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 25 janvier 2019
If You Were Surprised to See Machine Gun Kelly in Bird Box, You Haven't Been Paying Attention
If you've been wondering if Bird Box's Felix (better known as the jerk who stole the car) is played by Machine Gun Kelly, the answer is "yes." And if you were surprised to see him appear in the insanely popular post-apocalyptic Netflix film, then you really shouldn't be. Colson Baker (or Machine Gun Kelly, as he goes by professionally) may be better known as a rapper from Cleveland, OH, but believe it or not, the 28-year-old has actually been adding to his acting résumé for a while now. In fact, he made his acting debut back in 2014 in the romantic drama Beyond the Lights.
Related: Bird Box: Yes, Dumplin's Danielle Macdonald Plays Olympia, and Yes, She's Wonderful
In Beyond the Lights - which stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Minnie Driver, Nate Parker, and Danny Glover - Machine Gun Kelly plays a self-important rapper named Kid Culprit who used to date Mbatha-Raw's character (and who tries to force the rising pop star to remove her jacket while they are performing together to reveal the skimpy outfit she wears underneath). Despite playing a rapper, we can assure you that the aggressive Kid Culprit is nothing like MGK in real life. In an interview with MTV News, he explained how wearing sunglasses helped him get into character. "I never wear sunglasses," he said. "Because I feel like it just hides you from people, and that's not how I am. But Kid Culprit kind of sees himself above everybody, and he is that type of guy." And it worked, as MGK plays an antagonist that we wanted to punch in the face by the end of the film.
After Beyond the Lights, he went on to appear in several other films, including Punk's Dead (the sequel to 1998's SLC Punk!), Nerve (which stars Emma Roberts and Dave Franco), sci-fi horror Viral, and The Land (where he also served as co-executive producer). On the small screen, MGK played a recurring role on the unfortunately short-lived Showtime comedy-drama series Roadies as Wesley "Wes" Mason, a former Pearl Jam roadie and espresso connoisseur.
During an interview with Collider, MGK explained the audition process (where he had to send in a tape of himself crying after being fired by Pearl Jam) and the "ballsy" move he made when five months had passed without news of whether or not he'd landed the role: calling casting director Gail Levin on Christmas Eve and delivering a monologue about Nirvana's Nevermind album. Luckily, the call paid off, and MGK got the part.
As to why he branched out into acting, MGK explained to Collider that he has always felt he had charisma in front of the camera, ever since he was a kid filming stunts with his friends. "Now, I'm looking for a role that's going to make the movie industry and community really just be impressed with the fact that I went so out of my element for that role," he said. Luckily, MGK already has a few forthcoming projects lined up. In the Mötley Crüe biopic The Dirt (which premieres on Netflix on March 22), he will star as Tommy Lee alongside Douglas Booth, Iwan Rheon, and Daniel Webber. He's also set to appear in the comedy Big Time Adolescence alongside Pete Davidson, and the sci-fi crime thriller Captive State, coming to theaters on March 29.
31 of the Best Movies on Netflix Right Now
Between its original films and the slew of amazing titles it acquires from other studios, Netflix has a wide enough selection of movies that everyone is sure to find something they like! From viral originals like Bird Box and To All The Boys I've Loved Before (and at least one sequel on the way) to its monthly slate of new acquisitions, the streaming platform always has something new to watch.
Some of the current crop of films on Netflix, such as Roma and Black Panther, have been getting serious award season buzz. Others are older, or just a really fun watch! No matter what you're in the mood for, we've got you covered. We've rounded up a wide variety of the best movies on Netflix right now to satisfy all your rainy day or night-in needs!
You Won't Believe How Young Queen Elizabeth Was When She First Met Prince Philip
Queen Elizabeth II doesn't just boast the title of current longest-ruling monarch (having been the queen of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand for nearly 67 years) - she also boasts the longest marriage of any British sovereign. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh married 71 years ago in November of 1947 (surpassing the marriage of former record holders, King George III and Queen Charlotte, by 13 years), but believe it or not, their courtship began long before that. In fact, when Prince Philip of Greece first met Princess Elizabeth, beginning their epic love story, Elizabeth was just eight years old, which means that she and Philip have known each other for 84 years. Talk about unrealistic relationship expectations!
The two had a few royal run-ins before their official introduction to each other. When Prince Philip was 13 and Princess Elizabeth was eight, they both attended the November 1934 wedding of the future Duke and Duchess of Kent: Elizabeth's uncle, Prince George, and Philip's cousin, Princess Marina. Then, three years later, they were both guests at the coronation of King George VI. However, it wasn't until July of 1939 that the two had their first publicized meeting at the Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, Devon. Then-18-year-old Philip was introduced to Elizabeth - who was just 13 - at the house of the Captain of the College. According to a two-page letter Elizabeth wrote to author Betty Shew, the princess was smitten with the young naval cadet from the very beginning.
Soon after, Philip left to serve in the British Royal Navy, and he and Elizabeth became pen pals, exchanging letters in his absence. After a seven-year-long courtship, the future queen and duke were secretly engaged in 1946, though the official announcement wasn't made until April 1947, when Elizabeth was 21 years old. They wed later that year in a relatively low-key affair due to wartime austerity. Though 21 may seem young, consider they married 13 years after their first meeting. We think Queen Elizabeth could safely say that she had found her partner for life.
Ladies, Rev Your Engines - a Female-Led Fast & Furious Spinoff Is Headed Our Way!
If you're standing, you might want to grab a seat, because Vin Diesel just announced that another Fast & Furious spinoff is coming our way! On Thursday, the actor revealed on Instagram that there are three new Universal spinoffs in the works, one of them being Dwayne Johnson's Hobbs and Shaw and the other a "female-protagonist-driven spinoff" Diesel created in 2017. While the third has yet to be revealed, Diesel said the one he's working on is "very exciting" and includes screenwriters Nicole Perlman, Lindsey Beer, and Geneva Robertson-Dworet.
