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.

mardi 6 juin 2017

Nas on President Trump: "We All Know a Racist Is in Office"


Nas may be known for his eye-opening rap lyrics, but now, he's speaking out on our current political climate and has a lot to say about President Donald Trump. The rapper recently penned a passionate open letter directed at the president, where he asks the public to act and not silence ourselves during this presidency.

"We all know a racist is in office," Nas wrote for Mass Appeal. "People can talk their sh*t. Comedians can sound racist. People can go through their moments of that sh*t, but when you have the responsibility of being president and you carry on like that, you send a strong message to people outside of your group that they ain't worth sh*t."

Nas is unquestionably one of the most politically aware rappers our country has seen, and his letter to President Trump reasserts that. He explains that the president's morals and messages often make minorities feel like they "ain't worth sh*t."

While Nas doesn't vote nor does he "pay attention to politics," he believes his actions are enough. "My way of addressing these issues is through my work. Whatever president may be in office doesn't affect my work directly. The way he affects people is what affects me," Nas wrote. "My focus is on what's happening with real people in their everyday lives. How they behave, the decisions they make, and how that affects families. I grew up in a single-parent household, so I was affected by that life. But it didn't stop me. So I speak to the everyday people. I speak to everybody. If the people are bothered by it, I speak on it. If the people are bothered and want change, I speak on that."

He wrote that former President Barack Obama followed his dreams, but it doesn't change the fact that racism is still incredibly prevalent and he believes Trump has only made it worse.

"But Barack Obama changed the game so that now, whether you're a woman or Latino or whoever, you can feel that running for office can be a real goal. Winning the election could be real for someone in this country, if that's what you want," he added. "I'm doing all the things I ever dreamed of, even though there was a Ronald Reagan, even though there was laws that ruthlessly destroyed the black community, put tons of us in prison on trumped-up charges, and put us in jail for a long time over crimes that other people get a smack on the hand for. It's basically slavery."

Nas is asking people to act and acknowledge these issues, because remaining silent won't change anything. He closed his letter with some advice: "I don't got time for lippin'. I got time for actions. Anytime I'm speaking it's action."


Every Parent Needs to Know the Terrifying Reason SPF 50 Didn't Protect This Boy From First-Degree Burns

Despite properly applying SPF 50 sunscreen multiple times, 3-year-old Liam Sayers was left with first- and second-degree burns.

Liam's family came prepared for a weekend in the sun on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Mom Jennifer Sayers said that she coated both Liam and his brother with SPF 50+ Banana Boat Kids spray sunscreen and that she even sprayed it into her hands first before directly applying it onto their faces to ensure they were getting the proper coverage.

"Multiple times during the day we had the kids come out of the water, dried them off completely, and then reapplied the sun spray as directed," Jennifer said to WTVR.

According to the sunblock's bottle, the product is pediatrician tested and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. However, another Banana Boat product, Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 100, made Healthy Child's list of the 13 sunscreens with the worst EWG ratings for 2016. Additionally, the Environmental Working Group takes issue with spray sunscreens in general due to potential lung inhalation.

Jennifer said that she followed the bottle's instructions during each application and that Liam was fine on the way home from the beach. She also wrote on Facebook that her family was only at the beach for four hours and that the boys were wearing rash guards for half of the time. However, by the time Liam awoke the next morning, she could tell that something was seriously wrong.

"His eyes were almost swollen shut, he had swelling and blistering all over his face, primarily on his cheeks and nose," Jennifer described.

Despite Jennifer's best intentions, Dr. Eric Freeman, a pediatrician at Old Dominion Pediatrics said that sometimes following the instructions isn't enough to protect your children and that you should consider buying different products specifically for their faces. "I can never guarantee to a family you won't get burned despite doing all of the right things," Freeman explained. "We look for sunscreens particularly for those sensitive areas that include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide."

Although the Banana Boat spray does not include those ingredients, the company issued a statement in regards to Liam's burns:

"Nothing is more important to us than the well being of the people who use our products. Consumers can rest assured that Banana Boat products provide safe and effective broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection when used as directed on the product label, and with other sun protection measures as necessary."

Ariana Grande and Mac Miller's Love Story Can Be Traced Back to 1 Tweet

Ariana Grande and Mac Miller are known for keeping their romance pretty private. Aside from a few Instagram pictures here and there, the two rarely talk about their relationship, though Ariana recently sparked engagement rumors when she wore a diamond sparkler on her ring finger. While nothing has been officially confirmed yet, it's also worth pointing out that Ariana and Mac never actually confirmed their relationship, either (sensing a pattern?). Let's take a walk down memory lane and see how their love story really began.

60+ Popular Restaurant Dishes - Hacked!

From Magnolia Bakery's classic vanilla cupcakes to Red Lobster's addictive Cheddar Bay Biscuits, we've rounded up the best restaurant copycat recipes. (Some even come straight from the source!) Keep reading for 68 tempting options, but be warned: you're about to get very, very hungry.

Every Parent Needs to Know the Terrifying Reason SPF 50 Didn't Protect This Boy From First-Degree Burns

Despite properly applying SPF 50 sunscreen multiple times, 3-year-old Liam Sayers was left with first- and second-degree burns.

Liam's family came prepared for a weekend in the sun on Virginia's Eastern Shore. Mom Jennifer Sayers said that she coated both Liam and his brother with SPF 50+ Banana Boat Kids spray sunscreen and that she even sprayed it into her hands first before directly applying it onto their faces to ensure they were getting the proper coverage.

"Multiple times during the day we had the kids come out of the water, dried them off completely, and then reapplied the sun spray as directed," Jennifer said to WTVR.

According to the sunblock's bottle, the product is pediatrician tested and recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation. However, another Banana Boat product, Banana Boat Kids Max Protect and Play Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 100, made Healthy Child's list of the 13 sunscreens with the worst EWG ratings for 2016. Additionally, the Environmental Working Group takes issue with spray sunscreens in general due to potential lung inhalation.

Jennifer said that she followed the bottle's instructions during each application and that Liam was fine on the way home from the beach. She also wrote on Facebook that her family was only at the beach for four hours and that the boys were wearing rash guards for half of the time. However, by the time Liam awoke the next morning, she could tell that something was seriously wrong.

"His eyes were almost swollen shut, he had swelling and blistering all over his face, primarily on his cheeks and nose," Jennifer described.

Despite Jennifer's best intentions, Dr. Eric Freeman, a pediatrician at Old Dominion Pediatrics said that sometimes following the instructions isn't enough to protect your children and that you should consider buying different products specifically for their faces. "I can never guarantee to a family you won't get burned despite doing all of the right things," Freeman explained. "We look for sunscreens particularly for those sensitive areas that include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide."

Although the Banana Boat spray does not include those ingredients, the company issued a statement in regards to Liam's burns:

"Nothing is more important to us than the well being of the people who use our products. Consumers can rest assured that Banana Boat products provide safe and effective broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection when used as directed on the product label, and with other sun protection measures as necessary."

60+ Popular Restaurant Dishes - Hacked!

From Magnolia Bakery's classic vanilla cupcakes to Red Lobster's addictive Cheddar Bay Biscuits, we've rounded up the best restaurant copycat recipes. (Some even come straight from the source!) Keep reading for 68 tempting options, but be warned: you're about to get very, very hungry.

What's New in Food This June

Ice cream, cold beer, tequila gummies, and The Pioneer Woman's newest magazine: these are the stuff Summer is made of. Take a look at all the newest products in the food world that we've tried and can verify are 100 percent delicious.

The Best Thing to Do in New Orleans Is Nowhere Near the French Quarter

Any time I travel, I try to find something amazing that's a little bit off the beaten path. It can be really difficult to do, especially when I'm in a very touristy city, like New Orleans for example. Sure, I know all the hot spots to visit when I want to be a tourist and experience all the well-known places New Orleans has to offer, and I did all of them. All the haunted places? I'm all over it. The most iconic bars? Obviously.

