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.
mercredi 7 juin 2017
Here's What to Do (ASAP!) If an Airline Loses Your Luggage
Worst-case scenario: you've landed at your destination after a long flight and watched as every single bag has come and gone on the conveyor belt at baggage claim. Your luggage? Nowhere to be seen. It's every traveler's most dreaded situation, but it happens. Bags get routed to the wrong airport, damaged, or lost to the airport abyss, never to be seen again. The first (and most important) step to avoid losing something extremely special to you is to pack your valuables in your carry-on. Still, sometimes bags simply have to be checked, so here are some tips for what to do if your luggage is lost.
1. Go to the baggage claim office at the airport.
As soon as you realize that your bags are never coming down that conveyor belt, make sure to be proactive and notify the airline immediately. The sooner you start the process of finding your lost luggage, the sooner the issue can (hopefully) be resolved. In many cases, the bag was not lost but was put on the wrong flight. Make sure to get a copy of your report so that you can have proof should you need it at any point.
2. Know your luggage!
"Know the brand, color, and size of your luggage," said Richie Copelovitch from iFLY Luggage. The better you're able to describe your missing luggage, the easier it will be for the airline/airport to find it.
3. Don't lose your baggage claim tag!
In the bustle of showing your ID, getting your plane tickets, dropping off your bags, and getting through security, it's easy to lose track of things. However, it's very important that you hang on to the baggage claim ticket/sticker given to you (often stuck to your boarding pass). In the case of lost luggage, you'll need this!
4. Find out what the airline policy is in terms of monetary compensation.
"Different airlines have different policies," Copelovitch said. "If your bag is lost for more then 24 hours, the airlines will help you to buy clothes until they get your bag to you." Oftentimes, you can also find the maximum amount of claims you can take on the back of your plane ticket. Make sure to look out for this.
5. Let your luggage come to you.
"Don't volunteer to come back to the airport to get your lost bag," Copelovitch advised. "The airlines will get your bag to you. It's their responsibility. Simply let them know where you will be staying so they can send it to you."
6. Ask the airlines to provide toiletries and necessities.
"If you need bathroom amenities such as toothbrush, deodorant etc., the airlines often have kits available with their lost baggage staff." Let the airlines know what you need, and you should be able to get must-have items to help hold you over until you can get your luggage back.
7. Stay diligent!
The airlines are dealing with a slew of issues on a daily basis, so don't let your lost luggage fall through the cracks. "Keep checking with your airline," Copelovitch said. "Don't let them forget about you. Do it nicely. The airline does not care that you will not have clothes for Aunt Millie's wedding; don't tell them the stories that they don't need to know. It won't get you your bag faster."
8. Get travel insurance.
Travel insurance helps cover some, if not all, of your losses in the event that your luggage is missing for a certain period of time or if it is lost and cannot be located.
9. If your luggage is truly lost, set a claim.
Chances are you won't be getting compensation for the full price of your lost luggage, but make sure to set a claim with the airline in order to get as much reimbursement as you can. Be honest about the worth of your bags - making up a number larger than what your luggage was worth could lead to your claim being completely denied.
Some helpful tips for keeping track of your luggage:
- Get an identification for your bags! All airlines supply paper tags for free, but those are flimsier and more likely to be damaged. It's a good idea to get a sturdy tag that's secure on your bag so that you can easily identify your luggage and so that, in the case of lost luggage, it's easier to find.
- Double-check the tags on your bags before they are sent down the conveyor belt. "When the bag is tagged at check-in, check the tag before it goes down the conveyor belt to make sure it is going where you are going," Copelovitch said. "Airport agents are very busy and can easily make mistakes. It is your job to make sure that the correct name and destination is on the tag. All tagged bags have your name and destination on them."
- Avoid overweight bags. "If the baggage handler can't lift the bag, it may get put aside. If the aircraft is overweight, it will get put aside. Aircrafts need to adhere to strict weights and balances to ensure flight safety. They will remove bags if they have to. You may be able to get it by the check-in agent, but you won't get it by the handlers. If there is no heavy tag on it and it is overweight, you're in for trouble."
- Make sure your luggage is in good enough condition to fly. Be on the lookout for broken zippers, holes, or places in your bags that are susceptible to ripping or breaking. "If that happens before your bag makes it to the plane, it will get put aside without question. If your luggage is worn out, replace it to save a lot of headaches," Copelovitch said.
17 Ways to Show You're "Feminist AF" All Year Long
When you shop the latest collaborations from your favorite designers in honor of feminism, you won't forget about what you bought. These graphic tops, silk scarves, and patches are more than just wear-it-once souvenirs that we eventually stow away. They're a reminder to stay proud, fierce, fearless females and support one another year round.
In fact, we encourage you to keep all the items ahead in steady rotation, perhaps even more so than your plain, go-to white tee. All of the pieces here are stylish, but a handful of them benefit organizations like Planned Parenthood and Free the Nipple. Before you make your purchase, read up on where the proceeds go. That should give you more than enough of a final nudge to shop.
Federal government calls roadside drug-test device trial a success despite cold weather issues
The federal government is declaring its testing of saliva drug screening devices that check for drugged drivers at the roadside has been a success despite remaining issues related to how accurate test results are in cold weather conditions.
These Are the 21 Hottest June Beauty Launches You Need to Own
As we embrace June's warmer weather, our beauty routines are getting way lazier - and we mean that in a good way. We will be air-drying our hair with sea salt sprays, dabbing on a bit of sexy, musky, ocean-inspired perfume oils, and keeping it minimally chic when it comes to makeup. Here, we're sharing the just-launched hair, skin, fragrance, and makeup products we plan to use down to the very last drop (#empties).
These Are the 21 Hottest June Beauty Launches You Need to Own
As we embrace June's warmer weather, our beauty routines are getting way lazier - and we mean that in a good way. We will be air-drying our hair with sea salt sprays, dabbing on a bit of sexy, musky, ocean-inspired perfume oils, and keeping it minimally chic when it comes to makeup. Here, we're sharing the just-launched hair, skin, fragrance, and makeup products we plan to use down to the very last drop (#empties).
17 Ways to Show You're "Feminist AF" All Year Long
When you shop the latest collaborations from your favorite designers in honor of feminism, you won't forget about what you bought. These graphic tops, silk scarves, and patches are more than just wear-it-once souvenirs that we eventually stow away. They're a reminder to stay proud, fierce, fearless females and support one another year round.
In fact, we encourage you to keep all the items ahead in steady rotation, perhaps even more so than your plain, go-to white tee. All of the pieces here are stylish, but a handful of them benefit organizations like Planned Parenthood and Free the Nipple. Before you make your purchase, read up on where the proceeds go. That should give you more than enough of a final nudge to shop.
Cute Gifts Your Best Friend Will Want to Display on Her Desk
Best friends put a unique stamp on life. Whether they live across the country or in your same neighborhood, having someone reliable in your life who answers when you need them is what long-lasting friendships are built from. Show the BFF you value your bond by picking out something unique for her office. It'll put a unique stamp on her desk, and she'll think of you every time she gets to work.
Ed Sheeran Once Smacked Justin Bieber in the Face With a Golf Club When He Was Hammered
Ed Sheeran participated in his first ever Carpool Karaoke session on The Late Late Show With James Corden on Tuesday night, and it was every bit as magical as we thought it would be. Not only did he make perfect harmony with the host as he crooned his biggest hits, but he also threw in a few songs by his famous friends, including One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful" and Justin Bieber's "Love Yourself," which he wrote. He even shared a hilarious story about when he got hammered in a bar in Tokyo and ended up whacking Justin in the face with a golf club. Of course, one of the cutest moments had to be when Ed and James rapped to "Sing" without taking a breath.