Currently, there are no other details regarding the film, but there is a possibility Michelle Rodriguez could be reprising her role as Letty. However, it doesn't look like Tyrese will be starring in this one either. Uh-oh. In case you need a refresher, back in 2017, Tyrese got into an intense feud with Johnson after the former wrestler signed off on doing the Hobbs and Shaw spinoff with Jason Statham and Idris Elba. Tyrese blamed Johnson for delaying the release of Fast and Furious 9 and pushing it from April 19, 2019, to April 10, 2020. It's unclear when Diesel's spinoff will be released, but let's just hope it's after Fast and Furious 9.
Everything You Need to Know About Kate Middleton's Quaint Childhood Home
Image Source: Getty / Samir Hussein / WireImage
When Kate Middleton became Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, in April of 2011 after marrying the second heir in line to the British throne, she was thrust into the royal spotlight and earned a permanent place in our royal-loving hearts. But how much do you know about the angelic mother of three before she transitioned from eldest Middleton sibling to duchess?
You may know that Kate's parents, Carole and Michael, run a party-planning business called Party Pieces, which is a mail-order party-supply company worth an estimated $50 million. So while the Middleton family wasn't of royal family status, Kate's childhood in Bradfield - a village and civil parish in Berkshire - certainly wasn't too shabby.
Located a little over an hour outside of London (making it a prime location for commuters to live), Kate spent much of her young life in the quaint rural Berkshire village. The future royal was born at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, christened at the parish church of St. Andrews in Bradfield, and raised in the Berkshire hamlet of Bradfield Southend in West View, a four-bedroom red-brick Victorian that Kate's parents purchased in 1979 (pictured ahead). After a few years spent in Amman, Jordan, where Kate's father worked for British Airways, the family returned to West View in Bradfield and enrolled Kate at St. Andrew's School.
Image Source: Getty / Steve Parsons / PA Images
The Middletons were known for being very much a part of the local community, often frequenting the 18th-century Old Boot Inn in Stanford Dingley and even inviting the pub's owner, John Haley, to Kate's 2011 nuptials. Though the pub faced threat of closure due to rising maintenance costs in 2014, locals rallied to save the establishment, and it was ruled a "treasured asset" for the village community. The pub was even featured on Kate Middleton home village coach tours through West Berkshire ahead of the royal wedding.
As the Middletons's party-supply company became increasingly profitable, the family moved from West View into Oak Acre, a five-bedroom, Tudor-style country house in nearby Bucklebury, Berkshire. Soon after, Kate became a boarder at the coed Marlborough College in Wiltshire, one of England's most exclusive schools. Carole and Michael Middleton still reside in West Berkshire today, having moved into a Georgian home on Pease Hill called Bucklebury Manor in 2012. With 18 acres, seven bedrooms, a tennis court, and a swimming pool, it's safe to say that the Middleton family home can no longer be considered merely "charming."
Idris Elba's Shirtless Body Is Truly a Sight to Behold
We can all agree that Idris Elba is one very attractive man. While he definitely looks dapper in a suit, we're a bit partial to his shirtless moments. Whether he's shedding his clothes for a role or he's hitting the gym, we can't help but get a little weak in the knees anytime he shows off that beautiful, bare chest. See his best shirtless pictures ahead.
12 Times Kit Harington Went Shirtless and Made You Feel Like You Won the Game of Thrones
Kit Harington is just one of the many reasons we love watching Game of Thrones. Between his sexy man bun and those perfectly chiseled abs, there's no denying what a fine specimen he is. Ahead, take a look at Kit's sexiest shirtless moments.
jeudi 24 janvier 2019
I Got This $45 Wrap Skirt, and It's So Flattering, I've Worn It Every Week This Month
I have always been intimidated by the midi skirt trend. My hips are much wider than my waist, so they often make me look like a potato sack because they never fit quite right. After years of staying away from the look, everything changed when I slipped into this Star Asymmetrical Ruffle-Hem Skirt ($45, originally $60) from our POPSUGAR collection at Kohl's.
This design lays over my body effortlessly, flattering my stomach and waist.
This design lays over my body effortlessly, flattering my stomach and waist. There is an elastic section on the back of this piece that allows each woman to get her perfect fit. Plus, the asymmetrical hem lets you show off a hint of leg and add shape to your figure. This is a skirt I can easily take from day to night; it looks great with heels and a bodysuit, as well as with a sweater and booties.
The skirt runs pretty true to size - I'm wearing it in a large, which is often what I wear in pants and skirts. If you're looking for a new wardrobe style, I highly suggest giving this design a try while it's on sale. I'll be wearing mine on the regular.
Back-to-Office Shopping: 16 Cool Work Tops You Can Find Online
Now is an excellent time to revamp your work wardrobe. A new season symbolizes a time to focus on change, especially when it comes to clothes. If you want to feel cute and put-together at the office, we rounded up our favorite tops that are perfect for work. It's always the right time to refresh your professional attire.
All the Engagement Ring Trends You Could Possibly Need to Know For 2019
This is bound to be an exciting year, especially in the engagement ring department. Instead of the classic round diamond ring popping up all over your Instagram feed, you should expect to see a surge of vintage and antique rings. And color? Very in. Read on to hear from Elizabeth Doyle, certified gemologist and cofounder of Doyle & Doyle, about exactly which ring trends 2019 has in store and how to shop for a diamond (no matter your budget!).
25 New Dresses So Pretty and Versatile, You'll Wear Them 100 Times in 2019
Right now, we're all about building up our 2019 dress collection. We love throwing on just one item of clothing and being ready to walk out of the door. They're stylish, comfortable, and an easy way to look put-together. That's why we created your ultimate guide to dresses for the year. We searched through every corner of the internet to bring you the very best options. Whether you like maxis or minis, there is definitely something for everyone. Take a look at our must haves, and treat yourself to something new.
22 Sexy Bikinis So Hot, You'll Sweat Just Looking at Them
If you're on the hunt for a sultry bikini in 2019, we've got you covered. We scoured the internet and hunted down the hottest picks out there right now, so all you have to do is find your match. From neon pink choices to sexy animal print picks, it will be hard to not want them all. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites and feel your best.
