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.
jeudi 1 juin 2017
Excited for Wonder Woman? Brush Up on Her Story From the Comics
The long-awaited film adaptation of DC's Wonder Woman hits theaters on June 2. As the character has been around since the 1940s, the original source material is predictably chock-full of various characters, storylines, and all kinds of other information that can seem intimidating to get through. Don't quite know where to begin? If you want to brush up on your Wonder Woman knowledge before catching the movie this Summer, here are some highlights from the comics.
Origin Story
Wonder Woman's classic origin story is heavily rooted in Greek mythology. She is the daughter of Hippolyta, Queen of an Amazon-occupied island called Themyscria (or, earlier on, Paradise Island). Hippolyta, who wishes for a child, forms her out of clay from the shores. The gods of Olympus then bring the clay to life as Diana and bless her with gifts, such as beauty, strength, wisdom, speed, and flight. Her superhuman abilities assist her in her role as an emissary in Man's World. In the New 52 reboot (DC's 2011 relaunch) and the DC Extended Universe, Diana is not created from clay. Instead, she is the daughter of Hippolyta and Zeus, making her a demigod.
Notable Nemeses
Wonder Woman goes head-to-head with several enemies in the comics. Among the most notorious is Circe, a powerful witch and sorceress who's based on her namesake in Greek mythology. Notably, she sets up the War of the Gods, an epic war between numerous pantheons. Another one of Wonder Woman's well-known adversaries is Cheetah. Several people have donned this title, but the most prominent is possibly Barbara Ann Minerva, an archaeologist who gains an interest in besting Wonder Woman in battle after a failed attempt to take the hero's Lasso of Truth. Wonder Woman has also fought Ares (yes, the God of War), a misogynistic occultist called Doctor Psycho, and the size-manipulating Giganta.
Love Interests
Though Wonder Woman has quite a few love interests over the years, her most notable one is Steve Trevor. He originally debuts as the first man she ever meets, after his plane crashes on her island during World War II. She nurses him back to health, falls in love with him, and easily wins a competition to escort him back to Man's World (aka Earth) and assist in the country's battles. Other iterations of Steve remove his romantic relationship with Wonder Woman, but fans are still very familiar with it. In fact, Chris Pine is playing him in the film. Other than that, Wonder Woman also has trysts with characters including Nemesis, Aquaman, and Superman.
Team Affiliations
Wonder Woman starts off as a member of the Justice Society of America - though she mostly appears as the team's secretary and doesn't get in on the action much until later on. She's more famously a part of the Justice League of America, a superhero team consisting of several heroes like Batman, Superman, Aquaman, and the Flash. The JLA has undergone tons of changes to its origin story, but Wonder Woman is almost always a founding member.
Always Tired? The 1 Thing That Could Be to Blame
You get plenty of sleep and you're not catching a cold, yet lately you feel run-down, have crazy headaches, and can't focus at work. It may have something to do with how much iron you're getting in your diet.
An adult woman should aim for 18 milligrams of iron a day, and if you're not reaching this goal, you may have anemia, an iron deficiency. Our bodies need iron to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen. If your cells aren't getting oxygen, that explains the tired, foggy head. You may also notice pale skin, brittle nails, and cold hands.
You may be at risk for low levels of iron if you tend to have heavy periods, are pregnant, or just had a baby. Other at-risk individuals include endurance athletes, vegans, and individuals who donate blood frequently or have a condition that makes it hard to absorb nutrients from food. You can take iron supplements, but they may cause an upset stomach, heartburn, or constipation, so it's best to get your iron from food. Check out the list below to see which foods contain the most iron so you can be sure to get your fill.
| Food | Amount | Iron (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Apricot, dried | 1/2 cup halves | 1.2 |
| Artichoke | 1 medium | 0.7 |
| Asparagus, cooked | 1/2 cup | 0.8 |
| Barley, cooked | 1 cup | 2.1 |
| Beans (garbanzo) | 1/2 cup | 1.6 |
| Beans (kidney) | 1/2 cup | 2 |
| Beans (lima) | 1/2 cup | 2.3 |
| Beans (pinto) | 1/2 cup | 1.8 |
| Broccoli, cooked | 1/2 cup | 0.5 |
| Brown rice, cooked | 1 cup | 0.8 |
| Cashews | 1/4 cup | 2 |
| Cashew butter | 2 tbsp. | 1.6 |
| Egg | 1 large | 0.7 |
| Flaxseed, ground | 1 tbsp. | 0.4 |
| Fortified cereal such as Wheat Chex | 3/4 cup | 13.5 |
| Ground beef | 1 patty | 1.9 |
| Kale, raw | 1cup | 1.1 |
| Lentils | 1/2 cup | 3.3 |
| Molasses | 1 tbsp | 0.9 |
| Oats | 1 cup | 3.4 |
| Oysters, cooked | 3 oz | 10.2 |
| Peanuts | 1/4 cup | 0.6 |
| Peanut butter | 2 tbsp. | 0.6 |
| Pine nuts | 1/4 cup | 1.9 |
| Potatoes, with the skin | 1 small | 1.5 |
| Pumpkin seeds | 1/4 cup | 5.2 |
| Quinoa, cooked | 1 cup | 2.8 |
| Raisins | 1/4 cup | 0.8 |
| Salmon | 3 oz. | 0.9 |
| Shrimp, cooked | 3 oz. | 2.6 |
| Soybeans (edamame) | 1/2 cup | 1.8 |
| Spinach, raw | 1 cup | 0.8 |
| Steak | 3 oz. | 3.2 |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1/4 cup | 1.2 |
| Sunflower seeds | 1/4 cup | 1.8 |
| Sunflower seed butter | 2 tbsp. | 1.6 |
| Tofu, extra firm | 1/2 block | 4.3 |
| Turkey (dark meat) | 3 oz. | 2.1 |
Angelina Jolie's Travel Outfit Looks Basic, but It's Brilliant
When Angelina Jolie headed to LAX to catch a flight, she was wearing a simple black dress and a pair of kitten heels. But zoom in a little closer, and you'll see her design has a wrap effect. Though Angelina's rocking her number with a tee underneath, she can style it later all by itself. Plus, there's no denying her aviators and leather tote will come in handy wherever she's going.
Angelina isn't the only power woman who keeps these essentials on hand. Michelle Obama worked her own wrap dress and pumps on the plane, proving a look like this one's quite versatile. The key? Layer repeat-worthy pieces while you're traveling and keep your suitcase light. Read on to get inspired by Angelina's outfit, complete with classic diamond jewels, then shop for a similar midi before your next getaway.
Make Your Own: Leather Cleaner
Along with cleaning and organizing your home, keeping your leather furniture in great shape is a must once the weather starts getting warmer. Fresh Spring air and hot Summer sun can cause cracks and dryness in your favorite leather furnishings, which doesn't make for a happy house. Instead of spending money on expensive cleaners and cleansers, make your own with ingredients you have in your kitchen. Free of any chemicals, this eco-friendly cleaner does an awesome job at refreshing all your leather furnishings. And did we mention that it costs basically nothing to make?
What You'll Need:
- Paper towels
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 10 drops lemon or orange essential oil (optional)
- Small bowl
Directions:
- Start by vacuuming your leather furniture, removing any bits of food and dust lurking about. Then gently wipe the leather item with a damp paper towel.
- Mix together the vinegar and olive oil in a small container, whisking to incorporate. The oil and vinegar won't completely come together because the liquids have different densities. The vinegar gently cleans the leather, and the olive oil breaks up dirt and stains while conditioning the furniture. Adding essential oil gives the cleaner a nice scent, which leaves your furnishings smelling fresh.
- Dip a clean paper towel into the homemade cleaner and then gently rub on a small test area of the leather item. Let dry for 20 minutes and check for discoloration before coating furniture. Working in a circular motion, coat the entire piece, rubbing the cleaner into the leather. Use a clean and dry paper towel to gently wipe down the furniture, removing any remaining oil. Now sit back and enjoy your freshly cleaned leather!
For more cleaning products that won't break the bank, check out our list of DIYs!
Always Tired? The 1 Thing That Could Be to Blame
You get plenty of sleep and you're not catching a cold, yet lately you feel run-down, have crazy headaches, and can't focus at work. It may have something to do with how much iron you're getting in your diet.
An adult woman should aim for 18 milligrams of iron a day, and if you're not reaching this goal, you may have anemia, an iron deficiency. Our bodies need iron to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen. If your cells aren't getting oxygen, that explains the tired, foggy head. You may also notice pale skin, brittle nails, and cold hands.