On my last visit, though, I wanted something new. Something outside the French Quarter. Amazingly, a recommendation from hotel staff at The Roosevelt hit the nail on the head: Bacchanal Wine and Spirits. It's not just a wine shop, it's not just a bar, it's not just a music venue. It's all those things, plus it's outside the city center, which provides a bit of an escape. It's a cheap, easy cab ride out of the French Quarter - I think I paid $8 - and it's the perfect place to spend an evening.

While I can't really call this place a secret, it is something I'd consider a hidden gem. It tends to get busy, welcoming out-of-towners and locals alike. The evening I visited, Bacchanal was having a Rosé special in honor of Mother's Day, and you couldn't get in if you weren't wearing pink. Thankfully, my pink hair got me through the door. The vibe throughout is the typical Southern charm that you'll find anywhere in New Orleans, which should put it at the top of your list for your next visit down South.

My Ex Replaced Me With a Victoria's Secret Model

Some say a breakup is harder to accept than death. Why? I'd say due to the lack of closure. But what's harder than the breakup? The replacement.

When someone dies, it's unlikely we'll see them again (unless you're some sort of clairvoyant); however, when we break up with someone, they can still manage to find ways to haunt us. Social media is the unrelenting medium that seems to prevent these apparitions from leaving our dimension and "going to the light." While some may be curious about the status of departed loved ones, they just might be terrified of what they find. If you're lucky like me, no investigation was required, because she was everywhere! I was replaced with a Victoria's Secret model.

I woke up one morning and felt good and ready to take on a new day, while I repeated my mantra: "I shall not creep," as I very carefully scrolled through my morning social feeds. "Today would be the first of all days, where I would regain control of my life and sanity." Or so I thought.

After conquering the first obstacle of the day, I strutted confidently to the subway for the morning commute. Just as I arrived at the machine to reload my MetroCard, I did a double take to my right, there she was - "the Angel," plastered on the subway station wall. A look of sheer horror washed over my face as I stared into the perfect, parchment eyes of my replacement. Quickly swiping through the turnstile to escape her gaze, I found a series of her glossy, paper eyes mirrored down the seemingly never-ending corridor. It was like tunnel vision, my heart sank, my chest tightened and with a sudden pang, a wave of anxiety took over my body. FML. "What did I do to deserve this cruelty?" I thought to myself.

When I arrived at work, I immediately started plugging away at the 20+ emails awaiting replies. I was never so thankful for how busy my job was. I worked at a well-known fashion magazine and there was hardly any time for my mind to wander. As I took a moment to eat my lunch, I casually flipped through our next month's issue when, lo and behold! The Angel appeared. With nearly a mouthful of soup to the lap and appetite to the abyss, I was now certain that I was somehow cosmically indebted to pay off my karmic dues.

It was a day from hell and I desperately needed to clear my head. Instead of my usual gym routine, I thought it might be a nice change to run across the Williamsburg Bridge. On the way back, my endorphins had me on high like never before, my body felt light and my mind free and clear. "Nothing can stop me now!" I thought. For I chose water (more like sweat) over wine; when I really wanted to go in on a bottle of Malbec and devour a pint of Ben & Jerry's ice cream - talk about willpower! I was back and feeling damn good.

After I snapped an obligatory shot of the New York City skyline for Instagram, I was scrolling through image filters, when a bright light on the horizon of the bridge caught my eye. The Angel. And she's larger than life! A billboard?! A motherf*cking, billboard. I stopped dead in my tracks. Suddenly, I felt a surge of intense energy rise from the pit of my stomach. What I thought was sure to have been vomit or tears, burst out an uncontrollable, borderline painful laughter in the dark, by myself, as other runners whizzed by. After a solid five minutes, I finally gathered my wits about me, threw my hands in the air and said out loud, "I give up." And that, my friends, was the best thing I could've done.

It was beyond my control. She was everywhere. There on that dark bridge, I made a promise to myself: Accept it.

I chose happiness over heartache . . . and finally learned what it actually meant to love myself. I had finally earned my wings.

That was a pivotal moment in my life. It was then that I stopped caring, stopped comparing, stopped torturing myself for what I wasn't and what she was. She may be an "Angel", but she's no better or worse than I am. Ultimately, what I needed to accept is that she lives a completely different life than mine, and therefore making our lives incomparable.

All of my strife was fueled by ego. These things always are. Was I jealous? Maybe. Was it that I wasn't over him? Possibly. Or, was it that my ego wouldn't allow me to be, because I kept getting the sense that, "I'd lost". However, I didn't lose anything. There was no competition, no race to see which of us could move on or start dating first; aside from the one my ego created. The only thing I ended up losing was myself (and maybe my mind a little too).

We DO have a say in whether we want to keep these egoic demons company or send them off to the next dimension. The lesson I learned from this self-inflicted hell was if we are able to drop our weapons, and honestly answer: What's really driving our unhappiness and inability to move on? Is it that we're unable to accept the present or unable to accept ourselves? Or, perhaps both? Either way, we can gain a multitude of self-awareness, and in turn self-love by doing whatever it takes (even if it means deactivating your social media accounts for a while) to grant ourselves the necessary freedom and happiness we all so deserve.

Remember this solid piece of advice that a wise person once told me, "There's a reason why you broke up." Honor that. Once I did and accepted everything for what it was and is - including myself, I chose happiness over heartache, started celebrating who I am and finally learned what it actually meant to love myself. I had finally earned my wings.

9 Tropical Swimsuits You Need This Summer - Palm Leaves Included

Rainbows, stripes, polka dots, and even bananas - there are so many printed swimsuit choices the possibilities are endless. This Summer venture out and try a new tropical bikini trend: palm leaves. We found the brightest and best styles so you don't have to spend time searching. Pick from these choices to get beach-ready.

See How Lancome's New Mascara Took My Lashes From Frail to Full of Life

Unlike other self-professed lash junkies, I do not wear mascara every day. Because of constant eye rubbing and habitual lash picking, I try to avoid enhancing my fringe regularly. I also find some mascaras to be a pain to remove each night.

However, I do appreciate a full flirty lash when I need to amplify my look, and my makeup bag is never without a tube of mascara. So when I got my hands on Lancome's new Monsieur Big formula ($25), I was enticed. I had been meaning to replace my dried out Better Than Sex tube, so it was the perfect time to put a new formula to the test.

The morning of a presentation at my old middle school, I needed my lashes to "wow", so pulled Monsieur Big out of its packaging and got swiping. Within applying the first coat I could tell I would be obsessed. Inside of the sleek black tube is a fat, fluffy brush that happens to be Lancome's biggest yet. The wand is coated in a creamy, onyx formula that lengthens and volumizes your fringe in one fell swoop. The brush is also comprised of soft fibers that hugs and coats each lash. This makes it easy for you to achieve a faux-falsie look from root to tip.

Before applying mascara, I typically tight line my upper waterline to make my lashes look thicker - but I didn't have to with Monsieur Big. Instead, I carefully wiggled the brush at the base of my lashes and distributed the product through the ends. I was left with longer, fuller, wispy lashes that only required two coats.

The most exciting part, for me at least, was that after a long day of work I was able to come home and easily remove my mascara. I only needed one eye makeup remover wipe to get off most of it, and followed up with cleanser when I washed my face. But I knew Monsieur Big truly passed the test when I woke up the following morning without raccoon eyes (a major win in my book).

I'll definitely be keeping this in my makeup bag to spruce up my look before Summer events. You can also snag a tube for yourself when it launches on June 17 at lancome-usa.com. In the meantime, see how my lashes went from flat to flirtatious in the photo ahead.

The 6 Sports Bras You Need For All of Your Workouts

If you're a fitness junkie, then you know that not all sports bras are cut from the same cloth. Some are made for low-impact movements, like yoga and Pilates, and other styles are better suited for the hard stuff, like HIIT. Whatever your workout routine looks like, we've identified six sports bras that will help you get the most out of your training.

