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.
samedi 3 juin 2017
Why People Are Losing Their Cool Over 1 Mom's Wall of Clocks
If you were to step into Yolanda Knox's new home, you might notice something different about her choice of decor. Hanging from her living room wall, you'll find not one but four clocks and their purpose isn't to make sure that her family of six keeps track of the current time.
Instead, each clock hangs above a baby picture and is set to the exact time of that child's birth. Above the clocks is a picture of Yolanda and her husband on their wedding day as well as the words, "In these moments, time stood still . . . " When Yolanda's nephew stopped by her home, he was blown away by this sentimental idea and tweeted a snapshot that quickly went viral.
The memory wall is a unique way to celebrate Yolanda's blended family and is bringing chills (as well as major design inspiration!) to those who come across it. "My husband and I have a blended family, both having two children from previous relationships, which is the reasoning behind the wall decor. If asked how many children do we have, we say four because together we are a one and there's no separation," Yolanda told POPSUGAR. "Sometimes in the blink of an eye, your children grow up so fast and you sit back a think I sure wish I could make time stand still!"
We'll Just Take 1 of Each Item From Selena Gomez's Spring Wardrobe
You'll find Selena Gomez sitting front row at shows like Louis Vuitton in an enviable ensemble, and even with lots of celebrities and style stars present, you can always count on her to be best dressed. But don't let that fool you into thinking the singer can't also be just as stylish on her most casual days.
A quick glance at her street style reveals the singer isn't afraid to follow trends, like wearing colored sunglasses, yet she manages to keep her #OOTDs simple and inconspicuous. She doesn't need to wear a loud print to make you look twice, and when she does wear something sexy, you can expect all jaws to drop.
Her ability to strike the perfect balance between knowing what to wear and when to wear it makes her a style icon, especially in the springtime. You know, when you're having that weather dilemma - it's too hot to wear your Winter sweater but also too cold to wear your denim shorts. Let Selena show you the right way to strike a balance in your everyday outfits by reading on to see which pieces you should be investing in this Spring.
- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez
16 Sexy Books That Should Be on Your Must-Read List This June
As Summer starts heating up, so should your ereader with these must-reads for June! The list is long, action-packed, and full of sexy romances. Thanks to this batch of hot new books, this may be your steamiest Summer yet!
When You See These Retro-Inspired Swimsuits, You'll Know Why We Love Them
If you really want to stand out in your swimsuit, go for a retro style. Think a '60s- or '80s-inspired silhouette. We particularly fell in love with high-waisted bottoms and the pinup-style theme that's ubiquitous in this season's swim selections. Instead of looking outdated, the options ahead are modern twists on old classics, and even stars like Kendall Jenner are on board with the retro feel. This Summer, time-travel back a few decades when swimsuit shopping - you won't be disappointed.
The Liquid Lipsticks You Haven’t Tried Yet - All Under $20
If you're an avid makeup wearer, odds are you have a few liquid lipsticks in your collection. The unique formula does what regular lipsticks can't, as it lasts forever, doesn't transfer, and won't disappear when you eat or drink. By now you've probably tried Anastasia Beverly Hills or Kat Von D or you own at least one Kylie Lip Kit, but there are a ton of liquid lipsticks we can guarantee you haven't tested. There are under-the-radar lipsticks in your drugstore or all over your Instagram feed with unique colors, new formulas, and cute packaging. We've rounded up as many lesser known lipsticks as we could, so keep reading to see what brands you've been missing.
The Liquid Lipsticks You Haven’t Tried Yet - All Under $20
If you're an avid makeup wearer, odds are you have a few liquid lipsticks in your collection. The unique formula does what regular lipsticks can't, as it lasts forever, doesn't transfer, and won't disappear when you eat or drink. By now you've probably tried Anastasia Beverly Hills or Kat Von D or you own at least one Kylie Lip Kit, but there are a ton of liquid lipsticks we can guarantee you haven't tested. There are under-the-radar lipsticks in your drugstore or all over your Instagram feed with unique colors, new formulas, and cute packaging. We've rounded up as many lesser known lipsticks as we could, so keep reading to see what brands you've been missing.
We'll Just Take 1 of Each Item From Selena Gomez's Spring Wardrobe
You'll find Selena Gomez sitting front row at shows like Louis Vuitton in an enviable ensemble, and even with lots of celebrities and style stars present, you can always count on her to be best dressed. But don't let that fool you into thinking the singer can't also be just as stylish on her most casual days.
A quick glance at her street style reveals the singer isn't afraid to follow trends, like wearing colored sunglasses, yet she manages to keep her #OOTDs simple and inconspicuous. She doesn't need to wear a loud print to make you look twice, and when she does wear something sexy, you can expect all jaws to drop.
Her ability to strike the perfect balance between knowing what to wear and when to wear it makes her a style icon, especially in the springtime. You know, when you're having that weather dilemma - it's too hot to wear your Winter sweater but also too cold to wear your denim shorts. Let Selena show you the right way to strike a balance in your everyday outfits by reading on to see which pieces you should be investing in this Spring.
- Additional reporting by Celia Fernandez
Tarte, Our Makeup Fairy Godmother, Is Launching a Magical New Palette
Another day, another exciting Tarte launch (and we're not complaining at all). The brand recently added a variety of clay-infused products to its lineup. Now, the Make Magic Happen eye shadow palette ($32) is coming to the Double Duty Beauty family.
The new launch features nine pans of matte and metallic shadows that work like, well, magic on your eyelids. It includes a variety of bronzed and copper hues, which are perfect for creating essential everyday looks, but also has deep plum and slate shades for when you're feeling bold.
Each shadow starts off with a creamy consistency that dries down to a silky powder finish so you can blend flawlessly (and quickly). The magic doesn't stop at the potent pigment and texture, either. The colors are infused with Tarte's Amazonian clay, mineral pigments, and vitamin E to replenish and protect your eyelids while making them sparkle. It's gorgeous and beneficial to use daily, which sounds like magic to us.
You can add the new palette to your collection when it launches online on June 1 at tartecosmetics.com and on June 25 at Ulta.com and in Ulta Beauty stores on July 9. It is limited edition, so we suggest you act fast! While you wait, get a better look at the palette ahead.
Tarte, Our Makeup Fairy Godmother, Is Launching a Magical New Palette
Another day, another exciting Tarte launch (and we're not complaining at all). The brand recently added a variety of clay-infused products to its lineup. Now, the Make Magic Happen eye shadow palette ($32) is coming to the Double Duty Beauty family.
The new launch features nine pans of matte and metallic shadows that work like, well, magic on your eyelids. It includes a variety of bronzed and copper hues, which are perfect for creating essential everyday looks, but also has deep plum and slate shades for when you're feeling bold.
Each shadow starts off with a creamy consistency that dries down to a silky powder finish so you can blend flawlessly (and quickly). The magic doesn't stop at the potent pigment and texture, either. The colors are infused with Tarte's Amazonian clay, mineral pigments, and vitamin E to replenish and protect your eyelids while making them sparkle. It's gorgeous and beneficial to use daily, which sounds like magic to us.
You can add the new palette to your collection when it launches online on June 1 at tartecosmetics.com and on June 25 at Ulta.com and in Ulta Beauty stores on July 9. It is limited edition, so we suggest you act fast! While you wait, get a better look at the palette ahead.
