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.
jeudi 2 mars 2017
Are Your Workouts Too Intense? The Pros and Cons of HIIT
Is there such a thing as too much HIIT? Can you go too hard? Billy Polson, founder of DIAKADI and CSCS, thinks so.
Why? He says it can mess with building muscle and metabolism. "Extreme cardio workouts like 60-minute Spin classes or high-heart-rate-only boot camps are often too much cardio for the body to allow for effective body fat reduction," Billy said. "This intensive volume of cardio will often cause your body to stall its fat reduction, instead reducing your muscle mass and slowing your metabolism."
But . . . does that mean we have to skip our favorite classes? We're not quite ready to let go! Especially because we always feel so good from that endorphin rush and the energy in the room. "I know these classes can be great fun with the high of pushing your body to the limit and the inspiration of the group around you, but I recommend a maximum of only one of these a week," Billy said.
Let's say that we want to keep going to our favorite HIIT classes - but want to avoid the risk of losing muscle from too much cardio. To get another perspective on this, we asked personal trainer and Barry's Bootcamp instructor Erica Stenz for her thoughts, and she agrees that you can do too much HIIT, but there are ways to keep yourself safe.
"As with anything in excess, too much of HIIT training every week can be more detrimental than positive for sure," Erica told POPSUGAR. "But it all depends on your duration, your recovery - like stretching and foam rolling - your nutrition, and your body!"
She recommends HIIT more than once a week, crediting improved muscle memory as not only a benefit of your consistency but also a way to stay safe. "It's important to condition your body for multiple days of high-intensity training every week - that's the main reason why I recommend my clients take at least two to three Barry's classes a week, versus once a week or only once in a while. You will gain muscle memory and strength to prevent you from injuring yourself."
Equinox trainer Kyle Panela says if you're into this kind of group fitness, it's imperative to have a strong base before getting into fast-paced classes. "Stamina, coordination, mobility, strength, and form are all factors that should be determined before jumping into a class," he said, noting that without any prior experience, you could get hurt (hence why Barry's Bootcamp is listed on ClassPass as "Advanced" - they're not kidding!).
Kyle recommends doing a little homework before trying a new class. Is the class advanced? Do you have the strength and skill set to take on this challenge, or do you need a little more practice and fine-tuning? What can you do to prepare? "You should definitely research or even watch the class before you sign up for it," he said. "It's crucial to gain knowledge of certain movement patterns through strength training - hip hinges, scapular retraction, proper squats, and good thoracic, shoulder, hip, and knee mobility - before doing more dynamic or complex movements."
And that way, no matter what schedule you set up for yourself - Billy's recommended one class per week, or Erica's two to three - you're physically prepared to have a safe, fun, effective workout and reap the benefits of the endorphin rush and "high."
Back to Billy's warning of muscle loss: Erica believes this all comes down to nutrition. "For people who are worried about muscle loss in HIIT, I recommend taking a BCAA supplement before their workout to prevent muscle loss, and also drinking a carb-and-protein-packed shake within 30 minutes after the workout [to help with muscle recovery]." She says the best way to achieve your desired results with HIIT training is "with the right balance of nutrition and body maintenance (like stretching, foam rolling, massages, etc)."
Billy maintains that if your goal is weight loss, "Twenty minutes of interval [training], only two days a week is much better for assisting with fat reduction." He understands that it might seem counter-intuitive to what you've been taught: "For many, this idea of reducing cardio to lose fat is a very scary step to try, as most of us are still following the old philosophy that cardio is the best way to burn fat."
If you're still apprehensive, Billy says to give yourself a two-week trial away from your typical cardio schedule. "Do a prior weigh-in and measurements (body fat test included). Then take two full weeks where you nail your nutrition perfectly and remove all endurance cardio sessions that are over 20 minutes long, only doing two 20-minute cardio sessions and four strength-training sessions each week."
He admitted that it might not work for everyone, as everyone's body is different. "Worst-case scenario, you can go right back to your old routine after two weeks if this doesn't work. But trust me, you will see better results."
Our suggestion? Try both. Like we said - everyone's body is different. There's no cookie-cutter plan for everyone. It's also important to note that not everyone's goal is weight loss; in fact, many women are working out to improve their mental health, build endurance and strength, and even socialize. As long as you're listening to your body, staying safe, and consulting with a doctor (and even your trainer), then try these different methods to see what works best for you.
mercredi 1 mars 2017
The First and Last Lines of the Harry Potter Books Will Send You on a Roller Coaster of Emotions
The witches and wizards in the world of Harry Potter came a LONG way over the course of seven novels. If you're a hardcore fan, then it probably felt a bit like it was your own journey as well. Rereading the first line of The Sorcerer's Stone and the last line of The Deathly Hallows back to back will make you feel so many things. It's bittersweet, it's funny, it's nostalgic, and it will definitely make you smile. Or cry. Or both.
We put together the first and last sentences of all the books, and they'll remind you of everything, good and bad, that your favorite characters made it through (or didn't make it through; still not OK about the whole Fred thing, Rowling). Yet still, in the end, all was well.
Why 1 Handbag Is No Longer Enough
Last season, we were tightening our handbag straps, lifting them to chest level to make a statement. But for Fall 2017, we're seeing a new trend take hold. From the runways to the street, bag layering is the name of the game. Whether it's by affixing a change purse to a larger satchel or simply coordinating two different totes, more is definitely more.
In Milan, Gucci debuted a new connector strap which hooks together three different pouches. The following day, Fendi revealed the new Run Away double-handle bag, along with a classic "F" key fob that comes with an accordion of clutches. Finally, Lanvin made a case for swinging two crossbodies around the shoulder in Paris. While we'll have to wait until next season to get our hands on those designs, a scroll through some IRL inspiration will leave you full of ideas for mastering the look.
Aside from its obvious allure - this is an easy way to add an extra dash of color and extra dimension to your outfit - the move allows for better organization, too. Credit cards in the tiniest compartment, phone or iPad in the largest - and you can say goodbye to that worn-out canvas tote. Ahead, we have some quick tips for bag layering and our shopping picks to help you accomplish the task at hand.
The 20 Things Our Editors Are Shopping Right Now
Fashion Week runways planted the seed, now all we want to do is welcome March's - and Spring's - arrival with some shopping. We're all about shedding layers, brightening up our color wheel, and stepping into fresh footwear (buh-bye, boots!) to carry us through the few transitional weeks and finally into sunny Spring days. Ready to kiss your Winter wardrobe goodbye? Read on to see what our editors - and friend designer Misha Nonoo - are shopping for the month ahead.
23 Easter Cupcakes That Your Little Bunnies Will Hop For
Hip hop your way into Easter with a sensationally sweet cupcake treat. From tiny cakes topped with adorable bunnies, chicks, and lambs to cupcakes featuring Cadbury eggs and birds' nests, there's cupcake inspiration for every little bunny!
Read through to find the perfect cupcake recipe for your Easter celebration.
Every Song You've Heard (and Loved) on Big Little Lies
Big Little Lies is killing it (pun intended) in the music department. The first episode alone features seven fantastic songs - including the intro theme - that you'll almost definitely want on all your playlists. We're still in the dark about who's dead and whodunit, but at least we know there's plenty of good music in store! Take a look at what we've heard so far.
Every Shocking, Tumultuous Moment From Prince Charles and Princess Diana's Marriage
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Although season one of Ryan Murphy's Feud is just barely upon us, FX has already renewed the drama for a second season, and it's going to be a doozy. Titled Feud: Charles and Diana, season two will follow the tumultuous marriage of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, who were married from 1981 to 1996. Diana - whose legacy still lives on in her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry - died in a tragic car accident in August 1997 with her partner, Dodi Fayed, whom she began dating after the end of her and Charles's 15-year marriage. Before their divorce, however, their troubled relationship was the subject of plenty of tabloid speculation.
The Early Years
On Feb. 24, 1981, Diana and Charles announced they were engaged after meeting four years earlier while Charles dated Diana's older sister, Lady Sarah McCorquodale. It seemed that their union was off to a shaky start from the get-go. There were reports that Sarah was deeply unhappy that the prince had decided to marry Diana instead, but Diana's biographer Andrew Morton later refuted the claim, saying the sisters remained quite close. On top of that, Charles had a puzzling response to the question of whether or not they were truly in love during a postengagement interview with reporters. "Of course!" Diana responded, before Charles said, "Whatever 'in love' means." Many thought Charles appeared rigid and stuck-up during the segment, clearly not thrilled to be there.
