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.
jeudi 20 décembre 2018
This Teenager With Down Syndrome Is Taking the Cheerleading World by Storm, and We're Inspired
For 13-year-old Audrey Chisholm - a flyer on the cheerleading squad who also happens to have Down syndrome - the sky is truly the limit. After her squad won nationals, her mom Jody Chisholm spoke about how life-changing her daughter's cheerleading experience has been ever since she joined a team for children with special needs at age 5.
"I get choked up when I tell people about this experience," Jody told POPSUGAR. "I love to see Audrey this happy and with so many friends surrounding her. My heart is full of joy! While I love this for Audrey, I also admire every one of her peers for their selfless actions. Together, they are making this a better world for people with different abilities."
"Together, they are making this a better world for people with different abilities."
Although Audrey has met tons of friends through her various cheerleading teams, there were some bumps in the road due to a coaching change.
"She was successful [on one team] until a coaching change, and then she was excluded from competing even though the event had accommodations for athletes with disabilities," said Jody. "It was an ugly battle and we left brokenhearted. We were introduced to her current coaches three years ago and the experience had been a complete 180 change."
60 Unusual Baby Names That’ll Kick the Trendy Names Off Your List in 2019
As someone who lives her life with the name Alessia, I'm used to having to correct people on the pronunciation and spelling of my name - and though I missed out on personalized pencils as a kid and have lost hundreds of spare moments reintroducing myself to people who aren't compassionate enough to hold a unique name in their brains for more than three seconds, I've learned to own my name. I'm glad I'm not Nicole S. or Katie with the brown hair, that's for sure. If you're looking to kick the trendy names off your baby name list in 2019 to opt for something that'll spice up your child's future class roster the way Alessia did for me, we've sifted through some of our absolute favorite unusual names to inspire you.
I threw my own name in there (Sue me!), but really, these 60 names are good.
How I Survived the Hell That Is Exclusive Pumping and How You Can Too
I knew the facts: most new mothers struggle to feed their newborns in the beginning. But there's more at play than just your milk not coming in. Manually squeezing out colostrum is kind of like working with a lip pimple that makes you squirm with each pinch, except when you're yanking at the nipple in a hospital setting, looking up at your partner for some sort of head nod to indicate that your technique looks right - as if they'd know! - the whole thing is just that much more stressful.
Getting my lanky 22 1/2-inch-long daughter to latch on days one, two, three, and beyond was more than just a struggle, though. She'd arch her back and flail her head left and right, occasionally latching. Then she'd suck with the intensity of a Dyson vacuum, at which point I'd gasp, hold my breath, and shut my eyes. Just get to 10 seconds. One . . . two . . . three . . . Then I'd yank her off and wipe my tears.
Football hold. Cradle hold. Crossover hold. Nipple shield. Boppy. Breast friend. The tools and techniques changed hourly, but our dance always ended the same. I'd count to 10, yank her off, and we'd both cry, but for different reasons. Then I'd find my breast pump and shove my battered nipples into the plastic tubes of misery and jump with each tug, occasionally pumping each boob separately in order to nurse one back to health.
I saw two lactation specialists and a dermatologist - skin infections on the nipple or areola are occasionally the culprit - and everyone came up baffled as to why it was so wildly painful when my little gal nursed. There was no tongue tie and no infection. Just a lot of experts shrugging their shoulders saying variations of, "It should not be this painful," or, "It really should have gotten easier for you by now," and, "I'm really surprised these small cuts haven't healed."
Me and you both.
With my daughter's body weight on a continued dip, I followed a lactation specialist's advice and started pumping. Exclusively. Unlike "regular" moms who typically nurse at the boob and only pump to either store milk, relieve pressure, or make a bottle so someone else can handle a feeding, I was only going to pump. And given the relationship I'd already developed with my pump - I found it equally as painful as nursing, except with the pump, I was in control of the pain - I knew I needed to change some things.
My holy lactation specialist told me that for my own sanity, I should only pump eight times a day for 20 minutes max. I had been pumping 10 to 12 times a day for 30 minutes at a time to build my supply, which goes against the advice you read online, but my letdown wasn't happening until about 20 minutes in. So I had to pump for 30 minutes in order to collect anything worth pouring into a bottle.
The first few months of exclusive pumping felt like nothing short of house arrest. Day and night bled into each other. I spent my time oscillating between feeding my daughter with a bottle and being strapped into my hospital-grade Spectra S2 breast pump, connected to the wall by a six-foot-long power cord with no give. Pumping the prescribed eight times a day for my needed 30 minutes meant 240 minutes - that's four hours - and that didn't include bottle making, bottle cleanup, or the days when I had to pump one boob at a time (so an hour) because of a clogged duct.
