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.
mardi 8 mai 2018
Thanos Is Coming to Fortnite For an Avengers: Infinity War Crossover, and We Are So Freakin' Excited
The battle begins tomorrow... pic.twitter.com/NQ9BDH2BeG
- Fortnite (@FortniteGame) May 7, 2018
Unless you've been living under a rock, chances are you've at least heard whispers about two of the most-talked about phenomenons of 2018: Fortnite: Battle Royale and Avengers: Infinity War. And while the video game and movie (respectively) don't seem to have a whole lot in common, on May 7, the internet was set ablaze with the news that in a mere 24 hours, a mash-up of the two ultraviral franchises will be set loose upon the world.
me tomorrow when that fortnite x avengers infinity war collab drops pic.twitter.com/w1hVnP2S5R
- @Krazygio suspended (@Krazygioo) May 7, 2018
Fortnite, a multiplayer co-op centered on 100 players fighting to be the last man standing, has been the breakout game of the year thus far. And according to Entertainment Weekly, the limited-time run of the Avengers-themed gameplay will feature an Infinity Gauntlet. "The artifact containing all six Infinity Stones - the same one Thanos used to cripple Earth's Mightiest Heroes on the big screen - will appear on the map," it reported, adding, "Whomsoever finds and equips it will transform into Thanos himself, wielding all the power that comes with him."
Trying to say this without spoiling Infinity War...
but if you find the gauntlet in Fortnite does that mean that you can...
ya know...
👌🏼 ⚖️- davis. (@OpTicHitch) May 7, 2018
While details are being kept under wraps at this stage - and there's no indication as to what Thanos's involvement will, in fact, be - you can bet we'll be keeping a very close eye on social media until the mash-up drops. So stay tuned, and at the very least, make sure your Fortnite is fully up-to-date (and your credit card information accurate!) as we have a feeling you're going to want to check out this new development ASAP.
What You Need to Know About Snapchat's New Bitmoji Deluxe
Snapchat first launched a Bitmoji integration back in the summer of 2016, allowing users to insert their very own cartoon avatars into their snaps and chats with a few simple taps on their mobile phones. A year and a half later, Bitmoji is an integral part of the platform; from 3D World Lenses to Snap Map Actionmojis, they're one of the most fun ways to put yourself in the center of the action, and share your experiences with friends and family. But on Jan. 30, Snapchat announced a very, very exciting new update - and it goes by the name of Bitmoji Deluxe.
The update - which is based, in part, on feedback collected from Snapchat's many users - offers a far broader selection of skin tones, physical attributes, and style choices in an effort to make Bitmoji more inclusive. What's more, each avatar no longer needs to be heteronormative; instead, a Bitmoji can draw from masculine and feminine attributes in order to best represent the user.
Bitmoji Deluxe also comes with the ability to build your avatar side-by-side with a selfie of your choosing, allowing for the easiest avatar creation imaginable - and, naturally, the chance to take into account each and every one of the hundreds of new choices you now have when deciding what your Bitmoji looks like. And if you aren't interested in updating your Bitmoji, you have the option to keep your avatar as is - when you go to the settings menu in Snapchat and then select "change avatar style," you can choose to remain with Bitmoji "Classic," go back to Bitstrips, or upgrade to Bitmoji Deluxe.
Ahead, check out the new Bitmoji Deluxe in action - and get ready to make your best Snapchat Bitmoji avatar yet.
7 To-Do List Apps to Help You Sort Out Your Life
As someone who loves planning and making lists of every single task I need to finish, it's been a struggle figuring out the right way to create a to-do list. I used to write everything down in a planner, but when I was at work, I'd end up writing other tasks on Post-it notes - and they'd never make it back to my planner. After finally giving up my planner, I decided it was time to give in and download an app to suit my to-do list needs. If you're trying to do the same, take a look at the seven apps we like ahead. Most are free to download but include premium features you'll need to pay for.
20 Utterly Shocking Photos of the Devastating Volcanic Eruption in Hawaii
Hawaii's Kilauea volcano first erupted last week after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake rocked Big Island, and a staggering four days later it continues to spew lava. The damage to the Leilani Estates neighborhood is ongoing, and as of the morning of May 7, 35 structures (including at least 26 homes) have been destroyed, according to CNN. Residents first spotted cracks forming in some roads on May 2, and by May 4, the volcano's cracks began to release steam, ultimately bursting with lava after the giant earthquake hit. The county ordered more than 1,500 residents to evacuate.
"We have heard from people around the world concerned about Hawaii's welfare and want to reassure everyone that this is limited to a remote region on the slopes of Kilauea volcano," Hawaii Governor David Ige said in a statement. "Everywhere else in the Hawaiian Islands is not affected." But scientists predict there could be more eruptions and earthquakes "perhaps for months to come," so the effects are far from over. The massive earthquake is the biggest one to hit Big Island since 1975, and Kilauea is one of the world's most active volcanoes.
Leilani Estates residents are flocking to American Red Cross shelters and finding safe ground as lava flows and smoke billows through their neighborhood. Take a look at 20 images from the natural disaster that show just how surreal it is.
The 11 Creative Design Trends That Will Define 2018
Let's be honest: there are few greater pleasures in life than spotting a perfect, gorgeous, inescapable image that stays with you for days. It's what drives Instagram users to dig deep for that perfect inspiring photo, and why Pinterest continues to be the go-to destination for Zen planning. But for stock photo, video, and music agency Shutterstock - a company that specializes in that perfect image - our searching and downloading habits also help to provide an altogether different service: predicting exactly what will drive creative design over the coming weeks and months.
The 2018 edition of Shutterstock's Creative Trends Report was released on Jan. 17 and provides a huge amount of insight into what the internet loved the most last year and how the most popular searches will define design aesthetics in the year to come. Ahead, check out the 11 trends that the company predicts will "dominate" pop culture and design this year - and be sure to check out the full report over on the Shutterstock site.
How My Father and Other Latinx Business Owners Are Dealing With the New Age of Gentefication
Image Source: Instagram user elabuelo.restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles County, in the city of San Fernando, you'll find a restaurant that offers birria, micheladas, and mariachi every Friday night. It's called El Abuelo, and it's been owned and operated by my father for the last 15 years.
My father took over ownership two weeks shy of my 12th birthday. I worked at El Abuelo until I turned 24 - and in case you were wondering, yes, it was weird being the only kid at my middle school with a job. Over the years, my best friend and a few family members were also among the restaurant's staff; my stepmother, who met my father at the restaurant, now co-owns the business with my father. That small print on our business cards that says "Family owned and operated"? Yeah, we aren't bluffing.
While our family-friendly motto and clientele have remained the same, our neighborhood hasn't. Chipotle, Buffalo Wild Wings, and multiple sushi joints are just some of our newer, more corporate neighbors - but their arrivals didn't worry my father. He firmly believed his customers, which admittedly were temporarily distracted by the fancier, shinier establishments, would eventually make their way back to their favorite bowl of menudo in a few weeks' time. He wasn't wrong, thankfully, and while the restaurant continues to thrive, I still can't help but worry that it will one day be swept away by gentrification, or its browner, equally problematic relative: gentefication.
