Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mardi 6 juin 2017
Bella Hadid Walked the CFDA Red Carpet in a Barbie-Pink Minidress - and She Owned It
While Gigi Hadid went the minimalist route at the 2017 CFDA Awards in The Row, sister Bella chose a statement dress for the red carpet. The magenta number by Off-White featured structured padded shoulders and a retro-style wide belt that cinched in the model's waist. The bold look was very '80s, and Bella even changed up her hair with bangs and a blunt cut. See her blazer-like minidress ahead.
Gigi Hadid Channels the Olsen Twins at the 2017 CFDAs
Gigi Hadid was one of many celebrities to make a splash at the 2017 CFDA Awards. The supermodel attended the CFDA carpet with Stuart Weitzman's Creative Director Giovanni Morelli in all-white ensemble that made us do a double-take.
If you're thinking Gigi's minimalist look reminds you of the Olsen twins, you wouldn't be that far off since her floor-length silk gown and a matching long coat was actually designed by the duo for their label The Row. Gigi finished her look off with a sparkly choker necklace and a pair of custom Stuart Weitzman Swarovski crystal slides. Have a look at her full ensemble ahead.
Ashley Graham Opens Up About Being Sexually Harassed When She Was 17
Ashley Graham got incredibly candid with Glamour magazine for her July cover story. Aside from spreading body positivity, the supermodel and America's Next Top Model judge also opened up for the first time about being sexually harassed on set when she was 17. "There was a photo assistant who was into me," she explained. "He was like, 'Hey, come here,' and he led me into a closet. And I was like, 'What?' I thought he was going to show me something. And he pulled me in, and he pulled his penis out. And he was like, 'Grab it.' And I was like, 'No! That's disgusting.' I freaked out. And thank God I was closer to the door, and I just bolted out."
Following the incident, Ashley vowed to never let anyone manipulate what she would do on set, adding that any images she produces are ones she wanted to take. While she isn't against doing nude photoshoots, she also has her limits. "It's a gut intuition. I ask myself, 'Is this right for me, my brand, my career, and my relationship?'" she said referring to her husband, Justin Ervin. Aside from being open and honest with each other, Ashley admitted they have a few rituals for making their relationship work. "We don't go to bed mad at each other," she said. "We play the Nice Game - after a fight, when we're done arguing but there's still a weird energy, whoever says, 'Let's play the Nice Game,' the other person has to say something nice about them. Then [we go back and forth and] we remember why we love each other. And we have a lot of sex."
15 Things My Depression Would Definitely Text Me, If It Could
For those suffering from depression, it can often feel like nothing will ever get better and nobody will ever understand. My personal bouts consist of oversleeping, undereating, shutting down at inappropriate times, disconnecting or isolating myself from the people I care about in an effort "not to burden them," and generally being a challenging person to deal with and get through to.
I think about all the ways depression (and its sh*tty second cousin, anxiety) have made a home in me; like a devil on either shoulder, telling me I don't deserve the things I want, the people I love don't love me back, and the roads to healthy relationships and self-confidence will always be closed for construction. But one of the things I can bring to my decades-long odyssey with mental illness (besides, you know, medication and therapy) is a wry, malapropos sense of humor - because sometimes, it really does seem like there is nothing else. That being said, here are some text messages I just know I'd get from my depression if it could fit its grubby little hands around a cell phone (and if I actually gave it my number).
- It's honestly so crazy to me that you have friends. Isn't that crazy to you?
- You realize nobody like, actually likes you, right? Try looking up "tolerate" in the dictionary, hun.
- They "just want you to be happy?" LOL, you don't really believe that, do you?
- Yeah, that dude is WAY out of your league. Cute that you thought he'd be into you, though.
- Don't you think you're being a little too . . . I dunno . . . happy right now? Snap out of it, girl. It's not always about you!
- Isn't Pinterest so inspiring? It's like, all the things you'll never have and don't deserve, but in one handy place. You should check it multiple times a day!
- You really are better off just keeping your head down, getting your work done, and going home. Nobody will notice because nobody cares!
- You really are better off just saying you're tired, turning down the invite, and staying home. Nobody will notice because nobody cares!
- Wait, you tried to explain our relationship to someone?! I bet you cried! Way to go. Have fun looking insane.
- OMG, my vacay was amazing. Looks like you had a fun couple of weeks without me but I'm so glad to be back - aren't you so glad I'm back?
- Did that doctor just call me "severe?" Way harsh, Tai.
- Hey, we have that 11 hours of sleep that we really need to get to. So what the sun's still out? Seems like the sun's problem.
- Um, Anxiety just told me you were awake half the night thinking about how f*cked up your life is and didn't get the 11 hours of sleep we need to function. Care to explain?
- Wait, who told you your life was f*cked up? Not me, I hope.
- Dude, you're so dramatic. You'll be fiiiine. When have I ever lied to you?
Gigi Hadid Channels the Olsen Twins at the 2017 CFDAs
Gigi Hadid was one of many celebrities to make a splash at the 2017 CFDA Awards. The supermodel attended the CFDA carpet with Stuart Weitzman's Creative Director Giovanni Morelli in all-white ensemble that made us do a double-take.
If you're thinking Gigi's minimalist look reminds you of the Olsen twins, you wouldn't be that far off since her floor-length silk gown and a matching long coat was actually designed by the duo for their label The Row. Gigi finished her look off with a sparkly choker necklace and a pair of custom Stuart Weitzman Swarovski crystal slides. Have a look at her full ensemble ahead.
25 Disney Travel Accessories For the Happiest Trip on Earth
Are you truly a Disney fan if you travel without Mickey and friends? We're going to say no and introduce you to some adorable accessories that will make your adventures even more fun and magical. Luggage tags? Check. Carry-ons? Check. Toiletry bags? Check, and all featuring Disney prints and details, of course. Even if you're not Disney-obsessed, you won't be able to help but love at least a few of the items ahead. Get ready for the happiest trip on earth with these 25 travel accessories.
The Definitive Ranking of LaCroix Flavors
There's sparkling water, and then there's LaCroix, the nectar of gods. Boldly flavored but completely unsweetened, this Midwestern-flavored seltzer brand has captured the hearts of millennials and moms alike. With kitschy Miami Beach vibes, zesty flavors, and the whole no-guilt soda thing going for it, it's hardly surprising that this sparkling beverage has gained such a devoted following. It pains us to say this, but for all the hits - and there are many - there are some serious flavor flops as well. In other words, for every Pamplemousse, there's a Cran-Raspberry. Because I care, and at least partially because I wanted an excuse to try every single flavor, I've ranked all 20 flavors for you here. Without further ado, here's our the definitive ranking of LaCroix flavors.
See The First Photos of the Official Beauty and the Beast Makeup Collection
Update: at this time, the lipstick set is sold out.
Wondering why there wasn't an official makeup collection centered around the live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast? Us too. Disney caters to every detail when it comes to its theatrical releases, so we expected an announcement around the time the film was released, only to learn there wasn't anything in the works.
Sure, there was a limited-edition serum, a (unverified) full-range collection overseas, and even Beauty and the Beast-inspired brushes that weren't affiliated with the film. We even got nail polish. But the lack of authentic Belle-inspired makeup left something to be desired. Alice Through the Looking Glass had an official collaboration, as did the live-action Cinderella remake. This is arguably the most anticipated film of the year - so where is our Beauty and the Beast collection?
Perhaps Disney was testing our patience, much like the Beast's? It doesn't matter, because Lorac Los Angeles partnered with the House of Mouse on a limited-edition makeup collection, launching today! There's a 16-shade eye shadow palette, a cheek palette, and a lip gloss and lipstick collection. And you might shed a tear at how gorgeous everything is.
Scroll through the gallery to see all the products and to learn more about the inspiration behind them!
Pack Your Bags For the Caribbean Island You Haven't Heard of - Yet
Most people have never heard of it. Others confuse it for another Caribbean country, the Dominican Republic. To many Dominicans and the people who love the 290-square-mile island, that's not such a bad thing. Nicknamed the Nature Isle, Dominica (pronounced Domi-NEE-ka), with its miles of undeveloped rainforests (60 percent of the island), healing springs, and no major resorts, is like traveling back to the Garden of Eden.
