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 3 octobre 2018
Netflix's Gory New Horror Movie Is About an Orphanage, and It Looks Scary as Hell
Netflix knows how to do the Halloween season right. That much is abundantly clear based on another new horror offering called Malevolent. The film drops on Oct. 5, but we're lucky enough to catch this chilling preview just ahead of the launch. The story follows a group of friends who have a fake paranormal investigative business. Unfortunately for them, their next cast - it's at a former orphanage that was once plagued by a string of murders - has some very real ghosts that may have them out of their league. Based on the chilling visuals and blunt violence of the trailer alone, this one's going to be pretty intense.
Netflix's original horror movie offerings, of course, are just the tip of the iceberg. In addition to chillers like the horrifying Gerald's Game and The Ritual's f*cked-up terror, the streaming platform continues to delight with a staggering selection of horror films of original programming designed to spook and unsettle. Looks like we'll have to add Malevolent to the top of our list.
55 Pics That Prove Dakota Johnson Is Just as Sexy as Her Fifty Shades Character
There's no denying that Dakota Johnson is one of the hottest actresses around. Not only has she starred in one of the sexiest movie franchises of all time, but she also rocked some seriously steamy looks both on and off the red carpet. Whether she's wearing a designer gown at a movie premiere or relaxing on the beach in a sexy bathing suit, the Fifty Shades of Grey actress has a way of looking smoking hot no matter what she's doing. Need proof? Scroll through to see 55 of Dakota's sexiest moments from over the years, all the way up to the release of her new film, Bad Times at the El Royale.
9 Sweet Things Busy Philipps and Michelle Williams Have Said About Their Friendship
Busy Philipps and Michelle Williams are those best friends that everyone aspires to have. They have nothing but love and support for each other - they always take each other as dates to red carpet events and are quick to defend and praise the other when the opportunity arises.
They met back when they both were on Dawson's Creek and fell into a seamless friendship immediately. They've been there for each other for the good, the bad, and the ugly ever since, and we love getting glimpses into their friendship whenever they gush about each other. Keep reading for some of their sweetest words about each other and their friendship.
Kate Middleton Just Debuted a Shorter, No-Fuss Haircut After Maternity Leave
Kate Middleton is back from maternity leave with a fresh haircut. On Oct. 2, the Duchess of Cambridge made her first official appearance following the birth of Prince Louis just over five months ago. While visiting the Sayers Croft Forest School and Wildlife Garden in London, Middleton debuted a slightly shorter haircut with lots of layers.
One of the last times Middleton was spotted out was at Wimbledon in July. At the time, her hair was longer and fuller at the bottom, contrasting her new lightened-up look, which is fitting for a busy mom of three little ones. Middleton has become quite known for her voluminous mane, and the world was stunned when she was appeared with impeccable hair mere hours after giving birth. The life of a royal, eh?
Customers Can't Say Enough Good Things About These 9 Fall Moisturizers
When we're shopping for beauty products online, we rely so much on customer reviews to give us an understanding of how the item feels, smells, and works on our skin type. Moisturizer is one of the holy-grail skincare products; no one should ever go without it. These nine moisturizers have the highest-rated reviews on Nordstrom, and the list includes both classic favorites and under-the-radar picks your skin will love.
Attention Makeup Enthusiasts: It's Time For Organizers
As a self-confessed product hoarder, I know how quickly a makeup collection can get out of hand. That's why I rely so heavily on makeup organizers; they keep my essentials put together, plus they make my bathroom look much better. These are our favorite makeup organizers, whether you're working with a whole collection or just a few necessities. The best part is all of these storage systems are under $30.
Iggy Azalea Looks Completely Different Without Her Blond Hair
Iggy Azalea may be known for her blond hair, but now she's trying out something completely different. The rapper is wearing a cotton-candy pink hue ahead of her Bad Girls Tour, and posted it to Instagram sans caption.
Fans are wondering if this new hue is a wig or if the iconic blonde really dyed her hair a bubble gum shade. It's possible the new look is a part of a new music video or album cover, but either way, fans can't wait to find out. For now, we'll just have to admire this one photo of her rosy lob and use it as inspiration for our next salon visit.
Drop Your Wand, Grab Your Wallet - We Found 6 Harry Potter Gifts For Beauty-Lovers
Harry Potter fans, prepare to shout, "Gulpin' gargoyles!" There are all sorts of cool beauty products on the internet, but we curated a list of the coolest products that totally belong at Hogwarts. Check out our favorite picks and give them to your BFF . . . or yourself.
13 Editor-Approved Liquid Lipsticks You Need For Fall
The fastest way to transform your beauty look from Summer to Fall is by swiping on a liquid lipstick. Many formulas have excellent staying power and boldly pop on your pout. Whether you're looking for a warm nude or a vampy burgundy, we rounded up our favorite options for you to choose from. Not only will these lipsticks make a statement, but they will take your autumnal look to the next level. Stock up on a few right now.
The Easy Mistake That's Ruining Your At-Home Gel Manicure
So you've mastered the at-home manicure. You know how to perfectly shape your own nails, buff them to perfection, and glide on that polish like a boss. You decide to take the next step: gel. This is where things get tricky.
No matter how many times you've observed a nail technician perform the miracle that is a gel polish on your fingers, doing it yourself is no easy feat. The process is more complicated than a regular manicure, leaving room for a lot to go wrong. My first at-home gel experience went surprisingly smoothly, but my second time around? Not so much. Despite following gel protocol to a T, something went so wrong - leaving many air bubbles behind - that I ended up panicking and peeling off the gel three days later. (A huge no-no, as doing so can tear up the surface of your nails.)
Here's what happened and how to avoid it.
