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.
samedi 12 août 2017
10 Ways Workaholics Can Chill Out and Work Less
Workaholics - either you know one, or you are one. If the latter's your case, take a few minutes to reconsider your priorities. True, your career is important, but so are your friends, family, and personal desires and goals. Think of it this way: you've only got one (very short) life and spending the bulk of your time at your job means missing out on some of the best memories. Below are 10 tips for the one who works too much (trust us - it can be remedied!).
1. Admit it.
It's easy to justify staying at work till 8 p.m. every day ("My boss asks me to - I don't have a choice!"), but get in the habit of recognizing when (or if) it's a problem.
"Most people deny the fact that they have an issue, so the first step is realizing you have been working too much and that you need to make a conscious effort to slow down," said millennial career expert Jill Jacinto.
2. Talk to a therapist.
Sorting out your frustrations, stress, thoughts, and feelings with a professional will bring you closer to work-life balance, little by little.
"I highly recommend doing some mindset work with a coach or therapist about what's driving you to work when you don't need to," said Ashley Stahl, a career and business coach for millennials. "Too many people subconsciously tie their self-worth to their work, and this sort of mindset work can be supportive in seeing their own worthiness beyond their professional output." If you've never seen a therapist, don't be afraid to start! Even the strongest of us could use extra help sometimes.
3. Restrict your working hours.
There's a load of reasons working 11 or 12-hour days is bad for you, but suffice it to say, cutting down your shifts to a normal or slightly above normal average is in your greatest interest.
"Stop being the first person to get to work and the last one to leave," said career coach and bestselling author Julie Jansen. "One of these is OK if it aligns with your natural body clock. Not both!"
4. Get a hobby.
Seriously - figure out something to do when you get home, so you're not just working, eating, and sleeping.
"Find an outside interest," Jansen said. "Cycling, art, gardening . . . whatever! Find other people who enjoy the same passion and hang out with them."
Jacinto echoes the significance of a home-life hobby - specifically, exercising.
"Get moving," Jacinto said. "Most workaholics don't make time for anything, and the first item that usually loses its place from the to-do list is exercising. Not many people look forward to lifting weights or using the elliptical, but getting your blood flowing is exactly what you need to do in order to live a healthy lifestyle. Instead of dinner with a client, why not invite them to a Spin class? Or wake up 20 minutes earlier to take a quick run around the park." It's true: 20 extra minutes is all it takes!
5. Turn it off.
Thinking about work during a weekend trip with your SO or family? One word: don't.
"If you are home with your family, on vacation, or at an event, be present," Jacinto said. "Don't let your mind or fingers wander back to the office or your phone. Make a point to let go and enjoy where you are, what you are doing, and who you are with."
6. Don't stretch yourself too thin while you're on the job.
Yes, it's entirely possible to overwork while you're at work.
"Stop overbooking meetings and conference calls," Jansen said. Simple enough.
7. Take your lunch break . . . every day.
You deserve breakfast, dinner, and lunch. Preserve a half hour for pasta salad from the deli next door - and stay away from email during that time slot.
"If you've ever uttered the phrase, 'I don't have time for lunch at the office,' you have a problem," Jacinto said. "Eating proper meals stimulates your mind and energizes you. Your work will start to slack if you don't sustain yourself. Realize grabbing a sandwich and leaving your desk for 15 minutes will not negatively affect your work performance - in fact, it will give you the energy to conquer your next project."
8. Limit your perfectionism.
Your output should be awesome - but flawless 24/7? Not feasible. You're human.
"Work on your perfectionistic tendencies," Jansen said. "It takes too long to be perfect, and no one cares."
9. Stick to your personal calendar.
You're set for a dinner date on Wednesday night with an old friend from college, but you're thinking of rescheduling because of your hectic week. Refrain! At the most, push it back a half hour.
"Avoid canceling social plans because of work," Jansen said. Nobody likes a flake.
10. Learn to say no.
It's tough to do, but figuring out how to say no is one of the most powerful skills you can master.
"Stop saying yes to your boss, your colleagues, and everyone else at work," Jansen said. "In other words, stop being the person who can do everything." Because, let's face it - you can't.
"Say no," Jacinto reiterated. "There are times in our careers where we want to say yes to everything, and there are times we feel the need to say yes to everything. Realize that saying no is an option and may sometimes be a better choice. Set boundaries for yourself." Understanding your work limitations is essential in discovering the changes needed to practice a balanced lifestyle.
23 Cruise Hacks That Will Change Your Entire Trip
Image Source: Flickr user Roderick Eime
There's no shortage of reasons to love cruises. The gourmet dining, picture-perfect views of the water, nearly all-inclusive charges, and diverse travel in a minimized time frame make cruising one of the most enjoyable and convenient vacations to take. If you're planning to sail in the future, keep these hacks in mind. These tips are sure to make your nautical experience the best it can be!
- Turn off your phone's roaming service. Before boarding, be sure to turn off your phone's roaming service, or you'll rack up major data expenses. A cruise's WiFi can be spotty and pricey, so it may in your greatest interest to simply unplug altogether and enjoy being in the present.
- Take a tour of the ship when you first board. This way, you know where everything is right off the bat. You'll spend the next week or so exploring the neat nooks and crannies!
- Seek extra storage in the room. Be sure to ask staffers about the storage in your room - chances are, there's more space for your luggage than you realize!
Image Source: Flickr user Joe Ross
- Pack magnets. Many cabins are made of metal, so you should pack a few magnets. The decor will make your room feel more at home, and it's convenient when you want to hang up documents or photos during your stay.
- Pack a power strip. If you're cruising with multiple people, bring a power strip so you don't have to fight over open outlets. Some companies, like Disney Cruise Line, don't allow them, so check the policy before you go!
- Look for the free ice cream machines. Dessert-lovers, you won't want to miss the free ice cream machines plus toppings placed around many ships. Make it a game to find them . . . or, you know, ask an employee.
Image Source: Flickr user Nick Gray
- Bring motion sickness patches. Even if you're not usually prone to motion sickness, it's a good idea to bring a box of patches along anyway for you or the friends and family you came with. Sometimes the ship sways severely.
- Ask room service for help with nausea. You can also enlist the help of room service if you're feeling unwell. Cruise workers are used to seasick passengers, and they may bring you certain foods like apples and crackers to ease the nausea.
- Make sure you know the tipping policy for room service. Your cruise line may implement autogratuities, where a specific amount is charged to your account daily. On other ships, tips may not be necessary at all. Ask the cruise staff ahead of time, or look up the policy online.
- Plan your port days beforehand. Map out what you're going to do when you reach your destinations well before you leave the boat so you don't waste any time on land.
- Take advantage of free classes. These may be included in your cruise package and can range from exercise classes like spinning to towel art lessons. Be sure to ask around, and do your research!
Image Source: Flickr user Rob Lee
- Bring free food from the buffets with you on port days. This will save you money if you don't want to spend it on local food.
- Don't spend money on basic toiletries. Similar to a hotel, your cruise will provide these.
- Bring your own booze. Some ships allow you to take on a certain amount of your own alcohol, but some don't, so make sure you're aware of the ship's policy on this.
- Use a wallet case for your phone. Keep your cash, cards, and phone together so you don't have to drag around a purse or backpack. Also, you're less likely to lose any of these important items when they're not floating around separately.
- Nap on the lounge chairs. Feeling exhausted? Don't nap in the room. Instead, take a snooze on a lounge chair on the upper deck. The breeze and the sun are beyond relaxing - just be sure to wear SPF.
Image Source: Flickr user lynette sweeney
- Go in the pool or hot tub after dinner. Most people are off doing activities after the final meal, so the pool and hot tub should be less crowded at this time.
- See the live shows whenever you get the chance. These are well worth the money, since you can't get the same experience anywhere else. Make a point to see at least one or two!
- Make a list of all the things you want to see and do. An organized checklist will help you remember all the amazing activities you wish to dabble in. Consider devising an entire itinerary, if it's not too stressful.
- Catch a glimpse of the water during peak times. The ocean looks particularly beautiful at sunrise, sunset, and beneath the moonlight.
Image Source: Flickr user Roderick Eime
- Play trivia to make new friends. The cruise may have designated trivia times. Participating is a great way to mingle on the ship.
- Ask about exclusive ship souvenirs. Your cruise line might offer special trinkets to commemorate your trip.