In July of that same year, the two wed in an elaborate ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The event saw more than 600,000 people flooding the streets to get a glimpse of the 20-year-old "People's Princess," who was the first commoner to marry into the British royal family for 300 years. Sadly, a fairy-tale wedding does not equal a fairy-tale ending. After the couple welcomed their first son, Prince William, in 1982 and then Prince Harry two years later, their relationship began to fall apart.
Image Source: Getty / Tom Wargacki
The Affairs
By the early '90s, rumors of infidelity began popping up in tabloids across the world. Charles and Diana went on their last official trip together in October 1991 to Ontario, Canada, accompanied by their sons, and a few months later, Morton's book Diana: Her True Story was released. It was immediately clear that Diana and her family had worked with the author directly, contributing not only family photographs but also deeply personal revelations. Diana opened up about her five suicide attempts (one of which happened during her pregnancy with William, after she suspected Charles was cheating on her) and Charles's longstanding extramarital affair with Camilla Parker Bowles.
On Aug. 23, 1992, "Squidgygate" erupted. The Sun published a front-page article about the contents of a secretly recorded audio tape of a conversation Diana had with childhood friend James Gilbey (whose nickname for her was "Squidgy") on New Year's Eve 1989. Their chat included confessions about how miserable she was with Charles ("He makes my life real torture, I've decided") and about her strained relationship with Queen Elizabeth II. A few months later, British tabloids leaked a tape of a flirty recorded phone conversation between Charles and Camilla that confirmed their affair. Dubbed "Camillagate" by the press, the tapes included statements from Charles like "Oh god. I'll just live inside your trousers or something. It would be much easier!" and a joke about him wanting to be Camilla's "Tampax" (which is why the situation is also referred to as "Tampongate").
By December 1992, the royal family could no longer hide the fact that Diana and Charles's marriage was in shambles. Prime Minister John Major publicly announced the pair's "amicable separation" at the House of Commons, reading off an official statement from the royal family. A year later, Charles was rumored to be having an affair with personal assistant Tiggy Legge-Bourke, and Diana faced down reports of a relationship with former cavalry officer James Hewitt, whom she'd hired as a horseback riding instructor for her, William, and Harry.
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Damage Control
With his public image tarnished by "Camillagate," Prince Charles agreed to an interview with Jonathan Dimbleby in June 1994. He readily admitted that Camilla was his mistress but said they only entered into an extramarital relationship after his marriage to Diana had "irretrievably broken down, us both having tried" in 1986. By January 1995, Camilla had split from husband Andrew Parker Bowles, and in March, their divorce was finalized.
In November 1995, Diana chose to tell her side of things in her first solo interview. While sitting down with the BBC's Martin Bashir, she didn't mince words when asked about Charles and Camilla: "There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded." On top of that (as well as an acknowledgment of her struggle with bulimia), Diana also copped to her own infidelity, which "plunged the monarchy into the greatest crisis since the abdication" (a reference to King Edward VIII's choice to abandon the throne in 1936 so he could marry divorced American socialite Wallis Simpson). She confirmed her five-year romance with James Hewitt - who at that point had released a tell-all book about their relationship called Princess in Love - saying, "Yes, I adored him. Yes, I was in love with him. But I was very let down."
The Divorce
Needless to say, the royal family was not pleased with Diana airing all of their dirty laundry to the public. Not even a month passed after Diana's interview before her press secretary resigned and Queen Elizabeth II sent her and Charles a letter requesting that they divorce immediately, a move unprecedented at the time. On Aug. 28, 1996, Charles and Diana's divorce was finalized. Sadly, the paparazzi's interest in 36-year-old Diana only grew with each scandal, an obsession that eventually led to her fatal car crash in 1997 (the car's driver was attempting to elude photographers in Paris when he crashed the vehicle).
Feud: Charles and Diana is set to air sometime in 2018, so hopefully Ryan Murphy uses this time to make sure they nail every detail.
Every Shocking, Tumultuous Moment From Prince Charles and Princess Diana's Marriage
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Although season one of Ryan Murphy's Feud is just barely upon us, FX has already renewed the drama for a second season, and it's going to be a doozy. Titled Feud: Charles and Diana, season two will follow the tumultuous marriage of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, who were married from 1981 to 1996. Diana - whose legacy still lives on in her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry - died in a tragic car accident in August 1997 with her partner, Dodi Fayed, whom she began dating after the end of her and Charles's 15-year marriage. Before their divorce, however, their troubled relationship was the subject of plenty of tabloid speculation.
The Early Years
On Feb. 24, 1981, Diana and Charles announced they were engaged after meeting four years earlier while Charles dated Diana's older sister, Lady Sarah McCorquodale. It seemed that their union was off to a shaky start from the get-go. There were reports that Sarah was deeply unhappy that the prince had decided to marry Diana instead, but Diana's biographer Andrew Morton later refuted the claim, saying the sisters remained quite close. On top of that, Charles had a puzzling response to the question of whether or not they were truly in love during a postengagement interview with reporters. "Of course!" Diana responded, before Charles said, "Whatever 'in love' means." Many thought Charles appeared rigid and stuck-up during the segment, clearly not thrilled to be there.
In July of that same year, the two wed in an elaborate ceremony at St. Paul's Cathedral in London. The event saw more than 600,000 people flooding the streets to get a glimpse of the 20-year-old "People's Princess," who was the first commoner to marry into the British royal family for 300 years. Sadly, a fairy-tale wedding does not equal a fairy-tale ending. After the couple welcomed their first son, Prince William, in 1982 and then Prince Harry two years later, their relationship began to fall apart.
Image Source: Getty / Tom Wargacki
The Affairs
By the early '90s, rumors of infidelity began popping up in tabloids across the world. Charles and Diana went on their last official trip together in October 1991 to Ontario, Canada, accompanied by their sons, and a few months later, Morton's book Diana: Her True Story was released. It was immediately clear that Diana and her family had worked with the author directly, contributing not only family photographs but also deeply personal revelations. Diana opened up about her five suicide attempts (one of which happened during her pregnancy with William, after she suspected Charles was cheating on her) and Charles's longstanding extramarital affair with Camilla Parker Bowles.
On Aug. 23, 1992, "Squidgygate" erupted. The Sun published a front-page article about the contents of a secretly recorded audio tape of a conversation Diana had with childhood friend James Gilbey (whose nickname for her was "Squidgy") on New Year's Eve 1989. Their chat included confessions about how miserable she was with Charles ("He makes my life real torture, I've decided") and about her strained relationship with Queen Elizabeth II. A few months later, British tabloids leaked a tape of a flirty recorded phone conversation between Charles and Camilla that confirmed their affair. Dubbed "Camillagate" by the press, the tapes included statements from Charles like "Oh god. I'll just live inside your trousers or something. It would be much easier!" and a joke about him wanting to be Camilla's "Tampax" (which is why the situation is also referred to as "Tampongate").
By December 1992, the royal family could no longer hide the fact that Diana and Charles's marriage was in shambles. Prime Minister John Major publicly announced the pair's "amicable separation" at the House of Commons, reading off an official statement from the royal family. A year later, Charles was rumored to be having an affair with personal assistant Tiggy Legge-Bourke, and Diana faced down reports of a relationship with former cavalry officer James Hewitt, whom she'd hired as a horseback riding instructor for her, William, and Harry.
Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein
Damage Control
With his public image tarnished by "Camillagate," Prince Charles agreed to an interview with Jonathan Dimbleby in June 1994. He readily admitted that Camilla was his mistress but said they only entered into an extramarital relationship after his marriage to Diana had "irretrievably broken down, us both having tried" in 1986. By January 1995, Camilla had split from husband Andrew Parker Bowles, and in March, their divorce was finalized.
In November 1995, Diana chose to tell her side of things in her first solo interview. While sitting down with the BBC's Martin Bashir, she didn't mince words when asked about Charles and Camilla: "There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded." On top of that (as well as an acknowledgment of her struggle with bulimia), Diana also copped to her own infidelity, which "plunged the monarchy into the greatest crisis since the abdication" (a reference to King Edward VIII's choice to abandon the throne in 1936 so he could marry divorced American socialite Wallis Simpson). She confirmed her five-year romance with James Hewitt - who at that point had released a tell-all book about their relationship called Princess in Love - saying, "Yes, I adored him. Yes, I was in love with him. But I was very let down."
