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.
vendredi 22 juin 2018
How to Talk to Your Kids - Even the Little Ones - About Gun Violence
Gun violence is nothing new in America, but devastating events like the Parkland school massacre can make it difficult to know how to talk to your children about it all. Gun violence isn't a child-friendly topic, but it's our job as parents to be open and honest with our kids, no matter their age. Hopefully in doing so, parents can assuage their child's fears while at the same time giving them the opportunity to process these terrifying occurrences. Here are some easy steps you can take when discussing gun violence.
Related: Teacher's Heartbreaking Tweets About an Active-Shooter Lockdown Prove Why Action Is So Necessary
- Tell them you'll do everything you can to keep them safe. First and foremost, children of all ages want to know they're safe. Do what you can to let them know that you'll do everything in your power to protect them. This comforting reassurance will go a long way toward making them feel better.
- Let them know they're safe at school. While even one school shooting is too many, let your kids know that they're still rare. With younger children, get them to focus on the fun things they do at school, retaining their love of education and association with school as a safe space. With older children, discuss the school's policies and talk through the procedures with them.
- Talk to them about gun safety. A conversation about gun violence is a great time to establish, or review, your family's gun-safety policy. Since many families keep guns in the house, the opportunity to be around guns for some kids is common. But regardless of whether you have a weapon, let your kids know that guns shouldn't be touched if found, and they should always find an adult who can determine the best thing to do.
- Have an active-shooter plan in place. Just like every family should have a gun-safety plan, they should also have an active-shooter plan. Stress to your children that in a dangerous situation, it's best to follow the directions of the adult in charge. If the child is for some reason alone in the event that something were to happen, encourage them to run and escape or seek shelter if that isn't possible.
- Allow them to ask questions. Children of all ages should be given a platform to ask questions. In responding, be as honest as their ages dictate, tapering your answers depending on their maturity level.
- Tailor your responses based off the child's age. Of course, the older the child, the more in depth this conversation could go. While you might not want to talk to a 4-year-old about the political ramification of stricter gun legislation, this might come up with a tween or teenager.
35 Honest and Funny Reasons Being Married Is the Freakin' Best
There are plenty of reasons marriage gets a bad rap. It's easy to slip into bad habits and take your partner for granted, especially if you've been together a long time. But for so many people, marriage is actually the freaking best. You married your best friend - how cool is that? Whether it's acknowledging the little things or doing grand gestures, having a partner for life gives you millions of opportunities to laugh and be silly together, even through the hard times. Keep reading for 35 funny reasons being married is the best.
James Van Der Beek Just Revealed the Beautiful Chaos Behind His Wife's Home Birth
James Van Der Beek and his wife, Kimberly, recently welcomed their fifth child, a baby girl named Gwendolyn, and while his initial announcement photos looked pristine and perfect, the 41-year-old actor drew back the curtain on the family's home birth experience a few days later. He shared a photo on Instagram with a warning in the caption to just "move on" if you're squeamish, because he served up some birth "realness."
The photo shows a shirtless James holding his new baby skin-to-skin while his son, Joshua, dressed as Spider-Man, stands in the background. James called out the chaos surrounding him in his caption, identifying the messy bed, the unused vomit bag, the birthing tub, a towel on the floor, a water bottle, and oh, Kimberly's placenta in a mixing bowl. Yep, that's about as real as it gets.
He followed up this photo by sharing a peaceful shot of Kimberly holding Gwendolyn, to make up for the one with the "placenta in a mixing bowl." All jokes aside, it's refreshing to see such a real look into a home birth. It may end up being chaotic and messy, but as James's photo proves, there's a beautiful result.
8 Ways to Support Someone Going Through IVF
I've never gone through IVF (in vitro fertilization), but I have experienced pregnancy loss and watched while friend after friend experienced a myriad of infertility issues from stillbirths to multiple rounds of IVF. As a child, it never crossed my mind when playing "house" that those pretend babies I had might not ever be real. Once I got pregnant with the first pregnancy though, I learned that making a baby is not as easy as it looks. Hitting the end of my thirties, I am standing by and holding the hands of friends who are also discovering that, lo and behold, pregnancy is not a walk in the park. If you know a friend or family member going through IVF, keep in mind that it's not easy and try to support them with one or all of these three ways!
Don't Ignore the Elephant
Your friend may not want to talk about what's going on, but at least ask her how she's doing and see if she wants to talk. If she says she doesn't want to talk about it, then leave her be, but ignoring the topic altogether is uncomfortable and makes your friend feel as if people are too afraid to ask how she is. This is difficult because she needs the support, so even if you simply ask if she would like to talk, she will feel loved.
Don't Ask Everyday If She's Pregnant
In fact, don't ask if she's pregnant at all. Ask how she is doing regarding IVF. That way if she wants to tell you, she can, and if she doesn't want to tell you, she is not put on the spot. Some family members eager for another baby in the family will ask daily if their family member is pregnant, and it's frustrating and upsetting for the person going through the process. Believe you me, she wants to be pregnant even more than you do. Ease up on the pressure!
Learn About the Process
Each IVF experience is different, but there is a ton of information on the internet or in your local library (for the older generation) that will give you an idea of some of the trials and tribulations a woman undergoing IVF and her family are experiencing. Knowledge is power. If you understand the process somewhat, you are then able to ask good questions or at least follow along.
The fact is, most of the time, all a woman and her partner need is a good ear and a hug.
Mood Swings and Weight Gain
It's common for women going through the IVF process to gain weight and experience mood swings. Don't comment harshly - or at all, especially about her weight. There's nothing she can do about it. Hormones are a mighty thing, so zip your lips and recognize that even if she snaps at you, it's most likely because she's under duress and the mood-altering power of hormones.
