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.
mardi 23 octobre 2018
Well, This Is a Bummer: Wonder Woman 2's Release Date Pushed Back to 2020
If you're one of the many superhero fans champing at the bit for the highly anticipated sequel to Warner Bros.'s Wonder Woman, then we have some good news and some bad news. The good news? The as-yet-untitled Wonder Woman 2 has an official release date! The bad news? It's extremely far away.
Back in July, the studio revealed that the sequel, which will take place during the Cold War in the '80s, wouldn't hit theaters until Dec. 13, 2019. Then Warner Bros. decided to move the date up by a month, opting for Nov. 1, 2019, instead. And then, in October 2018, ET reported that the DC Comics followup has been pushed way, way back to June 5, 2020. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster.
"We had tremendous success releasing the first Wonder Woman film during the Summer, so when we saw an opportunity to take advantage of the changing competitive landscape, we did," Jeff Goldstein, Warner Bros. President of Domestic Distribution, said in a statement. "This move lands the film exactly where it belongs."
Before Warner Bros. can begin working on the sequel for Diana, the studio has to release part two of Justice League (out on June 14, 2019), as well as finish The Flash and Aquaman (the latter due out on Dec. 21, 2018). At least we have the thought of Diana reuniting with Steve Trevor to keep us going!
17 Taylor Swift Stocking Stuffers For the Dedicated Swiftie in Your Life
Chances are there's someone in your squad who is obsessed with Taylor Swift. True Swifties can not only ace this quiz, but they also love to collect Taylor-inspired merch. With the holidays fast approaching, it's time to start shopping for the best Taylor-themed gifts in stores now. From vinyl records to kitschy t-shirts, we've rounded up some fun stocking stuffers for the biggest Taylor fans in your life. Keep reading to see and shop them all now.
You Might Lose Sleep Over the Insane Conspiracy Theory That Inspired Stranger Things
Image Source: Everett Collection
With two seasons under its belt, Stranger Things is bigger than ever. It's not just that the series delivers heavy doses of nostalgia and horror in one fell swoop. The real magic of Stranger Things is that it builds a conspiracy-filled universe that's so intricate, it almost feels real. Well, here's the thing: it's actually inspired by a real-life conspiracy theory that's so wild and detailed, you'll almost want to believe it. We're not talking about Project MK-Ultra, though the Duffer brothers (who created Stranger Things) have admitted that they incorporated aspects of that conspiracy theory into the show as well. But this story is much darker, deeper, and more sinister.
We're talking about The Montauk Project. One little-known secret about Stranger Things is that it was originally titled Montauk, and it was supposed to take place in New York. For the geographically uninformed, Montauk is at the very end of Long Island. And at the very tip of Montauk is Camp Hero State Park. This is where the unbelievable story of The Montauk Project takes place.
According to a mind-blowing conspiracy theory, Camp Hero allegedly housed an underground government facility that conducted a wide range of questionable scientific experiments. While the Duffer brothers didn't lift the entire story of The Montauk Experiment for their sci-fi series, there are a handful of aspects of the show that seem to draw direct inspiration. Let's uncover the mysteries.
Image Source: Everett Collection
Portals to Other Dimensions
In order to understand The Montauk Project, you need to hear about The Philadelphia Experiment. According to the stories, the Navy was conducting experiments in 1943. The goal was to render a military vessel invisible so that enemies could not detect it by radar or other means. These experiments yielded an unexpected result: not only did they purportedly figure out how to make the ships invisible, but they also accidentally sent one ship, The Eldridge, through a portal to another dimension and another time.
This government legend was so well-known that it was adapted into a 1984 film called The Philadelphia Experiment. The trailer for the film itself rehashes the story we've just gone over: the government experiences, the invisibility, even the time travel. Here's where things connect: a man named Alfred Bielek saw the film and experienced the strangest sense of déjà vu. In a 1997 interview with a reporter named Kenneth Burke, Bielek said the film "re-stimulated memories, which were close to the surface anyway."
In 1990, Bielek made the connection between The Philadelphia Experiment and The Montauk Project during a speech at a conference in Dallas. Bielek says he and his brother were both on the ship during this experiment. He says they were teleported from 1943 to 1983 . . . and they landed at Montauk. According to Bielek, they were intercepted by a man named Dr. von Neumann, whom they had also worked with in 1943. Dr. von Neumann told Bielek that they had inadvertently created a hole in hyperspace. Bielek recounted the doctor's explanation: "this hyperspace bubble is expanding, and is going to create some very serious problems; we don't know how far it will go if it's not shut down. It could engulf part of the planet." Basically, Bielek and his brother had to destroy all the equipment on the ship to "fix" this hole in hyperspace.
Stranger Things carries tons of echoes of this story. In fact, the experiments with Eleven are the initial cause for the gate that connects the Upside Down to our reality. Eleven has essentially torn the fabric of reality in the same way The Eldridge did. Season two further carries along a similar story: it becomes clear that the Upside Down has more or less "infected" Hawkins, and it's continuing to spread. The only way to stop the Upside Down from leaking further into reality is to close the gate.
Image Source: Everett Collection
The "Gifted One"
OK, bear with me. It gets weirder. After that whole crazy 1943/1983 accident, Bielek says his brother stayed in 1983. But because of the whole fiasco, his brother began to age rapidly. A year per hour, as he describes it. The scientists were desperate to somehow keep him alive, so here was their plan: back in the past, in the same timeline, Bielek convinced his parents to have another son:
"Whether you will accept the metaphysical point of view or not, it was arranged. I was allowed to help arrange it. Because I was back in '43 and there was some transit back and forth because of Montauk, which was still on line for a period of time. To go back to the father and say, 'Hey man, get busy; we need another son, something has happened to Duncan.' So a new son, the last of the line, was born in 1951, and he from '83 was a walk-in, as a soul into the body in 1963, August 12."
