Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
vendredi 9 juin 2017
12 Latinx Swimsuit Brands That Will Make You Excited For Summer
Latin America is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in world. That's why we're not surprised to see Latinas drawing inspiration from these gorgeous coasts to create the perfect swimsuit lines.
These 12 brands bring an authentic Latin essence, creating pieces any woman would want to wear. From bold and vibrant prints to frilly and flattering styles, there's seriously something for every taste. Don't forget to pack one or two - OK maybe a few - for your next vacation! Keep reading to learn more about your new favorite swimwear brands, and then check out some more Latin-created fashion lines and bridal ateliers.
Breaking Down What Happens to LeAnn Harvey on House of Cards
Spoilers for the fifth season of House of Cards are below.
Shocking or unexpected deaths are just one of the unsettling things that makes House of Cards such a roller coaster ride. If someone becomes too unpredictable or too much of a liability to Frank and Claire Underwood's master plan, they probably won't stick around for long. House of Cards also isn't shy about showing those deaths - at least, most of the time.
At the end of season five, we're left questioning the fate of LeAnn Harvey (Neve Campbell), the Underwoods' former campaign manager. LeAnn is initially pushed out of her role in the administration because of her connection to Aidan Macallan, the data scientist who helps the Underwoods illegally influence the election. However, Macallan (before his own untimely death) sends LeAnn password-protected files of evidence, giving her a degree of leverage.
In the season's final episode, LeAnn decides to give access to the files to Jane Davis but wants to be made Claire's new chief of staff in exchange. Davis agrees, but then when Mark Usher forces LeAnn out of the new position only a day or so later, Davis doesn't come to her defense. When Davis tells Frank that the files from Macallan are now in Claire's possession, Frank says ominously that "LeAnn's job is done."
LeAnn soon realizes that her surrender of the files combined with losing the job she was promised points to the possibility that she's being set up to be taken out. As she drives to Doug's home at night, obviously shaken, another car drives up close behind her and flashes its lights. Before we see anything more happen, the camera cuts away to Frank watching LeAnn through her phone. He looks right at the audience and says, "Sometimes you don't have to watch the whole movie to know how it ends."
The next time we see LeAnn's car, it's gone off the road and overturned. Clearly LeAnn was right to be suspicious, and Frank arranged for her to be eliminated. However, her body is never shown even though the crash looks very severe, which raises a red flag. Maybe we're simply supposed to assume she didn't make it - but strongly suggesting a character dies in a season finale and then revealing they survived in the following season isn't exactly unheard of in television dramas. This trick is even used in the second season of House of Cards: the finale shows Doug's apparently dead body, and then the third season premiere reveals he's alive.
It hasn't been confirmed by showrunners or actress Neve Campbell whether LeAnn is actually dead either, adding to the mystery. We'll have to wait and see if (a potential) season six answers the question once and for all . . .
These Are the Iconic Summer Jams That Defined the Last 25 Years
Nothing says Summer like laying by the pool, soaking in the sun, and listening to the hottest, catchiest new song. While the biggest Summer hit of 2017 has yet to be crowned, iHeartRadio recently figured out which jams have been number one on the radio each Summer over the last 25 years (which you can watch above). From Brandy and Monica's "That Boy Is Mine" to Sean Paul's "Temperature," we've rounded them all up below so you can have your own nostalgic walk down memory lane. See if your favorite songs from 1992 until now made the list!
6 Reasons Why Summer Weddings Are More Fun
It's no surprise that some of the most popular months to tie the knot are June, August, and September. Summer automatically screams fun if you ask us, and with wedding season most prominent around this time of year, you can't go wrong - as long as you do it right. If you're debating whether you should have a Summer wedding, let us convince you that it's the season that can take your party to the next level. See six reasons why ahead.
The Hidden Benefit to Finding Out the Sex of My Baby
"Are you going to find out the sex?" Once people learn you're pregnant, that's often the next question you get. For me it was an easy one: "Yes. And in fact, I already know. It's a girl."
By the time I started telling people I was pregnant around 12 weeks, I knew my baby's sex. My husband and I had decided to opt for the new genetic blood test called NIPT, which you can take as early as 10 weeks. We liked it for various reasons, including the high-accuracy for assessing Down syndrome risk and the fact that it would tell you the baby's sex long before the traditional ultrasound done between 16 and 20 weeks. It cost us about $400 out of pocket, but for me the peace of mine was worth it - as was knowing the sex of the fetus growing inside of me.
It was a relief to take a test that didn't have a good or bad result.
Yes, finding out the sex of my baby was really important to me - but not because I wanted to buy a bunch of gender-specific clothes, hold an elaborate gender reveal party, or paint a nursery blue or pink. (For what it's worth, my second bedroom is mint green and will stay that way.) Rather, it was a way for me to break up early pregnancy. I found the first trimester to be a pretty tough slog of nausea, lifestyle changes, and anxiety about genetic testing or the risk of miscarriage. It was a relief to take a test that didn't have a good or bad result. It felt like a way to treat myself and get a little excitement before the birth. Pregnancy is already such a waiting game, so I didn't see the point of hoarding all the discovery about my future baby until the day of the birth.
Learning the sex also helped me "bond" with my baby. Pregnancy seems almost theoretical early on: there's no bump, just symptoms. The whole thing felt much more real once I started referring to my future baby as "her" instead of "it." Carista Luminare is an expert in prenatal bonding and author of Parenting Begins Before Conception: A Guide to Preparing Body, Mind, and Spirit for You and Your Future Child. Along with journaling, talking to your belly regularly, or singing to the baby, she agrees that finding out the sex can build a connection and affection. It also offers a chance to settle on a name early. "For many, putting a personal name to the baby makes it less abstract," Luminare says. Of course, she also stresses that there are no rules about bonding, just "whatever opens the heart of each parent." For me, that was finding out the sex.
It gave us a chance to talk through our own gender biases.
The choice to find out the sex helped my husband and me connect, too, which I wasn't expecting. Right before we got the call with the results, "My Girl" came on at the restaurant we were at. I told him it was a sign, and five minutes later we found out we were having girl. As silly as it was, I know we'll never forget that moment. The news also encouraged us to start narrowing down baby names, a fun pregnancy project. And it gave us a chance to talk through our own gender biases and plans. We talked about how to help our future daughter be driven by her interests, not society's confining gender norms. We promised to share my husband's passion for technology and coding with her, while I would be sure to expose her to my love of sports. And if she loved princesses or anything overtly girlie, we'd embrace it, since femininity and feminism are not mutually exclusive.
If you believe men and women are equal, finding out the sex of your future baby may seem arbitrary. But even as a feminist, I discovered it did matter. I also realized that saving it until the end as some big surprise might have made the sex a bigger deal than I wanted it to be. Finding out as soon as I could came with many benefits for me, including bonding with the baby and my husband. And it didn't require that I fall into a sea of pink.
Are You Eating Too Much Protein?
There's no absolute answer for how many grams of protein a woman should get each day - it depends on your weight, your activity level, and whether or not you're pregnant. But with a little elementary-school math, there's an easy way to calculate the number of protein grams that's right for you.
Take your weight in pounds and divide it by 2.2 to figure out your weight in kilograms. Then multiply that number by 0.8 (not very active), 1.3 (active or pregnant), or 1.8 (extremely active), depending on how much exercise you get.
As a general guideline, the CDC's average requirement of protein for women ages 19 to 70 is 46 grams per day. But, as you can see from this chart, you'll need to increase that if you're expecting or training for a marathon.
Check out the chart below to see how much protein you should be eating each day. If you don't see your weight, just use the formula above to calculate your daily protein.
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Protein per day (not very active) | Protein per day (active or pregnant) | Protein per day (extremely active) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | 45.5 | 36.4 g | 59.2 g | 81.9 g |
| 105 | 47.7 | 38.2 g | 62 g | 85.9 g |
| 110 | 50 | 40 g | 65 g | 90 g |
| 115 | 52.3 | 41.8 g | 68 g | 94.1 g |
| 120 | 54.5 | 43.6 g | 70.9 g | 98.1 g |
| 125 | 56.8 | 45.4 g | 73.8 g | 102.2 g |
| 130 | 59.1 | 47.3 g | 76.8 g | 106.4 g |
| 135 | 61.4 | 49.1 g | 79.8 g | 110.5 g |
| 140 | 63.6 | 50.9 g | 82.7 g | 114.5 g |
| 145 | 65.9 | 52.7 g | 85.7 g | 118.6 g |
| 150 | 68.2 | 54.7 g | 88.7 g | 122.8 g |
| 155 | 70.5 | 56.4 g | 91.7 g | 126.9 g |
| 160 | 72.7 | 58.2 g | 94.5 g | 130.8 g |
| 165 | 75 | 60 g | 97.5 g | 135 g |
Based on the numbers above, do you already get enough protein per day?
