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.
lundi 4 septembre 2017
The Details of Laci Peterson's Murder Will Still Chill You to Your Very Core
There are very few murder investigations that capture the attention of the entire country, but the ones that do usually stay with people forever. Laci Peterson became one of those cases when she went missing on Christmas Eve in 2002. While any missing persons case is devastating, people became enamored with the beautiful 27-year-old because she was eight months pregnant with her son, who was to be named Connor, when she vanished. Those closest to Laci, and the general public, couldn't understand why someone would want to hurt a woman who didn't appear to have any enemies. But as the days turned into weeks following her disappearance, the details of what happened slowly began to fill in the confusing puzzle, and it still remains one of the most chilling murder cases in recent years.
Laci's husband (and Connor's dad), Scott Peterson, quickly became the police's main suspect due to his bizarre behavior, his repeated refusals to take a polygraph test, and his general lack of interest in the investigation's progress. Scott was eventually found guilty of murdering his wife and unborn son and was sentenced to death in 2004. He is currently on death row at San Quentin State Prison in California, where he recently spoke out for the first time in over a decade for A&E's docuseries The Murder of Laci Peterson. Here are six heartbreaking facts from one of the most infamous murder cases in history.
1. Laci Was Last Seen on Christmas Eve 2002
On the morning of Dec. 24, 2002, Scott left their Modesto, CA, home to go fishing, while Laci took their dog for a walk. Later that afternoon, a neighbor saw their dog wandering around while still wearing its leash. Scott later told police that after leaving their house that morning, he went to his nearby warehouse to send emails and get his boat, which was backed up by email time stamps and a warehouse receipt. He said that after about 90 minutes of fishing, he returned home to an empty house and showered, thinking Laci had gone over to her mom's house. Scott called Laci's parents that evening to ask if they knew where she was, and they immediately called police to report that she was missing.
2. Scott Quickly Became a Suspect
While many murder victims die at the hands of someone they know, it was Scott's questionable behavior in the days after Laci's disappearance that put him at the top of the suspects list. Police reported that Scott almost immediately began referring to Laci in the past tense as if she wasn't alive anymore, even before they found her body. But the biggest bombshell of all came when Scott's mistress, Amber Frey, revealed their relationship to the media shortly after she learned about Laci's disappearance. Amber agreed to record her phone conversations with Scott without his knowledge, and she told police that two weeks before Laci went missing, Scott had told her he was a widower and that this would be the first Christmas without his wife. Scott was also photographed laughing and smiling at a vigil for Laci just a few days after she went missing, where he called Amber and pretended he was partying in Paris on New Year's Eve.
3. Laci and Connor's Bodies Were Mutilated
In April 2003, four months after Laci went missing, a couple out walking their dog discovered Connor's body washed up on the San Francisco Bay shore. Plastic tape was reportedly found around his neck, and there was also a large cut on the right side of his body. One day later, Laci's body washed ashore just one mile from where Connor was found. She was decapitated, both forearms were missing, her right foot was severed, and the bottom half of her left leg was missing. Because her body was badly decomposed, her exact cause of death couldn't be determined.
4. Scott Appeared to Be on the Run When He Was Arrested
After months of speculation, Scott was arrested on April 18, 2003, at a golf course in San Diego, where he said he was staying to avoid media attention. At the time of his arrest, he was carrying $15,000 in cash, four cell phones, his brother's ID, and camping gear and had dyed his hair blond.
5. Scott Was Sentenced to Death
His trial began in June 2004, and a judge sentenced him to die by lethal injection that November. Similarly to O.J. Simpson's trial, people all over the country gathered in public places to hear the verdict and celebrate his conviction together.
6. He Still Maintains His Innocence
In a recorded phone call with his sister-in-law, Janey, from June 2017, Scott spoke from his prison cell about the moment the guilty verdict was read, saying he "had no idea" the jury would think he did it. "When they told me, I had just a terrible physical reaction," he said. "I mean it was a really emotional, physical reaction. I couldn't feel my feet on the floor. I couldn't feel the chair I was sitting in. My vision was even a little blurry. And I just had this weird sensation that I was falling forward - and forward and down and there was going to be no end to this falling forward and down, like there was no floor to land on. I, I was staggered by it. I had no idea it was coming." Scott is still appealing his case.
Laguna Beach May Be Long Gone, but Stephen Colletti Is Still a Total BABE
I had a laundry list of onscreen crushes growing up - Ethan Craft from Lizzie McGuire, Zack from The Suite Life of Zack of Cody, and Drake Bell from Drake and Josh, to name a few - but they all paled in comparison to the dreamboat that is Stephen Colletti. Every time I heard Hilary Duff belt out "Come Clean" during the intro of Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County, I knew I was in for 30 minutes of straight-up drooling while watching Stephen endure his drama-packed relationship with Kristin Cavallari. Stephen may have moved on from his MTV days, but he sure as hell hasn't lost those charming good looks that made him the heartthrob of every teenage girl's dreams. Stephen is like a fine wine - he only gets better with age, and the photos below most certainly prove that. All in favor of a modern-day Laguna Beach reboot, please say "aye!"
15+ Chewy Cookie Recipes to Live For
If you live for a chewy cookie, preferably one that is practically still dough, it's understandable. It might be considered a sin in some households (um, definitely mine) to overcook a batch of dough to jaw-breaking crispness. Thankfully, with these recipes, there's none of that - only ultragooey morsels. Dig in!
Ulta's 21 Days of Beauty Sale Is Here, and Here Are the Products Editors Suggest You Shop
Ulta addicts, your time has come. The megaretailer has announced its biannual 21 Days of Beauty Sale, and jeez, is it exciting. For three weeks, your favorite products from Too Faced, Urban Decay, Stila, It Cosmetics, and more will be discounted. Basically, now is your chance to curate an entirely new Fall makeup wardrobe.
To stop the sale from looking intimidating (and because we just love looking at all the products), we found every single product that will be discounted each day. Beauty junkies, consider this your sale game plan. Instead of stalking the site all month, you can read on for a breakdown of this entire amazing promotion. And if you really want to get some cool swag from Ulta, enter our exclusive POPSUGAR daily giveaways from the retailer and shop even more products from the sale.
8 Skin-Perfecting Concealers to Try If You're Not Into Foundation
It's probably safe to assume that most beauty enthusiasts have a love-hate relationship with foundation. Shade matching is frustrating AF. Formulas and textures are tricky. Blending, even for pros, can sometimes go all wrong. If you've successfully navigated the world of foundation, hats off to you. For the rest of us, concealer has got us covered . . . literally. Celebrity makeup artist and beauty entrepreneur Archangela Chelsea Yusuf shared a few tips for pulling off just concealer:
Don't stress over getting an exact color match.
Unlike foundation, getting a concealer that's slightly lighter than your natural skin tone can be a good thing. That's especially true for the eye area, where most of us can use a little brightening - it can help hide and brighten dark circles. Be sure to only cover the uneven areas of your face.
Use the right tools.
Concealer is best applied with your finger. Doing so will help warm up the formula so that it melts into your skin. You could also try a blending sponge for an even buff. The good thing is that many concealers are buildable, so even if it's not a spot-on color match, with the right tools, it'll look seamless.
Pay attention to your eye area.
It's the thinnest layer of skin, so make sure to use the right formula for it. If you have any under-eye creasing or dryness, use a sheer concealer so that it doesn't amplify fine lines. "If your eyes are puffy, then use a heavier concealer to help cover that swollen part for a more lifted effect," Yusuf suggested.
Be sure to set it.
No matter how much or how little makeup you wear, you want it to stay put. A spritz or light dusting will keep your concealer from sliding off your face as the day progresses.
Now, read through to find your best formula for no-makeup makeup perfection.
14 Drugstore Beauty Products You Need in Your Life This Fall
Between Labor Day sales, Ulta's 21 Days of Beauty, and E.L.F. launching a new product every day this September, there's a lot for beauty-lovers to be excited about right now . . . and some of the best is still yet to come.
