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In a published in the journal Menopause, scientists found that menopausal women who drank caffeine were more likely to experience hot flashes and night sweats than those who avoided the drug. It is estimated that 85 percent Americans consume some form of caffeine -- which includes tea, coffee, energy drinks and some sodas -- on a daily basis. However, the study also suggests that the effects of caffeine differ depending on what stage of menopause a woman may be in. The study revealed that caffeine users who are just making the transition into menopause, known as perimenopausal, experienced a boost in their mood, memory and concentration after consuming the drug. The information was collected between July 25, 2005, to July 25, 2011, from 2,507 women aged 40 year or more who came to the Women's Health Clinic at Mayo Clinic in Rochester with menopause related concerns. "While these findings are preliminary, our study suggests that limiting caffeine intake may be useful for those postmenopausal women who have bothersome hot flashes and night sweats," Stephanie Faubian, director of the clinic said. are certainly challenging and in a Mayo news release, Faubian suggested some ways to cope with other menopause symptoms such as avoiding spicy food, hot beverages, alcohol and -- obviously -- caffeine. She also suggested dressing in layers that can be easily removed and sleeping with moisture-control bedding so as to limit discomfort from night sweats. | 7 | 1,000 | health |
Ford is donating a special-edition, one-off 2015 Ford Mustang F-35 Lightning II Edition for auction to raise money for the EAA Young Eagles. The event, for which Ford has become an annual perennial benefactor, kicks of atg the EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Using a new Mustang GT fastback coupe as its base, the 2015 Ford Mustang F-35 Lightning II Edition is styled after the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jet. The most prominent modification is the car's matte titanium paint, blue-and-yellow lightning livery at the rear, and gold-tinted windows, drawing from styles seen on early-production F-35 jets. Custom 21-inch wheels combine with yellow-painted brake calipers for a dramatic flair, while Ford lowered the ride height by replacing the stock springs with Eibach ones. Up front the 2015 Ford Mustang F-35 Lightning II Edition bears a thick racing stripe running toward a new splitter and an extended lip spoiler. There are also restyled rocker moldings; yellow mirror caps; a trunk-mounted rear wing; and larger, ceramic-coated exhaust outlets. The interior looks like a proper cockpit, with Recaro racing seats, a custom audio system, as well as F-35-themed floor mats and sill plates. The 2015 Ford Mustang F-35 Lightning II Edition is now the seventh vehicle since 2008 that Ford has donated to the EAA Young Eagles, an organization which provides free introductory flights for young, aspiring aviators. Past auctions, which featured one-offs such as an Air Force Thunderbirds-themed 2014 Mustang , a Red Tails Mustang , a Blue Angels Mustang , and an SR-71 Blackbird Mustang , have collectively raised upwards of $2.5 million for the Young Eagles. Exact performance upgrades aren't available yet, but last year's Thunderbirds Mustang was packing heat with a supercharger, Brembo brakes, and an improved suspension. It sold at auction for $398,000. If you want to support the EAA Young Eagles and get your hands on the 2015 Ford Mustang F-35 Lightning II Edition, one of the first 2015 Ford Mustangs sold, bring your checkbook to Oshkosh on July 31. Source: Ford | 9 | 1,001 | autos |
BMW's new lineup of I cars currently consists of the i3 and i8, which should be joined by other models in the future. A report by Auto Motor und Sport suggests that a BMW i9 is in the works, which would be a more extreme version of the i8. The German magazine also reports that it would arrive in 2016 to coincide with BMW's 100th anniversary. A special milestone deserves a special car and the BMW i9 will outshine the i8 in a number of ways. For starters, it'll make more power than the i8 thanks to a larger six-cylinder engine and possibly a more powerful electric motor. The i8 currently employees a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder and two electric motors for a combined output of 357 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. No word if the engine will be a straight-six or V-6, though the former may prove to be a challenge in a mid-mounted layout. The i9 will likely weigh more than the i8 due to its heftier powertrain, though BMW may attempt to offset those pounds and maintain ideal weight distribution with more carbon fiber chassis and body parts. Auto Motor und Sport estimates that the i9 will run from 0-62 mph in under four seconds, which should be right on pace or slightly faster than the i8. The i8 is already a stunning looker, but the BMW i9 could stand apart by evoking design cues from the iconic M1. It'll also be more expensive than the i8, which currently starts at $136,625. Do you think the i9 would be a proper car to celebrate BMW's 100th birthday? Let us know in the comments below. Source: Auto Motor und Sport | 9 | 1,002 | autos |
The Nissan Cube and Murano CrossCabriolet weren't hot sellers, but they definitely turned heads. And now with those two models axed from Nissan's lineup, an executive pledges that his company will soon add an "iconic" model to showcase the company's edgy styling. Nissan's chief planning officer Andy Palmer recently told Automotive News that his company needs to unveil a head-turning vehicle as a follow-up to the boxy Cube and the unique Murano CrossCabriolet, a soft-top, two-door convertible crossover. Both vehicles were slow sellers and won't be returning to Nissan's model-year 2015 lineup. "To be clear, we will morph this space in our portfolio into something iconic," Palmer told Automotive News in an e-mail. "The space is held to make sure we have something iconic." Palmer didn't elaborate what that iconic car might be, but Nissan would undoubtedly command the attention of enthusiasts by putting the IDx concept into production. The IDx is a rear-drive coupe inspired by the Datsun 510 and would compete against the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ. The idea of a production IDx seemed promising shortly after the concept's debut at last year's Tokyo auto show, but recent rumors suggest Nissan is running into obstacles. Specifically, the automaker is struggling to find ways to keep the coupe below $30,000, a price point that must be met in order to make the IDx profitable and competitive. Another possibility would be a production version of the Blade Glider , a concept with a wedge-shaped body mimicking the DeltaWing race car. Source: Automotive News (Subscription required) | 9 | 1,003 | autos |
Stuck in the same-old-blowout rut or simply out of new ways to do your hair? Bust out of boring with a month's supply of fresh styles and tips. "Trim" Your Hair For the latest faux bob, brush hair into a ponytail, but keep hair loose above the elastic to create a chin-length illusion from the front. Be a Pushover Twist and pin back a few strands on one side to form a sexy sweep that gently frames your features. Accessorize Your Updo Place a sparkly band just behind your ears to glam up a texturized bun or twist. Try the Pony-Bun Pull hair into a tight pony. Lift the top of the tail up and clip it against your head at the crown. Now flip it back down and clip again above the nape. Let Your Bobby Pins Show Pile on a bunch (the key to making this trend work) in a color that contrasts with your hair, and your casual updo turns seriously chic. Stop, Drop, and Roll Channel a flapper by parting hair deep on the side, then gathering it all at the nape before rolling it upward and pinning. Coil Your Bun Kyle Rover/startraksphoto.com (2) Work the Shoulder All this flirty red-carpet fave takes is a quick tweak to your blowout. Coat damp hair with gel for hold, then push to one side with a paddle brush. Bulk Up Your Pony Tons of teasing gives this style oomph. Key details? Height at the crown and a strand wrapped around the elastic. Bump It to the Side Part hair slightly off-center, pull back a section above your ear, and pin it just below the crown, sliding the hair forward to make a pouf. Weave an Updo Braid two plaits, one on either side of your head. Gather them in back, then twist together to form a bun. Wear Faux Fringe Want bangs like Rooney Mara's for a night? Go for a clip-in variety that matches your color, then heat-style them to suit your do. Think Big The new blowout is all about big, bouncy volume. Start by blow-drying hair with a large barrel brush, set in loose pin curls for 10 minutes, then shake out until ends are wavy. Slip on a Turban How to switch up your look without even picking up a brush? Slide on a bold turban headband. Position it at the temples and push hair up (just a bit) for a relaxed but still sophisticated vibe. Just Twist Here's a no-fuss do for any texture. Just coil strands (like you do when you're bored), then pin hair randomly all over. Top It Off Fedora, beret, or knit cap, Zoë Kravitz rocks them all -- an inspiration to you to buy a few cool hats and deploy them as necessary. Take Up the Slack Brush hair back into a high, tight pony, then shellac the sides into submission with gel for a super-sleek effect (it takes two minutes!). Create a Halo Braiding hair horizontally on either side of a deep side part creates a whimsical, hippie-like effect. Jordan Strauss/WireImage Got a spare shoelace or leather cord? Weave it into your plait to rough up the texture and define your twists. Rock a Big Curl in the Front This mod do works best on thick hair. Wrap the whole top section around a large curler, slide it out, twist, and pin. Embrace Your Frizz No, really. The key is to strike the right look by brushing out tight curls and misting with a shine spray to create a soft (not stiff) feel. Let Your Updo Come Undone Sweep your hair up into a twist, but instead of tucking the ends in, let them spill out. Pull some pieces free around your face for a tousled finish. Detail Your Tail Copy this hybrid style by gathering hair into a low pony, then fishtail-braid a small section of the upper tail, leaving the rest sleek. Fire Up Your Locks Deep, wearable reds have instant impact. Ease in with a temporary tint that washes out in a few shampoos. Position Your Plait Lend the season's go-to braid a feminine feel by flicking it over your shoulder and letting a few wisps slip out. Tie On a Pretty Scarf These toppers were all over the runways, looking best when knotted off-center and with hair teased for a little height. (Bonus: It's a hip way to hide greasy roots.) Be a Wrap Star Bring a glam vibe to a structured bun by winding a braided section (or extension) around the base and pinning in place. Wash and Go (For Real) Give your blow-dryer a rest by combing through damp hair with gel, then sculpting the sides and top upward. Add Volume to Your Updo Leave the crown section out when you gather your messy bun, then create a sexy bump up top by teasing. Use bobby pins to hold the section in place. Do the Urban Wave Cousin to the beach wave, this looser bend can be achieved by sleeping in braids. Easy! | 4 | 1,004 | lifestyle |
Cruising through the rapidly gentrifying streets of downtown Los Angeles in a 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat the other evening, I came upon a white Bentley. Some sort of Continental, and for the sake of rhetorical flourish, let's assume she was a GT Speed. Fast car, no? What with 616 horsepower from a twin-turbo W-12, it ought to be. Yet all I could think while every single muscle and tendon in my right ankle suddenly went taught was, "Aw, poor Bentley! You've only got around 600 horsepower. Keep trying, little guy, you'll get there." A hair-trigger throttle and 707 hp do strange things to a man's mind. Then I mashed the gas and, well friends, the smile's still there. Strange things to a man's face, too. No doubt you've perused our first drive of the new, ultra-mighty, simultaneously genre-defining and -smashing, muscular monster from Mopar. In that review you can get all the hairy, technical details about how Dodge majordomo Ralph Gilles and friends were able to coax a ridiculous 707 hp with an accompanying catapult-worthy 650 pound-feet of torque from a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8. Feel free to read that last sentence again if you like. I can wait. This first test, however, is much more concerned with the more visceral aspects of the Hellcat. To quote my colleague Erick Ayapana, "The supercharger whine can double as an air raid siren." Boy howdy. How'd she handle? To quote our man Scott Evans, "Just like a Challenger. Understeer into the corner, oversteer out." Which, I'd like to add, is exactly how it should be. You want massive horsepower and catlike reflexes? Buy a Viper. Or wait a few months and grab the upcoming 650-hp, 650-lb-ft-of-torque Corvette Z06. The Hellcat is another breed of beastie entirely. Sure, there's probably some way to foist a super-stiff chassis and all the track-worthiness that entails under the latest and greatest from SRT. But you'd be missing the point. This is a big, comfortable boulevard yacht that just so happens to have a Hellfire missile where the engine should be. Voyaging along in the Barcalounger front thrones with potent, finger-chilling air conditioning and a pretty righteous stereo in total comfort, yet knowing that you can break the tires completely loose in almost any of the eight gears (our test car's an auto; we'll reviewthe manual in a later story) is precisely the point. If you really must know, the Hellcat can be wanged around our figure-eight course in 24.7 seconds. That's the exact same time as an Alfa Romeo 4C, actually. OK, OK -- so what actually happens when you mash the throttle from a dead start? Many things, it turns out, and all of them car-guy fantasy stuff. If you just punch it with every traction and stability nanny off, the tires are happy to self-immolate. Hot tip: The front and rear tires are square. Meaning that you have identical 20-inch, 275-width Pirelli P Zeros at all four corners. So when you melt the rears a tad just go ahead and swap 'em with the fronts. Remember, you didn't buy the Hellcat to go autocrossing. Leave that sort of stuff to the Miatas of the world. Honestly, if big smoky burnouts are your top car-buying priority, stop researching. The Hellcat creates stinky, juvenile white clouds better than any other new car. The Challenger Hellcat does come with a launch control system. As with the Ford Shelby GT500, you're able to adjust the rpm at which the engine holds itself through a screen. Hold brake, stomp pedal, lift left foot, and away you go. However, our testing crew found that this wasn't the best way to launch the Hellcat. No, the quickest way down the quarter required careful throttle application and starting in second gear. Interesting corollary: Goofing around once behind John Hennessey's shop in one of his 700-hp Cadillac CTS-V coupes, I learned that first gear was totally useless. All it does is create a whole bunch of glorious smoke. Seems as if once you get to the 700-horse threshold in rear-drive cars, traction becomes a serious issue. Here's the part you've been waiting for. Our best run in the Hellcat resulted in 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds before whacking the quarter mile upside the head in 11.7 seconds at 125.4 mph. So many things to note here. First of all, as far as direct competition still on sale, the Hellcat is quicker than the Camaro ZL1. The supercharged Chevy takes 3.8 seconds to hit 60 mph and requires 12.2 seconds to run the corner, trapping out at 116.6 mph. So, that's a win. What about competition you can't buy new anymore, like -- for instance -- the recently discontinued 662-hp Shelby GT500? The lighter Snake needed only 3.5 seconds for its 60-mph blast and 11.6 seconds to go down the quarter mile with a trap speed of 125.7 mph. Slight advantage: Ford. That said, it's gone, so in terms of new-car sales, the Snake don't matter. What about the Viper? In the TA, we saw 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and a quarter-mile spanking of 11.3 seconds with an astonishing trap speed of 129.3 mph. Of course, the Hellcat weighs 1000 pounds more than its big (but smaller) brother. I'd also like to note that this is the closely spaced eight-speed ZF automatic Hellcat, not the longer-geared six-speed manual version. The Shelby had very tall gearing, meaning that you could launch the sucker in first gear, and it was of course a manual. Let's revisit the Ford versus Dodge comparison once we get our hands on the row-your-own Hellcat. Until then, Mopar faithful, have faith! What about the 11.2-second quarter-mile time that Dodge has been trumpeting to the world? Well, half a second (11.7 seconds versus 11.2) is the difference between a prepped VHT surface and the street. All Motor Trend testing is done on asphalt, while Dodge got its big number on the strip. Now a word about trap speeds. 125 mph is insane. Here's some comparative data for you. The 991 Porsche 911 Turbo S can hammer home the quarter mile in just 10.9 seconds (on Pirelli P Zeros, coincidently) but its trap speed is only 123.7 mph. The quicker time is due to better traction at launch (thanks, AWD!) but the Dodge -- which costs a third the entry price of the porker, about $60K versus $180K -- is going faster at the end of 1320 feet. And since stoplight-to-stoplight racing is never GPS-tracked ... You get my point. Look at the 2014 Nissan GT-R Track Edition. That flavor of Godzilla does the quarter in 11.0 seconds flat, but is "only" trapping at 125.1 mph. OK, so the Hellcat's barely faster, but here's the point -- it's faster. Conclusion. Get some fatter, stickier rear meats for the Challenger Hellcat and it really does have the intestinal fortitude to embarrass cars costing double and triple the price. A retired and wheeled Hellcat would probably smack that Shelby around pretty good, too. Until then, Hellcat owners can happily chew on the knowledge that the next cheapest 700-horsepower steed in existence is the $322,638, 731-hp Ferrari F12 Berlinetta. More important, I've driven both cars and would much rather drive the Hellcat. I've also spent a great deal of time in the Shelby GT500. And the Viper. And the ZL1. Hellcat, hands down. Hats off to the Dodge boys. They've built an all-timer. 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat BASE PRICE $60,990 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, RWD, 5-pass, 2-door coupe ENGINE 6.2L/707-hp/650-lb-ft supercharged OHV 16-valve V-8 TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 4449 lb (57/43%) WHEELBASE 116.2 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 197.5 x 75.7 x 55.7 in 0-60 MPH 3.7 sec QUARTER MILE 11.7 sec @ 125.4 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 109 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.94 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 24.7 sec @ 0.85 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 15/25/18 mpg ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 225/135 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS 1.06 lb/mile | 9 | 1,005 | autos |
Mercedes is celebrating the 120th anniversary of the first motor race ever, which took place on July 22, 1894. In that race, two Daimler-powered vehicles took the top spots, and a third Benz vehicle took 5th. The premise of the contest was simple; a 78-mile route was organized from Paris to Rouen, France, organized by the daily Parisian newspaper "Le Petite Journal" to demonstrate the feasibility and supremacy of gasoline-powered vehicles of the time. While the competition was created to showcase what gasoline-powered vehicles were capable of, electric- and steam-powered vehicles were present along the route as well. Many vehicles of many shapes and sizes participated, but in the end, it was a Daimler-powered Peugeot as well as a Daimler-powered Panhard & Levassor that crossed the finish line together, and split the 5000-franc prize. The object of the race was not just to finish first, but for vehicles to demonstrate their reliability, refinement, and durability over the course of the race. The winning cars featured the "Système Daimler" powertrain layout, which included fast-running two-cylinder Daimler engines. Source: Daimler | 9 | 1,006 | autos |
2015 Subaru Outback 2.5i owners pay attention to track-tested performance data as much as BRZ sports car owners worry about rear-seat headroom -- it just doesn't happen. Owners of the new 2015 Outback will appreciate what they think the new wagon-like crossover, with its nifty retractable crossbars and integrated tie-downs, says about them. While the Outback boasts a reputation for actually being used for outdoorsy pursuits, nearly every off-road adventure ends on pavement, so we headed to the track to explore how the 2015 model compares to our long-gone 2010 Outback long-termer. Does the new Outback 2.5i reward drivers with sports-car acceleration? Not even close, but it is markedly improved over its predecessor, a versatile crossover that won our hearts to become the 2010 SUV of the Year . Matched against its predecessor, the all-wheel-drive 2015 Outback 2.5i is quicker, bigger, a better handler, and heavier, all at the same time. Let's start with the new Subaru's quickness: 0-60 mph in 9.2 seconds doesn't sound swift, but it's actually half a second better than our 2010 Outback long-termer. That 9.2-second time also puts the new Outback ahead of the 2014 Kia Sorento I-4 AWD (9.8 seconds) and just behind the mechanically related all-wheel-drive 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i sedan (8.8 seconds). With 87 percent of all Outbacks powered by the four-cylinder instead of the flat-six, the Subaru's slow-ish acceleration is just fine for those who aren't interested in the six-cylinder Outback 3.6R's $33,845 base price. EPA-rated fuel economy is a bright spot, with the 2015 model's 25/33 mpg city/highway boosted above the 2014 2.5i model's 24/30 mpg. After a Real MPG instrumented fuel economy test of our own, the 2015 Outback 2.5i came in at 21.5/30.8 mpg. That's below EPA estimates, but still higher than the all-wheel-drive 2014 Nissan Rogue, which has a similar 25/32 mpg EPA rating and 20.1/28.2 Real MPG. Paired with a standard CVT, the 2015 Outback 2.5i doesn't feel as slow as the 2010 model. Yes, you'll hear a bit of engine noise, but it's not that bad on the highway. Most of the time, the transmission provides a smooth driving experience, though at wide-open throttle the crossover mimics a traditional six-speed automatic transmission. Lead-footed drivers might have difficulties adjusting to the touchy throttle tip-in, a minor issue we've also noted in the 2015 Legacy 2.5i and 2014 Forester 2.5i. Around the figure-eight course, the 2015 Outback 2.5i put in a time of 26.3 seconds at 0.63 g (average), a noticeable improvement over the 2010 Outback's 29.1 seconds at 0.56 g (average). That doesn't mean the Outback 2.5i is an optimal winding-road partner, but with its well-tuned steering, it will hold its own as well as any 3702-pound crossover can. Braking from 60-0 mph takes 120 feet -- 12 feet longer than the lighter 2015 Legacy 2.5i and 9 feet shorter than the 2010 Outback 2.5i long-termer. Some buyers will insist on going for the six-cylinder 3.6R model, but it won't be for the extra towing capacity. The 2.5i model is rated at 2700 pounds (with a 200-pound trailer tongue weight), while the 3.6R adds another 300 pounds of capacity. On the road, the six-cylinder Outback definitely feels stronger than the 2.5i model, but it takes a few beats to get going. The 2.5-liter flat-four produces 175 hp at 5800 rpm and 174 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, with the 3.6-liter flat-six good for 256 hp at 6000 rpm and 247 lb-ft at 4400 rpm. Expect a 0-60 mph time of just over 7 seconds for the 3.6R model, and unless you really want the 3.6R-exclusive HID headlights, we'd stick with the more efficient 2.5i. As does the 2015 Legacy, the 2015 Outback has a much-improved interior. Our loaded 2.5i Limited model included high-quality faux wood trim, the latest version of the EyeSight active safety system, a navigation system with pinch-and-pull zoom functionality, and rear seats that recline and fold easily. Buyers who can afford more but still want a Subaru won't find a self-parking feature, panoramic moonroof, or multi-camera parking system, but the basics are all there. Once again, the Subaru Outback checks off enough boxes that it belongs on the shopping list of anyone who doesn't mind the wagon-like styling inextricably tied to the crossover's legacy. For more than 150 additional photos of the 2015 Subaru Outback, head to the second page of this review. 2015 Subaru Outback 2.5i PZEV Limited BASE PRICE $26,045 PRICE AS TESTED $34,135 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door SUV ENGINE 2.5L/175-hp/174-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve F-4 TRANSMISSION Cont. variable auto CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 3702 lb (56/44%) WHEELBASE 108.1 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 189.6 x 72.4 x 66.1 in 0-60 MPH 9.2 sec QUARTER MILE 17.1 sec @ 82.9 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 120 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.78 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 26.3 sec @ 0.63 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 25/33/28 mpg ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 135/102 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS 0.69 lb/mile | 9 | 1,007 | autos |
It's surprisingly easy to master the look. Just follow this insider advice from InStyle Beauty Director Amy Synnott-D'Annibale. Why we love them: Instant chicness You will look incredibly chic, even if you haven't washed your hair in a week. Frizzy hairline? Greasy roots? Brush it back, shellac with hairspray, and no one needs to know your dirty little secret. Why we love them: They're quick It can be done and, perhaps more important, undone in seconds. Letting your hair down after a long day at work is a bit like doing a hair striptease (cue sexy-secretary music). Bonus: After being swirled up on your head for hours, your strands will wave like a mermaid's. Why we love them: They're liberating Whether you're heading to the office or to the opera, there's something to be said for getting your hair off your face (and out of your mind) for a while. And if you're wearing major jewelry or a noteworthy neckline, the ballet bun will put them at center stage. Steal the look The simplest way to make a classic ballerina bun? The old "twist and pin." Yes, ladies, it's really that straightforward: Just pull your hair back, twist it until it coils, then slide in enough pins to set off the airport security alarms (pros always say you can use bobby pins, but we find giant U-shaped pins are much more manageable to work with on thick hair).The real question is, Where do you want to put it? Low on the nape looks sophisticated; high on the head is more trendy. And right in the middle is the best for poppin' a wheelie with those cheekbones. The midway positioning lifts the eye upward, giving your bone structure a subtle lift. How to bun one 1. PrepAny kind of updo is easier to create if your hair is a little dirty (and therefore less slippery). To give cleaner hair a more matte texture, spritz roots with dry shampoo before beginning. René Furterer Naturia dry shampoo, $12; beauty.com.2. TeaseAdding strategic volume can help you customize this style to your face shape. For an elongated one, tease inner layers on the side, then brush hair over them before pulling it into a bun. More round? Tease the crown first.Spornette Little Wonder teasing brush, $8; unitedbeauty.com3. Stuff and PinBrush hair into a ponytail, then pull the ends through a doughnut, sliding it up to the base of the pony. As the Bumpit's softer cousin, this mesh doughnut adds girth and structure to your bun. Fan strands around the mesh on all sides to cover it. To secure, insert two to four pins straight into the now-invisible doughnut. Spritz with a strong-hold hairspray. Bored with Your Hair Top Knot kit (hair bands not shown), $20; bored withyourhair.com. Our secret trick Could your bun use some padding? Snip the toe off a spare sock, and roll it up into a doughnut shape. Make a pony-tail, secure it with an elastic band, then snake the ends through the hole. Fan hair around the sock. Next, as you roll the sock up the length of the pony, tuck hair in. Pin securely. Voilà! Your bun just blossomed from an A cup to a C! | 4 | 1,008 | lifestyle |
Last December, I turned 40. It was my most surreal birthday, as I started to officially feel "old" -- that point when you are fast approaching middle age (something my midsection knows all too well) and start reflecting on life and mortality. Luckily, I didn't have too much time to ponder my being, as a pair of other birthdays put me on the road for some much-needed distraction. This year marks 50 years of Porsche's legendary 911 sports car, which debuted as the 901 at the 1963 Frankfurt motor show and was renamed for its market launch in 1964. A decade and a half prior, in 1949, Volkswagen had entered the U.S. market with its Type 1, or Beetle, a rear-engine, rear-drive cutie that would pave the way for 65 years of Vee-Dub's Bubblicious two-door on American roads. To celebrate these momentous occasions, and try to forget that I was four decades old, I spent a few days in hopped-up, late editions of each -- the 2014 Beetle GSR and, fittingly, the 2014 911 50th Anniversary Edition. And, for posterity's sake, I took a gander back at early tests each of these Bauhaus-inspired icons. My, have they come a long way. Motor Trend didn't get around to running a 911 until March 1966, when we tested a '66 with a 2.0-liter, 148-hp flat-six and a five- speed manual. At 2400 pounds, the $6470 Porsche laid down 0-60 in 10 seconds flat, the quarter mile in 16.6 seconds at 82.0 mph, and, with four-wheel disc brakes and Firestone Phoenix tires, 60-0 in 156 feet. A half-century later, the '14 911 50th paints a much different picture. The engine, still a flat-six and still hanging over the rear axle, now displaces 3.8 liters and pumps out 430 hp, nearly three times the output of the '66. The wheels have grown from 15 to 20 inches, the brakes have morphed from steel to ceramic, and the curb weight has swelled to 3313 pounds. Price? That, too, has swelled -- to $125,050. But the performance numbers have dropped just as drastically: 0-60 in a mere 3.9 seconds, the quarter mile in only 12.2 at 115.4 mph, and 60-0 in a scant 106 feet. Better yet, the 911 50th incorporates such classic design cues as Fuchs-style wheels, houndstooth cloth seats, and a chrome-plated rear grille, so reliving the past can feel decidedly modern. Now that's having your birthday cake and eating it, too. A year after the MT staff evaluated that first-gen 911, they affixed their test gear to a 1967 Beetle whose performance I can best describe as eager. With a whopping 53 hp, the featherweight 1880-pound Beetle hit 60 in 20.6 seconds, on the way to a quarter mile in...wait, a number was never published. Did they run out of time? Fast-forward to the 2014 Beetle GSR, in all its loud bumblebee getup. The engine and drive wheels have swapped ends, and the curb weight has ballooned by 1257 pounds. But, thanks to nearly fourfold the oomph, the 210-hp GSR not only got a quarter-mile time (14.8 seconds at 94.9 mph), but its time nestles about halfway between the stats of the old and new 911s. Impressive. Perhaps more impressive is that in the time it took the '67 to reach 60, the GSR would be going about 110 mph. In his test of the '67 Beetle, MT editor Robert Schilling concluded his thoughts on the VW's handling with this: "We found the slight initial oversteer predictable and controllable, and preferable to the choice some test cars gave us of oversteer due to too- quick steering or massive understeer. Moral: A damn fool can drive any car off a cliff; does it matter which end goes over first?" It doesn't. Happy birthday, Beetle and 911. Bottoms up. More from The Kiinote: IIHS' Small Overlap, Big Deal Geneva Fires Five Fastballs Five Questions for Lexus RC F, BMW M4 Engineers | 9 | 1,009 | autos |
Mother's Day is May 13, so to be sure you're ready, we put together the perfect collection of 24 genius and affordable picks any mom would love. It doesn't matter if she's trendy, a foodie, tech-obsessed (or all three!) we've got it covered. Catherine Weitzman Planchette Studs Add to her jewelry collection with studs she can wear with everything.$60, catherineweitzman.com. Aurélie Bidermann Mother-of-Pearl Charm Bracelet We love the combination of this sweet, iridescent "sunshine" charm against the edgy, menswear-inspired striped cotton ribbon, and so will Mom!$100, net-a-porter.com. Anna Bee Jewelry Rectangle Initial and Birthstone Necklace Personalize this modern pendant with Mom's initials and birthstone (or yours!).$97, maxandchloe.com. Topshop Leopard Scarf Leopard print is so much chicer in unexpected tones, like blue and gray.$32, topshop.com. Tory Burch Foundation Umbrella Add a little touch of designer to rainy days with one of Tory's signature prints. $58, toryburch.com. Zara Mini Party Messenger Bags These modern messenger bags easily go from day to night. Tip: They're affordable enough to buy one for her and one for you!$50 each, zara.com. Butter London Fash Pack Polish Set What's better than the perfect polish? Three of them -- in colors that never go out of style.$36, butterlondon.com. Marc Jacobs Daisy Petite Flower on the Go Duo She'll love these pretty floral scents in equally sweet bottles. $59, sephora.com. Bobbi Brown 20th Anniversary Lip Palette Who wouldn't love 20 gorgeous lip colors -- Bobbi Brown's 10 original colors from 1991 plus 10 new shades -- all in one case? $60, barneys.com. Votre Vu Bebe Duette Lip Balm and Hand Creme Pamper Mom with these compact hand creme and lip balm duos, perfect for travel or stashing on her nightstand.$39 each, votrevu.com. The Olive Press Dachshund Cruet With oil and vinegar cruets this adorable, she'll find any excuse to entertain!$24 each, theolivepress.com. Retta Le Ritz Stationery Moms of all ages will appreciate these colorful printed note cards, perfect for any occasion. $20 (for box of 10), rettaleritz.com. Jason Wu Orchid Rain Candle for Nest This new floral Nest candle by designer Jason Wu is so pretty, it doesn't need wrapping paper. $48, neimanmarcus.com. Plenty Cookbook Chef Yotam Ottolenghi's cookbook is filled with 120 innovative and flavorful vegetarian recipes (and gorgeous photography), inspired by his Mediterranean background.$22, barnesandnoble.com. Flower Girl NYC Floral Arrangements Nothing beats opening the door to find a stunning flower delivery. The Flower Girl arrangement and Single Potted Orchid, both $100, flowergirlnyc.com. Sabatino White Truffle Set Truffles times three -- this set takes decadence to the next level!$52, sabatinotartufi.com. eCreamery Make Your Own Ice Cream Choose the flavor and mix-ins for a customized luxury she most certainly will not want to share.$50/4 pints, ecreamery.com. David's Tea Sweet Indulgence Sampler Exotic tins of loose tea -- Buttered Rum, Coco Chai Rooibos, and more -- will instantly melt away the stress.$27, davidstea.com. Georgetown Cupcakes Mother's Day Dozen Spoil her with a dozen cupcakes decorated in her favorite palette.$29, georgetowncupcake.com. Popbar Hot Chocolate on a Stick Swirl these pops in a cup of coffee for an upgrade on the standard morning routine. $36 for 12, amazon.com. Diane Von Furstenberg Heart-Print Earbuds Your mom will have the chicest earbuds at the gym -- guaranteed. $25, net-a-porter.com. La Sardina Camera This camera boasts a wide-angle lens...and a gorgeous purple wave pattern way cooler than the typical black variety. $69, lomography.com. Rebecca Minkoff iPad Case Protect her favorite new gadget in this durable, stylish sleeve. $68, rebeccaminkoff.com. Le Papier Studio Personalized Cell Phone Cases With these customized cases, Mom will smile every time the phone rings.Silhouette cover and Monogram cover, $42 each, lepapierstudio.com. | 4 | 1,010 | lifestyle |
Pricing for the 2015 Ford F-150 lineup was confirmed today by a Ford spokesman. The F-150 range has been simplified from 10 models to just five, with the base XL starting at $26,615 including destination. With the STX trim eliminated, the next level up is the XLT, which starts at $31,925 . Both XL and XLT models come standard with the new 3.5-liter V-6, which makes 283 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. Both models increase by $395. The 2.7-liter EcBoost V-6, which makes 325 hp and 375 lb-ft , is available for the XL and XLT for $495. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 can be had for $1995 over the base V-6. The 2015 F-150 Lariat starts at $39,730 , increasing by $895, and comes standard with the 2.7-liter EcoBoost. The King Ranch model's starting price rises by $3615 to $49,690 , while the Platinum trim increases by $3055 to $52,155 . Both models come standard with the 5.0-liter V-8, but have the option of the 3.5-liter EcoBoost for $400. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost is not available on the two top-trim models. Thanks to its aluminum-intensive body, a base 2015 Ford F-150 is manufacturer-estimated to weigh 4475 pounds -- a huge reduction from the outgoing steel-bodied truck's curb weight. Though the lineup consists of just five models now, we recently spied a successor to the current SVT Raptor testing on public roads. Ford dealers will begin taking orders for the 2015 F-150 this week, which means we should see more details on package and option pricing soon. Source: Ford | 9 | 1,011 | autos |
Show Dad you're putting your allowance to great use! These cool gadgets, products, and treats are sure to bring a smile to his face! {none} Hot Sauce of the Month Club Dad doesn't need a gym membership to feel hot. Let him be a "Hot Sauce of the Month Club" member instead, and he can sample hard-to-find, premium sauces from world-renowned chefs! (amazingclubs.com, $56.85 for 3 months) {none} Hearst Ranch Steaks Give the number-one guy in your life a real reason to flaunt his grilling skills with these grass-fed, center-cut sirloin steaks! Mmm! A present the whole family can enjoy! (hearstranch.com, Box of 4 steaks, $49) {none} Mad Men Season 2 Dad won't be mad when he opens this DVD set! The hit TV series about an advertising agency in the 1960s will take up hours of his time — so he'll forget about nagging you to do your homework! (target.com, $49.98) {none} Four-Piece Wood and Brass Shave Set This old-fashioned shave set will keep Dad looking sharp! (target.com, $29.99) {none} Invincible: The Movie If he's still a kid at heart, he'll totally appreciate this football flick about an ordinary guy who ends up on the Philadelphia Eagles — kind of like his own dream come true! (target.com, $10.99) {none} Martha Stewart Collection Ribbon Matte Frame Away at college? Or just in your own bedroom down the hall? Make sure Dad always knows you're nearby and thinking of him with a framed pic of you two! (macys.com, $25) {none} Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2If there's one thing every guy loves, it's video games! This game is the sequel to the best-selling shooter of all time, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, so your dad is sure to be excited when he gets to come home to play this after a long day at work! (target.com, $59) {none} Wireless Shower Radio Make his morning routine a little easier with this shower radio and MP3 player in one! There's also an anti-fog mirror to make shaving foolproof and a clock to keep him on time! (jcpenney.com, $29.99) {none} Popular Mechanics Subscription Dad will love this DIY and tech mag so much that he might even feel compelled to buy you one of the latest computers or iPods he reads about! (popularmechanics.com, 24 issues for $18) {none} Anthony Logistics — The Perfect Shave Kit If your dad's a traveler, he's going to be obsessed with Anthony Logistics' Perfect Shave Kit! It contains everything he'll need to look great on the go, like cleanser, preshave oil, and shaving cream! (anthony.com, $50) {none} More Diners, Drive-ins and Dives by Guy Fieri There's nothing better than a good burger on a road trip with Dad. Give him this book and then hop in the car for a food tour of the US! (foodnetworkstore.com, $7.39) {none} LeSportsac Men's Essential Shave Kit This bag is cool, durable, and perfect for Dad's toiletries on business trips! (lesportsac.com, $42) {none} Gerber Suspension Multi-Tool He's going to love this miracle tool that has a billion different parts that pop out: bottle opener, can opener, scissors, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, three knife blades, wire cutters, and two sets of pliers! Your mom will love you too, now that your dad has no more excuses not to fix things. (walmart.com, $29.88) {none} Conair Chopper Facial Trimmer Dad will feel super-macho when he uses this two-in-one styler that looks more like a power tool than a groomer! (walmart.com, $26.44). {none} Esquire Subscription Bond with Dad over breakfast before school while you read Seventeen and he gets to catch up on Esquire! With style tips, celeb interviews, travel pieces, and more, there's no better gift! Plus, it will probably make him a much cooler dresser! No more sandals and socks? Yay! (esquire.com, get 24 issues for just $14) {none} Property of Athletic Personalized T-Shirt Give Dad his own sports team (kind of) with this personalized T-shirt. The best part is you can choose any name to go on this tee, so you can choose a silly one to get back at him for always calling you that annoying nickname when your boyfriend's over! (giftsforyounow.com, $14.95) | 4 | 1,012 | lifestyle |
Show the most important man in your life just how much you appreciate him! Here are some dad-approved gifts he's sure to love! Cool Hat Dad doesn't have to know that the stylish new hat that replaced his dorky, old baseball cap is really a gift for you, too.David & Young Fedora, from $24, shopdavidandyoung.com Pocket Knife Money Clip Who can resist this handy two-in-one money holder.5-in-1 Money Clip, $4.99, s1restorationhardware.com Grilling Spices Help the grill master take his BBQ game to the next level with a set of flavored spices.The Ultimate Grilling Rub Selection, $27.95, s1williams-sonoma.com Portable Ping Pong He'll totally love this portable ping-pong set, but the real gift is the excuse to bond with his fave daughter!Portable Ping-Pong Set, $39.95, uncommongoods.com Portable Charger If dad's always running out juice, he'll love this compact on-the-go charger that he can pack in his briefcase, carry-on, glove compartment, or even pocket. GoGo Juice Powerbank Portable Charger, $39.99, bedbathandbeyond.com Chocolate Golf Balls Feed dad's sweet tooth and links love with cute golf ball-shaped chocolates.Edward Marc Chocolatier Chocolate Golf Balls, $6, EdwardMarc.com Monogrammed Luggage Tag If dad's always traveling for work, make it easy for him to spot his suitcase with personalized luggage tags.Pottery Barn Monogram Luggage Tags, $10, s1potterybarn.com Fitness Tracker Help dad stay active this summer and make the most of his workouts with this sleek fitness tracker.Fitbit Flex Wireless Wristband, $99.95, sportchalet.com Bow Tie Help dad channel his inner prepster with a cute bow tie he'll be psyched to rock to summer parties.Alton Brown x Hook+ALBERT Sweet and Sour Bow Tie, $65, hookandalbert.com Cool Headphones Score serious brownie points with a pair of souped-up headphones for listening to the game or his fave tracks at the pool or beach, or on the train to work. Urban Ears Humlan Headphones, $49, urbanears.com Plaid Shirt Upgrade dad's fave BBQ attire with a new (and slightly cooler!) button-down.Kiel James Patrick Lost Legends Shirt, $98, kjp.com Personalized Grilling Gear A true grill master needs his very own set of tools. Say hello to a summer filled with barbecues!#1 Dad Grill-A-Tongs, $42.99, personalcreations.com Wireless Electronics Remote If your dad loves his gadgets, this genius wireless remote will be a major hit. It plugs into an outlet, and let's you turn on electronics lamps, the TV, a stereo with an app on your iPhone!Belkin® WeMo Switch/Wireless Home Actuator, $49.99, radioshack.com Personalized Cufflinks Looking for a super nice gift from the whole fam? Help pops look extra snazzy with monogrammed cufflinks.Customizable Sterling Silver Cufflinks, from $125, auburn-jewelry.com Glow-In-The-Dark Football If dad still loves to toss the football around the yard, this glow-in-the-dark version is perf for warm summer nights!TOZZGlow Football, $18.99, amazon.com Selfie-Snapping Remote This selfie-snapping remote syncs with your phone so dad can actually get in the family pic this year!HISY Bluetooth Shutter Remote, $24.99, hisypix.com Customized Tie Bars Give dad a reminder of how special he is each each morning with a special tie bar personalized with anything from his initials to a well-earned title, like "World's Greatest Dad."Short Stainless Steel Tie Bar, $25 (+$8 to customize), cufflinks.com Darth Vader Socks If your dad's a total Star Wars nerd, he's probably already got all the DVDs. When it comes to commemorative memorabilia, these Darth Vader socks are one of the least embarassing ways to help dad pay tribute to his fave movie without seriously embarassing you.Darth Vader Socks, $24.25, brookstone.com | 4 | 1,013 | lifestyle |
The perfect gift is one that he'll use every day, so opt for luxurious takes on masculine classics. From customized headphones for his commute to a sleek new smart-phone case for, well, every single minute, his day-to-day is about to get an upgrade. The best part? He'll think about you every time he uses them (a.k.a. all the time)! Watch Stainless band with woodgrain face, Nixon, $250; nixon.com Printed Sock Cotton-blend, Paul Smith, $75 for pack of three; mrporter.com Customizable Headphones Skullcandy, $179; skullcandy.com Striped Belt Cotton blend, Marc by Marc Jacobs, $100; mrporter.com Owl Letter Opener Brass, Jonathan Adler, $98; jonathanadler.com iPhone Case Leather, J.Crew, $25; jcrew.com Plaid Tie and Pocket Round Woven wool, Alexander Olch, $150 (tie), $60 (pocket round); mrporter.com Printed Robe with Carrier Wool, Pendleton, $315; scoopnyc.com Skull Printed Mug and Saucer Porcelain, Zara, $15; zara.com Ski Goggles Gold polyurethane with elastic web, Gucci, $195; solsticesunglasses.com for stores Monogrammed iPad Case Canvas, Lands' End, $30; landsend.com | 4 | 1,014 | lifestyle |
