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 19 octobre 2018
Consider This Wishful Thinking, but What If Nicky Is Actually Still Alive on This Is Us?
This Is Us has been full of crazy twists over the past three seasons, but one of the biggest curveballs was that Jack Pearson (Milo Ventimiglia) actually has a younger brother named Nicky (Michael Angarano). In the latest episode, "Vietnam," we got a closer look at the Pearson boys' bond, and the whole thing is incredibly bittersweet. Just like with Jack's storyline, we're slowly falling in love with a character that is no longer alive in present day. While Jack tells Rebecca that his younger brother died in the war, what if the show is actually setting us up for another shocking twist?
Consider this wishful thinking, but maybe Nicky is still alive. Since episode four aired, a few theories have been circulating about the fate of the younger Pearson brother, and they're pretty convincing. Perhaps when Jack says Nicky died, he means that the brother he knew died, and the war ultimately changed him. Reddit user dweigle27 even suggests that Nicky went AWOL or MIA after the war, and Jack tells people he died to protect him. He is always being his little brother's Superman.
Nicky could actually still be living in Vietnam for that matter. Not only could it connect to the theory that Nicky has a relationship with the Vietnamese woman wearing Jack's necklace, but it would also set up Kevin's upcoming visit to Vietnam. Maybe while learning about Jack's past, he actually finds his uncle. Talk about a crazy family reunion! Whether Nicky is alive or not, we definitely can't wait to see how his story unfolds in the coming episodes.
Remember Those Horrifying Monsters in A Quiet Place? John Krasinski Played One of Them
John Krasinski and Emily Blunt hushed us into complete suspense in A Quiet Place. Not only did John direct and costar in the film, but as revealed in an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live, he also played the sound-sensitive monsters. Donning a motion picture suit, Krasinski crawled around exactly how he imagined the scary beings would move. And if you have any doubts about the validity of his dedication to portraying the monsters, Kimmel whipped out a hilarious photo of Krasinski in full character as an other-worldly beast.
"Yeah . . . that's embarrassing," John joked as soon as he saw the photo. "They took that picture, and I thought I was auditioning for Lion King. I don't know what's going on in that. I was there, though, just dialed in."
Krasinski also talked about getting to star alongside his wife, calling her the "classiest, smartest, most dedicated actress I've ever known." Watch him talk more about costarring with Blunt as well as suiting up to play a terrifying fiend in the clip above.
How Many Great-Grandchildren Does the Queen Have? Get to Know Her Smallest Royal Relatives
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are expecting their first child, and along with the potential of earning a fancy title and A-list godparents, the new addition will also be joining an elite squad of adorable (and slightly mischievous) royal cousins when they become the queen's eighth great-grandchild.
As you may know, Queen Elizabeth II has four children - Charles, Anne, Andrew, and Edward - who have two kids each. So, who are the youngsters that the queen is proud to call her great-grandchildren? Keep reading to learn more about Her Majesty's seven smallest relatives before they become a pack of eight!
Roseanne Barr Is Not Pleased With the "Morbid" Way The Conners Killed Off Her Character
The Conners premiered its first episode on Tuesday night, finally putting to rest any speculation about how the Roseanne spinoff deals with the absence of Roseanne Barr's titular character.
Barr's initial reboot of the show was of course axed by ABC after a string of vile, racist tweets and abrasive behavior from the 65-year-old, and she revealed during an interview a few weeks before the The Conners premiere that the show planned on killing off Roseanne Conner via opioid overdose. Now that we know that is indeed how the character dies - she overdoses on medication prescribed to her following knee surgery - Barr is speaking out about how disappointed she is with the twist in a joint statement with her Rabbi, Shmuley Boteach.
"While we wish the very best for the cast and production crew of The Conners, all of whom are deeply dedicated to their craft and were Roseanne's cherished colleagues, we regret that ABC chose to cancel Roseanne by killing off the Roseanne Conner character," the statement reads. "That it was done through an opioid overdose lent an unnecessary grim and morbid dimension to an otherwise happy family show. This was a choice the network did not have to make. Roseanne was the only show on television that directly addressed the deep divisions threatening the very fabric of our society. Specifically, the show promoted the message that love and respect for one another's personhood should transcend differences in background and ideological discord."
Dan Conner mourning the loss of his wife.
While Roseanne Conner might have been liberal-leaning and embraced her LGBTQ+ friends in the original run of the sitcom, Barr's reimagining of the character saw her values more closely aligned with her real-life views - supporting Donald Trump and irrationally fearing her Muslim neighbors, for instance. The fact she ended up spewing hateful, racist garbage on Twitter should not have come as a surprise to anyone. Despite that, the statement also tried to bring up Roseanne's history of bringing together "characters of different political persuasions and ethnic backgrounds in one, unified family, a rarity in modern American entertainment."