25 Frida Kahlo Nail Art Ideas That Are a Work of Art
Known for her eclectic style and amazing talent, Frida Kahlo was one of a kind. The Mexican artist loved to rock simple but breathtaking headpieces, wear traditional Mexican clothing, and, above all, stay true to her unique beauty (and unibrow). You will love to re-create her most famous self-portraits on a much smaller canvas: your nails!
Everyone will be drooling over your work of art. You can go as simple as combining different motifs found on Frida's paintings (cats, cacti, flowers), using one of her trying deep quotes, or actually embodying Frida on one of more of your nails. Keep scrolling to get some inspiration for your next manicure.
How to Properly Cook Ground Beef, in Pictures
Cooking ground beef on the stove top seems simple enough, but so much can go wrong. Have you ever crowded the pan too much, and found yourself with rubbery, steamed ground beef? Does your beef seep out a ton of liquid, or do you struggle to chop the meat up into bite-size pieces, resulting in "meat rocks" (as one editor's boyfriend hilariously dubs it)? If cooking perfectly ground beef eludes you, have no fear. These pictures will show you how to properly brown ground beef - or any ground meat, for that matter - so that your tacos, tomato sauce, and sloppy joes turn out tasty every time.
Ed Sheeran Once Smacked Justin Bieber in the Face With a Golf Club When He Was Hammered
Ed Sheeran participated in his first ever Carpool Karaoke session on The Late Late Show With James Corden on Tuesday night, and it was every bit as magical as we thought it would be. Not only did he make perfect harmony with the host as he crooned his biggest hits, but he also threw in a few songs by his famous friends, including One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful" and Justin Bieber's "Love Yourself," which he wrote. He even shared a hilarious story about when he got hammered in a bar in Tokyo and ended up whacking Justin in the face with a golf club. Of course, one of the cutest moments had to be when Ed and James rapped to "Sing" without taking a breath.
This Student Wrote 127 Pages in Response to an Infuriating Catholic School Assignment
I go to a Catholic high school, and they wanted me to write a paper on why gay marriage is "wrong and dangerous", so instead I wrote this 127 page paper. from lgbt
One Catholic high school student in Missouri is going viral for sharing the details of their shocking religion class assignment - along with the epic way they responded to it.
Reddit user averagesmurf recently shared the above photo, showing the cover of their latest morality class assignment. The student's teacher allegedly assigned the high school students to write a paper about why gay marriage is "wrong and dangerous," but this teen had a little something different up their sleeve. Instead, they cranked out a whopping 127 pages about why gay marriage is actually "fabulous," backed up with Bible references and historical quotes.
The post garnered more than 900 comments from people who offered up both positive and negative reactions. Some praised the student's work, with one user saying, "Good job :) hope you got an A." Yet others were suspicious that the photo was a fluke, with another user writing, "This smells like bullsh*t to me, 127 pages is stupidly long and I doubt any school would assign an essay about the dangers of gay marriage."
So, the student shared a few now-deleted snapshots of supposed pages from the assignment to prove its validity. The typed pages incorporate multiple Bible quotes and citations to support the student's argument that gay marriage should not be frowned upon by the Church. On top of that, the student offered up an in-depth explanation of what the assignment entailed.
Though we may not know for sure whether this student's assignment was real, we sure hope it is, because it looks like some people in this world still need to broaden their viewpoint on this hot topic.
'Addiction claimed his life': Scott Oake opens up about son's battle with drugs
The veteran CBC Sports announcer from Hockey Night in Canada and the Olympics opens up about his son's battle with addiction and his family's fundraising efforts for a long-term treatment centre in Winnipeg.
This Bride's Lavish Wedding Dress Draped Over Her Horse, Which She Rode Into the Reception
Swimwear designer Leslie Amon just made the case for a short wedding dress. For her big day, Leslie walked down the aisle in a one-shoulder poufy sleeve Giambattista Valli creation that was both dramatic and bold. The embellished minidress hit mid thigh while a long, white train flowed out behind the bride. The fashion house even gave her dress a shout out on Instagram.
Leslie had a star power moment of her own when she arrived at the reception on a white horse. After, at the beautiful dinner held at the Palace of Versailles, which was Marie Antoinette-themed, Leslie ditched her lace-up heels for a pair of cool light-up sneakers that magically matched her stunning wedding dress. And if you thought the gown looked familiar, it's because the design's reminiscent of Kendall Jenner's recent Cannes look, also by Giambattista Valli. Scroll on to see all the best 'grams from the wedding.
15 OITNB Stars Who Are in Cute Committed Relationships
Orange Is the New Black returns for season five on June 9. In addition to being obsessed with Poussey and Taystee's onscreen friendship, we also love the fact that the cast are friends in real life. Still, we often find ourselves wondering about their love lives. Who's dating, who's engaged, and who's married? While the actors are actually pretty private when it comes to their relationships, here's everything we could dig up.
This Student Wrote 127 Pages in Response to an Infuriating Catholic School Assignment
I go to a Catholic high school, and they wanted me to write a paper on why gay marriage is "wrong and dangerous", so instead I wrote this 127 page paper. from lgbt
One Catholic high school student in Missouri is going viral for sharing the details of their shocking religion class assignment - along with the epic way they responded to it.
Reddit user averagesmurf recently shared the above photo, showing the cover of their latest morality class assignment. The student's teacher allegedly assigned the high school students to write a paper about why gay marriage is "wrong and dangerous," but this teen had a little something different up their sleeve. Instead, they cranked out a whopping 127 pages about why gay marriage is actually "fabulous," backed up with Bible references and historical quotes.
The post garnered more than 900 comments from people who offered up both positive and negative reactions. Some praised the student's work, with one user saying, "Good job :) hope you got an A." Yet others were suspicious that the photo was a fluke, with another user writing, "This smells like bullsh*t to me, 127 pages is stupidly long and I doubt any school would assign an essay about the dangers of gay marriage."
So, the student shared a few now-deleted snapshots of supposed pages from the assignment to prove its validity. The typed pages incorporate multiple Bible quotes and citations to support the student's argument that gay marriage should not be frowned upon by the Church. On top of that, the student offered up an in-depth explanation of what the assignment entailed.
Though we may not know for sure whether this student's assignment was real, we sure hope it is, because it looks like some people in this world still need to broaden their viewpoint on this hot topic.
This Bride's Lavish Wedding Dress Draped Over Her Horse, Which She Rode Into the Reception
Swimwear designer Leslie Amon just made the case for a short wedding dress. For her big day, Leslie walked down the aisle in a one-shoulder poufy sleeve Giambattista Valli creation that was both dramatic and bold. The embellished minidress hit mid thigh while a long, white train flowed out behind the bride. The fashion house even gave her dress a shout out on Instagram.
Leslie had a star power moment of her own when she arrived at the reception on a white horse. After, at the beautiful dinner held at the Palace of Versailles, which was Marie Antoinette-themed, Leslie ditched her lace-up heels for a pair of cool light-up sneakers that magically matched her stunning wedding dress. And if you thought the gown looked familiar, it's because the design's reminiscent of Kendall Jenner's recent Cannes look, also by Giambattista Valli. Scroll on to see all the best 'grams from the wedding.
25 Frida Kahlo Nail Art Ideas That Are a Work of Art
Known for her eclectic style and amazing talent, Frida Kahlo was one of a kind. The Mexican artist loved to rock simple but breathtaking headpieces, wear traditional Mexican clothing, and, above all, stay true to her unique beauty (and unibrow). You will love to re-create her most famous self-portraits on a much smaller canvas: your nails!
Everyone will be drooling over your work of art. You can go as simple as combining different motifs found on Frida's paintings (cats, cacti, flowers), using one of her trying deep quotes, or actually embodying Frida on one of more of your nails. Keep scrolling to get some inspiration for your next manicure.
