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 9 novembre 2018
In Pop Culture, Lolita's Lollipop Has Transformed From Sexist Symbol to Weapon of Choice
In one of the most widely recognized images of Vladimir Nabokov's titular Lolita, a car's rearview mirror tightly frames the face of a fair-haired, fair-skinned girl. Her precocious gaze holds our attention from just behind the heart-shaped sunglasses perched atop her nose. The sunglasses are bright red, a perfect match for the girl's cherry-stained mouth and the lollipop that rests between her lips.
But suckers and sunglasses never appeared in Nabokov's 1955 novel. They didn't turn up in Stanley Kubrick's 1962 film, either. Rather, these props were selected by fashion photographer Bert Stern, who shot the promotional stills for Kubrick's Lolita in 1961. Stern purchased them at a five-and-dime to adorn Sue Lyon, the 14-year-old actress cast in the role of Dolores "Lolita" Haze.
The lollipop has come to signify a coquettish temptress: young, sweet, sexy.
Since then, the lollipop has come to signify a coquettish temptress: young, sweet, sexy. A controversial ad campaign for Love's Baby Soft perfume in the 1970s featured a woman holding a lollipop to her cheek with the tagline, "Because innocence is sexier than you think." Children of the '90s may remember the lollipop as a natural if not all-too-obvious prop for Baby Spice of the Spice Girls. And it would not be a stretch to suggest that Lil Wayne's 2008 song "Lollipop" does not simply imply its objectifying motif but pushes the metaphor to its explicit end. Despite how sharply this seductive, hypersexual distillation contrasts with Nabokov's Lolita, a 12-year-old girl violated at the hands of an adult abuser, the trope has persisted for decades.
Shirley Temple in Bright Eyes. Image Source: Everett Collection
In her article "Rewriting Lolita in Fashion Photography: Candy, Consumption, and Dying Flowers," Dr. Morna Laing details how such media references point to a culture historically fixated on a fetishized tension between girlhood and womanhood, in which young girls are oversexualized and adult women are infantilized. There's a term for it, "nymphetmania," and it has a cinematic history that long predates Lolita. Lollipops can be found at the origins of this pedigree, linked especially to Shirley Temple. In the early 1930s, Temple sang "The Good Ship Lollipop" to an audience of fondling men in the film Bright Eyes and performed with the candy in hand in a series of films called Baby Burlesks, which - you guessed it - are about toddlers playacting adult burlesque shows.
Beware the Girl With the Sweet Tooth
But today's popular culture has seen a notable shift in the way this stylistic device is brandished. Instead of alluding to an illicit fascination with girlish naiveté, the lollipop has increasingly been wielded as a double-edged sword. On USA's Mr. Robot, FBI agent Dominique DiPierro (Grace Gummer) has a habit of consuming lollipops while pursuing the bad guys. Suckers are a signature of DC Comics' good-doctor-gone-evil, Harley Quinn. In the 2007 remake of Hairspray, Amanda Bynes's Penny Pingleton devours the candy as her character dives into 1960s counterculture. And most recently, a lollipop popped up in a pivotal exchange between Amy Adams's tortured Camille and Eliza Scanlen's devilish Amma on HBO's Sharp Objects, a series entirely coated in layers of sugar, spice, and everything malevolent.
Every rose has its thorn, every piece of hard candy has its jagged edge, and every jawbreaker can, well, break your jaw.
The subversion of candy as an emblem of feminine sweetness is also rooted in the premise of several films, including 1999's Jawbreaker, 2001's Sugar and Spice, and 2005's Hard Candy - which, coincidentally, was titled Lollipop in some foreign markets. Each employs the saccharine symbol to connote the merging of two seemingly disparate personas: the damsel in distress and the femme fatale. Every rose has its thorn, every piece of hard candy has its jagged edge, and every jawbreaker can, well, break your jaw.
Without giving too much away, broken jaws and thorny roses are precisely what Sharp Objects delivers. The miniseries, based on Gillian Flynn's 2006 novel of the same name, follows Camille Preaker (Amy Adams), a journalist dispatched to her hometown of Wind Gap, MO, to cover the grisly murders of two 13-year-old girls. While there, Camille is haunted by her past and confronted with the fraught relationships she has with her mother, Adora (Patricia Clarkson), and half-sister, Amma. Wind Gap itself is portrayed as a dreamscape filled with lurid secrets, a town oozing equal parts treacle and horror. Episode titles like "Milk" and "Ripe" likewise invoke things that are wholesome only until they spoil.
Which brings us to the duplicitous Amma (Scanlen), a baby-faced sociopath on roller skates. Amma wears ribbons in her hair. She obsesses over her meticulously decorated dollhouse. She's a daddy's girl and mama's princess. At least by day, anyway. By night, she is cruel and cunning. In her dealings with Camille, Amma swings from sickly sweet to savage. In the episode "Fix," we see Amma melt into her sister, cradling Camille and begging for her affections. By the end of the hour, Amma's physical attention has turned menacing. Finding Camille in a parking lot with Richard Willis (Chris Messina), the detective investigating the Wind Gap murders, Amma - her friends circling like a pack of wolves - unleashes. "I heard Camille is a real hot ticket. Or she was," Amma taunts with satisfaction. "You should hear the stories, Dick." When Camille turns to retreat, Amma takes the red lollipop she's been sucking and sticks it in her sister's hair, twisting it like a knife in the back.
Amma (Eliza Scanlen) on Sharp Objects. Image Source: HBO
The scene highlights the series's underlying tension, one articulated by Chief Bill Vickery (Matt Craven), who describes Adora's daughters this way: "One is dangerous and one is in danger." But who is who? Made in the binary image of their mother - the malicious martyr - Camille and Amma have been manipulated like paper dolls, forced to wear the costumes of princess and rebel, unfolding to reveal the show's central paradox: that the "bad" girl is actually "good" and the "good" girl is terrifyingly "bad."
From Siren Song to Sucker Punch
Elliot (Rami Malek) and Darlene (Carly Chaikin) on Mr. Robot. Image Source: Getty
Like Sharp Objects, several characters act as warped mirrors of each other on Mr. Robot, and two of them happen to share a penchant for Lolita's iconic style: Dominique "Dom" DiPierro (Gummer), an FBI agent investigating the hacktivist group "fsociety," and Darlene Alderson (Carly Chaikin), an fsociety member. While Dom is rarely caught in deep thought without a lollipop in her mouth, Darlene is often sporting a pair of heart-shaped sunglasses. Sealing the allusion is Darlene's screen name: "Dolores Haze." Dom and Darlene have much in common. They both left boyfriends after they had proposed. They bond over being "Jersey girls." And when the FBI brings in Darlene, Dom pushes to question her, stating, "I am her." Fan theories abound as to how these characters are connected (and if you would like to go down a Reddit rabbit hole, I can send along some links).
