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 12 mai 2017
14 Everyday Struggles of Bilingual People
I speak 2.5 languages. I'm fluent in Spanish (my birth language) and English, and I know enough Italian to help a lost tourist in the subway. Though being able to communicate in more than one tongue has its serious benefits - there are more jobs available to me, I have an easier time when traveling abroad, some studies even say we're smarter (tooting my own horn here) - there are struggles. Boy, are there struggles.
More than once, I have spoken Spanish to someone who has no idea what I'm saying, and words have come out of my mouth in a total jumble of Spanglish that not even I understand. Minor issues, sure, but if you're bilingual, you know it doesn't end there. Keep reading for a list of the everyday situations you probably also face - bilinguals, unite!
14 Everyday Struggles of Bilingual People
I speak 2.5 languages. I'm fluent in Spanish (my birth language) and English, and I know enough Italian to help a lost tourist in the subway. Though being able to communicate in more than one tongue has its serious benefits - there are more jobs available to me, I have an easier time when traveling abroad, some studies even say we're smarter (tooting my own horn here) - there are struggles. Boy, are there struggles.
More than once, I have spoken Spanish to someone who has no idea what I'm saying, and words have come out of my mouth in a total jumble of Spanglish that not even I understand. Minor issues, sure, but if you're bilingual, you know it doesn't end there. Keep reading for a list of the everyday situations you probably also face - bilinguals, unite!
We Know You Love Yogurt: Here Are the Exact Ones You Should Be Buying
Looking for a big punch of satiating, muscle-building, weight-loss-boosting protein with debloating probiotics? You've come to the right place, and that place is the yogurt aisle of your local market.
But wait a minute - all this marketing and labeling can be confusing. What's truly "light" and nutritious? What's healthy but still tastes good? There are many hidden, sneaky sugars - and sometimes even chemicals - in unsuspecting "healthy" foods. Yogurt unfortunately is a top culprit in this instance.
But fear not: we've created this trusty guide to help you navigate the yogurts on offer in the grocery store, and today we're comparing vanillas. Let's start with our favorite nonfat vanilla options - lower in calories, but high in protein with a lower sugar count.
Brand (Nonfat, Vanilla) | Serving Size (g) | Calories | Protein | Sugar | Fat | Carbohydrates |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chobani | 150 | 110 | 13 | 13 | 0 | 15 |
Dannon Oikos Triple Zero | 150 | 120 | 15 | 6 | 0 | 14 |
Siggi's | 150 | 110 | 15 | 9 | 0 | 12 |
Smári | 170 | 140 | 8 | 14 | 0 | 16 |
Yoplait Greek 100 | 150 | 100 | 15 | 7 | 0 | 10 |
Not into nonfat? That's OK, too. In fact, full-fat is pretty darn good for you. If you're not trying to shave off the extra calories and want some nourishing, healthy fats, then these yogurts are the ones you want: creamy and delicious, but still packed with protein.
Brand (Whole Milk, Vanilla) | Serving Size (g) | Calories | Protein | Sugar | Fat | Carbohydrates |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Icelandic Provisions | 150 | 120 | 15 | 11 | 2 | 13 |
Siggi's | 125 | 140 | 12 | 8 | 4.5 | 11 |
Smári | 142 | 150 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 12 |
Stonyfield Organic Greek | 150 | 140 | 14 | 12 | 4.5 | 13 |
Tillamook Farmstyle Greek | 150 | 150 | 11 | 13 | 5 | 16 |
There Were a Handful of Suspects in JonBenét Ramsey's Murder, Including Her Own Parents
Image Source: ABC News
JonBenét Ramsey was only 6 years old when she was brutally murdered in her own home in December 1996, but the case has continued to fascinate the public in the more than 20 years since then. JonBenét's father, John, was the one who found her body on Dec. 26 in the basement of their Boulder, CO, home roughly eight hours after her parents reported her missing after they found a ransom note. An autopsy of JonBenét's body revealed that she was struck in the head and strangled to death. Police also later confirmed that she had been sexually assaulted.
Unlike other murder cases that go cold after years of being unsolved, JonBenét's has done the opposite and only continues to heat up. There have been a number of documentaries and TV specials about the murder, and most recently, Netflix released Casting JonBenet, its chilling take on why the intense media attention of the Ramsey family has failed to waver. JonBenét's murder remains unsolved to this day, but there were a few main suspects that police thought could have committed the horrific act.
1. John and Patsy Ramsey
Because it seemed so unlikely that kidnappers would kill their victim, leave the body in their own home, and still leave behind a ransom note, police were quick to turn their suspicions to JonBenét's parents, John and Patsy. Boulder police believed for many years that on the night of the murder, Patsy injured JonBenét in a fit of rage and either killed her while still angry or killed her to cover up an injury. In 1999, a Colorado grand jury voted to indict Patsy and John because they believed they were abusive toward their daughter, which eventually led to murder. In 2008, two years after Patsy died of ovarian cancer, prosecutors officially cleared the family of any wrongdoing.
Image Source: ABC News
2. Burke Ramsey
Despite looking closely at JonBenét's parents, police were clear that her older brother, Burke, who was 9 years old at the time of her murder, was never a main suspect. He was formally exonerated along with his parents in 2008, but he recently got a lot of unwanted attention when the CBS docuseries The Case Of: JonBenét Ramsey aired in September. In the show, a team of experts, which included a retired FBI agent and a behavioral analyst, came up with the theory that Burke was eating pineapple on that fateful Christmas Eve when his little sister came downstairs and took a piece of fruit from him (her autopsy revealed she had pineapple in her stomach at the time of her death). They suggested that Burke got angry and hit JonBenét in the head with a flashlight, breaking her skull. They theorized that John and Patsy Ramsey then attempted to cover up what Burke had done with the ransom note plan. The team also analyzed video footage of interviews police did with Bruke shortly after the murder, in which he shows no signs of trauma or emotional distress.
After the special aired, Burke was quick to fight back against the damning claims, telling Dr. Phil in a rare sit-down interview that he had nothing to do with his sister's death. "I know people think I did it, that my parents did it," he said. "I know that we were suspects. I want to honor her memory by doing this interview."
Image Source: ABC News
3. John Mark Karr
In a bizarre turn of events, former schoolteacher John Mark Karr, who appeared to have no connection to the Ramsey family or the case, confessed to killing JonBenét in graphic detail in 2006. After fleeing the US for Thailand after facing child pornography charges, Karr emailed professor Michael Tracey at the University of Colorado Boulder about a documentary Tracey was making about the case. After telling Tracey about his sexual fascination with JonBenét, Tracey reported him to the police. He was arrested in Thailand and immediately flown back to Colorado for questioning. Despite his detailed confession, which included saying he strangled JonBenét during a "love game" gone wrong, he was ultimately cleared after his DNA failed to match the profile of an unknown male's found at the crime scene. Police could also never confirm whether or not he had ever been to Boulder before, and he was quickly considered to be a pedophile just looking for fame.