Show your mom how much you love her by giving her the best gift ever! There's something here for every mom! {none} The Little Black Book of SudokuKeep your mom's brain busy with this extreme sudoku book. If anything, maybe this gift will keep her so distracted she'll forget about you missing curfew once, or twice. (barnesandnoble.com, $14.95) {none} Gaiam Dragonfly Hydrangea Yoga Mat Is your mom always running off to yoga or Pilates class? Keep her styling even while working out with this cute pink hydrangea yoga mat. (gaiam.com, $21.98) {none} Nordstrom "Citrus Poppy" Potpourri Vase Get your mom something that smells as good as her cooking! This citrus-poppy scented potpourri smells delicious and comes in a pretty glass vase that she can keep forever. (nordstrom.com, $28) {none} Crabtree & Evelyn Revitalizing Candle Help mom relax after a hard day with this pretty aromatic candle. The scent — lemon and spearmint with sweet orange, clove, and pettigrain — will make her feel totally revived and energized! And then maybe she'll have enough energy to take you to the mall. (crabtree-evelyn.com, $29.50) {none} east5th Plaid Wrap from JCPenney Protect mom from the harsh winter weather in this tartan-chic wrap. She'll think of you every time it keeps her warm! (jcpenney.com, $34.99) {none} Posh CrosswordsNo, these crosswords aren't about Victoria Beckham — the title is referring to the totally classy cover! Show your mom she's got beauty and brains with this pretty puzzle book. (barnesandnoble.com, $9.99) {none} Cindy Crawford Throw Blanket from JC Penney Love snuggling up with your mom while watching Dancing with the Stars? Get her one of these comfy and cute blankets, and then hop on the couch for a night in together! (jcpenney.com, $29.99) {none} Avery Earrings from Shabby Apple Help mom do good and look good with these chic gold and black stone drop earrings from Shabby Apple. Five percent of sales go to help women in India get microloans to help them escape poverty. Now that's shopping for a good cause! (shabbyapple.com, $35) {none} Earthlust Water Bottle Keep Mom hydrated on the go with one of these super-cute limited-edition water bottles. They're stainless steel so they won't break, even if your little bro throws it across the room, and they're totally good for the environment, which is a major plus if your mom's a "green" lady! (earthlust.com, $16-$23) {none} Susyjack* Contemporary Paper 2010 Deluxe Wall Calendar Help your mom keep track of her busy schedule with this pretty, eco-friendly wall calendar! It's time she graduates to something cooler than the free one from the bank. (susyjack.com, $34) {none} Pocket Scrabble Does Mom always kick your butt at Scrabble? Help her continually perfect her word mastery with this on-the-go touch-screen Scrabble game! In case you were wondering, yes "aa" is a real word — it's a type of lava. (hasbro.com, $19.99) {none} Salon Wish Gift Certificate Treat your mom to a spa day with this universal gift certificate — it's accepted at over 4,000 salons and spas in the US and Canada! She can use it for whatever she wants: hair styling, mani-pedi, massage, facial…and hey, why not make it a mother-daughter spa day? (salonwish.com, $25-$500) {none} O, The Oprah Magazine CookbookGive your foodie mom the ultimate gift — 175 recipes collected from Oprah's magazine! Whether she's looking to entertain with apps, a five-course meal, or dessert for the whole fam, your mom's bound to find the recipe she's searching for in here! (barnesandnoble.com, $29.95) {none} Bond No. 9 Soaps These fancy scented soaps are totally cute and smell amazing! (saksfifthavenue.com, $95 for set of 4 or $35 each) {none} Redbook Subscription You get all of your awesome beauty, fashion, and guy advice from us, but where does your mom get it? Hook her up with a subscription to Redbook so she can be as filled in as you are! (redbookmag.com, $8) {none} O, The Oprah Magazine Subscription If your mom always makes sure to be home by 4 p.m. so she can watch Oprah, she'll definitely love O, The Oprah Magazine. Don't we all need just a little bit more Oprah in our lives? (oprah.com/omagazine, $18) | 4 | 1,015 | lifestyle |
Sure, your mom's awesome, but what about all the TV moms you feel like you know IRL? This Mother's Day we're also giving props to some of television's most ah-mazing moms. {none} Ella Montgomery from Pretty Little LiarsThose Rosewood moms usually get caught up in ALL the "A" drama. But Ella? She's pretty normal. She can be found chilling at the coffee shop with her new BF or spending quality time with Aria and Mike. Even though she doesn't always agree with their choices, she's always there for her kids. {none} Steph & Lena from The FostersWith Steph and Lena, you get two amazing moms in one Foster family! They love their foster and adopted children as if they were their own and are their advocates no matter what trouble they get into. {none} Claire Dunphy from Modern FamilyClaire gives her kids the freedom to make mistakes and herself the freedom to teach them life lessons with a healthy does of hilarity. Her super-dorky mom moments are the kind you'd secretly love being annoyed by. {none} Nona from Sam and CatGrandmas can be just as awesome as moms, and Nona from Sam and Cat is like a mom to Cat! Though Nona keeps her new social life at Elderly Acres hopping, she proves time and time again that she's always be there for her granddaughter, and is a huge supporter of her babysitting business with Sam. Whether she's helping them expose an illegal toddler climbing game or giving them advice on how to be good friends to one another, Nona always helps the girls when they need it. p1MORE: Jennette McCurdy's Weekly Guide To Life {none} Mel from Melissa & JoeyWhile she's technically an aunt, Mel swooped in after her sister had to go to jail (eek!) to take care of her niece and nephew. She proves that being a mom doesn't just come from giving birth as she gets Lennox and Ryder through a tough time in her own lovably wacky way. {none} Theresa Russo from Wizards of Waverly Place When you've got three kids who are wizards, things are bound to get messy, and mom Theresa saves the day every time. Even though she doesn't technically have powers, she fixes everything...magically. {none} Christina Ross from JessieSupermodel-turned-business-mogul mom Christina Ross gets the job done. Though she enlisted the help of a full-time nanny, Jessie, to help take care of her family, Christina still does it all, killing it at work while always making time for her kids. She's fun, positive, and even acts like a mom to Jessie when she needs it! {none} Lily Aldrin from How I Met Your MotherEven before Lily had kids, she was mom material, taking care of her group of friends and the kindergarten kids she cared for at work. She's super fair and would dish out the same punishment to her goofball friends that she would to her own child or students! {none} Mary Cooper from Big Bang TheoryMary may coddle Sheldon a bit excessively, but she always takes his quirks in stride and loves him for exactly who he is! | 4 | 1,016 | lifestyle |
Want to get that cutie at the pool to notice you stat? Real teens reveal the best tricks for snagging your summer crush. Throw a pool party "Invite some friends over for a swim, including your crush. Organize a few pool games (old-school chicken fights are a must!) and orchestrate it so you're always on the same team one flirty splash and he's all yours." Tony, 21 Challenge him to an arcade game "Take his love for video games outside! Local arcades are super fun and when girls think they can beat us at the one thing we know best, it's really cute. We secretly love hunting you down in laser tag." Joey, 20 Plan a shopping trip "The best part of a summer beach day is the preparation! Before meeting up with your friends, take your crush to the dollar store or a cheap party store. Picking out different sand toys or playing with water guns in the aisles is a blast and will totally get him to open up. Best part? You two will have a blast showing your friends what you bought!" Lauren, 20 Take a fake-cation! "Some hotels will let you have a poolside lunch at their restaurant, even if you're not staying there. Take advantage of the hot tub and dessert menus! It's the perfect getaway for you and your crush, without the crazy price tag." Greg, 21 Plan a day at an amusement park "Get a big group together and hit up the boardwalk, carnival, or amusement park, so it seems casual and fun. But break away from the group for a few minutes by pretending you're afraid to go on a ride alone your crush will love playing the protector role!" Luke, 18 Treat him! "Be spontaneous! On a hot summer day, slip your crush a note to meet you in 15 minutes for ice cream. It sends a big message, and nothing's flirtier than sharing a sweet treat!" Katie, 19 Take your date off-land "Go on a water date! If you live near the ocean or a lake, try renting Jetski's for an hour. Can't afford two? Share one! It's the best excuse to get closer and you'll have so much fun." Sierra, 20 Steal a scene "Ask a guy to a movie he'll love this summer, like "After Earth," "The Internship," or "Man Of Steel." There's nothing's more flirtatious to me than a few moments of lingering eye contact when you both reach for the popcorn! " Tony, 21 Start a water balloon fight! "Hit up the park with a group of friends; arm everyone with water balloons, and then go crazy! Since everyone will be wet anyway, jump in the pool afterwards to keep the flirty fun going!" Justin, 17 Try something sporty "Show off your sporty side by inviting him to the batting cages to practice your swing. It's OK if you're not very good, he'll love teaching you and showing off his skills." Chris, 20 Challenge him "Challenge a guy to take part in a 5K or obstacle course challenge (Tough Mudder or Color Run, anyone?!) with you this summer! It's a fun way to show off your athletic side and nothing gets a guy's attention more than an athletic girl!" Jacob, 21 Do what he's interested in "Find out what he's interested in and make it more interactive! If he loves cars, take him to an outdoor go-kart track. You go so fast that you'll both walk out smiling and he'll love that you thought of his interests too." Josh, 21 Challenge him to a game Dare the guy you've been eyeing at the beach or pool to show you what he's got on the volleyball court! Challenge him to a fun game loser buys ice cream!" Haley, 17 Take a spin "Text your crush saying you're picking him up for an impromptu ride around town in five minutes with the music blaring and the windows (or top!) down. Don't get fancy with planning, just enjoy the warm weather and some awesome tunes!" Luke, 20 Go hiking "Summer is the best time for being active with a guy! Invite him to go hiking with you you can take in the natural beauty of the area, while simultaneously checking each other out!" Sarah, 16 Surprise him with concert tickets "Buy your crush a ticket to an awesome summer concert. It's a great way to show off your musical knowledge, and swaying in unison during a killer song is a good, sneaky way to get close." Tim, 21 Cycle on over! "Ride your bike right on up to a guy and chat him up. He'll love your boldness, and probably won't forget an impromptu conversation that started on two wheels!" Tony, 21 Plan a dinner trip "Late night diner trip! Grab a group of friends and run to a 24 hour diner. The fun and spontaneous aspect of it will make for a lasting memory. Plus, there's no better way to your crush's heart than through his stomach!" Billy, 20 Have a picnic "Invite him to lunch and then surprise him by taking him on a picnic! Pack some delish sandwiches and make an afternoon of lounging, chatting, and snacking!" Kristin, 21 Sweeten up a sunset "Ask him to catch a sunset with you at the beach. Cap off the evening with a bonfire, some s'mores, and star gazing. Feeling extra creative? Borrow an astronomy book from the library and see how many constellations you two can find!" Jonci, 21 Ask him to help with your sunscreen "Be bold! Saunter over to your crush and ask him to help you apply sunscreen in those hard-to-reach spots. This is exactly what dudes mean when they say, 'confidence is sexy.'" Kate, 19 | 4 | 1,017 | lifestyle |
Famed event-planner David Stark shared tips for making chic holiday decorations using items you already have around the house. Take a look! Create a Candy Bar Who doesn't love candy? Stark suggests creating an impromptu "candy store" on an entry or side table with lidded apothecary jars in various sizes. Fill them with colorful taffy, chocolates and gummies, and put scoops and small baggies on the table. "When guests drop by, they can take a sweet reminder of their visit on the road with them," Stark says. Candy has a long shelf life (especially individually wrapped kinds), so you can enjoy the look all season long. Leave Some Ornaments off the Tree If you're having a dinner party, keep the table decorations simple. Stark suggests using your favorite holiday ornaments as napkin adornments. "Tie them to a cinched napkin at each place setting," he says. "Vary the ornaments for a more informal gathering or keep them uniform for a dressier look." Use Ribbon Scraps to Update Candles Customize plain pillar candles with colorful ribbon trims wrapped around their bases. "Pin the ribbon directly into the candle with small stick pins or use a decorative pin to add further flair," Stark says. "From classic holiday motifs to tartan plaids and velvets, you can change from day to day in the same way you change your outfit!" Wrap Gifts Early Use holiday gifts you will be giving this season as décor in your home before you give them. "Don't hide them in the closet or under a bed to get them out of the way," Stark says. "Make them beautiful, and enjoy them yourself for as long as you can." Choose a coordinated group of papers, bows, and adornments that look great in your home, and stack them throughout your house on side tables. Don't Forget the Bathroom! Stark likes to write holiday greetings like "Ho! Ho! Ho!" or "I'm so glad you're here!" with a dry erase marker on the bathroom mirror. Or you can channel your inner-artist and draw a Christmas tree or menorah. "It's a fun way to add a little humor and surprise to your home," Stark says. "And after, a damp rag wipes it all away!" Use Up Glitter From a School Project Search your home for clear, decorative canisters. If you don't have any handy, invest in a few (like this set of 3 at crateandbarrel.com for $59.95) because they won't go to waste. You can use them to store snacks in the kitchen or cotton balls in the bathroom during the rest of the year. For the holidays, Stark suggests filling them with confetti, glitter and sequins for a sparkly touch. "It creates a glimmering holiday tableau," he said. Have a Cake Stand Do Double Duty Head to your backyard to search for pine cones and acorns to fill a basic, domed clear cake stand. Follow Stark's easy instructions to make this unique and dramatic centerpiece:Hold the dome upside down by its handle with one hand.Fill the upside down dome with the pine cones and acorns to the brim.Take the base, turned upside down and cover your dome as if it was a lid.With both hands, quickly turn the whole set right side up so that the cake stand and lid sit as they were intended. | 4 | 1,018 | lifestyle |
Get inspired to get your own great, big, amazing, powerful life! Here are small steps you can take every day to take control of your life and go after your dreams! Get Inspo Delivered To Your Inbox You're more likely to be productive if you're happy, and Notes from the Universe sends e-mails full of empowering messages to your inbox every single day. It puts you in a good mood from the second you open your laptop, and helps motivate you to take on the world! BING: HOW TO BUILD CONFIDENCE Make A To Do List "You write it down, you make it happen!" Karlie Kloss If you start to feel out of control during a particularly busy month, making physical, handwritten checklists can help you stay on track. There's something crazy satisfying about crossing off a task with a big, black marker! Get Up Early Waking up before you really have to for school can feel like a total drag, but taking time in the morning to focus on you can get you way more pumped for day ahead. Start small, like making plans with a friend in your neighborhood to meet up early and take a walk around the block, before you commit to 5AM yoga classes. Try A New Lipstick If you hate it, you don't have to wear it ever again! Feel lucky that you're a girl dudes don't have anything like red lippy to give them that instant confidence boost. Go Quote-Crazy on Pinterest "When I get discouraged, inspiring quotes cheer me up. My favorite is from Audrey Hepburn: "Nothing is impossible; the world itself says 'I'm possible.'" Gabby Douglas It might sound a little corny, but those Pinterest boards really work. As long as you're pinning positive messages reading them will make you feel good about yourself. Express Yourself With Your Outfit "In school, I always felt a little different from my classmates I was never in the popular crowd. But I learned that I could express myself through my clothing and it was so empowering." Bonnie Barton (blogger, Flashes of Style) Develop your own unique sense of style, and people will start to remember your name. It can be anything from a cool pair of glasses to a distinct head-to-toe vibe just own it! Sweat "Playing tennis gets me really pumped up I'm really competitive! I love it because it's fun and makes you sweat." Harry Styles Joining a team sport in high school means an instant group of friends, plus you'll stay fit while doing something you love. Exercise has been proven to literally boost your mood instantly, so don't skip out on gym class, either! Carry A Notebook "I'm constantly drawing. I never know when I'll be inspired, so I try to keep a drawing pad with me." Zayn Malik Forgetting the amazing idea you came up with in math class is a total downer, so always keep a notebook handy to jot down your brilliance. You never know what could be the next big app! Embrace #UnprettyMonday "Makeup is fun, but it's way more important to feel good in your real skin." Jessie J Playing with makeup is a great way to boost your confidence temporarily, but owning your natural beauty is long-lasting! If you're comfortable in your own skin, you won't feel the need to pile on concealer just to feel pretty. Tons of stars have taken to posting makeup-free pics to IG and Twitter on Mondays! Spritz On Your Fave Perfume "Smelling good is so important! When you have a signature scent, it can make you unforgettable!" Rita Ora It's true having your own, unique fragrance helps people remember you and makes you feel special. Instead of picking up the same One Direction perfume everyone's wearing, try a company like Demeter, which lets you mix and match a few scents to create your own custom fragrance. Stand Up Straight Believe it or not, your posture totally affects other people's impressions of you! Ditching the slouch not only makes you look more powerful to others, it will instantly make you feel more confident. Plus, having correct posture can affect your health too: if your spine isn't aligned, you can end up with serious back, rib, heart, and lung problems in the future. Check Your TimeHop TimeHop is an awesome app that shows every morning what you posted on social media exactly one year ago. Whether you use it for reliving fun, old memories or for reminding yourself how far you've come in a year, a look back today will give you a big confidence boost when you remember how far you've come in 365 days. Try A New Recipe "I actually find most of my power in creating things. My dad was a really big chef in our family. I noticed I feel best when I am physically creating something, putting it out to the universe, even if it's just to end up in my stomach in 10 minutes." Dove Cameron You don't have to be a crazy gourmet cook even something as little as adding some tomato and basil to your grilled cheese can make you feel like a Top Chef contender. It gets your creativity flowing, plus allows you to create healthier meals for yourself for more energy. Start A Vlog Even if you don't have tons of viewers, putting your thoughts out there on the Internet is totally empowering! It shows that you don't care what anyone thinks you're proud of your ideas and dreams. Study It sounds super lame, but you'll always feel more powerful if you're ready for what's ahead! Set aside the time it'll take to prep for your next quiz or interview. Spend 10 Minutes On DuoLingo DuoLingo is a fantastic app that teaches you languages with fun quiz games! You can choose to have a "coach" that reminds you to put in at least 10 minutes each day. Having more than one language on your resume looks impressive to potential employers, and could come in handy with that hot foreign exchange student! Raise Your Hand Stop being scared to participate in class! Trust that you're smart and have good ideas that are worth sharing. Wear Your "Power Color" You're not imagining that boost of confidence you get when you put on a top in your favorite shade! Colors can affect our mood, and chances are you've noticed you get more compliments when you're wearing certain hues. Whether it's a bright red, a cheery yellow, or even chic black, stock up on clothes and accessories in that shade to throw on any time you need a little power boost. Meditate No need to break into a full-out yoga sesh in class, but if you're starting to feel stressed, excuse yourself to the restroom and enjoy a few moments of quiet. Focusing on your breath will clear your head, and get you ready to tackle even the toughest history test with ease. Start A Book Club Reading makes you smarter and improves your vocabulary, so you'll feel more confident giving presentations and writing papers in the future. Having a group of friends all reading the same book motivates you to stay on track! Dress Up A Little "Putting on a great dress is one way to make yourself feel powerful. There's this special feeling I call it your armor. You put on a great dress and you feel like you can take on anything." Jenny Fleiss, co-founder of Rent The Runway We're not saying you have to wear heels to class, but it's hard to feel powerful in the same old sweatpants and UGGs. Instead, invest in comfy midi skirts or dark jeans that look cute without seeming like you're trying too hard. Look hot, feel hot! Try A Topknot Stop hiding behind your hair! Topknots are power styles, because they put your gorgeous mug at the center of attention and force you to smile Be A Coach Whether you sign up to teach 5 year olds how to play soccer or volunteer for an after-school tutoring program, helping someone else learn helps both you and someone else feel better about themselves. These kids will look up to you talk about a major boost of self-esteem! Write Your Oscar Acceptance Speech Or your Hall of Fame Speech, or your Nobel Prize Speech. Having huge goals to aspire to helps motivate you in your day to day life, since you'll stop wasting time doing things that don't get you closer to that dream. Start A Dream Diary Writing down your dreams helps you remember them, which sparks creativity and can ultimately fuel awesome ideas. How cool is it that all that crazy stuff is living in your brain? Redo Your Mani Chip-free nails will make you feel more put together, which helps with confidence if you have an important interview or big presentation that day. Say "Hi" To One New Person It's totally terrifying to break out of your clique in high school, but expanding your circle of friends can be beneficial not just for Friday night plans, but for your future as well. Making a serious effort to get to know someone new makes them feel special so they'll want to help you out if you're running for class president or need a last-minute prom date plus, you'll be practicing your networking skills for when you start interning in college. Eat Breakfast Don't doubt the power of your morning meal! It's tempting to hit the snooze button a few extra times then run out the door empty-stomach'd, but you're not doing yourself any favors. Take 5 minutes to scarf down a bagel at least, and you'll be surprised how much more focused you are in your morning classes. Play the Wikipedia Game It started as a silly game to play with friends on the computer, but now it's an official app! You try to go from one article to another article (like "boats" to "George Washington") just by clicking on links within the pages in as few clicks as possible. Not only is it fun, you'll stumble across crazy interesting articles and learn more without even trying! Catch Up With Your BFF For 5 Minutes Whether you meet up for lunch or just make sure to spend some time texting after school, chatting with someone you care about will instantly make you feel validated and cheerful. Rant, rave, dish on the cute new kid it doesn't matter what you talk about, as long as you know you can count on each other. Rock Some Statement Jewels Adding a little sparkle to your every day look makes you feel special! Even though statement necklaces seem super fancy, they actually look great even with a t-shirt and jeans, so you don't have to change your style too much to get in on the trend. Take A Green Tea Break Unlike espresso drinks, it won't make you feel jittery, and the crash from the caffeine wearing off isn't nearly as intense, so you stay perky and ready to take on anything way longer. Make Weekend Plans During the week, school pretty much runs your life, so make sure you have something to look forward too on the weekends even if it's just a Pretty Little Liars marathon from your bed. If you have something exciting coming up, you'll be in a better mood all week, and annoying assignments won't feel as stressful! Practice Sounding More Professional If you've taken a drama class, you've probably heard of this trick for auditions. Americans (especially girls) tend to sound like they're asking a question all the time, which can make you seem unsure about your awesome ideas. Practice saying, "Hi, my name is _____." Without letting your voice go up at the end! You'll feel like your words have more meaning, and you'll be shocked how much more seriously everyone takes you. | 4 | 1,019 | lifestyle |
As if the futuristic-looking 2014 BMW i8 wasn't already unique enough, an even more special version will be hitting the auction block at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance next month. Aptly named the i8 Concours d'Elegance Edition, the special sports car will be unlike any other i8 in the entire world. The one-of-a-kind i8's exterior is painted in BMW Individual Frozen Grey Metallic, while the cabin is defined by Dalbergia Brown leather upholstery which BMW says takes its color from dye derived by plant extracts. BMW i Blue stitching adds contrast, as well as several other trim accents that come as part of the Pure Impulse Tera World interior. Other unique appointments in the cabin include headrests embossed with the i8 logo and laser-etched words that read "Concours d'Elegance," which serve as a reminder at just how special the i8 is. If that's not enough to set the i8 apart, perhaps the the laser headlights will, since this i8 is the first to boast the technology, which is still pending government approval. An i8 display key and the first professional edition BMW Charging Station also come as part of the special treatment. All else remains the same underneath the hood. The i8 is powered by a mid-mounted 231-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter I-3 powering the rear wheels (via a six-speed automatic) and a 131-hp electric motor powering the front wheels (via a two-speed transmission) for a combined system output of 362 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. The 2014 BMW i8 already goes for $136,625 , so you can only imagine how much the Concours d-Elegance edition will fetch when it goes under the hammer at the upcoming Pebble Beach show in August. Proceeds will go to the Pebble Beach Company Foundation and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Source : BMW | 9 | 1,020 | autos |
Got yourself a Porsche Carrera, GT2, GT3, Carrera 4S or Turbo from 1997-2004? Those were the years of the 996, which marked a change from air-cooled to water-cooled. It was also the point at which Porsche essentially canned the round headlights and flared fenders. By all accounts, the 996 was an incredible machine... but what about Porsche tradition? Well, if one can get around the whole air-cooled thing, hot-shoe tuners Hamann have got a package they'd like to show you. The tuning shop uses original Porsche parts in combination with their own to convert the 996 to a 997, sans the cost of going out and buying a brand new Porsche. On top of the conversion, HAMANN added wing doors, a cool body kit, and performance components to round out the upgrade. The result is a slick looking 997 with 620 bhp and a top speed of 217 mph. | 9 | 1,021 | autos |
TUESDAY, July 29, 2014 (HealthDay News) -- Exercise, a healthy diet and good sleep can protect the body against the negative effects of stress and slow down the aging process at a cellular level, researchers report. A study involving hundreds of older women found that stressful events are linked to increased shortening of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that affect how quickly cells age. "We found that over a one-year period, the more stressors a woman had, the more their telomeres were likely to shorten," said lead author Eli Puterman, assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. But women who maintained active lifestyles, ate right and slept well appeared to shrug off the effects of stress, with their telomeres showing no significant additional shortening, the researchers said. Dr. Michael Speicher, professor and chairman of the Institute of Human Genetics at the Medical University of Graz in Austria, said the study "addresses a really important biological question: why a healthy lifestyle is really helpful, especially if you are exposed to stressors." "The hopeful message is if you engage in these healthy behaviors, you can decrease some effects that stress can have on your body," he said. Telomeres are like the plastic tips on the ends of shoelaces that keep the laces from unraveling. Composed of DNA and protein, they protect the ends of chromosomes and keep them from unraveling. As telomeres become shorter and their structural integrity weakens, cells age and die faster. This sort of cellular aging has been associated with age-related illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease and cancer. One theory holds older people are more prone to develop cancer because their shortened telomeres have made their chromosomes unstable and likely to malfunction, said Speicher, who wasn't involved in the new study. Telomeres naturally grow shorter with age, but unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, poor diet and too little sleep can cause them to shorten sooner, Puterman said. Chronic emotional stress also has been linked to shorter telomeres. To see whether a healthy lifestyle can combat the effects of stress, researchers followed 239 post-menopausal, nonsmoking women for one year. The findings are published July 29 in the journal Molecular Psychiatry . The women provided blood samples at the beginning and the end of the year for telomere measurement. They underwent periodic reviews of their physical activity, diet and sleep. At the end, the women also reported on stressful events that occurred during the year. Researchers focused on truly stressful life events, such as becoming a caregiver to a sick relative, losing a house or a job, or having someone dear to them die, Puterman said. The researchers found that these major stress events caused a significantly greater decline in telomere lengths for women who halfheartedly engaged in healthy behaviors. But the same levels of stress caused no greater shortening in the telomeres of women who stayed active, ate healthily and slept well. The study shows the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle during challenging periods in your life, Puterman and Speicher said. "If we are in stressful situations, physical activity, sleep and nutrition are of really great importance to keep our bodies in shape and stay healthy," Speicher said. "With this study we see it on the genetic level now." The study also adds to our understanding of how healthy living affects the aging process, Puterman said. "The same type of person who eats well and still exercises is the same sort of person who isn't aging much," he said. "As we get deeper and deeper into the cell, we're getting more information about why and what's happening at the genetic level." The study doesn't actually prove a cause-and-effect relationship between healthy habits and longer telomeres, however. The next step will be randomized trials to see whether exercise can be used to slow cellular aging for people facing ongoing life stress, such as those serving as caregivers to Alzheimer's patients. "We're going to look to see whether we can shift their aging processes within their cells, as well as depression levels and stress levels and that sort of thing," Puterman said. Although the study was limited to women, both experts said it would make sense that the findings would apply to men. Speicher went further: "There are several studies out there claiming men on average have shorter telomeres than women," he said. "One could suppose that the effects on men would be even greater than on women, but that's just a theory." More information For more on telomeres, visit the University of Utah . | 7 | 1,022 | health |
Home sweet home: These haute hostess pieces will be a hit with any tastemaker on your list, and are great to bring as thank-you presents to parties, too. {none} Jonathan Adler Playing Cards Poker night just got prettier. $68 for two decks, jonathanadler.com. {none} Verdura Pencil Sharpener Even the most mundane tasks take on a touch of elegance, with the right tools. $175. 212-758-3388. {none} Dransfield & Ross Coasters Koi coasters brighten up any side table. $65 for four. Bergdorf Goodman; 212-753-7300. {none} La Cucina Cookbook This kitchen gem, by the Italian Academy of Cuisine, is the essential source for Italian cooking, with more than 1,000 authentic recipes. $45. Rizzoli, NYC; 800-52-BOOKS. {none} Château d'Estoublon Olive Oil Make every bread and salad course memorable. $95. Berdorf Goodman; 212-753-7300. {none} Jean Rouget Notecards Fine French stationery ensures that you'll look super-stylish when you decide to send notes the old-fashioned way. $24.95 for 25 at arboronstate.com. {none} Edwina Hunt Eggs Carved wooden objects with a silver base. $220-$340. edwinahunt.com. {none} Ercuis Place-Card Holder Chic little owl place card holders. What a hoot. $135. Bloomingdale's, NYC; 212-705-2000, or lcrcollection.com. {none} Belvedere Vodka For super-premium cocktails, with a shiny bottle to boot. Silver vodka, $35. Sherry-Lehmann, NYC; 212-838-7500. {none} Jayson Home & Garden Absinthe Spoons The ultimate in indulgent bar accessories. $18 each, jaysonhomeandgarden.com. {none} Wine Decanter A simple, sleek decanter for the oenophile in your life. $29.99 at jcpenney.com. {none} Stainless Steel Water Bottles Eco-chic: They don't just look environmentally friendly — they really are. $18-$23, abchome.com. {none} Sapling Flatware Bring a touch of outside in. $12-$14, jaysonhomeandgarden.com. {none} Noble Morn Glasses Dainty fleur-de-lis juice glasses make the morning after last night's party look so much better. $6 each, anthropologie.com. {none} Silver Dollar Waffle Pan Diminutive breakfast goodies: always a winner. $29.99 at jcpenney.com. {none} Brown Betty Teapot A design classic. $32 at conranusa.com. {none} Salt Cellar Serve up kosher or gourmet salts in style. $4.95, crateandbarrel.com. {none} Spice Rack Forty of her favorite herbs and spices in a sleek rack worthy of any experimental chef. $165 at deandeluca.com. {none} Modern Cream and Sugar Set Modern Finnish design suitable for daily use (dishwasher safe!). Tea and coffee will be stylishly presented with cream in the 15-ounce pitcher and sugar and lemon wedges in the smaller bowls up top. From $74.90 at amazon.com. {none} Cheeky Place Cards These humorous placecards will get any party going with tongue-in-cheek suggestions like "playing footsie is encouraged." $15 for 12 at crane.com. {none} French Interiors: The Art of Elegance An intimate look into nine of France's most exclusive estates, including that of the late Yves Saint Laurent. $63.75 at barnesnandnoble.com. {none} Serving Stand Serve up appetizers or desserts on this vintage-inspired two-tiered stand. $49.99 at jcpenney.com. {none} Taper Candles Pure beeswax all-natural candles to cast a glow over her perfectly set dinner table. $44.95 for a set of 6 at greendepot.com. {none} Candelabra ...And the perfect crystal candelabra to put them in. $85 at jamaligarden.com. {none} Alfred Hitchcock: The Masterpiece Collection Something to get her heartbeat racing on chilly winter nights at home. $93.99 at amazon.com. {none} Tortoise Glass Ice Bucket Bring out her animal instincts with this eye-catching bar topper. $125 from mecoxgardens.com. {none} Vivre Agate Coasters Set of four Brazilian agate coasters — each varies in color and shading for a truly unique set. $60 at vivre.com | 4 | 1,023 | lifestyle |
Bright and fun, yet quite sophisticated. You just might want to steal one for the living room! Pearl Hand-tufted wool, 4' x 6', $600, in Pink. shivhon.com.Video: 2-minute design tips -- Floors SFK353A Hand-tufted wool, 5' x 8', $440, in Red/Blue/Beige. safavieh.com.Bing: Playful rugs Owl Hand-knotted wool, 6' x 9', $5,508. therugcompany.com.Video: 2-minute home décor -- Signature style Barnslig Ringdans Machine-woven nylon, 4'4" square, $30, in Green. ikea.com.Bing: More IKEA rugs Garland Hand-tufted wool, 5' x 8', $550. dwellstudio.com. Mayan Flat-woven cotton, 5' x 7', $395, in Lilac. serenaandlily.com. Dara's Deco Soumac flat-woven wool, 6' x 9', $3,510. nibarugs.com. Mums Stripe Flat-woven cotton, 4' x 6', $104. dashandalbert.com. Tivoli Trellis Flat-woven wool, 8' x 10', $749, in Thistle. rhbabyandchild.com. | 4 | 1,024 | lifestyle |
Even if you're a frequent traveler, packing remains a daunting task especially for those with an extensive wardrobe. Once you've managed to edit down your selection, you still have to make it all fit. So, we rounded up some of the essential packing tricks that any stylish girl on the go should heed from traveling with ornate garments to storing your dainty jewelry. Plus, read Nasiba Adilova's jet-setter packing strategy. Hack #1: Your shoes should be the first to go in your suitcase. Line them up along the bottom in heel-to-toe arrangements. BING: HOW TO PACK LIGHT Hack #2: Cover your footwear with plastic shower caps to keep the dirty bottoms from making contact with your clothes. Hack #3: Stuff your handbags with your delicates to save a little extra space and help your bags keep their shape. Hack #5: Place any embellished garments or anything you're worried about getting snagged or snagging other items in a plastic slip or garment bag without a hanger. Hack #5: Traveling for business? Turn your blazers inside out and roll before packing to keep them wrinkle free and ready to wear. Hack #6: Keep your earrings paired together by hooking them through a single button. Hack #7: Store rings and delicate necklaces in pill boxes this will also keep everything from tangling together. Hack #8: Tuck your flat iron, curling iron or any other hot tools in pot holders. Hack #9: Don't risk getting nicked. Cover your razors with a binder clip for safe keeping. | 4 | 1,025 | lifestyle |
Think of it as a piece of furniture if you ever move, you can take it with you. And it doesn't have to perfectly match your cabinets. Turned leg This turned leg beauty is fabricated in California and can be ordered in custom sizes and colors. Painted white oak and Carrara marble, 42" W x 42" D x 36" H, $11,370. marchsf.com. Newland A practical worktable that manages to be elegant, too. Ash wood and Carrara marble, 65½" W x 34" D x 36½" H, $6,000, by Thomas O'Brien. hickorychair.com.Video: Kitchen storage under $25 Hamilton A substantial design with plenty of character it will only look better with age. Reclaimed pine and marble, 52" W x 30" D x 36" H, $1,899. potterybarn.com. Large butcher block A wooden surface ideal for chopping, while the leather pocket (sold separately) provides handsome storage for knives. End-grain maple, 32" DIA x 32" H,$2,450. minam.com. Abbey prep With generous width, this island is a natural gathering place. White oak and marble, 60" W x 24" D x 36" H, $3,795. jaysonhome.com. French chef Ideal for small spaces, this compact butcher block doesn't skimp on practicality or style: features include a bottom shelf for storage, a towel bar, and brass-accented corners. Stained wood and butcher block, 26¾" W x 17" D x 36" H, $695. williams-sonoma.com. French Adds a touch of Provençal chic to any kitchen. Cast steel and Carrara marble, 54½" W x 28" D x 36½" H, $999. crateandbarrel.com. Stainless steel & bronze A luxe mix of materials marble, reclaimed oak, stainless steel, and bronze make this a commanding kitchen centerpiece. Stainless steel, reclaimed oak, bronze, and marble, 46" W x 28" D x 36" H, $7,800. oldplank.com. Quovis Streamlined stainless steel is a sleek counterpoint to all-white cabinetry. Stainless steel, 42" W x 24" D x 36" H, $1,400. dwr.com. | 4 | 1,026 | lifestyle |
A faucet that doubles as a hand dryer, a tub that's also a sound system, and more high-tech products deliver way more than hot water. A programmable shower Personalize shower time with this tablet-like, full-color digital touch screen. You can program up to nine separate "scenarios." A thermostatic valve regulates water temperatures from up to four outlets (say, one overhead, one standard, and two wall streams).Video: Inexpensive bathroom makeoversThe setup can also adjust lighting, and volume levels from an audio device. If you tend to linger in the shower, pre-set it for a certain length of time and use the system to track your water consumption.Luxury Shower System, from $7,000. watermark-designs.com. A tub that's a sound system The system connects to Bluetooth-enabled devices so you can listen to music, news whatever through the tub. When the tub is empty, the room fills with sound. When full, sound vibrates through the water as you bathe. Comes programmed with four original compositions, including "Solitude" and "Transcendence."Underscore VibrAcoustic Bath, $1,056. kohler.com. Hidden cabinet speakers Hidden inside the cabinet, these small but powerful wireless speakers are water-resistant and calibrated to offset bath-friendly but sound-reflective materials such as tile, glass, and metal.Video: 8 doable DIY bathroom makeoversMirror Cabinets with Sound System, from $2,850. duravit.com. LED temperature control The LED light ring glows red or blue to indicate water temperature. The lever makes it easy to adjust pressure and temperature with one hand. Even the fluid shape looks ultramodern, and comes in super-cool matte powder-coat finishes, as well as polished chrome.Ametis Faucet, $3,528. graff-faucets.com. Total shower control The RainBrain lets you customize water stream (from spray to cascade), set hot and cold water alternation (good for circulation), and choose music (via Bluetooth-enabled phones and tablets). Plus, it can be pre-programmed for up to four users. A warm-up function flushes cold water from the system to reach the optimum temperature immediately. With the control knob, you can adjust the temperature manually and quickly turn the shower on and off.RainBrain Controller, $4,750. hansgrohe-usa.com. A faucet that's also a hand dryer Not only washes but dries your hands, too in about 15 seconds, using a 400 mph blast of air! Infrared sensors determine your hand position before water or air are dispensed, and a built-in HEPA filter removes bacteria from the air so it doesn't blow back onto your hands.Airblade Tap, $1,800. airblade.dyson.com. | 4 | 1,027 | lifestyle |
The outdoors aren't just for warmer months. Use these ideas for inspiration to transition your porch, patio, or backyard into autumn. Loggia Designers Parrish Chilcoat and Joe Lucas's client loves to entertain, so they set up the open-air loggia in a Hermosa Beach, California, house, with a fireplace, a flat-screen TV, and overhead heat lamps, "so he can use it all year." The loggia is furnished with a Provence love seat in synthetic wicker and St. Barts teak lounge chairs all from Restoration Hardware an Ikea Brommö deck chair, a white-painted African table from Berbere World Imports, and Brantley lanterns from Circa Lighting. Dock Designer Gil Schafer supplied the private dock of a rehabilitated 1939 Connecticut cottage with reclining chairs, lanterns, and large red towels. Outdoor dining room This is the kind of outdoor table that your family will linger at long after supper is over. The pendant fixture is great for when the days are getting shorter, and the cushions are welcoming for fall lunches, too. Designer Alex Papachristidis chose classic shapes and, rather than bright hues, neutral colors, which work well for fall in this outdoor dining room in Greenwich, Connecticut. Adjustable chandelier Designer Tobi Tobin completely revamped the backyard of her modern Hollywood Hills cottage. She used brick from an old patio for the new fireplace and created a terrace from sand mixed with granite. A candlelit chandelier can be raised and lowered by a rope pulley rigged to a tree. It casts a soft glow over Restoration Hardware's Gun Barrel Salvaged Wood dining table and all-weather wicker from World Market. Dark wood The covered porch of this traditional mountain home by architect Ruard Veltman has wood and metal furniture by Ruard Veltman Architecture and offers views of the North Carolina Appalachian mountains. Comfortable furniture There's no reason why outdoor furniture shouldn't be as comfortable as indoor furniture. In a Santa Monica, California, house designed by Michael S. Smith, the inviting daybeds on the upstairs balcony are from the Amalfi collection by Janus et Cie and are covered in outdoor fabric from Kravet.The starry print on two of the pillows is Smith's Star Atlantico in Ocean, from Jasper. Teak coffee table and side tables from Sutherland. Glass hurricane lamps from Home Art. Fire pit For her Connecticut property, designer Bonnie Edelman carefully crafted a fire pit."My parents always encouraged us: invest in your own property, not in country clubs," says her husband, John. "So till bedtime it's for s'mores and family bonding. After bedtime it's romantic." Designed with storage in mind, speakers are hidden in the walls of local stone, and logs are stacked under the benches. | 4 | 1,028 | lifestyle |
Unsure of what to get mom for Mother's Day this year? These unique, affordable finds will make her happy. Tea Towels With pretty patterns, these tea towels look more like scarves than kitchen accessories. Juhannustaika Tea Towel Set, $36. marimekko.com. Porcelain Box A fun, graphic dish to stash jewelry, cotton balls, or other small accessories. Red Carnaby Striped Stash Box, $28. jonathanadler.com. Birchbox This limited-edition Birchbox Home collection has seven mini gifts, such as jars of fruit preserves, Tocca handcreme, and a Baggu shopping tote. Birchbox Home: From the Garden, $32. birchbox.com. Pouch Organize odds-and-ends on the go with a pretty floral pouch. Floral Print Small Nylon Pouch, $28. cwonder.com. Perfume A rollerball version of Kate Spade's newest scent is great for moms on the go. Live Colorfully Eau De Parfum Rollerball, $24. katespade.com. Rechargeable Battery Toss this polka-dot backup battery in your purse, and you'll never have a dead phone. Printed Backup Battery for iPhone, $40. jcrew.com. Soap With such pretty packaging, this soap looks good and smells even better. Coriander Lavender Soap, $12. fresh.com. Tote A classic tote to bring to the beach or farmer's market. Market Basket, Double Handle, $42 at brookfarmgeneralstore.com. Poster Kari Herer's photos of magnolias, now printed on canvas. Klövsjö, $20. ikea.com. iPhone Case Forget the bouquet, get your mom flowers for her iPhone with this pretty case. Floral iPhone Case, for 4 and 4s iPhones, $24. anthropologie.com. | 4 | 1,029 | lifestyle |