In fact, in 1998 UNESCO designated Dominica's Morne Trois Pitons National Park a World Heritage Site. New flight routes are making Dominica even more accessible; catch a flight on any major carrier to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and take Seabourne Airlines directly to Dominica's Douglas-Charles Airport, or check out the offering from new affordable transcontinental dreamliner Norwegian! Fly directly from major US cities like Ft. Lauderdale, FL; New York; or Baltimore to neighboring islands Guadeloupe or Martinique (fares as low as $49 one way!). While there, get your fill of powder sand and beach-laying for a day or two, and then head over to Dominica on an hour and a half ferry ride, approaching from the sea like an old world explorer, totally setting the tone for your trip of discovery. Here's just a few of the things to discover on Dominica that'll have you packing your bags.
The Definitive Ranking of LaCroix Flavors
There's sparkling water, and then there's LaCroix, the nectar of gods. Boldly flavored but completely unsweetened, this Midwestern-flavored seltzer brand has captured the hearts of millennials and moms alike. With kitschy Miami Beach vibes, zesty flavors, and the whole no-guilt soda thing going for it, it's hardly surprising that this sparkling beverage has gained such a devoted following. It pains us to say this, but for all the hits - and there are many - there are some serious flavor flops as well. In other words, for every Pamplemousse, there's a Cran-Raspberry. Because I care, and at least partially because I wanted an excuse to try every single flavor, I've ranked all 20 flavors for you here. Without further ado, here's our the definitive ranking of LaCroix flavors.
Wonder Woman's Themyscira May Not Be a Real Place, but This Destination Is
If you haven't seen Wonder Woman yet (spoiler: it's amazing), we can almost promise that you'll be searching one thing immediately after watching. And that's if the hidden and stunning island of Themyscira exists. While the home of Wonder Woman and the Amazons is sadly not a real place on Earth, the location where the movie was filmed is: the Amalfi Coast in Italy.
According to Radio Times Travel, director Patty Jenkins chose not to shoot in Greece or Rome, despite how Themyscira has long been characterized by Greco-Roman architecture. She thought it was too masculine and popular of a location to make it the nation of the immortal warrior women.
Image Source: DC Entertainment Inc.
"When the comic originally came out, people had not traveled so extensively to Greece and Rome, so they were considered completely exotic," she told the outlet. "I wanted our Themyscira to inspire awe like it did originally: a fantastical place that nevertheless feels like it could really exist . . . not primitive but not futuristic, either."
Production designer Aline Bonetto and her location manager, Charles Somers, finally settled on Italy's picturesque and rocky coast after considering 47 countries. The Amalfi Coast fit multiple qualifications of what they were envisioning. They were filming in Europe's colder months of March and needed somewhere warm enough where the Amazonians could wear their minimal costumes, as well as a paradise with a big enough beach to shoot the battle scene with the Germans.
Image Source: DC Entertainment Inc.
"Italy had beautiful weather, a beautiful blue-green sea, not too much tide, not too much wave," Aline told Radio Times. "Our effects team added some cliffs in post-production, and it was the perfect way to go."
The scene where Steve Trevor (played by Chris Pine) is soaking in the illuminating, cloud-like baths also reminded us of the "cotton castle" hot springs of Pamukkale, Turkey.
See photos ahead to compare for yourself!
Kat Von D Fans, We Found Your New Favorite Goth Beauty Brand
If your wardrobe incorporates more charcoal than millennial pink and your vanity contains more Kat Von D than Too Faced, you're going to fall head over heels for indie brand Cryptic Cosmetics. The goth-inspired indie line is run by blogger Christina Parga, known by Depechegurl on Instagram, and includes three collections of richly pigmented, edgy liquid lipsticks.
The liquid lipsticks are impressively opaque and smooth shades that will speak to your black soul. The Gore Couture line includes five mauve hues that are versatile enough to go with a clean cat eye for work and a sexy smudged look for night. Explore the six-piece Till Death Do Us Part collection if you're a fan of warmer brown-based tones. The He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not offering includes a berry-colored He Loves Me and a dark purple He Loves Me Not, so you can switch up your look or use them to contour your pout.
The gloomy lippies are sold online for $17 each, a sweet deal for liquid lipsticks that go on in one smooth swipe and last all day. The part that makes these a must-have product, though, is that the brand (like KVD!) is entirely cruelty-free and vegan, meaning you can look hot without worrying if your bold lipstick has ever harmed an animal. Read on to find out which shades to try based on your favorite Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick ($20) shades.
Every Outfit Made a Serious Splash at This Year's CFDA Awards
The CFDA Awards celebrate excellence in design, spotlighting up-and-coming talent most often. This is a forecast as to which labels will be big and red carpet worthy in the upcoming year. So of course, admiring what celebrities and supermodels wear to the event is of utmost importance. In a way, they're partnering with the fashion houses they believe in and feel good wearing.
You can't possibly ignore Diane Kruger in her electric-blue Monse column dress, splashed with sequins. And model Imaan Hammam's bold choice of Adam Selman denim proves he's capable of upping the fancy factor with typically casual pieces. Scroll for a look at all the notable looks of the evening.
See The First Photos of the Official Beauty and the Beast Makeup Collection
Update: at this time, the lipstick set is sold out.
Wondering why there wasn't an official makeup collection centered around the live-action remake of Beauty and the Beast? Us too. Disney caters to every detail when it comes to its theatrical releases, so we expected an announcement around the time the film was released, only to learn there wasn't anything in the works.
Sure, there was a limited-edition serum, a (unverified) full-range collection overseas, and even Beauty and the Beast-inspired brushes that weren't affiliated with the film. We even got nail polish. But the lack of authentic Belle-inspired makeup left something to be desired. Alice Through the Looking Glass had an official collaboration, as did the live-action Cinderella remake. This is arguably the most anticipated film of the year - so where is our Beauty and the Beast collection?
Perhaps Disney was testing our patience, much like the Beast's? It doesn't matter, because Lorac Los Angeles partnered with the House of Mouse on a limited-edition makeup collection, launching today! There's a 16-shade eye shadow palette, a cheek palette, and a lip gloss and lipstick collection. And you might shed a tear at how gorgeous everything is.
Scroll through the gallery to see all the products and to learn more about the inspiration behind them!
Nick Carter as a Dad Will Only Carry Your Boy Band Crush Into Adulthood
If you've been a fan of the Backstreet Boys since they first burst onto the scene in the '90s, then you've probably been in love with Nick Carter since then. Between his blond hair, wickedly cute smile, and singing "Am I sexual?" on the band's hit "Everybody," Nick is what boy band crushes are made of. And any true BSB fan knows that you don't just grow out of our childhood crush . . . you grow up with it. Thankfully, the boys are still together and currently crushing their Las Vegas residency, but Nick, 37, is also now a husband and father. The "19 in 99" singer married fitness trainer Lauren Kitt in 2014, and the two welcomed their first child, son Odin, in April 2016. Thankfully, the couple share adorable family moments on social media, but be warned - seeing Nick as a dad will only make you love him more.
7 Causes That Were Near and Dear to Princess Diana's Heart
Princess Diana was known for her impeccable sense of style and flawless beauty, but she is best remembered for her heart of gold. Diana spoke out on a wide range of issues close to her heart - including HIV/AIDS, leprosy, and cancer - and used her global influence to raise awareness as well as funds. She regularly visited hospitals, schools, and fundraising galas and even took trips to Angola, India, and Pakistan, touching the lives of many wherever she went. While Diana is no longer around, her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, have carried on her legacy by championing some the same charities and causes as their mother and carrying on her traditions in their personal lives.
Every Outfit Made a Serious Splash at This Year's CFDA Awards
The CFDA Awards celebrate excellence in design, spotlighting up-and-coming talent most often. This is a forecast as to which labels will be big and red carpet worthy in the upcoming year. So of course, admiring what celebrities and supermodels wear to the event is of utmost importance. In a way, they're partnering with the fashion houses they believe in and feel good wearing.
