Uber Rolls Out ‘Uber Comfort’ Feature Allowing Passengers To Request Extra Amenities Before Riding
According to the Verge, Uber Comfort is now available in select markets in North America. The service allows passengers to request extra legroom, quiet cars, and other amenities that are typically only offered for Uber Black car riders.
Uber Comfort is available as an additional option to Uber X, Uber Pool, Uber Black, and Uber XL. For just a few dollars more, riders can now determine exactly how they want to ride.
The service features requests for newer cars, more legroom, and the ability to set the temperature in a vehicle before pickup. Uber Comfort customers will also have the ability to use the ‘quiet mode feature’. In Uber’s initial quiet mode announcement, it is clear the feature is only available for Uber Black riders.
Uber is setting a standard for drivers as well! Drivers who want to accept Uber Comfort ride requests will reportedly be subject to meet many requirements. Drivers will have to maintain a 4.85-star average rating and a car that is a maximum of five years old.
Uber is catching a lot of heat lately between going public and experiencing an increase in passenger deaths due to negligent drivers. In the past month, more than four passenger deaths have been reported. Unfortunately, all of the deaths are women, whose drivers took them to different destinations.
Despite the hardships, Uber is trying to get the attention of its riders. The company wants to show the service is safe, efficient, and comfortable.
iPhone 7 could support Apple Pencil [Poll]
As Gruber observes, it’s clear that Cook misspoke one way or the other, but it does raise the possibility at least that he knew Apple Pencil support was on the way for a future iPhone.
Even with the 5.5-inch screen of the iPhone 7 Plus, it’s not likely too many people would want to use an iPhone as a sketchpad, but the Pencil could well have an application for handwritten notes, as well as a means of highlighting text.
Could you see a use for an Apple Pencil with an iPhone? Take our poll and let us know your reasons in the comments.
Even with the 5.5-inch screen of the iPhone 7 Plus, it’s not likely too many people would want to use an iPhone as a sketchpad, but the Pencil could well have an application for handwritten notes, as well as a means of highlighting text.
Could you see a use for an Apple Pencil with an iPhone? Take our poll and let us know your reasons in the comments.
The Oldest Millennials Just Turned 35: How Gen Y Is Growing Up, Getting Wise And Beating The Odds
Despite a mediocre economy, catastrophic education costs and constant ridicule, most 20-somethings are certain that things will get better. If the state of their older cohort is any indication, they may be right.
What follows is evidence for optimism:
1. Older millennials are employed.
Millennials as a whole have a higher unemployment rate than any other generation; around 12% depending on the survey. But this figure is misleading for several reasons.
First, as mentioned, the youngest millennials are 10 years old and not eligible for full-time work. Secondly, even if we only include adults ages 18 and up, 40% of 18-24 year olds are in college. Articles citing massive millennial unemployment rates sidestep this statistic. Finally, while unemployment may be high for recent college grads, multiple studies show that the unemployment rate for older millennials is the same as the rest of the nation’s. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, just 5% of 25-34 year olds are unemployed. Meanwhile, the median salary for Americans between 28 and 36 is $48,000, and 14% earn over $100,000. And our income is improving: Pew reports that weekly earnings for millennials ages 18-34 have increased since 2012.
2. They’re managing their debt.
Older millennials are paying back student loans and other debt surprisingly quickly. Though millennials as a group are 2.4 times more likely than average to have outstanding student loans, older millennials are only 1.8 times more likely. According to Pew, Americans under 35 are paying off their student debt faster than any other generation.
In fact, adults under 35 cut their overall levels of debt by 29% from 2007 to 2010 (from $21,912 to $15,473), while older Americans reduced theirs by only 8% ($32,543 to $30,070). And, despite rising costs of education, Pew reports that the “share of younger households with debt of any kind fell to 78%, the lowest level since the federal government started collecting that data in 1983.”
Though (or perhaps because) millennials are saddled with an average of $30,000 in student debt, they have less other kinds of debt. The Wall Street Journal reports that millennials of all ages have fewer credit cards and carry an average credit card balance of $2,700—40% less than the national average. And, according to Pew, just 39% of households under 35 carried any credit card balance, compared to 50% in 2001.
3. They’re saving earlier and more.
A Wells Fargo WFC +2.64% survey revealed that eight in 10 millennials said “the recession convinced them they must save more now.” As a result, more than half regularly put away, according to TIME. Older Millennials have more saved in their 401(k) than any other generation. The U.S. Chamber Foundation found that millennials started saving for retirement an average of 13 years earlier than Baby Boomers. And, even though they’re further away from retirement, millennials continue to save more than Generation X.
4. They’re spending smarter.
Older millennials tend to spend their money on appreciable assets—like the stock market and real estate—not depreciating liabilities—like cars. In fact, only a third of millennials own a car. As consequence, only a third of under 35 year olds owed money on a car in 2011, compared with 44% in 2007.
Instead, 60% of 30-33 year olds reported owning or planning to purchase a home in the next year. For those who can’t yet afford one, it’s top on their to-do list. Twenty percent of adult millennials named owning a home as one of their most important priorities in life, directly behind being a good parent and having a successful marriage.
Finally, while only 27% of younger millennials invest in stocks, nearly half of older millennials do. Older millennials are also 32% more likely than the rest of the nation to engage in online trading.
5. They are smarter.
Forty percent of today’s 30 year olds went to college, according to Pew Social Trends. Millennials as a whole have the highest high school completion rate in over two decades, with 72% graduating and 68% going on to college.
-Caroline Beaton U30 Contributor for Forbes Magazine
What follows is evidence for optimism:
1. Older millennials are employed.
Millennials as a whole have a higher unemployment rate than any other generation; around 12% depending on the survey. But this figure is misleading for several reasons.
First, as mentioned, the youngest millennials are 10 years old and not eligible for full-time work. Secondly, even if we only include adults ages 18 and up, 40% of 18-24 year olds are in college. Articles citing massive millennial unemployment rates sidestep this statistic. Finally, while unemployment may be high for recent college grads, multiple studies show that the unemployment rate for older millennials is the same as the rest of the nation’s. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, just 5% of 25-34 year olds are unemployed. Meanwhile, the median salary for Americans between 28 and 36 is $48,000, and 14% earn over $100,000. And our income is improving: Pew reports that weekly earnings for millennials ages 18-34 have increased since 2012.
2. They’re managing their debt.
Older millennials are paying back student loans and other debt surprisingly quickly. Though millennials as a group are 2.4 times more likely than average to have outstanding student loans, older millennials are only 1.8 times more likely. According to Pew, Americans under 35 are paying off their student debt faster than any other generation.
In fact, adults under 35 cut their overall levels of debt by 29% from 2007 to 2010 (from $21,912 to $15,473), while older Americans reduced theirs by only 8% ($32,543 to $30,070). And, despite rising costs of education, Pew reports that the “share of younger households with debt of any kind fell to 78%, the lowest level since the federal government started collecting that data in 1983.”
Though (or perhaps because) millennials are saddled with an average of $30,000 in student debt, they have less other kinds of debt. The Wall Street Journal reports that millennials of all ages have fewer credit cards and carry an average credit card balance of $2,700—40% less than the national average. And, according to Pew, just 39% of households under 35 carried any credit card balance, compared to 50% in 2001.
3. They’re saving earlier and more.
A Wells Fargo WFC +2.64% survey revealed that eight in 10 millennials said “the recession convinced them they must save more now.” As a result, more than half regularly put away, according to TIME. Older Millennials have more saved in their 401(k) than any other generation. The U.S. Chamber Foundation found that millennials started saving for retirement an average of 13 years earlier than Baby Boomers. And, even though they’re further away from retirement, millennials continue to save more than Generation X.
4. They’re spending smarter.
Older millennials tend to spend their money on appreciable assets—like the stock market and real estate—not depreciating liabilities—like cars. In fact, only a third of millennials own a car. As consequence, only a third of under 35 year olds owed money on a car in 2011, compared with 44% in 2007.
Instead, 60% of 30-33 year olds reported owning or planning to purchase a home in the next year. For those who can’t yet afford one, it’s top on their to-do list. Twenty percent of adult millennials named owning a home as one of their most important priorities in life, directly behind being a good parent and having a successful marriage.
Finally, while only 27% of younger millennials invest in stocks, nearly half of older millennials do. Older millennials are also 32% more likely than the rest of the nation to engage in online trading.
5. They are smarter.
Forty percent of today’s 30 year olds went to college, according to Pew Social Trends. Millennials as a whole have the highest high school completion rate in over two decades, with 72% graduating and 68% going on to college.
