Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
mercredi 10 octobre 2018
Is That Your Childhood Calling? These 9 Mexican Candies Will Take You Back
Is there anything better than Mexican candy? Growing up, I was obsessed with spicy and sweet lollipops and delicious hard candies. So, it's kind of a big deal that I can find the hallmarks of my childhood on Amazon.
Especially if you're looking for trick-or-treat candy, these are some delicious options with unexpected flavor combinations guaranteed to make you smile; think of tamarind, chili, mango, and watermelon. Once you try this deliciousness, you won't be able to get enough.
9 Unique Fall Festivals Around the World
Fall may be about harvests and pumpkin spice everything, but there's a whole lot more going on that is worth checking out. There are also festivals around the world that you should add to your bucket list. Some of them are in far-reaching corners of the globe, so they may just be an excuse to plan a trip!
How Microsoft Is Changing the Face of Disability Employment: "It Has Never Been More Important"
Disability is not inability, and when everyone can understand that it's what differently abled individuals bring to the table that matters - and not what their diagnosis is - is when we'll have a truly inclusive system. People with disabilities make up the third largest market segment in the US, and it makes business sense to tap into this pool of talent. Because of their ability to cope with challenges on a daily basis, differently abled employees bring with them a unique perspective and out-of-the-box thinking that helps solve problems. And fostering a disability-friendly culture of inclusion creates a stronger, viable organization.
Major companies like Microsoft are waking up to the potential that employees with disabilities possess and are now exploring ways to make their workforce more diverse. "A diverse and inclusive workforce will yield better products and solutions for our customers, and better experiences for our employees," Neil Barnett, director of inclusive hiring and accessibility at Microsoft, told POPSUGAR.
Microsoft has always been at the forefront of innovation and leadership, and when it comes to disability inclusion, it doesn't disappoint. Effective workplace diversity and inclusion practices have changed the face of Microsoft and have made it more attractive to differently abled candidates. "We learned that our traditional hiring process, the front door to Microsoft, could be a major barrier of entry for many talented candidates," Barnett admitted. So they decided to "adjust the shape of the door." With its commitment to disability inclusion, Microsoft is making sweeping changes to its hiring policies and workplace culture. Keep reading to find out more about how Microsoft is changing the face of disability employment.
POPSUGAR: What are some of the initiatives that Microsoft is taking to attract more differently abled candidates?
Neil Barnett: Microsoft's approach to inclusive hiring is not limited to just one program or initiative. We host job fairs, fund an annual scholarship for high school students interested in technology, and offer targeted hiring programs such as our Autism Hiring Program and Supported Employment Program. We also work with community partners to share information on Microsoft's inclusive hiring practices as they work to be an employer of choice for those with disabilities more broadly.
PS: Why is an inclusive hiring process so important to Microsoft?
NB: With over one billion people with disabilities around the world, it has never been more important to ensure that we reflect the diversity of our customers. So, we are focused on building an inclusive culture that celebrates the amazing skills, experiences, and backgrounds that all employees bring to the company. That kind of inclusion will enable us to deliver better products and solutions for customers, and better experiences for our employees - and that's essential.
PS: Can you expand a little bit on what the hiring process is like for someone with a disability (e.g. autism)?
NB: When we started the Autism Hiring Program in 2015, our approach was simple. We learned that our traditional hiring process, the front door to Microsoft, could be a major barrier of entry for many talented candidates. By adjusting the shape of the door, we could help candidates showcase and demonstrate their talent to hiring managers.
Résumés are screened for the skills and qualifications necessary in the identified open roles. A set of eligible candidates will be asked to complete an online technical assessment. Candidates may also be invited for a prescreening interview to gauge their interest, skill, and experience for the position. You may then be invited to a multiple-day skills assessment program covering workability, team building, and technical skills on Microsoft's Redmond campus. The goal of this multidate process is for candidates to showcase their professional skills. The hiring teams will meet and engage with the candidates during program exercises and job interviews. Based on the skills assessment and hiring manager feedback, the candidate could be offered a full-time job as a Microsoft employee. We're finding incredible talent through our hiring program efforts and are always looking for additional talent to join Microsoft.
PS: What are some of the strategies you use for better retention of such employees?
NB: Each hire is offered a more immersive onboarding process with a comprehensive set of services so they feel supported throughout. This includes training sessions for the teams and managers of the new hires to help them better understand autism, as well as a job coach from PROVAIL, a nonprofit that supports people with disabilities to fulfill their life choices.
Microsoft has a large Employee Resource Group with a focus on supporting employees with more than 20 disabilities to get help for new hires. This is a great social bridge for questions about everything from "How do I use the bus system?" to "How do I put money on my meal card?"
PS: Dealing with the stress of a work environment can take a toll on a person with disability. Do you have support groups that help your employees navigate this challenge? How do you support employees who are struggling?
NB: To help foster diversity and inclusion, Microsoft has a rich community of Employee Resource Groups (ERG) and Employee Networks (EN). These organizations provide career development, support, networking opportunities, mentoring, community participation, product input, and assistance in activities that promote cultural awareness.
Of note - the community mentorship program, created as a benefit of the Autism Hiring Program, brings volunteers from around the company (typically parents of children with autism) in to be a friend, mentor, or buddy to new employees hired through this program. A community mentor is a friendly face and resource for questions about "life at Microsoft" and is there to help make the transition to the large company feel more comfortable and safe.
PS: What are some of the accommodations you have or plan to have to make the work environment more inclusive?
NB: We provide training sessions for the teams and managers of the new hires to help them better understand disabilities and how to help employees with disabilities succeed within the workplace. Managers also work to adjust their communication style to use less acronyms, provide feedback more frequently, explain things in more detail during meetings, and pause to ask questions in order to keep everyone engaged and on the same level of understanding.