- Don't wait till the last day to do everything. If something interesting on the ship jumps out at you (like a themed bar or water slide), don't put off checking it out. Trust us, your trip will
flycruise by quicker than you realize, and you'll never want to find yourself out of time.
This Mom's Hilarious Cartoons About Pregnancy Problems Will Be the Funniest Thing You See All Day
Nobody ever said that being a mom is glamorous. And although there's plenty of talk about that wonderful pregnancy glow, most moms can relate to the less seductive side effects that everyone experiences but few talk about. You get sick, you get hairy, and you get big.
Illustrator and mother of two Line Severinsen can't help but laugh at these "joys" of motherhood and started making hysterical cartoons of her real-life pregnancy problems. From pining over a glass of wine to judgmental strangers staring when you breastfeed in public, her relatable illustrations have developed with her motherhood experiences.
"I thought to myself that there is no way that no other people felt and looked like I did," she wrote. "So I wanted to create a counterpoint to help people like me to understand that they weren't alone and that it is OK to feel and act less than perfect sometimes."
While we don't know whether to laugh or cry at how spot-on some of these illustrations are, we're just glad to see that we aren't the only ones who've been there!
A Thank You Letter to Betsy DeVos From a Public School Teacher
Thank you, Betsy.
That sounds strange coming from a public school teacher of 15 years. Indeed, after a day of teaching fourth graders, who are diverse in every way and whose future is now in your control, saying thank you is the last thing I thought I'd say today. But thanks. On Feb. 7, 50 Republican senators voted for you, you who would not have made the cut to be hired as a tutor for their own children. Thank you, Betsy, for showing me money has power, but not over all.
I don't know if I feel worse for the senators who sold out because of the money you gave them or for the ones who sold out for free. But not everybody let their vote be bought, and that gives me hope.
Thanks, Betsy, for by showing me my fears, you clarified my beliefs. Yes, you inspire a lot of fears in me . . . will class size grow? Will Title I be cut? Will English For Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services disappear? Will special education be decimated? How will my job change? Will my students have the same opportunities for college as my generation?
Through clarifying my beliefs, you triggered my actions. Thank you for giving me more solidarity with my co-workers, friends, family, and world. In our mutual sorrow at your lack of credentials, we came together. On Tuesday, I did not eat while grading papers or planning lessons. I sat with my co-workers as we mourned the loss of our voice. During the fight to block your confirmation, so many teachers, students, and parents spoke up while calls and letters to senators were ignored and protests delegitimized.
My union never lit a fire beneath me - but you did. Thank you.
Thank you, Betsy, for inflaming my disappointment in our government. Mr. Rogers taught us to look for the helpers in any time of darkness. But it was you who made it dark enough for me to look.
I watched hours of CSPAN listening to thoughtful testimony of so many education advocates and became obsessed with ordering a bound copy of Monday night's incredible congressional record. I have never before felt so political or so united behind my party. Now I want to donate money, support the candidates I believe in, organize . . . the sky is the limit. My union never taught me this, never lit a fire beneath me - but you did. Thank you.
More than anything, I want to teach. I want to continue to teach my fourth graders that citizenship means respect for all and a responsibility for each other, to read critically, to value being informed. I want to teach them that a million small efforts will eventually be more powerful than one large campaign check. And I want to teach them that America will always return to freedom, no matter how much corruption tries to reign.
So, thank you, and good luck to you. You have no clue what you just signed up for.
This post was originally published on February 20, 2017.
The Swimsuit Style You Never Expected to Want but Now Need
When the Summer 2017 Triangl lookbook landed in my inbox, I did a double take as I scrolled through the images. Was that - could that be - a velvet swimsuit? But just a few days later, the look was popping up on my Instagram feed from the likes of bloggers and style influencers everywhere. It's like the crocheted two-piece from last season, an exciting new material we never expected to flaunt poolside.
It's almost unbelievable that we can wear these designs to the beach and get them all sandy and wet and still have them maintain their quality after a wash. But you better believe swim brands are churning out functional velvet in a wide range of silhouettes, and they're quickly becoming fashion-girl must haves. Scroll to shop our favorites.
7 Shopping Secrets Straight From an Aldi Employee
Aldi grocery stores may be famous for their exceptionally low price points, but we're finding out that there's a lot more to the company than just a solid deal on bananas! One employee revealed tons of secrets about the grocery store and what it's like to work at Aldi in a Reddit AMA, and we're truly intrigued. During the "Ask Me Anything" conversation, the employee spilled the details on how "fresh" the produce is, why the cashiers are always sitting, and those delicious knockoff Girl Scout Cookies. Read on for all of the juicy Aldi shopping secrets, straight from an employee.
There's a weekly deal called Special Buys.
One Irish Reddit user wondered if they featured a weekly special product like they do at the stores in Ireland, which is often a really random product, like "skiing gear or a chainsaw," and the employee said yes. "It's called Special Buys," they shared about the weekly deals. "We just got a bunch of gardening things in yesterday!" So good to know!
They have amazing coffee!
The employee shared that coffee is their favorite thing to buy at Aldi. "We have amazing coffee," they shared. "My favorite is the Honduras and Peru whole bean (single source, organic, and fair trade) and the regular fair trade medium roast. The chocolate (choceur) is better than almost any common brand you can find. Almost everything there is truly comparable to national brands. It's not just a line. There is a very short list of things I don't like." They also sell great K-Cups for Keurig users.
Why do the cashiers always sit?
One curious Reddit user asked why the cashiers are always sitting, and it has absolutely nothing to do with laziness. "The register chairs are a German thing. I'm not 100% sure why. But I like to think we sit because we bust our asses cleaning and stocking when we aren't ringing."
The knockoff Girl Scout Cookies are delicious.
Someone asked why the near-identical Girl Scout Cookies weren't available in all stores, and the employee shared their incredibly impressive self-control when it comes to the cookies. "They are pretty amazing," the employee said about the cookies. "I don't allow myself to buy them often, though. I'll eat the whole thing by myself in like a day or two."
No, you can't get a discount on squished boxes.
Apparently, it's a running joke between shoppers that no one can ever find baking soda in Aldi stores, but we have an answer! "Baking aisle, top shelf," the employee shared, revealing a tip that might be a letdown to some customers. "No, you can't get a discount on the squished boxes."
Hiring is very competitive.
Yup! When someone asked if their experience at Walmart would help in the application process at Aldi, the employee said yes and opened up about the great number of applicants. "A lot of district managers like to hire people with former management experience (that's part of why I got hired)," they shared. "All experience matters of course, so grocery experience is definitely on your side. My store (not in a very large city) receives several hundred applications a year. Two people were hired in my store in the last 12 months. . . I was one of them. It's a tough job. Everyone does everything, including 6am truck shifts. Keeping the store clean and stocked is a constant struggle when it gets as busy as it does, and when there are only 2-3 working at a time. . . well, you can imagine. That's why it's nice to sit while we ring."
Produce is exceptionally fresh.
With such low prices, many shoppers wonder how "fresh" the produce really is, and the employee reassured the curious Reddit users that even though the produce is less expensive than other grocery stores, it's great quality. "We get produce deliveries every morning," they shared. "The turn around is very fast, so we don't have much waste. We just don't over-order, I guess. It's more typical that we are all out of broccoli by the time we close than it is that we have several extra cases that just end up in the trash." At this employee's location, local restaurant employees will even come in to purchase produce. "We often have local restaurants come in to buy produce to hold them over until deliveries come in. They have mentioned that it's cheaper than their wholesalers. I don't have actual numbers, but bananas and lettuce are big sellers in that area."
But if you're still wondering why shoppers are required to purchase a cart for a quarter, check out more Aldi secrets from another candid employee.
10 Beauty Products That Serve Double (or Even Triple) Duty
As a beauty editor, I love my getting-ready routine, from test-driving new products to experimenting with different looks. But something I love even more? My sleep. That's why products that tackle more than just one makeup, skin, or hair need are key for getting out the door on time without feeling like I skimped in the beauty department. Luckily, there are plenty of industry favorites that take "multipurpose" to a whole new level. From a daily vitamin that benefits your inner health and outer appearance to a lip-cheek-eye stain, these beauty allies go the extra mile to help you conquer the morning in style. Continue ahead to see and shop the products that will help you save serious time . . . and look good doing it.
