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
Oh F*ck Yeah! Swearing During Exercise Makes You Stronger, Study Says
Potty-mouthed gymgoers, rejoice! Scientists just made quite the exciting discovery: swearing while you exercise apparently makes you stronger. Can we get a "f*ck yeah"?
Richard Stephens and his Keele University colleagues previously found that swearing helps with pain management (which explains why profanities seem to be the secret weapon for curing a stubbed toe, healing a funny bone collision . . . and dealing with kids). But the UK researchers decided to test out their hypothesis that vulgar words may pose actual physical benefits during a sweat session. So they gathered a handful of participants to partake in two different exercises while repeating either their favorite profanity or a neutral word.
The first round had 29 people cycling for a short yet intense session, and researchers discovered that those who swore were stronger than those who uttered a noncursing word. "On one measure of power in the first five seconds, it was a four percent increase in the swearing vs non swearing group, then across the full 30 seconds it was about two percent increase," Stephens told Newsweek. The second exercise involved 52 people doing a handgrip test, and it revealed that those who dropped the F-bomb repeatedly showed about an eight percent stronger grip compared to those who didn't.
Though those percentages aren't that high, you better believe it still makes us pretty damn stoked. Let those cuss words fly!
The Most Tasteful This Is Us-Themed Wedding Photo Shoot You'll Ever See
Wedding photographer Karen Rainier knew from the moment she watched "I Call Marriage," the wedding episode of This Is Us, that she had to re-create it. Though Rebecca (Mandy Moore) and Jack's (Milo Ventimiglia) special day takes place in the '70s, it actually looks incredibly modern. (Simplistic, retro-inspired weddings are all the rage these days, anyway.) Rainier enlisted Peter and Emily, a real couple who just happen to look like Mama and Papa Pearson, to pose for her. From the invitations to the car, Maryland-based Rainier truly thought of everything. Take a look!
What Is Everything, Everything to Amandla Stenberg and Nick Robinson? Love and McMuffins
If you've been searching for a movie to fill the void The Fault in Our Stars left in your heart, look no further than Everything, Everything. Based on Nicola Yoon's bestselling novel, the story centers around The Hunger Games actress Amandla Stenberg as a young teenager named Maddy who is anything but normal. Diagnosed with a severe immune deficiency as a baby, she has never left her house . . . until a handsome boy (Nick Robinson) moves in next door and changes her whole outlook on life, adventure, and love. With a killer soundtrack, two incredible leading actors, and one bitter twist, the adaptation (out May 19) is sure to become your latest obsession. POPSUGAR had a chance to talk with the film's stars and they discussed their instant connection, how they compare to their characters, and what everything, everything is to them.
POPSUGAR: What about the script really captured your attention?
Nick Robinson: First, I had the opportunity to sit down with Stella [Meghie, the director] before I read it, so I knew what she was thinking. The second thing is that it had a kind of dream-like quality, which I enjoyed.
Amandla Stenberg: Like Nick said, I enjoyed the whimsical quality and that there were moments of surrealism in it. But something that really captured my attention was the fact that this was a story about an interracial couple, and it was written that way, but race is never a conversation that is brought up in the film.
PS: How did you try to make the characters your own?
AS: I think that just happens when you try to play characters as naturally as possible. That's something that Stella really impressed upon us and ensured that we would do, that we would play it naturally.
PS: Speaking of playing the characters naturally, the chemistry feels so genuine. Did you two hit it off right away?
NR: Yeah, we did. We first met right before we left for Vancouver, and we both had a second of, "OK, I think we can do this." It was good to work with someone knowing that they have your back.
PS: How do you compare or differ from your characters?
AS: There are a lot of similarities between me and my character. I was just able to play a version of myself. There are a lot of things in common; I just think she's less experienced than I am because she's been stuck in her house for her entire life.
NR: I have a lot of similarities with Olly as well. I don't think I'm as romantic as he is, not quite, but he is a very curious person and someone who is always on the lookout for something to change his perception of things, and we share some of that curiosity.
PS: Amandla, this obviously isn't your first YA adaptation, and you have a few more in the works. Is that something you're drawn to?
AS: I'm drawn to it and it also seems to be what people really like making right now. It's just a coincidence that I'm working on a lot of things that are book-to-movie adaptations. That's where the good stories are right now.
PS: In Maddy's book review of The Little Prince, she says that love is everything, everything. What is everything, everything to you?
AS: I agree that it's love. Love makes the world go round.
NR: Yeah, that's true. Love or a sausage-egg McMuffin.
Oh My Cher! Each and Every Thing We Know About the Will & Grace Reboot
Back in January, NBC confirmed plans to bring Will & Grace back to TV for a limited 10-episode run. Try to suppress your skepticism; series creators David Kohan and Max Mutchnick are returning, along with director James Burrows. According to the reports, NBC had considered a revival in light of the viral reunion in 2016, where the cast enacted a nine-minute mini episode about the presidential race between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. Stay tuned, honey, we're sure more exciting details will emerge in the months to come!
The Cast
Sean Hayes, Eric McCormack, Debra Messing, and Megan Mullally are all returning! We have our fingers crossed for some exciting guest stars, but nothing has been announced yet.
The Time Jump
No, the reboot isn't picking up right after the final episode of the original series. It will be set in present day, and according to Debra Messing, "The amount of time that's passed will be addressed very quickly. I don't know exactly how, but it will be addressed."
The Pictures
Here we come! #WillAndGrace @nbc http://pic.twitter.com/0KGcqzyUJn
- Sean Hayes (@SeanHayes) May 5, 2017
The main four cast members have shared tons of pictures on social media. They appear to be as happy as we are that they're back together!
The Trailer
The Premiere Date
The limited series will debut in the Fall!
Oh F*ck Yeah! Swearing During Exercise Makes You Stronger, Study Says
Potty-mouthed gymgoers, rejoice! Scientists just made quite the exciting discovery: swearing while you exercise apparently makes you stronger. Can we get a "f*ck yeah"?
Richard Stephens and his Keele University colleagues previously found that swearing helps with pain management (which explains why profanities seem to be the secret weapon for curing a stubbed toe, healing a funny bone collision . . . and dealing with kids). But the UK researchers decided to test out their hypothesis that vulgar words may pose actual physical benefits during a sweat session. So they gathered a handful of participants to partake in two different exercises while repeating either their favorite profanity or a neutral word.
The first round had 29 people cycling for a short yet intense session, and researchers discovered that those who swore were stronger than those who uttered a noncursing word. "On one measure of power in the first five seconds, it was a four percent increase in the swearing vs non swearing group, then across the full 30 seconds it was about two percent increase," Stephens told Newsweek. The second exercise involved 52 people doing a handgrip test, and it revealed that those who dropped the F-bomb repeatedly showed about an eight percent stronger grip compared to those who didn't.
