Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
lundi 7 août 2017
Don't Get It Twisted: The Oldest University Was Founded by a Muslim Woman
Muslim women have been transforming society since, well, at least 12 centuries ago. Founded in 859, the University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco, is the world's oldest operating university - it was also endowed by a devout Muslim woman with her inheritance.
Fatima al-Fihri, who was Tunisian, donated the funds to open a mosque and madrasa (a school which teaches religious texts) in the mid ninth century, but the property was expanded to be a university by the tenth century. Now the stunning campus houses one of the world's oldest libraries, which was recently restored after being kept private for scholarly use for hundreds of years.
According an Associated Press report on the library's restoration, its collection of Islamic historical manuscripts is unparalleled. For example: al-Qarawiyyin's library includes a ninth century Quran written in ancient Kufic calligraphy.
"The manuscripts are now kept in a secure room, with strict temperature and humidity control," reported the AP in 2016 after the renovations were completed.
By 1947, the school was officially integrated into Morocco's public education system, and in 1967, it became the University of al-Karaouine. Though European schools are often credited with being the first universities, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization considers al-Karaouine a university since its original inception as a madrasa - making it the oldest in history.
So, in honor of Muslim women everywhere, let's attempt to make it abundantly clear who founded the first university: a Muslim woman in Morocco.
Ahead are some photos of the campus taken by users on Instagram.
Who's Still on Arya's Kill List on Game of Thrones?
Arya Stark is back in Westeros on Game of Thrones, and she's in full revenge mode. Now that she's picked up a few tricks from the time she spent at the House of Black and White, she's using them to avenge her family. After exacting revenge on the Freys for the Red Wedding, Arya is merrily on her way to kill the queen - well, after she stops over at Winterfell right quick. When she finally reunites with her family, she also mentions the kill list - which Sansa initially laughs at, but then realizes it's a legit thing when Three-Eyed-Raven Bran mentions it too.
Arya's Kill List, if you don't remember, is the list of people she started reciting a few seasons ago after losing almost her entire family at the hands of various villains. There were 11 names on the list originally, which the fiercest Stark girl has not forgotten (except to eliminate one). If you've forgotten who's on it and what they did, we're reminding you of that and whether they're still alive (fun fact: the list is slightly different in the book than on the TV show).
Ever Wonder How Wizards Used the Bathroom in Harry Potter? J.K. Rowling Has the Answer
As someone who is constantly rereading the Harry Potter series, I still have a lot of unanswered questions. What did the veil in the Department of Mysteries actually do? Just how annoying was it to be a Hogwarts student while Harry Potter went there? Never did I think about how wizards and witches used the bathroom to poop. However, J.K. Rowling thought otherwise and clarified the matter on Pottermore.
Spotted by Reddit user Moriar-T, the passage from Pottermore comes from the Chamber of Secrets section, where Rowling breaks down the poo situation. In it, Rowling explains that it wasn't until the 18th century that wizards "copied" Muggles and made better plumbing. How did they use the bathroom before this progress in plumbing? They just went whenever they had to go and "vanished the evidence." Yes, you read that right, and if you want to read the entire passage, just take a look at the screenshot below.
Well, there you go! Now we know that wizards and witches used to just use the bathroom when they needed to and used their magic to clean up. File this under things we might've not needed to know about our beloved Harry Potter universe.
8 Disturbing Bombshells From Leah Remini's Scientology Documentary Series
Image Source: Getty / Noam Galai
When you think of Scientology, a few people probably come to mind: Tom Cruise, John Travolta, and Leah Remini. While Cruise and Travolta are partly known for their unwavering devotion to the "church," Remini publicly split from Scientology in 2013. After having doubts about things the church was doing and questioning the church's leader, David Miscavige (which is apparently a big no-no), about the unknown whereabouts of his wife, the actress had had enough.
In addition to speaking out about her experiences with interviews and a book, Remini decided to dive even further into uncovering the church's corrupt reality with her A&E documentary series, Leah Remini: Scientology and the Aftermath. On the show, she travels around the country with Mike Rinder, Scientology's former senior executive and one of Miscavige's right-hand men, to talk to former church members about the horrors they allegedly endured over the years (the church denies all claims made in the show). See the biggest bombshells below, which include forced abortion and physical abuse. And you can look forward to more, since the show was renewed for a second season.
- The church's leader, David Miscavige, reportedly beats his staff. Several former church members have spoken out on the show about the physical abuse they endured at the hands of Miscavige (he's 5'1", by the way). All of the situations they described include the church leader's attitude changing at the drop of a hat and him punching, shoving, and choking them in front of other Scientology staff members. Whenever someone even looked like they were about to fight back, a group of Miscavige's men would swoop in and immediately remove that person from the building. One former church member, Jeff Hawkins, recalled that Miscavige looked at him after physically assaulting him and said, "Do you know why I did that? To remind you who's boss."
- Women in the Sea Org are reportedly forced to have abortions if they get pregnant. In the show's fifth episode, Remini sits down with Marc Headley, a former event coordinator and video producer for Scientology, and his wife, Claire, a former Sea Org member. While working in the Sea Org, a now-land-based organization of the church's most dedicated members that control management operations, and living at the church's international headquarters in Hemet, CA, Claire became pregnant with their first child. But since Claire alleges that Scientology thinks women in the Sea Org who get pregnant actively want to leave, she was forced to get an abortion. "If a woman got pregnant, she would instantly be scheduled to go and get an abortion," she said. "If she refused in any manner, she would be segregated, not allowed to speak with her husband, put under security watch, put on heavy manual labor, and interrogated for her crimes." Marc and Claire managed to narrowly escape the church (he says he was run off the road by church members in an SUV; she says she snuck out of Walmart and hopped on a bus), but that will never take away their pain. "I can go, 'Well, now I have three beautiful children who are my life,'" she continued. "But it doesn't make me feel better about not being strong enough to tell them to go f*ck themselves."
Image Source: Getty / Pierre-Philippe Marcou
- Despite escaping the church, some people are reportedly still tracked down and brought back. Claire and Marc also went into detail about the heavy security that Sea Org members are reportedly under when they live at the base in Hemet. In addition to security cameras being everywhere, their outgoing mail is always read before being sent, they are on strict meal schedules, and the fence that surrounds the property has large spikes on both sides, which prevents anyone from entering or leaving. Claire revealed that when her friend tried to escape, she fell in a ditch outside the property and was brought right back in by church members and put on heavy labor duty. She also said she knew one member who fled all the way to South Africa, where he was tracked down and brought back.
- Private investigators reportedly hired by Scientology followed Remini during the filming of the show. In the fifth episode of the show, Remini and Rinder are driving when they notice a suspicious-looking car close by. After signaling to the car several times that he can pass, he refuses. When they pull up next to him and ask him who he is, he says he works for TMZ, but suspiciously doesn't have a camera and quickly drives away. When they then pull into their hotel, two men are sitting in the lobby with their phones pointed at Remini's car. The hotel manager asks if they are guests, and they both quickly get up to leave. Rinder confronts them, they act like they don't know anything, and Remini later reveals that one of the men is a private investigator (oh, and the TMZ guy was driving the PI's wife's car).
- Church members will spend thousands of dollars trying to reach the highest level of spirituality in Scientology. Scientology was founded by a man named L. Ron Hubbard, who believed that you need to clear yourself of your "reactive mind" in order to advance up "the Bridge of Total Freedom." People do this through auditing sessions, where a Scientology auditor asks the person a series of questions while they hold two metal cans attached to a machine. The machine tells the auditor if the person is telling the truth, and in order to continue to grow spiritually, church members have to pay for expensive courses in order to improve. It also should be noted that Hubbard holds the Guinness World Record for most published works by one author (and they're mostly science fiction) . . .
- If you leave the church, you will most likely lose your entire family. If a member of the church speaks out against Scientology or decides to leave, they will be labeled a "suppressive person" (watch Tom Cruise talk about it at the 4:29 mark). If the rest of that person's family is still in the church, they will be pressured to disconnect from that person, which means cutting off all communication and essentially never seeing them again.