This Gorilla Can't Stop Kissing Her Newborn Baby, and It's Honestly Making Me Want to Give Birth Again
I remember giving birth to both my babies, and each time, I felt compelled to kiss them, not just once or twice but constantly. At one point after several minutes straight of baby kissing, my husband stopped me and said I should probably take a break.
So when I saw this video bubbling up of a mama gorilla kissing her newborn baby, I instantly connected in a way I never thought possible with another species. The way this animal held her baby and delicately smooched her smack on the lips? It was like looking in a mirror.
Calaya, a western lowland gorilla, gave birth to baby boy Moke a few months ago at the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington DC. The moment wasn't just special for the first-time mom - Moke was the first baby gorilla born at the zoo in nine years, and it was a positive step for the species, which is critically endangered due to disease and poaching.
Although some commenters believe she was actually cleaning her baby or clearing his airwaves, it all comes from a place of love - a love that, whether you're an ape mom or a human mom, is going to stir your hormones right up.
15 Genius Home Organizers We Didn't Know We Were Missing From Our Lives
If you feel like your home could use a pick-me-up this year, now's the time to get organized. To make it easy we shopped and uncovered 15 genius products that will help you get it together. From over-toilet storage to refrigerator containers, you'll wonder how you lived so long without them. They best part: they're all from Walmart and extremely affordable. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
Aldi's $4 Heart-Shaped Cheese Box Is a Valentine I Can Get Behind
Advent calendar season may be long gone, but Aldi is still giving the people what they want: cheese! For Valentine's Day, the grocery store chain is releasing a cheese assortment that's perfect for the love of your life who prefers salty over sweet. The Happy Farms Preferred Valentine's Day Cheese Assortment is just $4 and includes four deliciously flavored cheeses: creamy cinnamon with raisins and diced apples, mature cheddar, Wensleydale with sweet cranberries, and Wensleydale with raspberries and white chocolate (yes, you read that correctly).
Grab some crackers, set the mood, and pick up the cutest cheese assortment for your significant other. Check out the cheeses within the Aldi assortment ahead, and make sure to get your gift when it's available in stores on Jan. 30.
Ben & Jerry's Newest Flavors Are Positively LOADED With Cookie Dough Cores
May I have your attention for an important, potentially life-changing announcement, please? Ben & Jerry's is welcoming three new ice cream flavors, but they're not just any ol' flavors, y'all. These forthcoming pints are absolutely jam-packed with cookie dough cores capable of satisfying your sweet tooth for the rest of eternity.
Each flavor features a different type of ooey-gooey dough running through the center. There's Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Core, which, as you can likely guess, stars a classic cookie dough filling. Ice cream-lovers who always say "obviously" when asked if they want a cherry on top will gravitate toward the Sweet Like Sugar Cookie Dough Core flavor, which combines a cherry-filled ice cream with a sugar cookie dough center. Last but most certainly not least is Wake & "No Bake" Cookie Dough Core, which features a chocolaty cookie dough core.
These three dough-licious ice creams join a collection of other indulgent Ben & Jerry's Core flavors like Brownie Batter Core and Peanut Butter Fudge Core. They're coming soon to a freezer aisle and Ben & Jerry's scoop shop near you, so keep reading to learn about the ingredients in each pint and keep your eyes peeled for 'em during your next grocery shop run.
In the Mood to Redecorate? These 12 Gorgeous Furniture Pieces Might Be For You
If you ever look at your home and feel like it could use a little something extra, start furniture shopping. Adding one new piece can drastically change the way your space looks and make you fall in love with your house or apartment all over again. Some of our favorite furniture we've found is at Walmart because it's easy to incorporate so many different decor styles. Plus, it looks a lot more expensive than it actually is! Just keep reading to shop our 12 favorite picks.
11 Desk Organizers From Amazon So Satisfying, You'll Never Want to Leave the Office
Is your desk a pile of papers and random baubles? Join the club. If one of your 2019 goals is to be more tidy, we're going to help you out. Amazon offers tons of desktop organizers with affordable price tags. We created a shopping guide to the very best options that will keep your belongings in order all year long. After seeing how satisfying these products look, you'll want one pretty badly.
Top Travel Trends For the Female Traveler in 2019
Females are fierce, and our travel style is no different. The new year promises even more epic travel opportunities as we slide into 2019, so we hope you have your passport handy. We're craving diversity, far-flung destinations that promise adventures to remember, and refreshing our bodies and minds with a side of surrounding ourselves with strong women. Oh, and heavy on the culture, please. We're about to dish up some inspiration from your fellow jet-setting females based on upcoming travel trends for the new year. Follow suit, or forge your own way: either path will have you pioneering 2019 in various corners of the world, or, perhaps in your own backyard.
It's not just destinations that are trending; it's the type of travel luring us there. We've gathered trend intel from some top touring companies about how 2019 is shaping up for women specifically, and it's got us ready to book a flight (or 10). If you're into trekking, there are multiple locales beckoning you this year. If foodie travel is the name of your game, then get a whiff of some upcoming hot spots. Whether you're thinking of embarking on a solo venture or joining a group of badass explorers, there's a trip idea for everyone here.
While we can't predict everything on the horizon in the New Year, there is one thing for sure . . . 2019 promises a hard lean toward adventures of every kind. Are your bags packed?
24 Unreal Travel Experiences You Have to Try in 2019
Start packing your bags, because we have some travel ideas that are going to make your 2019 over-the-top incredible. Travel authority Airbnb just released its travel trends for next year, and while some don't seem surprising (wellness travel is still going to be big!), at least one of them will make you say, "Whoa!"
There are six key trends that will be huge in 2019: horse yoga experiences, food experiences, historical travel, tie-dyeing experiences, mindful movement, and yoga and wine pairing. With the help of Airbnb, we've pulled together a huge list of places where you can experience all of these trends next year - and yes, that includes where you can do horse yoga!
Keep reading to get inspired for your next vacation, and make sure you have your passport handy: we think you're going to love those wine and yoga classes in Italy . . .
