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.
lundi 30 mai 2016
29 Summer Recipes That Make Feeding a Crowd a Breeze
Feeding a crowd during Summer, whether it's a big family or a group of dinner-party guests, can be hassle-free if you have the right recipes. To help you out, we've rounded up more than 20 summertime meals that can easily be made in big batches (think easy grilling recipes, casseroles, and caprese salads) that are designed to feed and please a crowd.
15 Mouthwatering Ways to Have Breakfast Like The Pioneer Woman
Ree Drummond's face should appear next to the definition of "comfort food" in the dictionary. What tops the list of The Pioneer Woman's best recipes is most definitely breakfast, from buttery homemade biscuits to crunchy cinnamon sugar french toast. If you want to pretend like you're on the ranch with the Food Network star herself, keep reading to find 15 of the most mouthwatering breakfast recipes she has shared, and then make them for yourself.
How to Build a Fire on the Big Green Egg, in Pictures
The Big Green Egg is by far the easiest and most user-friendly charcoal grill I've ever worked with. If you are the proud owner of one and want to know how to prep it or are just looking for some basic advice on how to build a charcoal fire, allow these step-by-step photos to guide you.
You'll Never Frost Cupcakes Another Way Again After Learning This Trick
Beautiful frosted cupcakes are Magnolia Bakery's bread and butter (it's this sweet treat that was popularized by Sex and the City, after all). So when the bakery extended an invitation to a cupcake decorating class focused on flower cupcakes, I had to check it out. Keep reading to see exactly how these pastry pros do it.
Here's what you'll need: cupcakes, buttercream frosting, a pastry bag, a coupler and Ateco's #104 petal tip, luster dust (optional), and some patience.
This Impossibly Cute British Baby Looks Exactly Like Gordon Ramsay
@GordonRamsay this is our baba - have you been in Wales for any reason around 10 months ago 😂😂 http://pic.twitter.com/yLesQ6qEpe
- Claire Dempster (@Claire8ball) May 26, 2016
And Gordon, never one to pass up the chance for a snarky joke, replied, "Yes about 11 months ago."
Yes about 11 months ago https://t.co/srAtXfFJa9
- Gordon Ramsay (@GordonRamsay) May 26, 2016
The Smartest Whole Foods Shoppers Take Advantage of This Hack
We reached out to a Whole Foods employee to learn insider tips, and the best secret she shared is that you can taste anything before you buy it. Seriously - there's a company-wide Try Before You Buy policy. This includes but is not limited to anything fresh from the produce section or any packaged foods within the center aisles of the store. She told POPSUGAR, "This is super handy when you head into the produce section. I've used it for things like a new apple variety - I'm very particular about apples. If there's a new apple that comes out, you can just ask someone in the produce section to cut you a slice, and then it actually turns into this fun communal thing because if you do that then other people will see it, and then you're hanging out with other customers."
You might want to brace yourself for what she told me next. "The same thing works for the cheese department, which is extra fun. If you have a specific question, you can end up tasting a bunch of cheeses to get the right one for whatever you're up to. Also, team members are completely empowered to open things on the interior shelves, too. If there's some weird cracker and you're like, 'Can this possibly be good if it's a gluten-free, seed-based cracker?' You can try it before you decide to buy it."
Cheese! Lacinato kale! Vegan white-cheddar popcorn! Not that I'm encouraging taking advantage of this tip so much that you get a free lunch made of samples from all over the store, but I'm just saying it's possible. Even frequent Whole Foods shoppers (like me) had no idea this budget-friendly policy existed. So the next time you step into your neighborhood Whole Foods Market, avoid the "Whole Foods, whole paycheck" stereotype by simply asking someone to try what you're eyeing.
10+ Memorable (and Quick!) Memorial Day Recipes
If you don't have a solid menu for Memorial Day weekend, that's completely OK. We rounded up recipes so simple and easy, you can make them again and again before the holiday even rolls around. Instead of relying on the typical hot dogs and burgers, wow your guests (and yourself) with a savory bacon guacamole dip or quench their thirst with a fruity strawberry margarita. Whether you're having a low-key backyard bash or fancy fete, the dishes and drinks here cater to all taste buds and require minimal effort.
Can You Refreeze Raw Meat After Thawing?
It's probably fair to say that every omnivorous home cook has wondered at some point or another whether it's OK to refreeze that piece of steak after thawing it out and realizing it won't need to be made after all. The short answer? Yes, you can - but you may not want to.
According to the USDA, when raw meat is thawed in the refrigerator, it is safe to refreeze it without cooking. For this reason, it's perfectly all right to purchase, say, a previously frozen piece of salmon, and then put it in your freezer when you get home. But if you refreeze thawed poultry or meat, you will be compromising quality of taste and texture. Not only does meat lose water during the defrosting process, but refreezing it also creates ice crystals within the structure of the meat that alter its fibers, leaving an unfortunately dry cut of meat.
Of course, like all raw animal protein, the true safety of the product will depend on whether it's been properly handled. The best ways to defrost raw meat are in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave - not on a room-temperature kitchen counter.
10 Quintessentially American Dishes
It's pretty hard to beat a steaming spread of dim sum, a charred Neapolitan pizza, or perfectly caramelized tarte tatin, but sometimes an all-American feast is what'll satisfy best. We've rounded up 10 quintessentially American dishes that can be mixed and matched (or cooked à la carte) the next time you're craving classic eats from our fine nation.
Here's Exactly What a Dump Cake Is and How to Make It
Dump cake: sounds gross, tastes great. You've probably had a dump cake before without even realizing it, and if you have caught on to the fact that the dessert has become super popular (especially on Pinterest), you know that it's really just a name for an incredibly easy dessert that requires zero baking skills. You put (well, dump) cake mix and some type of fruit in a baking dish, and that's it. The best part is you don't need a set-in-stone recipe. All you have to do is follow a basic formula, and then you can substitute with whatever ingredients you prefer. The formula really is as simple as this:
Cake mix + fruit filling = dump cake
Please note the cake mix part - this is not a place for scratch-made cake, and no one is judging you for using a box of store-bought yellow cake mix. Also, the fruit filling can be (and usually is) canned. That's where the convenience of dumping comes in! You don't have to mix any ingredients or dirty a bowl, and it's the most convenient treat to make for Summer dinner parties or potlucks. So do yourself a favor and whip up a dump cake the next time you want a crowd-pleasing dessert but don't feel like exerting a whole lot of effort.
Here's a basic recipe to get you started: cherry peach dump cake
Liam Hemsworth Finally Confirms His Engagement to Miley Cyrus - Well, Sort Of
Liam Hemsworth is finally opening up about his rekindled romance with Miley Cyrus. In Australia GQ's June/July issue, the Hunger Games actor revealed that their 2013 split was "actually a good decision at the time" despite it being "hard" because "we were both going in different directions and it's just what needed to happen. We were both super young . . . we both needed that." As to whether the pair's engagement is back on, Liam responded, "People will figure it out, they already have . . . They're not dumb."
