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 20 décembre 2017

20 Stylish AND Affordable Watches - Just in Time For the Holidays

When the big hand's on nine and the little hand's on six, what time is it? Trick question, because no matter what hour it is, when it's already mid-December, every minute is holiday shopping time in our book.

The countdown is on for gift-giving, and one present that will last far into the future is a stylish watch. Whether the recipient's taste runs sporty, glamorous, or minimalist, there's a surprisingly inexpensive and fitting pick on our list of 20.

Facebook's Newest Feature Is All About Getting to Know Your Friends Better

Facebook constantly tests and launches new functions across the massive platform on what feels like a near-daily basis. Despite that fact, it's not all that common that the social media network adds a new function directly into our personal profiles. But on Dec. 5, that's exactly what Facebook did with its newest feature - and it's one that has the most social additions to the platform in years.

Did You Know seeks to let users share thoughtful, personal details with their friends according to prompts that are raised in the app and on Facebook.com. Questions about preferred superpowers, guilty pleasures, hidden talents, and secret loyalties are interwoven with more lighthearted questions about what it is one might do if they were to win the lottery. The feature not only populates in the News Feed, but it also shows up in a brand-new box below the photos on a user's profile - and while you can of course choose to opt out of having these shared with your friends, the idea is to help you get to know your social friends a little better.

The feature is live now and easy to access using your mobile phone or browser. Just click into your personal profile, and then tap on the Did You Know section - from there, you'll be able to tap through the questions that are available to you at this stage. You can also access Did You Know by clicking the "Try It" button on a friend's post - and of course, you can use those funky new backgrounds we're all loving so much to spice up the post when you set it to go live.

So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to Facebook and get answering those questions, and while you're at it, be sure to update your Facebook profile anyway - it's probably been far too long since you did that.

11 Supersimple Ways to Make Your Home Smell So Fresh and So Clean

Have you ever come home from a long day of work, stepped through your door, and noticed that your home smells a little musty? Between lingering food smells from the kitchen, damp towels in the bathroom, and other day-to-day activities, there are lots of things that contribute to your home smelling a little less than fresh. It happens to the best of us, but luckily it's an easy fix! DIY air fresheners, houseplants aplenty, and some essential cleaning tips are some of our favorite ways to get a fresh home that smells amazing.

The Most Important Thing I Learned Spending a Week Alone in Uzbekistan

For many years, I have had an academic, professional, and personal focus on the post-Soviet political space, with a particular interest in the five Central Asian states, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Central Asia is a region located to the south of Russia, west of China, north of Afghanistan, and east of the Caspian Sea. If you are prone to falling into Wikipedia rabbit holes and enjoy learning about obscure cultures and places like I am, Google cautiously, because I am here to tell you you'll get sucked in.

In May 2016, two weeks after walking across the stage to collect my college diploma, I was boarding a plane to Astana, Kazakhstan, to attend a two-month Russian and Eurasian studies program hosted by Nazarbayev University. In many ways, I decided to do this program because I knew I needed to get my foot in the door in Central Asia, and that's exactly what I did. I arrived in Kazakhstan not knowing a word of Russian, a language I was theoretically there to study at an intensive level, nor did I know a single soul or have any experience in this part of the world. After the conclusion of my program, equipped with a beginner's level of Russian, I set off for Kazakhstan's neighbor to the south, Kyrgyzstan. I did some traveling and had some amazing experiences, but eventually it was time to go home.

I returned to New York in late July, in many ways struggling to digest my recent experiences and faced with the reality of establishing my postcollege "adult" life. A year elapsed, during which I found employment, an internship where I first began to write about Central Asia, moved out, and then moved back home, attempted to join the foreign service, cultivated new relationships, and struggled through many months of uncertainty, confusion, and general anxiety due to not knowing what I should be doing with my life. I decided that the best way to shake off this funk and gain some perspective was to find a way to get back to Central Asia over the Summer, while I had less work responsibilities.

Against a different background and out of context, I learned some valuable lessons about myself.

On my second trip to this part of the world, I was determined to not let the wonders of Uzbekistan evade me. I had arranged for a month of Russian lessons and an internship at the American University of Central Asia in Bishkek, the sleepy but charming capital city of Kyrgyzstan. I booked a one-way ticket, optimistic that the weeks following the end of my classes and internship would lend themselves to a travel adventure of some sort. There were a million places I wanted to visit in those weeks, as I was in close proximity to places that were normally very, very far away when I was home in New York. But my heart was on Uzbekistan, which happens to be one of the more inaccessible countries in the region. Bogged down by the confusing intricacies of a corrupt and overly bureaucratic visa process, I had neglected to pay a visit to the Uzbek embassy located in NYC before departing (I swear it was on my to-do list . . .). I knew getting my visa wasn't going to be easy, but I reasoned with myself it would be easier to obtain when applying from the embassy in Bishkek as opposed to back in the USA.

I will spare you the details, but after a few weeks of embassy visits, walks down the highway searching for a bank, hours waiting in a half-shaded courtyard in the Summer heat outside the visa office, urgent withdrawals of stacks of local currency, and many, many frustrating communication-related issues, I was the proud owner of a full-page visa from the Government of Uzbekistan granting me a one-month stay in its country. I worked out an itinerary, hitting four cities spread throughout the country, made some essential arrangements, and that was that.