Cautious With the Pregnancy Talk
Friend after friend going through IVF (and those of us who miscarried) finds Facebook News Feeds almost offensive with the amount of pregnancy chatter. It's very difficult to watch others delight in the joy of a baby while, for this person, making one is so much work it's like a second job. If you're pregnant or hear of other friends who are pregnant, be delicate about the matter. Your swollen feet and nausea may be awful, but for the woman doing a round of IVF, those are signs of joy. It's all perception.
Offer Your Hand
Is she feeling crappy at work and perhaps needing a helping hand today? Does she need someone to go with her to treatments while her partner works? Is she feeling depressed and needing a girls' night? Don't be general: asking if she needs something will simply end up with her stating "no" most likely. Instead, offer specific help as listed above. For example, "Do you want me to come with you to the doctor's tomorrow?" It's more effective than just, "Do you need something?" She may say no and want privacy, but asking goes a long way to show you love someone.
The Day Of
On that day she's waiting for pregnancy results, don't pester her to know the answer. This is one time you should wait for her to tell you. She may not be ready to talk about it, whether it's positive news or negative.
Recognize
Recognize that pregnancy for you may have been a joyful experience, but for the woman undergoing IVF, it may never feel totally carefree, even when she's ready to deliver. When you have to fight to make that baby happen, everything seems precarious and tentative.
Showing your friend, coworker, or family member extra love during this difficult time is incredibly helpful. A little empathy and a kind ear go a long way!
15 Books That Will Teach Your Kids About Empathy
Teaching children to grow up to become empathetic adults is probably one of the more important responsibilities of being a parent. And it's even more vital now than ever before due to the unfiltered exposure kids have to things like hate speech, intolerance, and bigotry. Children are like sponges, and in order for them to learn how to become compassionate and understanding human beings, it's essential to nurture their sense of kindness.
A recent study found that college students were 40 percent less empathetic than their counterparts 30 years ago even though social media has made it increasingly easier to connect with others. This, along with an increase in levels of narcissism, makes for an alarming change in the personality traits of younger generations. One of the best ways to teach your child empathy early is through books they will actually enjoy. Keep reading for 15 books that will help your child learn about walking in someone else's shoes.
The Best Baby Names Based on Zodiac Signs
If you're expecting a baby, whether it's your first or fourth, choosing a name can be pretty daunting. While you may want to wait to meet your baby before settling on a name, it's always nice to have a few options picked out beforehand. But where do you start? If you're looking for a little bit of guidance for names that might fit your little one's personality, look no further than their zodiac sign. Keep reading to see some of our favorite baby names for each sign!
How These "Accidental Gay Parents" Are Redefining Family
Image Source: Kevin Truong
For Biff Chaplow and Trystan Reese, becoming parents was a lot like coming out.
"It's a slow process - and you kind of know it's coming," Chaplow explains to POPSUGAR. "You get to a point, usually long after it happens, where you realize, 'I am a parent.'"
Reese agrees. "It's similar in that there's a lot of self-doubt," he says. "Is this the right path for us? Am I going to be happy on this path? I kept expecting people to say, 'What? You can't be parents!' And all we got was support."
While this call to parenting may sound atypical in how unpredictable it was, that's because it truly was: Chaplow and Reese - a cisgender gay man and transgender gay man, respectively - had only been dating for a year before they adopted Chaplow's sister's children to protect them from entering the foster system. Riley was 3 years old and Hailey was 1 year old at the time - they are now 10 and 7 - and once the papers were signed, Chaplow and Reese famously became "accidental gay parents."
Their story rippled across the internet by way of the popular parenting podcast The Longest Shortest Time.
Their unlikely path in parenthood was just beginning, however. The duo decided to share their lives as queer parents online via their website, Biff and I, and their Instagram. In 2017, they opened a new chapter in their story when Reese became pregnant and gave birth to their son Leo, now 10 months old. The experience sparked a lot of questions from the general public, but Reese and Chaplow point out that their journey isn't unheard of.
"It's not a special story," Reese laughs, recalling how many transgender fathers he knows. "But we forgot, truly, how divided this country is and how many spheres of reality there are. For most people in this world, they don't live in the sphere of reality where transgender men have babies. That was a surprise that people were so blown away - so positively and so negatively."
Throughout these experiences, both Chaplow and Reese have realized that being queer parents isn't an easy matter since so many systems in society intend to break their autonomy. For them, this was particularly pronounced in the court system as they fought to secure both emergency and permanent guardianship of their two eldest children, a process that required several court visits in a venue where many queer parents are denied adoptive rights.
"Every time you have to go in front of a judge - which many LGBTQ+ folks have to do in order to secure their families - it's like you're rolling the dice."
"The systems are not built for us," Reese explains, citing their adoption experience and his own work as the director of family formation at the Family Equality Council. "Any time we bump up against the system, there is friction. Every time you have to go in front of a judge - which many LGBTQ+ folks have to do in order to secure their families - it's like you're rolling the dice."
Reese says that uncertainty was also reflected in his pregnancy. "Am I going to get a doctor who is up on the latest research around trans pregnancies, who will understand what we're doing is safe and medically advisable, or am I going to get someone who is going to bring their outdated bias? Any time you bump against an individual of bias or systems that are developed for straight people, there's gonna be tension."
Image Source: Erin Schedler
The reality is that approximately 6 million kids and adults in America have LGBTQ+ parents, and as Chaplow and Reese can affirm, the queer parenting experience is, well, normal. They do chores as a family, garden as a family, go to Little League practice - Chaplow had to take a break from our interview to do just that - and watch television together, though they favor RuPaul's Drag Race. If there's any way they see themselves as special, it's that their focus is on raising their children to be free, respectful thinkers. They hope they model an openness and fluidity by sharing roles as parents and breadwinners while educating their children on subjects like gender-neutral pronouns, feminism, racism, and more.
