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 8 mai 2017
1 Transgender Woman Explains Why She Feels Like a Superhero
When I was younger, I lived vicariously through the superheroes and heroines who appeared on TV screens or in comic books. Wonder Woman, Superman, Spider Man, the Power Rangers, you name them. I remember fantasizing over what it would be like to have supernatural powers and superhuman strength. No matter how dangerous situations became, there was never a threat big enough to deter these heroic figures from doing the right thing at all costs. As if their courage wasn't enough, they always held a certain je ne sais quoi I deeply admired.
However, despite their incredible abilities, they hid who they truly were and instead assumed the identities of ordinary people. I always wondered if they would trade in their gifts if given the opportunity. One thing every hero and heroine had in common is that none of them ever chose the life. It was their destiny. Who would have known that, years later, as a transgender woman of color, I would become a heroine for revealing my true identity and standing my ground in spaces that didn't readily welcome me. What I do requires hero-like courage: to hold space in a society that oppresses women, people of color, gays, and lesbians and threatens to erase anyone who falls outside of a cisgender-heteronormative identity.
Imagine what it would be like if our favorite superheroes revealed their true identities to the world. Not only would they become more vulnerable to the villains who plot their demise, but they'd also have to deal with criticism and judgment from the very citizens they vowed to protect. As a trans woman of color, my very existence is revolutionary and disruptive to traditional societal norms, but I'm willing to challenge those norms if it means creating safe spaces for others to live authentically and without fear.
Despite the frightening times we live in, it's important that transgender people not allow ourselves to be bullied into rejecting our true identities. Regardless of the backlash, rejection, and fear-mongering we're subjected to, we must remain visible to the world free of disguise. This sends the message that we will not tolerate villainy in any form or fashion, nor will we be hindered from taking paths that lead to our true life's purpose. Our heroism comes from our willingness to hold space, without approval or permission. We must continue to stand in the face of adversity and tackle all obstacles that come our way.
It's important that transgender people not allow ourselves to be bullied into rejecting our true identities.Transgender women of color were on the front lines of Stonewall and led the movement toward LGBTQ liberation and equality. When the AIDS epidemic devastated the gay community in the '80s, it was lesbian women who rolled up their sleeves and came to the rescue. But even in cities like West Hollywood, which has a large gay population and is celebrated for its progressive culture, trans women of color still suffer a great deal of lateral oppression at the hands of some of our privileged white cisgender gay brothers.
Recently I had a reservation at Catch LA, an upscale restaurant in West Hollywood that boasts of its celebrity regulars. From the time I walked into the door until the time I left, I was exposed to transphobia, racist microaggressions, and humiliation and was treated so poorly I went home in tears. Everything that transpired that evening continued to replay in my mind on repeat. The attendant at the front door wouldn't honor my gender identity and correct pronouns. I was rejected despite my reservation. I was taken aside and monitored by security as if my presence was criminal. The worse part is that once I was seated, I was shown the discounted section of the menu and "sister-girled" - that is, spoken to with unnatural stereotypical slang that African-American women are supposed to better respond to. Convinced things couldn't become worse, the manager gaslighted me and dismissed me in front of other patrons, reinforcing society's beliefs that trans people don't matter. The most devastating part of this experience was that although this took place in a heterocentric restaurant, the employees who treated me so savagely were gay men.
Sadly, this doesn't come as a surprise to me. For gay men who struggle with internalized homophobia, being accepted into heterocentric spaces feels rewarding. However, when trans women or non-binary queer people who are more expressive in their identities enter those spaces, we somehow pose a threat to that acceptance. These individuals fear that our identities will reinforce the stereotypes and criticism they've endured in their lives. They project those fears onto us through subconscious lateral oppression.
This is problematic because the LGBTQ community at large cannot demand that society treats us with dignity and respect if we lack the capacity to extend the same respect to members of our very own community.
The most devastating part of this experience was that the employees who treated me so savagely were gay men.I wanted to write this piece for two reasons: to let trans, queer people, and people of color know that they aren't alone in the injustices they face and to reinforce that we deserve better. My intention is to encourage others to speak up so that our collective voices can amplify that message. Let this piece serve as a call to action for marginalized communities to unify and mobilize so that we're able to withstand everything coming our way in this social and political climate. It is all of us or none of us. The entire community and our allies must tap into our superhuman powers and push for change the best way we know how.
One of the most powerful ways to push for change is to be intentional about where we spend our money and what businesses we support. Without me having to name them, I'm sure you can think of at least three corporations that were recently boycotted because of their anti-LGBTQ, misogynistic, or racist views. Those boycotts were powerful and heavily impactful. When we withhold our resources from unethical business and companies, we send the message that we will be heard, and if we are not treated with the dignity and respect we deserve, we will not continue to place value in companies that don't see the value in us as people. A brand doesn't make us; we make the brand.
What corporations know that some of you may not is that LGBTQ people in the United States alone contributed $917 billion toward our economy in 2016, according to Bloomberg. We also spent a whopping $75 billion on tourism and travel. Protests, marches, and rallies are great, but we are also learning that there is power in our purchases. We need to hold to the fire the restaurants, businesses, and corporations that refuse to value our existence and to withhold our purchasing power to remind them how much we contribute to this country. I called out Catch LA on every review site and platform I could, and it touched my heart to see so many of our allies and other community members share the information and take a stand with me. By calling them out, it prevents them from benefiting from spending power that should go toward businesses that foster diverse and inclusive spaces. Change doesn't always welcome us through the front door. It's up to us to go through the back door, the chimney, the windows, and the basement to gain entry. We have the power to affect change. We are a powerful people. Now is the time to tap into that superpower.
Ashlee Marie Preston is a diversity speaker, media advocate, and transgender activist.
How 1 Mom's "Obsession" to Exclusively Breastfeed Almost Killed Her Baby
Breast is best . . . until your baby nearly starves to death.
That's the message one mom sent with a candid Reddit post about her struggles with breastfeeding her newborn son, now 15 weeks old.
"I have put literal blood, sweat, and tears into breastfeeding with low supply," she wrote. "Only I didn't realize I had low supply. My kid would have died without formula, it was that bad. He was in the [hospital's Special Care Baby Unit] until almost 2 weeks old due to accidental starvation because I had no idea my baby was starving."
The first-time parent explains how no one stepped in to intervene, not even nurses who could have easily detected the early warning signs.
"The nurses would come in and ask me if he was having wet diapers and I'd rub my finger in it and think 'that kinda feels almost wet?'" she wrote. "It wasn't until he was admitted to the SCBU and we started supplementing formula that I realized what a real wet diaper looked and felt like. And I cried and cried and cried because I realized how hungry my poor baby had been since he was born."
Even her supposed friend came down hard on her for questioning breastfeeding.
"My baby was nursing almost every second of every hour of every day until he fell asleep too exhausted to nurse anymore. I didn't think this was normal, I was stressed and harassed by my lactivist 'friend' who told me this was normal for a breastfed baby and I needed to tough it out. Well, that shit nearly killed my baby. I heard the usual chime of 'cluster feeding' again and again. . . . I was made by my friend to feel like I just wanted an excuse to use formula and that I just couldn't handle what real breastfeeding mums go through."
When she finally introduced formula, doctors encouraged her to maintain a strict regimen of breastfeeding attempts followed by formula and around-the-clock pumping. They'd say the same pseudo-encouraging things like "the baby can remove more milk from the breast than a pump can" and how it's all about "supply and demand!"
But she knew it wasn't helping.
Despite these red flags, the nurses encouraged me to try to exclusively breastfeed my baby again. And I agreed because I presumed it must be safe because they said to do it. His latch was incredibly painful. He had a slight tongue tie that was deemed non restrictive yet was remedied anyway and made no difference to his feeding. My nipples bled, baby screamed constantly and I was told it was normal. I still pumped around the clock to "encourage my milk supply." Yup. Worst mother ever over here. I still didn't realize then that my baby and I were let down by people who should have realized there was a low-supply issue going on.
Eventually I stopped pumping. I was done wasting my hours hooked up to a pump watching other people cuddle and parent my baby while I was tangled up in pumps and tubes and bottles for 5 ounces per day. I had accepted not defeat, but that I was making myself unwell with the stress and lack of sleep and for what? Baby was happy with formula. Baby was healthy with formula!
Now he's 15 weeks old and every single one of his feeds is formula, because that's what he needs to survive and my body just can't give him what he needs to thrive. But we still nurse all throughout the day! It's wonderful. We enjoy our booby cuddles and when he cries it soothes him and he drifts off to sleep. He's not getting ANY milk beyond a dribble now. I wish I'd done better by my son by giving him formula feeds sooner instead of letting him suffer and go hungry for MY obsession to have him exclusively breastfeed.