Image Source: Getty / Paula Bronstein
4. Gary Oliva
Despite thinking that JonBenét's murder was committed by someone she knew, police did turn their attention to Boulder resident Gary Oliva, who was a 32-year-old sex offender living nearby at the time of her death. After Oliva was arrested in 2000 on drug charges, he quickly became a suspect when police reportedly found a magazine cutout of JonBenét in his backpack. He was released after his DNA also failed to match the crime scene, but the Ramsey family's longtime private investigator, Ollie Gray, criticized the Boulder police for not looking at him more closely. Olvia's high school friend, Michael Vail, also came forward and claimed that Oliva confessed to him that he "hurt a little girl" not long after the murder.
Another Electronics Ban Might Happen - This Time on European Flights to the US
On my 16-hour flight from Dubai to LAX in March 2017, my plans for working on the plane flew out the window. Due to the controversial electronics ban put in place by the Trump administration, my device had to be checked against my wishes. My experience is obviously just a mere inconvenience compared to the bigger issues with the electronics ban. It prohibits passengers from bringing any electronic device larger than a cell phone on board planes flying from very specific countries to the US and has been problematic for airlines and airports, for passengers, for security officials, and because of what it means for countless people across the world. Those opposed to the ban argue that it targets Muslim-majority countries (because it does), while others in support of it feel that it's necessary in order to increase international air travel safety. Now, a similar electronics security measure may be on its way to Europe.
The bad news is that the electronics ban - which currently applies to 10 Middle Eastern and North African airports - is potentially going to be put in place for flights from Europe to the United States. The "good" news is that at least we'll have a little more warning this time if it does occur. The original ban was enacted in response to alleged security threats (which were never specified), and European officials are reportedly readying themselves for the implications of a massive expansion of the measure.
I happened to be traveling through the Middle East at the time the administration's electronics ban was first enacted, and I can tell you from experience that the process was a clusterf*ck. Our flight was delayed almost two hours (it was definitely not Emirates's fault) because, due the abrupt passage of the rule, passengers had to pull out their electronics one by one and get them bubbled wrapped, boxed, and sent to checked baggage all at the gate as we tried to board the plane. Europe is prepping for what the ban may mean for airlines and airports across the continent.
"We're expecting something to happen, we're just not sure exactly what or when," a senior executive at a major European airline told CNN. An intelligence official told The New York Times that the Europe electronics ban "was being considered because of concerns that radicalized citizens of European Union nations or people with dual citizenship could target United States-bound fights."
Another government official speaking on the condition of anonymity told NYT that the new ban was being considered "because the American government considered immigration policies in Europe to be lax," adding that there is also concern that "the ban adopted in March might not stop a terrorist with a bomb-rigged laptop from simply flying to Europe to catch a United States-bound flight."
Check back for updates on when and if a new electronics ban is indeed coming to Europe.
A Celebrity Stylist Reveals How to Get the Best Beach Waves of Your Life This Summer
For most, when they hear the words "effortlessly sexy hair," beach waves come to mind. But unless you're particularly handy with hot tools (or just blessed with perfectly tousled texture), achieving that look is not quite as simple as it looks.
There are a couple of issues at play here. If you have straight hair, you might relate to our eternal struggle to appear as if we just stepped off a boardwalk rather than looking like a sea witch. And even if you have exactly the right curls naturally, you could still be screwed over at the salon. No matter where you go, practically every stylist has a different definition of beach waves (and god help you if you don't bring a celebrity photo for reference). You never know if you'll hit the jackpot or end up looking far more matronly than marvelous.
To ensure you end up with exactly the sexy, lived-in look you're craving, we consulted Chris Appleton, Color Wow ambassador and the mane man of Kim Kardashian, Jourdan Dunn, and more celebrities. He outlined four different types of hair textures and revealed exactly how they should be styled (step by step!) for beach waves. Not only that, but he also provided the lingo women need to say while in the salon chair to get the stylish strands of their dreams. Read on!
12 Cheap Amazon Prime Gems For Foodies
Amazon is really stepping up its game with its new Interesting Finds section. I've admittedly gotten lost in the beautiful stream of retro, hipster goodies, especially those that every food-lovin' person needs (or, you know, wants desperately). A few cheap but awesome items worth mentioning? I can't say no to the pipe tea diffuser. Then there's also the multipurpose stovetop/coffee maker/toaster oven appliance that I wish I had during my college days. All of these items are available through Amazon Prime for speedy delivery, so look ahead and prepare to swoon.
We Know You Love Yogurt: Here Are the Exact Ones You Should Be Buying
Looking for a big punch of satiating, muscle-building, weight-loss-boosting protein with debloating probiotics? You've come to the right place, and that place is the yogurt aisle of your local market.
But wait a minute - all this marketing and labeling can be confusing. What's truly "light" and nutritious? What's healthy but still tastes good? There are many hidden, sneaky sugars - and sometimes even chemicals - in unsuspecting "healthy" foods. Yogurt unfortunately is a top culprit in this instance.
But fear not: we've created this trusty guide to help you navigate the yogurts on offer in the grocery store, and today we're comparing vanillas. Let's start with our favorite nonfat vanilla options - lower in calories, but high in protein with a lower sugar count.
Brand (Nonfat, Vanilla) | Serving Size (g) | Calories | Protein | Sugar | Fat | Carbohydrates |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chobani | 150 | 110 | 13 | 13 | 0 | 15 |
Dannon Oikos Triple Zero | 150 | 120 | 15 | 6 | 0 | 14 |
Siggi's | 150 | 110 | 15 | 9 | 0 | 12 |
Smári | 170 | 140 | 8 | 14 | 0 | 16 |
Yoplait Greek 100 | 150 | 100 | 15 | 7 | 0 | 10 |
Not into nonfat? That's OK, too. In fact, full-fat is pretty darn good for you. If you're not trying to shave off the extra calories and want some nourishing, healthy fats, then these yogurts are the ones you want: creamy and delicious, but still packed with protein.
Brand (Whole Milk, Vanilla) | Serving Size (g) | Calories | Protein | Sugar | Fat | Carbohydrates |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Icelandic Provisions | 150 | 120 | 15 | 11 | 2 | 13 |
Siggi's | 125 | 140 | 12 | 8 | 4.5 | 11 |
Smári | 142 | 150 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 12 |
Stonyfield Organic Greek | 150 | 140 | 14 | 12 | 4.5 | 13 |
Tillamook Farmstyle Greek | 150 | 150 | 11 | 13 | 5 | 16 |
Prepare Yourselves, Adrenaline Junkies - This Water Park in Dubai Is Incredible!
