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 3 octobre 2017
5 (Actually Doable) Tips For Immediately Increasing Your Writing Income
Let me paint you a word picture of an Extra Fun Feeling We Have All Had at Some Point in Our Lives.
It goes a little something like this:
You're a writer. You know you're good. In fact, numerous clients have told you so and you still have a full roster – not to mention plenty of work. The only problem? You're not seeing any increase in your income, which is confusing: Aren't professionals supposed to make more the longer they work? What are you doing wrong? Are you some sort of business Quasimodo, ill-formed and unable to do what everyone else seems to get easily?
No. I promise you, that's not it. Plus, don't dis Quasimodo . . . that dude had heart.
You've hit a plateau, which is actually quite common in the writing world. You get good at a certain type of writing, working with a certain type of client, marketing in a certain way. This is natural: I've been there, you've been there. Stephen King has probably been there.
Stephen King may not have been there.
Either way, if you respond correctly, you'll be surprised by how quickly your income starts rising again. How, you wonder? Glad you asked. Here are five doable (like, actually doable) steps to take today.
1. Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
Yes, LinkedIn. That thing you sort of half-assedly "did" about five years back and haven't thought about since, except when some rando from your alma mater occasionally asks you to . . . well, be whatever it is you are to people on LinkedIn.
Don't do that. Instead, jump on LinkedIn and put some serious time into your profile. I'm talking at least a half day. Include:
- A long summary. Mine is three paragraphs, plus keywords
- Keywords (see example)
- Every job, school, and certification you have
- Recommendations, which you can get by giving others recommendations or emailing people outright. Go for the good ones, though, and don't overdo it
- Skills
I've gotten a ton of clients through LinkedIn, and am getting more all the time. Take this seriously.
2. Upsell Your Current Clients
Isn't that a little mercenary? you're wondering. Shouldn't I just be grateful they let me work for them at all and leave it at that?
No. Your current clients are not only a goldmine, they need more of your services if they want to increase their business expertise and make more money themselves. When you finish a project, let them know what your related services are. Help them pimp out their sales funnels, start or post more to their blog, write thought-leader-quality articles, get a consistent email newsletter going, and more. Don't be afraid to suggest additional services; most people are looking for guidance, and if you don't step in, someone else will.
3. Raise Your Prices
Get your face out of that paper bag and breathe like a normal human being. It might sound like the world's worst idea, but raising your prices is a fantastic way to ensure you get paid more. Beyond the obvious fact that, uh, you'll get paid more, you also increase your perceived expertise every time you do this.
That means when new clients come to your site, you'll look even more professional. And it makes preexisting clients feel like working with you is an even better idea now, so there's a good chance this will motivate them to come back.
4. Axe Half of Your Services
No, I'm not crazy. You're crazy if you think other professionals are looking for a writer/editor/photographer/social media manager/carrot cake expert, all in one. Anyone who's serious about their business (i.e. anyone you actually want to work with) is looking for real expertise. As a writer, you can demonstrate that by limiting what you offer. Copywriting and copyediting, okay. Ebooks and fiction, okay. Social media photo curation and visual branding? Probably best not to combine that with your wordy services, sorry.
5. Tell People What You DO, For Crying Out Loud
If you're a writer – or a creative of any type, really – then you know what I mean when I say it's hard to talk about what you do. We all deal with insecurities, slow periods, the unfounded belief that we are not worthy to call ourselves writers, and other such pleasant thoughts and emotions. All of which is to say, sometimes when people ask us about our business, changing the subject starts to look more appealing than a lunch date with Channing Tatum.
But you would be surprised by the return on investment this simple step can generate. If people know what you do, in detail, then you are much likelier to stay top of mind for them, and much likelier to generate more income.
So next time someone asks, resist the urge to mumble "umimawriternobiggie" and move on. Instead, answer the question openly and frankly, and don't be afraid to pitch: Here's what I do, here's whom I do it for, let me know if I can help you or someone you know. Boom.
Now, I'm not claiming that these steps will triple your income in three months, or make you the talk of Stephen King's dinner table. But if you consistently implement these tips (consistency is key), then you absolutely will see a difference in your income. You can bust through that plateau and ensure you continue to rise throughout the months and years of your career. Sounds pretty good, right?
Go forth, my writing friend, and conquer.
The Story Behind Day of the Dead
El Día De Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is one of Latin America's most misunderstood holidays. The day celebrated just after Halloween (usually on Nov. 1 and 2) features a variety of "spooky costumes" and decor, which causes many people to mistakenly think of it as "Mexican Halloween."
The holiday began as an Aztec harvest gathering originally celebrated around the end of Summer, with people using the time to honor those loved ones who had passed away. When Spanish conquistadors came into the area, they sought to bring Catholic influence to the Latin-American region, tying Day of the Dead to the Catholic traditions of All Saints' and All Souls' Day, which respectively serve to call us to live as saints and to ask for God's mercy for all souls by praying for them. The farming celebration was thus moved to November and converted into a sacred holiday to honor the dead. But the Day of the Dead is far from a somber occasion; instead, it's a lively celebration, complete with food, music, colorful decorations, and candles.
The Day of the Dead's two-day structure allows families to remember children who have died on the first day and adults on the second. Celebrators believe the spirits of their loved ones are allowed to join and communicate with the people they left behind on those two days. The celebration encourages that idea with people leaving out sugar skulls (calaveras), toys for kids, and food for adults, along with alcohol and some of their beloved possessions (such as clothing, music, or photos).
The celebration also includes leaving ofrendas on beautiful homemade altars decorated with cutouts of skulls and skeletons on papel picado (punched or pierced paper), which symbolizes wind and the fragility of life. These altars are decorated and then left in either the person's home or on their tomb to show that they have not been forgotten, welcoming them back to visit.
One of the most widely recognized symbols of the holiday is La Catrina, or "the lady in the hat," a female skeleton who wears an elegant, brightly colored dress. Unlike the skeletons associated with Halloween, La Catrina is not meant to scare people on the Day of the Dead, but rather show that it's OK to laugh at death itself. Her elegance is also meant to refer to rich people to show that in death, we are all equal.
While El Día de los Muertos was initially only celebrated in Mexico, it has since evolved to other countries including the US, thanks to the rapidly growing Hispanic population and an increasing influence of Latin-American culture.
So, while on the surface the Day of the Dead might appear to mirror Halloween, the holidays are actually vastly different with the Latin-American tradition remembering the lives of those who have left us and briefly inviting them back instead of inciting fear. Through this two-day gathering, families celebrate death as a beautiful, joyful, and symbolic event.
1 Mom's "Raising Women Who Will Get Sh*t Done" Is the Textbook Definition of Motivation
Kathleen Galloway couldn't help but feel bad for her daughter who was bullied at school. But rather than letting her kiddo wallow, she decided to take a motivational approach and shared her pep talk in an Instagram post:
I'm raising a cheerleading squad of bad asses over here. I'm raising women who will get sh*t done. Who won't EVER let a boy tell them otherwise. Who will throw a punch the next time a boy tells them they're less then amazing. My Lu, you are the freaking radest chick I know. Never doubt your beauty, ability, brains and above all your confidence. Keep on chanting how gorgeous inside and out you are, girlfriend. And never forget you have the biggest cheerleaders in your court.
"I posted [the Instagram] after a little boy at school called her fat and ugly. It seriously ignited a fire," she explained to POPSUGAR. "We chanted [it] on the way to school the next day. His words didn't even faze us or change how gorgeous we were." Talk about a tight-knit squad!
Coldplay Pays Tribute to Tom Petty With an Amazing Cover of "Free Fallin'"
Following the minute of silence, Peter Buck joined the band for this wonderful rendition of Freefalling by Tom Petty.
R42 http://pic.twitter.com/KzRMHYGKwS- Coldplay (@coldplay) October 3, 2017
A few hours after the heartbreaking news of Tom Petty's death broke on Monday, Coldplay paid tribute to the music legend during their concert in Portland. After taking a moment of silence for the victims of the Las Vegas shooting, the band joined forces with R.E.M.'s Peter Buck to perform a special rendition of "Free Fallin'" for the crowd. This is just the latest example of how stars are paying their respects to the late singer. Shortly after Petty passed away, celebrities took to social media to share their favorite memories and songs from the legendary musician. See Coldplay's moving performance above.