While my journey of becoming my daughter's number one milk supplier was less than traditional (I cannot tell you how many mothers would dip their chins at me when I told them I was exclusively pumping and say, "Oh my God, I could never do that"), I'm almost six months in and have a better understanding of what really works for me.
If you're playing around with the idea of EPing, here are a few things that might help you along the way.
You’re Not SOL - These 25 Last-Minute Dad Gifts Will Get to You Just in Time
If you've spent a majority of the month decorating your house and buying the family matching pajamas, chances are you've put some of your gift-buying off to the last minute. It's OK. There are so many retailers offering two-day shipping, you can still avoid the gift card territory and buy them something great. From elevated accessories that encourage their coffee habit to gag gifts, here are some of the best ideas for him that will show up on your doorstep in no time.
I Can Barely Afford Christmas Presents For My Daughter - and I'm Happier That Way
I swear I'm not the Grinch. but this year, a small part of me has been dreading Christmas. As a single mom who works part-time from home, my 2-year-old daughter and I are living at my mom's house until I can save enough money to get back on my feet. My job as a work-from-home mom is fulfilling, and I do what I love, but daycare, activities, cable, internet, food, and clothes are pretty expensive - and doing it all on just one salary doesn't leave a lot of money left over for Christmas presents.
I might not be able to get her everything on her list this year, but so what? I still have a daughter who is healthy, happy, smart, and funny.
When she was a baby, it wasn't bad. But my now very vocal and very imaginative 2-year-old obviously believes in Santa and already worships the ground he walks on. You better believe she's made her Christmas list known to me. And I can guarantee you, she's checked it way more than twice. "Maybe Santa will get it for me," she always suggests with a little hopeful smile when we pass a toy in Target.
After crunching the numbers, I knew my daughter wouldn't be getting a plentiful pile of presents under the tree this year. Maybe one or two at most. As my bank account dwindled, so did my dreams of giving my daughter the full Christmas experience. At first, I panicked. Then I worried. I got sucked into the black abyss that is mom guilt and furiously searched the internet for the best upcoming deals. Then I crunched the numbers again.
When my pity party was over, I started thinking of all the things I still had to be happy about. I might not be able to get her everything on her list this year, but so what? I still have a daughter who is healthy, happy, smart, and funny. I still have a roof over my head and food to eat. I still get to spend Christmas with my family.
I started to replace her Christmas list of toys with fun Christmas activities and experiences we can do together instead. Building snowmen, taking sleigh rides, making paper snowflakes, drinking hot chocolate, baking cookies, watching Christmas movies, singing Christmas songs, decorating the tree . . . the list goes on and on. And most of them don't cost anything but a little one-on-one time and love.
I hope my daughter will always love making memories like this with me during Christmas and won't feel disappointed. I know it's been my favorite gift so far.
Amazon Is Selling Weighted Blankets For Dogs, Because They Get Anxiety, Too
Whether you have a senior dog or rescue puppy at home, chances are you've had to deal with their emotional triggers at some point. Pet behavior varies, and anything can set them off - a loud and unexpected noise, separation anxiety, or changes in everyday life. This holiday season, if you'll be taking your pup on a long road trip or having them stay elsewhere while you travel, try soothing their nerves with a Canine Coddler ($80).
It's a weighted blanket designed specifically for dogs. It applies pressure to the animal in the same way the blankets do for adults. Check it out ahead!
Just Like the Song, You Won't Be Able to Get These "Baby Shark" Birthday Party Ideas Out of Your Head
If you have children, chances are you've heard the song "Baby Shark" at least 500 times. The incessantly catchy song first gained attention in 2015, and has since been remade more times than we can count - including being featured on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and The Late Late Show with James Corden, and it's only getting more popular. And if your little one is as obsessed with "Baby Shark" as we think they are, it would make a great birthday party theme! From first birthdays to ages up to five (or older!), there are so many ways to incorporate "Baby Shark" into large-scale birthday extravaganzas and more intimate affairs. Keep reading to see them all.
Disneyland's New Floral Mouse Ears Will Instantly Transport You to Paradise
Paradise has landed in Southern California - and it's all due to a pair of plumeria-covered ears.
When Disneyland's Tropical Hideaway opens on Friday, Dec. 21, it'll serve bao buns, Dole Whip swirls, and other treats, but we're most excited (and shocked!) by the addition of these sweet Minnie ears.
This sparkly surprise comes straight from Aulani - Disney's resort in Kapolei, HI - and everything about them is pure beach-y bliss. The black sequin headband is affixed with two plumeria flowers and even boasts an Aulani tag, making Disneyland's Tropical Hideaway kinda like a one-way ticket to the Hawaiian beach resort. (There's even a little Mickey gem hidden within the center of each flower, for a bit of mouse magic!)
