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.
mardi 7 février 2017
Kourtney Kardashian Has the Cutest Children - and We Have the Proof!
When Kourtney Kardashian isn't out slaying the single life, the reality-TV star is busy being a doting mom. In July 2015, Kourtney ended her relationship with longtime boyfriend Scott Disick after nearly 10 years of dating, and during that time, she became a mother three times. Kourtney welcomed her first son, Mason Dash Disick, in December 2009 and had Penelope Scotland Disick in July 2012. Two years later she gave birth to her youngest child, Reign Aston Disick. Along the way, Kourtney has given us a peek into her family life, sharing plenty of ridiculously cute moments on Instagram.
27 Times Selena Gomez's Airport Outfits Were Comfy and Chic
Selena Gomez spends a lot of hours on airplanes - thanks to all that jetsetting to attend award shows with BFF Taylor Swift and pose for hot magazine covers. And through the years, the singer and actress has picked up a trick or two about dressing warm for the frigid temperatures inside the plane, always being ready for the paparazzi, and packing a practical but gorgeous bag with all the essentials. Her outfits are stylish and comfortable and provide plenty of airport and street style inspiration. See all the times Selena's style was ready to fly away, then check out her all-time sexiest Instagram pictures.
These Game of Thrones-Inspired Valentine's Day Cards Are a Special Kind of Romantic
Let's be clear: the Valentine's Day gift you want is probably a moved-up Game of Thrones season seven premiere date, some footage of the next season, or some pictures. That's not happening, but we have the next sweetest thing for the holiday: specially created Valentine's Day cards that we can share exclusively. Inspired by the show and Game of Thrones gifts, HBO has put together these cards that manage to be hilarious, sweet, and perfect for the fan that you love. Chuckle at them, and then print them out for your savage valentine.
4 Bits of Intel We've Got About the Final Season of Orphan Black
Last Summer, we received word about Orphan Black that was good news and bad news all rolled into one. While we were excited to learn that the show had been renewed for a fifth season, we were pretty bummed out to learn that this next season would also be the last. Luckily for us, Tatiana Maslany has already won her much-deserved Emmy, so we don't have to place too much pressure on this last hurrah. But hey, we have a feeling you'll want to know what you're in for as the show comes to a close. Here's what we've uncovered thus far.
1. The New Cast
In addition to all the faces we know and love, a few new ones will pop up in season five. Variety has reported five major additions: Elyse Levesque (Detective Engers), Andrew Moodie (Mr. Frontenac, a consultant to Rachel), Simu Liu (Kira's new teacher Mr. Mitchell), Jenessa Grant (Mud), and Stephen McHattie (Neolution founder P.T. Westmoreland).
2. The Story
At the end of season four, pretty much every clone's life is hanging in the balance. Cosima is dying from the uncured clone illness, but at least she's with Delphine. Sarah is wounded and stranded on the island. Things are pretty dire, and the official Twitter account has teased a "Final Trip" for the season ahead. It's safe to say everything's going to unravel at once.
3. The Production
The final season began production in early October 2016. As far as we know, work on the new season has continued up until now, but we imagine it's only a short matter of time before production wraps. Then we'll all really be crying.
4. The Premiere Date
In February, BBC announced that the final episodes would begin airing on June 10. The real question is, are you ready?
This Is the Best Moment From the Super Bowl - And It Had Nothing to Do With Football
You don't have to be a football fan to appreciate this tear-jerking moment that came out of the Super Bowl.
When Lady Gaga was performing her epic half-time performance, a 10-year-old boy with Down syndrome was beyond excited to dance along. Nico's dad captured his son's priceless reaction as the superstar sang some of her greatest hits. The meaning behind his son dancing to inclusive lyrics including, "I'm beautiful in my way 'cause God makes no mistakes. I'm on the right track, baby I was born this way," wasn't lost on this proud dad.
David Perry shared the adorable clip on Twitter along with a simple but impactful message
: "He was born his way too."
This Is Us Obsessing Over Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore's Sweet Friendship
Milo Ventimiglia and Mandy Moore's characters on This Is Us constantly make us swoon, but their offscreen friendship is just as sweet. Whether they're sharing behind-the-scenes pictures from set or they're hitting the red carpet together, the costars have shared a number of cute moments together over the past few months - and we're sure there will be even more appearances to come since the show has been renewed for two more seasons. Even though we know they're not a couple, we still can't get over their undeniable chemistry.
There's No Doubt These Are the Best Dressed Bridesmaids of the Year
Last year, we saw an abundance of unique wedding dress trends. Some brides brought a whole wardrobe full of gowns to wear throughout their special weekend. But not to be forgotten were the bridesmaids. It seems like lately, women about to tie the knot are just as devoted to dressing their gang of girls.
From silk slips to bright floral maxis, sequined skirts, and even jet-black gowns, 2016 gave way to some very chic bridesmaids outfits. You might consider some of the ideas below over the top, but we think they're bold and full of personality. Read on for ways to make your ladies in waiting feel like the stars of the show. You're all about to walk down the aisle, after all.
