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 5 octobre 2018
Your Favorite Home Cook Needs One of These Fun Gifts
As much fun as it is to go out to eat, home-cooked meals are usually our favorites. For the heroes in our lives, aka the awesome chefs, you want to get them something they'll love for the kitchen. These are the perfect presents for your resident Wolfgang Puck or Rachael Ray. Plus, if you give them something from this list, they'll probably be inspired to cook. Everybody wins!
21 Cool Tech Gifts Anyone Would Be Thrilled to Receive This Holiday Season
When it comes to rising gift trends, we're seeing a big focus on tech products that will make your life easier. Whether that means giving you time back in your day or keeping things all in one place, products are being designed to make the user's day better. We curated a list of the most gift-worthy releases anyone on your list would be excited to get for the holidays. Shop through these genius gadgets.
The 17 Funniest Gifts of 2018 Will Make You Laugh So Hard, Your Stomach Will Hurt
If you're looking for presents for the friend who isn't afraid to get silly, we've found the perfect stuff. Whether you are headed to a white elephant party or just want to treat a loved one to something hilarious, we've got you covered. Keep looking to see these hysterical gift ideas for your comical pal.
FYI, Amazon Has a Section Filled With Disney Halloween Goodies!
Do you love Disney? Do you love Halloween? If so, you'll need to have a seat, because we have some excellent news. We just discovered that Amazon offers all sorts of cool Disney Halloween products. Whether you need decor or something to wear, it truly has it all. We rounded up the best options you need to check out, so shop through them all and get ready for the best holiday of the year!
Once You Start Pressing This Bubble Wrap iPhone Case, You'll Never Be Able to Stop
What is it that makes bubble wrap so satisfying? Besides being a fun activity, popping those little pockets of air can also be very calming. It's an excellent activity for anxious people. That's why we were so excited to discover this Bubble Pop iPhone 8/7/6/6s Case ($24) - it's a genius invention.
The case mimics the texture and feeling of bubble wrap, except you can use it over and over again. So whether you need an effortless pastime or you want to put your mind at ease, this tech accessory will come in handy. Treat yourself to it now before it goes out of stock. You will be oh-so satisfied.
22 Plants From Amazon That Will Clean the Air in Your Home
For many of us, it's important to make sure our homes are clean for a number of reasons, not least of which is to keep ourselves healthy. Regular cleaning tasks like dusting and vacuuming are great for keeping allergies at bay, but what about those damaging particles you can't see? Due to the furniture we buy and air pollutants that get in from outside, your home's air can be full of harsh chemicals and pollutants like formaldehyde, mold, and even car exhaust fumes. While these are almost unavoidable to some degree, the good news is that you don't have to purchase an expensive air purifier to start cleansing the air in your home! Instead, try filling your home with beautiful plants - think of them as nature's air purifiers. And because you can find them on Amazon, all it takes is the click of a button.
Ruff Day? Slip On These Heat-Up Corgi Slippers For Toasty-Warm Feet!
Holy puppy heaven! Our cozy, couch-potato dreams just came true. Urban Outfitters released these adorable Smoko Corgi Heated Slipper ($35), and we're downright obsessed. Not only are they cute, but they're incredibly useful for the Winter months ahead.
All you have to do is plug them into a USB computer port or wall adapter to turn on the heat. Once they're toasty, unplug them and enjoy for up to an hour. These slippers only come in one size, but they fit women who wear up to a 12 in shoes. The design is super soft and plush, so it practically feels like you're walking on clouds when you slide these adorable doggies onto your feet.
Whether you're gifting these little Corgis to a friend or just treating yourself, someone is going to be quite happy. Get them before they totally sell out!
57 Cheap and Original DIY Couples Halloween Costumes
The best part of any holiday (besides the food) is dressing up. Whether it's Fourth of July or New Year's Eve, putting together the right outfit is key to starting the celebration, and no other holiday calls for outrageous and funny costumes like Halloween. For this trick-or-treat celebration, these 57 DIY couples' costumes are not only effortless to make but also up your outfit creativity level. If you're planning to dress up with your partner but have no idea where to start, just get some sweet (or scary) inspiration now! You guys can make the outfits together and then stun the crowd at your Halloween bash.
Thinking About Adopting a Dog? Here's Why You Should Do It ASAP
Although it's painful to think about, the harsh reality is that not every pet owner necessarily takes care of their dog properly. Despite the fact that some of us shower our pooches with love (and sometimes ridiculous presents), animal shelters exist for a reason - there are millions of unwanted dogs in the US that have to call these places home. Thankfully, the month of October has been officially dubbed Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, so if getting a pup has crossed your mind, now is the time to strike. Thinking about adding a new member to your family? Scroll through to learn how you can help.
These 16 Uncommon Gifts Will Have Everyone Saying, "Where'd You Find That?!"
Gift-giving is equal parts exciting and stressful. While it's fun to find that perfect present, the actual shopping can feel draining and discouraging - until now. We've scoured the internet to find the best unique gifts. You know, the ones they'll remember getting and actually want to use. This season, take the gift-giving crown with these cool finds.
Trick or Treat! 30 Must-Shop Pieces From Target's Halloween Collection
Our Halloween planning has been happening for months. True devotees of the holiday know it's never too early to get ready, and we are freaking out over the spooky stuff from Target's Halloween decor collection. Whether you want something orange and cheerful or dark and brooding, the store has you covered. It's time to stock up on skulls, pumpkins, and bats galore!
Related: JoAnn Stores Are Already Fully Decked Out For Halloween, So I Guess Summer Is Over?