- David Miscavige reportedly told private investigators to let his father die. David's father, Ron, was the one who got his son involved in Scientology when he was a young boy. But after years in the church and being heavily monitored while living at the base in Hemet, Ron and his wife, Becky, decided to plan their escape. In episode four of the show, Ron told Remini that he knew he needed to get out after he walked by his son one day and decided to say hello. "Dave looked at me and I knew that I had done the wrong thing," he said. "By calling him Dave," Remini clarified, to which he replied, "Yes." After Ron and Becky finally escaped, his son hired private investigators to follow him, one of whom was brought in for questioning by police and revealed everything. According to Ron, the investigator told police that when they saw Ron have what appeared to be a heart attack (he was simply holding his cell phone in place in his chest pocket), they called David to see if they should intervene, but David replied, "If it's my father's time to die, let him die."
- Scientologists believe they have the cure for mental illness. In the show's season finale, Leah sat down with Brandon Reisdorf, a former church member who suffers from bipolar disorder. At the time of their interview, Brandon was in psychiatric care but his family agreed to let him tell his story. While Brandon said he's doing much better now that he's in the care of actual doctors, he detailed his horrific time in the church. After one of his mental breakdowns, the church decided to give him an "introspection rundown," or what they think is the cure for mental illness. It involves locking the person in a room until their "episode" passes, which they think means their body is rid of the illness for good. Scientologists are also well-known for hating psychology and thinking you can treat mental illness with vitamins and intense auditing sessions (as seen in this infamous Tom Cruise interview with Matt Lauer).
Who's Still on Arya's Kill List on Game of Thrones?
Arya Stark is back in Westeros on Game of Thrones, and she's in full revenge mode. Now that she's picked up a few tricks from the time she spent at the House of Black and White, she's using them to avenge her family. After exacting revenge on the Freys for the Red Wedding, Arya is merrily on her way to kill the queen - well, after she stops over at Winterfell right quick. When she finally reunites with her family, she also mentions the kill list - which Sansa initially laughs at, but then realizes it's a legit thing when Three-Eyed-Raven Bran mentions it too.
Arya's Kill List, if you don't remember, is the list of people she started reciting a few seasons ago after losing almost her entire family at the hands of various villains. There were 11 names on the list originally, which the fiercest Stark girl has not forgotten (except to eliminate one). If you've forgotten who's on it and what they did, we're reminding you of that and whether they're still alive (fun fact: the list is slightly different in the book than on the TV show).
Game of Thrones Costars Sophie Turner and Maisie Williams Are the Cutest BFFs
They play sisters on the small screen, but in real life, Game of Thrones stars Sophie Turner and Maisie Williams are adorable friends. Sophie and Maisie were 13 and 12 years old when the show first started filming, and they're now 21 and 20, respectively. In an interview with The New York Times, the actresses explained why their friendship is so special amid all the Game of Thrones madness, with Maisie saying, "Our other friends don't 100 percent get it. Sometimes it's nice to just be with the one person who does." The pair also revealed that they bonded in their first audition together; Sophie said, "I remember a lot of high-fives being thrown around that day, like 'Woo! Friendship!'"
They've continued to be the cutest pals ever since, hitting the red carpet together at Hollywood events and regularly taking to social media to share funny photos and videos of themselves. Keep reading to see some of their BFF moments, then check out the best reactions to their emotional season-seven reunion.
Once Upon a Time: Regina Reunites With Henry in New Photos, but There's a Catch
Once Upon a Time is undergoing a major reboot next season, but that doesn't mean it will be completely unrecognizable to fans. Even though some of our favorite characters won't be returning as regulars (don't worry, some are already slated for cameos), the show is still staying true to its main theme: hope. And that's not the only similarity it will have with past seasons.
As a new book is opened and new stories are told, Regina, Rumple, and Hook will face yet another curse as they are transported to Hyperion Heights in Seattle, WA. While the Comic-Con trailer dropped a few breadcrumbs about what's to come, we finally have a handful of season-seven photos to piece everything together.
We got the first look at Hook's new identity, Officer Rogers, in the season-seven trailer, and now we finally have the first look at Regina, or should we say, Roni? That's right, the former mayor of Storybrooke is now a jeans-wearing bar owner. "She's no longer in charge," actress Lana Parrilla revealed. "We've always seen Regina in charge, and then she redeemed herself, but this Regina is something else." Not only is Roni a little rough around the edges, but she also won't recognize Henry as her son, similar to when Emma unknowingly befriended her mom in season one. Can you hear our Regal Believer hearts breaking?
Don't worry though, Regina (and Hook) will have a reunion with adult Henry via flashbacks. As for Rumple, the creators are keeping a tight-lip on his cursed persona, but fans are theorizing he's playing a a bad detective named Crocker. We'll have to wait until Oct. 6 to know for sure, but until then, enjoy these season-seven photos.
What Donald Trump Has Wrong About Transgender Americans Like Me
The author and his wife.
When I was about 6 or 7, I remember praying to wake up and magically be a boy.
When I was 10, my mother pulled me out of school because she got a phone call telling her kids at school were calling me "gay." I didn't know what it meant.
When I was 17, I recall getting physically ill at the thought of wearing a dress under my graduation gown.
When I was 19, I finally found out what being transgender meant.
Up until that point, I had been under the impression that I was a lesbian who fell heavily on the butch side of things. I could dress the part and ignore the shouts of "Is that a boy or a girl?" while walking through my college campus. There was just no way I could magically become the boy I always wanted to be.
I wasn't a freak or a "burden," as the leader of our country likes to say.
But, wait. Being transgender is a thing? There's hope for me? I dove headfirst into the research and lives of other transgender individuals, seeing my own story reflected in their words. I wasn't a freak or a "burden," as the leader of our country likes to say. This was the validation I so needed.
When I was 24, I began hormone replacement therapy.
When I was 26, I got a double mastectomy to remove my breasts.
When I was 27, I finally got legal documentation that showed I am male.
That same year, it became quite clear that my entire being was under attack.
Upon looking at me, most people see me as male and I pass well enough. I'm a little on the scrawny side (and by a little I mean a lot) with patchy facial hair, but I haven't been misgendered in a few years. I do a lot of things cisgender males do, and I do a lot of things that cisgender males don't do because they don't want to jeopardize their masculinity. I work out, I spend time with my wife and our fur babies, I love my mom, and I've cried during every episode of This Is Us. I don't wear a badge that says I'm transgender, and I typically only bring it up if it's brought up in discussion.
I'm not contagious.
I'm not contagious. I'm not going to brainwash your children into wanting to start hormone treatment. I'm not going to warp your values if you come in contact with me. Honestly, I'm actually really boring. My idea of a great Friday night is spent on the couch with my wife playing video games and eating food that's extremely bad for me.
And, yeah. I've got a wife. She is a cisgender female. If anyone were to look at our wedding photos, they'd see a man and a woman getting married. Our dogs were the best man and flower girl. My parents were there and her entire extended family were there. My extended family is uncomfortable with my being trans, so most of them didn't respond to the wedding invite.
The author as a child.
Those in leadership positions within our country want to paint transgender people as being the enemy - almost as bad as those "fake news" outlets. They say we're not mentally fit, we're burdens and distractions - hell, we're not allowed to use the damn bathroom.
Donald Trump recently tweeted an announcement that sure sounds like he's reinstating the transgender ban in the military, something former President Barack Obama dismantled during his time in office. You know, Donald Trump? The same guy who championed how he'll be a better candidate for LGBTQ+ folks during his campaign? That guy.
You know what's crazy, though? The United States Armed Forces is currently the top employer of transgender individuals. These people are risking their lives to represent a country that wants to erase them from history. In fact, openly transgender individuals were supposed to be able to start enlisting in the military on July 1, but the heads of the military asked for a six-month extension so they can "review" a bit more.
But, no. Here we are again. Banned from serving our country. Banned from workplace protections. Banned from health insurances. Banned from bathrooms.
Do you know what transgender people do in the bathroom? We practice basic biological functions.
We've become a danger to society, the menaces lurking in the changing rooms at Target. We're being erased by the government and conservative religious folks. We're "unnatural," much like the medication you take, that breast job your neighbor had done, or 99 percent of the food you ingest.
Do you know a transgender person? Is your kid transgender? Your coworker? Your neighbor? Maybe you should introduce yourself to a transgender individual. Ask them (polite and noninvasive) questions. Get to know them.