That's because some of the drugstore beauty launches we've been looking forward to for months are finally hitting stores, and we can't wait to share them all with you.
From Sally Hansen's highly anticipated salon chrome kits (they're as easy and striking as we imagined) to NYX's answer to the metallic lip trend taking over this Fall (and, of course, some pumpkin spice products along the way), read on for 14 cosmetic, skin, and body products that will enhance and inspire this season, some as low as $3.
This Moment From Lady Gaga's Concert Is Exactly Why She's Such an Icon
When I went to night two of Lady Gaga's Joanne world tour stop at Citi Field in Queens on Tuesday, I wasn't expecting to fear for her life. If anything, as a huge Gaga fan, I feared that my own heart might give out. But, lo and behold, as she climbed on top of her piano at the end of "Come to Mama," with a torrential rainstorm pouring down around her and making the stage slick under her high-heeled boots, I felt my stomach tighten for one brief moment.
Then I remembered who the f*ck I was watching - did I really think a little bit of rain was going to stop Lady Gaga?
Although her collection of cotton-candy-colored wigs, eye-popping costumes, and, of course, her pink cowboy hat managed to stay dry throughout her Monday night performance, Tuesday was a different story. Following an up-close-and-personal tour of her stage before the show, courtesy of Citi, where I got to see what it really looks like behind those massive screens, the heavens opened up and I joined the crowd in slipping on a baggy plastic poncho.
Now, Gaga obviously wasn't going to swap her ice-blue, pearl-studded bodysuit or her hand-painted V2Bentley jacket for waterproof gear, no matter what the weather situation was like. Instead, she rocked those costumes right into into the rain, abandoning the dry safety of her stage's overhang and strutting onto the catwalk that extended into the audience. The result, which should come as no surprise to anyone who's been lucky enough to witness one of Gaga's electric performances live, was one hell of a concert.
"So about an hour and a half before I came on stage tonight, they told me that it was broken," Gaga said, referring to the complex mechanics of the Joanne tour's sets. "I thought about it. And I thought, 'Well, I'm not broken, so . . .'" The crowd erupted in loud cheers and applause. "You know, it's really cute what [the stage] does. It goes up and down, and it's like an illusion and some sh*t. But you know what isn't an illusion? My voice. What is not an illusion is when we're dancing and playing live for you all night long. And when they told me it was raining and I'd probably slip in my heels, I said, 'No, that's also not an option, not in New York.' Here we learn how to dance on wet concrete."
Ballads like "Come to Mama" and "Joanne," which are gorgeous as is, were only magnified by the sweeping drama of the rain. Even dance-heavy numbers, like "Alejandro" (which included a moment of her writhing around on stage as it poured), suddenly became that much more intense.
In her hometown, where Gaga promised us all that she was "gonna throw down New York style, real raw for you tonight," she delivered (and then some).
This Moment From Lady Gaga's Concert Is Exactly Why She's Such an Icon
When I went to night two of Lady Gaga's Joanne world tour stop at Citi Field in Queens on Tuesday, I wasn't expecting to fear for her life. If anything, as a huge Gaga fan, I feared that my own heart might give out. But, lo and behold, as she climbed on top of her piano at the end of "Come to Mama," with a torrential rainstorm pouring down around her and making the stage slick under her high-heeled boots, I felt my stomach tighten for one brief moment.
Then I remembered who the f*ck I was watching - did I really think a little bit of rain was going to stop Lady Gaga?
Although her collection of cotton-candy-colored wigs, eye-popping costumes, and, of course, her pink cowboy hat managed to stay dry throughout her Monday night performance, Tuesday was a different story. Following an up-close-and-personal tour of her stage before the show, courtesy of Citi, where I got to see what it really looks like behind those massive screens, the heavens opened up and I joined the crowd in slipping on a baggy plastic poncho.
Now, Gaga obviously wasn't going to swap her ice-blue, pearl-studded bodysuit or her hand-painted V2Bentley jacket for waterproof gear, no matter what the weather situation was like. Instead, she rocked those costumes right into into the rain, abandoning the dry safety of her stage's overhang and strutting onto the catwalk that extended into the audience. The result, which should come as no surprise to anyone who's been lucky enough to witness one of Gaga's electric performances live, was one hell of a concert.
"So about an hour and a half before I came on stage tonight, they told me that it was broken," Gaga said, referring to the complex mechanics of the Joanne tour's sets. "I thought about it. And I thought, 'Well, I'm not broken, so . . .'" The crowd erupted in loud cheers and applause. "You know, it's really cute what [the stage] does. It goes up and down, and it's like an illusion and some sh*t. But you know what isn't an illusion? My voice. What is not an illusion is when we're dancing and playing live for you all night long. And when they told me it was raining and I'd probably slip in my heels, I said, 'No, that's also not an option, not in New York.' Here we learn how to dance on wet concrete."
Ballads like "Come to Mama" and "Joanne," which are gorgeous as is, were only magnified by the sweeping drama of the rain. Even dance-heavy numbers, like "Alejandro" (which included a moment of her writhing around on stage as it poured), suddenly became that much more intense.
In her hometown, where Gaga promised us all that she was "gonna throw down New York style, real raw for you tonight," she delivered (and then some).
15+ Outrageous Takes on Hot Dogs
While the weather still permits, grill up one of these indulgent hot dog recipes. From classic takes like bacon-wrapped to internationally inspired like banh mi, these hot dogs have one thing in common: they will make you crave cookout foods STAT.
Jeff Goldblum Is Now Chef Goldblum, Sensually Serving Sausages From a Truck
Hello there, friend. I'm here to talk to you today about a topic near and dear to my heart: Jeff Goldblum. And also sausage. But mostly Jeff Goldblum. As if the silver fox's many talents (including his proclivity for smooth jazz) weren't already endearing enough, he went and opened his own food truck - under the appropriate moniker of "Chef Goldblum's," naturally.
The food truck, from which a better-with-age Goldblum hand-delivered sausages, handshakes, and happiness, is located on the streets of Sydney. The truck is reportedly part of a publicity stunt for a mysterious new project that Goldblum is currently filming in Australia. And while, yes, I'm curious about the project . . . I'm far more curious about the likelihood that I'll be able to consume lunch prepared by the jazz-piano-strengthened-hands of Goldblum here in the US.
Unfortunately, since it seems location-specific, the odds are slim. But I'm not giving up hope - in my experience, food, uhhh, finds a way. And that doesn't mean that we can't enjoy photos of a beaming Goldblum delivering lunch to happy Australian passersby. Scroll on to experience the joy of Chef Goldblum!
Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor Didn't Start Dating Until Almost a Decade After They Met
Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor first started dating in 2015 (much to the excitement of fans), but they've actually known each other for quite some time. Nearly a decade ago, the pair met at a dinner party when the American Horror Story star was still in a long-term relationship with actress Cherry Jones. Even though she was taken at the time, Sarah said she couldn't help but think that Holland was "the most exquisitely beautiful woman" she'd ever seen.
A few years later, fate intervened when they crossed paths again and recorded videos for Martha Plimpton's nonprofit organization, A Is For. They started following each other on social media, one flirty direct message led to another, and they decided to go on a dinner date. And, well, the rest is history. Even though there is a 32-year age gap between the women, it's clear they share a special bond. "There's a poignancy to being with someone older," Sarah said. "I think there's a greater appreciation of time and what you have together and what's important, and it can make the little things seem very small."
How to Cut Up a Watermelon, in Pictures
It's tempting to purchase watermelon already peeled and cubed, but we'd urge you not to. Not only is precubed watermelon more expensive, but it's also prone to having a mealy, mushy texture. (Once cut up, watermelon has a relatively short shelf fridge life.) Instead, follow these simple step-by-step instructions and do it yourself.