This evening's Portland show began with a minute's silence. The entire arena lit only by people's phones.
When words fail, sometimes quiet is the most eloquent.
R42 http://pic.twitter.com/HvrbO8l56y- Coldplay (@coldplay) October 3, 2017
15 Eyebrow-Raising Halloween Costume Ideas For Kids
We get it - not everyone's into cutesy and sweet costumes. And we're willing to bet that you'll have more than a few puppy dogs and Disney princesses ringing your bell come trick-or-treat time. But when you're attempting to transform your kids into something original, there's a fine line between clever and tasteless. Scroll through to see some of the most eyebrow-raising costume ideas for kids we've come across.
Which do you think is the worst?
124 Pumpkin Spice Offerings, Ranked From Worst to Best
Last year we tried everything and anything pumpkin spice - all told, 83 pumpkin-spice-flavored foods - to find the winners and the losers. This year, we're back at it: here's everything you can find on shelves now, ranked from worst to best.
- Additional reporting by Anna Monette Roberts
The Absolute Best Way to Cook Zucchini Noodles
Congrats! You've successfully made zoodles in a spiralizer. Now, onto the important question: how do you actually cook them? Unlike pasta, you fortunately don't need to wait around for a pot of water to boil. Instead, you treat the veggie "noodles" as vegetables you'd normally sauté on the stovetop.
The best way to cook a batch of zoodles is to heat one or two tablespoons of oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the noodles with a generous pinch of salt and a little pepper. After about five minutes, the zoodles will be slightly softened but not mushy, which is what you're after. They'll be similar to the al dente texture of traditional pasta.
And that's it! You can turn off the heat and turn your zucchini noodles into a full meal catered to your preference. You could add homemade bolognese sauce, basil pesto and parmesan cheese, lemon butter shrimp and red pepper flakes, or even more of your favorite satueed veggies to the mix. After trying out this healthy alternative to carb-heavy pasta a few times, you might convince yourself you like it almost as much as the real thing.
Ready to get cooking? Here are some more zucchini noodle recipes to get you started.
Heather Dubrow's Mansion Will Knock Your Manolos Off
On Bravo's Real Housewives of Orange County, viewers are gifted with a front-row view to Heather Dubrow's sophisticated and often enviable lifestyle. We have known her for years as an actress, a mom of four, and the wife to plastic surgeon Dr. Terry Dubrow. More recently, though, we have gotten to know her as a California mansion designer extraordinaire. Avid viewers of the show live for the little glimpses of her decadent new digs now that her vision is fully complete.
Heather's shared plenty of sly shots of the over-the-top and exceptionally beautiful interiors on Instagram, though there's yet to be a big reveal. Until then, these social snaps prove that every detail from her aired-in olive tree to the jaw-dropping master bath is going to wow us beyond belief. So grab a glass of Champagne and enjoy this inside look at the Dubrow abode, and we promise, it does not disappoint.
15 Pumpkin Recipes That'll Make Any Crisp Fall Day So Much Better
You know it's true: as soon as the Summer temperatures back off and cooler weather hits, you start dreaming about pumpkin everything. And who can blame you? This comforting veggie should appear under the dictionary definition of Fall.
To help you celebrate the beginning of the chilly season, we've rounded up 15 creative pumpkin versions of some of your favorite Latin dishes. From sweets like churros to mains like enchiladas, there are no ubiquitous pumpkin spice latte recipes here.
28 Times Kids Dropped Major Truth Bombs
Everybody knows that kids say the darnedest things, but some of those darn things can be harsh. It's cute and funny until you've experienced the "joy" of an observant kid making an innocent observation that hits like a major truth bomb. Whether it's about your postbaby tummy or a stranger's ear hair, it's hard to know whether to laugh or cry at these zingers. We asked our POPSUGAR Moms readers on Facebook to share stories about when their little ones unintentionally told the harsh truth, and these 28 examples are proof that the truth can hurt sometimes!
- "My daughter told me that I was pretty. I said 'Thank you, darling,' and then she said, 'But you know Mom, you would be even more pretty if you wore a little bit of makeup - you know a bit of blush and some lipstick.' Thanks kiddo!" - Laura Kinsella
- "To a woman at a restaurant: 'Mommy that girl looks like a hippopotamus with a baby in her belly!' My 3-year-old loves hippos and babies..." - Bori Soo D
- "I was explaining to my daughter the importance of education, and she says to me, 'Don't worry Mom, I'm not gonna end up like you.'" - Anne Talbert Gower
- "I stepped out of the shower and my daughter says, 'Oh Mommy, I love your stripes. You look like a zebra!'" - Sierra Buchanan
- "My daughter said to my hubby one day as we were about to go out for the day, 'Did you get dressed like that in your sleep daddy?'" - Hannah Thomas
- "When I was reading with kids in my 6-year-old's class, one little girl told me I had the same hands as her grandma." - Sue Kierstead Stapleton
- "My friend was going for a night out and she asked her daughter if she looked nice. Her daughter replied, 'Yes, from behind.'" - Anne Valhalla Wicks
- "I had just finished explaining to my 4-year-old why my pregnant belly was growing and that it would continue to grow until her brother was born. I asked her if she understood and she said, 'Yeah but why is your bottom so big?'" - Mandy Cogburn Wilson
- "My daughter was in the bathroom with her aunt getting ready. She asked what dry shampoo was for. Her aunt replied, 'It helps when your hair is greasy and you don't have time to wash it.' My observant child mentioned, 'That would work great on your face too, eh?'" - Jessica Graham
- "[My daughter's dad] told her to take her plate to the sink and she said, 'Why Dad? You never do.' But with zero attitude and I silently cheered in the silence." - Leah Hanson
- "You're a better mom when you do yoga." - Ashley Elizabeth
- "Just last night, 'Mommy, why do you have fat legs?'" - Ashley Bogan
- "Mom, when I get big like you can I also have a jelly belly?" - Desiree Rowe
- "You would be prettier if you didn't wear glasses. And were younger." - Sandie Wojno Marchese
- "Who drew that line so hard between your eyes?" - Sara Williams
- "'Mom, you're like a cow.' Because I produce milk." - Amanda Aitken
- "You're not as fat as grandma says you are." - Kindra Pigott Franzen
- "My 3-year-old told me I needed to get the 'grass' out of my nose. He meant my nose hair." - Erin Hicks
- "My husband told our son not to give the dog cheese because it would make him fat. Our son (6 years old at the time) said, 'Like Mommy?'" - Sharon Bright Copley
- "When I got my haircut, one of my sons said, 'You look like someone.' The other one said, 'Yeah off of The Walking Dead.'" - Catherine Edwards
- "My youngest of three pointed at my breast when I was naked in the bathroom and said, 'I don't hope my breast looks like that, when I grow up.'" - Sille Sigsgaard Clausen
- "My 4-year-old daughter looks at me while using the restroom one day and says, 'Mommy, how do you fit your fat butt on that little toilet seat?'" - Rhianna Heninger
- "I did my hair and makeup to go out a few weeks ago, and my boys looked at me and asked me why I looked weird!" - Becky Franklin
- "'Mommy your tummy is great, its wobbly like jelly!' Three years after I had given birth to him." - Laura-Sian Jennings
- "My toddler was watching me clean up for bed (brush my teeth, wipe makeup off, and a quick face mask). When all was done, he looks at me and says, 'All your pretty is gone!'" - Roxanne Hanson
- "This morning my 8-year-old said to me in the car, 'Mom you have such lovely hair, you remind me of a porcupine. It's all light at the ends and dark at the roots.' Obviously it's time to go to the hairdresser again!" - Lani van Vuuren
- "My 8-year-old daughter was laying with her head on my stomach while we were reading a book and she said 'Mommy I'm so glad your tummy is so big and squishy because it's really comfortable!'" - Alli Welch
- "I had just given birth and my 4-year-old asked me if I still had a baby in my belly. And I said no to which she replied, 'Then why are you still fat?'" - Vivian Magana
You've Got to See the Hysterical Costume President Obama Awarded "Top Prize" in 2015
In late September 2015, Pope Francis was welcomed to the United States by former President Obama and thousands of citizens who lined up to meet him in various cities . . . including a pint-size doppelgänger who dressed in full papal garb. Pope Francis cracked up at the sweet little tot, and though Obama wasn't around for that little bit of hilarity, he got to meet his very own tiny pope at the White House's Halloween event that year - and his reaction was very much the same.