We're not that exciting. I mean, all we want is a dog to pet, a place to pee, and the right to live our lives as our true selves. Pretty much the same thing you want and have.
We're not burdens. We're not mentally unfit.
We're people.
And you'll probably like us. I mean, I'd invite you over for video games, puppy cuddles, and really good food. What's not to like about that in a friend?
Dr. Harvey Karp Thinks He Knows What May Lead to Autism in Some Children
In the years since the link between autism and vaccines was proven to be based on fraudulent data, study after study has proven that vaccines are not to blame for autism spectrum disorders. But what they haven't done is explain what does cause the disorders and why the number of children diagnosed each year is skyrocketing.
At a Healthy Child Healthy World and Environmental Working Group luncheon designed to raise awareness about pollutants in our food and environment, Dr. Harvey Karp - the pediatrician probably best known for his wildly popular The Happiest Baby series of parenting guides - turned to the topic on many parents minds and addressed concerns about autism.
He said:
"Something has changed and we all know about all this discussion about immunizations and is it mercury in immunizations, all this kind of stuff. Doesn't seem so. Lots of studies [are] being done now, as much as you can know something in science, [and] we know that immunizations are really good and they're not associated with autism.
So the question is: well then what is going on? And there's two explanations currently. One is that we're just calling things autism that we didn't used to call autism - there's a shift in diagnosis. That clearly has happened; it might be attributed, maybe, to half of the cases. But, it seems that there's another half of cases that never existed before, that are new and that shouldn't be happening. And so, we have to ask ourselves why.
And one theory, is it's an exposure to a certain class of chemicals that are called endocrine disrupting chemicals . . . It turns out that there are many different types of chemicals that are endocrine disrupting chemicals that are in plasticized plastic. You've heard of BPA, that's an endocrine disrupting chemical. BPA was first created to be an estrogen. Then they found they could put it into plastics. Every single one of you have BPA in your bodies just from all the exposure you have. You have phthalates, which are plastic parts, as well which are in every new car...things like that. All of those have a hormonal effect and there are dozens of others; all different classes. The weird thing is that hormones are signalers, they tell cells 'Do this, don't do that' and what can happen is these hormonally active chemicals make it into the brains of young babies or even before birth and shift the brain's development.
The reason I think that this could be related to autism is because it's something that isn't split evenly between boys and girls. Boys get more autism, boys get 4 times more autism, they're diagnosed 9 times more with Asperger's Syndrome. So it could be that if we just pushed it a little bit further, that may be the reason that we're seeing this increase. I don't know the answer, but I do know that we have to find the answer. Scientists are looking for that now, but we need to do more research on it."
So just what is BPA and why did it seep into our kids' brains?
According to the EWG, it was invented 120 years ago and was most recently used to manufacture hard plastic water bottles, baby bottles, and epoxy linings of metal food cans. "BPA can mimic the hormone estrogen in the body and disrupt the endocrine system, a danger to developing humans and animals." In 2009, studies showing that BPA was leaching out of baby bottles and infant formula cans and into humans pressured leading bottle manufacturers to stop using the chemicals in their manufacturing processes, and over the next year, most states banned the use of BPA in children's products, but it is still used in many canned foods. But according to Dr. Karp, BPA's replacement, BPS, may be just as dangerous. A recent study shows that "in utero exposure to BPS might lead to neurodevelopmental disorders later in life" and "that male hormones might be particularly disturbed by this abnormal cell development."
So what's a parent to do?
BPS is not clearly marked on products and can actually be found in BPA-free products. According to The Soft Landing, parents will want to:
- Steer clear of any plastic containers marked with #7. These BPA-free products appear to be made with BPS.
- Eat as many fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables as possible. Cans used for canned fruits and veggies can be lined in BPA and BPS.
- Choose silicone storage products. They're BPA and BPS free.
- Sign up for EWG's alerts that will keep you up to date on all the latest studies and findings.
If You're Not Using This Site Before You Fly, You're Truly Missing Out
Image Source: StockSnap / Brian Gaid
You're crammed into the middle seat of a row that's nearest to the bathrooms. Your knees are grazing the seat in front of you. You hear each flush. You have six hours left on this flight. You should've used SeatGuru before you booked your trip.
SeatGuru is a site (and app) that will change air travel as you know it. Let it be your guide, and you'll hack your way into the best seats on board the plane. The site allows users to view seat maps of flights by plugging in the airline, flight number, and date of travel. Travelers can review specific seats based on their personal experiences, allowing future passengers the chance to evaluate costs vs. comfort, prime seat locations, seats with features that people find desirable/undesirable, and more. SeatGuru even has a "seat map key" that color codes seats based on the reviews.
If a seat is labeled yellow, that's an indication that you should check out the comments in order to see what passengers have noted about it. "Bad seats" are labeled in red, "good seats" in green, and those with "mixed reviews" are green and yellow. The seat map also let's you know if your potential seat has a power outlet, is near restrooms, and more.
In addition to giving travelers seat-specific reviews, SeatGuru also provides extremely useful details about the airline, such as check-in policies, baggage rules and restrictions, pet policies, how many seats are on the plane, and what type of airbus you'll be flying. What's more, you're able to check out the seat pitch of that particular plane in order to determine how much legroom you can expect based on what seat you choose in what part of the plane.
The site also has extensive comparison charts of nearly every airline imaginable, where you can see seat pitches and widths, whether there are individual TVs, power outlets, Wifi, and more. You can also actually book your flight through SeatGuru, so once you find out everything you need to know about your plane, you don't even have to navigate away in order to move on to the next step of planning your trip.
If you're a frequent flier, you know that finding the perfect seat is an art form, and you also know that it isn't always cheap. Browsing SeatGuru will change all of that! And best of all, you can read through hundreds of hilarious comments and reviews from customers who have quite a lot to say about some of their air travel experiences.
Once Upon a Time: Regina Reunites With Henry in New Photos, but There's a Catch
Once Upon a Time is undergoing a major reboot next season, but that doesn't mean it will be completely unrecognizable to fans. Even though some of our favorite characters won't be returning as regulars (don't worry, some are already slated for cameos), the show is still staying true to its main theme: hope. And that's not the only similarity it will have with past seasons.
As a new book is opened and new stories are told, Regina, Rumple, and Hook will face yet another curse as they are transported to Hyperion Heights in Seattle, WA. While the Comic-Con trailer dropped a few breadcrumbs about what's to come, we finally have a handful of season-seven photos to piece everything together.
We got the first look at Hook's new identity, Officer Rogers, in the season-seven trailer, and now we finally have the first look at Regina, or should we say, Roni? That's right, the former mayor of Storybrooke is now a jeans-wearing bar owner. "She's no longer in charge," actress Lana Parrilla revealed. "We've always seen Regina in charge, and then she redeemed herself, but this Regina is something else." Not only is Roni a little rough around the edges, but she also won't recognize Henry as her son, similar to when Emma unknowingly befriended her mom in season one. Can you hear our Regal Believer hearts breaking?
Don't worry though, Regina (and Hook) will have a reunion with adult Henry via flashbacks. As for Rumple, the creators are keeping a tight-lip on his cursed persona, but fans are theorizing he's playing a a bad detective named Crocker. We'll have to wait until Oct. 6 to know for sure, but until then, enjoy these season-seven photos.
This Season 1 Quote From Robert Baratheon Eerily Foreshadowed That Epic Dothraki Battle
Warning: spoilers for Game of Thrones below!
A lot of lives might have been spared during the epic, climactic battle at the end of fourth episode of Game of Thrones season seven, "The Spoils of War," if only the Lannisters had taken some advice from Robert Baratheon to heart.
The late King of the Seven Kingdoms might have been a pretty terrible ruler, but there's no denying that he was an incredibly savvy commander. He proves how perceptive he is in terms of battle strategy in season one during a conversation with then-wife Cersei, who is unconvinced that Daenerys Targaryen or the Dothraki pose a threat to King's Landing. Robert goes on to explain exactly how the invaders could take the Iron Throne, and one line he utters in particular eerily foreshadows the battle Jaime and the Lannister forces lose against Daenarys and the Dothraki in "The Spoils of War," as pointed out by Reddit user Execute-Order-66.