Disney's Halloween High Tea Service Is Themed After Its Most Memorable Villains
When you think of high tea, you probably envision a group of people in their Sunday best sipping tea with their pinkies out and eating finger sandwiches from fancy plates. But this Halloween at Disneyland, things have taken a very dark (and dangerously clever) turn with an all-new villain-themed high tea service. Available beginning on Sept. 7 at Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel, this limited-edition activity is certainly worth booking in advance.
Disney drew inspiration from some its its best - or worst? - villains and created an entire spread that pays homage to them. Maleficent's "horns" make an appearance on the menu in the form of ruby red microgreens atop edamame-avocado smash on pumpernickel bread. The Lion King's Scar is a red pepper hummus-smeared sandwich that stands tall over the others, acting as an edible version of Pride Rock. Half the fun of making your way through each item is deciphering the connection to the character; the Disney food experts who created the menu left no detail unnoticed.
This time last year, Steakhouse 55 had a special high tea service, but it was just a general Halloween theme. This year's villain theme heightens the experience even more, and it's a not-so-scary way to celebrate the season with your friends. Take a look at the details ahead, and plan on stopping by while it's on the menu from Friday through Sunday (from noon until 3 p.m.) until Oct. 31.
Recall Alert! 6.5 Million Pounds of Beef Could Be Contaminated With Salmonella
Check your refrigerators and freezers, folks, because a whopping 6.5 million pounds of beef have been recalled due to a possible salmonella outbreak, according to the US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service. The potentially contaminated items, which have been described as "various raw, non-intact beef products" (yes, that includes ground beef), were supplied by Arizona-based meat producer JBS Tolleson.
The products in question were packaged between July 26 and Sept. 7 of this year and shipped nationwide, bearing the establishment number "EST. 267" inside the USDA mark of inspection label. They were sold under the following brand names: Cedar River Farms Natural, Comnor Perfect Choice, Gourmet Burger, Grass Run Farms Natural, JBS Generic, Showcase, and Showcase/Walmart. A comprehensive list of the recalled items, including their product codes, case codes, and distribution areas, can be found on the FSIS website.
Between Aug. 5 and Sept. 6, there were 57 cases of salmonella illness across 16 states linked to the outbreak. The bacterial illness typically causes symptoms like diarrhea, chills, abdominal pain, and fever anywhere from 12 to 72 hours after the food in question was consumed. These symptoms can last between four and seven days.
"FSIS is concerned that some product may be frozen and in consumers' freezers," the agency said while officially announcing the recall. "Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase."
These Adorable Panda Hand Warmers Will Make Typing So Cozy (and Cute!)
I'm pretty much cold year-round, but the second Fall hits I'm freezing, especially at the office. I often use my morning coffee as a hand warmer, but it doesn't last for long. Recently, I've been seeing a ton of cool warming products on the internet that have spiked my interest - but nothing's grabbed my attention quite like these Smoko Panda USB Handwarmers ($35). I'm completely sold because they're cute, heated, and soft.
If you can relate to having ice-cold hands, what are you waiting for? Don't spend the upcoming season trying to type with frozen fingers. This easy-to-wear pair features velcro straps so you can adjust them to your perfect size. They even have heat settings so you can find the right temperature. Need more convincing? They're only $35. That's cheaper than the next 10 coffees you'll buy. Keep scrolling to see why they're worth it.
I Tried the Internet's Favorite Pillow - It Gave Me the Best Damn Sleep I've Had in Months
I have always been a terrible sleeper. I'm a night owl, I'm generally anxious, and I constantly wake up in the middle of the night. I've tried everything from sound machines to melatonin, but I never uncovered anything particularly effective for me. Not until I put my head on the Casper Pillow ($65), that is.
No exaggeration, this pillow has been a total game changer for me. Who knew such a simple switch could finally be the key to good rest? The first night I used it, I had zero expectations. The next morning, I woke up shocked - I had slept through the night without a single disturbance. I thought it was just a fluke, but night after night, I was sleeping soundly and feeling energized the next day. I was even naturally waking up earlier.
The next morning, I woke up shocked - I had slept through the night without a single disturbance.
So what makes this pillow so special? It's made with two layers of fabric, so it adapts to your movement throughout the night.
"Its pillow-in-pillow design wraps an internal supportive pillow in an outer layer of fluff that stays evenly distributed in any position," the brand explains. It feels like a fluffy hotel pillow to me - it allows my head to sink in without being too soft or too firm. I love it so much, I'm considering getting a few more.
If you have sleep problems, it truly could be as simple as what you're lying on. Give this little puff of heaven a try for yourself.
Nothing Says Fall Like a Weekend in a Cozy Barn, So Book 1 of These!
Fall is here and with the change of seasons comes cool, crisp air and the desire to snuggle up with your family, your significant other, or even your pet. Fall is also one of the best times to travel - it's not too hot, you won't run into crowds, and seriously, it's a great way to decompress from Summer before gearing up for the holiday season.
What could be more fun than to fuel your wanderlust with a Fall getaway? How about a Fall getaway in a barn? Yeah, we agree.
There are barns all around the country that can be rented for couples, families, and friends. Authentic, fun, and exciting, some of them are located near cute little towns that have shopping, restaurants, and other attractions, while others are completely secluded for a few days of bonding.
Take in the smells of the season and the foliage and enjoy the really unique experience that can be either hardcore Instagrammed or kept as cozy and quiet as these barns are.
6 of the Coziest - and LARGEST - Bean Bag Chairs, Because You Deserve This
Why go through the trouble of finding the perfect blanket to go with the perfect couch, in order to create the perfect chill situation, when you can invest in a dynamic piece that does double duty, like an oversize bean bag chair large enough to fit the entire family? They're cozy, and just waiting for you to nose-dive into one and hit the snooze button. So mark off some time in the calendar, because it's time for you to nap.
