Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
vendredi 21 décembre 2018
If You Haven't Heard, 2019 Is the Year We'll All Be Drinking Matcha
Matcha has gone mainstream, and as an everyday consumer, I couldn't be more thrilled. Matcha is essentially a much more concentrated form of green tea, aka it's got a lot more caffeine per cup. The taste is a little earthy, but paired with your favorite milk, it's seriously delicious; so good, in fact, that I don't like to start my morning without it. But 2019 is the year that matcha goes from "that green drink" to a staple in every health-conscious person's pantry, and it's not just for drinking. Just keep reading to shop our favorite matcha products that will have keep calm and energized well into 2019.
I Took a Dance Class With the Rockettes, and Incredibly, It Taught Me to Be More Confident
I'm not a dancer by any means. I performed all four years in my high school's musicals, but it was clear that I wasn't cast for my moves. However, one of my fellow cast members and friends was a lifelong dancer who went on to become a Radio City Rockette on the national tour. So when I got the chance to take a class with the Rockettes, I figured I owed it to her to step up to the challenge.
But there's another piece of the puzzle you should know: Ciara was also taking the class. That's right, the "Level Up" and "One, Two Step" singer would learn the troupe's famous eye-high kicks right alongside us, in celebration of Pandora's Exclusive Holiday Charm and Ornament Gift Set inspired by the Rockettes. Both Ciara and the Rockettes have partnered with the jewelry brand before, but clearly this was no ordinary launch party.
I arrived at the executive entrance of Radio City Music Hall with a group of editors and writers that I could tell were just as eager (and maybe a bit anxious) to get started. We were taken to a dance practice room, where I took a spot right up front behind the six Rockettes who would serve as our instructors and a few feet to the right of Ciara. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I'd be damned if I didn't at least try to get the best seat (or, in this case, kick line spot) in the crowd.
The Rockettes had their hair slicked back in their signature French twist and bright red lipstick swiped on. They sported black Radio City Rockettes tank tops, black leggings, and dance shoes. Ciara also followed the all-black attire along with sky-high black booties. I'm not sure if I was more excited to learn the dance or see Ciara working it in pencil-thin heels.
We jumped right into a routine from this year's Christmas Spectacular. For the first eight counts, we stood in the classic Rockette bevel pose, which was certainly my speed. Then we swiftly raised our right arms straight up - also my speed. So far so good, right? The dance was taught pretty quickly, only running through a new step a couple times before adding it the counts we had already learned. The moves were precise - right arm here, left arm there, put your weight on the front of your foot - and ended with the Rockettes' famous eye-high kicks. I was surprised how easy it was to remember the moves. I have to give myself some props, I wasn't doing half bad.
The nerves I had coming into the class quickly dissipated - the Rockettes were as stunning and professional as I imagined, but they couldn't have been nicer or more encouraging. Even Ciara asked questions during the class, a reminder that even a seasoned performer doesn't dance perfectly out of the gate. Did I mess up a couple of times? Of course. But then I remembered what the Rockettes told us from the very beginning: to just have fun and smile through it.
This class was just a small glimpse into their world, and it's hard to imagine just how many dances they have to remember. There are 80 Rockettes in all, 40 in each cast, with 36 onstage during a show. One show includes more than 160 kicks, and with up to four shows a day, that number quickly climbs to 650. Talk about stamina.
I'd be lying if I said that my thighs weren't hurting a day or two after the class. Never underestimate the muscles you use even for just a few dozen kicks. I probably won't become the first 5'4" Rockette, but I had one hell of a time pretending.
Start 2019 Fresh With These 10 Bestselling Sneakers on Amazon
There's no better feeling than starting off the new year with a fresh pair of kicks. You don't have to drop a ton of cash on the perfect pair, either, because it's easier than ever to find high-quality brands at affordable price points. We searched on Amazon because the online retailer has so much to choose from. We found everything from Adidas to Nike and New Balance. Shop these top picks, starting at just $30.
Beachbody Dietitian Says to Eat These 2 Foods at Every Meal to Control Hunger and Lose Weight
Do you ever notice that after eating a big meal, you feel starving soon after? It can actually have a lot to do with what foods you eat. We asked registered dietitian and co-creator of Beachbody's 2B Mindset nutrition program, Ilana Muhlstein, MS, RDN, to share the best foods to eat that will make you feel less hungry.
Turns out, Mom was right: vegetables are key. "They are high in volume and weight, and fill up our stomachs, which helps us register the feeling of fullness," Ilana said. When you're hungry and sit down to eat a meal, get at least five to six bites of veggies in first. Some great choices are minestrone soup, cauliflower fried rice, baby carrots and guacamole, or roasted broccoli. It doesn't matter how it was prepared, but Ilana said that vegetables are the food group you want to be filling up on most often.
Another must for curbing hunger and helping you stay fuller longer is protein. "If you just have an apple or oatmeal for breakfast, you may feel hungry just an hour or two later. You may feel the same if you only have pasta for dinner," Ilana said. Carbs are great for giving you energy, but they won't curb your hunger the way protein does. So, have some eggs or a protein shake with your oatmeal, and add some beans or meatballs to your tomato sauce if you're having spaghetti.
Incorporating both veggies and protein into every meal and snack is a great way to keep hunger at bay. Try this for every meal for five days and see how you feel. You'll be amazed how changing what you eat, not how much, can affect your level of satiety, which can prevent cravings and mindless noshing.
100 Genius Gifts So Good, You'll Never Guess They Cost Under $100
If you're on a time crunch this year, that doesn't mean you need to sacrifice on getting your loved ones impressive gifts. We went on a mission to hunt down the best presents on the internet. Ahead, you'll find 100 seriously good presents you might be tempted to keep for yourself. The best part: they're all under $100. So what are you waiting for? Shop our favorites before they're gone.
These Are the Gifts We Actually Want This Season
We're here to help you cut through the holiday clutter and find the absolute best presents Walmart has to offer. Think fun games, household essentials, and lots of coffee. Need some gifting inspiration? Look no further.