Mandy Moore Reveals How This Is Us Completely Changed Her Opinion on Aging
Besides tear-streaked cheeks and the sudden compulsion to hug your nearest family member, there's one more thing you've probably picked up on while watching NBC's megahit This Is Us: the actors get pretty emotional. And sometimes, as Mandy Moore will tell you, that's not easy to work around.
"There's a lot of crying on set," the Garnier brand ambassador, who plays Rebecca Pearson on the show, told POPSUGAR. "It's a good thing that we have a makeup team around to jump in and help clean up my streaky mascara, because there aren't really any setting products that help [against tears]."
The series's glam squad isn't just integral for covering up Moore's cry-face (which she describes as "definitely not cute," and TBH, same) but also for applying her prosthetics whenever she transforms from 25 to 68 - which, ironically, also can't handle the waterworks.
Keep reading to find out how she keeps it together through the tough times, and why time-traveling in front of millions of viewers changed her opinion on aging, ahead. Bring the tissues.
Need Some Outfit Inspiration? Try One of These 17 Cool Fall Jackets
Jackets are our one Fall staple. They complete our outfits and make us look polished, even if we're just rocking basic jeans and a T-shirt. No matter how many jackets you have in your closet, you could always use another. This season, try a mix of trendy pieces like teddy coats and classic staples, aka your go-to leather jacket. Happy shopping!
Nothing Will Excite You Like the Chanel Beach Ball Bag, Except Maybe the PVC Sandals
Oh, Karl! How you do what you do. The mastermind behind Chanel turned the Grand Palais into a beach, sending models down the runway in tweeds that somehow looked proper amongst the sand and lavish sundresses with a retro kick. It was the accessories that stole the show, though. Everyone will be talking about and posting about the Chanel beach ball purse for days, we're calling it now.
But when we do finally arrive at Spring 2019, we bet you'll find most ladies flaunting the PVC sandals with a lucite heel, which come in lovely shades of coral and sky blue. Instead of furry chain-strap bags, the new version comes in a fabric like your big, fluffy bathrobe, and there are quilted clutches that look puffed up like your average pool float.
There are plenty of straw hats and lunchboxes, too, so if you like to keep it classic with a Chanel picnic by the sea, you'll be set. One thing's for sure: next Spring, we are headed to the beach, and Karl has provided us with all the right outfit accoutrements.
We Can't Wait to Recreate These Model Street Style Looks From Fashion Month
Another Fashion Month has come and gone, and while we are still in awe of the dazzling designs that walked the runways in New York, London, Milan, and Paris, we were equally inspired by the ensembles seen on models outside the shows as well. While models off-duty looks always seem to turn heads, their outfits this season definitely upped the fashion ante.
With each stop on the month-long marathon, they showed us cool new styling tricks and supplied us with an endless amount of new outfit ideas that we can't wait to re-create. From Bella Hadid wearing a Fendi blazer as a dress to Sara Sampaio's all-pink ensemble, keep reading to see the most memorable model street style moments from this past Fashion Month.
10 of Meghan Markle's Iconic Fashion Moments to Re-Create For Halloween
Let's face it, 2018 is the year of Meghan Markle. Not only did she marry a real-life prince, but she's also become a bona-fide fashion icon. So it makes sense that the Duchess of Sussex is set to be one of the most popular Halloween costumes of the year. To help you be the most stylish Meghan at your Halloween party, we've rounded up the items you need to give your costume a little "Markle Sparkle."
Of course we'll be breaking down her iconic wedding day look, but if you're afraid you'll get lost in a sea of bateau-neck white gowns and tiaras, we've got plenty of other Meghan-inspired costume ideas for you to choose from as well. The best part? All the items are so stylish, you'll want to wear them after Halloween is over too.
The Comfiest, Coziest Boots For Fall? We've Got You Covered
We love our cozy shearling boots more than anything, but they've traditionally been reserved for grocery store runs or lounging around the house. Well, no more. These nine shearling boots are both comfortable and adorable, just what we need for the Fall season. After you try a pair of these boots, you'll never look back. Just keep reading to shop our picks.
Kate Middleton's Boots Are So Darn Practical, It's No Wonder She's Worn Them For Over a Decade
Kate Middleton has officially returned to her royal duties after being on maternity leave, and her outfit definitely made a statement. While visiting the Sayers Croft Forest School and Wildlife Garden at Paddington Recreation Ground, Kate decided to go for a simple look of a gray sweater styled with a printed blouse underneath.
The Duchess of Cambridge topped her look off with an army green jacket from Fjällräven, her favorite Penelope Chilvers boots, and Zara skinny jeans. Kate has actually had these tassel knee-high boots for over a decade now. Keep reading to look at all angles of her outfit, and buy similar versions of her Fall friendly shoes ahead.
These 6 Reformation Dresses Are Selling Faster Than We Can Type - Get Yours Now
Every time we think our wardrobe is complete, Reformation drops new dresses we can't live without. The sustainable brand is known for its pretty and versatile pieces - and this season is no exception. Whether you're looking for a midi printed dress you can wear to work or a chic velvet maxi for holiday parties, the brand has it all. Ahead, we curated a list of the retailer's six bestselling dresses that customers are obsessing over right now. You won't want to drag your feet, some of these are already sold out but coming back in stock soon. Take a look.
This Fall Marks the Return of This Classic Shoe
This season, we're seeing the return of the knee high boot. The sleek, sophisticated look is being reinvented to make the silhouette more exciting and fashion forward. We've loved the knee high shape for a long time; now it's back with a distinctly 2018 twist, like western-inspired styles and bold snake print. Ahead, check out 12 standout boots we're shopping right now.
Toss Your Sandals Aside - These Are the 55 Shoes You Need For Fall
If you're ready to retire your sandals and shop for Fall's hottest shoes, you've come to the right place. Whether you're on the hunt for everyday booties, flats you can wear to work, or chic over-the-knee boots, we found it all. Ahead, find 55 stylish choices at every price point. Hurry and shop your favorites before your size sells out.
