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.
dimanche 7 mai 2017
John Stamos Pens a Heartfelt Letter to His Late Mom: "I Felt I Could Not Go On"
It's been nearly three years since John Stamos lost his mother, Loretta Phillips, and he still misses her dearly. In a heartfelt essay for GoodHousekeeping.com as part of its special "Thank You, Mom" series ahead of Mother's Day, the Fuller House actor opened up about a note Loretta left for him to find shortly before her death. "I was sitting at your famous kitchen table, the same table where all the family therapy sessions would happen, and I was wondering how I could possibly get through one single day without you. I honestly felt I could not go on," he recalled. "You meant for me to find that note when I did, and now I'm ready to write you back." Loretta's message read: "Life is an occasion . . . rise to it. Don't be sad because I died . . . be happy because I lived. I had a wonderful life."
"Your whole life was completely unselfish," he continued. "You poured a lifetime of love into me, and that's what I'll remember best too. Two and a half years later, that love still gets me through every single day." Aside from talking about how her life inspired him, he also opened up about how hard it was to say goodbye. "Things got rougher after you passed away. How could it not? You were the most important thing in my life. I allowed outside things to come in and cloud my spirit, but it was your strength that got me through it. Your voice, your beautiful face, your over-abundance of love is always running in the back of my mind and certainly in my heart."
Most of all, he hopes that one day he can be as good of a parent as she was to him. "Maybe someday I'll have a kid or two, and maybe they'll have red hair like yours (although like you used to say, yours came from a bottle)," he said. "Maybe they'll say, 'I love you more' like you always said. But mostly I hope they have your humility and unselfishness and your ability to bring sunshine to anyone who had the pleasure of meeting you. I miss you madly, mother - until we meet again. And we will!"
John Stamos Pens a Heartfelt Letter to His Late Mom: "I Felt I Could Not Go On"
It's been nearly three years since John Stamos lost his mother, Loretta Phillips, and he still misses her dearly. In a heartfelt essay for GoodHousekeeping.com as part of its special "Thank You, Mom" series ahead of Mother's Day, the Fuller House actor opened up about a note Loretta left for him to find shortly before her death. "I was sitting at your famous kitchen table, the same table where all the family therapy sessions would happen, and I was wondering how I could possibly get through one single day without you. I honestly felt I could not go on," he recalled. "You meant for me to find that note when I did, and now I'm ready to write you back." Loretta's message read: "Life is an occasion . . . rise to it. Don't be sad because I died . . . be happy because I lived. I had a wonderful life."
"Your whole life was completely unselfish," he continued. "You poured a lifetime of love into me, and that's what I'll remember best too. Two and a half years later, that love still gets me through every single day." Aside from talking about how her life inspired him, he also opened up about how hard it was to say goodbye. "Things got rougher after you passed away. How could it not? You were the most important thing in my life. I allowed outside things to come in and cloud my spirit, but it was your strength that got me through it. Your voice, your beautiful face, your over-abundance of love is always running in the back of my mind and certainly in my heart."
Most of all, he hopes that one day he can be as good of a parent as she was to him. "Maybe someday I'll have a kid or two, and maybe they'll have red hair like yours (although like you used to say, yours came from a bottle)," he said. "Maybe they'll say, 'I love you more' like you always said. But mostly I hope they have your humility and unselfishness and your ability to bring sunshine to anyone who had the pleasure of meeting you. I miss you madly, mother - until we meet again. And we will!"
This Student's Essay on 12 Years a Slave Is Both Candid and Heartwrenching
Although it's probably not the best idea to cram on a college paper, one college student is going viral because of it. On April 18, Twitter user Stephy (@stephypie15) tweeted a photo of her college essay, writing "Possibly the best sentence I've ever written." In the sentence, Stephy calls out Edwin Epps, a plantation owner who viciously mistreated slaves in Solomon Northup's memoir, 12 Years a Slave.
"Yes, Edwin Epps is getting his own paragraph because that's how much of a piece of sh*t he was," she wrote. Her brother, Eric, followed up with a photo of his sister's graded paper, and let's just say it made her professor sound like the coolest professor ever. Instead of getting upset over Stephy's use of profanity, the professor simply wrote "LOL true" next to her candid sentence.
my little sister wrote a paper over 12 Years A Slave, got a 95, and didn't get clocked for this paragraph.
I am dead 😂 http://pic.twitter.com/AxHyOonQpR- eric sparkles ✨ (@eric_espana) May 4, 2017
"I won't knock you for language here [because] the Epps warrant it, but just as general advice you should try to avoid it in academic papers for other professors," the professor added as a side note on the page. After calling Epps and his wife "sh*t human beings" and "scum of the Earth," her professor simply responded with "Fair enough."
Twitter users could not handle how chill Stephy's professor was about it all. According to Eric, Stephy received a 95 on her last-minute paper and Stephy went on to call her professor "the best." Keep reading to see some of the best reactions to the epic essay ahead.
@eric_espana @stephypie15 @MakeupForWOC I'm still shook at the fact that a professor used LOL bruh, L O fucking L
- KillTheNoise⏩EDCLV (@TheUtopianSoul) May 5, 2017
@eric_espana @stephypie15 @MakeupForWOC i am so fucking proud of her A++ also i love her professor
- ✨ex-birthday girl ✨ (@_blxckgold_) May 5, 2017
@eric_espana @stephypie15 @MakeupForWOC The world needs more teachers like this
- Judson (@GaySportsGeek) May 5, 2017
Alec Baldwin's Daughter Carmen Dances Her Little Tush Off on The Ellen Show
Alec Baldwin is an established actor, the best Donald Trump impersonator SNL has ever seen, and, as it turns out, a hilarious dancer. During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on Wednesday, the Boss Baby star made quite the entrance when he and his 3-year-old daughter, Carmen, danced their way onto Ellen's stage. The adorable little girl had no qualms about strutting her stuff in front of Ellen's large audience, and she even inspired her famous dad to jump around like a big kid. After Carmen went backstage, Alec sat down with the host and chatted about his family with wife Hilaria. In addition to revealing that Carmen is definitely ready for Hollywood, he also talked about how his son Rafael already knows how to smolder for the cameras.
Alec Baldwin's Daughter Carmen Dances Her Little Tush Off on The Ellen Show
Alec Baldwin is an established actor, the best Donald Trump impersonator SNL has ever seen, and, as it turns out, a hilarious dancer. During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on Wednesday, the Boss Baby star made quite the entrance when he and his 3-year-old daughter, Carmen, danced their way onto Ellen's stage. The adorable little girl had no qualms about strutting her stuff in front of Ellen's large audience, and she even inspired her famous dad to jump around like a big kid. After Carmen went backstage, Alec sat down with the host and chatted about his family with wife Hilaria. In addition to revealing that Carmen is definitely ready for Hollywood, he also talked about how his son Rafael already knows how to smolder for the cameras.
How to Do Holographic Highlight IRL - According to a Beauty Pro
Taylor Frankel launched the successful makeup brand Nudestix with her sister Ally. We are thrilled to share this exclusive contributing creative post from her. Then, learn more about how she started Nudestix here.
Hey, it's me, your girl Tay! Serious question, how many times have you seen an Instagram trend that looks super cool in pictures, but not-at-all wearable IRL? (TBT to clown contouring, haha.) The beauty community has done it again, by feeding our inner unicorn obsession. Meet the holographic highlighting trend! Not that I need to tell you, because you've probably heard all the rage about the "holographic" trend, and probably thought to yourself, "Well, that's cool but I could never wear (or pull that off) to work, school, or for a casual brunch with girlfriends." For this very relatable reason, I have created the ultimate (not to brag!) step-by-step how-to guide for creating the perfect wearable holographic highlight for real life. Thank me later, ladies!