You can't possibly ignore Diane Kruger in her electric blue Monse column dress, splashed with sequins. And model Imaan Hammam's bold choice of Adam Selman denim proves he's capable of upping the fancy factor with typically casual pieces. Scroll for a look at all the notable looks of the evening.
17 Fun and Flirty One-Piece Swimsuits - All Under $50
There's no mistaking it: the one-piece swimsuit is getting tons of attention this season. And for good reason. There are many stylish options out there, and even more with small price tags. We pulled the best picks so you don't have to go digging around the internet for the perfect purchase. Take a look at these finds under $50 and score yourself a Summer treat. With these kind of prices, you might even want to buy two.
4 Wonder Woman Scenes That Could Have Been Very Different If They'd Been Directed by a Man
Throughout Wonder Woman, director Patty Jenkins repeatedly puts up a stop sign right before things could take a sexual turn in the female-led superhero film. Doing so safeguards both star Gal Gadot and Wonder Woman's image as a respected, feminist icon and shields the princess of Themyscira from becoming yet another filmic sex object. For starters, Jenkins eliminated the stars around Wonder Woman's groin region. Jenkins also turns down the volume on the Wonder Woman outfit; by dulling and muting the loud hues from her comic book past, Jenkins allows the DC queen's personality to bring color to the big screen.
Jenkins presents Wonder Woman tastefully in other ways. There's no denying that Gadot makes a drop-dead gorgeous Wonder Woman, but her beauty is continually bested by her bravery and smarts. Moments come and go in the film that could easily be sexually charged, but Jenkins defuses them before our very eyes. Below are four Wonder Woman scenes that might have been very different if they had been directed by a man - or to generalize less, a director who catered to the male gaze.
1. When Wonder Woman Eats an Ice Cream Cone For the First Time
Wonder Woman gleefully grabs a vanilla ice cream cone in the film. Her eyes light up as she licks the dessert with pleasure but only for a split second. The goddess appears like a child trying a lollipop for the first time instead of a woman putting her mouth on a phallic object. Had someone else shot this scene, the innocence could have been lifted with an extreme close-up and a lengthening of the shot. "You should be very proud!" the incognito warrior princess praises the ice cream man as she shakes the cone at him. It is an adorable, stainless scene but one that could have easily been turned into something far more provocative had the camera been in the hands of a male director.
2. When Wonder Woman Has Sex With Steve
In the film, it can be safely assumed that Diana and US Air Force Captain Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) make love as snow falls gently outside the place they're staying at for the night. Steve walks Diana to her room as she flashes him "come hither" eyes. The two kiss passionately, when suddenly, the camera transports audiences out of the bedroom and onto the cement pavement outside.
There, the audience watches snow fall softly, giving the impression that if lovemaking is going on behind the closed windows, it's happening just as delicately and affectionately as the snowfall making contact with the pavement. This cutaway scene is an example of how Jenkins respects Wonder Woman. She upholds her privacy and leaves what happens behind closed doors up to viewers' interpretations instead of seizing an opportunity to expose Gadot's body. Had someone else directed this scene, it might not have been so soft and gentle. In fact, it likely could have looked like a sex scene straight out of 300.
3. When Wonder Woman Tries On Multiple Outfits
To keep Wonder Woman hidden, Steve takes her to a clothing shop to fish out a new outfit. During the scene, the beautiful Gadot tries on a string of ensembles. What follows is slightly clumsy and fully comical. Firstly, Diana almost strips in front of everyone, unaware of the concept of a dressing room, but Jenkins quickly advances the scene before Diana can take anything off. If the male gaze was ruling the director's chair, it's probable that some skin would have been shown right then and there.
The princess even complains that her shirt is "choking her," a relatable, feminist touch that only Jenkins could bring to the film treatment. That small complaint is just one of the subtle details that add to the female mosaic that makes up the modern version of Wonder Woman. To add humor to the scene, Diana is then shown accidentally ripping a pencil skirt while kicking her leg out. She isn't trying to look sexy while shopping - she's trying to kick ass, literally. What made audiences hold their stomachs from laughter could have doubled as prime time to show off an objectified Gadot.
4. When Wonder Woman Reveals Her Iconic Armor
Diana introduces the world to Wonder Woman in the most powerful way possible. As she ascends from a ladder into No Man's Land, Diana carries herself like the volcanic force she knows she is. She climbs up the ladder in the film, mirroring the climb of women up the ladder of patriarchy today. The scene places emphasis on her hard-as-nails stare and bulletproof demeanor instead of her killer curves. As she walks toward the warring Germans, she deflects a bullet. Finally, her armor is revealed in full. Had it been meant to feed the male gaze, it might have been ushered in quite differently. Through calculated angling and lighting, Jenkins transforms Wonder Woman's short outfit into a source of power. It's plausible that the same outfit could have been portrayed as a gilded Victoria's Secret one-piece had certain male directors had their way. Yet, luckily for us, we had a female director who made the conscious decision to glorify Wonder Woman's strength over her sex appeal time and again.
Grown-Up '90s Girls: Get Your Polly Pocket On With This Nostalgic Purse
Calling all grown-up '90s kids! Your favorite childhood toy has officially become an adult-friendly fashion statement, in the form of UK brand Truffle Shuffle's new Polly Pocket purse. That's right, the iconic doll sets are back as a nostalgic crossbody handbag, and it will reportedly be available for worldwide sale starting on June 23!
The pink, heart-shaped purses draw inspiration from the iconic heart-shaped Polly Pocket setting and include prints of the classic doll figures on the lining. Now, excuse us while we drop $49 for one of these supercute nostalgic bags . . . don't judge us for treating ourselves in the name of the good ol' days!
This Instagram Account Is the Virtual Book Club You Never Knew You Needed
At the start of 2017, Sabrina Rodriguez began sharing succinct and approachable descriptions of popular books written by Latinx authors. Through her Instagram account, LatinxReads, she's created a virtual book club for people in search of recommendations. Months later, she's suggested nearly 100 books and amassed over 6,000 followers and counting.
In an interview with Latina, Sabrina said she started the social media project when she started to feel disconnected from her Puerto Rican, Cuban, and Italian background. She said, "As the Instagram gained followers, I realized that there are so many people out there who feel that same disconnect. So I began posting books every day and grew it into a community where authors, readers, and Latinxs of any kind can join to take a look at a book they may be interested in."
Within each post, Sabrina will often share some information about the author, setting, and her own opinion about the book, in addition to a brief synopsis. Ahead, check out some of Sabrina's recent posts and consider adding a few of these books to your list.
Nick Carter as a Dad Will Only Carry Your Boy Band Crush Into Adulthood
If you've been a fan of the Backstreet Boys since they first burst onto the scene in the '90s, then you've probably been in love with Nick Carter since then. Between his blond hair, wickedly cute smile, and singing "Am I sexual?" on the band's hit "Everybody," Nick is what boy band crushes are made of. And any true BSB fan knows that you don't just grow out of our childhood crush . . . you grow up with it. Thankfully, the boys are still together and currently crushing their Las Vegas residency, but Nick, 37, is also now a husband and father. The "19 in 99" singer married fitness trainer Lauren Kitt in 2014, and the two welcomed their first child, son Odin, in April 2016. Thankfully, the couple share adorable family moments on social media, but be warned - seeing Nick as a dad will only make you love him more.
7 Causes That Were Near and Dear to Princess Diana's Heart
Princess Diana was known for her impeccable sense of style and flawless beauty, but she is best remembered for her heart of gold. Diana spoke out on a wide range of issues close to her heart - including HIV/AIDS, leprosy, and cancer - and used her global influence to raise awareness as well as funds. She regularly visited hospitals, schools, and fundraising galas and even took trips to Angola, India, and Pakistan, touching the lives of many wherever she went. While Diana is no longer around, her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, have carried on her legacy by championing some the same charities and causes as their mother and carrying on her traditions in their personal lives.
