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.
mercredi 4 octobre 2017
Does Donald Trump Have a Dog? No - and That’s Not Even the Craziest Part
Presidents tend to have a lot in common. They are married to spouses who work to carry on American values, with whom they live in the same house and with whom they assumedly sleep in the same bed. They raise largely successful children who don't work for them and who they've never mentioned wanting to sleep with. They are hardworking and smart, available at all hours to fight for America. They rarely take time off for leisure save for brief reprieves with literature. And they have a dog - or two.
Much of the same cannot be said of our current president, Donald Trump. In fact, Trump is the first president in more than 100 years to be dogless. This gaping hole in Americanness shouldn't be that shocking given Mr. Trump's contrarian, "Drain the swamp!" style.
Several presidents have gone dogless, but the last president to be without a dog was William McKinley, who was commander in chief from 1897-1901. However, according to the Presidential Pet Museum, McKinley did have pets: he had a parrot, two angora kittens, and roosters. Does Trump have any pets? The Presidential Pet Museum believes not.
Also of note before McKinley is Andrew Johnson. He didn't have a dog, was impeached in 1868 and apparently "left flour out at night for a family of white mice playing in his room" amidst the political drama. Pet food for thought.
One fluffy, silver lining is that Trump has reportedly attempted to get a dog in recent months, specifically a goldendoodle named Patton. As the New York Post reported in January, Trump was set to adopt the pup from friend Lois Pope, but Pope kept the dog after forming a connection with it herself. Pope claims Trump listed his constant traveling as a reason why he'd be a poor owner. Hmm.
Further proof that Trump seems to be anticanine? He loves insulting people by saying they failed or choked "like a dog" on Twitter.
Mitt Romney had his chance to beat a failed president but he choked like a dog. Now he calls me racist-but I am least racist person there is
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 11, 2016
.@EWErickson got fired like a dog from RedState
and now he is the one leading opposition against me.- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 18, 2016
Wow was Ted Cruz disloyal to his very capable director of communication. He used him as a scape goat-fired like a dog! Ted panicked.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 23, 2016
Union Leader refuses to comment as to why they were kicked out of the ABC News debate like a dog. For starters, try getting a new publisher!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2016
.@GlennBeck got fired like a dog by #Fox. The Blaze is failing and he wanted to have me on his show. I said no - because he is irrelevant.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 17, 2015
I hear that sleepy eyes @chucktodd will be fired like a dog from ratings starved Meet The Press? I can't imagine what is taking so long!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 13, 2015
Obama called Reverend Wright his friend, counselor & great leader--then dumped him like a dog!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 3, 2012
Robert Pattinson should not take back Kristen Stewart. She cheated on him like a dog & will do it again--just watch. He can do much better!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 17, 2012
Egypt is a total mess. We should have backed Mubarak instead of dropping him like a dog.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 12, 2012
We're anxious to know what will become of Trump's presidential pet ownership, but we do know one thing: getting a dog might help solve his failing disapproval ratings. As the Washington Post observes, a presidential dog offers good publicity and bipartisan relatability. They also provide personal benefits like stress reduction and loyalty.
Might not want to let that sleeping dog lie, President Trump.
Rex Tillerson May or May Not Have Called Trump a Moron, but Trump Once Tweeted It About Obama
President Donald Trump has always been adamant that his Twitter habit is essential to his style of governance, that those individuals who truly want to MAGA are the ones he's successfully reaching with his 140-character messages. Whether or not that's actually true is up for debate, but there is one thing that we can all be certain of: thanks to years upon years of Trump sharing his thoughts with his followers, he's made it so that there's an archive of his real-time feelings about basically everything. Unfortunately for the Trump administration and its attempts at policymaking, those documented opinions don't always match up with what he's now putting forth publicly as President of the United States.
As a result, "there's always a tweet" has become a common refrain among the denizens of Twitter, the weary political media, and anyone looking to put some sense behind a pattern of seemingly illogical actions. Take, for example, the latest White House drama: a series of strange events that kicked off after news that Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was unhappy with the current administration, wanted to leave, and thought that the president was a "moron." Spoiler alert: yes, there's a tweet - but let's step back and review the situation first.
On Oct. 4, NBC News published the comprehensive reporting that documented Tillerson's increasing fury with the White House and his desire to make an exit - one that was purportedly only staved off by an intervention from Vice President Mike Pence. For most administrations, this would be a small thing to address in a calm, damage control-related way - but not this one. Instead, a solo press conference was announced, and Trump immediately took to Twitter to lash out at NBC (which, for the record, he's still pissed off at for not supporting him after he gave them "great ratings" with The Apprentice.)
Wow, so many Fake News stories today. No matter what I do or say, they will not write or speak truth. The Fake News Media is out of control!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 4, 2017
NBC news is #FakeNews and more dishonest than even CNN. They are a disgrace to good reporting. No wonder their news ratings are way down!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 4, 2017
During the 11 a.m. press conference, Tillerson refuted the implication that he had ever considered leaving the administration. Trump again took to Twitter a mere 18 minutes after his secretary of state approached the podium, ostensibly to ensure that everyone knew that the story was false and that Tillerson had confirmed that fact in a public setting.
The @NBCNews story has just been totally refuted by Sec. Tillerson and @VP Pence. It is #FakeNews. They should issue an apology to AMERICA!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 4, 2017
But here's the thing. Semantics are everything when you use Twitter to communicate, and while Tillerson did in fact deny some parts of NBC News's reporting, he quite notably did not deny calling Trump a moron. And that fact wasn't lost on many who witnessed the whole thing as it unfolded throughout the morning - including California Sen. Ted Lieu.
Dear @realDonaldTrump: Many Americans watched press conference of Rex Tillerson. He didn't deny calling you a Moron, as reported by @NBCNews https://t.co/TdNZub9zcW
- Ted Lieu (@tedlieu) October 4, 2017
At this point, it's pretty clear that Tillerson said something - but we'll probably never know his exact words. Instead, we'll likely be treated to several more days of attacks on NBC and the fake news media - and, of course, the knowledge that with regard to the Tillerson-NBC-Trump saga, we can now officially continue on the legacy of there always being a tweet.
Behold: the ultimate proof that what goes around, comes around. We hope you're out there laughing your ass off, Mr. Obama.
An interesting cartoon that is circulating. http://pic.twitter.com/OPG2R2ytkr
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 22, 2014
The Weightlifting Technique That Will Change Your Body
Ever plan to go to the gym and stop dead in your tracks because you just don't know what to do? Maybe your goals are too broad? Maybe you're expecting too much? How can you really lose weight, gain lean muscle, and build your dream body with just one simple workout plan that doesn't require you move into the gym for the next year? Clearly, you're expecting too much from your efforts, right? Wrong! There is a way to reshape your body by losing fat and gaining muscle without spending countless hours in the gym. What do you have to do? Lift heavy weights to create lean muscle and lift light weights to promote fat loss. The best part? You can be in and out of the gym in less than 30 minutes each day. Here's how!
The heavy and light strength-training plan combines a couple of the most fundamental principles of lifting weights. The intention is to do an exercise for four sets with a heavy weight and low reps (up to six) and then another exercise that targets the same muscle for four more sets with higher reps (up to 12), but with a lighter weight. According to personal trainer Brian Pankau, CPT, you need to take "two to three minutes of rest between heavy [sets], and 45 to 60 seconds between lighter sets."
How does this plan work? When you lift heavy weights your muscles fatigue and ultimately grow (you won't look like a bodybuilder - we promise). From there, you work the same muscles with lighter weights to totally exhaust them, which burns more calories, creates a leaner body composition, and increases endurance. Muscles grow, body fat decreases, and you're only doing two exercises per body part. According to Anthony J. Yeung, CSCS, with this plan, "you'll burn more calories, shed fat, add more strength, and feel more energetic in daily life."