How to Properly Cook Ground Beef, in Pictures
Cooking ground beef on the stove top seems simple enough, but so much can go wrong. Have you ever crowded the pan too much, and found yourself with rubbery, steamed ground beef? Does your beef seep out a ton of liquid, or do you struggle to chop the meat up into bite-size pieces, resulting in "meat rocks" (as one editor's boyfriend hilariously dubs it)? If cooking perfectly ground beef eludes you, have no fear. These pictures will show you how to properly brown ground beef - or any ground meat, for that matter - so that your tacos, tomato sauce, and sloppy joes turn out tasty every time.
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?
5 Secrets to Make Curls Stay in Any Hair Type (Even Yours!)
Given the number of rollers, curling irons, and flatiron on the market designed to curl hair, you'd think by now getting long-lasting waves would be easy. But many of us still struggle to make a curl last more than a few minutes. The good news is there are usually some very simple ways to stop your curls from dropping or falling out completely. Whether you have fine hair that always falls flat, or super straight locks that just won't bend, we can help.
1. Change the State
The best way to make a curl stay in hair that is not naturally curly is to change the state of the hair as you curl; do this by going from wet to dry or from hot to cold. A wet set is more gentle and will always last the longest as the hair dries in shape. To do a wet set, wash and towel-dry hair, add your chosen holding product, then create your curls either with velcro rollers, your fingers and clips, rags, or bendy rollers (don't use heated tools on wet hair). Let the hair dry completely before removing. For quicker results, going from hot to cold will have the same effect, using hot rollers, steam rollers, curling iron, flatiron, or something similar.
2. Use Product, Always!
When you're trying to get your hair to do something it doesn't naturally do, you need to give it a helping hand. Don't expect a curling iron or GHD flatiron to work miracles on its own. Use some product! Firstly, for hot tools you'll need a heat protector like L'Oreal Paris Studio Pro Heat It Hot & Curl Heat Spray. Then choose a holding product that will give added oomph. If you hair has a natural wave, a curl-enhancing mousse like Schwarzkopf Got2Be Twisted Curl Mousse will help to provide hold and lasting power. But if you have straight hair, you'll need something really powerful. Superdrug Setting Lotion Extra Firm is like liquid hair spray. It's not the most glamorous product, but it will definitely help to hold a curl.
3. Let It Set
One of the biggest mistakes we make when trying to create a lasting curl is to use a tool like a curling iron, wand, or flatiron. These are great for ease of use and will give a nice temporary curl, but those curls will drop very quickly, especially if you have fine hair, or very heavy, long locks. You can still use your heated tools for a longer lasting curl, just add in one extra step. Clip each tonged coil to your head as you curl it, letting it sit on the head until it's completely cooled down. This goes back to point number one: you need to change the state to set the curl. Speed things up with the cool-shot button on your hair dryer, and only shake the hair out when it's stone cold. Your curls will last twice as long this way.
4. Leave Your Rollers In For as Long as Possible
Hot rollers are great for retro waves and styles that require lots of body, but most tutorials tell you to leave them in for only 10 or 20 minutes. This is fine if you're using them for volume or to smooth hair ready for an updo, but if you want curls that last through a night of dancing, then you need to let those hot rollers cool completely . . . which in our experience can take up to a couple of hours in thick or long hair. Plan ahead and keep your rollers in as long as you can. And don't forget to use a styling product!
5. Adjust Your Cut
If you have particularly thick or long hair, you'll probably struggle to get a DIY curl to stay in. The longer your hair gets, the heavier it is and the harder it'll be to get a uniform curl to stay. You may find the ends go frizzy and curly, but the lengths fall flat. You have a few options to fix this. Firstly, get lots of layers chopped in - especially around the front - to reduce weight and give the hair some bounce. You should find that these shorter sections curl better. Secondly, chop your hair a few inches shorter. The simple truth is super long hair will not curl easily if it's naturally straight. Finally, if you can't bear to face the scissors, try twisting wet hair into a bun (or two buns for very thick hair) and sleeping on it, or try headband curls; dampen your hair, part it as usual, and put a narrow stretchy headband over your head so it sits halfway down your forehead and quite high at the back of the head. Starting from the front, take a section of hair from below and wind it up and round the band over and over again, adding more hair each time as you move around the head (as if you're creating a big croissant with your hair). Leave this in for as long as possible - overnight is best. When you pull out the band, your hair will sit in bouncy, full curls!
How George Clooney's Thoughts on Marriage and Fatherhood Changed Once He Met Amal
Image Source: Getty / Mike Coppola
George Clooney may now be happily married to wife Amal and a father to two babies, but long before the human rights lawyer came along, George was one of Hollywood's hottest bachelors. The actor swore he would never get married again (he was married to actress Talia Balsam from 1989 to 1993) and even said he didn't "have that gene that people have to replicate." Well, a whole lot has definitely changed since then. Take a walk down memory lane and look back at George's most memorable quotes about marriage and fatherhood.
Image Source: Getty / Sean Gallup
Before Meeting Amal
- On romantic relationships: "I've had some absolutely great relationships and some not so great relationships. I've been in some relationships where I've felt terribly alone. Just because you're with someone it doesn't mean you're incredibly happy and complete."
- On why he never used to talk about marriage: "I don't talk about it because I don't think about it. I don't ever question other peoples' versions of how they live their lives or what they do."
- On why he wasn't married with children: "I haven't had aspirations in that way, ever. I was married in 1989. I wasn't very good at it. I was quoted as saying I'll never get married again pretty much right after I got divorced and then I've never talked about it since."
- On vowing to never get married again: "Marriage? Who knows? I've been married. It's not something I'm looking out for. Things could always change, but it's not a consideration right now. The truth is I'm really happy. The things that are a drag in my life are so outweighed by the things that are great. I have families that I spend my days with, and friends I spend my days with, and people I care very much about. I get to do what almost no one gets to do. My life's really good."
- On having kids: "I think it's the most responsible thing you can do, to have kids. It's not something to be taken lightly. I don't have that gene that people have to replicate. But everything in my life has changed over time."
Image Source: Getty / Axelle/Bauer-Griffin
After Meeting Amal
- On finding "the one": "I have someone who I can talk to about anything and someone who I care more about than I've cared about anybody."
- On his marriage proposal: "I knew fairly quickly that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with Amal (but) we had never talked about it so there wasn't like a 'Hey, maybe we should get married.' Literally, I dropped it on her. And she just kept saying, 'Oh my god,' and 'Wow' – completely unexpected. We just sat there and finally I said, 'Listen, I'm 52 and I've been on my knee now for about 28 minutes, so I gotta get an answer out of this or I'm going to throw a hip out. I might not be able to stand back up.'"
- On being called a power couple: "I don't think of us as a power couple, because I don't know what that means. I would think a power couple is like, Bill and Hillary seems to be a power couple. I think we're just a couple with great interest in the human condition. I don't think of that as particularly powerful; I just think of it as our responsibility as people on the planet."
- On Amal's pregnancy: "We are really happy and really excited. It's going to be an adventure. We've sort of embraced it all . . . with arms wide open."
- On his and Amal's plan once their twins are born: "We have the chance to live between three countries: Italy, America, and England. But as soon as the children go to school, it'll be necessary to choose where to settle. In the meantime, we will continue to move according to our respective schedules."
18 Statement Heels That Will Make You Cry Tears of Fashion Girl Joy
Shoes have a special place in my heart. Buying a good pair of heels is the ultimate solution for bad days, heartbreaks, and amping up boring outfits. This year, designers have really stepped up their game when it comes to statement-making high heels. There are so many bold, fun options that it's hard to choose. Whether you need a new pair for a formal event or to wear everyday with your distressed jeans, we've got you covered. Take a look at our favorite picks for 2017.