8 Surprising Food Facts Every Costco Shopper Needs to Know
There's so much to love about Costco, including fun facts you might not have heard before. We reached out to a Costco representative to get the scoop on little-known food facts about one of the most budget-friendly grocery stores in the nation to hear about some of the store's fascinating stats. From shocking tidbits about the crazy-popular rotisserie chicken to refreshing facts about some of the cheapest food-court eats, these facts will surprise and delight any major Costco fan. After testing your knowledge, check out some of our favorite foods from Costco plus more grocery store policies you should be taking advantage of.
- Costco has sold more than 600 million rotisserie chickens worldwide.
- That's more than 208,000 per day and 56 million in the year of 2015 alone.
- The pumpkin pies have been the same price since 1995 ($6).
- Customers also love the dinner rolls; more than 17 million were sold in just three days leading up to Thanksgiving in 2015.
- Costco's head wine buyer, Annette Alvarez-Peters, was featured as one of Food & Wine's most innovative women in food and drink in 2014.
- Costco's classic hot dog and soda combo meal is the same price it was 30 years ago, $1.50. In 2015, Costco sold more than 120 million hot-dog-and-soda combinations worldwide, including more than 80 million in the US.
- People are in a pretty serious relationship with Costco's famous pizza. In 2015, Costco food courts sold 19 million whole pizzas and 53 million pizza slices.
- People really love Jelly Belly jelly beans. In 2015, Costco sold enough Jelly Belly jelly beans that if you laid them end to end, they would wrap around Earth's equator - that's 24,901 miles.
Here's Exactly What Was in the Letter Jon Snow Wrote Sansa That Made Her So Mad
Sansa Stark and Jon Snow's relationship hasn't exactly been as strong as we would have hoped lately on Game of Thrones. While Jon has been off securing dragonglass weapons to fight the White Walkers and nearly dying at the skeletal hands of thousands of wights (and oh, yes, getting it on with his aunt), Sansa has been struggling to keep the North together.
Fortunately with Bran and Arya by her side, she's able to eliminate the manipulations of Littlefinger in the season seven finale and emerge stronger from the whole situation. Before that, though, she gets a letter from Jon that gives her pause, and she vents her frustrations to the still-alive Petyr Baelish. She reveals that Jon has pledged the North's allegiance to Dany, but now we know exactly what the letter said thanks to HBO's behind-the-scenes website for the show, Making Game of Thrones.
In all its glory, it reads:
"Sansa,
Cersei Lannister has pledged her forces to our cause, as has Daenerys Targaryen. If we survive this war, I have pledged our forces to Daenerys as the rightful Queen of the Seven Kingdoms. We are both coming to organise the defence of the realm.
Jon Snow, Warden of the North"
Although seeing the letter isn't an earth-shattering revelation, it's nice to see how Jon chose to let Sansa know about developments in King's Landing (even if she's unhappy about it).
5 Things to Bring to a Job Interview
Job hunting is a process more people are having to go through as companies undergo big layoffs in the face of a challenged economy. It's competitive out there and the little details matter more with crowded applicant pools. Make your case stronger by showing up prepared - check for these five items before you head out the door.
8 Fast-Acting K-Beauty Products For When You Just Don't Have Time For Acne
When you think of K-beauty, you probably picture luxuriously hydrating serums and sheet masks that yield perfectly dewy skin. If you suffer from acne, however, the last thing you want to do is feed your oily face a ton of heavy moisture. So, let's clear this up: it's a huge misconception that K-beauty products don't cater to banishing blemishes. In fact, no matter your preference or formula, there are tons of acne-fighting solutions out there. Whether you're a sheet mask hoarder or a spot treatment fiend, these K-beauty products will even out your complexion so it's just the way you like it.
George W. Bush Opens Up About His Heartwarming Connection With Michelle Obama
At the opening ceremony for the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016, Michelle Obama embraced George W. Bush in a sweet and unexpected moment. Now, the former president is opening up about their friendship and that hug which he described as a "genuine expression of affection."
In an interview with People regarding upcoming book and art exhibit, Bush explained why he and the former first lady get along so well. "She kind of likes my sense of humor. Anybody who likes my sense of humor, I immediately like," he said.
Bush then recalled other heartwarming times he's shared with the Obamas. "I can't remember where else I've sat next to her, but I probably have a few wise cracks and she seemed to like it okay," he said. Adding, "I needle her a little bit and around her, I'm fairly lighthearted. They're around serious people all the time and we just took to each other."
Moving forward, he says he hopes to work more closely with the Obamas and Bidens on their Joining Forces initiative, which offers support for veterans, military personnel, and their families.
Here's Your First Peek at Fall's New TV Shows!
This is a hugely exciting time for TV addicts: shows have been canceled and renewed left and right, and networks are unveiling their plans for the Fall. Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, and The CW have already made some big announcements about the new shows they've greenlit for the 2017 to 2018 season, and we can't wait to sink our teeth into them. Lucy Hale, Adam Scott, Emily VanCamp, and more stars are returning to primetime! See what shows you'll be obsessed with come Fall.
You Might Freak the F*ck Out When You See What Pennywise the Clown Looks Like IRL
Image Source: Everett Collection, Getty / Jamie McCarthy
With a new iteration of Stephen King's bone-chilling It coming to the silver screen, that means a fresh take on Pennywise the Clown has also arrived. While the terrifying villain from the 1990 miniseries appeared more as a standard clown, just scarier (crisp white face paint, a red nose, bright red hair, Gwen Stefani in 2000-thin eyebrows), the latest version of Pennywise is significantly more horrifying. So, who's the man underneath the clown's fearsome veneer? Swedish actor Bill Skarsgard.
You might recognize Skarsgard's name thanks to older brother Alexander Skarsgard, famous for True Blood and Big Little Lies or their father, longtime actor and Thor star Stellan Skarsgard. It also isn't his first foray into horror. After racking up a host of roles in movies like Simple Simon (for which he was nominated for the Swedish equivalent of an Oscar), Anna Karenina, and Victoria, he starred on all three seasons of Netflix's Hemlock Grove as Roman Godfrey, a half vampire.
Since then, he's gone on to play Matthew in the dystopian YA series Allegiant and German informant Merkel in this Summer's spy thriller Atomic Blonde.
So, while you might feel your heart leap into your throat when you first lay eyes on the new Pennywise - who's grittier, scarred, and giving new meaning to the phrase "ten-head" - just know that there's a pretty sexy, normal Swedish guy underneath all those prosthetics.
What the Wall's Destruction Means For the Next Season of Game of Thrones
The unthinkable has finally happened: the Wall came tumbling down on Game of Thrones, thanks to the undead Viserion's fiery blast. It was the very definition of an OMG moment, and now that we've had time to scrape our jaws off the floor, it's time to consider what the fall of the Wall means for Westeros. In short, it means everyone is screwed, but this new development is sure to make season eight an intense ride. The Night King and his army are officially marching south, and the barrier between Westeros and the true North is no more. Everything the citizens of the Seven Kingdoms thought they knew about their world is about to change in a major way.
Season eight is still a long (long) way off, but the destruction of the Wall is such a major event that the time to start thinking about the ramifications is now.
The Wall's Magic Has Been Broken
Bran the Builder, the Children of the Forest, and the giants teamed up to build the Wall thousands of years ago when the Children of the Forest's little White Walker experiment got out of hand. They used a mix of good old-fashioned manual labor and magic to construct the massive barrier between Westeros and the expansive North, with the goal being to prevent the White Walkers from ever entering the Seven Kingdoms again. In season six, Benjen Stark tells Bran and Meera that "ancient spells were carved into its foundation" and that as long as the Wall stood, the dead would never pass.
That magic couldn't withstand the onslaught of a dragon, though, and it's safe to say whatever spells were in place have effectively been broken. With so few practitioners of magic left, there's little hope of rebuilding the Wall. Everyone who lives in Westeros needs to band together to destroy the White Walkers for good this time, because there is no plan B. If they leave even one wight alive, they're doomed.