But where the lollipop scene in Sharp Objects signifies a "female sort of rage," as Camille describes it, in Mr. Robot, we find not so much vengeance as vulnerability. Dom and Darlene are both self-possessed forces to be reckoned with, and yet - at least by the end of the third season - they have been undone. Between their professional objectives and personal lives, both characters appear to oscillate between invincibility and fragility. This ceaseless tension may ultimately underscore how the very determination that puts them at risk might translate into the instincts necessary to survive.
Though this symbolism is differently deployed in Sharp Objects, Jen Chaney, pop culture critic at New York Magazine, notices that both shows may draw upon Lolita imagery for a shared purpose: "to misdirect us as viewers." In the case of Amma, "her dresses and dollhouses can be viewed as clever armor that distracts from seeing her for who she is." In Mr. Robot, the Lolita connection may have initially been used to obscure Darlene's relationship to Elliot. Chaney observes that the heart-shaped sunglasses "helped visually to bolster the case that they might be lovers or former lovers, but then it ultimately turned out that they were siblings." And while Chaney associates Dom's lollipop more closely with Tootsie Pop-addicted Kojak than Lolita, this too may prove a skillful maneuver on the part of the showrunners to keep us on our toes. Guarding a soft underbelly beneath the hardened exterior of a gritty New York detective, Dom is a complex character, and I suspect what she's fully capable of is yet to be revealed.
Given its versatile role in these instances - encapsulating vulnerability and rage, innocence and dominance - what do we make of the lollipop? Once a symbol of budding sexuality meant for consumption, it seems this outdated trope has been co-opted. Perhaps these portrayals represent a move toward more fluid ideas of femininity, in which women are neither temptresses nor angels, but multifaceted beings who can exhibit more than one characteristic at a time?
Possibly. But it's also important not to take any of these overt dualisms at face value. Dr. Johanna Blakley, managing director at USC's Norman Lear Center, reminds us that the split persona of the demure villainess is both limited in scope and nothing new. This oppositional archetype "is endemic to Western discourse and its literary canon." From "Like a Virgin" to "Like a Prayer," Madonna built an entire career exploiting the virgin-whore dichotomy. We could even trace the lollipop's symbolism all the way back to when Eve tempted Adam with the apple or to stories of Sirens luring sailors with their entrancing songs.
These recent uses of the lollipop are certainly variations on this theme, but something else is different. Unlike Eve and the Sirens, when Amma and Dom engage this trope, it is not men who fall but women. It is in this context that Flynn's "sharp objects" become more broadly symbolic. They explicitly refer to the items used to murder those little girls and the razor blades Camille harms herself with, yes. But they also bring to the forefront those figuratively cited: the roller blades, rosebushes, and ribbons. These are the objects long used to minimize an entire gender to pretty playthings. Chaney describes them as symbols that "can be used counterintuitively to imply power. Historically speaking, society tends to not take girly things very seriously. They're deemed frivolous or silly and childish." In Sharp Objects and Mr. Robot, however, these items have been weaponized, sharpened to slice and dice the antiquated tales of flowery virgins to be saved by men or lascivious women who will bring down those same men. Those myths are much too simple, and showrunners like Flynn and Killing Eve's Phoebe Waller-Bridge know it. Perhaps this is the fundamental shift: that increasingly women are authoring stories about women, in which men are pushed to the peripheries.
Resistance or Acquiescence?
Villanelle (Jodie Comer) on Killing Eve. Image Source: Everett Collection
Consider the character Villanelle (Jodie Comer) in Waller-Bridge's Killing Eve. A modern-day Siren, Villanelle uses her feminine charms to beguile her targets, wears layers of pink tulle to taunt her superiors, and murders her victims with poisoned perfumes and hairpins she handles like the ice pick from Basic Instinct. Villanelle sees men as easily manipulated and entirely expendable. Her real fascination is with Eve (Sandra Oh), the woman charged with her capture. After killing Eve's investigative partner, Villanelle explains, "He was slowing you down." Similarly, after Amma sticks the lollipop in Camille's hair, she baits her sister into hitting her: "Be dangerous like Mama said. You could kill me right here, and you know what? Dickie boy still couldn't figure it out." It is as if Villanelle and Amma are enticing their respective rivals to play a game that's just for girls. This female autonomy imbues Killing Eve's title with biblical meaning. Beware old tales of women as mere objects of temptation or scorn - these shows are coming for you.
But maybe I'm getting ahead of myself. Such productions might have simply found a way to have their cake and eat it, too. Sure, our favorite female characters may be complex, confident, smart, tenacious, or cunning, with a thoughtful backstory. But it likely doesn't hurt that Harley Quinn looks pretty good licking that lollipop.
So, do these representations merely reinforce exploitative conventions? Blakley is optimistic, telling POPSUGAR that shows like Sharp Objects and Killing Eve "are being quite self-conscious about how they're using girly-ness [and] that in itself is a sign of progress." But Blakley cautions we have a long way to go until props like lollipops and dollhouses are seen as just that and not "inevitable signals of femininity."
Increasingly, women are authoring stories about women in which men are pushed to the peripheries.
Acknowledging that the use of "sexy female stereotypes" as a means to get norm-bending projects produced might seem naive to some, Blakley also understands how difficult it is to get subversive projects greenlit within the mainstream. But once they're out in the world, they "have a chance to challenge people's assumptions and create new perspectives on gender and sexuality."
Reclaiming Agency
Though the shifting signification of the lollipop may seem trivial, it speaks to a macrocosm of changes underway. Time is finally up for many things, and this includes the historic lack of women in the director's chair. More women behind the scenes means more opportunities to shatter clichés and reconfigure symbols - lollipops included - that have long been used to objectify women and girls.
Granted, access to leadership positions alone is not remedy enough, and some critics might perceive any engagement with reductive tropes as counterproductive. But shows like Sharp Objects, Mr. Robot, and Killing Eve push back on the very norms of gender and sexuality they are tethered to, leveraging outmoded emblems of femininity in order to redefine them. And in so doing, the women of film and television may finally be able to reclaim the agency once denied to Dolores "Lolita" Haze.