You may be at risk for low levels of iron if you tend to have heavy periods, are pregnant, or just had a baby. Other at-risk individuals include endurance athletes, vegans, and individuals who donate blood frequently or have a condition that makes it hard to absorb nutrients from food. You can take iron supplements, but they may cause an upset stomach, heartburn, or constipation, so it's best to get your iron from food. Check out the list below to see which foods contain the most iron so you can be sure to get your fill.
| Food | Amount | Iron (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Apricot, dried | 1/2 cup halves | 1.2 |
| Artichoke | 1 medium | 0.7 |
| Asparagus, cooked | 1/2 cup | 0.8 |
| Barley, cooked | 1 cup | 2.1 |
| Beans (garbanzo) | 1/2 cup | 1.6 |
| Beans (kidney) | 1/2 cup | 2 |
| Beans (lima) | 1/2 cup | 2.3 |
| Beans (pinto) | 1/2 cup | 1.8 |
| Broccoli, cooked | 1/2 cup | 0.5 |
| Brown rice, cooked | 1 cup | 0.8 |
| Cashews | 1/4 cup | 2 |
| Cashew butter | 2 tbsp. | 1.6 |
| Egg | 1 large | 0.7 |
| Flaxseed, ground | 1 tbsp. | 0.4 |
| Fortified cereal such as Wheat Chex | 3/4 cup | 13.5 |
| Ground beef | 1 patty | 1.9 |
| Kale, raw | 1cup | 1.1 |
| Lentils | 1/2 cup | 3.3 |
| Molasses | 1 tbsp | 0.9 |
| Oats | 1 cup | 3.4 |
| Oysters, cooked | 3 oz | 10.2 |
| Peanuts | 1/4 cup | 0.6 |
| Peanut butter | 2 tbsp. | 0.6 |
| Pine nuts | 1/4 cup | 1.9 |
| Potatoes, with the skin | 1 small | 1.5 |
| Pumpkin seeds | 1/4 cup | 5.2 |
| Quinoa, cooked | 1 cup | 2.8 |
| Raisins | 1/4 cup | 0.8 |
| Salmon | 3 oz. | 0.9 |
| Shrimp, cooked | 3 oz. | 2.6 |
| Soybeans (edamame) | 1/2 cup | 1.8 |
| Spinach, raw | 1 cup | 0.8 |
| Steak | 3 oz. | 3.2 |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 1/4 cup | 1.2 |
| Sunflower seeds | 1/4 cup | 1.8 |
| Sunflower seed butter | 2 tbsp. | 1.6 |
| Tofu, extra firm | 1/2 block | 4.3 |
| Turkey (dark meat) | 3 oz. | 2.1 |
On a Budget? Never Splurge on This Home Item
Custom shades can be shockingly pricey, but you shouldn't blow your decorating budget on expensive window treatments, especially if you're renting. If you prefer the polished look of curtains, these affordable curtain hacks will save you hundreds. If you like the tailored look of blinds, you can still find great deals, even if it requires a little more digging to find the right size. Designer and Little Green Notebook blogger Jenny Komenda relies on Lowe's for finding crazy-chic options at prices you wouldn't believe. She's had luck scoring affordable white cotton roman shades and tortoiseshell bamboo blinds that look like they cost a small fortune. Love Grows Wild blogger Liz Fourez can't get enough of these bamboo roman shades from Home Depot. If you're choosing bamboo shades, you can also try layering them underneath curtains to add texture, warmth, and even more light and privacy control.
Radical Benefits: 11 Awesome Ways Companies Are Showing Employee Appreciation
Wouldn't it be nice if Employee Appreciation Day were every day? At some companies, the benefits are so sweet, they give employees the warm and fuzzies all year round. From $4,000 in "Baby Cash" for new parents to in-house meditation sessions to monthly book-buying stipends, lots of companies are getting creative with their tactics for keeping employees happy. Keep scrolling to find out what "Panda Fridays" are and why you'll want to have them at your company.
Hybrid Makeup Is Genius, and You Can Own It All Now
We all want things that serve double duty: shoes you can wear to work and out to dinner, bags that look luxurious while still being big enough to cram in a laptop, and makeup that not only blends but protects. A big trend on the rise in the beauty space is the explosion of hybrid makeup (that covers and has SPF). Whether you want a concealer to mask imperfections or a bronzer for that faux glow, we have eight products that are all packed with SPF.
5 Days in Iceland: What to Do and See For an Unforgettable Trip
Northern Virginia wedding photographer Kirstie Tuben and her husband, Ben, made a travel list on their honeymoon that featured the top 10 places they both wanted to visit. Since then, their goal has been to visit all the destinations before having kids, and Iceland happened to be one of them. "I really believe that travel is the only thing that makes you richer," said Kirstie. "It can enrich your life and open your eyes to the world around you." Before getting married, she was able to cover a good amount of ground on her own. She backpacked through Europe, lived on a boat in the Bahamas, taught in Vietnam and Tanzania, and saw 31 states.
For five days, the couple traveled to Iceland together over the Thanksgiving holiday. Since the Northern Lights aren't visible in the Summer, going during the Winter was a cold but great decision. Surprisingly, they shared that the weather was the same as New York City's, but the sun rose at 10 a.m. and set around 4:30 p.m. Kirstie and Ben gave us their adventure-packed itinerary for other travelers to follow. And seeing how trendy Iceland has become, you'll definitely want to add this to your list. But before you embark on your own trip, consider their tips and warnings ahead that could make or break your experience. See what to expect along with their gorgeous photography from their mini vacation!
Day 1According to the couple, their flight from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) was totally manageable and only required a small nap to fight the jet lag. As soon as they landed, they rented a car and drove to the small town of Vík. Their pro tip: buy insurance, because gravel will hit your windshield and strong sandstorms can damage your door. They packed a ton of snacks because they were told that the food in Iceland isn't the best. "Much to our surprise, it didn't suck - it was just expensive and mostly fish, burgers, or [hot] dogs," she said.
Although the drive to Vík took almost three hours, it was stunning. They were able to park and pet horses and sheep at any moment and stop at a waterfall called Seljalandsfoss. After taking a nap at their Airbnb, they explored the town and grabbed dinner at Sudur-Vík.
Day 2Their first stop on their way back toward Reykjavik was a black sand beach called Reynisfjara, where they climbed basalt towers. Don't get too close to the water, though. Dangerous "sneaker waves" can sneak up on you and take you under. Next, they drove to the famous plane crash, Sólheimasandur. Once you reach the area, you have to hike about two miles there and back with no bathrooms in sight. After some awesome photos, they went to Skógafoss Waterfall, where they recommend eating at the delicious fish and chips stand. After getting dropped off at their next Airbnb near City Center, Super Jeep tours picked them up at 8 p.m. to go see the Northern Lights. The great thing about this company, according to Kirstie, is that they'll refund your money if you don't see the lights. For the best photos, bring a tripod and flashlight. Day 3They took this day to explore Reykjavik and eat pub food. You'll want to see the Solfar Sculpture (Sun Voyager), go to the top of a massive church called Hallgrímskirkja, and visit the Harpa conference center. In addition, the street art, city hall, and small shops were also noteworthy. Travelers can take boats for whale watching or puffin seeing in the Summer. One of the highlights for Kirstie was dinner at Lebowski Bar, since The Big Lebowski is one of her favorite movies. Another reason to visit Iceland during the Winter is all the Christmas decorations. Don't leave Reykjavik without eating at the famous hotdog stand Baejarins. Day 4Most of their day was spent driving to Sólheimajokull where they went glacier hiking with Arctic Adventures. Although the intermediate course was manageable, it was cold. You'll definitely want to wear waterproof clothing and rent boots through the company. Day 5Ben and Kirstie were told to go to the Blue Lagoon either on the way to or from the airport, which they didn't regret doing. The process was easy through Reykjavik Excursions, using their bus and ticketing system, and they were even dropped off at their flight. "The Blue Lagoon is a lot like a spa but like nowhere I have ever been," Kirstie said. Visitors can rent towels and bathrobes, and you can also buy beer at the swim-up bar. "Definitely try the facial mask and don't get your hair wet - the water strips it completely."See their incredible photos!
Hybrid Makeup Is Genius, and You Can Own It All Now
We all want things that serve double duty: shoes you can wear to work and out to dinner, bags that look luxurious while still being big enough to cram in a laptop, and makeup that not only blends but protects. A big trend on the rise in the beauty space is the explosion of hybrid makeup (that covers and has SPF). Whether you want a concealer to mask imperfections or a bronzer for that faux glow, we have eight products that are all packed with SPF.
