public Meltdowns For Good
After witnessing a mom dealing with a screaming kid in the middle of grocery shopping, one woman not only felt sympathy for the struggling mom, but also came up with a plan of action.
In the anonymous mom's funny Facebook post that is going viral, the clever woman explains her new plan: getting someone to "mean mug the kid and tell it to shut up." This mom isn't suggesting a stranger yell at kids without a parent's permission but instead is proposing a secret signal that parents give each other when they can't take the public meltdowns anymore. These are the reasons behind her unconventional parenting strategy.
- The kid will be so shocked they will shut up.
- It will reinforce stranger danger.
- It will show them, from an early age, that while your parents love you and put up with your sh*t, the rest of the world doesn't care about you (or your feelings), no matter how cute you are.
Glenn's Death in The Walking Dead Comic Books Is More Disgusting Than You Could Possibly Imagine
A few spoilers about the show below! Tread lightly!
The Walking Dead writers chose to end their season six finale with a massive, frustrating cliffhanger that deprived fans of the knowledge of who the show's newest villain, Negan, brutally murdered in the final seconds of the episode. Although they purposefully kept the ending supervague and there are a few options as to who it could've been, a lot of signs point to it being Glenn, who died in that same scene in the comic books. Since the fact that we won't find out who Negan kills on the show until TWD returns on Sunday, we've decided to channel our anger into studying every bit of Glenn's iconically gruesome death from the comics.
Here's the Crazy Instrument That Makes All Those Creepy Horror-Movie Sounds
Ever wondered how all those scary movies sound so scary? Well, you can get a glimpse into all those horror-movie sounds in this old video that's bubbling up across the web. In it, a man plays an instrument called a waterphone, which makes the smooth, eerie sound that's regularly featured in movie soundtracks. Watch the fascinating video to see how it works, then check out upcoming horror movies to get excited about and find out more about how movie sound effects are made.
What You Need to Know About The Walking Dead's Dynamic New Character, Ezekiel
The Walking Dead's season seven premiere is about to come crashing into our lives, and those who have caught the latest trailers are sure to have noticed the eccentric new face that appears - and with a tiger. This dreadlocked new character is Ezekiel, the "king" of the newest colony of survivors to be introduced, The Kingdom. Before he makes his grand entrance, here's a primer.
What Is The Kingdom?
Much like Alexandria or Hilltop, The Kingdom is another settlement of people and is a part of the same trading line as Hilltop that must pay tribute to The Saviors. Ezekiel is the leader of this colony, where they live within an old school that is walled off by buses and sheet metal. The people there all refer to him as "King" Ezekiel, and no visitors are allowed to be present in The Kingdom without a personal escort.
What's With the Tiger?
Not much is known about Ezekiel's past, but he states that he used to be a zookeeper and has known his pet tiger, Shiva, since she was born. Before the apocalypse, Shiva had fallen into the moat that surrounded her exhibit, badly injuring her leg. Not wanting her to bleed out before help could arrive, Ezekiel ran to her aid and tied his shirt around the wound. Mistaking him for the cause of her pain, Shiva slashed him across his stomach, leaving deep cuts. Ezekiel and Shiva both survived, and she never showed a hint of aggression towards him again.
How He Might Cause Drama for "Richonne"
When Michonne first meets Ezekiel in the comics, she is initially put off by his flashy and arrogant personality and calls him out for being another leader that manipulates his followers into treating him special. He refutes this claim by saying that people want a leader that they can look up to in order to feel safe, and by feeling safer, they are more productive and cooperative as a result. The two eventually begin to form a relationship with one another. The main difference here is that in the comics, Rick and Michonne were never in a relationship like they currently are on the show. Ezekiel's introduction has the chance of splitting them up in the future.
Why He's Important to the Future
As tensions between the Alexandria and Hilltop communities rise against The Saviors, Ezekiel and his Kingdom become major players in the resistance against Negan. The Saviors outnumber these groups significantly, and only by uniting do any of them stand a chance in overcoming their control over the smaller settlements. Ezekiel is bound to be an intriguing new addition to the cast of characters, and we look forward to seeing Shiva in action.
18 Key People Who Are Confirmed For Fuller House Season 2
Fuller House already has some exciting developments in store for season two. Not only will there be even more cameos this time around, but we'll finally get to meet Joey Gladstone's infamous family. Even though Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen won't be reprising their roles as Michelle Tanner, there is still an amazing cast in store for next season. See all the new and returning actors below!
Researchers Find a Concerning Link Between Obesity and Liver Cancer
A recent study outlined a worrisome link between obesity, diabetes, and liver cancer. In Cancer Research, a journal from the American Association for Cancer Research, a research team announced that a high body mass index, larger waist circumference, and diabetes can all increase the risk for liver cancer.