Gentefication's Complex, Brown History
Gentefication (no, that's not a typo) is a relatively new term, one that still hasn't received a Webster definition. But it's made more than a few cameos in articles by The New York Times and various community blogs. The important distinction here is that gentefiers aren't strangers to their communities - they're actually from the neighborhood they're helping gentrify. It's a play on the word "gente," which means "people" in Spanish, and gentrification, which means the process of renovating neighborhoods by conforming to middle-class taste and displacing low-income businesses. When we think of gentrifiers, many of us imagine a Caucasian middle-class hipster with a man bun and a plate of $12 avocado toast, not a community member who might've grown up in the same block as the small business they're pushing out. As Gustavo Arellano, California columnist for the Los Angeles Times, puts it, "Gentefication is basically gentrification with a brown happy face."
I may be sipping a sangria while bobbing my head to Cardi B, but at what cost?
While the exact origin of the word is still up for debate, Los Angeles Magazine credits Guillermo Uribe, owner of Boyle Heights bar Eastside Luv, for coming up with the label in 2007. In an interview with the magazine several years ago, Uribe, a self-proclaimed gentefier, explained, "If gentrification is happening, it might as well be from people who care about the existing culture. In the case of Boyle Heights, it would be best if the gente decide to invest in improvements because they are more likely to preserve its integrity."
I have been a customer of Uribe's bar for almost five years, and not just because of its amazing sangria - because it is one of the few places where I can dance to Drake and corridos in the same night. Being a first-generation Mexican-American woman in my late 20s, I fall into the (almost) cliche group of Latinxs who idolize Frida Kahlo, dance to Morrissey, and quote 1997's Selena (anything for Selenas!). Businesses like Uribe's speak to the unique, blended upbringing and tastes of first-, second-, and even third-generation Latinxs like myself. But instead of fixing their neighborhood's existing gentrification problem, they're adding to it by displacing immigrant businesses. I may be sipping a sangria while bobbing my head to Cardi B, but at what cost?
Image Source: Natalie Rivera
New vs. Old Fashion
If my dad could describe his customer demographic, he'd guess that half of his customers are on the older side of the spectrum. He's OK with that, and why shouldn't he be? These customers who've been coming back for years, despite newer, hipper restaurants moving in, are paying his bills. The food and family-friendly environment have more or less remained the same; while my dad has made some new additions to the restaurant, he's ignored advice from friends, family, and even me - all of whom have suggested the staff make more of an effort to attract younger customers. Instead, my dad has chosen to focus on providing his regulars with the restaurant they know and love. And according to Arellano, my dad is making a smart move.
"I think the best advertising I have is word of mouth."
"Hipsters are parasites, frankly," Arellano told me during a recent phone conversation. "They suck out the life of a neighborhood, and then once it's not cool anymore, they go somewhere else, so I would warn against trying to appeal to this new demographic."
A few years back, my stepmother suggested that my father and his staff be extra cordial to millennial customers, because they might be more inclined to share photos of our food on social media. "Be nice to the foodies," she'd tell my dad. While his wife's suggestion, in retrospect, made sense, it didn't really help the restaurant in any meaningful way.
"Honestly, I've never seen any foodie bring in business to my place," my dad told me. "I think the best advertising I have is word of mouth. I have paid for advertising, and honestly I don't see any difference. I think the place, the service, speaks for itself."
Arellano is also a strong believer in the power of word-of-mouth advertising. It's possible for immigrant-run businesses to attract old and new customers, he notes; for proof, look no further than the loncheras, or food trucks, in the city of Santa Ana where Arellano works.
"There's a lonchera, a pink taco truck, that gets a whole lot of hipsters," Arellano explained. "But it still gets, like, the lack of the term, the paisas, you know, the working-class Mexicans, and they haven't changed anything."
Staying true to your product and to your customers might seem like a great weapon, the most viable way forward for immigrant business owners fighting gentrification and gentefication - but in actuality, it might not be enough. So, what is?
Image Source: Natalie Rivera
Landlords Don't Owe Us Sh*t
"A landlord has no obligation to his community or to the community where his properties are."
Ah, landlords. With their suits and their formal notices, landlords are arguably the people's greatest and oldest villain. Yet, while some of us might not agree with their development plans and rent increases, the truth of the matter is, landlords really don't owe us sh*t.
"A landlord has no obligation to his community or to the community where his properties are," Arellano explained. "His or her obligation is to their pocketbook, so the only real way that businesses can protect themselves is by becoming their own landlords."
My father is not his own landlord, and while I fully believe in the power of his hustle, with the rising property rates in San Fernando, I doubt he'll own the building the restaurant's situated in anytime soon. Arellano points to how difficult and expensive it is to own a building and names it as a reason he recommends business owners team up with community land trusts. CLTs are nonprofit, community-based organizations dedicated to ensuring community stewardship of land - and enabling the businesses that make our communities what they are to stay in business. But while immigrant business owners are out strategizing ways to stay afloat, there's something gentefiers can do as well.
It's a Hard Walk to Walk
In 2015, Helados Pops Ice Cream moved into the space directly next to El Abuelo. Owned and run by a young immigrant family, the shop has been a hit with San Fernando residents and the internet (Insider did a video about Pops' infamous coconut shell sundaes, and it garnered five million views on Facebook). New to the block, Pops has been nothing but friendly to its neighbors, including my father. The two businesses scratch each other's backs - my father and stepmother suggest customers try the business next door, and vice versa.
Budding friendships between businesses like El Abuelo and Pops is a great way for establishments, whether gentefying or not, to coexist. Some gentefiers, like Eastside Luv's Uribe, argue that they genuinely wish to make their neighborhood a better place. While I'm sure they say this with sincerity, as the old saying goes: actions speak louder than words.
"If you say you're going to be for the community, then really be for the community," Arellano said. "Don't be getting your meat from some hipster butcher all the way on the other side of Los Angeles."
While this won't entirely solve gentefication, Arellano still urges gentefiers who might feel conflicted or guilty to make an effort, whether that be supporting neighboring businesses or teaming up with them for projects. For my father's newer neighbors, that means spreading the word about my father's amazing food to their customers.
"It's hard, but you know, at least you're putting your money back into the community," Arellano said. "It's a hard walk to walk, but you should try to walk it regardless."
Incredible, Brilliant Women Who Left a Mark on Science
In the current political climate, it's become increasingly clear to women all over the country how important is to make their voices heard. Last year's Women's March, which took place in several cities and countries all over the world on Jan. 21, was only the beginning of what has become a global movement led by women. Whether you're marching in protests in your own town or looking to find inspiration from past groundbreaking women, look no further than these female scientists who had to overcome various struggles and obstacles to achieve their dreams.
