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.
lundi 17 décembre 2018
Outlander: The Tragic Connection Between Frank and Laoghaire You Might Not Have Picked Up On
Warning: Spoilers for Outlander season four below!
The latest Outlander episode, titled "Down the Rabbit Hole," sees the return of a couple of familiar faces in Tobias Menzies's Frank and Nell Hudson's Laoghaire, which may have come as a bit of a surprise - even to book readers, in Frank's case. But executive producer Maril Davis tells POPSUGAR that doing a Frank episode was on their minds from very early on in plotting out season four, even though he doesn't really appear in Diana Gabaldon's Drums of Autumn.
In the episode, the main thrust of the action is that Brianna (Sophie Skelton) travels through the stones to 1760s Scotland. But this is juxtaposed with flashbacks to her final months with her father, Frank (Menzies), which the writers' room thought was an important thing to include in Brianna's journey.
"We decided fairly early on that part of the story would involve Frank because in talking about Brianna's journey and her going back, the fact that she's never met her birth father and was raised by another man for the first 20 years of her life and that's the only father she's ever known . . . how torn she would feel, as a character?" says Davis, adding that Brianna is wrestling with feelings of guilt over her perceived betrayal of the man who raised her.
"'This is my father and the only father I've ever known and now I'm going to go meet my other father, and how will I love them both? And would Frank have approved?' And all the stuff going through her head," Davis explains. "It was such an interesting way to show her journey and her struggle."
The writers also loved the idea of bringing Frank's last days to life, since viewers and book readers don't really know much about the night of the accident that took his life.
"Once he and Claire had that fight and he walked out that door, we don't know what happened to him," says Davis. "We obviously never saw the car crash. But we love the idea of tracing back and finding out that Frank asked Brianna to go to Cambridge with him and that they had a conversation right before he died. For Brianna, that torment of 'if I had only said something different in that car that night, would he still be here?' That guilt she carries with her is so interesting and important."
While the writers had Frank's storyline for this episode planned out far in advance, the same cannot be said for the Laoghaire storyline in Scotland. Davis told us that they originally planned to have Brianna meet her Aunt Jenny, played by Laura Donnelly, like she does in the book. Unfortunately, they couldn't work out the schedule with Donnelly, but as they worked out the alternative storyline featuring Laoghaire, they realized that Laoghaire actually makes a perfect parallel story for Frank.
"What tragic figures Laoghaire and Frank are, to love people that never loved them back and to really be tormented."
"It's interesting, the parallels between Laoghaire's story and Frank's story. The fact that Laoghaire and Frank both loved Jamie and Claire, and Jamie and Claire both left them, then came back into their lives and then left them again - what tragic figures Laoghaire and Frank are, to love people that never loved them back and to really be tormented," says Davis. "You're never going to feel that sorry for Laoghaire and Frank, obviously you're pulling for Jamie and Claire, but [Laoghaire and Frank] been so affected by these two people in their lives and the trajectory of their lives have been completely changed by them."
It makes a lot of sense from a storytelling standpoint, and Davis says they like it when they can surprise even longtime book readers. When POPSUGAR remarks that it'd be fun if they could find a way for Menzies to return every season, Davis laughs and says that they're "thrilled" if they surprised viewers with Frank's return because they were worried news had leaked from the day he filmed. She also agrees that it'd be great if Menzies returned because he's a "lovely man" and "a wonderful actor."
Outlander Just Made a Significant Change to Brianna's Character From the Books - Here's Why
Some Outlander fans were undoubtedly surprised by the events of the most recent episode, titled "Down the Rabbit Hole." Not only are Claire (Caitriona Balfe) and Jamie (Sam Heughan) absent, but there are a couple of surprising faces that pop up over the course of the hour. Plus, Brianna's (Sophie Skelton) time in Scotland on her way to 1760s America is quite different than it is written in the book. Read on to find out why the Outlander writers made these changes, but be warned: spoilers to follow!
Book readers know that originally when Brianna travels to Scotland, she makes her way to Lallybroch and meets not only her Uncle Ian (Steven Cree) but also her Aunt Jenny (Laura Donnelly) and several of her cousins. They welcome her with open arms, the only blemish on the otherwise happy family reunion being when Laoghaire (Nell Hudson) shows up, ranting and raving about how Jamie belongs to her and that Claire stole him away with her witchcraft.
In the show, Brianna is actually taken in by Laoghaire after collapsing in the cold wilderness. It isn't until much later that Laoghaire's "truth" about Claire and Jamie comes out - because neither woman knows who the other one is in the context of Claire and Jamie.
It certainly makes for an interesting story, but we'd be lying if we said we weren't sad that we didn't get to see Brianna meet her Fraser family. As it turns out, that made the Outlander writers sad as well, but it couldn't be helped.