"I do know this: If the Targaryen girl convinces her horselord husband to invade and the Dothraki horde crosses the Narrow Sea . . . we won't be able to stop them," he says. "Let's say Viserys Targaryen lands with 40,000 Dothraki screamers at his back. We hole up in our castles. A wise move. Only a fool would meet the Dothraki in an open field."
[MAIN SPOILERS] Even in death, Robert's advice lives on from gameofthrones
Cersei tries to counter by pointing out the widespread Westerosi belief that "the Dothraki don't sail" (which we now know to be false), and Robert further lays out a possible battle plan for the Targaryens/Dothraki. "They leave us in our castles. They go from town to town, looting and burning, killing every man who can't hide behind a stone wall, stealing all our crops and livestock, enslaving all our women and children," he says. "How long do the people of the Seven Kingdoms stand behind their absentee king, their cowardly king hiding behind high walls? When do the people decide that Viserys Targaryen is the rightful monarch after all?"
Not only does Robert's sage advice potentially foreshadow how Dany's Dothraki and Unsullied armies might sweep through King's Landing and take the Iron Throne, but it also reiterates how far Cersei has strayed from her late-husband's warning that "one army, a real army, united behind one leader with one purpose" is stronger than five. She shows time and time again that she's willing to do anything to remain in power, even if that means filling the people of Westeros with fear rather than a sense of unity.
Robert might be dead, but clearly his words still ring true.
This Season 1 Quote From Robert Baratheon Eerily Foreshadowed That Epic Dothraki Battle
Warning: spoilers for Game of Thrones below!
A lot of lives might have been spared during the epic, climactic battle at the end of fourth episode of Game of Thrones season seven, "The Spoils of War," if only the Lannisters had taken some advice from Robert Baratheon to heart.
The late King of the Seven Kingdoms might have been a pretty terrible ruler, but there's no denying that he was an incredibly savvy commander. He proves how perceptive he is in terms of battle strategy in season one during a conversation with then-wife Cersei, who is unconvinced that Daenerys Targaryen or the Dothraki pose a threat to King's Landing. Robert goes on to explain exactly how the invaders could take the Iron Throne, and one line he utters in particular eerily foreshadows the battle Jaime and the Lannister forces lose against Daenarys and the Dothraki in "The Spoils of War," as pointed out by Reddit user Execute-Order-66.
"I do know this: If the Targaryen girl convinces her horselord husband to invade and the Dothraki horde crosses the Narrow Sea . . . we won't be able to stop them," he says. "Let's say Viserys Targaryen lands with 40,000 Dothraki screamers at his back. We hole up in our castles. A wise move. Only a fool would meet the Dothraki in an open field."
[MAIN SPOILERS] Even in death, Robert's advice lives on from gameofthrones
Cersei tries to counter by pointing out the widespread Westerosi belief that "the Dothraki don't sail" (which we now know to be false), and Robert further lays out a possible battle plan for the Targaryens/Dothraki. "They leave us in our castles. They go from town to town, looting and burning, killing every man who can't hide behind a stone wall, stealing all our crops and livestock, enslaving all our women and children," he says. "How long do the people of the Seven Kingdoms stand behind their absentee king, their cowardly king hiding behind high walls? When do the people decide that Viserys Targaryen is the rightful monarch after all?"
Not only does Robert's sage advice potentially foreshadow how Dany's Dothraki and Unsullied armies might sweep through King's Landing and take the Iron Throne, but it also reiterates how far Cersei has strayed from her late-husband's warning that "one army, a real army, united behind one leader with one purpose" is stronger than five. She shows time and time again that she's willing to do anything to remain in power, even if that means filling the people of Westeros with fear rather than a sense of unity.
Robert might be dead, but clearly his words still ring true.
Clean your water bottle: study finds bacteria in water storage containers
Researchers studying higher rates of gastrointestinal illness in Inuit communities have a message for all Canadians: wash your water bottles and storage containers.
Disneyland's Red Rose Taverne Is a Must-See For Beauty and the Beast Fans!
The Pinocchio-themed Village Haus Restaurant at Disneyland is out - and Red Rose Taverne is in! Anyone looking for food with a French flair and adorable nods to one of your favorite movies, the Beauty and the Beast-inspired restaurant is the place to visit. Temporarily located in Fantasyland, Red Rose Taverne has a fun menu, adorable decor, and countless photo opportunities for fans.
There's also a gift store where guests can buy special souvenirs like a tumbler with the enchanted rose inside. And of course, you can sample the famous Grey Stuff Belle tries when she arrives at the Beast's castle during the "Be Our Guest" scene. Take a look at what you'll find at the Taverne!
Queen Letizia Wore the 1 Pair of Shoes You Need to Dress Up Any White Summer Dress
Even on vacation, Queen Letizia knows how to dress up and leave everyone wishing they had her wardrobe. The Spanish royal and her family are currently staying on the island of Mallorca in Spain and stepped out for another photo op in the town of Sóller.
Letizia wore a sleeveless shift dress by the Spanish designer Adolfo Domínguez, but what we couldn't take our eyes off of were the sandals she paired with her simple yet chic dress. The queen wore a pair of rhinestone-encrusted sandals, adding the perfect amount of bling and fun from one of her favorite designers, Uterqüe. She finished it all off with her Chanel Comete earrings, a statement straw bag, and black sunglasses, looking stylish and comfortable at the same time.
I Hated Underwire Bras - Until I Found the 1 That Changed Everything
As a pretty full B cup, I viewed underwire bras as a necessary evil. I never loved the way they felt, but - if I'm being honest - didn't like the way the girls looked without one. I'd found bras that did the job all right and I got through the day, but I religiously broke into a happy dance at home when I could finally throw the bra across the room and just be free, much like Gwyneth Paltrow unwrapping the binding in that famous Shakespeare in Love scene. I figured that's what most women did, quietly suffered through, secretly tugging at the underwire that was digging into their rib cage, and counting down the hours till they could free the nipple too.
I'm in fashion and I'm generally pretty resourceful - I should have known better, done my research, and found another option. Fortunately, in this business, sometimes the best things come to you; that's how I serendipitously met the bra that changed everything. When a little-known brand claiming to revolutionize the bra industry reached out in 2014, I was all ears. ThirdLove was launching fit technology that promised to give you the right bra size once and for all. OK, that's a step in the right direction, I thought. I remember being amazed by the iPhone app and the testing they had done with tons of women to answer fit questions and complications we all face (and apparently just deal with). Still, what's stuck with me three years after meeting the brand is the sample they left me.
I wear it religiously (and finally bought more of my own) - the The 24/7 Classic T-Shirt Bra ($68). And here's the kicker: I'm wearing it at home - when I don't even "have to" (mostly because I forget I have it on). It somehow cushions, cradles, and keeps everything lifted like a dream. It doesn't push things up, just keeps them, you know, right where you'd want them; and it looks seamless under everything from a fitted white t-shirt to a sheer black dress. It's the only bra I've ever forgotten that I'm wearing, until I glance in the mirror and see everything pleasantly perky.
I've worn the sh*t out of this bra with no shame. I've worn it for weeks at a time without washing (gross, I know), simply because it's the single most comfortable piece of underwear I own. I've worn it on long flights without waking up three hours in and cursing the band digging into my ribcage like a fishhook; worn it on the dance floor at weddings while jumping up and down like an idiot to "Shout"; and barely noticed I have it on when I lay down for an impromptu afternoon nap. Like the best kind of friend - or the mother-in-law you wish you had - it supports, never smothers. Now, tell me that's not the dream, then make it a reality and get your own.
How to Master a 10-Step Korean Skin Care Routine in Under 15 Minutes
When I introduced the Korean 10-step skin care routine for the very first time in 2014, the reaction was unexpectedly positive. I say "unexpectedly" because, sure, I was obsessed with the results I got from a multistep regimen, but I wasn't sure if others would be as into it as I was (thankfully, they were).
Since then, a lot's changed for me and my face. My skin care needs are different (hello, 30s and hormonal acne!), and a whole slew of new products have come on the market. Naturally, my skin care routine has changed too. Here's an updated, two-years-in take on my own Korean 10-step routine.
