Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
samedi 2 mars 2019
All the Houseplants That Are Good For You, Your Home, and Most Importantly, Your Pets!
If you have a furry friend lounging around your house, chances are you don't want them to get sick due to the simple pleasure of owning a houseplant they can get sick from eating. Although this is a responsible way of thinking, there is something to say about the stress-reducing, air-cleansing, and overall positive qualities that houseplants bring to the table - aside from their decor - that make us feel good. So if you've been avoiding plants all of these years, we have a solution: nontoxic plants. They're trendy, beneficial, and of course, pet-friendly. Turn your home into a lush green forest in no time!
Take Our 150-Day Journaling Challenge - It Only Takes a Few Minutes a Day!
Writing is a fantastic way to relieve stress and self-reflect. We've come up with 150 different prompts for you to respond to each day for 150 days. These aren't meant to be completed with one word or sentence, either. Really take the time, even if it's just a few minutes, to provide thoughtful answers. You'd be surprised at what you learn about yourself by the end! Take our daily journal challenge, ahead.
- Additional reporting by Nicole Yi
50 Ways to Feel Better About Yourself Right Now
When you're feeling down, turn things around with a few tips and tricks for thinking about things differently. No need to wallow when there are quick and simple ways to feel better about yourself. Feeling down can be triggered by a bad hair day, not being able to get over a mistake, or waking up 10 minutes late. Stop beating yourself up and try one of these suggestions.
- Additional reporting by Sarah Lipoff
Martha Stewart Is Creating CBD Products For Pets, and It's Kind of Brilliant
Lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart already has an impressive list of accomplishments on her résumé - who doesn't love her cooking show with Snoop Dogg? - and it turns out she's nowhere near done exploring new ventures. According to CNBC, Martha has teamed up with marijuana grower Canopy Growth to create hemp-derived products for pets. She will work in an advisory capacity and will help develop the line.
"I am delighted to establish this partnership with Canopy Growth and share with them the knowledge I have gained after years of experience in the subject of living," Stewart said. "I'm especially looking forward to our first collaboration together, which will offer sensible products for people's beloved pets." If you've ever spent time on her Instagram feed, you know how much she loves her pets, so this is a great idea!
These Are the Sleeping Habits You Might Have Based on Your Zodiac Sign
When it comes to sleeping patterns, everyone is different. Sure, it'd be pretty awesome if you could fall asleep in under five minutes every night and stay asleep until your alarm goes off (I don't know how some people do this!), but a lot of people often have trouble sleeping, whether it's struggling to fall asleep or becoming restless throughout the night. No matter which category you fall into, your tendencies may be impacted by the zodiac. There are certain sleeping patterns that may be more probable based on your zodiac sign, so if you're curious, read on and see what the stars have laid out for you.
We Can't Stop LOLing Over These Dogs Who Called the Cops 16 Times Because They Wanted Attention
'Ruff' day for Lakeville dogs that called 911 five times https://t.co/ZFkMfHjCWz
- Lakeville Police (@LakevillePD_MN) February 21, 2019
Remy and Bomber, two crafty pups from Minnesota, were recently up to no good. According to the Lakeville Police's Twitter account, the dogs were in dire need of attention last week. Their solution? Calling the local police department 16 times!
When local officers Michelle Roberts and Emily Bares arrived at the house, they were stumped. The door was locked and it seemed like no one was home. Regardless, the pair knew something was seriously up.
"By the time we got there they had gotten three more 911 calls in that span of time," Michelle told The Dodo. "In a couple of [the calls] they heard dogs barking in the background, but no human voices at all."
2 dogs + 1 cell phone = 3 911 calls to dispatch. Did you two really need a potty break that bad? Pups advised of proper 911 etiquette. pic.twitter.com/piOp9zDhHo
- Lakeville Police (@LakevillePD_MN) February 21, 2019
Determined to figure out what was wrong, the officers did a lap around the property as the calls kept coming in. Eventually, they found the homeowner's cell phone number and got their garage code.
"I was more concerned because I thought there was a human in there who can't talk or move and just keeps calling for help," said Michelle. "I never thought it was the dogs, that's for sure."
Finally, the police entered and were met with a surprising sight. "They barked at first and then they were a little timid," said Michelle. "But that didn't last very long. They just wanted to be pet and they were super friendly."
As for how the dogs actually pulled the stunt off? Michelle thinks the 45-pound hound mix stood on his hind legs to reach a forgotten cell phone that was left on a home office desk. "It was on 'emergency call only,' so the dogs would have only had to hit the screen with their paw or their nose and that would have enabled them to call 911," explained Michelle.
Unsurprisingly, the dogs' owner was left completely shocked by the situation. "He didn't believe it was the dogs at all until he heard the 911 tape with the dogs barking in the background and you can tell they're really close," Michelle said. "Then he seemed kind of baffled. The homeowner did take the phone into AT&T to find out if there was anything wrong with the phone. They confirmed that there was not."
When all was said and done, the dispatcher received 16 calls from the duo. And although Michelle has spent 20 years on the force, she admits this was a first for her. "It is kind of unheard of for them to be up to those kinds of shenanigans," she said. "It's mind-blowing, really."
This Is the Best Way to DIY Clean a Couch (Because You Definitely Should)
When it comes to household cleaning - whether you have an apartment or a house - there are certain items that tend to get overlooked. While cleaning things like floors, windows, and countertops seems obvious, other items we use every day can fly under the radar . . . at least until an obvious stain appears. And one of these items that probably doesn't get enough attention on chore day is your couch. While professional cleaning is always an option depending on the grubbiness of your couch, DIY cleaning is great in a pinch or as part of your regular cleaning routine. But if you're not sure where to start, keep reading for simple (but thorough) tips.