Laura Donnelly as Jenny.
"Originally, when we started the season, we had every intention of taking [Brianna] to Lallybroch and having a Jenny-Brianna story . . . but sadly Laura Donnelly was not available," executive producer Maril Davis explained to POPSUGAR. "We actually really dragged our feet on that one because we had a story all ready and a script ready and we were all excited about it, and she had other commitments and was just not able to come back."
"We just adore her - not just Laura, but the character of Jenny - but she just wasn't able to do it," Davis added. "So at the last minute we had to struggle to find another story to do in this episode because for us, it's really about Jenny and Brianna and that relationship when she was going to Lallybroch."
Now, the writers knew they were going to include Laoghaire in the story "in some way," just like how she appears at Lallybroch in the book. So, as they got to talking about that, they decided focusing on Laoghaire could be a really interesting way to take this episode.
"The more we talked about Laoghaire, the more we thought what an interesting conversation that would be, if Brianna ran into Laoghaire and didn't know who she was," said Davis. "Certainly Claire has shared some of her journey with Brianna and has certainly shared this story, but the likelihood of Brianna necessarily remembering Laoghaire's name out of context, if she met her randomly, isn't something we thought she would do. And we liked the idea of seeing Laoghaire as a normal person. What would she be like if she weren't a crazy person? She's obviously a good mom. And it's interesting to meet Laoghaire without any expectations of what we know of her in the past."
"And it's interesting to meet Laoghaire without any expectations of what we know of her in the past."
Another reason the writers thought Laoghaire's tale would fit in well with this episode is because they had already decided to juxtapose Brianna's time in Scotland with flashbacks to her time with Frank (Tobias Menzies) before he died. As the writers worked out Laoghaire's story, they realized that Frank and Laoghaire actually pair very well together in an episode because they have "parallel" stories when it comes to Claire and Jamie.
It actually makes a lot of sense to take an episode without Claire and Jamie and focus on the people who are basically the anti-Claire and Jamie. And regardless of how you feel about the characters, Menzies and Hudson are talented actors, so it's kind of fun to see them pop up unexpectedly from time to time. Thumbs up, Outlander.
6 Reasons You Should See The Cher Show on Broadway ASAP
How well do you know Cher? No, seriously - how well do you really know her? Well, regardless of whether you're a scholar on the icon or the type of casual fan who just belts "If I Could Turn Back Time" in the shower, Broadway's The Cher Show will make you love her more than ever.
The production, which I recently had the pleasure of checking out in New York's Neil Simon Theatre, is a glitzy, glamorous, endorphin-fueled trip through Cher's spectacular career. While it tends to stick to the lighthearted, surface things rather than digging into the more serious downs the 72-year-old faced on her road to superstardom, it will likely be impossible to wipe the smile off your face for hours after walking out of the theater. And isn't that something worth cheering about?
Below, see why The Cher Show needs to be on your list of musicals to see ASAP.
42 Moments From Elf That Still Fill You With Joy
Struggling with the holiday spirit? We have a solution: The movie Elf is guaranteed to put you directly into a festive mood, every single time. The Will Ferrell-starring holiday flick has everything going for it: it's hilarious, it's sweet, it's totally quotable, and it makes you psyched about Christmas. There are too many good parts of it to name, so we're just going to show them here. Try not to smile too hard, since it's your favorite!
The Confirmed Doctor Strange Sequel Is Almost Like a Spoiler For Avengers: Endgame
After months of wondering whether or not there would be a Doctor Strange sequel, we have pretty solid confirmation that it is, indeed, a thing. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Marvel has finalized a deal with the director, and the search for a screenwriter is underway. Given the fact that the latest Marvel phase will end with the highly anticipated Avengers: Endgame in April 2019, the Doctor Strange sequel would effectively launch us into the fourth phase of the ever-expanding universe. This, of course, carries great weight when you consider the cliffhanger at the end of Avengers: Infinity War. Let's dig into the possible ramifications (and more sequel news!) ahead.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel: The (Likely) Real-Life Inspirations Behind Declan Howell
In The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel's second season, our intrepid heroine Midge Maisel faces down that dilemma that's been haunting creative professionals forever: What is the cost of creativity and art? While some of her conflict stems from her wild, complicated family situation and her tangled love life, she's also questioning how much she's willing to put into her career, even at the expense of other aspects of her life. That inner conflict is put on full display in the seventh episode of the season, where Midge meets Declan Howell (played by The Man in the High Castle's Rufus Sewell), a drunken but brilliant painter.