So, basically, the scientists somehow transferred his brother's soul from 1983 to the body of his new brother in 1963. (Don't ask me, I can't even begin to justify the science behind this.) Anyway, this new version of Duncan demonstrated incredible psychic abilities.
How did the scientists at Camp Hero exploit these powers? They built something called "the Montauk Chair." At this point, we meet Preston Nichols, who came into the picture after Bielek's stories began to circulate on a broader scale. Nichols would go on to write his own account of The Montauk Project. According to the text, the Montauk Chair was a chair that had been enhanced with unimaginable technology: it could manifest whatever its subject was imagining. Basically, the chair would purportedly read the seated person's mind and make their thoughts a reality.
In the chair, Duncan did an experiment called "The Seeing Eye." Nichols writes: "With a lock of person's hair or other appropriate object in his hand, Duncan could concentrate on the person and be able to see as if he was seeing through their eyes, hearing through their ears, and feeling through their body. He could actually see through other people anywhere on the planet." This sounds eerily like the experiments conducted with Eleven in Hawkins Lab. If you recall, season one shows Eleven attempting to hear words spoken in other rooms.
Duncan allegedly demonstrated other abilities that sound a lot like Eleven's. Some of Duncan's powers, though, were entirely different. For instance, and this is important, Duncan could imagine objects and they would materialize elsewhere on the base. Nichols also describes how Duncan went into an "altered form of consciousness" when doing these kinds of experiments, much like Eleven is more or less incapacitated once she descends into that dark water world of hers. Nichols also claims Duncan could manipulate time and space and open dimensional portals, much like Eleven.
Image Source: Netflix
The Kidnapped Children
As we know, Eleven is, well, likely the 11th child to be a test subject at Hawkins Lab. We can therefore deduce that there were at least 10 other children involved in these experiments, maybe more. The introduction of Kali in season two basically confirms this theory. And, I mean, it's possible Chief Hopper's daughter is in the mix, too. But that's another theory for another time.
In seasons one and two, we find out that Eleven was basically abducted by the scientists, stolen right from under her mother's nose. This exact thing happened in Montauk, according to Nichols:
"But there was one kid at Montauk who would go out and get other kids and bring them to the project. He was like a 'tractor beam.' He lived in Montauk and would circulate around very effectively . . . Some kids returned home, some didn't. The kids chosen were between 10 and 16. Or maybe 18 at the oldest and nine at the youngest. Most were just about to reach puberty or had just finished it . . . we know a lot of people were shoved somewhere into the Future - maybe 200 or 300 years ahead. Estimates range from 3,000 to 10,000 people that were eventually abandoned. We have no idea for what purpose."
So, yeah. If you think it's bad that the Hawkins Lab scientists may have taken a dozen or so kids, imagine a situation in which thousands and thousands of children vanish, and some never return home. Bleak. Obviously, the experiments in Stranger Things have less to do with time travel and more to do with developing supernatural abilities. At this point, that's all we've got. Maybe we'll find out more in season three?
Image Source: Netflix
An Interdimensional Monster
Perhaps the creepiest part of Nichols's account is that of the "Beast." Finally, in 1983 (when everything came full circle and The Eldridge arrived), the crew decided to pull the plug on everything. In that moment, Duncan conjured an otherworldly creature:
"The contingency program was activated by someone approaching Duncan while he was in the chair and simply whispering 'The time is now.' At this moment, he let loose a monster from his subconscious. And the transmitter actually portrayed a hairy monster. It was big, hairy, hungry and nasty. But it didn't appear underground in the null point. It showed up somewhere on the base. It would eat anything it could find. And it smashed everything in sight. Several different people saw it, but almost everyone described a different beast. It was either 9 feet tall or 30 feet tall depending on who saw it. I personally believe it was about nine or 10 feet in height. Fright does strange things to people, and no one was sure of what the exact physical constitution of this monster was. No one was in any frame of mind to calmly and collectively analyze its exact nature."
According to Nichols, there was really only one way to defeat the monster. They destroyed all of the Montauk Chair equipment, and once everything was shut down, it vanished into thin air. It's pretty wild to see the connections: Duncan basically created the monster in The Montauk Project, and Eleven is the one who unleashes the demogorgon unto our reality in the tiny town of Hawkins.
Of course, there isn't really any evidence to support anything pertaining to The Philadelphia Experiment or The Montauk Project. Then again, it's not really a matter of whether or not the accounts are true, anyway. The fact is, this entangled conspiracy mystery is a fascinating and riveting story. It's hard to ignore the parallels between that and the wonder of Stranger Things.
After 15 Seasons of Grey's Anatomy, Shonda Rhimes Only Regrets Killing 1 Character
Over the course of 15 traumatic seasons of Grey's Anatomy, creator Shonda Rhimes has killed off a ton of characters. Lexie Gray? Dead. Mark Sloan? Dead. Denny Duquette? Dead. Derek Sheperd? I still can't talk about it, you guys.
You'd think that after dramatically cutting short so many beloved, fictional lives, Rhimes might want to bring a few of them back from the dead. However, the showrunner has just one regret about killing off a character, and it's pretty surprising. Rather than reviving one of the major players, Rhimes told Entertainment Weekly in April that the person she really didn't want to see go was actually one of the many high-profile guest stars on the medical drama: Dylan Young.