60 Amazon Organizers So Genius, You'll Be Motivated to Overhaul Your Home in 2019
If you have heaps of random items piled up in your home, it's time to get your life together! There's nothing more stressful than searching through a sea of stuff to find just one thing. Thankfully, Amazon has some organizational products that are useful and affordable. Once you include these items in your space, keeping things in order will be effortless. Instead of putting off the inevitable, get these essentials from Amazon today. If you have Prime, they'll be at your door in as soon as two days. No more excuses - you'll feel so much better once everything is put away.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano
Related: The 17 Coolest Gadgets of 2019 Are So Genius, They'll Change Your Daily Life Forever
Burger King Just Brought Back Funnel Cake Fries, and We Are READY For Powdery Fingers
Burger King might be able to read minds, because after bringing back Cini Minis, our go-to '90s snack, it's revived another past menu item we've been dreaming about, and we're going to need more napkins. Funnel Cake Fries will officially be available at Burger King on Jan. 24, "fried to crispy perfection" and ready to be devoured. After the fries were first introduced to the fast-food chain's menu in 2009, fans have begged for the sweet treat's return, with one person even writing on Twitter, "I will never stop thinking about when Burger King had funnel cake sticks." Neither will we.
Whether you remember Burger King's Funnel Cake Fries from nearly 10 years ago or you're just a sucker for the heaven that is carnival food, you can pick up the new menu item while it's available at stores for a limited time. For $2, you can get a pack of nine Funnel Cake Fries topped with powdered sugar, and in case you had any doubts, the reviews are already positive! Ahead, see Burger King's revived menu item and what fried-food-lovers are saying about the Funnel Cake Fries.
Related: The Definitive Ranking of Your Favorite Fast-Food French Fries
Try the KonMari Method on Your Social Media Feed; It Feels Like an Act of Self-Care
Try the KonMari Method on Your Social Media Feed; It Feels Like an Act of Self-Care
Ever scrolled through Instagram and found yourself rolling your eyes or even getting upset over someone's photo or caption? Delete them. Social media is a great way to stay connected to friends and family and keep up with current events, but it can also be more toxic than you realize, especially if you're dwelling on what you see long after you've seen it. We've said before that being selective about the people you keep around is an important form of self-care. Well, who you choose to follow online is no exception. Just like how the KonMari method aims to rid your home of clutter and items that don't "spark joy," you should be applying the same rule to people.
In case you're thinking, "That's a little dramatic," eliminating any source of unhappiness - no matter how small - will only benefit you. Don't underestimate the power of social media. Why let an acquaintance's insensitive Facebook status fire you up or allow yourself to give into jealousy sparked by someone's "humble" brag? Simply put, it's just not worth it. And don't even get me started on why you shouldn't follow any exes who still affect you. Unfollow anyone who can shift your mood in a negative direction, and instead, add people/accounts that inspire you or bring you joy. The result will be a detoxed feed limited to only those worthy of your time.
"Unfollow anyone who can shift your mood in a negative direction."
You'll notice how much more positive your social media experience is when you curate your feed for the better. Even choosing to keep accounts that feature ridiculous memes that make you laugh is totally acceptable. Our screens are often the last thing we see each day, so anything that helps brighten your mood can be equally as beneficial. A digital detox altogether would, of course, be ideal, but if that's not realistic for you, consider deep-cleaning your friends list.
46 Valentine's Day Gifts Your Guy Will Actually Want
Is your man hard to shop for? We're here to ease your troubles. Take a look at our cool and unique picks for Valentine's Day. Whether your guy craves adventure or loves chilling on the couch, there's something for everyone. These gifts are guaranteed to please.
Related: 12 Valentine's Day Gifts That Will Win You Points For Creativity
Deleting People Off of Social Media Made Me a Happier Person, and I'm Not Sorry About It
It started with an Instagram of a blogger. She wasn't doing anything particularly irritating or awful, but I just felt unhappy when I looked at the photo. I couldn't even tell you what exactly the picture was or what the caption said, but I just remember the feeling that came over me: annoyance, unhappiness, and discontent.
It happened again just a few weeks later with a photo of a girl from college that I remember as not being very nice. I decided then and there that I'd had enough. "I don't need to follow these people on social media. Why am I flooding my life with people that make me unhappy?" I unfollowed her. The world didn't end. She probably wouldn't even care. No one called me out for cutting off a needless form of communication with someone I didn't actually even like. I went back to the blogger's page and unfollowed her, too.
So began my mission to rid my social media platforms of people who didn't make me happy. That boy I'd dated for a few months? Gone. Girls who were just outright nasty to my friends and me in college? See ya! Fitness models who made me feel less than adequate in my own skin? Over it.
Social media doesn't have to be the toxic place everyone says it is, but you have to be willing to make the first move to make it that way.
Working as a social media strategist, it's hard to do a digital detox or just give up all social media platforms, but it also didn't need to make me unhappy whenever I was on it throughout the day. Plus, I actually really like social media when it's a healthy space for me. So instead of the extreme choice of giving it all up, I decided I'd fill my feed with the people and things that made me the happiest and didn't send my mood into a tailspin. I followed the people I'm actually still friends with, my family, my fitness instructors who inspire me, bloggers who post stunning photos, and meme accounts that make me laugh out loud.
Being selective about the people you surround yourself with is important for your health and self-care, and that extends far beyond who is in your friend group. For so long I let a fear of being accepted and liked control who I should follow and interact with. That pit in my stomach when I thought of unfollowing someone I didn't care for as a person was what kept me from purging my feed - all because I thought it would be awkward if they knew I unfollowed them or if they (gasp!) unfollowed me back. When I realized how much better I felt when I didn't see that blogger post a video that made me roll my eyes or a picture of my ex that brought me to tears, I knew I had made the right decision.
Now, my feed fills me with joy when I see my friends post about their vacations, my family with their partners, bloggers whose outfits I draw inspiration from, and fitness accounts that motivate me instead of beat me down. Social media doesn't have to be the toxic place everyone says it is, but you have to be willing to make the first move to make it that way.