The statement concludes by calling for forgiveness for Barr, describing her character as "a strong, matriarchal woman in a leading role," and declaring that "Our society needs to heal on many levels. What better way for healing than a shared moment, once a week, where we could have all enjoyed a compelling storyline featuring a witty character - a woman - who America connected with, not in spite of her flaws, but because of them."
Barr also decided to tweet out another respectful, rational reaction to the news, in case anyone missed the point after reading through the statement:
I AIN'T DEAD, BITCHES!!!!
- Roseanne Barr (@therealroseanne) October 17, 2018
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Just Reinvented the Art of Hand-Holding, and We're a Wreck
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal tour of Australia is starting to look more like a Nicholas Sparks movie, wouldn't you agree? Between Meghan and Harry giving each other heart-eyes and their sweet gestures for one another, it's clear that these two are royally in love. To top it all off, during the couple's stop in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday, Harry and Meghan shared another tender moment that you probably missed.
As the pair were being shown an Aboriginal art mural, Harry, who was already holding one of his wife's hands, reached behind his back with his other hand and lovingly stroked hers with his thumb. Aw! We're only four days into their 16-day tour, and something tells us there will be even more cute moments to come.
30 Last-Minute Geeky Costume Ideas You Can Easily Put Together
No matter how hard you try, sometimes planning your Halloween costume happens at the very last second. Don't start stressing out and instead, look ahead for inspiration on geeky ideas you can DIY or maybe even find someone who might own the costume already. Some of these are even great for a group or BFF costume! Take a look and don't stress - we promise you'll find something!
10 Facts About Disney's Animal Kingdom Even Superfans Probably Don't Know
Disney's Animal Kingdom park is absolutely beautiful. It takes you out of the hot Orlando sun and right into the savannas of Africa, a village in Asia, and even a roadside carnival. Imagineers - the team that makes the storylines and builds everything for Disney Parks and Resorts - put this park together with so much detail that you could never take it in all in one day. We've uncovered some wild facts about the Animal Kingdom that even the biggest Disney fans probably won't know. Keep reading to test your knowledge, and earn more Disney stripes!
If You're Traveling, We Found 10 Perfect Pieces to Pack
Whether you're headed out of town for two days or two weeks, it can feel tempting to want to pack everything you own, and then feel stuck when you forgot the one thing you actually needed. Our advice? Pack in outfits, and build your looks around versatile pieces, like the perfect sweater or cool trench. We were looking for some easy, versatile pieces to complete our wardrobe, so we made them! These are the perfect picks to add to your suitcase, all from the POPSUGAR at Kohl's collection.
The Philogynist Pledge - 10 Ways Men Can Support the Women's Movement
The following post was originally published on Medium.
I believe that in order for the women's movement to be effective, a corollary men's movement must be present. I take this pledge as a way to state my conscious support in moving forward to change a broken system.
1. I Will Lead by Example in the Way I Talk About Women
I know that my children and friends pick up on the generalizations I make about women, whether positive or negative. Intentionally or not, I shape their identity about what it is to be a woman, and how to expect to be treated for being one.
2. I Will Not Accept Traditional Role Models
I believe that a true partnership between the sexes demands a different concept of marriage, an equitable sharing of the responsibilities of home and children, and economic support of the family.
3. I Will Raise My Children to Believe in Gender Equality
I will encourage children to embrace their individual interests and passions, regardless of their gender. The things they can't do will become obvious on their own, and the rest will become possible if they are allowed to dream and have role models.
4. I Will Not Stand For Violence Against a Woman
If a relative, friend, classmate, or teammate is abusive to women, I will not look the other way. I will try to talk to him about it, urge him to seek help, or consult a friend, a parent, or counselor.
5. I Will Mentor Women and Offer Equal Access
If I am in a position to help, I will find at least one woman (and ideally, several) to mentor. Give her thoughtful input on how she can advance and put her name forward for challenging assignments and promotions.
6. I Will Call Out Qualities Other Than Physical Beauty
I will remind her that it is not only appearance that matters. I will focus on positive things about women without pedastalizing. I won't pretend that her looks will never matter, but I will encourage her not to judge herself or let herself be judged only on looks.
7. I Will Make Sure There Is Always Clear Consent
I will be aware of the implicit power dynamic that are often present in sexual relationships between men and women. I am aware that consent is clear, unambiguous, and involves the word yes. It is not the absence of a no.
8. I Will Not Support Politicians Who Marginalize Women
I will not support politicians at any level of government who betray or ignore the principle idea of equal rights and opportunities for all sexes.
9. I Will Learn About the History of the Women's March
I will learn about the history of the women's movement so I can educate youth on what the women of history have done, and how their sacrifices made possible the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.
10. I Will Accept Discomfort
I understand that changing a broken system takes work, and it won't always feel good. Conversations about sexism, racism, transphobia, privilege, cultural appropriation, and other social issues are all related. I will accept discomfort as an important sign that we are making progress and we still have a lot to learn.