22 Daytime Dresses That Will Dominate Your Fall Wardrobe
Make getting dressed easier than ever this Fall by simply investing in a stylish daytime dress. These versatile pieces will be so easy to layer with everything you already own. Simply pair them with t-shirts, leather jackets, coats, sneakers, boots, and more to achieve your daily look. Need more convincing? We shopped on Amazon and curated a list of surprisingly stylish pieces at every price point, starting at just $20. Don't drag your feet, because these deals will likely sell out. Keep scrolling to shop our favorites.
Princess Eugenie's Engagement Ring Is So Rare, No Other Bride Will Ever Have the Same
When Princess Eugenie got engaged to Jack Brooksbank in January, all eyes were, understandably, on her one-of-a-kind engagement ring. In the couple's first TV interview following the announcement, Jack explained how he "went and found an amazing padparadscha sapphire, but then didn't want to do anything until Eugenie had signed off on it." And amazing, it truly is.
Surrounded by 12 diamonds and set on a yellow gold band, the beautiful center stone really is the star of the show, and it's easy to understand why. Padparadscha sapphires are one of the rarest forms of sapphires, which means no other bride will ever be able to have the same. Derived from an ancient Sanskrit word used to describe the color of a tropical lotus flower, padparadscha sapphires vary in color (going from pink to orange) and can mainly be found in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Madagascar. And while very few people know about them, they are treasured by gemstone connoisseurs.
Of course, Eugenie isn't the only member of the royal family to have been given a very special engagement ring. Kate Middleton was given Princess Diana's 12-carat sapphire and diamond ring (which is valued at a staggering $50,000), while Meghan Markle's stunning ring (which was designed by Prince Harry himself) features a center stone that was sourced in Botswana, as well as two smaller diamonds from Harry's personal collection, given to him by Princess Diana.
Read on to take a closer look at Princess Eugenie's incredibly rare ring, then shop similar styles for yourself.
The Coziest, Most Wearable Trend to Come Out of Fashion Week Is . . . *Drum Roll*
You might already know that there's a grandpa sweater trend running strong (Selena Gomez happens to be quite good at pulling it off), but cardigans with buttons in particular have become prominent this season. On the Spring 2019 runways, the message seemed to be to abandon your pullover for a cardigan, whether tight-fit or oversize, chunky and knitted in one color, or fuzzy with a graphic pattern. And if you like your look in the form of a set - complete with a matching tank or shirt - there are plenty of those to go around, too.
Perhaps it was the catwalk encouraging the street style stars or vice versa, but in between shows, everyone seemed to be up on the cardigan beat, too. Ahead, we're breaking down the styling tips we've got for wearing one and showing you what the Spring 2019 version looks like; but you don't have to wait. This easy-to-pull off sweater trend is happening right now.
Your Ultimate Guide to the Coziest Clothes on the Internet
You may be excited about the pumpkin spice lattes and apple picking that Fall brings, but all we can think about is being cozy. Soft fabrics, fuzzy linings, and comfy silhouettes make the season the best time of the year for being cuddly. If you're in the shopping mood, we rounded up the very best snuggly pieces you need to see - consider this your ultimate guide. Hooray for sweater season!
Kate Middleton Would Choose You: The 23 Spring 2019 Runway Looks We Can See on Her
We bet Kate Middleton's stylist has had her eye on the Spring 2019 runways, ready to update the duchess's wardrobe now that she's back from maternity leave. We dug up some of Kate's old looks for inspiration and matched them with the fresh silhouettes we're spotting on the catwalk. From a couple of new, dreamy white dresses to a tweed Gucci coat dress and floral Alexander McQueen number we can imagine Kate wearing proudly, read on to see which ensembles made us think, "Oh, yes! That's just so Kate!," as we admired them strutting down the catwalk. Then, check out Kate's best outfits of the year so far - in our opinion, anyway.
13 Stores That Will Welcome Your Dog With Open Arms
When Reddit user terriblesubreddit shared a picture of their adorable puppy in a Home Depot cart with the message that the store is totally pet friendly, we got to wondering about what other major retailers are also pet friendly. There are the obvious answers - Petco and PetSmart - but surprisingly, there are several other stores that welcome your pets along with you, provided they are always under your control and as long as you clean up after them should they make any messes.
Here are a few of the retailers we found that allow dogs, but keep in mind it's always wise to call a store before you go to make sure it's OK. We have found that though some store policies allow dogs, specific store managers will not, and though some store policies prohibit dogs, certain store managers welcome them. Always good to err on the side of caution!
- Home Depot
- Lowe's
- Barnes & Noble
- Macy's
- Pottery Barn
- Bass Pro Shops
- Restoration Hardware
- Bloomingdale's
- Anthropologie
- Gap
- Nordstrom
- Lush Cosmetics
- Urban Outfitters
For the most part, these stores (among many smaller, local stores) are said to be dog friendly, but like we said before, we highly recommend calling each establishment first. Rules will also vary based on where you live and how your local culture is. When I lived in a small suburb of San Francisco, everyone took their dogs everywhere - including the grocery store - and it was never an issue. So make some calls, check out some stores, and let us know if there are any major stores we missed!
14 Fall Soups, Because Salads Are So Last Season
Now is the perfect time to cozy up with a bowl of pumpkin soup or, better yet, classic tomato. If those two don't cut it, does butternut squash, beet, or chicken noodle entice your palate? Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a warm way to start your dinner, spoon through our recipes to find a Fall favorite.
