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
Why You Should Never, Ever Check Your Luggage on a Plane
If you check luggage on your flight, you're inviting disaster along for your trip. It's not always that dramatic - sometimes it's just a mere inconvenience - but other times you're asking for more trouble than those extra pairs of shoes that made you upgrade to a larger bag are worth. As a frequent traveler, I avoid checking luggage at all costs - because I've learned the hard way. Unless I'm going on a trip spanning several weeks in the dead of Winter and need bulky sweaters and jackets to stay warm, I'm flying stress-free with just my trusted carry-on. I've had my luggage damaged. I've had my luggage lost and received it days later. I've had to switch flights/airlines last minute in order to make a connection at my next destination city and would not have been able to do so if my luggage was already on its way to be loaded onto my original plane. I've experienced the Hunger Games-like rush to grab my bag off the belt in order to make it through customs at an international airport so that I could catch the next leg of my flight. I've dealt with it all, and you probably will too if you check your bags frequently.
I know, there are exceptions to my "no checked bag" rule - if you're traveling with young children who can't lug their own bags (start them young, I say!), then you may not be able to avoid checking. Strollers, car seats - I get it. There are understandably circumstances when it can't be avoided, but if you can avoid checking, don't hesitate to. It's possible, I promise. Here's why you should keep your luggage with you on your next flight.
1. You save money.
This is a pretty significant reason to skip checking a bag, especially depending on what airline you're flying. While some airlines (looking at you, JetBlue and Virgin!) let you have your first bag (as long as it's not oversize) for free, many costs range from $25-$50 per bag for checking. Paying for a bag you have to wait in a long line to check (and one that may get lost or damaged) really feels like adding insult to injury.
2. You'll get through the airport faster.
Carrying on your luggage means avoiding the lines for checking your bags before you go through security. Many airlines allow you to check in to your flight 24 hours ahead of time (international flights can have different policies since passports are involved). You can get your mobile boarding pass and skip the wait to drop your bags by breezing past the kiosks and heading straight for security. Getting through the airport will be much less painful.
3. Your belongings are in safe hands.
You can rest assured that your valuables are in safe hands, because they are in your hands. When you need to bring items on your travels that have great worth to you, you'll have peace of mind knowing where they are at all times because you'll have control over how they are stored and transported.
4. Your luggage itself will be more protected.
It's no secret that your luggage isn't necessarily being handled with care. It's tossed on a conveyor belt and haphazardly transferred (after a roller-coaster ride) to the underbelly of your plane, where it will be crammed among countless other bags. While it's normal for luggage to go through some wear and tear on your travels, carrying it on means keeping it in better condition for longer.
5. It's easier to travel with less-bulky items.
If you plan on traveling from destination to destination instead of staying in one place, having a small carry-on bag is much more manageable than toting around a 50-pound bag full of things you probably don't even need.
6. You are forced to bring only what you need.
Not checking your bags means becoming a smarter packer. Because you have to optimize your bag space, you'll be more inclined to pack just the basics. You can avoid bringing along things you will inevitably realize in hindsight were unnecessary, and soon packing will be like an art form to you. Having an efficient packing system can make air travel so much less stressful.
7. You have everything you need for delays and long layovers.
If you have to camp out in the airport due to unforeseen delays, flight cancellations, or long layovers, having a carry-on with all of your belongings means having access to everything you could need during that time.
8. You don't have to wait for your bag once you deplane.
After hours of a long flight, the last thing anyone feels like doing is waiting around for that beautiful (or shrill, depending on how you look at it) beeping noise that indicates your bags are on their way down the belt. It seems like no matter how early or late you arrive to check in luggage, your bag is always the very last to come trundling down the slide. If it comes at all. Skip this process altogether and head straight out of the airport with your carry-on.
Plane Tickets to Europe Start at $89 With Norwegian Air's Awesome St. Patrick's Day Sale
There's no better way to celebrate a special occasion than with a major sale, and budget airline Norwegian Air is happy to oblige us. Norwegian is offering tickets from the US to the UK and Ireland for as low as $89 (one-way) as part of a St. Patrick's Day promotion. Yes, you read correctly: you can fulfill your European travel dreams without dipping too deeply into your savings.
The sale began at midnight on March 16 and ends March 19 at 23:59 ET/PT. The main catch is that the deal only applies to flights departing from Boston and New York, but with the money you'll save on the round trip to Europe, you could find a cheap flight to the airports included in the sale and still save a ton of cash. Keep in mind as you plan that the airports - Providence/Boston-TF Green and New York Stewart International - are trickier to get to than larger ones like JFK, La Guardia, and Boston Logan.
Travel months included are April-June and August-September 2018. Prices and travel periods offered depend on the routes you choose, so start searching for your ideal itinerary and get ready to score a deal!
Just Breathe: 10 Amazing Yoga Retreats From Around the World
There are times when life hurts . . . a lot. There are times when things get out of hand. There are times when you feel like you're spinning out of control and need to realign your center. That's when a yoga retreat can come in handy.
Whether you do yoga on a regular basis or not, the practice can help detox, debloat, and ease tension in certain parts of the body. It can also help build core strength, de-stress the mind, and relieve the effects of those stresses in the body.
Keep in mind that yoga retreats are usually set in stunning settings - from tropical rainforests to sandy beaches with inviting sunsets - that can put your mind, body, and soul at ease. Here are 10 yoga retreats from around the world to visit when it's time for a break.
36 Disney World Hacks That Will Make Your Trip Even More Magical
Want to avoid the long Walt Disney World lines in the sweltering heat of a Florida Summer? We can help with that. Some of the park's biggest fans came together on two Quora threads to offer tips and tricks for making your trip to Disney World even more magical - and more economical, too. These hacks will help you navigate the parks, find the best deals, and make the most of the happiest place on the planet.
19 Uber and Lyft Secrets, Straight From an Anonymous Driver
I spoke to an anonymous man who started driving for a living in 2014 and works for both Uber and Lyft. He has experience driving passengers throughout New Jersey and shared all of the insider secrets he's learned - but most passengers don't realize. Here are his tell-all details about Uber and Lyft and what you need to know before requesting your next ride.
1. The ratings you give seriously matter to drivers.
"If you rate us less than five stars, it's as if you're asking the company to fire us slowly. Drivers are deactivated if their rating falls below 4.5 or 4.6."
2. No matter what, you will get rated and what drivers say about you is important too.
Drivers have to rate you before they can pick up the next ride, and the driver will definitely deduct stars if you make them wait or are unpleasant. "If a passenger rating falls below 4.5, many drivers will be hesitant to pick them up. If your rating is below 4.0, it will become more difficult to get a ride at busy times. New drivers don't pay attention to ratings, but give them a couple of months of bad passengers and they all start paying attention."
3. There's a guaranteed way to get rated five stars.
Although this isn't an official company policy, if you tip in cash instead of through the app, your driver will always give you five stars.
