Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
jeudi 10 août 2017
Brighten Up the Day With These Trolls-Inspired Birthday Ideas
Ever since the 2016 smash hit Trolls rolled into theaters, children and parents alike have fallen in love with the tiny, colorful creatures with the amazing hair. It's easy to see what draws people to the franchise. The bright colors exude a rainbow of happiness, and the unique characters make the film special. With some magic and inspiration of your own, you can bring a little of the Trolls universe to your child's birthday party.
The 1 Character Related to Sirius Black That We Didn't See Coming at All
Harry Potter fans are known to constantly uncover new theories and details in the series. All it takes is one session of rereading a book and suddenly a new link between characters is clear. It's probably how one Reddit user discovered the possibility that Sirius Black's great-great-uncle might be Elphias Doge.
Posted by Reddit user Obversa, the theory involves a lot of history and knowledge of the Harry Potter universe. It boils down to three main points:
- Professor Dumbledore and Phineas Nigellus Black's second son, Phineas Black Jr., were good friends during their time at Hogwarts.
- The relationship between Phineas Nigellus Black Sr. and Dumbledore is both friendly and hostile, because Black Sr. didn't approve of his friendship with his son Black Jr.
- Dumbledore's relationship with Sirius Black was similar to what he had with Black Jr. And Sirius's unfriendly relationship with the portrait of Black Sr. is because Black Sr. sees Sirius repeating the same "mistakes" as Black Jr.
How does Black Jr. somehow become Elphias Doge? Well, based on when Dumbledore went to Hogwarts and the timing of when Black Jr. was born, they would've gone to the school at the same time. It was their friendship and Dumbledore's influence over Doge on Muggle-born rights that drove Black Sr. to disown him as his son. And though Doge is a pureblood, there's no record of his family in Harry Potter Limited Edition - A Guide to the Graphic Arts Department: Posters, Prints, and Publications from the Harry Potter Films, meaning perhaps he is a pureblood - but of another family, the Black family.
Still curious to fully understand how Doge and Sirius Black are related? Read the full theory below.
[Harry Potter] Elphias Doge is none other than Phineas Black [Jr.], the disowned great-great-uncle of Sirius Black. Thus, he is / was the last remaining Black. from FanTheories
These Are the 6 Best Sunscreens to Wear Under Makeup
It almost sounds like a bad joke: what's white and gray all over? Sometimes, it's your face after you apply sunscreen. As a makeup artist, I've seen how sunscreens can change the appearance of one's skin tone as well as the foundation layered over it. Those pesky white undertones are caused by the sunscreen's ultraviolet filters like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Luckily, beauty brands have been fine-tuning their sunscreen products for a more transparent finish.
To help keep your sunscreen game on point (while keeping your natural glow), I've found some of the best SPF products on the market. These sunscreens manage to compliment your beauty routine without leaving that chalky residue behind.
After all, overexposure to the sun is the leading cause of skin cancer, as well a major factor in the appearance of aging. So, lathering on one of these babies is a win-win situation.
12 Movies Game of Thrones Fans Will Love
With Game of Thrones season seven well under way, it won't be long before the long Winter without new episodes is upon us once again. Before HBO banishes us from Westeros for another year, we need to prepare by doing the only thing that makes sense: stocking up on recommendations for movies that will fill the Game of Thrones-shaped hole in our hearts. Let's be real, nothing else is truly as awesome as watching the Starks and Lannisters clash every Sunday night, but the movies on this list come close. There's a little bit of fantasy, a heavy dose of history, and a few movies that would get the Tyrion Lannister stamp of approval because even though Game of Thrones is dark, even the people of Westeros still make time to crack wise on occasion. Here are 12 movies that Game of Thrones fans will love.
How Jaime's Death Would Change Game of Thrones Forever
Daenerys hits the Lannisters hard during the deadly battle in "The Spoils Of War," and now Game of Thrones fans have to ask themselves a hard question: if Jaime Lannister dies in the aftermath of the attack, what does that mean for the rest of the season? There's no denying Jaime is in a precarious position at the moment. In the episode's closing scene, he seems to be sinking in the river after someone (most likely Bronn) knocks him off his horse. This could be the end for the Kingslayer, but if it is, then his death will be just the beginning for Cersei, Tyrion, and Brienne, and his passing could shape the next phase of the great game in ways no one could possibly see coming.
Jaime is meaningful to many of the characters, and if he becomes a casualty of the war between Cersei and Daenerys, there will be major repercussions for everyone involved. Here are just a few ways Jaime's death would alter the course of the final episodes of Game of Thrones.
1 Plus-Size Woman Proves That the Size of Your Jeans Just Doesn't Matter
Thanks to major sizing discrepancies across brands, finding your real size can seem totally impossible. To illustrate the struggle we all have, associate fashion editor at Bustle.com and BuzzFeed contributor Marie Southard Ospina put 10 different brands to the test in the exact same size. The outcome? Like we suspected, size really is just a number - don't let it define you. Read on for Marie's full story, straight from the dressing room.
Between vanity sizing, inaccurate measuring charts at e-retail destinations, and the fact that no two bodies are the same, figuring out what size you are isn't an easy feat.
When you're plus-size, things get even trickier. Let's forget, for a moment, that most brands and stores simply stop producing apparel after a size 12. The reality is that a curvier body has, well, more curves. And those curves aren't something you can easily measure - let alone put into jeans.
I will admit that I am simply not a big denim lover. Whether this is due to my affinity for vintage dresses, or whether it's a distaste cultivated by the sheer unavailability of comfortable plus-size jeans that fit a 50-inch bum and a 39-inch waist, I do not know. What I do know is that sitting in my closet are clothes - including jeans - ranging from sizes 14 to 20. Just like no two bodies are ever the same, it would seem no two pairs of jeans are ever the same, either.
So because I'm into fashion/beauty experiments (like finding out how photo editors around the world manipulate my features or gauging reactions to my low-rise bikini), I decided to use my median size of a "16" - which is what I find myself purchasing most often - to investigate what different brands and designers think that number actually means.
These 37 Small Quote Tattoos Will Help You Follow BIG Dreams
Sometimes all it takes is just a little inspiration to help you make big moves. Inspiring words can motivate you - and there's no better way to remind yourself daily than with tattoos that will stand the test of time. We rounded up small and subtle quote tattoos that will change your life for the better.
30 Tiny, Chic Wrist Tattoos That Are Better Than a Bracelet
If you truly want to wear your heart on your sleeve, then the wrist should be the canvas for your next tattoo. A flat plane fairly easy to tattoo, the wrist is popular for first-timers and small designs or sayings. While the wrist is generally a more visible tattoo spot than, say, the ribs or back, this placement allows for easy coverage with foundations or bracelets - making it an ideal choice for those who might be slightly tentative to get inked in a more prominent location. Conversely, we're also partial to the wrist because of its visibility: the conspicuousness of this spot is perfect for tattoos meant to serve as a source of inspiration, support, or reminder.