Meet the Princess Who Dresses Better Than Kate Middleton
If you thought Kate Middleton had quite the fashion-forward wardrobe, perhaps you haven't been following the outfit choices of another royal: Princess Mary of Denmark. The polished dresser beat out the Duchess of Cambridge as most stylish royal - again! - in a recent poll conducted by Hello! magazine. Out of 30,000 readers, a whopping 30 percent were team Mary, a number that immediately sparked our interest.
So we went back into the archives and found plenty of Mary's chicest looks, which, truth be told, may be a bit more daring than those seen on Kate. Read on to see them all as we hold out hope for Kate this year.
Pink's Daughter Delivered a Harsh Burn About One of Her Most Iconic Songs
Pink is an insanely successful singer and an incredibly talented performer (seriously, have you seen her trapeze routines?!), but there is one place where her star power holds zero weight: at home. Pink (real name Alecia Moore) has been married to Carey Hart since 2006, and the pair share two kids, daughter Willow and son Jameson. But while we're all used to blasting Pink's songs in the car and dancing to them during nights out, it turns out that Willow is her harshest critic. "The other day, I picked up her friend, who started singing 'Raise Your Glass,'" she recently told Us Weekly. "My daughter rolled her eyes and said, 'That's not even one of the good ones!'"
Pink also opened up to the magazine about how much her life has changed since becoming a mom of two. "I honestly can't believe how responsible I am," she continued. "All of a sudden I'm a soccer mom and doing the damn thing. No one would have guessed this for me. Honestly, I didn't realize that you could enjoy it so much." One of her favorite perks? Embarrassing her kids. She revealed that during one of Willow's recent T-ball games, "I was screaming my head off. I made my baby cry!"
These Are the 8 Hottest Mascara Launches of 2017 So Far
Just when we thought we'd seen everything, some of our favorite beauty brands managed to do it again with a round of innovative formulas and high-tech brushes designed to deliver the maximum amount of mascara to your lashes and keep it there - without any clumping or flaking along the way.
From a cocktail shaker-inspired concoction that refreshes itself to a dual-chamber tube that serves the upper and lower lashes at once, read on for some of the Spring and Summer launches that are breaking all the rules in order to help you achieve your biggest, baddest peepers yet.
Meet the Princess Who Dresses Better Than Kate Middleton
If you thought Kate Middleton had quite the fashion-forward wardrobe, perhaps you haven't been following the outfit choices of another royal: Princess Mary of Denmark. The polished dresser beat out the Duchess of Cambridge as most stylish royal - again! - in a recent poll conducted by Hello! magazine. Out of 30,000 readers, a whopping 30 percent were team Mary, a number that immediately sparked our interest.
So we went back into the archives and found plenty of Mary's chicest looks, which, truth be told, may be a bit more daring than those seen on Kate. Read on to see them all as we hold out hope for Kate this year.
The 1 Royal Marriage Rule That's Changed Since Princess Diana Married Prince Charles
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship is giving many people serious hopes for another royal wedding, but before the Suits actress even makes the trek down the aisle, she has to receive the royal seal of approval from the queen herself. Luckily for her, she has one less rule to follow: the virginity rule. The UK royal bride's virginity rule suggested that women had to be virgins before marrying a royal, which was the case when Princess Diana married Prince Charles in 1981. Before Diana could marry Charles, Diana's family had to confirm she was indeed a virgin. In fact, according to Tina Brown's biography The Diana Chronicles, Queen Elizabeth II specifically chose Diana for her son because she was "irresistibly innocent" and had no ex-boyfriends to sell their steamy stories to the tabloids. Oh, how the times have changed.
While there is no fixed rule that states a royal bride has to be a virgin, there is a code of behavior that has since evolved. Today, royals are encouraged to live their own lives without carrying such a heavy weight of society's expectations, and like many modern couples, Prince William and Kate Middleton even lived together before they got married.
23 Perfect Travel Outfits From Girls Who Are Always on the Go
How do you select an ensemble that'll be comfortable enough to travel in, but chic enough to keep you from feeling sluggish? You surely wouldn't enjoy sitting tight in a dress, and your track pants and oversize sweatshirt might as well be pajamas.
Lucky for you - and for me - the fashion bloggers below have struck the perfect balance between cozy and cool. Their effortless travel looks are more than inspiration for an off-duty day - they're a surefire way to pull off your next trip in style.
- Additional reporting by Marina Liao
12 Baby Products You Will Never Actually Need
It's no secret that babies come with a lot of stuff. Some of it's necessary (hello, diapers), some of it's handy (we're looking at you, eight-pack of pacifiers, and don't think we forgot about you, infant swing), but a lot of it is a downright waste of money. Whether manufacturers slapped the word "baby" in front of a product you probably already own or they made up a whole new device you never realized you didn't need, we've rounded up 12 items you - and your baby - can certainly do without.
23 Perfect Travel Outfits From Girls Who Are Always on the Go
How do you select an ensemble that'll be comfortable enough to travel in, but chic enough to keep you from feeling sluggish? You surely wouldn't enjoy sitting tight in a dress, and your track pants and oversize sweatshirt might as well be pajamas.
Lucky for you - and for me - the fashion bloggers below have struck the perfect balance between cozy and cool. Their effortless travel looks are more than inspiration for an off-duty day - they're a surefire way to pull off your next trip in style.
- Additional reporting by Marina Liao
12 Baby Products You Will Never Actually Need
It's no secret that babies come with a lot of stuff. Some of it's necessary (hello, diapers), some of it's handy (we're looking at you, eight-pack of pacifiers, and don't think we forgot about you, infant swing), but a lot of it is a downright waste of money. Whether manufacturers slapped the word "baby" in front of a product you probably already own or they made up a whole new device you never realized you didn't need, we've rounded up 12 items you - and your baby - can certainly do without.
This Is What It's Like to Live With Birth Marks Covering Your Face and Body
"Ugh, what happened to you?" "You're not pretty like the other girls." "No one likes you. You look like you're covered in dirt." "No one is ever going to like you."
These remarks were the norm for me when I was growing up. Every comment hurt a little bit more than the last. I subconsciously hoarded them until they started to become the very things I was telling myself. I have a rare epidermal nevus condition called Phacomatosis pigmentokeratotica, which affects about 1 in 2,000 people. A nevus is the scientific term for birthmark or mole. My case is caused by a genetic mutation, although the specific gene remains unknown. It isn't something you'd see everyday, which was why I garnered this kind of attention.
I might've only been 7 or 8 years old, but I could still understand the magnitude of disgust behind every mean comment. I was constantly bullied in school by my peers. They would make fun of me for looking different. During sixth grade lunch hour, a boy threw food at me and crumpled notes with mean things written on them such as, "You're ugly." The harassment didn't stop with my classmates.
Parents of these kids would tell my mom and dad that I should have surgery to remove them, because I wasn't attractive. Adults walking past me would sneer at the sight of me and take pictures to laugh at. My sixth grade Spanish teacher even publically bullied me in front of class and said, "Why don't you go and connect the dots on your face?" You could imagine the amount of emotional trauma this caused to my self-esteem. I received positive comments here and there, but it was always the negative ones that held more weight to me.
My mom would take many measures to cover me up as best as she could to protect me from the world. I was always outfitted in turtlenecks and long pants. When it got hot, my mom would slather on foundation that was five times too light and too sheer for my skin. I was always running around so the makeup melted off anyway. It was not ideal.
I was taught was to hide and to cover my skin so people wouldn't say anything. But no matter how hard I tried, every negative comment and experience felt like the weight of the world. I hated what I looked like and soon I embodied everything that hurt. I believed that I wasn't beautiful and that I never could be. I briefly contemplated suicide around the end of middle school. If I just stopped everything, I wouldn't have to hurt anymore. I could stop my parents from tirelessly trying to find the best medical care for me, since at the time, most dermatologists didn't know what to do with my case. "Maybe I could stop my parents from having to take the emotional abuse. It would be so easy to end my emotional suffering," I thought to myself. [Editor's note: if you or a loved one feels suicidal, find help here.]
I am now 24 years old, and all I can say is that I am grateful I chose otherwise. It was a painfully slow but steady journey to attain self-acceptance. To this day, I feel like I still have a lot to work on. There are days when I'll cry, but I'm only human, and I need to allow myself to feel emotion. Regardless of those bad days, I know that I will always pick myself up and continue on with my life.
