Fitness instructors Megan Ellis and Taryn Sisco from Barre East Fitness Studio in Frederick, Maryland, responded to body shaming after receiving a hurtful newspaper clipping. They published a blog post to spread the message that body shaming is unacceptable and to inspire others to stand against it. The post received significant attention and support from women nationwide. Despite knowing the sender's identity, they chose not to publicize it, aligning with their mission of providing a judgment-free zone. The sender later apologized, which Ellis and Sisco accepted, appreciating the conversation it started.

A major renovation by a team of experts, including Carrie Parker Interiors, LLC, transformed a classic 1920s Rye Colonial into a functional and stylish family home in Westchester County. The design blends energy and calm, formal and informal, classic and modern elements to meet the needs of a 21st-century family. Key areas like the family room, kitchen, breakfast room, dining room, office, entry, study, powder room, main bedroom, and main bath were updated with thoughtful design choices that enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal.

A former Airbnb in Waccabuc has been transformed into a rustic-chic, family-friendly home by designer Elizabeth Strianese. The remodel aimed to balance historic and modern elements, making the home feel both current and aged. Key features include a massive chalet-style fireplace, a three-story entryway with a blown-glass chandelier, a kitchen with slim-profile Shaker-style cabinets, and a playroom with a rock-climbing wall. The design incorporates natural materials, vintage elements, and a mix of colors to create a cozy, luxurious atmosphere.

A formal Bedford Hills home undergoes a transformation to create a serene outdoor living space, blending formal and contemporary elements. Homeowner Anni de Saint Phalle collaborates with landscape designer Max Apton from Sweet Clover Design to achieve a clean, naturalistic look. The redesign includes a patio with neutral colors, a pool house with indoor/outdoor furniture, a European-inspired breezeway, and a vibrant pool garden. The project emphasizes the use of unique plants, thoughtful hardscaping, and functional outdoor spaces for relaxation and entertainment.

Ham the Astrochimp was a pivotal figure in the history of space exploration, whose suborbital journey in 1961 demonstrated that living creatures could survive and function in space, paving the way for human space travel. Born in Cameroon and purchased by the United States Air Force, Ham underwent extensive training at the Holloman Aerospace Medical Center before his mission. Despite the challenges and malfunctions during his flight, Ham survived and his success was crucial for the subsequent mission of astronaut Alan B. Shepard, Jr. Ham's post-mission life was spent at the National Zoo and later at the North Carolina Zoological Park, where he died of a heart attack at age 26. His legacy is complex, with NASA celebrating his bravery and contributions, while others, including Jane Goodall, have criticized his treatment.

Hulda the witch, a Bohemian immigrant in Sleepy Hollow, played a significant yet controversial role during the Revolutionary War. Despite her contributions, including herbal remedies and fighting against British troops, she was ostracized by the villagers. After her death, she was given a Christian burial in an unmarked grave. Hulda's story, though largely considered a legend, has gained recognition through various local events and memorials, highlighting her bravery and the complex history of Sleepy Hollow.

Anelle Gandelman of A-List Interiors designed a new-construction Colonial in Scarsdale to be both beautiful and family-friendly. The home features a transitional design, mixing traditional and modern elements. Architectural details, performance fabrics, and durable materials like Caesarstone quartz were used throughout the home. Gandelman's approach emphasizes high-quality items that can withstand wear over time, with a focus on original art and cohesive color schemes. Each room is crafted to be functional and luxurious, accommodating both family activities and elegant entertainment.

Anelle Gandelman of A-List Interiors transforms a new-construction Colonial in Scarsdale into a family-friendly yet elegant home. The design incorporates transitional elements, blending classic and modern styles to create spaces suitable for both family activities and entertaining guests. Key features include custom wall paneling, performance fabrics, and cohesive color schemes. Each room is thoughtfully designed to balance aesthetics with functionality, ensuring durability and comfort for the busy family.

A family in Purchase collaborated with Dale Blumberg Interiors, led by Dale Blumberg and her daughter Jess, to redesign their home with a blend of functionality and glamour. The redesign involved cosmetic changes to the 1990s-built home, incorporating elements from the family's previous home and focusing on creating cohesive, layered spaces. Key areas like the living room, family room, dining room, and basement were transformed with a mix of patterns, textures, and global influences, resulting in a stylish yet practical living environment.