Senator From Oregon Says Trump "Bears Responsibility" For "Wave of Violence"
It took President Donald Trump three days to speak about the Portland stabbing attack and even in doing so, he only tweeted out a sentiment. His behavior didn't go unnoticed, and Senator Jeff Merkley from Oregon wants Trump to do and say more about this "wave of violence."
After holding a town hall in Clackamas, OR, on May 30, CNN spoke to Merkley about the Portland attack. Merkley expressed that the stabbing and other recent hate crimes stem from Trump's rhetoric on the campaign trail. "You probably can't tie him directly to one particular act of violence. But to the wave of violence, yes, he bears responsibility," he said to CNN. The senator also touched upon the tweet sent from the POTUS account on May 29, stating that it "didn't sound like President Trump." You can see the tweet he's referring to ahead.
The violent attacks in Portland on Friday are unacceptable. The victims were standing up to hate and intolerance. Our prayers are w/ them.
- President Trump (@POTUS) May 29, 2017
Merkley wants Trump to go further with this tweet and talk to three families affected by the Portland stabbing. Then, "he should speak to the nation." Perhaps Trump could learn what Merkley means simply by reading his tweet about the attack.
Let's stand together to defy hate; show that spirit of good Samaritans is stronger than evil; & that compassion, courage & love will prevail
- Senator Jeff Merkley (@SenJeffMerkley) May 27, 2017
14 of the Hottest Summer Drugstore Launches - All Under $15
You could spend $90 on a new cream . . . or you could buy every single product in this budget beauty roundup for the same amount and walk away with a major haul. Yep, every single one of these summer drugstore launches clocks in at under $15 (though most are under $10), and we've made sure to only highlight the best. May your beauty stash and checking account thrive simultaneously.
What California Pizza Kitchen Serves in Japan, Plus More Surprising Facts
You might feel as though you know everything about California Pizza Kitchen if it's one of your favorite restaurants, but we guarantee these insider facts will surprise you in a good way. I spoke to a California Pizza Kitchen representative who has the scoop on everything you'll want to know, like where to find unexpected pizza toppings, how to save money, and the story behind the famous BBQ Chicken Pizza, which is so popular that it's one of the company's store-bought frozen pizzas that you can make at home.
California Pizza Kitchen has been around since 1985.
"CPK was started in 1985 with our first location in Beverly Hills, CA. That store is still around today, but we now have almost 300 restaurants in 16 countries around the world."
The pizza dough is made by hand.
"We make all of our pizzas by hand. Our pizza chefs go through a rigorous certification process to learn how to hand-toss dough 'the CPK way.' Hand-tossing creates a rustic, artisan-style pizza that cooks up perfectly in our hearth ovens."
CPK invented barbecue chicken pizza.
"CPK invented the Original BBQ Chicken Pizza in 1985, the year our first restaurant opened in Beverly Hills. The popular pizza cemented CPK's reputation for innovative and unique menu items and has inspired many other restaurants and chains to develop BBQ chicken pizzas of their own." The chain's iconic pizza has BBQ sauce, smoked Gouda cheese, red onions, and fresh cilantro.
And it still remains the most popular menu item.
"The Original BBQ Chicken Pizza is still our top seller, and our famous Butter Cake is the most popular dessert." The description of the butter cake on the menu really works: it reads, "Trust us. Just try it. Served warm with housemade whipped cream."
The international locations have some seriously awesome pizza toppings.
Not only does CPK have several international restaurant locations, but each location offers some of the most unexpected (and amazing) pizza toppings. "One of the great things about CPK is that we never stop experimenting with new ingredients. Our international stores also have some freedom to experiment with local flavors, so you can find anything from unagi on pizza in Japan to pork belly on pizza in China."
California Pizza Kitchen's Carne Asada Pizza
The pizza ovens are REALLY hot.
The pizzas are cooked in 550-degree ovens.
There are easy ways to save money on your next meal.
"CPK's Pizza Dough Rewards loyalty program offers guests numerous opportunities to save both money and time. Guests receive a free Small Plate just for signing up, earn $5 in Pizza Dough Rewards for every $100 spent, get a free birthday dessert any day during the month of their birthday, and have access to exclusive discounts throughout the year. The recently updated mobile app also offers online takeout ordering and mobile pay."
You can order a gluten-free crust on any pizza.
You might not know that there are plenty of gluten-free-eater-approved pizza options at CPK. "CPK was one of the first national restaurant chains to create a certified gluten-free pizza menu. We currently have four gluten-free pizzas, certified by the Gluten Intolerance Group. We can also make any pizza on the menu with a gluten-free crust."
Pizza isn't the only thing cooked in the pizza ovens.
Your meal might have been cooked in the pizza oven even if you didn't order pizza. "A lot of the ingredients on the menu are actually cooked in the pizza oven. For example, we roast veggies in there, toast bread, and even cook our Hearth-Roasted Halibut and Cedar-Plank Salmon."
Chrissy Teigen Shows Off Her Flawless Spray Tan - With a Topless Selfie
Image Source: Getty / Michael Buckner
If you follow Chrissy Teigen on social media, chances are you've witnessed her regularly get real about the trials and tribulations of the spray tan life. A self-proclaimed "spray tan addict," the model once posted a hilarious Snapchat showing the downside to getting that artificial glow: some messy, brown-stained bed sheets. And let's not forget that time she got real on Twitter about the struggles of spray tanning while breastfeeding, which doesn't sound like a very ideal situation.
just spray tanned around my breast pump outline. the logistical challenges of a healthy beach glow while boobing are incredible
- christine teigen (@chrissyteigen) May 7, 2016
Even though the mother recently told People she was giving up on the ritual since she was busy raising baby Luna, it looks like she has had a change of heart and wanted to get in the Summer mood with a bronzed glow. Chrissy stripped down for a topless selfie, which she posted on Snapchat, to show off her newly tanned skin. Using her arm as a makeshift bra, she captioned the photo, "FINALLY A SPRAY TAN THANK YOU FIONA." We're just hoping this bronzed goddess finally figured out how to avoid those stained sheets by now.
Image Source: Snapchat user Chrissy Teigen
11 Homemade Ice Cream Treats Both Moms and Kids Will Love
Nothing screams Summer like ice cream, but you don't have to run to your favorite ice cream shop every time you have a craving. Ice cream makers can be found pretty inexpensively (Cuisinart makes a great one for under $100). After you're up and churning, we've found 11 homemade ice cream treats that will appeal to kids of all ages - and their parents. From gelato-topped cupcakes and ice-cream-stuffed waffle sandwiches to unique recipes that will make your ice cream taste like strawberry Pop-Tarts, oatmeal cookies, or bananas and peanut butter, these treats are sure to add some cool, tasty fun to your Summer! Keep clicking to find your favorite sweet treat.
13 Recipes That Have Avocado Dressing Drizzled All Over Them
You already know that avocado makes everything better, but these recipes show that it can totally transform a boring dish into a wonderful and delicious bite. Take plain romaine hearts with tomatoes, pour a bit (or a ton) of creamy avocado dressing, and you'll be devouring that lettuce like you've never seen greens before. The same goes for grilled shrimp - add avocado, and boom! You find yourself eating a whole plate of them with gusto. Those and 11 more recipes follow here. Get ready to buy avos by the case!
