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.
jeudi 1 février 2018
Sarah Huckabee Sanders Says the Country Would Be "Better For It" If Nancy Pelosi Smiled More
White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders joined CNN's Chris Cuomo the day after Trump's State of the Union address to discuss the events of the evening. Cuomo kicked off the conversation by saying, "That room last night was grossly divided. I've never seen Nancy Pelosi's face like that," and asked Sanders how she thinks president Trump can unify a room of politicians that are so heavily at odds. Sanders responded by saying, "I think doing exactly what he did last night. I'm gonna be a little bit in disagreement with you - I think Nancy Pelosi looks like that all the time. I think she should smile a lot more often. I think the country would be better for it. She seems to kind of embody the bitterness that belongs in the Democrat party right now."
Ah, the classic "women need to smile more" advice. Sounds familiar, right? It's one of the most common things women hear as they are walking past men on the street: that condescending command, "Smile more, sweetie." If we're zooming in on facial expressions caught on camera during the State of the Union, let's be honest: Nancy Pelosi wasn't the only one who looked bored at times. Even Bernie Sanders's unenthusiastic clapping inspired tons of hilarious reactions on Twitter. Woman to woman, Sanders telling Pelosi to smile more is not a mature or respectful thing to do - but watch the full conversation above and decide for yourself.
The Best iPhone 8 Plus Cases of 2018
If there's one thing we can say for certain, it's that no new iPhone is complete without the perfect case. But at the same time, actually finding the perfect case can be one of the most tizzy-inducing experiences of our modern lives. But never fear! We've gone through all of the best cases currently available for purchase and found all of the ones that are unquestionably worth the money (and will jazz up your style). We'll be continuing to add to this list as the year goes on, but ahead, find the 15 cases we're certain you'll fall in love with - and be sure to check back to see what else 2018 has in store for your iPhone 8 Plus!
10 Honest Pieces of Love Advice From Uber Drivers
Sitting in the backseat of an Uber is like sitting in a confessional. For some reason, we feel comfortable dishing about our latest hookups and issues with a total stranger - or forget the fact that drivers see and hear everything from their seat. Maybe it's because our chances of crossing paths again are slim, but for whatever reason we choose to confide in him or her, and they're great sources for relationship advice. See what Uber drivers across America recommend in the name of love.
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.
Only J Lo Could Wear a Minidress That Resembles a Cupcake Liner and Look This Hot
Jennifer Lopez can basically rock any trend she pleases. Whether she's styling sparkly Gucci socks with heels or wearing a fuzzy vest to a basketball game, the singer can do no wrong. J Lo hit the red carpet wearing an ultrasexy ensemble to promote the second season of the NBC show World of Dance.
For the event, J Lo found the perfect minidress to show off her toned legs. She wore a strapless ruffled mini from Ester Abner's Resort 18 collection. She finished off her look with a pair of Jimmy Choo peep-toe heels and gold earrings from her Jennifer Lopez for Kohl's collection. Keep reading to have a look at her outfit, and buy similar versions of her dress ahead.
85 Bikini Photos That Show Alessandra Ambrosio's Amazing Body
Alessandra Ambrosio's Instagram is reliable for a few things: bikinis, gorgeous beaches, and sexy photos. The Brazilian supermodel is not shy when it comes to getting in a skimpy swimsuit and posing for the camera - she did make her fame by walking down the runway of the hottest show in Victoria's Secret lingerie - and we don't blame her. The mom of two has a crazy-toned body. Need proof? See her sexiest bikini pictures, then check out her workout style.
Camila Cabello's First L'Oréal Paris Ad Is So Uplifting, You May Weep
Unless it's a certain time of the month, I don't really cry at things. I've never shed a tear while watching Titanic, because I am a soulless monster. No gushy Hallmark ad or animal-filled Budweiser Super Bowl commercial has ever made me cry. That just changed with the release of Camila Cabello's first-ever L'Oréal Paris ad. Get out your waterproof mascara, folks, because Camila's new spot is uplifting as heck.
Camila's repping L'Oréal Paris's Elvive Line, which exists to refresh damaged hair. If you recall, Winona Ryder just starred in her own stunning commercial for the same collection.
In the commercial, we watch the "Havana" singer prepare to go on stage. As she gets ready to perform, we hear her voice-over saying, "When they say you're not ready, that you'll never make it on your own, that's the time to really shine." The spot finishes with the tagline, "Everyone deserves a comeback," which perhaps refers to both refreshing heat-stressed hair and the challenges Camila faced going solo after leaving the girl group Fifth Harmony.
Watch the ad below - but not without tissues.
At Just 12 Years Old, Princess Leonor Is 1 Step Closer to Becoming the Queen of Spain
While many girls only dream of being a princess, at just 12 years old, Princess Leonor is on her way to becoming the queen of Spain. On Tuesday, King Felipe VI marked his 50th birthday by presenting his eldest daughter, Leonor, with the Order of the Golden Fleece at the Royal Palace in Madrid. The award is one of the country's most coveted honors and is a "symbolic step" in Leonor's road to ascending the throne after her father.
During his speech, Felipe couldn't help but gush about how proud he is of Leonor. "Today, Leonor, you are taking a very important and symbolic step towards your future role, which began on 19 June 2014, when, by constitutional rights, you were named the Princess of Asturias and given other titles that traditionally belong to the heir to the Spanish throne," Felipe said. "I know it may seem like you have lots of challenges and responsibilities to face, all important and difficult, but know that you have the support of many people who want the best for Spain, for the crown and for you. Your family will always be at your side, especially your mother and Sofía, who will be with you, supporting you, as will your grandparents and of course, myself. Know that you have my complete trust and that I feel so immensely proud to have presented this Order of the Golden Fleece to you this morning."
To make matters even sweeter, the special event also brought out Leonor's mother, Queen Letizia, and her younger sister, Infanta Sofía, who could not have looked happier for her. Leonor was officially granted the order back in October 2015, but it wasn't ceremoniously given to her until now.
Bring It On, Winter! We Have These 15 Recipes to Get Us Through
It's safe to say that Winter is the best season for spending a lot of time in the kitchen. For us, this year is all about whipping up the best comfort foods for warming up, and ending up with leftovers we can enjoy on lazy nights indoors. These 15 recipes are for when the air starts to get chilly, from cozy soups to filling casseroles, each with a Latin twist. Grab a comfy sweater and dig in.
