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 5 mai 2017
Of Course Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump Made a Cameo on Gossip Girl
It makes perfect sense that two of New York City's scions of real estate fortune would appear on a fictional series that chronicles that wealthy world. Back in 2010, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner appeared on an episode of The CW's Gossip Girl. Conceptually, it's not that surprising the couple made a cameo, but to see the scene now given their current positions in the White House is a bit jarring.
A Twitter user who goes by Mawwgie shared a short clip of the moment, and it immediately took off online.
Jared and Ivanka were on Gossip Girl in 2010 and I need everyone on the earth to know it http://pic.twitter.com/iHmY3F8wSl
- Margaret (@mawwgie) April 21, 2017
Kushner and Trump appear in the episode titled "Easy J" as guests at a New York Observer party, a newspaper that Kushner owns in reality. The main character Serena Van Der Woodsen's love interest Colin (played by Sam Page) introduces the couple.
"Thank you, Jared, and thank you, Ivanka, for marrying Jared and giving someone else the chance to win Bachelor this year," Colin jokes as he accepts the title.
Image Source: The CW
Predictably, the internet is in a frenzy over Trump and Kushner's brief acting stint. Although the cameo is arguably not an enormous endeavor in theater, they're literally playing the roles they were born to play.
Adam Scott's Reaction to Finally Meeting His Hero, Mark Hamill, Is So Freakin' Cute
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, a young Adam Scott invited his hero, Star Wars actor Mark Hamill, to his second birthday party. While sitting down on Jimmy Kimmel Live with temporary host Kristen Bell on Thursday night, the Big Little Lies star explained that although Mark never showed up, his love for the actor has never waned. Then, in the middle of their conversation, the Star Wars theme music blasted through the studio, and Luke Skywalker himself strolled on stage. If you need a reason to smile today, Adam's incredibly cute reaction to seeing him in the flesh for the first time should do the trick.
Gigi Hadid Found a Way For You to Wear Your Sports Bra to Dinner
The power of a sports bra extends beyond the gym, and Gigi Hadid just showed us a new way to style it. While out with sister Bella in NYC, the model wore a mesh bodysuit that showed off her black zip-up workout bra. Your go-to undergarment might be a lacy bralette, but yet again Gigi makes the case for a trendy athletic piece with street style pull.
Given how revealing her top half was, the star chose to stay covered on the bottom. She wore a green flannel button-down with matching pants and a pair of black pointy-toed boots - casual, but cute enough to wear to dinner with friends. If you haven't worn a sports bra under your bodysuit, we think it's time you try. Ahead, get inspired then shop the look.
Bombay Sapphire Gin Is Being Recalled For Having Double the Alcohol Content
Bombay Sapphire gin bottles are being recalled in Canada, and the reason has many people running to liquor stores to stock up! The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (also known as the Party Police) discovered that some bottles of Bombay Sapphire London Dry Gin contained almost double the alcohol content that is listed on the bottle. According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the batch of bottles affected were bottled before being diluted to the proper 40 percent alcohol content by volume and, instead, came out with 77 percent.
The bottles have a product code of "L16304" and have since been removed from stores. Bacardi, the distributor of Bombay gin products, has asked customers with these bottles to return them as soon as possible.
If you picked up a 1.14-liter bottle of Bombay Sapphire London Dry Gin recently, you should definitely check the label, but we'll let you decide what to do next.
Of Course Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump Made a Cameo on Gossip Girl
It makes perfect sense that two of New York City's scions of real estate fortune would appear on a fictional series that chronicles that wealthy world. Back in 2010, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner appeared on an episode of The CW's Gossip Girl. Conceptually, it's not that surprising the couple made a cameo, but to see the scene now given their current positions in the White House is a bit jarring.
A Twitter user who goes by Mawwgie shared a short clip of the moment, and it immediately took off online.
Jared and Ivanka were on Gossip Girl in 2010 and I need everyone on the earth to know it http://pic.twitter.com/iHmY3F8wSl
- Margaret (@mawwgie) April 21, 2017
Kushner and Trump appear in the episode titled "Easy J" as guests at a New York Observer party, a newspaper that Kushner owns in reality. The main character Serena Van Der Woodsen's love interest Colin (played by Sam Page) introduces the couple.
"Thank you, Jared, and thank you, Ivanka, for marrying Jared and giving someone else the chance to win Bachelor this year," Colin jokes as he accepts the title.
Image Source: The CW
Predictably, the internet is in a frenzy over Trump and Kushner's brief acting stint. Although the cameo is arguably not an enormous endeavor in theater, they're literally playing the roles they were born to play.
20 Chapter Books to Read Aloud With Your Kids
POPSUGAR has joined Thrive Global in celebration of Screen-Free Week, May 1-7, 2017. Check out our Digital Detox Challenge and inspiration for offline activities like this post.
Reading with your child is a great way to increase her interest in books and create a bonding experience. But sadly, 250 million children aren't learning basic reading skills, and today's International Literacy Day is shining a light on the issue. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, reading aloud daily to children helps build language acquisition and literacy skills. With every passing paragraph, you connect with your child through new worlds, crazy characters, and shocking plot twists. When they start to progress from picture books to more complex stories, the themes found in literature become even more vital to your kids' personal development. To ensure an amazing time during your readings, choose books that entertain both you and your child; when both reader and listener are fully engaged, the valuable lessons found in literature become much more captivating! Here are the very best chapter books to read as your kids grow.
Adam Scott's Reaction to Finally Meeting His Hero, Mark Hamill, Is So Freakin' Cute
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, a young Adam Scott invited his hero, Star Wars actor Mark Hamill, to his second birthday party. While sitting down on Jimmy Kimmel Live with temporary host Kristen Bell on Thursday night, the Big Little Lies star explained that although Mark never showed up, his love for the actor has never waned. Then, in the middle of their conversation, the Star Wars theme music blasted through the studio, and Luke Skywalker himself strolled on stage. If you need a reason to smile today, Adam's incredibly cute reaction to seeing him in the flesh for the first time should do the trick.
Jennifer Lopez Reveals How Leonardo DiCaprio Really Reacted to Her Carpool Karaoke Text
Of all James Corden's many Carpool Karaoke videos, few were as entertaining as his ride with Jennifer Lopez. In one of the segment's funniest moments, James sent a hilarious text to Leonardo DiCaprio from Jennifer's phone asking about where she could "cut loose" that night. His response - "You mean tonight, boo boo? Club wise?" - immediately went into the Carpool Karaoke Hall of Fame, and the "Feel the Light" singer revealed how Leo reacted to the prank while sitting down with James on Thursday night. "He wasn't mad at all! I was afraid he would be mad when it all came out, but he was so cool about it," she assured him. "I guess he calls every girl boo boo, I don't know."