102 Creative Tattoos You'll Want to Get With Your Best Friend
If your best friend is TRULY a BFF, she'll make it permanent and get inked with you. After all, your friendship never happened unless you get a tattoo and Instagram it, am I right? We scoured the web to find the best tattoos between friends for you to use as an inspirational guide. Check it out and send your fave idea over to your main bestie. Don't worry, it will only hurt a little . . .
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Haley Lyndes
Whether You Belong to Gryffindor or House Targaryen, You'll Love This Bookish Wedding
If you dream of flying around the Quidditch pitch with Harry and Ron, or imagine traversing through the Seven Kingdoms, this bookish wedding will keep your attention until the very last page. Charlotte and Andrew made sure to highlight each of the fandoms they love during their North Carolina nuptials, and photographer Audrey Priel shared some behind-the-scenes details from their special day.
Audrey was blown away as soon as she met up with Charlotte and her bridesmaids on April 1, at the Marriott City Center in Downtown Raleigh. "Charlotte and her girls were already dressed to the nines and her DRESS was just absolutely breathtaking. A beautiful, flowy silvery gray color, that hugged her curves in just the right spot, had the perfect amount of princess pouff, and with a gorgeously matched shawl, she was inspiring to look at," Audrey said.
"With everyone in good spirits, we laughed and took pictures of details, including her homemade bridesmaid necklaces, her Harry Potter-inspired Head Girl pin, and her Matron of Honor's Game of Thrones-inspired Hand of the Queen pin (and yes, the Best Man had a Hand of the King pin as well). Their beautiful golden flowers were adorned with feathers and matched all of the glittery awesomeness!"
Charlotte and Andrew's ceremony and reception were held at the Bridge Club, complete with high ceilings, stunning windows, and tasty food. Throughout the celebration, guests were treated to pop culture references from The Office, Doctor Who, Star Wars, and The Lord of the Rings, in addition to Game of Thrones and Harry Potter. The festivities finished off with a murder mystery cocktail hour, video games, and of course, a fandom-friendly cake. Keep reading to see all the bookish details ahead!
105 Book Tattoos For the Ultimate Reader
Being a book-lover isn't just a hobby; it's a way of life. For bibliophiles, the stories we delve into become very important influences on us. If you want to make your adoration for a great story permanent, a book tattoo is an awesome way to do it. We've rounded up a collection of our favorite ink, so take a look!
- Additional reporting by Macy Cate Williams
2019 Hotel Bucket List: 15 Stunning Spots to Stay
Each new year that comes around brings its own set of top places to travel, and with this always comes hundreds of suggested resorts, hotels, and B&Bs around the world that every jetsetter should add to their bucket list. Where you choose to stay while traveling can oftentimes make or break your experience - no matter what kind of travel experience you're looking for. So we've selected 15 must-experience stays that every traveler, vacationer, and dreamer should keep their eye on this year, from beachside stunners in Greece and one-of-a-kind stays across the USA to remote, next-level properties. If you have "travel more" at the top of your resolutions list for 2019 or you're simply craving a dose of travel inspiration, you'll want to keep reading!
Top Travel Trends For the Female Traveler in 2019
Females are fierce, and our travel style is no different. The new year promises even more epic travel opportunities as we slide into 2019, so we hope you have your passport handy. We're craving diversity, far-flung destinations that promise adventures to remember, and refreshing our bodies and minds with a side of surrounding ourselves with strong women. Oh, and heavy on the culture, please. We're about to dish up some inspiration from your fellow jet-setting females based on upcoming travel trends for the new year. Follow suit, or forge your own way: either path will have you pioneering 2019 in various corners of the world, or, perhaps in your own backyard.
It's not just destinations that are trending; it's the type of travel luring us there. We've gathered trend intel from some top touring companies about how 2019 is shaping up for women specifically, and it's got us ready to book a flight (or 10). If you're into trekking, there are multiple locales beckoning you this year. If foodie travel is the name of your game, then get a whiff of some upcoming hot spots. Whether you're thinking of embarking on a solo venture or joining a group of badass explorers, there's a trip idea for everyone here.
While we can't predict everything on the horizon in the New Year, there is one thing for sure . . . 2019 promises a hard lean toward adventures of every kind. Are your bags packed?
24 Unreal Travel Experiences You Have to Try in 2019
Start packing your bags, because we have some travel ideas that are going to make your 2019 over-the-top incredible. Travel authority Airbnb just released its travel trends for next year, and while some don't seem surprising (wellness travel is still going to be big!), at least one of them will make you say, "Whoa!"
There are six key trends that will be huge in 2019: horse yoga experiences, food experiences, historical travel, tie-dyeing experiences, mindful movement, and yoga and wine pairing. With the help of Airbnb, we've pulled together a huge list of places where you can experience all of these trends next year - and yes, that includes where you can do horse yoga!
Keep reading to get inspired for your next vacation, and make sure you have your passport handy: we think you're going to love those wine and yoga classes in Italy . . .
Brutally Honest Reasons Why I Hate Valentine's Day
As a self-proclaimed queer feminist, Valentine's Day is something I have come to loathe. It is both the commercialization of the holiday and the sentiment that has always been unsettling to me. A whole industry has been spawned out of this day, and companies make millions of dollars from floral arrangements, cards, and dinner reservations. Valentine's Day is also the unofficial end of engagement season, interestingly, and nearly 10 percent of the total number of engagements for the year happen in February. So from the gate, February is already pushing you toward a heteronormative plotline.
There is so much hype and buildup, but for what? One day does not undo the other 364 you share when you're involved in a relationship. Random gestures of love and kindness should happen throughout the year. What does this say about the history of patriarchy? And the larger romanticized dream of love and what society dictates it should be? The long and short answer to both these questions is that it's complicated. However, for me, it has always been helpful to consider the larger history of the holiday to get a more nuanced perspective.
The origins of Valentine's Day are rooted in the Catholic Church. And as a Catholic-turned-atheist, this is yet another reason this holiday is unsettling to me. The Church holiday is named after St. Valentine; however, when you do a bit more digging on who exactly St. Valentine was, things become a bit murky. There are three Valentines that the Church recognizes, each of whom died in different ways.