31 Taco Recipes That Prove You Can Eat Tacos For a Month Without Getting Bored
"Don't you ever get bored of eating tacos? You eat them every day." If this is something you have heard and promptly answered with a big resounding no, then this "challenge" is just for you. Straight ahead you'll find a month-worth of taco recipes - chicken, steak, pork, fish, and vegetarian - that show you could actually have the delicious Mexican dish for dinner every night without repeating a preparation. Some people take 31-day fitness challenges, some people eat tacos instead.
Try to Resist Dancing Along to Bruno Mars and Cardi B's Grammys Performance - We Dare You
Bruno Mars and Cardi B brought all the '90s vibes to the Grammy Awards when they performed their joint hit "Finesse" for the crowd. Cardi B kicked things off by delivering her opening verse while wearing a colorblocked outfit that looked straight out of In Living Color's costume closet, and Bruno soon joined her to show off his dance moves (including a very impressive moonwalk). Honestly, it's nearly impossible to watch them groovin' on stage without getting the urge to get up and shake it, too. Relive the colorful performance over and over with the mesmerizing GIFs ahead and you just might pick up some fresh new dance moves.
The Fitness Marshall Has Finally Blessed Us With a Cardi B Dance Video
Get ready for a freakin' FIERCE hip-hop dance workout - to Cardi B! We've been praying that The Fitness Marshall would choreograph a dance to Cardi B's "Bartier Cardi," and our prayers have finally been answered in the most amazing way. The only thing that's more fun than watching this video is dancing to it.
Attention: Your New Favorite Highlighter Is Hiding at Walmart
I wrote an article last month about people who abuse their highlighter. As a professional makeup artist, I have seen many people overdo it with their "glow," and many were irate that I called them out on it. Even though in that article I spoke with disdain about people that highlight too much, the fact remains that I am in love with highlighter when used properly. There is nothing greater than finding the perfect product that accentuates your bone structure and shaves years off of your beautiful face.
I recently was in a store consulting with a makeup artist at a very high-end luxury makeup counter. I noticed that her highlighter was absolutely amazing and noted sadly that I would love to splurge on the high-end $80 highlighter from her brand, but it seemed overpriced. She raised her eyebrows in surprise and leaned in to tell me a secret. "I am not wearing this brand's highlighter . . . don't tell anyone. It's Wet n Wild."
I took a step back and stared at her glistening cheekbones again, to be sure that my well-trained professional eye was in fact seeing things properly. Yes, her cheekbones and face was glistening with a creamy glow that was just the right tone, texture, and shine. Admittedly, I have enjoyed some NYX and Maybelline items as a professional makeup artist, but I have not purchased or used something from Wet n Wild since my teen years.
She went on to tell me that the Wet n Wild MegaGlo™ Highlight Powder($5) is available in seven gorgeous shades, each for less than you might spend on your daily latte. I could buy all seven and would be spending less than I normally do on one luxury brand highlighter or highlighter palette! The peachy gold shade that she was wearing was called Precious Pearls and is especially ideal for someone with an olive complexion, like her . . . and me. I was on a mission.
I headed to my local drugstore the next day to pick up my $5 "gold" and found that the shade was sold out. The next drugstore didn't carry the line at all. A Google search revealed that Target carried the product, but was sold out in Precious Pearls in every store in my area, and the closest store that had it was a cool two hours away. All of this information only made me want my Wet n Wild highlighter more than ever.
Lo and behold, an internet search revealed that a Walmart just one town over from me had what I was looking for. Even then, I had to search. I carefully went up and down the cosmetics aisles three times before I found the Precious Pearls nestled inconspicuously amidst the other drugstore brands.
I scooped up Crown of my Canopy, which I intend to wear when I have a tan, as it is a more golden, richer version of the Precious Pearls. I grabbed Botanic Dream for those fairer-skinned clients that enjoy a pinkish-glow to their highlighter. And a real find - for those of you who are about to spend on the latest and greatest lilac-toned highlighter - the Royal Calyx shade. This light, purple-blue toned highlighter will keep you on trend without breaking the bank.
I have been wearing this product every day since I found it. I have received endless compliments, and I have noticed that my selfies look better than ever. There is just something magical about this highlighter. Part of it might be the price, but anyone who knows anything about highlighter can recognize a good one when they see it. The other day at the end of a long photo shoot, feeling tired and weary, I sat down outside, and a friend snapped my picture. None of my exhaustion was evident; instead I looked simply glowing and happy to be alive. I attribute this to my favorite new highlighter.
These products are the just the right amount of shimmery delight (without hard chunky glitter), and each one of the seven shades available are flawless. The textures are just the right amount of creamy without being too dewy or wet and surprisingly for just under five bucks, the packaging is quite delightful and luxurious with floral patterns baked into the product.
The glow can be applied with a fan brush or packed on with cream cheek brush, and it will never make you look like a glazed doughnut (unless you want it to.) I find that using a fan brush is best, as it allows you to gently apply the glow and gives you the control you need to add more product, without getting too shiny. I even had a client last week who is known for "abusing her highlighter" and was doubtful about my new find. I packed on several layers with my fan brush, and she was pleasantly shocked at how beautifully the product sat on her skin.
I always say splurge or get your thrills from items like mascara or lipstick that won't put you in the red. Highlighter is something that is hard to find, and often you will find that you are willing to fork over $40 to $60 when you find just the right one. This $5 find from the drugstore won't destroy your beauty budget, and your cheekbones will be the envy of all!
10 Delicious Trader Joe's Meal Hacks to Make Dinner Easy
How can you hack a delicious homemade meal in minutes without resorting to a frozen entree? We asked our editors to share their tips for fast, easy, and tasty dinners thrown together with a handful of Trader Joe's products, so you can become an even savvier cook on busy weeknights.
This Insane Watermelon Skinning Trick Will Make Your Jaw Drop
We all know how to cut watermelon into cubes and slices, but how many times have your guests really been impressed with those shapes? One former NASA engineer, Mark Rober, figured out the coolest party trick that presents the fruit in a way you'd never imagine.
Rober takes two watermelons close in size - the first he skins completely by removing outer slices with a knife, then smooths its surface out with a dish scrub. The second watermelon is cut into two equal halves and then gutted entirely. Place the skinned watermelon into the empty vessel, and you've got yourself a twist-apart melon.
Watch the video and try it out for yourself!
