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Meet Colugo, the lightest and most compact stroller I've ever used — and I've gone through a lot of strollers

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Colugo

  • The Colugo Compact Stroller weighs only 60 pounds yet can support a kid weighing as much as 55 pounds, so you can use it for years as your child grows.
  • The stroller folds down with just one hand and packs away into a backpack for easy transport or storage.
  • Colugo offers a 100-day, risk-free trial during which any of their products can be returned for a full refund.

Shopping for a stroller kind of... how should I put this... it kind of sucks.

There are so many options on the market these days that the process is easily overwhelming, and most halfway decent strollers cost hundreds of dollars. Your baby stroller is no place to go cheap; you'll depend on the thing during travel, shopping, outings, visits to friends and family, and as a tool to give yourself a few minutes of sanity as your child sleeps and you stroll.

Even if you have identified a trusted brand and you're ready to shell out a few hundred bucks on your new baby conveyance device, which type of stroller should you choose? An umbrella stroller? A jogger? A convertible car seat thingy? Ah, if only there was a stroller small enough for use in the city or during travel, sturdy enough for years of use with growing kids, and affordable enough to prevent sticker shock.

Ok, I set things up painfully obviously, so this is no big reveal, but guess what? There is. And if you haven't heard of it yet, that's because it's the new kid on the block.

The Colugo brand was launched by a dad named Ted Iobst who found himself entirely frustrated during the gear-shopping process when his first kid was born. It being the 21st century, shopping for things from eyeglasses to meal kits to mattresses is only supposed to take a few quick clicks, and the goods delivered are supposed to be, well, good. Ted found that the process of researching and procuring baby gear was, by and large, anything but quick or efficient, and that was especially true when it came to finding a stroller.

Like a damn fine American should, instead of complaining then rolling over and hitting the proverbial snooze button, instead Ted formed a new company dedicated to selling affordable, reliable baby gear. And with a painless, simple shopping process, too.

Colugo sells one stroller (that comes in a few different colorways), one baby carrier (same deal), and a few accessories. Pick the look you like, buy a product, and it shows up in the mail. If you're unhappy with said product for any reason, send it back within 100 days for a full refund. End of story, commerce wise.

While the Colugo lineup will expand in coming years and the backpack, carrier, and accessories are all high quality and worthy of coverage in their own right, it's the Colugo Compact Stroller that takes center stage. At $285 this Compact isn't cheap, but when you use the stroller in person, you'll quickly agree that nothing about its construction is cheap, either.

Despite weighing in at a mere 16 pounds, the stroller feels solid and handles itself well, whether deftly navigating the aisles of the grocery store or trundling down a city sidewalk. A decent-sized storage area underneath the seat can hold a diaper bag, some groceries, or the makings of a picnic lunch, while the seat itself can hold a baby six months or older, or a kid who weighs as much as 55 pounds — a size most kids don't hit until well after their fifth birthday.

But the real highlight here is how amazingly compact this stroller becomes when folded down — a process that you can complete with one hand in about two seconds, by the way.

Once collapsed, you can tuck the Colugo Compact Stroller into a backpack (which comes included) that is comfortable enough for hours of wear and that will fit in the overhead bin of an airplane, into the trunk of any car, and that won't have fellow subway or bus passengers looking askance at you as you lumber your way down an aisle.

Long story short: This ultra-compact and -lightweight stroller could well be the only stroller many families need. That's worth my $285 any day.

Buy The Compact Stroller for $285 from Colugo

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I splurged on an 8-day, $3,000 trip to Nigeria for myself over the holidays, and it was worth every penny

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adrienne jordan Nigeria

  • Sometimes, the best recipient of a holiday spending splurge is yourself.
  • Here, author Adrienne Jordan details how she spent $2,881 on an eight-day trip to Nigeria.
  • It was Jordan's first time away from her family over the holidays, but she says the experience was "more than worth it."

 

In my first time away from family for the holidays, I spent $2,881 in order to tour the birthplace of my childhood best friend. Being a world traveler, I wanted to see what it was like to travel to a foreign country during the holidays to experience another culture’s celebration.

I spent eight days in Nigeria, split between the bustling city of Lagos and the smaller Imo State.