The Australian heartthrob also spoke about their 2012 engagement, saying, "I guess when I feel something, then I just feel it and I go for it. I make my decisions about what's going to make me happy, what I think is right, and what I want to do and I don't worry too much outside of that." The last time we saw Miley and Liam out together was when they were seen jetting out of Australia, though Miley's dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, did spill a couple tidbits about their relationship earlier this month.
15 Oreo Hacks You've Been Missing Your Entire Life
There's no doubt about it: Oreo is the queen of cookies. And while eating an Oreo (or 10) straight from the package is great enough to begin with, there's a whole world of hacks on the internet that are here to make our Oreo-eating experience even better. You can easily DIY Oreo-inspired concoctions like cookies and cream ice cubes, Oreo churros, and Oreo freeze pops, thanks to these step-by-step tutorials. Keep reading to watch every amazing Oreo trick your life has been missing - until now.
Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin Had an Epic Prank War on the Me Before You Set
Not only is Emilia Clarke gorgeous, hilarious, and super relatable, but she's also the ultimate prankster. Leading up to the release of Me Before You, her costar Sam Claflin took to Instagram to tell fans about the epic prank war that happened between them on set. While it may have started out as some harmless fun, it quickly escalated into something much bigger. "Sam stole all the furniture out of my room and left me with just the books," the British actress explained at the movie's NYC premiere this week. "I put fish in his socks and a fart machine in his wheelchair." Well, we guess that's what happens when you throw the Mother of Dragons and a Hunger Games victor together!
Guy Fieri's Transformative Way to Grill Corn
When it comes to grilling corn this Summer, turn to chef and Food Network star Guy Fieri for his essential recipe. He explains, "For Summer, [I'm] all about serving elotes (Mexican street corn). The corn is grilled in its husk then peeled back for the last 10 minutes to get a nice char on the outside. I slather it in a crema mixture featuring a little mayo and lime juice and then sprinkle cotija cheese, chili de arbol, and some cilantro on top." We have a similar cooking method for Mexican grilled corn on our site, but the addition of mayo and lime juice sounds awesome . . . or should we say sauce-some?
I Started Saying "No" and Began Losing Weight
Saying "no" has never been my forte. I'm a social creature and a "yes" person. Long before FOMO permeated the pop culture landscape, I hated passing up any enticing invitation for a night out - the phrase "I'll sleep when I'm dead" comes to mind when I think about my first years in San Francisco.
Eventually, I woke up and found myself with a complete lack of energy, a totally shot immune system, and a body I barely recognized. The irony of it all was I was coming up on my one-year anniversary of writing for POPSUGAR Fitness. I was sitting at my desk writing all day and going out (almost) every night from work. I was left with exactly zero time to dedicate to my physical fitness or general wellness. Somewhere in my mind I had worked out this deal: since I was writing about health all day long, I was obviously being healthy. Then, I saw one Instagram proving that this was not the case. Seeing this photographic proof was the push I needed to recommit to a consistent routine, but seeing results was much tougher than I had anticipated. And it wasn't because I wasn't making time to work out; it's because I had to start saying "no" to people I love.
No, I can't eat nachos tonight. No, I can't go to your show at 11 p.m. on Wednesday; I have SoulCycle at 7 a.m. (and then, I work all day). No, I can't stop by the bar, because I don't want to be coaxed into drinking a bunch of Manhattans and wake up hungover and hating life. No, I need to leave early, so I can prep meals for the week and clean my house. No, I am not interested in your cupcake. Well . . . I am interested in your cupcake, but no, no thank you.
If you're new to this whole healthy-living gig, heed my advice, and consider this a warning. There are people you love and love spending time with who will do everything in their power to get in your way. They'll tell you they miss seeing you, ask you to skip a Sunday morning class so you can meet them for brunch, and say everyone keeps asking where you've been hiding. Even after explaining that "no" has become more rampant in my vocabulary because of my health, I still felt like I was letting friends down. Guilt plagued me for some time, but once I started reaping the benefits of all my hard work, the response became easier and more natural. And honestly? It feels really good to put my foot down, take the reins, and do what's best for me.
Don't get me wrong: making time for fun is absolutely essential to live a balanced life, and trust me, I have plenty of fun. But I realized that if I was serious about changing my body and changing my life, it was only going to work if I set healthy boundaries that were on my terms. Sure, there are still weeks I spread myself too thin and nights I stay out way too late, but the vast majority of my time is dedicated to living a healthier, more balanced life - and I've got the results to prove it.
Keep Going and Going and Going: How to Increase Your Endurance
Signing up for a distance race is exciting! But if the length's got you worried, it's good to know that endurance is a skill. Just the act of exercising regularly will help you be able to become stronger and exercise for longer, but there are specific ways you can help your body during vigorous or long-lasting workouts. Here are five tips to help build your endurance.
Be a Part of Our 4-Week Beginner Bodyweight Challenge
If you're completely new to strength training, doing bodyweight exercises is a great starting point - since you don't need any equipment, you can do them anywhere, anytime. This four-week challenge incorporates six basic moves designed to target all your major muscle groups.
Here are instructions for the six different moves, followed by a four-week plan. Follow the plan and adjust it as needed according to your schedule and ability level.
8 Netflix Docs That Will Change Your Relationship With Food
Whether you're a fitness junkie, professional couch potato, dedicated vegan, or somewhere in between, you'll be able to relate to one of these eight Netflix documentaries. Here's why: each film makes you stop and think about food from intriguing points of view. But not just in a "I'd do unthinkable things to eat this cronut on my Instagram feed right now"-type of mindframe. These documentaries make you see food from a new perspective; to some it's a lifestyle that encompasses all that they do, to others food has become their own personal demon. Each film is equally fascinating, informative, and worth pausing the current TV show binge you might be in the midst of.
- Additional reporting by Lizzie Fuhr
Long and Lean Full-Body Yoga Flow
It's time to slow it down and work your muscles while lengthening them, so today's workout is a yoga flow to help you get long and lean. It's perfect for stretching tight muscles while working your arms and core in surprising new ways.
Directions: move through the entire 12-pose sequence on the right side, and then repeat on the left.
9 Bachelorette Party Ideas That Fit Fanatics Will Love
If you yell "SHOTS!" and the bride-to-be in your life thinks wheatgrass, it's probably time to rethink that Las Vegas bachelorette party you're planning. Sure, wheatgrass isn't for everyone, but a healthy bachelorette party can still be fun, indulgent, and even a little wild.
- Grab your mats and book a private yoga class. Add an Ayurvedic spa treatment to the day for a complete yogic theme.
- Go on a vacation that offers a mix of fun and health. Head to Tulum for a beachside yoga retreat, hit up Palm Springs for bike rides and poolside adventures, or get lost in a National Park for a weekend of camping and hiking. You can also immerse yourself in a total mind and body wellness retreat.
- Invite your friends to an outdoor bootcamp workout. Once the workout is over, nurse sore muscles with a healthy brunch complete with antioxidant-rich wine.
- Get sexy with a striptease fitness class. If the idea of spinning around a pole has you nervous, don't worry - the lights will be turned down low to keep you from feeling self-conscious.