The Divorce
Needless to say, the royal family was not pleased with Diana airing all of their dirty laundry to the public. Not even a month passed after Diana's interview before her press secretary resigned and Queen Elizabeth II sent her and Charles a letter requesting that they divorce immediately, a move unprecedented at the time. On Aug. 28, 1996, Charles and Diana's divorce was finalized. Sadly, the paparazzi's interest in 36-year-old Diana only grew with each scandal, an obsession that eventually led to her fatal car crash in 1997 (the car's driver was attempting to elude photographers in Paris when he crashed the vehicle).
Feud: Charles and Diana is set to air sometime in 2018, so hopefully Ryan Murphy uses this time to make sure they nail every detail.
If You Love Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You," You Need to Hear It With Classroom Instruments
Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You" has taken the world by storm, so it's only fitting that Sheeran dropped by The Tonight Show on Monday to perform it using only classroom instruments. With help from Jimmy Fallon, The Roots, and a banana-shaped fruit shaker, the gang jumped into the show's music room to belt out the catchy tune. Watch it above now, then check out some fun facts about the track.
Genetic discrimination bill could turn into a showdown between MPs and justice minister
Federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould is inviting provincial and territorial premiers to say whether they feel a proposed law aimed at prohibiting genetic discrimination infringes on their jurisdiction to regulate the insurance industry.
Genetic discrimination bill could turn into a showdown between MPs and justice minister
Federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould is inviting provincial and territorial premiers to say whether they feel a proposed law aimed at prohibiting genetic discrimination infringes on their jurisdiction to regulate the insurance industry.
Whoa - This Mesmerizing 1-Minute Face Painting Video Will Make You Feel Reborn
Makeup artists are known to get creative when it comes to their beauty looks, but an artist named Emma Allen took her face painting skills to the next level with this "rebirth" look. In a 1-minute clip uploaded to YouTube, Emma transforms her youthful skin into that of a wrinkled older woman . . . and then into a corpse. It doesn't stop there, though. Emma's metamorphosis continues as she becomes one with the earth by turning her face into colorful flowers and then into stars from outer space.
Finally, the makeup artist transforms herself into the embryo of a cheetah, finishing with a feline face. "An animated self-portrait exploring the idea of rebirth and illustrating the transfer of energy from one incarnation to another," she wrote in the description bar of the viral clip. Emma's stunning transformation currently has over 438,000 views at press time. Watch the video above to see it for yourself.
No, You're Not Dreaming; You Can Wake Up to These Unicorn Pancakes!
It seems like the internet is on a never-ending quest to transform our meals into unicorn-themed, magical munchies. Everything from rainbow hot chocolate to mythically adorned unicorn doughnuts has been making its way into our Instagram feeds. To our delight, we now have a miraculous breakfast option: unicorn pancakes.
If you're dying to re-create these for yourself, we suggest whipping up some Funfetti pancakes, getting out your food dye, and following our tips to create an adorable edible unicorn horn to complete your special breakfast. People are adding their own spins to the pancakes with all the fun toppings you could think of, like cotton candy, Lucky Charms, marshmallows, and more.
Read on to see all of the colorful and sweet varieties.
My Mom Was Latina, My Dad Isn't - 10 Annoying Comments I'm Tired of Hearing
As a multiracial woman with a Peruvian-born mom and a white American dad, I can say life can be a little bit complicated. Growing up, it definitely wasn't the "cool" thing to be multiracial, especially in small-town Oregon where I spent my high school years, so I didn't really start to embrace the Peruvian part of my identity until I got to college. And while I have always taken pride in being Latina - it certainly has come with some built-in perks, like being fluent in Spanish by preschool - the whole thing comes with its fair share of eye-roll-worthy moments. Cue that time customers at my high-school waitressing job assumed I didn't speak English because of the way I looked.
If this story sounds familiar, chances are this roundup of other annoying comments and struggles will be too. Keep scrolling for the most frustrating moments I've faced.
How Emma Stone Addressed the Best Picture Kerfuffle Backstage at the Oscars
"Did you guys see that?" That was the first thing Emma Stone said when she walked into the press room backstage at Sunday night's Oscars. Stone, of course, was supposed to be answering questions about her best actress win, but when La La Land was mistakenly announced as the best picture winner instead of Moonlight, she naturally felt compelled to address the controversy. "I f*cking love Moonlight," she said as an aside. "God, I love Moonlight so much; I'm so excited for Moonlight. Of course, it was amazing to hear La La Land; we're so excited for Moonlight - it's one of the best movies ever. . . . I also was holding my best actress in a leading role card that entire time. So whatever story - I don't mean to start stuff - but whatever story that was, I had that card. I'm not sure what happened." The kerfuffle will go down as one of the craziest moments in Oscars history.
In the days following the incident, new details emerged that shed light on what happened. Of course, we can watch the video and scour the pictures over and over in an attempt to find answers. But most of the important information came in the form of an official apology from the accounting firm that partners with the Oscars every year and tabulates the votes, PricewaterhouseCoopers. The statement describes how a duplicate best actress envelope was mistakenly handed to Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty by one of the firm's accountants. So, this explains why Emma was able to hold on to her winning card the whole time. But hey, we're just glad to know the La La Land actress has our backs and was willing to expose any and all conspiracies. Thanks, girl.
The Force Is Strong With the Newest Lip Smacker Tsum Tsum Balms
If you haven't already been won over by the adorable Lip Smacker Tsum Tsum balms, then prepare for them to rock your world. The company has just announced that a Star Wars line of the irresistible lip treats will be hitting shelves this Spring.
The new flavors are just as sweet as the packaging (which is shaped like your favorite characters from both light and dark sides of the Force). R2-D2 has a fruity R2-D Licious Blueberry scent and the stormtrooper balm's punny name and flavor is Ice Cream Clone. Yoda has been bestowed with a refreshing Jedi Master Mint aroma and Darth Vader is - of course - Darth Chocolate.
Unfortunately, you'll have to wait until April to get your hands on these four new flavors at your local drugstore, but you can sign up for the Lip Smacker Smoochie Club for the opportunity to purchase them early on Lip Smacker's website on March 20. The power of the Force compels you!
Ahead, see photos of the interstellar new launch.
Here's What Rihanna Eats, According to Her Personal Chef
Have you ever wondered what pop stars eat and who actually cooks for them? Bon Appétit recently interviewed Debbie Solomon, personal chef of Rihanna, and asked her everything from how she landed the job to the diverse foods she makes for the pop star. The Jamaican-born chef cooks for the singer on tour, at home, for parties, and for everything in between. Chef Solomon said Rihanna is "a moody eater" and craves specific foods every day, so she doesn't plan weekly menus and cooks on the fly. Rihanna eats "every protein that you can think of" along with "vegetables, rice, and pasta." Though you'd think Rihanna might eat rabbit food, the dishes Solomon has prepared for her look otherwise! "There shouldn't be shame in eating food . . . I won't waste my calories on bullsh*t," Solomon told Bon Appétit. Read the full, intriguing interview, and take a look at these mouthwatering dishes Solomon has prepared for Rihanna!
7 Ways to Encourage Girls to Go STEM
There's a big disparity when it comes to men versus women in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) professions. As a techie since childhood, I've always been fascinated with STEM and even earned my networking certificates before graduating high school! Coding at an early age is what got me motivated to get into a STEM profession. It's also why in college I went on to earn my Bachelor's of Science degree in information technology new media from Rochester Institute of Technology.
My interest in STEM has shaped my exciting career as a tech expert and global tech consultant, and part of my personal mission is to get more girls and young women interested in STEM careers. So in honor of National Engineers Week (Feb. 19-25), let's take a look at some tools that should really get a gold star for encouraging and increasing the number of girls and women to go into STEM fields.
This Is How All Your Favorite Chefs Cook Steak
Steak is one of those things that intimidates a lot of people but really shouldn't. If you've ever struggled with cooking the perfect steak, this list of tips should help. We've turned to some of our favorite Food Network personalities and more celebrity chefs for their steakhouse-worthy cooking methods.