Nobody Was Prouder of Behati Prinsloo's VS Fashion Show Return Than Adam Levine
Following a two-year hiatus, Behati Prinsloo made a triumphant return to the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in NYC on Thursday, and nobody was prouder than her husband, Adam Levine. Even though the Maroon 5 frontman didn't walk the red carpet, he popped up inside and sat front row with Future, Alexander Wang, and Diplo. In a video shared by Elle, Adam was shown excitedly clapping and cheering on his wife as she strutted down the runway. After Behati spotted Adam in the audience, they started blowing kisses to each other. How cute is that? Once the show was over, Adam linked up with his wife and they hit up the VS afterparty.
Adam and Behati tied the knot back in 2014 and are parents to daughters Gio and Dusty. Prior to hitting the runway, Behati told POPSUGAR that Adam was the last person she would text before the show. "He's here, so I'm going to be like, 'Did you get your seat yet? You better be sitting!'" she said. We're glad Adam was able to find his seat on time!
What Are the Chances You'll Fall in Love With the New Backstreet Boys Video? Pretty Damn Good
The Backstreet Boys are back and here to stay, all right! After releasing their first single in almost five years, the band has been teasing their new song, "Chances," on social media all week long, and they finally dropped the music video on Thursday night. With lyrics like "Is it love? Is it fate? Where it leads who can say . . ." and "Like two in a million, like once in a life. That I could have found you, put my arms around you. Like two in a million, like once in a life," our hearts definitely weren't ready for this. As if that weren't enough, AJ McLean codirected the video and the boys look oh so handsome in their suits. We hope you have your box of tissues nearby, because this song is certainly going to tug at your heartstrings.
In Glorious Marvel News, Tom Hiddleston Will Star in Disney's New TV Series About Loki
Loki, who is famously one of Thanos's first victims in Avengers: Infinity War, will live again thanks to Disney's brand-new streaming service. Apparently the villain's quip about "no resurrections this time" wasn't as permanent as we all feared!
In a series of announcements made by the studio on Thursday, it was revealed there are plans to assemble live-action TV series around fan-favorite characters from the Marvel and Star Wars universes. In addition to a show centered around the antics of Rogue One's Rebel spy Cassian Andor, once again played by Diego Luna, Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger shared that the streaming service - officially titled Disney+ - is developing a show all about Tom Hiddleston's Loki, the god of mischief.
Other details about the series have yet to be unveiled, including a release date. But since Disney+ is scheduled to launch in the US in late 2019, it stands to reason that the Loki series will be ready at that time or shortly afterward. At this point, all we can do is cross our fingers that Thor makes it out of Avengers 4 alive so he can make a few cameos.
You Better Believe The Weeknd Showed Up to Support Bella Hadid at the VS Fashion Show
Bella Hadid returned to the runway for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in NYC on Thursday, and you better believe The Weeknd was front and center cheering her on. Despite skipping the red carpet, the singer popped up inside and was spotted sitting front row at the show with Bella's mom, Yolanda Hadid. He also mingled with Trevor Noah and Bella's sister, Gigi.
Of course, this isn't the first time The Weeknd has watched his girlfriend work her magic on the runway. Back in 2016, The Weeknd performed at the show, and he practically serenaded Bella as she hit the VS runway for the very first time with her sister Gigi. At the time, Bella and The Weeknd had just broken up after a year and a half together. Thankfully, they ended up reconciling this past Summer. Funny how things work out, huh?
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun: The Best Candid Moments From the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show
The time is finally here! The Victoria's Secret Angels took over the Big Apple for their annual fashion show on Thursday, and the supermodels totally crushed it. After taking a two-year hiatus, Behati Prinsloo was back and better than ever, while Gigi and Bella Hadid also returned, along with pal Kendall Jenner. Elsa Hosk had the honor of wearing the coveted Fantasy Bra, and to top things off, Halsey, Bebe Rexha, The Chainsmokers, Kelsea Ballerini, Rita Ora, Shawn Mendes, and The Struts all took the stage for special performances. Of course, it was also bittersweet, as the show was Adriana Lima's final. See the cutest candid moments ahead, and don't forget to catch the show when it airs on ABC on Sunday, Dec. 2.
Does Overlord Have a Postcredits Scene? Well, Here's the Deal
If you couldn't tell from the gory, truly insane trailer, Overlord is a f*cking blast. The film follows a group of World War II soldiers who find out during a mission in Nazi-occupied France that the Germans are engaging in some seriously gruesome experiments, some of them supernatural. So you can probably assume that there's plenty of blood and bone snapping throughout. What you might be wondering, however, is if the horror thriller has a postcredits scene, which is what we can help you out with.
The answer is no, it does not. Don't sit and wait through those lengthy credits unless you're into that sort of thing or you appreciate Nas, who has a killer song on the soundtrack that plays at the end of the film. In fact, the lack of a postcredits scene for this film is actually pretty surprising, given the somewhat open-ended way things wrap up. Although the heroes are able to complete the mission - well, most of them - it sure does seem like the final scene is hinting at a potential sequel.
But alas, it seems we'll just have to wait and see how Overlord does at the box office to find out if Boyce, Tibbet, Chloe, and the rest of the gang will fight evil once again.
Nicole Kidman Opens Up About Scientology and Her 2 Children With Tom Cruise
Image Source: Getty / Michael Tran
It's been some time since we've heard about Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise's two older children, but the actress has addressed them in a new interview. During their 10-year marriage, Tom and Nicole adopted Connor, 23, and Isabella, 25. After the couple split, the kids chose to live with Tom because they were practicing Scientologists. Now, Nicole is speaking out about her relationship with them in a very rare conversation.
"I'm very private about all that," she told Australia's Who magazine. "I have to protect all those relationships. I know 150 percent that I would give up my life for my children because it's what my purpose is."
Although Nicole has been married to Keith Urban since June 2006 and they have two daughters - Sunday Rose, 10, and Faith Margaret, 7 - she explained that that doesn't change any of the love she has for her children with Tom.
Related: This Is What Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise's Kids Are Up to Now
"They are adults," Nicole said. "They are able to make their own decisions. They have made choices to be Scientologists and as a mother, it's my job to love them. And I am an example of that tolerance and that's what I believe - that no matter what your child does, the child has love and the child has to know there is available love and I'm open here. I think that's so important because if that is taken away from a child, to sever that in any child, in any relationship, in any family - I believe it's wrong. So that's our job as a parent, to always offer unconditional love."
Image Source: Getty / Patrick Riviere
Related: Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban Bring Their Aussie Love All Over the World
In 2016, after neither Tom nor Nicole attended Isabella's wedding the year prior and rumors of estrangement were circling, their daughter addressed them head on. "Of course we talk, they're my parents. Anyone who says otherwise is full of sh*t," she told New Idea. Connor agreed with his sister, saying, "I don't care what people say. I know that me and mum are solid. I love her a lot. My family means everything."