Are You Eating Too Much Protein?
There's no absolute answer for how many grams of protein a woman should get each day - it depends on your weight, your activity level, and whether or not you're pregnant. But with a little elementary-school math, there's an easy way to calculate the number of protein grams that's right for you.
Take your weight in pounds and divide it by 2.2 to figure out your weight in kilograms. Then multiply that number by 0.8 (not very active), 1.3 (active or pregnant), or 1.8 (extremely active), depending on how much exercise you get.
As a general guideline, the CDC's average requirement of protein for women ages 19 to 70 is 46 grams per day. But, as you can see from this chart, you'll need to increase that if you're expecting or training for a marathon.
Check out the chart below to see how much protein you should be eating each day. If you don't see your weight, just use the formula above to calculate your daily protein.
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Protein per day (not very active) | Protein per day (active or pregnant) | Protein per day (extremely active) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | 45.5 | 36.4 g | 59.2 g | 81.9 g |
| 105 | 47.7 | 38.2 g | 62 g | 85.9 g |
| 110 | 50 | 40 g | 65 g | 90 g |
| 115 | 52.3 | 41.8 g | 68 g | 94.1 g |
| 120 | 54.5 | 43.6 g | 70.9 g | 98.1 g |
| 125 | 56.8 | 45.4 g | 73.8 g | 102.2 g |
| 130 | 59.1 | 47.3 g | 76.8 g | 106.4 g |
| 135 | 61.4 | 49.1 g | 79.8 g | 110.5 g |
| 140 | 63.6 | 50.9 g | 82.7 g | 114.5 g |
| 145 | 65.9 | 52.7 g | 85.7 g | 118.6 g |
| 150 | 68.2 | 54.7 g | 88.7 g | 122.8 g |
| 155 | 70.5 | 56.4 g | 91.7 g | 126.9 g |
| 160 | 72.7 | 58.2 g | 94.5 g | 130.8 g |
| 165 | 75 | 60 g | 97.5 g | 135 g |
Based on the numbers above, do you already get enough protein per day?
50 Ways to Feel Better About Yourself Right Now
When you're feeling down, turn things around with a few tips and tricks for thinking about things differently. No need to wallow when there are quick and simple ways to feel better about yourself. Feeling down can be triggered by a bad hair day, not being able to get over a mistake, or waking up 10 minutes late. Stop beating yourself up and try one of these suggestions:
- Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and visualize things working out.
- Give yourself a quick pep talk.
- Get in front of a mirror or your phone and smile. Take a minute to acknowledge your looks and appreciate your favorite part of your face. Selfies are a great form of self-care.
- Write down five things that you are proud of and stick the list in your wallet to pull out to remind yourself that you're awesome.
- Call a friend and tell them you're feeling down. Sometimes just admitting you're not feeling great makes things better instantly.
- Watch a silly pet video.
- Give yourself an at-home manicure with a color you regularly wouldn't wear and flaunt it.
- Make a coffee date with a good friend and ask them what they like about you.
- Take a deep breath, acknowledge things aren't going your way, and move on with your day.
- Stop with negative self-talk. Switch the thoughts of negativity to positive mantras, such as "I am strong!"
- Write out a list of goals that are realistic and carry them with you.
- Put down your phone and pay attention to what's going on around you. Just spending a few moments appreciating nature, unique faces, and the hustle and bustle gets your mind off things.
- Zen out and meditate. Close your eyes, take 10 deep breaths, and imagine something relaxing.
- Stop comparing yourself to others! By trying to be similar to someone else, you're forgetting what's awesome about you.
- You only get one body, so take care of it. Eat healthy, get some exercise, and you'll feel better in no time. And working out is a distraction from being in the dumps.
- Arrange a personal shopping session at your favorite store and enjoy letting someone else dress you. There's no pressure to purchase any of the clothes, unless you want to treat yourself to something new.
- Give yourself an at-home facial.
- Go ahead and cry it out.
- Write down what you're thankful for.
- Take a walk by yourself. Stay in the moment, breathe in and out, and slow down.
- Invite your friends over for a night in.
- Sing like no one can hear you. Really, it will change your mood in no time.
- Talk to the person standing next to you in line. There's nothing to be afraid of - just make a bit of small talk, which is a fun way to connect with strangers and enjoy a laugh.
- Clean your desk and start fresh.
- Go through your closet and make a collection of clothes to donate. You'll feel better knowing your clothes will go to someone in need.
- Give flowers to a good friend. The simple act of giving always lifts spirits.
- Pet a dog or cat, which instantly calms nerves and lowers blood pressure.
- Relive a favorite memory and hold on to the feeling.
- Give someone a hug.
- Smile big at a stranger. Once you start, it's hard to stop.
- Put your shoulders back and act like you're walking the red carpet. Even though you're faking it, you'll help elevate your mood.
- Do something different and change up your routine.
- Grab your journal and write about what's bothering you.
- Smell the flowers - or treat yourself to a stunning bouquet.
- Stop thinking about that person you're crushing on and just ask them out!
- Turn that frown upside down. Literally. Push negative thoughts to the side and think about something positive.
- Plan the ultimate vacation, focusing on everything you want to do. Write down all the awesome places you'd like to explore and keep it handy when you need to focus on a better place.
- Create a power board filled with pictures of yourself with loved ones along with inspirational words and images.
- Forgive yourself. That's right. Stop giving yourself a hard time over things you can't control and give yourself a break.
- Stop with should-have-could-have scenarios. You can't change the past, but you can put your best foot forward.
- Indulge in something you love and remind yourself why it's one of your favorite things.
- Love yourself and practice kindness.
- Give up trying to be perfect and just be you.
- Reflect on your accomplishments and acknowledge that you are pretty awesome.
- Accomplish something on your to-do list.
- Pick up a hobby.
- Check out Positively Positive.
- Remember it's OK to say "no" when you're feeling overwhelmed.
- Challenge yourself to try something new.
- Acknowledge your feelings. It's totally natural to feel insecure, and admitting it is courageous.
In Our Wildest Dreams, This Disney Popcorn Can Be Found at the End of Every Rainbow
A snack staple throughout Disney's many theme parks is the Main Street Popcorn. Though the onsite confectionaries have added new popcorn flavors - including churro, truffle, and maple bacon - one of the fan favorites continues to be the classic confetti flavor.
What does confetti popcorn taste like? Magic. Kidding - the flavor actually varies depending on the kernel color! Flavors include orange, grape, lime, cherry, and blue raspberry. That variety is likely what makes it such a popular park snack! Not only that, but the colors really pop, making for that perfect food-blogger-approved Instagram shot. Look ahead to see what we're talking about.
Please Don't Put Ground WASP NESTS In Your Vagina - EVER
Our friends at YourTango share this dangerous and frightening new trend with us.
Apparently some women are in hopes of tightening their vagina.
Historically speaking: Pain is beauty.
As a modern woman speaking, understand me when I say, there's certain stuff that just doesn't need to be beautified (read: retouched) or put through the pain. And one of those things is definitely your vagina.
Frankly, I'm displeased by the design of genitalia as a whole both vaginas and penises alike. Some women find their vaginas to be beautiful as is, and I'm just not one of them. Even with that said, there are very few things I'm willing to put my vagina through cosmetically when I've just grown to tolerate the good and the bad that comes with the way that my vagina is in its natural state.
I stand by my unwillingness to cosmetically alter my vagina, but some women are seeking out truly bizarre measures in order to tighten their vaginas. And these methods are usually by no means healthy for your genitals, AT ALL.
I mean really, first it was tightening wands and now it's ground wasp nests?
What's really going on here? Whatever happened to good ol' fashioned Kegel exercises?
Related: Please Don't Stick This "Tightening Wand" In Your Vagina. Thanks.
