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 17 mars 2017
12 Celebrity Proposal Stories That Are Almost Too Over-the-Top to Be True
Thanks to flash mobs, elaborate videos, and hiding diamond rings inside of fortune cookies, simple marriage proposals have basically become a thing of the past. No one knows this better than celebrities, who have millions of dollars at their disposal to make sure they pop the question in the perfect way. From a private jet to the inside of an igloo, keep reading to see all of the over-the-top places and ways some of your favorite stars have proposed.
Your Favorite Teavana Teas Will Finally Be Available in Grocery Stores
Four delicious varieties of Teavana bottled teas are now available in grocery stores in New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Missouri. You can now purchase Pineapple Berry Blue Herbal Tea, Peach Green Tea, Passion Tango Herbal Tea, and Mango Black Tea in select grocery stores, but if you're not in one of the previously mentioned four states, fear not: Teavana will be rolling the teas out in the Northeast this Spring with the rest of the country to follow this Summer. They'll be more widely available in stores by 2018.
The teas come in sweet glass bottles and are all 100 calories or less. They contain no artificial flavors and are inspired by current Starbucks and Teavana offerings. The flavors are what you come to expect from the Teavana brand - refreshing and rejuvenating. You'll definitely find yourself reaching for these on your next grocery store trip!
The Special Part of Emma Watson's Givenchy Dress You Need to Know About
Emma Watson took on the green carpet challenge back in 2015, committing to wearing only ethically made clothing. Back then, she and her stylist Sarah Slutsky would break down each element of her outfit, from dainty jewels to pumps, detailing where every item came from on Instagram. But Emma's taking things one step further as she promotes Beauty and the Beast on the film's press tour, which started in Paris.
Emma created a new account called @the_press_tour, where she'll be sharing sketches of her looks, all-angle videos, and lengthy captions that credit the team who crafted her pieces. Many of the designers she's tapping, like Stella McCartney, have been on board with using recycled materials for years. Emma's dresses and jumpsuits are "verified green" by Eco-Age, a company that promotes sustainability through core principles that include matters of pollution, labor work, and fabric resourcing.
Scroll to get a look at everything Emma's worn so far - including Oscar de la Renta trousers that took her from the premiere red carpet to The Ellen DeGeneres Show along with a vintage YSL suit - then hold out for her next ensemble, which will cater to both her smart standards and sophisticated sense of style.
How Is It That I Gave Birth 9 Years Ago and My Baby Is Already Halfway to Freedom?
"Momma, how many days is it until my birthday?"
"Nine."
"Oh good, I CAN'T wait!"
Oh, my pretty girl, I can.
That's what I thought when she said it. Because, in nine days, she'll be 9 years old. And that simple question threw me back to that day almost 9 years ago. I was walking out of my local Starbucks to pick up my one cup of coffee for the day and I was exchanging pleasantries with a former classmate when I took two steps and had the most embarrassing moment of my life. "Oh my God, I think I peed my pants."
You want to know how awkward it is to stand in the Starbucks parking lot thinking you've peed your pants? I called my mother to share my embarrassment and she wisely said: "I don't think that's what happened." So, I went to work and called the doctor. He told me to come in immediately and the one person willing to take the time to drive me was pregnant herself. So there we were, two big ol' pregnant girls driving to the doctor.
When we arrived, my doctor himself appeared. The person I was entrusting with my life and my baby's. As we went back to the room, he looked at me and said: "Looks like we're having a baby today." My response was immediate and, if you know me well, expected: "Oh no, I can't do that today. I'm not ready."
He laughed. "You're having a baby TODAY. There's no time to wait." But I wanted to wait. I wasn't ready. Her room wasn't finished. She wasn't due for three weeks. I wanted to wait so I would be ready. I wanted to wait even more today at the realization that she will be 9 years old in nine days. I want to wait. She's one year away from double digits. Even further, she's nine years away from leaving me.
In nine years, she'll be 18 years old. She'll be prepping for college. She'll be prepping to leave me. It couldn't have happened this fast. It can't be that it's only been nine years since I wasn't ready for her to be here and nine years from when she will leave me. Today, I can wait.
Because now it's over. The first half of her dedicated life to me is almost over and I don't know how to handle that. The only way is to wait and see. I can wait for that day nine years from now. I can wait for that day when she's says she hates me and means it. I can wait for that day when she says she wants out and means it. I can wait for that day that I will lose her.
I can wait for that day, patiently and awkwardly, but just like the day she arrived, that day will come.
The thing that isn't in the parenting handbook is that you'll be waiting for this person your whole life. You'll wait and wish they were older when they're young and you're exhausted, and the second they are, you'll hope that it doesn't go by too fast. And then you'll wait to be there when everything falls apart. And wait to be there when it falls together. You'll wait, always, for the moment they need you. And you'll wait to watch them conquer the world. Because you know they will.
Beauty and the Beast Workout Clothes Might Get You More Swole Than Gaston
Gym beauties will swoon over these beast-mode-ready activewear finds - inspired by the soon-to-be-released live action version of one of our favorite Disney movies, of course. And while you don't need to eat five dozen eggs like Gaston to meet your fitness goals, we think that cute gymwear can help inspire you get to your workouts a little more often.
This Adorable New Lush Launch Looks Like a Normal Bath Bomb - Until You See What's Inside
Diehard fans of Lush's iconic bath bombs know that not all of the fizzy treats are created equally (and that's a beautiful thing). Some plop into the tub and gush a blend of nourishing oils, while others release a spray of glitter. But with the brand's newest obsession-worthy offering, what's inside is another bath bomb.