It's possible that Nicole has held back from talking about her adopted children out of respect for their beliefs, but it's clear that there is nothing but love between the family.
Kristen Bell, Max Greenfield, and More Stars Who Will Be in Hulu's Veronica Mars Reboot
Veronica Mars fans got some seriously amazing news when it was announced that the show would be making a return in an 8-episode Hulu revival. Kristen Bell broke the news on Instagram herself, and we've been aching for more details ever since. Thankfully, Rob Thomas, the original creator of the show who will also be at the helm of the reboot, heard our cries and revealed some of the returning cast members.
From Bell's Mars to Max Greenfield's Leo (a sheriff's department deputy and former love interest of Veronica's), the show is making sure to get all the key characters back together for the continuation of the series. While us Marshmallows continue to wait on even more info, take a look at the first confirmed actors who will be gracing our screens when the series premieres, ahead.
Is Next Week REALLY the Finale of American Horror Story? Why We're Questioning It
Let's get real. I'm sure you clicked into this post, already dubious about the contents. But before you cry "clickbait," hear me out! Next week is almost certainly the finale of American Horror Story: Apocalypse. We have a preview for the episode that says it's the finale. Even very early on, that was the song everyone was singing. Check IMDb, check Wikipedia, check all the other outlets. It's 10 episodes! But based on where we are in the story, based on the fact that Ryan Murphy is loves drama and twists, based on the fact that the finale is called "Apocalypse Then" . . . what if there are more than 10 episodes?
Let's break this down piece by piece. First of all, let's consider where we are in the season. After merely three episodes in the present timeline (you know, when the apocalypse is in full effect), we have since flashed back to a space in time that's three years before the apocalypse. That's where we've been for the last six (yes, six!) episodes. Sure, there's been plenty of important information in these six episodes. We've basically seen how Michael came to be, why he hates the witches so much, and how he brought about the apocalypse. But even by the end of the ninth episode, we still haven't caught up to the current storyline.
Even in the preview for next week, it's clear we're going to dedicate a chunk of the finale to this past timeline. We have to see how Cordelia manages to erase the identities of Malloy, Coco, and Dinah. Then, we have to see how the witches survive the apocalypse. Then, and only then, will we be caught up to the place we were at in episode three.
Even when we get to that point, there's still so much we have to tie up! We have to see a final showdown between Michael and the witches. A showdown that presumably includes Fiona, Delphine, and Marie. We have to get answers about Timothy and Emily! What's their role in all this? What are Mallory's true powers? Is she really the Supreme? What is this supposed Sanctuary Michael has been talking about? With all that, we then have to arrive at some kind of conclusion. And you're telling me we can get all that done in, like, 43 minutes? Seems like a pretty tall order, even for AHS.
There are other things pointing to a potential fake-out. There's the fact that Murphy has before teased double installments of the show, one in Fall and one in Spring. There's the fact that he's working on a secret season that he place to "shoot on the sly" and drop without notice. These quotes aren't necessarily related to the surprise bank of episodes I'm hoping for, but rather they're a signifier that Ryan Murphy always has more tricks up his sleeve. I fully believe he's capable of shooting three additional episodes right under our noses. It would be such a fun twist.
Plus, like I said, the supposed "finale" is called "Apocalypse Then." If that doesn't sound unfinished, like a big 'ol loose end, then I don't know what does. OK, I've said my piece! In all likelihood, I'm wrong and we'll get a very slapped-together ending to an already helter-skelter season. But I'm holding onto hope, just for a little bit longer.
Another Live-Action Jungle Book Movie Is on the Way - Watch the Stunning Trailer For Mowgli
How many film adaptations of Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book do we really need? I'd argue just one (Disney's 1967 animated version, obviously). But it seems the tale is the subject of newfound fascination, given Disney's live-action reboot of the story in 2016 and Netflix's similarly live-action Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle, which aims to stay truer to Kipling's gritty novel than any previous film has.
In the trailer above, director Andy Serkis - who knows his way around a CGI-heavy film thanks to his work in the Planet of the Apes and Lord of the Rings franchises - introduces us to young newcomer Rohan Chand, who is joined by the voices of Benedict Cumberbatch, Christian Bale, and Cate Blanchett. Check out the stunning footage before it arrives on Netflix on Dec. 7!
Why Meredith and Derek's Relationship Would Never Work on Grey's Anatomy Today
In all of Grey's Anatomy history, none of the show's many couples come even close to being as iconic as Meredith and Derek. The pair overcome hurdle after hurdle on their journey to love and Post-it note proposals, which is why Derek's untimely death still hurts so damn much. However, their romance would look markedly different if the first season of Grey's Anatomy were to come out today, and for good reason.
During a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, showrunner Krista Vernoff pointed out how the pair's relationship looks different now that the Time's Up and #MeToo movements have started.
"If you look at, for example, Meredith Grey and Derek Shepherd through the lens of Time's Up and #MeToo, he was her boss, she was an intern, and she kept saying, 'No, walk away from me,' and he kept pursuing her," Vernoff said. "And that is probably not a story we would tell on the show today, and it's a rare, beautiful reflection of the changing times."
With that perspective on the table, it makes Meredith's season 15 relationship with resident Andrew DeLuca, who's her subordinate, all the more sensitive. As DeLuca's boss, Vernoff says she and the writers are "doing a little bit of a reversal" in trying to build up their relationship.
"We're having to address it differently than we ever would have before," Vernoff explained. "We're having to talk about and look at power dynamics. It is an ongoing conversation in the writers room. How do we tell that story in a way that feels honest and romantic and sexy and yet proactive and progressive?"
Now that Dr. Link is in the mix, it will be interesting to see how Grey's Anatomy handles Meredith's romantic future going forward.
Sorry If We're Distracted, but We Can't Stop Thinking About Jennifer Lopez's Abs in Her New Video
After much anticipation, Jennifer Lopez finally dropped her new single, "Te Gusto," with Bad Bunny on Thursday, and boy, was it worth the wait. Not only do we get to hear Lopez sing in Spanish again, but in the accompanying music video, the 49-year-old shows off her incredible abs and famous curves in a tiny yellow bikini. Abs. Bikini. J Lo. Need we say more? Grab a cold towel and watch the video now.