These nests are also known as "Oak Gall" are the product of wasps laying eggs inside a tree's leaf buds. This allows larvae to develop inside, and before they can release their devil-spawn into the world, they are being taken out, ground up, and yes, they're being sold online through retailers such as Etsy, according to the Independent.
Sure, a wasp nest is all-natural, especially in comparison to a chemically-charged tightening wand, but what about all the other scary things that might be happening when you put ground up wasps on your VAGINA?!
Related: The BRUTAL Truth About Your Loose Vagina
I've been stung by a bee on the inside of my lip before, and please believe me when I say that's not something you want to experience on your vagina lips ... or worse. (Granted, I'm not sure if that's a real concern or just a figment of my imagination.)
Canadian gynecologist Jen Gunter, who wrote about the insanity on her blog, made it clear that this practice "has long-term implications."
Related: I Had Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgery To Get My "Teenage" Vagina Back
Despite being doubtful that many women would actually purchase this - and this particular Etsy shop removed the product from their page - she continued with her warning, since it's still selling in other retailers online as a "natural" method of tightening your vagina.
Related: The Secret To Better Sex? Vaginal Weight Lifting With A Jade Egg!
So, scientifically speaking, you will not only not tighten your vagina, but you will also dry it out, increase chances of tearing, increase the risk of developing HIV, and destroy all the good bacteria that keeps your vagina operating at 100 percent and chases out nasty things like UTIs and yeast infections.
Hopefully there aren't many women willing to succumb to these lengths for a tighter vagina, and the people who are trying to sell these snake oil fixes learn quickly enough that it's just a big no-no.
You can never be too safe, especially when it comes to your genitals! This product hasn't been scientifically researched in the slightest, which makes it nothing more than a home remedy for insecurity and idiocy. Please do not fall for this!
More from our friends at YourTango:
- Guys Review 8 Different Types Of Vaginas (Yes, Really)
- 7 Myth-Busting Facts You Probably Didn't Know About The Hymen
- Your Guide To Clit Piercing (With Photos Of The 4 Best Options)
- 10 WTF Myths About Your Labia That Couldn't Be More Untrue
- 3 Ways To Touch Yourself For Body-Shaking Orgasms Every Single Time
How to Pack For Multiple Trips in 1 Carry-On Suitcase
The thought of packing for one trip can be intimidating. Two trips? Overwhelming. And to fit both in a carry-on? Impossible.
Except, it's not. Read on for my top four helpful tips and tricks when traveling to multiple destinations. Yes, with a carry-on.
Please Don't Put Ground WASP NESTS In Your Vagina - EVER
Our friends at YourTango share this dangerous and frightening new trend with us.
Apparently some women are in hopes of tightening their vagina.
Historically speaking: Pain is beauty.
As a modern woman speaking, understand me when I say, there's certain stuff that just doesn't need to be beautified (read: retouched) or put through the pain. And one of those things is definitely your vagina.
Frankly, I'm displeased by the design of genitalia as a whole both vaginas and penises alike. Some women find their vaginas to be beautiful as is, and I'm just not one of them. Even with that said, there are very few things I'm willing to put my vagina through cosmetically when I've just grown to tolerate the good and the bad that comes with the way that my vagina is in its natural state.
I stand by my unwillingness to cosmetically alter my vagina, but some women are seeking out truly bizarre measures in order to tighten their vaginas. And these methods are usually by no means healthy for your genitals, AT ALL.
I mean really, first it was tightening wands and now it's ground wasp nests?
What's really going on here? Whatever happened to good ol' fashioned Kegel exercises?
Related: Please Don't Stick This "Tightening Wand" In Your Vagina. Thanks.
These nests are also known as "Oak Gall" are the product of wasps laying eggs inside a tree's leaf buds. This allows larvae to develop inside, and before they can release their devil-spawn into the world, they are being taken out, ground up, and yes, they're being sold online through retailers such as Etsy, according to the Independent.
Sure, a wasp nest is all-natural, especially in comparison to a chemically-charged tightening wand, but what about all the other scary things that might be happening when you put ground up wasps on your VAGINA?!
Related: The BRUTAL Truth About Your Loose Vagina
I've been stung by a bee on the inside of my lip before, and please believe me when I say that's not something you want to experience on your vagina lips ... or worse. (Granted, I'm not sure if that's a real concern or just a figment of my imagination.)
Canadian gynecologist Jen Gunter, who wrote about the insanity on her blog, made it clear that this practice "has long-term implications."
Related: I Had Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgery To Get My "Teenage" Vagina Back
Despite being doubtful that many women would actually purchase this - and this particular Etsy shop removed the product from their page - she continued with her warning, since it's still selling in other retailers online as a "natural" method of tightening your vagina.
Related: The Secret To Better Sex? Vaginal Weight Lifting With A Jade Egg!
So, scientifically speaking, you will not only not tighten your vagina, but you will also dry it out, increase chances of tearing, increase the risk of developing HIV, and destroy all the good bacteria that keeps your vagina operating at 100 percent and chases out nasty things like UTIs and yeast infections.
Hopefully there aren't many women willing to succumb to these lengths for a tighter vagina, and the people who are trying to sell these snake oil fixes learn quickly enough that it's just a big no-no.
You can never be too safe, especially when it comes to your genitals! This product hasn't been scientifically researched in the slightest, which makes it nothing more than a home remedy for insecurity and idiocy. Please do not fall for this!
More from our friends at YourTango:
- Guys Review 8 Different Types Of Vaginas (Yes, Really)
- 7 Myth-Busting Facts You Probably Didn't Know About The Hymen
- Your Guide To Clit Piercing (With Photos Of The 4 Best Options)
- 10 WTF Myths About Your Labia That Couldn't Be More Untrue
- 3 Ways To Touch Yourself For Body-Shaking Orgasms Every Single Time
In Our Wildest Dreams, This Disney Popcorn Can Be Found at the End of Every Rainbow
A snack staple throughout Disney's many theme parks is the Main Street Popcorn. Though the onsite confectionaries have added new popcorn flavors - including churro, truffle, and maple bacon - one of the fan favorites continues to be the classic confetti flavor.
What does confetti popcorn taste like? Magic. Kidding - the flavor actually varies depending on the kernel color! Flavors include orange, grape, lime, cherry, and blue raspberry. That variety is likely what makes it such a popular park snack! Not only that, but the colors really pop, making for that perfect food-blogger-approved Instagram shot. Look ahead to see what we're talking about.
Amazon Prime Is Your Answer to a Clutter-Free Home
Aside from the sheer drudgery of having to actually organize, shopping for the tools you need is reason enough to procrastinate. We get it, which is why we've taken one for the team by doing the research for you. Behold, a comprehensively kickass list of Amazon Prime home organization products that combine the highest ratings, bestseller track records, and lowest prices. Shop from your sofa (or desk, we won't tell) and become the person your vision board intended you to be: efficient, relaxed, and totally together.
Marble Hair Is the Hot New Hair Dye Trend - and It's So Damn Cool!
We thought we'd seen it all from marble beauty trends after marble lip art, marble nail art, and even Valentine's Day marble nail art, but the latest marble style proves this melting trend isn't going anywhere. Hair marbling is the new hair dyeing technique that creates beautiful tie-dye shades, but it's the way the formula is created that's so mesmerizing.
First spotted by Allure, hairstylist Ash Fortis has made hair marbling her signature style after wanting to bring the popular nail art trend to hair. What makes marbled hair so special is that the results are unique every single time.
To create the dye formula, Fortis explained that she starts with putting a layer of shaving cream onto foam mesh strips. Using Pulp Riot dye, she spreads different bright colored dyes on top of the cream and uses the back of her color brush to create marbled, swirled designs on the strip. When the design is ready, she separates the hair and presses a small section of the hair onto the strip with the dye and places a clear strip on top. She does this for multiple sections of hair. The result is a beautiful, multicolored design.
Keep reading to see more of Fortis's mesmerizing technique and the stunning results of her clients.
Embrace Your Grungy Glam With This Silky Purple Waterproof Liquid Lipstick
Just as we were getting ready to trade in our dark lipstick shades for brighter Summer hues, LASplash Cosmetics unveiled the perfect purple liquid lipstick in a brand new formula. Perilous is part of the Angels x Sinners Collection, and it'll instantly make you feel like you're on the dark side.