Positive punishment is a behavior modification technique that involves adding an unpleasant consequence to reduce unwanted behavior. Examples include scolding, hand slapping, writing assignments, and additional chores. While it can be effective in certain situations, it is often less preferred compared to reinforcement methods. Expert Elizabeth Rossiaky emphasizes that positive punishment should be tailored to the individual and used alongside other methods to teach alternative behaviors. Spanking and other physical punishments are generally not recommended due to potential negative effects on behavior and mental health.

Exclusive breastfeeding can act as a temporary form of birth control known as the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM). For LAM to be effective, it requires exclusive nursing, frequent breastfeeding, and the absence of menstruation, typically effective for up to six months postpartum. Factors such as introducing solids, using pacifiers, and returning to work can increase the chances of ovulation and pregnancy. Breastfeeding mothers can still get pregnant, and abrupt changes in nursing schedules may increase ovulation chances. It's important to maintain adequate calorie intake if breastfeeding while pregnant. Discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider, especially if considering fertility treatments.

Kitty Lunn, a former Washington Ballet dancer who became a paraplegic after an accident, continues to dance, teach, and choreograph through her company, Infinity Dance Theater. She emphasizes the importance of an open mind and the potential of dancers with disabilities. Lunn's journey highlights her resilience and dedication to making dance accessible for everyone, inspiring others to overcome their limitations.

Kitty Lunn, a former Washington Ballet dancer who became a paraplegic after an accident, continues to dance, teach, and choreograph through her company, Infinity Dance Theater. She emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness in recognizing the potential of dancers with disabilities. Lunn's journey highlights her innovative approach to adapting ballet techniques for wheelchair users and her commitment to making dance accessible to all.

The article reviews the top 20 best dog travel crates for 2020, highlighting their features, pros, and cons. It emphasizes the importance of choosing the right crate based on the mode of transportation and the dog's size. EliteField, Petmate, Maskeyon, MidWest, and MIM Variocage are among the top brands recommended, each praised for specific attributes such as sturdiness, ease of use, and safety. The article also provides tips on measuring dogs to select the appropriate crate size and advises on checking travel regulations for pets.

The article explores various parenting styles, including authoritative, authoritarian, attachment, permissive, free-range, helicopter, and uninvolved/neglectful. It discusses the pros and cons of each style, supported by research findings. Authoritative parenting is highlighted as the most effective, promoting mental health and well-being in children. Authoritarian parenting, while providing structure, may lead to negative outcomes like delinquency and depression. Attachment parenting fosters independence and emotional control but can be demanding for parents. Permissive parenting allows freedom but may result in higher stress and health issues. Free-range parenting encourages independence but carries risks of unsupervised harm. Helicopter parenting can reduce risky behaviors but may hinder self-confidence. Uninvolved parenting is linked to poor emotional and social outcomes. The article emphasizes that no single style is perfect and encourages a balanced approach tailored to individual children.

Experts discuss the topic of family nudity, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries, being open to answering children's questions, and respecting their changing attitudes as they grow older. Parents are encouraged to communicate openly and maintain a positive approach to body image, while also being mindful of their children's comfort and privacy.

Clifty Falls, one of Indiana's state parks, offers scenic views of waterfalls along Clifty Creek, especially in winter and spring. The park features 10 trails catering to both leisurely strollers and avid hikers, making it a worthwhile destination year-round.

Human bites, common among young children and during fights, can lead to infections due to the bacteria in the human mouth. Symptoms of infection include redness, swelling, pus discharge, and fever. Immediate medical attention is advised for bites that break the skin, especially near the face, feet, or hands. First aid involves cleaning and bandaging the wound, and in severe cases, antibiotics or surgery may be required. Preventive measures for child biting include teaching non-violent behavior and using positive reinforcement.

Pickleball, a sport combining elements of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong, originated in 1965 on Bainbridge Island. It has grown rapidly in popularity, especially among seniors, due to its accessibility, ease of learning, and adaptability. The sport's rules include underhand serves and a non-volley zone called 'the kitchen.' Geoffrey Jagdfeld from Solaris Sports Club and Gail Bell, a player at Club Fit, highlight the sport's benefits, including lighter equipment and shorter game times. Julia Vesei, a USA Pickleball Association ambassador, emphasizes the social and health benefits of playing pickleball.