Many managers have provided feedback that the trainings on becoming more inclusive in their approach have benefits for all their employees, including changing their communications style, giving feedback more often, and recapping meetings with detailed actions, etc.
PS: Do you also partner with disability groups and organizations to connect your employees with resources?
NB: Microsoft's disAbility Employee Resource Group (ERG) enters into partnerships with nationwide associations, nonprofit organizations, and special interest groups to increase disability awareness, drive joint objectives, and help organizations in need.
PS: How do you ensure better disability awareness and acceptance within the company?
NB: The disAbility ERG's goal is to enable employees at Microsoft to reach their full potential through inclusion, representation, and access to accommodations, and in doing so, be the employer of choice for people with disabilities globally. The ERG's three key priorities in pursuit of this goal have a direct impact on Microsoft and its employees:
- Drive internal visibility to ensure that there's an awareness of disability groups and that adequate accommodations and resources are available. Provide a resource pool of people who can share a wealth of knowledge and experience on how to succeed at Microsoft. In 2016, the entire Microsoft workforce (over 100,000) received training that aimed to reinforce Microsoft's commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
- Help Microsoft be best-in-practice with software, tools, buildings, and events that are accessible to all people with disabilities. Collaborate with our product teams to design, develop, and build accessible Microsoft products and drive accessibility improvements in the work environment.
- Build external awareness of Microsoft as the employer of choice for people with disabilities. Work with community partners to share Microsoft's approach and best practices in the areas of accessibility and ergonomic accommodations.
PS: How does disability inclusion align with your company's broader culture, vision, and values?
NB: Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As we transform our business and culture, the value proposition for diversity and inclusion within Microsoft is increasingly clear - a diverse and inclusive workforce will yield better products and solutions for our customers, and better experiences for our employees. We know that diversity gains will not be sustained unless we all do our part to encourage new and different perspectives, solutions, and innovative ideas to surface from all our employees. Being inclusive is not something we simply do, but rather it stands for who we are. We see our leaders and managers as role models in transforming the culture.
PS: What would you say to other companies out there to encourage them to open their doors to the differently abled?
NB: Invest and learn together. Be humble and hungry to understand more about this section of your customer base. You will discover insights and ideas that would never have been possible otherwise. With a culture rooted in a growth mindset focused on becoming continual learners, we are seeing positive benefits of sharing what we've learned while creating the program.
If you're looking for more ideas, Microsoft recently set up an Inclusive Hiring website to share our best practices, videos, and highlight opportunities, all with the intention to make it easier for people to find information about our programs. We have also started a coalition of Autism at Work employers that are looking to help other companies get started.
Here's How Your Favorite Celebrities Rocked Cherry Eyes at the AMAs
Take a quick look at the shelves in Sephora and Ulta, and you'll notice eye shadow palettes in hues of pinks and berries dominating the stores. The look has been spotted all over Instagram, and on Tuesday night, it showed up on the red carpet at the American Music Awards.
Whether you choose to pair the rosy colors with a bold lip like Cardi B or keep the rest of your look neutral like Vanessa Hudgens, we're sure you can make this wearable look suit your beauty style.
Check out the celebrity looks ahead.
Halsey Debuted Rose-Colored Hair at the AMAs, and Now We're Running to Our Colorist
We've been completely obsessed with Halsey's beauty game since she came on the music scene, but on the AMAs red carpet Tuesday night, she took our breath away.
The "Without Me" singer graced the award show with a look so great, we're considering trying it out for ourselves. Halsey's iconic pixie cut is now a pink-purple hue that matched her gown perfectly. Aside from having a bold new hair color, the singer also rocked light purple, shimmery eye shadow and pale pink lipstick that complemented her hair.
Keep scrolling to see her look from every angle.
Take a Peek at the Best Manicures on the AMAs Red Carpet
The AMAs are famous for bold makeup and hair looks, but one detail we make sure to never miss are the stars' nails. The 2018 show was no exception as singers like Ella Mai wore complex nail art and stars like Taylor Swift rocked outfit-matching tips. The thrilling looks will give you endless ideas for your next manicure and are perfect for your own special event.
Ahead, see all the stars' perfectly polished nails up close!
Attention, Animal-Lovers: Dove Just Made a HUGE Announcement
Dove has always been a feel-good brand that has valued and empowered people everywhere, but many animal-lovers wanted it to commit to becoming cruelty-free. Today, the body care company listened to fans and announced that all Dove products are now certified as such by PETA.
Although Dove maintains that it has used non-animal practices to test the safety of Dove's products for more than 30 years, the company has now rescinded permission of governments to test products and ingredients on its behalf, therefore qualifying it for the cruelty-free symbol from PETA.
Beginning in 2019, you can expect the seal to start popping up on the packaging of all your favorite Dove products.
15 Sephora Gift Sets That Will Fill Any Beauty Junkie With Pure Joy
Beauty-lovers know what the Fall means: major deals on gift sets! Beauty brands release holiday kits featuring bestsellers and limited-edition launches for sliced prices so you can give a gift to someone else . . . or yourself. This season, we're sharing the gifts we want on our lists (*sends not-so-subtle hint to Santa*) and why these are the best ones you need to snag before they sell out.
The 13 Top-Rated Face Masks on the Internet
On the hunt for an effective and trustworthy face mask? Let the internet be your guide. We uncovered the top-rated options at a variety of price points. These masks are getting rave reviews and work for a variety of skin concerns. Whether you want a sheet, clay, gel, or peel-off option, we've got you covered. Find out why these picks are worthy of your attention.