Want to Know About 2019's Coolest Products? Spoiler Alert: They're All on Amazon
If you're the person who's out here making the trends, this is for you. Let all your friends know what's going to be buzzing in 2019; these products are cool, current, and actually practical. From the latest in fitness trackers to smart home technology and gadgets galore, this is what we're going to be crushing on in 2019.
These 18 Amazon Gifts Are Under $25, but They're So Cool, You'll Think We're Lying
Getting a brilliant gift doesn't mean you have to save money for months in advance. All you have to do is shop smart. Luckily, we're experts in that category, so we sifted through Amazon to find you the coolest options under $25. Take a look and purchase them soon; the holidays are closing in on us!
Skip the Crowds: Here Are 10 Alternative Destinations to Visit in 2019
We can all agree it's hard to pass up a trip to popular cities like Paris or Rome, but sometimes the best trips come from traveling off the beaten path. From a small fishing town in Croatia to a ski village in the Japanese Alps, we've rounded up 10 alternative destinations to add to your 2019 travel bucket list. In the New Year, ditch your go-to spots and book a trip to somewhere completely new.
11 Unbelievably Chic Home Decor Items You'll Never Guess Cost Under $50 on Amazon
If you feel like your home could use a little pick-me-up this new year, but you're on a budget, we have the perfect solution for you. Instead of overspending on a total revamp, try sprucing up your space with a couple cute home decor items from Amazon. We scoured its site and uncovered its most stylish pieces that cost less than $50. The best part: they'll be delivered right to your door. Keep reading to shop our favorite finds.
Looking For New Luggage? Shop These 10 Affordable Suitcases at Kohl's
Hunting for new luggage is never easy. There are so many brands and options to choose from, not to mention it can cost a fortune. To make your life easier, we shopped at Kohl's, because the retailer carries a ton of affordable options from great names like Samsonite and Delsey. Ahead, you'll find our 10 top picks we think are totally worth it. Take a look.
A Giant Rosé Pillow Exists, and My Only Hesitation Is That I'll Spill Actual Rosé on It
You know how organizational guru Marie Kondo advises people to only hang onto items that resoundingly "spark joy?" Well, here's something that will spark plenty of joy: an oversize velvet pillow in the shape of a bottle of Rosé.
Available at Urban Outfitters for $69, the pillow is approximately the size of a small child with cute embroidery on the front. While the pillow seems more indulgent than practical, it - nevermind, it is indeed a purely indulgent home decor purchase. Enjoy it! Just be sure not to spill actual Rosé on it as you live your best lounge life. (But hey, it happens.)
These New York City Police Officers Did the Absolute Most to Save a Trapped Kitten
#NYPD rescued this #kitten trapped in the undercarriage of this vehicle. Not a good place for a #catnap, especially when we are experiencing #CodeBlue. With the help of @NYPDSchools, @NYPDSpecialops & 3️⃣2️⃣Pct Patrol this kitten 🐱 is safe in a #Harlem #animalrescue #shelter. pic.twitter.com/1UWvaODPLr
- NYPD 32nd Precinct (@NYPD32Pct) December 18, 2018
One tiny tuxedo kitten got the ride of a lifetime after getting stuck in the undercarriage of a car. The driver was cruising down the Jackie Robinson Parkway in New York City when he spotted the animal and stopped to avoid hitting it. But after getting out of the vehicle, the little four-legged kitty was out of sight.
"He stopped to avoid running the animal over - but when he looked around, she was nowhere to be found," reported The New York Post. "The driver continued his trip to West 135th Street and 7th Avenue in Harlem - about 18 miles away - completely unaware that the terrified kitten was clinging to the undercarriage of the vehicle the entire way."
Eventually, the driver heard the meows and immediately pulled over and flagged down an officer for help. Moments later, seven members of the 32nd Precinct showed up with a car jack to save the day. Once the furball was safe and sound, the officers posted the news to their Twitter account.
"NYPD rescued this kitten trapped in the undercarriage of this vehicle," read the caption. "Not a good place for a catnap, especially when we are experiencing code blue. With the help of NYPD schools, NYPD special ops & 32 Precinct Patrol, this kitten is safe in a Harlem animal rescue shelter."
Hopefully, the sweet little kitty is adopted soon!
26 Last-Minute Gifts That Will Arrive Before Christmas - All Under $50
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!
Let's Face It, January Is a Tough Month - Here's How I Get Through It
After a whirlwind of holiday parties and family get-togethers, the month of January can feel a bit anticlimactic. Not to mention cold and dark if you live in the Northeast like I do. In addition to seasonal affective disorder plaguing many people, the "January Blues" manifests itself as sadness or depression-like symptoms after the holiday season. So, how do you keep yourself motivated and positive during the month of January? I've compiled my top 10 tips to help you navigate and even look forward to the beginning of the year!
The 35 Best Gifts on Amazon For 2019
It's no secret that Amazon is the easiest and quickest place to pick up gifts. Whether you're shopping for someone's birthday, housewarming party, or just because, we made it even easier by curating its best presents of the year. From record players to fitness trackers and even cheese boards, all you have to do is click "buy" and these picks will be delivered right to your door. Beware, though: you might end up wanting a few things for yourself. Keep reading to shop our favorites ahead.
The 45 Coolest Gifts You Can Buy For Every Guy in Your Life
Instead of giving the guy in your life just another gift card this holiday, go above and beyond by treating him to something extraspecial. To make your life easier, we scoured the internet for the absolute coolest gadgets and gifts out there, so all you have to do is shop. From gradient puzzles to sleek suitcases and even a glass version of Monopoly, you might end up wanting a few for yourself. Take a look.
35 Stocking Stuffers For Your Boyfriend So Good, You Might Just Have to Steal Them
Not exactly sure what to get your boyfriend this year? Instead of treating him to one big thing, try picking him up a few tiny presents he'll appreciate. You don't have to waste your time shopping either, because we did the hard part for you. Ahead, you'll find 35 top picks for every type of guy out there. From socks to games and cozy slippers, some of these are so good, you might end up stealing them for yourself. Take a look.