- Additional reporting by Emily Bibb
These Fall Festivals Will Give You a Hankering For Hot Cider, Hay Rides, and Chunky Sweaters
Fall is this glorious season where the air is crisp, the sweaters come out, the wine is spiced, and weekends are spent indulging in seasonal sweets like caramel apples and pumpkin pie. It's also one of the best times to visit a festival. With apple and pumpkin season in full swing, Oktoberfest kicking off, and the tail end of wine-making season all converging in Fall, there are so many things to do to get in the mood for snuggle season. And there are some specialty festivals, too, that only come around once a year during the Fall.
Want to know what festivals are happening this year around the country? Grab your comfy boots and your favorite seasonal sweater, because we know where to be when it comes to celebrating the season. Hit them all up before it's time to hibernate for the Winter.
If You're Not Going to Disneyland in the Fall, You're Seriously Missing Out
If you're thinking about planning a trip to Disneyland, make it this Fall. Without a doubt, the Autumn season is the best time to travel to the most magical place on earth. Read on to understand why you should be planning for the coming months and make it your best trip ever!
14 Cute Maternity Essentials From Walmart - Starting at Just $5
There's something to be said about not having to spend a lot on maternity clothes
. It's likely a short period of time in your life, and the thought of spending more money than you need to on a piece you'll only wear for several months just isn't that enticing. We're happy to share that there are plenty of cute everyday options at Walmart for this very need. From your basic tunics to over-the-bump denim, these are our favorite maternity pieces from the retailer.
Gisele Bündchen Admits a Part of Her "Died" When First Becoming a Mom
While promoting her recent book, Lessons: My Path to a Meaningful Life, in an exclusive interview with People, Gisele Bündchen wasn't afraid to speak honestly about her not-so-easy transition to motherhood. And frankly, her candid take is super refreshing.
"When I became a mom, I kind of lost myself. It was like a part of me died," the 38-year-old mom of two admitted. "I'd been this very independent person. It was all about me. But now I had this little being, and I suddenly felt I couldn't do other things and that was very hard for me. All I ever wanted was to be a mom, but when you're actually experiencing that, it's a shock."
Gisele opened up about a classic conundrum most parents face: all-encompassing guilt about leaving their kids at home.
"I had all this horrible, self-imposed guilt. I thought what a terrible mother I was for leaving my child even for like a day," she said, explaining that the stress of bringing them on work trips was also hard to manage. "I was feeling guilty for that too. Like, 'Here we are on a plane and the baby is crying.'"
She also mentioned that after watching the kids for the bulk of the day - from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. - she didn't always have a ton of patience or energy left by the time the sun went down. And obviously, that routine can make navigating the ins and outs of marriage a little trickier.
"You're overwhelmed and tired and then you're not the nicest partner," she said, adding that hurdles like the Deflategate scandal in 2015 and husband Tom Brady's decision not to retire were especially tough. "When someone you love is happy, it makes you happy, or if they're sad it makes you sad. You suffer with them and you have joy with them."
Holy Cuteness! This Mom Made Her Toddler a Porcupine Costume For Less Than $5
Danielle Bevens is no stranger to DIYing her two boys' multiple Halloween costumes every year (yes, multiple), but with her first costume of 2018, a perfect little prickly porcupine, she's possibly outdone herself in the cuteness department. The mom, who shares costume photos of her boys, Noah and Toby, under the hashtag #noahandtobyplaydressup, has made several winners, including an adorable Price Is Right contestant getup and Dobby from Harry Potter, all from scratch and, typically, all for less than $5.
"Every October I do a month of DIY costumes," Danielle told POPSUGAR. "I really wanted to start off with a bang this year! I honestly love being creative so dressing up my kids is so fun for me! To make Toby's porcupine I used poster paper that I cut into spikes and painted brown. I hot-glued them to a brown pillowcase and then safety pinned the pillowcase to the back of a brown onesie just so he could move around and be comfortable, then I used a snow mask and some extra spikes to make his little hat. So cute and so much fun to make!"
Check out the photos of Toby's sweet costume ahead, and get inspired to DIY your child's costume for cheap this year!
These Women Posed With Poetry on Their Bodies to Raise Awareness For Infant Loss
Jessica Zucker, PhD, a psychologist specializing in women's reproductive and maternal mental health, has been committed to raising awareness surrounding miscarriage and stillbirth since she created the #IHadaMiscarriage campaign back in 2014. And because October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, Jessica joined forces with poet and artist Skin on Sundays to spotlight 10 women who have battled infant loss.
In an effort to destigmatize what it's like to lose a pregnancy or have a stillbirth, Jessica focused this year's project on the raw emotional component of the experience. She had women pose with moving poems written on their bodies, and it's visually powerful.
"My ultimate aim is that women feel a sense of comfort and connection upon learning about the #IHadAMiscarriage campaign," Jessica told POPSUGAR. "With the statistics being what they are and the fact that pregnancy/infant loss is not a disease and is therefore not going anywhere, we need a community that accurately reflects back to us the feelings we feel but may be too afraid to say out loud."
"In sharing our stories in this way, we encourage others to do the same."
She emphasized that women need to stop believing there's shame in losing a baby. "I want women to feel, not just intellectually know, they are not alone and that there is absolutely no shame in loss," Jessica said. "My hope is that future generations won't struggle with the silence, stigma, and shame that is currently so prevalent in our society."
"This year I zeroed in on the lack of standardized rites and rituals in our culture surrounding this ubiquitous topic," Jessica said. "We need a framework for grieving and for honoring ourselves and the babies we've lost."
Jessica also explained that we need to discuss pregnancy and infancy loss more. She hopes she can play her part in moving toward a culture of openness. Her images are just one piece. "The photos captured the importance of this by way of expressing on our bodies our reproductive histories. In sharing our stories in this way, we encourage others to do the same."
Scroll ahead to see the women's empowering shots.