4. Tips especially matter when you ride-share.
Tips are even more important when you pool or ride-share because drivers don't get compensated for the additional stops while the companies profit from them. "Most drivers hate Uber Pool and Lyft Line. The driver is paid as if he only took one ride although it's actually a longer ride because you're picking up and dropping off passengers as if you're a bus. For example: a driver picks up a passenger on Uber Pool and that passenger is charged $12. The driver then gets another request to pick up someone else and their ride is also $12. The driver only earns for their time in miles, so he or she could only make $5 (if nobody tips) on the ride while Uber got $24."
5. Despite what people think, drivers have to follow the same laws - and won't get in trouble for you.
Some drivers have dash cameras in their car recording the rides, so if you refuse to put on your seat belt in the back, break open-container laws, or try to get away with not having a car seat and their car gets pulled over, they can show the cops and you'll be the one to get a ticket instead of the driver.
6. Your driver talks about you.
There are a variety of closed Facebook groups for Uber and Lyft drivers from different communities. Although this can be a great resource for advice and connections, it's also a platform for drivers to vent about their awful customers and post pictures from cringe-worthy experiences.
7. Some drivers actually like it when you cancel.
After you've requested a ride and your driver is en route, you'll typically be charged a $5 cancellation fee. Although Uber keeps a percentage of it, Lyft gives it all to the drivers. "Some drivers prefer the cancellation fee to a local ride because at the current rates you make the same money for not driving the passenger as you do for driving the passenger."
8. If you leave something, you might not get it back - but not because it was "stolen."
If someone leaves something in the car, it's usually "a big pain in the butt" for the driver because they often go out of their way to return something without the person tipping or even saying thank you. "Many drivers will simply dispose of whatever a passenger leaves in the car including cell phones, keys, and wallet. This is because they're tired of going out of their way and losing money to return an item to someone who will not compensate them for their time and effort. A driver can't get into trouble if they 'can't' locate something that you lost, but new drivers will usually go out of their way to return lost items - but after they're burned several times, they no longer do it."
9. However, there's a way to pretty much guarantee that your stuff will be returned if you forgot it.
It all comes down to that cash tip again. "Drivers do remember the passengers who tip in cash because they are few and far between. Those people are far more likely to have their items returned, but if a passenger is rude or disrespectful, they will certainly never see their item again."
10. You're most likely driving with a new employee.
What they call the "churn rate" or turnover is very high among drivers. The majority of drivers on the road are doing this job less than six months and will most likely quit before the end of the year because they are operating at a loss.
11. You're doing more than just wasting their time when you make them wait.
Drivers pretty much don't get paid when you make them wait, only $0.10 a minute in most markets, so you really are impacting their bottom line.
12. Drivers aren't making as much as you think.
"Both Uber and Lyft give upfront prices to passengers that can be as much as 60 percent higher than the amount your driver receives. The payout per mile in New Jersey is approximately $0.65 to the driver."
13. Drivers hate traffic just as much as you do.
When you're stuck in traffic, drivers only get $0.10 a minute (and in some markets less) for the additional wait time, so don't think they are secretly trying to hit traffic or aren't just as annoyed because they're getting something out of it.
14. Drivers "salivate" for surge and primetime rides.
When Uber and Lyft charge riders more because of higher demands is when drivers have a chance to make considerably more money. The app will show drivers where surge zones are on the map, and if the surge is two times the price, that's how much more the driver will earn. "Many experienced drivers will only work the surge and won't take anything at the regular rates because they are too low to actually make money. These drivers learn their market and know when it's likely to surge. These experienced drivers study this to get an idea of when it's likely to surge."
15. When you try to scam the company, you're really just scamming the driver.
"Passengers have figured out that if they rate the driver poorly and complain about the ride to Uber or Lyft, they will get credit for a free ride. Many drivers have fallen victim to passengers who are scamming for a free ride and not only does it affect the driver's star rating, but sometimes Uber will take the money back and a driver will have to argue to get paid."
16. The company plays dirty.
"I started with Lyft in April 2014 and then I was 'sloged' by Uber a week later. 'Operation slog' was what Uber called their program to recruit Lyft drivers and generally harass Lyft by requesting rides and then canceling them. An Uber corporate representative requested a ride on Lyft when Lyft was giving out free rides during their lunch. This representative got in my car and offered me $1,000 to do one ride on the Uber platform and then guaranteed me $40 per hour for the next two months. He said that he didn't want me to stop driving for Lyft but every time I turned off Uber to take a Lyft ride I would be losing money."
17. Having both apps can save you money.
"Passengers should have both apps because Uber surges more often than Lyft so during times of surge, they can check each app to see which one has a better price. Uber surges more often than Lyft, so at those times it would behoove the rider to choose Lyft."
18. One company is definitely better than the other - at least to this driver.
"Lyft is also a socially conscious company that donated free rides to breast cancer patients to go for their chemo, donated free rides through Dress for Success to help women in need get to job interviews, and has a program where for every dollar a passenger tipped in the app, they donated $1 to Meals on Wheels. That's just a small example of the type of socially responsible things that Lyft has done compared to the ethically questionable things that Uber has done over the years."
19. You're getting a good deal, so there's no need to complain about it and ruin a driver's day.
"Uber rates in most markets are about what it cost in 1974 to take a taxi in New York City. I think that's pretty damn cheap, and it doesn't get much cheaper than that to have someone pick you up in a clean car. We have a lot of passengers behaving badly or treating us poorly and it's become a major problem."
This Tearful Maui Proposal Was a Complete Surprise - Even to the Photographer!
While in Hawaii for a friend's wedding, Mike and Lara wanted to take advantage of the stunning scenery and book their own couple's session. As far as their photographer knew, the two would just be taking photos together for fun. But about five minutes into the photo shoot, Mike asked if he could do something before taking anymore pictures. He surprised both Lara and their photographer with a heartfelt proposal right on the beach! Lara immediately teared up as he got down on one knee. Every moment was captured, and they continued on with the rest of their session as a newly engaged couple.
See the sweet photos ahead!
You Won't Believe What Disneyland Is Planning to Do With Churros
Some Disneyland fans are Mickey Bar obsessives, others are cake pop people - and then, well, there are the rest of us. Churros are easily the best handheld snack at the happiest place on earth, and the three new versions arriving to Disneyland Resort on April 13 for Pixar Fest are shaping up to be some of the greatest.
A multicolored fruity churro with lemon sugar - nicknamed The Snipe, of course - will honor Up's bold bird Kevin, and a Lots-o' Straw-"Bear"-y Churro, sold in Tomorrowland, will feature bright pink sugar and that trademark strawberry scent of the Toy Story 3 character. The most exciting of the three, though, is Frontierland's Coco churro, which comes topped with chocolate powder, vanilla bean, and salted cinnamon sugar, served with a Mexican chocolate dipping sauce that's got a smoky chipotle kick.
