Well the closest you’re going to get to a literal definition of that is Vans’ collaboration with international space agency NASA.
That’s right, space-themed trainers will now be available at the shoe and apparel brand.
it’s a bit of an unusual mix but it works. So what can you expect from the collab?
The skateboarding shoe manufacturer is teaming up with the United States Federal Agency to create the Old Skool and Sk8-Hi MTE silhouettes.
The slick new designs will be available in all its patriotic glory, arriving in red, white and blue and white, blue and black respectively.
The Old Skool whites also come with American flags if you really wanted to up the patriotic feels. But if you’re not feeling it, they come as removable velcro patches so you can always take the flag down.
Other space exploration references are made on the new sneaker designs which also come with the traditional NASA logo.
Voyager influences are also evident on the range which includes pull tabs on the Old Skool’s tongue that reads shuttle and an astronaut boot-like midsole that matches the Sk8-Hi.
As well as high tops trainers, you can also get ‘space white’ backpacks.
You can get your hands on the new stuff on 2 November where it will be available on the Vans website, as revealed by Instagram shoe account @WTS1987 where you can also get more details about the release.
Unfortunately, it’s not clear if it will be solely available in the U.S.
A spokesperson at Vans UK told Metro.co.uk that the shoes are yet to arrive in the UK but they ‘most likely’ will in the near future, so watch out for that.
Have you watched the female-led blockbuster Ocean’s 8 that stars a bunch of high-profile actresses/singers/comediennes?
If you loved Sandra Bullock’s slick performance and Rihanna’s tech savviness, then you might want to grab a copy of the film which is now on Blu-Ray and digital downloading.
Or why not make it the theme of a day out with your friends? Because the folks at Warner Brothers have set up an Ocean’s 8 inspired brunch in London.
To celebrate the release of the blockbuster, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has teamed up with the cafe Daisy Green Collection to host a one-off brunch, on Sunday 28 October.
Launching exclusively at two of Daisy Green’s venues, Timmy Green in Victoria and Scarlett Green in Soho, London, the event will combine food with the chance to test your sleight-of-hand skills in order to win a prize.
You can order from the a la carte or bottomless brunch menu. Dig into a stack of pancakes or salmon and avocado on toast.
Inspired by the blagging and clever sleight of hand demonstrated by the heist crew in the film, you’ll be tasked to hunt down hidden gems within the venue and exchange them for a free gift.
But you’ll have to be subtle and hand it to a waiter or waitress without attracting the attention of other customers.
So it’s worth your while checking down the back of your seat or having a look to see if there is anything hidden under the table.
But be quick as spaces are limited and released on a first-come-first-served basis.
A dad has voiced his anger on Twitter after his son was bullied for wearing nail polish.
Aaron Gouveia, a father of three boys from Massachusetts, told on his Daddy Files page how his son Sam, 5, left school in tears.
He said, ‘Sam is my middle child & he’s a terror. A ‘boy’s boy’ as so many (not me) would say. He’s rough and tumble, he’s loud, he’s always dirty, loves trucks, plays sports and knee drops me from the couch. But he also loves a lot of ‘girl’ things.’
These so-called ‘girl’ things include his collection of handbags which he uses to carry things around, and wearing nail polish because he thinks it’s ‘beautiful’.
Although this is completely normal behaviour for a child to many of us, it seemed that some of the kids in Sam’s class had been taught differently.
He wore his colourful nails to kindergarten, but was called names all day, and the other children told him to take the lacquer off.
By the time his mum came to pick him up at home time he was in tears, and when he called Aaron at work his father said little Sam’s words were ‘barely decipherable through the sobs.’
He wanted to take off the polish so the other kids would stop making fun of him.
Aaron – upset and angry for Sam – said in his Twitter thread, ‘I know these kids are only in kindergarten but this toxic masculinity bullshit is LEARNED. Learned most of the time from parents. So parents, I hope you’re proud. I hope this is what you wanted. I hope you’re satisfied…
‘My wife and I spent five years successfully preaching tolerance, acceptance, and the importance of expression and your kids unraveled that in one school day. He now feels the shame you desperately want to associate with being different.’
Thankfully, the Gouveia family had plenty of encouragement and kind words for Sam to help him realise this was not his problem in the slightest.
He eventually decided to keep his bright nails after finding out that his favourite actor Chris Hemsworth also sported the look, and Aaron and Sam’s 10-year-old brother even painted their own nails in solidarity.
Be brave and shine bright, my beautiful polished boy. Know that mom and dad always have your back and if the rest of the world has a problem with your nails, they can check out my nail polish! pic.twitter.com/fvjD2IZnNQ
Hopefully Sam now knows that you can express yourself however you want and, as messages of support have poured in from across the internet, that he’s not alone.
Aaron told Metro.co.uk why he thought it was important to speak up on the issue:
‘This isn’t the first time I’ve talked about gender and toxic masculinity. Five years ago when my oldest stopped liking Frozen because a neighborhood dad told him it was a ‘girl movie,’ I wrote a blog post and lamented the box into which we too often put boys.