As thrilled as we are about a new pair of Minnie ears hitting the park, we can't help but think: could this mean the hotel's exclusive ShellieMay merchandise may land at the park in the future? Only time will tell, but we're already dreaming of what special bags, headbands, and goodies might await.
You can find this fantastic souvenir on a rack near the checkout counter, but we have a feeling this sparkly shocker, which costs $30, won't last. Between the delicious grub and new Dole Whip (!), they're bound to be a popular find. Pop on a pair, pose for a picture in front of Rosita with a frosty pineapple float, and bask in that glorious beach vacation glow, even if you're only in Adventureland.
6 Ways to Teach Your Kids to Appreciate All You Do For Them, Because You Do a Lot
You know that old saying "we hurt the ones we love the most?" Well, I'm starting to believe it originated from a parent who was trying to justify their 7-year-old daughter's atrocious treatment of them. Seriously, my former little angel has always taken me for granted in the way that only a child should, but lately, her behavior has become downright entitled, bordering on seriously spoiled.
She lives a privileged life, complete with two parents and four grandparents who would do pretty much anything for her (she's our only daughter and the only granddaughter on both sides); but throughout her life, I've made a concerted effort to teach her about gratitude and that her blessings are not entitlements. Slowly, through a lot of work, she's starting to understand that I am her mother and not her cook, maid, driver, or punching bag. If you have a child whose appreciation of you seems woefully underdeveloped, here's how to get at least a few of the kudos you deserve.
Ho-Ho-HOMG! People Are Dressing Their Dogs as Santa, and Why Didn't I Think of This?
The sky is the limit when it comes to getting your pets ready for the holidays. You can indulge the entire family and get everyone matching pajamas, you can opt for a look more regal and get the dog festive sweaters, or you can do what dog parents on Instagram are doing and dress them up as Santa. Decked out in the fundamental red hat, these 16 owners have given us the greatest gift of all: the #SantaDog.
Power Pumping Is the Hack Every Breastfeeding Mom Should Know
Any breastfeeding mom can attest that pumping is a drag. Even if you spend half the day attached to a breast pump, you still might find you're not generating enough milk, which is a real dilemma for moms who hope to exclusively breastfeed. Having a quality pump is essential (a double electric pump works best for moms looking to express several times a day), but power pumping might also give your milk supply the boost it needs to alleviate at least some of the stress from the pumping process.
Before considering power pumping, breastfeeding mothers should first get in touch with a trained breastfeeding counselor or a board-certified lactation consultant to make sure they even have reason to be concerned about their milk supply (because you just might be more normal than you think!).
Just like the economic model of price determination in a market, lactation operates according to the principle of supply and demand. Regular pumping sends a signal to your body to produce more milk. The idea behind power pumping (a technique developed by international board-certified lactation consultant Catherine Watson Genna, who specializes in breastfeeding with medical challenges) is to empty your milk supply in rapid concentrated intervals so that your body compensates by creating more milk than usual.
Power pumping simulates "cluster feeding," when feeding is spaced closer together at certain times of the day and longer at other times, but without bringing any potential harm to your baby in the process. According to Genna, "Pumping doesn't have to be spaced out evenly to be effective." Instead of using regularly spaced intervals of pump stimulation to help stimulate your milk supply, power pumping suggests taking that regular pumping pattern and concentrating it into an intense one-hour removal process to send your mammary glands into overdrive.
Power pumping works best when done immediately after a breastfeeding session or, for pump-dependent mothers, in lieu of a feeding session. As Jody Segrave-Daly (IBCLC and cofounder of The Fed Is Best Foundation) says, pick a time for an uninterrupted hour-long pumping session and follow a pattern of pumping and resting in 10-minute intervals:
- Pump for 10 minutes
- Rest for 10 minutes
- Pump for 10 minutes
- Rest for 10 minutes
- Pump for 10 minutes
- Rest for 10 minutes
Milk supply is highest in the morning, so that's the best time to do it if your schedule allows. If you don't have a full hour to commit, Segrave-Daly suggests that you split your pumping into 30-minute session two times a day instead, following a pattern of pump, rest, pump, and then later, pump, rest, pump.
After you finish a power pumping cycle and resume your normal pumping schedule, you'll probably still need to wait at least two days before you see results. Power pumping can be done as often as every seven days, though some moms prefer to power pump for a few days at a time before returning to a regular schedule. Some moms find that they can increase their supply by as much as 50 percent by power pumping, but as there can be several explanations for a low milk supply, it's important to remember that power pumping may not work for every mom.
Breastfeeding is every mother's personal choice, so how and when you pump (or if you even pump at all!) totally depends on what works best for your body and your baby.