More Than 250,000 People Have Registered to Vote Following Taylor Swift's Political Instagram Post
Taylor Swift recently stepped into the political arena - and thousands of her fans may be following suit. The 28-year-old singer broke her long political silence through an Instagram post to her 112M followers on Oct. 7, and in the days following, Vote.org has reported a massive spike in voter registration.
October is normally a popular month to register, as voter registration deadlines loom in many states and individuals start to prepare for election day. However, to see over 250,000 voters register in a 48-hour period is not normal, especially when 157,000 of those individuals are between the ages of 18 to 29.
Buzzfeed reports voter registration has increased dramatically in Tennessee, a state Swift specifically emphasizes in her post. While her viral "call to vote" may not be the only contributing factor to this jump, the surge in young voters is definitely consistent with her demographic. Midterm elections? "Swifties" are ready for it.
These $25 Compression Socks Totally Transformed My Swollen Legs
At the end of almost every day, my feet, ankles, and lower calves feel swollen and tired. For me, it's a genetic issue because everyone in my family has poor circulation. I've been instructed by doctors to make sure I kick back and rest my feet as often as I can, but when I'm running around or working, that's much easier said than done.
I usually experience the most swelling while flying, to the point where I don't dare to take my shoes off mid-flight because I know I won't be able to squeeze my puffy feet back into them. At the urging of my friends, I finally took the plunge and scrambled to purchase this Laite Hebe 7 Pack of Compression Socks ($25). They boast more than 4,300 reviews from passionate customers who saw significant changes in their leg swelling, which compelled me to click and buy.
After my flight, I took the socks off to find that my legs were my normal, nonswollen size. That was a first. Now I'm completely addicted to wearing them at the gym or even just under my jeans and booties to work. You don't have to have a circulation issue to wear these socks either. They're great for exercising in general, to help blood circulation and oxygen flow, and preventing cramping. And if you have a job where you're on your feet all day, these can help give you some relief.
They come in an array of styles and colors, ideal for every day or the gym. Keep scrolling to see all the choices.
Absentee Voting: Everything You Need to Know but Were Afraid to Ask
Everyone remembers their first time. It's exciting and nerve-wracking. There are so many options. You are never sure what to expect afterwards. So finally, you just do it. You vote.
But what if you are out of state or out of the country during the election? Then what happens? We talked to Micheala Bethune from DoSomething.org and learned everything you need to know about how to vote via absentee ballot.
All Things Absentee
"Working with over six million young people for the past 25 years, we noticed that young people prefer voting absentee, but they don't know how," Bethune says. DoSomething.org believes that young people should be shaping the future, as they will be the ones living in it. "We have over six million members between the ages of 13 to 25 who signed up to take a social action. These members push for change in their communities."
DoSomething created National Absentee Ballot Day on Oct. 9 and launched votingabsentee.org to inform young voters about the process. This website provides you with all the necessary information related to absentee voting. In only two minutes, you can register to vote, request an absentee ballot, and help your friends get registered with no cost.
"You can host an event on National Absentee Ballot Day, a party on your campus with your friends," Bethune says.
When you fill out your ballot on National Absentee Voting Day, Bethune suggests taking a selfie and sending it to DoSomething.org. "If you do, we will put your picture up on our homepage and share it on our social channels, which have millions of followers. This website will amplify all the young people who are voting or requesting their absentee ballots on this day."
Target: College Students
In 2019, millennials are expected to surpass baby boomers as the largest generation of Americans eligible to vote, according to the nonpartisan Pew Research Center. "In the last presidential election, almost 40 percent of votes were cast before the election day," Bethune continues. "This is why it's incredibly important for college students who are away from home to have the tools they need to request an absentee ballot, learn everything, and send in their votes in time. So their voices can be heard."
People over the age of 60 vote nearly twice as much as people under the age of 29.
"So many local elections in your towns and in your communities are just decided by a handful of votes," Bethune says. "Your voice really makes a difference there."
People over the age of 60 vote nearly twice as much as people under the age of 29. The goal is to get just as many young people voting as people over 60. Then, Bethune says, "politicians will start listening. They will start working on issues young people care about. Because they look at the people who participate in our democracy. So it's important as an entire movement for us to show old people that young people aren't to be forgotten. We turn out to vote."
Don't Make These Common Mistakes
"The biggest mistake you can make is not knowing if you can vote absentee at your college campus," Bethune says. "You can vote in every single state if you have a permanent mailing address." If you don't want your absentee ballot request to get rejected, you should make sure to mail in your ballot on time.
"This is why we picked Oct. 9 as National Absentee Ballot Day," Bethune explains. "On this day, people can either mail their ballots in or request an absentee ballot. Either way, they would have enough time to get their ballot in the mail, sit with it, and do some research."
To avoid any other rejections, you need to fill out your absentee ballot request form completely. But you can always go on votingabsentee.org and ask the on-call experts to break down the rules and regulations and what's going on in your state.
Basic Checklist ✔️
- Go on votingabsentee.org, and register to vote.
- Request your absentee ballot.
- Wait until your ballot arrives.
- Sit with your ballot, and do some research using DoSomething.org's guides to help you understand all the different issues and what they mean.
- Vote, and mail your ballot in.
- Take a selfie, and get excited!
We're Calling It Now: These Are the Most Popular Halloween Costumes For Kids This Year
Year after year, little ghosts, mummies, and witches run around screaming "Trick or treat!" as they wander through their neighborhoods carrying pumpkin-shaped candy buckets - but every year, there's a slew of costumes that make everyone say, "Yup, expected as much," for a different reason. Between all of the popular new movies, TV shows, books, and video games from the year, there are always a ton of new favorite characters to pretend to be each Oct. 31. From Fortnite characters to a select few trendy animals, we're calling it now: the following costumes are going to be the most popular of the year.