Though those percentages aren't that high, you better believe it still makes us pretty damn stoked. Let those cuss words fly!
'I didn't care very much whether I lived or died': ER doctor shares the moment that saved his life
Toronto emergency physician James Maskalyk who works in Toronto and Addis Ababa shares the moment that not only changed his life — but saved it.
6 Fascinating Documentaries About the Life and Death of Princess Diana
Despite how private the British royal family keeps their personal lives, they've remained the subject of tabloid scrutiny and public interest for centuries. Although Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, and more members of the family are certainly fascinating, it's Princess Diana who truly captured the hearts of people all over the world. Both before and after her tragic, untimely death in an August 1997 car accident, the royal's life has remained in the spotlight, and is now the subject of an upcoming HBO documentary to mark 20 years since her passing. Until it premieres, brush up on your Princess Diana history with all of the other documentaries about her life and death that have come out over the years.
The Most Tasteful This Is Us-Themed Wedding Photo Shoot You'll Ever See
Wedding photographer Karen Rainier knew from the moment she watched "I Call Marriage," the wedding episode of This Is Us, that she had to re-create it. Though Rebecca (Mandy Moore) and Jack's (Milo Ventimiglia) special day takes place in the '70s, it actually looks incredibly modern. (Simplistic, retro-inspired weddings are all the rage these days, anyway.) Rainier enlisted Peter and Emily, a real couple who just happen to look like Mama and Papa Pearson, to pose for her. From the invitations to the car, Maryland-based Rainier truly thought of everything. Take a look!
Oh My Cher! Each and Every Thing We Know About the Will & Grace Reboot
Back in January, NBC confirmed plans to bring Will & Grace back to TV for a limited 10-episode run. Try to suppress your skepticism; series creators David Kohan and Max Mutchnick are returning, along with director James Burrows. According to the reports, NBC had considered a revival in light of the viral reunion in 2016, where the cast enacted a nine-minute mini episode about the presidential race between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. Stay tuned, honey, we're sure more exciting details will emerge in the months to come!
The Cast
Sean Hayes, Eric McCormack, Debra Messing, and Megan Mullally are all returning! We have our fingers crossed for some exciting guest stars, but nothing has been announced yet.
The Time Jump
No, the reboot isn't picking up right after the final episode of the original series. It will be set in present day, and according to Debra Messing, "The amount of time that's passed will be addressed very quickly. I don't know exactly how, but it will be addressed."
The Pictures
Here we come! #WillAndGrace @nbc http://pic.twitter.com/0KGcqzyUJn
- Sean Hayes (@SeanHayes) May 5, 2017
The main four cast members have shared tons of pictures on social media. They appear to be as happy as we are that they're back together!
The Trailer
The Premiere Date
The limited series will debut in the Fall!
Pottermore Is Launching a Wizarding World Book Club, Because Dreams DO Come True
Coming June 2017 from Pottermore, the official Wizarding World Book Club awaits: https://t.co/WPHQnsarID #wwbookclub http://pic.twitter.com/l56HGSaoU1
- Pottermore (@pottermore) May 5, 2017
Is Snape truly a good guy when all is said and done? Do Ginny and Harry actually belong together? And is Dumbledore really related to Salazar Slytherin? All of the hours, days, and years you've spent debating Harry Potter theories with friends, family members, and complete strangers were merely practice for what's coming in June 2017.
Pottermore just announced a Wizarding World Book Club, where fans can join a free online group to "examine and debate every book in the Harry Potter series," which, to be honest, is something most of us Potterheads do semiprofessionally anyway - so now Bloomsbury and Scholastic (along with Pottermore) are graciously giving us a more official platform. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Pottermore is launching the book club to spark conversation with new and seasoned readers of the series alike.
A different theme from the Harry Potter stories will be discussed every week over on Pottermore's new Wizarding World Book Club Twitter account, @WWBookClub. People will read (or reread) a Harry Potter book each month, or, as the books get longer, every two months. Then everyone can join in for the discussion on Twitter and Pottermore.
"Our goal is to create a global community of Harry Potter readers who are communicating with each other as they are reading the same book, at the same time," says Henriette Stuart-Reckling, global digital director of Pottermore. This is something fans have been begging for over the past two decades, and now our dreams have come true - just like magic.
Image Source: Warner Bros.
10 Blogger-Approved Dresses That'll Work For Every Wedding You Attend
Bloggers wear ready-to-shoot outfits on the daily, so when it comes to weddings it's no different. They will find the prettiest dresses with maximum 'gramming potential, whether that be a floral gown or something romantic and lacy. With wedding season in full swing, they've already given us plenty of dress inspo. All you need to do is take a quick glance at their outfits below and then shop for "the one."
72 Hours in Dubai: Desert Decadence in Just 3 Days
As a habitual red-eye-flight nonsleeper and notorious plane germophobe, traveling 45 hours to spend just three days in Dubai felt daunting at best and insane at worst; as with many other Americans, traveling outside of North America for under a week can often seem difficult to justify. But due to the difficulty of navigating not one but two freelance work schedules, four years of destination ADD (yes, four years of planning went into this father-daughter 21st birthday trip I took at age 25), and an abundance of excuse-making, we had to commit: we agreed on Dubai, found a time slot that worked for us both, and booked it before we thought too much about the trip length.
Turns out, the trip of a lifetime requires just three days in the Middle East's Versailles and some careful planning. Read through the slideshow to find out how to rack up every bit of this oasis's legendary desert decadence in just 72 hours.
10 Blogger-Approved Dresses That'll Work For Every Wedding You Attend
Bloggers wear ready-to-shoot outfits on the daily, so when it comes to weddings it's no different. They will find the prettiest dresses with maximum 'gramming potential, whether that be a floral gown or something romantic and lacey. With wedding season in full swing, they've already given us plenty of dress inspo. All you need to do is take a quick glance at their outfits below and then shop for "the one."
Another Day, Another Photo of a Bunch of Men Celebrating an Assault on Women's Health
The House passed the American Health Care Act on May 4, producing yet another totally unsurprising and objectively clueless gallery of photographs. You don't have to be a Where's Waldo? aficionado to see what is missing from the GOP's Rose Garden celebration after the vote on May 4.
Surprise! Where are the women who pushed for the passing of a bill that deems sexual assault, depression, and C-sections preexisting conditions? According to a wide shot of the press conference, there were about five women (who seem to have been pushed to the front for visibility) present at President Donald Trump's press conference announcing the bill's passage through the House. Men, in fact, made up about 92 percent of the 217 "yes" votes to approve the GOP bill. It's also worth noting that everyone in the photo appears to not have a disability, a particularly cruel reminder that people with disabilities would no longer be covered by Medicaid expansions permitted by Obamacare.
