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.
vendredi 12 mai 2017
5 Confessions of a Registered Dietitian
The following post was originally featured on Fannetastic Food, which is part of POPSUGAR's influencer network.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim
I can't believe it has been 4 years since I became an RD - I've officially been a dietitian longer than the amount of time it took me to become one, which is cool. Since I changed careers to become a dietitian and was coming from an unrelated field, it took me a total of 3.5 years to complete the prerequisites, required science-heavy coursework, and internship hours required to sit for the RD exam. Whew!
In December 2012, I graduated with my Masters of Public Health in Nutrition from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and in February 2013, I passed the RD exam and shortly after started my own nutrition coaching private practice at AnneTheRD.com!
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
I'm not your typical dietitian in that I tell clients to quit calorie counting and throw away their scales and stop following rigid diet plans (because being healthy means not always being healthy, in my opinion). I love helping others to improve their health in a balanced, sustainable, and non-stressful way through intuitive eating - so much so that besides focusing on it in my private practice, I also created a virtual non-diet intuitive and mindful eating group program last year called Joyful Eating, Nourished Life!
I thought it would be fun to share some confessions of a registered dietitian. Enjoy, and please feel free to include your own (whether you are an RD or not) in the comments!
1) I can't even remember the last time I packed lunch
When I was working in offices back in the day, and when I was in grad school full time, I used to pack lunch almost almost every single day. Now, as you've probably noticed by the fact that I haven't shared a packed lunch idea in ages. I almost never pack my lunch, even though I work outside of the house at my co-working space in the city 2 to 3 days per week.
I often head straight to my co-working space from a workout class, so my backpack is not only stuffed with my work stuff (laptop, notebooks, etc.), but also all my sweaty workout gear (shoes + clothes) and shower stuff. Unless I got a HUGE backpack there's no extra space for food (besides snack bars), and I'm really not interested in also carrying a heavy lunch box on top of all that other stuff.
But most importantly, there are tons of delicious fast casual places in DC near my co-working space that I want to enjoy! So I treat myself and refuse to feel guilty about it, even though it's obviously more expensive. :)
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
2) I'm terrible at meal prep.
I know, a dietitian that sucks at meal prep - crazy, right? I know some people swear by meal planning and prep, but for me, it just feels overwhelming and limiting - and I never want to spend hours over the weekend in the kitchen prepping food. I've found that what works for us is to:
- Have a few "wing it" dinner ideas that we always have the ingredients on hand for in the fridge/freezer/pantry (things like my saucy tomato artichoke chicken, or my recent fave Sheet Pan Asian Salmon - or there's always breakfast for dinner).
- Get Sun Basket (affiliate link for 3 free meals) or a similar service every week to cover 3 of our dinners and so we get to try new-to-us meals.
- Have ingredients on hand for my go-to easy breakfasts (like my Perfect Microwave Banana Oatmeal and Flour Free Breakfast Pancake) and lunches when working from home (I usually make a grain bowl with greens, grains, beans, avocado, and random veggies).
I actually have a blog post coming up on easy pantry meal ideas/things to have on hand to be able to throw together easy meals without prep, so stay tuned for that.
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
3) I think cooking shows are boring.
I know I might be in the minority on this one, but I think cooking shows are really boring. Enough said. Travel/adventure shows, on the other hand? Love them. I'm also partial to teenage drama series that I probably shouldn't be watching as a woman in my thirties, but I do anyway. Bonus points if they have vampires and/or werewolves involved.
4) Sometimes I don't take my own advice.
I write a lot about eating mindfully without distractions (and why you need to take a lunch break), and on listening to your hunger and fullness cues. But you know what? I'm human and certainly not perfect, and while I aim to take my own advice most of the time, sometimes I don't. And that's okay too. Sometimes I just really, really enjoy eating a meal in front of the TV. And sometimes I don't plan ahead as well as I should have and I get a little too hungry (HANGRY) in the afternoons. Sometimes I have dessert or a few more bites of that burger and fries or another glass of wine, even though a little more will probably leave me feeling a little too full.
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
5) I get tired of people judging my food choices after I tell them that I'm an RD.
This one drives me especially crazy because, as an intuitive eating/"everything in moderation" RD, it bugs me even more that people assume I'm basically the food police (or on some sort of strict diet, or ready to put them on some sort of strict diet) because I'm a dietitian.
Inevitably, if I tell someone I'm an RD, especially if we are eating a meal together, the other person immediately makes assumptions and comments about what I'm about to eat or am already eating. Things like: "Oh, I better not eat bread in front of you!" or "I can't believe you're eating that burger!" or "Of course you're having a salad!"
It's all I can do to smile and explain that yes, I'm a dietitian, but I focus on intuitive eating and no, that does not involve restricting calories or food groups. Whatever I'm eating, "healthy" or not, is because I actually want it in that moment. I know people have good intentions and are just making conversation - but I'm so ready for the "food police" stereotype to be over with.
All of Shay Mitchell's Sexiest Swimsuits Have One Thing in Common
It's no secret that Shay Mitchell is fond of traveling. The Pretty Little Liars star is constantly uploading photos of her envy-inducing vacations and dishing on her adventures in her YouTube series, Shaycation, which has over one million subscribers.
So when it comes to gearing up for a fun Summer getaway, she makes sure to pack her go-to - and very sexy! - swimsuit style, which may not come as a total surprise after scrolling through her feed. "I'm a huge fan of one-pieces . . . I love them," she told us. "I love bright colors, and there are so many amazing options to choose from as far as swim is concerned."
Keep scrolling to look back at some of her best swimwear moments, then shop the looks.
- Additional reporting by Samantha Sutton
5 Confessions of a Registered Dietitian
The following post was originally featured on Fannetastic Food, which is part of POPSUGAR's influencer network.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Sheila Gim
I can't believe it has been 4 years since I became an RD - I've officially been a dietitian longer than the amount of time it took me to become one, which is cool. Since I changed careers to become a dietitian and was coming from an unrelated field, it took me a total of 3.5 years to complete the prerequisites, required science-heavy coursework, and internship hours required to sit for the RD exam. Whew!
In December 2012, I graduated with my Masters of Public Health in Nutrition from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and in February 2013, I passed the RD exam and shortly after started my own nutrition coaching private practice at AnneTheRD.com!
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
I'm not your typical dietitian in that I tell clients to quit calorie counting and throw away their scales and stop following rigid diet plans (because being healthy means not always being healthy, in my opinion). I love helping others to improve their health in a balanced, sustainable, and non-stressful way through intuitive eating - so much so that besides focusing on it in my private practice, I also created a virtual non-diet intuitive and mindful eating group program last year called Joyful Eating, Nourished Life!
I thought it would be fun to share some confessions of a registered dietitian. Enjoy, and please feel free to include your own (whether you are an RD or not) in the comments!
1) I can't even remember the last time I packed lunch
When I was working in offices back in the day, and when I was in grad school full time, I used to pack lunch almost almost every single day. Now, as you've probably noticed by the fact that I haven't shared a packed lunch idea in ages. I almost never pack my lunch, even though I work outside of the house at my co-working space in the city 2 to 3 days per week.
I often head straight to my co-working space from a workout class, so my backpack is not only stuffed with my work stuff (laptop, notebooks, etc.), but also all my sweaty workout gear (shoes + clothes) and shower stuff. Unless I got a HUGE backpack there's no extra space for food (besides snack bars), and I'm really not interested in also carrying a heavy lunch box on top of all that other stuff.
But most importantly, there are tons of delicious fast casual places in DC near my co-working space that I want to enjoy! So I treat myself and refuse to feel guilty about it, even though it's obviously more expensive. :)
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
2) I'm terrible at meal prep.
I know, a dietitian that sucks at meal prep - crazy, right? I know some people swear by meal planning and prep, but for me, it just feels overwhelming and limiting - and I never want to spend hours over the weekend in the kitchen prepping food. I've found that what works for us is to:
- Have a few "wing it" dinner ideas that we always have the ingredients on hand for in the fridge/freezer/pantry (things like my saucy tomato artichoke chicken, or my recent fave Sheet Pan Asian Salmon - or there's always breakfast for dinner).
- Get Sun Basket (affiliate link for 3 free meals) or a similar service every week to cover 3 of our dinners and so we get to try new-to-us meals.