Alton Brown: Pan-Seared and Oven-Baked
For pan-seared rib eyes, Alton Brown recommends two key things: bring the steak to room temperature (it cooks quicker this way), and heat a cast-iron skillet in the oven while the oven heats to 500 degrees. He doesn't use the oven until the steaks have been seared first, but heating up the skillet before putting it on the stove helps get the process started and ensure a completely heated-through pan.
Giada De Laurentiis: Add Italian Flavors
Giada's Tuscan rib-eye steak recipe proves everything is better with Italian flair. If you're into rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon (who isn't?), this is the best way to cook your steak.
Ree Drummond: Butter-Rubbed Grill Pan
The Pioneer Woman's first blog post to go viral was titled "How to Cook a Steak," and it's easy to see why. Her "never-fail arsenal" is just three ingredients: "Lawry's Seasoned Salt, McCormick Lemon Pepper, and a nice stick of regular (salted) butter." Ree advises coating a hot grill pan in butter before searing the steaks. In the post, she promises, "If you cook it for your friends, they'll never invite you over to their house for dinner again. You will have permanently raised the bar."
Gordon Ramsay: Baste With Butter
It's no surprise that Gordon Ramsay's tip for steak is the same as his tip for burgers: baste with butter. Besides the fact that fat makes everything taste better, Gordon explains that coating steak with melted butter "gives it a nice nutty brown finish."
Ina Garten: Steakhouse-Style Filet Mignon
Leave it to The Barefoot Contessa to school us in making a restaurant-worthy dish at home. If you're feeling fancy and opt for filet mignon, you'll want to use a generous coating of fleur de sel and coarsely cracked black peppercorns to achieve a perfect crust. If you follow her recipe to a T, you'll be the one saying, "How easy is that?"
Chrissy Teigen: Soak in a Garlicky Marinade
Chrissy Teigen admits in her cookbook, Cravings, that she's normally a traditionalist when it comes to steak (page 206), but her husband John Legend's "best marinade in existence" changed her mind. A lot goes into it - soy sauce and garlic, for starters - and after marinating for eight hours, you're on your way to juicy, flavor-packed steak. "I would probably still go simple if I was staring at the most beautiful piece of beef I've ever seen, but use this tangy marinade on a nice, solid rib eye, and I promise you, it will be hard for you to have it any other way," she wrote.
Tom Colicchio: Grill on Each Side
Top Chef's Tom Colicchio recommends turning the steak a total of six times while it's on the grill (grill it for three to four minutes on each side, including the edges). He also recognizes that quality is more important than quantity when it comes to steak. In an interview with POPSUGAR, he said, "start with buying the perfect steak - you can't buy a lousy piece of meat and make it great."
Bobby Flay: Perfectly Grilled
Bobby Flay, master of the grill, doesn't bother with anything complicated for his perfectly grilled steak recipe. All you need is steak, oil, and salt and pepper - and Bobby always recommends oiling the meat itself, not the grill or pan.
I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant
I had to have a friend tell me I was pregnant over dinner.
There I was, chomping down on a taco at a Mexican restaurant, annoyed that they didn't serve margaritas, while lamenting my inability to get pregnant when she gave me a curious look.
"Kate, you are pregnant," she said, matter-of-factly.
I laughed it off. I had just finished telling her all the issues I'd been having with my body since going off my birth control pill:
I wasn't getting my period.
Yes, it's a telltale sign of pregnancy when you're "late," but mine didn't even show up. When I stopped taking birth control at the end of January after more than a decade of daily dosages, my body went through a roller-coaster recovery, one I assumed was still in progress. It was late March, and I still hadn't gotten a real, natural period. I had a few friends who waited months, one more than a year, to get their periods postpill, so I'd just assumed my menstrual cycle hadn't kick-started yet, either.
I'd put on weight.
I was definitely feeling a bit squidgy lately, but I'd attributed it to what most breathing adults blame - Winter. I let myself really enjoy the holidays, and when I noticed that those extra pounds hadn't shed off like they usually did by this point, I figured it was just my youthful metabolism closing up shop for good now that I'd turned 30.
I was exhausted.
All I wanted to do was nothing. The previous weekend was spent primarily on the couch, binge-watching Netflix in between spontaneous naps. One of the days, I never even got out of my pajamas. I certainly noticed that I was more lethargic than usual, but I blamed my slow-but-steady weight gain and, again, Winter. (It really is the ultimate scapegoat for being healthy, isn't it?)
My boobs were sore.
OK, I was probably in some form of denial about this one. Still, I'm not completely oblivious. I just attributed the symptom to something else. Tender breasts - along with irregular periods, weight gain, and lethargy - are typical side effects of getting off the pill.
No one was getting any.
Occasionally, some of these symptoms - including one day when I seemed to have superhuman abilities to smell the garbage in the trash chute down the hall of our apartment building (another shared symptom of going off the pill and pregnancy!) - would spur me to ask my husband if I might be pregnant. And then we'd have a good laugh. We'd hardly had any sex to speak of during this time due to crazy work schedules, my aforementioned laziness, and my crummy body image thanks to my aforementioned weight gain. Plus, although we had decided months ago to start trying to have a baby, we were waiting for me to get that elusive period before we really got down to business.
I wasn't nauseated.
I was certain I couldn't possibly have conceived because I hadn't had a single bout of morning sickness. Of course, it turns out it's actually more likely that pregnant women never experience any nausea - only 25 percent of women do.
So, there I was brushing off my friend's outlandish statement that I was, without a doubt, pregnant. I couldn't possibly be and not know it.
Turns out, I was. And I didn't.
The minute I got home from dinner, I took a pregnancy test, and it was positive. After my husband, this friend was the first person who heard the good news, though it wasn't exactly news to her.
Since then, when joking about the circumstances that led me to discovering I was having a baby, many people ask how I could have possibly not known. Sore boobs and weight gain?! Come on! It's obvious!
I can chalk some of it up to the fact that I was still nervous about getting pregnant, and maybe subconsciously, I blamed some of the more telling signs on the pill. But, the bigger issue was that I was more certain that something was wrong with my body than I was with the idea that it could be very much right, going through the normal, natural first stage of pregnancy.
Because I'd known people, this friend included, who'd had issues getting pregnant, I had spent the last few years with a sneaking suspicion that I could very well be infertile. I had absolutely no basis for it - other than the innumerable articles I'd read about age-related risk factors and the countless stories I'd hear of women struggling through IVF treatments - but it was nonetheless a genuine concern. Even now, I have friends who reveal to me that they're nervous they'll have trouble, including one who asked, "I spent my whole life trying not to get pregnant, but what if I never can?!" It was a thought I'd had so many times in recent years.
The truth is, women of a certain age and with a certain ticking clock are too inundated with all the noise of infertility when, according to the CDC, 96 percent of married women are blissfully fertile. Yes, conception issues are a possibility for women, and those issues become more likely with each passing year, but when that's all someone hears, they might begin to think that there's no chance they'll have an easy time of it.
Well, I clearly did. And very likely so will you.
The Vinyasa Class That Made Me Stop Hating Vinyasa
Before finding Y7, I was in a committed relationship with Hatha yoga. In high school, I would skip my free period to catch a noon class, and in college, I would spend a good amount of my holiday breaks on my mat. When I first moved to New York, I knew that finding a yoga studio I loved would help this new city feel like home. I never thought that would be a Vinyasa flow studio fueled by hip-hop music.
I used to hate Vinyasa yoga. After trying it a few times, I had written it off as "not for me" because I found it too easy for my mind to wander off my mat while moving through repetitive poses. But when my co-worker mentioned that she was trying the class that I hadn't stopped talking about since I saw a video of 50 Cent raving about it, I agreed to meet up with her at the noon session the next day.
I'd read online that Y7 starts exactly on time and does not allow late entrance, so I tried my best to be early. But me, being the person I am, made it to class just as they were giving the one-minute warning and rolled out my newly purchased yoga mat in front of the "We Flow Hard" mural in the back of the room.
The instructor shut the door and began to explain the Y7 process as 2Chainz fell into the background. First, she led us through the Sun Salutation A sequence that would become the foundation for everything that followed in the next 60 minutes. She explained each pose in depth, emphasizing alignment and offering modifications for those days when we need to pull back instead of push harder. When we landed back in a Downward Facing Dog, we started setting up the first sequence.
Every instructor is different, but every We Flow Hard Vinyasa class goes through the same pattern in an infrared-heated room (around 80-90 degrees) lit only by candlelight. You go through three different sequences that get more complex as you go, one last push of effort, and a well-deserved Savasana at the end. The class goes through each of the three sequences three times on each side of the body.
