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.
dimanche 19 janvier 2020
19 Cool Mules That Are About to Dominate Your 2020 Wardrobe
Over wearing sky-high heels and classic flats? We have a solution for you. This year, invest in something in between: a pair of stylish mules. These chic shoes are ideal for the office, date night, and beyond. The best part: they come in so many different styles and usually have a reasonable heel height, so you can last all day in them. To make sure you get your dream pair, we shopped the internet and uncovered the hottest picks of 2020. Keep reading to shop our top picks.
19 Stylish Work Bags That Will Make Your Morning Commute So Much Easier
If you've been on the hunt for a stylish new bag for work, you've come to the right place. Not only do you want something that looks cute, but it's also important to choose one that fits all your daily must haves comfortably. We searched the internet for you and uncovered the best commuter bags of the year that are both useful and chic.
From brands like Everlane, Madewell, and Tory Burch, you're bound to fall in love with at least one. We have no doubt they will improve your daily commute to the office, the gym, and beyond. Keep reading to shop our top picks and find your match.
Only Stream These 80+ Movies on Netflix If You Like Drop-Dead Sexy Guys
If you're in the mood to watch a movie that stars a sexy guy, we get it. Thankfully, Netflix gets it, too. The streaming service's current 2020 lineup is the gift that keeps on giving, blessing us with some of the hottest eye candy that we've yet to see. We did the dirty work and rounded up 80 movies available on Netflix that feature the most smoldering men around for a shameless movie night in. Some of these characters are being romantic, some are showing off their guns (and abs) in action movies, and some are pure evil (in a really hot way), but what they all have in common is, well, we want to jump their bones. We can't vouch for the quality of all these movies, but we can say that the actors starring in them are nothing short of sexy. Pass the remote . . .
Looking for even more Netflix recs? Check out more movies and TV shows that are available on Netflix in January here.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes and Lauren Harano
Related: 62 Exciting Movies and TV Shows You Can Watch on Netflix in August
Only Stream These 80+ Movies on Netflix If You Like Drop-Dead Sexy Guys
If you're in the mood to watch a movie that stars a sexy guy, we get it. Thankfully, Netflix gets it, too. The streaming service's current 2020 lineup is the gift that keeps on giving, blessing us with some of the hottest eye candy that we've yet to see. We did the dirty work and rounded up 80 movies available on Netflix that feature the most smoldering men around for a shameless movie night in. Some of these characters are being romantic, some are showing off their guns (and abs) in action movies, and some are pure evil (in a really hot way), but what they all have in common is, well, we want to jump their bones. We can't vouch for the quality of all these movies, but we can say that the actors starring in them are nothing short of sexy. Pass the remote . . .
Looking for even more Netflix recs? Check out more movies and TV shows that are available on Netflix in January here.
- Additional reporting by Haley Lyndes and Lauren Harano
Related: 62 Exciting Movies and TV Shows You Can Watch on Netflix in August
19 Cool Mules That Are About to Dominate Your 2020 Wardrobe
Over wearing sky-high heels and classic flats? We have a solution for you. This year, invest in something in between: a pair of stylish mules. These chic shoes are ideal for the office, date night, and beyond. The best part: they come in so many different styles and usually have a reasonable heel height, so you can last all day in them. To make sure you get your dream pair, we shopped the internet and uncovered the hottest picks of 2020. Keep reading to shop our top picks.
19 Stylish Work Bags That Will Make Your Morning Commute So Much Easier
If you've been on the hunt for a stylish new bag for work, you've come to the right place. Not only do you want something that looks cute, but it's also important to choose one that fits all your daily must haves comfortably. We searched the internet for you and uncovered the best commuter bags of the year that are both useful and chic.
From brands like Everlane, Madewell, and Tory Burch, you're bound to fall in love with at least one. We have no doubt they will improve your daily commute to the office, the gym, and beyond. Keep reading to shop our top picks and find your match.
Liam Hemsworth Has a PDA-Filled Beach Day With GF Gabriella Brooks After Settling Divorce
It looks like Liam Hemsworth has a new lady in his life! Following his split from Miley Cyrus and brief romance with Maddison Brown, the 30-year-old actor was spotted on a PDA-filled beach date with 23-year-old model Gabriella Brooks in Byron Bay, Australia, on Jan. 13. The couple looked smitten as they snuck in a kiss and played around in the sand.