How to Be the Very Last Guest in Disney World at the End of the Day
Every Mickey Mouse fan knows that Walt Disney World is a truly magical place, especially at night! It's hard not to snap photos every few seconds, but if you've seen those empty (and awesome) Main Street, U.S.A. photos, you're probably wondering how people got lucky enough to get those without the massive crowds in the background. Well, we're here let you in on a few strategies to get those empty park photos and be the last guest out of the Magic Kingdom each night (or any of the other three Walt Disney World parks) for a truly magical ending to the day. Typically, it takes an hour and a half to two hours after the park closes to get these empty Main Street, U.S.A. photos, but it's so worth it. Keep reading for three ways to be the last guest at a Disney Park.
Venus Is in Retrograde Right Now, and Here's How It Will Affect You
Venus is currently in retrograde for 2018. If you've been feeling a shift in your life lately, this is likely the culprit! Venus in retrograde began on Oct. 5 and will be continuing until Nov. 16. This can impact your life in many ways. Whether it's feeling more impulsive, changes in your love life, or bringing things to light . . . we can blame it on the stars! POPSUGAR reached out to Jinn, an astrologist from Angels Oasis, via email to find out more about Venus in retrograde and how it will impact your life. She warns that some of us may be in for a bumpy ride, but the good news is we will be riding out to fix potholes in the road.
Love Life
Since Venus is known to stir things up, your love life may be affected. Whether this is an old lover resurfacing or a committed relationship with problems arising, something may come to light that causes uncomfortable tension. This can be the perfect time to work these past issues out and move forward in a positive way.
Personal Life
Jinn says this will be a time to clear the air and have understanding, compassion, and respect. The next few weeks might be emotional and uncomfortable, but they are necessary.
Work Life
While Venus is in retrograde, we may find interpersonal relationships to be strained. This may cause issues with business interactions, as it can be harder to connect with others. Be careful with your words.
Your Well-Being
Things may be coming up to the surface that affect your well-being. Jinn suggests that you stop and take a breath when you feel your stress and emotions rising.
Making Changes
Jinn says that the retrograde begins in the sign of Scorpio. She refers to Scorpio as the Sherlock Holmes of the zodiac. She warns that if there are things to be uncovered, Scorpio will find them. In the end, however, the changes that will happen will be in your best interest. Make them wisely!
Misunderstandings
Jinn advises that you have an opportunity to find out why others react the way that they do. It can help you and others to tell your truth, but be mindful not to cause unnecessary harm. You will be rethinking your own actions, and it may bring unknown intentions out to light.
As Early Voting Begins, Let Michelle Obama Remind You Why Your Vote Matters
If you wouldn't want your grandma to pick out your outfit or your uncle to post to your Instagram, why would you let strangers make even more important decisions for you? Michelle Obama makes a strong case for voting in this election in her most recent video for When We All Vote.
Starting today, all eligible voters can create a game plan to vote by visiting the When We All Vote website. Its new tools are a one-stop shop for voters. Click over to find your polling locations, learn if you can vote early or by mail, see who will be on your ballot, and research those candidates before heading to the polls. Then, go vote!
This Swear Word Christmas Packaging Is the Wrapping Paper Version of a Lump of Coal
There's something about being able to be both aggressive and lazy with your holiday gift-giving that's particularly appealing - it just has a nice ring to it. If you feel like you're the type who needs someone to know that, yes, you bought them a gift but you're not about to go watch a YouTube video about how to optimize tape and make cutesy bows, then you need to send a message. And we can't think of a better message to send than slipping a present inside of an aggressive Personalised Merry F*cking Christmas Sack ($16). Yes, you can be as extra as you want and even print one with their name on it. That way there's absolutely no mistaking who you want to have a Merry F*cking Christmas.
The Best Gifts For 9-Year-Olds in 2018
The 9-year-old on your list is precariously straddling the line between kid and tween. That's why we've rounded up our favorite toys to help them feel like they're making progress - but not leaving the toy world completely behind. From cozy socks that double as slippers to toys that interact with smartphones and gaming devices, here are our favorite picks for 9-year-olds.
- Additional reporting by Rebecca Gruber
For even easier shopping, click below for your needs.
37 Holiday Ornaments You Should Get Online, Because Why Leave the House?
Ever since I was a little girl, my mother and I would by a "special" ornament each year. We'd head to a department store armed with excitement, and begin our search for the perfect one. Usually coated in rhinestones, we'd buy our annual glitterball and head home with it. Our new keepsake would go front and center on the tree, surrounded by favorite ornaments we'd procured from year's past.
Whether you're looking for an enormous pack to cover the entire tree, or that one special dazzler you can add to your family tradition, these are 37 of our favorites.
What a Typical Morning Looks Like When Your Child Is a Chronic Illness "Warrior"
Sarah lives in Milford, CT, with her husband and 4-year-old son. Sarah is a writer who works from wherever she can. Mornings are never structured exactly as they need to be, but a little extra time to absorb the fleeting childhood moments will never come with regret. Here's a look at a typical morning driven by an extremely loving child who always takes his time getting out the door.