This Unexpected Skin Care Ingredient Might Be the Answer to Fighting Wrinkles
Peruse any shelf in your favorite beauty store - virtual or otherwise - and read the label. Chances are, you'll see many mentions of ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin C, and retinol. While you're likely pretty familiar with those buzzwords, it's safe to guess that you're not as acquainted with copper peptides. However, more and more products are taking advantage of copper's powerful properties, so it's time you got a quick lesson on the science and skin care benefits.
The Science and History
Copper peptides were first developed and utilized in products that helped expedite wound healing. But over the last couple of decades, scientists and researchers have studied the ingredient as it pertains to the regeneration of collagen production and antiaging. What they've found has been promising and has led to more brands incorporating copper peptides into products.
"Copper peptides are supported by voluminous scientific research and play an integral role in age prevention skin care regimens," said Francine Porter, a product development expert and the founder of Osmotics Cosmetics.
She explains that copper is something our bodies produce naturally and that it serves as both an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. According to recent studies, copper peptides in skin care have been found to not just increase collagen and elastin (the materials responsible for firm, taut skin) but also nix old, damaged collagen and elastin to make way for a more youthful complexion.
The Skin Care Benefits of Copper Peptides
Products utilizing copper peptides are best for those who want to slow down signs of aging. Will it give you an instant facelift? No, the only thing that can do that is, well, a facelift. But according to many researchers, it can improve the quality of your skin.
"Proteins are the key building blocks of most living tissues," explained Bella Schneider, a clinical skin care expert and founder of Bella Schneider Beauty. "Copper peptides can help minimize the damage from daily wear and tear of the skin. They also have the potential to improve wrinkles, skin texture firmness, and thickness. Copper peptides are effective against various forms of skin irritation, mainly due to their anti-inflammatory effects."
Products Containing Copper
Sunday Riley Bionic Anti-Aging Cream ($125) contains an antiaging cocktail of copper, resveratrol, coenzyme Q10, and prickly pear. I find that a little goes a long way with this thick, custard-like formulation and that it's ideal for mature or dry skin types since it's so moisturizing. I apply a thin layer at night after cleansing and toning, and as the night progresses, my skin slowly sucks up the sweet-smelling product. In the morning, my skin is noticeably softer and plumper.
CU Shine Copper Mask ($46) is a shimmery peel-off mask that looks like molten metal and contains a mixture of copper, magnesium, and zinc. I apply it to clean, dry skin and let it set for about 10 minutes before peeling it off in one layer. Afterward, my skin feels exfoliated, soft, and firm. Bonus: it makes for fun Instagram selfies.
Lastly, Korres Golden Krocus Ageless Saffron Elixir ($98) combines copper with saffron, hyaluronic acid, and oat. These ingredients work together to plump skin, minimize fine lines, and hydrate and soothe your skin. I like that it has a velvety slip to it and my skin drinks it up within minutes after applying.
Established Ingredients vs. New Ones
"Remember that many cosmetic ingredients come into popularity in cycles," said Stephen Alain Ko, a cosmetic chemist. "Copper peptides, in combination with retinoic acid, was popular in the mid-2000s as a treatment for acne scarring on online forums."
Ko says that the jury is technically still out in the case of copper peptides and that many of the studies are currently "in vitro," which means they're still being tested on skin models within a lab. For that reason, some arguments say you should avoid new ingredients (like copper) entirely and stick to those that have a long and solid history. While it's hard to argue with that line of thought, there's still something to be said for innovation, even if it's young.
This Indonesian Bride Wore the Most "Liked" Wedding Dress on Instagram
Indonesian bride Intan Azzahra and her groom, Zendhy Zaen, had a wedding fit for a prince and princess. The couple aren't technically royals, but that didn't stop them from throwing an extravagant wedding where the bride had not one but two Cinderella-esque wedding gowns. The bride's Cinderella gown caused a major social media frenzy, garnering over 200,000 "likes" on Instagram - that makes it the most "liked" wedding dress ever.
For her first dress, Intan wore a custom creation by Indonesian designer Ivan Gunawan, featuring delicate beading on the sleeves and bodice and a train made of soft cascading tulle and more beads. Like a royal, Intan even wore a bejeweled pearl crown to complete her look. But she didn't stop there.
Later on, she changed into a fiery-red gown that - if possible - was pouffier than her first. The design flared out at the shoulders, and layers of feathers trailed all the way down her dress. She, of course, accessorized with a second gold crown, and her guests were in red and gold, too. Read on to see all of the bride's looks from every angle.
Toddler Hilariously Scolds Her Dad After He Leaves the Toilet Seat Up Again
"How many times do I have to tell you - when you put the [toilet] seat up . . . to put it down for me?!"
If you're a woman who's ever lived with a man, you've probably asked this question in some variation what feels like hundreds of times. Although Bradlee Rae Hayes is just a toddler, she's already realized the frustrating struggles that come with the toilet seat being left up. The adorable toddler hits her dad, Jeremiah, with the hard facts: "I don't want to [put it down], I just want you to do it. Listen to me - when you're done with the potty . . . you need to put [the seat] down for the girls."
Can we get a slow clap for Bradlee?
17 Greyhound Bus Driver Employee Secrets to Read Before Riding
Do Greyhound drivers really see a "black dog" run across the road when they're tired? What are the prettiest routes in North America to take by bus? And what strange things do they see on the job? A former Greyhound bus employee did an IamA on Reddit, and they did not hold back on spilling all the secrets about what it was like to work as a driver. Read on to find out some behind-the-scenes juice about the job.
1. Tell me about this "black dog." Is it some urban tale?
"There's a movie with Patrick Swayze, Meat Loaf, Randy Travis, and Gabriel Casseus where Patrick Swayze is a truck driver. He talks about the black dog you see after you've been on the road for too long and start getting too tired. It'll come out of nowhere in the middle of the night and dart out at you, and you'll think it's real and try to avoid it. I thought it was just some made up movie plot till the first time I saw it when I was really tired on an overnight. Not necessarily a dog, but any hallucination of something darting out in front of the bus. Happened quite a few times, very scary."
2. What's that one story you always tell?
"Pick your poison. There's my last night of training driving blind through a blizzard (16 inches of snow, zero visibility) all night long on an interstate that was shut down at 25 mph for 10 hours. Had an inch of ice frozen onto some parts of the windshield . . .
There was another time at Greyhound where I was doing NYC to Springfield, MA the day the tornadoes hit there. Passenger asked me as we left New Britain, CT, what do we do if one hits. I said, park the bus under a bridge and hope for the best. Then as I got ready to leave Hartford, after clearing with central dispatcher in Dallas that it was OK to proceed, the passengers all freaked out that it had just hit downtown Springfield. I called Springfield directly, and they said stay put. Finally 30 minutes later, I got the all clear. Downtown was a mess, but we thought it was over. I offload and go into the drivers room and hear over the TV 'we now have a confirmed touchdown on the Massachusetts Turnpike.' I walked up to the dispatch booth and said, load me up I'm getting the fuck outta here now!"
3. Why do you think Greyhound kind of has a bad reputation?
"The clientele. Even in training they tell us we'll be driving the nations bail jumpers, fleeing felons, ex cons, pimps, and prostitutes. In my experience though, most of my passengers were pleasant and just wanted to get from A to B. A lot of the stations are a hub of homelessness, beggars, and especially in NYC, the mentally ill. The ones Greyhound owns though largely employ some sort of security that keeps it restricted to ticketed passengers and those waiting for them (Philly for example) . . . between riding and driving, I've never had an issue that was truly concerning.
The bad rep also comes from the way they operate. Just because you have a ticket with a specific time and specific date, it doesn't mean you're guaranteed a seat on that bus. They just keep selling tickets regardless of how many seats are available . . . If there aren't enough seats, you gotta wait for the next one, which can be several hours.
You also hear of drivers getting lost a lot. That's because they give us these paper directions that are often wrong or haven't been updated since god knows when . . . Even when they are right, we're trying to drive the bus, read the directions, and watch for the street sign signs . . . It's honestly a miracle getting lost doesn't happen more often."
4. Are you not allowed to bring a smartphone?
"The problem is that the mapping software on them will often send you ways that buses aren't allowed to go (look up any video of an 18-wheeler on the Northern State Parkway on Long Island and see what happens) and also that Greyhound has their own in-house company-prescribed routing they want you to take. If you get into an accident off-route, it's instant termination. They also follow you on GPS and sometimes by car and will call you if you're off-route (even though we aren't supposed to talk on the phone while driving)."