We're paying respect to Marie Curie and other women who left their mark on modern life through science. These women prove that physics, wireless technology, and computer programming aren't just traits of a boys' club and that science is the coolest subject of all.
- Additional reporting by Nicole Nguyen and Ann-Marie Alcántara
11 Acceptable Ways to Use the Upside-Down Face Emoji
When the upside-down emoji face came into my life in 2015, I instantly knew it was my go-to sarcastic face. But as I used it more, it became my "I'm secretly mad at you" and even my "I feel awkward" face. The point is, the upside-down face emoji has so many uses - and they're all OK.
According to Emojipedia, the upside-down face emoji is meant to show "silliness or goofiness." It also says it's an "ambiguous emotion," with people using it in a joking or sarcastic manner. Basically, everyone uses it so differently and it's not simply a smiley face turned upside down.
Ahead, see all the ways we break down using this emoji.
The Internet Can't Figure Out How Many Squares Are in This Photo - Can You?
It wasn't all that long ago that the triangle brain teaser threw the internet for a loop, but now we're coming at you with another one - except this time, it's a completely different shape. All that is asked in the instructions for this mind-bending puzzle is that you figure out how many squares there are . . . so, sounds simple enough, right? If only. People weighed in with anywhere from 16 to 32 to 102; the guesses go on, but none of those are actually right. The correct answer is 51! The key is to keep track of the squares you've counted and realize how the little squares can form a bigger square. If you're looking to challenge yourself or stump your friends, show them this square brain teaser and let the guessing (and foot stomping) begin.
Behold: The Exact Moment Millennials Became So Incredibly F*cked Up
Image Source: Unsplash / Kendyle Nelsen
For years - decades, even - the world has struggled to understand millennials. We're glued to our phones, annoying as hell, don't take no for an answer, and, if recent reporting is to be believed, we're basically over. Naturally, that makes it the perfect moment for a revelation to arrive that is so perfect, it makes us all shout "it me!" - and that revelation happens to be an explanation as to why we are such a resoundingly f*cked-up group. Behold:
i pinpointed the exact moment millennial humor became this sort of fucked up weird and vague disturbing humor that is very difficult to understand from the outside looking in. essentially our downward spiral began with this video pic.twitter.com/7ZUBM00f0c
- nick(y) (@backtoyoubfs) November 27, 2017
April 14, 2007. That was the night that Saturday Night Live debuted "Dear Sister," a digital short so inexplicable to our parents that it became instantly clear that there was one hell of a generational divide in our collective senses of humor, and we would never be able to see eye to eye on comedic ground. It wasn't the first digital short that the late-night show produced - nor was it the last - but it was certainly among the most memorable moments in viral video history, spawning a decade of memes and virtually destroying a perfectly decent Imogen Heap song called "Hide and Seek." But let's start at the beginning, and talk about the cultural phenomenon that was The O.C.
The O.C., at heart, is the story of a wealthy philanthropic family's decision to adopt a tough street kid (Ryan) and force him into semi-brotherhood with their geeky-yet-lovable son (Seth) and the duo's subsequent journey toward adulthood, often coupled with two young women of the same age (Marissa and Summer). Drama, sexual tension, a bangin' soundtrack - the show had it all. The New York Times, in its first review of the series, noted that the show "obviously owes a vast debt to Beverly Hills 90210 and to Eminem's wardrobe in the movie 8 Mile," adding, "Teenagers between 12 and 50 will love it." And boy, did we love it. So much so that one of SNL's star comedians, Andy Samberg, could not get the show - and in particular, an Imogen Heap song that played during the show's season two finale - out of his head. It's from this obsession that "Dear Sister" emerged.
"When 'Hide and Seek' aired on The O.C. we all became somewhat obsessed with that song. I remember listening to it on headphones while we were shooting with Jimmy Fallon on the MTV Movie Awards when we were writers before we got SNL. I remember being on a stage at Universal where he was shooting the pre-tapes and Jorma had it on his headphones, and we kept being like, 'God, that song is so cool,'" Samberg told Entertainment Weekly earlier this year. "We couldn't let go of the O.C. thing and that song, because Akiva, Jorma, and I were obsessed with The O.C. [The sketch] was 100 percent because of that the season 2 finale. It's a classic moment, and we love doing digital shorts about movie and TV tropes. The 'Gunshot That Happens Off-Camera, and Then Everything Cranks Into Slo-mo and Someone Realizes They Have Blood on Their Hands When They Look Up' is a move done a bunch of times, and we always really loved it."
In fairness, the scene that Samberg is referencing is one that will live on forever in infamy. I'm not even going to attempt to describe what happens, so spoiler alert, here's the clip itself:
"Dear Sister" hones in on the extreme melodrama of the scene and cranks it to one million. Dave (Bill Hader) is shot by Keith (Andy Samberg) and after Keith returns fire, Dave shoots their friend Eric, played by none other than Shia LaBeouf, and the three alongside Keith's sister (Kristen Wiig) continue to shoot each other over and over, and over - with every single gunshot being marked by the Imogen Heap song starting from the top (over and over, and over and over). The skit ends in equally dramatic fashion after two cops (Jason Sudeikis and Fred Armisen) arrive and find a letter describing exactly what went down ("Dear sister . . . ") and they shoot each other after reading it.
Now that I've typed this whole thing out, I can somewhat see how it is that my parents thought I was nuts for finding it hilarious. But suffice it to say, it was so perfect in every way. It was exactly the coda that The O.C. needed, and it became the inside joke of an entire generation - one that was far, far too hard to explain to the old folks who just didn't get it. For good measure, why don't you watch the skit again and laugh a little bit more? Can you turn it off? No, I didn't think so.
As @backtoyoubfs (who may be a genius, and is certainly now the voice of our generation) pointed out in his tweet on Nov. 26, "Dear Sister" is truly the moment at which it became clear that we we could never really explain the internet and viral videos and our particular brand of teen angst to our parents, and they'd never understand the way that the world had changed. But as Dr. Seuss may or may not have said many years ago, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." So while we may be the most f*cked-up generation the world has ever known, never forget that we're also most definitely the funniest people who have ever lived - even if we're the only ones who understand our jokes.
Oh, Heaven Is Truly a Place on Earth - at Least, According to Katy Perry's Met Gala Look
Heaven must be missing an angel, because Katy Perry just graced the Met Gala red carpet. The American Idol judge had us saying "amen" in a custom Versace chainmail-ensconced minidress featuring the evening's on-trend gold hue. Embracing the "Heavenly Bodies" theme, the singer completed her outfit with gold cross earrings and complementary thigh-high boots.
Oh, wait, are we missing something? No, of course we didn't miss the standout accessory of her look (and possibly the night!): her oversize white feathered wings. Paired with kneeled praying pose on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum in New York City, all that was missing from this ensemble was a halo.
