Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.

Mental Health

Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.

Public health

Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.

Reproductive Health

For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.

Health

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

vendredi 18 août 2017

The 25 Stars Who Keep Popping Up on American Horror Story

American Horror Story switches up its spooky theme each year, but there are usually a handful of recurring actors. Series staples like Evan Peters, Lily Rabe, and Sarah Paulson have appeared every season, but creator Ryan Murphy has added more and more actors to his growing stable throughout the years. Take a look at the many faces of the American Horror Story cast, including those on season six. We included everyone who has been on multiple seasons, even if they played the same character more than once, like Matt Ross (aka Dr. Charles Montgomery) or Naomi Grossman (aka Pepper).

9 Shocking Pieces of Information That Were Left Out of Making a Murderer

It's been over a year since Making a Murderer landed on Netflix, yielding theories about the fate of Teresa Halbach and a search for updates on the Steven Avery case. One of the most contentious points about the series, though, is how much evidence was omitted from the Netflix series. The creators have addressed these concerns; not only do they admit that they couldn't possibly have fit all the evidence, but they also assert that whatever they left out wouldn't have made a big difference anyway. Even so, we did a little digging to see what had been left out. It's worth noting that we're only citing what has been reported in the media since the show's release, so take from this information what you will. Keep reading to see what we uncovered, then check out even more ways to fuel your new addiction.

The Ultimate Country Music Wedding Playlist

Hoping to bring some honky-tonk personality to your wedding? With a mix of new and classic hits by Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, and more, we're highlighting the best country songs to play for a fun, memorable reception. With dance options, father/daughter ideas, must-play dance tunes - you'll find a range of song picks to give your party some country flair. Take a look at these 175 songs for your ultimate country wedding playlist, and get more music ideas for your wedding here!

Olivia and Fitz's 9 Most Scandalous Sex Scenes

Since Scandal's inception, the main focus of the hit drama has been Olivia Pope and President Fitzgerald Grant. Though watching her team of gladiators tackle insane political cases with ease is fantastic, the will-they-or-won't-they pull of "Olitz" takes the cake. Whether you're rooting for Olivia and Fitz or prefer her with Jake, there's no denying that the president and his mistress have a way of lighting up the screen. Throughout the show's five seasons, we've seen plenty of scandalous moments, including them getting frisky in the Oval Office, sharing heated kisses with the Secret Service a few steps away, and even epic "one-minute" stare-downs that are arguably even more intimate than their sex scenes. Keep reading for nine of the steamiest moments - so far. With the show back for the new season, there will surely be plenty more to come.

22 Behind-the-Scenes Moments on Game of Thrones That Will Change How You See Everyone

Game of Thrones might be the most intense show on TV, but it's not always so intense to make it. We imagine the show can be so wearing that you have to have fun behind the scenes, and that's exactly what it appears this close-knit cast does. If you're still reeling from this season, then you've got to see some of these hilarious and awkward behind-the-scenes moments. From blooper reels to their social media accounts, see what crazy stuff goes on on the Game of Thrones set when they yell "Cut!"

Prince Charles May Never Have Married Diana If This Hadn't Happened

Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein

On July 29, 1981, Prince Charles married Lady Diana Spencer in a royal wedding watched by 750 million people. Charles and Diana would go on to have an unhappy marriage filled with scandal, including Charles's widely reported affair with Camilla Parker Bowles. We all know how it ended: Charles and Diana divorced in 1996. Diana died tragically in 1997. And by 2005, Charles and Camilla had made things official and married.

But this whole saga may have been avoided, if it weren't for Camilla's shady father. Almost a decade before his wedding to Diana, Charles had already fallen for Camilla. In the Summer of 1972, the two began spending lots of time together. Camilla's longtime on-again-off-again boyfriend Andrew Parker Bowles was out of the country on army service, and she struck up a romantic relationship with Charles. According to the new biography Prince Charles by bestselling author Sally Bedell Smith, Charles felt at ease around Camilla, and they would spend evenings dancing at London nightclubs or have dinners together at Camilla's flat. That Fall, Camilla would stay with Charles at his uncle's estate so they could have "privacy" - and they became even closer.

Prince Charles and Camilla after a polo match during the Summer of 1972. Image Source: Getty / Hulton Deutsch

At 24, Charles worried he was too young to settle down. And since Camilla didn't at least "appear virginal," he hesitated to propose. At the time, anyone who "had a history" was not considered marriage material for royals. Yet in early January 1973, when Charles set sail for the Caribbean for naval duty, he still had strong feelings for her. Meanwhile, Camilla's former beau Andrew was back in London. That's when Andrew's brother and Camilla's father conspired to make them marry. Here's what Bedell Smith writes:

They intervened by publishing an engagement notice in The Times on March 15. His hand publicly forced, Andrew proposed to his girlfriend of nearly seven years.

By publishing an untruthful engagement notice, Camilla's father may have changed the course of history. When Charles was back in port a few days later, he heard the news of Camilla's engagement and was understandably shocked. According to Bedell Smith, "he couldn't understand how 'such a blissful, peaceful, and mutually happy relationship' had ended so abruptly, after such a promising start." If Andrew hadn't been forced to propose, Charles may have married Camilla first - instead of carrying on a disastrous affair with her during his marriage to Diana. Then again, we wouldn't have Prince William and Prince Harry or unimpressed Prince George and adorable Princess Charlotte.

These Are the 15 Movies From the '90s That You Need to Watch With Your Kids

Growing up in the '90s was the best of both worlds: I had epic '80s movies to play over and over again, and I got to live through 10 years of amazing film releases, many of which have stuck with me my whole life (and are still on constant rotation).

I spent half of 1997 begging my mom to buy me the Heart of the Ocean necklace, the better part of the late '90s trying to re-create "The Blob" with my camp friends (to no avail and with only minor injuries), and most of the decade singing "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)," "My Girl," and "We Are the Champions" at the top of my lungs. It was an exciting time to be alive, and though your children may never know what it was like to wait for a VHS tape to rewind (torture), these films need to be on a must-watch list so they can get a proper education of '90s culture.