The beginning of each sequence starts with the instructor moving you through the poses with a focus on alignment, the second round speeds up the pace linking each pose by a single breath, and the third time the instructor leaves it up to you to set your inner teacher free. Add what you need for your practice, and take out what you don't. The classes are fueled by the hip-hop music we know and love, and while that may not seem relaxing, I always leave class sweaty and totally zen.
Y7 has taught me so much about my practice. Now I know that I can still focus on my Ujjayi pranayama breath while Big Sean raps about "all of that ass." Sometimes I even find myself singing along just to make it through that last sequence. I used to think Vinyasa was not for me, but it was really just a challenge I had to face. I had to become comfortable knowing what comes next in the sequence and still holding that plank just as strong the first time in class as I will the last.
Whether you're obsessed with Vinyasa or you just love jamming out to Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, and more, I'd highly recommend giving Y7 a try. The We Flow Hard Vinyasa class is suitable for all levels, and there are currently five locations in New York and one in Los Angeles too! At the very least, you'll break a sweat, and maybe you'll even discover your next favorite song.
The Vinyasa Class That Made Me Stop Hating Vinyasa
Before finding Y7, I was in a committed relationship with Hatha yoga. In high school, I would skip my free period to catch a noon class, and in college, I would spend a good amount of my holiday breaks on my mat. When I first moved to New York, I knew that finding a yoga studio I loved would help this new city feel like home. I never thought that would be a Vinyasa flow studio fueled by hip-hop music.
I used to hate Vinyasa yoga. After trying it a few times, I had written it off as "not for me" because I found it too easy for my mind to wander off my mat while moving through repetitive poses. But when my co-worker mentioned that she was trying the class that I hadn't stopped talking about since I saw a video of 50 Cent raving about it, I agreed to meet up with her at the noon session the next day.
I'd read online that Y7 starts exactly on time and does not allow late entrance, so I tried my best to be early. But me, being the person I am, made it to class just as they were giving the one-minute warning and rolled out my newly purchased yoga mat in front of the "We Flow Hard" mural in the back of the room.
The instructor shut the door and began to explain the Y7 process as 2Chainz fell into the background. First, she led us through the Sun Salutation A sequence that would become the foundation for everything that followed in the next 60 minutes. She explained each pose in depth, emphasizing alignment and offering modifications for those days when we need to pull back instead of push harder. When we landed back in a Downward Facing Dog, we started setting up the first sequence.
Every instructor is different, but every We Flow Hard Vinyasa class goes through the same pattern in an infrared-heated room (around 80-90 degrees) lit only by candlelight. You go through three different sequences that get more complex as you go, one last push of effort, and a well-deserved Savasana at the end. The class goes through each of the three sequences three times on each side of the body.
The beginning of each sequence starts with the instructor moving you through the poses with a focus on alignment, the second round speeds up the pace linking each pose by a single breath, and the third time the instructor leaves it up to you to set your inner teacher free. Add what you need for your practice, and take out what you don't. The classes are fueled by the hip-hop music we know and love, and while that may not seem relaxing, I always leave class sweaty and totally zen.
Y7 has taught me so much about my practice. Now I know that I can still focus on my Ujjayi pranayama breath while Big Sean raps about "all of that ass." Sometimes I even find myself singing along just to make it through that last sequence. I used to think Vinyasa was not for me, but it was really just a challenge I had to face. I had to become comfortable knowing what comes next in the sequence and still holding that plank just as strong the first time in class as I will the last.
Whether you're obsessed with Vinyasa or you just love jamming out to Kanye West, Chance the Rapper, and more, I'd highly recommend giving Y7 a try. The We Flow Hard Vinyasa class is suitable for all levels, and there are currently five locations in New York and one in Los Angeles too! At the very least, you'll break a sweat, and maybe you'll even discover your next favorite song.
SJP Just Pulled the Style Move We Always See From Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham's known for wearing her collections before they're shown on the runway. And it appears Sarah Jessica Parker pulled the exact same move. The star test drove her new line of handbags by sporting them all over the city during Fashion Week, and likely no one noticed. That's because the collection, The Seven Essentials, only recently became available to shop via preorder.
The line features seven styles in wearable shades like black and beige with brass hardware, while prices range from $395 to $695. The bags, in a sense, are meant for power women who are always on the go. They match with all your outfits - as evidenced by SJP - and fit the necessities every busy woman needs. Though they're only available on Bloomingdale's website for now, they'll be rolling out to shoppers on Amazon and Zappos, too. Read on to see all the styles and make sure to have your credit card on hand. You have some shopping to do.
6 Easy Tips to Keep Your Phone From Overheating
Our phones are basically an additional appendage in our lives, and yes, we'll admit it - we feel feel naked without them. As we get closer to Spring break and Summer, all we want to do is record and share every special moment and adventure on our phones. One side effect from all that time in the sun? Overheating! Our little "friends" are computers and need to be kept at an optimal temperature to function properly. Worst yet, overheating can be a serious and costly problem. Sure, you might always remember to keep it away from the water, but you're probably overlooking protecting your phone from overheating. To prevent this, make sure to follow these rules, many from Asurion, an insurance and warranty company.
- Take a break: Say goodbye to giving out "likes" for a bit and let it rest. This will allow it to cool down as the internal lights won't be active.
- Keep it in the shade: Don't let it sit in the sunlight, particularly on an especially hot day. Smartphones are susceptible to weather and will automatically turn off once the internal temperature reaches a certain point (but don't let it get to that point!)
- Close your gaming apps: Open gaming apps require more battery power, and the harder it works, the more likely it is to overheat. Ever hear your computer do a whirring sound? That's the internal fan trying to cool the computer down. A phone is no different.
- Take off the case: A phone case can sometimes hold in heat, so make sure to take it off in sunny weather or warm temperatures. Or buy a case designed to dissipate heat.
- Turn down your brightness: Similarly to the affect the open apps have, the higher the brightness of the phone, the more battery it will need and use.
- Buy a glare screen: The glare screen will allow you to better see your phone in the sun so you won't be tempted to up the brightness.
8 Reasons You Should Start Shipping Jughead and Betty on Riverdale
We are quickly growing more and more obsessed with The CW's Riverdale. We love the music and juicy drama, but we can't get enough of all the romances. While we originally liked Betty (Lili Reinhart) with heartthrob Archie (KJ Apa), we're slowly starting to realize that Jughead (Cole Sprouse) is a far better match. Even though he was confirmed to be asexual in the comic books, we can't help but swoon over Sprouse and Reinhart's amazing onscreen chemistry - and we're not the only ones shipping these two either! The internet has already come up with a couple name: Bughead.
Pizza Hut Makes It Dangerously Easy to Order With Its Pie Top Sneakers
Pizza Hut has made ordering pizza dangerously easy with its newest innovation, Pie Tops. Yes, the punny shoes are actual high-top sneakers that allow you to order pizza by pressing a button with Pizza Hut's logo directly on your shoe. The only catch is the shoes aren't for sale, because availability is limited. Only 64 pairs of the shoe have been created - in correlation with the NCAA tournament - and each one is made from scratch, according to a Pizza Hut spokesperson. Get a glimpse of how the high-tech shoes work in Pizza Hut's video with NBA star Grant Hill, which shows how they're connected to Bluetooth (genius!).
The button connects the actual Pie Tops shoes to your phone and the Pie Tops app, allowing the user to press the button and instantly submit a pizza order. While you might not be able to wear the shoes yourself, Pizza Hut says, "These special-edition shoes are designed as a creative expression of how easy it now is to get a Pizza Hut Pizza," like its apps, mobile site, or Amazon Alexa. We don't know about you, but we plan on using these magical powers to get a grilled cheese stuffed crust pizza delivered to us as soon as possible.
Here Are the Biggest Trends Pet Parents Should Know For 2017
From Corgi videos to dog yoga and ALL of the memes, 2016 was filled with many unforgettable dog moments. But now that dogs doing the mannequin challenge is so last year, what can we expect to be hot for pet parents in 2017? Rover.com, the nation's largest network of pet sitters and dog walkers, shared a few predictions.
According to Rover's trend spotters and data collected from hundreds of thousands of pet parents, hypoallergenic breeds, cannabis-infused treats, and organized dog sports will be on the rise this year - and we see they are already trending these past two months!
