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.
samedi 17 mars 2018
Rupert Grint Got a Shout-Out in the Half-Blood Prince Novel - and You Probably Missed It
Image Source: Everett Collection
By the time the Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince novel was released, the fourth movie (Goblet of Fire) was on the verge of coming out. This meant that Rupert Grint was already an established member of our favorite magical trio as Ron Weasley, loved perhaps most especially for his gratuitous usage of "bloody hell" to express his surprise, fear, excitement, and pretty much any other emotion.
In Half-Blood Prince, the pompous (but arguably endearing) character of Professor Slughorn is introduced, whose talent for choosing gifted students to include among his exclusive ranks rivals his penchant for potions.
So, the fact that Slughorn calls Ron the wrong name isn't all that surprising considering this mistake is made in line with the professor's disregard of students who don't fit his standards of "promising" wizards. Ron (to Slughorn) is forgettable.
What is notable is the small shout-out to actor Grint when Slughorn slips up upon discussing Ron's incident of accidentally drinking poison instead of a tonic for someone who'd ingested the love potion Amortentia. In the 2005 Bloomsbury edition of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince on page 454, J.K. Rowling gives Grint a subtle nod in the novel by having Slughorn call Ron by the name of Rupert on accident. The tiny detail is easy to miss, but the fact that Rowling snuck it in certainly makes us smile. See the passage ahead for the mention of "Rupert" instead of "Ron."
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Hilary White
10 Harry Potter Theories You Won't Be Able to Wrap Your Head Around
The last Harry Potter book came out nine years ago, but that hasn't stopped Potterheads from analyzing every aspect of the series. Plenty of theories surfaced in 2016 like Draco Malfoy possibly being a werewolf, a plot twist in what the Deathly Hallows stands for, and heartwarming ideas about Neville Longbottom. Before you reread the series again, check out the favorite theories we read about this year - many of which have been around for ages.
This Black Hole GIF Is Utterly Mesmerizing
This might be just a simulation of two merging black holes, but it's still insane to look at. Uploaded on Reddit, the GIF made it to the front page and has collected more than 1,000 comments so far.
But as a commenter pointed out, it's actually the work of SXS, or Simulating eXtreme Spacetimes. This group of researchers from Caltech and Cornell University simulate extreme space times to better understand physics in the cosmos. They also produced a paper about the project called "What would a binary black hole merger look like?" and an accompanying video.
What, exactly, would happen if two black holes collided? They would probably merge to become one bigger black hole, but it would be extremely violent, producing enormous amounts of energy and sending gigantic ripples through the universe called gravitational waves. Amazing.
Harry Potter Fans Will Absolutely Love What This Woman Did With Her Wall
Harry Potter fans have gone to great lengths to show their love for the series, but what this one woman did is something worth copying immediately. Meredith McCardle, Florida-based author and hardcore HP follower, hand-painted the entire first page of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone onto her wall. The result is something out of a dream.
So I hand painted the first page of Harry Potter on my wall because I'm a huge nerd. #hpforever @jk_rowling pic.twitter.com/kpYqecZLzq
- Meredith McCardle (@MeredithMcP) April 25, 2016
According to her tweet, the project required an "overhead projector, a can of paint, a steady hand, and a crap load of patience." Even J.K. Rowling herself seemed to love it.
OMG. This is a thing that just happened. THIS IS A THING THAT JUST HAPPENED. pic.twitter.com/4yU3kRLJmj
- Meredith McCardle (@MeredithMcP) April 25, 2016
This is definitely one of the best diehard Potterhead ideas ever - and we love it.
This post was originally published on May 14, 2015.
11 Hilarious Cat Caves That Look So Comfy, We Wish They Came in Our Size
Spoiling my cat is the total norm these days. In the past, no matter how comfy of a bed I bought, they never seemed to stick until I discovered these comfortable pet caves. These warm and cozy beds feel more like being wrapped in a burrito, so we can see why it's hard to leave. So if you want to treat your feline, we rounded up a list of our favorites. From fish- and mice-inspired picks to a even a teepee, you'll love these hilarious finds.
For the Love of God, Please Stop Saying These Slang Words
For better or worse, the English language has undergone some major changes in recent years - Oxford Dictionaries crowned an emoji word of the year and slang played an integral part of social media, more than ever before. But some of these slang words have been so overplayed, they need to go away . . . stat. Ahead, check out 12 terms that everyone should stop saying and replace with these instead - amirite?!
39 Disney World Facts That Even Die-Hard Fans Don't Know
The happiest place on Earth also happens to be one of the most interesting. Disney World has been around for nearly half a century, and with age comes good stories - and lots of them. We've rounded up 39 Disney World secrets even die-hard fans will be shocked to discover.
If you can't get enough Disney, check out our posts full of tips and facts:
25 Photos All Disneyland Fans Must Take on Their Next Trip
So you've booked your plane tickets to Disneyland for its 60th anniversary - congrats! Before you enter the happiest place on Earth, you will want a fully charged phone and an extra portable charger. Because chances are your photo-snapping habits will go into overdrive once you walk through those enchanted gates. With so many attractions to ride, foods to eat, and princesses to meet, you're also likely to feel that Disney high. Ahead, we've compiled the must-take photos to match these must-see Disney sights.
Source: Flickr user andy castro
J.K. Rowling Dropped a Clue About Dumbledore's Death Way Sooner Than You Thought
If you consider yourself a Harry Potter expert, you're about to kick yourself and wonder why you never noticed this key element in the books before. Reddit user upyourjuicebox was reading Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and noticed a detail that suggests J.K. Rowling foreshadowed Dumbledore's death in the third book.
The referenced scene occurs at Hogwarts over Christmas; the sometimes-prophetic Professor Trelawney refuses to sit down at the dinner table because "when 13 people dine together the first to rise will die." Since Ron had his pet rat, Scabbers (who is also an animagus and can turn into the human Peter Pettigrew), in his pocket for most of the book, we can assume that he did during dinner as well. So, when Dumbledore stands to offer Trelawney a seat, he's actually the first person to stand! More evidence that this fan theory is true: both Mad Eye Moody and Sirius Black got up from tables where 13 people sat. Gasp! You can see the theory from the Reddit user below.