Jennifer Lopez Reveals How Leonardo DiCaprio Really Reacted to Her Carpool Karaoke Text
Of all James Corden's many Carpool Karaoke videos, few were as entertaining as his ride with Jennifer Lopez. In one of the segment's funniest moments, James sent a hilarious text to Leonardo DiCaprio from Jennifer's phone asking about where she could "cut loose" that night. His response - "You mean tonight, boo boo? Club wise?" - immediately went into the Carpool Karaoke Hall of Fame, and the "Feel the Light" singer revealed how Leo reacted to the prank while sitting down with James on Thursday night. "He wasn't mad at all! I was afraid he would be mad when it all came out, but he was so cool about it," she assured him. "I guess he calls every girl boo boo, I don't know."
20 Chapter Books to Read Aloud With Your Kids
POPSUGAR has joined Thrive Global in celebration of Screen-Free Week, May 1-7, 2017. Check out our Digital Detox Challenge and inspiration for offline activities like this post.
Reading with your child is a great way to increase her interest in books and create a bonding experience. But sadly, 250 million children aren't learning basic reading skills, and today's International Literacy Day is shining a light on the issue. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, reading aloud daily to children helps build language acquisition and literacy skills. With every passing paragraph, you connect with your child through new worlds, crazy characters, and shocking plot twists. When they start to progress from picture books to more complex stories, the themes found in literature become even more vital to your kids' personal development. To ensure an amazing time during your readings, choose books that entertain both you and your child; when both reader and listener are fully engaged, the valuable lessons found in literature become much more captivating! Here are the very best chapter books to read as your kids grow.
Pippa Middleton Might Be the Bride, but She Just Wore the Perfect Wedding Guest Dress
shpWhether you're attending a friend's wedding, Pippa Middleton's wedding (lucky you), or just a really fancy dinner, there's no denying Pippa's Erdem dress is appropriate. The sleeveless jacquard design, slightly muted in color but jazzed up thanks to embellishments at the waist and neckline, is really quite a dream.
The bride-to-be stepped out on her way to the ParaSnowBall fundraiser in London wearing the midi with a glittering clutch and suede caged heels. Her engagement ring and tiny drop earrings added some extra sparkle and ensured party guests would look her way (in case they forgot May is her special month). Scroll for another look, then shop the exact Erdem number along with similar options.
This 3-Year-Old Girl's Choice For a School Picture Outfit Is Nothing Short of Heroic
My daughter got to pick what she wore for her school pictures. Daddy approves from aww
Kaylieann is not your average 3-year-old - she's a superhero and she knows it. When her father, Austin Steinbach, asked Kaylieann what she wanted to wear for school picture day she didn't have to think twice before deciding on a Supergirl costume. In a Reddit post, Austin explained that his daughter has always loved Superman, but because she is 75 percent deaf in both ears and cannot hear the letter "S," she calls her favorite superheros "Pooterman" and "Pootergirl."
Picture day can be a nightmare no matter how old your children are, but when Austin and his wife picked out three outfit choices for Kaylieann, she had a better option in mind. "She walked up, looked over each of her choices, turned and said 'Pootergirl!' And well, I couldn't argue with that answer," Austin said.
He explained that his daughter often wears other costumes to her preschool, sometimes dressing up as Spider Man, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Anna from Frozen, and with Halloween coming up, Kaylieann definitely has some big decisions to make!
Austin has already addressed next year's school photo outfit: "I think this one is going to be hard to beat."
This Frozen-Themed Promposal With Kristen Bell Is Both Adorable and Incredibly Awkward
Kristen Bell is a total pro at hosting late night television. On Thursday, the actress subbed in for Jimmy Kimmel, who stayed at home to be with his newborn son Billy. After delivering a hilarious opening monologue, the mom of two also helped one lucky high school student pull off an incredible Frozen-themed promposal. During a fake game of "The Fast and the Frozenest," one girl in the audience got a huge surprise when the masked Kristoff she was tasked with finding was actually one of her high school classmates. Kristen then channeled her famous character, Anna, to sing a revised version of "Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" to help him ask her to prom. With a grand gesture like that, she couldn't help but say yes.
This 3-Year-Old Girl's Choice For a School Picture Outfit Is Nothing Short of Heroic
My daughter got to pick what she wore for her school pictures. Daddy approves from aww
Kaylieann is not your average 3-year-old - she's a superhero and she knows it. When her father, Austin Steinbach, asked Kaylieann what she wanted to wear for school picture day she didn't have to think twice before deciding on a Supergirl costume. In a Reddit post, Austin explained that his daughter has always loved Superman, but because she is 75 percent deaf in both ears and cannot hear the letter "S," she calls her favorite superheros "Pooterman" and "Pootergirl."
Picture day can be a nightmare no matter how old your children are, but when Austin and his wife picked out three outfit choices for Kaylieann, she had a better option in mind. "She walked up, looked over each of her choices, turned and said 'Pootergirl!' And well, I couldn't argue with that answer," Austin said.
He explained that his daughter often wears other costumes to her preschool, sometimes dressing up as Spider Man, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Anna from Frozen, and with Halloween coming up, Kaylieann definitely has some big decisions to make!
Austin has already addressed next year's school photo outfit: "I think this one is going to be hard to beat."
This Frozen-Themed Promposal With Kristen Bell Is Both Adorable and Incredibly Awkward
Kristen Bell is a total pro at hosting late night television. On Thursday, the actress subbed in for Jimmy Kimmel, who stayed at home to be with his newborn son Billy. After delivering a hilarious opening monologue, the mom of two also helped one lucky high school student pull off an incredible Frozen-themed promposal. During a fake game of "The Fast and the Frozenest," one girl in the audience got a huge surprise when the masked Kristoff she was tasked with finding was actually one of her high school classmates. Kristen then channeled her famous character, Anna, to sing a revised version of "Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" to help him ask her to prom. With a grand gesture like that, she couldn't help but say yes.
Just in Case You Forgot Beyoncé Is Pregnant, It Says So on Her Shirt
In case you missed the memo that Beyoncé is pregnant with twins, the singer pointed it out by wearing a "Preggers" t-shirt. She shared photos of the cheeky tee on Instagram, where she's been documenting her maternity outfits. The outfit was more casual than her usual floor-sweeping gowns but nonetheless still trendy. She wore denim on denim with her t-shirt and a pair of comfy Converse.
It seems the demand for the graphic ASOS shirt is high, because it's not available to shop anymore. But for all you moms-to-be, we found several similar versions. Because let's be real, if you want to announce your pregnancy (or just have a Bey moment), you need this shirt.
37 Weekend Outfits to Have on Hand - Till the End of Time
So, it's the weekend. What's on deck? A 'grammable brunch, quick shopping trip, and night out - whether romantic or festive - all sound good to us. But hey, these are your days off, and it's time to unwind. While you'll want to stay chic, there's no denying that comfort's still a goal.
We've taken all occasions into account, along with the changing season, and come up with 37 outfits you'll absolutely need for a successful end to the week. Read on to make sure you've got the essentials to work this two-day wardrobe, and be sure to digest our styling tips.
OK, For Real - Would You Pay Over 1K For a Mood Ring?