Thesplurge was more than worth it, as I was able to experience Africa's most populous country; tour local markets, like the Balogun market; and eat local food, from the popular jollof rice to fried yams.

Here's how Ispent that $2,881 in traveling to Nigeria:

1. I spent $1,535 on roundtrip tickets from JFK to Lagos, Nigeria

lagos nigeriaThe Christmas holiday is an expensive time of the year to visit Nigeria because of the many Nigerian expats and Nigerian-Americans looking to visit home. A Kenya Airways flight was the least expensive route, and it included a three-hour layover in Nairobi.

Read more:I quit my corporate job and bought a one-way ticket to travel the world

2. Ubers came out to around $100

A typical one-way Uber trip within Lagos cost between $5 and $10 depending on the distance. The total cost came out to around $100 over a five-night stay.

3. The hotel cost $170 per night for five nights

adrienne jordan nigeriaThe 70-room Radisson Blu Anchorage on Victoria Island is located in one of the touristy areas of Lagos. The property is outfitted with modern walk-in showers with soak-in tubs, floor to ceiling mirrors, and a settee next to the window for catching views of the palm trees. While the price was steep, the hotel offers room and board, so the $170 per night rate included breakfast.

4. Food was around $20 a day

Restaurant meals had an average cost of $12, and I was lucky enough to be hosted by some friends and family in their homes, which usually also included a meal. Typical Nigerian cuisine consisted of jollof rice, yams (fried or boiled), Ora soup (fish and Ora leaves), and egg sauce (eggs and tomato-like omelet) and plantains for breakfast.

5. I took a $200 roundtrip flight from Lagos to Owerri

adrienne jordan nigeriaIn order to tour a slower-paced city (since Lagos is the most populous city in Africa), I flew into the eastern part of Nigeria via Owerri Airport. I went to Abia State, which is next door to Imo State, where I flew in. The biggest attractions are visiting the local produce markets and hailing a Keke (a Nigerian Tuk Tuk) in order to tour the Abia State and see the everyday life of the Igbo people. There are also masquerade festivals in different towns around the holiday season.

6. I spent $30 on wax fabric at the Balogun market and $40 for sewing

The Balogun Market in Lagos is one of Africa's busiest markets, which was an experience in itself and involved weaving through the throngs of people and dodging the vehicular traffic. African wax fabric comes in thousands of patterns and in varied, vibrant colors. As a souvenir, I picked out an African fabric at the market and had a local Yoruba woman in Lagos sew a dress and romper for me.

7. I spent $19 on hair braiding

Getting your hair braided for $19 is a very reasonable price. For comparison, U.S. prices can soar between $100 and $300, depending on the style. This was one of the great deals I received in Lekki area of Lagos.

Read more:3 reasons TSA Precheck isn't worth your money

8. I spent $7 as an entrance fee to the Lekki Conservation Center

lekki conservation center nigeriaThe longest canopy walk in Africa is located at the Lekki Conservation Center. You walk through a reconstructed nature trail that was donated by Chevron Nigeria Limited. As you walk through the designated trail, you are greeted by Mona monkeys in the trees, some with their babies, and other wildlife like tortoises and Maxwell's duikers.

My takeaway

West African culture is rich and lively, and visiting Nigeria provides a great opportunity to experience the Black diaspora from the Mother Country. I would recommend a visit to Nigeria, especially going as I did with friends or family familiar with the customs and geography for a more seamless travel experience.

SEE ALSO: 7 unusual status symbols from around the US

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NOW WATCH: History of the Christmas tree: Evergreens were sacred to ancient Egyptians. Then people started decorating them.

This $130 handheld car vacuum makes cleaning up messes in hard-to-reach places a snap

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Bissel cordless vacuum

  • There's no beating your standard upright vacuum cleaner when it comes to suction power and dirt-holding capacity.
  • However, cordless handheld vacuums are indispensable when you want to get where upright units have trouble, such as stairs and cars.
  • The Bissell Cordless Hand and Car Vacuum excels because it can run for about 20 minutes on a single charge, has powerful suction, and is light enough that you can use it without tiring out your arm.
  • Though it's expensive (currently $127.49 on Amazon), it comes with several attachments and is backed by a limited two-year warranty.