Liam and Gabriella were first linked together in December 2019, and according to People, things are getting "serious." "Liam and Gabriella have spent a lot of time in Australia together," a source told the publication. "Liam has been in a great mood." In fact, Gabriella has reportedly already met Liam's parents, Craig and Leonie Hemsworth, and his brothers, Chris and Luke.
Liam's newfound romance comes less than a month after he and Miley reached a divorce settlement. The duo broke up in August 2019 after less than one year of marriage, though their divorce won't be finalized until March. Miley, on the other hand, has since moved on with Cody Simpson, and despite recent breakup rumors, they're still going strong.
These 66 Teen Movies on Netflix Will Take You Back to High School
Netflix has upped its teen movie game in recent years, and the results have been delightful to say the least - come on, you know you've watched The Perfect Date at least a dozen times by now, too. There's no doubt that the streaming service is reawakening our love for teen movies, and thankfully there are tons of unforgettable titles about high school, friendships, and first love tucked away in its library. In fact, there are so many funny, heartbreaking, and downright classic movies about teens available to stream, you could spend the next few months channeling your 16-year-old self. From new favorites to '80s classics, these are the best teen movies streaming on Netflix right now.
Looking for even more Netflix recs? Check out more movies and TV shows that are available on Netflix in January here.
- With Haley Lyndes, Hannah Abrams, Lauren Harano, and Corinne Sullivan
Related: 50+ Thrillers on Netflix That Take Terrifying to a Whole New Level
Ready For More of Cheer on Netflix? Here's the Latest Scoop on a Possible Season 2
The Netflix docuseries Cheer has rallied a huge squad of fans behind it already - so what are the odds of getting a season two? Right now, there's no official word from the streaming service about whether or not they're planning to keep up with the Navarro cheer team, but based on what we've seen so far, we'd say the prospects are looking pretty good!
Cheer, like pretty much every single Netflix original show, has to wait a little while after its debut for the company to make a decision about renewal. In most cases, news about renewal comes within a few months, so it could be later this Spring before Netflix makes an official announcement. However, Cheer is getting the kind of online buzz that very few shows - and even fewer documentaries that aren't true crime - get in today's incredibly fractured media landscape. That's definitely working in its favor, and although social media buzz doesn't necessarily correlate to viewing numbers, it does at least suggest that Cheer is making a big impression right off the bat.
This wouldn't be the first time Netflix has followed a college-based sports team for multiple years, even after the original "stars" move on. Last Chance U, which has a similar format to Cheer but follows college football teams instead of a cheer squad, has had four seasons so far and is still running. That show shifted focus after a couple of years at one college to follow a new team, with a whole new set of players and coaches for the audience to get to know. Cheer could potentially do something similar, although we're pretty sure they'd stick with Navarro for at least one more year!
At the very least, there's a good chance we'll know by no later than this April whether or not Cheer is getting a second season. The NCA College Nationals are scheduled to take place April 8-12, so if Cheer is coming back, you can bet Netflix crews will be back to filming by the time that major event rolls around! Until then, we'll have to wait and see.
185 Upcycling Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind
If you're the kind of person who hates throwing anything away, we are right there with you. 2020 is a year where sustainability should be at the front of mind, which means there's no better time to turn your unwanted items into gorgeous DIY projects. From reusing old wine corks to create beautiful table-settings to transforming mason jars into rustic chandeliers, these ideas ensure that nothing goes to waste. After all, one person's trash is another's treasure, right? Read ahead to get inspired by these DIY ideas for ordinary household objects now.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Emily Co
15 of the Most Radical Signs From the 2020 Women's March
Demonstrators all over the world gathered on Jan. 18 to fight for their rights during the annual Women's March. This is the fourth year in a row that the movement has taken place, and it made an impact across the globe from London to Los Angeles.
Unsurprisingly, the signs from the event were once again a major highlight and can serve as inspiration for marches to come. From clever catchphrses and pop culture references, to poignat political statements, these posters are worth checking out ever yet. Ahead, see a few of our favorite creative signs from the Women's March 2020.