Looking for a thrill? We are obsessing over Aquaventure Waterpark in Dubai. There's massive water slides, shark dives, and zip lining all in one place. When you need a break from all of the excitement, you can float down the park's river or chill in a cabana.
Make sure to get tickets ahead of time - it costs about $71 USD per person for a visit. The cost is totally worth it for the variety of activities available to you. You'll also be impressed by the spectacular views you can see at the top of the water slides. Dubai has never looked so good. Make sure to check out all the epic photos ahead.
Dive Into This Summer's Best New Beach Reads!
Ah, Summer. The days are warmer, the nights are longer, and everyone seems a little bit more carefree. There is a seemingly endless supply of new books out, but I'm here to help you sort through all of them. As an author myself, I firmly believe that you should never leave the house without a book. I've got a list of Summer books that will fit perfectly into your beach bag, so read on for the 24 best books of Summer!
12 Cheap Amazon Prime Gems For Foodies
Amazon is really stepping up its game with its new Interesting Finds section. I've admittedly gotten lost in the beautiful stream of retro, hipster goodies, especially those that every food-lovin' person needs (or you know, wants desperately). A few cheap but awesome items worth mentioning? I can't say no to the pipe tea difuser. Then there's also the multi-purpose stovetop/coffee maker/toaster oven appliance that I wish I had during my college days. All of these items are available through Amazon Prime for speedy delivery, so scroll forth and prepare to swoon.
7 Men Who Romanced Pippa Middleton Before Her Fiancé Put a Ring on It
Pippa Middleton is planning a lavish wedding to her longtime love, James Matthews, and will tie the knot in May. But before James popped the question, he put in a lot of work to get Pippa to settle down with him and has reportedly "always held a torch" for her. From a diamond heir and distant relative of Winston Churchill to the guy who was her date to the royal wedding, we're taking a look back at the men who dated the duchess's sister in the past.
7 Men Who Romanced Pippa Middleton Before Her Fiancé Put a Ring on It
Pippa Middleton is planning a lavish wedding to her longtime love, James Matthews, and will tie the knot in May. But before James popped the question, he put in a lot of work to get Pippa to settle down with him and has reportedly "always held a torch" for her. From a diamond heir and distant relative of Winston Churchill to the guy who was her date to the royal wedding, we're taking a look back at the men who dated the duchess's sister in the past.
Here's How Anyone Can Run For Office (Including You!)
Image Source: Getty / David MacNew
In the wake of Donald Trump's election, many people felt the need to make their voices heard. For some, protests such as the Women's March were their first outlet for expressing their concerns about the new president. But after that visceral first reaction, the question became: now what?
One of the most direct ways to make your voice heard and make an impact is to run for office, but many ordinary citizens are intimidated by the idea. We talked to some experts and put together a few guidelines to help people understand what it means to run for office and which resources are available to them.
Step 1: Find Out Which Public Office Positions Are Open Near You
Running for office doesn't have to mean running for mayor or Congress. There are many local positions citizens can run for, such as city councils and school boards. These positions are arguably less intimidating than federal public offices, but they remain essential to shaping policies and giving a voice to others who may share your concerns.
The problem is, these elections are typically much less publicized, and just finding out about them can be a challenge. Fortunately, resources like Run For Office are working to make it easier by building a database that lists all the upcoming elections in your district, along with details about the application process and filing deadlines. However, the database is still a work in progress, relying on volunteers and crowdsourcing to complete the information.
"It's such a monumental effort," said Gina Davis, vice president of professional services at the software company NationBuilder and one of the people heading Run For Office. "No one knows how many elected positions there are in the country, but it's estimated at over 500,000. Getting the data for those positions in the various different parts of the country is quite the effort."
"The number of elected offices is pretty incredible," Davis added. "There are places in Massachusetts where you can run for dog catcher. People don't know about them, people aren't running for them, and so many of them end up uncontested or, even worse, appointed if no one runs." Sites like Run For Office are a great place to start to get a comprehensive view of which public offices are available to you.
Step 2: Figure Out What Really Matters to You
Once you've researched your options, it's time to reflect on what issues matter the most to you and how you could contribute and change policy for the better.
"Consider what you're passionate about," advised Alexandra De Luca, deputy press secretary at Emily's List, an organization that helps pro-choice Democratic women run for office. "Do you want to improve public schools in your community? Do you want to ensure that the water in your community is drinkable? Do you want to defend voting rights for all Americans? Do you want to make sure that Muslims and other minorities in this country are kept safe?"
Image Source: Getty / Ron Jenkins
Thinking about your priorities, or why you want to run for office, can not only help you decide which public office to set your sights on, but it can also help you begin to articulate what you can contribute in a way that other people (potential voters) can relate to.
Davis suggested people ask themselves, "What is the thing that you'd like to accomplish? How is it that you want to lead and make a difference? How do you want to lead your district? Put your thoughts and ideas into words, in a way that allows you to connect with other people who may be feeling the same."
Whatever you choose, make sure it's something you really care about, as that will be a deciding factor in whether you are able to run successfully.
"We believe all women are qualified to run for office if they are passionate about their community, and if there are issues with which they want to engage in order to fight back," said De Luca. "Women run for two reasons: when they want to fix something or when they're mad as hell. That's what it takes: passion, drive, and determination."
Step 3: Contact Organizations That Can Help You
Once you've thought through your options and made some preliminary decisions, it's time to reach out directly to organizations whose goal is to help ordinary, inexperienced citizens run for office. There are many resources available to you, and these groups are here to give you support and information, no matter how green you are.
For example, Run For Office offers free online training that covers the basics of the process.
"We provide free online courses that actually break down some of the specifics about running for office," said Davis. "Like, 'You need 50 percent of the vote, plus one. Historically, 200-300 people in this district have voted, so that's 150 people you need to reach.' Just understanding that makes it a whole lot less daunting. It's a lot less intimidating."
Run For Office also provides its candidates with lists of registered voters for their districts, so that candidates know exactly who to contact, and how.
Emily's List has had significant success in its 32 years of existence. Indeed, it has helped 23 women get elected to the Senate - including Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren - and 116 to the House, plus 800 at the state and local levels and 12 governors. Over 40 percent of these elected officials belonged to a minority group. The group's accumulated experience, resources, and network can significantly help a political novice.
"Emily's List can help you learn how to actually run a campaign, can get you in touch with folks who have been running campaigns in your community for decades," said De Luca. "It can help you learn how to fundraise, teach you how to write a press release."