Today, I can't help but tell you how much I love my life and how much I am appreciative for my birthmarks. Not only have they given me confidence in my appearance, but they have also given me the strength and drive to pursue my dreams. I grew up with a lot of negativity, but slowly, I learned to stand up against it. I kept telling myself that they were wrong and that what they said meant nothing to me. I began to apply the mindset of "never taking no for an answer" to all aspects of my life.
Being bullied when I was young made me sensitive. I used to hate that I didn't have tough skin but now, I feel fortunate that I don't. My sensitivity allows me to be compassionate towards people who are hurting and it allows me to pick up on subtle hints that they are in pain. My birthmarks also taught me to be positive for myself and for other people around me. There is enough hate in this world and enough people telling us that we can't do something.
I didn't want to add to that, and instead, I chose to have a positive outlook on my life and to lift up the people around me. When I see the people around me reach success, it's a chain reaction for more great things to come. So I can't help but continue to be positive. I can't express the amount of emotional suffering I went through to get to the confidence level I am at now. I came up with things to remind myself when things were especially difficult, and I hope these tips empower you to believe in your worth and your beauty. You have so much to offer in this world! Without further ado:
1. You have to love you.
This was the most difficult, but most important idea to grasp in my journey to accepting myself. My family and friends were always encouraging about my appearance and say that it's what they love about me. It is what makes me different. What I came to realize was that although the support was strong, I could not accept it until I came to accept myself. Strength at its paramount comes from within. People can be strong for you, but it is meaningless until you truly believe you are beautiful. Once you are confident that you are strong, no one can take that away from you.
What is even more important is that once you love yourself, the negative comments you receive become so irrelevant to you that you barely even notice they exist. You can create your reality. If you bottle up those negative comments and make them a part of you, then they will overcome you. But, if you believe that you are strong and beautiful, then that will in and of itself become your reality.
Something I do to feel strong inside and out is that I go to the gym! I love lifting weights and circuit training. I make sure to work out each muscle group throughout the week. I also rarely eat out, because I love to cook healthy. The combinations of both working out and eating clean make me feel great both physically and mentally.
2. When times get tough, get tougher.
There were many situations in which I found myself behind closed doors by myself, crying because I didn't know what I did to garner such negative attention. I would just sit there and feel so bad for myself. It came to a point when I would be sitting in an ocean of used tissues, dizzy from hyperventilating and unable to squeeze any more tears out of my eyes. I realized that life goes on. It's not going to sit and wait for you to feel bad for yourself. There are things out there to be done. Goals to be reached. Empowerment to be gained. Success to be earned. I bit my bottom lip and redirected my energy into the things I felt made my life worth living.
I channeled this energy into becoming a doctor. I had been exposed to dermatology my entire life and have been fortunate to meet some incredible and inspirational physicians who changed me forever. I also have had over 60 major and minor surgeries, so I have also been exposed to the field of plastic surgery. It's something I want to dedicate my life to because I want to help people through what I am currently going through. Because of my birthmarks and the arduous journey with having them, I feel I am able to relate to my patients and lead them to a physically and mentally healthy life.
So, my lesson for you is that you need to take life by the balls and own it. Find something worth being tough about and run with it. The world is yours. You have to choose to take it.
3. Stop trying to hide it - own it!
My mom insisted that I use makeup to cover my skin when I was younger, but now, all I want to do is show the world that I am proud to be me. I tried to use foundation once, but I looked so silly. The coverage was too sheer and the amount I had to use was ridiculous. I honestly didn't feel authentic. If people look, I say let them look! Let them admire your beauty. In a world where people are dying to stand out, we are lucky to already have that trait.
Though I decided to forgo cosmetics for coverage, I still have products to protect my skin from damaging UV rays. My beauty secret is to use a broad-spectrum SPF moisturizer and body lotion. It'll also prevent premature aging, an added bonus. My favorites include: Jergens Natural Glow SPF 20 ($11) for the face and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock ($7 each), SPF 45 and SPF 100 for my body. I encourage everyone, even to those who do not have birthmarks, to use SPF. I love Jergens Natural Glow for its smell and its self-tanning product. Since I can't go out and tan, this my way of getting some color. Neutrogena's Dry Touch line is amazing because it doesn't feel heavy. I've gone through too many greasy sunblocks and am glad to say that this product line definitely does not disappoint.
4. Be compassionate.
The comments that people make must never define you. Sometimes, people will say mean things that will hurt you to the very core. It's an uncomfortable situation, especially if the topic of your appearance is an extremely sensitive subject. It's important to keep in mind that people are curious. Sometimes they are ignorant. If they are mean to you, it is because they still have more to learn about life. They just don't understand how to process your beauty. Continue to be kind, for they are simply naive.
As I get older, less mean things are said to me, but I still get asked about them. I realize that the questions come from curiosity. It's harder to understand this when it's a sensitive topic, but it's important to be compassionate and to not be defensive to those who question. I get asked all the time if I wanted to get them removed and my answer was, is, and will continue to be: no. My birthmarks made me the person I am today. They gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams in more ways than one. They have given me the confidence and grit to continue my goals of being a doctor. They made me compassionate and optimistic.
I want people out there who are going through what I went through to understand that it's OK to be a little insecure sometimes. I want you to know that you are beautiful and that you are loved, even if you can't see it. You don't have to prove your worth to anyone but yourself. You are already great. You have the potential to be even greater and you have it within you to never stop until you reach success. Believe that your differences make you unique. Be confident that they can change your life once you accept them and love them for what they are and who you can be.
Jenna Lee is currently workong on completing a Masters Degree in biomedical sciences; follow her on Instagram here!
Run 5 Miles in 50 Minutes With This Playlist
If a 10-minute mile is your speed, here's a playlist custom-made for your workout routine. Each tune is 150 BPM, the perfect tempo to keep your pace. Whether you love Florence + the Machine or DJ Khaled, there's a little something for everyone on this mix. Subscribe to the Spotify playlist, then keep reading for the full list of songs.
- "Dog Days Are Over" - Florence + the Machine
- "Shake It" - Metro Station
- "Mr. Brightside" - The Killers
- "Animal" - Neon Trees
- "All I Do Is Win" - DJ Khaled
- "Clark Gable" - The Postal Service
- "In For the Kill" - La Roux
- "Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh" - Say Hi
- "OK, It's Alright With Me" - Eric Hutchinson
- "My Delirium" - Ladyhawke
- "Dreams" - Passion Pit
- "Much Finer" - Le Tigre
- "Hong Kong Garden" - Siouxsie and the Banshees
- "Unstoppable" - Santigold
If this mix isn't your pace, check out all our workout playlists here to find something that works.
Remember, you will need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists.
Meet Cosmo the Spacedog From Disneyland's New Guardians of the Galaxy Ride!
While we all absolutely love Baby Groot, there's something else in the Guardians of the Galaxy universe that's stealing our hearts. Featured prominently in the line for Disneyland's new Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: Breakout! is Cosmo the Spacedog. He's located in the Collector's fortress just to the left of the main doors as you walk in.
You might recognize him from the original Guardians of the Galaxy movie as he makes his cameo escaping with the rest of the crew just before the Collector's fortress implodes. But this little pup has quite the interesting backstory.
Cosmo is a former Soviet dog who was launched into Earth's orbit in the 1960s, but he drifted off into space and eventually found himself at the space station Knowhere, where he mutated, was given telepathic powers, and eventually became the station's security chief.
How cute would this guy be as your head of security?
He then teams up with Nova, another superhero in the Marvel universe, and eventually becomes a liaison to the Guardians of the Galaxy, assisting them with plotting courses for the troubled spots in the universe.
I have a feeling that this isn't the last we've seen of the talking K9 - and when you get the chance to ride the ride, make sure to give him a little pet!
This Is What It's Like to Live With Birth Marks Covering Your Face and Body
"Ugh, what happened to you?" "You're not pretty like the other girls." "No one likes you. You look like you're covered in dirt." "No one is ever going to like you."
These remarks were the norm for me when I was growing up. Every comment hurt a little bit more than the last. I subconsciously hoarded them until they started to become the very things I was telling myself. I have a rare epidermal nevus condition called Phacomatosis pigmentokeratotica, which affects about 1 in 2,000 people. A nevus is the scientific term for birthmark or mole. My case is caused by a genetic mutation, although the specific gene remains unknown. It isn't something you'd see everyday, which was why I garnered this kind of attention.