Asia Kate Dillon Is the Change-Maker the Beauty Industry Needs
In a Donald Trump presidency era, where many social issues seem to be moving backwards in time, it's more important than ever to celebrate the change-makers breaking barriers. Actor Asia Kate Dillon is one of those leaders, whose initiatives to normalize nonbinary gender identity in Hollywood are rewriting history. (FYI, nonbinary gender means a person is not exclusively male or female and would usually use the pronoun "they" instead of "him" or "her.")
Asia is credited for playing the first genderqueer character in a mainstream TV show for their role of Taylor Mason in Showtime's Billions. Off-screen, Asia also identifies as genderfluid.
"My assigned sex is Female," Asia recently clarified on Twitter. "My gender identity is Non-binary. Anatomy and biology are complicated. I said sex, only as in anatomy . . . Sex is between legs. Identity is between ears."
This year, Asia made headlines when they submitted their name for an Emmy Award and choose "actor" instead of "actress," because the former is a more gender-neutral word. The public move to push gender boundaries prompted MTV to combine previously male-and-female-separated categories at the MTV Awards, and Asia will take the stage to present the award for best actor in a movie.
"I'm proud of MTV for joining the conversation about breaking down binaries," Asia told W. "Binaries, whether it be man or woman or black or white, they were created to separate us, to create an us and a them. Without binaries, there's only us. Which means we're actually all equal. So to be presenting the first acting award in history that is based solely on performance and not on sex or gender identity is a historic moment and it's a moment that will go down in history, and that is a history I share not only with my family, friends and coworkers, but with all the trans, nonbinary and gender-nonconforming people, particularly people of color, who have been leading the way for change long before I was born."
But that is not the only reason we want to watch Asia. They're also a beauty inspiration - rocking a badass shaved head, seriously gorgeous eyebrows, flawless skin, and unique tattoos. If their career keeps up (Asia has also appeared in Orange Is the New Black, Younger, and Master of None), landing a beauty campaign is only a matter of time. Oh, and if you were wondering, Asia told Ellen DeGeneres their romantic partner identifies as male.
Keep reading to see more reasons why Asia is our latest beauty idol.
Sticker Hair Is the Playful Trend Every '90s Girl Will Appreciate
Prepare to please your inner 5-year-old with a glance at this fun, quirky look: sticker hair! NYC hairstylist Allen Thomas Wood recently took to Instagram to share a peek at the creative style he put together using tiny, colorful Japanese stickers. In the comments section, he revealed that he used the tail of a comb to press the stickers into smooth, slicked-back hair. His bright creation is the latest in a line of several playful hair trends to capture our attention, including everything from holographic hues to, yes, Unicorn Frappuccino hair. Keep reading for a closer look at the sticker hair style, which will definitely tap into your '90s nostalgia.
Chiara Ferragni's New Engagement Ring Shines Brighter Than Her YSL Minidress
For blogger and entrepreneur Chiara Ferragni's 30th birthday, she invited all of her friends to Venice. They were wearing customized Alberta Ferretti sweaters that read "Chiara." But if that's not enough of a statement, Chiara celebrated her special night in a shimmering Saint Laurent minidress, which was later embellished by a brand new ring from her new fiance Luca. Scroll for a quick snap of the gorgeous sparkler that shines brighter than the most luminous dress at the party.
10 Crazy Quinceañera Surprise Dances That Will Put Yours to Shame
The whole idea of a surprise dance at a quinceañera is to shock your guests with whatever routine you come up with (and practice for hours) with your honor court. And while we are not usually invited to many quinces anymore, the internet delivers if like us you're looking for a few cool videos.
From being transported to the 1920s to a classic damas and chambelanes waltz dance, these could serve as serious inspiration for your little sister or daughter or provide you with a few minutes of fun.
Chiara Ferragni's New Engagement Ring Shines Brighter Than Her YSL Minidress
For blogger and entrepreneur Chiara Ferragni's 30th birthday, she invited all of her friends to Venice. They were wearing customized Alberta Ferretti sweaters that read "Chiara." But if that's not enough of a statement, Chiara celebrated her special night in a shimmering Saint Laurent minidress - that was later embellished by a brand new ring from her new fiance Luca. Scroll for a quick snap of the gorgeous sparkler that shines brighter than the most luminous dress at the party.
Kate Middleton Puts Her Farming Skills to Work by Feeding a Little Lamb
Kate Middleton doesn't need to be with Prince George and Princess Charlotte to show off her maternal side. The Duchess of Cambridge was all kinds of cute during a trip to a Gloucestershire farm on Wednesday. Dressed casually in olive pants, a navy sweater, and a khaki jacket, Kate appeared to have a blast while visiting the Farms for City Children charity, which provides inner-city kids with the opportunity to live and work on a farm for a week. Aside from touring the grounds, the mother of two had a particularly adorable encounter with one of the farm's furry animals as she casually fed a lamb with a bottle. The recent appearance is particularly special for Kate, as she revealed in September that she'd secretly like to be "a young farmer" and is teaching Prince George and Princess Charlotte about the farm at the family's country home in Norfolk.
Kate Middleton Puts Her Farming Skills to Work by Feeding a Little Lamb
Kate Middleton doesn't need to be with Prince George and Princess Charlotte to show off her maternal side. The Duchess of Cambridge was all kinds of cute during a trip to a Gloucestershire farm on Wednesday. Dressed casually in olive pants, a navy sweater, and a khaki jacket, Kate appeared to have a blast while visiting the Farms for City Children charity, which provides inner-city kids with the opportunity to live and work on a farm for a week. Aside from touring the grounds, the mother of two had a particularly adorable encounter with one of the farm's furry animals as she casually fed a lamb with a bottle. The recent appearance is particularly special for Kate, as she revealed in September that she'd secretly like to be "a young farmer" and is teaching Prince George and Princess Charlotte about the farm at the family's country home in Norfolk.
10 Crazy Quinceañera Surprise Dances That Will Put Yours to Shame
The whole idea of a surprise dance at a quinceañera is to shock your guests with whatever routine you come up with (and practice for hours) with your honor court. And while we are not usually invited to many quinces anymore, the internet delivers if like us you're looking for a few cool videos.
From being transported to the 1920s to a classic damas and chambelanes waltz dance, these could serve as serious inspiration for your little sister or daughter or provide you with a few minutes of fun.
The Darling Mommy-and-Me Robes Vogue Gave to Victoria Beckham
When Victoria Beckham shared a snap of herself and her daughter Harper wearing Vogue robes, we blurted out an "Aww!" But after a little investigation, we found she might not be the only one who made out with one. Gigi Hadid has rocked the same signature embroidered robe on set, and it looks like Vogue Netherlands has a whole lineup of them available for models on duty, or, err, gifting. Scroll to take another look at the adorable snapshot Victoria shared, and you'll soon see that this particular robe is quite the prized possession.
See Every Sweet Piece of Too Faced's I Want Kandee Collection (With Swatches!)
Too Faced Cofounder and Chief Creative Officer Jerrod Blandino recently took to Instagram to share one of his enticing "sneaky peeks." The reveal, a 15-pan eye shadow palette, was a first look at the brand's new I Want Kandee collaboration in part with influencer Kandee Johnson. But the tantalizing tease was just a small slice of the upcoming collection - and we were one of the first people to get an exclusive look!
Together Too Faced and Kandee designed eight brand-new products that launch on Sept. 3 exclusively at Ulta. The delectable collection features the aforementioned Candy Eyes palette, but the sweetness doesn't stop there.
Fans of Kandee and Too Faced can also snag the new Candy Black Licorice Eyeliner, Candy Glow Highlighting Stick, Banana Pudding Brightening Face Powder, and not one but, four fresh Melted Matte Liquid Lipsticks - all curated by Kandee.