The Obamas were handing out candy to adorable trick-or-treaters at their event when the president spotted the small pope - riding in his "popemobile," complete with security detail - and immediately lost it. The White House posted a video to Twitter of the encounter, in which you can hear President Obama awarding the little babe "top prize." Though it's likely this kiddo has no concept of the honor bestowed upon him just yet, it'll be a pretty great story for him to tell when he's older.
Watch the baby get awarded first place in the video below, and scroll through for hysterical photos of the president doubled over in laughter.
Top prize goes to Lil' Pope. #HappyHalloween https://t.co/WJo1nYUWup
- The White House (@WhiteHouse) October 30, 2015
30 Friends Quotes You're Still Using Every Week
Friends has been off the air for over a decade now (how old does that make you feel?), but that hasn't stopped me and the rest of the world from keeping the show alive every day thanks to the endless array of quips and one-liners the sitcom gave us over the course of 10 seasons. Sure, we all know the most memorable lines like, "Could I be wearing any more clothes?" and "We were on a break!", but there are so many more quotes that are ripe for everyday use, we almost couldn't count 'em all. Almost.
This Post Shows That No Matter How Hard You Try, Being a Mom Can Be Really F*cking Hard Sometimes
There's no question about it: motherhood is hard. You can try to have the absolute perfect day, but sometimes your plans are foiled by the tiny humans running around your household. Mom of two Toni Hammer had one of those days recently and explained exactly why motherhood doesn't ever seem to get easier in a Facebook post:
I was having such a good day until 3:37 p.m. That's when my daughter and I had to leave to get her brother from preschool. Before then I had a wonderful morning with her before sending her off to school. Then I did three loads of laundry, organized the bathroom closet, made cloud bread, made a chocolate treat, made a roast for dinner. I couldn't wait for my husband to come home to a clean house, yummy dinner, and happy children. Except that's not what he came home, too. Because ever since my daughter started school she's a back talking, breakdown having, crying from 4 to 7 p.m. stranger.
Although Hammer has been told by numerous other parents that starting full-day school is a big transition period in kids' lives, her patience has been wearing thin lately. "The transition to all day kindergarten is hard. She just needs to adjust. I just need to be patient. But I don't have patience. It's gone. It's shot."
What did the momma do? She had a moment of weakness and cried in her room while her husband and kids ate the dinner she slaved over all afternoon. She described the reason she hit her breaking point: "Every time I think I have a handle on it, everything changes and our world is flipped upside down and then I'm feeling overwhelmed and out of my depth all over again. And tonight I just couldn't take it."
It's true, the day certainly got the best of her, but she recognizes tomorrow is a new opportunity. "Tomorrow I'll try again. I'll work hard to listen to my kids, to meet them where they're at, to be patient and calm. I'll try again to keep the house clean, to have a home cooked meal and happy children waiting for my husband at the end of the day. But tonight I'm going to hide and cry. Because motherhood is hard."
Recharge and Relax: Our Favorite Healthy Hotels and Resorts
Vacations are meant for relaxing, but sitting around all day can get boring pretty quickly. Whether it's a morning yoga practice on the beach, a spectacular hike, or biking through wine country, choosing a fitness-minded hotel or resort definitely has its perks. Planning your own vacation? Consider one of these fit destinations.
Related: Healthy Travel Guide
Warning: This Workout Will Wake Up Muscles You Didn't Know Existed
If you love a challenge and are always looking for new ways to work out, you're going to be a huge fan of AMRAP workouts. AMRAPs, short for "as many reps as possible," are timed workouts where you race against the clock to get in as many reps of a set of exercises as possible.
"When doing AMRAPs, you get to go at your own pace and really focus on technique, which allows more control over every movement," said Austin Lopez, CSCS and founder of Ausome Fit. "Because of this, you're often doing better work than you might in a high-intensity workout, where form is often sacrificed for speed." But, as you do build up your technique and form, you can challenge yourself to increase the total number of reps you complete in each round and will find yourself totally out of breath as you would during any intense HIIT session.
Ready to give it a go? Lopez grouped these moves together - jump squats, push-ups, and burpees - because they work the entire body, which helps you maximize every second spent in the workout.
The Workout
Perform each move for 30 seconds, completing as many reps as possible. After completing the third and final move in the circuit, rest for 45 seconds before beginning again. Run through the circuit a total of four times.
The 7 Exercises Everyone Should Know
As a fitness editor, I have done my fair share of workouts. Videos, classes, personal training - you name it, I've probably done it. In all of the workouts I have done, the same seven exercises appear again and again, and for good reason. Not only do these moves tend to form the foundation of more challenging variations, but they are also incredibly functional and work major muscle groups of the body.
If you're new to fitness or are just looking for a refresher, it's a good idea to get acquainted with the following exercises. Doing so will help give you the foundation to excel at more complicated moves, while also providing you the health benefits from focusing on exercises that are truly useful in everyday life. Best of all? You won't need a single piece of equipment to do a single one.
KitchenAid Has a New All-Black Stand Mixer That Matches Your Soul
KitchenAid is known for its beautiful stand mixers, but its new all-black mixer has to be the most gorgeous one yet. The Artisan Black Tie 5-Quart Stand Mixer ($1,000) is the all-black "outfit" you'll wish your kitchen could show off. The limited-edition mixer is both shiny and matte thanks to a combination of cast zinc, satin, and black chrome. It's safe to say it matches perfectly with every type of kitchen decor, and it's so aesthetically pleasing we'd want to leave it on the counter instead of storing it in a cabinet. If you feel like you need this in your life stat, you'll have to act fast: KitchenAid is only producing 500 of these bad boys in the US. But KitchenAid says this is its first - not only - limited-edition stand mixer, so here's hoping the colors that follow are just as cool. Read on to get an even closer look at the stunning kitchen tool that has people talking. Spoiler alert: it looks even more amazing pictured with bright-red pasta.
32 Pictures of Michelle Obama Looking as Down to Earth as Ever
We've seen thousands of images of Michelle Obama these past eight years, and her relatability runs through all of them. Whether she's hanging out with kids or addressing thousands of people, the first lady always appears down to earth. It's difficult to find a photo of Michelle where she doesn't seem truly happy to be there.
When Michelle appears on popular talk shows, she seems like every other mom sharing anecdotes about her kids . . . the only difference being that she has the title of first lady. Even with the official title, it seems like if you ran into Michelle on the street, she would treat you like an old friend.
Michelle also cares about making a difference in regular people's lives. Since her husband took office in 2008, the first lady has launched more than one campaign to improve the lives of America's next generation. But she doesn't stop at helping American children. Her initiative Let Girls Learn empowers young women from Liberia to America to stay in school and encourages education.
Dedicated to kids' health, Michelle also introduced her now-famous campaign for more physical activity in schools, Let's Move. She regularly visits schools across the country and participates in gym classes to inspire more exercise . . . and sometimes she even brings special guests.
Like President Obama, Michelle has proven she's as relatable as a first lady can be. Here are 32 photos of Michelle illustrating how you can look up to her, even as she stays on your level.
Boy Who Saved His Friend's Life Proves Everyone Should Know the Heimlich
Jack Mongeau, an 11-year-old boy, just saved his best friend's life thanks to a vital skill his father, Steve, a licensed nurse's aide, recently taught him: the Heimlich maneuver. When Jack's friend Bella Moran started choking on a lollipop, the girl signaled to her friend that she needed help by putting her hands around her throat. Jack immediately sprung into action performing the Heimlich, and on the fourth or fifth push, the lollipop dislodged from Bella's throat.
The boy won't call himself a hero, and his dad says his son is "an 11-year-old who just jumped in when he had to," but Bella's father James says he's very grateful and thankful to Jack for saving his daughter's life and to Steve, for teaching his son such an important skill. Although this incident ended on a positive note, had Jack not known the Heimlich, things could have ended differently for Bella - an important reminder to all parents to teach their kids (and themselves) vital safety skills in case of emergency.