43 Pictures That Will Make You Appreciate Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson's 3-Decades-Long Relationship
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson are among the small group of celebrity couples whose relationships have really stood the test of time with nearly 30 years of marriage under their belts. Much like longtime loves Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell, Tom and Rita seem to have kept the spark alive all these years, sharing smiley red carpet moments with plenty of sweet PDA. Look through to see Tom and Rita's best snaps since 1989.
This Is the Actual Definition of a Good Night's Sleep
How well you sleep is just as important as how much. Our friends at Shape Magazine want to know if your sleeping habits pass this test.
You've heard it time and time again: Getting enough sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. But when it comes to catching zzz's, it's not just about the number of hours you log in bed. The quality of your sleep is just as important as the quantity-meaning getting your requisite eight hours isn't going to matter if it wasn't "good" sleep. (This is a common problem. One-third of women are not getting enough quality shut-eye, according to recent data from the CDC.) But what exactly does "good" sleep mean? Science has answers: The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) recently released a report, published in Sleep Health, which laid out the key indicators of quality shut-eye.
"In the past, we defined sleep by its negative outcomes including sleep dissatisfaction, which were useful for identifying underlying pathology," said contributor Maurice Ohayon, M.D, Ph.D., director of the Stanford Sleep Epidemiology Research Center, in a press release. "Clearly this is not the whole story. With this initiative, we are now on a better course towards defining sleep health."
Here, the four key components of a "good night's sleep" as determined by the sleep experts.
1. You don't work in your bed
Thanks to portable tablets and phones, our beds have become de facto couches. But Netflix binges and texting your best friend don't count as restorative rest for your body. The NSF recommends that at least 85 percent of the total time you spend in your bed is actually spent snoozing. If you absolutely must use your phone in bed, try these 3 tricks to use tech in bed an still sleep soundly.
2. You fall asleep in 30 minutes or less
Nearly one-third of people take longer than half an hour to fall asleep each night, according to the NSF's annual Sleep in America poll. Taking this long to conk out is one of the hallmarks of insomnia and other sleep disorders, they explain. Lots of things can affect your ability to fall asleep-anxiety, depression, exercising too close to bedtime, not getting enough daytime exercise, sunlight, and eating junk food in the evening, just to name a few. So it's important to figure out what's keeping you up and fix it. (Check out these six sneaky things that might be keeping you awake.)
3. You wake up no more than once per night
Nothing is more frustrating than going to bed on time and blissfully drifting off to dreamland... only to be awakened in the middle of the night. Some disturbances you have no control over, such as a baby crying or your cat sitting on your pillow. But if you're waking up for no apparent reason or are easily awakened by normal noises more than once per night, it's a sign your sleep life is hurting.
4. You don't wake up for more than 20 minutes during the night
When you do wake up in the middle of the night, how long do you stay awake? Some people can slip right back into sleep after making sure that startling noise wasn't a burglar, but others are tossing and turning for the rest of the night. If it takes you more than 20 minutes to go back to sleep, whatever the reason you woke up, your quality of sleep is bound to suffer. Try these tips to fall back to sleep quickly. And if those don't work, check out this list of the best natural sleep aids.
Check out more great stories from Shape:
This Is the Actual Definition of a Good Night's Sleep
How well you sleep is just as important as how much. Our friends at Shape Magazine want to know if your sleeping habits pass this test.
You've heard it time and time again: Getting enough sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. But when it comes to catching zzz's, it's not just about the number of hours you log in bed. The quality of your sleep is just as important as the quantity-meaning getting your requisite eight hours isn't going to matter if it wasn't "good" sleep. (This is a common problem. One-third of women are not getting enough quality shut-eye, according to recent data from the CDC.) But what exactly does "good" sleep mean? Science has answers: The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) recently released a report, published in Sleep Health, which laid out the key indicators of quality shut-eye.
"In the past, we defined sleep by its negative outcomes including sleep dissatisfaction, which were useful for identifying underlying pathology," said contributor Maurice Ohayon, M.D, Ph.D., director of the Stanford Sleep Epidemiology Research Center, in a press release. "Clearly this is not the whole story. With this initiative, we are now on a better course towards defining sleep health."
Here, the four key components of a "good night's sleep" as determined by the sleep experts.
1. You don't work in your bed
Thanks to portable tablets and phones, our beds have become de facto couches. But Netflix binges and texting your best friend don't count as restorative rest for your body. The NSF recommends that at least 85 percent of the total time you spend in your bed is actually spent snoozing. If you absolutely must use your phone in bed, try these 3 tricks to use tech in bed an still sleep soundly.
2. You fall asleep in 30 minutes or less
Nearly one-third of people take longer than half an hour to fall asleep each night, according to the NSF's annual Sleep in America poll. Taking this long to conk out is one of the hallmarks of insomnia and other sleep disorders, they explain. Lots of things can affect your ability to fall asleep-anxiety, depression, exercising too close to bedtime, not getting enough daytime exercise, sunlight, and eating junk food in the evening, just to name a few. So it's important to figure out what's keeping you up and fix it. (Check out these six sneaky things that might be keeping you awake.)