The researchers looked at 14 different studies - amounting to over 1 million participants - and noticed that liver cancer diagnoses increased as participants' respective body mass indexes increased. The risk for liver cancer was also affected by the subjects' waist circumferences. Meaning, subjects whose weight was more concentrated at the waist would have a higher risk of developing liver cancer even if their body mass indexes were the same as another subject with a lower risk.
Lastly, the study found that many of the high-risk subjects also had type 2 diabetes mellitus, a diabetes type partly caused by obesity.
The findings are changing the public's preconceived notions about liver cancer and its causes. In a press statement, Peter Campbell of the American Cancer Society said, "Liver cancer isn't simply related to excess alcohol intake and viral hepatitis infection." Adding, "This is yet another reason to maintain a body weight in the 'normal' range for your height."
Researchers Find a Concerning Link Between Obesity and Liver Cancer
A recent study outlined a worrisome link between obesity, diabetes, and liver cancer. In Cancer Research, a journal from the American Association for Cancer Research, a research team announced that a high body mass index, larger waist circumference, and diabetes can all increase the risk for liver cancer.
The researchers looked at 14 different studies - amounting to over 1 million participants - and noticed that liver cancer diagnoses increased as participants' respective body mass indexes increased. The risk for liver cancer was also affected by the subjects' waist circumferences. Meaning, subjects whose weight was more concentrated at the waist would have a higher risk of developing liver cancer even if their body mass indexes were the same as another subject with a lower risk.
Lastly, the study found that many of the high-risk subjects also had type 2 diabetes mellitus, a diabetes type partly caused by obesity.
The findings are changing the public's preconceived notions about liver cancer and its causes. In a press statement, Peter Campbell of the American Cancer Society said, "Liver cancer isn't simply related to excess alcohol intake and viral hepatitis infection." Adding, "This is yet another reason to maintain a body weight in the 'normal' range for your height."
So You Just Ate a Sleeve of Oreos and 11 Reese's Cups . . . Now What?
As a sweets fan myself, I can fully admit that there have been moments in my life when I've polished off a pint of ice cream solo, housed a box of Girl Scout cookies in one sitting, and inhaled half a sleeve of Oreos without even thinking twice about it. I'd like to think I live a healthy life and adhere to a pretty healthy diet, but we've all had our questionable moments, and it's fine, we're all fine, everything's going to be fine. Are you feeling me on this? Are you reading this with Oreo crumbs on your face, nodding with a mixture of regret and relief?
If you've had a lapse of judgment or just really indulged on a dessert marathon (I'm with you), there are things you can do to counteract your sugar binge. And if you're feeling a little sick, jittery, and wondering "what do I even do with myself now?" then don't fret - we consulted some dietitians to give you a step by step guide on how to get your body and brain back on track.
"When it comes to counteracting a sugar binge, there is unfortunately no magic food or step to resolve it," said Lisa Eberly, R.D. "The three main ingredients to combat a serious sugar binge are moving, water, and time." And while we're bummed about the "no magic food" part, we're relieved to know that there are steps we can take.
Moving
Let's sweat it out, right? Eberly explained to us how all this sugar is processed by the body, and how you can begin to balance things out again. Although movement is only the first step, it's totally necessary to get the detox going.
"When you ingest any kind of carb or sweet, it breaks down into glucose," said Eberly. "That glucose runs through your veins in the hopes of being taken up into the cells and used for energy." Got it. Sugar becomes glucose, glucose is the body's energy.
"This glucose - a fancy word for sugar - cruises through the blood until your muscle cells signal that they need some glucose to break down and use as energy." Hungry muscles want sugar! Use those muscles, and you'll be using up some of that excess sugar. Thanks, Oreos!
But if you're not using your muscles (read: working out, moving, etc.) then that energy is actually going to turn into fat (womp, womp). "If you eat a ton of sugar and then lounge on the couch, your muscles are like, 'Nah, no thanks.' And that glucose mulls around a bit and ultimately gets stored as fat," said Eberly.
"On the contrary, if you eat sugar and then go for a 10-minute walk, your muscles are like, 'Hey dude, thanks for the fuel,' and they soak that glucose up. This doesn't mean you need to hit up a SoulCycle class right after eating three cupcakes, it just means that if your body is moving, you're using glucose. Best practice would be a nice walk for 15 to 20 minutes to counteract a sugar binge."
And a reminder, there are WAY healthier ways to feed your muscles glucose - like in whole grain breads, potatoes, and even pasta.