"They're seeing a level of egalitarianism that doesn't usually exist in straight households."
"I hope that we're modeling liberation," Reese says. "They're seeing a level of egalitarianism that doesn't usually exist in straight households."
Still, there has been a curiosity about what their family experience has been to be examples of how queer parental excellence plays out. Yet they didn't come to sharing their story on Instagram or blogging easily. "We wavered back and forth for some time," Chaplow says. "There have been times where Trystan has been like, 'This is a bad idea. We shouldn't do this anymore,' and there are times when I'm feeling this way."
"Truthfully, some of it was unintentional," Chaplow continues, pointing to the podcast as prompting them to become more public. A lot of this experience has to do with queer respectability politics, of society approving of certain styles of living as minorities, and the need to use that privilege. "The hard truth is that Trystan and I are palatable queers," Chaplow says, referencing the fact that they're both white, middle-class males. "We're not too challenging on face value. It's easier for straight people to look at us and hear our stories. . . . If we have that, we should help push the bounds of what people think of family and gender."
Clockwise from upper left: Biff, Trystan, Hailey, baby Leo, and Riley.Image Source: Kevin Truong
"We saw this as an opportunity to push past the old narratives," Reese adds. "It kind of feels like the acceptance of me as a man is predicated upon me never reminding anyone that I am not cisgender. For a lot of [trans men], they're like any other man, and they don't want to be seen differently. Period. But, for some of us, we are able to or excited about embracing the things that make us unique and different. We think those things make us powerful, and we want to celebrate them."
For people like Chaplow and Reese, to be parents is to redefine parenting - particularly in a society where many queer persons are still told coming out closes the door to that experience. The partners hope people keep pushing forward, to love themselves and each other more - and to spread that love outside of the home. That, they believe, is how you build a successful family.
Image Source: Sunny Lee
"Staying connected to your partner and staying in love with your partner is really important," Reese says. "I prioritize my relationship with him literally over everything else. . . . I make sure Biff knows how incredibly valued he is to me. He needs to know that all the time."
"And ask for help," Reese adds, alluding to communal life instead of the classic American "up by the bootstraps" mantra. "Queers show up for each other. There's no shame in asking for help. There's no shame in needing help! There's no shame in showing up for other people when they need help. That's how we've always survived as marginalized people."
This $30 Rice Cooker (and Steamer) From Amazon Saved Me So Much Time in the Kitchen
After a long day of work, the last thing I want to do when I come home is cook a meal. Although whipping up a healthy dinner may not be my specialty, it doesn't mean I don't need to cook. To make my life easier, I recently bought this Aroma Housewares Digital Rice Cooker and Food Steamer ($30), and now I can't imagine living without it.
Originally, I was just looking for a rice cooker, but when I saw this was also a food steamer, I was instantly sold. I can cook my favorite brown or wild rice in several different serving sizes (depending on the amount of people) because it can prepare anywhere from two to eight cups. Simultaneously, it can also make a batch of freshly steamed vegetables. To add some protein, I can even add meat or fish to complete my dish.
The easy-to-use device comes with a digital program display and it has a 15-hour delay timer so you can prep your meal before work and come home to it ready. It includes a BPA-free steam tray, measuring cup, and serving spatula, all of which are dish-washer safe - making clean up just as simple. So if you're looking to save time on meal prepping or family dinners, give this cooker a try! It comes in both white and stainless steal.
The Best Gifts For 9-Year-Olds in 2018
The 9-year-old on your list is precariously straddling the line between kid and tween. That's why we've rounded up our favorite toys to help them feel like they're making progress - but not leaving the toy world completely behind. From cozy socks that double as slippers to toys that interact with smartphones and gaming devices, here are our favorite picks for 9-year-olds.
- Additional reporting by Rebecca Gruber
Related: The 44 Best Tween Gifts of 2018 Are Here
For even easier shopping, click below for your needs.
21 Family-Friendly Dinners to Make All Summer Long
Summer dining is great. The tastiest fruits and veggies are in season, the weather is perfect for eating outdoors, and mealtime just gets a lot more casual. It's the ideal time to cook for and with your family! Bestow this once-a-year greatness upon your own household with one of these crowd-pleasing dinners: all easy, all seasonal, all delicious. And be sure to eat them outside with a glass of something chilly - you deserve it.
Dill-Flavored Ice Cream Is Here to Make All Your Pregnancy Craving Dreams Come True
When I was pregnant with my son, the one question I got more than any other was about pickles and ice cream. Since those two very different foods are notoriously craved by pregnant women, it makes sense that someone would find a way to deliciously combine them. Enter Little Baby's Ice Cream, an artisanal ice cream parlor in Philadelphia.
Officially titled Cucumber Dill, this incredible flavor is only available when cucumbers are in season and is made both with a superpremium dairy base and its own vegan coconut cream base. Using fresh cucumbers and dill, Little Baby's Ice Cream mastered the sweet and tangy mix, and it also just looks incredibly refreshing. So whether you're suffering from classic pregnancy cravings or just really like to try weird foods, this dessert is definitely for you.
This Family Has Raised $16 Million to Help Reunite Immigrant Families at the Border
Ever since Dave and Charlotte Willner caught wind of the Trump administration's zero-tolerance immigration policy, they've been determined to help the families affected by it. So far, the pair have raised $16 million in five days via a Facebook fundraiser and donated it to the Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAICES), a nonprofit that provides lawyers to immigrants and helps families seeking asylum reunite.
"This is a reminder of the power we have when we all stand together against injustice," Dave told Today. "However, a change in policy doesn't automatically reunite these innocent children with their families or erase the trauma our government inflicted."
According to Today, three families have already been reunited, but the Willners know they still have a long way to go following Donald Trump's decision to sign an executive order stopping his zero-tolerance border control policy that separated families.
