Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mercredi 16 mai 2018
40 Things You've Been Doing Wrong All Your Life
You were probably happily chugging along in your daily routine until you came across this slideshow. You'll soon realize after reading through that there are many things you've been doing wrong without knowing. Get ready to have your world turned upside down.
What I Learned About Swedish Death Cleaning After Experiencing My Own Loss
As I stood atop a makeshift ladder, an old door atop two sawhorses, with a mask over my face, pulling down pieces of wood that were covered in dust that may have been there from the 1920s Dust Bowl, I found myself resenting my grandparents and their parents for holding onto all this junk. I then promptly felt guilt and shame for thinking such a thing while also knowing the resentment was, and is, in many ways misplaced grief. Indeed the emotions are as layered as the dust that was raining down on my head from the eaves of the garage of my grandparents' house in southwest Kansas.
Along with my mother and aunt, we are döstädning - death cleaning, in Swedish.
It's the latest idea and trend in organization, coming from Margareta Magnusson's The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Make Your Loved Ones' Lives Easier and Your Own Life More Pleasant. The principle is that people who are aging should begin to clean their homes and rid them of unwanted items in the hopes that when they pass away, their families will be spared the task. It follows neatly in many ways after the organizing trend started a few years ago with Marie Kondo's book The Life-Changing Art of Tidying Up.
And it's an activity I'd never thought about doing, much less considered giving it a name, until my father passed away unexpectedly not so long ago.
At the time that he died, I wanted to hold onto every single scrap of anything about him - if I could've bottled the air he'd breathed, I would have done it. Every letter or note or even text message, I was sure I needed to hang onto forever and always. As if holding on tight enough would mean he wasn't gone from my life. I couldn't fathom getting rid of anything of his. And he may have had the same idea. His father also died relatively young and our house has boxes of ephemera from a generation past; my dad had never been able to go through and get rid of the condolence cards sent after his own father died. Both of us had fathers who died unexpectedly when we were in our early 30s. With my mother still alive, there was no reason to cull my dad's things, and with the shock of it, we just didn't really do anything.
Then her father, my grandfather, died, and his house was left empty and needed to be cleaned out. That more pressing need has seemed to spur on my mom to look again at the collections of things her husband, my father, left behind. So we mobilized and are currently tackling the unenviable task of "death cleaning" in two places at once. And what seemed impossible slowly became possible - and even helpful. Here are some things I have learned, and am still trying to learn, about the process.
It's ridiculously hard emotionally.
"Many adult children do not want to talk about death with their parents." This. Most definitely this. I highlighted this quote in Magnusson's book, and it's so achingly true. It's not something your brain wants to process, so it's much easier to pretend it won't ever happen.
I don't want to envision going through my mother's stuff, and facing down the one thing that we'll all come to - death - is remarkably difficult. But if you bring it up when you can or think about it for yourself and your own belongings, you get a chance to think about what's actually important and where you'd like treasured heirlooms to go. "Send that rug to Aunt Dottie, she's always loved it," and "It's OK to get rid of that lamp," etc.
I'm working to cherish the memory of loved ones without clinging tight to all of the stuff left behind.
I didn't and don't want to go through any of this stuff, literally and figuratively. It's unfathomable still that my dad and grandpa won't be coming back into the house, and surely they'd be asking where their shoes, hats, and books were if they did.
But wishful thinking does nothing, and I'm working to cherish the memory of loved ones without clinging tight to all of the stuff left behind. And it's also OK to hang onto some special things as memory touch points.
I also had a share of irritation with the sheer volume of stuff and decisions to make, and then felt/feel guilt about that irritation. I know that the burden left behind wasn't an intentional one, but it's OK to feel tired and stressed with it all. Be prepared to be overwhelmed and uncertain.
Having gone through and done our best to organize the two-car garage, filled with old wood scraps, tools, buckets, and odds and ends from the past hundred years, my mother, aunt, and I were pretty much immobilized in physical and mental exhaustion, and it wasn't long after sunset that we packed it in for bed. And that was just for the garage, where nothing had much sentimental value to it.
Many items are likely to spark memories and laughs and tears, some all at the same time.
And what I may have seen as ready for the thrift store or dumpster, others may not and vice versa. A tattered shirt or blanket may bring back all kinds of memories for someone else, and prying it from their hands because you think it's trash isn't going to help anyone.
The weight of making decisions on item after item will wear you out. That's a large part of why Magnusson advocates for doing such cleaning not only before you pass (if you can), but to do it a room at a time, and slowly.
Stories. Ask for and find out stories.
The ideal way to go through the stuff and things of someone's life is to do it with them or with those who know the stories. Before my grandmother passed away, she made notes on many of the handmade quilts that she had in her house, and those notes and stories make the quilts so much more meaningful.
But then there's things like the 18-inch-braid of brown hair in a trunk in my grandparents' basement. Whose was it? Why it was saved? Questions that no one has any answers for. We put it back in the trunk, shut the lid, and left that conundrum for another day.
Which brings me to the next thing.
Be ready to let go.
Think of what's in your own attic, basement, garage, storage unit, file cabinets, and drawers. The things you've curated to make your life comfortable. The things you've saved - appliance instructions, old screws and nails, bank statements, solitary socks - the "stuff" that may not "spark joy" as Kondo puts it, but the stuff that you think will come in handy one day. Or your childhood collections, in my case of postcards and dolls.
All that you hold dear or find valuable in terms of the stuff of your life, at one point and inevitably, it will be meaningless. And that's OK. The memories are still there, and it's not a purge of them from your life. It's a way to move forward, it's giving yourself space to breathe, because as much as you don't want to, the forward motion has to happen.
Give things a place of honor and joy as best you can.
It's hard to know what to do with things that aren't sentimental but that are still in good shape and don't deserve to be flung to the dump. Maybe no one you know needs another bed frame or dresser, not stylish enough to be vintage, but just old-fashioned. Towels and sheets are easy enough to donate. But what do you do with things like yearbooks? Half-finished sewing projects?
I don't collect baseball cards, stamps, or Boy Scout stuff, but I flirted briefly with the idea that I should start collecting all those things my dad had. Holding onto those collections wouldn't do a thing to bring him back, though, and there are people in the world who surely would find more value in them than I could.