While the history is interesting and there is even a potential pagan holiday the Church took over in an effort to overshadow it, there are still bigger issues at hand. As a person in the world, you should regularly put time aside to honor yourself and those around you who matter - and maybe a day like this is one to help you take pause. How and who you love are not the issue; it's whether or not you're taking time - any given day - to recognize and celebrate it.
Regardless of whether you are single or in a relationship, this holiday can put pressure on both situations. If you are in a relationship, there is larger societal pressure to shout it from the rooftops that you love your significant other. If you're single, you probably are going to hate it regardless, but for me, I have found it helpful to take pause and practice self-care on a day like this.
The older I get, the more important it is for me to surround myself with the people and the things that make me happy. Regardless of my relationship status, taking time for myself is one of the most important things I can do for myself any time of year. Valentine's Day has reminded me to take stock of my love life but also to help me keep me on track for what I am looking for in the long run. Overall, the pressure we put on the holiday just isn't worth it. Your time is better spent putting your efforts into your own happiness and the health of your relationship if you're in one - every day of the year instead of just one.
15 Awesome Kid-Friendly Resorts to Take Your Family to This Spring Break
When you picture a relaxing and beautiful resort, it's hardly ever one with kids (and all their baggage) in tow. But that's all starting to change, because more and more hotels are working hard to accommodate both adults and their little ones on the never-ending quest for a fun-for-all vacation.
These fabulous resorts offer an abundance of relaxation opportunities for parents and a ton of adventures for kids. In addition to warm and sunny locations, you'll also get plush accommodations and activities such as kids clubs, children's dining, spa treatments, and golfing. Keep reading to find your perfect stress-free Spring break haven for the whole family.
My Mom, Daughter, and I Take a Girls' Trip Every Winter, and You Should, Too
As a Midwesterner, I like to say that I'm a fan of the seasons, but I'm lying. I pretty much despise Winter. Sure, I'll admire the beauty of the first snowfall and revel in the guilt-free nature of Netflix binges in front of a fire (it's too cold to do anything else), but really, my favorite part of Winter is escaping it. And my favorite excursion, undoubtedly, is the annual trip my mom, my daughter, and I take for a long weekend in February.
I love the men in our lives, but there's something about a girls-only getaway that's so extraordinary.
Our destination is a resort where drinks are served on the beach and by the adjacent pool and the preferred mode of transportation is a golf cart. And while that's all part of the allure, it's really the company that makes this particular trip one that I know all three of us will cherish for the rest of our lives.
Related: 10 Epic Theme Parks to Take Your Kids to That Aren't Disney
Don't get me wrong: I love the men in our lives - grandpas, dads, uncles, and brothers - but there's something about a girls-only getaway that's so different and extraordinary. As wonderful as those boys and men of ours may be, their agendas and ideas of what constitutes fun are often much different than our own. But when it's just the ladies, we can fully relax and bond while doing the things we love, which, yes, includes shopping, spa-going, and sunning.
Some of my own favorite childhood memories involve taking big-city trips with my grandma, aunt, and mom, where we would spend hours wandering the stores on Chicago's Michigan Avenue, then retire to our hotel room to chat about everything under the sun and order room service. I remember listening to them call their husbands to check in, but, truthfully, we didn't miss them a bit. We were loving every minute of glorious girl time.
Related: 10 Hidden Gems at Walt Disney World That Will Make You Sing "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah"
Our annual beach vacation gives my 7-year-old daughter this same wonderful experience with the added benefits of a few extra days and escaping the cold, and I know she appreciates both as much as I do. Away from school schedules and family routines, we're able to just enjoy each other, and any time her moodiness or my stubbornness threatens that enjoyment, Grandma is there to quell the storm and remind us how lucky we are to have each other. And we are so lucky.
This trip, like my childhood girls' trips, won't last forever. One day, my daughter won't think sharing a room with her mom and grandma sounds like a dream, and one day, my mom won't be around for us both to love on. But this year, and hopefully next year and the year after that, we're all on the same page, thrilled to have quality time together. And I plan to soak up every minute of it.
10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Getting a Divorce
Now that I'm nearing the end of the divorce process (it's a marathon - not a sprint!), I'm starting to reflect on the things I wish I had done differently or, perhaps, the things I wish I had known before getting a divorce, period. I don't think there is any real book to prepare you for divorce, as each person's experience is so unique. But as you're headed down the aisle - that's the court aisle - of divorce, there are some things it wouldn't hurt to know as you sever your formerly "forever" relationship.
The Sad Truth - Sometimes Divorce Is the Best Option
There are lots of "D" words in this world that people don't want to say or hear, and divorce is one of them. But sometimes, no matter how you slice it, divorce is the absolute best option.
Don't get me wrong; I'm not an advocate for divorce. I am an advocate for trying your hardest to make your marriage work. But sometimes continually trying to force something together that clearly doesn't belong together ends up doing more harm than good. I know from personal experience.
I never thought I would find myself divorced young. I never thought I would find myself divorced, to be honest. I had been with my husband a total of 14 years, and we had been through so much together. However, we had some fundamental issues that didn't give us the strongest basis for our marriage. In our defense, we were high school sweethearts who stayed together before our identities were fully formed. Before we chose careers. Before we gained our total independence.
I'm on the other side now, and I'm here to tell you something: It's sad. It's hard. But sometimes it's the best option.
We dated, got engaged, moved in, got a dog, got married, and then found ourselves at a crossroads. Little problems had grown into big problems, and the resentment piled on. We were either fighting, not speaking, or being passive-aggressive with each other. We decided to go to therapy. Twice. Then we separated, planned date nights, and spent time together, but the resentment didn't subside. Then we tried one last time to get back together and make it work. Spoiler alert: it didn't.
I cried while we signed our divorce papers. Sobbed. Not because our marriage was over, not because we didn't try, but because the life I thought I was going to have was gone and I didn't know where to start or how to start.
I'm on the other side now and have been for a few years. And I'm here to tell you something: It's sad. It's hard. But sometimes it's the best option.