17 Weeknight Dinner Recipes From The Pioneer Woman That Make Life Easier
We might not all be able to re-create Ree Drummond's picturesque ranch and gorgeous kitchen at home, but at least we can re-create her dinners. And if there's anyone you should be drawing weeknight dinner inspiration from, it's Ree, a mother of four and master of fast, easy, and comforting recipes that you can whip up in a flash. Ahead, we've rounded up 17 of The Pioneer Woman's best weeknight dinners that you'll actually look forward to cooking, like pasta with pesto cream sauce, garlic-lemon shrimp, sheet-pan pork chops, and more. All of these tried-and-true recipes will make your life easier (and tastier).
Brie vs. Camembert: What's the Difference?
While both brie and camembert are cow's milk cheeses, are soft-ripening, and have a white, flowery rind, the two aren't interchangeable. So the next time you are at the store and must choose between brie or camembert, here's what you need to know.
- Production: During the cheese-making process, cream is added to brie, but in camembert, it is not; as a result, brie is 60 percent milk fat, while camembert is only 45 percent. In addition, camembert uses stronger lactic starters that are inoculated into the cheese mold five times, contributing to a stronger-flavored cheese. Brie's lactic starters are only put into the cheese mold once, therefore the cheese is milder.
- Outer appearance: The diameters of brie and camembert cheese molds are different. (Notice the Saint André brie to the left appears taller and smaller than the flat, round Ile de France camembert to the right. The camembert cheese mold has a specific size and weight of 250 grams.
- Inner appearance: Brie tends to have a whitish inside, while camembert has a deeper yellowish color. A very ripe camembert will have runny insides; most versions of brie in America, however, are stabilized, meaning the cheese's center will have a firm texture that will never turn runny.
- Smell and taste: Brie has a light, buttery scent and flavor with a salty finish. Camembert can be on the funkier side and smell earthy and barnyard-y like mushrooms or hay, with an intensely savory, umami flavor.
- Affinage: Brie is made to be consumed immediately. While Americans tend to eat cheeses on the younger side, in France, most will practice affinage, or the art of ripening cheese, and will wait for six or eight weeks before cutting into a wheel of gooey, ripened camembert.
Which do you prefer: brie or camembert?
How to Make Pie Crust, in Pictures
Have a hankering for cherry pie, but find yourself intimidated by the process of making crust from scratch? Look no further! Not only do we have a near-foolproof pie crust recipe to share, but we've broken the procedure down into a few simple steps sure to elucidate the process for visual learners. So stop fretting (it's easy, we swear!) and start baking.
15 Keto-Approved Appetizers You'll Love Having in Your Rotation
If you're intrigued by the ketogenic diet craze but are feeling intimidated by the idea of coming up with tons of creative recipes, have no fear. The low-carb keto diet offers many opportunities to cook your favorite foods while still sticking to the plan. Here, we've rounded up 15 appetizer options, from egg cups to meat-and-veggie combos. Whether you're serving them up at a party or preparing them to enjoy solo, they are all sure to be winners.
17 Easy Breakfast Sandwiches You'll Leap Out of Bed to Eat
Whether you're rushing out the door or enjoying a leisurely weekend morning, you want a breakfast that sticks to your ribs and keeps your family happy. There's no better solution, then, than quick and easy breakfast sandwiches, made with protein-rich eggs and other delicious ingredients that will tide you over until lunch. Peruse this mouthwatering list of sammies that won't take forever to make, and you're sure to find your family's new go-to breakfast.
12 Baby Shower Games That Guys Will Actually Want to Play
Say "it's game time" at a baby shower, and undoubtedly you'll hear a not-so-suppressed groan from at least one of your guests, especially if your invite list includes a dad-to-be and his buddies. But the following 12 activities, all perfect for co-ed showers or parties thrown just for the expectant father, remove the "ick factor" from shower games and amp up the dude-friendly fun. From bottle chugging to pregnant Twister, these activities prove that baby showers can be a good time for guys, too. Seriously.
The 30 Best Pop-Up Books For Kids of All Ages
What's more fun than a normal kids' book? One that is filled with cool, creative, and even interactive pop-ups! The following 30 books are sure to delight kids of all ages with beautiful illustrations, dramatic pop-up elements, and funny stories. Whether your kids love robots, My Little Pony, dinosaurs, Disney princesses, or just the changing seasons, there's a pop-up book made just for them. From classic stories reimagined in 3D form to wholly new creations you'll love to add to your library, here are our favorite options. Check them out to add some pop to story time!
Olympian Michelle Kwan Opens Up About the Sacrifices Her "Incredible Mom" Made For Her
Figure skater Michelle Kwan has gone down in history as one of America's Olympic sweethearts. With two Olympic medals under her belt and arguably one of the most graceful skating styles we've ever seen, it's hard to forget all the heartfelt emotions this iconic athlete brought to us when she was competing in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Today, Michelle is getting ready for the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics in a different way. She'll be watching from the sidelines, cheering on Team USA and encouraging every figure skater out there representing our country. POPSUGAR caught up with Michelle to talk about partnering up with Procter & Gamble for the #LoveOverBias campaign, which celebrates all the dedicated moms out there who are the backbones of Olympic athletes.
The "Thank You, Mom" ad in conjunction with this campaign shows the struggles that many athletes overcome, and how some must overcome an overwhelming amount of bias in order to succeed. (Just try not to shed a tear when you watch it.)
"It really hits home for me because of my incredible mom," Michelle told POPSUGAR. "When I saw [the ad] for the first time, I really choked up because I can really relate to it." The adversity and struggles her mother and her family have gone through - and the sacrifices they've made - are the reason Michelle was able to be so successful in her career. Without them, we wouldn't have the figure skating icon we know and love today.
Michelle admits that she herself chokes up when she watches the video. "My mom was a huge influence for me and was supporting me when we could barely make ends meet," she shared. She did this so that Michelle could have "this incredible opportunity to participate in sports and do what I love." Her mom believed in her more than anyone else, and that's something Michelle says many, many athletes can relate to. "This is their story."
She recalls the early mornings when her alarm would go off at 4 a.m. Her mom would take her to the ice skating rink at 5 a.m. to skate for a few hours before school, and then she would take her back to the rink again after school. After that, she would make dinner for her and get her to bed, only to stay up and "make my costumes in the wee hours" of the night. Michelle also said her mom dealt with "the stresses of being able to pay the bills" and traveled with her everywhere, no matter where in the world she had to go.
When people ask Michelle what kind of sacrifices she made to be an Olympic athlete she responds, "I didn't make sacrifices. I made choices in order to be the best I can be. But parents on the other hand - moms - are the ones behind us, supporting athletes and giving encouraging words."