Since it has been revamped and totally upgraded for extended wear time, the new liquid lipstick formula is described as the "silkiest formula yet." It's lightweight, soft, and suppermatte. But the best part about the lippie is that it's water resistant for up to four hours, so we don't need to ditch the dark side during pool time.
Keep reading to see swatches and more photos of the LASplash Cosmetics Wickedly Divine Liquid Lipstick in Perilous ($18).
Embrace Your Grungy Glam With This Silky Purple Waterproof Liquid Lipstick
Just as we were getting ready to trade in our dark lipstick shades for brighter Summer hues, LASplash Cosmetics unveiled the perfect purple liquid lipstick in a brand new formula. Perilous is part of the Angels x Sinners Collection, and it'll instantly make you feel like you're on the dark side.
Since it has been revamped and totally upgraded for extended wear time, the new liquid lipstick formula is described as the "silkiest formula yet." It's lightweight, soft, and suppermatte. But the best part about the lippie is that it's water resistant for up to four hours, so we don't need to ditch the dark side during pool time.
Keep reading to see swatches and more photos of the LASplash Cosmetics Wickedly Divine Liquid Lipstick in Perilous ($18).
40 Signs You're a True Member of the Bay Area
The Bay Area is basically its own little world. The location is a mecca of technology, food, sports, culture . . . I could go on and on. Whether you live in the heart of San Francisco or on the outskirts of the East Bay, there are some distinctive features to the area that we all know about. Keep reading to reminisce about one of the coolest places around.
- You shudder with revulsion when you hear the terms "Frisco" and "San Fran."
- You have said "hella" before.
- You've driven over the Bay Bridge a million times more than the Golden Gate Bridge.
- You know exactly who Sarah and Vinnie are.
- You got down to "Thizzle Dance" by Mac Dre at all high school dances.
- You are surprised when stores don't charge for bags and feel guilty when you can't recycle/compost your waste.
- People you grew up with constantly refer to it as "Yay Area."
- You never leave home without a light sweater.
- You are surprised when your flight hasn't been delayed due to fog.
- To you, "The City" is San Francisco.
- You know one sporting event (Warriors, Giants, 49ers) will ruin any chance you have of going anywhere.
- You know the rap poetry of Andre Nickatina and E-40 quite well.
- You had more than one friend with a club card in high school.
- You scoff when out-of-towners call it The Bart.
- Carne asada fries are an art that you appreciate to the fullest extent.
- You remember when Wild 94.9 was Wild 107.
- You know what cars parked along the side of the road at Grizzly Peak are REALLY doing.
- You don't know what snowy Winters are like.
- You have never been required to wear suits in an office setting.
- Earthquakes don't faze you, but you do have a couple jugs of water in your garage just in case.
- True freedom meant your mom drove you to the BART station.
- You've taken out-of-town guests to the Golden Gate Bridge before and had to turn around because it was fogged in.
- You regularly refer to weather patterns with male names, like Karl.
- Produce is in season all year long.
- When it's above 70 degrees outside, you FREAK out.
- You have been wine tasting . . . a lot.
- You avoid Pier 39 at all costs.
- When you meet someone from the Bay Area, you ask them where they went to high school.
- You went to Alcatraz on a field trip and not again since.
- The area is so socially progressive you feel like every other city is way behind.
- You have very strong opinions on the best place to get a burrito.
- You remember what neighborhoods were like the before they were gentrified.
- "Artisanal" is a regular word in your vocabulary.
- You believe Philz Coffee is totally worth the money.
- You think Uber is a pretty normal and basic way to get around.
- You are shocked by how cheap the rent prices are in other places.
- You have a list of the best pizza and burgers around.
- You have a Clipper card.
- You will travel for ice cream.
- You will never ever move anywhere else. Why would you?
25 Places You Have to Stop on Your Drive Through the Midwest
If you're from the Midwest, you know just how special the region is - friendly people, good food, fast-paced festivals, picturesque landscape, kick-ass jargon ("pop" is a hundred thousand times cooler than "soda"). . . And if, unfortunately, you were born and raised in another part of the country? It's time for you to get a solid taste of the best states in the US. Ahead are 25 stops you have to make while driving in the Midwest - this road trip will be one for the books.
See How Much the Cast of Dawson's Creek Has Changed Over the Years
I know this is probably going to be hard to believe, but Dawson's Creek has been off the air for 14 years. Fourteen years! If that seems ridiculous to you, you're definitely not alone, especially because most of the cast members look like barely any time has passed since the seminal teen drama went off the air in 2003. Sure, Katie Holmes has ditched Joey Potter's tomboy look for something a little more chic and Joshua Jackson has grown some scruff, but overall they're aging like fine wine. From Oscar nominations to having teenagers of their own, see where the show's main cast is today.
How Sharp Should Kitchen Knives Be? Chances Are, Yours Are Dull AF
Most of us use dull knives in the kitchen. It's such a universal and widespread thing, we've grown accustomed to it! We feel safer handling a less-sharp knife and assume cutting into fruits and vegetables is just hard, annoying work that results in a sore, blistered hand. The problem is, dull knives are actually dangerous, and you pose a greater risk of injury trying to exert so much force on the fruits and vegetables at hand.
Here's the truth: knives are supposed to be so sharp that they basically slice the object at hand with minimal effort. You give it the slightest nudge, and the knife should slip right through the food. That can be a daunting, scary thing to an untrained cook, but when you take just a little time to learn how to properly handle a knife and practice basic knife skills, you'll wonder why you've suffered through cutting carrots and onions until this point.
There's an easy test to do to see if your knife needs sharpening. Try slicing a piece of paper. Try cutting the corner away from your body. The knife should glide effortlessly through the paper, leaving a smooth, clean cut. If it gets caught or you end up with a jagged line, you have yourself a dull knife. Another dead giveaway of a dull knife? If your tomato turns into a pulpy mess when you try to slice it. Take your knives to a professional knife sharpener, which can be found at Sur La Table and local hardware stores. Alternatively, you can always attempt to learn how to sharpen your knives at home.
Drew Barrymore's New Zine Will Have a Special Place in Your Heart - and on Your Coffee Table
Drew Barrymore does it all: she's a Golden Globe-winning actress, beauty entrepreneur, winemaker, and mom of two adorable daughters - but she is far from done adding to her list of accomplishments. The Santa Clarita Diet star recently launched her own magazine, Flower Press, which harks back to the days of '90s zines and good old-fashioned reading off of actual paper. Remember? In a letter from the editor posted to the magazine's website, Drew wrote, "It's so fun to unveil a big enormous piece of content and then fold it to my choices of size and handheld origami," adding, "It's a ritual that I am proud to display in front of my kids [Olive and Frankie] as we lay in bed together at the start of every day."
On Friday, Drew donned a rainbow-colored dress and wide-brimmed hat to pass out copies of Flower Press to unsuspecting subway commuters at The New Stand in Manhattan's Columbus Circle. It took a few minutes for people to realize that the star of such cinematic classics like The Wedding Singer and Never Been Kissed was handing them a literal gift, but eventually, locals caught on to the magical presence within their midst. The Spring 2017 preview issue of Flower Press features beauty secrets from Drew's makeup line, Flower Beauty, as well as expert interviews, recipes, an NYC city guide, and more.
Image Source: Flower Press
All online orders from Flower Beauty will include a copy of Flower Press's preview issue. The premiere issue will debut later this year, and you can sign up for more info on the site. As Drew writes: "I promise we will do our best to make it something worth holding onto. In this fast-paced world, we certainly have our work cut out for us but if we do it right, I hope you find us worthy of a place on your bedroom wall." We already have a spot ready.
40 Outdoor Date Ideas For Summer Lovin'
Take advantage of the warm temperatures Summer has to offer by taking date night outside! We've rounded up tons of beautiful inspiration for romantic outdoorsy outings (some are perfect for crossing off your Summer bucket list). So grab your fling or longtime lover, throw on a bikini or your sneakers, and get your Summer lovin' on with these outdoor date ideas.
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
Grey's Anatomy Star Ellen Pompeo's Modern Barn Summer House Is Cool AF
Designing a home is an arduous process even for big celebrities like Grey's Anatomy star Ellen Pompeo. When the actress embarked on a vacation home in Sag Harbor, however, she never expected that it would take many years, multiple people, and a completely revised plan. And Ellen is no fledgling home remodeler, mind you. She's worked on two Mediterranean homes, two modern homes, and a midcentury Malibu beach house. Creating beautiful interiors, "is my hobby and I absolutely love it," she told Architectural Digest in a recent feature.