Just be sure that if your child's asking to dress in one of these costumes that they're sure it's the one they truly want - because shopping for a Halloween ensemble with indecisive kids is one of the worst parts of the holiday.
The Best Gifts For 7-Year-Olds in 2018
Your little one is growing up, and in case you didn't notice, they're a big kid now. From building sets that let them get creative to games that bring the whole family to the table, we've rounded up the best gifts for the 7-year-old on your list - gifts that will keep them coming back for more every day.
- Additional Reporting by Rebecca Gruber
For even easier shopping, click below for your needs.
Boost That Brain Without Breaking the Bank - 18 Educational Presents Under $25
There's a toy for everything these days. Whether you have a toddler who's just starting to explore on their own, or a budding scientist on your hand, chances are you can find creative ways for them to learn logic, coding, and even math - so creative that they won't even know they're learning! Here are the best educational toys for the holiday season. The best part is that they're super affordable.
Terrible Twos or Not, These 17 Stocking Stuffers Are Too Cute to Not Gift Your Toddler With
Whether your child's second birthday brought on the terrible twos or not, shopping for a 2-year-old can be tough. If you're looking to gift your toddler with thoughtful and fun gifts, but don't want to go overboard - after all, new toys mean less space in your house! - one of the best ways to keep the holiday gifting to a minimum is through fun stocking stuffers that are a bit smaller than say, a giant indoor bouncy castle.
Ahead, our favorite stocking stuffers for 2-year-olds thriving in their toddler years.
Regal Cinemas Will Do Sensory-Friendly Screenings of Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween This Weekend!
Seeing a movie in theaters is such a fun experience, but for children with sensory processing disorders, autism, and other special needs, as well as those who aren't big fans of the dark or a lot of noise, the cinema isn't the most comfortable place to be. Because every child and their family should be able to enjoy a brand-new movie in theaters, Regal Cinemas is introducing the My Way Matinee program, a sensory-friendly movie-going experience that will feature lower sounds and brighter lights in the theaters.
In addition to the volume and lighting adjustments, those visiting the theaters for these once-a-month showings will be able to dance, sing, and shout along with the characters in the films. Each My Way Matinee show will begin at 10:30 a.m. local time, and the best news? Tickets will only cost $6.50.
"Regal strives to be 'The Best Place to Watch a Movie,' and that means creating positive, lasting memories for all moviegoers," Sandra Heinig, director of public relations at Regal, said in a press release. "We are continually expanding this program to include even more theaters, because we want every movie fan to feel comfortable and have fun at Regal."
Regal Cinemas has held sensory-friendly screenings for a number of new releases this Summer, and will kick off the Halloween season with Oct. 13 showings of Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween. Visit the My Way Matinee information page to find out if your local Regal is participating in the program. (And check out which kids' movies you can stream on Netflix right now!)
My Husband and I Don't Sleep in the Same Bed Anymore Because of Our Kid
Do moms ever really sleep? My husband started sleeping in the other room when our son was diagnosed with epilepsy a few years ago. That was about the same time I stopped sleeping in our room, too. I mean, I lie in our bed with my son every single night, but I don't sleep while I'm there. The fears that come along with having a child with epilepsy keep me from sleeping at night. But my husband? He needs his sleep.
Instead, I listen to him comfortably breathe from my son's Batman bed as he sleeps in the room next door. It's a fun room I set up with the full knowledge that it would never be used by our 4-year-old. My mom guilt wouldn't let me leave my son without his own perfectly decorated superhero room, even though I knew it wouldn't be the space he actually slept in, which is why it's the perfect place to go when my husband need some peaceful shut-eye. And it will be there waiting for my son when he's ready to sleep in his own bed.
If you had told me a few years ago that my husband and I would forgo sleeping in the same room, I would have told you you were lying.
If you had told me a few years ago that my husband and I would forgo sleeping in the same room, I would have told you you were lying. I hate hearing stories of couples who drift apart and can't even sleep together at night. But the difference in our story is that my husband and I don't sleep in separate rooms because we don't want to be together. We would much rather deal with each other's annoying habits - I'm restless and he snores - than be apart from each other. But sleeping in separate rooms for our son's sake? That's another story.
As a parent of a child with epilepsy, I don't sleep, because the fear of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, also called SUDEP, will strike if I close my eyes for too long. SUDEP accounts for one in 4,500 deaths in children with epilepsy, and is the leading cause of death in people whose seizures aren't controlled. Those who die of SUDEP are found dead in bed, likely passing from suffocation due to being face down during and/or after a nocturnal seizure. We can't afford the monitors that prevent SUDEP, or any other equipment to ensure our son is safe, and since he does have nocturnal seizures every once in a while, I'm not willing to risk losing my baby so I can get a good night's rest with my husband.
Thankfully in our case, sleeping in separate rooms doesn't put a damper on our marriage. In fact, in some ways, I think it makes our marriage better. I kiss my husband goodnight before he heads off to the other room to get a good night's sleep before he heads off to work early in the morning. And he always says "I love you" as he marches into our son's room with his pillow. Sleeping in separate rooms is part of our job as the parents of a boy with epilepsy. It's the only way my husband can function so he can get up for work and provide for his family. And it's the only way I have the peace of mind to know I do everything to make sure my son is safe. It's the best way I know how to prevent SUDEP with the resources we have at our disposal.
What do we plan to do about the fact that our little boy has taken over this king-sized bed and kicked his father into the other room? Absolutely nothing. On the nights when my husband doesn't have to get up for work in the morning, he hops into bed with us. They say what's seldom is wonderful, and, boy, do I look forward to those nights when I know they're coming. And we both know that some day, this little boy will be grown and won't want his mom sleeping in bed with him. He'll be off on his own, being everything he's meant to be.
