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.
samedi 1 décembre 2018
You Have to Really Love Sleep to Wear This Travel Pillow, and We'll Take 2, Please
Absurd or absurdly comfortable? That's a decision only you can make. The head-hugging design of the OstrichPillow Original Travel Pillow ($99) promises to wrap you like a cocoon, blocking out your surroundings so you can get some sleep and feel calm and rested for your next vacation. It's perfect for airplanes, trains, long car rides (as long as you're not driving), and any time you want to block out the loud person next to you. Essentially, this is just the pillow your life needs.
While the reviews of this kooky pillow are a bit mixed, there are some definite fans, and for a variety of reasons. "I travel frequently to visit my girlfriend and this works great to block out light and noise on my flight," one Amazon customer wrote. "Her dog is a little freaked out by my face when I wear it, so I like to spook her with it for free entertainment." There you have it, friends.
If you're like us, you'll try anything to feel more at ease on a flight, including wearing a pillow like it's any other fashion accessory. However, if the enclosure is just a bit too much for you to handle, you can always rest your head on it like a normal pillow, but where's the fun in that?
Scroll through to see just how cozy this pillow can be, whether you want to take a nap under your desk or hide yourself away from your weird ex-boyfriend - or, you know, finally sleep on a flight.
vendredi 30 novembre 2018
Good Luck Destroying This $43 Christmas Tree, Cats of the World - It’s Practically Untouchable
If you've ever fallen down a black hole of internet videos showcasing up-to-no-good cats jumping onto unsuspecting Douglas firs and knocking the entire thing over, you know it's a very common occurrence for cat owners. People have done all sorts of things to try and outsmart their pets - this year we spotted someone who put up a cage around the tree to keep them out - but a new fake option available at the UK's Argos may have solved this holiday mishap once and for all.
The Argos Home 6 Ft. Half Parasol Christmas Tree ($43) may be tall, but the bottom half is intentionally gutted so you can keep your lights and ornaments out of pets or kids' reach. Genius if you ask us!
A Beignet Burger Has Arrived at Walt Disney World, and I'm at a Loss For Words
Because beignets evidently aren't indulgent enough, Walt Disney World just introduced a jaw-dropping sweet-and-savory variation: the beignet cheeseburger. At the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory located in the Port Orleans Resort, visitors can now order the unconventional burger.
At $14, the new menu item consists of a patty sandwiched between two beignet "buns" and topped with American cheese, bacon jam, pickled onions, lettuce, and pickles. To really drive it all home, the beignets are dusted with powdered sugar. The burger also comes with thick-cut steak fries and a small cup of coleslaw. See pictures of the truly over-the-top entree ahead.
40 Funny White Elephant Gifts That Will Leave Everyone Laughing Hard This Holiday Season
The pressure is on! White elephant gift exchanges are an ideal excuse to sit around with your friends and have a good laugh. If you want to bring the most hilarious present to the group, we've got you covered. These clever choices will have your buds cracking up all season long. Shop through these popular picks before they sell out.
35 Affordable Gifts Tailored For Teens
Nothing feels better than when you give someone you care about the totally perfect present. The challenge to achieving that feeling is actually finding the ideal gift. Teenagers can sometimes be tricky to shop for, especially since they're going through so many major transitions in their lives. Lucky for you, we have found all kinds of affordable products that teens will adore. Check out all 50 of our finds for under $70!
This Cat Gives High Fives at a CrossFit Gym, and Wow, Best Cheerleader Ever?
How do you usually finish a sweat sesh: chug some more water? Fist-bump your fellow class-goer with a look that says, "Thank god we survived?" Head to the showers? Grab a eucalyptus towel if you're at a bougie high-end gym? No matter what your post-workout ritual is, you've been doing it all wrong.
Turns out, there's only one way to end a fitness class, and that's with a high five from a cat. I didn't realize how much I needed a paw-bump from an encouraging feline until I watched this video from CrossFit's Instagram. The friendly tabby gave CrossFitters high fives as they jogged by at a CrossFit box in China. He didn't miss a beat as he stuck his paw out for each patron that jogged past.
You know what my dog does when I finish a workout? Nothing - she just stares at me to be let out for the hundredth time that day. I'm not much of a cat person, but this CrossFit cat has convinced me every gym and fitness class needs one.
The 17 Funniest Gifts of 2018 Will Make You Laugh So Hard, Your Stomach Will Hurt
If you're looking for presents for the friend who isn't afraid to get silly, we've found the perfect stuff. Whether you are headed to a white elephant party or just want to treat a loved one to something hilarious, we've got you covered. Keep looking to see these hysterical gift ideas for your comical pal.
Starbucks Just Dropped a New Holiday Latte, and It Tastes Like Christmas in a Cup
Move over, Peppermint Mocha and Gingerbread Latte. There's a new holiday beverage at Starbucks - the Juniper Latte - and it takes the festive vibes to a whole new level. Inspired by a similar drink that was served last year exclusively at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Seattle, this updated version of the Juniper Latte starts with Starbucks signature espresso and steamed milk and incorporates juniper-flavored syrup. (FYI, juniper is that evergreen tree or shrub that produces those tiny blue berries used to flavor gin. Sadly, the Juniper Latte is gin-free.) The warm and wintry drink is finished with creamy foam and a sprinkling of pine-citrus sugar, making for a Christmasy concoction best enjoyed while wearing a flannel shirt and listening to Mariah Carey's "All I Was For Christmas Is You" on repeat.