Eight years and three children after Ellen purchased the property, her dream vacation home was much different, but no less wonderful, than she imagined. Initially, Ellen planned to update an original cabin on the property as a guest house and build a sprawling main house beside it. Before she could break ground, Ellen's attention was divided by the Malibu beach house, a passion project for her. Construction of the big vacation home was put on hold indefinitely, and (after a few design snags), the cabin was transformed into a charming modern barn decorated by Ellen, celebrity interior designer Estee Stanley, and Estee's business partner Brigette Romanek.
The three woman worked around size and configuration challenges to create a fresh, unfussy, and inviting space for Ellen and her family to spend the Summer. "I was looking to do something modern and hip and young, and I wanted to do something you don't see out there - I wanted to do something different," Ellen explained to Architectural Digest. We think she's succeeded. Judge for yourself in the images ahead, then head to ArchitecturalDigest.com for the full story.
Why This Mom Refuses to Teach Her Girls to Dress "Modestly"
As the mother of six daughters, Jessica Martin Weber has ample experience raising young girls. Like many moms, she wants her daughters to learn to love their bodies and how she is teaching them body positivity might leave some surprised: there are no rules when it comes to what they wear.
In a recent Facebook post, Jessica shared that not only does she not enforce any standards of modest dress for her children but also the reasoning behind her strong conviction. "Modesty is too subjective and true modesty is about attitude and our heart," she wrote. "To us, enforcing modesty standards is about controlling people and we have found that is counterproductive and undermines our commitment to respecting bodily autonomy."
To prove her point, Jessica included a photo of herself with two of her girls and explained how some might consider their outfits to be inappropriate while others might think they are modest. "We never, ever tell them something isn't OK to wear for modesty reasons," she wrote. "I don't regret this decision as we watch our daughters bloom with confidence and dress for themselves rather than for the gaze of others."
Jessica explained that her children follow the dress code guidelines at school but other than that lets her girls wear what they want. They ask six "practical" questions about their clothing choices, that has nothing to do with modesty:
- Can you participate in the activities you will need to do without worrying about your clothing?
- Is it practical for the weather?
- Will the clothing you wear seem out of place in that setting or will it communicate respect for where you are and who you are with based on the social norms of that setting?
- Are YOU comfortable with the parts of your body that are showing and that others may notice those parts and though we are not responsible for the actions of others, how will you feel if someone says something about that?
- Can you tell me what inspired you to pick that outfit and what you feel it expresses about yourself and communicates to others?
- Are your genitals adequately protected and safe from accidental harm or accidental exposure
Although she grew up with "very restrictive" modesty standards, Jessica shared why she refuses to enforce these rules with her own children. "Focusing on what is or isn't OK for other people to see of our bodies, in my opinion, leads to shame," she wrote. "Shame makes everything more difficult, including when sexual assault or harassment happens because then one wonders if it is because they dressed 'wrong.'"
If Jessica or her husband, Jeremy, have a concern over what one of their kids are wearing, they refer to one of the questions and discuss it with them. "It is a priority to us that we be respectful of them and do not put them in the position of having to defend their choices as to how they dress their bodies," she wrote. "Instead, we may let them know what we observed that led to our concern. We will not overpower their autonomy and will show them the respect they deserve as individuals that does not hinge on what they wear but rather their personhood."
For those who don't understand how this works, 7-year-old Cosette perfectly summed it up: "I wear what I like but I make sure my vulva is covered," she told the Huffington Post.
If You Try 1 New Trend This Summer, Make it the Gingham Dress
You don't have to look very far to see this season's biggest trend in action. We're talking about gingham print, and whether you focus in on footwear or apparel, the checked pattern is everywhere. If it has piqued your interest, you're not alone - it has a strong hold on us as well. Join us as we devour Summer's biggest selection of gingham dresses yet.
How Sharp Should Kitchen Knives Be? Chances Are, Yours Are Dull AF
Most of us use dull knives in the kitchen. It's such a universal and widespread thing, we've grown accustomed to it! We feel safer handling a less-sharp knife and assume cutting into fruits and vegetables is just hard, annoying work that results in a sore, blistered hand. The problem is, dull knives are actually dangerous, and you pose a greater risk of injury trying to exert so much force on the fruits and vegetables at hand.
Here's the truth: knives are supposed to be so sharp that they basically slice the object at hand with minimal effort. You give it the slightest nudge, and the knife should slip right through the food. That can be a daunting, scary thing to an untrained cook, but when you take just a little time to learn how to properly handle a knife and practice basic knife skills, you'll wonder why you've suffered through cutting carrots and onions until this point.
There's an easy test to do to see if your knife needs sharpening. Try slicing a piece of paper. Try cutting the corner away from your body. The knife should glide effortlessly through the paper, leaving a smooth, clean cut. If it gets caught or you end up with a jagged line, you have yourself a dull knife. Another dead giveaway of a dull knife? If your tomato turns into a pulpy mess when you try to slice it. Take your knives to a professional knife sharpener, which can be found at Sur La Table and local hardware stores. Alternatively, you can always attempt to learn how to sharpen your knives at home.
Why This Mom Refuses to Teach Her Girls to Dress "Modestly"
As the mother of six daughters, Jessica Martin Weber has ample experience raising young girls. Like many moms, she wants her daughters to learn to love their bodies and how she is teaching them body positivity might leave some surprised: there are no rules when it comes to what they wear.
In a recent Facebook post, Jessica shared that not only does she not enforce any standards of modest dress for her children but also the reasoning behind her strong conviction. "Modesty is too subjective and true modesty is about attitude and our heart," she wrote. "To us, enforcing modesty standards is about controlling people and we have found that is counterproductive and undermines our commitment to respecting bodily autonomy."
To prove her point, Jessica included a photo of herself with two of her girls and explained how some might consider their outfits to be inappropriate while others might think they are modest. "We never, ever tell them something isn't OK to wear for modesty reasons," she wrote. "I don't regret this decision as we watch our daughters bloom with confidence and dress for themselves rather than for the gaze of others."
Jessica explained that her children follow the dress code guidelines at school but other than that lets her girls wear what they want. They ask six "practical" questions about their clothing choices, that has nothing to do with modesty:
- Can you participate in the activities you will need to do without worrying about your clothing?
- Is it practical for the weather?
- Will the clothing you wear seem out of place in that setting or will it communicate respect for where you are and who you are with based on the social norms of that setting?
- Are YOU comfortable with the parts of your body that are showing and that others may notice those parts and though we are not responsible for the actions of others, how will you feel if someone says something about that?
- Can you tell me what inspired you to pick that outfit and what you feel it expresses about yourself and communicates to others?
- Are your genitals adequately protected and safe from accidental harm or accidental exposure
Although she grew up with "very restrictive" modesty standards, Jessica shared why she refuses to enforce these rules with her own children. "Focusing on what is or isn't OK for other people to see of our bodies, in my opinion, leads to shame," she wrote. "Shame makes everything more difficult, including when sexual assault or harassment happens because then one wonders if it is because they dressed 'wrong.'"
If Jessica or her husband, Jeremy, have a concern over what one of their kids are wearing, they refer to one of the questions and discuss it with them. "It is a priority to us that we be respectful of them and do not put them in the position of having to defend their choices as to how they dress their bodies," she wrote. "Instead, we may let them know what we observed that led to our concern. We will not overpower their autonomy and will show them the respect they deserve as individuals that does not hinge on what they wear but rather their personhood."
For those who don't understand how this works, 7-year-old Cosette perfectly summed it up: "I wear what I like but I make sure my vulva is covered," she told the Huffington Post.
10 Essentials Every Intern Should Have
Whether you're a new grad or are still working toward your degree, internships are great opportunities to get your foot in the door. If you've just landed your first interning gig, you may be wondering what you should bring along. Consider these 10 essentials - from a positive attitude to a workplace wardrobe - before you head into the office.
- Good attitude. This is a new opportunity, and you should make the most of it while you can. With most intern contracts lasting for a semester or so, it's important to not go into a job with a negative attitude. Being approachable will make it easier to network with your co-workers and set the tone for a great internship experience. Who knows, you may just end up getting hired. Everyone had to start somewhere, and it doesn't hurt to start off with some positive vibes.
