Welcome back
Sign in to comment to your favorite stories, participate in your community and interact with your friends
or
LOG IN WITH FACEBOOKNo account? Create one
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Subscribe to our
Newsletter
Entertainment
Ho Ho Hold The Phone, Hallmark Channel Has A Holiday Monopoly Game, And It’s On Sale NOW
Joy to the world, am I right?
25 September
31995
Ready or not, here come the holidays, friends, and if you're as obsessed with the spirit of the season as I am, you are much more ready than not. Thanks to Hallmark Channel's Monopoly game making it possible to celebrate all year long, you can be ready now, too!
<p><strong>I mean, come on! Just look how cuuuuute it is!</strong></p><center><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<a href="https://www.thepaperstore.com/p/mon-hallmark-channel-monopoly/55498700005" target="_blank"><img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDQzOTU5NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMzQyMjY5NH0.lierxnMNAz-SbsTVVk_b-CykbxlWa6eJJtf5Nt9E7VY/img.jpg?width=980" id="0c294" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="93c6e065bf2bf049458015ad9cdc0e09" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Hallmark Channel Monopoly game board and pieces"></a>
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">Hallmark Channel</small>
</p></center><h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.thepaperstore.com/p/mon-hallmark-channel-monopoly/55498700005" target="_blank">BUY NOW</a></h2><p>While it's normally $39.99, it's currently on sale right now for $24.99 and my heart (and wallet) are singing JOY TO THE WORLD. Plus, with the channel taking steps to become more inclusive in its classic romance movies with the upcoming release of its <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/hallmark-christmas-movie-gay-couple" target="_blank">first Hallmark Christmas movie to feature a gay couples' love story</a> (hopefully, just one of many to come), I'm here to support.</p><p><div id="div-gpt-2647825314-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647825314-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647825314-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p><p>So what makes this Monopoly board game Hallmark Channel-themed? Well, there's a festive spin on the classic properties so players can buy and trade places like Christmas tree farms and farmer's markets while the pieces take the shapes of different joyful objects like a Christmas tree and ice skates.</p><p>I don't know about you, but I'm buying this for myself — and maybe everyone else on my list who shamelessly watches Hallmark's holiday movies every year like it's their job (if only).</p>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Politics and Activism
If I Can Work Retail Wearing A Mask For An 8-Hour Shift, You Can Wear One For 8 Minutes Shopping
It is not political, no matter how much you argue.
25 September
14072
Stephanie Tango
The pandemic has been in our world for more than half of 2020 and people are still acting stupid. If anything, they're getting stupider. They think that the virus is gone. It's not. Stop going to frat parties. Stop trying to go places without a mask. I wish things were normal, too. They're not.
<p>I went back to my job at Target in May. Prior to that, I wanted to focus on school. I was assigned mask-checker shifts where I stood at the door for four hours and stared at the parking lot, counted the number of people in the store, and just reminded people to put on a mask. They'd see me standing there, turn around to go back to their car to get a mask, pull one out of their purse, and or give me a dirty look. </p><p><div id="div-gpt-2647795971-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647795971-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647795971-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p><p>To them, I was the reminder the world wasn't normal. I was just doing my job.</p><p>They got rid of this position, and now the person cleaning carts is tasked with mask checking while sanitizing. We give out free masks. You don't even have to pay or go out of your way. It's hard to do both cleaning and watching. People slip through and consider it an achievement.</p><p>I'm not confrontational. I'm not going to argue with people. I work in retail. I've seen all definitions of stupid. Go ahead, threaten to call corporate. Call corporate for all I care. You don't scare me. But you make me mad.</p><p>To the family who tried to argue they had a medical condition, you lying just so you don't have to wear a mask is disgusting. People have real health issues. You are risking their health by pretending yours is at risk.</p><p>To the lady who stood in the guest service line and proclaimed proudly that you left your mask in the car, it's not cool.</p><p>To the girl who was on the phone on speakerphone with your mask on your chin, I don't appreciate your spit all over the cosmetics section, and no your drama is not that good that we all have to hear it.</p><p>To the people who wear a mask with your nose sticking out, it's like wearing underwear with all your junk out. Your junk is not attractive. Put it away.</p><p>Maybe the virus was man-made, maybe it was an attempt at warfare. That does not change, however, that wearing a mask in public is not a political choice. It baffles me that people like to compare the right to own a gun with the right to not wear a mask. I've seen the see-through mask ads on social media. I'm disgusted.</p><p>Stores and places of business are giving you free masks. You can order a mask with literally anything you want on it. You can get a Baby Yoda mask. A Harry Potter mask. Anything you want. Stop making something necessary into something to complain about. </p><p>It's a common courtesy to the people around you. Workers are people too. We've touched so much stuff, sanitized everything, and done everything in our power to give you a seamless shopping experience with a worldwide pandemic. The fact you can get stuff delivered to your door within a few hours without moving yourself from the couch is a blessing.</p><p>If you're that upset about it, order curbside. We'd rather put stuff in your car than deal with you trying to make a point (that will not be political no matter how hard you try).</p><p>Just keep it on your face for half an hour. It's not that hard. </p><p>And to those people who ask how I can wear this mask for eight hours because you can't manage it for half an hour, the fact that you're asking is enough to tell me I don't like you.</p><p>Wear a mask and stop complaining.</p>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Health and Wellness
Yes, I Have Type 1 Diabetes, And Yes, I'm Still A Top Athlete
This disease will not stop me from excelling.