So You Saw Bohemian Rhapsody and Want to Revisit Queen's Hits? Here's the Full Soundtrack
If you're like me, you recently spent a weekend afternoon sitting in a dark movie theater, chowing down on popcorn and watching Rami Malek take on the role of iconic Queen frontman Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody. If you're even more like me, you got out of the theater, popped in a pair of earbuds, and immediately queued up Queen's greatest hits on your phone. We're so alike, you and I.
Anyway, there's no denying the fact that Queen is responsible for some of the greatest, most epic anthems of our time - and from "We Will Rock You" to "Another One Bites the Dust" to, yes, "Bohemian Rhapsody," the new biopic features live and remastered versions of these universal bangers, as well as a few lesser-known (though equally incredible) tunes on its soundtrack. We've rounded up the songs from the movie that will have you bopping in your seat or on the street.
Every Show That Has Been Canceled in 2018
Image Source: Showtime, Everett Collection, The CW
After a stellar 2017 full of exceptional TV shows, we almost forgot that we might have to say goodbye to a few of them in the following year. Now that we've reached November, plenty of networks have already given shows like Good Behavior, One Mississippi, Damnation, Ghosted, Roseanne, and The Break With Michelle Wolf the ax. Amazon and Netflix have been big offenders, but series on networks like NBC, The CW, and ABC aren't safe, either. Pour one out for the shows that have taken their last TV gasp ahead.
ABC
- The Middle: Nine seasons later, ABC is putting this sitcom out to pasture.
- Roseanne: The family sitcom was initially granted a second season of the reboot (an 11th season overall), until one of Roseanne Barr's many racist tweets triggered its cancellation.
- Once Upon a Time: The long-running fairy-tale series will wrap up after its current seventh season.
- The Mayor: Lea Michele starred in the brand new comedy about a hip-hop artist who runs for mayor to promote his mixtape, but it didn't make it past its midseason break.
- Alex Inc: The freshman comedy about a podcast host, which starred Zach Braff, only lasted one season.
- The Crossing: This sci-fi show had a Lost vibe to it, but ultimately its convoluted story lead to its cancellation.
- Deception: We're sorry to report that you'll no longer get to see the antics of a Las Vegas magician helping the FBI solve cases now that this show has been canceled after one season.
- Marvel's Inhumans: Awful red wigs weren't the only problem with this show, which thankfully only lasted one season.
- Quantico: Say goodbye to one of the sexiest casts around, because this FBI drama is over after a three-season run.
- Kevin (Probably) Saves the World: The freshman dramedy starring Jason Ritter wasn't picked up for a second season.
- Designated Survivor: ABC's political drama will end after just two seasons this Spring. Lucky for fans, Netflix revived the show for a third season.
Amazon
- Mozart in the Jungle: Despite picking up two Golden Globes in 2016, Amazon canceled the romantic musical series after four seasons starring Gael Garcia Bernal.
- One Mississippi: This Amazon original series and dark comedy was inspired by real events in comic Tig Notaro's life and lasted two seasons.
- I Love Dick: The adaptation of Chris Kraus's novel of the same name aired for one season and starred Kevin Bacon and Kathryn Hahn.
- Jean-Claude Van Johnson: Jean-Claude Van Damme's comedic spy series is no more after a six-episode run.
- Transparent: The show's fifth season will be its last.
AMC
- Dietland: Despite positive reviews from critics, this dark AMC dramedy has been canceled after its first season run.
CBS
- The Big Bang Theory: The geeky comedy will bid fans adieu for the last time when it airs its 12th and final season.
- Me, Myself & I: The freshman series will not be back for another season.
- Scorpion: The drama starring Katherine McPhee was canceled after four seasons.
- Kevin Can Wait: The Kevin James comedy was not picked up for a third season.
- Code Black: After three seasons, the medical drama came to an end.
Comedy Central
- Nathan For You: The comedy starring Nathan Fielder was canceled a year after season four premiered.
The CW
- Life Sentence: Lucy Hale's dramedy has been canceled after just one season.
- The Originals: After five seasons, this Vampire Diaries spinoff is wrapping up for good.
- Valor: This military drama starring Matt Barr and Christina Ochoa will end after its first season 13-episode run.
- iZombie: The upcoming fifth season of the zombie comedy will be its last.
Fox
- Ghosted: Adam Scott and Craig Robinson's supernatural comedy got the ax after just one season.
- The Exorcist: This modern-day take on the classic horror tale lasted two seasons.
- Last Man on Earth: After three odd and funny seasons, Will Forte's comedy is gone for good.
- The Mick: Kaitlin Olson's raunchy comedy had a two season run.
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Though it's beloved by critics and fans, this cop comedy will not return for a sixth season on Fox, but fortunately NBC picked it up!
- New Girl: Zooey Deschanel's quirky comedy is coming to an end after seven seasons.
Freeform
- The Fosters: Despite a strong fan base for the family drama, it was canceled after five seasons. Fortunately a spinoff is in the works!
- Famous in Love: The Bella Thorne vehicle is no longer.
- Shadowhunters: The series will end after its current season.
Hulu
- The Path: Aaron Paul's cult drama is over, but luckily you'll be able to see him over on HBO's Westworld soon enough.
- Chance: Hugh Laurie's thriller will not get a third season from the streaming network.
- Shut Eye: The Jeffrey Donovan-led drama has been axed after two seasons.
- Please Like Me: Hulu apparently didn't "like" this Australian comedy enough, since it's been canceled after four seasons.
- UnREAL: The show's fourth season will serve as its last.
MTV
- The Shannara Chronicles: This sci-fi fantasy show based on a popular YA series only lasted two seasons before MTV gave it the boot.
Image Source: NBC
NBC
- Great News: Funny and heartfelt, it was a surprise to many when this show ended after two seasons.
- Rise: This musical drama had a controversial start, which perhaps we should've taken as a sign it wouldn't last more than one season.
- Champions: The Mindy Kaling and Anders Holm comedy aired its first and only season earlier this year.
- Harry: Despite Harry Connick Jr.'s charm, his talk show was canceled after two seasons.
- Shades of Blue: Jennifer Lopez's cop will end with a 10-episode third season.
- The Brave: This military-themed series was relatively well-received, but it wasn't enough to save it from being canceled after its freshman season.
- The Night Shift: This four-season medical drama has taken its last breath.
- Taken: The TV version of Liam Neeson's big screen hit is being taken off the air after two seasons.
Netflix
- House of Cards: Season six will be Claire Underwood's final chance to raise hell in DC.
- The Break with Michelle Wolf: Michelle Wolf's star has been on the rise after her kickass appearance at the White House Correspondents Dinner, but Netflix decided to shut her late night show down after just a handful of episodes.
