Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
vendredi 6 mai 2016
The Best-Tasting Beer With the Fewest Calories
If kicking back and drinking a cold one is on your weekend agenda, there is no better time to find out what light beer tastes the best. Knowing the calorie count, carbs, and alcohol content in each of these readily available light brews will allow you to make smart and informed choices as you party. We matched these beers up head to head at POPSUGAR HQ, and here's what our editors thought!
3-Ingredient Snacks For Under 150 Calories
When you need to grab an easy snack, check out one of these recipes that are made with three ingredients or less! Craving something sweet? Whip up these popsicle-like yogurt- and chia-seed-covered frozen grapes. Each 10-grape serving is just 52 calories. Keep reading for more simple snack inspiration.
20 Outfits That Use the Most Versatile Summer Piece: The White Tank Top
The white tank top is one of the most important pieces any woman should have in her closet. It also happens to be the one item in your wardrobe that doesn't get much credit. The rule here should really be the more, the better!
I personally own about 20 at a time, because I wear a different one almost everyday. I love them for the beach, pre-production day before styling jobs, the movies, the office, a plane, for lunch with friends, for a cocktail at night - the list is endless!
Since this is one of the most versatile pieces out there, and because it works as a simple base, creating an outfit with it allows you to express your personal style. But not every white tank top is created equal. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you scroll ahead for 20 looks to use as inspiration.
- Make sure the fit is right. Tight tanks can show every lump or bump.
- Wear a seamless or t-shirt bra under your tank top.
- Choose a tank with medium straps for the most wearability. Thin spaghetti straps make a tank look like an undershirt, which is fine for certain occasions as long as you make sure to wear a strapless bra. Skip thick straps though, as they are too bulky to layer or wear under certain garments.
- Pay attention to the neckline. Choose one that ends right above your cleavage.
- Length is of utmost importance. Your tank should hit a little past your waist so you can easily tuck it in or add a belt if you want to wear it out.
- Mind the quality. It should be soft and sturdy, since you are going to wear it so many ways, so splurge if you need to. Those made with 100 percent cotton are comfortable and fresh for hot Summer days.
- There's a place for see-through fabrics. They can be funky and sexy for night if you show a peek of pretty lace lingerie. You also add a light leather jacket for a rock look or a blazer for a little more polished style.
- For casual looks, loose fitting tanks are perfect. Complement them with ripped jeans and layered necklaces with sneakers, or leggings and a cardigan. And don't be afraid to accessorize with bold statement bracelets either.
- Own at least two tanks made of thick fabric. Wear them under a suit or with a nice pencil skirt and small jewelry for a chic, polished look you can sport to work.
- Pack at least one if you're traveling. It is the perfect basic piece to start a layered look. Weather changes constantly at airports and planes and I constantly use a sweater, scarf, cardigan, or a jacket over it.
Need even more inspiration? Check out POPSUGAR Latina's 100 outfits to try this Summer.
Stylist Irma Martinez, who has worked with celebrities like Thalia, Sofia Vergara, Daisy Fuentes, and Eva Longoria, shares her most useful fashion secrets with POPSUGAR Latina.
10 Affordable and Beautiful Vacation Destinations in Latin America
Though Latin America's destinations are fairly affordable to visit in comparison with big European cities and far-away Asian vacations, the price tag on big name destinations like Rio de Janeiro or Cabo San Lucas might make you pause before booking. And because we know the last thing you want is to be totally broke after taking a few days off to relax and sightsee, we created this lust-versus-must guide for travelers looking to get a little more bang for their buck. Try these 10 equally lust-worthy alternatives!
Important: Jon Snow Will Have a New Hairstyle on Game of Thrones
Image Source: HBO
Can your heart handle even more Jon Snow news? This time it's about something very, very important - his hair. Sunday's episode of Game of Thrones finally answered the big Jon Snow question, and Kit Harington chatted with Entertainment Weekly about what it was like to keep that secret. Now EW has dropped even more major news about the fan-favorite character: Jon Snow will be rocking a man bun this season. Answering all the burning questions about the status of his hair this time around, Kit said, "We cut it much shorter for this season, and do a different hairstyle this season and put it up in a bun." Yesss.
As we wait to find out more about Jon Snow's condition in this week's upcoming episode, check out the hilarious memes about last week's big moment plus a must-read theory about his return.
Oh, and behold: Kit Harington sporting a man bun . . .
Image Source: Getty / Jon Kopaloff
Yep, we approve.
Why Daenerys Targaryen Is Game of Thrones' Prince That Was Promised
Daenerys Targaryen has had one of the most interesting storylines in Game of Thrones so far, but her role on the series might be even more important than previously thought. There are signs scattered throughout both the books and the TV show that the prince in the prophecy of "The Prince That Was Promised" - which many fans assume is Jon Snow - could actually end up being a princess, instead (i.e. Daenerys). Although Dany is currently in dire straits with Khal Moro and on her way to Vaes Dothrak, keep reading to see what's potentially in store for everybody's favorite dragon-riding khaleesi.
This Harry Potter Wedding Is Every Witch and Wizard's Dream Come True
Some couples love Harry Potter so much, they make it a part of their wedding process somehow - or just make it the whole theme. Meet the couple who had the Harry Potter wedding theme from your dreams, complete with shoes, cufflinks, and a bouquet as odes to the books.
The married couple, Cassie and Lewis Byrom, had their wedding at Manchester Town Hall in the UK, a place that literally looks like the real-life Hogwarts. Every part of their wedding was touched by Harry Potter in some form, and they even held a reading from The Order of Phoenix at their ceremony. As you'll see from the photos, the wedding looks amazing, almost like it was put together by magic. It makes total sense, considering the couple got engaged at Harry Potter World.
Look ahead to see photos from the wedding and start copying ideas ASAP. Oh and yes, Cassie's bouquet is literally made out of pages from the books - check it out!
Here's the Deal With Vision, the Avenger You May Have Forgotten About
If you're planning on seeing Captain America: Civil War, you're probably pumped about reuniting with Iron Man, Cap, and the rest of the crew - but what about the new guy on the block? Vision is the latest addition to the onscreen team. He's played by Paul Bettany, and if you're a savvy Marvel fan, you probably already know that he has been the voice of Jarvis since 2008's Iron Man. Here's what you need to remember about how Vision is created. Please note that there are differences between the movie version and the comic version of Vision, so to avoid confusion, I'm mainly going to focus on how the film has portrayed him so far.
After many failed attempts, Tony Stark and Bruce Banner, aka the Science Bros, finally create Ultron - only they don't realize it. They've walked out of the room when Ultron, who is essentially an advanced, intangible network of artificial intelligence with a desire to wipe out the human race, wakes up. He latches himself onto the network next to him, Jarvis, and promptly destroys him.
