Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mardi 15 août 2017
Emilia Clarke Says Ser Jorah Has Always Been "the One" For Daenerys Targaryen
The "will they or won't they" dynamic between Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) and Jon Snow (Kit Harington) on Game of Thrones has every fan feeling some type of way, but now we finally know what Dany herself thinks about the possibility of a romance between the two characters. While shedding some light on the scene where Drogon allows Jon to pet him (that Targaryen blood must smell pretty great!) during a behind-the-scenes look at the most recent episode, "Eastwatch," Clarke acknowledged that the Dragon Queen's googly eyes are for real.
"She sees his interaction with her dragons, and it's an attractive quality for her," Clarke said, also taking note of Ser Jorah's disappointment upon seeing the two together when he arrives on Dragonstone. "Me and Jon Snow just chillin' on a cliff by ourselves," she joked. "Don't read too much into it."
It's hard not to read at least a little into it, when it appears that a love triangle between Dany, Jon, and Jorah is in the works (especially after we got a glimpse of Jorah's true feelings for Dany in an earlier episode). "It's one of the most tender moments you'll see from Daenerys this season," Clarke said of Dany and Jorah's emotional reunion. "The thing about Ser Jorah is that he has been the one from the very beginning. I think he has an ability to see right through her."
Love triangle or no love triangle, let's just hope Jon and Jorah survive their ridiculously dangerous mission to capture a wight in episode six.
Jimmy Fallon Fights Back Tears in Heartbreaking Monologue On Charlottesville
The normally apolitical Jimmy Fallon ditched his usual jokey facade on Aug. 14 to deliver a heartwrenching monologue on Charlottesville which left the late-night host - and many of us watching at home - fighting back tears.
Fallon explained that while his show wasn't political, he felt a "responsibility to stand up against intolerance and extremism as a human being" after watching the events unfold on television. "My daughters were in the next room playing, and I'm thinking, 'How can I explain to them that there's so much hatred in this world?'They're two years old and four years old. They don't know what hate is," Fallon said, choking back tears and adding, "They go to the playground and they have friends of all races and backgrounds, they just play, and they laugh, and they have fun. But as kids grow up, they need people to look up to-to show them what's right and good"
The Tonight Show host then went on to condemn President Donald Trump's handling of the events, noting "the fact that it took the President two days to come out and clearly denounce racists and white supremacists is shameful" and evoking Heather Heyer, the 32-year-old woman who lost her life when a car drove into a crowd of protesters, saying that she "died standing up for what's right."
In closing his monologue, Fallon drove home the fact that the White House's actions were shameful, but the American people now have a responsibility to take action where our president didn't. "We all need to stand against what is wrong, acknowledge that racism exists, and stand up for what is right and civil and kind," he said, his voice once again breaking, "And to show the next generation that we haven't forgotten how hard people have fought for human rights, we cannot do this. We can't go backward."
Watch the full, powerful clip from the Tonight Show above - after which, we recommend hugging everyone in your general vicinity and remembering that we have the power to change things in this country - so long as we remember to stand up for what's right.
The Most Dangerous Sunscreens For Kids (and They're Probably Hiding in Your Beach Bag)
Along with wearing sunglasses and hats, sunscreen should always be a part of your family's Summer routine - but is the sunscreen in your beach bag right now actually safe? The EWG released its annual list of the sunscreens with the worst ratings for 2017 to alert parents.
The sunscreens that made the list have potentially harmful chemicals - oxybenzone (which can disrupt the hormone system) and retinyl palmitate (which may actually trigger skin damage on sun-exposed skin) - and high SPFs that don't actually do any more to protect your child than an SPF 30-50. Additionally, some formulas come in a spray that won't completely cover your little one's skin and could be inhaled into their lungs.
If any of these are in your arsenal, toss them and opt for one of these safe sunscreens instead.
18 (Mostly Thirsty) Reactions to You Know Who's Sexy Game of Thrones Return
Warning: Spoilers for Game of Thrones below!
The fifth episode of Game of Thrones season seven, "Eastwatch," is notable for many reasons, but chief among them is how f*cking hot Gendry is. The long-awaited return of Robert Baratheon's bastard had fans drooling from the moment Ser Davos first spots him working as a blacksmith in Flea Bottom to the scene when he bashes some heads in with a massive hammer. Enjoy each and every one of Twitter's hilarious(ly thirsty) reactions to Gendry's reappearance below.
Miley Cyrus Will Win You Over With Her Wedding Dress
I don't know when or if Miley Cyrus is getting married. While Billy Ray Cyrus posted a photo that suggests she and Liam Hemsworth tied the knot, it hasn't been confirmed. Maybe Miley isn't even thinking about marriage. But in my imaginary world, she walks down the aisle in a pretty spectacular wedding dress. You see, ever since I was young, I looked at Miley as someone who represented versatility. She played two different characters on Hannah Montana, and my younger sister plastered posters of Miley all over her walls, some in which she was dressed up like Hannah, others in which she was just herself in jeans and a three-quarter-sleeved tee. But even when she was just being Miley, the actress and singer looked unique and a little bit quirky.
She's gone through many stages, but there has never been a time when Miley's paid attention to trends. During her rise to fame, she wore flares and cowboy boots, maybe because they were representative of where she came from: Franklin, TN. Post-breakup with Liam Hemsworth (the two have rekindled their relationship and Liam has even been spotted wearing what looks like a wedding band on that finger), Miley kind of went HAM with her wardrobe. And I liked it. What she wore, or didn't wear, was all a part of her personal revolution.
Miley's style at this point could basically be described as costume like. She dressed as a twerking teddy bear and supported LGBT rights in rainbows and big, furry coats. Then, at the 2015 Met Gala, the industry's elite gathered on the red carpet, but Miley stood alone in a cutout Alexander Wang gown. It ended up on some "worst dressed" lists, but I think it was my favorite outfit of the night. It didn't seem like Miley was trying to appear sexy or edgy but just to look like herself.
So now, as outsiders speculate on whether Miley and Liam got hitched, I can't help but to imagine her would-be bridal look. I doubt Miley Cyrus's wedding dress will be all white. It might be neon, a mix of colors, or come with an inflatable skirt. Miley might not wear a wedding dress at all, should she get married. Maybe she'll go naked. She did reveal on the Today show that she prefers to stay out of the fashion conversation: "I don't want people to talk about what I'm wearing. That's usually why I don't wear too much," she said.
One thing's for sure: if Miley Cyrus gets married, her look won't include a ballgown so glamorous that everyone focuses on the pretty (or crazy!) details. They won't be talking about The Dress, because god knows it won't be wearing her. It'll be all about Miley. Read on to see why we know Miley will hit it out of the park on her special day.
Ashley Graham Used a Simple Styling Trick to Make Her Sexy Blue Bikini Pop
By now, we're sure Ashley Graham could write a book about all of the tricks she's learned while on the set of her photo shoots. And her latest bikinigram proves just that. The model, who was shooting her new Swimsuits For All campaign in Jamaica, posted a picture of herself in a sexy blue bikini. She found an easy way to make the swimsuit's bright blue color pop even more by styling it with a pair of matching sunglasses. Have a look at her brilliant styling hack ahead, and shop similar versions of her sunglasses if you want to give this trick a try too.
6 Things We Just Learned About Congress, Straight From a Former Intern
Ever wondered what goes on day-by-day in Congress? So have we. Luckily, one Reddit user who says they just finished up an internship with Congress has heard our prayers and decided to answer them. This week, user HombreSinNombre96 went ahead and (drunkenly, per their words) posted a new Ask Me Anything thread:
Just finished interning in Congress a few weeks ago, AMA! from AMA
Some of the questions, naturally, came from trolls: "On a scale of one to John Boehner how big of scumbags are the people there?" one user asked. But a few serious questions came in as well, and the former intern offered a handful of rather insightful answers. Curious about the sh*t-talking, the pay, and the other things that might come up in the presence of our esteemed representatives? Here are the top highlights from the thread.
1. The Internship Was Not Paid
If you think the government will shell out for its intern employees, think again. "No, it was not paid. :( Which is some actual bullsh*t, because I worked my f*cking ass off; every day I'd wake up at 5:30 am, get to D.C., work 8-9 hours depending on if we were in session, and then get home at 7:30 pm."
2. Congress Staffers Don't Actually Make That Much Money
Another misconception about the government: that all officials make bank. After all, the President has $400,000 salary, plus $50,000 for expenses and $100,000 for travel. As for the people further down? "If you think staffers make a lot of money, that is definitely not the case lol."