Related: Lipslut Is Launching a Bold and "Outspoken" Lipstick in Support of the Women's March
Liam Hemsworth Has a PDA-Filled Beach Day With GF Gabriella Brooks After Settling Divorce
It looks like Liam Hemsworth has a new lady in his life! Following his split from Miley Cyrus and brief romance with Maddison Brown, the 30-year-old actor was spotted on a PDA-filled beach date with 23-year-old model Gabriella Brooks in Byron Bay, Australia, on Jan. 13. The couple looked smitten as they snuck in a kiss and played around in the sand.
Liam and Gabriella were first linked together in December 2019, and according to People, things are getting "serious." "Liam and Gabriella have spent a lot of time in Australia together," a source told the publication. "Liam has been in a great mood." In fact, Gabriella has reportedly already met Liam's parents, Craig and Leonie Hemsworth, and his brothers, Chris and Luke.
Liam's newfound romance comes less than a month after he and Miley reached a divorce settlement. The duo broke up in August 2019 after less than one year of marriage, though their divorce won't be finalized until March. Miley, on the other hand, has since moved on with Cody Simpson, and despite recent breakup rumors, they're still going strong.
185 Upcycling Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind
If you're the kind of person who hates throwing anything away, we are right there with you. 2020 is a year where sustainability should be at the front of mind, which means there's no better time to turn your unwanted items into gorgeous DIY projects. From reusing old wine corks to create beautiful table-settings to transforming mason jars into rustic chandeliers, these ideas ensure that nothing goes to waste. After all, one person's trash is another's treasure, right? Read ahead to get inspired by these DIY ideas for ordinary household objects now.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Emily Co
These 66 Teen Movies on Netflix Will Take You Back to High School
Netflix has upped its teen movie game in recent years, and the results have been delightful to say the least - come on, you know you've watched The Perfect Date at least a dozen times by now, too. There's no doubt that the streaming service is reawakening our love for teen movies, and thankfully there are tons of unforgettable titles about high school, friendships, and first love tucked away in its library. In fact, there are so many funny, heartbreaking, and downright classic movies about teens available to stream, you could spend the next few months channeling your 16-year-old self. From new favorites to '80s classics, these are the best teen movies streaming on Netflix right now.
Looking for even more Netflix recs? Check out more movies and TV shows that are available on Netflix in January here.
- With Haley Lyndes, Hannah Abrams, Lauren Harano, and Corinne Sullivan
Related: 50+ Thrillers on Netflix That Take Terrifying to a Whole New Level
Ready For More of Cheer on Netflix? Here's the Latest Scoop on a Possible Season 2
The Netflix docuseries Cheer has rallied a huge squad of fans behind it already - so what are the odds of getting a season two? Right now, there's no official word from the streaming service about whether or not they're planning to keep up with the Navarro cheer team, but based on what we've seen so far, we'd say the prospects are looking pretty good!
Cheer, like pretty much every single Netflix original show, has to wait a little while after its debut for the company to make a decision about renewal. In most cases, news about renewal comes within a few months, so it could be later this Spring before Netflix makes an official announcement. However, Cheer is getting the kind of online buzz that very few shows - and even fewer documentaries that aren't true crime - get in today's incredibly fractured media landscape. That's definitely working in its favor, and although social media buzz doesn't necessarily correlate to viewing numbers, it does at least suggest that Cheer is making a big impression right off the bat.
This wouldn't be the first time Netflix has followed a college-based sports team for multiple years, even after the original "stars" move on. Last Chance U, which has a similar format to Cheer but follows college football teams instead of a cheer squad, has had four seasons so far and is still running. That show shifted focus after a couple of years at one college to follow a new team, with a whole new set of players and coaches for the audience to get to know. Cheer could potentially do something similar, although we're pretty sure they'd stick with Navarro for at least one more year!
At the very least, there's a good chance we'll know by no later than this April whether or not Cheer is getting a second season. The NCA College Nationals are scheduled to take place April 8-12, so if Cheer is coming back, you can bet Netflix crews will be back to filming by the time that major event rolls around! Until then, we'll have to wait and see.
15 of the Most Radical Signs From the 2020 Women's March
Demonstrators all over the world gathered on Jan. 18 to fight for their rights during the annual Women's March. This is the fourth year in a row that the movement has taken place, and it made an impact across the globe from London to Los Angeles.