3. You wake up no more than once per night
Nothing is more frustrating than going to bed on time and blissfully drifting off to dreamland... only to be awakened in the middle of the night. Some disturbances you have no control over, such as a baby crying or your cat sitting on your pillow. But if you're waking up for no apparent reason or are easily awakened by normal noises more than once per night, it's a sign your sleep life is hurting.
4. You don't wake up for more than 20 minutes during the night
When you do wake up in the middle of the night, how long do you stay awake? Some people can slip right back into sleep after making sure that startling noise wasn't a burglar, but others are tossing and turning for the rest of the night. If it takes you more than 20 minutes to go back to sleep, whatever the reason you woke up, your quality of sleep is bound to suffer. Try these tips to fall back to sleep quickly. And if those don't work, check out this list of the best natural sleep aids.
Check out more great stories from Shape:
9 Grammys Upsets Heard Round the World
The Grammy Awards are less than a week away! Aside from the fact that the glorious Adele is performing at the ceremony, there are also some incredibly talented nominees this year. As you emotionally prepare yourself for which stars will win big, let's not forget those who lost out. Take a look at the biggest upsets over the years, including a few you may have forgotten about!
Nickelodeon's Newest Princess Is a Biracial Knight - and a Total Badass
If you've been conflicted about your child's obsession with princesses, Nickelodeon might have just solved your problem. On Feb. 6, Nella the Princess Knight debuted on Nick Jr. Not only does Nella have a tiara and a dress like the rest of the princesses, but she's also a knight who defends her kingdom.
In addition to not adhering to traditional princess-fueled gender norms, Nella is biracial. Her father is black and her mother is white. According to The New York Times, the decision was influenced by research that indicated most children under 12 would be nonwhite by 2020 and that 17 percent are already biracial.
It's important that children see themselves reflected in the TV shows and movies they watch, and Nella is a great step in the right direction. Although Disney has been creating more princesses of color in recent years, biracial princesses haven't come into the Disney world yet. Nickelodeon decided to represent a child whose looks its audience would identify with and is going against stereotypes with this new character. Nella can wear a sparkly tiara and also be a brave defender of justice.
We're totally for this new trend of badass princesses and hope to see more diverse representations of girls going forward! See more of Nella in the video above.
These Lego Valentines Are the Cutest on the "Block"
Celebrating Valentine's Day as a little kid is perhaps more fun than when you're an adult, simply because of the adorable card exchanges in school. If your little Lego-lover needs an idea for their valentines this year, look no further than these awesome Lego-themed cards that can be printed out and slipped into each classmate's heart-shaped mailbox. They can be sent as is, or a Lego surprise - like a minifigure or a bag of Lego pieces - can be attached.
Read through for 18 Lego valentines that were "built" for your child!
Get a Better Workout With These Partner Exercises
Working out with a buddy can definitely be more fun and inspirational than exercising solo, and with partner exercises, you can also get a better workout. These exercises work your muscles differently and more efficiently, so try them the next time you're with a fitness friend.
Get a Better Workout With These Partner Exercises
Working out with a buddy can definitely be more fun and inspirational than exercising solo, and with partner exercises, you can also get a better workout. These exercises work your muscles differently and more efficiently, so try them the next time you're with a fitness friend.
10 Limited-Edition Valentine's Day Foods You've Got to Try While You Can
Valentine's Day is nothing without treating yourself (or others), and there are plenty of limited-edition foods you'll want to try while you can this year. Some of your favorite brands, like Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, and M&M's, have introduced new items for Valentine's Day that are way better than your average box of chocolates. Read on to learn about the best - and tastiest - Valentine's Day offerings out there, and grab your must-have picks while you can.
Manulife to stop testing for nicotine for life insurance policies up to $1M
Manulife is removing the need for nicotine testing for some of its life insurance applicants as part of its efforts to streamline the process.
Manulife to stop testing for nicotine for life insurance policies up to $1M
Manulife is removing the need for nicotine testing for some of its life insurance applicants as part of its efforts to streamline the process.
50+ Ideas For Homemade Edible Valentine's Day Gifts
If you or your loved one would prefer receiving something sweet for Valentine's Day, then take a look at these edible gift recipes. From the easiest-ever chocolate-covered strawberries to conversation heart cutout cookies, one of these decadent desserts is sure to catch your eye. Best part is, they are way less pricey than mail-order chocolates or Edible Arrangements.
How to Ditch That Pudgy Pooch
Eating 80/20 and hitting the gym have helped you reach your weight-loss goal, but you're still trying to get rid of that little extra pooch around your midsection. Here are three things you can do every week to help you achieve a trimmer belly.
When Eating
Take an honest look at your diet and your bathroom schedule. Your belly might not be caused by fat but by air trapped in your digestive system. If you're not getting enough fiber (you need 25 to 30 grams a day), constipation can cause bloating. On the other hand, overdoing it on fiber or eating too many gas-producing foods like broccoli, apples, or beans can also make your belly pooch a bit. Thankfully, there are also foods you can eat, like blueberries, that are proven to diminish belly fat, so sip on this flat-belly smoothie or crunch on this flat-belly salad to keep you regular and help you debloat.