"These families will need legal representation, counseling, and other crucial services that RAICES will be able to provide to more people and at a greater and faster scale than ever before because of these funds," said Dave.
Charlotte was inspired to start the fundraiser when she first saw a now-viral photo of a 2-year-old Honduran girl who was seeking asylum crying (pictured below).
"I am a parent - specifically, a mom of a child the same age as the girl . . . When I see her face, I see my own daughter's," she said.
At first, the Willners were hoping to raise a mere $1,500. But thanks to the power of social media, the amount of donations has skyrocketed to $16 million and counting. Given the fundraiser's enormous success, Charlotte and Dave have adjusted their goal to $20 million.
The fundraiser has been so immensely popular that at one point, people were donating between $2,000 and $4,000 per minute. As for the day Trump signed the executive order? Their fundraiser earned $10,000 every four hours. But you don't have to give away your life savings to contribute - the average donation comes in at $38.
Charlotte wants others to know that their voices matter and that positive change is always possible: "In a time when division seems ever-increasing, remember that Americans can still come together to say, 'This is wrong,' and do something about it."
What It's Like Being a Parent When Your Partner Works Crazy Hours
Sometimes I beat myself up for not being the best mom. I wonder how my other mom friends do it - have the time to cook Instagram-worthy meals while being responsible for the kids, feed said meals to said kids, and do bath and bedtime and live to tell the tale. Then I remember . . . most of my mom friends have partners who are home from work for all of the above. My husband, however, works outside the traditional 9-to-5 window.
When I'm getting snippy with our toddler or silently cursing about the baby's unrelenting fussing, I do feel a little sorry for myself. But then I remember I'm not the only one whose partner works crazy hours, and that there are moms who have it much harder than I do (all hail the single parent). But I'm talking about being a unit, one-half of a married couple, one-half of a parenting duo, yet finding myself alone . . . a lot.
Shift work is the culprit here, and many families know how hard it can be to make the schedule of shift work occupations manageable. Nurses, doctors, law enforcement, first responders, transportation workers, security officers, hospitality workers, and so many others all have odd working hours in common. Shifts can be overnight, 17 hours long, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., what have you. If anyone in this type of work is married with children, their partner is usually a one-person team during those hours.
I'm talking about being one-half of a married couple, one-half of a parenting duo, yet finding myself alone . . . a lot.
When my husband and I were dating and living together, the schedule was tough to get used to. I worked a regular job, and I was home for dinner every night. He worked 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. one week, then 4 p.m. to midnight the next week, and that's not counting overtime shifts (which is how a lot of shift workers make most of their money). Doesn't sound too crazy, right? Well, we wouldn't see each other every other week because I would be asleep by the time he got home and he wasn't awake when I left in the morning. And while my weekend was Saturday and Sunday, his could be Tuesday and Wednesday one week and Sunday and Monday the next.
Every other week, I ate dinner by myself every night (but, on the bright side, also had full control of the television remote). There were nights our friends would go out, and I'd either go by myself or not at all because he'd be at work. Everyone got used to me coming to functions and holidays celebrations alone, and I started seamlessly living the life of a single, taken person.
While I generally didn't mind it, I did wonder what it would all mean when we had kids. Would he miss soccer games and ballet recitals? Would he be able to help with homework or attend a science fair? Would I feel alone in parenting? The answer to all of those questions is yes and no. He often misses seeing our daughter for more than a day or two because he'll get home from work once she's at school, then be asleep or back at work when she gets home. But on his days off, he takes her out for daddy-daughter dates, he spends time with the baby, and we all sit down for dinner together. He tries his best to be around for important things by switching his shifts for birthday parties and holidays the kids will remember. He does the best he can, and so do I.
But I, like my friends who are also married to shift workers, can't help but long for the routine of Daddy coming home for dinner, us putting the kids down together, and enjoying a full weekend of family time. I'm always so thankful that he works so hard for our family, and I've accepted our version of traditional family time. Would I like him around when I'm wrangling two slippery kids in the tub? Yes. Would he probably be better at calmly reading bedtime stories? I think so. But it makes the time we do manage to spend together that much more meaningful. And isn't that what marriage and families should be about? A bunch of meaningful moments that, when combined, make up your family story? Because no matter how different the chapters are each week, I really love our story.
My Son Is Nothing Like Me, and It Kills Me Sometimes
I realized pretty early on that my oldest child was nothing like me. There was the time we were at his friend's second birthday party and he nervously gripped my leg while the other kids ran straight to interact with the clown. In retrospect, I get it (clowns are creepy), but rather than empathize with my son about it, I tried to convince him to be social. When he didn't budge, a wave of anger washed over me because I was annoyed that he didn't want to join in.
There was also the time when he got to the final round of a modeling callback for a kids' clothing brand, and the audition ended with me yelling at him for "not even trying." We both ended up crying on that busy street in Manhattan, mainly because I couldn't believe I made my poor son go through that audition. I hated that he was crying because I made him feel bad, and, oh, because I yelled at him in a waiting room full of strangers. That was a low point for me. I looked at his tear-streaked red face through my equally tear-streaked red face (plus mascara) and vowed I would never do that to him again. But a part of me also thought, "How is this my child? Aren't these things supposed to be fun?"
It's taken me almost four years to really appreciate my son for who he is. Is it bad that it's taken me this long to figure that out?
You see, growing up, I was that person who was the first to try everything and had no fear about other people's judgments. I was the first person in my freshman class to raise their hand for the pep rally pie-eating contest. I tried out for every musical even though I had a horrible singing voice. Long story short, I can talk to a wall whether the wall likes it or not. My best friend still jokes to this day, "I've been trying to break down your Iron Curtain of self-esteem since the late '90s." I just assumed my kid would be the same way, but where did I get this narrative that, because I bore my son, he should be like me? And by that I mean ONLY the good stuff? I knew I had to change my own narrative unless I wanted to be the star role in his future therapy sessions.