- Chelsea: Netflix hasn't been kind to weekly late night shows, also giving Chelsea Handler's talk show the ax after two seasons.
- The Joel McHale Show with Joel McHale: See what we meant about talk shows? This series was also canceled, after just one season.
- Lady Dynamite: Comedian Maria Bamford's comedy has been canceled after only two seasons.
- Disjointed: Our love of Kathy Bates couldn't save Chuck Lorre's weed comedy from getting the ax after season one.
- Everything Sucks!: In news that, well, sucks, Netflix has decided not to move forward with this quirky '90s comedy that aired for just one season.
- Seven Seconds: Regina King won an Emmy for her performance in the crime drama, but it won't return for season two.
- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Season four will be this comedy's last.
Paramount Network
- American Woman: Apparently even Alicia Silverstone's charm wasn't enough to keep this period piece on the air for longer than one season.
- Heathers: The long-gestating reboot of the '80s film never made it to air, but is reportedly being shopped around.
Showtime
- The Affair: Ruth Wilson and Dominic West's drama will end with its fifth and final season.
- Dice: The semi-autobiographical series starring Andrew Dice Clay has been canceled after two seasons.
- Homeland: Claire Danes confirmed the show's upcoming eighth season will be its last.
- I'm Dying Up Here: The drama has been canceled after two seasons.
Starz
- Ash vs. Evil Dead: The gory, Bruce Campbell-starring comedy is dead (like, really dead) after three seasons.
SyFy
- The Expanse: SyFy pulled the plug on this show after season three, but luckily a strong fan base convinced Amazon to pick it up for season four.
- 12 Monkeys: The sci-fi series won't go on after it's fourth season.
- Blood Drive: The network pulled the plug on this series after one season.
TBS
- People of Earth: The Wyatt Cenac-led sci-fi comedy was canceled after two seasons.
TNT
- Good Behavior: Michelle Dockery's TNT drama was canceled in November after two seasons.
USA Network
- Damnation: Logan Marshall-Green's tense drama about "the secret history of the 1930s American heartland" had the plug pulled after just one season.
- Shooter: The action-thriller is ending after season three.
- Mr. Robot: Rami Malek's hacker drama will air for a final fourth season.
36 Brand New Movies That Will Get You Through Thanksgiving, the Holidays, and Beyond
Now that the incredible batch of Fall movies are handing over the reins to Hollywood's Winter slate, it's time get even more excited for what's to come. Creed II and Robin Hood will take us into Thanksgiving, while everything from Mary Poppins Returns to Mary Queen of Scots will arrive in theaters as the temperatures start to plummet. Take a look at everything coming out over the next few months, ahead!
WHOA: There's a Reason the High School From Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Looks So Familiar
If you've been watching Chilling Adventures of Sabrina on Netflix, chances are you've picked up on a lot of cool and creepy details. Like that very subtle Riverdale cameo, or the addictive (and very well-thought-out) soundtrack. But if you're like me, a fellow Netflix junkie who is also obsessed with To All the Boys I've Loved Before, another thing you probably noticed not too far into episode one is how familiar Sabrina's school, Baxter High, looks. While Greendale's version is obviously a lot darker with gray, green, and maroon tones (much like Sabrina's killer wardrobe), the halls seem eerily similar to Adler High School, the one attended by Lara Jean Covey and Peter Kavinsky in TATBILB.
While there doesn't seem to be any confirmation that Sabrina and TATBILB were filmed at the same school, there are clues. Many scenes for both were shot in Vancouver, British Columbia, which means it's pretty likely they could have used the same school for hallway scenes (Sabrina used Lord Strathcona Elementary School in Vancouver for exterior shots). Another very telling clue is that some of TATBILB's high school scenes were shot at Point Grey Secondary School, which has also been used in Riverdale, the show that shares a universe with Sabrina.
Maybe TATBILB also shares a universe with Sabrina and Riverdale and we just don't know it yet because of some spell cast by b*tchy Aunt Zelda? Or maybe Lara Jean wrote a sixth love letter to Ambrose, because, let's face it, that warlock is hot? OK, fine - while we know these two Netflix hits are in no way connected, we can still eat up the fact that their characters probably walked the same halls. To see more of the schools' similarities, keep reading.
Holy Sh*t: American Horror Story Might Be Bringing Back Three MORE Faves in the Finale
Just when you thought things couldn't get more insane on American Horror Story: Apocalypse, it seems like the show is pulling out all the stops for the finale. All season long, fans have been theorizing hard about the return of three Coven favorites who have, up until now, been absent. They are, of course, the biggest players from the season in question: Fiona Goode, Madame Delphine LaLaurie, and Marie Laveau. And it wouldn't be out of the question for them to pop up! After all, Jessica Lange already returned for an episode, and Kathy Bates has had a huge role in the original season. And as for Angela Bassett, she seemed ready to jump back in during a recent interview.
Well, guess what, witches? We may have just gotten confirmation that all three of these queens are coming back. The first sliver of evidence comes from the preview for the season's final episode. In one flash, you can see Michael violently pushing Constance up against the wall. Some of the footage from the teaser has been recycled from earlier in the season, yes, but this is one scene that did not appear in the "Return to Murder House" episode.
This means Lange will almost certainly appear in the finale! And, I mean, if she's already on set as Constance Langdon, it would be pretty easy for her to throw on a black dress and cast some spells, right?! Maybe it's wishful thinking, but I feel like it would be remiss not to include Fiona, one of the most iconic characters from Coven, in a season that's basically amounted to Coven Part Two. And as for Bassett, I'm pretty sure you can spot her, in all her glory, during a split second shot from the very same preview.
Tell me that's not the gorgeous, perfectly toned arm of my immortal voodoo queen! Tell me those aren't her glorious butt-length tresses! It's really seeming like Cordelia might bring back some of the biggest guns to defeat evil for good. Who knows, maybe she even gives Papa Legba another ring after a change of heart. And as for Bates? I mean, we know she's in the episode, too, so it wouldn't be out of the question to expect an appearance from Madame Delphine LaLaurie. (Then again, I guess she's not technically even a witch, just a horrible racist white woman who was cursed with immortality by Laveau. I digress!)
To make matters even more suspect, we have the final nail in the coffin: a note so subtle Instagram post by the AHS creator himself, Ryan Murphy.
"They Know What They Need To Do," Murphy wrote in the caption. Well, considering Miss Mead is on Michael's side, this would definitely add weight to Delphine coming back. As for Lange, Murphy could be talking about Constance, it's true. Constance would be instrumental in defeating Michael if some kind of time reversal thing happened. And, well, Bassett hasn't appeared, so this basically double confirms her appearance. And, I mean, he refers to them as such a unit, I'd have a hard time believing he's talking about Constance over Fiona.