Despite never actually experiencing foreign phenomena like pregnancy, periods, and breast exams, the men of the GOP seem to consider themselves experts in deciding which women's health issues constitute necessary coverage. In fact, it's quite apparent that the House Republicans' only priority is repealing Obamacare, no matter if they have actually read the proposed bill, if they know how many people will lose coverage with its passing, or how much the Congressional Budget Office predicts it will cost. Nope, that doesn't matter.
Needless to say, if the American Health Care Act does make it through the upper chamber (thankfully, it's likely to encounter some pushback from Republican Senators), the House Republicans have one thing to look forward to: getting unseated. Just 24 hours after the bill officially went to vote, Democratic activist group Swing Left raised $400,000 for whoever elects to run against vulnerable Republican representatives who voted in favor of the proposal.
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.
Selena Gomez Just Won the Daughter of the Year Award For This Adorable Present
Let's just get this out of the way by saying Selena Gomez just won the daughter of the year award for her latest Instagram post. The singer, who earlier this week walked the Met Gala red carpet in a gorgeous dress by Coach, posted the most adorable picture of herself with mother Mandy Teefy.
As an early Mother's Day present, Selena gifted her mother with a custom Coach handbag with her initials monogrammed on its tag. We know Selena is a fan of anything customizable since her Met Gala purse also featured a secret message written on the bottom.
Since Selena's the brand ambassador for Coach, we're assuming it cost her absolutely nothing, but still, it's the thought that counts and we're fans of anything you can personalize. Have a look at the adorable moment ahead and shop similar versions for your mom (or for yourself) ahead.
Selena Gomez Just Won the Daughter of the Year Award For This Adorable Present
Let's just get this out of the way by saying Selena Gomez just won the daughter of the year award for her latest Instagram post. The singer, who earlier this week walked the Met Gala red carpet in a gorgeous dress by Coach, posted the most adorable picture of herself with mother Mandy Teefy.
As an early Mother's Day present, Selena gifted her mother with a custom Coach handbag with her initials monogrammed on its tag. We know Selena is a fan of anything customizable since her Met Gala purse also featured a secret message written on the bottom.
Since Selena's the brand ambassador for Coach, we're assuming it cost her absolutely nothing, but still, it's the thought that counts and we're fans of anything you can personalize. Have a look at the adorable moment ahead and shop similar versions for your mom (or for yourself) ahead.
What Will the Game of Thrones Spinoff Be About? We Have Some Ideas
When you have a show like Game of Thrones that has met such monumental success, it means the moment the end of the show is in sight people will start talking about a spinoff. There's already been confirmation from HBO that a spinoff (or FOUR) is coming, so don't worry - it's going to happen. Now all that's left to reveal is what the new series will be about. As Melisandre would probably say if Westeros had internet, "The night is dark and full of theories."
1. A Prequel Series
It's not exactly a spinoff, but this option seems likely (it's the one idea that's already been brought up by HBO) and no surprise - a prequel to season one of Game of Thrones would have a ton of material to work with. It would also likely include events that have been referenced on the show, like Robert Baratheon's rebellion and Jaime Lannister killing the Mad King. It would also be an opportunity to both bring back characters we know (like Ned and Catelyn Stark) and introduce some we've only heard about, like Rhaegar Targaryen, the guy who started it all by falling for Lyanna Stark.
This show wouldn't necessarily have a happy ending - we know how the Rebellion ends. Lyanna Stark dies, Rhaegar dies, and poor baby Jon Snow is doomed to a life of shame as a bastard. Then again, is that any less depressing than how Game of Thrones usually goes? Eh, we'd love it all anyway.
2. A Sequel Series
The specific events of this spinoff option are a bit harder to predict, since technically we don't know how Game of Thrones will end, but let's face it: does it seem likely that EVERY detail will be nicely wrapped up? Perhaps a sequel will follow the new king (or queen) of the Seven Kingdoms and the fallout from whatever events lead them there. Or perhaps there will be even more questions raised by seasons seven and eight of Game of Thrones that could open up possibilities for a sequel. Only time will tell.
3. Very Early Westeros History
Thanks to Bran Stark, we've gotten some references in the show to what went on in Westeros way back in the day - before Robert's Rebellion, before anyone we know on the show was born, and before their great-great-grandparents were even born. The Children of the Forest, the First Men, and the beginning of the White Walkers are all part of the early history of Westeros, and those stories would be enough for their own whole show. Sure, there would probably be fewer elaborate costumes and grand cities, but it would be interesting to know more about how the wheels were set in motion to build the world of Game of Thrones that we know.
4. The Tales of Dunk and Egg
With all the hype around George R.R. Martin working on The Winds of Winter, you might be surprised to learn that A Song of Ice and Fire isn't the author's only Westeros-related work. His series The Tales of Dunk and Egg is set decades before A Game of Thrones and centers on a knight named Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg. Egg is just a nickname, though - this squire later becomes none other than King Aegon V Targaryen, ruler of the Seven Kingdoms and the younger brother of Aemon Targaryen. Game of Thrones fans already know the name Aemon Targaryen; when Jon Snow meets him at the Wall, he is known as Maester Aemon. There are already multiple books in this series and it isn't finished yet, so there's plenty of material to work with for a spinoff.
5. A House-Centric Spinoff
Want to know more about Valyria, that dilapidated Targaryen city that Tyrion and Jorah sailed through on their way to Meereen in season five? Or what Jaime and Cersei's mother, Joanna, was like? Or what it was like for the three wildly different Baratheon brothers - Robert, Renly and Stannis - to grow up together? A spinoff centered on the history, relationships, and, of course, scandals of one specific house could give more backstory to people and places we've only gotten hints about in Game of Thrones.
6. A Character-Centric Spinoff
It would be fun to follow one character after the events of the Game of Thrones series finale. Where does Arya Stark fit into the future of Westeros? Or Brienne of Tarth? Or the great (and frankly underused) Podrick Payne? This kind of spinoff could even focus on a very minor character's adventures during the series. Who wouldn't want to know more about how Lyanna Mormont comes to be the biggest tiny badass in Westeros? And everyone's favorite Baratheon bastard Gendry is returning this season; we need more details about what he's been up to all this time, right?
We'd Be on Board With 13 Reasons Why Season 2 If It's About This
Netflix has us totally conflicted about a second season of 13 Reasons Why, which they are apparently going for (though it's not totally confirmed yet). On the one hand, the story is so much better as a one-off, but on the other hand, I wouldn't hate being reunited with the suddenly famous cast. The biggest challenge is making a second season work. What will it be about? We already have a few ideas for where the show can go in another installment, but I actually have one idea that I think would work best without sacrificing the integrity of the original iteration. And it's this: season two should be about Alex's struggle.