Hear that? That's the sound of our makeup bags having a full on sugar rush. And in true Too Faced fashion, each of the products smells good enough to eat (seriously, everything smells like vanilla ice cream).
We got to catch up with the duo at a press event for the launch. There, the pair shared that the collection stemmed from a routine phone call. "Kandee is one of my best friends, and she called me and said that she had wonderful ideas and recipes that could help women get their desired looks without intimidation" Jerrod shared.
As they brainstormed, Kandee revealed that she wanted to deliver a collection of her very own go-to products. "Everything I get asked the most about were the colors I wanted to create," she said. So the BFFs paired their unique expertise and passion for makeup to curate the new range.
Kandee also revealed that designing user-friendly products for women of all ages and complexions was a huge priority, and it's reflected in the fun, functional collection. "No matter your skin tone or age, these shouldn't be intimidating" she said.
Though you'll have to wait until September to get your Kandee fix, you can still get excited for the new products now. Ahead we've broken down the details of the fresh treats so you can get your taste buds makeup bag ready.
You've Never Seen Glitter Highlighter Swatches This Bright Before
Many shimmery, holographic products claim to be "magical," but indie brand Glitter Injections's new highlighter actual is. The glitter strobing cream is blindingly bright, and it actually doesn't come off under running water (just watch the Instagram video ahead!). So you can really be a mermaid, swimming in the ocean with moonbeams on your cheeks - or bum!
The highlighters come in five festive shades: Fame (iridescent gold), Autograph (purple), She's Jelly (green), Own the Stage (red), and Fan Mail (green). Plus, now you can snag the whole set for $88 (normally $100) online here. Keep reading to see gorgeous swatches of these highlighters.
How to Get Sexy, Cellulite-Free Legs This Summer - According to Top Derms
Image Source: Popsugar Photography / Sheila Gim
On the first warm-weather day of Spring, I went to work in a sundress for the first time since last year. As I sat at my desk, I looked down at my previously pants-covered legs and was horrified. They looked like they were covered in dust, were paler than any other part of my body, and somehow had become uneven and splotchy. Winter had done quite a number on my normally smooth, carefully buffed and bronzed legs.
If you recently had a similar experience, don't freak out. I turned to dermatologists Dr. Dendy Engleman and Dr. Heidi Waldorf to find out how to treat some common skin issues, like cellulite and varicose veins. You and I won't have to wear jeans in 85 degree weather to hide the damage cold weather did to our stems.
Keratosis Pilaris
You know those raised bumps you see on the back of your arms, legs, and sometimes even your butt? That isn't acne but actually keratosis pilaris (KP), sometimes referred to as chicken skin. The bumps are caused by a buildup of keratin in hair follicles, causing rough plugs.
According to Dr. Engleman, treating these harmless but unsightly bumps isn't difficult. "The most important concept of controlling KP is moisturizing the skin," Engleman explains. She also expressed that products containing chemical exfoliants can also help the problem. "My favorite products involve ingredients that can break up that excess keratin buildup such as alpha hydroxy acids, like lactic acid and glycolic acid, and beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid."
If the problem persists, Dr. Engleman suggests trying retinoids, which are vitamin-A-derived and promote cell turnover. "Retinoids can gently exfoliate to remove dead skin cells if hydroxy acids don't give a noticeable improvement."
Dry, Scaly Skin
If you've noticed an uneven, scaly texture on your legs, it means the skin cells aren't falling off like they're supposed to. This can happen during cold weather or after using products with drying or irritating ingredients. Dr. Waldorf suggests exclusively using gentle products to prevent this. "The best way to prevent and treat scaly skin is to use a gentle cleanser that won't strip your skin, like Dove Body Wash ($6), followed by a moisturizer like Eucerin Smoothing Repair Lotion ($9)."
Discoloration
Sometimes a dark mark can be left behind on our skin from a cut or bug bite, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. After your skin is red, itchy, or swollen, the skin can heal and look brown afterward. Unfortunately, dark marks on our legs fade slower than on our face and can last months.
Although you can use laser treatments to get rid of them, Dr. Waldorf suggests waiting until the Fall or Winter for these treatments. Instead, there's an easier route for even skin tone: "In the meantime, moisturize, [and] use alpha hydroxy acid and acid moisturizers to improve the pigment. [You can also] cover the spots with leg makeup or self tanner."
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are dilated blood vessels caused by increased pressure on the veins. The causes of the pressure can range from standing for too long to pregnancy or even obesity. Dr. Engleman explains that there are two procedures available to get rid of these veins depending on the severity. "Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment and it involves injecting a solution into the vein that forces it to collapse, which stops blood flow. The vein will turn into a scar and fade after a few weeks."
If you have smaller spider veins, Dr. Engleman suggests laser treatment because these veins are harder to inject.
Image Source: Popsugar Photography / Benjamin Stone
Cellulite
Cellulite happens when pockets of fat beneath the skin become squashed against tissue and create a dimpled appearance. Almost everyone has some amount of it, and according to Dr. Waldorf, it isn't connected to being overweight. If you'd like to reduce the appearance of cellulite, however, there are a few procedures and methods to remedy the appearance.
Injections
Dr. Waldorf suggest a filler such as Sculptra or Radiesse in conjunction with a procedure like ulthera. "[The filler]s stimulate improvement and filling of the dimples [while] ulthera tightens tissue.
Dry Brushing and Exfoliation
If injections sound too extreme, Dr. Engleman suggests trying to exfoliate the area. "Exfoliation helps to smooth the appearance [of cellulite] by increasing blood flow to the area and reducing inflammation." One method the doctor suggests is dry brushing.
Ingrown Hairs
More frequent hair removal during the Summer months leads to a lot of painful, red ingrown hairs. Dr. Engelman has some suggestions for those more prone to razor bumps and irritation. "You may want to exfoliate the area to ensure that the hair can come cleanly out. Also, try shaving the way your hair grows. Shaving against hair growth gives you a closer shave but the blunt-tipped end of hairs can grow back into the skin rather than up and out."
If those tips don't help, it may be time to try depilatory creams, laser hair removal, or electrolysis.
If you already have razor burn or ingrown hairs, Dr. Waldorf has a solution. "If you have redness or irritation, rub in an over-the-counter 1 percent hydrocortisone cream," the doctor explains.
Bruises
Some of us bruise like a peach. The black-and-blue marks that are a result of our clumsy behavior are a result of pooled blood under the skin due to trauma that causes blood vessels to burst. Dr. Engelman suggests a few oils that can improve the appearance. "If you're prone to bruising, topical arnica or helichrysum oil can help with the swelling and bruising by aiding the reabsorption of the blood."
Recall Alert: Aunt Jemima Frozen Waffles and Pancakes Have Possible Contamination
Pinnacle Foods Inc. is recalling all Aunt Jemima frozen pancakes, frozen waffles, and frozen french toast slices sold in the US due to possible Listeria contamination. The New Jersey-based company announced the recall on May 5 after detecting "the presence of Listeria monocytogenes in the plant environment." Pinnacle Foods clarified that no illnesses have been reported by consumers, but the "products are being recalled as a precautionary measure."