25 September
8283
Kai Parlett
In the summer of 2017, 20 type 1 diabetics completed a 10-week 4,000+ mile bike ride from New York to California. They biked against the advice of doctors, family, and friends. Many were skeptical that people with diabetes could complete such a physically challenging trip without putting themselves in danger due to their disease.
<p>These 20 diabetics proved that high-level athletics are in fact possible for people living with Type 1.</p><p>Many people commonly mistake <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-1-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20353011" target="_blank">type 1 diabetes</a> with type 2. While type 2 is generally caused by weight and inactivity, type 1 is a genetic condition that people have no control over. Type 1 is also more challenging to control, as unlike type 2 diabetes, exercise and healthy eating play no role in the treatment </p><p><div id="div-gpt-2647720307-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647720307-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647720307-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p><p>As a diabetic athlete, I was excited to read about the bike trip. Several of my experiences involve coaches not understanding my illness — as a result, I was struggling to maintain a healthy blood sugar level on the soccer field, the lacrosse field, and the ski slopes without the support to make it easier. </p><h4>Playing sports as a diabetic requires more awareness from both me and my coaches, but it is by no means impossible. </h4><p>Many people have preconceived notions about diabetes and are unwilling to listen when I try to explain my disease to them. Coaches have told me I am wrong about something I live with every day, and I have been reprimanded for following my doctor's instructions. </p><p>At times, people view my diabetes as something I am using as an excuse to not work as hard as the other players. </p><p>A good friend of mine, who is also a type 1 diabetic, was at a championship ski race in Vermont when her coach refused to listen to what she needed for her diabetes, and thus, jeopardized her health. She was one of the later racers, but her coach asked her to take her jacket off at the start of the race. </p><p>Insulin can't go below a <a href="https://wa.kaiserpermanente.org/healthAndWellness/index.jhtml?item=%2Fcommon%2FhealthAndWellness%2Fconditions%2Fdiabetes%2FinsulinStorage.html" target="_blank">certain temperature</a> or it freezes and ceases to be functional. Since her insulin was stored in a pod attached to her arm, taking her jacket off that early was not a good idea. My friend tried to explain this to her coach, but he wrote it off as her simply being cold and coming up with excuses to put her jacket back on. </p><p>In the end, her insulin froze, but her pod continued to inject frozen insulin into her body, which was both painful and not beneficial to her health. </p><p>It is these situations that are challenging for athletes with type 1 diabetes. </p><p>As I write about all the struggles diabetics face when playing sports, I feel as though I am neglecting the moments when coaches and fellow athletes are extremely supportive. At the beginning of a lacrosse game last spring, the referee was giving me a hard time because my insulin pump was on my leg and not covered by my uniform. The referee was angry because my pump counted as exposed plastic and was not allowed during the game. </p><p>My coach and I spoke briefly, and I explained to her that if I removed the catheter from my thigh before the game, I would not be able to give myself insulin for dinner later. My blood sugar would soar. My coach was very understanding and helped me explain the situation to the referee. </p><p>Moments like that are examples of what should happen. </p><p>Type 1 diabetes does not prevent me or anyone else from playing sports. I take every opportunity I can to educate people about diabetes because I think sports will be a lot easier when people simply understand. The biggest thing is that some people don't listen when diabetics try to explain the disease — they assume they are right. </p><p>The truth is, each diabetic's body responds to treatment differently. It's a very individual disease. I need to be able to make decisions about my health without being second-guessed and questioned. I can play sports, and I can excel at them with the support of my coaches, just like any other athlete. </p>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Entertainment
Mandy Moore And Her Husband Are About To Start Their Own Pearson Family
"Baby Boy Goldsmith coming early 2021!"
25 September
8350
No tears with today's "This Is Us" news!