25 Daddy Yankee Songs That We Can't Live Without
We've been bumping and grinding to Daddy Yankee's beats for well over a decade. So we're taking a minute to reminisce about all the teen bashes where his music was playing all night long. All those nights we spent dancing to "Gasolina" (who could ever forget that one), "Rompe," "Pose," and many more.
Did you know that the album that gave us "Gasolina," Barrio Fino, in 2004 debuted at the No. 1 spot on Billboard's Latin Album chart, making it the first reggaeton album to do that and eventually becoming the top-selling Latin album of the decade? There's a reason people call him the "King of Reggaeton."
Keep scrolling to see what we're calling the ultimate Daddy Yankee playlist.
House of Cards: Who Exactly Is the Mysterious Mark Usher?
House of Cards has long-revolved around Frank and Claire Underwood, but there's a new character added to the mix in season five: Mark Usher. He first appears in "Chapter 55," aka episode three of the new season. We've been immersed in this twisted world for a long time, so if Usher's appearance had you wondering if we'd met the character before, the answer is no - but he plays a big role in season five.
He is a newly appointed campaign adviser to Will Conway. According to Usher, Heather Conway pushed her husband to hire him, but we don't know exactly why she chose him. While Usher does appear to be helping Will, he also clearly has some dark ties in Washington. No biggie; so does everyone on this show. But as the season continues, Usher's relationship with Will sours.
If Usher looks familiar, it's probably because you've seen actor Campbell Scott before. He most recently played the recurring role Boris Kuester von Jurgens-Ratenicz on Royal Pains. You might also be recognizing him from The Amazing Spider-Man and its sequel, in which he played Peter Parker's father. He was also in 2007's Music and Lyrics - obviously a very important, career-defining role.
There you have it!
Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance Look So Good Together It's Almost a Crime
Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance are both Hollywood icons in their own right, but we're equally as obsessed with their romance. The two first met in 1980 and have been making us swoon ever since. They tied the knot in 1997 and welcomed their twins, son Slater and daughter Bronwyn, nine years later. Aside from writing a book together, Friends: A Love Story, they have both starred in hit Ryan Murphy shows - Angela was in the last four seasons of American Horror Story while Courtney gained critical acclaim for his performance in The People v. O.J. Simpson. Honestly, if the famous writer were to create a show about their relationship, it would probably be called American Love Story, because these two know how to keep the flame burning.
11 Homemade Ice Cream Treats Both Moms and Kids Will Love
Nothing screams Summer like ice cream, but you don't have to run to your favorite ice cream shop every time you have a craving. Ice cream makers can be found pretty inexpensively (Cuisinart makes a great one for under $100). After you're up and churning, we've found 11 homemade ice cream treats that will appeal to kids of all ages - and their parents. From gelato-topped cupcakes and ice-cream-stuffed waffle sandwiches to unique recipes that will make your ice cream taste like strawberry Pop-Tarts, oatmeal cookies, or bananas and peanut butter, these treats are sure to add some cool, tasty fun to your Summer! Keep clicking to find your favorite sweet treat.
Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance Look So Good Together It's Almost a Crime
Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance are both Hollywood icons in their own right, but we're equally as obsessed with their romance. The two first met in 1980 and have been making us swoon ever since. They tied the knot in 1997 and welcomed their twins, son Slater and daughter Bronwyn, nine years later. Aside from writing a book together, Friends: A Love Story, they have both starred in hit Ryan Murphy shows - Angela was in the last four seasons of American Horror Story while Courtney gained critical acclaim for his performance in The People v. O.J. Simpson. Honestly, if the famous writer were to create a show about their relationship, it would probably be called American Love Story, because these two know how to keep the flame burning.
13 Recipes That Have Avocado Dressing Drizzled All Over Them
You already know that avocado makes everything better, but these recipes show that it can totally transform a boring dish into a wonderful and delicious bite. Take plain romaine hearts with tomatoes, pour a bit (or a ton) of creamy avocado dressing, and you'll be devouring that lettuce like you've never seen greens before. The same goes for grilled shrimp - add avocado, and boom! You find yourself eating a whole plate of them with gusto. Those and 11 more recipes follow here. Get ready to buy avos by the case!
25 Daddy Yankee Songs That We Can't Live Without
We've been bumping and grinding to Daddy Yankee's beats for well over a decade. So we're taking a minute to reminisce about all the teen bashes where his music was playing all night long. All those nights we spent dancing to "Gasolina" (who could ever forget that one), "Rompe," "Pose," and many more.
Did you know that the album that gave us "Gasolina," Barrio Fino, in 2004 debuted at the No. 1 spot on Billboard's Latin Album chart, making it the first reggaeton album to do that and eventually becoming the top-selling Latin album of the decade? There's a reason people call him the "King of Reggaeton."
Keep scrolling to see what we're calling the ultimate Daddy Yankee playlist.
Riverdale Season 2: What's About to Change for Archie and the Gang
Riverdale's is officially on hiatus mode, but we have some pretty juicy details to hold us over until season two. With that huge cliffhanger during the season one finale, there is bound to be even more darkness along the way - including another possible murder investigation! While the fate of some of our favorite characters (and couples) still hangs by a thread, we are anxious to see what dark turn the series will take next season. Get the scoop on the most crucial details below.
There's Going to Be Even More Mystery
Even though we found out who Jason Blossom's killer is at the end of season one, there is even more drama in store. "There's going to be a new mystery involved," Lili Reinhart told POPSUGAR at WonderCon, noting: "That mystery is kind of started in the finale of our season one."
Another Character Might Die
The small town of Riverdale just can't escape death, can it? While the finale leaves the fate of Fred Andrews up in the air, we have a strong inkling he doesn't make it. Showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa even hinted this event will be a major turning point for Archie next season like "when Bruce Wayne sees his parents gunned down in Crime Alley or when Peter Parker learns that that his Uncle Ben was murdered by a burglar." Did you catch that those are both examples of characters who die?
You'll Be Seeing More of Kevin and FP
Even if Luke Perry's character does kick the bucket, you can breath a sigh of relief knowing that Skeet Ulrich (FP Jones) and Casey Cott (Kevin Keller) will have even more screen time. Both of the actors have been upped to season two regulars!
There's a New Reggie in Town
After 13 Reasons Why's season two renewal, Ross Butler has left the show as Archie's nemesis, Reggie. Don't worry though, his replacement, Charles Melton, is just as attractive.
Sabrina Spellman Could Make an Appearance
Yes, you read that right. Aguirre-Sacasa told TheWrap that the possibility of seeing the teenage witch on Riverdale is "certainly within the realm of possibility" next season. "As dark as Riverdale is, the vision for Sabrina is even darker," he added. "Riverdale is on one side of the Sweetwater River and Greendale, where Sabrina lives, is on the other. There's sort of that mythic idea that on one side of the river there's one reality, and on the other side of the river there's another reality. So who knows?" We already have a few actresses in mind for the bewitching role.
Things Are About to Get Dark and Weird
During a Reddit AMA ("ask me anything"), Cole Sprouse gave a quick tease about what fans can expect from season two saying it was going to be "darker and weirder." Aguirre-Sacasa also told Entertainment Weekly that "there will be a big genre element" next season. "It won't suddenly just be a coming-of-age drama. There will definitely be a very strong, bold genre statement. We're telling, for us, kind of the best version of a murder mystery: Who killed Jason Blossom? So whatever twist in genre element that we add in season two, it's going to be different from that and probably, I think, it's going to make people go, 'They're not really doing that, are they?'"