18 Statement Heels That Will Make You Cry Tears of Fashion Girl Joy
Shoes have a special place in my heart. Buying a good pair of heels is the ultimate solution for bad days, heartbreaks, and amping up boring outfits. This year, designers have really stepped up their game when it comes to statement-making high heels. There are so many bold, fun options that it's hard to choose. Whether you need a new pair for a formal event or to wear everyday with your distressed jeans, we've got you covered. Take a look at our favorite picks for 2017.
Why I’m Taking My Toddler to Pride and How You Can Too
With temperatures continuing to rise and nights becoming a little lighter, I am reminded that Summer festival season is upon us. Soon our days will be filled with carnivals, food fests, and block parties peppering the neighborhood. But before I can ride the Ferris wheel and stuff my face with processed meats on sticks, I'm taking my 2-year-old to Pride.
As a heterosexual cisgendered white lady, I've never really had to fight for my place in society. No one has ever assumed that my sexuality was a phase or that my gender identity was wrong. I've never had to wonder whether or not holding hands with my husband was going to make someone uncomfortable or be faced with backlash. It's a remarkable privilege that I am very aware of, and I want my son to be aware of too.
Maybe by going to Pride consistently as a kid, he will see how vibrant and different we all really are.
Previous Pride parades and festivals that I have been to seek to celebrate a life of diversity, love, and inclusion. I may not be part of the vibrant LGBTQ community, but I am an ally. I will be supportive, listen, and add an extra voice - Pride is an observance of these things. I hope that my son will be raised in an environment that respects diversity, and maybe by going to Pride consistently as a kid, he will see how vibrant and different we all really are.
All that said, taking a 2-year-old to any festival seems nerve-racking, let alone one that is known for being nudity-friendly, sexually explicit, and frankly not entirely for kids. Add in the usual issues with parades and festivals like crowds, navigating traffic, and potential tantrums, and it can all be very daunting.
However, children should still be present, for at least some portion of the activities. If the longstanding motto of Pride is, "We're here, we're queer, get used to it," then ally children and their families can only help to demonstrate society's growing acceptance. Armed with my own reasons for going, I've devised a small plan of attack to ameliorate my own concerns about taking a toddler to a huge event, and maybe these tips can help your family as well.
- Let's talk about sex, baby. I'm in the super sweet spot with my toddler in that he's old enough to get some enjoyment out of Pride but not so old that I need to really be concerned about what he sees. After all, I still occasionally change in front of him and he doesn't seem too scarred, or even curious, from that. However, I know your toddlers and children might be more aware of their surroundings and naturally you're going to see some things that might prompt questions. Start the conversation early, telling them about what they'll see and allow them to ask questions. At the event, if you're uncomfortable, go somewhere else. Be prepared that there is a possibility that they may ask what a dildo is, and I think it's up to you to determine how honest you want to be. While sex is a part of Pride, it's not the only part. Point out the things that you do want them to see, and when in doubt, distract them with rainbows and colors.
- Festival vs. Parade. When determining what to see, both the festival and parade have a lot going for them. The parade will have floats, motorcycles, and lots of other exciting things to watch. But if your kid is like mine, the thought of getting somewhere super early (HA!) and sitting down in one location for more than five minutes is next to impossible. The festival, while potentially difficult to navigate due to the sheer number of revelers, is where we will be spending most of our time. There will be booths, music, and lots of things to eat. However, if your kid is more willing than mine to sit for long periods, try to set up a station with a Pack n' Play near where the floats line up (pro tip: bring a fitted sheet to place over the top to protect them against the sun). Bring lots of toys, books, and snacks, and be prepared for long stretches of time when the parade is stagnant.
- Like the Boy Scouts, always be prepared. Although normally I would consider myself pretty relaxed, this is not the time to "go with the flow." Know your parade route and festival map. If your child is potty trained, know where the porta-potties are. Have multiple exit points planned in your head and come prepared. I'm bringing an umbrella stroller for the walk over to the festival and for the way home but plan on locking it up at a bike station if it looks too crowded. Bring a backpack of snacks, toys, extra diapers if needed, wipes, and water bottles. As a secret weapon, don't forget to pack the bubbles, because nothing eases the threat of a potential meltdown like bubbles. Plus, the other festivalgoers will enjoy them too, because at the end of the day, who doesn't like bubbles?
- Go early, leave early. There are some who think that Pride isn't for children, not because they're worried about children being "exposed to the homosexual agenda," but because there are people who want to party and shouldn't need to curtail that because someone brought their kids along. I get the concerns and in trying to be respectful of that and to avoid the real crazy parties, I plan to go as early as possible and leave before my son's afternoon naptime. My Pride festival, the one in Chicago, opens at 11 a.m., and I will be grateful if we manage to last until 12:30. After all, naps still need to be had and it's better to leave happy than cranky.
- Above all, know your kid. My son, while obviously a perfect human being, often needs time to adjust to new surroundings and crowds. This means that I will avoid the music stages until he is acclimated and that I'll bring extra diapers just to make sure he's extra dry and comfortable. Your kid may do better giving them something to focus on immediately, like dancing, so devise your plan based on your own kid. Although in my head this day will go smoothly, I know that there is a possibility that it will be too much for him, in which case we will walk away, try again next year, and find a spot for brunch where we can people watch and blow all the bubbles we can.
Honoring a Legend: A Tribute to Prince's Electrifying Style
In just 57 years, Prince lived the life of a legend. He lit up the stage with his iconic vocals, changed the music industry with his unique sound, and ignited the fashion world with a whimsical wardrobe all his own. In his wake, we're reminded of the magic in his bold style, a head-to-toe look he crafted and made his own with bright suiting, tunics, aviators, and rocker flares that became quintessentially Prince.
His influence has inspired generations and will be celebrated, but never replicated. Here, we're paying homage to the "Purple One" on what would have been his 59th birthday with a look at his fashion legacy.
Why I’m Taking My Toddler to Pride and How You Can Too
With temperatures continuing to rise and nights becoming a little lighter, I am reminded that Summer festival season is upon us. Soon our days will be filled with carnivals, food fests, and block parties peppering the neighborhood. But before I can ride the Ferris wheel and stuff my face with processed meats on sticks, I'm taking my 2-year-old to Pride.
As a heterosexual cisgendered white lady, I've never really had to fight for my place in society. No one has ever assumed that my sexuality was a phase or that my gender identity was wrong. I've never had to wonder whether or not holding hands with my husband was going to make someone uncomfortable or be faced with backlash. It's a remarkable privilege that I am very aware of, and I want my son to be aware of too.
Maybe by going to Pride consistently as a kid, he will see how vibrant and different we all really are.
Previous Pride parades and festivals that I have been to seek to celebrate a life of diversity, love, and inclusion. I may not be part of the vibrant LGBTQ community, but I am an ally. I will be supportive, listen, and add an extra voice - Pride is an observance of these things. I hope that my son will be raised in an environment that respects diversity, and maybe by going to Pride consistently as a kid, he will see how vibrant and different we all really are.
All that said, taking a 2-year-old to any festival seems nerve-racking, let alone one that is known for being nudity-friendly, sexually explicit, and frankly not entirely for kids. Add in the usual issues with parades and festivals like crowds, navigating traffic, and potential tantrums, and it can all be very daunting.
However, children should still be present, for at least some portion of the activities. If the longstanding motto of Pride is, "We're here, we're queer, get used to it," then ally children and their families can only help to demonstrate society's growing acceptance. Armed with my own reasons for going, I've devised a small plan of attack to ameliorate my own concerns about taking a toddler to a huge event, and maybe these tips can help your family as well.
- Let's talk about sex, baby. I'm in the super sweet spot with my toddler in that he's old enough to get some enjoyment out of Pride but not so old that I need to really be concerned about what he sees. After all, I still occasionally change in front of him and he doesn't seem too scarred, or even curious, from that. However, I know your toddlers and children might be more aware of their surroundings and naturally you're going to see some things that might prompt questions. Start the conversation early, telling them about what they'll see and allow them to ask questions. At the event, if you're uncomfortable, go somewhere else. Be prepared that there is a possibility that they may ask what a dildo is, and I think it's up to you to determine how honest you want to be. While sex is a part of Pride, it's not the only part. Point out the things that you do want them to see, and when in doubt, distract them with rainbows and colors.