-Caroline Beaton U30 Contributor for Forbes Magazine
LGBT couples Re-Create Iconic Movie Posters And The Results Were Awesome
A 27-year-old designer came up with a way to revolutionize how we recycle.
Have a Strong Orgasm
By Sleeping With This Type of Man... Hmm
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According to a study recently published in the journal Evolutionary Psychology, the frequency of orgasms is related to intensity, and that intensity is stronger when women are with a partner they find funny, self-confident and from a family of high earners. (That last one’s a little out of left field, amirite? The study doesn’t expand on the financial aspect, but we’re guessing a more financially secure dude is also more confident in himself. C’mon. Anyone else out there dated a finance bro?) But talk about the ultimate score for the funny guys!
Psychologists at the University at Albany polled heterosexual female college students in relationships about how often they experienced orgasms during sex and discovered that orgasm intensity is related to how attracted a women is to their partners, how many times they had sex per week, and ratings of sexual satisfaction. FYI: orgasm intensity is a “marginally better predictor of sexual satisfaction than orgasm frequency,” according to lead study author Professor Georgy Gallup. The researchers also asked the women’s friends to rate the attractiveness of the participants’ partners to get a less biased score — the participants with partners that their friends rated as moreattractive tended to have more intense orgasms, because, of course. “A woman’s partner’s sense of humour not only predicted his self-confidence and family income, but it also predicted women’s propensity to initiate sex, how often they had sex, and it enhanced their orgasm frequency in comparison with other partners,” wrote the researchers. So, guess size really doesn’t matter—right ladies? -By Ashley Mateo SELF Magazine |
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12 Reasons Why Being Single Is Actually Amazing
1. You can kiss anyone you want -. Being single means you can flirt with and kiss anyone—like that hot person you just met at happy hour—anytime you want. That’s pretty exciting!
2. You don’t have to compromise -. Relationships are hard work. When you’re single, you don’t have to deal with anyone but you. There is no fighting, no hurt feelings, life is (mostly) drama-free, and you love it.
3. You can spend money the way you want to. It’s not an issue if you buy that pair of ridiculously expensive shoes, donate gobs of money to your favorite charity, treat yourself to a decadent spa weekend, or even save up for your dream home. No one tells you how to spend your dough.
4. Your friends are your family .When you’re single, you have time to develop deep friendships, the kind where you really depend on one another. You can choose who your close friends are and spend as much time with them as you want.
5. You get the whole closet to yourself. Forget about cramming your clothes into one corner of the closet. Stretch out and take all the space you need, because the entire thing is yours to use.
6. You can travel wherever and whenever you want. You can hop on a flight to visit your college roommate for the weekend or book a hiking trip to the Canadian Rockies. Cross places off of your travel bucket list, because you don’t have to consider what anyone else wants in the matter. It’s all about you. Bon voyage!
7. You get to pick the radio station and the TV channel.There’s no arguing over which music to listen to in the car or which TV show to watch. It’s your road trip, and you have clicker control. You’re in charge.
8. You can pass gas whenever you want to .Come on, everybody does it. You don’t have to hold them in anymore—fart away.
9. You get to decorate to your taste. No more fighting about where to put the black leather couch they’ve had since college. Hang a crystal chandelier from the bathroom ceiling and paint your bedroom hot pink. It’s going to look great!
10. You learn to enjoy being alone For many people being alone means being lonely, but it doesn’t have to for you. After you spend enough time flying solo, you start to appreciate your own good company. You enjoy time with friends, but also look forward to being alone because you actually like solitude.
11. You have time to devote to your passions.Join an evening tennis league, sign up for a painting class at the local art school, or join a triathlon training group. Whatever floats your boat, you get to do it.
Most importantly ...
12. You can get your priorities straight before you enter a relationship. Being single gives you a unique opportunity to discover who you are on the deepest level. You can create a life that is uniquely your own based on your priorities, then look for someone to share it with. There’s no better time to find a relationship than when your life is already awesome!
4 Online Dating Photo Secrets From the Most-Messaged Woman on OkCupid
Lauren Urasek was just minding her own business when New York Magazine contacted her one day last year and told her that, according to some serious math, she was the most-messaged girl in New York City on OkCupid.
That's when her life kind of blew up — strangers would bombard Urasek with questions about her crazy dating stories. She had enough tales of meeting pervy and bizarro men that she just wrote a book about it called, Popular.
But Urasek, a makeup artist by day, also gets a ton of questions about how she looks as good as she does in her online dating pics. Here are a few of her tips in slide show below:
1. Post a Realistic Yet Flattering Full-Body Photo
2. Make 1 Picture a Conversation Starter
3. Step Up Your Selfie Game
4. Make your mirror pictures count
Body Shot - This shot was taken at a networking event. A girl asked me to take a snap of her, and then offered to return the favor. (Note: If you're shy about asking people to take pics, this is a great way to get one without having to be the first one to ask). I like to pose with my stomach in, chest up, butt out, and arm not directly pressed against me.
The lighting in the room was great — it was at eye level and not overhead, which creates weird shadows. I was wearing a new dress, so I was feeling good. I vignetted the border to take the focus away from the other people sitting around me, but I didn't crop them out entirely because it helps to show that I have a life and I'm out in the world doing things (i.e., not just a full body mirror pic).
Coversation starter - A snap of doing something interesting (like this pic of me hiking at Antelope Canyon) is an instant icebreaker. People who have been there are always excited to share their experience. People who haven't ask me if this is real, where it is, if I edited the background (I only upped the contrast, but for its 99.99999 percent real). Side note: I think it's good to have at least one shot with minimal makeup on so everyone can see the real you.
Selfie Game - One day, I was at a MAC store visiting my friend and I noticed that the lighting was amazing in there. Ever since, I can't pop in to see him without taking a few pics. When I was ready to snap this, there was a girl behind me who kept getting into my shot, so I (very politely, of course) asked her to move out of my selfie zone. I used this image as my profile pic for a while because it's a pretty good representation of what I look like every day (not super glammed up).
Follow Loni on Twitter and Instagram.
Photo credits - Lauren Urasek
That's when her life kind of blew up — strangers would bombard Urasek with questions about her crazy dating stories. She had enough tales of meeting pervy and bizarro men that she just wrote a book about it called, Popular.
But Urasek, a makeup artist by day, also gets a ton of questions about how she looks as good as she does in her online dating pics. Here are a few of her tips in slide show below:
1. Post a Realistic Yet Flattering Full-Body Photo
2. Make 1 Picture a Conversation Starter
3. Step Up Your Selfie Game
4. Make your mirror pictures count
Body Shot - This shot was taken at a networking event. A girl asked me to take a snap of her, and then offered to return the favor. (Note: If you're shy about asking people to take pics, this is a great way to get one without having to be the first one to ask). I like to pose with my stomach in, chest up, butt out, and arm not directly pressed against me.
The lighting in the room was great — it was at eye level and not overhead, which creates weird shadows. I was wearing a new dress, so I was feeling good. I vignetted the border to take the focus away from the other people sitting around me, but I didn't crop them out entirely because it helps to show that I have a life and I'm out in the world doing things (i.e., not just a full body mirror pic).
Coversation starter - A snap of doing something interesting (like this pic of me hiking at Antelope Canyon) is an instant icebreaker. People who have been there are always excited to share their experience. People who haven't ask me if this is real, where it is, if I edited the background (I only upped the contrast, but for its 99.99999 percent real). Side note: I think it's good to have at least one shot with minimal makeup on so everyone can see the real you.
Selfie Game - One day, I was at a MAC store visiting my friend and I noticed that the lighting was amazing in there. Ever since, I can't pop in to see him without taking a few pics. When I was ready to snap this, there was a girl behind me who kept getting into my shot, so I (very politely, of course) asked her to move out of my selfie zone. I used this image as my profile pic for a while because it's a pretty good representation of what I look like every day (not super glammed up).
Follow Loni on Twitter and Instagram.
Photo credits - Lauren Urasek
The least religious generation = millenials. But why? Could be due to broad cultural changes?
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 27, 2015)-
In what may be the largest study ever conducted on changes in Americans' religious involvement, researchers led by San Diego State University psychology professor Jean M. Twenge found that millennials are the least religious generation of the last six decades, and possibly in the nation's history.
The researchers -
including Ramya Sastry from SDSU, Julie J. Exline and Joshua B. Grubbs from Case Western Reserve University and W. Keith Campbell from the University of Georgia -- analyzed data from 11.2 million respondents from four nationally representative surveys of U.S. adolescents ages 13 to 18 taken between 1966 and 2014.