This mom is still proud of their breastfeeding relationship, and that they continued to "dry nurse" safely, even when it's not about ounces anymore. And her son, who had been readmitted to the hospital for dropping 11-percent of birth weight in those first weeks, is faring much better these days. "HE IS HUMUNGOUS. He's 94th percentile!"
It's OK to Stare at Queen Letizia's Summer Dress - It's Damn Gorgeous
Queen Letizia is at it once again. The Spanish royal made it clear she's ready to show off her Summer wardrobe by wearing a gorgeous, short-sleeved, green floral dress during an official reception in Madrid in honor of Costa Rica's president's visit.
While the dress comes from Carolina Herrera's Pre-Fall 2015 collection and is no longer available, it couldn't be more fitting for the season. The bright shade is balanced by the dark purple florals and even inspired King Felipe VI, who matched his tie to the queen's look. Scroll ahead to check out more photos of Letizia's dress and find a few links to shop your very own green floral number.
If Drake Were a Chocolate Cake, This Is What He Would Taste Like
New York's Butter & Scotch bakery combines two of our favorite things (chocolate and Drake!) with this yummy Hotline Bling cake. Described as "one of the best chocolate cakes I've ever had," by POPSUGAR Executive Editor Nancy Einhart, the Drake-inspired cake is said to be "rich and chocolatey, with just a touch of welcome saltiness." Yeah, we're already drooling, too.
That's not all, though. The dark chocolate Hotline Bling cake ($45) is covered in edible gold glitter fitting for the rap king and has "layers of salted caramel" in between. If you're ready to try it for yourself and you happen to be in the NYC area, you can order and pick up the 10-inch cake, which serves up to 22 slices, or the six-inch cake, which serves up to 10 slices. You can also request a personalized message on top, because YOLO. Now excuse us while we treat ourselves to another piece and stare at these 31 photos of Drake looking edible AF.
11 DIY Beauty Remedies Your Grandma Always Talked About That Actually Work
Every abuela has one: that wild concoction she whips up from ingredients in her kitchen and swears by every time you have a pimple, dry skin, unruly hair - you name it. As kids, most of us rolled our eyes and went along with it, but we've done a little digging, and it turns out maybe Grandma wasn't so crazy after all. Many of those beauty recipes actually work! Warning: do try these 11 practices at home for smooth skin and silky hair - or get these beauty buys that are also grandma-approved.
1. Using mayonnaise as a deep conditioner for healthy hair.
According to hairstylist Nathaniel Hawkins, this old-school method works because of the fat to protein ratio. "The oil softens the hair, making it shinier - and the protein in the eggs will make strands stronger." He recommends applying the treatment to dry hair, and leaving it on as a mask for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo twice, and condition afterwards. But, Hawkins notes, this treatment works best for hair that isn't fine or limp.
2. Dabbing nails in olive oil for a healthier look.
Nail expert Stephanie Stone debunked the myth (common in Dominican culture) that rubbing garlic on nails will make them strong (according to studies, it has no benefit). But, she says, applying olive oil (a popular DIY beauty ingredient in Puerto Rico) on nails and cuticles throughout the day is a great way to improve their health. "Keeping your hands and nails moisturized is key, especially if you're trying to repair damaged nail beds. I'd also recommend applying it lightly throughout the day instead of a full on soak. But consistency is key!"
3. Coconut oil as a body moisturizer.
"This one 100% works," says dermatologist (and Sofia Vergara's derm!) Dendy Engelman, M.D., of coconut oil for soft skin, a popular technique in many Latin American countries. "Coconut oil is mostly made up of saturated fats and medium-chain fatty acids, which help repair the skin barrier, trap water to hydrate skin, and also reduce inflammation. And recent studies show it's also a great treatment for eczema."
4. Adding honey to hair conditioner for softer tresses.
A custom common in Caribbean Latin America, honey is a natural moisturizer, which Hawkins says does work to help rehydrate your locks. And using unprocessed honey will give you an extra bonus: it's full of enzymes that will help create a healthy scalp and prevent dandruff.
5. Agua maravilla to fight blemishes.
Also known as witch hazel, this is common in many Latino families, especially from Puerto Rican and Dominican backgrounds. Engelman says it works because the mixture contains anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antibacterial properties. Engelman also recommends Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Refreshingly Clean Towelettes ($6) to control blemishes and calm bug bites.
6. Washing hair with Coca-Cola for shine.
This is a long-time favorite technique among not just Latino families, but celebrities like Suki Waterhouse. Hairstylist Nunzio Saviano gives this traditional trick the thumbs up: "The acidity closes the hair cuticle, which makes it look healthy and shiny. But be careful: the sugar can leave your hair sticky, so you might need to rinse it out quickly. Apple cider vinegar is an alternative that might not be as messy!"
7. Beach sand as a skin exfoliant.
"Sand is essentially finely granulated rocks, so it's perfect to remove excess dry skin cells," Engelman says. "But because it's so abrasive, I'd only recommend you use it to exfoliate feet. It might be too harsh for other parts of your body."
8. Manzanilla grisi shampoo to lighten hair.
Saviano says that this traditionally Mexican and South American product - which contains Flor de Manzanilla and claims to both wash and lighten hair - does work, but he would use it sparingly. "This will maintain your tone and even lighten it at times, but if you use it too much, your color might become dull or even fade."
9. Grape skin paste for glowing skin.
Grapes are a gold mine, says Engelman. "They'll have a brightening effect over time because they contain vitamins B6, C, and A, and minerals like potassium, magnesium, selenium, and flavonoids, which act as antioxidants and remove toxins from the skin."
10. Sugar and lemon juice as an antiaging exfoliant.
According to Engelman, the sugar crystals act as an exfoliator, sloughing away dead skin, while the lemon juice helps peel away dead skin cells because of their content of alpha hydroxy acid (which is found in many antiaging treatments). Exfoliating is important, Engelman says, "because as we age, our skin doesn't shed as effectively. Plus, getting rid of dead cells helps your moisturizers penetrate better."
11. Avocado for healthy cuticles.
"Actually, rubbing avocado oil on cuticles is more effective than actual avocado," says Stone. But good news for avocado lovers: "Avocados in a healthy, balanced diet will help you see overall improvement in your hair, skin, and nails, too." Bring on the guacamole!
See the Faces of Huda Kattan, Manny MUA, and Jeffree Star Drawn as Swatch Art
When we learned that these incredibly realistic portraits of beauty bloggers were created entirely out of makeup, we had to pick our jaw up off the floor. Known as Lanaartisry on her social media channels, Lana is a self-taught makeup artist from Australia who is amazing makeup mavens everywhere with her artistic talent.
Lana uses a base of concealer to start her impressive portraits, which she paints on her arm. She then adds shading with pencil and a variety of colored cosmetics to fill in eye and hair color, as well as applying makeup to the drawn blogger's face. The results are eerily realistic, and Lana even has been reposted by a few if the bloggers she's drawn.
Although Lana has only recently started her blogger portrait series, they're amazing to look at and we hope she continues making these beautiful pieces of artwork for us to admire.
1 Transgender Woman Explains Why She Feels Like a Superhero
When I was younger, I lived vicariously through the super heroes and heroines who appeared on TV screens or in comic books. Wonder Woman, Superman, Spider Man, the Power rangers, you name them. I remember fantasizing over what it would be like to have supernatural powers and superhuman strength. No matter how dangerous situations became, there was never a threat big enough to deter these heroic figures from doing the right thing at all costs. As if their courage weren't enough, they always held a certain je nais se quoi I deeply admired.
However, despite their incredible abilities, they hid who they truly were and instead assumed the identities of ordinary people. I always wondered if they would trade in their gifts if given the opportunity. One thing every hero and heroine have in common is that none of them ever chose the life. It was their destiny. Who would have known that, years later, as a transgender woman of color, I would become a heroine for revealing my true identity and standing my ground in spaces that didn't readily welcome me. What I do requires hero-like courage: to hold space in a society that oppresses women, people of color, gays, and lesbians and threatens to erase anyone who falls outside of a cisgender-heteronormative identity.
Imagine what it would be like if our favorite superheroes revealed their true identities to the world. Not only would they become more vulnerable to the villains who plot their demise, but they'd also have to deal with criticism and judgment from the very citizens they vowed to protect. As a trans woman of color, my very existence is revolutionary and disruptive to traditional societal norms, but I'm willing to challenge those norms if it means creating safe spaces for others to live authentically and without fear.