Yes, you heard right. Courtesy of Lush's Easter 2017 collection, you're about to experience bath bomb inception. And, of course, the item is impossibly adorable. The jumbo-sized Chick 'N' Mix bath bomb ($11) is actually comprised of three different fizzers. At first glance, it looks like a a chick popping out of a blue shell, but the treat functions similarly to a nesting doll. Separate the two halves, and stuffed inside is a tiny "baby bunny" bath bomb (!!!).
The best aspect of a three-piece bath bomb is that you can get three magical soaks out of one purchase. But if you'd rather indulge, just toss the whole thing in the water. You'll experience a delectable bergamot and tonka aroma that will leave skin smelling citrusy sweet. Keep reading for more shots of what it looks like in the tub and a video of how it's made!
Beauty and the Beast Workout Clothes Might Get You More Swole Than Gaston
Gym beauties will swoon over these beast-mode-ready activewear finds - inspired by the soon-to-be-released live action version of one of our favorite Disney movies, of course. And while you don't need to eat five dozen eggs like Gaston to meet your fitness goals, we think that cute gymwear can help inspire you get to your workouts a little more often.
What Can Happen If Kids Don't Stop Sucking Their Thumbs
For many parents, it's a familiar sight: their little ones self-soothing by sucking their thumbs or fingers. Although most assume this is a temporary habit that they will outgrow (hopefully before any orthodontic damage is done), that isn't always the case.
Some parents try to break their child's habit if they don't outgrow it by the time they start school by painting their nails with a foul-tasting polish or through punishment. However, getting kids to stop can be a difficult task. Clinical psychologist Helen Nightingale told the Daily Mail that prolonged thumb-sucking can happen automatically because of familial causes. "It's often passed down in families,' she said. "It's highly self-soothing and, as such, it is very resistant to change."
For some babies, this ingrained habit is the first reflex that they learn and is the same reflex used for breastfeeding. Sandra Trebinski, who specializes in hypnotherapy, believes that this behavior continues past childhood because of the emotional comfort it provides during stressful times as well as the attention that it brings.
Through her work at the Hypnotherapy Centre in England, she sees an estimated 200 to 300 cases of adults who suck their thumbs per month, despite wanting to stop. (According to a recent study conducted by Babychild.org.uk, 12 percent of adults still suck their thumbs!) "While most children drop the habit naturally, those who continue will often receive parental criticism which, while negative, is still attention and works to get them noticed," Sandra told the Daily Mail. "The longer that the habit continues, the more it becomes ingrained in the subconscious and becomes an anchor activity that induces a relaxed state of mind."
Aside from the emotional distress that thumb-sucking in teenage and adult years can cause, like the feelings of shame and secrecy, it can also create physical damage. "Persistent thumb-sucking can reshape the mouth. Before the age of 6, it's fine, as your adult teeth haven't come in, but once they do, the problems can start," said Dr. Neil Counihan, an orthodontist who established the United Kingdom's first thumb-sucking clinic. "You can try physical barriers such as thumb guards, but ultimately you have to want to stop."
The 23 Stages Every Pregnant Woman Goes Through
You're pregnant, congratulations! You're about to experience nine of the most special, beautiful months of your life while you grow a little human inside your body - though that's to say, they'll also be some of the most draining, exhausting, eye-opening months of your life, too.
Every woman who has had a baby knows that pregnancy is quite the ride, so these 23 stages of those nine months as told by GIFs may just seem a little too real.
Iron Fist: Will There Be Season 2?
Marvel is steadily building a TV empire over at Netflix, but will its latest series get a shot at a second season? No news has been announced about whether Iron Fist will return for season two, but there are somethings we can take into consideration. First, let's look at Marvel's history with Netflix.
- Daredevil premiered on April 10, 2015. Season one earned a 98 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, and Netflix announced that it was renewing the show on April 21.
- The next Marvel series to debut was Jessica Jones, which came out on Nov. 20, 2015. Rotten Tomatoes scored it at 93 percent, and Netflix announced its renewal for season two on Jan. 17, 2016.
- Luke Cage hit Netflix on Sep. 30, 2016 and earned a 96 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. Several months later on Dec. 4, Netflix confirmed that a second season was on the way.
Every Marvel/Netflix collaboration so far has scored extremely high with critics. Iron Fist, on the other hand, is currently sitting on Rotten Tomatoes with a score of 19 percent. 19 percent. It's actually shocking to see a score so low, and it doesn't bode well for a series that has already been overshadowed by a less-than-diverse casting decision. In fact, at this point I'd say it's likely that Marvel could throw in the towel and limit Iron Fist's future appearances to The Defenders.
20 Healthy Cauliflower Recipes For Every Meal of the Day
Cauliflower is one of the most versatile vegetable out there that lends itself to a multitude of recipes. This snow white veggie is definitely having a moment because of its versatility and ability to act as a substitute for popular carb-heavy dishes. The veggie is also packed full of nutrients and is low in calories so it's the perfect ingredient when trying to hit those health goals. These 20 recipes put a twist on the veggie staple and include unique dishes that will keep your healthy goals in check.
Kate and Will Kick Off Their Trip to Paris by Meeting the President
Kate Middleton and Prince William kicked off their two-day trip to Paris on Friday. The couple, who celebrated St. Patrick's Day at the Irish Guards Parade in London earlier that morning, jetted off to the City of Light in the afternoon. After they arrived they met with French President Francois Hollande at the Élysée Palace. Kate, who appeared to fly in the same outfit, flashed her signature smile while chatting with the president. She also threw some loving glances at William, which may surprise some people as the Duchess of Cambridge was reportedly unhappy with her husband's behavior during his recent ski trip to the Swiss Alps. They then attended a reception at the British Embassy, where Kate stunned in a black dress and matching heels.