Sure, I had mood rings in my childhood days, but they were mostly made of plastic and came from the machines that offer a random prize for a quarter. Most of the time, I even overlooked the mood ring section at Claire's or Limited Too, heading straight for the wiry chokers or tie-dye terry cloth headbands. But with '90s trends back in style, it was only a matter of time before these magical little accessories found their way back into our lives - just maybe not for $1,150.
Designer Leo Sachs-Michaels created one plated in 14K gold for her Brooklyn-based brand Leo Black, and the color-changing crystals are sourced from Canada. "My first mood ring was a thick, color-changing band with silver glitter inside, [and it] felt like a portal to my soul. There are many pieces I wish I had held on to and could wear, but they haven't aged well. I wanted women to have access to playful jewelry that they could connect with on a gut level," the jeweler explained to Well + Good.
Whether or not you think this particular piece is worth the high price point, the oval-shaped design is definitely gorgeous. And at the end of the day, if you're just psyched that mood rings are back, and you can't wait to stack them with the rest of your baubles, you can always pick up a more affordable version. Maybe not for a quarter, but it might be worth it to shell out the cash for a nostalgic ring that reflects your aura. Scroll to decide.
These Sexy Disney Princess Lingerie Sets Cost Less Than $31 Each
Trying to plan a special night for your Disney-loving significant other? Well, you could spend $25 on two tickets to Beauty and the Beast, $15 on snacks, and $10 per drink - or you could grab a supersexy princess-inspired lingerie set for much cheaper than that. We have a feeling that they'd prefer the latter! And if you're shopping for something to make yourself feel sexy solo, then these royally stunning sets are perfect, too.
This magical Disney princess lingerie line from Yandy is filled with under-$31 bra and panty sets inspired by Belle, Snow White, Jasmine, and more. Read on to see which princess you want to emulate in the bedroom!
37 Weekend Outfits to Have on Hand - Till the End of Time
So, it's the weekend. What's on deck? A 'grammable brunch, quick shopping trip, and night out - whether romantic or festive - all sound good to us. But hey, these are your days off, and it's time to unwind. While you'll want to stay chic, there's no denying that comfort's still a goal.
We've taken all occasions into account, along with the changing season, and come up with 37 outfits you'll absolutely need for a successful end to the week. Read on to make sure you've got the essentials to work this two-day wardrobe, and be sure to digest our styling tips.
OK, For Real - Would You Pay Over 1K For a Mood Ring?
Sure, I had mood rings in my childhood days, but they were mostly made of plastic and came from the machines that offer a random prize for a quarter. Most of the time, I even overlooked the mood ring section at Claire's or Limited Too, heading straight for the wiry chokers or tie-dye terry cloth headbands. But with '90s trends back in style, it was only a matter of time before these magical little accessories found their way back into our lives - just maybe not for $1,150.
Designer Leo Sachs-Michaels created one plated in 14K gold for her Brooklyn-based brand Leo Black, and the color-changing crystals are sourced from Canada. "My first mood ring was a thick, color-changing band with silver glitter inside, [and it] felt like a portal to my soul. There are many pieces I wish I had held on to and could wear, but they haven't aged well. I wanted women to have access to playful jewelry that they could connect with on a gut level," the jeweler explained to Well + Good.
Whether or not you think this particular piece is worth the high price point, the oval-shaped design is definitely gorgeous. And at the end of the day, if you're just psyched that mood rings are back, and you can't wait to stack them with the rest of your baubles, you can always pick up a more affordable version. Maybe not for a quarter, but it might be worth it to shell out the cash for a nostalgic ring that reflects your aura. Scroll to decide.
Best Gifts For 4-Year-Olds
Your 4-year-old is quite the little kid now. She has favorite toys and characters and probably picked out what she wants for the holidays from the pile of catalogs that already arrived. That said, these fun finds - including arts and crafts projects, racing cars, and magnetic building tiles - are sure to be hits when your preschooler opens them!
Miley Cyrus Will Win You Over With Her Wedding Dress
I don't know when or if Miley Cyrus is getting married. While Billy Ray Cyrus posted a photo that suggests she and Liam Hemsworth tied the knot, it hasn't been confirmed. Maybe Miley isn't even thinking about marriage. But in my imaginary world, she walks down the aisle in a pretty spectacular wedding dress. You see, ever since I was young, I looked at Miley as someone who represented versatility. She played two different characters on Hannah Montana, and my younger sister plastered posters of Miley all over her walls, some in which she was dressed up like Hannah, others in which she was just herself in jeans and a three-quarter-sleeved tee. But even when she was just being Miley, the actress and singer looked unique and a little bit quirky.
She's gone through many stages, but there has never been a time when Miley's paid attention to trends. During her rise to fame, she wore flares and cowboy boots, maybe because they were representative of where she came from: Franklin, TN. Post-breakup with Liam Hemsworth (the two have rekindled their relationship), Miley kind of went HAM with her wardrobe. And I liked it. What she wore, or didn't wear, was all a part of her personal revolution.
Miley's style at this point could basically be described as costume like. She dressed as a twerking teddy bear and supported LGBT rights in rainbows and big, furry coats. Then, at the 2015 Met Gala, the industry's elite gathered on the red carpet, but Miley stood alone in a cutout Alexander Wang gown. It ended up on some "worst dressed" lists, but I think it was my favorite outfit of the night. It didn't seem like Miley was trying to appear sexy or edgy but just to look like herself.
So now, as outsiders speculate on whether Miley and Liam got hitched, I can't help but to imagine her would-be bridal look. I doubt Miley Cyrus's wedding dress will be all white. It might be neon, a mix of colors, or come with an inflatable skirt. Miley might not wear a wedding dress at all, should she get married. Maybe she'll go naked. She did reveal on the Today show that she prefers to stay out of the fashion conversation: "I don't want people to talk about what I'm wearing. That's usually why I don't wear too much," she said.
One thing's for sure: if Miley Cyrus gets married, her look won't include a ballgown so glamorous that everyone focuses on the pretty (or crazy!) details. They won't be talking about The Dress, because god knows it won't be wearing her. It'll be all about Miley. Read on to see why we know Miley will hit it out of the park on her special day.
Best Gifts For 4-Year-Olds
Your 4-year-old is quite the little kid now. She has favorite toys and characters and probably picked out what she wants for the holidays from the pile of catalogs that already arrived. That said, these fun finds - including arts and crafts projects, racing cars, and magnetic building tiles - are sure to be hits when your preschooler opens them!
Miley Cyrus Will Win You Over With Her Wedding Dress
I don't know when or if Miley Cyrus is getting married. While Billy Ray Cyrus posted a photo that suggests she and Liam Hemsworth tied the knot, it hasn't been confirmed. Maybe Miley isn't even thinking about marriage. But in my imaginary world, she walks down the aisle in a pretty spectacular wedding dress. You see, ever since I was young, I looked at Miley as someone who represented versatility. She played two different characters on Hannah Montana, and my younger sister plastered posters of Miley all over her walls, some in which she was dressed up like Hannah, others in which she was just herself in jeans and a three-quarter-sleeved tee. But even when she was just being Miley, the actress and singer looked unique and a little bit quirky.