If You're Always Cold, These 21 Gifts Will Help You Survive the Season
There are two kinds of people in this world: people who are always cold, and everyone else. If you fall into the former category, you know the struggle Winter can bring. Hand warmers and extra thick socks are a nonnegotiable, and beanies aren't just a fashion statement, they're essential to survival. This season, conquer the cold with these 21 cozy products - you can thank us later.
15 Instant Pot Dump Dinners That Practically Make Themselves
Love slow cookers but don't necessarily love the, well, slow part? Set your sights on the Instant Pot, a pressure cooker that has all the convenience of a slow cooker but gets things done in a fraction of the time. If that sounds good to you, and you like meals that are fast, delicious, and low on the effort scale, you'll absolutely adore these dump dinners. And when it's time for something sweet, opt for a dump cake both you and the kids will love!
Quick - Copy This Mom’s Easy Target Hack For Last-Minute Teacher Gifts
We've noticed an increasing trend on the internet over the last few days, and it's a collective (borderline) freak-out about the teachers. "What do we get the teachers" is being echoed throughout homes across the country. If you've completely run out of time and are leaning toward getting your child's teacher a gift card, copy one creative mom's easy hack. After a quick Target run, Lisa Mueller came up this super fast DIY. She added antlers to the top of already festive trail mix bags, then taped a gift card to the back. Simple and sweet.
Chrissy Teigen Is a Total Sagittarius Mom - See 11 Other Moms Repping Their Zodiac Signs
As someone who once believed that zodiac signs were total BS, it didn't take long for me to realize that my being stubborn was actually a result of being a Pisces (touché, astrology). Although not everyone is a perfect match to the sign they're born into, it's hard to deny that most people do loosely fit into their given horoscope, and not many others. And those signs can say a lot about who we are as individuals, friends, lovers, and parents.
For the following celebrities, various aspects of their astrological signs appear to have influenced the parents we know them to be based on stories about their kids, what we see on social media, and how they outwardly portray themselves as moms. Read ahead to see how each celebrity mom parents based on her zodiac sign - we promise, no matter how you feel about horoscopes, most of these are scary accurate.
With These 15 Ugly Christmas Sweaters, You'll Be the Star of Your Holiday Party
Ugly Christmas sweaters are a polarizing subject: you either love them or hate them. Either way, there's a pretty high chance you'll be invited to at least one this holiday season. With that in mind, our favorite sweaters are always the funny ones, and we found 15 that'll definitely make you smile. If you've got to attend, get playful with your pick, and keep reading to shop our faves!
Why Moms Shouldn't Feel Guilty About Giving Their Babies Formula
When it came time to give my daughter infant formula, the thought made me panic. Rationally, I knew I had to stop nursing for valid reasons and was happy I had made it six months exclusively breastfeeding. But even the thought of researching formula made me cringe.
I realized that while I got a lot of advice about breastfeeding, no one in my childbirth classes or mothers groups seemed to talk about formula. It's true that historically, commercial formula has been overmarketed to parents when breast milk is best. But the correction toward promoting breastfeeding had left me scared and uninformed about how to start feeding my child when I could no longer produce her food myself.
"It's a very personal decision for a woman to decide to switch to formula or decide to use formula and breastfeed," explained Diane Wilson, director of nutrition services for Nature's One, which sells an organic baby formula. Wilson said she receives comments from mothers who have had breast reduction surgery or are adoptive parents. Some other reasons mothers decide to supplement or go to exclusively formula? Medication, low milk supply, work situations, a desire to conceive again, or simply because they decide breastfeeding isn't for them.
"You can count on formula to make sure your baby grows and thrives."
Wilson believes parents in these situation shouldn't feel guilty. "Infant formula is one of the most highly regulated foods in the world. The manufacturing specifications, the nutrient composition, the amount of these nutrients - everything is extensively researched, and ingredients that go into formula have to show that they are completely safe and appropriate and in the proper amount," she explained. Wilson pointed out that in certain situations, formula is a necessity, and when that's the case you can feel assured that it's a safe, healthy alternative. "Breast milk will never be duplicated, at least in my lifetime," Wilson said, "but you can count on formula to make sure your baby grows and thrives."
Dr. Cristina Casas, a pediatrician in San Francisco, agreed that formula is safe for infants, and in fact she does not recommend a specific one to patients since she believes all are sufficiently regulated. "I tell parents not to be stressed about introducing formula. Although we recommend giving breast milk if possible, formula is a great alternative," she told me.
While it's assuring to know that all formulas are held to high standards, I did find various pros and cons for each when I finally sat down to research them. Let's look at a few of the formulas that stood out and see how they compare to each other. I focused on cow's milk formula. In rare situations, a doctor may recommend soy formula, which is vegan, or other specialized formulas for babies who are premature or at risk for allergies. (You can read more about what the American Academy of Pediatrics has said about those options here). It's always a good idea to talk to your health care provider when making an important decision like this, but to get you started, read on.
This Movie May Be Considered a Christmas Classic, but I Refuse to Let My Kids Watch It
I'm all for letting my children watch classic Christmas movies. Elf, A Christmas Story, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas? Absolutely. But there is one beloved but still horrifically scary movie that I have no shame in hiding from my kids at all costs: Gremlins.
As a 37-year-old mother of two, I'm still scarred from watching that movie as a child. My three older brothers sat me down before Christmas one year, and we all watched it together. They roared with laughter while the tiny (and possessed) Gremlins took over the entire city. Me? I sat petrified, hiding behind a blanket I desperately clutched to my chin. And of course, my brothers thought that was even more hilarious - their cute little sister scared of a cuddly Gremlin.
If it horrified me - a pretty easygoing child - I know it will scare the hell out of them.
That Christmas (after many evenings full of nightmares), I woke up excited to sneak downstairs to see what Santa had brought me. And what did my mother place into my red stocking? A gremlin! Those beady little eyes were the first thing I noticed when I walked downstairs on Christmas morning. My brothers loved torturing me with that stuffed animal for months after that.