So as you're watching the Winter Olympics this year, keep in mind all the hard work and dedication all the mothers put in so that their children could compete. Tune in on Feb. 9 to watch your favorite athletes.
PRAISE! Applebee's Is Keeping the $1 Cocktails Flowing All February Long
Apparently Applebee's is trying to be our valentine this year, because the restaurant chain just announced that it will offer $1 cocktails all February long! The chain has experimented with affordable Long Island iced tea and margarita deals in the past, but we're especially excited about the February special because it's all about the Bahama Mama. This fruity cocktail features a hefty pour of rum, so while it's not quite as dangerous as the L.I.I.T., it still packs a punch.
For only a buck per serving - all day every day throughout the month - it's easy to embrace your rum-loving side. When a tasty cocktail is only $1, every hour is happy as hell . . . we know what our weekend plans will be all month long!
Image Source: Oxygen
Now, who needs a drink? Cheers!
I Was Still Pregnant at 42 Weeks, and This Is What Happened Next
I pride myself on being on time. As a type-A, anxious overachiever, I am used to delivering projects ahead of schedule and under budget. I graduated from college in three years instead of four. I like to get places early, I like not feeling rushed, and most of all, I really, really like to plan.
Having a baby is something that everyone thinks can be planned. You think you can plan when you get pregnant, until you learn - often the hard way - that it always happens when it happens. I remember once saying that the only time of year to have a baby is between March and May, and why on earth would anyone do it any other time? I was 20. (Let the record show that my second kid was born in January. BECAUSE THAT'S WHEN IT HAPPENED.)
I love it when I overhear nonparents saying things now about their plans for having a baby in the future. "We're definitely going to have a baby in 2018." "For my job, Winter is the best time to take paternity leave, so we'll do that." And, my favorite, "We just booked a trip to [insert foreign country or relaxing beach destination] for when our unborn baby will be about 3 months old. We'll all be ready to travel then, right?"
I'm not saying any of this to be mean or to laugh at those sweet, naive innocents. I used to be one of them.
My first baby was due on May 18. We were too anxious to be excited, too organized to get caught up in whimsy. We were busy planning. We took classes on "Choices in Childbirth" and wrote a birth plan. We hired a labor doula and a postpartum doula. We made meal plans and grocery lists and bought heavy flow pads for postpartum bleeding. We froze those organic cotton pads, soaked in organic witch hazel, so that they would be soothing during recovery. We took a class on breastfeeding and infant massage. We made spreadsheets. We were Prepared with a capital P.
I left my job at a tech startup in April so that I would have exactly six weeks to "nest." I took prenatal yoga and did acupuncture. Our Jewish traditions kept us from setting up a nursery, but we sent lists to relatives of what to buy as soon as the baby was born, complete with instructions on what all-natural, unscented detergent to use when washing it all.
It was a lot of planning to hide our fears.
In case you're starting to hate us a little bit reading this, yes, it was a lot. It was a lot of planning to hide our fears and anxieties about the huge change we were about to go through. Even though I knew that intellectually, it wasn't until the evening of May 18 that I finally realized what was going on.
I. Had. No. Control. Over anything. Ever again. And it was terrifying.
That night, when it became clear that even if I went into labor that very moment, I was not going to give birth on the 18th as planned, I collapsed on our couch with a pint of ice cream.
"I'm a failure," I said to my husband, hogging the ice cream.
"How do you figure that?" he asked patiently.
"We promised everyone a baby on May 18. It's May 18. There is no baby."
My loving, patient husband reminded me that only about five percent of women actually give birth on their due date. We learned that in Choices in Childbirth. Or was it Newborn Care?
I knew that. Of course. No one preps and plans as much as I did without taking in all the statistics, but I still thought that my baby would arrive on time because that's how we roll in this family. It didn't make logical sense, but please remember I was officially 10 months pregnant if you do the math.
I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders. I somehow had gotten the idea that I was letting down everyone in my life by not producing my baby on time.
I somehow had gotten the idea that I was letting down everyone in my life by not producing my baby on time.
On May 19, even though we'd been pretty quiet about our pregnancy on social media, friends started posing messages on my Facebook wall to the tune of "No baby yet?" and "OMG, so exciting, are you in labor right now?!" even though absolutely nothing was happening in that department. I felt like a fraud.
"Maybe this baby is never coming out," I said to my husband that night. He had kindly brought home a new pint of ice cream for me.
"That's not really an option," he said patiently (did I mention he is really, really patient?!). "One way or another, you'll have this baby soon. Let's try and enjoy this extra time."
Ha! A nice thought. But anyone who has ever been 40 weeks pregnant, or 41, as I soon was, can tell you that the "enjoy" ship has sailed by then. I was beyond uncomfortable. It hurt to sit, it hurt to stand, and lying down was misery. My belly was so huge that lying on my side, as pregnant women are told to, caused insane hip pain. I spent my nights on the couch so my tossing and turning didn't wake my husband, flipping from side to side every hour to relieve the pain. I used a careful assortment of pillows to support my back, my legs, my knees, and my ginormous belly. Not that it helped.
During the days, I walked. I huffed and puffed around Brooklyn, because carrying around 42 weeks' worth of baby and pregnancy is hard, and with my short torso, there was very little room for my lungs to inflate. I ignored the guy on my block who liked to ask if I was having triplets. It seemed like most people hadn't ever seen an overdue pregnant woman. No, we are not having triplets, that is just how it looks to lug around a fully grown child.
Every night I went to sleep thinking, "Surely this is it!," only to wake every morning like Bill Murray in Groundhog Day, with the proverbial "I Got You Babe" playing again.
My husband and I went to the park. We took long walks. We got a lot of iced coffees. We polished off many more pints of ice cream. We went to the movies and I missed many a climactic scene to go pee. We schlepped to Manhattan's Upper East Side every other day for hospital-mandated post-due-date non-stress tests to make sure the baby and I were both fine. We were. And then, suddenly, I was 41 weeks and five days pregnant. (The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women be induced before 42 weeks of pregnancy, as complications are far more likely to occur after that date.)
We had been trying all the usual tricks to get labor started since 40 weeks - spicy food, sex, rigorous walks, acupuncture, reflexology - and had reached the end of the line. As my husband had said, this baby had to come out one way or another.
We went to sleep one last time, the night before our scheduled induction. The hardest part of that for me, besides the fear of all the pain and possible complications, was that induction usually takes a day or two, which pointed to our baby being born in the early hours of June 1.