So, I started looking at him differently. Rather than get frustrated when he wouldn't go down the "big kid" slide, I noticed how he stood at the bottom and cheered ecstatically for his friends who whipped down it. When I used to get frustrated that he would hang back from a birthday party dance circle, I now noticed how much he enjoyed observing and paying close attention to what the entertainer was saying.
I now have two kids, and my son is the big brother that little brothers dream of. He has so much kindness and empathy toward other kids and adults. I've learned he's full of so much self-assurance that he doesn't need to be the center of attention or the kid that's first to start the dance party. He doesn't want to be. That's not who he is, and he's more than happy to let his buddies take the lead. He has a quiet confidence that speaks loudly, and I genuinely find myself learning how to act in certain situations from him.
It's taken me almost four years to really appreciate my son for who he is. I realized my main job is to cultivate, guide, support, and love him just as he is and for who he wants to be. Is it bad that it's taken me this long to figure that out? Probably.
My younger son is basically my mini me. He's feral, loud, random, funny, and so annoying that it just circles back to being charming (See? Me.), but I am no more fulfilled with having someone who is much more "my child." Yes, it's easier to relate at times, but I also love learning from someone so different. Both of my sons teach me so much, and I have so much left to learn.
Editor's note: This piece was written by a POPSUGAR contributor and does not necessarily reflect the views of POPSUGAR Inc. Interested in joining our POPSUGAR Voices network of contributors from around the globe? Click here.
11 Supersimple Ways to Make Your Home Smell So Fresh and So Clean
Have you ever come home from a long day of work, stepped through your door, and noticed that your home smells a little musty? Between lingering food smells from the kitchen, damp towels in the bathroom, and other day-to-day activities, there are lots of things that contribute to your home smelling a little less than fresh. It happens to the best of us, but luckily it's an easy fix! DIY air fresheners, houseplants aplenty, and some essential cleaning tips are some of our favorite ways to get a fresh home that smells amazing.
These Lightweight Carry-Ons Will Make Traveling a Breeze This Summer
No one wants to be the overpacker who is stuck lugging a heavy suitcase through the airport. It's easier said than done, but packing light is totally possible. Editing your wardrobe and rolling things into perfect tube shapes to maximize space takes some practice, but once you have these hacks down, you're ready to roll. All you need is a lightweight carry-on. We rounded up a list of our favorites, so all you have to do is shop. Find your perfect match ahead.
11 Hilarious Cat Caves That Look So Comfy, We Wish They Came in Our Size
Spoiling my cat is the total norm these days. In the past, no matter how comfy of a bed I bought, they never seemed to stick until I discovered these comfortable pet caves. These warm and cozy beds feel more like being wrapped in a burrito, so we can see why it's hard to leave. So if you want to treat your feline, we rounded up a list of our favorites. From fish- and mice-inspired picks to even a teepee, you'll love these hilarious finds.
11 Modifications You Didn't Know You Could Make at Starbucks
Whether you're more of an iced-coffee or grande-nonfat-mocha-no-whip type of Starbucks customer, there are easy ways to customize your drink to match your preference. While you might not find these modifications on the menu, that doesn't mean you can't make them at the register. Here's what to keep in mind the next time you find yourself in line at Starbucks and want a drink that's specifically tailored to your needs.
- Ask for light ice.
Not enough liquid and too much ice in your drink? Ask for light ice next time and you'll get more of the drink itself. - Order your latte extra hot.
Ever feel like your hot coffee is cold by the time you get to the office? You can order your latte "extra hot" at the register, and the barista will steam the milk longer to increase the temperature. - Specify unsweetened.
Certain Starbucks drinks are sneakily sweetened, including the iced coffee, iced teas, and the Green Tea Latte. For example, Starbucks's matcha powder contains sugar, and the Green Tea Latte typically has more sugar added to it. The iced coffee already comes with two pumps of Classic, aka simple syrup, so if you order it with two pumps, you're actually getting four. The default for a tall iced tea drink is three pumps of classic. If you'd rather have unsweetened drinks, be sure to specify that when you order. - Customize your milk preference.
ICYMI, Starbucks has almond milk and coconut milk! There's also soy milk as another dairy-free option. Starbucks uses 2 percent milk in all drinks unless you specify otherwise, so speak up if you want whole milk, nonfat, or plant-based milk. - Order a tall coffee in a grande cup.
Certain baristas might discourage this, but it's a common thing to order. To avoid wasting coffee by pouring out enough for milk, just order a smaller size coffee in a cup the next size up. This will give you more space than asking for "room." - Order the "short" size.
Did you know a size smaller than the tall exists at Starbucks? While not listed on most menus, there is a size called the short, which is eight ounces and costs $2 for a drip coffee. - Ask for no water for a stronger tea flavor.
Starbucks adds water to the cup of any iced tea drink to dilute it, so ask for no water if you want a stronger flavor. - Ask for an extra shot.
Tall lattes come with one shot of espresso, grande espresso drinks come with two, and venti drinks come with two (hot) or three (iced). If it's just one of those days and you need an extra boost of caffeine, you can add another shot to any drink for 60 cents. - Specify the number of syrup pumps.
When you order any drink that comes with a syrup flavor, a tall will have three, a grande will have four, and a venti will have five or six, depending on hot or iced, respectively. You can either add more for no extra cost or ask for fewer pumps if you want it less sweet. - Ask for a different kind of sweetener.
You can ask for syrups, sugar, raw sugar, honey, Sweet and Low, Equal, or Splenda in any drink. You can also inquire about the sugar-free syrup options, like raspberry and vanilla, as well as the seasonal syrup options like peppermint. - Order hot tea over ice.