Water
Everyone we talked to suggested water as the best step. To break down why water is so crucial, Eberly explained the physiology with a metaphor many of us can relate to.
"Remember that glucose running through our blood? Well, let's pretend for a moment that our blood is a cocktail and sugar is alcohol. After a sugar binge, you'd imagine your body's cocktail would taste, well, strong. Now add a little bit of water to it. Better . . . Now add a ton of water. That's a weak cocktail."
"Drinking water will help to add volume to your blood, diluting the sugar," she said. "Additionally, water will help speed up the filtering of your blood, getting the sugar outta there. Lastly, most sugar binges have an accompanying headache, which water helps to prevent. Guzzle for a few hours following a binge; your body will thank you.
In addition to staying hydrated with H2O, nutrition coach Carrie McMahon suggests you "stick to as many whole foods as you can," and "try not to eat anything in a package, or anything pre-prepared." Her advice? "Stick to vegetables, meats, fruits, eggs, nuts, avocados, and whole grains . . . These foods are hydrating and fiber-filled, to ensure you get your body back to normal after a sugar rush."
Lara Felton, R.D., gave similar advice to McMahon, suggesting you "don't skip meals" (if you're hungry, you'll probably binge again!), but "cut calories" and "fill up on lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, and vegetables."
Time
"There's no magic pill or special food that will rid your body of sugar," said Eberly. "Water and moving will speed the process up, but being proactive is the best way to prevent the dreaded post-binge feeling."
She reminded us that "every bite of a sugary treat tastes the same." (Truuuue!) "So having three bites will taste the same as 20, with a much easier follow up. One way to keep yourself from bingeing is to eat sweets mindfully and intentionally."
That intentionality is essential to saving yourself from the effects of future binges. Ilana Muhlstein, R.D., told us to identify if there's anything in particular that caused the binge - what are your trigger foods? "Get clear on what triggered the binge, what you could have done to stop it sooner, and how it felt to lose that sense of control, so you don't repeat the act again."
Eberly stated that portion control is crucial going forward. "Going for the ice cream? Put it in a small bowl. Hand in the M&Ms? Take one handful and put away the bag. Big slice of chocolate cake? Put your fork down in between bites. These small steps toward mindfulness can help you not only eat less of your treats, but help you savor and appreciate them so much more."
Another tactic to preventing a future binge or stopping the onset of one: "Don't fall into the "all-or-nothing" mentality," said Felton. "This means, even if you 'fell off the wagon,' you don't need to go crazy. If you can step back, walk away from the food (or throw it away in the trash outside so you aren't tempted to go back for it) and distract yourself with another activity, you can reset your attention and focus from the sugar rush," she said.
So You Just Ate a Sleeve of Oreos and 11 Reese's Cups . . . Now What?
As a sweets fan myself, I can fully admit that there have been moments in my life when I've polished off a pint of ice cream solo, housed a box of Girl Scout cookies in one sitting, and inhaled half a sleeve of Oreos without even thinking twice about it. I'd like to think I live a healthy life and adhere to a pretty healthy diet, but we've all had our questionable moments, and it's fine, we're all fine, everything's going to be fine. Are you feeling me on this? Are you reading this with Oreo crumbs on your face, nodding with a mixture of regret and relief?
If you've had a lapse of judgment or just really indulged on a dessert marathon (I'm with you), there are things you can do to counteract your sugar binge. And if you're feeling a little sick, jittery, and wondering "what do I even do with myself now?" then don't fret - we consulted some dietitians to give you a step by step guide on how to get your body and brain back on track.
"When it comes to counteracting a sugar binge, there is unfortunately no magic food or step to resolve it," said Lisa Eberly, R.D. "The three main ingredients to combat a serious sugar binge are moving, water, and time." And while we're bummed about the "no magic food" part, we're relieved to know that there are steps we can take.
Moving
Let's sweat it out, right? Eberly explained to us how all this sugar is processed by the body, and how you can begin to balance things out again. Although movement is only the first step, it's totally necessary to get the detox going.
"When you ingest any kind of carb or sweet, it breaks down into glucose," said Eberly. "That glucose runs through your veins in the hopes of being taken up into the cells and used for energy." Got it. Sugar becomes glucose, glucose is the body's energy.
"This glucose - a fancy word for sugar - cruises through the blood until your muscle cells signal that they need some glucose to break down and use as energy." Hungry muscles want sugar! Use those muscles, and you'll be using up some of that excess sugar. Thanks, Oreos!
But if you're not using your muscles (read: working out, moving, etc.) then that energy is actually going to turn into fat (womp, womp). "If you eat a ton of sugar and then lounge on the couch, your muscles are like, 'Nah, no thanks.' And that glucose mulls around a bit and ultimately gets stored as fat," said Eberly.