What's New in Food This June

Ice cream, cold beer, tequila gummies, and The Pioneer Woman's newest magazine: these are the stuff Summer is made of. Take a look at all the newest products in the food world that we've tried and can verify are 100 percent delicious.

9 Tropical Swimsuits You Need This Summer - Palm Leaves Included

Rainbows, stripes, polka dots, and even bananas - there are so many printed swimsuit choices the possibilities are endless. This Summer venture out and try a new tropical bikini trend: palm leaves. We found the brightest and best styles so you don't have to spend time searching. Pick from these choices to get beach-ready.

See How Lancome's New Mascara Took My Lashes From Frail to Full of Life

Unlike other self-professed lash junkies, I do not wear mascara every day. Because of constant eye rubbing and habitual lash picking, I try to avoid enhancing my fringe regularly. I also find some mascaras to be a pain to remove each night.

However, I do appreciate a full flirty lash when I need to amplify my look, and my makeup bag is never without a tube of mascara. So when I got my hands on Lancome's new Monsieur Big formula ($25), I was enticed. I had been meaning to replace my dried out Better Than Sex tube, so it was the perfect time to put a new formula to the test.

The morning of a presentation at my old middle school, I needed my lashes to "wow", so pulled Monsieur Big out of its packaging and got swiping. Within applying the first coat I could tell I would be obsessed. Inside of the sleek black tube is a fat, fluffy brush that happens to be Lancome's biggest yet. The wand is coated in a creamy, onyx formula that lengthens and volumizes your fringe in one fell swoop. The brush is also comprised of soft fibers that hugs and coats each lash. This makes it easy for you to achieve a faux-falsie look from root to tip.

Before applying mascara, I typically tight line my upper waterline to make my lashes look thicker - but I didn't have to with Monsieur Big. Instead, I carefully wiggled the brush at the base of my lashes and distributed the product through the ends. I was left with longer, fuller, wispy lashes that only required two coats.

The most exciting part, for me at least, was that after a long day of work I was able to come home and easily remove my mascara. I only needed one eye makeup remover wipe to get off most of it, and followed up with cleanser when I washed my face. But I knew Monsieur Big truly passed the test when I woke up the following morning without raccoon eyes (a major win in my book).

I'll definitely be keeping this in my makeup bag to spruce up my look before Summer events. You can also snag a tube for yourself when it launches on June 17 at lancome-usa.com. In the meantime, see how my lashes went from flat to flirtatious in the photo ahead.

How to Create a Beautifully Organized Backyard - on a Budget

The unsung hero of every beautiful backyard is adequate storage. If you already have these organizing essentials inside your home, you understand how life-changing a tidy, clutter-free home can be. We've applied the same philosophy for outdoor spaces, combing through the most stylish and affordable inventory to share our must-have products for the ultimate backyard transformation. Whether your space is small or large, these pieces will have you looking forward to a Summer filled with lazy lounging and outdoor entertaining.

This 1 Wedding Guest Dress Is So Versatile, You Can Wear It Any Season

"But it's so plain!" you might think to yourself upon laying eyes on the one wedding guest dress I am fully devoted to. To that I say: sometimes simplicity goes a long way - especially based on all the compliments I received when I wore the Fame and Partners Grayson dress to a wedding in Naples, FL.

When everyone asked "what are you wearing?" I gave them an earful about Fame and Partners, a brand that specializes in made-to-order pieces, be it a casual skirt, a fancy cocktail dress, or a lavish silk gown. While Fame and Partners doesn't tailor, it does offer plenty of variations on a single look. You can adjust the length of your dress or add little details (like a slit or a cutout) here and there. Plus, you've got a whole color palette to pick from for every item on the site. The label is completely committed to helping you find, tweak, and settle on a dress that flatters your body to a T.

Personally, I liked the Grayson as it was, though I did request a petite hemline length when I filled out the handy size profile. I fell in love with the pale blue shade of this particular midi (I promise you, it's conveniently versatile and practically a neutral), but I had eight more shades to choose from had this not been the case.

Fame and Partners also allows you to send back a dress if it's not to your liking, shipping out another within hours. But thanks to careful shopping and such an easy-to-navigate site, I didn't need a replacement. Once I slipped into the Grayson, I was convinced I had become that girl - the one who managed to blend sexiness and sophistication with ease. From the front, this style appears modest and light, but from the back, it's a whole new ball game. The rows of crisscross straps are inviting to the eyes, and the long ties allow you to mess with perfection, which is a look I can get behind.

I perfectly matched my man Joe as we opted for peachy, neutral accessories, his paisley tie complementing my Karen Millen ostrich clutch. As a couple, we were praised for our coordination, but by myself, well, I was the Carrie Bradshaw of the wedding! I had found a dress that hugged every curve just so, thanks to the thickly woven crepe material. I could move, shake, and dance in it!

Naturally, I wore it again with closed-toe pumps in the Fall and I even rocked it with a white t-shirt underneath, finished with low-top sneakers, for Spring. Trust me, I don't like to repeat outfits. One glance at my stuffed-to-the-brim closet and you'll think I'm a hoarder. So the fact that I've worn this look multiple times (and throughout multiple seasons!) means it's a real winner. But listen, I'm not trying to convince you to buy this Fame and Partners dress . . . or am I?

The Magic of Becca's Highlighters Is Now Coming in Lip Gloss Form

Fans of Becca's luminous highlighters are in for a sparkly treat - the brand is launching new kaleidoscopic lip glosses next week at Sephora!

The new collection of Liquid Crystal Glow lip glosses comes in six trendy shades that will sparkle on a variety of different complexions:

  • Pearl x Gold - clear gloss with a hint of gold sparkle
  • Rose Quartz x Seashell - pink gloss with iridescent shimmer
  • Champagne Dream x Bellini - peachy gloss with rose gold accents
  • Opal x Jade - oil-slick purple with an opal glow
  • Amethyst x Geode - shimmery lavender with hints of blue
  • Topaz x Gilt - bronze gloss with multicolored shimmer

Each hue gives a subtle sparkle similar to the brand's famous highlighters and features a blend of pearls that'll create a prismatic shine when your lips catch the natural light. Can you imagine how gorgeous these would look out in the Summer sunshine? Get a better look at them ahead, and get ready to shop 'em next week.

The Ultimate Inexpensive Guide to Exploring New York City Like a Local

Eclectic, eccentric, and oh so enchanting, it only takes one bite of the Big Apple to leave you wanting more. More of the contagious and upbeat energy. More of the breathtaking skyline. More of the world-famous, thin-sliced pizza. More of the . . . well, you get the idea.

It goes without saying, New York City is an incredibly magical place to visit. However, if you're not careful, a trip to this buzzing city can add up quickly, leaving you with an empty wallet and one-too-many "I Love New York" trinkets.

As someone who once called this place home, I can certainly attest to how expensive this city can be. But I can also vouch for how great of an area this pocket of the north is for any budget. Over the course of several years, I scoured the city to find the best things to see, explore, and discover, all on an ultracheap budget. And trust me, the options are endless!

So if you're heading to this concrete jungle anytime soon, be sure to check out these 30 unique, budget-friendly things to do. Not only will this guide save your bank account from depletion, but it also will provide you with a taste of living like a local - hence why you won't find Times Square on the list. Get ready for an unforgettable New York adventure!

This 1 Wedding Guest Dress Is So Versatile, You Can Wear It Any Season

"But it's so plain!" you might think to yourself upon laying eyes on the one wedding guest dress I am fully devoted to. To that I say: sometimes simplicity goes a long way - especially based on all the compliments I received when I wore the Fame and Partners Grayson dress to a wedding in Naples, FL.