Related: Here's Exactly How to Hand-Wash Your Favorite Sweaters So They Don't Ruin or Stretch
1. Read Your Couch's Label
Before you do anything, it's important that you take a minute to locate the label on your couch. Unless your couch is particularly old, the label should have one of four letter codes on it: W (water safe), WS (a combination of dry cleaning and water), X (no water, only use a vacuum), and S (dry clean only). If your couch has a W on the label, it's safe to clean by yourself.
2. Vacuum Your Couch
If possible, take all of your couch cushions off your couch, and vacuum everything. Make sure to pay attention to cracks, nooks, and crannies where crumbs and other messes might be hiding, and vacuum each cushion as well. You can use a brush attachment if your couch is covered in pet hair and a stiff brush for any really grimy areas that your vacuum isn't strong enough to clean. If you have removable covers, check the labels on your couch cushion covers and, if they say it's safe to do so, you can throw them in the washing machine.
3. Deep Clean With Baking Soda
Baking soda is safe for most fabrics, but you can test it before attempting to clean your entire couch if you're unsure. When you know it won't leave a stain, sprinkle your whole couch with baking soda, and let it sit for up to 30 minutes. This will help to remove most of the grime, as well as removing unwanted, lingering odors from your couch.
4. Clean Tough Stains
For bigger, tougher stains that the baking soda didn't completely remove, use a homemade cleaning solution, and blot with a clean cloth. For fabric upholstery, combine 3/4 cup of warm water, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and one tablespoon of dish soap in a spray bottle. For couches made of synthetic materials, combine one cup of warm water, 1/2 cup of vinegar, and 1/2 tablespoon of dish soap in a spray bottle. Be sure to blot them with clean water after applying the cleaning solution, then dry them with a towel before reassembling and using your couch again!
Is Romance or Heartache on the Horizon? Read Your 2019 Love Horoscope to Find Out
The new year is almost upon us, and that means it's time for brand-new opportunities in different aspects of life, with love and relationships being a high priority for many of us. The people we spend our lives with romantically really impact our well-being and happiness, as finding that special someone can provide comfort, care, and support through life's challenges. And that person also likely brings fun, laughter, and sweet little kisses to brighten your day. However, on the flip side, sometimes romantic relationships end, making room for that new person to arrive within the coming year. The good news is the zodiac offers predictions to help us navigate our love lives in 2019. Here's your 2019 love horoscope from astrologer Skye Alexander, the author of more than 40 books, including Magickal Astrology and The Modern Guide to Witchcraft.
100+ Photos That Are All the Inspiration You Need to Have a Green Wedding
A beautiful wedding consists of more than just a glamorous dress and pretty venue. A wedding's color scheme holds high importance by creating the ultimate cohesion of the wedding theme. With green being the color of renewal, growth, and harmony, there's a reason so many brides incorporate it into their big day. With some help from our friends at Be Inspired, we've pulled together our favorite green wedding pieces. From glowing green dresses to green-studded cakes, these wedding ideas will inspire you to go green too.
Related: This Luxurious Montreal Wedding Will Take Your Breath Away With Its Elegant Charm
Watch Out For These Signs That Someone on a Dating App Is Married or Taken
If you're single and browsing the dating app world, you're probably in the market for other single ladies and fellas out there to chat with online. You're most likely not interested in meeting people who are in committed relationships or are married when browsing nonaffair sites like Tinder or Bumble. Unfortunately, you never know who is really behind that profile. Earlier this year, Tinder crashed nationwide, and there was a surge in Ashley Madison by 20 percent with new member sign-ups in both the US and the UK. Why? Well, according to a 2015 survey of around 1,282 active Tinder users (at the time there were around 50 million people on Tinder), nearly 30 percent of Tinder users are married, while another 12 percent are in a relationship. Yikes. While this was a small sampling, and who really knows if people tell the truth in those kinds of surveys, it is a good reminder to keep your guard up when you're dating online. Don't fall for liars on Tinder and other dating apps - prepare yourself with these tips. Here are the red flags to look out for that someone you meet on a dating site is either married or taken.
The Bride Was the Belle of the Ball in This Beauty and the Beast-Themed Engagement Shoot
Lydia and Patrick celebrated their engagement by emulating Beauty and the Beast in this gorgeous themed photo shoot that took place at the Dayton Art Institute in Ohio. Photographer Sarah Babcock was there to capture these cute moments between the couple, and she said that the day was "a romantic cosplay Beauty and the Beast engagement session." Lydia wore a stunning golden gown with pleated detailing to channel her inner Belle, and it looked straight out of the Disney fairy tale. Patrick wore a royal blue tailcoat embellished with golden buttons and embroidery with matching pants and white knee-length socks.
The pair then swapped their costumes for matching baby-blue outfits to pose at a secondary outdoor location with an "And they lived happily ever after" sign to stick with the fairy-tale theme. Lydia even posed with some books, which was a nod toward Belle's love of reading in Beauty and the Beast. See the gorgeous photos from this fantastical engagement shoot ahead.
It's Written in the Stars - the Hot Wedding Theme of 2019 Is All Things Celestial
Starry-eyed lovers, the wedding of your dreams awaits, thanks to these celestial wedding ideas. This year's big wedding theme trend is all about star and moon motifs, astrological signs, ethereal romance, and the sparkly night sky. With dreamy decor and out-of-this-world-beautiful bridal pieces, it's no wonder this theme has people starstuck.
Ahead, we've found some of the most stunning products from Etsy that you need to throw your own celestial-themed wedding. From star-adorned accessories like hair pins, jewelry, and veils to cake toppers and confetti, here's everything you need for the wedding of your dreams.