Read through for the 15 movies from the '90s that you need to watch with your kids.

And be sure to check out these must-see flicks too:

Fruit Bars So Delicious, You'll Forget They're Also Healthy

20 Photos of Camila Alves and Her Kids That Might Make Your Heart Explode

When she's not showing off her gorgeous style or working on her empowering lifestyle blog, Camila Alves is doing one of the hardest jobs ever: parenting.

The Brazilian beauty is a proud mom to 7-year-old daughter Vida and sons Levi, 8, and Livingston, 4 - whose handsome father is Camila's Oscar-winning husband, Matthew McConaughey - and, just like the rest of us, Camila loves to share her precious family moments on Instagram, from her daughter's at-home pedicure skills to travel photos. Her little ones are beyond adorable - keep reading for a glimpse at all their sweetest snaps.

The Ultimate Indie Rock Wedding Playlist

If you're the type of person whose music tastes are a little more eclectic, chances are you're looking for some indie rock songs to play at your wedding. Luckily, we've got you covered so you don't have to search through Spotify to compile the perfect guide. Ahead, you'll find love tunes from your favorite bands and lesser-known names you might not be familiar with. Some are romantic enough for the first dance, and others are a bit more upbeat for other parts of the event. Listen to each song and, if you need more inspiration, check out even more wedding music ideas.

21 Modern Mysteries You Won't Be Able to Put Down

It all began with an early obsession with Nancy Drew, then I moved on to Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie, and before I knew it I was devouring any book that promised thrills, intrigue, and murder. Is there a detective in it? I'll read it. Bonus points if the protagonist is a woman. And the cherry on top is if the author is British or Scandinavian (or Irish). That said, Gone Girl is one of my favorite books of all time, so if you feel the same, you'll probably love my other picks. Obviously, this isn't an exhaustive list - I've only included books I can vouch for (aka that I've read) - but here are 21 modern mysteries guaranteed to keep you up all night, in order of tame to terrifying.

The Full Cast of Pitch Perfect 3

Pitch Perfect 3 is coming later this year, and we got a first look at footage earlier this week, reminding us about our favorite Bellas. We may only have a few details so far, but we do know much of the cast. Anna Kendrick is reprising her role as Beca, and she's not the only one who is set to return. Keep scrolling to see everyone who is signed on for the film (including the latest addition, DJ Khaled!), and check back as we update with more.

38 Sexy Reasons We Miss Charlie Hunnam on Sons of Anarchy

Sons of Anarchy has been over for a good while, and we can't even tell you how much we still miss Jax Teller. Charlie Hunnam portrayed the SAMCRO member for seven seasons, and the character - spoiler alert! - is killed off in the series finale. Hunnam is ridiculously sexy in real life, and creator Kurt Sutter has gotten us all excited with a full-blown prequel on the way. Remember Jax with all these moments - especially the NSFW GIFs at the end. You're welcome.

The 25 Stars Who Keep Popping Up on American Horror Story

American Horror Story switches up its spooky theme each year, but there are usually a handful of recurring actors. Series staples like Evan Peters, Lily Rabe, and Sarah Paulson have appeared every season, but creator Ryan Murphy has added more and more actors to his growing stable throughout the years. Take a look at the many faces of the American Horror Story cast, including those on season six. We included everyone who has been on multiple seasons, even if they played the same character more than once, like Matt Ross (aka Dr. Charles Montgomery) or Naomi Grossman (aka Pepper).

9 Shocking Pieces of Information That Were Left Out of Making a Murderer

It's been over a year since Making a Murderer landed on Netflix, yielding theories about the fate of Teresa Halbach and a search for updates on the Steven Avery case. One of the most contentious points about the series, though, is how much evidence was omitted from the Netflix series. The creators have addressed these concerns; not only do they admit that they couldn't possibly have fit all the evidence, but they also assert that whatever they left out wouldn't have made a big difference anyway. Even so, we did a little digging to see what had been left out. It's worth noting that we're only citing what has been reported in the media since the show's release, so take from this information what you will. Keep reading to see what we uncovered, then check out even more ways to fuel your new addiction.

The Ultimate Country Music Wedding Playlist

Hoping to bring some honky-tonk personality to your wedding? With a mix of new and classic hits by Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, and more, we're highlighting the best country songs to play for a fun, memorable reception. With dance options, father/daughter ideas, must-play dance tunes - you'll find a range of song picks to give your party some country flair. Take a look at these 175 songs for your ultimate country wedding playlist, and get more music ideas for your wedding here!

Olivia and Fitz's 9 Most Scandalous Sex Scenes

Since Scandal's inception, the main focus of the hit drama has been Olivia Pope and President Fitzgerald Grant. Though watching her team of gladiators tackle insane political cases with ease is fantastic, the will-they-or-won't-they pull of "Olitz" takes the cake. Whether you're rooting for Olivia and Fitz or prefer her with Jake, there's no denying that the president and his mistress have a way of lighting up the screen. Throughout the show's five seasons, we've seen plenty of scandalous moments, including them getting frisky in the Oval Office, sharing heated kisses with the Secret Service a few steps away, and even epic "one-minute" stare-downs that are arguably even more intimate than their sex scenes. Keep reading for nine of the steamiest moments - so far. With the show back for the new season, there will surely be plenty more to come.

22 Behind-the-Scenes Moments on Game of Thrones That Will Change How You See Everyone

Game of Thrones might be the most intense show on TV, but it's not always so intense to make it. We imagine the show can be so wearing that you have to have fun behind the scenes, and that's exactly what it appears this close-knit cast does. If you're still reeling from this season, then you've got to see some of these hilarious and awkward behind-the-scenes moments. From blooper reels to their social media accounts, see what crazy stuff goes on on the Game of Thrones set when they yell "Cut!"

5 Women Line Up to Oust Congressman Who Complained "Women Are in My Grill"

A congressman up for reelection in 2018 is finding that his challengers don't just represent the opposite party - they also represent the opposite sex.