When everyone asked "what are you wearing?" I gave them an earful about Fame and Partners, a brand that specializes in made-to-order pieces, be it a casual skirt, a fancy cocktail dress, or a lavish silk gown. While Fame and Partners doesn't tailor, it does offer plenty of variations of a single look. You can adjust the length of your dress or add little details (like a slit or a cutout) here and there. Plus, you've got a whole color palette to pick from for every item on the site. The label is completely committed to helping you find, tweak, and settle on a dress that flatters your body to a T.

Personally, I liked the Grayson as it was, though I did request a petite hemline length when I filled out the handy size profile. I fell in love with the pale blue shade of this particular midi (I promise you, it's conveniently versatile and practically a neutral), but I had eight more shades to choose from had this not been the case.

Fame and Partners also allows you to send back a dress if it's not to your liking, shipping out another within hours. But thanks to careful shopping and such an easy-to-navigate site, I didn't need a replacement. Once I slipped into the Grayson, I was convinced I had become that girl - the one who managed to blend sexiness and sophistication with ease. From the front, this style appears modest and light, but from the back, it's a whole new ball game. The rows of crisscross straps are inviting to the eyes, and the long ties allow you to mess with perfection, which is a look I can get behind.

I perfectly matched my man Joe as we opted for peachy, neutral accessories, his paisley tie complementing my Karen Millen ostrich clutch. As a couple, we were praised for our coordination, but by myself, well, I was the Carrie Bradshaw of the wedding! I had found a dress that hugged every curve just so, thanks to the thickly woven crepe material. I could move, shake, and dance in it!

Naturally, I wore it again with closed-toe pumps in the Fall and I even rocked it with a white t-shirt underneath, finished with low-top sneakers, for Spring. Trust me, I don't like to repeat outfits. One glance at my stuffed-to-the-brim closet and you'll think I'm a hoarder. So the fact that I've worn this look multiple times (and throughout multiple seasons!) means it's a real winner. But listen, I'm not trying to convince you to buy this Fame and Partners dress . . . or am I?

15 Travel Hacks You Need For Your Next Trip

The one travel hack nearly everyone agrees on? Avoid checking a bag at all costs! Sometimes you simply have to, but one of the most common tips from expert travelers is to bring your luggage on board in order to avoid lost or damaged baggage, baggage delays, and general travel nuisances. Reddit users from all over the world offered tips and hacks based on what they've learned through their own extensive travels, so read on and wise up before your next trip.

  1. Make your baggage stand out with tape. "I put coloured tape on all the corners of my checked luggage. It makes identifying your luggage at the carousel so much easier. Duct tape sells lots of distinctive patterns, or painter's tape if you're cheap," said Reddit user imperfectchicken.
  2. Always try to carry on your luggage instead of checking it! "Any time you can, travel with a carry-on only. Not only do airlines charge for your first checked bag fairly often now, but you also don't risk having your luggage lost. A lot of people won't travel with a carry-on because they think you can't bring enough liquids or essentials like contact solution and razors," says Reddit user emellee89. "Anything like contact solution is considered medicated though so you can bring a large bottle and not have it count towards liquids. As far as razors, you can bring the ones where you can't remove the individual blade, so anything disposable or where the head is disposable is fine."
  3. Have a copy of your passport and important documents. Photocopy or take a photo on your phone of your passport/other documents, or have images of them saved somewhere on the Cloud or Dropbox so that if you lose anything important, you'll have backup copies.
  4. Have backup clothes in your carry-on if you check a bag. Pack a complete outfit in your carry-on. Delayed baggage is common and it's best to ensure you have backup clothes so you can at least wash them without having to hang around a hotel in a robe half of the day just to have some clean underwear. "Don't forget to ask the airline what they offer for delayed luggage compensation on the spot," says Reddit user Colonel-of-Truth. "You can usually get at least a first-class toiletry/travel kit (especially for international travel); if they already know your bag will be delayed at least overnight, you might be able to get reimbursed for the purchase of a change of clothes (obviously ask first, and keep your receipt. They should give you a claim form.)"
  5. You can use your phone's GPS even if you don't have data. If you're traveling internationally, you may not have data or service, but there are ways to access your GPS/get directions even without WiFi or data. "GPS doesn't use cell towers to parse location; it uses satellites. No data required, bit of a battery hog though. I download terrain maps and use GPS sometimes when I'm out backpacking in the wilderness and need a quick fix on my position," says Redditor heartbeats. You can use Google Maps to do this, as well as CityMaps2Go app, Caltopo, and Maps.me.
  6. Travel quickly in expensive places; take your time in cheaper ones. If you are traveling for an extended period of time to different places, consider spending more time in the less expensive areas so that you can see something new while saving on hotels, food, and activities.
  7. Know how to get back to where you're staying at all times. "You always have to know how to get back to your hotel, hostel, etc. Make it your first priority or else you end up lost," says Reddit user phaylinsok. If you stray far from your home base, always keep the address on you in case you don't speak the language and need to ask for help by showing somewhere where you're trying to go. If the hotel has a card, take one and keep it with you!
  8. Post your rough itinerary on r/travel before your trip. "Before you travel anywhere post a rough itinerary and ask for suggestions. You'll get awesome tips from people that have been there and might suggest some towns you might not have ever heard of. Obviously you'll get some people who have negative things to say but filter that out and do your own research and see what tips apply to you," said Reddit user mosdefinite09.
  9. Pack a backup compass. Don't always rely on technology to steer you in the right direction; technology can fail you. "I carry a $10 compass, thankful for it 10 times a day," says cosine5000. It's always smart to have a contingency plan.
  10. Know the weather before you go. Being unprepared for bad weather can make a great trip go wrong quickly. Make sure you know what temperatures to expect, and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at you while you're traveling so that you can soak up the sun (or shelter yourself from the rain) wherever you go.
  11. Be flexible and keep an open mind. "When traveling, allow yourself to be flexible. Have general ideas of things you want to do and places you want to go to, but keep an open mind. You will meet people that will give you advice on places to go and things not to be missed, and from my experience, theses are always the best," said Reddit user AndreeAnneP.
  12. Bring extra battery packs!. Bring backup portable battery chargers so that you can power up your devices no matter where you are/how long you've been away from an outlet.
  13. Get your body on the time of the your destination. One of the best ways to avoid jet lag is to set your clock for the time of your destination and start to acclimate to that zone. "Once the plane takes off, set clocks to destination time. Try to stay awake until something like a normal bedtime at your destination (this will be easy or hard depending on direction of travel and the time you leave)," said Reddit user LaunchAllVipers.
  14. Keep your essential medicines with you in your carry-on. "Pack up a small first-aid kit that includes pain meds, anti-diahhrial, laxatives, Benedryl, cold meds, Tums, sore throat treatment, bandages, disinfectant, and other things you'd want if you were sick and didn't have easy access to them. Always keep this in your bag," says mdowney.
  15. Look at everything as an adventure. "Things will go wrong. Museums will be on strike, trains will break down, you'll forget to pack something you always bring. It is far better to look at these things as opportunities to change plans and do something different," says Redditor RioOnTheWestrnFront. "Going into every situation with that attitude makes a major difference in having a bad day and having a funny story to tell when you get home."

Carrie Underwood Says Husband Mike Fisher Is the "Only Fish in the C" For Her

Carrie Underwood just can't stop singing Mike Fisher's praises. After showing her unwavering support for her husband's hockey team, the country singer wished him a happy 37th birthday complete with a ridiculously corny joke. "Happy birthday to this handsome hunk! I'll never forget the day he told me he was asked to wear the 'C.'" she wrote alongside a photo of Mike, holding up his captain's jersey for the Nashville Predators. "I was so proud on that day and I'm even more proud now to see him play in the #StanleyCupFinals. He's definitely the only FISH in the "C" for me! 💙💛🐟💛💙🐟💙💛" Get it? Fish-er. These two are so adorable.