Declan's role in the story is fairly simple: to represent, both for Midge and for viewers, the dark, lonely, and sometimes brutal side of being an artist. He creates spectacular art, but his pursuits cost him his home life and his family, leaving him alone in a filthy studio with an abusive landlord. While Declan Howell wasn't a real person, unlike some other characters Midge encounters, he serves as an amalgamation of the male painters like him from that era.
The character, placed in the downtown Manhattan art scene of the 1950s, seems likely to be inspired by abstract expressionist artists of the era, like Jackson Pollock - who gets name-dropped in a story Declan tells about a particular painting of his. Pollock was famously reclusive and alcoholic, but regarded as one of the most important artists of his generation. Other artists named in the episode include Franz Kline, whose artistic legacy has always been confused by his refusal to discuss or assign meaning to his art, and Robert Motherwell, who had three marriages end in divorce.
While actor Sewell and creator Amy Sherman-Palladino have not spoken publicly about the inspiration for the character of Declan, it seems likely that these artists mentioned as his contemporaries formed the basis for this small but crucial role.
The Umbrella Academy: Watch the Wickedly Fun Trailer For Netflix's New Superhero Series
If the recent X-Men movies had a better sense of humor about them, perhaps they would've ended up resembling something akin to Netflix's latest stab at the superhero genre: The Umbrella Academy, a TV series adapted from the comics created by My Chemical Romance's Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá.
In the first trailer, we're introduced to a world where, on the same day in October 1989, 43 women around the world wake up and miraculously (and inexplicably) deliver babies, despite having shown no symptoms of pregnancy prior to that. Seven of those children are adopted by eccentric billionaire Sir Reginald Hargreeves, who intends to use their superhuman abilities to save the world by forming the Umbrella Academy. However, the family/team fractures in their teenage years, and they all go their own separate ways. Sorry, universe.
Fortunately, years later, six of the surviving 30-something members of the group - Luther, Diego, Allison, Klaus, Vanya, and Number Five - find themselves back together when Hargreeves dies under mysterious circumstances, and they resolve to work together to figure out what's going on. With the threat of a global apocalypse imminent, the world will rely on them to save the day despite clashing personalities and abilities.
Tallulah's Ellen Page stars as Vanya, alongside Game of Thrones alum Tom Hopper (Luther), Genius's Robert Sheehan (Klaus), and Mary J. Blige as Cha-Cha, a time-traveling assassin. Sold yet? Watch the wickedly fun trailer above, which gives a taste of the stylish series to come as Tiffany's "I Think We're Alone Now" plays in the background.
All 10 episodes of The Umbrella Academy drop on Feb. 15.
All the Beyoncé Wrapping Paper You Could Ever Need to Make Your Gifts Flawless
If you're a dedicated member of the Beyhive, chances are you bought Beyoncé's entire holiday collection last year and have Destiny's Child's 8 Days of Christmas playing on loop leading up to the holidays. Well, get excited, because now you can wrap up all of your presents in paper emblazoned with little lemons and Beyoncé's own face. Several shops are selling wrapping paper, with various cheeky designs, inspired by Queen Bey herself on Etsy. Check them all out ahead.
It's About That Time, Folks! Vote For Your Favorite CW Couple of 2018
If there's one thing we can count on from The CW, it's iconic couples. Whether it's the "Gold Standard" West-Allens of The Flash, the Southside-ruling Bughead of Riverdale, or the badass ThunderGrace of Black Lightning, the couples of The CW never fail to give us everything we want and more. Some of them are living out their happy ever afters, others are getting through major bumps in the road, and the rest are trying to save the world before dinnertime. However their love stories play out, there's no doubt these TV couples made their mark this year. So as the year comes to a close, we want to know which OTP tops your list.
Note: Vote for your favorite couple below by hitting the "up" button. You can vote once per day. The poll will close on Dec. 19 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
6 Ways Mary Poppins Returns Is Just as Magical as the Original
Rebooting a classic film is always tricky: you want it to pay tribute to the original, but it also needs to stand on its own. While many reboots fail to find the right mix of nostalgia and originality, Mary Poppins Returns finds the perfect balance by adding a spoonful of sugar. Of course, one thing that works in the film's favor is that it's actually not a remake but a sequel. Set 20 years later, Mary Poppins (now played by Emily Blunt) returns to a grown-up Michael (Ben Whishaw) and Jane (Emily Mortimer) to teach them a few more valuable lessons. Not only is the film filled with sweet nods to the 1964 film, but it also brings the classic story to life in a whole new way. If you're a huge fan of Mary Poppins, here are just a few reasons you'll fall in love with the new film.