Swarovski Just Dropped a Disney Line, and Where Did I Put My Credit Card?
When it comes to Disney merch, there's no such thing as too much, particularly in the jewelry department. And while we admit to being absolute suckers for anything princess- or villain-related, there's nothing wrong with giving a nod to the classics every once in a while. Got a soft spot for anything with mouse ears? Then you're in luck, because Swarovski just released a brand-new line of Mickey- and Minnie-inspired jewelry, and like any diehard Disney fan, we want every single piece. Scroll through to get a look at what the line has to offer - from bracelets to earrings - and try not to snatch up every single piece.
I Took My Kids on an RV Trip - Here Are 5 Things You Should Know Before Planning Your Own
Last weekend, my husband finally convinced me to take our kids camping. He's always loved every aspect of spending a weekend in the great outdoors; I prefer visiting nature during the day, then returning home to my own bed, where two closed doors and several dozen feet separate me and our sleeping children. Our compromise? We'd rent an RV (we found ours through Outdoorsy), bringing our own bathroom, refrigerator, microwave, television, and electricity to a campsite a few hours from home. Also coming along? Our two kids, ages 4 and 7, and our 15-week-old puppy. What could go wrong?
More than we expected, as it turns out (we won't talk about the tow truck we had to call when we made a wrong turn out of the campsite and landed our front right wheel in a ditch). Camping, even when you're bringing along the equivalent of a tiny apartment on wheels, requires a lot of work: before, during, and after your trip. I definitely didn't leave the experience a camping enthusiast, but I did learn a lot from our family adventure, including just how many of my mom friends were also interested in planning an RV trip for their own families. Everyone from my fanciest girlfriends to my most outdoorsy ones seemed intrigued. If you are, too, here's what you need to know before you brave the elements on your own RV camping trip.
There's a Rosé Just For the Winter Months, and Thank God We Don't Have to Start Drinking Water Now
If it breaks your heart every Fall to place your Whispering Angel in the back of the fridge to make room for mulled ciders and the like, we may be able to help you frame the way you drink your Rosé. While the crispy sweetness traditionally makes it a warm-weather varietal, there are now refreshing, dry Rosés that are perfect for Winter. Yes, you heard us right. You can now drink your Rosé year round. Here are two bottles that will help you get it done.
These Mother-Daughter Halloween Costumes Will Make Everyone Say "Awww"
Settling on the perfect Halloween costume can be a real feat, especially if you're tackling it with your daughter. Whether she's 2 years old and pretty much down for everything or pushing 10 with her own unique vision, these costume ideas are sure to please both parties.
Since there's no such thing as being too matchy-matchy on Halloween, make the most of your night spent trick-or-treating in one of these creative get-ups.
Thinking About Adopting a Dog? Here's Why You Should Do It ASAP
Although it's painful to think about, the harsh reality is that not every pet owner necessarily takes care of their dog properly. Despite the fact that some of us shower our pooches with love (and sometimes ridiculous presents), animal shelters exist for a reason - there are millions of unwanted dogs in the US that have to call these places home. Thankfully, the month of October has been officially dubbed Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, so if getting a pup has crossed your mind, now is the time to strike. Thinking about adding a new member to your family? Scroll through to learn how you can help.
This Superscary Gender Reveal Will Scare the Absolute Sh*t Out of You
Judy and Gavin Holt definitely took a unique approach to announcing their second child's gender. The couple made a spine-tingling movie trailer complete with a Ouija board and their 2-year-old daughter Remy - and, yes, it's as frightening as you'd expect.
The four minute-long video has a similar plot line to Paranormal Activity. Read: toys moving on their own, ominous music playing in the background, and plenty of close-up crib shots that'll make you squirm. The scariest part of all? When the mom-to-be proposes to find out the gender of her baby even sooner by consulting a Ouija board: "You know there's another way we could find out the gender of the baby, right? "We could just ask." And as you can imagine, that idea didn't go over too well . . .
The Holt family will welcome their new baby in November.
Hate Halloween? 10 Just-as-Fun Things to Do Instead of Trick-or-Treating
I can't pinpoint exactly when I started to dislike Halloween, but the older I've gotten, the more deeply I loathe the so-called holiday. Between macabre-themed parties, skimpy costumes, and strangers constantly knocking on my door, I'm pretty much over it. I did think that once I had children of my own, I'd start to appreciate it again - the way I did when I was young and trick-or-treating in my mom's handmade costumes - but instead, I find myself trying to convince my husband that our kids won't miss it (he strongly disagrees).
If you are like me and say "boohoo" to Halloween every year instead of just "boo," there's definitely no reason you and your family have to hide out in a dark house as hordes of children in search of processed sugar invade your neighborhood. You can still get out and have a lot of fun - it just won't revolve around death, monsters, or candy. Here are 10 things you can do instead of trick-or-treating this year to enjoy the day in your own way.
Teacher's Cardboard Box to Get Students to Ask For Help Is Working Better Than Anything She's Ever Tried
Most good teachers try to connect with the kids in their classroom, but they aren't all successful at it.
Julia Brown was determined to get it right this school year, so she tried something new – a cardboard "I Need" box. It began as a way for her students to ask for help without having to come directly to her. They'd write it on a card and leave it in the box, and she'd get back to them before the week was over.
"I've been teaching middle school for 15 years, and I can honestly say this is the best thing I've ever done."
It quickly proved to be useful. "The first week, two boys let me know about a bullying situation," she wrote on Facebook. "We got it taken care of."
The success prompted her to change the format a little. Now, she has every single student put a card in the box every single day. They didn't have to write on it, but every student visits the box daily.
"Since then, I've had a plethora of 'needs' submitted," she said before listing some examples:
I need school supplies.
I need help with a friend issue.