A total of 17 of Aunt Jemima frozen products are included in the recall, as listed below:
- Aunt Jemima Lil Griddlers Blueverry 14.5oz
- Aunt Jemima Mini Pancakes 14.5oz
- Aunt Jemima French Toast 12.5oz
- Aunt Jemima Cinnamon French Toast 12.5oz
- Aunt Jemima Whole Grain French Toast 12.5oz
- Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Pancake Low Fat 14.5oz
- Aunt Jemima Homestyle Waffle 17.18oz
- Aunt Jemima Blueberry Waffle 17.18oz
- Aunt Jemima Low Fat Waffle 17.18oz
- Aunt Jemima Blueberry Pancake 14.8oz
- Aunt Jemima Oatmeal Pancake 14.8oz
- Aunt Jemima Whole Grain Pancake 14.5oz
- Aunt Jemima Buttermilk Pancake 14.8oz
- Aunt Jemima Homestyle Pancake 14.8oz
- Aunt Jemima 60CT Club Pancakes Premium
- Aunt Jemima Pancake Mexico 60CT
Pinnacle Foods also stressed that "consumers should not consume these products." Any products affected by the recall can be returned for a full refund at the original purchase location. If you have any questions, you can contact Pinnacle Foods at 1-888-299-7646, then be sure to toss those frozen Aunt Jemima pancakes, waffles, and french toast products in the trash bin as a safety precaution.
These Are 23 of the Hottest Beauty Launches For May 2017
As you shop for Mother's Day gifts this month, make sure to pick up some beauty swag for yourself. May is bringing us tons of fantastic hair care, skin care, and makeup launches - from a sunscreen mousse to an edgy perfume (that comes in a skull-embossed case) and an ice-cream-inspired lip gloss. Keep reading to see which items POPSUGAR editors are loving and using right now.
4 New Couples Who Made Their Relationships Red Carpet Official at the Met Gala
The Met Gala has long been known as the most fashionable red carpet of the year - the carpet, nay, stairs, you strut while showing the world just how into fashion you are. But like other red carpets, it can also be the place where rumored couples are minted as the real deal. This year's event was no exception, with several couples officially posing together for the first time. These are the Met Gala couples who were ready to show the world their love.
4 New Couples Who Made Their Relationships Red Carpet Official at the Met Gala
The Met Gala has long been known as the most fashionable red carpet of the year - the carpet, nay, stairs, you strut while showing the world just how into fashion you are. But like other red carpets, it can also be the place where rumored couples are minted as the real deal. This year's event was no exception, with several couples officially posing together for the first time. These are the Met Gala couples who were ready to show the world their love.
Demi Lovato's Puppies Are the Cutest - See For Yourselves
Demi Lovato has always been an animal-lover, so it's no wonder she's growing her little puppy family. The "Body Say" singer just gave the dog she got on her 23rd birthday, Batman, a little sister, named Cinderella. At the same time Demi announced she had a new addition to her puppy family, she surprised her fans by giving her beloved Batman his own Instagram and Snapchat accounts. It's safe to say, Batman is balling on social media, so we expected even more photos with Cinderella, like the adorable ones straight ahead.
Demi Lovato's Puppies Are the Cutest - See For Yourselves
Demi Lovato has always been an animal-lover, so it's no wonder she's growing her little puppy family. The "Body Say" singer just gave the dog she got on her 23rd birthday, Batman, a little sister, named Cinderella. At the same time Demi announced she had a new addition to her puppy family, she surprised her fans by giving her beloved Batman his own Instagram and Snapchat accounts. It's safe to say, Batman is balling on social media, so we expected even more photos with Cinderella, like the adorable ones straight ahead.
14 Beer Cocktails For a Sweet, Slow-Building Buzz
This Summer, cool off to a refreshingly fizzy beer-based cocktail. While a few classics like the Fuzzy Navel, michelada, and shandy are making modern comebacks, prepare to see beer in a whole new light. Who knew you could make it the base for sangria, fruity slushies, and more?
One of the French Presidential Candidates Plagiarized Part of Her Speech
It looks like politics is starting to care less about plagiarizing and is instead fully embracing it. French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen is being accused of plagiarizing a part of her speech from a former opponent.
Le Pen's speech, given at a rally on May 1, includes several similarities to a speech given by former candidate Francois Fillon on April 15. Both speeches include the use of two phrases - "three maritime borders" and "Italy, our sister" - and use a quote from former French prime minister Georges Clemenceau, reports CNN. You can watch a clip of the two speeches side by side ahead.
You don't have to speak French to get this. Marine Le Pen plagiarizes word for word (mot pour mot) her former opponent. via @tobiaschneider http://pic.twitter.com/52IXTCxp4B
- Joyce Karam (@Joyce_Karam) May 1, 2017
However, supporters of Le Pen aren't outraged, and her staff jumped to her defense. Le Pen's campaign manager, David Rachline, said it was a way for her to reach Fillon supporters. "I do think this shout-out was much appreciated, even by Mr. Fillon's supporters," said Rachline to France's TV2.
It's unclear whether this will be any type of setback for Le Pen, who is currently trailing behind her opponent, Emmanuel Macron, by 20 points, according to a recent poll.
Why I Quit My Job in New York City to Backpack Across Europe
I can still remember the look on my husband's face when I asked him the question. It was a thought that had been brewing in my mind for quite some time, and suddenly, as we squeezed into the already-crammed F train, the words spilled out of my mouth.
"Do you want to quit our jobs and backpack across Europe?"
While I was expecting a hysterical are-you-serious laugh in return, he looked around at the sardine can we were currently packed into, smiled, and said, "Let's do it."
And so, the planning began. It took 15 months of shoving every cent we had into savings, but before we knew it, we were buying backpacks, selling what belongings we had in our 400-square-foot Brooklyn apartment, and giving our two-week notices at work. The time had come to pop the comfort bubble we had formed in a city we were head over heels in love with to embark on a new adventure.
While we were fortunate to have the encouragement from our family and friends, not everyone understood our decision. For some people, they digested our plan like this: here we were, in our mid-20s, living in the "city of dreams" with well-paying jobs, about to willingly throw it all away. Crazy, right? Yet what they may not have realized was how we had long contemplated this decision. It was a decision that felt right and one we were confident in making.
As I reflect on the 71 days spent backpacking across Europe, I smile knowing I have no regrets. While quitting a job to travel isn't for everyone, it was right for us. Those 10 weeks were by no means glamorous, but they were filled to the brim with inspiration, which made any obstacle encountered well worth it.
For those of you with thoughts of taking a big leap on a similar adventure but still clinging onto fear and hesitation, I am here to shine a light on why you should take the jump, why you will become a better person because of it, and tips on how your dream can be affordable. Here are four lessons I learned from stepping outside my comfort zone and giving up stability.
You Can Never Have Enough Highlighters – So Here are 11 Pastel Hues
Pastel-hued highlighters are taking over your Instagram feeds due to the modern and playful vibe the beauty trend exudes. Whether you opt for a purple-toned iridescent hue, or experiment for upcoming music festivals with green or blue variations, there are a plethora of shimmery, colorful products to choose from. The soft-hued treasures are reminiscent of unicorn horns and mermaid tails and will give you the ethereal glow you crave during warmer weather. Discover the magical picks ahead, and don't be afraid to try out all the rainbow tones.
One of the French Presidential Candidates Plagiarized Part of Her Speech
It looks like politics is starting to care less about plagiarizing and is instead fully embracing it. French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen is being accused of plagiarizing a part of her speech from a former opponent.
Le Pen's speech, given at a rally on May 1, includes several similarities to a speech given by former candidate Francois Fillon on April 15. Both speeches include the use of two phrases - "three maritime borders" and "Italy, our sister" - and use a quote from former French prime minister Georges Clemenceau, reports CNN. You can watch a clip of the two speeches side by side ahead.
You don't have to speak French to get this. Marine Le Pen plagiarizes word for word (mot pour mot) her former opponent. via @tobiaschneider http://pic.twitter.com/52IXTCxp4B
- Joyce Karam (@Joyce_Karam) May 1, 2017
However, supporters of Le Pen aren't outraged, and her staff jumped to her defense. Le Pen's campaign manager, David Rachline, said it was a way for her to reach Fillon supporters. "I do think this shout-out was much appreciated, even by Mr. Fillon's supporters," said Rachline to France's TV2.