While a trio of new takes on the theme park favorite seems like a big step, the funky churro phenomenon has only just begun. As it turns out, there may be even more flavors on the way, both throughout Pixar Fest (which runs at both parks until Sept. 3) and at a permanent Toy Story-themed churro stand debuting within Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure on June 23. In talking to Disney's culinary team, we learned that there's going to be an "explosion" of ever-changing churros going forward, meaning that fun new flavors are no longer a seasonal thing - it's the future.
The cinnamon-sugar treat has been likened to a kind of canvas for ongoing interpretation, and we have a strong sense that a variety of different churros always for sale across Disney's two California parks - possibly even one for each land - seems to be on the horizon. We even heard rumblings from the culinary staff of possible "hidden churros" and even a "churro challenge" - seriously! - which sounds like our kind of sporting event.
It's hard not to see a parallel between these and Disneyland's overseas counterpart, Tokyo Disneyland. The beloved Japanese resort is known for selling wild and often wacky flavors of popcorn at stands across its two theme parks that change throughout the seasons. With a rotating selection of flavors like curry, soy sauce and butter, white chocolate, black pepper, and herb and tomato, park-goers are known to try them out regularly in a way that is eerily similar to our endless churro obsession.
Despite seasonal iterations of the beloved park snack being relatively new, they've exploded in popularity, with churros flavored like peppermint, pumpkin spice, and s'mores, covered in rose gold glitter or available in Cars racing colors, proving successful in the past few months alone. (It's worth noting, too, that seasonal Mickey-shaped beignets have also become crazy-popular.)
We're not entirely sure if the Anaheim park's intention is truly to offer a constant rotation of delightful flavors or if they'll just be rolled out more often, but if it happens, we are here for it. Having new iterations of churros for sale makes grabbing an old favorite that much more exciting every time we visit Disneyland, and tasty takes on our favorite Disney movies and Pixar films are always a good excuse for an anytime indulgence. Read on to see photos of the new snacks!
5 Nonnegotiable Rules For Hand-Me-Downs
One of the great things about having friends, family, or neighbors with children is the almost endless possibilities for hand-me-downs. Kids grow so quickly in the first few years of their lives; one moment they fit perfectly into that Winter coat, and the next it's like a tube top. But because they grow so quickly and their clothes and toys are usually only slightly worn, it seems unreasonable to just get rid of them or to keep buying them brand new items every few months. While hand-me-downs are a great way to save money and to make use out of things that still have a lot of potential, there are some steadfast rules you should always follow, whether you're the giver or the receiver.
- Check Product Recalls. The last thing you want to do is give away or receive a product that's been recalled by the manufacturer. Whether it's clothing, furniture, toys, or other items, always be sure to check that the specific product you're giving or receiving is still safe to use. This is especially important for items like furniture, car seats, and other pieces that could put your child or someone else's child in danger if they're defective.
- Make Sure They're Extremely Clean. Whether or not you realize it, giving away your child's worn clothes or used toys without washing them could spread dangerous germs, allergens, and more. And if you're the one on the receiving end of the used items, make sure you wash them, launder them, and give them a good once-over to make sure they're really clean. It's not just a matter of sanitation, either - these kinds of items could even spread pests like bedbugs, which no one wants.
- Make Sure They're in Good Condition. A beloved toy or a well-worn item of clothing may have brought you and your child lots of joy, but consider whether the item has come to the end of its life and should be discarded of in a different way. Check toys to make sure they're not broken, and make sure clothing and shoes are only lightly worn. Items with holes in them or that are missing essential pieces are not necessarily going to be useful for another child.
- Don't Give Away Your Trash. Has your child stopped using a toy because it's missing pieces or because something is broken, causing it not to work anymore? Items like this belong in the trash and shouldn't be given away to unsuspecting friends, neighbors, or family members. Also a big no-no? Don't try to hide things you're too busy to throw away in a box of otherwise good items. No one wants to be disappointed to find out that half of the things you've given them are just junk.
- Be Clear About Sizing. Always be clear about sizing with the person you're handing off your worn items to. If you tell them that you have a collection of pieces in a certain size, don't throw in a bunch of other clothing in different sizes with it. Be respectful that the person receiving the hand-me-downs still has specific needs for their children and might not want every single piece of clothing you want to get rid of.
12 Green Vegetable Recipes Your Kids Will Actually Want to Eat
As a mom of one amazing eater (my daughter recently ordered salmon and steamed broccoli at a friend's birthday dinner, providing me with one of my proudest parenting moments) and one decidedly awful one, I'm always trying to find dishes that will appeal to them both. Seriously, she loves broccoli and peas, and it's a freaking miracle if he eats even one. So if you also have a child who's wary of vegetables, especially those that are the scariest shade of green, the following 12 kid-friendly recipes are here to help. From entrée dishes that sneak in a veggie to fun green drinks, these dishes prove that while it may not be easy being green, it can be more fun to eat that way.
15 Foods Experts Say You Don't Have to Buy Organic If You're on a Tight Budget
With widespread knowledge about the benefits of shopping organic as well as the dangers of pesticides, it's hard not to feel guilty when reaching for nonorganic groceries to save money. Luckily, the following produce items - deemed the Clean 15 by the Environmental Working Group - are perfectly safe and healthy to eat when grown nonorganically.
Elizabeth Caton, brand and nutrition manager at Guiding Stars, points out that while the following foods have very little pesticide residue in their edible portions, they're still grown with pesticides. If you prefer to remain conscious of pesticide use in general, she suggests buying organic foods "to protect yourself, farmers/growers, the environment, or a combination of these." But if you're on a tight budget, these foods make it possible to eat well and save a few dollars.
15 Times Princess Diana Was Just a Regular Mom
Princess Diana has been deeply loved and idolized by people all over the world for decades, both when she was alive and in the years after her death. What's hard to remember, however - amid the glamorous balls, family scandals, and sparkly tiaras - is that, more than anything else, Diana was just a regular mom. It's obvious from her rare interviews and frequent public outings that she adored sons Prince Harry and Prince William and loved doing simple, run-of-the-mill things with them. She was also fiercely protective of their privacy. Diana's daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, has now followed her example with Prince George and Princess Charlotte. To prove the iconic royal was just like you when it came to her kiddos, keep reading for 15 moments she was a relatable mom . . . you know, minus the literal crown.
Alexa Chung x Superga's Collection Just Convinced Us We Need a New Pair of Sneakers
Alexa Chung wants you to get off on the right foot, in the most wearable of styles. The writer, model, host, designer, and all-round snappy dresser, who once played ambassador for Superga in 2011, just dropped a collection with the Italian shoe brand - and they're as practical as they are chic. Alexa showcased an expert use of puns for her tennis shoe collection, breaking the styles into subgroups. "Plain Jane" represents simple classics, while "Patent Is a Virtue" gives them a new flavor with patent, "Terry" is a slip-on mule featuring a terry towel texture, and "Smooth Operator" means silky, sexy satin.