Watch 40 of the Sexiest Country Music Videos Ever Made
We've rounded up 40 of the absolute hottest, pickup-truck-makeout country music videos that have ever been created. And after you watch them - which may result in passing out from these these country singers' hotness - listen to our sexy country playlist for even more boot-knockin' good times.
How TV Producer Melody Myers Embraces Being a Woman of Color in the Financial Field
You often hear about certain industries being dominated by straight, white men - technology, business, science, etc. And while there is still much to be done to diversify many fields of work, it's hard to ignore the tremendous strides people of color - particularly women of color - have been making to bring fresh narratives and mindsets to the professional realms. One of those women? Melody Myers, an associate television producer for a financial media outlet in New York.
Nearly three years ago, 24-year-old Myers broke into the industry after graduating from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She started as an intern for her current company - after members from her college's chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists encouraged her to apply - and has worked her way up to associate producer. Now, she's pitching commerce-related ideas to her team, helping to produce show segments, booking guests, tracking financial market trends, and assembling research packets for on-air anchors. Although Myers is aware that there aren't many visible black women in her line of work, she doesn't see her identity as a setback or disadvantage - quite the opposite, actually; it's her superpower.
"We're very quick to say, 'I'm black, and I'm a woman - that's two strikes against me,'" Myers told POPSUGAR. "But because my experiences differ from a white male or someone else of another background, I'm able to give another angle that might not have been thought of. I also feel like, shoot, if I already stand out, you have no excuse to not remember me." But Myers also noted that women of color often experience moments of doubt because of their identities. "You always have that inner dialogue with yourself, like 'Do I do this? Do I not do this? How am I going to be perceived or thought about?'" she added. "But at a certain point, you just have to say 'whatever, forget it.' I want to do the best job possible and be the best whoever I am possible."
Image Source: Nigil Crawford
Myers recently experienced that bit of second-guessing before deciding to pitch a story about Lauren Simmons, a 24-year-old black woman who is making history and a name for herself in the fiscal field. In 2017, Simmons became the youngest and only full-time female trader at the New York Stock Exchange as well as the second black person to hold such a position in the NYSE's history.
"At a certain point, you just have to say 'whatever, forget it.' I want to do the best job possible and be the best whoever I am possible."
"I thought this would be great with a good angle of diversity," Myers recalled when she brought the story idea to her manager. "You have someone who's young and a woman of color, and I related that with me being a woman of color, as well. That's a really big deal." Thankfully, Myers's coworkers were receptive and supportive of the idea, and Myers was able to make it come to fruition and have Simmons be a guest on the show.
It's that type of victory Myers remembers when she's encouraging other black women to apply for positions they might not feel equipped or adequate enough for. "I just try to encourage people to apply for what they want," she said. "Don't say 'no' just because you're not sure how you're going to do. Always try. Don't hesitate to do something outside of your comfort zone because that's what I did when I went after this job."
One of the biggest benefits of representation in the workplace is the impact of inspiration, Myers emphasized. If someone from an underrepresented group sees someone like them living out their dream career, then that can galvanize their aspirations and encourage them to aim high. Then suddenly, barriers will be broken, glass ceilings will be shattered, and the world will see a colorful range of experiences.
"Even if you're scared to get into a space that's dominated by one specific group, do it anyway," she said. "Put yourself in that room because you provide a valuable viewpoint that other people might not have. Don't let the fear of being the only one or one of few keep you from embracing what could be an amazing opportunity because you don't know where that could lead you and how that can open doors and inspire other women of color."
102 Tiny Tattoos For Big-Time Besties
Take your friendship to the next level and get a tattoo with your BFF! If you're looking for something that's not too over the top, we have found some tiny tattoos that are downright adorable. Check out these small but mighty options with your bestie.
- Additional reporting by Macy Williams
These 10 Plane Activities Will Keep Any Kid Entertained from Takeoff to Touchdown
If you're looking forward to hitting the beach or sightseeing in a new city but dreading the flight, you're not alone. Flying with kids can be daunting for parents. It's easy for children to become restless after a couple of hours stuck on your lap or in their own seats, and if another passenger glares at you, it can make you want to disappear. But there's good news! It doesn't have to be the most difficult part of your trip. With a little research and preparation, you can make the plane ride painless for everyone. Try one of these handy tricks to entertain your child and ensure a (more) peaceful taxi, takeoff, and landing.
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.
These 100+ Feminist Gifts Celebrate Iconic Women in History
Rule-breakers, leading ladies, and fierce feminists: the women who have shaped history are nothing short of heroic. From Shirley Chisholm, the first black woman elected to the United States Congress, to Gloria Steinem, who led full-on revolutions, the females who fought for equal laws, fair representation, and overall respect deserve more appreciation and admiration than they get. This Women's History Month, we rounded up the coolest products that highlight notable women in all ages of history. Here's to f*cking awesome females. Shop them on Etsy now!
The New Game of Thrones Posters Hint That Jon Snow's Life Could Be in Serious Danger
The premiere of the eighth and final season of Game of Thrones is nearly upon us, and in anticipation of its debut, HBO has been busy getting fans suitably hyped with everything from stunning stills from the new episodes to an ominous teaser trailer. But it's the batch of regal new character posters that have us (and a few other fans) worried about Jon Snow's future on the fantasy epic. Will he survive long enough to claim the throne, or will he suffer a fate similar to that of his father/uncle, Ned Stark?