18 Creative Costumes For Expectant Mamas
It's time to play dress up with your bump! Halloween may normally be all about the cute kiddo costumes, but pregnant ladies have an awfully fun - and relatively rare - opportunity to dress up their bump.
Whether a mama-to-be is in the market for cute, sexy, comfy, or homemade, there are plenty of options to accessorize that belly. (All that tasty snack food isn't a bad incentive to get out of the house, either.)
Keep reading for a selection of costumes made to fit a fully expanded waistline.
Wanna Be the Coolest Halloween House on the Block? Stop Carving Pumpkins and Do This Instead!
I will fully admit that I am not a fan of Halloween, in general. I've been known to put my Christmas tree up before Thanksgiving and to decorate my house for Easter (who can deny the cuteness of bunnies?!), but Halloween has never really been my thing.
However, I do very much like two things: my two kids and any excuse for a party. The former do not seem to share my disdain for the strange combo of scary and sugarcoated that is Halloween, and their love of the holiday has forced me to also get minimally on board since they became old enough to realize that all those pumpkins on people's porches actually meant something. I, of course, put them in cute costumes, which they wear while walking around our neighborhood asking for candy, which I then attempt to covertly hide so they don't go into sugar comas. Fun, right?
Until last year, I was basically participating in Halloween while still not really enjoying it. And then we moved into a new house, in a neighborhood full of young families who quickly informed me that my home's previous owners were all about Halloween, passing out popcorn, beer, hot chocolate, full-size candy bars, and more than 200 hot dogs every year. Costumes, scary movies, and spiders I might not do, but throwing a party? That I could get on board with.
Costumes, scary movies, and spiders I might not do, but throwing a party? That I could get on board with.
Of course, as the mother of two small children, I've learned to accept my limitations and ask for help. I enlisted a new neighbor friend to do the hot dogs and another to do the popcorn, but the booze and the sweet stuff I was all over. I called in a few friends to let me borrow their Crock-Pots and started stirring up drinks.
For the kids, I whipped up two batches of No Biggie's creamy Crock-Pot hot chocolate. It was gone within the first hour of trick-or-treating, and while I was sad to disappoint many a child who'd heard a rich molten chocolate drink was being served on my front lawn, only to find my stash depleted, my ego was boosted by how big of a hit it was while it lasted. This year, I'm making four batches.
For the parents, I set up a cooler of beer, which no one touched until my trick-or-treating afterparty (more on that later). What did get a big response? My hot apple cider, spiked with salted caramel vodka (find a similar recipe here - I skipped the brown sugar). I filled up disposable, lidded coffee cups with the stuff, and not a single parent turned me down when I asked if they wanted one. Many came back for more.
Since Halloween was unseasonably warm last year, I set up a folding table on my front lawn and served everything there, next to my bowl of snack-size candy bars. I am a firm believer that three small candy bars is way more fun than one full-size one . . . plus, did I mention I was giving out hot chocolate and booze?!
Once it got dark, my neighbors brought over their leftover popcorn and hot dogs and we had a little afterparty, dipping into that stash of beer and giving the kids flashlights to play tag and tell ghost stories with. It was a great party and a perfect night, even if it is my least favorite holiday. I might not be a Halloween person, but being the Halloween party house? That I kind of love.
What It's Like When Your Grandparents Don't Care About You
Oftentimes, when you hear a grandparent discussing their grandchildren, they'll have the biggest smile on their faces. And if that grandparent happens to be your own parent, you'll probably also get pieces of advice (some wanted and some unwanted) from when they raised you. They were your parent and then your friend, and now they get to do it all over again with the new generation of your family.
But these beautiful thoughts about what it means to be a parent and grandparent aren't always the reality. I recently spoke with a woman who proudly exclaimed that her son had just turned 18, which meant her job was "finally DONE" (the emphasis on the word done was hers). She felt that she has done her job as a mother and quickly gave her son the option to either move out or start paying rent, because, "Hey! He's an adult now, and it's time to finally pay up!" My heart sank for her son. What kind of a mother would be so excited to say that she's "finally done" being a mother? It's not that I don't believe in treating your children like adults, because I do. In fact, I think you do them a great disservice if you don't treat them like adults when they're old enough to act like them. But as a mother, my job will never be "done."
When my dad died, his own father and stepmother showed up late and left early on the day of his funeral, and I haven't heard from them since.
With the exception of my maternal grandmother, my own grandparents were very much like this mother with whom I spoke. Growing up, I watched my dad tirelessly try to have a relationship with his parents. Even though I was a child, it wasn't lost on me that my grandparents weren't particularly interested in him. Or me. Sure, they'd chat on the phone here and there, and every now and then my parents would load us up in the car and take the two-and-a-half-hour drive to visit them. But all I remember about those phone calls and visits was the sheer awkwardness of them mixed with a sense that we were total outsiders as opposed to a part of their family.
When I was in high school, I remember my dad sitting me down and gently telling me that his mother had passed away. He was devastated. I told him I was sorry, gave him a hug, then ran to go and meet my friends, who were waiting for me outside. My grandmother had died, and I couldn't have cared less. Not because I have a heart of stone - I don't - but because I simply couldn't muster up any grief for a woman I had never known; a woman who had chosen not to be a part of my life save for a handful of telephone calls spread out over my 17 years. Then, eight years ago, when my dad died, his own father and stepmother showed up late and left early on the day of his funeral, and I haven't heard from them since.
I have never understood it. All children want to feel loved, because even when we become adults, we're still the children of our parents and grandparents. When we're small, we want to know that our parents are there as our great champions and protectors. As we grow, we want our parents there for guidance and support (even when we think we don't). And as adults, we still want our parents there, continuing to share in our joys and our sorrows. We want them to be there for our children; to share in our joy as we celebrate birthdays, baptisms, graduations, and all of the other wonderful milestones. And should something go terribly wrong, we want to know that our parents are there to catch us as we fall. Not out of guilt or obligation but out of love. And when they fail, it's crushing.