The ill-fated bomb squad leader appears in season two episodes "It's the End of the World" and "As We Know It," and is played by the internet's fantasy husband, Kyle Chandler. Chandler had yet to steal hearts as Coach Taylor in Friday Night Lights when the episode aired in 2006, but even so, both Rhimes and the cast knew he had big things ahead of him. "I remember thinking Kyle Chandler was amazing," Ellen Pompeo, who plays Meredith, revealed. "I wasn't surprised his career really took off after that because he was so natural."
Rhimes further explained that although the character was always supposed to die, she wavered once she got to know Chandler. "He would pitch me ideas on how Dylan, his character, could maybe not explode, and I would show him the line in the script that said, 'Dylan explodes,'" she said. "That's literally all it said. He was written to explode. But I did not expect to have Kyle Chandler. I didn't want to explode him." The revelation echoes what she said back in 2013, when she told The Hollywood Reporter that Dylan is the one character she wouldn't have written out if she could go back in time.
As we're all heartbreakingly aware, Dylan does explode into pink mist after Meredith successfully hands over the bomb she removed from a patient's chest cavity. I'm tearing up just thinking about it.
Although his exit from Grey's is still one of the most upsetting, I guess now we know why he later reappears as one of Meredith's hallucinations. Rhimes just couldn't get enough of him (and she's definitely not alone).
18 Sexy, Spooky, and Silly Halloween Date Ideas
Ghouls, goblins, witches, and ghosts, get ready - Halloween is on the horizon. And while the frightful night is fun for families and friends, it can also make a hauntingly romantic holiday for couples. There are a number of ways to enjoy Oct. 31 with a significant other, whether you're looking for something a little bit goofy, something sexy, or something so scary it'll send you running into each other's arms. Check out these 18 Halloween date-night ideas now!
These Are the 30+ Hottest iPhone XS Cases You Need to Be Shopping
The newest additions to the Apple iPhone family are here, and the iPhone XS sure is pretty! If you've decided to go for the iPhone XS Max's little sister, keeping your new device protected from day-to-day wear and tear with a case is step number one. But the great news about styling your iPhone XS: iPhone X cases can also fit the new model. So, your phone case options are through the roof!
There are some incredibly cute, chic, and stylish cases out there, and there's guaranteed to be something for everyone. To make the search easier for you, we rounded up our favorite iPhone XS cases on the market right now. Shop them ahead!
4 Astonishingly Simple Secrets to a Happy Relationship
We can find happiness in all kinds of places, but there's perhaps nothing as special as being truly elated in the relationship with your significant other. Here we're breaking down the most important secrets to a happy partnership, according to studies that know what they're talking about. You might have heard some of these tips before, but it's time you get concrete examples of how to carry them out. Because no matter if you just got together or you've been married for five years, everyone could use a little guidance.
Take a Chill Pill - These 23 Gifts Are Perfect For People With Anxiety
When that feeling of anxiety starts to creep up, it can feel tempting to crawl into bed and stay there until it subsides. But, there are so many things you can do to stop anxiety in its tracks and make yourself breathe a little easier. If there's someone in your life who suffers from anxiety, or if that someone is you, we found 23 remedies that really work. Think hot water bottles, cute mugs, and awesome natural supplements. So take a deep breath and keep reading to shop our favorite products for beating anxiety.
23 Delicious Chocolate Gifts That Will Make This Holiday Sweeter Than Ever
If you have a friend who has a daily chocolate requirement, your holiday shopping just got a whole lot easier. Instead of stressing over what to get them, simply treat them to their favorite sweet. From gift sets to fun gag gifts, there are so many great options. We searched and found the best picks on the internet, so all you have to do is press "order" from the comfort of your own home. Take a look.
These Matching Incredibles PJs Will Turn the Whole Family Into Superheroes - Even the Dog!
There's arguably nothing cuter than a family in a set of matching pajamas, especially when the family dog can be included in the fun. In honor of the long-awaited sequel to The Incredibles, Hanna Andersson released a collection inspired by the Parr family's super suits in time for the film's release this past June.
The matching PJs for the whole family are available on the Hanna Andersson site, and they are CUTE. Check them out ahead, and get ready for your whole family to sleep like superheroes (Hopefully!).
40+ Recipes That Make Feeding a Crowd a Breeze
Cooking for a crowd, be it a large family gathering or a dinner party, can be a bit of a challenge. Most recipes are scaled to yield four to six servings, and while many can be doubled with some basic math, it's certainly nice to have a handful of options that can be made as is. Here, we've rounded up more than 40 recipes that serve at least eight, including a variety of casseroles, soups, and slow-cooker dishes.
Your Instagram-Loving BFF Will Want to Double Tap These 25 Fun Gifts
We all have that one friend who's addicted to Instagram. Whether they're documenting everything on Instagram Stories or constantly creating the perfectly curated snap, they'll love these gifts that celebrate their Insta-obsession. After looking at these fun graphic tees and documentable beauty products, we're already planning our perfect #shelfie. Don't be shy, and keep scrolling to shop our picks!
20-Somethings Secretly Want (and Need) These Housewarming Gifts From Target
Is there anyone out there who doesn't like Target? Anyone? Well, if there is, we have yet to meet them. Target is widely loved by people of all ages because it is effortlessly affordable and a one-stop shop for stylish home decor. It's also a great place to find that perfect housewarming gift for young adults who are finally moving into a more grownup home or apartment.