Schools and universities may be on the lookout for old yearbooks - we found an old friend of my dad's who was overjoyed to have some of his old Boy Scout stuff, a distant relative was stoked on the idea of getting some of the stamp collection, and my dream is that someone at the local thrift store will find a way to put together the quilt blocks into a cozy, warm comforter.
It's time-consuming to do more than just chuck things in the dump, but it feels right to be able to see things that brought joy and value into my dad's and my granddad's lives find new homes where they'll be appreciated.
35 Facts You Learned in School That Are Completely Wrong
If you really think back to everything you learned as a kid, you'll probably realize how inaccurate a lot of the stuff was. Whether it was taught directly in the classroom or told by your parents, much of what we've always assumed as common knowledge is flawed. Like the whole Thanksgiving thing, obviously, plus a list of other lies many of us have believed our whole lives. Prepare to be surprised by the 35 false facts ahead.
5 Best Disneyland Walls to Take Photos in Front of on Your Next Visit
You can't visit Disneyland and not take a photo. The Anaheim park and theme parks in general, however, don't offer the most ideal photo-taking conditions with so many people around. But there are spots sprinkled around both Disneyland and California Adventure next door for Instagram-worthy photo ops.
Knowing the dedication of Disney fans, we weren't surprised to find several Instagram accounts dedicated to the walls of Disney. So next time you're at the parks, make sure to locate one of the top five Disneyland walls for the best photos.
11 Ingenious Pampered Chef Products That Will Make Cooking So Much Easier
Admittedly, I barely know how to cook. When I successfully make a delicious meal without burning myself or the food, I consider it an enormous accomplishment and send a proud photo to my parents and post it to Instagram for all to see. One brand that has helped me hone my food skills significantly, however, is Pampered Chef.
The brand was founded in 1980 with the aim of making cooking easier and more enjoyable, and so far I've been super impressed by the products. Each item is designed with what seems to be every possible use and solution in mind. The line features pans with removable handles (for easy storage!) that are dishwasher safe and gadgets that help to solve every kitchen problem imaginable. Thanks to the brand, my learning process has gone smoothly and hasn't resulted in any severe injuries yet.
Removing These 31 Things From Your Life Will Make You Happier and More Successful
It's time to come clean. If you want to become a happier person, you don't need to add things to your life - you need to get rid of them. It's time to remove these worries or problems so that you can move in the right direction. Take this list to heart and look forward to a flourishing life.
39 Tips That'll Save You Hundreds on Your Next Trip
Travel can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can pay for. However, it can also be one of the most expensive. Fortunately, there are ways to cut costs so you can afford your dream vacation. Read on for some of the best tips to save on the upfront costs of your next trip.
Step Up Your Dinner Game With These 21 Ina Garten Recipes
While Ina Garten may only have eyes for Jeffrey, the rest of the world has eyes for the dishes the Barefoot Contessa seems to easily whip up in no time.
Dinner is the time where families sit around and talk to each other about their days, or the time where they gather on the couch and bond around a television show or even a game. For singles, it may be their downtime, whether cooking for themselves or savoring the meal and the quiet that comes with it. Dinner looks different in every household, but one thing is for certain - we all want the most delicious meal we can have in the least amount of time we can spend prepping and cooking.
Well, as usual, Ina is here to save the day. Check out this roundup of some of her best - and easiest - dinner dishes and see if you can keep your mouth from watering.
10 Reasons Being a Divorced Mom Is Actually Kind of Awesome
I recently overheard some of my married mom friends discussing how they can't remember the last time they slept past 6:30 a.m, as if their kids waking them up at the crack of dawn was a universal mom problem. As I listened, I suddenly I found myself unexpectedly smirking. I sleep late every other weekend and every Tuesday morning. Divorce sure does have its perks, I thought.
As is often the case with life, I have been pleasantly surprised to discover that divorce is not nearly as awful as I had first anticipated. Once I got through the initial sadness and mastered the art of acceptance, I adjusted nicely to life as a divorcee. I soon caught myself smiling and laughing more often. On the weekends, when the kids were at their dad's house, I discovered creative methods of self-care that helped me embrace my time without the kids rather than sit in misery missing them. All of the pieces started to fit together, and just a few short years after the divorce was finalized, I fell in love with my life again. Here is what I love about life after divorce.
- The B Word (Balance) - A shared custody agreement comes with built-in balance for both parents. I'm forced to take time to myself, away from my children. I've learned to cherish my "off" days and take good care of myself with things like mani-pedis, visits to the gym, and a table for one at the nearest fine-dining establishment.
- Dating at 40? Hell, Yeah! - Dating is fun and exciting. I have new confidence in myself and zero expectations, which makes for a pretty good combo when swiping right. My life is full and complete, and I love myself, so I have nothing to lose in the world of dating. It's exciting to think that The One may still be out there, and that, at 40 years old, the best is yet to come.
- I Like My Ex a Lot More Now That He Isn't My Husband - I consider myself lucky, because I can honestly say that I get along well with my ex-husband. He's the only other person in the universe who loves our three kids as much as I do, and our interactions are restricted to children-related topics and activities only. We coparent and put the kids before everything else, so I'd say we get along about 92 percent of the time, which is pretty good considering our track record.
- Sleep Is Amazing - I may never get married again because I love (like, love with a capital L Love) sleeping alone. I can't ever imagine wanting to sleep in the same bed with another grown adult every single night for the rest of my life. I love my bed, my covers, and my pillows at the temperature of my choice. No snoring. No sleep talking. No one else waking up to use the bathroom in the middle of the night, or, God forbid, hitting snooze five times on his alarm clock in the morning. No. Thank. You.
- I Love My Last Name Again - I reverted to my maiden name when I got divorced and it was a decision that plagued me for months. I didn't want to throw salt on the divorce wound and tell the kids, "I'm not a Walsh anymore." It was, however, something I needed to do to remain true to myself and thus it feels right, I have no regrets, and the kids are just fine. Sure, their friends still call me Mrs. Walsh, but hey, IDGAF. I will always be a Hayes.