- Take a healthy cooking or cocktail-making class together. Learn to chop, dice, and muddle your way to tasty, nutritious meals and drinks.
- Plan a running weekend and start the party off with a 5K, 10K, or run of your choice. To recover, pamper yourselves for the rest of the weekend with pedicures, massages, and spa treatments.
- Be adventurous and learn something new together. Whether it's a group surfing lesson, learning to stand-up paddleboard, or going on your first whitewater river adventure, bond over a new and shared fitness activity.
- Have a relaxing girls' night in; cook a healthy dinner together, unwind with your favorite movies, and above all, find lots of reasons to laugh!
- De-stress with the ultimate spa day: get massages, detox in the spa or sauna, and don't forget the plunge pool - an ice bath does wonders for the body.
6 Healthy Reasons You Should Be Eating Cherries
Snacking on sweet and tart cherries is one of the best parts of the warmer months. You knew they were healthy - one cup is just 87 calories! - but did you know they were packed with tons of nutritional benefits and can even ward off diseases? Here's why you should add cherries to your grocery list all season long.
They reduce inflammation: A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that cherry consumption reduces several biomarkers associated with chronic inflammatory diseases. Specifically, cherry juice can ease joint inflammation for people who suffer from arthritis and gout, according to a University of Vermont study.
They're a good source of vitamin C and fiber: A one-cup serving of cherries contains 16 percent of your daily recommended amount of vitamin C and over two grams of fiber.
They can improve brain function: If you make it a habit to snack on tart cherries, you could be improving your brain in the long run. Research has shown that cherries can even reduce symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease.
They prevent muscle damage: Cherries reduce muscle soreness after a workout, and they can prevent greater muscle damage in the long run. While sore muscles are a sign of a good workout, it's never all that fun to deal with painful steps on the stairs the next day. Cherries are chock-full of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that contain anti-inflammatory properties and soothe aching muscles.
They fight cardiovascular disease: The potent anthocyanins, which give cherries their ruby hue, can also have a positive effect on heart health. University of Michigan Health system researchers found that cherries can "alter factors linked to heart disease and diabetes."
They help you sleep: Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that helps control sleep. Considering how important sleep is for your overall health (it can even affect the results of your diet), it's worth incorporating cherry juice into your diet if you're having trouble getting enough hours each night. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that, specifically, tart cherry juice can improve sleep in adults affected by insomnia.
Craving cherries now? Use them fresh from the farmers market, or pick up a bag of frozen, and try these healthy recipes:
The Best Total-Body Workout That You're Probably Not Doing
The rowing machine is getting more and more use lately, as many fitness enthusiasts are discovering the power of this surprisingly simple (but crazy effective!) workout. CrossFit boxes love incorporating rowing into their programs, and boutique rowing studios are starting to pop up in major cities, but for some reason, we're still seeing empty rowing machines at the gym.
Related: Row Like a Pro and Get a Great Workout
To find out a little bit more about what makes rowing so amazing, we talked with a couple experts - Kevin O'Connell, coach at Reebok CrossFit ONE, and Dino Adelfio, instructor at Row Club rowing studio in San Francisco - and we took a class ourselves. Holy. Cow. That class was hard, but incredible! We were definitely feeling the burn the next day (hello, quads!).
Here are four reasons you should try rowing now:
- It's a Total-Body Workout: Did you know that rowing uses 86 percent of the muscles in your body? That's pretty hard to beat. Plus, rowing is a cardio workout, which burns major calories and leads to a healthier heart.
- It's efficient: Adelfio told us that NASA astronauts train with rowing, because it's so efficient. Thirty minutes of rowing can have the same physical impact as 90 minutes of cycling, so if you're short on time, skip Spin and head to the gym for a quick session.
- It's versatile: The moves you do in rowing "carry over to the mechanics of other movements" outside the gym, explains O'Connell. CrossFit founder Greg Glassman defines this as "universal recruitment patterns," a characteristic of Functional Movements. When we took our first rowing class, we experienced firsthand how the rowing movement breaks down into squat and front row, working many different muscle groups.
- It's injury-safe: O'Connell says that with rowing, "there is minimal impact loading, so it is safe for individuals that may have had ankle, knee, or hip injuries." NOTE: make sure to keep the damper - which controls the resistance - set to 5 and no higher!
Ready to get started? Here's how to start using the rowing machine. If you're more familiar with the machine, try our rowing interval workout.
One Man's Incredible Journey From 325 Pounds to Serial Marathoner
All his life, Tony Forte wondered what it would be like to be fit, but he never took the necessary steps towards positive change. After passing the bar exam, Tony decided enough was enough. The countless hours, hard work, and determination he had dedicated to studying for his career could be translated into a new commitment: physical fitness. It looks like Tony's advice, "Stop sweating the small stuff, and simply start sweating," has paid off big time. Today, Tony is a group fitness instructor at Barry's Bootcamp, an avid marathoner, and an inspiration to anyone looking to lose weight and cultivate a healthy relationship with their body. Read on for his amazing story!
Tony: Before
Source: Tony Forte
POPSUGAR Fitness: What made you decide to start?
Tony Forte: I was 28 years old, 320 pounds, and about to start my career as a lawyer. I had spent the Summer studying for the bar exam, and the grueling experience helped me realize that I had tons of willpower and determination when it came to academics. I began to wonder why I couldn't apply that sort of determination to my health. I had spent my entire life overweight wondering what it would be like to be fit but never trying to change anything. I was resolved to the lifestyle I had lived with for 28 years: go to school, socialize, work, eat, sleep, day in and day out. I had grown accustomed to the ever-present feeling of wishing I could shed the insecurities I carried on my shoulders every day. I would lie in bed and actually daydream about being active and fit, but I didn't do anything about it.
In September 2010, I decided I would try to lose a few pounds and would start by changing my diet. I was about to begin my demanding career as a first-year associate at a NYC law firm and knew that this was the best time to focus on my health and change the trajectory of my life, before I started working 100 hours a week. Little did I know that my entire life would change from that moment forward.
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
TF: Bootcamp! Seriously, high-intensity interval training has been the most effective means of reaching my goals. But my goals might be different from others. Specifically, I aim to feel toned, live long, protect my body from injury, and find new ways to push myself without hurting myself. Bootcamp has enabled me to reach those goals effectively and efficiently. Specifically, I have to sing serious praises for Barry's Bootcamp. A very influential fitness instructor in my life encouraged me to try a class three years ago. The class made my body sore in every way possible. We ran on the treadmill and lifted weights in ways that I swear hit every muscle and left me dripping in sweat. I started to go every week and couldn't believe that people went more often than that (I could barely walk the next day let alone hop back on that treadmill).
Eventually I started going twice per week, then three times, then daily. It took my fitness to a whole new level. My strength and my endurance improved tremendously. Two years after I took my first class, I found myself teaching at the Barry's Bootcamp in Irvine, CA. It was the natural progression in my affinity for fitness. I only teach a couple classes a week (I'm still a full-time lawyer), but the opportunity to motivate others and see others conquer new hurdles gives me incredible satisfaction and motivation.