This year, thank dad for a job well done by gifting him something he'll be proud to show off: hot new tech accessories Function at its Finest We love how this notebook has a 360-degree hinge that can easily transition from stand, to tent, to tablet mode...and chances are dad will too!HP Pavilion x360, starting at $400 at HP For the Speaker Seeker This portable and lightweight Bluetooth speaker is sure to meet even the most active dad's needs it's dust-proof, shock-proof and water-resistant. Bring it to the pool, on the boat, in the woods, or wherever!Turtle Shell Speaker by Outdoor Technology, $130 at The Grommet Charge it Up Perfect for the dad on the go, this portable charger comes in four different colors and can charge a variety of devices including cellphones, MP3 players, Bluetooth devices, and cameras.Instacharge Portable Charger, $70 at HSN Hot Dock Now dad can turn his iPhone into a proper alarm clock with this sleek bamboo dock. Note the streamlined design and light-colored wood that harken back to a time when things were a bit simpler.Zen Phone Dock, $35 at Sundance Keyboard of the Future This pocket-size device connects to dad's favorite phone or tablet via Bluetooth and projects a working keyboard of light onto any flat surface. The advanced optical tracking allows for freedom of typing while its compact size will quickly make it his favorite travel companion.Virtual Keyboard, $120 at Brookstone The Peak of Sleek We love the bold silhouette and sophisticated metallic finish on the sleek Pillar speaker. And with four rich finish options, there's one to match his style perfectly.The Stellé Audio Pillar, $350 at Stellé Audio Couture Plug it In Whether your dad travels for business or pleasure, this 4-in-1 adapter will keep him covered. Each plug is color coded to correspond with a specific country.4-in-1 Adapter, $25 at Flight 001 The Ultimate Headphones The ergonomic headband and pivoting ear cups on these chic foldable headphones will have dad looking forward to his next business trip. We especially love the in-line 3-button control and microphone which making changing the track or taking a phone call easier than ever.Hinge Headphones, $180 at Polk Audio Catch the Action Built extra tough to survive any terrain, this rugged video camera is the perfect companion for the adventurous dad. And with a mega rechargeable lithium-ion battery and digital stabilization capabilities, he'll never want to leave home without it.Garmin Virb Elite Action Camera, starting at $300 at Amazon Not His Ordinary Watch Don't be deceived, this analog wristwatch does more than just tell time. Now dad can access all of his smartphone alerts and notifications instantly without ever touching his phone. Simply download the free Martian Notifier App, and begin receiving notifications such as caller ID, texts, bank and calendar alerts, Facebook, and more.Martian Notifier Smartwatch, $129 at Bloomingdale's | 4 | 1,030 | lifestyle |
As the saying goes, "good things come in small packages" and these tiny treats slip right into your favorite person's stocking. Plus, see more holiday gift guides. A Touch of Tartan Rag & Bone gloves, $220, shopbop.com. Lingerie Drawer Stella McCartney underwear, $195, stellamccartney.com. Storage To Go Diane von Furstenberg USB key, $38 each, dvf.com. Making a List... Dwell Studio notebooks, $10 each, dwellstudio.com. Wrist Candy Alexander Wang wristlet, $250, barneys.com. Designer Scents Balenciaga L'essence Candle, $65, neimanmarcus.com. Fashion Soundtrack Bottega Veneta CD, $45, bottegaveneta.com. Personal Touch Sarah Chloe bangles, $98 each, sarahchloe.com. Kitschy Keychains Prada keychains, $195, available at select Prada stores, prada.com. Raising the Bar Ralph Lauren corkscrew, $95, ralphlaurenhome.com. Tech Crunch Tory Burch iPhone covers, $45 each, toryburch.com. Vanity Case Guerlain perfumed shimmer spray, $87, guerlain.com. Colorful Creams L'occitane creams, $12-28, loccitane.com. For the Artist Kico pencil set, $25, barneys.com. Pretty Pendants Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. necklaces, 800-526-0649. Animal Extras 3.1 Phillip Lim animal pins, $95 for a set of 3, shopbop.com. | 4 | 1,031 | lifestyle |
Whether you live in the quintessential studio apartment or want to get more out of a small room or tiny nook in your house, use these small space design ideas to help you decorate. Create zones Think about all the things you do in a space work, sleep, relax, eat and then establish separate zones for those activities. Subtle demarcations can help the space feel larger. You can evoke "rooms" with multiple seating areas, a tented or curtained bed, a window seat or built-in banquette, or even just a smartly placed table and chair. In this New York apartment, paint signals an entry.Design by David KaihoiMore from MSN Living: 10 of the smallest rooms we've ever seen Embrace change Choose elements that switch-hit. Find a table that can function as both a desk and a dining table. Get daybeds or deep sofas that can double as guest beds. A storage ottoman can provide an extra perch, a little table, and a secret hiding place. Invest in pieces that can be rearranged to transform the use of a room: Murphy beds, folding chairs, collapsible or flip-top tables. Pieces like nesting tables and secretaries take up less space than conventional furniture when not in use. Exploit wireless technology wherever possible to make it easy to reposition lighting, speakers, or home-office gadgets. And put furniture on casters, so it's easy to move.Design by Stephen ShubelVideo: Compact living in a small space Trick your eye Create an impression of expansiveness by exploiting decorative sleight of hand, from floor-to-ceiling curtains and see-through furnishings to strategically placed mirrors.Design by Jonathan BergerMore on MSN Living: Small-space decorating dos and dont's Make every piece count Choose furnishings and decorative elements that offer maximum functionality in minimal square footage. "Use two small round tables instead of one big coffee table," designer Ken Fulk says. "They're better for traffic flow than one of those huge knee knockers, and easier to move."Design by Ken FulkVideo: Small space solutions in 2-minutes Use bigger but fewer furnishings It may seem counterintuitive, but outfitting a small space with just a few large-scale pieces (rather than a mishmash of pint-size furniture) can actually make it feel grander. That said, don't be afraid of filling up the space. When a room is populated with furniture, it actually appears larger.Design by Mona Hajj Visual continuity creates calm Soothing, even-toned rooms fool the eye into thinking they're more spacious than they are.Design by Melanie Pounds Customize Bespoke built-ins, storage nooks, and furniture tailored to your exact needs can utilize every available sliver of space.Design by Brockschmidt & Coleman Create a jewel box Splurge on sumptuous materials and exuberant treatments. Play up the petite size to heighten the sense of coziness. Give grandeur to subsidiary spaces like hallways with a salon-style hanging of artwork or a library-like installation of books.Design by Meg Braff Think vertically Exploit the often under-utilized space between the tops of furniture and a room's ceiling with hanging or high-mounted elements. They'll draw the eye upward. Take bookcases and cabinets all the way up.Design by Summer Thornton Create sight lines Tear down walls, enlarge windows, or swap solid doors for glass to open up views and connect adjacent spaces. Or create visual stumbling blocks with new walls or strategically placed screens or shelving that force you to take in the space slowly suggesting that it's larger than it is.Design Mark Egerstrom Edit You don't have to display everything. Keep things uncluttered. "Don't fill every inch," designer Chris Barrett says of accessorizing on shelves. "Group your collections and give them room to breathe."Design by Chris Barrett | 4 | 1,032 | lifestyle |
You painted a room a certain hue because you were drawn to it, but do you know why? Color expert Kate Smith reveals the meanings behind your color choices. Yellow "Bright sunshine yellow has the same high energy as you do when you set your mind on a goal," color expert Kate Smith says. "A unique mix of several bold colors says that you make you own rules and you inspire others with how you experience life fully," color expert Kate Smith says. This media room in a Malibu house designed by Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe has the same high energy feel, it's a happy riot of color the walls are saturated with Sun Porch by Benjamin Moore. Blue "As tried and true blue, you bring a no-nonsense attitude to most endeavors, and your strong belief in the things you undertake is often the key to their success," Smith says. Blue was also the favorite color of designer Lee Ann Thornton's clients the color launched the palette in this Old Greenwich, Connecticut, living room. Light green "Celadon indicates that you are a good listener, have genuine compassion, and allow others to express their hopes and fears," Smith says. In this Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, dining room with light green accents, designer Laura Church Wilmerding added added oomph with Osborne & Little's Jangala Rose wallpaper. Dining room chairs from Classic Imported Design look ethereal in Nina Campbell's Deauville. Pink If you're drawn to bright pink, you're "maybe a bit tempestuous, someone who seeks out new experiences and surroundings," Smith says. "Easily bored by the mundane, they live life with a willingness to put themselves 'out there.'" Pink adds a big punch in this Los Angeles, California, room designed by Windsor Smith, the walls are painted are painted Benjamin Moore's Pink Begonia, with Decorators White on the trim. Brown If you love rich browns in your decor, you "take your obligations seriously, are industrious, and value the respect of those close to you," Smith says. Chocolaty brown grass cloth Sisal in Sable from Clarence House adds intimacy in the dining room of an Old Greenwich, Connecticut, house designed by Lee Ann Thornton. Black Dare to go with dramatic black? You're "elegant, comfortable with formality, complex, a bit mysterious," Smith says. "Precise in your thinking you quickly understand concepts, connect ideas, and envision ways to make things happen." In a Houston house with Georgian bones and siren allure, the drama begins in a foyer swathed in Phillip Jeffries's Lacquered Walls in Eyeliner a long-lasting vinyl that mimics lacquer and "fools everyone," designer Rob Southern says. Bright green Bright green lovers are "someone who exudes positive energy and a 'we can make it happen' philosophy," Smith says. "With a discerning sensibility and an innate desire to put others at ease, this person is a natural when it comes to social endeavors." Designer Allison Paladino glazed the Palm Beach sunroom walls bright green to capture the light and painted the woodwork white to calm it down. Electric blue "Electric blue reveals you as a dynamic personality," Smith says. In the dining room of this Malibu house, designers Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe painted Lambert's Blue by Pratt & Lambert. | 4 | 1,033 | lifestyle |
Perhaps the revolution will be seen on TV. The i8 was featured in the 2011 movie "Mission Impossible -- Ghost Protocol," and now it's finding its way into commercials. Soon it will be seen in its aluminum-clad skin on American roads. From its carbon-fiber tub and aluminum subframe to a unique powertrain that delivers more than 300 hp through a combination of electric motors and a tiny 3-cylinder, 1.5L gas engine, the i8 radically resculpts the present to cast a better, much-different future. After testing the i8, the news gets better. This car performs better than it feels, which was pretty good for starters. The i8 goes from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and all the way to 100 mph in 9.7 seconds. It finishes the quarter mile in 12.4 seconds at 121.1 mph. Not bad for a 1.5L, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine. Those numbers all bested the Tesla Model S, the car to which the i8 is often compared, though that comparison feels more like an intellectual exercise than a head-to-head shakedown. For a better perspective, the i8 matched the likes of the Camaro ZL1, the supercharged Jaguar XJR, and the Mercedes Benz C63 AMG Edition 507 in the 0-60-mph run. It was faster than the Mercedes CLA 45 AMG, the previous-generation M5, and the Cadillac CTS-V coupe in the quarter mile. Creating all of this speed is a unique drivetrain that includes a 129-hp electric motor in the front, the 3-cylinder turbocharged gas engine in the rear, and another small electric motor in the back. The entire package can create a combined 357 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. But that's only off a full 7.1 KW-hr lithium-ion battery pack. If the i8 is in electric-only mode, just the front motor spins, making the car a front-wheel-drive car with 129 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque connected to a two-speed automatic transmission. The rear engine, mounted in front of the rear axle, pushes 228 hp and 184 lb-ft to the rear axle and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. There's also a small electric motor in the back that creates 8 more horsepower. The rear engine combo also sends a small amount of electricity to the batteries to help recharge the pack. BMW has done a remarkable job of getting all of these systems to play together nicely. With the push of a button the car can run on electric only, or the driver can choose to save the battery power for later. The ride overall is stiff, which is good for the enthusiast but not so good for the commuter. But the i8 remains true to the person looking for an exotic sports car. Just look at it. The exterior is crazy beautiful. It's only 50.8 inches tall. The winged doors create just the type of drama onlookers expect as they watch the car pull up to a curb and wait for Rick Deckard to emerge from the vehicle. Any Blade Runner will need excellent agility to exit this low-lying vehicle. The huge sill and extremely low seats make ingress and egress more difficult than walking on ice in stilettos. Being cool comes with a price, in this case a base of $136,650. But once you're in the car, the seats are supportive, the gauges modern and pleasing, and the interior tries to be just as exotic as the exterior. Perhaps this is a flaw in the car's overall design. While the exterior has sexy curves and a design straight from "Aeon Flux," the interior tries too hard to emulate that same feeling. Instead, it feels and smells like hard plastic, and the center stack display screen feels dated. It's good, mind you, just not as good as the exterior. But how much does that matter when the car's performance provides near-supercar numbers? It stops its 3378-pound body from 60 mph to 0 in 103 feet with the help of 13.4-inch ventilated, drilled front disc brakes and 13-inch ventilated, drilled rear disc brakes. However, the brakes, which include regenerative braking to add to the battery pack during stopping, have a softer feel before you push through the regeneration part. They're better than any other regen braking offered by anyone, but they're still different than regular brakes on other sports cars. Braking is less direct. The i8 averaged .94 g in lateral acceleration and completed Motor Trend 's figure eight in 24.6 seconds with at an average of .80 g while wearing the 20-inch Bridgestone Potenza S001 performance summer tires. Its figure-eight time matched that of the Ford GT 500 and Porsche Boxster S, putting it once again in good company. For me, though, the BMW i8 defies the numbers. It's a luxury piece selected as much for the amount of emotion it evokes as its true talents on the road. It comes with certain sacrifices that some people will not tolerate at such a high price. Its interior blemishes and quick battery drain mean this car will often have a low charge and will spend time (and forward power) attempting to keep the batteries full. But for other drivers, those tics are merely some of the fun idiosyncrasies that come with the car. Unless there becomes a shortage of people saying, "Look at me," the i8 should be just fine. These people should love a car whose name starts with I. Furthermore, so much of this car demonstrates what the real automotive future will bring. Carbon-fiber construction is just on the horizon. Multiple powertrains will serve as a bridge to the all-electric vehicles of the future. Cutting-edge design will always stop people in their tracks. Once you get inside this car, you won't want to get out. Whether it's too much fun on a twisty road on a Sunday afternoon or the last time you drove in to work, the BMW i8 is a carbon-fiber car that is just too beautiful to hate. 2014 BMW i8 BASE PRICE $136,650 PRICE AS TESTED $138,650 VEHICLE LAYOUT Mid-engine, AWD, 4-pass, 2-door hatchback ENGINE 1.5L/228-hp/236-lb-ft turbocharged DOHC 12-valve I-3 plus 129-hp/184-lb-ft front and 8-hp rear motors, 357 hp/420 lb-ft (comb) TRANSMISSION 6-sp auto (gas, rr wheels), 2-sp auto (elec, fr wheels) CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 3378 lb (49/51%) WHEELBASE 110.2 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 184.9 x 76.5 x 50.8 in 0-60 MPH 3.8 sec QUARTER MILE 12.4 sec @ 112.1 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 103 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.93 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 24.6 sec @ 0.79 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON Not yet rated RealMPG CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 41.9/49.6/45.0 mpg (preliminary) | 9 | 1,034 | autos |
Even with so many choices on the new-car market, finding a good vehicle for a student can prove difficult. A great back-to-school car should be versatile -- ready for moving boxes, midnight pizza runs, and tight parking. More important, it needs to be safe and budget-friendly. For many students, it will be their first car so, if possible, it should also be a memorable selection. The most obvious college car choices -- for those fortunate enough to get a car at all -- include small sedans, but buyers need not limit themselves to searching in just one segment. On this list, we included a wide range of competitive cars to represent the needs of different students. Parents can rest easy, as each car new car listed earned either 4 or 5 stars in recent government crash-test ratings. Mazda CX-5 Practicality and fun join forces in this eye-catching small crossover. Inside, the cabin represents style and function with easy-to-use controls and soft-touch surfaces. On the road, this crossover handles bumps with poise for its class. Sharp steering and great handling are what really sets apart the CX-5. Best of all, students will enjoy plenty of space for friends and gear without sacrificing that small-car feel. Honda Fit Redesigned for 2015, the Honda Fit is easy to drive and easy to park. It also makes loading cargo simple. This subcompact makes the most of its small size thanks to some clever interior engineering. Multiple seating configurations help drivers load tall, long, and large items. Students should have no problem fitting in that 7-foot-long surfboard, a 4-foot-tall shelf, or even two mountain bikes without front wheels. On top of this, the Honda Fit is affordable because of its great fuel economy and $16,315 base price. Also consider used second-generation Fits, which don't come with the latest technology but still provide all the basics. Dodge Dart The Dart might not be a class leader in dynamics, but if sporty looks in a compact sedan are important, put this one on your list. Achieving up to 41 mpg on the highway with a lower-volume efficiency-oriented trim, the sedan offers a 7-inch customizable gauge cluster and an available 8.4-inch touchscreen as well as quality materials on every trim level. Toyota Prius C Everyone knows Prius is synonymous with practicality, but its smaller sibling is also a great bet for college students. Achieving a combined rating of 50 mpg with a price tag just under $20,000, the Prius C represents a great value for young buyers who are willing to sacrifice interior space for lower emissions. It is smaller than the standard Prius, which makes it easy to park and zip around town. Standard features include remote keyless entry, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, USB port, and a four-speaker sound system. Kia Soul What would a college campus be without a few funky box cars roaming around? While best known for its hamster commercials, the Kia Soul is a surprisingly refined choice in its segment. On the new 2014 model, high-quality interior materials mix with a smooth ride and desirable base price for a great package. Because of its boxy shape, the Soul provides plenty of headroom and legroom to accommodate passengers -- see how many people you can stuff in the car. Available technology includes a competent UVO infotainment system, panoramic sunroof, and an Eco package with engine stop-start system that saves fuel. Honda Civic When buying a Civic, one thing you can count on is reliability. The compact sedan and coupe also boast good resale value and safety ratings. Inside, drivers will enjoy an available HondaLink infotainment system that makes it easy to access music, navigation, and more. Buyers looking for used Honda Civics should note that 2012 models feature Spartan cabins and more road noise compared to newer models. Chevrolet Cruze Introduced in 2011, the Chevrolet Cruze has become one of the automaker's most popular products. Trunk room is respectable for this segment, and parents will be relieved to know their kids are in the hands of OnStar, free for the first six months and available 24/7. Those on a budget will also want to look at Cruze models from the past few years since they haven't changed much from the 2015 model shown here. Ford Mustang A sports car may seem like the last thing a college student needs, but the 2015 Mustang gets the job done in style. This classic car pumps out plenty of fun whether equipped with the base model's V-6 or the efficient yet more powerful turbocharged I-4. One available feature parents may like? MyKey allows them to limit speed and audio volume in the car. Since the Mustang is new for 2015, buyers should be able to snag good prices on 2013-2014 models. Mazda3 Thanks to its sleek exterior styling and fun driving dynamics, the Mazda3 attracts its fair share of young buyers. This model is available as a sedan or a spacious four-door hatchback version. Buyers may find this model a bit sportier than the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Toyota Corolla, and a variety of other cars in its class. But best of all, this sporty appeal doesn't take away from the fact that is extremely fuel efficient, achieving over 40 mpg on the highway. Toyota Tacoma Sometimes a compact hatchback just won't do the job. For those who are constantly lugging supplies to and from home, a small truck may be the best option. The Tacoma name brings along with it a history of reliability and capable performance, and it is also suitable as a daily driver. Buyers can opt for a V-6 or a four-cylinder engine on lower trims. This compact/midsize pickup has remained the same for almost a decade, so buyers shouldn't worry about getting a used model. Honda CR-V The CR-V may not be flashy, but it is one of the most practical small crossovers on the market. With 70.9 cubic-feet of cargo space, the CR-V bests competitors such as the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 and is perfect for hauling sports equipment and light furniture or hosting tailgate parties. Its relatively tight turning radius makes it maneuverable on the road. Optional accessories include running boards, a tailgate spoiler, a cargo organizer, and roof rails for bikes, kayaks, surfboards, and snowboards. Volkswagen Beetle Convertible If you think about it, there's no better time than high school or college to own a Beetle Convertible. So until the time comes when a larger, more practical car is needed for work, why shouldn't students enjoy a drop-top? The Beetle Convertible is a great, if slightly pricey, first car that comes standard with leatherette upholstery, Bluetooth, an eight-speaker sound system, and Car-Net telematics providing automatic crash notification and roadside assistance. Volvo 240 The Volvo 240 was last produced before most college students were born. And while it may stand out in the college parking lot, it has a certain hippie charm that's hard to deny. The 240 also is well known for its incredibly roomy interior and high-for-its-day safety marks. Buyers can snag one for $1000 to $5000, depending on the model year and condition. Subaru XV Crosstrek The XV Crosstrek is a compact crossover that delivers capable performance in the urban landscape and off-the-beaten-path. Its good fuel economy and carlike driving characteristics make it reliable for everyday driving, but its all-weather capability and high ground clearance help it conquer any challenges drivers might face on a long journey. Volkswagen Jetta Something about the Jetta makes it stand out from the sea of Corollas and Civics on our highways. The compact sedan's youthful yet sedate exterior complements a simple cabin, satisfying the basics for college students. New Jettas feature an efficient and surprisingly quick 1.8-liter turbocharged engine or a fuel-efficient diesel. Available features include a sunroof, soft-touch dash, and touch-screen navigation system. Now that you've read about our top back-to-school cars for 2014 -- what are yours? Give us your thoughts below. | 9 | 1,035 | autos |
Nothing beats the rush of scoring a flight upgrade... or of simply getting the service you want, for that matter. Airline staff have a tough job but with the right language, you can snag that coveted first-class seat, early boarding time, or just a friendly agent on the phone (which can be hard enough ). Try these expert-vetted tactics on your next flight reservation, and watch the perks pile up. Highlight your inconvenience. If airline reps know they've given you cause to complain - your card was overcharged, the system stalled, you waited hours on the phone line - then they have an incentive to right the wrong so you won't report the issue. If there's a specific problem you had with a booking, push that issue to the center of your conversation. Use stalling phrases. An agent might offer you a "deal," seeing if you'll snatch it while knowing it's not the lowest price they can offer. Expressing your hesitance - by saying, "I didn't think your 'best price' would still cost so much," or "Let me think about that" - might be what they need to whip out their best offer. Show off how reasonable you are. Airline agents field dozens of outlandish, disgusting and bizarre requests every day - so in your conversation, highlight that you're a reasonable human. Staff will be thrilled to catch a break from the crazy, and most will be more willing to help if you're not so demanding. Volunteer to switch before they ask. Airlines often overbook flights, anticipating that not everyone will show up. If everyone does show up, however, the airline starts offering vouchers to passengers who volunteer to switch to a later flight. They'll start low, and then the vouchers will get more and more valuable as the need for volunteers gets more and more urgent. However, it's most lucrative to volunteer before this whole process starts, says airline expert Tom Parsons. Parsons said he alerts the staff to call upon him if volunteers are needed but that in return, he'd like the best voucher deal of the day. Stick around and chat. Once staff at the gate know you want an upgrade or swap, stay in plain sight. You'll be around to make small talk - then when the agent finally has an upgrade available, you'll be the obvious choice. Hang up and call back. Phone reps are humans, and therefore they're not all of the same temperament. If you're having a hard time meshing with your first rep, hang up and dial again for another one. If you can find out from your first rep what time his or her phone shift typically ends, it may help to make your second call just before that time - when reps are almost done for the day, they'll hurry through the process and just might grant your wishes easier. Offer a present. If you do it in a friendly manner without being flashy, offering an actual gift to staff could be the magic key to getting what you what you want. Travel expert John "Johnny Jet" DiScala, for example, tells sources that giant chocolate bars score him seat swaps about half the time. Now THAT'S sweet talk. | 2 | 1,036 | travel |
Rolls-Royce has announced that it plans to add another drop-top model to its star-studded lineup, lending credence to previous speculation and rumors. A Rolls-Royce spokesperson told our friends at Automobile that the new high-end convertible will be an all-new model, instead of a drophead coupe variant of the lovely Rolls-Royce Wraith (pictured). Many have speculated that the new vehicle would be a Rolls-Royce Wraith Drophead Coupe to follow the Phantom Drophead Coupe . Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös previously said that "the design [of the Wraith] certainly lends itself to a drophead coupe, and I think that will be the next variant." We've even spied a Wraith Drophead prototype testing in the wild before. While the Goodwood-based automaker is saying that the next Rolls-Royce drophead will be an all-new model, it's almost certain that it will be based on the Wraith's platform, even if it gets its own model designation. If this is the case, the new convertible will use the Wraith's same twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V-12, packing a thunderous 624 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Müller-Ötvös said in a statement that he considers the new Rolls-Royce drophead "[a] thoroughly modern interpretation of a pinnacle drophead tourer." If Rolls-Royce chooses to draw from its history, the new convertible could also revive the Corniche nameplate introduced in 1971 for its Silver Shadow-based drophead. Look for the all-new Rolls-Royce Drophead to debut sometime in 2015, with deliveries beginning by mid-2016. Source: Rolls-Royce | 9 | 1,037 | autos |
If you're struggling to lay down some house guidelines for video games, remember the first rule of red wine: While a little bit can be good, too much is a problem. A new study out of Oxford University has found that children who play console or PC games for an hour or less per day tend to be more social and satisfied with life than kids who don't play any video games at all. Hear that, parents? Your kids should get in a round of "Mario Kart" before they start homework. But that's not to say you should let your kid play way into the night. In fact, if your child exceeds that rather strict hour-per-day threshold, the study found the positive effects suddenly vanish. There's no noticeable effect, positive or negative, for kids who play one to three hours of video games compared to kids who play none. And once a child is spending three hours or more in front of their Nintendo, video games begin to take their toll. The researcher found children playing that much every day are more likely to be less happy than non-gamers, as well as more likely to have problems with hyperactivity, attention and relating to their peers. Andrew Przybylski, the behavioral scientist behind the study, came to his conclusion after polling 4,899 British kids aged 10 to 15 about their emotional states and video-game habits. The study was published in the journal Pediatrics this month. Just because video games and mood are linked doesn't mean that one causes the other. Tons of other factors could muddy the causation, like that fact that parents who are able to buy game consoles may be better-off. Plus, a child's social life with family and at school are much, much more important to her well-being than video games, Przybylski wrote in the study. The scientific pendulum has been swinging back and forth on video games for decades. At first thought to make kids violent ( they don't ), video games have been found to be good for us in all sorts of ways : They improve eyesight, help dyslexic kids read and even relieve pain. The idea is that video games, like all games, help people socialize and stimulate their minds. But like eggs, red wine, dark chocolate and nearly everything else found to have surprising health benefits, video games seems to be best only in moderation. Przybylski says he thinks the benefits of playing are washed out once the time spent on video games eats into kids' other activities, like schoolwork. "A large share of time devoted to games may crowd out engagement in other enriching activities and risk exposure to content meant for mature audiences," he wrote in the study. This article originally appeared in The Huffington Post | 4 | 1,038 | lifestyle |
This tiny home on wheels has just 172 square feet of space. Guillaume Dutilh, a Tumbleweed workshop host, poses on the porch of a Tumbleweed brand Cypress 24 model Tiny House on display in Boulder, Colorado August 4, 2014. The Tiny House Movement started some years ago with people around the world building really small living spaces and loving their new simplified lives. These tiny houses can range from 1,000 square feet (93 square meters) down to less than 100 square feet (9.3 square meters), and are certainly not ramshackle shacks. A Tumbleweed brand Cypress 24 model Tiny House is towed down the highway near Boulder, Colorado August 4, 2014. Guillaume Dutilh, a Tumbleweed workshop host, poses in the kitchen of Tumbleweed brand Cypress 24 model Tiny House on display in Boulder, Colorado August 4, 2014. People look over a Tumbleweed brand Cypress 24 model Tiny House on display in Boulder, Colorado August 4, 2014. The loft bedroom of a Tumbleweed brand Cypress 24 model Tiny House is seen on display in Boulder, Colorado August 4, 2014. Doug McEneany (R) takes a picture as Jill Caraway (L) looks over a Tumbleweed brand Cypress 24 model Tiny House on display in Boulder, Colorado August 4, 2014. Guillaume Dutilh, a Tumbleweed workshop host, poses in the living area of a Tumbleweed brand Cypress 24 model Tiny House on display in Boulder, Colorado August 4, 2014. | 4 | 1,039 | lifestyle |
The 700 (Horsepower) Club The 700 (Horsepower) Club The 700 Club Just 15 years ago one of the most exotic sports cars on the market the Lamborghini Diablo boasted 530 horsepower, and this was the only production car at the time to exceed 500 horses. Today you can buy a production Ford Mustang with power exceeding that exotic Lambo. So how do you set yourself apart from mere Mustangs in this day and age? To be at the top of the food chain, you now need at least 700 horses under the hood. Let's look at the most horsepower straight from the factory that your money can buy. 2014 Lamborghini Aventador LP 720 4 50 Anniversario The Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario is currently the baddest Aventador on the block. Built to celebrate Lamborghini's 50th anniversary and making 19-horsepower more than the standard Aventador, the Aventador LP720-4 50 is powered by a big 6.5-liter V-12 producing 710 hp. Lamborghini says its special edition Aventador can accelerate from 0-60 mph in under three seconds. 2013 Pagani Huayra The Pagani Huayra is what happens when Italy and Germany's best join forces. Designed and built by Pagani in Italy, the Huayra is powered by a Mercedes-Benz AMG-sourced V-12. The Huayra's 6.0-liter twin-turbo V-12 makes 720 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque. That power gets put through a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic, and sent to the rear wheels. 2014 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta The Ferrari F12 Berlinetta is somewhat of an outlier on this list it's the only car with over 700 hp to feature a front-engine and rear-drive layout. The F12's 6.3-liter V-12 makes some serious power, sending 731 hp and 508 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. In our testing, the F12 Berlinetta rocketed from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds impressive for a rear-drive grand touring car. 2014 Lamborghini Veneno Roadster The Aventador not powerful enough for you? Then the Lamborghini Veneno is the Lambo for you. Based on the Aventador but with even wilder styling, the Veneno is powered by the same 6.5-liter V-12 as its less-exclusive sibling. That said the three Venenos built produce more power with the naturally aspirated V-12 producing 740 hp, giving the hyper exotic a claimed 221 mph top speed. Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive The most-powerful AMG car in the Mercedes-Benz lineup just so happens to be the most eco-friendly. The limited-edition Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive is powered by four 185-hp and 185 lb-ft of torque electric motors one powering each wheel. Combined, all four motors produce a stout 740 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder The Porsche 918 Spyder is a technological tour-de-force. The 918 is capable of operating as an electric car, a plug-in hybrid, and as a full-on hypercar. Allowing it do all these things is a powerplant consisting of a 4.7-liter V-8 and three electric motors one in back and two in front. The result is an all-wheel drive beast making 874 hp and 944 lb-ft of torque. 2014 Mclaren P1 British upstart McLaren went the same route as Porsche with its P1 hypercar. Like the 918, the McLaren P1 is a plug-in hypercar with a V-8 and electric motors. Unlike the 918, the McLaren P1's 3.8-liter V-8 features two turbochargers and an electric motor, resulting a car making 904 hp and 531 lb-ft of torque. The P1 is one of the quickest cars we've ever tested, accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 2.6 seconds. Ferrari LaFerrari Get this: the Ferrari LaFerrari is ALSO an electrified hypercar. The LaFerrari is powered by a 6.3-liter V-12 and an electric motor, producing a staggering 950 hp. The rear-drive carbon fiber-bodied LaFerrari can reportedly accelerate from 0-62 mph in less than three seconds. Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse The last Bugatti Veyron left in production is the most powerful. The drop-top Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse is among the fastest cars in the world, with a 268 mph top speed. Pushing the Veyron to that staggering top speed is an 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W-16 engine that makes 1184 hp and 1106 lb-ft of torque. All that power is routed through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox to an advanced all-wheel drive system. Hennessey Venom GT Though some might argue that the Lotus-bodied and Corvette-powered Hennessey Venom GT isn't a production car, the fact that it's capable of 270.49 mph earns it a spot on this list. Based on a stretched Lotus Exige, the Texas-built Venom GT is powered by the old Corvette ZR1's LS9 6.2-liter V-8. With the supercharger removed and two big turbos added, the Venom GT makes 1244 hp, mated to a good ol' fashioned six-speed manual transmission. Koenigsegg Agera One:1 The Swedes take home with the most powerful car in the world. The Koenigsegg Agera R sports a 5.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 making 1150 hp. For those needing more power, Koenigsegg recently announced the Agera One:1, which produces a staggering 1321 hp. Koenigsegg claims the Agera One:1 can accelerate from 0-249 mph in less than 10 seconds something we can't wait to try out for ourselves. | 9 | 1,040 | autos |
GM released pricing details on the upcoming Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize pickup trucks. The base Colorado, which features an extended cab and a 205-hp 2.5-liter inline-4 engine, mated to a six-speed manual transmission starts at $20,995 including $895 destination, while the base Canyon starts at $21,880 including $925 destination. Both trucks come standard with a 200-hp 2.5-liter I-4 mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The base Colorado features power windows, a locking tailgate, and back-up camera as standard. Available options for the Colorado will include a 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 with a 6-speed automatic transmission, 4G LTE with a built-in WiFi hotspot, Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning, and an accessory system for assisting in cargo organization and storage. General Motors notes that full option pricing will be available closer to launch. The crew cab comes with either a 5- or 6-foot bed, while extended cab models come only with the 6-foot box. Some pricing examples were provided; the Colorado LT crew cab with 2WD and the 5-foot box has a starting price of $27,985, and the Colorado Z71 crew cab 4x4 with the 5-foot box starts at $34,990. Helping to justify the price difference, the Canyon comes standard with LED headlights, a four-way power driver's seat, and unique 16-inch aluminum wheels. Also available is the SLE trim level, starting at $27,520. The SLE model adds aluminum interior trim, soft-touch instrument panel and door pads, EZ-lift-and-lower tailgate, 8.0-inch diagonal touchscreen with Intellilink infotainment system, and OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. A 4WD Canyon SLT crew cab short box model begins at $37,875, and includes leather-trimmed seating, automatic climate control, 18-inch polished cast-aluminum wheels, remote start and an automatic locking rear differential. GM says EPA numbers and torque figures will be released closer to the trucks' fall 2014 launch date. Source: GM | 9 | 1,041 | autos |
Lexus is introducing the Crafted Line for the 2015 model year, which will encompass several of its models. Crafted Line models will show off their unique interior and exterior treatments and matching TUMI luggage when they debut later this month at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance . Outside, Lexus Crafted Line models feature Ultra White paint with contrasting Obsidian Black accents including door handles, side mirrors, and grille. Inside, the black interior features seats, headrests, door panels, and contrast stitching in Scarlet or Cabernet. Other standard features include navigation, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and more. A Mequiar's New Car Care Kit is also included. Further enhancing the Crafted Line models is a set of matching TUMI brand duffel bags. The TUMI duffel bags feature an FXT ballistic nylon exterior finished in black with contrasting white trim and zippers. Inside, the duffel bags are lined with gunmetal nylon embossed with a grid pattern and red stitching. Additionally, other available TUMI luggage pieces include matching large wheeled duffel and wheeled split duffel bags. The Crafted Line is available for LS 460 F Sport, GS 350 F Sport, and IS 250 F Sport sedans with rear- or all-wheel drive as well as RX 350 AWD F Sport and ES 350 models. Lexus will display all available Crafted Line models and the matching TUMI duffel bag set at Pebble Beach on August 15-17. Source: Lexus | 9 | 1,042 | autos |
My driving partner is hustling the 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish across the scenic Scottish Highlands on paved, twisty singletrack narrow enough to require pull-aside-to-pass spots. Most drivers -- even a fast group on street bikes -- are yielding, smiling, some giving thumbs-up as we surge by. "It's like you're famous," I say to the driver, who is intensely focused as he again hammers the accelerator. His reply, with a slight "no" motion of his head: "Nah, the car's famous." Yes, the car Jonny Lieberman called "Big Sexy" upon its debut two years ago is famous. Especially in the Highlands, home to James Bond's fictional Skyfall family estate. (Hey, Aston doesn't miss an opportunity to slip a Bond reference into conversation; why should we?) And now the visually stunning Vanquish and 2015 Aston Martin Rapide S sport serious performance upgrades. The standard prescription for cars in need of a vitality boost seems to be "take an eight-speed ZF and call me in the morning." That tonic has significantly awakened these two, which share Aston Martin's VH architecture. The four-door Rapide S ($207,820) and Vanquish coupe ($287,820) had a lot going for them already. The hand-built cars really are sexy (We've never been approached by as many female car fans as when behind the wheel of a Flugplatz Blue 2014 Vanquish), powered by V-12s with a gorgeous sound, and are bathed in luxury touches. So while they weren't ailing, they were trailing -- in the performance department. That's largely the fault of the old-school six-speed automatic that was in both cars. How much life has Aston Martin breathed into their top two models? How's a half-second faster to 60 mph? (Aston says 3.6 seconds for Vanquish and 4.2 seconds for Rapide S.) And how's a top speed for both of 203 mph, up 13 mph for Rapide S and 20 mph for Vanquish? But really? It's that simple? New transmission? Kinda. Aston Martin did other things too -- design director Marek Reichman calls it a "major refresh under the skin" -- all of which add up to significantly more athletic cars. And let's face it: Aston has design and luxury pretty much under control. Reichman said the majority of improvements are about giving the cars, especially the Rapide S, "more sporting character." First, about that 8HP gearbox from ZF. It has become an industry standard, appearing in a raft of BMWs, Bentleys, Jaguars, and more. Astonishingly, the new transmission is almost 9 pounds lighter than the previous six-speed and fits in the previous case. Aston Martin engineers took the lead from there, tuning it to work with the V-12. Why now, after almost everyone? Aston is small -- the Gaydon factory produces only about 4000 cars per year -- and changes must be deliberate. It also helps line efficiency to put the ZF into both cars. Aston Martin says shifts between gears are completed in a maximum of 130 milliseconds. Translation: Faster than you can say "Q." That's with the paddles, too. While driving the 2015 Vanquish and 2015 Rapide S on some truly glorious, low-traffic, mountain and coastal roads dotted with only the occasional village, sheep herd, or speed camera, the cars would upshift before I finished pulling back on the paddle, raising the revs and re-engaging the grin-inducing pull of the V-12 (576 hp/465 lb-ft for Vanqish, 560 hp/465 lb-ft for Rapide S). Two nifty software touches: Adaptive Drive Recognition tailors shift points in standard Drive mode to your style behind the wheel. So if you're aggressive, you'll quickly feel a change in the shift map even if you haven't engaged Drive Sport mode. The car constantly collects data beginning with each engine start, so it will morph during your drive if necessary. Nifty touch No. 2: If you hold down the left (downshift) paddle, the transmission skips as many gears as necessary to find the right ratio. On our drives in the Rapide S and Vanquish, that maneuver worked great on the winding roads, where we'd be pulling hard in sixth but needed to haul down to second in a hurry to set up a tight curve. Even with those performance improvements, the transmission comes with a bonus: big improvements in fuel economy. The Vanquish gets 14 mpg city. On the highway, a 16 percent improvement gets it to 22 mpg. The Rapide S gets 13/21 mpg city/highway, an 11 percent improvement on the highway. It's easy to see why: At 70 mph, the V-12 hums along at a very leisurely and quiet 1500 rpm in eighth gear. In fact, eighth is strictly for economy, as top speed is reached in seventh. In Drive mode (that's normal automatic shifting), though the transmissions are tuned for quickness, they still keep the car in relatively low rpms unless you slam your foot down. It was far more fun to use the paddles to keep the transmission between 3500-5500 rpm, where maximum torque -- and near-maximum music from the engine and exhaust -- takes place. Slowing the Astons from speed is more confident, as the brakes have retuned boost to allow for a stronger initial bite. And the Rapide S has larger front brakes, increasing to 400mm diameter with six-piston calipers (the Vanquish's brakes stay the same at 398 mm and six pistons front and 360mm four-piston rear). At the back, Rapide S has a 360mm four-piston set. We experienced great, consistent feel in both cars, and no discernible fade, though the roads had enough variety that there was usually plenty of cool-down between extreme situations. Both cars ride on beautiful, 20-inch 10-spoke forged alloy wheels that are 15 pounds lighter per set than the wheels on the 2014 models. Working with the ZF transmission is a new Bosch engine management system for both cars, and both cars now have carbon-fiber drive shafts for an increase in power transmitted to the drive wheels, and a new alloy torque tube for quieter performance. The Rapide S really benefits from Aston's efforts to reduce noise. Reichman credited some of this improvement to a specially designed low-rolling resistance tire from Bridgestone. Wait. They increased performance with an LRR tire set? Apparently. The Rapide S supplied plenty of confidence as we blasted around mostly in Sport mode on both suspension and throttle/shifting (they're adjustable separately). And the cars felt more sure-footed at speed, especially when those mostly empty Scottish roads (our least-favorite sign: "CATTLE GRID") threw the occasional off-camber corner, or fast sweepers with unsettling undulations, at us. Aston Martin says it worked to create a greater difference in damping between Sport and Drive, and passengers could easily guess which setting the cars were in. We never really futzed with Track mode, as it was inappropriate for unpredictable conditions. Steering in both was above average and unchanged from the previous models. The Vanquish is a little quicker (2.6 turns lock-to-lock vs. 3.0 on the Rapide S) and transmits slightly more feel -- in a good way -- about where the wheels are and the condition of the road. Inside the Rapide S and Vanquish is the same Aston Martin luxury one comes to expect, such as full-grain Luxmill leather over most of the interior and Alcantara headliners and steering wheel. One Vanquish our group drove even had an optional quilted-leather headliner with contrast stitching. Some thought it a bit much, but I couldn't stop staring. Newly available interior color options include Fandango Pink (for trim only, please) and Dark Knight, a black-ish blue. Aston Martin admits that the infotainment system leaves a bit to be desired, with its tiny nav screen. But that's where future refreshes could receive big dividends from its partnership with Mercedes-Benz, which mostly has created buzz around replacement of Aston's V-8 engines. Could we see a COMAND-like system in future Astons? "The engine side of the agreement is only one part," Reichman said. "The electrical [infotainment] architecture is the other." Fair enough. Just promise we'll still get those gorgeous glass buttons and what may be the world's coolest ignition key (it's crystal, embossed on one end with the Aston logo) in these now quicker and more responsive examples of hand-made art on wheels. For more than 100 additional images of the 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish and 2015 Aston Martin Rapide S, head to the second page of this review. 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish 2015 Aston Martin Rapide S BASE PRICE $287,820 $207,820 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, RWD, 4-pass, 2-door coupe Front-engine, RWD, 4-door, 4-pass sedan ENGINE 5.9L/576-hp/465-lb-ft DOHC 48-valve V-12 5.9L/560-hp/465-lb-ft DOHC 48-valve V-12 TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic 8-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT 3850 lb 4400 lb WHEELBASE 107.9 117.7 LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT 184.7 x 75.2 x 50.9 in 197.6 x 75.9 x 53.5 in 0-60 MPH 3.6 sec (mfr est) 4.2 sec (mfr est) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 14/22/17 13/21/16 ON SALE IN U.S. Third quarter 2014 Third quarter 2014 | 9 | 1,043 | autos |