‘As the father of three sons (10, five and three), this is an issue that’s deeply important to me and I hit on it constantly on social media.
‘Also, as a straight, white guy with a ton of privilege, I think it’s vital to use my platform to talk about these issues in order to bring about change. The more we see boys with nail polish or in dresses or doing ballet on social media and on TV, the sooner it will become no big deal.’
He decided not to take the issue any further by talking to the school or the other kids’ parents, but he does say that Sam was overjoyed with the response to the post.
Aaron said: ‘I showed him some of the responses before I left for work this morning and he was over the moon seeing all these pictures of men wearing nail polish and sending him support.
‘He was amazed so many people loved his nails and it gave him the confidence to wear his bright red nails to school again this morning.
‘Of course, the downside is he thinks he’s famous now so he’s a little big for his britches at the moment, but thankfully he has brothers who will knock him down a few pegs if necessary.’
PMS sucks. All of it. The bloating, the cramps, the headaches, the intense mood swings – the list goes on. We’re often told exercise is the best thing to do when you have PMS, but is that true? And if so – which exercise is best?
When your stomach’s in knots and your boobs are sore – the last thing you want to do is run around.
Why would you want to leave your comfortable sofa, cosy blankets and hot water bottle for the cold, harsh glare of the gym? But experts think it could be the best thing for you.
The figures show that getting active can really improve the physical and psychological symptoms of PMS. One study, analysing young women over an eight week period, found that exercise made a ‘significant difference’ in improving PMS symptoms.
Overall, 31% of PMS symptoms were reduced over the two months, in participants who had been doing aerobic exercise.
So maybe it’s time to ditch the Netflix and ice cream, stop feeling sorry for ourselves, and get out for a run.
If you struggle with PMS, the effects can be truly debilitating. For some women, the monthly cycle of symptoms can severely disrupt their daily lives, causing them to take days off work and even damage relationships.
So it’s certainly important to get on top of your symptoms and feel as though you have coping strategies to manage the pain and improve your mood.
During this time it’s crucial that you look after your body. India Parker-Smith, a personal trainer on the training app Peach, says doing the right kind of exercise is really important.
‘During PMS – the two weeks leading up to menstruating – your body is essentially preparing for pregnancy, so you’ll be lacking in energy,’ India tells Metro.co.uk.
‘I’d suggest taking the intensity of your work outs down, try incorporating more stretching, or yoga into your fitness regime, and try avoid anything too strenuous.
‘Your body will be tired, and you may be more likely to injure yourself, so it’s a good time of the month to take a rest from your more hard-core activities.’
Which exercises are right for you?
Steady state cardio like running, cycling, hiking and power walking are perfect during PMS, and will also help regulate mood and even help reduce water retention, common problems with PMS.
Body temperature also rises during this time, which can make intense exercise less comfortable.
A lower carb, higher protein and fat diet will complement this type of exercise and since the body is less insulin-sensitive during PMS, will reduce blood sugar and
energy swings.
During your period is the time to hit those heavy weights and take all that tension out with a big workout.
Your body uses carbohydrates more efficiently now, and the extra carbs will help fuel the harder workouts.
Pollyanna Hale, fitness expert
Exercise is known for its endorphin-boosting qualities – sending happy chemicals surging through your veins. So that might be why working out helps to reduce the emotional and psychological stress of PMS.
But endorphins are only part of the story. Herbalist and period pain expert, Rosemary Umolu explains: ‘Studies have shown exercise to boost brain chemicals, causing an analgesic effect. This may help to override the irritability and moodiness that comes with PMS.
‘As cramping is sometimes caused by reduced levels of oxygen in the body, exercise stimulates circulation and encourages a healthy blood flow in the uterus, resulting in reduced cramps.’
And that’s not the only good news – once you’ve made it through PMS and your period starts, the shift in hormones causes improved pain tolerance and muscle recovery, which can all pay off in the gym.
In other words – starting your period can actually help to supercharge your workout.
‘When you’re on your period, your hormones will be at their lowest, meaning you may be able to hit PBs and lift harder,’ explains India.
‘Of course, everyone is different, but if you’re not suffering from cramps, your mensuration period is when you can be at your strongest.’
The only hurdle then, is getting off the sofa and putting your kit on – when you least feel like it.
India has some tips: ‘If you want to stay motivated during while you’re suffering from PMS, try writing down your goals, the reason for those goals, and how you’ll feel if you don’t meet them.
‘Goals are a great motivational tool to keep you on track.’
Mascara is one of the most indispensable pieces of makeup. We simply couldn’t be without it.
Even Ancient Egyptians went to great lengths to create their own kohl-concoction to apply to their lashes, to get thicker, blacker and longer eyelashes.
Let’s face it, mascara has come a long way since. But there a few tips and tricks on how to pump up the volume and get the best out of your mascara and your natural eyelashes.
Eyelash curlers don’t get enough love. Sure, they’re a little terrifying (who hasn’t accidentally caught their eyelid?), but they instantly lift, curl and make your eyes look bigger.