Prices range from $79 for the classic tennis shoe to $89 for a satin Smooth Operator high-top style. (Dear credit card bills, we're sorry for all the future charges.) Read on for the full campaign, then shop the collection.
10 Stylish Handbags You Need to Own This Spring - All From H&M and Under $50
If you're obsessed with shopping H&M's affordable basics and cool seasonal clothing, you're not alone. Every time we look at the retailer, it's hard not to want it all. Now you can get even more excited because the popular store just released a new line of handbags that are perfect for Spring. Luckily, all our favorites are under $50 . . . so maybe you can treat yourself to more than one. From pastel shades to floral details and woven textures, take a look at our top picks.
Lupita Nyong'o's Red Carpet Style Proves 1 Thing: She's the Queen of Color!
If there's a star who is unafraid of color, prints, or nontraditional silhouettes, it's Lupita Nyong'o. The gorgeous and talented Mexican-Kenyan actress has worn some of the most interesting and beautiful gowns of recent years on the red carpets for award shows like the Oscars and Golden Globes and festivals like Cannes.
We've seen her in fringe, strategically placed cutouts, plunging and high necklines, backless numbers, and even a dress that lights up! In honor of Lupita's risk-taking fashion choices, we've compiled photos of her most stunning looks through the years. Read on and prepare to be enamored by bright colors and unique dresses.
- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez
Obsessed With Fashion Week Street Style? These Are the 50 Looks Worth Re-Creating
Just like that, another Fashion Month has come and gone. While we are still in awe of the dazzling designs that walked the runways in New York, London, Milan, and Paris, we were equally inspired by the looks seen outside the shows. Members of the fashion pack seem to always come up with creative and inspiring ensembles, but this season's street style stars seriously upped their game.
With each stop on the month-long marathon, they showed us styling hacks that revolve around the season's biggest and best trends and supplied us with an endless amount of new outfit ideas that we can't wait to re-create. From statement outerwear to innovative layering tricks and everything in between, read through to see the most memorable street style moments from Fashion Month.
Padma Lakshmi's Sexy Red Bikini Throwback Will Make You Crave Sunny Weather
It seems like everyone is craving a generous dose of sunshine and hot weather, and Padma Lakshmi is no exception at the moment. The Top Chef host and author shared a throwback snap of herself wearing a red bikini and sunglasses with the caption, "Missing Summer," and it's officially sending us into swimwear-shopping overdrive. The always-stunning Padma looked totally relaxed in her bright red bottoms and sexy wrap top, and now we're on the hunt for a similar look! Get the details on Padma's new makeup collaboration with MAC, and then shop a few similar swimsuit options ahead. Not included: Padma's gorgeous glow.
Luxury Brands Are Slowly Turning Against Fur - and Versace Is the Latest
Versace is the latest brand to take a defiant stance against fur. After decades of using fur in the brand's over-the-top designs - and receiving criticism for doing so - Donatella Versace just recently revealed that will no longer be the case. "Fur? I am out of that," the designer told The Economist. "I don't want to kill animals to make fashion. It doesn't feel right."
The decision means Versace will join several other luxury brands that have enacted fur-free policies, including Gucci, Tom Ford, Stella McCartney, and more. Apart from the obvious moral dilemma at play, the choice also seems to be a wise one for publicity. During the most recent Men's Fashion Week in Milan, Dsquared2 was the target of some backlash after debuting a new fur coat on the runway, modeled by Kendall Jenner.
In an emailed press statement that followed Donatella's interview, the brand said the decision is "part of a broader plan that centers on Versace's sustainable initiatives to embrace a more conscious and environment-savvy approach." Adding, "Versace is proud to take this ethical step and hopes it will be inspire innovation and raise awareness." By 2019, fur products will be completely phased out in stores and online.
While the Versace news is surprising given the brand's use of fur throughout history - demonstrated by the runway looks ahead - it makes sense in that it's part of a larger and long-overdue shift in the industry.
I Have Been Buying These $15 Black Pants For Years - They're So Flattering and Comfy
I looked for a simple pair of black pants that could be dressed up or down for ages. When I came across these H&M Slim-Fit Treggings ($15) a few years ago, I finally hit the jackpot. These stretchy, comfortable pants include an elasticized waistband for a perfect fit. There's a mock front so you never have to worry about your fly being down.
Because these pants are so affordable, I buy a few pairs every year. They look great with blouses and heels, but equally as stylish with a t-shirt and sneakers. I love that they feel like leggings, so I can easily wear them all day long. The fabric is also a great quality that makes this design look high quality.
If you're in the market for a new pair of pants, give this option a try. Trust me, it's a purchase you can feel good about.
Your Dream Best Friend Stephanie Shepherd Just Created the Chicest Jewelry Line
Stephanie Shepherd is stepping into the spotlight all on her own. Since leaving her demanding role as Kim Kardashian's executive assistant late last year, Stephanie has been forging her own path with new collaborations and projects. (We'd also like to think she's catching up on some much-needed sleep, too.) She's now translated her killer style into a chic jewelry collection with 8 Other Reasons.
The newly released Woman collection features nearly 50 different designs with an emphasis on eye-catching statement earrings, although the collection also offers rings and a necklace. The best part? Nothing exceeds $100, with prices ranging from $24 to $72. Items are selling out pretty quickly, so make sure to scope out your favorite pieces and add to cart! Shop our favorite items from the collection ahead.
Who Pays For Meghan Markle's Wardrobe? The Question We've All Been Wondering . . .
First came the sheer, embroidered, $78,000 Ralph & Russo gown Meghan Markle wore for her engagement photos, then her ever-impressive coat collection, and who could forget her iconic Philip Treacy London embellished headpiece from Christmas Day?! While the future British royal has wowed us with each and every outfit she steps out in, we can only wonder who's footing the bill for these expensive items. And now, it appears we may have our answer.
According to People, both Meghan and Prince Harry are paying for her impressive wardrobe themselves, but when the couple say "I do" on May 19, that will all change. Meghan's clothing for official royal outings will be paid for by the allowance that Prince Charles gives to Prince William, Kate Middleton, and Harry from his income, totaling around $28 million.
People also reports that Meghan's impressive wardrobe is paid for out of their own pockets and that royals do not accept designer clothes for free. For Kate, her assistant will "call in several options from designers. After they have chosen an outfit, the others are returned and the one that is worn is paid for," and it's believed Meghan will have the same process after her wedding.
Read on to see some of Meghan's most impressive looks. Then, gush over her street style that she's been wowing us with since 2013.
How to Wear Patent Leather Without Looking Like Derek Zoolander
During every Fashion Month, there's always one standout trend seen both on and off the runway, and this season was patent leather's time to shine . . . literally. Not only did the glossy fabric walk the catwalks of top designers, but street style stars have also already made the sleek trend their own. Editors, bloggers, and influencers alike stood out in a sea of stylish showgoers thanks to the statement-making fabric.