Related: The Mary Poppins Returns Soundtrack Is Sweeter Than a Spoonful of Sugar
Paging Eve Polastri! We've Tracked Down Killing Eve Season 2 Details
Killing Eve is making major waves this award season, picking up two Emmy nominations as well as two recent Golden Globe bids. In fact, it's so good that BBC America renewed it for a second season even before airing the first one. That decision turned out to be a pretty savvy one, as fans have now become obsessed with the cat-and-mouse crime thriller starring Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer. Even without a premiere date attached to it yet, the upcoming season feels so near us that we can almost see Villanelle busting out her bloody assassin moves in her impeccable designer clothes.
The details are relatively scant for the second season, but there's enough to get us excited about what's to come. Like Eve trying to track down an international psychopath, we've played detective and gathered every shred of information on season two of Killing Eve. There are spoilers ahead, so read at your own risk!
This SNL Skit Nails What It Would Be Like If Some of Our Favorite Stars Hosted the Oscars
With all the Oscars controversy that's gone down over the past few weeks, it's still unknown who will end up being the host of next year's show. The names of several celebrities have been thrown around for the gig, but the honor remains a mystery. Naturally, the cast of Saturday Night Live got in on the fun, and compiled "audition tapes" for a few potential hosts during Dec. 15's episode.
The hilarious skit was chock-full of impressions including Kate McKinnon's classic Ellen DeGeneres, Aidy Bryant's spot-on version of Australian comedian Hannah Gatsby, and Matt Damon's re-creation of Matthew McConaughey. Watch the full video above to get an accurate taste of what to expect if your favorite stars hosted the Oscars.
Matt Damon and Leslie Jones Go to War Over Weezer - Yes, Weezer - in Hilarious SNL Sketch
Who knew Weezer was such a divisive band?!
During his hosting gig on Saturday Night Live this weekend, Matt Damon starred in one of the evening's more surprising sketches. No, it wasn't the "dog show for daddies" or even his second stab at playing Brett Kavanaugh; it was the skit simply titled "Weezer." In it, Damon and SNL all-star Leslie Jones go to war over their opinions about the alternative band, with both trying to outdo the other as bigger fans.
"I'm just a little confused because real Weezer fans know they haven't had a good album since Pinkerton in '96," Jones spits at Damon. "Well, that's your opinion, but me, I'm ride or die," Damon shoots back, adding that he thinks "Pork and Beans" is a better track than "Buddy Holly."
Watch the sketch in all its alt-rock glory above, and then check out how the actual members of Weezer reacted to the tribute (of sorts) ahead.
Relive 2018, Which Was Definitely the Year of Jeff Goldblum
I've had a crush on Jeff Goldblum since 1993, when the original Jurassic Park movie blew everyone's minds. Few of my fellow high school classmates shared my affinity for Jeff, who was hardly a teen heartthrob. But in recent years, Jeff Goldblum has experienced a renaissance, and I couldn't be happier. Turns out, there are legions of fans who've been fostering a decades-long crush on Jeff Goldblum, and the actor is embracing it. Jeff's daring fashion sense, unique vocal stylings, hypnotic hand gestures, and silver-fox status have made him a viral Internet phenomenon - particularly in 2018. Here's a look back at the year in Jeff Goldblum.
He'll Be Stoked That Winter Is Coming With These 90 Game of Thrones Gifts
Game of Thrones fans, we know how hard it is to wait for the next season to come out, so to help pass the time, we found some of the best Game of Thrones gifts to give (and hopefully get) this holiday season.
While "most men would rather deny a hard truth than face it," they won't be able to deny how much they love these gifts.
- Additional reporting by Rebecca Carhart, Macy Cate Williams, Becky Kirsch, Danielle Jackson, and Laura Marie Meyers
6 Artists Who Were Tired of Living in 2018, So They Made Nostalgic Videos Instead
This year could certainly be categorized as "rough," which could explain why so many of us were so obsessed with nostalgia in 2018. From switching up our fashion choices to binge-watching '90s reboots, looking back a couple of decades was all the rage - and music videos reflected it, too.
Drake reunited the cast of Degrassi: The Next Generation for his "I'm Upset" video back in May, and Charli XCX and Troye Sivan brought it back to the golden age of my youth for "1999." But most recently, Ariana Grande took us all on a trip down memory lane when she paid homage to classic 2000s teen movies in the fun-filled visuals for "Thank U, Next." Ahead, see which artists turned back time in their videos this year.
The 10 Best Shows of 2018
Although it might have felt like the world was crumbling down around me this year, TV offered a respite from the madness in the form of fantastic storytelling, diverse casts, and, of course, the Bent Neck Lady. (Yes, I'm still having nightmares.) In a way, it felt like TV has never been better, despite the significant hole left by Game of Thrones. For that reason alone, it was incredibly difficult for me to narrow down the best of the best. Fortunately, like a person dead set on ignoring all of life's responsibilities to binge an entire season of peak TV in one weekend, I forged ahead.