This fan's idea seems to coincide with Rowling's favorite fan theory: Dumbledore as an embodiment of death. Whether this theory is true, we're convinced to never stand up from a table of 13.
20 Reasons People Shouldn't Be Allowed on Social Media
Sometimes, humans are the worst. We scoured our social media feeds for the most-annoying things people post on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram - and came up with these 20 Internet crimes. These are the things that make you go "ew," "just stop," "no," and "BUT WHY." Without further ado, the posts that deserve a giant thumbs-down.
Source: Getty / Robyn Beck
Christy Turlington Burns Is Here to Make Childbirth Safe For Every Mother, Everywhere
Christy Turlington Burns is a mother, advocate, and founder and CEO of the maternal health organization Every Mother Counts. Having endured a childbirth complication herself, Christy was compelled to learn more about the global maternal health tragedy that claims the lives of over 300,000 women every year. She founded Every Mother Counts to educate others and invest in programs around the world to ensure all women have access to quality maternal health care. The organization currently works with 11 grantees in eight countries including the US, Tanzania, Haiti, and Bangladesh.The mission of Every Mother Counts is to make pregnancy and childbirth safe for every mother, everywhere. Keep scrolling to find out what drives this powerful mom of two, and support her organization this Mother's Day by sharing their #OrangeRose Mother's Day campaign.
DIYs to Nail the Perfect Bohemian Home For Less
While nothing beats scoring at a thrift store, pulling off a DIY can be the next best way to bag the boho look for less. If you've been eyeing hippie home fashion but can't swallow the irony of splurging to partake in some of the trends, these DIY decor tutorials will help you do just that. Check out the creative and surprisingly affordable options we've culled from around the web!
Source: The Hunted Interior, Preciously Me, Honestly WTF
30 Clever Home Hacks For Decor-Lovers
Sometimes it's the smallest tweaks that make the biggest difference at home. These decorating hacks solve common dilemmas while also elevating your home's style - a double win! Trust us, you'll want to clear out your weekend schedule for these.
- Additional reporting by Angela Elias
You Already Own the 1 Simple Product You Need to Clean Your Burnt Pan
The easiest way to save a scorched pan without scrubbing!
Posted by Blossom on Wednesday, August 31, 2016
Have you ever cooked something on the stove and totally scorched the pan? Sometimes the burnt remnants are impossible to clean. Luckily somebody found a solution for getting rid of those pesky scorched leftovers. BabyFirstTV posted a video with a trick that's so simple.
Fill the pan with dish soap and water, and add one more magic ingredient: a dryer sheet. Let the pan soak for one hour, then dump out the water and wipe the surface clean. The annoying scorched residue that wouldn't go away will be completely gone! We know it seems too good to be true, but it really works! Check out the video above for yourself.
The 1 Taco Version You'll Be Eating Through the Cold Season
We're going to go ahead and estimate that every person who loves tacos equally loves taco salads in the Summer and taco soup in the Winter - not that we're suggesting you set aside any iteration of your favorite dish pending on the weather outside; that would be foolish. But there's also no denying that there's just something about cozying up to a bowl of steamy soup at the end of a long and cold workday. That's why we've rounded up 12 supereasy ways to make taco soup. There's something here for the slow-cooker-lover, the carnivore, the vegetarian, and even the fit and healthy one.
16 Stylish Coats Inspired by Selena Gomez's Perfect Wardrobe
If you're searching for Winter outfit inspiration, look no further than Selena Gomez. This season, my personal style obsession with her has hit a whole new level. From her chic sneakers to pretty floral dresses, she's been on fire. And one thing she always get right is her outerwear. From long dusters to glossy rain coats, we want it all. We did a little research and uncovered some of her best looks and rounded up a list of stylish picks you can wear yourself.
You'll Want to Shop Selena Gomez's Sexy Swimsuits
You might think of celebrities on perma-vacations like Alessandra Ambrosio and Adriana Lima when you're looking for swimsuit inspiration, but we're telling you right now that Selena Gomez's beach style is the most versatile of them all.
Whenever the singer is ready to hit the water, she chooses both sexy bikinis and practical one-pieces that flatter her curves and still manage to be comfortable. So if you want to stock up, look ahead for lots of inspiration from Selena.
If This Fantastic Beasts Theory Is True, You'll Never Look at Nagini the Same Way Again
When the first teaser for Fantastic Beasts: the Crimes of Grindelwald dropped, we were immediately drawn to one particular detail regarding Credence and Leta Lestrange. But, as it turns out, the short clip might have contained another groundbreaking revelation that we weren't anticipating. While we know the actors who've joined the cast and their characters, it got us interested in one new addition in particular - and it looks like we're not alone.
Claudia Kim's character, listed on IMDB as "Maledictus," is Credence's new friend, and has a lot of fans talking about her potential future in the franchise. If a popular suspicion about her proves to be true, it means that we might have actually met her before.
According to this wonderfully dark theory, Voldemort's beloved snake and final horcrux Nagini could be a Maledictus - which in the wizarding world is a cursed witch who turns into an animal. Coincidentally, the studio confirmed that Kim's mysterious character is, in fact, a Maledictus herself. Fans quickly started theorizing that Kim might actually be destined to become Nagini. Particularly eagle-eyed fans also pointed out that her character is depicted on a poster at the circus, in the trailer, surrounded by snakes, adding even more fuel to the fire.
See? You can just make out the image of a woman wrapped in giant snakes in the poster on the left, with the word Maledictus underneath. Here's a closer look.
So, if the theory checks out, how would Kim's character eventually cross paths with Voldemort? Their intensely close bond is one of the more sinister aspects of the Harry Potter series, so we have a feeling something life-altering must have drawn them together and cemented their relationship.
While we might not know much else about Kim's character, we have managed to glean a lot of information about the film itself. Set in 1927, it will take us from London to New York City and Paris, and we're already looking forward to seeing more of Jude Law as a young and (very) handsome Dumbledore. The bad news is that we'll have to wait until November 2018 before all is revealed. The good news, however, is that the more we find out about the film, the more excited we are.