<p>Supermom Rebecca Pearson is going to be a mom IRL! Mandy Moore and her husband Taylor Goldsmith shared the news on their Instagrams Thursday afternoon! </p><p><strong>"Baby Boy Goldsmith coming early 2021!"</strong></p><div id="aaad6" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c0536d2f8415dafedd8e0d87f7b1f0c1"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0;
border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);
margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px);
width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center;
width:100%;">
<div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC);
display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div></div><p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CFh5kwLg8ja/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif;
font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;
word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">Login • Instagram</a></p>
</div></blockquote></div><p>The two <a href="https://people.com/tv/mandy-moore-one-year-wedding-anniversary-taylor-goldsmith/#:~:text=Moore%20and%20Goldsmith%2C%2034%2C%20got,romantic%2C%E2%80%9D%20said%20the%20source." target="_blank">tied the knot in November 2018 in a dreamy backyard wedding</a> at Moore's home in Pasadena.<br></p><p>"This Is Us" co-stars Susan Kelechi Watson, Niles Fitch, and Hannah Zeile commented on the post and celebrated Moore's happy news. Ellen DeGeneres was quick to chime in with a joke, "Congratulations! I love that you already know the sex...and the profession." </p><p>If Moore is anything like her character Rebecca Pearson on "This Is Us," she is going to be one powerful momma. In the show, she is a first-time mom who handles the loss of one triplet during childbirth, adopts Randall, grieves the loss of her husband, raises three teenagers on her own after his death, AND loses the family house during a fire that ALSO took her husband. <strong>She is a queen. She is strong. She is brave. She is a role model.</strong> </p><p><div id="div-gpt-2647795760-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647795760-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647795760-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p><p>Poking fun at her real-life pregnancy and TV show pregnancy, Moore posted a fun, behind the scenes photos on her Instagram story today with on-screen hubby Milo Ventimiglia. Today's first day of filming only means one thing...we are getting closer to welcoming the Pearson's into our family rooms every Tuesday!</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDQzNzc5MC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTAwODE3NH0.rjb893-AYozrqrqUoClQUGuNnH7_418HwvslhF8b1NA/img.jpg?width=980" id="cd8d1" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="143b0f6ffb6909376fb6b68ded7b28c8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="Mandy Moore Instagram Story">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="Add Photo Credit...">@mandymooremm</small></p><p>The show announced today they are returning to our TV screens two weeks sooner than originally expected. You can catch the two-hour season five premiere in just <strong>four weeks</strong> on Tuesday, October 27!<br></p><div id="adfdf" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="504a5740ccb5567a59c2d611b2161e7d"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0;
border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);
margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px);
width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center;
width:100%;">
<div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC);
display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div></div><p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CFh70NAn-8i/%E2%80%8B" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif;
font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;
word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top"></a></p>
</div></blockquote></div>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Entertainment
Demi Lovato And Max Ehrich Broke Off Their Engagement And, Sorry Not Sorry, We Saw This Coming
I love Demi, but I can't say I'm surprised.
25 September
19497
That's right, you heard that correctly: Demi Lovato and Max Ehrich called off their engagement after the couple originally announced their engagement in July after beginning to date in March.
<p>As sad as I am for the two of them because it was probably an incredibly hard decision, you really don't know someone after only four months of dating. In fact, the "<a href="https://rccaustin.com/blog/honeymoon-phase-end-happens-next#:~:text=This%20is%20called%20the%20%E2%80%9Choneymoon,it%20comes%20to%20an%20end." target="_blank">honeymoon phase</a>" of dating can be anything from six months to two years. Considering they started dating in March, and it's now September, they really just hit the end of that honeymoon phase as this was all going down. </p><p><strong>It doesn't mean they didn't love each other at some point or want to be with each other, it just means that as the starry eyes and heart eyes wore off, so did the relationship.</strong></p><p><div id="div-gpt-2647795740-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647795740-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647795740-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p><p>In all reality, <a href="https://www.brides.com/story/this-is-how-long-most-couples-date-before-getting-married#:~:text=According%20to%20recent%20data%2C%20most,between%2012%20and%2018%20months." target="_blank">most couples date for an average</a> of two to five years before getting engaged and remain engaged for 12 to 18 months before getting married. This isn't to say that a quick engagement and marriage can't be successful because it can be, but this is to say that maybe, just maybe, Demi and Max got starry-eyed and overzealous in their honeymoon phase.</p><p>Relationships have to be tested, and they can be tested in short relationships at times. The true test comes, though, when you've been with someone for years, seen them at their worst, seen them at their best, and everything in between and still want to wake up every day and fight for your relationship. Fight for that person even when it's hard because you can't picture your life without them.</p><p><strong>A four-month relationship followed by a two-month engagement seems pretty disposable to me.</strong></p><p>People can enter your life just as suddenly as they can leave it, and I think that's why so many people tend to date for several years before making that commitment because marriage is a super serious commitment and not something to be taken lightly. You need to make sure that your future spouse isn't going to walk out of the door just as quickly as they walked into it. </p><p>So, sorry not sorry, but as much as everyone was rooting for this to work out, if we're honest with ourselves, we knew that more than likely it wasn't going to last...</p>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Swoon
Demi Lovato's Called-Off Engagement Reminds Us Of The Importance Of Taking Our Time In Relationships
While this may be another hardship she sadly has to endure, I know she will find a way to inspire and help others through it.