I'll admit, I was nervous. I didn't know how this was going to play out, only that I was hoping for the best. To traverse a foreign country by myself, one where I knew I would stand out and be in the minority as a Western woman traveling alone who didn't effectively speak the language and was far removed from any comparable experiences I had had before, wasn't my first choice. I would have loved the security of a travel companion, maybe someone who could help me communicate, but at that point in time, it wasn't in the cards. I had a decision to make; was I going to put this dream on hold to wait for the right conditions or just do it? I decided this was my shot, and I was going to take it.

I planned to spend my time in four cities called Tashkent, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva. I flew into Tashkent, the capital and largest city in Uzbekistan, and marveled at its size and impressive infrastructure. I buzzed along the underground in a well-working subway system that mimicked Moscow's world-famous metro system, visiting huge bazaars and taking long walks around neighborhoods that alternated between old and modern every few feet. A short flight took me to Urgench, the metropolitan hub for the ancient city of Khiva. Arriving at sunset, I strolled along the ancient walled city, Itchan Kala, which once was the epicenter of the Khanate of Khiva in the 17th century. I traveled by taxi to my next stop, Bukhara, a journey that took five hours through the Uzbek desert in a car with no air conditioning, making mental notes to avoid a similar passage next time around. Bukhara greeted me with open arms, a city said to have been inhabited since the 6th century BCE, the winding streets of its old city softly shrouded in late-afternoon light. I caught a high-speed train and was comfortably transported to Samarkand. My accommodations placed me within eyeshot of the Registan, a collection of three ornate, mosaic-adorned schools of Islamic study called madrasas, which formed the town square of ancient Samarkand.

It is possibly one of the grandest sights on this planet.

The stories I could tell about the kind and helpful people I met during this week could fill a book. From the jewelry seller who ended up taking me on an hour-long walking tour of Bukhara en route to the city's only ATM to the friend of a friend who arrived with her family to collect me at the airport when I first arrived in Uzbekistan to the countless hostel employees who helped me to arrange my many domestic trips utilizing different modes of transportation, the people of Uzbekistan proved to be some of the nicest I have ever met in my life. I was consistently humbled by these acts of kindness, more reassured every day that I had made the right decision.

Oftentimes, people tell me that I'm brave or ask me if I'm crazy, and the answer is probably both. I don't know what it is or why I have it, but there is something deep inside of me that pushes me to seek more, take risks, and do the things I am drawn to on a subconscious level. I am not afraid. I place a lot of faith, some of it blind, in the good of the world and the human connections we inherently have regardless of creed or color. I learn more about myself in these relatively short time frames than I have in many years of time spent on this earth. Against a different background and out of context, I learned some valuable lessons about myself. I can absolutely do anything I set my mind to. I am not alone in this reality. I am any girl off the street; there is nothing specific about me that enables to have these experiences that differentiates me from anyone else. We are all brave, fearless, resilient, adventurous, and capable.

In my second-to-last city in Uzbekistan, I was checking into a lovely family-owned hostel. The man who was checking me in asked if I was traveling alone. I said yes, and he responded with slight shock that I was a "strong woman" for doing this. I was accustomed to these types of questions, as it was rare for a woman to be traveling alone in these parts. I immediately fired back a self-deprecating response to deflect from the compliment I had received, something I think as women we are conditioned to do. But as I lay in my bed that night and mulled over the day, I reflected on that exchange. Yes, I am a strong woman, and this strong woman is here to stay.

41 Things That Prove Tech in the '90s Was Bomb.com

Shame on the people who make fun of '90s tech (it's not like we've ever done that before - ever). Seriously, who could question how great the Discman or AIM was? For the ultimate tech throwback, take a look at the gadgets, games, and software that we loved most from the decade that brought us Spice Girls and Super Nintendo.

9 Scented Candles Interior Designers Always Buy

Candles may as well be currency in the interior-design world. Interior designers use them as the final touch to a room, the one that elevates a space to the next sensory level. We mortals love them too but have a hard time knowing where to start.

To help you wade through the morass, we rounded up our favorites. Psst - they are also on every interior designer's list!

Get ready to buy matches in bulk.

The 21 Best Smart Home Devices of 2017

This was the year that I discovered just how glorious a smart home can be, and luckily, it was also a year in which some of the most innovative devices made their debut. From lights to music to fitness and more, ahead, I've highlighted the 21 devices that really changed my life this year. And the best part? Each and every one of these items is perfect for gifting and requires no knowledge or existing products to become the centerpiece of your loved one's smart home.

The 19 Best Tech Accessories of 2017

The most wonderful time of the year has finally arrived, and we couldn't be more excited to bust out our festive sweaters and bask in good holiday cheer. But there's one thing that's got to be done before anyone's able to truly unwind, and that's buying the perfect present for each and every loved one on your list. To make that process ever-so-slightly easier, we've pulled together our favorite tech accessories of the year. . . all of which are perfect for gifting. From chargers to speakers to quirky accessories, ahead you'll find 19 items that are sure to please - and, of course, will free you up to start making the most out of the holiday season.

Amnesty International joins call for Delilah Saunders to be put on liver transplant list

Save Delilah

Supporters of a Labrador Inuk woman denied access to a liver transplant waitlist because of alcohol abuse rallied at Confederation Building in St. John's Friday.

Tentative plea deal reached for Winnipeg-based pharmacy accused of selling counterfeit cancer drugs

Kris Thorkelson

The agreement, which still has to be approved by a U.S. district court in Montana, would see Canada Drugs and two subsidiaries plead guilty, pay a $5 million US fine and forfeit $29 million US.