40+ Gossip Girl Hair Moments That Made You Jealous
Though Gossip Girl has been off the air for more than five years (OMG!), it's still totally capable of inspiring serious beauty and fashion envy. Whether you drool over sharp-witted socialite Blair Waldorf's neat curls or covet Serena van der Woodsen's golden mane of beachy waves, you're sure to recall some awe-inspiring hairstyle moments from the show's six-season run. From Blair's first headband to the one she wore on her (second) wedding day, these hairstyle photos will make you fall in love with Gossip Girl all over again. Spotted: S, B, Little J, and a few other elite Manhattanites looking fabulous.
"Hair Dusting" Is the Easiest Way to Achieve Healthier Strands Without Sacrificing Length
If you struggle to grow out your hair, you likely often have to face a difficult decision: keep the length you've been working so hard to achieve, or sacrifice it in favor of hair health. But according to Refinery29, a technique called "hair dusting" will allow you to keep your mane long and healthy.
Los Angeles stylist Sal Salcedo explained that the method consists of slicing off the very tips off your strands (where the damage is). "Think of it in terms of removing fuzz from clothes," he told Refinery29. "You want to smooth the hair out the best you can first, because you need to allow the bad hair to pop up."
It's by no means a new technique. In fact, it's quite similar to velaterapia, which uses an open flame to singe off split ends (but is definitely safer, obviously). The only reason you've not experienced hair dusting yourself is because it's a time-consuming process that's more about grooming than an actual cut. See for yourself when you read on.
15 Chic, Protective Hairstyle Ideas to Rock All Summer 2017
As a lazy natural, protective styles have saved me time and time again. Whether it's a wig, bun, or braids, protective styling has changed the health of my hair and also made other people think that I have my sh*t together. Not only has it been proven to help your hair grow, it also gives you a much-needed break from the endless cycle of wash-and-gos. Summer is perfect for protective styling, and luckily Instagram has endless inspo to choose from.
Protective styling is any style that keeps your ends tucked away, which reduces the damage to natural hair from daily manipulation and/or heat. Try any of these styles for Summer 2017, and don't blame us if people burst into flames around you because you're fire.
10 Quintessentially American Dishes
It's pretty hard to beat a steaming spread of dim sum, a charred Neapolitan pizza, or perfectly caramelized tarte tatin, but sometimes an all-American feast is what'll satisfy best. We've rounded up 10 quintessentially American dishes that can be mixed and matched (or cooked à la carte) the next time you're craving classic eats from our fine nation.
You'll Want to Book a Vacation Immediately After Watching Lorde's New Music Video
If you've been looking for a reason to go on a solo vacation, Lorde's music video for "Perfect Places" might do the trick. The 20-year-old singer's follow-up to her "Green Light" video is directed by Grant Singer and full of lush, tropical scenery, which Lorde enjoys while wearing some seriously gorgeous couture dresses (the whole video is like one big, beautiful runway show, to be honest). "Perfect Places" is the latest single off of her successful sophomore album, Melodrama, and after watching the video we're completely convinced that we need to casually float in a lagoon in a ballgown ASAP. Check it out above.
This Woman Who Uses Meat to Show Off Her Manicure Is All of Us Fronting on the 'Gram
Instagram fame is a tough business, and it can be hard for aspiring influencers to find their niche. Luckily for Alina Marie (Twitter handle: "queen of extra"), her contribution to the beauty-blogging landscape will go down in history. Back in January, Alina posted a picture matching her fresh pale pink manicure to a few slices of deli meat. A legend was born.
Because true art is timeless, months later, people still can't stop showing off their manicures with household items. We've written many times before about "relatable" beauty icons, but we have to admit that we've never seen ourselves more clearly than looking at the woman who matches her soft lavender mani to her purple Lysol bottle. This woman is all of us, postnail appointment, frantically looking around for something cute to 'gram our gels with.
Turns out, you don't need to pose with your polish container (so 2016!) or throw on tons of bling. You can grab the absolute first thing you see - even if that happens to be bacon bits or a literal trash bag. Live your truth! They laughed at Picasso, too.
We feel absolutely liberated by these manicure pairings, so read on for our favorites. It really doesn't get better than the person who placed their tangerine nails under a gushing stream of orange soda. OK, well maybe this trend could improve - but only if dogs were doing it.
6 Surprising Realities of Meeting Chip and Joanna Gaines in Person
I recently lived the ultimate HGTV fan fantasy: I traveled to Waco, TX, to meet Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna Gaines. In fact, I didn't just meet them: I got to spend an entire morning with them. My intimate introduction was part of a press trip for the couple's Magnolia Home paint collection, which just launched a farmhouse-fabulous chalk paint line. I gathered with about another dozen-plus journalists to learn about the collection from Joanna, get painting tips from Chip, and spend a little time just getting to know the reality TV stars better.
I was thrilled to meet these homegrown superstars in person but also frankly a little bit nervous. Their on-camera personas are so down-to-earth and relatable that I fell in love with them over my television set. What if they didn't live up to my high expectations? Worse, what if instead of being down-to-earth and affable they were snotty and affected? I would be heartbroken. I headed into my meeting with the Gaineses concerned that my idealistic vision of them was in jeopardy, but I left completely smitten. Keep reading to see what Chip and Joanna Gaines are like in real life.
Joanna Is Really, Really Pretty
Yes, anyone who watches the show can tell that they're an attractive couple. But I can tell you that as beautiful as Joanna is on TV, she's even prettier in person. If I were Regina George and she were Cady Heron, I would ask her to sit with us at lunch. Her skin is flawless (I got a close-up look, and I could not spot a single wrinkle on the 38-year-old mother-of-four's face). Her black tresses tumble down her back Rapunzel-like, the ends twisting into soft, effortless curls. We met at 8:30 a.m., and there was no glam squad on site contouring Joanna's cheekbones or carefully coiffing her hair. She's just naturally gorgeous. If I didn't love her, I would hate her.
What You See Is What You Get
One of my biggest worries about meeting Chip and Joanna in person was that Chip's goofy persona or the couple's playfully romantic antics on television would turn out to be a phony act put on for the camera. I saw no evidence of this. True to HGTV form, Chip was full of silly jokes, Joanna was there to play the straight man keeping him in check, and neither seemed to take themselves too seriously. They sat side by side on a sofa during our interview, and I watched as several times they mindlessly removed a piece of lint or strand of hair from each other's shirts. Could they be putting it on for the reporters? Sure, but I was there, and it didn't feel that way.
They Know Their Stuff
Going into this press trip, I assumed that this was a paint collection Joanna had thrown her name on and was obligated to promote. I couldn't have been more wrong. As I came to learn, this paint collection was crafted by Joanna down to the last detail. It's the result of her years of experience designing homes combined with her now-famous personal farmhouse aesthetic. She made decisions from the number of color options (she capped it at 150 great colors because any more makes the color selection process too overwhelming) to the paint can itself (she insisted the manufacturer, who normally packages paint in plastic containers, design a brand-new vintage-style tin paint can that looks attractive just sitting on the shelf). And Chip's demo mastery was equally as apparent as he discussed past projects and shared his pro painting tips. The Gaineses are not wannabe reality stars who picked up house flipping to get on TV. They're talented home pros who were thrust into the spotlight.
They're Surprisingly Tall - but Not Larger Than Life
I'm a respectable 5'7", so when someone is much taller than me, I notice it. I had to look up at Chip, who stands well above 6 feet. And in her signature boots, Joanna had a couple inches on me. But outside of being taller than average, the couple was very low-key. There was no big entourage, scene when they made their big reveal, or back room where they hid away. They were milling around and approachable, genuinely invested in the success of the paint presentation, wanting it to be a great experience for the reporters.
They're Savvy Business People
With their humble attitude and homegrown persona, it's easy to forget that Chip and Joanna are smart cookies. They'll tell you hard work is the secret to their success, but after listening to them talk about what they do and how they do it, I can tell you that business savvy played a big role as well. They've maximized their complementary design and construction skill sets, thoughtfully but aggressively pursued business endeavors, and surrounded themselves with a strong local team. They're pros in the best sense of the word, and it shows.