Miley Cyrus Calls Liam Hemsworth Her "Hot Date" as They Head to SNL Afterparty
Miley Cyrus had Liam Hemsworth's support during her powerhouse Saturday Night Live musical performances on Dec. 15. After the 26-year-old singer belted out stirring renditions of "Nothing Breaks Like the Heart" and "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)", she and her "hot date" Liam left hand in hand for the SNL afterparty.
The engaged couple have had to lean on each other the past couple of months after losing their Malibu home to the 2018 Woolsey wildfire. During a recent interview with Howard Stern, Miley revealed she now calls Liam her "survival partner" instead of "fiancé." Sounds like these two are going strong! Check out more snaps from their SNL date night ahead.
These Wines Will Never Let You Down - Even If You're on a Budget
No matter if your wine preference is red, white, sparkling, or rosé, there is always one type of wine that is everyone's favorite - one that is flavorful and affordable.
However, it's not always easy to find a blend that checks all of your boxes when it comes to bargain bottles, and we are pretty sure there is absolutely nothing worse than popping a bottle of vino only to find out that the one you brought home with the last few dollars of your paycheck is pretty much the worst.
To save you from that moment, we scoped out some of the best bargain bottles on the market today. We asked experts from the wine industry, including sommeliers and wine store owners, and scanned apps like Vivino for wines that have complexity on the palate and flexibility in the pocketbook (or wallet!).
Check out this list of bottles that are budget-friendly, but sip like they cost a pretty penny.
104 Christmas Gifts on Amazon So Cool, You'll Be Happy to Click Through Them All
It's time to stop procrastinating and start Christmas shopping. Don't freak out if you're behind; Amazon offers tons of clever gift ideas that come in just two days if you have a Prime membership. We sifted through all the site's products and created the ultimate present guide for you. There is truly something for everyone in your life. So click "order" and get these goodies wrapped up!
The Most Foolproof Way to Make Prime Rib Roast in an Instant Pot - Yes, an Instant Pot!
Planning dinner for the holidays shouldn't be stressful. If you're short on time and running around picking up last-minute gifts for loved ones, you're going to want to bookmark this recipe. No table is set without the star dish in the center - a roast! I'm not sure about you, but a perfectly cooked prime rib roast is my favorite thing to have. It's warm and comforting, especially with some roasted potatoes on the side. The best part about this recipe though is it can all be made in an Instant Pot. Instead of taking hours, this garlicky, buttery, herbed roast only takes around an hour to make.
Happy Holidays From This Downright "Dirty Santa" With a Sack Full of the Best Gifts Ever
This year at your Dirty Santa gift exchange, be sure to give the present that everyone is fighting for. From the weird to the totally wacky, these presents will have everyone saying, "I want that!"
Find the best present for your present swap right here, and let the tradition of Dirty Santa gifting continue every holiday season. (And don't worry about Grandma's stocking getting in twist - a "Dirty Santa" gift exchange is similar to a Yankee Swap or White Elephant gift exchange, just with more stealing!)
- Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams, Krista Jones, Sarah Siegel, and Jaime Richards
Psst, Santa - All We Want For Christmas Are These Sweet Treats From Target
Yes, Target has great home decor, amazing beauty products, and some of the best candles, but have you even seen their festive holiday food? If you haven't, please make your way to Target ASAP.
These edible treats double as fun and easy presents, making your holiday shopping that much smoother. With cute packaging and tasty treats for everyone on your list, Target's got you covered. Be sure to save some room in you cart, because we can promise that you will want at least one festive food for yourself.
36 Disney World Hacks That Will Make Your Trip Even More Magical
Want to avoid the long Walt Disney World lines? We can help with that. Some of the park's biggest fans came together on two Quora threads to offer tips and tricks for making your trip to Disney World even more magical - and more economical, too. These hacks will help you navigate the parks, find the best deals, and make the most of the happiest place on the planet.
Related: Disney World Is Infinitely Better Than Disneyland, and Here's Why
There's a Reason Taylor Swift Swears by These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Back in 2014, Taylor Swift basically broke the internet by joining Tumblr and responding to diehard fans' questions. One fan may have asked the most important question - that is: what recipe does Taylor Swift use to bake her famous pumpkin chocolate chip cookies? Every Fall and Winter, the queen shares snaps of these freshly baked cookies and everyone goes crazy, wanting to just have one bite. Her holiday gift to fans for years to come was her answer: she uses this Food Network recipe by George Duran, except instead of milk chocolate chips, she uses semisweet or dark chocolate chocolate bars chopped up into chunks.