"On the contrary, if you eat sugar and then go for a 10-minute walk, your muscles are like, 'Hey dude, thanks for the fuel,' and they soak that glucose up. This doesn't mean you need to hit up a SoulCycle class right after eating three cupcakes, it just means that if your body is moving, you're using glucose. Best practice would be a nice walk for 15 to 20 minutes to counteract a sugar binge."
And a reminder, there are WAY healthier ways to feed your muscles glucose - like in whole grain breads, potatoes, and even pasta.
Water
Everyone we talked to suggested water as the best step. To break down why water is so crucial, Eberly explained the physiology with a metaphor many of us can relate to.
"Remember that glucose running through our blood? Well, let's pretend for a moment that our blood is a cocktail and sugar is alcohol. After a sugar binge, you'd imagine your body's cocktail would taste, well, strong. Now add a little bit of water to it. Better . . . Now add a ton of water. That's a weak cocktail."
"Drinking water will help to add volume to your blood, diluting the sugar," she said. "Additionally, water will help speed up the filtering of your blood, getting the sugar outta there. Lastly, most sugar binges have an accompanying headache, which water helps to prevent. Guzzle for a few hours following a binge; your body will thank you.
In addition to staying hydrated with H2O, nutrition coach Carrie McMahon suggests you "stick to as many whole foods as you can," and "try not to eat anything in a package, or anything pre-prepared." Her advice? "Stick to vegetables, meats, fruits, eggs, nuts, avocados, and whole grains . . . These foods are hydrating and fiber-filled, to ensure you get your body back to normal after a sugar rush."
Lara Felton, R.D., gave similar advice to McMahon, suggesting you "don't skip meals" (if you're hungry, you'll probably binge again!), but "cut calories" and "fill up on lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, and vegetables."
Time
"There's no magic pill or special food that will rid your body of sugar," said Eberly. "Water and moving will speed the process up, but being proactive is the best way to prevent the dreaded post-binge feeling."
She reminded us that "every bite of a sugary treat tastes the same." (Truuuue!) "So having three bites will taste the same as 20, with a much easier follow up. One way to keep yourself from bingeing is to eat sweets mindfully and intentionally."
That intentionality is essential to saving yourself from the effects of future binges. Ilana Muhlstein, R.D., told us to identify if there's anything in particular that caused the binge - what are your trigger foods? "Get clear on what triggered the binge, what you could have done to stop it sooner, and how it felt to lose that sense of control, so you don't repeat the act again."
Eberly stated that portion control is crucial going forward. "Going for the ice cream? Put it in a small bowl. Hand in the M&Ms? Take one handful and put away the bag. Big slice of chocolate cake? Put your fork down in between bites. These small steps toward mindfulness can help you not only eat less of your treats, but help you savor and appreciate them so much more."
Another tactic to preventing a future binge or stopping the onset of one: "Don't fall into the "all-or-nothing" mentality," said Felton. "This means, even if you 'fell off the wagon,' you don't need to go crazy. If you can step back, walk away from the food (or throw it away in the trash outside so you aren't tempted to go back for it) and distract yourself with another activity, you can reset your attention and focus from the sugar rush," she said.
Kristen Stewart and St. Vincent Seem to Confirm Their Romance by Holding Hands in NYC
Kristen Stewart and St. Vincent have kept people guessing about the status of their relationship for a few weeks now, and on Sunday, they seemed to possibly confirm a romance. The two were spotted holding hands while walking around New York City's East Village neighborhood on Oct. 16. After grabbing dinner together, the actress and the singer looked all loved up while stealing a few cute glances during their nighttime stroll. A few hours earlier, they were spotted leaving The Bowery Hotel together, but were careful not to show any PDA. Kristen recently broke up with her on-again, off-again girlfriend, Alicia Cargile, while St. Vincent previously dated Cara Delevingne.
The Internet Rallied to Help This Dad Recover His Late Wife's Music to Play to Their Son
After his wife passed away during childbirth, Jared Buhanan-Decker had an "odd request" for the internet - he needed help accessing her music so his newborn son, James (JJ), could hear her voice and she could sing him lullabies.
"My wife recently died during the childbirth of our first baby, needless to say life has been hell the last two months. She dabbled in writing and recording songs nothing professional of course but very important to me," he wrote on Reddit. He explained that he needed help converting the videos into a simple format, because "she knew how to do all of this stuff but I have no idea. I just want to be able to hear her voice again. Thank you."