Judge temporarily blocks new Trump rules on birth control

hi-birth-control-pill-852-c

A federal judge in Philadelphia has ordered the Trump administration not to enforce new rules that could significantly reduce women's access to free birth control.

All the Marvel Characters Who Are For SURE in Avengers: Infinity War

This week, the internet promptly descended into chaos when Marvel dropped the first trailer for Avengers: Infinity War. While there are plenty of details to parse out from the 2-minute teaser, there's also a fun game to play: how many Marvel characters can you count before the screen smashes to black? In 2016, the writers revealed that there are up to 67 "available" characters that have appeared in prior Marvel movies, and that's not even counting the new characters they might introduce. While the writers said not all of these heroes will appear, it's still safe to assume the number will be very large. Here's who we spotted in just the first trailer alone.

mardi 19 décembre 2017

27 Unique Gift Ideas For the Kid Who Has Everything

Shopping for kids can be deceivingly stressful. If you have a little one on your list who pretty much already owns everything they could possibly want, picking out an exciting gift is a difficult task. Instead of risking a movie, doll, or video game that they most likely already own, opt for a unique gift that they'll be thrilled to open. From educational-yet-cool toys that teach them how to code and create 3D artwork to kid-friendly bath bombs with Pokémon surprises, these unusual yet creative gifts will bring them smiles without making you worry whether they've already got it buried in their closet.


- Additional reporting by Lauren Levy

The Best Gifts For 9-Year-Olds

The 9-year-old on your list is precariously straddling the line between kid and tween. That's why we've rounded up our favorite toys to help him feel like he's making progress - but not leaving the toy world completely behind. From cozy socks that double as slippers to toys that interact with smartphones and gaming devices, here are our favorite picks for 9-year-olds.

A New Cirque du Soleil Show Is Coming to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World!

All good things must come to an end, and that means the "La Nouba" by Cirque du Soleil show at Walt Disney World Resort's Disney Springs. Earlier this year, the company announced that the attraction would be closing its curtains on New Year's Eve. So what's next? Something exciting, of course! Disney just announced that a new Cirque du Soleil show is in the works.

Speaking of the future of relationship between Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, the company promised an awesome upcoming collaboration. "The new original show will be created by Cirque du Soleil and will pay homage to Disney's rich history of animation, with a vivid story told in a way that only Cirque du Soleil can deliver," says Disney.

Daniel Lamarre, president and CEO of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, said that the company is "incredibly inspired by Disney's immense creative universe" and that plans to "bring Disney's magic to life on stage will touch audiences and bring them back to their childhood."

There's no set opening date yet, but stay tuned for more details on what the show will entail and when you can get tickets to see it!

The Best 2017 Gifts For Teens

When it's time to give a teen a gift, it's easy to write a check and call it a day. While they'll love the money, opening a card is not nearly as exciting as unwrapping a gift. From iPhone accessories to must-have fashion pieces, these presents will please even the pickiest teens.

Get Comfortable: We Found 80 Perfect Presents For Every Woman in Your Life

Put that mug of hot chocolate down! It's time to get to the real business of the holidays: Christmas shopping. We know it can be hard to find presents for the women in your life, so that's why we created the ultimate gift guide for you to browse through. These items are excellent for mothers, grandmothers, sisters, BFFs, friends, and any other gal you know. Whether she's a fashion girl, couch potato, techie, or makeup maven, we have something she'll be thrilled to receive. You don't even have to get out of your pajamas to look through these goodies; they're all available to purchase online. Let's get going!

Dear Firstborn, This Is My Biggest Parenting Regret

Dear Firstborn,

I have regrets. You'll have them, too, someday. We all do. Once you become a parent, these regrets may swirl around your head like a black fly refusing to buzz away.

You made me a mother. You poured more love into my heart than I ever thought possible. When you were a baby, your sweet coos from the monitor woke me each morning. I clutched the covers to my chin and thanked God for you while I listened a little longer. Then, I skipped to your crib, our dark eyes met, and the corners of our lips magnetically went upward.

I had high expectations from even those early days. As my firstborn, you would be perfect. You'd sleep through the night, walk before age 1, learn your ABCs, potty-train, and even start simple addition. As a teacher, I'd shape you like the Play-Doh in your chubby fingers. And now, just like that, you're in kindergarten. And things aren't perfect - you're not perfect. Sometimes the disappointment you feel bears down on you, and I take responsibility for that.

I regret climbing a ladder and placing you high on that pedestal. Turns out, kindergarten is hard. You come home with dark circles under your eyes, tired of working both your body and brain. At 5 years old, stress is clenched in your fists. I know you're not taking it out on me. You can't help it.

Now someone else is teaching you. It's my turn to love you only - no more teaching. When you get home from school, it will be no homework, no pushing you to do anything more. It's time to connect through touch, a game of war, and a book, if you're up to it.

Sweet firstborn, it was my job to prepare you for school, but I regret putting pressure on you to only succeed. That's impossible. Humans fail, but then we get up.

From here on out, I will encourage you and still push you when you need it, but I've taken you down from that pedestal, knowing that it will hurt more when you fall from the top. You can make it back up there on your own; you don't need your mother delicately placing you there. Parenting you is the greatest accomplishment of my life, even with that black fly of regret circling my head, and although you're not perfect, you're perfect as my son.