Despite the frightening times we live in, it's important that transgender people not allow ourselves to be bullied into rejecting our true identities. Regardless of the backlash, rejection, and fear-mongering we're subjected to, we must remain visible to the world free of disguise. This sends the message that we will not tolerate villainy in any form or fashion, nor will we be hindered from taking paths that lead to our true life's purpose. Our heroism comes from our willingness to hold space,without approval or permission. We must continue to stand in the face of adversity and tackle all obstacles that come our way.
It's important that transgender people not allow ourselves to be bullied into rejecting our true identities.Transgender women of color were on the frontlines of Stonewall and led the movement toward LGBTQ liberation and equality. When the AIDS epidemic devastated the gay community in the '80s, it was lesbian women who rolled up their sleeves and came to the rescue. But even in cities like West Hollywood, which has a large gay population and is celebrated for its progressive culture, trans women of color still suffer a great deal of lateral oppression at the hands of some of our privileged white cisgender gay brothers.
Recently I had reservations at Catch LA, an upscale restaurant in West Hollywood that boasts of its celebrity regulars. From the time I walked into the door until the time I left, I was exposed to transphobia, racist microaggressions, and humiliation and was treated so poorly I went home in tears. Everything that transpired that evening continued to replay in my mind on repeat. The attendant at the front door wouldn't honor my gender identity and correct pronouns. I was rejected despite my reservations. I was taken aside and monitored by security as if my presence were criminal. The worse part is that once I was seated, I was shown the discounted section of the menu and "sister-girled" - that is, spoken to with unnatural stereotypical slang that African-American women are supposed to better respond to. Convinced things couldn't become worse, the manager gaslighted me and dismissed me in front of other patrons, reinforcing society's beliefs that trans people don't matter. The most devastating part of this experience was that although this took place in a heterocentric restaurant, the employees who treated me so savagely were gay men.
Sadly, this doesn't come as a surprise to me. For gay men who struggle with internalized homophobia, being accepted into heterocentric spaces feels rewarding. However, when trans women or non-binary queer people who are more expressive in their identities enter those spaces, we somehow pose a threat to that acceptance. These individuals fear that our identities will reinforce the stereotypes and criticism they've endured in their lives. They project those fears onto us through subconscious lateral oppression.
This is problematic because the LGBTQ community at large cannot demand that society treat us with dignity and respect if we lack the capacity to extend the same respect to members of our very own community.
The most devastating part of this experience was that the employees who treated me so savagely were gay men.I wanted to write this piece for two reasons: to let trans, queer people, and people of color know that they aren't alone in the injustices they face and to reinforce that we deserve better. My intention is to encourage others to speak up so that our collective voices can amplify that message. Let this piece serve as a call to action for marginalized communities to unify and mobilize so that we're able to withstand everything coming our way in this social and political climate. It is all of us or none of us. The entire community and our allies must tap into our superhuman powers and push for change the best way we know how.
One of the most powerful ways to push for change is to be intentional about where we spend our money and what businesses we support. Without me having to name them, I'm sure you can think of at least three corporations that were recently boycotted because of their anti-LGBTQ, misogynistic, or racist views. Those boycotts were powerful and heavily impactful. When we withhold our resources from unethical business and companies, we send the message that we will be heard, and if we are not treated with the dignity and respect we deserve, we will not continue to place value in companies that don't see the value in us as people. A brand doesn't make us; we make the brand.
What corporations know that some of you may not is that LGBTQ people in the United States alone spent $917 billion dollars toward our economy in 2016, according to Bloomberg. We also spent a whopping $75 billion on tourism and travel. Protests, marches, and rallies are great, but we are also learning that there is power in our purchases. We need to hold to the fire the restaurants, businesses, and corporations that refuse to value our existence and withhold our purchasing power, to remind them how much we contribute to this country. I called out Catch LA on every review site and platform I could, and it touched my heart to see so many of our allies and other community members share the information and take a stand with me. By calling them out, I prevents them from benefiting from spending power that should go toward business that foster diverse and inclusive spaces. Change doesn't always welcome us through the front door. It's up to us to go through the back door, the chimney, the windows, and the basement to gain entry. We have the power to affect change. We are a powerful people. Now is the time to tap into that superpower.
Ashlee Marie Preston is a diversity speaker, media advocate, and transgender activist.
Taraji P. Henson Looks Like a Sexy Cyborg at the MTV Movie and TV Awards
Jaws dropped when Taraji P. Henson stepped on the red carpet at the MTV Movie and TV Awards. The Empire actress paired her futuristic frock with a sexy, blunt blond bob that we're praying she decides to make part of her regular look.
She paired her new hair with MAC Viva Glam Lipstick ($17) and Lipglass ($17) in a bright fuchsia shade. Her dewy complexion was made possible with Perfect Blend by Ashunta Sheriff ($40) and long flirty lashes accentuated by Ardell Individual Lashes ($10).
The glamorous and surprisingly wearable look has us clamoring to find our own fuchsia lipstick to rock ASAP.
After Venting to an "Online Friend," This Mom Received a Surprise Package
With shows like Catfish and scary stories we see on the news about people not being who they say they are online, it's hard to trust a stranger on the internet. But one mom is proving that strangers can make for the best friends, and they can often do incredible things. After a car seat arrived at her front door, Abby Murphy is praising someone she has never met, "one of those 'online' friends people scoff at us moms for having and relying on."
Abby shared her story on the popular Love What Matters Facebook page, where she wrote about her friend's meaningful act of kindness. "A friend who has offered and provided meals when my child was hospitalized," she wrote. "A friend who was ready to get on a plane to help me when I was in tears seven months pregnant trying to move my family cross country. A friend who's offered an ear too many times to count when I've been overwhelmed with my middle daughter's autism diagnosis and subsequent treatment. A friend I have never met. A friend who has gone above and beyond so many times."
And this time was no different. Abby was venting to her online friend about how nervous she was for her baby on the way. About how there were still so many things to do.
"And here, two days later arrives a car seat," Abby explained. "Not because I couldn't or wouldn't eventually get it myself. Because she saw a need, and a way to alleviate one check on an overwhelmed mom's long list of to dos. This is more than a car seat to me. It will forever be a reminder that there are really good people out there: people who care, people who go above and beyond."
We need more people like Abby's friend in the world! Since the story was shared on Facebook, many people have commented about their own strong friendships, even with people they've never met before. Check it out below.
Barack Obama Asks Congress to Have "Courage" to Fight the New Healthcare Bill
Former President Barack Obama took little time to speak out against the American Health Care Act. In an award acceptance speech, Obama implored Congress to have the "courage" to do what's right when it comes to health care and repealing Obamacare.
The former president spoke about health care, courage, and keeping hope during these wary times as he accepted the 2017 Centennial John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award from the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation on May 9. His speech remarked on the members of Congress who helped vote in the Affordable Care Act, even though it might've "cost them their new seats, perhaps end their political careers." However, Obama believes that they did what they felt was right and showed the meaning of "courage." He then asks that today's congress members to do the same.
"I hope that current members of Congress recall that it actually doesn't take a lot of courage to aid those who are already powerful, already comfortable, already influential," he said. "But it does require some courage to champion the vulnerable and the sick and the infirm, those who often have no access to the corridors of power. I hope they understand that courage means not simply doing what is politically expedient but doing what they believe deep in their hearts is right."
"We need courage to stand up to hate not just in others but in ourselves."
Obama also tried to reassure any Americans who feel scared about the times we're living in. He mentioned how former President Kennedy lived in a more troubling era, but he still braved it. Obama reminded Americans "we need courage to stand up to hate not just in others but in ourselves . . . At such moments, we need courage to believe that together we can tackle big challenges like inequality and climate change. At such moments, it's necessary for us to show courage in challenging the status quo and in fighting the good fight but also show the courage to listen to one another and seek common ground and embrace principled compromise."
It's clear where the former president stands on the new Trumpcare bill, that will eliminate healthcare for an estimated 24 million Americans. You can watch Obama's entire speech ahead.
After Venting to an "Online Friend," This Mom Received a Surprise Package
With shows like Catfish and scary stories we see on the news about people not being who they say they are online, it's hard to trust a stranger on the internet. But one mom is proving that strangers can make for the best friends, and they can often do incredible things. After a car seat arrived at her front door, Abby Murphy is praising someone she has never met, "one of those 'online' friends people scoff at us moms for having and relying on."