It's unclear whether this will be any type of setback for Le Pen, who is currently trailing behind her opponent, Emmanuel Macron, by 20 points, according to a recent poll.
You Can Never Have Enough Highlighters – So Here are 11 Pastel Hues
Pastel-hued highlighters are taking over your Instagram feeds due to the modern and playful vibe the beauty trend exudes. Whether you opt for a purple-toned iridescent hue, or experiment for upcoming music festivals with green or blue variations, there are a plethora of shimmery, colorful products to choose from. The soft-hued treasures are reminiscent of unicorn horns and mermaid tails and will give you the ethereal glow you crave during warmer weather. Discover the magical picks ahead, and don't be afraid to try out all the rainbow tones.
10 Recipes Using Mashed Plantains - and, Yes, Mangú Is 1 of Them
If you've ever found yourself feeling guilty about enjoying the comfort of plantains, never do that again. The fruit is not only versatile (you can fry it or bake it, make it savory or sweet) but also packs on the health benefits. The easiest and oftentimes healthiest way to enjoy its unique taste? By mashing it. Straight ahead, find 10 recipes (from Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and more) that use plátanos machacados as the main ingredient.
8 Things You Never Knew About Taco Bell, Straight From a Former Employee
If you've always wondered what it's like behind the scenes of Taco Bell, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a former Taco Bell employee's secrets from a Reddit AMA ("Ask Me Anything") conversation in which he described what he learned throughout his year of working at the fast-food restaurant. Ahead, discover little-known facts about Taco Bell's iconic cheese sauce, how to save money on your order, and more.
If you're rude, you might not get the extra cheese you ordered.
A concerned customer asked, "When I pay more for extra cheese on my soft tacos, it looks like the same amount. Is 'extra cheese' even a real thing?" And the employee revealed that sometimes the "extra" requests are ignored. "I will admit there are times when I do just put the same amount when people would be assh*les, but there's also times people were nice and we'd put like five times extra. The true amount that extra is is just double, but the thing is it doesn't come with that much to begin with. It's supposed to be a 'one finger pinch' of cheese."
The cheese doesn't expire for a REALLY long time.
When someone asked which Taco Bell foods are "real," the employee responded, "Well, everything comes in bags. We don't actually make any of it there, we just heat it up, so I don't know exactly what cuts of meat we use but I did once hear a manager who had worked at Taco Bell for 15 years on and off tell me that the beef is all USDA choice. As far as cheese, it's real but it also doesn't expire for a very, very, very long time (like almost a year) so it's got to be full of preservatives (it gets used quickly so it's not that old, that's just the expiration date relative to when we get it)."
Don't forget about the free additions and swaps.
If you want to customize your order, there are a few swaps you can make for free. "You can swap [refried] beans for black beans for free and red sauce for green sauce for free and [iceberg] lettuce for romaine lettuce for free and add onions/red sauce/green sauce for free to anything." Vegetarians can also substitute meat for beans and rice at no extra charge. Also, "The burritos on the dollar menu are about the same size as the other regular burritos but like 30 cents cheaper."
You can order a side of beef and a taco shell to make a cheaper taco.
Many people often order tacos without lettuce, cheese, or both, and if that sounds like you, you'd be better off ordering a side of beef and a taco shell instead. "It's cheaper to order a side of beef and a side of a taco shell (or tortilla for a soft taco) and put them together. You could also ask them to just make it like a taco and most people would be perfectly willing to."
The best-kept secret is the Nacho Cheese Chicken Chalupa.
Taco Bell's Chicken Chalupa typically has a generous dollop of sour cream on top, but you can order the Nacho Cheese Chicken Chalupa instead to make it extra cheesy. Someone wanted to know if that was a common order, and the employee said, "People order that all the time but we always ask if they still want the sour cream because 50 percent do and 50 percent don't."
The best thing on the menu is . . .
The Cheesy Gordita Crunch. "If it's a fresh one it's flavor heaven," the employee said. A Cheesy Gordita Crunch is a hard taco wrapped in a soft flour tortilla and stuffed with beef, spicy ranch, cheese, and lettuce.
Employees get a 50 percent discount.
If you love Taco Bell, working there might be awesome for you. Employees get a 50 percent discount for up to $5, as long as they've worked at least two hours of their shift.
The taco meat has caramel coloring.
Someone wanted to know what was in the "taco juice," aka what makes Taco Bell's meat so juicy. The employee wasn't entirely sure, but responded with, "You mean what's in the meat? Mostly it's smoke flavoring and caramel coloring."
Jimmy Kimmel's Wife Shares a Photo of Her 2 Boys After They Reveal Son's Heart Condition
I am thankful to love and be loved by these two brave guys. Both criers. http://pic.twitter.com/NL0C3K3Q4E
- Molly McNearney (@mollymcnearney) May 2, 2017
On Monday, Jimmy Kimmel opened his show with a touching and heartbreaking story about his family. After telling the audience that he and his wife, Molly McNearney, welcomed son William on April 21, he revealed that their little guy is battling a serious heart condition. Jimmy said that Billy underwent one of likely three open-heart surgeries a few days after his birth, and that he had to be hooked up to numerous IVs after the procedure. Shortly after he revealed the news while fighting back tears, professional snowboarder Shaun White, who shares the same heart condition as Jimmy's son, stopped by to talk to the host about what it was like growing up with the condition and to put his mind at ease.
Molly also spoke out by sharing a beautiful photo of Jimmy and Billy on Twitter on Tuesday. "I am thankful to love and be loved by these two brave guys. Both criers," she wrote alongside the snap of Billy smiling up at his dad. She also thanked everyone for their kind words, writing in another tweet, "We had a baby. Here is the story told so eloquently by my sweet husband. Thank you for all the love, support and prayers. xo" It's safe to say that Billy is in very good hands.
10 Recipes Using Mashed Plantains - and, Yes, Mangú Is 1 of Them
If you've ever found yourself feeling guilty about enjoying the comfort of plantains, never do that again. The fruit is not only versatile (you can fry it or bake it, make it savory or sweet) but also packs on the health benefits. The easiest and oftentimes healthiest way to enjoy its unique taste? By mashing it. Straight ahead, find 10 recipes (from Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and more) that use plátanos machacados as the main ingredient.
Have Better Sex TONIGHT With These Foreplay Ideas - You Deserve It
Whether you're looking to spice things up or kick your already-intense sex life up a notch, focus on foreplay the next time you and your partner get into things. Prolonging the process will make you crave each other that much more and the results will be well worth the wait. Try these four naughty tips tonight for the most amazing buildup.
1. Take a hot shower or bath together after work.
Unwind after a long day with a steamy soak with your SO. Washing away any stress and tension will allow you to enjoy each other even more and start your evening off on a relaxing note. Add candles around the tub for a little romance or opt for a makeout session in the shower before making your way to the bedroom.
2. Wear lingerie underneath your outfit.
Slip on something sexy beneath your clothes for your next dinner date. Then, give your partner a little sneak peek in the car or at the restaurant just to tease them. Making them wait until after dinner to uncover the rest will make the buildup that much hotter.
3. Make it a game.
Start kissing and undressing one another but don't let either of you jump into the main act. See how long you both can continue before giving in - loser has to start things off the next round.
4. Blindfold your partner.
Make things interesting and cover your partner's eyes with a tie or scarf. Start kissing them on the neck, stomach, or wherever their favorite spots are and make your way down. If you want to really take things to the next level, hold an ice cube in your mouth as you work your way around.