Many 20-somethings are in dire need of more elevated home goods. From chic decor they would never buy for themselves to basic living essentials, help them make their house feel less like a college dorm and more like a proper "adult" home with these Target treasures. Happy shopping, Target enthusiasts!
The Affordable, Personal Gift Guaranteed to Make Anyone Smile
Whether you've lived in the same state your whole live or are constantly moving from place to place, we all have a special connection to the area we call home. So when we saw these incredible Homesick Candles ($30), we knew we had found the perfect gifts for even the trickiest people on our lists. There are candles for all 50 states, plus divisions for northern and southern California. Additionally, they have scents for most major US cities, as well as big countries like Mexico and Australia. No matter who's on your list, they'll definitely appreciate this thoughtful, affordable gift.
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.
55 Home Decor Gifts That Will Make You Never Want to Leave the House
My mother always says decorating a house is never truly done . . . which is true, if you consider she's still working on my childhood home after 23 years. I only understood this concept once I moved out and began decorating my own apartment. Every time I would find a cute piece from Target or HomeGoods that I couldn't live without, I vowed to somehow work it into my home.
There's nothing quite like the joy of decorating your own place, so whether you just moved into a new apartment or you're planning on attending a friend's housewarming, here are 55 home decor items you need to buy. Trust us - you'll never want to leave the house.
Anthropologie's Holiday Decor Is Here, and We Want Every Cozy, Decadent Piece
Wave farewell to your savings, because Anthropologie has released holiday decor, and it's so damn whimsical and cozy we are losing our minds. From hand-blown embellished glass ornaments inspired by mermaids and cotton candy to luxurious faux fur stockings and tree skirts, Anthro is here to make your home a glistening Winter wonderland. It's a hygge holiday dream come true. See every single sequined, feathered, tasseled, and felted item ahead, and don't be surprised if you start humming Christmas carols under your breath.
5 Little Changes That Made a Big Difference For My Sanity
Every week presents its challenges to my sanity. The crazy combination of work, relationships, social life, and the impending future leave hardly any time for me, myself, and I. I am so over it. I lost touch with my surroundings, and, in turn, lost touch with my own sense of who I am. In the course of the past year, I realized I needed change, stat. So I started doing more of what made me happy, more of what made me mindful, and more of what made me smile.
Here are a five little things that I do to make every day a little better and a little brighter.
Stop Searching -These Are the 44 Best Tween Gifts of 2018
Not little kids, but not quite teens, tweens can be a difficult group to please when it comes to shopping. But with our list of gifts, you're sure to get a smile from the biggest kids (but don't call them that!) in your life. From gifts for sports fanatics to mini fashionistas, these presents are perfect for your middle schooler who can't wait to grow up but still can't resist a cool toy or two.
- Additional reporting by Eleanor Sheehan
For even easier shopping, click below for your needs.
This Mom Crocheted an ET Costume For Her Son, and the Details Are Out of This World
Stephanie Pokorny, a mom of four boys and a seriously talented crocheter, has always loved making things with her hands. Over the past few years, Stephanie decided to blend her passion for crocheting with her Halloween obsession, and the results are these jaw-dropping costumes she made by hand.
"I have always been someone who liked to make things, so instead of the toy store, my grandma and grandpa would take me to the craft store instead," Stephanie told POPSUGAR. "My grandma taught me at 16, and I became obsessed. The rest is history! I have always been a real Halloween-lover, so it was natural to combine the two loves."
As for how she selects which costumes to create? She lets her boys decide, of course. "Each year, my children choose what they want to be, and I do my best to make it come to life for them," explained Stephanie.
And yes, as expected, each creation takes a heck of a long time to bring to life. "The costumes are freehanded with no pattern, and that's actually my favorite way to work," said the mom. "I'm guessing the Predator costume I did most recently took about 40 hours over a period of three weeks."
Read through to get a look at Stephanie's incredible handiwork.
Parents, You Should NOT Take Your Kids to See A Star Is Born, No Matter How Good It Is
A Star Is Born is 100 percent the best new movie I've seen in quite some time, and I'm calling it now, it's going to win all of the Oscars this coming award season. But despite the beautiful, heartbreaking, emotional film being one of the most amazing - in a bittersweet way - that I've seen, it is definitely not one to take the kids to.
The tragic love story features Bradley Cooper as Jackson, a famous musician and addict who discovers Ally (Lady Gaga) in a drag bar he stumbles into looking for an alcohol fix after a gig. After hearing Ally sing, it's clear Jack's completely and utterly smitten with her, and he decides to help advance her music career by convincing her to sing on stage with him and taking her out on the rest of his tour. Although the general premise seems innocent enough, Jack's addictions and struggles with his family life are at the forefront of this film, and the back half of the over two-hour running time has some seriously dark moments.
If you're thinking of taking your kid to see this film with you, I wouldn't recommend bringing any teen under the age of 17 or 18, but you know your child and what they can handle best, so read ahead if you're considering a family movie date.
Warning: MAJOR spoilers for A Star Is Born lie ahead.
Life Hack: You Can Cook Frozen Chicken in Your Instant Pot - and It Only Takes 12 Minutes!
Proud owner of an Instant Pot? Then you're probably aware of the fact that this handy-dandy contraption can make just about anything - including yogurt and wine - if you're game. But for busy parents everywhere, the Instant Pot can be a big lifesaver as far as dinner is concerned. Why? Because you can actually cook frozen chicken in it on the days you forgot to take it out of the freezer before leaving the house.