Unsurprisingly, the signs from the event were once again a major highlight and can serve as inspiration for marches to come. From clever catchphrses and pop culture references, to poignat political statements, these posters are worth checking out ever yet. Ahead, see a few of our favorite creative signs from the Women's March 2020.
Related: Lipslut Is Launching a Bold and "Outspoken" Lipstick in Support of the Women's March
If You Know Nothing About Marvel's Morbius, This Quick Guide Is For You
The first official trailer for Morbius has dropped, and we know you have lots of questions. On the surface, it's a new superhero/supervillain movie much in the pattern of your standard-issue "mad scientist" stories, but there's a lot more happening than that. Morbius isn't necessarily a household name the way that other comics characters are, so there's a lot more we don't know about him off the bat. If you're curious about the character's comics history, his superpowers, or how he links up (or doesn't) to other Marvel films, we've got answers! Keep reading for the answers to five of the biggest burning questions we've got after watching the trailer.
15 Rising Female Artists Who Are About to Be All Up in Your 2020 Playlists
Approximately 40,000 songs are uploaded to Spotify's platform daily. That means nearly 280,000 tracks weekly, and 1.1 million monthly on Spotify alone. With all this new music constantly being released, it's more than likely that some songs have flown under your radar. To help you navigate the massive world of the music industry, we rounded up 15 of our favorite up-and-coming female producers, singers, and songwriters to revamp your playlists. Our suggestions range from emerging indie-pop acts like Cray and R&B gems like Alina Baraz to hype-queens like Rico Nasty. Get ready to turn up the volume!
You Can Do This 20-Minute HIIT Workout Anywhere and Burn Major Calories
If you're looking for a way to stay fit, but you're short on time and space, high-intensity interval training may be just what you need to get started. HIIT combines intense bursts of exercise with rest periods, allowing you to work out for shorter bouts, while still burning a huge amount of calories. It's touted as one of the most effective workouts for weight loss. And you don't need a ton of space or expensive equipment to do it.
To start, try this 20-minute HIIT workout, designed by Lyuda Bouzinova, an ACE-certified personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and cofounder of Mission Lean. "If you keep the intensity high throughout the workout, you'll also get your body into a state of EPOC (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption), also known as the afterburn effect," she told POPSUGAR. "That means you've revved up your metabolism and you'll be burning calories long after the workout is over." Keep reading for the details.
20-Minute, No-Equipment HIIT Workout
Directions: Do the workout on an empty stomach, if you can - this will keep you light on your feet, and because you're not exercising for an extended period of time, the energy already stored in your muscles will be sufficient. You'll do a short warmup, followed by three sets of high-intensity moves that work the whole body. Do each of the exercises in the set back-to-back, with no rests in between, then take a short, two-minute break between sets. "These short breaks will ensure that your heart rate stays elevated and you are burning extra calories during your workout," Lyuda said.
Exercises:
- Burpees: 8 reps
- Tricep dips: 15 reps
- Snap jumps: 8 reps
- Leg raises: 15 reps
- Lunge jumps: 8 reps each side
- Sumo squat: 15 reps
185 Upcycling Ideas That Will Blow Your Mind
If you're the kind of person who hates throwing anything away, we are right there with you. 2020 is a year where sustainability should be at the front of mind, which means there's no better time to turn your unwanted items into gorgeous DIY projects. From reusing old wine corks to create beautiful table-settings to transforming mason jars into rustic chandeliers, these ideas ensure that nothing goes to waste. After all, one person's trash is another's treasure, right? Read ahead to get inspired by these DIY ideas for ordinary household objects now.
- Additional reporting by Lauren Harano and Emily Co
15 of the Most Radical Signs From the 2020 Women's March
Demonstrators all over the world gathered on Jan. 18 to fight for their rights during the annual Women's March. This is the fourth year in a row that the movement has taken place, and it made an impact across the globe from London to Los Angeles.
Unsurprisingly, the signs from the event were once again a major highlight and can serve as inspiration for marches to come. From clever catchphrses and pop culture references, to poignat political statements, these posters are worth checking out ever yet. Ahead, see a few of our favorite creative signs from the Women's March 2020.