As a result of this significant caloric depletion, certified personal trainer and owner of HitchFit.com Micah Lacerte cautions that, "Nutrition will play a big role in what sort of results someone will get performing this plan, but if they are on [the proper type of diet], then this style of training will be excellent for building lean muscle." You have to make the effort to eat six small meals each day that all include some form of protein - with specific care to ensure you're getting protein before and after you work out.
While this plan can definitely work, it may not be for everyone. Pankau believes that while "fat loss is going to occur, [it may] not be fast enough for somebody with too much excess fat, so this plan is great for light and medium builds, but not really meant for heavier-set people."
What does this mean for you? For tight and toned triceps, a good combo would be overhead triceps extensions with a heavy weight and triceps kickbacks with lighter weights. For leaner, more sculpted legs, do leg presses with a heavy weight, and lunges with light dumbbells at your sides, or no added weights at all! For stronger, tighter biceps, heavy hammer curls and light preacher curls. The key is to do two moves per body part, one heavy, one light as described above. This will exhaust your muscles, promoting growth while leaning out your body. If you're in average shape, you can look way above average in less time. If you're in good shape, you may want to move to a beachfront property soon. Enjoy!
How to Kill Your Sugar Addiction Before It Kills You
While excusing yourself from sugary celebrations is no fun, neither is dealing with a post-sugar-binge hangover. And on top of it, the more sugar you eat, the more you crave - it can take a few days to weeks to get over an addiction to refined sugar once you start. Not only that, but studies have shown that eating too much refined sugar can speed up your body's aging process. If you know you can't resist sweet temptations, read on to learn nutritionist-approved strategies that will keep you on the right track.
- Choose wisely: If you're going to indulge, go for seasonal sweets that you know you can't get when it's not the holidays. "You can have chocolate any time of the year," says registered dietitian, nutritionist, and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics spokesperson Tamara Melton. Go for a seasonal dessert you crave all year, like a treat from an ice cream truck in the Summer or pumpkin pie in the Fall. Just remember that just because these treats are only available for a limited time doesn't mean you should go overboard. Practice portion control by having a plan, Tamara advises.
- Think positive: Set yourself up for success by telling yourself that you got this. "Words are powerful," says Kathie Dolgin, author of Sugar Savvy Solution: Kick Your Sugar Addiction for Life and Get Healthy. "If you think resisting sugar is going to be hard, it will be hard. Change that negative self-talk if you are going to take control of your diet and your health. Believe you can do this!"
- Not being hungry is key: Don't want to chow down on the entire candy bowl? Set yourself up for success by eating a balanced meal or snack every three to four hours, Tamara says. Simone Gloger, a registered nutritionist and Dukan Diet nutritionist, recommends three protein-rich meals and two protein-rich snacks every day to help you resist cravings. "I usually pack my lunch and snacks each day so I don't give into the temptation that is all around me," Simone says.
- Know that cravings might be something else: Before you reach for that peanut butter cup, think about what you really need. "People mistake thirst for hunger or cravings," Kathie says. "That dip in energy that sends you hunting for a snack is often just a sign of dehydration. So hydrate and hydrate and drink water, not juice or soda." Kathie recommends spa water - water infused with your favorite fruits - to hit sugar cravings the natural way. If you are craving a treat, opt for a small piece of dark chocolate or a single-serving yogurt that comes with sweet mix-ins like chocolate or granola, Tamara advises.
- Don't dwell: Tried your best, but couldn't resist the siren song of holiday treats? Don't beat yourself up about it. "Forgive yourself and get back on track," Kathie says. "Forgiving and being kind to others (as well as yourself!) boosts self-esteem and gratitude for what you have (thus combating the negative self-talk that can send you running for the cookie jar) and gives you the same endorphin rush as sugar." Afterward, make sure your next meal is only when you are hungry, Tamara says. "Resolve to eat healthier at your next meal, then load up on plenty of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains. Be sure to also include lean sources of protein, which help to keep you satisfied."
I Fasted For 16 Hours a Day For 6 Months and This Is What Happened
If you've been following my weight-loss journey, you know that I'm big into CrossFit. But after seven months of doing burpees, box jumps, and snatches, I still had a layer of fat that wouldn't budge.
Before
In February of 2017, I started intermittent fasting (IF), specifically the 16:8 method, where you don't eat anything for 16 hours of the day and eat during the other eight. I stopped eating at 8 p.m. and didn't eat again until noon the next day, so basically I skipped breakfast. Some people choose to do other fasting windows, like skipping dinner, but this is what worked best for my schedule.
I was looking for something that would help me get rid of the belly fat I had been holding onto practically my entire life, even though I was once a runner and still follow a strict vegan diet. I extensively researched the different methods of intermittent fasting, and one day, I just decided to go for it.
After only one month of fasting, I started to see my belly fat disappearing, and after three months, I noticed an even bigger difference. I decided to keep going! So here I am, six months later, and I feel amazing.
Curious? Here are the answers to the most common questions people ask me when they find out I do intermittent fasting.
After
Aren't you starving in the morning? Those first few weeks were tough, as my body was adapting to getting out of the habit of eating in the morning. But after time, the hunger went away. Let me get a little science-y here for a sec. Grehlin is the hunger hormone, which increases appetite and cravings, and when you're fasting, grehlin production decreases.
When I do get a hunger pang first thing in the morning, it goes away when I drink water. Without the constant supply of food that my body used to get when I was eating five or six times a day, my body was now able to tap into the extra energy (fat) that was stored in my body.
How did you function at work in the morning? I thought I'd feel tired, foggy-headed, have a huge headache, or be so distracted by my desire to eat, but I feel the exact opposite. I have laser focus, my thoughts feel clearer, I have tons of energy, and I don't have to waste time thinking about what I'm going to eat, prepping, or cleaning up. I actually feel better than ever.
Did your sugar cravings increase? You'd think not eating all morning would make me want to reach for chocolate the first chance I had, but all I crave are healthy foods. During these last few months, I also cut down on eating refined carbs, ice cream, and chocolate. Those foods sit heavy in my stomach, and feeling crappy after eating them has helped extinguish my cravings for them.
What do you eat during your eight-hour feasting window? I usually break my fast with a handful of raw almonds and a banana or two, followed by a huge salad topped with tofu, beans, avocado, and sunflower seeds, or this roasted tofu, sweet potato, and red pepper dish. Around 3:30 p.m., I have a protein smoothie, a Larabar, or some carrots with guacamole. For dinner, I do a big vegan meal - kale salad with roasted butternut squash and tofu is my fave. Depending on what time I finish dinner, I have some apple slices with salted cashews or a square of this recipe for no-bake brownies. I definitely do not go hungry!
The best thing about IF for me is that I don't count calories and I don't stress about eating too much. The biggest benefit was how IF helped me get a handle on my food addiction. I used to think about eating all day long. I'd eat when I wasn't hungry and would stuff more food in my face when I was already full. It's weird. Part of my brain knew I should stop eating, and the other part just wanted to eat, and that's the part that's been curbed.
Did you lose weight? This is the million dollar question! Actually, I didn't lose a single pound. But it's clear that my body composition has changed, and I've gained muscle and lost body fat - I can see it in my belly and in my face. Since I was continuing to do CrossFit five days a week throughout these six months, I've also noticed more muscle definition in my arms, my quads, and hints of a six-pack budding.