She's gone through many stages, but there has never been a time when Miley's paid attention to trends. During her rise to fame, she wore flares and cowboy boots, maybe because they were representative of where she came from: Franklin, TN. Post-breakup with Liam Hemsworth (the two have rekindled their relationship), Miley kind of went HAM with her wardrobe. And I liked it. What she wore, or didn't wear, was all a part of her personal revolution.
Miley's style at this point could basically be described as costume like. She dressed as a twerking teddy bear and supported LGBT rights in rainbows and big, furry coats. Then, at the 2015 Met Gala, the industry's elite gathered on the red carpet, but Miley stood alone in a cutout Alexander Wang gown. It ended up on some "worst dressed" lists, but I think it was my favorite outfit of the night. It didn't seem like Miley was trying to appear sexy or edgy but just to look like herself.
So now, as outsiders speculate on whether Miley and Liam got hitched, I can't help but to imagine her would-be bridal look. I doubt Miley Cyrus's wedding dress will be all white. It might be neon, a mix of colors, or come with an inflatable skirt. Miley might not wear a wedding dress at all, should she get married. Maybe she'll go naked. She did reveal on the Today show that she prefers to stay out of the fashion conversation: "I don't want people to talk about what I'm wearing. That's usually why I don't wear too much," she said.
One thing's for sure: if Miley Cyrus gets married, her look won't include a ballgown so glamorous that everyone focuses on the pretty (or crazy!) details. They won't be talking about The Dress, because god knows it won't be wearing her. It'll be all about Miley. Read on to see why we know Miley will hit it out of the park on her special day.
Prince Harry Comforts a Boy and His Sister Who Are Battling the Same Terminal Illness
One of the things we love most about Prince Harry is his genuine interest in the well-being of other people. While some public figures might shy away from dealing with serious topics such as illness, Harry doesn't think twice about actually physically embracing those who are struggling. That's exactly what he did this week when he reunited with a pair of siblings in a London hospital who are battling the same terminal illness. Harry, who met 6-year-old Ollie Carroll and his little sister, Amelia, at the WellChild Awards last year, spent time with the pair on Tuesday. They both suffer from Batten disease, a rare genetic childhood nervous system disorder that eventually renders patients unable to walk, see, eat, or breathe. Most children diagnosed with Batten do not live past age 12. Ollie and Amelia's two older brothers were tested for the disease and don't have it.
Ollie and Amelia's parents, Lucy and Mike, posted two touching photos of the prince and their children on Facebook, including one of Harry embracing Ollie, who has lost the ability to stand on his own. "For an hour Prince Harry sat with us talking and playing with our children, laughing and making memories," they wrote. "The very thing our children want the most in life [is] to be happy and having fun. We feel so much pride knowing that Ollie and Amelia are touching the lives of the people they meet, with their love and their strength. The love, the support, and the laughter within that treatment room on Tuesday will stay with us forever. From the bottom of our hearts we thank Prince Harry for his support, his time, and his kindness towards our family and our journey with Batten Disease. It was truly incredible to watch him with our children and to have the opportunity to talk with him about our journey."
Riverdale: Jason Blossom's Murderer Is Revealed
Warning: This post contains major spoilers from Thursday night's episode of Riverdale.
After formulating countless theories about who killed Jason Blossom all season long, we finally got an answer on Thursday's episode of Riverdale, and we're still recuperating. While FP Jones is originally arrested for the murder, it is later revealed that Jason's own father, Clifford Blossom, is actually the killer.
Turns out, the Blossoms have a pretty complicated past with the Coopers. Earlier this season, Hal Cooper reveals to Betty that their feud stems from a Blossom murdering their great-grandfather, but that is only half of the truth. Their great-grandfather was actually a Blossom, too! Yes, that means Polly Cooper and Jason Blossom are blood relatives and their relationship - and unborn twins - are a form of incest. We definitely had our suspicions about the elite family, but this is pretty insane. After learning that the two are planning to run off together and get married, Clifford loses it and kills his own son in cold blood.
The shocking news breaks when Betty finds a USB hidden in Jason's letterman jacket containing an incriminating video of Clifford taking a gun, pointing it at his son, and shooting him in the head. Betty immediately calls Cheryl and warns her to get out of the house. After shedding a few tears, Cheryl heads downstairs and confronts her father for his wrongdoing, but that's just the beginning. Moments before his arrest, the police find him hanging from a noose in the barn, surrounded by barrels and barrels of drugs. Looks like the Blossoms weren't just known for their sweet syrup after all. While the end result is definitely shocking, we should have seen it coming. Mädchen Amick (who plays Alice Cooper) hinted that there were several breadcrumbs about the killer's identity placed throughout the season.
The 1 Thing You Never Knew About Jackie Kennedy's Shoes, Until Now
All fashionable first ladies have style secrets, but Jackie Kennedy's might be the best kept. In a new memoir, her former assistant, Kathy McKeon, revealed Jackie customized all her shoes down to the very inch: a quarter inch to be exact.
"The bedroom walk-in closet was jam-packed with Madam's everyday clothing, all arranged according to color . . . more intriguing to me was the quarter-inch lift affixed to one heel on each pair of shoes, apparently meant to compensate for one leg being slightly shorter than the other," Katy said. "No one would have ever guessed."
That's true because a quarter inch is basically invisible to the naked eye. This surprising tidbit about the former first lady's footwear peaked our curiosity, so we uncovered past photos of her shoes. We needed a closer look! Scroll on to see the archived snaps.
The 1 Thing You Never Knew About Jackie Kennedy's Shoes, Until Now
All fashionable first ladies have style secrets, but Jackie Kennedy's might be the best kept. In a new memoir, her former assistant, Kathy McKeon, revealed Jackie customized all her shoes down to the very inch: a quarter inch to be exact.
"The bedroom walk-in closet was jam-packed with Madam's everyday clothing, all arranged according to color . . . more intriguing to me was the quarter-inch lift affixed to one heel on each pair of shoes, apparently meant to compensate for one leg being slightly shorter than the other," Katy said. "No one would have ever guessed."
That's true because a quarter inch is basically invisible to the naked eye. This surprising tidbit about the former first lady's footwear peaked our curiosity, so we uncovered past photos of her shoes. We needed a closer look! Scroll on to see the archived snaps.
10 Essential Steps to Take Before a Job Interview
Once you've snagged a job interview, the inevitable nerves that follow can make it difficult to focus on preparation. With a little bit of planning, though, you can bring your best business-ready self to the table. Follow these tips leading up to your big moment.
Several hours earlier:
1. It's important to have a healthy, substantial breakfast, of course, but it's just as important to eat well the night before so that you feel your best in the morning. Choose nutritious foods that fill and satisfy, and remember to limit caffeine to one or two servings. Chances are you'll already be feeling jittery, so put a cap on your coffee consumption.
2. Check the hourly forecast and grab any extra items that you may need: an umbrella, a raincoat, gloves, or suitable footwear, for instance.