Jimmy Kimmel's Wife Shares a Photo of Her 2 Boys After They Reveal Son's Heart Condition
I am thankful to love and be loved by these two brave guys. Both criers. http://pic.twitter.com/NL0C3K3Q4E
- Molly McNearney (@mollymcnearney) May 2, 2017
On Monday, Jimmy Kimmel opened his show with a touching and heartbreaking story about his family. After telling the audience that he and his wife, Molly McNearney, welcomed son William on April 21, he revealed that their little guy is battling a serious heart condition. Jimmy said that Billy underwent one of likely three open-heart surgeries a few days after his birth, and that he had to be hooked up to numerous IVs after the procedure. Shortly after he revealed the news while fighting back tears, professional snowboarder Shaun White, who shares the same heart condition as Jimmy's son, stopped by to talk to the host about what it was like growing up with the condition and to put his mind at ease.
Molly also spoke out by sharing a beautiful photo of Jimmy and Billy on Twitter on Tuesday. "I am thankful to love and be loved by these two brave guys. Both criers," she wrote alongside the snap of Billy smiling up at his dad. She also thanked everyone for their kind words, writing in another tweet, "We had a baby. Here is the story told so eloquently by my sweet husband. Thank you for all the love, support and prayers. xo" It's safe to say that Billy is in very good hands.
Meghan Markle Looks Royally Smitten While Watching Prince Harry Play Polo
Meghan Markle basically turned into the heart eyes emoji on Saturday, and it's all thanks to Prince Harry. The Suits actress and activist traveled to the Cowarth Polo Club in Ascot, England, over the weekend to watch her boyfriend of over six months compete in the Audi Polo Challenge, where she couldn't help but flash a huge smile. It marks the first time that Harry (who looked equally smitten, by the way) and Meghan attended a public event together.
The polo match raised money for Harry's charities, Sentebale and WellChild, and boasted A-list guests like Harry's former classmate Eddie Redmayne, Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell, and The Crown actor Matt Smith (who coincidentally plays Harry's grandfather Prince Philip in the Netflix drama). While Meghan cheered Harry on from the stands, she bonded with Mark Dyer, a former Welsh Guards officer and close friend of Harry's who helped set up his Sentebale charity.
Meghan and Harry have been jetting all over the world to be with one another over the last few months, including trips to Canada (where Meghan films Suits) and to Jamaica to celebrate a friend's wedding. The pair will be wedding dates once again in just a few weeks, when they they attend Pippa Middleton's high-profile nuptials. Kate Middleton's sister reportedly has a "no ring, no bring" policy for her ceremony, so Meghan will join Harry at the reception later on that night.
The Biggest Mistake I Made Before Hiking to Machu Picchu
Can I confess something to you? I am addicted to adventure. No matter the day, my mind thirsts for adventure the way some yearn for their first cup of coffee. So when I had the opportunity to hike the four-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu not too long ago, as you can imagine, the thought of this trek made me high on thrill.
Little did I know this adventure would unfortunately be one of the worst experiences of my life due to some unforeseen circumstances. Let's just say I brought home an unwanted souvenir from the trip: a parasite.
Would I make the trek again? Yes! Machu Picchu is an incredible place to discover in person, not to mention it is one of the new seven wonders of the world. But would I change a few things before making the trek again? Absolutely.
If trekking along the 26-mile Inca Trail is in your future or if the thought has ever crept into your mind, make sure you take into consideration the valuable eight lessons I learned from my experience.
Harry Styles Gives Fans a Taste of His Eerie "Sign of the Times" Music Video
http://pic.twitter.com/yxRKzjaKgD
- Harry Styles. (@Harry_Styles) May 6, 2017
No offense, but Harry Styles's "Sign of the Times" has kind of made us grateful that One Direction broke up. The sweeping, emotional ballad has a very Paul McCartney vibe to it, and has quickly become one of our favorites, which is what makes his latest tweet so exciting. On Saturday he shared a brief look at the upcoming music video for the track, which will drop on Monday and no doubt hit us all right in the feels (and finally give some context to those hilarious photos of him soaring through the air). The next few days are going to be rife with anticipation, but as usual, he's worth waiting for.
Harry Styles Gives Fans a Taste of His Eerie "Sign of the Times" Music Video
http://pic.twitter.com/yxRKzjaKgD
- Harry Styles. (@Harry_Styles) May 6, 2017
No offense, but Harry Styles's "Sign of the Times" has kind of made us grateful that One Direction broke up. The sweeping, emotional ballad has a very Paul McCartney vibe to it, and has quickly become one of our favorites, which is what makes his latest tweet so exciting. On Saturday he shared a brief look at the upcoming music video for the track, which will drop on Monday and no doubt hit us all right in the feels (and finally give some context to those hilarious photos of him soaring through the air). The next few days are going to be rife with anticipation, but as usual, he's worth waiting for.
8 Tips For Making Your Airport Experience a Breeze
Running through an airport in attempt to catch your flight on time is the stuff of nightmares. And security these days? It can be brutal. If the entire process of getting through the airport stresses you out from start to finish, try these easy tips to make your next trip a breeze.
1. Download the airline app.
Do it before you arrive at the airport (ideally the day before so that you can check in). The app will alert you to any flight delays, cancellations, and gate changes; allow you to choose or change your seat; and will give you real-time flight information that may be essential to your travels. You can also use the app to access your mobile boarding pass. Some airlines, like United, have apps that also allow travelers to access entertainment through the WiFi but only if you have the app before you're in the air.
2. Give yourself time.
Word to the wise: don't cut it close when it comes to air travel. There are too many things that can go wrong - traffic on the way to the airport, long lines at check-in or security, changes in gates, or other issues with the airline - to risk waiting until the very last minute to head to the airport. Give yourself time so that you don't have to panic that you're going to miss your flight. Running through the airport and barely making it your gate on time is no fun - trust me.
3. Carry on your luggage.
Carrying on your luggage means avoiding the lines for checking your bags and eliminates the possibility of your items getting lost or damaged. Skip the hassle, and bring everything on board with you for an overall less stressful airport experience.
4. Pack smart.
You'd be surprised just how much better your airport experience can be if you know how to pack smart. If you're carrying on your luggage instead of checking it, then going through airport security can be stressful unless you've organized your belongings in the most efficient way for getting past TSA. Don't pack liquids that are more than 3.4 ounces, pack your laptops in a place that's easy to reach since many airports require that you remove them when going through security, and have anything else that may need to be taken out (like your toiletries) easily accessible.
5. Be prepared to go through security.
"Digging through your carry-on while everyone glares at you is literally the worst feeling, so double, triple check to make sure that you don't have anything in your carry-on that'll hold up the line. Start taking off the items that need to go into the bin and onto the conveyor belt before you actually get there," says iFly Luggage. Get through airport security faster by being prepared long before it's your turn.
6. Bring a water bottle and snacks.
You never know when hunger may hit you, and there's nothing worse than a growling stomach in a long line, or worse, on a long flight. "Airports are stressful enough without hunger taking over and making those long lines an even bigger nightmare," says iFly. Make sure your snack game is on lock with goodies like granola bars, fresh fruit (firmer is better), trail mix, and pretzels and hummus (just make sure to keep it under 3.4 ounces). Pack a water bottle that you can empty before you go through security, then refill on the other side, in order to save you money.
7. Always have entertainment on hand.
Download your favorite movies, TV shows, and games to your phone or iPad, and always have a physical book or magazine available as backup in case any of your devices die. You'll be glad you have something to keep your mind off airport lines, delayed flights, and frustrating fellow travelers.
8. Be nice to airport employees!
This is a big one. "Airport employees work long, demanding hours. They deal with hundreds of people a day and they've got to work quickly and efficiently while under all kinds of pressure. Kindness is contagious, pass it on," says iFly. Being nice to airport employees (or flight attendants, for that matter) can go a long way, especially if there's an issue with your flight. You'll find that people are more willing to help out a smiling traveler than one who is on the defensive or angry.