How is your digestion? Amazing, thanks for asking! I've always had an issue with extremely uncomfortable bloating, especially when I eat sugar or overeat, so intermittent fasting basically cured me. Not eating for 16 hours straight gave my body time to digest, and because I was more conscious about what I was putting into my body, I didn't have an issue with overeating or eating too much crap. I'm so thankful for feeling less bloated in the morning and at night. I was ready to go see a gastroenterologist, but now I don't have to!
Do your workouts suffer? I actually feel stronger all around. I am lifting heavier, running faster, and pushing myself harder than I was six months ago. I also haven't gotten sick once (I'm knocking on wood, but I don't need to!). This was one of the benefits aside from weight loss and mental clarity I was excited to see unfold. Some research shows that fasting supports your immune system and can reduce inflammation. I've actually felt less sore, and a shoulder injury I've had for over a decade doesn't bother me anymore. Coincidence?! Fasting allows your body a chance to take a break from digesting so it can put its energy into healing.
Is fasting hard? I'm not going to lie. Some days are tougher than others. Traveling, weekends, holidays, parties, and grueling workouts make me want to eat in the morning, so I haven't been completely strict the entire six months. Some days I shifted my eating window a few hours so I ate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Some days I said to hell with it! I'm going to the new vegan bakery for breakfast and sharing a cinnamon bun with my son.
Final Thoughts
After recently turning 40, I found my metabolism was slowing down. I like the idea of being able to use IF as a way of eating that I can continue for the rest of my life. I love the freedom of being able to sit down to larger, satisfying meals and eat treats whenever I want to. I don't have to count calories, go low-carb, or exercise two hours a day in order to maintain my weight. I've also read about how fasting may prevent certain diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and cancer, all of which are in my family history, so that's another reason I'm inspired to stick with this new lifestyle.
I know what you're thinking. Skipping breakfast is bad. It's the most important meal of the day, and if you don't eat it, your metabolism slows down and you go into starvation mode! That's what we've been told. I'm living proof that all of that isn't true. My intermittent fasting journey has actually inspired three of my friends to start doing IF, too. If I've sparked your interest, do your research and try it for yourself.
E.L.F. Just Launched Makeup That Could Survive a Sweaty HIIT Workout Class
Workouts are the new happy hour. More and more, I've found myself catching up with friends, networking with industry peers, and bonding with teammates at the workout studio over the bar. That's why wearing makeup to the gym has become my new norm. When I tell most people this, they kind of scoff and go "What's the point?" or "Who are you trying to impress?," but I personally feel better when I've got a little something on my face. Even if I'm working out solo - you never know who you're going to run into.
The only issue is, my regular makeup feels heavy. 15 minutes into a spin class, foundation starts caking and mascara turns into a raccoon smudge. So, when I heard E.L.F. Cosmetics would be launching an affordable active makeup line meant to be sweat-resistant, I had high hopes.
This morning I tried out the collection in a HIIT class at Fhitting Room, only one of New York's toughest studios. I used the Workout Ready Eye Pencil ($4), Lip & Cheek Palette ($8), the brow gel half of the Mascara & Brow Duo ($6), and the Get Up and Glow hydration Stick ($8). The finished product was minimal and the perfect no-makeup makeup look. I felt put-together but not overdone.
During the workout, I actually didn't feel like anything was even on my skin. That's what I liked about the products most: they're weightless and breathable. Plus, they don't smudge. That was my biggest concern with the black eye liner, yet even through drips of sweat, it stayed put. The collection also has skin care goods like a cooling, refreshing face mist ($8) that'll save you from looking like a hot mess while you rush from the gym to work. There's also a pack of delicious-smelling, aloe-vera boosted body wipes ($3) - a great shower substitute for when the line too damn long and you've got places to go (don't worry, I won't tell anyone).
E.L.F. Active will be available in stores at Walmart starting February 2018 - but you can get them right now on elfcosmetics.com. Take a look at the full collection, ahead.
Sofia Vergara Is Obsessed With This 1 Pair of Underwear - and You Will Be Too
Image Source: EBY
Sofia Vergara has been in the limelight for over two decades, and in that time, she's managed to continue to woo us with every single outfit she's worn on the red carpet. But now we're getting a peek at what's underneath her dresses. The 45-year-old released her underwear line, EBY, alongside her partner, Renata Black, in September, and she spoke to POPSUGAR all about the company, even revealing what her favorite type of underwear is.
POPSUGAR: Talk to us about your new company, EBY. What does it stand for?
Sofia Vergara: Empower by you. It means that you, the girl who subscribes to get her underwear on joineby.com, are going to empower a woman somewhere in the world to be able to open her own business. Ten percent of the net sales of the underwear you're purchasing is going to one of those women. It's fantastic. You will be getting the most perfect, wonderful underwear and empowering a woman somewhere in the world to be able to do the thing she wants.
PS: Why was it important for you to start this company?
SV: It was amazing because I've been looking for a project like this for a long time. I wasn't specifically looking to open an underwear business, but I met with Renata [Black, her cofounder], and she had already formulated this great idea. When we sat down, she told me she wanted to create a business that would micro-finance loans to women in need everywhere in the world. I told her to send me the underwear and I fell in love with it. Everything that she told me that the underwear was going to do, it does it. I was really surprised because I didn't think you could reinvent the wheel with underwear, but it was perfection. We have from size XS-4X. There is a size for everyone. It's not only comfortable, but it's pretty and cute. There is no problem if someone sees you in it [Laughing].
PS: If you were one of the recipients of a micro-finance loan, what kind of business would you start?
SV: I was thinking about that the other day. If I was in that situation, I think I would open a hair and/or makeup salon. I would want to try to make a woman feel beautiful and cute. Even though there are rough times, as women, we always like to feel cute, and I think that's an important part of being feminine and being a woman.
What's your favorite kind of underwear to wear on a daily basis?
SV: The thong. It's super comfortable and I love it. I also use the cheeky. It's great because you can wear anything and you won't see it because it's seamless.
A Professional Trendspotter Tells Us Exactly What Designs Will Be Hot in 2018
When your job is to spot trends and turn them into dazzling decor, it goes without saying that you have an eye for design. So when Nancy Fire, founder of Design Works International and design director for HGTV Home, returned from her travels abroad, we had to know what trends she was forecasting. After all, it's only a matter of time before they cross the sea and take over the shelves of every interiors store in the US. Lucky for us, Nancy obliged. Ahead, check out her list of the top trends we can expect to see along with inspiration images Nancy snapped during her travels.
These Skull Logs Are the Best Thing to Happen to Halloween Since Candy
Turn up your Halloween decorating this year in the most unexpected way: with human skull logs. These macabre fireproof sculptures are sized and shaped exactly like the real thing, so if you toss them into your backyard fire pit, be forewarned that the neighbors just might call the cops. If you would rather put them in a gas or traditional fireplace mixed with wood, you can do that as well, since they're made of reinforced steel with lava granules and refractory ceramic (the same thing NASA uses to test rockets) and can tolerate up to 3,000 degrees! While these creepy fireproof skulls will cost you $70 a pop, they're sure to last you a very long time - the manufacturer even claims they look more realistic after a couple of burnings. They're available in black, brown, white, or aged dark gray, so pick the color that best complements your decor and get to decorating!
Skull Terrariums Are the Perfect DIY Project For Halloween-Loving Goth Queens
Skull-shaped succulent planters are currently dominating Pinterest in honor of the Halloween season, and we're so freakin' here for them. If you are just as obsessed with the trend and want another way to decorate your home with skulls, look no further than skull-shaped terrariums. They're a gothy alternative to those basic spherical terrariums and are super easy to make at home as your favorite pumpkin-scented candle burns in the background.