I love you,

Mom

40 Toys Your Kids Will Be Obsessed With This Year

This year is shaping up to be a golden age of toys, where every personality can find something to play with. Children have the option of interacting with their favorite characters, learning a new skill, getting ready for school, indulging their artistic sides, and so much more. STEM continues to be a big trend, and thankfully even baby toys are getting in on the educational action. No matter the age of your kid, there is a toy on this list that's certain to please, entertain, and educate.

Infuriated by His Daughter's Sexist School Activities, This Dad Wrote a Letter About "Gender Lines"

A dad in New South Wales, Australia, made sure his opinion was heard after his daughter told him about the sexism she experienced at school. The dad, Stephen Callaghan, wrote a letter to his daughter Ruby's school after she explained the gender-specific activities planned as a celebration for her year-six graduation. The girls were scheduled to get their hair and makeup done in the school library, and the boys were to be sent on a trip to Bunnings, a hardware-store chain. Stephen didn't find it very appropriate to divide the celebratory activities in such a clear way - who's assuming all the girls want hair and makeup done and wouldn't prefer to go to the store?

In a letter to the principal that Stephen shared on Twitter, he wrote, "When Ruby left for school yesterday it was 2017, but when she returned home in the afternoon she was from 1968." After explaining the activities Ruby informed him about, he continued to sarcastically ask, "Are you able to search the school buildings for a space-time continuum? Perhaps there is a faulty Flux Capacitor hidden away in the girls toilet block?" referencing Back to the Future. In a separate tweet, Stephen mentioned his daughter wants to be an engineer and doesn't "give a rat's arse about make-up."

Many people responding to the tweets seem to have had similar experiences with their kids. Here's hoping the dad's letter doesn't go unanswered.

11 Grocery Items You Can Have Delivered Right to Your Door With Amazon Now

If you're a member of Amazon Prime, there are so many perks to take advantage of, and one thing you should try (if you haven't already) is Amazon Now. Simply type in your zip code and you can order right to your doorstep within just a few hours. Although the choices may vary per city, you won't have a problem finding what you want. So if you're in need of some last-minute cooking items or you're sick and don't want to leave the house, this is the perfect service for you.

Expect to find everything from suitcases to electronics, toys, fresh food, alcohol, and so much more. To give you an idea of how much easier this can make your grocery shopping, we rounded up a list of products that you no longer need to leave the house for. Check it out.

11 Fun Gifts For 2-Year-Olds - All Under $25

Stumped on what to get your kid this year? Join the club. It can be tricky to find new toys your child doesn't already have, especially at affordable prices. That's why we created the ultimate gift guide for 2-year-olds. These presents are intended for that age group, and they have low prices. Take a look at these fun choices, and get them for the holiday season. Any child would be thrilled to find these items under the tree.

7 Genius Tech Gifts That Will Make Mom's Life Easier

If you're a mom who is constantly busy or on the go (OK, so that's every mom), you need products that will make your life easier. Luckily, there are many tech gadgets out there that are intended to save you time and energy. With the holidays coming up, these products are perfect for mothers who need a little extra help. Spouses, kids, and friends, listen up! These are the items your mom will be thrilled to unwrap. We curated a list of the coolest tech presents that will truly make life better. They come at a variety of price points, so you're bound to find something perfect. Stop stalling and start shopping!

This Is the One and Only Natilla Recipe You'll Need This Holiday Season

11 Perfect Gifts For Busy People

Time is such a precious gift, because it's a commodity that you can't buy . . . or so you think! We've found several gifts that will "buy" the recipient some time - they will be the perfect holiday treat for every busy professional. Check out this time-saving list that ranges from the budget savvy to the lavish.

- Additional reporting by Emily Co

A Look at Wilmer Valderrama's (Long) Dating History

Wilmer Valderrama first entered our lives as Fez on That '70s Show and even back then, he was a total lady killer (on and off screen). Throughout his career, the 37-year-old has been linked to many famous women (most way younger than him), and one in particular that no one will ever forget - is it bad we are still hoping that Wilmer and Demi get back together? From being engaged just a couple of months after starting a relationship with Lindsay Lohan to his other long-term girlfriends, her are the ladies whom Wilmer has dated before.

14 Novela Theme Songs That You Will Never (Ever!) Forget

When we think of heartbreak songs, we don't think Taylor Swift, we think telenovelas. Some of the best love songs out there came into our lives during the 30-second credits before a novela - classics like "Quinceañera" and "Te Quiero Tanto, Tanto" that are played over and over at family get-togethers and have a permanent spot in our playlists.

And that's because these tunes so perfectly described the crazy ups and downs that our favorite protagonists went through as we watched day after day, glued to the TV, going through our own set of relationship milestones IRL. Keep scrolling for some of our favorite dramatic and catchy telenovela theme songs, then check out the ultimate '90s and 2000s Latin playlist.

If We Looked This Sexy in Alessandra Ambrosio's Bikini, We'd Be Staring at Ourselves Too

Alessandra Ambrosio, who just took her last walk down the famed Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway, was seen enjoying some R&R in Florianópolis, Brazil. The first thing that came to our mind when we saw the model's red-hot bikini was that she could easily pass as a Bond girl. Alessandra's sexy two-piece featured a knotted front detail that made it look like she was wearing a tied-up tank top. Keep reading to have a look at her smokin' hot bikini and buy similar styles for your swimsuit collection.