The new and improved Juniper Latte was released on Nov. 27 at Starbucks stores in both the US and Canada for a limited time while supplies last. If the tempting flavors aren't enough to make you sprint to the nearest Starbucks to order a venti-sized Juniper Latte, there's another incentive to do so. On Dec. 1, Starbucks will honor World AIDS Day by donating 20 cents for every latte purchased, including the Juniper Latte, to help (RED) fight against AIDS. Ahead, catch a glimpse at the Juniper Latte in all its Christmas-ready glory, and start preparing your tastebuds now for those pine-citrus sugar crystals.
How to Hard-Boil Eggs in an Instant Pot, Which Makes Peeling SO Easy
I'm a new Instant Pot user and have avoided cooking eggs for months out of fear they would explode (I've seen some gnarly photos on the Instant Pot Facebook Community). When I searched online for "How to cook eggs in an Instant Pot," I was met with disaster photos and inconsistent instructions from various bloggers. I searched for "eggs" on the Instant Pot website and saw an old video (with an old Instant Pot) that gave some strange instructions, too. My boyfriend said, "Well, why don't you just try the egg setting and see what happens?" Duh! While it's almost that easy to "hard-boil" perfect eggs, there are a few tips and tricks I tried that I wanted to share with you so your eggs turn out well, too. So here's the method I used, step by step.
These Plants From Amazon Could Help You Sleep Better - So What Are You Waiting For?
Many of us are always on the lookout for ways to get better sleep, from ambient noise to cozy pajamas, high-quality linens, the perfect sleep mask, and everything in between. But did you know that the key to a good night's sleep might be as simple as better indoor air quality and soothing scents? Having cleaner air in our homes, especially in our bedrooms, means higher levels of oxygen and could help you get the rest of you've been searching for. When it comes to purifying the air in your home, plants are a great natural option that look beautiful and carry soothing aromas. And since they're available on Amazon, you won't have to spend hours searching!
Related: 22 Plants From Amazon That Will Clean the Air in Your Home
The 99 Best Gifts For Men in 2018
Gifting your dad, brother, coworker, grandpa, or SO - and the list goes on - can be overwhelming . . . especially when they never ask for anything. This year, you don't have to struggle with what, exactly, to get them because we curated a list of 99 cool items every guy would love. Whether he's in need of a good shave, loves video games, or would enjoy a heated toilet seat (because who wouldn't?), we found it all. Keep scrolling to shop our top choices.
Give Your Friends Some Much-Needed Holiday Pampering With This DIY Spa Trio
Moisturize and replenish your skin with this peppermint-scented spa kit! The trio includes a sugar scrub to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, a whipped body cream to soften dry skin, and a foot soak to relieve sore/tired feet. The products are derived from natural ingredients, making them suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. Package the kits up in cute half-pint jars and you have the perfect little DIY gift for anyone who would love a little pampering during the stressful holiday season.
Get the instructions ahead!
38 Cool Gifts From Amazon So Affordable, They Cost Less Than a Tank of Gas
Stop endlessly searching the web for gifts and let us do the work for you. It can be tough to find thoughtful yet affordable presents, so we put together a guide of the very best options from Amazon for under $50. Add some of these genius products to your cart and get that shopping done now.
20 Handmade Gifts So Thoughtful, No One Will Ever Guess They're From Amazon
Looking for a personalized and thoughtful gift to impress someone this year? You're in luck because shopping for handmade gifts is easier than ever. Amazon features a shopping section on the site filled with handmade and customizable items. From phone cases to necklaces and wine glasses, there's no doubt you'll spot something for your loved ones, and maybe even yourself. Take a look.
These 17 Gifts Are So Funny, You'll Need a Minute to Recover
As fun as it is to shop for thoughtful gifts, there's something so satisfying about a gift that makes everyone laugh. Whether you're heading to a funny White Elephant exchange or just looking for a way to bring more smiles on Christmas morning, these are the best gag gifts we found on Amazon. The best part? Every single one of these gifts is under $40, so get shopping!
Related: Pizza Socks in a Pizza Box Exist, and I'm Both Hysterical and Hungry
If You Need a Holiday Hostess Gift, Look No Further
Here's the thing; a cookbook is just about the ideal holiday gift, and here's why. It's a perfect hostess gift because it's thoughtful and isn't the classic food or alcohol, plus it can arrive in two days thanks to Amazon Prime. Alternatively, if you're gifting someone who genuinely loves to cook, they'll be excited to try out some new recipes, maybe from some of their favorite chefs or celebrities.
Urban Outfitters Is Selling the Cutest Cable Bites, and I Just Bought All 19 of Them
As if we weren't already completely obsessed with Urban Outfitters, the brand just gave us another reason to love it. The animal cable bites it's selling are so cute, we want to adopt them all.
Trendy tech accessories are always fun gifts, and these $6 trinkets are too affordable and adorable not to buy for stocking stuffers, white elephant gifts, and maybe as a personal treat. Not to mention, they serve a totally functional purpose: preventing cable breakage. Amazing, right? See all the animals you can choose from ahead!
If you need us, we will be at the nearest Urban.