- Like Destiny's Child, I'm an Independent Woman - I have fixed toilets, hung pictures, packed up moving trucks, painted walls, shoveled the snow, and paid my own bills. I load the dishwasher however I want, leave dishes in the sink overnight, and watch whatever Netflix series I want by myself. Independence feels good.
- I Found Myself - Being a wife and a mom at a young age, I lost myself. I fell into the mom role, not really knowing who I was or what I wanted out of life. Only after I got divorced did I truly find myself. I discovered hobbies that were all mine, I learned my strengths and weaknesses, and I created new goals for myself all because I had the freedom and independence to explore all things me.
- I Can Do It - There were days when I felt as though I could not get it all done. Sometimes the emotional toll of being a divorced mom was too much to bear. But the more I got through those days, the more I learned I could do it, and I would do it. No matter what. I look back on a handful of hard times and I'm proud of myself for getting through it all with strength, courage, and integrity. I use that to power through the next challenge.
- The Kids Are Closer to Each Other - I catch glimpses of my children comforting one another, laughing over private jokes, and even reading bedtime stories to each other. I know they're closer to one another because of the divorce, and for that I'm grateful. They have learned to be there for each other through thick and thin, laughter, and tears, and they're creating bonds that will last a lifetime.
- Silver Linings - Life after divorce has taught me to look for the silver lining in everything. If I can get through the end of a marriage and find blessings in the ultimate failure, well, damn, I can find silver linings in just about anything.
mardi 15 mai 2018
CVS Will Launch a Pack of Essie Bridal Nail Polishes - and 1 Could Be Worn at the Royal Wedding!
Brides can spend months searching for their wedding day makeup artist, hairstylist, and overall beauty aesthetic. In the midst of all that planning, you shouldn't forget an integral (and fun) part of your cosmetics ensemble - nail polish, duh!
CVS Pharmacy just made picking out your preferred hue gloriously easy with the release of its Royal Wedding collection. And even though Meghan Markle's big day beauty look is still up in the air, there's a huge possibility that one of the selected hues could be worn at Windsor Castle on May 19.
The shade in question is Essie's Ballet Slippers ($9), a 29-year-old classic that was commissioned for Queen Elizabeth II by her official hairdresser. Brand founder Essie Weingarten created the pale pink to juxtapose Her Majesty's bright ensembles. It's been adorning the Queen's nails since 1989, so we wouldn't be surprised if she showed up to Meghan's and Prince Harry's wedding wearing her go-to.
But back to you, Summer brides looking for nail inspo: along with this 10-piece collection, CVS Pharmacy will be the first store to launch an Essie loyalty program that's a must have for nail junkies. Aptly titled "Obsessie," this bundle allows you to buy four polishes, and then get one for free. Since Essie drops a new line of shades every month, this will let you keep your manis fresh without spending more than you would on your electric bill for your nails.
Read on to see the entire wedding collection - good luck picking just one to wear on your big day!
What You Should Smell Like, According to Your Zodiac Sign
Lately, it seems like you can rep your zodiac sign in all aspects of your beauty routine. You can match your favorite highlighter or lipstick to your star sign, or take a page out of artist Setareh Hosseini's beauty book and dress up as your horoscope for Halloween. And now, the trend has come for your shower thanks to Spongellé's Zodiac Body Buffer Collection.
You probably know (and plan your love life around) the zodiac. Spongellé has broken up all 12 horoscopes into their respective elements to create celestial scrubs tailor-made to suit your sign.
Here's a quick crash course in astrology for those who only relate to Earth, Wind, and Fire on the dance floor. Air includes Aquarius, Libra, and Gemini; Earth includes Capricorn, Virgo, and Taurus; Fire includes Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius; and Water includes Pisces, Cancer, and Scorpio.
The scrub's lather omits a fragrance that's set to suit your sign. It can be reused for up to 15 times, or about half of your birth month. Read on to see what you should be smelling like, according to the Zodiac.
Meghan Markle's Messy Bun Is Proof That Even Future Royals Don't Always Tame Their Flyaways
Guys, Meghan Markle is the chillest royal-to-be, and we're so here for it. When the now-former actress took a trip to Northern Ireland with her future husband, Prince Harry, she casually rewore the same cream sweater she donned for her engagement photos and sported yet another effortless, undone bun.
Her tousled updo, technically referred to as a chignon (a fancy French word for a coiled style arranged at the nape of the neck), featured a center part and piecey strands that framed her face. It's sort of like that hairstyle you throw together when you're running late for work on a Monday, and we're obsessed.
This isn't the first time Meghan has put a messy updo on display during an official royal appearance. In fact, she did so not once but twice in January. These elegantly windblown looks are quite contrary to Kate Middleton's permanently blown-out hair, which just further proves how Meghan isn't afraid to do things her own way.
The rest of Meghan's beauty look in Northern Ireland was gorgeous, per usual, as she swiped on a light pink lip color, rosy blush, and smudged eyeliner. Read on to see her royally perfect hair and makeup from all angles, and then scope out all the details about her chic outfit. Catch me copying this messy bun in 3, 2, 1 . . .
These 20 Treatments For Thinning Hair Actually Work - According to Pros
If you've noticed your hair thinning, you're not alone. "As a salon owner and hairstylist, thinning hair and hair loss are the top concerns of my clients. They all ask me how can they achieve thicker, fuller hair while finding a way to get hair to regrow," says Gabriel Samra, a celebrity hairstylist.
That said, being in good company isn't exactly comforting when you're literally watching your hair wash down the drain. While some hair loss might indicate a deeper medical issue and therefore need to be treated by a doctor, it could be due to stress or poor hair health (see here for a list of common causes), in which case hair experts say you can take matters into your own hands.
From supplements to fillers (it's like Botox for your hair), read on for some of the innovative and sometimes unusual (gelatin, anyone?) products they recommend to clients seeking thicker hair. Some of these picks have proven so successful that the experts have incorporated them into their own regimens.
Meghan Markle Calls This Popular Beauty Oil Her "Cure-All"
Ever since Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced their engagement, we've been digging deep in the internet archives to find out all we can about the actress. The more we uncover, the more amazing she seems. The same goes for her beauty routine. She's been very vocal about being a product junkie, and the latest potion the web has uncovered that she loves is none other than tea tree oil.