Whether or not you love her or her music, these cookies are sure to be a hit. The spicy notes of ginger and cloves paired with the ooey-gooey sweetness of melted chocolate is a match that can't be beat. Make these for your next holiday party, and we can almost guarantee you'll gain a reputation as a great baker among friends and family. Maybe you'll even start belting out, "Shake it off, shake it off!" when holiday family conversations get heated. In all seriousness, try baking these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and you'll understand our obsession. Get the recipe ahead!
This Disneyland Churro Toffee Recipe Is a Dead Ringer For the Park's Hottest New Treat
Jenny Flake from Picky Palate is here to help you re-create Disneyland's trendiest new treat: churro toffee! Click through some of her step-by-step photos, and get the recipe at the end.
I have so much fun creating Disneyland copycat recipes! Stay tuned for more coming soon. This is "churro toffee," as I like to call it, from Disney California Adventure Park's Trolley Treats located on Buena Vista Street! Before you learn to make homemade English toffee, you'll need to purchase a candy thermometer. Check the kitchen section from any Target or Walmart. Some grocery stores even carry them. Amazon is my favorite to order for quick delivery! Be sure to check out my Mickey Mouse sugar cookies for more Disney magic at home!
These Presents Will Be on Everyone's Wish List This Year Because They Are Just That Good
Looking for the hottest Christmas gifts this year? Well, look no further, because we found each and every one of them. With gifts for everyone on your list - from kids to boyfriends - these presents will make holiday shopping easier than ever before.
Check out the most popular gifts this year, and be sure to save some room on your wish list, too.
- Additional reporting Macy Cate Williams, Krista Jones, Rebecca Brown, Alessia Santoro, and India Yaffe.
Wine Wrapping 101: 50+ Crafty and Creative Ways to Vamp Up the Vino
No one can go wrong with gifting wine during the holidays because it's a simple (and much-appreciated) present for all wine-lovers. This year, step up your gifting game by wrapping your wine bottles in beautiful, festive, and effortless ways. Just add tissue paper and tinsel!
Cheers to the holidays!
These Were the 10 Products Most Bought by Cat Owners in 2018, So Here Are My Cats' Holiday Gifts
I'm not necessarily the type of pet owner who buys my cats holiday gifts - if I see a cute toy or happen to need to replenish treats around the holidays, then sure, I'll wait until Christmas morning to give my two cats the loot. However, this year they're making out like the little bandits they are because Amazon shared a list of the top 10 products that cat owners purchased this year, and I'm about to add most of them to my cart.
Check out the products ahead - I'll say sorry in advance, because if you're anything like me, you're about to get really hyped and drop $30 on a water fountain bowl.
We Don't Want to Unwrap Presents Anymore - These Wrapping Papers Are Way Too Cute!
Step up your holiday gift wrapping game this year with some of the best decorative paper in the business. While most gift-getters are excited to find out what's under the wrapping paper, they will definitely appreciate the outside of their gifts just as much as the presents themselves.
With wrapping paper for Star Wars fans, cat-lovers, pop culture fanatics, and everything in between, your presents will never look better than they do under this year's Christmas tree. Shop more than 100 options ahead!
29 Last-Minute Gifts Under $50 So Good, You'll Stop Freaking Out About Shopping Late
So you dropped the ball on gift shopping this year. That's OK - we're going to help you out. We found some brilliant last-minute present ideas that are all under $50. If you have an Amazon Prime membership, you can get free two-day shipping on many items. Nordstrom and Shopbop also offer expedited shipping options. So look through these affordable options and get them ordered ASAP - you only have a little time left!
Trader Joe's Has Peppermint Bark Popcorn Coated in White Chocolate AND Salted Caramel
Do you ever feel like Trader Joe's just gets you? Like when it releases a snack you've secretly been dreaming about? That's how I felt when I discovered the new Peppermint Bark Popcorn ($3). Two of my favorite foods are popcorn and minty things (peppermint bark, mint chocolate chip ice cream, York Peppermint Patties - you name it). So my eyes just about popped out of my head when I saw this holiday snack in adorable, just-festive-enough packaging. Kind of like a present, this popcorn has layers. It starts with a crunchy piece of popcorn, which is then coated in salted caramel, dark chocolate, and a thick layer of white chocolate before it's finished with crushed peppermint pieces. Eating it is a gift to yourself, really.
The popcorn is salty, sweet, cool, and creamy all at the same time. I always need one of those huge tins of cheddar and caramel popcorn during the holidays, and I'm definitely adding this to the lineup, too. See more photos of the sweet treat ahead, and don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for more holiday gifts from Trader Joe's.
Um, You Guys? Where Has This GIANT Marshmallow Sheet Been All My Life?