We Might Get to Meet Betty's Older Brother
Aside from that huge cliffhanger during the finale, the show casually drops a major bombshell about the Cooper family - Alice has a son. While it is implied that it's Hal's kid, we have a crazy theory that FP is the dad. We can only imagine what drama this will cause for Betty and Jughead (sharing a sibling often does that to a couple).
The 1 Royal Marriage Rule That's Changed Since Princess Diana Married Prince Charles
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship is giving many people serious hopes for another royal wedding, but before the Suits actress even makes the trek down the aisle, she has to receive the royal seal of approval from the queen herself. Luckily for her, she has one less rule to follow: the virginity rule. The UK royal bride's virginity rule suggested that women had to be virgins before marrying a royal, which was the case when Princess Diana married Prince Charles in 1981. Before Diana could marry Charles, Diana's family had to confirm she was indeed a virgin. In fact, according to Tina Brown's biography The Diana Chronicles, Queen Elizabeth II specifically chose Diana for her son because she was "irresistibly innocent" and had no ex-boyfriends to sell their steamy stories to the tabloids. Oh, how the times have changed.
While there is no fixed rule that states a royal bride has to be a virgin, there is a code of behavior that has since evolved. Today, royals are encouraged to live their own lives without carrying such a heavy weight of society's expectations, and like many modern couples, Prince William and Kate Middleton even lived together before they got married.
The 1 Royal Marriage Rule That's Changed Since Princess Diana Married Prince Charles
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship is giving many people serious hopes for another royal wedding, but before the Suits actress even makes the trek down the aisle, she has to receive the royal seal of approval from the queen herself. Luckily for her, she has one less rule to follow: the virginity rule. The UK royal bride's virginity rule suggested that women had to be virgins before marrying a royal, which was the case when Princess Diana married Prince Charles in 1981. Before Diana could marry Charles, Diana's family had to confirm she was indeed a virgin. In fact, according to Tina Brown's biography The Diana Chronicles, Queen Elizabeth II specifically chose Diana for her son because she was "irresistibly innocent" and had no ex-boyfriends to sell their steamy stories to the tabloids. Oh, how the times have changed.
While there is no fixed rule that states a royal bride has to be a virgin, there is a code of behavior that has since evolved. Today, royals are encouraged to live their own lives without carrying such a heavy weight of society's expectations, and like many modern couples, Prince William and Kate Middleton even lived together before they got married.
10 Celebrities Who Became Mothers This Year
Several celebrities rang in their very first Mother's Day last year, and this year was no different. Stars like Irina Shayk, Amanda Seyfried, and Cheryl all gave birth to beautiful babies, while Brie Bella and Christian Serratos also became moms. Today, we're paying homage to the new celebrity moms of 2017.
10 Celebrities Who Became Mothers This Year
Several celebrities rang in their very first Mother's Day last year, and this year was no different. Stars like Irina Shayk, Amanda Seyfried, and Cheryl all gave birth to beautiful babies, while Brie Bella and Christian Serratos also became moms. Today, we're paying homage to the new celebrity moms of 2017.
Suffering From Trump Anxiety Disorder? Impeachara Is the Perfect Solution
Medically induced ignorance is bliss - isn't that the saying? Well, at least that's the goal of Impeachara, a satirical drug that will treat Trump-Induced Anxiety Disorder (TIAD). The hysterical video describes and nails the symptoms of TIAD: irritability and constant arguments with family and friends (including friends of friends on Facebook), to name a couple.
There is light at the end of the tunnel, however. Enter the hypothetical (miracle?) drug Impeachara that can fool a patient's brain into believing Trump has already been impeached. "Impeachara works on your brain's neurotransmitters and optical receptors, convincing you that Donald Trump has already been impeached," a familiar prescription-ad voice explains.
Current supporters of Trump's administration are not encouraged to consume Impeachara, as it might cause "thoughts of suicide or spontaneous bowel movements [and] in rare cases people have developed a skin condition known as Cheetos Face."
Sam Friedlander, a Los Angeles-based director, posted the spoof ad on March 9 and it's since gone viral with over 200,000 views on YouTube. We can't imagine why . . .
Suffering From Trump Anxiety Disorder? Impeachara Is the Perfect Solution
Medically induced ignorance is bliss - isn't that the saying? Well, at least that's the goal of Impeachara, a satirical drug that will treat Trump-Induced Anxiety Disorder (TIAD). The hysterical video describes and nails the symptoms of TIAD: irritability and constant arguments with family and friends (including friends of friends on Facebook), to name a couple.
There is light at the end of the tunnel, however. Enter the hypothetical (miracle?) drug Impeachara that can fool a patient's brain into believing Trump has already been impeached. "Impeachara works on your brain's neurotransmitters and optical receptors, convincing you that Donald Trump has already been impeached," a familiar prescription-ad voice explains.
Current supporters of Trump's administration are not encouraged to consume Impeachara, as it might cause "thoughts of suicide or spontaneous bowel movements [and] in rare cases people have developed a skin condition known as Cheetos Face."
Sam Friedlander, a Los Angeles-based director, posted the spoof ad on March 9 and it's since gone viral with over 200,000 views on YouTube. We can't imagine why . . .
Wonder Woman Is an Important Step Forward For the DC Universe - and Women Everywhere
She couldn't have been more than 7, maybe 8 years old. She bounced into the movie theater to see Wonder Woman rather than walked, excitedly hopping from one foot to another as her dad followed close behind. She wore a homemade costume, complete with a glittering gold crown, a baby blanket tied around her neck as an impromptu cape, and some wrist wraps made out of tinfoil. Smiling from ear to ear, she sat down a few rows in front of me, and I couldn't get her face out of my mind for the film's entire run, which clocks in at a lengthy but enjoyable two hours and change.
Yes, director Patty Jenkins's take on the beloved female superhero has finally arrived, and praise Hippolyta, it's fantastic.
Over the last few years, Warner Bros.' attempts to bring DC Comics characters to the big screen haven't exactly gone well, critically speaking. After Christopher Nolan's stellar run with his Dark Knight trilogy in the early aughts, Zack Snyder's joyless Man of Steel fell flat in 2013. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (also directed by Snyder) and David Ayer's Suicide Squad came along three years later, and though they raked in some serious cash for Warner Bros. - Batman v Superman earned an astounding $873 million, while Suicide Squad pulled in $745 million - the reviews were unkind, to say the least (they hold 26 percent and 25 percent ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, respectively).
When Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman briefly popped up in 2016's Batman v Superman and effortlessly stole the show from Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill, a lot of fans' excitement rightly came with a trace of trepidation - would DC let us down again with another dark and dour trudge? The answer is a resounding no.
Even though Wonder Woman is still in the same DC Extended Universe as its predecessors, the film lacks their cynical tone and style in favor of showcasing an endearing and earnest superhero. Diana's naiveté has yet to be dimmed by the gritty realities of defending a humanity that doesn't necessarily deserve her, and Gadot brings a surprising amount of levity to the role. The fiery demigoddess from the island of Themyscira, which is inhabited solely by a race of female warriors called the Amazons, is steadfast in her beliefs that peace can be achieved for mankind if only she can destroy Ares, the god of war.