During Kate and Will's two days in Paris, they will meet with survivors of the 2015 terror attack on the Bataclan Concert Hall. The trip also marks the first time William has visited the city since his mother, Princess Diana, died in a tragic car accident there in 1997. While she is surely on William's mind, he will not be visiting any sites associated with her death. Since the two were sent to the French capital by the British Foreign Office to build a relationship between Britain and France just as their country is gearing up to leave the European Union after last year's Brexit vote, the trip is about business rather than remembrance.
20 Healthy Cauliflower Recipes For Every Meal of the Day
Cauliflower is one of the most versatile vegetable out there that lends itself to a multitude of recipes. This snow white veggie is definitely having a moment because of its versatility and ability to act as a substitute for popular carb-heavy dishes. The veggie is also packed full of nutrients and is low in calories so it's the perfect ingredient when trying to hit those health goals. These 20 recipes put a twist on the veggie staple and include unique dishes that will keep your healthy goals in check.
Kate and Will Kick Off Their Trip to Paris by Meeting the President
Kate Middleton and Prince William kicked off their two-day trip to Paris on Friday. The couple, who celebrated St. Patrick's Day at the Irish Guards Parade in London earlier that morning, jetted off to the City of Light in the afternoon. After they arrived they met with French President Francois Hollande at the Élysée Palace. Kate, who appeared to fly in the same outfit, flashed her signature smile while chatting with the president. She also threw some loving glances at William, which may surprise some people as the Duchess of Cambridge was reportedly unhappy with her husband's behavior during his recent ski trip to the Swiss Alps. They then attended a reception at the British Embassy, where Kate stunned in a black dress and matching heels.
During Kate and Will's two days in Paris, they will meet with survivors of the 2015 terror attack on the Bataclan Concert Hall. The trip also marks the first time William has visited the city since his mother, Princess Diana, died in a tragic car accident there in 1997. While she is surely on William's mind, he will not be visiting any sites associated with her death. Since the two were sent to the French capital by the British Foreign Office to build a relationship between Britain and France just as their country is gearing up to leave the European Union after last year's Brexit vote, the trip is about business rather than remembrance.
These Vintage Photos of Colin Farrell Are the Kinds of Things Your Parents Warned You About
Long before Colin Farrell was charming us in romantic indie movies and gushing about his adorable children, he enjoyed a decade-long reign as Hollywood's resident bad boy in the '00s. With his leather wrist cuffs, pinky rings, and gelled hair that would make *NSYNC-era Lance Bass shiver with jealousy, the Irish actor had fans and famous females alike (looking at you, Britney Spears!) in the palm of his very sexy hand. Keep reading to see all of his hottest moments and questionable fashion choices back in the day, and then check out his killer modern-day bod!
Eva Mendes Missed the Oscars, but Just Popped Up All Over This New Campaign
If, like us, you were hoping to catch Eva Mendes at the Oscars alongside Ryan Gosling, you were probably disappointed the actress was a no-show. No glamorous gown or jewels to fulfill our dreams of the Hollywood couple all glammed up together. Not to worry. The consolation prize comes in the form of Eva Mendes's brand new New York & Co. campaign. The Spring images for her collaboration with the brand feature the actress and mom herself, looking every bit as enchanting as you'd imagine. And while the chic sheaths, pencil skirts, and vibrant printed dresses inside are no Oscar gowns, Eva doesn't need a red carpet to wow us. Read on to see her stunning campaign photos in full.
26 Moments That Made You Fall Hook, Line, and Sinker For Colin O'Donoghue
You might be be a fan of Emma and Hook's sweet romance on Once Upon a Time, but let's be honest: in reality, you want Colin O'Donoghue all to yourself. Colin has delivered scores and scores of sexy moments on the show, and we're not surprised that he can take his smolders off screen, too. In honor of St. Patrick's Day, we thought we'd treat you to a bunch of supersexy moments from the Irish actor.
Can Crystal Healing Change Your Life?
Crystals are everywhere! Jewelry, beauty treatments, even the bedroom - in the latest episode of Hannahgram, Hannah meets with natural healer Kalisa Augustine to learn how crystals are used in the world of holistic healing.
This Incredible Portrait Series of Acid Attack Survivors Will Take Your Breath Away
The next time you walk down a busy city street enjoying the sunshine, consider how, for many women in India, this pretty scene could turn violent in seconds.
According to the BBC, more than a thousand women annually are brutally attacked with nitric or sulfuric acid, leaving many blinded, unable to use their hands, and horrifically scarred. In turn, they are often ostracized and can't find work. Additionally, in communities of women that rely on financial support from their husband, those attacked by acid rarely get married, leaving them in extreme poverty.
In recent years, campaigns like Stop Acid Attacks have been spotlighting these unbelievable crimes in order to rally support for survivors. (You may remember this heartbreaking makeup tutorial created by one survivor.) Now, Delhi-based photographer Niraj Gera is celebrating their bravery - and slamming discrimination against them - in a breathtaking, deeply emotional portrait series, "Sacred Transformations."
Gera, who has surprisingly only been taking professional photos since 2010, specializes in street photography. But when he met directors and members of the Chhanv Foundation, an organization that creates a safe space for acid attack survivors in 2014, he was seriously moved to help them.
"I wondered how could one be so heartless to be inflicting such inhumane trauma (both physical and mental) on anyone," Gera told POPSUGAR via email. "I had to use my skills as a photographer to bring them out in the mainstream. They needed to be taken seriously, and accepted in the society with the much-required sensitivity."