- Festival vs. Parade. When determining what to see, both the festival and parade have a lot going for them. The parade will have floats, motorcycles, and lots of other exciting things to watch. But if your kid is like mine, the thought of getting somewhere super early (HA!) and sitting down in one location for more than five minutes is next to impossible. The festival, while potentially difficult to navigate due to the sheer number of revelers, is where we will be spending most of our time. There will be booths, music, and lots of things to eat. However, if your kid is more willing than mine to sit for long periods, try to set up a station with a Pack n' Play near where the floats line up (pro tip: bring a fitted sheet to place over the top to protect them against the sun). Bring lots of toys, books, and snacks, and be prepared for long stretches of time when the parade is stagnant.
- Like the Boy Scouts, always be prepared. Although normally I would consider myself pretty relaxed, this is not the time to "go with the flow." Know your parade route and festival map. If your child is potty trained, know where the porta-potties are. Have multiple exit points planned in your head and come prepared. I'm bringing an umbrella stroller for the walk over to the festival and for the way home but plan on locking it up at a bike station if it looks too crowded. Bring a backpack of snacks, toys, extra diapers if needed, wipes, and water bottles. As a secret weapon, don't forget to pack the bubbles, because nothing eases the threat of a potential meltdown like bubbles. Plus, the other festivalgoers will enjoy them too, because at the end of the day, who doesn't like bubbles?
- Go early, leave early. There are some who think that Pride isn't for children, not because they're worried about children being "exposed to the homosexual agenda," but because there are people who want to party and shouldn't need to curtail that because someone brought their kids along. I get the concerns and in trying to be respectful of that and to avoid the real crazy parties, I plan to go as early as possible and leave before my son's afternoon naptime. My Pride festival, the one in Chicago, opens at 11 a.m., and I will be grateful if we manage to last until 12:30. After all, naps still need to be had and it's better to leave happy than cranky.
- Above all, know your kid. My son, while obviously a perfect human being, often needs time to adjust to new surroundings and crowds. This means that I will avoid the music stages until he is acclimated and that I'll bring extra diapers just to make sure he's extra dry and comfortable. Your kid may do better giving them something to focus on immediately, like dancing, so devise your plan based on your own kid. Although in my head this day will go smoothly, I know that there is a possibility that it will be too much for him, in which case we will walk away, try again next year, and find a spot for brunch where we can people watch and blow all the bubbles we can.
This New Feature Coming to iOS 11 Will Make Typing So Much Easier
With every iOS release, Apple somehow manages to downplay some of the more useful features coming to the iPhone. The company did it again with the reveal of iOS 11 at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) keynote on June 5. While iOS 11 will arrive with plenty of flashy features, it'll also finally have a one-handed keyboard.
The one-handed keyboard, which has existed on the iPhone since iOS 8 but wasn't easily accessible, is coming to iPhone in the Fall and is called QuickType Keyboard. To access it, you'll need to touch and hold down the emoji icon on your keyboard and choose the one-handed typing option. You'll then see your keyboard move to your thumb.
The feature will most likely bring relief to people who use the iPhone's bigger models (like the iPhone 7 Plus) and have smaller hands. And though the QuickType Keyboard isn't a swipe-to-type keyboard, which does make on-the-go typing easier, it's definitely a step toward that.
Honoring a Legend: A Tribute to Prince's Electrifying Style
In just 57 years, Prince lived the life of a legend. He lit up the stage with his iconic vocals, changed the music industry with his unique sound, and ignited the fashion world with a whimsical wardrobe all his own. In his wake, we're reminded of the magic in his bold style, a head-to-toe look he crafted and made his own with bright suiting, tunics, aviators, and rocker flares that became quintessentially Prince.
His influence has inspired generations and will be celebrated, but never replicated. Here, we're paying homage to the "Purple One" on what would have been his 59th birthday with a look at his fashion legacy.
The 6 Best Bathroom Design Tips From HGTV Stars
Considering how much time we spend in our bathrooms, you would think it would be the first place we want to update in our home. But the plethora of design options on everything from hardware to tiles to layout can be overwhelming, and as a result, an awkward, dated bathroom can remain that way for far too long. For inspiration on the best ways to overhaul this essential space, we turned to the pros at HGTV. Check out their best bathroom design tips below.
Drew and Jonathan Scott: Open
The reno-savvy siblings at the helm of Property Brothers: Buying + Selling know that a floor-to-ceiling glass-enclosed shower makes even a small bathroom feel open and spacious since it tricks the eye into thinking it's a wide open space.
Jillian Harris: Cover
Most designers only think of covering the kitchen counter with butcher block, but not Jillian Harris of Love It or List It Too. She put a slab of butcher block on the counter of a rustic bathroom, and since there was no space for a traditional sink to go, she placed a freestanding porcelain one atop the wooden surface for a contemporary look.
Tarek and Christina El Moussa: Appeal
Flipping houses has made this HGTV couple pros at knowing what the design elements everyone will love are. For a classic, contemporary bathroom with mass appeal, they go with white subway tile, simple shaker cabinetry, and neutral quartz countertops.
Candice Olson: Innovate
The star of Candice Tells All turns up the luxury by favoring high-tech bathroom options, such as a nightlight bidet and heated flooring. Despite the innovative appliances, she keeps her bathroom spaces looking more LA-glam than the Jetsons-futuristic by adding touches like shimmering tiles or turning a dresser into a vanity.
Chip Wade: Layout
Play with the space you're given. That's what the Elbow Room host excels at. He's even turned odd spaces like a cramped attic into a stunning bathroom. And he has no problem bucking the rules of convention when it comes to the placement of essential bathroom elements, such as the tub - why not plunk it down freestanding in the center of the room? - and his and her sinks - facing each other from opposite walls.
Sarah Richardson: Repurpose
As Sarah Richardson of Sarah's House knows, you can save money by repurposing vintage items. Case in point: the stylish, vintage table she topped with a marble top and used as a vanity.
How Losing Her Mom to Cancer Inspired This Woman to Make a Drastic Change
Sometimes it takes an overwhelming tragedy to make you realize your purpose in life. Such was the case for Jaime Wright, who made the major decision to leave her job as an attorney and start a nonprofit organization after losing her mother to cancer. Jaime was driven to make a difference in the lives of other cancer patients like her mom, so she and her family started Lolly's Locks (named after Jaime's mother, Lolly), which aims to bring dignity and privacy back to the lives of women going through cancer treatments by providing high-quality wigs.
In her own words, Jaime told POPSUGAR about her journey thus far and how building a career out of helping others has aided in her own personal healing.
POPSUGAR: Before founding Lolly's Locks in 2012, what kind of career path were you pursuing?
Jaime Wright: Before founding Lolly's Locks, I was an attorney. My focus was on labor law, and I loved the work, which, among other things, gave me a chance to work directly with individuals in their fight for their rights in the workplaces. I always wanted to use my law degree to make a difference in peoples' lives, and so this was a very satisfying path for me.
PS: What made you want to switch gears altogether and start this nonprofit?
JW: My mom was diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer just a couple of months after I had gotten married and started my job. My then-husband and I had no plans to start a family, but we decided to try to have a baby almost immediately after we learned about the grim prognosis my mom was facing. I got pregnant right away, which meant that my mom got to meet my son, her first grandchild. Sadly, she passed away when he was just 4 months old and while I was on maternity leave. Losing my own mom just as I became someone else's mom profoundly changed me, the way I looked at the world, and the impact that I wanted to make in it. I had loved working as an attorney but found it hard to go back to my old life now that so much had changed; I suddenly felt a very strong pull to do something to effect change within the community of people touched by cancer.