25 September
10014
I am heartbroken.
<p>About two months ago, Demi Lovato and Max Ehrich blessed our Instagram feeds with the most <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/demi-lovato-max-ehrich-engagement" target="_blank">beautiful proposal</a>. It seemed like they were so in love — full of vivacious energy and bright smiles. However, underneath the proposal and all its fairytale glory was a slight crack, one that most people chose to look past, including myself.</p><p><strong>Demi and Max had really only been in a serious relationship since March when they started quarantining together.<br></strong></p><p>Unfortunately, this would later prove to be an issue and they've since <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/demi-max-broken-engagement" target="_blank">called off their engagement</a>. No matter how in-love the couple appeared to be on our Instagram feeds, marrying someone after only knowing them for five months is not ideal. Not to mention, being forced to be inseparable due to quarantine put an unrealistic mask over their relationship. <br></p><p><div id="div-gpt-2647795473-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647795473-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647795473-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p><h3>A quarantine relationship is simply not a real relationship. <br></h3><p>Quarantine, for some couples, was essentially bliss. There were no busy work schedules or socializing with other people. It was just Demi and Max all day, all the time, enjoying the warm California weather poolside. And they fell madly, deeply in-love during this time, causing them to rush the relationship <em>to the extreme.<br></em></p><p><strong>Unfortunately, in our society, we seem to be conditioned to believe we always need to be in a relationship. And that, at some point, we need to get married before we're "too old."<br></strong></p><p>I don't know Demi personally, and I probably never will, but there are a lot of people who believe love is like oxygen. Without it, we feel like we're dying. We want to be loved, but more importantly, we want to show we are "lovable." What's even worse, though, is so many people believe they <em>need</em> to prove this by marrying before a certain age. And so, they rush their relationships.<br></p><p>We fall so in love with people during the honeymoon phase that we can forget to look at them in a different light. We forget to recognize their bad traits and their shortcomings. We forget to really know them for who they are and not the person they are trying to be to impress us. <br></p><p><strong>We are sure they are the person we want to spend the rest of our lives with, so why wouldn't we just take that leap as soon as possible so we can fit society's standards before it's "too late"?</strong><br></p><div>Because society has convinced us that it is 100% necessary, we rush relationships that might not be ready for a lifelong commitment. We rush relationships that aren't meant to be. All to feel fulfilled in life, because the pressures of society have convinced us we need a fairytale to be happy. <br></div><div><span></span></div><p><strong>But if you don't finish the fairytale, how do you really know if the characters are meant to be together?<br></strong></p><p>Oftentimes, from the outside looking in, our friends are the first to notice a relationship just isn't meant to be. Outsiders are more likely to notice the cracks that our lovesick puppy eyes glaze right over.<br></p><p><a href="https://www.eonline.com/news/1191663/demi-lovato-and-max-ehrich-break-up-2-months-after-engagement?cmpid=social_instagram_bio%26source%3Dinstagram-enews%26medium%3Dlink-post" target="_blank">Demi's friends expressed their own hesitancy</a>: "People close to Demi have expressed that they are worried and are hesitant about Max."<br></p><p>Demi couldn't see that this relationship wasn't meant to be, and anyone who has been in love knows you just aren't going to see it in the "fairytale stage." However, if she had just given the relationship more time and not rushed it, she might have eventually seen Max's shortcomings, too. Shortcomings that just weren't going to form a lifelong relationship.<br></p><p><strong>Demi has been through a lot in her life, and she continues to inspire me and countless other people every day. While this may be another hardship she sadly has to endure, I know she will find a way to inspire and help others through it.<br></strong></p><p>This is devastating — for her, her family, and her fans. Everyone just wants her to finally find happiness, as she seems to have found within herself. But maybe her time to love herself, maybe her time to be independent, just isn't over yet. <br></p><p>And if we can learn anything from this situation, it's that it's OK not to rush a relationship. Take it slow. Enjoy the fairytale stage and mature together into the next stage. It may get harder before it gets blissful again, but if you take things one step at a time, you'll be ready for marriage. On your time, not on society's time.<br></p><p>And if it's your time to be a single, independent, boss babe like Demi, live it up! There's no need to rush a relationship or into a relationship.<br></p><p><strong></strong><em><strong>Follow Swoon on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/odysseyswoon/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.</strong></em><br></p>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Entertainment
Hallmark Is Releasing A Christmas Movie All About A Gay Couple And My Ally Heart Can't Wait
They are finally diversifying our favorite time of the year.
25 September
5566
We all love a good ol' sappy Christmas movie and this year, the Hallmark Channel is finally giving us what we want: diversity.