Because of all this, I will not expose my children to that movie. We all remember the plot, right? Billy receives Gizmo, a mogwai, for a Christmas present from his father. Only he allows his buddy to get Gizmo wet, which creates many evil spawns to take over the city. From there, havoc unleashes and kills the Christmas joy out of everyone. You couldn't pay me to share that with my children. My kids are sensitive, and sometimes the most harmless of movies can give them nightmares. So if Gremlins horrified me - a pretty easygoing child - I know it will scare the hell out of them.
Some may argue that I'm depriving my kids of some innocent and nostalgic Christmas joy by not letting them watch this classic movie. "It's just a movie! And it's rated PG! They'll be fine," you might say. But I beg to differ. If I can control one thing this Christmas, it will be that Gremlins do not show up in the dreams of my sleeping children. Because since they still pop up in mine sometimes, I know there is nothing more petrifying than that.
These New York City Police Officers Did the Absolute Most to Save a Trapped Kitten
#NYPD rescued this #kitten trapped in the undercarriage of this vehicle. Not a good place for a #catnap, especially when we are experiencing #CodeBlue. With the help of @NYPDSchools, @NYPDSpecialops & 3️⃣2️⃣Pct Patrol this kitten 🐱 is safe in a #Harlem #animalrescue #shelter. pic.twitter.com/1UWvaODPLr
- NYPD 32nd Precinct (@NYPD32Pct) December 18, 2018
One tiny tuxedo kitten got the ride of a lifetime after getting stuck in the undercarriage of a car. The driver was cruising down the Jackie Robinson Parkway in New York City when he spotted the animal and stopped to avoid hitting it. But after getting out of the vehicle, the little four-legged kitty was out of sight.
"He stopped to avoid running the animal over - but when he looked around, she was nowhere to be found," reported The New York Post. "The driver continued his trip to West 135th Street and 7th Avenue in Harlem - about 18 miles away - completely unaware that the terrified kitten was clinging to the undercarriage of the vehicle the entire way."
Eventually, the driver heard the meows and immediately pulled over and flagged down an officer for help. Moments later, seven members of the 32nd Precinct showed up with a car jack to save the day. Once the furball was safe and sound, the officers posted the news to their Twitter account.
"NYPD rescued this kitten trapped in the undercarriage of this vehicle," read the caption. "Not a good place for a catnap, especially when we are experiencing code blue. With the help of NYPD schools, NYPD special ops & 32 Precinct Patrol, this kitten is safe in a Harlem animal rescue shelter."
Hopefully, the sweet little kitty is adopted soon!
My Biggest Parenting Tip For Ensuring Your Child's Safety: A Family Code Word
When it comes to family, keeping secrets is usually frowned upon. You want your kids to be open and honest with you and feel comfortable coming to you with anything they might be going through. But when it comes to secrets you're all in on together, that's when it's usually OK (if not necessary). One such secret is a family code word.
When I was in middle school, my mother informed my younger sister and me that we should establish a family code word. No one but my family would know about our special word - we couldn't tell our best friends or teachers - and we were to keep it that way. So, my sister and I picked our word and set it to memory.
My mom gave strict instructions that this special word was to be used only in emergency situations. For example, if a stranger asked me to get in their car and said something along the lines of, "Your mom is going to be late. She sent me to pick you up," I could ask them to give me the code word for proof. If they couldn't tell me the word, I knew they were lying. Or if someone knocked on the door when I was home alone and pretended to be a family friend, I would ask them the code word. If they didn't know it, I wouldn't open the door. We were now a family who harbored true secrets.
Today, despite how much time has passed and how busy our lives are, my sister and I still remember our secret code word. Luckily, we never had to use it, but this is the kind of family secret I want to pass on to my 5-year-old. It's such a simple thing that can help protect him.
With the start of kindergarten this year, my husband and I have begun talking to our son about what to do should he be approached by strangers, and a family code word will be a part of this plan for him. We'll be clear with him on how this works, and hopefully this secret word will help him feel a sense of safety in a world where "stranger danger" can feel all too overwhelming. I know it did for me.
I'm not a huge fan of secrets in general, but this is one I'm happy to hand down to my son. As a mom, I'm ready to give my kid all the tools I can to help keep him safe and secure, because I doubt making him stay home glued to my hip for the rest of my life is an option (is it?). This is why a family code word is definitely a family secret worth keeping.
1 Mom Sent Out a "Real" Christmas Card This Year, and I'm Actually Obsessed With It
Ashlie LeGrand, a mom of four and professional photographer, knows that getting the perfect shot of her kids is a must for the annual Christmas card. However, after taking 237 pictures in the hopes of capturing the perfect photo to no avail, Ashlie threw in the towel and went with the next best option: a hilarious blooper. And if we can be completely frank, the result is better than we ever imagined.
"My aunt had sent them all adorable matching pajamas, so we headed to my studio in Minneapolis to snap some quick shots," Ashlie told POPSUGAR. "By quick, I mean in between hockey, dance, dinner, and drama. In my head, I pictured this amazing card of my kids giggling, smiling, and even getting along - ha! However, that reality just wasn't meant to be."
After a few hours of hard work, Ashlie knew she had to make a decision, and the pickings were incredibly slim. "I had one OK one and 236 similar ones that showed how the shoot really went," said the mom. "So I thought, 'My friends and family already know how chaotic my life is! This card shouldn't come as a surprise. We're keeping it real for Christmas!'"
The icing on the cake? Ashlie's hilarious Christmas Vacation-inspired caption, which reads: "Jolliest bunch of a**holes this side of the nuthouse." It's PERFECTION!
8 Fun Treats Your Kids Can Leave For Santa on Christmas Eve
When we think of Christmas traditions from our childhood, one of the most memorable ones was leaving treats for Santa on Christmas Eve. It's one of the ways we keep the magic of Santa and the holiday season alive for children and get them excited for all the presents he'll bring. You can go classic by following the cookies-and-milk route, or you may want to switch it up for your kids - we've heard Santa might enjoy a few other treats on Christmas Eve. Try some of these fun options ahead to get ready for the big guy's arrival.