Tony: After
Source: Maria McRoberts
PS: How much weight have you lost?
TF: I try to avoid answering this question because I focus on other metrics to gauge my health rather than the scale. During any intense weight-loss regimen, the scale becomes both a source of motivation and despair. You lose 10 pounds in a week and that gives you the willpower to keep going. You work out harder than ever, but the scale doesn't change and that can kill all of your momentum. With that said, it's realistic that people (like me when I was 28) will rely on the scale to get the ball rolling. It took a long time to train my brain to evaluate my health based on my physical fitness rather than my weight, and it's still a work in progress.
At my heaviest, I weighed 325 pounds. At my lightest, I weighed 175 pounds. I now focus on building muscle and increasing my cardio-endurance. I evaluate my health based on my muscular strength. For example, how much can I bench press? The answer used to be 10-pound dumbbells, now it's 65-pounders. And in terms of my cardiovascular health, how far and how fast can I run? The answer used to be 20 seconds, now it's a four-hour marathon.
Source: Tony Forte
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
TF: This is tricky because I am currently training for the NYC Marathon in November, so my current routine is very "running-centric."
- Monday: Arms and Abs Workout at Barry's Bootcamp
- Tuesday: Medium-distance run (one hour, comfortable pace, preferably a hilly course)
- Wednesday: Chest, Back, and Abs Workout at Barry's Bootcamp
- Thursday: Indoor cycling at Full Psycle (great SoCal spot)
- Friday: Lift heavy weights and run intervals (two-three miles, alternating between sprints and jogs)
- Saturday: Long-distance run (10 to 20 miles, longer as training progresses each week)
- Sunday: Rest (swim at the beach?)
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
TF: I find that the key is to diversify from day-to-day and add cyclicality from season-to-season. On a day-to-day basis, I keep things interesting by mixing classes, runs, and lifting weights. I find new instructors, new gyms, new equipment, and new running courses - there really is no limit to your options when it comes to finding ways to get fit. If you go to indoor cycling every day, of course you will get bored and your muscles will fatigue too quickly. But if you go once a week, then it becomes a variable that helps mix things up and hit your muscles in new ways. When I feel really bored or if I find my routine is just too repetitive, I look for a race on the Runner's World Race Finder website for the upcoming weekend - a 10K is ideal for me because I can push myself without needing to adjust my training schedule too much.
As for seasonal cyclicality, I like running marathons because they require me to change my training regimen. When I am in marathon training, my workout routine is entirely different than when I am recovering between races and trying to rebuild some of the muscles I lost from the intense bouts of cardio. If you are in a place that actually has seasonal temperature and weather changes (unlike here in Orange County), this cyclicality can happen pretty easily. Take advantage of the opportunity to swim in the Summer or cycle in the Fall.
Source: Maria McRoberts
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
TF: The funny thing about my new love for fitness is that I feel proud and excited all the time. Seriously, the energy with which I approach life is completely different. However, I can think of some distinct memories that have left a mark. First, this may sound trite, but I was ecstatic to be able to shop at a store that wasn't geared towards large men. I used to hate shopping because I just bought whatever fit. I would reach for the XXL sale rack and buy everything there. If there was a 44" x 30" pant, I bought it. If it wasn't a color I liked or if it wasn't a perfect fit, I didn't care. I bought in bulk and went home. Growing up, I dreaded when my friends would want to go into stores like Abercrombie because I knew that I couldn't fit into anything. Now everything is different and I am learning how shopping for clothes can be fun (and dangerous!). I also couldn't believe when my waist dropped to the size I am at now. I was never this size before. I went from wearing kids' sized clothing (XL or XXL) to a 36" pant. I remember when I bought my first 34" pant, as a 30-year-old man.
Secondly, running the Boston Marathon last April was an incredibly moving experience. I was on vacation with my mother when I ran my first mile ever. I remember coming back to the hotel ecstatic that I had run a full mile. My mom's response was, "I'm so proud of you. You will be running marathons one day." I may have replied, "Thank you," but my brain screamed, "Why would she say that?! I can barely run one mile - there is no way I will run a marathon! Why would she undermine my legitimate accomplishment with unrealistic goals?" Fast-forward a couple years when I got to the top of Heartbreak Hill in Boston and saw my mother on the sidelines with her sign. I gave her a huge hug and then ran off with some tears in my eyes and vivid memories of that first-mile victory and her prediction. The tears were either from a sense of sentimentality . . . or physical pain . . . or the mixture of sweat and sunblock burning my eyes. It's unclear.
Source: Tony Forte
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
TF: As I mentioned above, I try to avoid putting too much emphasis on the scale; I focus on other metrics based on fitness. With that said, when I get into marathon mode, I use a calorie counter. When you are very, very active, you can get very, very hungry. And while I fuel my body to meet the demands of intense training, I don't want to go overboard and overconsume. I often say that endurance running can be tricky emotionally. On one hand you feel incredibly fit because you are running for hours at a time, but on the other hand, it is hard to maintain your muscle-mass and also regulate your metabolism. Training can be a bit of a whirlwind, and I find that calorie-counting (using apps like MyFitnessPal) helps keep things in check.
PS: What's the range of calories you eat per day?
TF: I eat between 2,700 and 3,300 calories per day and estimate that I burn around 500 to 700 per day working out.
What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
TF: This is a tough one because I cycle my diet based on what I am doing in my training. Generally, I try to avoid carbs and sugar because I know that if I wake up and eat a muffin, I will probably reach for a snack at 10 a.m. and again after lunch and again before dinner. In other words, I do whatever I can to avoid a sugar roller coaster. I love low-glycemic fruits like berries before workouts and healthy complex carbs like sweet potatoes and brown rice before and after workouts. I also can't run over 10 miles without a banana (or two!). For protein, egg whites are very prominent in my diet as are fish and chicken. I'm not a huge red-meat eater, but every once in a while, I will eat steak.
As for snacking, I am an almond addict! (Always unsalted.) I also love carrots and hummus, especially oil-free hummus because it really cuts the fat and calories, and I often add some sriracha to make it even more fun. A great snack that I eat an hour before a workout consists of shredded carrots, fresh almond butter, some whole cashews, and dried cranberries all mixed together. It may sound crazy, but it's delicious and gives me a ton of energy. As for my less-than-healthy indulgences . . . hello, frozen yogurt with chocolate chips. I have a platinum Yogurtland rewards card.
Source: Ragnar Race Series
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
TF: Here's a sad story about me: I have a ridiculously bad habit of eating in my sleep. Honestly, nothing is off-limits. I've actually made rice in my sleep (in a rice cooker). I've also polished off a whole jar of peanut butter in my sleep. As a result, I can't really keep much at home. People look in my fridge and think I am a stereotypical dude who doesn't know how to shop for food or cook. But it's actually quite the contrary – I love food and cooking.