She gets her chance to save the world when the film's damsel in distress - Steve Trevor (the ridiculously charming Chris Pine), an American spy working undercover for British intelligence during WWI - crashes just off the shore of her island. After recovering from the shock of meeting a guy for the first time, Diana convinces him to take her to the land of man (erm, London) as a favor for saving his life, so she can kill Ares and put an end to the war she believes he's responsible for.
Diana approaches customs of modern civilization with a wide-eyed curiosity. She questions Steve about things like why a man and woman are holding hands on the sidewalk, and a memorable sequence sees her kicking and punching her way out of the restrictive, frou-frou 1900s outfits he wants her to wear to blend in. At the same time, she's unrelentingly fierce and highly skilled when it comes to combat (being raised by Amazonian women will do that, I imagine) and refuses to let (or even bother to understand why) her status as a woman might hold her back in Steve's world. She charges into a room full of all male military generals with the same ferocity she has on the battlefield. She also has a refreshingly frank (and positive) approach to sex and never once falters or pauses to question her own self-worth. In other words, she's literally and figuratively smashing the patriarchy.
All of this is, of course, owed to both Gadot's performance and Jenkins's smart decisions behind the camera. There's a seamless streamlining of years of comic book history and a straightforward introduction to the Greek mythology that is woven into the fabric of Wonder Woman's mythos. Absent are clunky tie-ins to Justice League or other DC characters (save for two quick references to Bruce Wayne and Wayne Industries at the beginning and end of the film), which gives Wonder Woman a sense of individuality and lightness. Rather than shoehorning in teases or Easter eggs for future movies, Jenkins tells Diana's origin story simply. Diana is the star, and it's all the better for it.
Along with its pivot away from the feel of other DC properties, it's hard not to notice the parallels to Marvel's Captain America: The First Avenger. Like Steve Rogers, Diana is idealistic and passionate about what she believes in, and much of Wonder Woman is wrapped up in the carnage of war. The action scenes are excellent (slo-mo for days), and the era of "the war to end war" provides the perfect backdrop for Diana's strength and freedom to rail against. In the 1910s, women couldn't vote, were barely a part of the workforce, and certainly weren't allowed to be a part of government; Diana is the antithesis of those values in every way.
This is never more apparent than in her first real tangle with the Germans, who are posited as one of the film's big bads. Uninhibited by the restraints of an average human body, she ignores the pleas of all the men around her to stay down, instead stepping bravely out into the no man's land of the trenches to save an occupied village on the other side. Flinging machine gun bullets off of her armor with a steely determination and advancing on the enemy in a way none of the other soldiers ever could, it ends up being the film's biggest stand-up-and-cheer moment.
As I watched Diana in this scene, I found myself truly moved, struggling to keep the rising lump in my throat at bay. I couldn't help but think of that little girl dressed in her homemade costume, staring up in wonder at an empowering female character dismantling the rules of what women can be and what they can do. She, and tons of other young women out there, finally have a superhero of their own to grow up with and be inspired by in a time when they need it most. It's because of this that Wonder Woman transcends being just a really good superhero movie - it's so, so much more than that. What Jenkins and Gadot have accomplished, carving out a space for women in a fandom that has long been dominated by men, is incredibly important. In an age when Black Widow can't even get her own action figure, let alone a solo film, I couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief.
Wonder Woman is here, and she's here to stay.
What to Wear on Your Birthday, Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Your birthday is one day where you can look and feel your sexiest and not be embarrassed that the attention's on you. Clearly, when all eyes are looking in your direction, you want to look cute! Depending on where you host the party, whether it's at home or at a restaurant, you'll likely have a range of dress options in mind.
Just in case you don't, however, we have a little suggestion: let your zodiac sign determine what to wear on your big day. After all, it's helped us in other areas, like wedding dress shopping and finding the perfect lingerie. Scroll on to see what you should be wearing on your birthday and have your credit card on hand to shop once the stars speak to you.
Wedding Music Ideas: 100 Songs For Your First Dance
There are plenty of details to consider when planning a wedding, not the least of which is the music. The first dance is often the first song decision many couples make, because it's the centerpiece of the reception, with the newlyweds dancing for the first time with all eyes on them. If you're on the hunt for the perfect tune for the first dance, we're here to help. From rock to classic to pop, here are 100 song suggestions sweet enough for a first dance. Need more advice? Here are all of our wedding music ideas!
What to Wear on Your Birthday, Based on Your Zodiac Sign
Your birthday is one day where you can look and feel your sexiest and not be embarrassed that the attention's on you. Clearly, when all eyes are looking in your direction, you want to look cute! Depending on where you host the party, whether it's at home or at a restaurant, you'll likely have a range of dress options in mind.
Just in case you don't, however, we have a little suggestion: let your zodiac sign determine what to wear on your big day. After all, it's helped us in other areas, like wedding dress shopping and finding the perfect lingerie. Scroll on to see what you should be wearing on your birthday and have your credit card on hand to shop once the stars speak to you.
23 Recipes That Prove Everything Is Better With Cheddar
Fact: cheese makes everything better. Particularly cheddar cheese. Something about its sharpness, saltiness, and melt factor makes cheddar the ideal candidate for grilled cheese, mac and cheese, fondue, homemade crackers, and much more. If your love of cheddar cheese knows no bounds and you could eat it at every meal, you'll want to make these 23 recipes ASAP.
Wedding Music Ideas: 100 Songs For Your First Dance
There are plenty of details to consider when planning a wedding, not the least of which is the music. The first dance is often the first song decision many couples make, because it's the centerpiece of the reception, with the newlyweds dancing for the first time with all eyes on them. If you're on the hunt for the perfect tune for the first dance, we're here to help. From rock to classic to pop, here are 100 song suggestions sweet enough for a first dance. Need more advice? Here are all of our wedding music ideas!
Bill Maher Apologizes For Using a Racial Slur on His Show: "I Regret Saying It"
But really, @BillMaher has got to go. There are no explanations that make this acceptable. http://pic.twitter.com/K5XlEjekQ9
- deray mckesson (@deray) June 3, 2017
During an interview on June 2 with Republican Senator Ben Sasse on Real Time with Bill Maher, comedian and late night talk show host Bill Maher referred to himself as a "n*gga" when Sasse invited him to visit his state of Nebraska and "work in the fields."
"Work in the fields?" Maher asked. "Senator, I am a house n*gga." The racial joke was followed by uncomfortable laughter from the audience, and has since landed Maher in hot water over his use of the slur, including sharp criticism from Sasse himself.
The morning after the episode aired, on June 3, Sasse tweeted about his reaction to Maher's "joke" and his regret that he didn't reprimand the comedian on the spot. "Me just cringing last night wasn't good enough," Sasse wrote in a series of tweets ahead.
Am walking off a redeye from LAX.
3 reflections on @billmaher
1. I'm a 1st Amendment absolutist. Comedians get latitude to cross hard lines.- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
2. But free speech comes with a responsibility to speak up when folks use that word. Me just cringing last night wasn't good enough.
(2of4?) https://t.co/e4Bw8s8tV2- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
3. Here's what I wish I'd been quick enough to say in the moment: "Hold up, why would you think it's OK to use that word?...