Luckily, taking your chicken from its frozen state to something you can actually work with takes much less time than we originally thought. Although your exact cook time will depend on the amount of meat you're trying to defrost, it usually takes anywhere between 10 and 12 minutes to completely defrost a couple of average-sized chicken breasts. If you prefer your chicken more firm or have plans to shred it, simply program your Instant Pot to 12 minutes on the manual setting and get started on the rest of your meal.
And if you're really in a rush, try adding a 1/2 a cup of water or broth per two pounds of frozen chicken to speed the process up. It's also possible to kill two birds with one stone (pun intended!) by adding salt and pepper - or any seasoning of your choice - into the pot along with your favorite marinade. Just be sure the chicken's temperature is above 165 degrees Fahrenheit or that it's not pink in the middle once you release the pressure and pull it out of the pot.
Could it get any easier than that? We think not!
These Matching Incredibles PJs Will Turn the Whole Family Into Superheroes - Even the Dog!
There's arguably nothing cuter than a family in a set of matching pajamas, especially when the family dog can be included in the fun. In honor of the long-awaited sequel to The Incredibles, Hanna Andersson released a collection inspired by the Parr family's super suits in time for the film's release this past June.
The matching PJs for the whole family are available on the Hanna Andersson site, and they are CUTE. Check them out ahead, and get ready for your whole family to sleep like superheroes (Hopefully!).
Young Dancers Create Music Video About Gun Violence, and It’ll Leave You Empowered
If someone were to share a video with you and tell you that it was inspired by a school shooting and was about ending gun violence, let's be honest: there's a good chance you wouldn't watch it. With so much sadness and tragedy in our lives, it's understandable why you wouldn't want to spend a few minutes viewing anything that would just make you feel sadder.
But, please, trust us when we say this video is different. This video is inspiring and joyful, and those watching it are sure to feel empowered and uplifted.
Featuring more than 130 dancers between the ages of 7 and 17, it's an emotional yet elevating music video for Sia's "Enough!" - which was written after students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School attended a ballet performance to honor a fallen peer who had been a dancer.
"In a world too often divided by words, the goal of this piece is to offer an inspiring bi-partisan message through dance that could motivate more effectively than any rhetoric," said ballet dancers Robbie Fairchild and Exra Hurwitz, who produced the video.
The video ends with the deeply unsettling statistics surrounding the three million American children who experience gun violence each year, but the overall message is one of hope that we can all stand proudly behind.
Disneyland's Christmas Spirit Jerseys Are Here, and Oh Mickey, They're So Fine!
If you're starting to feel the festive twinge of the holiday spirit, then you're not alone; everyone at Disneyland is on board, too. The gorgeous new holiday gear was on display at the grand reopening of Disneyland's World of Disney, and friends, there's so much good stuff this year! We're particularly excited about - you guessed it - spirit jerseys.
This oversize tee has become a viral craze from coast to coast; park-goers in Anaheim and Orlando have been obsessed with rocking creative iterations of the classic, subtly sporty style. The latest? HOLIDAY.
Two new Christmas-y versions of the Disneyland spirit jersey give you two ways to show off your love of the season: the "ugly sweater" and the holiday tartan. They're equally covetable and equally bound to soar off the shelves quicker than you can say "ho ho ho." Keep reading for more photos of the jerseys (and matching ears you'll want to grab, too!). These bad boys are $65 a pop (same as all the other Disneyland spirit jerseys), and you can find them in the World of Disney's holiday section in Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort.
My Husband and I Always Get Caught Having Sex in Public Places, and We Love It
It's totally normal to find your sex life in a rut. It's especially common after having kids, although that's not a requirement. For me and my husband, we found our sex life lagging after years of unsuccessfully trying to get pregnant. Sex had become a chore, and battling infertility had taken its toll. Some couples try everything from alcohol to a little dirty talk to try to find their groove again, but luckily for us, having children did the trick. With the stress of trying to get pregnant finally behind us, we have a hard time keeping our hands off of each other now.
I've lost count of all the times and places we've been caught. Restaurant bathroom? Been there. Department store fitting room? Done that.
With a whole gaggle of kids at home, finding the time and energy for sex can be challenging. That's why we take advantage of every opportunity when it's just the two of us. Sometimes, those opportunities happen to be when we're out in public places. And sometimes, we get caught. We've never tried to get caught. We do our best to be quiet and discreet, but police officers have jobs to do, people get lost, and some employees are a little overzealous.
The first time we got caught was in a dark corner of a beach parking lot. We weren't the only parked car in the lot, so the idea that someone would come up to our car never even crossed our minds. I'm not sure what prompted the intrusion - Was the car moving? Were the fogged-up windows that noticeable? - but all of a sudden, we found ourselves scrambling to cover up in the backseat after a cop knocked on the window with his flashlight.
Have you ever heard someone talk about their life flashing before their eyes? Well, mine did in that moment. Or rather, my future did. Was he going to make us get out of the car with our pants down? Because whoever else was sitting in their cars was now watching whatever police activity was about to go down, undoubtedly with cameras ready. Would we be arrested? My mugshot plastered in all the local papers for my boss and coworkers to see? I would surely be losing my job. And just as I thought, "Oh my God, this cannot be happening to me of all people. I am such a prude," he asked us if we'd been drinking (we had not) and for identification. With our licenses in hand, he went back to the squad car, which had seemingly appeared out of nowhere. And after what seemed like an eternity, he came back, returned our licenses, and told us to go home. My heart continued racing until we pulled into our driveway 15 minutes later. Then, we just broke out into uncontrollable laughter, because really, what else could we do?