Rep. David Brat, who currently represents the 7th district of Virginia, outraged many earlier this year after he complained about his constituents - specifically, women - at a conservative event.

"Since Obamacare and these issues have come up, the women are in my grill no matter where I go," Brat told the audience at a local tavern. "They come up - 'When is your next town hall?' And believe me, it's not to give positive input."

A fervent Trump supporter and Obamacare repeal advocate, Brat was one of the many members of Congress who attempted to dodge facing his constituency at town halls this Spring, though his choice to complain about his annoyance in a public forum was probably the worst possible way to handle it. Brat also made no attempt to sugarcoat or backtrack his sentiments after the fact; he instead chose to widen his circle of insults to include the far left as well, telling the Richmond Times-Dispatch, "I had one woman on my Facebook say she was going to get up in my grill. There's paid protesters . . . paid activists on the far left, not my Democratic friends I go to church with."

Now, Brat very well may be eating his words. In a district that is typically right-leaning, there are already six Democratic challengers lined up to oust him, five of which are women. And they're formidable challengers; according to The Washington Post, the group of candidates includes "a former CIA operative, a civil attorney and a Marine turned commercial airline pilot." The lone male in the race is a former Marine pilot who served in Hillary Clinton's state department.

It won't be easy, though. Brat won the district by 16 points and has incredible support from the Tea Party in addition to the Republican party and big-money donors. But armed with personal stories about the importance of the ACA, community development, universal income and a whole host of life experience, these six individuals appear ready to put up a fight.

7 Foods to Absolutely Avoid If You Want Clear, Glowing Skin

Two weeks ago, I went to Whole Foods and stocked up on coconut milk, almond butter, frozen veggies, fresh berries, organic meats, wild salmon, and quinoa. My boyfriend could interpret what this meant: Lauren is back on another food detox.

It started last Summer when I completed Dr. Frank Lipman's two-week Be Well Cleanse. This is a 14-day program in which you eliminate the food groups that most people are sensitive to, including gluten, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, nightshade vegetables, and eggs, among other things, replacing them with a plant-based diet that includes select organic lean meats and fish. You also drink three shakes a day incorporating Dr. Lipman's special blend of powders and take supplements. I learned a ton about myself, my habits, and my skin.

Though I have yet to return to the official cleanse, I do repeat some of the guidelines from it when I feel off-balance, seem bloated, or have less-than-desirable skin (blochy, broken out, puffy under-eyes). Typically, I try to eliminate gluten, dairy, and sugar for about a week or two until I feel and look better. Within three days of sticking to this diet plan, my skin brightens, I fall asleep easier and earlier, and my jeans fit better. It's not about dieting or losing weight; it's about creating harmony within my body. A healthy gut undeniably yields more gorgeous skin.

According to Dr. Lipman, "Your skin is your largest organ and a window into what's going on inside your body. Poor food choices that cause inflammation can lead to numerous skin issues."

If a cleanse is a bit dramatic for you, no worries. You can still reap some of the benefits by making these seven food swaps. Dr. Lipman outlined which foods to avoid, why they are toxic for your skin, and what to replace them with.

Why Selena's Dad Initially Didn't Approve of Her Romance With Chris Perez

Image Source: Everett Collection

It's been over two decades since Selena Quintanilla tragically died, but her family and husband Chris Perez have worked hard to keep her memory alive. As depicted in the 1997 biographical film, Selena and Chris first met in 1990 when the musician joined Selena's band as a guitarist. The two secretly began dating and eloped in April 1992. While Selena's family eventually found out about their relationship, one person who didn't initially approve of their romance was Selena's father, Abraham Quintanilla. According to Chris, "the main reason for that was it kind of hurt his pride and his ego to find out that he was the last to know," adding, "The worst thing he said to me was that I was like a cancer to his family. His family knew about us being together and was supportive; when he said that it was like, 'C'mon!'"

Selena and Chris had been married for three years when the singer was murdered by her fan club president, Yolanda Saldívar, in 1995. Since her passing, Chris wrote a book titled To Selena, With Love, in which he talks about their marriage, Selena's death, and her legacy. He also shared a photo of their marriage certificate on Facebook back in April 2017, writing, "It's hard to believe that today marks 25 years since Selena and I decided that the only way to be together...was to run away and get married (at 20 and 22 years old) in secret. What a rollercoaster ride THAT day was."

Image Source: Getty / Rodrigo Varela

This Reddit Hack Will Change How You Wash Your Makeup Brushes

Using a LEGO base plate to wash brushes is an affordable alternative to other methods! from MakeupAddiction

There is a plethora of makeup brush cleaning products on the market, but many of them can come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately for budget-concerned beauty addicts, one Reddit user has found an affordable alternative to the textured silicone gloves and mats sold for washing makeup brushes.

User happyidiot3791 explained in a post that she uses a Lego base plate to wash her brushes as an alternative to more expensive mats and gloves.

The method works because the raised circles on the Lego plate create enough texture for her soap-soaked brushes to be scrubbed, loosening makeup and dirt on her brushes. Using the toy is also much cheaper; a Lego Plate will only run you about $10, while brush cleaning accessories can cost upward of $40.

If you don't already have a Lego mat sitting around the house and aren't too excited about purchasing one, beauty brands are coming out with cheaper alternatives. The AOA Brush Cleaning Egg is only a dollar and is ideal if you only own a few brushes.

9 Things I Learned When I Sent My Baby to Sleep School

My baby girl wasn't a good sleeper. That's putting it politely; the truth is she was a pain in my ass and had me wondering what I was thinking when I decided to have children. Sleep deprivation had turned my whole world upside down.

Why did nobody warn me that babies don't come programmed to sleep? I knew there would be sleep-interrupted nights for feeds and dirty diapers, but my unknowing, premotherhood self believed sleep is something that comes naturally. Apparently not.

I drove myself crazy reading baby books to try to get my girl to sleep, but she resisted. Every day we faced off - me kneeling by the bed, patting and shushing and willing her to sleep, then commando crawling my way out of the room so as not to wake her, only to hear her cry as soon as I closed the door.