- Workplace attire. If you've ever held a job at a retail store or restaurant, you may be accustomed to wearing a set uniform. But with internships, it's a whole new game for which you will need to look the part. Plan to be working side by side full-time employees, which means you won't want to come in looking like you just rolled out of bed. Just because you're working in the office doesn't mean there's not a chance to still look fashionable and stylish. You can easily dress up casual items for a workplace setting. Items you should consider adding to your wardrobe include a blazer, skinny jeans, tights, blouses, sweaters, dresses, and a skirt. It's not as hard as you might think to transform a casual item into workplace wear by just dressing it up a bit.
- Notebook. During your internship, you'll need a safe place to keep all of your notes in. While many may prefer sticking to technology, notebooks are a hard copy of everything you want to remember. Your notebook will have just about everything you'll learn and/or need for the duration of your internship, whether it's memos or ideas. Just be careful not to misplace it! You may just reference it again in the future.
- Pens. If you're planning to carry a notebook, pens are the quintessential pairing. You can't take great notes without a good pen, right?
- Reliable bag. One accessory that is vital to any intern is a bag of your choice. Whether it's a handbag, a tote, or even a backpack, you want something that won't rip at the seams during your internship. If you want your bag to carry items such as your laptop, notebook, and lunch, you'll probably want to opt for something a little larger. But if you prefer to keep your bag on the small size, other great options are clutches or satchels.
- Reusable water bottle. While you're in the office, you'll want to stay hydrated to stay on top of your game. Instead of using plastic water bottles, consider investing in a reusable one. It's good for the environment, and you'll have something stylish to keep your H2O in.
- Watch. Keeping an eye on the clock is key, whether you're meeting deadlines or making it to the office on time. Although most people now rely on computers or cell phones to check what time it is, a watch is still the classic option. Besides, when you're in a meeting, it's probably better to glance down at your wrist rather than whip out your cell phone. Bonus: your watch won't nearly need as much charging as any electronic.
- The right shoes. Your workplace attire wouldn't be quite complete without a great pair of shoes. There's a shoe for every taste, ranging from flats to booties. Take into consideration what your duties will be as an intern, and you can adjust your choice shoe. Just be careful to break in your shoes ahead of time - that way you won't be dealing with blisters later!
- Beauty bag to freshen up. Have you ever had to be somewhere right after work? Whether it's a dinner with co-workers or a last-minute meeting, keeping a few basic items nearby is a surefire way that you can freshen up with no hassle. Hair ties, bobby pins, stain remover, mints, and perfume or deodorant are great items to keep handy at your desk or in your bag. You never know when they'll come in handy, but you'll be thankful when they do.
- Willingness to learn. As an intern, you're there to gain experience and pick up new skills. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself with new projects since it's all part of the learning process. Your co-workers are there to assist you, so don't shy away from asking any questions you may have. If you really want to show some initiative, brainstorm some ideas of your own that you want to work on. In the end, if you get to work on a project you're enthusiastic about, your internship will not only be more rewarding, but you'll also walk away with some good memories.
8 Facial Essences That Will Change Your Skincare Routine Forever
Every night, I do the same six-step facial routine. I, rinse, dry, tone, apply, lather, and dab. And until recently, I thought this was enough. But after learning about facial essence, a water-like lotion that's purpose is to deeply moisturize and rejuvenate the skin of its natural oils after it has been stripped down by cleansing, I think it's time for me to add a seventh step.
Facial essence should be used as the middle step before you moisturize. Simply pat it onto your face and neck with your hands or a cotton pad (though we suggest your hands so you don't waste a drop) for a brighter and softer completion. Ready to make a purchase? Here are our top picks.
15 Rosé Drinks and Desserts to Further Fuel Your Obsession
This year is officially the year Rosé wine exploded into a viral sensation. Celebrities like Drew Barrymore released Rosé. Then, frozen Rosé, aka frosé, became the most talked-about beverage on the internet. And finally, Sugarfina released Rosé gummy bears, and the wait list for a box has grown to 12,500. That's right, for candy. Lucky for you, we've pulled together a ton of recipes using Rosé wine - including homemade Rosé gummies, Rosé sangria, Rosé slushies, and more - so you can fuel your obsession when a craving strikes.
15 Rosé Drinks and Desserts to Further Fuel Your Obsession
This year is officially the year Rosé wine exploded into a viral sensation. Celebrities like Drew Barrymore released Rosé. Then, frozen Rosé, aka frosé, became the most talked-about beverage on the internet. And finally, Sugarfina released Rosé gummy bears, and the wait list for a box has grown to 12,500. That's right, for candy. Lucky for you, we've pulled together a ton of recipes using Rosé wine - including homemade Rosé gummies, Rosé sangria, Rosé slushies, and more - so you can fuel your obsession when a craving strikes.
8 Facial Essences That Will Change Your Skincare Routine Forever
Every night, I do the same six-step facial routine. I, rinse, dry, tone, apply, lather, and dab. And until recently, I thought this was enough. But after learning about facial essence, a water-like lotion that's purpose is to deeply moisturize and rejuvenate the skin of its natural oils after it has been stripped down by cleansing, I think it's time for me to add a seventh step.
Facial essence should be used as the middle step before you moisturize. Simply pat it onto your face and neck with your hands or a cotton pad (though we suggest your hands so you don't waste a drop) for a brighter and softer completion. Ready to make a purchase? Here are our top picks.
We Let Our Baby Cry It Out, and 10 Years Later, This Is What Happened
Three months into this parenting gig, I'd had enough. Our bedtime routine with our infant son had turned into a two-hour affair that left me and my husband eating dinner at 10 p.m., me up with indigestion for another few hours, and only a few hours of shut-eye before I had to wake up for the day. I was preparing to go back to work, and no amount of concealer, corrector, or eye masks could hide the dark purple circles that had become permanent fixtures under my eyes, never mind function like a thinking adult in an office job.
I needed a solution, and I needed one quick. My own parents swore by "Ferberizing" me, and I was willing to give it a try. Ferberizing, or "crying it out," is a sleep training method popularized by Dr. Richard Ferber to teach a baby to soothe him or herself to sleep. The practice involves putting your baby to bed while still awake and leaving her there even if she cries. After a predetermined amount of time, parents can go in and soothe their child (patting her back, talking to her, etc.), without picking her up. Dr. Ferber says that after a few days, the baby learns to soothe herself and fall asleep on her own.
But when I asked for some tips and tricks from the moms in my moms group at the local park, I was greeted with blank stares and astonishment. One suggested it was a form of torture and that my baby would never trust me again. Another clenched her chest, saying she "could never!" And the one sitting next to me pointedly scooted a few inches away from me.
After that reaction, could I really do it? You don't get much closer than me and my parents, so it doesn't seem to have affected our relationship. And I really needed to get into a routine before returning to work.
So on a Wednesday night when my son was 3 months old, I bathed him, lotioned him up, fed him, read him three books, and put him in his crib in a dreamy but still technically awake state. As soon as I closed his door, he was crying. My husband said we should wait another day and try it tomorrow, but I knew that if we put it off today, we'd put it off tomorrow, and we couldn't just do this the night before I went back to work.
The first stretch of crying was painful. I couldn't believe I was letting my baby cry so much. Five minutes later, after soothing him, it appeared that all was well, until two minutes after closing his door, the same thing happened. The next stretch was 10 minutes, and we barely made it through before the timer went off and I raced into his room to begin the routine again. I didn't think we'd make it through the next stretch (15 minutes), until my phone rang. My husband's cousin was calling to check on me and see how I was doing in general. I told her we were Ferberizing and just starting our 15-minute stretch. Before I knew it, my alarm rang that it was 15 minutes. She had talked my ear off for the entire time - mindless things that she probably didn't even care about but was throwing my way to keep me occupied. And I looked at our baby monitor, he was asleep - with a big smile on his face.
I'd never say that it was easy and that we never turned back - no one told me about the torture that is sleep regression or how cutting a tooth can mess up everything! - but we certainly crossed a hurdle that day. And our sleep routine became bearable.
Ten years later, I can tell you that my son has shown no adverse affects from his Ferberization. He still likes me to sit with him when he goes to sleep but can easily do so without me. He still hugs me and treats me as his confidante, but he is also independent and strong-willed. Like recent studies show, the Ferber method is safe, when done correctly.