This year, they also expect that we'll be treating our pets more like we treat ourselves. That means all-natural products, smart technology, and food trends like coconut and Paleo diets will be in high demand for pets, too.
One thing is for sure: our dogs are part of the family, and it shows. From pampering our pets with organic foods and toys to decking them out with the latest tech, we want our dogs to live their best lives.
Rescue Dogs Like This One Are the Best Companions You Could Ever Find
The following post was originally featured on Finding Silver Pennies and written by Danielle Driscoll, who is part of POPSUGAR Collective Living.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Lisette Mejia
"Whoever declared that love at first sight doesn't exist has never witnessed the purity of a puppy or looked deep into a puppy's eyes. If they did, their lives would change considerably."
― Elizabeth Parker, Paw Prints in the Sand
As I sit in the kitchen and write, I have the most beautiful puppy snuggled in my lap. If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook then you probably already saw this beautiful face. We are head over heels for the newest addition to the Driscoll family. I'm so excited for you all to meet Max!
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
If you've read the blog for some time then you know how much we love rescue dogs and how special our Poppy is. We rescued her 6 years ago from Sterling Animal Shelter. We adopted her when the boys were young, Conor was one and I just felt we needed another baby around.
For some time, we've wanted to adopt another dog. Two years ago we went to see a senior dog at Scituate Animal Shelter, a black lab. Poppy is such a great dog and gets along with all dogs, except black labs, we didn't know this at the time but she did not like that dog and she growls every time she sees a black lab. Strange as she's black lab / flat coat mix. Anyway, deep in my heart I craved another dog for our home.
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
I mentioned something to a friend who fosters and told her that Poppy seems to like "little dogs". We weren't particular of the breed or anything. Just thought it would be nice for Poppy to have a companion. Sometimes she seems lonely or antisocial and she loves meeting new dogs in the harbor.
A few weeks ago my friend sent me an email. "I have puppies. Not sure if you're still looking but come over…"
We went over. Max was one of the puppies. He was approximately three weeks old and so tiny! So tiny, in fact, I was scared to hold him. I thought I might break him. We got to play with his mom and brothers and sisters. They were all so cute and so tiny.
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
I think I should rewind and tell you how Max got to be in my friend's care. Someone abandoned the mother with her 5 puppies on the side of a road. Isn't that heartbreaking? I can't comprehend how anyone could leave innocent puppies and a mama who had just given birth on a busy road and just drive away. Thankfully there are so many good and kind people. A good samaritan contacted Rescue Dogs Rock NYC, a non profit New York based rescue. Maggie and her tiny puppies were fostered in my friend's home.
After visiting Max and the other puppies a few times, we felt this was the right time to apply and see if maybe one would be right for our family. Maggie has such a lovely disposition (but was already adopted) so we thought we'd try for one of her puppies. We left it up to Rescue Dogs Rock and said we'd be happy with any if they thought our home would be a good fit.
The agency was wonderful and very thorough. We had an interview, a home visit and then I got to go with my friend when they had their first immunizations.
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
Maggie is a terrier mix and we don't know what Max's dad was but think it may be Jack Russell.
We brought Max home on Sunday night.
So everything is so new.
I'm enjoying seeing life though a new set of eyes, through 8 week old puppy eyes. As you can imagine he's into everything.
His ears perk up when he hears birds. Each leaf and plant is something to be explored and I'm constantly chasing after him to get leaves out of his mouth.
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
His body is very long and his legs are so short. When he wags his tail he almost falls over. We tried to walk him but we didn't get very far.
He doesn't like the sound of large trucks and likes hiding under the island in the kitchen.
The boys are smitten with their puppy and have tried hard to help look after him but also help with chores around the house.
I'm currently training him so I'm spending most of my time in the kitchen or out in the yard. He cries if I leave the kitchen and he still isn't used the the crate. We're giving him loads of love and cuddles. He's our main priority right now. DIYs and house projects can wait until we're in more of a routine.
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
Poppy has been such a wonderful big sister. She loves him and he loves her. It is so fun just to watch them play outside. Both have tired each other out today and both are sleeping….
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
I love him so much and feel so lucky to have him in our lives. I plan on sharing his life with you and hope to give an update each week on his progress.
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
I hope you guys enjoyed meeting the newest Driscoll, Max.
We're firm believers in rescuing animals and love this quote:
"Shelter dogs aren't broken…"
"Shelter dogs aren't broken, they've simply experienced more life than other dogs. If they were human, we would call them wise. They would be the ones with tales to tell and stories to write, the ones dealt a bad hand who responded with courage. Don't pity a shelter dog. Adopt one. And be proud to have their greatness by your side."
-dogsrule.com
If you're interested in bringing a dog home. I urge you to contact your local shelter or if you're on the east coast check out Rescue Dogs Rock NYC – click here for their site and here for Facebook. They are doing great things for rescue dogs and rescue families.
Image Source: Finding Silver Pennies
23 Vegetarian Recipes That Are the Answer to Your Meatless Prayers
Vegetarians, we feel your pain. Staples we grew up with like arroz con pollo, ropa vieja, and beef stew all have one thing in common: meat.
But that doesn't mean there aren't delicious veggie-friendly Latin dishes out there. In fact, with the popularity of events like #MeatlessMonday (and the Lenten season being meat-free), they're in high demand.
To give everyone, carnivores and vegetarians alike, some fresh inspiration, we rounded up 20+ scrumptious recipes to try out any day of the week.
- Additional reporting by Alessandra Foresto
Holy Sh*t, This Bachelor Parody For Moms Is Absolutely Genius
You guys. If you love The Bachelor (and also kind of hate it) like me, then you are about to lose it over this hilarious parody for moms. In the genius video, one mom is going on a journey of self-discovery and faith - and all that other BS the bachelors and bachelorettes go through - in her search to find the perfect sitter on The Babysitter.
From big surprise trips to the park to very important test drives in her minivan, this mom is taking her prospects with her along for the wildest ride - should she fail, she'll be all alone . . . with her kids. Who will get the final sippy cup? Watch the hysterical parody to get a preview.
And be sure to share with all of your Bachelor-loving friends . . . or your mom friends who just can't find one freakin' babysitter who won't cancel last-minute like Sarah M.
Turns Out, the Queen Is Technically a Binge-Drinker
We've gotten to learn quite a lot about Queen Elizabeth II over the course of her 90 years, but this latest fact is especially fascinating to us. According to Esquire UK, the monarch is a pretty impressive day drinker, so much so that by UK government standards she's technically a binge-drinker (same, to be honest).
She gets started right before lunch, enjoying a gin and Dubonnet (a wine-based liqueur) with lemon and lots of ice, then a glass of wine with her meal. A few hours later, she has a dry martini, followed by a glass of Champagne in the evening (there are eight different Champagne producers at the palace including Bollinger, Krug, Lanson, and Pol Roger, which was also served at William and Kate's wedding).
Now, size-wise, Elizabeth's intake is the equivalent of six drinks per day and 42 drinks per week (assuming she doesn't go crazy on the weekends), though the Queen's government recommends 14 drinks a week as a healthy measure of alcohol consumption. What can she say? She has a monarchy to run.
8 Things You Never Knew About Trader Joe's, Straight From a Former Employee
I spoke to a former employee who worked at Trader Joe's for a year, and he gave me the inside scoop on how the company is run, the little-known details of the return policy, and what the point of those somewhat-annoying bells is. Spoiler alert: there's no real dirt (I tried!), but what I got was interesting, behind-the-scenes intel that made me an even bigger fan of the store.
There's a reason the customer service is so good.
Trader Joe's strategy in providing a quality customer-service experience is simple: overstaff. "They totally overstaff so that you don't feel like your stocking duties or your register duties trump interacting with customers - they encourage you to be nice to customers." That's why you can almost always find someone in a Hawaiian t-shirt or crew-member uniform walking around and waiting to help you find anything.
The employees try all the new products so they know what to tell customers.
"Each Trader Joe's has a break room, and they have one person who's in charge of cooking new stuff that the store gets and making it available for the entire staff who comes through the store that day to try it. They want you to try all the products so you can have an opinion so that when you recommend stuff to people, it's not baseless."
The pay is REALLY good.