And she was a serial "catnapper," determined not to sleep longer than 45 minutes at a time during the day. This went on and on until I was on the verge of a mama meltdown. A friend recommended I try baby sleep school. I had no idea what this place was about, but if it could help me, then I was in. Behold: nine important things I learned while I was there.

Mom's Plea About the Overlooked Pool Danger That Almost Killed Her Girl

When it comes to pool safety, teaching your child how to swim isn't enough. Even if your child knows to walk on the pool deck and only swim when a lifeguard or adult is watching, there's another serious danger that's often overlooked. But after Alex Morgan's daughter almost died while on a family vacation, this furious mom is warning parents of another danger to look out for before their kiddos hit the pools this Summer.

When 6-year-old Darcey was enjoying a dip in the pool, she swam by a waterfall water feature. While the child's head was underwater, her hair got caught in the pool's filter and she got stuck. Unable to reach the surface, Darcey nearly drowned. "She was kept under the water for over two minutes," Alex shared on Facebook. "Some incredibly brave people saved our little girl's life that day. Her hair was pulled and pulled before it was ripped. Darcey was unconscious and had to be given CPR at the poolside."

Darcey was taken to the hospital, where she was kept overnight for low oxygen levels and fluid in her right lung. "This was the worst day of our lives. We are still suffering to come to terms with it all now but also feel incredibly lucky to still have our beautiful, brave little girl," Alex wrote. "Myself and Gareth don't want any other parents or family members to go through what we experienced that day. We will never get over what happened but if this post can raise some awareness, save someone's life, then we will be happy."

According to Elizabeth Klinefelter, Pool Safely campaign lead, parents should be aware of drain entrapment dangers at both public and private pools. "The federal government's drowning prevention program strongly recommends that children be taught to stay away from drains, suction outlets, and filters in swimming pools and spas," Elizabeth told POPSUGAR. "Children's hair - along with limbs, jewelry, or bathing suits - can get stuck in a drain or suction opening. In addition, parents and caregivers should never allow children to enter a pool or spa that has a loose, broken, or missing drain cover."

She also recommends that parents always locate the emergency vacuum shutoff before getting in a spa so that they know where and how to free someone if stuck.

The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was mandated in 2008 after a 7-year-old drowned due to a drain cover, and this federal law requires that all public pools, including hotels, schools, and apartment buildings, have the safer drain covers. According to a new Consumer Product Safety Commission report, there have still been 17 victims of entrapment from 2012-2016 and the majority of these cases involved kids.

"Children under the age of 15 are at risk of experiencing an entrapment incident, with higher fatality rates occurring in residential pools and spa settings," Elizabeth said. "Parents can never be too vigilant when their children are in or around the water to ensure everyone has a safer swimming experience."

Elizabeth also pointed out that residential pools are encouraged to install them but are not currently required to. This eye-opening video explains not only why pool drains can be so dangerous for kids but also that many pools across the country still have the flat drain covers and not the antientrapment version.

Every parent should take a minute to watch this video before their child's next trip to the pool:

The Story Behind Queen Letizia and King Felipe VI's Love


Image Source: Getty / Carlos Alvarez
King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain have been married for more than 13 years, and while the royal couple is solid, their relationship didn't start that smoothly.

Back in 2002, Queen Letizia was just known as Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, an international journalist working for Televisión Española, anchoring the evening news and reporting from abroad on disasters like the terrorist attack in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001 and the war in Iraq. Then Prince Felipe must have been a fan of the news because rumor has it he asked a journalist friend, Pedro Erquicia, to set up a dinner and invite Letizia so the two could meet. While reports say Letizia handed over her number to the prince, the two didn't start dating for a few more months.

Things got serious in the following years while the couple dated in secret, and on Nov. 1, 2003, the Spanish royal family shocked the country by announcing the prince's engagement to Letizia. But the marriage could have never happened: Letizia was not only a commoner, becoming the first woman with no royal blood to be in the line of succession for the Spanish crown, but she was also divorced. The journalist had been married to Alonso Guerrero Pérez until 1999.

While some didn't approve of the engagement, Prince Felipe's parents, Queen Sofía and King Juan Carlos, stood by the couple, although there was a bigger issue. If Letizia's previous marriage had been performed by the Catholic church, the Vatican would have had to extend a special permission that allowed her to marry Felipe. Luckily, Letizia's previous marriage had only been a civil ceremony, and the couple officially wed at the Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena in Madrid on May 22, 2004. Now the queen - King Juan Carlos abdicated the crown to King Felipe in 2014 - admired for her fashion sense, she has two daughters with Felipe, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía.

Image Source: Getty / Fotonoticias

5 Things You Better Not Put in Guacamole

In today's world, there are few things that we can agree are sacred. Guacamole is one of them. One of life's wonderful gifts that happens to be totally indulgent yet somehow healthy (it's just fruit, leave me alone), guacamole is a traditional Mexican dish, first created by the Aztecs. It's ubiquitous now, found as often in homes as a snack as it as a side in Mexican restaurants. Its popularity has led to the usual culinary tinkering, and sometimes that's great. But other times, it goes way too far.

Nouveau Mexican restaurants (read: not your corner taqueria) have felt the need to chic-ify guacamole and mess with an already immaculate recipe. Amateur home chefs think their familiarity with the dip qualifies them to decide what really goes in guacamole - and we're not talking about avocados. The fallout can be (and has been) huge. The world all but ground to a halt when The New York Times published a controversial recipe for guacamole with green peas in 2015. Two years later, the message is clear. 1) People take guacamole very seriously and 2) We should take other stuff as seriously as we take guacamole.

But you came here wondering how I was going to tell you how to live your life, so let's get back to that. First off, I'm not saying you can't tinker with guacamole. There are certain ingredients that enhance an already good thing. There are things that other people add to guacamole all the time that I don't personally like (begone, onions). You're an adult who is allowed to make your guacamole how you want to make it, and that's your call - but if you're adding any of these below, I'm just saying: you're doing it wrong. Like what you like, but when it comes to guacamole, there is a right and wrong way of doing things, and I'm just trying to save you from embarrassment and the loss of eating something that can be perfect. Worse, my Grandma Pat, one of the world's best Mexican chefs, would laugh you out of your kitchen.