3. Shoes are important: make sure your pair is both weather-appropriate and easy to walk in, because the last thing you want to do is trip your way through the office. The night before your interview, wear the selected shoes with socks for a couple hours to guarantee that they're broken in and comfortable.
4. Pack a small bag with all the hygiene necessities: floss, travel-size deodorant, a compact mirror, and any makeup essentials that you may want to use for a morning touch-up. Include a tin of mints and avoid gum in case you forget to throw it away beforehand.
One hour prior:
5. Call a friend for a quick conversation that will place you in a lighter frame of mind. Try not to talk about your interview. Instead, focus on carefree, upbeat topics that will put you at ease.
6. Turn up the volume to amp up your energy. Nobody wants to talk to a tired deadbeat, let alone hire one. Companies want lively, enthusiastic employees, so listen to a special pump-up playlist featuring your favorite fast-tempo songs. Let yourself loosen up so that your personality can shine.
With minutes to go:
7. Turn off your phone. It's a no-brainer, but nothing screams "unprofessional" quite like a vibrating purse - not to mention a loud, awkward ringtone.
8. Drink up: hydration is key to staying alert, so bring a full water bottle to sip throughout the day. Once you reach the office, kindly accept any drink offers from the receptionist in case your mouth dries out midinterview.
9. Take deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Anxious butterflies can cause headaches and hazy vision, so concentrate on breathing to clear your mind.
10. Smile. Attitude is everything, and positivity packs the greatest punch when it comes to boosting your appeal.
Have your own interview prep tips to share? Leave them in the comments.
DIY Colorful Hand-Dotted Tumblers
Gather your friends for a fun afternoon of crafting while making these colorful and unique hand-dotted tumblers. Along with being easy to create, the finished tumblers cost around $3 each to make. Pick up tumblers from your local resale shop or dollar store for a serious deal. Use enamel acrylic paints from your local craft store for longstanding color, and you're on your way to festive gifts for everyone.
What You'll Need:
- Red, yellow, blue, and white enamel acrylic paint
- Glass tumblers
- Paper towel
- Cotton swabs
- Sheet pan
- Parchment paper
Directions:
- Gather the materials for creating the dotted tumblers. Use an enamel or all-surface acrylic for long-standing results. You can purchase small containers at your local craft store for around $1 a bottle.
- Fold a sheet of paper towel in half and then in half again. Squeeze out a small dollop of each color of paint and then mix together to create additional colors for your tumblers. You can create different tints of colors by adding white. Or experiment with mixing the primary colors to create greens, oranges, and purples. Place a length of parchment paper on a sheet pan, and then place the glasses upside-down on the pan.
- Press the end of a cotton swab in one color of paint, and dot around the base of the glass. Continue dotting with other colors to create a first layer of dots, and then let dry while working on the rest of the glasses.
- Continue working on the other glasses, experimenting with color combinations. Once the first layer is dry, go back and add more colorful dots, working from the base of the glass to the sides - staying clear of the edges of the tumblers.
- Let the finished dotted tumblers dry for an hour, and then flip them over on the sheet pan. Place in a cold oven and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes to set the paint. Turn off the heat and allow the glasses to cool in the oven for an hour before handling.
- Give a set to someone special, or gift individually as party favors after a holiday gathering. Although the hand-dotted tumblers are ready for wear and tear, they will last longer when gently hand-washed and allowed to air dry.
See What Your Favorite Stars Wore to Their First Met Gala
As celebrities gear up for the Met Gala every year, they tend to delight in "remember when?" moments, posting flashbacks of their first time at the ball. For the Rei Kawakubo Comme des Garcons exhibit, some ladies even came "full circle," attending the event with the same designer they wore upon their debut (we're looking at you, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Hudson). Others, however, wore outfits off the beaten path - designs they might never have picked back in the early 2000s or late '90s. Scroll for a full rundown on what your favorite supermodels and stars wore for their first rodeo at fashion's prom night.
Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady's Apartment Might Be Even More Beautiful Than They Are
Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady seem to be over their $13.4 million condo in New York's Flatiron district. A year after they purchased it in 2013, they started renting it for a cool $40,000 a month. Page Six reported that the supermodel and quarterback upgraded to a $20 million apartment on a desirable high floor in 70 Vestry, a new luxury building in Tribeca. The A-listers' new French-limestone-covered building is understatedly elegant and boasts breathtaking views of the Hudson River. Building amenities are fitting of a five-star hotel and include an ultraprivate entrance to keep the prying eyes of the paparazzi at bay, extensive athletic facilities so Tom can stay in NFL shape (think an 82-foot-long indoor lap pool, squash court, and yoga studio, just to name a few), a posh lounge, a cafe, and a children's playroom. Take a look at the family's Tribeca digs in the pictures ahead.
New law aims to reduce drug deaths by encouraging people to report overdoses
The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act was introduced as a private member's bill last year by the Liberal MP for Coquitlam-Port Coquitlam, Ron McKinnon. On Thursday, It received royal assent.
See What Your Favorite Stars Wore to Their First Met Gala
As celebrities gear up for the Met Gala every year, they tend to delight in "remember when?" moments, posting flashbacks of their first time at the ball. For the Rei Kawakubo Comme des Garcons exhibit, some ladies even came "full circle," attending the event with the same designer they wore upon their debut (we're looking at you, Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Hudson). Others, however, wore outfits off the beaten path - designs they might never have picked back in the early 2000s or late '90s. Scroll for a full rundown on what your favorite supermodels and stars wore for their first rodeo at fashion's prom night.
Sienna Miller and Anne Hathaway Own the Picnic Bag About to Go Viral
Mansur Gavriel gave rise to fashion's cult-favorite bucket bag over three years ago, the original style sleek in black leather with a flashy red interior. Now we trust the brand for shoes and satchels in simple colorways that appease the minimalist in all of us. But for Spring 2017, Mansur Gavriel surprised us with a touch of gingham. The printed checker canvas comes in flamma or black in seven different silhouettes, and Anne Hathaway and Sienna Miller are already rocking two of our favorites.
Anne toted her mini volume clutch for an appearance on Good Morning America and Sienna's been wearing the soft elegant bag since February. Site availability shows that these designs are backordered from time to time (i.e. we didn't need much clarification that these are must-have items). Scroll to see Anne and Sienna flaunting the new accessory - we're calling it the "picnic bag" for obvious reasons - then shop every shape, size, and style of Mansur Gavriel's new cult obsession.
This $6 Rimmel Liquid Lipstick Is Better Than Most Designer Formulas
Glosses may be getting trendy again, but I'm not ditching matte liquid lipstick anytime soon. Just try to pry it out of my hands! I'm completely sold on the matte moment: it looks both sophisticated and edgy, and usually results in a durable, long-wearing application. So, as a flat-finished lipstick aficionado, I was psyched to get the exclusive first look at Rimmel London's newest formula, Stay Matte Liquid Lip Colour ($6).
My first observation was how easy it is to work with. Some matte liquid lipsticks dry lightning fast, leaving you mere seconds to perfect your application before your look sets. However, this mousse-like texture stays creamy and pliable for around five minutes (which I appreciated, as that generous amount of time felt damn luxurious). I used the precise, chisel-tip doefoot to line my lips first, then filled in using the broad side of the applicator.