After causing some initial destruction, Ultron forces one of Tony's scientists to create a synthesized human body that will embody all the intelligence that Ultron has within him. Before he can finish "baking," the body is stolen by the Avengers. When they open it, Vision comes out. He's a highly analytical android (he absorbed some of Jarvis, after all), but he isn't bent on destroying the planet like Ultron. He's also not thoroughly convinced he should fight with the Avengers; as he puts it, he's on the side of people.
His powers include flight and the ability to manipulate density. He also has one of the Infinity Stones, the Mind Stone, at the center of his forehead, which allows its user to bend the minds of others, giving him a unique skill. (Comic fans will notice that the filmmakers changed the stone's color from blue to yellow and they're referred to as "stones" rather than "gems.") It came out of Loki's sceptre, which the Avengers obtain at the beginning of the film. This will likely come into play in the Avengers: Infinity War movies, since villain Thanos is trying to find all the Infinity Stones. Without giving too much away about the film, Vision becomes a member of the Avengers by the end of the movie.
In the comics, Vision actually starts a romantic relationship with Scarlet Witch. They have a brief - but tender - moment in Age of Ultron, and you'll have to see Civil War to find out if their flirtation continues. Bettany did, however, acknowledge the nod in an interview with Vulture.
Too long; didn't read? Vision is a flying android created by Ultron who fights for the Avengers and may become Scarlet Witch's boyfriend.
The 1 Reason Your Dried Spices Taste Like Crap
If you cook at home a lot, you probably turn to the arsenal of dried spices in your kitchen on a regular basis . . . but are you storing them correctly? I keep most of my spices lined up in a row on top of my stove for convenience (plus I live in a studio apartment, so space is limited). But I recently learned an important tip from Simply Organic that changed the way I store my spices, which you should keep in mind, too.
Avoid storing spices in direct sunlight or by any heat sources.
Spices break down when they're exposed to light or heat, so it's not a good idea to them on a spice rack near a window or simply placed above or near your stove. Instead, keep them concealed in a cabinet or, if you're as organized as Ina Garten is, in a drawer entirely dedicated to spices with labeled glass jars. Ground spices stay good for two to three years, so that's a long time they could be sitting in your kitchen - don't you want to make sure you're getting the best flavor out of them?
That's the most essential tip to getting the best use out of your spices, but these are helpful, too.
- Gently cush dried herbs in the palm of your hands. When cooking with dried herbs, like when adding basil and oregano to homemade tomato sauce, gently crush them in your hands above the pot/pan before adding them in. This releases some of the oils that are packed inside and will yield more flavor.
- Roast spices for more flavor. Any spice - especially bold spices like cumin and turmeric - benefits from a little heat. Before cooking with them, gently toast dried spices by stirring constantly in a flat pan on low heat for a few minutes, until they're fragrant.
- Add spices early when making cold dishes. For cold dishes like dips and salad dressings, add spices as early as possible to ensure enough time for flavor infusion (heat releases spices' flavors, so no-heat dishes require more time for the flavors to marry).
- Look for true bay leaves (Laurus nobilis). To get the most flavor out of one of the most common enhancers for soups and sauces (the bay leaf), look for the botanical name Laurus nobilis - this means the bay leaves came from an evergreen tree that's native to the Mediterannean region and have the truest flavor.
Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan Worship Paul Rudd as Much as You Do
Captain America: Civil War is one of the most intense and serious Avengers movies in the franchise, but there are some laughs, thanks to cast members Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan. We sat down to chat with the two stars, who talked about which Avenger they were excited to work with - the answer will not surprise you.
Brandi Milloy Gets Hog-Wild on Eat This Now
Four chefs, one pig. Our very own Brandi Milloy goes behind the kitchen with some top culinary talent in Cooking Channel special Eat This Now. Brandi takes a culinary adventure across Los Angeles as she meets up with chefs doing cool and innovative things with pork! Chef Jet Tila of Stir Market shares his secret tips for whipping up a succulent porchetta, Chef Nguyen Tran serves up a delectable pork belly sandwich at Button Mash, and Chef Steven Fretz (who wows at The Church Key) turns pig ears into a delicious midnight snack! Finally, Chef David LeFevre from M.B. Post shows Brandi how he makes pork and shrimp dumplings from scratch! There's more can't-miss kitchen action (including an Elvis-inspired bacon treat!) as Brandi gets real and proves we have to eat this now. Tune in for her special debut on Eat This Now, premiering Monday, May 9, at 9:30 p.m. EDT/6:30 p.m. PDT on Cooking Channel.
Here's Your First Look at Disney's Elena of Avalor's Princess Gown
Just a couple of months ahead of the Disney Channel release of Elena of Avalor, featuring the first Disney Latina princess, we're getting a look at the special gown she'll be wearing.
The princess, who saves her kingdom from an evil sorceress in the cartoon series, will wear a beautiful scarlet off-the-shoulder flowy gown with floral details around the neck and bodice of the dress, ruffles, and a pink bow around the waist. The creation comes from Project Runway All Stars' Layana Aguilar, who has designed pieces for Beyoncé, Heidi Klum, and Dascha Polanco in the past.
More exciting news: this is the dress Elena will wear when she appears at Walt Disney World starting this August and at Disneyland in the Fall. Look ahead for a closer look at the gown, then check out images of the Elena doll Disney is releasing with Hasbro.
The Quickest "We Wear Short Shorts" Leg Workout
Your legs are truly lovely and take you everywhere you want to go, but if you sometimes scan them in the mirror and think of cottage cheese, here's a workout for you. Strengthen and tone your powerful gams with this quick and effective workout. Just press play and get ready to show your legs some love.
Looking for more quick workouts? Check out these fitness quickies:
The Ultimate Inner-Thigh Workout
10 Things You Can Do Today to Be Happy
Let's be honest: when it comes to negative thinking, most of us need to check ourselves before we wreck ourselves. Whether it's traffic on the freeway or the weight we've gained in our arms, we are seasoned vets at focusing our attention on all the things that we wish were somehow better or different.
As a life coach and an inspirational speaker, I am constantly being asked for quick-fix tips for inducing happiness and reducing stress. My answer is always the same: if we want to be happy, we have to learn how to turn the volume down on our negativity and shift our awareness to the parts of our lives that are working, to thoughts and ideas that make us feel inspired and uplifted.
The reason for this is that, unbeknownst to many, negative thinking is the number one cause of unhappiness in humans. That's right. It's not your lack of sleep or your cranky boss that is bringing you down, it's your thoughts about these things that cause you to be less than your naturally exuberant self.