Steal These 2018 Elf on the Shelf Ideas to Get You Through the Rest of December
Coming up with enough Elf on the Shelf setup ideas to get your family through more than three weeks of December can become near torture if you're not feeling up to crafting elaborate scenes for the elf, let alone setting an alarm to move the damn thing at all. Although there are definitely ways to keep Elf on the Shelf simple, we're suckers for the creative and hilarious setups we find on Instagram.
Take a peek at some of our favorite setups from 2018 (so far), and maybe, just maybe, get a bit of inspiration for what to do with your kids' elf tonight (maybe it'll be doing yoga?).
My Parents Were So Strict Growing Up, and It Completely Backfired
Parenting is the hardest gig around. It comes with no road map, instructions, or other tools to help you in not screwing up your children. We try our hardest, but sometimes that just isn't enough. Some kids are a little tougher to manage than others. How do I know that, besides being a mom now myself? Because I was one of those kids. And while my parents did their best to tame me with strict rules, it ended up backfiring in a big way.
I spent most of my high school years grounded. So, when I was finally out of the house, I couldn't wait to let loose.
Growing up, my mom and dad needed to know my every move. I have three older brothers, so they knew all of my tricks before I even attempted to play them. To help prevent any unruly behavior, they tried to enforce endless rules on a daily basis. I always had the earliest curfew, which my friends hated because that meant they had to leave the party to drive me home. If my parents actually allowed me to go to a boy's house, they had to call every single time and speak to their parents (talk about embarrassing). And I was never, ever allowed to spend the night at a friend's house. I couldn't pull the "I'm sleeping at so-and-so's house" just so I could stay out all night. My parents knew better. They were always a few steps ahead.
But even with all of those strict rules, I always found ways around them. Their rules only made me want to rebel more. I earned two MIPs (minor in possessions) by age 16 because I got caught drinking. I got caught sneaking out. I got caught smoking. I got caught skipping school. I engaged in a lot of bad behavior, and this was all before I even left for college. I spent most of my high school years grounded. So, when I was finally out of the house, I couldn't wait to let loose.
Somehow, I still managed to keep my grades up throughout my time in school and got into a few colleges. When I finally picked one and showed up to my freshman dorm with all of my suitcases, I. went. crazy. Without my parents' constant rules, I was finally free. I was always the last to go to sleep, which meant getting to class the next morning was often a no-go. As a result, my grades plummeted, and in one semester, I managed to be on both social and academic probation. But with the love and support of my parents, I managed to get back on track. They didn't give up on me, and today I get in a lot less trouble - finally.
Now that I'm a mother myself, I often think back to my parents' strict rules. I'm not exactly sure how I'll choose to parent my own children once they hit those unruly teenage years, but I know it will look a little different than my upbringing. Strict parenting didn't work on me. I often felt stifled, and when I finally did break free, I didn't have the tools to handle being on my own. If anything, having so many rules made me more of a rule-breaker. I think if my parents had given me rules while also trusting me and giving me a little more freedom as I got older, I wouldn't have gotten into so much trouble. But I know it's easy to say that now. And I know they did the best they could.
Since I still have a few years to figure out my own strategies, one thing I do know is I'll always love my kids unconditionally, just like my parents did for me.
1 Mom Created Wrapping Paper With "Brown Santa" on It, and We'll Take a Million Rolls
Jackie Rodgers a mom from Apex, NC, was eager to celebrate Christmas with her son Eli three years ago. After compiling all his gifts, Jackie started to wrap them up, only to run into one problem: there were no options with a brown Santa.
And it's not like Jackie only checked one or two stores in North Carolina. She had some of her sorority sisters from Detroit, Atlanta, and Chicago search their local stores to no avail. After finally looking online and coming up empty-handed, the 35-year-old mom knew she needed to do something about it and created Greentop Gifts, a wrapping paper company featuring a brown Santa she called "Clarence Claus" after her father.
"I wanted him to look magical. I wanted him to be the perfect chocolate brown and look plump and jolly, and he definitely does. I like the look of his eyes; he looks happy and whimsical."
Jackie believes children seeing a piece of themselves in the real world is critical. "It's important for children to see images that look like them and reflect them," Jackie told People. "If a kid has glasses, it's important for them to see images of kids wearing glasses."
With help from her husband Shaun, the pair got to work tracking down an illustrator to make Jackie's dream a reality. "I wanted him to appeal to children and adults," said Jackie. "I wanted him to look magical. I wanted him to be the perfect chocolate brown, and look plump and jolly, and he definitely does. I like the look of his eyes; he looks happy and whimsical."
Unsurprisingly, Greentop Gifts has taken off this holiday season. In fact, the brand is doing so well Jackie had to hire a fulfillment company. "We filled orders out of the garage until Black Friday," Jackie said, adding that, "It's a good problem to have."
According to the fan mail she's received, parents are grateful for her work. "I read the letters and think, 'Oh, we're doing the right thing.'" Now, Jackie is hoping to expand Greentop Gifts by including paper for graduations, birthdays, and other milestones. Scroll through to get a look at the inclusive paper.
Thanks, The Bachelor, For Making Me Explain to My Kids What a Virgin Is
I'm not ashamed to admit that I let my young daughters, ages 10, 8, and 5, watch The Bachelor with me. Why? Because in a sometimes scary world with bullying and school violence, it's a fun guilty pleasure that we can indulge in together (and that we also don't take too seriously).
Half the time they're talking over the show anyway, but when my girls are paying attention, I feel like they get it. They'll ask, "Why is that girl crying over a guy she just met?" Or, "Why are her boobs hanging out of her dress?" Their funny comments prove that The Bachelor can be instructional for young girls by sometimes showing them what not to do.
ABC is seriously pushing this whole virgin angle, [which is] basically forcing me to explain to my girls what the word "virgin" means.
We were all excited when Colton Underwood was picked to be the next bachelor, because, let's face it, he's easy on the eyes, whether you're in grade school or you're a stay-at-home mom in your 30s like me. But then the promos started, and ABC is seriously pushing this whole virgin angle (have you seen the 40-Year-Old Virgin poster?!) - and now I'm a little steamed at the show for pretty much forcing me to explain to my girls what the word "virgin" means.