Most of the clean-up work around my house is carried out by robot vacuums.

Unfortunately, there aren't any models on the market yet that can go up and down stairs or go out to my car and clean it up. This is where a good handheld vacuum comes in, well, handy.

Bissell recently sent me its Lightweight Cordless Hand Vacuum and Car Vacuum (model 1985) for free to test. Here are my experiences with it.

My first experiences with the Bissell Cordless Hand Vacuum

The Bissell Cordless Hand Vacuum comes with four cleaning attachments:

  • Motorized brush roll— Within this attachment is a rotating brush that lifts and removes debris, such as pet hair, from a variety of surfaces, including carpets and upholstery.
  • Dusting brush — The soft bristles sweep up dust to be sucked up.
  • Extended dusting tool — This has the same soft bristles as the dusting brush but is extended for reaching cobwebs or other hard-to-reach places.
  • Crevice tool — Stored inside the handle, the crevice tool really gets into corners and between cushions.

Additionally, there is an extendable hose built into the vacuum.

The Bissell vacuum runs on a strong 22V lithium-ion battery that is designed to maintain a steady suction as long as it's running. Lithium-ion batteries can also sit for long periods of time without losing their charge. To charge the vac, you simply plug one end of the adapter into your wall and the other into the unit.

Though I recommend reading the safety precautions in the manual, the vacuum is intuitive enough that I was able to start using it immediately after a short initial charge without any instruction.

How the Bissell Cordless Hand Vacuum performed

What I like most about the Bissell Cordless Hand Vacuum is that my 5-year-old, Bucky, can use it. The vacuum only weighs about 3.25 pounds so it's easy for him to hold. One time, Bucky spilled a bunch of dry Cheerios all over the floor. I got him to clean it up on his own by letting him use the vacuum. And his favorite chore now is vacuuming the stairs. He isn't able to empty the dust bin on his own, but that's the easy part.

To empty the dustbin, you simply remove the dustbin from the unit, open the latch on the bottom over your trash can, and let everything drop out. To clean the filter, you gently wash it under warm water and let it dry out completely before replacing it.

The motorized brush roll is another useful feature. I found it worked a lot better than the other attachments when it came to cleaning up just about anything. A couple of messes it handled particularly well were pet hair — we have two cats and a dog — and glitter, which is always a challenge. The two bright LEDs directed ahead of the suction head are also helpful for getting into dark corners and spots where other lighting doesn't reach.

When you're cleaning your car, you don't want the vacuum to die on you. So, to test out the battery life of the Bissell 1985 Vacuum, I cleaned my Prius and a friend's minivan. I was able to complete the task on a single charge. The battery lasted over 20 minutes. You can then charge the battery for an hour for a short cleaning session or four hours to get it back to full juice.

bissel vacuum

Some concerns about the vacuum

After using the vacuum for about two months, it made a bad sound while I was emptying it and simply stopped working. It wouldn't charge. I emailed Bissell about it, and they got back to me within 24 hours. They sent me a replacement for free and a return label to send back the dud. I didn't even have to flash my media credentials. That's excellent customer service.

When we brought in the Christmas tree this season, we scattered quite a few pine needles all over. I figured it would be just another job for the Bissell to conquer. Unfortunately, the needles quickly clogged the tube, and the suction disappeared. I cleared the blockage and tried again but got the same results. I had to resort to an old-fashioned broom and dustpan.

The Bissell Handheld Vacuum is loud. I placed my sound meter approximately 12 inches away from the unit while it was running, and it registered 95 decibels. So, you may not want to do any cleaning when people are sleeping in the next room.

The bottom line

Overall, the Bissell Cordless Hand Vacuum is an excellent cleaning tool to have at your disposal, especially if you have pets and accident-prone kids.

The attachment selection makes it easy to reach a variety of areas, the battery life is long enough for most tasks, and the machine is light enough for people of all abilities to use for a prolonged period of time. The price is a bit much, but the vacuum is backed by a two-year limited warranty and exceptional customer service.