Why You Must Clean Your Earbuds ASAP - and How
You probably use your earbuds all day - during your commute to work, work itself, and your commute home. As many times as you pull them in and out of your bag, you probably don't think often enough about keeping them clean. Unsurprisingly, earbuds can transmit bacteria from person to person if they're shared, and in some cases can even cause ear infections. Clearly they need to be kept clean, but what's the best way?
Obviously you can't just toss your earbuds in the dishwasher to clean them. While doing some research, I came across a few suggestions of how to properly clean earbuds. Here's how:
- Use a gentle cleaner, like soap and warm water. No need to go too heavy-duty here; try a mix of dishwashing detergent and water.
- Use a gentle cloth with just a small amount of the soap mixture. Too much soap could leave a residue on your earbuds, and too much water, well that goes without saying.
- If there's a lot of dirt or dust in the metal part of your earbuds, try brushing them with a dry toothbrush to dislodge the dust.
- Some earbuds, like Apple's In-Ear Headphones, come with removable (and replaceable) silicone covers, so try removing them and cleaning those separately.
- Never submerge them in water. You'll damage the wiring. Ditto for running them under the faucet, even for just a second.
- Remember to only clean your earbuds when they're detached from your iPod or other device!
In Yom Kippur Post, Mark Zuckerberg Seeks Forgiveness For Letting Facebook Divide the Country
Amid a series of controversies that has plagued Facebook over the past few weeks, CEO Mark Zuckerberg is asking for one thing: forgiveness. The company's latest foibles include finding 3,000 ads that were bought by a Russian company (and subsequently having to hand them over to Congress) and a ProPublica investigation that found that advertisers were able to target people who were interested in terms such as "Jew hater." Though Zuckerberg has laid out plans to remedy these two issues, in a short message on Sept. 30, the day of Yom Kippur, he wrote, "For the ways my work was used to divide people rather than bring us together, I ask forgiveness and I will work to do better."
Yom Kippur is the holiest day in Judaism and is usually spent repenting for any mistakes made during the year, so it makes sense that Zuckerberg chose to post a statement on that day about what Facebook's been embroiled in the past few weeks. The poignant statement drew more than 175,000 reactions, 7,000 shares, and 11,000 comments and ended with, "May we all be better in the year ahead, and may you all be inscribed in the book of life." You can read it all for yourself ahead.
Tonight concludes Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year for Jews when we reflect on the past year and ask forgiveness...
Posted by Mark Zuckerberg on Saturday, September 30, 2017
On Oct. 2, Facebook is set to hand over the 3,000 ads to Congress. The company also announced that it will hire "1,000 additional people to the internal team that reviews and removes Facebook ads," according to Recode. Despite both of these new commitments, Facebook was once again under fire on Oct. 2 for promoting fake news about the Las Vegas mass shooting on the platform.
43 "Punny" Halloween Costumes That Won't Break the Bank
Blink and before you know it, Halloween will be here, so get to planning those costumes and parties ASAP. The key is a killer costume that doesn't take too much effort or money to put together, which is why we always love "punny" outfits that play on some of our favorite phrases. We've gathered some of the best ideas, from "Hairy" Potter to a "French" kiss and everything in between. Check out our picks (plus a hilarious celebrity version), and rest assured knowing you've got "best costume" in the bag.
- Additional reporting by Macy Williams
3 Natural DIY Face Masks That Desi Girls Swear by For Glowing Skin
Although these ingredients may seem like items from a desi Grandma's recipe book, nothing gives you the glow like natural remedies from the comfort of your kitchen. I have been using them for years, and I cannot thank enough the generations of desi women before me who have been creative enough to find solutions to their skin problems within their kitchens. Whatever your skin concerns, these DIY face masks are the simplest way to getting clearer, more radiant skin.
Take a look at some of my favorite picks. You might find something that really works for you.
Gram Flour, Turmeric, and Milk Mask
Even though you might see several versions of this one, I find that the most basic version has been the most effective for a lot of people. This mask has to be your go-to for that instant glow. It works well to deep cleanse the skin and to remove the dead skin off of your face. Although this mask is excellent for dry to normal skin, you can replace the milk with curd for oily skin.
Simply take two tablespoons of gram flour and add half a teaspoon of turmeric powder to the same. Add the required amount of milk to make it into a paste. Apply the mask onto a clean face, and leave it on until it dries out. Wash it off with cold water to get bright, radiant skin.
Tomato Paste Mask
Tomato works beautifully to soak up the extra oil on the skin, and it is superrich in antioxidants, as well. To DIY, take a ripe tomato, and make a fine paste out of it in your blender. Make sure the paste is thick enough to be applied onto your face. Clean your face with warm water to open up the pores, and leave the mask on for about 15 to 20 minutes. Wash off the mask with cold water to seal the pores. Yay for gorgeous, glowing skin!
Egg and Honey Face Pack
This one is perfect for those Winter mornings when your skin feels dry and patchy. Simply whip up a mixture of one egg yolk and a teaspoon of honey, and apply it to a clean face. Leave it on for about 15 minutes before washing it off. Did you know eggs can be used in several ways to get clear skin?
So, there you go. Try out these packs over a period of time to see proper results. Wishing you all a healthy and glowing skin!
The Ultimate Guide to Decorating With Mason Jars This Halloween
What can't mason jars do? Mason jars make great gifts, are perfect lunch containers, and can be transformed to make perfect seasonal decor.
Halloween offers a great opportunity to use mason jars in brand new ways. They're the perfect base for a number of Halloween DIY projects, including tabletop pieces and spooky party decor. There's no end to the creativity that can be employed when decorating with mason jars this October. Here is our list of 20 top ideas for spooky and spectacular decorating!
The 21 Creepiest Haunted Houses in America
If you're easily spooked, stop reading; there's still time to save yourself! But if you're a fan of haunted horrors, gruesome ghouls, and murderous mysteries, you've come to the right place. Halloween is just around the corner, which means it's time to delve into the creepiest of the creepy - haunted houses.
Though only a few centuries old, America has amassed an impressive number of eerie residences, each deemed haunted due to paranormal activity or a frightful past. From spooky hotels to murder mansions, these ghostly dwellings span from coast to coast. Read on to see the list of America's creepiest haunted houses . . . if you dare.
Why You Might Want to Reconsider Dressing Up as a Día de los Muertos Skeleton This Halloween
Pan de muertos, la catrina, flor de cempasúchil, traditional colors, dishes, and altares or altars: all of these play an important role in what many know as Day of the Dead, but what my culture and family refer to as Día de los Muertos.
"Hija, preparemos el altar" or "Honey, let's arrange the altar" are words my mother would say days before Nov. 1. Usually the preparation begins on Oct. 31, the same day Halloween is celebrated in the United States, and while the holidays almost overlap in date, it's important to understand they are different.
I was born and raised in California, but my heart and culture come from Mexico. Like many other Latinos or Mexican-Americans, dates such as Day of the Dead are important and celebrated in my family. So what exactly is behind this day? Let me break it down.
Día de los Muertos is celebrated in many Latin American countries but emphasized in the Mexican states of Michoacán, Jalisco, and Oaxaca. Traditionally, this festivity traces back to the Aztecs and was at one point a month-long commemoration. Have you ever heard of Día de los Angelitos or All Saints' Day? This plays part in what Day of the Dead celebrates today.
It all begins with the altares or the altars. Being from Jalisco, it's tradition for my family to begin preparing the altar of the person we are commemorating three days prior to the actual holiday on Oct. 31. Together, we begin gathering ofrendas or offerings that remind us of the person who has passed. This can be anything from food to drinks, clothing, music, photos, colors, and religious images or representations. Altars are decorated and placed in either the person's home or a tomb in the cemetery. Papel picado (literally punched or perforated paper) is seen on the altars usually with cutouts of skulls and skeletons.
Once you've prepared the altar, you can welcome the souls of those who passed. Children are celebrated on Nov. 1. The next day is dedicated to the adults, and the festivities are similar on both dates. Imagine a cemetery filled with people, music, colorful decorations, food, and lit candles.
While in the US, many paint their faces on Halloween as skeletons to mirror death, the same is done in Mexico on Día de los Muertos but with a different essence. La catrina, which translates to "the lady in the hat," is a female skeleton and is probably the most recognized symbol of the holiday. She wears an elegant bright-colored dress, which many women wear as a way to mock death. In comparison to how a skeleton is portrayed on Halloween in the states, there is nothing scary about la catrina. In fact, she represents the upper-class outfit of the Europeans.