Kayla Itsines Just Announced She's Pregnant in the Sweetest Way Possible
Used to sweating it out with Kayla Itsines a few days a week? Well according to the trainer's Instagram, you may be getting a new workout buddy, because she's officially expecting a baby with her long-time partner Tobi Pearce. She shared the news in a sweet video on Dec. 18, and we can't get enough of it.
"20 WEEKS PREGNANT," she wrote in the caption. "Tobi and I do not even have words to describe how happy and excited we are to bring you this news! If you don't know already, I come from a big Greek family. FAMILY is always what comes first in my life. To be able to start my own family with the person I love most in this world is just an absolute dream come true. Tobi has been SO supportive, SO EXCITED and so loving! He comes home every day, hugs and kisses my stomach. He lays on my legs and asks the baby how it's day was. He is at every scan and every appointment. I couldn't ask for a better partner. Our family, well haha . . . you can just imagine - they are of course ABSOLUTELY OVER THE MOON EXCITED. I know you are already picturing the look on their faces when we told them."
Congrats to their growing family!
5 Earth-Friendly Resolutions You Can Actually - Easily - Keep in 2019
This past year offered brutal proof that climate change isn't going anywhere. We suffered forest fires, hurricanes, and steadily rising temperatures - and that was just in the United States. The good news? Going greener in 2019 doesn't have to decimate your bank account, obliterate your social life, or require moving from your apartment into a tree house.
The alternative to taking action isn't pretty. A terrifying climate assessment released in November told us we should expect higher temperatures, continued environmental devastation, and millions displaced as sea levels continue to rise over the next series of decades if we don't get serious about climate change. Policies like the 2015 Paris Agreement will help, but much of this boils down to personal accountability in these contemporary, capitalistic times. How are we enabling environmental harm? How can we each help enact a broader sea change that can keep the planet calm and carrying on into our collective future?
The truth is there are lots of simple things we can do. As we enter 2019, this is the perfect time to use your resolutions to shift your lifestyle to one that pays respect to the feminist icon that is Mother Nature. Here are five easy-to-accomplish green resolutions that you can actually keep in 2019 . . .
This Ex-NASA Engineer Is Putting an End to Package Theft - One Glitter Bomb at a Time
Most of us know the feeling of having a delivery stolen from our porches too well. We also know the feeling of wanting the thieves who ran off with our packages to at least face some sort of consequences. That desire for revenge is what inspired former NASA engineer Mark Rober's latest passion project.
After being told by police earlier this year that not much could be done about a few packages that were stolen from his doorstep, Rober decided to take matters into his own hands by creating a bait package to teach would-be burglars a lesson. With the help of a few equally vengeful friends, Rober spent six months building a booby-trapped device that shoots out glitter and frequent bursts of fart spray when opened by thieves. He also rigged the contraption with four phones to capture the reaction of each thief on video. As you can probably imagined, the results are pretty sidesplitting. See how Rober's device came together in the video above.
This Gorgeous Rustic Wedding Elegantly Incorporates Nature Into the Nuptials
Leann and Carl tied the knot in an intimate ceremony surrounded by family, friends, and lots of joy. The pair decided to have a beautiful rustic wedding, and photographer Phylicia Willis was there to capture the magic. "This day couldn't have been more peaceful from start to finish," she said. "There was such a calmness to Leann as she got ready in the hotel. She had beautiful thought-out details, from her choice of apparel, colors, flowers, and the symbolic streamers that were waved at their ceremony exit."
The lush, nature-inspired color scheme enhanced the ambience, as the dark-brown wood made the ideal backdrop for the greenery from all the flowers and plants and the shimmering golden details. The bride wore a lovely strapless gown with a mermaid-cut and lace detailing. The groom chose a sleek white tuxedo with a black bow-tie.
As for the gorgeous ceremony, Phylicia said, "My favorite part of their day had to be the vows. Carl's vows were a tearjerker, but Leann singing her vows to him was the icing on the cake! I got to witness such a sweet day that was filled with the couple's closest family and friends, and I couldn't be more honored to have been a part of it."
Keep reading to see the lovely photos from this intimate Boca Raton, FL, wedding now.
Related: You'll Be Starry-Eyed Over This 1920s-Inspired Wedding - Complete With Showstopping Gown!
21 Signs You're Shamelessly Obsessed With Christmas
You smell that? It's the sweet scent of holiday cheer. That's right - it's time for all the Christmas fanatics to let their freak flags fly. They don't call it the most wonderful time of the year for nothing, duh. If you're truly obsessed with Christmas, you'll totally relate to these 21 signs - let's put your seasonal spirit to the test.