Over the years, I've found that people rarely change. The mother who thinks her job is done after 18 years isn't likely to win grandmother of the year. The parents who won't inconvenience themselves for their own children certainly won't go out of their way for their grandchildren. But all we can do is try to see people for who they are, and adjust our expectations accordingly. And, in some instances, that means simply having no expectations at all.
Editor's Note: This piece was written by a POPSUGAR contributor and does not necessarily reflect the views of POPSUGAR Inc. Interested in joining our POPSUGAR Voices network of contributors from around the globe? Click here.
These DIY Halloween Costumes Are Perfect For Parents Who Secretly Hate DIY
There are a number of ways you can go when it comes to DIYing your kid's Halloween costume. You can wait until the very last minute, head to the craft store, and make a laughable attempt to sew together something that somewhat resembles a superhero cape, or you can take the easy way out and buy a DIY kit. Think we're making that up? You're oh-so wrong.
The company KiwiCo created a series of "Build Your Own" Halloween costume kits that are earmarked for the Pinterest-challenged parents. In fact, you don't have to lift a finger save for entering in your credit card information and clicking "purchase." KiwiCo send materials to your child so they they can create their costume of choice. Choose from over 12 different designs. Here are a few of our favorite.
How Having a (Much) Younger Sibling Changed My Life
When we were kids, my little sister Madison and I were the M&Ms - my parents' duo of daughters. We were the only kids among friends and family since my parents got married and had the two of us before age 30. As sisters we received a lot of attention, and we liked it that way. So it was quite a surprise when my mom and dad sat us down to let us know that baby number three was on the way; I was 10 years old. To say the least, my sister and I were a little perplexed at the thought of some new baby coming to town and turning our world upside down. Little did I know that this new baby would change my life forever.
As soon as my brother Mac was born, he completely stole my heart. Even at almost 11 years old, I created a bond with this tiny little baby that most people don't get to experience until they are much older. It's been 15 years since Mac was born, so I've learned a few things from having a young brother. Here's my case for spread-out siblings:
- You learn about responsibility early on. Having an infant in your life means watching your parents endlessly change diapers, make bottles, and wipe spit-up. Every once in awhile, I was allowed to do those things (under parental supervision), and I learned just how important it was to take care of this little life before I even hit middle school. Needless to say, I was an excellent babysitter.
- You watch a child grow up. I remember the first time Mac crawled, walked, and said my name. I remember how excited my family was when we discovered how fast of a reader he was in kindergarten. I'll never forget telling him bedtime stories before he went to sleep at night, and I especially won't forget when he told me about his first "girlfriend" when he started middle school. I'm watching this kid grow up into a man - well, more like a pubescent teen - but you get the picture. It's cool to think about the entirety of his life and how far he has come. I have been able to experience that.
- You stay in the know. Most 20-somethings don't know what the heck Minecraft is. I didn't, either, until my hip, tech-savvy brother told me about the video game. And that's not the first thing he's told me about. I work in a trend-driven editorial environment, and my brother still manages to find out things before me. Good thing he has no problem telling me that I actually don't know about anything cool at all.
- You teach your sibling life lessons. From a young age, my brother watched my sister and me overcome personal challenges, go to high school, and, worst of all, get our hearts broken. Nothing makes Mac more upset than a mean guy who hurts a girl's feelings. We joke that Mac is going to be the best husband ever when he grows up, but he really will be. Watching his sisters go through life's tribulations has taught him how he should act when he gets older.
- You create an incredible bond. I have no shame in telling people that one of my best friends is a 15-year-old boy. Now that I don't live with my family anymore, I feel this incredible guilt if I go too long without seeing my siblings. When the three of us are together, it's pretty much the best time ever. Even though Mac and I are aged so far apart, we have this assurance of trust and understanding between us. He looks up to me and knows he can tell me everything; I look to him for comic relief and a really good hug when I arrive back home.
So if that doesn't convince you that siblings with big age gaps are a good thing, I don't know what will. All I can say is that my family wouldn't be the same without Mac. In fact, our family without him is unimaginable. So thanks, Mom and Dad, for turning the M&Ms into the Three Musketeers.
What It's Like Being a Parent When Your Partner Works Crazy Hours
Sometimes I beat myself up for not being the best mom. I wonder how my other mom friends do it - have the time to cook Instagram-worthy meals while being responsible for the kids, feed said meals to said kids, and do bath and bedtime and live to tell the tale. Then I remember . . . most of my mom friends have partners who are home from work for all of the above. My husband, however, works outside the traditional 9-to-5 window.
When I'm getting snippy with our toddler or silently cursing about the baby's unrelenting fussing, I do feel a little sorry for myself. But then I remember I'm not the only one whose partner works crazy hours, and that there are moms who have it much harder than I do (all hail the single parent). But I'm talking about being a unit, one-half of a married couple, one-half of a parenting duo, yet finding myself alone . . . a lot.
Shift work is the culprit here, and many families know how hard it can be to make the schedule of shift work occupations manageable. Nurses, doctors, law enforcement, first responders, transportation workers, security officers, hospitality workers, and so many others all have odd working hours in common. Shifts can be overnight, 17 hours long, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., what have you. If anyone in this type of work is married with children, their partner is usually a one-person team during those hours.
I'm talking about being one-half of a married couple, one-half of a parenting duo, yet finding myself alone . . . a lot.