As with most beauty tools, not all eyelash curlers are created equal. But these multi award-winning eyelash curlers from SHU UEMURA, have a gentle arc and silicone pad that won’t break your lashes.
To use, squeeze and hold the eyelash curler at the base of your upper lashes for a few seconds and then pump it a few times as you work your way towards the tips.
Applying eye pencil to the upper waterline is our favourite trick in the book to help achieve the appearance of really thick, dense lashes.
One pencil that doesn’t transfer from the top to the bottom waterline, is Charlotte Tilbury’s Rock ‘N’ Kohl in Babarella Brown. It’s also super creamy, making it awesome for easy waterline application.
Just remember not to go to far into the inner corners, as this may make you eyes appear beady.
This thickening mascara from Maybelline builds beautifully, plus the price is right.
Applying mascara is pretty self-explanatory, but to get the most out of your mascara start at the outer corner and wiggle the wand back and forth and right into the base of the lash line.
A cancer survivor who risked her illness returning to try and get pregnant, has fulfilled her dream of becoming a mother.
Meghan Koziel, 29, from Pennsylvania, chose to halt the hormone suppression medication she was taking for her cancer so that she could conceive and carry her baby.
The drugs reduced the risk of Meghan’s cancer returning, without it, there was a 40% chance it would come back. But Meghan was desperate for a child and thought the risk was worth it.
‘I always dreamed of being a mum, so we took a risky decision to try and hoped it all turned out well,’ explains Meghan.
‘If not, we would be fighting the disease again. If the surgeon had left one cancer cell in the body, the hormones could have caused it to spread.’
Meghan first discovered a lump when she was 25, but doctors dismissed it because she was so young and had no family history of cancer.
When the lump continued to grow, she got a second opinion and following an ultrasound, mammogram and biopsy, it was confirmed that she had breast cancer.
‘When I was diagnosed it felt like my life was falling from under my feet,’ says Meghan.
‘I was told the bad news was that I had cancer, but the good that it could be treatable. Being diagnosed so young, you think you are going to die, but the reality is that there is a lot of science and tech that help many people survive.’
It was this positive attitude that led Meghan to her decision to push on with her pregnancy, despite the risks. When her baby girl was born, Meghan says it was a dream come true.
‘As soon as they placed her onto me, my husband and I were crying. I say all the time that she is our little miracle baby. We never thought we would have a child naturally and so are blessed.
‘We are so thankful, as a many people are not granted this opportunity, it definitely makes all the sleepless nights worth it.’
They named their daughter, Kendra Jane, after their oncologist, Dr. Jane Raymond. The couple say they are discussing the possibility of more kids in the future, if doctors say it’s possible.
‘We had three embryos and seven eggs frozen, as chemotherapy can take away fertility,’ explains Meghan.
‘The risk is that the ovaries can be so damaged that they can’t carry a child.
‘My oncologist doesn’t believe that cancer should take away the option for a woman to become a mom, and from day one she encouraged me to follow my dreams.
‘For me, ever since beginning my journey I didn’t want cancer to take anything else away from me.
‘I would rather try for a child or any other goal, than feel like my life is being stopped waiting in fear of the cancer returning.’
But now it’s being used in a very different way – and it’s very NSFW.
The man who made the oral sex stimulation device Autoblow, has announced the new version will have AI technology to replicate human techniques.
The makers claim it is the ‘first sex toy to use artificial intelligence to enhance the realism of a solo sexual experience’.
Founder Brian Sloan launched the original Autoblow 2 three years ago but he claims this device is very different.
‘Virtually every other male sex toy that strokes, including our own Autoblow 2, strokes only in complete strokes from the top to the bottom of the penis.
‘But full top to bottom stroking of the penis is only one of many possible oral sex techniques.
‘The new Autoblow’s techniques are far more advanced,’ he said.
The team who built it listened to feedback from 200,000 Autoblow 2 owners and analysed 8,333 minutes of oral sex videos to try to recreate the movements carried out by humans.
They used the data to create 10 different modes including the ‘full stroke’, ‘intense edge’, ‘fast edge’, ‘slow and fast combo’, ‘top stroke’, ‘bottom stroke’, ‘top and bottom stroke’ and two types of ‘masterstroke’.
The 10th mode is the enhanced AI experience that uses a variety of techniques and pauses so the experience is different every time.
The device is currently being funded by an Indiegogo page and to receive one, you can pay $129 (£99) – a reduction on the normal price of $249 (£191)
But even if you pledge now, you won’t receive the device until May 2019.
Brian told Metro.co.uk: ‘We sold 200,000 of the version 2 and our customers were very vocal in telling us what they wanted improved in regards to the feeling they receive while using it.
‘So I view myself just as a conduit of commerce; my job is to give men what they want. This is it.
‘The reaction is great so far, we sold about $10,000 dollars per day that the Indiegogo campaign has been online and now that the media has started to learn about what we are doing, we anticipate thesales will increase.
‘Men have already emailed me to tell me they appreciate our efforts in “solving their problems” as one guy put it.
‘The Autoblow, like the Iphone, is a work in progress. I will continue to improve it for the rest of my life.’