3. Allegedly, Congress Really IS Working Toward Wise Spending
The prevailing myth is that the government is blowing money on useless things for no reason. "Believe it or not, Members of Congress really do try to spend tax money wisely. A common question they ask is "do we really need to spend money on bill X?"
4. The Representatives Actually Provide Some (Very Random) Additional Services
When they're not arguing about the future of America, representatives can do all sorts of fun things. "Services provided are things like free tours of the Capitol, the ability to book White House tours . . . In addition to that, if you're having an issue with a federal agency you should definitely call the Rep's district office . . . The district office can help you (or at least try its best) with things like fighting the Veterans' Administration to get your benefits, or get your passport expedited, or try and help with things like social security."
5. There's a Lot of Sh*t-Talking, but at Least They Aren't Doing Anything Shady
Bet you thought government workers don't act like a bunch of high school mean girls. But, guess what? This is as catty as any other office space can (sometimes) be. Even so, there's a silver lining. "There was a lot of sh*t talking behind peoples' backs which really turned me off. I never saw anything unethical go down though as far as taking bribes from lobbyists etc."
6. If Your Representative Is From the Opposite Party, There's Basically Nothing You Can Do but Wait
Being a Democrat in a conservative area or vice versa is even harder than you think. "If you're a Republican in a district where a Democrat represents you, no amount of railing against Obamacare will get him or his staff to change their position supporting Obamacare, thus you basically have to deal with not having your interests represented in Congress at all."
Wellness on the Fly: 7 Tips For Feeling Awesome When You Travel
Nowadays, jet-setting is as simple as pulling out a smartphone and typing a few words, and next thing you know, you're across the pond sipping Rosé and eating oil-drizzled bocconcini (yummm).
While the perks of travel bring fresh opportunities for connection, cultural inspiration, and much needed R&R, travel also requires we have a seriously strong set of tools in our self-care kit to stay balanced, vital, and energized on those heavy travel days. When we travel, we're thrown out of our normal routines. Our sleeping and eating patterns get disrupted. On flight days, we often scramble and hustle, becoming overwhelmed at best and hangry at worst.
During days of travel, our muscles naturally want to contract, cramp, and constrict, and the sympathetic nervous system, the one in charge of keeping us alert to wake up in time for the 3 a.m. alarm, begins running the show.
If allowed, traveling can start to feel overwhelming, but with a few simple techniques and the right attitude, the shift out of our comfort zone provides a clear opportunity to practice radical self-care. We can choose to either meet the change to our normal routine with resistance and frustration or to move into it with acceptance, flexibility, and a willingness to improvise with the help of a little proactive planning.
As an American yoga teacher based in Bali, engaged to an Aussie, I've grown quite accustomed to the shifting winds of travel. I've learned to view regular flight trips as an opportunity to approach the movement and change of routine as a part of - rather than a distraction from - my practice.
Here are seven simple tips for keeping your body, mind, and spirit feeling their best surrounding the days of travel.
1. Hydrate
Begin drinking lots of water a couple of days before a big flight and be sure to carry a refillable water bottle with you on the travel day. Avoid alcohol - yes, even those complimentary mini wine bottles on the plane. Alcohol, even a few days before the flight, can lead to dehydration, swelling, headaches, muscle cramping, and fatigue. Simply put: it's not worth it.
Drink water with lemon, coconut water, and regular purified water to ensure your cells are as hydrated as possible before getting on the plane.
2. Stretch
Many airports now have yoga or wellness rooms for weary travelers, including Dallas Fort Worth, Chicago O'Hare, and San Francisco. Leave the gate and give yourself a chance to breathe, stretch, and tap into the parasympathetic nervous system on a long flight. If there is no yoga room at the airport, find a quiet corner at a less busy terminal and spread out your mat or a sarong. Deep rhythmic breathing, forward folds, hip and shoulder openers, gentle inversions, and heart openers are all excellent for a mini practice and can make a tremendous difference in dissolving held tension from the journey.
3. Pack Healthy Snacks
Hit up the grocery store a day before you leave to pick up some healthy snack staples to bring with you on the plane. Though before a big trip there are always a thousand things to do, having a fresh bag of celery to crunch on instead of a bag of airport pretzels is worth the extra preparation. My favorites are celery, baby carrots, and sliced cucumbers. I also bring a couple of green apples, a bag full of sprouted almonds, and raw crackers.
4. Use Essential Oils
I keep a couple of my favorite essential oils in my bag - usually peppermint and lavender - to dab onto my wrist or onto my eye mask when we take off or land. Having a cleansing, calming smell at the tips of my fingers makes me feel centered and grounded even at 40,000 feet.
5. Moisturize
Travel dries us out, but treating our skin right doesn't need to be an at-home-only kind of practice. Pack a small bag of lip balm, face moisturizer, and hand cream to nourish your skin on the go. Not only will your skin thank you, but you'll feel better for taking good care of yourself.
6. Get Enough Rest
Give yourself plenty of time before you fly to get a lot of rest. If you can, take it easy when you land in your final destination. By resting, you're allowing your body the chance to work for you, resyncing its natural rhythms in a new time zone and place.
7. Keep Your Eyes Peeled For the Magic
One of the greatest gifts of travel is the refreshing influx of new energy. Whether you're walking through the airport to catch a connection or down a foreign city street, pay attention to the particular buzz and magic around you. Traveling bestows the blessing of being able to observe and participate in experience in a new, vibrant way, particularly because it is unfamiliar and out of the ordinary. Oftentimes in our familiar space of our daily routine, we're not as open to see the magic lurking in the mundane moments. Use the tremendous opportunity to really pay attention to what surrounds you and allow yourself to be moved by what you see. Many a-ha! moments and new creative inspiration happen when we step out of our normal day-to-day rhythm to be moved by what is new.
Cait Scudder, MAT, RYT-500, is a wellness expert, radiant living coach, inspirational speaker, and yoga and meditation teacher living in Bali. She is founder of the Radiant Living School and holds programs, workshops, and retreats around the globe for soul-centered women on a mission to shine. Connect with her at caitscudder.com to learn more about her coaching, courses and the Radiance Rising Women's Leadership Retreat in Bali, March, 2018.
This Portuguese Bride's Caped Wedding Dress Took 135 Hours to Create - and It Came Out a Masterpiece
Perhaps you've heard of London label Sophia Kah, but if you haven't, let us introduce you to Ana Teixeria de Sousa, the Portuguese designer behind the famous eveningwear looks. Of course, when it came time for her own nuptials, Ana made it her duty to stitch her own gown from start to finish (she confirmed to Vogue this took 135 hours) and then dress her bridesmaids too. But that's not all - Ana spent an extra 100 hours embroidering her lovely veil that swept the floor behind her as she walked down the aisle at Casa de Mateus.
Ana and her now-husband Philippe Schmitz invited all their friends and family to party at the Portugal palace amidst a very vibrant atmosphere, and the guest shots made for some of the best Instagrams from the weekend. Not that any of them could distract from Ana's masterpiece of a bridal look, of course. Read on to soak up every gorgeous detail, and admire the bride's dress from every angle. Spoiler: the long train barely fits into the frame of a single photo.
A Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake Duet Might Be on the Way, and Now We Can't Breathe
Grab all the denim and newsboy caps you own, because Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears are reportedly working on a new song together. The late '90s power couple, who dated from 1999 to 2002, didn't part ways on the best of terms due to rumors that the pop princess had cheated on the *NSYNC alum with her choreographer, but it appears time heals all wounds (and Ramen-inspired hair). While both of the singers have written songs about each other in the past, they've yet to collaborate on a duet, but music producer Timbaland recently sent the rumor mill into overdrive after dropping some hints about a song they could be working on together while talking to the hosts behind the Pop University podcast.
Hosts Maddie Lazer and Hannah Rowston stopped by a taping of ABC's latest singing competition show, Boy Band, on which Timbaland serves as an "architect", and went up to the judge's table to ask him about "Justney." At first the music producer - who's worked with Timberlake on a number of tracks over the years - assumed they were saying "Justin," and asking about the "Can't Stop the Feeling" singer's upcoming fifth studio album. "It's coming! New music, 2018," he told them, before they shouted out again, "No, no. Justney, Justney! Justin and Britney and you."