Once you've purchased your corked glass skull head (which can be found through retailers like Michaels and Etsy), all you need are some soil, pebbles, moss, and plants of choice. We suggest succulents to make your masterpiece extra Instagram worthy. Squeezing each item through the tiny opening on top of the container may be tricky, so go for smaller plants and pebbles to make things easy. Once you've carefully placed every component in the skeletal glass vessel, you'll have an edgy yet chic desktop decoration that can stay up well past the spooky holiday.
Before you roll up your sleeves and dive into this Halloween-ready DIY project, read on to see how other crafty Instagram users have made their skull terrariums for a dose of inspiration.
Miley Cyrus's Mom Designed Her a Superstylish Barn For When She Visits Home
Until recently, Tish Cyrus was best known for being the mom of music superstar Miley Cyrus and wife of country legend Billy Ray Cyrus - but this mother of five (yes, she has five kids!) is seriously talented all on her own. This May, she stunned Bravo fans with her interior design skills in the series Cyrus vs. Cyrus, and she just opened the doors of her new Nashville abode to Architectural Digest.
While the entire home is inspiring - think cozy, country boho - perhaps the most standout element is the barn Tish designed specifically for Miley. "The floors were dirt; there was no flooring at all; and I thought the contractors were going to say we had to tear it down. But we ran the plumbing and we ran the electrical," she told Architectural Digest. After having to literally pick up the barn and move it closer to the main house in order to meet city codes, Tish set to work creating a "spunky" place for Miley to hang out when she visits home. Twinkle lights, a loft bed, and pops of bright pastels mark the one-of-a-kind barn guest house. Check it out ahead, and then visit Architectural Digest to read the complete feature on the Cyruses' new home.
Not a Trick: 14 Healthy and Adorable Halloween Treats
The thought of the highs and lows a child gets from binging on Halloween candy is enough to put the scare in any parent. But kids don't need to succumb to sugar's roller coaster ride. Though a few pieces of candy on Halloween night are almost non-negotiable, we've rounded up 14 healthier Halloween goodies that are not only adorable, but are sure to be a treat.
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!
5 Toxic Beauty Ingredients You Should Never Use If You're Trying to Get Pregnant
Hormones aren't just here to make us crazy - they play an important role in making sure our body functions properly, especially when it comes to reproduction. Unfortunately, your favorite lipstick or perfume might just get in the way of that. Many personal care products contain ingredients known as "endocrine disruptors." These troublemakers can wreak havoc on the endocrine system that regulates our hormones.
"These endocrine disrupting chemicals can affect fertility or have long term impacts on the baby."
Well first of all, you could be pregnant without knowing it, and these chemicals can interfere with normal hormone functions that are crucial to a healthy pregnancy and breastfeeding.
But they may also cause reproductive problems before you get pregnant. Studies have linked endocrine disruptors to endometriosis, disorders of the uterus, and disorders of the ovaries, such as premature ovarian failure (POF) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
"Some chemicals can affect our hormones at even low levels," Nneka Leiba, director for Healthy Living Science at the Environmental Working Group, told me. "These endocrine disrupting chemicals can affect fertility or have long term impacts on the baby."
Much of the research concedes that more needs to be done to determine the true risk of exposure to such chemicals in our personal care products. But considering the FDA has little proactive oversight of cosmetic ingredients, you may want to play it safe and avoid endocrine disrupting chemicals when it comes time to think about starting a family.
Groups like EWG or the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics maintain lists of potentially problematic ingredients. EWG puts out a Dirty Dozen endocrine disruptor list (which includes chemicals found in cleaning supplies or food), while the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics has a searchable database of chemicals of concern.
Many of these chemicals - which specifically impact reproductive functions - are found in your favorite cosmetic and personal care products. If you're trying to conceive, we've identified endocrine disruptors that may be hiding in your makeup bag or vanity cabinet. You'll want to check the ingredient labels and then swap out any offenders with these safer options. It's the perfect excuse to try out some new makeup!
The 11 Most Instagrammable Kids' Toys on the Internet
Toys come in all shapes and sizes, but to the adult eye, most toys come in obnoxious shapes and ridiculous sizes. So often, our kids' playthings are so visually offensive that we relegate them to a separate room entirely. Not so with these finds, many of which you've probably spotted in a well-lit snap on your Instagram feed. From vintage-inspired stuffed animals to play kitchens that rival your own, here are the most hashtag-worthy toys on the internet.
A Ranking of the Worst Halloween Candy For Your Teeth
Knowing that a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup takes 734 jumping jacks to burn off may not really phase you, or prevent you from reaching for another. But maybe knowing that those little fun-size treats really do a number on your dental health might make you think twice.
Dr. Holly Halliday, a periodontist, and Dr. Gabriel Mannarino, a dentist, both from Williston Dental Team told POPSUGAR that it's "the most cariogenic foods (ie. the most likely to cause cavities) are the sticky ones." Here's their list of sticky candies from worst to least harmful:
- Laffy Taffy
- Starburst
- Dots
- Gummy Bears/Worms
- Skittles
- Raisinets
- Snickers
- Milky Way
- Twix
Before you go cry into your Jack-o-Lantern, they offered a bit of good news. Better candy options include Kit Kat, Nestle's Crunch, Hershey's Chocolate, M&Ms, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and "similar chocolates because they are not as 'sticky' as the ones mentioned above."
But more important than what candy you unwrap is how you eat it and what you do after you're done. Holly says, "It's better to have them all at once than several times throughout the day. When you have them all at once it's just one insult to the teeth, but if you eat them often during the day, you're constantly exposing the teeth to sugar. That constant exposure ultimately weakens the enamel, which is called decalcification. If it continues, the enamel will become cavitated, and you have a cavity!" Holly and Gabe then recommend rinsing the mouth out with water to dilute the sugar, and waiting at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth.
Holly adds that it's not only candy that puts your teeth at risk for cavities. "Anything that gets stuck in the grooves of the teeth or in between them and stays there for a long time is more likely to cause a problem." Most people don't think of raisins, dried apricots, dates, fruit leather, and one of the worst offenders - potato chips! - as "cavity-causing," but they are if you eat them often.
5 Things You Never Knew About Spirit Halloween
You know it's Halloween time when candy starts to hit the shelves and Spirit Halloween enters vacated strip malls. The dominating costume store has served most of America's Halloween needs since 1983, and with many of its locations decked out like a haunted house, Spirit has separated itself from other seasonal retailers. See five things ahead that you never knew about the company!
1. It's owned by Spencer's.
When the gag gift store acquired the company in 1999, Spirit had already been a presence in malls. But it dominated Halloween by going from 63 stores to 1,300 locations across the nation through its smart seasonal operation.
2. You can buy costumes online anytime of year.
Though Spirit only takes over strip centers and malls from late August to early November, costumes are available for purchase all year long on its website.
3. It makes a lot of money in just those few months.
Spirit is clearly profitable as it's able to open annually for only a short period of time. According to this Reddit thread, Spirit earns nearly half of the company's revenue just within the time it's open for the Halloween season.
4. Spirit donates to children's hospitals.
Starting in 2006, the company began the Spirit of Children program to raise money in-store and online for the Child Life department at partner hospitals. One-hundred percent of donations go toward hospitals to fund educational items like laptops and toys designed for children with physical disabilities. Spirit has raised over $37 million for partners across the country, which has allowed some hospitals to increase staff in the department.
5. It's a tough business to run.
Think about it, Spirit has to literally build each store from scratch every single year. It has to hire and train 30,000 temporary and online operation employees, requiring a smart and efficient strategy to prevent them from falling behind. Leaders fine-tune the plan after every season based on things they noticed could be improved, from color-coding display equipment to creating training videos.