Abby shared her story on the popular Love What Matters Facebook page, where she wrote about her friend's meaningful act of kindness. "A friend who has offered and provided meals when my child was hospitalized," she wrote. "A friend who was ready to get on a plane to help me when I was in tears seven months pregnant trying to move my family cross country. A friend who's offered an ear too many times to count when I've been overwhelmed with my middle daughter's autism diagnosis and subsequent treatment. A friend I have never met. A friend who has gone above and beyond so many times."
And this time was no different. Abby was venting to her online friend about how nervous she was for her baby on the way. About how there were still so many things to do.
"And here, two days later arrives a car seat," Abby explained. "Not because I couldn't or wouldn't eventually get it myself. Because she saw a need, and a way to alleviate one check on an overwhelmed mom's long list of to dos. This is more than a car seat to me. It will forever be a reminder that there are really good people out there: people who care, people who go above and beyond."
We need more people like Abby's friend in the world! Since the story was shared on Facebook, many people have commented about their own strong friendships, even with people they've never met before. Check it out below.
Riverdale's Madelaine Petsch Just Worked MTV's Red Carpet Like an Old Pro
Working a red carpet can be intimidating, especially if you're new to fame. However, the cast of Riverdale is filled with young, talented newcomers . . . and one of them just happens to know how to rock the carpet like nobody's business. Madelaine Petsch (aka Cheryl Blossom) turned up at the MTV Movie and TV Awards on Sunday night to show the vets how it's done alongside boyfriend Travis Mills. Of course, we should have known she would be able to strut in heels with the practiced poise of Victoria Beckham. Though the cast wasn't nominated for anything, you can bet they'll be on the list next year.
Prada's Resort Collection Is Made of Lingerie and Sport Socks
The Prada Resort 2018 collection was revealed at the Osservatorio in Milan. It's the first cruise lineup designer Miuccia Prada's ever offered us from the fashion house, and it certainly did not disappoint.
Delicate silk dresses were fastened with thick black belts at the midriff or otherwise decorated in sequins, balanced at the bottom by knee-high sport socks and a new slingback Prada sneaker that's bound to impress so many street style stars and brand devotees (perhaps like Susie Lau, who sat front row alongside Susan Sarandon, Bianca Jagger, and Courtney Love).
The spindly straps of book-sized clutches wrapped around the models' arms in the accessory department, but Prada's signature '50s-inspired fur sleeves were a funky enough touch on their own. Scroll for a glimpse at a new meeting of the feminine and the athletic below.
Recall Alert! Your Ben & Jerry's Pint Slices May Contain Peanut Butter
You may want to think twice before sinking your teeth into Ben & Jerry's new Pint Slices, because there's a nationwide recall on the frozen treat. Unilever, the parent company, announced the voluntary recall when a customer opened their box of the Chocolate Fudge Brownie flavor of the dessert and discovered Vanilla Peanut Butter Cups Pint Slices inside, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
The individually wrapped slices were identified as the vanilla peanut butter flavor, but the product's outer packaging did not specify that peanut butter was an ingredient, which is highly problematic for those with a serious peanut allergy. I personally rip open my snacks at lightning-fast speeds, so I'd definitely glance over the mislabeled packaging.
If you have the fudgy flavor in your freezer, be sure to double-check the box. The recalled product is sold in a paperboard box with the UPC code of 076840657940, best-by date of AUG1218LT2, and lot number of AUG1218LT2.
Eek, scary stuff! Just another reason to hack the system and make this crave-worthy dessert at home with our DIY recipe instead.
10 Tricks For Better Fruit Salads
It may seem as though there's not much to a fruit salad other than tossing chopped fruit in a bowl, but a few simple tricks transform a flat fruit salad into something enticing to the eye and pleasing to the palate. From picking fruit with the same level of ripeness to spritzing fruit with lemon juice, these 10 tricks will help you make better fruit salads all year round.
Recall Alert! Your Ben & Jerry's Pint Slices May Contain Peanut Butter
You may want to think twice before sinking your teeth into Ben & Jerry's new Pint Slices, because there's a nationwide recall on the frozen treat. Unilever, the parent company, announced the voluntary recall when a customer opened their box of the Chocolate Fudge Brownie flavor of the dessert and discovered Vanilla Peanut Butter Cups Pint Slices inside, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
The individually wrapped slices were identified as the vanilla peanut butter flavor, but the product's outer packaging did not specify that peanut butter was an ingredient, which is highly problematic for those with a serious peanut allergy. I personally rip open my snacks at lightning-fast speeds, so I'd definitely glance over the mislabeled packaging.
If you have the fudgy flavor in your freezer, be sure to double-check the box. The recalled product is sold in a paperboard box with the UPC code of 076840657940, best-by date of AUG1218LT2, and lot number of AUG1218LT2.
Eek, scary stuff! Just another reason to hack the system and make this crave-worthy dessert at home with our DIY recipe instead.
The Final Wonder Woman Trailer Is Here to Shake You to the Core
Back in July, we got our first in-depth look at the Wonder Woman movie when DC released an epic teaser clip as part of its presentation at San Diego Comic-Con. During Sunday's MTV Movie & TV Awards, a brand-spankin'-new trailer for the film dropped, making us hungrier and more excited than ever for the powerhouse film. We've still got weeks to go until the June 2 release, but with plenty of new details, a full cast list on our radar, and this new preview, we may yet be able to hold out until then. Suit up: this is going to be an epic, badass ride.
Here's the full trailer:
Oh, and here's the clip that was released at Comic-Con:
10 Tricks For Better Fruit Salads
It may seem as though there's not much to a fruit salad other than tossing chopped fruit in a bowl, but a few simple tricks transform a flat fruit salad into something enticing to the eye and pleasing to the palate. From picking fruit with the same level of ripeness to spritzing fruit with lemon juice, these 10 tricks will help you make better fruit salads all year round.
Barack Obama Asks Congress to Have "Courage" to Fight the New Healthcare Bill
Former President Barack Obama took little time to speak out against the American Health Care Act. In an award acceptance speech, Obama implored Congress to have the "courage" to do what's right when it comes to health care and repealing Obamacare.
The former president spoke about health care, courage, and keeping hope during these wary times as he accepted the 2017 Centennial John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award from the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation on May 9. His speech remarked on the members of Congress who helped vote in the Affordable Care Act, even though it might've "cost them their new seats, perhaps end their political careers." However, Obama believes that they did what they felt was right and showed the meaning of "courage." He then asks that today's congress members to do the same.
"I hope that current members of Congress recall that it actually doesn't take a lot of courage to aid those who are already powerful, already comfortable, already influential," he said. "But it does require some courage to champion the vulnerable and the sick and the infirm, those who often have no access to the corridors of power. I hope they understand that courage means not simply doing what is politically expedient but doing what they believe deep in their hearts is right."
"We need courage to stand up to hate not just in others but in ourselves."
Obama also tried to reassure any Americans who feel scared about the times we're living in. He mentioned how former President Kennedy lived in a more troubling era, but he still braved it. Obama reminded Americans "we need courage to stand up to hate not just in others but in ourselves . . . At such moments, we need courage to believe that together we can tackle big challenges like inequality and climate change. At such moments, it's necessary for us to show courage in challenging the status quo and in fighting the good fight but also show the courage to listen to one another and seek common ground and embrace principled compromise."
It's clear where the former president stands on the new Trumpcare bill, that will eliminate healthcare for an estimated 24 million Americans. You can watch Obama's entire speech ahead.
Is Richard Simmons OK? A Timeline of His Mysterious Disappearing Act
Image Source: Getty / Michael Buckner
After an '80s heyday of toning tushes on tapes, Richard Simmons continued to be in the pop culture stratosphere for decades, until recently. The lively fitness guru would appear on late-night segments, would teach classes at his Beverly Hills studio, and was always ready to pose with fans for a picture. Then, in 2014, he stopped showing up for classes. He stopped talking to his friends. He no longer bounded out of his home to meet buses full of tourists - he didn't leave his home at all.
The disappearing act has become the subject of a hit podcast, Missing Richard Simmons. It's hosted by Dan Taberski, who, above all, seems genuinely concerned about a generous and caring man who he had come to think of as a friend. While we're still not exactly sure what Richard is up to or if he'll emerge any time soon, let's review what's happened in the past few years.
- Nov. 28, 2013: Richard makes his last television appearance. Richard was photographed at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, clad in a fur coat and in high spirits, posing with various floats.
Image Source: Getty / Laura Cavanaugh
- Jan. 16, 2013: Richard attends his final public event. Months later, he turned up at a fundraiser for Covered California, encouraging people to be healthy and insured.