I might've only been 7 or 8 years old, but I could still understand the magnitude of disgust behind every mean comment. I was constantly bullied in school by my peers. They would make fun of me for looking different. During sixth grade lunch hour, a boy threw food at me and crumpled notes with mean things written on them such as, "You're ugly." The harassment didn't stop with my classmates.
Parents of these kids would tell my mom and dad that I should have surgery to remove them, because I wasn't attractive. Adults walking past me would sneer at the sight of me and take pictures to laugh at. My sixth grade Spanish teacher even publically bullied me in front of class and said, "Why don't you go and connect the dots on your face?" You could imagine the amount of emotional trauma this caused to my self-esteem. I received positive comments here and there, but it was always the negative ones that held more weight to me.
My mom would take many measures to cover me up as best as she could to protect me from the world. I was always outfitted in turtlenecks and long pants. When it got hot, my mom would slather on foundation that was five times too light and too sheer for my skin. I was always running around so the makeup melted off anyway. It was not ideal.
I was taught was to hide and to cover my skin so people wouldn't say anything. But no matter how hard I tried, every negative comment and experience felt like the weight of the world. I hated what I looked like and soon I embodied everything that hurt. I believed that I wasn't beautiful and that I never could be. I briefly contemplated suicide around the end of middle school. If I just stopped everything, I wouldn't have to hurt anymore. I could stop my parents from tirelessly trying to find the best medical care for me, since at the time, most dermatologists didn't know what to do with my case. "Maybe I could stop my parents from having to take the emotional abuse. It would be so easy to end my emotional suffering," I thought to myself. [Editor's note: if you or a loved one feels suicidal, find help here.]
I am now 24 years old, and all I can say is that I am grateful I chose otherwise. It was a painfully slow but steady journey to attain self-acceptance. To this day, I feel like I still have a lot to work on. There are days when I'll cry, but I'm only human, and I need to allow myself to feel emotion. Regardless of those bad days, I know that I will always pick myself up and continue on with my life.
Today, I can't help but tell you how much I love my life and how much I am appreciative for my birthmarks. Not only have they given me confidence in my appearance, but they have also given me the strength and drive to pursue my dreams. I grew up with a lot of negativity, but slowly, I learned to stand up against it. I kept telling myself that they were wrong and that what they said meant nothing to me. I began to apply the mindset of "never taking no for an answer" to all aspects of my life.
Being bullied when I was young made me sensitive. I used to hate that I didn't have tough skin but now, I feel fortunate that I don't. My sensitivity allows me to be compassionate towards people who are hurting and it allows me to pick up on subtle hints that they are in pain. My birthmarks also taught me to be positive for myself and for other people around me. There is enough hate in this world and enough people telling us that we can't do something.
I didn't want to add to that, and instead, I chose to have a positive outlook on my life and to lift up the people around me. When I see the people around me reach success, it's a chain reaction for more great things to come. So I can't help but continue to be positive. I can't express the amount of emotional suffering I went through to get to the confidence level I am at now. I came up with things to remind myself when things were especially difficult, and I hope these tips empower you to believe in your worth and your beauty. You have so much to offer in this world! Without further ado:
1. You have to love you.
This was the most difficult, but most important idea to grasp in my journey to accepting myself. My family and friends were always encouraging about my appearance and say that it's what they love about me. It is what makes me different. What I came to realize was that although the support was strong, I could not accept it until I came to accept myself. Strength at its paramount comes from within. People can be strong for you, but it is meaningless until you truly believe you are beautiful. Once you are confident that you are strong, no one can take that away from you.
What is even more important is that once you love yourself, the negative comments you receive become so irrelevant to you that you barely even notice they exist. You can create your reality. If you bottle up those negative comments and make them a part of you, then they will overcome you. But, if you believe that you are strong and beautiful, then that will in and of itself become your reality.
Something I do to feel strong inside and out is that I go to the gym! I love lifting weights and circuit training. I make sure to work out each muscle group throughout the week. I also rarely eat out, because I love to cook healthy. The combinations of both working out and eating clean make me feel great both physically and mentally.
2. When times get tough, get tougher.
There were many situations in which I found myself behind closed doors by myself, crying because I didn't know what I did to garner such negative attention. I would just sit there and feel so bad for myself. It came to a point when I would be sitting in an ocean of used tissues, dizzy from hyperventilating and unable to squeeze any more tears out of my eyes. I realized that life goes on. It's not going to sit and wait for you to feel bad for yourself. There are things out there to be done. Goals to be reached. Empowerment to be gained. Success to be earned. I bit my bottom lip and redirected my energy into the things I felt made my life worth living.
I channeled this energy into becoming a doctor. I had been exposed to dermatology my entire life and have been fortunate to meet some incredible and inspirational physicians who changed me forever. I also have had over 60 major and minor surgeries, so I have also been exposed to the field of plastic surgery. It's something I want to dedicate my life to because I want to help people through what I am currently going through. Because of my birthmarks and the arduous journey with having them, I feel I am able to relate to my patients and lead them to a physically and mentally healthy life.
So, my lesson for you is that you need to take life by the balls and own it. Find something worth being tough about and run with it. The world is yours. You have to choose to take it.
3. Stop trying to hide it - own it!
My mom insisted that I use makeup to cover my skin when I was younger, but now, all I want to do is show the world that I am proud to be me. I tried to use foundation once, but I looked so silly. The coverage was too sheer and the amount I had to use was ridiculous. I honestly didn't feel authentic. If people look, I say let them look! Let them admire your beauty. In a world where people are dying to stand out, we are lucky to already have that trait.
Though I decided to forgo cosmetics for coverage, I still have products to protect my skin from damaging UV rays. My beauty secret is to use a broad-spectrum SPF moisturizer and body lotion. It'll also prevent premature aging, an added bonus. My favorites include: Jergens Natural Glow SPF 20 ($11) for the face and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock ($7 each), SPF 45 and SPF 100 for my body. I encourage everyone, even to those who do not have birthmarks, to use SPF. I love Jergens Natural Glow for its smell and its self-tanning product. Since I can't go out and tan, this my way of getting some color. Neutrogena's Dry Touch line is amazing because it doesn't feel heavy. I've gone through too many greasy sunblocks and am glad to say that this product line definitely does not disappoint.
4. Be compassionate.
The comments that people make must never define you. Sometimes, people will say mean things that will hurt you to the very core. It's an uncomfortable situation, especially if the topic of your appearance is an extremely sensitive subject. It's important to keep in mind that people are curious. Sometimes they are ignorant. If they are mean to you, it is because they still have more to learn about life. They just don't understand how to process your beauty. Continue to be kind, for they are simply naive.
As I get older, less mean things are said to me, but I still get asked about them. I realize that the questions come from curiosity. It's harder to understand this when it's a sensitive topic, but it's important to be compassionate and to not be defensive to those who question. I get asked all the time if I wanted to get them removed and my answer was, is, and will continue to be: no. My birthmarks made me the person I am today. They gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams in more ways than one. They have given me the confidence and grit to continue my goals of being a doctor. They made me compassionate and optimistic.
I want people out there who are going through what I went through to understand that it's OK to be a little insecure sometimes. I want you to know that you are beautiful and that you are loved, even if you can't see it. You don't have to prove your worth to anyone but yourself. You are already great. You have the potential to be even greater and you have it within you to never stop until you reach success. Believe that your differences make you unique. Be confident that they can change your life once you accept them and love them for what they are and who you can be.
Jenna Lee is currently workong on completing a Masters Degree in biomedical sciences; follow her on Instagram here!
Run 5 Miles in 50 Minutes With This Playlist
If a 10-minute mile is your speed, here's a playlist custom-made for your workout routine. Each tune is 150 BPM, the perfect tempo to keep your pace. Whether you love Florence + the Machine or DJ Khaled, there's a little something for everyone on this mix. Subscribe to the Spotify playlist, then keep reading for the full list of songs.
- "Dog Days Are Over" - Florence + the Machine
- "Shake It" - Metro Station
- "Mr. Brightside" - The Killers
- "Animal" - Neon Trees
- "All I Do Is Win" - DJ Khaled
- "Clark Gable" - The Postal Service
- "In For the Kill" - La Roux
- "Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh" - Say Hi
- "OK, It's Alright With Me" - Eric Hutchinson
- "My Delirium" - Ladyhawke
- "Dreams" - Passion Pit
- "Much Finer" - Le Tigre
- "Hong Kong Garden" - Siouxsie and the Banshees
- "Unstoppable" - Santigold
If this mix isn't your pace, check out all our workout playlists here to find something that works.