As you can see in the image on the above left, the season one poster for the show features the ill-fated Stark patriarch holding his sword and glancing towards the floor while sitting on the Iron Throne. It's remarkably similar to the recently released poster spotlighting Kit Harington's Jon Snow on the throne, who is posed nearly identically to the dearly departed Ned: he's holding his sword with two hands stacked on top of each other, his legs are slightly splayed, and he's leaning ever-so-slightly to the side.
There has been plenty of foreshadowing regarding Jon's character - especially since a weathered statue in the teaser seemed to hint that he would age into adulthood, presumably taking the throne - but is this similar pose in the poster a hint about what his fate will be by the time the six episodes wrap up (i.e. he has his head lopped off by a Lannister), or merely a coincidence? Perhaps it's simply a nod to his roots as a Stark (regardless of the Targaryen blood that also runs through his veins).
It is worth noting, though, that despite the similarities between Ned and Jon in the posters, there is one key difference. While Ned has his eyes turned downward, looking at the floor (and appears sad, almost), Jon is staring, defiantly, directly into the camera; one might read that as Ned being resigned to his fate from the beginning, whereas Jon is ready for a fight.
See the posters up close ahead to see if you spot any details we missed, and then keep scrolling to see what fans are saying about Jon and Ned's case of twinning, plus some of the other Stark posters.
A Million Little Things: Jon's Connection to Barbara Morgan Has Finally Been Revealed
Warning: BIG spoilers for A Million Little Things ahead!
We were hooked on A Million Little Things from the very early moments of that emotional series premiere, but no one could have predicted that the level of mystery in the tear-jerking drama would keep audiences coming back and ultimately propel the show to a second season. Among the many questions left unanswered: who is Barbara Morgan, and why would Jon make her a beneficiary on his life insurance after his suicide?
"Twelve Seconds," which aired back on Jan. 31, revealed a pretty solid clue. In the final moments of the episode, Jon's wife, Delilah, and friend Gary learn that Jon had purchased a building for sentimental reasons, hopeful that its value would skyrocket when a new subway stop opened nearby. When they arrive at the address, they discover that Jon had lived there before he met his wife - and they spot a familiar scene from his apartment window. The view matches a painting Jon had hung up across from Gary's chemo chair during his treatments for breast cancer. The two then head to the hospital, where they find the artist's signature at the base of the painting: "B. Morgan."
Jon had hoped the painting of boats on the water would inspire Gary to keep up the fight, by helping him envision a cancer-free future and the experiences it would bring - moments they would share together. So, what does this have to do with Barbara Morgan? First, it's clear that Barbara spent time in Jon's home, signaling that they may have been in a relationship of some kind (not necessarily romantic). Beyond that, we know that Jon lived with consuming guilt in the years before he took his own life, and Jon said that when tragedy struck, he "abandoned" her. He wouldn't make the same mistake with Gary, and in the days or weeks before his death, he chose to leave Barbara a portion of the life insurance to help care for her.
So, just who is she? We finally get the answer in the show's season one finale. After Delilah finds a photo of Barbara in Jon's things, she decides to go over to her home and demand answers. Fortunately Barbara relents and fills her in.
Barbara explains that when she and Jon were younger, she dated Jon's roommate and best friend, Dave. The pair were as close as brothers, so it made sense that Jon would invite him along to a real estate conference he had one weekend. Unfortunately Jon ended up missing their flight because he was grabbing a last-minute bottle of wine, but Dave made it on board. Jon called his buddy to say he'd grab the next flight out, but then comes the twist: the day this all went down was Sept. 11. Jon and Dave were supposed to be board American Airlines Flight 11 together, but only Dave made it, meaning he soon perished when the plane flew into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Jon and a flight attendant (named Sophie, FYI) watch the news in horror, crying.
Cut to a few months later, and we see Jon and Barbara meeting up at the airport gate on what would've been Dave's birthday. Barbara reveals that she's pregnant, but has gotten engaged to a first responder who plans on raising the child as his own. Jon is furious, telling her that it's too soon and that it's disrespectful to Dave's memory. They part on bad terms, and it's the last time they ever see each other.
Now, what Jon wrote about dying long before he met Delilah makes sense; he suffered from an immense amount of survivor's guilt. Making matters worse, he kept this chapter of his life hidden from his friends and family, so he never had the chance to recover from the trauma. (As a reminder, he once told his assistant Ashley that his greatest regret was purchasing a bottle of wine he still kept in that old apartment, which is essentially an admission that he wishes he'd been on that plane, too.)
There were plenty of theories about who Barbara Morgan might be leading up to the finale's grand reveal, but they all boiled down to this: Jon was a man who cared deeply for those around him but couldn't conquer his own demons. And now, we know why.
12 Grey's Anatomy Episodes Where Sandra Oh Shone as Cristina Yang
Sandra Oh has been making fanfare all throughout award season with her spectacular performance as Eve Polastri on BBC America's sexy crime thriller, Killing Eve. Besides this career-defining role, many TV viewers may know Oh from ABC's Grey's Anatomy as the tough-as-nails heart surgeon Cristina Yang, who might be more of a straight-talker than Eve, but is just as wonderfully nuanced. Oh graced the medical drama for ten seasons, portraying arguably one of the best characters on the show (and on television).
While Grey's fans love Meredith's sisterhood with Maggie and Amelia, it's hard to ever forget the brilliance that is her person, Cristina, who supports her, pushes her, and above all, always gives her the unadulterated truth. Here are 12 Cristina Yang-centered episodes of the series that showcase Oh's talent, whether you're looking to relive Grey's finest moments or want to learn about this seminal role without having to binge 300+ episodes of the never-ending series.
BRB, Still Crying Over All the Shows Netflix Has Canceled in 2019
It's a fact of life for every TV viewer: Netflix giveth, and Netflix taketh away. While the streaming giant is constantly adding new titles to its vast library and launching brand new shows to enjoy, there's also the disappointment when your favorite movie leaves Netflix or a great show gets canceled.