Years after we'd trained both my boys, a friend reminded me of this Mad About You episode that showed Paul and Jamie trying to train their baby Mabel. It captures the experience perfectly!
50 States of Summer Travel Destinations
With Summer right around the corner, it's time to start planning your next vacation. And with a size of 3.8 million square miles, the United States has you covered when it comes to travel and adventure. From majestic national parks and awe-inspiring natural wonders to vivacious metropolitan cities or serene seaside towns, whatever you're in the mood for, America is packed with options that will satisfy your craving. So, go ahead - pack your bags. We've combed through each state in search of epic travel destinations. All you have to do is decide where to go and how to get there!
We Let Our Baby Cry It Out, and 10 Years Later, This Is What Happened
Three months into this parenting gig, I'd had enough. Our bedtime routine with our infant son had turned into a two-hour affair that left me and my husband eating dinner at 10 p.m., me up with indigestion for another few hours, and only a few hours of shut-eye before I had to wake up for the day. I was preparing to go back to work, and no amount of concealer, corrector, or eye masks could hide the dark purple circles that had become permanent fixtures under my eyes, never mind function like a thinking adult in an office job.
I needed a solution, and I needed one quick. My own parents swore by "Ferberizing" me, and I was willing to give it a try. Ferberizing, or "crying it out," is a sleep training method popularized by Dr. Richard Ferber to teach a baby to soothe him or herself to sleep. The practice involves putting your baby to bed while still awake and leaving her there even if she cries. After a predetermined amount of time, parents can go in and soothe their child (patting her back, talking to her, etc.), without picking her up. Dr. Ferber says that after a few days, the baby learns to soothe herself and fall asleep on her own.
But when I asked for some tips and tricks from the moms in my moms group at the local park, I was greeted with blank stares and astonishment. One suggested it was a form of torture and that my baby would never trust me again. Another clenched her chest, saying she "could never!" And the one sitting next to me pointedly scooted a few inches away from me.
After that reaction, could I really do it? You don't get much closer than me and my parents, so it doesn't seem to have affected our relationship. And I really needed to get into a routine before returning to work.
So on a Wednesday night when my son was 3 months old, I bathed him, lotioned him up, fed him, read him three books, and put him in his crib in a dreamy but still technically awake state. As soon as I closed his door, he was crying. My husband said we should wait another day and try it tomorrow, but I knew that if we put it off today, we'd put it off tomorrow, and we couldn't just do this the night before I went back to work.
The first stretch of crying was painful. I couldn't believe I was letting my baby cry so much. Five minutes later, after soothing him, it appeared that all was well, until two minutes after closing his door, the same thing happened. The next stretch was 10 minutes, and we barely made it through before the timer went off and I raced into his room to begin the routine again. I didn't think we'd make it through the next stretch (15 minutes), until my phone rang. My husband's cousin was calling to check on me and see how I was doing in general. I told her we were Ferberizing and just starting our 15-minute stretch. Before I knew it, my alarm rang that it was 15 minutes. She had talked my ear off for the entire time - mindless things that she probably didn't even care about but was throwing my way to keep me occupied. And I looked at our baby monitor, he was asleep - with a big smile on his face.
I'd never say that it was easy and that we never turned back - no one told me about the torture that is sleep regression or how cutting a tooth can mess up everything! - but we certainly crossed a hurdle that day. And our sleep routine became bearable.
Ten years later, I can tell you that my son has shown no adverse affects from his Ferberization. He still likes me to sit with him when he goes to sleep but can easily do so without me. He still hugs me and treats me as his confidante, but he is also independent and strong-willed. Like recent studies show, the Ferber method is safe, when done correctly.
Years after we'd trained both my boys, a friend reminded me of this Mad About You episode that showed Paul and Jamie trying to train their baby Mabel. It captures the experience perfectly!
Trust Us, You've Never Heard a Cover of "Despacito" Like This Before
Posted by Aferrados TV on Monday, May 29, 2017
Say hello to the epic instrumental cover of "Despacito" that you won't be able to say goodbye to. Aferrados TV posted a video on Facebook of two musicians, Jean Atajue and Alexis, according to the opening credits, playing the track with zampoñas (traditional South American pan flutes), and the results are spectacular. We can't even imagine the amount of skill and time these guys took to make this awesome instrumental cover happen. We wonder what Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee think about it? We bet they will love it as much as we do. Watch the video above - it'll send chills down your spine!
12 Latinx Swimsuit Brands That Will Make You Excited For Summer
Latin America is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in world. That's why we're not surprised to see Latinas drawing inspiration from these gorgeous coasts to create the perfect swimsuit lines.
These 12 brands bring an authentic Latin essence, creating pieces any woman would want to wear. From bold and vibrant prints to frilly and flattering styles, there's seriously something for every taste. Don't forget to pack one or two - OK maybe a few - for your next vacation! Keep reading to learn more about your new favorite swimwear brands, and then check out some more Latin-created fashion lines and bridal ateliers.
Meet the 19-Year-Old Activist Fighting Against Child Marriage
Before she was even 15 years old, Memory Banda was already a seasoned activist. When she witnessed firsthand how women in her Malawi community were subjected to sexual initiation (which typically led to impregnation and marriage), Banda felt compelled to change the traditions. It was personal for Banda: her 11-year-old sister was forced to marry the man who impregnated her during such a ritual. Around the same time, Banda encountered the Girls Empowerment Network (GEN). She says the organization empowered her further to take on the challenges that would come with fighting long-established community traditions. Banda worked with GEN on a campaign to stop child marriages, organizing storytelling gatherings for women to share their experiences as child brides.
Banda, now 19, went on to lead a successful campaign to make 21 the legal age for marriage in Malawi. Harsh penalties have also been established for people who break these new laws: men who marry underage girls must pay a significant fine in goats, chickens, and land; parents who marry off their underage daughters are now required to perform public service in their local community.
On March 28, Banda spoke at the Professional BusinessWomen of California Conference, taking the stage right before Hillary Clinton. We spoke with Banda before her talk about her experience as an activist, educator, and woman - and her wisdom is astounding.
POPSUGAR: Were you in touch with the Girls Empowerment Network before or after you realized how unjustly marriage was approached in your community?
MB: It was right before. That was the time my little sister got pregnant and was forced to go marry the person who impregnated her. That was when I had all these crazy questions in my mind, like, "What is our culture? Why are girls being affected more?" I looked at the situation with my sister and thought, "No girl has to go through this."
POPSUGAR: You started literacy classes for young women in your community. Was there a particular moment that inspired you to start those classes? Was there ever any pushback from other people in the community about these classes?
MB: I'll take you back a little bit. I imagined what my sister would become, because she wouldn't go to school [after she got married]. People thought that once you get married, that's the end of you as a young person. But I looked at it in a very different way: if a young girl goes into marriage, that doesn't have to be the end of her. And [I initiated] these literacy classes.
I also learned a lot from them. In the literacy classes, these young women who were my age - young mothers - were able to tell me what they were going through . . . the problems they were facing every day. They were going through a series of abuses from their husbands. Financially they were unstable and dependent on the man. That's when I saw how big the problem of child marriage is. I moved on to talking to my traditional leaders about some of the effects and some of the negative traditions.
All these child marriage issues, by the end of the day, you would find the biggest linkages are the cultural norms and cultural traditions in the community. You see that the girl child is not really valued in the community. What she is valued most for is "Oh, you're going to get married, your husband will support your family, your parents will get support." That's the only value seen in girls. When I saw that, I felt like I could change that focal point.
POPSUGAR: What was the conversation with traditional leaders in your community like?
MB: It was hard. It was a bunch of young girls and an organization in the community. You know how an organization can implement a project and after one or two years, it's gone? So the leaders were just like, "We'll wait it out." They were so surprised that we were still talking about this. Personally, the empowerment that I got was very huge. I did not stop because I wanted to see the changes I could make in the community.
The first time I spoke, it was very hard because I was very small. I was very scared. Later on, when people were talking about us as young girls who don't respect the tradition, it was very sad to be told that you're not respecting the tradition of the community. I looked at it in a very different way. I felt like if these people are looking at us in this way, that means we're doing something that is changing us and them as traditional leaders. That's when I felt like, "Yeah, let me go on and do this."