Because the Stay Mattes don't dry insanely rapidly, its finish is far from being that superflat, dry, crusty finish that too many matte liquid lipsticks have. Instead, this leaves your pout with a velvety look. My lips reminded me of the beautiful silkiness of fresh rose petals when I tried Heartbeat, a fuchsia shade. Though that was my favorite, it comes in 14 hues, including neutrals, brights, and edgier tones like sapphire, slate, and black.
You should also know that even after several hours, this liquid lipstick feels majorly comfortable, a plus in a longwear formula. I have yet to put it to an aggressive test, but Rimmel London claims this lipstick will last for up to 12 hours, ideal for those of us so busy we forget to even brush our hair in the morning. Quite honestly, this is one of the best products of its kind that I've ever tried and outperforms many prestigious products, but at a fraction of the price.
By now, you're likely ready to stock up! Good news: the Stay Matte Liquid Lip Colour is officially launching in July, but Rimmel London is doing an early access, online pop-up sale with Ulta Beauty on May 6. At just $6 apiece, buying all 14 shades doesn't seem totally unreasonable. Keep reading to get a peek at them all, then shop the virtual pop-up on May 6 here.
Sienna Miller and Anne Hathaway Own the Picnic Bag About to Go Viral
Mansur Gavriel gave rise to fashion's cult-favorite bucket bag over three years ago, the original style sleek in black leather with a flashy red interior. Now we trust the brand for shoes and satchels in simple colorways that appease the minimalist in all of us. But for Spring 2017, Mansur Gavriel surprised us with a touch of gingham. The printed checker canvas comes in flamma or black in seven different silhouettes, and Anne Hathaway and Sienna Miller are already rocking two of our favorites.
Anne toted her mini volume clutch for an appearance on Good Morning America and Sienna's been wearing the soft elegant bag since February. Site availability shows that these designs are backordered from time to time (i.e. we didn't need much clarification that these are must-have items). Scroll to see Anne and Sienna flaunting the new accessory - we're calling it the "picnic bag" for obvious reasons - then shop every shape, size, and style of Mansur Gavriel's new cult obsession.
10 Selena Makeup Tutorials That Will Leave You in Awe
Selena always had a classic look: bold eyebrows, a red lip, and bangs. Her sister, Suzette, has said that Selena loved doing her own hair and makeup. "Even when Selena didn't have [makeup] on, when we were on the road, and we'd stop to eat, she'd always put her sunglasses on, and always have lipstick on," she said in an interview in 2016. It's no surprise that her iconic beauty looks are still being replicated over a decade after her death - check out this roundup of women who paid tribute to the late Tejana singer's signature look by re-creating it and showing us how it's done.
The Most Instagrammable and Gift-Worthy Tees For Moms
For us, scrolling through Instagram can truly be the gateway to the most amazing purchases, as so many people on the app - especially mamas - have enviable style. We went through some of our favorite feeds to do extensive - and very important - research, and made it our mission to find the cutest, fiercest, and most awesome mom t-shirts for you so that you can show the world how much you love your gig as "Mom."
Read through for some epic mom tees that you'll not only want for yourself, but that are also perfect for gifting to all of the moms in your life.
This $6 Rimmel Liquid Lipstick Is Better Than Most Designer Formulas
Glosses may be getting trendy again, but I'm not ditching matte liquid lipstick anytime soon. Just try to pry it out of my hands! I'm completely sold on the matte moment: it looks both sophisticated and edgy, and usually results in a durable, long-wearing application. So, as a flat-finished lipstick aficionado, I was psyched to get the exclusive first look at Rimmel London's newest formula, Stay Matte Liquid Lip Colour ($6).
My first observation was how easy it is to work with. Some matte liquid lipsticks dry lightning fast, leaving you mere seconds to perfect your application before your look sets. However, this mousse-like texture stays creamy and pliable for around five minutes (which I appreciated, as that generous amount of time felt damn luxurious). I used the precise, chisel-tip doefoot to line my lips first, then filled in using the broad side of the applicator.
Because the Stay Mattes don't dry insanely rapidly, its finish is far from being that superflat, dry, crusty finish that too many matte liquid lipsticks have. Instead, this leaves your pout with a velvety look. My lips reminded me of the beautiful silkiness of fresh rose petals when I tried Heartbeat, a fuchsia shade. Though that was my favorite, it comes in 14 hues, including neutrals, brights, and edgier tones like sapphire, slate, and black.
You should also know that even after several hours, this liquid lipstick feels majorly comfortable, a plus in a longwear formula. I have yet to put it to an aggressive test, but Rimmel London claims this lipstick will last for up to 12 hours, ideal for those of us so busy we forget to even brush our hair in the morning. Quite honestly, this is one of the best products of its kind that I've ever tried and outperforms many prestigious products, but at a fraction of the price.
By now, you're likely ready to stock up! Good news: the Stay Matte Liquid Lip Colour is officially launching in July, but Rimmel London is doing an early access, online pop-up sale with Ulta Beauty on May 6. At just $6 apiece, buying all 14 shades doesn't seem totally unreasonable. Keep reading to get a peek at them all, then shop the virtual pop-up on May 6 here.
10 Selena Makeup Tutorials That Will Leave You in Awe
Selena always had a classic look: bold eyebrows, a red lip, and bangs. Her sister, Suzette, has said that Selena loved doing her own hair and makeup. "Even when Selena didn't have [makeup] on, when we were on the road, and we'd stop to eat, she'd always put her sunglasses on, and always have lipstick on," she said in an interview in 2016. It's no surprise that her iconic beauty looks are still being replicated over a decade after her death - check out this roundup of women who paid tribute to the late Tejana singer's signature look by re-creating it and showing us how it's done.
The Most Instagrammable and Gift-Worthy Tees For Moms
For us, scrolling through Instagram can truly be the gateway to the most amazing purchases, as so many people on the app - especially mamas - have enviable style. We went through some of our favorite feeds to do extensive - and very important - research, and made it our mission to find the cutest, fiercest, and most awesome mom t-shirts for you so that you can show the world how much you love your gig as "Mom."
Read through for some epic mom tees that you'll not only want for yourself, but that are also perfect for gifting to all of the moms in your life.
Get Your Wardrobe Inspiration From the Magical City of Tulum
Tulum, Mexico, has quickly become a hotspot for fashion bloggers and wanderlust travelers looking for a vacation. From its pristine sandy beaches (that serve as the perfect Instagram backdrop) to the amazing local culture, it's no surprise that we're seeing this destination all over our social media feeds. But there's something else we've noticed when double-tapping those 'grams, and that's the amazing wardrobe it has inspired.
We've been seeing the city's love of ruffles, pom-poms, and tassels influence brands halfway across the world. Tularosa and Faithfull the Brand have perfectly captured the laid-back aesthetic with pieces that look like they're specifically made for vacationing on this little slice of beachy heaven. We're talking everything from off-the-shoulder tops, striped rompers, and colorful pom-pom-covered sandals - it's hard not to see the influence Tulum has had on some of Spring's biggest trends. From statement-making one-pieces to wicker basket bags, here's how you can steal the style without having to hop on a plane.