- Have ingredients on hand for my go-to easy breakfasts (like my Perfect Microwave Banana Oatmeal and Flour Free Breakfast Pancake) and lunches when working from home (I usually make a grain bowl with greens, grains, beans, avocado, and random veggies).
I actually have a blog post coming up on easy pantry meal ideas/things to have on hand to be able to throw together easy meals without prep, so stay tuned for that.
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
3) I think cooking shows are boring.
I know I might be in the minority on this one, but I think cooking shows are really boring. Enough said. Travel/adventure shows, on the other hand? Love them. I'm also partial to teenage drama series that I probably shouldn't be watching as a woman in my thirties, but I do anyway. Bonus points if they have vampires and/or werewolves involved.
4) Sometimes I don't take my own advice.
I write a lot about eating mindfully without distractions (and why you need to take a lunch break), and on listening to your hunger and fullness cues. But you know what? I'm human and certainly not perfect, and while I aim to take my own advice most of the time, sometimes I don't. And that's okay too. Sometimes I just really, really enjoy eating a meal in front of the TV. And sometimes I don't plan ahead as well as I should have and I get a little too hungry (HANGRY) in the afternoons. Sometimes I have dessert or a few more bites of that burger and fries or another glass of wine, even though a little more will probably leave me feeling a little too full.
Image Source: Fannetastic Food
5) I get tired of people judging my food choices after I tell them that I'm an RD.
This one drives me especially crazy because, as an intuitive eating/"everything in moderation" RD, it bugs me even more that people assume I'm basically the food police (or on some sort of strict diet, or ready to put them on some sort of strict diet) because I'm a dietitian.
Inevitably, if I tell someone I'm an RD, especially if we are eating a meal together, the other person immediately makes assumptions and comments about what I'm about to eat or am already eating. Things like: "Oh, I better not eat bread in front of you!" or "I can't believe you're eating that burger!" or "Of course you're having a salad!"
It's all I can do to smile and explain that yes, I'm a dietitian, but I focus on intuitive eating and no, that does not involve restricting calories or food groups. Whatever I'm eating, "healthy" or not, is because I actually want it in that moment. I know people have good intentions and are just making conversation - but I'm so ready for the "food police" stereotype to be over with.
Breaking Down the Identity of the Mysterious Gunman on Riverdale
Riverdale has concluded its first season, and we're already craving more. While the show finally put the mystery surrounding Jason Blossom's killer to rest, there is another big question on the table: who shot Fred Andrews? In the final moments of the episode, a masked robber comes into Pop's and shoots Archie's dad in the stomach. As he bleeds out on the floor, we're left to wonder if he'll actually survive. While we'll have to wait until season two to know for sure, that hasn't stopped us from theorizing who the mysterious shooter might be. As Jughead points out in the narration, this act of violence wasn't random. So, who has the most motive for killing Fred Andrews? Here are three likely suspects in order of least to most guilty.
3. Penelope Blossom
The Blossoms do have quite the reputation for murdering people. Maybe she was seeking revenge for Archie and his friends cracking Jason's murder. Although, it seems unlikely that Penelope would be concerned with an Andrews at the moment. Not only did her husband kill himself, but her daughter just burned down their entire house like a crazy psychopath. Yeah, she definitely has bigger fish to fry.
2. A Southside Serpent
Like the Southside Serpents tell Jughead, they take care of their own. Maybe they're finally getting payback for how Fred treated FP all those years ago. Even so, Jughead and Archie are still pretty close friends. We're not sure they would do something to jeopardize that.
1. Hiram Lodge
Our money is on Veronica's dad. While he probably isn't the masked gunman, he could have sent a hitman to Pop's. It's not like he hasn't done something like this before. After getting wind of Fred and Hermione's affair, Hiram sent two thugs to trash the Andrews Construction site as a warning. No doubt this would surely throw a wrench in Archie and Veronica's blossoming relationship.
19 Spanish-Language Movies to Add to Your Netflix Queue Stat
If you've already binge-watched your favorite telenovelas on Netflix, might we suggest loading up your queue with must-see movies in Spanish?
The popular streaming platform actually has a solid mix of comedies, dramas, and feel-good films, all perfect for when you need a break from episode-heavy shows. Ahead, find 19 titles we'd recommend adding to your list.
- Additional reporting by Alessandra Foresto
The Heroic Way 1 Bus Driver Saved 56 Students From a Devastating Bus Fire
One woman proved once again why bus drivers are everyday heroes when she managed to save all 56 students on board after her school bus caught on fire. Teresa Stroble, from Duncan, SC, kept her composure after two ninth grade students alerted her of smoke coming from the bus. According to a statement from the school district, Stroble was driving the students on their way to Duncan Elementary, Beech Springs Intermediate, and Byrnes Freshman Academy when she quickly yet calmly directed the kids to safety before calling the fire department.
The seven-year veteran driver and teacher assistant is being labeled a hero for her steady and swift action that inevitably led to the safety of every student before the fire ravaged the entire bus. "Hero!! Ms. Teresa Stroble. She evacuated 56 students in under a minute. God bless her. So grateful for her quick action," Superintendent Scott Turner tweeted out. The district also praised the Duncan Fire Department for putting the fire out and "all district administrators who responded and helped with what could have been a very tragic situation."
Read on to see more photos from the destructive bus fire to understand exactly why Stroble is worthy of her praise.
Leading Voices Call Sessions's New Drug Policy "Ineffective and Discriminatory"
Jeff Sessions has long signaled he would lead the Justice Department with an uncompromising position on crime. Following a tumultuous week for the department, the attorney general explicitly defined his policy on crime, and it will almost certainly lead to a continuation of the nation's mass incarceration epidemic.
In a letter addressed to federal prosecutors, Sessions outlined his "charging and sentencing" policy. "It is a core principle that prosecutors should charge and pursue the most serious, readily provable offense," Sessions wrote. "By definition, the most serious offenses are those that carry the most substantial guidelines sentence, including mandatory minimum sentences."
Though not entirely surprising, Sessions's commitment to doubling down on mandatory minimums is alarming for a number of reasons. Most notably, it poses a threat to black and inner-city communities that have unquestionably been the victims of harsh mandatory minimum laws. The Congressional Black Caucus chairman, Representative Cedric Richmond, described Sessions's letter as enforcing a policy that has been proven "ineffective and discriminatory."
During President Barack Obama's administration, there was a bipartisan effort to review and relax mandatory minimums. However, that is unlikely to regain traction. Eric Holder, the former attorney general under Obama, reiterated Richmond's position in a letter responding to Sessions's.
"The policy announced today is not tough on crime. It is dumb on crime," Holder said. "It is an ideologically motivated, cookie-cutter approach that has only been proven to generate unfairly long sentences that are often applied indiscriminately and do little to achieve long-term public safety."
There is, perhaps, one winner to benefit from Sessions's "seriousness" on crime offensive: the for-profit private prison industry. It's certainly no coincidence that two of Sessions's former Senate aides, David Stewart and Ryan Robichaux, are now lobbyists for GEO Group - a private prison facility. Sessions reversed Obama's directive to suspend government contracts with private prisons back in February, just weeks after he was approved as attorney general.
"You Have Been the Greatest Threat to My Family": Constituents Erupt at Rep. MacArthur
The GOP representative who played a key part in helping the new version of the American Health Care Act (AHCA) pass the House was met with anger, protests, and yelling at a town hall. Representative Tom MacArthur held a five-hour town hall on May 10, where one constituent said MacArthur is "the single greatest threat to my family."
MacArthur, of New Jersey's third congressional district, was a key member in helping the AHCA pass the house with the MacArthur-Meadows Amendment. This amendment would let states get waivers to "weaken several key Obamacare insurance reforms" like the preexisting condition one, reports CNN. Under Obamacare, insurance companies can't discriminate against someone based on their health history. Well, MacArthur's help in crafting this amendment led people to berate him at a town hall.
Two key moments during the town hall quickly went viral. One focused on 17-year-old Daisy Confoy, who asked him whether rape was a preexisting condition. "I will not describe a violent act against a woman as a preexisting condition," he said, reports ThinkProgress. You can watch Confoy talk to MacArthur in a clip ahead.