These Sexy Instagrams of Christina Aguilera Prove That She'll Always Be Xtina

There's no denying that Christina Aguilera's "Dirrty" days alter ego, Xtina, is an icon. But we're here to tell you that no matter how many years have gone by since Christina put on those assless chaps - for the record, it's been 15 years - she'll always be Xtina, at least from what we can tell by looking at her Instagram.

The singer, mom of two, and The Voice judge looks hotter by the minute, most recently showing off her curves in a Fourth of July-inspired red, white, and blue swimsuit and even posing topless for a sexy bathroom selfie. Keep reading to check out those sexy moments and more.

Surprise! Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova Have Reportedly Welcomed Twins

Longtime couple Enrique Iglesias and Anna Kournikova have reportedly welcomed twins! TMZ was first to report that the former tennis player gave birth to a boy and a girl in Miami on Saturday and that the little ones have been named Nicholas and Lucy. The notoriously private pair, who have been dating for 16 years, managed to keep Anna's pregnancy a secret; both stars have kept a low profile since Anna shared a snap of her and Enrique with her younger brother on Instagram back in June 2016. Congrats to the couple on their growing family! See more celebrities who are bringing home new babies in 2018.

Watch Salma Hayek's Adorable Daughter, Valentina, Grow Up Before Your Eyes

Mexican actress Salma Hayek and her French businessman husband, Francois-Henri Pinault, are the definition of a power couple, and their daughter, Valentina Paloma, is a gorgeous blend of them both. And because her parents are famous, Valentina, who is now 9 years old, has subsequently grown up in the limelight.

A star since birth, she has been on the guest list for big red carpet movie premieres and high-profile art exhibitions and has even made the occasional appearance on Salma's Instagram in front of her over 3 million followers. Here, see her go from too-cute baby to fashionable kid - all with her beautiful mom by her side.

- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez

Queen Letizia's Dress Is as Fancy as the China You Use For Christmas Dinner

Right around the holiday season, we're constantly thinking about attention-grabbing party looks to shop that extend beyond New Year's Eve. It seems like we're not the only ones - Queen Letizia stepped out for two separate events in this floral Felipe Varela number that we admired right away. She attended the Magistral Action awards and later hosted a formal lunch for the Ecuadorian president at the palace in Madrid.

The Spanish royal accessorized her cream and navy sheath - complete with sophisticated details like a collar and buttons down the bodice and sleeves - with sheer tights, patent pumps, a Nina Ricci clutch, and Tous pearl drop earrings. Naturally, we were smitten. Letizia's design wasn't overtly festive, but it was notably flattering and Winter appropriate. If her dress appears to be a sound investment to you too, shop inspired pieces with us ahead.

14 Everyday Struggles of Bilingual People

I speak 2.5 languages. I'm fluent in Spanish (my birth language) and English, and I know enough Italian to help a lost tourist on the subway. Though being able to communicate in more than one tongue has its serious benefits - there are more jobs available to me, I have an easier time when traveling abroad, some studies even say we're smarter (tooting my own horn here) - there are struggles. Boy, are there struggles.

More than once, I have spoken Spanish to someone who has no idea what I'm saying, and words have come out of my mouth in a total jumble of Spanglish that not even I understand. Minor issues, sure, but if you're bilingual, you know it doesn't end there. Keep reading for a list of the everyday situations you probably also face - bilinguals, unite!

Have Yourself a Boozy Little Christmas With This Glorious Tequila Advent Calendar

Don't get us wrong - we love indulging in a daily chocolate treat from traditional Advent calendars, but sometimes we're craving something a bit, er, stronger to aid in our Christmas countdown. Enter boozy Advent calendars, the answer to our wildest holiday dreams. We recently discovered Drinks by the Dram, a glorious company that makes all the spirit-filled calendars our Christmas-loving hearts could ever desire, and perhaps the best option of them all is its 2017 Tequila Advent Calendar. Just writing the words "tequila Advent calendar" in succession is getting us psyched!

This festive calendar is jam-packed with 24 different 30-milliliter bottles of tequila from both boutique and widely known producers all over Mexico, including Don Julio 1942 Tequila and Casa Noble Anejo, to name a few. Each day leading up to Christmas is like a different boozy surprise, allowing you to sip your way through the holidays. Who needs to light the fireplace when you've got some smooth tequila to warm you to your core, am I right?

The tequila-filled Advent calendar is now available for purchase for $166. We suggest placing your order ASAP, because agave-lovers everywhere are sure to snatch up this boozy box quicker than you can say, "Shots, anyone?"

15 Latin Cookies Perfect For Your Office's Holiday Swap

We hate to say it, but we're in the spirit, so here we go: 'tis the season to sip hot cider, start shopping for gifts, and . . . bake and indulge in delicious treats! One of the best parts of the holiday season is participating in cookie swaps among friends, family, and co-workers. Tell us what is better than getting to take home a huge Tupperware container of every cookie you can possibly think of?

This year, opt to break away from the traditional chocolate chip and sugar cookies, and try one of these 15 Latin cookie recipes instead. Your basket will be the most popular one around, we promise.

25+ Latin Songs That Make For the Perfect Holiday Playlist

As Latinas, we're lucky enough to be able to make the holiday season special and particularly ours - with touches of traditions no one else understands, which make our celebrations feel totally unique. For one, there's the food; the chicken is next to the lechón or the turkey, and everyone is eating at different times (and multiple times) through the night. There are lots of people everywhere, getting ready for the nightlong affair, starting on the afternoon of Dec. 24 and leading up to present opening at midnight.