If you're in the mood for a green tea or herbal tea but would rather have it cold than hot, you can ask for it served on ice. The barista will steep the tea and pour it in a plastic cup filled with ice, which takes about five minutes.
The 16 Best Italian Foods You Can Get at Trader Joe's
Trader Joe's has some of the best hidden gems among its stocked aisles, including amazing Italian foods that rival products from artisanal markets. I take Italian food very seriously - garlicky pasta for life - and I swear by a handful of Trader Giotto's cheeses, pastas, and dried goods, not only for their quality but also for their price. Plenty of POPSUGAR editors agree with me, so I've crowdsourced all of our must-have Italian foods from Trader Joe's that you'll want to pick up when you've got plans for a wine and cheese night or you need a quick pasta dinner. Whether you're more of a gnocchi kind of girl or you live for the perfect frozen pizza, we've got you covered.
14 Grocery Staples I Always Have as a 20-Something on a Budget
As a 25-year-old who has just started out in the professional world, I know how hard it can be to get your life together. You're supposed to find a job, live on your own, cook for yourself, and find the time to exercise, which, unfortunately, I don't think includes walking to the kitchen for snack breaks in between TV episodes. When you have so much going on - especially when you're on a budget - one thing that some people dread is grocery shopping. I personally love it, but it took a little practice to figure out a routine and a grocery list that worked for me. As someone who loves to cook, there are certain things I like to have on hand all the time. These are 14 budget-approved staples I always have stocked in my kitchen.
20 Hassle-Free 1-Pot and -Pan Recipes For Summer
Summertime, and the livin' is easy . . . thanks to these one-pot and -pan recipes. You can spend less time doing dishes and more time enjoying Summer with these warm-weather meals starring tomatoes, seafood, basil, and more seasonal ingredients. You'll want to whip up one of these immediately, followed by an equally easy no-bake dessert.
8 Grocery Store Policies You Should Be Taking Advantage Of
Grocery shopping on a budget isn't always fun, but these store policies make it easier. Did you know that your favorite stores like Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and Costco have company-wide rules that will help you save money? Before you head out for your next grocery shopping spree, read ahead for eight of the best store policies you can (and should) take advantage of, from return policies to coupon-filled apps.
Run, Don't Walk - Trader Joe's Is Now Carrying Cotton Candy Grapes!
If you were worried about missing out on the cotton candy grapes craze because you don't have a Costco card, forget it - because Trader Joe's has your back! The grocery chain has its own version of the uniquely flavored fruit, and believe me . . . you'll want to pick up some for yourself on your next trip to the store.
Cotton candy grapes are, of course, exactly what they sound like: fresh grapes that taste, unmistakably, of supersweet cotton candy. What's not to love? They're perfect for picnicking, munching on during a movie, or packing as a sweet lunchbox surprise. So if you've got a sweet tooth, don't miss out - take a hint from these happy Trader Joe's shoppers and go find some, ASAP!
22 Recipes Meant For Anyone Obsessed With Garlic
If you believe that garlic makes anything savory better, these recipes are for you. None of these pastas, soups, or entrees skimp on the garlic or the flavor. From garlicky pastas to garlic-butter shrimp, you're sure to find a recipe you'll want to make for dinner ASAP.
4 Crucial Lessons Minimalism Has Taught Me
When I graduated university and came back to the room I grew up in, I realized I had the massive job of cleaning ahead of me. I've always been quite a messy person and I used to hate cleaning. I had huge collections of perfume samples, mini shampoos, pencils, and scrap paper.
As I stood there, barely able to walk into my room, I remembered a documentary I watched on Netflix last year about minimalism. I really liked the ideas when I watched it, but didn't make the effort to apply them at the time. So I put it on again to get some motivation.
After watching about 20 minutes, I got kind of excited to start cleaning. I put on some headphones and let the audio keep playing as I started to clean up my closet. I found this very motivational, so as I continued to clean through the week, I would listen to different YouTube videos and audiobooks about minimalism.
I'm far from being a minimalist, but the simple techniques I've learned so far have already improved my outlook on cleaning (and life) so much. It's really about simplifying life and prioritizing happiness.
Here are the most useful tips I've learned:
- For every object you own, ask yourself, "Does this bring me joy?" If the answer is no, then donate or throw away the item. If the answer is yes, but you don't have any room for it, thank the item for the good times and then say goodbye. As stupid as this sounds, it actually works! Obviously, if the item brings you lots of joy and you have space for it, then keep it! This is a tip from minimalism master Marie Kondo.
- Start by letting go of the things that you have the least amount of emotional attachment to (the closet is a good place to start).
- If you're having trouble letting go of an item that you love but don't use, think about how it could be enjoyed by someone else rather than sitting alone, all sad and dusty in your closet.
- Enjoy the process of seeing immediate results as you clean!
As I kept cleaning, I started to realize that physical baggage was also emotional baggage. I realized how I was literally going through my past, deciding which memories to keep and which ones to let go of. It was also a time for self-reflection. In my past objects and clothing, I could see who I once was - how I've changed and what's remained the same. In this way, cleaning is fun; you rediscover treasures, learn about yourself, and clear your mind. And really, our environment is just a reflection of our mind - after all, we do create the spaces around us. Minimalism isn't about owning nothing; it is about reflecting on each item you own and its effect on your state of mind.
If you allow it, the principles of minimalism expand far beyond keeping your room clean into every aspect of life. The question "Does this bring me joy?" is so important not only for tidying up, but for everything we do.
Don't Waste Any More Time - Experience These Amazing Adventures Right Now
Life's short, so don't waste any time checking things off your bucket list. There are so many amazing experiences that everyone should have at least once, and now is your chance to start a new adventure.