He added, sensitivity paves the way for tolerance and mutual respect. It also generates courage to speak up for any wrong in society." In hopes of getting his art's viewers to connect with them, he decided to showcase the emotional journey of the survivors.
At first, it wasn't easy to convince these women to pose for the camera. But Gera worked carefully to create a comfortable environment, and the shoots resulted in some emotional moments. "There were times they laughed and danced around with all their energy, whereas there were also days when they could not hold themselves and cried," he shared. "Overall it was a beautiful journey and all of us lived every moment to the fullest." Throughout the project, he found that he was deeply inspired by their bravery and courage. (Once you see these images, you will be too.)
Like all high-quality art, Gera's series makes the viewer think hard about the topic. He wants "Sacred Transformations" to understand that the survivors are no different from they are, and that they deserve equal opportunities in life - career stability, a close-knit family, and marriage prospects all come to mind. "Victimizing them because of the consequences of somebody else's crime only adds to the injustice which has happened to them," he said.
He's also hopeful that by seeing the results of these violent crimes, people will take a stand against them and refuse to normalize discrimination. "Let's not stand still and ignore such injustices," he declared. "Instead, rise up and take a step (no matter how big or small) towards bringing change." Read on to see the empowering images, then learn how you can help acid attack survivors here.
These Vintage Photos of Colin Farrell Are the Kinds of Things Your Parents Warned You About
Long before Colin Farrell was charming us in romantic indie movies and gushing about his adorable children, he enjoyed a decade-long reign as Hollywood's resident bad boy in the '00s. With his leather wrist cuffs, pinky rings, and gelled hair that would make *NSYNC-era Lance Bass shiver with jealousy, the Irish actor had fans and famous females alike (looking at you, Britney Spears!) in the palm of his very sexy hand. Keep reading to see all of his hottest moments and questionable fashion choices back in the day, and then check out his killer modern-day bod!
49 of the Most Iconic Celebrity Couples of the '90s
Sure, the 2000s gave us high-profile pairs like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston, and of course, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez - but there really was no better time to follow iconic celebrity couples than the '90s. From Brad and Gwyneth to Bruce and Demi, scroll through for a romantic walk down memory lane. Winona forever!
26 Moments That Made You Fall Hook, Line, and Sinker For Colin O'Donoghue
You might be be a fan of Emma and Hook's sweet romance on Once Upon a Time, but let's be honest: in reality, you want Colin O'Donoghue all to yourself. Colin has delivered scores and scores of sexy moments on the show, and we're not surprised that he can take his smolders off screen, too. In honor of St. Patrick's Day, we thought we'd treat you to a bunch of supersexy moments from the Irish actor.
49 of the Most Iconic Celebrity Couples of the '90s
Sure, the 2000s gave us high-profile pairs like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston, and of course, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez - but there really was no better time to follow iconic celebrity couples than the '90s. From Brad and Gwyneth to Bruce and Demi, scroll through for a romantic walk down memory lane. Winona forever!
You'll Want Prince Harry's Girlfriend to Be Your BFF After Seeing These Snaps
It's clear things are heating up in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship. The pair recently went to a wedding together, and on extended vacation, and she's been introduced to a few members of the royal family, including Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte. While we've already gotten to know more about the Suits actress, we've yet to dive into her dreamy Instagram account, which is rife with glamorous shots, enviable vacations, and lots of girl time. She's shied away from posting any pictures with Harry, but even without her hot royal man, her feed looks like a good time - one we certainly wouldn't mind being a part of.
33 Times Tyra Banks Was Truly Iconic on America's Next Top Model
Mama's coming home. After handing over the reins of America's Next Top Model to Rita Ora, Tyra Banks has announced that she's returning as host for the second season of VH1's reboot. No disrespect to Ora, but yaaasss. As producer Ken Mok (that guy whose name you always see in the credits) said in a statement, "Tyra has always been the heart and soul of the franchise and her absence was deeply felt by our fiercely loyal fans who missed their Queen of the Smize." In honor of her grand return, here are 33 unforgettable moments that make us love the model-turned-mogul.
You'll Want Prince Harry's Girlfriend to Be Your BFF After Seeing These Snaps
It's clear things are heating up in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship. The pair recently went to a wedding together, and on extended vacation, and she's been introduced to a few members of the royal family, including Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte. While we've already gotten to know more about the Suits actress, we've yet to dive into her dreamy Instagram account, which is rife with glamorous shots, enviable vacations, and lots of girl time. She's shied away from posting any pictures with Harry, but even without her hot royal man, her feed looks like a good time - one we certainly wouldn't mind being a part of.
7 Facts About Once Upon a Time Hearthrob Colin O'Donoghue
If you're a fan of Once Upon a Time, then odds are, you're obsessed with Colin O'Donoghue. The Irish actor is best known for making hearts swoon as Captain Hook, but his dashing good looks aren't the only reason we admire him. Whether you've followed his character since the beginning or you're new to the Colin fandom, we've rounded up a few interesting facts about the star that are sure to get you hooked.
Get a Glimpse at Will and Kate's Royal Life With These 37 Personal Photos
While the British royal family remains pretty private outside of their official appearances, they do offer more intimate glimpses at their personal lives with the release of official portraits from time to time. The photos are typically shared to commemorate a special occasion, like a wedding or a birthday, and they are more often than not totally frame-worthy. Prince William and Kate Middleton took their first official photos following their 2010 engagement, and in the years since they've shared multiple sets of images marking important milestones in their lives, especially around the holidays. We've even gotten a glimpse at what their thank-you cards look like! Scroll through to get a glimpse at Will and Kate's royal life as told by their palace-approved photographs.