All it took was a few hours for the Reddit community to put their audio-engineering brains together to covert the files and send Jared Sharry's music in a playable format - one user even offered to produce a full song with her music! Now baby JJ can listen to his mother's beautiful voice with the touch of a button.
Before she passed away, Jared's wife started a blog to write about their adventures together, and Jared has continued where she left off, writing about his life with JJ. "And I would be remiss if I didn't mention how good absolute and complete strangers have been on Reddit and elsewhere," he wrote in a post. "Baby girl I doubt there will ever be anything that completely fills the giant Sharry size hole in my heart and soul but people are helping, at least a bit, and for all this I am grateful."
dimanche 16 octobre 2016
Grunge Goddesses Will Want to Wear the Bat-Wing Cat Eye All Fall Long
A precise cat eye is a stunning way to make a dramatic statement with your eye makeup. But there are so many variations on the classic wing, it's worth switching up your everyday style. Now that it's Autumn, we'd like to offer the edgy bat-wing cat eye for your consideration.
Last year, Kat Von D flaunted the look on Instagram (and generously shared an easy-to-follow tutorial). But she's not the only woman to post her graphic masterpiece on Instagram. Ahead, we've rounded up an assortment of 12 different bat-wing cat eyes - from hyperrealistic to supersubtle - for you to replicate. It's an excellent eye option for Halloween, but as grunge-beauty-lovers, we'll likely end up wearing this all through Fall.
CrossFit-Inspired 200-Rep Bodyweight Workout
You don't need heavy-duty barbells, a box, or a pull-up bar for this intense workout, but it's still fast-paced, full-body, and intense. It's just four basic moves, 10 reps each, repeated five times for a total of 200 reps. Aim to do this workout AQAP (as quickly as possible), finishing in under eight to 10 minutes, paying special attention to proper form.
CrossFit-Inspired 200-Rep Bodyweight Workout
You don't need heavy-duty barbells, a box, or a pull-up bar for this intense workout, but it's still fast-paced, full-body, and intense. It's just four basic moves, 10 reps each, repeated five times for a total of 200 reps. Aim to do this workout AQAP (as quickly as possible), finishing in under eight to 10 minutes, paying special attention to proper form.
The Fashion-Based Theory From The Walking Dead That No One Is Talking About
We'll have to wait until October for The Walking Dead to return, but that won't stop us from trying to solve every mystery from the show - including ones we discover all on our own, after hours of binge-watching the suspenseful series. For instance: have you noticed that the majority of female walkers roam around in maxi dresses? What's the deal there? Was there a shortage of pants before this virus spread, forcing them to rock the next-best comfy staple? We really need to know!
In reality, it's probably easier for the costume department to rip up and "walker-fy" a single piece rather than a full outfit. But we'll still hold out hope that one day, our question will be explained. Until then, take a look at the maxis taking over this apocalyptic world. Then see what life was like before walkers were everywhere.
Here's a Map With WiFi Passwords For Airports All Around the World
Anyone who goes on a vacation or travels for work knows that sitting around in an airport can feel like years. Some airports charge for WiFi, and in others it works so slowly. Never worry about that again with this map and app that has the WiFi passwords for airports all over the world.
Created by Anil Polat, a self-proclaimed "digital nomad" and writer who runs foXnoMad, a travel blog, the map has WiFi passwords to airports, and includes instructions on how to access it. In some cases, the map also includes how long the free WiFi lasts. It's updated regularly and Polat encourages readers of his blog to submit any new information or WiFi spots they find. If you don't want to bookmark the page where this map exists, download the app, WiFox, in three forms: iOS, Android, or Amazon. You can check out the map below.
Keep this map handy for the next time you're on a long layover or get stuck in an airport; you won't regret it one bit.
These Are the Chores Your Child Should Be Doing This Year Based on Their Age
If you're a mama who feels like she's doing literally everything around the house, including picking up after your very capable kids, we know how you feel. It makes some parents feel guilty to give their children mundane responsibilities like taking out the garbage, and some moms follow the "if I do it, it'll get done faster and better" mode of thinking. But the truth is, our children can - and probably should - handle more than we think.
We're not suggesting you turn your child into a regular Mrs. Doubtfire, but there are a bunch of tasks around the house that can be completed by children based on their age. If you're looking to set your kiddos up with a chore chart to help them learn about hard work and having responsibilities, there's something every child can help with.
Scroll through for a list of manageable household chores for kids based on their age.
100+ Costumes That Will Fulfill Any Geek's Halloween Fantasies
Year after year, fan conventions are the best way to predict the most popular Halloween costumes thanks to the creativity and dedication of cosplayers. Attendees at New York Comic Con 2016 brought their A game, creating timely getups inspired by modern entertainment like Stranger Things and Jessica Jones but also representing classic pop culture with throwback costumes like Interview With the Vampire and Rugrats.