4 Wonder Woman Scenes That Could Have Been Very Different If They'd Been Directed by a Man
Throughout Wonder Woman, director Patty Jenkins repeatedly puts up a stop sign right before things could take a sexual turn in the female-led superhero film. Doing so safeguards both star Gal Gadot and Wonder Woman's image as a respected, feminist icon and shields the princess of Themyscira from becoming yet another filmic sex object. For starters, Jenkins eliminated the stars around Wonder Woman's groin region. Jenkins also turns down the volume on the Wonder Woman outfit; by dulling and muting the loud hues from her comic book past, Jenkins allows the DC queen's personality to bring color to the big screen.
Jenkins presents Wonder Woman tastefully in other ways. There's no denying that Gadot makes a drop-dead gorgeous Wonder Woman, but her beauty is continually bested by her bravery and smarts. Moments come and go in the film that could easily be sexually charged, but Jenkins defuses them before our very eyes. Below are four Wonder Woman scenes that might have been very different if they had been directed by a man - or to generalize less, a director who catered to the male gaze.
1. When Wonder Woman Eats an Ice Cream Cone For the First Time
Wonder Woman gleefully grabs a vanilla ice cream cone in the film. Her eyes light up as she licks the dessert with pleasure but only for a split second. The goddess appears like a child trying a lollipop for the first time instead of a woman putting her mouth on a phallic object. Had someone else shot this scene, the innocence could have been lifted with an extreme close-up and a lengthening of the shot. "You should be very proud!" the incognito warrior princess praises the ice cream man as she shakes the cone at him. It is an adorable, stainless scene but one that could have easily been turned into something far more provocative had the camera been in the hands of a male director.
2. When Wonder Woman Has Sex With Steve
In the film, it can be safely assumed that Diana and US Air Force Captain Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) make love as snow falls gently outside the place they're staying at for the night. Steve walks Diana to her room as she flashes him "come hither" eyes. The two kiss passionately, when suddenly, the camera transports audiences out of the bedroom and onto the cement pavement outside.
There, the audience watches snow fall softly, giving the impression that if lovemaking is going on behind the closed windows, it's happening just as delicately and affectionately as the snowfall making contact with the pavement. This cutaway scene is an example of how Jenkins respects Wonder Woman. She upholds her privacy and leaves what happens behind closed doors up to viewers' interpretations instead of seizing an opportunity to expose Gadot's body. Had someone else directed this scene, it might not have been so soft and gentle. In fact, it likely could have looked like a sex scene straight out of 300.
3. When Wonder Woman Tries On Multiple Outfits
To keep Wonder Woman hidden, Steve takes her to a clothing shop to fish out a new outfit. During the scene, the beautiful Gadot tries on a string of ensembles. What follows is slightly clumsy and fully comical. Firstly, Diana almost strips in front of everyone, unaware of the concept of a dressing room, but Jenkins quickly advances the scene before Diana can take anything off. If the male gaze was ruling the director's chair, it's probable that some skin would have been shown right then and there.
The princess even complains that her shirt is "choking her," a relatable, feminist touch that only Jenkins could bring to the film treatment. That small complaint is just one of the subtle details that add to the female mosaic that makes up the modern version of Wonder Woman. To add humor to the scene, Diana is then shown accidentally ripping a pencil skirt while kicking her leg out. She isn't trying to look sexy while shopping - she's trying to kick ass, literally. What made audiences hold their stomachs from laughter could have doubled as prime time to show off an objectified Gadot.
4. When Wonder Woman Reveals Her Iconic Armor
Diana introduces the world to Wonder Woman in the most powerful way possible. As she ascends from a ladder into No Man's Land, Diana carries herself like the volcanic force she knows she is. She climbs up the ladder in the film, mirroring the climb of women up the ladder of patriarchy today. The scene places emphasis on her hard-as-nails stare and bulletproof demeanor instead of her killer curves. As she walks toward the warring Germans, she deflects a bullet. Finally, her armor is revealed in full. Had it been meant to feed the male gaze, it might have been ushered in quite differently. Through calculated angling and lighting, Jenkins transforms Wonder Woman's short outfit into a source of power. It's plausible that the same outfit could have been portrayed as a gilded Victoria's Secret one-piece had certain male directors had their way. Yet, luckily for us, we had a female director who made the conscious decision to glorify Wonder Woman's strength over her sex appeal time and again.
Why Is Attendance at Disney Parks on the Decline Worldwide?
Based on the perpetual 45-minute or more wait in line for Peter Pan's Flight at Disneyland, it's pretty hard to believe that the parks aren't boasting their best numbers ever. In fact, Disney park attendance worldwide declined last year - with the exception of Shanghai Disney, which just opened in 2016.
In an independent report by the Themed Entertainment Association and Aecom, data show that the amount of park-goers in 11 out of 12 Disney parks decreased between 2015 and 2016. Disneyland's attendance declined by almost two percent, while some international Disney parks saw even bigger drops. Disneyland Paris, for instance, saw a whopping 14 percent decrease in visitors.
So what's the reason behind this rare decline?
In an attempt to curb overcrowding issues at some of the parks, ticket prices have been increased at many parks, which is believed to be at least part of the change. Rising ticket costs for daily and annual passes could have deterred some visitors in the past year from attending the parks, or they could've opted to visit parks with lower costs.
It's also suspected that part of the decline in attendance at Disneyland Paris is due to the threat of terrorism in Europe, which is affecting general tourism across the continent. Disney told The New York Times that it is "investing behind the wealth of great franchises we have in order to deliver magical experiences that exceed our guests' expectations," citing ongoing construction projects at multiple parks as potentially having an impact on the numbers.
But is a decline in attendance actually a bad thing?
Intuitively, a decline in attendance could mean a decline in revenue from the parks, but this is Disney we're talking about, and it's got a strategy for just about everything. Revenue between 2015 and 2016 was actually up five percent at domestic (US) operations, which, according to the original report, reflects "increased guest spending, reportedly driven by higher average prices for admissions to theme parks and cruise line bookings, increased food, beverage, and merchandise spending, and higher room rates."
This means that while ticket prices, construction, and other factors may be discouraging some guests from attending the parks, the visitors who do come are still spending money and enjoying their experiences - perhaps more than ever before. Less overcrowding is never a bad thing for fans wanting to get in all their favorite things to do at the parks, and we're sure Disney has something up its sleeve to ensure that it is moving ever-forward, as always. The recent openings of the World of Avatar at Walt Disney World and the new Guardians of the Galaxy ride at Disneyland are even more reasons tourists will be flocking to the parks in the near future. Attendance is expected to rise again in 2017.
This Instagram Account Is the Virtual Book Club You Never Knew You Needed
At the start of 2017, Sabrina Rodriguez began sharing succinct and approachable descriptions of popular books written by Latinx authors. Through her Instagram account, LatinxReads, she's created a virtual book club for people in search of recommendations. Months later, she's suggested nearly 100 books and amassed over 6,000 followers and counting.
In an interview with Latina, Sabrina said she started the social media project when she started to feel disconnected from her Puerto Rican, Cuban, and Italian background. She said, "As the Instagram gained followers, I realized that there are so many people out there who feel that same disconnect. So I began posting books every day and grew it into a community where authors, readers, and Latinxs of any kind can join to take a look at a book they may be interested in."
Within each post, Sabrina will often share some information about the author, setting, and her own opinion about the book, in addition to a brief synopsis. Ahead, check out some of Sabrina's recent posts and consider adding a few of these books to your list.
lundi 5 juin 2017
17 Fun and Flirty One-Piece Swimsuits - All Under $50
There's no mistaking it: the one-piece swimsuit is getting tons of attention this season. And for good reason. There are many stylish options out there, and even more with small price tags. We pulled the best picks so you don't have to go digging around the internet for the perfect purchase. Take a look at these finds under $50 and score yourself a Summer treat. With these kind of prices, you might even want to buy two.