Recent adolescents are less likely to say that religion is important in their lives, report less approval of religious organizations, and report being less spiritual and spending less time praying or meditating. The results were published this month in the journal PLOS One.
"Unlike previous studies, ours is able to show that millennials' lower religious involvement is due to cultural change, not to millennials being young and unsettled," said Twenge, who is also the author of "Generation Me."
"Millennial adolescents are less religious than Boomers and GenX'ers were at the same age," Twenge continued. "We also looked at younger ages than the previous studies. More of today's adolescents are abandoning religion before they reach adulthood, with an increasing number not raised with religion at all. "One context is rising individualism in U.S. culture. Individualism puts the self first, which doesn't always fit well with the commitment to the institution and other people that religion often requires. As Americans become more individualistic, it makes sense that fewer would commit to religion."
-SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY
In what may be the largest study ever conducted on changes in Americans' religious involvement, researchers led by San Diego State University psychology professor Jean M. Twenge found that millennials are the least religious generation of the last six decades, and possibly in the nation's history.
The researchers -
including Ramya Sastry from SDSU, Julie J. Exline and Joshua B. Grubbs from Case Western Reserve University and W. Keith Campbell from the University of Georgia -- analyzed data from 11.2 million respondents from four nationally representative surveys of U.S. adolescents ages 13 to 18 taken between 1966 and 2014.
Recent adolescents are less likely to say that religion is important in their lives, report less approval of religious organizations, and report being less spiritual and spending less time praying or meditating. The results were published this month in the journal PLOS One.
"Unlike previous studies, ours is able to show that millennials' lower religious involvement is due to cultural change, not to millennials being young and unsettled," said Twenge, who is also the author of "Generation Me."
"Millennial adolescents are less religious than Boomers and GenX'ers were at the same age," Twenge continued. "We also looked at younger ages than the previous studies. More of today's adolescents are abandoning religion before they reach adulthood, with an increasing number not raised with religion at all. "One context is rising individualism in U.S. culture. Individualism puts the self first, which doesn't always fit well with the commitment to the institution and other people that religion often requires. As Americans become more individualistic, it makes sense that fewer would commit to religion."
-SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY
18 Qualities Every Alpha Woman Should Look For In A Boyfriend
Gigi Engle Elite Daily
A strong Alpha Woman needs a man who’s her equal, her partner, her greatest supporter. By definition, you’d think that she should want an Alpha Male, but he can provide only passion, not steadiness. She also does not get along with Beta Males because they’re too weak to keep her or pique her interest.
So, who’s right for the mighty Alpha Female? What kind of man can keep her grounded while still challenging her to grow and be the best she can?
May I introduce Type Z: a man who’s equal parts solid and charismatic. He’s her rock, her foundation. He’s not intimidated by her successes nor would he allow her to walk all over him. He’s true to himself and true to her.
An Alpha Woman knows what she needs to have a sturdy partnership with a man who’ll be her ally, her confidant and her best friend.
These are qualities every Alpha Female should look for in a boyfriend:
1. He isn’t waiting on you, he has his own plans.He has his own life and respects that you have yours. He’s never going to give you a hard time about wanting to hit the club with your girls. Instead, he encourages you to spend time with them whenever you want to because he knows whom you’re coming home to.
2. He doesn’t air your dirty laundry.He has your full trust, and you can tell each other anything. You’re not afraid your embarrassing stories are going to come back to you when you meet his family or when you meet his friends for drinks. What’s said between the two of you stays between the two of you. Well, except for your BFF; she knows everything from what he’s got going on downstairs to his latest promotion at work.
3. He knows how to deal with your bad moods.He’s a source of comfort for you. You feel at ease with him. When you’re angry, he somehow knows how to deal with you with more grace than anyone else.
Depending on how you’re feeling, angsty and emotional or overwhelmed and exhausted, he lets you have your space and knows when to hold you in his arms.
4. When he apologizes, he really means it.If he’s done something wrong, he’ll always be man enough to admit it and tell you he’s sorry. He’s not arrogant or pigheaded — he won’t do something sh*tty and turn the tables on you, and he won’t hurt your feelings and make you feel stupid for being upset.
He’s a man, not a boy — and a man always knows when he needs to apologize.
5. He’s moving at the same speed you are.Whether in his current career or his lofty life goals, he always seems to be moving at the same speed you are. He knows what he wants and respects what you want. He’s never pushy or demoralizing — just steadily moving from one goal to the next with a very bright future in sight.
6. He doesn’t belittle you, but he doesn’t put you on pedestal either.He’s slow and steady, but never a doormat. He doesn’t idolize you but doesn’t make you feel small. He treats you like the fierce woman you are. He also likes to spoil you, but would never give you everything you want.
He’ll always keep you guessing. He’s your partner, not your provider. He’s there because he wants you, not because he needs you.
7. He is someone who teaches, but never lectures.The best partnerships are the ones in which both people can learn from each other. He’s a well of knowledge and loves to provide you with new information and insights on things he’s passionate about. You learn from him in many ways, but you never feel like he’s pushing you or judging you. You both teach other lessons that make you better people and better citizens of the world.
8. He makes you laugh.If you can make a woman laugh, you can make her do anything. -Marilyn Monroe
If he does not make you laugh, you’ll soon grow tired of him. Laughter is one of the most important qualities in a partner. Your shared love of sarcasm and his sharp wit complement each other perfectly.
9. He’ll call you out when you need to be called out.He’ll never fail to tell you how it is. He’s not scared to hurt your feelings, and he doesn’t tiptoe around you, either. If you’re acting like a raging b*tch or are completely talking out of your ass, you can bet your ass he’ll call you out on it.
He does not let you get away with stupid bull, not because he does no care about you, but because he does not want to be jerked around by those Alpha Female ways.
10. He wants to be the wind beneath your wings.He’s a stoic man: strong, independent and sure of himself. He prefers to let you lead, but he’s always there to fully support you. He has no problem being the background; he’s there to be your strongest supporter and your steadfast foundation. He loves that you’re popular because you’re a person he’s very proud of.
11. He isn’t the life of the party, but is always there if you need to be carried home.He lets you be the social butterfly you naturally are. He doesn’t mind your vibrancy or doesn’t feel intimidated by your fiery, dynamic personality; instead, he embraces it. He’s also a protector.
He’ll pour you another drink, but take it away when you’ve had too much. He always takes care of you.
12. His opinions are not irrational, they’re backed up.He reads a whole lot of books and stays informed on current events so he can have well-rounded opinions with factual bases. Being educated and sound in his understanding of the world around him is very important to him.
13. He knows when to drop it and when to address it.He’ll stand his ground when he knows he is right. Though he’ll argue with you, he’s not unwilling to concede if it means ending a fight. You’re strong-willed, and he knows when a difference in opinion or a questionable action is worth discussing or whether it’s better left alone.
14. He has dreams as big as yours.He’s as career-focused as you are. You both genuinely care about each other’s endeavors. He doesn’t sit back and watch you achieve your dreams because he has passions and goals of his own. You two are a true power couple.
15. He’s a great listener, but also expects to be heard.He knows when to talk and he knows when to keep his mouth shut. He quietly and patiently listens to everything you have to say, but he expects you to do the same for him.
So, who’s right for the mighty Alpha Female? What kind of man can keep her grounded while still challenging her to grow and be the best she can?
May I introduce Type Z: a man who’s equal parts solid and charismatic. He’s her rock, her foundation. He’s not intimidated by her successes nor would he allow her to walk all over him. He’s true to himself and true to her.
An Alpha Woman knows what she needs to have a sturdy partnership with a man who’ll be her ally, her confidant and her best friend.
These are qualities every Alpha Female should look for in a boyfriend:
1. He isn’t waiting on you, he has his own plans.He has his own life and respects that you have yours. He’s never going to give you a hard time about wanting to hit the club with your girls. Instead, he encourages you to spend time with them whenever you want to because he knows whom you’re coming home to.
2. He doesn’t air your dirty laundry.He has your full trust, and you can tell each other anything. You’re not afraid your embarrassing stories are going to come back to you when you meet his family or when you meet his friends for drinks. What’s said between the two of you stays between the two of you. Well, except for your BFF; she knows everything from what he’s got going on downstairs to his latest promotion at work.
3. He knows how to deal with your bad moods.He’s a source of comfort for you. You feel at ease with him. When you’re angry, he somehow knows how to deal with you with more grace than anyone else.
Depending on how you’re feeling, angsty and emotional or overwhelmed and exhausted, he lets you have your space and knows when to hold you in his arms.