These Photos of Jason Momoa Prove Just How Large and Sexy He Really Is
When Jason Momoa stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live, he drank a few beers and threw some axes at a wall, as you do. But before he made his way inside, the Aquaman actor took some time to mingle with a few fans. Jason, dressed in black pants and a yellow t-shirt, showed off his signature long hair and arm tattoo as he took selfies and signed autographs. But while we're always mesmerized every time he steps out in public, this outing hilariously reminded us that he is a very huge man. In addition to towering over a group of security men, Jason also had to bend down to talk to a lot of his fans. After looking at these pictures we guarantee one of two things will happen: you will either leave work early today for a "personal" afternoon, or you will daydream about his large arms wrapping tightly around you. Now excuse us while we go email our boss . . .
This post was originally published on Jan. 27, 2017
7 Facts About Once Upon a Time Hearthrob Colin O'Donoghue
If you're a fan of Once Upon a Time, then odds are, you're obsessed with Colin O'Donoghue. The Irish actor is best known for making hearts swoon as Captain Hook, but his dashing good looks aren't the only reason we admire him. Whether you've followed his character since the beginning or you're new to the Colin fandom, we've rounded up a few interesting facts about the star that are sure to get you hooked.
Get a Glimpse at Will and Kate's Royal Life With These 37 Personal Photos
While the British royal family remains pretty private outside of their official appearances, they do offer more intimate glimpses at their personal lives with the release of official portraits from time to time. The photos are typically shared to commemorate a special occasion, like a wedding or a birthday, and they are more often than not totally frame-worthy. Prince William and Kate Middleton took their first official photos following their 2010 engagement, and in the years since they've shared multiple sets of images marking important milestones in their lives, especially around the holidays. We've even gotten a glimpse at what their thank-you cards look like! Scroll through to get a glimpse at Will and Kate's royal life as told by their palace-approved photographs.
The Things I Wish I Knew Would Change About "Adulting" After Kids
Before I had children, I was blissfully ignorant as to what real adulting is all about. I had a mortgage, student loans, and a car payment, but none of that compared to what I was in for when my first child was born. Fevers, tantrums, navigating the boy's department in a futile attempt to fall in love with something on their two tiny racks standing next to 30 racks of girls' stuff, that's when life got hard.
Up until the moment I gave birth, I never for one second worried about another person's bodily functions. Today, as a mother of four, I am constantly watching facial expressions and listening for gurgling, making mental notes of skin tones so as not to miss the chance to catch vomit in my hand before it hits the carpet.
And no, I don't have quadruplet infants. These clowns that I am following around with cupped hands range in age from a year old up to almost 9. This should no longer be an issue with the older kids, but here I am every flu season wondering why in the hell we ever bought a house without hardwood floors in the bedrooms. Hilariously, we bought this house after all of our children were born . . . sleep deprivation makes you do really stupid things.
Prior to being a mother, I had heard the phrase, "You can't please all of the people all of the time," and thought, give me a break! My kids will love everything that I buy them to wear, every meal that I prepare to nourish them, and they will certainly cherish 90s rap just like their painfully-white Midwestern mother. All of these dreams were shattered as soon as I placed them on the shelf.
All of these dreams were shattered as soon as I placed them on the shelf.
Our daily routine will undoubtedly be interrupted by someone in crisis mode because I have laid out his favorite hoodie, which he has worn every day for the past six months, by the way, but has determined overnight to be the ugliest thing in the world. Or I will make a delicious dinner for my suddenly lactose intolerant, vegetarian, gluten-intolerant little one. This is the same child who ate an entire box of cereal topped with a gallon of milk and a pound of bacon on the side for breakfast yesterday. And we won't even talk about what they want to listen to on the radio. If Tupac really is dead, which I cannot be 100 percent sure about, I can picture him rolling!
Have you ever had the pleasure of doing math homework with a school-aged child? If not, please help yourself to a seat at my dining room table any Sunday through Thursday evening. I am the one on the floor in the fetal position crying because despite the fact that I have a bachelor's degree, I must have missed grade school completely!
I understand why all the parents in the 1980s drank beer, smoked cigarettes and voraciously read the newspaper. I'd gladly cover my fingers with newsprint and hide my head in the obits if it meant that my children could not read the confusion on my face. The cigs would calm my nerves and the beers would at least make it kind of fun. Instead, I sip on my Diet Coke while googling Common Core math and saying a Hail Mary.
When I was childless, I went to sleep with no fears of being woken up in the middle of the night by anything other than my husband's snoring. Since becoming a mother, it is with almost 100 percent certainty that I will not make it through the night without a cry, scream, laugh, or crash jolting me from my peaceful slumber. I particularly like it when someone comes and pries my eyelids open with a fat, sweaty finger and says, "Mom! I just wanted to tell you that I am awake, but I am going to go downstairs and watch TV so that you can rest."
My closet door locks from the inside and creates a soundproof booth. If I wasn't sure that they'd quickly give up a search and rescue effort after they got bored, leaving me to suffocate among my husband's sweaters and dresses that I will never fit into again, I would probably sleep in there.
I have no idea what I thought motherhood would be like. I can't remember what my husband and I did in a house alone.
I have no idea what I thought motherhood would be like. I can't remember what my husband and I did in a house alone. I know that it was always spotless and the bills were always paid on time. And I am pretty sure that I didn't have to clean his dinner up off of the floor where he tossed it or wipe jelly off of his face or out of his hair.