There were so many jaw-dropping cosplays that, to be quite frank, this gallery might actually make picking a Halloween costume harder, but we're sure you won't mind. (Trust us, you've got to see the genderbent Sailor Moon group costume.)
12 Sweet Photos of Drew Barrymore and Her Adorable Daughters
Drew Barrymore has been a Hollywood mainstay since she was a baby - and has seemed to live about a million lives since then - which is why it's so heartwarming to see her settle into the role of mother. Drew married art adviser Will Kopelman in June 2012, three months before the couple welcomed their first daughter, Olive. Their second baby girl, Frankie, was born in April 2014, and the little ones quickly started to bear a resemblance to their famous mom - seriously, Olive is almost identical to a young Drew in her E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial days.
While Drew and Will have since split, the actress has given us a few peeks at Frankie and Olive on social media, at charity events, and in People magazine. We've rounded up some of Drew's most adorable moments with her kids.
21 Interesting Facts You Don't Know About Forever 21
At 35 years old, fast fashion retailer Forever 21 has already had quite the life. There's been a name change, some controversy, celebrity fans, and hundreds of locations, all of which doesn't even begin to tell its full - and fascinating! - story.
Considering this one-stop shop is a store we'll never quit, it's about time we got to know it a little better. Read on for 21 facts you never knew about Forever 21, then check out more tidbits about another fashion favorite, ASOS.
Why 1 Expert Says Velvet Is the Fashion Trend You'll Be Wearing All Fall
When it's time to transition to a new season, my rule to not feeling overwhelmed by the many trends and looks that plague your Instagram and Pinterest is simple: I pick one strong trend and find pieces I already have in my closet that can complement it. For Fall, one of my favorite trends is velvet - velvet everything! It's such a rich and beautiful texture that works well for day to night and is equally beautiful in shoes, dresses, accessories, and beyond! Keep reading to see 10 ways you can wear the trend this season.
Stylist Irma Martinez, who has worked with celebrities like Thalia, Sofia Vergara, Daisy Fuentes, and Eva Longoria, shares her most useful fashion secrets with POPSUGAR Latina. Find her book El Manual del Estilista on Amazon.
Samsung's sour Note and scams by text: The Marketplace consumer cheat sheet
Have you had a busy week? Don't worry. CBC's Marketplace rounds up the consumer and health news you need.
11 Stylish Halloween Costumes You Can Find in Your Pajama Drawer
Yes, we love Halloween, but the older we get, the less appealing those skimpy, sexy costumes become. What we'd really like is to rock our pajamas and sweats all day long, but still look cute - and festive! - while doing so. Enter the 11 easy costume ideas ahead, the materials for which you'll likely find in your PJ collection. Scroll through for a few suggestions and tips on how to make 'em, then prepare to step out in the comfiest getup you've ever worn.
Samsung's sour Note and scams by text: The Marketplace consumer cheat sheet
Have you had a busy week? Don't worry. CBC's Marketplace rounds up the consumer and health news you need.
A Bride Danced to Beyoncé's "Single Ladies" as a Stormtrooper and It's Amazing
Some weddings involve a beautiful rotation of gorgeous dresses, and others include a full-on first dance with stormtroopers and Beyoncé. For Kathryn Holloway and Philip Wood's wedding, the pair asked the dancing group Boogie Storm to don their stormtrooper outfits and perform a routine for the first dance. If you're unfamiliar with Boogie Storm, they are well known for competing on Britain's Got Talent and impressing Simon Cowell so much, he hit the gold buzzer. The group did a similar routine to the one from the show for Holloway and Wood's wedding, except with one surprise: Holloway was a stormtrooper herself and danced with the group as a wedding present to her husband. You can watch a condensed clip of the dance to songs like "Single Ladies" and "Gangnam Style" above or see the entire dance on Vimeo.
Corrections Canada trying to stop inmates from overdosing on fentanyl
Fentanyl's reach is stretching behind the bars of Canada's federal penitentiaries, with 27 overdoses and six deaths in the last three years.
The Ultimate Guide to 2016's Hottest Pop Culture Halloween Costumes
"Halloween costumes already?" you might be mumbling to yourself. "But it's only September!" That might be true, but with a tidal wave of candy corn and pumpkin spice lattes surging its way toward us as Fall swiftly approaches, it's high time to get your costume in order. Whether you're dressing up with bae, heading out with a group of friends, or making mischief solo, steal some inspiration from 2016's biggest movies and TV shows for the perfect Oct. 31 ensemble.