The Illusion of Safety Will be Gone
Sam spent most of season seven trying to convince the maesters that the Night King and his army were nothing to scoff at. However, Archmaester Ebrose's words sum up the reaction people had when Sam told them about the coming war: "The Wall has stood through it all, and every Winter that has ever came has ended." Ebrose and a whole lot of other people will now have to reevaluate their idea of safety because the Wall no longer stands.
The illusion that nothing beyond that great barrier could touch them is gone now. And with the Wall gone, fear is going to become a motivating factor for quite a few people. King's Landing may become flooded with refugees, which would put even more of a strain on the capital's food supply, while others may turn on the living as they scramble to keep themselves safe. More than that, the people are going to have confront the fact that this thing that they put so much faith in failed them and all of the stories they thought were fairy tales are real.
The Night King Is Free to Attack the Seven Kingdoms
After years of marching, the Night King is completely free to lay siege on the Seven Kingdoms. This isn't just scary because his army is deadly; it's terrifying because he now has limitless access to new recruits. Before, the only dead things he could raise were the ones beyond the Wall, but now he has access to everyone in Westeros. Meanwhile, Jon and Daenerys's army is finite. Expect more than one of your favorite characters to be turned before the war ends. With just six episodes left, Game of Thrones is going to be aiming to break as many hearts as possible.
The Night's Watch Will Be Forever Changed
With no Wall to guard, the institution of the Night's Watch may disappear forever. In recent history, they've been tasked with keeping the Wildlings out, but there's no time to hold on to petty grudges now. The Night's Watch no longer has a Wall to protect, and their true enemy is in the Seven Kingdoms. When the Great War ends, so will the brotherhood that has been protecting the realm since the Wall was built.
The North Will Fall First
It's no coincidence that almost all of the major players are currently in the North. Winterfell is sure to be a hub for the first part of season eight as the Night King's army pours into the region. Ideally, Jon, Daenerys, and their combined armies would be able to stop the White Walkers before they push further south. Unfortunately, that outcome seems unlikely, which means the North will almost certainly fall.
There Are Going to Be a Whole Lot of Battles
Season seven's battle scenes are sure to seem small in comparison to what lies ahead. With the White Walkers free to flood into Westeros, the skirmishes between the living and the dead will be epic. For viewers, that means you are almost guaranteed to see epic moments like Jaime and Brienne fighting side by side, Arya taking out a wight with her Valyrian steel dagger, and some dragon vs. dragon action as Drogon and Rhaegal face off against Viserion. Of course, some of our heroes will die, but the end of the Wall guarantees season eight will be a war story, and deaths are unavoidable.
The destruction of the Wall is a game changer. No one is safe going into season eight, and by the time the series ends, Westeros as we know it will be a very different place. Let's just hope it's still populated by the living.
25+ No-Bake Cheesecake Recipes That Practically Make Themselves
You don't need an excuse like National Cheesecake Day to bust out your mixer and a slab of cream cheese! Any hotter-than-hell day is reason enough to whip up one of these no-bake cheesecakes. The best news is, calling them "recipes" is a little generous as most are more like assembled ingredients. When dessert practically makes itself, how can you possibly resist putting in a little extra effort?
A Judge Called a Rapist a "Good Man" While Sentencing Him For 11 Counts
One would imagine that a repeat history of sexually abusing and assaulting family members would disqualify a person from being considered "extraordinary" and "good." But Fourth District Judge Thomas Low used those exact words to describe the convicted rapist standing before him on Wednesday in Provo, UT.
According to The Salt Lake City Tribune, Low "became emotional as he handed down a prison sentence" to former Mormon Bishop Keith Robert Vallejo, who was convicted of 10 counts of forcible sexual abuse and one count of object rape.
The judge stated: "The court has no doubt that Mr. Vallejo is an extraordinary, good man. But great men sometimes do bad things," reports The SLC Tribune. Vallejo's repeat abuse of two women (including his sister-in-law) is certainly extraordinary . . . in the disturbing, negative sense of the word.
Low's description of the convicted felon as "good" is a slap in the faces of his victims. That's why one of those victims, Julia Kirby, plans to file a judicial complaint against Judge Low.
"If he really, really cared about me or about the fact that this person was a criminal, he wouldn't have that kind of sympathy. It was shocking to me for that reason," Kirby said following Low's shocking courtroom comments.
Judge Low has faced criticism for his handling of the Vallejo case since before the inappropriate sentencing hearing commentary, particularly after allowing the former bishop to return home on bail to be with his wife and children, even after he was found guilty. Low's behavior regarding this specific case has resulted in a reported 40 emails, six voice mails, and multiple Facebook messages to the Utah Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission.
20 Photos That Prove Above-the-Elbow Tattoos Are Secretly Sexy
When it comes to deciding to get a tattoo, where you place it is just as important as what you're getting inked. If you're looking for a fresh idea, consider this subtle spot getting more and more popular: above the elbow. There's something a little secretive and sexy about the area - you can't directly see it yourself, nor can others see it when they're facing you. It's the ideal canvas for first-timers (especially if you're thinking of getting a tiny tattoo) and a pleasantly unexpected new spot for those who've tattooed everywhere else.
Bella Hadid jumped on the trend, recently going to celeb favorite Jon Boy for a delicate rosebud tattoo atop her left elbow. For even more inspiration, keep reading. You're going to want to pin these.
OMG Moët Now Sells Mini Bottles of Champagne by the 6-Pack Like Beer
If you have $100 to kill and want to drink like the stars, then I have a thrilling announcement for you: Moët & Chandon has started selling its mini bottles in a convenient six-pack, called the Moët Mini Share Pack. No, my friends, this is no $1 Trader Joe's canned wine. The mini bottles are filled with 187 milliliters of Moët's classic Imperial Brut (about one and a half glasses worth). Now, you aren't expected to swig this fine Champagne straight from the glass bottle directly. Each pack comes with golden flute toppers that you attach to the lip of the bottle, so you can drink out of your mini bottle like royalty. Don't know about you, but I WANT ONE.
10 Affordable Ways to Get the Bedroom of Your Dreams
If most of your decorating budget is going into the living room, you're probably panicking about your barren bedroom. Luckily, we've got your back. These affordable hacks only look expensive, so no one has to know you pulled it together on a shoestring budget. Check out our 10 favorite tricks for styling a dreamy boudoir.
Who's Still on Arya's Kill List on Game of Thrones?
Arya Stark is back in Winterfell on Game of Thrones, and she's in full revenge mode (with a side of some family bonding). Now that she's picked up a few tricks from the time she spent at the House of Black and White, she's using them to avenge her family, and she even dispatches of one of the most devious characters in the season finale - no tricks necessary. Arya had been merrily on her way to kill the queen, but decides to stop over at Winterfell right quick. When she finally reunites with her family, she also mentions the kill list - which Sansa initially laughs at, but then realizes it's a legit thing when Three-Eyed-Raven Bran mentions it too.
Arya's Kill List, if you don't remember, is the list of people she started reciting a few seasons ago after losing almost her entire family at the hands of various villains. There were 11 names on the list originally, which the fiercest Stark girl has not forgotten (except to eliminate one). If you've forgotten who's on it and what they did, we're reminding you of that and whether they're still alive (fun fact: the list is slightly different in the book than on the TV show).
Holy Sh*t, This Look at How Game of Thrones Is Made Is Absolutely Insane
It's obvious that there's an incredible amount of work put into each Game of Thrones episode, but this behind-the-scenes look at what each moment actually requires is absolutely wild. HBO offers a peek behind the curtain in its new seven-part series, Game Revealed, which shows the making of each episode. In episode one, a number of cool moments are addressed, including Arya's transformation into Walder Frey, the march of the White Walkers, Ed Sheeran's cameo, that hilarious Samwell Tarly montage, and Daenerys Targaryen's arrival in Westeros. Particularly fascinating is the work behind the Dragonstone set, which creator David Benioff called the "best set" they'd ever built. Check out some of the interesting facts from the episode below, then get all the details on season eight.