4. When he apologizes, he really means it.If he’s done something wrong, he’ll always be man enough to admit it and tell you he’s sorry. He’s not arrogant or pigheaded — he won’t do something sh*tty and turn the tables on you, and he won’t hurt your feelings and make you feel stupid for being upset.
He’s a man, not a boy — and a man always knows when he needs to apologize.
5. He’s moving at the same speed you are.Whether in his current career or his lofty life goals, he always seems to be moving at the same speed you are. He knows what he wants and respects what you want. He’s never pushy or demoralizing — just steadily moving from one goal to the next with a very bright future in sight.
6. He doesn’t belittle you, but he doesn’t put you on pedestal either.He’s slow and steady, but never a doormat. He doesn’t idolize you but doesn’t make you feel small. He treats you like the fierce woman you are. He also likes to spoil you, but would never give you everything you want.
He’ll always keep you guessing. He’s your partner, not your provider. He’s there because he wants you, not because he needs you.
7. He is someone who teaches, but never lectures.The best partnerships are the ones in which both people can learn from each other. He’s a well of knowledge and loves to provide you with new information and insights on things he’s passionate about. You learn from him in many ways, but you never feel like he’s pushing you or judging you. You both teach other lessons that make you better people and better citizens of the world.
8. He makes you laugh.If you can make a woman laugh, you can make her do anything. -Marilyn Monroe
If he does not make you laugh, you’ll soon grow tired of him. Laughter is one of the most important qualities in a partner. Your shared love of sarcasm and his sharp wit complement each other perfectly.
9. He’ll call you out when you need to be called out.He’ll never fail to tell you how it is. He’s not scared to hurt your feelings, and he doesn’t tiptoe around you, either. If you’re acting like a raging b*tch or are completely talking out of your ass, you can bet your ass he’ll call you out on it.
He does not let you get away with stupid bull, not because he does no care about you, but because he does not want to be jerked around by those Alpha Female ways.
10. He wants to be the wind beneath your wings.He’s a stoic man: strong, independent and sure of himself. He prefers to let you lead, but he’s always there to fully support you. He has no problem being the background; he’s there to be your strongest supporter and your steadfast foundation. He loves that you’re popular because you’re a person he’s very proud of.
11. He isn’t the life of the party, but is always there if you need to be carried home.He lets you be the social butterfly you naturally are. He doesn’t mind your vibrancy or doesn’t feel intimidated by your fiery, dynamic personality; instead, he embraces it. He’s also a protector.
He’ll pour you another drink, but take it away when you’ve had too much. He always takes care of you.
12. His opinions are not irrational, they’re backed up.He reads a whole lot of books and stays informed on current events so he can have well-rounded opinions with factual bases. Being educated and sound in his understanding of the world around him is very important to him.
13. He knows when to drop it and when to address it.He’ll stand his ground when he knows he is right. Though he’ll argue with you, he’s not unwilling to concede if it means ending a fight. You’re strong-willed, and he knows when a difference in opinion or a questionable action is worth discussing or whether it’s better left alone.
14. He has dreams as big as yours.He’s as career-focused as you are. You both genuinely care about each other’s endeavors. He doesn’t sit back and watch you achieve your dreams because he has passions and goals of his own. You two are a true power couple.
15. He’s a great listener, but also expects to be heard.He knows when to talk and he knows when to keep his mouth shut. He quietly and patiently listens to everything you have to say, but he expects you to do the same for him.
New year, New you?
By: Eva Esi Essandoh
What will you honestly improve about your life, about yourself this year? What are your new life goals?
It is easy to get swept up in the magic, and excitement of the new year. The idea of a "Clean Slate" opens possibilities for new adventures, success, and opportunity. Naturally we start to dream, and make lists, upon lists about what the New Year will be.
But lets think about something for a second, when you made your list last year, how many of those goals did you accomplish, if any? or the year before that?
For the most part many of us make these promises to ourselves, and then let them fall by the waste side. Why do you think that is?
Many times the things we put on our list, incorporate things we 'think" we want, but it's for all the wrong reasons. It is just something we wrote on a list, or promised to ourselves "just because".
Setting goals is not something you should do because it’s a new year. Goals should be continuously created as you think of them and revised quarterly, if a major change occurs Goals do not all have to be new crazy far off ideas. Most of them should be reflections to improve habits and reinforce your ideal situation or vision of yourself and your accomplishments.
Think through the past year, and specifically the past three months. Jot down three things that you want to maintain, improve, and change. ie. Personal Life, Fitness & Health, Relationships, Personal Finance, & Work. The first three months tackle goal #1, next three months tackle goal #2, and of course the following three months you tackle goal #3. Try and start this process in February, as a suggestion, just to give you a little time to settle in after the holiday.
See if this works for you, and if it does, congrats...
See the NEW YOU in 2016!!! Don't worry time will fly...
It is easy to get swept up in the magic, and excitement of the new year. The idea of a "Clean Slate" opens possibilities for new adventures, success, and opportunity. Naturally we start to dream, and make lists, upon lists about what the New Year will be.
But lets think about something for a second, when you made your list last year, how many of those goals did you accomplish, if any? or the year before that?
For the most part many of us make these promises to ourselves, and then let them fall by the waste side. Why do you think that is?
Many times the things we put on our list, incorporate things we 'think" we want, but it's for all the wrong reasons. It is just something we wrote on a list, or promised to ourselves "just because".
Setting goals is not something you should do because it’s a new year. Goals should be continuously created as you think of them and revised quarterly, if a major change occurs Goals do not all have to be new crazy far off ideas. Most of them should be reflections to improve habits and reinforce your ideal situation or vision of yourself and your accomplishments.
Think through the past year, and specifically the past three months. Jot down three things that you want to maintain, improve, and change. ie. Personal Life, Fitness & Health, Relationships, Personal Finance, & Work. The first three months tackle goal #1, next three months tackle goal #2, and of course the following three months you tackle goal #3. Try and start this process in February, as a suggestion, just to give you a little time to settle in after the holiday.
See if this works for you, and if it does, congrats...
See the NEW YOU in 2016!!! Don't worry time will fly...
What Dating Was Like Before Cell Phones?
by Aaron Goldfarb MTV News
Asking someone out
Things got even worse when it was time to actually utilize that phone number a day or two later. You didn’t own a cellphone, so you had to make your first call to the prospective love-of-your-life’s landline. (You know, those things your grandma still uses?
This was almost certainly a line shared with (at best) some nosy roommates or (at worst) some super nosy parents and siblings. You never knew who was spying on your awkward, “Hey, remember me? Wanna’ go out?” call. (Life was so boring back then, we were starved for entertainment.)
And you whippersnappers today will NEVER have to ask, “Hello, Mrs. Johnson, may I speak to Valerie?”
Calling at the exact right time
Of course, it was purely a matter of luck whether the person you were anxiously contacting was even at home. And not eating dinner. Or indisposed in the bathroom (because, unlike Facebook messages or Twitter DMs, you didn’t answer a landline on the can).
Most times, you’d get the landline’s answering machine — which was like voicemail, but with cassette tapes, if you’ve ever heard of a cassette tape — and be completely flummoxed as to what to do next. Like in this scene from the classic film “Swingers” (NSFW language):
Meeting up in person
Once you made that connection over the phone, it was time to actually set up a date. And, oh boy, did you have to fully set something up. None of these non-plan plans nowadays like, “How ’bout we go out in the Village someplace sometime Friday night? Text me then!”
Before cellphones it had to be an exact location at an exact time. And if the other person was running late, you’d have to stay in that specific spot — unsure of when (or if) they’d arrive — possibly for hours. Because otherwise, how in the world were you going to find anybody once they were away from that one telephone wired into their kitchen wall?
Maintaining a relationship
It seems shocking in retrospect that we, as humans, could actually keep relationships going before cellphones. When you were apart and out of the house, you had no way to check in on each other. No way to know what was going on in your boyfriend’s or girlfriend’s life. No way to send “thinking of u” messages. Back then, you kind of just had to wonder and feel distant.
Things got even worse when it was time to actually utilize that phone number a day or two later. You didn’t own a cellphone, so you had to make your first call to the prospective love-of-your-life’s landline. (You know, those things your grandma still uses?
This was almost certainly a line shared with (at best) some nosy roommates or (at worst) some super nosy parents and siblings. You never knew who was spying on your awkward, “Hey, remember me? Wanna’ go out?” call. (Life was so boring back then, we were starved for entertainment.)
And you whippersnappers today will NEVER have to ask, “Hello, Mrs. Johnson, may I speak to Valerie?”