Over the past year, I've been taking a photo of more or less every meal that I've eaten. But I'm not sending those photos to Instagram or Facebook instead, I'm uploading them to a diet app called Rise , which has helped me to eat better and lose weight. Rise works by connecting its users with diet coaches who take a look at their client's meals and offer feedback. That feedback ranges from telling you "Good job!" to making suggestions about what you can do better. In my case, a lot of what my diet coach wrote back fell under that latter category i.e., telling me I need to eat more greens, less starchy vegetables, and to scratch fried foods and desserts from my diet. It's one part education and one part accountability, as coaches first help users understand what they're doing wrong, and how they can make meaningful changes over time. Rise founder Suneel Gupta created the app in part based on his own family's experience dealing with diet and weight loss when he was a kid. (Disclosure: Suneel is the husband of my former colleague Leena Rao, who first introduced me to the app.) His parents were struggling with eating healthy, and ended up finally finding a dietitian that would work with building a plan around their South Asian diet. With the app, Rise is seeking to bring the same amount of personalized instruction to users at a fraction of what it would cost for them to hire a diet coach on their own. Not only that, but they're connecting with their coaches every day, as opposed to following up once a week. For diet coaches, the platform enables them to serve multiple clients at a time in their spare time, as opposed to just a few each day. My coach, Jo, was working in a hospital providing diet advice before joining Rise. Now she's able to help dozens of clients improve their daily eating habits. Of course, it's still up to the user to actually implement the changes. After gaining back some weight, I'm back on track… Although Jo still isn't thrilled with my Sunday dinner of a cheeseburger and fries. Check out the video above to learn more. | 7 | 1,044 | health |
Daily driving a 2015 Kia K900 V-8 has its perks, but if there's one element of ownership I would magically change, it's the fuel economy -- or the size of the fuel tank. It has nothing to do with the price of gas, but rather how much my time as a $66,400-car-driving commuter is worth. While expecting 30 mpg from a car as big and powerful as the K900 is ludicrous, it's difficult to avoid the Kia's bottom-of-the-pack fuel economy, and, more important, overall driving range. There's nothing luxurious about spending more time than necessary at gas stations unless you own a 12-cylinder luxury car, in which case you should pay someone to refuel for you. So just how good is the K900 V-8's fuel economy in the real world? We Real MPG tested the Kia on regular and premium gas to find out whether we'd see a difference. A recent trip to Laguna Beach put the fuel economy/driving range issue into perspective. With four people enjoying the Kia's quiet cabin as we inched down the 405 freeway, I wondered at what point during our weekend getaway I would once again be filling up the car. The K900's full-size competition might be far more expensive, but whether the cars come with a six- or eight-cylinder engine, their fuel economy and overall driving range have the Kia beat. The K900 V-8 is EPA-rated at 15/23 mpg city/highway on premium gas with a 356-mile driving range based on the EPA combined mileage figure and the car's 19.8-gallon fuel tank. The 2014 Lexus LS 460 L is good for an EPA-rated 16/24 mpg and a 422-mile driving range, while the six-cylinder BMW 740Li gets 19/29 mpg, has a 464-mile driving range, and will reach 60 mph from a standstill in around 5 and a half seconds. The eight-cylinder BMW 750Li still has the edge on the Kia in EPA ratings, as does the segment-leading Mercedes-Benz S550, the Audi A8 L, and in fuel economy, the six- but not eight-cylinder Jaguar XJL. No one can take away from Kia's boldness in introducing the attractive K900, but we'd point to fuel economy and driving range to anyone who says the car is a direct match in every way for large cars costing far more money. When we handed over the K900 V-8's keys to the Real MPG team, two tests were conducted: one with regular fuel and one with the car's recommended premium. After RTFM-ing, I learned that Kia allows the use of 87-octane gas, but notes 91-octane gas will yield "improved vehicle performance." With minor tweaks, Hyundai uses the same 5.0-liter V-8 on the Genesis sedan, which allows owners to use regular gas if they're willing to sacrifice 13 hp and 11 lb-ft of torque compared to what they'd get with premium fuel. Though the Kia K900 V-8's specs vary slightly from those of the Genesis V-8 and Equus, we were still curious to see what effect using regular fuel would have on fuel economy. It turns out not much changes, at least on the K900's naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8. Compared to EPA figures of 15/23 mpg, the K900 V-8 got 14.6/24.1 Real MPG and a combined 17.7 Real MPG on regular fuel. Results with the recommended premium gas were so close that the difference was statistically insignificant. The K900 V-8 got 14.7 Real MPG in the city and again beat the EPA estimate on the highway, with 24.6 Real MPG. The combined 18.0 Real MPG figure suggests your fuel economy might not vary greatly if you ignore Kia's recommendation to use premium gas in a K900 V-8. In future updates, we'll explore the performance of the K900 on regular and premium gas, and plenty more. For now, I'll have to accept that part of the driving experience of this respectably executed luxury eight-cylinder sedan is visiting gas stations a few more times per year than others in its class. Considering how much more those sedans cost, however, some could argue it's a small price to pay for all the K900 offers. More on our long-term Kia K900 V-8 here: Arrival Our Car Service life 2975 mi Average fuel economy 18.4 mpg CO2 emissions 1.05 lb/mi EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 15/23/18 mpg Energy consumption 183 kW-hr/100mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $0 Normal-wear cost $0 | 9 | 1,045 | autos |
No official details are yet available concerning the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, but we've now seen the first teaser of the redesigned electric vehicle. At the 2015 Detroit auto show, we'll be able to see the whole car unveiled. The announcement came today at the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefings, where Chevrolet global chief market officer Tim Mahoney highlighted how far the Chevrolet Volt has come following its arrival as a 2011 model. Mahoney said that over 65,000 units of the Chevrolet Volt have sold since it hit the market. Sales of the Volt are slightly down year-to-date through July, down to 10,635 from 11,643 at this point in 2013, but sales went up 13 percent this past month compared with last July.When we do see the 2016 Chevrolet Volt in January, it's likely it will ride on a new platform and boast an increased all-electric range. For now, GM has not officially detailed anything more on the car other than a teaser photo of its rear (pictured above). Former GM CEO Dan Akerson said in the past that he was pushing to increase the Volt's all-electric range by at least 20 percent . While the current Chevrolet Volt uses a 1.4-liter four-cylinder as a range-extender and generator for the Volt's battery and electric motor, the next Volt could switch to a smaller and lighter turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder mill. We also expect the 2016 Chevrolet Volt will leave behind its Delta platform in favor of a new architecture that's better suited with extended-range electric vehicle technology. GM's Detroit-Hamtramck plant will build the 2016 Chevrolet Volt, as it has done since the car's introduction, with a $449-million backing from General Motors for upgrading and retooling the facility. The plant will also produce another still-unrevealed electric vehicle, which could have a much larger range of up to 200 miles thanks to new LG Chem batteries . Those new batteries could also be used for the Volt, too, as the current car's batteries are also sourced from LG Chem. While the Volt was a trailblazer when it debuted, winning our Car of the Year award in 2011 , the marketplace is becoming ever-more populated with hybrid and electric vehicles. The 2016 Chevrolet Volt will face far more competition than its predecessor, including the planned all-electric Tesla Model 3, which may be priced in a bracket just above the Volt somewhere between $30,000 and $40,000 when it arrives in a few years' time. Look for more details on the 2016 Chevrolet Volt as we approach the 2015 Detroit auto show in January. Images of current Chevrolet Volt shown below. Source: GM | 9 | 1,046 | autos |
Beware the 'dead leaf' syndrome You'd expect Tim McCarthy, the former president of Charles Schwab and the author of "The Safe Investor," to have the perfect retirement portfolio. You'd be wrong. After writing a piece about retirement plans, McCarthy decided to check on his own. "Sure enough, I didn't have nearly enough equities in my retirement plan," he said. Instead, his stocks were in his taxable accounts, and if he sold them to rebalance after the recent run-up, he'd owe taxes. Few people reach retirement with perfectly geared 401(k)s and IRAs. Only about 45 percent of all workers have current access to a retirement plan at work at all, according to the Washington, D.C.-based Employee Benefit Research Institute . But if you do have one, chances are good you have more than one. The nature of the employment system is that people accumulate accounts as they change jobs, and they often end up with a hodgepodge of investments that leaves them vulnerable to risk of all kinds, including a portfolio that's so volatile it could take a dip just when you need the money, a portfolio that is so conservative you lose to inflation or a portfolio that is not optimized for taxes. A snapshot of the U.S. retirement market tells the story. Of the $23 trillion in retirement assets, more than half is in 401(k)s and IRAs, and the rest is in defined benefit plans, annuities, state and local pension plans and an array of other financial vehicles, according to the Investment Company Institute's most recent 2014 Fact Book. Just beginning to think about what you need to do may be the hardest step. If you're in your 50s, you might be stuck in what McCarthy calls the "dead leaf" syndrome. You're looking ahead to a time when you're no longer needed -- to avoid feeling like a dead leaf about to be swept to the curb -- you might be tempted to ignore your retirement portfolio altogether. That would be a mistake. Ignoring your portfolio could come at a high cost if history catches you at the wrong moment. At the end of 2007, investors were woefully weighted with stocks, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans ages 56 to 65 had more than 90 percent of their account balances in equities at year-end 2007, and over 2 in 5 had more than 70 percent. Equities declined nearly 40 percent the following year, wiping out billions in retirement savings for many retirees. It forced many near-retirees to delay stepping out of the workforce. The typical retirement-age couple walks in the door with portfolios overweighted in equities, said Tim Maurer, director of personal finance for the St. Louis BAM Alliance, which represents 142 independent investment advisors nationwide. "Typically, we are dialing it back," he said. Now, as the economy hums along and the market rises, it is a good time to bulletproof your portfolio against the volatility that can strike at any time. Click ahead for tips on safeguarding your retirement savings. More from CNBC Record IRA contributions may not save retirement Building a solid nest egg: It's location, location, location Savvy ways to build a retirement investment plan Figure out what you need Any financial adviser worth his or her salt will tell you that as you enter your 50s, you need to have a firm idea of the budget you'll need in retirement, so before you begin bulletproofing, have a clear sense of your required monthly income. The typical household made up of Americans in the 55-to-64 age range has accumulated only enough retirement assets -- $120,000 -- to produce $400 to $500 of income a month to add to Social Security payments, according to the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances. That typical retirement savings of $120,000 will produce about $400 to $500 a month in income. The typical Social Security benefit is $1,887. More from CNBC Record IRA contributions may not save retirement Building a solid nest egg: It's location, location, location Savvy ways to build a retirement investment plan Save more, and extend your working life The biggest lever you can use to bulletproof you retirement portfolio is to put more money into it, which you can do by saving more. And the simplest way to do that is to work longer. Suppose you need $80,000 a year in retirement. If you can continue to earn $100,000 a year for five years past your expected retirement date and put aside $20,000 or $30,000 of that a year, you will have added a total of six to seven years of income to your portfolio. You can also increase your Social Security benefit 76 percent a month by delaying your claim from 62 -- the earliest year you're allowed to claim -- to 70. More from CNBC Record IRA contributions may not save retirement Building a solid nest egg: It's location, location, location Savvy ways to build a retirement investment plan Diversify your portfolio If you want to lower the volatility of your portfolio, diversify within and among asset classes. That means owning funds instead of individual stocks, and owning multiple asset classes instead of just one: a portfolio of emerging markets stock and bond funds, plus domestic stock and bond funds. As always, keep your fees low. Vanguard projects returns for a balanced portfolio of 60 percent stocks and 40 percent bonds over the next 10 years to range from 3 percent to 12 percent, with the most likely scenario between 1.5 percent and 7.5 percent a year on an annualized basis. Equities alone are forecast to have a return centered on the 6 percent to 9 percent range, but with a possible swing from year to year of a full 18 percent. Bonds expected returns are centered in the 1.5 percent to 3 percent range. The translation: You'll probably earn nearly as high returns with a balanced portfolio, but you'll face much less volatility. You can either diversify your own portfolio or buy a good low-cost target date fund. Vanguard offers some; Fidelity Investments offers the Fidelity Freedom Index Funds, which are similar. Just remember: in order for a target date fund to work properly, your whole retirement account balance needs to be in the fund. More from CNBC Record IRA contributions may not save retirement Building a solid nest egg: It's location, location, location avvy ways to build a retirement investment plan Design asset allocations with an eye to taxes If you have significant holdings outside your retirement accounts, think through which asset classes belong in your retirement account. You'll save significantly on taxes if you keep the equities -- which you may buy and sell more frequently as you rebalance -- in your retirement portfolio. But don't make your portfolio decisions around your tax savings; maximizing your investment returns and keeping your principal safe is a higher priority, McCarthy said. More from CNBC Record IRA contributions may not save retirement Building a solid nest egg: It's location, location, location avvy ways to build a retirement investment plan Keep a healthy portion of equities Don't make the mistake of getting rid of all of your equities and shifting into money market funds because you think they are safer. "You could move too conservatively," said Maria Bruno, senior investment analyst at Vanguard. If you look at the returns of equities and cash every year since 1926, she said, equities lost value in a third, but on a real basis, cash lost money in a third of the years, too, because of inflation. Most experts recommend that in retirement you have at least a 20 percent allocation to equities. If you have nerves of steel, you can keep much more than that in equities. More from CNBC Record IRA contributions may not save retirement Building a solid nest egg: It's location, location, location Savvy ways to build a retirement investment plan Relax and set up automatic rebalancing You'll be retired for a long time, so in order for your money to keep working at the highest possible pace, you need to continue selling high and buying low, which is what rebalancing automatically does for you. A target date fund will rebalance automatically, so will a number of online options and investment advisers. Ask at yours. More from CNBC Record IRA contributions may not save retirement Building a solid nest egg: It's location, location, location avvy ways to build a retirement investment plan | 3 | 1,047 | finance |
For Jenine McKay, motherhood was the happy ending to a fairy tale that never actually happened. A few years ago, the then-39-year-old London-based events planner found herself suddenly single and desperate for a baby. Her live-in relationship of 15 years had fallen apart mainly because of her self-described "intense desire to be a mother" and her then-partner's "inability to commit to being a father". Heart-broken, disappointed and on her own, McKay did not opt to curl up in bed with a pint of ice cream. Instead, at the urging of her supportive father, she went directly to her gynaecologist to find out if she was still fertile. After checking her hormone levels, ovaries and egg reserve through a simple series of blood tests (which all turned out to be in good shape for her age), her doctor informed her that she was an excellent candidate for egg freezing. So McKay booked an appointment at the Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, one of London's many private fertility clinics, and after several weeks of consultations and hormone treatment, found herself in receipt of eleven large, healthy oocytes the medical term for unfertilised eggs which were then flash frozen by the clinic using a process called "vitrification" that replaces the egg fluid with antifreeze. The whole procedure cost her roughly £5,000. For the next three years, the clinic kept her eggs on ice and McKay simply went on living her life dating, travelling and running her business as usual. When, at the age of 42, she still hadn't met a new partner, she decided to start shopping for sperm instead. "I'm a very practical sort of person," she says, "and I was damned if I was going to end up one of those wistful middle aged women saying, 'Oooh, I wish I'd had a baby when I had the chance'." The staff at her fertility clinic directed her to a Spanish-owned website she describes as "the Guardian Soulmates of sperm donors". For weeks, McKay browsed through hundreds of donors before settling on an American-born sperm donor of Scandinavian and American parentage. A married, university-educated professional with a child of his own, he was tall, blonde, blue-eyed and athletic, just like her. His medical history on both sides of his family was excellent. And, most crucially for McKay, he was an "open donor", who had given his sperm for altruistic reasons (he'd had friends who suffered infertility and conceived through donor sperm). This "open donor" status meant he was happy to be contacted by any future children once they turned 18 years of age. Just like that, McKay had found her biological baby daddy. It was a strange process, she admits, but also a refreshingly straight-forward one. "In an odd way I feel like I learned more crucial information about my donor on that website than I learned about my former partner in 15 years. For one thing, he kept his promise to father a child." She bought the maximum number of units of her donor's frozen sperm that she was allowed (European law stipulates any sperm donor can father no more than 10 children) and had the semen shipped to London. Price tag: roughly £3,000. Once the doctors had thawed and fertilised several of McKay's eggs with the donor sperm, she had one course of in vitro-fertilisation which worked on the first round. At the age of 42 she was officially pregnant with her own 39-year-old egg. The three remaining fertilised embryos potential future siblings for her future child were put back in the deep freeze for safe-keeping. In the end, the entire treatment including IVF, eggs, sperm and storage cost her roughly £20,000. It was money she doesn't regret spending. McKay is now the mother of chubby, vocal two-month-old named Maximillion. She is also just one of the growing number of British and European women who are using the controversial-but-improving technology of egg freezing to open up their window of fertility and beat the ever-ticking biological clock. For McKay, the decision to take control of her reproductive life with all the means available to her was the single most important choice she's ever made. "Maybe it's a cliché," she says, "now that my son is here I really do feel like my life is complete." According to the UK's Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) a statutory body that regulates and collects data from the country's fertility clinics there has been a marked rise in a number of women seeking to freeze their eggs for so-called "social" reasons (as opposed to medical reasons such as cancer treatment, which can result in infertility) in recent years. All the British fertility specialists I spoke to for this piece reported that they had seen a significant rise in demand for the treatment, and the latest official numbers from HFEA confirm this. In America, numbers are similarly rising with many fertility clinics reporting that their caseloads for egg freezing has doubled in the last two years. In 2012 in Britain, 580 women froze their eggs, up from 284 in 2009. And this number does not even account for the many British women who are now travelling abroad to seek cheaper treatment in places like Spain and South Africa. While the overall numbers are still relatively low, many who undergo treatment rave about the benefits both physical (the potential to carry a child later in life) as well as emotional (the allaying of biological anxiety). In fact, according to a Belgian study published last summer, women who freeze eggs report they are overwhelmingly happy with the result. Of 140 Belgian women surveyed who froze their eggs for social reasons, 95% said they would do so again and 70% said they would do so at a younger age. But is the "reproductive insurance policy" of egg freezing really all it's cracked up to be? A vocal minority of experts in the field say, "No". Lord Robert Winston, a fertility specialist and BBC presenter, insists that egg freezing is "a confidence trick" that allows greedy private fertility clinics to prey on the hopes of anxious, desperate women. "Women are spending vast amount of money on this treatment but the success rates simply aren't there. In fact less than 10% of the women who do it end up getting pregnant." Indeed, recent numbers released by the HFEA confirm that just 21 frozen-egg babies were born in the UK as a result of 253 fertility cycles between 1991 and 2012 a dismal overall success rate of just 8%. But it's important to remember that those numbers take into account the early years of egg freezing, when the procedure was purely experimental. "When it first started in 1986, egg freezing was spectacularly unsuccessful," says Dr Gillian Lockwood, a fertility specialist at Midland Fertility Services in the UK, which has seen seven frozen-egg babies born to patients in the recent years. But today, she points out, the success rates have risen substantially because of vitrification, a process that essentially protects the "shell" of the egg by replacing egg fluid with anti-freeze, thus ensuring the fluid doesn't expand when frozen, causing the egg to crack. Spain, Europe's leading country in fertility technology and treatment, has become a destination for women trying to get pregnant with donor eggs. Today, almost half of the donor egg cycles in Europe are done there. According to Lockwood, her Spanish colleagues are increasingly using vitrified eggs from frozen egg banks for donor patients, rather than fresh, and increasingly they are finding the results are exactly the same. The difference, of course, is that most frozen donor eggs are young (usually under 35) at the point of vitrification. In the real world, women tend not to seek out social egg freezing until it's already late in the game and their options are running out. In fact, the ideal time for a woman to freeze her eggs is in her late teens or twenties, a time when her eggs are plentiful and hardy, but also a moment in a young woman's life when she is least likely to be obsessing about motherhood. "I have a half-serious joke that in the future every doting father's university graduation gift to his daughter will be a round of egg-freezing," Lockwood chuckles. But she's quite serious. "We know on current models that a third of all women who have a tertiary education are going to end up being voluntarily childless." In other words, they simply run out of time in which to make the choice and allow nature to take its course. "Egg-freezing provides a very good chance of healthy genetic motherhood for those women into their forties without facing the horror of repeated miscarriage, which tends to occur because of age and poor egg quality." Lockwood believes much of the resistance she sees toward egg freezing among conservatives like Lord Winston within her profession, is "essentially a misogynist view". "I do believe egg freezing is a feminist issue," she says. "It was the same reaction when the Pill was introduced, we were told it would destroy family life as we know it. The fact is, there will always be some men out there who hate the idea of women having the same biological freedoms that they have." The notion of egg-freezing as it relates to the broader so-called "fertility crisis" is the subject of a new play by National Theatre playwright, Jemma Kennedy.Kennedy, who is currently 42, did a round of egg-freezing when she was 39 only to find out that her egg-reserve (meaning the number of viable eggs left in her fertility basket) was uncommonly low. After spending £4,000 at a private London clinic, she ended up with just three frozen eggs, which are currently being stored for future use. While Kennedy is currently in a long-term relationship with a partner who does not want more children (he has a daughter from a previous relationship), she felt that she needed more time to decide whether she wanted to stay in her relationship or become a mother on her own. Most importantly, she does not want to allow biology to make the decision for her. Since being commissioned to write her play (which won't be staged until next year), Kennedy has spoken to dozens of women undergoing fertility treatment in their late 30s and 40s and concluded that egg freezing in particular "is about relationships, power and control. Increasingly there is a sense among women, that we use technology to defy biology in every other area of life, so why not this one too?" But the fact of the matter is, for Kennedy, biology will likely win out. Given that she has only three eggs (some of which may not be viable when it comes to doing IVF), Kennedy has been told by her fertility doctor that her chances of ever becoming a mother by this method is only about 5%. She says that, while in some ways she wishes she'd taken the initiative sooner, in another way the experience has served its purpose, which for her was a sense of exerting control over her own biological experience. "Now I've got these three little chances sitting there waiting for me. It's the potentiality that you're buying really." On the other end of the spectrum is Sarah Richards, author of the recent book Motherhood, Rescheduled: The New Frontier of Egg Freezing and the Women Who Tried It. Like Kennedy, Richards is in her early 40s, but her biological insurance policy is far more likely to pay out. When Richards was in her mid-30s, she found herself in a relationship with a man who didn't share her desire for children. As they negotiated the issue as a couple, they also decided to buy themselves some time. At the relatively young age of 36, Richards had her first round of eggs frozen. It was a success and, crucially, bought the couple more time. They shared the cost as a couple and both enjoyed the feeling that a decision had been deferred if not put off for good. However, egg-freezing isn't foolproof and Richards was sure she wanted children. After years of painful negotiations (for several months the couple actually had weekly "summit meetings" in which they would read books on parenthood and discuss the potential pros and cons of having children), Richards and her partner finally broke up. Now she was single and 38, with a basket full of eggs in the freezer. But Richards wanted more assurance than that. Since freezing her first batch of eggs in New York she'd been following developments in reproductive technology and had learned of the new fast-freeze/fast-thaw method of vitrification her first batch of eggs, frozen in 2006, would have to be thawed as they were frozen, i.e. in the much-riskier non-vitrified method. Given her age, Richards realised that time really was of the essence. With the financial help of her parents she travelled several times to Montreal, Canada, where she underwent three successive rounds of egg extraction and freezing (the cost, including her travel and accommodations, were cheaper than having the procedure done in Manhattan). Today, after spending roughly $50,000 Richards has 20 eggs on ice. Each of her eggs has about a 30 40% chance of being viable upon thawing, which means that given the good quantity and quality of her eggs Richards has a very good chance of becoming a mother should she choose it. She is also comforted by the added precaution of storing her frozen eggs in two different countries in case disaster strikes. "When you first start freezing you feel a lot of relief. There's all this tension and anxiety that suddenly dissipates because, while you still have to ultimately make the decision, the deadline has been lifted. For me, it made me really get in touch with how much I wanted kids. But it was also great for dating. I could suddenly be relaxed and confident at the prospect of a future family. It felt amazing to go out for dinner with a guy and have him ask me if I wanted kids and to shrug my shoulders and say, 'Sure, some day', instead of feeling total panic." In addition to detailing the scientific details of egg-freezing, Richards' book tells the stories of five different women who all have the procedure done for different reasons. Egg-freezing has long been done for medical reasons like cancer treatment, but women are seeking the treatment out for personal moral reasons. For some religious groups, IVF has always been a troublesome ethical issue because in most standard procedures, a number of eggs are fertilised at once and the excess embryos are either frozen or discarded. For those who believe that life begins at the moment of fertilisation, this can be deeply troubling. Egg-freezing allows doctors to isolate and fertilise only specific oocytes so excess embryos aren't wasted. According the Lockwood, it is the most common reason for egg-freezing at her clinic. Dr Peter Bowen Simpkins, a fertility specialist at the London Women's Clinic, said another reason egg-freezing is on the rise at his clinic is because of their egg-sharing programme, which he has been running for several years. This gives women under the age of 35 undergoing treatment a chance to share their eggs by donating to the clinic's egg bank much like donor sperm banks, in which donors contribute sperm for altruistic reasons. The London Women's Clinic offers a subsidised treatment rate for women who contribute to the egg-sharing programme. As the technology improves and success rates of frozen-egg pregnancies continue to rise, it makes sense that more and more women will take advantage of the treatment at a younger age leaving them more precious time to figure out their career and relationships before embarking on parenthood. But, as Winston cautions, it's important to remember that all our best efforts to cheat nature are no match for the overwhelming power of biology itself. "Infertility is not a disease but a natural process," he says, pointing out that egg-freezing and IVF, while somewhat remarkable, are still not most women's best bet at getting pregnant before the age of 40. "Most women," he argues, "would have a much easier time getting pregnant at a seaside resort." | 7 | 1,048 | health |
"It makes what's on Snapchat look old". That's the glowing review one teen gave Sup, a new app that let's you video stream your life to a friend 10-seconds at a time. But the hook is that they tell you what direction to turn or walk, morphing you into a video game they're playing. Built by the fled founders of Yahoo acquisitions Stamped and Milewise, and backed by Khosla Ventures, Sup introduces a new mechanic to social media: Interactivity. No more being a spectator of your friends' lives. Sup hands you the reins.What'Sup?Here's how the iOS app works. You send a Sup request to one or a few friends, inviting them to turn on their phone's camera and starting showing you their life. If one accepts within five minutes, you get pinged back saying they're ready to Sup. Re-open the app and you'll then get a silent, live video feed from them that lasts 10-seconds, but you can tap "Mo' Time" if you don't want the stream to end.During the Sup, you can swipe left, right, up, or down to direct them where to walk or point their phone. A selfie button lets you request they flip the camera on themselves, and you can thank or instruct them with overlayed emoticons like smile, kiss, devil, flex, and dance. While the video can be a bit low-fi at times, similar to Snapchat, recent advances in LTE and 4G connections, battery life, and camera quality make now the first time something like Sup could actually work."At first we thought we were a video company, and then we realized we were a teleportation company" co-founder and product designer Anthony Cafaro tells me. Sup's goal is to immersively transport you wherever your friend is. That's why the startup has Being John Malkovich posters up around its office. Co-founder and CEO Bart Stein says Sup can make you feel like you're shooing a movie. "Your contact list is the list of actors, you become the director."You never quite know what's on the other side of a Sup. It could be something exciting like your friend on a bustling street or at a party, or it might be something mundane like them at work or chilling at home. With the interactive element, I've tried to get friends to climb into their washing machines or descend their fire escapes, and they've made me pet my cat Kerfluffle and skateboard into pedestrians.Here's a video tutorial showing Sup in action:From The Ashes Of Yahoo AcquisitionsTo build Sup, Stein and Cafaro left the aging tech giant a year and a half after their recommendations app Stamped became Marissa Mayer's first big acquisition. Stein founded and was leading Yahoo's New York product office that Mayer dreamed up. Fellow Sup co-founder Nick Meyer departed Yahoo just a year after his frequent flyer assistant startup Milewise was bought. The fact that acquired founders are ditching Yahoo before their two-year cliff is a distressing sign for how Mayer's product culture is shaping up. But Yahoo's loss is Sup's gain.CEO Marissa Mayer poses with Yahoo's acquisition Stamped in 2012. Bart Stein (second from the right) fled Yahoo to start Sup.The original "janky prototype" of Sup took just 3.5 hours to build, so a flashy launch didn't feel right. Instead, Sup quietly raised its entire seed round from Khosla Ventures via partner Keith Rabois earlier this year and launched in the App Store two months ago. Stein said across all the fundraising he's done for startups, he's never seen VC partners giggle like Keith Rabois and the Khosla gang did. He knew he was on to something.Interactivity Is The Next Social FrontierSup's been growing 50% week over week since it launched because Stein says it's "real-world viral" people see you running around with your phone outstretched executing the commands of your friends, and they want to know what they hell you're doing.I command Sup co-founder Nick Meyer to flex. He obeys. Mwahaha.While this version is all about Seeing what's UP with your friends, soon Sup will be adding in the ability to Sup a location and get connected to the nearest user who wants to stream with strangers. Stein explains "The vision behind the company was to build a platform for live video streaming from anywhere in the world." Stein says Sup is reluctant to allow one-to-many Sups because "you only truly feel agency" when its one-on-one. But perhaps down the line it could let a crowd's consensus control the action, like in Twitch Plays Pokemon's democracy mode.Sup's novelty might wane with time, but they said the same thing about Snapchat's self-destructing photos. Just as ephemerality has proved itself an enduring style of social media, I think the interactivity demonstrated by Sup could be here to stay. "It's very different. There's a lot more that makes us human than seeing something. It's freedom and control" says Stein.With traditional social apps, you sit back and wait for content to roll into a feed, or for unsolicited messages to barge onto your screen. With Sup "You ask for the content" and can stop streaming or watching the second you get bored, says Stein. "There's nothing you don't want to see."]]> | 4 | 1,049 | lifestyle |
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz SL400 is new for 2015, and although we already knew its V-6 would make it more fuel-efficient than its V-8-powered counterparts, now we know just how frugal it is. The EPA has officially rated the SL400 at 20/27 mpg city/highway, and has also revealed numbers for the new ML400 4Matic. Powered by the same 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 found underneath the hood of the 2015 C-Class , the SL400's 20/27 mpg compares favorably to the 2015 SL550's 17/24 mpg. Of course, that's because the SL400 makes 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque compared to the SL550's 429 hp and 516 lb-ft that comes by way of a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V-8. Both engines come paired with a seven-speed automatic. Curiously, the SL550 loses one mpg in both city and highway compared to the 2014 model. Either way, the SL400 has the fuel economy advantage, and its lower cost of entry should help attract buyers. As for the ML400 4Matic that's to replace the V-8-powered ML550, the SUV achieves 18/22 mpg, which is an improvement over the 2014 ML550's 14/19 mpg. The ML400 is powered by the same twin-turbo V-6 mentioned above, meaning those wanting V-8 power from their ML will have to opt for the range-topping ML63 AMG, which will be the only V-8 variant in the U.S. The 2015 ML400 4Matic achieves one mpg more in the city compared to the ML350 4Matic , and also produces more power compared to the ML350's 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 302 hp and 273 lb-ft. But then again, the price difference between the two models is nearly $15,000. Also new for 2015 is the ML250 Bluetec, which replaces the ML350 Bluetec. That means the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 has been dropped in favor of a 2.1-liter twin-turbo I-4 diesel that puts out 200 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy numbers have not yet been released, though we can expect it to improve on the outgoing ML350 Bluetec's 20/28 mpg. Source: EPA | 9 | 1,050 | autos |
We've already driven the 300-hp 2015 BMW X4 xDrive35i and now new rumors suggest the automaker is working on a sportier X4 M40i model with a more powerful 3.0-lliter turbocharged I-6 engine. Power is expected to increase to around 355-375 hp. Unlike the larger upcoming X5 M and X6 M, the 2015 BMW X4 M40i will be an M Performance-badged model rather than a full-bore BMW M model, according to Autocar . We've heard that an X3 M40i is also in the works, so applying the same treatment to the X3's fastback sibling only makes sense. Exterior changes to the X4 M40i are expected to include black kidney grilles up front, dual exhaust tips in back, and more. While the BMW M3 and M4 are powered by a 425-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo I-6, the BMW X4 M40i will feature an upgraded version of the X4 xDrive35i 's 3.0-liter single-turbo I-6. The more powerful single-turbo engine is also rumored for the BMW M2 coupe. Potential rivals for the 2015 BMW X4 M40i include the Audi RS Q3, Mercedes-Benz ML-Coupe, and Porsche Macan Turbo. Source: Autocar Images of the 2015 BMW X4 xDrive35i are shown. | 9 | 1,051 | autos |
Tesla's trademark issues in China have been settled privately, the company said Wednesday. Tesla Motors initially attempted to enter the Chinese auto market earlier this year, but a man named Zhan Baosheng owned the rights to "Tesla Motors China," claiming to have registered the trademark back in 2006. Tesla was poised to begin sales of the Model S, having already accepted orders from interested buyers, in April, and even went so far as to set up a showroom in a Chinese mall, albeit with no company logos or Tesla branding. Now, Tesla says the issue has been settled "completely and amicably," with Baosheng agreeing to transfer over the rights to the Tesla Motors trademark, along with both tesla.cn and teslamotors.cn domain names. Tesla is wasting no time, as a quick visit to tesla.cn already redirects to the official Tesla Motors website. Bloomberg reports that Tesla has declined to divulge financial terms of the settlement. Tesla expects sales of the popular Model S sedan in China to eventually match the sales in the U.S. Once the Tesla Model X SUV is released, global sales are planned to reach 100,000 units by the end of 2015. Source: Bloomberg | 9 | 1,052 | autos |