- Feb. 15, 2014: Richard doesn't show up for class. Despite his fame and fortune (exercise tapes are a big business), Richard always turned up for his students at Slimmons Studio in Beverly Hills. Then on Feb. 15, he didn't call to cancel or alert his staff; he just didn't go.
- March 12, 2016: The New York Daily News publishes a shocking exposé. Over two years after Richard disappeared from the public eye, writer Andy Martino published a story that insinuated that Richard's housekeeper, Teresa Reveles, was now in control of his life. The damning "evidence" relied heavily on an interview with Richard's former masseuse and personal assistant, Mauro Oliveira. Oliveira also wrote a children's book about his take on the situation, which he claims involves witchcraft.
- March 13, 2016: Richard spoke to the Today show. Richard agreed to speak to Savannah Guthrie over the phone, and the interview aired the next day. In it, he says, "No one is holding me in my house as a hostage. I do what I want to do as I've always done, so people should sort of just believe what I have to say because like I'm Richard Simmons!"
- March 12, 2016: Richard also spoke to Entertainment Tonight by phone. The same night, Richard asserted that he was OK while on the phone with a producer from ET. "It's time, right now, for Richard Simmons to take care of Richard Simmons." He expressed gratitude for his fans and claimed to be writing a new book. He also brought up the fact that he was still in recovery from a knee surgery, and his other knee had started to hurt as well.
- June 3, 2016: Richard went to the hospital. Richard stayed the weekend at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, leaving with his housekeeper, Reveles, on June 6. Later that day, he took to Facebook to tell fans that he was just dehydrated.
- June 14, 2016: Richard addresses rumors of a "transition" on Facebook. As noted on the podcast, though Richard had maintained his Facebook page throughout his time out of the spotlight, his posts were impersonal, things that could have easily been written by a social media handler or a personal assistant. But when tabloids began reporting that Richard was transitioning from male to female, he wrote what appeared to be a personal post to "set the record straight."
- Nov. 19, 2016: Slimmons shuts down. The studio, which opened in 1974, closed its doors - and Richard didn't even show up to say goodbye. He wrote a note ("A Loving Goodbye to Slimmons") to his students, which the instructor read aloud to the class. Later, it was posted on Facebook.
- Feb. 15, 2017: Missing Richard Simmons premieres. Taberski's podcast began, reigniting the public's interest in Richard.
- March 10, 2017: Police confirm that they've checked on Richard. Amid growing public concern, police paid a visit to Richard's estate for a routine welfare check. They reported that he was fine and was "just taking some time for himself."
- April 18, 2017: Richard was hospitalized. Richard was hospitalized for "severe indigestion" at an undisclosed location in California, his rep told ABC News. "After a few days of battling severe indigestion and discomfort while eating, we agreed it was best for him to seek treatment," he explained. "He's already feeling better and is expected to make a full recovery."
- April 21, 2017: Richard returns home. Less than a week after he was hospitalized, Richard returned to his house in California. Due to intense paparazzi, the Los Angeles Police Department assisted him inside.
- May 8, 2017: Richard plans to sue three tabloids. A source close to Richard told NBC News that he is planning to serve three different tabloids with a multi-complaint lawsuit, claiming defamation and invasion of privacy for their disappearing claims.
There continue to be regular posts on Richard's Facebook. He even posted a photo of People's April 3 issue, which features him on the cover, calling it "beautiful."
The Queen Reportedly Wants Harry and William to Do Less "Soul-Baring" to the Press
As Prince Philip preps for retirement this Fall, Queen Elizabeth II is setting some ground rules for the rest of the royal family, especially Prince William and Prince Harry. According to the Sunday Times, the queen has suggested that her grandsons put more emphasis on state duties. Over the past few months, the royal brothers have opened up about the death of their mother, Princess Diana, as part of the Heads Together mental health campaign, but a royal source claims that "soul-baring" isn't what Buckingham Palace wants from them. "The direct impact [of Prince Philip's retirement] will be that the Cambridges will be expected to step up and undertake more state business and do less of their campaign work." We, for one, think the younger royals are doing a great job decreasing the stigma surrounding mental illness and ultimately carrying on their mother's legacy.
Is Richard Simmons OK? A Timeline of His Mysterious Disappearing Act
Image Source: Getty / Michael Buckner
After an '80s heyday of toning tushes on tapes, Richard Simmons continued to be in the pop culture stratosphere for decades, until recently. The lively fitness guru would appear on late-night segments, would teach classes at his Beverly Hills studio, and was always ready to pose with fans for a picture. Then, in 2014, he stopped showing up for classes. He stopped talking to his friends. He no longer bounded out of his home to meet buses full of tourists - he didn't leave his home at all.
The disappearing act has become the subject of a hit podcast, Missing Richard Simmons. It's hosted by Dan Taberski, who, above all, seems genuinely concerned about a generous and caring man who he had come to think of as a friend. While we're still not exactly sure what Richard is up to or if he'll emerge any time soon, let's review what's happened in the past few years.
- Nov. 28, 2013: Richard makes his last television appearance. Richard was photographed at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, clad in a fur coat and in high spirits, posing with various floats.
Image Source: Getty / Laura Cavanaugh
- Jan. 16, 2013: Richard attends his final public event. Months later, he turned up at a fundraiser for Covered California, encouraging people to be healthy and insured.
- Feb. 15, 2014: Richard doesn't show up for class. Despite his fame and fortune (exercise tapes are a big business), Richard always turned up for his students at Slimmons Studio in Beverly Hills. Then on Feb. 15, he didn't call to cancel or alert his staff; he just didn't go.
- March 12, 2016: The New York Daily News publishes a shocking exposé. Over two years after Richard disappeared from the public eye, writer Andy Martino published a story that insinuated that Richard's housekeeper, Teresa Reveles, was now in control of his life. The damning "evidence" relied heavily on an interview with Richard's former masseuse and personal assistant, Mauro Oliveira. Oliveira also wrote a children's book about his take on the situation, which he claims involves witchcraft.
- March 13, 2016: Richard spoke to the Today show. Richard agreed to speak to Savannah Guthrie over the phone, and the interview aired the next day. In it, he says, "No one is holding me in my house as a hostage. I do what I want to do as I've always done, so people should sort of just believe what I have to say because like I'm Richard Simmons!"
- March 12, 2016: Richard also spoke to Entertainment Tonight by phone. The same night, Richard asserted that he was OK while on the phone with a producer from ET. "It's time, right now, for Richard Simmons to take care of Richard Simmons." He expressed gratitude for his fans and claimed to be writing a new book. He also brought up the fact that he was still in recovery from a knee surgery, and his other knee had started to hurt as well.
- June 3, 2016: Richard went to the hospital. Richard stayed the weekend at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, leaving with his housekeeper, Reveles, on June 6. Later that day, he took to Facebook to tell fans that he was just dehydrated.
- June 14, 2016: Richard addresses rumors of a "transition" on Facebook. As noted on the podcast, though Richard had maintained his Facebook page throughout his time out of the spotlight, his posts were impersonal, things that could have easily been written by a social media handler or a personal assistant. But when tabloids began reporting that Richard was transitioning from male to female, he wrote what appeared to be a personal post to "set the record straight."
- Nov. 19, 2016: Slimmons shuts down. The studio, which opened in 1974, closed its doors - and Richard didn't even show up to say goodbye. He wrote a note ("A Loving Goodbye to Slimmons") to his students, which the instructor read aloud to the class. Later, it was posted on Facebook.
- Feb. 15, 2017: Missing Richard Simmons premieres. Taberski's podcast began, reigniting the public's interest in Richard.
- March 10, 2017: Police confirm that they've checked on Richard. Amid growing public concern, police paid a visit to Richard's estate for a routine welfare check. They reported that he was fine and was "just taking some time for himself."
- April 18, 2017: Richard was hospitalized. Richard was hospitalized for "severe indigestion" at an undisclosed location in California, his rep told ABC News. "After a few days of battling severe indigestion and discomfort while eating, we agreed it was best for him to seek treatment," he explained. "He's already feeling better and is expected to make a full recovery."
- April 21, 2017: Richard returns home. Less than a week after he was hospitalized, Richard returned to his house in California. Due to intense paparazzi, the Los Angeles Police Department assisted him inside.
- May 8, 2017: Richard plans to sue three tabloids. A source close to Richard told NBC News that he is planning to serve three different tabloids with a multi-complaint lawsuit, claiming defamation and invasion of privacy for their disappearing claims.
There continue to be regular posts on Richard's Facebook. He even posted a photo of People's April 3 issue, which features him on the cover, calling it "beautiful."