According to Pop University, Timbaland then realized what Lazer and Rowston were really asking about, and his eyes widened. The hit-making music producer reportedly told them, "Yes, it's coming. It's coming." Did he simply misunderstand what they were getting at, or is a Spears and Timberlake collaboration truly in the works?
This isn't the first time news about a potential duet between the two has popped up, but Timbaland's seeming confirmation is definitely telling. In late March, Timbaland got fans all riled up after liking a handful of throwback photos of the former couple after recording in the studio with Timberlake and Pharrell, which many took to be a sign that Spears had laid down a track with her ex (Timberlake's mom, Lynn Harless, also began following Spears on Instagram around the same time).
As much as we think it might just be a big coincidence, at least we know that Timberlake and Spears are both down to make music together at some point. Spears revealed that she'd love to work with Timberlake during an interview in 2016 ("He's very good"), and a few months later, Timberlake told E! News that he'd "absolutely, absolutely" be down to collaborate with her. Make it happen, universe.
What Happened on Game of Thrones This Week? 30 Seriously Insane Things, For Starters
Major Game of Thrones spoilers below!
Warning: you might have trouble breathing after watching the fifth episode of Game of Thrones season seven, because it's one INSANE ride. Although "Eastwatch" doesn't have quite as much firepower as "The Spoils of War," it manages to squeeze in, oh, about a million bombshells. From the truth about Jon Snow's parentage and a jaw-dropping pregnancy announcement to the fact that a certain character is incredibly hot now, the episode is action-packed, to say the least. Relive each and every shocking moment below to help you prepare for what's coming next week.
Princess Diana Wore These Comfy Sneakers, and 20 Years Later, So Did Kate Middleton
We know Princess Diana and Kate Middleton have similar tastes in clothes and brands (exhibit A). Kate's known for wearing her Superga sneakers on several occasions and it turns out, Princess Diana wore them too - 20 years ago! It was during her visit to Angola in 1997 that she rocked a black lace-up pair with light-wash jeans and a blazer.
Meanwhile, Kate's go-to is a white pair, which she wore with her all-black ensemble at the 2017 Virgin Money London Marathon. Though the two women wore them years apart, the classic style hasn't changed too much. We'd still recognize the slim fit and iconic Superga logo on the side anywhere. Are these sneakers royal approved? We say yes, and we included some shopping options ahead, if you want a pair too.
9 Secret Strengths of Introverts
Despite popular belief, there is nothing wrong with having an introverted child. Instead of trying to completely change these kids and force them to be more outgoing, it's important to understand why they act the way they do and celebrate the unique strengths that they possess.
Susan Cain understands that having a quiet approach to life is a great power and a tool that kids need to learn how to use instead of entirely reforming. In her book, Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts, she explains that being an introvert is about having a deep inner life and considering it to be just as important. She also clarifies that there is a neurobiological difference between introverts and extroverts because their nervous systems react differently. An introvert's nervous system is more responsive to what is going on around them, which is why they feel more comfortable in calmer settings with less-stimulating surroundings.
While it's easy to spot an introverted kid in the group, many don't realize or appreciate the unique qualities among these children that should be celebrated. These are strengths of introverts that parents need to recognize and support in their children.
Mindy Kaling Opens Up About Her Impending Motherhood: "I'm Really Excited!"
News broke in July that Mindy Kaling is pregnant with her first child, and now the actress is opening up about just how thrilled she is for this next chapter in her life. While sitting down with Sunday TODAY recently, The Mindy Project star told host Willie Geist that she's "really excited" about her impending motherhood. "It's so unknown to me. I have a lot of control over a lot of aspects of my life, and this is one where I'm like, 'OK, it's out of my hands,' which is kind of a fun feeling," she said.
Mindy also hopes to draw inspiration from the close relationship she had with her own mother, who sadly passed away in 2012 after batting pancreatic cancer. "My mom was incredibly fierce and so devoted to us, just loved us and really wanted us to be happy no matter what we did," she continued. "My career choice was not something that she was familiar with and she was just so supportive of that. And if I could give that to my child, just that open-mindedness, I'd be so happy." The actress said that that open-mindedness probably won't apply to other parents, though, joking: "It's so easy to criticize parenting until you're a parent, so one of the nice things about becoming a parent is that I'll be able to openly criticize other parenting because I will have a child." Catch the full interview when it airs on NBC on Sept. 10.
The Shoe Gods Are Good - These 20 Cute Boots Are All Under $100
We're so excited for boot season that we're already shopping for the best pairs. This year, there are so many styles we're eyeing, it's ridiculous. That's why we searched every corner of the web for the very best options under $100. Whether you want over-the-knee statement-makers or simple booties, we discovered some gorgeous options. Shop all of these affordable picks before another wise person snatches them up.
The 11 Most Stunning Brooches in the Royal Vaults
When all eyes are turned to the royal family's headline-grabbing tiaras and engagement rings, it means many incredible pieces of jewelry in the royal collection can be overlooked. For the biggest and best-quality diamonds in the world, as well as symbols of the deepest love, it's all about the royals' brooches. From priceless antiques to more contemporary creations, the pretty trinkets of a young princess to the knockout bling of a grand matriarch, we rounded up the best and most beautiful royal brooches.
10 Thrill-Inducing Activities Around the World
Thrill seeker, adrenaline junkie, daredevil . . . do any of these terms apply to you? If so, it's time to take your courageous spirit on the road. From India and South Africa all the way to Australia and China, adventure awaits. Whether you like swimming with the fish or seeing the world from new heights and at great speeds, the world is waiting for you to experience its most electrifying and exciting activities. Get your heart pumping with these thrill-inducing stunts on your next vacation!
Kate Middleton and Princess Diana Received This 1 Piece of Jewelry More Precious Than Diamonds
Just like the late Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton owns plenty of precious diamond jewels and tiaras. While many of them have been physically passed down from Queen Elizabeth II or Princess Diana, who wore her fair share of bling, there were times Kate and Diana forwent gemstones and pearls for a simple engraved pendant.
Diana's circle plate was etched with "William" and was a gift from Prince Charles after the birth of their son in 1982. Meanwhile, it's reported that Pippa bought Kate her own version from London boutique Merci Maman, confirmed on a company blog post:
"Family was one of the closest things to Diana's heart so it's no surprise that this shone through in her jewelery, featuring personalized pieces and meaningful charms . . . In 2013, Pippa Middleton continued this family tradition by giving her sister Kate, The Duchess of Cambridge, our Personalized Duchess Necklace to celebrate the birth of Prince George. Featuring a hand-engraved disc with the Prince's full name, a small boy charm and a heart engraved with a 'W' to represent Prince William."
Read on to get a closer look at both sentimental chains on Kate and Diana, then shop the exact design should you want to start the trend in your own family.
12 Reasons South Korea Should Be Your Next Big Trip
If South Korea isn't already on your bucket list, it should be! The country offers way more than simply a tech-obsessed metropolis filled with neon signs. Palace gardens provide tranquility in crowded cities, delicious food is around every corner, and stunning mountains lie just beyond the skyscrapers. Here are 12 reasons South Korea should be your next big trip.
This Teacher's New Homework Policy Is Going Viral For All of the Right Reasons
When a teacher addresses their homework policy for the year, their expectations aren't usually met with smiling faces. But Mrs. Brandy Young isn't most teachers, and her new, nontraditional rule regarding schoolwork outside the classroom is getting both kids and their parents excited about the year ahead.
The progressive second grade teacher at Godley Elementary School in Godley, TX, sent out a letter to parents explaining that her students will not be given specific assignments to complete at home - homework will only consist of what students did not finish during the school day.
"Research has been unable to prove that homework improves student performance," Young explained in the note. "Rather, I ask that you spend your evenings doing things that are proven to correlate with student success. Eat dinner as a family, read together, play outside, and get your child to bed early."
According to studies, as well as an article from the Washington Post, there hasn't been any research that's found any benefit to assigning homework of any kind - or of any amount - to elementary school students. "I'm just trying to be innovative - I really want to be a leader of my classroom. As a mom and as a teacher, [I found that] a lot of homework just wasn't necessary, and it wasn't the right thing for my students," Young told POPSUGAR. "Lower elementary school students are here all day with us, so I think it's our job to educate them here and when they go home they have other things they need to learn there."
As a mom of four children, Samantha Gallagher is all too familiar with late nights filled with homework, so she was extremely happy when she saw Mrs. Young's unexpected note. "We moved from Florida where she had homework beginning in preschool," Gallagher said. "I'm really happy that at the end of a long school day, [Brooke will] have time just to come home and be a kid, play outside, and make new friends. I believe it will enable us to spend more time in the evening together!"