You Heard It Here: These Are the Top Kids Halloween Costumes This Year
As a parent, the last thing you want to do is wait until the third week in October to bring your excited child to the costume store to peruse the shelves - chances are, there won't be much left. Avoid this Halloween hang-up entirely by getting ahead of the game now. Whether your kid is obsessed with all things Star Wars or likes to stick to the classics, we found 39 options that you're going to see all over this year.
The 7 Words My Kids Hear Every Night Before Bed
My kids mess up. We apologize, forgive, and together decide what to do differently the next time. But then, we move on. I made a conscious choice a few years ago not to belabor their shortcomings.
Here's why.
Our kids have so many masters. Add to that a child who is incredibly eager to please, and even I am exhausted thinking about a goal of daily perfection with countless peers, teachers, coaches, parents, grandparents, and more. My eldest daughter is that kid; a capital P pleaser. (It takes one to know one.)
I wish I could fast forward her to where I am now - with a very small handful of people whose opinions matter to me - beyond one that's divine and those living under my roof. It is my and my husband's job to help her get there, but realistically, the urge to impress is likely to increase before it wanes.
When she was 7 years old, I started to notice a recurring theme at bedtime, one of worry, a fear of failing and falling short of expectations. She suddenly used the words "overwhelmed" and "scared" a lot and seemed to have the weight of the world on her shoulders. My heart sank at the familiar feeling.
First, I was angry that she had such an intense need to please at such a young age. But then, I was the same way, especially with my parents. I remember falling asleep on nights after I had disappointed them or we'd exchanged harsh words, wondering if they'd be proud to call me their own.
Every night, I tell her in seven simple words: I am proud to be your mom.
Funny that unconditional love, which was never in question, alone was not enough. I wanted their approval too. This flashback inspired a habit I hoped would help my daughter turn off and truly rest. Every night, I tell her in seven simple words: I am proud to be your mom.
Behind the words is a silent mantra. It varies but generally includes these musings: The day is done. Flaws are expected. Mistakes teach us. The score is settled. The details don't matter. You are forgiven. You are loved. You are mine. And every single night, despite hard stuff, my head hits the pillow with immeasurable gratitude that I get to be yours.
I say the seven words to all three of my kids, but it was my eldest who made me realize it was necessary.
If I'm honest, 17 years into a career, 12 into a marriage, and nine into parenting my own children, there are still few things that give me the same zing of encouragement or punch of deflation than my parents' response to me or my choices. I don't know if one ever outgrows that. As a teenager, I occasionally heard my grandmother criticize my mom and imagined how much it must've hurt.
I'd like my kids to care less what others think, and we talk about it a lot in our house. But while we navigate that together, I never want them to question where they stand with me. My hope is that our routine bedtime exchange will remind them, no matter how many not-so-awesome choices they made or how harshly I reacted when they poorly handled a situation with a friend, disrespected an adult, or even lost an article of clothing (AGAIN), they have my unconditional love and no-strings-attached approval. Maybe, just maybe, it will make them less likely to overdo it when it comes to seeking approval from others.
One night, about a year after I started using the seven words, I heard a "Hey Mom!" in the darkness and paused pulling the door shut just in time to catch a sweet third-grade voice saying, "I'm proud to be your daughter, too!"
"Thanks, honey!" was all I could muster before I feared she would detect the ugly, happy cry brewing.
Now, on days when I feel like I am failing at this parenting thing, that memory reassures me. And I can rest better too.
How I Had an Empowering Conversation With My Young Daughter About Sex
I didn't expect to be having conversations with my daughter about sex and bodies when she was still in preschool, but that is what happened. When she was 3, we had our very first parent-teacher conference. I went in, expecting pretty much nothing other than her teachers marveling that she's so smart and that she paints, plays with clay, sings, and pees in the toilet. And I did get that, but I also got a very hesitant report from the teachers about Thora's use of language.
"She said, 'My mama has giant nipples,'" one teacher told me while blushing furiously. My initial reaction was to assure them that I do not, in fact, have giant nipples, although compared to her own, I can see why Thora would think that. Instead, I furrowed my brow. "Is this a problem?" I wondered. Thora nursed well into my second pregnancy and then watched me nurse her sister for more than two years. My younger daughter still nurses from time to time. Of course Thora has seen my nipples and my naked body. But so what? She also likes her own naked body so much that she'll often declare, "I want to be naked!" and strip right down to her birthday suit.
I work to normalize their curiosity and address things directly. I encourage my kids to listen to their bodies and love them no matter what. And I worry all the time that I'm not doing the right thing.
One of the other teachers turned bright pink and took a deep breath. Apparently, Thora also remarked offhandedly one day that she could see this teacher's vagina, which startled the teacher into thinking she had a hole in her pants or was otherwise exposing herself. But no. Thora's in preschool. When she's standing and a grown-up woman is sitting, she's at vagina height. Thinking about it from that perspective, is it really so weird?