The Queen Reportedly Wants Harry and William to Do Less "Soul-Baring" to the Press
As Prince Philip preps for retirement this Fall, Queen Elizabeth II is setting some ground rules for the rest of the royal family, especially Prince William and Prince Harry. According to the Sunday Times, the queen has suggested that her grandsons put more emphasis on state duties. Over the past few months, the royal brothers have opened up about the death of their mother, Princess Diana, as part of the Heads Together mental health campaign, but a royal source claims that "soul-baring" isn't what Buckingham Palace wants from them. "The direct impact [of Prince Philip's retirement] will be that the Cambridges will be expected to step up and undertake more state business and do less of their campaign work." We, for one, think the younger royals are doing a great job decreasing the stigma surrounding mental illness and ultimately carrying on their mother's legacy.
Every Crazy, Sexy, and Cool Moment From the MTV Movie and TV Awards
The MTV Movie and TV Awards went down at the Shrine Auditorium in LA on Sunday night, and as usual, the show - and red carpet - were full of wonderful and hilarious chaos. After rain and hail temporarily shut down the carpet (making it impossible for some of our favorite stars to pose for photos), the show kicked off with a bang. There were emotional acceptance speeches, fangirl moments over Zac Efron, deserving winners, and 13 Reasons Why costar reunions. See all the best moments from the show ahead!
If You Love Your Mom, Buy Her This Doughnut Bouquet on Mother's Day
Traditional flowers are so last year. This year, show your mother just how much you love her with this yummy doughnut bouquet from Tim Hortons. The best part is you won't have to break the bank for this sweet treat. The edible bouquet will be available at select Tim Hortons locations in the US on Mother's Day for just $8. That means you should buy your loving mama more than one, because she deserves it!
Each bite-size doughnut comes in a one of 24 flavors and is slid onto a skewer to give the appearance of an actual flower bouquet. There's also ribbon, tissue paper, and a special Mother's Day gift box that will make your mother feel like the special lady she is. Sounds like the perfect Mother's Day gift, if you ask us!
15 Ways to Show You're Feminist AF All Year Long
When you shop the latest collaborations from your favorite designers in honor of feminism, you won't forget about what you bought. These graphic tops, silk scarves, and patches are more than just wear-it-once souvenirs that we eventually stow away. They're a reminder to stay proud, fierce, fearless females and support one another year round.
In fact, we encourage you to keep all the items ahead in steady rotation, perhaps even more so than your plain, go-to white tee. All of the pieces here are stylish, but a handful of them benefit organizations like Planned Parenthood and Free the Nipple. Before you make your purchase, read up on where the proceeds go. That should give you more than enough of a final nudge to shop.
Yes, That Video of a Girl Calling Trump a Disgrace Is Fake, but Damn Is It Cathartic
If you've scrolled around social media these past few days, you've likely stumbled upon that chuckle-worthy video of a young girl telling President Trump exactly how she feels about him straight to his face. In the short but oh-so-sweet clip, the little badass walks up to the POTUS, with a phone in hand, and confidently says, "You're a disgrace to the world," before stepping back to snap a photo of him.
who is she 👏🏿 http://pic.twitter.com/amElWRGFdp
- najahta (@najahtaa) May 7, 2017
Their interaction quickly went viral on Twitter, garnering more than 170,000 retweets and 260,000 favorites. Many (including us!) initially believed the brutally honest, pint-sized hero was truly face to face with the POTUS himself. But alas, it wasn't actually Trump - it was Anthony Atamanuik, an impersonator whose profile and plastic-like wig bear an uncanny resemblance to the president.
The whole skit was part of a Comedy Central series called The President Show. In an extended version of the video that aired, the fake Trump character even agrees with the little girl that he is, in fact, a disgrace.
The president greets the Tax Day protesters, and the crowd LOVES him. Huge! https://t.co/KJ41qK2OEJhttp://pic.twitter.com/lkjtg6Ne4M
- The President Show (@PresidentShow) May 7, 2017
Although it wasn't really the president in the clip, it looks like the young girl may have been under the impression that it actually was. Anthony Atamanuik took to Twitter to clarify that she wasn't an actress. So her reaction was 100-percent candid, which is pure gold. Preach your truth, girl!
Devastated Foster Mom Explains to Toddler Why They Can't "Keep" His Sister
Fostering a child isn't easy for any parent, but for one foster mom experiencing the heartbreak of letting a child she's grown to love go, it's been even harder trying to explain to her toddler son why his sister has to leave. After spending six months with the sweet baby girl in her family's care, Amber Davis detailed the gut-wrenching feelings she experienced when it was time to say goodbye to her, and how her 4-year-old reacted to the situation.
"We lost the fight. And by 'lost' I mean I didn't get what I wanted. My white picket fence has a hole in it and she's gone," Davis wrote in a post shared to the Love What Matters Facebook page. "I made sure she smelled of lavender before she left. Filled her favorite sippy cup with half water, half apple juice for the ride to her new home for a bit of comfort and distraction. Told her I loved her and purposely made her holler and squirm from being hugged too tight. She likes to give hugs, but hates being restrained in one. I wonder how long it'll take her new family to figure that out."
Davis continues, reflecting on the other things she's discovered about this little girl that her new family will have to learn about her on their own, like the fact that she needs a soft pillow to sleep on and that fist bumps before bed make her giggle. Then she takes a minute to reflect on how her 4-year-old son responded to her departure.
Josiah asked why I was packing up her things last night. I answered immediately from the depths of my heart: "I don't know." But then I realized I had a responsibility to try to help my growing, curious 4-year-old grasp something that I still don't quite understand myself: why can't she stay? As I fumbled my way through an explanation about needing to go live and be together with her sisters I could see the look of confusion on his face . . . 'But we're her brothers.'
My brain scrambled for another answer, but I blanked. So instead I changed the subject. "The good news is that Avonlea will be born soon and you'll have another sister to play with! And you will be her big brother and she will always live with us." I could tell by the look on his face that my lame attempt at explaining things had failed to add up. It just doesn't make sense. Not to him, and frankly . . . not to me, either.
Davis ends her post, touching on whether she would put her family through this experience again. "The heartbreak is overwhelming me tonight. The tears just won't stop. This first loss is more painful than I ever imagined it would be and something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy," she wrote. "So the next time I see that all-too-familiar phone number pop up on my caller ID, asking if we are willing and able to open up our hearts and take in another child who needs us to sacrifice everything we have in order to love them for an undetermined amount of time . . . I already know what my answer will be. Absolutely. Let's do this. For six months or for forever . . . we're in."
Vogue India Finally Responds to That Controversial Kendall Jenner Cover
Update: Vogue India released a statement on Instagram addressing Kendall's cover:
"We have lined-up a series of special issues for this entire year to celebrate our 10th anniversary, starting with the May 2017 Collector's Edition, which is not the anniversary issue. The actual 10th anniversary is October 2017.
In the last 10 years, Vogue India has had only 12 international covers, including Kendall Jenner, in 2017. Therefore, statistically, 90 percent of our covers are Indian. And we are proud of that . . ." See the full statement from the magazine below.
Original Post:
To celebrate Vogue India's 10th anniversary, editor Priya Tanna enlisted two very iconic fashion forces to come together for a shoot. Mario Testino brought Kendall Jenner to Samode Palace near Jaipur, India, which is even more beautiful than you might imagine. Bright, beautiful architecture is the backdrop to a series where Kendall wears monochrome outfits in breezy silhouettes, all of which are not just Pinterest-worthy but also spot-on trend inspiration for the season. Mario is even offering the most gorgeous pic of the bunch up for sale on his site, Mira Mira, in support of the charity Girl Rising India.
Still, since the issue's release, Kendall and Vogue India have been facing major backlash from readers as they were shocked that the magazine hadn't chosen an Indian model for such an important cover. This reminds us of a similar situation Kendall's pal Gigi Hadid faced for her Vogue Arabia cover. Ahead, have a look at the cover and editorial that's now at the center of some drama.
- Additional reporting by Nikita Ramsinghani and Marina Liao
Devastated Foster Mom Explains to Toddler Why They Can't "Keep" His Sister
Fostering a child isn't easy for any parent, but for one foster mom experiencing the heartbreak of letting a child she's grown to love go, it's been even harder trying to explain to her toddler son why his sister has to leave. After spending six months with the sweet baby girl in her family's care, Amber Davis detailed the gut-wrenching feelings she experienced when it was time to say goodbye to her, and how her 4-year-old reacted to the situation.