If this is something you would like your child's school district to consider, Young says that teacher communication is key and recommends that you speak up. "Share your values and your concerns with your teacher if you feel like your child is doing too much homework, and ask the purpose of it. Meaningful assignments are great outside of school but there needs to be a meaning," Young said. "Teachers need the freedom to be in charge of their classrooms and that's something that my district has given me that not a lot of teachers have."
The Pioneer Woman's Most Popular Casseroles Will Inspire You to Cook
You know you can always count on the Pioneer Woman for easy and delicious recipes. Some of Ree Drummond's most popular recipes are her casseroles, and it's easy to see why: these one-pan wonders are layered with flavor and guarantee that dinner gets on the table fast. If you're looking to get out of your dinner rut or desperately need some inspiration to cook, look no further than Ree Drummond's top 14 most popular casserole recipes from Food Network.
Josh Hartnett and His Girlfriend Welcome Their Second Child!
Josh Hartnett is a dad again! The actor and his girlfriend, Tamsin Egerton, have reportedly welcomed their second child. While there are no further details at this time, the two were spotted shopping around Hampstead in London, England, with their little one on Monday. The notoriously private couple, who first met on the set of The Lovers in 2010, first revealed that they were expecting when the English actress showed off her baby bump at Vanity Fair's Oscars after-party in February. Josh and Tamsin are also parents to a 1-year-old daughter, whose name they have not yet revealed. Congrats to the happy pair!
It's Not Your Imagination - Your MIL Hates You Since You Gave Birth to Her Grandchild
You had her favorite and only grandchild and so your mother-in-law couldn't be any more excited! Technically, you should be her favorite person, and for a while there, you were. She called and texted you constantly and couldn't wait to hear more about how the baby was doing. She even asked how you felt after labor (or a C-section) and brought you a little postbirth present. You two were sort of like BFFs. Well, as close as you can be with someone who's not your own mom and as close as she can be with someone who, well, took her son away. Sniff.
But now? Oh, it's a whole different ball game. Before you could do no wrong, as the bearer of the greatest of all: the grandbaby. But now? Now you are doing everything wrong, according to your dear old mother-in-law. Here are three signs your MIL kind of hates you after having her grandchild.
First She Says: "Don't Do That!"
She questions your every parenting move, from the type of diapers you use to your nursing or feeding process/schedule or what have you. She reminds you of what she did as a young mother, in a way to validate her own parenting, but also to tell you that "Hey lady: you are doing it all wrong!"
You've started telling her less, simply out of fear that you will get her angry or worse, get yourself entangled in a fight.
Then: She Gets In Her Son's Ear
Even if your hubby ignores her, she starts to bother him about what it is that she believes you're doing wrong. This way, she believes, she will have her son on her side and can get you to stop whatever supposedly offensive behavior you're doing. It's not that she hates you exactly, but more that as she sees you with the new baby, a part of her longs for those days back herself. A part of her is envious. Another part of her believes that she truly knows what is best for her grandchild and doesn't want to give up on her opinions.
Mostly, her son is tired of being in the middle and probably is on your side.
The best approach? Simply validate her feelings by saying, "I appreciate how much you care for the baby and that you may have done things differently than I am, but things always change with time and I am doing my best."
In other words? Don't engage the beast!
Lastly: She Admonishes You Publicly
She doesn't hold back from sharing her feelings about you and your parenting in public because most likely, you're following your own maternal instincts and not hers so therefore, she has "had enough." Whether it's at a family gathering or you have invited her to lunch or the park, you'll know she really dislikes you by how she picks you apart, whether it's for the dress you decided to wear, how you dressed your baby, how you breathe, where you bought your groceries, or where you plan on having your child's first birthday party.
Basically, you're doomed. How do you manage this situation?
You can't change her, but you can manage how you respond to her.
- First: Don't feed the fighting. Ignore her catty comments.
- Second: Acknowledge her care for her grandchild and that you're sure she was a great parent who raised great kids and that you're learning your own parenting style much how she did.
- Third: If she starts to be nasty, end the visit or tell your hubby, "It's time to leave now."
- Fourth: Kill her with kindness and include her. Yes, include her! Ask her for her input on other matters. Invite her to special events she might like and when she is nasty, always be kind. Will this stink for a while? Yes, but it may be that she's feeling threatened by you or perhaps just lonely or uninvolved. Making her feel needed may be the trick!
- Fifth and final: Avoid spending time with her alone if it's that bad and none of the other steps work.
It's not always easy getting along with your MIL but hopefully, this little angry stage will pass in time. In the meantime, take the high road and turn the other cheek!
Gendry's Giant Hammer Is Much More Significant Than You Realize
On Sunday's Game of Thrones, Ser Davos Seaworth takes Tyrion to King's Landing for a parlay with his brother, Jaime, but Davos has another errand in mind while they're there: running to Flea Bottom real quick and picking up Gendry, the last surviving bastard of Robert Baratheon, to come fight for Jon Snow in the war against the Night King. When Ser Davos tells Gendry he might want to bring a sword for the coming war, Gendry responds, "I don't know much about swinging swords, but this? This I know," as he picks up a badass piece of weaponry.
So what's up with the giant hammer?
Well, Gendry's father, Robert Baratheon, was known for his war hammer. In fact, he used it to kill Prince Rhaegar Targaryen during his rebellion against Mad King Aerys II, which happened years before the events of the books/show.
But Gendry has his own war hammer - complete with a Baratheon stag on one end - which he wields sufficiently to kill two Gold Cloaks who are threatening Davos, Tyrion, and Gendry's escape from King's Landing after Tyrion meets with Jaime to discuss an armistice. Gendry doesn't exactly know what he's getting himself into at this point, but he doesn't really care.
"You came to get me; you want me to come with you," he says to Davos in Flea Bottom. "I'm ready; let's go . . . what do you think I've been thinking about with every swing of the hammer? How happy I am making weapons for the family that killed my father? The family that tried to kill me? I've been getting ready. I never knew what for, but I've always known I'd know it when it comes."
So Gendry and his war hammer are united with Jon Snow and his wildlings to raid beyond the wall in an effort to convince the Southerners that White Walkers actually exist. They've also made a pact with the Brotherhood Without Banners, who Gendry is naturally suspicious of, since they sold him as a blood sacrifice to Melisandre for two bags of gold because the Red Priestess thought killing a king's offspring would put Stannis on the throne.
But it hardly matters now. As Jon Snow says, since they're all breathing, they have a common enemy in the Army of the Dead, and if they don't come together to fight the Night King, they're not going to be breathing for much longer.
Emily Ratajkowski Let the Sun Shine on the 1 Detail That Makes Her Bikini Different
The biggest section of Emily Ratajkowski's wardrobe just might be her bikini drawer. The supermodel rarely repeats a beach look, and lest you thought she'd run out of ideas for catching everyone's attention, she just uploaded snaps from a sunlit photo shoot in another brand new swimsuit.
This particular two-piece appears classic at first - it's all-black with a high-leg cut, which has become a pretty standard silhouette this season. But zoom in close, and you'll find that Emily's design is ribbed, lending it a sporty vibe and a subtle sheen, all the better to play up her glow and her gold jewelry. Read on to see every shot from Emily's latest series, then shop swim separates with the same unique detail.
The Game-Changing Makeup Remover That's Completely Replaced My Wipes
A makeup remover that's reusable and chemical-free and takes off waterproof makeup with ease sounds too good to be true, right? Enter The Original MakeUp Eraser cloth, an ultrasoft microfiber blend that works with just warm water without any products. Since purchasing one a couple of years ago, it's completely replaced my makeup wipes. I'm never turning back.
The best part is that I never have to deal with the hassle of having to purchase refills anymore because it's machine-washable. Each week, toss it in the wash, and it's ready for immediate use. It's also a much more cost-efficient option than other products since one cloth is good for up to 1,000 washes! Other cleansing towelettes are around $7 for a 25-wipe pack versus $20 for one MakeUp Eraser.
So, how does it work?
All you need to do is add warm water and all your smear-proof/waterproof makeup and mascara will come right off, no scrubbing required. If you're not convinced yet, watch it in action in the video below.