In a 2014 Allure interview, Meghan said, "The one thing I cannot live without when I'm traveling is a small container of tea tree oil. It's not the most glamorous thing, but if you get a cut, a mosquito bite, a small breakout, no matter what it is, it's my little cure-all."
She's definitely onto something. "Tea tree oil is a great way to clear blemishes since it's antibacterial and soothing," Angela Jia Kim, founder of Savor Beauty and Spas, told POPSUGAR. The all-natural ingredient has also been known to be comparable to five percent benzoyl peroxide for blemishes. That's on top of a ton of other uses, from treating athlete's foot to dandruff, dry skin, and more.
Ahead, get your royal glow on with tea tree products you can shop now.
Meghan Markle's Best Hair Moments Prove She's Always Been a Royal in Waiting
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's engagement has us not only swooning over their adorable announcement but also sending our beauty-obsessed brains into overdrive about what her wedding hair will look like. We may have to wait until 2018 to find out, but we can still look back at her best hair moments so far for a few hints. She's the queen of relaxed, chic waves, and you'll probably want to re-create her go-to style immediately.
Ahead, see Megan's best mane moments that prove she was born to be a royal, with hair just as fabulous as Kate's!
I Tried This Bestselling $7 Concealer, and It Made My Dark Circles Completely Disappear
I have dark circles under my eyes that just won't go away. It doesn't matter if I'm well-rested or persistent with my skincare regimen, they're always there. For over a decade now, I have been on the hunt for the perfect concealer that will cover up those pesky bags. It's difficult to find a choice that isn't too thick and cakey. On the flip side, I don't want a greasy formula that makes my mascara rub off. At long last, I have finally found the ideal option.
You would never know I have rings under my eyes because they vanish instantly.
I tried this Maybelline Makeup Instant Age Rewind Concealer ($7) and immediately fell in love with it. This pick is a bestseller on Amazon, and for good reason. It has over 4,000 reviews on the site, and 60 percent of customers give it five stars - that's pretty impressive. So why does it work so well?
The superconcentrated formula is infused with goji berry to brighten and illuminate the under-eye area while it covers up your dark circles. The soft, spongy applicator allows the formula to glide on smoothly; the product is evenly distributed across your skin. After a couple swipes, I simply tap the concealer with my finger until it's fully blended. You would never know I have rings under my eyes because they vanish instantly.
If you still need more convincing, just go look at all the customer photos. I'm begging you to give this concealer a shot. As a total makeup snob, I find myself reaching for this choice every single day. It's like a full night of sleep in a bottle! So who is going to buy it? I promise you'll be happy you did.
18 Photos That Document Meghan Markle's Royal Beauty Transformation
As much as we adore Kate Middleton, we are thrilled to finally have a new member of the royal family to obsess over: Meghan Markle. The actress and now fiancée of Prince Harry has always been a beauty junkie, with a documented love for Shu Uemura lash curlers, YSL concealers, NARS blush, and countless other products. Because the Suits star was a public figure before she ever met Harry, we've been blessed with a vault of photos documenting her entire beauty evolution.
Meghan has always embraced her natural beauty and seemingly goes by the "enhance, don't cover up" philosophy of makeup. She likes to show off the freckles she was born with and rarely wears more than a neutral lip color and some mascara. That being said, there have been moments she's ventured into colorful territory. As we inch closer to the May 2018 royal wedding, you better believe we'll be keeping a close eye on all the beauty inspiration Meghan serves.
Ahead, check out Meghan's best makeup moments, from 2000s-era pastel eye shadow to bushy brows and red lips.
Meghan Markle Continues Her Reign of Making Effortlessly Chic Buns Royally Appropriate
It's official: Meghan Markle's messy royal bun is here to stay, and we're totally here for it. We first noticed the shabby-chic bun during Meghan and Prince Harry's visit to Reprezent Radio in Brixton, and she opted for the style again during the couple's visit to Cardiff on Jan. 18. Meghan's messy bun has caught so much attention because we're used to seeing Kate Middleton's glossy blowouts, and at first the royal-to-be appeared to be following suit.
It's refreshing to see Meghan take on royal style and beauty, proving that you can still look professional without being perfectly polished (we're looking at you, Kate). Meghan is making gym hair royally appropriate. If you ever needed an excuse to skip hair wash day and rock a topknot, this is it. Meghan, we're eternally grateful.
These 25 Koi Fish Tattoos Will Swim Into Your Heart
When pondering your next ink, consider adding one (or a few) koi fish to your body's art collection. Not only are koi fish beautiful and diverse in color, but they can also represent a plethora of good omens like luck, success, longevity, courage, and ambition.
Depending on the direction in which your koi tattoo is swimming, it can change its meaning. A koi fish swimming upstream can symbolize a current or past battle (like, you know, swimming upstream), while a koi swimming downstream can symbolize that you've already conquered your goals and obstacles. Many people choose to get a yin-yang-style koi tattoo, representing balance.
The tattoos can be drawn in a variety of styles, accompanied by lotus flowers, or just minimalist outlines. Keep reading to check out these fresh ideas.
Royal Wedding White and 13 More Nail Shades You'll Want This Summer
As you await the arrival of those statement sandals you impulse bought during a 3 a.m. bout with insomnia, you might as well pick up a few polishes to prep your nails. Sure, you could stick with that basic ballerina pink, but why not invest in a new statement color?
From Pink Martini to Cotton Candy Blue, there are colors to match the sweet tastes you'll be indulging in during rooftop happy hour. Or you could match your nails with your favorite pair of cutoffs via Dior's new, fun-to-say Blop polish. There's even an ivory option to celebrate Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's upcoming nuptials (because don't lie, we know you're totally waking up at the crack of dawn to watch the event).
Keep reading to see every one!
9 Italian-Themed Fragrances You Can Use to Pretend You're on Vacation
If you're like my friends (or more specifically, the people I barely know but vicariously Instagram stalk), it's almost vacation season. Visions of picturesque Mediterranean destinations like Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, or the Riviera may dance in your head. If you're like me, you're all out of PTO and the closest you'll get to Italy is through closing your eyes, eating a lot of Trader Joe's mozzarella, and pretending you smell a sea breeze.