"We lost the fight. And by 'lost' I mean I didn't get what I wanted. My white picket fence has a hole in it and she's gone," Davis wrote in a post shared to the Love What Matters Facebook page. "I made sure she smelled of lavender before she left. Filled her favorite sippy cup with half water, half apple juice for the ride to her new home for a bit of comfort and distraction. Told her I loved her and purposely made her holler and squirm from being hugged too tight. She likes to give hugs, but hates being restrained in one. I wonder how long it'll take her new family to figure that out."
Davis continues, reflecting on the other things she's discovered about this little girl that her new family will have to learn about her on their own, like the fact that she needs a soft pillow to sleep on and that fist bumps before bed make her giggle. Then she takes a minute to reflect on how her 4-year-old son responded to her departure.
Josiah asked why I was packing up her things last night. I answered immediately from the depths of my heart: "I don't know." But then I realized I had a responsibility to try to help my growing, curious 4-year-old grasp something that I still don't quite understand myself: why can't she stay? As I fumbled my way through an explanation about needing to go live and be together with her sisters I could see the look of confusion on his face . . . 'But we're her brothers.'
My brain scrambled for another answer, but I blanked. So instead I changed the subject. "The good news is that Avonlea will be born soon and you'll have another sister to play with! And you will be her big brother and she will always live with us." I could tell by the look on his face that my lame attempt at explaining things had failed to add up. It just doesn't make sense. Not to him, and frankly . . . not to me, either.
Davis ends her post, touching on whether she would put her family through this experience again. "The heartbreak is overwhelming me tonight. The tears just won't stop. This first loss is more painful than I ever imagined it would be and something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy," she wrote. "So the next time I see that all-too-familiar phone number pop up on my caller ID, asking if we are willing and able to open up our hearts and take in another child who needs us to sacrifice everything we have in order to love them for an undetermined amount of time . . . I already know what my answer will be. Absolutely. Let's do this. For six months or for forever . . . we're in."
15 Ways to Show You're Feminist AF All Year Long
When you shop the latest collaborations from your favorite designers in honor of feminism, you won't forget about what you bought. These graphic tops, silk scarves, and patches are more than just wear-it-once souvenirs that we eventually stow away. They're a reminder to stay proud, fierce, fearless females and support one another year round.
In fact, we encourage you to keep all the items ahead in steady rotation, perhaps even more so than your plain, go-to white tee. All of the pieces here are stylish, but a handful of them benefit organizations like Planned Parenthood and Free the Nipple. Before you make your purchase, read up on where the proceeds go. That should give you more than enough of a final nudge to shop.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2: Who the Heck Is Adam?!
Warning: spoilers below.
Out of all five end credits sequences in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, only one really matters. It's the third scene, and it features a revenge-bent Ayesha (Elizabeth Debecki) introducing a new creation. Ayesha is the high priestess of a genetically ideal race of aliens known as the Sovereign, and all their members are scientifically engineered, not born. Ayesha is wildly frustrated, as the Guardians have outsmarted them for the second time. She reveals a giant pod, telling another member of the Sovereign that this superalien is incredibly strong. "I think I shall call him Adam," she declares.
This new character is Adam Warlock, a beloved hero in the Marvel world. In the books, his origin story is a bit different; he's created by a group of scientists called the Beehive, and for a long time, he was simply known as "Him." His powers include strength, speed, stamina, and extreme healing, but his signature move is encasing himself in a cocoon (which we see in the credits sequence) at a moment's notice. He is powerful on his own, but he can also harness the power of the Infinity Stones (known as the Infinity Gems in the books) to increase his energy.
Though Ayesha is clearly creating him to combat the Guardians, Adam is actually their ally in the books. He fights alongside them and is one of Thanos's most notable enemies. While Adam is good, he has an evil alter ego named Magus.
During interviews for Vol. 2, director James Gunn told SlashFilm that Adam will not appear in Infinity War, the next Avengers movie. "But he will be a part of the future Marvel cosmic universe and a pretty important part of that." Hmmm.
So basically, he's Kind of a Big Deal.
Ikea's Frakta Bag Is the Hottest New Clothing Trend on Instagram
Ikea's Frakta bag is so hot right now. After Balenciaga debuted a cobalt-blue leather bag bearing a striking resemblance to Ikea's famous shopping tote, the internet took notice. Fashion-lovers and Ikea shoppers alike have been using the Frakta bag to make fashionable clothing items: hats, shoes, masks, and even thongs! While the Balenciaga bag has a steep price tag of $2,145, the Frakta costs only $0.99, and it clearly has endless possibilities.
We wonder what Balenciaga designer Demna Gvasalia thinks of all of this, but the fact that people are designing wearable items from a shopping bag is impressive enough. Keep reading to see all the fun Balenciaga-inspired fashion.
Ikea's Frakta Bag Is the Hottest New Clothing Trend on Instagram
Ikea's Frakta bag is so hot right now. After Balenciaga debuted a cobalt-blue leather bag bearing a striking resemblance to Ikea's famous shopping tote, the internet took notice. Fashion-lovers and Ikea shoppers alike have been using the Frakta bag to make fashionable clothing items: hats, shoes, masks, and even thongs! While the Balenciaga bag has a steep price tag of $2,145, the Frakta costs only $0.99, and it clearly has endless possibilities.
We wonder what Balenciaga designer Demna Gvasalia thinks of all of this, but the fact that people are designing wearable items from a shopping bag is impressive enough. Keep reading to see all the fun Balenciaga-inspired fashion.
The 13 Reasons Why Cast Reuniting on Stage Will Mend Your Heart Back Together
It's too early for 13 Reasons Why to win any MTV Movie and TV Awards, but the cast did get the royal treatment, presenting the trophy for best TV show to Stranger Things. It's great to see two killer Netflix squads on stage at once, but it's really just heartwarming to see everyone from 13 Reasons Why together. The show was officially renewed for season two on Sunday morning, and you can tell they're just stoked that they get to keep working together. Check out the clip, and catch up with the teaser for 13 Reasons Why's second season.
ALERTA DE FEELS! Elenco de '13 Reasons Why' e 'Stranger Things' se encontram no palco do #MTVAwards. http://pic.twitter.com/Lelc9P9juv
- Megafone POP (@megafonepop) May 8, 2017
You Probably Didn't Notice the Best Part About Jordana Brewster's MTV Awards Look
Jordana Brewster came ready to make heads turn at the 2017 MTV Movie and TV Awards. The actress wore an Antonio Berardi dress that hugged her in all of the right places. And while the mix-and-match materials on the dress went perfectly with the high-low detail in the skirt, what you might not have noticed is the fun hairstyle Jordana paired with her dress for the show. The Brazilian-Panamanian beauty took her look to warrior princess levels with her intricate zig-zag high ponytail.
Jordana was there to receive the generation award for The Fast and Furious franchise with costars Michelle Rodriguez and Vin Diesel. Keep scrolling to see her full look.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2: Who the Heck Is Adam?!
Warning: spoilers below.
Out of all five end credits sequences in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, only one really matters. It's the third scene, and it features a revenge-bent Ayesha (Elizabeth Debecki) introducing a new creation. Ayesha is the high priestess of a genetically ideal race of aliens known as the Sovereign, and all their members are scientifically engineered, not born. Ayesha is wildly frustrated, as the Guardians have outsmarted them for the second time. She reveals a giant pod, telling another member of the Sovereign that this superalien is incredibly strong. "I think I shall call him Adam," she declares.
This new character is Adam Warlock, a beloved hero in the Marvel world. In the books, his origin story is a bit different; he's created by a group of scientists called the Beehive, and for a long time, he was simply known as "Him." His powers include strength, speed, stamina, and extreme healing, but his signature move is encasing himself in a cocoon (which we see in the credits sequence) at a moment's notice. He is powerful on his own, but he can also harness the power of the Infinity Stones (known as the Infinity Gems in the books) to increase his energy.
Though Ayesha is clearly creating him to combat the Guardians, Adam is actually their ally in the books. He fights alongside them and is one of Thanos's most notable enemies. While Adam is good, he has an evil alter ego named Magus.
During interviews for Vol. 2, director James Gunn told SlashFilm that Adam will not appear in Infinity War, the next Avengers movie. "But he will be a part of the future Marvel cosmic universe and a pretty important part of that." Hmmm.
So basically, he's Kind of a Big Deal.