For nearly a decade, I have either been pregnant with, giving birth to, or attempting to raise someone who will become a decent human being. They make me happy. The make me angry. They make me the person that I love to be, their mom. I cannot fathom my life before them or what it will be like when they are grown and don't need me anymore. And despite being tired and crabby and a disorganized disaster, I wouldn't change a thing.
Well, except for that one time I was shaving my legs and noticed a pair of eyes creeping at me through the shower curtain, which caused me to scream, drop the razor, and have to wear three Band-Aids on my ankle to my husband's company Christmas party in lieu of stitches. I would probably change that.
The Scary Reason Whole Foods Has Recalled Some of Its Cheeses
If shopping for fancy cheeses at Whole Foods is one of your favorite pastimes, there are a couple cheeses you'll want to avoid because of a recall issued by the store. Last year, Whole Foods recalled Maytag Blue Cheese because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination, and recently, the company has recalled more cheeses for the same reason.
This time around, the recall includes raw-milk cheeses from Vulto Creamery, including the Andes, Hamden, and Walton Umber cheeses. The cheeses were cut and packaged in clear plastic wrap with labels beginning with PLU codes 0200307, 0201357, or 0206308 and "sell by" dates from Jan. 2, 2017 to April 2, 2017, so be sure to check your labels if you have any in your fridge.
The raw-milk cheese from Vulto Creamery has caused a few illnesses and deaths. Whole Foods said in a statement, "As of March 10, 2017 Vulto Creamery is reporting the particular strain of Listeria monocytogenes is responsible for six illnesses and two deaths; however, Whole Foods Market has not received any reports of illnesses or injuries from consumers who purchased the raw cheeses from their stores."
For now, it might be best to avoid these cheeses and opt for any number of the best cheeses from Whole Foods.
These Photos of Jason Momoa Prove Just How Large and Sexy He Really Is
When Jason Momoa stopped by Jimmy Kimmel Live, he drank a few beers and threw some axes at a wall, as you do. But before he made his way inside, the Aquaman actor took some time to mingle with a few fans. Jason, dressed in black pants and a yellow t-shirt, showed off his signature long hair and arm tattoo as he took selfies and signed autographs. But while we're always mesmerized every time he steps out in public, this outing hilariously reminded us that he is a very huge man. In addition to towering over a group of security men, Jason also had to bend down to talk to a lot of his fans. After looking at these pictures we guarantee one of two things will happen: you will either leave work early today for a "personal" afternoon, or you will daydream about his large arms wrapping tightly around you. Now excuse us while we go email our boss . . .
This post was originally published on Jan. 27, 2017
F*ck Roses: This Girl Popped the Question With a Freakin' DORITOS BOUQUET
When you think of wedding season, you might get nauseous about the idea of lovey-dovey proposals complete with flowers, white doves, and mushy-gushy declarations of love. But not in Vancouver, at least at Thursday's Canucks hockey game; one woman decided to ask her boyfriend the big question, and she did it in a way that'll make you scream "YES!"
With a bouquet of rose-shaped, ketchup-flavored Doritos - yes, the freakin' chips - in hand, the hockey fan surprised her partner with a simple question. Naturally, he said yes, and we presume that they will live happily ever after with a pantry always overflowing with chips. Check out the video below, and send it to your significant other as a hint. Takes notes, ladies and gentlemen!
How did you guys get engaged?
Oh you know, #Canucks Puck Shuffle proposal! http://pic.twitter.com/3tR7I0mHCv- Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) March 17, 2017
Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn's Modern Family Is Absolutely Golden
Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn have one epic romance, but the only thing sweeter than their love story is their adorable blended family. Together, they share four children: Boston Russell, from Kurt's previous marriage to Season Hubley, Kate and Oliver Hudson, from Goldie's previous marriage to Bill Hudson, and their son, Wyatt, who they welcomed in 1986. In addition to their kids, they also have five grandchildren. While they have been known to post about their sweet family life on social media, they have also brought out the Russell/Hudson clan on the red carpet from time to time. See some of their sweetest photos here.
This Is Us Season 2: Everything We Already Know
Your weekly cryfest, This Is Us, is also one of the hottest new TV shows. So hot, in fact, that it got renewed for not one but two seasons back in January, a feat basically unheard of in network TV. And the only thing sadder than the plot twists of this show is the fact that we only have one more new episode before the hiatus. Lucky for us, we already have a bit of info about what we can expect next Fall.
There Are More Family Dynamics to Explore
Like previous beloved family drama before it, Parenthood (which ran for six seasons), there are nearly endless stories you can tell about a family. Obviously we'll see more Pearson family dynamics explored in season two, and star Justin Hartley intimated to us that the show might explore Randall and Rebecca's relationship more in season two. And we'll obviously also see the next stage in Jack and Rebecca's relationship since the finale showed a cataclysmic relationship fight.
The Episode Count
There will be 18 episodes of season two, and the same number for season three. Creator Dan Fogelman said that the seasons will also be split into two arcs before and after the holidays, like season one.
William Will Still Be Part of the Show
In one of the saddest moments of a very sad season, William succumbs to his illness. That would seem like it would close the door on cast member Ron Cephas Jones being on the show anymore, but it didn't. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly right after William's death episode, Jones said that he would be back in season two in some way. He compared his resurfacing to the fact that Jack is dead in present day, but Milo Ventimiglia is a series regular. "I do know that he's going to carry over into season two in some way, just as well as Jack was in all of season one." He added that "there's a chunk of his life that we haven't explored" and that he's "very excited" about all the possibilities.