I Got Pregnant on My Wedding Night and Don't Regret a Single Thing
My husband and I knew we wanted to start a family soon after we got married. Um, soon turned out to be about five minutes after we walked down the aisle. OK, I'm exaggerating, but not by much. We welcomed our first daughter well before we celebrated our first wedding anniversary. Here's how it went down.
The night we got hitched, we agreed to ditch all birth control, and just "see what happened." What happened was, I got pregnant. I honestly could NOT believe it when, just weeks later, I took eight pregnancy tests, out of an abundance of caution, and saw a plus sign. On all of them. WTF?! All I'd ever heard from friends was that they'd tried to get pregnant for six months to a year after they got married before they actually conceived. No one gets pregnant on their first try, right? Yeah, that's a myth. And I'm living proof.
I truly believe becoming parents made our marriage stronger.
I'd like to say my shock morphed into joy upon finding out we were to become parents before we'd even received our wedding photo proofs. But I'd be lying. It took me several weeks for the news to settle in. It just felt like everything in my life had changed in an instant. Because it had. I had gone from single girl to a grown-up in the course of just a few weeks.
Luckily, my husband was overjoyed about the fact that was going to be a father, and his enthusiasm was eventually contagious. We enjoyed the pregnancy and, bonus, got tons more gifts just months after our wedding! The day our little girl was born trumped our wedding day as the best day of my life by a long shot.
Now, looking back almost ten years later, I am actually happy I got pregnant so early on in our relationship, even if we didn't exactly plan it that way. I truly believe becoming parents made our marriage stronger. And our daughter is the best thing that has ever happened to us. No, we never got to travel, or see what married life, just us, was all about. But I know how it feels to have an instant family to love and cherish, and I wouldn't change a thing.
The $32 Space Heater That Finally Made My Freezing Apartment Tolerable This Winter
My apartment doesn't have a heater. As a result, I normally spend the Winter cuddled up in flannel pajamas, an oversize bathrobe, fluffy socks, and extralarge slippers. This year, I decided to ditch the layers and invest in a space heater after I found this portable Lasko Ceramic Heater ($32) on Amazon. My apartment is old and hasn't been updated in a long time, so because of this I needed something that had low voltage. Years ago, my roommates and I had another space heater, but the voltage was so high that when we turned on another appliance, all of our electricity would go out. It became too much of a hassle, so we stopped using the heater. In my search for a new one, it was important to find something small yet mighty.
As soon as it arrived, I instantly turned it on and was impressed. My living room and bedroom are both on the large side, but within 10 minutes, they felt warmer. Now my favorite thing to do is stick it next to my feet while I'm watching TV or turn it on in my bedroom right before I take a shower so I can return to heated room. The lightweight design makes it easy for me to carry for room to room.
This Lasko heater was ideal because on a low setting it only uses 900 watts, meaning I could safely dry my hair at the same time. And if I want to turn it up, I can use the higher setting at 1,500 watts; I just make sure to not use any other large electronics simultaneously.
If voltage isn't a worry for you, this version of the Lasko Ceramic Heater ($39) is a little stronger (and it might ship faster).
I can safely say I'm totally reliant on it now.
11 Hilarious Cat Caves That Look So Comfy, We Wish They Came in Our Size
Spoiling my cat is the total norm these days. In the past, no matter how comfy of a bed I bought, they never seemed to stick until I discovered these comfortable pet caves. These warm and cozy beds feel more like being wrapped in a burrito, so we can see why it's hard to leave. So if you want to treat your feline, we rounded up a list of our favorites. From fish- and mice-inspired picks to a even a teepee, you'll love these hilarious finds.
vendredi 16 mars 2018
Fettuccine and Tagliatelle Are Not the Same Thing . . . Right?
Pasta-lovers, it's time to test your knowledge. Fettuccine and tagliatelle are two forms of long, thick-cut pasta you've probably seen on restaurant menus and eaten plenty of times, but do you know the real difference? If your answer is "no," you're on to something . . . because there's actually no difference at all. As I learned during my trip to Casa Buitoni in Tuscany (among other things, like how to make pasta from scratch), this popular cut of pasta is named two different things based on region. It's called fettuccine in Rome and Southern Italy, and it's referred to as tagliatelle in the Northern regions of Italy. But it's the exact same thing! As a self-proclaimed pasta addict who eats Italian food 99 percent of the time, I have to say this information even surprised me. Now I'll never confuse the two on a menu again.
What Is Ginger Beer, Anyway?
For a refreshment so popular, it's interesting to note how many misconceptions exist about ginger beer. The drink, which originated in the mid-1700s in England, was first known as a fermented alcoholic beverage made from sugar, ginger, water, and a starter culture known as ginger beer plant. But today, the name "ginger beer" is actually a misnomer, as most commercial ginger beer is a soft drink and contains no alcohol (although a few brands, such as Crabbie's, do).
In comparison to ginger ale, ginger beer is more robust in flavor with a spicy quality. Ginger beer can be enjoyed alone, but it also plays a starring role in cocktails such as the dark and stormy and the Moscow Mule. How do you like to drink it?
Sparkling, Seltzer, Soda: A Primer on Carbonated Water
Soda water, seltzer, club soda, sparkling water, mineral water: there are so many different fizzy waters out there. Are they all the same thing?
Carbonated water - water into which carbon dioxide has been dissolved - is a broad term that encompasses all fizzy waters; it's used interchangeably with sparkling water and soda water (a prewar term for the same thing). Within this category, there are several distinctions: seltzer, club soda, and mineral water.
Seltzer and club soda have both been artificially produced by passing pressurized carbon dioxide through water, but while seltzer contains no added ingredients or flavorings, club soda contains additives such as table salt, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium bicarbonate to add a slightly salty flavor.
In contrast, an effervescent mineral water such as Perrier or San Pellegrino is water that contains naturally occurring carbonation and minerals. Since it's bottled directly from a natural source, it tends to be pricier and has a more delicate effervescence than other carbonated waters. For these reasons, it's typically enjoyed alone, rather than used as a drink mixer.