The same goes for the cemetery. While in the US, the cemetery is home to scary stories and haunted houses, the cemetery in many Latin American countries is home to everything just the opposite. Even the word skeleton has a different meaning. Calaveras refer to funny rhymes on that day. For example: "Comadre pelona, me alegro de verte. No andemos con chanzas, que yo soy la muerte". Translation: "Bald lady, I'm glad to see you. Let's not joke around, I am death."
The holiday, which at one point only existed in Mexico, has now migrated to other countries including the US. You don't have to be in Mexico to celebrate, but you do need to know the meaning behind the celebration to appreciate its culture and know that it's a traditional event not related at all to Halloween. The beauty behind Día de los Muertos is its symbolism. As a family and with your community, you celebrate death.
Magical Disney Gender Reveals You'll Want to Steal
If you're a Disney-lover expecting a little Mickey or Minnie soon and are choosing to find out and share your baby's gender, what better way to announce the news than with a Disney-themed reveal? From the use of Disney swag to popping balloons full of pink or blue confetti inside one of the parks, all you need is a little hint of that Disney magic to make your gender reveal that much more special.
Whether they actually happened at Disney or took place at a themed party back home, these magical reveals will give you serious inspiration.
8 Dunkin' Donuts Copycat Recipes That Taste Just Like the Real Deal
If a trip to the drive through sounds like too much to handle, then consider one of these doughnut, drink, and coffee cake recipes that live up to their famous DD counterparts. Whether you're in the mood for chocolate, honey glazed, or red velvet, we've got you covered in the flavor department.
What ALL 40 Shades of Rihanna's Fenty Beauty Foundation Really Look Like
Of all the praise that has come Rihanna's way for Fenty Beauty, the most significant has been about how inclusive her collection is. Launching with a whopping 40 shades of foundation from the get-go, Rihanna impressed everyone with her dedication to celebrating diverse beauty and making sure everyone feels represented.
As Rihanna herself said at her press preview in NYC, "That was really important, for me, for every product. I kept saying, 'There needs to be something for a dark-skinned girl, there needs to be something for a pale girl, there needs to be something for everyone in between.'" And by countless beauty bloggers' first impressions, she did not disappoint.
Since the collection launched Sept. 8, YouTube and Instagram have flooded with reviews, especially of the matte, full-coverage Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Foundation ($34). With so many options, it can be overwhelming to figure out exactly which shade will match you. It's best to go in stores to really figure that out, but it helps to see references (for the record, Rihanna is shade 340!). That's why we rounded up what every single shade in Fenty Beauty's foundation collection looks like on men and women in real life. Behold the beauty of just how gorgeously diverse Rihanna's collection really is, ahead.
16 Reasons Beauty Girls Are Obsessed With Fall
Summer is superb, Spring is beautiful, and Winter is festive, but beauty girls know better than anyone that Fall is straight up magical. When the leaves begin to change, most people start gearing up for horror movies and Halloween, but makeup addicts head straight for Sephora. From vampy lip colors to comforting candles, reasons the beauty-obsessed count Fall as their favorite season abound!
So grab a pumpkin spice latte and check out our list of reasons Autumn is the best season for beauty - after reading, you won't be able to deny your excitement for the next few months.
18 Celebrity Updos That Are Impressive From Every Angle
It's definitely a cinematic moment when someone enters the room looking fierce and then turns their head ever so slightly to reveal what's going on with their hair from behind. There's just something about a statement updo that commands attention.
Celebrities are especially good at pulling this off, and we urge you to take your cue from them as we enter the holiday party season.
Like celebs on the red carpet, your updos will forever be memorialized across social media this season. These looks will make you feel like the magnificent star you are while sipping Champagne and mingling with your friends!
I Tried the 5 Best Fenty Beauty Products For Fair Skin - They Get an A+ From Me
When Rihanna released her Fenty Beauty line, I wasted no time in testing it out. I was excited to hear how inclusive the collection is for all skin tones, and that all the products are cruelty free. So, how would these goodies appear on my very fair complexion? Spoiler alert: they look damn good.
I was pleasantly surprised by how versatile and wearable the products are. I tried everything from the Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation to the Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer - and plenty of highlighters too, of course. If you have a pale skin tone too, let me be your guide to the very best Fenty Beauty products for your face. I tried most of the line over the course of a couple days, so I can truly attest to what is best. Check out how it all looks!
This Little Girl in a Pantsuit Met Hillary Clinton, and Yes, You Will Cry
Look who wore her pant suit to meet @HillaryClinton !! #WhatHappened http://pic.twitter.com/0Rd3ZJ8H8p
- GregHale1 (@GregHale1) September 27, 2017
Hillary Clinton has spent the last couple weeks flying across the country as part of a massive multicity book tour for her memoir, "What Happened," as well as the picture book version of her 2006 book "It Takes A Village." As one might expect, the former first lady and presidential candidate has made headlines more than a few times as a result of interesting tidbits she's share at these events - but on Sept. 27, the spotlight very much belonged to someone else: an adorable girl named Grace.
Grace wore her very own tiny pantsuit to a Brooklyn event centered on the children's book, and when it was her turn to get the book signed by Clinton her father, Greg Hale, snapped a photo. After Hale shared the photo on social media it went viral - and how could it not? It's a sight that gives hope in a situation that has felt so bleak for so long - plus, Grace could not possibly be more adorable. Clinton, for her part, shared the photo as well, with a quick caption that read "Great to be back in Brooklyn sharing #ItTakesAVillage with readers of all ages!"
Great to be back in Brooklyn sharing #ItTakesAVillage with readers of all ages! https://t.co/ytalprhN5p
- Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) September 28, 2017
But if Grace's adorable-ness hasn't caused you to tear up just yet, you've got one more shot: another photo was taken of her just outside the event, and it shows that the spirit of being with her is still alive and well in even the youngest Americans.
Took this photo of Grace outside and told her you would love to see her! ❤️ http://pic.twitter.com/JYjikIAisE
- Jennifer McCann (@jen4hillary) September 28, 2017
No Matter How Hard You Try, You Won't Be Able to Look Away From Nick Lachey's '80s Number on DWTS
Nick Lachey took guilty pleasure night to a whole new level on Dancing With the Stars. On Monday, the singer looked like he stepped straight out of a cheesy '80s workout video and onto the ballroom floor as he danced to "Jump (For My Love)" by The Pointer Sisters. While Peta Murgatroyd looked like a total bombshell in her tiny unitard, we can't get over how overly excited Lachey looks as he moves across the floor. Talk about jumping for joy! And to top it all off, he even had the support of his 98 Degrees bandmates in the audience.
DWTS: Frankie Muniz Goes Full Justin Timberlake During His *NSYNC Performance
Dancing With the Stars was full of guilty pleasures on Monday night. While some of the contestants went back to the '80s for their performances, Frankie Muniz went back to the early 2000s to fulfill his lifelong dream of being in a boy band. Not only did he dance to *NSYNC's "It's Gonna Be Me" for his samba number, but he and partner Witney Carson even dressed the part by going full Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears circa 2001 American Music Awards. Seeing as the the band just celebrated their 22nd anniversary, this was definitely the perfect throwback.
40+ DIY Costumes Every College Student Can Pull Off
If you're an undergrad, you know how huge Halloween is every year. It's never too early to start planning for those campus parties! We've come up with a range of awesome costumes that are perfect for any college student, and the best part is they're all DIY. So in the spirit of Halloween, light your pumpkin spice candle, turn on Hocus Pocus, and get crafting!
J.K. Rowling Dropped a Clue About Dumbledore's Death Way Sooner Than You Thought
If you consider yourself a Harry Potter expert, you're about to kick yourself and wonder why you never noticed this key element in the books before. Reddit user upyourjuicebox was reading Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and noticed a detail that suggests J.K. Rowling foreshadowed Dumbledore's death in the third book.