When my husband and I were dating and living together, the schedule was tough to get used to. I worked a regular job, and I was home for dinner every night. He worked 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. one week, then 4 p.m. to midnight the next week, and that's not counting overtime shifts (which is how a lot of shift workers make most of their money). Doesn't sound too crazy, right? Well, we wouldn't see each other every other week because I would be asleep by the time he got home and he wasn't awake when I left in the morning. And while my weekend was Saturday and Sunday, his could be Tuesday and Wednesday one week and Sunday and Monday the next.
Every other week, I ate dinner by myself every night (but, on the bright side, also had full control of the television remote). There were nights our friends would go out, and I'd either go by myself or not at all because he'd be at work. Everyone got used to me coming to functions and holidays celebrations alone, and I started seamlessly living the life of a single, taken person.
While I generally didn't mind it, I did wonder what it would all mean when we had kids. Would he miss soccer games and ballet recitals? Would he be able to help with homework or attend a science fair? Would I feel alone in parenting? The answer to all of those questions is yes and no. He often misses seeing our daughter for more than a day or two because he'll get home from work once she's at school, then be asleep or back at work when she gets home. But on his days off, he takes her out for daddy-daughter dates, he spends time with the baby, and we all sit down for dinner together. He tries his best to be around for important things by switching his shifts for birthday parties and holidays the kids will remember. He does the best he can, and so do I.
But I, like my friends who are also married to shift workers, can't help but long for the routine of Daddy coming home for dinner, us putting the kids down together, and enjoying a full weekend of family time. I'm always so thankful that he works so hard for our family, and I've accepted our version of traditional family time. Would I like him around when I'm wrangling two slippery kids in the tub? Yes. Would he probably be better at calmly reading bedtime stories? I think so. But it makes the time we do manage to spend together that much more meaningful. And isn't that what marriage and families should be about? A bunch of meaningful moments that, when combined, make up your family story? Because no matter how different the chapters are each week, I really love our story.
When Should Kids Stop Trick-or-Treating? The Answer Might Surprise You
A plethora of comfy sweaters, pumpkins everywhere, and the debate over whether or not candy corn is the best or the dessert of the devil (team candy corn over here) are just a few of the things you can expect to see every Fall. And if people aren't debating about very serious candy rankings, they're probably talking about what age kids should stop trick-or-treating.
There's no right or scientific answer for when a child should stop trick-or-treating. It's up to the child to determine when they want to ditch the costumes and try something else.
I get that some adults are annoyed by older kids ringing their doorbell and asking for candy. The holiday is a chance for young children to dress up and use their imaginations, which gives a special magic to Halloween. Older children, namely those in middle and high school, are clearly out of the realm of pretend, and therefore may feel somewhat out of place among the hoard of 5-year-olds running around dressed as Elmo. For many, it feels like the teens are taking the candy and innocent fun from the younger kids, and some cities agree with them. Teens also start to pay more attention to the "trick" aspect of trick-or-treating, causing mischief and playing pranks on unsuspecting neighbors.
In the Canadian town of Bathurst, New Brunswick, they banned teenagers over the age of 16 from dressing up and trick-or-treating. While they did this largely in response to pranks that were being pulled, by banning trick-or-treating, they were also sending a message that Halloween is only for younger children. Yet, as the law in New Brunswick demonstrates, the fear of older children trick-or-treating has less to do with keeping the holiday kid-focused and everything to do with policing mischievous behavior.
If a child, no matter their age, is respectful and in costume, I will always open my door for them on Halloween. It doesn't matter if they're three or 13, I'd rather have a group of teenagers trick-or-treating and having a good time than out causing trouble. As long as they still want to, you should feel totally OK with letting them get dressed up with their friends - even if it's just some silly face paint - walk around the neighborhood, and, yes, eat way too much candy. And if they don't want to (you'll probably hear a, "That's so lame, Mom!"), that's OK, too. There are so many other fun and spooky activities you can organize for your teen to enjoy on Halloween.
At the end of the day, there's no right or scientific answer for when a child should stop trick-or-treating. While it usually happens naturally when they become a teenager, there's no official cutoff age (unless your town enforces one). It's up to the child to determine when they want to ditch the costumes and do something else. Until then, feel free to continue letting them have a little door-to-door fun.
Scarlett Johansson and Chadwick Boseman Discuss Their First Times in This Hilarious Voting PSA
Do you remember your first time? Wait, no. Not that first time. The other first time . . . as in your first time voting. A handful of actors recently got together to hilariously tell stories about their "first times" in a short PSA urging citizens to register to vote in the upcoming midterm elections - though, admittedly, the innuendo-filled stories aren't as funny when you put them in the right context. But you get it.
The PSA was organized by March For Our Lives with help from We Stand United, and it stars several Marvel actors including Chadwick Boseman, Chris Evans, Don Cheadle, and Scarlett Johansson alongside other famous faces such as Zoë Kravitz, Rosario Dawson, and Mark Ruffalo. In it, they discuss their first times voting in between giggles and lots of seemingly dirty jokes. "My first time was in the back of a firehouse," Kravitz says before Cheadle follows up with, "Mine was in a church." Referencing Hillary Clinton, Chris Evans later jokes that his first time with a woman was in 2016. "It felt good, but it ended badly," he says alluding to the Democratic nominee's shocking loss.
The video is being released exactly one week before Oct. 9, which is the voter registration deadline in most states, and it aims to push young people to vote on Nov. 6. "While the video may make you laugh, the message is clear," March For Our Lives cofounder Delaney Tarr said in a statement. "No matter how or where you do it, all that matters is on November 6th we need all Americans to register and vote on Election Day. Our generation has the power to be heard all across America. We need every single American to join us in the fight." Watch the full video above and register to vote at MarchForOurLives.com.