When I do shop, here are things that I buy and try to keep either in the fridge or on reserve in the freezer: chicken breast, carrots, salsa, almond butter, eggs, and almond milk. Basically, I need something I can snack on that isn't processed and loaded with sodium, so carrots help with that, and it turns out salsa is good with almost everything. Chicken breast grilled with some seasoning can satisfy a fast dinner. And a spoonful of almond butter is an instant desert.
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
TF: Unless it's two nights before a marathon, the only "rule" I stick to is no bread on the table. I also avoid the trap of presuming salads are healthier than entrees by default. Salads loaded with fats and sugars can be terribly bad for you. When I get a salad, I always ask for dressing on the side. I substitute starches and carbs for greens. I don't hesitate to order fish or chicken, provided the word beurre (butter) doesn't appear in the description. With that said, I don't consider this strategizing; I don't try to approach eating as if it's a game for which there are winners and losers. I eat food as a source of fuel for my body and as a source of joy for my taste buds. I try to marry those two objectives as best as possible. If I am carbo-loading for a race, I suggest Italian for dinner. If I am driving home from lifting weights, I propose my favorite rotisserie chicken spot.
Source: Maria McRoberts
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
TF: Take it one day at a time, and don't rush into it or get frustrated. Finding fitness is a process. Even though you may think there is an end in sight or a target you are trying to achieve, there isn't. Once you start this sort of journey you will stay on it forever. If your goal is to lose 30 pounds, don't think: "OK, I will lose two or three pounds per week for the next three months and then I will be done." That may be weight loss, but it's not fitness. Find a routine that you can maintain even beyond reaching your weight-loss goals. I used to be incredibly scared that I would regain the weight I lost. Tabloids always focus on weight-loss stories where the weight "comes back." That terrified me. But then I realized that the fundamentals of my life – how I exist in my body – have changed, and they aren't going to change. I didn't just lose weight. I found fitness.
We need to abandon all the hurdles when it comes to weight loss and healthy living - most of these hurdles stem from fear and anxiety. Don't be afraid to walk into a gym. Don't be afraid to ask your group fitness instructor for advice. Don't be scared if your weight increases by two pounds over the course of a week. Stop sweating the small stuff, and simply start sweating.
Do you have an inspiring Before & After story to share? Message us on Facebook, and give us a few details of your journey. We might even profile you on the site, like Tony!
Saying sorry for medical errors
When it comes to medical errors, saying sorry may be the hardest thing. NightshiftMD says doctors need to break the wall of silence.
Saying sorry for medical errors
When it comes to medical errors, saying sorry may be the hardest thing. NightshiftMD says doctors need to break the wall of silence.
Your SO Will Never Binge-Watch a Show Without You Thanks to This Device
Have you ever come home to catch your significant other watching a show you both follow . . . without you? Nothing could be more upsetting, except maybe actual infidelity. You don't have to worry about the former any longer, thanks to a new device. Cornetto, an ice cream brand from Italy, just announced "commitment rings" to prevent TV-show adultery. The rings can detect whether you and your significant other are together or apart, so couples trying to watch their favorite shows when they're separated can't binge.
We're a little skeptical about the rings since Cornetto, at the end of the day, makes ice cream. Adding to our suspicion is the availability of the rings: they won't be sold as retail, but on Cornetto's Series Commitment website in a small supply. Regardless, we have a feeling the Series Commitment rings would solve a lot of relationship problems. If they aren't real, you can always invest in Netflix socks that magically pause shows when you fall asleep - another way to make sure you and your significant other are on the same page of a show.
The 2 People Hugging in This Photo Created an Optical Illusion That Will Drive You Insane
At first glance, this photo might look like just two people hugging. But, as your eyes travel down to the sand, you're going to start freaking out about their legs: it looks like one person is lifting another off the ground - or does it? Take a look for yourself.
Originally posted by Reddit user Blood_Reaper, the photo has quickly torn people apart wondering what exactly is happening here. If you take a closer look, you'll notice that it's the man's shorts that are creating the illusion. Did you just say "Ahhh"? It's OK - it took us a few minutes too.
Want to play some more tricks on your mind? Try finding the optical illusion in this brick wall, or try to figure out how many horses are in this painting.
dimanche 29 mai 2016
A Brief History of Mariah Carey and Jennifer Lopez's Rumored Feud
It all began in the early 2000s when Mariah Carey gave an interview to a German TV show and was asked to share her thoughts on Jennifer Lopez and Beyoncé. After saying nothing but nice things about Beyoncé, the "We Belong Together" singer quipped with, "I don't know her," in response to Jennifer. Since then, rumors of an alleged feud between the two stars have swirled, and while the Shades of Blue actress has tried to clear the air by stating they aren't true, Mariah recently threw fire into the flame by clapping back at Jennifer, saying, "I still don't know her." Read on for a full rundown of how this reported beef came to be, and then check out the biggest celebrity feuds that went down last year.
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi's Love Story, in Their Own Words
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi clearly know the secret to a long-lasting relationship. With more than 10 years together, the pair have a collection of sweet moments under their belt, including their adorable red carpet appearances and romantic getaways. While the couple tied the knot in August 2008, Portia admits that she knew Ellen was the one "when I first laid eyes on her, but it took me three years to actually tell her how I felt about her." Even so, the television host has said that she plans on being with Portia "until the day I die." Read through for a look at the sweetest things Ellen and Portia have said about each other.
The Wine Pairings For Your Favorite Store-Bought Desserts
As an adult, it's more likely you're taking your Oreos and Chips Ahoy cookies with wine, not milk. In honor of National Wine Day, we reached out to Minibar Delivery to ask for the best wine pairings for your favorite store-bought treats, including Ben & Jerry's chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. The suggestions will expand your taste buds and knowledge of wine, with the promise of a lulling you into a sweet sugar high / wine buzz later. Cheers!
- Oreos with Pinot Noir (like The Pinot Project), because "a fruit-forward Pinot complements the creme filling and chocolate."
- Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with Riesling (like Clean Slate), because "a dry Riesling is a great refresher to the palate after taking a bite of cold cookie dough ice cream."
- Chips Ahoy with Sauvignon Blanc (like Oyster Bay), because "the aromatic, zesty Sauvignon makes a surprising [companion] to the crunchy, crumbly cookie."
- Hostess Cupcake with Cabernet Sauvignon like (Stag's Leap), because "chocolate and Cabernet make a perfect pairing."
- Twinkies with Pinot Gris (like J Vineyards), because "a light, fruity Pinot Gris goes [well] with the light sponginess of a Twinkie."
- Milanos with Champagne like Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label), because "bubbles [harmonize] with Milanos' soft crunch."
- Cosmic Brownies with Zinfandel (like 7 Deadly Zins), because "a spicy Zinfandel brings a great balance to the [rich] brownie.
Whoa: A Company That Works With Apple Just Revealed a New iPhone Design
When Apple's manufacturers start receiving more orders for equipment, the internet starts buzzing about a new iPhone. Apple is presumably planning to upgrade its screens to OLED (organic light-emitting diode) because the largest company to make those screens just reported a huge spike in second quarter orders.