Tense exchange as woman asks MacArthur if rape is a pre-existing condition in AHCA @NBCPhiladelphia http://pic.twitter.com/X16jnAKFh7
- Drew Smith (@drewsmithtv) May 10, 2017
Another came when medical assistant Geoff Ginter told MacArthur, "You have been the single biggest threat to my family in the entire world." He told MacArthur how his wife beat cancer and his children have preexisting conditions as well. "You are the reason I stay up at night." Watch Ginter's tense speech ahead.
Man angrily tells MacArthur: "You have been the single greatest threat to my family." Says GOP bill was dead until MacArthur resurrected it. http://pic.twitter.com/U1O8vTwVBx
- Dan Diamond (@ddiamond) May 11, 2017
Throughout the town hall, people also yelled "liar" at MacArthur. Some like Derek Reichenbecher reminded him that the bill is only alive because of him. "This is your health care bill. It was dead in the water. It could have stayed dead in the water and now it's the MacArthur Amendment that brought this thing forward," said Reichenbecher, according to NPR.
Before the town hall even started, people were lying on the ground outside of the event, with tombstone-decorated signs that read "Couldn't Afford Asthma Care." Others held posters that said "Killer Tom," and there was even an inflatable chicken that looked like Trump. It should've prepared MacArthur for what was to come.
Protesters holding a "die-in" outside Rep. Tom MacArthur's town hall http://pic.twitter.com/IfxKmzBtKs
- Igor Bobic (@igorbobic) May 10, 2017
At the end of the five-hour town hall, one constituent did thank MacArthur for showing up and letting them "voice [their] concerns."
"You thought you would come here and take a beating. And mostly you did." - Final question at MacArthur town hall comes as he nears 5 hours http://pic.twitter.com/WPVmtsMUPm
- Kira Lerner (@kira_lerner) May 11, 2017
MacArthur will hopefully learn from his constituents and realize that these are the people who voted for him - and will determine whether they vote for him again.
You'll Never Skip a Day of Sunscreen Thanks to These 12 Sephora Bestsellers
We're constantly told to slather on SPF year round to protect our skin. But many women (us included) are guilty of skipping the step because, despite its multiple benefits, traditional SPF doesn't always wear too well on the skin. Many sunscreens have a thick consistency, which leaves your skin oily and creates a slippery canvas for makeup when applied to the face. Sunscreen also tends to leave behind an unflattering white cast, which can translate as chalky in photos (and on people of color), that alone causes most of us to nix SPF altogether.
But the bottom line is: sunscreen is essential for minimizing the risks of skin cancer, sunburn, and hyperpigmentation. So whether you're an SPF devotee or a sunscreen skeptic, we've rounded up some of Sephora's top-rated formulas so you have no more excuses when it comes to protecting your skin. These will guarantee your face is moisturized, guarded, and white-cast free!
35 Badass Mother's Day Gifts For Moms Who Love to Swear
For the mom who calls it like she sees it during the daily sh*tshow that is her life, she deserves the perfect Mother's Day present for keeping it all together. Whether she's been known to slip in a few curse words among the chaos that is motherhood or is a proud f-bomb dropper with a very "colorful" vocabulary, she'll love these equally bold gifts.
Check out these 35 ideas that honor amazing mamas who aren't ashamed of their potty mouths!
19 Spanish-Language Movies to Add to Your Netflix Queue Stat
If you've already binge-watched your favorite telenovelas on Netflix, might we suggest loading up your queue with must-see movies in Spanish?
The popular streaming platform actually has a solid mix of comedies, dramas, and feel-good films, all perfect for when you need a break from episode-heavy shows. Ahead, find 19 titles we'd recommend adding to your list.
- Additional reporting by Alessandra Foresto
The Heroic Way 1 Bus Driver Saved 56 Students From a Devastating Bus Fire
One woman proved once again why bus drivers are everyday heroes when she managed to save all 56 students on board after her school bus caught on fire. Teresa Stroble, from Duncan, SC, kept her composure after two ninth grade students alerted her of smoke coming from the bus. According to a statement from the school district, Stroble was driving the students on their way to Duncan Elementary, Beech Springs Intermediate, and Byrnes Freshman Academy when she quickly yet calmly directed the kids to safety before calling the fire department.
The seven-year veteran driver and teacher assistant is being labeled a hero for her steady and swift action that inevitably led to the safety of every student before the fire ravaged the entire bus. "Hero!! Ms. Teresa Stroble. She evacuated 56 students in under a minute. God bless her. So grateful for her quick action," Superintendent Scott Turner tweeted out. The district also praised the Duncan Fire Department for putting the fire out and "all district administrators who responded and helped with what could have been a very tragic situation."
Read on to see more photos from the destructive bus fire to understand exactly why Stroble is worthy of her praise.
35 Badass Mother's Day Gifts For Moms Who Love to Swear
For the mom who calls it like she sees it during the daily sh*tshow that is her life, she deserves the perfect Mother's Day present for keeping it all together. Whether she's been known to slip in a few curse words among the chaos that is motherhood or is a proud f-bomb dropper with a very "colorful" vocabulary, she'll love these equally bold gifts.
Check out these 35 ideas that honor amazing mamas who aren't ashamed of their potty mouths!
The Ultimate Indie Rock Wedding Playlist
If you're the type of person whose music tastes are a little more eclectic, chances are you're looking for some indie rock songs to play at your wedding. Luckily, we've got you covered so you don't have to search through Spotify to compile the perfect guide. Ahead, you'll find love tunes from your favorite bands and lesser-known names you might not be familiar with. Some are romantic enough for the first dance, and others are a bit more upbeat for other parts of the event. Listen to each song and, if you need more inspiration, check out even more wedding music ideas.
Once Upon a Time: Emma Swan Is Leaving, but She'll Be Back
Emma Swan is saying goodbye to Storybrooke, but we have a hard to imagining that she'll never again appear on Once Upon a Time. After all, she's the heart of the show! While Jennifer Morrison cited the "grueling" schedule of acting on a primetime series as part of the reason for her departure, she also left the door slightly propped open. In a lengthy Instagram post, she wrote that if ABC renews Once Upon a Time for season seven, she has agreed to appear on one episode. Now that ABC has officially renewed the series for a seventh season, you can rest assured that the season six finale is not the last we'll see of Emma. Unfortunately, we can't say the same for Rebecca Mader (Zelena), Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow White), Josh Dallas (Prince Charming), Jared Gilmore (Henry), and Emilie de Ravin (Belle).
Let's Settle the Whole "Can You Wear Red to a Wedding?" Thing Once and For All, Shall We?
If you're on the wedding circuit, you've probably asked - or maybe been asked - this question more than a couple times: can you wear red to a wedding? The short answer is a resounding yes. Why not? The only real color that's traditionally off limits is anything white, ecru, cream, ivory - you get the picture. Still, red's gotten a bad rap since it's, well, bold and bright and maybe a little too attention-getting. And, there's the old Jessica Rabbit comparison to contend with.
That said, red done right is cheery and festive - and a lot of brides are happy to see their guests embracing beautiful color (it happens to look great in wedding photos, too). I, for one, got more compliments on a red Self-Portrait dress I wore to a wedding than anything I've ever worn to weddings before or since. Just stick to some simple dress code guidelines, and like any other outfit you'd choose, make sure your red dress isn't too short, overexposed, or too casual for the event - and you'll get noticed for all of the right reasons.
Let's Settle the Whole "Can You Wear Red to a Wedding?" Thing Once and For All, Shall We?
If you're on the wedding circuit, you've probably asked - or maybe been asked - this question more than a couple times: can you wear red to a wedding? The short answer is a resounding yes. Why not? The only real color that's traditionally off limits is anything white, ecru, cream, ivory - you get the picture. Still, red's gotten a bad rap since it's, well, bold and bright and maybe a little too attention-getting. And, there's the old Jessica Rabbit comparison to contend with.
That said, red done right is cheery and festive - and a lot of brides are happy to see their guests embracing beautiful color (it happens to look great in wedding photos, too). I, for one, got more compliments on a red Self-Portrait dress I wore to a wedding than anything I've ever worn to weddings before or since. Just stick to some simple dress code guidelines, and like any other outfit you'd choose, make sure your red dress isn't too short, overexposed, or too casual for the event - and you'll get noticed for all of the right reasons.