18 Films Even Sexier Than Fifty Shades of Grey

Fifty Shades of Grey is an undeniably sexy film, but it's certainly not the only erotic movie out there that explores more singular sexual tastes. From bondage and BDSM to pure, passionate sex, we've rounded up movies that give Fifty Shades a run for its money when it comes to sex-filled scenes and interesting additions in the bedroom (or the car, or the bathroom floor, or the middle of a room filled with masked members of a secret society). If you're up for something a little different than your average romance, then these movies are sure to satisfy.

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.

8 Things That Happened When We Tried Oreo O's For the First Time in 10 Years

When we found out about Oreo O's returning to grocery stores, we thought were were dreaming or time traveling back to the '90s. But the news has been confirmed, the internet has lost its mind, and now we can all relive the greatest cereal-eating experience that's ever existed! POPSUGAR editors - who are a combination of young and old millennials and have different levels of appreciation for Oreo O's - were lucky enough to get our hands on one of the huge boxes (1 pound, 3 ounces, to be exact) before they hit Walmart shelves on June 23.

Here's the catch: Oreo O's will only be available for three months, so you'll have to get your fix while you have the chance! In case you forgot what these miniature circles of cookies-and-cream goodness taste like (or if you've never tried them before!), here's what you can expect before you pick up a box (or 10).

  1. "These are so good, so perfect, and the best snack! Can't wait to buy these in stores again!"
  2. "They taste like Froot Loops, but with Oreos!"
  3. "Just like I remember - kind of like Cookie Crisp, but with Oreos instead of chocolate chip cookies. Yes, please!"
  4. "These are yummy. Would never dare eat this for breakfast, but maybe dessert."
  5. "This is my first time trying them and they're delightful!"
  6. "SO GOOD. Great to snack on with milk or without."
  7. "Very sweet! Super good. Not sure if it'd be my ideal cereal!"
  8. "Never had these before . . . now I might have to buy a box."


Moral of the story: Oreo O's are f*cking delicious, and they make it socially acceptable to eat Oreos for breakfast (not that we would judge you for doing that anyway). But the sugary, crunchy, chocolaty cereal has an irreplaceable flavor, and it's basically your civic duty to stock up during its long-awaited return!

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.

8 Things That Happened When We Tried Oreo O's For the First Time in 10 Years

When we found out about Oreo O's returning to grocery stores, we thought were were dreaming or time traveling back to the '90s. But the news has been confirmed, the internet has lost its mind, and now we can all relive the greatest cereal-eating experience that's ever existed! POPSUGAR editors - who are a combination of young and old millennials and have different levels of appreciation for Oreo O's - were lucky enough to get our hands on one of the huge boxes (1 pound, 3 ounces, to be exact) before they hit Walmart shelves on June 23.

Here's the catch: Oreo O's will only be available for three months, so you'll have to get your fix while you have the chance! In case you forgot what these miniature circles of cookies-and-cream goodness taste like (or if you've never tried them before!), here's what you can expect before you pick up a box (or 10).

  1. "These are so good, so perfect, and the best snack! Can't wait to buy these in stores again!"
  2. "They taste like Froot Loops, but with Oreos!"
  3. "Just like I remember - kind of like Cookie Crisp, but with Oreos instead of chocolate chip cookies. Yes, please!"
  4. "These are yummy. Would never dare eat this for breakfast, but maybe dessert."
  5. "This is my first time trying them and they're delightful!"
  6. "SO GOOD. Great to snack on with milk or without."
  7. "Very sweet! Super good. Not sure if it'd be my ideal cereal!"
  8. "Never had these before . . . now I might have to buy a box."


Moral of the story: Oreo O's are f*cking delicious, and they make it socially acceptable to eat Oreos for breakfast (not that we would judge you for doing that anyway). But the sugary, crunchy, chocolaty cereal has an irreplaceable flavor, and it's basically your civic duty to stock up during its long-awaited return!

41 Outdoor Activities to Get Kids Out of the House This Summer

The temperature's rising, school's out of session, and all your kids want to do is sit inside and play. Make the next warm Summer day more fun than ever with games, crafts, and activities they can't really do indoors. From messy projects to those that will cool tots off with splashes of water, we've come up with 41 activities that will have tots begging to head outside this Summer.

- Additional reporting by Emily Bibb

41 Outdoor Activities to Get Kids Out of the House This Summer

The temperature's rising, school's out of session, and all your kids want to do is sit inside and play. Make the next warm Summer day more fun than ever with games, crafts, and activities they can't really do indoors. From messy projects to those that will cool tots off with splashes of water, we've come up with 41 activities that will have tots begging to head outside this Summer.

- Additional reporting by Emily Bibb

Kristen Bell's "Hands on the Circle" Hack Will Keep Your Kids Safe

Kristen Bell's "Hands on the Circle" Hack Will Keep Your Kids Safe

Do Any of These 9 Moves to Blast Calories and Tone Your Abs at the Same Time

Build strength, work your ab muscles, flatten that tummy, and burn fat and calories - these cardio ab exercises do it all. Try the floor moves or standing ab exercises to get a belly-blasting workout wherever you are. No equipment is required, except for the mountain climber sliders, for which you'll need either a couple paper plates or towels (or you can just do regular mountain climbers!).

Do Any of These 9 Moves to Blast Calories and Tone Your Abs at the Same Time

Build strength, work your ab muscles, flatten that tummy, and burn fat and calories - these cardio ab exercises do it all. Try the floor moves or standing ab exercises to get a belly-blasting workout wherever you are. No equipment is required, except for the mountain climber sliders, for which you'll need either a couple paper plates or towels (or you can just do regular mountain climbers!).

In Addition to Being a Great Dad, Jason Momoa Is (Literally) a Huge Mama's Boy

Jason Momoa has some serious love for his mom, Coni. The Aquaman actor was raised by his "strong, single mother" in Norwalk, IA, and has shared a number of sweet moments with her since making it big in Hollywood. Whether he's taking her out to various red carpets or posting selfies with her on Instagram, it's clear to tell they share a special bond. Not to mention, he always writes the sweetest messages for her birthday. During his short film, Canvas of My Life, in 2016, he even gave a special shout-out to his mom, who is a photographer and artist, crediting her for his love of skateboarding and his sense of adventure. While we love seeing him in dad mode with his and wife Lisa Bonet's two kids, his mother-son moments certainly hold a special place in our hearts.

21 Versatile Trader Joe's Products and Easy Ways to Use Them

Adaptable is the name of the game with these multiuse, sent-from-the-heavens foods, all available year-round at your nearest Trader Joe's. They could be cooked millions of ways, but here are a few dozen easy ideas to make the dinner-planning part of your life just a bit easier. However you decide to use these convenient staples, you'll want to add them to your shopping cart for years to come.

In Addition to Being a Great Dad, Jason Momoa Is (Literally) a Huge Mama's Boy

Jason Momoa has some serious love for his mom, Coni. The Aquaman actor was raised by his "strong, single mother" in Norwalk, IA, and has shared a number of sweet moments with her since making it big in Hollywood. Whether he's taking her out to various red carpets or posting selfies with her on Instagram, it's clear to tell they share a special bond. Not to mention, he always writes the sweetest messages for her birthday. During his short film, Canvas of My Life, in 2016, he even gave a special shout-out to his mom, who is a photographer and artist, crediting her for his love of skateboarding and his sense of adventure. While we love seeing him in dad mode with his and wife Lisa Bonet's two kids, his mother-son moments certainly hold a special place in our hearts.

9 Ways to Make the Most of That Extra Hour of Daylight With Your Kiddos

It's hard enough to put your kids to bed on time, but that task becomes even more challenging when daylight saving time starts. After all, what kid wants to go to bed when the sun is still out? Rather than see the change as an extra stress, try looking on the bright side - literally! Use the opportunity to squeeze in some outdoor family bonding, which could also tire your tots out before their nightly story. Take advantage of the extra sunlight with these nine family-friendly activities.

21 Versatile Trader Joe's Products and Easy Ways to Use Them

Adaptable is the name of the game with these multiuse, sent-from-the-heavens foods, all available year-round at your nearest Trader Joe's. They could be cooked millions of ways, but here are a few dozen easy ideas to make the dinner-planning part of your life just a bit easier. However you decide to use these convenient staples, you'll want to add them to your shopping cart for years to come.