Here's a list of what not to add - unless, you know, you want your party guests talking about your guac behind your back. And if you can't resist any of these? Maybe just don't call it "guacamole."

1. Mayonnaise

When I was in college, my boyfriend at the time repeatedly tried to tell me that not only should mayonnaise be in guacamole, but that you're supposed to make it with mayonnaise. I've mostly blocked out this memory due to its traumatizing nature, but I recall there being some sort of argument for enhancing the texture. Make no mistake: if your avocados are ripe, the texture of your guacamole will be perfect.

2. Peas

The aforementioned "peacamole" recipe from The New York Times incited a firestorm of disgust and commentary that was perhaps unwarranted. Peas don't even really affect the taste that much, they followed up in their own defense. So then: why are we adding peas, anyway?! Haven't you ever heard the phrase, "If it ain't broke, don't add f*cking peas to it"?

3. Sour Cream

An extension of number one and another texturizer, only this adds a sour taste. What are you doing here?!

4. Pomegranate Seeds

Perhaps the hipster-iest ingredient to add to guacamole, pomegranate seeds became so trendy that they ended up studding guacamole in certain restaurants. I am all for creativity, but no, not those, not here. Not this.

5. Cheese

Friend: save the cheese for the nachos. It does not need to be in your guac.

For the record, I make my guacamole the way my grandma did: with just avocados, tomatoes, a little jalapeño, fresh garlic, cilantro (a controversial ingredient itself), lime juice, pepper, and more salt than you think is possibly necessary. It hasn't let anyone down yet.

What It's Like to Be Both Mexican and Jewish

Although you may think that all Latinos are Catholic, this is incorrect. I was born in Mexico City, and, like my parents, I was raised Jewish.

My life in Mexico was pretty simple; I lived in a Jewish bubble. I went to a Jewish day school, had only Jewish friends, and lived in a primarily Jewish neighborhood. While I was aware that I was a minority, it never really affected me. I loved participating in traditionally Mexican events. One of my favorite memories of Mexico is when my mom took me to the cemetery to join the Día de los Muertos festivities. I was amazed at all the unique and beautiful colors, food, and photos that decorated the graves.

I never felt ashamed of being Jewish and only later realized that some Mexicans didn't consider me a "real Mexican." One day, a local vendor walking around Mexico City's Centro Histórico called me a güera (blonde). He was basically calling me a gringa due to my pale skin. It caught me by surprise and probably hurt me more than I could even understand at that time.

My life changed when I moved to Miami when I was 8 years old. I no longer went to a Jewish school, most of my friends weren't Jewish, and the people I met were from all over Latin America. My Latino-Jewish friends understood my background and upbringing perfectly, and most of them were raised with similar experiences. Just like me, they had grown up in Jewish neighborhoods in places like Colombia or Venezuela and moved to Miami seeking a better and safer life. I also had a lot in common with my non-Jewish Latin friends. We bonded over food and culture, as well as our nagging Latino parents.

My first real culture shock occurred when an American-Jewish girl asked me if it was my dad who was Mexican and my mom Jewish, or the other way around. She couldn't fathom both my parents being Jewish and Mexican. Since then, I've probably gotten asked a variation of this question a million times. Even other Jewish people have a hard time understanding my background. People ask me, "If you're a Mexican Jew, then that has to mean you're Sephardic, right?" or "You can't be Ashkenazi, you're from Mexico" or even, "How are you white AND Mexican?"

Judaism includes several ethnic divisions, but Sephardic and Ashkenazi are two of the most common. A Sephardic Jew is someone whose family originates from places like Spain, Turkey, Portugal, and Greece; an Ashkenazi Jew's family originates from Central and Eastern Europe and Russia. A lot of people assume that because I'm from a Spanish-speaking country, my ancestors must have come from Spain, but I have no connection to Spain whatsoever. Three out of my four grandparents migrated from Russia, Lithuania, and Poland to Mexico after the Holocaust, making me three-fourths Ashkenazi. I'm also a fourth Sephardic because my paternal grandfather migrated from Turkey to Mexico in the 1900s.

On the Jewish sabbath, my family dines on Mexican-Jewish dishes like like gefilte fish a la Veracruzana or schnitzel with salsa verde.
Another part of my upbringing that people are intrigued by is what food is served in my house. Sometimes, we eat traditional Mexican food like sopes and taquitos, and other times we eat Jewish food like matzah ball soup and kugel. Every Friday night on the Jewish sabbath, my family dines on Mexican-Jewish dishes like like gefilte fish a la Veracruzana (fish patties cooked in a spicy tomato sauce) or schnitzel with salsa verde. The only time my family can't enjoy traditional Mexican dishes is when they don't meet Jewish dietary laws and include food like pork and shellfish, which aren't kosher.

My Mexican-Jewish traditions didn't seem that unique to me until I moved to Boston for college. It was then that I realized I couldn't relate to many American-Jewish traditions. Many of my new American-Jewish friends had gone to Jewish schools, attended a Jewish sleepaway camp every Summer, and joined Jewish youth groups during the school year. I had never stepped foot in a sleepaway camp, and the last Jewish school I had attended was in Mexico.

However, it was the different song and prayer tunes they used in synagogue that really opened my eyes. Songs that I had learned in Mexico and Miami were completely different in Boston. I ultimately realized that these are differences that every foreigner deals with. College introduced me to people from different parts of the world, of different cultures and religions. Although some Latinos viewed me as a faux-Latina due to my religion, others saw beyond that and saw me as one of them.

If there is one thing that being a Mexican Jew has taught me, it is the importance of both my family and my heritage. I may not know what's ahead for me, but I do know this: my kids will be raised in a Spanish-speaking home with chilaquiles for breakfast, baklava for dessert, and Shabbat dinners every Friday night.