Luckily, Italy has long been the muse of many fragrance houses, so even if you're not jetting off to your own Roman holiday, you can live like Audrey Hepburn on vacation. Whether you opt for a luxurious Dolce & Gabbana perfume or a pampering almond hand cream, we've found the nine best ways to channel your inner Italian.
Iskra Lawrence Just Proved That Rose Gold Hair Is Anything but Dead
Rose gold hair reached its zenith about four years ago, when the rainbow trend reigned supreme, and while it may not be the newest trend out there, it certainly isn't dead. In fact, the buzzy hue is having a renaissance - as made evident by Iskra Lawrence's new Cannes look.
The model showed up to the French film festival ditching her known-and-loved blond locks for a chic, faded style that came courtesy of none other than a drugstore dye. The L'Oréal Paris UK spokesperson used the brand's Preference Infinia in Rose Gold 8.23, which isn't available stateside.
Luckily, the superaffordable L'Oréal Paris Feria Permanent Hair Color in 822 Rose Gold ($9) is on the market and will give strands a similar pink copper tint. As Iskra wrote on Instagram, "[The color] will hopefully last for about a month" - that is, unless she has to switch things up for work.
We're loving how the near universally flattering hue looks on Iskra's Cannes tan, and we also dig that she gave her Old Hollywood Veronica Lake-esque curls a modern update with the trendy color. Long live rose gold!
Meghan Markle's 1 Makeup Request Is to Make Sure Her "Freckles Are Peeking Through"
Image Source: Getty/ Max Mumby/Indigo
It's safe to say that Meghan Markle is our 2018 beauty icon. Her effortless natural makeup and messy-but-chic hair is something we aspire to. Who better to learn the secrets from than Meghan's former makeup artist and hair stylist, Lydia Sellers?
In an interview with Refinery29, Lydia praised the royal bride-to-be for maintaining her "sense of self" despite the spotlight following her engagement to Prince Harry. It's no secret that Meghan likes to keep her beauty routine minimal, aiming to enhance her features rather than covering them up.
Lydia says that Meghan is "so confident with herself and her look, and she sticks with that." She recalls one specific beauty request: "Every time I'd do her makeup, she'd say, 'Can we just make sure my freckles are peeking through? I don't want a ton of foundation.'" Lydia says she'd reach for Armani Luminous Silk Foundation ($64), which gives sheer coverage with lots of hydration and all day wear. With Meghan's royal influence and makeup artists like Sir John preaching about his love of freckles, we're definitely convinced to opt for a more natural look.
Image Source: Getty / Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool
Lydia also noted that Meghan tries to be as natural in her approach to beauty as possible, too. She favors eco-friendly brand such as Tatcha and RMS. The research Meghan conducted for her (now defunct) blog The Tig meant she was aware of the environmental issues surrounding beauty, and choose her favorite brands accordingly.
Lydia also gave her royal wedding hair predictions, saying that Meghan always gravitates toward having her hair down, whether that be sleek or wavy. However, because it's a royal wedding, Lydia predicts something a little more chic, like an elegant chignon. We second this educated guess after seeing Meghan out and about with her signature messy bun during her recent royal engagements. Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: she'll be an effortless, natural beauty!
How to Get Meghan Markle's Royal Hair Color, According to a Pro
Right now, Meghan Markle is everything. It's no wonder so many of us are crushing on her: not only is she about to live out every little (and big) girl's fantasy by becoming a princess, but she's also giving, effortlessly chic, and down-to-earth - as per her former makeup artist, her only beauty request is to let her freckles shine through - and she's got a mane so glorious we're all taking notes on how to replicate it.
Although, quite sadly, we all can't personally marry Prince Harry, we can get Meghan's hair color. I turned to one of LA's top celebrity colorists, Amanda George, the founder of the appropriately named ROIL - pronounced "royal" and even emblazoned with a little crown! - hair care and its accompanying global beauty salons, for help turning my royal hair fantasy into a reality.
George, who happens to hail from the UK, gave me tips on how to give both brunettes and blondes Meghan's rich chestnut hue. "For a girl who is already a brunette that wants Meghan's hair color, we would firstly even out her hair color with a Redken Shades EQ in the level 5, add a few babylights and tips, then regloss with a nice chocolaty brown in a level 6/7 L'Oreal Richesse," she told POPSUGAR.
"For a girl who is blond, going to Meghan's color is more complicated," she continues. "The hair must first be filled with a warm gold, then the color evened out with a nice neutral brown. The same process can be repeated with babylights and tips, this time finishing with a Redken Shades EQ warm brown glaze level 6/7."
George also gives us tips on how to get Meghan's perfectly coiffed 'do. "To style your hair like Meghan's, we would wash your hair using the ROIL Shine Shampoo ($36) and ROIL Shine Conditioner ($43). Then, we would evenly apply Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil ($55), section the hair up, and dry with an Ibiza round brush ($44) for body and bend. For a wavier look, wrap sections of freshly blown hair around a medium-size curling iron. Shake, tousle, style, and spray and be on your way."
Who knows? You might even bag your own prince . . .
This Kid's Blunt Mother's Day Note Is Ruthless, but, Also, He Has a Point
For those moms who actually look forward to celebrating Mother's Day, enjoy it while you can. There's a kid out there who just reclaimed the day for all others like him.
In a handwritten Mother's Day card shared to Reddit, a boy named Joshua penned a ruthless, yet not untrue, sentiment to his mom:
"I just wanted to tell you that Mother's Day wouldn't be possible without me. I'll be waiting for my present in the living room."
First, these kids took away birthdays (you know, those painful hours in which we did all the work and they just showed up?), and now they are coming for Mother's Day . . .
The Reason This Mom Exclusively Uses Paper Plates For Meals Is Actually So Sweet
When I was a kid, my mom always had a stack of paper plates handy to make weekend meals easier to clean up, beginning each week with our traditional Friday night takeout meal. For every other day of the week, we'd use the "real" dishes, like most families, I'd imagine. However, one mom that Annie of Laughter and Kisses came across in her local Costco is making an incredibly sweet argument for using paper plates at every single meal (environmentalists, just hear her out!).