"I'm trying to teach her to love her body and bodies in general," I said to them. "Shouldn't she grow up to be a confident woman who loves her own body?" I also explained that, as far as I could tell, Thora says "vagina" the same way she says "elbow." She knows her vagina is for her alone and that nobody should ever touch it other than her. But she doesn't know it's a secret word that she shouldn't say. After all, she knows about half the population has one. I also said it is very important to me that my daughters grow up not having the body dysmorphia and self-loathing that I have. So I work to normalize their curiosity and address things directly. I encourage my kids to listen to their bodies and love them no matter what. And I worry all the time that I'm not doing the right thing.
In the end, I chose not to say anything to Thora about what her teachers told me. I debated it but then decided I didn't want her to feel ashamed for using the correct words and for being curious and expressive. So I let it go and worried for days whether I made the right choice.
A year later, she became very interested in how bodies make babies, and I felt it would be better for me to answer her questions than to ignore them and have her ask her friends. I thought about all the wild misinformation about sex and sexuality that can be spread among kids who aren't given the facts. I wanted her to hear it from me, and even though she's young for these kinds of discussions, I thought it would be better now, before she's old enough to squeal "ewww" and not want to talk about it with me at all. I knew she wasn't ready to talk about sexuality. I knew she wasn't asking me about intimacy, love, or affection. She really just wanted to know how babies are made.
At a friend's recommendation, we came upon the perfect book, called What Makes A Baby, that's given her all the facts and none of the "When two people love each other very much . . ." stuff. This book is free of gender, stereotypes, and assumptions. It's important to us that we raise children who are broadly aware that everybody is different, every family is different, and every kid has a different story. This is one way Thora is starting to understand that. Now she has language for how babies are made factually; she knows the words "egg," "sperm," and "uterus." She knows she came out of a hole cut in my belly in a hospital, while her sister came out of my vagina in the bathtub at home, and both are completely acceptable ways for babies to be born.
We also introduced the concept of "my body, my rules." My hope is that as she gets older, we can connect the two conversations. But for now, "my body, my rules" is an easy-to-remember, catchy phrase that helps us help her establish boundaries around her body. It works for playing, when it gets too rough or she's had enough. It works for tickling, which, to her, is sometimes fun and sometimes not. It works for things she normally loves (handholding, cuddling, kissing) and some things she's lukewarm on (being asked to hug people other than me, her father, and her sister). And as she gets older and asks more detailed questions about sex and intimacy, we can build on it. I'm just hopeful this is the right way to start.
Mom's Longing For "Ordinary Days" After Losing Her Son to Cancer Will Change Your Perspective on the Mundane
Heather Duckworth didn't realize that she was in a season of "good old days" until her world turned upside down in an instant when her son was diagnosed with cancer. In the days following her son's diagnosis, Heather spent long nights in the hospital with him, away from her three other kids, longing for the "ordinary days" - the normal, mundane days that made up her "old life."
Although Heather looks back now on the days of taking care of her son as a privilege, the mom penned a poignant piece reflecting on those ordinary days of her family's life before her son passed away, and her words will make you hold tight to the mundane routines we're all guilty of complaining about and taking for granted.
"Those normal, mundane days mean life is good. It means everyone is healthy. It means all is well."
"Before my son got sick, the days were long and busy. And they felt so monotonous . . . take care of kids, fix meals, pick up kids, clean up, play time, wash clothes, read stories, repeat," she wrote on her Facebook page, Love, Faith & Chaos. "My husband and I were barely surviving with four young boys running us ragged. I never thought of those days as special. They were hard and exhausting. But after my son got sick, I realized what a gift those ordinary days really are. And I missed them so much. So, whenever I start to feel overwhelmed with the busyness or bored with the mundane days of life, my heart reminds me to be thankful. And the memories flow through my mind, changing my perspective and reminding me to . . . slow down. Celebrate each day. Be thankful. Live intentionally. Choose joy. Laugh often. Love Big."
Since losing her son, Heather has been unable to look at an ordinary day in the same way. "Ordinary days are a treasured gift . . . yet so often we don't even realize it . . . until they are gone. Those normal days mean you are living and loving and growing," she wrote. "Those normal, mundane days mean life is good. It means everyone is healthy. It means all is well. It means we are showing up, trying our best and loving boldly. And those ordinary days add up to a life full of wonderful memories with the ones we love. And that is pretty extraordinary!"
I'm Never Going to Tell My Kids the Truth About Santa, Because Why Take Away the Magic?
My family loves Christmas. Like, really, really, really loves Christmas. Once Halloween is over (I'd skip it if my husband would let me), it's full-on North Pole in our house. I love everything about it: the music, the decorations, the lights, the smells, and the movies. Sure, presents are great, but the thing I love most, and have always loved most, about Christmas is the magic that it brings.