But don't just take our word for it - check out these gorgeous pieces of wrist ink to get some serious tattoo inspiration.
8 of the Royal Family's Favorite Jewelers Where You Could Never Afford to Shop – and 1 Where You Can!
Historic and priceless or fresh and fun, ultraglam or understated and sophisticated, world-renowned or low-key and local: as long as there has been royalty, there has been lavish jewelry, and as long as there has been jewelry, there have been jewelers. Although the assorted royal ladies favor a variety of companies for their gemstone needs, there are a few who they come back to time and time again - unless they happen to fall from favor . . .
9 Cool Cooking Gadgets From Urban Outfitters
If you want to step your game up in the kitchen, Urban Outfitters has some useful and unique gadgets that will help your cause. These devices will not only make you a culinary genius, they are also super Instagrammable. Whether you want mini waffles or grilled sliders, the retailer has you covered. Check out our favorite must-haves from the site and get yourself a few.
That's Amore! Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd Escape to Italy For Their Honeymoon
Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd became husband and wife when they tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in Long Island, NY, in July, and now the two have taken their newlywed bliss to Lake Como, Italy. On Wednesday, the Dancing With the Stars pros shared photos from their picturesque vacation on Instagram; Maksim posted a snap of Peta lying in bed, writing, "When your bed takes up most of the hotel bedroom and you don't even mind . . . . not even a little bit . . . . 😋 #BecauseComo," and Peta shared an entire Instagram album of her and Maksim doing some sightseeing.
While the trip marked the couple's first vacation without their 7-month-old son, Shai, their little one was certainly on their minds. "Lake Como with my love. ❤️🇮🇹We were blown away by the beauty! Missing our little Shai - this is our first trip away just the two of us 😩," Peta wrote. Now excuse us while we go plan our next vacation.
Who Plays Claire on Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later?
Wet Hot American Summer returned to Netflix on Aug. 4 with an eight-episode series subtitled Ten Years Later, a nod to the 2001 film where a group of counselors agree to meet up 10 years after their memorable Summer. But never the type to shy away from cheeky winks and nods, creators David Wain and Michael Showalter decided to add a couple new cast members to the sequel in the form of characters they decided had been there the whole time.
Enter Claire and Mark, a couple edited into scenes from the original movie and 2015 prequel series, First Day of Camp, who are now a power couple living in New York City. You may have recognized Mark Feuerstein as Mark, as he's been in a ton of TV, including recurring on The West Wing and playing the lead role on Royal Pains. But you may be wondering where you've seen Claire before.
Claire is played by Sarah Burns, whose first acting gig was playing Barney the purple dinosaur (yes, really). She then appeared here and there in small movie and TV roles before finally getting a recurring role on Enlightened, which led to several other recurring TV roles on Drunk History, Married, and How to Get Away With Murder before booking two big projects for 2017.
The first one is the aforementioned Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later on Netflix, but the other is a small series you may have heard of called Big Little Lies on HBO. This smash hit, which is nominated for 12 Emmys, features Burns as Gabrielle, one of the Otter Bay Elementary School moms who is known as a bit of a gossip.
Burns's upcoming projects include a sports mockumentary called The 5th Quarter; she is also a frequent performer at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York.
Girl Scouts Just Announced the Return of This 1 Cookie Flavor – And We're All Rejoicing!
Getting a little bored with your Thin Mints? Not so into Tagalongs these days? Lucky for you, the Girl Scouts just announced that its newest cookie flavor will officially be returning to a grocery store parking lot near you . . . and it's a good one.
Last year, in honor of the organization's 100-year anniversary of selling cookies, the group introduced two new s'mores-inspired cookies to its collection. And today – which just so happens to be National S'Mores Day – the Girl Scouts are announcing that they will again be a part of this season's lineup.
The new variety will be offered in two versions, one being "a crispy graham cookie double dipped in a crème icing and enrobed in a chocolatey coating" and the other being "a crunchy graham sandwich cookie with a chocolate and marshmallowy filling."
According to the official press release, these cookies, which made their debut during the 2017 cookie season, became the most popular flavor to launch in Girl Scouts history. It was the first time a new cookie had been introduced since 2015, and the reason for the s'mores theme is rooted in Girl Scout history.
"The tradition of making and enjoying s'mores in the outdoors was popularized by Girl Scouts as early as the 1920s," the release states. "The organization was one of the first to publish the iconic recipe under the name 'Some More' in a 1925 issue of Girl Scout Leader magazine, and then as 'somemores' in an official 1927 Girl Scout publication. The popular s'mores recipe is just one component of Girl Scouts' longstanding commitment to the outdoors."
Not only do the cookies pay homage to the organization's origins, but they also are a response to popular consumer trends. The chocolaty-coated option is vegan, and both continue in the tradition of being kosher and free of trans fats.
As with all Girl Scout cookies, 100 percent of earnings stay with local councils and troops, whose collective mission is to benefit girls through unique programs and invaluable experiences. If you want to invest in the future of one of the group's two million girls, find out how to volunteer . . . or just buy a box of cookies!
The Most Flattering Swimsuits For Every Body Type
We've resolved to put an end to the fear and frustration that come with swimsuit shopping. From curvier frames to athletic body types, we're helping to make sense of the endless swimwear options and narrowing them down to the picks that were made to fit and flatter your frame. Want to know what you should be looking for? Read on to get the experts' dos and don'ts, find your perfect suit, and never hate swimsuit shopping again!
Be sure to check out our bikini-body workout plan, too!
For even easier shopping, click below for your needs.
These 11 Fall Essentials From NYX Are Totally Worth the Hype
The moment I discovered NYX products in drugstores, I became a huge fan. The brand offers quality cosmetics at insanely low prices. Not only are the products cruelty-free, but they also come in a massive variety of shades. This Fall, there's some gorgeous NYX products you need to create the perfect seasonal look. These are the essentials that every beauty junkie should have on hand. Check them out, then go forth and create autumnal looks.
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.
How Often Should You Clean Everything in Your House? Here's a Handy Guide
Maintaining a beautiful household can be so rewarding, but that doesn't mean it is free from its challenges, mainly cleaning. Yes. Having a home means lots and lots (and lots) of cleaning. It can really seem endless! So, to prevent you from any washing and scrubbing-induced breakdowns in your near future, we decided to compile the ultimate list of how often you should clean every single thing in your home. From dirty dishes and your bathroom countertop, all the way to your beloved laptop (yep, you should be cleaning that too), read on to make sure that your cleaning routine is right on schedule.
How Much Does the Average Wedding Dress Cost?
For most future brides, it's all about the dress. But, what a bride-to-be wants and what they can afford are two very different things. Budgets come into play, especially as the planning for a wedding unfolds. For some, the dress can hold a higher place on the list of spending priorities, and setting a realistic budget for the wedding gown depends on several budgeting factors, like who's paying for what, for instance.