An incredible method for shifting away from the negative and into the positive is an exercise that I call "The Flip Switch." The Flip Switch is a great tool for instant happiness, as well as for kick-starting our brains into the habit of focusing only on the thoughts that make us feel empowered and optimistic. If it is practiced regularly, The Flip Switch will benefit us emotionally, mentally, and also biologically (think endorphins, new neural pathways, and extra serotonin, oh my!) in our quest for happiness.
Application of The Flip Switch: When you find yourself drowning in a downward spiral of negative thoughts - or even just treading water in them! - this list is your life preserver. To stop negativity in its tracks, shift your attention onto one of the activities on the list below for a few minutes (or as long as you feel is necessary) when you first notice negative self-talk start to come up.
- Listen to music that you love. Music is an extremely powerful tool for shifting your mood and mindset. Just make sure to choose music that energizes and elates you.
- Call someone who understands and supports you. Hearing the voice of someone we love or a friend who gives great advice is always an instant pick-me-up.
- Get into nature. My personal favorite. There is nothing that calms and soothes me more than watching a sunset or being on the beach by my house.
- Meditate. This is a great go-to when you find yourself already pretty deep in the downward spiral. When we are stuck in negative thought patterns, the first physical shift that occurs is that we stop breathing. Shifting our focus onto our breath causes our minds to slow down and brings immediate relief.
- Laugh. Laughter is hands down the best remedy for releasing tension. Watch a silly movie or a YouTube video, or remember a joke that never gets old.
- Exercise/get in your body. When we are moving and being active, we shake up energy and shift our focus away from our mind and into our physicality. Even if this means running in place for 30 seconds or doing a silly dance in your office bathroom, I promise you will feel a difference.
- Appreciate what is around you. Look around your environment and make a conscious effort to list and appreciate everything in your field of vision that you like. Maybe it's the way the man on the subway is holding his baby, or maybe it's the photo of your parents that you keep on your desk. Negative thoughts cannot enter our minds when we are in a state of appreciation, so appreciate, appreciate, appreciate!
- Make a gratitude list. When you feel the onset of negativity, quickly turn your thoughts to everything in your life that you are grateful for. This high-vibe tactic diffuses the negativity and is like a reset button for your brain. I have a list I carry in my wallet of all the things I'm happy about - it's my secret weapon that I pull out and look at when I start to feel down.
- Do an act of kindness. Studies have shown that giving to others elevates levels of dopamine in the brain and instantly boots feel-good brainwaves.
- Create your own! You know yourself better than anyone. If the items on this list don't particularly invigorate you, just think of the things that make you smile and do that! Eat your favorite food, look at a photograph that reminds you of an awesome vacation . . . Anything that feels good is fair game.
Some items on the list may work better for you than others, so choose the activities that excite you most. You will know when you have successfully "flipped the switch" because you will a) feel better and b) feel much more neutral about the triggering issue that set off the negative thoughts in the first place.
Cheers to your newfound state of bliss, and happy Flipping!
Find more inspiration from Molly on her Instagram!
Tennis Star Andy Murray's Sexy Miami Condo Is Worth Purchasing For the Views Alone
Olympic gold medalist and No. 2 tennis player in the world, Andy Murray, listed his Miami condo - which he snagged for $1.575 million in 2008 - for $2.99 million. Standing on the 45th floor of Jade Residences, the 3,415-square-foot unit includes four bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms with surrounding views of the Biscayne Bay and Miami skyline. Its floor-to-ceiling glass walls and sliders are the condo's biggest selling points. Slab marble flooring takes over the dining room side, while the living room boasts dark hardwood floors. The British-flag pillow on the couch is a cute reminder of home for him and wife Kim Sears. The master bedroom enjoys direct views of the bay, two walk-in closets, and a spacious terrace that can also be accessed through the shared living and dining area.
The 48-story building's amenities are impressive with two infinity swimming pools, a fitness center and spa, and a rooftop lounge. And just in case you were doubting Andy's lavish lifestyle, he also has a mansion in South London that is valued at $7.9 million in addition to a $2.9 million Victorian mansion outside his Scottish hometown.
Look ahead to see more photos of the unit.
Why You Sometimes Gain Back the Weight You've Worked So Hard to Lose
Seeing the numbers on the scale rise after you've worked hard to shed those pounds can be devastating. Although there are all kinds of factors that can contribute to weight gain after weight loss, a new study, published in Obesity, shows that one factor has the biggest impact: your metabolism. When your metabolism slows down, the pounds pack back on.
The study, which followed 14 contestants from the hit series The Biggest Loser, found that all except one person regained weight after being on the show. Thirteen regained weight within six years, and four were even heavier than they were before they started the competition.
"The key point is that you can be on TV, you can lose enormous amounts of weight, you can go on for six years, but you can't get away from a basic biological reality," said Dr. Schwartz to The New York Times. "As long as you are below your initial weight, your body is going to try to get you back."
This is what happened to Danny Cahill, season eight winner of The Biggest Loser, who had shed over 239 pounds during the seven months on the show but steadily regained more than 100 pounds once the competition ended. Researchers found that Danny's metabolism had slowed down and anything excess he consumed quickly turned into fat.
"All my friends were drinking beer and not gaining massive amounts of weight," said Danny. "The moment I started drinking beer, there goes another 20 pounds. I said, 'This is not right. Something is wrong with my body.'"
Researchers in the study also found that people who have gone through dramatic weight loss suffer low levels of leptin, the hormone that controls hunger. Lower levels of leptin contribute to those food cravings, which is what plagues The Biggest Loser contestant Erinn Egbert, who went from 263 pounds to just under 176 on the show.
"What people don't understand is that a treat is like a drug," said Erinn. "Two treats can turn into a binge over a three-day period. That is what I struggle with." She now weighs between 152 to 157 pounds and works really hard to maintain that weight.
While producers of the show are evaluating the findings from the study, we can easily draw our own conclusions from the article. The lesson learned? Keeping the weight off is much harder than shedding those initial pounds. With the right combination of metabolism-friendly foods and exercise and knowledge of your own body, maintaining your weight is a daily job.
Beyoncé's Latest Investment Is Not What You'd Expect, but We're Excited Anyway
Cold-pressed watermelon juice sounds so good right now, especially if Beyoncé is backing it up. The singer announced she's investing in and partnering with WTRMLN WTR, a cold-pressed watermelon juice company that targets athletes and health-conscious consumers.
Earlier last month, Beyoncé unveiled her athleisure line, Ivy Park, and this new venture proves she's serious about making her mark in the world of sports brands.
"I invested in WTRMLN WTR because it's the future of clean, natural hydration; as partners, we share a simple mission to deliver accessible wellness to the world", said Beyoncé in a press release. "This is more than an investment in a brand, it's an investment in female leaders, fitness, American farmers, and the health of people and our planet."