I was in sixth or seventh grade when [my parents] told me that Santa [isn't] real. It was soul crushing. The magic was gone. And in spite of my Christmas-crazy family, it never really came back.
When I was a kid, I would lay awake in bed listening for sleigh bells and the sound of reindeer hooves on the roof. Falling asleep seemed impossible, and when it finally happened, it was short-lived. My eyes would pop open in the middle of the night, and I'd quickly and quietly tiptoe down the stairs to our den. The big, colorful bulbs on our freshly cut tree lit up the room, revealing perfectly wrapped packages in shiny, festive paper. The whole room seemed to sparkle, and I was awestruck by the magic of it all. My excitement hit its peak when I would see that Santa ate the cookies we left for him. After that, I would wrap myself up on the couch. There was no going back to sleep, so I watched Nick at Nite, which, at the time, would play the Christmas episodes of The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Dick Van Dyke Show, until it seemed like a reasonable enough hour to go and announce to the rest of my family that Santa had come.
This was what Christmas was for me every year. Then, one year, my parents decided that I was "ready" to know the truth. I think I was in sixth or seventh grade when they told me that Santa is real, but only in our hearts. Or something like that. It hit me like a ton of bricks, because in spite of what they thought, I really wasn't ready to stop believing. It was soul crushing. The magic was gone. And in spite of my Christmas crazy family, it never really came back. That is, until my children came along. That excitement and magic I felt growing up is exactly what I want my children to feel, and I will never, ever, take that away from them, no matter how old they get.
So, I will order personalized, hand-written letters from the North Pole, we'll take them to see Santa, and we'll bake him an obscene amount of cookies. My husband and I will dangle out of our attic window so that our children hear sleigh bells as they're getting into bed, and if our kids believe in Santa until they're in their 20s, then so be it. I mean, there are worse things, right?
Looking back, no matter how many Christmas carols we sang, how many movies we watched, or how many presents we opened, it's the excitement of knowing that Santa had come that I remember most. I remember the youthful magic, and the devastating moment when my parents ruined it for me. So you know what? I'm going to keep my kids' Christmases as magical as I can for as long as I can.
11 Items I'll Be Removing From My Kids' Plastic Pumpkins This Halloween
Believe it or not, I'm not one of those moms who don't let their kids eat all of the Halloween candy. I've made amends that it's just going to be one sugar-filled bender of a night for them, and I'm OK with that. For my own personal sanity, however, there are a few items that I will always remove from my children's little plastic pumpkins. So if I'm going to make it through their post-Halloween hangover, then these types of candies simply must be eliminated.
Why I Want My Son to Interrupt You
"I. Sky. Look. Elephant. Elephant. Elephant," Charlie hits on his speaking device, the thing that looks just like an iPad.
Despite myself, I actually look at the sky. There is no elephant. Of course there isn't. Charlie snorts, and I hold his hands between mine before he can hit repeat. It's his favorite thing to do - fool me into thinking he's communicating, when really he's just playing. His best game? Hitting a million nonsensical buttons in a row to make his speaking device sound like it's hyperventilating.
"Charlie, I know you're being silly, but can you use your voice for me? Can you tell me about school?"
By the time Charlie grows up and leaves the nest, I want him so savvy on this speaking device that it's like watching a young Steve Jobs, maestro at the keys.
It's four o'clock in the afternoon and he's just had a full day of kindergarten, and I know the last thing he wants to do is more work. But I really do want to know how reading and PE went. Did he get out of his wheelchair at all? Did he interact with his friends? With my younger two kids, I take for granted their daily recitation of preschool - he ate a booger at lunch; she swung on the big kid swing all by herself; they both skipped naps. But with Charlie, each nugget of information is precious. His cerebral palsy limits his language to a handful of signs, gestures, and words. This speaking device is all about expanding that. I would rejoice if he told me he ate a booger.
We're working on the device now, so early in life, because I want him to be as independent as possible down the road - and having a voice is a giant part of that. He understands everything, can read, do math, and navigate an iPad like an old-school hacker, but no one is going to know these things if he can't find the words to tell them. The working world is not going to be swinging open its doors at his approach if he can't prove himself. I understand what he needs and wants without him having to say a word, but that's a mom thing, not a boss thing.
By the time Charlie grows up and leaves the nest, I want him so savvy on this speaking device that it's like watching a young Steve Jobs, maestro at the keys. I want the words to come so smoothly that you forget it's a voice on a screen. I want him to interrupt you. Yes, I do. I want his colleagues and supervisors to be unable to ignore his opinion when he offers it. Because this kid always has an opinion, and he deserves to be heard. The key is to find out how to best let it out.
And so, on this rainy, Fall afternoon, we sit together on the couch sharing a Costco package of Goldfish and talking about elephants in the sky. It turns out he had checked out a Disney Dumbo book from the library. Perhaps we are farther along than I thought.