When Doing Cardio
Studies show that including interval training in your cardio sessions is proven to diminish belly fat. If you find that you normally stick to a consistent pace when running, biking, or swimming, mix it up by adding 10- to 60-second fast-paced or sprinting intervals - here's a 45-minute treadmill workout that does just that. High Intensity Interval Training (aka HIIT) works on the same principle as intervals, where you push to your maximum training for a period of time and follow up with a shorter rest period. Give this type of workout a try with our full-body 10-Minute HIIT Workout.
When Strength Training
Basic crunches can help tone your abs, but they only target certain abdominal muscles. Incorporate full-body exercises like variations of plank or core moves using a ball. Simply balancing on one leg on a BOSU will target your core too. Also try using different types of equipment - this 10-minute ab video features a small hand towel to sculpt your core.
How to Ditch That Pudgy Pooch
Eating 80/20 and hitting the gym have helped you reach your weight-loss goal, but you're still trying to get rid of that little extra pooch around your midsection. Here are three things you can do every week to help you achieve a trimmer belly.
When Eating
Take an honest look at your diet and your bathroom schedule. Your belly might not be caused by fat but by air trapped in your digestive system. If you're not getting enough fiber (you need 25 to 30 grams a day), constipation can cause bloating. On the other hand, overdoing it on fiber or eating too many gas-producing foods like broccoli, apples, or beans can also make your belly pooch a bit. Thankfully, there are also foods you can eat, like blueberries, that are proven to diminish belly fat, so sip on this flat-belly smoothie or crunch on this flat-belly salad to keep you regular and help you debloat.
When Doing Cardio
Studies show that including interval training in your cardio sessions is proven to diminish belly fat. If you find that you normally stick to a consistent pace when running, biking, or swimming, mix it up by adding 10- to 60-second fast-paced or sprinting intervals - here's a 45-minute treadmill workout that does just that. High Intensity Interval Training (aka HIIT) works on the same principle as intervals, where you push to your maximum training for a period of time and follow up with a shorter rest period. Give this type of workout a try with our full-body 10-Minute HIIT Workout.
When Strength Training
Basic crunches can help tone your abs, but they only target certain abdominal muscles. Incorporate full-body exercises like variations of plank or core moves using a ball. Simply balancing on one leg on a BOSU will target your core too. Also try using different types of equipment - this 10-minute ab video features a small hand towel to sculpt your core.
Record total of 343 fentanyl deaths last year prompts Alberta government action
Facing a grim and growing death toll from fentanyl overdoses — a total of 343 last year — the Alberta government moved Tuesday to make antidote kits available to all first-responders and to the general public without prescriptions.
Record total of 343 fentanyl deaths last year prompts Alberta government action
Facing a grim and growing death toll from fentanyl overdoses — a total of 343 last year — the Alberta government moved Tuesday to make antidote kits available to all first-responders and to the general public without prescriptions.
20 Valentine's Day Cards That Are Cool Enough For Your Tween
Trying to figure out "what's cool" in the tween world can be beyond difficult, especially as trends come and go before parents even fully understand what they are and why they're trendy. If you're looking for a cool way to get your tween involved in spreading the love this Valentine's Day, we've rounded up a bunch of adorable cards that they'll actually want to give their friends, and you'll totally be the hippest mom on the block for suggesting them (until the next trendy thing comes along, at least).
Scroll through for 20 Valentine's Day cards that are cool enough for your tween.
Found: The Perfect Lingerie For Your Zodiac Sign
Whether you read your horoscope every morning or you can barely remember your own zodiac sign, your signature traits can't be ignored. You were born with them. And right around Valentine's Day, when you're thinking about love and the lingerie you might want to wear in the bedroom, there's no better time to pay attention to the cosmos.
So, if you're into strappy little skivvies that border on naughty or conservative lace babydolls, the guide ahead will lend you a few personal pointers when you're shopping for bras and panties. Keep scrolling to read up on your power colors and cuts.
Tom Brady's Son Steals the Spotlight From His Dad at the Patriots' Victory Parade
Tom Brady made history on Sunday when he racked up his fifth Super Bowl win with the New England Patriots, and on Tuesday, the team returned home to Boston, where they celebrated at their victory parade. Of course, the spectacle was intended to celebrate Tom and the Patriots, but it was his son, Benjamin (whom he shares with wife Gisele Bündchen), who ended up stealing the show with his cute antics. While riding on one of the duck boats, Benjamin busted out his best dance moves and hit the dab as his dad waved to nearby fans. Benjamin may only be 7 years old, but he's already breaking hearts.
This Is Us Wedding Pictures Are Way, Way Too Much to Handle
If a regular, run-of-the-mill episode of This Is Us makes you break down in throaty sobs, imagine what a wedding episode is going to do. NBC has released pictures from the Feb. 7 episode, titled "I Call Marriage," and you guessed it, it's a flashback to Rebecca and Jack's wedding day. Surprisingly, the synopsis itself doesn't say anything about the wedding, just that "Rebecca receives an amazing work opportunity." Is her opportunity . . . to marry Jack? We'll need some more information. Until then, enjoy these.