These DIY Headache Relief Aromatherapy Shower Tablets Make the PERFECT Holiday Gift
Find a little time to unwind with the soothing scent of these aromatherapy shower tablets. Designed to relieve tension and provide headache relief, the tablets will release the natural scents of lavender and peppermint oils to instantly remind you of a relaxing day at the spa. Place one or two tablets on the floor of your shower/tub, and let the water from your shower head do all the work. The tablets are super easy to make, and would make a great DIY holiday gift to share with friends and loved ones.
Here's what you'll need:
- 2 cups baking soda
- 1/2 cup water
- Peppermint essential oil
- Lavender essential oil
- Silicone cupcake molds
- Baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cup
- Spoon for mixing
Get the step-by-step instructions ahead.
Related: Give Your Friends Some Much-Needed Holiday Pampering With This DIY Spa Trio
This Video of Chrissy Teigen's Kids Will Make You Instantly Smile, No Questions Asked
If you have an internet connection, then you're probably well aware that Chrissy Teigen and John Legend's children - 2-year-old Luna and 6-month-old Miles - are some of the sweetest celebrity kids around. In a recent Instagram video, the supermodel and host of Lip Sync Battle took the cuteness level up about a million notches by giving fans a look at Luna attempting to bottle-feed her baby brother. And holy moly, it's one of sweetest sibling moments we've seen in a while. Although Miles seems to be struggling with feeding himself, his big sister is right by his side to offer words of encouragement, coaching him to "use two hands, Miles," and I think my heart just melted.
What We're Buying Our Girls This Holiday
I love shopping for my girls. It's something I do year-round, but I do try to save lots of ideas for the holidays. We celebrate Hanukkah, so needing eight nights of gifts can get challenging. Luckily, we can get creative and give combined gifts, offer smaller, stocking stuffer-sized options, and include plenty of great books - you can never have too many! Here are some easy, guaranteed wins for my girls that I know will bring big smiles, belly laughs, and hours of fun for all three.
37 of the Best Gifts For 11-Year-Olds, Whether They’re in Kid, Tween, or Teen Mode
Eleven is a tricky age to buy gifts for - kids of this age span from still being big kids to just getting comfortable in the tween years, or are already advancing straight into teen interests and hobbies. Whether your 11-year-old is big into Harry Potter, is a sports fanatic, loves DIY and craft activities, can't stop playing Fortnite, or simply loves a good place to curl up and read their favorite book, there are so many possible gifts to give that will all convince your child you actually know what's cool.
See some of our favorite gifts for 11-year-olds ahead (and don't miss these awesome gifts for teens).
Disney-Lovers, Listen Up! These 15 PJs on Amazon Are Perfect Gifts For the Whole Family
The only thing better than holiday pajamas? Disney holiday pajamas. These 15 picks make the holidays all the more merry and bright; it's hard not to smile while wearing a Mickey Mouse set or a Disney Princess nightgown. If you've got a child who always wants to be in a costume, these are the easiest way to get them to change into pajamas. Plus, there are plenty of options for grown-up Disney fans, because why should the kids have all the fun. The best part? All these PJs are on Amazon, which means two-day shipping for Prime members. Happy shopping!
31 Cats Sitting on Santa's Lap That May or May Not Be Poised to Attack
If you're a cat owner, you know that most cats only like to be snuggled on their own terms, and even then, there's a very delicate balance between "I'm going to lie here forever" and "Peace out, homie!" That simple fact is what makes these photos of cats sitting on Santa's lap 100 million times funnier, because as cute as these felines all are (SO. DAMN. CUTE.), you just know that they've all got to be mentally poised to attack at any given moment.
Please, stop whatever you're doing and LOL with me over these hilarious cat photos. (And godspeed, Santa.)
Stocking Stuffers That’ll Keep 4-Year-Olds Busy All Christmas Morning
A 4-year-old on Christmas morning could either play it totally cool and unwrap their gifts excitedly, playing with each one for a bit, or could rip through everything, not really paying attention and then losing interest right after (it happens). Of course they'll play with everything eventually, but instead of being intricate with your toy gifting or everything needing to be put together, we're going full-on stocking stuffer mode for our toddlers - aka small gifts that will keep them busy all morning long, with little-to-no assembly required. That way we can sip some coffee and maybe open a few gifts of our own.
Ahead, check out the 17 coolest stocking stuffer gifts for 4-year-olds (and if you're on a budget, here are a few of the cheap gifts we're getting our 4-year-olds this year).
35 Gifts For Him That Are So Good, You'll Want to Keep Them
Now is the time to get going on your holiday to-do list - you definitely don't want to put it off until the last minute. So if there's a guy in your life who you're shopping for, we're here to make it easy. Whether you're shopping for a present for a new dad or your partner, here are 35 great ideas.
21 Things That Inevitably Happen When You Travel With Kids During the Holidays
My family usually hits the road for the holidays, heading to the beach with my extended family for a vacation that only in the last year (when my son was almost 4 and my daughter was almost 7) began to feel like one. Before that, it was a stressful trip that took so much time and energy to execute that if it wasn't for that alluring Florida sunshine, I might not have gone.