5. What's the nastiest thing that's happened in your bus?
"Toward the end of my training, probably the fifth week or so, I was doing a schedule from NYC to Harrisburg, PA. Before we even got to Easton, PA, some guy threw up the entire big gulp of Kool-Aid he was drinking when he boarded all over the second row."
6. What made you want to become a Greyhound driver, convenience or you wanted to travel?
"I had always been fascinated with the road and big trucks. All throughout college, I knew I was gonna at least try out some sort of job where I could just have the road and my music, a sort of place of peace for me. After I graduated, a financial situation came up that was ultimately what pushed me into filling out the application. I got the job and fell in love with the daily adventure and how soothing the combination of the highway and my music really was for me."
7. Why are buses kept so unreasonably cold? Low heat in Winter and very high air-conditioning in the Summer.
"For me, it was to stay awake on the overnight runs. Also, the windshield reflects the sun like crazy, so I always gotta crank the AC to compensate during the day."
8. Ever fall asleep while driving?
"It's something that most of us would never admit, but yes, unfortunately, and I'm sorry for all the lives I put in danger when it happened. I'd say legit eyes closed asleep happened twice, maybe three times. But that eyes-wide-open sleep, where you're there but not there, is what happens most. It took me seven overnight runs to Montreal to be able to really handle the long night driving. Now I'm good, and I know when I can push on, when I know it's time to call it quits."
9. When broken down in an area with no cell reception, do you usually have some sort of radio coverage or a book with local frequencies or are you stuck using CB?
"No CBs on Greyhound buses, no radios either. No cell service means walk to the nearest highway emergency phone. I was getting ready to walk it once on I-87 in the Adirondacks but the northbound bus showed up and pulled over and we shouted across the highway at each other troubleshooting ideas."
10. What are some of the prettiest routes you've taken?
"Daytime NYC to Montreal during Spring thaw, no debate. It's the run that made me fall in love with driving."
11. When you get to your destination, do you get to just hang out in that city for a while or do you get right back on the bus and go on your next drive?
"It all depends; no two days are ever the same unless you have enough seniority to bid a regular run. Sometimes it's load up right away to either go back or to somewhere else; some days you have to wait around for a few hours to find out what you're doing next; some days you know what you're doing next and have some free time to kill and can walk around cuz you don't need to be at the yard or terminal for them to tell you what you're doing next; some days they put you to bed and you can kinda enjoy an hour or two out waking around; and sometimes they leave you up there for days and kinda forget you exist.
It also depends on the city. Philly, Harrisburg, Montreal, you're right there in the heart of town, so it's easy to go walking around . . . If they put us to bed in Atlantic City, it was a mile to the nearest bar (and believe me, we'd walk it!) . . . Montreal was the place I consistently got the most free time to really enjoy the area."
12. What do you mean by put you to bed?
"Going to bed means going to either the hotel or the dorm to get a minimum of nine hours off duty before they call you back in. Sometimes they call you exactly nine hours from when you pulled in, sometimes you'll be sitting there for days.
That's when it really sucks because you'll go to sleep, wake up and stay up all day, then finally when you're nice and tired and ready to go back to sleep, they're like, hey come in and do this eight-hour overnight run. You can look at the board for that city online and try to guess when they're going to call you, but oftentimes something comes up that messes up what time you think they're gonna call you. Oftentimes I'd keep myself cooped up in the hotel room trying to match my sleep to what I was reading on the board so I'd be ready to work a 15-hour day, but you can only force yourself to sleep so much. That's when the job starts getting depressing and messing with your head."
13. So they only require you to be off duty for nine hours between shifts? They don't require that you get some sleep in that time? Doesn't sound very safe.
"Yup. When in the hotel or dorm, it's nine hours + one hour to report . . . they can only mandate you be off duty, they can't mandate that you sleep during that time off. They urge you to sleep, but we've all got things that need to get done, sometimes during our time off. And then, yeah, the varying schedule means your body's internal clock is all f*cked up . . . There's a reason most of Greyhounds' severe accidents are fatigue-related. You can of course always call out sick or fatigued, and they'll book you off for another 12 hours or so, but you can only do it so much before it starts causing problems with management."
14. Any fun/good tips you would give to travelers that might not be thought of right away?
"Just keep your eyes on your stuff at all time. The Austin terminal is one of the sketchier ones I've been to. If you see the guy with one hand about twice the size of the other who will offer to do a one-handed handstand for some vodka, walk away, fast. Also, it's way different from flying. A bit more lax, but with a more sketch vibe."
15. How was the pay?
"When I started it was 16 and change an hour for driving with passengers, and by the time I left seven months later, I was at $18.64/hr. But they pay you less for other things, like deadheading (driving an empty bus to another city), cushioning (riding a bus to another city where they need drivers), and sitting on protection (sitting around at a terminal, waiting to be told what to do). There's also layover and meals, which kicked in after I think 16 hours laying over at a foreign city and then again I think at 24 hours. The problem was oftentimes they liked to "forget" to put those things in your check, and so in your limited time off, you gotta spend time filing pay claims. In total, I'd say they owe me about $3,000 in unpaid stuff that added up in seven months. The hourly pay was also part of why I left."
16. As a city bus driver, I warn people that this job sucks your social life to a minimum. Did you have to deal with family issues while at GH?
"I went to Greyhound the month after graduating college, so I was single with no kids, but they tell you in the interview that the job destroys families. I don't know how people do it unless they just flat out hate their family."
17. What's the strangest thing you've ever seen on your travels?
"Aside from the multiple times I thought I saw something dart out in front of the bus . . . I watched what looked like an 18-wheeler approaching in my mirror very fast. It was a blizzard, dead of the night, up in the Adirondacks. I kept watching him because I thought he was gonna rear end me. The headlights got closer and closer and all of a sudden they were gone. There had been no exit ramp or anything. I don't know if he went into the ditch or what. I never found out."
How to Clean Your Front-Loading Washing Machine
Front-loading washing machines are energy efficient and use less detergent than top-loaders, but they sometimes have a tendency to harbor mold and unpleasant smells. By giving your washing machine a quick clean once a month, you'll keep your front-loader fresh, which means cleaner clothes, too. This eco-friendly method doesn't use bleach, costs only pennies to make, and comes together with ingredients you already have on hand.
What You'll Need:
- 2 cups vinegar
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup water
- Scrub sponge
Directions:
- Start by mixing together the baking soda and water in a small bowl. This is going to be the "detergent" for cleaning the washing machine. Pour the vinegar into a measuring cup and head over to your washing machine.
- Add the baking soda mixture to the detergent container of your machine and pour the vinegar into the drum. Set your washer to normal load at the hottest water setting. Close the door and start the machine, letting it do all the hard work for you. The baking soda and vinegar naturally break up mineral deposits and any mold growth while cleaning and refreshing your washing machine.
- Use a clean scrubber to rub around the opening of the washing machine, removing stubborn mold or residue. Wipe clean with fresh water.
- Your washing machine is sparkling clean and ready to do a load of laundry! Give your front-loader a cleaning once a month to keep your clothes smelling fresh and your machine working in tip-top condition.
- Once you're finished with your washing machine, take a few minutes to clean your dryer too!
WTF: A Woman Was Denied a Second Job Interview For Asking This Question
On Monday, March 13, Taylor Byrnes tweeted screenshots of the response she received from SkiptheDishes after asking about pay and benefits following her first interview at the food delivery service in Winnipeg, Canada. "Applied for a job at @SkipTheDishes. They cancelled my interview b/c I asked about wages/benefits," she wrote in a now-viral tweet.
Applied for a job at @SkipTheDishes. They cancelled my interview b/c I asked about wages/benefits @CBC @CBCNews @ctvwinnipeg #boycottSkip http://pic.twitter.com/CjBdnFvY1P
- . (@feministjourney) March 13, 2017
"Hi Victoria, I had another question that I wanted to ask you," Byrnes's initial email reads. "If I do end up filling this position, how much do you think I'll be getting paid an hour? Benefits will also be included, right? Sorry, I just thought I should ask now. Thanks for your time and have a lovely day," she concluded.
Screenshots show that Victoria responded, "Hello Taylor, your questions reveal that your priorities are not in sync with those of SkipTheDishes. At this time we will not be following through with our meeting this Thursday." In a follow-up email, Victoria called out qualities the company looks for in employees, including "hard work and perseverance in pursuit of company goals as opposed to focusing on compensation."
"For these reasons, questions about compensation and benefits at such an early stage is a concern related to organizational fit."