(3of4?) https://t.co/mQL6wMEd7W- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
(4of4)
"...The history of the n-word is an attack on universal human dignity. It's therefore an attack on the American Creed. Don't use it." https://t.co/kEZm5vPFHK- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
Maher has since apologized for the comment, releasing a statement through his publicist, stating:
"Friday nights are always my worst night of sleep because I'm up reflecting on the things I should or shouldn't have said on my live show. Last night was a particularly long night as I regret the word I used in the banter of a live moment. The word was offensive and I regret saying it and am very sorry."
As expected, Maher's off-color joke also sparked major outrage across social media, with some even calling for his show to be canceled. According to a statement from Quentin Schaffer, a spokesman for HBO, the cable network will omit the racial slur moment from future airings of the episode. Schaffer also called Maher's comments "completely inexcusable and tasteless."
This isn't the first time Maher words have landed him in the hot seat. In 2001, following the 9/11 terrorist attack, Maher referred to American soldiers as "cowards" for "lobbing cruise missiles from 2,000 miles away" on his former late night talk show, Politically Incorrect. At the time, Maher was expressing disagreement with then-president George W. Bush's statements that the terrorists who attacked the U.S. were cowards. Maher's Comedy Central show was canceled less than a year later.
Read on to see what others had to say about Maher's latest controversy ahead.
Someone please tell Maher that just because he has a black woman fetish doesn't give him a special license to use the n* word
- Sonya (@Monique_Sonya) June 3, 2017
People shocked at Bill Maher being racist-y, check w your Arab & Muslim friends. Been doing this for a LONG time, but he got hall passes.
- Wajahat Ali (@WajahatAli) June 3, 2017
Bill Maher has uttered every epithet but the actual N-word for years. Bill is the white liberal we've warned you about.
- Vilissa Thompson (@VilissaThompson) June 3, 2017
Maher has been sexist, ableist, islamophobic, and racist for a long time. If this is the incident that gets you to turn him off ... good. https://t.co/VdQ3GDc1d2
- David M. Perry (@Lollardfish) June 3, 2017
.@billmaher is partly a result of permissive silence.
Folks gave him passes for Islamophobia, transphobia, sexism... and now?
Case closed.- Brittany Packnett (@MsPackyetti) June 3, 2017
WATCH: For those of you who are wondering why @billmaher can't say the N-word, even in a joke, Oprah can tell you why. SMH. http://pic.twitter.com/NxwRAwjupT
- Yashar Ali (@yashar) June 3, 2017
If We Were the Obamas, We Wouldn't Want to Leave This $8.1M Brick Mansion Either
Following their departure from the White House, the Obama family moved into a stunning mansion in Kalorama, an upper-class suburb within Washington DC. Though it was believed that they would only be living in the home until Sasha graduated from high school, that's definitely no longer the case! On May 31, it was revealed that the former first family purchased the home for $8.1 million.
The classic brick mansion was originally built in 1928, however, it received a more modern update in 2011. Several years later, former Clinton administration Press Secretary Joe Lockhart Gray bought the home for $5.3 million. In anticipation of their White House departure, the Obama family reportedly began renting the home for $20,000 a month - that is, until now.
In looking at pictures of the home, it becomes apparent as to why the Obamas decided to settle down there. The 8,200-square-foot property offers nine bedrooms, eight-and-a-half bathrooms, and a serene backyard. What's more, they'll have plenty of privacy as they decided to recently construct a brick wall out front as an added security measure. Ahead, see pictures of their newly permanent abode.
23 Recipes That Prove Everything Is Better With Cheddar
Fact: cheese makes everything better. Particularly cheddar cheese. Something about its sharpness, saltiness, and melt factor makes cheddar the ideal candidate for grilled cheese, mac and cheese, fondue, homemade crackers, and much more. If your love of cheddar cheese knows no bounds and you could eat it at every meal, you'll want to make these 23 recipes ASAP.
75 Brilliant Gift Ideas For Kickass Working Women
If you're looking for a gift idea as brilliant as the kickass working woman in your life, take a card out of her book: don't settle for anything less than the best. Her excellent taste (and upwardly mobile career) proves why she's a total boss, and you can nail the perfect present if you pay close attention to our list of ideas. She'll adore these office supplies that speak her language, accessories that show everybody who's boss, and handy tools for tackling her to-do list. Happy shopping!
Jump to:
Bill Maher Apologizes For Using a Racial Slur on His Show: "I Regret Saying It"
But really, @BillMaher has got to go. There are no explanations that make this acceptable. http://pic.twitter.com/K5XlEjekQ9
- deray mckesson (@deray) June 3, 2017
During an interview on June 2 with Republican Senator Ben Sasse on Real Time with Bill Maher, comedian and late night talk show host Bill Maher referred to himself as a "n*gga" when Sasse invited him to visit his state of Nebraska and "work in the fields."
"Work in the fields?" Maher asked. "Senator, I am a house n*gga." The racial joke was followed by uncomfortable laughter from the audience, and has since landed Maher in hot water over his use of the slur, including sharp criticism from Sasse himself.
The morning after the episode aired, on June 3, Sasse tweeted about his reaction to Maher's "joke" and his regret that he didn't reprimand the comedian on the spot. "Me just cringing last night wasn't good enough," Sasse wrote in a series of tweets ahead.
Am walking off a redeye from LAX.
3 reflections on @billmaher
1. I'm a 1st Amendment absolutist. Comedians get latitude to cross hard lines.- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
2. But free speech comes with a responsibility to speak up when folks use that word. Me just cringing last night wasn't good enough.
(2of4?) https://t.co/e4Bw8s8tV2- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
3. Here's what I wish I'd been quick enough to say in the moment: "Hold up, why would you think it's OK to use that word?...
(3of4?) https://t.co/mQL6wMEd7W- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
(4of4)
"...The history of the n-word is an attack on universal human dignity. It's therefore an attack on the American Creed. Don't use it." https://t.co/kEZm5vPFHK- Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) June 3, 2017
Maher has since apologized for the comment, releasing a statement through his publicist, stating:
"Friday nights are always my worst night of sleep because I'm up reflecting on the things I should or shouldn't have said on my live show. Last night was a particularly long night as I regret the word I used in the banter of a live moment. The word was offensive and I regret saying it and am very sorry."
As expected, Maher's off-color joke also sparked major outrage across social media, with some even calling for his show to be canceled. According to a statement from Quentin Schaffer, a spokesman for HBO, the cable network will omit the racial slur moment from future airings of the episode. Schaffer also called Maher's comments "completely inexcusable and tasteless."
This isn't the first time Maher words have landed him in the hot seat. In 2001, following the 9/11 terrorist attack, Maher referred to American soldiers as "cowards" for "lobbing cruise missiles from 2,000 miles away" on his former late night talk show, Politically Incorrect. At the time, Maher was expressing disagreement with then-president George W. Bush's statements that the terrorists who attacked the U.S. were cowards. Maher's Comedy Central show was canceled less than a year later.
Read on to see what others had to say about Maher's latest controversy ahead.
Someone please tell Maher that just because he has a black woman fetish doesn't give him a special license to use the n* word
- Sonya (@Monique_Sonya) June 3, 2017
People shocked at Bill Maher being racist-y, check w your Arab & Muslim friends. Been doing this for a LONG time, but he got hall passes.
- Wajahat Ali (@WajahatAli) June 3, 2017
Bill Maher has uttered every epithet but the actual N-word for years. Bill is the white liberal we've warned you about.