These 17 Stylish Travel Bags Prove You Don't Have to Sacrifice Fashion For Function
We can't wait to fly off to some epic vacation or spend time curled up with loved ones this season, but the actual traveling part of holiday travel is rarely filled with joy. Well, that's all about to change. We know that when you look good, you feel good, and these travel bags will have you feeling like the organized jet-setter that you are, or at least aspire to be. Just keep reading to shop our picks - they also make great gifts!
These 120 Stocking Stuffers Are Already Better Than Whatever Is Under the Christmas Tree
Get ready for every 20-something's stocking to be overflowing on Christmas morning, because these stocking stuffers are just that good. They are totally cute and budget-friendly, and most importantly, they will fit perfectly in any size stocking.
From beauty sets to tasteful trinkets to even some nostalgic '90s goodies, these stocking stuffers will be appreciated by all young women on Christmas morning.
- Additional reporting by Jesa Marie Calaor, Macy Cate Williams, Krista Jones, and India Yaffe
Related: 50 Secret Santa Gifts That Will Make You Say, "I Hope I've Been Nice This Year"
Meet the Best Stocking Stuffers of the Holiday Season
Shopping for stocking stuffers is anything but stressful; these fun, adorable presents are sure to make anyone smile! This season, we did the hard work for you and are here to share some of our favorite stocking stuffers of 2018. Think pretty beauty products, fun tech accessories, and games the whole family can enjoy. We might just need a bigger stocking!
Tokyo Disneyland Has Been Crowned 2018's "Happiest Place on Earth" - Here Are the Pics to Prove It
Sorry Disneyland and Disney World, but according to Instagram's 2018 year in review, Japan's Disney park is the legit "happiest place on Earth." Tokyo Disneyland was 2018's happiest geotagged location in the world, with the most smiley faces used in photo captions on the social network.
If you've never visited Tokyo's two Disney theme parks - Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disneysea - then you're missing out on one of the cutest parks out there. Opened in April of 1983 by the Oriental Land Company, Tokyo Disneyland is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year (and has since expanded into a full-scale Disney resort, with two theme parks, four Disney hotels, six non-Disney hotels, and a shopping complex. From the adorable culinary offerings to the insanely energetic shows, it's no surprise that Tokyo Disney tops the happiness charts. Don't believe us? Check out the gallery for all of the magic Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disneysea have to offer and try not to smile.
Escape the Cold This Season at the Top Winter Sun Travel Destinations Around the World
Oh, baby, it's getting cold outside. The year's frostiest season is knocking at the door, promising months of icy temps and snow-covered landscapes. While the Winter season does bring with it the holidays and prime snow-shredding conditions, the shorter days and frigid nights can also bring on a case of the Winter blues. So, if you need to recharge and defrost this season, read on for 10 warm-weather destinations that are sure to provide sunshine-filled relief from the year's coldest months.
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
100+ Gifts Your Man Will Love (and Actually Use!)
Gift shopping for guys can be notoriously tricky. It's easy to go the kitschy and cute route, but for the holidays, we want our man to have something meaningful, too. We've rounded up more than 100 gift ideas at every price point, from fun cocktail glasses to beautiful leather accessories and bags. Take a look at this year's list.
- Additional Reporting by Hilary White
Monopoly Pizza Is Here, and You Better Believe It Comes in a Takeout Box
Has a board game ever made you drool? . . . No? Well get ready, dear reader, because that's about to change now that Monopoly Pizza has arrived. In this tasty twist on the classic game, players buy pizza rather than properties, advancing around the board and snatching up as many toppings as they can - from pepperoni and spinach to mac and cheese and pineapple. Players must aim to assemble a color set that corresponds to a certain type of 'za, such as barbecue chicken or veggie lovers. At the end of the game, whoever collects the most slices is crowned victorious.
Of course, the game pieces are pizza-themed, with shiny silver tokens shaped like a chef, cheese grater, pie slicer, and more. Oh, and we almost forgot to mention a very vital detail: Monopoly Pizza comes packaged in a takeout box that looks like the real deal - except, y'know, it's not covered in pizza grease. Check out a few photos of the foodie-approved Hasbro game ahead, and be sure to preorder it on Amazon or Walmart before the other pizza-lovers of the world beat you to it.
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.
All the Christmas Cookie Recipes You Could Possibly Want For the Holidays
Some may think Christmas is all about togetherness and exchanging gifts and spreading cheer, and while all those things are lovely, what Christmas is really about is the food, right? OK, maybe it's not all about the food, but Christmas cookies, in particular, are very, very important. Whether you want to whip up a batch for a cookie exchange or just make every cookie known to man to snack on during the whole month of December, the simple fact of the matter is that you need a wide variety of options to choose from. Variety is the spice of life! Luckily, we've gathered over 100 recipes to sort through so you can make sure you're baking a whole bunch of yummy cookies that you can share with your friends and family when you're doing the whole togetherness, exchanging gifts, and spreading cheer part of the holidays. Keep reading to see them all.