<p>The heart of tv is making my heart skip a beat with the debut of a new LGBTQ storyline about a gay couple, played by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jonathandbennett/?hl=en" target="_blank">Jonathan Bennet</a> and Brad Harder, looking to adopt their first child. </p><p>Now, I could argue that this is still a very "straight-washed" version of gay life, but all Hallmark Christmas movies are cliche and not necessarily the most realistic, but that's what we love about them, so I'll take it. And, I guess society isn't ready to watch gay people fall in love – this will be our next campaign.</p><div id="4b7b5" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="57d9a0a2063186f95c210f02e227da5d"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="4" style=" background:#FFF; border:0;
border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15);
margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px);
width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:8px;">
<div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center;
width:100%;">
<div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAAGFBMVEUiIiI9PT0eHh4gIB4hIBkcHBwcHBwcHBydr+JQAAAACHRSTlMABA4YHyQsM5jtaMwAAADfSURBVDjL7ZVBEgMhCAQBAf//42xcNbpAqakcM0ftUmFAAIBE81IqBJdS3lS6zs3bIpB9WED3YYXFPmHRfT8sgyrCP1x8uEUxLMzNWElFOYCV6mHWWwMzdPEKHlhLw7NWJqkHc4uIZphavDzA2JPzUDsBZziNae2S6owH8xPmX8G7zzgKEOPUoYHvGz1TBCxMkd3kwNVbU0gKHkx+iZILf77IofhrY1nYFnB/lQPb79drWOyJVa/DAvg9B/rLB4cC+Nqgdz/TvBbBnr6GBReqn/nRmDgaQEej7WhonozjF+Y2I/fZou/qAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC);
display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;">
</div></div><p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CFiFOAZFrQZ/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif;
font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;
word-wrap:break-word;" target="_top">Login • Instagram</a></p>
<p><div id="div-gpt-2647781267-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647781267-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647781267-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p></div></blockquote></div><h3>Although I am a straight ally, my brother is gay and I'm sure he would have loved seeing a bunch of gay dudes doing our yearly holiday movie marathon nights. Representation, whether that be gender, sexuality, race, culture, ethnicity, religionetc., is so important when it comes to mass media. When we see ourselves in others, we feel like we belong, and everyone deserves to belong to society. <br></h3><p>The Hallmark Channel is known for its positive Christmas-themed romance movies that only feature cis-couples as the lead. There have been buckets of criticism that streamed in when Hallmark pulled their <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/wireStory/hallmark-draws-criticism-pulling-sex-wedding-ads-67744489" target="_blank">same-sex marriage ads</a>. Thankfully, the channel decided to reverse that decision, but what was done, was done.</p><p> That was a huge mistake and the internet began to urge the channel to feature an LGBTQ lead and back in July a spokesperson of the company said that they are "<a href="https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/story/hallmark-channel-announces-christmas-movie-featuring-gay-couple-73181788?fbclid=IwAR0UZDpGEarGYUKcWFpWxpntUeoamhg96gxYOBcDZrv8Dcueg8u8KC9QQu8" target="_blank">committed to creating a Hallmark experience where everyone feels welcome</a>." </p><p>They are finally meeting that promise with "The Christmas House," which premiers Sunday, November 22. I'm already preparing my popcorn, hot chocolate, and flamingo slippers. This is it guys, we are one step closer to getting that Hallmark Gay channel.</p>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Health and Wellness
Seasonal Depression Is Real And It Deserves Our Attention
Check in on your friends throughout the winter season, it can be brutal.
25 September
2449
As we transition seasons and enter the last few months of the year, some are feeling grand about this natural shift. But that doesn't mean everyone is thrilled that the weather is cooling down — it's important to extend your knowledge to the phenomenon that is seasonal depression.
The lack of sunlight during the later seasons of the year, beginning with autumn, triggers a state of depression for about 15% of the population. This results in the lack of serotonin provided by the sun, causing it to be hard for some to do a lot of the things that would normally be deemed simple tasks to do during the earlier times in the year like getting out of bed, showering, going to work/school, etc. A major difference is an intense need for sleep similar to a hibernation effect.