9 Ways to Make the Most of That Extra Hour of Daylight With Your Kiddos

It's hard enough to put your kids to bed on time, but that task becomes even more challenging when daylight saving time starts. After all, what kid wants to go to bed when the sun is still out? Rather than see the change as an extra stress, try looking on the bright side - literally! Use the opportunity to squeeze in some outdoor family bonding, which could also tire your tots out before their nightly story. Take advantage of the extra sunlight with these nine family-friendly activities.

9 Products That Will Have You Wishing You Were Sipping On an Horchata

Imagine yourself sipping on a glass of horchata. We will wait. Aaah, are you in your happy place? OK, now think about getting that same feeling when swiping on lip balm, lighting a candle, or looking at a print on your wall. If you can't resist the sweet and earthy taste of horchata, then you won't be able to stop yourself from putting your money where your mouth is and buying all of these products. Keep scrolling to get your horchata fix.

Bellissimo! John Krasinski and Emily Blunt Enjoy a Fun, Kid-Free Italian Getaway

John Krasinski and Emily Blunt will be celebrating their seventh wedding anniversary in July, and the couple got a head start on the milestone by returning to where it all began: Italy! The couple was spotted off the coast of Tuscany for a relaxing beach getaway this week - on Monday, John went shirtless and Emily sported a pink printed bikini as they lounged on a yacht and took a dip in the ocean. Emily was also photographed doing a little shopping and checking out cute kids' shoes at a nearby shop.

Back in 2010, Emily and John tied the knot at George Clooney's waterside estate in Lake Como, and since then, they've shared countless cute moments on the red carpet, starred in huge films, and welcomed their daughters, Hazel and Violet, in 2014 and 2016.

1 Startup Thinks Blood Transfusions From Teens Could Slow Aging

Turns out the satire in the HBO show, Silicon Valley, isn't exactly fiction. A few days after an episode of the show lampooned a startup for offering blood transfusions to battle aging effects, a real startup pitched a similar program to the Code Conference on June 1.

Ambrosia, according to its website, launched in 2016 and has an objectively ominous mission: "study[ing] the effects of transfusions of young blood plasma." Founder Dr. Jesse Karmazin told the conference that his company currently has approximately 100 patients, most of whom are of retirement age. Ambrosia's mission is bizarre, but it's making a scientific effort to support the idea that young blood could fight the negative symptoms of aging. The company is presently conducting six human clinical trials.

Ambrosia buys its plasma supply from blood banks and CNBC reports that teenagers "donating their blood are not aware that it might be used on healthy adults." Though the donated blood is typically that of a teen, Ambrosia will buy blood from anyone under 25.

Karmazin stressed that Ambrosia's goal was not to cure aging, but to recruit people willing to participate in experiments to measure the potential. So far, Ambrosia's patients have reported positive benefits, but other members of the scientific community have decried the study as unethical. But Ambrosia's general thesis does have at least one high-profile advocate, though he's not actually a client: Peter Thiel. The PayPal founder has expressed interest in studying the effects of young blood transfusions. "I'm looking into parabiosis stuff, which I think is really interesting," Thiel told Inc. in 2016. "This is where they did the young blood into older mice and they found that had a massive rejuvenating effect."

Whatever the science says, it's creepy as hell.

4 Wonder Woman Scenes That Could Have Been Very Different If They'd Been Directed by a Man


Throughout Wonder Woman, director Patty Jenkins repeatedly puts up a stop sign right before things could take a sexual turn in the female-led superhero film. Doing so safeguards both star Gal Gadot and Wonder Woman's image as a respected, feminist icon and shields the princess of Themyscira from becoming yet another filmic sex object. For starters, Jenkins eliminated the stars around Wonder Woman's groin region. Jenkins also turns down the volume on the Wonder Woman outfit; by dulling and muting the loud hues from her comic book past, Jenkins allows the DC queen's personality to bring color to the big screen.

Jenkins presents Wonder Woman tastefully in other ways. There's no denying that Gadot makes a drop-dead gorgeous Wonder Woman, but her beauty is continually bested by her bravery and smarts. Moments come and go in the film that could easily be sexually charged, but Jenkins defuses them before our very eyes. Below are four Wonder Woman scenes that might have been very different if they had been directed by a man - or to generalize less, a director who catered to the male gaze.

1. When Wonder Woman Eats an Ice Cream Cone For the First Time

Wonder Woman gleefully grabs a vanilla ice cream cone in the film. Her eyes light up as she licks the dessert with pleasure but only for a split second. The goddess appears like a child trying a lollipop for the first time instead of a woman putting her mouth on a phallic object. Had someone else shot this scene, the innocence could have been lifted with an extreme close-up and a lengthening of the shot. "You should be very proud!" the incognito warrior princess praises the ice cream man as she shakes the cone at him. It is an adorable, stainless scene but one that could have easily been turned into something far more provocative had the camera been in the hands of a male director.

2. When Wonder Woman Has Sex With Steve

In the film, it can be safely assumed that Diana and US Air Force Captain Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) make love as snow falls gently outside the place they're staying at for the night. Steve walks Diana to her room as she flashes him "come hither" eyes. The two kiss passionately, when suddenly, the camera transports audiences out of the bedroom and onto the cement pavement outside.

There, the audience watches snow fall softly, giving the impression that if lovemaking is going on behind the closed windows, it's happening just as delicately and affectionately as the snowfall making contact with the pavement. This cutaway scene is an example of how Jenkins respects Wonder Woman. She upholds her privacy and leaves what happens behind closed doors up to viewers' interpretations instead of seizing an opportunity to expose Gadot's body. Had someone else directed this scene, it might not have been so soft and gentle. In fact, it likely could have looked like a sex scene straight out of 300.

3. When Wonder Woman Tries On Multiple Outfits

To keep Wonder Woman hidden, Steve takes her to a clothing shop to fish out a new outfit. During the scene, the beautiful Gadot tries on a string of ensembles. What follows is slightly clumsy and fully comical. Firstly, Diana almost strips in front of everyone, unaware of the concept of a dressing room, but Jenkins quickly advances the scene before Diana can take anything off. If the male gaze was ruling the director's chair, it's probable that some skin would have been shown right then and there.

The princess even complains that her shirt is "choking her," a relatable, feminist touch that only Jenkins could bring to the film treatment. That small complaint is just one of the subtle details that add to the female mosaic that makes up the modern version of Wonder Woman. To add humor to the scene, Diana is then shown accidentally ripping a pencil skirt while kicking her leg out. She isn't trying to look sexy while shopping - she's trying to kick ass, literally. What made audiences hold their stomachs from laughter could have doubled as prime time to show off an objectified Gadot.

4. When Wonder Woman Reveals Her Iconic Armor


Diana introduces the world to Wonder Woman in the most powerful way possible. As she ascends from a ladder into No Man's Land, Diana carries herself like the volcanic force she knows she is. She climbs up the ladder in the film, mirroring the climb of women up the ladder of patriarchy today. The scene places emphasis on her hard-as-nails stare and bulletproof demeanor instead of her killer curves. As she walks toward the warring Germans, she deflects a bullet. Finally, her armor is revealed in full. Had it been meant to feed the male gaze, it might have been ushered in quite differently. Through calculated angling and lighting, Jenkins transforms Wonder Woman's short outfit into a source of power. It's plausible that the same outfit could have been portrayed as a gilded Victoria's Secret one-piece had certain male directors had their way. Yet, luckily for us, we had a female director who made the conscious decision to glorify Wonder Woman's strength over her sex appeal time and again.

13 Standout Julia Child Recipes

If legendary television chef and author Julia Child were still standing, she'd be 104 years old. Should you find yourself craving one of the culinary matron's masterpieces, flip on some reruns of The French Chef or In Julia's Kitchen With Master Chefs, then make yourself an authentic French recipe from scratch, courtesy of JC. Here are a handful of our favorite ideas.