The drink, which has no added sugar or water, is made with 1.2 pounds of watermelon and comes in bottles fit for Instagram-savvy fitness bloggers. Each bottle also contains six times as many electrolytes compared to other sports drinks, a plus for the athletes out there; watermelon is full of antioxidants and vitamins A and C. If you can't find any in your area, you can always make your own watermelon juice at home.
Though we're kind of depressed that there isn't a lemonade version (yet), WTRMLN WTR sounds as refreshing as it looks.
What Happens in Captain America: Civil War's End Credits Scenes (Spoiler Alert!)
If your favorite part of a new Marvel movie is staying firmly seated in the theater until you're rewarded with a special after-credits sequence, you're about to be very happy. Captain America: Civil War has two end-credits scenes, meaning there is a combined a total of 19 post-credits scenes in all the Marvel movies. Spoiler alert, I'm about to detail both scenes, so if you don't want to know what happens, now is a good time to stop reading!
The Midcredits Scene
After the dust settles from the big battle and the credits have begun rolling, the first bonus scene pops up. Bucky is all strapped in getting a medical exam, and it appears that he's about to undergo the freezing process again. Cap asks him if he's just about it, and Bucky responds that he can't trust his own mind. The camera zooms out, and you see that they're at a facility owned by T'Challa (aka Black Panther). T'Challa assures Cap that no one will find Bucky there, and the camera zooms out even further beyond the building to show the jungles of Wakanda - complete with a big rock formation in the shape of a panther's head.
It's a great look at what kind of scenery we'll get in 2018's Black Panther movie, and it sets up a new storyline that Black Panther is now Bucky's protector.
The End-Credits Scene
Spider-Man's introduction is one of the most exciting parts of Civil War, and while we get to see a lot of him in the movie, there's a special sneak peek after the credits, too. He's in his bedroom back in Queens, checking out his new gear (courtesy of Iron Man) when Aunt May walks in. She asks how he got all bruised up, and he replies that some kid named Steve from Brooklyn did it. That's true; he's referring to Captain America. Once she's gone, he engages her webshooter, and it projects the new Spider-Man logo. The final words? "Spider-Man will return."
Indeed he will! Spider-Man: Homecoming is due out July 7, 2017!
Proof That Chris Pratt and Anna Faris Are the Funniest Couple in All the Land
Anna Faris and Chris Pratt are one of our favorite celebrity couples, and while we're really happy they found each other, we're even more grateful that they found their way onto the big and small screens. Pratt made us laugh for years on Parks and Recreation before he hit the big screen in Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World. Meanwhile, Faris broke out in the Scary Movie series before settling into her gig on CBS's Mom. Both actors are hugely talented at making us laugh, and after Faris's recent tweet about Pratt's, ahem, business, it only seems fitting to highlight their various skills on the screen. Take a look and just try to tell us they're not totally perfect for each other.
10 Places You've Seen Sebastian Stan Before Captain America: Civil War
If you're a devotee of the Marvel movie franchise, then you won't have any trouble recognizing Sebastian Stan's pretty face when he shows up again as Bucky Barnes in Captain America: Civil War. Outside of the Captain America movies, Stan's got a résumé that makes him one of those guys you know you've seen before, even if you can't immediately remember where it was (hint: it was probably Gossip Girl). Here's a quick refresher on some of Stan's most recognizable roles.
35 Emotional Reactions You Had to Captain America: Civil War
As fun as Marvel movies are, they never cease to make us emotional. Our jaws drop at the battle sequences, we giggle at Tony Stark's quips, and, yes, we may even shed a tear at the inevitable emotional conclusion. This was certainly the case for Captain America: Civil War, one of the best films in the Avengers series. There is so much you'll want to know after seeing this movie (and you should definitely brush up on what to remember before checking it out), but to start with, here's a roundup of every reaction you had to the movie's various memorable moments. Massive spoiler alert!
8 Reasons to Seriously Reconsider Buying a Microfiber Sofa
Microfiber has long been touted as stain-proof, and microfiber-upholstered sofas the assumed choice for parents and pet-owners; alas, just as with granite countertops, the reality is somewhat different. The fabric has some undesirable qualities (not actually being stain-proof amongst them) that will make you think twice before purchasing.
Perhaps even more surprising than microsuede's cons are the pros of natural fabrics. Cotton, linen, wool, and other natural fabric upholstery cleans up better and more easily than microfiber, and leather is significantly more durable than microfiber.
Here's why: microfiber . . .
- Tends to create a ton of static, making it hard to move around on the furniture
- Is a magnet for pet hair and clothing fibers
- Is highly absorbent and can absorb up to seven times its weight in water, making it awful for spills
- Especially loves to soak up sugary liquids (and never let go)
- Grabs onto skin and hair oils to stained effect
- Is nearly impossible to spot-clean because even soap and water will leave a ring
- Stretches out and become distorted easily, especially in high-usage areas
- Is very heat-sensitive and warps under high temperatures
This Hedgehog's Funny Smile Will Make Your Day So Much Better
In case you're looking for a new Instagram obsession or need a little something to brighten up your day, Huff the Hedgehog can take care of both. The adorable palm-size critter, whose formal name is Hodge Huffington, has more than 18,000 Instagram followers thanks to his funny smile. Huff's buck teeth are also making him famously known as the "vampire" hedgehog.
Since being adopted by student Carolyn Parker, the 3-year-old African pygmy hedgehog is having the most lovely adventures around Utah. What started off as just for fun grew into his current online fame. "I started taking pictures of Huff just for fun and sharing the pictures on Facebook," said Parker to ABC News. "I, like a lot of people, struggle with seasonal depression and taking cute pictures with Huff always cheered me up. Still does!"
You'll completely agree with Parker after looking at some of the insanely cute photos ahead with captions of what we think he'd say. Huff and Marutaro the Hedgehog would probably be the best of friends!
This Family Puts the Fit in Fitness Once You See Their Acrobatic Moves
A family of four proves no workout is too tough for them to conquer. In a GIF posted by JakInTheBox, a dad lies on the grass while his wife pulls off a handstand scorpion (with their little girl on her back!). While most of us are struggling to do this on the yoga mat, the mom effortlessly lifts herself by balancing on her husband's knees. We've seen families working out together before and are always amazed by what little kids can do. These familes are definitely stronger and more flexible than we imagine. Just watch out for the little boy in the end when his father lifts him up. The kid doesn't miss a beat and even gives his sister a little pat on the head.