If you're a marshmallow person - which, who isn't? - may I kindly suggest you sit down? I have some (literally) big news: a GIANT marshmallow sheet exists. Melville Candy's Giant Marshmallow Sheet is available at World Market for only $13, and you guys, the baking options are endless. As the packaging shows, the sheet can easily be cut into cute shapes, and how have I lived all this time without topping my hot cocoa with a perfect marshmallow snowflake? The sheet is 15 inches by 11 inches and half an inch thick, so it's also an ideal product for making s'mores.
After a bit of digging, I learned that Melville Candy also makes a whole bunch of marshmallow drink toppers that are already shaped and sprinkled into festive little treats! Holiday confetti marshmallow toppers? Check. Chocolate peppermint marshmallow toppers? Check. Chocolate-DIPPED toppers? Yep, Melville Candy makes those too. Check out the company's site to see all the holiday marshmallow toppers, and keep reading to see more pictures of the treats, which would make for great gifts or fun holiday party goodies.
When It Comes to the Hot 2018 Christmas Tree Color, Black Is the New Green
This just in: the latest craze for Christmas trees is an unexpected color. According to Wayfair, there has been a 70 percent increase in site searches for artificial black trees this year, and these ebony beauties have been popping up all over Instagram and Pinterest. You may be thinking that whoever said black was the new pine is seriously disturbed, but even if you think you're forever evergreen, you may just change your mind once you see how people are embracing this holiday trend. From Wayfair and Treetopia to Amazon and Walmart, you can find the black tree of your dreams, and then you can check out this gallery for some style inspiration.
I Tried to Quit My Smartphone Addiction and (Spoiler Alert) Failed Miserably
I need rehab. Actual, real-life, smartphone rehab. Listen, I knew I was addicted to my smartphone before I tried to go smartphone-free for one week, but I didn't know how addicted I was. Now that I know, I'm actually scared for myself and, dare I say, society as a whole.
Shortly after my daughter was born, I actually attempted this digital detox song and dance. Why? I caught myself checking my phone while I was driving my precious cargo in the car. I felt guilty whenever she saw me scrolling during playtime. I found myself taking drastic measures like actually hiding my phone just to stay in the present moment. I started to think that I had a real problem. Turns out that I do.
According to my phone's data, I spend an average of four hours and 23 minutes on my phone per day! It's clear that I need to get clean. So, I decided to take on the difficult, but not impossible, task of turning off all of my cellular data and WiFi dialing. I was determined to use my phone as 1998 intended - make calls, take calls, and maybe store a photo here and there. I want to be clear: this meant no music, no Google Maps, no email, no social media, no apps, nothing for one whole week!
Let me just tell you that this seemingly innocent experiment made with the intention of being more present in those picture-perfect moments (as opposed to ruining them by taking actual pictures) really opened my eyes to the severity of my smartphone addiction.
My name is Jen, and I am a smartphone addict. Here's my (attempted) recovery story.
Forget the Mistletoe! These Ugly Christmas Sweaters For Couples Are So Much Better
From the cheesy to the cute to the downright crazy, ugly Christmas sweaters are one of the best parts about the holiday season . . . and they just got better.
Grab your significant other (or best friend!) and get ready to be the best-looking couple at the holiday party this year with these Christmas sweaters for couples. Warning: these sweaters are about to turn up the heat on your Winter wardrobe (and your relationship).
The 100 Best High-Tech Gifts of 2018 for Any Guy in Your Life
It doesn't matter whether he's your dad, husband, or brother, shopping for men who already have their dens decked out with every tech toy imaginable is tough. So we've put together a gift guide for the guys who have it all. These are gifts he definitely won't expect.
- Additional reporting by Nicole Yi and Tara Block
36 Disney World Hacks That Will Make Your Trip Even More Magical
Want to avoid the long Walt Disney World lines? We can help with that. Some of the park's biggest fans came together on two Quora threads to offer tips and tricks for making your trip to Disney World even more magical - and more economical, too. These hacks will help you navigate the parks, find the best deals, and make the most of the happiest place on the planet.
Related: Disney World Is Infinitely Better Than Disneyland, and Here's Why
Start Saving Up, Because These Expensive Christmas Gifts Are Worth Every Penny
Class never goes out of style, which is why these presents are worth more than their price tags. With everything from luxe travel bags to dainty and delicate jewelry, there is nothing on this list that won't wow the person you are shopping for this holiday season.
So give the gift of downright luxury this year, and you will make the holidays more than just merry and bright.
- Additional reporting Krista Jones, India Yaffe, and Lisa Sugar.