There are many other organizations that want to bring new people into politics, especially those who are currently underrepresented. She Should Run is another group that aims to get more women into politics. Run For Something aims to recruit young progressives to run for office, in order to renew the Democratic party from the roots up.
Step 4: Put In the Time to Network and Reach Out
While all these organizations have a network of resources already in place, running for office eventually means creating your own network and connecting with people by highlighting your own qualities and background. This means attending events and talking to people.
"We encourage any woman who is looking to run for office to go to local Democratic party meetings, city council meetings, and volunteer opportunities," said De Luca. "Show up and participate in causes that you care about. Not only will you be giving back to your community, but you'll also be expanding your network and meeting people in your community that care about the issues you care about."
"If you run for office, you're going to have to share your story with people who are presumably going to vote for you," she added. "People don't only want to know why you're running for office but also what your story is. If you're a single mom who really struggled with being able to provide for her family and also juggle jobs at the same time, that's a really powerful experience that a lot of women in your community, and men as well, can identify with."
It's likely that many people are discouraged from running for office by the idea that it's a time-consuming endeavor. Organizations are working to dispel the notion that running for office is any different from other forms of civic or community engagement.
"If it matters to you, and it's a thing that you value, you're going to find the time," said Davis. "Being involved in the politics in your environment, your neighborhood, your community is no more involved than making that same choice to be really involved in your PTA, or the neighborhood watch, or whatever other type of additional work you might take on."
This strategy of demystifying running for office, coupled with the strong opposition against President Trump, seems to be working: since the election, over 10,000 women have contacted Emily's List, expressing interest in either volunteering or running for office. To put that into perspective, in the 22 months preceding the election, there were less than 1,000.
Amal Clooney Waited 6 Months to Decorate Her Nursery For Good Reason
George and Amal Clooney are less than a month away from the arrival of their twins. While we already know the happy couple will be welcoming home a boy and a girl, thanks to a slip up by George Clooney's mom, we're only just now learning more details about the twins' nursery. According to sources over at E!, George and Amal waited six months before decorating their babies' room because "they didn't want to rush or jinx things."
The couple, who recently built a panic room in their 17th century English manor, reportedly sought out London-based interior designer Ilse Crawford to help make their dream nursery come true. The Clooneys were reportedly very hands-on with the decorating process, even selecting many of the nursery decor pieces themselves. According to the E! report, a few of the nursery items were purchased at Baudou, a boutique in Paris. We can't wait to get a sneak peek at the nursery, but until then, these stunning photos of their new Manhattan apartment will have to hold us over.
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!
8 Spiked Iced Coffee Recipes to Get You Buzzed and Cool You Off
Warm weather means it's time to make the switch from hot coffee to iced coffee. And on those days when you need a little extra boost, why not spike it? We've rounded up eight happy-hour-approved iced coffee recipes that will cool you off and get you buzzed at the same time.
This '90s Trend With Ancient Mayan Roots Is Primed For a Huge Comeback
At the 2017 Met Gala, Hailey Baldwin flashed a cocky smile to reveal two sparkling gems affixed to her teeth. A picture of the moment promptly garnered over 400,000 "likes" and launched a series of conjectures about tooth gems being the next big cosmetic trend. Just a few months before, Katy Perry sported a tiny gold gem in the shape of the Nike logo. As these things go, tooth gems are not new. In fact, they're ancient.
According to National Geographic, inhabitants of ancient Mesoamerica accessorized their teeth with semiprecious gems. A centuries-old skull found in Chiapas, Mexico, even had teeth gems worn in a manner not unlike our own contemporary version.
Centuries later, tooth gems resurfaced with the popularization of grills in the hip-hop scene of the 1980s. Grills maintained their popularity well into the new millennium thanks in part to the 2005 Nelly song "Grillz."
Recently, many celebrities and fashion influencers have gotten their gems implanted by Tooth Kandy, a Los Angeles-based shop. According to the Tooth Kandy website, gems typically last anywhere from six months to two years depending on the type of gem used. Gems are attached to the enamel using a semipermanent adhesive. Dentists have, however, expressed their concerns for how gems might affect the enamel.
Ahead, see how people are wearing the trend in its latest iteration.
The Unexpected Painful Side Effects I Experienced With My IUD
So many friends raved about their Mirena experiences, and even my doctor really encouraged me to give it a try. According those I spoke to and the countless online research I did, the side effects were minimal. And so I took a leap of faith, feeling hopeful that this birth control option would be a positive one for me. Sure, the insertion is not fun, but I had been through it before when I had the copper IUD. "Your pain tolerance is so high!" My doctor applauded me. "Labor will be NBD for you." I walked away from the office feeling confident and self-assured. And I was so, so happy with the choice at first. Everything was awesome! I loved my job, loved my boyfriend, loved life!
Then, without warning, things started to go awry. It started with weight gain. I'm an active person, but just a few months after getting the IUD, I found myself carrying an extra 15 pounds. I couldn't button the top button of even my biggest pair of jeans. At first, I thought, "OK! No sweat." I hired a trainer, started eating healthier, and stopped eating sweets. The weight didn't go away, despite my best efforts. Instead of accepting this new body, I found myself frustrated and obsessed. I went to extremes to try and return to "normal." I gave up sugar and cut way back on drinking. I was getting stronger, but I couldn't seem to celebrate that.
Then, the intense fatigue set in. I'm normally a positive person who jumps out of bed in the morning, but I found myself slowly unable to pick myself back up. I woke up dreading the day, hitting snooze on repeat, and looking forward to only one thing: going back to sleep. I stopped participating in extracurricular activities. I couldn't cope without 10 hours of sleep. I was constantly irritable and upset with myself and others. This person was not me! Sure, my period was lighter, but I started getting migraines and yeast infections regularly. You can get a clear picture of what that did to my love life . . . or should I say complete lack thereof.
I went to my doctor three months in, and she responded, "Oh. There's an adjustment period. Give it time. At least six months." But by six months in, I felt like I was drowning in depression. I couldn't "feel better." At the time, I felt like no one took me seriously - which was a very scary thought to have. Worse, I felt like no one cared or could see that I was spiraling. Everything in my life was so great, so why didn't I feel that way? I was determined to make the IUD work. "It's paid for! It lasts so many years! I'm at fault for feeling the way I do, not my birth control. Get a grip!" I kept telling myself over and over.
I gave it eight months. I was recovering from two infections down below and decided, "Enough!" The one variable that wasn't working in my life was this IUD. I first confided in a few friends (who are licensed therapists) about what I was going through. Having that support and validation gave me the courage to move forward with the removal. I went to a different doctor. I burst into tears the second I entered her office. I couldn't believe I had gone against my intuition for so long. While she recommended that I take an antidepressant so that I didn't feel like "the rug was being pulled from under me," I opted not to.