Um, Miley Cyrus's Met Gala Dress Dips So Far in the Front AND Back, We Don't Know Where to Look
Miley Cyrus did not come to mess around at the 2018 Met Gala. She walked the "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" red carpet in a breathtaking Stella McCartney halter gown that showed off skin in the front and in the back, giving a glimpse of her collection of tattoos. Miley paired the sleek dress with strappy black heels, cross earrings, and layered necklaces, including a thin chain that wrapped around her lower back. She's definitely no stranger to baring skin at the ball - in 2015, she turned heads with her punk-inspired Alexander Wang look complete with sexy cutouts.
The World's Sexiest Models Showed Up to the Met Gala and Brought Their Freakin' A Game
If there's one event that can bring a seriously insane A-list group together, it's none other than the Met Gala. The fashion occasion is a unique opportunity that gathers the likes of movie stars, fashion designers, supermodels, and more. This year's theme, "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," did not disappoint when it came to dramatic looks and jaw-dropping silhouettes.
While so many celebs stood out, it was the world's hottest models who made us look twice. From Bella and Gigi Hadid to Kendall Jenner, and even the legend herself, Cindy Crawford, we can't decide who's our favorite. Ahead, check out their standout ensembles, and if you can, decide which one you love the most.
Warning: The Met Gala's Sexiest Dresses Will Give You Whiplash
Fashion's biggest night has left us speechless yet again. While this year's Met Gala theme, "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," was a controversial one, it didn't stop celebrities from showing off a little skin. For example, Emily Ratajowski wore a gold Marc Jacobs dress that featured so many cutouts, we lost track, and Zoë Kravitz's Saint Laurent dress was basically being held together by just two bows - but that's not all. From Kim Kardashian's body-hugging Versace dress to Jennifer Lopez's thigh-high slit, celebrities didn't shy away from sexy ensembles. Keep reading to see some of the sexiest dresses of the night.
Nicki Minaj Was the Best Kind of Sinner Among Saints at the Met Gala, and Her Outfit Proves It
Nicki Minaj showed up at the Met Gala on Monday night and quickly proved that being bad is sometimes a good thing. In fact, her all-red ensemble showed the devilish side of the singer, and it was perfect for the night's theme, "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination." While many stars decided to channel angels and saints, Nicki went straight for the devil, and we're so thankful.
In fact, when she hit the red carpet in her glamorous Oscar de la Renta down - complete with Tiffany & Co. jewelry and one beautiful train - she told reporters that she did it because "I'm the bad guy, and I wanted to make sure the bad guy was here." The quote was a reference to her new song, "Chun-Li," and it's not the only reason she chose this stunning red hue. Nicki also chose the designer because she wanted to give a nod to her hometown of New York City. And to top it all off, she rocked killer heels and a stunning headpiece, which featured red crosses on it. The "bad guy" was there, and she shut it down.
A Quick Look at Mary-Kate's and Ashley's Met Gala Dresses and You'll Go, "Yep, That's Right"
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are Met Gala staples, wearing some of the most memorable gowns of the night through the years - and in 2018, they didn't disappoint. The designers, creators of The Row and Elizabeth and James, came to conquer the red carpet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute Gala in their own designs.
As they stepped out for the biggest night in fashion on Monday, May 7, the Olsen sisters made a somewhat subtle nod to the night's theme of "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" with their color choices and statement jewelry. Mary-Kate and Ashley wore pieces from The Row - they also dressed Lady Bird director Greta Gerwig - and we're still in awe of their boho looks.
Mary-Kate chose a simple long black gown, keeping all eyes on the big statement piece she wore around her neck: a large necklace resembling a piece of armor à la Joan of Arc. Ashley, on the other hand, opted for color - and lots of it - wearing a patchwork silk gown with an equally stunning rosary necklace, tying back to the religious theme. Her look was topped off with a jeweled headband that we definitely wish we could get our hands on ASAP.
More Than 30 Lush, Chocolaty Desserts For Busy People
Just because you're busy doesn't eliminate the want need to indulge in something sweet and chocolaty when a craving hits. If time is truly of the essence, pick up a chocolate bar at the store; when you have a bit more wiggle room, you can do no better than these 30-plus easy, chocolate-rich recipes. Keep reading for a solid selection of brownie, cookie, hot chocolate, pudding, and other cacao-loaded treats that even the busiest or most beginner of bakers can tackle without breaking a sweat.
Barefoot Wine Officially Has Spritzers in a Can, and OMG, Gimme the Red Sangria!
As soon as the sun starts peeking out from behind the clouds, the wheels in our heads immediately start turning to figure out how we're going to make the most of the Summer months ahead. And one of the best parts about warm weather? Everything tends to be way more low-key, especially when it comes to soirées. Enter Barefoot Wine & Bubbly's newest line of spritzers that conveniently come in a dainty can and will become your new go-to Summer drink.
What can wine-lovers expect? The light, refreshing drinks offer a heavenly mix of sweet and fizzy. And say what you want about canned wine, but there are tons of perks to going the aluminum route, especially in the Summer. After all, you're not normally allowed to bring glass anywhere close to a pool - so these eight-ounce containers are the perfect solution.
Now, let's get down to business and discuss the flavors, because there are more than enough to pick from. First, there's a Red Sangria that has notes of nearly every citrus fruit, along with a little pineapple. There's also a Rosé - hello, old friend! - that has peachy undertones, and a Moscato if you really want to go full-on sweet.
Guys and gals who are more into white wine will love the combination of Chenin Blanc and Riesling that come together in the cans of Crisp White, and finally, there's a Summer Red that combines several of your favorites - like Moscato, Zinfandel, and Pinot Noir - into a supersmooth sip. You can snag a four-pack of each flavor at stores nationwide for $8 starting on May 1.
lundi 7 mai 2018
15 Classy Bites to Pass Around at a Wedding Cocktail Hour
The best part of any wedding is the cocktail hour. It's after the ceremony but before the dinner, so it's the first time that all the guests mingle. Plus, the drinks are flowing and there are plenty of delicious hors d'oeuvres to nibble on. If you're planning your wedding and looking for inspiration when it comes to the appetizer hour, we've got you covered. Here are 15 of our favorite finger foods.
10 Pieces From the Ayesha Curry Home Collection That Need to Be in Your Kitchen Right Now
Ayesha Curry is a woman of many talents and roles, from beauty ambassador to mother of two (and counting) with NBA superstar husband Stephen Curry. She also has quite a name for herself in the culinary and home goods world. The cookbook author has a stunning kitchen line that lets people bring her fun and fearless approach to cuisine home. Each piece is stunning, perfect for bringing to the dining table as well as being used to cook up an amazing dinner. Here are 10 of Ayesha Curry's home collection pieces that your kitchen can't live without.
Here's How to Convert Slow-Cooker Recipes to Your Instant Pot
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
The Instant Pot and the slow cooker may look alike, but they function a lot differently. The name of each appliance says it all - slow-cooked food takes hours, while the Instant Pot knocks it out quickly. So when you're converting a slow-cooker recipe to an Instant Pot, there are a few things to consider. Keep these conversions in mind the next time you whip out your Instant Pot for a quick and easy dinner.