Selena Gomez's Sexiest Outfits Through the Years All Have 1 Thing in Common
We know, we know, there's not an outfit Selena can't make sexy by simply putting it on and oozing confidence - honestly she could probably wear old sweatpants and a holey t-shirt and we'd think it's the sexiest thing on Earth because it's all about her attitude. But, you can't deny that through the years, there have been a few looks that have stood out as her most sensual.
For example, there was the Calvin Klein shimmery blue gown she wore to the Grammy Awards in 2016 - those cutouts, that low back! - and the black leather dress she had on for the red carpet of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in 2015, which showed she has legs for days. Want more? Scroll ahead to check out all of Selena's sexy looks.
41 Things That Prove Tech in the '90s Was Bomb.com
Shame on the people who make fun of '90s tech (it's not like we've ever done that before - ever). Seriously, who could question how great the Discman or AIM was? For the ultimate tech throwback, take a look at the gadgets, games, and software that we loved most from the decade that brought us Spice Girls and Super Nintendo.
Hopscotch Cardio Is Fun AND Fat-Burning
Remember doing hopscotch on the playground? This cardio move is just like that - and it'll help you break a sweat and burn up fat!
Get your heart pumping and work those legs while keeping your core stable and controlled.
- Bouncing on the balls of your feet, jump your feet wide.
- Hop back to center on your left foot, bringing your right knee up, then jump your feet wide.
- Hop back to center on your right foot, bringing your left knee up.
- Continue alternating in this pattern for 60 seconds.
Hopscotch Cardio Is Fun AND Fat-Burning
Remember doing hopscotch on the playground? This cardio move is just like that - and it'll help you break a sweat and burn up fat!
Get your heart pumping and work those legs while keeping your core stable and controlled.
- Bouncing on the balls of your feet, jump your feet wide.
- Hop back to center on your left foot, bringing your right knee up, then jump your feet wide.
- Hop back to center on your right foot, bringing your left knee up.
- Continue alternating in this pattern for 60 seconds.
These Are, Hands Down, Jennifer and Justin's Sweetest Moments
Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux got engaged in August 2012, and they tied the knot in 2015 in a top-secret wedding in LA. The cute couple first met on the set of Wanderlust back in 2010, and since then, they've shared tons of sweet moments, from red carpet cuteness to steamy beach PDA. To celebrate the happy couple, look back at Jennifer and Justin's most adorable moments together!
British Prime Minster Theresa May Has a Style Mantra For All Power Women
New British Prime Minister Theresa May is not reserved when it comes to style. As the second woman to hold the post in parliament, her bold wardrobe helps her distinguish pride and confidence, and she doesn't shy away from statement heels or designer pieces that make her happy. "I like clothes and I like shoes. One of the challenges for women in the workplace is to be ourselves, and I say you can be clever and like clothes. You can have a career and like clothes," she said when she spoke at the Women in the World Summit last year.
Even so, her followers caused a stir when Theresa stepped out for the Pride of Britain Awards in a fit-and-flare that stopped above the knee. "Put your knees away," one Twitter user commented. But we'd argue that Theresa's satin piece is both sophisticated and fun. Like so many other power women - some of whom hold office - Theresa's outfits are modest, yet full of personality.
Her famous leopard pumps, which she wore when she was sworn in as leader, didn't feel too playful when paired with a tailored colorblock coat. Instead, they're a daring step in the right direction and a call to all ladies in the spotlight to wear what they like. Read on to find 39 memorable pieces Theresa May flaunted while on the job, all of which confirm that a loud print, cut, or color can be business appropriate too.
All the Ladies Who Have Been Romanced by Brad Pitt
Before Brad Pitt's divorce from Angelina Jolie, the father of six seemed to have left his past as one of Hollywood's hottest bachelors behind him. Throughout the late '80s and '90s, Brad pretty much changed his girlfriend as often as he changed his famous hair and was linked to nearly all of his famous costars. Whether or not Brad actually had a serious relationship with these leading ladies is something only he could tell you, but regardless, take a look inside the Allied actor's little black book to see who has been lucky enough to have (supposedly) fallen under his spell.
If You Have a Baby or Toddler, You'll Want to Know This Genius Packing Hack
Traveling as a family can be a logistical nightmare for many reasons, starting with packing up all your stuff long before your journey even begins. Babies require a lot of bulky necessities like bottles and diapers, and toddlers inevitably want to bring a few favorite toys along. Add that to the piles of small-people clothes in your suitcase and you're left with approximately two square inches of space to cram your own belongings into.
This means that your trunk will be stuffed to the max or, if you're flying, you'll probably have to pay extra to check at least one suitcase and you might even get hit with an overweight luggage fee. Personally, I'd much prefer to buy the kids a few junky souvenirs (or myself a few more cocktails!) than shell out $25 on checked bags, which is where this hack comes in handy.
Many airlines check baby items like pack'n'plays and car seats for free. No one has even looked twice at my pack'n'play or the car seat in its travel-safe bag before putting it on the conveyor belt. So why not take advantage of that?