Since that humiliating first time, I've lost count of all the times and places we've been caught. Restaurant bathroom? Been there. Department store fitting room? Done that. The most recent was at a wedding. We ate quickly, snuck out, and moved the car closer down toward the entrance to the vineyard. Someone must have seen us leaving and followed us, because within minutes, the car was surrounded by half a dozen employees, each armed with a serious face and overly bright flashlight. But since we're now seasoned pros, we were able to (much to their dismay, I'm sure) laugh, shrug, and tell them that we have too many kids at home. What we didn't tell them is that having sex in public places, where we always run the risk of getting caught, has become a favorite pastime of ours. What started out as something we kind of did out of necessity has become one of our biggest and hottest turn-ons. So frankly, we won't be stopping anytime soon.
When it comes to my kids, I'm more afraid of getting caught by them and having to explain ourselves, because they're still at an age where they either reenact or repeat everything. And the last thing I need is for their entire class to hear about Mommy and Daddy doing whatever we'll tell them we're doing at home. So for now, if you happen to catch us, just go easy on us.
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.
We're Not Sure What It Is About These Dads With Kids on Their Shoulders, but We're in Love
Is there anything more precious than a kid on their dad's shoulders, hanging onto his head or ears, living their best life? We think not. And not to mention, the dads are pretty cute themselves! Because we love little more than adorable pictures of dads and their kids, we found some of the best photos out there of kids on their dads' shoulders in various settings - on the beach, in cities, and on vacation - just for all of our viewing pleasure.
SO. MUCH. CUTE.
Don’t Just Dress Up the Kids! These 32 Family-of-4 Costume Ideas Are Begging to Be Stolen
Dressing up in a group costume as a family is one of the most fun parts of Halloween after having kids. Rather than popping your kids into costumes and calling it a day as they trick-or-treat with you by their sides in plain clothes, get in on the fun with some costume ideas that are too good not to replicate.
Check out some of our favorite costume ideas for families of four in particular below. (Family of three? Check these costumes out!)
17 Genius Gadgets That Will Be Great Stocking Stuffers - All Under $50
This year, we're seeing a big tech trend in products that are intended to make your life easier. From phone-charging keychains to robotic cleaning balls, there's something that will improve all aspects of your life. Instead of trying to keep up with the constant stream of new stuff coming to market, let us do the hard work for you. Whether you're a couch potato or always out and about, there's something that will pique your interest. Take a look at our top picks and consider investing in them for yourself. They make great gifts as well - see for yourself!
20 Cute Pajamas That Will Convince You to Cancel Plans and Stay In
Stumped on what to get the stylish woman in your life? If she also loves lounging, treat her to a cute and comfy pajama set this holiday. Ahead, you'll find 20 cozy picks she'll be guaranteed to love. From warm flannels to sleek silks, beware you might end up wanting a few for yourself. Take a look.
I Believed in Santa Until 5th Grade and I’m Not the Least Bit Embarrassed
The first time my lanky Jewish father put on a red Santa suit and knocked his slender frame throughout the house, I must have been a toddler. He wore all of the key accessories one would come to expect of Santa - the hat, the red suit, and the long, unmistakable beard. I couldn't get over his eyes, though. "Santa's eyes look just like daddy's," I'd told my mom the first time I met Mr. Clause.
There's something to be said about good performance art.
While Dad's showmanship eventually petered out and he became the Skipping Christmas-reading man I'd later come to know, I was impressionable and believed that I'd met the real Clause once. I needed to nurture our relationship somehow.
I decided to write him letters. Second grade. Third grade. Each December I penned notes to the legend, asking him for Christmas presents, and then, in fourth grade, buried at the bottom of a note - I smile remembering this - I asked him to "Please make Michael Anderson like me." Capital P. Yes, as adolescent hormones were getting the best of me, Santa was the only person well suited to deal with my pre-teen heartache. Evidently I mistook Santa for Dear Abby.
As adolescent hormones were getting the best of me, Santa was the only person well suited to deal with my pre-teen heartache.
Fifth grade was the tipping point. After seeing the leggy Suzanne Somers shill her miracle-working Thighmaster on TV, and convincing myself that if I had one, Michael Anderson would most certainly requite my love, I wrote to Santa my mom and asked for one. They could only be purchased over the TV, I explained, so he'd need to put the order in quickly. Along with my purchase order came another note. I plead with him to make this the year that Michael liked me back. And, if he could, "please also get my mom this pretty jewelry box she saw on QVC because she really deserves it."
Boom. That's how you unknowingly lay in the guilt. Up until that point in my career as a devout Santa-believer, my mom ate these letters up, getting a pure kick out of how much weight I'd given to Dad's Santa shtick. When that Christmas came and went, and a classmate made a flip comment about how no one believed in Santa anymore, I finally went to my mom for the truth.
She couldn't bare to lie to me any longer. Having become so mature and self-aware that I was using Santa's ear to ask him to buy presents for my mom made her feel immense guilt. Plus, I was now starting to ask for things that couldn't be purchased easily (how the heck was she going to get a Thighmaster?). This all told her that the right thing to do was to sit me down for a talk.
She sat me down on the couch, took a deep breath, and softy placed her hands on my knees. "I already have a jewelry box, honey."
10 Things Teachers Want You to Know About Flu Prevention in Schools
If there's anyone you should take tips from to avoid getting the flu, it's teachers. Surrounded by children all day, it's a wonder that teachers' benefits packages don't come with 50+ sick days. Kids are notorious for spreading germs thanks to their grubby nature, playful spirits, and that they're still learning how to keep their bodies to themselves. And in my seven years as a teacher, not once did I catch the flu. While I would like to congratulate myself on having superb genetics, chances are it has far more to do with the fact that I followed these steps to keep myself healthy. While every classroom is different, these 10 rules will help prevent your child from getting the flu this school year.