Between buying and wrapping gifts early so I could ship them to our destination in time for Santa's arrival to renting baby supplies we couldn't fit in our suitcases to throwing our rules about screen time and sugar consumption out the window, traveling with kids for the holidays is a jolly sh*tshow. But hey, the holidays are all about togetherness, right? And nothing brings more togetherness than being stuck in a tiny condo for a week (or even better, a car for an eight-hour-plus drive) with your toddlers. If you're planning a trip with your kids over the holidays - to Grandma's house or somewhere more exotic - here are 21 things you need to prepare yourself for.
I Wrote a Book About a Child Getting Kidnapped . . . Then Had My Own Kidnapping Scare
Kidnapping. It's every parent's worst nightmare. Whether you're a brand-new parent or a consummate pro at keeping little ones safe, we all share this universal fear.
When I was writing a novel about kidnapping, I conjured up worst-case scenarios in my head. I spent many hours in a daze creating a story about a 5-year-old who goes missing from her own backyard. When I was done for the day, I would check on my then-5-year-old in our backyard, where I was met with the familiar and comforting sight of her. My daughter hadn't vanished . . . yet.
When I decided to write Not Her Daughter, I wanted to turn kidnapping on its head. Is it ever justified? Could you take a child to possibly save them? As I created these characters and moral dilemmas, I disappeared into the bubble so many authors experience: complete obsessive immersion.
In today's oversaturated world, kidnappings aren't the "news" they once were. AMBER Alerts are forgotten with the swipe of a finger, there are no more children on the backs of milk cartons, and entire communities rarely come together to search for one missing child. As I researched the statistics of missing children in the United States - 800,000 per year - I began to thank God that I only have one child to keep up with. One child to keep safe.
When I finally shook myself free from my research and novel, I felt my nerves untangle. I'd written a book about kidnapping and nobody went missing! My child was still safe! She didn't disappear! That is until one fateful morning when my husband took my daughter to school.
Absent. My heart began to pound so violently, I feared imminent death from a heart attack. How could my daughter be absent? My husband dropped her off that very morning at 7:55 a.m.
My daughter's school holds 400 children. You're not allowed to walk your child to their classroom but rather drop them off at the door and let them go. Never mind the exits at the end of each hall and how easy it would be for someone to intercept them and say, "Hey, come with me, sweetheart." We've spoken extensively to our child about stranger danger and what she should do; however, my daughter's consistent response - "Kick them in the penis!" - would certainly work as well. It's a fine balance between scaring your child and not scaring them too much.
When I think back to that day, I couldn't tell you what uniform she was wearing or how her tangled hair was styled. I remember being in a hurry and practically rushing her out the door so I could drink my damn coffee in peace and start my day. How many days had I rushed her out the door? How many days had I given her a quick kiss and a hug instead of really drinking her in?
That day, I took a noon hot yoga class on the other side of town. When I emerged after 1 p.m., sweaty and relaxed, I saw that I had a missed call from a local number. When I listened to the voicemail, my heart suddenly sank into my stomach. An automated message from my daughter's school began to play. It told me in what seemed like slow motion that my 5-year-old was absent that day.
I sat in the car, phone clutched in my sweaty palms, and replayed the message. Absent. I had that singular thought that parents who've lost children must think: this is really happening. My heart began to pound so violently, I feared imminent death from a heart attack. How could my daughter be absent? My husband dropped her off that very morning at 7:55 a.m. I checked the clock. It was now close to 1:15 p.m. They'd waited this long to let me know?
I calculated how long a kidnapper would have to get away with my daughter. How far they'd be, how virtually impossible it would be find her. I once read a statistic that if you don't recover the child in the first five hours, they're not coming back again. It had already been five hours. Would I really never see my daughter again?
I frantically called the number back but couldn't get a human on the phone. I dialed my husband's cell over and over until he answered in a muffled tone to let me know he was in a meeting. When he answered, I screamed that our daughter was absent from school. She wasn't there! She was missing! I told him to meet me at the school before hanging up and frantically calling my daughter's school while speeding like a bat out of hell to get across town.
Horrid thoughts consumed me. She's gone. You'll never see her again. Did you tell her you loved her this morning? Why did you throw her gingerbread man out the window when she was throwing a tantrum? What is she wearing? Did you bring this on yourself by writing about a kidnapping? God, I love her. I love her more than anything in the whole world and I'll never lose my temper again if you just bring her back to me.
In Not Her Daughter, 5-year-old Emma Grace Townsend is kidnapped by successful entrepreneur Sarah Walker. Sarah is kind (but a bit batsh*t crazy to take someone else's child). Emma's real mother, Amy, is gruff, mean, and physically and verbally abusive. She's tired. She's not really present with her child. As I squeezed the steering wheel and waited for someone to pick up, I wondered which mother I was more like: Amy or Sarah?
I thought about every bad thing I'd ever said to my daughter; how sometimes this sweet little angel of mine pushes me to the brink of insanity. How our children see the ugliest parts of us but also the most beautiful. Which one was I this morning? Which one would she remember?
Someone at her school finally answered, and I frantically relayed that I'd just received a call that our daughter wasn't at school. The woman had the audacity to put me on hold. Those moments were the most excruciating of my entire life. She's there. She's not there. She's missing. She's fine. Finally, the woman came back on and said, "I'm so sorry . . . " and I remember almost blacking out before she completed the rest of her sentence. "She's in class. I'm looking right at her," she said. I couldn't believe it. "Are you sure it's her?" I answered. "Let me talk to her!" "It's her. I'm sure."