The Fascinating Evolution of Wonder Woman
From warrior princess to model to babysitter, Wonder Woman's 76-year history didn't always include lassos and capes.
Here's Your First Peek at Fall's New TV Shows!
This is a hugely exciting time for TV addicts: shows are being canceled and renewed left and right, new Summer series are beginning to roll out, and networks are unveiling their plans for the Fall. Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, The CW have already made some big announcements about the new shows they've greenlit for the 2017 to 2018 season, and we can't wait to sink our teeth into them. Lucy Hale, Adam Scott, Emily VanCamp, and more stars are coming to primetime!
11 DIY Beauty Remedies Your Grandma Always Talked About That Actually Work
Every abuela has one: that wild concoction she whips up from ingredients in her kitchen and swears by every time you have a pimple, dry skin, unruly hair - you name it. As kids, most of us rolled our eyes and went along with it, but we've done a little digging, and it turns out maybe Grandma wasn't so crazy after all. Many of those beauty recipes actually work! Warning: do try these 11 practices at home for smooth skin and silky hair - or get these beauty buys that are also grandma-approved.
1. Using mayonnaise as a deep conditioner for healthy hair.
According to hairstylist Nathaniel Hawkins, this old-school method works because of the fat to protein ratio. "The oil softens the hair, making it shinier - and the protein in the eggs will make strands stronger." He recommends applying the treatment to dry hair, and leaving it on as a mask for 15-20 minutes. Shampoo twice, and condition afterwards. But, Hawkins notes, this treatment works best for hair that isn't fine or limp.
2. Dabbing nails in olive oil for a healthier look.
Nail expert Stephanie Stone debunked the myth (common in Dominican culture) that rubbing garlic on nails will make them strong (according to studies, it has no benefit). But, she says, applying olive oil (a popular DIY beauty ingredient in Puerto Rico) on nails and cuticles throughout the day is a great way to improve their health. "Keeping your hands and nails moisturized is key, especially if you're trying to repair damaged nail beds. I'd also recommend applying it lightly throughout the day instead of a full on soak. But consistency is key!"
3. Coconut oil as a body moisturizer.
"This one 100% works," says dermatologist (and Sofia Vergara's derm!) Dendy Engelman, M.D., of coconut oil for soft skin, a popular technique in many Latin American countries. "Coconut oil is mostly made up of saturated fats and medium-chain fatty acids, which help repair the skin barrier, trap water to hydrate skin, and also reduce inflammation. And recent studies show it's also a great treatment for eczema."
4. Adding honey to hair conditioner for softer tresses.
A custom common in Caribbean Latin America, honey is a natural moisturizer, which Hawkins says does work to help rehydrate your locks. And using unprocessed honey will give you an extra bonus: it's full of enzymes that will help create a healthy scalp and prevent dandruff.
5. Agua maravilla to fight blemishes.
Also known as witch hazel, this is common in many Latino families, especially from Puerto Rican and Dominican backgrounds. Engelman says it works because the mixture contains anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antibacterial properties. Engelman also recommends Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Refreshingly Clean Towelettes ($6) to control blemishes and calm bug bites.
6. Washing hair with Coca-Cola for shine.
This is a long-time favorite technique among not just Latino families, but celebrities like Suki Waterhouse. Hairstylist Nunzio Saviano gives this traditional trick the thumbs up: "The acidity closes the hair cuticle, which makes it look healthy and shiny. But be careful: the sugar can leave your hair sticky, so you might need to rinse it out quickly. Apple cider vinegar is an alternative that might not be as messy!"
7. Beach sand as a skin exfoliant.
"Sand is essentially finely granulated rocks, so it's perfect to remove excess dry skin cells," Engelman says. "But because it's so abrasive, I'd only recommend you use it to exfoliate feet. It might be too harsh for other parts of your body."
8. Manzanilla grisi shampoo to lighten hair.
Saviano says that this traditionally Mexican and South American product - which contains Flor de Manzanilla and claims to both wash and lighten hair - does work, but he would use it sparingly. "This will maintain your tone and even lighten it at times, but if you use it too much, your color might become dull or even fade."
9. Grape skin paste for glowing skin.
Grapes are a gold mine, says Engelman. "They'll have a brightening effect over time because they contain vitamins B6, C, and A, and minerals like potassium, magnesium, selenium, and flavonoids, which act as antioxidants and remove toxins from the skin."
10. Sugar and lemon juice as an antiaging exfoliant.
According to Engelman, the sugar crystals act as an exfoliator, sloughing away dead skin, while the lemon juice helps peel away dead skin cells because of their content of alpha hydroxy acid (which is found in many antiaging treatments). Exfoliating is important, Engelman says, "because as we age, our skin doesn't shed as effectively. Plus, getting rid of dead cells helps your moisturizers penetrate better."
11. Avocado for healthy cuticles.
"Actually, rubbing avocado oil on cuticles is more effective than actual avocado," says Stone. But good news for avocado lovers: "Avocados in a healthy, balanced diet will help you see overall improvement in your hair, skin, and nails, too." Bring on the guacamole!
The Fascinating Evolution of Wonder Woman
From warrior princess to model to babysitter, Wonder Woman's 76-year history didn't always include lassos and capes.
Here's Your First Peek at Fall's New TV Shows!
This is a hugely exciting time for TV addicts: shows are being canceled and renewed left and right, new Summer series are beginning to roll out, and networks are unveiling their plans for the Fall. Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, The CW have already made some big announcements about the new shows they've greenlit for the 2017 to 2018 season, and we can't wait to sink our teeth into them. Lucy Hale, Adam Scott, Emily VanCamp, and more stars are coming to primetime!
12 Moves Celebrity Trainer David Kirsch Says Every Woman Should Do
They call David Kirsch "the sculpt master," and after training one-on-one in the last few weeks leading up to my wedding, I understood why. At my last wedding dress fitting, my arms and upper back were spilling out over my strapless dress.
"Oh well," I admitted to myself, "I guess I'll be a little chubby in my dress."
Then David stepped in, training me about four times per week for the two weeks leading up to the big day. In addition to doing his full-body workouts - which were always different and truly challenging - I followed his low-carb, low-fat, high-protein diet. Like any great makeover story with a happy ending, on the day of my wedding, my dress was actually a bit roomy and I felt totally confident with my shape. You can see me after my final workout (with David) in the photo above.
David is a body sculpter and also a master trainer. His résumé is quite honestly too long to list. But here are some highlights: He founded Madison Square Club, which is one of the nicest gyms I've been to in New York City. He has written five books, including the bestseller The Ultimate New York Body Plan; launched his own line of protein powders and supplements (my favorite is the A.M. Daily Detox); and trained celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Heidi Klum, and Liv Tyler. So getting my ass kicked by him was honestly a dream! And his regimen worked.
Since we can't all pay the big bucks or make it to NYC, he rounded up his favorite total-body toning moves for you to try at home! You can bet I'll be doing them on my own at the gym.
12 Moves Celebrity Trainer David Kirsch Says Every Woman Should Do
They call David Kirsch "the sculpt master," and after training one-on-one in the last few weeks leading up to my wedding, I understood why. At my last wedding dress fitting, my arms and upper back were spilling out over my strapless dress.
"Oh well," I admitted to myself, "I guess I'll be a little chubby in my dress."
Then David stepped in, training me about four times per week for the two weeks leading up to the big day. In addition to doing his full-body workouts - which were always different and truly challenging - I followed his low-carb, low-fat, high-protein diet. Like any great makeover story with a happy ending, on the day of my wedding, my dress was actually a bit roomy and I felt totally confident with my shape. You can see me after my final workout (with David) in the photo above.
David is a body sculpter and also a master trainer. His résumé is quite honestly too long to list. But here are some highlights: He founded Madison Square Club, which is one of the nicest gyms I've been to in New York City. He has written five books, including the bestseller The Ultimate New York Body Plan; launched his own line of protein powders and supplements (my favorite is the A.M. Daily Detox); and trained celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Heidi Klum, and Liv Tyler. So getting my ass kicked by him was honestly a dream! And his regimen worked.