They're Grounded and Appreciative
At a certain level of fame, it would be all too easy to feel entitled and treat others as if you're doing them a favor just by being in their presence. That is not how Chip and Joanna are. They went out of their way multiple times to tell me how much they love POPSUGAR and how appreciative they are of our coverage of them, citing specific examples like a Facebook Live video we did together. And they weren't just kind to me; they made everyone feel special. They started off the session by going around the group and asking all the writers to introduce themselves. They listened, unhurried, and found a commonality to connect with every single person in the group on, be it Chip telling an anecdote about the city a reporter was from or Joanna noting a great story their outlet had written. Their behavior went beyond just being nice and professional - they were kind. When asked how they stay so humble, they responded that their strong faith keeps them firmly grounded.
Travel and expenses for the author were provided by KILZ for the purpose of writing this story.
This Adorable Home From Season 4 of Fixer Upper Is For Sale
The show Fixer Upper has created a renewed interest in the Waco area of Texas. People are fantasizing about - and in many cases actually acting on - moving to the sleepy Texas city and its suburbs. If you're one of those people, you might get to turn your daydream into a reality: the Plain Gray Ranch from season four of the hit HGTV show has just hit the market, which means this is your chance to own a home that Chip and Joanna actually designed!
The 1,750-square-foot home has three bedrooms and two baths, and features Joanna's go-to open-concept floor plan for the living, dining, and kitchen area. Exposed wood beams and a light and airy kitchen remind you that you're in a Magnolia home. The dining table's custom-made bench seat backs up to the kitchen island. A charming fireplace anchors the living room while double french doors lead outside to the deck and sprawling backyard. The home is located in the Waco suburb of Woodway and is being sold for $310,000 by Jake Russell of Magnolia Realty. Take a look at this charmer ahead.
Is It Possible to Give Back in a Meaningful Way While Traveling?
The idea of a vacation as we know it is "outdated," says Amy Merrill, cofounder of impact-driven travel company Journey. The majority female-founded company creates experiences that aim to "transform both the communities [people] visit and the travelers they engage."
The company has taken around 450 people on "Journeys" in the past 18 months, visiting eight countries and raising $450,000 for schools, homes, refugee relief work, and women's collectives and working with big brands like Red Bull and others to make it happen. The concept is simple: travelers visit another country with the intention of working on a project - such as building homes and renovating schools - in the community they are visiting.
"Our generation is not looking for the old model: to sit on a beach, drink beers and eat buffet, and come home with a sunburn and hangover," Merrill said. "We are looking for inspiration, enrichment, adventure, meaning and purpose, and great people to share it with. Plus, studies show this is actually what recharges you and gives you more fuel for your life."
"Our generation is not looking for the old model: to sit on a beach, drink beers and eat buffet, and come home with a sunburn and hangover."
The company challenges people to "travel with a purpose," but there's a fine line between "voluntourism" and making an actual lasting impact on the communities travelers are visiting. Journey - whose founders have extensive backgrounds in nonprofit organizations and international development work - are very conscious of that fine line.
"We take impact seriously and are very aware of the flaws in voluntourism and 'poverty safaris,'" Merrill said. "We always partner with nonprofits who have a deep local presence, typically local offices and experts who guide the strategy and implementation of each project. This means it can be a true win-win, because then a) the project is necessary and appropriate for the community's needs, b) every project is sustainable and monitored for the long term, and c) travelers learn more because they are truly immersed in local culture, with its challenges and opportunities."
How does Journey work?
Travelers sign up for a six-day trip to one of the locations that is listed as an option (and is open) on the company's site. There are 30-50 people per trip - the average age of a traveler is between 26-40. Trips combine an element of volunteer work with days travelers also have to tour the area, go on excursions, and engage with the community they are visiting. Currently, the majority of trips are to Central America.
Journey has two main projects: home builds (with Techo) and school renovations (with Glasswing International). "Home builds involve local volunteers and families coming together over the course of two days to erect transitional homes from kits, using mainly basic hand tools," Merrill said. "It's extremely challenging, rewarding work and involves a beautiful interchange of local families (who live in extreme poverty), volunteer college students, and Journeyers coming together as one and seeing one another as human beings."
School renovations take a day and a half of work, with the goal to make the building "a healthier, happier place for kids to learn."
How involved is the local community?
"We source projects through our nonprofit partners, which we've vetted and selected carefully on a variety of criteria: track record, innovative approach, tangible projects where we can get hands-on involved, commitment to sustainable/responsible approach," Merrill said. "I take our impact seriously, after spending 10+ years in the nonprofit world.
"We never execute a project without local experts and partners, because we always need to ensure the project is most needed, expertly implemented, and long-term sustainable. On the ground, we let our partners lead those two days - we are in their hands, they line up volunteers and local supplies, and they teach us about the region, the need, and the opportunity for lasting change."
What is special about Journey and social impact travel like it?
For Journey, the social impact projects are "the main event" and, most importantly, are sustainable projects that are implemented with local partners. And according to those who've experienced these trips firsthand, what makes this type of travel stand out are the people involved.
"Beginning a trip with impact work is not only good for the world and increases understanding and empathy, but it's a canvas for relationships, personal growth, everything that comes after on a group trip. There's a bond that comes through going through a challenging yet rewarding experience together . . . the point of a Journey is to present more questions than answers as you immerse yourself in a new culture, understand a community's needs firsthand, experience how you show up in the face of challenges and opportunities, and gain new perspectives on the world and your place in it."
Why This Expecting Mother Photoshopped Her Husband Into Her Maternity Shoot Will Make You Sob
Shanna Logan, a photographer from Pennsylvania, got the chance to work on a touching project when she was asked to photoshop a woman's late husband into her maternity shoot. Logan was moved by the results, which are both gorgeous and devastating at the same time.
"Amanda Snyder lost her husband, Jesse Wayne Snyder, who passed while she was pregnant with their son," wrote Logan. "She was in the middle of moving, big life changes, and about to deliver her precious baby boy very soon. We did the shoot in remembrance of him."
Although Snyder was completely blindsided by her husband's death, she decided to celebrate her first pregnancy as if he was right by her side all along.
"Amanda, you are strong, amazing, and you're going to be the best momma to that little boy," said Logan. "Jesse will always be watching over you and be by you and your son's side."
After Running For 15 Years, I Made This Change and Finally Lost Weight
I started running after college to lose that freshman 40 I was holding onto. I learned a lot along the way, like what socks prevent blisters and how to shop for a sports bra so you don't have to wear two. But what I struggled with was losing weight, specifically belly fat. And after 15 years of running and experiencing two pregnancies, that still-pudgy pooch - although a sweet reminder that I was my kids' first home - was always the thing I pinched and poked when standing in front of a mirror.
So I signed up for a half marathon. I was convinced that all those training runs would surely slim my middle, but when I stepped on the scale, I was completely wrong. I was gaining weight because the hunger that came with those long workouts made me want to eat all the time. After the race, although I made some changes to my eating schedule to lose the weight I'd gained during training, my squishy belly wasn't budging, and it pissed me off. It wasn't like I was going to run more often or for longer distances. It was quite by accident that I figured out how running could help me ditch my mummy tummy.
One morning, I skipped the hour-long flat road run and turned into the woods near my house. I let my dog, Reuben, off leash, and we just started running. My pace was much slower because the terrain was so unpredictable. Rain had eroded away the path, creating holes, plus the slippery wooden bridges, the rocks and logs to leap over, and the hills - man, were there hills! I was huffing and puffing way more than on my previous runs, and my quads, calves, and butt were burning. I had to swing my arms more to get up those steep inclines, and trying to catch up to my dog added a little fire to my step. At the end of my 20-minute run, I felt like I did after running one hour.
After just two weeks of running those trails and those crazy hills, I felt an incredible sense of strength in my legs I hadn't experienced before in the 12 weeks I was training for the half. In the obstacle course that is the woods, my muscles were constantly guessing, since running in the woods is completely different than running on a sidewalk or a treadmill. It's like a dance because there's no monotony of movement. Every step is a little different, a little shift to one side or the other, a little shorter or longer than the one before.
Interval training had always seemed so forced when running through my neighborhood: I felt a little weird sprinting past my neighbor's house, so I skipped them and just stuck to my 9:00/9:30 minute-per-mile pace. But the hills forced me to switch up my pace, and I knew this type of training would be the key to ditching my tummy. Running this way was also really challenging to my mind. I felt a complete sense of calm afterward that I wasn't able to get to unless I did a long training run. Instant runner's high in just 20 minutes? I was floored.