The Quickest Way to Find Your Top 9 Instagram Posts of 2018
Seeing your top nine Instagram posts of the year always reveals a little bit about you, ya know? For me, that means two pastas and one pizza made the mix, which I'm zero percent shocked by. (Shout out to Barzotto in San Francisco for its very photogenic pasta with marinara and ricotta. If you, too, enjoy taking a look back and seeing which photos on your grid got the most likes throughout the year, the Top Nine app and website has you covered.
How to Find Your Instagram Top Nine of 2018
- Go to the Top Nine website or download the app in the App Store
- Enter your Instagram username; your account must be public
- Enter your email address
- Check your email, and you'll receive your Instagram Top Nine as a JPEG attachment
- Nod with agreement and say, "Yep, I remember that"
Top Nine will organize your most liked photos in order, and it'll also tell you your total number of likes for the year. Get ready for an influx of Top Nine grids in your feed as we scroll on through to 2019.
Google Released Its Annual Year-in-Search Video, and My Tear Ducts Are Already Exhausted
Reflective year-in-review videos make us cry no matter how predictable they are, but what's interesting about Google's newly released Year in Search video is that it demonstrates how unpredictable 2018 really was.
Though it's worth watching in its entirety, the video features many triumphs, including the box-office success and cultural importance of Crazy Rich Asians, the hopeful outcome of the midterm elections, and Cardi B's banner year. There are moments for romance, like that Emmys proposal and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal wedding, and reminders of how just how strange the internet can be. (Remember Yanny vs. Laurel?) Then, of course, there are moments to remember those we've lost, including Stephen Hawking, George H.W. Bush, and Anthony Bourdain. Watch the gracefully packaged video above.
We Asked, They Answered: A Bunch of Guys Share Their Best Dating Tips (That Actually Work)
Frankly, I was starting to wonder if my old tried-and-true dating tips have gotten stale, so I decided to take a break from my own online dating experiments and waxing poetic about dating apps to listen in on what the gentlemen had to say about what works and what doesn't when it comes to the art of romance. Here are their honest answers for single men and single women navigating the world of dating.
Score Major Points With 21 Gifts For Meeting the Family
When you're meeting your significant other's family for the first time over the holidays, the pressure can be on to bring something memorable - in a good way. So if you find yourself in that boat, we've got some gift ideas to make a great first impression and keep the meet-up stress free. Check them out now!
30 Gifts Your 30-Something Boyfriend Will Want This Year
Trying to find the perfect present for your significant other? We know it's hard sometimes. If you've got a husband or boyfriend in his 30s, we have a whole guide of gifts just for your guy. Let us do all the work for you and we guarantee you'll give your man something he will love. Check out our top picks.
40+ Gifts That'll Help Your Photographer Friend Get ALL the "Likes"
Finding the perfect gift for a photographer is almost as hard as a photographer getting the perfect shot. It has to be creative, thoughtful, and (pun intended) picture-perfect. Take a look at these gifts and get ready to snap a picture, because they are totally photo-worthy.
- Additional reporting by Erin Cullum
33 White Elephant Gifts Your Friends Will Actually Love
If we're being perfectly honest, nobody actually needs any of these white elephant gifts. But we promise that your friends will be ecstatic when they get their hands on these presents. If you're looking to buy a gift with a little humor to it, look no further. Check out all 33 brilliant products you'll actually be dying to own.
20 Gifts Your 20-Something Boyfriend Will Love
Giving presents to your significant other can be a real stressor, that's why we're here to be your holiday shopping spirit guide. Take a deep breath and open your Internet browser; it's never too early to begin holiday shopping. If you've got a boyfriend in his 20s, we have a whole guide of gifts perfect for your man. Check out all 20 of the foolproof options.
22 Mermaid Gifts For Aspiring Ariels
As an ode to the wave-riding girl who gave us an obsession with fins, we found tons of incredible mermaid-inspired gifts that will impress Ariel-lovers more than a dinglehopper. Check out all of these awesome gifts for your BFFs . . . or yourself.
30 Sparkly Gifts For the Glitter-Obsessed Girl
All that glitters may not be gold, but we don't really care, because sparkles are better anyway. We're not ashamed to say that we're drawn to shiny stuff like moths to a flame. There are plenty of other girls out there who would cover their bodies in glitter daily if they could, but unfortunately that's not office appropriate. Instead, we rounded up every sparkly gift we could find so that your glitter-obsessed friends can shine bright like a diamond all day every day. Check out all the products that would make Kesha and Elton John proud.
35 Gifts For the Guy Who Basically Has Everything
Men can be the toughest nut to crack when it comes to shopping. They aren't always vocal about what they want (and don't have 12,000 Pinterest boards like we do), and to make things worse, anything they have their eye on, they buy themselves. But we're here to help! No matter what your guy's interests are, we've got a gift idea for him! Check out our extensive gift guide now!
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
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