A five month-old baby boy has died of a suspected heart attack after reportedly being starved by his parents.
Sir D Neal died Friday after being rushed to hospital, with his mother Secoya McNeary and father Sir Tramane Neal currently being held on child neglect charges.
Afterwards, Sir D’s starving twin brother was discovered at the family’s apartment in Oklahoma by officials.
The baby, who was also described as being severely malnourished, has been placed in state custody and is receiving medical treatment.
According to NewsOk, medical examiners have yet to determine what killed Sir D.
A Facebook page that appears to belong to McNeary describes her job as ‘Being a Mommy Is a Full Time Job but Its the Best Job Ever and I Wouldnt Trade It for Anything.’
And last month, she wrote a status which read: ‘I WAS RAISED TO CLEAN AS YOU COOK AND NEVER COOK IN A DIRTY KITCHEN…NOW HOW MANY OF Y’ALL CAN STEAL THIS.’
She announed that she was in a relationship last month, with her partner Sir Tramane’s page describing him as a waste management worker.
His parents have been held in Oklahoma County Jail on $101,000 bond each.
Long gone are the days of being too scared to walk into an Ann Summers store or having a cheeky gander at sex toys on a private tab online.
People are enjoying and talking about using vibrators, dildos, cock rings, and fleshlights more and more. The pleasure devices are even available at Poundland stores.
Now, Sainsbury’s are in on the act – the supermarket is launching a range of toys ‘for customers looking to spice up their love lives’.
The decision to sell toys comes after their research showed one in three Brits are not satisfied with their sex lives.
The Sainsbury’s Living Well Index revealed that sex lives and sleep are top indicators of a person’s general wellbeing.
To ‘boost the nation’s sense of wellbeing’, Sainsbury’s is offering customers a choice of three vibrators: the Rose Gold Bullet (£8.00), Rose Blush Bullet (£12.00) and the Aura Silver Vibrator and Massager (£15.00).
They are being rolled out to almost 500 stores in the UK from today, so you can expect to see them at your local store soon.
By 4 November, they should be ready to purchase in all 486 shops.
Sainsbury’s will monitor sales and customer feedback closely in the next six months to see if the range should be extended in the future.
‘We are always on the lookout for new opportunities to help our customers live well for less and they’ve told us that sexual wellbeing is an area they would like to see more choice in,’ said Paul Mills-Hicks, Food Commercial Director at Sainsbury’s.
‘Our Living Well Index clearly shows this is an important area for customers’ overall well-being. By introducing a new range at affordable prices, we hope to give customers the option to buy quickly and conveniently in an environment they feel comfortable with.’
The new Index also shows some significant decreases in people’s perceived well-being, particularly in the relationships and social connections categories.
The most notable relationship decrease was in how respondents viewed their support networks, with fewer people believing they still had a strong connection with people they relied on.
At least you can numb the pain with some of these toys, even if for a few minutes, or seconds.
A little boy born with no skull has defied the odds of doctors who said he wouldn’t survive outside the womb to celebrate his first birthday.
Owen Masterson turned one last month, despite predictions he would die shortly after being born without any type of bone above his ears or eyebrows.
His parents Tom and Jessie Masterson were advised to terminate the pregnancy, but chose not to for religious reasons, and were overjoyed when Owen was born alive and kicking.
The youngster has Acalvaria, a very rare condition whose sufferers brains are only protected by a layer of skin.
Only around 10 babies have survived for more than a few hours after being born with it.
Owen cannot move around, and does not like wearing any type of helmet or head protection.
But despite the severity of Owen’s condition, his mom and dad say the toddler is ‘perfect from his neck down,’ and that his brain is developing.
Doctors have told them that he can see things if they are up close.
Owen is also able to smile and laugh when he is happy.
Owen’s dad Tom told the Springfield News-Leader: ‘We don’t view this as some tragic accident that is just awful.
‘For whatever reason, this is what we get to walk through and experience.
‘This is a season of life that we are going to get to be experiencing right now. Life is just full of that.’
Tom, an assistant school principal, recalled how he passed out on first hearing that his unborn son did not have a skull.
He and Jessie accept that they do not know what Owen’s long term prospects are.
But the couple, who are also parents to an adopted two year-old girl, say that doctors now refuse to offer a prognosis after Owen’s life expectancy far exceeded their expectations.
Jessica, who works as a speech therapist added added: ‘It’s definitely challenging, but I wouldn’t change him.
‘I love him the way he is.’
A post on Facebook group On Angels’ Wings, which takes free photos of terminally ill children, read: ‘Doctors said he wouldn’t live a day, but here sweet Owen is – the brave little warrior – now a year old!
‘He’s a miracle and defying all the odds. OAW is honored to be a part of his journey!’
Polio has been in the backdrop and the shadow of my whole life – it has had an impact on everything I have done. As a Unicef UK supporter and someone who contracted the disease as a child, I understand first-hand how devastating it can be.
While the world saw the lowest case count of wild polio in history in 2017 (just 22 cases – a reduction of over 99% since 1988), it has continued into 2018, and eradication is facing key challenges.