Two body lengths. Three engines. Three roof heights. Two wheelbases. That's the large part of Ford's deceptively simple recipe for its continued stronghold of the important North American commercial vehicle market. With what contender, you ask? This, the all-new 2015 Ford Transit. Let's go back 49 years. Believe it or not, that's when the Transit was born. We never got it here in the States, but 116 markets on six continents did. They loved it so much that in those nearly five decades, they bought 7 million of them. It's been a glorious success for the Blue Oval. Fast-forward a few years to when Alan Mulally initiated the One Ford movement. You know, the globalization of Ford's products, brands, strategies, and personnel to streamline the company. The Transit is one product of the movement, which, in the transition into America, has combined with (or eliminated) the also very popular E Series van. E Series fans have every right to shed a tear or two, but then again, the Transit, as I found out on a drive in Kansas City, Missouri, fills its shoes, err, steel-toe Red Wings, quite well. Two main engineering principles were established for the North American market. Ford's previous vice president of engineering, Kumar Galhotra, now at the helm of Lincoln, insisted it was extremely durable, capable enough of fulfilling and surpassing the internal "Built Ford Tough" standard of 215 tests using 148 prototypes. It also needed to have a low cost of ownership throughout its lifetime (long service intervals, great fuel economy, excellent build quality, etc.). Ford revamped its Kansas City Assembly Plant specifically for Transit production, a move that created 2000 jobs. With all that in mind, Ford developed a unibody chassis made of high-strength and boron steel to keep weight down and performance up. Buyers can choose from cargo van or wagon configurations, in designations of 150/250/350/350 Heavy Duty, with wheelbases of 129.9 or 147.6 inches, and having roof heights of 83.6, 100.8, and 110.1 inches (which allow for cargo heights of 56.9, 72, and 81.5 inches, respectively). A 6-foot-4 person can stand inside a van with the tallest roof height, no problem. Chassis cab and cutaway versions can be ordered by commercial buyers, too, with the same wheelbase and engines. Wagoners can stuff eight, 10, 12, or 15 passengers inside, but if they ditch their passengers and jump into a long-wheelbase, extended-length, high-roof, dual-rear-wheels cargo van (aka LWB EL HR DRW), they'll have a cavernous 487.3 cubic-feet to work with. Opting for the low-roof, regular-wheelbase van doesn't penalize drivers too badly. There's still 246.7 cubic-feet to gobble plenty of stuff. Big news is the replacement of the E Series' 4.6-/5.4-liter V-8s and 6.8-liter V-10 with a base 3.7-liter V-6 (275 hp/260 lb-ft) and a range-topping 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 (310 hp/400 lb-ft) that's been cherry-picked from the F-150. The EcoBoost offers a best-in-class torque rating and has more grunt than the 5.4-liter it replaces, while the 3.7-liter can run on CNG/LPG and E85 (when properly equipped). There's also a new 3.2-liter inline-five Power Stroke turbo diesel (185 hp/350 lb-ft) based on Ford's third-generation Duratorq (Puma) architecture. It's been heavily reworked to meet U.S. standards -- the most stringent of which are found in California -- and can run on B20 biodiesel, if desired. Ninety percent of its available torque can be tapped at just 1500 rpm. Each engine is married to a six-speed automatic and is rear-wheel drive. Having smaller engines translates into bigger fuel economy efficiencies. Per the EPA, Transits having a 3.5- or 3.7-liter (low or medium roofs, standard wheelbase) will get 14/19/16 mpg in their city/highway/combined cycles. For the entry 3.7-liter engine, that's a 19 percent improvement in fuel economy compared to the E Series' 4.6-liter V-8. The benefit is even greater when comparing the 3.5 liter against the outgoing 6.8-liter 10-cylinder -- the EcoBoost is 46 percent more fuel-efficient. As of this writing, the Duratorq hasn't been rated, but given the advances made by the gasoline lineup, we'd expect some impressive final figures. With gross vehicle weight ratings spanning 8600 to 10,360 pounds, payload capacities are substantial, and in some configurations are better than those of the E Series. The cargo van's load ratings start at 2990 pounds (3.2-liter; LWB, medium roof) and max out at 4650 pounds (3.5-liter; LWB-E; high roof; dual rear wheels). Wagons can carry between 2330 pounds (3.2-liter; LWB; high roof) and 3710 pounds (3.5-liter; LWB-E; high roof; dual rear wheels). Cutaway and chassis cab buyers can expect a maximum 5790-pound payload rating. As for towing, the 3.2-liter can pull up to 7500 pounds with optional Heavy-Duty Tow Package (hitch, wiring, 4-/7-pin connector, brake controller, relay system for lights) and available 3.73 rear axle. Roof packers can tie down loads weighing up to 420 pounds. Long-wheelbase models' 50/50 hinged rear doors open 270 degrees, while those on regular-wheelbase Transits swing 180 degrees. Their opening height is a best-in-class 74.3 inches. Sliding doors are 1.5 times bigger than those of the E Series, so getting to the nicely equipped interior when curbside is easy. Inside the cargo van, you'll find manual seats wrapped in heavy-duty cloth, power windows, large sun visors, overhead console storage (except on low roof models), and rear compartment lighting. Packaged options add leather, SYNC audio, power folding/heated mirrors, load area protection (polypropylene panes on walls and doors), cruise control, and power seats, to name a few. You can opt for more airbags, windows, better audio systems, and various wheel styles. There are optional packages that prep the chassis for ambulance (heavy-duty electronics and wiring, AC), RV (deletion of content aft of B-pillar), refrigeration, or modified vehicle (heavy-duty alternator, fuses, batteries) duties. Have a need for a small bus or a shuttle? You can outfit a Transit for those purposes via Ford's online configurator. But the must-have for vans rolling atop dual rear wheels (DRW) has to be the White Painted DRW Package. It adds white painted steelies on each axle, which look, uh, way b****in'. Of course, the cargo area can accommodate a cornucopia of work-essential add-ons, both from the factory catalog or authorized aftermarket "upfit" companies. Shelving, racks, bins, lockers, LED lighting, cages -- just about anything can be added to the van's innards. But not all take up valuable acreage inside. Fleet users can have their dealer install the Crew Chief Telematics system that acts as a "black box." It gives fleet managers real-time updates on things such as fuel consumption, vehicle speed, seat belt use, location, and maintenance. The wagon gets an identical list of standard features with either the base XL or XLT designations. Right off the bat, XLT gets standard cruise control -- an option for the XL. Both come with front and rear air conditioning. The cargo area is better lit in the XLT thanks to more overhead light fixtures. The XLT also gets the Exterior Upgrade Package at no cost (chrome grille surrounds, wheel covers, headlamp trim). Options include SYNC, lane departure, rearview camera, MyKey, pewter or charcoal cloth power seats, remote start, and vinyl floor coverings. It can be prepped with a Builders Package, which eliminates rear seats and adds heavier duty electronics, or a Smokers Package, which provides a lighter and an ashtray. Owners of multiple vans have the option of equipping theirs with Crew Chief as well. Sliding into the cargo van's captain's chairs, you first notice the helm, which is a near replica of that in the Focus. It's sporty, and initially odd for such a vehicle. Nonetheless, it felt great in hand. Forward visibility was excellent given the expansive glass and elevated seating position. Storage can be found all around: high and low inside the door panels; atop the dash; inside the center console; above the driver's head in the sculpted shelves. And talk about cupholders galore. I sampled all three engines, each powering a cargo van of different heights. To get a better feel of dynamics, each held half of its maximum payload capacity. First on my docket was a Green Metallic 350 low-roof van, with the long wheelbase and the Big Daddy 3.5-liter EcoBoost aboard. The twin-turbos offered a smooth, consistent, quiet grunt that's immediately evident from takeoff. It's quick off the line thanks to the arrival of all 400 pound-feet of torque at just 2500 rpm. The concept of comfort was clearly emphasized at early engineering meetings. Soft touch materials populated the dash and key areas. The 10-way power seat had a cushiness uncommon in the segment and, most important, was extremely supportive during the test day -- essential for long real-world days of driving. Wind noise was kept to a minimum, even for such a substantial vehicle. Shifts from the SelectShift automatic were buttery smooth. At full throttle, the 3.5-liter's cabin was without copious road noise. In twisty bits, the 3.5-liter Transit was highly maneuverable and easily controllable. The front MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar, combined with the rear's progressive leaf spring and gas-charged dampers, transmitted little in terms of highway acne into the hydraulic power steering. Its ride wasn't plush; it simply lacked a harshness or loudness that's characteristic of such vans. In essence, the 3.5-liter van is the top dog, doing it all well, with great fuel efficiency and immediate power. Once away from the 3.5-liter, I jumped into the naturally aspirated Transit 250 with a medium roof and a Pueblo gold metallic paint job. This particular edition had dual-rear wheels, which gave it more heft and girth. Indeed, it felt heavier, yet no less manageable, with equal degrees of controllability. In terms of off-the-line pizzazz, it's no slug. It does feel noticeably less lively, needing extra throttle enticement to really get going. Exterior noise also infiltrated the cabin more when compared to its EcoBoost sibling. The sweetheart of the lineup happened to be the last I sampled. Its engine carries a $6040 premium over the 3.7-liter engine (that same gap is $9690 in the wagon … yikes). But, my, the low-end torque, smoothness, and overall well-sorted demeanor of this Transit 350. It's as quiet as diesels come -- and as spritely -- with a mushier throttle than those of the gasoline-fed varieties. While no fuel economy ratings have been set, the Duratorq could be choice for those wanting the best in efficiency, low-RPM grunt (350 lb-ft at 1500 rpm), and hauling/towing capacities. The flavors are many, as are the toppings. But no matter which variety is earmarked for daily duty, buyers can count on a comfortable, efficient, highly capable, nicely priced (starting at $30,560) foundation. In other words, the fiery rumble between commercial vans in America just got hotter. Hey, ProMaster, NV, Sprinter, Express -- you'd better watch out. 2015 Ford Transit BASE PRICE $30,560 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, RWD, 2-15 pass, 2-door van ENGINES 3.7L/275-hp/260-lb-ft DOHC 24-valve V-6; 3.5L/310-hp/400-lb-ft turbocharged DOHC 24-valve V-6; 3.2L/185-hp/350-lb-ft turbodiesel DOHC 20-valve I-5 TRANSMISSION 6-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT 5000-7000 lb (est) WHEELBASE 129.9-147.6 in LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT 217.8-263.9 x 83.1 x 82.2-108.6 in 0-60 MPH 7.5-8.5 sec (MT est) EPA CITY/HWY FUEL ECON 14/19 mpg ENERGY CONSUMPTION, CITY/HWY 241/177 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS 1.22 lb/mile ON SALE IN U.S. Now | 9 | 1,053 | autos |
It began when I received word of Ole Henriksen s soon-to-be-released cleansing gel, and wondered whether it would be a makeup-removing face wash (think cleansing oils) or an update on the daily cleansing cream. As it turns out, it favored the former, but by the time I had finished mentally cycling through every option, I realized that there were far more than just two types available. Some of the best I ve tried are barely recognizable as cleansers, sporting a powdery texture or applied with a dry cotton pad. What do they have in common? You can use all of them to wash your face. There are no less than eight different cleanser categories currently on the market. Here s what to buy from each one. 1. Water-Activated Powders Among the new crop of powdery exfoliants are formulas so finely milled that you can use them on a daily basis. Tatcha, for instance, makes three levels of their excellent Polished Rice Enzyme Powder ($65) the Gentle version, full of softening papaya and soothing licorice root extracts, is ideal for everyday cleansing. Add a few drops of water to the dry mix, and it turns into an airy liquid with the slightest bit of texture. It s the heart and soul of our ritual, says founder Vicky Tsai, Every skin type can benefit from daily exfoliation, whether you re looking to tighten pores, prevent breakouts or smooth fine lines. For something a little more heavy-duty, try The Clean Dirt ($60) from May Lindstrom. The dirt in question is a blend of clays, warming spices and healing salts that smells like ground-up pfeffernusse and leaves skin glowing. I mix mine with water, but Lindstrom likes to blend it with raw coconut oil for an indulgent and super nourishing treat. 2. Classic Creams Cream cleansers are the traditionalist pick, offering effective ingredients in a familiar base. M-61 s Brilliant Cleanse ($32) blends four different alpha beta hydroxy acids (chemical exfoliants) with brightening vitamin C from citrus extracts. This cleanser was the first one I created, says founder and Bluemercury CEO Marla Malcolm Beck , I wanted gentle exfoliation to remove dead surface skin cells and reduce pore size. It s creamy, so it doesn t dry your skin out. Another organic favorite is the Tata Harper Refreshing Cleanser ($75) , which comes in a pretty glass pump-bottle that I frequently hope my houseguests don t mistake for hand soap. Harper tells me that she looks forward to using the creamy orange wash every morning because of its invigorating, bright citrus scent that boosts the mood. The formula contains a combination of essential oils and clays, perfect for those with sensitive skin. 3. Hot Cloth Cleansers Liz Earle calls itself Britain s best-kept beauty secret, but their Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser ($25) is more of a widely known cult favorite. You massage the thick lotion over dry skin before wiping it off with one of the included muslin cloths soaked in hot water for the simplest form of manual exfoliation. The two-step method removes everything, waterproof mascara included. 4. Micellar Waters This could be considered cheating, but there exists a no-rinse alternative to washing your face, gentler than face wipes and (of course) French. You may have heard of Bioderma Crealine, the version most frequently mentioned by makeup artists and models when questioned about their daily routines. My latest discovery also French is the Orlane Vitality Radiance Micellar Water ($45) . It s transparent as water and as effective as cleansing milks, enthuses Paris-based Managing Director Raffaella Giraudi, You can use it at night by pumping the water directly onto a cotton pad and removing makeup, or in the morning to cleanse and prepare the skin. 5. Cleansing Oils Dermalogica director of global education Annet King believes in washing your face twice. Start out with a water soluble, oil-based cleanser, she instructs. This is where PreCleanse ($38) comes in coincidentally, the lightweight formula is also incredibly good at removing waterproof makeup. For those unfamiliar with the oil cleansing method, start by applying the product to dry skin, then wet it to emulsify before rinsing off. Pollution, daily sweat, sebum and sunscreen all coat the skin, says King, Not cleansing thoroughly results in dry patches, congestion and blackheads. PreCleanse thoroughly dissolves oil, as it s made of oil. I ve even used it to remove tar and oil-based paint. 6. Emulsifying Gels Emulsifying gels are the semisolid cousin to cleansing oils, using the same method to melt away stubborn makeup. Recently, I previewed Ole Henriksen s Pure Truth Melting Cleanser ($36), a vibrant orange jelly packed with vitamin C, rose hips and virgin cherry oil. It starts as a gelée, then transforms into an oil when massaged onto the skin, finally turning to a milk when water is applied, explains Henriksen. The cleanser launches August 21, so in the meantime, try Natura Bissé Diamond White Rich Luxury Cleanse ($135) . The clear gel contains no diamonds, but smells of candied lavender and is so thick it practically cushions the face. The finishing touch: the gratuitous tiny spatula that tends to accompany the priciest creams, an assurance that you re getting your money s worth. 7. Foaming Gels Not to be confused with emulsifying gels, this gentle formula is an alternative to the cream cleanser. Kat Burki s Ocean Mineral Face Wash ($34) uses coconut oil and saponins from Gotu Kola for a natural foaming effect that doesn t strip skin of moisture. It has raw ingredients like aloe leaf juice, sage and rosemary in a water soluble face wash, says Burki, The ocean minerals and trace elements are blended with herbs that activate enzymes, entrap impurities and leave skin bright, fresh and calm. 8. Bar Soaps Using a bar of soap to clean your face sounds unappealing, but if you do it with one of Osmia Organics all-natural offerings, it becomes thoroughly enjoyable. Their Black Clay Facial Soap ($24) is a personal favorite, calming the skin when it overproduces oil during the warmer months while maintaining hydration. Founder Sarah Villafranco credits this balance to a blend of Dead Sea mud, Australian black clay, essential oils and coconut milk leaves. If you want to sample the latest from her line, try the Luz Enzyme Facial Soap ($24) , which contains organic pumpkin and tomato enzymes to gently slough away the top layer of skin. Luz means light in Spanish, Villafranco tells me, This little bar helps your skin glow. Just lather, rinse and repeat. Follow me on Twitter and Forbes . | 7 | 1,054 | health |
Last time I was at Maranello, Ferrari boss Luca Cordero di Montezemolo was rumored to be considering running for office. It was a rumor everyone in Italy took seriously. A lawyer born into an aristocratic family, Montezemolo has a reputation for making things work, whether it be Italy's most famous carmaker, the World Cup soccer tournament the country hosted in 1990, or the high-speed train network he founded in 2006. He also has a reputation for being a calculating politician. Witness his widely reported threats to withdraw Ferrari from Formula 1 grand prix racing earlier this year. Montezemolo says he's deeply unhappy with the direction motor sport's elite category has taken in 2014. He thinks the switch to hybrid powertrains is a mistake, because they've made the cars too quiet. And he rejects the notion that fuel efficiency or tire management has any place in F1. "People watch racing to be entertained," Montezemolo told Wall Street Journal writer Dan Neil during an interview shortly before the 24 Hours of Le Mans race earlier this year in which he hinted Maranello might consider returning to top-level sports car racing. "No one wants to watch a driver save gas or tires. They want to see them push from here to there. It's a sport, yes, but also a show." After some thrilling races this year, you could argue there's not a lot wrong with the "show," though the Ferrari chairman's litany of complaints includes some valid points. The restriction on powertrain development during the season -- a rule designed to contain costs -- doesn't make sense given the fiendish complexity of the new hybrid technologies involved. F1 teams should be allowed to improve both the performance and reliability of their powertrains using lessons learned in the heat of competition. The view that grand prix racing has taken a wrong turn is resonating with F1 insiders alarmed that TV audiences -- the lifeblood of this insanely expensive sport, where even a mid-pack team spends $130 million a year -- appear to be continuing to shrink. (Though others wonder whether demographic shifts might equally be to blame.) But altruism is a commodity rarely found in F1: If Ferraris were winning races, would Montezemolo be so publicly concerned about the future of the sport? The storied Scuderia Ferrari is having a truly miserable 2014. Drivers with the preternatural talent of world champions Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen are being humbled by a chronic lack of grip and an embarrassing lack of power. When Nico Hulkenberg's mid-pack, Mercedes-powered Force India racer effortlessly blew by Alonso's Ferrari during the Bahrain Grand Prix, a grim-faced Montezemolo stormed out of the pit garage in disgust. Montezemolo hates losing. But despite his grousing, Ferrari's not quitting grand prix racing. Thanks to a long-standing sweetheart deal, Ferrari is handed 2.5 percent of the F1 prize pool -- reportedly $17.5 million last year -- before any other team gets paid a dime. Beyond that, however, the truth is Maranello needs F1 as much as F1 needs its scarlet racers. Ferrari's special relationship with grand prix racing -- it is the only team to have competed in F1 every year since the modern World Championship was created in 1950 -- adds luster to the legend Enzo Ferrari created, and dollars to the price of every road car that rolls off the high-tech assembly lines in Italy. And Ferrari works obsessively to maintain the mystique, to the point where it routinely refuses to allow automotive media outlets to properly test its road cars. Drive impressions are fine, but requests to run numbers are almost invariably declined. A comparison test? Forget it. The view from Maranello is that a Ferrari must never be allowed to lose. But in F1 there's nowhere to hide, and it's painfully obvious this year's Ferrari racer is a dog. And there's nothing Montezemolo can do about it. Except play politics. The 2014 F1 season continues on August 24, at the Belgian Grand Prix. More from The Big Picture: Want Ultimate Performance? You Need a Hybrid Land Rover Reinvents An Icon Beyond Infiniti | 9 | 1,055 | autos |
A Chrysler representative told us last month that he was doubtful of the Chrysler 300 SRT sedan's future due to its slow sales. The car's future may still be in doubt, but new spy photos suggest that the high-performance sedan could be around for at least a little while longer. A pair of refreshed 2015 Chrysler 300 prototypes was spotted in Detroit, with one vehicle looking more performance-oriented. Despite the camouflage, we can tell the potential Chrysler 300 SRT8 model sports a new wire mesh grille with extra material covering what appears to be a grille emblem -- possibly an SRT badge. A redesigned lower fascia and front lip can also be made out. The first prototype also sports red Brembo brake calipers with slotted rotors peeking out from behind a set of large five-spoke alloy wheels, which sport a black finish and are shod with Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. A pair of large round exhaust tips and a trunk lid spoiler also hints at the car's high-performance potential. Our photographer likened the prototype's exhaust note to "thunder," booming as the driver tried to escape the camera. However, it's unlikely this prototype had the Hellcat engine . The second prototype is less aggressive and features a revised grille and front fascia with new fog lights. The Chrysler wing badge now floats just below its former position at the top of the grille. Around back, this prototype sports revised taillights, a new bumper, and trapezoidal exhaust tips. Photo Source: Chris Doane Automotive | 9 | 1,056 | autos |
Last month, Chrysler recalled the Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Dodge Journey for an ignition switch issue similar to the one involved in GM's massive recall, and since the minivans are mechanically related to the Volkswagen Routan, the German automaker has issued a recall as well. The Problem: The ignition switch in certain 2009 Volkswagen Routans may inadvertently move out of the "run" position and turn off the engine, essentially disabling the operation of the airbag system in the event of a crash. Power steering and power braking may also become disabled. Volkswagen says bumpy road conditions or some other jarring event could cause the switch to move, and until the recall is performed, the automaker is encouraging owners to remove all items from the key ring so that only the ignition key is left. The Fix: Volkswagen dealers will fix the ignition switch for free. Owners will start receiving notifications this month, but they can also call Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 18,526 2009 Volkswagen Routans built from June 2008 to July 2010. Source: NHTSA | 9 | 1,057 | autos |
McLaren Special Operations will roll a one-off P1 hypercar onto the lawn at Pebble Beach next week. In addition to getting a unique exterior and interior treatment, the MSO-styled McLaren P1 sports 24-carat gold heat shields in the engine bay and around the exhaust outlet. The special P1 was commissioned by a North American customer, and will be displayed publicly for the first time next week. The car's exterior is finished in an exclusive Sterling Grey paint, and accented by McLaren Orange and gloss carbon fiber pieces. Large orange brake calipers peek from behind the P1's body-colored wheels. In the engine bay, 24-carat gold is used as heat shielding for its reflective and heat-resistant properties. Gold was used in the McLaren F1 for the same purpose, as well as in McLaren's Formula 1 cars. Inside, carbon fiber and Alcantara is used extensively. The cabin gets a bespoke MSO steering wheel, lightweight carbon shell racing seats, four-point harnesses, and Custom Satin Nickel-finished vents. Though its styling is unique, the special McLaren P1 uses the same 904-hp twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-8 hybrid drivetrain as the other 170 hypercar examples built so far. MSO is displaying this model at Pebble to show what it can do with the P1. MSO is also bringing a one-off version of the MSO 650S Spider that debuted at Goodwood earlier this summer. The car was the result of a design collaboration between McLaren Newport Beach and McLaren design director Frank Stephenson. The car is painted Cerulean Blue, a color designed by MSO that includes heavy metal flake with a deep gloss shine. Carbon fiber is again used heavily on the exterior, appearing on the front bumper, side air intakes, rear diffuser, and the center of the rear bumper. Both one-off cars make their debut next week at Pebble Beach, where they will be joined by the new McLaren P1 GTR design concept. Source: McLaren | 9 | 1,058 | autos |
Another day, another GM recall . The automaker issued recalls today covering more than 300,000 GM vehicles around the world from a wide range of brands and model lines. Take a look below to see what vehicles are affected this time. Saturn VUE The Problem: Certain 2002-2004 model-year Saturn VUEs may have a defect allowing the ignition key to be removed even when the key is not in the off position. The Fix: Owners will be contacted, and dealers will inspect and if necessary, replace the ignition cylinder and provide the owner with a new set of keys at no charge. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 202,115 2002-2004 Saturn VUE models. GM is aware of two crashes and one injury as a result of this defect. Cadillac ATS and Buick Encore The Problem: On affected 2013 Cadillac ATS and 2013 Buick Encore models, the front outboard pretensioner cables will retract as normal when needed, but will not lock, causing the belt to return under load. The result is increased occupant movement in certain accidents. The Fix: Owners will be contacted, and dealers will replace the seatbelt tensioners free of charge. GM has issued a stop-sale on unsold models still at dealers until the issue is resolved. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 48,059 2013 Cadillac ATS and 2013 Buick Encore models have been affected. GM is not aware of any crashes or injuries as a result of this defect. Chevrolet Impala The Problem: Some 2014-2015 Impala LT and LTZ models with front console storage may have the door of the storage pop open during a rear collision. The Fix: GM has issued a stop-sale on existing Impalas on dealer lots, and will have dealers implement the repair before they can be sold. Owners will also be notified for a no-cost fix at their nearest GM dealer. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 14,940 2014-2015 Chevrolet Impala LT and LTZ models are affected. GM knows of no crashes or injuries as a result of this defect. Chevrolet Aveo and Pontiac G3 The Problem: On some 2009-2010 Chevrolet Aveo and 2009 Pontiac G3s are being recalled for a brake fluid issue, which could potentially lead to longer brake pedal travel and the chance for reduced braking performance. A Customer Satisfaction Program concerning this issue was addressed in 2012, and GM has decided to reclassify it as a safety recall -- likely in response to Hyundai's recent NHTSA fine for its handling of a similar problem. The Fix: GM will notify owners who previously did not participate in the Customer Satisfaction Program, and direct them to the nearest GM dealership for a no-cost fix. Number of Vehicles Affected: 1968 2009-2010 Chevrolet Aveo and 2009 Pontiac G3 models are potentially affected. GM is not aware of any crashes or injuries relating to this issue. Chevrolet Spark The Problem: A number of 2014 Chevrolet Spark models have been recalled for the left and right lower control arm attaching bolts, which may not have been tightened to specification. The Fix: GM has contacted owners to have them transport their Spark to dealers, where the bolts will be inspected to ensure they have been tightened to proper specification. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: 1919 2014 Chevrolet Sparks have been included in this recall. GM knows of no crashes or injuries relating to this problem. In total, the new recalls affect 269,001 vehicles in the U.S., but once cars from elsewhere in the NAFTA region and around the world are factored in, the total comes to 307,079. Source: GM | 9 | 1,059 | autos |
It seems like just yesterday that the Chevrolet Cruze was given a mild face-lift for the 2013 model year, but considering the Chevy competes in the cutthroat compact sedan segment, it was long overdue for an update. The Cruze has become a one of the top sellers in its segment Link text.... , so with that in mind, the automaker made some changes to try and keep the Cruze looking sharp. We take a look at the differences below. It's hard to miss the 2015 Cruze sedan's biggest change since it's right in your face. The refreshed Cruze proudly wears the new Chevrolet sedan corporate grille, which has been pulled from the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu and 2014 Chevrolet Impala. The new front end also includes a redesigned lower front fascia with low-mounted LED daytime running lamps that are available as an option. Even though the 2015 Cruze keeps the same headlights as the outgoing model, the overall front end looks sleeker than the older Cruze. From the side, the different front end makes its nose appear more rounded, while the same also goes for the rear. The squared off trunk on the outgoing model has been smoothed out on the 2015 Cruze, making it appear like it's filled out. From behind, the 2015 Cruze hasn't changed much. The 2015 Cruze's interior changes are just as minimal as the ones made to the exterior. Revised cup holders contribute to a slightly different appearance, while the trunk release switch gets moved to the center console. Door lock switches have also been moved from the center console to the front doors. Other than that, the cabin keeps the same overall appearance as the 2014 Cruze. The Chevrolet Cruze was long overdue for an update, so do you think the revisions made to the 2015 were enough to keep it looking relevant? Let us know in the comments below. Last week, we asked readers whether the 2015 Ferrari California T was refreshing or revolting , and most appeared to agree that it was refreshing, though there were a couple people who weren't on the same page. "Refreshing. The updated grille, tail lights, and rear end certainly look better than on the current model," said Kvnceleste. "Much improved, and almost back to being the simplistic beauty the prancing horse is known for," said TheWeatherWarrior . Although Nova LS agreed that the new car looked better than its predecessor, he didn't like one particular aspect of it. "I like it a lot actually, much better than the previous, but I don't really like the taillights." Mark Hillard , on the other hand, wasn't impressed. "The design and what this is supposed to bring to the table doesn't impress me, there are many better alternatives with the same exclusivity within reason." | 9 | 1,060 | autos |
The NHTSA promised to hold automakers accountable for safety defects when it fined GM $35 million for the ignition problem that took more than 10 years to address, and now the agency has followed through by fining Hyundai $17.35 million for not properly carrying out a brake recall. The defect in question involves corrosion in "critical brake system components," according to the NHTSA. The corrosion can reduce braking effectiveness, and affects 2009-2012 Hyundai Genesis sedans. Hyundai originally issued a service campaign instead of a full recall, which instructed dealers to replace brake fluid in affected cars without explaining to customers what would happen if it wasn't changed. According to NHTSA, Hyundai knew in 2012 that the Genesis' brake fluids didn't sufficiently protect against corrosion, but didn't issue a recall until it was pressed by the agency following owner complaints of braking problems and an ensuing investigation. The NHTSA notes that there have been no fatalities related to the defect, though six owners reported collisions that injured two. As of January 14, 2014, Hyundai has received 87 owner complaints about the Genesis, most citing braking difficulty. "Safety is our top priority, and all automakers should understand that there is no excuse for failing to report a safety-related defect, as required by law," U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a release. "This Administration will act aggressively and hold automakers accountable when they put the American public at risk." Foxx had similarly harsh words for GM when it fined the American automaker the maximum amount of $35 million earlier this year. In April, Foxx proposed raising the maximum fine for slow execution of recalls to $300 million as a stronger deterrent for automakers. Many manufacturers have taken Foxx's warning seriously, as safety recalls for even the most minor of problems have been issued on almost a weekly basis following GM's ignition fiasco. Hyundai has agreed to pay the fine, and as part of a consent order also agrees to "make improvements to its process of identifying, reporting, and communicating safety-related defects in a timely manner." The automaker will form a U.S. Technical Committee, which will review potential Hyundai recalls and make decisions on carrying them out. Hyundai will then be responsible for responding to the recalls based on the committee's recommendations. Source: NHTSA | 9 | 1,061 | autos |
Nearly 140,000 owners of the 2.2 million vehicles affected by GM's faulty ignition recall can't be located, Automotive News reports. The information comes from a filing GM made with federal safety regulators saying that about 6 percent of the recall notices sent were returned as undeliverable. Additionally, the owners of 18 recalled cars are unknown. According to GM's recall website, 683,056 ignition switches have been replaced. That equates to about 27 percent of the 2.6 million affected cars around the world. According to the numbers from the previous report, dealers are replacing about 10,000 switches per day. Ignition supplier Delphi Automotive is expected to send GM 2 million switches by the end of August and the automaker expects to have a significant number replaced by October. In May, GM agreed with regulators to find as many affected owners as possible to have their faulty ignition components replaced. Those methods include reaching out to non-English-speaking owners and using various forms of media as well as a continually updated website. GM is also required to file bi-weekly updates regarding the repairs in addition to the standard quarterly updates. According to the latest filing, more than half of vehicles affected by 12 recalls issued in 2014 have been inspected or repaired. The largest of those recalls covers transmission oil cooler lines on 500,000 full-size pickups and SUVs. Just 11,000 of the 365,000 inspected vehicles needed repairs. GM has struggled to notify owners of other recalled vehicles, though the numbers are smaller. The automaker was able to reach all but 1 percent of 1.2 million owners of larger crossovers regarding an airbag recall, while only 10 of more than 50,000 notices related to a recall for the 2013 Cadillac SRX were returned. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) | 9 | 1,062 | autos |
The response to the episode of Motor Trend's "J-Turn" in which Jessi Lang discusses her accident in Germany and her long and still ongoing recovery generated hundreds of comments and emails in support. There were some questions in there, too. Lang agreed to answer the most popular. Why choose to share this story now? Many would just want to try to move on and would probably tire of talking about it. I'm sharing the story now because I'm finally healthy enough to do so. My mind was a mess from the meds until March, and I only began learning how to walk again in April. As for why I've chosen to share the story: It happened. It wasn't a fender bender or a minor incident. It was catastrophic and I'm forever changed. Not discussing it wasn't an option for me. Furthermore, I have an on-camera job I love and viewers I adore viewers who wanted to know why my show suddenly stopped airing a year ago. Viewers who sent me emails asking, "Where's The J-Turn?" and telling me they missed me. They'll never know how much those messages meant to me and how many times they arrived in my inbox when I needed them most. I also hoped that my story could somehow help others. This experience made me feel very isolated and alone as though no one could understand what I was going through, or conceptualize the way living in constant pain can chip away at your soul and your psyche. I wanted to share this, in part, to say to everyone who's been there and to everyone who's there now that I'm here, and I get it, and there's no shame in talking about it. I need support, too, and in reaching out to others, I hoped they'd reach back out to me. I'd like to start a Trauma and Titanium Implant Support Group, in fact, which I say with a smile, but mean whole-heartedly. You've come a long way, and still have a long road. How are Bjorn from ABT and the driver of the other car doing? Bjorn sustained an injury a lumbar vertebra fracture but thankfully, he didn't need to have surgery and was able to return to work in October. He's doing well and, just last month, we had the chance to reunite, which was wonderful for both of us. That's him with me in the photo. The other driver was also injured, but it's our understanding that he is alright. I didn't mention either of their injuries in the video because they didn't choose to publicly discuss the accident; I did, and they deserved to have their privacy protected. (Bjorn gave me permission to disclose in this Q&A his specific injury.) Do you ever experience anger for the other driver? Are you involved in any legal action against him or her? Yes, I've felt anger…lots of powerful, useless anger. But I try to lean on gratitude and compassion to move through it. I tell myself, "Your company flew you to Germany to do what you love most, and on day two, while driving a half-a-million-dollar supercar, something went terribly wrong. Your problems are privileges." When I feel anger toward the other driver, I try to relate to him. That's why I say at the beginning of my video that, "We're all only human, and reminding myself of that has been helping me get through this." We all make mistakes; I've made hundreds. And I know he didn't intentionally mean to cause an accident. Thinking of it that way helps. I have not taken any legal action against him. A few readers have commented that you may have been speeding illegally, or that you were not actually on the unrestricted autobahn. Talk about that a bit. I was not driving recklessly and I did not break any laws. The other driver accepted responsibility for the accident. Pre-accident, what was your favorite "J-Turn" moment? I'll never forget drifting Bentleys on ice in Finland, or flat-footing that Hennessey Camaro ZL1, or tackling a stock car's Jerico dog box at Infineon Raceway. But racing at Daytona was one of the highlights of my life. The high banks felt like home in a way that made me question where I lived, and I will never forget that feeling. What's still on your automotive bucket list? My bucket list is always growing. I want to learn how to build engines, and become adept at wrenching. I want to race at Daytona again, and I want to compete in a rally. I want to drive an amphibious vehicle and man a monster truck. I want to challenge my Motor Trend colleagues to a drifting competition and a road course race. I want to meet Michèle Mouton and I want to drive with her. I could go on for a while here… Anything else you'd like to say? I've been criticized for not thanking the doctors or medical personnel who helped me throughout these months, but when I first began putting this video together, I had an endless list: I wanted to thank ABT for building an indestructible roll cage, and the woman who picked me up and carried me away from the car; I wanted to thank every German surgeon who treated me, every nurse who answered my call button, and my incredible hospital roommate who has become my lifelong friend. I wanted to thank the US trauma surgeons, and the neurologists, and the orthopedic surgeons, and the vascular surgeons, and the physical therapists, and the speech pathologists, and all the nurses. I wanted to thank every driving school I've ever attended, every instructor from whom I've learned, and every person who was there for me throughout this ordeal especially my mom and stepdad. The list was long and just when I would think it was complete, I'd remember another person whose name needed mentioning. As I began obsessing about it, some of these individuals themselves reminded me that I thank them all the time, as it should be done: in person, face to face, and with sincerity. | 9 | 1,063 | autos |
It's every parent's dream to give their children the world, and you did it. Unfortunately, now that Junior and his sister are adults, the toys they want are expensive and their needs are endless. A new house, a second car, a family vacation and braces for the kids are just a few of the items on their long list of things they want but can't afford unless you help pay for them. The problem is, if you keep the cash flow coming, your retirement is going to be in jeopardy . It's an increasingly common dilemma that was decades in the making. Often, it starts when the kids are young. Remember when your son was a little boy, and you always made sure he had money in his pocket? When he wanted a car, you bought it. When he went to college, you paid for it. The same rules applied to your daughter. When she wanted a new dress, you pulled out a charge card. When she wanted that vacation with her friends, you gave her the money. Now that the kids are all grown up, they remember the lesson that you taught them: put your hand out when you need money, because mom and dad will fill it up with cash. Just Say "No" What can you do? The simple answer is that, until you learn to say "No", your kids are never going to learn how to handle money responsibly. Of course, stopping the handouts and starting to teach financial responsibility is sometimes easier said that done. If you've been generous about giving handouts to your kids, they have probably gotten used to the comfortable lifestyle that you and your spouse worked so hard to achieve, but they didn't see, or were too young to remember, the days when you didn't have money. Now that they are old enough to understand, it's a good time to talk to them about how you struggled to get by on small salaries earlier in your life. For example, it's time to let them know that the house you live in took three decades to pay off, or that your parents (their grandparents) are still living and are approaching an age where you may need to provide them with financial assistance . Kids Flying The Coop… If you are one of the lucky 50% of the population with adult children ages 18 to 24 that have actually left the nest and are living on their own, cutting off the cash flow is a bit easier. Start the process by having a frank conversation about all of the issues covered in the previous paragraph. From there, ask the kids to put some serious thought into their lives. Where do they want to live? What do they want to drive? How often do they want to go on vacation? What are they going to do to earn that lifestyle? …Or Refusing to Empty the Nest If your adult children are still living at home (often referred to now as boomerangs or KIPPERS ), it's time to start charging rent. Sooner or later, the kids need to learn that there are no free rides in life. From there, it's time to talk about financial self-sufficiency. Have the kids explain what they are going to do in order to support themselves. How do they plan to fund their golden years? What will they do if their kids expect a lifetime of financial support? How will they handle it if their children's financial handouts make it impossible for them to achieve their post-work dreams? Financial Lessons 101 Regardless of where the kids live, talk to them about their lifestyle choices. Explain the importance to live within (or even below) their means . Teach them that anything they can't buy with their own salaries is an item they can't afford. Talk to them about the responsible use of credit cards. If you work with a financial services professional, set up a meeting so that your children can begin to learn about managing their money too. For holidays and birthdays, how about giving your child the gift of financial security with books about finances or subscriptions to the financial publications that you read? Last but not least, cut off the cash flow. The Bank of Mom and Dad Stop funding discretionary purchases. If the kids don't need the money to avoid eviction or starvation, don't give it to them. If they do need it to avoid such an emergency, make it clear that you expect to be repaid, and either make a payment plant or set a date for the repayment. Ask them to explain how they intend to change their lifestyles to avoid the need for another loan. Share a copy of this article with them so they can understand how their greed is hurting their parents. While this economic lesson may be emotionally tough medicine to administer, it will give your children the knowledge they need to survive long after you aren't there or able to pay the bills. If your kids are ungrateful in the short term, they will learn to appreciate the lessons in the long term - after all, you probably had to learn the hard way too. | 3 | 1,064 | finance |
Windows Phone's app catalog may not be as extensive as what you'll find on Android or iOS, but you won't be hurting for choices any time soon. Microsoft has quietly revealed that the Windows Phone Store racked up over 300,000 apps as of this past June, or nearly twice what it had a year earlier. It had 200,000 apps as of December, so the rate is clearly accelerating -- half of its library appeared in the past several months. There are also 50 percent more developers, Microsoft adds, which means that many of the new titles are from first-timers. The expansion will definitely help if you're considering a Windows Phone, especially since it includes big-name titles like Instagram and Vine. With that said, there's still a long way to go before Microsoft fills in all the gaps. A quick look at the store shows that many top apps either come from Microsoft or are unofficial replacements for missing software, like Snapchat and YouTube. The quantity helps, but quality is still an issue -- it's hard to switch from rival platforms when you may have to give up a favorite service or utility. Source: Microsoft Disclaimer: Bing Apps is published by Microsoft | 4 | 1,065 | lifestyle |
Listening to 50 Cent's "In Da Club" has always been perfect for when it's your birthday, for when you're sipping Bacardi or when it's not your birthday, but now you can add right before a job interview to that list. A study conducted by the Society For Personality And Social Psychology tested "high-power" and "low-power" music on a group of subjects. "High-power" music included 50 Cent's "In Da Club," Queen's "We Will Rock You" and 2 Unlimited's "Get Ready For This," while "low-power" music included Biggie's "Big Poppa," Fatboy Slim's "Because We Can," and Baha Men's "Who Let The Dogs Out?". The results suggested that those who listened to the "high-power" or bass-heavy music felt more confident and powerful when going into interviews and meetings, while those listening to the "low-power" music felt meeker, and made more mistakes in a test measuring abstract thinking. "Just as professional athletes might put on empowering music before they take the field to get them in a powerful state of mind, you might try [this] in certain situations where you want to be empowered," wrote Derek Rucker, a professor of marketing at the Kellogg School of Management. Science rules! This article originally appeared in The Huffington Post | 4 | 1,066 | lifestyle |