I Thought I Had Potty-Training Down, Then the Pee Hit My Pie Hole
This post written by John BellaVilla was originally published on one of our favorite sites, Fatherly.
I will never forget the taste. As soon as it hit my mouth, I instantly knew what it was. In all its slapstick, comical glory, I finally felt what it was like to have entered the territory of "will do anything for my kids." Potty-training was a whole new game I couldn't learn to play by reading books or watching YouTube videos. I had to learn the hard (wet) way.
I thought I already had basic knowledge of the ins and outs of being a new dad. I was prepared for anything my son would throw at me. For diaper changes, I knew a baby wipe needed to cover his mini-p to block the fountain-like stream of baby urine. During bath time, I had prior knowledge that babies and toddlers have zero regard for dry people outside of the bathtub, and it would be a huge mistake to wear anything but a poncho. Finally, during feeding times (yes, I sometimes refer to my sons as caged zoo animals), I had the insight and the Polaroids of my own high-chaired dinners from the early '80s to confirm that most of the food lands on the floor for the dogs or in mommy's hair.
However, I was not prepared for potty-training. Before embarking on this magical journey of sticky floors and overused laundry machines, my wife and I scoured every website, read every book, and bent the ears of as many past potty-trainers as we could. We had all the information one could gather on the subject. We were walking encyclopedias of pee. With all this data, we were sure to succeed, right? Well, it will be almost eight months and we have gone through more wee-wee pads than a puppy with an overactive bladder. I've scrubbed the equivalent of an Empire's State Building worth of flooring and have gagged more than . . . oh, never mind.
There is a bit of light at the end of this potty-training tunnel. My little man is pretty much accident-free at this point and only needs protection at night. It's like he dreams of putting out fires with his penis.
So, how did my kid's pee end up in my mouth? Well, there's absolutely nothing that stops a little boy from grabbing his little egg roll and changing the trajectory of his pee to the complete opposite direction of where you would like it to go. On this day in toddler history, we were using the solo cup method, or what I like to call the "Much Rather Be Playing Beer Pong" method. To encourage him to stand while peeing, I would take a little red solo cup you normally see at picnics and just let him pee into it. Clean up is easy, and it's also great for when we are out so I don't have to sanitize the hell out of any public bathroom we find ourselves in. But on this particular day, my coffee hadn't quite kicked in yet and my half-assing literally left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
I didn't quite have a full "cupping" and, mid-pee, he pulled up like he was trying to water plants on the ceiling. Too bad my face and my open mouth, perfectly shaped like a round target from shrieking "Nooooo," were the only things there to stop it. Or, in this case, catch it. To add insult to injury, as I ran out of the bathroom with a puzzled screech, trying to find the number for poison control in our area, my wife immediately started to follow me around and lecture me on how I should have held the cup. The only thing worse than a mouthful of warm pee is a mouthful from your not-so-warm wife. It's safe to say this wasn't the best of mornings in the BellaVilla household, but it's one I'll never forget.
I Thought I Had Potty-Training Down, Then the Pee Hit My Pie Hole
This post written by John BellaVilla was originally published on one of our favorite sites, Fatherly.
I will never forget the taste. As soon as it hit my mouth, I instantly knew what it was. In all its slapstick, comical glory, I finally felt what it was like to have entered the territory of "will do anything for my kids." Potty-training was a whole new game I couldn't learn to play by reading books or watching YouTube videos. I had to learn the hard (wet) way.
I thought I already had basic knowledge of the ins and outs of being a new dad. I was prepared for anything my son would throw at me. For diaper changes, I knew a baby wipe needed to cover his mini-p to block the fountain-like stream of baby urine. During bath time, I had prior knowledge that babies and toddlers have zero regard for dry people outside of the bathtub, and it would be a huge mistake to wear anything but a poncho. Finally, during feeding times (yes, I sometimes refer to my sons as caged zoo animals), I had the insight and the Polaroids of my own high-chaired dinners from the early '80s to confirm that most of the food lands on the floor for the dogs or in mommy's hair.
However, I was not prepared for potty-training. Before embarking on this magical journey of sticky floors and overused laundry machines, my wife and I scoured every website, read every book, and bent the ears of as many past potty-trainers as we could. We had all the information one could gather on the subject. We were walking encyclopedias of pee. With all this data, we were sure to succeed, right? Well, it will be almost eight months and we have gone through more wee-wee pads than a puppy with an overactive bladder. I've scrubbed the equivalent of an Empire's State Building worth of flooring and have gagged more than . . . oh, never mind.
There is a bit of light at the end of this potty-training tunnel. My little man is pretty much accident-free at this point and only needs protection at night. It's like he dreams of putting out fires with his penis.
So, how did my kid's pee end up in my mouth? Well, there's absolutely nothing that stops a little boy from grabbing his little egg roll and changing the trajectory of his pee to the complete opposite direction of where you would like it to go. On this day in toddler history, we were using the solo cup method, or what I like to call the "Much Rather Be Playing Beer Pong" method. To encourage him to stand while peeing, I would take a little red solo cup you normally see at picnics and just let him pee into it. Clean up is easy, and it's also great for when we are out so I don't have to sanitize the hell out of any public bathroom we find ourselves in. But on this particular day, my coffee hadn't quite kicked in yet and my half-assing literally left me with a bad taste in my mouth.
I didn't quite have a full "cupping" and, mid-pee, he pulled up like he was trying to water plants on the ceiling. Too bad my face and my open mouth, perfectly shaped like a round target from shrieking "Nooooo," were the only things there to stop it. Or, in this case, catch it. To add insult to injury, as I ran out of the bathroom with a puzzled screech, trying to find the number for poison control in our area, my wife immediately started to follow me around and lecture me on how I should have held the cup. The only thing worse than a mouthful of warm pee is a mouthful from your not-so-warm wife. It's safe to say this wasn't the best of mornings in the BellaVilla household, but it's one I'll never forget.
David Beckham's "Dinner of Choice" Will Have You Screaming "What the F?"
Image Source: Getty / David M. Benett
We never thought we'd see the day where we were actually questioning David Beckham's level of sexiness, but his most recent choice of dinner has us a little perplexed, to say the least. On May 2, Beckham celebrated his 42nd birthday alongside his adorable family, but it's not his Benjamin Button aging tactics that are raising eyebrows; it's his "dinner of choice" and the bizarre combination of foods.
Beckham shared a photo of his plate on Instagram, pictured below.
Image Source: Instagram user davidbeckham
We totally get it: it's his birthday and he can eat whatever he wants, but the visual of all the foods mashed up on the plate together has us feeling things about DB we never thought were possible. Let's break it down. According to Business Insider, Beckham's plate is filled with gammon (ham), a fried egg, coleslaw, two pineapple rings, mushy peas, baked beans, and potato wedges - quite the interesting combination.