Our Favorite Candy Bars Just Got Filled With Protein, and We're on a Sugar High
There's nothing healthy about a chocolate bar, right? The oozing, sugar-filled deliciousness stuffed in between layers of chocolate doesn't really leave room for any nutritional benefits. But Mars, the manufacturer of brands like Snickers, Twix, M&M's, and more, just gave some of our favorite candy bars a protein-filled upgrade, and it's leaving fitness fanatics ecstatic.
Protein by Mars is a new line of protein candy bars that puts a unique spin on the classics. Snickers, Milky Way, Bounty, and Mars bars have all received the protein treatment with 18 to 19 grams added into each bar. They are fewer than 200 calories each and could be a revolutionary way to fuel up and satisfy your sweet tooth, all at the same time. The bars are sold on Amazon, but are only available in the United Kingdom.
Read on to see photos of the protein candy bars, and stay tuned for more information about these treats making their way to the US. In the meantime, check out how to make your own healthy vegan Snickers.
27 Healthy Chinese Recipes That Beat Any Takeout Menu
If there's one thing we know, it's that switching up what we eat and trying out new recipes make eating healthy a whole lot easier. So, instead of reaching for the phone to order a sodium-filled meal of sesame chicken, just make a better version yourself! There are plenty of healthy, easy Chinese food recipes that will become your new "takeout," and we have them for you here.
Gearing Up For Stranger Things Season 2? Don't Forget How Season 1 Ends
The first season of Netflix's sci-fi/horror series Stranger Things premiered last Summer, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about shows of the year. The supernatural series follows a young group of boys that go on a mission to find their missing friend in 1980s Indiana. As they get closer to the truth, they uncover a secret, scientific government operation, a psychokinetic girl, and an alternate dimension haunted by a deadly monster. Before the show's second season premieres on Oct. 27, take a look back at some of its biggest moments, reminding yourself of what questions still need to be answered, as well as the fate of your favorite characters! Spoilers ahead.
What Does a Serving Size Look Like?
Since we're living in the age of enormous super-sized portions, bottomless this, and all-you-can-eat that, we've really lost sight of what an actual serving size is. And for those of us trying to lose or maintain our weight, we know we need to tone down our portion sizes, but what does that look like on our plate? These visual reminders should help.
| Food | One Serving Equals . . . |
|---|---|
| Breads, pasta, cereal, cooked grain, etc. |
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| Fruits |
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| Veggies |
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| Meat, chicken, or fish |
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| Dairy |
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| Nuts |
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Jennifer Lopez's Dad Has Been by Her Side For All of Her Biggest Accomplishments
You might see Jennifer Lopez with her mom and sisters all the time - they are one tight group - but while her dad, David Lopez, is more private, that doesn't stop the actress, singer, and producer from showing him some love on social media and bringing him along to the most important red carpets.
David has been by Jennifer's side through movie premieres, the opening of her Las Vegas residency, and even her Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony, where he posed for photos with his ex-wife and grandchildren. On his birthday in 2016, Jennifer did what every daughter is known to do on a special occasion, commemorating his day with a cute picture on Instagram and a sweet caption that read: "Happy Birthday to this amazing man who raised me into the person I am today and who showed me unconditional love truly exists!!!"
Like with most of J Lo's life (her relationship with Alex Rodriguez and her kids, for example), she finds the perfect way to keep fans in the loop, while still respecting her loved ones' privacy, stepping in to defend her family when needed. In 2007, Jennifer set the record straight about her dad's religion. "My dad has been a Scientologist for 20 years. He's the best man that I know in my life and so, it's weird to me that people want to paint it in a negative way," she told CBS.
Jennifer will be the first to say that regardless of the ups and downs in their relationships, her dad has always found his way back to being her number one cheerleader. "I feel like he's always been proud, since I was like running track when I was 9 or 10 years old," J Lo shared with the Today show in 2016. "He was like, 'My daughter runs track!' . . . It just didn't matter to him. He was just proud of me."
Christmas Fans, You're Going to Lose Your Mind Over This Ho, Ho, Hotel
If you're obsessed with Christmas, brace yourselves. A hotel exists that is decked-out in full-blown holiday decor 365 days a year. Forget counting down the days until Dec. 25 and just stay the night at The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge, TN, where every day is a magical "Winter" wonderland, complete with twinkle lights and Christmas trees. See this holiday ho, ho, hotel now!
Prepare to Scream Over How Adorable These Pet Costumes Are
If you have a pet, then you know firsthand how much fun it is to spoil them. Whether it's a fresh bag of treats, a fluffy new bed that will consume your living room floor, or toys designed to occupy - and let's be real, annoy - your cat, the love they express, either through a wag or a smile, is palpable. Extend the joy you feel when giving them gifts through Halloween and pick out a ridiculous outfit for them that will not only make you happy, but probably everyone else around you too. It's hard to resist a good costume.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Cook Bacon
If you believe that bacon is one of the world's greatest treasures, you're going to want to keep reading. While you obviously know how to make bacon (either in a skillet or in the oven), you might not realize how many other cooking methods there are that can make it even more delicious. Allow us to offer you some bacon-making inspiration from some of our favorite celebrity chefs, from brining to glazing and more. You might just find your new go-to breakfast recipe.
Ina Garten: Oven Roasted
Sometimes Ina Garten, Food Network queen, goes for simplicity over complexity, as evidenced by her oven-roasted bacon recipe. That five-star rating doesn't lie, either. If you've got store-bought applewood smoked bacon, you're just a simple technique away from perfectly crispy bacon.
Michael Symon: From Scratch
Chef Michael Symon doesn't mess around when it comes to bacon. His homemade bacon recipe starts with five pounds of skin-on pork belly, which is then coated in a spice rub and refrigerated for up to 10 days. While that seems like a lot of work, it's worth the effort if you love bacon. One commenter wrote, "This recipe rocks! It was well worth the 10 day wait. I followed it to a T and it was delicious. Better than the bacon I get from the butcher." If you've ever wanted to attempt entirely scratch-made bacon, this recipe is a keeper.
Alex Guarnaschelli: Candied
If your idea of good bacon involves sweet, salty, and sticky, you need Alex Guarnaschelli's candied bacon recipe. Thanks to a coating of finely ground black pepper and light brown sugar, the slow-roasted bacon develops a saucy coating that's finger-licking good.
Alton Brown: Brined For 3 Days
With a brine made of sugar, salt, molasses, and apple cider, Alton marinates raw pork belly for three days to achieve his Iron Chef's bacon results. Once the meat is ready, Alton's tip for baking the bacon in the oven is to line the pan with paper towels to soak up the fat and prevent smoking.
Bobby Flay: Maple-Dijon Glazed
Bobby Flay's maple-dijon- and black-pepper-glazed bacon is next level. By combining the flavors of maple syrup, dijon mustard, and smoked bacon, you'll get a sweet-salty-tangy bite that's hard to resist.
These Male Lawmakers Joked That Women Should Go to the Zoo to Get an Abortion
Posted by Dr. Bob Onder on Friday, January 9, 2015
Apparently, some male lawmakers find the fact that women's reproductive rights in the US are increasingly under fire absolutely hilarious! Two Missouri state senators joked about where women should get abortions in the state during a recent session, with one even saying that they should go to the zoo.
The exchange occurred between state Senators Bob Onder and Wayne Wallingford on April 5. It started because Onder doesn't agree with a tax hike for the St. Louis Zoo because of an ordinance that prohibits "employers and landlords from discriminating against women who have had an abortion, use contraceptives, or are pregnant," reports the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. As Onder took to the floor, he said: "The St. Louis Zoo gets inspected once a year." To that, Wallingford joked: "Maybe we should send the people that want an abortion to the St. Louis Zoo, because we know it'll be safer."