Related: Lipslut Is Launching a Bold and "Outspoken" Lipstick in Support of the Women's March
samedi 18 janvier 2020
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Swag Out Like Beyoncé and JAY-Z in This Sublime Illustration
Image Source: Obi Arisukwu
Have you ever stumbled across an Instagram post so glorious, you damn near drop your phone? Well, I just did, and it's worthy of a royal honor. On Jan. 17, LA-based illustrator and cartoonist Obi Arisukwu shared one of his latest works featuring Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. The illustration shows the Duchess and Duke of Sussex assuming the roles of Beyoncé and JAY-Z in the cover art for their 2018 hit "Apesh*t" from their album Everything Is Love. While cartoon Meghan rocks Bey's low-cut pastel blazer, Harry drips swag in blue suiting and a gold chain inspired by JAY-Z's look. In the background, a portrait of Princess Diana hangs proudly. "When Black royalty meets British royalty," Obi captioned the sublime piece. "An ode to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to rebel due to the toxicity they've experienced in the UK."
Not only is the illustration a reference to Harry and Meghan's recent break from the royal family, but it's also a callback to the couple's connection with Beyoncé and JAY-Z. Back in February, Bey and Jay delivered a tribute to Meghan while accepting their Brit Award for best international group. Shortly after, Beyoncé posted a special shout-out to the duchess on her website, calling her "one of our Melanated Monas." The two queens and their husbands finally met in July at the UK premiere of The Lion King, where Bey and Meghan shared a warm embrace. We have no choice but to support!
Bella Hadid's Ruched Dior Ensemble at Paris Fashion Week Is Worthy of Cruella de Vil
Cruela de Vil has finally met her fashion match in the form of Bella Hadid's stylish outfit at Paris Fashion Week. While attending the Dior Homme Menswear Fall/Winter 2020-2021 show on Friday, Bella rocked a ruched Christian Dior black coat over a matching turtleneck and fitted trousers - and something tells me the 101 dalmatians would be shaking because of how stylish she looks. Yes, Cruella is a villain, but the only thing villainous about this look is that Bella's newspaper print gloves probably cost more than my monthly rent. She also paired the look with a silver chain-link necklace and a pair of Nike low top sneakers. Keep scrolling to take a closer look at Bella's wickedly cool outfit from all angles ahead.
Don't Break the Bank! Give Her What She Wants This Valentine's Day For $50 and Under
From dreamy accessories to little luxuries, we found the most romantic (and affordable!) Valentine's Day gifts for the girl on your list. Whether you're looking for that perfect present for your BFF, roommate, or SO, these V-Day treats are sure to give her heart eyes for months to come. With everything from picture-perfect selfie rings lights to top-shelf skincare essentials for the beauty-enthusiast in your life, these sweet gifts are affordable enough to get one for every Valentine's Day celebration you have. Shop our curated list of affordable 2020 Valentine's Day gifts ahead!
- With Lauren Harano, Haley Lyndes, India Yaffe, and Macy Cate Williams
I'm Halfway Through This 4-Week Fitness Program, and My God, My Glutes
Last week I kicked off the new year by giving the POPSUGAR Fitness 4-Week Full-Body Fusion program a shot. The plan is available exclusively on Glow by POPSUGAR, and to briefly summarize my experience so far, these short, at-home workouts are impressive. I loved the pace and variety built into that first week, as well as the energy of the trainers. Despite working out for six of those first seven days, I was ready to jump right back into it this week. It just goes to show that you can work out in a smart, recovery-focused way, so you aren't hobbling around, feeling too sore and fatigued to keep up your healthy routine.
Needless to say, I was excited to roll out my yoga mat and join these familiar faces on my living room TV screen again. (One of my favorite features of this program is the Apple TV app, though you can also watch the workouts on a phone, tablet, or computer!) Here's exactly how it went.
Bella Hadid's Ruched Dior Ensemble at Paris Fashion Week Is Worthy of Cruella de Vil
Cruela de Vil has finally met her fashion match in the form of Bella Hadid's stylish outfit at Paris Fashion Week. While attending the Dior Homme Menswear Fall/Winter 2020-2021 show on Friday, Bella rocked a ruched Christian Dior black coat over a matching turtleneck and fitted trousers - and something tells me the 101 dalmatians would be shaking because of how stylish she looks. Yes, Cruella is a villain, but the only thing villainous about this look is that Bella's newspaper print gloves probably cost more than my monthly rent. She also paired the look with a silver chain-link necklace and a pair of Nike low top sneakers. Keep scrolling to take a closer look at Bella's wickedly cool outfit from all angles ahead.