Hiccups are involuntary diaphragmatic spasms that can affect anyone, including toddlers. They are usually harmless and self-limiting, but several natural remedies can help alleviate them in toddlers. These include chamomile, fennel, or peppermint tea, light pressure on the upper stomach, focused breathing techniques, tickling, and drinking cold water. Remedies to avoid include giving cayenne water, scaring the child, and having them drink while upside down. Persistent hiccups lasting more than 48 hours should be evaluated by a doctor. None of the remedies have been scientifically proven to be effective, but they are generally safe to try.

Michaela DePrince, a soloist with the Dutch National Ballet, has been recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon since August 2017. Despite the setback, she has remained active through Pilates, yoga, and physical therapy. DePrince is excited to return to the stage by June or July. Additionally, a film adaptation of her autobiography, 'Taking Flight,' directed by Madonna, is in the works. The article highlights her resilience and anticipation for future projects.

Seafood can be a beneficial part of a pregnant woman's diet, providing essential nutrients like protein, vitamins A and D, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for the baby's brain and eye development. However, it is crucial to avoid raw or undercooked seafood due to the risk of harmful parasites and bacteria, which can lead to foodborne illnesses and potential birth defects. Pregnant women should also be cautious of mercury levels in fish, opting for lower mercury options such as shrimp, salmon, and tilapia, and limiting canned tuna intake. Proper preparation and cooking of seafood are essential to ensure safety, and guidelines from the FDA and local advisories should be followed to minimize risks.

Belly bands are flexible support garments designed to alleviate lower back and abdominal pain during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. They help reduce sacroiliac joint pain, round ligament pain, and provide postpartum support, especially for women with diastasis recti. While beneficial, belly bands are a temporary solution and do not address underlying conditions.

Westchester's history dates back to the 16th century, with significant establishments like Wartburg, Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, and the Old Dutch Church of Sleepy Hollow. Wartburg, founded by Reverend William Passavant, started as an orphanage and evolved into a continuing care community. Caramoor, purchased by Walter and Lucie Rosen, became a center for music and the arts. The Old Dutch Church, built by Frederick Philipse, is renowned for its connection to Washington Irving's 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.' These sites offer rich historical insights and attract numerous visitors annually.

The article discusses the challenges parents face with picky eaters and suggests ways to prevent fussy eating habits from developing. It highlights a study from Duke University School of Medicine that found a significant percentage of young children are selective eaters. The article suggests that exposing children to a variety of flavors while still in the womb and through breast milk can influence their acceptance of different foods. Experts like Julie Mennella from the Monell Chemical Senses Center and Amy Bentley from NYU emphasize the importance of a varied diet during pregnancy and lactation. Nicole Silber, a nutritionist at Middleberg Nutrition, recommends introducing solid foods around 4 to 6 months and encouraging babies to touch and smell their food to enhance their sensory experience. The article concludes by advising parents to model healthy eating habits and to be patient with their child's developing palate.

Pets, particularly dogs, contribute significantly to physical and mental health, as evidenced by increased physical activity, social interaction, and reduced stress levels. Professionals and pet owners alike attest to the benefits, including lower blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and the release of mood-stabilizing chemicals in the brain. The companionship of pets provides a sense of safety, satisfaction, and purpose, especially for the elderly or those living alone.

Providence Mount St. Vincent in Seattle, also known as 'the Mount,' is a nursing home that shares its space with the Intergenerational Learning Center (ILC), a child-care center and preschool. This program aims to alleviate loneliness and boredom among the elderly residents by fostering intergenerational interactions. Studies suggest benefits for both the elderly, such as decreased loneliness and delayed mental decline, and children, including reduced ageism and enhanced social development. The concept, while not widespread, has roots in Japan and has seen interest in North America. The article also touches on the challenges of institutionalized care and the need for more meaningful engagement between generations. Filmmaker Evan Briggs has documented this unique setup in her upcoming documentary 'Present Perfect,' which explores the impact of such intergenerational connections.

Henry Bickel, a resident of White Plains, has significantly improved his balance and confidence through StepWISEnow, a fall prevention program founded by physical therapist Molly Olivia Roffman. The program, in partnership with local organizations, offers workshops and courses to improve balance, posture, and gait. The Centers for Disease Control and the New York State Department of Health recommend such programs to reduce falls among older adults. Participants like Henry and Bob Kahn have seen dramatic improvements, highlighting the program's effectiveness and the importance of proactive fall prevention.