1. Lower the Meat-Cooking Time
One of the best things about the Instant Pot is its ability to cook meat insanely fast - even when frozen. If you're converting meat from a slow cooker to an Instant Pot, follow this rule: if the meat dish cooks in eight hours on low or four hours on high in the slow cooker, it will cook in 25-30 minutes in the Instant Pot. Make sure the Instant Pot setting reads "sealing" and not "venting" to ensure it's cooked properly. The "meat/stew" button is great for red meat recipes like bolognese, and the "poultry" button can be used for chicken dishes like garlic chicken soup. If you're cooking meat from frozen in an Instant Pot, just add five or 10 more minutes to the total cook time until it's done.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry
2. Add More Liquid
Instant Pots need more liquid to function properly, so if your recipe doesn't already call for at least a cup of liquid (such as broth or water), add it.
3. Skip Certain Ingredients
A pressure cooker or Instant Pot won't handle certain ingredients the same way a slow cooker would. If you're making an Instant Pot meal with milk or dairy, don't add it in the beginning. It can be stirred in or simmered at the end, but it won't cook successfully under pressure. If you're using a thickener, such as a cornstarch slurry, whisk it in at the end as well.
If you have even more specific questions about your recipe, follow this complete guide to converting slow-cooker recipes to an Instant Pot.
Your Favorite Luggage Brand Carries More Than Just Suitcases - and We Need It All!
Traveling can be stressful as it is, so make sure you find the perfect accessories to make your trip a breeze. If you're familiar with Away luggage, you know its reliable and sleek suitcases are a total dream. You might not know that the brand has been dropping a handful of other useful items we think will make your experience even more seamless. From a stylish backpack to the perfect weekender bag, we rounded up a list of products you need to see and try. Keep scrolling to check out the classics and hot new items alike.
17 Wildly Awesome Travel Adventures to Have Around the World This Summer
Are you looking for a YOLO-worthy adventure? It's time to stop procrastinating and start living your life! This Summer, try out one of these incredible activities that travelers have experienced all over the world. You'll feel so fulfilled, and let's be honest - you'll get an awesome picture out of it. Check out these dreamy locations.
The Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2018
If there's one resolution you actually commit to in 2018, let it be travel. It may not be your typical fitness or organization-oriented goal, but it can make you richer in terms of self-growth, new experiences, and even personal happiness. And all of that is far more valuable than any annual goal you usually make.
With endless sources of travel inspiration available, figuring out where to go next is the toughest part. But we've eliminated all the hard work for you, so that all that's left for you to do is choose. From rising hot spots to destinations you never knew existed, these are the top 10 places to travel to in 2018.
Where will you go?
1. Boracay, PhilippinesThis small island in the central Philippines only spans four and a half miles long, but you'll find that to be plenty when you see all the natural beauty Boracay has to offer. Navigate the mini paradise via bike and spend your stay sunbathing on White Beach, collecting puka shells on Yapak, or sipping on cocktails while the sun goes down and fire dancers come out.
2. Ljubljana, Slovenia Reminiscent of Amsterdam's famous canals while blending Mediterranean, German, and Slovenian culture, Ljubljana is a beautiful combination of old and new. The Ljubljanica River divides the capital's Old Town from its commercial Center district, marked by the city's most iconic landmark, the Triple Bridge. You'll find it difficult to not fall in love, as Ljubljana boasts as much charm and wonderful architecture as it does museums, outdoor cafes, green landscapes, and rich history. 3. Ninh Binh, VietnamWhile most travelers flock to Hanoi, Vietnam's majestic rural side in the Red River Delta is sometimes overlooked. However, as more people begin to recognize Ninh Binh's serene landscapes as a reason to add it to their itineraries, it's only a matter of time until the northern area becomes the next popular place to be. With its limestone cliffs, temples, lush green valleys, and hiking trails and caves, this province easily takes a top spot.
4. Sucre, BoliviaBolivia's capital is known for its whitewashed buildings and colonial architecture, but there's also plenty more to do and see. The historic city of Sucre offers a number of museums, cathedrals, and landmarks, including its main square, Plaza 25 de Mayo, and Casa de la Libertad - and it's also home to one of the largest sets of dinosaur footprints in the world.5. Seoul, South Korea Seoul is where pop culture, technology, and tradition blend. You'll see both fashion-forward streetwear and traditional hanboks, skyscrapers and Buddhist temples, street markets and made-for-Instagram cafes. Its high-tech subways also allow easy access to neighboring cities in case you want to explore past South Korea's capital. Spend your mornings palace hopping and tea sipping at Insadong, and then see the city come to life from the N Seoul Tower. You'll never find yourself short of things to do.6. Essaouira, MoroccoTravelers who prefer the slow pace of a coastal town over a bustling and dense city will be entranced by Essaouira. Known as a port and resort center, Africa's windy city is as popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing as it is for pure relaxation. Walk along its beaches and through the vibrant medina, browse the boutiques, check out the catch of the day at the fish port, and more. And if you're looking for a little more hustle, Marrakech is only a bus ride away.
7. Zadar, Croatia Consider taking a holiday along Croatia's Dalmatian coast where you're more likely to find less crowds than at Dubrovnik and Split. The seaside city is rich with culture, history, and romance; equally known for its Roman and Venetian ruins and stunning sunsets. Once you get your fill of landmarks, churches, and cathedrals, head east of Old Town over to Kolovare Beach for bars and restaurants or offshore at Kornati National Park for diving and snorkeling. You can't leave Zadar without marveling at the musical Sea Organ, either.8. Upolu, SamoaThis paradisal island in Samoa is home to everything you want: lush rainforest, lagoons, dramatic waterfalls, idyllic beaches, the international airport, and much, much more. Dive into the Instagram-famous To Sua Ocean Trench, surf and fish along the coast year-round, or indulge at restaurants and bars in Samoa's capital city, Apia, before heading back to Upolu's sleepier parts.
9. Tbilisi, Georgia Georgia's capital is far from ordinary. Visitors are able to witness the modernization of Tbilisi since its time under Persian and Russian rule, as well as older reminders scattered throughout its diverse architecture. Not too far from the plazas, five-star hotels, bars and clubs, and museums remain small shops and quaint living. At Old Town, you'll find ancient cobblestoned roads, and winding lanes, while the rest of the city is gradually coming into its own, neither distinctly Western or Eastern. Travelers will find themselves captivated by this eclectic and multi-ethnic and multicultural destination that's truly unlike any other.10. Mallorca, Spain The Mediterranean's shining gem is loved by many for good reason. The island's breathtaking coasts, aqua-blue waters, and postcard coves are just a few appeals. Mallorca (Majorca) did inspire Chopin and other musicians, artists, and writers, after all. Maybe it'll be the picturesque villages, the cuisine, the architecture, the mountainous landscape, the beaches, or the nightlife that seduces you. Whatever it is, prepare to extend your stay.