Related: Think You Can't Fit In a Workout? If This Mom Can, You Have No Excuses
11 Stuffed Chicken Recipes That Make Dinner Way More Exciting
If you can't possibly eat another baked chicken breast (we feel you), it's time to switch things up by stuffing your chicken. Stuffed recipes are way more fun for obvious reasons, and chicken is an easy way to get in on the trend - you can stuff it with just about anything (cheese, veggies, compound butter) - and it'll be a success. These 11 recipes might convince you there's no better way to eat chicken for dinner.
8 Things You Absolutely Must Do in Caguas, Puerto Rico
About an hour outside San Juan lies another picturesque Puerto Rican city: Caguas.
The biggest urban spot in the Central Mountain Range, Caguas (founded in 1775) offers beautiful scenery, good food, historic buildings - and all at walkable distances, starting at one central location: Santiago R. Palmer plaza.
With delicious coffee at Cafe Palmer, family-friendly attractions (including a carousel), and all kinds of must-try food carts, you could spend all day inside this park. But you shouldn't, because Caguas is such a fun city to explore! Read on to discover the eight things you've got to experience during your stay.
Ways For Introverts to Get Their Energy Back When Other Humans Suck It Out of Them
I love people, kind of. I enjoy being social, occasionally. But people also really, really stress me out. To the casual observer, I'm probably perceived as somewhat of an extrovert, mainly because I can hold a conversation (never mind how many hundreds of times I go over that conversation in my head afterward), and because I am pretty talkative.
Because of this, it sometimes comes as a surprise to the people around me when I turn down an invitation to an event or even to a quiet cup of coffee when I physically cannot be around them anymore. This is no fault of their own; I'm just a true introvert at heart, and when my mental battery is drained, I can't find the energy to interact with people until I've done something to recharge it again. I love all things Myers & Briggs, and I recently came across a Quora thread with tips from introverts on different ways to "recharge" themselves. If you're a hardcore introvert like me, these tips may really help you figure out ways to make the most of your happiness - both socially and personally. Here's what you can do to get some of your energy back when other humans suck it out of you.
1. Recharge via output.
Whether it be photography, crafting, cooking, knitting, painting, gardening, or even coloring, introverts can benefit greatly by creating something. By testing their own abilities and patience and by having something - big or small - to show for it at the end, we enjoy a sense of accomplishment. "When I actually finish a task that I had set to myself and that was creating backlog, something that I had to do alone . . . I feel recharged," said Quora user Sagorika Sinha. "These are crafts that are actually really simple to make but that take a lot of time that I can spend alone. I have patience. The fact that they turn out pretty (sometimes I have no idea of what the result will be) it feels like a real victory over something."
2. Shop alone.
It may seem counterintuitive to send an introvert out into the wild (aka to a store or the mall), but it's not necessarily people in general introverts need a break from, but interactions with people that require a lot of effort. Sometimes getting in the zone at the grocery store or mall can allow introverts to check things off their list and feel accomplished - but these trips are usually better when done during off-hours and with headphones in.
3. Socialize in a small group.
"It's not always that we need silence to recharge ourselves. Sometimes we do so by socializing with others, and in such cases the group is either two or three people," said Quora user Wasio Abbasi. "It's mostly trusted friends with whom we can be ourselves and not sit awkwardly, have a good and meaningful discussion. We can even spend hours talking in such a group. But increase the number of people and we are done for. Too many people to listen and talk to, and energy goes down real fast."
4. Take a long drive.
I don't think there's anything that helps me recharge more than a long drive alone. Introverts are able to literally distance themselves from people and feel comfortable in their own controlled environment while experiencing the freedom of mobility that driving (especially down long, open roads) provides.
5. Avoid any contact with people.
Sometimes introverts really, truly need to be by themselves. "Imagine it like this," said Quora user Wasio Abbasi. "The more we have to speak and/or hear others speaking, the more tired we become. The more tired we get, the more silent we become (which was a lot to begin with). When there is no contact with anyone, and this sometimes include SMS/web chats too, we feel relaxed. It's like our being is at harmony again. The world feels right, the time feels right, everything feels right, and we stay in that bliss until we feel rejuvenated enough to interact with the world again." Couldn't have put it better myself.
6. Read or write.
There is no better escape for an introvert than through a good book. We are able to get inside our own heads, or better yet, inside another world completely. In these worlds, real or not, introverts can retreat into themselves - a place they are typically the most comfortable - and gain energy from within. Similarly, writing is a way escape and to express our thoughts and feelings in a productive way without having to verbalize anything at all.
7. Enjoy self-entertainment.
Being an introvert is kind of like being your own little one-person party. Which is actually pretty awesome, because we have no problem enjoying ourselves doing countless activities alone. The most important thing to understand about an introvert is that being alone does not equal being lonely.
8. Try single-person exercise.
Take up yoga, Pilates, dance, or any type of activity that is both good for your body and good for your inner introvert. Meditation is not necessarily a workout per se, but it's another way for us to regroup within ourselves and can be just as beneficial health-wise as other single-person exercise.
9. Listen to music.
One of the easiest ways to recharge, even if you are surrounded by people, is by listening to music. It can be done anywhere and it's a way to shut out all of the external factors that tend to stress out introverts. Commuting, shopping, exercising, traveling are all things I simply don't enjoy unless I have my headphones in; introverts can use this time to recharge while giving off a not-so-subtle signal to other people that they want to be left alone. Just hope they take the hint!
10. Clean the house.
To be completely honest, cleaning the house is one of the most effective ways for me to completely recharge myself. There is something so rejuvenating about being alone and having free reign over your home - one of the most cherished spaces for an introvert. I love to turn on music, light some candles, and get completely lost in cleaning the house from top to bottom. It can take hours, but afterward I am not only recharged, but I have a spotless house to show for it. It's a win-win.
11. Be alone with your thoughts.
"Sometimes I am literally just sitting down and taking the weight off my feet while the same thing is metaphorically going on in my brain," said Quora user Michael Peacock. "It might mean taking an hour or longer to take off my shoes and socks at the end of the day because I'm too busy thinking . . . stuff. And then on the other end; when I'm putting my socks on and getting ready to public; I'm rehearsing in my mind the people I will or might see and the kinds of conversations I will be expected to have with them. Sometimes that takes inordinately long, too."
Being alone in this case means potentially even avoiding TV and definitely social media, which can both add to internal clutter that wears us out. Sometimes (well, often, actually) we just need a mental break so that we can come back with a fresh perspective and the energy we need to interact with people again. It's just how we work!
15 Pieces of Advice From Your Mom You Should Always Listen To
Despite everything moms do for us, we definitely don't appreciate them enough. As we get older, we start to think of all the different ways to thank them - especially for all their advice over the years. On the popular social media sharing app Yik Yak, people shared the best life lessons from their mom. You'll tear up, totally agree, and want to call your mom ASAP. Read them ahead, and don't forget to get your mom something special for Mother's Day!