After the screenshots were posted and shared across social media, Byrnes received yet another response from the company, this time from its cofounder, who expressed disappointment with the way the situation was handled. The company also shared its screenshots on its Twitter page to rectify the backlash from people who were calling for a boycott of SkipTheDishes.
(1/2) The email to Taylor does not represent #SkipTheDishes team values. We have followed up to offer heartfelt apologies & a 2nd interview. http://pic.twitter.com/XKYWsHXj7P
- SkipTheDishes (@SkipTheDishes) March 14, 2017
(2/2) We do share compensation & it's OK to ask. We are coaching internally to ensure this doesn't happen again. @CBC @CBCNews @CTVWinnipeg
- SkipTheDishes (@SkipTheDishes) March 14, 2017
SkipTheDishes cofounder Joshua Simair addressed the controversy in an emailed statement to POPSUGAR, writing, "We are very disappointed in how it was handled. We do share a compensation package prior to hiring. As soon as we became aware of it on Monday, we reached out to Taylor to apologize for the email and reschedule her interview."
Simair also revealed that the company would be changing internal policies to make sure it doesn't happen again. "We've also addressed the email internally and will be providing additional training. We are very committed to our community, employees and continuing to grow and create employment opportunities in the Prairies."
Although Byrnes has received an outpouring of support for standing up for herself, there is still a dispute over whether or not her questions were appropriate to ask. Seeing as it's important for women to ask about pay upfront so that they get what they deserve, we'd say the answer is yes.
We've reached out to Byrnes for comment and will update this story if we hear back.
The Sweet and Uplifting Way Princess Diana Told William About His Father's Affair
Prince William had an especially close bond with his late mother, Princess Diana, and has talked openly about their close relationship in recent months ahead of the 20th anniversary of her tragic death. While William hasn't been quite as outspoken about the impact that his parents' divorce had on him and his brother, Prince Harry, there are a few instances that likely influenced and cemented the connection he had with Diana at the time.
Diana and Prince Charles separated in 1992 amid rumors of infidelity on both sides, but particularly concerning Charles's ongoing affair with former girlfriend Camilla Parker-Bowles. It was in 1986 that Charles rekindled their romance, and when Diana caught wind of it, she didn't back down; the normally shy princess pulled a badass move when she confronted Camilla (at her sister's birthday party, no less) about the affair, destroying what little harmony was left in her marriage. By 1995, Diana made another brazen gesture when she did a sit-down, televised interview with BBC's Martin Bashir. In it, she not only made the infamous quote, "There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded," but she also revealed that she told William, then 13, about his father's extramarital affair. "I told William, 'If you find someone you love in life, you must hang onto it and look after it,'" Diana said. "'And if you are lucky enough to find someone who loves you, then you must protect it.'"
She went on to admit that she didn't want to end the marriage, saying, "I don't want a divorce, but, obviously, we need clarity on a situation that has been of enormous discussion over the last three years," adding, "I await my husband's decision of which way we are all going to go." In an unprecedented move, the queen sent letters to Diana and Charles requesting that they divorce immediately. The divorce was finalized on Aug. 28, 1996, and Diana was killed in a car accident almost one year later. And judging by William's picture-perfect relationship with wife Kate Middleton, we have to imagine that he has taken his mother's advice to heart.
Evan Peters Thought Emma Roberts Was "So Weird" When They First Met
Emma Roberts and Evan Peters are well-known for their romance on and off the screen (they frequently costar in American Horror Story together), but it might surprise fans to know that their real-life relationship started on a completely different project. In 2012, just a year after Evan's breakout role on the first season of AHS, the two worked together on the comedy film Adult World. While Emma was immediately smitten with her costar, Evan didn't catch the love bug until well after they finished filming.
"Everyone thought we dated on the movie and we didn't - not for a long time after," Emma revealed on an episode of Chelsea Lately. "I actually, on the set, was like, 'Oh yeah, we're totally gonna date.' And I would, like, flirt with him, which ended up looking like I had something in my eye because I'd be like, 'Hey, what's up?' And he literally didn't speak to me the entire movie. He thought I was so weird." Even though the couple have faced a few breakups (and makeups) over the years, their love seems to be thriving since getting back together in September 2016. Plus, they're set to share the screen once more when Emma returns for American Horror Story: Cult this season.
This Is How Much Calcium You Need - and the Best Places to Get It
There's a list of nutrients we know we need to consume every single day in order to stay healthy. Calcium is an important one that often gets overlooked, especially by women. In fact, Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, CSSD, nutritionist and health expert, told POPSUGAR that "females are less likely than males to get adequate amounts of calcium from food."
This is an issue that needs to be addressed immediately, because if we're not getting the proper nutrition our body needs, we won't be able to achieve our fitness goals or maintain our overall health; calcium is essential for bone health.
"Weight-bearing exercise is important for maintaining strong bones, but this also requires a healthy diet with adequate calcium," Sass said. "And calcium is needed for muscle contractions. Inadequate calcium over time can increase the risk of bone fractures."
Here's the first thing you need to know: Sass says women need between 748 to 968 milligrams of calcium a day, while the National Institutes of Health recommend 1,000 milligrams. It may sound like a lot, but if you eat the right foods, you won't have a problem at all hitting that mark. Below is a list of foods that Sass recommends eating on a daily basis, as they're very high in calcium:
- Dairy products
- Sardines
- Salmon (with edible bones)
- Cooked collard greens
- White beans
- Black eyes peas
- Sesame seeds
- Bok choy
- Seaweed
- Kale
- Broccoli
- Almonds
There's something in this list to suit every kind of diet, whether you're vegan or a meat eater.
"More than 99 percent of calcium in the human body is found in bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong," Sass said. You also need all that calcium for proper nerve and hormonal function. So don't skip out on these nutritionally dense foods! Your body needs every bit of calcium it can get.
Every Single Naked Dress Jennifer Lopez Has Worn Since 1997
You might think that Jennifer Lopez's streak of dresses with necklines down to her belly button and slits up to her thighs started with that famous Versace green dress she wore to the Grammys in the '90s, but let us tell you that after intense research, we've come to the conclusion the naked dress trend was started by J Lo much, much earlier.
The singer and actress was truly the pioneer of the barely there dress that has now invaded the red carpet, starting with no backs in 1997 and ending most recently with sheer gowns and jumpsuits that leave little to the imagination. Here, for your viewing pleasure, is every single naked dress (yes, every single one!) that J Lo has graced us with.
The Scary Side Effect You Could Suffer After Your Next Massage
When I'm low on cash but highly stressed, I turn to affordable beauty treatments to soothe my frazzled nerves. One of my favorites is receiving a deep-tissue massage in Chinatown, NYC. I usually pay about $40 (tip included!) for a full hour of bliss. However, after a recent massage - which was wonderful, by the way - I started feeling sick. Really sick: about an hour after the rubdown, I threw up.
I couldn't believe it. I'd felt nauseated post-massage before, but never enough to actually hurl. And by the way, after puking, I felt great (from head to toe . . . stomach included). In attempts to find out why this happened to me, I conducted a deep Google search, which revealed nothing quite informative enough for my liking.
Luckily, when I'm desperate to solve a problem, my job as a beauty editor allows me to consult experts. I reached out to Heather Wyborny, massage therapist at the esteemed Golden Door spa in San Marcos, CA, to get to the bottom of this phenomenon.
First, I needed to know what a deep-tissue massage actually did, because, yes, I was just blindly going in for treatment. "A deep-tissue massage reduces heart rate, blood pressure, and levels of stress hormones, enhances immune function, boosts levels of endorphins and serotonin, and increases blood circulation," explained Wyborny. Therapists use firm, concentrated pressure to break through tension of deeper muscle and connective tissue - which can sometimes hurt.
That soreness is the most common side effect of deep tissue massage. My vom-fest was a pretty atypical reaction. On my short-lived Google search, I had read that nausea was due to "toxins being released into the body," which sounded a bit hokey to me. "Massage stimulates movement of the lymphatic system and byproducts of muscle metabolism," Wyborny clarified.
A deeper dig into the lymphatic system's functions revealed some interesting information. In fact, one of the primary responsibilities of this part of the body is responsible for removing waste from the blood. Lymph then shuttles said waste off to be filtered through the liver and kidneys, and eventually excreted.