To recap: Alex is one of Hannah's reasons for killing herself. By the end of season one, after all the grief of being part of her death, the loss of Jessica as his girlfriend, and the obvious depression expressed throughout the time we know him, Alex attempts to take his own life. There's a major irony in the fact that Hannah explicitly tells her tormenters that they missed all the signs - and then the same community, and we as the audience, miss all the signs about Alex.
Thus: season two could go back through the exact same time frame we've already seen, but through a totally different perspective: Alex's. We'd learn more about his home life and how having a strict cop for a father has influenced him. We'd find out where his self-esteem had to be to leave his integrity behind and write that list, then start hanging out with the kind of guys he's not. It would be our chance to see another view of the characters we already knew, but in a fresh way. By the way, this is one of the only scenarios that would make sense with the news that Hannah would still be in season two.
The series was a more fleshed-out version of the book, with an opportunity to develop the characters more, so this direction would just be building on that same theme. Of course, the first season leaves Alex's fate open-ended, so this means Alex would survive, which star Miles Heizer told The Hollywood Reporter he thinks is what happens. Heizer himself gives another reason Alex's story deserves a second look, saying, "That's another subject that's very rarely shown onscreen and is probably a lot more common than people think it is. People attempting to take their lives and it not happening, I'm sure that will bring a crazy set of issues. It would be interesting to go into that." Alex surviving would let the show teach a different, equally valid lesson.
After a Student With Autism Lost His Headphones, His Classmates Made This Kind Gesture
Gavin Ramsay is a 17-year-old high school student with autism who has learned to use his headphones to manage the everyday commotion he may encounter. One day, however, Gavin was rushing out of a class when he mistakenly left his headphones behind. Sadly, they were gone when he went back to retrieve them.
In an interview with CBC News in Manitoba, Canada, Joni-Lea Jessica Ramsay spoke about how worried she was for her son after the incident. She explained that the headphones were an expensive pair given to him by his aunt. They were "a huge part of his life," said Joni-Lea. While his mom worried, Gavin had a mature response. "Whoever took them needed them more," he said.
Back at school, a teacher told students to keep a lookout for the missing headphones in question. Instead, several students raised money to gift Gavin with a brand-new pair for his birthday. Gavin described the gesture as being "truly humbling."
Upon finding out, Joni-Lea was overcome with emotion and gratitude. She said, "I think the biggest thing for Gavin was he really, really couldn't believe that kids did this for him. . . . This really made him feel like he was a part of something, a part of a group of caring people that really, really actually cared for him." Adding, "I'd like to thank all of these students and the teachers for making my son's world better again."
If You Love Your Mom, Buy Her This Doughnut Bouquet on Mother's Day
Traditional flowers are so last year. This year, show your mother just how much you love her with this yummy doughnut bouquet from Tim Hortons. The best part is you won't have to break the bank for this sweet treat. The edible bouquet will be available at select Tim Hortons locations in the US on Mother's Day for just $8. That means you should buy your loving mama more than one, because she deserves it!
Each bite-size doughnut comes in a one of 24 flavors and is slid onto a skewer to give the appearance of an actual flower bouquet. There's also ribbon, tissue paper, and a special Mother's Day gift box that will make your mother feel like the special lady she is. Sounds like the perfect Mother's Day gift, if you ask us!
After a Student With Autism Lost His Headphones, His Classmates Made This Kind Gesture
Gavin Ramsay is a 17-year-old high school student with autism who has learned to use his headphones to manage the everyday commotion he may encounter. One day, however, Gavin was rushing out of a class when he mistakenly left his headphones behind. Sadly, they were gone when he went back to retrieve them.
In an interview with CBC News in Manitoba, Canada, Joni-Lea Jessica Ramsay spoke about how worried she was for her son after the incident. She explained that the headphones were an expensive pair given to him by his aunt. They were "a huge part of his life," said Joni-Lea. While his mom worried, Gavin had a mature response. "Whoever took them needed them more," he said.
Back at school, a teacher told students to keep a lookout for the missing headphones in question. Instead, several students raised money to gift Gavin with a brand-new pair for his birthday. Gavin described the gesture as being "truly humbling."
Upon finding out, Joni-Lea was overcome with emotion and gratitude. She said, "I think the biggest thing for Gavin was he really, really couldn't believe that kids did this for him. . . . This really made him feel like he was a part of something, a part of a group of caring people that really, really actually cared for him." Adding, "I'd like to thank all of these students and the teachers for making my son's world better again."
Stunning Photo of a Mom's First Hug With Baby Conveys Universal Feelings
Childbirth comes with a roller coaster of emotions, but for most moms who get to hold their baby right after they're born, the feelings are indescribable. However, one powerful birth photo taken by Miami photographer Zura Lagarde completely captures that universal joy and disbelief in holding your child for the very first time.
In the stunning photo, a new mom is seen clutching her child to her chest while tears stream down her face. Zura, who was acting as a midwife assistant for this particular birth, managed to whip out her camera at just the right moment to capture beautiful snaps that this mama can cherish forever. "I love being able to attend births, it's just my favorite thing to do," Zura said on her Instagram. "To see a new life entering in to this world it's just the biggest gift/blessing for my soul and my heart."
'Wild West' mental health apps offer both gold and 'digital snake oil'
Mental health apps hold the potential to help Canadians in need find proper care, but psychiatrists caution that many aren't of high quality.
Kristen Bell to the Girl Who Broke Charlie Hunnam's Heart: "F*ck You"
If you weren't already a Charlie Hunnam fan, then his interview with Kristen Bell will change your mind. And if you're already a fan? Good luck, because your heart is about to burst watching him talk about his 13-year-old heartbreak and the time he saved his cat. Kristen stepped in to host Jimmy Kimmel Live on Thursday, and the actress asked Charlie about everything from his Sons of Anarchy days to how he got into shape for his new movie, King Arthur. (She also did a favor for fans everywhere by pointing out that, yes, he smells good.) The two of them have hilarious chemistry, so somebody definitely needs to cast them in a movie together ASAP, please and thank you.
Stunning Photo of a Mom's First Hug With Baby Conveys Universal Feelings
Childbirth comes with a roller coaster of emotions, but for most moms who get to hold their baby right after they're born, the feelings are indescribable. However, one powerful birth photo taken by Miami photographer Zura Lagarde completely captures that universal joy and disbelief in holding your child for the very first time.