Corrections Canada trying to stop inmates from overdosing on fentanyl
Fentanyl's reach is stretching behind the bars of Canada's federal penitentiaries, with 27 overdoses and six deaths in the last three years.
The Ultimate Checklist For Keeping Your Kid Safe on Halloween
Everyone loves a good scare on Halloween, but Safe Kids Worldwide - an advocacy organization dedicated to protecting kids from injury - knows all too well the very real dangers that can come from being unprepared while out trick-or-treating, even as a family.
On average, twice as many child pedestrians are killed while walking on Halloween as compared to other days of the year, and a startling 12 percent of kids 5 years old and younger go door-to-door alone, without any adult supervision. And although most parents reported having concerns about safety during this holiday in particular, only one-third of moms talk to their kids about Halloween safety.
Whether it's finding an appropriate costume, setting clear trick-or-treating guidelines, enforcing candy rules, and driving defensively yourself, we've compiled a helpful checklist of easy and effective ways to keep your kids safe every step of the way.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt and His Wife Make Their First Joint Public Appearance All Covered in Blood
Joseph Gordon-Levitt and wife Tasha McCauley got all bloodied up for a performance at Seth Rogen's annual Halloween Hilarity for Charity variety show in LA on Saturday night. The duo, who secretly tied the knot back in December 2014, tore up the stage in matching blood-splattered outfits and were as cute as can be while snapping photos backstage. The event, which benefits the Alzheimer's Association, also brought out Scott Eastwood, Elizabeth Olsen, and James Corden, and it marked the first time we've seen these two at a public event together.
60 Supersexy Celebrity Halloween Costumes
When it comes to sexy Halloween costumes, there are plenty of options. The spooky holiday always brings out plenty of celebrities in crazy getups, and while some take the opportunity to go wild with their looks, others jump at the chance to show some skin. Case in point: the supersexy outfits from the stars that we've rounded up here.
9 Geeky Cake Topper Ideas to Complete the Wedding of Your Dreams
Some people's hearts love their geeky fandom so much that they create an entire wedding around it. If you're looking for something a little low-key, a geeky cake topper might be the best way to show off a little individuality. Check out some real wedding inspiration ahead, and don't forget to capture your cake as part of your wedding day photo checklist.
15 Spanish-Language Movies to Add to Your Netflix Queue Stat
If you've already binge-watched your favorite telenovelas on Netflix, might we suggest loading up your queue with must-see movies in Spanish?
The popular streaming platform actually has a solid mix of comedies - including Pulling Strings, starring Jane the Virgin's Jaime Camil - dramas, and feel-good films, all perfect for when you need a break from episode-heavy shows. Ahead, find 15 titles we'd recommend adding to your list. Want more? Check out all the new movies you can expect in October.
The 19 Best Horror Movies of the 2000s
The decade of the '00s birthed a lot of epic horror movies - many of which were the most brutally gory movies we've ever seen. A lot changed from the scream-fests of the '80s to the slashers of the '90s. Movies weren't worth seeing in the '00s if they didn't turn your stomach a little or make you flinch a lot. Here are the best horror movies that made us jump, gag, and snicker - all released between 2000 and 2009.
Lauren Conrad's Halloween Costume Might Just Be Prettier Than Her Wedding Dress
Lauren Conrad's Instagram page is like one big, dreamy mood board. So it's no surprise that when she shared a sneak peek at her Halloween costume, the snap fit right in. All we know so far is that her hand-sewn look will be made of tulle. Right now, we're guessing she's going as a ballerina, but that's just based on the single strip of baby pink ribbon in the picture. Read on to get a first look at LC's undoubtedly pretty DIY outfit, plus see more of her past costumes. Will 2016's be more gorgeous than her wedding gown? Only time will tell.
Kristen Stewart and St. Vincent Continue to Fuel Dating Rumors With Their Latest Outing
After taking the New York Film Festival by storm, Kristen Stewart was seen leaving The Bowery Hotel in NYC with her rumored new girlfriend, St. Vincent, on Sunday. While the pair steered clear of any PDA, St. Vincent flashed a sweet smile as she walked behind Kristen. The potential couple originally sparked dating rumors after they were spotted hanging out in the Big Apple earlier this month. According to sources, Kristen brought the singer to her Certain Women premiere on Oct. 3 and "they spent almost every day together after that." A source close to the pair also revealed, "It's been very romantic . . . Kristen is always whispering closely in her ear and asking her opinion."