Since we can't all pay the big bucks or make it to NYC, he rounded up his favorite total-body toning moves for you to try at home! You can bet I'll be doing them on my own at the gym.
Vegans Rejoice: There's a Delicious Veggie Burger For You at Disneyland
Vegans, there's yet another reason to love Disneyland - The Carnation Café on Main Street has a delectable meat-free dish for lunch and dinner, and it's house-made by Disneyland chefs.
Hungry and want a delicious vegan option? The Chef's Vegan Burger at Carnation Cafe will have your taste buds singing & dancing! #Housemade http://pic.twitter.com/aZZL0upNGa
- Disneyland Today (@DisneylandToday) June 5, 2017
We found the Chef's Vegan Burger (pictured above) on the list of Disneyland's vegan and vegetarian options (did you know there are vegan Mickey Mouse waffles?!), and then spotted it on the Carnation Café menu online.
Here's what's in the $13 burger, according to the menu: "House-made bean and vegetable patty, tomatoes, lettuce, pickled red onions, and vegan chipotle-mayonnaise on a wheat roll with your choice of fresh fruit or seasoned French fries." Uhmmm, OK, deliciousness! We're in.
Vegans Rejoice: There's a Delicious Veggie Burger For You at Disneyland
Vegans, there's yet another reason to love Disneyland - The Carnation Café on Main Street has a delectable meat-free dish for lunch and dinner, and it's house-made by Disneyland chefs.
Hungry and want a delicious vegan option? The Chef's Vegan Burger at Carnation Cafe will have your taste buds singing & dancing! #Housemade http://pic.twitter.com/aZZL0upNGa
- Disneyland Today (@DisneylandToday) June 5, 2017
We found the Chef's Vegan Burger (pictured above) on the list of Disneyland's vegan and vegetarian options (did you know there are vegan Mickey Mouse waffles?!), and then spotted it on the Carnation Café menu online.
Here's what's in the $13 burger, according to the menu: "House-made bean and vegetable patty, tomatoes, lettuce, pickled red onions, and vegan chipotle-mayonnaise on a wheat roll with your choice of fresh fruit or seasoned French fries." Uhmmm, OK, deliciousness! We're in.
Limited-Edition Chocolate Pop Rocks Exist, and You Need to Try Them
I was perusing the candy aisle at my local candy store, because why not? I mean, it's part of my job to be the full-on guinea pig taste-tester for new products, so I'm always on the lookout for things I've never seen before. These "limited edition" chocolate Pop Rocks totally caught my attention. At first, I thought they were chocolate-flavored Pop Rocks, but upon careful inspection, they are actually just milk-chocolate-covered Pop Rocks. Still intrigued, I ripped open the pack and dumped a handful of what I can only describe as the cutest tiny animal poops into my hand. My friend made a joke about calling them "Poop Rocks," which made me chuckle just a bit, and then I tossed them in my mouth.
My friend made a joke about calling them "Poop Rocks," which made me chuckle just a bit, and then I tossed them in my mouth.
Now we had quite the debate over them, with some people in the group thinking that they lacked the firepower potency of the OG rocks, but my friend and I really enjoyed them. Sure, they didn't snap, crackle, and pop on contact, but the slowly melting milk chocolate made for a quite enjoyable experience. It was smooth at first, and then the pops almost caught me by surprise! It was refreshing and fun.
Once I got home, I dug into the origin story of these little gems. As far as I can tell via internet digging, they've been around since 2006. Limited edition going on year 11 now? The website leaves zero clues as to when they were launched and if they ever have a chance of becoming a regular flavor vs. living in their ambiguous state. All I have to say is I'm so glad that I found them. If you do see them in your local candy aisle, do yourself a favor and give them a try.
9 Mini Drugstore Products You Need For Your Next Trip - All $12 or Less
Between the price of airfare and lodging, travel can get expensive. But you can cut down on costs by purchasing drugstore minis that are just as good as the high-end versions. Having all your beauty and skincare essentials prepared before you take flight will only make things easier on you, too. So whether you need makeup or skincare products, we have top-rated drugstore items in tiny packaging. Feel glam no matter where you are.
How the Women of Country Music Inspired My Journey Into Drag
I'm from a really, really small village in the deep Northwoods of Wisconsin. No neighbors for miles around. I was very close to my grandparents. My grandfather was a lifelong country musician, so I grew up playing guitar and singing folk music with him. Long before I was a drag queen, I was interested in singing folk music. My hometown was so tiny and so remote that when I was younger, I didn't even know what a drag queen was. But I did have a lesbian aunt.
She was the first one to tell me about Pride. I was maybe 15, and she knew I was gay as hell. She was like, "Oh, we'll have to get you to down to Milwaukee. Come down for Pride Festival." She would tell me what musicians were set to play, and that first time we saw Joan Jett, who I really loved. Joan Jett is just such a great, great songwriter. I remember standing there in this big audience. I was just this 15-year-old in this sea of lesbians and their children.
There's Joan Jett: 60 years old, paper-white skin, wearing leather pants and a corset, and playing this big, black electric guitar. She's singing "Crimson and Clover," and this whole choir of lesbians around me is singing. Before I related to the gay community in any way, I related to being a musician. Being so close to my lesbian aunt, standing there and hearing a choir of aggressively lesbian women singing beautiful Joan Jett music, I felt so included in just this little bubble. And I'll never hear Joan Jett music without thinking of that experience.
Before I related to the gay community in any way, I related to being a musician.Obviously, I'm from a very conservative area. I didn't know where I was going to fit in the world of musicians because I was definitely a homo. Which is funny now, because I love country music, and if you know your country music history, those women were in f*cking drag. Grand Ole Opry? Loretta Lynn and June Carter Cash and Dolly Parton? Back in the day for a woman in country music, the only way you could launch a career was if you were an accessory in a successful male country star's show. Your job was basically to be gorgeous, sing a little, and tell jokes. You know, be the sexy comedic relief. I mean, tell me that's not what a drag queen does.
I didn't really get into drag for another couple of years after that fateful first Pride with Joan Jett. I saw the Rocky Horror Picture Show when I was 17, before I went out to college, and I really loved the music in it. Growing up, I loved people who were drag queens without knowing they were drag queens. I loved Peg Bundy. I loved Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors. I loved Dolly Parton. People that were in drag without me really realizing that they were in drag.
I went to college and I started performing in a Rocky Horror show, a shadow casting at the movie theater. As a little gay guy from the country, it was a great way to be weird in the cover of darkness and not worry about being identified as weird. Because, well, you're in a room full of weirdos. I played the part of Trixie, the usherette in the beginning. That's actually part of how I ended up with that drag name. It was actually kind of serendipitous; that's what my stepdad used to call me when he was telling me I was too feminine or too sensitive. He would call me a Trixie. I used to hate that word. And then when I ended up in Rocky and my character's name was Trixie, it worked out. I took back the night.
For a while, I used to take the $9 Greyhound to Chicago. It was an hour away from Milwaukee. I'd do the drag shows on the weekend with Kimchi and Shea Couleé and Pearl. Then, I got RuPaul's Drag Race. I always say Drag Race takes your life from black and white to IMAX. After that, two years ago, I moved to LA to keep up that momentum.
There's so much healing power in laughter.Now, I find that the more true I am to myself, in my comedy, in my music, the more I can just be more real with how I feel and turn that into laughter. There's so much healing power in laughter. In my comedy show, I address suicide, depression, breakups, STDs - there's really not a show that paints me as a winner. But people tell me all the time, they're like, "Oh my God, I've been having some really dark moments, I just needed to laugh." Of course, I don't create content because I want to be a social justice warrior. But if it affects people in a positive way, I'm like, "Oh my God, I'm doing something important with my life."
I used to be kind of ashamed of dragging. It used to be something I knew I was good at, but I was mad that I was good at it. I was like, "Ugh, why can't I be good at long division or something a little more normal?" It's changed for me over the years because a lot of people think of drag as "my character," "my other persona." For me, I never felt that way. The more I realize it's just me dressed up, I don't have an issue with it. It's like my favorite thing about what I can do. And, this is kind of morbid, but I'm probably never going to get the chance to have kids, and when I die, I will have left something behind. I will have impacted this art form as a whole forever. So I have done something with my life. I have a legacy. And that's something I don't have to be ashamed of anymore.