20 Memorable Movies About Female Friendship

The female friendship movie is a totally different animal than the romantic comedy, and yet they often get lumped together under one big "chick flick" banner. While Hollywood goes heavy on the bromances, it's the movies about girlfriends (girl-mances? lady-mances?) that we return to again and again. Here are 19 of our favorite movies about female friendship.

- Additional reporting by Kate Emswiler and Kimra McPherson

27 Quotes From Supernatural's Crowley That You'll Definitely Need in Your 20s

After years of obsessing over The CW's hit TV show Supernatural, you start to learn a few things. For one, there will always be plenty of steamy pictures of Sam and Dean. What's more, the Winchester brothers are the best and baddest duo on television. But the boys aren't the only reason fans tune in week after week - there's one demon who never fails to make us laugh. That's right, we're talking about the one and only king of Hell, Crowley (Mark Sheppard). To help commemorate our love, we're using iconic Crowley GIFs to guide you through the shortcomings and pitfalls of your 20s.

21 Summer Style Hacks to Steal From Amal Clooney and Wear to Work

While there's no denying the power of a statement dress - and Amal Clooney's ability to rock one on the red carpet - it's her work outfits that really get us. She always manages to appear so poised, so polished. You can tell Amal stands behind the styling when it comes to her professional ensembles.

Since we often tend to err on the side of caution when it comes to hemlines and cuts in the Summer, we're tapping the always-modest Amal for inspiration. Before you head to the office, take a scroll through the lawyer and activist's best warm-weather looks and keep note of her amazing hacks. As the temperatures rise, we promise you'll want to take advantage of them all.

How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes With Household Ingredients

We all know that it's bad for us to use dirty makeup brushes on our skin - come on, you wash your face twice a day, but how often do you actually give your tools the same kind of love? If you've been skipping because you're worried about hurting your brushes, we've got an easy DIY way to clean them all up safely. And don't forget to find the makeup brush that's right for you too!

Ingredients:

Olive oil
Antibacterial soap

Steps:

Step 1: Mix two parts antibacterial dish soap to one part of the extra-virgin olive oil on a clean plate (don't use paper plate, as the oil will seep through).

Step 2: Grab your first brush and wet it slightly with lukewarm water. Make sure the brush stays bristle-side down throughout the entire process. If water gets into the ferrule (the middle tube part that holds everything together) of the brush, it can loosen the glue, causing the bristles to fall out.

Step 3: Dip the damp brush into the soap mixture and coat it thoroughly. Next, work the mixture into the bristles using the palm of your hand and fingers. Continue until the soapy residue is makeup free.

Step 4: Rinse the brushes under lukewarm water until no soap runs from the bristles.

Step 5: Roll a dish towel like you would a yoga mat, and drape a paper towel over it so that most of the paper towel hangs off. (The paper towel should look like a slide coming down from the dish towel). Next, arrange the brush so the top of the handle sits on top of the towel, pitching the rest of the brush down onto the paper towel. This will allow your brushes to dry on a slant, while keeping moisture away from the ferrule.

Repeat with remaining brushes. Some make take two washings to get completely clean, depending on the amount of residue left behind. Allow them to dry overnight, and repeat about once a month.

17 Times Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello Are the Best Couple Ever

Sofia Vergara and Joe Manganiello have been married for almost two years, and they are still in the honeymoon phase. These two love supporting each other and don't shy away from showing their passion for each other out in public and social media. We love stalking their feeds to see what cute picture, video, or moment they are going to have next.

What we're saying is we're obsessed, so we've rounded up some of our favorite moments between the hot couple that made us wish for the love that they have. See them all ahead, and then check out all of the times they were almost too adorable together.

100+ Outfits That Show Off Jennifer Lopez's Legs in All Their Glory

Jennifer Lopez switches it up every time she's on the red carpet. One day she's wearing a naked dress, and another she's rocking workout gear while walking the streets of New York. Usually we see J Lo showing off her killer abs, but what we really love is when she shows off her amazing legs. Prepare to stare and stare some more at 100 photos of Jennifer giving Angelina Jolie and her legs a run for their money.

Nina Dobrev Admits She Was Terrified to Leave The Vampire Diaries

Nina Dobrev rose to fame with her many roles on The Vampire Diaries, but now she's putting all that behind her and making a new name for herself. Since the series wrapped earlier this year, the 28-year-old has been busy starring in new projects, going on fun adventures with her friends, and using her social media presence to voice her opinions about the current POTUS. Even though she has a lot of plates spinning at the moment, the actress managed to squeeze in a little time to grace the cover of Harper's Bazaar's September issue. Aside from looking absolutely gorgeous, per usual, she also opened up about her addiction to trying new things, why she left TVD, and how her immigrant background has shaped her political views. See her best quotes ahead.

Pop Culture Halloween: 42 Costume Ideas For BFFs

You know what's better than going to a Halloween party with your best friend? Dressing up with your best friend as best friends from a movie or a TV show. (Did I just blow your mind?) In preparation for the spooky holiday, we've rounded up some classic pairs from popular films and shows to inspire your pop culture Halloween. Click through and let us know who you and your BFF will be styled as come Oct. 31! If not of these strike you fancy, we have plenty of other ideas.

12 Things I Wish Non-Food-Allergy Moms Understood

Quite simply: moms of kids with food allergies live in a different reality than those whose kids can eat anything, anytime. It's just the truth. It's hard to explain the fear that comes with learning that a smidgen of peanut butter, a single sesame seed, or a bite of a cupcake could be fatal for your child. I also know it's equally hard to empathize unless you're dealing with it yourself - I never got it until my son was diagnosed with a life-threatening food allergy. You may not always get it either, but being more understanding never did any harm, so check out a few things that I wish nonallergy moms understood a little better.

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.

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.

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.

Why I Held My Son Up by One Leg at Target


It had to be done. I had no other choice.

Let me explain why I had to hold my son up by one leg in the middle of Target . . .

Just yesterday I found myself at Target. I had somehow managed to find a shopping cart that didn't have a squeaky wheel. I was so proud of myself. And because it didn't squeal like an upset child the whole way down the aisle, I had high hopes for my little shopping trip.