The Best New Trader Joe's Products From 2017
One of the best things about Trader Joe's is that it's constantly releasing new products for customers to try, and we're not just talking about the free samples. Shopping at Trader Joe's is never boring thanks to the never-before-seen foods available every month, and 2017 was a fantastic year for the brand. We kept up with every single new offering from Trader Joe's to let you know which items are worth the purchase and which ones you should skip. Ahead, read up on all the best new Trader Joe's products of the year, and add your favorites to your shopping list the next time you head to TJ's.
- Additional reporting by Jamie Mieuli
21 #MealPrep Ideas That Are Anything but Boring
Do you #MealPrep? Meal prepping, or making your weekly breakfasts, lunches, and sometimes dinners ahead of time, is the craze sweeping the nation. Many self-confessed meal preppers often take to Instagram to show off their ingenuity and handiwork. People on special diets, such as Paleo or those on Weight Watchers, have long enjoyed meal prepping, since it can be hard to pick up dishes that conform to their strict needs on a whim.
Now, meal prepping is going mainstream as more and more people try to get a handle on the week ahead. It's also a great way to ensure you eat healthy and often for less than buying meals out. In fact, meal prepping is getting a downright gourmet makeover - check out these 21 inspiring examples of #mealprep!
The Best New Grocery Store Snacks of 2017
If you're anything like us, you're constantly thinking about food . . . especially snacks. That's why we embarked on the quest of finding the best new grocery store snacks of 2017, and there were plenty of irresistible options. We found a lot of inventive products that made the cut throughout the year, from vegan "beef" jerky to pasta-inspired chips and more. Read on to discover all the best new snacks we discovered - 91, to be exact - and be sure to make note of the ones that deserve a spot in your own shopping cart. When it comes to snacks, more is more!
This Target-Exclusive Ben & Jerry's Flavor Is Inspired by Camping (but It's Not Too In-Tents)
Speaking as a person who is constantly on the lookout for yet another reason to go to Target, this Ben & Jerry's news is extra exciting: you can reportedly only get the brand's latest flavor at Target stores, so if you want to taste it, you'll just have to make a Target run. (But don't worry, you're only going "for one thing" - what could possibly go wrong?) The flavor sounds worth the trip, too: it's called Glampfire Trail Mix, and according to the ice cream company, it's loaded with all the fixings of a decadent Glamping trip snack.
"Inspired by glampfire tales of outdoorsy getaways filled with indoorsy perks, our trail mix is uber-chocolaty, nutty, marshmallowed-&-pretzeled, so you can get lost in the dessert without leaving the yurt," reads the flavor description, which notes the flavor as a chocolate ice cream filled with pretzels, marshmallows, and fudge-covered almonds.
Junk food Instagrammer CandyHunting reports that Glampfire Trail Mix is a Target-exclusive flavor, so be sure to swing by the frozen section during your next shopping trip. And don't worry - if there's no Target near you, Ben & Jerry's has another new flavor, Gimme S'more, that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
The Truth Behind Costco’s $5 Rotisserie Chicken
Image Source: Flickr user terren in Virginia
We can always count on Dr. Oz to expose the truth about our favorite foods. He recently investigated the hidden ingredients in rotisserie chicken, and now we finally know why it's so addictive. He teamed up with award-winning writer Mark Schatzker to figure out why Americans can't get enough of the stuff, especially Costco's $5 rotisserie chicken.
The first shocking piece of information is that rotisserie chicken is often processed, in other words, "pre-seasoned in factories," and then shipped to supermarkets, where "an employee can put it on the skewer and cook it." You may already know part of what makes store-bought rotisserie chickens so tasty is that they're on the salty side, but the skin is also flavored with MSG and sugar, among other natural flavors. Similar to potato chips, this combination helps explain why we can never have too much rotisserie chicken. Despite the seemingly scariness of it all, Dr. Oz says it may be "one of the healthiest processed foods out there." And in similar Dr. Oz. fashion, he suggests taking off the skin to keep it healthier. But if that sounds like insanity, add other sides to your plate to avoid overeating.
Image Source: The Dr. Oz. ShowWatch the full video: Dr. Oz on rotisserie chicken
7-Eleven's New Tater Tot Bar Is Basically the Fried-Potato Playground of Your Dreams
Finally, somebody has recognized that there are only two main food groups: tater tots and not tater tots. Yes, 7-Eleven, which has long cornered the market on both sides of the main drink groups - Slurpees and not Slurpees - just launched a new feature that will make you feel like you've won the snack-food lottery. Introducing the tater tot topping bar, the glorious fried-potato playground of your dreams that will empower you to create the loaded tot creation that you've been envisioning but probably haven't had the resources for up until now.
Want tot-chos (tater tots + nachos)? Load your tots with pico de gallo, jalapeños, and onions. Chili-cheese tots? Load 'em up, baby. You can even top your nuggets of potatoey delight with ranch dressing, because you deserve it. According to Foodbeast, the tots are 10 for $1 or $2 for 25 . . . and the new toppings are worth a trip. The DIY tot bar is now available at participating 7-Eleven locations, so go forth and deck your tots with ALL the droolworthy toppings!
It's a difficult time to be alive, but at least @7eleven now has a tater tot toppings bar.
- Kara Baskin (@kcbaskin) March 14, 2018
7 eleven now sells tater tots 🖤 pic.twitter.com/2J5I8Te4YQ
- October 31st (@October_1331) March 2, 2018
@7eleven now has tater tots you can top just like nachos. I like my 7 Eleven tots with cheese, onion and two Taquitos smuggled underneath.
- Warren Kluck (@warrenkluck) March 14, 2018
"7-11 has introduced a tater tot bar" pic.twitter.com/ZHqo4Wkspc
- NEI 🍇 what the fuck is a carbonated grape (@tropeai) March 15, 2018
Macarons: Don't Confuse Them With Macaroons
It's high time we set the record straight: the word "macaron" is not an alternate spelling of macaroon. In fact, the two terms refer to distinctly different things. Both macarons and macaroons are confections, and both names are derived from ammaccare, which is Italian for "to crush" - but that's where the similarities end.
A macaron specifically refers to a meringue-based cookie made with almond flour, egg whites, and granulated and powdered sugar, then filled with buttercream, ganache or fruit curd. The delicate treat has a crunchy exterior and a weightless interior with a soft ending that's almost nougatlike in its chewiness. To add to the confusion, it's often called a French macaroon.