As told to Ryan Roschke
You Can't Beat This Coca-Cola Commercial Featuring Selena in All Her Glory
Do you remember Selena's Coca-Cola ad? Well, if you don't, we are here to refresh your memory. The fine people of the internet unearthed this video after the controversy Pepsi stirred with its commercial starring Kendall Jenner as a way to show Pepsi how it should be done.
In this magical creation, Selena is singing a catchy tune with lyrics like, "Can't beat it, the rhythm, the one that you get from Coca-Cola Classic." We can't beat watching Selena not only sing in English and Spanish but also show off her dancing skills. Watch the video above and get ready to be in awe.
Bibliophiles Only: 19 Tiny Tattoos Inspired by Books
For book-lovers, the stories we read are very important. If you want to have a permanent reminder of a book, quote, character, or plot of a story, the best way to do it is with a tattoo. If you don't want a big commitment, you can choose something small! We've found some incredible ink on real people that will undoubtedly inspire you to get your own. Check them out now and happy reading!
Apple's HomePod Is Like the Amazon Echo but Sleeker
Though it was rumored for months, Apple finally announced the HomePod at this year's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). The HomePod is Apple's answer to the Amazon Echo and Google Home. It will have:
- Exceptional sound quality: The HomePod will come with "spatial awareness." This will allow the device to "detect" the space it's in and adjust the volume and sound to work in that environment.
- Six microphones to hear your commands: Just say "Hey Siri" and ask it to tell you the weather and sports scores and, of course, play your music.
- Two colors: The device will come in white and space gray.
The HomePod will cost $349 and ship out in December. See photos of it ahead.
You Can't Beat This Coca-Cola Commercial Featuring Selena in All Her Glory
Do you remember Selena's Coca-Cola ad? Well, if you don't, we are here to refresh your memory. The fine people of the internet unearthed this video after the controversy Pepsi stirred with its commercial starring Kendall Jenner as a way to show Pepsi how it should be done.
In this magical creation, Selena is singing a catchy tune with lyrics like, "Can't beat it, the rhythm, the one that you get from Coca-Cola Classic." We can't beat watching Selena not only sing in English and Spanish but also show off her dancing skills. Watch the video above and get ready to be in awe.
Limited-Edition Chocolate Pop Rocks Exist, and You Need to Try Them
I was perusing the candy aisle at my local candy store, because why not? I mean, it's part of my job to be the full-on guinea pig taste-tester for new products, so I'm always on the lookout for things I've never seen before. These "limited edition" chocolate Pop Rocks totally caught my attention. At first, I thought they were chocolate-flavored Pop Rocks, but upon careful inspection, they are actually just milk-chocolate-covered Pop Rocks. Still intrigued, I ripped open the pack and dumped a handful of what I can only describe as the cutest tiny animal poops into my hand. My friend made a joke about calling them "Poop Rocks," which made me chuckle just a bit, and then I tossed them in my mouth.
My friend made a joke about calling them "Poop Rocks," which made me chuckle just a bit, and then I tossed them in my mouth.
Now we had quite the debate over them, with some people in the group thinking that they lacked the firepower potency of the OG rocks, but my friend and I really enjoyed them. Sure, they didn't snap, crackle, and pop on contact, but the slowly melting milk chocolate made for a quite enjoyable experience. It was smooth at first, and then the pops almost caught me by surprise! It was refreshing and fun.
Once I got home, I dug into the origin story of these little gems. As far as I can tell via internet digging, they've been around since 2006. Limited edition going on year 11 now? The website leaves zero clues as to when they were launched and if they ever have a chance of becoming a regular flavor vs. living in their ambiguous state. All I have to say is I'm so glad that I found them. If you do see them in your local candy aisle, do yourself a favor and give them a try.
Stop Trying to Make Carrot Lattes Happen
Look, we get it. Drinking the same old latte can get a little boring, so it's fun to change up your coffee order sometimes. But one coffee shop in Australia has taken the idea way too far by making "carrot-cinos," aka steamed milk and espresso served IN A CARROT. The coffee shop responsible for this impossibly hipster idea, Locals Corner in Seaforth, shared a photo of the carrot concoction on June 3, writing, "How about carrot latte 😉."
Before you get too heated, know that the carrot latte is not an official menu item; the baristas are simply having fun. They even experimented with a latte inside of a green apple. "We just like doing different things; we've being doing a few of these, one with an apple, one with an avocado, this week was a carrot and next week we will do something different," the cafe owner told Daily Mail Australia.
But knowing how our society works when it comes to "secret menus" related to coffee (hint, hint, Mermaid Frappuccinos), I would not be surprised if people attempted to order this based on the fact that they know the barista can make it. The putting-lattes-in-produce trend started when avocado lattes became a thing, which also originated in Australia (what's the deal, Australia?!). And in our opinion, it has got to stop. It's an insult to fresh carrots everywhere to cut off their tops and fill them with steaming-hot milk and espresso. They deserve to be dipped in hummus or served in crudités cups for party guests to enjoy. Let's put our carrots in salads and keep our lattes in cups and call it a day, shall we?
How to Make Sure Your Day Job Doesn't Extinguish Your Creative Soul
If you're a creative person who also holds down a noncreative or "businessy" job, then you're familiar with the constant balancing act required to get your (paid) work done while keeping the artistic fires stoked. You only have so much mental and spiritual energy to use up each day, so how do you keep a "regular" job while still honoring your creative soul?
For Shannon DeJong, integrating her business self as CEO of a branding agency with her artistic self as an actress/performer is all part of the journey, and the new podcast ArtistCEO is devoted to capturing her journey in the hopes of answering the question: can business and art live in harmony?
When asked about her best tips for anyone struggling to balance their professional working lives with their artistic passions, DeJong identified four main ways to blend these different aspects of ourselves. Check out the ArtistCEO podcast, and keep reading for DeJong's advice.
1. Find a Teacher, Mentor, or Coach You Love Outside of Work
"Have you been putting your creativity on the back burner? If you want to make progress both professionally and in your artsy or creative interests, consider finding or hiring a teacher, mentor, or coach that really inspires you. As my business grew, I knew I was not giving adequate time to my acting. I knew there would never be a 'good time' - I just had to make the time. I started the search and found a teacher, Tom Bentley-Fischer, who I felt challenged and invigorated by. He provided inspiration, lessons, and accountability. I committed to a weekly class on Saturday mornings and eventually he mentored me in a production of a two-person play that I was able to perform while simultaneously running my brand agency. (Not gonna lie though, it was pretty exhausting!)"
2. Create Systems
"Creating systems in my business largely means assigning roles and responsibilities to my team, mentoring them where there are gaps in knowledge, and then stepping away to see what they can do on their own. In order to be able to take on any larger artistic project outside of day-to-day work, I had to be confident that my team knew exactly what to do if I wasn't available. To really dive into the process of deep creation and artistic expression, you don't just need time, but also mental space and security. If you are an individual and not delegating to a team, this might mean streamlining other systems in your life - like food, laundry, cleaning your house, child care, your exercise routine. Can you find ways to make all the day-to-day decisions easier or done for you? Routine is a tool. Create one that works for you and stick to it. Find a couple ways you can give yourself more mental space and physical time so you can let loose in your creative life."
3. Use Your Creativity in Personal Branding Projects
"Even if you don't run your own business, you can still consider your personal brand. What do you uniquely bring to the table and how can you tell that story? Developing a project outside of work that uses your artistic skills and creativity but also becomes a career asset is a smart way to integrate. Starting a blog, a video show, a podcast, or other project might be the creative outlet you need to feel like your whole self is being nourished. Pro tip: keep colored markers at your desk and doodle while on conference calls."