The Ultimate Indie Rock Wedding Playlist
If you're the type of person whose music tastes are a little more eclectic, chances are you're looking for some indie rock songs to play at your wedding. Luckily, we've got you covered so you don't have to search through Spotify to compile the perfect guide. Ahead, you'll find love tunes from your favorite bands and lesser-known names you might not be familiar with. Some are romantic enough for the first dance, and others are a bit more upbeat for other parts of the event. Listen to each song and, if you need more inspiration, check out even more wedding music ideas.
3 Reasons Kids Should Never Open Up Gifts During Their Birthday Party
Growing up, there was always one thing that made my birthday parties different from my friends'. Not the perfectly executed birthday cakes or the elaborate goodie bags (even though these details were always spot on!), but it was part of the party that was always missing: I never opened gifts during the celebration.
Although as a child I didn't understand why was this was my mom's biggest birthday rule, and as I got older it became a part of our party norm so I didn't give it much thought, as an adult I appreciate my mom's present-opening ban. Along with the other meaningful traditions from my childhood that I plan to pass on to my kids, I will also take a note out of my mom's birthday party playbook and won't be letting my children open their gifts at their parties.
Some people skip this part of the event for the sake of convenience (it can be time consuming and messy), but my mom had different reasoning for her stance on gift opening, and this meaningful position taught my siblings and I an important lesson. These are the three reasons kids should wait until after the party to start digging into the pile of gifts.
- It can make other kids feel bad. Birthday parties are supposed to be fun for everyone, not just the birthday kid, and opening gifts in front of everyone creates an opportunity for some guests to feel uncomfortable. There are countless reasons the gift situation could be tricky for other kiddos: whether their parents forgot their gift, couldn't afford to give one, gave less than someone else, opted out for cultural reasons, gave the same thing as someone else, gave something the child already has, or gave exactly what another child wanted, skipping this part of the party can help keep jealousy and discomfort away from the bash.
- It puts the focus on presents. A birthday party should be centered around spending time with friends and not just what you get out of it. Keeping the focus on making memories with guests and not on what they brought reinforces what your little one should prioritize. This will help keep them from zeroing in on what a guest brought from the time they walk in and comparing packages from different friends. Plus, once they start unwrapping things, it's hard to switch the focus back to the party and away from their new loot.
- It puts pressure on the kids. Although it's important for a child to learn how to graciously accept gifts, there are other ways to teach this without putting them on the spot in front of potentially dozens of people. Even if a child is perfectly polite, it's hard to hide the difference between genuine excitement and just good manners. This can make the kid with a "mediocre" gift feel bad while also putting pressure on your child to consistently have an even response and reining in pure joy over a major surprise. Also, if your child happened to be upset about a particular gift (hey, it happens), at least that reaction isn't seen by the other kiddos.
Here's When It's OK to Work Out Sick, According to a Doctor
There are plenty of reasons why someone would want to skip a workout, like being busy with other things, hungover, or just straight-up tired. Maybe the best reason of them all is that you're sick. But in a culture that celebrates people who push themselves to the very limit (sometimes when it shouldn't), you might feel guilty for taking a break. When it comes to exercising, it can be hard to tell when a cough or sneeze warrants a rest day . . . or two or three. That's why we talked to Darla Klokeid, MD, a Seattle-based family medicine physician at One Medical, to tell us when it's OK to grab your Lululemon leggings and when a day binge-watching Netflix is totally necessary.
When Should You Absolutely Not Work Out When You're Sick?
"A no go is if you have a fever," Klokeid said. "Exercise can actually decrease your immunity, so when you're in the fever stage of illness and you exercise, you're hurting your body's ability to defeat it," she continued. Body aches are another sign to hang up the Nikes for a while because exercise will make you feel even worse. Shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting are all other red flags that you need to stay in bed.
So Does That Mean That You Can Work Out If It's Just a Cold?
In the best-case scenario, people won't work out at all when they're sick, even with a cold, Klokeid said. You give yourself a better chance of bouncing back by resting during illness. But if you're going to exercise, "The rule of thumb I use is above the neck. If you have congestion and a runny nose and you don't have a fever, I think it's fine," she explained. However, the initial three to four days of a cold is prime time for your body to fight off the illness. So if you're itching to get back to the gym on the fifth day of your cold, consider this a green light.
If You're Feeling Under the Weather, What Kinds of Exercises Should You Steer Clear Of?
Sorry, runners and CrossFitters! "The more vigorous [the exercise], the more stress on your immune system," Klokeid said. The aim is to keep stress on your sick body to a minimum. So lower the intensity of your usual workout and avoid the hardcore stuff. Walking on the treadmill and yoga are good options.
Is It Better to Stick With More Cardio or Weight Training When You're Sick?
"Weight training is slightly better for you, but it still stresses the body, but not the same as cardio," Klokeid explained, adding that weight training can make your muscle pain worse. Working closely in sports medicine, Klokeid said that she's heard even the fittest of athletes say that they felt the soreness for longer and were more tired following their workouts while sick.
Is There Anything Extra You Should Do Before, During, or After a Workout When Sick?
Hydration is key during and after a sweat sesh, and the same is especially so when you're not feeling so great. "I think it's a fantastic idea to plug in some rest time during your workout," Klokeid said. Think about taking time to rest between your exercises. Listen to your body - if it's sick, it's trying to tell you something (and the message probably isn't to go run five miles). If you're someone who is eligible to take ibuprofen, 600 mg after a workout can help you feel better, according to Klokeid.
How Do You Know That Your Fever Is Gone For Good and You Can Work Out?
"Ideally, give yourself at least two days, three or four preferable, before working out, off of fever reducers," Klokeid said, noting that the body is trying to heal itself and you should cut yourself a break. "Your body needs you to work with it, not against it," she said.
Is There Anything Else That We Should Know?
"I think a lot of people contract respiratory infections at the gym," Klokeid cautioned. Think about all of the people you roll your eyes at for not wiping down their machine at the gym (gross, we know). But even if just one of them is sick, he or she could be spreading illness. So think of skipping the gym as a favor to your immune system and everyone else.
Once Upon a Time: Emma Swan Is Leaving, but She'll Be Back
Emma Swan is saying goodbye to Storybrooke, but we have a hard to imagining that she'll never again appear on Once Upon a Time. After all, she's the heart of the show! While Jennifer Morrison cited the "grueling" schedule of acting on a primetime series as part of the reason for her departure, she also left the door slightly propped open. In a lengthy Instagram post, she wrote that if ABC renews Once Upon a Time for season seven, she has agreed to appear on one episode. Now that ABC has officially renewed the series for a seventh season, you can rest assured that the season six finale is not the last we'll see of Emma. Unfortunately, we can't say the same for Rebecca Mader (Zelena), Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow White), Josh Dallas (Prince Charming), Jared Gilmore (Henry), and Emilie de Ravin (Belle).
3 Reasons Kids Should Never Open Up Gifts During Their Birthday Party
Growing up, there was always one thing that made my birthday parties different from my friends'. Not the perfectly executed birthday cakes or the elaborate goodie bags (even though these details were always spot on!), but it was part of the party that was always missing: I never opened gifts during the celebration.
Although as a child I didn't understand why was this was my mom's biggest birthday rule, and as I got older it became a part of our party norm so I didn't give it much thought, as an adult I appreciate my mom's present-opening ban. Along with the other meaningful traditions from my childhood that I plan to pass on to my kids, I will also take a note out of my mom's birthday party playbook and won't be letting my children open their gifts at their parties.
Some people skip this part of the event for the sake of convenience (it can be time consuming and messy), but my mom had different reasoning for her stance on gift opening, and this meaningful position taught my siblings and I an important lesson. These are the three reasons kids should wait until after the party to start digging into the pile of gifts.
- It can make other kids feel bad. Birthday parties are supposed to be fun for everyone, not just the birthday kid, and opening gifts in front of everyone creates an opportunity for some guests to feel uncomfortable. There are countless reasons the gift situation could be tricky for other kiddos: whether their parents forgot their gift, couldn't afford to give one, gave less than someone else, opted out for cultural reasons, gave the same thing as someone else, gave something the child already has, or gave exactly what another child wanted, skipping this part of the party can help keep jealousy and discomfort away from the bash.
- It puts the focus on presents. A birthday party should be centered around spending time with friends and not just what you get out of it. Keeping the focus on making memories with guests and not on what they brought reinforces what your little one should prioritize. This will help keep them from zeroing in on what a guest brought from the time they walk in and comparing packages from different friends. Plus, once they start unwrapping things, it's hard to switch the focus back to the party and away from their new loot.