"Losing my own mom just as I became someone else's mom profoundly changed me, the way I looked at the world, and the impact that I wanted to make in it."PS: Was the decision to make such a career leap scary or uncomfortable? Or did you feel 100 percent sure of it?
JW: The idea of leaving a steady job to step into the unknown was terrifying but in an exhilarating way. Change is always uncomfortable, but I had a lot of perspective because of what I had seen and experienced during my mom's illness. Further, I saw this opportunity to do something positive with the tragedy that my family had been dealt as a tremendous gift and a way out of grief.
PS: Why did you and your family choose wigs, specifically, as the way you wanted to help serve adult cancer patients?
JW: My mom credited her wig with giving her a sense of normalcy during a time when life was anything but, and she was shocked and dismayed to find that high-quality wigs can cost thousands of dollars and that insurance policies generally offer little or no help towards the cost of such a wig. She felt like every cancer patient, regardless of their financial situation, should have the option of a quality wig that looked like their own hair and fit comfortably.
Most adult cancer patients who cannot afford a quality wig are forced to rely on wig banks stocking refurbished, used wigs, or very cheap wigs meant to be a temporary solution. While such programs can be an important resource, the women who seek to use them are faced with an extremely limited selection, often comprised of wigs that look nothing like their precancer hair and which do not even fit properly.
PS: What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in running a nonprofit?
JW: I am always trying to find a way to effectively communicate with two different audiences: recipients and donors. Lolly's Locks spends an average of $1,000 per recipient, so we have to raise a lot of money to carry out our mission. The last year has brought a lot of wonderful awareness of our organization. Unfortunately . . . the demand for wigs has been overwhelming, and, for the first time since its founding, Lolly's Locks has had to turn away potential recipients. The volume of applications we are now seeing drives home just how important our mission is to so many patients who want the ability to maintain control over how they look when they are going through cancer treatment, and I am more determined than ever to find a way forward where we don't have to turn deserving people away.
PS: What has surprised you the most about running Lolly's Locks?
JW: When I made Lolly's Locks my full-time job, I worried about the psychological impact of being surrounded by cancer. However, the patients and cancer advocacy community that are a part of my everyday are some of the most incredible people, and the hope that they have brought into my life has far outweighed the dark cloud of cancer. As a BRCA-positive woman with an exponentially increased risk of certain types of cancer, I am constantly inspired and bolstered by all of the powerful examples of how these amazing people that surround me gracefully live with and beyond cancer.
PS: Can you identify one moment or experience that totally affirmed your decision to start Lolly's Locks?
JW: Nothing is better than hearing from recipients whose lives we have impacted through this organization. Over the years, we have had the honor of serving over 475 cancer patients all over the country, and we have gotten letter after letter from people who describe the impact their wig has made in the quality of their lives as they go through treatment and beyond. The common thread is that through this one item, we have given these patients a sense of normalcy, dignity, and privacy. Every single time I read a recipient letter, I know I am on the right path.
PS: What advice might you give to young women thinking of branching off and starting their own venture (nonprofit or otherwise)?
JW: Keep your eye on the goal, and don't let your ego get in the way. Know your strengths and weaknesses and find great people who complement them to help carry out your vision. Treat those people well, empower them, and give them lots of credit!
Doing This 1 Simple Thing Can Cut Your Air-Conditioning Bill up to 40%
If you're seeking solace from the sweltering heat by camping out in your air-conditioned home, then your comfort might be short-lived and replaced by a different type of misery when the electric bill arrives. Luckily, we have a trick to keep the sweltering heat from withering your wallet this Summer: install a ceiling fan. That's right, a basic ceiling fan (like this $35 model at Home Depot) can decrease your air-conditioning bill by up to a whopping 40 percent. Mr. Handyman told POPSUGAR that ceiling fans help circulate the cool air more efficiently, allowing the air conditioner to do more with less energy.
"The use of a ceiling fan in an average-sized room can allow homeowners to raise the thermostat about four degrees without feeling any change in temperature," Mr. Handyman said. To amplify the cooling effects even more, he recommends switching the fan to a counterclockwise direction in the Summer, as this will push the air directly down. Now that's some cool knowledge!
Everything You Need to Know Before Your Next Bikini Wax
The bush is making a comeback. Yes, your mom's hippie belief that the more hair the better is returning in a big way. The good news: you'll have to endure far less pain at your next waxing appointment. Before you schedule (or cancel!) your Spring vacation hair-removal appointment, read our complete bush breakdown. We can't promise that the service will be painless, but at least you won't be embarrassed when the esthetician asks you to turn over.
Waxing Styles
- Full-Bush Brazilian: Hippies will rejoice at the latest waxing trend that's a cross between the bikini and the Brazilian. All the hair is removed from the buttocks and the labia, but the "bush" remains unscathed and free.
- Brazilian: You will be bald as a newborn baby after enduring this meticulous waxing service. All hair is removed from the top of the bikini area, inside the labia, and between the butt cheeks. This is definitely Miley Cyrus's favorite choice because of her high-cut costumes.
- Bikini: You can't mess with a classic. This option just removes the hair around your panty line. Traditionally you'll end up with a triangle shape. Feel free to request a trim, too. It's the perfect option for those into the high-waisted bikini trend or first-time waxers.
- Landing strip: This one is for fun-loving ladies who like shapes (hearts for Valentine's Day perhaps). It covers all the areas of a Brazilian wax, but leaves a shape of your choice, usually a vertical strip, on top.
Types of Wax
- Honey Wax or Sugaring: If you prefer an organic approach to hair removal or have sensitive skin, this should be your method of choice. These recipes are based on ancient hair-removal rituals. The mixture is a combination of honey, sugar, lemon juice, or water that is heated to a taffy-like consistency (pro: it's also easy to DIY). Because it's all-natural, this wax is more gentle on the skin, and it can be used cold (read: no burning). This sweet recipe also doesn't adhere to the skin - only hair - so pain is minimized.
- Hard Wax: This type of wax is smeared on in thick patches and removed without the use of cloth. The wax cools then hardens around hair. Try this method if you have coarse or thick hair around your panty line or underarms. This type tends to hurt less and is available at chains like Bliss Spa and European Wax Center.
- Strip Wax: Soft wax is the most well-known type. The product is used in conjunction with cloth to remove hair. This method is loved because it's quick, but painless . . . not so much. It is the ideal option for removing hair on large areas like legs and arms.
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 I 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 composed of soft fibers that hug and coat 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.
Everything You Need to Know Before Your Next Bikini Wax
The bush is making a comeback. Yes, your mom's hippie belief that the more hair the better is returning in a big way. The good news: you'll have to endure far less pain at your next waxing appointment. Before you schedule (or cancel!) your Spring vacation hair-removal appointment, read our complete bush breakdown. We can't promise that the service will be painless, but at least you won't be embarrassed when the esthetician asks you to turn over.
Waxing Styles
- Full-Bush Brazilian: Hippies will rejoice at the latest waxing trend that's a cross between the bikini and the Brazilian. All the hair is removed from the buttocks and the labia, but the "bush" remains unscathed and free.
- Brazilian: You will be bald as a newborn baby after enduring this meticulous waxing service. All hair is removed from the top of the bikini area, inside the labia, and between the butt cheeks. This is definitely Miley Cyrus's favorite choice because of her high-cut costumes.
- Bikini: You can't mess with a classic. This option just removes the hair around your panty line. Traditionally you'll end up with a triangle shape. Feel free to request a trim, too. It's the perfect option for those into the high-waisted bikini trend or first-time waxers.
- Landing strip: This one is for fun-loving ladies who like shapes (hearts for Valentine's Day perhaps). It covers all the areas of a Brazilian wax, but leaves a shape of your choice, usually a vertical strip, on top.