In contrast, the word macaroon is a generic phrase that is applied to a number of small, sweet confections. Mostly, the term is equated with the moist and dense coconut macaroon, which is composed of egg whites, sugar, and dried coconut, often piped with a star-shaped tip, and sometimes dipped in chocolate. The coconut macaroon, or congolais, as it's known in France, is frequently served during Passover because it contains no flour.
13 Inventions Women Created to Make Mom Life That Much Easier
They say necessity is the mother of invention, but motherhood may be the real inspiration behind many of the life-changing products we have in our parenting arsenals. It's not until you're truly in the trenches and up to your elbows in dirty diapers and unwashed dishes that you realize there has to be a better way, and you're determined to make it happen - now.
That's the motivation behind 13 products - including the disposable diaper, the Milk-Saver, those ubiquitous muslin baby blankets, and more - that moms have created over the years. Scroll through to see some of our favorite products that seriously make mom life that much easier.
11 Flattering One-Pieces You and Your Baby Bump Will Love
Finding the perfect swimsuit that fits just right is no easy feat, especially when you're shopping for two. Instead of squeezing into a bikini on your next weekend getaway or babymoon, opt for a comfortable one-piece instead. These versatile picks are not only flattering on every body type, but also look stylish. To make your life easier, we did the shopping for you. From fun floral prints to adorable striped choices, treat you and you growing belly to one (or two!) of these cute suits.
I Waited Until My 30s to Get Married, and I Wouldn't Have Had It Any Other Way
My marriage certificate might surprise some people. There's my age, loud and proud and written in indelible ink: 33. My husband was younger than me on our wedding day. OK, only just, but our great-grandkids will see him as a slip of a 32-year-old marrying an older woman. And I love it.
I'm glad we waited until our 30s to say "I do." True, we'd been a couple for seven years and living together for most of those when we walked down the aisle, but the big, big step of marriage was something that really didn't seem to even hit the to-do list until we were older. We had other stuff to get on with: homes to make, careers to build, places to see. Weddings could wait. Here's why I'm glad we held off until the time was right for us.
1. A Self-Sufficient Bride or Groom Is a Happy Bride or Groom
Getting married with a few more years under your belt is, I am sure, much easier than doing it young. For starters, we could pay for the whole carnival ourselves. That was really, really important to me. I know my wonderful parents would have made sure I had a day to remember if I'd asked them to foot the bill, but they'd already done so much for me. They'd given me a fabulous education, made sure I could stand on my own two feet, and expanded my horizons with amazing family holidays. One fancy dress and one big party I could pay for myself.
We were also far more financially stable than we were in our 20s, and that mattered. Weddings are great fun - they are memories made for a lifetime . . . but they are just one day. Knowing that we could cover all the costs without incurring huge debts was as important to me as the cake, the confetti, and the cars. However lovely the day was going to be, I didn't want to be paying for it for years to come or regretting it within months when our money was still being spent on it, leaving us to struggle over basics. And that financial wisdom came with age.
2. Your Big Day Belongs to You
I also think I went into the whole process of planning my wedding with a calmer attitude, which made the whole thing much more enjoyable. By the time you're in your 30s, you have more of a sense of perspective on what matters. I really think that if I'd been a bride in my early 20s, I would have been swept along by what other people thought I should have at my wedding. By the time I hit my 30s, I was more sure of what I wanted and much more confident that my dreams were just as valid as the opinions expressed by those around me.
Then there's your future spouse. In your 30s, you're much more likely to be relaxed enough about the whole marriage thing to give your partner the space they need to enjoy their big day. You're also more likely to be getting married after a longer-term relationship, meaning you know what makes them tick and how you can merge your interests to keep everyone happy.
3. Facing the Future Is More Fun
Then there's the happy ever after. Speaking for myself, the rush of romance and the excitement of a wedding might well have masked serious thoughts about the future when I was in my 20s. Admittedly, my husband and I kind of just clicked, and I always had the feeling he'd still be hanging around my house when we were collecting our pensions. But in my 30s, I'd learned the art of being a careful Cinderella, of realizing that my handsome prince would have flaws and that he would see failings in me too but that we'd love each other all the same. If you're going to stand up in public and promise to be with each other forever, seeing the potential bumps ahead is vital. If you still want to make that commitment with that knowledge in hand, then chances are you've found your forever.
Now I'm in my 40s, still married and still happy. And what I'd say to anyone a couple of decades younger, worrying that they're not yet wed, is wait and enjoy it. Getting married in your 30s or 40s isn't just the new normal; it's the way to go. You'll walk down the aisle with more confidence and savoring every moment because you know just how precious it all really is. And enjoy looking at that marriage certificate that tells the world you were an older bride - it really is the stuff that wedding dreams are made of.
6 Essential Tips For Making Food Ahead of Time
There are few things that save time and energy more than making your food ahead. But so often it can end up meaning bland dishes, overheated messes, and recipes that just didn't hold up well. In my new book Bring It!: Tried and True Recipes for Potlucks and Casual Entertaining, I had to make every recipe foolproof for making ahead and taking it on the go. Once you start making food ahead you can't go back - you'll be storing extra dinners and snacks for later every time you cook. So read ahead for the essentials I learned along the way to ensure you can get in the habit of saving time and making food ahead.
How Ignoring Advice Actually Strengthens My Relationship
I met my husband on the campus of the University of South Carolina my freshman year of college. It was annoyance at first sight. No pick-up lines but a series of questions to challenge how well I knew the city of Columbia. Boredom or the challenge of future pop quizzes led to a phone number exchange. 20 later, I know answering his questions was one of the smartest things I've ever done. The second smartest thing I've done is ignoring relationship advice from well-meaning family and friends.
Everything around us continues to evolve, yet many people still give and listen to outdated relationship advice. What is even more amazing to me is the number of people who will solicit advice without the context of your situation or who aren't even in relationships. I've successfully navigated my relationship by learning when to tune out outside chatter. Here's the advice that didn't work for me.
"Let the breadwinner take care of you."