In 2019, several longtime favorites and big-name shows will be coming to an end - or already have aired their final episodes. Between surprising cancellations and long-planned series finales, 2019 is already shaping up to be a year of major endings on Netflix. Ahead, check out all the TV series that Netflix has canceled so far in 2019, and see which ones still have a few episodes left to wrap things up.
9 Fun Facts About Alicia Keys That Will Make You Love Her Even More
Alicia Keys: doting mother, insanely sexy badass female, and all-around phenomenal musician. Those are probably the top three things you know about this New York City native, but there's more to this multiplatinum-selling Grammy winner than just that. For more on Alicia, keep reading.
- She started her career as an actress. You may know Alicia is a powerhouse songstress, and no doubt she is, but she actually started her time in the spotlight way back in 1985 - in an episode of The Cosby Show. She played one of Rudy's friends in an episode titled "Slumber Party."
- She has 15 1/2 Grammys. Yes, 15 1/2. Technically Alicia has won 15 Grammy Awards, but at the 2005 Grammy Awards, John Mayer broke his Grammy in half to give half to her because he felt her song "If I Ain't Got You" deserved to win song of the year over his song "Daughters."
- She was valedictorian. Not only did Alicia graduate from Professional Performing Arts School in New York early at age 16, but she graduated at the top of her class, earning the valedictorian title.
- Alicia started playing piano when she was 7. The talented pianist, who even played two pianos simultaneously at the 2019 Grammys, started studying the instrument when she was just 7 years old. She went on to write her first song at age 14.
- She set a record with her National Anthem performance at the Super Bowl. Alicia's stunning rendition of the "Star-Spangled Banner" at the 2013 Super Bowl wasn't just beautiful - it was also the longest on record. Her version of the song clocked in at 2:40, because not only did she perform a liltingly slow version of the song, but she also added her own riff at the end, making the song longer than any other.
- She's big on philanthropy. Alicia cofounded the nonprofit Keep a Child Alive and has participated in fundraisers like Shelter from the Storm: A Concert For the Gulf Coast and America: A Tribute to Heroes. She's even performed at benefit concerts including Live 8, Live Earth, and those for Hurricane Katrina victims.
- She has two sons. Alicia is mom to sons Egypt and Genesis and stepmom to husband Swizz Beatz's three other children, Kasseem Jr., Nicole, and Prince.
- She's released seven studio albums. Since 2001, Alicia has dropped seven studio albums, two live albums, one EP, and countless singles. She's sold more than 20 million albums in the US alone and about double that if you count the rest of the world.
- She was super sick at her first Grammys. At her first Grammy Awards in 2002, Alicia recalled being incredibly sick with a head cold and congestion. She told People recently, "We had to work some wonders, vitamin B, something, to get me to sing for three minutes. It was equally exhilarating and terrifying." It all ended up working out, though, and she not only nailed her performance spectacularly, but took home her first five Grammys as well.
10 Amazon Original TV Shows You've Been Overlooking This Whole Time
Think Netflix holds the monopoly on binge-friendly TV shows? Think again! When it comes to original programming, Netflix may have more to offer, but that doesn't mean that Amazon Prime's original shows are any less awesome. Amazon was the first streaming service to win a Golden Globe for best series when Transparent won in 2015, and it also became the first streaming service to have a movie nominated for Best Picture when Manchester by the Sea was nominated for 2017's Academy Awards. If you're looking for a new favorite show this year, read on to see the 10 best series to stream on Amazon in 2019.
The Masked Singer's Winner Reveals Why He "Felt So Bad" About Taking the Top Prize
Warning: spoilers for the season finale of The Masked Singer below!
After a long, bizarre few weeks of guessing which celebrities were behind the furry, colorful, outlandish costumes on The Masked Singer, the singing reality competition has finally crowned its winner: T-Pain!
Despite becoming famous for being a rapper fond of autotune, the 33-year-old "Buy U a Drank" musician is actually a very, very talented singer, as evidenced by his many performances on the show. (We also highly recommend checking out his gorgeous appearance on NPR's Tiny Desk Concert series.) Although he told E! News that he felt like he "was in a damn fever dream" when they announced he'd won, he also explained why he feels just a little bit guilty.
"That was a strange feeling! I felt so bad, I did not want to win, but I felt good winning. But, you know, it came with a price," T-Pain said, referencing his win over music industry icons Donny Osmond (the Peacock) and Gladys Knight (the Bee). "Winning! Like, what?! Did that just happen? I didn't think I was going to get [past] the first episode, so getting that far and doing all that, oh man, I didn't know what the hell was going on. I just went with it . . . But it worked out, I loved it."
While it might seem like the heavy burden of keeping the secret for so long and the physical burden of wearing that hefty blue costume would be annoying for most people, the Grammy winner has taken it all in stride, revealing that he was initially attracted to the idea of competing because he's always been interested in the characters who roam around amusement parks. "Now I don't have to wonder anymore," he said. "One thing off my bucket list!"
T-Pain also noted that he viewed the reality show as a way to get his voice out there on a different "platform" and that he hopes the show will teach people not to "judge celebrities just because you think you know them." He added:
"Don't think you know what they can do, look deeper into the actual person and not just their single. [Laughs.] It would be great to just have a broader view on things. What I want people [to] walk away thinking of me is I don't take myself super seriously, I can have fun in a stupid-ass costume, and I just want people to know I've got something in there. I've made all these hits all these years, got to have some kind of talent under there."
Read the full interview with T-Pain over on E! News, then keep scrolling to see the best moments from his big reveal on Wednesday night's finale.