Can We All Please Stop Sending Our Sick Kids to School?
Dear Parents Who Send Their Sick Kids to School,
I'm going to get right to it - please, please stop.
And before you say that I don't understand what it's like, know that I absolutely do. I have two young kids who constantly bring germs home with them from school, the park, and wherever else they can touch their little hands. I know that having a sick child sucks. You have to take time off work or find a willing babysitter (both of which can be incredibly difficult and sometimes impossible), risk getting sick yourself by tending to your child's cough and runny nose, and constantly clean the house and wipe down surfaces to try to prevent the rest of the family from getting infected. And a lot of the time this lasts for days. It's not fun, it's not easy, and it can seriously disrupt your family's life. I get it.
But just because your child isn't vomiting doesn't mean they aren't very sick, and sending them to school with a cold, fever, or upset stomach isn't fair to their teacher, the rest of their class, and all of us fellow parents. Sure, kids fib about feeling sick sometimes to get out of going to school, but chances are you can spot such a lie immediately and get on with your day. But even if they're just coughing and sneezing and not giving you visible evidence of the flu in the form of projectile vomit that only kids can create, it doesn't mean you should write their symptoms off as no big deal and send them on their way. Please, keep them home. If you make them go to school anyway, they'll only infect everyone else.
Think of the other children in your child's class. There is likely a kid with a more sensitive immune system or condition that could be devastating for that child if they catch what your child has. How do I know? Because that used to be my kid. When another parent made their child go to school with a cold, my son caught it, it settled into his lungs, and it turned into pneumonia. Simple cold and flu symptoms don't mean the same for every child, and it's vital that all of us parents remember this.
Am I saying you should keep your child home if you hear them sneeze a few times? Of course not. You know your child best and you know when they're sick. Keeping them home for every cough you hear isn't realistic, and no parent wants their child to miss a lot of school. All I'm asking is to err on the side of caution, especially during the cold and flu season.
We all know how much even small colds can wipe our children out and drain all their energy, so if they go to school and push themselves, it could only make things worse. It could also make their illness last longer, which nobody ever wants. So, the next time your child is feeling under the weather, please keep them home and let them rest and recuperate. Their entire class, and all of those kids' parents, would desperately appreciate it.
Sincerely,
A Fellow Parent
Why I Never Give My Kids Medicine, Only Natural Remedies
As the mom of two boys with asthma who have had to endure their fair share of steroid cycles, antibiotic courses, and late-night urgent care visits, I know firsthand how painful it is to watch your child suffer. While their doctors have become more inclined to prescribe medications at the drop of a hat to fix even the smallest of ailments, I've become certain that we need to avoid them at all costs.
Bacterial resistance can happen when antibiotics are overused, steroids can cause an increase in aggressive behavior, and even over-the-counter cough syrups can result in severe breathing problems. Instead of constantly feeding my kids drugs that really only mask the problems, I try to find a way to heal from within by using holistic treatments and natural remedies.
While I'm not saying you should avoid medication at all costs - I'm not a doctor and you should always use common sense when dealing with sick children - I work hard to avoid getting to that critical point where there is no choice left but to start pharmaceutical drugs. Since my children's asthma seems triggered mostly after the start of a minor cold, I now try to stop a cold from ever starting - the same philosophy I use for all sicknesses. These are the tried-and-true measures I take to boost my children's immune systems:
- CLEARinse Nasal Cleaning: I make my boys do nasal rinses every night, especially during high flu or allergy season. Not only does nasal cleaning flush out germs and debris, but it's also a drug-free solution to keep colds at bay.
- Zoganic Supplements: These give my kids an immunity boost, especially since vitamin C is known to be such a stellar antioxidant.
- Manuka Doctor Manuka Honey: Known for its medical properties, Manuka honey comes from New Zealand bees that pollinate the Manuka bush. It contains a higher concentration of methylgloxal, a compound that handles a body's antibacterial responses. I give my children a teaspoon each every day.
- Healthworks Turmeric Root Powder: Turmeric is a very popular south Asian spice that has anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains a good dose of vitamin B6, which helps strengthen the body's immune responses. I usually sneak a pinch of this into my kids' oatmeal bowls.
As is bound to happen, my kids do occasionally get sick, though the frequency and intensity of the illnesses are much more manageable. Once my kids have gotten sick, I double-down and use the following things to get rid of the germs ASAP:
- Nature's Way Elderberry Syrup: This herb is known for it's antioxidant-laden and immune-strengthening properties that also reduce inflammation. It's a great alternative to over-the-counter cough syrups or allergy medicine, and I'll typically give my kids a teaspoon at bedtime during peak flu season.
- Nature's Baby Ah-Choo Chest Rub: I use this eucalyptus rub on my kiddos when they're suffering from chest or nasal congestion.
- Oilogic Slumber and Sleep Essential Oils: These are great to use for any minor ailments because the essential oils soothe and help your child drift off to sleep. I recently used this on my toddler who was having shin pains from a growth spurt, and a friend uses it to help her teething daughter.
- Lolleez Throat-Soothing Lollipops: These are a fun alternative that even kids will enjoy! I love that these are organic and contain honey to help soothe the kiddos when they're up coughing all night.
- Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar: This is a great remedy to help bring down mild fevers. Simply soak a little bit on a washcloth and place it on your child's forehead. They won't be crazy about the smell, but it's a great alternative to ibuprofen.