- Vilissa Thompson (@VilissaThompson) June 3, 2017
Maher has been sexist, ableist, islamophobic, and racist for a long time. If this is the incident that gets you to turn him off ... good. https://t.co/VdQ3GDc1d2
- David M. Perry (@Lollardfish) June 3, 2017
.@billmaher is partly a result of permissive silence.
Folks gave him passes for Islamophobia, transphobia, sexism... and now?
Case closed.- Brittany Packnett (@MsPackyetti) June 3, 2017
WATCH: For those of you who are wondering why @billmaher can't say the N-word, even in a joke, Oprah can tell you why. SMH. http://pic.twitter.com/NxwRAwjupT
- Yashar Ali (@yashar) June 3, 2017
20+ Delicious and Strong Tequila Cocktails That Aren't a Margarita
Don't get us wrong, we love a good margarita, but tequila is a versatile spirit meant to be more than just an addition to lime juice.
There are, of course, other classics you might already know that use the smoky taste of tequila, like palomas and micheladas, but beyond that there are plenty of fun and inspiring cocktails that use the alcohol in unexpected ways, like the tequila tomato mojito and punch ahead. Keep reading for more than 20 recipes to try at your next happy hour.
The 1 Pool Danger Most Parents Don't Know to Watch Out For
Many parents' worst fear over the Summer months is their child having a problem in the water. Whether they go out too far in the ocean and get caught in a riptide or fall to the mercy of a lifeguard or quick bystander at the pool, accidental drowning is a universal nightmare.
Despite how traumatic watching a child struggle in the water may be, it isn't always the worst-case scenario because there are usually major signs that your child is in distress. Unlike traditional drowning, dry drowning can actually occur on land - away from the water - without parents even realizing their child is in dire need of help.
What Is Dry Drowning?
Dry drowning and secondary drowning are two life-threatening terms that are oftentimes used interchangeably. But they are actually two different conditions that can kill children.
Dry drowning occurs when a person accidentally inhales a small amount of water through his or her nose or mouth, causing their airway to spasm. During this reaction, a little one's airway closes up - typically soon after the child exits the water. A child doesn't have to be visibly struggling in the water for this to happen. All it takes is some unexpected water in his or her mouth or a playful dunk.
Unlike the relatively quick timeline of dry drowning, secondary drowning can occur up to 24 hours after a child leaves the water and involves water in the lungs. When a small amount of water gets into a swimmer's lungs, it can cause inflammation that makes breathing difficult. This swelling and lack of air creates a problem turning oxygen into carbon dioxide.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Water Distress: Any child, no matter their age, who struggled in the water and needed assistance should be observed and receive medical attention.
- Sleepiness: While it's common for kids to wear themselves out after a day playing at the pool, a decrease in oxygen can also cause extreme sleepiness.
- Coughing: If your child is consistently coughing after potentially inhaling water, they could be in danger.
- Labored Breathing: Noticing nostril flaring or shallow breathing in your little one means that your kid is working harder to breathe.
- Vomiting: Throwing up signals that a child's body is in stress. Lack of oxygen, inflammation, or intense coughing can all cause vomiting.
- Change in behavior: Lacking oxygen can cause your child to seem woozy, disoriented, or forgetful.
What to Do
If your child is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, call their pediatrician immediately. Depending on the severity of the situation, you might be advised to call 911 or go directly to the hospital.
How Can I Prevent It?
Any type of drowning is a serious accident that can potentially be prevented. Enroll your child in swim lessons to teach them swim safety and to help them to become comfortable in the water. It's also important to ensure that there is close and constant supervision whenever your child is near or in water. Younger kids should also wear appropriate flotation devices. It's essential to remember that this can occur even if the water isn't deep, so even standing water can be problematic.
Is Buying a VIP Ticket to a Music Festival Worth It?
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General admission tickets to music festivals are crazy expensive to begin with, so what's the deal with VIP, and could it possibly be worth the outrageous cost? Almost all music festivals now have "VIP" and "Platinum" tickets that go for twice the amount of a standard ticket, an upwards of a $1,000 per person or more. I've been to my fair share of music festivals, but never had I experienced VIP until this weekend while covering the BottleRock Festival in Napa as press. I have to confess, I loved every single minute of it. VIP reinvigorated my love of and passion for music festivals. Yes, a VIP ticket is a total luxury that may not be feasible for many (including myself), but it has some surprising pros that may entice you to purchase.
VIP Views
The number one reason to buy a VIP ticket is to have access to a better view of the stage. The most confusing thing I discovered while at BottleRock is there are many tiers to VIP. There's standard VIP ($709), then VIP Plus ($1,200), and finally VIP Platinum ($3,500). All VIP people had access to the front of the main stage. We're talking several feet with plenty of breathing room, so there's no cramming or fighting for a spot. Then, there's VIP Plus, which has access to the Alaska Airlines Skydeck, an elevated tent to the side of the stage that offers an incredible, unobstructed view of the stage (away from the crowd), comfortable seating, shade, and free, unlimited drinks (which cost about $15 a pop for festival-goers).
Then, there's VIP Platinum, which offers backstage access(!) and a private tent to the right of the stage. The balcony of the Platinum stage is basically eye level of the main stage. I did have a chance to see Macklemore backstage. It's incredible to see the musicians up close and take in the energetic audience from their perspective. It felt like being a rockstar for the day, living vicariously through the performers. There is one slight catch: no one is allowed to stay the whole set. So that everyone has a chance to go backstage, the small group stays for a few songs before being escorted out.
VIP Bathrooms
General admission = Porta Potties. VIP means air-conditioned bathrooms with flushable toilets, toilet paper, sinks, and soap. Three days in the sun, and I was beyond grateful for this. I never stood in line, and attendants kept the toilet paper and paper towels stocked at all times.
Private VIP Stage
All VIP had access to a "VIP Village" that had private bars, restaurants, restrooms, and even a private stage. Headliners performed on this stage exclusively for the VIP, so you could catch the artists in a more intimate setting.
Free Drinks and Food
You have to pay the big, big bucks to have access to free drinks and food. The Skybar offered free drinks to VIP Plus. VIP Platinum received chef-catered foods and top shelf drinks in its white tent lounge. Then, there's the "VIP Suites," an elevated tent perched to the side of the tent (like the Skybar but sectioned out into smaller units). Sponsors and corporations rent them out and provide food and drinks to a very limited number of guests.
No Physical / Mental Exhaustion
Fighting the sun and crowds all day oftentimes lead to intense physical and mental exhaustion at music festivals, but with VIP, there's none of that. Yes, by the end of the day, I was tired. However, I didn't leave sunburned, dehydrated, or have to load up on Advil for muscle and backaches. That's a first in music festival history for me! I actually left the weekend feeling relaxed, as if I had gone on a beach vacation.
Though VIP isn't something I'll have a chance to do regularly (or even again), my experience was so positive, I'm apt to read the fine print of a VIP ticket the next time I go to a concert or music festival. If, for the right price, the ticket includes a stunning view, clean bathrooms, tons of freebies, and a relaxing experience, I know I'll be tempted to buy into it.
Travel and expenses for the author were provided by Alaska Airlines, sponsors of the BottleRock Skydeck, for the purpose of writing this story.
The 1 Pool Danger Most Parents Don't Know to Watch Out For
Many parents' worst fear over the Summer months is their child having a problem in the water. Whether they go out too far in the ocean and get caught in a riptide or fall to the mercy of a lifeguard or quick bystander at the pool, accidental drowning is a universal nightmare.