The article highlights various lifelong learning programs in Westchester County, NY, including the Collegium for Lifelong Learning at Westchester Community College, Learning in Retirement at Iona College, and University Without Walls by Dorot. These programs offer older adults opportunities for intellectual stimulation, social interaction, and personal growth through a variety of courses and activities. Key figures such as Edith Litt, Kathleen Fredrick, and others are mentioned for their contributions to these programs. The sentiment towards these institutions is positive, emphasizing their value and impact on the community.

Members of the 60+ Cycling Group of Westchester gathered for their first ride of the season, fostering a sense of community and fitness among older adults. Michael Esposito, the group's founder, shares his journey from a heavy smoker to a fit cyclist, emphasizing the group's role in his health improvement. The group, which meets two to three times a week, offers various routes to accommodate different fitness levels and provides a social outlet for its members.

The article discusses the flessenlikker, a tool used in Dutch kitchens to scrape out the last bits of condiments from bottles and jars. It is described as a Norwegian invention that did not gain popularity in Norway but became a staple in the Netherlands. The flessenlikker is particularly useful for vla, a Dutch dessert similar to custard, which used to be sold in glass bottles. The tool is designed with a flexible head to fit inside bottles and has a long handle for easy reach. The article warns against versions with a steel insert that can rust. The piece is written by Tiffany R. Jansen, who mentions her experience with Dutch culture and food.

Bed-wetting is common among young children, with 20 percent of 5-year-olds and 5 percent of 10-year-olds experiencing it. Effective strategies to manage bed-wetting include bladder training, reducing fluid intake before bedtime, and using bed-wetting alarms. Psychological support and reassurance are crucial to help children overcome embarrassment and low self-esteem associated with bed-wetting. Products like GoodNites training pants and bed-wetting alarms can aid in managing the condition, with alarms showing a 50-75 percent success rate.

Fairmount's population surges during the annual James Dean Festival, a key event for the Fairmount Historical Museum, which features James Dean artifacts and Garfield merchandise. The festival includes various activities such as a car show, lookalike contest, and film screenings. The museum, housed in a historic Victorian home, also showcases local history and attracts significant international visitors.

The article discusses an incident where Taryn Sisco and her co-manager were body-shamed by an anonymous individual who sent them a photo with derogatory comments about their weight. The photo, which was intended to promote fitness and health, was criticized by the sender for featuring individuals who, according to the sender, did not embody those qualities. The sender's message suggested that such images encourage others to be overweight or obese. Despite the hurtful nature of the comments, Sisco and her co-manager decided not to let the negativity affect them and chose to take action against the body shaming they experienced.

Fitness instructors Megan Ellis and Taryn Sisco from Barre East Fitness Studio in Frederick, Maryland, received a body-shaming letter criticizing their appearance. In response, they published a blog post condemning body shaming and promoting body positivity. Their message resonated with many, garnering widespread support. Despite knowing the sender's identity, they chose not to publicly shame her, aligning with their studio's mission of providing a judgment-free zone. The sender later apologized, which Ellis and Sisco accepted, viewing the incident as an opportunity to start a meaningful conversation about body image.

The article discusses an innovative social arrangement at Residential and Care Center Humanitas in Deventer, the Netherlands, where students live rent-free in exchange for volunteering 30 hours a month to help the elderly residents. This arrangement provides students with affordable housing and offers the elderly companionship and assistance with technology. The program has been successful, leading to similar initiatives in other Dutch nursing homes and abroad, including Judson Manor in Cleveland, USA. The article highlights the mutual benefits of intergenerational living, such as reducing loneliness among the elderly and providing students with a unique living experience. It also touches on the financial pressures that led to the creation of this model and the positive psychological and social effects on both the students and the elderly residents.

Dutch college students are living in nursing homes like Residential and Care Center Humanitas in exchange for volunteer work, addressing both student housing shortages and the financial struggles of long-term care facilities. This intergenerational living model, which fosters meaningful relationships and combats loneliness among the elderly, is gaining popularity in the Netherlands, France, and the United States. Programs like these offer mutual benefits, providing students with affordable housing and elderly residents with social interaction and assistance.

The article draws parallels between the Miss America pageant and successful blogging, emphasizing the importance of first impressions, self-confidence, headline appeal, engaging opening sentences, and showcasing unique talents. It provides practical tips for bloggers to enhance their posts with visuals, maintain authenticity, and effectively capture readers' attention.