- It puts pressure on the kids. Although it's important for a child to learn how to graciously accept gifts, there are other ways to teach this without putting them on the spot in front of potentially dozens of people. Even if a child is perfectly polite, it's hard to hide the difference between genuine excitement and just good manners. This can make the kid with a "mediocre" gift feel bad while also putting pressure on your child to consistently have an even response and reining in pure joy over a major surprise. Also, if your child happened to be upset about a particular gift (hey, it happens), at least that reaction isn't seen by the other kiddos.
Here's When It's OK to Work Out Sick, According to a Doctor
There are plenty of reasons why someone would want to skip a workout, like being busy with other things, hungover, or just straight-up tired. Maybe the best reason of them all is that you're sick. But in a culture that celebrates people who push themselves to the very limit (sometimes when it shouldn't), you might feel guilty for taking a break. When it comes to exercising, it can be hard to tell when a cough or sneeze warrants a rest day . . . or two or three. That's why we talked to Darla Klokeid, MD, a Seattle-based family medicine physician at One Medical, to tell us when it's OK to grab your Lululemon leggings and when a day binge-watching Netflix is totally necessary.
When Should You Absolutely Not Work Out When You're Sick?
"A no go is if you have a fever," Klokeid said. "Exercise can actually decrease your immunity, so when you're in the fever stage of illness and you exercise, you're hurting your body's ability to defeat it," she continued. Body aches are another sign to hang up the Nikes for a while because exercise will make you feel even worse. Shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting are all other red flags that you need to stay in bed.
So Does That Mean That You Can Work Out If It's Just a Cold?
In the best-case scenario, people won't work out at all when they're sick, even with a cold, Klokeid said. You give yourself a better chance of bouncing back by resting during illness. But if you're going to exercise, "The rule of thumb I use is above the neck. If you have congestion and a runny nose and you don't have a fever, I think it's fine," she explained. However, the initial three to four days of a cold is prime time for your body to fight off the illness. So if you're itching to get back to the gym on the fifth day of your cold, consider this a green light.
If You're Feeling Under the Weather, What Kinds of Exercises Should You Steer Clear Of?
Sorry, runners and CrossFitters! "The more vigorous [the exercise], the more stress on your immune system," Klokeid said. The aim is to keep stress on your sick body to a minimum. So lower the intensity of your usual workout and avoid the hardcore stuff. Walking on the treadmill and yoga are good options.
Is It Better to Stick With More Cardio or Weight Training When You're Sick?
"Weight training is slightly better for you, but it still stresses the body, but not the same as cardio," Klokeid explained, adding that weight training can make your muscle pain worse. Working closely in sports medicine, Klokeid said that she's heard even the fittest of athletes say that they felt the soreness for longer and were more tired following their workouts while sick.
Is There Anything Extra You Should Do Before, During, or After a Workout When Sick?
Hydration is key during and after a sweat sesh, and the same is especially so when you're not feeling so great. "I think it's a fantastic idea to plug in some rest time during your workout," Klokeid said. Think about taking time to rest between your exercises. Listen to your body - if it's sick, it's trying to tell you something (and the message probably isn't to go run five miles). If you're someone who is eligible to take ibuprofen, 600 mg after a workout can help you feel better, according to Klokeid.
How Do You Know That Your Fever Is Gone For Good and You Can Work Out?
"Ideally, give yourself at least two days, three or four preferable, before working out, off of fever reducers," Klokeid said, noting that the body is trying to heal itself and you should cut yourself a break. "Your body needs you to work with it, not against it," she said.
Is There Anything Else That We Should Know?
"I think a lot of people contract respiratory infections at the gym," Klokeid cautioned. Think about all of the people you roll your eyes at for not wiping down their machine at the gym (gross, we know). But even if just one of them is sick, he or she could be spreading illness. So think of skipping the gym as a favor to your immune system and everyone else.
Mom's Message After Overhearing a Parent at Chick-Fil-A Talk About Her Boy With Disabilities
After a potentially painful and uncomfortable encounter, Leah Carroll has a message to the mom-of-three who was at Chick-fil-A with her three kids. Leah wants this fellow parent to know that she overheard the questions, saw the stares, and was blown away by her response.
"I sensed your panic when your 5-year-old son pointed at my son in his wheelchair and shouted, 'Mom look at THAT boy!'' Leah shared on Love What Matters Facebook page. "You leaned forward and quietly told him and his 3-year-old brother that we don't say things like that and they shouldn't point or stare."
Leah waited because she knew in most cases, telling a child not to stare or question her child's differences doesn't work because young, curious minds have questions that they want answered. "When you realized your whispers weren't working I saw the panic disappear and you took a deep breath and took a step of courage," she wrote. "You brought your boys over to Malachi and said 'I bet he would like to know your names!'"
Leah explained that as they said their names to Malachi, her child started grinning and chatting with the kids and that this interaction was more important than this amazing mom could've realized.
The joy on his face brought tears to my eyes- he loves kids his age but so many are fearful to come and speak to him. Your boys continued to ask questions about his foot braces, his wheelchair, why his legs don't work, why he holds his mouth open like that.
You took the time to educate your sons in that moment and help them understand that different is okay. Different is not something to fear. And that it was okay to ask questions! Thank you for giving my son a chance to meet your kids.
Thank you for being the type of mom who educates your children instead of frantically trying to silence them. Special needs moms have to develop tough skin - we get used to stares, comments, and whispers. Please know it takes a lot to offend us, particularly when the comments are coming from young children. Give your kids the same grace we give them and use the opportunity to teach them about differences.
So Chick-Fil-A mom, thank you for raising your children to embrace children like Malachi. And thank you for giving my son something to smile about."
Is it a Boy or a Girl? 38 Gender-Neutral Shower Ideas For a Surprise Baby-on-Board!
Once upon a time, waiting to find out a baby's gender meant lots of humdrum yellow and green. But having a "surprise" baby doesn't have to mean sacrificing style when it comes to planning an extra-special shower. We've rounded up 38 of our favorite baby shower themes that are equally apropos for a boy, girl, or surprise little one on the way. From a rustic camping party to a sunny "hello, baby!" soiree, there are plenty of creative ways to honor the very disciplined mama-to-be's willpower to wait!
13 Books to Read If You Loved 13 Reasons Why
Netflix's hit original series, 13 Reasons Why, follows Clay Jensen, a high school student who is given 13 audiotapes from his best friend, Hannah Baker, that explain why she chose to kill herself. As he listens to the tapes, he uncovers shocking secrets about Hannah and his other classmates. The show, which features Selena Gomez as an executive producer, is based off of Jay Asher's 2007 YA novel of the same name. The narrative delves into complex issues such as bullying, sexual assault, suicide, betrayal, and more. For similar stories, check out these other captivating novels.
22 Juicy Facts About Zara, Straight From an Insider Employee
We all want the insider scoop on our favorite places. For us, that's not an eatery or Disneyland - it's Zara. Fashion girls know this is the hot spot for trendy, affordable pieces, but beyond that, everything else is pretty much a mystery. We have questions like "When are the sales?" and "What are the most popular items?" For this insider information, I decided tap my friend (who wished to remain anonymous) who is a sales associate at Zara in NYC. She's been working at the store for four years, so you can bet she has a lot of shopping secrets to share. Read on for all the juicy details.
Perfectly Preppy Workout Wear From Tory Burch’s Active Line
In case you missed it, the boom in activewear has opened up a world of stylish possibilities for athletes of all kind - whether you're a runner, yogi, golfer, or tennis-lover or you just love the athleisure style. You no longer have to look scrubby when you go to the gym (unless, of course, that's your thing . . . no shame in that). Luxury brands like Tory Burch are fully on board for an active life that doesn't compromise fashion sense - and the Tory Sport line is proof.
To be honest, whittling down to our favorite styles was impossibly difficult, because everything on its site is SO ridiculously cute. And these pieces aren't just pretty - they're ultrasoft, comfortable, and figure flattering. We have a couple of these styles ourselves, and they've held up in hot yoga, SoulCycle, and Barry's Bootcamp.