- Additional reporting by Anna Monette Roberts
Related: 20+ Hot Toddy Recipes to Keep You Warm and Cozy This Winter
Santa's Comin' to Town, and He Has All the Best Gifts For College Guys
College guys don't just want things for Christmas - they need things. With a tight budget going toward beer and football game tickets, there's only so much they can spend their spare cash on . . . which means that this holiday season, they need things to get them through the rest of the semester and (hopefully) the rest of the school year.
Get the college guy on your list fun and functional gifts with everything from school necessities to the ultimate college essentials. Be sure to remind him that even though he's away at college, being on the nice list still pays off.
Petco Sells Holiday Socks For Your Dog - They’re the Cutest Thing Ever, but Dogs Will Remember This
You've bought a present for everyone on your list and are just realizing now that while doggo has a pair of matching family pajamas he's been wearing all month, you don't actually have a special present just for him. Something he won't have to share with anyone else. Well, we have the perfect thing. Petco not only sells adorable Christmas socks for dogs, but they're on sale! We can't guarantee they'll stay on their paws, but they're pretty darn cute.
Related: This App Lets You Send Cards Starring Your Dog Because No One Wants a Holiday Card of Just You
13 Tiny Stocking Stuffers So Cute, You Might Pass Out From Excitement
We love Urban Outfitters for its cool home products and trendy clothes, but this holiday season the popular retailer has a seriously good gifting selection. On a recent scroll through the site, we discovered an adorable section of tiny gifts we just can't get enough of. From mini vacuums to Care Bears and even a Rubik's cube, there's no doubt your loved ones will be obsessed with these sweet presents, too. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
These 15 Last-Minute Gifts Look Like You Picked Them Out Months Ago
As much as we want to be the people who've done their shopping months in advance, we'll be honest and say that we're guilty of waiting until the last minute sometimes. But never fear. If you're an Amazon Prime member, all these gifts can be at your door in just two days. Yes, that's right, two days. Nobody will believe how cute these gifts are, and they'll never know you waited until the last minute.
Made Too Many Cookies? Here's How to Properly Freeze Them
The holiday season is really the most wonderful time of the year. Apart from time off from work and school, gifts, and Christmas carols, one of the best things about the holidays is all the baked goods! Whether you're a seasoned pro at baking or just starting out, baking is a time-consuming process that I know I wish would sometimes speed up. That's why it's so important to learn how to properly freeze the cookies you'll be baking this holiday season. Learning this trick will ensure that you always have a batch of delicious cookies ready to warm up for unexpected holiday guests or ready to give to any coworkers or teachers.
The best kind of cookies to freeze are cutouts, icebox, and drop cookies, but try to avoid freezing cookies that are decorated or filled. And if you're planning on freezing chocolate-coated cookies, just keep in mind that even though they'll taste fine after thawing, they may have a white-colored haze on them afterwards that might not look as appealing. Here's how to properly freeze cookies so they taste (and look) as good as they did right out of the oven.
Being Bold Never Looked Better - These 15 Statement Wallpapers Will Stop You in Your Tracks
Looking for a way to change the look of your home without changing too much? Look no further, because statement wallpaper is all you need. With some help from our friends at Sweeten, a free service that matches renovators with general contractors, we're here to give you some showstopping examples of wallpaper that packs a punch. With bold prints and wild designs, a simple touch of wallpaper could transform the whole look of any room in minutes. Don't be afraid to be bold and try these styles out. And be sure to check out even more 2019 home trends on the horizon here!
33 Unique Stocking Stuffers They Weren't Expecting but Will Totally Love
If you're stumped on what stocking stuffers to get your loved ones this year, not to worry, we made it easy by curating a list of the coolest choices out there. From robot salt and pepper shakers to mini chia pets and pretty candles, we found something for everyone on your list. Keep scrolling to shop our favorite picks.
45 Stocking Stuffers For Adults, Because We Deserve a Little Fun, Too
Stocking stuffers aren't just for kids; this year you can treat the adults in your life, too. Whether you're shopping for a sibling, SO, or parent, we searched the internet and found a plethora of both useful and funny little presents they'll get a kick out of. From sarcastic desk plaques to wine openers and even a swearing version of Mad Libs, you won't be disappointed. Keep scrolling to shop our top picks of the year.