TLC's Say Yes to the Dress offers a glimpse into the stressful, sometimes bridezilla-esque nature of choosing the dress, but also is sure to capture the realistic process of balancing the bridal budget. Regardless of a financial plan, sometimes you'll see the love of the dress outweigh a promise to stick to price limitations. Dream dresses may trump strict budgets, and parents, or even fiancés, plunk down a little more cash to get the bride exactly what she wants. Still, there are other couples who stick to their budgets, no matter what.
With the slew of designer gowns, designer discount gowns, and custom and thrifted dresses, wedding gowns can run the gamut on prices, and while there are certainly extremes on both the higher and lower ends of the spectrum, what is a realistic wedding dress budget?
Wedding statistics released in 2017 by The Knot show the price brides are willing to pay for their gowns has gone up. The 2016 national average spent was $1,564, and the year before it was $1,469. Apart from venue, photographer, and planner, the wedding dress was one of the costliest items of the whole event. If the dress is a top priority for you, then it's a good idea to budget the rest of the event accordingly by cutting back costs on other aspects - maybe plan it yourself instead of hiring a planner, or choose a cheaper venue - to make up for what you're spending on the gown.
The 1 Thing We Should All Be Very Worried About Right Now, According to Samantha Bee
President Donald Trump spends a whole lot of time talking about how much he's accomplished since taking office. While a tremendously long list of recent failures may serve as evidence to the contrary, Samantha Bee devoted an entire segment of her show on Aug. 9 to the one area that he actually is making headway on: judiciary appointments. And while it may not be the sexiest topic of conversation, it's one accomplishment that will have an enormous impact on every single American citizen in the future.
Back in 2013, when the Democrats still had control of Congress, then-Majority Leader Harry Reid made a very serious decision. Fed up with having the party's nominations blocked by Republican filibusters, he triggered the so-called "nuclear option," allowing Democrats to use their majority vote to force through their nominees. Now, it's coming back to haunt them: with well over 100 open federal court vacancies, Republicans are using the very same tactic to get those positions filled.
"Trump has picked 37 judges in six months," Bee exclaimed. "That's 20 more than Obama, and Obama didn't spend 14 hours a day angrily toilet-tweeting." And those 37 judges are almost exclusively white males . . . white males who will now enter positions that they will inhabit for life. That's right: federal appointments don't just last for a fixed term, which means that the future of domestic policy lies in the hands of individuals who represent a small sliver of the American population.
Watch Sam Bee theatrically binge-drink as she unpacks this news in the video above, but also remember the key takeaway from the segment: while the federal judiciary may not be the most exciting thing to think about, it's something we all ought to spend a bit more time thinking about going forward.
21 Small Towns You Should Visit on Your Next American Road Trip
Big cities are great to visit if you're looking for an efficient vacation with strict planning and lots of stuff to do. You can fly in for under a week and hit up all the well-known spots with your friends. Ain't no shame in the big city game!
But maybe you're fresh out of college, you have a lot of time off, or you're self-employed - and you're capable of setting a few weeks aside for an all-American road trip (there's truly nothing in the world like it!). First, congratulations! You're about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. But now, where to go?
If you're looking for interesting, photogenic small towns, you've come to the right place! Here are 21 spots you should stop in, snap lots of pics of, and brag to all your loved ones about. Because these are downright awesome.
What It's Really Like to Work as Emirates Cabin Crew, From a Former Employee
When I was growing up, I never dreamed of becoming a member of a cabin crew. However, I always dreamed of traveling to faraway places all over the world - and that is what led me to join Emirates Airline in 2012. When I got my confirmation call, I was ecstatic; I was going to live in Dubai and get to travel the world for free! I also had major travel anxiety about moving 7,000 miles away from everything I knew. But after a couple reassuring talks with my friends and family, I realized nothing was going to stop me from seeing the world. So, in October 2012, I headed to JFK Airport in New York City with a one-way ticket to Dubai.
As I said goodbye to my family, I could feel tears welling up in my eyes. I took a deep breath, quickly said goodbye, and headed toward security. The next hours were a complete whirlwind. I boarded the A380 double-decker plane, which was by far the largest aircraft I had ever been on in my life. After I told one of the crew I was a new joiner, he showed me all around the plane and introduced me to the other crew. All my fears disappeared; I immediately felt like being part of a family. After landing, I was brought to my furnished, paid apartment right in the heart of downtown Dubai.
Just three days later, my six-week training course with new joiners from all around the world started. My training covered everything from safety and emergency procedures to image standards. After those intense six weeks, I finally received what I was waiting for: my very first roster. It consisted of different layover destinations (where we stayed in a hotel), as well as turnaround destinations (a one-day round trip from Dubai). My first roster was full of places I could not wait to explore.
My First Ultralong-Haul Flight: Dubai - Melbourne - Auckland
I was so happy to see a six-day Melbourne-Auckland trip show up on my first roster. This trip was broken down into smaller segments: Dubai to Melbourne (24-hour layover in Melbourne), Melbourne to Auckland (24-hour layover in Auckland), Auckland to Melbourne (24-hour layover in Melbourne), and Melbourne to Dubai.
On the day of my flight, I woke up at 6 a.m. (for a 10 a.m. departure) and started my routine. Since the flight to Melbourne was so long, I made sure to apply everything as perfectly as I could. I put on my full face of makeup and tied my hair into a neat doughnut bun. I then grabbed my suitcase and headed to the shuttle that brought me to Emirates headquarters.
On the way to the airport, I felt a mixture of emotions; on one hand, I was so nervous because I was still completely new, but on the other hand, I was so excited about traveling to countries I always dreamed of going to. "Fake it till you make it," I told myself and went to my preflight briefing room.
The preflight briefing room was buzzing with energy. We were flying on the A380 plane, so there were over 20 crew members in the room. I got my documents checked by one of the senior crew members. After this came the moment I was dreading: a "Safe Talk" question. This is a question asked by the purser (the manager) of the plane and it's required to be answered by each cabin crew member. Not answering the question correctly could lead to getting offloaded (which meant getting taken off the flight and reported to your manager), a fate no new cabin crew member wanted. These questions were directly related to what we learned in our training, but there was still so much to remember. On that day, I answered the question correctly and felt a weight off my shoulders disappear.
Finally, I went to get my image and uniform checked by another one of the senior cabin crew member. This part of the process always made me feel a bit uncomfortable.
I felt like a doll on display for someone as they went through their checklist looking for the following: that my nails were of the right length and color (either clear or red), that my hair and makeup were up to standards, that my uniform was in perfect condition, and my tights were of the right opacity and color.
After all my fellow crew went through this process, we sat down and were briefed on our upcoming flight. Once finished, we got into a shuttle that brought us to the aircraft.
Seeing the A380 without passengers made me realize how huge the plane was. There were over 400 seats in economy and two galleys (kitchen and storage area) for us to use. I went to my station, dropped off my carry-on bag, and got straight to work. First came doing safety and security checks in my designated area. Then I had to prepare the cabin and hot towels for when our passengers got on board.