Not a gym bunny? That's cool, too - this collection is geared toward ladies who love classic sports like swimming, golfing, tennis, and more. And if you're trying to rock a sporty look in the office, this collection is ideal. Scroll through our favorites, but definitely take some time to check out the sweaters and dresses, too. Apologies in advance to any damage we may have just inflicted upon your bank account.
18 Celebrity Chefs Share the Healthy Recipes They Eat at Home
When it comes to lightened-up cuisine (that's actually good, not just good for you), who better to consult than the pros? This crowd knows picky eaters - considering they've cooked for mega stars for years or happen to be one. So when you want to trim the fat but not the flavor, whip up one of their guilt-free and 100 percent tasty salads, sides, and mains. Not only will you be eating well, but you'll earn serious bonus points for scoring their top-secret recipes when you make them for your crew.
How a Mother and Daughter Bonded After a Brutal Acid Attack
It was in Rajasthan, India where I met an awe inspiring bundle of positivity in the form of a woman named Rani Raul. At only 23, she had already survived what seemed unsurvivable: 80 percent of her body had been burned when a man she had refused to marry had thrown acid at her. She spent nine months in an ICU, then fell into a coma for five years. Yet here she was, sitting in front of me at Sheroes Cafe in Udaipur.
As one of the estimated 1000 people a year in India to be attacked with acid, Rani not only made it through to survive, but she has found herself a job - no small feat for an acid attack survivor - at Sheroes Hangout. The chain of cafes in India is run entirely by acid attack survivors.
After a really hard interview with Rani - admittedly hard for me, not for her - she asked that the portrait of her we had discussed taking be taken with her mother. It was then that I realized that the quiet woman sitting in the back of the room was Rani's mom, Kavita. Turns out, Kavita goes with Rani just about everywhere. The result of Rani's attack left her not only disfigured, but blind, as well. Sheroes has even given a job to Kavita so she can work alongside her daughter every day.
One wonders, how can such attacks happen? Why? Unfortunately, Rani's attacker had an all-too-common reason used to excuse these atrocious attacks. Simply: she denied his advances. He wanted to marry her. She was under age and wanted to get her education, so she asked him to wait. He said no. As incredible as it is to believe, that is it. He harassed her over the course of a year, telling her family he would stop at nothing; but no one expected he would go this far.
So, this lovely girl who has gone through more than I will in a lifetime is now sitting across from me with an incredibly bright smile, thankful for an opportunity to tell her story. My guess is that this brightness - and as I will soon find out, this optimism - comes in large part due to the special bond Rani shares with her mother.
Support and acceptance from family is one of, if not the most important thing that can lead to a positive quality of life after an acid attack. The women and girls I met who have their mother or sisters (and so far, this has not proven to be something you can count on) seem vastly more positive about their futures and happier in the present. Many women who survive acid attacks are spurned by their families and communities. But despite being ostracized from much of society, survivors who have family by their side seem to feel hope.
"I can't see from my eyes but I am very strong and I can do anything," Rani tells me. Rani proudly adds that she types on her phone faster than anyone else she knows. "When I retain my sight, I plan to be the best computer programmer there is," she says, "and I will always be connected to Sheroes because they helped me. The friends that I've made and the mindset of helping people in need at Sheroes is what I appreciate the most."
Rani's mother, however, is clearly carrying a great deal of grief. After we did our mini photoshoot we sat down to talk. Kavita rolled up her sleeves to reveal scars of her own. The acid eating away at Rani's skin boiled over onto Kavita's as she tried to bring her daughter to safety. "I just want for Rani to get a little bit of eyesight back and if she can see she will do well," she tells me. "That's all I want." At one point in the interview, Rani smiles at her mom, and says to me: "She is always crying".
Toward the end of the interview, Kavita got up quickly and went into the other room. She wanted to show me a photograph of her daughter before she became quite literally unrecognizable. She handed it to me with a sense of pride. Very quickly her smile fell. Kavita covered her face and began to cry.
I felt instantly connected to, and at ease with, these women - but moments like these, when a mother shows me a photograph, and we both look at a youthful full of life face shining back, I simply don't know what to say.
The only solace I have is that it feels clear when my translator Dushyant and I went to the cafe that there was a great happiness there. We did not need to do anything or even say anything. Sitting there in the cafe and simply having a cup of coffee really felt like we were somehow becoming part of a community of women doing incredible things every day, however small, however briefly.
The NGO that is responsible for Sheroes, Stop Acid Attacks, is currently raising funds for Rani's eye surgeries. If you would like to learn more and perhaps contribute to Rani's cause, please check out the link at Generosity.
Someone Made Cutouts of Sean Spicer to Place in Bushes and It's Too Good
If you're in the mood to make some political commentary with any shrubs around your house, you can now follow one person's lead and try it with a cutout of Sean Spicer's face. Meet "Garden Spicer," cutouts of Sean Spicer's face ready to be placed in among any bush or shrub near you.
Lisa Kadonaga made cutouts of Spicer's face to put in any bushes and wrote about it in a Facebook post. In the post, which has more than 15,000 reactions, 35,000 shares, and 2,000 comments, she writes "Presenting the "Garden Spicer". . . . Now you too can have the White House press secretary in - or rather, "among" - the bushes in your yard." You can read the full post ahead.
Presenting the "Garden Spicer". Here's something I made this afternoon. Now you too can have the White House press...
Posted by Lisa Kadonaga on Thursday, May 11, 2017
The story about Spicer hiding in some bushes near the White House begins on May 9. Spicer tried to dodge questions about President Trump's firing of former FBI director, James Comey, by going towards some bushes. The story, which was almost too ridiculous to believe, was further corrected by The Washington Post on May 10 to say Spicer wasn't hiding in the bushes but among them.
The internet quickly poked fun at the entire situation and Spicer's behavior, which makes it no surprise that someone created the "Garden Spicer." Kadonaga warns that the "image will run" if it's placed outside, but it's "exactly what Sean Spicer does, so it's totally authentic!" She also writes that she "can easily make more," so if you really want one for your own home, it might actually be possible.
Perfectly Preppy Workout Wear From Tory Burch’s Active Line
In case you missed it, the boom in activewear has opened up a world of stylish possibilities for athletes of all kind - whether you're a runner, yogi, golfer, or tennis-lover or you just love the athleisure style. You no longer have to look scrubby when you go to the gym (unless, of course, that's your thing . . . no shame in that). Luxury brands like Tory Burch are fully on board for an active life that doesn't compromise fashion sense - and the Tory Sport line is proof.
To be honest, whittling down to our favorite styles was impossibly difficult, because everything on its site is SO ridiculously cute. And these pieces aren't just pretty - they're ultrasoft, comfortable, and figure flattering. We have a couple of these styles ourselves, and they've held up in hot yoga, SoulCycle, and Barry's Bootcamp.
Not a gym bunny? That's cool, too - this collection is geared toward ladies who love classic sports like swimming, golfing, tennis, and more. And if you're trying to rock a sporty look in the office, this collection is ideal. Scroll through our favorites, but definitely take some time to check out the sweaters and dresses, too. Apologies in advance to any damage we may have just inflicted upon your bank account.
18 Celebrity Chefs Share the Healthy Recipes They Eat at Home
When it comes to lightened-up cuisine (that's actually good, not just good for you), who better to consult than the pros? This crowd knows picky eaters - considering they've cooked for mega stars for years or happen to be one. So when you want to trim the fat but not the flavor, whip up one of their guilt-free and 100 percent tasty salads, sides, and mains. Not only will you be eating well, but you'll earn serious bonus points for scoring their top-secret recipes when you make them for your crew.
How a Mother and Daughter Bonded After a Brutal Acid Attack
It was in Rajasthan, India where I met an awe inspiring bundle of positivity in the form of a woman named Rani Raul. At only 23, she had already survived what seemed unsurvivable: 80 percent of her body had been burned when a man she had refused to marry had thrown acid at her. She spent nine months in an ICU, then fell into a coma for five years. Yet here she was, sitting in front of me at Sheroes Cafe in Udaipur.
As one of the estimated 1000 people a year in India to be attacked with acid, Rani not only made it through to survive, but she has found herself a job - no small feat for an acid attack survivor - at Sheroes Hangout. The chain of cafes in India is run entirely by acid attack survivors.