Don't Break the Bank! Give Her What She Wants This Valentine's Day For $50 and Under
From dreamy accessories to little luxuries, we found the most romantic (and affordable!) Valentine's Day gifts for the girl on your list. Whether you're looking for that perfect present for your BFF, roommate, or SO, these V-Day treats are sure to give her heart eyes for months to come. With everything from picture-perfect selfie rings lights to top-shelf skincare essentials for the beauty-enthusiast in your life, these sweet gifts are affordable enough to get one for every Valentine's Day celebration you have. Shop our curated list of affordable 2020 Valentine's Day gifts ahead!
- With Lauren Harano, Haley Lyndes, India Yaffe, and Macy Cate Williams
I'm Halfway Through This 4-Week Fitness Program, and My God, My Glutes
Last week I kicked off the new year by giving the POPSUGAR Fitness 4-Week Full-Body Fusion program a shot. The plan is available exclusively on Glow by POPSUGAR, and to briefly summarize my experience so far, these short, at-home workouts are impressive. I loved the pace and variety built into that first week, as well as the energy of the trainers. Despite working out for six of those first seven days, I was ready to jump right back into it this week. It just goes to show that you can work out in a smart, recovery-focused way, so you aren't hobbling around, feeling too sore and fatigued to keep up your healthy routine.
Needless to say, I was excited to roll out my yoga mat and join these familiar faces on my living room TV screen again. (One of my favorite features of this program is the Apple TV app, though you can also watch the workouts on a phone, tablet, or computer!) Here's exactly how it went.
Don't Break the Bank! Give Her What She Wants This Valentine's Day For $50 and Under
From dreamy accessories to little luxuries, we found the most romantic (and affordable!) Valentine's Day gifts for the girl on your list. Whether you're looking for that perfect present for your BFF, roommate, or SO, these V-Day treats are sure to give her heart eyes for months to come. With everything from picture-perfect selfie rings lights to top-shelf skincare essentials for the beauty-enthusiast in your life, these sweet gifts are affordable enough to get one for every Valentine's Day celebration you have. Shop our curated list of affordable 2020 Valentine's Day gifts ahead!
- With Lauren Harano, Haley Lyndes, India Yaffe, and Macy Cate Williams
Twitter Is Practically Ready to Give Cheer's Coach Monica a Nobel Peace Prize
There are a lot of things we love about Netflix's Cheer, but coach Monica Aldama has to be at the very top of the pyramid. The coach of the Navarro College cheer team, whose ups and downs we get to follow throughout the docuseries, is already a viral sensation for her tough, fearless approach that has turned the squad from a small Texas college into a national powerhouse. And honestly? We're a little afraid of her, and we also totally want to be her at the same time. We're definitely not alone in wishing Monica would come whip our lives into shape the way she presides over her squad - keep reading for some of the best reactions Twitter has to offer!
Not Finding Out Our Baby's Gender Was One of The Best Decisions We Ever Made
Before my daughter was even a thought, I assumed that when I got pregnant, I would find out the gender of the baby. Duh – it's the 21st century. We don't have to sit around waiting and wondering anymore. Plus, how else would I plan the nursery and registry or pick a name? To my surprise, when I did become pregnant, the thought of finding out if I was expecting a boy or girl stressed me out, so I decided to hold out on knowing exactly who was on the way for nine months.
The idea was first planted when my coworker revealed that she hadn't found out the gender of either of her kids. This shocked me. I didn't expect that people were still living this way in the 2010's. This nugget of information stayed tucked away until the news of my own pregnancy rallied my family around this idea that I would be bringing forth the family's first little boy. We already had two little girls on my husband's side of the family, and the household I grew up in was dominated by females. On both sides of the family, the chatter was around this little boy on the way, and an unrealistic feeling of pressure started mounting on my shoulders.