Depending on the type of baby gear you have, there should be some empty space in the pack'n'play. I shove diapers, extra wipes, books I wouldn't otherwise bring, and last-minute additions between the bars in mine (a Baby Bjorn Travel Crib). As for the car seat, I stick to items that can attach to the straps like the velcro of a Sleep Sheep or the snap on a pool floatie so they stay secure inside the protective travel bag.
Obviously, check your airline's baggage policies first, but hey, maybe you can fit that extra pair of shoes after all!
These Valentine's Day Bento Boxes Will Be the Cutest Things You See All Day
While other food-lovers are baking sweet treats like cupcakes and salted caramel chocolate tarts this Valentine's Day, others are taking a more original approach to their V-day eats. Instagram account kidfirstbento creates incredible works of art using rice and has created adorable Valentine's plates.
The photos of the account's masterpieces include pun-filled captions perfect to give to your valentine. On a plate with a rice-made Yoda, the title says, "Yoda one for me," and a cute photo of a rice-made minion from Despicable Me says, "You're one in a minion."
These food masterpieces include an incredible amount of detail and the smaller pieces are placed on the plate with tweezers. Unfortunately, you'll have to go to Indonesia to get one of these cute boxes, but the company posts videos of their process so you can attempt to make these cute lunches at home.
10 Snaps That Will Make You Want Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling Back Together
Source: INFphoto.com
It's been more than 12 years since The Notebook made you feel all kinds of emotions, including those about Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling as a couple. They were a real-life duo for two years before their split in 2007, and they've both since moved on with multiple matches. Rachel was serious with Michael Sheen and rumored to have dated her True Detective costar Taylor Kitsch, while Ryan and his current leading lady, Eva Mendes, share two daughters together, Esmeralda and Amada. Ryan and Rachel might be over, but in honor of the their epic love in The Notebook, we're looking back at 10 sweet snaps that will really make you want them back.
Source: Getty/ Jeff Kravitz
Source: Getty / Jeff Kravitz
Source: INFphoto.com
Source: Getty / Ray Mickshaw
Source: Getty / J. Merritt
Source: Getty / J. Vespa
Source: INFphoto.com
Source: Getty / S. Granitz
Source: Getty / Carley Margolis
This Child Ringing a Special Bell After Finishing 1 Year of Chemo Will Make Your Heart Burst
After a long year filled with hospital visits to combat cancer, a 6-year-old dressed as a superhero celebrated his sweet victory in the most adorable way possible.
At just 4 months old, Jimmy Spagnolo developed an inoperable brain tumor which was only treatable with chemotherapy, according to TODAY. Jimmy has been undergoing rounds of chemo to decrease the tumor's size, and Feb. 2 marked the end of his last round of chemo after a long year of treatments.
Jimmy celebrated the momentous milestone just as any other 6-year-old would: by aptly wearing a Superman shirt and doing a cute-as-can-be happy dance. He also got to ring a bell on the wall at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh to commemorate his exciting achievement.
With his family and hospital employees cheering in the background, Jimmy rings the bell like we've never seen anyone ring a bell before. He dances and jumps up and down, even lifting up his shirt to pat his belly at one point. "Our victory of ringing a bell signifies the ending of a year of chemotherapy (hopefully the last one ever)!!!!" Jimmy's mom, Lacie Spagnolo, wrote on her blog.
Hospital officials shared the sweet video on the official CHP Facebook page while also explaining the magnitude of the bell-ringing tradition. "The bell signifies so many emotions - it can signify the sound of tears, strength, fear, courage, doubt, satisfaction, relief and happiness all coming through as one as people around them cheer this accomplishment," the post noted. "The sound of that bell resonates in more ways than one. The emotion in the room is just unbelievable."
Watching a child go through cancer at a young age is never easy, but watching them make it through the process with a smile on their face is beyond gratifying. Congrats to the Spagnolo family and their little Superman!
A Gentle Reminder That Jake Gyllenhaal Is Also an Incredibly Talented Singer
Jake Gyllenhaal is one incredibly talented young man. Sure, he's a great actor, but he's also got some killer pipes. On Tuesday, he gave us a quick glimpse of his upcoming stint in the revival of the Broadway musical, Sunday in the Park With George, when he posted a clip of him singing "Finishing the Hat," directed by True Detective's Cary Fukunaga. Not only does he look incredibly attractive as he waltzes down the staircase during the number, but his voice sounds like a straight-up Disney prince. Needless to say, we're already booking our tickets to NYC to see the show. See you at the stage door, Jake!
To Those Who Loved La La Land but Hated the Ending, Read This
La La Land is taking award season by storm, racking up tons of Oscar nominations this week, in addition to being the most romantic movie in years. But there seems to be a general consensus from even the most fervent of fans: the ending. (Obviously, spoilers ahead.)
At the end of the movie, Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone's characters don't end up together, a fact that, anecdotally, has caused pretty much everyone I know who's seen it to say something along the lines of: "I saw La La Land. I loved it. But the ending: WTF?!" It's a seemingly universal sentiment, and while there will probably never be a sequel to show the two leads getting back together, director Damien Chazelle's explanation might make you feel better - or at least might make you understand it more.