- The Arya/Walder Frey moment: Maisie Williams wore a full-head prosthetic of actor David Bradley's face, and strategic camera angles helped to sell the moment of her reveal.
- Ed Sheeran's cameo: When Ed saw that he'd be playing a Lannister soldier and Arya would be in the scene, he assumed he'd be killed.
- Cersei's map room: The map of the Seven Kingdoms that Cersei's seen walking on throughout the season is a hand-painted map. Even cooler? The man seen painting the map during the scene with Cersei and Jaime is actually the graphic artist who designed and created the map.
- The Sam Tarly montage: Remember Sam's poop-filled montage at the Citadel? It was only about two minutes long, but it took a whopping three and a half days to shoot.
- Daenerys landing in Westeros: Three different locations were used for the memorable scene.
12 Scenic Stops For Your End-of-Summer California Road Trip
Summer may be coming to an end, but there's still plenty of time to hit the road on a scenic road trip along the California coast. And while recent landslides have left some parts of Highway 1 completely impassible without a few detours (particularly around Big Sur, arguably the most scenic part), there's no shortage of other Instagram-worthy sights to see along the coast. Here are 12 destinations while driving from San Diego to San Francisco to make sure you get plenty of FOMO-inducing shots on your California road trip.
Drew and Jonathan Scott Reveal the Absolute Biggest Mistakes They've Made in the Past
We all know and love Drew and Jonathan Scott for their hilarious dynamic and their love for all things HGTV, but the brothers recently opened up about their financial struggles in the past, and it's something the Property Brothers rarely talk about. In a new interview with People, Drew and Jonathan discuss their new memoir, It Takes Two: Our Story, and the hardships they faced before becoming the real estate and design gurus they are today.
In an exclusive video interview with the magazine, Jonathan talks about how his plans to become a popular magician and tour like David Copperfield completely disappeared when he was robbed and his custom trailer filled with props was stolen. He was left with so much debt that he filed for bankruptcy.
"I will admit today, I think it was the worst mistake, financially, of my life because I think that I really could've held out and over maybe five or six years paid that off," Jonathan shared. "But I was extremely depressed and financial problems are one of the biggest causes of depression."
After filing for bankruptcy, the brothers started thinking more seriously about doing real estate as more than a part-time gig, but it was after that "embarrassing" moment that Jonathan learned a life lesson.
"It was really a game changer for us because we realized how any reckless decision you make, or leaving yourself vulnerable, there are people out there who will take advantage of you," he said in the video.
While Jonathan was pursuing his career as a magician and the brothers were still doing real estate on the side, Drew was missing his passion for acting.
"I went to Vancouver to pursue that, and I was taking acting courses, networking and doing all the things I had to do to make sure that I was being seen," Drew shared, adding that he had racked up $100K in debt during this time. "In the end, that experience was really important because it created the buzz for our first auditions, which got us on TV and made it worth it."
While Drew and Jonathan have undoubtedly had their fair share of setbacks along their journey to stardom, they've learned so much, not only about real estate and design, but about finances.
"Now we've put due diligence in and strengthened our financial situation," Jonathan said.
These two have created an empire for themselves and have a lot to be excited about in the future. While we're not sure which brother is appearing on Dancing With the Stars this upcoming season, Drew is planning a wedding with his fiancée, Linda Phan, and Jonathan is living with his girlfriend, Jacinta Kuznetsov. We can't wait to see what the future has in store for the Scott brothers!
Who's Still on Arya's Kill List on Game of Thrones?
Arya Stark is back in Winterfell on Game of Thrones, and she's in full revenge mode (with a side of some family bonding). Now that she's picked up a few tricks from the time she spent at the House of Black and White, she's using them to avenge her family, and she even dispatches of one of the most devious characters in the season finale - no tricks necessary. Arya had been merrily on her way to kill the queen, but decides to stop over at Winterfell right quick. When she finally reunites with her family, she also mentions the kill list - which Sansa initially laughs at, but then realizes it's a legit thing when Three-Eyed-Raven Bran mentions it too.
Arya's Kill List, if you don't remember, is the list of people she started reciting a few seasons ago after losing almost her entire family at the hands of various villains. There were 11 names on the list originally, which the fiercest Stark girl has not forgotten (except to eliminate one). If you've forgotten who's on it and what they did, we're reminding you of that and whether they're still alive (fun fact: the list is slightly different in the book than on the TV show).
Outlander: All the Season 3 Details You Could Ever Want (Including the Premiere Date!)
The season two finale of Outlander ends with a devastating mix of hope and heartbreak, which makes the prospect of waiting quite a while for season three all the more painful. Although not too many definitive facts about next season have been released yet, we're confident that it will be 1.) a roller coaster ride of emotions, and 2.) provide us with plenty more hot scenes between Jamie and Claire. On top of those certainties, we've rounded up every tidbit of information concerning the upcoming season that we could get our hands on in order to ease the Droughtlander currently plaguing us all (which now includes the premiere date!).
George and Amal Look So in Love During Their First Public Appearance Since Becoming Parents
George and Amal Clooney were the picture of love when they stepped out at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday. Clad in a black tux, George was ever the gentleman as he opened the car door for Amal and led the way for her on the red carpet. To make matters even cuter, the couple exchanged a series of loving looks and held hands as they made their way inside. While the event marked the debut of George's latest film, Suburbicon, it also doubled as the couple's first public appearance since welcoming their twins, Alexander and Ella, back in June.
Earlier this week, George opened up about how his life has changed since their arrival, telling the Associated Press, "Right now my job is changing diapers and walking them around a little bit. I really didn't think at 56 that I would be the parent of twins. Don't make plans. You always have to just enjoy the ride. Suddenly, you're responsible for other people, which is terrifying."
Katie Has Lost 220 Pounds So Far Without Calorie Counting or a Gym
After a weight-related medical scare, Katie Patterson's mother told her enough was enough and recommended a program called Take Shape For Life. At 409 pounds, she knew she had to do something to change her life, and her weight-loss journey began.
Katie: Before
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Katie Patterson: I had a wake-up call two years ago! I was visiting my parents' house with my husband and kids for Thanksgiving. That morning I was sleeping in a chair, sitting up, and stopped breathing from having sleep apnea. My parents woke me up and said, "that's enough, you have to change your life and you need to lose weight!" As the unplanned intervention unfolded, my mom then began to tell me about Take Shape For Life and how she had already lost 30 pounds since July. She told me how she felt so much better, so I agreed to do it, but I didn't know how I could afford to start the program when we were in the middle of a financial crisis. My mom wouldn't let it go, and I couldn't either, because she kept losing weight and feeling even better. Thank goodness, I eventually was able to start.
PS: What drew you to Take Shape For Life specifically?
KP: My mom inspired me with her story. Even though I had never heard of TSFL before, my mom insisted I do it.
"I would knock off items at the store with my stomach and people would stand there and look at me."
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
KP: I don't work out at a gym, but I get 10,000 steps though my busy daily routine. My exercise of walking is always different and exciting with my kids, husband, and job.
Katie: After
PS: How much weight have you lost?
KP: As of today, I have lost 220 pounds and over 12 feet of fat all over my body! I'm still going! I want to be in the healthy range of the BMI chart.
Katie: Before
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
KP: Wow! Where do I start? I went from dependent on my husband to take a shower, dress, cook dinner, and much of the care of our children, because my body was in so much pain all the time, I wasn't able to walk a half a mile to the bus stop to get my kids without being out of breath and sweating like crazy. I would knock off items at the store with my stomach and people would stand there and look at me as I attempted to bend over and pick up the items, or I would kick them under something to hide it so I wouldn't have the embarrassment of having to pick it up. I not only couldn't fit in my seat belt, I couldn't fit in our car! I had to always drive our large SUV. Even then, my stomach was tight against the steering wheel, causing rub burns. I fell asleep throughout my day from exhaustion, even while helping my kids with their homework.