One pro tip is to make sure you wring out the cloth and hang it up after each use so that it doesn't become a petri dish for bacteria. You are putting it on your face, after all, and you'll want to keep it as clean and dry as possible. As someone with sensitive skin, I found it best to purchase two to interchange between. Instead of waiting until the end of the week to replace, I toss one into the hamper halfway through and begin using the other. That way, I'm not wiping my face with a towel that's been wet for too long. Also, I should probably disclose that I have no sense of smell, which is why I've never had an issue with any odors that might result from a wet cloth hanging in the bathroom. I repeat, keep it as clean and dry as possible.
I've fallen in love with this miracle product so much that I've gifted it to family and girlfriends who've also converted over to the MakeUp Eraser. For travel, I take a mini-size version that I received in the POPSUGAR Must Have Box, but it also comes in glove form, jumbo size, and more.
You seriously need to try it out for yourself!
Gendry's Giant Hammer Is Much More Significant Than You Realize
On Sunday's Game of Thrones, Ser Davos Seaworth takes Tyrion to King's Landing for a parlay with his brother, Jaime, but Davos has another errand in mind while they're there: running to Flea Bottom real quick and picking up Gendry, the last surviving bastard of Robert Baratheon, to come fight for Jon Snow in the war against the Night King. When Ser Davos tells Gendry he might want to bring a sword for the coming war, Gendry responds, "I don't know much about swinging swords, but this? This I know," as he picks up a badass piece of weaponry.
So what's up with the giant hammer?
Well, Gendry's father, Robert Baratheon, was known for his war hammer. In fact, he used it to kill Prince Rhaegar Targaryen during his rebellion against Mad King Aerys II, which happened years before the events of the books/show.
But Gendry has his own war hammer - complete with a Baratheon stag on one end - which he wields sufficiently to kill two Gold Cloaks who are threatening Davos, Tyrion, and Gendry's escape from King's Landing after Tyrion meets with Jaime to discuss an armistice. Gendry doesn't exactly know what he's getting himself into at this point, but he doesn't really care.
"You came to get me; you want me to come with you," he says to Davos in Flea Bottom. "I'm ready; let's go . . . what do you think I've been thinking about with every swing of the hammer? How happy I am making weapons for the family that killed my father? The family that tried to kill me? I've been getting ready. I never knew what for, but I've always known I'd know it when it comes."
So Gendry and his war hammer are united with Jon Snow and his wildlings to raid beyond the wall in an effort to convince the Southerners that White Walkers actually exist. They've also made a pact with the Brotherhood Without Banners, who Gendry is naturally suspicious of, since they sold him as a blood sacrifice to Melisandre for two bags of gold because the Red Priestess thought killing a king's offspring would put Stannis on the throne.
But it hardly matters now. As Jon Snow says, since they're all breathing, they have a common enemy in the Army of the Dead, and if they don't come together to fight the Night King, they're not going to be breathing for much longer.
Feast Your Eyes on Jennifer Lawrence's Hottest Bikini Moments
Jennifer Lawrence burst onto the scene as Ree in 2010's Winter's Bone, but it wasn't until she played Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games series that the world took notice of her gorgeous looks and badass attitude. Since then, the 26-year-old actress has steamed up a slew of red carpets and charmed fans across the globe with her golden sense of humor. Honestly, it's no wonder why so many people have a girl crush on her. Brace yourself, because we've rounded up Jennifer's hottest bikini moments, and we promise you won't know what hit you after seeing these photos.
These 32 Tandem Breastfeeding Photos Prove That Moms Are Badass
The female body is incredible - it allows you to grow and birth humans, feed those humans, and then spend a lifetime (or at least the toddler years) running after them. Never thinking twice about doing a million things at once, moms are always ready to put their babies first, even when that means two of their children want to eat at the same time - and they both still nurse.
Scroll through for 35 photos of tandem breastfeeding that prove moms and their bodies are absolutely incredible.
The Bambi Pose Is Real, and Bella Hadid's Not the First to Do It
If you ever find yourself sitting upright in child's position during yoga, you're essentially doing the Bambi pose. Coined by Elle, this move is defined by having your thighs over your calves. (For reference, we included a photo of Disney's Bambi in this position below). Meanwhile, your hands can rest on top of your legs, to the side, or you can hold a drink (our preferable choice). You can also arch your back a little, preferably doing so in a swimsuit to maximize this pose's Instagram potential.
The Bambi pose phenomenon - it's real, guys! - has been perfected by the likes of Bella Hadid, Kylie Jenner, and a handful of fashion influencers. Olivia Culpo even did it in denim shorts and a tee while packing, proving you can strike a Bambi pose anywhere, anytime. This Instagram trend might last longer than the thighbrow.
38 Pictures That Show Belinda Has the Most Ab-tastic Instagram
No one can blame Belinda for sharing a few ab Instagrams - she works hard for that crazy six-pack, boxing and working out at the gym for hours on end, so she might as well show it as much as she can. The Mexican actress and singer's preferred method to display her toned muscles: crop tops, even in the Winter and while holding a cup of hot chocolate, but that doesn't mean you won't find a fair share of bikinis in this slideshow. Keep scrolling to see all the times Belinda proved she has the best abs on Instagram, and has left her years as a child star far, far behind.
How a Mom of 3 Created the Most Efficient Kitchen Ever
Despite having two young daughters and a newborn baby girl, Lay Baby Lay blogger Joni Lay's kitchen is serenity personified. That wasn't always the case, though. Like many people who loathe their kitchens, Joni's biggest gripe with her pre-renovation kitchen was the lack of storage and inefficient use of space.
The chaos of her cramped kitchen only felt heightened by the dated design features she and husband Chip inherited when they bought the house - think black-and-white checkerboard floors and particleboard countertops. When an opportunity to work with Home Depot on a kitchen renovation arose, Joni and Chip jumped at the chance to wipe the kitchen slate clean, and the result is pretty breathtaking.
How to Get Foundation Out of Clothes
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Benjamin Stone
Countless shirts have been ruined by an innocent hug that left a large foundation smear. While your first inclination might be to reach for the makeup remover, think again. The oil, which is meant for the skin, might actually make the situation worse. Save your shirts, towels, bath mats, and more with three tips for removing foundation stains. Just keep reading for the details.
This Is What a Water Birth Really Looks Like
Water births are substantially increasing in popularity, but many people have little idea what this unique birth experience actually entails. Whether a mom is laboring in an inflated pool at a birthing center or pushing in her own bathtub, there's no one way to have a water birth. Supporters of water births claim it's not just more relaxing but also more comfortable because of the water's buoyancy. Let these intimate photos help you get a sense of what a water delivery is actually like.
I Channeled Kendall Jenner - and Went Braless at Work
I hopped off the bus in Times Square and started to walk toward the office. That's when he saw me. He shook his head back and forth slowly as he stared down at my chest. "Why do you do that?" the man moaned loudly. Yes, seriously. I sped up into a walk-run, suddenly feeling extremely self-conscious.
I was wearing a sleeveless turtleneck in a fuzzy mustard-colored material so as to distract from my nipples as much as possible. Clearly, it wasn't really working. Plus, a bathroom selfie I had taken in the mirror that morning confirmed it was definitely easy to make out the shape of my boobs. But when I left the house, I had been comfortable. There were no bra straps to slip off my shoulders or underwire to adjust when it dug into my skin. Honestly, I kind of liked the look. I thought my outfit - the aforementioned turtleneck plus a denim skirt with a pair of sneakers - appeared effortless. I added a pair of gold hoop earrings too, which said "polished" but my nipples were just like "whatever." "Is this how it feels to dress like a French girl?" I wondered.
But you should know the reason why I decided to ditch a bra in the first place. During a brainstorm with my coworkers, I came up with the idea as an "editor experiment" based on the fact that Kendall Jenner has been all about wearing sheer tops that expose her nipple ring this Summer and supermodel sisters Bella and Gigi Hadid have followed suit. (The Hadid sisters don't have nipple rings, but they do have nipples.) And even though these ladies are more well-endowed than I am, they seem very nonchalant about going braless. When I look at their street style shots, I want to put on an outfit that appears to be so easy. "So who's going to try it?" I challenged, looking around the room during our meeting. "Why don't you do it?" someone said. Right. I had unknowingly volunteered myself to go braless, and at that point, I couldn't turn back.
So there I was the next day in a black button-down cardigan - one I usually wear with my Victoria's Secret Bombshell push-up bra. But on this day, there was more of just a sag situation going on. I styled my sweater with cropped high-waisted denim, pointed-toe flats, and artsy earrings I always get compliments on. I wasn't trying to distract from my breasts, but I was, perhaps, trying to channel Audrey Hepburn.