Buy the Bissell Lightweight Cordless Hand Vacuum and Car Vacuum on Amazon for $127.49

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The effects of the shutdown are only going to get exponentially worse as the fight drags on

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donald trump

  • The government shutdown is now in day 17 and shows no sign of ending.
  • The shutdown is already having an effect on government agencies, including closures and delays.
  • But as the shutdown drags on, the effects will only get worse.
  • Millions of Americans could start losing access to rent assistance and food stamps, airport security will get worse, and damage to national parks could increase.

Despite daily negotiations between the two sides, neither President Donald Trump nor Democrats appear to be close to backing down in the battle over the government shutdown.

The shutdown, which Trump kicked off by refusing a bipartisan, short-term funding extension before Christmas, appears poised to challenge the record for the longest federal funding lapse in the modern budgeting era.

Already, the shutdown is starting to affect federal departments that are currently without funding. Everything from the National Zoo's panda cam to paychecks for hundred of thousands of federal workers have become affected.

Read more:Here's what happens to Social Security and disability benefits during a government shutdown»

As the shutdown drags on, the fallout will only get worse. Many key programs are running on reserve funds during the month of January. When those wells run dry, everything from rent assistance to food stamps could be cut off.

Here are a few examples of how a lengthy shutdown could get worse:

  • Federal workers and contractors are going to start missing paychecks: Paychecks for 800,000 federal workers covering the latter half of December went out at the start of January, but without a funding bill these workers will not get their next paycheck on January 15.
  • 40 million Americans could lose SNAP benefits: The US Deparment of Agriculture has said that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, has enough funding to get through January. The USDA also has a reserve fund of $3 billion for February, but the program costs around $4.7 billion a month. This means the more than 20 million households receiving assistance could start to go without aid next month. Other food programs including the USDA's Child Nutrition Programs will also run out of funding in February.
  • Americans depending on rent assistance could be evicted: The Department of Housing and Urban Development sent a letter to more than 1,500 landlords who have tenants that utilize rent assistance programs asking owners not to evict those tenants. According to The Washington Post, HUD officials didn't even realize the funding for those programs would lapse and were taken by surprise. Additionally, as NBC News reported, HUD has suspended health and safety inspections for low-income housing that receives funding from the agency.
  • Deteriorating airport security: Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers are currently working without pay during the shutdown. According to TSA union officials, some employees are starting to call in sick. The number of absent workers appears to already be taking a toll on wait times at some airports.
  • Air travel could get less safe: Federal Aviation Administration employees are working without pay, including air traffic controllers. Representatives for pilot unions have warned that the lack of oversight for critical safety equipment during the shutdown will also make flying riskier. 
  • A possible delay in tax refunds: While the Trump administration has said tax refunds will continue to go out during the shutdown, it is unclear if there is legal justification for the move. Depending on the legal standing for the administration's decision, millions of Americans filing their 2018 tax returns could see a delay in refunds.
  • National parks could get worse: At National Parks across the US, human waste is already piling up as many areas are understaffed or not monitored. The Interior Department has authorized parks to use money from entrance fees to cover cleaning expenses, a move that is legally questionable. There have also been multiple reports of damaged wildlife due to a lack of patrols, and parks have begun to close some areas due to safety concerns. These parks could also decide to close entirely, as many did during the 2013 shutdown, to prevent further degradation of the lands.

SEE ALSO: The government shutdown is in its 17th day and there's no end in sight. Here's how Trump and Congress got into this mess.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Inside the Trump 'MAGA' hat factory

Women in New York City and San Francisco are obsessed with these comfortable flats made from recycled water bottles — here's what they feel like

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

27581460_372588859882026_7794735158220816384_n

  • Whether you've seen its ads on social media or have admired its flats on your co-worker, San Francisco shoe startup Rothy's seems to be everywhere. 
  • Rothy's flats are more than just a pretty work shoe. Its rounded flats ($125), pointed flats ($145), and loafers ($165) are made from 100% post-consumer plastic water bottles and other recycled materials, are machine-washable, and feel light and flexible on your feet. 
  • Rothy's innovative approach results in a comfortable, stylish, and sustainable shoe that you'll love wearing. 