"I want a May baby," I sobbed. "I was promised a May baby!" I'd like to pause again here to point out that I was, for all intents and purposes, 42 weeks pregnant. I hate to throw my hormones under the bus, but I was possibly not in my most rational frame of mind.
The bottom line is that, after all that, my body knew what to do.
Expecting to wake to the strains of "I Got You Babe," I awoke instead to mild contractions on the morning of May 30 and proceeded to give birth later that day. Not to skip over all those exciting details, but the bottom line is that, after all that, my body knew what to do. The baby and I were both waiting for the right moment. When that right moment came, it all unfolded exactly like they said it would in Choices in Childbirth.
Our daughter weighed in at just under 7 pounds, proving that she probably needed every last moment of those 42 weeks to "cook." I am guessing she was also just really comfortable and didn't feel like coming out any sooner than she absolutely had to. She gets that from me - I know the feeling - and besides, when I was born back in the 1980s, I was a full three weeks late. (Yes, the doctors let my mom go 43 weeks, and yes, she's a hero.)
Moral of the story: sometimes you just can't control everything, or, well, anything, no matter how hard you try, and in the end, it doesn't really matter. I'm not going to pretend that it was smooth sailing from there because, hello, postpartum anxiety and breastfeeding challenges, but the baby and I were happy and healthy overall and my patient husband continues to be amazing.
We even eventually decided to do that whole baby thing again, and welcomed our son at 41-plus weeks in between January blizzards. This time, no one ever once even mentioned my due date, induction, or what would happen if I went to 42 weeks again. And I was way too busy enjoying the crazy chaos of my unpredictable life to even wonder.
Mark Your Calendars, Because the Trading Spaces Reboot Has an Official Premiere Date!
Update: TLC's Trading Spaces reboot finally has a premiere date! The show will return on Saturday, April 7, at 9 p.m. EST, according to the Trading Spaces Facebook page. Before the new premiere, TLC will air a reunion special at 8 p.m. Mark your calendars!
Original story: The countdown to the return of TLC's Trading Spaces is officially on, and we have new reasons to get excited about it! The early 2000s show was known for its not-so-happy endings and hilarious homeowner reactions during the big reveals, and the producers can confirm viewers are going to get more of the same drama this time around. "Not every episode has a happy ending," TLC's executive vice president of development and production, Howard Lee, said in an interview with TV Guide. It sounds entertaining already.
As for the hosts, you'll see the same familiar faces. Both Paige Davis and Ty Pennington are returning, so get ready to see them back in action. The carpenter is featured on a recent cover of TV Guide and shared a photo of the issue on Instagram, writing, "We're back!"
All in all, not much will be different about the reboot, even though the show is returning to TV a whole decade later. Remember the $1,000 per room budget? That's only been increased to $2,000, a refreshingly realistic number compared to the lofty budgets that have become the norm on other home-renovation shows. Howard Lee expanded on that, saying, "Viewers have become so accustomed to seeing designs done for $50,000 or $100,000. I think this will be inspiring."
With Ty Pennington's hint about the same old-school charm of the show, we can't wait to feel a wave of nostalgia as we tune back in this Spring. "Most shows now are all reveals of white and beige rooms with a ton of candles and the homeowners loving it," he said. "With us, there's always that question mark."
Bruno Mars and Cardi B's Grammys Performance Is the '90s Party You Always Wanted to Go To
Bruno Mars and Cardi B were on another level when they sang their hit song "Finesse" together at the Grammys on Sunday night. Just like their colorful music video, the duo went old school with a fun-filled '90s theme. Seriously, it was like the party we all wished we could have attended when we were kids. As if Cardi's rap wasn't enough to get you pumped, Bruno, who is nominated for six awards including album of the year, sent fans into a frenzy when he flawlessly moonwalked down the stage. Needless to say, it didn't take long for celebs like Chrissy Teigen to jump to their feet and start dancing in the audience.
mercredi 31 janvier 2018
Hot Cheetos-Infused Vanilla Ice Cream Is Real, and We Can't Help but Say Hot Damn!
We've seen Flamin' Hot Cheetos macarons, elote, bagels, and now there's . . . ice cream! Drill'd Ice Cream in Fountain Valley, CA, has a special ice cream called Hot as Hell, which is "a blend of vanilla ice cream and Hot Cheetos topped with crushed Hot Cheetos."
Take a minute to absorb that description, because if you love Hot Cheetos, then this is right up your alley. You get the satisfaction of having the chips mixed in with the ice cream and also dusted on top, lending the perfect texture and extra flavor. You can order it in a cup, a regular cone, or a unicone (a unicorn-inspired cone), so get ready to savor this swirly fire-and-ice combination.
12 Cheap Amazon Prime Gems For Foodies - Everything Is Under $29
If you've ever gotten lost in Amazon's beautiful stream of retro kitchen goodies, especially those that every food-lovin' person needs (or, you know, wants to put on their Instagram), you're not alone. Whether you dream of the day you'll own a multipurpose stovetop/coffee maker/toaster oven appliance, or just wish you had some oven mitts that looked more like bear claws, we found 12 kitchen products you can't beat, all available on Amazon Prime. Look ahead, and prepare to swoon.
Why Gordon Ramsay's Sticky Toffee Pudding Is the Best Thing on the Menu at Hell's Kitchen
If you're thinking about getting a reservation at Gordon Ramsay's new Hell's Kitchen restaurant in Las Vegas, there's one important question to consider: what should you order? The menu is full of enticing entrees and appetizers that will jump out at you, like the incomparable beef Wellington and the tender Wagyu meatballs with slow-roasted tomato sauce and polenta croutons. It's the kind of place where you'll want to share multiple dishes with your table because there are so many flavors to savor. But there's gotta be one thing that stands out the most, right? To find out from the best possible source, I asked Gordon Ramsay face to face, "What's the best thing on the menu?"
"That's a really good question," Gordon said. He thought about it, mentally going through options, and then responded, "Every time I put a new version of my sticky toffee pudding, f*cking thing just gets better and better. I don't know whether it's the salted caramel or the amount of toffee that we steep inside." Sticky toffee pudding, a traditional British sponge-cake dessert, is something Gordon has been making for years, but he's improved upon it and changed up the ingredients many times. At Hell's Kitchen, it's drenched in salted caramel and topped with speculoos ice cream. And yes, it's ridiculously good.