5 Healthy Lessons I Learned Traveling For a Month Straight
I'm the kind of person that's always on the go. The thing is, living in New York City, there are so many opportunities to be constantly moving. From early morning yoga class to a coffee meeting, from coffee meeting to the office, from the office to a dinner date, from dinner date to OMFG get me to bed. And while it's one thing to live a nonstop lifestyle in the comfort of my own city, it's a whole other beast to take it on the road.
When a series of invites came my way that culminated in what would be a month of travel, I knew things were about to get interesting. On the agenda: Albuquerque, Hartford, Austin, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs - all within a 30-day span. Sounds like a blast, right? Right. But, here's the thing: travel can be a wreck on progress and stressful. I'm Italian, which means indulging is in my blood. I'm also really active, which means I knew that indulging for a month straight with no activity was not an option. I was on a mission to not wreck my body and mind in the process.
1. There's no time like the present to prepare
My flight to Albuquerque, the first stop on my US tour, was early morning. Standard practice for me at airports usually involves ordering an iced coffee and some sort of egg sandwich at Starbucks. Not this time around, buddy. The night before my trip, I did a quick grocery stop, grabbing a yogurt to eat for the cab ride to the airport, as well as some RXBARS to eat throughout the trip - especially in lieu of the oh-so-tempting Jet Blue blue chips. I felt strangely proud of myself for turning them down and even more proud of myself that I reached for an apple as soon as I got to my hotel (and tossed another in my bag for later). I realized that having these smaller items available to me for when hunger kicked in helped prevent me from overdoing it at meals, especially after logging a slew of miles on both days in New Mexico.
This preparation stuck with me from Albuquerque to Los Angeles, which lead to a road trip to Palm Springs. Roughly a three-hour drive, I was determined NOT to stop at In-N-Out, SmashBurger, [insert name of other popular West Coast chain, here]. So, my girlfriend and I prepped a bag, full of everything from chicken sandwiches and fruit salad to copious amounts of water (another thing I'm guilty of skimping on during vacation). To be honest, I didn't even feel tempted to stop because I was amped on our healthy eats.
2. Pick a drink, and stick with it
Oh, travel and alcohol. Austin was the first spot on my journey where drinking constantly was an option. Not only did I have a fair amount of free time by the pool but I also had a group of guy friends from college in town for a bachelor party. Translation: "Let's drink!" I made the decision to treat myself to two drinks maximum during the day. Since it was warm outside, I didn't want to be guzzling alcohol in place of water. For those two drinks, I chose rosé instead of the frozen temptations on tap.
The same temptations happened in Palm Springs. This time around, in 90-degree heat, I treated myself to a piña colada (when in Rome) as I soaked in the fun Ace Hotel vibes. But after that, I was smarter about my strategy. Doing a little more play than work while there, I made sure to choose single liquor options, which boast far fewer calories than mixed drinks and other warm-weather favorites.
3. Find time for self care
Lately, I've been on this self-care kick. I was determined to bring my essential rituals on the road with me. Writing in a journal every morning before starting my day, in silence, has been a game changer. Whether it was at 5:30 a.m. for a trail run in Albuquerque or 7:15 for an early morning breakfast in Hartford, I made sure to set my alarm a smidge earlier to give myself some quiet time.
That time also translated to the car mid-California road trip. It wasn't until I got settled and hit a 100-mile stretch of highway that I realized just how therapeutic the sound of silence could be inside the comfort of my rental Buick Encore. Granted, it had been a few years since I took a legit road trip, being that I'm a New Yorker and all who sold her car five years ago, but I never remembered it being this quiet in a cab. Turns out, Buick uses an Acoustic Laminated Glass that helps block outside noise and some sort of active noise cancellation that counteracts engine noise. Hello, mental solace. Having that time to Zen out made me ready for whatever, and whoever, crossed my path.
4. Activity doesn't have to happen in bulk
While New Mexico and Austin both allotted me chunks of time in my schedule dedicated to fitness, like stand-up paddleboarding (FYI: A mile of SUP is no joke), and biking, Connecticut and Los Angeles were the complete opposite. Being on the West Coast worked in my favor, as my internal clock had me up and functioning with the sun. My early morning habit allowed me to sneak in some morning miles or a quick HIIT workout.
The reality, though? I didn't want to spend large chunks of time working out on these trips. The solution? Quick, app-based workouts I could do in the comfort of my hotel room or by the pool, at an hour when other people weren't staring at me like WTF. My go-to choices, including Aaptiv, Fitner, and Sworkit, had great options for different scenarios. While Aaptiv offered yoga flows for those mornings where I may have had one-too-many glasses of rosé the night before, Sworkit provided a slew of bodyweight workouts that could be done in under 15 minutes. Even those quick burners made me feel like a more productive human for the rest of my day.
5. Stay at a hotel that's on the same page as you
In and out of five different hotels during the month, I hands down couldn't get enough of the Westin I stayed at in downtown Austin. If I didn't want to do a session in my room, I could head up to the gym that lead me straight to the roof deck pool. Postworkout, they also had everything I would have wanted back in New York City: pressed juices, bikes available to flush out my legs, and breakfast options that didn't make me feel like I totally wasted my time working out in the first place. The provided gym clothes, that they also offered to wash, didn't hurt either. Not around a Westin? Don't worry: loads of other favorites are jumping on the healthy stay bandwagon, including Even, Hyatt, and Dream Hotels.
Travel and expenses for the author were provided by Buick and The Westin for the purpose of writing this story.
5 Healthy Lessons I Learned Traveling For a Month Straight
I'm the kind of person that's always on the go. The thing is, living in New York City, there are so many opportunities to be constantly moving. From early morning yoga class to a coffee meeting, from coffee meeting to the office, from the office to a dinner date, from dinner date to OMFG get me to bed. And while it's one thing to live a nonstop lifestyle in the comfort of my own city, it's a whole other beast to take it on the road.
When a series of invites came my way that culminated in what would be a month of travel, I knew things were about to get interesting. On the agenda: Albuquerque, Hartford, Austin, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs - all within a 30-day span. Sounds like a blast, right? Right. But, here's the thing: travel can be a wreck on progress and stressful. I'm Italian, which means indulging is in my blood. I'm also really active, which means I knew that indulging for a month straight with no activity was not an option. I was on a mission to not wreck my body and mind in the process.
1. There's no time like the present to prepare
My flight to Albuquerque, the first stop on my US tour, was early morning. Standard practice for me at airports usually involves ordering an iced coffee and some sort of egg sandwich at Starbucks. Not this time around, buddy. The night before my trip, I did a quick grocery stop, grabbing a yogurt to eat for the cab ride to the airport, as well as some RXBARS to eat throughout the trip - especially in lieu of the oh-so-tempting Jet Blue blue chips. I felt strangely proud of myself for turning them down and even more proud of myself that I reached for an apple as soon as I got to my hotel (and tossed another in my bag for later). I realized that having these smaller items available to me for when hunger kicked in helped prevent me from overdoing it at meals, especially after logging a slew of miles on both days in New Mexico.
This preparation stuck with me from Albuquerque to Los Angeles, which lead to a road trip to Palm Springs. Roughly a three-hour drive, I was determined NOT to stop at In-N-Out, SmashBurger, [insert name of other popular West Coast chain, here]. So, my girlfriend and I prepped a bag, full of everything from chicken sandwiches and fruit salad to copious amounts of water (another thing I'm guilty of skimping on during vacation). To be honest, I didn't even feel tempted to stop because I was amped on our healthy eats.
2. Pick a drink, and stick with it
Oh, travel and alcohol. Austin was the first spot on my journey where drinking constantly was an option. Not only did I have a fair amount of free time by the pool but I also had a group of guy friends from college in town for a bachelor party. Translation: "Let's drink!" I made the decision to treat myself to two drinks maximum during the day. Since it was warm outside, I didn't want to be guzzling alcohol in place of water. For those two drinks, I chose rosé instead of the frozen temptations on tap.