She warned that I may have a "Mirena crash" as my body's hormones stabilize. While I have had some low days since the removal two months ago, it's nothing like I experienced when I had the IUD. I actually have hope and see the signs that I'm returning to my normal self, slowly but surely.
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!
8 Spiked Iced Coffee Recipes to Get You Buzzed and Cool You Off
Warm weather means it's time to make the switch from hot coffee to iced coffee. And on those days when you need a little extra boost, why not spike it? We've rounded up eight happy-hour-approved iced coffee recipes that will cool you off and get you buzzed at the same time.
Will Kate Middleton Be in Pippa's Wedding? Yes, but Also No
Kate Middleton will be in attendance with her husband, Prince William, as well as their kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, at the wedding of her sister, Pippa, next month. However, she won't be as big of a part of the wedding as Pippa was for hers - remember when she was the breakout star at Westminster Abbey?
Back in December when Pippa's wedding date was released, it was reported that Kate would not be acting as Pippa's maid of honor because she didn't want to "upstage her sister" (awww). So while she won't be, say, carrying Pippa's train down the aisle or standing near her at the altar, Kate will likely do a reading during the ceremony. After Pippa and James say their vows at the St. Mark's Englefield in Berkshire, UK, they and their wedding guests will travel the six miles to Carole and Michael Middleton's home in Bucklebury for a reception in their 18-acre garden.
Of Kate taking a smaller role in the wedding, veteran royals author Judy Wade told People last year: "It's a tricky situation for Pippa. She would want her sister by her side, as who else would she trust to make things go well? But if your sister is a future Queen, she is going to upstage the bride and draw attention. Kate would want to be in the background as much as possible."
Will Kate Middleton Be in Pippa's Wedding? Yes, but Also No
Kate Middleton will be in attendance with her husband, Prince William, as well as their kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, at the wedding of her sister, Pippa, next month. However, she won't be as big of a part of the wedding as Pippa was for hers - remember when she was the breakout star at Westminster Abbey?
Back in December when Pippa's wedding date was released, it was reported that Kate would not be acting as Pippa's maid of honor because she didn't want to "upstage her sister" (awww). So while she won't be, say, carrying Pippa's train down the aisle or standing near her at the altar, Kate will likely do a reading during the ceremony. After Pippa and James say their vows at the St. Mark's Englefield in Berkshire, UK, they and their wedding guests will travel the six miles to Carole and Michael Middleton's home in Bucklebury for a reception in their 18-acre garden.
Of Kate taking a smaller role in the wedding, veteran royals author Judy Wade told People last year: "It's a tricky situation for Pippa. She would want her sister by her side, as who else would she trust to make things go well? But if your sister is a future Queen, she is going to upstage the bride and draw attention. Kate would want to be in the background as much as possible."
Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Trogneux's Relationship Is Raising Some Controversial Questions
Newly elected French President Emmanuel Macron and wife Brigitte Trogneux - who was Emmanuel's drama teacher in high school - are changing the way we talk about relationships, but they're raising a few eyebrows as well.
Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Trogneux's Relationship Is Raising Some Controversial Questions
Newly elected French President Emmanuel Macron and wife Brigitte Trogneux - who was Emmanuel's drama teacher in high school - are changing the way we talk about relationships, but they're raising a few eyebrows as well.
Cheesy Lobster Elote Will Make You Say, "Get in My Belly!"
Listen up, elote-lovers: lobster elote is here and you have to try it, ASAP. A fun twist on traditional elote recipes, the lobster version is made with fresh Maine lobster sliced in half and deep fried with seasoning. The lobster is then placed on top of french fries and topped with grilled corn, garlic aioli, and monterey jack cheese before broiling with gooey results.
The drool-worthy creation can be found at Dos Chinos restaurant, located in Santa Ana, CA, which serves an entire menu of Latin and Asian-fusion cuisine. Read on to see more photos of the cheesy lobster masterpiece.
26 Brilliant Books You Should Read This Spring
Who doesn't love Spring? The days get warmer, the sun gets brighter, and we can all see Summer in our sights. I've got a list of Spring books that will make you want to stay indoors this season (or, at the very least, bring a book outside with you!). Read on for the best new books of Spring!
This $185 Moscow Mule Weighs More Than a Human Baby, and You Can Actually Order It
Long day? We've got just the thing to take the edge off: a supercasual, definitely not-over-the-top cocktail that only weighs 10 friggin' pounds. The Mega Mule is a 164-ounce take on the classic moscow mule cocktail that's available at two locations in New York City, both The Beach at Dream Downtown and PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown, for $185.
The drink weighs as much as a human infant and is served in a massive copper mug, so you're sure to get a decent arm workout whenever you take a sip. Though, considering that the mega mule contains more than half a bottle of vodka or tequila (around 13 full shots), you might want to split it with several friends!
The price point is steep and this humongous drink certainly isn't messing around, but the Mega Mule is essentially the same as ordering a margarita pitcher for your table. At least . . . that's what we'll tell ourselves when we try making our own version at home! It's 5 o'clock somewhere, right? And imagine the a-mule-zing Instagram potential! So next time you're feeling thirsty in NYC, be sure to stop by and unwind with the biggest damn drink of your life.
All the Times William Was Prince Charming . . . and Prince Cheeky
The duke and duchess of Cambridge look great together, clearly adore each other, are the best of friends, and are happy parents to Prince George and Princess Charlotte - but when it comes to the glue that holds them together, it seems it's all about keeping the perfect balance between teasing and tenderness. Prince William usually seems to be the main culprit instigating both, so we're taking a look at all the times he's been Prince Charming for Kate Middleton vs. the times he's been more like Prince Cheeky.
This $185 Moscow Mule Weighs More Than a Human Baby, and You Can Actually Order It
Long day? We've got just the thing to take the edge off: a supercasual, definitely not-over-the-top cocktail that only weighs 10 friggin' pounds. The Mega Mule is a 164-ounce take on the classic moscow mule cocktail that's available at two locations in New York City, both The Beach at Dream Downtown and PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown, for $185.
The drink weighs as much as a human infant and is served in a massive copper mug, so you're sure to get a decent arm workout whenever you take a sip. Though, considering that the mega mule contains more than half a bottle of vodka or tequila (around 13 full shots), you might want to split it with several friends!
The price point is steep and this humongous drink certainly isn't messing around, but the Mega Mule is essentially the same as ordering a margarita pitcher for your table. At least . . . that's what we'll tell ourselves when we try making our own version at home! It's 5 o'clock somewhere, right? And imagine the a-mule-zing Instagram potential! So next time you're feeling thirsty in NYC, be sure to stop by and unwind with the biggest damn drink of your life.