Last season when Colton was a contestant on The Bachelorette vying for Becca Kufrin's heart, of course he mentioned about 82 times that he's a virgin. My girls asked me then, and I somehow managed to change the subject. When they asked again during one of our viewing parties, I told them it's when you've never kissed someone. But then this Summer on Bachelor in Paradise, the girls saw Colton kiss Tia, so my sneaky explanation went straight out the window. I thought, "OK, maybe the virgin storyline will be old when Colton's season starts." Not! The show hasn't even started (I still can't wait for January), and already Colton's viginity is pretty much all that's being discussed. My girls haven't seen a promo for the season yet, but I'm kinda afraid they will soon.
This leaves me in a quandary. Do I let my daughters watch this season, which means I likely can't skirt around the issue of what being a virgin actually means? Or do I tell them they can't watch, which means they'll interrogate me as to why and I'll have to explain there's subject matter that isn't appropriate, which means they'll likely find out online or from a friend, which means if I don't end up telling them what a virgin is, Alexa will? Sigh. There seems to be no winning here.
Of course, I get it. The show is targeted to people who are old enough to know what a virgin is. Still, the network has got to know that younger girls watch. I also understand that sexuality isn't exactly a new topic on The Bachelor, but I feel like up until recently, things were somewhat covert. It isn't really implicitly stated what goes on in the fantasy suites. And most of the time, you just see couples kissing, which is something my girls see my husband and I doing, so I'm OK with that.
In the end, it seems the show is intent on making Colton's virginity a big part of this season, and I'm just not ready to discuss sex in detail with my daughters. I'm not sure yet what I'm going to do. We truly enjoy watching it together, but how can I let ABC dictate when I have "the talk" with my daughters? It's a modern mom dilemma for sure. Help!
Mom Reveals a Rare Perspective on Husband Dying of Cancer: "We Have the Chance to Really Say Goodbye"
Cancer is a devastating disease - to say it ruins lives is an understatement. For one family, the illness will soon rip a beloved father from his wife and young child. But their perspective on life - and death - is one of hope and, surprisingly, appreciation.
Scott and Anne Sutton met as middle school students in Pennsylvania, but it wasn't until they reconnected at a mutual friend's wedding in 2011 that they fell in love. They were engaged two years later, they got married on Valentine's Day the next year, and it wasn't long before they welcomed their son, Alec, who is now 3 years old.
"It's really hard to find that balance of living life and not letting cancer take every single day away from you."
All the while, Scott has had medical issues - he has a hereditary condition called Von hippel-Lindau, and in 2009, doctors found a neuroendocrine tumor in his lung. They removed the bottom two lobes of that lung, and as Scott told POPSUGAR, "we had hoped that would be the last time anyone ever told me I had cancer."
Unfortunately, in January 2016, after months of lower back pain, he received even more upsetting news: he had another tumor, this one inoperable. "More tests would soon show that I also had neuroendocrine tumors in my liver, brain, and other parts of my bones," he said. It was deemed Stage 4. His son was just 8 months old at the time.
Throughout the next few years - which involved traveling around the world, including a stay at a hospital in Switzerland, to find a solution - the Suttons still managed to live a life similar to those of any other new parents, with a remarkable exception: Scott, along with his best friend, Alec Traub, wrote and published a children's book called I Love You Like . . . The story - illustrated by a cartoonist for the Garfield franchise - follows a grasshopper father explaining how much he loves his son. It's a sweet concept on its own, but it takes on profoundly deeper meaning knowing that it will one day serve as a reminder to young Alec of his late father's love.
Last month, Scott returned home from a three-week hospital visit, and he was given hospice care. "The doctors have given us an estimated time frame, and my goal is to have as many normal days at home with Anne and Alec as I can," he said.
With an honest perspective that in many ways is a rarity to witness, Scott, Anne, and their friend Alec opened up to POPSUGAR about what this experience has been like for them.
On Life With Their Son
From the beginning, when Alec was born in May 2015, Scott was "our rock," Anne remembered.
"Alec had colic," she said. "Cried and cried and cried. When I was sad that Alec was sad, Scott would take a photo of Alec crying on his phone and make it into a meme to make me laugh. He would send me photos of the vomit Alec spewed all over him while I was running an errand, to show that, 'hey, he does it to me, too.' I know I'm a better mom because of having Scott as my teammate."
And as Alec got older, his personality truly came into its own.
"Anne knows how I want to be remembered as a father, and I know she won't let me down."
"Alec is full of energy, always excited to see what's around the next corner," Scott recalled. "Incredibly empathic. Eats anything, including black olives. Seems to have a scary good memory - you can't pull anything past him you might have promised him a week ago. There's so much talent in there waiting to come out."
For Scott, Alec has been "the biggest joy of my life" and is "still excited" for all the amazing things to come in his future.
"My hope is that he'll do some of the things as a little boy that I did with my parents - I had a great childhood, so I'm excited he'll have one, too," Scott said.
On Writing a Book For His Son to Remember Him By
It's only a slight coincidence that Scott and Anne's son shares the same name as Scott's longtime friend, Alec. "It's sort of true we named our son after him," Scott said with a chuckle. "When Anne suggested the name as her number one choice, I immediately thought of Alec Traub and thought, 'would it be weird to name my son after a friend?' But he's a role model of a friend, and that's when I just knew it made sense."
In fact, for 15 years, the two had a silly tradition involving text messages that kept them close despite living in different states.
"Scott and I are two guys who never shied from telling one another how much we miss, love, and care for the other. One day, he randomly texted me, 'I miss you like the grasshopper misses grass . . . and hopping,'" Alec recalled. "I loved it, so then I texted him back, 'I miss you like the anteater misses ants . . . and eating.' It became our own fun, unique way to say I miss you."
When Alec visited Scott in Pittsburgh following his diagnosis in 2016, the two came up with the idea for a book.