I quit my job to move to Chicago with husband, who recently accepted a new job. I was told by many people to not rush into my job search and enjoy the perks of someone taking care of me. I listened as I scrolled through job listings on my computer. I knew opting for a simpler life would not work well for our relationship. On my career journey, he has coached me into roles I once thought unobtainable. If I chose not to work, I know I would have lived a life of regret and placed the blame on my partner instead of those who gave me the misguided advice.
"One happy spouse, one happy house."
There are studies that prove this thought process to be true, but read the fine print. Many of the couples surveyed are over the age of 50. Happiness in a modern-day relationship isn't one-sided. It is important to identify the things that bring your partner happiness. Once we had children, I can recount the eye rolls I gave my partner during discussions of upcoming work trips. I pictured my partner sleeping in lavish hotels and eating expensive dinners, while I stayed at home raising our children. One day, he admitted hating taking work trips because of my constant eye rolls. Pushing aside the advice I had been given by friends, I listened and made a point to eliminate my attitude on this topic, especially realizing work trips aren't vacations. I now receive calendar appointments weeks in advance, so I can plan for my mom to help with the children or I work to readjust my work schedule to ensure no one suffers when work trips arise. Two happy people equals a happier relationship.
They will cheat on you if . . .
Many fill in the blank with one or more of the following: you don't have enough sex, you don't do housework, you nag too much, or if you gain too much weight. Infidelity in my relationship is a topic that I refuse to invest time worrying about. How often you have sex, maintaining a clean home, being amicable, etc., depend on where you are in your life. The higher up the career ladder you climb, having or adopting children, the death of a family member, or even having a bad day can easily change how you rank your priorities and change the dynamic of your relationship. Realigning expectations and communicating them to your partner is key. If my partner decides to cheat on me, I believe infidelity is a choice, and not something I caused.
Relationships require work. I've gone to bed angry (gasp!) and I've brought up old fights during new arguments. I'm not proud of these things, but I'm honest with myself. Our relationship doesn't work because I strive for perfection, it works because I can be myself. I spend more time talking to my partner instead of asking the opinions of others. I don't compare our relationship to anyone else's because I don't know what goes on behind their closed doors. We have worked to build a true partnership, and we have the final say in what's best for us.
This Wine Bottle Pool Float From Amazon Was Made For Moms Who Love Their Cabernet
Gigantic unicorn pool floats are cool and all, but I just discovered a pool accessory that caters to my one true love in life - wine, duh. While aimlessly scrolling through Amazon and simultaneously daydreaming about Summer, as one does in the wretched throes of Winter, I stumbled upon the wine bottle-shaped pool float of my damn dreams, and now I'm sitting here wondering why time travel isn't a thing because I need it to be Summer ASAP.
This inflatable raft is 7.5 feet long and looks comfortable (and Instagrammable) as heck. I may live in a tiny NYC apartment with no pool access, but you can bet your a** my chardonnay-loving self would schlep my way to a public pool just so I could use this thing. Read on to snag your own wine bottle pool float before it sells out on Amazon, and then keep browsing to see a few of the other alcohol-related raft options the internet has to offer. Hurry up, Summer!
Preparing For Childbirth Is Proven to Make You a Better Mother
Before the birth of my first child, I didn't armor myself with knowledge like I should have. Instead of researching breathing techniques, pain relief options, and potential complications, I simply thought, "Yeah, it's going to hurt and there's nothing I can do about it." I didn't think about all the possible scenarios and how I could have given myself the ammo to deal with them. Instead, I gave that power to my obstetrician.
I should have done my homework.
I was bullied into a C-section after only 18 hours of labor. After the surgery, I was pumped with so many drugs that the fog made it difficult to even hold my firstborn. The nurse held my baby to my breast - only to begin the takedown of my nipples. This was not the romantic scene I had signed up for. And things only got worse from there. I felt anxious and depressed that I wasn't nursing successfully, and I had little confidence as a new mother. The C-section that I didn't ask for stripped the power from me completely, making me doubt my ability to mother my own child. I had never cried that much in my life.
When I became pregnant with my second, I was determined to do my research. And as it turns out, being prepared for childbirth has a direct effect on your abilities as a mother (or, more accurately, your thoughts on your ability as a mother). According to the Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, the satisfaction of a woman's childbirth experience has vital health implications for her and her family, and whether a mother is prepared for childbirth can help increase this satisfaction.
Katherine Hinic, PhD, conducted a 2017 study on 107 women in the first four days postpartum who gave birth to a healthy infant, carried to full-term, and planned to breastfeed. The new mothers were given a survey to evaluate their birth satisfaction, stress, and breastfeeding self-efficacy to see how these outcomes connected to their preparedness. Hinic wanted to study this because childbirth is the initial task of motherhood and can greatly impact early parenting. Essentially, a positive birth can be associated with an "increased maternal sense of competence, self-esteem, mastery, confidence, and decreased anxiety."
The study showed that when women were in control and prepared for their labor, they were confident in their ability to breastfeed well. Thus, their overall childbirth experience was favorable, too. The study also demonstrated that women who had longer labors were not as satisfied with their experience. This, I will say, was actually untrue for my second birth. Yes, I labored from start to finish for 50 hours, but I was able to have the vaginal birth I had wanted so badly with my first. Because I was in control, I became a much more confident mother the second time around. I didn't doubt myself, nor did I feel any anxiety.
One surprising thing the study also demonstrated was that receiving pain management had no bearing on childbirth satisfaction. What did matter was whether the mother had the power to choose her method of pain medication. If the mother was prepared, was knowledgeable, and had the autonomy of choosing, then she had a better birthing experience. Thus, her competence in her ability to mother increased as well. Before my second labor started, I wanted to have a natural childbirth, but after 35 hours, I asked, in horrific pain, for that heavenly epidural. I wasn't disappointed - I was pleased that I was the one who made that choice.
The childbirth experience is often the most memorable time in a woman's life. While it's easy to assume (like me) that giving birth is ultimately out of our control, you can (and should) take steps to make sure you're prepared for whatever may happen to your body and your baby. As women, we aren't always granted the opportunity to go through the birthing process many times (if at all), so it's wise to empower yourself with knowledge.