Remember, you will need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists.
16 Breathtaking Vacation Properties the British Royal Family Loves
The royal family is always criss-crossing the globe for official tours and state visits, but where they choose to spend their personal time is another matter. While the queen and Prince Philip vacation every Summer in their Scottish home Balmoral, their children and grandchildren prefer to spend their time in exotic and luxurious destinations around the world. From Africa to the US, India to the Alps, we take you on a whistle-stop tour of some of the royals' favorite holiday hangouts.
This Secret Indian Hair-Growth Formula May Finally Give You a Mermaid Mane
Anyone who has unsuccessfully tried to get their hair to grow may roll their eyes at this video in which Prachi (the vlogger behind Super Wow Style) shares a family recipe for lengthier locks. Could a simple mix of natural ingredients really make hair grow up to 30-40 percent as Prachi claims? We were a bit skeptical, too, and while we have not tried this remedy, a look at Prachi's long shiny mane and reading the reviewers' testimonials is making us reconsider. Perhaps this is the holistic answer to getting the mermaid mane of your dreams. In fact, Prachi challenges viewers to take before and after images when they test the treatment.
"People ask, 'How does you hair grow?' and I give them the same answer," she says in the video. "I learned it from my mom, and she learned is from her mother. It's an old Indian secret."
To DIY it, you'll need: coconut oil, castor oil, vitamin E, aloe vera leaves, and two bowls (one small and one large). Start by cutting up the aloe vera leaves, and then scratch it with a knife or fork to scrape out more gel. Rub the leaf on your scalp and massage the aloe gel into your roots. Use your fingers to make sure it's all over your head.
Then, in a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of castor oil with 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Pierce the vitamin E capsule with needle, extract the oil, and add it to the formula. Place the small bowl with the three oils in a larger one containing hot water. Warning: do not place the oil directly on a fire (including a stove) or in microwaves, since it can catch fire immediately.
After five minutes, the hot oil should be ready. Use your fingertips to apply it onto your scalp. Lay down on a sofa or the like and gently massage it into your scalp for two to three minutes. "This is very important to increase blood circulation for hair growth," she explains.
Once you're done, weave your hair in tight braid and sleep on it. Wash you hair in the morning. According to Prachi, you will start seeing a difference in your hair length "very, very soon."
While she does not specify how often to do the treatment, reviewers offer their successful trials.
"I tried this method exactly as she explained to and it WORKED!" one commenter said. "My hair grew about 4 to 5 inches in about 3 months! I did it 2 x per week for a month. Then 1 x per week for the next 2 months. It made my hair so healthy and strong. Everyone kept commenting on how fast my hair grew and how long it is. Before I started my hair was bra strap length. Now it is to my hips! I don't have photos to post, because I seriously hate taking photos of myself since I have gained weight (next thing to work on) but I will consider it."
Another commenter said, "I watched your video and used these products! And it works like MAGIC. I don't know how but my hair grew in a week. I used it two times a week though aloe vera was not available! But castor oil is super! Hats off!"
A third remarked, "It's amazing . . . I've seen results in just 2 wash[es] . . . My hair [ha]s became more silky and the best part it made my hair 2.5 cm longer."
So, what do you think? Is this a hoax or the most genius hair hack ever?
6 Ways You Can Advance Gender Equality in the Workplace Today
OK, first the good news: more and more companies are getting wise to the importance of gender equality in the workplace. Studies have shown that more women means better decision-making, more innovation, and even greater financial returns.
And the not-so-good news: even with new programs and policies that have been implemented, the World Economic Forum estimates that the gender wage gap could take 170 years to close. That's a long, long time.
So what's going to bring change faster? Fast enough for us to see in our lifetime? You guessed it . . . it's women doing more for ourselves and working together to make change. There are tons of things - large and small - that we can all do in our daily routine in the workplace to bring gender equality about faster. Such as:
1. Ask For a Raise
I've managed a lot of people in my day, and I'll tell you one thing: men love asking for raises. It's like a hobby for them. But women . . . not so much. So imagine the power of every woman asking emphatically for a raise - the way that men do. It would be like a mini women's march every day. Goodbye, gender wage gap.
2. Support Another Woman
Women are notoriously competitive with each other in the workplace. Cut that sh*t out. Go find a woman you don't know well, and ask her to coffee. Speak up about something awesome that another woman accomplished. Give some free career advice to another woman just because.
3. (Gently) Criticize Another Woman
When I was in my first job out of college, my (female) manager took the time to pull me aside and tell me that I wasn't dressing appropriately for the office. I almost died of embarrassment. And yet - I'm so glad she did. I would not be where I am today if she hadn't gone above and beyond to have the "hard conversation" with me. And at least she was nice enough to do it over drinks.
4. Join Your Women's Network and Make It Count
Set objectives for things that your women's employee resource group can work to address. Does your company publicly announce its gender split? Do you have enough women in leadership roles? Are there enough mentoring opportunities? Is there succession planning and career tracking for women? Appropriate career tracking? Identify some key areas you'd like to make change in, and raise them to management. Special bonus: you'll raise your own profile at the same time.
5. Make Yourself Visible and Make Sure That Everyone Knows Who You Are
Most women were raised not to brag. But you have to be your own publicist and make sure everyone at the company knows who you are and why you're awesome. So find ways to meet people who are not in your area. Build your reputation as the awesome woman who the company can't live without.
6. Share Your Experiences
Knowledge is power. That's why we invented Fairygodboss, an online community dedicated to improving the workplace for women by creating transparency. Case in point: we checked the top 100 of the Fortune 500 - and only six of those companies publicly posted their maternity leave policies on their websites. So we crowdsourced them . . .
Join the movement! Get online, leave a free anonymous review of your company, and help make sure your company knows what is working and what just doesn't fly. Either that, or you can just start wearing your pink pussyhat to work.
Fairygodboss is an online career community for women. Our mission is to improve the workplace for women by creating transparency. YOU can help us help women everywhere by anonymously sharing information about your work experience on Fairygodboss.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Scrambled Eggs
One of the most basic recipes everyone learns is scrambled eggs, but the truth is perfectly scrambled eggs are a lot trickier than they seem. Much like the classic omelet, scrambling eggs is one cooking method on which many chefs differ. To whisk in a bowl or in the pan? To add dairy or to not? Minor tweaks can make huge differences in something so basic, and we guarantee you'll want to change up your scrambled egg routine with tips from these experts - they know a thing or two about recipe developing. Here's how some of our favorite chefs scramble their eggs (we're not kidding when we say Gordon Ramsay's method is a game changer).
Alton Brown: Whisk With Whole Milk
Simple yet effective is the name of the game in Alton Brown's scrambled egg recipe. Adding whole milk isn't his only tip, though. "Odds are you're going to be serving these on a plate. If so, I strongly suggest you park an ovensafe one in a low oven or in hot water while you're cooking. Cold plates suck the heat right out of food," his recipe description reads.
Anthony Bourdain: Skip the Dairy
Anthony Bourdain doesn't condone adding milk or cream to scrambled eggs - or anything, for that matter. "I just don't feel that milk or cream adds anything. I believe that a scrambled egg is principally about the egg," the Appetites author says in a video about the best way to cook scrambled eggs. Anthony's other pro tip is to be careful not to overbeat the eggs; you want some white parts remaining. He cooks them in a heated pan with warm, foaming butter and carefully pushes them around in a figure-eight pattern to create soft folds.
Giada De Laurentiis: Frittata Cupcakes
Giada's preferred method of scrambling eggs involves a mini muffin tin - she likes to make frittata cupcakes. She told POPSUGAR in an interview, "I love making my little cupcakes - frittata cupcakes. I just stick whatever's left in the fridge. Whatever it is that was from the night before, whether it's leftover pasta, leftover meat, leftover vegetables . . . Another favorite is lox, scrambled eggs, and peas - for a little color. For a Sunday morning, it's one of my favorite go-to breakfasts."
Gordon Ramsay: Low and Slow (With a Secret Ingredient)
Gordon Ramsay's scrambled eggs recipe is one everyone must try at least once. The finished product looks more like custard, and thanks to his cooking method and a secret ingredient, they're melt-in-your-mouth good.