Owen sat sweetly in the front of the cart as I began to look at all of the different cards and party supplies. As I passed red balloons and bright green and blue gift bags, I noticed the bright fluorescent lights and elevator-sounding music that was playing. Owen didn't seem to notice. He was too busy playing with his little black seat belt. I turned my attention back to the party supplies. And for a whole minute I peacefully enjoyed all the different party options.

Owen was being quiet. That should have been my first clue.

If you are a mother, then you know that when there is silence, a mother's attention is needed. But by the time my eyes found Owen, he was escaping from his seat like a little wiggle worm. In a split second, he was standing up in the front of the cart, backward, and trying to break free from his seat belt! When I started to grab him, I had to unbuckle him in order to help him not be stuck.

If Owen could talk, I know he would have yelled, "Freedom!" Because the moment I unfastened his seat belt, he jumped. He dove toward the back of the cart head first as he tried to make his escape.

I literally caught him by one leg.

It had to be done. I had no other choice. I had to grab my son by one leg and hold him up midair. There I was, holding my 9-month-old upside down in the middle of Target.

Half snickering to myself, the rhyme, "Catch a tiger by his toe . . . " came to mind. But before I burst into laughter, I started freaking out. What if someone saw me? I could just imagine someone speaking over the intercom, "Crazy mom on aisle three! Get her!"

Thankfully no one saw our little stunt.

20 Songs You Adored From the Original Dirty Dancing Soundtrack

Dirty Dancing is more than the story of one girl's sexual awakening over a sweaty Summer in the Catskills; it's a rollicking good time filled with hits from the '60s. While ABC has remade the movie and replaced nearly all the songs with modern covers, we'll always be partial to the original soundtrack. It features Frankie Valli, The Ronnettes, Otis Redding, The Drifters, and more. Of course, the crown jewel of the collection is "(I've Had) The Time of My Life." Listen to all the songs below, and flash back to the first time you ever saw Baby carry that watermelon.

The 10 Hands-Down Sexiest Looks Thalia's Worn on the Red Carpet

Thalia is no stranger to a stunning red carpet look. Through the years, the Mexican superstar has made us do a double take on the red carpet more than a few times, showing up in a gorgeous black lace gown to 2016's Premio Lo Nuestro, wearing strapless and curve-showing dresses like a total boss, and never shying away from color. It wasn't easy, but we dug through her fashion archives and managed to find her top 10 sexiest red carpet looks.

Related stories written by Thalia:

10 Fascinating Facts About Drew Scott's Fiancée, Linda Phan

Since Drew Scott announced his over-the-top engagement to girlfriend Linda Phan, Property Brothers fans everywhere have been wondering about the woman who stole the HGTV star's heart. We did a little digging and discovered that Linda is smart, fun, and the perfect addition to the Scott family, although it seems she's unofficially been a part of the clan for years now. Get to know Linda better by reading about her ahead.

Jaime Lannister Shows Off Those Game of Thrones Muscles by Lifting Lin-Manuel Miranda

Um, Daenerys Targaryen might want to watch out on Game of Thrones, because Jaime Lannister has some serious strength. Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, who plays Jaime on the hit HBO show, stopped by The Late Late Show on Wednesday night to chat about his other exciting project (we know, it's hard to think about him in any other place except King's Landing), his upcoming film Shot Caller. After telling host James Corden that the movie is set in a prison, Nikolaj revealed that he's pretty much perfected a few workout moves that are popular behind bars. To prove his strength, he had fellow guest Lin-Manuel Miranda hop on his shoulders while he did a few squats. While it has been hard to look at Nikolaj on Game of Thrones recently (seriously, ANOTHER baby with your sister?!), we could watch this all day long.

The Best New Trader Joe's Products From 2017 - So Far

One of the best things about Trader Joe's is that it's constantly releasing new products for customers to try, and we're not just talking about the free samples. Shopping at Trader Joe's is never boring thanks to the never-before-seen foods available every month, and 2017 is already off to a fantastic start. We're keeping up with every single new offering from Trader Joe's to let you know which items are worth the purchase and which ones you should skip. Ahead, read up on all the best new Trader Joe's products of the year so far, and add your favorites to your shopping list the next time you head to TJ's.

- Additional reporting by Jamie Mieuli

Want to Watch the Solar Eclipse? Here's Where You Can Find Safe Glasses

As science-lovers everywhere prepare for the Aug. 21 solar eclipse, news stories about sales of counterfeit eclipse-viewing glasses have emerged. NASA, which issued a safety guide for viewing the eclipse back in July, advises following strict criteria for eclipse eyewear to avoid damaging your vision. But because high demand has led to many retailers selling out of the proper eyewear, it's important to do your research before purchasing a pair that claims to meet those standards.

Luckily, the American Astronomical Society has made it easy to find eclipse glasses near you. Thanks to the AAS's guide to reputable vendors, you can shop in safety leading up to the solar phenomenon. In addition to thousands of libraries and event centers offering free NASA-approved eclipse glasses nationwide, you can also find approved eyewear at several common retailers, including:

  • 7-Eleven
  • Best Buy
  • Bi-Mart
  • Hobby Town
  • Kirklands
  • Kroger
  • Lowe's
  • Maverick
  • Pilot / Flying J
  • Toys "R" Us
  • Wal-Mart

In the event that your local retailer (or any of the other vendors listed on the AAS guide) is sold out, NASA suggests using a homemade pinhole projector to view the eclipse. There will also be free live streams available online if you're not in an optimum viewing location, so don't stress about your options!

Read up on how to keep your eyes safe during the eclipse, and then get excited for its next occurrence on Aug. 21!

Want to Watch the Solar Eclipse? Here's Where You Can Find Safe Glasses

As science-lovers everywhere prepare for the Aug. 21 solar eclipse, news stories about sales of counterfeit eclipse-viewing glasses have emerged. NASA, which issued a safety guide for viewing the eclipse back in July, advises following strict criteria for eclipse eyewear to avoid damaging your vision. But because high demand has led to many retailers selling out of the proper eyewear, it's important to do your research before purchasing a pair that claims to meet those standards.