Where is the automobile headed in our gradually warming world? Fully electric like the Chevy Spark, Nissan Leaf, or Mercedes SLS AMG Electric Drive? Plug-in hybrid like the Chevy Volt, Ford Energi models, or Porsche 918? Flying cars like the Terrafugia Transition? Something else entirely? One thing's for sure: Wherever it's headed, folks buying at the pointy end of the price pyramid will get there first and help field-test the tech for the rest of us. If you have both the means and the inclination to live your automotive life on the green-tech bleeding edge -- or if you need the world to think that's how you roll allow us to present the two most compelling options available today. The reigning green-car champ is the surprisingly high-performance, fully electric Tesla Model S P85+. The car world's lone successful Silicon Valley startup earned Motor Trend's 2013 Car of the Year calipers on the strength of its M5-like driving dynamics, giant iPad-esque user interface, innovative optional 5+2 seating, front and rear trunks, and epic 265-mile EPA-rated battery range. And during the year we've spent driving a long-term Model S , the expanding network of Superchargers has made long-distance electric travel (at least in our bottom half of California) a surprising reality. But the Tesla just looks like a car, so maybe you fear your less auto-inclined peers won't fully appreciate your cutting edginess. To wow them, perhaps the racy/spacey new BMW i8 is just the thing. It boasts abundant visual excitement, from its wide, low stance and A-pillar-hinged scarab beetle-wing doors to jarring surface details such as those carved-out rear side channels exiting above the taillights and the mix of piano black, anodized blue, and the body color of your choice covering various parts of the car. Open those nifty doors and the carbon fiber that constitutes the "Life Module" body structure is prominently displayed. A plug-in port allows you to pump in enough electrons to drive a gingerly 23 miles in near silence before the impressively powerful gas-fueled three-banger turbo kicks in. We'll grant you that comparing an upright 5-7-seater with a low-slung 2+2 is unconventional, but then so are the cars. And with as-tested prices that fall within 10 percent of each other, these green-tech marvels are aimed at customers with similar demographic and psychographic profiles. Mind you, the base prices are further separated -- $94,570 for the Tesla, $136,650 for the i8. But by the time a Motor Trend-grade car enthusiast runs through the Tesla options list speccing must-haves such as the $8750 performance-tuned air suspension, the $4500 21-inch gray performance-plus wheels shod in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires, $2500 worth of performance seats, and a few more sybaritic options, the price can escalate quickly, as ours did, to $126,520. The i8 comes pretty fully loaded with only three option packages -- Giga World ($2000 -- our test sample), Terra World ($3000), and Pure Impulse World ($10,800). Each package upgrades the width of the staggered-fitment 20-inch wheels and ups the interior opulence. Which of these electrified futuremobiles should you purchase? There's room in the ultimate Earth First enthusiast's garage for both, as their merits are complementary. But we'll train our critical eyes on each to help you decide which one to buy first. Performance It's hard to believe that a low-slung, 3378-pound carbon-fiber car with a turbo engine, all-wheel drive, and two electric motors lugging just 9.3 pounds per total system horsepower plus six gears' worth of torque multiplication couldn't just run away and hide from a big, upright, 4633-pound (11.1 pounds per horse), rear-drive electric hatchback with a one-speed transmission -- but in fact it can't. The Tesla's peak torque at 0 rpm makes for a great hole-shot, and it travels just 20 inches farther than the i8 to reach 30 mph. It actually reaches 60 mph 8 inches ahead of the i8, though 0.1 second slower than the i8's 3.8-second time. By the quarter mile, the Tesla is running out of leverage from the one-speed, so its trap speed trails the i8's, but the time is still close: 12.5 seconds at 108.4 mph compared with the i8's 12.4 at 112.1. In the grip department, the Tesla continues to amaze, managing to halt from a 60-mph clip 1 foot shorter than the BMW (102 feet versus 103). Bend them into a turn, however, and the lighter (more evenly weight-balanced) i8 takes the lead, generating 0.94 g of lateral grip to the Tesla's 0.91. That cornering advantage allowed the BMW to carry a bit more speed through the ends of our figure-eight course, while the AWD helped it claw its way out more quickly, carrying a 4-5 mph advantage on the Model S at corner exits. This added up to a scant 0.2-second advantage (24.6 to 24.8) with a tie in overall average lat/long g at 0.80. Again, unimaginably close performance for such disparate vehicle types. Let's give the advantage to BMW, by the slimmest of margins. Driving Dynamics Wriggle down into the i8's thin-shell but supportive driver seat (if you're reading car magazines you're already too big for its rear seats), pull down the door, and buckle the KLM-blue seat belt. The outré cockpit design, low seating position, and the surprisingly sonorous thrum (thanks partly to electronic enhancement) from the turbo-triple behind will have you expecting something special. Pop the gear lever down into Drive, then left to engage the Sport mode (turning the gauges orange and swapping the power-use meter for a proper tach), and hit the gas. Any fears that this car shares its i3 sibling's lack of driving verve are quickly laid to rest. The i8 is BMW's affordable alternative to the Porsche 918, McLaren P1, or Ferrari LaDitto, returning a considerably higher percentage of those cars' performance than the purchase-price ratio predicts. Senior editor Lieberman gushed, "I love the effect that super-rigid carbon-fiber tubs have on a car's steering. Think McLaren 650S, Alfa Romeo 4C, and even the super high-miler Volkswagen XL1. Slop is simply reduced. In terms of steering feel and accuracy, the i8 is as good as most sports cars." The low center of gravity, low mass, and near-perfect 49/51 percent front/rear weight distribution give the i8 exotic sports-car handling, with thanks again to the ultra-rigid chassis -- little or no cost to ride quality. Bumps are absorbed with an uncanny suppleness. In fact, most of us drove the car at length before studying the performance figures and were somewhat shocked to discover what big numbers this calm, cool, collected car puts down. The Tesla won its 2013 COTY calipers at least as much on the strength of its driving dynamics as it did on its innovation and green cred, and we continue to be impressed by its better-than-BMW-M5 braking, handling, and 0-60 performance. The Model S P85+ equipped with all the Sport kit makes less of a secret of its performance, with its immense launch torque serving as its supersedan bona fides. But when you climb up out of an i8 and slide into the Tesla, it's bound to feel "gigantic. Like a motorhome," as Lieberman put it, adding, "The steering feels relatively numb." Detroit editor Scott Burgess concurred, saying the Model S "feels top heavy" by comparison. Brake feel on the Tesla was judged superior to the i8's, largely because there's no regen from the pedal. (All of that happens when you lift off the accelerator.) But some of the Tesla's handling prowess is earned by its low-profile 21-inch PS2 tires, which degrade the ride on lumpy surfaces to "rough and rocky," as Lieberman characterized it. Finally -- and not that most folks will ever care -- while the i8 was able to survive two hot laps of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca with Randy Pobst at the helm before the battery assist (and hence AWD corner-exiting prowess) was gone, a previous Tesla's electrical system overheated before the end of one lap, diminishing power. Here the i8 scores a larger victory. To Live With You can't reach all your destinations via Mulholland Drive or the Tail of the Dragon, and on straight, flat, traffic-choked roads, that rigid carbon-fiber Life Module transmits a whole lotta road noise, making the Model S interior sound like the Vatican library by comparison. The Tesla's $2500 Ultra High Fidelity sound system playing content sourced from your personal devices or directly from the Internet via that gorgeous jumbotron iPad make this the place to be. Make sure to take a long test-sit in those $2500 performance seats, however, as Burgess found them far less comfy than the i8's base chairs. We all found the rear seat cushion to be a bit low. The electric A/C on both cars needs to be set about 5 degrees cooler to achieve the same level of comfort as in a global-warmer mobile, but skipping the $2500 panoramic sunroof will help, as it offers no sunshade of any sort. We also wonder why, with all those electrons onboard, the Tesla offers no 115-volt outlet and no 12-volt or USB ports in the back seat. There is, of course, no contest between these cars on the utility front. While the Model S could do with some door cubbies or console bins (there are none), it boasts almost 33 cubic-feet of combined front and rear luggage capacity, whereas the i8 struggles to accommodate a single roll-aboard suitcase in its piping hot 4.7-cubic-foot trunk. Then again, filling the 26.2-cubic-foot rear seat with duffel bags might even the score if you only ever transport one co-pilot. While we were topping off the Tesla at the Supercharger in Gilroy, California, the gathered Teslaphiles laughed at the i8's minuscule trunk. Tesla takes this category running away. Green Cred Style and dynamics will undoubtedly sell some of these cars, but their greenness will be a prime motivator for many buyers. There can be no argument that the Tesla, rated at 88/90/89 mpg-equivalent by the EPA, with a 265-mile electric range, still trumps all comers -- especially for the majority of owners who can use the growing Supercharger network to assuage their range anxiety. By comparison, the i8 looks to be about half as efficient. Yes, the estimated European combined mpg-e rating is 94 mpg, but the far more realistic EPA ratings are still pending, and our preliminary Real MPG results point to a 41.9/49.6/45.0 for city/highway/combined. Also note that the claimed 23-mile plug-in range only holds up for very gentle driving, as the engine fires if you probe the bottom half of the accelerator's travel. Hoon it around in Sport mode and the computer's average mpg readout will be in the teens, and you'll probably be stopping to fill the 11.1-gallon tank before the Tesla needs to plug in. Then again, using Europe's NEDC fuel economy test regimen as a basis, Britain's Next Green Car ranks the Tesla ahead of the i8 on its overall Green Car Rating, at 36 to 40 (0 is perfect). Tesla decisively wins this category. Bottom Line Forward thinkers living near a Tesla retailer and near the existing or proposed Supercharger network should buy the Tesla first. Pass on the sport seats and pano-roof, banking the savings as seed money for your delayed i8 purchase. The BMW is more fun to drive; it'll turn more heads, and you can drive it from Prudhoe Bay to Tierra del Fuego. But Lieberman summarized our findings this way: "Do I like the i8 better than the Model S? Yes. Am I as blown away by it as I was by the Model S? No. As nifty as the i8 is, the real revolution is the Tesla Model S." 1st Place: Tesla Model S P85+ Still an outta-the-park, green-car home-run capable of wowing 4-6 passengers at a time. 2nd Place: BMW I8 The Earth-firster's guilty electric pleasure -- a ball to drive, if you can ignore the trip computer's low mpg rating. Cadillac ELR: The Cheaper (Kinda) Electric Option There's another option in the electrified luxury coupe segment, and it's half the price of the Bimmer. Yes, yes, Cadillac's ELR is at heart a luxurious, two-door version of the Chevrolet Volt. I ask you, so what? Obviously, the market agrees with you, as the fine-driving ELR is simply not selling. As of mid-June, Cadillac had moved 578 units. To which I say, pity. The svelte Caddy is a very nice alternative to the BMW i8 and a loaded Tesla Model S, at just over half the price. Price. Right. Cadillac is asking $75,995 for the ELR. For that not insignificant amount of scratch you get 37 miles of electric range, and a gasoline-powered range extender good for another 300 miles, give or take. (Though of course above 70 mph with an empty battery the ELR -- like the Volt -- becomes a hybrid, as does the i8.) The i8 gives you less than half that range -- BMW claims 23 miles of no-gas driving, but lead-foot the accelerator and the engine lights, unlike with the ELR). The ELR is high on design. Good, solid, luxurious design. From the outside, the electrified Cadillac offers a handsome take on the third go-'round of the brand's Art & Science styling. Like the also handsome and also FWD-based XTS, the ELR is severely cab-forward, though much more like the glory days of Tom Gale's stewardship of Chrysler design than, say, the current Toyota Corolla. It's a striking coupe. It's also quite lavish on the inside, with a nice mix of leather, wood, and hi-tech. If you haven't been paying attention, Cadillac's interiors have made leaps and bounds lately. Too bad about CUE… What you certainly do not get is performance. Though of course that's the reason it's so "cheap." (At least compared to the Model S and the i8.) Zero to 60 mph happens in a leisurely (and Volt-like) 7.8 seconds and the quarter mile takes (yawn) 16.2 seconds at a ho-hum 87.0 mph. The ELR's big battery (16.5 kW-hr, more than twice the size of the i8's) weighs it down to the tune of 4036 pounds. Sixty-one percent of that weight is over the front wheels, so it doesn't handle all that well (especially comparatively), either. Still, thrilling back-road performance was nowhere in the engineers' thoughts when they laid down the ELR. Efficiency, style, and luxury were, however. On the strength of those three attributes, the Cadillac ELR scores. -- Jonny Lieberman 2014 Cadillac ELR Base Price $75,995 Price as Tested $80,680 Vehicle Layout Front-engine, FWD, 4-pass, 2-door coupe Engine 1.4L/84-hp /92-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4 , plus 217-hp/295-lb-ft front electric motors Transmission Cont. variable auto Curb Weight (f/r dist) 4036 lb (61/39%) Wheelbase 106.1 in Length xWidth x Height 186.0 x 72.7 x 55.9 in 0-60 MPH 7.8 sec Quarter Mile 16.2 sec @ 87.0 mph Braking, 60-0 mph 111 ft Lateral Acceleration 0.85 g (avg) MT Figure Eight 27.1 sec @ 0.66 g (avg) EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 31/35/33 mpg, 82 mpg-e Energy Cons., City/Hwy 109/96 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 Emissions 0.59 lb/mile Tesla Model S P85+ BMW i8 DRIVETRAIN LAYOUT Rear-motor, RWD Mid-engine, AWD ENGINE TYPE - Turbocharged I-3, alum block/head plus AC electric motors VALVETRAIN - DOHC, 4 valves/cyl DISPLACEMENT - 91.4 cu in/1497cc COMPRESSION RATIO - 9.5:1 MOTOR TYPE AC induction AC induction BATTERY TYPE 85 kW-hr Lithium-ion 7.1 kW-hr Lithium-ion POWER (SAE NET) 416 hp @ 5000 rpm 228 (gas)/129 (elec)/362 (comb) hp TORQUE (SAE NET) 443 lb-ft @ 0 rpm 236 (gas)/184 (elec) lb-ft REDLINE 16,000 rpm 6500 rpm WEIGHT TO POWER 11.1 lb/hp 9.3 lb/hp TRANSMISSION 1-speed automatic 6-sp auto (gas, rr wheels), 2-sp auto (elec, fr wheels) AXLE/FINAL-DRIVE RATIO 9.73:1/9.73:1 3.68:1/2.47:1 SUSPENSION, FRONT; REAR Control arms, air springs, anti-roll bar; multi-link, air springs, anti-roll bar Multi-link, coil springs, adj shocks, anti-roll bar; multi-link, coil springs, adj shocks, anti-roll bar STEERING RATIO 13.0:1 16.0:1 TURNS LOCK-TO-LOCK 2.3 2.6 BRAKES, F;R 14.0-in vented disc; 14.4-in vented disc, ABS 13.4-in vented, drilled disc; 13.0-in vented, drilled disc, ABS WHEELS, F;R 8.5 x 21-in, cast aluminum 7.0 x 20-in; 7.5 x 20, cast aluminum TIRES, F;R 245/35R21 96Y; 265/35R21 101Y Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 215/45R20 95W; 245/45R20 99W Bridgestone Potenza S001 DIMENSIONS WHEELBASE 116.5 in 110.2 in TRACK, F/R 65.4/66.9 in 64.7/67.8 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 196.0 x 77.3 x 56.5 in 184.9 x 76.5 x 50.8 in TURNING CIRCLE 37.0 ft 40.4 ft CURB WEIGHT 4633 lb 3378 lb WEIGHT DIST., F/R 47/53% 49/51% SEATING CAPACITY 5 4 HEADROOM, F/R 38.8/35.3 in 38.7/32.4 in LEGROOM, F/R 42.7/35.4 in 43.1/28.2 in SHOULDER ROOM, F/R 57.7/55.0 in 56.7/49.6 in CARGO VOLUME, F/R 5.3/26.3 cu ft -/4.7 cu ft TEST DATA ACCELERATION TO MPH 0-30 1.6 sec 1.5 sec 0-40 2.3 2.1 0-50 3.0 2.9 0-60 3.9 3.8 0-70 5.0 5.0 0-80 6.4 6.3 0-90 8.0 7.8 0-100 10.2 9.7 PASSING, 45-65 MPH 1.8 1.8 QUARTER MILE 12.5 sec @ 108.4 mph 12.4 sec @ 112.1 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 102 ft 103 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.91 g (avg) 0.94 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 24.8 sec @ 0.80 g (avg) 24.6 sec @ 0.80 g (avg) TOP-GEAR REVS @ 60 MPH 8400 rpm 1900 rpm CONSUMER INFO BASE PRICE $94,570 $136,650 PRICE AS TESTED $126,520 $138,650 STABILITY/TRACTION CONTROL Yes/Yes Yes/Yes AIRBAGS Dual front, front side, f/r curtain, front knee Dual front, front side, f/r curtain BASIC WARRANTY 4 yrs/50,000 miles 4 yrs/50,000 miles POWERTRAIN WARRANTY 4 yrs/50,000 miles 4 yrs/50,000 miles ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 4 yrs/50,000 miles 4 yrs/unlimited miles FUEL CAPACITY - 11.1 gal EPA CITY/HWY/COMB ECON 88/90/89 mpg-e Not yet rated ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 38/37 kW-hrs/100 miles - CO2 EMISSIONS, COMB 0.00 lb/mile (at vehicle) - REAL MPG CITY/HWY/COMB - 41.9/49.6/45.0 mpg (preliminary) CHARGE TIME, 240 V/80 AMPS 4 hrs (std range)/ 6 hrs (extended) Less than 1 hour (est) RANGE, EV/COMBINED 265/- mi (extended charge) -/500 mi (est) RECOMMENDED POWER SOURCE 240-volt electricity Unleaded premium, 240-volt electricity | 9 | 1,067 | autos |
Truck Trend executive editor Allyson Harwood talks about the all-new Ford F-150. | 9 | 1,068 | autos |
Road Raves debunks some of the more common myths surrounding cars. | 9 | 1,069 | autos |
See this fast exotic at the Geneva Motor Show. | 9 | 1,070 | autos |
Road Raves highlights three vehicles that are ideal for the next family road trip. | 9 | 1,071 | autos |
See the newest Lamborghini on the track at Ascari Race Resort in Spain. | 9 | 1,072 | autos |
This sexy one-off Lambo makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. | 9 | 1,073 | autos |
The complete 2009 Detroit Auto Show, briefly. | 9 | 1,074 | autos |
Race cars, road cars, GTs, supercars - Maserati has made them all, but below we list the 15 most beautiful vehicles to ever bear the Trident logo. Maserati Alfieri Concept Old school meets new school with this beautiful piece of machinery, which pays homage to Maserati's history while also looking forward to the future. When the Alfieri was unveiled as a concept in Geneva, it blew everyone away with its strikingly good looks and a curvaceous rear that draws inspiration from the legendary 1954 Maserati A6 GCS. It's not all beauty, though. It boasts some serious brawn thanks a Ferrari-sourced 4.7-liter V-8 making 454 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, matched to a six-speed single-clutch automated-manual transmission. Maserati A6GCS/53 Berlinetta Blame this beauty on the rain. The first Maserati to boast Pininfarina lines, the A6GCS/53 Berlinetta was all race car underneath the elegantly styled sheetmetal. Maserati sent Pininfarina the A6GCS chassis complete with all mechanical parts, ready for the addition of the coachwork, but weather during the 1953 Mile Miglia made the coachbuilder think twice about building yet another open-top racing car, so it designed it as a hard top. Only four were built, making this Maserati ever so drool-worthy. Maserati Merak The Merak was essentially the Bora but with a V-6 engine and two extra (cramped) seats. Although the Bora was the first product to come from a new alliance between Maserati and Citroen, the Bora showed more of its Italian roots, but the Merak, however, looked a bit more French with off-the-wall elements such as bolt-on flying buttresses and an oval one-spoke steering wheel. Read more about the one-of-a-kind Merak pictured above here . Maserati 3500 GT The beautifully proportioned and nicely detailed 3500 GT was the Trident's first attempt at a large-scale vehicle and GT car. Its lowered roofline made it attractive to many, however, only 2210 were produced. The coupe was later offered as a convertible later on, but it didn't quite have the same effect as the as its closed-top counterpart. Tipo 61 Birdcage This two-seater open-top car was built specifically for endurance races, and although its styling was designed with aerodynamics in mind, certain elements like the exaggeratedly large wheel arches and svelte windscreen made it uniquely beautiful. As for its name, Birdcage was a special type of chassis consisting of more than 200 pieces, and although it was used to underpin several other Maseratis, the Italian automaker claims the Tipo 61 was the finest expression of it, both visually and performance-wise; the Tipo 61 Birdcage won the Nurburgring 1000-kilometer endurance. Twice. Maserati Ghibli Conceived by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who was then chief designer at Ghia, the Ghibli commanded a presence with its shapely rear end and shark-like nose. It was long, low, and wide, making it look like it was crouched down on the road, and that's because it was: It was only 46 inches tall. Although its low profile certainly attributed to its good looks, it limited headroom for passengers. We can't help but think, though, that the sacrifice was worth it. The Ghibli nameplate has been reimagined as a new sedan, which is shown below. MC12 Why does the MC12 belong on this list of most beautiful Maseratis? Just look at it! Originally developed to compete in the FIA GT Championships, the sports car was so sought after that a precious few were produced for on-road use. Even though it was based heavily on the Enzo Ferrari, it had certain characteristics that help set it apart. It was longer, wider, and had a sharper nose. Quattroporte The 1963 Quattroporte was the Italian automaker's first foray into the luxury sedan market, and although it was unlike any other Maserati at the time, it still had the elegant style and sporty characteristics the automaker was associated with. Although it was penned by Pietro Frua, the bodywork was constructed by Vignale, with the end result being a gorgeous mix of curves and angles. The Quattroporte was defined by its tall greenhouse, big glass windows, and protruding front grille or Maserati mouth with the Trident logo displayed right in the middle. The first-generation Quattroporte is shown above while the latest Quattroporte is pictured below. GranTurismo Those Pininfarina lines once again lend the GranTurismo an appearance that's easy on the eyes, thanks to a perfectly sculpted body that emphasis all the right curves. A sportier and two-door interpretation of the Quattroporte, the GranTurismo sports the familiar jutting front grille while the overall shape skillfully blends a soft, flowing sculpture with sharp, angular details. The reason it looks this way is because its bodywork was designed to look like it was pulled tightly on the mechanicals. Birdcage 75 Concept The Birdcage 75 concept was Pininfarina's way of celebrating its own 75th birthday as one of Italy's premier design houses and coachbuilders. Although this concept could've has easily been branded as a Ferrari, Pininfarina was already working with Maserati on a new model range, so they just decided to keep it in the Trident family. The concept car was based on the carbon-fiber monocoque of the MC12, though its instrument panel was held in place by the "birdcage"-style structure. Looking straight from the future, the concept featured a gigantic glass canopy. Bora The Bora coupe was Maserati's first foray into the 70s supercar craze, and although it sported a wedge shaped design and futuristic styling cues like several other supercars during the time, the Bora not only stood apart with its stainless steel roof and A-pillars, but also because the engine cover was mostly glass and rear-hinged for a backwards clamshell effect. Named after a brisk breeze off the Eastern Adriatic coast, the Bora was fitted with either a high-revving 4.7-liter V-8 or a torquier 4.9-liter V-8. Mistral The successor to the 3500 GT was also designed by Frua and was offered as both a coupe and spyder. Boasting an ultra-sleek bodyline, the Mistral had long, sloping hood that featured beautifully sculpted air intakes and a fat full-width chrome bumper in the front and in the back. The full-width front grille was positioned below the bumper and, of course, was adorned with a large Trident badge right in the center. Around back, the Mistral was all glass with a windowed fastback that gave way to generous cargo space. Khamsin While the Bora and Merak were incredibly sexy supercars during their time, they still may have been a bit too underwhelming for traditional Maserati customers in terms of luxury. Enter the Khamsin, which was designed to keep its supercar looks on the outside, but offer a more sumptuous interior than the Trident-stamped supercars. The Khamsin, designed by coachbuilder Bertone, had never-before-seen design elements such as a glass rear panel in between the taillights and below the rear window, but had to be scrapped in the U.S. over NHTSA regulations. Levante A Maserati SUV may sound like heresy, but the Levante is anything but. Set for a debut sometime in 2015, the Levante was first shown at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show as the Kubang concept. Typical design elements found on other Maseratis translated nicely onto the midsize SUV, including the prominent front grille and curvaceous rear end. Making this SUV even more handsome is its coupe-like profile, which again, hints at the automaker's sporty characteristics. 250F Is it a missile or a car? The 250F is one of the automaker's most iconic cars, not only because of its successful performance in two 1955 World Championship races: the Grand Prix of both Italy and Monaco. Defined by its low snout, long and narrow hood, shapely rear, and bright red paint, it was hard to ignore the 250F, which quickly became recognized by enthusiasts as one of the most beautiful grand prix racing machines of all time. | 9 | 1,075 | autos |
Kia's lineup has seen drastic improvements in quality and style in recent years, and next to jump on that bandwagon is the 2016 Kia Sorento. The next-gen Sorento looks to increase its premium character with sharper styling, more premium equipment, and greater interior space to more closely align with other three-row crossovers. As expected based on earlier teaser images , the 2016 Kia Sorento is longer and wider than before, with a longer wheelbase. Kia increased the Sorento's wheelbase by 3.1 inches, now totaling 109.4 inches. The 2016 Kia Sorento also grew 3.7 inches in length. The Sorento's softer and more swept-back styling is in part a result of the higher beltine and 0.6-inch reduced height. While we don't know exactly how much additional space there will be for passengers and cargo in the 2016 Kia Sorento, it should compete more reasonably with other three-row crossovers than it did before, when it was really a midsize crossover with an available third row. Earlier teaser images of the Sorento's interior show a much cleaner and more attractive interior than we saw in the outgoing model. Kia claims that the 2016 Sorento will use soft-touch materials to a much greater extent, while also implementing the Korean automaker's latest infotainment system. Although still recognizably a Kia Sorento, the updated crossover now looks decidedly more premium and suited to Kia's modernized lineup. Up front we see a totally overhauled front fascia including chrome and gloss black trim on the lower bumper, angular foglight housings, and Kia's trademark "Tiger" grille opening. Around the rear, prominent changes include restyled taillights and a new bumper. The overall styling scheme draws from the Kia Cross GT concept from the 2013 Chicago auto show, but the concept's leaner, more elongated proportions were apparently left on the cutting room floor during the Sorento's development. The 2016 Kia Sorento will most likely use the familiar 3.3-liter direct-injection V-6 making about 290 hp, with a turbo-four another potential engine option. Front-wheel drive will come standard, with all-wheel drive available. Debuting later this month in Korea and then at the Paris auto show on October 2, the new Sorento will make its U.K. debut in the spring of 2015. It will likely go on sale here in the U.S. at around the same time. Source: Kia | 9 | 1,076 | autos |
Volkswagen is recalling a number of model-year 2009-2014 Tiguan crossovers for a possible issue within the fuel system that could cause the engine to stall. The Problem: According to Volkswagen, the engine could stall due to a number of factors within the fuel system. The issue stems from gas bubbles forming in the fuel system caused when winterized fuel (with high vapor pressures) is used in warm weather or during an engine's heat soak period. The bubbles usually form when the engine is restarted before it has had a chance to cool down. Volkswagen says that operating the vehicle under low load will cause deposits to collect in the fuel pump, reducing its performance and pressure. A combination of these issues could prevent the fuel pump from overcoming the vapor pressure, which may lead to the vehicle stalling shortly after the engine has started. The issue could lead to a crash, though Volkswagen says no accidents or injuries have been reported. The Fix: Installing revised Electronic Control Module (ECM) software will solve the issue. Volkswagen dealers will perform the fix free of charge. Number of Vehicles Potentially Affected: Volkswagen says the recall includes 151,389 Tiguan crossovers from model year 2009-2014. Source: Volkswagen | 9 | 1,077 | autos |
The standout cars of the subcompact segment are those that offer the least amount of compromise for an affordable price. The 2014 Hyundai Accent strikes a good balance, separating itself from others with its handsome styling and strong performance. Sharing the same platform, engine, and transmission with the Kia Rio, the Accent is powered by a 1.6-liter I-4 producing 138 hp, providing more-than-adequate power to motivate its relatively featherweight 2579 pounds. The Accent achieves 0-60 mph in 9.0 seconds, onto a quarter-mile time of 16.8 seconds at 82.8 mph, putting it at the middle of the pack, behind the Chevrolet Sonic and the last-generation Honda Fit, but ahead of the Toyota Yaris and the Nissan Versa Note. Normal stoplight-to-stoplight acceleration under 40 mph is more-than adequate, as the 1.6-liter punches above its power rating. Highway entrance ramps and freeway passing are not things to fear, but the necessary burying-of-the-throttle results in a rather uneconomical outcome. The six-speed automatic transmission is the best part of the drivetrain. Shifts are smooth, unnoticeable, and when you need them to be, quick. After initial acceleration onto the highway, the sixth gear does its job to settle the car down, transitioning the car to a low-rpm cruise ( the 2012-2014 Hyundai Elantra is shown in this First Test ). Steering is light and a bit muted, not transmitting much from the road in favor of ease and comfort. Handling is neutral, the Accent favors good road manners and refinement over sporting pretensions. The Accent is no canyon carver, but it's not supposed to be. The Accent took a respectable 28.0 seconds to lap our figure-eight course, at an average of 0.60 g, placing the Accent above the last-gen Fit, Yaris, and Versa Note in the average g category, but below the Chevrolet Sonic, and Kia Rio in the overall figure-eight time. The Accent is capable of an EPA-rated 27/37 mpg city/highway, for a combined 31 mpg. It rates in the middle of the subcompact group, coming in behind the CVT-equipped 2014 Nissan Versa Note with a combined 35 mpg, the 2015 Honda Fit at 35-36 mpg, and the 2014 Toyota Yaris at 32 mpg, but comes in ahead of the 2014 Chevrolet Sonic with a 1.8-liter I-4 at 28 mpg, though with a 1.4-liter turbo I-4 the rating matches that of the Accent. Inside, our Accent SE test car had a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel, while the bezel surrounding the control stack is finished in glossy black. The gauges are particularly attractive, and deceptively premium in appearance, backlit with Hyundai's signature blue lighting. Seats are a little on the flat and unsupportive side, but can be forgiven for the impressive amount of rear-seat legroom and space available in the cargo area. Capacity with the rear seats in place is 21.2 cubic feet, but lay the rear seats flat, and usable space expands to 47.5 cubic feet. The Accent is not a cargo wizard like the Honda Fit, but the hatchback provides plenty of space for luggage-hauling and grocery runs. An exceptionally intuitive optional Bluetooth hands-free system mated to a six-speaker audio system provides quality sound, and connecting a phone or iPod is as simple as plugging into the easily accessible USB port or connecting via Bluetooth. For 2014, Hyundai upgraded the Accent with new standard and optional equipment. The Accent receives a one-touch triple turn signal, sliding sun visors, and a driver's blind spot-mirror. The standard audio system is updated for improved voice recognition and sound quality. Hyundai incorporated new projector headlights with LED accents, welcome lamps, driver's side auto-up window and tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel added to SE hatchback and Premium Package sedan models. The Accent is Hyundai's attempt to create a refined subcompact that provides the same sense of solidity as the rest of the automaker's contemporary lineup. With a blend of high-quality interior components for its class, a solid drivetrain, strong performance, and sharp styling, the Accent is a decent choice for the average subcompact consumer. 2014 Hyundai Accent SE Four-Door Hatch BASE PRICE $18,205 PRICE AS TESTED $18,315 VEHICLE LAYOUT Front-engine, FWD, 5-pass, 4-door hatchback ENGINE 1.6L/138-hp/123-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4 TRANSMISSION 6-speed automatic CURB WEIGHT (F/R DIST) 2579 lb (62/38%) WHEELBASE 101.2 in LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT 162.0 x 66.9 x 57.1 in 0-60 MPH 9.0 sec QUARTER MILE 16.8 sec @ 82.8 mph BRAKING, 60-0 MPH 116 ft LATERAL ACCELERATION 0.80 g (avg) MT FIGURE EIGHT 28.0 sec @ 0.60 g (avg) EPA CITY/HWY/COMB FUEL ECON 27/37/31 mpg ENERGY CONS., CITY/HWY 125/91 kW-hrs/100 miles CO2 EMISSIONS 0.63 lb/mile | 9 | 1,078 | autos |
Almost every action we take in life is aimed at achieving or maintaining happiness that elusive state where we feel contentment, satisfaction, and even bliss. TalentSmart has by now tested more than a million people and trained tens of thousands more, and we are often struck by the commonalities we see between people, particularly when they fall victim to the same traps that limit their ability to reach their full potential. To that end, here are three prominent traps which people fall into. They are easily fixed, but until then they severely limit our potential for happiness. 1. We Hold Our Feelings In One of the great misconceptions concerning emotional intelligence is that it is about repressing our feelings and holding them in. While it is true there are feelings that high EQ individuals do not allow to erupt on impulse, that does not mean those feelings are not expressed. Emotional intelligence means honoring our feelings and allowing ourselves to experience the catharsis that comes from embracing them for what they are. Then we express them in a manner that helps rather than hinders our ability to reach our goals. 2. We Fight Change Change is an inevitable part of life, and those who fight it do so because they are struggling to remain in control. The problem with this approach is that fighting change actually limits our control over the situation by putting up a barrier between ourselves and the actions we need to take to improve our situation. The idea here is to prepare for change. This is not a guessing game where we test our accuracy in anticipating what comes next, but rather it means thinking through the consequences of potential changes so that we are not caught off guard if they surface. The first step is to admit to ourselves that even the most stable and trusted facets of our life are not completely under our control. People change, businesses go through ebbs and flows, and things simply do not stay the same for long. When we allow ourselves to anticipate change and understand our options if changes occur we prevent ourselves from getting bogged down by strong emotions like shock, surprise, fear, and disappointment when changes actually happen. While we are still likely to experience these negative emotions, our acceptance that change is an inevitable part of life enables us to focus and think rationally, which is critical to making the most out of an unlikely, unwanted, or otherwise unforeseen situation. 3. We Numb Ourselves With Technology Everyone deserves the opportunity to binge-watch a TV show now and then or to switch on our Kindle and get lost in a book. The real question is how much time we spend plugged in (to video games, the TV, the tablet, the computer, the phone, etc.) and whether it makes us feel good or simply makes us numb. When our escape becomes a constant source of distraction, it is a sure sign we have fallen into the trap of too much of a good thing. If we want to cut back on the amount of time we are plugged in, we have to choose blocks of time where we can cut the cord and go offline. It is amazing how refreshing these breaks are when we choose an alternative activity that is equally stimulating. As we grow more comfortable without the pacifier of technology, we can gradually increase the amount of time we spend away from it. More by me: What my company does: Emotional Intelligence Training Emotional Intelligence Certification | 7 | 1,079 | health |
The people who can raise a perfectly well behaved child are those people who don't have any children. You know who these people are because they don't have dried pudding on their jeans. There wasn't a toddler close enough to quietly put a booger in their hair while they struggled to adjust the cart seat strap. Before I had kids, I was also an expert on raising children. Here are some of my "expert declarations" and a brief rundown of my "actual" findings… 1. My kids will never behave that way in public. By "behave," I meant they'd never throw tantrums in the store. Those hysterical fits that sound like they're being chased down the cereal aisle by an actual shark. When tantrums actually happen in public, I react the way anyone in my situation would. I ask random people if these are their kids. Or, I'll whisper to the people next to me: "I'm the nanny." Occasionally I compliment my children on their form as they thrash and contort their body in ways that defy both human biology and physics. 2. My kids will not eat crappy food. My toddlers are picky. So, getting them to eat anything that isn't a sticker or a crayon is a small victory. If they pass on green beans and carrots and choose to inhale chicken nuggets or pepperoni, it's an amen-arm raising-hallelujah-kind of moment. I always toss in a gummy vitamin twice a day, this is how I live without guilt. 3. I will never leave the house looking like that. Oh, but I do. It's not that I don't care about how I look. I mean, mostly I don't really care how I look, but a lot of times I actually forget to do things like brush my hair or put on makeup or brush my teeth. I have, however, never forgotten pants. You're welcome. 4. My house will never look like that. My house looks like a Build-A-Bear Workshop exploded in it. There are stuffed animals, clothes and toy parts scattered everywhere. I've learned that cleaning up after kids while they're awake is like trying to clean up splattered food from an open blender, that's still running. It's exhausting. The only way my house will ever be clean is if it spontaneously combusts. More from Scary Mommy: This mom's choices will give you (good) goosebumps 5. I will never be late anywhere. The slowest my children ever move is when we have to go anywhere that has a start time. On any given day, my kids burn around the house like their pants are on fire. They move with the energy of 80 toddlers, breaking the sound barrier as they circle the dining room table for the billionth time. The second I have to be anywhere, time goes backwards. It turns into negative time. That's how long it takes them to get to me. -15 minutes. Don't get me started on putting coats and shoes on. Let's just say that no one can put their arm through the coat holes when they're too busy trying to put their shoes on their ears. 6. I will never negotiate with my children. Negotiation is a powerful tool. It gives my children the chance to exercise decision making. Thus pushing them towards successful independence. Just kidding. It gives me my way. For example, if little Susie wants ice cream, she has to eat three more chicken nuggets. If she doesn't eat them, everyone else at the table gets ice cream. Raising a child is like a business. It's all about incentives. Okay, maybe it sounds more like bribing. To-may-toe. To-mah-toe. More from Scary Mommy: 10 reasons all kids need good manners 7. I will not allow my children to watch TV. During winters such as these, when your family is one snowflake away from mumbling themselves into full-fledged cabin fever, TV is a sanctuary. A magical box that emits irresistible sounds and colors that buy me at least 15 minutes of motionless activity. Where I can resume banging my head against the wall without interruption. 8. I will never get annoyed by my children. Sometimes I initiate a game of hide and seek that I don't tell anyone else about. Then, I'll hide in places where a 3-year old would never think to look, like inside the dryer. And I eat candy. 9. I won't let my kids stop me from traveling. Taking a trip to Target requires more items than settlers needed for the westward expansion. If our forefathers had mostly toddlers in tow, they'd have made it as far as Ohio before one of them realized they left a toy behind. After the meltdown was over, everyone would mutually agree that Ohio was "west" enough. We do travel now that we have kids, but I'm not up for discussing our experiences. I'm still trying to sort it all out in therapy. More from Scary Mommy: What experienced moms want to say to new moms 10. My kids will listen to me. I honestly believe that early childhood development doesn't include the ability to listen. Hear, yes. Listen, no. For whatever reason no one hears me until I'm in full blown auctioneer mode, rattling words off at 115 decibels. By the time anyone in my house responds, I've sold a sheep and four tractors at a farm auction six counties away. There's nothing more humbling than becoming a parent. There's no experience in life that challenges your character, patience and endurance like raising children. Well, maybe surviving the Alaskan wilderness in the winter after being chased by a pack of ravenous wolves is more challenging. Hopefully those wolves were chasing you at -40 miles per hour and mostly kept their boogers to themselves. Christina has two toddlers and a fat cat. When she's not writing, she's neglecting laundry, making mediocre meals for her family and answering the same question 147 times in a single minute. You can find her hiding in the closet and eating candy at Raisins and Goldfish. Find more great mom blogs at scarymommy.com | 4 | 1,080 | lifestyle |
Dr. Gregory Lowe , a urologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center , contributed this article to Live Science's Expert Voices: Op Eds and Insights. Advertisements warning men that they may be suffering from "low T" seem to be everywhere. Low T is commercial code for reduced levels of the male hormone testosterone. A decrease in testosterone levels is normal for men, a natural part of aging. In fact, you might be surprised to know that upward of 30 percent of men in the United States over 60 years old have low testosterone that's nearly 6 million men. Perhaps the issue most commonly associated with low testosterone levels is a marked decrease in sexual desire. However, the condition has been linked to a number of overall health problems, including: Chronic fatigue or lack of energy Insomnia Weight gain Reduced muscle mass and strength Trouble recovering from exercise Heart problems Osteoporosis Trouble with spatial reasoning Difficulty concentrating Erectile dysfunction The tricky part about low testosterone is that many of these symptoms can also be signs of other health issues. For example, while you may suspect that your chronic fatigue and lack of energy are a result of low testosterone, they may actually be symptoms of depression. That's why it's so important for men to undergo a physical exam and testosterone supplement trial first, before diving in too deep with testosterone treatments. If the supplement trial doesn't seem to be helping, your doctor may then begin to evaluate if low T is the source of your health issues. It's also important to note that age is not always a determining factor in low-T patients. In fact, at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center , I see low T in patients as young as 20 years old. The good news, though, is that medications aren't always necessary. We can look at lifestyle factors, especially for younger individuals including stress and dietary habits to help prevent low T early on. Most low-T gels or patches are bioidentical, meaning these treatments resemble the exact testosterone that is made in the male body. About 70 percent of low-T patients use this kind of gel for treatment. These gels are usually applied to the chest, upper arms, back, underarms or even the inner thighs once a day. However, only 5 to 10 percent of patients use a patch because it can sometimes lead to skin irritation, and 17 percent will ultimately use injectable therapy, which generally lasts for up to two weeks at a time. The vast majority of my patients have reasonable expectations when it comes to hormone therapy . Most men don't seek my help because they want to feel like they're 20 years old again they just don't want to need a nap at 3 p.m. every day. I would encourage you to see a doctor immediately if you think you might be experiencing the symptoms of low T. This is a pressing issue that can't be self-diagnosed. Trust a urologist to give you the help you need in the safest way possible. Take advantage of the many therapies available for younger patients and developing treatments for older ones in today's day and age, low-T management is much easier and more effective than ever before. Follow all of the Expert Voices issues and debates and become part of the discussion on Facebook , Twitter and Google + . The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. This version of the article was originally published on LiveScience.com. What is Testosterone? Testosterone Prescriptions Nearly Triple in Last Decade BPA Linked with Lower Testosterone | 7 | 1,081 | health |