10 Kitchen Organization Tips to Steal From Chip and Joanna Gaines
Not everyone is lucky enough to get a Fixer Upper home makeover from Chip and Joanna Gaines, but what everyone can do is steal a few tips from the experts themselves. If anyone knows how to create an organized kitchen, it's Joanna Gaines, and she often shares behind-the-scenes snaps of her home life and HGTV projects with her millions of fans on Instagram. Plus, Joanna is soon to be a mom of five children, so she knows a thing or two about keeping clutter in check! With the following organization ideas in mind, you can create a clean and inspiring kitchen space that's both Gaines family- and Marie Kondo-approved.
Whether You Want to Hike or Relax, Here Are 50 States of Beautiful Beaches
When I go to the beach, it's to relax and get some sun. When some of my friends go to the beach, it's to grab a kayak and get out on the water. Everyone has their different agendas when they hit the beach, so it's a good thing the US has plenty of options for providing a whole host of activities. This selection of the best beaches in every state doesn't necessarily include all relaxing beaches or all beaches filled with adventure, but each one has something great about it that makes it worth visiting. Next time you hit the road for vacation, consider making a stop at one of these beautiful locations.
Princess Eugenie Wore a Royal Favorite to Royal Ascot - but We're Distracted by That Hat
Princess Eugenie and her sister Princess Beatrice made their second trip to Royal Ascot on Thursday, for the event's annual "Ladies' Day." Traditionally, this is the day when female guests pull out all the stops when it comes to their outfits, with a specific focus on millinery. Of course, Eugenie is no stranger to a statement hat. This time around, she turned to Edinburgh-based Sally-Ann Provan, wearing the designer's Naeva boater hat, which was perfectly matched to her floral Erdem dress. The black and white design featured a floating brim that stood out from the rest of the hat, draped in white flowers to match those on her dress.
The dress itself was a knee-length floral design with a high ruffled neck and long sleeves, a silhouette the princess is very familiar with. This particular dress is currently on sale (though it'll still set you back over $1,000). The hemline was quite risky for Royal Ascot, when most royals opt to keep their dresses below the knee. However, Eugenie's got a bit of a history with Erdem's pretty knee-length floral dresses, and she clearly knows they work for her: she wore one in her engagement photos, after all! Keep reading to take a closer look at her Ladies' Day outfit, then shop the look for yourself.
10 Cute and Comfortable Bras You Won't Believe We Found on Amazon - Starting at $6
Shopping for a new bra is one of those tasks we often put off. If you're looking for a more seamless experience, try browsing on Amazon, because the mega retailer has so many options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a sexy lace pick or a comfortable cami, we found it all. The best part is they're delivered right to your doorstep and cost less than $30. Shop these affordable finds.
Gigi Hadid Waltzed Back Onto the Bikinigram Scene in the Cheekiest 2-Piece Known to Man
It's been AGES since Gigi Hadid graced us with an envy-inducing bikini picture on Instagram, and we're delighted to announce that she's back in action, just in time for Summer. The model enjoyed a pre-photo-shoot day off by wading through the waters sporting the cheekiest darn bikini we've ever laid eyes on. I mean, seriously - if you look up the word "cheeky" in the dictionary, you just might see Gigi's very bikinigram printed on the page. It's borderline thong territory, and hot damn . . . we're obsessed.
Besides the fact that her two-piece shows off her derrière in all its glory, it also features a pretty snazzy orange-and-blue pattern that screams, "I'm ready for Summer!" Ahead, catch a close-up glimpse of Gigi's sexy suit, and then shop similar styles for yourself if you're looking to tan parts of your backside that you never thought would see the light of day.
It's All About Kim Kardashian's Blue Minidress - Unless You Happen to Spot Her Insane Shoes
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West joined Travis Scott, Kylie Jenner, and Kylie's BFF Jordyn Woods in the front row at the Louis Vuitton menswear show in Paris. Even though Rihanna was there, standing by in straight-off-the-runway suiting from Virgil Abloh, it's safe to say Kim's electric minidress drew focus from the crowds.
Kim's blue cargo number, likely a custom piece from the new Yeezy collection, was a stark contrast to her dark accessories: spandex biker shorts, Alpina shield sunglasses, and her cell phone, a treasured item. But while the mini provided structure, Kim's single toe loop sandals made us shaky just looking at them.
Of course, from PVC mules to thin, wraparound snakeskin stilettos, there's not much the star hasn't pulled off with confidence. Ahead, get an all-angles view of her striking a pose with her husband ahead of the show, then pick up a pair of daring heels to make 'em all look twice.
25 Pairs of Strappy Sandals That You Can Wear Everywhere This Summer
Strappy sandals are a warm weather staple for a reason. The versatile shoe can be mixed and matched with pretty much everything else in your Summer wardrobe. They also pair perfectly with all the flirty frocks hanging in your closet, but also look just as stylish when worn with a simple tee and your favorite pair of jeans.
While the sleek footwear may be a perennial favorite, this season's styles have been given a modern upgrade thanks to multicolored straps, unexpected materials, and sleek embellishments. Whether you prefer lace-up flats or multi-buckled platforms, we've found 25 pairs of strappy sandals so stylish, they'll be your go-to shoe all Summer long.
Get Ready to Dance the Night Away in These Insanely Comfortable High Heels
Whether you've had to carry a spare pair of flats in your bag to change into, or had to sit out one of your favorite songs because your feet couldn't take dancing anymore, we've all been inconvenienced by pain and suffering that comes along with high heels. Thankfully, many designers have realized that women don't want to choose between fashion and function and have been producing high heels that are actually comfortable.
The key to finding painless footwear is to look for options with features like added padding, block heels, and extra support. From silhouettes designed by former podiatrists to the shoes with the best customer reviews, we've scoured the web to find heels that are not only chic, but are comfy enough to stand in all night long. Click through to shop 15 of the most comfortable pairs of high heels in stores now.