This guy started out at Trader Joe's making $12/hour, which was above the state's minimum wage. You not only start out making a good amount, but it gets even better quickly. After three months of working more than 30 hours a week, you get health insurance and a 401K. You'll also likely get a raise once or twice a year. A friend of this employee worked at Trader Joe's for over five years and made $21/hour - that's an annual salary of $42K.
They donate all unsold food.
"Trader Joe's donates a ton of food. It's called 'spoils,' which just means it's not in perfect shape. There's nothing wrong with eating a lime with a couple brown spots, but if you wouldn't buy it and be excited about buying it, then it gets put with spoils and typically gets donated. They donate flowers, produce - everything - to local organizations."
There's a method behind the bell ringing.
You've sometimes noticed employees ringing bells while you're checking out, right? There's a method to the madness, and it's sort of like the store's secret language for various customer-service needs. "One bell means everyone to your register, which means the lines are getting too long and they need everyone at a register. Two bells means you need an employee to come over and help with something. For example, let's say the bag of spinach you bought is partially opened or looks bad; you ring two bells and an employee will come over and grab a new one for you. Three bells means a manager needs to come over."
Every store has an in-house artist.
"Literally all of the signage around the store is custom-made by two or three artists who hang out in the back and almost exclusively do that, and register work every once in a while." That's why every store has location-based art throughout the store - pretty cool, right?
You can return ANYTHING.
Seriously, you could open a bag of popcorn, try it, and bring it back if you didn't like it - for a full refund. "You see that a lot. You get people who come back and say, 'Hey, I tried it, but I didn't really like it.'" Excuse me while I go try every single thing in the snack aisle.
They strive to create an experience that's beyond grocery shopping.
"They really push this whole, 'we don't want you to feel like you're just grocery shopping' thing. They want it to be an experience - something that pulls you out of the monotony of your everyday life."
The 1 Thing You Should Never Put on a Sandwich, According to the Sandwich King Himself
Food Network chef and sandwich king Jeff Mauro spilled his sandwich dos and don'ts. Keep reading to learn his best advice.
POPSUGAR: What's the ultimate breakfast sandwich?
Jeff Mauro: Perfectly griddled sausage patty, everything bagel, veggie cream cheese, and pickled jalapeños, of course.
PS: What's the worst thing anyone could put on a sandwich?
JM: Mealy tomatoes.
PS: What's the best sandwich bread ever?
JM: The answer is NONE. Each sandwich has at least one appropriate bread to act as the vehicle.
PS: Does your son eat what you cook? How do you get him to eat vegetables?
JM: Kind of. He always eats the protein we make, and starch (usually sweet potatoes) and veggies. He's still not eating salads or asparagus, but we've always fed him well-seasoned and well-balanced food. I guess the trick is, and mind you, I only have one kid, to really not give [kids] a choice. They have to at least taste everything you make.
PS: What's your ultimate Father's Day meal?
JM: My ideal Father's Day meal is a big grilled beef tenderloin. Pair that with tons of mushrooms, something cheesy, and lots of Mark West wine.
PS: What's the most fun thing about being a chef who is a dad?
JM: Taking pride in the fact that my boy knows and respects good food and where it comes from and what it takes to make it. Now with my restaurant Pork & Mindy's in Chicago, he can come hang out with me on the weekends and see food from that end of the business. Plus, I'm proud that my boy can crack an egg like a champ.
Turns Out, the Queen Is Technically a Binge-Drinker
We've gotten to learn quite a lot about Queen Elizabeth II over the course of her 90 years, but this latest fact is especially fascinating to us. According to Esquire UK, the monarch is a pretty impressive day drinker, so much so that by UK government standards she's technically a binge-drinker (same, to be honest).
She gets started right before lunch, enjoying a gin and Dubonnet (a wine-based liqueur) with lemon and lots of ice, then a glass of wine with her meal. A few hours later, she has a dry martini, followed by a glass of Champagne in the evening (there are eight different Champagne producers at the palace including Bollinger, Krug, Lanson, and Pol Roger, which was also served at William and Kate's wedding).
Now, size-wise, Elizabeth's intake is the equivalent of six drinks per day and 42 drinks per week (assuming she doesn't go crazy on the weekends), though the Queen's government recommends 14 drinks a week as a healthy measure of alcohol consumption. What can she say? She has a monarchy to run.
Giving Up and Gaining Health: Benefits of Lent
As a Catholic, Lenten fasting has been a cornerstone of my springtime for as long as I can remember. When I was eight or nine, I remember I tried to give up salt. I was a weird kid. I had decided at the time that my diet (i.e., chicken nugget schedule) was too high in sodium, and I would avoid adding salt to my foods (I was unsuccessful, but it was cute that I tried). Other years I focused on more abstract goals, but more often than not, my sacrifices have been in the form of unhealthy foods, many of which have been vices . . . cough, pizza.
Scrolling through some Facebook comments on our own post, Unhealthy Foods to Give Up For Lent, made me think a little harder about the purpose of Lent, and why we do what we do. There's some truth in those comments. Lent is not a diet. Lent is about spiritual - and physical - sacrifice. Some practicing Catholics may feel upset by the sanitization of a holy period: the intent of this time is to recognize Christ's sacrifice, draw closer to God, and prepare for Easter - not to shed pounds. While I obviously can't speak on behalf of the Church, I can speak from my experience. I'll break down my thoughts on the subject of Lenten penance and fasting, in terms of dieting and health.
Lent, for me, has always been a time of fresh starts, of going back to basics, and of discipline - all of which reminds me to look inward. This time of spiritual focus allows us to create better habits that we can take with us far beyond these 40 days - and oftentimes it has a wonderful impact on our physical health. I think so many of these principles transcend religion and can be applied to anyone, especially someone on their health journey.
A great point one of my favorite authors made about fasting, and the sacrifice of food was this: often, we're letting our bodies control our mind and spirit, when it should be the other way around. Our bodies, our cravings, even fatigue or soreness - they all dictate how we think and act. How much or little we eat, the types of foods we eat, how much or little we exercise . . . it's all based on what our bodies are telling us, rather than what our minds really want. Do we really want that cheeseburger (sometimes yes)? Or would our bodies be A-okay with something leaner and lighter, with more nutrients?
Fasting, in any form, regardless of season or religion, allows you to regain that control over your body, and tell your body who's boss! Regaining this control and discipline allows us to be the best version of ourselves.
Caring for yourself and your health is a way of expressing gratitude for the gift that you've been given - the gift of your body. Perhaps you've been in a dark place because of poor eating habits, or a total lack of fitness. This is your time to turn inward (if you're Catholic, you know this means turning to Jesus!), focus on discipline, make sacrifices, and turn your life around. Catholic or not, all of us want to be the best we can be, physically, emotionally, and spiritually - and Lent is the perfect time to start.
PS, in case you're wondering, I gave up sweets - one of my vices - this year . . . for more reasons than just dietary ones!
The Calories You'll Save Giving Up These 10 Foods For Lent
After all the gluttonous Mardi Gras celebrations comes Lent, the Catholic season of penance that starts on Ash Wednesday. Many Catholics give up a vice for Lent, but even if you don't do it for religious reasons, you may find that giving something up for the same 40-day period is a good way to kick-start a healthy habit or lose weight.
To see just how effective avoiding an unhealthy food for 40 days can be, we've rounded up 10 popular foods that many people choose to give up for Lent, along with the total calories you'll save if you avoid them. You might be shocked at how many calories you can save in a little over a month from just giving up your favorite junk food.
Giving Up and Gaining Health: Benefits of Lent
As a Catholic, Lenten fasting has been a cornerstone of my springtime for as long as I can remember. When I was eight or nine, I remember I tried to give up salt. I was a weird kid. I had decided at the time that my diet (i.e., chicken nugget schedule) was too high in sodium, and I would avoid adding salt to my foods (I was unsuccessful, but it was cute that I tried). Other years I focused on more abstract goals, but more often than not, my sacrifices have been in the form of unhealthy foods, many of which have been vices . . . cough, pizza.
Scrolling through some Facebook comments on our own post, Unhealthy Foods to Give Up For Lent, made me think a little harder about the purpose of Lent, and why we do what we do. There's some truth in those comments. Lent is not a diet. Lent is about spiritual - and physical - sacrifice. Some practicing Catholics may feel upset by the sanitization of a holy period: the intent of this time is to recognize Christ's sacrifice, draw closer to God, and prepare for Easter - not to shed pounds. While I obviously can't speak on behalf of the Church, I can speak from my experience. I'll break down my thoughts on the subject of Lenten penance and fasting, in terms of dieting and health.