Despite my mother's frequent pleas to wear heels more often ("They'll make your legs look longer!" "They'll force you to stand up straighter!"), I've always been more of a flats girl. I've encountered few pairs of heels I can walk around in for more than an afternoon, but many pairs of flats I wouldn't mind living in. 

Stephen "Hawthy" Hawthornwaite and Roth Martin realized such all-day comfort is important to women, but so is style, and increasingly, sustainability. Combining their names and these three priorities, they created Rothy's in 2016.

In two short years, Rothy's flats have become the favorite work shoe for women in the exact two hubs that Allbirds, another San Francisco-based shoe startup known for innovations in comfort, style, and sustainability, has also seduced: the Bay Area and New York City. 

Though both are trendy metropolitan areas, they're wildly different in pace of life and professional culture. That Rothy's is popular among both markets speaks to its quality, versatility, and understanding that geographic and cultural differences notwithstanding, women just want a pair of quality flats in their closet. 

rothys red white and blue

Rothy's makes three types of shoes: The Flat ($125), The Point ($145), and The Loafer ($165). These three classic silhouettes have a few modern twists, which speak directly to the conscious consumer who is more critical than ever of where her purchases come from and how they represent her personal style and values.

The unique upper knits of the shoes are made from 100% post-consumer plastic water bottles, which are hot washed, sterilized, then fused into a fiber that is then knit into yarn. The company has repurposed 12 million water bottles (and counting) and joins the growing movement of brands also using recycled plastic to make sneakers, leggings, and even watch bands

The use of sustainable materials doesn't stop there. The insoles contain recycled foam, while the rubber soles are carbon-free. The adhesives used are non-toxic and vegan. The packaging the shoes come in is made from post-consumer recycled materials and is biodegradable.

marigold rothys

Because of how they're made, Rothy's shoes have a distinctive feel and functional advantages that other flats don't. The seamless construction means there are no uncomfortably hard seams or edges (and is also less wasteful because this 3D process knits to the exact size of each pair and doesn't require any cutting), and the shoes are very light and flexible. They're moisture-wicking, fighting against sweat and rain, regardless of the season. They're also easy to maintain since they're machine-washable. 

When it comes to style, you have plenty of options to choose from. There are more than 20 styles each of The Flat and The Point and eight styles of The Loafer, from the simple Black Flat and casual weekend essential Taupe Heather Loafer to the made-for-summer Marigold and sophisticated Lapis Python Point

We tried four different pairs ourselves to see if they lived up to the brand's promises. Though there are other flats we favor in terms of perfect comfort, we did love the look and eco-friendly construction and would overall recommend Rothy's to anyone looking to invest in a pair of stylish, reliable flats. 

flax birdseed flats, @madireimer on Instagram

Sally Kaplan, Insider Picks editor: The Point in Flax Birdseye, $145

I am extremely picky about flats, mostly because it's hard to find ones that are the perfect storm of cute, affordable, and comfortable. This pair almost meets all three of those criteria, with the exception of the price being slightly over what I'd normally pay. That said, they are quickly becoming my go-to pair for work. I won't call them the most comfortable flats in the world (that title is reserved for the Everlane Day Glove), but they are exceptionally easy to commute in and I don't pray for the moment I can take them off every time I wear them. 

The one thing I will say is that if you have wide feet, the pointy-toe style is not for you. I'd go for the loafers in that case. I don't have wide feet but they're not narrow either — and these fit perfectly for me. My pinky toe rubbed against the seam a little bit, but not enough to cause a blister, so I'd call that a win. 

Overall, the lack of break-in period (for me, at least) and the little bit of stretch afforded by the knit upper are the two features I've loved most and I'd definitely recommend these to anyone looking for a stylish work flat. 

emerald point

Connie Chen, Insider Picks reporter: The Point in Emerald, $145

I’ve noticed quite a few women wearing Rothy’s because of their signature blue stitching and sleek look, so I was excited to finally give them a try. I love pointed flats, especially because I have small feet for my height and the shape helps elongate my feet, so right off the bat I liked Rothy's well-designed take on the style. Work flats tend towards neutral colors, but I had plenty of pretty and jewel-toned options to choose from, including this deep Emerald green. 