When Annie was behind this paper plate-loving mom in Costco, she says, "She was buying a massive amount of paper plates. Even for Costco standards!" which is what prompted the cashier to ask if the mom was hosting a party.
"[The mom] responded no. 'I use them at every meal. You see I have young kids, and I get stuck with meal clean up all the time. This is the one thing I treat myself to. I'd way rather be spending that time with my kids than doing the dishes.' The young cashier smiled with her Instagram-worthy makeup and well rested eyes. Obviously, she did not understand. I smiled to myself. I understood," Annie wrote in a post to her blog's Facebook page.
Feeling inspired by this mystery mom's tradition of using paper plates at every meal, Annie found herself in the grocery store a few weeks later trying to do mental math to figure out how much dishwasher soap was costing her per load.
That woman's voice popped into my head. "She would rather spend that time with her kids." I booked it the paper goods a few aisles over, and I treated myself to a few extra memories with my kids. Instead of stressing over getting the dishes loaded before bed time, I ran in the backyard with my kids chasing the soccer ball. We enjoyed roasted marshmallows by the fire instead of me scrubbing those plastic Paw Patrol plates. I treated myself to a stack of paper plates and a life time of memories with my kids this week!
So mamas, take note: even if you can't quite figure out whether the dollar value of each load of dishes is cheaper than a stack of Dixie plates, know that the memories you'll get to make with your kids instead may just be worth their weight in gold.
10 Things You Should Never Say to Your Partner
Parenting can be hard. Between sleep deprivation, temper tantrums, and strong-willed personalities, it's not always easy to know what to do. Our partners in this parenting journey deserve to be treated with respect and trust, even through fits of anger. There are a few things that under no uncertain circumstances should you say to your coparent, even if you really, REALLY want to. Your relationship, and your kids, will be better off if you avoid these 10 harsh phrases altogether.
22 Unisex Baby Clothes So Cute, You'll Forget All About Pink and Blue
Whether you're shopping for a mom-to-be who is intentionally waiting until she delivers to find out her baby's gender or one who just isn't particularly jazzed about dressing their new bundle in gender-conforming colors like neon pink and nautical blue, there are tons of adorable - and stylish - baby clothes out there that are unisex. From onesies decorated with your favorite foods (think ripe avocados) to black-and-white patterned slip-on pants that will match anything, we found 22 gender-neutral pieces that any parent will love dressing their little love bug in. You'll forget all about traditional shades after this.
19 Gag Gifts So Funny, Everyone Will Laugh Opening Them
When it comes time to get a gift for someone, there are really two main avenues to take: finding a thoughtful and meaningful gift that they'll treasure, or searching for something so absurdly funny that they'll LOL opening it up. If you're leaning toward the latter, you're in luck. We searched the internet and found 19 presents so silly that we could barely keep it together. From toilet paper with our president's face on it to a fanny pack designed to look like a beer gut (it might be our favorite of the batch), we found the best of the best. Happy gifting.
45 Custom Mickey Ear Ideas Your Kids Are Going to Want For Your Next Disney Vacation
Taking a trip to a Disney park simply isn't the same without mouse ears. Even if Mickey isn't your favorite character, the iconic headpiece is quintessential to the Disneyland (or Walt Disney World) experience! To make your next trip the best one yet, we've rounded up all kinds of ideas for custom mouse ears that reflect your family's personality - some of them even come from ear-makers themselves!
Keep scrolling for creative takes on Disney headwear . . . whether you're brave enough to DIY a pair or want to commission custom ears from a crafty seller, these are the best ideas out there.
I'm Not Letting My Son Have Any Social Media Accounts Until He's 16
When I went to my son's recent parents' evening at his grade school, I got a scare I wasn't expecting. Before we got to see his books, chat to his teacher, and look at all the pictures from the year, we were invited to watch a video explaining the dangers of social media. Like almost every other parent there, I sat down out of duty and expected to be bored by things I already knew. Ten minutes later, I stood up and vowed silently to myself that my child wouldn't go anywhere near social media until he's a teenager.
There are plenty of things that frighten you when you become a parent, but this video was one of the most memorable. It showed a young girl talking online to someone she'd met on a social media site, except that person turned out to be an adult man. It scared me witless. I get that this is an extreme tool used to make parents aware of just how easy it is for children to get into trouble online, and it worked. I walked away wondering how social media could really bring my child any benefits that would outweigh the risks involved in a world that, if we're honest, we can never really control. Because however much I might think I can ensure he's safe, I can't.
The idea that arguments or bullying from school can be continued online - usually in a much worse and more aggressive fashion - fills me with dread.
We've all heard how kids are always one step ahead of their parents when it comes to technology. A social media account might start off as a thing that he does with Mom and Dad, but it could soon develop into something he wants to do by himself. Loading the washing machine, changing the beds - 10 minutes when I can't concentrate on what he's doing online could be all it takes for danger to approach. But in addition to those unknown, scary things, there's also the danger of cyberbullying. Childhood and teenage friendships can be hard and dramatic, and my child should be able to come home to a place that's free of that. The idea that arguments or bullying from school can be continued online - usually in a much worse and more aggressive fashion - fills me with dread.
And I know firsthand the other downsides to social media. Even as an adult woman with plenty of life experience under my belt, I can feel a momentary pinch when I see I've been excluded from something. For a child, and especially a teenager, even the smallest rejection can cut so much deeper. Worrying about why someone's not responding to your messages or including you in a discussion or event can eat you up inside. I don't want my son to have to go through that before he needs to.
But like every parenting choice, this one comes with an endless debate and a huge amount of guilt. What if I'm protecting my child too much? What if I make them look stupid? What if he's the only kid in class not on Instagram, and that means he gets picked on? What if missing out on those online chats means he doesn't have a clue what everyone else is talking about in school the next day?