At 9 a.m., it was showtime. All the passengers started rushing onto the plane. I was happy to be in the back of the plane, where it was calmer than in the front. Once everyone was on board, we handed out towels to our passengers. Then we prepared the cabin by conducting our final safety and security check. I sat down on my jump seat and prepared for takeoff.
The flight to Melbourne was hectic; it was over 13 hours with nonstop work. There were three different services, and since I was still so new I was confused half the time. I barely had time to breathe. Even after we finished our service, the call bells were ringing every other second. I must have walked several miles on that flight going back and forth from the front of the aircraft to the back. We had a short break of about three hours, but I had so many thoughts rushing through my mind I couldn't sleep.
Before I knew it, I could see Australia from outside the window. I couldn't believe that those 13 hours had passed so quickly. After landing and getting to the hotel, my adrenaline kicked in. I had been up for almost 20 hours but it didn't feel like it. I rushed out of the hotel with some of the other new crew and explored Melbourne. The next day my wake-up call came and I repeated my same routine. Then it was off to Auckland.
My first months of flying were amazing - nothing I had done previously in my life could compare. All the new experiences outweighed any negative side of the job. But, eventually for me, that scale tipped the other way.
Saying Goodbye to Emirates
Whenever I posted photos to Facebook of all my amazing trips, my friends would comment telling me how envious they were of me or how glamorous my life looked. While it was true that I lived an exciting life, it was far from being nearly as glamorous as people thought.
There were so many advantages of working for Emirates: living in Dubai for free, staying in amazing hotels across the world, traveling on your days off while only having to pay 10 percent of the airfare, having friends from all over the world, and having a tax-free salary.
While it was true that I lived an exciting life, it was far from being nearly as glamorous as people thought.
But there were also so many disadvantages: being away from family and friends, missing holidays, feeling lonely, dealing with jet lag and health issues, having passengers yell at you for things out of your control, being looked at all the time for your appearance, dealing with delays on flights, waking up at any hour during the day or night for flights, and so much more.
There came a day when the disadvantages outweighed the advantages for me, and that's when I decided to leave Emirates. When I first left, I felt so happy to be on ground all the time and sleep normal hours again. Eventually, I did start to miss many things about being crew. It wasn't really the travel I missed; it was the sense of camaraderie I felt with the crew. I missed being so tired on long-haul flights that we'd all sit around in the galley deliriously giggling and telling jokes to stay awake. I missed hearing stories about the life and culture in different places around the world. Most of all I missed the sense of family I felt with crew.
I'm so glad that I took the chance to work as cabin crew. It changed my life in so many ways and gave me a new sense of confidence in myself. I'm happier being on ground now, but whenever I see a plane flying above me, I always wonder what kind of interesting things are happening at 38,000 feet.
Wedding Music: 60 Father-Daughter Dance Songs
With wedding season here, we're giving you inspiration for the big day, because planning is fun! We've given you over 100 first dance songs and a guide to wedding music, and this time, we're giving you ideas for the father-daughter dance. It's not the easiest one to pick, but we're hoping that you'll be able to find the perfect one for you among our 50+ suggestions.
Gordon Ramsay's Badass Tip For Making the Very Best Burgers
Image Source: Getty Images / Ethan Miller
Gordon Ramsay knows his sh*t, especially when it comes to classics. I trust him with my life when it comes to scrambled eggs and I'm about to do the same for his method on burgers. While at a press event to promote his new cooking game with Glu Mobile, Gordon joked, "The last time I was this ambitious was opening up my burger restaurant in Las Vegas, because you're doomed to come over as a Brit and attempt to open a burger restaurant in the middle of Las Vegas."
Image Source: Getty Images / Bryan Steffy
Here's where Chef Ramsay gets to the meaty part: "But we perfected the patty, and we basted it in Devonshire butter, and brought something new in. We toughened up the brioche buns so it could absorb all that butter . . ." Do you remember the Jack-In-The-Box Buttery Burger? Yeah, yeah, we all thought America had gone to hell and back until we took a bite and became believers. Quite simply, fat makes things taste better, and Gordon Ramsay definitely knows that. In case you are worried you can't procure Devonshire butter at your local grocery store, opt for a cultured butter like this one from Trader Joe's. It's salty and has a slightly funky cheese flavor. Baste the hell out of that burger for optimum flavor! And secondly, raise your hand if your bun has disentegrated within five minutes of placing the patty on it. Gordon has such an obvious yet uncommon solution: use a tougher bread! While a homemade brioche bun may be out of the question, consider a sturdy pretzel bun.
An Alarming Court Case Reveals That Airplane Seat Sizes Really Are Shrinking
If you were to rank the things that Americans complain about most, air travel would almost certainly be at the very top of the list. Once upon a time in a not-so-far off past, a plane trip meant you were wooed with inflight meals, drinks, and the luxury of a free checked bag. Now, every airline seems to be hyperfocused on getting as many people as humanly possible into each and every flight that takes off, regardless of what that means for the customer experience. While on-board Wi-Fi and seat-back TVs may serve as a gimmicky distraction, it's impossible to ignore the uniquely awful discomfort of an overbooked flight - or, quite honestly, to ignore the fact that it feels like the amount of personal space you get on a plane seems to be dwindling by the day. Here's the thing, though: you're not imagining it. You really are getting a whole lot less seat for your buck - a fact that the FAA is now being forced to deal with in court on a federal level.
Back in 2015, an advocacy group called Flyers Rights filed a petition over safety concerns related to diminished seat size, but had their claim thrown out by the FAA. After two years of fighting in federal appeals court, the judge ruled in favor of the group last week. "This is the Case of the Incredible Shrinking Airline Seat," Judge Patricia Millett's July 28 opinion on the case reads. "As many have no doubt noticed, aircraft seats and the spacing between them have been getting smaller and smaller, while American passengers have been growing in size." Millet goes on to say that the original petition was thrown out without merit, as the evidence used to deny the claim was what she called "vaporous," likening it to "'a study on tooth decay that only recorded participants' sugar consumption' but did not look at brushing and flossing."
As of right now, there's no minimum seat size set by Congress or the FAA. Earlier this year the Senate rejected a proposal that would have put a guideline in place, but was shot down by a partisan vote. But it did mean that some concrete statistics on the shrinkage, sourced by New York Senator Chuck Schumer were made available to the general public. And boy, does it paint an ugly picture: that the distance between seat rows (known as "seat pitch," or just the amount of legroom per seat) had dropped from 35 inches to 31 inches over the past 50 years, and that the size of the seat itself had gone from 18.5 inches to around 17 in the last 25. And those are averages - certain airlines are as low as 28 and 16.5, which is astonishing when considered in the context of the growing rate of obesity in the United States.
The larger question of regulation isn't likely to be dealt with soon, though. The case that was just heard in court deals explicitly with "whether smaller seats and larger passengers could have an impact on emergency egress," and while the decision forces the FAA to go back to the drawing board with how they're going to regulate this specific problem (or come up with legitimate evidence that means they don't have to), it will only be the first step toward addressing our cramped legs and sore bottoms. But there's something to be said about knowing that for once we're not all just complaining about something that's inconveniencing us - it's really happening. And maybe, just maybe, this newfound awareness will help boost the effort for travelers to get the legroom that they deserve (and, frankly, are paying for.)