Calling at the exact right time
Of course, it was purely a matter of luck whether the person you were anxiously contacting was even at home. And not eating dinner. Or indisposed in the bathroom (because, unlike Facebook messages or Twitter DMs, you didn’t answer a landline on the can).
Most times, you’d get the landline’s answering machine — which was like voicemail, but with cassette tapes, if you’ve ever heard of a cassette tape — and be completely flummoxed as to what to do next. Like in this scene from the classic film “Swingers” (NSFW language):
Meeting up in person
Once you made that connection over the phone, it was time to actually set up a date. And, oh boy, did you have to fully set something up. None of these non-plan plans nowadays like, “How ’bout we go out in the Village someplace sometime Friday night? Text me then!”
Before cellphones it had to be an exact location at an exact time. And if the other person was running late, you’d have to stay in that specific spot — unsure of when (or if) they’d arrive — possibly for hours. Because otherwise, how in the world were you going to find anybody once they were away from that one telephone wired into their kitchen wall?
Maintaining a relationship
It seems shocking in retrospect that we, as humans, could actually keep relationships going before cellphones. When you were apart and out of the house, you had no way to check in on each other. No way to know what was going on in your boyfriend’s or girlfriend’s life. No way to send “thinking of u” messages. Back then, you kind of just had to wonder and feel distant.
My Husband's Not Gay Coming To TLC...Wait What?!
"I like to say I've chosen an alternative to an alternative lifestyle," says Tom, the sole bachelor of the group, who is actively seeking a woman to marry. As devout members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, these men believe that a heterosexual lifestyle is the only acceptable one, and therefore have married or want to marry women. Rather than try and eradicate their sexual desires, they simply ignore them. In an odd contradiction, for these men, being attracted to other men is inevitable. But, being "straight" is a choice.
"Gay" is not a phrase these men use to describe their sexual orientation — hence the show's title. Instead, in reference to their predicament, they mention "being attracted to men," or "these feelings." "I get a little defensive when somebody calls my husband 'gay,'" one woman admits. Another wife sits and smiles sympathetically at her not-gay husband as he talks about how he's definitely into guys.
My Husband's Not Gay highlights a clash between historic anti-gay doctrine in the Mormon church and mainstream society's growing understanding and acceptance of non-heteronormative lifestyles. While years ago, these men might have been shamed into silence or too terrified to admit their sexuality, now they feel free to acknowledge it somewhat (and in a very public forum at that). Being "gay" (or "attracted to men") is still forbidden if you're LDS, but these couples see it as more manageable. It's like craving a (also banned by the church) beer or cup of coffee, but not drinking one.
"I like to say I've chosen an alternative to an alternative lifestyle," says Tom, the sole bachelor of the group, who is actively seeking a woman to marry. As devout members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, these men believe that a heterosexual lifestyle is the only acceptable one, and therefore have married or want to marry women. Rather than try and eradicate their sexual desires, they simply ignore them. In an odd contradiction, for these men, being attracted to other men is inevitable. But, being "straight" is a choice.
"Gay" is not a phrase these men use to describe their sexual orientation — hence the show's title. Instead, in reference to their predicament, they mention "being attracted to men," or "these feelings." "I get a little defensive when somebody calls my husband 'gay,'" one woman admits. Another wife sits and smiles sympathetically at her not-gay husband as he talks about how he's definitely into guys.
My Husband's Not Gay highlights a clash between historic anti-gay doctrine in the Mormon church and mainstream society's growing understanding and acceptance of non-heteronormative lifestyles. While years ago, these men might have been shamed into silence or too terrified to admit their sexuality, now they feel free to acknowledge it somewhat (and in a very public forum at that). Being "gay" (or "attracted to men") is still forbidden if you're LDS, but these couples see it as more manageable. It's like craving a (also banned by the church) beer or cup of coffee, but not drinking one.
The "so where is this going "conversation.
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Tom Gormican, director of That Awkward Moment, digs into the “So… where is this going?” conversation that defines new relationships — and reminds us to really stay connected in the age of too much communication.
According ASKMEN.com the So… are you dating other people? Social network activity says the probability is high, due to a number of factors: most importantly, your pictures with these three people I don’t know, your check-ins at places like the movies and a couple restaurants I don’t frequent, plus a few unusual suspects lurking around your photos saying funny things and carelessly “liking” away.
These things say that you may have other suitors. But you can’t be interested in all of us. Unless you just like him. The guy with the cool hair. How could you not like him? He seems like the most likely candidate. Are you interested in him but using me to prop up your self-esteem in case you get rejected? Damn it. Probably.
“So… where is this going?”
Whew. There it is. The social network-induced relationship anxiety spiral. We’ve all been there. And where does it lead? To that awkward moment.
To the “So…”
When it comes to relationships, nothing good ever follows the word “So.” And the conversation is always the same. “So… where’s this going?”; “So… what are we doing?” I’ve been on both sides of this conversation, and neither side is good. Why? Because the communication has already become so broken that one person actually has no idea what’s going on — and the other person is probably about to break out some unwanted information.
People long for clarity. Of course they do. We are surrounded by an increasing amount of noise, and it’s often hard to tell where one stands with someone.
Think about Facebook. Much has been said about it bringing on the demise of conversation — actual, face-to-face communication. But it’s not all bad. It also allows us to connect instantaneously, to craft our communication with someone in ways we might not be able to if we didn’t get a phone number. But it not only gives us access, it also gives direct photographic evidence of the noise. Who else is she hanging out with? Who is that liking all her pictures? Why does she never talk about this person? Or that person? Why did she say she can’t hang out tonight, but then here she is, hanging out. With other people. WHY WAS I NOT INVITED??
Ahhh, the anxiety. And that’s where it begins. The wondering. The asking friends. The anthropological dig that happens online — a digital gathering of all the evidence.
The “So…” moment is actually just a reflection of the anxiety that’s created around our social lives. Having so many choices — so many people at our fingertips — makes it increasingly difficult to settle down, to do the hard work required to be in and stay in relationships.
With social networking and our sometimes obsessive drive to express some better version of our lives, we’ve all permeated one another’s social anxieties. Somehow we’ve managed to turn everyone, including ourselves, into little celebrities, complete with carefully curated images and outward expressions of who we are — regardless of how close these are to anything resembling the actual, plain old “me.” And that leads to confusion. Who is this person I am dating? Am I actually dating them?
We must learn to communicate effectively in an age of over-communication, and that involves filtering out the noise. Filtering out the anxiety. And sometimes that starts with that awkward moment, with an actual, face-to-face conversation.
So… where’s this going?
9 Accessories Gynecologists Recommend For Better Sex...Oh My....
To bring this advice to your screen, Yahoo Health consulted Lauren Streicher, MD, associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Streicher created a list of the sexual aids gynecologists most often recommend to their patients. First up is lube, which can make all the difference in both partnered sex and masturbation. Water-based lubricant will usually do the trick for minor vaginal dryness — look for a glycerin-free product to avoid irritation — while silicone lube can ease more serious cases. Gynecologists are also increasingly suggesting that their patients explore the wonderful world of sex toys. The Hitachi Magic Wand, for example, is a tried-and-true classic, ideal for vibrator beginners.
LUBRICANTS
Lube is widely available in supermarkets across the country, which means the slick stuff is probably the least intimidating of the sexual aids available to women. In fact, in a 2014 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 66 percent of women in a nationally representative sample said they’d used a sexual lubricant before, most often to make sex more comfortable. But here’s the thing: “Not all lubricants are created equal,” said Streicher. And perhaps more important, not all women need the same lube — depending on the reason for your dryness, you may require a different product.
Try water-based lubricants for minor dryness:Astroglide Liquid, K-Y Ultragel, or Sliquid Naturals H20 Intimate Lubricant
Since they’re water-based, these lubes dry out faster than higher-end silicone products, which means they’re only suited for women with minor dryness. “If you’re a young woman on birth control, having a little bit of dryness, or maybe you’re breastfeeding, a water-based lubricant might be right for you,” said Dr. Leah Millheiser, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Stanford School of Medicine. Or as Streicher said, “Some people just need a little extra slip, and the K-Y is going to be just fine for them.”
Although water-based products are the least pricey of lubes, they can come with a cost: These tubes often contain glycerin — a sugar that yeast like to feed on — to keep the lube from feeling sticky, said Streicher. So if you’re prone to down-there infections, seek out a special glycerin-free water-based lube, such as Sliquid, which only contains five ingredients, unlike the laundry list of chemicals found in many supermarket products. Another worrisome ingredient to watch for: propylene glycol, which can cause irritation in some women, said Streicher.