"We've modernized it in a way that we give you your own little sort of tray bake," Gordon said. One order of sticky toffee pudding (pictured above) is big enough for two or three people to share, depending on how much room you have left after dinner. The cake is warm, soft, and bursting with comforting flavors of brown sugar and vanilla, and the cold speculoos ice cream on top takes the decadence over the edge. Hell's Kitchen at Caesars Palace isn't a restaurant you'll likely be visiting on a regular basis, so don't pass up your chance to try this can't-miss dessert.
Sip on This: The Truffle Cocktail and Other Top Drink Trends For 2018
If the last few years in cocktails have been marked by the moscow mule, it seems that things are about to change. New flavor profiles and a resurgence of liquors, including gin and mezcal, are hitting the palate in a big way, and more consumers are looking for richer, more in-depth cocktail concoctions.
"People are becoming more aware of what they are ordering and have access to a ton of information," Kyle Tran, beverage director at the New York, NY-based Library of Distilled Spirits, told POPSUGAR. "They come in and they want to almost stump you, but are really open to having a conversation about their favorite drinks. They will tell you what they like and then ask what you can make them that's similar but with a new twist," he said.
Additionally, he said, fresh ingredients and new flavors have been top of mind for the imbibing crowd this year, including the Library of Distilled Spirits's signature drink, the Madman, made with black truffle.
"It really is good, fresh ingredients that people care about in their cocktails, and we are lucky enough to have access to great ingredients. This allows us to expand the cocktail list a bit while also offering customers new flavors that they may not have had before," said Tran.
Evan Hosaka, lead bartender at Rosina inside The Palazzo Las Vegas, echoed Tran's sentiments, telling POPSUGAR that a modern twist on the classics will continue to trend in popularity this year, but seasonal ingredients and customization will be the key. To that, he explained that Rosina offers a beverage called The Seasonal Fix. Guests can customize the beverage with their liquor of choice, and it is served with seasonal ingredients such as muddled fruit and herbs.
Thomas Waugh, a 15-year craft libations veteran, noticed that consumers want both new and fresh but also reminders of yesteryear. For his new venture, The Pool Lounge, located in NYC, he chose a menu that riffs on classic drinks, celebrating the season's fruits, vegetables, spices, and even smoke. "We create drinks that focus on single flavors that are prime for the season," said Waugh. "The art is to amplify the flavors and achieve a multilayered complexity by building the recipes around them with complementary spirits and ingredients.
What else is going to be the drink in your cup this year? We have the scoop on the top-trending cocktails that will be making their way across the bar in 2018.
16 Love Stories to Read Before You See the Movie
There are a ton of books becoming movies, but if you'd rather read (and, later, see) something romantic, we've got you covered. There are several beautiful love stories in the works, while some are on the racier side (hello, Fifty Shades). Find your next romance to get sucked into - and then see if you can imagine your favorite actors as the love interests!
Winter Reading List: 47 Books to Curl Up With Before They're Movies
There's nothing more hygge than grabbing a good book and reading in front of a roaring fire during this cold weather - but you need tools for that. While you will have to figure out your own fireplace situation, we can furnish you with reading inspiration. There are some excellent books being made into movies and TV shows next year, and we have a big, handy list of all the books that are in the process of being adapted. Some hot recent titles like The Hate U Give are in here, along with titles from authors of other successful adaptations, like Big Little Lies' Liane Moriarty.
Prince William and Kate Middleton Have a Field Day Playing Hockey in Sweden
Prince William and Kate Middleton have officially kicked off their royal tour in Sweden and Norway, with a spot of hockey. The couple showed off their athletic side and got stuck into a game of Bandy hockey, which is similar to ice hockey. Judging from the pictures, they had a blast doing so. The Duke and Duchess wore matching bobble hats while playing the sport, and now we need to coordinate matching hats with our significant other.
The royal couple will be visiting Sweden for two days, before heading to Norway for another two days. In a statement, they said that they hope to "meet as many Swedes and Norwegians as possible" on their trip. Kate and William's packed morning of hockey will be followed by lunch at Royal Palace of Stockholm hosted by King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia, to officially welcome them to Sweden. They will end their day at a black-tie dinner at the Residence of the British Ambassador.
Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn Could Melt Snow With Their Steamy PDA
Sam Smith and Brandon Flynn appear to be on cloud nine ever since confirming their romance late last year. Following their Grammys date night, the couple was spotted packing on the PDA while walking Brandon's dog, Charlie, in NYC on Monday. In addition to holding hands and exchanging a few loving glances, Sam and the 13 Reasons Why actor stopped to share a few kisses on the street.
Sam and Brandon first ignited romance rumors when they were spotted making out in the Big Apple back in October 2017, and shortly after, Sam confirmed he was officially off the market during a stop on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Can you imagine if Sam made a surprise appearance on season two of 13 Reasons Why? We could only dream.
8 Rare Glimpses We've Gotten of Ed Sheeran and Cherry Seaborn's Romance
It isn't hard to tell that Ed Sheeran is head over heels for his fiancée, Cherry Seaborn. Aside from writing a few songs about the 25-year-old, including the wedding-worthy "Perfect," the two always look madly in love whenever they're together.
Although they have been pretty private about their romance since they began dating in September 2015, they have given us a few glimpses of their love from time to time. Whether they're photobombing Taylor Swift at her Fourth of July party or they're grabbing a drink with Calvin Harris in Las Vegas, it's clear that these two make a "perfect" pair. See their sweetest moments ahead.
A Live-Action Anastasia Movie Is in the Works, but There's a Really Unexpected Twist
Following the ongoing trend in the movie and television industry, the story of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna is getting reimagined in a new live-action movie, Variety reports. The upcoming movie is not, however, affiliated with 21st Century Fox's 1997 animated movie Anastasia. Instead, it will portray an entirely new and fantastical story in which Anastasia discovers a portal that leads to the year 1988.
Emily Carey has already been announced as the movie's titular character. The 14-year-old actress previously portrayed a young Diana Prince in Wonder Woman, so she clearly has the chops to play another smart, scrappy young heroine. Joining her is Brandon Routh of Legends of Tomorrow fame, who is on board as Anastasia's father, Czar Nicholas II.
Production reportedly already began last Summer on the scenes set in 1988 and shooting is set to continue in April on the 1917 scenes. The director, Blake Harris, previously adapted The Little Mermaid based on the original Hans Christian Andersen novel of the same name. Though this movie is already underway, it's certainly not out of the question for Disney - who recently purchased 21st Century Fox - to create a live-action version of its animated classic sometime in the future.