So you ask what was the first big difference? Where do I start? I couldn't possibly limit it to one. But it started with the pain going away and the confidence growing.
"All you have to do is say yes to health and do your best."
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
KP: I track my weight loss by measuring myself every month and weighing myself daily. I write my measurements and weight in my food journal every month. For accountability, I talk with my health coach, Pam Carter, regularly and share with our support community.
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
KP: I am currently on the Take Shape For Life Optimal Weight 5 and 1 Plan TM. It consists of eating five healthy fuelings throughout the day ["fuelings" are snacks from the Optavia brand that Take Shape For Life offers as part of the program], along with one healthy meal of lean protein and low-carb vegetables that I make on my own. This has taught me how to prepare healthy meals with healthy portion sizes. I love that I don't need to count calories.
Katie: After
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
KP: I don't go shopping for a full month of food anymore. I shop weekly, so I don't have a lot of food in my fridge. A majority of my food is provided through TSFL, while I'm doing the weight-loss phase of the program. Jalapeños, mushrooms, broccoli, and other salad fixings are my favorite vegetables. Chicken and occasional steak are my favorite lean proteins.
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
KP: I connect with my health coach and my community of friends that might know what is a great healthy idea when I plan a meal out at a new place. I usually stick with salads with dressing on the side; it's usually the safest meal to choose when dining out.
"I am ALIVE again, and I want to be the best me I can be as a healthy mom, wife, and friend."
PS: Do you use a fitness tracker?
KP: I sometimes use an iPod fitness tracker, but now I am on a routine and know what my usual day-to-day steps are.
PS: What role did TSFL play in your success?
KP: Take Shape For Life, my health coach, Habits of Health home study, the healthy fuelings, and the TSFL community continue to provide me with the tools and support needed for long-term success. Before TSFL, I was so fearful, angry, scared, alone, in denial, and sick, yet longing for something more. Now I have a wonderful community of like-minded, fun, loving, supportive friendships, who are happy and uplifting, as we fellowship together on our shared health journeys. They are always there for me when I need support, when I struggle, and when I share and celebrate my scale and "NSV" (nonscale victories). TSFL will always hold a special place in my heart and a big, huge part in my health journey. I wouldn't be where I am today if I didn't have these new habits of health and the tools I use every day to get healthier and healthier as I get to my optimal well-being! Matter of fact, I decided to "pay it forward" and become a health coach because I want to make difference in other people's lives, like my coach has done in life.
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
KP: This is the hardest journey I have ever been on, but the most rewarding! If you are thinking about starting your own health journey, stick to it. I tell myself every week, even every day, do your best today; it will pay off tomorrow. All you have to do is say yes to health and do your best. I've learned so much about healthy habits and about myself. My health coach reminds me regularly, when I am struggling, "You haven't come this far just to come this far. You can do it." She continues to have me ask myself, "What do you want to accomplish most and why?" and "What will your life look like when you get to your healthy BMI goal and beyond?"
Holy Sh*t, This Look at How Game of Thrones Is Made Is Absolutely Insane
It's obvious that there's an incredible amount of work put into each Game of Thrones episode, but this behind-the-scenes look at what each moment actually requires is absolutely wild. HBO offers a peek behind the curtain in its new seven-part series, Game Revealed, which shows the making of each episode. In episode one, a number of cool moments are addressed, including Arya's transformation into Walder Frey, the march of the White Walkers, Ed Sheeran's cameo, that hilarious Samwell Tarly montage, and Daenerys Targaryen's arrival in Westeros. Particularly fascinating is the work behind the Dragonstone set, which creator David Benioff called the "best set" they'd ever built. Check out some of the interesting facts from the episode below, then get all the details on season eight.
- The Arya/Walder Frey moment: Maisie Williams wore a full-head prosthetic of actor David Bradley's face, and strategic camera angles helped to sell the moment of her reveal.
- Ed Sheeran's cameo: When Ed saw that he'd be playing a Lannister soldier and Arya would be in the scene, he assumed he'd be killed.
- Cersei's map room: The map of the Seven Kingdoms that Cersei's seen walking on throughout the season is a hand-painted map. Even cooler? The man seen painting the map during the scene with Cersei and Jaime is actually the graphic artist who designed and created the map.
- The Sam Tarly montage: Remember Sam's poop-filled montage at the Citadel? It was only about two minutes long, but it took a whopping three and a half days to shoot.
- Daenerys landing in Westeros: Three different locations were used for the memorable scene.
Outlander: All the Season 3 Details You Could Ever Want (Including the Premiere Date!)
The season two finale of Outlander ends with a devastating mix of hope and heartbreak, which makes the prospect of waiting quite a while for season three all the more painful. Although not too many definitive facts about next season have been released yet, we're confident that it will be 1.) a roller coaster ride of emotions, and 2.) provide us with plenty more hot scenes between Jamie and Claire. On top of those certainties, we've rounded up every tidbit of information concerning the upcoming season that we could get our hands on in order to ease the Droughtlander currently plaguing us all (which now includes the premiere date!).
This Was by Far the Best Thing I Did on My Maui Vacation
If you're planning a trip to Maui, chances are you're already a little bit familiar with Haleakala National Park. Rising over 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakala is the highest peak on the island. It's remote and otherworldly, far away from noise and light from the surrounding area. Given all of this, it should come as no surprise that it's a major tourist destination, especially for seeing the sunrise.
There is, of course, one small catch . . . given Haleakala's location and windy drive, you'll have to start your journey to the summit around 3 a.m., which is exactly why so many decide to skip out on this spectacle altogether. Let's be real: people don't come to Maui to wake up early - waking up early is the exact opposite of living on island time! But I urge you to do it. Just set the alarm and get in your car in the pitch black and make the drive; you will not be disappointed.
My partner and I were almost those people that skipped Haleakala. It wasn't until our flight to Maui that we decided to make the early morning trek. Even now it's hard to convey the pure majesty of a sunrise on Haleakala. Mark, my partner, is an avid rock climber and has seen hundreds of sunrises on peaks around the world. As the sun started coming up through the clouds that morning, he was left speechless. Later that day, he would share with me that this was the most beautiful sunrise of his life. From a man that spends his life climbing mountains, I took that to be a pretty impressive statement.
When you arrive, it's cold and dark and hard to see or get a sense of your surroundings. But as the sun starts to peek out, the clouds come into view and you can start to see outlines of Haleakala's deep valley below and rough volcanic rock. As this happens, a park ranger performs an ancient mele oli (chant) that was once sung by ancient Hawaiian priests hundreds of years earlier. It's an emotional moment to hear nothing but the sounds of this beautiful song while the sun reveals itself over a bed of billowy clouds. It's not very often that a large group of people are moved into silence because of beauty . . . this is one of those moments. I am not being dramatic when I say this sunrise will change your life. Thinking back on it now, I can't believe we almost skipped this.
On the drive back down, definitely reward yourself by stopping at Kula Lodge. The restaurant opens at 7 a.m. every day, which is right about the time you'll get there once you leave the summit. The restaurant is situated in the mountains and has incredible views of the western side of the island. It also has the most amazing macadamia nut pancakes (with coconut syrup!) I have had in my life.
Basic Tips Before Going
- You need a permit to enter the park: To limit the size of the crowd, the national park service (NPS) now requires a reservation for each car that enters the park. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance and cost $2. If you do not have a reservation, it's very likely you will be turned away; we saw this happen to another party on our drive up. In addition to the reservation, you will also need to pay for an entrance fee of $25 per car at the time you enter the park. However, if you have an Annual National Parks Pass (like we did), the $25 fee is waived. You can opt out of driving yourself and pay for a tour, but I recommend driving. It's less hectic than dealing with a large group and you have much more control of what time you want to hit the road.