This waste can be anything from allergens and excess fat to viruses and bacteria. If you have too much lymph in your body, it can build up in the tissues under the skin's surface - the same tissues that are manipulated during a massage. It would make sense, then, that a deep-tissue rubdown would cause your body to suddenly be flooded with those toxins in your lymph, making you suddenly feel icky. Not as hokey as I thought!
Headaches aren't uncommon post-massage, especially if your therapist does a lot of deep work in the neck and shoulders, Wyborny remarked. But nausea occurs less frequently, she said, and that one could feel queasy because of dehydration.
Drinking lots of water before and after your appointment is an obvious solution to remedy dehydration (and in turn, nausea). Wyborny also advises sipping on ginger tea and "doing some deep breathing exercises and stretches" after your massage to allay any signs of illness.
If, like me, you've experienced an upset stomach after what was supposed to be a relaxing experience, you might want to consider switching up the style of massage therapy you receive. Wyborny recommended opting for a light Swedish massage. This technique consists of long, gliding strokes instead of the more probing pressure of deep-tissue work. "Or just focus on scalp or feet," suggested Wyborny.
I definitely haven't sworn off massages for good - and I'll even be going back to my spot in Chinatown. But I'll be sure I'm plenty hydrated first. Otherwise, I'll be searching for a new way to de-stress on the cheap! Pedicure, anyone?
16 Things That Are Very, Very Hard to Do If You Have Young Children
Perhaps you've noticed that your small children have made getting certain things accomplished just a tad bit more difficult - if not very, very hard. Sure, there are the obvious scenarios such as peeing alone, getting a full night's sleep, and talking on the phone without interruption, but here are a few other things that I think I just may resolve to do once my kids are a bit more grown-up.
A Catholic Nun Perfectly Explains the Major Hypocrisy of the "Pro-Life" Argument
A Catholic nun's explanation of the term "pro-life" from 2004 is resurfacing after recent antiabortion events. On PBS's Now With Bill Moyers, Sister Joan Chittister explained why being against abortion doesn't mean you're pro-life.
Here's the full quote:
"I do not believe that just because you're opposed to abortion that that makes you pro-life. In fact, I think in many cases, your morality is deeply lacking if all you want is a child born but not a child fed, not a child educated, not a child housed. And why would I think that you don't? Because you don't want any tax money to go there. That's not pro-life. That's pro-birth. We need a much broader conversation on what the morality of pro-life is."
Chittister's position is not only informed by her faith, but also her academic experience: she's written over 50 books and has multiple degrees (including a doctorate).
The crux of Chittister's point is that there's a difference between advocating for birth and advocating for that child's entire life. If antiabortion proponents are truly "pro-life," then those same legislators would not argue for defunding programs like those that provide school lunches or health care. Many who oppose abortion also oppose access to contraceptives. Antiabortion congressmen have consistently also advocated for defunding Planned Parenthood, which provides women with birth control options.
Liberals have pointed to Chittister's quote as an argument for the social benefits that Republicans hope to limit without providing feasible options for women if they cannot obtain abortions.
Diastasis Recti: The Weird Reason You Still Look Pregnant
It's called the "mummy tummy" or the "mommy pooch." It's that leftover belly that makes many new moms look and feel as if they're still a few months pregnant. And it's common: 12 months after childbirth, one in three women still have it.
What Is Diastasis Recti?
The medical name is diastasis recti, or rectus abdominis diastasis (RAD). The rectus abdominis muscles - those "six-pack" muscles of the abdominal wall - are separated by a piece of fibrous connective tissue called the linea alba. During pregnancy, the linea alba stretches to accommodate the growing fetus, creating a gap between the rectus abdominis muscles. Diastasis recti occurs when that separation persists after childbirth and in some cases becomes even wider. Though it's sometimes seen in men, the classic profile is a small, fit woman who carries a large fetus or twins to term. Other risk factors include older age at pregnancy, multiple pregnancies, weak pelvic floor muscles, and multiple c-sections.
How Do I Know If I Have It?
To see if you have RAD, lie on your back with your knees bent and place a finger just above your belly button. As you lift your head off the floor, note the distance between the two now-activated rectus abdominis muscles. If the gap is roughly two centimeters or more, you have diastasis recti.
Some women may even see a bulge in between the two muscles, a small protrusion of abdominal contents. But it's not as weird as it seems: In diastasis recti, there is not an actual defect in the abdominal wall. Because the linea alba is still connecting the rectus abdominis, there's no risk that abdominal contents will protrude and get "stuck" between the muscles, which distinguishes the condition from a hernia. In fact, RAD generally doesn't cause any medical problems at all.
How Can I Get Rid of It?
Good news! It's treatable with exercise. A handful of small studies have shown that certain exercise programs, when done in either the pre- or post-natal period, can both prevent and correct RAD. In the only randomized controlled trial, 50 women were assigned to complete either no exercise or an exercise protocol focused on abdominal wall strengthening. Those randomized to the exercise group showed substantial decreases in the size of the diastasis recti compared to those who didn't complete the exercise program.
A more recent study retrospectively analyzed 63 women who completed the Dia Method, an exercise program that emphasizes isometric contractions of the transverse abdominis, resistance training, and cardiovascular exercise. All 63 women experienced complete resolution of diastasis recti. Other programs, like the MuTu System and the Tupler Technique, have gained popularity after anecdotal successes but haven't been formally studied.
What If Exercise Doesn't Help?
For women who don't achieve success with exercise, surgical management is an option. Though this is generally considered cosmetic, there is some evidence that surgical repair can improve pulmonary and abdominal wall function. The procedure, called a plication, involves the placement of internal stitches to bring the rectus abdominis muscles closer together. Some surgeons may recommend a tummy tuck at the same time. But surgery is a last resort, and women should only consider it after they're finished with family building.
Did you experience diastasis recti? What (if anything) did you do to resolve the issue?
5 Things No One Ever Told You About Raising a Toddler (but You Need to Know)
Sometimes parenting books feel like they're a dime a dozen - a handful cross my desk each week promising to provide the definitive method for raising sweet, well-adjusted tots - spoiler alert: few actually do. But when I learned that Dr. Tovah Klein, a mother of three and the director of the Barnard College Center For Toddler Development in NYC who has been observing toddlers for over 20 years, would be speaking at my son's preschool PTA meeting, I made sure I was seated in the front row to hear her philosophy and learnings firsthand. Dr. Klein's How Toddlers Thrive: What Parents Can Do Today For Children Ages 2-5 to Plant the Seeds of Lifelong Success ($19, originally $25) was already generating buzz, and after hearing her in person, I understand why.
Based on the philosophy that toddlers are not miniadults, that they're individuals fueled by a desire to know was just the beginning. In just 45 minutes Dr. Klein took us deep into the magical world of the toddler years and got to the root of many of our biggest frustrations with our tots. I learned a few fascinating philosophies about young kids that have already helped me better understand my child. I highly suggest you pick up a copy, but in the interim, here are a handful of teasers you'll find in the book.
Source: Flickr user edmdusty
How Betsy DeVos Literally Bought Her Position as Education Secretary
Betsy DeVos, billionaire Republican donor, pretty much just bought a position in the highest tiers of American government. Following a shockingly poor Senate education committee hearing performance, DeVos's confirmation was vehemently opposed by Democrats and two Republicans. An effort to sway another Republican during an all-night session in which the Democrats commandeered the floor was unsuccessful, and DeVos was confirmed in February by Vice President Mike Pence, who had to break a tie vote.
While Republicans rarely break rank and vote against their party, Democrats had an especially difficult time convincing their Republican counterparts to vote against her, likely for one simple reason: the DeVos family has donated thousands of dollars to sitting Republican senators.
Here's how much they received from DeVos: #DeVosVote #NoOnDeVos #DumpDeVos http://pic.twitter.com/Fhm6R9awbf
- CAP Education (@EdProgress) February 7, 2017
The Federal Election Commission requires the full disclosure of campaign donations, and, as is apparent from this list, DeVos donated to at least 23 senators' reelection campaigns - including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. It prompts the question: had DeVos not consistently distributed her wealth to Republican officials, would she have been confirmed?
DeVos has never worked in a public school, never sent a child to public school, and never attended public school herself - and now she'll impact the system on a national level. DeVos has also long championed charter schools as an alternative to public schools, suggesting the entire system might change dramatically under her direction. After her disastrous committee hearing, she allegedly copied written answers from an Obama administration website that she submitted to defend her qualifications. If that's not unqualified, what would it take for Republican senators to consider her an "incompetent" cabinet appointment?