What was going to happen if the doctor told us we were having a girl? Would my husband feel let down? Would the rest of the family be less excited about yet another girl? Maybe it was those crazy pregnancy hormones that were driving these thoughts, but regardless, I didn't want there to be an ounce of disappointment around my pregnancy or birth, and there was no way anybody could be disappointed once the baby was here, boy or girl. We would be blessed to deliver a happy, healthy baby, and that's all that mattered to me. So I decided it would just be less anxiety-inducing to get through those nine months without knowing the gender. What I also didn't know was that this decision would bring me, a Type-A individual who lives life according to my planner, unexpected peace.
For months, my friends bombarded me with questions. "Aren't you dying to know? Isn't it driving you crazy that you don't know? How are you even preparing for this baby if you don't know if it's a boy or girl?" Contrary to popular belief, preparing for a baby whose gender you don't know is actually quite simple. My husband and I collaborated on a list of boy names and girl names. Our list of boy names was initially much more extensive, but we narrowed it down to three. As far as baby girl names went, there was only one we could agree on. Throughout my pregnancy, we affectionately referred to our bump as "Littlebit." Although we didn't know whether we were expecting Littlebit Baby Girl or Littlebit Baby Boy, we spoke to Littlebit every day, bonding and building excitement over whoever was going to make a debut.
We planned to turn our guest room into Littlebit's room. Our guest room was painted a deep orange color (stick with me here) that was the perfect backdrop for our gender-neutral jungle safari theme. There was no need for pink or blue - we instead turned to green, yellow, white, and gray to accentuate the zebras, giraffes, lions, and monkeys. It would be perfect for whomever arrived on delivery day.
Setting up our registry was easy: We registered for items in neutral colors or items that complemented our jungle safari theme. Our family threw us an amazing backyard coed baby shower. It was laid back, fun, and focused on celebrating our Littlebit. We were gifted unisex onesies, jungle themed stuffed animals and toys to match Littlebit's room, lots of yellow, green, and white towels and linens, and gift cards. We were inundated with love and with gifts, and the entire day created even more excitement and suspense as my due date quickly approached.
It was around 10:30 at night when my water broke and the countdown to meet Littlebit began. After a fiercely fast labor and delivery, Littlebit was here. As the doctor and nurses scrambled to clean up, stitch me up, and get up to leave the room, my husband and I basked in a life-altering surprise. We were now the parents of a baby GIRL! In that time after her birth, we were shocked that she was here, but in hindsight, I should have known that anyone coming three days late, then taking only 4 hours and 44 minutes to arrive would be a girl - she was determined to do life on her own dramatic terms! Before the prospect of motherhood, I had always envisioned myself as a "boy mom," but to this day, I could not see my life with anyone other than my Lucy Littlebit.
For anyone thinking about waiting to find out the gender - I say just do it! There aren't many true surprises in life anymore, and this one is truly priceless. Pregnancy, in all of its glory and discomfort, really does fly by, so before you know it, you will know whether you have a son or daughter. People love guessing the gender, and this helps build suspense and excitement. I've found that during pregnancy, people love contributing unsolicited advice and words of wisdom. If you don't know whether you're having a girl or boy, you'll cut out much of the noise people will sell you about "the drama of having girls" or "the stress of having boys". It also takes your personal focus away from preparing to be a "girl mom" or a "boy mom" and all of the stereotypes and biases that come with that; instead, you can prepare for just being the best darn mom you can be.
We are so excited to be expecting for the second time. This pregnancy, we again decided not to find out the gender of the baby. We teach Lucy that she will have a baby brother or sister, and we will find out in a few months just who it is. And as a family, we get to gear up for another superb surprise!
Twitter Is Practically Ready to Give Cheer's Coach Monica a Nobel Peace Prize
There are a lot of things we love about Netflix's Cheer, but coach Monica Aldama has to be at the very top of the pyramid. The coach of the Navarro College cheer team, whose ups and downs we get to follow throughout the docuseries, is already a viral sensation for her tough, fearless approach that has turned the squad from a small Texas college into a national powerhouse. And honestly? We're a little afraid of her, and we also totally want to be her at the same time. We're definitely not alone in wishing Monica would come whip our lives into shape the way she presides over her squad - keep reading for some of the best reactions Twitter has to offer!
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