- It's freezing up there, so dress accordingly: The summit of Haleakala is 10,023 feet above sea level and the sun has yet to come out - it's going to be cold. Do not be one of those tourists that shows up in board shorts and a tank top; you will freeze. Before dawn, expect temps to be around 30 degrees Fahrenheit. I felt comfortable wearing a beanie, gloves, jeans, and several wool base layers under a jacket. My partner just opted to pack his puffy down jacket.
- Find a place away from the crowds: While there are two main viewing areas, there are several short trails that will take you to areas a little less populated to watch the sunrise. We chose the Pa Kaoao Trail (a .6-mile paved road), which got us a little above the main crowds and felt even more isolated since there were maybe only 10 other people up there. Do bring a headlamp or flashlight if you plan to wander off from the main viewing areas.
- Check the time: Depending on where you are staying on the island, the drive to the summit will take you two to three hours. Be sure to check what time the sun will be rising when you are there. The last thing you want is to miss it because you were late!
55+ Memes You'll Only Relate to If You're Latinx
While people love to generalize and assume all Latinx dress, act, eat, and talk the same, we all know that's not true. But we also can't deny that there are customs that tie us together, and those are the ones that when spotted in meme form, you immediately share.
Those humorous moments (i.e., the fact that Vicks VapoRub reigns supreme in most households) are the ones you want to spread like wildfire while you giggle, even tapping the people next to you IRL and showing them your phone for a good laugh. We've rounded more than 50 of those memes here - get ready to flood your friends' feeds.
- Additional reporting by Alessandra Foresto
27 Game of Thrones Season 8 Theories to Read Until the Show Returns
The following contains spoilers for Game of Thrones season seven.
Game of Thrones season seven is officially finished, and while the season left us with a lot of definitive answers about the series - like the truth about Jon Snow's claim to the Iron Throne - there are still a helluva lot of questions left to answer. Based on how the season ended, we've got quite a few theories about how the show's final installment will play out when it returns to air. We're talking deaths! Love stories! Babies! Revenge! The eighth and last season is going to be more fiery than "dracarys."
Read on for our predictions (and hopes) for next season. There will be prophecies fulfilled, hearts broken, and kill lists to complete . . . but, most importantly, Winter has come to Westeros, and the Night King isn't slowing down for anybody.
5 Surprising Secrets From Your Favorite Restaurants, Revealed by Employees
We've done a little digging to figure out the answers to some of the most pressing questions about your favorite chain restaurants. Whether the information came straight from restaurant spokespeople who spoke to POPSUGAR or from Reddit AMA ("Ask Me Anything") online threads from employees who shared their insider knowledge, these fun facts will enlighten you about all things Pizza Hut, Olive Garden, and more. For example, have you ever wondered about Olive Garden's so-called culinary institute in Italy or the freshness of the wings from Buffalo Wild Wings? Read on for five burning restaurant-related questions and their answers.
I Went on a Bus Tour of Europe, and This Is What I Learned
As an introverted budget traveler with a low tolerance for annoying people and a long history of independence, a 10-day bus tour through Europe did not immediately scream my name. But who would I be if I were to turn down a free trip? Yes, I won a free Euro trip after nominating my friend who had never traveled and writing a compelling short story about why it would be incredible for us to be able to go on an adventure together. To my surprise we won, and a couple of months later we were swept off to Europe on a very cliché whirlwind tour.
My travel partner, who is extremely extroverted and had never been out of the country, was incredibly excited to get a chance to see the world in this way. For someone with little experience away from home, having a fully guided tour with everything set up (from hotels to meals to transportation) was perfect for her. I, on the other hand, was starting to sweat. As a shy person who prefers to travel solo or with a tiny group, I was worried about how I might handle being given an itinerary rather than getting to plan one out myself. I was also not super excited about the fact I'd be stuck with a group of 35 people I'd never met.
But I wanted to make the most of getting gifted this experience, and we set off on our journey. Things weren't exactly off to the best start. My friend's luggage never made it to London, so that was a huge mood killer for the both of us. Our jet lag also knocked us out, which meant missing out on our only day in London. That evening, we met up with our group for the orientation to get acquainted with our tour manager and how things would work for the duration of the trip. I was already getting anxiety at being told where to be and when since I like to be a free spirit with no restrictions when on the road.
The next morning, we woke up at 5 a.m. to get ready to board the bus to our first destination of Amsterdam. Our manager got us all in the mood to travel by playing what he called our theme music for the entire trip. "Lion in the Morning Sun" by Will and the People came to haunt me for the entire 10 days, as each morning on the bus we were treated to this upbeat tune. And while it did lift the spirits, I was wondering if our guide knew any other songs and if it was the only one on his iPod.
As we neared the end of the journey, we all felt that we bonded in a unique way.
As we drove along, we played a speed-dating game as we moved around the bus getting to know one another. So many nationalities were represented. We had South Africans, Australians, Americans, Canadians, and even European expats who were living elsewhere and wanted to come back to their home continent for a trip. As I started to meet more and more folks, I began to soften my attitude toward this manufactured journey and figured that I should relax a bit and be open to an experience that would allow me not only to travel but also to make new friends from all over the world.
Being in close quarters with these people turned out to be incredibly wonderful. Each personality lent itself to a different way of exploring. When I wanted to go out clubbing at night, there were people for that. If I just wanted to sit and enjoy the scenery, there was a solo traveler who was very happy to relax with me as my friend went off with other tourmates. With each pit stop at a petrol station to take a break, grab some food, and have a quick chat with someone new from the journey, I was overjoyed to get to know these people.
The variety of cities we saw was incredible for the 10-day period, although because of the fast-paced nature of the trip, it only ever ended up being about a day in each location. One day in Venice is not nearly enough to take in all its beauty. We had a stop in a small town in Germany that felt unnecessary when there are so many other places in the country that would be more intriguing to see on a European tour. It felt a bit odd to have things out of my control, like where we ate, slept, and were entertained, but it had to be that way because there wasn't enough time to plan anything separate for ourselves.
And, of course, with a group of people like this, there will be drama and odd moments. We had a few people disappear overnight and then were told they had to leave the tour due to injuries or family emergencies. One girl hooked up with our tour manager and was left at the end with a broken heart. Even my friend started to get on my nerves a bit after spending 10 days in a row together. A group of us spent an extraordinary amount on a taxi to go out clubbing at Kultfabrik Munich (suggested to us by our guide), and when we arrived it was a ghost town with only one bar open and a bunch of creepy guys ready to pounce on the few women gullible enough to come all the way out there.
But as we neared the end of the journey, we all felt that we bonded in a unique way. We accepted Facebook friend requests, tagged one another in our photos, kept in touch through IM, and could fondly recall this week and a half that we spent together. While it may not have been my main method of transportation or how I would choose to travel, it gave me a chance to see new parts of Europe that I hadn't yet been to at that point and a nostalgic feeling of summer camp that I didn't even know I had been missing from my childhood.
A bus tour is a very specific way to travel and definitely not for everyone. If you're a person who has a lot of money saved up and likes to have everything set up for you in advance so you don't have to worry about anything, then going through a tour company might be a great option for you. However, if you're good at planning, you can make a trip for yourself that is not only way less expensive, but also to your own liking and style.
Kat Von D's House Is Creepier Than Halloween - and That's the Way She Likes It
Kat Von D is known for her unique sense of style, from her dark fashion sense to her must-have makeup palettes to her masterful freehand tattoos, and her interior design is no exception. The LA Ink star purchased a sprawling Victorian last year. She's wasted no time bringing it back to its previous glory and, in the process, added oodles of gothic furniture and eerie macabre accents. We don't know whether to applaud or hide. See for yourself ahead.