The referenced scene occurs at Hogwarts over Christmas; the sometimes-prophetic Professor Trelawney refuses to sit down at the dinner table because "when 13 people dine together the first to rise will die." Since Ron had his pet rat, Scabbers (who is also an animagus and can turn into the human Peter Pettigrew), in his pocket for most of the book, we can assume that he did during dinner as well. So, when Dumbledore stands to offer Trelawney a seat, he's actually the first person to stand! More evidence that this fan theory is true: both Mad Eye Moody and Sirius Black got up from tables where 13 people sat. Gasp! You can see the theory from the Reddit user below.
This fan's idea seems to coincide with Rowling's favorite fan theory: Dumbledore as an embodiment of death. Whether this theory is true, we're convinced to never stand up from a table of 13.
15 Spooky Picks For the Girl Who Loves Halloween - All From ModCloth
If you love everything Halloween related, you're in luck: we found festive and cute picks that are perfect for this holiday. Instead of wearing the same old costume you likely recycle every year, try something new! We looked at ModCloth because the retailer tends to have some fun holiday gear. From theme dresses that can inspire your costume to funky socks, or glow-in-the-dark earrings, the store has a wide variety of fun choices. So, if you're feeling like you want to look spirited this month, shop some of these versatile choices. Check out our favorites.
Run For Your Lives, Virgins, Because Disney Channel Is Remaking Hocus Pocus
In "Things We Don't Want, Don't Need, and Didn't Ask For" news, Deadline reports that the Disney Channel is rebooting Hocus Pocus as a TV movie. Yes, really.
The remake will be "a reimagining" of the beloved 1993 Halloween film starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, which has became a cult classic over the years. It's reportedly in the early stages of development, with The Royals's Scarlett Lacey handling the script, while David Kirschner - a producer on the original film - will serve as executive producer. Kenny Ortega directed the original, and although he's gone on to helm Disney Channel's biggest franchises (High School Musical and Descendants), he's currently not involved. The core cast of the first film is also out, since Disney is looking to revamp the story with an entirely new set of actors (womp, womp).
Anyone who is not a fan of the recent trend of reboots and revivals will no doubt be annoyed by the news, but talk of creating a new iteration of Hocus Pocus has actually been floating around for years. In fact, one of the film's writers, Mick Garris, hinted to Forbes earlier this week that a TV project was in the works. "There have been rumors of a Hocus Pocus sequel for the last 10 years that will not die," he said. "I have heard they are developing the script, I haven't been involved in it but I think there will be a sequel it might be for Disney Channel or Freeform or ABC. I think it will be for television but I hear that it is moving ahead."
Despite that, a sequel definitely does not have the seal of approval from the only person who truly matters: Winifred Sanderson. "After all these years and all the fan demand, I do believe I can stand and firmly say an unequivocal no," Midler, who played the iconic witch, told fans during a Facebook chat in 2015. Luckily for any Hocus Pocus purists out there who agree with her, you'll be able to watch a marathon of the flawless original on Freeform in October.
Miley Cyrus and Adam Sandler Perform a Chilling and Beautiful Tribute to Las Vegas Shooting Victims
Miley Cyrus and Adam Sandler came together on The Tonight Show on Monday to pay tribute to the victims of the horrific mass shooting in Las Vegas on Sunday. Host Jimmy Fallon told the audience, "This morning, we woke up to the news of another senseless shooting. This time in Las Vegas. In the face of tragedies and acts of terror, we need to remember that good still exists in this world. We're here to entertain you tonight, and that's what we're going to do." The two then sang a beautiful rendition of Dido's "No Freedom," and Cyrus closed the show with her hit "The Climb."
Before the show, Cyrus spoke out on social media about the shooting that killed 59 and injured more than 400 others, saying, "In honor of the lives lost, injured and affected by the tragic shooting in Vegas, @fallontonight & I dedicated this show to not only mourning this horrific event but using this platform to encourage unity, peace & hopefulness! So we started this week off with a song I haven't performed in years...#TheClimb. These words mean more now to me than ever ... 'Keep The Faith' ..... Sending love to ALL! Enjoy the show tonight & #MileyWeek .... hope we can make you smile even thru so much pain."
18 Crazy-Easy Costumes For Halloween-Loving Moms
You plan your kids' costumes weeks in advance (right?), but your own Halloween ensemble is, at best, an afterthought. If you're a mama who likes dressing up but doesn't have time to plan an elaborate costume, you're in luck. Halloween may be right around the corner, but it's not too late (far from it). We have 18 beyond-simple ideas that will get you in the trick-or-treating spirit quickly, inexpensively, and painlessly.
What Being Latino Means to Me: It's Like We're the Same, But Different, But Still the Same
Latino |ləˈtēnō| chiefly North American noun (plural Latinos) (in North America)
A person of Latin American origin or descent, especially a man or boy.
Hispanic |hiˈspanik| adjective
Relating to Spanish-speaking countries, especially those of Latin America. Relating to Spanish-speaking people or their culture, especially in the US.
noun
A Spanish-speaking person living in the US, especially one of Latin American descent.
- New Oxford American Dictionary
It's an interesting thing to be asked what is one's proudest moment as a Latino. The caveat is deciphering what exactly it means to be a Latino. Does the term refer to everyone who has a background coming from Spain? Or does the word refer to those of us who stem from the Southern countries of America? The waters get a little murky. A Colombian, as I am, is both Hispanic and Latino, but my Brazilian neighbor would only be Latino. My friend from Spain would be Hispanic, but not Latino. Perhaps all Hispanics are Latinos, but not vice versa?
As if that wasn't enough, once we have reached the decision of whether we are Hispanic, Latino, or both, we have to decide which flavor of Latino we are. Being a Latino/Hispanic from, say, Cuba is not the same as being a Latino from Argentina . . . not even close. It's two completely different worlds. The only thing these two Latinos really have in common are a shared language and the fact that they can trace their country's history to an overzealous Habsburg with an underbite. The African percussion in Caribbean music has very little to do with the strings of an Argentine tango, and yet here we are.
Latinos are one, but we are not homogeneous. If you're a Latino in California, people might assume you jumped over a river to get into the United States. If you're a Latino in Florida, they might assume you washed up on the beach like DiCaprio in the beginning of Inception. It's like we're the same, but different, but still the same.
Now, this leads me to another question: is POPSUGAR asking me what my proudest moment was as a Latino in general, or more specifically as a Colombian? This is also a sticky subject, since one Venezuelan may revere Simón Bolívar, while a Spaniard may hold him in less esteem, and yet they would both be Hispanics.
So for all intents and purposes, let's just say that you're asking me what my proudest moment was as someone born in the general area between the northern border of Mexico and Tierra del Fuego. I was born in Barranquilla, Colombia - mentioned in Johnny Cash's "I've Been Everywhere" . . . why? . . . no one knows - so my version of what being a Latino is and what being Hispanic is centers around salsa music, rum, deep-fried food, human rights violations, and beautiful women.
We tend to stick together, and we like to stick together.
Not many Americans are feverish to go to a festive Colombian restaurant or drink aguardiente. Unfortunately, when one mentions Colombia, the two images most people think of are (1) coffee and (2) Pablo Escobar. (Oh, and not to mention that atrocious misspelling of the country with a "u" where an "o" should be.) I have yet to see an arepa food truck parked outside the LACMA. Perhaps one day.
A lot of times, it is much easier to make a list of things we are not proud of as Latinos: the banana republics of the early 20th century, the atrocities that so many of the dictators who have ruled South America at one point or another have committed, the civil wars, the feudalism that still prevails, the machismo, the homophobia, the lack of education, the class divide, the lack of reliable WiFi . . . the list can go on and on and on, the same way that it can go on and on and on for every other culture around the world. But we have Desi Arnaz, so he kind of cancels everything else out.
We have some shining moments, as well. Guillermo González Camarena (Mexican) invented color television. Luis Miramontes, also Mexican, invented the contraceptive pill (blessed be the day). Domingo Liotta, from Argentina, invented the artificial heart (and gave it to my ex, apparently). Gabriel García Márquez won the Nobel Prize for Literature. Desi Arnaz revolutionized television. Alejandro González Iñárritu won back-to-back Best Director Oscars. Bolívar fought off the Spanish yoke and fought for freedom and democracy. We have Charo, Salma Hayek, Pitbull, Ricky Martin, Carolina Herrera, Carlos Slim, Jessica Alba, Robert Rodriguez, Jennifer Lopez, Rita Moreno, Sofía Vergara (hi, Mom!), Shakira, Daddy Yankee, Raquel Welch, Ricardo Montalban with his rich Corinthian leather, John Leguizamo, Andy Garcia . . . the list goes on and on of Latinos who have made an impact, both within the Latino community and abroad. And we should be proud of that.