In the stunning photo, a new mom is seen clutching her child to her chest while tears stream down her face. Zura, who was acting as a midwife assistant for this particular birth, managed to whip out her camera at just the right moment to capture beautiful snaps that this mama can cherish forever. "I love being able to attend births, it's just my favorite thing to do," Zura said on her Instagram. "To see a new life entering in to this world it's just the biggest gift/blessing for my soul and my heart."
Kristen Bell to the Girl Who Broke Charlie Hunnam's Heart: "F*ck You"
If you weren't already a Charlie Hunnam fan, then his interview with Kristen Bell will change your mind. And if you're already a fan? Good luck, because your heart is about to burst watching him talk about his 13-year-old heartbreak and the time he saved his cat. Kristen stepped in to host Jimmy Kimmel Live on Thursday, and the actress asked Charlie about everything from his Sons of Anarchy days to how he got into shape for his new movie, King Arthur. (She also did a favor for fans everywhere by pointing out that, yes, he smells good.) The two of them have hilarious chemistry, so somebody definitely needs to cast them in a movie together ASAP, please and thank you.
This Weighted Blanket Is "Like Advil PM For Your Whole Body"
Anxiety and insomnia are common problems these days, and while you could treat the problems by taking one of the many of drugs on the market, you can also try simply wrapping yourself in a weighted blanket. The deep pressure these blankets produce is akin to being embraced in a hug, which is said to stimulate the production serotonin and endorphins, naturally calming chemicals in the body. As a result, you'll fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Sounds incredible, right? There are a handful of weighted blankets on the market already (including the Sleep Tight, Mosaic, SensaCalm, and Magic Blanket), but a brand called Gravity just launched a Kickstarter campaign to release the most innovative and luxurious weighted blanket model yet ($279 retail, as low as $179 Kickstarter early order).
"Taking design cues from renderings of gravity planes, we used the same grid-like pattern to evenly distribute the crafted poly pellets to specifically target pressure points throughout your body," the company says. To achieve the perfect 7-12 percent body weight to blanket weight ratio, it's offering three different pound options made from nontoxic, food grade filling. And unlike many of its competitors, Gravity's cover is a plush, ultrasoft fleece. The only downside? Production doesn't happen till this Summer, and you'll have to wait until early Fall to receive your blanket. Until then, soothe yourself to sleep by designing your bedroom to combat anxiety.
Karma Alert: Judge Rules That Couple Denied a Marriage License by Kim Davis Can Sue Her
Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis is back in the spotlight again, but this time for some news she's probably not happy about. On May 2, three judges ruled that the gay couple whom she denied a marriage license are free and clear sue her for damages.
This story begins with David Ermold and David Moore, who originally sued Davis, a Rowan, KY, county clerk for denying them a marriage license. Davis refused to give them one, citing religious grounds. The case was dismissed by Judge David Bunning, who believed that an executive order from Kentucky Governor Matthew Bevin made the case unnecessary. The executive order stated that a marriage license didn't require the name of the county clerk. However, three judges on the US sixth circuit of appeals have now thrown the case back to Bunning, stating that Ermold and Moore weren't looking for "an injunction - they sought only damages."
Davis, who originally spent five days in jail for refusing to issue marriage licenses to gay couples, will now have to face up to the lawsuit. When she first refused to issue marriage licenses, the far right painted her as a hero. Rallies were held in her honor as she was in jail, and when she was released, elated crowds greeted her.
Ermold and Moore's lawyer believes they will win. "We're going to get damages, I'm sure of that," Gartland said to The Lexington Herald-Leader. "There's been no discovery yet. I can't imagine it's a huge amount of damages, but there are damages."
The 8 Dresses Every Woman Should Own
Trends may come and go, but these dresses will always be a mainstay in our closets. Sure, we may gravitate toward different styles depending on the season and "what's in," but if you stick to these eight essential silhouettes, you'll never be without the right look for any occasion - and we've thought of them all.
From a formal dress (yes, we all need one!) to a work standby, you'll be the girl who has it all just by having these few pieces. Scroll on to see what to shop and why it's worth it.
How the Picnic Basket Became Spring's Must-Have Bag
You may have scrolled through your feed lately and thought, is there like a Fashion Week happening over a picnic somewhere? No, the fashion world isn't meeting for lunch in the park, but they're definitely dressing like it. Swapping trusty leather bags for raffia and wicker, bloggers and fashion insiders are embracing one of Spring's biggest handbag trends, though it's actually been around for a while.
You can trace the look back to Jane Birkin, whose iconic look included a chic wicker basket that she paired with everything from her famous flares to chic day dresses. Sure enough, the look now is a nod to that Parisian cool. So, don't overthink it. Read on to see how the trend's being reincarnated by the fashion crowd, then shop your own wicker bag to wear with anything you want.
The 8 Dresses Every Woman Should Own
Trends may come and go, but these dresses will always be a mainstay in our closets. Sure, we may gravitate toward different styles depending on the season and "what's in," but if you stick to these eight essential silhouettes, you'll never be without the right look for any occasion - and we've thought of them all.
From a formal dress (yes, we all need one!) to a work standby, you'll be the girl who has it all just by having these few pieces. Scroll on to see what to shop and why it's worth it.
Couple With 5 Biological Kids Adopts 6 Siblings, and They're the Cutest Family
With two parents and five biological children, the Sanders family was already pretty big, but they decided there was still room for more love. So they adopted six siblings at the same time, making for one big, happy family of 13.
Ohio residents Christina and Christopher Sanders took the six children into their home as foster parents back in 2014. Since then, Coby, 16, Christan, 14, Caleb, 13, Cayley, 12, Carson, 10, and Chloe, 9, have been living in their six-bedroom home, and the Sanders kids have welcomed them with open arms. When the parents decided it was time to make things official, the six siblings were ecstatic and, most importantly, grateful to join their family without getting split up.
Thirteen-year-old Caleb told the Cincinnatti Enquirer, "I would not know where I'd be right now if it wasn't for the Sanders. We (were) having a rough life, before." His younger sister, 12-year-old Cayley, could barely contain her excitement on the day of their adoption. "I'm happy that I'm here because everything is wonderful," she said. "This is just what I wanted."
Watch the video above to hear more about the adorable Sanders family.
Everyone Is Reliving Their Last Breakup Thanks to Halsey's New Song
Halsey may be looking to take over Adele's title of queen of breakup songs. The singer released a new track called "Eyes Closed" on Friday, and damn. It's sad as hell. It's a gorgeous melody, and the lyrics will hit home if you've ever struggled with a relationship . . . or 10. "Now if I keep my eyes closed, he looks just like you / But he'll never stay, they never do / Now if I keep my eyes closed, he feels just like you / But you've been replaced / I'm face to face with someone new." Twitter has responded with a barrage of memes, because it's just impossible to be OK after listening.