"I can totally tell you're not wearing a bra," my mom blurted out at dinner on this night, as we sat around the table with my cousin who was visiting, my boyfriend, who probably doesn't love that I'm writing a Tale of Two Titties to be posted online, my sister, my grandma, who doesn't even remember where she keeps her bras or what they're for, and oh yeah, my dad. "Yes, I guess that's the point." I said, again feeling sort of uncomfortable that everyone was now staring at my chest. We're a supercasual family, so it's not like this was such a big deal. But I guess I was surprised by how often people were taking note - even when I was wearing black.
I took a final stance on going braless when the weekend came, and I was able to style my "going out" outfits more easily. Since a night out to dinner with Bae called for a pretty little sundress with complicated bow straps, it felt like such a relief to not have to worry about the placement of stick-on boobs, or as some girls call them, "chicken cutlets." There was zero panic about those guys peeking out from the sides or the top of my dress, and no chance of them slipping down when I started to sweat (partly because it's Summer and partly because the Cioppino sauce was supposed to be spicy).
Later that night, I changed into a floral tube top that cinches into a bow at the front and would absolutely have revealed all different smidgens of my bra or bralette if I had attempted to wear one. I threw on the flirty top with cutoffs and sandals and danced the night away. It felt so easy! "This is it! I am French!" I thought to myself as I kicked it to "Despacito" at the bar. Some of the people I am friends with and spend time with on the weekend did notice I wasn't wearing a bra. Jokingly, they called me names like "Titties McGee" which felt a little bit demeaning to me, but in their defense, I told them all about my experiment, and they were very supportive.
All in all, going braless is far less manageable at the workplace. I couldn't help but feel uncomfortable when I was sitting in meetings, the AC was blasting, and my nipples were the most excited things in the room. But going braless on the weekend? Now that I can get behind - I even think it looks more elegant to make the move with a fancy gown at a wedding. Because really, messing around with boob tape is never fun, and it can cause wardrobe malfunctions and straight-up inconvenience when you're just trying to enjoy the shrimp cocktail instead of having to run to the bathroom every five minutes.
That said, going braless isn't for everyone. There are women who truly need the support of a bra on an everyday basis, and luckily for them, the look is definitely more sleek, polished, and clean. Nevertheless, I don't mind a good fashion experiment every now and then. I could have done without the 8:30 a.m. comments from the man who interrupted my walk to work, but it did help me to draw conclusions about how I felt without a bra on. I do think going a full week without one helped me feel more confident in my own skin.
Not that bra size is of much importance to me, but as a 32A, I wouldn't mind being, like, one cup size bigger. It'd be nice to fill out a bodyhugging top with a plunging neckline, instead of swimming in the material or having to secure a safety pin behind my neck to hold things in place. And I'd love to wear one of those retro-style swimsuits with a half-moon cup and underwire that provides lift. Unfortunately, I don't really have much of anything to "lift." Even so, my boobs became more visible to me during the week I went braless. As soon as I took off my shirt at the end of the day, there they were!
I discovered the natural shape of my boobs, too, because I was always staring right at them when I looked in the mirror. It turns out, my boobs aren't perfect mini-circles, as they appear to be when I'm wearing a bra. Without a bra, I had to support my own breasts, and I did this by wearing my head high and shrugging off the double takes and widened eyes of the people I passed on the street. I did this by paying attention to my posture. Instead of slouching, I stood up straight. Instead of hunching over at my desk, I perked my head up and rolled my shoulders back. The whole week was a sort of lesson in poise for me, and I'm proud of myself for sticking through it. I'm proud of my boobs, too.
For a Funny Girl, Jennifer Lawrence Has Had Some Seriously Stunning Red Carpet Moments
We can hardly believe that Jennifer Lawrence is only 27 - and not just because she's taken home almost every acting award there is, most notably for her roles in Joy, American Hustle, and Silver Linings Playbook. The role she plays on the red carpet - the goofball who seamlessly fits into some of the most intricate and elegant designs - is quite impressive too.
So, because it's her birthday, we're taking a look back at the star's most memorable looks on her way to becoming a true style icon - despite her claim that she's a bit of a fashion-world outsider. How did she do it? Simple: this is one woman who totally wears her clothes, instead of the other way around. On that note, here's to another year of making bold statements on the red carpet.
- Additional reporting by Robert Khederian
Updated abortion pill rule adds to confusion, pharmacist says
A policy that women had to take the abortion pill in front of their doctor was changed in May, but the change has led to confusion for pharmacists.
Passion Over Profit: Why Loving What You Do Is More Important Than How Much You Make
There is a longstanding debate on whether money can buy happiness or not, with mixed results leaning towards both sides. Most would agree that it's not money itself that makes one happy but rather it's what can be bought with the money. However, that still begs the question: if you don't have money, can you still be happy? For the most part, money is needed at a basic level in order to purchase the things we need in life to survive, but at what point does passion become more important than profit?
With a new awakening by many people who are more interested in their quality of life, we have compiled a list of seven reasons why loving what you do is more important than how much you make.
1. You Have a Better Chance of Living Longer
According to WebMD, studies have found that many health issues like obesity, heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, depression, gastrointestinal problems, and asthma worsen or increase when put in a stressful environment. When you are working at a job that you hate or a job that you are only at because of the money, you are literally taking years off of your life due to the stress that job may cause. Add to that the fact that not living out your passion adds another level of dissatisfaction, where you are doubly hurting yourself by adding potential regret to the mix.
2. You Will NEVER Fail
Albert Einstein once said, "You never fail until you stop trying." In other words, you don't become a failure by failing. You become a failure by giving up. When you are solely working for a paycheck and the going gets tough it becomes easier to just walk away and find something else to do, instead of sticking it out and persevering. Passion allows you to go above and beyond in everything you do. And even if something happens that sets you back, you will continue to put your best foot forward because you are passionate about your work.
3. You Can Provide For Your Family Long Term
When your why is big enough, you can handle just about any how! It is no secret that success takes hard work but when you are motivated, it becomes more difficult for you to fail or not be successful. With that said, following your passion ensures that you have longevity in what you are doing. So if you combine your passion with a paycheck, you will make more over your lifetime then if you simply chased money. Yes, you can probably make a lot of money in the immediate, but the amount of work that it will take to sustain your income on a long-term perspective will burn you out. As a result, this may cause you to quit based on poor work-life balance or get terminated due to performance. Either way, that income disruption may be detrimental to you and your family's well-being, so going after your passion from the start increases your chance of having a stable financial household.
4. You Only Live Once
Two things guaranteed in life are death and taxes! No matter how you slice it every one of us at some point is going to die! Sorry to sound harsh, but if you only have one life to live, why waste it doing something that you don't love? Time is the one thing that you can NEVER get back. Think about it: if you lose money, you can always make some more, but time, once wasted, is gone forever. Instead of spending your precious time chasing something that will always be there (money), focus on using what is limited (time) to its fullest.
5. You Have a Reason to Keep Going
Life is full of ups and downs. When the downturns happen, your passion is what is going to get you through even the worst of times. Imagine struggling and going through hardship and the only thing you have to show for it is your bank account or material possessions? The value of those things decreases very quickly, while passion stays with you forever. Passion gives you a reason to wake up with enthusiasm instead of working for the weekends. Passion gives you the extra energy you need to keep going, when the going gets tough.
6. You Can Build a Strong Network
When you are motivated and passionate about your work, you attract other people who have the same passion for their work. Conversely, when you are passionate and love what you do, it also becomes easier to spot those who are not as passionate. If you are in a leadership position, this allows you to build a strong team that will help you achieve your goals faster. If you are not in a leadership position, it allows you to shine and move up the corporate ladder faster because you will stand out from the crowd. And if you are an entrepreneur, it will allow you to be surrounded by those who have the same values and work ethic that you do. Very simply, the more you surround yourself with high achievers, the further you'll go.
7. You'll Increase Your Happiness
As the famous John Lennon quote says, "When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down 'happy.' They told me I didn't understand the assignment, and I told them they didn't understand life." Be like John! Understand that life is about being happy and happiness comes from doing what sets your soul on fire! Follow your passion and be happy.
Luvleen Sidhu is the cofounder and president at BankMobile, a completely digital bank, offering an entirely fee-free checking account, aimed at helping the underbanked, millennials, and middle-income Americans have an affordable, effortless, and financially empowering banking experience.