Whether you go all out in a luxe patent leather trench or opt for a pair of high-shine boots, be sure to take the fashion pack's cue and incorporate the lustrous material into your wardrobe this season. Read through to see how street style stars have rocked the trend, and then shop our favorite patent pieces in stores now.
Don't Let Bella Hadid's Shiny Coat Distract You From Her Classic Shoes
Fashion Month is over, but Bella Hadid's keeping busy with other events. The model is the face of Dior Makeup's lacquer plump campaign, so she popped by a party for the brand on March 14. For the festivities, Bella rocked a silver metallic trench coat and a wide black belt. A white button-down shirt peeked out from underneath her coat's collar. While she definitely stood out in her futuristic ensemble, Bella's classic kitten heels caught our eye.
The pair of black Dior slingbacks are ones every fashion girl dreams of owning, and it's no surprise Bella has a pair. This versatile shoe can be worn with a dress, jeans, or even skirts. We loved how Bella experimented on top with her outfit but kept it timeless on the bottom with these shoes. Read on for a closer look, then shop similar slingback heels and Bella's exact pair, too.
From Divorce Papers to Diamond Grills, the Most Insane Things Left Behind in Ubers Last Year
Let's be honest: you'd be hard pressed to find a single person in this world who hasn't left something in an Uber. And while most of the time the item left behind is fairly innocuous - a wallet, a phone, an umbrella - I've often found myself wondering not just how often this happens, but how often a rider accidentally forgets something a tad more important.
Well, thanks to Uber's second annual Lost and Found Index, we've finally got the answers and - spoiler alert - they're absolutely hilarious. From the most forgetful cities to the most memorable items found in Ubers across the country, read through to check out all the data from the report - and hot tip: you'll want to scroll all the way through to the oh-so-satisfying end. And if nothing else, you might want to check your Uber for your belongings if you plan to take a ride over the next 365 days . . . otherwise you might find yourself at the top of next year's list of left-behinds.
Attention Music Lovers: Here's Why You Should Consider Investing in an Apple HomePod ASAP
The Apple HomePod has been years in the making - and now that it's totally available in retail stores and online, it's time to truly consider if the $349 price tag is worth it. While it may not be the smart home assistant of the future just yet - and if you're looking for that capability, there are other options on the market which will suit you better - there is a strong case to be made for it being the ultimate music lover's speaker. Not only is the sound quality out of this world, the HomePod also comes armed with the most incredible range of music personalization available. After spending a couple of weeks using the combination of Apple Music and Apple's smart speaker, I can officially say that it dramatically upped the quality of my music game (and, naturally, opened my eyes to a whole world of new music that I never knew existed.)
Scroll on to take a deep dive into HomePod's brilliant Apple Music-powered skills - and yes, we'll be covering not just what you need to know as a prospective buyer, but also what every HomePod owner should know about their brilliant new device.
Hey Siri, Play Some Music
With HomePod, the simplest command - "hey Siri, play some music" - opens a whole new world of music that's customized around the preferences you've entered into Apple Music. The company says that you're guaranteed to get a couple fresh tracks every time you do this, and it's a great way to get some sound going in your home without having to know exactly what it is you want to hear at that very second. But it doesn't end there: the more you tell Siri about what you do and don't like - "hey Siri, I love this!" - the better your picks will be going forward. And if you're totally over what it is you're listening to, just say "hey Siri, play something different," and voila, you'll find the polar opposite of what you were just sick of mere seconds before.
Don't Sleep on Apple's Curated Playlists
One of the most important things to note about Apple Music's curated playlists is that there are no machines involved - each and every playlist is handcrafted by human editors who love the music just as much as you do, and feel passionately about the songs that are chosen to be featured. And while the better-known feature for playlists is that you can ask Siri to play a specific kind of music or genre, it's important to note that you can also dive into a specific artist as well - for popular artists, their discography will be sliced into three categories: Essentials, Next Steps, and Deep Cuts. For a newbie, Essentials is clearly the place to start, whereas Deep Cuts will play the fan favorites that maybe didn't make it to the top of the charts but are just as good (and in some cases, even better!)
Siri Can Hear You - No Matter What
Before I brought home the HomePod, one of the things I truly struggled with when it came to my existing speakers was getting the smart assistant to hear me over the (ever-increasing) volume. Not only does HomePod blow the max volume of every single other speaker out of the water - and trust me, I did some pretty extensive testing to try and confirm that fact - but Siri also always heard my voice, no matter how loud the volume went or how crazy the music got. And that's not to say that I had to stand in front of the speaker, either; instead, I could shout from across the room and Siri instantly responded to my call. In other words, you never have to worry about having to fiddle with buttons or search for your phone, and there's no way to emphasize just how much that changes the quality of your listening experience.
Tap Into Apple Music With Your Voice
While we're on the subject of Siri, it's worth noting that there's an enormous range of information available in Apple Music that lets you ask questions about the musician, song, or album with just a couple key words. "Hey Siri, who's the lead singer of this band?" may seem like a no-brainer, but when it's a cover or something along those lines there's no need to ask a search engine or even go near your phone to get the skinny. And if you find something that you really can't get enough of - and trust me, the more you use HomePod, the more you'll find this happens - you can add it to your playlist instantly through Siri and listen to it on all your other Apple devices right away.
Finally, a Podcast Can Sound Good
One of the biggest complaints I've had about speakers as of late is the quality that's displayed when you play your favorite podcast. In general, it tends to feel flat, weird, and somewhat out of bodyish - and yet with the HomePod the quality doesn't go down, it shoots through the roof. Another game-changing podcast feature is that there's no fiddling around with third-party apps to try and find what you want to listen to - just tell Siri want you want to listen to and it instantly plays. You can also subscribe to the podcast should you choose to, and they'll automatically populate in your iOS Podcast app when there's a new episode to check out.
Whatever You Do, Don't Sit in This Row on Your Next Flight
I recently survived a six-hour flight without being able to recline my seat. I thought to myself, Seriously? What are the chances of this happening again?, referring to another lengthy trip I had flown just months before. And then as I continued to think back on most of my recent flights, I realized that I've had a "broken" seat on multiple occasions - cue the ultimate face-palm moment. I always aim to book the closest seat to the front as possible and usually, the closest available option on Virgin America air crafts is row eight - aka the one in front of the exit row, but also known as the row that doesn't recline.
It makes total sense! Just as you're required to keep your tray tables upright during takeoff and landing, the exit row in particular needs to remain unobstructed for safety. It would only make it more difficult for those passengers to assist in an emergency if the seats in front of them were in the way. If you enjoy neck and back pain, book a seat in that row, by all means.
In addition to the row in front of the exit row, here are a few other sections you should really try to avoid on your next flight.
- The last row: Sure, you're conveniently located near the bathroom - but you're also right next to the bathroom. On top of unpleasant smells, you'll also have to deal with standing passengers waiting for their turn in line. Oh, and your seat doesn't recline, either.