But nothing incites more holiday cheer than the soundtrack blasting from speakers as everyone chatters and gossips around the tree and nativity scene. Keep scrolling for the ultimate Latin holiday playlist that'll make everyone bop around, sing along, and get into the holiday spirit quicker than you can say "Feliz Navidad," then check off everyone on your list with these 100-plus gift ideas.

No One Will Even Notice These 15 Delicious Holiday Sides Are Vegetarian

Everyone knows that at holiday dinners, the sides are as much a star as the main dishes. And if you have a vegetarian attending who won't eat the lechón, a wide range of filling and meatless accompaniments is the answer to your hostess prayers.

This year, vegetarians and carnivores alike will flock to your kitchen if you've cooked up one of these tasty veggie-based recipes. From rice mixes to stuffed peppers, everyone will appreciate these hearty additions to the menu that don't skimp on flavor one. single. bit.

5 Unexpected Uses For Hydrogen Peroxide

If you're like most people, the only reason you pull out your brown bottle of three-percent hydrogen peroxide is to clean a cut. It is a much less painful way to sanitize your wound than, let's say, alcohol (OUCH!). But did you know that hydrogen peroxide has a lot of other everyday uses as well? Keep reading to find out how to clean your kitchen, your toothbrushes, and even your feet.

Are Your Undertones Warm or Cool? Take the Quiz to Find Out

This Traditional Malibu Wedding Looks Like a Modern-Day Fairy Tale

What makes a wedding truly extraordinary are the little details that come together to make a big impact. POPSUGAR's own reporter and producer Brandi Milloy paid special attention to every aspect of her big day when planning with now-husband Chris Simon. Their ceremony took place at St. Brendan Catholic Church in Los Angeles, a gorgeous structure with amazing architecture and stained glass. The reception was at Duke's Malibu overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

From the blush and rose gold accents to the elaborate dessert table, the whole wedding was a true fairy tale. Brandi even surprised Chris with a second dress that she slipped on after dinner. "Everything about our day felt like us," Brandi said. "It was timeless but at the same time very fresh and modern."

The bride's favorite moment of the day was right before she walked down the aisle at the church. "My sister and maid of honor, Sonya, and I said a prayer together before I saw my dad for the first time," she said. "It's the moment I had dreamed of for so long. He told me he was very happy for me and then we locked arms and together walked down the aisle."

Marvel at all the beautiful moments during Chris and Brandi's wedding in the photos ahead. We are totally inspired by everything!

A New Harry Potter Game Will Let Us Live Out Our Hogwarts Dreams in 2018

On Dec. 12, a little over a month after we found out that there would be an augmented reality-based Harry Potter game coming next year, we got the long-awaited, much-desired (and superexciting!) news that Harry Potter fans everywhere have been waiting on for years: 2018 will also be the year in which we finally get a Hogwarts-based game. That's right: soon, we'll be able to inhabit the world of a student at the beloved academy . . . all thanks to the forthcoming Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery.

Games studio Jam City and Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment's Portkey Games (the unit devoted exclusively to experiences based on J.K. Rowling's wizarding world) are partnering to create the role-playing game for our mobile devices, and it will allow fans old and young to enter the world that we've so long experienced from the outside. And what exactly should we expect from the game? Well, it's still very early days, but according to the press release heralding the announcement:

"The new game lets Harry Potter fans live the dream of becoming a student at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry by creating their own character and progressing through their years at Hogwarts. Along the way, players will participate in all of the magical classes and activities they have come to love - like Defense Against the Dark Arts, Potions, Dueling Club, and more. Most of the iconic professors from the Harry Potter stories reprise their roles in the game."

The release date for Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery has not yet been announced, but you can bet that the second we hear anything concrete, we'll be shouting it from the rooftops. And let's not forget that this new development means that we will now, officially, have TWO Harry Potter games coming our way next year. And that, my friends, is a very good reason to look forward to 2018.

This Fall Engagement Shoot in Central Park Is Too Adorable to Handle

Taking your engagement photos in the Fall means you can really have fun embracing the season. Ann and TJ captured their couple's session in one of the most iconic landmarks in New York City: Central Park. The two walked through the gorgeous Mall where the leaves were just beginning to change color, then made their way to Bethesda Fountain for more romantic shots. Their whole album showed their love for each other and the city, and it turned out perfectly. See their adorable pictures!

30 Wedding Favors You Won't Believe Cost Under $1

You're spending a lot on your wedding, so one of the easiest places to save some money is with your favors. Check out these cute ideas that barely cost a thing - don't worry, your guests will love them! Some are edible, some are DIY, and some are just unexpectedly fun. The one thing they have in common is that they are super affordable. It doesn't get much better than that!

Kate and William Reveal an Adorable New Family Portrait Ahead of Christmas

Royal Christmas cards just seem to be getting cuter and cuter. On Monday, shortly after Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall shared their festive portrait on Twitter, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge released a new family photo featuring Prince George and Princess Charlotte. Along with the precious photograph, which was taken earlier this year at Kensington Palace, Kate and William also revealed that Charlotte would be attending nursery school from January 2018. Between the arrival of a new bundle of joy and Prince Harry's wedding, next year will definitely be an exciting time for the royal family!