I'd like to say the day I have to broach this with him is still far off since he's only 5, but sadly, it's not. It's just around the corner. And the problem is that this is no passing fad. This isn't a quick fascination with a TV character or favorite book - this is a world that, once opened, won't close up again. We don't do social media for a week and then try something else. It almost becomes a lifelong commitment. So, my son will have to wait until he's older. It's a big responsibility, and I won't let him take it on before he's ready.
My Son Is Very Sensitive and Emotional, and I'm More Than OK With That
When the doctor announced that we were having a boy, my morning sickness promptly returned that afternoon. I was shocked. Having been around girls all my life, I had no idea what to do with a boy. The only boys I'd tried to raise were the ones I'd dated in my 20s. So like any good mother, I started doing research . . . at the mall. I watched little guys tackle each other in the shoe racks and nervously prepared for a lot of hard-hitting energy to enter my world.
Then I had my son, my quiet little guy who has never once tacked anyone in a shoe rack, my kid who watches movies and cries during the happy endings, saying, "Mom, this is beautiful." And I love it. I've supported every inch of his sensitive heart because that's who he is. I want him to experience his own rainbow of emotions, because that way, as he grows, he'll have the tools to be able to handle them. He can be comfortable in his own skin. But, I'll admit, I do sometimes second-guess my choice. Would he be happier tougher?
He'd be so uncomfortable trying to live in a more stoic world because my kid is most comfortable being emotional.
"Mom, she said she didn't want to play with me today," he wailed as I scooped him up one day. I'd never seen any other kids leave the school sobbing. Should I have prepared him better for the cold, hard world of preschool? Maybe if I'd encouraged him to climb those shoe racks, he wouldn't be so upset.
Once he cried it out and we could talk, I discovered that his best friend played with someone else for a small time that day, but then joined him again later. His heart had broken for the time they'd spent apart. No, he didn't want to play with anyone else while she was away. He simply wanted to wait for her because she's his best friend. I could feel his pain and wanted to hold him forever - or, you know, at least until he gets married.
Another day he asked me, "Mom, is today a school day?" "Nope," I said. "Today we stay home. It's Saturday." And with that, my little guy burst into tears. I was completely confused. With all the best friend sadness going on at school, I had assumed he hated it, but now he was crying because he couldn't go.
"Honey, why are you sad?" I said. "I love school," he replied. "I want to go." His cries lasted as long as it takes to sing one round of "It's a Small World." We sat in silence while he stared deeply into my eyes. He finally said, "Thanks, Mom. It's OK to cry. It feels good." And then he ran off to play.
It would seem my son is more in touch with his emotions that I am. My fear for his fragile heart was making me doubt my motherly instincts, but he has clearly shown me that making him tougher would be the wrong choice for him. He'd be so uncomfortable trying to live in a more stoic world because my kid is most comfortable being emotional. My son is showing me how to raise him, and I'm thrilled to follow his lead. Right now, he needs to cry to get his sadness out, and I'm happy to be here to hold him as long as he lets me - hopefully until long after he gets married.
Cool or Uptight? What Your Sign Says About You as an Aunt
Being an aunt is pretty freaking awesome. You get to take part in the growth of some amazing children all while being able to go home at the end of the day to your quiet and clean private space. When you first find out that you're going to be an aunt, one of the first things you might think about is what kind of aunt you'll be. From cool aunts who know all the best spots to laid-back and artistic aunts, there's a style that fits everyone. And since the stars have a big say in who we are, you can use your sign to see what kind of aunt you will be (or are!).
- Capricorn. This loyal sign will always be there for their nieces and nephews, whether it's for a conversation or to be picked up from school. To them, family and responsibility are very important and they will do what they can for the ones they love. However, just because they are exceptionally loyal, don't expect the Capricorn aunt to be kissing any boo-boos or supporting bad decisions. Known for not suffering any sense of foolishness, a Capricorn aunt expects that the children also accept responsibility and handle bad moments with maturity.
- Aquarius. An Aquarius aunt is definitely a fun aunt . . . when they're around. This jet-setting, adventurous sign likes to keep things moving, especially to the beat of their own drum. This aunt encourages art, music, and creativity and probably comes with gifts from wherever they just got back from. While the Aquarius aunt offers a lot of love, don't expect to tie them down for any long-term babysitting.
- Pisces. This sign embraces going with the flow and will be the kind of aunt who can lend a hand at a moment's notice. When mom needs a minute to herself, the Pisces aunt is the first to put on her walking shoes and take the kids to the park, where they can explore the world around them. This aunt may be a little judgmental at times of Mom's parenting decisions, but they're always willing to forgive and listen.
- Aries. The Aries aunt is definitely not comfortable with taking the back seat. Think of this sign as another parent, eager to give advice, help, and encourage their nieces and nephews to be the best. While this might be a little exhausting for the parents, eventually they'll learn to love and appreciate that kind of support.
- Taurus. Not being the most flexible sign, the Taurus aunt really works best when given a lot of time to plan. However, they're eager and willing to help, as long it's a practical task. Don't expect this aunt to come up with creative play for her niece or nephew, but she'll definitely be there to help build blocks and clean up afterward.
- Gemini. Depending on what kind of mood she's in, a Gemini aunt can be a great listener and very nurturing. This compassionate sign is gentle and affectionate, so expect this aunt to the be one the kids turn to when they need to talk. There is the potential for the Gemini aunt to need some space, but they never like to be alone for very long and thrive in a playful setting that involves lots of talking.
- Cancer. A Cancer aunt is a mom's best friend, since she will be your first line of defense when it comes to any potential mom-shaming. This feisty sign is happy to take children on excursions, but don't expect them to make friends with new moms in the process. Very protective of their family unit, this sign likes to keep their loved ones close.
- Leo. Be very careful of the Leo aunt. Known for being fun loving, this sign can get into trouble since they love playing like children do. This is the aunt who is first to go down a dangerous slide or decide to play with bubbles indoors. While they mean well, this playful nature might need to be put in check occasionally.
- Virgo. Virgos like to tinker, and the Virgo aunt is no different. If the niece or nephew has a problem, the Virgo aunt will find some way of trying to help. Thankfully, their thoughtfulness and planning abilities are helpful in this situation. Virgo aunts will also encourage the children to be as powerful and fierce as they are.