<p><strong>Though seasonal depression is specifically something that occurs in certain periods throughout the year, it is important to not brush it off or look past it.</strong></p><p>Seasonal depression, like other disorders, varies from case to case. However, it is common for it to get worse if it isn't dealt with in a serious manner. It is important to note that you do not have to wait until later months for things to finally start looking up for you.</p><p>Some common modes of treatment for seasonal depression include medication, psychotherapy, light therapy which actually extremely recommended by doctors for seasonal depression and allows you to take lower dosages of antidepressants if needed on top of this.</p><p>SSRIs, which stands for <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/ssris/art-20044825#:~:text=How%20SSRIs%20work,reuptake)%20of%20serotonin%20into%20neurons." target="_blank">serotonin reuptake inhibitors</a>, are antidepressants that increase your levels of serotonin.</p><p>Though obviously, not everyone is keen on seeking outside help, there are common, helpful ways to try dealing with it on your own as well. You can purchase your own light therapy box to have at home, which is actually super resourceful. Get outside as much as you can during the day. Take vitamin D supplements. Stick to a daily routine. Keep your blinds open. Sunlight really does play a huge part in seasonal depression. </p><p>Seasonal depression is no joke — your loved ones need your support. Here are five simple, effective ways to show them you're there for them. </p><p><div class="powrload_9edb92"></div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem1" data-id="1" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/seasonal-depression-is-real-2647794830/1-listen" data-basename="1-listen" data-post-id="2647794830" data-published-at="1601046929" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
1. Listen
</h2>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem2" data-id="2" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/seasonal-depression-is-real-2647794830/2-offer-to-help-with-daily-tasks" data-basename="2-offer-to-help-with-daily-tasks" data-post-id="2647794830" data-published-at="1601046929" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
2. Offer to help with daily tasks
</h2>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem3" data-id="3" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/seasonal-depression-is-real-2647794830/3-dont-minimize-their-sadness-acknowledge-it-for-what-it-is" data-basename="3-dont-minimize-their-sadness-acknowledge-it-for-what-it-is" data-post-id="2647794830" data-published-at="1601046929" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
3. Don't minimize their sadness, acknowledge it for what it is
</h2>
</div>
<div id="div-gpt-2647794830-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647794830-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647794830-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem4" data-id="4" data-reload-ads="true" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/seasonal-depression-is-real-2647794830/4-educate-yourself-on-depression" data-basename="4-educate-yourself-on-depression" data-post-id="2647794830" data-published-at="1601046929" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
4. Educate yourself on depression
</h2>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem5" data-id="5" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/seasonal-depression-is-real-2647794830/5-be-patient" data-basename="5-be-patient" data-post-id="2647794830" data-published-at="1601046929" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
5. Be patient
</h2>
</div></p><div class="post-pager js-listicle-pager" data-listicle-style="" data-async_load_parameters="platform=desktop&display_ads=1&settings=%7B%22enter_url%22%3A+null%2C+%22no_post_section%22%3A+null%2C+%22ads_breaks%22%3A+%5B3%5D%2C+%22prevent_last_break_repetition%22%3A+false%2C+%22use_numeration%22%3A+false%2C+%22show_columns_on_mobile%22%3A+null%2C+%22ads_order%22%3A+%5B3%2C+3%2C+3%2C+3%2C+3%5D%2C+%22turn_into_posts%22%3A+null%2C+%22list_breaks%22%3A+null%2C+%22reorder_voting%22%3A+null%2C+%22cooldown_in_seconds%22%3A+null%2C+%22pagination_order%22%3A+null%2C+%22source%22%3A+%22engine_settings%22%2C+%22next_post_url%22%3A+null%2C+%22up_down_voting%22%3A+false%2C+%22allow_url_change%22%3A+null%2C+%22numeration_sort%22%3A+-1%2C+%22allow_url_update%22%3A+null%2C+%22use_pagination%22%3A+false%2C+%22body_text_above%22%3A+false%2C+%22use_ads%22%3A+true%2C+%22items_as_posts%22%3A+false%2C+%22multiple_answers%22%3A+null%2C+%22no_redirect%22%3A+null%2C+%22is_guest_voting_allowed%22%3A+null%2C+%22layout_type%22%3A+null%2C+%22voting_extra_fields%22%3A+null%7D">
</div>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Swoon
Expert Says You SHOULD Be Talking Politics On Dates, Especially If It's A Potential Dealbreaker For You
Sounds crazy, but...
24 September
2152
Gustavo Fring from Pexels
When you go on a date, there are certain topics that are considered "taboo" to talk about.