Going into peak season, there have been 18 cases of polio so far this year, in addition to ongoing outbreaks and areas where children remain out of reach.
We are at the finishing line – but there’s vital work still to be done. As long as polio exists anywhere, it is a threat to children everywhere.
I was born in Lagos, Nigeria and contracted the disease at just 15 months old. It caused paralysis in the left side of my body and left me unable to use my left leg.
My parents knew it would be too hard to bring up a disabled child in Nigeria so they saved up to bring us over to the UK.
However at the time, they could not afford to bring my sister, so in effect Polio not only left me disabled, but it broke up my family as I didn’t see her again for 10 years.
It played a huge part in my psyche as I grew up, because I was aware of the massive sacrifice my parents had made for me.
I want to make sure no other child has to go through this.
I will never forget the story of Afia* one of over 70,000 committed polio workers supported by Unicef in Afghanistan. Last month, she and thousands of her colleagues vaccinated 9.9million children and educated thousands of parents about vaccination across the country.
She starts her day at 7am and finishes 10 hours later.
Her job is very important to protect all children. Afghanistan is just one of three countries – the others are Nigeria and Pakistan – that have continuously had cases of polio.
Her job truly makes a difference, especially as women play a critical role in vaccinating children who might otherwise miss out.
Culturally, male vaccinators are unable to enter households to administer vaccine, causing difficulties if young children are asleep or playing inside.
Women vaccinators’ freedom to enter homes and give the vaccine to every child is one reason female polio workers are so critical.
There are many faces of the polio eradication effort – from parents who demand the vaccine, to donors who commit the funds necessary to finance these critical activities. Each of these groups plays a key role in achieving the incredible progress made to date.
Big organisations have got involved too, raising millions.
To end polio for good, we must take bold steps in this challenging last mile of eradication. We need the political and financial commitment to reach every last child.
Strengthening routine immunisation and surveillance will be critical to achieving eradication, and will also deliver wide-ranging benefits to health systems serving children around the world.
Smallpox has been successfully wiped out. A worldwide effort can ensure polio is the second disease to be eradicated.
Most importantly, we must ensure that no child – or parent – has to fear the paralysis the virus causes ever again.
We must get those 18 cases to zero and keep it there – let us make sure we were a part of the generation that made a difference.
*name changed
Unicef have partnered with easyJet in the fight against polio, with over 25 million children vaccinated around the world so far. To donate click here: www.unicef.org.uk
The British Fashion Council has unveiled the nominees for this year’s Fashion Awards, and the popularity of Gucci shows no signs of slowing down.
The awards, which will take place on 10 December at the Royal Albert Hall, will celebrate the best of British and global fashion talent.
A voting body of 2,000 key members of the fashion industry, from 32 countries, have decided the nominations for the ten categories.
At the top of the pile alongside Gucci is Burberry, with three nominations under the new creative direction of Riccardo Tisci. Jonathan Anderson who heads up Loewe also features in three categories.
British Designer of the Year for Womenswear will be hotly contested. Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy, famed for designing Meghan Markle’s wedding dress, will be up against Victoria Beckham and Roksanda Ilinčić for ROKSANDA.
The Urban Luxe category sees cult brand Supreme take on Palace and Off-White. Londoner Adwoa Aboah will face Bella Hadid and Winnie Harlow in the Model of the Year category.
The star-studded ceremony at the end of the year will boast 4,000 guests, and is sure to look incredible as Swarovski is the principal partner of the event.
It’s been a full nine years since Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows put a full-stop on J.K Rowling’s cultural
Though that doesn’t mean time has diminished the intensity of feeling it still inspires.
Just look at exhibit a- this new range of Potterhead pajamas designed to fit the whole family, the brainchild of ubiquitous American retailer Target.
It’s all just good, unconsciously corny fun, and a nice addition to any marathon binge watching plans you might have rustled up for the long, dank winter months.
You should find things quite cosy enough- with the set including a grey top with blue long sleeves and the pretty dubious slogan ‘I solemnly swear that I am up to no good’ in unmissable red font.
Which, as every HP fan worth their butter beer knows, is the secret message you need to activate the Marauders’ Map, which takes you around every nook and cranny of Hogwarts.
Search far and low, it’s doubtful you’ll find another set that pays quite the same fidelity to Potter lore- with navy blue bottoms patterned with the Hogwarts crest, Harry’s iconic round glasses and the famous lightening bolt scar, making them the ultimate Harry Potter nightwear.
They’ve come sanctified with the fans seal of approval, with glowing customer reviews averaging five stars on Amazon. Which tells you all you need to know, really.
Thankfully, Target also ship to the UK, so get scrolling here if that’s your thing. Prices start at £10.
Millennials have been labelled as everything, from snowflakes to hipsters to avocado obsessed work-shirkers.
While 20-and-30-somethings may find it easier to brush off these comments, one that hurts a lot of us a bit more is ‘the boomerang generation’.
This catchy name refers to the group of us that have – for whatever reason – had to move back in to our parents’ homes, and it’s a sore spot because there’s truth in it.