The good news? Water-based lubricants are compatible with condoms, as well as silicone sex toys.
Try silicone lubricants for more severe dryness: Pjur Eros Bodyglide, Pink Silicone Lubricant, Replens Silky Smooth Lubricant, or Wet Platinum Premium Silicone Lubricant
Silicone lubes are the slickest products on the shelf, making them ideal for women with more severe vaginal dryness, whether from menopause, cancer treatment, or some other condition, said Millheiser. They tend to be less irritating and more slippery than water-based products, and also last longer. “They’re just as safe as the water-based ones, but are a little more moisturizing,” she said. Although you can use them with latex condoms, silicone lubes will damage your silicone sex toys, so if you’re an adventurous couple, you may want to stick with water-based products.
SEX TOYS
You won’t find a study telling you which vibrator is best, which means you may have to engage in a little trial-and-error (fun!) to find the right one for you. “The one that I recommend is going to depend on whether someone is self-stimulating, versus in a partnered relationship,” said Streicher. “It very much depends on the person’s situation.” Here are a few reliable options to consider: The Hitachi Magic Wand, a back massage for which women have found and alternative use.(Photo courtesy of the brand)
Hitachi Magic Wand
“This is what we call the Cadillac of vibrators,” said Millheiser. First introduced in the 1970s, the Magic Wand can be used to soothe a sore back — but it’s also found a niche as an “intimate” massager with so much power that women often find they need to place a towel between their lady parts and the device. “The Hitachi Magic Wand is really good for women who are post-menopausal and who need greater stimulation to achieve orgasm,” Millheiser told Yahoo Health.
Although it’s a bit clunky and has to be plugged into the wall, rather than running on batteries, “there are women who really love it,” said Millheiser. “It really makes a difference in their overall sexual functioning. And that in and of itself can improve self-esteem.”
The Jopen Intensity Kegel Exerciser let’s you get exercise down there, and have some fun, too! (Photo courtesy of the brand)
Jopen Intensity Kegel Exerciser
You could do hundreds of Kegel exercises per day — or you could simply employ this handy gadget. Here’s how it works: You inflate the shaft of the toy to your desired thickness (up to 3 inches), ideally so that it’s comfortably snug. Then coat it with electrode gel (which comes with it) and water-based lube, insert it into your vagina, and let the vibrations stimulate your PC muscles. If you want to test the strength of the vibrator’s settings before inserting it, tuck the Intensity into the crook of your elbow, an area that’s similar to the soft tissue inside your vagina, the manufacturers say.
The payoff? “This device actually allows a woman to strengthen her pelvic floor muscles,” said Millheiser. “When you strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, you have the potential to increase the intensity of orgasm.” Training your pelvic floor can be a pleasurable process: During early testing of the device, one woman admitted to experiencing one of the best O’s of her life — and similar reports kept rolling in. Even if the PC-muscle stimulation doesn’t do it for you, the other features of the Intensity will make sure your Kegel session isn’t all work and no play: The device also has clitoral and G-spot vibrators, “so you can use it as a sex toy at the same time you’re doing your homework,” Millheiser said.
Lelo Lyla 2
If you’ve never bought a vibe before, you may think basic dildos are the gold standard, since they most closely resemble a penis. “A well-meaning guy might get something that’s long and hard and shakes a lot, because he thinks that’s what women want, when in fact they really need clitoral stimulation,” Streicher said.
That’s because only about 20 to 30 percent of women can actually climax through penetration, which makes clitoral vibrators especially handy for intercourse — you can can tuck one between you and your partner to provide the clitoral stimulation you crave, Streicher said. Clitoral vibes are also great for solo sessions, especially for older woman who have vaginal shrinkage or dryness, making penetration painful. Note: The Lelo Lyla 2 is a high-end option, but any bullet-shaped device will do the trick (you just might have to buy batteries, instead of recharging your toy).
Vibratex Rabbit
If you do like the sensation of girth along with your clitoral action, try the Rabbit — a classic toy that has beads at the base of the shaft for stimulation of your vaginal opening, a vibrating head, and ears to awaken your clitoris. “You’ll have the feeling of something in your vagina, and you may get some G-spot stimulation along with the external clitoral stimulation,” said Streicher.
MISCELLANEOUS PRODUCTS
Soul Source Vaginal Dilators
Streicher recently saw a patient who’d been physically unable to have sex with her husband for two years — but thanks to dilator therapy, the couple was finally able to regain their former intimacy. “She actually cried in my office,” said Streicher. “Dilator therapy is absolutely essential for some women.” Dilators, which come in a range of sizes, are phallic-shaped — but they’re not designed for pleasure: After sliding one in, you leave the dilator inside your vagina for five to 15 minutes, concentrating on letting your vaginal muscles relax around it, Streicher said. You repeat this process daily, and once it becomes comfortable, you upgrade to a larger size.
Who should use ‘em? Dilators are designed to tackle painful sex, but if your discomfort is a result of dryness, you may just need lube or a prescription for vaginal estrogen. However, if your “vagina has either been shortened or made smaller, whether it’s because of tightening of muscles, inelastic tissue, surgery, or radiation,” dilator therapy may be right for you. One fairly common condition that dilators can treat: vaginismus, “where the muscles essentially contract down to keep the penis out,” said Streicher.
There are several dilators on the market, but doctors consistently recommend those by Soul Source. “They’re silicone, so they can be boiled for sterilization, and you can put them in the freezer if you want them to be a bit cooler,” said Millheiser. Plus, “they’re softer than many of the hard plastic dilators out there.” Other good options include Pure Romance Tapered Silicone Vaginal Dilators,Cool Water Cones, and MiddlesexMD Vaginal Dilators Kit.
Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer
Doctors often prescribe vaginal estrogen cream to restore moisturize down below, but Replens is a non-hormonal, over-the-counter option for tackling dryness, said Millheiser. “Replens is the only true vaginal moisturizer, meaning it’s actually meant for use in the vagina,” said Streicher. “It is not a lubricant. It has ingredients that increase the moisture of the cells in the vagina. Lubricants don’t change tissue — they just make it more slippery.”
Be warned: There are a number of lubes that call themselves moisturizers — a term probably used to make women feel more comfortable buying them — but if you check the ingredients, they’re no different from the KY’s of the world. “Replens is the only one that’s done the clinical trials to show that it changes the tissue,” she said.
To bring this advice to your screen, Yahoo Health consulted Lauren Streicher, MD, associate professor of clinical obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. Dr. Streicher created a list of the sexual aids gynecologists most often recommend to their patients. First up is lube, which can make all the difference in both partnered sex and masturbation. Water-based lubricant will usually do the trick for minor vaginal dryness — look for a glycerin-free product to avoid irritation — while silicone lube can ease more serious cases. Gynecologists are also increasingly suggesting that their patients explore the wonderful world of sex toys. The Hitachi Magic Wand, for example, is a tried-and-true classic, ideal for vibrator beginners.
LUBRICANTS
Lube is widely available in supermarkets across the country, which means the slick stuff is probably the least intimidating of the sexual aids available to women. In fact, in a 2014 study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 66 percent of women in a nationally representative sample said they’d used a sexual lubricant before, most often to make sex more comfortable. But here’s the thing: “Not all lubricants are created equal,” said Streicher. And perhaps more important, not all women need the same lube — depending on the reason for your dryness, you may require a different product.
Try water-based lubricants for minor dryness:Astroglide Liquid, K-Y Ultragel, or Sliquid Naturals H20 Intimate Lubricant
Since they’re water-based, these lubes dry out faster than higher-end silicone products, which means they’re only suited for women with minor dryness. “If you’re a young woman on birth control, having a little bit of dryness, or maybe you’re breastfeeding, a water-based lubricant might be right for you,” said Dr. Leah Millheiser, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Stanford School of Medicine. Or as Streicher said, “Some people just need a little extra slip, and the K-Y is going to be just fine for them.”
Although water-based products are the least pricey of lubes, they can come with a cost: These tubes often contain glycerin — a sugar that yeast like to feed on — to keep the lube from feeling sticky, said Streicher. So if you’re prone to down-there infections, seek out a special glycerin-free water-based lube, such as Sliquid, which only contains five ingredients, unlike the laundry list of chemicals found in many supermarket products. Another worrisome ingredient to watch for: propylene glycol, which can cause irritation in some women, said Streicher.
The good news? Water-based lubricants are compatible with condoms, as well as silicone sex toys.