The Mysterious Details of Natalie Wood's Death Will Make You Angry 35 Years Later
Natalie Wood was one of the brightest Hollywood stars in the '70s. She solidified herself as a serious actress with appearances in movies like West Side Story and Rebel Without a Cause, but her life was tragically cut short when she mysteriously drowned while boating with her husband, Robert Wagner, at age 43 on Nov. 28, 1981. The couple had gone sailing for the weekend around Catalina Island on their 60-foot yacht, Splendour, with Natalie's Brainstorm costar Christopher Walken and captain Dennis Davern. Authorities found Natalie's body one mile south of the Splendour yacht, off an isolated cove called Blue Cavern Point. She was wearing a flannel nightgown, wool socks, and a down-filled jacket.
After an autopsy was conducted, authorities revealed that Natalie's arms had been covered in bruises, a scratch was found on her neck, and she had abrasions on her face. They also believed that all of those injuries had occurred prior to her drowning. Robert told the police that Natalie had gone to bed before him and he didn't notice she was missing until he went to their bedroom sometime after midnight and noticed she wasn't there. Because they found alcohol and two types of medication in her system, authorities ruled her cause of death as an "accidental drowning."
The case was later reopened in November 2011 after Dennis alleged that Robert was responsible for Natalie's death and revealed that he "made mistakes by not telling the honest truth in a police report." In an interview with the Today show, Dennis said that Robert and Natalie had gotten into a fight on the night of her death and that Robert and he had agreed on what they would tell police. Following multiple investigations, LA's chief medical examiner changed Natalie's cause of death to "drowning and other undetermined factors" nine months later. While Robert was never found guilty, he did admit that he and Natalie fought the night that she died in his 2008 memoir. "Nobody knows," he wrote. "There are only two possibilities; either she was trying to get away from the argument, or she was trying to tie the dinghy. But the bottom line is that nobody knows exactly what happened."
Christopher also spoke out about the case in November 2011, telling Playboy magazine, "What happened that night only she knows, because she was alone. She had gone to bed before us, and her room was at the back. A dinghy was bouncing against the side of the boat, and I think she went out to move it. There was a ski ramp that was partially in the water. It was slippery - I had walked on it myself. She had told me she couldn't swim. In fact, they had to cut a swimming scene from [Brainstorm]. She was probably half asleep, and she was wearing a coat." Natalie left two daughters behind, Natasha and Courtney, whom she shared with Robert, and was buried on Dec. 2, 1981, at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in LA.
9 Ways to Boost Your Child's Confidence
No parent wants to see her child suffer from low self-esteem, but unfortunately we can't always get what we want. Too many children today are lacking in the confidence department, and as parents, it's our job to fill that void. So whether you have a son or daughter, toddler or teen, here are some helpful ways to raise your child's confidence (and keep it high).
Holy Sh*t, This Weight Watchers-Friendly Cookie Dough Is Also Packed With Protein
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: the best part about Weight Watchers is that you don't have to cut out any of the food you love. One of my absolute favorite treats is cookie dough. Sure, I like the actual cookies, but cookie dough is even better. But when it comes to having cookie dough while on Weight Watchers, I can only eat a very, very small amount before the SmartPoints add up.
And then I found Smart Choice Protein on Instagram. The gluten-free cookie dough is not only pretty low in calories, but it's also jam-packed with protein. Each two-tablespoon serving has just 130 calories and seven grams of protein. That rounds out to about four SmartPoints per serving, which is far less than if you ate a couple of conventional cookies or cookie dough.
The dough's base ingredient is peanut butter, which is where a lot of the protein comes from, before being mixed with protein powder and oat flower (to keep it gluten-free). The doughs are sweetened with both real sugar and stevia, and even though stevia is at the bottom of the ingredients list, you can still tell it's there. For someone who is used to sugar substitutes, though, it doesn't bother me. Other than the gluten-free flour and the addition of protein powder, the ingredients list is pretty standard for a cookie dough.
But how do they actually taste, you ask? Well, each jar is supposed to be nine servings, and I might have been a bit overzealous with my tasting adventure because my jar feels like it's about three servings. The texture is slightly different from conventional dough, thanks to the peanut butter and oat flour, and it's a little greasier than I'm used to, but the flavors are great. I tried PB Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter Cup, and PB Snickerdoodle Chip, and the peanut butter flavor really shines through.
Each jar is $13, plus shipping, and trust me when I say it's well worth the price. Not only is it great for Weight Watchers clients, but also for anyone who wants a decadent treat that has some added protein. Or, you know what? It's good for just anyone who wants some extra cookie dough in their life . . . healthy or not.
41 Photos of Shakira and Gerard Piqué Proving They Are a Match Made in Heaven
Shakira and Gerard Piqué were destined to be together. The two are head over heels for each other, but that's not all. The couple shares a birthday 10 years apart, have two little ones, and are extraordinarily charitable people, making them a match made in heaven.
Gerard is a hottie with a body, and don't get me started on Shakira. Just take a moment to think about her belly dancing skills. We'll wait! Back? OK, time to look at the best photos of the hot couple. Keep scrolling to see these two lovebirds in action.
7 Actors Who Were Almost in Buffy the Vampire Slayer
No matter how much of a die-hard fan you think you are of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, there's always new interesting facts to discover about the show as the years go by. Recently, I found out that Katie Holmes was initially offered the role as Buffy Summers and, yes, my mind was completely blown. (No one could have played that part better than Sarah Michelle Gellar.) Read on to see six other jaw-dropping casting facts about the series ahead.
27 Game of Thrones Season 8 Theories to Read Until the Show Returns
The following contains spoilers for Game of Thrones season seven.
Game of Thrones season seven is officially finished, and while the season left us with a lot of definitive answers about the series - like the truth about Jon Snow's claim to the Iron Throne - there are still a helluva lot of questions left to answer. Based on how the season ended, we've got quite a few theories about how the show's final installment will play out when it returns to air. We're talking deaths! Love stories! Babies! Revenge! The eighth and last season is going to be more fiery than "dracarys."
Read on for our predictions (and hopes) for next season. There will be prophecies fulfilled, hearts broken, and kill lists to complete . . . but, most importantly, Winter has come to Westeros, and the Night King isn't slowing down for anybody.
5 Ways to Tone Your Tummy
There are certain spots where fat likes to hang around. For some, extra padding accumulates in the torso, resulting in a layer of softness above the waistline. Keep reading to find out how to help yours disappear.
This Secluded Campsite in Pennsylvania Harbors Some of the World's Best Stargazing
Hawaii and the Australian Outback are often touted as the world's top stargazing spots. But if you're coming from the continental US, these popular travel destinations can be quite the trek to catch a glimpse of the twinkling night sky. So if you're pining for a short getaway filled with constellations and shooting stars, there's a remote 82-acre campground in Pennsylvania that harbors some of the best stargazing on the planet.
Cherry Springs State Park is basically a dark spot on the map, attracting the likes of astronomers from across the globe for its prime star viewing. And since it's not high on the radar of most tourists, you won't be fighting off crowds for a good ground spot to marvel at the sky. So grab all your camping gear, and get ready for a road trip to a beautiful, secluded part of Pennsylvania!
dimanche 3 septembre 2017
I Tried All 32 Flavors of GT's Kombucha, and These Are the Absolute Best
While there are many excellent kombucha brands on the market, GT's Kombucha is what you'll most often find in my fridge. In part because it is widely available - I can even pick up a bottle at Duane Reade - but also because the brand offers up a diverse roster of exciting, bold flavors I love. As both a curious customer and a food writer, I recently made it my mission to try the entire GT's roster: a whopping 32 varieties (excluding the chia drinks and kefir).
A quick note on GT's different lines of kombucha before we begin: Classic Kombucha and Classic Synergy contain between .25 and 1.0 percent alcohol, and they are only available to customers 21 and over, while Enlightened Kombucha and Enlightened Synergy are considered alcohol-free with less than .5 percent alcohol. Synergy is the brand's designation for flavors with a larger percentage of fruit juice, and thus a sweeter, smoother finish. Synergy is a great place to start if you're new to the fizzy, probiotic-rich functional beverage. These nine are my absolute favorites.
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