One study found that 26% of people aged 20 to 34 still live at home, with the ONS hinting that it may be to do with rising rental costs and deposits.
It’s not nice being in your twenties and experiencing ‘failure to launch’, but that’s where plenty of us find ourselves, regardless of whether we have jobs and partners and high thread count bedding that we wash once a week.
I’m currently a bonafide boomerang, but with one crucial difference: I went a generation further back and moved in with my nan and granddad.
It wasn’t a conscious decision, and came about after a bit of a meltdown.
Damp was dripping down my walls, everything I owned smelled mouldy despite washing and washing, and none of the windows in my flat opened.
My boyfriend and I were planning on moving in together soon, but with these squalid shared digs costing me hundreds every month, even a deposit for a rented place wasn’t materialising.
I put all my stuff in bin bags and decided I had to leave, heading down to the commuter belt to my grandparents’ house.
Now that their seven children were long moved out they had plenty of room. My mum and dad live in Scotland which isn’t really viable when it comes to me, y’know, having a job in journalism based in London.
They were happy to have me, and I pay them rent each week to cover the bills. They are pensioners, after all, and I’m not a total monster.
I do find myself somewhat embarrassed telling people I’m living with my nan and granddad. There certainly aren’t any impromptu pub trips and I watch a lot of Emmerdale now.
That said, they’re two of the best housemates I’ve ever had, and I truly recommend that struggling young people have a stint with their older relatives if they can.
From a practical perspective, it’s obviously beneficial. Although I pay for my travel and for the majority of my own food, I’m now able to put money away so I can afford something better than a mould-ridden hole when I do move out.
There’s always someone to collect a parcel if necessary, the house is always lovely and warm, and good old Barry and Shirley never run out of butter or milk so I can always pinch a bit.
The emotional side for me by far outweighs this, though.
I’d been used to coming home to my own company, making myself some food, then eating it in my room and not coming out except to wash my dishes.
My mental health often suffered, afflicted with money worries and a general dissatisfaction with the fact I was working so hard with nothing to show for it.
I’d go out multiple nights a week, seeing friends or my boyfriend, but still feel cripplingly lonely as soon as I was back.
That’s before we even get to the phone calls where I’d cry to my mum north of the border about how much I missed just doing ‘normal’ things with a family.
Loneliness is often considered to be something that mostly afflicts the elderly, but a study this year found that up to 31% of my generation feel alone, isolated or lacking in companionship some of the time.
Moving in with elderly relatives is a part-way solution to the lonely feelings felt on either side of the boomer/millennial divide.
It’s incredible what a difference it makes having someone say a warm hello to you as you walk in the door.
We sit and chat about how they met each other, laugh at funny stories from Christmases past, and watch the telly while my nan admonishes whoever is annoying her this time around (at the moment it’s Seann Walsh and Lewis Hamilton).
Hearing my granddad sigh ‘cor blimey’ at the state of the world during each news segment makes me feel less alone. I’m part of something here, and we’re in it together.
I can help them with things, too, which I know they’re grateful for.
We all went to Ikea, and I dutifully put together a Malm for them, which would be impossible for my nan who struggles with her mobility.
Plus, I can act as something of a translator when nan’s hearing aid is playing up and granddad’s memory’s failing him. I interpret what he wants to say to her clearly, and it saves a lot of shouting.
There’s a lot to be said for being needed and wanted by family (or familial figures) and I do believe part of the reason why we’re all so sad is because we’re in something of a rat race, unable to find that sort of authenticity.
Spending our lives in grey office blocks and soulless bars is no way to live. It’s time we took a little inspiration from our elders (even if we are annoyed at them for screwing up the housing market and voting for Brexit).
It’s not an option for everyone, but to those that can, and are feeling trapped, homesick, financially lost – or who just want a big cuddle – consider living with your gran and/or gramps for a while.
No-one cooks like them, and no-one will give you more praise for helping them hoover the stairs.
Spending precious time with family nourishes your soul in ways that a green juice or bikram yoga session never could.
It’s like a mediation retreat, but with Strictly Come Dancing, doilies, and the smell of talcum powder.
London lawyer Diana D’Aloisio is 59 years old and has decided to start a new career as a model.
She wants to show the fashion industry that women over the age of 30 exist.
Fighting an industry that she says perpetuates ageism, Diana wants fashion brands to know they’re missing out on a valuable market.
There are now around 20 million over 55s in the UK – one in three of the population. Over 50s already account for about 47% of all UK consumer spending, so brands ignore mature customers at their own peril.
Diana says that modelling for her is the ‘most visible way to break down the age barrier’.
She is now working with charities such as Age UK and will be donating money that she earns from her modelling gigs to them.
‘From the models on the catwalk to the models in the fashion features and adverts, you’d be forgiven for thinking that clothes are only designed for teenagers and people in their twenties. It’s as if women my age aren’t meant to wear fashion clothes,’ she tells Metro.co.uk.
‘The fashion and beauty industries put people on the scrap heap when they start to age after we have invested as loyal customers for all those years.