How to Keep Lemons Fresh For up to 3 Months
This tip for storing lemons is so easy. Accoring to Food.com, if you refrigerate lemons in a bowl of water, they will keep for up to three months! It sounds insane, but I'd be willing to give it a try. And if you want to extend the life of a lemon even futher, freeze the zest and the juice separately.
6 Recipes That Prove Avocado and Chocolate Are Perfect Together
Avocado and chocolate are amazing on their own, but imagine our surprise when we found that they somehow work together. Yes, you read that right - avocado mixed with chocolate. Given that avocado has a mild flavor, it takes on all the goodness of chocolate, but makes it even creamier. Besides tasting delicious and adding a boost of fiber, the addition of avocado also eliminates the need for dairy in classic dessert recipes.
Related: 15 Chocolate Protein Desserts
Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel's New Wicked Performance Will Change You For the Better
If you're a fan of the Broadway musical Wicked, then get ready to freak out. Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth originated the characters of Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, and the cast reunited for the production's "Out of Oz" series and it was simply magical. "First time singing with @idinamenzel in 12 years to honor @WICKED_Musical producer David Stone. So many memories!" Chenoweth wrote on Twitter. Not only do they perform their iconic track "For Good," but they also share a sweet moment as they hold hands during their duet. Honestly, you might need tissues for this one! See the full video above, and then check out Aaron Tveit's playful cover of another one of the show's big hits.
A Quick Reminder of Who's Still on the Avengers Team Before Captain America: Civil War
Avengers: Age of Ultron changed the game in terms of who is and isn't an Avenger, and it's worth brushing up on the events of the last movie before seeing Captain America: Civil War. Founding members have left, and newbies have stepped in. In case you didn't catch everything, here's what we gathered from Age of Ultron's final sequence. Take a look, and find out what we already know about the Infinity War movies!
Every Single Amazing Look Jennifer Lopez Wears in the "Ain't Your Mama" Video
Jennifer Lopez's new music video for her single "Ain't Your Mama" is a fashion- and beauty-lover's dream. The Puerto-Rican-American singer and actress, who has been spending time with boyfriend Casper Smart on set for Dirty Dancing, wears six incredible outfits and makeup and hair looks in the powerful (and fun) video for her Summer anthem - and, surprise, none of them show much skin.
From a 1950s-inspired floral dress and a blond wig to a white bodysuit with Rihanna For Manolo Blahnik boots, scroll ahead to see GIFs of every fashion statement J Lo makes in her video. You're sure to be inspired by them!
They're No Crown Jewels, but Queen Letizia's Accessories Are Definitely Ones You'll Want to Steal
Queen Letizia of Spain never ceases to impress us with her feminine-chic style. The Spanish royal, who continuously stays ahead of fashion trends, showed off her long legs in a sleek blue statement dress at the 2016 Ortega y Gasset awards in Madrid on May 5. But we only had eyes for her glamorous accessories - in the color every monarch owns: gold.
We loved her shiny heels and snake-skin-textured clutch, but we couldn't stop thinking about her delicate, eye-catching dangly earrings. Just look at how they elongate her face and steal the show! Read on to see more pictures of Letizia's multifunctional accessories in action (and shop her look). Then, check out her enviable style evolution.
The Epic Twitter Story Behind This Guy Who Got Pizza Delivered to His Train
Before embarking on a long trip, everyone should eat before and pack snacks and food for later. But British DJ Artwork did neither of these and had to learn this lesson the hard way - although his solution for his hunger made him our hero. Without any food options on his train ride from Glasgow to Sheffield, he decided to get pizza delivered to the next station stop. Not only was he successful, but he also documented the entire thing on Twitter like the milkshake guy (except we think this one might actually be true).
First, he realizes he's trapped without food.
What idiot would get onboard a five hour train journey without checking if it has a bar car and without getting any food or drink before ...
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
But then, he has this genius idea.
I'm going to try and get a pizza delivered to a train as it pulls in to a station. Bit of research needed
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
And calculates it to a T.
I think I'm going to try for Durham .... Not enough time for Newcastle http://pic.twitter.com/r6BQswOBfb
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
After a minor roadblock, he finds hope.
The bastard Internet is not working well enough to search for pizza places.
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
Guys guys guys ... Pizza is ordered. I take delivery at Darlington theoretically
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
He gets pretty hyped with only 20 minutes to Darlington.
The countdown begins http://pic.twitter.com/jdC5XvyngK
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
He's so close!
10 minutes http://pic.twitter.com/I3vAWqLczf
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
Domino's finally alerts him about the pizza delivery status.
http://pic.twitter.com/Rn6riRnoAd
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
The buildup is killing him.
Train is slowing
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
Brakes going on
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
Guys
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
Wait for it . . .
Get the fuck in http://pic.twitter.com/ergICtyu1F
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
This is what happiness looks like.
http://pic.twitter.com/SHjAnOQuQi
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
He even invites a guest to the pizza party!
Fuck me, look who just showed up as well !!!!!!! This is one hell of a day http://pic.twitter.com/oIh5Av6dTS
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
'ello Leslie ash wants a slice .... http://pic.twitter.com/v5i8ED4NUi
- Celebrity DJ Artwork (@artworkmagnetic) April 23, 2016
And pulls it off again the next day with a buddy.
A new era train travel will never be the same again :) http://pic.twitter.com/XFpMfutqey
- Klose One (@KloseOne) April 24, 2016
Next time you're craving pizza on the go, you know what to do!
Wait, HOW Much Is Taylor Swift Worth?!
Whether you love her or not, there's no denying that since the release of her album 1989, Taylor Swift has been at the height of her career - and with her worldwide tour, her ridiculously long list of famous friends, and her notorious relationship with her fans, it doesn't look like she's going anywhere anytime soon. She's broken all sorts of music records this year, but just how much is she making off her success? Spoiler alert: it's a sh*t ton. According to Forbes, Swift is worth over $200 million, with estimates upward of $240 million.
A May 2016 report from Billboard calculated that with the combination of her album sales (sans the help of Spotify), streaming, publishing, and touring, she raked in about $73.5 million in 2015. What's crazier is that's not even counting other income, coming from things like endorsements. In late 2015, it was estimated that in total she'd make about $365 million by the end of this past year.
So yeah, we'd say she's doing pretty well for herself. Keep it up, Tay!
The Gilmore Girls Cast Has Been Busy Posting Pictures From Behind the Scenes
Following the beyond-exciting news of the Gilmore Girls revival, the cast has been highly active on social media. They're currently filming on the set, and we have gathered all the pictures they have shared so far - including one from Jared Padalecki! - to get an early peek at one of the best things to happen to TV this year. Check them out, and then bone up on everything we know about the Gilmore Girls reboot!