Luckily, the American Astronomical Society has made it easy to find eclipse glasses near you. Thanks to the AAS's guide to reputable vendors, you can shop in safety leading up to the solar phenomenon. In addition to thousands of libraries and event centers offering free NASA-approved eclipse glasses nationwide, you can also find approved eyewear at several common retailers, including:

  • 7-Eleven
  • Best Buy
  • Bi-Mart
  • Hobby Town
  • Kirklands
  • Kroger
  • Lowe's
  • Maverick
  • Pilot / Flying J
  • Toys "R" Us
  • Wal-Mart

In the event that your local retailer (or any of the other vendors listed on the AAS guide) is sold out, NASA suggests using a homemade pinhole projector to view the eclipse. There will also be free live streams available online if you're not in an optimum viewing location, so don't stress about your options!

Read up on how to keep your eyes safe during the eclipse, and then get excited for its next occurrence on Aug. 21!

This Gender Reveal Photo Shoot Is What Disney Dreams Are Made Of

For soon-to-be parents Megan and Ryan, one of their first real loves was Disney. After getting married, the fun-loving couple even opted for their photographer to capture a playful honeymoon shoot at Epcot. When the pair found out that they were expecting, it almost felt fateful that their beloved wedding photographer already had a trip planned to Florida and they immediately knew that they wanted to plan a gender reveal session at Disney World.

The only problem with this exciting idea was that at Megan's most recent doctor's appointment, the doctor was unable to say the baby's gender with complete certainty. Although he suspected it was a girl, Megan wouldn't be able to find out for sure until the day after Dawn Browne's, of Degrees North Images, flight back to Texas.

To play it safe, they decided to take photos with both baby boy and girl props in order to be prepared for either gender. They spent the afternoon at Disney's boardwalk so they could have room away from all of the pedestrians while still taking advantage of colorful backdrops. When it was confirmed that the expecting parents were having a baby girl, nobody was more thrilled than Ryan! "Our dad to be was so excited (he would only take pictures with the little girl shoes)," Browne told POPSUGAR. "Now we are all looking forward to future photo shoots with the newest Disney princess!"

Zoom In on This Girl’s Bloody Halloween Makeup . . . If You Dare

This 16-year-old girl from Australia is so talented at replicating gore, her masterpieces have us zooming in to see if they're actually real! We first spotted Rani's gut-wrenching looks in Seventeen. The special effects artist has created quite the buzz with her disgustingly realistic designs posted on her Instagram feed.

From "carving" the bloodiest Converse high-top we've ever seen on her foot to "implanting" a calculator into her wrist, every look is completely horrifying. Rani is most definitely aware of how realistic her makeup looks because her Instagram bio even says "Everything on this page is makeup." Keep reading to see some of Rani's most disturbing special effects looks, but beware: if you get grossed out easily, you may want to turn back now!

The 10 States With the Worst School Systems

If you're like most modern parents, you probably agonized over which school district you'd be able to send your kids to. But did you ever stop to think about how the state your school district is in stacks up against the rest?

Turns out, one of the best schools in California might not measure up to a mediocre one in Illinois. A middle-of-the-road school in Kentucky might be a better environment than a sought-after one in New York. WalletHub, a leading personal finance site, just released findings from an in-depth study of the nation's school systems, and, after comparing the overall quality of education using more than a dozen key metrics, they determined a definitive ranking of the 50 states.

Massachusetts led the U.S., while Alaska bottomed out the list. How were these states scored? Obvious data, like standardized-test scores, were factored into the results, as were teacher-student ratios, dropout rates, the amount of recorded bullying incidents, and crime statistics.

The 10 States With the Best Schools

  1. Massachusetts
  2. Colorado
  3. New Jersey
  4. Wisconsin
  5. Kentucky
  6. Vermont
  7. North Dakota
  8. Minnesota
  9. Connecticut
  10. Illinois

The 10 States With the Worst Schools

  1. New Mexico
  2. California
  3. West Virginia
  4. South Carolina
  5. Oregon
  6. Louisiana
  7. Arizona
  8. Nevada
  9. District of Columbia
  10. Alaska

Regardless of where your state ranks overall (the complete list can be found at WalletHub), you'll want to see how it fares on the individual categories. Some highlights:

  • For those wanting more one-on-one attention between student and teacher, Vermont has the nation beat. Its pupil-student ratio was twice as low as California, which had the most kids per educator.
  • Wisconsin houses the safest schools, while Arkansas had the highest percentage of students who reported being threatened or injured with a weapon on school property at least once in the past year.
  • In North Dakota, the average SAT test score is 40% higher than in District of Columbia.
  • The percentage of high school graduates who completed an AP exam in high school is four times higher in the District of Columbia than in Mississippi.
  • Vermont school systems have the biggest expenditures while Utah spends the least of any state.
  • Florida students have the least to fear when it comes to bullying, but Montana saw the highest amount of students who were targets of online bullies. 
 

  • The District of Columbia's dropout rate is four times higher than Iowa's.

You might think that there's not a lot you can do if you happen to be living in one of the low-ranking states - aside from packing up and moving the whole family to, say, Boston or Boulder.

"By shining the spotlight on top-performing school systems," the WalletHub team of experts stated in a release, "we aim to encourage parents to help their children realize their maximum potential and to call the attention of lawmakers on the work that remains to be done to improve America's schools."

A Very Important Ranking of Daenerys's 7 Game of Thrones Love Interests

The following contains minor spoilers for Game of Thrones season seven.

"Fire cannot kill a dragon," so it makes sense that dragon queen Daenerys Targaryen consistently surrounds herself with smokin' hotties. But which love interest in Dany's life is most worthy of her affection? There have been many romantic suitors over the course of seven seasons, and each of them comes with pros and cons . . . but when it boils down to it, there is a clear winner in Daenerys's game of love.

We've ranked every romantic prospect in the mother of dragons' life. Keep reading to see if you agree with our number one pick!