<p>Especially if you don't know the person all that well. One of these so-called "taboo topics" is politics. However, I was able to chat with Jennifer Wexler, dating coach and founder of "<a href="https://findrealloveafter40.com" target="_blank">Find Real Love After 40</a>," who says talking politics on a first date could actually be a good thing.</p><p>If you're wondering why someone would want to talk about such a touchy subject right away, Wexler shared, "Politics is going to come up at some point" and it's better to know about someone's political background right away, especially if politics is a potential deal-breaker because "It's better to know now than later."</p><p><div id="div-gpt-2647793852-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647793852-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647793852-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div></p><p>Of course, though, that doesn't mean you have to bring it up on your first date, it's something that can be discussed at any time, but you have to decide how important it is for you to know and whether it could potentially cause problems later on if you don't. The best way to bring up politics once you are ready, Wexler suggests, is in a curious way, rather than a way that feels like probing.</p><p><strong>When asking your date about politics, Wexler advises people to focus on values, rather than beliefs.</strong></p><p>She says it's important to figure out where they developed their values, and what they consider important. "Be respectful and kind," she emphasized, "Explain why you voted for someone, and why you believe certain things, then ask them to do the same." This approach can also be used to talk about other touchy subjects, like money or religion.</p><p>The big question, though, is how to approach a situation in which you learn the person you're dating has different values or politics than you. Firstly, don't worry! It <em>is</em> possible to continue the relationship. The key to making it work, Wexler says, is in the way you respond: "It can work out if you respond with curiosity and an open mind, not if you respond with aggression. Respect each other's differences, knowing that you might not necessarily agree on issues."</p><p><strong>Values are more often much more important than political beliefs.</strong></p><p>Wexler even shared that her own parents have different political views, however, they share the same values, which lead to healthy debates that can be really good for a romantic relationship.</p><p>Naturally, not everyone can date someone who has different political views, so that is why it ends up being so important to talk about this early on — particularly for those who want to date someone with the same political affiliation. No matter what, you must be respectful, then choose to do what's best for you: opt into a relationship built on the same values and healthy debate on political topics or choose to date someone with similar views.</p><p>"Dating is about getting to know someone authentically," Wexler says, "You're collecting info and data and figuring out if that person is right for you." If they are, fantastic, if not, there's always the next one. But either way, you must be respectful.</p><p><strong><em></em></strong><em><strong>Follow Swoon on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/odysseyswoon/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.</strong></em><br></p>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Health and Wellness
September Is Suicide Awareness Month, But Mental Health Is An Everyday Discussion
Mental illnesses deserve our attention 365 days a year.
24 September
2986
September is Suicide Awareness Month, providing an opportunity to raise awareness, further educate yourself, and remember the reality that mental illnesses present. Yet it's critical to understand that suicide awareness is not an annual Instagram hashtag to use and forget. Actively advocating for mental health resources, progress in education, and a broken stigma is an everyday ask — an activity that we can each participate in.
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem3" data-id="3" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/september-is-suicide-awareness-month/suicide-is-the-10th-leading-cause-of-death-within-the-united-states" data-basename="suicide-is-the-10th-leading-cause-of-death-within-the-united-states" data-post-id="2647793718" data-published-at="1600996430" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death within the United States.
</h2>
<p>This, and <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/suicide-prevention-day-is-september-10-and-i-have-5-things-to-remind-you-about-mental-health-in-the-united-states" target="_blank">other fast facts</a> surrounding this discussion, is a staggering reality. It's not uncommon to know someone — a family member, a friend, a classmate, a coworker — who died by suicide. </p>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem1" data-id="1" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/september-is-suicide-awareness-month/2020-has-seen-an-increase-in-suicide-rates" data-basename="2020-has-seen-an-increase-in-suicide-rates" data-post-id="2647793718" data-published-at="1600996430" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
2020 has seen an increase in suicide rates.
</h2>
<p>We all know that 2020 has thrown everyone a curveball or two. Between a pandemic, racial injustice, an impending election, and our "normal" lives, there's a lot going on. It's easy to become overwhelmed, without hope, and unsure of how to navigate the future. This doesn't mean that you're stuck. There are still <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/as-someone-who-struggles-with-anxiety-im-using-these-7-tactics-to-get-through-2020" target="_blank">tactics you can use to spark positive mental health</a>, even when times are bleak. These tactics do not serve as a fix-all for mental illnesses — don't hesitate to go see a doctor — but they do provide options that could bring a little light and stability into your day. </p>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem6" data-id="6" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/september-is-suicide-awareness-month/the-stigma-surrounding-mental-health-is-still-very-prominent" data-basename="the-stigma-surrounding-mental-health-is-still-very-prominent" data-post-id="2647793718" data-published-at="1600996430" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
The stigma surrounding mental health is still very prominent.
</h2>
<p>While many have used their voices in hopes of breaking down the stigma, there is still a very real fear of discussing these issues. Especially amongst men, who die by suicide <a href="https://wmich.edu/suicideprevention/basics/facts" target="_blank">four times</a> more than females do, <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/11-things-we-can-all-do-to-break-the-stigma-surrounding-mens-mental-health" target="_blank">the stigma that mental illnesses equate to weakness</a> has been unjustly normalized. </p><p>Mental illnesses, while not to be romanticized, are far from uncommon. Nearly <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness.shtml" target="_blank">one in five adults</a> in the United States suffer from a mental illness, and 41% of those cases go untreated. With numbers that back up the normalcy of mental struggles, the fact that there is still a stigma surrounding this conversation is unacceptable. </p>
</div>
<div id="div-gpt-2647793718-content-ad" class="ad"><script>
if(isFeed1x1){
isFeed1x1=false;
googletag.cmd.push(function() {
googletag.defineSlot(window._sectionAndPostAdSettings+'/feed_1x1', [1, 1], 'div-gpt-2647793718-content-ad').addService(googletag.pubads());
googletag.enableServices()
googletag.display('div-gpt-2647793718-content-ad');
});
}
</script>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem4" data-id="4" data-reload-ads="true" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/september-is-suicide-awareness-month/its-up-to-everyone-to-use-their-voice-for-advocacy" data-basename="its-up-to-everyone-to-use-their-voice-for-advocacy" data-post-id="2647793718" data-published-at="1600996430" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
It's up to everyone to use their voice for advocacy.