This Cool Instagram Account Puts Our Favorite Characters Against Real-Life Backdrops
If you've ever wondered how your favorite TV show and movie characters would look if they walked among us, you're about to find out. Instead of posting selfies or brunch pictures, Instagram account 2d_here completely changes the game by incorporating characters from Adventure Time, Game of Thrones, Star Wars, and more into real-life settings.
It's understandable why this account has more than 4,000 followers - it mixes a bit of nostalgia, pop culture, and familiarity. By merging both worlds, "our favorite characters come to life, facing the sadness of reality," the creators said to Weird Russia.
Ahead you'll see characters like Deadpool, Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Yoda edited against real-life backdrops. Check out some of our favorites!
Rihanna Sent J Lo a Pair of Manolo Blahnik Boots to Wear in Her "Ain't Your Mama" Video
When Manolo Blahnik and Rihanna announced the launch of a limited-edition collection featuring denim-inspired boots and heels, we had visions of Jennifer Lopez wearing the styles on the red carpet and stage. The collection simply screams her name, and Rihanna obviously took notice, too.
In a recent Instagram, J Lo showed off a pair of Rihanna's 9 to 5 boots, embellished with a large sequined buckle and embroidery, with a note from the Barbados-born singer that reads: "To the baddest, because I know you're gonna wear them better than me!!! From: Badgalriri." And now we know why J Lo needed an advanced pair of the boots: for her incredibly badass "Ain't Your Mama" video. Check out a photo of Jennifer looking hot in the impressive heels above, then scroll ahead to see Rihanna's sweet note and take a closer look at the design.
How to Turn Your Backyard Into an Outdoor Living Room
"Indoor-outdoor living" might seem like a buzzy phrase from expensive real estate shows on reality TV, but this idyllic lifestyle is not just for the rich and famous. Blogger Sarah Sherman Samuels of Stories transformed her neglected backyard into an outdoor living room with a bit of heavy living and some DIY ingenuity. After clearing away the junk that had accumulated in her yard, she painted the cinder block barrier wall the same color as the house to make it feel like a continuation of the home. Rather than refinish the beat-up cement patio area, she threw an affordable outdoor area rug from West Elm over it, which both concealed the surface's imperfections and warmed up the space. To make the yard perfect for al fresco entertaining, Sarah created multiple seating areas, prime among them the built-in wooden benches that she and her husband DIYed. Get all the DIY details and full before and after pictures here on Stories.
How to Make an Old Sofa Look Brand New
If you're sick of your sofa but aren't quite ready to ditch it, these simple tricks can give it a fresh look. All it takes is a little styling magic, some sneaky switch-outs, and the secret to making saggy cushions look brand-new.
Source: Brittany Ambridge via Domino
10 Houseplants That Can Actually Improve Your Health
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Grace Hitchcock
You know that adding a houseplant or two can improve the look of a room, but did you know it can also improve your health? According to studies by NASA, certain plants can filter dangerous compounds commonly found in homes that are associated with respiratory illnesses, cancer, and more. This detailed infographic from Barratt Homes gives the lowdown on what's actually polluting your home and how you can combat the effects with beautiful plants! We're sold.
If You Struggle With Writing a Paper, Try Adding This 1 Awesome Line
One of the worst parts about college is definitely writing a paper. Most of us don't start until the night before and who's ever claimed to have fun in the process? But one student thought of the most genius way to make the experience slightly more tolerable.
Potterhead and Twitter user CaptainCaplin posted this:
Desperately trying to trick myself into doing some work http://pic.twitter.com/NylXLm8hgm
- Hen (@CaptainCaplin) April 23, 2016
What better way to add some flavor to your essays than to follow the lead of J.K. Rowling? We have to admit, anything that starts with "Harry Potter and the . . ." sounds way more appealing - something people must agree with, as the tweet has more than 13,000 "likes."
So next time you're struggling with writing a title or a paper - or with life in general - throw some magic into it.
This Hilarious Map Shows How Oddly Close These Celebrities Live to Their Moms
Image Source: Getty / Jeff Vespa
Just because you're a big-time celeb doesn't mean you don't need Mom. And clearly, that applies to the Jenner-Kardashian family, the Hawn and Hudsons, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Trulia mapped out exactly where each mentioned family member and their mother lives and turns out they're all oddly close at drive's distance. Aside from Kendall Jenner, all the Kardashian-Jenner kids are located roughly six miles or less from mom Kris. Kate Hudson is only a mile away from her best-friend-slash-mom Goldie Hawn, and her brother Oliver isn't too far away either. Lastly, Leo's mother Irmelin Indenbirken lives nine miles away in the home her son bought for her in Silver Lake, Los Angeles.
Check out the chart ahead for yourself!
Image Source: Trulia
Oh Sh*t - Everyone Can See What You've "Liked" on Facebook, but Don't Panic!
We all absentmindedly scroll through Facebook "liking" and reacting to posts as they come up on our News Feeds. Sometimes, you might "like" a post you shouldn't - like one of your former significant other that no one should know about - except any one of your friends can easily look it up. Don't fret! You can fix what you "like" on Facebook super quickly.
First, you should see if you even have any incriminating "likes" on your account. To do so, just search "photos 'liked' by me." At the top you'll see a collage of photos you've "liked." Hit "see more," and you'll get the full deal. If you see any photos you want gone from your history of "likes," you can easily un-"like" it from here. Or you can head to your activity log and un-"like" items there. To get to that section, hit the down arrow button at the top of your Facebook News Feed. From this drop-down menu, select "activity log." Once you're on this page, you'll see everything you've "liked" and who can see what.
You might not think this is such a big deal until you realize you can search for "photos 'liked' by my friends." There, you'll see every photo they've "liked" - which might include people you're not on good terms with, an ex, and so on. An example is below.
Thankfully, now you know how to change that. To master Facebook even more, check out more tips and tricks.
How Pet Insurance Saved This Sick Dog's Life
For me, pet insurance is one of those things that you're aware of but never actually take advantage of. Even though I have two cats, I've never even considered getting insurance because I just think they'll always be fine. (Something I regretted when my cat got sick last year.) But Pets Best Insurance is there for if I ever change my mind, and the pet insurance company has a whole host of success stories to show for itself to convince the nonbelievers. Take, for example, this story about Rex, as told by his human, below.