Teacher's Heartbreaking Tweets About an Active-Shooter Lockdown Prove Why Action Is So Necessary
In the wake of the deadly school shooting in Parkland, FL, the gun-control debate is more heated and relevant than ever, and one Colorado teacher just added her own heartbreaking point of view to the conversation. Denver resident, mother, and teacher Ali Kemp recently took to social media to recount what it was like to endure an active-shooter lockdown alongside her 10-year-old students.
Although the lockdown ended up being a false alarm and it was actually a lockout instead, her class endured a few gut-wrenching seconds of uncertainty during which they all feared the worst. In the moments following the lockout miscommunication, Ali's students seemed unconvinced by her claims that school is a "safe" place to be, which is possibly her most upsetting revelation.
Relive Ali's harrowing experience by reading through her tweets and some of the responses ahead. They're guaranteed to give you chills - and make you spring into action in favor of common-sense gun control.
What Mister Rogers Did For This Young Fan in a Coma Will Make You Ache That He's Not Here Anymore
The following story by Beth Usher was originally published on her Facebook page.
When I was five years old, I suffered up to one hundred seizures a day. During my seizures, I would often fall and bang my head on the floor or whatever hard object presented in my descent, and the only way for my mom to shower and dress for work without worrying was to prop me up with soft pillows and place me in front of the TV. One time she turned on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and I didn't have a single seizure for the entire duration of the show. Something in his voice calmed the electrical circuits in my injured brain and allowed my body to rest.
Mister Rogers, my friend, called to ask me about my brain surgery.
My mother and I performed this ritual every work day for two years with great success. I quickly began to consider Mister Rogers a real friend, and would talk back to the TV screen, saying things like, "Yes, I will be your good neighbor!" So it came as no surprise that my sweet mother called Mister Rogers' TV studio in Pittsburgh in preparation for my upcoming brain surgery. My neurologists had determined that I had somehow contracted a very rare brain disease called Rasmussen's Encephalitis. They theorized that a slow growing virus was killing brain cells in the left side of my brain, causing life-altering epileptic seizures. The only cure was an operation called a hemispherectomy, or the removal of one half of my brain. My mother told Mister Rogers' assistant that the show was a sanctuary for me and that I believed Mister Rogers was speaking directly to me when he sang his song, "Won't You Be My Neighbor." She explained about my seizures and upcoming surgery and the fact that that the seizures would subside during his entire show. My mother hoped that Mister Rogers' assistant would send an autographed photo of my TV friend, or even a note from him assuring me that I was going to be OK.
One week before my surgery, the telephone rang. My mother spoke for a few minutes and told me that a friend wanted to talk to me. I remember feeling excited that someone calling themselves a friend was calling me (friendships were difficult for me at the time). I said hello, heard a familiar voice, and immediately felt at ease. Mister Rogers, my friend, asked me about my brain surgery. I told him that I was scared but wanted the seizures to go away; I told him that I wanted the kids in my class to like me and play with me; I asked him about the members of his neighborhood who I had come to love - King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and Daniel Striped Tiger. We talked for nearly an hour. Before I hung up the phone, I said, "I love you, Mister Rogers."
During our seven-hour drive to Johns Hopkins Childrens' Hospital in Baltimore, my mom and I listened to the many cassette audio tapes sent to me by Mister Rogers a few days after his call. His soft voice discussed so many topics that concerned young children. My favorite cassette was the one where he sang, "I like you just the way you are." While in the hospital, I endured back-to-back medical tests to determine if my body could survive the 12-hour surgery to remove my entire left hemisphere. I was confused and scared, but believed my doctors and parents wouldn't do anything to hurt me. In between the tests, I was able to spend time with my beloved brother. We played games and watched movies. I didn't realize it at the time, but my older brother was worried he might never see me again. He was only ten years old.
The very last thing I said to my parents as I was wheeled into the operating room was, "No more seizures."
My surgery went well, and my doctor told my parents they could see me in the recovery room. I lay swollen with tubes and wires in and all around my head and body. My parents had faith in my surgeon and neurologist, but later that night, for reasons that have never been explained, I fell into a deep coma.
Mister Rogers gently placed his clarinet case on my bed, opened it, and took out King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and Daniel Striped Tiger. For the following hour, I was the star in his neighborhood.
With the sounds of life-support machines beeping, IV fluids being pumped into my body, nurses and doctors running in and out of my room, and my parents softly sobbing, you could hear Mister Rogers singing "I like you just the way you are" from a cassette player in my ICU room. My mother was called from the room to the nurse's station where she was handed the phone. It was the Mister Rogers, and he wanted to know how I was doing. My mom gave him the bleak news that although the surgery went well, I suffered severe brain stem swelling and was in a coma. They talked a little more and he told her that he would pray for me. What we didn't know was that Mister Rogers was an ordained Presbyterian Minister.
For the following two weeks, Mister Rogers called every day to ask about my status and to pray with my mother. One morning he called and asked her if it would be OK if he visited me the next afternoon. My mother told him that sadly I was still in a coma and wouldn't know he was there. He said he would come anyway. He asked that she not tell anyone he was coming because he wanted it to be a private visit and didn't want the press to be there.
The next afternoon, Mister Rogers flew from Pittsburgh to Baltimore with only a clarinet case in tow. A minister friend from Baltimore picked him up from the airport and drove him directly to the hospital. My parents, brother, grandparents, and many other family members took turns keeping vigil by my bedside, each trying in their own way to wake me from my coma. They immediately recognized the tall man with the kind face as he stepped inside my room. Mister Rogers gently placed his clarinet case on my bed, opened it, and took out King Friday, Lady Elaine Fairchild, and my favorite, Daniel Striped Tiger. For the following hour, I was the star in his neighborhood.
I'd love to end this story by telling you it was in that moment that I emerged from my coma, but that wasn't the case. After his visit with me and several more minutes with my family, Mister Rogers' minister friend drove him back to the airport and he flew back to his hometown in Pennsylvania, taking along an empty clarinet case. What I can tell you, though, is that when I did wake up, Mister Rogers became my real friend and not just a TV friend. We remained close and shared many conversations, birthday wishes, and milestones for the following twenty years until his death on February 27, 2003.