It's bittersweet. On one hand, I look forward to the days that I'll get my sleep back. I dream of the rest and peace I so deeply need. And my husband looks forward to the day he can sleep in bed with his wife again. But on the other hand, we feel OK about it because it keeps our son safe. I know I'll miss it, too - snuggling close with my son and watching him dream. I'm painfully aware that these moments are fleeting. And as my husband peers in from the hallway, he, too, knows that sleeping in separate rooms is just a phase of our lives as parents that will be gone before we know it.
Stuff That Stocking With 1 of These 26 Disney Items and Knock Santa Off His Throne as #1 Gifter
When it comes to the gift-giving season, there's nothing quite like filling a stocking with tons of fun little surprises. And if you have a Disney fan on your hands, that makes picking things out that much easier. Whether you need an adorable small plush for the kids or kitchen gadgets for the budding chef, here are 26 stocking stuffers for the entire family.
I Should Probably Feel Bad About the Halloween Prank I Play on My Kids Every Year, but It's Just Too Good
I love everything about Halloween. From the creative and cute costumes, endless scary movie marathons, and creepy decorations to the haunted house outings and the trick-or-treating, I go all out every year. Since my kids are still pretty young (4 and 6), I have to keep my love for all things spooky in check, but that definitely doesn't mean I still don't have a little festive fun with them. And one of my very favorite Halloween traditions I started with my kids is playing a harmless prank on them every year.
I pick a day during the month of October (I don't do this on actual Halloween because they'll see it coming, so I pick a different day every year) and run to the dollar store to buy a ton of fake bugs, spider rings, and more. While my kids are still sound asleep, I tiptoe into their dark bedrooms and carefully place all of these pretend bugs on their beds. I tiptoe back out, get back into my own bed, and fall back asleep. And every year, my husband and I are woken up by their surprised screams and calls for help once they discover what's all over their beds.
"Ahhhhh! Get off of me!" I hear them yell. They run down the hallway and away from the bugs as fast as they can before quickly remembering the annual prank their dear old mom plays on them year after year. They then start belly laughing uncontrollably and run to check what was put in the other's bed. The hilarity is contagious and quickly fills out whole house with the Halloween spirit.
"Mom! You got us again!" they always say over breakfast that morning before carefully devising a plan to "get mom back." They never do, of course, but just listening to their imaginations think up funny Halloween pranks to play on me (like we're in our very own prank war) makes me feel like a kid again. It makes them even more excited for trick-or-treating, and I get to relive the innocent joys of the Halloween season all over again.
I'm going to keep this family tradition going as long as I can - even when my children are teenagers (I can't wait for those eye-rolls and to hear, "Mom, you're so embarrassing"). Because no matter how old they get, I always want to remember to be silly together, because the trick part can be just as good (if not better) than the treats.
Karma More Than Caught Up With Me After I Judged Moms Whose Kids Got Lice
When it came to kids getting lice, I used to be terribly (and unfairly) judgmental. I would think things like, "Kids with lice are dirty. They must not wash their hair." That is, until all three of my daughters came down with a nasty case of the itchy head bugs. Now I know how wrong I was about what getting lice actually entails, and I'm here to apologize to every other parent I ever judged because of it.
It truly is nobody's fault. Lice happens, especially when you have young kids, and I was so wrong for ever judging other parents for it.
My presumption that head lice is disgusting is pretty much the only thing I was right about before my girls got it. And let me say up front that I lived by the false belief my children would never get lice. I washed their hair every other day and am very diligent when it comes to germs (a lot of people have called me a germaphobe, which . . . accurate). Seriously, it never dawned on me my kid could get lice. That's why when I was bathing my girls one evening a few years ago and I saw a bug in the hair of my youngest, I thought it was a gnat. Until I found another "gnat." And then another. Horrified, I began frantically picking through my other girls' hair. To say I was shocked to discover they all had lice would be the understatement of my parenting career.
I'm sure I scared the girls, but I started crying and called my husband in a panic. "Bring home lice kits!" I hollered at him, my voice and hands shaking. The next 24 hours of our lives were the most revolting since we all had the stomach flu at the same time. Until you've combed lice and their nits out of three kids' hair until midnight together, let's just say you haven't truly bonded with your significant other.
The entire process of ridding lice from the house was exhausting and humbling. The smell of the chemicals was enough to make me want to hurl. And the intense urge to itch my own head every two seconds became involuntary. Then came the fun task of washing every single piece of bedding in our house. We sprayed our furniture down and isolated the girls' stuffed animals, much to their dismay. After it was all said and done, I looked back at how I'd judged other families with an outbreak of lice and felt awful. Because I now understood how when lice strikes your house, life gets put on hold until it's eradicated.
It truly is nobody's fault. Lice happens, especially when you have young kids, and I was so wrong for ever judging other parents for it. I also learned lice are more commonly attracted to clean hair, so my theory that only kiddos with dirty tresses get lice was totally off. In fact, since my kids had it, we now only wash their hair once or twice a week, and I have them spray or gel their hair with product before school every day to try to keep this from ever happening again.
To all the parents out there who are reading this and thinking lice could never crawl their way into your house, I hope my story will serve as a warning. Karma more than caught up with me for judging moms whose kids got lice. And I'll never judge again.