Meet the Star-Studded Cast of Dolly Parton's Netflix Series
Dolly Parton is as busy as ever! The legendary country singer-songwriter, who was most recently honored at the Grammys with a star-studded tribute, is hard at work on her next project. Heartstrings, an anthology series, is set to debut on Netflix later in 2019. The concept of the show is to highlight some of Parton's most iconic songs, telling standalone stories with different settings and characters to underline the themes of each song. Parton is executive producing the series and is set to appear in each episode in some capacity as well, and she's assembled a huge cast of stars to tell each of the eight stories. We've rounded up some of the biggest names attached to the project, plus a few details that we know so far about who they're playing - click through our gallery below!
She's Back! Pippa Middleton Makes First Official Appearance Since Welcoming Her First Child
She's back! Just four months after welcoming her first child with husband James Matthews, Pippa Middleton stepped out for her first official appearance at the Beating Hearts Ball in London on Wednesday. The ball is in support of The British Heart Foundation, and the 35-year-old mom is the foundation's honorary gala chair and ambassador. Dressed in a red and black Temperley dress, Pippa looked radiant as she flashed a big smile for the cameras. Wow, that post-baby glow is real! Even though James didn't hit the red carpet with Pippa, according to People, he was in attendance.
Pippa and James tied the knot back in May 2017 and became parents to a baby boy named Arthur Michael William this past October. Even though this marks Pippa's first red carpet appearance since giving birth, she and James went Christmas Caroling with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle over the holidays, and the couple rang in the new year with a fun trip to St. Barts. We still have yet to get a glimpse of baby Arthur, but something tells us he's adorable!
The 14 Best Teen Movies Currently Streaming on Netflix
It's one of the great paradoxes of entertainment: although most of us would probably never want to relive our high school years, we do love to relive them vicariously through movies about teenagers, coming of age, and the high school experience. Netflix has never had any shortage of teen movies - from comedies to dramas and even musicals, the streaming platform has curated a great collection of the best teen movies from the past few decades. And, of course, they've developed their own library of sweet, funny teen rom-coms, at least one of which has done well enough to earn a sequel! The next time you feel like watching a fun teen movie, check out one of our favorites from the gallery below!
Chloë Grace Moretz on "Twisted Fairy Tale" Greta and Its Unconventional Horror Film Ending
If any universities out there are looking for someone to teach a class on how to properly scare the sh*t out of audiences with a horror film, I highly recommend giving Chloë Grace Moretz a call.
The 22-year-old star has been sending chills down audiences' spines ever since her very first role at just 5 years old, when she played young Chelsea Lutz in The Amityville Horror. She's followed it up with hair-raising appearances in everything from Matt Reeves's 2010 vampire chiller Let Me In to her blood-soaked outing as the titular telekinetic in the 2013 Carrie reboot. Now, she leads Greta, the Neil Jordan-directed psychological thriller that's terrifying enough to make you never want to speak to a stranger again.
As Frances, Moretz comes across as wholesome, sweet, and just a bit naive, which is what makes her easy prey for Greta Hideg (Isabelle Huppert). When Frances finds a green handbag on the subway while coming home from her job waiting tables in New York City, she does what any well-adjusted, kind human would do, against the advice of her cynical roommate (Maika Monroe): Frances digs out the license inside, goes about returning the bag and its contents to its rightful owner, and strikes up a deep mother-daughter friendship with the lonely Greta (OK, maybe not everyone would do that last bit).
But when Frances discovers Greta has multiple versions of the same (chic, not gonna lie) handbag in her home, which she plants around the city in hopes of luring young women to her Brooklyn home, Frances realizes the sweet, older French woman she's been having dinner with might want to, at worst, wear her skin as a coat and, at best, lock her away in a secret room forever. So, you know, not exactly great choices for poor Frances.
In a playing field filled with recycled revivals of old horror films, Greta stands out for a number of reasons, chief being Moretz's excellent, nightmare-inducing performance. I recently hopped on the phone with the actress to get the lowdown on everything from both of the film's wild twists (yes, both) to THAT finger scene.
Warning: Spoilers for Greta are discussed below, so tread carefully.
POPSUGAR: The first thing that really struck me about Greta was how all the main characters are women - Greta, Frances, and Erica - which isn't something that you necessarily see much in the horror genre. I was wondering if that was something that specifically appealed to you when you first read the script?
Chloë Grace Moretz: Most definitely. I think it was, for me, a really wonderful opportunity to subvert the horror genre. So casting the Anthony Hopkins character as Isabelle Huppert, casting the boyfriend character as Maika Monroe, and being able to depict that onscreen was I think a lot more interesting. It was a massive thing that drew me to the project.
PS: I love how the villain is this unassuming, petite older woman who you wouldn't suspect to be a terrifying, twisted killer, and the same can even be said of Erica (Monroe's character), getting to be the hero at the end. But can you talk a little bit about the dynamic between Frances and Greta, and how you see it evolving throughout the film?
"When you get sucker punched with the reality of her obsession, it is as heartbreaking as it is terrifying."
CGM: Sure. That was something that we really wanted to get right from the beginning of the film in creating the relationship between Isabelle and I and knowing [director] Neil [Jordan]'s history, looking at Interview with a Vampire and In Dreams and his other films, you can really see that he loves this macabre fantasy, this twisted fairy tale he creates. But at the heart of his stories, in the through-line of his stories, is always the real, important, realistic personal relationships between his characters. That's why you hold true, that's why you stick through. With this one we really wanted to create this relationship between Isabelle and I that felt authentic and beautiful, so when you get sucker punched with the reality of her obsession, it is as heartbreaking as it is terrifying.