Sorry, but I Refuse to Buy My Kids Easter Baskets
I've always loved any and all holidays (even more since I became a mom, even though they're now 10 times the work), but Easter has never been at the top of my list. It's probably because my family's not that religious and I never bothered teaching my kids that the Easter Bunny was a real thing. The extent of our family's celebration typically involves an egg hunt at a local farm followed by a brunch with the grandparents, who always present my kids with more bunny- and egg-shaped candy than any 4- or 6-year-old should consume in a year.
I'll admit to getting annoyed by the grandparent Easter excess - I mean, how many pairs of plush bunny ears does a kid really need?! But it does make me feel less guilty about the fact that the only baskets I give my kids on Easter are the empty ones I saved from last year, which they load up with that farm's plastic eggs.
My aversion to passing out Easter gifts is only partly because of my apathy about the holiday in general. It's also largely due to the fact that, by the time Easter rolls around, I feel like my kids have been swimming in a pool of presents for the previous three months.
Don't call my empty Easter baskets lazy or sad or mean. Call them a rebellion. A mom can only give so much.
First, there's Christmas, which, despite my efforts to limit, always seems out of control. Then, less than a month later, we celebrate my son's birthday, which somehow always seems to include gifts for my daughter, too, not to mention a plethora of gift-bag junk that I'll continue to find in my house for months. A few weeks later, Valentine's Day rolls around, and guess what? My kids get gifts from both sets of grandparents along with bags of candy and tiny toys from their classmates, yet they still expect me to cough up some sweet goods to celebrate my love for them. Of course, I oblige.
Less than six weeks after that, usually well before Easter, is my daughter's birthday, and that lady doesn't play around, starting her extensive wish list and elaborate party plans months in advance. By the time Easter does roll around, the thought of buying my kids more gifts to fill an Easter basket doesn't just feel exhausting; it feels downright gross. (Also gross: the number of Cadbury Mini Eggs I will consume if they're present in my house.)
At what point did we all decide that every holiday needed to be celebrated by presenting our children with not just a single gift, but a basket of them? I get that grandparents can't help themselves, but really, should I feel pressure to follow suit, making sure I have something for them to unwrap at Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valentine's Day, and Easter?! Isn't it enough to just be together as family, or tell them how much I love them, or, I don't know, buy them cool costumes and take them door to door to collect free candy?
I might not be able to radically change the gift-giving culture that seems so pervasive in our world and so expected by my children and pretty much every other child I know, but I'm also not going to totally buy into it. So don't call my empty Easter baskets lazy or sad or mean. Call them a rebellion. A mom can only give so much.
Twice in 1 Season? Why the Flu Might Strike Again, Even If Your Kid Already Had It
It's no secret that the flu has been particularly awful this year. Children are especially vulnerable to getting sick (schools are actually shutting down to try to combat the outbreak), and when they do come down with something awful, it's heartbreaking as a parent to watch them suffer. If your child does get sick, you might feel relieved to think they could soon be out of the woods, but unfortunately, the flu can strike more than once in the same season, warned Dr. Ian Tong, chief medical officer at Doctor on Demand. "A child could be infected by both influenza A and influenza B in the same year."
So what can you do to try to navigate around this? Once your child's doctor confirms the flu, take note of which type they have. "Influenza A subtype, or influenza A, is the more dangerous subtype of the flu," Dr. Tong said. "This year it is the severity of the H3N2 strain of the influenza A subtype that is requiring so many people to be hospitalized. Ironically, patients infected with influenza B may experience a longer duration of symptoms than those infected with influenza A, but those with influenza A are likely to see more severe symptoms, but of shorter duration."
Dealing with the flu for a second time is no different, or more dangerous, than the first. Washing your hands frequently, getting plenty of rest, and drinking liquids are all ways to combat the flu. Dr. Tong urges patients to also take preventative measures to ensure that others don't get sick. "Wash your hands, cover your mouth or your child's mouth when he or she coughs, and isolate that person from other family members if possible, especially those who have weaker immune systems," he advised.
Additionally, Dr. Tong urged people to speak to a doctor as soon as symptoms arise, saying, "The treatment window for the flu is usually within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, and the only proven treatment that helps requires a doctor's prescription - so it's important to act fast."
Kick Carbs to the Curb With These Snacks
Going low carb can help many people shed a few pounds if done right. Try it yourself with these low-carb snacks; easy to make, many of these are also high in good-for-you nutrients like antioxidants, protein, and fiber.
No Wonder Michael B. Jordan Is So Hot in the Black Panther Trailer - These Are His Workouts
It may not sound like it's that far away, but having to wait until Feb. 16 to see Black Panther in theaters feels like an eternity. With such a stellar cast - Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong'o, Angela Bassett, and Forest Whitaker, just to name-drop a few - and a compelling plot, it's safe to say that this just might be the movie of the year.
But there's one cast member of Black Panther in particular who is known to make us weak at the knees, and seeing him in the final trailer reminded us just how drool-worthy he really is. We're talking about Michael B. Jordan, who plays the antagonist in the film, Erik Killmonger, and you may recognize him (and his abs) from the 2015 Rocky installment Creed, in which he played the lead role.
If you've never laid eyes on Michael, we're about to rock your world. He's one of the fittest dudes out there, and he's so dedicated to his fitness routine that the Nike Training Club app has three different workouts that were inspired by Michael. There's Quick Quarter, a 15-minute bodyweight workout that features challenging plyometric exercises to burn major calories. You can also try Slim Chance 2.0, which mimics the typical workout of a boxer. You'll go through a lot of quick feet drills and rotational core work. Finally, there's The Big 4, a workout designed for a villain - we're talking barbell work, like squatting, pushing, and pulling.
It's no wonder Michael is looking so perfect so fit these days. He's training like a professional athlete! Here are some intimate shots of him doing what he does best - sweating, working out, and stealing our hearts all at once. You might want to sit down for this.
11 Netflix Documentaries That Will Make You Want to Be Healthy
After an indulgent period, I need a little bit of a healthy reboot. Streaming an awesome documentary on Netflix always inspires me to get my head back in the game and get serious about my health. If you're in need of a healthy reset, turn on one of these flicks tonight. You might just be inspired to clean up your diet, get back to yoga, or even sign up for a crazy-challenging race.
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