Here's some real talk. No matter how many people are involved - maybe you have six kids, maybe it's just you and your spouse - you deserve to be happy. Getting divorced is not a selfish act, by any means. Sometimes getting divorced allows you both to become the best versions of yourselves, and you both deserve that. You also both deserve to be fully, completely in love with someone, for better or worse, and to be fully and completely loved back. And sometimes what attracted you to someone changes over time. Maybe these reasons are shallow. Maybe they're deep. Maybe they're serious. Whatever they are, sometimes you need to let go of the baggage to be a better person or a better parent. Your children know you're not happy and may act out. Your parents know you're not happy. Your friends know you're not happy. And if you've exhausted all options, it's time to part ways - hopefully amicably.
I understand that there are lots of consequences with a divorce, too. You may lose friends. You may have to sell the house you made a home. A percentage of your pension - the money you worked so hard for - may be lost to an ex-spouse. These are all hard pills to swallow.
But I will say this: there is absolutely no price tag on happiness. You will make it. You will come out on the other side. And you'll look back and realize that letting go of your marriage was for the best.
Holy Crap, This Woman Gave Birth in the ER Hallway and Her Photographer Caught It All!
Jes felt that her pregnancy with her sixth baby, the family's first boy, was unpredictable from the beginning - and her instincts were spot-on! Although she began experiencing contractions on July 19, 2017, they didn't progress much, so she labored at home, enduring contractions until they got more frequent and painful, in the early morning hours of July 24, when her water broke. Feeling panicked that she wouldn't make it to the hospital on time for Max's birth, Jes got into the car barefoot with her husband Travis, and texted her birth photographer, Tammy Karin.
After laboring intensely in the passenger seat, Jes and Travis finally made it to the local hospital, where they ran into Tammy. Just as Jes walked through the ER doors, Travis and Tammy screaming for someone to help them, she could feel that Max was coming and pulled down her sweatpants.
"I could feel my body pushing the baby's head out," Jes wrote in a post to Tammy's blog. "I reached down and could feel his head crowning with my hand. I looked at my husband and said, 'Travis, catch him!' Without any hesitation he did just that as I felt my body involuntarily pushing his head the rest of the way out. At that moment Tammy began snapping away! Then the nurses came rushing down the hall. It was a blur at this point, they reached us, helped me lay down just as my body began to push again."
A part-time ER nurse, who happened to be an OB at another hospital, made her way to them as Max's head popped out, and with her first and only intentional push, she was able to completely birth her baby boy. Her son was born right on the hospital floor just 25 minutes after her water broke at home.
Looking back on that day, Jes recalls her husband's demeanor throughout the entire ordeal. "She could see on her husband's face that he was calm and happy," Tammy told POPSUGAR. "She felt so close to him in that moment and trusted him with her and their baby's life. She loves looking at the pictures and seeing his smile as he instinctively reached in to support her during the delivery."
"It was my craziest birth, but also, the most perfect," Jes wrote. "It was not at all what I had planned, but it ended without any intervention, with a healthy baby, and amazing support people by our sides. It was beautiful and I'll forever love every memory of it."
See Max's whirlwind entrance into the world in the stunning photos Tammy was able to capture of his unique birth.
This Gorilla Can't Stop Kissing Her Newborn Baby, and It's Honestly Making Me Want to Give Birth Again
I remember giving birth to both my babies, and each time, I felt compelled to kiss them, not just once or twice but constantly. At one point after several minutes straight of baby kissing, my husband stopped me and said I should probably take a break.
So when I saw this video bubbling up of a mama gorilla kissing her newborn baby, I instantly connected in a way I never thought possible with another species. The way this animal held her baby and delicately smooched her smack on the lips? It was like looking in a mirror.
Calaya, a western lowland gorilla, gave birth to baby boy Moke a few months ago at the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington DC. The moment wasn't just special for the first-time mom - Moke was the first baby gorilla born at the zoo in nine years, and it was a positive step for the species, which is critically endangered due to disease and poaching.
Although some commenters believe she was actually cleaning her baby or clearing his airwaves, it all comes from a place of love - a love that, whether you're an ape mom or a human mom, is going to stir your hormones right up.
Valentine's Day Gift Ideas That Take You Completely Out of the Candy Aisle
While the default Valentine's Day gift might send you in search of something sweet and chocolaty, there are plenty of other great ideas to get your loved one that avoid the candy aisle completely. From nostalgic presents to activities you can do together, we put together a list of the best noncandy gifts that will make this Feb. 14 the best one yet.
Sweethearts Candy Hearts Won't Be Sold This Valentine's Day, After Iconic 153-Year History
Can it even be the season of love without Sweethearts conversation hearts? Sadly, we're about to find out. Despite being the nation's most popular Valentine's Day candy, as reported by CandyStore.com, the original hearts won't be produced ahead of the Feb. 14 holiday this year. While similar conversation hearts exist, the iconic brand is taking a break.
According to Better Homes and Garden, Sweethearts candy hearts were first created in 1866, although the Necco version we love dates back to 1902. Last year, Necco shut down and sold the SweetHearts and Necco Wafers brand to Spangler Candy Company. It used to take Necco 11 months to produce 8 billion conversation hearts, and Spangler simply didn't have enough time to make the candy in 2019.
But don't lose hope! Spangler's CEO said the classic candy hearts will be available again in 2020. In the meantime, we'll be looking for noncandy valentine gifts this year, while our broken hearts heal.
These Hysterical Curse-Word Oven Mitts Are Perfect For Moms Who Love to Say "F*ck!"
Finding the perfect birthday or holiday gift for your mom can be really f*cking hard, especially when it seems like she has every possible mug or candle on the face of the planet. But do you know what she probably doesn't have? An oven mitt with curse words on it. Yep, they exist out there in this crazy, creative world, and you can buy them online for just $14 - what a deal! With phrases like "F*ck this sh*t" and "B*tches get stuff done" printed alongside pretty illustrations, these funny kitchen accessories were made for the mama in your life who loves to let the swear words fly while baking or cooking away. You can shop these one-of-a-kind oven mitts ahead, along with other non-curse-word options from the same collection that are equally as sassy.