20 Style Lessons I Learned From My 92-Year-Old Neighbor
Every so often, my mom will call me over to the kitchen window in our second-story apartment. "Quick," she'll yell in a slightly hushed way, as if someone else might hear her. "You need to see what Mary's wearing!"
Mary is our neighbor who lives across the street, and while she may be 92, she's quite possibly one of the most stylish people I know. Whenever I see her, she's usually dressed in bright tailored slacks, a patterned blazer, standout accessories, and - my personal favorite - kitten heels. And that's just what she wears to garden.
So when the topic of interviewing an older, wiser woman for fashion advice came up in a meeting, I knew just who to call.
I entered Mary's apartment bright and early on a Sunday morning - the only free slot in her busy schedule - and immediately knew she had tons to share. Outfits for the week hung on a door, and every closet was packed to the max with clothes. With my phone set to record, we began. Read on for all the helpful style tips Mary had to share, as I hope to end up exactly like her.
See "World's Biggest Git" Percy Weasley in a WHOLE New Way
In the words of Ron Weasley, Percy Weasley is, in many ways, "the world's biggest git." Of the Weasley clan, the third oldest brother is always the butt of the family jokes. He is pompous, he's an overachiever, and he famously chooses his job at the Ministry of Magic over his family. Percy might be many things, but most of all, he is misunderstood. So let's talk about Percy, who is perhaps the least endearing Weasley sibling but certainly not without his strong suits.
A recent Reddit thread explored why Percy is the way he is and delved into his motivations behind both his good and his bad choices in the Harry Potter series. He doesn't always have it easy, but considering his circumstances, things aren't quite as black and white with the former head boy as they seem. And if you really think about it, he is pretty remarkable in his own way. Redditor booksblanketsandtea brought up some pretty interesting observations.
Can we talk about how an incredibly ambitious young man likely ended up in the worst possible House for him because he was terrified of disappointing his family? Can we talk about how he'd been told his entire life that to be ambitious (to be Slytherin) was a bad thing? Can we talk about how protective he was of Ron and Ginny when they came to Hogwarts? How proud he was of Ron, for besting McGonagall's chess set (because who do you think taught Ron how to play? It certainly wasn't the twins, and I doubt either Molly or Arthur had time).
Can we talk about how Percy felt more accepted and comfortable at the Ministry - where people couldn't even remember his name - than he did with his own family, who made him the butt of practically every joke, who either looked down on his goals, or couldn't be bothered to show an interest simply because it wasn't something they themselves were keen on? (And people wonder why he sided with the Ministry over his family, over Harry - who was a complete stranger and was more easily accepted than he ever was?)
Let's talk about how maybe Gryffindor was the right House for him - because even after all this, when he was proved wrong, he had the guts to come back, to apologise to his family that he loved (and who did, of course, love him - even if they didn't really understand him). Can we talk about how brave that was? "Perfect Percy" admitting he was wrong to his Father who [he] had once idolized, and then working as a spy for the Order? Keeping that distance between he and the rest of the family in place so he could feed them info about the Ministry? Before he turned up at the last minute to help fight at the Battle of Hogwarts? About how he lost his little brother, who - if Percy had been just a minute or two later down that passageway - would have died practically hating him? About how Percy likely went the rest of his life thinking that - if given the chance - his family would rather that he had died, instead of Fred? How he himself likely wished that that had been the case? Can we talk about how Percy Weasley was, in the end, perhaps the perfect amalgamation of Slytherin and Gryffindor? Just - can we talk about Percy?
Should we give Percy a little more mercy? Maybe if Percy had been in Slytherin instead of Gryffindor, he would have been able to foster his talents differently. Maybe if he'd been able to relate to his family more and if they'd been more open to who he was despite his undeniable prat-like qualities, he would have felt closer to them despite his job at the Ministry.
But let us not forget that when it really matters, Percy comes back for his family. He bursts into the Battle of Hogwarts ready to fight alongside the rest of the Weasleys, and he does something that many people - even the beloved heroes of Harry Potter - have a hard time doing: he admits he was wrong. He initiates a reconciliation and does what he can to start to repair his relationship with his family and begin again with them all. Brave, brilliant, calculating, ambitious, and loyal. Yep, sounds like the perfect combination of a Slytherin and Gryffindor to me, too.
20 Crocheted Newborn Costumes For Their First Halloween
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The desire to dress tiny newborns in adorable little clothes always wins out over the feeling that maybe you shouldn't be spending much money on such a small human who will grow out of anything new in a few days. So to indulge your very natural enthusiasm to dress your teeny baby, we've compiled 20 knitted outfits for your newborn to wear for their first Halloween - or even for their first photo shoot - that can be knitted or crocheted by the crafty mom or bought on Etsy.
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