When I first slipped my foot in, it almost felt like the flats would be too big, but they turned out to hug my feet perfectly. Though they are designed to have a slight give, the company does recommend ordering half a size up if you have wide feet. As with many flats, there was a slight break-in period, but the plus is that they were very light on my feet the whole time, making the process a bit more comfortable. 

Plastic water bottles don't initially sound like they would translate well into a good pair of flats, so I was impressed with how well Rothy's did pull it off. 

lollipop loafers

Malarie Gokey, Insider Picks guides editor: The Loafer in Lollipop, $165

Rothy's Lollipop Loafers almost feel like slippers, but they look much nicer. I really like that they're made out of recycled plastic — it's something anyone who is eco-conscious will appreciate.

I don't typically wear flats, but these are perfect for throwing on when I need to run errands around the neighborhood. They're comfortable, breathable, and flexible enough for wearing in the summer. Rothy's loafers aren't quite as supportive or comfortable as Everlane's Day Glove flats, so I wouldn't wear them if you're going on a really long walk — especially if you're in a city. However, I think they're perfect for office wear.

Personally, I'd love the exact same pair of shoes with a 1 1/2- or 2-inch heel for a bit more impact absorption and height, but that's me. If you love flats and you don't plan to walk more than 3 miles any given day, Rothy's are a wonderful, eco-friendly, stylish choice.

red camo point

Ellen Hoffman, Insider Picks senior editor: The Point in Red Camo, $145

Some women really love pointed-toed shoes, and others really really don’t. I fall in the former camp since they help elongate my 5'3" frame and since, aesthetically, I’m drawn to the silhouette. I was attracted to The Point flat in particular because the style looked sleek and professional for work, and importantly, promised seamless comfort and support in the form of a 3D knit upper and removable insole.

The Point was feather-light and very breathable, so walking around Manhattan in 90-degree weather was never a hindrance. I was able to wear the shoe right out of the box with virtually no break-in period, although I suggest opting for The Flat or The Loafer if shoe width is concern since The Point did squish my right foot's toes together a bit too tightly for my liking.

I got the "red camo” color for something different since I usually play it safe with black or another neutral, but there are 22 other colors to choose from should you want something not quite as bold. 

Mara Leighton, Insider Picks reporter: The Point in Red Camo, $145

I love Rothy’s sustainable ethos — and for the most part, I loved the shoe in reality, too. But I also live a bit more than a mile away from the subway station I take every morning and night, so my shoes need to be disproportionately comfortable. For this, the Rothy’s were a tad narrow for all-day comfort in my right foot, though this isn’t the first time that has been an issue. I have average to narrow feet, so if you have wide feet I could see this being an issue for The Point style.

In terms of aesthetics, they’re some of my favorite flats; the red camo print is vibrant and unique, and the pointed toe elevates a blazer and jeans. And for other areas of comfort, the Rothy’s also deliver with machine-washability, removable insole, and a knit upper for seamless bending and breathability.

All in all, I really liked the Rothy’s, and I’ll continue to wear them. But if you’re going to be power walking a couple miles in them daily, you might want to save these to change into once you get to the office. —Mara Leighton 

Rothy's

Ranging from $125 to $165 a pair, Rothy's are a step up from the average pair of flats, not only in price, but also in quality, style, and ethos. Shoppers are realizing they don't have to compromise on any of the criteria they care about, and Rothy's is a prime example of how to live up to those high expectations. 

Shop flats and loafers at Rothy's here

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Kettlebell Kitchen is a healthy meal delivery service that could be the secret to keeping your fitness and nutrition resolutions in 2019

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

kettlebell kitchen review 3

  • No one ever said healthy eating was easy, but meal planning and delivery service Kettlebell Kitchen could be the closest thing to it. 
  • Since meal planning is confusing and time-intensive, Kettlebell Kitchen takes care of it for you, taking your fitness goals, dietary restrictions, and delivery frequency preferences into account. 
  • Each delicious meal is made with fresh, healthy ingredients and will run you $10 to $12. The meals can be delivered to your door or picked up at a participating gym in your area. 