29 Quotes That Prove Bronn Is the Funniest - and Crudest - Man in Westeros
No matter where your personal loyalties lie within the Game of Thrones universe, Bronn (Jerome Flynn), who has been a friend and ally to both Lannister brothers over the course of seven seasons, has easily been one of the best sources of comic relief in Westeros. From his snappy one-liners to his crude sarcasm, Bronn has always kept it real, for which we are eternally grateful.
Following the cliff-hanger ending of season seven's fourth episode, "The Spoils of War," we may be a little unsure of Bronn's fate, but for the sake of comedy, we really hope we haven't heard Bronn's last zinger just yet. Find some of our favorite Bronn quotes of all time ahead, and pray with us to the old gods and the new that there will be more to come.
These Are the Key Game of Thrones Season 7 Filming Locations
The vast world of Game of Thrones is still expanding in season seven. Now that Daenerys is finally back in Westeros, Dragonstone is a major location, but it's far from the only new locale featured this year. While Daenerys and her small council plot to take the Iron Throne from Cersei, the show is busy taking fans to long-talked about (but little seen) places like Oldtown, Highgarden, and Casterly Rock. As always, Northern Ireland remains a center for the show's production, but fans planning a themed vacation should be prepared to visit stunning real-world locations all across Europe to get the full Westeros experience. Read on to discover the wide array of locations used to make Game of Thrones season seven come to life.
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.
Could This Heartbreaking Harry Potter Theory Explain Hogwarts Class Sizes?
A question that comes up often in Harry Potter fan circles is about the size of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. JK Rowling describes the magical institution as one of Europe's largest, with hundreds of students attending every school year. But, as book readers are well aware, the series's namesake character seems to have very few classmates, a mere handful of boys and girls in Gryffindor, with similarly scant enrollment of Harry's grade level in Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin.
Well, one Tumblr user has come up with a theory for why Harry Potter's grade level is so small.
This theory, though heartbreaking considering its implications, has been parroted across Reddit and other fan blogs. It makes sense, right? Given that Harry's parents were killed when he was only 15 months old, it would explain tiny class sizes immediately surrounding Harry's year - Voldemort was at his peak leading up to and immediately following Harry's birth. Understandably, couples likely avoided conceiving during such terrifying times, with only a few brave wizards in Britain deciding to procreate despite the horrors of Voldemort's reign.
This sort of wartime fear surrounding major life events is a common theme in the Harry Potter series. In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Molly Weasley explains that she and Arthur married young because everybody did during Voldemort's rise to power - they didn't know how much time they had left. And her son Ron justifies kissing Hermione during the Battle of Hogwarts for a similar reason.
"Is this the moment?" Harry asked weakly, and when nothing happened except that Ron and Hermione gripped each other still more firmly and swayed on the spot, he raised his voice. "Oi! There's a war going on here!"
Ron and Hermione broke apart, their arms still around each other.
"I know, mate," said Ron, who looked as though he had recently been hit on the back of the head with a Bludger, "So it's now or never, isn't it?"
So next time you're wondering why you only ever hear about a handful of Hogwarts students in Harry's grade level, understand that they're the few whose parents were brave (or foolish) enough to bring babies into the world during the reign of a complete monster.
19 Monokini Swimsuits That Are About to Make This Your Sexiest Summer Yet
If you're searching for a one-piece that isn't sporty, meet the monokini, a sexier take on the fuller coverage swimsuit that features lots of curve-hugging cutouts.
The original style, designed by Rudi Gernreich back in the 1960s, was actually topless - in fact, it was the first topless swimsuit ever. Modern versions of the monokini, however, offer more coverage while maintaining that unprecedented sex appeal, which is probably why celebrities - including Sofia Vergara - have made it their go-to suit. Ready to make it yours, too? Keep reading to find your perfect match.
Fall's Best Layering Trend Is Ridiculously Flattering - and Involves Your Summer Dress
One of the most flattering trends to come out of 2017 (and maybe even the second half of 2016, too) is wearing a dress over jeans. Aside from the obvious function behind the move - extra layers provide warmth and your Summer maxis get more use - the look is totally street cool. After all, when you pair a feminine, flowy dress with edgy denim, you're striking the perfect balance between casual and elegant.
That means that complete with heels, the ensemble is appropriate for an event or a night out, and with sneakers, you're instantly the best dressed lady at brunch. But before you get to styling, you need to know that there are so many different ways to pull off this outfit. You can unbutton your dress and tuck half of it loosely into your waistband, or you can work a boxy, oversize silhouette with an added jacket or sweater. Read on to find the option that's right for you, then shop a few pieces to help you achieve a winning combination.
Every Parent Will Lose It at 1 Mom's Heartfelt Note to "Her Nugget" on His First Day of Preschool
Two years ago Mary Katherine Backstrom walked up to the door of her son's new preschool hand-in-hand with her "sweet nugget," who was shuffling his feet and gripping her finger "like a vice" as big tears streamed down his red cheeks. He lifted his arms to his mama and said, "Mommy, come with me? Mommy, no leave?" which completely wrecked Mary Katherine, who turned her back on her son to walk to her car.
"I wish you were old enough to understand why, but at 2 years old, you aren't," the mom wrote in a post to her blog's Facebook page, Mom Babble. Back in her car, Mary Katherine considered the fact that her son had likely stopped crying and had already made some new friends, but still, she decided to pen a letter to her boy for when he's older - when he can "finally understand" - sharing the things she wants him to know about the drop-offs to the preschool she and his dad "agonized" over sending him to.
By the time you are able to read this, these preschool drop-offs will be a distant memory. Truth be told, you probably won't remember them at all. You won't remember the screaming or the tears or the way your teacher calmly held you as I hurried my way back to the car (in case I lost courage and ripped you away from their arms). You won't remember all the panic on my face or the redness in your cheeks. You won't remember, but I promise I will. . . .
You won't know how guilty I felt at home, cleaning the carpet for the third time. How the dishes were done, the bed was made, and how I was certain that by 10 a.m., your confidence in me was officially crushed. While you were wondering where Mommy was, I was on the phone with Ms. Joann, getting an update on how you played with that brown plastic donut and laughed when the teacher blew bubbles during circle time. By now, you couldn't possibly remember these details. But sweet boy, know that I will.
Maybe you'll be 7 years old when you read this, rolling your eyes because this letter only proves how ridiculous Mom truly is. Maybe you'll be a teenager, embarrassed by this emotional trainwreck of a confession. Or maybe, I like to imagine, you'll be packing up a safe four-door sedan with blue jeans and polo shirts. There will be a college bumper sticker on the back, a tank full of gas, and you will smile at me reassuringly as I grip your hand like a vice. And maybe as you pull out of the driveway, you'll find this letter folded neatly in the passenger seat.