Despite how traumatic watching a child struggle in the water may be, it isn't always the worst-case scenario because there are usually major signs that your child is in distress. Unlike traditional drowning, dry drowning can actually occur on land - away from the water - without parents even realizing their child is in dire need of help.
What Is Dry Drowning?
Dry drowning and secondary drowning are two life-threatening terms that are oftentimes used interchangeably. But they are actually two different conditions that can kill children.
Dry drowning occurs when a person accidentally inhales a small amount of water through his or her nose or mouth, causing their airway to spasm. During this reaction, a little one's airway closes up - typically soon after the child exits the water. A child doesn't have to be visibly struggling in the water for this to happen. All it takes is some unexpected water in his or her mouth or a playful dunk.
Unlike the relatively quick timeline of dry drowning, secondary drowning can occur up to 24 hours after a child leaves the water and involves water in the lungs. When a small amount of water gets into a swimmer's lungs, it can cause inflammation that makes breathing difficult. This swelling and lack of air creates a problem turning oxygen into carbon dioxide.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Water Distress: Any child, no matter their age, who struggled in the water and needed assistance should be observed and receive medical attention.
- Sleepiness: While it's common for kids to wear themselves out after a day playing at the pool, a decrease in oxygen can also cause extreme sleepiness.
- Coughing: If your child is consistently coughing after potentially inhaling water, they could be in danger.
- Labored Breathing: Noticing nostril flaring or shallow breathing in your little one means that your kid is working harder to breathe.
- Vomiting: Throwing up signals that a child's body is in stress. Lack of oxygen, inflammation, or intense coughing can all cause vomiting.
- Change in behavior: Lacking oxygen can cause your child to seem woozy, disoriented, or forgetful.
What to Do
If your child is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, call their pediatrician immediately. Depending on the severity of the situation, you might be advised to call 911 or go directly to the hospital.
How Can I Prevent It?
Any type of drowning is a serious accident that can potentially be prevented. Enroll your child in swim lessons to teach them swim safety and to help them to become comfortable in the water. It's also important to ensure that there is close and constant supervision whenever your child is near or in water. Younger kids should also wear appropriate flotation devices. It's essential to remember that this can occur even if the water isn't deep, so even standing water can be problematic.
20+ Delicious and Strong Tequila Cocktails That Aren't a Margarita
Don't get us wrong, we love a good margarita, but tequila is a versatile spirit meant to be more than just an addition to lime juice.
There are, of course, other classics you might already know that use the smoky taste of tequila, like palomas and micheladas, but beyond that there are plenty of fun and inspiring cocktails that use the alcohol in unexpected ways, like the tequila tomato mojito and punch ahead. Keep reading for more than 20 recipes to try at your next happy hour.
Serious Question: Should You Wear Socks in Bed?
I have the faintest memories of wearing socks to bed whenever I came down with a fever or got the chills at night when I was younger. My mother had the habit of turning down the heat when we slept and, as someone who gets cold easily, socks were the quickest solution to warming me up. This all ended abruptly one night when my mom caught me wearing a pair to bed. She claimed it was bad for my health (she had read about it in a book) and demanded I take them off before sleeping. My parents are very health conscious and being a kid and all, I obliged and didn't question her reasoning. After that, I hardly ever wore socks to bed and forgot about the incident altogether, until a few days ago. I had read someone else's conundrum surrounding this very same topic and my childhood memories came flooding back to me.
Is the simple act of wearing socks to bed such a big deal?
I had to find a logical, scientific explanation to this. No fashion question is ever too dumb or unimportant to ask - at least, that's what I was telling myself as I searched - and I felt validated when numerous posts popped up with other people wondering the same thing. I wasn't alone. The short answer to the question is: yes, wearing socks to bed is completely fine. In fact (for the insomniacs out there), it might even help you fall asleep faster. Heating up cold feet causes your blood vessels to dilate, which can signal the brain that it's time for bed. In other words, your feet regulate external temperature, so if you're feeling cold, slip on a pair of socks. If you're feeling hot, simply take them off for a better night's rest. It's all about listening to what your body needs.
Although you should always wear clean socks to bed to prevent bacteria from collecting, there is nothing unhealthy about wearing your favorite fuzzy pair to sleep. I'm not only presenting these findings to my mom ASAP tonight, but I'm also buying new socks that I'll happily wear to sleep whenever I want.
13 Random TV Shows You Weren't Allowed to Watch as a Kid
One of the many advantages of being an "adult" is that you get to watch whatever you want on TV. You may find this privilege to be especially liberating, if you (like me) also had parents who forbade you from watching certain TV shows. I still remember getting HBO, only to be told Sex and the City was off limits. I'm also just now finding that I didn't have the only set of parents who said Friends was just a bunch of people having sex, but Seinfeld was A-OK. (Where's the logic?) Take a look to see all the shows our editors weren't allowed to watch!
10 Stars Celebrating Their Very First Father's Day This Year
Father's Day is on June 18, which means a new batch of celebrities will be ringing in the holiday as dads for the very first time. Actors like Steven Yeun and Jonathan Rhys Meyers welcomed adorable little boys, while Bradley Cooper and Adam Levine expanded their families with beautiful baby girls. Let's take a moment to honor all the new famous dads.
Serious Question: Should You Wear Socks in Bed?
I have the faintest memories of wearing socks to bed whenever I came down with a fever or got the chills at night when I was younger. My mother had the habit of turning down the heat when we slept and, as someone who gets cold easily, socks were the quickest solution to warming me up. This all ended abruptly one night when my mom caught me wearing a pair to bed. She claimed it was bad for my health (she had read about it in a book) and demanded I take them off before sleeping. My parents are very health conscious and being a kid and all, I obliged and didn't question her reasoning. After that, I hardly ever wore socks to bed and forgot about the incident altogether, until a few days ago. I had read someone else's conundrum surrounding this very same topic and my childhood memories came flooding back to me.
Is the simple act of wearing socks to bed such a big deal?
I had to find a logical, scientific explanation to this. No fashion question is ever too dumb or unimportant to ask - at least, that's what I was telling myself as I searched - and I felt validated when numerous posts popped up with other people wondering the same thing. I wasn't alone. The short answer to the question is: yes, wearing socks to bed is completely fine. In fact (for the insomniacs out there), it might even help you fall asleep faster. Heating up cold feet causes your blood vessels to dilate, which can signal the brain that it's time for bed. In other words, your feet regulate external temperature, so if you're feeling cold, slip on a pair of socks. If you're feeling hot, simply take them off for a better night's rest. It's all about listening to what your body needs.
Although you should always wear clean socks to bed to prevent bacteria from collecting, there is nothing unhealthy about wearing your favorite fuzzy pair to sleep. I'm not only presenting these findings to my mom ASAP tonight, but I'm also buying new socks that I'll happily wear to sleep whenever I want.
10 Stars Celebrating Their Very First Father's Day This Year
Father's Day is on June 18, which means a new batch of celebrities will be ringing in the holiday as dads for the very first time. Actors like Steven Yeun and Jonathan Rhys Meyers welcomed adorable little boys, while Bradley Cooper and Adam Levine expanded their families with beautiful baby girls. Let's take a moment to honor all the new famous dads.