5 Easy Hair Hacks You'll Be Happy You Learned This Summer
Summer brings out the worst in everyone's hair. Fine strands frizz up, curls shrink up with the humidity, and long locks transform into a sweaty mess. This season, we turned to Chrissy Teigen's mane man and T3 stylist David Lopez to give us his on-set hair hacks. If these tricks can hold up at swimsuit shoots on the beach, then they'll do the job for you, too! Plus, you'll be amazed at the time you'll save on styling with the two-minute updo and five-minute blowout secrets David shares ahead.
Debra Messing Calls Out Ivanka Trump: "It's Time to Do Something"
Debra Messing isn't done resisting Donald Trump's contentious presidency. The Will and Grace actress delivered a moving - albeit hilarious - acceptance speech at the 28th annual GLAAD Media Awards on May 6 and addressed the "very bad, and very orange man in our White House . . . at least a few days a month," she joked.
Messing, who took home GLAAD's Excellence in Media Award, called on all Americans to resist Trump's controversial policies and even urged them to text the Congressional switchboard in Washington DC. "Don't be shy, I know all of your cell phones are open because you've been taking selfies all night," she quipped.
Messing then spoke directly to Ivanka Trump, whom she referred to as "the secretary of state," saying, "It is not enough to simply say that women's issues are important to you. It's time to do something." Watch her full nine-minute acceptance speech above to hear her empowering call for action that will inspire you.
Chocolate Mauve Is the Delicious New Color Trend You Should Try This Fall
As we seek out dye inspiration for our next salon appointment, we're keeping very specific characteristics in mind. The style should be luminous, blend well with our natural hair hue, and flatter our complexion. Bonus points if the color verges on subtle, making it appropriate to rock in the workplace. We've just found the Fall color trend of our fantasies: chocolate mauve hair.
Instagram user @HannahThePainter aka Hannah Edelman, who owns the Bushwick-based studio Brush In Hand, took to Reddit to flaunt the above color masterpiece.
Using colorful hues of Pravana Vivids, she re-created natural brown tones mixing purple, orange, pink, and other shades. "The darkest brown started with red, yellow, and green. Then I added orange and purple and other random sh*t until I liked what I saw," Edelman explained.
Her client (Marlena) is naturally a brunette and had the roots to match, so the colorist custom-blended five different tints: dark brown, a warm medium brown, mauve, and two different pink tones.
"I took irregular sections of her hair, always on some kind of diagonal, and painted them. Most of them are color melted," Edelman told POPSUGAR via email. By melting the different brown hues into mauve, or mauve into pink, she created delicate variations of the original five shades. "That gave this look a subtle dimension, almost an iridescence," she said.
As for the placement of the color, Edelman painted light brown around Marlena's face per her request, then painted mauve and light pink on her top layers of hair, concentrating darker colors on lower layers. "Even though the color is unnatural, following the light/dark placement that occurs naturally is always a good idea," she shared. "I think that's what makes this toe the line of natural and unnatural."
That said, you may need some prior color experience to achieve this look. (Edelman noted this color would work well on "lucky people who are naturally light blond.") Otherwise, you'll need to transition your strands to a paler shade. Edelman had lifted the majority of Marlena's hair to a level 10 blonde, the lightest possible hue. After the client had grown about three inches of dark roots, Edelman used the balayage technique to connect her natural color to rainbow hues.
"The balayage transition makes this color low maintenance," she told POPSUGAR. "She won't have to worry about roots for at least three months." Edelman remarked that this type of look will fade back to blond in about this amount of time, making it ideal for someone who always wants to switch up their style.
According to Edelman, her client was looking for a "toned-down but not totally normal" hue as she'll soon be job hunting. We think she totally nailed it! If you're now on a quest for a salon that can dye your hair a similar color, this colorist advises that you search for someone who specializes in using Pravana Vivids. "Vivid work isn't something many people care to specialize in because it's a niche," she noted. Alternatively, you can ask your colorist for a full head of balayage, then a mauve toner or a color melt using semi-permanent light brown and mauve tints. Keep reading to see this gorgeous look from all angles!
I Wore the Same Mascara For Over a Decade, but This One Made Me Switch
My answer to the question "What mascara do you use?" was the same for more than 10 years, and it rolled off my tongue like clockwork. I swore by an under-$15 drugstore mascara whose thin brush elongated and thickened my eyelashes like no other high-end product ever could. "I have it in my purse if you want to see it," I've said countless times. My steadfast resistance to change made me question even the most trusted sources' recommendations because I knew I had found the only mascara I'd ever need. But when a POPSUGAR Beauty editor messaged me at work one day to tell me about a new mascara that I had to try, I was intrigued. She sent me a link to Tarte Maneater Voluptuous Mascara ($23), which she had just gotten an early preview of and thought I might like. Many exclamation points followed her enthusiastic advice. "Doesn't clump; coat after coat after coat," she promised.
I just so happened to be near the end of my drugstore tube, and I was intrigued. Not normally one to pass up yet another purchase of my standby mascara, I had a feeling this one could be worth it. Trusting our resident beauty expert and feeling excited to try a hyped-up product, I caved and ordered one Tarte Maneater mascara, hoping I wouldn't regret the slightly steeper price than I was used to. Spoiler alert: I most certainly would not. In fact, after my first time using Maneater, I knew I was hooked. This was the one. Tarte promises 23 times more lash volume after two coats of this mascara, and . . . whoa. I'm convinced that's not an exaggeration.
In my experience, longer lashes benefit from a mascara with superthin bristles, and Maneater has dozens of tiny, delicate bristles that are pros at separating and elongating every lash. The volumizing black liquid thickens my lashes and manages to curl them upward at the same time. The formula also contains jojoba extract, which keeps lashes strong and hydrated throughout the day, preventing any flaking.
The product speaks for itself, so read on to see Tarte Maneater in action and zoom in on the results. If you're like me, you'll be rethinking your favorite mascara pretty soon.
1 Mom's Honest Perspective After Her Child Was Left to Die in a Hot Car
Thirty-nine. That's the number of heatstroke deaths of children who were left in hot cars in 2016. That's 15 more than 2015's final count.
Many parents hear the news stories about these deaths and immediately think, "I could never do that." Maybe that's true, but there's a good chance that the parents of the 39 children lost in 2016 thought the exact same thing. These hot car accidents happen so often that it seems as if they'll never stop being "a thing," but one family is choosing to speak out about their daughter, Lily, whose dad forgot her in the back of his car.
On the day 5-month-old Lily died, her dad forgot to drop her off at day care and drove straight to work without realizing, until he went to pick her up at the end of the day. Lily's mother, who has forgiven her husband for his thoughtless mistake, told KHOU about that life-changing day.
"Normally, I take the older two kids to school, but today, he was trying to bless me and took all three of them. . . . When he walked up to the [day care] door, they just looked at him and said, 'She hasn't been here all day.' There were 15 seconds of 'How could he do that?' Immediately instant forgiveness washed over me."
Since her daughter's death, Lily's mom has been writing letters to other parents who have gone through this same nightmare and has shared her story on camera to show that healing is possible - that this could happen to anyone. "If I can help one family, one child . . . " she said. "It's important for people to know that it happens to good people."
This Artist Turns Disney Princesses Into Parents - and the Results Are Perfection
Illustrators have had fun turning beloved Disney princesses into all sorts of things, from '50s-style pinup girls to Star Wars heroines. The only artistic mashup we haven't seen yet happens to be one that would most likely follow all the "happily ever after" storylines - what these fairy-tale characters would look like as parents.
Thankfully, artist Isaiah Stephens lets us in on what it'd really be like for Ariel to have a food-throwing toddler, for Belle to breastfeed, and for Jasmine to rock a baby bump with nine amazingly accurate depictions - all shared on his Facebook page and Instagram account. From Pocahontas to Queen Elsa, it's fun to see what realistically comes after their storybook ending. Take a look.
Kesha's Rainbow Is Full of Bangers, Hymns, and It May Be the Most Important Album of the Year
Kesha's legal battle didn't just capture headlines and our collective attention as she fought to be released by her label to avoid working with the man who had allegedly sexually assaulted her, it threatened to define her - and overshadow her career. Now, despite the legal setbacks in her case, Kesha has earned an incredible triumph with the release of her new album, Rainbow. It's officially Kesha's third studio album, but there's something so phoenix-like about it; this is the Kesha we know, and yet it's a side we hadn't necessarily seen this clearly yet, at least musically.