Paula Deen: With Water and Vidalia Onions
"We can't operate without Vidalia onions around here," Paula Deen said of her scrambled eggs in an interview with POPSUGAR. In addition to caramelized onions, Paula adds a splash of water to her eggs. "Water doesn't make it as tough as milk," she says. The real kicker, though, is to scramble the eggs in both butter and bacon fat to get the most flavor.
Chrissy Teigen: "Cheesy" Eggs, Hold the Cheese
Chrissy Teigen swears by her method of creating "cheesy" eggs without the cheese, thanks to her secret ingredient: heavy cream. Her tip for getting them as creamy as possible with no browned spots? "Don't stop gently stirring and scraping (edges and all) for more than a few seconds!"
The Pioneer Woman: Smoked Salmon and Chives
Like most Pioneer Woman recipes, this one sounds delightful. Calling them the "best scrambled eggs ever", Ree Drummond suggests sprinkling in chopped smoked salmon after the eggs are cooked and then garnishing with chopped fresh chives.
Mario Batali: Topped With Shaved Truffle
Leave it to Mario Batali to bring some serious culinary chops to such a basic recipe. To make scrambled eggs special, Mario suggests adding mascarpone or parmesan cheese, but to make them "spectacular," garnish with shaved truffle.
Katie Lee: Back to Basics
Food Network host Katie Lee has a strictly back-to-basics approach to scrambled eggs. She melts butter in a skillet and cooks the eggs low and slow. "It is important to keep the heat low when cooking eggs so as not to burn them," Katie told POPSUGAR in an interview.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Make Scrambled Eggs
One of the most basic recipes everyone learns is scrambled eggs, but the truth is perfectly scrambled eggs are a lot trickier than they seem. Much like the classic omelet, scrambling eggs is one cooking method on which many chefs differ. To whisk in a bowl or in the pan? To add dairy or to not? Minor tweaks can make huge differences in something so basic, and we guarantee you'll want to change up your scrambled egg routine with tips from these experts - they know a thing or two about recipe developing. Here's how some of our favorite chefs scramble their eggs (we're not kidding when we say Gordon Ramsay's method is a game changer).
Alton Brown: Whisk With Whole Milk
Simple yet effective is the name of the game in Alton Brown's scrambled egg recipe. Adding whole milk isn't his only tip, though. "Odds are you're going to be serving these on a plate. If so, I strongly suggest you park an ovensafe one in a low oven or in hot water while you're cooking. Cold plates suck the heat right out of food," his recipe description reads.
Anthony Bourdain: Skip the Dairy
Anthony Bourdain doesn't condone adding milk or cream to scrambled eggs - or anything, for that matter. "I just don't feel that milk or cream adds anything. I believe that a scrambled egg is principally about the egg," the Appetites author says in a video about the best way to cook scrambled eggs. Anthony's other pro tip is to be careful not to overbeat the eggs; you want some white parts remaining. He cooks them in a heated pan with warm, foaming butter and carefully pushes them around in a figure-eight pattern to create soft folds.
Giada De Laurentiis: Frittata Cupcakes
Giada's preferred method of scrambling eggs involves a mini muffin tin - she likes to make frittata cupcakes. She told POPSUGAR in an interview, "I love making my little cupcakes - frittata cupcakes. I just stick whatever's left in the fridge. Whatever it is that was from the night before, whether it's leftover pasta, leftover meat, leftover vegetables . . . Another favorite is lox, scrambled eggs, and peas - for a little color. For a Sunday morning, it's one of my favorite go-to breakfasts."
Gordon Ramsay: Low and Slow (With a Secret Ingredient)
Gordon Ramsay's scrambled eggs recipe is one everyone must try at least once. The finished product looks more like custard, and thanks to his cooking method and a secret ingredient, they're melt-in-your-mouth good.
Paula Deen: With Water and Vidalia Onions
"We can't operate without Vidalia onions around here," Paula Deen said of her scrambled eggs in an interview with POPSUGAR. In addition to caramelized onions, Paula adds a splash of water to her eggs. "Water doesn't make it as tough as milk," she says. The real kicker, though, is to scramble the eggs in both butter and bacon fat to get the most flavor.
Chrissy Teigen: "Cheesy" Eggs, Hold the Cheese
Chrissy Teigen swears by her method of creating "cheesy" eggs without the cheese, thanks to her secret ingredient: heavy cream. Her tip for getting them as creamy as possible with no browned spots? "Don't stop gently stirring and scraping (edges and all) for more than a few seconds!"
The Pioneer Woman: Smoked Salmon and Chives
Like most Pioneer Woman recipes, this one sounds delightful. Calling them the "best scrambled eggs ever", Ree Drummond suggests sprinkling in chopped smoked salmon after the eggs are cooked and then garnishing with chopped fresh chives.
Mario Batali: Topped With Shaved Truffle
Leave it to Mario Batali to bring some serious culinary chops to such a basic recipe. To make scrambled eggs special, Mario suggests adding mascarpone or parmesan cheese, but to make them "spectacular," garnish with shaved truffle.
Katie Lee: Back to Basics
Food Network host Katie Lee has a strictly back-to-basics approach to scrambled eggs. She melts butter in a skillet and cooks the eggs low and slow. "It is important to keep the heat low when cooking eggs so as not to burn them," Katie told POPSUGAR in an interview.
A Stranger's Heartwarming Gesture Helped a Soldier Reunite With His Family on Memorial Day
Posted by Jennifer Streicher-Tilson on Thursday, December 8, 2016
Thanks to one stranger's random and quick act of kindness, an Army soldier was able to go home and see his family for Memorial Day. Josh Rainey bought a flight for Keaton Tilson, a US Army mechanic, and his family is extremely grateful for the heartwarming gesture.
Tilson, a 19-year-old soldier based in Fort Hood, Texas, received approval to go home for Memorial Day Weekend on May 25. However, he was trying to fly standby and couldn't get on a flight. That was until Josh Rainey saw the ordeal he was going through and tried to give Tilson his ticket from Dallas-Fort Worth International to St. Louis, Missouri. When that move didn't work either, Rainey simply bought him a ticket, reports KTVI. Tilson was moved by the gesture and couldn't believe it. "I'm very appreciative because if it wasn't for him, I probably wouldn't be here right now," said Tilson to Good Morning America.
Rainey and Tilson were both emotional after the ticket exchange. "He walked away and came back and asked if he could hug me, and I think we both had to fight back the tears after that," said Rainey to KTVI. "It was pennies, pennies on the dollar compared to what I got back from that hug. But that hug was the biggest payment I received."
Jennifer Streicher-Tilson, the mother of Keaton, was also moved by the gesture. "Words can't even describe how grateful and surprised we were!" she said to POPSUGAR. She hopes Rainey's act serves as a positive message and reminder that we can always help someone out. "I know myself and other friends and family will be paying it forward. When we see someone in need, we will help as much as we are able to!" she said. Streicher-Tilson wrote a similar sentiment and shared it on her Facebook page on May 26.
Sometimes, especially in the world we live in today, I am amazed by the kindness of strangers! Keaton just got his...
Posted by Jennifer Streicher-Tilson on Friday, May 26, 2017
This story serves as yet another reminder that no gesture is too small or big to help someone out.
Pippa Middleton Wore the Shoe of the Summer on Her Honeymoon
It's only been a couple of weeks since Pippa Middleton married James Matthews in a gorgeous Giles Deacon wedding dress and now everyone has already turned their attention to her honeymoon outfits.
Pippa was spotted in Sydney in a Kate Spade black-and-white striped dress and a simple cardigan, but it was her shoes that really caught our eye. She styled her dress with a pair of black lace-up espadrille wedges that are perfect for the Summer.
We've already seen Jennifer Aniston wearing a similar style, and you're bound to see more of this classic warm-weather wedge in the upcoming months. Have a look at Pippa's honeymoon style ahead and buy similar versions of her wedges, too.
This Is Why Alessandra Ambrosio's Street Style Is Always So Damn Good
We've never seen a street style look Alessandra Ambrosio has worn that we didn't immediately want, but we're still surprised to see the Brazilian model upping her game year after year. Just when we think she's the most stylish she's ever been, bam, she walks out in an even better outfit.
So far this year, she has shown us athleisure can be sexy in a revealing top, reinforced the power of Winter pastels in a gorgeous maxi dress, and demonstrated that going back to basics with a white sweater and jeans is never a bad idea. Scroll ahead to see those looks and more, and feel totally inspired!
Moana, Trolls, and More Are Coming to Netflix in June For Kids!