- The exit row: Extra legroom is awesome, but this spot also comes with a couple drawbacks. Depending on your aircraft, your seat's tray table may fold into the armrest, which usually equals a narrower seat. And if your plane has two exit rows, the first row of seats don't recline.
- The bulkhead row: These seats are situated in the first row of the main cabin, behind the wall that separates you from first class. Again, you get to enjoy extra legroom but your seat will most likely be narrower to accommodate the tray table in your arm rest. Plus, you won't be able to stow your personal items beneath the seat in front of you, so you'll have to access the overhead compartment each time you need something.
As a Biracial Woman and Former Evangelical, Trump's Racism Is All Too Familiar
I used to be an evangelical Christian. I helped lead people in worship, or "ushered them into the presence of God," as we used to say. I traveled the world crooning out the message of the gospel at conferences hosted by my church, a mostly white evangelical megachurch in the suburbs of Chicago. On the weekends I sang for as many as 16,000 people. It was a lofty thing to be part of, a "calling" I believed in wholeheartedly. During the years that I served in this congregation, before I walked away from the religion I'd grown up with and embraced even more intensely in college, racial reconciliation as a ministry focus became more prevalent in my church. This term - "racial reconciliation" - may be most familiar to those in religious communities. Back then, I understood it to be a kind of evangelical model for tackling racism in the church, one that emphasized diversity, relationships, and the need to address systemic causes fueling racism in society. However, these same ideals and goals are also embodied in more widely known terms like racial justice and social justice.
When the leadership team decided to do a series of services focused on this topic, I was drafted to tell a piece of my story. As a biracial woman - and usually the only woman of color singing on stage - it seemed my time had come. I wrote a brief account, summarizing in one minute a personal experience with racism. The memory I chose to relate involved a family in that church, though I didn't reveal that detail. I told the congregation about how a former white boyfriend's parents, particularly his mother, persuaded him to end our relationship because they were uncomfortable with my blackness. I said the fact that they were all Christians undermined my confidence in God's love for me; it made me wonder if He loved white Christians more than black ones. I sang a song about love and unity and building bridges.
People came up to me afterwards, some weeping, apologizing for random things. Looking for absolution that I could not give. Seeing in me - at least for a moment - the entire black community, because for better or worse, we are never singular, always plural. I soaked it up. In that era of my life, I wanted to believe I was like Esther and had been called "'for such a time as this' (NIV, Esther 4:14)." I was inspired and hopeful. Maybe the church could help bridge that space between black and white. Maybe because I'd come from both places, I was uniquely equipped to be part of that healing. I love my family - black and white. But there had been a rift long ago, and I'd grown up occupying the expanse between them. It was lonely and I was sick of it. I wanted healing for myself and, on a larger scale, for all of us.
That was in 2001. By the time Barack Obama was elected to his first term in 2008, I no longer wanted to be part of any church environment. Disillusionment festered over that 7 year period as I witnessed a hyper-image-conscious handling of ministries and the people in them, a theological certainty among fellow congregants I couldn't relate to, and culminated in a manipulative and misleading interview process for a ministry job in the church. Ultimately, the thread of racism running through my time there put me over the edge. Indeed, in the years that followed the experience with my ex's family, I racked up more than a few racially charged confrontations with white Christian friends and acquaintances from the church. There were comments about darker black skin looking like an ape's; there was an email I received warning me that Barack Obama was not a citizen. All these moments left me with a nagging skepticism about the efficacy of racial reconciliation as a ministry in the church. Did the white evangelicals who subscribed to it in theory really want to help? Did they really want justice? Maybe a better question is were they able to see something in themselves that needed to change to bring any of this to fruition? Or were they in denial?
The 2016 election of Donald Trump and its aftermath incited that skepticism about racial justice in me once again. In fact, on a recent Sunday, as the banal melodies of contemporary worship music wafted up through my dining room windows from a nearby nondenominational church, my thoughts began revisiting the past. I recalled that moment on stage at the megachurch, talking about my ex's family. I thought about what it had been like for me as a biracial woman in a mostly white evangelical congregation. Why white evangelicals voted for a man like Mr. Trump and why I'd experienced the racism I did while among them seemed like twin inquiries comingling in my mind as I got my daughter's breakfast ready that morning. Two spoonfuls of cottage cheese and one poached egg later, I puzzled over one simple fact: Trump spoke in the language of racists and xenophobes and it seemed to be of minimal concern at best or resonate with them at worst. It was certainly not enough to dissuade them from casting their votes in his favor.
Even now, it appears they continue to stand by him: even after Charlottesville; even after chastising black athletes for peaceful protests against police brutality, suggesting they are ungrateful, calling them disrespectful "sons of b*tches." Even after Trump's tepid response to Puerto Rico's suffering following Hurricane Maria, his "blame the victim" stance, and his thinly veiled threats to remove aid, he is rewarded with their loyalty. In fact, it seems as if the "conversation" happening now only includes them while the rest of us watch and listen on the sidelines.
It is not my intention to paint all of evangelicalism with a broad brush. I know there is a contingency within this branch of Christianity that is sincere about racial justice. They are inspired by people like Reverend Jim Wallis and Reverend Dr. William Barber. They are comprised of mostly blacks, Hispanics, and Asian and Pacific Islanders, but also a large number of whites. They did not vote for Donald Trump. (I don't personally see how anyone that truly cares about such things could.) But they were not - and seemingly are not - the majority. I can only speak to what I was exposed to while active in a predominantly white evangelical subculture. Perhaps all of these scenarios I've related were unique to the church I once attended. But I suspect it is symptomatic of a bigger problem in the church at large.
For a good portion of my life, I have been timid when faced with racist comments or behaviors demonstrated by white people. I default to the social survival instincts born out of a childhood spent in racial isolation. Giving the "benefit of the doubt" has typically been my modus operandi. It often translates to silence or the most palatable, watered-down version of what I really want to express. On those infrequent occasions when I've called out a white friend or family member's propensity for racial bias and/or racist thinking, they are not able to own it for long, if at all. The deflection and defensiveness that often follows comes in various forms of "you should be grateful," "what aboutisms," and other false equivalences or excuses.
This was the way with my ex-boyfriend's mother. Not long after I spoke during the racial-reconciliation-themed services at my old church, she called to apologize "for the way we treated you," she said. There had been a pang of conscience. Maybe she'd heard me speak or someone close to her had. I could hear anxiety in her voice, a rushing through sentences and marginal regret. She couldn't commit to it, though, and quickly began defending her actions. She objected to us as a couple "out of concern for what her son would face." She had students who were biracial and saw "how hard it was for them, caught in the middle." It's a twisted logic that masquerades as caring but seems to suggest I, and others like me, would be be better off not existing. She lectured me, a biracial woman, as if I had no clue what my hypothetical children would face. I wanted to say, "It's people who think like you that make it difficult." Instead, I listened and thanked her for calling. She was afraid and embraced a response to that fear which she knew was inappropriate. Nevertheless, her discomfort with interracial marriage and biracial children rated above doing the right thing. In the end, she let herself off the hook. And to my regret, so did I.