50 States of Glorious Hiking Destinations

There are very few things that can compare with the thrill of hiking. From the fresh air and scenic views to the natural appreciation that can come from rambling through a trail, spending time in the great outdoors not only enhances your health and improves your mood, but it's also the gateway to everlasting adventure . . . not to mention it's the ultimate glute workout!

Whether you're seeking famous locations such as the Appalachian Trail and Yosemite National Park or more secluded trails off the beaten path, the United States gushes with outdoor glory and natural wonders. No matter the state, there is a spectacular journey waiting to be hiked, and luckily for you, we've rounded up 50 glorious options. So go ahead, grab your gear and head outside - it's time to reconnect with nature, one step at a time!

11 Black Nail Polishes That Are Festive Enough For Christmas at Grandma's

We love a good black nail polish - but maybe not for a family dinner. Instead of freaking your mom out with a goth mani, why not meet halfway and sport a dark glitter nail?

The easiest way to turn your Nightmare Before Christmas mani into a G-rated holiday nail art extravaganza is by taking a cue from this season's decorative lights. Whether you choose to add a shimmering topcoat, foil overlay, or sweet pop of an additional color like red or gold, 'tis the season to glitterfy your nails.

Even if you start with the most basic black out there (like Essie's Licorice), you can layer on shine like baubles on a spruce tree. Ahead, find 11 exact polishes we guarantee won't offend anyone at your holiday dinner table.

31 Times Our Dysfunctional Space Boyfriend Adam Driver Made Us Want to Join the Dark Side

After Star Wars: The Last Jedi opened, fans were leaving the theater flustered and a little thirsty. Shirtless Kylo Ren, anyone? But longtime fans of Adam Driver know that he's been a secret hottie for far too long. The actor previously graced our screens with his brooding stare on Lena Dunham's Girls and recently teamed up with Channing Tatum for Logan Lucky. He's considered unconventionally attractive by many, in the "doesn't know he's hot/slightly emo" kind of way, which is exactly why fans love him. If you're still feeling the heat from his powerful performance as Kylo Ren or simply want to reminisce on some of his sexiest (and more shirtless) moments, keep scrolling!

11 LOL-Worthy Tops For All Your Healthy Friends

Not sure what to give a healthy friend on your list? One of these cute tops will fit the bill and bring a big smile to her face. Whether she's a gym junkie, yogi, Paleo, or vegan, there's at least one pick here that will suit her taste and personality, and you'll be glad to know that all these tops are under $30.

Diet Coke Enthusiast Donald Trump Took the Strangest Sip of Water Ever

Donald Trump reportedly drinks a dozen Diet Cokes every day. I bring this up not because it's obviously an incredibly unhealthy habit but because his love for the soft drink might be hindering his ability to appreciate and enjoy the finest beverage this planet has to offer: water.

On Dec. 18, Trump put forth his national security strategy in a speech at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington DC. Well, all that foreign policy talk must have made the president particularly parched, because he subsequently found himself taking a rather abrupt sip of water during the address.

Now, I know what you're thinking: I'm nitpicking and grasping at yet another excuse to pick on the president, even if this ridiculous excuse is really just a distraction from all the actual issues and wrongdoings taking place in the administration, among both parties, and in the nation at large. To that I say, you're absolutely right.

This isn't the first time Trump has been caught strangely taking a sip, however, and here's why it's actually hilarious: he previously mocked presidential hopeful Marco Rubio for doing the exact same thing. After the senator was roasted for taking an awkward sip of water during his official response to President Barack Obama's State of the Union address, Trump could not get over the viral moment.

On Twitter, Trump at the time advised Rubio to drink water from a glass instead of from a bottle, saying it "would have much less negative impact" - advice that the president clearly shouldn't have given, in retrospect. But it didn't end there: several months after the kerfuffle, he was still thinking about that moment; when asked about his thoughts on Rubio by a Twitter follower, Trump simply said, "Drinks too much water!" Ah, the sweet karmic retribution - it's enough to make you positively dehydrated. Right, Mr. President?

An Improbable Friendship Between a Dog and a Duck Is the Good News Story We All Need Right Now

Sick and tired of only hearing about the bad things going on in the world? We're right there with you - and, thankfully, we've got the cure for exactly what ails you.

Meet the unlikely pair of Max, a 12-year-old Husky, and Quackers, a 4-year-old duck. Against all odds, the two animals - both owned by Patrick and Kirsten Riley - are inseparable best friends, and they're the pride and joy of the teeny-tiny town of Strout, MN. The town boasts a population of just 25 people, so Max and Quackers are well-known to all the residents and can frequently be seen out patrolling their domain. "Sometimes on my way home, I actually hope they're out there because they're just too precious to look at," Strout resident Alisa Godejahn told CBS affiliate WCCO-TV.

In the interview below, the Rileys describe how they adopted Max when he was 5 and he became fast pals with the couple's other dog, Sasha, and after she died, he was left without a friend. "He was without any friends, and Max would sit next to his pen all the time, and I think they just bonded that way," Patrick Riley says, adding, "after we let him out, they just never left each others' side." Kirsten Riley goes on to say that "they sleep together, they eat together, they drink together, they go for walks together down the road . . . everything is together."