I need help in another class.
I need a hug.
I need to talk to someone about a situation at home.
I need to change seats.
I need help with a bully.
Even more surprising, Julia has noticed that students have started to come to her directly with issues and challenges, knowing now that they will be heard without judgment.
"I've been teaching middle school for 15 years, and I can honestly say this is the best thing I've ever done to reach my kids this early in the school year," she said. "I hope many other teachers find it as successful as I have."
Superkids! The 28 Best Halloween Costumes For Your Little Heroes
Calling all brave, daring, and adventurous kids! Does your little one dream of being faster than a speeding bullet and more powerful than a locomotive? Do they want to defeat evil and protect humanity, all while wearing a sweet suit? Well, if you have an aspiring superhero on your hands, Halloween is the perfect day to let their capes fly free. And luckily for you, we've tracked down the coolest costumes that will get them ready to battle any kind of evil. Whether your little one aspires to be just like Superman, Wonder Woman, the Hulk, or Black Panther, we've found a costume that is sure to delight and inspire. With heroic accessories, awesome extras like light-up and sound features, and lots of built-in muscle, these 28 costumes are sure to make this the most super Halloween ever.
The 54 Best Gifts For 2-Year-Olds in 2018
Who says the terrible twos are really that bad? Certainly not your little angel! Two-year-olds are on the move and getting into everything, but with toys like a play table that sings about the food it's cooking and wooden puzzles that require a magnetic fishing pole, your tot will be so busy, he won't have time to get into trouble.
For even easier shopping, click below for gift ideas by category.
- Educational and Stem Toys
- Walking and Riding Toys
- Outdoor Toys
- Dolls and Plush Toys
- Just For Fun
- Pretend Play and Dress-Up
- Bath Toys
- Books
Zodiac Signs That Make the Best Dads, Ranked From Best to Worst
While every parent has their own unique and individualized set of skills, we all still wonder the same thing at the end of the day: are we doing a good job? And no matter how hard you try, it can seem like the type of parent you are is sometimes out of your control. Maybe, just maybe, it's all a little bit determined for us by our zodiac signs? If the same celestial bodies help guide our personality, why wouldn't they also help create who we are as parents? Just like some signs are better equipped to show creativity or athleticism, some signs make better dads. Here are the zodiac signs that make the best dads, ranked from best to worst.
- Taurus. Patience is the overarching virtue of the Taurus dad, which children require a lot of. Known for being very even-keeled, Tauruses excel in the parenting world because of their ability to remain grounded. While they sometimes can be known for being stubborn, it's that same trait as a father that encourages them to be steadfast and passionate about their family. This is the reliable sign that will do anything for their kids.
- Cancer. Even though the Cancer sign can be occasionally pushy, as fathers, they are incredibly nurturing. Ruled by emotion, they will be the kind of father that cries when your kid does because it affects them so deeply. The Cancer dad may not be the best equipped for the cry-it-out method, since your baby's sobs would hurt too much, but this is the dad who will bend over backwards loving and caring for his children.
- Pisces. Artistic, emotional, compassionate, and generous are just some of the amazing qualities of the Pisces father. The only thing that knocks them down a few rungs is their ability to become sullen and their inability to focus on one thing for a long period of time. Children don't care about a parent's mood swings, so it's best for a father to be willing to "be on" at any time.
- Libra. Libras make great fathers, especially dads of more than one child, in large part because of their desire to keep everything fair and just. This is the opposite of an egotistical sign, and it's their fair-mindedness that keeps things in the house moving forward. Careful, though - that same desire to keep things balanced can also lead to indecision.
- Capricorn. This dad is determined, possibly to a fault. As a father, they are the first to plan and sign kids up for activities and enjoy the teaching aspect of being a father. They appreciate trustworthiness and will teach their children to honor this. However, while the Capricorn dad is sincere and loving, there is also a tendency to show off and spoil their children.
- Leo. Stubborn for sure, the Leo sign gets a bad rap. While they certainly can be hotheaded, what helps the Leo dad is their willingness to be playful. Children can play for hours without stopping, and the Leo dad will be right there with them. Every Lego, every STEM project - the Leo dad enjoys this return to a childlike state. And that stubbornness, even though it makes them inflexible, also helps encourage them to discipline their kids.
- Aquarius. This sign is known for marching to the beat of their own drum, which can be problematic for routine-driven children. Even though this sign will encourage children to explore creative outlets and engage in the arts, it's also the sign that doesn't understand the need for schedules and order.
- Gemini. This twin, as a father, can be a bit two-faced. One moment they are calm and compassionate, playing on the floor, and the next they are running out to the garage to begin a project that takes them away for hours. Harness both energies by staying one step ahead of the Gemini dad and always giving them a task to complete.
- Scorpio. In a word, Scorpio men can be intense. This dad can be serious, overly stern, and unwilling to play. His saving grace as a parent is his curiosity. Chances are the Scorpio dad will want to learn everything there is to know about their children, even if at times they get secretive and need to retreat to their quiet safe space.
- Aries. This is a very serious sign, which, when they commit, goes full throttle. While they can be a family man who will encourage kids to pursue dreams and be artistic, the Aries dad also has some issues. Patience is definitely not their strong suit, so an Aries dad needs to work on this dynamic, especially with younger children.
- Sagittarius. Sure, Sagittariuses are known for being fun-loving and adventurous, but they're also exceptionally flighty and unwilling to be tied down. If you're OK with constantly having to pack your kids in to the back of an Airstream and set off on an adventure, Sagittariuses can be great dads. However, when cooped up inside, this sign can start to become restless and agitated.