William's Death Will Inform Randall's Season 2 Storyline
After the episode about William's death aired, creator Fogelman told Entertainment Weekly that Randall's grief will be a big part of the next season. Fogelman said that Randall will ponder "'How do I honor his legacy? What do I do with what just happened in this year I've just spent with this man so that I just don't go back to the same old existence?' And he starts making a bunch of choices and decisions that will affect us going into season 2." By the end of the season, Randall has quit his job and decided he wants to adopt, so perhaps those are the ways he is honoring his biological father's legacy (please, please, please let us see Randall as a stay-at-home dad).
Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn's Modern Family Is Absolutely Golden
Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn have one epic romance, but the only thing sweeter than their love story is their adorable blended family. Together, they share four children: Boston Russell, from Kurt's previous marriage to Season Hubley, Kate and Oliver Hudson, from Goldie's previous marriage to Bill Hudson, and their son, Wyatt, who they welcomed in 1986. In addition to their kids, they also have five grandchildren. While they have been known to post about their sweet family life on social media, they have also brought out the Russell/Hudson clan on the red carpet from time to time. See some of their sweetest photos here.
According to Victoria's Secret Models, This Is the Best Bikini
Our search for the best bra or bikini never stops. (As proof, we've even curated list of the best bras to own and the best swimsuits to get you started.) Every season though, we also like to refresh our stash with new colors and designs. "But where to start looking?" you may ask. For some insider insight, we turned to the ladies of Victoria's Secret. Ask any of the models what her favorite intimates or swimsuits are and she'll likely have a recommendation for you in seconds. It's in her DNA.
So when we spoke to two of Victoria's Secret Pink's newest faces - Zuri Tibby and Grace Elizabeth - they had answers ready for us. Aside from bombarding them with inquiries like, "what's it like being a VS Pink model?" (busy and involves lots of traveling) and "hardest part about the job" (being away from home), we also chatted about the best bras and swimsuits out there. Given the models are basically experts on the subject matter, you'll want to find out their go-to picks below. Your Spring bikini shopping? Consider it done.
Emma Watson's Belle Dress Is Going to Be Different, but in a Good Way
We all patiently waited for it: the reveal of Emma Watson's Belle dress in Beauty and the Beast. Made with silk, the yellow princess ball gown is better than we imagined. The dress has a satin finish that glows for the camera while the layers of organza give the dress a light, bouncy lift. Though parts of the costume has a cage, one specific constricting piece was left out of the new design.
Beauty and the Beast's costume designer Jacqueline Durran revealed in an interview that Belle's dress in the live-action film would not have a corset, a change Emma pushed for herself.
"For Emma, it was important that the dress was light and that it had a lot of movement," Durran said. "In Emma's reinterpretation, Belle is an active princess. She did not want a dress that was corseted or that would impede her in any way."
Given that the actress is a proud feminist and supporter of HeForShe, it's not surprising she spoke up and did away with a tight-fitting bodice in the name of comfort. Scroll through for a glimpse of Belle's updated gown and other outfits, then check out Emma's green red carpet choices on the press tour.
Prepare to Be Shocked by How Much Christina Aguilera Has Changed
When Christina Aguilera burst onto the scene in 1999 with her debut self-titled album, she was just 19 years old. Now, she has an incredible 15-year career with seven albums under her belt, and back in August 2015, she gave birth to her second child. Also, if her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon taught us anything new, it's that Christina is really, really good at pop star impressions. We thought it was high time we look back at her incredible transformation through the years, as well as the inspiring quotes about body image she's shared along the way. Keep reading to go all the way back to 1999.
Prepare to Be Shocked by How Much Christina Aguilera Has Changed
When Christina Aguilera burst onto the scene in 1999 with her debut self-titled album, she was just 19 years old. Now, she has an incredible 15-year career with seven albums under her belt, and back in August 2015, she gave birth to her second child. Also, if her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon taught us anything new, it's that Christina is really, really good at pop star impressions. We thought it was high time we look back at her incredible transformation through the years, as well as the inspiring quotes about body image she's shared along the way. Keep reading to go all the way back to 1999.
After Hearing a Woman's Racist Diatribe on the Subway, This Latina Spoke Up
Tracey Tong was riding the subway in New York City when she overheard a fellow passenger verbally attacking two Muslim passengers. After the woman repeatedly told the couple that she didn't approve of them residing in the United States - "I don't like it," the woman kept repeating - Tracey stepped in.
Though other passengers had already tried to stop the disturbing conversation, the brave Chinese-Peruvian 23-year-old approached the woman by asking one simple question: "Are you from here?" After learning that the woman was Puerto Rican, Tracey replied in Spanish and said, "Here, we need to all unite together. We don't need to be against another person. That is absolutely ridiculous and disrespectful."
Meanwhile, an onlooker captured the entire exchange. In the shocking video, Tracey continues to calmly talk the woman down and, while she may not have changed the woman's mind, she certainly stood up for what was right. In one moment, Tracey confidently said, "We're all in this together. Whether we like what's going on in the government or not. F*ck it. We gotta deal with it. You're a grown woman. Suck it up and defend your brothers and sisters." Watch the exchange in its entirety above.
The Lyric Video For Ed Sheeran's "Galway Girl" Makes Drunken Karaoke Much Easier
Just in time for St. Patrick's Day, Ed Sheeran has released the official lyric video for "Galway Girl." The song was inspired by a girl Sheeran met one night while out drinking, and it's probably the best modern song you can listen to on your pub crawl. The lyric video just makes it easier for you to have an impromptu drunken karaoke session! Check it out, and find out who else inspired Sheeran's greatest hits.