We Give MANY Hufflef*cks About These Harry Potter Swear Word Wine Glasses
Anyone who has a soft spot for Ron Weasley or even Dobby knows there is nothing better in the muggle world than curling up in a blanket and binging the entire Harry Potter movie franchise in one sitting. And no matter if you're a tried-and-true Gryffindor or strictly identify with the Hufflepuff house, these Harry Potter Swear Word Wine Glasses ($32 for all four) are going to be your new favorite movie marathon accessories, particularly if you enjoy a good glass of vino and let the occasional F-bomb slip. Hey, we're all human! Scroll through to get a peek at the whole collection and try not to empty your entire bank account in the process.
22 Harry Potter Ornaments That’ll Make Your Tree Look Like the Ones in Hogwarts
If you're a Harry Potter fan, you've no doubt spent long periods of time caught up in your own daydreams about what it would be like to spend Christmas at Hogwarts. The Great Hall, full of trees dragged in and decorated by Hagrid, pumpkin juice served up with meals, a Christmas feast followed by a game of Wizards' Chess - sounds utterly delightful. Since we're not at Hogwarts, however, there's no reason our own trees can't hold a little bit of wizards' magic in them to at least make us feel a bit like we're away at school with our best wizard and witch friends.
Ahead, our favorite Harry Potter ornaments that'll make your muggle tree feel magical.
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.
Grab Your Pup! These Matching Dog and Owner Costumes Will Get You in the Halloween Spirit
For Halloween fanatics, finding the perfect costume for the night is a long, drawn-out process. And while we like a well-thought-out group ensemble or even a "punny" get-up with your significant other, squeezing your dog into a costume takes the cake - just based on effort alone.
Although not every pupper enjoys wearing clothes, sometimes getting in on the fun by sporting a matching or themed costume does the trick. Interested in dressing up with your dog this year? Then look no further, because we've rounded up some of the most inspiring tandem costumes for you and your pooch, and yes, they'll definitely turn some heads! Scroll through to get your creative juices flowing.
This Mom Put a Terrifying Spin on Elf on the Shelf, and Hello, Nightmares!
Natasha Hudarovich, a mom with a wicked sense of humor, decided to shake things up this Halloween. In a now-viral Facebook post, she explained how she swapped out her kids' traditional Elf on the Shelf experience with a much more sinister, Halloween-themed idea called "Doll in the Hall," and we're not sure whether we should laugh or cry.
"Instead of an Elf on the Shelf in December, I'm doing a Doll in the Hall in October," wrote Natasha. "Basically, you take a creepy Annabel porcelain doll that your kids already believe is haunted and keep secretly moving it around the house. For an extra festive touch I put the doll right in bed with one of the kids whenever they throw it in the trash. It's Day 3 and they want to move."
Although you definitely need to have certain types of kids to ensure they don't sleep in your bed until the ripe old age of 16 after going through this, Natasha's idea gets bonus points for creativity. As someone who was often pranked by her own parents as a kid, I certainly applaud her.
What Do You Even Gift a 1-Year-Old? Here Are 31 Brilliant Stocking Stuffer Ideas
If you have a few 1-year-olds on your gift list this holiday season but have absolutely no idea what to get them as a gift, you're not alone. Buying gifts for a child so young can be tricky, but wanting to include them in every part of Christmas morning, including unloading a stocking of goodies, is something you can definitely make possible.
Whether you're looking for gifts for your own baby or need inspiration for someone else's 1-year-old, find some of our favorite stocking stuffer gifts (aka small and perfectly sized for tiny hands) for this age group below.
You Won't Believe the Things Elementary School Kids Write to Jimmy Fallon
There's no group of people more creative than elementary school kids, so when it came time to ask for suggestions for new games and jokes on his show, Jimmy Fallon knew exactly who to ask. During Monday night's episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the host read through some iconic letters from young kids, and the suggestions were next level. One 8-year-old girl wrote Jimmy that he was funny, "but not a nuf," while another asked for "luck charms" and provided a suggestion on how to "be cooler."
The best letter came from a young girl named Breanna who recommended a staring contest with "a twist!" (her words, not ours) involving potato chips and an incredibly competitive Shaquille O'Neal. Watch the video above to see what happened when Jimmy took Breanna's suggestion very seriously for one of the greatest staring contests of all time!
We're All Starry-Eyed Over Carrie Underwood's Gorgeous AMAs Gown
Leave it to Carrie Underwood to bring Old Hollywood glamour to the American Music Awards. The singer, who's pregnant with her second child with husband Mike Fisher, looked absolutely beautiful on the red carpet. For her big night out, Carrie embraced the Fall weather in a stunning velvet gown, Le Silla heels, and L'Dezen by Payal Shah jewels. It featured a dreamy celestial pattern across the bodice, and she bared some skin with the dress's thigh-high slit and cutout sleeves. Keep reading to get a closer look.
Hot Damn - the AMAs Red Carpet Was the Fashion Party We Weren't Prepared For
We didn't know a Tuesday night could be so stylish. But with a red carpet fronted by Tracee Ellis Ross, who brought the heat in glamorous looks - this year spotlighting talented black designers - we should've been prepared for a host of musicians to show up in looks ready to wow that followed Tracee's lead.
Taylor Swift arrived in Balmain metallics, and Cardi B wore a Dolce & Gabbana garden of a gown. So while there were crystallized bodysuits to see on stage, these outrageously sexy numbers came first. Read on to see what everyone was wearing as they exited their limos and posed for the cameras, then see our picks for best dressed. Let's just say the evening's entertainment was a little more exciting than resuming your Netflix binge.
Tracee Ellis Ross Turned the AMAs Into Her Own Epic Runway
Ahead of the American Music Awards, host Tracee Ellis Ross promised her looks would have one key thing in common: they would all feature black designers. She delivered - and then some! - with a lineup of unforgettable looks. From a hot-pink printed pantsuit designed by Selam Fessahaye, a 34-year-old black designer from Amsterdam, that Ross wore to roll out the red carpet to a glamorous tulle confection by Off-White's Virgil Abloh, the actress turned the stage into one epic runway show.