We Latinos tend to find solidarity pretty much only when we're far from home. A Latino doesn't care if another person is Latino unless we're the only two Latinos in that place; then suddenly we're best friends. That's actually how I made most of my friends in a predominately white school.
"Hey, did I just hear you speaking Spanish? I'm from Venezuela."
"I'm from Colombia."
"'Kay, we're friends now. Lunch?"
We tend to stick together, and we like to stick together. We go to the Latin parties. We go a lo de uno, lo propio. We go with what we know. Since we surround ourselves with ourselves, we are inundated with the Latin-ness all day long. No matter where we are, one friend has a bottle of Ron Medellin at their house, another may have the flour to make arepas, another may have the queso criollo - we all have little bits and pieces from the motherland that we share with one another now and then. It keeps it present.
This is why it is kind of jarring, and exciting, when we see something of ours in a place where we wouldn't think it would belong. You have no idea how excited I get when I see a can of Manzana Postobón at a random 7-Eleven in Miami. It's silly, but for me, in my mind, there is no reason a Colombian soda should be found at a convenience store in the United States. It blows my mind; it's a very pleasant surprise. It's the little things like that that sometimes make me stop and think and go, "Oh, sh*t - I guess we're not just amongst ourselves . . . other people know about us, too!"
About four years ago, when I was still young and fresh and my skin had the youthful bounce of collagen, I went to Japan with my mother and some friends. A very good childhood friend of mine - who I guess would be considered an expat by this point 'cause he's still there - was also in Japan. So I gave him a call (see, back then people had to call people), and he joined us in Kyoto.
Well, what does one do when one is young, full of hope, and exploring an unfamiliar country such as Japan with an old friend? Drink. We drink. Now, Kyoto is a wonderful, beautiful place. It has labyrinthine alleys and streets, and each little opening contains a restaurant or a bar or something wonderful that I couldn't tell you what it was because I couldn't read the signage. So, as my friend and I were walking up and down this little downtown area, we get tired of trying to decide which bar to go into and literally just stopped and walked into the first door we had on our right, without pause. We walked up these narrow stone steps, and what I saw once I walked in I will never, ever forget.
It was a salsa bar. In Kyoto. Like, a real salsa bar. "Chan Chan" was playing on the speakers; they were drinking Havana Club rum; instead of peanuts, they had plantain chips; there were pictures of Celia and Tito on the wall; and there were people dancing. Never in my life would I have thought that I would get to see a Japanese couple dance salsa better than I do.
The barkeep turned out to be the owner, and he was very proud of his bar. He was even more proud to show me a picture of him and Celia Cruz, signed by her. He asked where I was from; I said Barranquilla. He stopped for a moment, then his eyes went wide. "Joe Arroyo! You have Joe Arroyo on your iPod? Plug it in!" And I did. I played Joe Arroyo, in Kyoto, because the bartender was a fan.
It may seem trifling and mundane, but that moment blew my mind. It's one thing to hear salsa or get any inkling of Latino culture when you're in the United States or France or Italy, or somewhere else in Western Europe - there's a lot of shared history, shared tongues. For me, it's like assumed that an Italian would know about salsa because we both speak a Romance language, you know? Like, we're cousins; you're stuck with us. But to be in Japan - a place where in my mind there was absolutely no connection between our culture and theirs, a place where the language has absolutely nothing to do with Spanish - and hear Celia Cruz playing at a bar was reaffirming.
It showed me that we really are a global influence. The Japanese aren't stuck with us the way the French would be stuck with us. Like it or not, if one speaks Spanish, one can kind of make their way sloppily around French. One cannot make their way around Japanese in such a way, and vice versa. These salsa bargoers in Kyoto were there, listening to our music, drinking our liquor, enjoying our culture because they chose to. Because they wanted to. Because they like it. I really felt proud to be Latino in that moment - the world outside our own cares for us. And that was really something to realize that after so many years. That was my proudest moment. We should all be proud.
Also, "Despacito".
This THC Powder Literally Turns Any Dish Into an Edible - Seriously
If you're someone who wants a dish that will give you a good high without having to make the classic brownies or deal with marijuana directly, there's a new option for you. Stillwater Ripple is a dissolvable THC that's completely colorless and odorless, so you can literally add it into any food and not taste it at all. It comes in two options, Ripple Pure 10, which contains 10 mg of purified THC distillate, and Ripple Balanced 5, which contains 5 mg THC and 5 mg CBD distillate.
What makes Ripple stand out from your standard cooking or baking with marijuana, other than the fact that it's straight-up THC and CBD, is that it is supposedly fast acting and long lasting, which means you won't have to wait the usual hour to two hours to feel the effects like you would with a traditional edible. According to Stillwater's product description, "Ripple water-soluble cannabinoids are absorbed into the bloodstream in three places: under the tongue, in the soft tissue of the digestive tract, and, finally, in the liver," which is what makes them so fast acting.
The Ripple powders are also premeasured into precise dosages so you know exactly how much you're adding each time. However, the catch is that you can only purchase this product in Colorado, where it is perfectly legal. Due to various marijuana laws in each state, it cannot be shipped or carried over state lines, so you'll have to purchase it and enjoy it on your next trip to Colorado.
9 Reasons Riverdale Should Be the Next Show Gossip Girl Fans Binge-Watch
Riverdale may not be the Upper East Side, but the drama between Archie, Betty, Veronica, and Jughead will win over anyone who still misses Gossip Girl. The hit CW show premiered at the start of the year, winning over fans with its fun cast, mysterious plotlines, familiar faces, and memorable style moments. I didn't watch the first season when it aired, but after approximately 35 people recommended Riverdale (slight exaggeration), I finally scrolled through Netflix and decided to give one episode a shot. Hey, I loved the Archie comics, so why not? Well, that one episode quickly turned into watching all 13 from season one. In less than three days.
Full disclosure: I haven't actually watched any shows on The CW since tuning in to Blair and Serena's stories, but Riverdale had me hooked for many of the same reasons I became such a die-hard Gossip Girl fan back in the day. Think: complicated relationships, eye candy, exaggerated high school drama, killer fashion, and a sense of suspense. Riverdale is darker than Gossip Girl, but it has the same sexy, slightly cheesy appeal that makes for a great binge-watch. Before season two premieres on Oct. 11, find out why Riverdale is absolutely worth watching.
10 Gilmore Girls Costumes That Will Transport You Straight to Stars Hollow on Halloween
If you're just as obsessed with Gilmore Girls as we are, why not pay homage to all of your favorite characters on Halloween? From Lorelai to Rory, we have you covered for the perfectly "Gilmored" costume. So grab your cup of coffee and start talking a mile a minute, because Oct. 31 will be here before you know it.
These 3 Cult-Fave Products Are Half Off at Sephora This Week
Every seven days, we are #blessed with a new round of products that Sephora offers for half off, per their Weekly Wow Sale. This time around, three cult-favorite items are discounted.
We crunched the numbers, and if you choose to shop the sale, you could save up to a whopping $39. With that in mind, we give you full permission to hit up the Weekly Wow products and use that extra money to treat yourself . . . to more beauty products of course!
Ahead, take a gander at the Weekly Wow Sale. Remember, as the name implies, these reduced prices will only last for seven short days - or until stock sells out.
Exclusive: Winky Lux's New Palette Will Feed Your Cat Obsession
Winky Lux has truly outdone itself. After winning us over with its viral color-changing jelly lipsticks and hosting the Unicorn Carnival of our dreams, the brand has now debuted an eye-shadow palette inspired by the only thing you love more than makeup: cats.
The Kitten Palette ($25), out today, features nine eye shadows that feel as velvety as a feline's fur. We got our hands on the new launch early and can confirm the shadows are kitten-soft to the touch but, even better, are superpigmented, creamy, and blendable.