I thought about every bad thing I'd ever said to my daughter; how sometimes this sweet little angel of mine pushes me to the brink of insanity. How our children see the ugliest parts of us, but also the most beautiful. Which one was I this morning? Which one would she remember?
I would not believe my daughter was really there until my husband and I laid eyes on her. Until we crushed her sweet little body against our chests and looked into her gorgeous eyes. We both pulled up to the school and raced inside to get proof - and to get to the bottom of this ridiculous error. Apparently, when our child had crouched down to put away her lunchbox and backpack that morning, her teacher had somehow marked her absent and never corrected it.
To say we were relieved was an understatement. It was all a misunderstanding. The promises I made to never lose my temper again immediately vanished as real life set in. But then, months later, we lost her at Target. One moment she was there, calling to us every five seconds from the toy aisle as my husband and I looked at pillows in the adjacent aisle. The next moment, she was literally gone, and my husband and I were running and screaming through the store to find her.
It's really happening this time, I remember thinking. You were so busy looking at overpriced pillows, and now your daughter is gone.
A security guard attempted to calm me down. They locked the front doors. Customers fanned out and looked for her. This time I remembered what she was wearing. This time I remembered her hair.
The security guard reviewed the tapes, but I was too afraid to ask what they were looking for. Ten agonizing minutes of searching for our girl, and we still couldn't find her. Finally, a lady said, "Is this her?" and pointed to my daughter at the entrance to the store. I dropped to my knees and squeezed her so hard I could feel her sturdy bones beneath her skin. "I couldn't find you," she insisted.
I held her little body and told her she could never do that again. That she knew where we were. That she was supposed to stay in the toy aisle! She started crying, and I realize now it was our mistake, not hers. Kids wander. That's what they do. There's no pillow on earth worth taking your eyes off your children for - even for a second. Because a second is all it takes.
After two scary events, I don't rush her out the door anymore. I memorize her ever-changing face, her smile, her goofy permanent teeth that are twice the size of her baby teeth. I drink her in.
While those treacherous moments when I thought she was gone can't be undone, I'm learning to savor the moment. To put down the phone. To pay attention to my daughter, to love my daughter, to remember my daughter before she's grown and the fears and joys of childhood are nothing but a memory.
Rea Frey is an author and journalist who has appeared on Talk of the Town, Today in Nashville, WGN, and Fox. Her debut novel, Not Her Daughter, was released by St. Martins Press in August 2018 and has been optioned for film. When not reading, writing, or eating, you can find Rea with her family, traveling, or doing handstands. To learn more, visit reafrey.com.
I'm Really Strict About My Kids' Screen Time . . . Except During the Holidays
I've been known to be a little controlling about my kids' screen time. We don't own tablets (not even my husband and I), we don't have cable, and my kids don't own any gaming devices. I'm old school regarding technology and very proud of it. But during the holidays, I throw all of those rules out the window. A huge part of the holiday season is relaxing and spending time together as a family, which sometimes means lounging around the TV for long stretches of time. So, if that means my kids get an unlimited amount of screen time during the holiday months, so be it. I don't beat myself up over it.
One of my favorite things during the holidays as a child was sitting in the family room with my parents and three rowdy brothers. We'd watch tons of Christmas movies, eat holiday cookies, and just be together. Those memories are so special, which is why I forget about my strict rules for a little bit to do the same with my own kids. No, I don't let them watch TV all day and not interact with anyone, but I let their bodies and minds relax. And since we're stuck inside a lot of the time due to cold weather, screen time gives me a break, too. I don't feel the need to think of indoor activities or make sure they're stimulated and learning 24/7. Christmas movies marathons are just fine.
Last year, we loved watching Elf, A Christmas Story, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and more together. We hunkered down in our pajamas, passed around the popcorn and cookies, and watched the classic Christmas tales unfold in front of us. My kids couldn't contain their laughter when Will Ferrell inhaled spaghetti mixed with syrup and candy, which made my husband and me burst out laughing, too. So while my kids were engulfed in a screen, we were also making precious family memories. And it's so worth it every year.
And if we head to one of our relatives' houses for the holiday, I let my kids watch movies there, too. Nobody sits hovered over their own screens. We make sure that individual devices are put away, and we all enjoy something together. It's fun watching a movie with the family when the ages range between 4 and 83. When a grandfather and his granddaughter can laugh hysterically at the same Christmas joke, then the TV can be on all day long for all I care. These years with my kids and my parents are precious, and if movies are the thing that helps them create priceless memories, I'm all for it.
Sometimes I forget that movies and television help create some of the best family moments and memories, both during the holidays and after. It's the togetherness of the screen time that truly matters. Well, that and the 6-foot elf in green tights running around New York City.
Yes, I Hide a Pickle in My Christmas Tree, and Once You Know Why, I Bet You Will Too
Most of my favorite holiday traditions revolve around Christmas ornaments - we always scout them on family vacations so we have reminders of all the places we've visited, each of my kids gets a special annual ornament to hang that will one day be among the starter ornaments for their own trees, and we make ornaments as gifts for grandparents every year. But there's one tradition I've been doing for years that still garners confused, sometimes disgusted looks from those unaware of its origins.
It's the "I have a pickle hidden in my Christmas tree" tradition. Never heard of it, either?
There's one tradition I've been doing for years that still garners confused, sometimes disgusted looks from those unaware of its origins.