With Rainbow, the talented songwriter has possibly delivered the album of her career with tracks that are vulnerable, honest, cathartic, and yes - total bangers. The range and variety of the tracks are impressive, but even more so is the fact that it's still a completely cohesive album. But enough about how incredible the album is on the whole - let's talk about which songs truly make Rainbow one of 2017's best albums.
"Bastards"
"Don't let the bastards get you down," Kesha sings, as much for you as for herself. The opening track is a low-key f*ck you anthem and reminder to keep your head up. It's the perfect way to kick off this collection of her work.
"Hymn"
Another song that offers comfort and camaraderie, "Hymn" rallies the hopeless to become hopeful - and with Kesha's raw vocals (and bangin' chorus), it succeeds.
"Praying"
Kesha's first single off of Rainbow may be the most direct missive about her very public personal struggle with Dr. Luke. Even without context, this song is a goosebump-inciting, satisfying ballad that you have to turn all the way up.
"Woman"
You don't have to be a "motherf*ckin' WOMAN" to love this song, but goddamn, if you are, this is your new mantra. It's powerful, rocking, and so much fun, and if you're like me, you haven't been able to stop playing it since the single came out.
"Rainbow"
Kesha's title track has a lot to live up to, and it does. Neither the album's loudest roar (that'd be "Woman") nor the most mournful exhale (that's "Praying"), it instead has its own subtle beauty. It's stunning without being too showy.
"Godzilla"
Accompanied by just a guitar, Kesha takes a metaphor that's almost silly and makes it a brilliantly searing satire (that's also really fun to sing along to).
"Spaceship"
The final track has old-school country twang with old-school country heartbreak behind it. She's given us everything with this album, she seems to say, but also communicates that the more we take, the more she grows.
This Guy Cosplays Flawlessly as Both Disney Princes AND Princesses - We're in Awe
We've seen a lot of Disney princess cosplayers out there, but 22-year-old Richard Schaefer might be the best. The Orange County, CA, design student, who has worked as a Jungle Cruise skipper at Disneyland in the past, goes by the Instagram name TheOfficialAriel and for a good reason: his transformations into Disney princesses like Ariel are flat-out magical. Schaefer cosplays as both male and female Disney characters using a combination of detailed wigs, intricate costumes, colorful contacts, and some seriously impressive makeup skills.
From Disneybounding at park events to cosplaying at large conventions, Richard does it all . . . with the poise, cheerful attitude, and on-point contour of a true Disney princess, of course. Take a look at some of his most jaw-droppingly gorgeous looks, then follow his Disney-focused Instagram account to see even more of his enviable costume work.
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.
Kesha's Rainbow Is Full of Bangers, Hymns, and It May Be the Most Important Album of the Year
Kesha's legal battle didn't just capture headlines and our collective attention as she fought to be released by her label to avoid working with the man who had allegedly sexually assaulted her, it threatened to define her - and overshadow her career. Now, despite the legal setbacks in her case, Kesha has earned an incredible triumph with the release of her new album, Rainbow. It's officially Kesha's third studio album, but there's something so phoenix-like about it; this is the Kesha we know, and yet it's a side we hadn't necessarily seen this clearly yet, at least musically.
With Rainbow, the talented songwriter has possibly delivered the album of her career with tracks that are vulnerable, honest, cathartic, and yes - total bangers. The range and variety of the tracks are impressive, but even more so is the fact that it's still a completely cohesive album. But enough about how incredible the album is on the whole - let's talk about which songs truly make Rainbow one of 2017's best albums.
"Bastards"
"Don't let the bastards get you down," Kesha sings, as much for you as for herself. The opening track is a low-key f*ck you anthem and reminder to keep your head up. It's the perfect way to kick off this collection of her work.
"Hymn"
Another song that offers comfort and camaraderie, "Hymn" rallies the hopeless to become hopeful - and with Kesha's raw vocals (and bangin' chorus), it succeeds.
"Praying"
Kesha's first single off of Rainbow may be the most direct missive about her very public personal struggle with Dr. Luke. Even without context, this song is a goosebump-inciting, satisfying ballad that you have to turn all the way up.
"Woman"
You don't have to be a "motherf*ckin' WOMAN" to love this song, but goddamn, if you are, this is your new mantra. It's powerful, rocking, and so much fun, and if you're like me, you haven't been able to stop playing it since the single came out.
"Rainbow"
Kesha's title track has a lot to live up to, and it does. Neither the album's loudest roar (that'd be "Woman") nor the most mournful exhale (that's "Praying"), it instead has its own subtle beauty. It's stunning without being too showy.
"Godzilla"
Accompanied by just a guitar, Kesha takes a metaphor that's almost silly and makes it a brilliantly searing satire (that's also really fun to sing along to).
"Spaceship"
The final track has old-school country twang with old-school country heartbreak behind it. She's given us everything with this album, she seems to say, but also communicates that the more we take, the more she grows.
Fourth Grader Invents Genius Device to Help Parents Remember Their Kid Is in the Car
We're constantly looking for simple tactics in life to help our memories - leaving the car keys in the refrigerator to remember to take leftovers or Post-its all over the house with various reminders - but this fourth grade girl just invented a genius device to make sure our babies are never forgotten in the back of the car. Sophie Rapson's mom Jenny dreaded the "Invention Convention" at school each and every year, but the night before her 9-year-old daughter's idea was due, they brainstormed about some of the biggest global problems that needed solving.
Sophie and Jenny decided they needed to come up with something that would prevent parents from forgetting their children in the car. It's an issue that makes us cringe and shake our heads in disbelief, but it's a real problem that has taken many children's lives. They figured out that they "would need something to attach to the parent, and something to attach to the child's car seat, and something that would stretch in between," Jenny wrote in a blog post. "And it would have to be adjustable, to work in a variety of different-sized cars."
Their brainstorm session turned into a concept they named "Sophie's Baby Forget-Me-Not" and although it may seem like an easy invention, it can save your child's life. "Sophie's Baby Forget-Me-Not" is made of Velcro loops and stretchy cord. By attaching one end of the cord to the baby's car seat straps and the other end of the cord to your keys after getting in the car, you will never forget your keys or your baby in the car. "Sophie's not selling her invention, but she doesn't mind if you copy her design - she wants parents everywhere to make these simple devices and use them every day to ensure no one ever accidentally leaves their babies in the car again," Jenny wrote.
Watch the video above to see how Sophie's invention works, and be inspired to make your own. Although forgetting your baby in the car seems like a mistake no parent would ever make, it's a scarily prevalent issue and Sophie's invention is an awesome way to help.
17 Horror Comedies You Need to Get Your Eyeballs On
When it comes to scary movies, we're always looking for ways to spook ourselves. Sometimes, though, there's a great divide; there are those who love horror, and those who love funny flicks about Halloween. But what about the viewer who enjoys that special film genre that blends comedy and horror into one hilarious, terrifying experience? They're not quite those spooky movies meant for wimps, but they're not really full-blown horror movies either. Keep scrolling to see a selection of films that fall in this category, and get some scares - and laughs - into your Halloween season.
In "This Doesn't Look Good" News, FKA Twigs Appears to Be Getting Cozy With a Male Model
Are Robert Pattinson and FKA Twigs on the rocks? The 29-year-old singer was spotted spending time with French model Brieuc Breitenstein while vacationing in Ibiza, Spain, on Friday. The two were photographed getting kind of close while taking in the scenery (Brieuc appeared to be nuzzling into her hair), and later that evening, they were seen walking side by side in matching all-white outfits. Meanwhile, Rob added to the split rumors when he was snapped having dinner with close friend Katy Perry in LA earlier in the week; the actor has been busy promoting his new film Good Time on both coasts.
Twigs's outing comes just weeks after Robert was asked about his relationship status in an interview with Howard Stern, to which he replied that he and Twigs were "kind of" engaged. The couple first got together back in August 2014, and engagement rumors were sparked in April 2015. The two have said a lot of sweet things about each other over the years but have managed to keep their romance pretty low-key (especially compared to Rob's last relationship with Twilight costar Kristen Stewart).
One of the last times we saw Rob and Twigs out and about together was back in May, when they took a PDA-filled stroll through LA around Rob's 31st birthday. We don't know whether Twigs and Brieuc are just friends or if her relationship with Rob is on the rocks, but we'll let you decide for yourselves.
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