Types of Wax
- Honey Wax or Sugaring: If you prefer an organic approach to hair removal or have sensitive skin, this should be your method of choice. These recipes are based on ancient hair-removal rituals. The mixture is a combination of honey, sugar, lemon juice, or water that is heated to a taffy-like consistency (pro: it's also easy to DIY). Because it's all-natural, this wax is more gentle on the skin, and it can be used cold (read: no burning). This sweet recipe also doesn't adhere to the skin - only hair - so pain is minimized.
- Hard Wax: This type of wax is smeared on in thick patches and removed without the use of cloth. The wax cools then hardens around hair. Try this method if you have coarse or thick hair around your panty line or underarms. This type tends to hurt less and is available at chains like Bliss Spa and European Wax Center.
- Strip Wax: Soft wax is the most well-known type. The product is used in conjunction with cloth to remove hair. This method is loved because it's quick, but painless . . . not so much. It is the ideal option for removing hair on large areas like legs and arms.
16 Black-Tie Dresses at Every Price Point
A black-tie wedding, fancy dinner, or romantic evening at a five-star hotel restaurant may at first bring on the nerves. But think of this as an opportunity to get all dressed up rather than indulging in a "what should I wear?!" freak out. Invest in a quality design you'll want to show off at future events, not just because the gown is special, but because it invites so many compliments. The 16 labels below will help you get there.
You might be familiar with a few - namely Reformation, Self-Portrait, and Asos - but these brands have new styles to offer. Not one of the dresses below rings in over $800, but plenty fall below the $300 mark, leaving room for investing in an elegant clutch you'll wear for years or statement earrings you can later pair with a t-shirt and jeans. Scroll to get to familiarize yourself with our favorite fancy fashion destinations at every price point.
If You Want to Stay Married, Do These 10 Things Every Day
Getting married may seem like a feat, but these days, it's staying married that is the real task at hand. In a world that moves faster than we can really handle, it can be easy to let the basic tenets and principles of good love and partnership fall by the wayside, but don't let that be your marriage! Don't let it be you who is the lazy partner. Be present and aware of your partner and your marriage each day. Do these 10 things daily, and we won't be surprised when year after year, you're collecting another anniversary gift and enjoying another solid year of love with the person you said "I do" to!
1. Forgive
The best thing you can offer anyone you love is forgiveness. Each day, forgive. Forgive your partner for the flaws and mistakes. Unless it's a major sin or breach of trust and respect, forgive. Your partner will never be perfect. He or she will always annoy you. Forgive and you will be happy and so will your spouse.
2. Touch
It doesn't have to be a hot bedroom session, but touch your partner. Each day. Hug. Kiss. Hold hands. Rub his or her back. Touch. Touch is so vital - human contact reminds us that we're there for each other, literally.
3. Acceptance
This is similar to forgiveness but different. Forgiveness is allowing your partner to make mistakes - forget to clean the dishes or say something somewhat harsh or not notice a new haircut without shutting him or her out or getting angry.
Acceptance is recognizing that, for example, your spouse may always be reluctant to push forward to work or poor at making romantic gestures but that you still appreciate all the person does do for you. Acceptance is knowing your partner is great for what they excel at and not harping at what they are not good at!
4. Gestures
Making kind gestures toward your partner, whether it's making coffee or tidying up the bed or saying she looks pretty each day, is a sure-fire way to stay married, plain and simple. Small gestures add up to so much in our intimate relationships.
5. Kiss
This is different than touch but similar. Kiss. Kiss your spouse. Personally, I think a hot, passionate kiss should be shared each day, but if that's not you, at least reach up and give that honey a smooch. Lips are delicious. Share the one thing that way back in the day at kiss one had your knees shaking and your heart fluttering.
6. Listen
This is the hardest of them all - minus acceptance, I think. Listen to your spouse. Really listen. Ask questions. Every single day. Your spouse "says" so much even when he or she isn't directly saying something. Listening means hearing stuff we don't always want to hear, and listening means hearing stuff we somehow missed the day before. Just listen.
7. Ban Technology
Put aside the phone for, at the very least, one hour a night, daily. If you can put the phone away each night (and all tech), that's much, much better. Your iPhone, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, work emails, and texts won't make love to you, wipe your butt when you're old, or hold your hand when you're scared. Be present.
8. Ask
There is nothing more wonderful than someone asking how your day was. As someone who has been single for some time, I can say that with all certainty: your spouse - even if he or she isn't a talker - wants someone to ask how their day went, even if they respond, "I don't feel like talking about it." Knowing someone cares about how our day went is the most special of all.
9. Ask For Forgiveness
When you mess up somehow, each day - even in tiny ways - ask for forgiveness of your partner. Admit your limitations. Share your flaws. Be honest about who you are, what you did, and how you could be better.
10. Self-Care
Care for you. Care for yourself. Your health, physical and mental. Be mindful of your issues, no matter what they are, and be proactive. Taking care of you means you are a good partner and contributing to the relationship. When you don't care for yourself, you can't care for your spouse either!
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."
I think that instead of calling it the American Health Care Act, we should call it #AmericanDeathCareAct. https://t.co/vQB41Nwv7b
- Kim Weaver (@KimWeaverIA) May 5, 2017
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."
I wanted #KimWeaver IN the race-not out. Democrats drove her out of the race-not R's. Death threats likely didn't happen but a fabrication.
- Steve King (@SteveKingIA) June 4, 2017
16 Black-Tie Dresses at Every Price Point
A black-tie wedding, fancy dinner, or romantic evening at a five-star hotel restaurant may at first bring on the nerves. But think of this as an opportunity to get all dressed up rather than indulging in a "what should I wear?!" freak out. Invest in a quality design you'll want to show off at future events, not just because the gown is special, but because it invites so many compliments. The 16 labels below will help you get there.
You might be familiar with a few - namely Reformation, Self-Portrait, and Asos - but these brands have new styles to offer. Not one of the dresses below rings in over $800, but plenty fall below the $300 mark, leaving room for investing in an elegant clutch you'll wear for years or statement earrings you can later pair with a t-shirt and jeans. Scroll to get to familiarize yourself with our favorite fancy fashion destinations at every price point.
We're Not Exaggerating When We Say Disney's Spicy Mango Dessert Speaks to Our Soul
Nearly a month after unveiling a mango dessert bar doused in Tajín and chamoy, Disney California Adventure is back with another sweet treat that speaks to our soul. At the newly opened Bifrosties stand in Hollywood Land, you can now order the so-called Spinal Fluid dessert, which consists of banana shave ice topped with mango coulis and chili lime spices.
What's with the grim name? Well, all of the desserts at the stand are somehow associated with Guardians of the Galaxy as part of Disney's Summer of Heroes. As a result, the dessert will sadly only be available until Sept. 10.
If you're looking to upgrade the zesty dessert even more, you can pay an additional cost to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to the shave ice creation. According to a lucky someone who tried a different Bifrosties menu item, the shave ice dessert is priced at $5. Scroll ahead for more drool-worthy photos.
Make These 3 Changes, Burn More Calories
Exercise is essential when it comes to dropping pounds. So if you're eager to lose the weight, then here are three everyday changes that will help increase your calorie burn.
Hello Sunshine
Moving workouts to early mornings may mean cursing your alarm clock, but here's the big payoff: morning exercisers burn more calories. And now that the sun rises earlier, it'll be easier to pull yourself out of bed than it was in the Winter. Research shows that people who exercise in the a.m. work harder and for longer periods of time, which may be because they're more alert and energetic and they don't feel as rushed as afternoon or evening exercisers. Getting into a morning routine will also help you stick with it, which will help even more with your weight-loss journey.
Get Speedy
When it comes to cardio, running will help you lose more weight than walking since it burns more calories, but if you increase your speed just a little, then you'll burn even more. And don't stick to a consistent pace the entire workout. Adding sprinting intervals is an effective way to increase your calorie burn and has also been proven to reduce belly fat. Also be sure to swing those arms as you move, and you'll burn 15 percent more calories.