Well, there's a pretty sweet meaning behind this dill-lightful tradition. According to most pickle ornament sellers, it's an Old World custom known as weihnachtsgurke (translated to "Christmas pickle") in which on Christmas Eve, parents secretly place the very last ornament on the tree: the glass pickle. With its green color and unique texture, it's easily disguised among the branches. The next morning, the first child to spot the elusive pickle earns a special reward, whether it's getting to unwrap the first gift or getting an extra gift entirely. Some even believe that the pickle is such a fortuitous sighting that it will bring the person who locates it good luck in the year ahead.
As for the origin of this legend, some of these pickles come boxed with descriptions that trace its beginnings to Germany, but seeing that most modern Germans don't even know about the tradition, it's probably just a marketing gimmick based upon the fact that most are made there. In fact, since the 1840s, many German glassblowers have created ornaments shaped like fruits and nuts before exporting them. Most likely, F.W. Woolworth, the owner of a chain of US five-and-dime stores in the late 1800s, bought up this inventory and then concocted the custom when he had a hard time selling the glass pickle ornaments in particular.
Regardless of its true start, the strange act of hiding a pickle in a tree has become a beloved tradition in my home - one that's easy for me to employ and silly enough to pique my kids' interest for a little while.
My tree has two pickles: one, a full-size dill that we leave for my two preschool-age kids to search endlessly for, and one that's a miniature gherkin, roughly two inches long, that is reserved for adult friends to find at a holiday party in exchange for a nice bottle of wine. One year, no one found it, and it wasn't until early January - after we took down all the ornaments and left the barren tree up an extra week, hoping the little green guy would reveal itself - when I spotted it tucked away between low-lying branches. (I've since begun writing myself a reminder of where I stash them each year.)
This Movie May Be Considered a Christmas Classic, but I Refuse to Let My Kids Watch It
I'm all for letting my children watch classic Christmas movies. Elf, A Christmas Story, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas? Absolutely. But there is one beloved but still horrifically scary movie that I have no shame in hiding from my kids at all costs: Gremlins.
As a 37-year-old mother of two, I'm still scarred from watching that movie as a child. My three older brothers sat me down before Christmas one year, and we all watched it together. They roared with laughter while the tiny (and possessed) Gremlins took over the entire city. Me? I sat petrified, hiding behind a blanket I desperately clutched to my chin. And of course, my brothers thought that was even more hilarious - their cute little sister scared of a cuddly Gremlin.
If it horrified me - a pretty easygoing child - I know it will scare the hell out of them.
That Christmas (after many evenings full of nightmares), I woke up excited to sneak downstairs to see what Santa had brought me. And what did my mother place into my red stocking? A gremlin! Those beady little eyes were the first thing I noticed when I walked downstairs on Christmas morning. My brothers loved torturing me with that stuffed animal for months after that.
Because of all this, I will not expose my children to that movie. We all remember the plot, right? Billy receives Gizmo, a mogwai, for a Christmas present from his father. Only he allows his buddy to get Gizmo wet, which creates many evil spawns to take over the city. From there, havoc unleashes and kills the Christmas joy out of everyone. You couldn't pay me to share that with my children. My kids are sensitive, and sometimes the most harmless of movies can give them nightmares. So if Gremlins horrified me - a pretty easygoing child - I know it will scare the hell out of them.
Some may argue that I'm depriving my kids of some innocent and nostalgic Christmas joy by not letting them watch this classic movie. "It's just a movie! And it's rated PG! They'll be fine," you might say. But I beg to differ. If I can control one thing this Christmas, it will be that Gremlins do not show up in the dreams of my sleeping children. Because since they still pop up in mine sometimes, I know there is nothing more petrifying than that.
22 Advent Calendars For the Whole Family - Some Even Have Wine!
When it comes to getting the most bang for your buck during the holiday season, it's hard to beat the practicality of an Advent calendar. It's a single item that you buy once yet get to open for anywhere from 12 to 24 days. Plus, you can set it out as decor, making all of December fun, as opposed to just specific days of the month. Whether you want to fill one yourself for the little ones or are hoping to unwrap decadent sweets - or even wine - for yourself, here are the top 22 options for the year. Star Wars included, of course.
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.
23 Fortnite Gifts For Your Tween or Teen Who Can't Stop Flossing
If you have a kid who's either screaming at their friends via gaming console headset or flossing in the middle of the kitchen asking when dinner will be ready so they can get back to their game, welcome to the fold, mamas. With so many tweens and teens living, what is according to them, their best lives playing the popular video game in every spare moment they have between school, homework, and other necessary human activities like sleeping, it's likely that the holiday season will be full of Fotnite gifts-a-plenty.
If you have finally adopted the "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em" mentality, get a head start on your holiday shopping, and check out the Fortnite gifts for your tweens and teens - receiving them will only just be less exciting than being told they can quit school and become a professional video game player, probably.
I'm a Stay-at-Home Mom Who Has a Cleaning Lady - Here's Why
I'm a stay-at-home mom, and I have a cleaning lady. I say this with extreme gratitude and no shame whatsoever. The truth is, paying for someone else to clean my house every two weeks is the best money I spend. Sure, I could do all the tasks I pay my cleaning lady to do, but delegating keeping our bathrooms tidy and our floors crumb-free has taken away so much of my stress that I can't imagine going back to the way it was before I hired her.