13 Funny Valentine’s Day Gifts For Moms Who Appreciate a Good F-Bomb
Parenthood is no easy task. We all take our responsibilities as caretakers seriously, but sometimes you need to let off some steam . . . and if that means letting out an F-bomb or two, then so be it. So if you have a mom who swears in your family, chances are the type of Valentine's Day gift she's going to respond to is one emblazoned with her favorite expletives. Here are 13 totally inappropriate - but perfect - gifts for your foul-mouthed love.
Dad on Coparenting With His Fiancée's Ex-Husband: "We Have Molded Ourselves Into 1 Unique Family"
Willow Grace is one lucky girl - she has three loving parents: a mom and two dads. In a handful of photos taken by her mom, Sarah of Willie + Rose Photography, Willow can be seen with her two dads - her biological father, David (right), and her "bonus dad," Sarah's fiancé, Dylan (left) - and you can just tell from the photos how much love these two men have for their little girl.
"I want him to feel like he's here when he's not."
David lives in New Mexico while Sarah and Dylan live in Texas with 5-year-old Willow and their 2-year-old daughter, Tatum, but even with a 14-hour drive between them all, that doesn't stop David from being fully involved in his daughter's life. "Coparenting with Dylan and David has been pretty easy because we keep our communication super open," Sarah told POPSUGAR. "We FaceTime almost every day with David and we send texts and pictures and videos of Willow to keep him in the loop constantly and so that he can watch her grow up when he's not physically there. I think that's been important to all of us - communication is the key to making this work. I let David know everything. I want him to feel like he's here when he's not."
In addition to communicating while they're all apart, Sarah says David comes up to visit as much as his job allows him to, and they handle holidays however it makes sense for them so it works for all parties. And it's not just Willow who gets the benefit of two dads when David's around - Tatum loves him, too, and even calls him Dad. "He walked through the door the other day and brought both girls doughnuts, and she ran down the hall screaming, 'Dad!'" Sarah said. Dylan added: "Anytime he leaves - even if he's just going to the store while he's here - when he comes back she reacts like it's me coming home from work. It's almost that whole Golden Retriever vibe - whenever they see their owner, they just get excited."
"We're aware that this is a unique dynamic, but I couldn't be happier about it," Sarah said. "It wasn't easy at first; we had to work at it. I had to personally put my feelings aside and make Willow a priority with everything. As adults, it's our responsibility to be the parent and put our kids first - and not let our feelings affect our children." Dylan wrote on Facebook: "We have molded ourselves into one unique family, if only for the sake of our children to know the power of love. Not only did I gain a daughter, I gained a brother and a best friend. . . This is real, and this is us."
And for anyone wondering, Dylan said, "FYI David is SINGLE."
I Decorate For Valentine's Day Almost as Much as I Decorate For Christmas, and My Kids Love It
I've never been one to celebrate Valentine's Day. In past relationships, I didn't need to be totally swept off my feet, and in the 10 years my husband and I have been married, I think we've celebrated once. To me, it's a bit of a hallmark holiday that tends to make some people feel sad, and I just couldn't get into all of the sappiness. That is, until I had kids.
Our house looks a little obnoxious and definitely not Joanna Gaines-approved, but it's exactly the way I like it.
Now it feels like we celebrate the holiday throughout the entire month of February. The first thing we do to kick-start the month of love is decorate the house (with almost as much enthusiasm as we do for Christmas), and it's a tradition I can't get enough of.
Related: I Buy Gifts For My Kids on Valentine's Day Because They're the Loves of My Life
Now that my children are 6 and 4, we have a pretty hefty stash of crafts specifically geared toward Valentine's Day. They've made little love ladybugs, cows, bunnies, and hearts over the years that I just can't part with. Instead, each year, we dig out all the goodies and I let the kids place them around the house. On the walls, fireplace mantel, and doors, you'll find little Valentine's Day creations made out of pink and red construction paper, paper plates, and even toilet paper rolls. Our house looks a little obnoxious and definitely not Joanna Gaines-approved in February, but it's exactly the way I like it. It brings a little cheer to our mid-Winter blues, and we don't stop there, either.
If you can get into the Dollar Store ahead of time, you can score some pretty fantastic finds before they're picked over. I like taking the kids, too, because they have so much fun picking out a few knick-knacks to decorate the house with. Plus, because I'm a sucker for crafts, they usually have all the supplies we need for my kids to continue making their annual art projects, which I then add to the bin for next year when the holiday is over. It's a little family tradition we started that they look forward to.
Related: Baby Shark Has a Valentine's Day Song, So You May Want to Cover Your Ears Until Feb. 15
While my husband and I still don't regularly celebrate Valentine's Day just the two of us, we now celebrate together as a family. To see my kids' faces light up each year fills me with all that sappy love I used to hate about the holiday. By decorating almost every inch of the walls with crafts from years past, the love blooms within our home. And while that's ever so cheesy, it couldn't make us happier.
The 40 Best Noncandy Valentine Ideas For Kids
Hold off on the conversation hearts this year! There comes a point where little ones just can't (or shouldn't) consume another morsel of sugar. These adorable DIY greetings require little more than a printer, scissors, and some glue to give tots a treat that will last well beyond February 14.
Check out 40 of the most creative ideas for sharing the Valentine love - minus the sugar!
Carrie Underwood's Baby Is Here, and His Name Goes Perfectly With His Brother's
Carrie Underwood has welcomed her second child! The singer shared the news of her son's Jan. 21 birth on Instagram, along with his adorable name: Jacob Bryan Fisher.
Although Carrie and Mike Fisher's first child, Isaiah, has a name that ranks pretty high on the Social Security Administration's list of popular boys' names - it's been hovering between No. 39 and 47 on the top names list since 2000 - Jacob is actually a much more popular name. Between 2000 and 2012, Jacob was the No. 1 boys' name, and though it's dropped to No. 10 as of 2017, it's still trendy as ever!
Plus, both popular names sound amazing when put together - Isaiah and Jacob Fisher rolls off the tongue, doesn't it? Congratulations, Carrie and family!
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