</h2>
<p>You don't have to be a celebrity to use your platform for mental health advocacy. Even if you don't know how sharing <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/instagram-accounts-mental-health" target="_blank">positive mental health Instagram accounts</a> will change the world, or how reminding your friends to take a <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/mental-health-2647537152" target="_blank">mental health day</a> has the potential to be the encouragement they need — small, intentional habits do make a difference.</p><p><strong>SEE ALSO:</strong> <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/dak-prescott-leader-mental-health" target="_blank">Sorry Skip, But Dak Prescott Is Even More Of A Leader For Opening Up About His Mental Health</a></p>
</div>
<div class="rebellt-item col1" id="rebelltitem8" data-id="8" data-reload-ads="false" data-is-image="False" data-href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/september-is-suicide-awareness-month/there-are-constantly-new-voices-and-resources-being-added-to-this-conversation" data-basename="there-are-constantly-new-voices-and-resources-being-added-to-this-conversation" data-post-id="2647793718" data-published-at="1600996430" data-use-pagination="False">
<h2 data-role="headline">
There are constantly new voices (and resources) being added to this conversation.
</h2>
<p>Change takes time, but there are people all over the world who work to prevent suicide every single day. Organizations like the <a href="https://afsp.org/" target="_blank">American Foundation for Suicide Prevention</a> bring and inspiring stories to you 365 days a year. There are also a variety of <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/resources-suicidal-ideation" target="_blank">crisis hotlines</a> available, 24/7, tailored to your specific needs. </p><p>While it can be so scary to open up about vulnerable insecurities, there are people who have shared their stories about <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/what-being-suicidal-truly-means-" target="_blank">suicidal ideation</a>, <a href="https://www.theodysseyonline.com/life-after-a-failed-suicide-attempt" target="_blank">suicide attempts</a>, and the everyday battle that is mental health. You are never the only one fighting this battle. </p>
</div></p><p><em>We believe that your story is important. If you would like help sharing your mental health story, please contact Odyssey's Health and Wellness Editor at <a href="mailto:lily.moe@theodysseyonline.com">lily.moe@theodysseyonline.com</a>.</em></p><p><em><em>If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, call the </em><a href="http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/" target="_blank"><em>National Suicide Prevention Hotline</em></a><em> — 1-800-273-8255</em></em></p><div class="post-pager js-listicle-pager" data-listicle-style="" data-async_load_parameters="platform=desktop&display_ads=1&settings=%7B%22enter_url%22%3A+null%2C+%22no_post_section%22%3A+null%2C+%22ads_breaks%22%3A+%5B3%5D%2C+%22prevent_last_break_repetition%22%3A+false%2C+%22use_numeration%22%3A+false%2C+%22show_columns_on_mobile%22%3A+null%2C+%22ads_order%22%3A+%5B3%2C+3%2C+3%2C+3%2C+3%5D%2C+%22turn_into_posts%22%3A+null%2C+%22list_breaks%22%3A+null%2C+%22reorder_voting%22%3A+null%2C+%22cooldown_in_seconds%22%3A+null%2C+%22pagination_order%22%3A+null%2C+%22source%22%3A+%22engine_settings%22%2C+%22next_post_url%22%3A+null%2C+%22up_down_voting%22%3A+false%2C+%22allow_url_change%22%3A+null%2C+%22numeration_sort%22%3A+-1%2C+%22allow_url_update%22%3A+null%2C+%22use_pagination%22%3A+false%2C+%22body_text_above%22%3A+false%2C+%22use_ads%22%3A+true%2C+%22items_as_posts%22%3A+false%2C+%22multiple_answers%22%3A+null%2C+%22no_redirect%22%3A+null%2C+%22is_guest_voting_allowed%22%3A+null%2C+%22layout_type%22%3A+null%2C+%22voting_extra_fields%22%3A+null%7D">
</div>
Keep Reading...
Show less
Trending Topics
Songs About Being 17
Grey's Anatomy Quotes
Vine Quotes
4 Leaf Clover
Self Respect
Top Creators
1. Alondra, Florida Gulf Coast University
2. Jessica Schmidt, Florida Gulf Coast University
3. Madison Franz, Florida Gulf Coast University
4. Sarah Jekabsons, Albany, New York
5. Abby Margaret, University of Hawaii at Manoa