- Virgo. Determined, opinionated, and strong-willed, this is not the sign for accommodating to the wills of children. While this dad will be very attached and love their kids, wanting only the best for them, they also have a strong penchant for requiring order and demanding the best from their children. This can lead to some critical moments and flowing tears. The Virgo dad needs to remember that children need to go at their own speed and will learn to be orderly as they get older.
21 of the Fluffiest, Friendliest, and Floppiest Stuffed Animals Out There
Children hold onto their stuffed animals for years, so much so that they often become quasi extensions of the family. Whether you think your little one will want to nestle up against something ultraplush, interact with a singing elephant with the floppiest ears ever (that move!), or just add to their collection of friendly animals, here are 21 stuffed animals you should wrap up this holiday season.
27 Gift Ideas For Baby’s First Christmas That're So Cute, We Can Hear the “Ahhs” Now
While baby isn't old enough to appreciate all of the effort you put into getting the house ready for the holidays, that doesn't mean you - or the grandparents - are going to slow down on buying them gifts to celebrate. Whether you have a newborn on your hands and are more interested in keepsakes or a near-1-year-old who's on the move and needs to work on their stability, we have 27 gifts that will put a smile on their face.
How 2 Parents Created a Dream Career For Their Son With Autism: "We Had to Think Outside the Box"
Granologist Donna and Dr. Lisa Liberatore.
Luv Michael was a dream that derived from two things: food and love. When Dr. Lisa Liberatore and Dr. Dimitri Kessaris's son Michael, who was diagnosed with autism at age 2, was growing up, they feared he wouldn't be able to have a career that personally and professionally fulfilled him. "[When Michael was in school], I realized that he would be graduating in just four short years," Lisa told POPSUGAR. "I knew we needed to think outside the box [when it came to finding him] meaningful employment." Instead of putting Michael in a job he may not like, Lisa and Dimitri let his passion for cooking lead the way. But because local culinary schools weren't equipped to train someone with autism, she and her husband came up with the idea for Luv Michael.
Luv Michael, which is based in Long Island City, is a food-based company that produces homemade, organic granola. In addition to Michael, the company employs other young adults with autism, offering them culinary, sales, customer service, and life skills training. Their team, whom they've dubbed "granologists," produces 120 pounds of granola each week for local grocery stores and food chains like Fresh&co and also for major companies like Starbucks and JetBlue. And they're just getting started. "Great things can happen when you give something and someone a chance," Lisa explained. To learn more about the amazing company and the strides it's making in disability employment, keep reading.
POPSUGAR: Where did the idea for Luv Michael come from?
Lisa Liberatore: When Michael was 17, I realized that he would be graduating from his school in only four years and there was little being done to give him meaningful employment. Since he showed interest and ability while cooking at home and at church, we thought why not help him learn to be a prep chef. I quickly saw that we needed to think outside the box since traditional culinary schools were not equipped to teach someone with autism. We started in our home and then created the idea of a home business. Granola was chosen since its recipe didn't include using knives, and I wanted to have an ability to include his other friends with autism.
The name Luv Michael references giving a present to someone else, and that's something that needs to be taught to someone with autism, i.e. thinking about others and their feelings.
PS: What was the biggest obstacle in getting it off the ground and getting people to really listen?
LL: The biggest obstacle was having enough time and money while also having a full-time medical practice and raising a son with autism. My husband and I needed to work to help pay for a startup venture, but I also needed to be the one to create this project since I have both the passion and the idea for how to do it differently than other businesses, and I understand autism having raised my son for over 20 years now.
Anyone I present the idea of Luv Michael to gets what it is right away and how wonderful the mission is, but what they don't realize is how much a project like this costs to run, but more importantly, to sustain. Businesses may want to help, but most are interested in the bottom line and profits. We're doing everything that traditional businesses don't, and we also need more support staff and a special education teacher on staff to achieve our goals.
PS: What has the response been like from your employees and their families?
LL: We started with just Michael, my nephew Christian, and another young man who graduated from the same school as Michael, but very quickly parents started to search for opportunities for their young adult children and saw what Luv Michael was trying to do. We give tours to interested parents and their child every week and see the tears in their eyes when they experience firsthand what we're doing and achieving. The employees, who we call "granologists," are hired after a few weeks of a working interview, and that's always an exciting, goosebumps type of day!
PS: How do you make sure your work environment is inclusive for people with disabilities?
LL: We found that our employees do better in a very structured environment with a lot of visuals and clear direction. We understand their challenges and focus on teaching skills to reduce anxiety and help them focus. There's a spirit of love, understanding, and patience, which everyone at Luv Michael brings to their work.
PS: What is the hiring process like?
LL: First, the interested person takes a tour and spends the day with us. If they like the experience, which so far everyone has, we offer them a volunteer position, which is like a working interview. Over the next several weeks, we both see if it's a good fit. Then one of the granologists presents a chef uniform and a job offer to the unsuspecting volunteer. We also let their parents know so they can witness the special day.
PS: How big of a role does teamwork play in your employees' day-to-day?
LL: We have a small, dedicated team that goes above and beyond each day to think about how to make the work place better, more stimulating, and rewarding for our employees.
PS: What different career growth opportunities do you offer your employees?
LL: Our granologists learn so many skills that we organized it into a five-prong curriculum, including food safety and science, communication and sales, IT and software skills, wellness and soft job skills, and creative arts. Our granologists can work towards passing the NY state food handlers license or become managers with increased pay. They may also transition to other job sites utilizing the skills derived from their Luv Michael employment.
PS: What would you say to other employers who aren't sure about hiring someone with a disability?
LL: Our employees are so dedicated and come to work on time and prepared to work with their uniform pressed and ready. They're proud of having the job and getting paid. They're never distracted by their cell phones at work. They show initiative all the time. For example, one of our granologists, Obi, did a trial run taking the train on his day off to make sure he would be on time for his shift the following day!