PS: It's funny you describe it as a fairy tale, because Frances is so much like a fairy tale character. She's so innocent and kindhearted, and it's easy to watch her and be like, "I would never do that. I'm not naive enough to do that kind of thing." But the film does such a good job of showing how trusting the wrong person can end up the way Frances does, in a box.
CGM: Very much so, completely. You never know really who you're letting into your life, and especially if you are someone like Frances, who I think continues to try and live her life in a fairly positive way. She's fairly naive but I think she is trying to see the good in people around her and those that she lets in her life. That is a double-edged sword, that when you are that open, you're also opening yourself up to potential disparity in the darkness you're bringing in.
PS: So, I want to talk a little bit about the twist at the end. Or at least, the second twist, with Erica coming to Frances's rescue, because, again, it felt pretty fresh to see the two of you victorious at the end, rather than the male PI bursting in and saving you. Was that the ending that was always going to happen in the script?
CGM: Yeah, that was always one of the big twists in the script. That, and the double dream were the big twists in the script. And those were things that I know Neil really loved from the beginning, but we really wanted to show that in the story, really confuse the audience, I think. So, it was important to be able to do a movie like this with three women at the helm. Usually you wouldn't see this depicted that way, and that was exciting for all of us. All of us were lucky to have the chance to play really fully-fleshed out characters, which is a massive step forward in a genre that is very male-dominated.
PS: Exactly. You're also coming off of Suspiria, which, again, features so many women in all the main roles. Do you enjoy this genre personally? Are you a big scary movie fan?
CGM: Definitely. Well, my first film I ever did was The Amityville Horror when I was 5-and-a-half years-old. And moving forward, doing Let Me In and then doing Carrie and then Suspiria and this . . . I've always loved, I think, the darkness. Especially in cinema, I think, the genre's a really wonderful way to depict interpersonal relationships, but to also fill seats with a breadth of audience members that are going to buy a ticket no matter what because they're massive fans of horror. But then taking in really intricate and intense storytelling, which I think the genre really lends itself well to if done correctly.
PS: There are so many scenes in Greta that freaked me out, but the claustrophobia I felt watching Frances get locked in that box was the worst. What was filming that like?
CGM: I'm genuinely claustrophobic in real life, so for me to film that scene, it was incredibly brutal. But Isabelle was an awesome partner to do that with, and she was so sweet and so kind. And Neil was so wonderful. He shut down the set and he kept it nice and quiet and really took his time with me so as to not freak me out too much.
PS: And the cookie cutter scene!
CGM: [Laughs.] Yeahhh.
PS: Was it as gross as it looked?
CGM: It's so spooky. We had a fun time playing with that appendage, though. I remember we had several different prosthetics hanging around and we would hide them in catering, in different random candy bowls and coffee cups. We had that pop up in quite a few places. [Laughs.]
PS: So you and Isabelle had a fun time on set, when you weren't trying to kill each other onscreen?
CGM: It was incredible! I mean, she's such a wonderful woman and we became close friends after making the film. We had a great time playing around [on set] and then jumping into these crazy moments. And I really try to not take things very seriously when we're doing movies like this to try and keep as much levity as possible in the moments of depravity. So we found it important to remind ourselves to keep laughing.
Greta is now in theaters.
4 Major Plot Points the Big Little Lies Stars Have Revealed About Season 2
It's safe to say that we're more than a little excited about the big return of Big Little Lies. With intriguing new characters (hello, Meryl Streep!) and insane new drama, the second season of the hit HBO show has sparked tons of speculation - especially since this season will be continuing the story of Liane Moriarty's original novel (which means we have no idea what will happen next!). Moriarty did pen the new story that season two will be based on, so you can rest assured that it is just as juicy. She and the Monterey mom-squad are divulging as little information as possible, but here's what we've gathered so far about what we can expect when the latest season premieres in June.
1. We'll Learn a Lot More About Bonnie
If you've been dying to know more about Bonnie (who's played by Zoë Kravitz), then you're in luck. Bonnie's character development was explored much more in Moriarty's novel than it was on season one, detailing her complicated childhood history. When Moriarty first spoke about her ideas for the second season, she said that developing the untold story of Monterey's hippest mom was one of her first instincts. "The obvious thing is, first of all, I think we could bring in more of Bonnie's story from the book," she told The Sydney Morning Herald.
Kravitz also mentioned that she's glad to see Bonnie getting a larger role. "Now [we're] revealing who she is, why she is the way she is, and why she did what she did," she told Refinery29. "I don't think you will be disappointed." One thing we know for sure: we're going to meet Bonnie's parents. Though they unfortunately won't be played by Kravitz's real-life parents, Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet, we'll instead get to see Martin Donovan from Weeds and newcomer Crystal Fox take on the roles of Martin and Elizabeth Howard.
2. Renata Gets Welcomed Into the Fold
It seems that trouble-making mom Renata (played by Laura Dern) will finally put aside her differences with the other Monterey mothers and join their girl gang after what went down at the end of season one. As Laura Dern said, it's "thrilling for Renata to have any friends," since the usually abrasive mom will finally get a chance to open up for once. Reese Witherspoon added that it's "really cute" to see Renata bonding with the other ladies, breaking down the divide between the working moms and stay-at-home moms. "Dern's character is so excited that she has girlfriends!" she said. "And she wants to hang out and drink wine." Don't we all?