Here are six camps where that authentic kind of connectedness with new people and new skills will leave you feeling like a kid again. Go back in time Remember summer camp? Long afternoons of nature walks or horseback riding, launching from a rope swing into a lake, singing goofy songs around a fire at night. Those days may seem like a distant memory, but it's not too late to relive them. Adult summer camps are becoming a ritual for more and more under-rested, overconnectedgrown-ups places where you can play capture the flag or learn to carve a kayak instead of checking your email by the pool.According to the American Camp Association, 1 million people over the age of 18 went to summer camp last year. And adult camps in the U.S. have grown some 10 percent over the past decade. "Put eight people in a bunkhouse with no phones and they become a mini tribe," says Levi Felix, 29, who co-founded a tech-free retreat outside San Francisco two years ago. "You become mindful about yourself and the people around you." Here are six camps where that authentic kind of connectedness with new people and new skills will leave you feeling like a kid again. Glamping in the Park Camping doesn't have to mean waking with a stiff neck in a damp sleeping bag. Yellowstone Under Canvas is a safari-like experience at a fraction of the price. Luxury tents have beds covered in high-thread-count sheets, a leather sofa, a wood-burning stove, and indoor plumbing. "Our family does a lot of camping, but I had never heard of glamping," says David DuPree, 41, a defense subcontractor who visited last June with his wife and two sons, ages 8 and 10. While the boys earned Junior Ranger badges in a two-day course identifying trees and animals, DuPree and his wife hiked. "When you get back, the staff has a bonfire going, someone is playing guitar, and everyone is hanging out. It's really special."Go: 90 minutes south of Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.Cost: From $89/night for a two-person tent; up to $425/night for a suite with a tub. Unplugging in the redwoods Set in a 1950s Boy Scout camp amid 80 acres of Bay Area redwoods, Camp Grounded in Navarro is a device-free return to adolescence for techies, cubicle grunts, and anyone who's overdosed on email and texting. The rules: no cell phones, laptops, tablets, even watches; and no talk of work, your age, or your real name (nicknames only). "You literally don't know anything about anybody at first," says Robert Macauley, an L.A.-based tech entrepreneur who went by Megaman last year. "You get to find out about people in a really personal way." Campers stay in bunkhouses that sleep eight, and spend afternoons having fun the way we did before cable: color wars, capture the flag, talent shows. In the mess hall, they pick conversation starters from a jar (funniest movie you've seen, first kiss). "We're always being defined by 140 characters or Facebook avatars," says camp co-founder Levi Felix. "This is a chance to redefine who you are."Cost: From $485 for four days.Bring: Just like summer camp when you were a kid, you'll need your own sleeping bag and pillow, and good shoes for hiking. Distilling down South If you've ever thought of hopping into the small-batch-spirits game or just want to know how to make vodka from your potatoes head to Moonshine University in Louisville for a one-day bourbon-making workshop ($395) or a five-day distiller boot camp ($5,750). Run by the Distilled Spirits Epicenter, an educational facility near Louisville's famed Whiskey Row, these classes get your hands dusty: milling raw corn, cooking it into a porridge, handling yeast for fermentation, and blending botanicals to make a one-off batch of gin. "It's very hands-on," says Joe Semansky, who owns a winery in Ohio and wants to start making brandy. His 17-person class included would-be distillers as well as "guys just checking it out for a day," he says. Classes are seven hours long, but getting to drink the fruits of your labor is a sweet reward.Stay: The Brown Hotel, from $229/night.Do: Tour distilleries Maker's, Beam or bike the countryside. Cooking with pros "At CIA, we are not teaching recipes; we are teaching kitchen skills," says chef Mark Ainsworth, a 20-year veteran professor. "The focus is on cooking methods, like how to julienne or braise." Offered at three locations across the country Hyde Park, San Antonio, St. Helena the Culinary Institute of America's two- and five-day boot camps cover skills such as butchering, knife work, grilling, and baking, and offer lessons on making hors d'oeuvres, comfort foods, and exotic dishes from around the world. You'll sweat through sessions in its state-of-the-art professional kitchens, working in teams to make meals that are judged by teachers just like a reality-TV show, but without the screaming. Ainsworth says he's seen everyone from retired surgeons to former Navy lieutenants come in with a passion for cooking and "leave completely energized." As a bonus, all three schools are situated in areas where there's a ton of fun to be had outside the kitchen: Hyde Park's hiking paths and graded mountain-bike trails overlook the Hudson River; San Antonio's exploding restaurant scene will satisfy your appetite should your own cooking experiments fail; and St. Helena is in the heart of Napa Valley.Cost: Two-day skills development, $895; five-day basic training, $2,195.Bring: Nonslip, rubber-soled shoes (think Mario Batali's Crocs) are required for the kitchen. Boatmaking in New England The most unique woodworking shop in the U.S. lies in the tiny central-coast fishing town (population 840) of Brooklin. Using all hand tools, The WoodenBoat School's instructors many master builders from local shipyards will show you and a friend how to build a kayak in a single week (even if you're a total novice). By the end, you're car-topping her down the road, unvarnished but ready to float. "It's an amazing feeling, especially if you do it with your son or wife or best friend," says Rich Hilsinger, a student in 1983 and now the school's director. Started three decades ago by the founder of WoodenBoat magazine, the school is set on an idyllic 64-acre former saltwater farm built in the 1920s. Some enthusiasts arrive by schooner, which can be secured at the school's private moorings; those on four wheels shack up in the old caretaker's house or a cottage in town.Cost: Fundamentals of Boatbuilding, two weeks, $1,200; Build Your Own Chuckanut Kayak, six days, $600.Do: The school has a fleet of small boats for after-dinner sailing. But most people just sit outside and talk shop. Roping out West At Lori Bridwell's Arizona Cowboy College in Scottsdale, you'll learn not just the fundamentals of riding, roping, and fixing a fence line, but a little horse-whispering, too. ("Approach shoulder-to-shoulder as horses do, so you're respecting their space.") Cowboys-in-training get their bearings at the "in-town ranch" in Scottsdale, with short rides into the nearby desert, then head 15 miles north to a working ranch, where they sleep in bunkhouses or under the stars literally. "Cowboys don't sleep in tents, else how would they escape a stampede?" Bridwell says. After 7 AM, you're in the saddle till late afternoon, when you brush and feed your horse. "It's a super-empowering experience," Bridwell says. "You're in charge of a 1,200-pound animal."Go: Forty minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.Cost: $2,250 for five days.Bring: Knife for cutting hay bales. | 4 | 1,082 | lifestyle |
Do you have a finicky furry friend on your holiday gift list this year? You're in luck! We've rounded up the coolest cat-approved products to bring you purrfect gift ideas for every kind of cat -- from the curious kitten to the most refined feline. Any one of these special gifts could make your resident kitty purr with pleasure and maybe, just maybe, like the present this year even more than the box and wrapping paper it came in! Puddy Tat Collar With Silver Fish Here's a little something that's both fabulous and functional for your feline fashionista! These colorful Italian leather collars, adorned with cute little silver fishies, are sure to make your kitty the envy of the catwalk.Puddy Tat Collar With Silver Fish, $19.99 at WoofWear.us. Cat Corner Desk Lounger The Cat Corner Desk Lounger offers a special place for your cat to do what he does best: supervise your work. This plush bed sits on the corner of your desk, secured by Velcro. Big enough for most cats to stretch out, the lounger is equipped with 3-inch rails to help keep him from taking a tumble off the side. Your kitty will love his new spot, but we suspect you may still find him snoozing on your important papers now and then!Cat Corner Desk Lounger, $55.30 at CatsPlay. M.A.X. Easy Chair With Scratching Ottoman Here's some furniture you won't mind your cat scratching! This two-piece scratcher set is a feline-sized chair and ottoman for your cat to use as his lifestyle dictates. Sprinkle some catnip on it and your cat can scratch, lounge, play and nip to his heart's content, without ruining your furniture (or stealing your seat, for that matter). This sturdy set is made in the United States from 100 percent recycled materials and can even go into the recycling bin after your cat is finished with it.M.A.X. Easy Chair With Scratching Ottoman, $55.95 at CatClaws.com. Kitty Lounger Mini Cat Hammock What cat wouldn't like to lounge in a hammock? The Kitty Lounger Mini offers a comfy place for your cat to laze around. The soft cotton washable cover easily slips over a VOC-free birch plywood frame to cradle your kitty. Slightly higher sides keep him feeling safe and secure while he snoozes the afternoon away. Just a few inches off the ground, the Kitty Lounger Mini is perfect for cats under 15 pounds, particularly for those with mobility issues.Kitty Lounger Mini Cat Hammock, $59.99 at PeachIndustries.com. Kong Kitty Thrasher Catnip Toy Soft and cuddly yet with long, crinkly fins, this cat toy is perfect for playtime and snuggle time. Oh, and did we mention it houses some killer catnip? Available in three colorful characters: Clown Fish, Shark or Angel Fish.Kong Kitty Thrasher Catnip Toy, $4.99 at Amazon.com. Neko Nappers Cat Sleeping Bag For cats who love to burrow, now there's a perfect little sleeping bag for your snuggle bug. The Neko Nappers Cat Sleeping Bag is super plush with just a touch of crinkle inside to make it interesting. Kitties enjoy sleeping both on top and inside this cozy cat haven. And if you think a sleeping bag with cat ears on it is cute, just wait until you see your cat all cuddled up inside.Neko Nappers Cat Sleeping Bag, $35 at Nekochan Enterprises. Twist 'n Treat Cat Toy No holiday wish list is complete without a treat dispenser! The Twist 'n Treat wobbles as your cat plays, dispensing treats sporadically and keeping your kitty interested. This dishwasher-safe toy can be adjusted to your cat's skill level. Simply fill it with your cat's favorite treats or kibble and make him work to get the reward -- appealing to your little tiger's prey drive.Twist 'n Treat Cat Toy, $3.99 at PetSafe.net. The SkratchKabin A cat bed and scratcher in one, the SkratchKabin is like an amusement park for cats, providing your kitty with a comfortable, safe place to sleep and a convenient place to get his scratch on. The SkratchKabin comes in three colors, complete with a machine-washable KatKushion, a toy hanger and sisal mouse.The SkratchKabin, $99 at KatKabin.com. Tower of Tracks Cat Toy Talk about a party! This stacked play station is perfect for one, two or more cats to get in on the fun. Several balls spin and roll through three spiraling levels. The toy's sturdy plastic frame is built for fun, ensuring hours of pleasure for your furry friends.Tower of Tracks Cat Toy, $20.99 at CatToys.com. Bergan Whirly Pop Cat Toy When you purchase the Whirly Pop, prepare for tons of entertainment for your cat -- and for you! Watch your cat jump, pounce and stalk the Whirly Pop, only to see the bright orange toy remain completely still. Then get ready to laugh yourself silly as the Whirly Pop "pops" up and surprises your kitty, starting the crazy game all over. Of course, be sure to supervise your feline friend while playing with any small toy to ensure he doesn't swallow any part of it.Bergan Whirly Pop Cat Toy, $3.49 at Petco.com. | 4 | 1,083 | lifestyle |
To curate the perfect present round-up, we asked ten stylish moms to share their wish lists. Here, we reveal a rock-star roster of mommy-must-haves, selected by Tiffani Thiessen, Miranda Kerr, June Ambrose, and more! Tiffani Thiessen Claim to Fame: Actress; Plays Elizabeth Burke on USA Network's White Collar; former roles include Kelly Kapowski on Saved by The Bell and Valerie Malone on Beverly Hills, 90210Hometown: New York City and Los AngelesParental Stats: Daughter, Harper Renn, 2Video: Pamper Yourself on Mother's Day > Tiffani Thiessen (1) "The at-home Tria Hair Removal Laser is the perfect gift for time-strapped moms--and aren't we all? It eliminates the need for endless shaving and waxing, as well as setting up doctor or spa appointments."Tria Hair Removal Laser, $395; triabeauty.com(2) "This beautiful ring costs less than $50, and the color is perfect for summer!"Stella & Dot Camilla Ring, $49; stelladot.comVideo: Show mom some love with these great finds > Tiffani Thiessen (1) "This seasonal scarf line is great for travel. Plus, the wraps come in so many beautiful colors and patterns."Theodora & Callum Fuchsia Multi Serape Gypsy Allover Fringe Scarf, $165; theodoraandcallum.com(2) "Who wouldn't love this stylish, modern vase? Fill it with a beautiful flower arrangement, and you've got a wonderful Mother's Day gift."Dwell Studio Diamond Cut Egg Vase, $48; dwellstudio.com Rebecca Minkoff Claim to Fame: Creative Director of Rebecca MinkoffHometown: New York CityParental Stats: Son, Luca Bellour, 6 months Rebecca Minkoff (1) "I love a good stripe, and the heart detail on this t-shirt seems perfectly suited for Mother’s Day. Luca also has a similar tee—it would be so cute to wear them together!"Chinti and Parker Heart-Print Striped Cotton Top, $135; net-a-porter.com(2) "I’ve been looking for the perfect piece of personal jewelry that I can stamp with the names of my husband, Gavin, and son. The engraving is small and sweet on this bracelet, and the bangle goes with everything"Jennifer Fisher Jewelry Cuff Bracelets, $1,400 each; jenniferfisherjewelry.com Rebecca Minkoff (1) "We have an area next to my couch that we call 'Luca’s Lounge,' and it’s definitely missing this incredibly cute monogram pillow."Jonathan Adler Letter Pillow, $100; jonathanadler.com(2)"Fresh makes the best scents, and the Brown Sugar line is my favorite. I’ve been looking for a candle that smells this good for a while."Fresh Brown Sugar Candle, $50; fresh.com Miranda Kerr Claim to Fame: Supermodel and Victoria's Secret AngelHometown: Los AngelesParental Stats: Son, Flynn, 16 months Miranda Kerr (1) “A chic, refillable diary is a great gift idea for a mom-on-the-go. I love to jot down notes, and this one fits in my purse."Louis Vuitton Medium Ring Agenda Cover, $570; louisvuitton.com(2) “I love the newest Victoria’s Secret fragrance, Love is Heavenly. The scent is so fresh and floral.”Victoria’s Secret Love is Heavenly Eau de Parfum, $42–$52; victoriassecret.com Miranda Kerr (1) "Show your love through flowers. My favorites are peonies, since they are so lush and smell fantastic."Ava Flowers Peony Party Boutique, $57.99; avasflowers.com(2) "I designed this body oil to hydrate and illuminate skin. It has a wonderful fragrance and is a great gift for a mother who loves body care."Kora Organics by Miranda Kerr Luxurious Rosehip Body Oil; $59.95; koraorganics.com June Ambrose Claim to Fame: Fashion stylist, designer, author of the book Effortless Style, and star of Styled By June on VH1Hometown: New York CityParental Stats: Son, Chance, 10; daughter, Summer, 7 June Ambrose (1) "This gift is perfect for a mom who travels. Each luggage tag has a cute sketch and saying on it."Lanvin Luggage Label, $70; lanvin.com(2) "I adore these flats for the mom who loves fashion, but doesn't want to sacrifice comfort."Charlotte Olympia Kitty Cat Flats, $845; kirnazabete.com(3) "Frames are a great present, because every mom experiences a lack of sleep and tired-looking eyes! My glasses ‘glamouflage’ a makeup-free face at school drop-offs."June Ambrose Eyewear x Selima Optiques Hi-Brow Sunglasses, $275; selimaoptique.com June Ambrose (1) "I know it's a bit expensive, but I love this scent! It's clean and fresh."Hermés Jardin Sur Le Toit Eau de Toilette, $90–$125; hermes.com(2) "I wear this bracelet to cocktail parties and fashion shows. It's perfect for the mom who loves jewelry, but wants something a bit more down-to-earth."Tai Hammered Gold Infinity Bracelet, $90; neimanmarcus.com(3) "I can't get enough of these photo albums! The pretty books are perfect places to store your family memories."Lilly Pulitzer Photo Album, $22; lillypulitzer.com Josie Maran Claim to Fame: Founder of Josie Maran Cosmetics, model, and eco activistHometown: Los AngelesParental Stats: Daughter, Rumi Joon, 5; her second child is due in July Josie Maran (1) "I love giving my argan oil as a gift, because everyone can benefit from it. It's gentle, nourishing, and perfect for all skin types—even if you have acne, eczema, or rosacea. I use it every day all over my body, face, hair, and nails. It simply makes you glow."Josie Maran 100 Percent Pure Argan Oil, $48; josiemarancosmetics.com(2) "This brand was started by my husband's two sisters, so it's very dear to my heart. I wear these comfortable, yet stylish shoes when I'm traveling, because they are easy to slip on and off during security checks."Newbark Camilla Snake-Print and Perforated Leather Flats, $595; net-a-porter.com Josie Maran (1) "I was recently gifted this water-carbonator, and I'm addicted to it. It's more foolproof, eco-friendly way to get a refreshing bottle of sparkling water without buying a bunch of plastic bottles."SodaStream Penguin Sparkling Water Maker, $199.95; williams-sonoma.com(2) "One of my favorite gifts to give is a great hat. It's so much easier than a shirt or a dress, because you don't have to worry about sizing, but you can still make it personal. I love this one from Free People. Here's to hoping someone gets it for me for Mother's Day!"Free People Salena Crochet Texture Hat, $78; freepeople.com Maureen Kelly Claim to Fame: Founder and CEO of Tarte CosmeticsHometown: Spring Lake, New JerseyParental Stats: Sully, son, 5 years old; Finn, son, 4 years old Maureen Kelly (1) "I live at the beach year-round, so easy-breezy dresses that I can throw on are necessities. The fun summer colors in this one are just so pretty."Shoshanna Virgiania Acacia Print Silk Dress, $350; piperlime.com(2) "I’m obsessed with our new primer. True to the name, it creates an air-brushed effect when it's worn alone or under a foundation—it’s amazing."Tarte Clean Slate Poreless 12-Hr Perfecting Primer, $30; sephora.com Maureen Kelly (1) "Double whammy: This ring is sustainable and luxe! It’s made with recycled 14-karat gold, and the violet stone is gorgeous."Loud Love Jewelry Diamond Saucer Ring, $187, loudlovejewelry.com(2) "I love the cheeky three-month reminders on these toothbrush handles. It’s the perfect way to teach my boys when they should replace their own smile scrubbers."Izola Months Toothbrush Set, $12.50; izola.com Lela Rose Claim to Fame: Fashion designer for Lela Rose and collaborator with PaylessHometown: New York CityParental Stats: Son, Grey, 10; daughter, Rosey, 5 Lela Rose (1) "This color-depositing duo gives your shade a temporary pick-me-up. For me, there is never enough glimmer or gold in my strands!"Ted Gibson Individual Color Shampoo and Conditioner, $24.95 each; beauty.com(2) "Oh, do I covet these shoes! They are the perfect classic shape in a fabulous color and bold pattern. I can see myself wearing them during the day with dresses or even more casually with rolled-up jeans."Charlotte Olympia Lain Stripes Platform Pumps, $950; neimanmarcus.com Lela Rose (1) "How great is this reversible necklace? The mix of texture and color can dress up any outfit!"Orly Genger by Jaclyn Mayer Fosil Necklace, $320; jaclynmayer.com(2) "I love these napkins as they are perfect conversation starters and set the mood for a fun dinner party. They are especially ideal for a birthday where each guest gets his or her own party hat."Sharyn Blond for Kemble Party Hat Towels, $53–$83; deringhall.com Lisa Price Claim to Fame: Founder of Carol's Daughter and author of the memoir, Success Never Smelled So SweetHometown: New York CityParental Stats: Son, Forrest,16; Son, Ennis, 14; daughter, Becca, daughter, 5 Lisa Price (1) "Everyone in my house has different coffee tastes, and it would be great to not always have to make a full pot of something."Keurig Elite Brewing System, $119; macys.com(2) "I'm known for wearing scarves from American Apparel, H&M, and Indian bazaars. But, I feel like an Hermès scarf just makes you an 'adult.' I probably won't indulge myself, but I would welcome the gift."Hermès Trésors Retrouvés Scarf, $410; hermes.com(3) "Though I make this set, I wouldn't be upset if it was gifted to me. The floral-scented trio helps hair grow."Carol's Daughter Monoi Repairing Collection 3-Piece Starter Kit, $24; carolsdaughter.com Lisa Price (1) "I adore fresh flowers, especially roses. I once gifted my mother's sisters with roses for six months for Mother's Day. I got as much joy out of it as they did, because they called me every month to tell me about the month's selection and how long it lasted."Calyx Flowers Spring Jewel Orchids, $42.95–$99.85; calyxflowers.com(2) "I have been admiring these bags on women around the city for a while now. They are cute, practical, fun, well-made, and sold at a great price."The Cambridge Satchel Company Leather Satchel, $198.15; asos.com Sonia Kashuk Claim to Fame: Makeup artist, founder of Sonia Kashuk CosmeticsHometown: New York CityParental Stats: Song, Jonah, 16; daughter, Sadye, 13 Sonia Kashuk (1) "I can never have enough exercise clothes. The soft, stretchy garments in this line will keep your mother comfortable and stylish during any activity."Lululemon Turbo Run Shorts, $54; lululemon.com(2) "This regimen of luxuriously rich hair-care products instantly transforms hair, making women look and feel stunning!"Oribe Conditioner For Beautiful Color, $39; oribe.com(3) "My spring collection includes easy-to-wear shades, colorful accessories, and cases that double as clutches–all under $25!"Sonia Kashuk Limited Edition Brush Set, $14.99; target.com Sonia Kashuk (1) "Mix and match all of the different patterns and colors in this chic, but exotic bedding brand for a personalized gift."John Robshaw Textiles Privat Quilt, $325–$424, and Privat Sham, $80–$90; at johnrobshaw.com(2) "While it may be an extravagant choice, this timeless bangle is perfect for the elegant mom. The gold letter 'h' can symbolize 'happiness.'"Hermés Clic H Bracelet, $610; hermes.com(3) "This wonderfully aromatic candle fills rooms with an intoxicating mix of tuberose, jasmine, lavender, geranium, and white rose. It's a staple in my home and office."Vie Luxe Tuileries Deluxe Candle, $48; saksfifthavenue.com Dara Torres Claim to Fame: 12-time Olympic medalist for swimming, New York Times best-selling author of Gold Medal Fitness: A Revolutionary 5-Week ProgramHometown: Parkland, FloridaParental Stats: Daughter, Tessa, 6 Dara Torres (1) "I would like fun, different cooking utensils. I feel like I've outgrown the ones I own, because I've had them for so long. Being a single mom with a daughter who just likes macaroni and cheese doesn’t make you too motivated to cook. But when I have people over, I try to do fancier dishes."Joseph Joseph Elevate Carousel Tool Set, $49.95; surlatable.com(2) "When it’s hot outside, I don’t want to wear a thick lotion, so I save this one for nighttime. I could see myself giving it to a friend in a gift basket filled with other moisturizers and housewares."Amlactin Ultra Hydrating Body Cream, $17.96; amazon.com Dara Torres (1) "I love a plain, soft tee, either oversized and hanging off my shoulders or form-fitted with a cute V-neck."Eileen Fisher Linen Gauze V-Neck Tunic with Rounded Hem in Strawberry, $188; neimanmarcus.com(2) "I love mixing and matching different bangles. I used to be old-school and kept my belt and watch in the same metal, but now I think it's fun to wear a bunch at once and pile them on my arm."Apt. 9 Gold Tone Bangle Bracelet Sets, $15 each; kohls.com | 4 | 1,084 | lifestyle |
Recognize when you, your spouse or your kids could use a break from each other Togetherness Overload"Too much of a good thing" tends to apply to chocolate consumption and marathons of The Real Housewives, not to something as wholesome as family togetherness. After all, research shows that children who spend a lot of time with their families do better in school, make better choices and are happier. But hanging out too often, especially if you force it, can cause problems like making kids dependent and leaving parents feeling resentful. These 10 warning signs tell you when it's time to take a break. 1. You and your husband haven't been to the movies in five years……because you won't leave your kids with a babysitter. It's tough to tell whose separation anxiety is more agonizing: yours or your little ones'. But hire a sitter anyway for the kids! "Life has turned into one long, teachable moment, but we think we're the only teachers," says Lenore Skenazy, author of Free Range Kids: How to Raise Safe, Self-Reliant Children Without Going Nuts with Worry. "Children learn a lot from us, but also from other people, including babysitters" things like adaptability, resilience, even new vocabulary words. Plus, research shows that the more couple time (read: date nights!) you have, the happier and more stable your marriage will be. That's a better deal for your kids than a night with Mom. 2. Your kid begs you to play endless rounds of Sorry, and mopes if you pass.It's the parent-as-TV model: Children whose parents constantly entertain them can lose the ability to play creatively and independently. A little boredom actually can boost their imagination, though. Plus, it's good for kids to see that you won't cater to their every whim. "My little guy always wants to play," says Denise Schipani, author of Mean Moms Rule. "He says, 'Come play a game with me.' The other day I said, 'I play with you a lot, but I can't play with you all the time.'" 3. You're offended when your teen opts out of taco night to sleep over her BFF's house.It hurts that teenagers need (and want) you around less, but "being with their friends is really important," says psychologist Eileen Kennedy-Moore, PhD, author of Smart Parenting for Smart Kids: Nurturing Your Child's True Potential."It's part of their identity, and they feel left out if they miss something." Consider your kid's "see you later" as an opportunity to get back in touch with who you are, and what you like to do, when you're not being a mom. We're guessing it doesn't involve taco night. 4. Your six-year-old wants to chat with you in the bathroom as you pee. Every family has different boundaries, but if this happens, it's time to explain privacy, which most kids start to understand around age five, says New York based pediatrician Alanna Levine, MD, author of Raising a Self-Reliant Child. Try saying, "There are some things like blowing your nose that you can do in public and other activities that are private." A household policy of "knock before entering" can help everyone get their space. 5. You're torn about accepting a job promotion because of your kid's sports schedule. "A lot of moms feel like they can't lean in because they have to spend all their time with their kids," says Skenazy, who advises companies on creating work-life balance for employees. "But we don't have to lavish as much attention on our kids as we think we should. Don't latch yourself to the desk, but don't feel so guilty if you can't watch every soccer practice." It's wise to figure out how a new job will affect family time, but passing up opportunities can leave you simmering with resentment not a good cocktail for family happiness. 6. You call in sick to girls' night out because you feel like you're abandoning your family.Mom guilt can make you reluctant to do something for yourself, but your kids should see you as "a whole person living a whole life, because that's what you want for them," says Schipani. In other words, when Mom has coffee with friends, your kids realize you're more than just their mother. But never mind life lessons for your kids. Take time out because it's fun for you! "You might sign up your kid for tap dancing lessons. Why shouldn't you have tap dancing lessons? It has nothing to do with your kid; it has something to do with you as a person." 7. Your child has been talking for five minutes, but you haven't heard a word.If you never left your job, would you pay as much attention to your inbox as you do when you arrive in the morning? Time apart from your kids offers a similar refresh, so it's easier to concentrate on them when you're together. "Say, 'For the next 30 minutes, we're going to play together and not do anything else,'" suggests Dr. Levine. "It doesn't have to be a huge quantity of time, but you want your child to feel she has your undivided attention so she can look forward to it." When time's up, you can focus on other things sans guilt. 8. Your teens stay up late watching TV with you so you and your husband never talk anymore.On the one hand, you're thrilled your teenagers want to spend time with their parents. On the other, their omnipresence can leave you feeling disconnected from your spouse. "Say, 'Mom and Dad just want to hang out,'" suggests Dr. Kennedy-Moore. Or choose other ways to work couple time into your family schedule. "My friend used to go into the city with her husband for breakfast. They'd come home at 2 P.M. and the teenager hadn't budged." 9. You haul your kids along to grown-up events.Schlepping your tots to adults-only gatherings because you can't stand leaving them behind annoys everyone including your children! "I was giving a lecture in a ballroom of people, and a couple of parents were trying valiantly to keep their toddlers occupied," says Skenazy. "Here's the thing: There was free babysitting across the hall!" Sitting in a boring conference vs. playing with a bunch of new toys? No contest for your kid. Child care emergencies happen, but if you can help it, don't bring wee ones where they won't feel comfortable. 10. Everyone in your family has stopped saying thank you. "There's a concept in psychology called habituation, which means you get used to what's always there," says Dr. Kennedy-Moore. "A little missing allows people to look forward to being with someone." If you're taken for granted or ignored because you're constantly around, take a break. Sign up for a night class, slip out for a walk or lock yourself in your bedroom with a good book. Your children may be more grateful to have you around and you'll definitely be happier to see them. | 4 | 1,085 | lifestyle |
. Is there anything sweeter than a child bonding with their parent? We don't think so. To that end, we found our favorite photos of dads having sleepy-time with their wee ones. If you don't fall madly in love with each picture, well, there's nothing more we can do for you. Multitasking! That's not a fun way to wake up Practicing the art of camouflage Good god, there are two of them now! Nothing like a little bonding time How he fit in there is anyone's guess, but if it works, it works Like father, like daughter It's a family affair ... the whole family Ooh, a fresh one! This move is called the "Papa Bear" And the coup de grâce: the face plant! | 4 | 1,086 | lifestyle |
More from Woman's Day: 12 Surprising Facts About Cheating 8 Calming Foods That Ease Stress 10 Secrets Of Healthy Relationships Get Trim and Toned In 10 Minutes 9 Tips For Younger-Looking Eyes 10 Style Tricks To Look Younger Instantly Adoptive families hear lots of things from friends and strangers alike. But many remarks and questions make these families uncomfortable, even if you don't mean to be intrusive. "People unfamiliar with adoption may think they're showing interest or support by asking questions," says adoption educator Ellen Singer, a licensed certified clinical social worker with the Center for Adoption Support and Education in Burtonsville, MD. "But some comments can be upsetting or damaging to families." Here are the top eight things you should avoid bringing up, what you can say instead and when to keep quiet. 1. Which one is your real child? This question is a button-pusher for many families with both adoptive and biological children. "Every child in the family is their child," says Amanda Baden, PhD, a licensed psychologist specializing in adoption in New York City and associate professor at Montclair State University in Montclair, NJ. "This question sends the message that the only authentic way to form a family is biologically." Not that it's appropriate to ask if the adopted child isn't present, but it's worse if you ask in front of her; the comment makes it sound as if she's less important than the other family members. "The term 'real' is absurd, as if my daughter is a 'pretend' or 'fake' child," says Marilys Scheindel, a mom of two in Maine. The experts agree: Stay away from this question, no matter how curious you are. Bing: The journey to adoption 2. He's so lucky to have been adopted by you. Even if you're trying to compliment an adoptive parent, you're implying she "rescued" the child or that adoption is an act of charity, says Singer. The statement also discounts what the child's given up. "Adoption involves loss," says Megan Terry, a mom of three who blogs about adoption at Millions of Miles . "It's the loss of the child's first family, familiar surroundings, rituals, routines and often the birth country, culture and language. To say he's 'lucky' invalidates his experiences and feelings." A better approach: Say something like, "What a wonderful family you are," says family therapist Leigh Leslie, PhD, associate professor at the University of Maryland in College Park and a researcher in transracial adoption. 3. How much did it cost to adopt? People often ask this insensitive question, which makes parents cringe. "It sounds like you're referring to the child as a purchase," says Dr. Baden. In addition, it's incredibly invasive. "Yes, there are fees associated with adoption, as there are with childbirth," notes Alison Noyce, a mom of four who blogs about adoption at They're All My Own . "Besides, this information is available on the Internet." If you're considering adopting, ask, "Can you please refer me to organizations or classes where we can learn more about adoption?" instead of requesting personal financial details. If you're not looking into adoption, steer clear of this question altogether. 4. You'll probably get pregnant now that you've adopted. First of all, "The comment makes it seem as if this child is not as valuable as a biological child or that the family is somehow 'settling' for this child," says Dr. Leslie. Secondly, it assumes all families adopt due to infertility issues, which isn't at all the case. Instead of speaking about the child as if she's second-best, celebrate the joy the family feels about having a new family member. A simple "Congratulations!" is all that's necessary. 5. Why was she given up? This question has many variations, including "What do you know about her background?" or "What happened to his birth mom?" In any form, they're intensely personal and usually not something families wish to share with anyone. "Think of it as similar to being asked in what position you conceived your child," says Dr. Baden. Plus, there's a chance the family doesn't know the answer to your question, and asking them puts them in an awkward position. Bottom line: "This is not one to ask, ever," says Terry. "It's my son's story, not mine. We shouldn't expect children's stories to be a matter of public record." 6. Are your children siblings? The unspoken message is that there's a difference between adoptive and biological siblings, says Dr. Leslie. "My kids are obviously brother and sister because we adopted them both," says Scheindel. Another reason not to ask this: Again, the child's background is his or her story and doesn't have to be shared with everyone. Instead of concentrating on a topic that's truly not your business, offer a genuine compliment such as, "Your children are so well-mannered." 7. What if she searches for her real parents? "This kind of question perpetuates the myth that adoptive families are only 'babysitting' until their children locate their biological parents," says Singer. It also reveals a misunderstanding about adoption today it's not the closed system it was in decades past. "Many people don't realize that the days are gone when families wouldn't tell a child she was adopted, as if it were something to be ashamed of," says Terry. Though there's less of a stigma about being adopted, it's still best to avoid this question, say the experts. 8. Why did you choose international adoption when there are so many kids who need homes here? "Asking parents to justify how a beloved child came to be theirs is hurtful," says Noyce. "There are children all over the world who need families. No child is more deserving of a family than another, regardless of where he or she was born." Avoid these judgmental remarks, and focus on the happiness the child brings, rather than her birthplace. If you'd like to show support to a close friend who's adopted internationally, Terry suggests checking out books and websites about the child's birth country, if the parents have shared that information with you. More from MSN Living: 15 incredible baby nurseries Inexpensive, fun stuff to do with your kids 30+ best apps for kids 10 secret mom confessions | 4 | 1,087 | lifestyle |
1. It's OK to admit motherhood isn't fun , that you're exhausted and that you resent your husband because he gets to go out into the world while you wipe noses and butts for a living. 2. Not breastfeeding will not kill your baby , regardless of whether your friends make you feel otherwise. 3. Don't sweat the small stuff, and unless your child has a serious illness, it's all small stuff. 4. Take the time to shower. Every single day. 5. Remember: They will always stop crying … eventually. 6. You don't need a Diaper Genie or a wipe warmer . 7. Sometimes you'll feel like throwing them out of a window. And that's ok… as long as you don't actually do it. 8. Don't compare yourself to others. All you can be is the best mother you can be. 9. Put the baby in his or her "nice clothes." Who cares if they get dirty? Save your favorite outfits and your baby may grow too quickly to ever wear them. 10. Don't judge other parents. They have no idea what they are doing either. 11. Take videos of your kids. Pictures are great, too, but video captures the moment in a way photos can't. 12. Get out of the house while they're in the infant seat. That's the easiest it's ever going to be. 13. Don't take things too seriously. You won't completely screw up your kids if they miss a vegetable, a bath, fall asleep in their clothes or get away with things once in a while. 14. Nobody else knows what's best for your baby. 15. Let them get messy. That's what baths are for. 16. Take time to refuel … It's not selfish to take care of yourself. 17. Pick your battles . Sometimes it's not worth the fight. 18. Parenthood is defined by extremes : Extreme happiness, extreme frustration, extreme love, extreme guilt… Learn to let go, breathe, and try to find the happy in each day. 19. The parents who look like they have it all together are almost always a bigger mess than you . 20. You're doing a great job. Relax. More from Scary Mommy: The Difference in Parenting a First and a Third Child 25 Ways You Know You're a Stay at Home Mom A Letter of Apology To My Middle Child 33 Reasons Moms are Late I Wasn't A Good Mom | 4 | 1,088 | lifestyle |
Yes, you can do these! Reindeer Thumbprint Ornament This adorable ornament isn't just a cute decoration but a perfect personalized gift to give to all your family and friends you see throughout the holiday season. The thumbprint makes it a precious keepsake -- just don't forget to write the year and a name on the ornament! Christmas Dinner Place Markers These place markers are a cute way for the kids to help plan the holiday festivities and to let them know who will be visiting for Christmas dinner. Yarn Wreath Ornaments Not your usual green and red, these colorful yarn wreaths can be made in any color your kids like, and look festive when hung on the Christmas tree or as a decoration on a wrapped gift. Salt Dough Ornaments Raise your hand if you loved making salt dough ornaments as a kid… and remember exactly how it tastes! These are the classic holiday ornaments that kids can help with every step, from mixing the dough to painting the baked shapes. Santa Cork Ornaments These cute little Santas can play double-duty… as both ornaments or as a cute Santa bowling game! Start collecting all those wine corks now. Penguin Light Bulb Ornaments These cute penguin s are a clever way to upcycle old light bulbs and make a perfect classroom craft or a great family craft night activity. Make a pack of penguins for your own tree or gift them to friends and neighbors. Terra Cotta Pot Snowmen If it's too cold outside to build a real snowman, then get out your craft supplies and create a snowman inside. The best part these little snowmen will never melt. Cupcake Liner Christmas Tree Who knew what you could do with cupcake liners? These festive trees will make for an eye-catching centerpiece at any holiday table, or simply place them along the fireplace mantle for an easy holiday display. Clothespin Card Hanging Wreath Wondering what to do with all those holiday cards from family and friends? Well, this clothespin wreath is your answer. Display all those beautiful faces and warm holiday messages from family and friends and your home will be filled with love. Muffin Pan Advent Calendar Count down the days until Christmas with this creative calendar that hides little surprises. Your kids will race to see what is behind each number every morning. One of the most creative advent calendars we've ever seen! Paper Wreath This wreath craft is a simple way to decorate for a Christmas party: simply string them across the ceiling and they'll instantly add festive flair. This craft only requires a few supplies, but is a little trickier so it may be better for older kids. Santa Handprint Craft Handprint crafts are easy and so much fun to do with the kids. Each Santa is one of a kind and the cotton balls give it a little personality! This Santa hand craft is sure to make moms smile. Reindeer Wrapped Chocolate Bars This is a cute way to turn a basic chocolate bar into a holiday treat that kids will adore. The best part no baking required! Snowflake Ornament A photo craft is one of the best ways to give someone a special keepsake and a gift from the heart during the holiday season. These personalized snowflakes can also be attached to gift bags or a container of freshly baked holiday treats. Festive Hanukkah Favors Kids love little wrapped gifts, and these prize poppers will be a hit during this Hanukkah season. Not only are they great party favors, but they also make for stunning decorations. Display these in bowls and small clusters around the house -- or you can even hide them for the kids to find. Hanukkah Wreath There are so many creative ways to make a holiday wreath. This Hanukkah wreath with the Star of David is a great project for kids to do together. Hanukkah Paper Plate Craft One of my favorite Hanukkah crafts for kids is this simple Star of David paper plate craft . All it takes is a few hole-punches, craft twine and blue glitter and you have a great Hanukkah decoration. Star of David Mobile This mobile is perfect for hanging over a dessert table. Or, create a banner and string them across the fireplace. You can also attach them on top of a Hanukkah gift. Upcycled Glass Menorah Kids love lighting the Menorah each night, and this upcycled bottle Menorah is a crafty way to get them even more excited. You can also have each child decorate the bottles with glitter or other craft materials to personalize and customize each one. | 4 | 1,089 | lifestyle |
For many, summer means getting outside and spending quality time with four-legged friends. Sometimes that's a game of fetch in the backyard, but sometimes it's fun in the sun (and sand) at the beach. Luckily, there are a number of beaches in the United States that let you bring your pooch as long as you follow the rules, of course. Here are eight beaches that you can visit with your dog. Algiers Beach (Gulfside City Park), Florida Beach rules: Located on Sanibel Island, the beach allows dogs as long as owners clean up after them and they are leashed. Leashes cannot be more than 8 feet long.Beach details: Plenty of space allows you and your dog to get ample exercise or just take a break from your busy life. The tropical nature of the island and the nearby nature preserve makes this beach even more of an exotic getaway. Picnic areas and barbecue grills are available, and the area offers plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and accommodations, making an extended stay an easy option. Jeremy Kane, who has been going to Algiers Beach with his dog Willow since he moved to the area in 2008, says the variety of sea smells excites his canine pal. "The beach itself is fabulous wide, never congested, and should we wish it, we can walk for nearly 4 miles east and double that to the west," Kane says. Montrose Dog Beach, Chicago Beach rules: Dogs can enjoy the sand and water off-leash in this dog-friendly area of Montrose Beach. Dogs have to be leashed only upon entering or exiting the area, and owners are responsible for immediately cleaning up after their pets. All dogs must have a current Chicago Park District DFA tag.Beach details: Pet owners love how clean this beach is, and visitors tend to be respectful enough to keep it that way. Montrose gets busy on the weekends, but it never gets so crowded that you won't be able to find space." My dogs love the water and socializing with other dogs," says Kristy Boulos, who has been going to the beach for about six years. "I live in the city, so it's nice to have a close option for some fun in the sun… I also like that they can easily cool off after running around. It's a nice opportunity for me to relax and spend some fun time in the sun with them, while they are also getting some great exercise." Cannon Beach, Oregon Beach rules: Your dog is welcome at any time on this beach, as long as you have him under control either with a leash or your voice.Beach details: The beach is about an hour's drive from Portland, and the rock formations jutting out of the water, especially Haystack Rock, will be unlike anything you've seen. It's also close to Ecola State Park, so you can continue your day outdoors with a fun hike with your dog once you've had your fill of the beach. Originally from Seattle, Emmas Lindsay fell in love with the beach six years ago during her first visit with her 11-month-old Lab. Eventually she decided to make it a more permanent home, opening a shop called Dogs Allowed at the beach. "We continued coming here because it is the friendliest town we have been to," she says. "The beach is clean, [has] soft sand, [is] not rocky like most of the Washington State beaches, [and] hotels don't treat dog owners like second-class citizens but offer oceanfront rooms of the standard that people without dogs experience." Galveston Beaches, Texas Beach rules: Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed.Beach details: Located on a barrier island off the Texas coast, the long stretch of beaches offers plenty to do, such as bird watching, an annual sand castle competition and a variety of activities for the whole family. It can be quite a popular getaway in the summer, but if it gets too crowded for your taste, you can escape to nearby Galveston Island State Park (which also welcomes leashed pets on park grounds outside of park buildings) for a picnic or camping. David Richey used to own a house on Sea Isle Beach (one of the Galveston Beaches), which he frequented with his dog. Since they moved, he still travels back at least once a month during the offseason to visit. "The main thing we enjoyed in Galveston was how long the beach stretches, and we can walk or bike with [our dog] for miles," Richey says. "She loves to run with the pelicans and chase the crabs." Block Island, Rhode Island Beach rules: The public beaches on Block Island all allow dogs as long as they remain leashed.Beach details: The 17 miles of flat, wide beach mean you usually won't run into too many other people, and you and your dog will also discover some historical landmarks, lighthouses and cool bluffs. It's a hidden gem in Rhode Island. Tracy Finn goes to Scotch Beach and Mansions Beach (both on Block Island) with her dog. "They're both lovely early in the morning before other beachgoers arrive and at the end of the day. Block Island is an extremely dog-friendly place, and most people are happy to see [and] meet dogs and their humans," Finn says. Nags Head Beach, North Carolina Beach rules: Nags Head Beach is another great option if you're looking for a beach where your dog will be welcome all year long. The only rule here is that he must be leashed.Beach details: As your family and dog enjoy the beach, you can take advantage of many of the shoreline sports available, such as sailing. There's also plenty of history to discover, with a historic district featuring beautiful architecture, not to mention the nearby town of Kitty Hawk. Roberta Thuman, public information officer for the Town of Nags Head, visits the beach often with her dog. "After a few hours of digging holes in the sand, walking in the surf and playing with other pups, our dog falls fast asleep with what looks like a smile on her face," Thuman says. Marconi Beach, Massachusetts Beach rules: This beach is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore and allows dogs as long as they're leashed.Beach details: The rolling dunes, white sand and bluffs make this an especially picturesque beach on Cape Cod. It's peaceful, and the sand is free of rocks, allowing you and your dog a smooth walk. Roxanna Sarmiento went to the beach with her dog Lola during her Cape Cod vacation. "It's a very clean beach, [with] tons of shells for the kids and space for the dog," she says, adding that there's a lot of room to spread out and views sure to capture the whole family's imagination. Huntington Dog Beach, California Beach rules: This section of Huntington Beach is the perfect place to lounge on the sand with your pup. Dogs here must be leashed at all times, and owners have to pick up after them.Beach details: Just an hour from Los Angeles, this is a convenient beach for many Southern Californians. And since the area has relatively few dog-friendly beaches, it's truly a haven for dogs and their owners. Most people respect the rules though the leash rule has become more lax recently and each other. If you visit in September, you can even catch the annual Surf City Surf Dog competition. Lena Volk has been taking her dog Mimzy to this dog-friendly area for the past four years. Volk says it's a great dog community that has daily meeting spots both on the beach and in nearby neighborhoods where owners and dogs can socialize. "Mimzy is a German Shepherd trapped in a 5-pound Pomeranian body, so Dog Beach gives her time to let out her inner big dog. She can run freely, play with other friendly dogs, and there's plenty of sandy beach space for her to avoid being clobbered by our Surf City waves," she says. "They keep the beach clean and provide plenty of doggie bag areas for owners to clean up after their pups." | 4 | 1,090 | lifestyle |