And the added perk? My belly looked slimmer. I could see definition in my obliques - I had obliques! By no means am I saying I have a six-pack after a month of running in the woods, but I see now that I was pushing myself in the wrong way. I was working harder, not smarter. If you're struggling with a weight-loss plateau from running, the answer for you, too, might be found in the woods.
Take Off For Zahramay Falls With These Shimmer and Shine Party Ideas
Aside from starring in their own hit Nickelodeon show, Shimmer and Shine are a pair of twin genies-in-training who help make the world a little more magical. Coupled with their too-cute pet monkey and tiger, the girls use their magic to solve problems with their friends. With their peppy personalities, it's easy to see why so many children around the world adore this series. Make your Shimmer and Shine fan's birthday special with these spectacular party ideas.
We Are Obsessing Over These Topshop Jeans - and They're All Under $80
Denim is the type of closet staple that's always there for you. Whether you're going to a romantic dinner or just meeting friends for a rooftop brunch, jeans are versatile and can easily be styled to suit your needs. Wear them with flat mules for something casual, or cuff the bottoms and slip on sky-high heels. Since you can never acquire too many, we turned to Topshop to see what they had for the season. Up ahead, see our favorite picks - all under $80.
John Oliver Explains Why Stephen Miller Is the "Minion" Donald Trump Deserves
On the Aug. 6 edition of Last Week Tonight, John Oliver did exactly what we hoped he'd do: lambaste White House aide Stephen Miller's recent viral comments about the administration's new immigration bill. Following President Donald Trump's announcement last week about introducing an immigration bill called the RAISE Act, the senior policy adviser to the president held a contentious press briefing at which he inaccurately claimed that immigrants must speak English to be naturalized. As you can imagine, Oliver had some choice words for him.
After referring to Miller as a "vitamin D-deficient Minion," Oliver moved away from the man and on to the controversial press briefing itself. "That clearly wasn't the greatest piece of communication from Stephen Miller, so naturally, the White House is now considering him for the communications director job, taking over from the dearly departed Mooch." Oliver added, "That would be a lot of responsibility for Stephen Miller, a man who is - this may be the most shocking thing you learn tonight - 31 years old. He's 31 human years old."
The icing on the cake? Oliver dug up a 2002 video of Miller campaigning for student government as a young high school student. In it, we witness a speech in which Miller is simply yelling about having to clean up after himself and pick up his own trash when there are "plenty of janitors who are paid to do it for us."
The video brought Oliver to his final point: perhaps the Trump administration has found a perfect minion, at long last. Oliver compounded the sentiment, saying, "He is truly one of the most revolting humans - parenthesis Minions - I have ever seen." Adding, "In a way, there is no more fitting spokesman for the Trump administration than an entitled, elitist assh*le who refuses to take responsibility for the messes he makes and who can somehow manage to pick a fight with a f*cking statue."
5 Reasons You Should Skip Rome and Head to Sperlonga, Italy, Instead
It was my junior year of college when I jetted off to study abroad in London. I spent the semester running between my school's two campuses, one in the city and another in North London. After class, I would always take the long way home and often discovered gems like God's Own Junkyard on the way back to my flat.
Before I knew it, two months of exploring England was over and it was finally time for the moment my friends and I were waiting for since we had stepped foot into Heathrow Airport - Spring break. Back home in the States, we were used to a rather short week-long break that usually went by too fast. London knew just how to spoil us with a three-week Spring break. After a lot of long nights of planning, we traveled all over Europe to Italy, Greece, Ireland, and Prague. I had the time of my life, and by the end of the trip, I just knew I had to make my way back to Italy somehow.
I was captivated by the slow stroll of the Italians, the food, and the encompassing culture. Italy has a way of wrapping you in its richness and not letting go. A few more months had passed, and my time in London was coming to an end. I still hadn't traveled alone - which was one of my goals - and I hadn't seen any cities in Italy other than Rome and Florence.
I was six months into my study-abroad program, and I was dead broke. Truly itching to travel again, I knew I had to find the cheapest flight or it wasn't going to happen. My Skyscanner search led me to a $50 round-trip flight to Sperlonga, Italy, a little town in the Lazio region of Italy halfway between Rome and Naples. Here's why you should visit this gem!
Why the Copper IUD Just Didn't Work For Me
When I was 20 years old, I started using the Nuva Ring for birth control. Within three months I was hospitalized for a pulmonary embolism, which meant there were large blood clots blocking a major artery in my lungs. I was lucky the doctors caught it soon enough before it turned into a heart attack or a stroke.
After a long recovery, I was told that hormonal birth control was no longer an option for me. Since the artificial hormones had caused the blood clots in the first place, my best option for safe birth control was the hormone-free Paragard IUD. This IUD is known to cause painful and extremely crampy periods, but I opted in for it anyway, because I didn't want to run the risk of putting hormones into my body and having a pulmonary embolism once again.
The insertion process of the IUD was far from pleasant, but it was the following few months that really took a toll on me. My periods lasted for eight days straight and the cramps were so bad I had to take off work to stay home and rest. I was losing so much blood that I actually felt dizzy and had little interest in the things that used to excite me.
Alyssa Dweck, MD, gynecologist in New York, and author of The Complete A to Z For Your V: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Your Vagina, told POPSUGAR that, while there are upsides to using a Paragard IUD (sometimes also called the copper IUD), these side effects can be tough to handle.
"The Paragard IUD typically causes periods to be longer, heavier, and crampier," Dr. Dweck told POPSUGAR. While symptoms are generally meant to even out after the first few months, it's not uncommon for women to remove their IUDs because the side effects encroach too heavily on their everyday lives. "This is not an unusual scenario, especially for women who have not had children before," she said.
I stuck it out with the Paragard IUD for 18 months. I tried everything I could to reduce the cramps and minimize blood flow. I ate a healthy diet, exercised regularly, and became best friends with my heating pad. But in the end, it wasn't worth the hassle, and I simply decided I couldn't live in that much pain anymore. It was a tough choice, because the IUD was pretty much my only option for contraception other than using condoms, but I had it removed.
That being said, Dr. Dweck points out that there are some great benefits to the Paragard IUD. "It has a really good place for people who are unable to tolerate hormones, like breast cancer survivors or someone with a blood clotting disorder," she told POPSUGAR. Additionally, it's a 10-year IUD, which is the longest form of reversible birth control you can get.
It's also extremely effective when used as "postcoital contraception." In other words, if you have unprotected sex and you're not on birth control, you can have the IUD inserted right after in order to prevent unplanned pregnancy, sort of like the Plan B pill. But Dr. Dweck said the Paragard IUD is more useful than Plan B in these scenarios, because "Plan B and a lot of other oral morning after pills may not be as effective in women who are really overweight," she told POPSUGAR.
If you're considering an IUD and you don't have an issue with hormones, Dr. Dweck recommends the Skyla or Kyleena IUDs. "[They're] specifically designed for women who have never had kids," she said, and they're a bit smaller than the Paragard, so they will likely cause less pain.
Ashley Graham Has a Replacement For the Term "Plus-Size" - So Please Use It
Who - we mean, really, WHO?! - would not want to dress Ashley Graham for the Met Gala? Not only is she a lovely person, hilarious, and easy to work with (Trust me, I hung out with Ashley at my own office), but she is also beautiful and has noteworthy taste.
In 2017, she showed up to the ball in one of our favorite looks of the night: a red curve-hugging H&M dress, covered with floral appliqué. She knew exactly what to do with her hair (slicked back to show off the elements of the dress), and she wore her outfit with confidence. But Ashley was held back from the event in 2016 - though she had already become a prominent figure in the industry - simply because no one would dress her.
She revealed this to NY Magazine in a profile that appears in the August 2017 issue, but it's not the only quote that stuck with us when we read the feature. Ahead, you'll find Ashley's replacement term for "plus-size," how she feels about being famous for the number in her jeans, and why she thinks she's one of the only models in a minority group to skyrocket to fame.
Why a Stranger Offered to Take a Photo of a Sweaty Mom and Her 4 Kids in the Supermarket
Jess Wolfe was in the midst of a semistressful trip to Aldi in which her baby was strapped to her back, her 3-year-old was begging for a doughnut to ease her stomachache, her 6-year-old was using ordinary objects as weapons, and her 7-year-old wanted to spend his own dollar on something in the store. While she was at the checkout, hoping to get out of the store quickly and with her brood in tact, a stranger approached her to ask a question.