Onder didn't stop there. Instead, he mentioned how zoos require a five-day waiting period before euthanizing animals, whereas women in Missouri "only" need to wait three days after seeing a doctor to get an abortion. "Let's think about this. Babies, it's three days, so although there are members of this body who don't agree with that three days, babies are three days," Onder said. He continued with, "So, zoo animals, it couldn't be more than 24 hours, right?" After pausing, Onder said, "Five days, Senator."
Even though only a single Missouri facility remains where women can have abortions, Onder wants to make the process even more difficult. The senator has previously drafted an amendment to rename the St. Louis Zoo as "The Midwest Abortion Sanctuary City Zoological Park."
Senator Onder posted a statement to Twitter on April 6 about his comments on the zoo. In it, he says, "My discussion on the Senate floor was completely intended to shine a light on the disservice that St. Louis City did to the people of our region by banning their freedom of speech and religion in making St. Louis an abortion sanctuary city." You can read the full statement ahead.
My statement regarding amendment to rename the St. Louis Zoo. #moleg http://pic.twitter.com/25dFnGMQeu
- Bob Onder (@BobOnderMO) April 6, 2017
The internet wasn't into Onder's attempt to clarify what he meant.
@BobOnderMO Really?? Comments like that are unacceptable, everywhere. Do you talk to your wife and kids like that?? Bad.
- Renton Citizen (@rentonwa1) April 7, 2017
@BobOnderMO Just in case you missed it, this is the 21st Century. Not the 19th as you seem to think. No matter what century women aren't animals.
- Margaret Majorack (@MargaretMajorac) April 7, 2017
@BobOnderMO Pretty sad that you need to defend your statement...THAT YOU SHOULD NEVER HAVE MADE....#ignorant #moleg #GOP
- Lübester (@iugirl524) April 7, 2017
It's worth noting that Onder's words are just another tone-deaf comment from a state lawmaker on women's reproductive rights of late.
Fox News Interviewed a Witch Who Casts Monthly Spells on Trump, Because Why Not?
A recent GQ profile of Tucker Carlson described the Fox News host as the epitome of "an America divided between its best and worst selves, a place where men in Ford trucks with BENGHAZI bumper stickers get the finger from shaggy-haired Volvo drivers, only to find out their kids are on the same T-ball team." In other words, when he's working his day job hosting Tucker Carlson Tonight, he'll bite your head off if you say a single bad thing about President Donald Trump - but in his personal life, he's a pretty OK guy. Unfortunately for all of us, though, we really only see the batsh*t-crazy side on TV. On Sept. 19, though, we were given a peek at an altogether different side of Carlson: he was so baffled by his guest that he couldn't bring himself to say a single spiteful thing . . . and it was truly glorious.
The self-described "Oracle of Los Angeles," Amanda Yates Garcia, was Carlson's guest in the segment. Garcia explained that she, along with thousands of other witches across the country, were casting monthly "binding spells" (or symbolic actions) to try and protect the people they love from the harmful policies of our president. Carlson was gobsmacked. "Most people just go ahead and vote or, like, buy a t-shirt," he said. "Is this legal? Can you run around and cast spells? Are you allowed to cast spells on people? Is there any federal regulation of this?"
Garcia didn't lose her stride; instead, she immediately schooled Carlson on the meaning behind a symbolic action and why it's not something that inflicts any sort of real, tangible harm. But he had already moved on to the next thought. "I've interviewed a lot of people, but I've never interviewed a witch," he said, adding, "Sincere question: is eye of newt an actual ingredient?"
Understandably, Garcia tried to turn the conversation back to more important things - student debt, immigration, North Korea - but Carlson wasn't interested and instead continued to interrogate her on both eye of newt and the ethics of the supernatural. Here's the thing, though: it was completely earnest questioning, and not just because Carlson continuously framed his questions as "sincere," but because he seemed to be learning something new.
"You think good intentions will protect you?" Carlson asked at the end of the interview, before breaking character and answering himself. "I don't know. I don't know! It's kind of spooky, but you seem nice and I'm glad that you came on."
Watch the interview in full above and be thankful that there are only three months left of the exceedingly weird year that is 2017.
Worried About Staying Fit During the Holidays? Take Advice From Emma Stone's Trainer
There are so many temptations surrounding us during the holidays. From irresistible seasonal desserts (oh hey, pumpkin pie) to extravagant dinners with friends and family, it's hard to say no to all the yummy stuff that's put on our plate. Plus, the holidays are such a busy time that it's nearly impossible to stick with your regular workout routine.
To get a little help from the pros, POPSUGAR spoke to Jason Walsh, celebrity trainer and founder of fitness studio Rise Nation. He worked with Emma Stone for three months straight in order to prepare her to play tennis champion Billie Jean King in Battle of the Sexes, and she put on 15 pounds of muscle for the role.
Having worked with many other celebrities in the past, Jason knows what it takes to maintain your fitness routine when you've got a busy schedule. So we asked him what his best tips were for staying healthy during the holidays. His answer is like taking in a breath of fresh air.
"I'm a no-frills kind of guy. Enjoy it all!" he said. "It's a seasonal thing." You know you're just going to indulge temporarily, and you know that the holidays aren't going to last that long, so don't hold on so tightly to counting calories or running to the gym every free moment you have. Concentrate on soaking up all the joy around you.
Jason said he naturally spends less time outside during the winter and more time in the gym, because that's just how the weather treats you during this time of year. So take advantage of that fact, and use this time to develop your muscles. "Get as strong as you possibly can because you have a great excuse to be in the gym," he told POPSUGAR. "Gain some weight!"
You know already that you have to eat more calories if you want to grow a booty, so since you've got so much yummy food around you, eat some of it, and then go to the gym and lift heavy weights.
According to Jason, your diet will naturally clean up once the holidays are over, so don't worry too much about treating yourself to that pumpkin pie and ice cream.
These 8 False Eyelashes Will Make Your Halloween Costume Complete
Halloween is every beauty junkie's favorite holiday due to the mass amount of makeup looks we can play with. This spooky season, try elevating your costume to the next level by incorporating false lashes into your look.
Whether you're going as a black swan, sexy cat, or disco star, there is a set of over-the-top lashes that will suit your costume needs.
If you're new to false lashes, Halloween is the perfect time to try them out. Use our handy guide to make sure they stay on all night, and then read on to find the perfect falsies for your costume.
15 Italian Cooking Secrets That Will Change Your Life
The beauty of learning how to cook Italian food the right way is that you don't have to go to a restaurant every time the craving strikes. From making the perfect pasta to having the essential pantry staples on hand, there are a few secrets Italian cooks always have up their sleeves that come in handy in the kitchen. To perfect your own skills, transport yourself to Italy by following these 15 cooking tips that Italians swear by.
Brace Your Taste Buds! Sriracha Seasoning Stix Have Arrived
From Huy Fong Foods and Sugarmade comes Sriracha Seasoning Stix - an exciting new product that makes it easier than ever to give all of your food that inimitable taste of sriracha. The solid sticks are meant to be conveniently and simultaneously cooked with meat, fish, or poultry for added flavor and heat.
Want some more good news? The sticks won't just be limited to the classic sriracha flavor. They'll also be releasing sriracha butter garlic sticks, sriracha garlic jalapeño sticks, and so-called Blend X sticks, which are meant to be especially bold.
In a press statement, Sugarmade CEO Jimmy Chan said, "Sriracha Seasoning Stix are a true culinary seasoning revolution enabling anyone to quickly and easily enjoy that great Sriracha flavor in a new way." Chan also said they are currently exploring additional flavors. The initial four flavors are officially available online for $9 each.