Still Looking For the Perfect Gift? It Doesn't Get Any Easier Than This DIY Sharpie Mug
Do you have a plain, boring mug that needs a bit of spicing up? Personalize your cups and mugs by drawing on them! You can use them to add personality to your home or even give them as gifts to your loved ones. Here's how to start:
- Buy some white cups or mugs. You can find them in superstores, thrift stores, dollar stores, and online.
- Pick a Sharpie. For long-lasting results, choose oil-based Sharpie paint markers ($32 for 15). Regular Sharpie ink can come off even after baking. Pick a color to use on your mug. You can stay simple and choose one color, or be more ambitious and use multiple. If you're sticking to one color, then black is usually a good choice, given its striking contrast to the white background of the mug.
- Start drawing. Decide what you want to put on the cup, and maybe practice drawing it on a piece of paper before drawing on the mug. Pick a meaningful quote or a cute graphic to decorate the mug with, and get inspired by mugs being sold on Etsy or by clicking through the more than 80 examples we've shared here from Instagram!
- Dry it out. Let your mug dry for a few hours or overnight before placing it into the oven. You can also draw over it again if you'd like to make sure the pattern doesn't come off in the wash. If you draw over it again, be sure to leave it out to dry again before baking.
- Bake it. Bake the mug in the oven for 30 minutes at 350°F. Remember to place the mug in the oven before it heats up and leave it in until the oven cools completely so there won't be any cracks. You can choose to bake the mugs twice to really set in the Sharpie drawings.
- Care and wash. Hand-wash the mug gently instead of throwing it in the dishwasher, as a machine washer may ruin the design.
Some Sharpie mug DIYers may advise you to spray the mug with acrylic sealing spray to make sure the Sharpie etchings doesn't rub off. I personally didn't want to do that because the spray can be toxic. However, if you decide to go that route, be sure to avoid spraying near the top and on the inside of the mug. You can cover those areas with masking tape to protect them before you spray.
Keep reading to see more cute, creative, funny, and sentimental DIY mug examples for design inspiration!
- Additional reporting by Tara Block
50+ Gifts So Thoughtful, No One Will Ever Realize You Ordered Them Last-Minute
If you procrastinated on your holiday shopping this year, not to worry. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Shopbop, and Nordstrom are here to save your sanity. They're all providing various shipping options to make sure that your presents will arrive just in the nick of time. To make it even easier for you, we shopped and curated over 50 of its best picks of the year. Don't drag your feet because Christmas is closer than you think. Hurry and shop ahead.
Amazon Is Selling Weighted Blankets For Dogs, Because They Get Anxiety, Too
Whether you have a senior dog or rescue puppy at home, chances are you've had to deal with their emotional triggers at some point. Pet behavior varies, and anything can set them off - a loud and unexpected noise, separation anxiety, or changes in everyday life. This holiday season, if you'll be taking your pup on a long road trip or having them stay elsewhere while you travel, try soothing their nerves with a Canine Coddler ($80).
It's a weighted blanket designed specifically for dogs. It applies pressure to the animal in the same way the blankets do for adults. Check it out ahead!
Make the Great Outdoors Even Better With These Gifts For Outdoorsmen
Every wilderness man deserves nothing but the best when it comes to outdoor essentials. The great outdoors requires tools that are durable, strong, and ultimately fit for survival - and these finds are all that and more.
Thanks to these great gifts, the outdoorsy guy on your holiday list (you know, the one who prefers tents to hotels and adventure to Netflix) will enjoy Mother Nature more than he already does.
- Additional reporting by Laurel Niedospial
Ho-Ho-HOMG! People Are Dressing Their Dogs as Santa, and Why Didn't I Think of This?
The sky is the limit when it comes to getting your pets ready for the holidays. You can indulge the entire family and get everyone matching pajamas, you can opt for a look more regal and get the dog festive sweaters, or you can do what dog parents on Instagram are doing and dress them up as Santa. Decked out in the fundamental red hat, these 16 owners have given us the greatest gift of all: the #SantaDog.
39 Best Gifts For Introverts That Are Under $50
If shopping for the thriving introvert in your life is giving you anxiety, you've come to the right place. Understandably, it can sometimes be puzzling to try to figure out what's going on in the mind of an introvert (at least, on a larger scale).
We've rounded up 39 gifts any introvert would be internally ecstatic to unwrap. Each gift is tailored toward their naturally pensive dispositions - these are adorable items that'll help them recharge after long days of social interaction, challenge their minds in conducive ways, or simply praise them for being the awesome people that they are! These gifts will be a hit with them and easy on your bank account. See for yourself!
- Additional reporting by Hilary White
Make Your Holidays Even Brighter With These 60+ Christmas Candles - You'll Want Them All!