33 Things That Make Disneyland Better Than Disney World
Disclaimer: this is my personal opinion, and as a California native who has been to Disneyland countless times (far more than Disney World), I fully recognize my bias. That said, Disneyland is actually the best and way better than Disney World. Here's why.
2 Recipes From Joanna Gaines's New Cookbook That You Simply Have to Try For Yourself
Anyone who's ever watched HGTV's Fixer Upper will immediately recognize Joanna Gaines's style in her new cookbook, Magnolia Table. It looks like the homes she designed on the show: clean lines, a lot of white space, bright pages and photography, and a general black-and-white aesthetic.
And it's perfect timing for this book too! Fans who were sad to hear there won't be new episodes on HGTV anytime soon, since the finale aired in April, can bring a dose of the Gaines family into their kitchens.
Magnolia Table is filled with family stories and memories surrounding meals; individual favorites (for Chip, it's anything breakfast); diverse recipes that celebrate Joanna's diverse background: Texan (queso dip, fried chicken, Gaines chili . . .), Korean (her mom's bulgogi - find the recipe below), and Lebanese (her grandfather's recipe for Syrian doughnuts and fatayer); and some recipes that are used in their restaurant by the same name in Waco, TX, like her specialty biscuits and chocolate chip cookies (see below for the original recipe).
In the introduction, Joanna shares her own food journey, from the first meal she made for Chip in their first home (a spaghetti-and-meatballs dish with bread and butter that didn't go so well) to how she began to explore recipes from his family, like the Gaines's chili, and sharing recipes from her family with him, like the "Stevens family breakfast tradition: toasted peanut butter and jelly sandwiches dipped in black coffee" . . . which sounds delicious. Everything she describes sounds delicious. When she's writing about food and recipes, it's like she's staging them for readers in a way, just like she staged homes at the end of each episode of Fixer Upper for the full effect.
Fast-forward to when Chip and Joanna had four children under four who they had to feed and she turned to casseroles, slow-cookers, and "big pots of hearty soup that could simmer for a while." These types of meals are still her go-tos when she's having a busy week.
As her kids grew, they began to voice what they liked, and so meals became more elaborate. The kitchen counter and dining table are a focal point of their home. Joanna tries to tailor meals every week based both on the family's schedule and what's growing in their garden.
Even after Fixer Upper exploded, their family gained international fame, and their businesses continued to expand, she still prioritized time to cook meals from scratch in the evenings. In fact, that's how she de-stresses. "I stick my hand in a bowl of flour to begin to make pie crust, or peel some potatoes, and all of a sudden my thoughts slow down. I begin to unwind," she writes.
Cooking isn't a chore to her, and she suggests that a change in perspective can make it something we all look forward to.
She divides her cookbook into several simple and useful sections. She begins with what she usually has in her pantry and the essential tools for cooking, from measuring utensils to biscuit cutters, spatulas to a large cast-iron skillet. Then she has her recipes divided by meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers and starters, and dessert, along with two special sections dedicated to soups and salads and side dishes.
"I've learned to approach planning dinner the same way I plan interiors," she writes. She always thinks about layers and textures. First, she'll choose a main dish, and then the sides that would complement it. And always, always dessert, like her favorite lemon pie recipe!
Try out Joanna's original recipes from Magnolia Table ahead.
Mom's Bulgogi With Cucumber Kimchi Salad
"My mom grew up in Seoul, South Korea, with a mom who was an amazing cook. I can personally vouch for this because in the 1980s my grandmother and uncle moved in with us in our home in Wichita, Kansas, where I grew up. What I remember most about that time is my grandmother cooking amazing food nonstop. When my grandmother passed away I know my mom regretted never having really learned from her how to cook proper Korean dishes. She ended up adopting a much more American style of cooking and by the time my sisters and I were on the scene, she had long since perfected a few dishes for my steak-and-potato-loving dad. But around that same time she had a lot of Korean friends living nearby, and she learned enough from them that by the time my kids were born, she was often preparing traditional Korean dishes for them, like seaweed soup.
It's funny to me that they're growing up eating much more authentic Korean food than I ever did. Mom's bulgogi, though, is more of an American-Korean hybrid, much sweeter than traditional bulgogi, and she serves it on a bed of white rice. Mom has us over once a month and this is what she always makes. It's my kids' very favorite food in the world, so I knew I had to include it in this book. Getting the recipe on paper was a bit of a challenge. My mom had no idea what the measurements were or how to describe what she does, because, as she said, she just does it. (Writing this book made me realize just how alike we are in this way.) But eventually, we figured it out, and I'm so glad we did because now I've captured the blueprint to what will always be a beloved meal for my kids.
We've never had Mom's bulgogi with anything other than her cucumber kimchi salad, which has a clean, fresh flavor that perfectly complements the sweet barbecued beef."
Prep: 20 minutes, plus 4 to 5 hours marinating
Cook: 10 to 20 minutes
Cool: none
Servings: Makes 6 to 8 servings
Bulgogi Ingredients
3 cups packed light brown sugar
1½ cups soy sauce
5 tablespoons sparkling dessert wine, such as Banfi Rosa Regale, or sparkling grape juice
3 tablespoons sesame oil
2 green onions (light and dark green parts), chopped, plus 1/4 cup sliced for serving
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 to 5 pounds beef tenderloin, rib-eye, top sirloin, or sirloin steak, thinly sliced (see Note)
Cucumber Kimchi Salad Ingredients
2 English cucumbers, peeled if desired, cut into 1/2-inch dice
2 green onions (light and dark green parts), thinly sliced on the diagonal
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 to 2 teaspoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes; see Tip)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
For Serving
Steamed white rice
1 to 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion (light and dark green parts) as needed, for garnish
3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted, for garnish
- Marinate the bulgogi: In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, wine, sesame oil, green onions, garlic, and pepper until well combined. Add the beef and coat it completely in marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 5 hours.
- To make the cucumber kimchi salad: In a medium bowl, combine the cucumbers, green onions, garlic, gochugaru, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, and salt to taste and stir gently. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare a hot grill. If the pieces of beef are so small that they may fall through the grates, use a grilling skillet or place a sheet of foil on the grill.
- Grill the beef on both sides until medium-well, 3 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. Don't crowd the skillet or foil, so do this in batches if necessary. As you finish each batch, transfer it to a serving platter and continue with the remaining beef.
- Serve the bulgogi on top of steamed rice. Garnish with green onion and toasted sesame seeds and spoon the cucumber kimchi salad alongside.
- Store the leftover bulgogi and cucumber kimchi salad in separate covered containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
NOTE: My mom usually has the butcher slice the beef for this dish when she buys it. If you live near a Korean market, they often sell packages of sliced rib-eye or top sirloin; sometimes they're even marked specifically for bulgogi. If you buy big pieces to cut yourself, freeze the meat for about 30 minutes before cutting so that it's easier to slice thinly and cut against the grain.