The Handmaid's Tale Author: "With Trump, People Are Starting to See It Can Happen Here"
Image Source: Getty / Rich Fury
Margaret Atwood knows a thing or two about authoritarian governments. She was living in West Berlin in the 1980s at the time when she wrote The Handmaid's Tale, her classic novel about a dystopian America under the rule of authoritarian Christian men. During her time there, the German city was encircled by the Berlin Wall and the Cold War raged. Under the circumstances, she experienced some of what her main character, Offred, encounters in the republic of Gilead: namely, the feeling of being spied on and the clever ways people trade information under duress. But her research didn't stop there; she turned up several other instances of man-made oppression as she wrote like bans on reading and education, public executions, gag orders, slavery, the history of American polygamy, and the children of Argentina's "disappeared."
"When I wrote The Handmaid's Tale, American exceptionalism was prevalent, but it's less so now. With Trump, people are starting to see it can happen here."According to Atwood, history's examples of crushing, dictatorial regimes are plentiful because "power can shift into the wrong hands easily and quickly when certain preconditions are present," she told POPSUGAR. "The availability of jobs and money are based on the principle of supply and demand, so when either of these becomes scarce, people panic and seek a change in leadership." Indeed, opportunistic would-be leaders know this.
In light of her seminal book becoming a new TV series on Hulu - and the uncomfortable parallels we're seeing between the story and our own political environment - we connected with the author to talk about literature, power, and the Populist movements sprouting up around the globe.
The Inciting Incident
Atwood hails from Canada, but legend has it her heritage can be traced back to Mary Webster, a woman accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts during the Salem witch trials. She says this personal history motivated her to write a story about a society that rounds up its women and strips them of their basic rights. And she was keen on sending Americans a message: don't think it can't happen here, because it already has. "When I wrote The Handmaid's Tale, American exceptionalism was prevalent, but it's less so now. With Trump, people are starting to see it can happen here." Atwood's dystopian tale, something of an oracle, does feel as - if not more - relevant now than it's ever been.
The Recipe For a Dictatorship
In The Handmaid's Tale, there's a running theme throughout: a tug of war between the freedom from and the freedom to. Curious about this distinction, we asked Atwood which of these freedoms is most conducive to a healthy society. "People often think that one of these freedoms is preferable to the other," she said. "But each has their drawbacks when taken to the extreme. The key is finding a balance between the two."
She went on to describe the difference by sharing her recipe for a dictatorship. She asked us to draw a diagram as part of the exercise.
Following her instructions, we . . .
- Drew a large circle in the middle of a sheet of paper and dissected it with a line running from top to bottom, drawing arrows at both ends of the spectrum.
- Then, we labeled the arrow pointing upward "Dictatorship: Freedom From" and the arrow pointing downward "Anarchy: Freedom To."
- Next, we found the middle of the spectrum - which is also the center of the circle - and we marked it with a bullseye, labeling it "Center: A Balance of Both Freedoms."
- Finally, we wrote the words "Left" and "Right" in their respective halves of the circle.
With the diagram in front of us, she explained that a dictatorship promises its citizens the freedom from, which is a type of freedom best described as protection and security. On the opposite end of the spectrum, anarchy promises the freedom to, which is the freedom to do anything without consequence. A pair of quotes taken from chapter five of The Handmaid's Tale put this in context:
"There is more than one kind of freedom. Freedom to and freedom from. In the days of anarchy, it was freedom to. Women were not protected then. Now you are being given freedom from. Don't underrate it."
"Now we walk along the same streets, and no man shouts obscenities at us, speaks to us, touches us. No one whistles."
Atwood went on to say both the Right and the Left are capable of creating either a Dictatorship or Anarchy, although we can avoid these extremes by striking a balance between the ideologies. The bullseye - or sweet spot, as she calls it - is a perfect state of harmony where we enjoy our own individual freedoms without infringing upon others' freedoms. When we asked her how a government could achieve this balanced state, she was quick to reply: "A more equitable distribution of money in society."
She noted that in the US in the 1950s, for all its faults concerning civil and women's rights, there was a more even distribution of wealth than we have now. The result was the strongest middle class the world has ever seen, and in turn, a period of relative stability. Family units were more stable because they had savings in their coffers and the fear of ending up on the street was less of a threat. It's well documented that money (or the lack thereof) is the leading cause of stress in relationships, so for all the talk about "family values" in this country, it would behoove both the Right and the Left to put their money where their mouths are. Atwood says that when Trump talks about "making America great again," he's referring to this previous golden age of the American middle class, yet the policies he's proposing are in direct opposition to making this a reality.
Image Source: Netflix
The Thing That Will Save Us All
Our conversation with Atwood was sobering but not without brightness. We asked the author to share her thoughts on the role literature plays in society, and her response was hopeful:
"A novel is the closest you will ever get to being inside another person's mind. With film, it's visual; you're watching a character go through an experience, just as we do in our daily interactions with people. But with a novel, you are reading and processing a character's direct thoughts as they go through the highs and lows of the human experience. You are literally thinking their thoughts, therefore, it's the closest we can get to standing in another person's shoes. Studies have shown that reading literary novels increases our ability to experience empathy. No other art form can give you this same experience."
Empathy is hot topic right now. Educators at every level - from preschool teachers to college professors - are touting the benefits of social emotional learning and emotional intelligence. It seems they are catching on to what Atwood already knows: empathy may be our best hope for a healthy, unified society, and fiction is the conduit. Indeed, in a time rife with political uncertainty and an Us vs. Them way of thinking, literature - and the TV shows inspired by it - may be the thing that saves us all.
It Might Be Spring, but You'll Want to Shop Selena Gomez's Sexy Swimsuits
You might think of celebrities on perma-vacations like Alessandra Ambrosio and Adriana Lima when you're looking for swimsuit inspiration, but we're telling you right now that Selena Gomez's beach style is the most versatile of them all.
The singer, who, after a short hiatus, made an emotional return to the spotlight at the end of 2016 with her acceptance speech at the American Music Awards, chooses both sexy bikinis and practical one-pieces that flatter her curves and still manage to be comfortable. So if you're headed to a warm location this Spring or simply want to stock up for the Summer - it's never too early - look ahead for lots of inspiration from Selena.
Chiara Ferragni's New Engagement Ring Shines Brighter Than Her YSL Minidress
For blogger and entrepreneur Chiara Ferragni's 30th birthday, she invited all of her friends to Venice, Italy. They were wearing customized Alberta Ferretti sweaters that read "Chiara." But if wasn't enough of a statement, Chiara celebrated her special night in a shimmering Saint Laurent minidress, which was later embellished by a brand new ring from her new fiancé, Federico. Scroll for a quick snap of the gorgeous sparkler that shines brighter than the most luminous dress at the party.
Let Milo Ventimiglia Fill the This Is Us-Shaped Hole in Your Heart
This Is Us may be on a hiatus, but the cast's bond is as strong as ever. On Sunday, a few of the stars reunited for the MTV Movie and TV Awards. The Pearson family patriarch, Milo Ventimiglia (Jack), posed for a few photos on the red carpet, while his onscreen son Lonnie Chavis (who plays young Randall) made our hearts melt with his warm smile. Chrissy Metz (Kate) even participated in host Adam DeVine's Beauty and the Beast-themed opening number. Not to mention Milo and Lonnie's cute moment on stage when they took home the best tearjerker moment. Gosh, we love this cast.
Yes, That Video of a Girl Calling Trump a Disgrace Is Fake, but Damn Is It Cathartic
If you've scrolled around social media these past few days, you've likely stumbled upon that chuckle-worthy video of a young girl telling President Trump exactly how she feels about him straight to his face. In the short but oh-so-sweet clip, the little badass walks up to the POTUS, with a phone in hand, and confidently says, "You're a disgrace to the world," before stepping back to snap a photo of him.
who is she 👏🏿 http://pic.twitter.com/amElWRGFdp
- najahta (@najahtaa) May 7, 2017
Their interaction quickly went viral on Twitter, garnering more than 170,000 retweets and 260,000 favorites. Many (including us!) initially believed the brutally honest, pint-sized hero was truly face to face with the POTUS himself. But alas, it wasn't actually Trump - it was Anthony Atamanuik, an impersonator whose profile and plastic-like wig bear an uncanny resemblance to the president.
The whole skit was part of a Comedy Central series called The President Show. In an extended version of the video that aired, the fake Trump character even agrees with the little girl that he is, in fact, a disgrace.
The president greets the Tax Day protesters, and the crowd LOVES him. Huge! https://t.co/KJ41qK2OEJhttp://pic.twitter.com/lkjtg6Ne4M
- The President Show (@PresidentShow) May 7, 2017
Although it wasn't really the president in the clip, it looks like the young girl may have been under the impression that it actually was. Anthony Atamanuik took to Twitter to clarify that she wasn't an actress. So her reaction was 100-percent candid, which is pure gold. Preach your truth, girl!
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