12 Times This Is Us Made You Bawl Like a Baby
If you watch This Is Us, then you know that the show basically doubles as a weekly cry-fest. Aside from the phenomenal acting, there are also quite a few tragic twists in each episode. Now that the series has officially wrapped its first season, putting our sob sessions to a screeching halt, we've decided to round up the saddest moments. Of course, as we learn more about Jack's death next season, we're sure there will be plenty more to add to this list later on. We suggest playing the show's equally heartbreaking soundtrack while you read.
Wait Until You See Why This Student's Common Core Math Work Was Marked Wrong
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There's a Common Core math assignment that's confusing parents more than the kids it is testing. An image - posted in Oct. 2015 - of a worksheet asking students to "use the repeated addition method" to solve 5 x 3. The student wrote 5 + 5 + 5 = 15 and was marked wrong. The teacher corrected it, saying the answer is 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 15, meaning five groups of three. So even though the student came up with the correct answer, and showed his or her work, points are deducted.
A second question on the worksheet asks students to calculate 4 x 6 using an array. This time the student drew an array with six rows and four columns showing that the answer is 24. But the teacher marked it wrong, saying the array should have been drawn with four rows and six columns to come the answer of 24. Again, points were deducted.
So what's going on here? Parents of today's generation of elementary school students were raised on a different math. We memorized multiplication tables and didn't transform multiplication problems into addition. Common Core math is designed to help children do more math in their heads, breaking down problems into "friendly" numbers that will help them. But do semantics like this really matter? The child has arrived at the correct number and even showcased his or her work thoroughly. Should they really be marked wrong for such an answer?
I don't know about you, but I find myself throwing up my hands in frustration over such issues on a nightly basis. Do you think this answer should have been marked wrong?
This post was originally published on Oct. 27, 2015.
The Most Stylish "OMG, I'm Engaged!" Wedding Ring Instagrams - Ever
The moment you accept your stunning engagement ring, you want to snap a photo and show it off - what else? But the ladies ahead took a moment to breathe, admired every little detail, and considered the right light for showing off their unique stones.
These brides-to-be didn't just hold up their left hand and upload a quick pic to their feeds. From the way they displayed their sparklers - lightly grasping their fiancé's wrist or fashioned with additional jewels - it's clear they kept style in mind.
Read on for the 32 most fashionable engagement ring photos we could find on the 'gram, all of which scream personality and speak to a highly sophisticated taste, the same way a standout outfit would.
Kate Middleton Looks Totally at Ease While Drinking Guinness and Chatting With Soldiers
Kate Middleton got into the St. Patrick's Day spirit by enjoying a cold glass of Guinness during a visit to the Cavalry Barracks on Friday. Kate and Prince William met with soldiers of the 1st battalion Irish Guards after attending the St. Patrick's Day parade in London, where they presented the Guardsmen (as well as The Regimental mascot, a massive Irish Wolfhound) with shamrocks. Kate, who was clad in a bespoke dark green Catherine Walker coat, sipped on her beer while chatting with the soldiers; maybe they were trading Irish coffee recipes or discussing Ed Sheeran's new album?
It's kind of nice that Kate is getting her chance to kick back and enjoy a beer, as William appeared to do plenty of that during his recent controversial ski trip in the Swiss Alps. The boys-only getaway got the prince in a bit of hot water, as it was revealed that he took the trip in favor of attending an annual ceremony for Commonwealth Day in the UK with the rest of his family. Kate was reportedly "disappointed" in William's behavior during the trip, with a source telling Vanity Fair, "She thought his partying days and larking around with the boys was a thing of the past."
Bask in the Glory That Is Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell's Relationship Evolution
Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn are undeniably one of Hollywood's most inspiring and well-loved couples. They began dating in 1983, share four children - Kate and Oliver Hudson and Wyatt and Boston Russell - and have become a picture-perfect example of the contemporary blended family, eschewing marriage in favor of a non-formal commitment. When asked about why she and Kurt haven't tied the knot, Goldie said, "The question is, 'Why (get married)?' It's not, 'Why not?' We love each other. We fight the way people are supposed to fight. We love our lives together."
In addition to building a family, they've both established storied separate careers and have also starred together in three films - The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band, Swing Shift, and Overboard, which they recently watched for the first time ever. Goldie tweeted out about the date night, saying, "Kurt n I snuggled up and watched Overboard together. The first time we have seen it all the way thru since it came out. Now that's Romance." In honor of their epic relationship, we've roundup up the best pictures from Kurt and Goldie's decades-long courtship - scroll through to see them all now.
Kate Middleton Looks Totally at Ease While Drinking Guinness and Chatting With Soldiers
Kate Middleton got into the St. Patrick's Day spirit by enjoying a cold glass of Guinness during a visit to the Cavalry Barracks on Friday. Kate and Prince William met with soldiers of the 1st battalion Irish Guards after attending the St. Patrick's Day parade in London, where they presented the Guardsmen (as well as The Regimental mascot, a massive Irish Wolfhound) with shamrocks. Kate, who was clad in a bespoke dark green Catherine Walker coat, sipped on her beer while chatting with the soldiers; maybe they were trading Irish coffee recipes or discussing Ed Sheeran's new album?
It's kind of nice that Kate is getting her chance to kick back and enjoy a beer, as William appeared to do plenty of that during his recent controversial ski trip in the Swiss Alps. The boys-only getaway got the prince in a bit of hot water, as it was revealed that he took the trip in favor of attending an annual ceremony for Commonwealth Day in the UK with the rest of his family. Kate was reportedly "disappointed" in William's behavior during the trip, with a source telling Vanity Fair, "She thought his partying days and larking around with the boys was a thing of the past."
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