Why Canada is wasting millions on useless knee surgeries
An international panel of experts is recommending against arthroscopic surgery for almost all patients with degenerative knee diseases such as arthritis.
jeudi 11 mai 2017
All the Times William Was Prince Charming . . . and Prince Cheeky
The duke and duchess of Cambridge look great together, clearly adore each other, are the best of friends, and are happy parents to Prince George and Princess Charlotte - but when it comes to the glue that holds them together, it seems it's all about keeping the perfect balance between teasing and tenderness. Prince William usually seems to be the main culprit instigating both, so we're taking a look at all the times he's been Prince Charming for Kate Middleton vs. the times he's been more like Prince Cheeky.
20 No-Fuss Summer Outfits That Take 2 Pieces or Less
For us, Summer's all about easy: poolside chillin', cocktail sippin', and throwing on the simplest thing we can find before leaving the house. But that's not to say we let our style status slip away during the warmer months. Rather, we search for best of both worlds - no-fuss and fashion-forward - finding inpiration from the best bloggers on Instagram.
Look through for some of chicest outfits we've spotted, all of which take - drumroll, please! - a mere two pieces or less, since you can pair them with any accessory or footwear options and they'll still work. Then, check out more easy, breezy looks you can actually wear to the office.
13 Feminist Graduation Cap Ideas For Badass Women
It's not every day that you graduate from college, so make your cap decor truly mean something. We love these positive feminist messages that will leave graduates feeling powerful and capable of anything. Being an intelligent woman is something to be proud of, so say it loud and proud. Check out these badass cap ideas.
20 No-Fuss Summer Outfits That Take 2 Pieces or Less
For us, Summer's all about easy: poolside chillin', cocktail sippin', and throwing on the simplest thing we can find before leaving the house. But that's not to say we let our style status slip away during the warmer months. Rather, we search for best of both worlds - no-fuss and fashion-forward - finding inpiration from the best bloggers on Instagram.
Look through for some of chicest outfits we've spotted, all of which take - drumroll, please! - a mere two pieces or less, since you can pair them with any accessory or footwear options and they'll still work. Then, check out more easy, breezy looks you can actually wear to the office.
Christy Turlington Burns Is Here to Make Childbirth Safe For Every Mother, Everywhere
The mission of Every Mother Counts is to make pregnancy and childbirth safe for every mother, everywhere. Keep scrolling to find out what drives this powerful mom of two, and support her organization this Mother's Day by sharing their #OrangeRose Mother's Day campaign.
Gear Up For Summertime Runs With These New Essentials
When the warmer weather isn't enough to get you outside for a workout, sometimes the best motivation for a run is some new gear! Here are some gorgeous (and ultracomfortable) new products we've been ogling and some we own already.
It Has Come to This: Your Nipple Color Is Your Perfect Lip Shade, Apparently
I'm spinning http://pic.twitter.com/urjZ8XfaZz
- cakedfacehijabi (@crayon_chomper) May 1, 2017
It's 2017, so this headline does not faze me. Maybe in 2014 I would be surprised to hear that the color of your nipple is a great hack for finding your perfect lip shade, but not today. We've seen it all: the Kylie Jenner shot glass challenge, using household items like a heel to contour, and one ballsy makeup-lover using her boyfriend's testicles to apply foundation. (Which I have so many concerns about. I don't want to smell like balls, thanks.)
Unlike these other internet trends, though, this one actually seems useful to me. I sit here, glancing at my nipple at the office while my co-workers look at me with genuine concern. Am I inspecting a mole? Did I drop a piece of food down my top? Did I just get pierced? No, my curious colleagues, I'm simply trying to decide if my nipple color is more of a Pillow Talk or an Angel.
This discussion began after someone tweeted a screenshot of an episode of The Doctors in which they discussed whether or not your nipple is your best lip shade. It was also reported that the color of your top lip is also the same shade as your nipple. This is enlightening, because I was of the opinion my bottom lip was also the shade of my top lip - apparently not!
The internet obviously felt some way about this.
just read that your nipple color is your most suitable lip shade and im kinda dumbstruck rn
- mellow chelle (@michellexgeorge) May 2, 2017
@crayon_chomper Someone create a lip line with products using every nipple color and make bank and bless up 🙌🏿
- Moyo 👑 (@movaughan97) May 1, 2017
I just saw that your nipple color is your best lip color...... so what do I do, whip out my tit in Sephora & say here match me?????
- Lacy Imry (@lacymimry) May 4, 2017
This paints a whole new picture when it comes to color matching. If I were in the market to make a beauty line, I'd create a slew of lip liners with names like "Are-hola," a bronzy-tan shade, "The Booby Trap," a pinky-beige, and "Simply the Breast," a deep mahogany.
Also, for what it's worth, may I kindly suggest you do not bust out your nips for the employees (and the free world) at Sephora? They have to deal with enough. No pictures either. If you must, blow up a photo of your nipple so you can only see the shade and it is does not look recognizable as your actual areola.
And in case you're wondering, turns out Pillow Talk is in fact my ideal shade. Thanks, Charlotte Tilbury!
It Has Come to This: Your Nipple Color Is Your Perfect Lip Shade, Apparently
I'm spinning http://pic.twitter.com/urjZ8XfaZz
- cakedfacehijabi (@crayon_chomper) May 1, 2017
It's 2017, so this headline does not faze me. Maybe in 2014 I would be surprised to hear that the color of your nipple is a great hack for finding your perfect lip shade, but not today. We've seen it all: the Kylie Jenner shot glass challenge, using household items like a heel to contour, and one ballsy makeup-lover using her boyfriend's testicles to apply foundation. (Which I have so many concerns about. I don't want to smell like balls, thanks.)
Unlike these other internet trends, though, this one actually seems useful to me. I sit here, glancing at my nipple at the office while my co-workers look at me with genuine concern. Am I inspecting a mole? Did I drop a piece of food down my top? Did I just get pierced? No, my curious colleagues, I'm simply trying to decide if my nipple color is more of a Pillow Talk or an Angel.
This discussion began after someone tweeted a screenshot of an episode of The Doctors in which they discussed whether or not your nipple is your best lip shade. It was also reported that the color of your top lip is also the same shade as your nipple. This is enlightening, because I was of the opinion my bottom lip was also the shade of my top lip - apparently not!