White Pumpkin Pie M&M's Taste Exactly Like Cinnamon Rolls
A pumpkin-pie-flavored candy could go one of two ways, so we were a little nervous to try White Pumpkin Pie M&M's. The new, seasonal flavor has arrived just in time for Fall and Halloween, and in the spirit of all things pumpkin spice, we tried the candy as soon as we were able to get our hands on one of the festive packages. Not everyone who participated in this POPSUGAR taste test is a fan of either pumpkin spice or white chocolate, but we took one for the team and crunched right into the hard candy shells filled with white chocolate and pumpkin pie flavors. And let's not confuse these with Pumpkin Spice M&M's and Pumpkin Spice Latte M&M's from years past. These are entirely new and are available now in stores including Walmart and Target for $3 per bag.
So what do these M&M's actually taste like? The verdict, is M&M's totally nailed it with this flavor, and the bite-size candies taste exactly like pumpkin pie. Despite the fact that we know the candy is artificially flavored - it says it right there on the bag - we didn't taste any chemical-like, artificial aftertaste as we have with other M&M's flavors. The white chocolate base gives the M&M's an almost pumpkin-cheesecake-like flavor, and we definitely get hints of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. We bet these would taste fantastic frozen, as well as in Fall desserts like pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.
Here's a sampling of our reviews to give you a better idea of how people really felt about these M&M's.
- "I usually hate white chocolate, but these are a delight."
- "Dang, these taste just like pie. Color me impressed."
- "Subtle pumpkin flavor. You can definitely taste the white chocolate."
- "They taste like a cinnamon bun!"
- "Took me a while to taste the pumpkin, but they're not bad!"
If you're already dreaming about filling bowls in your kitchen with this limited-edition M&M's flavor, do yourself a favor and stock up! You just might be able to get away with serving these for dessert instead of homemade pumpkin pie.
50 Long-Buried Memories About the Halloween Movies From Your Childhood
Every time Halloween rolls around, movie-lovers lose their sh*t over Hocus Pocus again - and with good reason. But what about the other iconic Halloween movies from our childhoods? Why doesn't anybody ever show any love to Halloween Town 2: Kalabar's Revenge or The Little Vampire, and why is Addams Family Values always swept under the rug? Well, we won't stand for it anymore; and neither, it seems, will Twitter. People have taken to social media to reminisce about their favorite nostalgic Halloween movies, from Disney Channel Originals to Mary-Kate and Ashley classics.
Trust us when we say that these long-buried Halloween movie memories are a wild ride of '90s and early-2000s nostalgia - and they'll make you want a movie marathon ASAP.
16 Demi Lovato Costume Ideas That Will Make You Cool For Halloween
We've loved Demi Lovato since her early Disney Channel days, but she's gone through a total transformation to become the superstar she is now. Through the years, her confidence has only gotten stronger, and it's evident in her new provocative lyrics and crazy-sexy outfits.
She's not afraid to show off her curvy body and show a little skin with edgy, revealing looks. That's why we're so inspired to take a play from Demi's book and sport one of her daring looks this Halloween. Whether you're looking for a bombshell beautiful costume or something a little more dark and striking, you can look to the singer for some inspiration.
- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez
The Top Gluten-Free Cereals to Keep in Your Pantry
Many people can pour a big bowl of cereal for breakfast without thinking twice. But for those with a gluten allergy or sensitivity, it's not as easy. While there are plenty of homemade gluten-free recipes you can take the time to cook up, certain mornings call for a healthy breakfast that's quick and satisfying. If a good old bowl of cereal is what you're craving, reach for one of these gluten-free approved boxes.
- Additional reporting by Lizzie Fuhr
15 Halloween Costumes to Make From a Cardboard Box
Thinking of your child's next Halloween costume with him is fun and exciting, and along with awesome handmade costume options and go-to choices from big-box stores, you can also get crafty and make your own from something you probably have hanging out in the garage: a cardboard box!
These box costumes definitely stand out from the rest and are easier to put together than you think. Along with being really special, these costumes are eco-friendly and a great way to repurpose materials you already have hanging around the house into something way cooler for Halloween.
Read through for 15 cardboard-box costume inspirations.
Raised on Promises: Tom Petty, Las Vegas, and Talking to Kids About Death
I told my kids that Tom Petty died this morning. I spent most of the day yesterday wondering if I should talk to them about the massacre in Las Vegas, and if so, how on earth to go about it. My boys are 5 and 6 and still mostly unsullied by the real evils of this world. The oldest asked me if robbers were real the other day, and I saw him lose a shred of innocence as he processed my answer that yes, robbers are real.
I've been unplanned and selfish in how I've talked with my kids about death. All four of their grandparents are still alive, and aside from Mr. Redfish, the goldfish that lived happily in a bowl by the kitchen sink for more than three years, they have not encountered death in their little lives yet. I've told them people don't die until they're at least 100, which I know is stupid at best and harmful at worst, but the truth is that my dad is 74 and I am physically incapable of thinking that thought (you know the one), much less watching my children think that thought. The truth is that no one in that crowd in Las Vegas made it to 100, and some of them were just children. Lying to my kids about death is as much about attempting to protect myself as it is about preserving their innocence as long as I can.
The music of Tom Petty has been an immeasurable gift in my life. I'm not unique in that - it's an embarrassingly ubiquitous sentiment, made even more cliché by declaring it the day after his passing. But it's the truth. The lyrics, the guitar riffs, the Americana of it all - these are the reasons we all loved Petty's music.
It was a pillar in the anthology of the music I was raised on. I knew the lyrics to "Mary Jane's Last Dance" before I knew what Mary Jane meant, and my parents never made mention of me singing, "Oh my my, oh hell yes" as a child, apparently honoring an unspoken Tom Petty loophole in their normally strict code of conduct. "Yer So Bad" was practically a family anthem, sung around campfires and in cars and in the kitchen while my dad did the dinner dishes, often with an exaggerated point in each others' direction to accompany the lyric, "I've got you to save me."
My kids will have a similar story to tell one day, of hearing Tom Petty sing the song of their parents' lives, and maybe their own, against a backdrop of their own everyday American lives; around campfires and in cars and at kitchen sinks.
When my son asked to listen to the Moana soundtrack on the way to school this morning, I told him we'd still be listening to Tom Petty all day today, just like we did yesterday. And then I just said it: "Tom Petty died yesterday, you guys. The guy singing these songs is no longer alive now."
"It strikes me as especially heartbreaking to be talking about death with people sitting in car seats."
"He was very old," I tell them, wondering when I'll have the guts to stop lying to my kids about death and when I'm even supposed to.
"How old was he?" I'm caught. Younger than their grandpa. How do I tell them the truth when the truth might pull the rug right out from underneath them? I drive a block in silence. "I Won't Back Down" plays in the background. I always tell my sons it's a song they'll need to learn one day, so strong-willed and confident, just like them.
"He was 66."
It hangs in the air for a minute. I try to see their faces in the rear-view mirror. They are in car seats, and it strikes me as especially heartbreaking to be talking about death with people sitting in car seats. "But his heart was sick," I add, hoping to intercept the follow-up questions I know I'm not prepared to answer. "He lived such a big life, making all that music for so many years; his heart was actually 100."
"And now he's dead?"
"Yeah. Now he's dead. But we'll have his songs forever."
They are quiet for a minute. My mind races will all the possibilities of what they're thinking, what damage I've done both by lying and by telling the truth, what question they might ask next, when I'll have to say the word "massacre" out loud to them for the first time, how lucky I am that I haven't been forced to yet the way 58 families in Las Vegas have.
My Spotify playlist has moved onto "Wildflowers." "Far away from your trouble and worries," Petty sings, "You belong somewhere you feel free."