Nov. 20 was just like any other day in my household with work, gym time, and dinner for myself, my daughter, and my dogs. My Great Dane, Rex, had the hiccups and looked "off" to me after dinner. He began to wretch non-productively and started to drool uncontrollably. I suspected the worst - bloat. Bloat is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a dog's stomach distends with gas and fluid. I rushed Rex to the vet and soon enough, he needed surgery to the tune of $1,800. This amount would take up all of the Christmas money I had saved for my daughter, and I began to panic, until the reality of having insurance had set it. About six months prior to this incident, another one of my dog's has spinal cancer and I spent $4,000 to save his life. I had just finished paying off the debt. Being a single mom at the time, It was really hard for me to afford this. I couldn't be happier when I realized that this time I wouldn't have to pay an outstanding amount to keep my dog alive. Plus, I'd be able to give my daughter the Christmas she deserved!
The Entries For the Nat Geo Photo Contest Will Fill You With Deep Wanderlust
Need a reminder to take a vacation? Look no further than this year's entries for National Geographic's Travel Photographer of the Year contest. The photos range from truly spectacular nature shots to a new angle on animals. The contest, which ends May 27, includes three different categories: nature, cities, and people. Thinking about entering? You might want to give it a try, considering the grand prize winner will receive a seven-day polar bear photo safari for two.
Check out some of the entries ahead, complete with the original caption from the photographer. Sorry not sorry if you're suddenly thinking of traveling to these places. If you can't get enough of photos like these, take a look at last year's winners.
Don't Freak Out, but Hackers May Have Gotten Access to Your Email
You might want to change your password ASAP. Due to a massive hack, approximately 270 million email usernames and passwords have been exposed and left vulnerable to a shady, underground network of criminals in Russia. The majority of compromised accounts are from a popular Russian email service, Mail.ru, but the breech has also affected Gmail, Yahoo, and Microsoft credentials.
According to Reuters, the hack was uncovered when the experts at Hold Security found a Russian hacker openly boasting about it in an online forum. The hacker also disclosed that he was planning to sell all the account information he had gathered. In total, 24 million Gmail, 40 million Yahoo, and 33 million Microsoft accounts were exposed.
One security officer, Alex Holden, discussed the magnitude of the situation to Reuters. "This information is potent," he said. "It is floating around in the underground and this person has shown he's willing to give the data away to people who are nice to him." Holden also spoke about the bleak outlook for these passwords. "These credentials can be abused multiple times," he said.
Then it got really weird. Apparently when the hacker was approached by Hold Security, he said he would agree to hand over all the data so long as the firm just posted nice comments about him in popular hacker forums. So, problem solved, right? Well, it's recommended that you still change your password if you happen to have an account with one of the affected services . . . just in case.
jeudi 5 mai 2016
How to Throw a Last-Minute Kentucky Derby Party That Wows
Has the Kentucky Derby snuck up on you this year? Don't worry! It's not too late to throw a fabulous party for the horse race - even if you have little money to spend and even less time to plan. Actress and entertaining pro Haylie Duff of the Real Girl's Kitchen blog and Cooking Channel show shared with us her tips for throwing an easy yet elegant Kentucky Derby party. Check out her tips here, and visit Haylie's blog for her Derby menu.
17 Tech Gifts Under $100 Perfect For Every Mom
Whether your mom has the latest iPhone or prefers to keep her tech simple, we've rounded up the best gifts for her that won't hurt your wallet. Each of these gifts are stylish and useful, from a sleek Macbook dock to a cute iPhone wallet case. Take a look ahead and let this just be one way to let her know how much you love her. If you need any further insipration, check out some other tech gift ideas that might be a tiny bit pricier.
This Will Make You See Percy Weasley in a Whole New Way
In the words of Ron Weasley, Percy Weasley is, in many ways, "the world's biggest git." Of the Weasley clan, the third oldest brother is always the butt of the family jokes. He is pompous, he's an overachiever, and he famously chooses his job at the Ministry of Magic over his family. Percy might be many things, but most of all, he is misunderstood. So let's talk about Percy, who is perhaps the least endearing Weasley sibling but certainly not without his strong suits.
A recent Reddit thread explored why Percy is the way he is and delved into his motivations behind both his good and his bad choices in the Harry Potter series. He doesn't always have it easy, but considering his circumstances, things aren't quite as black and white with the former head boy as they seem. And if you really think about it, he is pretty remarkable in his own way. Redditor booksblanketsandtea brought up some pretty interesting observations.
Can we talk about how an incredibly ambitious young man likely ended up in the worst possible House for him because he was terrified of disappointing his family? Can we talk about how he'd been told his entire life that to be ambitious (to be Slytherin) was a bad thing? Can we talk about how protective he was of Ron and Ginny when they came to Hogwarts? How proud he was of Ron, for besting McGonagall's chess set (because who do you think taught Ron how to play? It certainly wasn't the twins, and I doubt either Molly or Arthur had time).
Can we talk about how Percy felt more accepted and comfortable at the Ministry - where people couldn't even remember his name - than he did with his own family, who made him the butt of practically every joke, who either looked down on his goals, or couldn't be bothered to show an interest simply because it wasn't something they themselves were keen on? (And people wonder why he sided with the Ministry over his family, over Harry - who was a complete stranger and was more easily accepted than he ever was?)
Let's talk about how maybe Gryffindor was the right House for him - because even after all this, when he was proved wrong, he had the guts to come back, to apologise to his family that he loved (and who did, of course, love him - even if they didn't really understand him). Can we talk about how brave that was? "Perfect Percy" admitting he was wrong to his Father who [he] had once idolized, and then working as a spy for the Order? Keeping that distance between he and the rest of the family in place so he could feed them info about the Ministry? Before he turned up at the last minute to help fight at the Battle of Hogwarts? About how he lost his little brother, who - if Percy had been just a minute or two later down that passageway - would have died practically hating him? About how Percy likely went the rest of his life thinking that - if given the chance - his family would rather that he had died, instead of Fred? How he himself likely wished that that had been the case? Can we talk about how Percy Weasley was, in the end, perhaps the perfect amalgamation of Slytherin and Gryffindor? Just - can we talk about Percy?
Should we give Percy a little more mercy? Maybe if Percy had been in Slytherin instead of Gryffindor, he would have been able to foster his talents differently. Maybe if he'd been able to relate to his family more and if they'd been more open to who he was despite his undeniable prat-like qualities, he would have felt closer to them despite his job at the Ministry.
But let us not forget that when it really matters, Percy comes back for his family. He bursts into the Battle of Hogwarts ready to fight alongside the rest of the Weasleys, and he does something that many people - even the beloved heroes of Harry Potter - have a hard time doing: he admits he was wrong. He initiates a reconciliation and does what he can to start to repair his relationship with his family and begin again with them all. Brave, brilliant, calculating, ambitious, and loyal. Yep, sounds like the perfect combination of a Slytherin and Gryffindor to me, too.
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