TIP: Gochugaru, or Korean red pepper, is commonly used in kimchi. It adds precisely the right amount of heat and unique flavor to the cucumber salad. Authentic Korean brands are readily available at Asian grocery stores or online, and the McCormick spice company packages it as well.
From Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines. Copyright © 2018 by Joanna Gaines. Reprinted by permission of William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
"My dad has an intense sweet tooth, just like me. One afternoon when I was around ten years old, Dad got a hankering and he enlisted me to help him make Toll House chocolate chip cookies. That was the first time he and I had ever baked together. Since then, whenever I make chocolate chip cookies, including the ones from this recipe, I think of him and that special afternoon we spent together in the kitchen. I developed this recipe over the years, after experimenting with a few classics and having them come out flat every time. I wanted something that was chunky, beautiful, and also delicious. In the end, one big change I made was to cut back on the butter. I do truly believe that butter makes everything better and no one is more surprised than I am about how amazing these taste even though they're made with less of the good stuff than most traditional chocolate chip cookies."
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: Under 30 minutes
Cool: 1 hour
Servings: Makes about 40 cookies
Ingredients
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 heaping teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon sea salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 cups packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips (see Tip)
- Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or in a large bowl with a handheld electric mixer), beat the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the eggs and beat until blended. Add the vanilla and beat until blended.
- Turn the mixer off and add the flour mixture to the bowl. Mix on medium just until the flour is mixed in, then turn the mixer to high speed for a few seconds to pull the dough together; it will be chunky.
- Add the chocolate chips and beat on high for about 5 seconds to thoroughly and quickly mix in the chips.
- Drop by large spoonfuls on the lined baking sheet; don't flatten them. Bake until lightly browned on top, 10 to 11 minutes. Cool on the pan on a rack for 1 minute, then transfer the cookies to the rack to cool completely. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Store the cookies in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to three days.
TIP: Depending on what you're in the mood for, you can add ½ cup more or less chocolate than what is called for.
From Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines. Copyright © 2018 by Joanna Gaines. Reprinted by permission of William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. All images (c) Amy Neunsinger.
20 Signs Your Emotional Type Is "the Rock"
Some people wear their heart on their sleeve, whereas others struggle with the ability to express their feelings. If you're the latter, your emotional type can be identified as "the rock." Among the four different types (the intellectual, the empath, the rock, and the gusher), someone who most relates to the rock is usually the strong one of the group, as the name implies. They're emotionally supportive of others but aren't comfortable with opening up themselves.
There are some qualities that make being this type problematic at times. For example, if you're unable to share how you really feel, you bottle up many of those emotions, including the negative ones like frustration and anger. In addition, because rocks tend to be passive, their relationships with others don't often go beyond the surface and they aren't as in tune with their emotions.
Despite these downfalls, there are benefits to being a rock. You're considered a great friend because you're loyal and nonjudgmental. People feel comfortable coming to you about their issues and you tend to get along with almost everyone. You rarely have conflicts with others because you're far from being confrontational. Check out the signs below to see if you're a rock, and then take this quiz to confirm.
- You get defensive when people try to ask you about your feelings.
- You're a good listener.
- You're the calm one in an emergency situation.
- You're respectful.
- You're the go-to person for venting.
- You'd rather avoid conflict than address it.
- You don't have many enemies.
- Not many people have seen you cry.
- People consider you very dependable.
- Your friends have tried to get emotions out of you.
- You often keep your guard up.
- It takes a long time for you to open up to people.
- It scares you to get very close to someone.
- Your emotions rarely spike and you're almost always stable.
- Expressing your emotions has been an issue in relationships.
- Some people make the mistake of thinking you don't care.
- Not many things make you visibly upset.
- You're not a judgmental person.
- You are sometimes perceived as cold (even if you're not).
- When others get upset, you're there to support them.
6 Steps to Take to Wind Down For a Good Night's Sleep
There's a lot of advice on how to create a good bedtime routine for a baby, but not so much for adults. We can take a few tips from the classic "bath, book, bed" regime that's often rolled out for infants, though. For a while I had difficulty falling asleep, and then struggled to sleep well through the night, so I made a few changes to the period before bedtime, and they made all the difference.
1. Screens Off
One of the hardest changes I made was limiting my screen time late at night, but the evidence was undeniable - on the nights when I worked on my computer right up to bedtime, it took me ages to settle down to sleep. The scientific reason to make this change is that blue light from your devices can disrupt circadian and melatonin rhythms, which basically means your body thinks it's daytime. A lot of guidelines recommend turning off screens one hour before bed, but if you can't manage that, try to turn off your electronics at least 20 minutes before your head hits the pillow. There are plenty of other things you can do in that time; here are a few that work for me.
2. Bath
I've always enjoyed the relaxing effects of a hot bath, but I tended to have one earlier in the evening. When I moved bath time closer to bedtime, I found it helped me to fall asleep. You could add essential oils that are said to have sleep-inducing properties, like lavender. If you're not a bath fan, try a shower instead. When you come out of warm water into a cooler bedroom, the drop in your body temperature sends signals to your body that it's time to rest. You also have the benefit of being clean, and we all know how uncomfortable (not to mention unhygienic) it is to sleep with makeup on.
3. Book
. . . or music or a podcast. Basically, if you still need something to help you wind down once you're under the sheets, you can try anything that doesn't involve a screen. I favor a book, and one that's not too exciting (nor too heavy), as I often fall asleep while reading.
4. Notes
In that quiet time before sleep, my brain often fills with reminders. When I used to keep my phone in my bedroom, I would use that to make notes. That's a big no-no. Not only did that then suck me into a drawn-out spiral of checking emails and social media, but it also meant I was engaging in screen time at entirely the wrong time. Now I keep a pen and notepad by the bed so I can scribble down reminders the old-fashioned way. That's one of the 12 steps I took to kick my phone habit.
5. Stretch
It's often only when I stretch out in bed that I realize how achy my body feels. I've been cramped up at a desk for most of the day, and I'm not at all good about taking regular stretch breaks during daylight hours. So I make up for it a bit at bedtime by really stretching out my legs and shoulders, in particular. Since doing this, I've woken less in the night with aches and pains. There are even yoga moves you can do in bed if, like me, you don't make time to do them during the day.
6. Breathe
Finally, when I'm still trying to nod off, I try breathing meditation. If your mind wanders, try some techniques to maintain focus, like visualizing your thoughts floating past like clouds, or focusing on the subtle sensation of breath at the tip of the nostrils, or bringing your attention to each part of your body in turn. There's also a 4-7-8 breathing technique, which can help with anxiety, too.
Don't Know What Wine to Drink? Tap Into Your Zodiac For the Answer
The wine list comes to your table and you have to pick your poison. However, you're not sure what kind of drinking mood you're in, what kind of flavors you want, or even what wine is good. You break into a sweat because everyone else seems to know what they want but you - you're left pouring over the menu again and again, totally clueless and holding up everyone else's orders.
It may not seem logical, but tapping into your zodiac sign may help avoid a scenario like this in the future. Zodiac rules a certain amount of our qualities and traits, and can definitely help you out in the wine department if you let it.