After a really hard interview with Rani - admittedly hard for me, not for her - she asked that the portrait of her we had discussed taking be taken with her mother. It was then that I realized that the quiet woman sitting in the back of the room was Rani's mom, Kavita. Turns out, Kavita goes with Rani just about everywhere. The result of Rani's attack left her not only disfigured, but blind, as well. Sheroes has even given a job to Kavita so she can work alongside her daughter every day.
One wonders, how can such attacks happen? Why? Unfortunately, Rani's attacker had an all-too-common reason used to excuse these atrocious attacks. Simply: she denied his advances. He wanted to marry her. She was under age and wanted to get her education, so she asked him to wait. He said no. As incredible as it is to believe, that is it. He harassed her over the course of a year, telling her family he would stop at nothing; but no one expected he would go this far.
So, this lovely girl who has gone through more than I will in a lifetime is now sitting across from me with an incredibly bright smile, thankful for an opportunity to tell her story. My guess is that this brightness - and as I will soon find out, this optimism - comes in large part due to the special bond Rani shares with her mother.
Support and acceptance from family is one of, if not the most important thing that can lead to a positive quality of life after an acid attack. The women and girls I met who have their mother or sisters (and so far, this has not proven to be something you can count on) seem vastly more positive about their futures and happier in the present. Many women who survive acid attacks are spurned by their families and communities. But despite being ostracized from much of society, survivors who have family by their side seem to feel hope.
"I can't see from my eyes but I am very strong and I can do anything," Rani tells me. Rani proudly adds that she types on her phone faster than anyone else she knows. "When I retain my sight, I plan to be the best computer programmer there is," she says, "and I will always be connected to Sheroes because they helped me. The friends that I've made and the mindset of helping people in need at Sheroes is what I appreciate the most."
Rani's mother, however, is clearly carrying a great deal of grief. After we did our mini photoshoot we sat down to talk. Kavita rolled up her sleeves to reveal scars of her own. The acid eating away at Rani's skin boiled over onto Kavita's as she tried to bring her daughter to safety. "I just want for Rani to get a little bit of eyesight back and if she can see she will do well," she tells me. "That's all I want." At one point in the interview, Rani smiles at her mom, and says to me: "She is always crying".
Toward the end of the interview, Kavita got up quickly and went into the other room. She wanted to show me a photograph of her daughter before she became quite literally unrecognizable. She handed it to me with a sense of pride. Very quickly her smile fell. Kavita covered her face and began to cry.
I felt instantly connected to, and at ease with, these women - but moments like these, when a mother shows me a photograph, and we both look at a youthful full of life face shining back, I simply don't know what to say.
The only solace I have is that it feels clear when my translator Dushyant and I went to the cafe that there was a great happiness there. We did not need to do anything or even say anything. Sitting there in the cafe and simply having a cup of coffee really felt like we were somehow becoming part of a community of women doing incredible things every day, however small, however briefly.
The NGO that is responsible for Sheroes, Stop Acid Attacks, is currently raising funds for Rani's eye surgeries. If you would like to learn more and perhaps contribute to Rani's cause, please check out the link at Generosity.
Watch Shakira and Gerard Pique's Love Story in the "Me Enamoré" Music Video
Stop whatever you are doing and watch Shakira and Gerard Piqué's love story in her new music video for "Me Enamoré." The video, shot from Gerard's perspective shows the Colombian singer through his eyes, from waking up together after a wild night to an impromptu food fight, and all the way to a sweet kiss.
The two have been together for six years and have to two sons together, but have always kept their relationship semi private until now, since it looks like Shakira's new album El Dorado will feature more details about their love story.
13 Books to Read If You Loved 13 Reasons Why
Netflix's hit original series, 13 Reasons Why, follows Clay Jensen, a high school student who is given 13 audiotapes from his best friend, Hannah Baker, that explain why she chose to kill herself. As he listens to the tapes, he uncovers shocking secrets about Hannah and his other classmates. The show, which features Selena Gomez as an executive producer, is based off of Jay Asher's 2007 YA novel of the same name. The narrative delves into complex issues such as bullying, sexual assault, suicide, betrayal, and more. For similar stories, check out these other captivating novels.
What Does the Queen Have For Breakfast? Get a Peek Into Life Behind Palace Doors
Image Source: Getty / Handout
The queen has always maintained a dignified silence when it comes to her home life - she never gives interviews and rarely discloses even the tiniest tidbit of personal information - but a glance at the 800 or so companies that hold Royal Warrants provides a wealth of detail about her majesty's private life. A Royal Warrant is an official mark of recognition that is granted to any company that has provided the queen with goods or services for five years or more, and it allows the company to display the queen's coat of arms on its packaging and promotional materials. Prince Philip and Prince Charles are the only other two members of the family who can grant a Royal Warrant, but the most telling are those companies that provide the queen with everything from agricultural machinery to marzipan and lipsticks to helicopter engines.
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Breakfast
Cereal is the queen's breakfast of champions, and her choices are reassuringly traditional. Kellogg's, Weetabix, and Quaker Oats all hold a Royal Warrant, and the various cereals are kept in Tupperware containers to keep them fresh. Her majesty's morning tea of choice? Twinings English Breakfast; milk, no sugar.
Drinks
If one was ever to find oneself at a cocktail party at Buckingham Palace, it's good to know what will be served - and for the most part it's not as fancy as you might expect. Gordon's gin, Pimm's, Bacardi, and Bulmers cider are all warrant holders; however, there are numerous suppliers of fine wines and eight different Champagne producers including Bollinger, Krug, Lanson, and Winston Churchill's favorite, Pol Roger (which was also served at William and Kate's wedding).
Beauty Favorites
The queen has been a fan of Clarins ever since her coronation, when she commissioned the company to design a shade of lipstick to complement her gown. It has been reported that she favors its Ever Matte Mineral Powder Compact in Transparent Fair and Hand and Nail Treatment Cream, as well as its eye shadow palettes.
Elizabeth Arden has been a Royal Warrant holder for 55 years, and two of the queen's favorite products are the Eight Hour Cream and Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick in Bold Red. Her majesty favors Floris perfume and Bronnley soap, as well as quintessential British brand Yardley and the more modern Molton Brown.
Image Source: Getty / Hulton Archive
Eco-Wares
Prince Charles is known for championing environmentally friendly products, but the queen is quietly also big on eco-fare. She uses a number of green warrant-holders including Delphis Eco, which provides environmentally friendly cleaning products, and Agri-cycle, which uses agricultural waste such as spray cans, fertilizer bags, and shrink wrap and recycles it into furniture, flooring, and containers.
The Everyday vs. the Extraordinary
The queen is known for having pretty simple tastes when it comes to what she eats at home, and her wartime upbringing is reflected in her unfussy style - so it's no surprise that she has Heinz ketchup, Ryvita crackers, Baxters soups, and Robinsons fruit squashes at home. She's also a fan of British High Street favorite Boots the Chemist. However, she is a monarch, and the mind-boggling roster of Royal Warrant holders also includes gold-leaf manufacturers, medal makers, chandelier refurbishers, animal pregnancy scanners, calligraphers, silk flower crafters, name-badge makers, helicopter engine manufacturers, and even a taxidermist.
British Artisanal Produce
The royal family are all big supporters of local produce, and many of the queen's choices are very specific - bacon from Denhay Farms, sausages from Musk's, eggs from Noble Foods, jam from Wilkin & Sons, and coffee from H.R. Higgins. It's a good thing she doesn't have to do the shopping herself - a simple cooked breakfast would take a whole day to accumulate.
Image Source: Getty / Arthur Edwards
Interior Design
When it comes to furnishing her properties, the queen unsurprisingly opts for luxury, tradition, and history, choosing AW Hainsworth for fabrics, Sanderson for wallpaper, Albert E. Chapman for curtains, and Heirlooms for fine linens. Charles Farris provides beeswax church candles, and in a strange quirk, A Nash supplies old-fashioned Harry Potter-style brooms for the royal sweeping. Her majesty also likes using philanthropic organizations and purchases mattresses from Glencraft - 70 percent of whose workforce is made up of people with disabilities.
Phones, Laptops, and Tablets
The queen Skypes with various members of her family and tweets to her many fans - and now we know how. Her majesty is clearly an Android kind of lady, as Samsung is listed as a Royal Warrant holder.