4. Make a List of How Your Skills Intersect
"One thing I didn't fully realize before claiming my identity as a creative person and a CEO is how much my two worlds influenced one another. My artistic skills allow me to enter the unknown with my clients and use the creative process to emerge with insights and brand positioning that can only come out of the experience. Trusting the process like an artist is a huge strength in my business. Conversely, my professional side influences my artist self. Theater managers and collaborators appreciate how organized I am, strategically thinking ahead to marketing and production value, which is not something all artists are comfortable with. Seeing where your skills overlap, intersect, and shore up one another can help you feel like a more well-rounded being as you go from arena to arena. You don't need to leave your creativity (or soul!) at the door when you come to the office - and you don't need to lose all structure and 'left-brain thinking' when you are being creative."
77 Calming Songs For Anyone Who Hates Flying
Trust us, we know that air travel can be a pretty daunting undertaking. It can be easy to psych yourself out and inundate your mind with unnecessary stress (especially after having to endure the pre-takeoff madness of rushing to the airport and navigating TSA!). Since it really does you no good at all to panic midflight, we've come up with the ultimate playlist to mellow you out, temper your worries, and calm you down. Get to listening, and feel secure in knowing that you'll be arriving at your destination feeling the utmost chill.
And while you're at it, don't forget these travel products that'll make your next adventure that much easier.
- "All of the Stars," Ed Sheeran
- "America," Simon & Garfunkel
- "Be OK," Ingrid Michaelson
- "Big Jet Plane," Angus & Julia Stone
- "Bloodstream," Stateless
- "Breathe Me," Sia
- "Brother Sparrow," Agnes Obel
- "Ceilings," Local Natives
- "Chocolate," The 1975
- "Coffee," Copeland
- "Cola," Toro Y Moi
- "Come Back When You Can," Barcelona
- "Come Pick Me Up," Ryan Adams
- "Comes and Goes (in Waves)," Greg Laswell
- "Crazy," Daniela Andrade
- "Dawn," Marianelli, Jean-Yves Thibaudet
- "Don't Worry Be Happy," Bobby McFerrin
- "Fade Into You," Mazzy Star
- "Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop," Daniela Andrade
- "Golden Love," Midnight Youth
- "Hard Times," Eastmountainsouth
- "Harvest Moon," Neil Young
- "Hero," Family of the Year
- "Home," Phillip Phillips
- "I Will Follow You Into the Dark," Death Cab For Cutie
- "Keep Your Head Up," Ben Howard
- "Kiss Me," Ed Sheeran
- "Landslide," Fleetwood Mac
- "Latch," Daniela Andrade
- "Lego House," Ed Sheeran, Jake Gosling
- "Long Ride Home," Patty Griffin
- "Loro," Pinback
- "Medicine," The 1975
- "My Father's Gun," Elton John
- "No One's Aware," Jack Savoretti
- "Oh! Sweet Nuthin'," The Velvet Underground
- "Old Pine," Ben Howard
- "Outro," M83
- "Paper Doll," John Mayer
- "Playground Love," Air
- "Put Your Records On," Corinne Bailey Rae
- "Reasons to Love You," Meiko
- "Release Your Problems," Chet Faker
- "Rise - Epic Music," John Dreamer
- "Safe and Sound," Taylor Swift, The Civil Wars
- "Same in Any Language," I Nine
- "Sheets," Damien Jurado
- "Skinny Love," Birdy
- "Square One," Tom Petty
- "Starálfur," Sigur Rós
- "Stay Alive," José González
- "Stop This Train," John Mayer
- "Sweet Disposition," The Temper Trap
- "Sympathy," The Goo Goo Dolls
- "Tee Shirt," Birdy
- "That's the Way," Led Zeppelin
- "The Day I Lost My Voice (the Suitcase Song)," Copeland
- "The Family Tree," Unconditional Arms
- "The Heart of Life," John Mayer
- "The Moon Song (From Her)," L'Orchestra Cinematique
- "They Move on Tracks of Never-Ending Light," This Will Destroy You
- "Think of Me," Rosi Golan
- "Think of You," A Fine Frenzy
- "Thinkin Bout You," Daniela Andrade
- "Three Little Birds," Bob Marley & The Wailers
- "Time After Time," Chet Baker
- "Tiny Dancer," Elton John
- "Tornado," Jónsi
- "Trip," Vacationer
- "Use Somebody," Kina Grannis
- "Wade in Your Water," Common Kings
- "Walking," The Dodos
- "Warm Whispers," Missy Higgins
- "What the Water Gave Me," Florence + The Machine
- "When the Stars Go Blue," Ryan Adams
- "You Take My Troubles Away," Rachael Yamagata, Dan Wilson
- "Youth," Daughter
Just remember: you'll need to download the free Spotify software or app to listen to our playlists!
Stop Trying to Make Carrot Lattes Happen
Look, we get it. Drinking the same old latte can get a little boring, so it's fun to change up your coffee order sometimes. But one coffee shop in Australia has taken the idea way too far by making "carrot-cinos," aka steamed milk and espresso served IN A CARROT. The coffee shop responsible for this impossibly hipster idea, Locals Corner in Seaforth, shared a photo of the carrot concoction on June 3, writing, "How about carrot latte 😉."
Before you get too heated, know that the carrot latte is not an official menu item; the baristas are simply having fun. They even experimented with a latte inside of a green apple. "We just like doing different things; we've being doing a few of these, one with an apple, one with an avocado, this week was a carrot and next week we will do something different," the cafe owner told Daily Mail Australia.
But knowing how our society works when it comes to "secret menus" related to coffee (hint, hint, Mermaid Frappuccinos), I would not be surprised if people attempted to order this based on the fact that they know the barista can make it. The putting-lattes-in-produce trend started when avocado lattes became a thing, which also originated in Australia (what's the deal, Australia?!). And in our opinion, it has got to stop. It's an insult to fresh carrots everywhere to cut off their tops and fill them with steaming-hot milk and espresso. They deserve to be dipped in hummus or served in crudités cups for party guests to enjoy. Let's put our carrots in salads and keep our lattes in cups and call it a day, shall we?
Grey's Anatomy Fans, Shondaland's New Fall Show Might Be Your Next Obsession
If you're all about Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, then you need to have For the People on your radar. The new TV show, which is set to join ABC's Fall lineup, has some familiar faces behind the scenes. It was created by Shondaland's Paul William Davies, and both Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers serve as executive producers. The cast includes Britne Oldford, Ben Rappaport, Lyndon Smith, Hope Davis, Susannah Flood, Wesam Keesh, Regé-Jean Page, Ben Shenkman, and Anna Deavere Smith.
The show is set in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, and it follows a group of brand-new lawyers reminiscent of those eager, wide-eyed interns from season one of Grey's Anatomy. If the three-minute trailer is any indication, For the People has quite a bit in common with Shonda's hit shows: a high-pressure setting, workplace romances, and some swoon-worthy eye candy. Bless you, Shonda.
Hack It! 2 Cheap and Easy Ways to Make Chicken Broth
I remember learning to make stock in culinary school and thinking, "Eff that! I will literally never do this again." Eight years later, I haven't looked back. I am not about roasting bones from the butcher nor extracting all the flavor of meat only to discard it. This cook is on a budget. I'm not embarrassed to take shortcuts in the kitchen to save some moola and extra minutes, especially when it comes to making chicken broth. Since that day forward, I always make my chicken stock one of two ways, both of which take minimal effort and time:
- Sear raw chicken in a stockpot, cover it in water, and poach for about 15 minutes until cooked through. This is great for from-scratch chicken noodle soup. You get a flavorful, homemade stock plus fully cooked meat to shred and stir back into the soup.
- Alternatively, if you have just eaten a rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken, don't throw out the bones! Fill a stockpot with the bones, leftover skin, etc. and cover it with cold water. Bring to a boil on medium-high and cook for at least 20 minutes and upward of 40 minutes (there's no real harm in "forgetting" it on the stove for a few minutes more). Strain out the bones, and use the velvety, collagen-rich stock in soups, in pastas, or when cooking grains and beans.
Articles