Scroll ahead for more pictures of Tracee's colorful outfits on the red carpet and on stage, and see how she transformed the award show into something of an iconic fashion show, with a roster of talented designers behind every dazzling look.
The 7 Best Dressed Women at the AMAs
Our Tuesday night got a style upgrade thanks to the red carpet at the American Music Awards. Performers, presenters, and nominees embraced the creative dress code with a lineup of looks that have one thing in common: they're a reflection of the women wearing them. In each case, personal style is what sets these arrivals apart from the rest, so you know that's Jennifer Lopez when you see her sexy, fuchsia gown or recognize Tracee Ellis Ross immediately in a quirky-cool pantsuit. Like the seasons before it, this red carpet is a place to make a splashy entrance and have fun with your look - these seven women show us how it's done.
Cardi B Basically Wore a Whole Damn Garden to the AMAs
The minute Cardi B stepped foot on the American Music Awards red carpet, you know she was turning heads. The 25-year-old rapper walked side by side with husband Offset on Oct. 9, and of course she opted for an outfit that was leagues beyond most award show gowns.
Her floral, corseted dress featured a voluminous gathered skirt with a sexy slit through the center. She paired the bold ensemble with a matching headpiece, gold statement earrings, and wraparound floral heels. Your favorite harlequin romance heroine could never. Check out more snaps of her extraordinary outfit ahead, and then see what other stars wore during their night on the red carpet.
Forget Pretty, Jennifer Lopez Is a Red Carpet Queen in Pink
It's Tuesday night, and we're throwing on our sweats and wondering what to order for dinner when Jennifer Lopez blindsided us all on the American Music Awards red carpet. The multitalented performer arrived in a floor-length, megawatt fuchsia Georges Chakra Couture gown that served up some sexy peeks of skin. Consider this look your midweek fashion pick-me-up, delivered as only J Lo could.
Read on for a glimpse of the standout look from all angles.
H&M's Coats Are Beyond Dreamy This Season - These 11 Are Under $100
We don't need to tell you twice that H&M is known for its stylish and affordable finds, and this season did not disappoint. The popular retailer just dropped an assortment of stylish new coats that we just can't get enough of. Ahead, you'll find 11 chic choices that are great for every occasion and climate. From fuzzy teddy choices to classic trenches, all these picks cost less than $100. What are you waiting for? Find yours before it's too late.
Dua Lipa's Red Carpet Look Seems to Be Especially Inspired by 1 of Her Tattoos
It's hard to resist falling in love with Dua Lipa's American Music Awards gown. The 23-year-old British singer left her rebellious alter-ego "Electra" at home while she walked the red carpet in a delicate outfit on Oct. 9. She opted for an off-the-shoulder Giambattista Valli gown, that cinches at her knees in a mermaid-style silhouette.
Could this all-white outfit be a nod to her sweet "angel" shoulder tattoo? She certainly looks heavenly. To give the stunning ensemble an edgy twist, Dua paired the dress with a Cartier necklace resembling a metal nail. Keep reading to see her AMAs gown from all angles, and make sure you check out more of the sexiest red carpet looks.
If Taylor Swift's Look Reminds You of a Disco Ball, You're Spot On
Taylor Swift's name was on everyone's lips on Tuesday before she even arrived at the American Music Awards in a metallic minidress and matching thigh-high boots. After breaking her silence on politics (It's about time, Tay!) and endorsing two democratic candidates for the midterms, she could've shown up on the red carpet in a t-shirt and turned heads. Nevertheless, she pulled out all the stops in a sexy silver minidress and some serious boots. And, in case the disco ball reference wasn't already clear, her footwear came equipped with tiny disco balls set right into the heels. Yes, really.
The coordination, the high-impact shine, the sexy fit - it's all so very . . . Kim Kardashian? Beyonce? Taylor can certainly pull off the Balmain look, but it's definitely a departure for the performer, and one you need to see up close. Read on to see her red carpet takeover at the AMAs now.
"Sexy" Might Just Be the Unofficial Dress Code at the AMAs
A-listers like the ever-so-stylish Tracee Ellis Ross celebrated the year's biggest moments in music at the American Music Awards on Tuesday. Trust us when we say that these celebs turned up the heat on the red carpet. From Taylor Swift's disco-ball-inspired dress and thigh-high boots to Vanessa Hudgens's sultry light pink dress with cutouts, there was no shortage of sex appeal. Keep reading for a look at the sexiest dresses that hit the 2018 AMAs red carpet.
10 of Meghan Markle's Iconic Fashion Moments to Re-Create For Halloween
Let's face it, 2018 is the year of Meghan Markle. Not only did she marry a real-life prince, but she's also become a bona-fide fashion icon. So it makes sense that the Duchess of Sussex is set to be one of the most popular Halloween costumes of the year. To help you be the most stylish Meghan at your Halloween party, we've rounded up the items you need to give your costume a little "Markle Sparkle."
Of course we'll be breaking down her iconic wedding day look, but if you're afraid you'll get lost in a sea of bateau-neck white gowns and tiaras, we've got plenty of other Meghan-inspired costume ideas for you to choose from as well. The best part? All the items are so stylish, you'll want to wear them after Halloween is over too.
The Not-So-Basic Pants Everyone Should Own
If we had to choose one wardrobe staple to buy this season, it would have to be a pair of versatile black pants. Whether you're headed to the office, out with friends, or just relaxing on the weekend, you can't go wrong with these chic classics. The best part: they'll never go out of style. To help you get a jump-start on the perfect wardrobe for Fall and Winter, we curated a list of our favorites. From elevated sporty picks to cozy wide-leg choices, you won't be disappointed. Keep scrolling to see the ones we want ASAP.