These Fall Festivals Will Give You a Hankering For Hot Cider, Hay Rides, and Chunky Sweaters
Fall is this glorious season where the air is crisp, the sweaters come out, the wine is spiced, and weekends are spent indulging in seasonal sweets like caramel apples and pumpkin pie. It's also one of the best times to visit a festival. With apple and pumpkin season in full swing, Oktoberfest kicking off, and the tail end of wine-making season all converging in Fall, there are so many things to do to get in the mood for snuggle season. And there are some specialty festivals, too, that only come around once a year during the Fall.
Want to know what festivals are happening this year around the country? Grab your comfy boots and your favorite seasonal sweater, because we know where to be when it comes to celebrating the season. Hit them all up before it's time to hibernate for the Winter.
If You're Not Going to Disneyland in the Fall, You're Seriously Missing Out
If you're thinking about planning a trip to Disneyland, make it this Fall. Without a doubt, the Autumn season is the best time to travel to the most magical place on earth. Read on to understand why you should be planning for the coming months and make it your best trip ever!
13 Stores That Will Welcome Your Dog With Open Arms
When Reddit user terriblesubreddit shared a picture of their adorable puppy in a Home Depot cart with the message that the store is totally pet friendly, we got to wondering about what other major retailers are also pet friendly. There are the obvious answers - Petco and PetSmart - but surprisingly, there are several other stores that welcome your pets along with you, provided they are always under your control and as long as you clean up after them should they make any messes.
Here are a few of the retailers we found that allow dogs, but keep in mind it's always wise to call a store before you go to make sure it's OK. We have found that though some store policies allow dogs, specific store managers will not, and though some store policies prohibit dogs, certain store managers welcome them. Always good to err on the side of caution!
- Home Depot
- Lowe's
- Barnes & Noble
- Macy's
- Pottery Barn
- Bass Pro Shops
- Restoration Hardware
- Bloomingdale's
- Anthropologie
- Gap
- Nordstrom
- Lush Cosmetics
- Urban Outfitters
For the most part, these stores (among many smaller, local stores) are said to be dog friendly, but like we said before, we highly recommend calling each establishment first. Rules will also vary based on where you live and how your local culture is. When I lived in a small suburb of San Francisco, everyone took their dogs everywhere - including the grocery store - and it was never an issue. So make some calls, check out some stores, and let us know if there are any major stores we missed!
14 Fall Soups, Because Salads Are So Last Season
Now is the perfect time to cozy up with a bowl of pumpkin soup or, better yet, classic tomato. If those two don't cut it, does butternut squash, beet, or chicken noodle entice your palate? Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a warm way to start your dinner, spoon through our recipes to find a Fall favorite.
- Additional reporting by Emily Bibb
These Fall Festivals Will Give You a Hankering For Hot Cider, Hay Rides, and Chunky Sweaters
Fall is this glorious season where the air is crisp, the sweaters come out, the wine is spiced, and weekends are spent indulging in seasonal sweets like caramel apples and pumpkin pie. It's also one of the best times to visit a festival. With apple and pumpkin season in full swing, Oktoberfest kicking off, and the tail end of wine-making season all converging in Fall, there are so many things to do to get in the mood for snuggle season. And there are some specialty festivals, too, that only come around once a year during the Fall.
Want to know what festivals are happening this year around the country? Grab your comfy boots and your favorite seasonal sweater, because we know where to be when it comes to celebrating the season. Hit them all up before it's time to hibernate for the Winter.
If You're Not Going to Disneyland in the Fall, You're Seriously Missing Out
If you're thinking about planning a trip to Disneyland, make it this Fall. Without a doubt, the Autumn season is the best time to travel to the most magical place on earth. Read on to understand why you should be planning for the coming months and make it your best trip ever!
Ever Feel Queasy and Sick After Taking CBD Oil? These Experts Explain Why
Have you ever felt sick to your stomach after taking CBD oil? If so, you're not alone - but the reason you feel that way probably isn't as straightforward as you think. Upset stomach, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal distress are not typically caused by cannabinoid oil itself, but rather by ingredients used to deliver CBD oil into the body or flaws during production.
Without those factors, CBD may even help treat stomach issues. "It's been shown to help heal ulcers and decrease acid reflux," said Dr. Kenneth Brown, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist and doctor of internal medicine in Plano, TX, who often recommends CBD oil to his patients. "When the CBD binds to the CB1 receptor, it decreases excessive gastric acid, helps the lower esophagus prevent reflux, and increases blood flow to the lining of the stomach to help it heal quicker."
CBD is also known to help heal the digestive tract. So, why do some people have issues?
"In my practice, when someone has gastrointestinal issues with CBD, we start with the product, because many times that may be a reason they are feeling sick. Just like all other health supplements, the quality and the source of CBD oil make all the difference," Dr. Brown told POPSUGAR. Quality can be diminished if the cannabis or hemp is grown in poor soil or undergoes harsh extraction processes (often involving chemicals), or if the product is sourced from multiple locations.
Then there's the issue of the carrier, as experts call it. "CBD oil is used with many carriers, including olive oil, coconut/MCT oil, grapeseed oil, emu oil, or hempseed oil," explained Dr. Michele Ross, PhD, CEO of Infused Health and a leading cannabinoid medicine researcher. "If you are experiencing gastrointestinal distress symptoms or an upset stomach, you may have a sensitivity, especially to coconut/MCT oil, which is the most common carrier I've seen. Many people can experience abdominal cramping and stomach pain, especially when consuming large quantities."
If you're experiencing these symptoms, Dr. Ross suggests that you stop taking CBD oil for a day or two to identify that it's the supplement and not some other issue (your diet, stress) that is causing your discomfort. Then, try taking the CBD oil again at half the dose you were taking before. If it's still bothering you, try a CBD oil that uses a different carrier, or perhaps an entirely different method that's applied to the skin, rather than through the stomach.
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