Speaking at TIFF back when the movie first premiered in September 2016, Chazelle was asked why Stone and Gosling's characters don't end up together. Here's what he had to say:
"Real life doesn't always live up to the dreams in the movies, but that, in a way, is a great subject for a movie. And that's kind of what drove me with this: making a movie that was definitely informed by these idealized visions that you get from the old Hollywood musicals, but one in which hopefully you have to question a little bit whether real life lives up and what the give and take has to be.
"I find movies where the lovers wind up not together more romantic."These are characters who - and every character in the movie to a certain extent - has to negotiate the balance between dreams and reality, as we all do. To me, it's trying to say something about that. I find movies where the lovers wind up not together more romantic. When they wind up together, it's like you don't know what's going to happen after the movie . . . but these two will always be a perfect pair for me."
Everything We Know About Fifty Shades Darker
It feels like just yesterday that we were fanning ourselves over the sexy spectacle of Fifty Shades of Grey, but the sequel is mere days away! We looked at every one of the Fifty Shades Darker set pictures, and we've been following all the details. While you eagerly await the film's arrival, you can find out everything we already know about the sexy sequels now, including the MPAA's rating.
Jane the Virgin's Showrunner Explains the Emotional Reason Behind That Shocking Death
Major spoilers ahead for Monday night's episode of Jane the Virgin.
Monday night's heartbreaking episode of Jane the Virgin sent everyone on #TeamMichael into a tear-stained tailspin when the show's writers finally did what they've been hinting at for months: they killed off Michael Cordero. Since plenty of fans (and the cast) are understandably still reeling from the devastating turn of events, showrunner Jennie Urman took to Tumblr to explain why Michael (played by Brett Dier) had to go. The heartfelt letter is addressed directly to Jane the Virgin's many fans and confirms that unlike telenovela characters of yore, Michael will not be coming back from the dead.
"It was a decision made very early on, when I thought about our story as a whole," she wrote. "And even in season one, I knew it would be a hard thing to actually do, which is why there was a line (which many of you noticed) about how Michael would never stop loving Jane. And the Narrator confirmed, 'For as long as Michael lived, until he drew his very last breath, he never did.' Honestly, I put that line into the script at the last minute to hold our feet to the fire, to make sure we went through with it. Because even back then, the writers could all see the magic of Jane and Michael together. Not to mention Rogelio and Michael!"
Although Michael's death was a painful scene to endure (made even more so when Jane is seen sobbing afterwards - oof), it must be said that it was still done well. At the very least, it's a comfort to know that the minds behind Jane and Michael's romance did not take such a plot twist lightly. Read Urman's letter in full below:
This Photo of a Dying Star Will Make You Feel Utterly Small
If you're in the mood to feel particularly small and remember how big the universe is, look no further than a recent photo from NASA's Hubble telescope. The telescope recently captured an image of a dying star, and it's so damn cool.
Known as a Calabash Nebula, this star's death is an example of what happens to "low-mass stars" (like our sun) when they die. This particular phenomenon is also known as a "Rotten Egg Nebula," because it contains so much sulfur that it would smell like a rotten egg if we were near it.
This photo is not only incredible but also something that is barely ever photographed because it happens so fast. But it's not NASA's first time capturing something like this, as the Hubble telescope previously photographed the death of another star, 20,000 light years away.
Thank you, NASA, for reminding us just how small we really are in the grand scheme of the entire universe.
Merriam-Webster Just Roasted the White House After It Repeatedly Misspelled the Same Word
Pull up a chair, because Merriam-Webster is about to demonstrate yet another lesson in the art of throwing shade. After correcting grammatical errors from both Betsy DeVos and Donald Trump, the dictionary took to Twitter yet again to mock the White House's recent repeated misspelling of "attacker."
On Feb. 6, the White House released a list of 78 terror attacks as an attempt to criticize the media for allegedly underreporting them. In the list, the White House misspelled the word "attacker" 27 times to read "attaker."
In response, Merriam-Webster retweeted a picture of the obvious spelling error. It didn't end there: after someone asked the dictionary to define "attaker," Merriam-Webster unleashed some low-key shade in a tweet, shown below.
Reminder that our app has voice search, so you can look a word up even if you're not sure how it's spelled. https://t.co/gAH5JjwU32 https://t.co/oyxk2zwpWO
- Merriam-Webster (@MerriamWebster) February 7, 2017
Well-played, Merriam-Webster, well-played.
Follow Your Favorite Bloggers Through Fashion Week, 1 Snapchat at a Time
Sure, bloggers may give you outfit ideas and behind-the-scenes shots via Instagram and blog posts, but what do they really do with their day? Better yet, what stops do they make during Fashion Week? You're about to find out - once you add said ladies on Snapchat. Find the usernames of all your favorite fashion gals ahead and watch them as they jet-set across the world, attend shows and events, and even test out silly filters. And if your friend list is still looking a little thin? Don't fret; there are plenty of models to follow as well, giving you enough stories to procrastinate with all afternoon long.