Strength Train in the Ladies' Room
Muscle burns more calories than fat does, so the more muscle mass you have, the better it is for weight loss. Don't just hit the weight room at the gym. Include strength-training moves throughout your day, such as push-ups on the bathroom counter and this two-minute butt and thigh workout while brushing your teeth. You can also work your body by carrying a basket instead of pushing a cart, using the stairs whenever possible, and sitting on an exercise ball instead of a chair.
10 Tarte Products You Need to Add to Your Stash
Over the years, I've watched with great interest as Tarte Cosmetics evolved from a one-product powerhouse brand to a dominating force in the beauty industry. Founder Maureen Kelly debuted the iconic Cheek Stain blush in 1999 on counters of the New York City department store Henri Bendel. Now, Tarte sells dozens of products around the world through retailers like Sephora, QVC, and Ulta.
While Tarte has expanded dramatically, one feature has remained the same throughout the company's history: dedication to good-for-you ingredients. Kelly calls the line "eco-chic" and has ensured that each product is paraben-, phthalate-, gluten-, and cruelty-free. The formulas also boast maracuja oil, Amazonian clay, and other naturally derived ingredients that make each item potent with skin care benefits as well as pigmented. Read on to shop some of my favorites.
On a Budget? Never Splurge on This Home Item
Custom shades can be shockingly pricey, but you shouldn't blow your decorating budget on expensive window treatments, especially if you're renting. If you prefer the polished look of curtains, these affordable curtain hacks will save you hundreds. If you like the tailored look of blinds, you can still find great deals, even if it requires a little more digging to find the right size. Designer and Little Green Notebook blogger Jenny Komenda relies on Lowe's for finding crazy-chic options at prices you wouldn't believe. She's had luck scoring affordable white cotton roman shades and tortoiseshell bamboo blinds that look like they cost a small fortune. Love Grows Wild blogger Liz Fourez can't get enough of these bamboo roman shades from Home Depot. If you're choosing bamboo shades, you can also try layering them underneath curtains to add texture, warmth, and even more light and privacy control.
Make These 3 Changes, Burn More Calories
Exercise is essential when it comes to dropping pounds. So if you're eager to lose the weight, then here are three everyday changes that will help increase your calorie burn.
Hello Sunshine
Moving workouts to early mornings may mean cursing your alarm clock, but here's the big payoff: morning exercisers burn more calories. And now that the sun rises earlier, it'll be easier to pull yourself out of bed than it was in the Winter. Research shows that people who exercise in the a.m. work harder and for longer periods of time, which may be because they're more alert and energetic and they don't feel as rushed as afternoon or evening exercisers. Getting into a morning routine will also help you stick with it, which will help even more with your weight-loss journey.
Get Speedy
When it comes to cardio, running will help you lose more weight than walking since it burns more calories, but if you increase your speed just a little, then you'll burn even more. And don't stick to a consistent pace the entire workout. Adding sprinting intervals is an effective way to increase your calorie burn and has also been proven to reduce belly fat. Also be sure to swing those arms as you move, and you'll burn 15 percent more calories.
Strength Train in the Ladies' Room
Muscle burns more calories than fat does, so the more muscle mass you have, the better it is for weight loss. Don't just hit the weight room at the gym. Include strength-training moves throughout your day, such as push-ups on the bathroom counter and this two-minute butt and thigh workout while brushing your teeth. You can also work your body by carrying a basket instead of pushing a cart, using the stairs whenever possible, and sitting on an exercise ball instead of a chair.
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.
The $50 Flats Gal Gadot Wore With Her Designer Gown Prove She Really Is a Superhero
For some, the mere thought of wearing flats with a dress could evoke some major insecurities, but Gal Gadot is basically saying f*ck that and wearing flats to even the fanciest red carpet events. On Thursday, May 25, Gal stepped out for the Wonder Woman premiere in Hollywood wearing a stunning red sequined Givenchy gown and a pair of $50 gold-studded sandals from Aldo.
Not only is she a superhero on the big screen, but she's also becoming something of a superhero in the fashion world, too. In fact, Gal has been wearing flats for the majority of her press tour for the movie, and her reason for doing so is perfect.
When the mom of two was asked about her shoe choice, she spoke for every single heel-wearing human: "It's more comfortable! Yeah," she explained.
.@GalGadot has a very simple reason for wearing flats instead of heels to the #WonderWoman premiere. http://pic.twitter.com/P6ytSnjOIu
- Variety (@Variety) May 26, 2017
Keep reading to see more photos of Gal rocking flats throughout her press tour for Wonder Woman, and let her inspire you to ditch heels the next time you go out.
How the 13 Reasons Why Cast Reacted to the Show's Suicide Scene Controversy
It's been a while since 13 Reasons Why premiered on Netflix, but people just can't seem to stop discussing one of the drama's most graphic, controversial scenes. The show follows quiet high school student Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette) after he receives a box of 13 cassette tapes from Hannah (Katherine Langford), his classmate and crush who killed herself a few weeks earlier. The writers and production team specifically didn't want to shy away from showing how Hannah kills herself, and a later scene in the series depicts the moment she graphically slits her wrists in a bathtub. Writer Nic Sheff wrote an op-ed defending the scene back in April, and on June 2, a few other important people from the show discussed their reactions to the controversy surrounding it at Netflix's 13 Reasons Why FYSee event.
"You always want to make a show that connects and I think we knew we were making a show we felt we were onto something with the show we were creating," executive producer and director Tom McCarthy explained to E! News. "You can never anticipate a response, especially with the young adult viewers . . . I don't know if controversy is the right word . . . it's a debate, it's a conversation and there are [people] on both sides who have very strong reactions to it, and I think that's exciting." He further added that the decision to show Hannah's death in that way was the result of a lot of back and forth, and they didn't approach it lightly. "You know they're going to live on, as this one has, but I feel as a company we felt this was the best way to go at it," he said. "To not shy away, and to really present it as it is. That came through a lot of discussion and serious thought and I think we all stand by it."
Langford, the 21-year-old Australian actress and Hollywood newcomer who knocked it out of the park with her first role, approached playing her character very seriously. On top of working with a psychiatrist, she also met with Rebecca Kaplan, the director of It's On Us, an organization dedicated to ending sexual assault. "I think by that point I had been playing Hannah for six months," she said of filming the contentious scene. "It was definitely something that we had precursors to . . . throughout the course of the season. I think part of it was just kind of having a backstory for Hannah and kind of having vicariously living through the events she's been through."
Minnette, her costar, admitted that he expected the controversy, but thought it would erupt far sooner than it did. "I thought it was going to come even quicker because I don't think people are used for this being addressed to their faces like this, so full on," he told E! News. "I knew it was going to come, and I think a lot of it has been for the better because it's only started more conversations."
Regardless of how you feel about the scene personally, there's no denying that its inclusion in 13 Reasons Why has sparked an important dialogue and touched many fans of the show. With a second season of the Netflix hit on the way, hopefully we can all look forward to similarly nuanced storytelling and honest depictions of the struggles teenagers face daily.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Decorating Your Living Room From Scratch
Congrats! You finally snagged that dream apartment downtown or your first home in that impossibly cute neighborhood. You have a lot to celebrate, but once the fun begins to die down, you start to slowly come to terms with one significant fact: now you have to decorate this brand-new space! And while some of you may delight in this idea, most of you will probably become slightly unnerved at the thought of beginning an entire room design from scratch. So to save yourself those anxious and overwhelming vibes, we decided to make it easy for you by reaching out to Kara Cox from Kara Cox Interiors for some much-needed interior advice! Read on as we share her key insights on how to tackle a home design from start to finish, starting with one of your most-used spaces: your living room!
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