Sweet Treats
The queen loves chocolate (and always gives it up for Lent), but on the other 325 days of the year, she has her pick of the everyday supermarket brands Cadbury and Nestlé, along with the more high-end Charbonnel et Walker, Prestat, and Bendicks - which specializes in after-dinner mints.
Image Source: Getty / WPA Pool
The Best of the Rest
Undergarments: Quaintly billed as "corsetieres" on the Royal Warrant holders website, the incredibly fancy Rigby & Peller is the one entrusted with creating the queen's intimates. It has also been reported that the Duchess of Cambridge has called upon the services of the company, too.
Holistic health: The queen is a traditionalist in many ways, yet Ainsworths Homeopathic Pharmacy has a Royal Warrant - so it seems the queen is also a fan of alternative therapies.
Christmas supplies: When William, Kate, George, and Charlotte gather with the rest of the family at Sandringham, they will be tearing open traditional metallic foiled wrapping paper and pulling bespoke crackers from specialist Christmas wares company Tom Smith.
2017 Will Be Extra Exciting For These Pregnant Stars
We're all hoping for good things in 2017, but some stars are expecting more than just success and happiness - they're also expecting babies. Beyoncé announced her pregnancy - with twins - in February, as did George and Amal Clooney, and they join a crop of other stars with buns in the oven. From first-time moms like Lauren Conrad and Whitney Port to public figures like Amal Clooney and Princess Sofia, who are on their second bundles of joy, it's going to be a pretty fun year.
29 Telenovelas to Add to Your Netflix Queue Right Now
Gone are the days when you had to remember to put a blank tape in your VHS player to record your nightly novelas. Now you can DVR them and, even better, stream some of your favorites on Netflix - with English subtitles.
Whether you're in the mood for an oldie but goodie (Thalia's María la del Barrio, perhaps?) or a relatively recent drama (the ever popular El Hotel de los Secretos), Netflix has a surprising amount of Spanish-language TV at your binge-watching disposal.
Ready to set up camp? Prepare your queue, and keep scrolling for a list of shows you should add ASAP.
- Additional reporting by Alessandra Foresto
Is it a Boy or a Girl? 38 Gender-Neutral Shower Ideas For a Surprise Baby-on-Board!
Once upon a time, waiting to find out a baby's gender meant lots of humdrum yellow and green. But having a "surprise" baby doesn't have to mean sacrificing style when it comes to planning an extra-special shower. We've rounded up 38 of our favorite baby shower themes that are equally apropos for a boy, girl, or surprise little one on the way. From a rustic camping party to a sunny "hello, baby!" soiree, there are plenty of creative ways to honor the very disciplined mama-to-be's willpower to wait!
What Does the Queen Have For Breakfast? Get a Peek Into Life Behind Palace Doors
Image Source: Getty / Handout
The queen has always maintained a dignified silence when it comes to her home life - she never gives interviews and rarely discloses even the tiniest tidbit of personal information - but a glance at the 800 or so companies that hold Royal Warrants provides a wealth of detail about her majesty's private life. A Royal Warrant is an official mark of recognition that is granted to any company that has provided the queen with goods or services for five years or more, and it allows the company to display the queen's coat of arms on its packaging and promotional materials. Prince Philip and Prince Charles are the only other two members of the family who can grant a Royal Warrant, but the most telling are those companies that provide the queen with everything from agricultural machinery to marzipan and lipsticks to helicopter engines.
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Breakfast
Cereal is the queen's breakfast of champions, and her choices are reassuringly traditional. Kellogg's, Weetabix, and Quaker Oats all hold a Royal Warrant, and the various cereals are kept in Tupperware containers to keep them fresh. Her majesty's morning tea of choice? Twinings English Breakfast; milk, no sugar.
Drinks
If one was ever to find oneself at a cocktail party at Buckingham Palace, it's good to know what will be served - and for the most part it's not as fancy as you might expect. Gordon's gin, Pimm's, Bacardi, and Bulmers cider are all warrant holders; however, there are numerous suppliers of fine wines and eight different Champagne producers including Bollinger, Krug, Lanson, and Winston Churchill's favorite, Pol Roger (which was also served at William and Kate's wedding).
Beauty Favorites
The queen has been a fan of Clarins ever since her coronation, when she commissioned the company to design a shade of lipstick to complement her gown. It has been reported that she favors its Ever Matte Mineral Powder Compact in Transparent Fair and Hand and Nail Treatment Cream, as well as its eye shadow palettes.
Elizabeth Arden has been a Royal Warrant holder for 55 years, and two of the queen's favorite products are the Eight Hour Cream and Beautiful Color Moisturizing Lipstick in Bold Red. Her majesty favors Floris perfume and Bronnley soap, as well as quintessential British brand Yardley and the more modern Molton Brown.
Image Source: Getty / Hulton Archive
Eco-Wares
Prince Charles is known for championing environmentally friendly products, but the queen is quietly also big on eco-fare. She uses a number of green warrant-holders including Delphis Eco, which provides environmentally friendly cleaning products, and Agri-cycle, which uses agricultural waste such as spray cans, fertilizer bags, and shrink wrap and recycles it into furniture, flooring, and containers.
The Everyday vs. the Extraordinary
The queen is known for having pretty simple tastes when it comes to what she eats at home, and her wartime upbringing is reflected in her unfussy style - so it's no surprise that she has Heinz ketchup, Ryvita crackers, Baxters soups, and Robinsons fruit squashes at home. She's also a fan of British High Street favorite Boots the Chemist. However, she is a monarch, and the mind-boggling roster of Royal Warrant holders also includes gold-leaf manufacturers, medal makers, chandelier refurbishers, animal pregnancy scanners, calligraphers, silk flower crafters, name-badge makers, helicopter engine manufacturers, and even a taxidermist.
British Artisanal Produce
The royal family are all big supporters of local produce, and many of the queen's choices are very specific - bacon from Denhay Farms, sausages from Musk's, eggs from Noble Foods, jam from Wilkin & Sons, and coffee from H.R. Higgins. It's a good thing she doesn't have to do the shopping herself - a simple cooked breakfast would take a whole day to accumulate.
Image Source: Getty / Arthur Edwards
Interior Design
When it comes to furnishing her properties, the queen unsurprisingly opts for luxury, tradition, and history, choosing AW Hainsworth for fabrics, Sanderson for wallpaper, Albert E. Chapman for curtains, and Heirlooms for fine linens. Charles Farris provides beeswax church candles, and in a strange quirk, A Nash supplies old-fashioned Harry Potter-style brooms for the royal sweeping. Her majesty also likes using philanthropic organizations and purchases mattresses from Glencraft - 70 percent of whose workforce is made up of people with disabilities.
Phones, Laptops, and Tablets
The queen Skypes with various members of her family and tweets to her many fans - and now we know how. Her majesty is clearly an Android kind of lady, as Samsung is listed as a Royal Warrant holder.
Sweet Treats
The queen loves chocolate (and always gives it up for Lent), but on the other 325 days of the year, she has her pick of the everyday supermarket brands Cadbury and Nestlé, along with the more high-end Charbonnel et Walker, Prestat, and Bendicks - which specializes in after-dinner mints.
Image Source: Getty / WPA Pool
The Best of the Rest
Undergarments: Quaintly billed as "corsetieres" on the Royal Warrant holders website, the incredibly fancy Rigby & Peller is the one entrusted with creating the queen's intimates. It has also been reported that the Duchess of Cambridge has called upon the services of the company, too.
Holistic health: The queen is a traditionalist in many ways, yet Ainsworths Homeopathic Pharmacy has a Royal Warrant - so it seems the queen is also a fan of alternative therapies.
Christmas supplies: When William, Kate, George, and Charlotte gather with the rest of the family at Sandringham, they will be tearing open traditional metallic foiled wrapping paper and pulling bespoke crackers from specialist Christmas wares company Tom Smith.
Watch Shakira and Gerard Pique's Love Story in the "Me Enamoré" Music Video
Stop whatever you are doing and watch Shakira and Gerard Piqué's love story in her new music video for "Me Enamoré." The video, shot from Gerard's perspective shows the Colombian singer through his eyes, from waking up together after a wild night to an impromptu food fight, and all the way to a sweet kiss.
The two have been together for six years and have to two sons together, but have always kept their relationship semi private until now, since it looks like Shakira's new album El Dorado will feature more details about their love story.
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