There will come a day when Mommy is the one at drop-off. Perhaps I'll put on a brave face. Or there will be big tears streaming down red cheeks. Either way, it will be your turn to hurry back to your car and leave me sniffling in the rearview. And when that moment comes, you'll be looking ahead to some new adventure - not looking back.
Mary Katherine continues, assuring her son that he won't remember the tiny socks and Mickey shirt he wore or that his mom woke up early on his first day to make muffins with him. "You won't remember that I dropped you off at this quaint preschool, and sat in the car to write you this letter (while sobbing like an idiot)," she wrote. "You won't know all of the pride and love and joy and sadness that simultaneously consumes a parent's heart when they see their child take a step, or leap, toward independence. You won't know how that feels. But I will."
Here's Why This Vitamin May Be "The Most Important Discovery For Pregnant Women"
For pregnant women, preventing miscarriages and birth defects might be as easy as taking an extra pill each day, according to a new study. And even though vitamin B3 isn't officially considered a prenatal vitamin yet, it's still pretty easy to come by.
Researchers from the Victor Chang Institute in Australia investigated why certain women have more miscarriages than others, and the results were very telling.
They found that expecting mothers are more likely to lose the baby if they have extremely low levels of a molecule called NAD - or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. NAD is also very important when it comes to babies' organs developing correctly, so the more of these molecules soon-to-be mamas have, the less likely their child will be born with birth defects.
"Arguably, it's the most important discovery for pregnant women since folate," said lead researcher Professor Sally Dunwoodie in an interview with ABC News.
And although their findings have only been tested on mice thus far, doctors believe the research could go a long way in preventing miscarriages and birth defects in humans down the line.
If you're pregnant, you can get a healthy dose of vitamin B3 in foods like eggs, cheese, turkey, salmon, nuts, and seeds or go the supplement route and pick up a bottle at a local drug store.
This Fiery Dance to Harry Styles's "Kiwi" Is Giving Us So Much Life Right Now
The best song on Harry Styles by Harry Styles is "Kiwi," no doubt, according to me. I fully intend to rage when I hear it live when Harry goes on tour this Fall, and now I know exactly what moves to learn and bust out at the concerts, thanks to choreographer Galen Hooks. She and the rest of this talented crew at LA's Millennium Dance Complex just dropped this sexy routine, and as a fan of Harry's, it has me wishing that he had some ability to dance so he could join in. However, as danceable as "Kiwi" is - he's screaming about having babies and it's no one else's business, after all - I feel pretty confident that Harry won't be trying any of Galen's choreography anytime soon. It's no matter: we have this video, as well as others from the talented dancers at Millennium, to get us on our feet.
15 Reasons Portugal Is the Country to Visit in 2017
What comes to mind when you think of Portugal? Native son soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo? Or maybe you remember Magellan the Explorer and the Age of Discovery from your history classes. The country on the edge of the European continent has a lot more than that going for it, both in its past and present. And if you pay a visit, I guarantee you'll fall in love.
Yet for some reason, Portugal hasn't been a top destination for either backpackers or honeymooners. As longtime travel guidebook writer Rick Steves points out, Portugal is Western Europe's least visited country. That may soon change. Recent stats from the government show foreign tourism to Portugal rose 10 percent in one year. And the travel experts I spoke to agree the trend will continue.
"Perched right on the edge of Europe, stunning-but-understated Portugal has been overlooked in favor of higher-profile Mediterranean destinations like France, Spain, and Italy," explains Lonely Planet Destination Editor Tom Stainer. Stainer says travelers should give Portugal consideration, thanks to its vibrant cities, golden beaches, historic villages, and medieval castles. "Portugal has everything," he says, maintaining that 2017 is Portugal's time to shine. "Not only is it one of the safest countries in the world," according to Stainer, "but it also offers great value for money." He notes that many of the top attractions are free, and local food and wine are cheap - and delicious.
Robin Brooks, from adventure tour company Exodus Travels, believes that as more Americans travel overseas, they'll be looking for new places to visit, beyond the standard London, Paris, Rome whirlwind. "Many have already ticked off the classic European Tour," she notes. Portugal, on the other hand, "is packed with history, culture, outdoor adventures, beaches, and other highlights that remain to be discovered."
It's not surprising then that people are catching on. Travel + Leisure named Portugal its top destination last year. Throw in the fact that the dollar is historically strong against the euro, and 2017 is the year to book your trip to Portugal while it's still affordable. If you're not fully convinced yet, here are 15 reasons you should visit Portugal ASAP - along with a healthy dose of travel eye candy.
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."
The Top 25 Reasons You Aren't Losing Weight
Even if you follow a fitness routine and you often choose healthier foods, you may not be seeing the weight come off the way you hope. While there are plenty of other healthy accomplishments to celebrate on this journey, it can be frustrating to not see results when you step on the scale. Sound familiar? Chances are, one of these reasons is all that's standing in the way of your weight-loss goals.
- Additional reporting by Jenny Sugar, Michele Foley, and Leta Shy
11 Cuban Appetizers to Serve at Your Next Party
Whether you're the one hosting a get-together or you want to come up with a creative dish to contribute to a friend's gathering, one thing's for certain: you'll rarely ever go wrong if you prepare something with a little international flair. Keep scrolling for a list of Cuban-style dishes that will surely make you the talk of the party.
Sip These Teas to Soothe Your Stomach, Lose Weight, and Get Clear Skin
Tea is a soothing Winter drink, and it can have pretty miraculous healing properties. Did you know the teabag you choose can give you a unique result? Whether your goal is calming down, perking up, or recovering, there's a tea for that.
We asked tea expert Kristina Richens - a director at The Republic of Tea, certified tea specialist from Front Range Herbal Institute, and speaker from the SF International Tea Festival - to share what she's learned from her travels to China, India, Japan, and South Africa. She spoke about which teas you should brew up for each time of the day, as well as which ones help with certain physical goals (even if your goal is just to fall asleep!).
- Supercharge Your Morning: Black or Green Tea. The caffeine content with L-theanine (present in these teas) will give you a calm state of alertness.
- Get Through an Afternoon Slump: Green Tea With Ginkgo Biloba. Kristina told us that green tea can enhance performance, while ginkgo biloba can keep your memory sharp.
- Recover After a Workout: Black Tea. A cup of black tea has 88 milligrams of potassium, which contributes to muscular recovery.
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety: Green Tea, Lavender, or Chamomile. Time to unwind. "Chamomile and lavender are known as nerve-soothers and calming herbs," she said. Lavender and lavender oil are great ingredients to look for when relieving anxiety, and green tea and matcha also promote relaxation.
- Snooze Soundly: Chamomile or Valerian. Soothing and mellowing chamomile and valerian root will help you slip into a peaceful slumber. Valerian root, referred to as nature's Valium, is a common ingredient in sleep supplements thanks to its relaxing properties. "Valerian is also great for drinking before bed as it won't interfere with REM sleep," Kristina said.