I started using a cleaning lady when I was pregnant with my fourth child. Until that point, I always did all the mopping, dusting, vacuuming, and polishing in our house. When I became too big to comfortably scrub the tubs or drag our vacuum up and down the stairs, I decided to hire out. At first, I felt a little weird about it, since I don't work full-time and I had time to clean while the kids were at school, no matter how disagreeable it was to my ever-growing belly. But when a professional stepped in, my life changed forever. Gone was the anxiety I felt when I knew I had to finish cleaning the house before preschool pickup or in between a doctor's appointment and swim practice. No longer was I almost literally breaking my aching back to disinfect toilets. When the cleaning lady left, I took a step back to admire her work and vowed to remain her customer for as long as she'd have me.
Now that my son is here, I find having a cleaning lady even more invaluable. I already do a ton of household tasks one-handed, from folding laundry to emptying the dishwasher. It's a huge relief when she arrives to take on some of the burden of managing a household with six people living in it. Honestly, other than my husband, she's the only person who helps me on a regular basis. We don't live close to family, and I'm not yet comfortable leaving my baby with a sitter. After a long day of breastfeeding an infant, keeping up with laundry, running three other kids to every activity under the sun, meal prepping, and homework coaching, I'm most in love with being able to rely on someone to take care of my needs for a change. And in this case, those needs include getting old chunks of toothpaste off our sinks and wiping down dusty picture frames.
I'm sure some working parents would say that a stay-at-home mom having a cleaning lady is an indulgence, not a need, since I am home. And I bow down to worship parents who work full-time and still find the time to keep up with housework. I honestly don't know how you do it. I know how lucky I am to be able to afford help, and it really is a lifesaver. I'm far less stressed and therefore a better wife and mother because I recognize I need help in this area. Call it the ultimate act of self-care!
Here's How Much You Should Tip Your Nanny For the Holidays
The holidays are that happy time of year when you inevitably get stressed about what perfect gift to get your kids, partner, in-laws, friends, neighbors, kids' teachers, and, yes, nanny. Luckily for you, there's a pretty easy answer as to what to give the latter: cash.
Like hairdressers and housekeepers, nannies often depend on bonuses. Still, it's not always easy to figure out exactly how much to give during the holiday season. But here's a good rule of thumb from the Emily Post Institute: full-time domestic help, such as a cook, nanny, or personal caregiver, should receive between a week's and a month's pay, plus a gift. Meanwhile, childcare finder Care.com says one week's salary is the norm but acknowledges that some families give more or less.
Of course, this depends on a number of factors, including your financial situation, the number of children you have, the demands of your nanny's job, and how long they've worked for you. If any of these numbers are higher than average, then it's wise to consider giving more than just one week of extra pay. You also might be extra generous if you're trying to keep them around for a while!
Aside from a cash bonus, a thoughtful gift - think a gift certificate to their favorite store or restaurant - from the children can go a long way. Personal, handmade items, such as drawings or baked goods, are another good option. Finally, any gift or tip should always be accompanied by a short, handwritten note of appreciation - after all, they do put up with a lot from your kiddos all year.
Make Your List, but No Need to Check It Twice - These 129 Gifts For Kids Are All Winners
Wrapping up the perfect gifts for your kids to open over the holidays can be tough - even if they're the type to write up a list of what they want, it'll either be quite extensive, super vague, or so specific, you feel like there would be no surprises. If you're looking to craft an amazing list of gifts for your kids, look no further than these hot toys, trendy fashion picks, and other fun ideas for kids of all ages.
Tyra Banks's Son Thinks Christmas Is Every Day, and Hmm, Maybe He's Onto Something!
Supermodel and Life-Size 2 actress, Tyra Banks, recently swung by Live With Kelly and Ryan to chat about her upcoming projects and some parenting conundrums she's faced with her nearly 3-year-old son, York. The latest? Apparently, he thinks every day is Christmas.
The mom told Kelly and Ryan that "he is so excited [for Christmas], but he's confused," and honestly, the reason why is pretty valid. Tyra explained that because some people decorate for the holidays well before Thanksgiving, York isn't exactly sure when Christmas Day is. "He thinks that every time he sees a tree, a tree farm, lights, [or] a Santa that that is Christmas Day . . . He's just thinking that this is what the world is. He's like, 'Mommy, it's Christmas today! It's Christmas! Where's Santa Claus? Where [are] my gifts?' He expects Santa every day."
And we have to agree, the timeline of the holiday season is probably super confusing for little ones. Fingers crossed Santa leaves York some good presents this year on actual Christmas Day!
I'll Never Make My Family Pose For Holiday Portraits - Here's Why
I'm all for beloved holiday traditions, but one thing I've never been into? Holiday family portraits. While they've always been around, they seem to have gained even more popularity in recent years, especially with social media. Whenever I scroll through my Instagram or Facebook feeds once the weather gets cold, I begin to see the professional snapshots, one more elaborate than the last. Everyone is dressed alike (sometimes in matching pajamas), siblings wear ugly holiday sweaters, and every single person flashes a picturesque smile. If you're one of those moms who can rally the family to do this, I truly applaud you, but I can't and won't.