"We were sitting all together talking about Scott's health and how much he wanted to be able to do something to leave behind for little Alec," Alec said. "We then immediately came to the idea of putting those text messages together and creating something for him. We had no idea where to go from there, but we knew it was something we couldn't afford to leave as just a cool idea. Time wasn't necessarily on our side."
So, they got to work. They watched YouTube videos about how to write a children's book, found a professional illustrator, and held Skype meetings until they were were ready to self-publish this past July. They've since sold more than 2,000 copies of I Love You Like . . ., and all of the profits go toward Alec's college fund. There's even a dedication to Scott's son, one of which any parent can relate: "For my son, Alec Sutton, who makes every day an adventure. Thank you for asking, 'Why?' each of the 1.4 million times. I love you buddy."
Selfishly, Alec is thankful for the book because, in their year working on it, the experience brought him and Scott even closer and taught him about taking something negative and flipping it.
"We turned that story into something so positive - for all of us," he said. "But if in the end, all it ended up being was something that I could create with Scott and that he could have for his son, then that was more than enough."
On Not Letting Cancer Change His Outlook
It's hard to imagine continuing on with the day-to-day once you receive a cancer diagnosis, but Scott was determined to keep a positive outlook.
"Even with everything that has been going on with me, there have been so many great things in my life worth living for," he said.
He and Anne share a few mottos - "always forward" and "worry when we must worry" to name a few - that, Scott said, "afforded us to live in the moment and truly just enjoy our time as a family."
"There are no bad memories. We did as much as we could together."
That time has included taking his son fishing for the first time, teaching him soccer, and even taking him to "Mickey's house," otherwise known as Disney World.
"There are no bad memories," he said. "We did as much as we could together, often packing the weekends full of activities with Alec and friends and family. We've built snowmen, we've gone minigolfing, I watched Alec ride a pony, we've seen the ocean . . ."
When asked what he hopes his son will remember most about him, he struggled to find words. "Anne knows how I want to be remembered as a father, and I know she won't let me down."
Her response?
"I won't," she said. "And I know there are family and friends who will share stories, too. Over the recent weeks, we've had friends who have visited who have promised Scott they will take Alec hunting with them and their own sons some day; other friends who live in other states promising that our kids will grow up knowing each other and knowing their dads were good friends."
On What They Wish Others Really Knew
Like any other typical parent, Scott knows that familiar feeling that there's always something more important to do, that we should be doing something productive like "taking care of that email in your inbox that needs done right away." But, he said, "what's really important is right in front of you. You have to try to enjoy every day with your family."
For Anne, she doesn't yet feel ready to reflect on what she's learned through her experience with Scott. But she did note that she now understands that there are appropriate times to be sad and grieve and times where you simply shouldn't.
"It's really hard to find that balance of then living life and not letting cancer take every single day away from you," she said. "We make a good team and worked through those feelings together, always making sure we were on the same page."
"We have the chance to really say goodbye in a special way. I don't want to say that we are lucky, because that doesn't seem quite right, either."
She even shared a rare upside to these years spent fighting cancer alongside her husband. Following the tragic shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue that killed 11 people, Anne realized her family was given an opportunity that they've made sure not to squander.
"We've obviously been very sad since coming home on hospice care, working through a host of emotions," she said. "But when I heard the news stories of those innocent people losing their lives so unexpectedly, I sat here that day feeling even more sad for them. Today, even though we know what is to come, we know what's coming."
She continued: "Scott and I have the opportunity to reminisce, to laugh with each other while watching Alec play, to make sure as many friends and family visit as possible. We have the chance to really say goodbye in a special way. I don't want to say that we are lucky, because that doesn't seem quite right, either. Maybe just that it's not lost on us - the magnitude that there are people who didn't have the same opportunity that we do right now. We owe it to them to make the most of it."
If You Have to Work on Christmas, Santa Can Send This Sweet "Alternative Delivery Dates" Note to Your Kids
As magical as Christmas morning can be, many parents don't get so spend Dec. 25 with their families. And one mom from Virginia came up with a simple, sweet solution to help soften the blow for kids expecting Santa to come on a particular night.
When Stephanie Lynn, a mom of two kids, found out her husband Brent - who is in the military - would have to work Christmas Day, she decided they'd celebrate the holiday one day early, "when we can all be together." She then typed up a letter from Santa that offered "alternative delivery dates" to present to her kids.
She at first shared it on Facebook as just a sweet idea for working parents to consider, but after the immense response - nearly 10,000 likes and 55,000 shares - she decided to whip up a few different versions of her letter for families to use, free of charge. She created one specifically for military families and first responders, another for medical professionals, a separate letter for pilots and flight crews, and even one for families with divorced parents. There's even a "general use" letterhead for parents who work jobs not previously listed.
"I'm so glad to be able to bless your family with this," she wrote to the legions of doctors, nurses, flight attendants, police officers, waitresses, and single parents who commented. "Christmas isn't about a box on the calendar, but the feeling we keep in our hearts."
Read on for a look at the different variations of her letter, and click to download whichever one best fits your family.
Why I Wish I Hadn't Done Genetic Testing While I Was Pregnant
My husband and I conceived on the first try. I remember seeing those little two lines and thinking, "That was too easy." I had been on birth control since I was 16. How was it possible that we could knock it out of the park the first time up to bat? I was waiting for the other shoe to drop, and then it did.
When I was nine weeks pregnant, we sat in my midwife's office, and she asked us if we both wanted to receive genetic testing. "Sure," we said, "sounds good." This was our first pregnancy, and we knew virtually nothing about the norms or what to expect. We were just going with the flow and following our doctors' and midwife's advice. In fact, I purposefully tried staying off the message boards and Google. "I don't have a medical degree," I remember saying to someone lecturing me on "natural birth." I was more than willing to let our doctors do their thing, but when our genetic tests came back, that changed.
I was at work when I got the call from my midwife. My husband and I were both carriers for a genetic disorder called Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS). Even as she solemnly broke the news to me, I remained perplexingly chipper. But as the conversation continued, her tone remained somber and sympathetic. I only really remember snippets of the conversation. She mentioned how this disease had something to do with developing cholesterol and that it could lead to heart problems. (Heart problems; those are treatable, right?) We had to go see a genetic counselor who could tell us more about our options. (Options? What options?)