How the Grammys Failed Women and the #MeToo Movement This Year
Image Source: Getty / Christopher Polk
Everywhere you looked at the Grammys on Sunday night, there were white roses. Artists, both male and female, proudly wore the flower on the red carpet to show support for the Time's Up movement, which was created ahead of the Golden Globes in an effort to combat workplace sexual harassment and assault across industries for women. As nice as it was to see musicians, actors, and even Grammys host himself James Corden incorporating white roses into their ensembles, the gesture felt hollow by the end of the night. All the flowers in the world don't mean anything if the music industry isn't actually honoring women for their hard work and talent, or at the very least, speaking out about #MeToo and the tidal wave of sexual assault and harassment claims that have dominated the national conversation over the past few months.
As the three-and-a-half-hour award show wore on, it soon became glaringly clear that, while there were an incredible selection of female performers and presenters on hand, very few women were actually stepping onstage to accept any awards. In fact, best new artist winner Alessia Cara was the only female musician to win a major Grammy. The dissonance was so jarring that it even spurred the hashtag #GrammysSoMale on Twitter. With so many immensely talented women in the music industry right now - many of whom were nominated - how did this happen?
If you ask Recording Academy president Neil Portnow, who obviously subscribes to the Bono school of musical thought, it's because they need to try harder. When questioned about the disproportionate amount of male to female winners by Variety after the Grammys, Portnow had this to say:
"It has to begin with . . . women who have the creativity in their hearts and souls, who want to be musicians, who want to be engineers, producers, and want to be part of the industry on the executive level. [They need] to step up because I think they would be welcome. I don't have personal experience of those kinds of brick walls that you face but I think it's upon us - us as an industry - to make the welcome mat very obvious, breeding opportunities for all people who want to be creative and paying it forward and creating that next generation of artists."
They need to "step up"? Really? To act as though the quality of albums that came out last year aren't on par with Grammys standards is to be willfully obtuse. I can only assume Portnow hasn't heard a single track off of Lady Gaga's Joanne, or a single second of Kesha's Rainbow. Or how about Kelly Clarkson's Meaning of Life? And Pink's Beautiful Trauma? All four of the aforementioned women were nominated for best pop performance for singles from those albums, but lost to Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You." Is "Shape of You" a good, catchy song? Yes. Is it deserving of an award? Sure, why not. Is it deserving of this award? Not in the slightest.
Pictured: Recording Academy President Neil Portnow. Image Source: Getty / Slaven Vlasic
I can only assume Portnow hasn't heard a single track off of Lady Gaga's Joanne, or a single second of Kesha's Rainbow.
The Grammys paraded people up and down their red carpet with white roses pinned to their lapels, but neglected to bring up #MeToo during the telecast, with the exception of Janelle Monáe, whose passionate introduction of Kesha's performance touched on "pay inequality, discrimination, harassment of any kind, and the abuse of power." Awarding Kesha with a Grammy for "Praying," which is about forgiving her rapist and surviving a waking nightmare, would have been the perfect opportunity to actually make those roses mean something. Not only that, but "Praying" is vocally stunning and Kesha's best work to date. In a similar vein, Gaga's "Million Reasons" is about recovering from devastating, life-altering heartbreak. Clarkson's "Love So Soft" is a soulful single from the first album she was able to make free from Clive Davis's control. Pink's "What About Us" is one of her most brutally honest tracks so far, complete with awe-inspiring vocals.
Sheeran's song is about the body of an anonymous woman in a club.
Best pop vocal performance wasn't the only major slip-up the Grammys made. Where was Lorde's solo performance? As the only female album of the year nominee, it was shocking to see her get zero stage time despite attending the show. A great deal of time was allotted for both U2 and Sting's solo performances, even though neither were nominated. Yes, Sting and U2 remain strong performers and fan favorites, but wouldn't those precious minutes have been better spent honoring one of the few women whose work got a high-profile Grammy nod this year? When asked about the decision to not to give Lorde a moment onstage by Variety, Grammys producer Ken Ehrlich deflected.
"I don't know if it was a mistake," he said. "These shows are a matter of choices. We have a box and it gets full. She had a great album. There's no way we can really deal with everybody." He also noted that things might change next year when Taylor Swift's Reputation becomes eligible for nomination, saying, "It wasn't her year. She was kind of off cycle. Hopefully we'll see her next year."
That's all well and good, but the Grammys don't need Taylor Swift in the building in order to give out a trophy to a female artist. Reputation is arguably the weakest of Swift's discography, paling in comparison to the emotional depth of Kesha's Rainbow and the lyrical ingenuity of Lorde's Melodrama. The fact those two albums barely made an impact on the Recording Academy this year is a tragedy, one that can't be fixed by flowers or pins.
Angelina Jolie and Her Kids Get Cultured During a Family Museum Day in Paris
Angelina Jolie brought her six kids - Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, Vivienne, and Knox Jolie-Pitt - to the Louvre for an afternoon of culture in Paris on Tuesday. The First They Killed My Father director bundled up in a sleek black coat and heels as she and her brood left the Hotel de Maurice before making their way to the historic museum. Before touching down in the City of Light, Angelina traveled to Zaatari, Jordan, to visit a Syrian refugee camp. While there, she held a press conference and called for a political solution to Syria's civil war, saying that "humanitarian aid is not a long-term solution."
Between her philanthropic efforts, Angelina has also made time to hit a few red carpets and has been bringing her kids along for the fun. Earlier this month, 14-year-old Pax was her date to the Golden Globes, where Angelina avoided a potentially awkward run-in with Jennifer Aniston. Angelina also brought daughters Shiloh and Zahara to the National Board of Review Awards gala, where they matched in all-black outfits.
Kiernan Shipka Has Already Accomplished So Much at Such a Young Age
Kiernan Shipka is making waves in Hollywood. The actress, who is best known for her role as Sally Draper on Mad Men, recently nabbed the lead role of Sabrina Spellman in the upcoming Netflix series The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina. Given that Kiernan has been in the industry for quite a few years now and has two SAG Awards under her belt, it's easy to forget how old she is - or, in this case, how young she is. So, let's settle this once and for all: Kiernan was born on Nov. 10, 1999, making her 18. We can't wait to see what she has in store for us as Sabrina!
Pink Gets a Kiss From Her Daughter in Powerful "Wild Hearts" Music Video
Fresh off of her stunning, stripped-down performance of "Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken" at the Grammys, Pink debuted a similarly simple music video accompaniment for the ballad. The video was shot in black and white and features the singer dressed in a white tank top and jeans as she belts out the song's powerful lyrics: "There's not enough rope to tie me down, there's not enough tape to shut this mouth / The stones you throw can make me bleed, but I won't stop until we're free / Wild hearts can't be broken."