When we think of Beckham's washboard abs and perfectly toned athletic physique, we assumed he preferred a protein-heavy meal or a huge rack of ribs for his birthday cheat dinner, so this array of mushy peas and pineapple rings definitely took us by surprise. Whatever floats your boat, Becks (and he definitely redeemed himself with this delicious-looking dessert below)!
Image Source: Instagram user davidbeckham
I'm French - and Everything My Country Stands For Is at Stake in Our Election
Liberty, equality, fraternity. Those are the values France was built on. But today, those values I cherish - those values my ancestors fought so hard for - are being trampled. They seem to have been reduced to meaningless yet powerful words that politicians have taken hostage in a bid to have us believe that they care for our freedom and our rights. And I have never felt so disheartened.
Today, we find ourselves in an undeniably strange and stressful situation. For the first time in decades, two outsiders have gone through the first round of elections, ousting the two political parties that have been governing for what seems like forever. One, neither from the right nor the left, is young, and some would argue inexperienced. Emmanuel Macron has graced numerous tabloid covers with his wife, was part of a government that failed to keep most of its promises, and is the brain behind one of the most contested laws passed in the past five years. We don't know much about him or his policies, and his past as a banker isn't reassuring.
The other is from the far right. Marine Le Pen has been in the political sphere for as long as I can remember and took her father's place as National Front leader in the stated goal of un-demonizing a party that is known for its negationist views. Everybody knows what she stands for, although she very cleverly has managed to blur some lines. "She isn't the monster everybody thinks she is," someone recently told me. "She's not a racist. She just wants us to be safe." But see, closing down the frontiers, evicting illegal immigrants, and imposing a ban on Muslim headscarves is racism, because trust me when I say that the borders will not be closed to my white, Catholic friends who live in other parts of the world. And no, it will not prevent terrorism. What it will do, however, is reinforce this feeling of hatred, threat, and fear that we already have toward the "other" when we should be helping those who are in need.
Although none of the choices we are being given are ideal, the answer lies in this one simple question: would you rather vote for someone who plays on the fears of a nation, is against LGBTQ rights, abortion, and Europe itself, who is a threat to the freedom of the press, and who will not fight for women's rights? Or for someone else?
If anything, these elections have shown me that my country is more divided than ever. The population doesn't trust its representatives and doesn't believe in what they have to offer. Politicians seem completely disconnected from our reality, at war with each other and using us only to gain personal power. The country of love and culture that the whole world used to look at with envy is slowly but surely turning into a country of hatred, violence, and corruption, and some of us - whether we are conscious of it or not - are pushing in that direction. Only a handful of people seem to be concerned by the fact that our democracy is at risk, and that is a problem.
Now, I am by no means a political expert, but I know that the extreme right isn't the answer. France is a free country, and I wish we wouldn't forget about all the sacrifices it took our people to get to where we are now. It is still in our power to prevent history from repeating itself. It is still in our power to make sure future generations will live in a world where love isn't a crime, where the press isn't suppressed, and where our own beliefs are not used as a weapon against us. It is time for us to make the right choice. It is time for us to make our voices heard, even if it is by voting for someone who doesn't represent our values. Refusing to go to the polling station isn't an option when we are so close to destroying everything our country stands for. Anything but the extreme right.
Get Your Wardrobe Inspiration From the Magical City of Tulum
Tulum, Mexico, has quickly become a hotspot for fashion bloggers and wanderlust travelers looking for a vacation. From its pristine sandy beaches (that serve as the perfect Instagram backdrop) to the amazing local culture, it's no surprise that we're seeing this destination all over our social media feeds. But there's something else we've noticed when double-tapping those 'grams, and that's the amazing wardrobe it has inspired.
We've been seeing the city's love of ruffles, pom-poms, and tassels influence brands halfway across the world. Tularosa and Faithfull the Brand have perfectly captured the laid-back aesthetic with pieces that look like they're specifically made for vacationing on this little slice of beachy heaven. We're talking everything from off-the-shoulder tops, striped rompers, and colorful pom-pom-covered sandals - it's hard not to see the influence Tulum has had on some of Spring's biggest trends. From statement-making one-pieces to wicker basket bags, here's how you can steal the style without having to hop on a plane.
I'm French - and Everything My Country Stands For Is at Stake in Our Election
Liberty, equality, fraternity. Those are the values France was built on. But today, those values I cherish - those values my ancestors fought so hard for - are being trampled. They seem to have been reduced to meaningless yet powerful words that politicians have taken hostage in a bid to have us believe that they care for our freedom and our rights. And I have never felt so disheartened.
Today, we find ourselves in an undeniably strange and stressful situation. For the first time in decades, two outsiders have gone through the first round of elections, ousting the two political parties that have been governing for what seems like forever. One, neither from the right nor the left, is young, and some would argue inexperienced. Emmanuel Macron has graced numerous tabloid covers with his wife, was part of a government that failed to keep most of its promises, and is the brain behind one of the most contested laws passed in the past five years. We don't know much about him or his policies, and his past as a banker isn't reassuring.
The other is from the far right. Marine Le Pen has been in the political sphere for as long as I can remember and took her father's place as National Front leader in the stated goal of un-demonizing a party that is known for its negationist views. Everybody knows what she stands for, although she very cleverly has managed to blur some lines. "She isn't the monster everybody thinks she is," someone recently told me. "She's not a racist. She just wants us to be safe." But see, closing down the frontiers, evicting illegal immigrants, and imposing a ban on Muslim headscarves is racism, because trust me when I say that the borders will not be closed to my white, Catholic friends who live in other parts of the world. And no, it will not prevent terrorism. What it will do, however, is reinforce this feeling of hatred, threat, and fear that we already have toward the "other" when we should be helping those who are in need.
Although none of the choices we are being given are ideal, the answer lies in this one simple question: would you rather vote for someone who plays on the fears of a nation, is against LGBTQ rights, abortion, and Europe itself, who is a threat to the freedom of the press, and who will not fight for women's rights? Or for someone else?
If anything, these elections have shown me that my country is more divided than ever. The population doesn't trust its representatives and doesn't believe in what they have to offer. Politicians seem completely disconnected from our reality, at war with each other and using us only to gain personal power. The country of love and culture that the whole world used to look at with envy is slowly but surely turning into a country of hatred, violence, and corruption, and some of us - whether we are conscious of it or not - are pushing in that direction. Only a handful of people seem to be concerned by the fact that our democracy is at risk, and that is a problem.
Now, I am by no means a political expert, but I know that the extreme right isn't the answer. France is a free country, and I wish we wouldn't forget about all the sacrifices it took our people to get to where we are now. It is still in our power to prevent history from repeating itself. It is still in our power to make sure future generations will live in a world where love isn't a crime, where the press isn't suppressed, and where our own beliefs are not used as a weapon against us. It is time for us to make the right choice. It is time for us to make our voices heard, even if it is by voting for someone who doesn't represent our values. Refusing to go to the polling station isn't an option when we are so close to destroying everything our country stands for. Anything but the extreme right.
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