"Hey mom?" my 6-year-old asks. I involuntarily take a deep breath, bracing myself for his question. "Yeah buddy?"
"Will you turn it up?"
How Old Is the Cast of Riverdale in Real Life? Let's Break It Down
Since Riverdale premiered on The CW, its undeniably attractive cast has kept our eyes glued to our screens as angsty teenage relationships have formed and mind-blowing plot twists have dropped. Though the show's characters are meant to be high school sophomores between the ages of 15 and 16 (except Cheryl, who is 17 years old), the actors are actually much older in real life. Spoiler alert: learning KJ Apa's real age may or may not make you feel slightly creepy for having such a passionate obsession with him (and his mesmerizing abs). As we not-so-patiently await season two, read on to learn more about the stars behind your favorite Riverdale characters.
I'm a Financial Advisor - and I Rent My Home and Lease My Car
Renee Cohen is a financial advisor whose mission is for you to love your money story.
As a successful woman in my 30s, people are often surprised to learn that my car is leased and my home is rented - especially when they find out I'm a professional financial advisor.
I am very open with my personal philosophies and my own personal financial journey with clients. When it comes to financial planning and goal-setting, everyone's situation is different. You've got to evaluate all the pieces around you to ask: "What is the best fit for me?" And for me, personally, home ownership is not something I strive for at this present time. I prefer to build my assets in other ways.
I'm definitely not against home ownership. But you don't have to own just because society says you have to own. It's OK to rent!
Why Owning Isn't Everything
My philosophy has always been that real estate is a great piece to have in your overall portfolio, but it's not the only thing to have. So many people have tunnel vision about real estate being a great asset. And it is! There are tax deductions that go along with it. But there are also a lot of complications that go along with it. And that's beyond just saving for the down payment. When you own a house, everything else is on you.
When I talk to people about saving for a house, we can't just talk about the 100 grand that you want to put down. What about that question for the plumber? When you need a painter? Furnishing the house? Most people are not going to just take all their furniture from their one-bedroom apartment into a home and call it a day.
Our generation is redefining the American dream.
Bottom line? You don't want to become house poor. I've had some clients who are now pinching pennies because they pulled the trigger on buying a property - that million-dollar condo that's not going to be their forever home - and now they're pinching pennies in other capacities. They're not diversifying their portfolio. They're not building meaningful savings.
I also live and work in LA, where real estate is notoriously expensive, which is important for people to keep in mind. Many of us saw our parents' generation get married, have kids, and buy a home. But I think our generation is redefining the American dream - especially in a market where our dollar obviously doesn't go as far as it used to.
Other Places to Save
As an advisor, I look at assets in four to five main buckets. One bucket is cash: a good emergency fund that could cover you for about six months. The second bucket is a tax-deductible bucket - a 401(k) or Traditional IRA. The third bucket is a taxable bucket, which includes nonqualified investments for your mid- to long-term goals because you don't want money sitting on the sideline in cash. You want to have some opportunity for growth relative to your risk tolerance. The fourth bucket is a tax-free bucket - the most common vehicle is a Roth IRA, but there are income restrictions, so it is important to understand how to build that bucket when you don't qualify. And a fifth bucket is real estate.
But real estate is not a liquid asset. In an emergency, what if you don't have an emergency fund and all your money is also locked up in a 401(k) or real estate?
Why I Love Leasing
My initial conversation with clients is understanding their why. What's the why? What really drives and motivates them? What's important to them in the long term? And then I can connect their "whats" and build a plan around that. But I always joke that the plan is like a car: because as soon as we're done with the meeting, it changes. It's like buying a car - as soon as you drive off, it depreciates.
In my own personal life, one thing that I love is having a new car every year. So I lease my car. I've always factored a car payment into my budget, and I'd much rather have one and be able to drive to the dealership if something goes wrong or turn it in when I want. I don't want to deal with having to sell a car. And I won't benefit from purchasing when I'm planning to get a newer vehicle so often.
The Healthiest Strategy
We should all be architects of our own financial lives based on our own personal goals and philosophies. Maybe real estate isn't right for someone. And if I'm advising women, let's talk about family life and work. Do you want to have kids? Do you want to freeze your eggs? Let's talk about the costs associated with that. There's traditional and there's nontraditional, and that's fine, and it could change for you.
As women, we want to be empowered, financially - where we're not having to make personal and professional decisions because we're beholden to the financial part of our lives. That's where I really like to help women understand all the dynamics, so we can be empowered. And that means something different to everyone.
- As told to Lindsay Miller
260 Mexican Recipes You Need to Master
If you find yourself uttering the phrase "I love Mexican food" more than once a week, join our club. What's not to love, really? The delicious options seem endless. There are tacos, burritos, quesadillas, taquitos, tostadas - all waiting to be filled with things like tinga chicken, pulled pork, shredded beef, and even veggies like mushrooms and elote. And then, of course, there are nachos, bowls, and salads - all begging to be sprinkled with cotija cheese and salsas. And we don't even have to tell you about guacamole and margaritas, of course.
Straight ahead you'll find 260 iterations of all your favorites; basically an excuse for you to eat Mexican food today and every day. It's the holy grail of Mexican recipes!
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How Chris Hemsworth's Career Put a Strain on His Marriage to Elsa Pataky
Chris Hemsworth and Elsa Pataky have been married for almost seven years and have three kids together - and in a recent interview with GQ Australia, the Aussie actor is opening up about the price his fame has cost his personal life. The moment the 34-year-old took on the role of Thor, his career catapulted, but it also put a strain on his marriage.
"My wife and I fell in love, had kids, didn't really see each other for a few years, then fell back in love," he said. "In terms of work, she's certainly given up more than I have. She'd like me to step back and be at home with the kids more, and of course, I want that too. But I feel like I'm at this crucial point in my career - I've just got to set up for longevity or I'll slip off."
One thing Elsa and Chris do to keep the spark alive is take time for each other away from their kids. "Once you have children, every instinct and every moment of your time is consumed by that. You've got nothing for each other - so make sure you have date night even if it's once in a blue moon, because most of the time you're just too tired and you'd actually prefer to sleep." Since the two got married in 2010, Chris has continued to play Thor and starred in other blockbuster hits like Snow White and the Huntsman and the Avengers installments while Elsa has been in The Fast & Furious movies and launched a collection of affordable sunglasses with the brand Clandestine.
1 Mom Explains Why It's Important to "Brave the Fear" After the Las Vegas Tragedy
After hearing the news about the Las Vegas shootings, Lauren Eberspacher shared how important it is to teach children not to hide from the world, even during such tragic times, in a poignant Facebook post.
I sit here and silently cry as I rock my sweet baby. How am I supposed to raise him and his two sisters up to leave our home and go into such a scary world? Can't I just keep them inside of these four walls forever? Then nothing bad will ever happen to them. I am their mama, their protector. It's my deepest desire to keep them safe. But it's also my job to teach them how to be life changers, helpers, and givers of grace. It's my job to teach them to how love in a world that is so scary. And I can't do that by hiding them from the scary.
She also reminds parents that living your life in constant fear isn't really living at all - and their children need to know that.
"And so we continue to go out into the world and brave the fear," she said. "We will go to concerts and theme parks and malls and fly in airplanes. They will grow up and have dreams of becoming teachers and nurses and law makers and ballerinas and farmers and maybe one day even mamas and papas themselves."
While it can be hard to admit, Eberspacher makes an important point about the nature of the world we live in: "It's not going to get any better this side of heaven, friends. There will always be pain, there will always be death. But that doesn't mean that we sit and hide inside our four walls . . . And we raise our children to be loved and tell of blessed assurance in a world of fear."
The bottom line: the best thing you can do is live your life - and make sure your children do the same.
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