Try silicone lubricants for more severe dryness: Pjur Eros Bodyglide, Pink Silicone Lubricant, Replens Silky Smooth Lubricant, or Wet Platinum Premium Silicone Lubricant
Silicone lubes are the slickest products on the shelf, making them ideal for women with more severe vaginal dryness, whether from menopause, cancer treatment, or some other condition, said Millheiser. They tend to be less irritating and more slippery than water-based products, and also last longer. “They’re just as safe as the water-based ones, but are a little more moisturizing,” she said. Although you can use them with latex condoms, silicone lubes will damage your silicone sex toys, so if you’re an adventurous couple, you may want to stick with water-based products.
SEX TOYS
You won’t find a study telling you which vibrator is best, which means you may have to engage in a little trial-and-error (fun!) to find the right one for you. “The one that I recommend is going to depend on whether someone is self-stimulating, versus in a partnered relationship,” said Streicher. “It very much depends on the person’s situation.” Here are a few reliable options to consider: The Hitachi Magic Wand, a back massage for which women have found and alternative use.(Photo courtesy of the brand)
Hitachi Magic Wand
“This is what we call the Cadillac of vibrators,” said Millheiser. First introduced in the 1970s, the Magic Wand can be used to soothe a sore back — but it’s also found a niche as an “intimate” massager with so much power that women often find they need to place a towel between their lady parts and the device. “The Hitachi Magic Wand is really good for women who are post-menopausal and who need greater stimulation to achieve orgasm,” Millheiser told Yahoo Health.
Although it’s a bit clunky and has to be plugged into the wall, rather than running on batteries, “there are women who really love it,” said Millheiser. “It really makes a difference in their overall sexual functioning. And that in and of itself can improve self-esteem.”
The Jopen Intensity Kegel Exerciser let’s you get exercise down there, and have some fun, too! (Photo courtesy of the brand)
Jopen Intensity Kegel Exerciser
You could do hundreds of Kegel exercises per day — or you could simply employ this handy gadget. Here’s how it works: You inflate the shaft of the toy to your desired thickness (up to 3 inches), ideally so that it’s comfortably snug. Then coat it with electrode gel (which comes with it) and water-based lube, insert it into your vagina, and let the vibrations stimulate your PC muscles. If you want to test the strength of the vibrator’s settings before inserting it, tuck the Intensity into the crook of your elbow, an area that’s similar to the soft tissue inside your vagina, the manufacturers say.
The payoff? “This device actually allows a woman to strengthen her pelvic floor muscles,” said Millheiser. “When you strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, you have the potential to increase the intensity of orgasm.” Training your pelvic floor can be a pleasurable process: During early testing of the device, one woman admitted to experiencing one of the best O’s of her life — and similar reports kept rolling in. Even if the PC-muscle stimulation doesn’t do it for you, the other features of the Intensity will make sure your Kegel session isn’t all work and no play: The device also has clitoral and G-spot vibrators, “so you can use it as a sex toy at the same time you’re doing your homework,” Millheiser said.
Lelo Lyla 2
If you’ve never bought a vibe before, you may think basic dildos are the gold standard, since they most closely resemble a penis. “A well-meaning guy might get something that’s long and hard and shakes a lot, because he thinks that’s what women want, when in fact they really need clitoral stimulation,” Streicher said.
That’s because only about 20 to 30 percent of women can actually climax through penetration, which makes clitoral vibrators especially handy for intercourse — you can can tuck one between you and your partner to provide the clitoral stimulation you crave, Streicher said. Clitoral vibes are also great for solo sessions, especially for older woman who have vaginal shrinkage or dryness, making penetration painful. Note: The Lelo Lyla 2 is a high-end option, but any bullet-shaped device will do the trick (you just might have to buy batteries, instead of recharging your toy).
Vibratex Rabbit
If you do like the sensation of girth along with your clitoral action, try the Rabbit — a classic toy that has beads at the base of the shaft for stimulation of your vaginal opening, a vibrating head, and ears to awaken your clitoris. “You’ll have the feeling of something in your vagina, and you may get some G-spot stimulation along with the external clitoral stimulation,” said Streicher.
MISCELLANEOUS PRODUCTS
Soul Source Vaginal Dilators
Streicher recently saw a patient who’d been physically unable to have sex with her husband for two years — but thanks to dilator therapy, the couple was finally able to regain their former intimacy. “She actually cried in my office,” said Streicher. “Dilator therapy is absolutely essential for some women.” Dilators, which come in a range of sizes, are phallic-shaped — but they’re not designed for pleasure: After sliding one in, you leave the dilator inside your vagina for five to 15 minutes, concentrating on letting your vaginal muscles relax around it, Streicher said. You repeat this process daily, and once it becomes comfortable, you upgrade to a larger size.
Who should use ‘em? Dilators are designed to tackle painful sex, but if your discomfort is a result of dryness, you may just need lube or a prescription for vaginal estrogen. However, if your “vagina has either been shortened or made smaller, whether it’s because of tightening of muscles, inelastic tissue, surgery, or radiation,” dilator therapy may be right for you. One fairly common condition that dilators can treat: vaginismus, “where the muscles essentially contract down to keep the penis out,” said Streicher.
There are several dilators on the market, but doctors consistently recommend those by Soul Source. “They’re silicone, so they can be boiled for sterilization, and you can put them in the freezer if you want them to be a bit cooler,” said Millheiser. Plus, “they’re softer than many of the hard plastic dilators out there.” Other good options include Pure Romance Tapered Silicone Vaginal Dilators,Cool Water Cones, and MiddlesexMD Vaginal Dilators Kit.
Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer
Doctors often prescribe vaginal estrogen cream to restore moisturize down below, but Replens is a non-hormonal, over-the-counter option for tackling dryness, said Millheiser. “Replens is the only true vaginal moisturizer, meaning it’s actually meant for use in the vagina,” said Streicher. “It is not a lubricant. It has ingredients that increase the moisture of the cells in the vagina. Lubricants don’t change tissue — they just make it more slippery.”
Be warned: There are a number of lubes that call themselves moisturizers — a term probably used to make women feel more comfortable buying them — but if you check the ingredients, they’re no different from the KY’s of the world. “Replens is the only one that’s done the clinical trials to show that it changes the tissue,” she said.
EXCLUSIVE: New York Mag’s Boy Genius Investor Made It All Up
Source: By Ken Kurson
In an exclusive Observer interview, Mohammed Islam, said to have investment returns of $72 million as a hs senior, admits he invented the whole story.
Monday’s edition of New York magazine includes an irresistible story about a Stuyvesant High senior named Mohammed Islam who had made a fortune investing in the stock market. Reporter Jessica Pressler wrote regarding the precise number, “Though he is shy about the $72 million number, he confirmed his net worth is in the ‘high eight figures.’ ” The New York Post followed up with a story of its own, with the fat figure playing a key role in the headline: “High school student scores $72M playing the stock market.”
And now it turns out, the real number is … zero.
In an exclusive interview with Mr. Islam and his friend Damir Tulemaganbetov, who also featured heavily in the New York story, the baby-faced boys who dress in suits with tie clips came clean. Swept up in a tide of media adulation, they made the whole thing up.
Speaking at the offices of their newly hired crisis PR firm, 5WPR, and handled by a phalanx of four, including the lawyer Ed Mermelstein of RheemBell & Mermelstein, Mr. Islam told a story that will be familiar to just about any 12th grader—a fib turns into a lie turns into a rumor turns into a bunch of mainstream media stories and invitations to appear on CNBC.
Here’s how it happened.
Observer: What was your first contact with the New York magazine reporter?
Mohammed Islam: My friend’s father worked at New York magazine and he had the reporter contact me. Then she [Jessica Pressler] called me.
You seem to be quoted saying “eight figures.” That’s not true, is it?
No, it is not true.
The Post trumpeted the boys’ investment success, as did New York magazine. (Photo: screencap.)
Is there ANY figure? Have you invested and made returns at all?
No.
So it’s total fiction?
Yes.
Are you interested in investing? How did you get this reputation?
I run an investment club at Stuy High which does only simulated trades.
If you had been playing with real money, would you have done really well?
The simulated trades percentage was extremely high relative to the S&P.
Where did Jessica Pressler come up with the $72 million figure?
I honestly don’t know. The number’s a rumor.
She said “have you made $72 million?”
[I led her to believe] I had made even more than $72 million on the simulated trades.
At this point the PR reps jumped in with Law & Order-style objections. A conference outside the room ensued. Back into the room came Mr. Islam.
All I can say is for the simulated trades, I was very successful. The returns were incredible and outperformed the S&P.
Damir, tell me where you fit into this.
Damir Tulemaganbetov: Well, I got excited by this whole trading thing and I said hey, let me get on board. I heard about this article coming out and Mohammed invited me and I met Jessica.