‘I love fashion and love to dress up and make people feel good. I want to make the point that age doesn’t matter when it comes to modelling. I want to make people feel that if I can wear these clothes so can they.’
After being turned down by countless modelling agencies, Diana decided her best bet was to turn to social media and started an Instagram page where she poses in her favourite outfits and tries to give tips to her audience on dressing at any age.
Since setting up her page, she finally got a break modelling for a couple of small brands. However, She still hasn’t had any interest from any of the high street retailers she contacted.
‘We have to start somewhere to tackle ageism,’ she adds, ‘and in the field of fashion and beauty where women become invisible after a certain age, it’s especially important.
‘We feel that these shops are saying you have no value after a certain age.
‘I’m inviting clothing brands to work with us to welcome older women back, make us feel wanted, and the first step is to stop erasing women my age from your models and advertising.’
‘In other cultures ageing is celebrated,’ she adds. ‘In Japan, it is celebrated as your second childhood. And so it should be.’
They say pregnant women glow during their second trimester – and Meghan Markle is certainly living up to the old wives’ tale on the royal tour in Australia.
The Duchess of Sussex has showcased a string of stylish outfits over the course of their first week Down Under, changing from beach wear to city chic to ballgown and diamonds.
And, to the delight of royal fans, her baby bump can be seen underneath her outfits, making them all the more exciting to marvel over.
Harry and Meghan are currently on their first overseas official tour as husband and wife, taking in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga, and Meghan has been sailing through it in a variety of stylish and plain gorgeous outfits.
Oh to be a Duchess.
In fact, it’s getting us ridiculously excited about Meghan’s maternity wardrobe.
To help us all keep track and refer back to these joyous and stylish times, we’ll be updating this post with every outfit Meghan wears during her trip to Australia. Buckle in.
DAY ONE:
Meghan wears a white Karen Gee dress at Admirality House
For a visit to the official Sydney residence of the Governor-General of Australia, Peter Cosgrove, and Lady Cosgrove – and her first appearance since announcing her pregnancy – Meghan opted for a sleek white shift dress by Australian designer Karen Gee.
Meghan completed her look with Stuart Weitzman nude suede pumps.
Meghan wears a Brandon Maxwell khaki shirt dress for an afternoon reception
Meghan did a quick change for the afternoon reception at Admiralty House, swapping her white shift for a khaki shirt dress by Brandon Maxwell.
Brandon Maxwell is a favourite of Meghan – she previously wore their design, a yellow shift dress, at the Commonwealth Youth Event in July.
Just like the white shift, the green khaki dress has already sold out, but we know it cost £1,728. Whew.
The Duchess accessorised the dress with Dior nude heels and jewellery previously owned by Princess Diana – a bracelet and butterfly earrings.
DAY TWO:
Meghan goes casual for a visit to Mountain View Farm in Dubbo
For a rainy visit to the Mountain View Farm in Dubbo, the Duchess of Sussex kept things casual in a shirt, blazer, and jeans.
The blazer is the creation of Meghan’s pal Serena Williams, from the tennis champion’s Boss collection. It features a red and blue check, has an oversized fit, and costs $145 (£110). Naturally it has already sold out.
Her bag is £850 by Gucci, her navy shoes are Manolo Blahnik, and she’s wearing a gold cuff bracelet by Shaun Leane.
Those necklaces you can spot were a gift from some children.
Then swaps to a Club Monaco dress and flats for a trip to the beach
Honestly, if the Duchess of Sussex had gone to the beach in Manolo Blahniks we would have suspected she’s super-human, so we’re glad she made a quick change to flats.
While Meghan kept on her trench coats, bag, and jewellery from earlier in the day, for a visit to the beach she swapped her navy dress for a £325 black shift by Club Monaco and traded in heels for the same flats she wore when she arrived in Australia; Rothy’s The Point Black Flats.
Could this mean ballet-style flats are making a comeback? We hope so.
DAY FOUR:
Meghan wears a striped Martin Grant maxi dress to Bondi Beach
Keeping with the beach theme, Meghan wore a striped maxi sundress by Martin Grant – an Australian label – for day four of the royal tour.
She added a bespoke Dior clutch bag and Stuart Weitzman ‘Legend’ suede heels in Haze Beige, which cost £280. She had worn these the day before during her time in Sydney.
DAY SEVEN:
After taking Sunday off to relax, Meghan gets back to business in a sharp blazer
On Monday, Meghan attended a reception hosted by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, wearing a white L’Agence pinstripe blazer, which costs £510, over a black turtleneck.
As they arriving in Fiji, Meghan stepped off the plane wearing a pearl white dress by Zimmerman, with a matching hat by Stephen Jones.
The shoes were her trusty Aquazzura ‘Denzure’ black suede bow pumps, which cost £490, while the earrings were given to her as a gift by Queen Elizabeth II and the bracelet was a gift from the Prince of Wales.
She teamed her outfit with a black Anna straw clutch by Kayu, which sells for £173.
And then gets dressed up for an evening ball
Meghan later switched into a stunning blue SAFiYAA dress for a state dinner hosted by the president of the South Pacific nation Jioji Konrote at the Grand Pacific Hotel.