So, which wine should be your go-to based on your zodiac sign? Not only did we find out, but we can tell you why, too.
The Completely Addictive Method of Grilling Steak
The reverse sear method for cooking steak is arguably one of the best indoor techniques, and a similar concept can be applied when grilling steak outdoors on a charcoal grill. Instead of slow-cooking in the oven, the steak is first smoked (positioned away from the charcoal), and instead of searing on a skillet, the steak is finished directly over the charcoal for just a few minutes on each side. You're left with perfectly juicy steak and a crisp exterior, no burnt bits or accidental overcooking. You can do this, grill master, you.
Here's what you'll need:
- A charcoal grill
- Hardwood lump charcoal
- Gelled alcohol
- Stick lighter
- Barbecue tongs
- Mesquite wood chunks (or any other type)
- 2 (12-ounce) strip steaks (at least 1-inch thick)
- Ghee or clarified butter
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground pepper
5 Harry Potter-Inspired Starbucks Mugs For When You'd Rather Be Drinking Butterbeer
Looking for a travel mug to store your Felix Felicis? These Harry Potter-themed tumblers definitely caught my eye, especially with their added Starbucks inspiration. If you were grabbing a drink to-go from the Three Broomsticks, I'd hope they'd look a little like this. Plus, each mug comes with a protective lid, so you can avoid any pumpkin juice spillage in (and out) of the Great Hall. These tumblers are sure to add a magical touch to any morning commute, even if it isn't by broomstick.
Whether your guilty pleasure is Butterbeer, you're experimenting with Polyjuice Potion, or you're sticking with your regular a.m. latte, keep reading to see more of these mystical mugs and be sure to check out our other affordable Harry Potter gifts.
30 Breakfasts, Lunches, and Dinners You Can Meal Prep
Beyond a great meal hack, meal prepping - aka assembling ready-made meals in Tupperware, mason jars, or resealable bags - results in eating home-cooked meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, minus the laborious process each day. Get all those meals prepped on a Sunday, reheat them as needed, and feed yourself (or your family) all week long.
- Additional reporting by Emilia Benton, Erin Cullum, and Alicia Lu
6 Signs Your Bottle of Wine's Gone Bad
Not all wine is ideal for storing. If it's been in contact with air for too long or has a tainted cork, the liquid inside has turned and should not be consumed. Here are a handful of telltale signs that might indicate a good wine has gone bad.
- The smell is off. If a wine's aroma is moldy or resembles a musty basement, wet cardboard, or vinegar, it's turned. A heavy raisin smell is another bad signal.
- The red wine tastes sweet. If the bottle of red wine has the aroma of Port or tastes like dessert wine (even though it is neither of those two things), it has been overexposed to heat, and is therefore undrinkable.
- The cork is pushed out slightly from the bottle. That's a sign the wine has overheated and expanded within the bottle.
- The wine is a brownish color. A brown hue in red wine demonstrates that the liquid is past its prime. White wines that have darkened to a deep yellow or brownish straw color are usually oxidized.
- You detect astringent or chemically flavors. Wine that lacks fruit, is raspy, too astringent, or has a paint-thinner taste is usually bad.
- It tastes fizzy, but it's not a sparkling wine. A still wine that is fizzy or effervescent has undergone a second fermentation after the bottling and shouldn't be enjoyed.
One last word of advice: Always smell and examine the actual liquid. Although the term "corked" commonly refers to tainted wine, inspecting the cork alone will not determine if the wine has gone bad. Use your other senses. Have you ever had an undrinkable bottle of wine? How did you know it was questionable?
29 Summer Recipes That Make Feeding a Crowd a Breeze
Feeding a crowd during Summer, whether it's a big family or a group of dinner-party guests, can be hassle-free if you have the right recipes. To help you out, we've rounded up more than 20 summertime meals that can easily be made in big batches (think easy grilling recipes, casseroles, and caprese salads) that are designed to feed and please a crowd.
40+ Make-Ahead Appetizers, the Secret Weapon of Smart Hosts Everywhere
With many moving pieces to manage, planning and hosting a cocktail party can frazzle even a seasoned host. But, it doesn't have to be that way - at least, it doesn't have to be as stressful as you might imagine. The smart host's secret is to do as much of the party prep as you can in the days prior to your party. That means choosing a pitcher-friendly punch recipe over cocktails, stocking up on beer and wine in the days leading up to the party, and relying mostly on make-ahead appetizers, like the 40+ options that we've rounded up.
The Craziest Way to Cook Bacon So It's Simultaneously Crispy and Chewy
Bacon is traditionally cooked in an oven, over the stovetop, or in a microwave, but what happens when you air-fry it? Air-what, you may be thinking? Air-frying is exactly as the name sounds. An appliance about the size of a slow cooker contains a drawer with a metal mesh bottom for the food. The appliance blows hot, dry air on food to fry it with little to no oil. This trend took 2016 by storm thanks to celebrity endorsements from Gordon Ramsay, Paula Deen, and Oprah Winfrey, so what's the dang fuss all about? I busted out a Philips Digital Airfryer ($250) and a package of bacon to find out.
Having no clue how to air-fry, I watched a YouTube video on how to air-fry bacon and followed these instructions. However, I ended up with steamed bacon once the cook time was complete. It resembled deli ham more than bacon, and the fat from the bacon turned translucent and gelatinous. Perhaps this is the preferred method to cook bacon in Europe, but for me, I like my bacon crispy. So I cranked up the heat and kept cooking, shaking the basket occasionally and tripling the cook time, until I ended up with perfectly caramelized strips. I'm talking evenly cooked with no burn spots. Bacon never looked better.
But looks can be deceiving; the taste test would reveal the bacon's true tastiness or not. Remarkably, the bacon had a thin, crisp exterior that yielded to a fatty, chewy interior. I've never had bacon quite like this. The bacon also retained its size prior to cooking and did not shrink at all. The cleanup was a breeze too. I poured the extra bacon grease into a dish for later (it too was pure fat with no black char bits that you find when cooking bacon in an oven or on a stovetop) and proceeded to scrub down the drawer, which proved to be an easy feat.
Feeling confident about my air-frying skills, I proceeded to attempt apple chips and failed horribly. I mean, the apple chips burned and stuck into every crevice of the grid bottom. It was a nightmare to clean up with no reward of apple chips at the end. I know there's a learning curve to a new cooking device, so I'll try again. I'm dying to learn how to make french fries and fried chicken. Those will be my next attempts!
15 Classy Bites to Pass Around at a Wedding Cocktail Hour
The best part of any wedding is the cocktail hour. It's after the ceremony but before the dinner, so it's the first time that all the guests mingle. Plus, the drinks are flowing and there are plenty of delicious hors d'oeuvres to nibble on. If you're planning your wedding and looking for inspiration when it comes to the appetizer hour, we've got you covered. Here are 15 of our favorite finger foods.
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