Tesla Motors has been fighting to sell cars in many states, but has come up against laws prohibiting the electric automaker to exercise its direct-to-consumer business model. Such has been the case in Pennsylvania . Recently, though, Tesla worked out a deal with the Pennsylvania senate to approve a bill allowing five Tesla stores in the state, with the blessing of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers . The bill, though crafted with Tesla in mind, doesn't specifically name the California-based company. That bill made it to the desk of Governor Tom Corbett last month, who signed it into law , opening the door for Tesla to sell more cars in the state . The legislation exempts electric vehicles from a law that bars manufacturers from opening their own dealerships. Nathan Spade, senior aide to the bill's sponsor Senator John Rafferty, called the bill "a means to provide the consumer with another option" and "a positive addition to the marketplace in Pennsylvania." Two members of the state House voted against the bill: Representatives Mark Gillen and Daryl Metcalfe, both Republicans. Gillen explains that he felt the bill gave Tesla special treatment, which goes against his free-market values. In addition to allowing Tesla to open new stores in the state, the new law also officially legitimises the automaker's current store in the King of Prussia Mall, about which there have questions concerning legality. It isn't clear if the Board of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers approved that store in 2013 made a mistake, but that point appears to be moot now. Tesla also currently has plans to open a store in Devon, PA. Tesla still has some pretty big barriers to contend with in other states, though. In Texas, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia and Arizona, for example. The battle continues between the automaker and dealership associations. | 9 | 1,091 | autos |
More from YourTango How I Let Go Of My Resentment Toward My Mom 3 Tips To Prepare For Couples Counseling How To Save Your Marriage When You Feel Hopeless Parenting Tips For Divorced Couples Love: Tips & Expert Advice By Leila Reyes for YourTango.com Think it's noble to stay married for the kids? Think again! I'm going to give you my take on what happens when you sacrifice your own happiness for the kids. Let me tell you that I know, because I did it! In other words, I know you have really good reasons! More from YourTango: Relationship Resolutions For Women Over 50 Staying married for the kids seems like a good idea and I'm confident that your heart is in the right place. You don't want to cause your children unnecessary suffering, you want your children to have an intact family, and you want them to grow up normal. Myth #1: Your kids will be different than the other kids! Guess what? According to recent statistics, 40-50% of first marriages end in divorce. You might be shocked to learn that the divorce rate is higher for second marriages. While your kids may have been outcasts in the fifties, today it's common to be a child of divorce. Whether you stay married or not, your kids will not stand out as being different. Unless of course, you make a big deal of it. Rosalind Sedacca's book, How to Tell the Kids About Divorce is my personal favorite recommendation because she helps you normalize the experience for your children. Divorce is a part of life an unplanned part, but a part none-the-less. Some people will tell their children, "We don't have a family anymore!" That's simply not true! The best gift you can give your children is to help them adjust by holding your divorce as a life transition and teaching them that they do have a family and it just looks different. No right or wrong. No judgment or blame. Just, "This is what we've got! Let's make some lemonade!" Myth #2: Staying will prevent suffering! Guess again! While I truly believe suffering is optional, circumstances aren't. Your children have just as much potential for suffering when you choose to stay in a marriage as if you leave. What are you teaching your children by staying in a loveless marriage? Are you teaching them commitment? Or are you teaching them to sacrifice their happiness for others? Your children learn from watching you more than what you say. I guarantee that if you stay in a bad relationship, then your children will learn to do the same. Do you really want your children to learn from you how to not be happy? I'm not saying you shouldn't give your marriage all you've got! You should! If you've tried everything and have resigned yourself to an unhappy relationship, then let me take you through the Spiritual Divorce™ process or join me for a study of Spiritual Divorce and show you, in a last ditch effort, how to make your marriage work or move on with confidence you're doing the right thing for everyone yourself and your children! Myth #3: Your kids will be scarred for life! Okay, maybe this one is true! But, honestly they're going to be scarred one way or another. The difference is how you handle things. How do you treat your ex? How do you talk about your ex to your kids? I'm not concerned about how your ex treats you or talks about you as that is something you have absolutely no control over and is irrelevant in relation to your kids. Remember, your kids learn by watching you. If your divorce is nasty and painful (most are), then this may be particularly challenging for you. But, here is a truth: Your children do not need you to point out how awful your ex is. They will watch and make up their own minds. Let this experience grow you into the person you want to be and your children will be proud of you. They will learn how to treat people by watching you. Identify three qualities to cultivate in yourself and start working on those. Teach your children, through your example, how to move on with dignity (even if you're being treated unfairly), teach your children how to take the high road, teach your children how to set boundaries without resorting to blaming or shaming to get your way. It Doesn't Have To Be All Bad! Divorce really is awful. Everyone gets hurt, especially the kids. But, you can use your divorce as an opportunity to become more loving with yourself, to evolve your soul, to heal old wounds. I'd love to support you through the process of healing your heart, regaining your power, and creating a wonderful life for yourself and your kids in the midst of a very painful life experience. Ready? I am! This article originally appeared on YourTango.com: 3 Reasons Why Staying Married For The Kids May Backfire | 4 | 1,092 | lifestyle |
Get inspired to try one of the long bob haircuts with the best cuts in Hollywood. {none} We love pixie haircuts: they're daring and yet they have a feminine quality to them. But we know that not every woman can pull off the bold look. That's where long bob haircuts come in. They flatter all face shapes, as long as you find the right variation.Oval Long bob haircuts with bangs look great on oval face shapes because they break up the length. Go bold with blunt bangs or subtler with side bangs that make the hair look longer.Heart Because this face shape doesn' exude a lot of strong features, it pairs nicely with any cut. However, if the chin is very pronounced, keep the length of the hair at least two inches past the jawline. Add volume with waves or texture to blend the jaw.Round Short hair makes round faces look wider. Keep the cut longer in the front with layers or go asymmetrical with the hair an inch or two shorter in the back.Square To soften the jaw, keep the length well past the jawline. Style the hair curly or wavy to blend the hair into the face. {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} {none} | 4 | 1,093 | lifestyle |
Here are eight of the most extreme trips on the planet -- and the outfitters that take adventurers over the edge and back again. Go where few have gone A century ago, a majority of the planet's residents never managed to make it further than a few hundred miles from their birthplaces. Now, with one billion international arrivals a year, travelers are spreading into the last unexplored corners of the globe. The demand for bigger, better, and more adventurous experiences is skyrocketing. "There's an accessibility that there never was before, and people can do things that were once unimaginable," says Shannon Stowell, president of the Adventure Travel Trade Association. "If you can think of it and Google it, there's probably someone who can take you." Here are eight of the most extreme trips on the planet and the outfitters that take adventurers over the edge and back again. BING: TOP THINGS TO DO & SEE BEFORE YOU DIE Ocean row events When Leven Brown rowed solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 2005, he battled four hurricanes, lost 70 pounds, and set a world record. He liked it so much that he decided to row across the ocean again, but this time, he wanted to take some friends and cut down the price tag, which originally topped $150,000. So, in 2006, the portly, bearded British skipper founded Ocean Row Events, a company that arranges rowing expeditions across oceans and other extremely large bodies of water.Since then, Brown has organized six trans-ocean rowing trips and set seven world records, including the fastest crossing of the North Atlantic and the longest distance rowed in 24 hours. The company's next expedition is a 3,000-mile journey between the Canary Islands and Barbados slated for January 2014. The goal? Break the 30-day mid-Atlantic speed record, distance rowing's four-minute mile. As of October 10, there was still space for crew members in the second of two boats.Surprisingly, what it takes to row an ocean isn't necessarily big quadriceps, rowing skills, or even expedition experience. "Character, character, character," says Brown. "We call it the X factor" or what translates loosely to an ability to withstand a lot of pain and tedium on a boat the size of a bedroom without getting into a fistfight with any of your seven crewmates. "You can teach most people to row, but if they can't deal with sleep deprivation and the calorie deficit and the barrage on your senses, they're not going to be much use in our boats," Brown adds.It's tough out there. Crewmates sleep and row in two-hour shifts. Most people burn about 10,000 calories a day and lose a minimum of 30 pounds, endure plagues of salt-infested blisters, and tolerate the ever-present threat of 40-foot storm swells, lurking marine creatures, and passing freighters.There are, however, reasons rowers believe it's all worth it, such as seeing thousands-strong pods of dolphins and watching millions of stars spread across an unbroken sky. There is the preternatural stillness of the sea on a calm day, not to mention the joy of making it back to shore."Finally arriving at your destination and literally seeing hundreds of people and sometimes thousands, if you've broken a record, lining up to see your boat that's the moment when you know that you've done it and your name is in a very exclusive club," says Brown. "There's something like 4,000 people who have summited Everest. There's only about 500 who've attempted an ocean." More information: Ocean Row Events' next transatlantic row will take place in January 2014 and costs £15,000 (about $24,000). Most rowers raise the funds through corporate sponsorships. In 2014, Brown will also lead rows from Australia to Africa across the Indian Ocean (£20,000) and from Canada to Alaska through the Northwest Passage (£50,000). All expeditions are open to new rowers. Climb Mt. Everest About 60 years ago, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay climbed through icefalls, endured a blizzard, and kicked steps into walls of ice and rock to become the first people to summit Mt. Everest. Since then, about 4,000 have answered the call of the world's tallest mountain and successfully reached the peak. Today, guide services regularly lead amateur mountaineers to the top.The result of better weather forecasting and gear innovation is that more people than ever are flocking to Mt. Everest, which has suffered a bit from the strain trash piles and traffic jams on the popular routes have become common. But that doesn't mean that summiting isn't still a worthwhile and risky challenge for anyone serious about their bucket list.For about 90 percent of those who attempt the mountain, the first step is to pick the right guide service. One good choice: RMI Expeditions, which counts Dave Hahn, who has summited 15 times, and Seth Waterfall, who has summited three, among its lead guides. The outfitter trains prospective climbers on smaller peaks before leading them on a 70-plus-day expedition to base camp and up the mountain. Despite years of preparation and a fee that might be better used as a down payment on a house, there is no ironclad guarantee of safety or even a summit bid."Everest is like any other mountain but with more magnified risk," says Waterfall. "We guides try to mitigate as much of the risk as possible, but we can't eliminate it. There's a certain need for acceptance." But perhaps the uncertainty and risk of climbing the world's tallest mountain are a large part of Everest's enduring allure. More Information: An expedition to the summit of Mt. Everest with RMI Guides costs $65,000 and takes place between March and June each year. It can take about two years for guides to walk qualified clients through the training and preparation process. Ski to the North Pole No one would call skiing to the South Pole a cop-out, but a far more challenging prospect awaits on the other end of the axis. Whereas the South Pole journey is a long, hard, and boring slog over a frozen continent, the approach to the North Pole is an infuriating maze of ever-shifting pack ice."That's what we call the polar treadmill," says Annie Aggens, a guide with Polar Explorers, which pioneered commercial polar skiing expeditions in the nineties. "You're actually drifting with the currents and the wind. Overnight, you may have drifted one mile or even up to 10 miles and frequently you're moving away from the pole."The upside? With the changing scenery, skiers don't usually get bored. They do, however, get tired. It can take upwards of 50 days to ski from Resolute Bay, Canada to the pole, dodging polar bears, enduring temperatures that rarely peek out of the minuses, and driving into bone-freezing winds. But for those who learn cold-weather skills and develop the mental and physical stamina to pull a 150-pound sled every day for nearly two months, there are unspeakable rewards, like seeing rare, silent landscapes that few people will ever have the strength or resolve to see."Today, there aren't a lot of challenges where you can put yourself in a whole different realm," says Aggens. "For a lot of people, it's like stepping back in time and re-creating the footsteps of explorers they've read about since children." More Information:Full North Pole expeditions with Polar Explorers start at about $100,000 and include a five-day training program and all group equipment, skis, and sleeping gear. The company also runs shorter expeditions to the North Pole, such as dogsled trips and a 14-day ski trip, including a flight onto the pack ice (from $47,500), as well as expeditions to the South Pole. Incredible Adventures MiG Trips There are only a few ways a person can get a ride in a fighter jet. One is to join the air force. Another is to save up about $20,000 and travel to the Sokol Airbase in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, for one of the only commercial fighter jet rides on the planet."Riding a motorcycle at 145 miles per hour is like riding a tricycle compared to this," says Paul Cusma, a financial adviser from Tampa who flew in 2009 on a trip arranged by Florida-based outfitter Incredible Adventures, which has organized flights for well-heeled adrenaline addicts since 1993.On flight day, you'll need to pass a medical test. Once everyone is sure you're not going to have a heart attack, you'll be handed a pressure suit, a helmet, and a custom-fitted oxygen mask. A briefing on safety procedures what not to touch, what to do in case of ejection follows. Then comes the fun part. Climb into a MiG-29, and hold on while the pilot loops and rolls up to 18,000 feet. Withstand as much as 7 G's of force, travel faster than the speed of sound, and, if you have a pilot's license, consider taking the controls for a few moments. Another option: Have the pilot tilt the nose up and ascend to nearly 70,000 feet to see the curvature of the earth and the eerie blackness of space beyond. More Information: Incredible Adventures' five-day MiG Over Moscow trip to Russia, including luxury hotels, breakfasts, and one flight in a MiG-29 starts at $21,000. Zero-gravity flights and extra aerobatic flights are optional additions. DeepFlight Submarines If you're considering purchasing a personal submersible for your yacht, there is only one man in the world you'd want to build it. His name is Graham Hawkes, and he's been designing and producing submarines some 60 custom underwater vehicles alone for many decades. His most famous work remains the DeepFlight Challenger, which the late Steve Fossett commissioned and Richard Branson subsequently funded to race James Cameron to the bottom of the Marianas Trench, but there have been plenty of others.The Super Falcon is as far as these things go a far more practical manned submersible. Currently for sale on a custom basis and available for weeklong charters, this underwater plane doesn't yet take commercial passengers due to regulatory constraints, but Hawkes's company does offer underwater pilot training courses for its clients. And Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz is considering providing rides in his Falcon to guests at Laucala, his private island resort in Fiji.Nearly 21 feet long, the Super Falcon has two cockpits and resembles a tiny, futuristic plane. Unlike other submersibles, which troll the ocean floor, this one flies above it. As a pilot, you can perform rolls, explode out of the surface like a space-age whale, and sidle up to great white sharks, who, Hawkes says, tend to view the sub as one of their kind. Want to go deeper? No problem. Follow whales' songs 500 feet down and circle pods of resting humpbacks."If you're doing advanced maneuvering, the experience can be intense and breathtaking," says Adam Wright, president of DeepFlight. "But if you're doing it to view the underwater community, it's relaxing and magical." More information: Chartering a Super Falcon from DeepFlight starts at about $50,000 a week. Raft remote rivers Global Descents made a big splash in the rafting game by being the first company to offer amateurs access to remote rivers like India's raging Zanskar and Madagascar's remote Matsiatra. Never particularly profit-oriented, the company's founders have a tendency to tackle the nearly impossible with a sort of rebellious glee."We're river runners much more than businessmen," says owner Matt Gontram. "We're all about running rivers, so if someone calls me and says, Hey, I've always wanted to go do this river in Argentina, or anywhere we'd say, Let's go down and do it."Gontram's next project, the Usumacinta River, is a rapid-studded fire hose that marks the border between Mexico and Guatemala. Once the territory of Sandinistas, it has been off-limits for years, even though the conflict in Chiapas quieted down long ago. Though the river's rapids generally don't exceed Class III, the adventure quotient on the Usumacinta is high. It's one of the biggest rivers on the continent, flowing at 40,000 to 100,000 cubic feet per second (by comparison, the Colorado River does between 8,000 and 25,000 cfs through the Grand Canyon), and gigantic eddies and whirlpools flip boats like pancakes. But what is most interesting lies on shore. Rafters camp on empty beaches larger than football fields, then explore travertine pools and waterfalls the color of Windex, before checking out ancient Mayan ruins abandoned deep in the jungle. More Information: Global Descents' first raft trip down Mexico's Usumacinta River runs about $1,750. The outfitter also has upcoming expeditions on the Zambezi in Zambia, the Siang River in India, and the Futaleufu in Chile. | 4 | 1,094 | lifestyle |
A man with a plan gets more done. That's the motive for compiling the things you've gotta do before you die -- to which you can add these. Explore the Far East ... by private jet You fly private into Shanghai and are whisked to the Portman Ritz-Carlton. You waited in no lines, collected no baggage. It has all been taken care of. Awaiting you at the hotel are a cocktail and a stack of local currency. Your itinerary for the days that follow: a stroll through the Yuyuan Garden, a 450-year-old, historically significant gem that's considered one of the finest in China; a hydrofoil trip around the world's deepest lake and a visit to an 18th-century church; then a flight to the Gobi Desert to hunt fossils with your own archaeologist (one of a cadre of experts traveling with your group).It's a new kind of group travel that is nothing like group travel. TCS Expeditions creates "experiences people can't duplicate," says company founder TC Swartz. "The convenience, the comfort, the service, the access, the experts." While accommodations usually tip the scales of upscale, Swartz says, "If we think it's worthwhile to go to the Gobi Desert and stay in a tent camp there, we do that, too." And they provide gourmet meals and arrange for hot water in advance.Cultural and historical experiences like these are too obscure to find their way onto normal tours: the Siberian Tiger Park in Harbin, Manchuria; a camel caravan across desert dunes in Mongolia; a Buddhist monastery in Russia; a luxurious soak at the Arasan Baths in Kazakhstan; the vineyards and markets along China's Silk Road. All in just 20 days, so you'll be home before your guidebooks are due back at the library. Eat a living thing Slitting open my first silver salmon, minutes from the water, to reveal its eggs, the only reasonable next move was to dig my fingers right in, scoop out a hefty slab of the orange spheres, hold them up against the deep blue sky, and slide them into my mouth. They popped between my teeth, releasing a cool, salty brine: the most pleasingly mild, sweet taste. By Daniel Duane Absolute musts (Pick 2) Gamble more than you can afford. Go winter camping. Drive from Monaco to Nice, in a convertible. Raft the Grand Canyon. Touch an elephant. Try the blowfish. Sleep in a tropical rain forest First off, you won't. Most jungle animals are nocturnal, so just as you're climbing into your hammock, 10,000 creatures will start shrieking and thrashing around, fighting and fleeing, splashing in the river, shaking and occasionally felling trees, and tossing papayas around as if it's the Olympic discus finals. An awful lot of monkey sex will commence. The deeper the sun sets, the louder it'll all get, until the idea of a peaceful night in the woods becomes an entirely North American memory.Before it gets dark and by dark I mean you won't be able to see your own chest everything you know about camping will have proved useless in the jungle. You won't have pitched a tent, for example. The ground will spring invitingly from the six inches of leaves atop it, but every square meter will be a dense metropolis of creeping, slithering, fangy creatures. The only defense against them will be distance. A $400 tent might keep out bugs, but a $10 hammock does the job even better, because bugs don't generally carry ladders. The flying insects can see in the dark, however, so you will put some fabric between you and them to avoid waking up with welts the size of boiled eggs or a touch of the dengue. You will pull the fabric over your face and lie back. For the next eight hours you'll be suspended four feet off the ground, surrounded by the roar of the world at its most untethered. "Vegetation rioted the earth" in the rain forest, wrote Joseph Conrad, and you'll be at the center of the riot. Animals will sprint under you and leap over you. You'll hear a rescue helicopter, turn on the flashlight you cleverly tied to a laundry line run over the hammock, and the light will reveal a hummingbird the size of a jackrabbit.Around 3 am a previously unheard and especially worrisome noise will remind you of the danger from pythons and tigers, and you will dart upright and look around. You'll fish your folding knife out of your bag and put it, ridiculously, in your pocket. You'll know dawn is coming not by the light (the sun can't make it through the canopy until midday) but because the noise starts to die down. All you will soon hear are the leaves falling from the trees, which sounds like soft rain. Then it will start to actually rain. But you won't feel it as you climb out of the hammock, because the leaves on the trees at your level are larger than most umbrellas.When you are having breakfast it's safe to eat now; the tigers are sleeping you'll feel as you did after your first time scuba diving a coral reef. For a night you were amid a world that exists parallel to our own but scarcely connected to it. The temperate forest will never mean the same thing. Waking up indoors won't mean the same thing. Nothing will. Spending a night in the rain forest will be the most exhilarating night of your life. Drive a Ferrari ... in Italy Somewhere near Maranello, Italy, the hulking engine of my Ferrari 430 Scuderia thunders in protest as I downshift into a blind corner. I'm trying to return the car to Ferrari headquarters, but I can't find my way. But then, who the hell cares? It could be worse than to be lost on the fertile, Po River floodplains, driving a quarter-million-dollar car. Farms and orchards speckle the surrounding valleys; undulating roads snake through postcard villages; espresso is brewed; grapes are stomped; and pasta is hand-rolled. In short, the serenity is absolutely destroyed by the open-throated war cry of the 503 hp V8.All day I've been burying the vehicle's brushed-aluminum accelerator, pounding its carbon-fiber shift paddles, and yanking its steering wheel in an effort to unstick the 430 Scuderia's 19-inch wheels. But just as it has for the entire spine-torquing day, my car exits the corner with a slight shimmy of its gorgeous rear and shellacs me into the racing seat as it launches onward. Problem is, there's an oncoming semi. The cab of the wide-turning truck is in my lane. Now will be the truest test yet of Ferrari's new traction control system. I veer right, onto wet dirt and grass. The sound of gravel-on-fascia induces a cringe, but the car handles as if I'd never left the road.Still, I come to a halt both to calm my nerves and to not obliterate the two gaping old men by the side of the road. Sensing they expect some kind of acknowledgment that I have nearly killed them, I cut the engine, roll down the window, and mutter, "Maranello?" For a moment they stare in silence, two puckered faces under shabby trilbies. And then, like the sun emerging from behind a cloud, they flash sparsely toothed grins. For five minutes they point and gesture and laugh, but I am able to distinguish only two words: "bella macchina." It doesn't get me home, but it's all that needs to be said. Absolute musts (2) (Pick 2) See the sunset from Key West. Hike the Appalachian Trail, or at least some of it. Learn a language. Go vegetarian for a month. Try yoga for a week. Machu Picchu, Great Wall, Pyramids. Record your own record Two decades into my musical odyssey, it was clear that Warner Bros. wasn't going to sign a chubby, middle-aged Baltimore folk-rocker. But these days, studios in the $80-an-hour range with the technological tools that produced Abbey Road and Daydream Nation are available to anyone with a few grand, several free weekends, and a dream.I had nailed down the arrangements beforehand, so the songs took place before my very ears as I first recorded drums, hearing the song in my head and listening to a click track, then bass lines to follow the drums, then guitars, and finally vocals. The process took a couple of years, but a re-fi or two later I had a professional, radio-ready set of songs for around $7,500.I could have spent it on a luxury vacation with my son, or a new deck. But I'd made the record I always wanted to make, and practically by myself! With online outlets and digital download options aplenty, it's available to anyone in the world. After all these years I finally understand the classic lyric, "They can't take that away from me." Climb an active volcano I've been someplace no one can ever go. In 1997 I summited Ecuador's Tungurahua, an Andean peak not as storied as nearby Chimborazo or as monstrous as Argentina's Aconcagua. Unlike its more famous cordillera cousins, though, Tungurahua is a currently active volcano.Making my way through the craggy, sulfurous plateau skirting the crater, I could smell, taste, and even hear it. This mountain was alive or maybe it was that it wanted me dead. The unease I felt dogged me until I was safely home.Tungurahua belched to life two years later, forcing a months-long evacuation. The fireworks began again in 2006 (and again in 2014), when the volcano coughed up molten rock fragments that destroyed several villages. The glacier I stood upon a decade ago, ice ax raised aloft in a goofy tableau, has been melted by the heat of the inner earth. There's an eerie, delicious pleasure in knowing I have looked down from a vantage point that no human in this geologic era will again experience. Absolute musts (3) (Pick 2) Heli-ski Valdez. Climb from Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Meadows. Hug a tree. Rescue a dog. Forgive your parents. Make front-page news. Make your child's life list your own When he was 10 my son started saving for the World Cup in Germany the following year. His professed ambition was an encounter with Ronaldinho, who by almost universal consensus is the most creative soccer player on the planet. Henry spent the months prior studying Portuguese.Somehow Henry's life list became mine. I say somehow, but really, who doesn't want to go to bat for someone who practices samba steps in preparation for a goal-scoring celebration with Ronaldinho? After some budgetary reprioritization, Henry flew alone to Frankfurt, where I met him on the way back from a business trip in Israel. In 12 hours' travel he'd had the time to chart out the logistics of intra-German train routes as they concerned the whereabouts of the Brazilian team.We never did meet Ronaldinho in fact, we couldn't even score any tickets but it didn't seem to matter. All Henry really wanted was to be in the mix, with Brazilians and all those who loved the Brazilians nearby. He played a rousing two-on-two with a few Italian kids on a cobblestone plaza in Bad Homburg. They couldn't speak each other's language, but they were "speaking" Brazilian. During the semis he teased away a cafe cook and a Turkish convenience store owner for juggling exhibitions. "He's an American, really?" said the Turk incredulously.In those moments the craziness of indulging my son's Brazilian obsession really didn't seem crazy at all. Passion makes things happen, and the passion of an 11-year-old makes extraordinary things happen. I wanted Henry to know that, and I wanted to also. Anything is possible anytime, anywhere. Which is to say, the quadrennial date on the calendar is already circled: June 11, 2010, in South Africa. Who knows? This time we might even get tickets to a game.By Todd Balf Absolute musts (4) (Pick 2) See the night sky in the southern hemisphere. Learn to sail. Go 12 days without checking messages. Volunteer. Savor a 1947 Pauillac. Savor a 2000 Pauillac. Absolute musts (5) (Pick 2) Teach a kid to ski, ride, or swim. Learn to cook a meal other than breakfast. Scuba dive. Crash a black-tie party. London, Paris, Rome, Barcelona. | 4 | 1,095 | lifestyle |
These ziplines are the world's most scenic, fastest, and intriguing. Ready? Clip in. Serious hang time You don't have to Earth, BASEjump, and skydive to get serious hang time. These zip lines plummet thousands of feet, run past massive waterfalls, and cut through tropical canopies. It's as safe as it is fun and ziplining offers an exciting way to get a different perspective on a new destination. But not all wire routes are created equal. These are the world's most scenic, fastest, and intriguing. Clip in. Flight of the Gibbon, Thailand Flight of the Gibbon has two Thailand locations and a course at Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The most impressive of the bunch is in Chiang Mai, where travelers have a very good chance to see wild gibbons while zipping through the rainforest. The ecosystem is surprisingly healthy given its proximity to a major tourism center and the over two miles worth of lines leads deep into the shadows between 33 different platforms. Whistler Ziptrek Ecotours, Canada For a unique taste of Canada, ride the ziplines in the foothills beneath Whistler with Ziptrek Ecotours. The Bear Tour, a three-hour adventure, runs between five ziplines and over four treetop bridges. The zipline extends over Fitzsimmons Creek and offers views of the vast valley. Sabang X Zipline, Philippines The one-and-a-half-minute ride on the longest zipline in the Philippines starts 150 feet above sea level and ends on a sandy beach. The view of the South China Sea as you zip over it is hard to beat, but travelers are going so fast that they tend to be focused on looking straight ahead. Grab a cocktail on the other end. Tsitsikamma Zipline, South Africa Travelers repeatedly cross South Africa's scenic Kruis River gorge on the Tsitsikamma Zipline, which runs through a nature reserve, features eight ziplines, and passes close to several waterfalls. And you'll actually have time to appreciate the sights, since you can adjust your speed on these well-engineered lines. Go fast, but also remember to go slow. The views are worth lingering over. Zip Adventures Vail, Colorado Opened in 2005, Zip Adventures is a great way to get a different perspective on Colorado. During the two-hour guided tour, travelers ride six ziplines over the Alkali Creek Canyon. There are waterfalls, valleys, and dramatic rock slides. It feels like skiing in perfect powder (but in summer). Haleakala Skyline Tour, Maui The first zipline tour in the United States, the Haleakala Skyline Tour runs through towering eucalyptus trees. The two-hour trip through the canopy takes travelers over five ziplines and across one swinging bridge. Though it's great on a sunny day, consider making the trip when the fog rolls in and hangs on the volcanic slopes. It makes the experience moodier and quiet. Monteverde Sky Trek, Costa Rica Zip on 1.7 miles of cables in the cloud forest canopy of Monteverde, one of Costa Rica's wildest wildlife refuges with Sky Trek. In a country tangled with zip lines, this one stands out because of it offers the best chance of seeing animals, including howler monkeys and sloths. ZipRider at Icy Strait Point, Alaska The world's longest zipline ride runs some 5,495 feet, but only takes 90 seconds to complete. What makes the ZipRider experience at Icy Strait Point memorable isn't the view though Port Frederick looks great from above but the feeling of cold air coming at you at 65 miles per hour. The reason the trip is so quick is that it's extremely vertical. The top towers 1,320 feet above the base. | 2 | 1,096 | travel |
Many breeds were developed to do work that required them to act independently. Those dogs tend to be smart, but as family pets, they may need more leadership and training than others. Ultimately, though, they're worth it. Here are 11 dog breeds that tend to have independent personalities. Akita The bold and powerful Akita isn't known for barking, but he is still an excellent watchdog. Many Akitas are protective of their families, especially children, and they require lots of socialization to help them distinguish between what is a threat and what is normal. Chinese Shar-Pei The Chinese Shar-Pei's wrinkly face may make you want to give him a squeeze, but that's probably not what he wants. The strong-willed guard dogs are highly territorial and can be distrustful of strangers, making them a poor choice for first-time dog owners who haven't had experience in firm, steadfast training. Jack Russell Terrier If you look up the word "tenacious" in the dictionary, you may see a picture of the Jack Russell Terrier. Bred to eradicate pesky vermin from farms, the breed has an impressive drive to work and dig. She can be difficult to live with if you're not able to channel that energy and single-mindedness into dog sports that she enjoys, like earthdog trials, agility or terrier races. Chihuahua Don't let the Chihuahua's teeny frame fool you. If the little dogs have a reputation for being spoiled and untrainable, it's probably because their owners have let them get away with things that wouldn't be tolerated in larger dogs. The good news is that Chihuahuas are intelligent, and many respond well to consistent rules and structure if you're smart enough to give that to them. Miniature Pinscher There's a good reason people call the the Miniature Pinscher King of the Toys. This willful canine enjoys hobbies such as digging, barking and chasing anything that moves and he doesn't particularly care if you don't share his interests. With the Min Pin, it's important not to let him get away with bad behaviors or they could become habits that are almost impossible to break. Polish Lowland Sheepdog The Polish Lowland Sheepdog has worked as a herding and flock-guarding dog since the 15th century, and like many of her dog herding cousins, she needs activities to keep her physically and mentally occupied. She sometimes has a possessive temperament and is prone to stealing and stashing household items that you'll probably spend hours searching for. Tibetan Mastiff As a breed that's guarded people for more than 2,000 years, the Tibetan Mastiff can come across as strong-willed and overprotective. His protective nature combined with his independent mindset mean his attitude is "my way or the highway" especially if he thinks it's for your safety. Early and frequent training helps this breed be better-behaved and less wary of strangers. Collie Collies are eager to please and love people, but they can be a bit stubborn. As a herding breed, they learned to make decisions without human input. They also are known for trying to herd humans by nipping at their heels. It's up to you to train and socialize your Collie so his independence works for you not against you. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever The personality of a Toller is said to be somewhere between a Golden Retriever's and a terrier's meaning that the breed is smart, outgoing and easy to train, but he likes to do things his own way. Keep him in check by establishing firm rules and challenging him mentally. Beagle If there's one thing you need to know about Beagles, it's this: They are ruled by their noses. The breed's powerful sense of smell can lead them to escape from the yard or break into the dog food bag. Another thing you should know: They have selective hearing. Beagles are skilled at ignoring commands and wandering off. They are highly motivated by food. So if you want your Beagle to listen to you (and not his nose), command his attention with treats. Lhasa Apso Lhasa Apsos are smart dogs, but they can be manipulative, mischievous and stubborn. They were bred by Tibetan monks to protect people, not to please them. The keys to training the breed are consistency, firmness and short, fun training sessions. | 4 | 1,097 | lifestyle |
It's Independence Day and we're celebrating our freedom and everything American. Before you light up the grill or head out to catch the fireworks, take a moment to check out these fun photos of patriotic pups. We hope you have a wonderful holiday and, as always, remember to keep your pets safe. Patriotic partners Here's Lux the 2-year-old Rottweiler and Barron the 3-year-old Lab show off their matching star-spangled bows. They are proud (and make us proud) to be Americans. Follow us on Pinterest. Flag of freedom Sydney the Australian Shepherd holds an American flag she found on a camping trip. Her patriotism makes us want to sing "The Stars and Stripes Forever." Follow us on Pinterest. Star-spangled bow tie Boss knows what it takes to look his best on the Fourth: an all-American, star-spangled bow tie. The Redbone Coonhound-Labrador Retriever mix decides to dress things up. Follow us on Pinterest. Patriotic pup Who needs fireworks when you can just look at Porter's dazzling attire? We can't think of any dog who's more patriotic than this Lab-Rhodesian Ridgeback mix. Follow us on Pinterest. USA love Maggie May is excited about entering her local Fourth of July "Mutt Strut." We hope she wins! This precious terrier mix really loves the USA. Follow us on Pinterest. Festive flair Saying cheese for the camera is easy for Fritzy the Boxer. He is all smiles as he shows off his American flag bandana. Follow us on Pinterest. | 4 | 1,098 | lifestyle |
Jaguar previously announced that it would build the six final lightweight "Special GT E-Type" models , and now the automaker has released more details concerning the special Lightweight E-Type continuation cars. The final six models of the planned 18-car production run will be built by Jaguar Heritage group of the Jaguar Land Rover's new Special Operations division. Like the original Lightweight E-Type coupes, the continuation cars will feature an aluminum body shell that reduces weight by 205 pounds over the standard steel body . Despite the advances in aluminum construction, such as high-strength aluminum alloys and bonded structures, the continuation cars will feature period correct construction used on the original mid-1960s Special GT E-Type models. Jaguar will, however, use "advanced scanning technology" to digitally map the inner and outer surfaces of the original chassis number 12 Lightweight E-Type body shell to accurately reproduce the new bodies for the continuation cars. The process allows engineers to optimize each of the 230 body components for symmetry before sending the data to tooling. Using the original aluminum construction, the continuation cars conform to the FIA's homologation requirements for historic racing, according to the automaker. The cars also feature a standard roll cage. Like the original Lightweight E-Type vehicles, the new models will use an aluminum block version of the automaker's classic 3.8-liter inline-six engine with DOHC head and dry sump lubrication system. The aluminum block with steel liners further reduced weight over the front wheels. With a compression of 10:1, the intake manifold is topped by three Weber 45 DCOE carburetors. Like the original cars, a mechanical fuel injection system is available. Steel is used for the exhaust manifold that sends exhaust through dual pipes with a center-mounted rear muffler with dual tips. The engine is rated at 340 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The electrical system is based on a 12-volt negative ground system. A modern inertia-type starter motor has been fitted. The radiator, oil cooler, and coolant expansion tank are also constructed from aluminum. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a low inertia flywheel, single-plate clutch, and close-ratio four-speed synchronized manual transmission. A Powr-Lok limited-slip differential with a 3.31:1 rear axle ratio puts power to the ground. The chassis consists of a double wishbone suspension up front and an independent wide-based wishbone suspension out back. Torsion bars and shocks are used up front, while coil springs and shocks are used in back. Up front, larger 12.25-inch discs are used, while standard E-Type rear brakes are used. The continuation cars ride on "perforated" style 15-inch magnesium alloy wheels wrapped in Dunlop racing tires. A standard E-Type rack and pinion steering system is topped by a wood-rim steering wheel. Once the major components are assembled, buyers will be able to specify each cars final specification. A prototype dubbed "Car Zero" was used to test fit the components. That model isn't part of the six final Lightweight E-Type models and won't receive a VIN. Connolly leather made to the same specs as the original cars is used on the competitor style aluminum seats and center console. Owners can choose from seven trim colors. Base interiors will focus on lightweight and minimal trim, though owners can specify door panels, headliner, leather floor mats, and a transmission tunnel cover. Available exterior colors include Carmine Red, Opalescent Grey Metallic, Silver Metallic, Opalescent Blue Metallic, British Racing Green, and Old English White. Other colors and trims can also be requested. The Lightweight E-Type cars will also come with a bespoke "E-Type" watch from the Bremont Watch Company. Source: Jaguar | 9 | 1,099 | autos |
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