- Slim Down: Dandelion or Peppermint. Dandelion has been said to help eliminate excess water weight, as well as aid in digestion - a key component in weight loss. "Dandelion's use traces back to the 10th century when Arabian physicians revered the root for its cleansing properties and as a natural aid for digestion," she said. Peppermint tea can help curb your appetite and support digestion as well. In herbal blends, Kristina says to look for ingredients like "gymnema leaves, which are known as the 'destroyer of sugar' in Ayurvedic medicine," and "cordyceps, a Chinese medicinal herb, [which] may boost energy and endurance, and can help rev up your internal engine and increase metabolism."
- Clear Skin: Rooibos or Green Tea. Antioxidant-packed rooibos and green tea can both help alleviate acne, pimples, sunburns, and uneven skin.
- Soothe an Upset Stomach: Dandelion or Ginger. The dandelion root is a natural aid for digestion and has cleansing properties, while ginger root is known to settle a stomach in all its forms.
11 Pretty Jewelry Organizers From Target - All Under $38
I have way too much jewelry - more than any normal woman should have. But, hey, I love to accessorize so I'm not giving up the goods anytime soon. That's why I appreciate a great jewelry organizer. Not only does it keep everything in order, but it also allows me to display necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Target has recently released a bunch of gorgeous organizational options I would proudly set on my dresser or vanity. Plus, they're affordable. Check out the best picks and get one for yourself so you don't have to keep detangling all those chains.
The Ultimate Inexpensive Guide to Exploring New York City Like a Local
Eclectic, eccentric, and oh so enchanting, it only takes one bite of the Big Apple to leave you wanting more. More of the contagious and upbeat energy. More of the breathtaking skyline. More of the world-famous, thin-sliced pizza. More of the . . . well, you get the idea.
It goes without saying, New York City is an incredibly magical place to visit. However, if you're not careful, a trip to this buzzing city can add up quickly, leaving you with an empty wallet and one-too-many "I Love New York" trinkets.
As someone who once called this place home, I can certainly attest to how expensive this city can be. But I can also vouch for how great of an area this pocket of the north is for any budget. Over the course of several years, I scoured the city to find the best things to see, explore, and discover, all on an ultracheap budget. And trust me, the options are endless!
So if you're heading to this concrete jungle anytime soon, be sure to check out these 30 unique, budget-friendly things to do. Not only will this guide save your bank account from depletion, but it also will provide you with a taste of living like a local - hence why you won't find Times Square on the list. Get ready for an unforgettable New York adventure!
Kat Von D's New Glimmer Veil Will "Make Your Lips Look Like a Giant Christmas Present"
In her own words (and our own observation - the woman is dropping all kinds of products these days), Kat Von D is "so f*cking busy." But, we're so glad she took the time to show off the nine Glimmer Veil ($22) swatches. Our eyes were so glued to these gorgeous hues that we barely noticed her chipped manicure ("Don't hate me for it!" she pleaded).
In the video, Kat Von D said that she was inspired to make a truly long-lasting metallic product that "makes your lips look like a giant Christmas present." The lazy girls (or perennial late) among us will love to hear that Glimmer Veil can be worn on its own. But, if you have some extra time, Kat Von D recommends layering it over matte lipstick "for an opaque glitter glimmer." She demonstrated both options in the video.
Read on to see for yourself, but be warned: you may have to take out a second mortgage, because you'll want to buy every gorgeous shade on Aug. 22. (And when you see how she perfectly layers Glimmer Veil over her Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks, you'll probably want to pick up a few of those, too!).
Hurry Up, Halloween! Here Are Our 19 Favorite Decorations For Under $25
We're starting to get antsy because Halloween needs to come faster. We're ready for costumes, candy, and - most of all - decorations. If you're like us, you know that it's never too early to start preparing for the most wonderful holiday of the year. That's why we did an internet deep dive to find the very best Halloween decorations for under $25. We think it's smart to stock up now so you're ready to go the second Fall arrives. Time to get shopping . . . these affordable finds won't stick around for long.
This Mom's Letter to Her Newly Adopted Son Will Make You Reach For the Kleenex
Holly Romero, a mom who recently adopted a teenage boy, shared how both taxing and rewarding the adoption process can be in a sweet letter to her new son.
Romero described the ups and downs she had during her adoption journey from the very start - and her desire to find just the right new addition to bring into their home.
"I began to feel very discouraged after reading many files, and not feeling like those children were meant to be a part of our family," she said. "Until we saw yours."
After looking at file after file and failing to connect with any of the younger kids, Romero came across an older boy's file, and it hit her all at once: this was her son. "I was on page seven and it was at that moment that God said 'THIS IS YOUR CHILD,'" she wrote. "It was so loud and clear that I couldn't ignore it even if I tried."
Even though she and her husband certainly weren't prepared for a full-fledged teenager to be milling around the house, the pair made it work.
"Daddy and I weren't prepared for a teen, but remember what I always tell you? Sometimes God calls us to step out of our comfort zones," she said. "And son, I am so, so glad He did that. Because for the past 454 days, you have shared our home and stolen our hearts. You are funny, kind, smart, brave, and worthy of all the love in this world. And boy do we love you."
Romero also acknowledges that the adoption process isn't a cakewalk for either party, and there's certainly a lot that goes into it, but at the end of the day they're a unit, and that's what counts.
"It's dealing with heartbreak, anger, fear, and abandonment," she said. "It's a lifelong journey and not a destination, but son, it's a journey that you will never again have to face alone."
The mom finished her letter by giving him a handwritten note to keep in his wallet so that if he's ever having a bad day, he can be reminded of the people who love him: his new family.
It reads: "WE LOVED YOU THEN, WE LOVE YOU STILL, WE ALWAYS HAVE, WE ALWAYS WILL."
8 Things You Never Knew About Dunkin' Donuts, Straight From an Insider Employee
I spoke to a Dunkin' Donuts franchise owner to get the inside scoop on one of America's favorite doughnut shops. I won't reveal where he's located, but I will say that it's a newer location that regularly attracts a line out the door - he's even had to turn people away for fear of running out of doughnuts. It's a popular breakfast spot to say the least, and after learning these fun facts, you'll be an even bigger fan.
The first restaurant is still open and serving guests to this day.
Dunkin' Donuts was founded in Quincy, MA, in 1950 by Bill Rosenberg. Those were the good old days, when a cup of coffee cost . . . 10 cents.
All unsold food is donated at the end of the day.
"At the end of the day, everything is donated to a local, nonprofit food bank. It is left to the discretion of the individual franchisees of each restaurant to select their local donation partner."
You can customize essentially everything on the menu, so don't be afraid to ask.
"Our menu of beverages and sandwiches are completely customizable based on a guest's individual preferences. For instance, guests can customize their breakfast sandwich order with any type of bread, including English muffins, croissants, bagels, and flatbreads, and then choose what they'd like inside, including egg, cheeses, and a variety of meat options. So even though you may see a Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich on a Bagel on the menu board, you can customize pretty much everything in the breakfast sandwich."