- Additional reporting by Nicole Perry

Female Candidate For Congress Drops Out of Race After Death Threats

Kim Weaver, a Democratic woman running for Congress in Iowa, announced that she was dropping out of her race this weekend after a series of "very alarming acts of intimidation, including death threats."

Though Weaver's day job is as long-term care advocate for seniors in assisted living, she's no stranger to public life. In 2016, she sought to unseat Republican Rep. Steve King, and though she lost to the noted Trump supporter, she was staging another run against him in the 2018 election. Weaver said the Obamacare repeal and the introduction of AHCA prompted her to enter the race again. When asked about her feelings on the new healthcare legislation on Twitter, she quipped: "I think that instead of calling it the American Health Care Act, we should call it #AmericanDeathCareAct."

In a note to her supporters on Facebook, Weaver also acknowledged that, given the uncertainty around healthcare coverage, she'd face a difficult road ahead if she quit her job to campaign full time for the Iowa seat and that she has an ailing mother who's facing the same set of issues.
"My mother lives in Des Moines and has been experiencing ongoing health issues," she wrote. "I feel that it's necessary to be more available to support her. Considering this, along with the time and energy it takes to succeed as a candidate, I realize that I can't fully commit to both."
Weaver told The Des Moines Register that Hillary Clinton called her after receiving the news that she exited the race, encouraging her to remain in politics. The Iowa 4th district race was one that was being closely monitored nationally after Steve King's racist Twitter comments back in March.

For his part, King took to Twitter after receiving news that Weaver had dropped out of the race, saying that he hadn't wanted her to drop out, but that he believed "Death threats likely didn't happen but a fabrication."

Reducing hospital trips: Ontario government to overhaul ambulance system

Ambulance paramedic

The provincial government is planning to revamp the Ambulance Act, seeing more patients treated on-scene and referred to primary or community care instead of the hospital — if deemed appropriate.

Perrie Edwards's "Brave" Photo Inspires Fans to Love Their Bodies, Even Their Scars

13 Standout Julia Child Recipes

If legendary television chef and author Julia Child were still standing, she'd be 104 years old. Should you find yourself craving one of the culinary matron's masterpieces, flip on some reruns of The French Chef or In Julia's Kitchen With Master Chefs, then make yourself an authentic French recipe from scratch, courtesy of JC. Here are a handful of our favorite ideas.

- Additional reporting by Nicole Perry

9 Products That Will Have You Wishing You Were Sipping On an Horchata

Imagine yourself sipping on a glass of horchata. We will wait. Aaah, are you in your happy place? OK, now think about getting that same feeling when swiping on lip balm, lighting a candle, or looking at a print on your wall. If you can't resist the sweet and earthy taste of horchata, then you won't be able to stop yourself from putting your money where your mouth is and buying all of these products. Keep scrolling to get your horchata fix.

Female Candidate For Congress Drops Out of Race After Death Threats

Kim Weaver, a Democratic woman running for Congress in Iowa, announced that she was dropping out of her race this weekend after a series of "very alarming acts of intimidation, including death threats."

Though Weaver's day job is as long-term care advocate for seniors in assisted living, she's no stranger to public life. In 2016, she sought to unseat Republican Rep. Steve King, and though she lost to the noted Trump supporter, she was staging another run against him in the 2018 election. Weaver said the Obamacare repeal and the introduction of AHCA prompted her to enter the race again. When asked about her feelings on the new healthcare legislation on Twitter, she quipped: "I think that instead of calling it the American Health Care Act, we should call it #AmericanDeathCareAct."

In a note to her supporters on Facebook, Weaver also acknowledged that, given the uncertainty around healthcare coverage, she'd face a difficult road ahead if she quit her job to campaign full time for the Iowa seat and that she has an ailing mother who's facing the same set of issues.
"My mother lives in Des Moines and has been experiencing ongoing health issues," she wrote. "I feel that it's necessary to be more available to support her. Considering this, along with the time and energy it takes to succeed as a candidate, I realize that I can't fully commit to both."
Weaver told the Des Moines Register that Hillary Clinton called her after receiving the news that she exited the race, encouraging her to remain in politics. The Iowa 4th district race was one that was being closely monitored nationally after Steve King's racist Twitter comments back in March.

For his part, King took to Twitter after receiving news that Weaver had dropped out of the race, saying that he hadn't wanted her to drop out, but that he believed "Death threats likely didn't happen but a fabrication."

A Simple Brain Trick For Dealing With Mean People

For all the times we've felt angry or hurt but not fully expressed our emotions, we turn to our friends at YourTango for a new way of thinking about conflicts.

Genius.

"I am so sick of moving you out of apartments. I've moved you out of five apartments in four years and enough is enough!!"

"You know Jeremy threw me out and I have to move today! I thought we were friends, but I guess if you have to go to your niece's baptism instead of helping me move my few paltry items a few blocks that tells me how you really feel about me!"

"If I gave you a kidney you'd think I was a bad friend!"

"Don't worry about it, because you wouldn't give me a kidney if I was on death's doorstep!"

"Ahhhhhhhhhhh!" (sound of me screaming)

This is an argument I had with a "friend." Except for the fact that the friend wasn't actually present!

It was the argument I had in my head waiting in line at the grocery store to buy laxatives since my annoyance rendered me constipated.

Have you ever had feuds with those you love or loathe in your head? Literally spending hours - nay, days and weeks - grappling with this person and they don't even know about it?

I'm going to say this because I want you to know that I love you and I'm on your side: You may be right.

This person you're arguing with in your head may indeed be a martyr, sadist, cheater, suffocatrix (not a word, but should be) and just all-around annoying as crap. But if this is a person you must have in your life (a child, a mother-in-law, a boss, a co-worker, a spouse you don't want to divorce) then the bottom-line is: it's your problem.

And you're the only one who can fix it.

So, here's how to deal with mean people:

My client Christine came to me for advice about her mom, Susan. This was their cycle:

  • Susan frequently offered to pay for things when she was with Christine; restaurant bills, movie tickets, cab rides which Christine often accepted.
  • Susan also had unexpected fits of rage directed toward Christine which included blaming, shaming and crying.
  • Following which Christine spent days arguing with her mother in her head!

This was taking up a great deal of room in Christine's emotional life.

When we're dealing with mean people, it helps to understand that they have emotional triggers stemming from childhood hurts that cause them to act out in destructive ways. Christine's mom might've been a people-pleaser (giving to maintain serenity in her childhood home), who ended up resenting it and exploding at inappropriate times in adulthood.

First, I told Christine she had to create a healthy boundary by not allowing her mom to pay for her. Until she did that she'd feel responsible for Susan's flare ups.

Next, I gave her a little brain trick to learning how to deal with mean people.

We've all sustained emotional childhood injuries because no parents are perfect, but there's definitely a sliding scale and mean people may be more injured than the rest of us. So let's trick ourselves.

If you knew the person raging, criticizing, guilting or shaming you had been in a traumatic car accident and had sustained a brain injury, and that every time they acted out it was the brain injury at fault, how would that make you feel?

Maybe you'd feel more neutral. After all, you don't have to take the mean behavior personally, it's that damn brain injury.

Maybe you'd feel less ashamed, less defensive. Less triggered yourself.

Maybe you could detach from them with compassion. Because nine times out of ten it's not about you.

Maybe then you could act, rather than react to the mean person's behavior.

Christine stopped allowing her mom to buy her things. That pissed Susan off too! (People aren't always happy when we set healthy boundaries.) She blew up at Christine, saying she'd always need her help and eventually come begging for money.

Christine stepped outside of the situation and observed her mother like a doctor would her patient. Boy was that brain injury wreaking havoc. Christine just let that wave of aggression roll on by.