What's better than the smell of freshly baked cookies, crisp pine needles, and warm, roasted chestnuts? All of those combined into a Christmas candle, that's what. This holiday season, cozy up with these fun and festive candles. With rich, seasonal scents in mantel-worthy vessels, these candles make Christmas time even cozier.
This App Lets You Send Cards Starring Your Dog Because No One Wants a Holiday Card of Just You
When did we collectively decide to send out family cards during the holidays? Sure, they're cute and all, but not nearly as adorable as the thought of sending out an animated card featuring your puppers. Whether you want to put a phony mustache or antlers on them, the new app Say BARK!, brought to you by the team behind BarkBox, lets you create and share the funniest animated cards imaginable, featuring your dog.
Take their picture, play with the filters, record a message, and send it off to your contacts. See it in action below.
25 Incredible Gifts on Amazon - For $25 or Less
Shopping on a budget during the holidays can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. We looked to Amazon because the retailer carries just about everything you could ever dream of and tons of incredible finds at affordable prices. We did the hard work and curated a list of its 25 hottest gifts that cost $25 or less. The best part: you can skip crowded store shopping because it's delivered right to your door. Take a look at our top picks.
Hands Down, These Are the 50 Coolest Stocking Stuffers of 2018
This year, don't just fill your loved one's stockings with the same old chocolates: instead, surprise them by going above and beyond with unique and useful tiny presents. We searched the internet and came up with 50 hot picks they'll be sure to love. From watches to miniature video games and a handful of fun novelty gifts, you'll be able to shop for everyone on your list. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
mercredi 19 décembre 2018
1 Sweet Dog Had the Best Response to Her Mom Asking Her to "Go Check" on the Baby
My little helper😩♥️ pic.twitter.com/Vi1MiFJDX2
- AllyGuerrero⚓️💋 (@AllisonJoGuerr1) December 7, 2018
Although bringing a child into the world is one of the hardest things a woman will experience, new mom Ally Guerrero has an extra set of paws to help her out from time to time. In a sweet video she shared on Twitter, Ally asks her pup to go into her daughter Maggie's bedroom to check on her while she naps. Despite clearly not wanting to rise from her cozy bed at first, the pup does a quick stretch before walking down the hall. To confirm that her trusty doggo actually peeked in on the baby, Ally consulted her baby monitor to be sure. So far, the video has racked up a massive 3.2 million views and 267,000 likes on Twitter, and we can't say we're surprised.
Enough With Your Elf: This Woman Puts Her Dog on the Shelf, and She Deserves a Gold Medal
Just when you thought you'd seen it all with respect to the very demanding (but rewarding?) annual Elf on the Shelf tradition, a creative southeast Missouri woman upped the ante. Dog owner Linda Kush has ditched the elves entirely and instead, been dressing up her sweet Vizsla and Weimaraner in the decorative costumes. She posts fairly regularly on Instagram, and the images are too darn adorable. This is one habit we definitely want to copy.
50 Genius Gifts For Men on Amazon - Under $50
Treating the guy in your life to the perfect present isn't always easy, especially if you're shopping on a budget. This year, you don't have to worry, because we turned to Amazon and curated a list of the 50 best gifts for him that you can find for under $50. From hilarious socks to wine-themed picks and even a toilet night light (because who doesn't need that?), all our picks are so affordable, maybe you can get him two things. Keep reading to shop our favorite finds.
Squeeze in One of These Quick Morning Workouts Before the Holiday Madness Starts
Want to fit a morning sweat sesh in before the madness of your holiday to-do list takes over all your free time? Celebrate the season with some stress-relieving self-care in the form of sweat with these superquick morning workouts. From yoga to strength training, we've got you covered.
I Replaced My Morning Coffee With a Ginger Shot Years Ago, and It Seriously Changed My Life
To say I was a kid who loved coffee would be an understatement. I was obsessed with it. During the summers I ordered Frappuccinos with loads of whipped cream on top. In the wintertime, it was Dunkaccinos from Dunkin Donuts, the hot chocolate-coffee hybrid that tasted like it was straight out of a dream. When other tweens were drinking soda and chocolate milk during lunchtime, I somehow managed to get my hands on the chilled "to-go" beverages from Starbucks - you know the ones that came in the glass bottle? Yes, I was hooked.
However, all of this changed during college. It was just around the time that I graduated from Mocha Frappuccino to Caramel Macchiato with soy milk that I started feeling coffee's negative effects. The caffeine made me jittery, anxious, and unfocused - symptoms that only intensified if I drank it on an empty stomach. I knew I needed to make a change and quick.
One day while walking around Whole Foods in a cranky, caffeinated haze, I came across a glass case full of ginger shots. I decided on a whim that this is what I would replace my coffee with, and I've never looked back. Here are all the ways it improved my health and my life.
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