- Libra. Don't expect the Libra aunt to be dolling out any punishment. While they like to keep things fair, they also aren't strict disciplinarians. Instead, this sign is more likely to take their niece and nephew to a protest or help in the neighborhood some way. They want the world to be a more fair place and want these children to help along the way.
- Scorpio. While a strong sign, this aunt might get caught up in arguments, with and about the children. Don't expect this sign to hold their tongue, because they're going to tell you what they think. While they may get a little heated, Scorpio aunts are also great secret keepers and will surely earn the trust of every kid in the family.
- Sagittarius. This aunt will be the first to document every move, which is great since moms are rarely in pictures. While it might seem a bit obsessive at times, what they really want to do is keep track of how fast these children are growing. This is a loving sign that will do anything for her family.
7 Hidden Things You Might Be Shocked to See on Your Birthing Hospital Bill
Giving birth can be one of the most unpredictable things on the planet. While most women decide on a birth plan before they welcome their little one into the world, a lot of the time it never goes according to that plan. There are superfast deliveries, emergency C-sections, scheduled C-sections, it's-too-late-for-an-epidural deliveries, and so on. Even long after the birth, when mom and baby are recuperating at home and desperately trying to get some sleep, that delivery process can still surprise you.
Even if you have insurance, some things might pop up on your hospital bill that you might not expect. Since not every hospital has the same rules, different policies mean that women might be charged for things they thought were all part of the deal ("deal" meaning "I'm pushing a baby out of my body so all this stuff you use should be included"). Of course, if you're getting ready to deliver, double-check with your hospital ahead of time so you won't get a shock in the mail weeks later.
- Those soothing witch-hazel pads might not be free. While it's fairly common that those oh-so-necessary pads given to women after vaginal birth are free, sometimes they aren't, even if they continue to hand them out like candy.
- That wonderful skin-to-skin contact could cost you. People across the country were shocked a few years ago when a woman was charged $40 to hold her baby after delivery. While one doula explained that this was likely because an extra nurse was needed for the safety of the baby, no new parent wants to be charged to hold their child.
- Motrin and ibuprofen are often charged by the pill. Hospitals love to charge a premium for things. Motrin, Tylenol, and ibuprofen can cost a staggering $15 per pill, so you might want to pack your own.
- Lactation consultations should be covered, but that's not always the case. Despite the fact that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) covers a visit with a lactation consultant in the hospital without a copay, some hospitals are getting away with charging patients. At costs around $150 per visit, that can quickly add up as a new mom tries to learn to nurse her baby.
- Your doula or midwife isn't always covered by insurance. If you want to have a home birth or have your midwife take control of the delivery, this might be a more costly experience. While the cost of using a midwife varies by state and policy, it's not unheard of to be charged $3,000 to $5,000 for the service. Since many insurance policies don't list midwives in their directory or don't cover them at all, patients may have to foot this bill themselves.
- Anything extra during delivery. Yes, it's likely that your insurance will cover the cost of an epidural, getting induced, or anything else out of the ordinary from a natural delivery. Still, you'll be shocked when these things wind up on the bill.
- Using the hospital nursery. Even if you don't use the nursery during your stay in the hospital, the fact that it's even an option to you means you could be charged.
My Dad Died 2 Weeks Before I Gave Birth, and It Almost Broke Me
One week before my expected due date, while my husband was off at his college reunion, I received a call from my mom that my dad was taken to the hospital for emergency surgery. The next night, I got the phone call that he had died in the operating room. It was the worst 24 hours of my life.
I was stuck in a state all alone with my 2-year-old daughter and my unborn child while my husband was driving through the night to get back to me so that he could drive me to my family. When he finally got there, we immediately started the long 10-hour drive home. It was unbearable. I didn't care if I had to give birth on the side of the road because I had to make sure that this all wasn't some terrible nightmare. I had to see for myself that it was really my dad they were talking about and not some stranger. I had to see for myself that he was really gone.
How could this be? I just saw him for Easter. We made plans for the Summer and the following year. How could the man who has always been there for me since day one just go and leave me behind when I needed him most?
On one hand, I was holding this beautiful newborn, and on the other, my heart and spirit were so broken.
I was fortunate enough to have a strong bond with my dad. He was not only there for me as a parent, but as a confidant. Our relationship evolved into a deep friendship with great respect for each other. He was always the first one I called with good or bad news; he taught me how to ride a bike, how to drive a car, and how to be a better person. He was my biggest cheerleader and best safety net. And it was such a blessing to watch him as a grandfather and to see how much he loved every minute he spent with my daughter.
Two weeks after he died, I gave birth to a baby boy. It was truly the most bittersweet moment of my life. On one hand, I was holding this beautiful newborn, and on the other, my heart and spirit were so broken. I was smiling through the tears and overwhelmed by sadness and happiness at the same time. Holding my son close to me, I felt warmth like I was hugging both my son and dad at the same time. The days, weeks, and months after bringing my son home were spent at the intersection of pure joy and despair. And I worried all the time that I wouldn't be able to give my son the love and attention he needed because I was so consumed with grief. Would he resent me? Did he feel neglected? My 2-year-old daughter served as my therapist, constantly reminding me that my dad wasn't gone because he was in my heart. She would wipe away my tears and tell me: "Don't be sad, Mama. It will be OK."
One day, I decided that I just couldn't be consumed by sadness and guilt over lost time, conversations that we would never have, and the milestones that would be missed. I told myself that I had to accept the fact that my dad was gone and to come out of the darkness and accept my new reality, even though I would have preferred to be in denial. I had to be strong not only for myself and my kids, but for my mom, whose brokenness was almost too much to bear. She went from being independent and courageous to bewildered and shattered. I didn't know how to begin to help her when I couldn't even help myself, and I knew that had to change.
Almost a year later, I still struggle with my feelings over my dad's death. I learned that I have to make my own peace with it and not feel like a bad parent because I have dark days. It's OK to feel vulnerable and sad in front of small children. It's OK to take some time for yourself to process your grief. Losing a parent is a very isolating process, and there's no wrong way to deal with it. A piece of my heart will always be broken, but my dad continues to live on not only in me and my memories, but in my kids, too.
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