Melania Trump Wore a Highly Insensitive Jacket While Visiting the Border, and *Deep Sigh*
Melania Trump is certainly no stranger to stirring up controversy with her outfit choices. The first lady famously wore sky-high stilettos while visiting Hurricane Harvey victims last year, the internet still hasn't forgiven her for sporting a $1,380 Balmain shirt to a hands-on gardening event at the White House, and who could forget the time she wore a bright-pink pussy-bow blouse just days after footage surfaced of her husband instructing Billy Bush to "grab" women by that very private body part?
The FLOTUS's latest style move, however, might just take the number one spot as her most questionable one to date. On June 21, Melania made a surprise trip to Texas to visit facilities that house migrant children following a firestorm of backlash to Trump's inhumane migrant family separation policy. While boarding the plane to head toward the US-Mexican border, she wore a white long-sleeved shirt, white jeans, and Adidas sneakers, finishing the look with the tone-deaf pièce de résistance: a green parka that read "I Really Don't Care, Do U?" in enormous white lettering on the back. Yup, you read that correctly, folks. Appalling is an understatement.
The hooded Zara jacket, which is no longer available for purchase on the retailer's website, seemed to send a loud-and-clear message as the first lady boarded the plane with cameras right there to capture the moment. Thankfully, she did swap out the distasteful outerwear for a blush-pink number once she touched down in Texas, but it was too late: the internet already took note and started expressing outrage over the insensitive move.
Melania's spokesperson, Stephanie Grisham, soon after responded to said outrage on Twitter, writing, "If media would spend their time & energy on her actions & efforts to help kids - rather than speculate & focus on her wardrobe - we could get so much accomplished on behalf of children. #SheCares #ItsJustAJacket." Ahead, see Melania's green jacket in action, followed by a handful of Twitter reactions.
When Blake Lively Steps on the Red Carpet, You Know Every Photographer Will Scream Her Name
Blake Lively doesn't use a stylist, and honestly, she doesn't need one. Of course, after starring on the hit series Gossip Girl, Blake likely picked up a fashion tip or two. The star's been hitting the red carpet since the early 2000s and has an eye for designer gowns.
Blake has worn creations from fashion houses such as Chanel, Dior, Versace, and Gucci, and shows no signs of slowing down. When it comes to jewels, she usually relies on Lorraine Schwartz. (The jeweler even designed Blake's engagement ring.) No matter what the actress wears, you can expect the paparazzi to go into a frenzy over her amazing outfits. And best of all, she can say she picked them out herself. See all her best red carpet moments ahead.
Victoria Beckham's Pepto Bismol Pink Dress Is JUST What the Doctor Ordered
Victoria Beckham's NYC agenda included an appearance at the Forbes Women's Summit, where it's safe to say she made an impression in this bright pink dress ($794). Victoria must've worked the room in the look from her own collection, which she coordinated with her Dorothy pumps in teal ($680) and her signature Céline visor top sunglasses.
If millennial pink was already a go-to for you, allow Victoria to lead you off the beaten path toward a shade that's as close to a Pepto Bismol bottle as you can possibly get - but also, in our opinion, incredibly chic. Work a design as standout as this one with equally bold shoes in a slightly darker tone, and don't even worry about accessories. If you want to get loud and proud this Summer, Victoria's dress is your microphone.
11 Perfect Summer Shoes You Won't Believe We Found on Sale - All From Nordstrom
We're not sure there's any better feeling out there than scoring a killer deal on the shoes you've been eyeing. Even though it just started getting hot, we already found a Summer shoe sale worth searching. Nordstrom just dropped the prices on a number of its most popular pairs, and we are so here for that. From brands like Tory Burch and Miu Miu to Loeffler Randall and Marc Fisher, you won't be disappointed. You don't have to waste your time searching the site either, because we rounded up the best finds. Keep reading to find the pair you'll wear all season long.
9 Sexy Two-Piece Outfits That Will Put Your Dresses to Shame - All Under $20
If thought you could never love anything more than a pretty Summer dress, we have news for you. This season, we've been seeing cute two-piece outfits everywhere, and we're ready to treat ourselves to one. You don't need to overspend on this flattering trend either, because we looked to Amazon and unearthed so many cute finds, it will be hard to choose just one. Whether you're looking for something gingham or floral print, it's all here. What could make it even better? Everything is under $20, so you can get them all! Keep scrolling to shop our favorite finds.
10 Out of 10 Ladies Will Scoop Up Selena Gomez's Floral Maxi as Soon as They See It
Selena Gomez is about to pull a Kate Middleton and sell out a floral wrap dress - fast. The $250 Ganni design is marked down to $150 at Net-a-Porter, and we probably don't even need to tell you why you need it. Selena wore it in Rome, where she also sported an incredibly romantic crop top, but this effortless piece could make a statement anywhere in the world. Selena gave it her signature spin, accessorizing with go-to basics like her Tod's platform loafers, a $26 Silk Laundry scrunchie, and a chunky anklet, which she slips on often.
Small gold hoops and her cross pendant lent Selena glow as she walked through the streets. Ahead, zoom in on this must-have maxi of the moment, then shop it for yourself, along with plenty of similar options if you're either picky or so superobsessed you want to collect more than one. With Ganni on our radar as one of the hottest new fashion brands, you've got no reason not to secure Selena's exact number right off the bat.
10 Cute Weekender Bags That Will Make You Say, "When the Heck is My Next Vacation?"
If you're tired of traveling around with that old oversize tote you've had for too long, invest in a new, useful weekender you'll actually enjoy using. These conveniently sized bags are perfect for just a few nights away, or you can pair them with your suitcase on your next long-distance flight by placing them on the top of your rollerbag. So whether you're taking it for one night away or 10, we have no doubt you'll enjoy packing in these stylish picks.
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