The internet obviously felt some way about this.
just read that your nipple color is your most suitable lip shade and im kinda dumbstruck rn
- mellow chelle (@michellexgeorge) May 2, 2017
@crayon_chomper Someone create a lip line with products using every nipple color and make bank and bless up 🙌🏿
- Moyo 👑 (@movaughan97) May 1, 2017
I just saw that your nipple color is your best lip color...... so what do I do, whip out my tit in Sephora & say here match me?????
- Lacy Imry (@lacymimry) May 4, 2017
This paints a whole new picture when it comes to color matching. If I were in the market to make a beauty line, I'd create a slew of lip liners with names like "Are-hola," a bronzy-tan shade, "The Booby Trap," a pinky-beige, and "Simply the Breast," a deep mahogany.
Also, for what it's worth, may I kindly suggest you do not bust out your nips for the employees (and the free world) at Sephora? They have to deal with enough. No pictures either. If you must, blow up a photo of your nipple so you can only see the shade and it is does not look recognizable as your actual areola.
And in case you're wondering, turns out Pillow Talk is in fact my ideal shade. Thanks, Charlotte Tilbury!
Gear Up For Summertime Runs With These New Essentials
When the warmer weather isn't enough to get you outside for a workout, sometimes the best motivation for a run is some new gear! Here are some gorgeous (and ultracomfortable) new products we've been ogling and some we own already.
Sen. Kamala Harris on Congressman's Tone-Deaf Healthcare Claim: "What the F*ck Is That?"
Senator Kamala Harris is not afraid to be blunt. The California lawmaker had some choice words about Idaho Rep. Raul Labrador's claim that "nobody dies" from lack of access to health care during her new interview on Pod Save America, a podcast started by former staffers of President Barack Obama.
"You might as well say, 'People don't starve because they don't have food,'" the California Senator said during the May 8 episode. "What the f*ck is that? What are you saying? How can you say that?"
Harris's remarks were hypercritical of the Congressman's mischaracterization of the proposed American Health Care Act, which would severely cut access to adequate health care and allow for the imposition of high premiums on people with preexisting conditions. As Harris pointed out, if people with preexisting conditions can no longer afford health insurance, they very well may die.
Following backlash against his outlandish claim, Representative Raul Labrador of Idaho walked back his comments. "I was responding to a false notion that the Republican health care plan will cause people to die in the streets, which I completely reject," Labrador wrote on Facebook.
Now that the ACHA has passed through the House, the Senate is expected to draft its own version of the bill. Speaking on the Democratic fight against the legislation, Harris told Pod Save America that lawmakers must speak the truth. "The truth is that these folks are playing politics with public health," Harris said. "The truth is that . . . if Republicans want people to lose their health care, then the Republicans needs to lose their jobs."
Every Royal Bride Has a Sprig of This 1 Flower in Her Bouquet
Spring is well and truly sprung! So what better way to celebrate than by taking a look at all of the royal family's favorite flowers. Which ones have a special meaning for Prince Harry? Which blooms does the queen have on her desk? And what was the secret meaning behind Kate's bridal bouquet? From blossom-drenched weddings to private palace gardens and poignant plantings to meaningful decades-long passion projects, we've rounded up all the royal flower inspiration you'll ever need.
Lea DeLaria Will Make You Petrified of Orange Is the New Black Season 5
It's been a long, cold Fall, Winter, and Spring without new episodes of Orange Is the New Black. Now, just as the sun is about to come out, we're heading indoors to binge on season five. If you thought things couldn't get worse after season four, you're wrong. The new episodes pick up right as Daya aims the gun at CO Humphrey and take place over to course of three days at Litchfield. Ahead of the premiere, I chatted with star Lea DeLaria about what's next for Big Boo and what to expect from the rest of the ladies.
POPSUGAR: Let's start with the question everyone's asking. Last season ended on such a note of frustration and rage with that cliffhanger - how is this season going to begin?
Lea DeLaria: Let's put it this way: the rage continues. I think you can tell that by the trailer . . . but let's just say, yeah, yeah, this season, the rage continues.
PS: One of the things that we love about the show is how you go to such dark places, but there are so many moments of levity. Are we going to see that in the new season?
LD: Oh, hell yes. This is a classic American dramedy. And what makes it that are those moments of real rage, darkness, drama and the real moments of laughter that you have. Since season one, that's been the signature of what our writing team does, and that will continue. Everybody thought I was going to shiv somebody with that screwdriver. In nobody's wildest dreams did they think, "Big Boo's going to MacGyver that into a dildo and pleasure herself into orgasm on screen." And that was f*cking hilarious. Some of the funniest moments come out of some the darkest places and vice versa. That's just a real indication of terrific writing ability, skills. Our people have such mad skills.
PS: So much of Big Boo's storyline has revolved around other people like Pennsatucky. Are we going to see more forward movement in Big Boo's life?
LD: I don't think Big Boo fans are going to be disappointed.
PS: I actually spoke to Kate Mulgrew last week, and she was saying that we're going to be "gobsmacked" by the story. How do you see audiences reacting to the new episodes?
LD: First of all, as a perfect gentleman, I would never disagree with a lady in public. As a budding actor - even though I'm 58 years old, I still feel like I'm a budding actor - I would never argue with Kate Mulgrew on anything. She's a goddamn God, OK? And I do happen to be in total agreement with her. You will be gobsmacked by it, and audiences are going to lose their minds. Season four was on every critic's list as the number one thing on television last year. . . . So when I say season five is better than season four, people are going to go, "What?" It is. I cannot figure out how we do it or how our writers are able to keep this show so fresh, so interesting, so weird, so unique, so amazing, informative, and life-changing season after season after season. Amazing.
PS: How was it for you to shoot a season that only takes place over three days? Was the vibe different on the set?
LD: What becomes difficult about it being a three-day period is just making sure that the time frame works. This is actor-y stuff, but . . . we spent a lot of time going, "What time is it? Where was I just? OK. Got it." It was kind of rough when you're shooting out of season. Costume-wise, it can be incredibly uncomfortable for an actor. And it's been my lot in life that whenever I am outdoors in any kind of seasonal shot, I am never dressed appropriately to the weather.
PS: It's just freezing where you guys are?
LD: Yeah. I had to film an outdoor scene and it was Winter in New York, but not in the show. So Boo was in her white beater and her uniform.
PS: I'll look out for goosebumps.
LD: It was bloody f*cking cold.
PS: Are there any details that you put into Big Boo, either over the course of the show or this season in particular, that you're hoping audiences pick up on?
LD: Well, I hope they see that she's butch.
PS: I don't know if they got that impression, actually.