POPSUGAR: You saw some very successful changes directly because of your activism; there's now a legal precedent for when a woman can get married in Malawi. How would you encourage women to keep fighting through the bureaucratic red tape? Do you have any advice?
MB: Absolutely. As women and girls globally, we always have to have that mind of trying. I think that's what has been pushing me all the time. Sometimes, when I sit down and feel like I might not see any positive results from what I am doing, I think about [how] some years back I didn't even know that this was where these things would take me to.
I've always been that kind of person pushing for what I believe in. It's very important that women and the girls all over the world also have to believe in ourselves and push for what we believe in. Even if it doesn't work out, at least you can say that you tried.
"As women, we have the power of influencing. We may not realize we're influencing someone at that moment or influencing something, [but] we have that power."
POPSUGAR: Is there a specific moment or memory when you realized your own strength and power?
MB: It takes me back to the first time I stood up and spoke in front of my traditional leaders - and then when I saw the changes that were coming behind me. When we were advocating for the raise of the legal marriage age, when I saw the support that I got, I was like, "Oh! I can do this!" I think that was the point of self realization. That's when I felt like it is possible for a person to do anything to try to change something.
POPSUGAR: Can you think of an anecdote which speaks to how you have transformed how men in your community view women?
MB At first it was very hard. In my country, there are a lot of patriarchal communities. It's all over, but in Africa, it's even worse. In particular, in Malawi, it's way worse. We have been used to seeing men stand up and speak in front of people. It has always been the norm. But then to see girls standing up - it was challenging that patriarchal tradition in my community.
Men looked at us and said, "Oh, look at them, they won't go far." They were surprised to see that we were still pushing for this, and little by little, we gained their respect and their understanding. Men having been supporting us in this activism in every possible way. It's just amazing to see my fellow young people, the boys just being there and supporting us. When we were doing the amendment of the constitution, our group was actually comprised of so many young men.
POPSUGAR: What are you working on right now? What are your future plans?
MB: First and foremost, I'll continue my advocacy work for girls' rights. Apart from that, I'm looking for future personal development - because I feel like, personally, I have to develop as well. I'm looking forward to finishing school, college.
I was telling my sister that apart from me pursuing my education, I've always wanted to do law, and I feel like I still have to pursue that. When I sit back and see what I've done, it leads to policies and law. For me to go through all these social campaigns, first I had to understand what the laws said, what the acts said, what other policies linked up to all these issues around me. If I go into the field of law, it will be so much easier for me to advocate and work.
POPSUGAR: What do you think the most beautiful thing about being a woman is?
MB: That's a tricky question. I love being a woman, but I don't even know how I can respond to that. There's so many things. I love being a woman because I feel like I've always been an influencer. Most of the time, when I am around men and I pose my ideas, critics come in. By the end of the day you see that you have spoken something that has influenced them. The men think that they're the ones who posed that idea, but I'm the one who did that.
As women, we have the power of influencing. We may not realize we're influencing someone at that moment or influencing something, [but] we have that power. We have that influencing power, and with that power, we can do a lot of things. It feels like trickery, but it's not really a trick. With that power, we can influence a lot of things around us. It's the skill of being a woman.
The Life and Times of My Drag Queen Grandmother, Flawless Sabrina
I met my grandmother, Flawless Sabrina, when I was 18. It was 2001, and I had just moved to New York City from Syracuse. I went to the West Side Piers for Wigstock, a drag festival they had back then. I couldn't afford the $20 to get in and see the performance, so I hung out near the entrance and took pictures of some of the queens who were coming in and out. As Flawless Sabrina left, I took a picture of her, and she said to me, "You're on the wrong side of the camera, kid."
I hung that picture on my wall. Later, I continued to see her around in the club scene. She was always the oldest person in the club. She's now 77 and has lived in the same apartment in New York for 50 years.
In the pre-Stonewall days, Flawless Sabrina was incarcerated around 100 times for the crime of cross-dressing, while she toured her drag contests across America from 1959 to 1969. She and her friends took that act from town to city to town, all across America from Appalachia to the Pacific Northwest. They would organize local talent to perform. In a grassroots effort coordinated by phone tree, advance people would go to the next city or town to hang out in the coffee shops, find out who the gossip queens were, and who could spread the word that the drag contest was coming to town. It was an underground network.
Those are the people that I look to in times like this: our elders who survived intolerably hostile environments and times. Many of the people I revere and look up to have been able to see around the corner. It seems trans folks have a long history of being seers in their communities.
Throughout history, we have been persecuted. Globally, we are persecuted. Nationally, we're persecuted. The stakes are always changing. And the stakes I have, as an American-born white trans woman, are very different from the stakes of my trans sisters who are undocumented and from Central America. The stakes are different for all of us, so it's essential that we look out for the more vulnerable members of our community. Pride this year is more important than it has ever been in my lifetime.
We need to tap into the spirit of resilience.Flawless Sabrina would tell me stories about the way the queens used to treat each other or trans women. Sex workers in Central Park were throwing acid in each other's faces, or super-gluing bits of razor blades under their fingernails, so they could claw each other. We're a group of people who have not always had a good sense of community or sisterhood, a people who've been devoured by internalized shame.
We can't afford to attack each other any longer. It's divisive and cruel to single people out because their politics are different from ours. We're all fighting for the same things, respect and equality.
We need to tap into the spirit of resilience that Flawless has shown. We need to nourish the sense of pride that catapulted the first brick at the Stonewall riots. We need to listen to our inner voices saying: "I'm worth more than this, and I'm willing to speak out and fight for it!"
As told to Ryan Roschke
Trust Us, You've Never Heard a Cover of "Despacito" Like This Before
Posted by Aferrados TV on Monday, May 29, 2017
Say hello to the epic instrumental cover of "Despacito" that you won't be able to say goodbye to. Aferrados TV posted a video on Facebook of two musicians, Jean Atajue and Alexis, according to the opening credits, playing the track with zampoñas (traditional South American pan flutes), and the results are spectacular. We can't even imagine the amount of skill and time these guys took to make this awesome instrumental cover happen. We wonder what Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee think about it? We bet they will love it as much as we do. Watch the video above - it'll send chills down your spine!
Jerry Seinfeld Explains That Cringeworthy Kesha Moment: "I Don't Hug a Total Stranger"
Jerry Seinfeld has a decent reason for rejecting Kesha's hug. Three days after a cringeworthy video of the comedian brushing off an embrace from the pop star went viral this week, Jerry explained the awkward encounter at an event in NYC. "I'm 63. I don't know every pop star. . . . I don't know everyone," he told Extra, confirming, "I'm not [a hugger]." He went on: "I was right in the middle of an interview; it was a little off. When you get to be my age and you've done a couple things, you have your own reality. In my reality, I don't hug a total stranger. I have to meet someone, say 'hello.'" "I gotta start somewhere . . . hug isn't first moment of a human, two humans. I never did that," he added.
On Monday night, the comedian attended The David Lynch Foundation's National Night of Laughter and Song event in Washington DC, and was in the middle of an interview with 94.7 Fresh FM when Kesha ran up to him and asked him for a hug. "I'm Kesha! I love you so much. Can I give you a hug?" she asked. Jerry looked a bit taken aback and responded, "No thanks," to which Kesha begged, "Please?" Still, Jerry didn't budge, but it was pretty clear from the clip that Jerry meant no ill intent; he simply just didn't know who Kesha was.
LAST NIGHT @KeshaRose found out @JerrySeinfeld is not a #Hugger -- Is it hard to be a non-hugger in 2017? http://pic.twitter.com/92OoMFCNkd
- Tommy McFLY (@TommyMcFLY) June 6, 2017
The Juiciest New Summer Beauty Trend Is Watermelon Makeup
Watermelon has always been one of our favorite warm-weather snacks, and now it's making its way into our Summer beauty routines. While some companies are seeking out the cooling properties of the ingredient, others are drawing it on their faces.
Allure first reported on this trend, and we were instantly obsessed by how creative beauty junkies are getting with this juicy theme. Some makeup mavens are simply painting their eyelids with a wash of pink and green, and others are using small brushes to paint seeds on their eyes and pout. While this might not be an everyday look, we can totally see this being an awesome festival beauty choice.
Read on to see the delicious looks.
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