PS: How do you think different workforces can be more inclusive when it comes to hiring people with disabilities?
LL: If a business wants to hire someone with a disability, it's important to know what the challenges of that disability are to be able to support it. In the case of autism, it means giving employees clear visual schedules and direction. We also recognize there can be sensitivity to certain sounds and light, which needs attention. It also helps for the employee with a disability to have a peer mentor, preferably someone within the organization.
People with autism are very attentive to details and correctness, and many have incredible endurance as well as artistic talents. They can really thrive in so many areas beside the culinary field, such as woodworking and restoration, other fine arts fields, gardening and landscaping, IT and data work, and even dog walking!
PS: What do you feel is a common misconception people may have about people with disabilities? What do you want to say to people with those misconceptions?
LL: Many people think that people with disabilities can't work or don't care about working, and that is very untrue. Our granologists care about getting a paycheck and their job. They are productive and bring joy to those around them. Many people with disabilities have talent and just need a chance. The right job may take trying some things out to see what works best for that individual.
PS: What's one moment that really stands out to you that proved you're really changing the world for these individuals?
LL: The moment that hit me hardest was recently receiving letters from the parents of our granologists telling me how Luv Michael has changed their lives. I cried while reading them.
PS: What do you want other individuals with disabilities to know about following their dreams?
LL: Individuals with disabilities should ask those around them to help find opportunities like Luv Michael to discover what makes them happy at work. Great things can happen when you give something and someone a chance. You may never know what you're really good at or passionate about until you try!
PS: What advice do you have for other parents who aren't sure where to start when it comes to making sure their kids can have independent lives and fulfilling careers?
LL: Various agencies will allow a child to try different jobs to see what fits best for them. If they're in New York, feel free to contact us at info@Luv Michael.org to see about coming for a day tour. Our plan is to create a replicable model by Fall 2019, and thereby allow other families to have a Luv Michael in their town.
PS: What is your favorite part about your job?
LL: I love seeing a new person getting hired. That is an incredible day for everyone. I also love creating new opportunities within our business as a response to what will make our granologists even more successful and feel rewarded by their job.
I'm That Overly Cautious Mom Who Throws Away All Halloween Candy That Isn't Totally Sealed
Hello! Allow me to introduce myself. I'm that super-overprotective mom who is paranoid AF. Especially around Halloween, when so many scary things can happen (literally). I need only have heard one story about one kid eating a piece of candy that was tampered with, even if it was way back in 1987 when I was a kid myself, to unleash some corporate-level quality control on my own kids' stash before they dig in.
Before my kids could so much as utter one word of protest, I had already tossed those repurposed cocoa solids in the closest garbage bin.
I operate under the assumption that a parent can never be too cautious when your children are basically taking candy from strangers. So, yes, every year, my kids have to wait while I inspect their chocolate bars and lollipops for, oh, I don't know, razor blades. If I happen to see a wrapper that isn't totally sealed (anything wrapped at the sides is gone) or looks iffy, like someone removed it and rewrapped it, or even just lifted up the edge, I toss that peanut butter cup or mini licorice pack faster than you can say "trick-or-treat."
Not that I encounter too much suspicious candy, but believe me, it's out there. Last year, my kids brought home several chocolate eggs in Christmas wrappers. Thinking about it logically, best case scenario, that candy was 10 months old. Indeed, a quick inspection inside the red and green foils revealed some rather questionable-looking chocolate that was covered in white powder. Before my kids could so much as utter one word of protest, I had already tossed those repurposed cocoa solids in the closest garbage bin.
Here's the thing: My kids don't need all the candy they score on Halloween anyway. Their teeth are probably already going to rot out from the stuff I let them keep that's totally on the up and up. I simply fail to see the need to keep candy on hand that gives me any reason to doubt whether it's safe for my children to eat.
Most of the time, my kids don't even notice I've edited their bounty and removed any candy I've either never heard of or that could possibly have been tampered with, no matter how unlikely. And even if they gave me a hard time, I'd tell them what my mom used to tell me: "It's better to be safe than sorry." One day, when they're parents, they'll understand.
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.
Man Narrates His Wife's Contractions as If He Were on Animal Planet, and We're Surprised She Didn't Kill Him
File this under: things to never do while someone is in active labor.
Lindsey Meehleis, a California-based midwife, was assisting in one woman's home birth when she noticed the husband filming his laboring wife - but not one of those supportive "you got this!" type of videos. Nope, Meehleis almost "peed her pants" when she discovered he was recording a "hilarious Crocodile Hunter video" as if he were narrating a nature documentary on Animal Planet.
"It's very dangerous to film them when they're about to give birth, but we've got one here," he said with an Australian accent as he followed his wife while she paced around the living room. "We've got to be very careful."
Just then, she looked right into the camera. "Ooh, she spotted us. Back up!"
It's at that point that we would have smacked the camera right out of his hand, but this heroic woman - breathing through a contraction, no less - totally kept her cool.
Sure, it was funny, but word to the wise, men: do not even dare try this at home.
32 Harry Potter Gifts For Muggles Who Take Raising a Wizard VERY Seriously
Whether you're a new mom, sister, or great uncle, welcoming a new bundle of joy into the world is probably the only thing more magical than your favorite Harry Potter book. And while no human being can truly get enough of all of those tiny shoes, pants, and hats, putting a little wizarding touch on it never hurt anyone, right?
So whether you're hoping your new baby lands in Gryffindor or is more of a Ravenclaw, just like Mom or Dad, there's definitely a gift for every little Muggle-born. Scroll through to get a glimpse of our favorite gifts, and try not to make all the money in your wallet suddenly vanish à la "Evanesco!"