Jennifer Lopez and Her Mom Are 2 Peas in a Pod
Jennifer Lopez and her mom, Guadalupe Rodríguez, have always been tight. From helping her raise the #coconuts (that's J Lo's twins, in case you don't follow her Instagram as closely as we do) to traveling the world with her, Jen's mom is number one in her book.
"To this amazing force of nature!! My number one fan. My biggest cheerleader. The reason I am who I am today!! I LOVE YOU MOMMY!!," Jennifer captioned a photo she posted in honor of Mother's Day in 2016. That's so sweet. Keep scrolling to see the best photos of the mother-daughter duo.
15 Life-Changing Cooking Secrets You Can Learn From Italians
The thing about Italian cooking is that it's a lot simpler than Americans tend to believe. If you go to Italy, you'll quickly learn that the country values high-quality ingredients and freshly cooked meals above just about anything else when it comes to food. It's not about overly complex cooking techniques, but about starting with the best ingredients and figuring out how to pair them together, from homemade pasta to sauces and desserts. And once you learn some of the basic practices, you'll soon discover you can implement them in your own kitchen and start making your best Italian meals ever.
If you want to learn how to cook more authentically Italian, look no further than the following helpful cooking tips that I learned firsthand on a trip to Verona with Giovanni Rana, one of Italy's oldest brands of fresh pasta. I ate a whole lot of pasta to be sure, but I also learned just as much about it.
What Teachers Really Think About the "Problem Child"
Every teacher, no matter the quality of school or the number of years in the profession, has had a student that makes their job harder than it should be. There's a lot of pedological phrases that get tossed around to describe the student's issues, but out in the real world the most common way to describe the situation is "problem child."
First, let me say uncategorically that I've never met a teacher who would ever even think about using this phrase. "Problem child" is the creation of Hollywood and bad parenting books in the '50s. Simply trying to categorize children - and let's remember that we're talking about children here - as a problem is kind of gross.
Of course there are children who are more difficult than others, children who require an obscene amount of patience from the teacher just to ensure that they don't end up on the evening news for retaliating in an unacceptable manner. I'm not saying that they don't exist, merely that labeling all challenging children in one difficult-to-deal-with category doesn't work. Each and every student who has ever given me consistent trouble, and there have been a lot, have done so in their own unique way and with their own reasons.
The most common type of student who has given me trouble is the one who is resistant. There might be one in a class or a whole group of them who impede on my ability to teach and their willingness to learn. The resistant student doesn't do any work and rolls their eyes when being asked to do any level of work. Most teachers that I've known secretly like the resistant student, and truthfully they've been some of my favorites as well. They're like a puzzle that needs to be cracked to reveal, if not a hard-working student, at least one who is willing to try.
The resistant student is not the same as the sassy or defiant one. These are the students who may have been the reason an extra one or two bottles of wine each week were consumed because of the sheer amount of patience required to teach them. Their teacher has to take into account that every little phrase, direction, or activity might set off this student. What started as a simple lesson can descend into a battle of will and wits that most teachers don't want to deal with.
And some of these difficult students straddle the line between defiant and dangerous. Fights, throwing things, threatening other students, and being told to "go f*ck myself" unfortunately can be an average day, which they don't really prepare you for in education programs. Time spent planning a lesson is suddenly a waste because you spend time instead working on a behavior program for a handful of students.
The biggest problem with "problem children" is that very often it can take weeks or a whole year to find a workable solution. This means that to reach the life of one student the lives of 30 others were upturned. These kinds of overt distractions that steal class time from the rest of the students who are willing to learn are what really anger teachers, but it's not the students necessarily - it's the situation. Quite frankly, it's the lack of support from administration when dealing with belligerent students that really stings.
I've worked in three different schools, each one having its own unique way of handling students who needed extra support and behavior modification. Action plans would be set in place, parents get contacted, and administration would be supportive and direct the whole time. When this is done well, usually with restorative justice practices, children who are a problem find ways to work within the education system.
When this kind of support is absent from a school, either due to different opinions on how best to approach problems or serious underfunding, life for a teacher can be hell. Students have made me cry numerous times, a couple times during class because they were particularly defiant. I wish I could say that situation didn't contribute to my decision to take some time off from my teaching career, but the constant belittling from administration and students wears on a person, especially one who is still in the first 10 years of the profession.
So, no, "problem children" are not the issue, but a system that doesn't support teachers and students is the real concern. I'd rather have a whole class of "problem" students in a school that understands how to handle it than one "bad" student in a school that doesn't. Of course, difficult children aren't blameless, but most teachers are reasonable enough to know that with a lot of work, the student's school life can be ameliorated.
Former MLA who survived cancer calls for national HPV vaccination program
A study published by the Canadian Medical Association Journal showed a significant rise in the proportion of oral cancers caused by the HPV in Canada.
Game of Thrones: Why Weirwood Trees May Be the Key to Defeating the Undead
Ever since Bran Stark returned to Winterfell from beyond the Wall on Game of Thrones, he's been spending the majority of his time out in the Winterfell godswood next to a beautiful tree called a weirwood. The trees play an important part in his transformation into the Three-Eyed Raven, and they may play a big part in the coming Night's King invasion. Here's why.
Weirwood is a tree similar to the North American white pine, with a wide trunk and white bark. But unlike the white pine, which sports regular green leaves, weirwood trees are festooned with brilliant red leaves. Special weirwoods, called "heart trees," have faces carved into their bark. Legend says that the carvings were done by the Children of the Forest, the nonhuman race that aligned with the First Men tens of thousands of years ago to fight the White Walker invasion of Westeros.
The weirwood tree where Bran meets the former Three-Eyed Raven has special power, as it had kept the Night's King and his army out of the cave (at least until Bran was marked by the Night's King during one of his wargs). It's unclear if the White Walkers couldn't enter the cave because of the tree itself or some kind of spell that uses a weirwood, but since there are weirwoods south of the Wall, they could come in handy to create safe havens from White Walkers.
It is also part of weirwood lore from the Game of Thrones novels that greenseers can see through the eyes of the carved faces in heart trees, so that may also come into play if any greenseers survived the White Walker siege on the cave in season six.
Unfortunately, most weirwoods in the southern half of Westeros are gone because the Andals wanted to do away with Old Gods worshippers. The Andals had the trees destroyed so as to take away the godswoods, which are places where Old Gods followers could worship. The only weirwoods left in the South are a few heart trees, which remain standing in a handful of castle godswoods.
Those few heart trees may prove invaluable if the Night's King and his army get very far south in Westeros, though it is more likely the ensuing war with the White Walkers will happen in the North. Most likely the only weirwood that will have significant impact on the show is the one at Winterfell where Bran spends all his time.
Investigation launched after B.C. father visits hospital 4 times before stroke diagnosis
Northern Health, which runs hospitals in northwest, B.C., is looking into why it took four hospital visits over four days for doctors to confirm that a Hazelton, B.C., man had suffered at least two strokes.
Here's How Men Can Support Women Under the Trump Administration
Women's rights under the Trump administration are under threat in many ways. And while women have been fighting back, the burden of resistance should not rest solely on their shoulders. How can male feminists and allies support women under this administration, beyond making symbolic gestures? Let's examine the possibilities.
How Are Women Under Threat in the Trump Era?
Donald Trump's surprise election as president of the United States was initially experienced as a setback for feminism. The idea that this woefully unqualified male candidate was elected over Hillary Clinton, an extremely qualified politician who would have been the nation's first female president, reminded many women that the glass ceiling remains firmly in place. What's worse, Trump was elected despite his blatant misogyny, most clearly on display in the now infamous Access Hollywood tape.
Now, more than seven months after Trump was sworn into office, it's clear that women's rights are in real danger. The Trump-supported American Health Care Act, which was mercifully pulled on March 24, threatened to strip away basic health care for women by no longer requiring insurance companies to cover essentials like birth control, maternity care, and mammograms. Meanwhile, the Senate confirmed the nomination of Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court, a conservative judge for whom women's rights are far from a priority. (And his vice president Mike Pence is no better on that front.)
The fact is, Trump's cabinet consists overwhelmingly of white men who have so far displayed a lack of empathy and knowledge in making decisions about women's issues. As Dr. Charmaine Nelson, a professor of art history at McGill University and expert on feminism and race relations, told POPSUGAR in an email: "Until such time as men have uteruses, vaginas, menstrual cycles, and pregnancies, and until such time as they are the main targets of sexual violence, assault, rape, and sexist bullying, women should be at the forefront in creating policies and programs about the health and well-being of our bodies."