So there you have it. Seems like AHS is really about to bring it home with a mind-melting conclusion.
15 Collaborations That Prove Rihanna Is the Ultimate Musical Team Player
Besides her bustling acting career and gorgeous makeup line, Rihanna is also, without a doubt, a beloved pop icon. As one of the music industry's biggest names, she has worked with a range of different artists, including Drake, Nicki Minaj, and even Sir Paul McCartney! With an effortlessly sexy presence and vulnerable, yet powerful vocals, Bad Girl RiRi shines in every project that she's featured in, from Kendrick Lamar's Grammy-winning "Loyalty" to an SNL digital short spoof with Andy Samberg. If you can't get enough of Rihanna, keep scrolling to listen to her very best music collaborations.
53 Celebrity Couples We Can't Wait to See Walk Down the Aisle
We're nearing the end of 2018, and a ton of our favorite celebrities have already tied the knot. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married at St. George's Chapel in May, and Harry Potter alum Matthew Lewis and Angela Jones had a destination wedding over Memorial Day weekend. Of course, they aren't the only celebrity couples hearing wedding bells. Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas, Lady Gaga and Christian Carino, and Lea Michele and Zandy Reich are all getting ready to say "I do," but who will make the trek down the aisle first? Guess we'll just have to wait and see.
Prince William and Kate Middleton Light Up London With Their Glamorous Date Night
It was date night for Prince William and Kate Middleton at the Tusk Conservation Awards in London on Thursday. William channeled James Bond in a fancy black tux, while Kate opted for a gorgeous turquoise Jenny Packham gown, which she first wore in 2012 for an Olympic concert at Royal Albert Hall. During the ceremony, the royals met with the nominees and supporters of the conservation charity, and William even took the stage for a speech.
The Tusk Trust is one of William's key charities, and he's been a royal patron since 2005. The organization likely holds a special place in William's heart as Princess Diana was a patron of the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage, an organization similar to the Tusk Trust that rescues and cares for orphaned, abandoned, and sick wild animals. "[My mother, Diana] would come back [from Africa] with all these stories and full of excitement and just passion for what she'd been doing," William said in a 2013 interview with CNN. "I applaud her for all her dedication and drive in doing that. And it was that, I think, that infectious enthusiasm and the energy that she had that really rubbed off on me." See photos from Will and Kate's glamorous night out ahead.
Related: Why Prince William Wants Prince Charles to Spend More Time With His Grandkids
jeudi 8 novembre 2018
Disney World's First Castle-Lighting Show of the Holiday Season Will Be Livestreamed!
Get excited, Disney fans, because you can kick off the holiday season by tuning in to watch this year's first castle-lighting show at the Magic Kingdom! The show is called "A Frozen Holiday Wish," and it features all your favorite Frozen characters as Elsa uses her special powers to transform Cinderella Castle into a shining, icy palace. You can watch the excitement with your little ones on Thursday, Nov. 8 at 6:10 p.m. ET, when the Disney Parks Blog will stream the Magic Kingdom's nightly show.
In the meantime, find out why you need to visit Disney World around the holidays with your kids at least once in your life, then get going on your holiday shopping list by checking out the new Disney princess subscription boxes!
My Parents Got Divorced This Year: Here's How I'm Navigating the Holidays
While watching your parents get divorced is never fun regardless of how old you are, it's a particularly otherworldly experience when you go through it as an adult. For starters, you understand what's going on. And because you're a full-fledged person, you're often expected to take sides or share your opinions. This little conundrum can be especially trying during the holidays, when grown kids often feel like there's not enough time to appease both sides.
As a 20-something whose mom and dad are currently in the process of splitting up - aka living separately but not legally divorced just yet - I'm going through the process of divvying up my holidays for the first time. And while I might not have all the answers to handling the season with grace, here are a few things I've learned that may help other families in the same boat navigate the er, awkwardness.
Elf on the Shelf Now Offers More Inclusive Options, and We Love the Tradition Even More
Ah, Elf on the Shelf. The beloved tradition, which inspires kids to be on their best behavior before Santa Claus comes, has been around for a while now. Parents love hiding them, and kids love waking up to find the elaborate schemes they pulled during the night. They bring joy and magic to families during the holidays, but there was one major problem with them for a while: Elf on the Shelf only offered one standard Elf - a brunette, blue-eyed male. This has rightfully been rectified in recent years (although they can still do so much more), and families can now choose their elf from a few genders and skin tones ($30). Keep reading to see the new additions to this Santa-helping crew!
The 10 Moms You Can't Unsee Barely Hanging On at the Airport
If there's anything worse than the airport, it's the people inside of it. From flight delays to overcrowded gates, the confines of the airport leave a lot to be desired, let alone the plane. So who are you likely to see struggling the most inside of the airport? Parents, of course. Whether they're traveling with infants or toddlers, we've boiled these frustrated flyers down to 10 types.
Santa Came Early! Disney Channel Is Featuring Holiday Episodes of All of Your Kids' Favorite Shows
Just like the news of Target's Black Friday sales, Santa himself has come a little early this year in the form of Disney Channel and Disney Junior holiday-themed episodes of your kids' favorite shows. Beginning on Friday, Nov. 23, in celebration of "25 Days of Christmas," brand-new episodes of Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, and more will premiere on their respective networks through the beginning of December.
Read more about the special episodes ahead, and set your DVR now so your kids can enjoy the holiday episodes all season long! (And in case you don't have a DVR, don't fret: these episodes will also be available in the DisneyNOW app from Nov. 23, 2018, through Jan. 1, 2019.)
Snow Will Fall at Harry Potter World For Christmas This Year, So Cue the Family Photos!
The holidays are about to get even more magical and picturesque at Universal Studios Hollywood. From Nov. 17, 2018, through Jan. 6, 2019, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter will transform into a Winter wonderland, complete with nightly snowfall in Hogsmeade! That's right, folks - for the first time ever, artificial snow will descend from the skies to make you feel like you're Christmas shopping at the real Honeydukes Sweetshop and not simply strolling though a theme park in Southern California with your kids who won't stop nagging you about buying chocolate frogs.
To make matters even more exciting, a dazzling lights and music show will illuminate the Hogwarts castle each night, just like last year. Oh, and the theme park is now offering a "buy a day, get a second day free" deal, too, so yeah, we'll see you at Harry Potter World this Christmas. Meet us at the butterbeer station?