According to Bloomberg, the manufacturing company Applied Materials averages around $180 million a quarter - but in the second quarter of this year alone, it disclosed $700 million in orders. The CEO of Applied Materials, Gary Dickerson, also implied the order was not going to be the first. "This is going to be sustainable growth," he said to Bloomberg. "We all know who is the leader in terms of mobile products." Although the order isn't due until Fall 2017, Dickerson suggested other mobile phone producers would follow Apple's lead.
OLED screens are exciting for many reasons. Not only are the screens more energy efficient, but they are also thinner because they require no backlights. While OLED lights usually take longer to make than LCD lights, they have much more potential - like flexibility. OLED lights allow curved screens, so this news might indicate more drastic design changes. Even though the iPhone 7 is rumored to have tons of new features people will love, it might be worth waiting until 2017 for the latest iPhone product.
Teens Are Doing a New Challenge That Even You Can Accomplish
As we like to say on the internet, you don't choose the meme - the meme chooses you. OK maybe only I say that, but the latest meme on the internet is one that won't have you thinking about Vans or banana peels - all it involves is simply flipping a water bottle.
The challenge is relatively new, considering the teen who accidentally started it, Mike Senatore, only went viral with it a few days ago. All Senatore did was perfectly flip a water bottle in the air and have it land upright on a table for his high school talent show. The internet completely lost it, so now of course, they're trying to imitate it.
Check out some of our favorite ones and please try it. It's kinda fun and will show you that it's even easier to do than you think, but maybe not as fun as the Running Man Challenge.
9 Intoxicating Celebrity Fragrances You'll Love to Spritz
There are hundreds and hundreds of perfumes on the market, lining shelves and counters at department and beauty stores from floor to ceiling. So how do you pick a fragrance to get? You choose a spritz inspired by your favorite star (or celebrity spirit animal), of course. Keep reading for a sampling of celebrity-created sprays to consider this Spring, and then check out 10 perfumes your grandma wore that you might want to bring back.
Contouring Queen Kim Kardashian Is Officially Over Contouring
Kim Kardashian has long been hailed as the "queen of contouring" and the star responsible for bringing the technique to the masses, but she has decided to step down from her (well-defined) throne. At the Vogue UK Festival, Kim disclosed that she's interested in fresher, more natural-looking makeup.
"I think right now it's more about non-touring, like real skin with less makeup on it," she explained in a discussion with makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury. "I'm trying to wear less . . . and my husband loves me without makeup."
Though some may find Kim's revelations a bit shocking, we're completely unfazed. Kanye has been a key figure in his wife's style evolution, cosmetic choices included. You also have to take into account that sisters trade beauty secrets, and Kendall Jenner is a master of the more strobed, less chiseled non-touring look. Maybe Kim and Kendall have compared notes.
"I'm really into strobing now, so just highlighting the skin without using bronzer," Kim added. This doesn't surprise us, either. The OG Kardashian sisters recently released two supershimmery strobing domes, perfect for re-creating this look.
However, just because Kim prefers a more natural look these days doesn't mean she's totally giving up contouring. "I love contouring," she gushed. "I don't think I'd stop contouring my nose - I know people think I've had a nose job but it really is just makeup!" And that's true! Kim has revealed how her go-to artist Mario Dedivanovic perfectly sculpts her snout into a tiny ski slope. Now if only Kim would share her eyelash tricks with us . . .
44 Reasons Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden Is the Royal Glamazon You Need to Follow
If your royal style inspiration is limited to Kate Middleton, girl, you've got to expand your horizons. Don't get us wrong, Kate's sophisticated looks provide countless outfit ideas we consider on the regular, but there are plenty of queens and princesses up to par - Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden included. Not only is the duchess expected to inherit the throne, but she's got a vibrant wardrobe that will help her make power moves.
Jaw-dropping brooches and jewels, over-the-top tiaras, and glamorous gowns covered in sequins are all go-tos for Victoria, and her maternity style was just as regal. But sans baby bump, we expect the crown princess to take even more style risks. Just wait until you see her Pär Engsheden-designed wedding gown! Read on to see the 44 reasons this Swedish duchess, who happens to favor purple, is a fashion icon in her own right. We recommend you start following her, stat.
You're About to See This Valentino Dress on All Your Favorite Style Stars
First, Olivia Palermo worked her signature styling magic on this Valentino dress - and we can't say we were surprised by the lovely outcome. But we've got to hand it to the fashion house: the star-embellished gown is a wonder on its own.
When Rose Byrne stepped out in the number at the X-Men Apocalypse screening in New York, she was showing off the original design that debuted on the runway. It was a slight variation of the one Olivia wore just a few days earlier, her commercial version featuring a sheer skirt and extra chiffon at the sleeves.
While Rose finished her outfit with a matching star pendant necklace by Atelier Swarovski and simple Jimmy Choo pumps, it was the princess-like details on her sparkling dress that confirms its staying power on the red carpet. In fact, we expect it might even go viral, just like the playful Gucci gown Dakota Johnson wore on Jimmy Fallon, before it hit magazine covers and editorials everywhere.
Read on to see how Rose and Olivia rocked the silhouette, then see it on the model when it hit the catwalk in March, complete with a furry bolero, edgy moto boots, and layered chains.
Here's How the New Fruity Crisp and Blueberry Pie Oreos Really Taste
By now you've probably caught on to the fact that Oreo loves to throw its loyal fans for a loop with unexpected flavors. The latest? Blueberry Pie and Fruity Crisp Oreos. As soon as we heard the news, we knew we had to do a taste test to see how each really stacks up to the expectations.
The Blueberry Pie Oreos have an icing with purplish blue hue that gives off a strong blueberry scent as soon as you open the package. And our tasters agree that the vanilla cookie seems slightly different than the regular Golden Oreos, giving us hints of graham cracker and cinnamon. Overall, these were well liked among blueberry fans, but others think they're too sweet and claim that half of one cookie is all they could handle.
If you love Fruity Pebbles, you'll go nuts over these. The cookie is a Golden Oreo with crunchy bits of fruity cereal mixed into the vanilla icing, and they taste like childhood in the best way. "Tastes like I'm actually eating the cereal! It's amazing," one reviewer wrote, and another thought they tasted like "Trix in cookie form."
Fruity Crisp is the clear winner! Which one are you more excited to try?
30 Pasta Recipes That Are Perfect For Summer
Pasta is always a good choice, but especially during Summer. It's the perfect way to showcase some of the season's best produce, like basil, tomatoes, and even avocados, and it's ideal for feeding a crowd. These 30 Summer pasta recipes are the definition of summertime comfort food.
17 Life Lessons From Harry Potter That Everyone Can Relate To
All Harry Potter fans know that the books gave us lessons to carry with us for the rest of our lives. Whether it was a wise word from Professor Dumbledore or how the characters dealt with tough situations, anyone who read the books definitely left with advice they'd carry with them forever. People shared some of their favorite lessons on popular social sharing platform Yik Yak, and they'll either make you reminisce so badly about the books or make you want to reread them immediately. Read through them ahead - you won't regret it, and it might even inspire you to make some of it more permanent.