How Have Feminists Fought Back So Far?
The feminist movement has responded to these attacks by striking back in spectacular ways. The Women's March on Jan. 21 drew out millions of women and allies across the country to protest against the new president. And the highly anticipated Day Without a Woman event on March 8 raised awareness about women's roles in the economy and in society by encouraging them to go on strike or protest in other ways. People have also shown their support by donating to women's organizations; in one highly publicized case, Planned Parenthood received tens of thousands of dollars in donations from people in VP Mike Pence's name as a form of tongue-in-cheek protest. Additionally, there has been an unprecedented surge in women interested in running for office, with thousands of women reaching out to Democrat associations like Emily's List and Run for Something, which encourage women and millennials to get involved politically.
How Can Men Help?
As empowering and invigorating as these events have been, questions still remain: What now? How can women maintain the resistance day to day? One obvious part of the answer is that they cannot and should not do it alone: men need to join in the fight. One of the most powerful ways they can accomplish this, beyond taking part in protests, is to create a climate that validates and normalizes feminism. But this sometimes requires a delicate balance and awareness of the situation. Here are a few guidelines men can follow in order to become more efficient allies within the every day.
1. Learn to listen - and don't hog the spotlight
A Saturday Night Live sketch perfectly illustrated how well-meaning male feminists can overshadow women, even as they try to defend them. The self-deprecating skit featured two male members of the cast (who claimed to have written the bit) deploring how women in modern society are subjected to injustices like daily harassment and unequal pay. Meanwhile, the female cast members were relegated to the background, left to nod in agreement and thank the men for their support.
Speaking up for women can sometimes lead to drowning out their voices with self-aggrandizing pontificating. Often, it's best to cede the floor and just listen. "Being an ally sometimes means speaking up and 'having someone's back,'" said Dr. Nelson, "and it also means shutting up and knowing when it is not your turn to speak, because you have spoken first, already, or enough. Being an ally also means knowing when and how to listen, really listen." For instance, this means letting women take the floor during work meetings instead of interrupting them or taking credit for their ideas. It also means refraining from "mansplaining" to them.
2. Pay attention and point out injustices at every level
Of course, listening to women doesn't have to mean sitting back and failing to speak up about injustice. Men should add their voices when it can make a difference and when women are being clearly ignored or overpowered by an oppressive majority. "Room needs to be made for our voices, thoughts, and opinions, not merely in the streets through protest (although such movements can be pivotal), but in the boardrooms, offices, parliamentary halls, West Wing, and Senate floors," said Dr. Nelson
Spotting instances of sexism requires constant vigilance, and engaging with feminist issues on a
daily basis, not just during special events like the Women's March. It means speaking up about these issues in every context and situation that you notice, whether it's on the street, in the workplace, or within a national debate. Men can accomplish this in myriad ways, from standing up against street harassment, to publicly demonstrating how sexism is at work in the media. The key is to remain aware.
3. Take a stand, even if it might cost you
One reason even well-intentioned men can falter when it comes to being an ally is that there seems to be little personal incentive for them to do so (although in reality, there are plenty of self-serving reasons they should support the women's movement). When Western society overwhelmingly favors your gender, it can take a concerted effort and awareness to muster up a desire to affect change - especially when this can mean making personal sacrifices.
Take the Women's March. The day after the event, the New York Times published an article about a town in New Jersey where fathers "had to" take care of kids by themselves over the weekend while the women took part in the march. The article was widely derided by the media, including by other Times writers, for its tone-deaf assumption that child care is primarily a woman's responsibility. Sadly, it remains a reality that women continue to take on a larger part of the burden of running a household, despite the fact that more women have jobs outside the home. Domestic tasks are one area in which men can try to support women more by taking on more responsibilities on an everyday basis, not just for exceptional events.
Some, however, believe that men taking on their fair share of responsibilities is not sufficient, and that, in some cases, actual sacrifice may be necessary. For example, according to Dr. Nelson, being a true ally can sometimes mean taking a career hit, voluntarily stepping down in order to make room for others. "Being an ally, of women or of Indigenous people or people of color, means working to create spaces for these under-represented constituents, not just to be present, but to be heard, to be empowered as equals at the decision-making table," said Dr. Nelson. "This also means that white men must be willing to decline the offer (job, taskforce, cabinet post, etc.) because they know that a more qualified female, or black, etc. candidate exists."
If that sounds hard, that's because it is. The idea that white men should set their own advancement aside in order to level the playing field for someone who is just as qualified, but less visible due to gender or color, will inevitably be seen by some as radical. But as one man recently discovered when he started signing his work emails with his female colleague's name, women's professional lives are filled with hurdles that force them to work harder than men just to achieve similar results. Being an ally means helping women get what they deserve - even if it can cost you part of your privilege.
Could the Letter Arya Found Be the End of Sansa on Game of Thrones? Let's Investigate
It seems like Arya Stark has been at Winterfell for only a day on Game of Thrones, but she is already on to Sansa and Littlefinger. In "Eastwatch," Arya observes that Sansa doesn't really defend Jon Snow to his critics in Winterfell, and she also takes note of Sansa's suspicious relationship with Littlefinger. This leads to Arya coming across something that makes Sansa look even more untrustworthy.
After trailing Littlefinger, Arya breaks into his room and reads a scroll that was hidden in the mattress. But because everything is moving so fast, you might have missed what, exactly, was in it. Sadly, things aren't looking good for Arya and Sansa's relationship.
The letter is actually from season one, when Cersei forced Sansa to write Robb and Catelyn Stark to break some big news and urge them to come to King's Landing. It reads:
Robb, I write to you with a heavy heart. Our good king Robert is dead, killed from wounds he took in a boar hunt. Father has been charged with treason. He conspired with Robert's brothers against my beloved Joffrey and tried to steal his throne. The Lannisters are treating me very well and provide me with every comfort. I beg you: come to King's Landing, swear fealty to King Joffrey and prevent any strife between the great houses of Lannister and Stark. Your faithfull sister, Sansa.
It's obviously a trap. This didn't work originally, and Robb and Catelyn knew it was a sign that Sansa was being held hostage by Cersei. However, Arya is already suspicious of her sister, and this could drive a greater wedge between them.
Could the Letter Arya Found Be the End of Sansa on Game of Thrones? Let's Investigate
It seems like Arya Stark has been at Winterfell for only a day on Game of Thrones, but she is already on to Sansa and Littlefinger. In "Eastwatch," Arya observes that Sansa doesn't really defend Jon Snow to his critics in Winterfell, and she also takes note of Sansa's suspicious relationship with Littlefinger. This leads to Arya coming across something that makes Sansa look even more untrustworthy.
After trailing Littlefinger, Arya breaks into his room and reads a scroll that was hidden in the mattress. But because everything is moving so fast, you might have missed what, exactly, was in it. Sadly, things aren't looking good for Arya and Sansa's relationship.
The letter is actually from season one, when Cersei forced Sansa to write Robb and Catelyn Stark to break some big news and urge them to come to King's Landing. It reads:
Robb, I write to you with a heavy heart. Our good king Robert is dead, killed from wounds he took in a boar hunt. Father has been charged with treason. He conspired with Robert's brothers against my beloved Joffrey and tried to steal his throne. The Lannisters are treating me very well and provide me with every comfort. I beg you: come to King's Landing, swear fealty to King Joffrey and prevent any strife between the great houses of Lannister and Stark. Your faithfull sister, Sansa.
It's obviously a trap. This didn't work originally, and Robb and Catelyn knew it was a sign that Sansa was being held hostage by Cersei. However, Arya is already suspicious of her sister, and this could drive a greater wedge between them.
Lush's New Bath Bomb Is Basically a Shooting Star in Your Bathtub
Image Source: Lush
If you're like us, the closest you've ever gotten to being an astronaut is singing "Rocket Man" at karaoke. Lush is here to change that with its newest launch: Rocket Science Bath Bomb ($9).
No big deal or anything, but this bath bomb creates its own fizzy jet streams, which propel it through your tub like a comet in the night sky. If you don't have Boomerang, you might want download the app before this drops on Aug. 15, because this will look good as hell on Instagram.
Of course, it will feel even better on your body. Rocket Science is made of citrus oils, which are known to relieve stress. This is good, because owning this product practically makes us all astronauts, and that's a demanding job!
Image Source: Warner Bros.
Articles