These Harry Potter Games Will Make Your Family Game Nights as Competitive as a Quidditch Match
Family game night is about to get very competitive; like, Slytherin vs. Gryffindor for the Quidditch Cup competitive. Thanks to a slew of Harry Potter-themed games - some original, some HP editions of classics - your kids can test their Wizarding World knowledge and compete with their family and friends to become the Triwizard Champion of game night. (Not to mention, these games make magical gifts!)
See our favorite HP games ahead, and look out for our owls - they'll have your official game night invites.
If You Love Lists, You're Gonna Love Tribalist!
If you love a list - for future travel destinations, new books, or podcast recs - then you have to check out Tribalist! Tribalist features thousands of curated lists from your friends, influencers, celebs, and brands you love (like POPSUGAR). If you're inspired by some of your hidden gems, it also makes it easy to create your own lists of what you love and what you want to do. Forget the old emails you've been saving, those Google sheets, and iPhone notes - now you can make and check your lists in one place.
All lists on Tribalist are also instantly shoppable and connect to partners like Netflix, Amazon, and OpenTable, which means it's easy to access everything you love with just one click. We've officially partnered with Tribalist so you can find your favorite POPSUGAR-curated lists there, too! Be sure to follow us for inspiration and start creating lists of your favorite things today.
I Took My Kids on an RV Trip - Here Are 5 Things You Should Know Before Planning Your Own
Last weekend, my husband finally convinced me to take our kids camping. He's always loved every aspect of spending a weekend in the great outdoors; I prefer visiting nature during the day, then returning home to my own bed, where two closed doors and several dozen feet separate me and our sleeping children. Our compromise? We'd rent an RV (we found ours through Outdoorsy), bringing our own bathroom, refrigerator, microwave, television, and electricity to a campsite a few hours from home. Also coming along? Our two kids, ages 4 and 7, and our 15-week-old puppy. What could go wrong?
More than we expected, as it turns out (we won't talk about the tow truck we had to call when we made a wrong turn out of the campsite and landed our front right wheel in a ditch). Camping, even when you're bringing along the equivalent of a tiny apartment on wheels, requires a lot of work: before, during, and after your trip. I definitely didn't leave the experience a camping enthusiast, but I did learn a lot from our family adventure, including just how many of my mom friends were also interested in planning an RV trip for their own families. Everyone from my fanciest girlfriends to my most outdoorsy ones seemed intrigued. If you are, too, here's what you need to know before you brave the elements on your own RV camping trip.
16 Thoughtful Gifts For Your Long-Distance Guy
LDRs mean you have to make every holiday and visit really count, so make sure you're gifting something from the heart this year. Whether it's something personalized or an item that will help you make the best out of your situation, your man is sure to appreciate one of these 16 gifts ahead.
- Additional reporting by Nicole Yi
50 Incredible Gifts For Your Favorite Couple
Shopping isn't always easy, and it can be even more difficult when you're shopping for not one gift recipient, but two. But shopping for couples can have a lot of advantages, including saving a bit of money and time - two necessities many of us could use more of around the holiday season. Shopping for couples also gives you the chance to gift them something they can do or enjoy together, whether it's an idea for a date night, a decoration for their home, or some inspiration for their next trip abroad. No matter what you choose or what your budget is, these cool and unique gifts for couples certainly don't lack thoughtfulness!
How Venom Sets Up Its Next Big Villain (With the Help of a Major Cameo)
Warning: We're dishing out some pretty big Venom spoilers! Careful!
Now that Venom is finally here, we can unpack all of the exciting things the antihero film has to offer. Naturally, there's plenty of great stuff to go over. Michelle Williams shines in a particularly empowered role as Anne Weying. We're already looking forward to a sequel! There are TWO postcredits scenes! And for all the cool things we get to see in this new entry into the cinematic hero-verse, there are some other things to consider - namely, the significance of Woody Harrelson's major cameo, which comes after the credits have rolled.
Wondering what the deal is with Harrelson's brief surprise appearance? Fans of the Venom comics likely would have instantly recognized the esteemed actor as the one and only Cletus Kasady, aka the symbiote who becomes the villain Carnage. Cletus is an incarcerated serial killer who, in the film, is serving time at San Quentin State Prison. Harrelson's cameo doesn't necessarily come as a surprise, seeing as Carnage was always rumored to be in the film. The real surprise is that he has such a small role!
Fortunately, it seems the creative powers that be are simply setting up a bigger story for future films. Since Riot (Riz Ahmed) wound up being the big bad this time around, we're assuming Carnage will wreak havoc in round two. So, there you have it. Woody Harrelson's crazy eyes may have been but a blip on our radar in Venom, but we imagine he'll return with a vengeance in the next chapter in the universe. Here's hoping we get a little Spider-Man action while we're at it.
The Curious Case of the Venom Movie's Vanishing Villain, Carnage
Warning: Spoilers for Venom below! Look away! (Unless you're here for it.)
When details about Venom first began to emerge in earnest, it seemed pretty clear that one comic-book baddie would appear as Eddie Brock's onscreen nemesis. Early reports pinpointed Carnage as the villain - he's one of Venom's biggest foes in the comic books. The initial title of the film was even allegedly supposed to be Venom: Carnage at one point. So, you can imagine everyone's surprise when Carnage doesn't appear in the film at all and in his stead we have Riot, played by Riz Ahmed. But wait! All hope is not lost! While there's no appearance to speak of per se, we do have a brief exchange with his alter ego, which suggests Carnage will pop up in the sequel.