If you've got a kiddo who's obsessed with Moana or Trolls, rejoice! The two hit kid movies from last year are hitting Netflix this month, along with some new seasons of Netflix original series and a few other must-see kid flicks. The weather may be warming up, but a good old-fashioned Netflix binge in the air conditioning never hurt nobody.
Ahead, everything that's slated to hit Netflix in June for kids (and see the full lineup for adults here).
Summer Dream Workout - in a Pool!
Cool off while you workout, but skip the crawl and backstroke. You can burn a bunch of calories in the pool - no swimming required. Here are five moves that will get your heart rate up while keeping you refreshed. Add our favorite ab and core exercises into your watery workout to target your middle, too.
15 Things You Never Knew About Tulips
It's not Spring until the first tulip blossoms make their much-anticipated appearance. To celebrate these lovely perennials, we've gathered the most bizarre, historic, and all around interesting facts we could find on them.
Check them out below and then start fantasizing about all the beautiful ways you can display your stems.
1. Tulips originated in Central Asia hundreds of years ago and were brought to Turkey, where they became an important part of the local culture
2. The word "tulip" comes from the Turkish word for turban. This name is sometimes attributed to the tulip's turban-like shape and other times is thought to have been because the Turkish would wear a tulip stem in their turbans
3. Tulips migrated to Europe in the mid 16th century and where a phenomenon in the Netherlands by the 17th century
4. So called Tulip Mania hit during the Dutch Golden Age, causing the tulip market to bubble to huge proportions before crashing down. It was one of the first-ever speculative market bubbles
5. At the peak of Tulip Mania, from around 1634-1637, some single bulbs were said to be priced more than ten times the annual income of wealthy skilled craftsman
Image Source: Shutterstock
6. The Netherlands are still the world's largest producer and exporter of tulips worldwide
7. There are 75 recognized species of tulips and over 3000 varieties
8. The gorgeous streaking that paints the petals of some tulips was originally caused by a viral infection, but today this desirable broken coloring effect is the deliberate result of breeding
9. Tulips start as bulbs, which are living plants with self-contained nutrients rather than seeds
10. Bulbs must be planted in the Fall if they are to blossom in the Spring because a long, dormant period of cool temperatures is needed in order for the biochemistry to occur that causes them to flower
Image Source: Shutterstock
11. Tulips can also be "forced" into blooming if they are stored in a cold place like the refrigerator for a minimum of 12 weeks
12. Tulips are part of the Lily family and are classified a herbaceous perennials
13. Their petals are said to be edible, but unpleasant tasting; however, we don't recommend eating them
14. They come in a myriad of colors but the most famous is Queen of the Night, a dark and dramatic purple so deep it looks black
15. Blossoms are impressively symmetrical in most varieties
Moana, Trolls, and More Are Coming to Netflix in June For Kids!
If you've got a kiddo who's obsessed with Moana or Trolls, rejoice! The two hit kid movies from last year are hitting Netflix this month, along with some new seasons of Netflix original series and a few other must-see kid flicks. The weather may be warming up, but a good old-fashioned Netflix binge in the air conditioning never hurt nobody.
Ahead, everything that's slated to hit Netflix in June for kids (and see the full lineup for adults here).
Summer Dream Workout - in a Pool!
Cool off while you workout, but skip the crawl and backstroke. You can burn a bunch of calories in the pool - no swimming required. Here are five moves that will get your heart rate up while keeping you refreshed. Add our favorite ab and core exercises into your watery workout to target your middle, too.
8 Things You Don't Know About Aldi, Straight From an Insider Employee
We reached out to an Aldi spokeswoman, Liz Ruggles, to find out the answers to our burning questions. How is it possible that everything is so cheap?! Turns out, there's a good reason for that and for the mandatory quarter per cart . . . oh, and for the self-bagging, too. Curious about the behind the scenes of one of the most budget-friendly grocery stores in America, one that attracts 32 million customers each month? Read ahead to get the scoop.
There's a reason prices are so low.
"We're obsessed with value, and by taking a simple approach to grocery shopping, we're able to keep our costs down. We don't have hidden expenses because we choose to save shoppers money rather than have nonessential grocery store services like in-store banking, pharmacies, and check cashing. We also skip the fancy shelving and keep our products right in their display boxes, which saves us (and our shoppers) time and money. We are dedicated to reducing our impact on the environment. So we ask our shoppers to bring their own reusable grocery bags or buy a few at checkout to use for all their trips to Aldi. At our stores, shoppers also pack their own groceries to keep our checkout lines moving."
There's a strategy behind the mandatory purchase of a cart for a quarter.
"Shoppers deposit a quarter to use a cart at our stores, and when they return the cart to the corral, they get their quarter back. This saves everyone money because our staff can focus on serving shoppers inside the store instead of collecting the carts from outside of the store. For many people, this becomes an opportunity to pay it forward. Our shoppers will often just pass their cart onto the next shopper, instead of returning it to the corral."
Aldi has in-house test kitchen chefs.
"We have in-house taste testers, aka our Aldi Test Kitchen Chefs. Our chefs hit pause on developing recipes at least twice a year to taste the quality of our products before they hit the shelves - every single Aldi product. They want to make sure our brands are as good, if not better, than the national brands."
You can return any Aldi-exclusive product for a full refund.
"We're so confident in the quality of our products that we offer a double guarantee, which means if for any reason customers don't like an Aldi-exclusive brand product, we'll give them their money back and replace the item."
Aldi donates expired foods.
"Each of our divisions has the option to contribute to local charities, donate product to causes in their areas, and encourage employees to volunteer with local community organizations. In 2015, we also grew our partnership with Feeding America to make it easier for our stores to donate expired or lightly damaged product to food banks in our communities."
The best way to save money is to buy Aldi-exclusive brands.
"Smart shoppers have found that switching from national brands to Aldi-exclusive brands can save them up to 50 percent on their grocery bill. We also have Aldi Finds - these premium food and household products are only in stores for a limited time. Product variety depends on the season, and there's usually a theme for the week's Finds. For example, starting Dec. 7, we have some great gift options."
Fresh produce is among the bestselling products.
"In 2015, our top selling products included staple items such as eggs, milk, and butter, as well as our fresh produce items such as strawberries, bananas, grapes, and oranges. Additionally, with our Never Any! product line, we offer fresh meat that never contains added antibiotics, hormones, or animal byproducts."
There's no MSG, artificial coloring, or hydrogenated oil in Aldi's products.
"Aldi got rid of added MSG, certified synthetic colors, and partially hydrogenated oils from all of our exclusive brand food products. And more than 90 percent of the products on our shelves are under our exclusive brands."
If You're Thinking About Sticking Around For a Wonder Woman Postcredits Scene, Don't
Superhero films and Easter-egg-filled postcredits scenes practically go hand in hand these days. Marvel is particularly fond of the trend, recently packing in a whopping five end-credits scenes in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. For anyone annoyed by the practice (and I'm with you, because the bathroom line is crazy by the time all of those names go by), Wonder Woman skips out on including a postcredits scene entirely. It's not exactly surprising, either, since the DC Universe hasn't exactly embraced adding extra scenes. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice neglected to include one, although Suicide Squad did (as well as Man of Steel back in 2013).
Wondering why? "I'm not going to say we'd never do one," producer Chuck Roven explained to Cinemablend recently. "There was one in Suicide Squad. But I don't think that we want to feel that we're forced to do something just because we didn't in the past." Luckily, director Patty Jenkins's take on the kickass female superhero is strong enough to survive excluding a gimmicky tease for Justice League. As of Wednesday afternoon, Wonder Woman is sitting pretty at 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, which is higher than its Marvel counterparts (The Avengers scored 92 percent, and Iron Man has 94 percent) and leaps and bounds above Batman v Superman (which has 26 percent) and Suicide Squad (25 percent). If you want to stick around just to enjoy the incredible theme song playing over the credits, though, feel free.
Smart Money Moves to Make After Losing Your Job
The following post was originally featured on GOBankingRates.
When you have overcome the shock of losing your job - and, likely, your main source of income - organizing your finances can have a calming effect. The sooner you make a plan, the easier it will be to cope with your change of circumstances.
Despite being near the top of the list of life's biggest stressors, being fired, being demoted or seeing a change in your financial state does not have to spell doom and gloom. Recent jobs numbers from the US Department of Labor show a marked decline in unemployment, a signal that opportunities do exist for you to reclaim your space in the work force.
In the meantime, use these tactics to deal with short-term demands on your wallet and longer-term financial obligations and ease this stressful financial situation.
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