The palette has nine shades in four finishes: holographic, matte, satin, and glitter. The hues are a unique mix of both cool and warm tones with Fall-ready copper, brown, and cranberry right alongside shimmery chrome and iridescent lavender. On top of all that goodness, the packaging just begs for an Instagram. It's millennial pink with a floral print adorned with little cat heads. Too cute.
Get an exclusive look at the purrr-fect (sorry) palette, right this way:
32 Things You Never Knew About Apple Stores, Straight From Employees
They call them "Geniuses" for a reason! If you've ever owned or plan on owning an iPhone, Mac computer, or other Apple product, prepare to have your mind blown. We've reached out to several former Apple store employees (who will remain anonymous) for the insider tips and the shocking stories you need to know. Here's what they told us.
Money- and Time-Saving Shopping Secrets
1. You can self-checkout in the store. Through the Apple Store app, you can scan the barcode and pay via your Apple ID. This is limited to items on the sales floor, which is mostly computer and iPhone accessories.
2. Use ApplePay. It's way faster than a credit card.
3. Personal pickup is your friend. Apple has a free service where you can reserve an item at a store, prepay, and get in and out quickly.
4. Everyone can take advantage of the higher education discount online. In person, they will ask to see your college ID, but there's no verification online.
5. Your Apple-branded chargers and headphones are all covered under a one-year warranty. Even if you are out of warranty, it's less expensive to get them replaced through the Genius Bar than buying new ones.
6. Every store has free workshops. And you can attend an unlimited amount of times.
What It's Really Like to Work at an Apple Store
7. It's really hard to get a job there. Apple has a lower acceptance rate than Harvard. The easiest way to get hired is have a current employee refer you.
8. NSOs (New Store Openings) are a big deal. This is especially true if it's in a major city like New York, Hong Kong, and Barcelona. Executives from all around the world will fly in for the event. It's a huge sense of pride to be on an NSO team.
9. Apple's customer service training is based on the Ritz Carlton. New-hire training is three weeks. You learn the APPLE steps of service (Approach, Probe, Present, Listen, End), as well as the three A's of customer support (Acknowledge, Align, Assure). You'll start using these steps on your friends and significant others.
10. The pay is not great. But it is getting better.
11. The benefits are awesome. You receive part-time health benefits, employee purchase stock program at 15 percent discount, $100 a month for commuting, 401K match, and an employee discount.
12. Certain words and actions are off limits. These include:
- "Unfortunately" becomes "As it turns out."
- "I don't know" becomes "Let's find out together!"
- No pointing - use an open hand if you must point something out.
- "Crash" becomes "doesn't respond."
13. Each shift starts with a "daily download." After checking your email (you can't check your email unless you are in a store), the daily download is a 15-minute pep rally for the day. Team metrics, initiatives, and current programs are discussed.
14. Attendance and punctuality are strictly enforced. This is by far the most common reason for employees being involuntarily terminated.
15. Apple forbids its employees from talking about their job on social media and posting pictures of themselves in their uniform shirts. Because of this, there's an underground community of anonymous employees (like Genius Bar Tales on Twitter) who take to social media to vent their frustrations. Everyone reads them and tries to guess if they know who's behind them.
16. We see those comments you write in the surveys. If you fill out an online survey about your store experience, it will get back to the employee who helped you. Each employee gets an NPS (net promoter score) that is used during promotion and raise time.
17. When you leave voluntarily, you get a "clap out." The Apple store is no stranger to clapping. We clap for everything. If you ever see employees randomly cheering in the middle of the day, it's likely a clap out, given to send off an employee on their last day.
18. Product Launches are really exciting. Although we don't get to see the product before it comes out, we train on it in the weeks leading up.
19. Dating your co-workers is very common, but if it comes out that you are dating a manager, one of you will get transferred immediately. One former employee writes, "This is very common. There have been a number of Apple weddings I've been to, and I've met some of my closest friends when working at Apple. I also found my bestie working there."
20. When someone makes daily purchases or pays all in cash, they are likely a reseller. Products are frequently released in the United States before other countries. There is a huge market overseas for Apple products.
Genius Bar Pro Tips and Horror Stories
21. If you have a desktop Mac with AppleCare, you may be eligible for at-home repair. Don't lug your huge computer to an Apple store. Call AppleCare to see if they can arrange at-home/office repair (at no additional cost).
22. The Genius team is a boys club. Although Apple prides itself on diversity, one former employee notes that she never saw a Genius team that was more than 10 percent female, with many stores not having a single woman on the team.
"Being a woman isn't exactly a walk in the park when it comes to the Genius Bar," she writes. "There have been many times that a customer did not believe what I said or did not want me to work on their device. It's a little disheartening when a male employee repeats the same exact thing you said to a customer and the customer agrees. There have been times where a customer did not let me to touch their iPhone when it needed to be fixed but instead flagged down a male employee."
Bodily fluids, computers yellowing with nicotine, bug infestations, cat vomit on computers - you will get it all.
23. Not everyone staffed at the Genius Bar is a "Genius." A Genius is someone who is certified to repair and troubleshoot Apple computers. Apple has created several other positions that specialize in individualized training, group workshops, and iOS hardware/software that are all staffed at the Genius Bar.
24. You will see things you wish you hadn't. These include gross stuff in and on computers and phones. Bodily fluids, computers yellowing with nicotine, bug infestations, cat vomit on computers - you will get it all.
WE DO NOT GO LOOKING THROUGH YOUR STUFF, but sometimes it just happens. Please remember that. Be mindful of your browser history, or what applications open up automatically when you turn the computer on. You know that feature to reopen all windows when you restart? Just remember to close your last porn session browser before you bring the computer into the store. The same goes for mobile devices. Most times, a technician has to open up Safari to run diagnostics; please remember that and close any questionable websites. Even if you're not embarrassed, the technician might be.
25. Please let people know if you are leaving your device in an Apple store for repair and turn off message notifications. Most people have their messages synced across all their Apple devices. The last thing you want is to have one of them in for repair and have ultrapersonal and/or intimate messages start popping up. Again, most technicians do not go through and read any of that stuff, and most of them want to know AS LITTLE about a customer's personal life as possible, but it's hard to ignore a picture message that suddenly appears on the screen.
26. Be kind; most people behind the Genius Bar genuinely want to help you. When they tell you that in order to fix a hardware issue there will be a cost associated with it, understand that the Genius helping you has most likely tried everything they can in order to avoid this.
27. AppleCare is not insurance. AppleCare is an extension of the manufacturer's warranty. What that entails depends on the product. Physical damage is not covered for computers, and some mobile devices (iPhones, iPod Touches, and iPads) have AppleCare+ available. This gives you a specific number of instances to pay a lower deductible for physical damage.
28. Cases and screen protectors are not a 100 percent protective guarantee. It helps with cosmetic appearance, but if your product still gets damaged with a case on, that's normal. And no, if the case or screen protector is damaged, Apple cannot replace it.
29. Back your stuff up before you come in for a repair. A technician never ever wants to tell someone, "Hey, you know all those pictures of your new baby? Yeah . . . those are gone and it could have been completely preventable."
Yes, it is incredibly frustrating to delay a repair because you have to go home and back your stuff up, but keep in mind this technician is trying to help you not lose important information. If you don't care, and you tell that to your technician, they probably document that in the paperwork. Please do not be insulted by this. There have been a ton of instances where a customer was told a million different ways "there is a chance you will lose ALL of your information, are you OK with that?" and they said "yes" only to lose their sh*t when they find out that all of their information was lost.
30. When you drop something off for repair, make sure the customer information is correct. This is how the Apple store gets in contact with you. Also add anyone that might possibly pick up the repair. The Apple store takes customer privacy seriously and asks for ID when picking up the computer. They don't want to hand off the repair to the wrong person. It has happened . . . A LOT.
One More Thing
31. Celebrities need phones, too. Apple 5th Ave. has a secret room to the right of the cash wrap, used by VIPs and celebs to shop in private.
- Additional reporting by several former Apple store employees who wish to remain anonymous.
8 Haunted Houses in New Orleans That Will Scare Your Pants Off
If you're looking for a spook today, we've got just the thing! New Orleans is perhaps America's most haunted city, so it's no surprise the place is full of ghosts, ghost stories, and floating entities. So, if you dare, come take a look at eight of the most frightening haunted houses - many of which are actually hotels - in the Big Easy!
- Additional reporting by Angela Elias
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