This Hodor Doorstop Will "Hold the Door" For Every Grieving Game of Thrones Fan
Image Source: Etsy user HodorDoorStopShop
Nothing will ever truly fill the void left in Game of Thrones fans' hearts by loveable giant Hodor, but at least we've got depressing jokes to get us through. After all, the night is dark (and so is our humor). In the aftermath of that heartbreaking Hodor storyline, GoT addicts have tried to make the best of the situation - including by getting crafty. Thanks to one creative fan, you can now hold your door with the big man himself: there are doorstops covered in his likeness ($30) available on Etsy!
According to the Etsy seller, "This door stopper will guarantee to HOLD THE DOOR! HOLD DOOR! HOLDOR! HODOR!" better than your average doorstop. Yeah, it might be too soon for these types of depressing jokes, but we have to cope somehow, right? Plus, with faithful Hodor doing what he does best, nobody will accidentally make us cry by asking us to hold the door. It's a win-win situation.
Image Source: HBO
Put a Bow Around 1 of These Colognes, and Make Your Dad the Best-Smelling Man on the Block
Dad gifts are tough - do you give him something practical but boring like tools? Something handmade that he'll surely appreciate but might require a little skill on your part? Or do you get him something store-bought but a little adventurous that he might not expect?
For those who are leaning toward the last option, we have this list of 12 fragrances he might not know yet but will be spritzing every day for years to come. Scroll ahead to find smoky and supermanly colognes, perfumes, and eau de toilettes, from classics to limited-edition new launches, and get shopping!
The Best Pictures of the British Royals in 2016 - So Far!
Kate Middleton, Prince William, Prince Harry, and the rest of the British royal family have had quite a busy 2016 so far. In addition to Kate and Will celebrating their five-year wedding anniversary, being parents to Prince George and Princess Charlotte, and taking a royal tour of India, they also rang in Queen Elizabeth II's 90th birthday and made a slew of official appearances around London. Prince Harry has kept himself busy with his Invictus Games in Florida, a trip to Disney World, and just looking ridiculously handsome. Meanwhile, Prince George met the Obamas and Princess Charlotte proved that she's growing up so fast in adorable new photos. Keep reading to see the best royal moments so far this year!
55 Beckham Family Moments That Are Just OK and Won't Make You Envy Them at All
We've always loved seeing the Beckham family out and about, whether they're sitting front row at Victoria's runway shows or taking in sports games together - and now that both David and eldest son Brooklyn have been sharing up a storm on social media, we're getting new, exciting glimpses into their personal lives. We're paying homage to one of our favorite celebrity families with a roundup of their sweetest photos over the years. Scroll through to see them all now.
14 Royal Engagement Rings Even Better Than a Crown
One major perk of being a princess? A stunning engagement ring, likely passed down through generations, sitting atop your royal finger. Kate Middleton's Ceylon sapphire alone spawned tons of knockoffs, and she's not the only one with a superfancy accessory.
There are plenty of princesses, queens, and countesses with engagement rings we'd happily accept (given, of course, we were just as into the royal doing the asking). Look through to see some of the best, then check out a few affordable ring options. After all, your crown is invisible, but that price tag is not.
The Perfect Investment Piece to Add to Your Wardrobe - According to Your Zodiac Sign
By now, this style lesson likely sounds like a broken record: rather than spending your money on tons of fast-fashion items, save up for something of quality - aka a chic investment that'll last for years to come. But while you love the idea of having something fancy in your wardrobe, it can be hard to decide on that next big purchase. Which is exactly where your zodiac sign comes in.
Maybe your sign's adventurous and something statement-making is best. Or you could enjoy tradition, which will lead you to something truly timeless. Whatever your sign, you'll find our suggestion ahead. Then, check out more fashion splurges worth every penny.
Amal Clooney Just Confirmed That Your LBD Is Always a Good Idea
If you're Amal Clooney, you likely have an outfit for everything, even to visit with the pope. Sure, there's a lot of pressure that comes with an event like that, but when Mrs. Clooney stepped out for the "Un Moro o Un Ponte" Seminary at the Vatican, hosted by Pope Francis himself, she looked cool, calm, and collected in a classic ensemble.
The power dresser relied on an old standby, selecting a black lace three-quarter-sleeved dress and classic neutral pumps, which she finished with a fashion-girl twist: a coordinating hat. Let this elegant look remind you that an LBD is always a good idea; just fashion it with a personal touch and you'll always have the perfect outfit. Read on to see how Amal styled hers in full.
See How 1 Makeup Artist Uses Her Face as a Canvas For Classic Paintings
Art has a different way of inspiring the audience, and for makeup artist Lexie Lazear, it inspired her to re-create paintings on a canvas she knows very well - her face.
"I love art, so I started with pieces that have always spoken to me, and plan to keep going until I'm struck by a new inspiration," Lazear told BuzzFeed.
The California-based artist has taken classic paintings like Van Gogh's "Starry Night" and Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss" and transformed them into makeup masterpieces. Like any true artist, Lazear doesn't draw a complete rendition of the paintings. Instead, she finds elements of the art that speak to her and creates a "fantasy makeup" look.
The trend of borrowing inspiration from literal works of art seems to be hitting it off, because colorist Ursula Goff has used paintings as her muse for her clients' hair.
"Art is expression," Lazear said. "And we're all unique, looking for ways to express that." See her brilliant masterpieces when you read on.
The 20 Perks of Waiting to Have Kids
It's no secret why more and more women are waiting to have their first baby. Gone are the days when their only reputable prospect was to raise children - now, a woman's options are limitless, and she wants to spend time exploring them before settling down to start a family.
There's plenty to be said for having kids young, and, yes, there are risks associated with delaying pregnancy too long, but there are rewards that come with being a more mature mom. Plenty of them, in fact. If you're waiting until your 30s or beyond to start baby-making, these parenting perks are sure to resonate.
- You are more emotionally and psychologically ready for the vast changes that having kids requires.
- Your parents are likely hitting retirement age by the time you have kids and can help watch them. (Bonus? You don't have to pay for day care as often.)
- Your relationships with close friends and family members who are having kids around the same time get so much stronger, and the bond you make over the shared experiences stays with you for years to come.
- You had more time to enjoy your prepregnancy body.
- Kids cost a lot of money, and by the time you have one, you've already paid off student loans and credit card debts, and you've likely saved enough to prepare a good financial plan for your child's future.
- Hand-me-downs! If you want to avoid spending a ton on kids' clothes, it's nice to know you likely have a sibling or cousin who's got bins of barely worn duds for you to borrow - and considering you can get away with secondhand clothes for a good chunk of their childhood, you'll be saving serious cash.
- The same goes for pricey gadgets and gizmos that you only need for a short period of time. You likely won't have to buy a brand-new $200 baby swing or video monitor because you've got a friend between babies who can loan you theirs.
- You've had time to accomplish your personal goals so you never have to wonder, "Should I have waited until . . . ?"
- You have more life experience, wisdom, and maturity, which guides a lot of the smart decisions you make as a parent.