After Years of Searching, I Found the Perfect Black Boots For Both Work and Weekends
If I had a nickel for every pair of black boots I have tried, I'd still be broke from buying shoes, but I'd have a lot of nickels. You get the idea. The boots I have tested are either really cute but terribly uncomfortable or easy to walk in but hideous. Finding a perfect balance seemed next to impossible. At long last, I discovered a design I can walk in all day without sacrificing style. These gorgeous Vagabond Simone Leather Boots ($195) are my new go-tos.
These Chelsea boots are sleek and versatile - you can wear them with denim, dresses, and everything in between. The block heel and tall shaft provide my foot with support. I can stand in these shoes for hours without an ounce of discomfort. The leather is beautiful, and the boots look well-made. After wearing them for just one day, I received several compliments.
If you're on the hunt for a boot you can wear over and over again, give this Vagabond pair a try. I love them so much, I plan on investing in a few more styles.
This Fall Staple Has Been Around For So Long, You Probably Forgot How to Wear It
We're sure that, at one point, you owned a sweater dress you wore to death, perhaps styled with knee-high boots or tights. Blake Lively's Gossip Girl character Serena van der Woodsen provided more than enough inspiration a few years back, after all. But the one-and-done outfit happens to look a little different these days, with midi length versions being introduced in electrifying shades, and ladies on the street coming up with impeccable style rules - i.e. "must layer with shirting underneath." The sweater dress is being reintroduced into our wardrobes as a trend this season, which means there are cozy, oversize silhouettes abound for you to shop. That is, right after you take our advice for how to wear them.
I Was an Overpacker All My Life Until I Did This 1 Thing
I'm not going to lie: I always pack more outfits than I need to for a trip. Always. Being a habitual overpacker is one bad habit that has stuck with me for as long as I can remember. So, when the Swedish clothing brand Ellos invited me on a four-day press trip to Stockholm to celebrate the launch of National Lagom Day, I went about my normal ways after reading the invite and immediately started dreaming up 20 different outfits to pack. What can I say? A girl needs options.
Then it hit me - lagom. As Anne Stephenson, senior vice president of Ellos, said, "Life is about finding your happy medium. The message of 'lagom' is to discover peace in the simple things - a mantra that we have adopted at Ellos." I took a second to take it all in. Lagom is the Swedish word for "just the right amount." I decided that I shouldn't wait to get to Stockholm to find my happy medium when I could start right now.
Instead of trying to squeeze everything I owned into my bag, I made it my mission to be resourceful, without sacrificing style. I turned to pieces I love that could transition easily from activities and pull double duty on my trip. Here I was living the lagom life - and I hadn't even gotten to Sweden yet. Read on to see what I packed, and use these hacks to bring a little lagom to your life, too.
BRB, Adding Kendall Jenner’s Cozy Look to My Fall Vision Board
If there's one wardrobe staple I can't wait to bring out of hiding this season, it's my collection of cozy sweaters, and Kendall Jenner's latest outing just reminded me that there's one more I need to add to the pile. After a hectic few weeks walking in Fashion Month shows all around the world, the supermodel stepped out in Los Angeles for dinner with some friends.
Kendall sported a '90s-chic look in a cozy, mustard-colored cardigan that she wore over a spaghetti strap bandeau crop top and a pair of high-waisted blue jeans. Maybe it's the slight chill in the air or the fact that I'm a sucker for a comfy-looking button-ups, but just looking at these pics is making me want to add even more jumpers to the already-growing collection in my closet. Read ahead to see more pics of Kendall's design and to shop similar styles for yourself.
This Easy, Comfortable Fall Outfit Is the Alternative to Your Classic Jeans
This season, we're really only interested in wearing things that are comfortable and make us feel good. Enter the sweater dress. It's cozy, practical, and an outfit in and of itself. You can wear it to the office, to drinks with friends, or just laying around the house. Talk about versatile. If you're interested in some new Fall outfit inspiration, look no further.
Gwyneth Paltrow Just Showed Off a Second Diamond Ring, and It's Beautiful
Gwyneth Paltrow married Brad Falchuk in a private ceremony at their home in the Hamptons. In case you need a refresher, the starlet had everyone thinking that she already got married in an oxblood one-shoulder Giambattista Valli gown during her star-studded bash back in April 2018.
For their actual big day, the adorable couple was surrounded by A-listers like Jerry Seinfeld, Cameron Diaz, and Steven Speilberg. While we're not sure what Gwyn wore, we're pretty sure that if her wedding dress was anything like her wedding band, it's beautiful.
Gwyn and Brad showed off their matching gold wedding bands that were simple and sleek. The couple opted for the minimalist route by choosing thin gold bands. During an event for Goop in London, the actress paired her simple gold band with a second diamond encrusted style instead of her engagement ring. Read on to get a closer look at both of her rings and shop similar versions ahead if you're feeling particularly inspired.
POPSUGAR at Kohl's Just Released New Pieces - Shop Them All Before It's Too Late!
If you've been loving our POPSUGAR at Kohl's Collection, we've got good news: we just released even more covetable pieces for you to shop. Coming in sizes 0-24 and ringing it at under $85, these essentials are what we live in, love in, and play in. Our latest drop includes comfy dresses, work-ready tops, cozy sweatshirts, versatile joggers, a sleek tracksuit, and much more. Take a look at these brand-new designs, and treat yourself to something special for October. They're currently online-only items, so add them to your virtual cart ASAP!
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