While I was part of the megachurch, I often observed this same troubling attitude around race, typically in moments when I did not strive to be palatable but was more straightforward, less "sugar coated." It articulates itself with an air of kindly smugness, in which the righteousness of an evangelical Christian is sacrosanct. It can not be challenged with charges of racism. They have, after all, been remade in Christ's image and imbued with the power of the Holy Spirit. How can they be guilty of racism? They don't use the "N" word and they may even have black friends. They don't engage in lynchings or burn crosses or march with neo Nazis and white supremacists. They denounce these things publicly, so isn't that proof they are blameless? They are good, Christian people. And yet, they have empowered and continue to support a man who repeatedly demonstrates that he does not value the lives of black and brown people as much as white ones. He has put me and my family in harm's way with his inability or unwillingness to definitively and authentically disavow white supremacy. Like my ex-boyfriend's mother, white evangelicals are so thoroughly convinced by and invested in a sense of their own righteousness and moral high ground, they have undone the work of reconciliation.
That Sunday morning in church all those years ago, I did not share what were, for me, profoundly more intense details of the relationship with my ex-boyfriend's family. Granted, I was one of many people on the stage that day. I had to be brief. But I often wish I hadn't tried so hard to make what I needed to say easier for the church to hear. I still remember the shame and bewildered frustration in my ex's voice as he repeated his mother's words to me over the phone: "If the two of you date, that's fine . . . but if you got married and had children . . . I'm not sure I could love them as much as I love your sister's kids." Such words took my breath away then and still have the power to suffocate, especially now that I do have a child who is biracial. I wish I'd told the congregation about those remarks and that they'd been made by a woman among their own ranks. As long as white evangelicals believe this mindset is only wreaking havoc in other places, they are absolved from having to address it among themselves.
Even though I no longer see myself as a part of that community, I still carry a certain amount of love for it and residual pain from it. There is some piece of me that still hopes the church has something valuable to contribute to the cause of racial justice. It's probably why I feel the need to, in my own way, hold white evangelicals accountable. I want them to do better.
But when I consider the very real danger of war as Trump threatens North Korea, angers our allies, and alarms even those close to him enough to speak out about it, I can see that opposing ideologies and differences aside, we are all of us bound together in our shared vulnerability against a true existential crisis. This awakens my compassion, my desire to find common ground, and a willingness to have those hard conversations. My past with the evangelical church is akin to being wounded, soul-deep, by a family member or close friend: you may want to make peace with them somehow, but you do so with the knowledge that you might never be as close as you once were. A price has to be paid, and truth is the currency.
Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump Are Divorcing After 12 Years of Marriage
Donald Trump Jr. and Vanessa Trump are splitting after 12 years of marriage. On March 15, Page Six reported that Vanessa had officially filed for divorce in the Manhattan Supreme Court. The couple married in 2005 at the Trump family's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach. Together, they share five children: two daughters and three sons. Vanessa reportedly filed for an uncontested proceeding, meaning she does not want to initiate a lengthy legal battle over custody or assets.
James Corden and Shaggy Remix "It Wasn't Me" to Mock Trump Over the Russia Probe, and LOL
Today in "I never saw this one coming, but I'm here for it" news, James Corden just teamed up with Shaggy to perform a Donald Trump-inspired remix of "It Wasn't Me," and it's nothing short of hysterical. In The Late Late Show segment, the duo raps about Robert Mueller's investigation into Russia's interference in the 2016 election, with Corden playing the role of Special Counsel Mueller and Shaggy assuming the part of President Trump.
At one point in the skit, Corden as Mueller sings, "I just came in and I caught him red-handed tangled in a web of lies. Say goodbye to your friends in Russia, hello to the FBI," to the tune of Shaggy's 2000 hit song. Watch the clip above to hear the rest of the hilarious one-liners they came up with.
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, they're great sources for relationship advice. See what Uber drivers across America recommend in the name of love.
This 16-Year-Old Walked Out of His High School - Alone - on National Walkout Day
Wow I'm literally the only one #NationalSchoolWalkout pic.twitter.com/2F95qY2vTI
- Justin Blackman (@JustinIBlackman) March 14, 2018
Justin Blackman made a promise to walk out of his school campus on Wednesday, March 14, in support of the national school walkout that called for an end to mass shootings. The catch? He was the only student in his school to do so.
The 16-year-old left his desk at Wilson Preparatory Academy in Wilson, NC, at 10:00 a.m. and stood outside alone for 17 minutes - a minute for each person killed in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School mass shooting, which occurred Feb. 14 in Parkland, FL. Wilson Preparatory has about 700 students.
In a video that he shared on Twitter and which has since gone viral, Blackman explained that he was in Spanish class when he got up to leave. He said no one in the room said anything, except for his teacher, who allowed Blackman to participate. "He let me walk out. He didn't really care," Blackman said.
Blackman told CNN his classmates didn't seem to know about the walkout when he spoke to them about it that morning. He said while he was disappointed no one else participated, the moment was eye-opening.
"Now I truly know that one person is all it takes," he said. "No matter the age, skin color, gender - it doesn't matter."
Blackman said a student congratulated him when he returned to the classroom. While Wilson Preparatory wouldn't comment on the walkouts, Janet Conner-Knox, who handles public relations for the school, did tell CNN, "We teach our students to be independent thinkers."
The responses to Blackman's actions have been overwhelmingly positive on Twitter. While some students have been punished for yesterday's walkout, including more than 200 students in Pennsylvania who will be issued detention, it's inspiring to see the support and praise student protesters received for yesterday's protest.
The Most Striking Images From the National School Walkout Against Gun Violence
On March 14, thousands of students and administrators across the nation walked out of their schools in order to protest gun violence as part of the Enough! National School Walkout. The event took place exactly one month after the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School claimed 17 lives in Parkland, FL, and is the culmination of a significant effort on behalf of teenagers across the country looking to change gun policy once and for all.
In the nation's capital, students marched down Pennsylvania Avenue and, upon reaching the White House, sat in silence for 17 minutes to honor victims of the shooting. Members of Congress including Chuck Schumer, Bernie Sanders, and Nancy Pelosi were also in attendance. At press time, demonstrations have also taken place in New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and more. A walkout also occurred at Newtown High School in Sandy Hook, CT, where a shooting at an elementary school claimed 28 lives in 2012.
The demonstration at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School was one of the most powerful scenes to emerge from the day's events. The sign in front of the school was surrounded by flowers, cards, and candles, and several protesters held sketches of those killed in the shooting. Students were also invited to give speeches and address their fellow classmates about the issues at hand. "We should all be in school. We should be studying for tests that we will probably fail," joked senior Leonor Munoz, adding, "But we face a test of the future."