These Moms Breastfeeding For the First Time Prove the Beauty in This Instant Connection
For many moms who decide to breastfeed, that first latch (hopefully) comes shortly after their little one's birth. Whether they opt to let their little one breast crawl - when the baby is placed on mom's stomach and uses the scent of the nipple to find their way to her breast to begin breastfeeding at just minutes or hours old - or attempt to nurse with help from experienced hospital staff, the moment can be mesmerizing. Although they may not realize it at the time, parents who have birth photographers capture their deliveries may also have their first time nursing documented, as these new moms did.
Breastfeeding can be a difficult journey, but these breathtaking photos of moms nursing for the first time showcase the instant and stunning connection that forms between mom and baby.
See Now, Buy Now Is Back in Full Force For Fashion Week
Last Fashion Week, one of the biggest conversation starters was the see now, buy now show. Brands and designers like Tom Ford, Michael Kors, Thakoon, and Burberry debuted shoppable runway looks and shook up the industry. Instead of waiting an entire season to buy that It bag or top that caught your eye, customers could now buy it minutes after they saw it on the catwalk.
The same is true of this season's collections. Rebecca Minkoff already released her Spring '17 line during a show in LA (in lieu of a show at New York Fashion Week) while H&M has promised to follow suit in March at Paris Fashion Week. Read on to see who's making their collections shoppable in real time so far. Then, stay tuned for more shoppable items from your favorite fashion houses all Fashion Month long.
Kai Parker Is Returning to The Vampire Diaries and We Have a Lot of Questions
It's official: Kai Parker is returning to The Vampire Diaries, and we couldn't be more excited. Even though we totally called his return a few months ago, the show officially announced the news when they released stills of him in the upcoming episode, "The Lies Are Going to Catch Up With You." Aside from looking devilishly handsome, we can't help but notice what he's wearing. While it might look like a simple black suit at first glance, it's actually the exact same outfit he died in from season six. Needless to say, our heads are already running with theories.
Let's state the obvious here. He's at the grill, which means he's actually in Mystic Falls. Perhaps, when Matt rang the Maxwell Bell, he was able to slip out of Hell when Cade did - because we all know that's where he's been all this time. Chris Wood, the actor who plays Kai, even teased that theory a few months ago when a fan asked what Kai is probably up to right now.
So, the next question is, what exactly is he there for? Our best guess is redemption. This whole season has been about forgiveness and making up for your sins, so we can only assume that Kai is trying to find peace now that he realizes how terrible Hell is. Hey, he did become less of a psychopath when he merged with Luke, so it's not completely off the table. And what better way to find peace than by righting all the wrongs he's made? The episode's synopsis says that Alaric and Damon will come face to face with an old enemy, and who would they hate more than the person that took away their true loves? Maybe Kai's hoping to make amends by reversing that pesky sleeping curse on Elena.
Of course, if he does reverse the sleeping curse, we can't help but wonder if this means Bonnie and Kai will reunite. Because, let's be real, we secretly shipped them all throughout season six. Plus, Bonnie is single now, and even though they had their differences in the past, they've always had some undeniable chemistry. And hey, if Caroline and Elena are willing to forgive Stefan and Damon for all the bad things they've done (just in this season alone), why can't these two have a fresh start, too? What ever happens, we're just happy to see Kai's beautiful face again.
Girl Took Hilarious Timed Notes on Her Dad's Emotions Throughout the Super Bowl
She took notes of her dad's reaction throughout the Super Bowl.
Emotions were running high in houses across the nation during the Super Bowl no matter what team was being supported, but thanks to one hilarious little girl, we have minute-by-minute details of her father's reactions throughout the big game. Although things may not have seemed that exciting from the inside of their living room, her commentary has made it seem like the most interesting behavior study ever conducted.
"Dad screams, 8:49," says the first line written after her initial report about the halftime show. "Dad screams, 8:51. Dad screams again, 8:51."
The girl's riveting commentary begins to get even more interesting at 9:22 - after a "Weird commercial" at 8:56 - when her dad "fought with dog" (over what, we'll never know), which was followed by a roller coaster of emotions from then until the end of the game. "Dad does his evil laugh, 9:23. Dad screams, 9:29. Dad is the happiest person, 9:49. Overtime, 9:50. Dad cries, 10:30."
Although we're assuming her dad is a Patriots fan who cried happy tears over the team's win, even the commenters on the Reddit thread where the photo was posted are confused. However, that small detail doesn't affect how hysterical her notes are in the least - this girl totally has a future in (comedic) behavioral psychology.
Sweet Success: 10 Tips For Baking the Perfect Macaron
With their vibrant colors and lacy frills, dainty, crisp-crusted French macarons are the perfect Valentine's Day baking project. But these lovely little delicacies are temperamental enough to stump even the most accomplished chefs. Even if you follow a detailed recipe down to the letter, a batch of macarons can go very wrong very quickly. Thanks to humidity, an unreliable oven temperature gauge, or an overly enthusiastic stirring hand, you may find yourself facing macaron-ageddon rather than baking bliss. But before you throw in the tea towel, we've assembled a few tips to solve your sugary conundrums.
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