Me when @halsey said "if I keep my eyes closed, he looks just like you. But he'll never stay, they never do" #EyesClosed http://pic.twitter.com/dAduATtBHP
- salma (@salmuh) May 4, 2017
Couple With 5 Biological Kids Adopts 6 Siblings, and They're the Cutest Family
With two parents and five biological children, the Sanders family was already pretty big, but they decided there was still room for more love. So they adopted six siblings at the same time, making for one big, happy family of 13.
Ohio residents Christina and Christopher Sanders took the six children into their home as foster parents back in 2014. Since then, Coby, 16, Christan, 14, Caleb, 13, Cayley, 12, Carson, 10, and Chloe, 9, have been living in their six-bedroom home, and the Sanders kids have welcomed them with open arms. When the parents decided it was time to make things official, the six siblings were ecstatic and, most importantly, grateful to join their family without getting split up.
Thirteen-year-old Caleb told the Cincinnatti Enquirer, "I would not know where I'd be right now if it wasn't for the Sanders. We (were) having a rough life, before." His younger sister, 12-year-old Cayley, could barely contain her excitement on the day of their adoption. "I'm happy that I'm here because everything is wonderful," she said. "This is just what I wanted."
Watch the video above to hear more about the adorable Sanders family.
Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford Face Off in the Intense Blade Runner 2049 Teaser
While most of us are worried that the world will end by 2020, apparently the real problems won't start until 30 years from now, according to the first look at Blade Runner 2049. The Blade Runner sequel kicks off three decades after the events of the first film, following a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), as he gradually uncovers a secret that might mean the end of humanity as he knows it. Fans of the original need not fear: the clip looks promising, and Harrison Ford's Rick Deckard character is back in action. Blade Runner 2049 also costars Jared Leto and Robin Wright and has Arrival's Denis Villeneuve as director and futuristic horror king Ridley Scott as executive producer. The movie is out on Oct. 6!
Dunkirk: The Trailer For Christopher Nolan's WWII Film Is So F*cking Stressful
The mind behind the Dark Knight trilogy has returned with a film that is far, far from Gotham. Dunkirk stars Harry Styles (yes, One Direction Harry Styles) along with Nolan's collaborators Cillian Murphy and Tom Hardy. The film takes place during WWII and centers on a group of 400,000 beached Allied soldiers who are ambushed by air. The trailer alone is incredibly intense; it feels more like an award season contender than a Summer release. It's due out July 21.
Everyone Is Reliving Their Last Breakup Thanks to Halsey's New Song
Halsey may be looking to take over Adele's title of queen of breakup songs. The singer released a new track called "Eyes Closed" on Friday, and damn. It's sad as hell. It's a gorgeous melody, and the lyrics will hit home if you've ever struggled with a relationship . . . or 10. "Now if I keep my eyes closed, he looks just like you / But he'll never stay, they never do / Now if I keep my eyes closed, he feels just like you / But you've been replaced / I'm face to face with someone new." Twitter has responded with a barrage of memes, because it's just impossible to be OK after listening.
Me when @halsey said "if I keep my eyes closed, he looks just like you. But he'll never stay, they never do" #EyesClosed http://pic.twitter.com/dAduATtBHP
- salma (@salmuh) May 4, 2017
Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford Face Off in the Intense Blade Runner 2049 Teaser
While most of us are worried that the world will end by 2020, apparently the real problems won't start until 30 years from now, according to the first look at Blade Runner 2049. The Blade Runner sequel kicks off three decades after the events of the first film, following a new blade runner, LAPD Officer K (Ryan Gosling), as he gradually uncovers a secret that might mean the end of humanity as he knows it. Fans of the original need not fear: the clip looks promising, and Harrison Ford's Rick Deckard character is back in action. Blade Runner 2049 also costars Jared Leto and Robin Wright and has Arrival's Denis Villeneuve as director and futuristic horror king Ridley Scott as executive producer. The movie is out on Oct. 6!
Dunkirk: The Trailer For Christopher Nolan's WWII Film Is So F*cking Stressful
The mind behind the Dark Knight trilogy has returned with a film that is far, far from Gotham. Dunkirk stars Harry Styles (yes, One Direction Harry Styles) along with Nolan's collaborators Cillian Murphy and Tom Hardy. The film takes place during WWII and centers on a group of 400,000 beached Allied soldiers who are ambushed by air. The trailer alone is incredibly intense; it feels more like an award season contender than a Summer release. It's due out July 21.
Twin Peaks: Every Official Photo From the Revival
Have you missed the twisted world of Twin Peaks? David Lynch's cult hit is back with new episodes on May 21, and in addition to a number of details and trailers, there are pictures! You can see David Duchovny, Mädchen Amick (who is currently on Riverdale), Peggy Lipton, and Miguel Ferrer back in character, but we're still waiting on an official still of Kyle MacLachlan as Agent Dale Cooper. There are also a ton of new and old faces on the revival, including Amanda Seyfried, Michael Cera, Naomi Watts, and Laura Dern. Take a look at the images we have so far!
Twin Peaks: Every Official Photo From the Revival
Have you missed the twisted world of Twin Peaks? David Lynch's cult hit is back with new episodes on May 21, and in addition to a number of details and trailers, there are pictures! You can see David Duchovny, Mädchen Amick (who is currently on Riverdale), Peggy Lipton, and Miguel Ferrer back in character, but we're still waiting on an official still of Kyle MacLachlan as Agent Dale Cooper. There are also a ton of new and old faces on the revival, including Amanda Seyfried, Michael Cera, Naomi Watts, and Laura Dern. Take a look at the images we have so far!
These Are the Top 10 Summer Haircut Trends According to Pros
If you're ready for a Summer refresh, start with your hair. From statement-making crops to tousled bobs to long layers, we're covering some of the hottest Summer haircuts for 2017. With the help of celebrity stylists, you'll learn how to ask for each of the featured cuts at your go-to salon, as well as how to style the look once you've got it. We've also included expert commentary on which types of hair and face shapes these cuts suit best. Get ready for some serious warm-weather haircut inspiration!
The Story of a Nonverbal Boy and His Deaf Dog Is the Happy You Need Today
Brandi Guillet's son Connor was born addicted to opioid painkillers and abandoned by his birth mother, but none of that mattered to Brandi, who wanted so badly to be a mother. She had already experience one "failed adoption" previously, with a baby named Ellie, but Connor's adoption went through and even though he was born with an addiction, he's a normal kid today - except for the fact that he doesn't speak. Because of this detail, Brandi and her husband decided that Connor needed a friend; more specifically, a dog.