She teamed the dress – which is considered to be her take on ‘Fijan blue’ as a nod to the state – with diamond earrings and a very clear view of her baby bump.
DAY TEN:
Meghan wears a sea-shell and pom pom adorned dress to meet students in Fiji.
For their second day in Fiji, Meghan kept things summery in a pretty printed wrap dress by Figue.
The dress featured pom-poms and seashells on the skirt with a ruffled hem.
If you fancy Meghan’s dress for your own outings to far away sun, you can pick one up for $1,495 (£1,150).
On her feet, Meghan wore her Castañer espadrille wedges, costing £90, which she wore earlier on in the trip when they headed to Bondi Beach.
She also wore an oversized clutch bag which was worn by local women, making that the most expensive outfit on the list as you’ll have to pay for air fare to Fiji to pick one up yourself.
How about this for a fulfillment of a childhood dream.
Feel like a ferris wheel in your driveway? Fancy adding a merry-go-round to the living room of your Zone 4 houseshare?
Well look no further. An entire amusement park is going up for auction in Colorado, this very Thursday.
The Heritage Square Amusement Park in Golden closed on 1 July after a protracted period of financial trouble, a sad full-stop on 47 years of history.
Norton Auctioneers have since been commissioned to sell the remaining assets, with everything set to be sold off to the highest bidder, with no minimum prices or reserves on the table.
How many auctions get to boast a zip line, arcade machines, go karts, restaurant equipment, bins, tables and benches?
Particular highlights include a 1963 Sellner Tilt A Whirl, a 1966 Eli Scrambler and a 1980 Chance T.M. Space Shuttle.
In addition, the auctioneers brochure proudly lists a ‘1993 spinning teacup ride’, as well as ‘nine swan paddle boats—eight white, one black’.
Though buyers are recommended to bring a nice wad of ready money, with the preference for cash payment, in full on the day.
They’re at least set to offer transportation for the biggest items- so there’s no need to try and stuff a Ferris wheel into an UberXL.
Still, sad times for the residents set to be deprived of all that good natured fun on their doorstep.
But Alan Bader, the amusement park’s operator of 20 years, told Atlas Obscura about the things that will endure, like ‘the history of Heritage Square [that] will be kept alive by the memories and the pictures that cannot be taken away’.
As if Instagram wasn’t already a black hole for elitism and showing off, a new trend has emerged to make it worse.
The Flaunt Your Wealth challenge has got #influencers across the world throwing their expensive belongings on the floor in the name of content.
The challenge originally started out in Russia, and was known as the Falling Stars Challenge.
A well-known DJ posted a picture of himself pretending to fall out of a private jet, which sparked posts of people ‘falling’ from sports cars, yachts, and expensive hotel lobbies.
Then things really amped up, with influencers spreading out their most pricey branded goods around them for the photo opportunity.
Some have simply gone for good old cash money notes, while others are flexing with Chanel bags, bottles of vintage champagne, and even luxury electric toothbrushes.
Chinese social networking site Weibo seems to be the place for the challenge, where more than a million posts appeared under the heading.
It hasn’t really spread to the UK just yet, although that might be because a Hong Kong backdrop is slightly more atmospheric than the Scunthorpe skyline.
There’s really no reason at all to do the challenge, other than to prove you can afford the things in your picture.
It’s a narcissist’s dream, and likely will only extend to those Insta-personalities that don’t exist in ‘real life’.
Although, check out your social feeds on Christmas morning and you’ll see plenty of similar spectacles of exhibitionism.
You only need to take a walk down a busy road or on a beach to see how much litter is scattered around.
Blogger Dominique McCan was on a Malaysian beach when she decided to do a group clean up.
After 30 minutes she and her family had managed to find over a dozen plastic bags in one small area as well as other items thrown away.
Using what she picked up, she made a sculpture of a Hawksbill Turtle – a critically endangered animal to show the cost of littering on our environment.
So Dominque began #projectlittercritter on Instagram, a hashtag which has seen people around the world gather rubbish and create artwork out of it.
In this way, it’s caused people to clean up their public streets, beaches, and parks.
‘Littering is a huge problem,’ Dominique told Bored Panda. ‘Not only does it threaten and cost the environment dearly, but it’s also costing us too – last year, the local authorities spent £682 million just to keep our streets clean.
‘So I think we can all agree that as a society, we need to not only reduce the amount of waste we produce, we also need to ensure that it’s disposed of correctly.
‘We all see litter – it’s everywhere, so how can we not – but quite often we see it as someone else’s problem – we didn’t drop it, so we don’t have to pick it up.
‘But, once it’s there lying on the floor, blowing around our streets, into our forests, onto our beaches, and into our seas, it is our responsibility. It’s our planet and we should all be working together to clean it up.’
Dominque, a content creator and blogger, has so far created a dolphin, badger, fox, rabbit, and more out of the things she’s found.
Others around the world have joined in, creating octopuses, dolphins, spiders and birds.
Whether or not you make art out of it, we should all try to pick up litter. It might not be our rubbish, but it is our planet.