Of course, her impressive vocals aren't the only amazing thing about the video. Around the 1:25 mark, Pink's daughter, 6-year-old Willow, pops up in a surprise appearance. Willow snuggles up to her mom, and at the end of the video, she plants a sweet kiss on her cheek. The singer also used the video as a way to raise awareness for her work with UNICEF, which she hopes will save and protect children around the world.
"As a UNICEF Ambassador, I am proud to work with an organization that supports and empowers women and children around the world," she said in a press release. "In honor of this incredible organization, in honor of this video for 'Wild Hearts,' and in honor of girls and woman all over the world standing up for themselves, I am going to be making a donation in all of your names to this wonderful organization, and I encourage you to do the same if the spirit moves you."
Watch the video above!
16 Things We Know About The Handmaid's Tale Season 2
We're officially in some new fresh hell in 2018, and when it comes to The Handmaid's Tale, we're already looking ahead. If you read the book, you'll know that the first season finale ends in the same frustrating way the book ends: June is taken into a mysterious van and carted off to a mysterious future somewhere else. In this case, though, we don't have to wonder endlessly. How much can we uncover about the show's next chapter? Well, blessed be the fruit - we've got a lot to go over. Let's see what we could uncover (under his eye).
1. It's Going to Be Longer
While the first season was 10 episodes, the second has been extended to 13.
2. Alexis Bledel Will Reprise Her Role
Thought you'd seen the last of Ofglen/Emily? Not so fast. Bledel has been confirmed as part of season two's cast! We'll get a glimpse of Ofglen in the Colonies, the toxic wasteland where women who commit crimes are sent as punishment. "We get to see the colonies. It's a terrible place where they send Unwomen to work them to death," executive producer Bruce Miller said during a pre-Emmy panel in August. Bledel also commented on her character's new situation, saying, "I'm very interested to see what that looks like because it's a completely different world we haven't seen on the show yet - and I'm scared."
3. The Colonies Are Even Bleaker and Darker Than They Sound
A new feature by Marie Claire describes the Colonies in all their grim glory. As a refresher, the Colonies are where deviants (known as Unwomen) get sent for misbehaving. The new story describes the Colonies as "a dark and grime-filled wasteland." Costume designer Ane Crabtree offered a bit more insight. "The Unwomen are kind of the new Handmaids in season two. They're turning over soil, trying to move radiation, so they get filthy," she revealed. "They have probably six months - at best two years - to live. We're trying to show that humanity in their costumes. I made beautiful sheer pieces to be worn under their outfits since they strip down, as their clothing is full of radiation." Yikes.
4. The Trailer Is DARK
Here, we get a glimpse of all the mayhem that lies ahead. Offred is covered in blood and lighting things on fire! The Colonies are here, and they look f*cking awful! Tension is surely bubbling over, and we can't imagine what else this next bank of episodes might hold.
5. Surprise, Surprise: The President Has Inspired Parts of the Season
While season one of the show was planned before the 2016 election, the same is not true for season two. When it comes to some of Trump's "draconian policies," as Marie Claire phrases it, creator Bruce Miller can't help but incorporate today's reality into the fabric of the show. "Oh, I think we can't help but let it influence us," he said. "We have let it influence us. And there are a lot of issues we brought up last year that we want to address this year in ways we never had time to."
6. Things Are Only Going to Get Worse All Around
Earlier this month, The Pool interviewed Elisabeth Moss and grilled her on what's to come. "Wait till you see what's coming! It's going to get worse, girl. Season two is going to be bad too, really dark." Here we were, thinking June might have been rescued from the Waterfords. Maybe it's not that simple.
7. June Is Covered in Blood in a First Photo
You might remember how ruthlessly June is whisked away at the end of season one. We have no idea who takes her or where she even ends up. But if the first pictures of the season are any indication, she is certainly not safe. We're rooting for you, June!
8. June's Romance With Nick May Intensify
Elle ran a profile of Moss in early June, and she dropped a small tidbit about her Gilead lover, Nick. "It's part of the reason that I'm really excited about a season two, she's in this position where she might be in love with two people," Moss said, "Honestly, I think she does love Nick - if I can speak for her - but I don't know if she knows that she does yet. But she has a husband who she also loves, who's the father of Hannah, who she also now knows is alive."
9. Pay Attention to the Marthas
Showrunner Bruce Miller noted, "The Marthas in general in Gilead are kind of invisible . . . it's been great for us that it's been such a slow and careful building of a relationship between Rita and Offred. That slow and careful build-up in season one leads to a payoff so that we can use her more in season two."
10. We Might See Aunt Lydia's Backstory
Meanwhile, Miller also spoke to The New York Times about season two. Aunt Lydia could still play a key role in the show's next chapter. "Aunt Lydia is one of my most fascinating characters," Miller said. "We would like to explore her back story, and what the lives of the aunts are like."
11. The Mayday Resistance Is Another Key Component, but Let's Not Get Too Excited
It's easy to assume Mayday means salvation for the Handmaids, but not so fast. "The Mayday resistance is going to be a big part of Season two," Miller admitted. "The part that I've been thinking about is that Mayday is not the handmaid rescue organization - it's the anti-Gilead organization. And the anti-Gilead organization is not necessarily a friend to June or a friend to Handmaids. If I was going to try to hurt Gilead, the first thing I might do is kill all the handmaids. You're trying to weaken the state."
12. The Waterfords Aren't Necessarily Going Away
After the finale, Miller talked about what's to come. In regards to the Waterfords, he said, "They're still a part of our plans for season two but in interesting ways."
13. We Will Meet June's Mother
Miller also explained how June's parentage could factor into the story. Miller spoke about June's mother: "We've been thinking about her a lot. June's mother is a big character in the book and representative of an interesting kind of feminism that was seemingly more of that time."
14. The Theme
"At the end of season one, we find out June was pregnant. The theme of season two is motherhood and what it means to be a mother," Miller explained at The Handmaid's Tale panel in August. "It's the way we mother our good friends and the people in our lives."
15. Luke and Moira Might Attempt a Daring Rescue
During the panel in August, Samira Wiley discussed the new possibilities season two holds since it's going beyond the story of the book. "The [first] season ends exactly where the book ends, and to be able to go in season two not knowing what's going to happen and to be in this completely new country with Luke who's the only family I have, it's exciting to see what's going to happen," she said.
16. The Premiere Date Has Been Set
The second season is going to drop on April 25. Are you ready for it?
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