15 Different and Fun Places to Spend the Holidays That Aren't Disney
Holiday traditions often leave families staying in (or visiting) the same place year after year. But what if you just want to get away? Use your kids' time off from school for a family vacation? Not deal with the stress of entertaining and keeping your house clean? Luckily, there are a ton of festive destinations you can escape to this holiday season that aren't the ever-popular Disney parks. From the city that never sleeps to the city that's known for chocolate, there are lots of great places across the US that you should add to your holiday vacation bucket list. If you're ready to unlock a different kind of magic this year, keep reading.
Attention, Pet-Lovers: These Gifts Are Perfect For the Paw-lidays
Happy paw-lidays, howl-idays, and everything in between to all the pet-loving people out there! The holiday season is just another great reason to shower the four-legged friends in your life with treats, toys, and top-notch goodies.
The pet-lover on your holiday list needs something that will double as a present for them and their furry family member, and these presents do just that. With everything from personalized pet portraits to hats specially for cats, we have something for everyone to enjoy.
Happy shopping, Santa Paws!
Every Kid on the Good List Deserves These Giant Marshmallow Gingerbread Peeps This Year
Peeps are one of those candies that people either love or hate. Regardless of where you stand on the taste factor, there's no denying that these Giant Marshmallow Gingerbread Men ($1 each) should be in your kids' stockings this year.
While we're huge fans of Peeps all year round, there's definitely something special about these gigantic gingerbread men. They stand at four inches tall - that's about the size of four regular Peeps - and come coated in brown sugar. Obviously, like any gingerbread man worth his weight, each one has an adorable smile on his face.
According to the Peeps website, the gingerbread men are sold out for the time being. However, you can still snag them at stores throughout the US. Oh, and PS, you can also pick up some of your kiddos' favorite treats in snowmen, Christmas tree, and reindeer shapes!
This Dog Found a Clam on the Beach, and We've Never Seen Pure Joy Quite Like This
He found a clam! A CLAM!!!
Posted by George Dumaine on Friday, November 2, 2018
As a proud dog owner, I've quickly learned the importance of having your camera ready if you plan to capture those all-too-silly moments. Thankfully, George Dumaine is on the same page as me, because he shared the most perfect video of his dog finding a clam on the beach, and it's possibly the purest thing we've ever seen. He appropriately captioned the clip "He found a clam! A CLAM!!!" and yep, that pretty much sums it up. George shared the hilarious video to Facebook on Nov. 2, and it instantly blew up. So far, the post has racked up more than 244,000 shares and 50,000 comments, and it's easy to see why: we don't flippin' deserve dogs!
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.
Dear Candy Canes, as a Parent, I Seriously Hate You
Dear Candy Canes,
You know the famous tale about how the Grinch stole Christmas? Well, I think it was actually you. I mean, first of all, just look at you. You put on such a front. You're so nicely wrapped and packaged that no one would ever think you'd cause such misery. You hang so nicely from Christmas tree branches, over the tops of stockings, and are the perfect finishing touch to any holiday present. You smell good. You come in an assortment of colors - the traditional red and white peppermint is my personal favorite - and (mostly good) flavors. And you're, I'll admit, delicious. Yes, you are the quintessential holiday symbol and treat. But while you scream holiday cheer, you put parents everywhere into a state of madness. And I mean madness.
How many parents have found remnants of you in the most unusual spots in their homes? After a seemingly innocent trip to the mall to meet Santa Claus or a family gathering with generous aunts and uncles, your sweet treats get sucked on for a few minutes before they're dropped or forgotten. I can't tell you how many old, nasty pieces of you I've found in the back of our car during the holiday season (and in the months after). I basically have to pry you off my kids' car seats with pliers for crying out loud! I've found you in their beds (sneaky little stinkers) and the worst place of all, the dryer. Yes, somehow the remnants of you made it through the wash cycle and into the dryer, only to be smudged all over my son's jeans, ruining the rest of that load of laundry.
Thanks a lot.
Did I mention the stickiness? DID I?! Parents of toddlers everywhere loathe the site of you, you red-and-white-striped holiday cheer stealer. Instead of our sweet children calmly enjoying you as a treat, we're left chasing them around and wiping their fingers and mouths at all times making sure they don't touch Aunt Suzy's new white couch. And parents all know that having a daughter takes things to a whole different level. My daughter has gotten many of you caught in her hair. It takes forever to get you out without cutting her beautiful locks! So. Much. Screaming.
So, candy canes, while you may look nice, you definitely belong on the naughty list. You're a hindrance to our holiday cheer. No, you're a holiday cheer bandit. If you can somehow get a hold of all of your sticky behavior, maybe, just maybe, I'll let you enter my home again. But until then, you're staying the hell out of my kids' stockings, our Christmas tree, and my daughter's hair.
From,
The Grinchiest Mom Out There
Oprah's Favorite Things Just Launched on Amazon! See All 104 Gift Ideas Now
YOU get a gift, YOU get a gift, YOU get a gift - Santa has nothing on Oprah Winfrey. People all over the country are seriously flipping out because Oprah's Favorite Things have been revealed for 2018. The best part of all? Everything is available on Amazon for purchase right this instant. We created your ultimate guide to everything available, so it's easy to see each product. Shop through it all, and get something before it sells out - if Oprah recommends it, you know it won't be sticking around for much longer. Let's get that holiday shopping out of the way today!
Let It Snow! 26 of the Coziest, Cutest, Sturdiest Snow Boots For Kids
Besides tackling your kids' holiday gift lists, your other first order of business is probably making sure their precious little toes are warm, cozy, and waterproofed with a good pair of snow boots. Not only do these Winter-ready kicks offer up function in the form of slip-proof soles and lots of insulation, but they're also super cute and stylish. From metallic moon boots that will make sure your little one stands out at the next snowball fight to critter-covered styles that will keep your toddler's feet snug and cute on the preschool playground, these 26 Winter boots are items that you need and your child will most definitely want.
Add This Fast and Healthy Instant Pot Sweet Potato Soup Recipe to Your Fall Dinner Rotation
Fall soups are one of the best things about this season, whether it's for a healthy weeknight dinner or as part of a larger holiday meal. At these holiday parties with a lot of guests, however, it becomes difficult to accommodate all the different food aversions, allergies, and sensitivities. This sweet potato soup recipe is incredibly easy and quick to make in an Instant Pot and will be loved by everyone - from eaters with no restrictions to those following gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegan diets.
Note that this recipe is measured for the smaller Instant Pot Mini Plus, so if you have a larger pot and want to double it, go right ahead!
Here are the simple steps to make this soup.
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