Although the family already had an 8-year-old dog named Chowda, Brandi felt that Connor needed a younger, more active dog to keep up with him daily. At their local Boxer rescue shelter the pair were told that some of the dogs were deaf and that they actually use simple ASL signs, a statement that changed everything for Brandi and her boy because Connor, too, uses simple signs. Brandi shared Connor's backstory with the shelter employee, who immediately knew which dog was meant for the little boy.
"So we went and met the dog and she immediately began licking Connor and let him put his hands all over her face," Brandi shared with the Love What Matters Facebook page. "It is the most beautiful thing to see: he shakes his finger at his dog and the dog stops what he's doing. Connor motions 'come here' and she goes to him. And all of a sudden my nonverbal son has a best friend he can talk to and who understands him."
And the most moving part for Brandi? This dog's name was Ellie.
The only hiccup in this truly sweet story is that Ellie was a foster dog, and her adoption fees were expensive. "I knew as soon as she came home that she wasn't leaving. She was my son's best friend instantly," Brandi said. "But the adoption fees were expensive. Then one day the phone rang. It was the rescue shelter telling me that she had been adopted. At first I was heartbroken that we would have to give her up. Then they said 'You have a guardian angel in New Jersey.'"
Tina, a woman who heard Brandi and Connor's story on Facebook, wanted to help the family with Ellie's fees. "I did what I did because any child or pet with special needs - it's expensive," Tina said. "I wanted to give Brandi some room to breathe. It was clear that dog was right where it needed to be."
Brandi, forever grateful to this stranger and for the family she has, feels like everything that's happened up to this point was meant to be. She said, "I got my family and I got my Ellie."
Cinderella Works Her Magic on This Pumpkin Pie
When the clock strikes midnight and your carriage turns back into a pumpkin, what's a girl to do? Make some pumpkin pie, of course! Let Cinderella show you how to make this delicious recipe with a little help from her fairy godmother's magic wand. Where can we get one of those things? Watch the video, then take a look at this delicious pumpkin pie recipe made without magic.
The Unedited Truth About What It Means to Grow Up as an Americanized Latina
The following post originally appeared on Medium.
I was born on the outskirts of Lima to a Peruvian mother and an absent Spanish father. I was raised solely by my mother, in a house built by my grandfather where a clump of my other relatives sporadically resided.
I do not remember much of my early childhood. I remember that my mother was my counterpart. It was only ever her and I. She clothed me and fed me and nurtured me until I was ready to leave the hen. She was both my caretaker and my leverage. She was both my provider and my patriarch.
I was maybe five or six when my entire life was uprooted. My mother woke me up one morning and told me we were leaving. The memory is hazy because I only remember bits and pieces of my life since then, but I remember that morning and the biting confusion of my younger self when we embarked on a flight to an unfamiliar place where I was allegedly supposed to start all over.
I sparsely remember that it was still my mother and I, moving in and out of different homes, basements, cities, states - for a few years. From time to time, I was continually ripped out of places and put into new ones very suddenly and without warning. Friendships were difficult to maintain. I was constantly in a disoriented state, forced to live in a place where I did not know the language, the customs, the societal expectations.
I was involuntarily coerced into a culture very different from the one I was used to and forced to adapt to it, which made it really hard to stay immersed in my own.
My (God)-given name was Alejandra Guerra Urquieta, a matronymic blend of my father's last name and my mother's maiden name. In the fifth grade, I began to feel like an outsider, constantly enveloped by groups of people who were very different from me who did not know my language, my culture, or my struggles. Nobody knew how to pronounce my name. I was Ale-chandra or Ali-jandra. I was a mispronounced syllable, insignificant, vague.
I became Ali, a name they could pronounce. Simple. Plain.
Ali became the new me. The new accommodated, homologized Peruvian American who finally blended in. Spanish, which was originally my first and only language, became a language that I seldom spoke. I built a roadblock on the portal that led me to my past and created a new persona, one that knew no struggle. One that belonged.
Ali didn't act or look Latina. Ali didn't listen to Hispanic music or watch novelas. Ali only dated white guys. Ali was privileged, merely by living in a country where there was opportunity. We kept some traditions, like Hispanic holiday rituals but eventually my mother was re-married and gave birth to my little brother who grew up almost completely white. The Spanish language died in the house along with our heritage.
Throughout my young adult life, I began to feel that part of me dwindle more and more each day. Suddenly, it was embarrassing and awkward to speak my native language around people who didn't understand it.
I softened my accent, softened my Hispanic demeanor.
It wasn't until I spent a few months in Spain where a local told me that I had an American accent that I realized how much of my identity I had lost.
It is only lately that I am learning to understand and take pride in all the struggles my family has had to scramble through, and the hindrance that comes with being an illegal immigrant striving for a better, more established life. I have learned a lot of things from my mother growing up, like the preeminent value of hard work and independence, to own who you are and your eccentricity, and that women like us will always survive.
I still go by Ali most of the time, but I make sure to tell people my real name - a name that I am not ashamed of, a name that stands for warrior, a name that is doused in defeat, a name that means "conqueror" and never fails to remind me that, despite everything, I will always be capable of that.
6 Reasons Not to Send Professional Emails After Dark
We've all been there before - it's midnight when you suddenly remember a work email you promised to send at the end of the day. You're tempted to send an email right then and there because you either have a deadline or you don't want to forget to send it again the next day. Before you make any rash decisions, stop and consider the situation. Unless the email is an emergency and you actually have people waiting to hear back from you, then I advise you hold off on it till the next day. It's also OK to send it if your colleague lives in a different time zone where it's daytime to your night. Here are reasons against sending late-night work emails:
- They most likely won't read it until the next day. If it's related to work, many people often tune out of their work life once they are home. There are a lot of people who either resolve to not check their work emails after work or not to respond to any work emails until they're back at the office. You're most likely not going to get a response if no one is waiting on you, so hold off on emailing until you're back to your cubicle.
- You'll be reminding them of work during their downtime. Even if your colleague checks her email after work, you don't want to add an additional stressor and remind her of the daily grind that she's trying to escape from.
- The a.m. time stamp is a little iffy. Even if you're more of a night owl, keep those habits to yourself and try not to send off an email at 1 a.m. It might make people wonder what you're doing up in the middle of the night.
- You're more prone to making mistakes. The worst typos come out late at night when you type an email while you're feeling really sleepy. Save yourself from some sloppiness and send the email in the morning. You also don't want to make a mistake and send an email meant for your friend to your boss.
- You should be sleeping. You need to learn to let go of work and to switch out of the 9-to-5 mode when you're at home. Tackling work emails might make it harder to switch out of work mode.
- The alert might wake up the reader. The recipient of the email might leave her smartphone on at night, and if her incoming emails send sound alerts to her cell, the sounds might wake her up from her peaceful slumber.