Lent, for me, has always been a time of fresh starts, of going back to basics, and of discipline - all of which reminds me to look inward. This time of spiritual focus allows us to create better habits that we can take with us far beyond these 40 days - and oftentimes it has a wonderful impact on our physical health. I think so many of these principles transcend religion and can be applied to anyone, especially someone on their health journey.
A great point one of my favorite authors made about fasting, and the sacrifice of food was this: often, we're letting our bodies control our mind and spirit, when it should be the other way around. Our bodies, our cravings, even fatigue or soreness - they all dictate how we think and act. How much or little we eat, the types of foods we eat, how much or little we exercise . . . it's all based on what our bodies are telling us, rather than what our minds really want. Do we really want that cheeseburger (sometimes yes)? Or would our bodies be A-okay with something leaner and lighter, with more nutrients?
Fasting, in any form, regardless of season or religion, allows you to regain that control over your body, and tell your body who's boss! Regaining this control and discipline allows us to be the best version of ourselves.
Caring for yourself and your health is a way of expressing gratitude for the gift that you've been given - the gift of your body. Perhaps you've been in a dark place because of poor eating habits, or a total lack of fitness. This is your time to turn inward (if you're Catholic, you know this means turning to Jesus!), focus on discipline, make sacrifices, and turn your life around. Catholic or not, all of us want to be the best we can be, physically, emotionally, and spiritually - and Lent is the perfect time to start.
PS, in case you're wondering, I gave up sweets - one of my vices - this year . . . for more reasons than just dietary ones!
The Calories You'll Save Giving Up These 10 Foods For Lent
After all the gluttonous Mardi Gras celebrations comes Lent, the Catholic season of penance that starts on Ash Wednesday. Many Catholics give up a vice for Lent, but even if you don't do it for religious reasons, you may find that giving something up for the same 40-day period is a good way to kick-start a healthy habit or lose weight.
To see just how effective avoiding an unhealthy food for 40 days can be, we've rounded up 10 popular foods that many people choose to give up for Lent, along with the total calories you'll save if you avoid them. You might be shocked at how many calories you can save in a little over a month from just giving up your favorite junk food.
Jason Momoa and Emilia Clarke's Cutest Friendship Moments
Jason Momoa's Game of Thrones character, Khal Drogo, hasn't been on the show since the end of season one, but he's still very much . . . around. In addition to Khal still holding a special place in the heart of his onscreen wife, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke), Jason and the actress are also good friends in real life. When they're not hitting red carpets together or casually hanging out away from the spotlight, Jason is usually posting something about "the moon of my life" on Instagram, frequently sharing screenshots of Emilia kicking ass on the show. While their Game of Thrones romance was a bit controversial, there is not one thing about their adorable real-life friendship that we don't love.
Jason Momoa and Emilia Clarke's Cutest Friendship Moments
Jason Momoa's Game of Thrones character, Khal Drogo, hasn't been on the show since the end of season one, but he's still very much . . . around. In addition to Khal still holding a special place in the heart of his onscreen wife, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke), Jason and the actress are also good friends in real life. When they're not hitting red carpets together or casually hanging out away from the spotlight, Jason is usually posting something about "the moon of my life" on Instagram, frequently sharing screenshots of Emilia kicking ass on the show. While their Game of Thrones romance was a bit controversial, there is not one thing about their adorable real-life friendship that we don't love.
Michelle Obama's Dress Will Tell You Exactly Where She's Going
When Michelle Obama's on business, she chooses designs that are tailored. You'll find her accessorizing with a structured leather bag and perhaps a strand of pearls. But when she's headed on vacation, Michelle lets loose. Forget the tidy hairstyle - she's rocking a wide headband and oversize shades. And when it comes to her dresses, they've all got a bit more movement, a bit more color, and a casual touch.
Whether they're made of linen or lace, or extend to the ground like some of her boho-style maxis, Michelle's vacation looks are bold enough to put a smile on your face. What might make you even more ecstatic, however, is shopping similar silhouettes ahead of your next getaway. Though you might not be jetting off to Honolulu on Air Force One with the Obamas, choosing a breezy outfit that's been FLOTUS-approved will always be on point. Scroll to get started.
The True Purpose of the Drawer Underneath Your Oven
You know that drawer below your oven? While many people use it to store baking dishes, that's not necessarily its purpose. The truth is, it could be a broiler drawer, warming drawer, or storage drawer depending on the type of oven you own. Here's how to figure out the purpose of this often misunderstood oven feature.
Broiler Drawer: If you have a gas stove and the heating unit is on the bottom of the oven, chances are, the drawer is a pull-out broiler drawer. Be sure to keep the drawer rack set in place and put the food in an oven-safe container before placing in the drawer. Use the broiler drawer to brown the top of a casserole, roast marshmallows for a s'mores dip or sweet potato casserole, or broil peppers or other veggies (for say, a roasted salsa). Since there's usually not a window, open the drawer every few minutes to make sure you don't completely burn the items as they cook quickly! Keep in mind, you probably don't want to store anything in this drawer (at least, not when the oven is on) as the heat radiates from the bottom and over time may warp metal baking trays, etc.
Warming Drawer: If your electric oven contains a "warming drawer" button, then congrats, that's what the drawer is used for! According to a video from GE, set it to low for pies, medium for casseroles, and high for meats. A warming drawer is especially helpful when your dish has finished cooking but you're not ready to eat just yet and for holiday seasons when oven space is scarce. To prevent the food from drying out, keep it wrapped in foil or an oven-safe lid.
Storage Drawer: Some electric ovens simply have storage drawers and in that case, you've been using it correctly all this time! Pots, pans, baking sheets, and casserole dishes can be tucked away here.
If you're still not sure of your oven drawer's purpose, do a quick search for the oven model online and read the product features. Those details will usually include whether the drawer is for broiling, warming, or storing.
America, You’ve Been Punk’d
The way things are going, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if we all woke up tomorrow and Ashton Kutcher was sitting in the Oval Office, arm around Donald Trump, as they both laugh conspiratorially over the gullible Americans who believed everything they've seen since November of 2016 was real. In unison, they declare, "America, you've been punked!"
Honestly, it's been hard to shake this surreal theater of the absurd that seems to be our new reality. It's not like there haven't been public gaffes and blunders in the past; one of the most beloved presidents of all time, John F. Kennedy, made a speech in Berlin on June of 1963 declaring, "I am a jelly doughnut," while reading a speech which hadn't been properly grammar-checked. The thing is, these mistakes and blunders seem to be happening at an alarming rate and at a time when we're also being sold a bill of goods about "truth" and the possibility of there being a subset of truth called "alternate facts".
This week's blunder at the Oscars was confusing and weird, but not as troubling or disorienting as watching the recent Senate confirmation hearings; Rick Perry gets confirmed as secretary of the Department of Energy, a department he once wanted to dismantle and famously forgot the name of during the 2011 presidential debates. Seven years ago, that kind of big-time public gaffe and irony was an anomaly. These days it's just another day on Capitol Hill. Consider when you hear Mr. Perry's colleagues say he may have a bit of a "learning curve" in this role, just how scary that statement is. This man is in charge of our nuclear arsenal! Consider, also, the quality of the man he's replacing - Ernest J. Moniz. Mr. Moniz was once chairman of the MIT Physics Department; It sort of feels like Mad Magazine's mascot, Alfred E. Neuman, is taking over for Einstein. "What, me worry?"
It's incredibly disarming when news coverage is almost indistinguishable from Saturday Night Live skits. The recent senate confirmation of Secretary of Education Betsy De Vos played like a typical send-up with Kate McKinnon. When De Vos was asked about guns in school she cited the possible need in case of grizzly bears. Seriously? Grizzly Bears? When did this become an issue on par with the disturbing and all too frequent cases of gun violence in American schools?
Here's the thing: a screw-up at the Oscars, or an insignificant production problem with sound check, like the Mariah Carey's New Year's Eve performance really isn't that big a deal. "That's entertainment!" as they say. But the delusional, absurd, and oftentimes fictitious content pouring out of our nation's capitol should give us pause. When I'm watching the nightly news coverage I want it to be distinguishable from binge-watching episodes of Punk'd!
Articles