Eventually, Susan calmed down, since Christine wasn't fighting back. That's when Christine was able to reach for her mother's hand and say, "You don't have to give me money to see me. I love you, and that's enough."

Christine had NO IDEA where that came from. But she was available to it. Susan burst into tears and they embraced. While their relationship isn't perfect, they've come to a new level of understanding.

So give it a try when your boss goes off on you or your mother-in-law criticizes your mothering. Consider that an injured part of them makes them mean. Don't take it personally. Take a deep breath, detach.

More from our friends at YourTango:

Perrie Edwards's "Brave" Photo Inspires Fans to Love Their Bodies, Even Their Scars

Why Jessica Simpson Should Let Her Daughter Wear Whatever the Hell Bikini She Wants

Arya Has a New Weapon in Game of Thrones Season 7, and It's VERY Important

Fiery Game of Thrones favorite Arya Stark just isn't herself without a weapon in hand - notably, her custom-made sword, Needle. But a new blade strapped to her hip in promotional material for the show's seventh season has fans buzzing, and for good reason: it's the very same Valyrian steel dagger that paves the way for the War of the Five Kings way back in season one.

If you're thinking, "Whoa, back up a bit," don't worry: we've got background on the dagger and why it's so important that Arya appears to be carrying it in season seven. Fans first noticed the blade on Arya's hip in Maisie Williams's new Entertainment Weekly cover and costume reveal.

While naysayers were quick to shoot down the inclusion of the dagger as some sort of prop fluke, another GOT season seven promo featuring the dagger - a Facebook post from HBO Nordic - seems to confirm that it was intentional.

Why It's Significant

You might recall the dagger from season one, when an assassin is sent to Winterfell to kill a comatose Bran Stark in his own bed. Of course, because Catelyn Stark doesn't stray far from Bran's side during this time, she intercepts the assassination attempt with her bare hands, fighting off the attacker until Bran's direwolf, Summer, mauls him.

This leads Catelyn to King's Landing in search of the dagger's owner, where Lord Petyr "Littlefinger" Baelish reveals that the dagger belongs to Tyrion Lannister. Armed with this knowledge, the lady of Winterfell proceeds to take Tyrion hostage when they cross paths on the King's Road, sparking events that lead to Ned Stark's death, and thus the War of the Five Kings.

Of course, it turns out that said dagger had actually been lost in a bet; Tyrion Lannister has nothing to do with the assassination attempt on Bran Stark. Littlefinger merely uses the knife's origins to sow chaos and mistrust between Winterfell and King's Landing, knowing that war will suit his own purposes. (In the books, Joffrey Baratheon is the one who sends the assassin to kill Bran).

What the Dagger Could Mean For Season 7

So, why is it significant that Arya has the dagger in season seven? Well, we've previously predicted that Arya will kill Littlefinger this season, upon returning to Winterfell and finding him attempting to manipulate her remaining family members.

Arya is no stranger to sweet revenge, and stabbing Littlefinger with such a significant blade would be just up her alley.

An important facet of this prediction is that Arya will run into The Hound while traversing The Riverlands, and that he will reveal the extent of Littlefinger's betrayal of the Stark family. The knowledge that Baelish betrayed Ned Stark to the Lannisters in season one, then essentially sold Sansa Stark to a monstrously abusive husband in season six, would easily be enough to prompt Arya to murder him.

But if The Hound also reveals the true story behind the assassination attempt, Arya will have even more reason to slay Littlefinger. After all, by intentionally misinforming Catelyn about the dagger, he sparks events that directly leads to the deaths of Ned, Catelyn, and Robb Stark - and, as far as Arya knows, the rest of her siblings, too.

And wouldn't the justice of killing the wormy, manipulative Littlefinger be all the more sweet if done with the very dagger that started it all? Arya is no stranger to sweet revenge, and stabbing Baelish with such a contextually significant blade would be just up her alley.

As for how Arya comes to possess the dagger, so far we've only got vague guesses. Guess we'll have to wait until season seven begins to see what's in store, eh?

A Simple Brain Trick For Dealing With Mean People

For all the times we've felt angry or hurt but not fully expressed our emotions, we turn to our friends at YourTango for a new way of thinking about conflicts.

Genius.

"I am so sick of moving you out of apartments. I've moved you out of five apartments in four years and enough is enough!!"

"You know Jeremy threw me out and I have to move today! I thought we were friends, but I guess if you have to go to your niece's baptism instead of helping me move my few paltry items a few blocks that tells me how you really feel about me!"

"If I gave you a kidney you'd think I was a bad friend!"

"Don't worry about it, because you wouldn't give me a kidney if I was on death's doorstep!"

"Ahhhhhhhhhhh!" (sound of me screaming)

This is an argument I had with a "friend." Except for the fact that the friend wasn't actually present!

It was the argument I had in my head waiting in line at the grocery store to buy laxatives since my annoyance rendered me constipated.

Have you ever had feuds with those you love or loathe in your head? Literally spending hours - nay, days and weeks - grappling with this person and they don't even know about it?

I'm going to say this because I want you to know that I love you and I'm on your side: You may be right.

This person you're arguing with in your head may indeed be a martyr, sadist, cheater, suffocatrix (not a word, but should be) and just all-around annoying as crap. But if this is a person you must have in your life (a child, a mother-in-law, a boss, a co-worker, a spouse you don't want to divorce) then the bottom-line is: it's your problem.

And you're the only one who can fix it.

So, here's how to deal with mean people:

My client Christine came to me for advice about her mom, Susan. This was their cycle:

  • Susan frequently offered to pay for things when she was with Christine; restaurant bills, movie tickets, cab rides which Christine often accepted.
  • Susan also had unexpected fits of rage directed toward Christine which included blaming, shaming and crying.
  • Following which Christine spent days arguing with her mother in her head!

This was taking up a great deal of room in Christine's emotional life.

When we're dealing with mean people, it helps to understand that they have emotional triggers stemming from childhood hurts that cause them to act out in destructive ways. Christine's mom might've been a people-pleaser (giving to maintain serenity in her childhood home), who ended up resenting it and exploding at inappropriate times in adulthood.

First, I told Christine she had to create a healthy boundary by not allowing her mom to pay for her. Until she did that she'd feel responsible for Susan's flare ups.

Next, I gave her a little brain trick to learning how to deal with mean people.

We've all sustained emotional childhood injuries because no parents are perfect, but there's definitely a sliding scale and mean people may be more injured than the rest of us. So let's trick ourselves.

If you knew the person raging, criticizing, guilting or shaming you had been in a traumatic car accident and had sustained a brain injury, and that every time they acted out it was the brain injury at fault, how would that make you feel?

Maybe you'd feel more neutral. After all, you don't have to take the mean behavior personally, it's that damn brain injury.

Maybe you'd feel less ashamed, less defensive. Less triggered yourself.

Maybe you could detach from them with compassion. Because nine times out of ten it's not about you.

Maybe then you could act, rather than react to the mean person's behavior.

Christine stopped allowing her mom to buy her things. That pissed Susan off too! (People aren't always happy when we set healthy boundaries.) She blew up at Christine, saying she'd always need her help and eventually come begging for money.

Christine stepped outside of the situation and observed her mother like a doctor would her patient. Boy was that brain injury wreaking havoc. Christine just let that wave of aggression roll on by.

Eventually, Susan calmed down, since Christine wasn't fighting back. That's when Christine was able to reach for her mother's hand and say, "You don't have to give me money to see me. I love you, and that's enough."

Christine had NO IDEA where that came from. But she was available to it. Susan burst into tears and they embraced. While their relationship isn't perfect, they've come to a new level of understanding.

So give it a try when your boss goes off on you or your mother-in-law criticizes your mothering. Consider that an injured part of them makes them mean. Don't take it personally. Take a deep breath, detach.

More from our friends at YourTango:

Why Jessica Simpson Should Let Her Daughter Wear Whatever the Hell Bikini She Wants

Show Off Your LGBTQ Pride With This $30 Magical Unicorn Pool Float