The Story of a Nonverbal Boy and His Deaf Dog Is the Happy You Need Today
Brandi Guillet's son Connor was born addicted to opioid painkillers and abandoned by his birth mother, but none of that mattered to Brandi, who wanted so badly to be a mother. She had already experience one "failed adoption" previously, with a baby named Ellie, but Connor's adoption went through and even though he was born with an addiction, he's a normal kid today - except for the fact that he doesn't speak. Because of this detail, Brandi and her husband decided that Connor needed a friend; more specifically, a dog.
Although the family already had an 8-year-old dog named Chowda, Brandi felt that Connor needed a younger, more active dog to keep up with him daily. At their local Boxer rescue shelter the pair were told that some of the dogs were deaf and that they actually use simple ASL signs, a statement that changed everything for Brandi and her boy because Connor, too, uses simple signs. Brandi shared Connor's backstory with the shelter employee, who immediately knew which dog was meant for the little boy.
"So we went and met the dog and she immediately began licking Connor and let him put his hands all over her face," Brandi shared with the Love What Matters Facebook page. "It is the most beautiful thing to see: he shakes his finger at his dog and the dog stops what he's doing. Connor motions 'come here' and she goes to him. And all of a sudden my nonverbal son has a best friend he can talk to and who understands him."
And the most moving part for Brandi? This dog's name was Ellie.
The only hiccup in this truly sweet story is that Ellie was a foster dog, and her adoption fees were expensive. "I knew as soon as she came home that she wasn't leaving. She was my son's best friend instantly," Brandi said. "But the adoption fees were expensive. Then one day the phone rang. It was the rescue shelter telling me that she had been adopted. At first I was heartbroken that we would have to give her up. Then they said 'You have a guardian angel in New Jersey.'"
Tina, a woman who heard Brandi and Connor's story on Facebook, wanted to help the family with Ellie's fees. "I did what I did because any child or pet with special needs - it's expensive," Tina said. "I wanted to give Brandi some room to breathe. It was clear that dog was right where it needed to be."
Brandi, forever grateful to this stranger and for the family she has, feels like everything that's happened up to this point was meant to be. She said, "I got my family and I got my Ellie."
The Unedited Truth About What It Means to Grow Up as an Americanized Latina
The following post originally appeared on Medium.
I was born on the outskirts of Lima to a Peruvian mother and an absent Spanish father. I was raised solely by my mother, in a house built by my grandfather where a clump of my other relatives sporadically resided.
I do not remember much of my early childhood. I remember that my mother was my counterpart. It was only ever her and I. She clothed me and fed me and nurtured me until I was ready to leave the hen. She was both my caretaker and my leverage. She was both my provider and my patriarch.
I was maybe five or six when my entire life was uprooted. My mother woke me up one morning and told me we were leaving. The memory is hazy because I only remember bits and pieces of my life since then, but I remember that morning and the biting confusion of my younger self when we embarked on a flight to an unfamiliar place where I was allegedly supposed to start all over.
I sparsely remember that it was still my mother and I, moving in and out of different homes, basements, cities, states - for a few years. From time to time, I was continually ripped out of places and put into new ones very suddenly and without warning. Friendships were difficult to maintain. I was constantly in a disoriented state, forced to live in a place where I did not know the language, the customs, the societal expectations.
I was involuntarily coerced into a culture very different from the one I was used to and forced to adapt to it, which made it really hard to stay immersed in my own.
My (God)-given name was Alejandra Guerra Urquieta, a matronymic blend of my father's last name and my mother's maiden name. In the fifth grade, I began to feel like an outsider, constantly enveloped by groups of people who were very different from me who did not know my language, my culture, or my struggles. Nobody knew how to pronounce my name. I was Ale-chandra or Ali-jandra. I was a mispronounced syllable, insignificant, vague.
I became Ali, a name they could pronounce. Simple. Plain.
Ali became the new me. The new accommodated, homologized Peruvian American who finally blended in. Spanish, which was originally my first and only language, became a language that I seldom spoke. I built a roadblock on the portal that led me to my past and created a new persona, one that knew no struggle. One that belonged.
Ali didn't act or look Latina. Ali didn't listen to Hispanic music or watch novelas. Ali only dated white guys. Ali was privileged, merely by living in a country where there was opportunity. We kept some traditions, like Hispanic holiday rituals but eventually my mother was re-married and gave birth to my little brother who grew up almost completely white. The Spanish language died in the house along with our heritage.
Throughout my young adult life, I began to feel that part of me dwindle more and more each day. Suddenly, it was embarrassing and awkward to speak my native language around people who didn't understand it.
I softened my accent, softened my Hispanic demeanor.
It wasn't until I spent a few months in Spain where a local told me that I had an American accent that I realized how much of my identity I had lost.
It is only lately that I am learning to understand and take pride in all the struggles my family has had to scramble through, and the hindrance that comes with being an illegal immigrant striving for a better, more established life. I have learned a lot of things from my mother growing up, like the preeminent value of hard work and independence, to own who you are and your eccentricity, and that women like us will always survive.
I still go by Ali most of the time, but I make sure to tell people my real name - a name that I am not ashamed of, a name that stands for warrior, a name that is doused in defeat, a name that means "conqueror" and never fails to remind me that, despite everything, I will always be capable of that.
All Hail Elizabeth Debicki's High Priestess Ayesha in Guardians of the Galaxy 2
When Ayesha, high priestess of the Sovereign, first pops up on screen in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, it's electric. Sitting in all of her gilded glory, the leader of the xenophobic, gold-skinned race of aliens - who are quite literally pod people - stares down at Peter Quill, Rocket, Drax, and Gamora from her throne with a mix of detached interest and chilling scorn; she's like a scientist preparing to slice open her next specimen. Although the true villain of the story emerges later on, it's the scenes with Ayesha that cement the towering golden goddess as the film's campier, more entertaining foil for Star Lord and company. So who do we have to thank for this metallic HBIC? Twenty-six-year-old Australian actress Elizabeth Debicki.
She joins Sylvester Stallone and Pom Klementieff as one of the cosmic sequel's best new additions, but it's hardly her first role. Debicki got her start in 2011's A Few Best Men with Rebel Wilson, but it was her big break as Jordan Baker in Baz Luhrmann's The Great Gatsby in 2013 that really set her career in motion.
Since then, she's gone on to star in films like The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and Everest, as well as nabbing the part of Jed Marshall in The Night Manager. Unlike Lee Pace's Ronan in the first Guardians - pause for spoiler warning - Ayesha makes it to the end of the film in perfect, albeit annoyed, condition, and the postcredits scene she appears in all but confirms the important part she'll play in future Marvel properties.
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