Editor's Note: This piece was written by a POPSUGAR contributor and does not necessarily reflect the views of POPSUGAR Inc. Interested in joining our POPSUGAR Voices network of contributors from around the globe? Click here.
The 55 Best Gifts For 2-Year-Olds in 2018
Who says the terrible twos are really that bad? Certainly not your little angel! Two-year-olds are on the move and getting into everything, but with toys like a play table that sings about the food it's cooking and wooden puzzles that require a magnetic fishing pole, your tot will be so busy, he won't have time to get into trouble.
For even easier shopping, click below for gift ideas by category.
- Educational and Stem Toys
- Walking and Riding Toys
- Outdoor Toys
- Dolls and Plush Toys
- Just For Fun
- Pretend Play and Dress-Up
- Bath Toys
- Books
Twice in 1 Season? Why the Flu Might Strike Again, Even If Your Kid Already Had It
It's no secret that the flu has been particularly awful recently. Children are especially vulnerable to getting sick (last year, schools actually shut down to try to combat the outbreak), and when they do come down with something awful, it's heartbreaking as a parent to watch them suffer. If your child does get sick, you might feel relieved to think they could soon be out of the woods, but unfortunately, the flu can strike more than once in the same season, warned Dr. Ian Tong, chief medical officer at Doctor on Demand. "A child could be infected by both influenza A and influenza B in the same year."
So what can you do to try to navigate around this? Once your child's doctor confirms the flu, take note of which type they have. "Influenza A subtype, or influenza A, is the more dangerous subtype of the flu," Dr. Tong said. Last year, it was the severity of the H3N2 strain of the influenza A subtype that required so many people to be hospitalized. "Ironically, patients infected with influenza B may experience a longer duration of symptoms than those infected with influenza A, but those with influenza A are likely to see more severe symptoms, but of shorter duration," Dr. Tong explained.
Dealing with the flu for a second time is no different, or more dangerous, than the first. Washing your hands frequently, getting plenty of rest, and drinking liquids are all ways to combat the flu. Dr. Tong urges patients to also take preventative measures to ensure that others don't get sick. "Wash your hands, cover your mouth or your child's mouth when he or she coughs, and isolate that person from other family members if possible, especially those who have weaker immune systems," he advised.
Additionally, Dr. Tong urged people to speak to a doctor as soon as symptoms arise, saying, "The treatment window for the flu is usually within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, and the only proven treatment that helps requires a doctor's prescription - so it's important to act fast."
What Parents Need to Know to Spot the Difference Between a Cold and a Flu
Taking care of a sick kiddo is one of the hardest things to deal with as a parent. Considering how widespread and dangerous flu seasons have become, it makes it all the more challenging. Knowing how to help and how to react properly is a huge point of concern when combating childhood sickness.
The flu is not the only possible illness your kid could catch this Fall and Winter, as the cold is also going around. While the two sicknesses might appear to be similar, they couldn't be more different in their severity or their treatments. Knowing what to look for is important in getting the help your little ones need so they can recover and get back to playing. POPSUGAR spoke with Dr. Ian Tong, chief medical officer at Doctor on Demand, to help parents determine what symptoms are present with the cold and flu and what you should do about it.
The Symptoms
It's no wonder that people have a hard time distinguishing between the cold and the flu since they have so many overlapping traits. "Cold and flu symptoms can seem similar, and do overlap. A cold can often be confused with allergies because you may not experience a fever (or have a low grade fever)," warns Dr. Tong. A sore throat, coughing, and sneezing can be present in both, but Dr. Tong confirms there are some differences to look out for.
The Main Difference
Dr. Tong confirms that one of the easiest ways to differentiate between the cold and the flu is the speed in which symptoms worsen. "You may start with a dry cough and then your symptoms may become progressively severe," begins Dr. Tong. A flu might show as a high fever of up to 103 or 104 degrees, body aches and pains, as well as a headache, congestion, and fatigue.
How to Treat Them
"The treatment window for the flu is usually within the first 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, and the only proven treatment requires the help of a doctor's prescription - so it's important to act fast," Dr. Tong advises. "Parents should contact a physician to help them determine if their child has the flu. They can address both flu and colds with symptomatic relief including nasal steroid inhalers for congestion, acetaminophen for head or body aches, and plenty of TLC. However, the most effective weapon doctors have against the flu is oseltamivir (or Tamiflu), which requires a prescription."
A cold, however, does not require the assistance of a doctor and most symptoms can be managed at home. This is how Dr. Tong suggests parents combat a cold:
- Get over-the-counter medicine: Early symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and sinus pain can be treated with pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Read the label carefully and follow dosage exactly.
- Avoid cold and damp environments: Bacteria and viruses thrive at cooler temperatures, so if your kid is fighting a bug, it's best to stay warm and dry.
- Get enough sleep: Try to get your kiddos to sleep as much as possible to give their bodies a chance to recover.
- Deliver plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated with water, decaffeinated tea, sport drinks, and sugar-free drinks are best to help fight dehydration associated with fever.
- Choose a warm bath or cool shower: If your children are experiencing a chill or a fever, giving them a warm bath or cool shower could offer some comfort. Adding shower or bath bombs containing eucalyptus, menthol, or other essential oils could make the experience more pleasant.
All the Fitness Gear Keeping Us Motivated and Moving This October
October is time for chilly morning runs through the changing foliage, cozying up with a warm mug of coffee or tea, and bundling up in layers. As we embrace the Fall season, take a look at what our Fitness editors are loving this month.
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