The improbable friendship between a dog and a duck provides a poignant reminder that kindness and compassion transcends all that which may traditionally divide us and that it's not impossible to buck tradition and create a bond with someone who may not be exactly the same as you. As such, the pair is often used as a symbol of how to "put aside differences" among the residents of the town in which they reside.

Symbolism aside, it's hard not to have your heart melt at the sight of these delightful animals trotting along in unison. And you can bet that we'll be bookmarking this video of Max and Quackers and be watching it all year long, because it's exactly the kind of thing that we need a little more of in our lives right now.

Twitter Is Roasting Mario Batali For Writing an "Apology" Letter That Includes a Recipe

It would seem that Mario Batali didn't make a very wise decision when he decided to send out an "apology" newsletter to his email subscribers. The chef was fired from his hosting job at ABC's The Chew and stepped down from his restaurant group following sexual misconduct allegations that have now come from eight women, and subscribers of his newsletter were surprised to find a letter in their inboxes over the weekend that at first read like a pretty standard, though not great, apology that acknowledged his troubling actions. The one major problem with the letter? What Mario included at the very bottom following a "PS": a freaking recipe for pizza dough cinnamon rolls.

Batali started the newsletter by writing, "As many of you know, this week there has been some news coverage about some of my past behavior. I have made many mistakes and I am so very sorry that I have disappointed my friends, my family, my fans, and my team. My behavior was wrong and there are no excuses. I take full responsibility." Then he emphasized the fact that he has a lot of fans whose trust he will "work every day to regain," after which he signed the letter "-MB." Instead of leaving it at that, he wrote, "PS. In case you're searching for a holiday-inspired breakfast, these Pizza Dough Cinnamon Rolls are a fan favorite." Then there's a big image of those cinnamon rolls and a "get the recipe" link. It was such a ludicrous and tone-deaf thing to do that it seems fake, but people have confirmed they did receive the email as pictured.

Let's break that down and summarize: "Hi, fans, sorry for the sexual assault. Now, who's hungry for some cinnamon rolls?!" To say that Mario's decision to undercut an important apology with a plug for his own recipe renders it insincere is an understatement, and Twitter is appropriately roasting him for it.

Dear men who are wondering how to construct their own apologies: don't follow Mario Batali's lead!

13 Ways to Print Instagram Photos

Instagram is the easiest way to create dreamy camera-phone photos in a flash. The filters work their magic so well that nearly every picture comes out looking like a keepsake. Making those memories permanent can be just as easy with these tools for turning Instagram photos into lasting works of art. Here's how:

Image Source: Social Print Studio

  • Social Print Studio - The company offers multiple ways to print Instagram photos, but the 20-by-30-inch posters will make a stunning addition to a living room wall. Between 50 and 200 photos are arranged in a clean grid on thick archival paper for $25. Fill a mini book ($15 for a set of two) with miniature prints of favorite photos or do the Polaroid-style squares ($12 for 24 prints), which have wide enough borders to double as notecards.
  • PostalPix - Use this iPhone app to print four-inch squares from your Instagram library for only 49 cents each. Other sizes are also available, including five-inch square prints. Fast shipping, a matte finish, professional-quality resolution, and the convenience of mobile shopping make this our first stop for basic Instagram prints.
  • CanvasPop - Those filtered photos are worthy of an at-home gallery. Create a high-resolution canvas print starting at $30. Buy multiple canvases for an artful wall vignette.
  • Blurb - Haven't looked at a photo album in a while? Blurb brings back what now seems like an antiquated way of sharing photos with a modern Instagram twist. Softcover books start at $15.

Image Source: Artifact Uprising

  • Artifact Uprising - For a stunning addition to your home, we love the options from Artifact Uprising, which incorporates reclaimed pinewood from its own Colorado backyard. Clipboard calendars ($30) with a print for each month are serene for a workstation, and the wood block plus 12 prints ($25) creates a changeable photo display.
  • Instagoodies - Print favorite Instagram photos into books of one-inch stickers ($14). Attach stickers to the computer monitor, your phone case, or a wallet for a quick flash of happiness.
  • Chatbooks - Use photos from Facebook or Instagram and turn them into books and albums, starting at $10. You can even set up to get a book created from every 60 photos you post on Instagram automatically!
  • FoxPrint - Take a cue from your mom and turn your refrigerator into bragging grounds for your works of art. For $12 or more, FoxPrint makes a set of photo magnets from your favorite images.
  • ImageSnap - This service crafts ceramic tiles ranging from two-inch ($5) to 12-inch ($35) squares. Tiles can be installed with mortar and grout just like normal tiles, though the tiny sizes make for perfect refrigerator magnets.

Image Source: Artflakes

  • Persnickety Prints - Use your Instagram account to print your favorite photos in different sizes, finishes, and paper starting at $0.35!
  • Casetify - Create a custom case for your device of choice - iPhone 4 through X, iPad and iPad Mini, iPod Touch, Samsung Galaxy S II through S8+, and Galaxy Note - for $40. Customize your collage and layout, and then Casetify prints it on a white or black case.
  • Postagram - A fun way to show people you're thinking of them, Postagram mails a postcard with pop-out Instagram photo and message to friends for $1.99 each. A perfect last-minute gift!
  • Stitchtagram - Now that your walls are filled with Instagram photos, cuddle up to memories with a 15-inch linen-cotton-blend pillow ($58, originally $68) made from account images.

With so many resources to print Instagram photos, you could easily decorate an entire house with iPhone memories. How do you share your mobile-phone photos?