The top-selling doughnut flavors are . . .
Boston Kreme, Chocolate Glazed Cake, Chocolate Frosted, and Jelly Filled. (At least, at this particular location).
Almost 2 billion cups of coffee and nearly 3 billion doughnuts are served every year.
"Dunkin' Donuts serves more than 1.9 billion cups of brewed hot and iced coffee every year globally and more than 2.8 billion doughnut and Munchkins doughnut hole treats. On an average day, Dunkin' Donuts sells about 60 cups of freshly brewed coffee each second."
Dunkin' Donuts has its own school.
"Dunkin' Brands University, located in Braintree, MA, is the training center where the brand's franchisees and managers train to run Dunkin' Donuts and/or Baskin-Robbins restaurants. Hundreds of students attend Dunkin' Brands University each year from countries around the world, including India, Russia, and China."
Employees get free food and coffee.
If you're a coffee addict who also happens to love doughnuts, this might be the job for you. "Our crew members get free food and coffee, but it's up to each franchisee."
There's an easy way to save money every time you order.
"I'd recommend that guests sign up for our DD Perks Rewards Program, where they earn five points for every dollar they spend at Dunkin' when they pay with an enrolled Dunkin' Donuts card. Once a member earns 200 points, they receive a coupon for a free any-size beverage of their choice. DD Perks members also receive a coupon for a free, any-size beverage when they enroll in the program and on their birthday. They're also given exclusive, personalized special offers to earn bonus points for specific food and beverage purchases, so they can earn their free beverage even faster."
Kids of Immigrants Just Released the Selena Hoodie We Didn't Know We Needed
Kids of Immigrants just made our day (or our lives, if we're being serious) with the release of their Inspiration 1/1 Oversized Selena Hoodie. The pink and black hoodie features the words "Just Know That You Can" hand-painted in yellow across the chest and the word "Dream" on the bottom in green under an ethereal photo of Selena Quintanilla. It will set you back $200, but it's totally worth it.
You need to hurry, though. As the name of the garment suggests, there is only one (yes, you read that right) so you need to act fast because once it's gone, it's gone. The site reads "Only one made, with LOVE." We are already hoping and praying that Kids of Immigrants will bring it back and have more instead of just one.
Kylie Jenner's Genius New Ink Shows How to Deal With a Tattoo For Your Ex
Image Source: Getty/Bob Levey
Breakups suck. You have to give each other back your respective stuff, try not to snoop on their new boo thang's social media (NEVER a good idea), figure out what to do with your tattoo of their name . . . OK, maybe that last one only applies to Kylie Jenner. You see, back in December 2016, Kylie got a cute lil "t" tattooed on her left ankle. It stood for Tyga, of course, but they broke up in April.
Image Source: Splash
Later, Jenner started dating Travis Scott. And then they got matching butterfly ankle ink in June. Ah, to be young and in love!
While out in London, Kylie showed off her newest piece of ink, which should look somewhat familiar. That's because Kylie went and changed the "t" for Tyga to a cursive "L.A." It's hard not to compare this to Johnny Depp's iconic "Wino Forever" tattoo (which he got back in 1994 - three years before Kylie was born!). But this is a much more delicate, modern update. It's also a genius way to recycle ink. Props to Kylie for being so resourceful. Relationships come and go, but the 310 love lasts a lifetime.
Image Source: Getty/Ricky Vigil
You Should Clean Your Hair Dryer Once a Month! Here's How to Do It
Believe it or not, you should be cleaning out your blow dryer every month. It's something a lot of people don't even think about. Most hair dryers never get cleaned out at all!
In order to get your dryer back in shape, first you should find the cap at the back of the hair dryer where it intakes air. That cap should be easy to twist off. Inside you will find a filter that's filled with dirt, dust, and all sorts of gunk. You can use a toothbrush or damp cloth to remove the build up. Just make sure the filter is completely dry before you place the cap back on. Once the cap is in place, you're good to go. Make sure you're dryer is not plugged in while you're cleaning it!
Why is it so important to clean out your blow dryer? The motor needs to have good ventilation in order to work well. Any build up in the air filter will decrease the amount of air flowing through the vent. This can cause overheating or your dryer to break altogether. Also, it will take longer to dry your hair because it's less effective. So keep up on cleaning your styling tool so that you won't have to buy a new one! You'll save yourself money and time.
Starbucks Can't Keep This Dreamy Disneyland Mug in Stock
As part of its expansive You Are Here Collection, Starbucks released a brand new Disneyland mug. Though the company already had a mug inspired by Disneyland in its collection - in addition to mugs inspired by the other parks - this new version has a different color scheme and a more whimsical design.
According to several sources, the original version will soon be discontinued. Disney blogger KT The Disneybear even urged her followers to purchase the first edition while it's still available. Though it's unfortunate that the original mug will no longer be available, the new mug is decidedly splashier.
The Disneyland mug is currently available at the Market House on Main Street for $17. If you happen to find the mug in stock, consider buying it then and there as Starbucks can barely keep a supply of the mugs on hand. That being said, Starbucks does intend to continue stocking the mug as quickly as possible indefinitely. For a more in-depth look at the trendy souvenir, read ahead.
25 Brides Who Went Modest on Their Wedding Day - and Completely Took Our Breath Away
When we first spotted Nicky Hilton on her wedding day, our jaws nearly fell to the ground. Gone was the revealing white number she wore mere days before, when she accidentally flashed a crowd at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. And in its place? A long, lacy Valentino gown, which one could perfectly describe as "classic" and, above all, "modest."
All of a sudden, our minds went wild. We knew Nicky wasn't the only bride who could pull off this style, so we did a little Insta digging - and found a trove of #ModestBride inspiration.
Read on to see why you might want to consider ditching those strapless options and covering up for your nuptials. These ladies did - and they all looked stunning.
The Touching Reason Princess Diana Wasn't "a Gloves Person"
Princess Diana will forever be our ultimate style icon, but it looks like there was a powerful reason behind one of her most frequent fashion choices. The late Royal often sported gorgeous gowns and eye-catching jewels, but have you ever noticed how she rarely wore gloves? Though Diana did slip on the accessory from time to time, she often broke the royal protocol to send a strong message to the world: her crown didn't separate her from others - even those who had stigmatic diseases.
Back in 1987, the late Princess of Wales shared a gloveless handshake with an AIDS patient in London, a move that wowed the world at a time when many feared the disease. Looking back at the noteworthy moment, her brother, Charles, opened up to People magazine about why Diana chose to make such a bold statement at that moment and during many other moments that followed.
"She was not really a gloves person," he admitted. "She was very real about human contact. And what really mattered that day was to get across a very clear message that, 'I'm going to touch this gentleman - and you can all exist in a community with people who are suffering, and we must help.'"
To honor Diana's royal protocol-smashing style and attitude, let's take a look back at some of her best gloveless moments.
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