So, This Dog Looks EXACTLY Like a Person, and No, the Pictures Aren't Photoshopped
Yogi, a 1-year-old Shih-Poo who lives with his owner, Chantal Desjardins, in New England, has an especially unique quality most dog owners can't relate to: he has the face of a damn human being. Chantal told POPSUGAR she wasn't the one who noticed the uncanny resemblance - it was her friends on social media, of course.
"I'm actually not the one who realized it! I posted the picture on my Facebook back in December, and my friends were like, 'Um, he looks like a real person.' I was just posting it because he and his sister, Darla, got groomed and she rips bows out of her hair so fast!"
As for how Yogi spends his afternoons? Well, it's definitely in line with your regular dog day. "He loves playing fetch, running around, and snuggling." To make matters even funnier, according to his owner, he's definitely not fazed one iota by his newfound fame . . . unless it's in the form of treats, that is. "He slept through his whole interview when it aired on Inside Edition," said Chantal. "He's loving the extra cookies him and Darla have been getting for apparently no reason."
Can't argue there. And as for the speculation that the pictures are photoshopped? Totally out of the question! "They're not at all," said Chantal. "I'm not that skilled."
Scroll through to see some of Yogi's best glamour shots. What a good boy, right?
The Best iPhone X Cases of 2018
So, you finally took the plunge and got the iPhone X. Congratulations! Now that you've got the newest, hippest gadget on the market right now, it's time to make sure that you don't find yourself on line at the Apple store a week from now, cradling your newly dropped phone and pleading for a second chance - in other words, it's time to properly protect your device. But before you stress out about going through every case on the internet to find the right one, click ahead: here, we've pulled together 23 of the best iPhone X cases out there at the moment. From the chicest fashion statements to the most tough-and-rugged models on the market, there's something here for everyone - and we'll be updating this post as new ones become available, so be sure to check back as the year progresses.
Obama's Farewell to Stephen Hawking Will Absolutely Break Your Heart
Have fun out there among the stars. pic.twitter.com/S285MTwGtp
- Barack Obama (@BarackObama) March 14, 2018
Barack Obama has always had a way with words, and after news broke that one of the greatest minds of a generation, Stephen Hawking, had passed away on March 13, the former president tweeted out a heartbreaking farewell that has left everyone on the internet in tears.
"Have fun out there among the stars," Obama tweeted along with a photo from when he awarded Hawking with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012. Obama is the latest high-profile individual to weigh in on the devastating loss of the scientist, a man who forever changed the world with his groundbreaking work across a number of disciplines.
Despite being diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease in 1963, Hawking spent more than a half century continuing on with his work - even going so far as to use a computer to enable him to continue speaking to others after being paralyzed. He was also a fierce critic of President Donald Trump, saying back in 2016 that the current president "will cause avoidable environmental damage" by continuing to deny climate change and withdrawing from the Paris climate change agreement.
Hawking passed away at the age of 76. "We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today," his family said in a statement, adding, "He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years."
4 Dreamers Remember the Moment They Learned They Were Undocumented
While many recipients of DACA - who are known as Dreamers - grow up in the US fully aware they are undocumented, that's not the case for everyone. In fact, some Dreamers had little to no knowledge that they came into the country illegally until one jarring moment revealed the truth. Some lived their young lives thinking their future held the same opportunities as their classmates' and friends' - only to find out later that their paths would be uncertain.
The Development, Relief, and Education For Alien Minors Act, or Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals, has been in limbo since the Trump administration announced its plans to rescind the program in September 2017. DACA was first established as an executive order by then-President Barack Obama in 2012; it allows protections for recipients under the age of 31 who were brought into the country illegally before their 16th birthday.
While the Supreme Court did buy DACA recipients some more time with its decision to not hear arguments from Congress on the program's future - therefore allowing DACA to continue - the ongoing debate over immigration still leaves many Dreamers uncertain and fearing the worst.
POPSUGAR spoke to Dreamers who still remember clearly the surprise and dread they felt when they discovered they were undocumented. Here are their stories.
An Astronaut's Genes No Longer Match His Twin's - What's to Blame, Space or Stress?
Astronaut Scott Kelly is remarkable for many reasons. He is a twin, has written multiple books, was commander of the International Space Station, and once had a serious Twitter bromance with Barack Obama. He also set the record for the longest consecutive time in space by an American astronaut, spending a total of 520 days in space with his longest run being a 340-day mission.
But Kelly's most remarkable feat was recently revealed to be a byproduct of his ultralong space runs: Kelly's DNA has changed so much that it no longer matches that of his identical twin, Mark Kelly.
NASA studied both twins as a part of its Twins Study to compare what happened when one twin spent an extended period of time in space while the other remained back on Earth. The findings, according to CNN, found that seven percent of Kelly's genes are no longer the same and no longer match his brother's. That seven percent mismatch - which scientists are now calling "space genes" - represents changes in RNA and DNA that are likely the result of oxygen deprivation, radiation, and calorie restriction, among other factors. It's also worth noting that space enables a "hyperactive immune activity" as well as changes in blood clotting and bone formation, likely the result of extended time in zero gravity.
What's most curious about Kelly's changes, though, are their connection to stress. The findings note that spaceflight stress can enable genetic mutations, turning genes on and off and affecting cellular functions. The stress was so big that his mitochondria - the so-called energizing "powerhouse of the cell" - may have been damaged due to his intergalactic travels. Similarly, the ends of Kelly's chromosomes, his telomeres, also changed in length - a signal typically attributed to aging.
While extended space time altering human DNA is fascinating, it raises a big question: did Kelly's genes actually change because of space or because of the stress associated with space?
This stuff about the astronaut's genes diverging from his twin's is cool but it's not necessarily caused by time in space, specifically. The expression of genes is altered in all of us, especially by stressors.
- heidi heilig (@heidiheilig) March 15, 2018
It's an obvious question that isn't as far fetched (or as far away from an answer) as it might seem. For example, in late 2017, a study of mice revealed that stress changed the animals' DNA due to environmental factors. Moreover, a 2015 study by the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found mitochondrial function can change due to mild stress, largely due to our response to said stressors. The latter study sought to recognize these changes in the hopes of helping physicians manage patient stress in order to curb the onset of stress-related diseases like heart disease.
A similar signal - the change in telomere length - has also been associated with stress depression. A study of women with stress-related depression by the Wellcome Trust Centre For Human Genetics sought to find if telomere length shifts in stressed women were the fault of stress. Once again using mice, the study found that stress did indeed contribute to shortening telomeres and that this happening is perhaps a metabolic reaction to stress. The silver lining here is that these effects can partly be reversed by how we handle stressful situations.
Naturally, the space stress and earth stress are very different, but the connection between them highlights how much stress can change the body. Considering how remarkably stressed Americans are (mostly because we don't know where our nation is heading), these findings are of note to more than just the Kelly twins and serve as a reminder of self-care and the devastating power of stress. If anything, Kelly may not be as unique as NASA thinks he is since we all might have "space genes" - the difference is we just call that being stressed out.
Articles