OMG, These Baby Costumes From Pottery Barn Will Make This Halloween the Cutest Ever
I can hardly take how cute the Pottery Barn Kids costumes are. We're talking teeny-tiny puppies, unicorns, dragons, superheroes, mermaids, and more. Many of these costumes work for children from 0 to 24 months. Pottery Barn Kids is known for making high-quality costumes that will keep your little one cozy and comfortable. The retailer also designs them to be easy to get in and out of for diaper changes. But back to the cuteness: can you even handle it? Look through all of the options so you can see both the costumes and the lovable babies. If you're looking to buy one of these costumes, do it soon. These little gems are going to sell out fast . . . we know it.
Mini Bette Midler, Is That You? Check Out These Sisters’ Absolutely Incredible Hocus Pocus Costumes
I smell children, Winnie . . . like, really adorable children dressed up in absolutely spot-freakin'-on Sanderson sisters costumes. The Grabenstein sisters of Waco, TX, 6-year-old Landri and 8-year-old twins Alli and Maddi, just crushed the Halloween game weeks before Oct. 31 - and we're not even mad about it. The sisters asked their mom, Heather, if they could watch Hocus Pocus on Oct. 1, and the rest appears to be history.
The girls' costumes were done well ahead of Halloween, so Heather enlisted the help of Heather Rust, a Waco photographer, to snap photos of the girls, who get completely into character as Winnie, Mary, and Sarah.
Check out the photos ahead to see how seriously incredible the girls' transformation into the Sandersons was.
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.
It's THAT Time of Year: It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown Is on Tonight
There's absolutely nothing better than lighting a candle, curling up on the couch, and watching a classic movie with your family during the chillier months. And as any passionate Halloween-lover knows, It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is one of the world's greatest options when you have little ones in tow.
Although we kissed our DVD players goodbye a long time ago, there's still a way to watch Charlie, Snoopy, Sally, and the rest of the gang: by tuning into ABC tonight at 8 p.m ET. Already have plans? No worries! ABC is showing it again on Oct. 26 at the same time. Just make sure you don't forget the popcorn!
As Early Voting Begins, Let Michelle Obama Remind You Why Your Vote Matters
If you wouldn't want your grandma to pick out your outfit or your uncle to post to your Instagram, why would you let strangers make even more important decisions for you? Michelle Obama makes a strong case for voting in this election in her most recent video for When We All Vote.
Starting today, all eligible voters can create a game plan to vote by visiting the When We All Vote website. Its new tools are a one-stop shop for voters. Click over to find your polling locations, learn if you can vote early or by mail, see who will be on your ballot, and research those candidates before heading to the polls. Then, go vote!
These 20 Doughnut-Inspired Gifts Are Anything but Old-Fashioned
If you have a doughnut-obsessed friend or SO in your life (and who doesn't, right?!), shopping just got a whole lot easier. Ahead, you'll find 20 funny and adorable doughnut-related gifts they'll be sure to fawn over. From pretty ornaments to coffee mugs that will make them laugh, we found it all. Keep scrolling to shop our top picks.
I Tried The Pioneer Woman's Famous Turkey Tetrazzini, and It's Pretty Much Perfect
Despite its Italian sounding name, the pasta casserole Tetrazzini is all-American, named after a famous opera singer, and believed to have been invented in San Francisco. I tried out The Pioneer Woman's Turkey Tetrazzini, where she brilliantly suggests using leftover turkey meat in place of chicken, perfect for those Thanksgiving leftovers.
Admittedly, this was my first time ever making a Tetrazzini, and unless you're making it for eight to 10 people, I suggest cutting The Pioneer Woman's recipe in half. This dish comes together fast so be sure to prep all your ingredients before you start cooking, including making the spaghetti. I loved the big chunks of turkey combined with the smoky flavor from the bacon. The spaghetti, oozing melted cheese, and panko breadcrumb topping makes this a great meal to curl up with when you need a bit of homestyle cooking.
I found the recipe lacked some key ingredients like fresh herbs, so next time I would add fresh parsley and thyme to elevate the flavors in the pasta. I do, however, like how versatile this recipe is because you can replace the turkey with chicken or seafood or even make it vegetarian with broccoli florets or cauliflower. Overall, this baked pasta is easy to make and would be a comforting home-cooked meal during the holidays.
See step-by-step photos of this comforting casserole ahead, and then make it for yourself.
Get the recipe: The Pioneer Woman's Turkey Tetrazzini
An Avocado Toast Ornament Exists, and We're Buying One For Everyone We Know
Whatever your passions are, if you are a fitness fiend, have an Instagram devoted to your cat, or think that doughnuts are the greatest food of all time, there's an ornament for you. Seriously, if you can think of it, there's a chance you can find it on the internet in ornament form. These are our 20 favorite ornaments of the 2018 holiday season. Make sure nobody else's tree looks like yours.