To me, staged and professional family photos - especially around the holidays - aren't very memorable. I prefer candid, messy, and even blurry photos from our time together during the festive months. In professional portraits, everyone looks their best, is perfectly posing against a nice backdrop, and is told to smile and say cheese. I know that if that was my family, I wouldn't stumble upon those a few years later and think, "That was such a magical day." But the few photos I manage to capture of my kids making snow angels before I almost drop my phone in the snow? I'll cherish those forever.
Snapping pictures throughout the holidays is an important pastime in my family. Not only can I look back at old ones from my own childhood, but I love creating new ones with my kids, too. Someone is always snapping away in our house, and after a hectic day of being with family, I love looking at all the captured memories. It's an amazing reminder that there are magical moments happening all around me, even if I can't see them at the time. It also reminds me what's really important: family and being together. All of the energy I put into planning, organizing, and hosting is so worth it, and these photographs are proof.
Not doing holiday family portraits also takes the pressure off me. It's one less thing I have to organize, and I don't have to worry about painting a perfect family image that isn't realistic. We're loud, disheveled, and it's extremely hard to get my kids to smile at the same time, but that's exactly how I like it. But if other families cherish the memories they make while taking family portraits, then that's exactly what they should do. There's no right holiday family traditions, and any photo is worth keeping in my opinion.
So, while I can appreciate the moms who take the time to match their families in those adorable holiday outfits, I'm definitely more of an outtakes kind of mom. I hope my children feel that way when they get older and dig out our holiday albums. I want them to flip through the photos and be instantly taken back to those feelings of home, family, and yes, burnt turkey.
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.
UGG Boots Are Available on Amazon, and I Just Finished All My Holiday Shopping
Is there any greater feeling than coming home after a long day and slipping into your UGGs? We think not. We've been obsessed with these comfy, cozy boots forever, and they're a great present for anyone on your holiday shopping list. Whether you're looking for a cozy treat for your toddler or a cute slipper for your SO, try a pair of UGGs. And the best part? They're all available on Amazon, so these cute styles can be yours in just two days!
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
The Reason This Groom Blindfolded All His Wedding Guests Will Make Your Heart Melt
When Robbie Campbell set out to marry Stephanie Agnew in Australia, he was determined to make the day as perfect as possible. To do that, he blindfolded all 54 of his wedding guests so they could experience their wedding the exact same way as his bride, Stephanie, who went blind shortly before meeting Robbie. James Day, a local photographer, captured the most precious moments of the day, and the photos are the definition of stunning.
According to James's Facebook post, Robbie made an announcement to the guests right away, saying: "When we lose one of our senses, the others become heightened. This allows us to experience something as beautiful as these vows in a totally unique way. Today, we get to experience them from Steph's perspective."
"When we lose one of our senses, the others become heightened. This allows us to experience something as beautiful as these vows in a totally unique way."
Although the request was certainly out of the ordinary for attendees, it meant a lot to Robbie as well as Stephanie's mom, who, like her daughter, went blind from cone-rod dystrophy.
"I couldn't control my emotions as she walked down the aisle," Robbie told The Daily Mail. "She looked like a true princess bride in the dress. The blindfolds were received well by the guests as they were experiencing that moment in the same way Steph and her mum, who is also blind, were experiencing it."
For Stephanie, who's never seen her husband, the moment was one she'll never forget.
"I've never seen him. I know his build," Stephanie said. "He is 6 foot 4 inches and I am 5 foot 4 inches, so he is a lot taller than me. And I know he has broad shoulders, but other than that I have to rely on descriptions. Everyone has hurdles so it's important to dig deep within yourself and understand that life can be hard but there are always ways to deal with things."
Scroll through to get a look at the photos from this unforgettable day, and try not to tear up in the process.
Just Days After Having His First Kid, This New Dad Has 10 Major Takeaways All Parents Must Read
If you've had a kid or know someone who's had one, there's one thing you can likely attest to: the last thing you're capable of doing just days after having your newborn is writing something informative or reflective, let alone helpful. But new dad Joey Parsons is in a camp of his own.
Just 10 days after he and his wife had their first boy, the new dad published a post on Medium for other newbie parents who might be following in his footsteps. And it isn't rife with run-of-the-mill "sleep when the baby sleeps" advice that everyone from grandparents to childcare providers will regurgitate back at you; these are thoughtful and specific learnings. Check out the post for the full 10, but here are our favorites.
Amazon Released Its Top 20 Children's Books of 2018, So Here Are Our Kids' Stocking Stuffers
As a huge reader who was an even bigger reader as a kid, lists of the year's new books, especially the best ones, make me giddy. Which is why I'm thrilled looking over Amazon's list of the top books of 2018, especially the picks for children's books. Even if your kid isn't a major book-lover and has plenty of trendy toys on their wish list this year, books make for amazing stocking stuffers, and these all sound too good to pass up.
Check out the 20 top children's books of 2018 that we can't wait to give our kids as gifts. (Because is there anything cuter than a mini reader? We think not.)
These Ideas Will Bring the Magic of Movies Into Your Wedding
Do you remember that feeling of joy when Noah from The Notebook said, "If you're a bird, then I'm a bird"? Or that Old Hollywood charm of Rick Blaine from Casablanca in his sharp suits? Well, there's a way to incorporate that cinematic appreciation into your wedding. With some help from Be Inspired, we compiled the best tips and tricks from people in the wedding industry on how to add some movie magic into wedding ceremonies. Browse through this gallery to get some inspiration!
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