"While I was bagging up my groceries (thanks Aldi) and trying to quietly keep from losing my ever loving sh*t, the lady next to me asked if I have one of those phones that takes pictures," Wolfe wrote in a post to Facebook. "Trying not to convey my annoyance to someone else adding to the million questions that make up my day, I replied that, yes I do have one of those fancy phones. She asked to take a picture of me with the kids."
At first, Wolfe was a bit confused. Why would this woman want to snap a photo of her and her kids in a grocery store together? The stranger explained that she wished she had more photos of her and her kids doing everyday things, so Wolfe, convinced, posed with her little ones and their shopping cart.
The mom ended her post with a note about what the kind woman - who totally changed the course of an otherwise ordinary day with her kids - had to say and why this photo is now so important to her: "She validated the fact that a simple grocery trip is hard. She told me that what I do matters. She doesn't miss what made the days hard, but she misses what made them sweet. I will always cherish this picture and the message that came with it."
Cameron Diaz's Hollywood Evolution Truly Is the Sweetest Thing
Cameron Diaz, 44, got her big break in Hollywood when she auditioned for 1994's The Mask at 21 years old. At the time, Cameron was working as a model, and despite having no prior acting experience, her career took off. Since then, Cameron has gone on to star in several films, including 1997's My Best Friend's Wedding, 1998's There's Something About Mary, 2002's The Sweetest Thing, and 2011's Bad Teacher. In addition to her impressive movie roles, Cameron also added author to her résumé with her two books, The Body Book and The Longevity Book. Cameron has certainly come a long way, and her evolution is a testament to that.
15 Ina Garten Recipes That Will Make You Say, "How Easy Is That?"
If anyone is the queen of easy recipes, it's Ina Garten. After all, her catchphrase "How easy is that?" follows just about every recipe that she makes on Food Network's Barefoot Contessa. If you've always wanted to try some of Ina's best recipes but weren't sure where to start, consider this list of 15 foolproof recipes your perfect jumping-off point. From her beloved 30-minute shrimp scampi to roasted cauliflower and more, each of these recipes will convince you that it really is possible to re-create Ina's favorite meals at home.
This Video Fighting Back Against Street Harassment Is the True Definition of Girl Power
One of the most unfortunate realities of being a woman in 2017 is that catcalling is still a very real, very common occurrence. In fact, according to a study conducted by Cornell University and Hollaback!, 85 percent of women in the US will have experienced some form of street harassment by the time they turn 17. If you need a reminder of just how dire things can get, viral sensation 10 Hours of Walking in NYC as a Woman encapsulates just how frustrating the simple act of walking on the street can be - regardless of where in the world she might be. It's against this backdrop that five Latina and African-American women came together to fight back against the epidemic, and what they came up with is one of the most stunning video projects we've seen in a very, very long time.
ELEPHANT combines dance, poetry, music, and art in order to present an empowered world in which street harassment doesn't deter a woman from walking down the street and living her life. Using all these artistic mediums, the film depicts a freer self and an aspirational goal of a woman who doesn't hide her form in order to protect her mental and physical well-being. "I hope it will shed some light on what it feels like to simply walk down the streets as a woman. How we are made to feel as if our bodies are property or entertainment," Alicia Cobb, one of the creators of the film told NBC Latino. "Maybe the men who see it will think twice before they whistle, cat call, stare, grab, or demean a woman again." And from where we stand, they did a damn good job of getting this sentiment across.
Watch the film in its entirety above, and if you're looking for an outlet for your frustrations on this subject, we highly recommend joining the Hollaback! movement.
Rihanna Is Rocking Bright Blue Hair - and She Looks Like a Frickin' Mermaid!
When it comes to Rihanna's hairstyles, there is no such thing as too edgy or too bold, and her latest style might be her most daring look yet. Over the weekend, RiRi debuted stunning turquoise hair for the annual Crop Over festival in Barbados. She flaunted her new bright look on Instagram, writing, "when yo hurr ready for crop ova," giving her fans a closer look at her new mermaid-like locks.
Rihanna's electric hair radiates different shades of blue throughout the video, with the bright turquoise transitioning into a darker blue at the ends. But her new shade did not stop at her hair; Rihanna took the look one step further by matching her hair with long neon blue nails.
Whether it's bangs, a high ponytail, or even maroon hair, there's no question that Rihanna can pull off just about any style she wants, and her new bright blue hairdo just proved that even further. Read on to see photos of RiRi's mermaid locks, and be inspired before your next color appointment.
The Surprising Mistake 86% of Parents Make When Putting Their Baby in a Car Seat
No matter how seriously you take your child's safety, a new study finds that when it comes to car seats, it's far more likely you're making a major mistake than not.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Pediatrics, attests that an alarming 95 percent of parents are making at least one significant error when installing car seats and securing our babies in them. The most prevalent mistake?
The researchers – who surveyed nearly 300 parents, mostly moms aged 25 to 34, and had certified child passenger safety technicians observe them as they used their car seats – found that above all, 86 percent of families positioned their newborn in the seat incorrectly, which increases the chance of the baby being injured while driving, even without a crash.
"A number of studies have shown that an incorrect angle of recline can lead to injury to babies, especially if too upright, as the baby's head can flop forward and obstruct the airway," said study author Dr. Benjamin Hoffman. "Having a chest clip too low can allow the baby to slump, and there have been cases of strangulation as a result."
Of all the car seats used in the study, 77 percent were installed incorrectly. What's more alarming is that for most parents, it's a combination of mistakes rather than a single trip-up: half of the study's participants made five or more errors, while just one-fifth made a single error.
Based on recommendations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, these were some of the more prevalent mistakes in both the installation phase and in the placement of the baby:
- 69% left the harness too loose
- 44% of car seats moved more than one inch from side to side
- 41% of car seats were installed at the incorrect recline angle
- 35% left the harness retainer clip too low
- 31% used the incorrect harness slot
- 21% used a nonregulated product, like a blanket, with their car seat
- 20% of car seats touched the front seats
"Mistakes are common because car seats can be complicated," Hoffman said. "The manual for the car seat does explain all the recommendations, but they can be hard to understand, and many people may not read them for a variety of reasons."
The results of this study – which note that 89 percent of the errors are deemed "critical" – might make parents feel they are doomed to fail, but Hoffman maintains that it should serve as motivation for moms and dads to educate themselves on proper infant car-seat safety.
New Studies Suggest Yoga Can Ease Depression and Minimize Emotional Eating
Several new studies have found that yoga may lower depression and emotional eating, if done on a consistent basis. At the 125th Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association, four separate studies were presented that pointed to similar positive findings about the benefits of yoga.
Lindsey Hopkins at the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center primarily examined the effects of Hatha yoga on 23 male veterans. After taking yoga classes twice a week for eight weeks, the subjects noted a decrease in depression and negative thoughts.
Alliant International University's Sarah Shallit found similar results in subjects who tried Bikram yoga, commonly known as hot yoga. For her study, Shallit examined two separate groups of women. In the first, 52 women between the ages of 25 and 45 attended yoga classes twice a week for eight weeks. Half of those women, however, were wait-listed and were not able to take the yoga classes. As you can imagine, the participants who were able to attend yoga saw their depression reduce significantly, while the other group did not.
Her findings didn't end there. When Shallit conducted a similar experiment using a separate group of women, she also noticed an increase in mindfulness and self-compassion among the participants. Not only that, but the subjects found that they were able to control the disordered or emotional eating that had been bothering them before.
Two additional studies, conducted by Maren Nyer and Nina Vollbehr from Massachusetts General Hospital, arrived at similar conclusions using entirely different groups of adults. Ultimately, all of the researchers found that the positive benefits of yoga extend beyond the physical.
Though yoga should not entirely replace treatments for depression prescribed by a doctor, it can certainly help. "At this time, we can only recommend yoga as a complementary approach, likely most effective in conjunction with standard approaches delivered by a licensed therapist," Hopkins explained. "Clearly, yoga is not a cure-all. However, based on empirical evidence, there seems to be a lot of potential."
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