But you guys are pals outside of this?
We go to social gatherings and friends’ places.
Are you into stock-picking as well?
I haven’t been into it but I’m interested.
Mohammed, you’re from Queens and you go to this elite public high school. Is this a hobby of your parents as well or would you be the first person in your family to pursue high finance?
Mohammed Islam: In my immediate family, just me.
So what did your parents think when they’re reading that you’ve got $72 million?
Mohammed Islam: Honestly, my dad wanted to disown me. My mom basically said she’d never talk to me. Their morals are that if I lie about it and don’t own up to it then they can no longer trust me. … They knew it was false and they basically wanted to kill me and I haven’t spoken to them since.
You haven’t? Where did you sleep last night?
Mohammed Islam: At a friend’s house. But we didn’t sleep.
Damir Tulemaganbetov: We stayed awake all night. We’ve been checking out news all over the world.
Are your friends blowing up your phones?
Damir Tulemaganbetov: He had 297 unread messages and 190 LinkedIn. All the friends shared it.
Mohammed Islam: It was hyped up beyond belief.
Damir Tulemaganbetov: We were at CNBC. That’s why we’re dressed up. But we were there and literally in the building stressing out. We had 20 minutes. Then we three times asked them could we have 20 seconds to talk? [The boys ended up cancelling the CNBC appearance.]
Where do you go from here?
Damir Tulemaganbetov: Socially, people will be mad about it. But we’re sorry. Especially to our parents. Like my dad would read this and be like, “Oh my God,” because he’s a very humble man and I portrayed him like a bad father.
Mohammed Islam: At school, first things first. I am incredibly sorry for any misjudgment and any hurt I caused. The people I’m most sorry for is my parents. I did something where I can no longer gain their trust. I have one sister, two years younger, and we don’t really talk.
So that’s that. There was no $72 million, no “eight figures,” not even one figure. The story is already coming unglued as the commenters on New York’s site hammer the reporter for even thinking this was possible. New York has now altered its headline to back away from the $72 million figure but the story itself remains. Even if this working-class kid had somehow started with $100,000 as a high school freshman on day one at Stuy High, he’d have needed to average a compounded annualized return of something like 796 percent over the three years since. C’mon, man.
It’s not hard to see why the story was tough to resist for New York, which placed Mr. Islam’s alleged acumen at No. 12 in its 10th annual “Reasons to Love New York” issue. Ms. Pressler quoted him saying, “It’s not just about money. We want to create a brotherhood. Like, all of us who are connected, who are in something together, who have influence, like the Koch brothers …” Yep, nothing says success—or search engine optimization—quite like “Koch brothers.”
No one asked for my opinion, but I’m going to provide it anyway, having sat with these kids for a good bit on a tough day. They got carried away. They’re not children. But they’re not quite adults, either, and at least Mr. Islam was literally quaking as we spoke. So yeah, they probably should have known better. But New York and the New York Post probably should have, as well. This story smelled fishy the instant it appeared and a quick dance with the calculator probably would have saved these young men—and a couple reporters—some embarrassment.
Source: By Ken Kurson
In an exclusive Observer interview, Mohammed Islam, said to have investment returns of $72 million as a hs senior, admits he invented the whole story.
Monday’s edition of New York magazine includes an irresistible story about a Stuyvesant High senior named Mohammed Islam who had made a fortune investing in the stock market. Reporter Jessica Pressler wrote regarding the precise number, “Though he is shy about the $72 million number, he confirmed his net worth is in the ‘high eight figures.’ ” The New York Post followed up with a story of its own, with the fat figure playing a key role in the headline: “High school student scores $72M playing the stock market.”
And now it turns out, the real number is … zero.
In an exclusive interview with Mr. Islam and his friend Damir Tulemaganbetov, who also featured heavily in the New York story, the baby-faced boys who dress in suits with tie clips came clean. Swept up in a tide of media adulation, they made the whole thing up.
Speaking at the offices of their newly hired crisis PR firm, 5WPR, and handled by a phalanx of four, including the lawyer Ed Mermelstein of RheemBell & Mermelstein, Mr. Islam told a story that will be familiar to just about any 12th grader—a fib turns into a lie turns into a rumor turns into a bunch of mainstream media stories and invitations to appear on CNBC.
Here’s how it happened.
Observer: What was your first contact with the New York magazine reporter?
Mohammed Islam: My friend’s father worked at New York magazine and he had the reporter contact me. Then she [Jessica Pressler] called me.
You seem to be quoted saying “eight figures.” That’s not true, is it?
No, it is not true.
The Post trumpeted the boys’ investment success, as did New York magazine. (Photo: screencap.)
Is there ANY figure? Have you invested and made returns at all?
No.
So it’s total fiction?
Yes.
Are you interested in investing? How did you get this reputation?
I run an investment club at Stuy High which does only simulated trades.
If you had been playing with real money, would you have done really well?
The simulated trades percentage was extremely high relative to the S&P.
Where did Jessica Pressler come up with the $72 million figure?
I honestly don’t know. The number’s a rumor.
She said “have you made $72 million?”
[I led her to believe] I had made even more than $72 million on the simulated trades.
At this point the PR reps jumped in with Law & Order-style objections. A conference outside the room ensued. Back into the room came Mr. Islam.
All I can say is for the simulated trades, I was very successful. The returns were incredible and outperformed the S&P.
Damir, tell me where you fit into this.
Damir Tulemaganbetov: Well, I got excited by this whole trading thing and I said hey, let me get on board. I heard about this article coming out and Mohammed invited me and I met Jessica.
But you guys are pals outside of this?
We go to social gatherings and friends’ places.
Are you into stock-picking as well?
I haven’t been into it but I’m interested.
Mohammed, you’re from Queens and you go to this elite public high school. Is this a hobby of your parents as well or would you be the first person in your family to pursue high finance?
Mohammed Islam: In my immediate family, just me.
So what did your parents think when they’re reading that you’ve got $72 million?
Mohammed Islam: Honestly, my dad wanted to disown me. My mom basically said she’d never talk to me. Their morals are that if I lie about it and don’t own up to it then they can no longer trust me. … They knew it was false and they basically wanted to kill me and I haven’t spoken to them since.
You haven’t? Where did you sleep last night?
Mohammed Islam: At a friend’s house. But we didn’t sleep.
Damir Tulemaganbetov: We stayed awake all night. We’ve been checking out news all over the world.
Are your friends blowing up your phones?
Damir Tulemaganbetov: He had 297 unread messages and 190 LinkedIn. All the friends shared it.
Mohammed Islam: It was hyped up beyond belief.
Damir Tulemaganbetov: We were at CNBC. That’s why we’re dressed up. But we were there and literally in the building stressing out. We had 20 minutes. Then we three times asked them could we have 20 seconds to talk? [The boys ended up cancelling the CNBC appearance.]
Where do you go from here?
Damir Tulemaganbetov: Socially, people will be mad about it. But we’re sorry. Especially to our parents. Like my dad would read this and be like, “Oh my God,” because he’s a very humble man and I portrayed him like a bad father.
Mohammed Islam: At school, first things first. I am incredibly sorry for any misjudgment and any hurt I caused. The people I’m most sorry for is my parents. I did something where I can no longer gain their trust. I have one sister, two years younger, and we don’t really talk.
So that’s that. There was no $72 million, no “eight figures,” not even one figure. The story is already coming unglued as the commenters on New York’s site hammer the reporter for even thinking this was possible. New York has now altered its headline to back away from the $72 million figure but the story itself remains. Even if this working-class kid had somehow started with $100,000 as a high school freshman on day one at Stuy High, he’d have needed to average a compounded annualized return of something like 796 percent over the three years since. C’mon, man.
It’s not hard to see why the story was tough to resist for New York, which placed Mr. Islam’s alleged acumen at No. 12 in its 10th annual “Reasons to Love New York” issue. Ms. Pressler quoted him saying, “It’s not just about money. We want to create a brotherhood. Like, all of us who are connected, who are in something together, who have influence, like the Koch brothers …” Yep, nothing says success—or search engine optimization—quite like “Koch brothers.”
No one asked for my opinion, but I’m going to provide it anyway, having sat with these kids for a good bit on a tough day. They got carried away. They’re not children. But they’re not quite adults, either, and at least Mr. Islam was literally quaking as we spoke. So yeah, they probably should have known better. But New York and the New York Post probably should have, as well. This story smelled fishy the instant it appeared and a quick dance with the calculator probably would have saved these young men—and a couple reporters—some embarrassment.