3. Perry Will Return
Wait just a second - isn't Perry dead? Though Alexander Skarsgard's character, Perry Wright, seemingly died at the end of season one, the actor was playfully cryptic when asked on the Golden Globe Awards red carpet if he'll return for the series' second season. "I don't even know if I'm really dead or not," he said. "I feel OK right now but we'll see." Skarsgard confirmed the rumors that he appeared on set for season two on The Tonight Show, but he was tight-lipped about whether his character appears as a flashback in the second season or even at all. "I don't want to get in trouble," he told host Jimmy Fallon. "I was on set, yes. But I can't disclose what I did on set." It sounds like we haven't seen the last of Celeste's despicable husband.
4. Celeste and Her Mother-in-Law Get Close
If you haven't already heard (where have you been?), Meryl Streep is taking on the role of Mary Louise, mother of Perry and mother-in-law of Nicole Kidman's Celeste, who comes to Monterey looking for answers about her son's death. Though it looks like Mary Louise and Witherspoon's Madeline will have a major showdown involving an ice cream cone, she and Celeste might actually bond despite the tension involving Perry's death. During the show's panel at the 2019 Winter Television Critics Association press tour, Streep kept pretty quiet about the dynamic between Mary Louise and Celeste, but when Kidman turned to her and said, "You love me," Streep agreed. "I do love you and I do love her," she said. "And that's the only thing I'll tell you."
Is Romance or Heartache on the Horizon? Read Your 2019 Love Horoscope to Find Out
The new year is almost upon us, and that means it's time for brand-new opportunities in different aspects of life, with love and relationships being a high priority for many of us. The people we spend our lives with romantically really impact our well-being and happiness, as finding that special someone can provide comfort, care, and support through life's challenges. And that person also likely brings fun, laughter, and sweet little kisses to brighten your day. However, on the flip side, sometimes romantic relationships end, making room for that new person to arrive within the coming year. The good news is the zodiac offers predictions to help us navigate our love lives in 2019. Here's your 2019 love horoscope from astrologer Skye Alexander, the author of more than 40 books, including Magickal Astrology and The Modern Guide to Witchcraft.
100+ Photos That Are All the Inspiration You Need to Have a Green Wedding
A beautiful wedding consists of more than just a glamorous dress and pretty venue. A wedding's color scheme holds high importance by creating the ultimate cohesion of the wedding theme. With green being the color of renewal, growth, and harmony, there's a reason so many brides incorporate it into their big day. With some help from our friends at Be Inspired, we've pulled together our favorite green wedding pieces. From glowing green dresses to green-studded cakes, these wedding ideas will inspire you to go green too.
Related: This Luxurious Montreal Wedding Will Take Your Breath Away With Its Elegant Charm
Watch Out For These Signs That Someone on a Dating App Is Married or Taken
If you're single and browsing the dating app world, you're probably in the market for other single ladies and fellas out there to chat with online. You're most likely not interested in meeting people who are in committed relationships or are married when browsing nonaffair sites like Tinder or Bumble. Unfortunately, you never know who is really behind that profile. Earlier this year, Tinder crashed nationwide, and there was a surge in Ashley Madison by 20 percent with new member sign-ups in both the US and the UK. Why? Well, according to a 2015 survey of around 1,282 active Tinder users (at the time there were around 50 million people on Tinder), nearly 30 percent of Tinder users are married, while another 12 percent are in a relationship. Yikes. While this was a small sampling, and who really knows if people tell the truth in those kinds of surveys, it is a good reminder to keep your guard up when you're dating online. Don't fall for liars on Tinder and other dating apps - prepare yourself with these tips. Here are the red flags to look out for that someone you meet on a dating site is either married or taken.
The Bride Was the Belle of the Ball in This Beauty and the Beast-Themed Engagement Shoot
Lydia and Patrick celebrated their engagement by emulating Beauty and the Beast in this gorgeous themed photo shoot that took place at the Dayton Art Institute in Ohio. Photographer Sarah Babcock was there to capture these cute moments between the couple, and she said that the day was "a romantic cosplay Beauty and the Beast engagement session." Lydia wore a stunning golden gown with pleated detailing to channel her inner Belle, and it looked straight out of the Disney fairy tale. Patrick wore a royal blue tailcoat embellished with golden buttons and embroidery with matching pants and white knee-length socks.
The pair then swapped their costumes for matching baby-blue outfits to pose at a secondary outdoor location with an "And they lived happily ever after" sign to stick with the fairy-tale theme. Lydia even posed with some books, which was a nod toward Belle's love of reading in Beauty and the Beast. See the gorgeous photos from this fantastical engagement shoot ahead.
It's Written in the Stars - the Hot Wedding Theme of 2019 Is All Things Celestial
Starry-eyed lovers, the wedding of your dreams awaits, thanks to these celestial wedding ideas. This year's big wedding theme trend is all about star and moon motifs, astrological signs, ethereal romance, and the sparkly night sky. With dreamy decor and out-of-this-world-beautiful bridal pieces, it's no wonder this theme has people starstuck.
Ahead, we've found some of the most stunning products from Etsy that you need to throw your own celestial-themed wedding. From star-adorned accessories like hair pins, jewelry, and veils to cake toppers and confetti, here's everything you need for the wedding of your dreams.
Watch 40 of the Sexiest Country Music Videos Ever Made
We've rounded up 40 of the absolute hottest, pickup-truck-makeout country music videos that have ever been created. And after you watch them - which may result in passing out from these these country singers' hotness - listen to our sexy country playlist for even more boot-knockin' good times.
2019 Is Your Year to Travel Like a Pro, Thanks to These 31 Life-Saving Products
Even if you're a seasoned travel pro, heading off on a new adventure can be stressful. To make sure you ditch your drama of tangled cords and missing passports, we scoured the internet and uncovered over 30 insanely genius travel products you've probably never heard of and will never be able to live without again. Keep scrolling to shop for your next getaway.
- Additional Reporting by Hilary White
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