First things first! If you haven't put two and two together, we meet Carnage (sort of) during the first postcredits scene. Eddie Brock goes to San Quentin State Prison for an interview with Cletus Kasady, who is (or will eventually be) the host for a symbiote known as Carnage. In the film, Cletus is played by Woody Harrelson; he has wild, crazy eyes and curly bright red hair. It's unclear if Cletus has come into contact with Carnage by the time we meet him on screen, but we do know this is more or less where the character starts in the comics. In fact, it may be this encounter with Eddie that ultimately makes Carnage come alive.
Let's backtrack. For the uninitiated, Cletus is a deranged serial killer who is serving time for his unspeakable crimes. At one point in the comic books, Venom basically "gives birth" to a spawn that attaches itself to Cletus and eventually becomes Carnage. Since the symbiote race basically reacts to the personality of their hosts, Carnage amplifies Cletus's psychotic tendencies, as well as his thirst for chaos and destruction. That's what makes him so dangerous.
That's basically the crash course on Carnage! Buckle up, because Cletus's appearance in the postcredits scene must mean we're headed for a pretty devastating face-off in a future film. We can't wait to see how this turns out.
You're Gonna Want to Stay Until the Very End of the Credits After Seeing Venom
Warning: spoilers for Venom below!
Venom may not be your run-of-the-mill superhero movie in a lot of ways. After all, our hero is a monstrous alien creature that bites the heads off of innocent bystanders and screams in your head like a schizophrenic voice from another realm. Thankfully, though, it does have one thing in common with the bulk of entries these days: a postcredits scene! In fact, the film doesn't just have one clip to keep you in your seat after the final shot; there are two delicious snacks to look forward to. If you missed the scene or you're just morbidly curious, we're breaking it all down for you right here, right now.
OK, so the first scene is actually more of a midcredits scene. At the very end of the film, while talking to Anne (Michelle Williams), Eddie (Tom Hardy) reveals that he's thinking of getting back into investigative journalism and that he's landed the interview of a lifetime. In the midcredits scene, Eddie rolls up to the San Quentin State Prison, just north of San Francisco. It turns out he's booked for a little chat with a man by the name of Cletus Kasady, played by Woody Harrelson! Cletus is in solitary confinement, in some kind of cell that's not unlike Hannibal Lecter's near the end of Silence of the Lambs or Harley Quinn's in Suicide Squad. Cletus grins and welcomes Eddie, who asks why he wanted to talk in the first place.
At the very end of the credits, we get a glimpse of Spider-Man! Except . . . it's not the Spider-Man played by Tom Holland in the Marvel Comics Universe. It's actually an extended look at Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, which is set to hit theaters this Christmas. In the scene, young Miles (dressed in a makeshift Spider-Man costume) visits the grave of Peter Parker. When a mysterious man approaches, Miles accidentally knocks him out, then realizes he's also wearing Spider-Man paraphernalia under his street clothes. Suddenly, he's accidentally tethered to this mysterious man with his ultrasticky web, right as the cops show up. Thinking quickly, Miles slings his web, catching a passing subway train. Cue an epic chase through the streets of New York, with the cops hot on his (and the unconscious body's) trail.
That's about it! Both scenes are pretty cool in terms of payoff, so I'd say it's worth waiting until the end. After all, that midcredits scene is almost certainly setting us up for a sequel. We haven't seen the last of this symbiote.
Netflix's The Curious Creations of Christine McConnell Puts the Treat in "Trick or Treat"
Netflix's gothic baking show is putting the "treat" in your Halloween trick or treats. The Curious Creations of Christine McConnell features Instagram baker and artist Christine McConnell as she cooks up the most "hauntingly disturbing confections." The art of darkness takes on a whole new meaning as McConnell creates deliciously spooky treats like chocolate werewolves, monster houses, and creepy edible candles - all with the help of her supernatural collection of creatures. The Curious Creations of Christine McConnell is sure to give you a craving for something sweet and a little scary. Watch the trailer above, and get ready to bake when the show hits Netflix on Oct. 12.
Princess Eugenie Shares a Sweet Throwback Wedding Snap With Beatrice Before Her Own Big Day
Princess Eugenie is gearing up for her wedding to Jack Brooksbank, but she was still in the mood for a little Throwback Thursday action this week. On her public Instagram page, Eugenie shared a supercute photo of her and her older sister, Princess Beatrice, all dolled up in white dresses and flower crowns for a wedding when they were young. "#tbt sisterly love 💕," Eugenie captioned the sweet snap, which shows the sisters giggling together in the grass. The photo is from the 1993 wedding of Beatrice and Eugenie's former nanny, Alison Wardley, where the girls served as royal bridesmaids.
We'll be blessed with even more great photos of Eugenie and her maid of honor Beatrice at the 28-year-old's wedding in Windsor next Friday; she's set to walk down the aisle at St. George's Chapel, the same location where her cousin Harry wed his bride Meghan Markle back in May. This time around, though, all eyes will be on Eugenie and her family as she says her vows, and the best part is, we'll all get to watch along on TV. See Eugenie's sweet childhood snap, then check out even more gems from her public account.
24 Facts About Mila Kunis That'll Make You Love Her Even More
Sweet, funny, and hardworking, Mila Kunis is an American gem. Most of us know her from her TV roles as Jackie Burkhart on That '70s Show and Meg Griffin on Family Guy. She's also been in a range of different movies, from raunchy comedies such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall to dark thrillers like Black Swan. The ball keeps rolling for the actress, who recently appeared in the Summer blockbuster The Spy Who Dumped Me alongside the wonderful Kate McKinnon. Needless to say, her career is thriving, and her relationship with her husband, Ashton Kutcher, is pretty adorable as well. Over the years, we've learned about her through her endlessly entertaining interviews. After sleuthing the internet and watching more than a few hilarious talks, we present to you our favorite trivia bits and facts about Mila!
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