LD: The only way that I put any detail [in] is with my staunch refusal to do anything that I don't think is authentic. However, I've never had to put my foot down in that arena at all at Orange Is the New Black. They've never asked me to do anything that I feel a butch dyke wouldn't do or Big Boo wouldn't do. I have had that issue on other sets where I've had to go, "You know, if I was a black person saying, 'This is something a black person wouldn't do,' you would listen to me. I need you to realize that a butch dyke is different than any other kind of lesbian and there are things that we do very authentically." I've never had to do that with Orange. They've always been right on it. I just hope that the audience sees that.
6 Fascinating Facts About the House Hunters Narrator That Will Leave You Speechless
Through the many exotic locales, harried couples, exasperated real estate agents, numerous spinoffs, and hundreds of properties seen on HGTV's House Hunters, there's one constant: the soothing lilt of the narrator's voice. Until now, not much was known about this mysterious woman who is never seen on camera. House Hunters narrator Andromeda Dunker opened up to BuzzFeed for a revealing interview, and we learned that she might be even more fascinating than the show she's famous for! Check out six of our favorite facts from the BuzzFeed article ahead.
Lea DeLaria Will Make You Petrified of Orange Is the New Black Season 5
It's been a long, cold Fall, Winter, and Spring without new episodes of Orange Is the New Black. Now, just as the sun is about to come out, we're heading indoors to binge on season five. If you thought things couldn't get worse after season four, you're wrong. The new episodes pick up right as Daya aims the gun at CO Humphrey and take place over to course of three days at Litchfield. Ahead of the premiere, I chatted with star Lea DeLaria about what's next for Big Boo and what to expect from the rest of the ladies.
POPSUGAR: Let's start with the question everyone's asking. Last season ended on such a note of frustration and rage with that cliffhanger - how is this season going to begin?
Lea DeLaria: Let's put it this way: the rage continues. I think you can tell that by the trailer . . . but let's just say, yeah, yeah, this season, the rage continues.
PS: One of the things that we love about the show is how you go to such dark places, but there are so many moments of levity. Are we going to see that in the new season?
LD: Oh, hell yes. This is a classic American dramedy. And what makes it that are those moments of real rage, darkness, drama and the real moments of laughter that you have. Since season one, that's been the signature of what our writing team does, and that will continue. Everybody thought I was going to shiv somebody with that screwdriver. In nobody's wildest dreams did they think, "Big Boo's going to MacGyver that into a dildo and pleasure herself into orgasm on screen." And that was f*cking hilarious. Some of the funniest moments come out of some the darkest places and vice versa. That's just a real indication of terrific writing ability, skills. Our people have such mad skills.
PS: So much of Big Boo's storyline has revolved around other people like Pennsatucky. Are we going to see more forward movement in Big Boo's life?
LD: I don't think Big Boo fans are going to be disappointed.
PS: I actually spoke to Kate Mulgrew last week, and she was saying that we're going to be "gobsmacked" by the story. How do you see audiences reacting to the new episodes?
LD: First of all, as a perfect gentleman, I would never disagree with a lady in public. As a budding actor - even though I'm 58 years old, I still feel like I'm a budding actor - I would never argue with Kate Mulgrew on anything. She's a goddamn God, OK? And I do happen to be in total agreement with her. You will be gobsmacked by it, and audiences are going to lose their minds. Season four was on every critic's list as the number one thing on television last year. . . . So when I say season five is better than season four, people are going to go, "What?" It is. I cannot figure out how we do it or how our writers are able to keep this show so fresh, so interesting, so weird, so unique, so amazing, informative, and life-changing season after season after season. Amazing.
PS: How was it for you to shoot a season that only takes place over three days? Was the vibe different on the set?
LD: What becomes difficult about it being a three-day period is just making sure that the time frame works. This is actor-y stuff, but . . . we spent a lot of time going, "What time is it? Where was I just? OK. Got it." It was kind of rough when you're shooting out of season. Costume-wise, it can be incredibly uncomfortable for an actor. And it's been my lot in life that whenever I am outdoors in any kind of seasonal shot, I am never dressed appropriately to the weather.
PS: It's just freezing where you guys are?
LD: Yeah. I had to film an outdoor scene and it was Winter in New York, but not in the show. So Boo was in her white beater and her uniform.
PS: I'll look out for goosebumps.
LD: It was bloody f*cking cold.
PS: Are there any details that you put into Big Boo, either over the course of the show or this season in particular, that you're hoping audiences pick up on?
LD: Well, I hope they see that she's butch.
PS: I don't know if they got that impression, actually.
LD: The only way that I put any detail [in] is with my staunch refusal to do anything that I don't think is authentic. However, I've never had to put my foot down in that arena at all at Orange Is the New Black. They've never asked me to do anything that I feel a butch dyke wouldn't do or Big Boo wouldn't do. I have had that issue on other sets where I've had to go, "You know, if I was a black person saying, 'This is something a black person wouldn't do,' you would listen to me. I need you to realize that a butch dyke is different than any other kind of lesbian and there are things that we do very authentically." I've never had to do that with Orange. They've always been right on it. I just hope that the audience sees that.
OMG, These Last-Minute Mother's Day Gifts on Amazon Prime Are Actually So Good
Holidays have a way of sneaking up on us - we're looking at you Mother's Day! If you're reading this and don't have a gift yet, not to worry. The first place you might want to check out is Amazon Prime. We did a little research to see just how good the gift selections are and can safely report on some cute items like a silky scarf. The best part is that the pieces are affordable too, which means you'll have room in the budget to take mom to brunch. Read on to see what pieces you should shop, then place your order asap so it arrives by Sunday.
14 Reasons Mother's Day Isn't All It's Cracked Up to Be
Although Mother's Day is intended for loved ones to pamper and celebrate their hardworking mamas, there's an unspoken truth about this particular holiday: it kind of sucks for Mom. Yes, it's nice to feel appreciated (even though you should be thanked daily for all that you do), but this day typically ends up being an overrated letdown filled with messy crafts that eventually get tossed and appliances for presents instead of what you actually want.
Whether you're gifted with yet another "adorable" coupon book that won't buy you sh*t or a treated to a "delicious" breakfast in bed that involved an early wake-up and impressive mess, these are the reasons Mother's Day isn't always what it's cracked up to be.
14 Reasons Mother's Day Isn't All It's Cracked Up to Be
Although Mother's Day is intended for loved ones to pamper and celebrate their hardworking mamas, there's an unspoken truth about this particular holiday: it kind of sucks for Mom. Yes, it's nice to feel appreciated (even though you should be thanked daily for all that you do), but this day typically ends up being an overrated letdown filled with messy crafts that eventually get tossed and appliances for presents instead of what you actually want.
Whether you're gifted with yet another "adorable" coupon book that won't buy you sh*t or a treated to a "delicious" breakfast in bed that involved an early wake-up and impressive mess, these are the reasons Mother's Day isn't always what it's cracked up to be.