The same temptations happened in Palm Springs. This time around, in 90-degree heat, I treated myself to a piña colada (when in Rome) as I soaked in the fun Ace Hotel vibes. But after that, I was smarter about my strategy. Doing a little more play than work while there, I made sure to choose single liquor options, which boast far fewer calories than mixed drinks and other warm-weather favorites.
3. Find time for self care
Lately, I've been on this self-care kick. I was determined to bring my essential rituals on the road with me. Writing in a journal every morning before starting my day, in silence, has been a game changer. Whether it was at 5:30 a.m. for a trail run in Albuquerque or 7:15 for an early morning breakfast in Hartford, I made sure to set my alarm a smidge earlier to give myself some quiet time.
That time also translated to the car mid-California road trip. It wasn't until I got settled and hit a 100-mile stretch of highway that I realized just how therapeutic the sound of silence could be inside the comfort of my rental Buick Encore. Granted, it had been a few years since I took a legit road trip, being that I'm a New Yorker and all who sold her car five years ago, but I never remembered it being this quiet in a cab. Turns out, Buick uses an Acoustic Laminated Glass that helps block outside noise and some sort of active noise cancellation that counteracts engine noise. Hello, mental solace. Having that time to Zen out made me ready for whatever, and whoever, crossed my path.
4. Activity doesn't have to happen in bulk
While New Mexico and Austin both allotted me chunks of time in my schedule dedicated to fitness, like stand-up paddleboarding (FYI: A mile of SUP is no joke), and biking, Connecticut and Los Angeles were the complete opposite. Being on the West Coast worked in my favor, as my internal clock had me up and functioning with the sun. My early morning habit allowed me to sneak in some morning miles or a quick HIIT workout.
The reality, though? I didn't want to spend large chunks of time working out on these trips. The solution? Quick, app-based workouts I could do in the comfort of my hotel room or by the pool, at an hour when other people weren't staring at me like WTF. My go-to choices, including Aaptiv, Fitner, and Sworkit, had great options for different scenarios. While Aaptiv offered yoga flows for those mornings where I may have had one-too-many glasses of rosé the night before, Sworkit provided a slew of bodyweight workouts that could be done in under 15 minutes. Even those quick burners made me feel like a more productive human for the rest of my day.
5. Stay at a hotel that's on the same page as you
In and out of five different hotels during the month, I hands down couldn't get enough of the Westin I stayed at in downtown Austin. If I didn't want to do a session in my room, I could head up to the gym that lead me straight to the roof deck pool. Postworkout, they also had everything I would have wanted back in New York City: pressed juices, bikes available to flush out my legs, and breakfast options that didn't make me feel like I totally wasted my time working out in the first place. The provided gym clothes, that they also offered to wash, didn't hurt either. Not around a Westin? Don't worry: loads of other favorites are jumping on the healthy stay bandwagon, including Even, Hyatt, and Dream Hotels.
Travel and expenses for the author were provided by Buick and The Westin for the purpose of writing this story.
Cara Delevingne: It's "Exhausting" to Deal With Society's Beauty Standards
ICYMI, Cara Delevingne debuted a drastic hair change on the Met Gala red carpet this year: a shaved (and silver!) head. And now that the Gala hype has settled, she's using her new 'do as a platform to address society's outdated standards for beauty.
Over the past few weeks, the model-actress has been snipping her strands little by little to prepare for her role in the upcoming film Life in a Year. But when she arrived at the Costume Institute Gala on May 1, our jaws dropped at her bald head, which she bedazzled and painted silver to match her sexy pantsuit. And damn, did she rock it!
To elaborate on her new appearance, Cara recently took to Instagram to post two powerful photos; in the first, she's all dolled up in head-to-toe silver, and in the second, she's makeup-less and wearing a sweatshirt. Though the stark contrast between the two photos is certainly noticeable, it's her captions that really speak volumes, as she perfectly sums up exactly why society's definition for beauty is so darn f*cked up.
In the first snapshot, she speaks of how empowering it is to find beauty from within, writing, "The more we embrace who we are as people and rely less on our physical attributes, the more empowered we become." She then explained how there's no singular definition for beauty, which we couldn't agree more with. "Beauty shouldn't be so easily defined. It is limitless," she wrote.
In her second post, Cara got real and opened up about how it's "exhausting to be told what beauty should look like." Again, she challenged readers to look inwardly, not outwardly, to find true beauty. "Strip away the clothes, Wipe Off the make up, cut off the hair. Remove all the material possessions. Who are we? How are we defining beauty? What do we see as beautiful?" she wrote in the photo's caption. We thought it wasn't possible to love Cara anymore than we already do, but these eloquent words of wisdom just made our obsession grow even more.
What Happens in Vegas Really Stays in Vegas - See the Interesting Bachelor Party Stats
When you think of bachelor parties, you probably think of The Hangover, and while the majority of shindigs don't get that crazy, questionable activities definitely go down at many of them. Onlinegambling.ca surveyed 1,000 married Americans on what happens at bachelor and bachelorette parties, and you'll be surprised (or maybe not so surprised) at what the statistics revealed.
Nearly 12 percent said their SOs don't know the entire story, but interestingly, only 20 percent of men and almost 31 percent of women expect to hear the whole truth. See more stats below.
- One in nine people say they lied to their spouse about what happened at their party.
- One in four men and one in five women who went to Vegas parties said that the groom- or bride-to-be engaged in some kind of sexual activity.
- Only 25 percent of men and 35 percent of women think that you can't bend the rules of fidelity for a night.
- Only 20 percent of men and 31 percent of women wanted to know all the details.
What happens in Vegas . . .
Parties in Las Vegas were found to be a little crazier than non-Vegas gatherings.
- 48 percent of men and 38 percent of women flirted and got lap dances vs. 41 percent and 30 percent
- 26 percent of men and 33 percent of women did nothing sexual vs. 48 percent of men and 60 percent of women
- 17 percent of men and 9 percent of women had sex with someone who wasn't their partner vs. 4 and 2 percent
15 Mercantile Gifts For the Mom Who Is a Pioneer Woman at Heart
Even if you can't make it to Oklahoma to visit the Pioneer Woman's Mercantile Shop, you can shop for its country-themed goodies online. These particular gifts are perfect for the mom who dreams of living the farm life, one crocheted coaster at a time. Gift her with one of these items for Mother's Day, and she's sure to wrangle you up . . . in a tight hug!
30 Things That Grandparents Should Never Do
Grandparents are some of the most important figures in any child's life, and nobody wants to set a bad example! To ensure your grandkids the happiest family environment imaginable, there are a few steps to take as a grandma or grandpa. From inciting sugar-fueled chaos to behaving manipulatively toward family members, here are 30 things that grandparents should never do.
13 Fragrances Your Mom Will Love Spritzing
Chances are your mom has a signature scent she loves spritzing every day - let us guess: Amarige? Jean Naté? Charlie? Or maybe it's a celebrity creation. But don't let the fact she has a favorite fool you. Like any true perfume fan, that doesn't mean she wouldn't love to add another lovely aroma to her rotation.
These 13 Spring fragrances are perfect to wrap and give this Mother's Day. From light and ocean-like to smoky, look ahead to find what's sure to become her new favorite spritz.
30 Things That Grandparents Should Never Do
Grandparents are some of the most important figures in any child's life, and nobody wants to set a bad example! To ensure your grandkids the happiest family environment imaginable, there are a few steps to take as a grandma or grandpa. From inciting sugar-fueled chaos to behaving manipulatively toward family members, here are 30 things that grandparents should never do.
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