Whole Foods Has All the Pumpkin Spice Things, and We're Losing Our Fall-Loving Minds
One of the most notable hallmarks of the Fall season is the arrival of all things pumpkin spice. All year long we wait for pumpkin spice lattes and other festive foods to hit the shelves and, finally, that time has come. Don't set your sights solely on the extremely popular coffee drink, though. While we won't shy away from our love of the PSL, there are tons of other seasonal treats that only become available this time of year. In fact, we've scoured Whole Foods's beloved selection to bring you all things pumpkin spice. From popcorn to whip to crisps, stock up on these autumnal goods before they're gone.
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.
The 15 Coolest Places to Celebrate Halloween Across the United States
Halloween is upon us, and many destinations throughout America thrive on bringing this fun holiday to life. Whether it's hosting paranormal activity tours, haunted houses, or spooky walking tours, there's never a shortage of Halloween activities worth traveling for in the United States. From murder mysteries in Finger Lakes, NY, to festivals in Honolulu, here are some of the most underrated and festive places to celebrate Halloween across America.
Maya Rudolph's Kids Want a Cat So Bad, They're Holding Out For Their Allergic Mom to, Well, Die
Maya Rudolph's kids really, really want a cat despite their mom being allergic, and well, they're being pretty savage about it. Sitting down with Ellen DeGeneres during "Cat Week," the hilarious The Good Place actress explained that her kids are mad at her because they were hoping to welcome an adorable feline into their home, which already houses more than one dog and four kids (sounds like a good idea, right?).
"I'm highly allergic to cats," Maya told Ellen. "My children are very mad at me about it because they really want a cat - we have dogs - but yeah, my kids want a cat. My 5-year-old recently begged me for a cat, and I said, 'I'm sorry, honey, we can't have a cat because Mommy's allergic,' and she said, 'Mommy, when you die, can we get a cat?' I thought that was really sweet of her."
Ellen asked the question we're all thinking following that hysterical story, which is if she said yes to her daughter. "I said, 'Absolutely!'"
Despite all this, and the fact that she thinks cats are just "fine," Maya still kind of wants - nay, needs - a kitty around, because of a, um, rodent issue (yikes).
"I have rats at my house, so I need a cat," she said. Ellen informed her that this makes sense, as there's a recent infestation in the Valley, where Maya and her family live. "Oh, they've been there for years," Maya said of her rats. When Ellen apprehensively asked how many rats she's had, Maya grimly responded: "I just smell them when they're dead. So, quite a few."
Hear the rest of what Maya had to say about her kids - namely, the "reason" she had four - in the video above, and prepare to belly laugh.
FYI, Urban Outfitters Has a Secret Section Filled With Cool Halloween Stuff!
We're so excited for Halloween, we're already planning our costumes and putting up decorations. If you're as obsessed as us, you're going to freak out over the Halloween section at Urban Outfitters. It's filled with an assortment of unique offering you'll want to snatch up fast. Shop through our favorites.
The Best Way to Roast Pumpkin Seeds
One of the highlights of Halloween is carving a pumpkin, both because it's a perfectly festive Fall activity, and because there's a delicious snack hidden inside these gourds. Instead of tossing out the seeds as you carve, reserve and then roast them; it's an incredibly easy process. All you need are the seeds, an oven, a half-sheet pan, some olive oil, and salt.
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.
Wake Up to These Delicious Slow-Cooker Meals This Fall
If you find your mornings to be hectic and you're struggling to put together a satisfying and healthy breakfast for you and the family, overnight slow-cooker recipes are just what you need! By putting everything together the night before and the temperature on low, you'll wake up to a completely cooked and satisfying breakfast. And it's not only good for breakfast foods, as you can use the overnight method to prepare lunch or dinner for the next day, too. Not sure where to get started? We have rounded up 20 of the best overnight slow-cooker meals ahead!
The Cannabis Beauty Products That Are High on Our Shopping Lists
Cannabis isn't just an ingredient for hippie brands anymore. The plant has become mainstream and many of your favorite brands are carrying cannabis-derived products, all available at huge retailers like Sephora.
The hydrating, soothing, and healing properties of the plant make it an excellent ingredient for skin care, and some brands like Milk Makeup are leaning in to the trend with cheeky names like Kush Mascara.
Ahead you'll see some of the best on-trend cannabis products available at Sephora.
Feel Like Khaleesi With These Game of Thrones Beauty Products
Fighting a drawn-out war over the Iron Throne probably doesn't leave much time to focus on fashion and beauty for the characters of Game of Thrones. Fortunately for us, we get to watch their adventures from the comfort of the real world, where the unique and creative aesthetics of the world of Westeros have inspired countless style and beauty products for several brands.
If you're looking to add a little bit of Highgarden or Winterfell to your style, then you've come to the right place! We've put together a list of all the most amazing products inspired by Game of Thrones. While you wait out the hiatus until season eight, pick up one for your binge-watching buddy . . . and maybe one for yourself as well.
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