- You are also far more patient.
- You spent more time finding the right life partner for you, which is never more important than when you consider the stress that a child can put on even the best relationships.
- You likely got to spend more quality time with your partner, just the two of you.
- You know more peers who are already parents who you can turn to when you need advice or an answer to a random "is this normal?" question.
- Your career is more established. That means you have more bargaining power to dictate your hours or negotiate for more flexibility or better office arrangements, which makes being a working mom less of a struggle.
- You got to be selfish in your 20s and are now ready to willingly put someone else's needs first.
- You already live in a home suitable for raising a child.
- If you wanted to pursue postbachelor degrees of study, you had the time to do so without juggling your homework with theirs.
- Because you've been gearing up to have kids - contrary to the unplanned nature of many young pregnancies - your kids will more likely be closer in age and thus have a closer sibling relationship.
- You won't ever resent the timing of motherhood. You don't have to feel you missed out on spontaneous, booze-filled getaways with your girlfriends or taking a solo, soul-searching cross-country road trip because you had the time to experience them, and if you didn't, you know it wasn't because of a baby.
- You have more appreciation of finally having a much-wanted, long-awaited baby.
Game of Thrones Might Be Introducing This Important Book Character This Week
Anyone who was able to see through their tears at the end of Game of Thrones season six, episode five (RIP Hodor) was likely left wondering what fate awaits Bran and Meera alone in the wilderness, with the White Walkers and wights likely still in pursuit. It's pretty clear that they need someone or something to help keep them safe, especially since the promo for the next episode shows a hooded figure helping them. Fans who have read the A Song of Ice and Fire series, however, might already be suspecting that a certain character will soon come to their rescue - since in the books, Coldhands already has.
So Who Is Coldhands?
He's called Coldhands because, well, we don't know his real name and Coldhands fits him pretty well. He's cold as ice to the touch and seems pretty much like a wight in appearance - although he has black eyes instead of the characteristic ice blue of a wight. His behavior is also far more human. He speaks normally, seems fairly intelligent (although very serious), and acts on his own accord, rather than exhibiting the zombie-like behavior of a traditional wight. Who he might have been before becoming . . . whatever he is now is never made clear, though there's a theory about that too. He has a flock of ravens at his disposal and rides a huge elk, both of which are definite badassery points.
What Does He Do?
Coldhands first appears in A Storm of Swords to rescue Samwell Tarly and Gilly from wights after they escape Craster's Keep. He's dressed all in black and calls Sam "brother," both of which suggest that at some point Coldhands might have been a man of the Night's Watch. After rescuing Sam and Gilly (who give him his fitting nickname), Coldhands brings them to the Nightfort castle at the Wall and tells them that someone inside the castle must be brought back out to him. Coldhands is unable to pass the Wall to get into the castle himself - implying that there's enough wight in him to be stopped by the Wall's defensive magic.
Sam and Gilly find Bran Stark (along with Meera, Jojen Reed, and of course Hodor) inside Nightfort, and Jojen, being his know-it-all self, says that Bran is the one Coldhands wants. Coldhands makes Sam swear not to tell anyone that Bran is still alive. Bran and the rest of his companions then set out on their final leg of the journey beyond the Wall to the Three-Eyed Crow (called the Three-Eyed Raven in the TV show), guided by Coldhands.
On the way to the Three-Eyed Crow in A Dance With Dragons, Coldhands serves as a sort of protector to the travelers as they move through the Haunted Forest, although he's not exactly friendly. He leaves the group at one point to deal with "foes," who Bran later discovers by warging into Summer were actually men of the Night's Watch. Bran and his companions are never quite positive what exactly Coldhands is, although details about him make them very wary - they never see him eat or breathe, he doesn't like fire at all, and he smells like dead meat to Summer. But Jojen insists they trust him to lead them to the Three-Eyed Crow.
When the group nears the cave where the Three-Eyed Crow lives they're attacked by wights, which Coldhands helps fight off so the rest of them can get inside. Bran voices his concern about the wights killing Coldhands to Leaf, the first member of the Children of the Forest he encounters, to which she replies, "They killed him long ago." She also says that Coldhands cannot come into the cave, again implying that defensive magic designed to keep wights out would prevent Coldhands from entering as well. So however conscious and human-like Coldhands appears, there's still plenty of dead in him too.
What Role Does Coldhands Have in the Whole Story?
Coldhands clearly knows how important Bran is to whatever the future holds. When he leaves the group to kill their "foes" he tells Meera not to come with him, because Bran has to be protected. And his dedication to getting Bran to the Three-Eyed Crow also suggests he also knows the importance of Bran fulfilling whatever destiny awaits him there. Whether he'll make another appearance in the books (or in the TV show) to help Bran on his journey to come . . . who knows?
There Are More Horses in This Painting Than Your Eyes Can Register
Another day, another optical illusion to drive you mad. Today, we bring you the mystery of counting how many camouflaged horses you see in this painting. It might appear easy to spot at first glance, until you start confusing the snowy mountain with the horses' patched pinto coats with one another. Bev Doolittle, the artist who created this painting, is known for depicting disguised horses - but we have to admit, this might be her most puzzling. Think you know the answer? Look for yourself.
The number of horses in this painting was hotly debated at the POPSUGAR offices. Some saw three, others saw four. Guess what? There are actually five horses: one in the foreground to the left and four grouped together on the right side. Time to challenge your friends' eyes and find out what they see!
An Artist Re-Created Star Wars: A New Hope Into a Long and Beautiful Infographic
Some Star Wars fans use their tax returns to take epic photos with the cast. Others try on a Chewbacca mask and make the world laugh with them. And then there's Martin Panchaud, an illustrator who re-created the entirety of Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope into one very long, beautiful infographic.
The entire infographic is complete with the dialogue and characters from the film. As it stands, it's 123 meters or 403 feet in length. Panchaud took this creative approach because he was inspired and reminded of ancient Chinese scrolls. He further mentions that he did this because Star Wars is a "childhood memory" of his and he really loves it.
As you can see, characters are shown as circular dots.
Scrolling through the entire illustration is truly mesmerizing (and maybe a little tiresome for your finger), but Panchaud does not miss a single line or scene from the movie.
So do yourself a favor and check out the entire work on his website. You won't be disappointed.
McDonald's Is Opening a Fries-Only Location!
Do you make trips to McDonald's just for the fries? What if when you got there, they only had fries on the menu? That fantasy is officially becoming a reality because McDonald's is opening a fries-only location called Fries With That. Except it's only in Australia and only for the weekend of May 27 through May 29. I know, I know - consider your dreams crushed. But even if you won't be able to make it to Sydney to get the real experience, you can at least check out the creative menu (chipotle cheese sauce!), or make homemade McDonald's fries and add your own toppings.
You can see even more photos of the fries-focused McDonald's on POPSUGAR Australia. The good news is the US does have new McDonald's garlic fries in parts of California and will possibly expand to other locations across the country, so those will have to fill the void. How would you feel about a fries-only McDonald's?
Articles