Kind of numb and definitely in shock, I called my husband, who was working in Dallas at the time. He set about booking the genetic counselor, while I immediately went to Dr. Google. SLOS is way, way worse than a heart condition. It is a mutation in the DHCR7 gene, which provides the body instructions for making an enzyme called 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase. This enzyme is responsible for the final step in the body's production of cholesterol, which is necessary for normal development and function.
But the worst part? There was no way to know the severity of his condition.
So, yes, SLOS can cause heart defects. But it can also cause malformations in the lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and genitalia. It can be the cause behind intellectual disabilities and behavioral problems. And many infants with SLOS have weak muscle tone and experience feeding difficulties or failure to thrive. Suddenly the reason my midwife had sounded like her dog had just died made sense. This was serious. But the worst part? There was no way to know the severity of his condition (oh yeah, we also found out we were having a boy). Signs and symptoms vary widely, and while some cases only have minor physical abnormalities like webbed toes, some can be life-threatening with profound disabilities.
By the time our appointment with the genetic counselor came, I was so thankful to finally have someone give us some answers. She started off by walking us through the Punnett square (cue high school biology flashbacks) and explained that because my husband and I are both carriers of the SLOS gene, our son will have a 25 percent chance of inheriting the disorder, a 50 percent chance of just being a carrier, and a 25 percent chance of not inheriting the disorder or the gene. Laid out like that, it sounded promising that there would be a 75 percent chance he would be a perfectly normal little babe, but again, the genetic counselor was speaking to us in the most somber, serious tone. Anytime I tried to show the littlest bit of optimism, I got swatted down like a fly.
"OK, so there is a 75 percent chance he could be fine!"
"Yes, but 25 percent that he will have the disorder."
"OK, but he could still live a normal life, right? It's treatable in some cases."
"It looks like the chromosome your husband has is spliced, which would make this case more severe with a high fatality rate."
Now, please note: I am by no means an expert. Any and all information I have was taken from the internet or told to me by my counselor. But mind you, it seems as if no one knows anything about SLOS. In fact, our counselor was looking up the syndrome in a textbook as we were speaking, and I remember our doctor telling us we probably know more about SLOS than he does. Only one in 20,000 to 60,000 babies are born with the condition. How does that number vary so much? Many times, it goes undiagnosed. Since SLOS manifests so many growth defects, in most cases, it isn't the first diagnosis. And even more likely, the baby wouldn't even make it to full-term, making the number of people who are carriers of SLOS much higher than we think.
After our somewhat disastrous appointment with the genetic counselor (for which we were billed $850), we met with the "high risk" doctor at our practice. In a somewhat pragmatic tone, he helped us craft our game plan. At 16 weeks, we would get an amniocentesis, an invasive procedure where they extract amniotic fluid for testing. In three weeks, we would get the results. We would go from there.
Suddenly, at 11 weeks pregnant, all plans halted. I stopped telling people I was pregnant. We stopped brainstorming names. I stopped adding items to my registry. It was all just too sad and too depressing. I spent the rest of the first trimester going through the motions without any of the joy. I remember our doctor telling us we were the "poster children for genetic testing." And sure, on one hand I was so thankful we knew, but what difference did it make? Could I honestly terminate a baby I had already grown to love? Because yes, that's what everyone recommended. The midwife, the genetic counselor, the doctor - they all recommended termination. I remember thinking to myself, I would take on any challenge if it meant he could live a happy life. Anything is better than a baby who has no chance at all.
This Video of a “Naughty” Kid Saying He’s Going to Punch Santa’s Beard Off Is the Next Box Office Horror Flick
For kids who patiently wait for Santa to come down the chimney every year, being on the nice list is serious business. While absolutely no one wants coal for Christmas, a little British boy by the name of Jackson is taking being in Santa's good graces more seriously than most. In a hilarious video, Jackson goes at it with his dad about whether or not he's on the naughty list. And, oh boy, things really take a funny turn with respect to Santa - particularly when he jokingly threatens to "punch his beard off" with an uppercut - which, by the way, looks pretty good.
We're not the only ones who let out a few chuckles under our breaths. As soon as a the video was posted on Twitter, it instantly went viral. The original poster shared the minute-long clip with the caption: "Guys my dad just showed me this video & I really hope it makes ur day just as it's made mine." With more than 9 million views, the comments section was chock-full of lol-worthy reactions. Scroll through to get a peek at some of our favorites.
This Aladdin-Themed Anniversary Shoot Is From a Whole New World
If you are a fan of classic Disney movies, then you know that they all end with that magical "happily ever after." But what happens after that fairy-tale ending? An Aladdin-themed anniversary shoot, of course!
Ruby and Eric tied the knot with a gorgeous Disney-themed wedding that was so fabulous that it made it on to Disney's wedding TV show. The pair decided to keep the Disney flame alive and enlisted photographer Jenna Henderson to help them capture their love with this Aladdin-themed shoot.
"They had reached out to me about taking Aladdin-themed photos, and from there we came up with creative ways to give their portrait session a magical touch," said Jenna. "We actually hauled a 'magic carpet' up hiking trails and rocks to make our session come to life, but we didn't mind for a moment because we had a vision in mind." And the photos are absolutely worth the effort because they are full of fantastic details - like Ruby's blue-and-gold necklace that alludes to Princess Jasmine's headband or the photo in which Eric is offering Ruby an apple, which is a direct reference to the iconic scene from the movie.
Check out the amazing photos from this shoot and then spot many more hidden gems!
24 Rose Gold Engagement Rings Worn by Real Brides and Brides-to-Be - They're Stunning!
Rose gold isn't going anywhere, and we can see why; the beautiful mix of gold and copper make for a shade that stands out among a sea of platinum rings. We can't help but stare at these pretty engagement rings worn by real girls. Check out our favorite sparklers to find out if rose gold is right for you!
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