We've all heard that abs are made in the kitchen and that the best way to supplement your fitness goals through food is meal planning. Sounds simple enough, but if you've ever tried it yourself, you know it's not: you spend a lot of time comparing contradictory nutrition tips, devising recipes you pray you won't get bored of, and cooking meals in bulk. 

Looking to eat well without the hassle of traditional meal planning, brothers and Army vets Joe and Andrew Lopez-Gallego teamed up with chef Greg Grossman (a young culinary talent who was once invited to cook at three Michelin-starred Alinea at the tender age of 13) to start healthy meal delivery service Kettlebell Kitchen in 2013. 

Tell Kettlebell Kitchen about your exercise habits, dietary preferences, and fitness goals, and it'll create a custom meal plan of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for you and deliver them to your home or a participating gym near you.

They don't contain any artificial ingredients or sweeteners, gluten, soy, dairy, or inflammatory oils, and they do contain fresh vegetables, grass-fed and pasture-raised beef, gluten-free grains, dairy-free milk, and limited amounts of sugar. 

kettlebell kitchen review 2

The number and diversity of dishes offered ensures you'll actually look forward to eating your next meal instead of forcing it down out of necessity. I tried a few of the dishes, including its Popcorn Chicken meal and Lemon Cookie. They were easy to transport, were ready in minutes in the microwave, and tasted delicious. The idea that healthy foods don't taste good is clearly stuck in a less creative past, as I experienced previously with another service called Veestro, and now with Kettlebell Kitchen

There are new specials offered every week, and they'll differ based on your location. Specialized options include keto meals (e.g. Spicy Chicken & Pork Meatballs with Zucchini and Spaghetti Squash Noodles), vegetarian meals (e.g. Bamboo Rice Bibimbap), and "KBK Core" meals (e.g. Wild Salmon Cakes, Grass-Fed Steak, and Yucca). Your chosen plan will include these meals in various combinations, but you can also shop them a la carte. 

Depending on the meal delivery frequency you choose, the cost comes out to $10 to $12 a meal, and the meals are delivered twice a week. 

kettlebell kitchen review 4

Kettlebell Kitchen currently offers 10 different meal plans. Some, like Whole30 and Pure Paleo, are ingredients-guided, while others, like Endure (for endurance-based sports like biking and swimming) and Build (to help you gain lean muscle mass) support specific types of physical activity and training. Once you choose a plan type and fill out your profile of body statistics, exercise habits, and dietary restrictions, the service takes seconds to make your plan. If you count calories, have a specific calorie target, or track macros, it will also take those preferences into account when designing your meal plan. 

On the dashboard, you'll still have the freedom to switch out meals and when you want to eat certain meals, so you're not completely tied to whatever Kettlebell Kitchen designs. However, if you're the type to keep things simple or you're just starting out on your fitness and health journey, you can trust that its nutritionists know what they're doing.

A small shipping fee applies if you want to receive deliveries at your home or office, but there's also the option to pick them up at one of the company's many nationwide gym partners. Since you're likely to be working out at or near that gym anyway, it's a cheaper and convenient way to pick up your fuel for the week. 

Learn more and get started with Kettlebell Kitchen's healthy meal plans here

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Russian lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya charged with obstruction in major Russian money-laundering case

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Natalia Veselnitskaya

  • New York federal prosecutors on Tuesday charged the Kremlin-allied lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya with obstruction of justice in a major Russian money-laundering case that was settled in 2017.
  • The case centered around whether the Russian real-estate firm Prevezon laundered millions into New York real estate.
  • It drew attention at the time because of its ties to a separate $230 million Russian tax-fraud scheme that implicated several high-level Kremlin officials and prompted the passage of the 2012 Magnitsky Act.
  • When the US government asked the Russian government for help in investigating the Prevezon case, the Russian government refused and sent over a memo that sought to exonerate Prevezon.
  • According to Tuesday's indictment, Veselnitskaya, who represented Prevezon in the case, was instrumental in drafting the memo and "in doing so, Veselnitskaya obstructed the civil proceeding."

Natalia Veselnitskaya, the Kremlin-connected lawyer at the center of a June 2016 Trump Tower meeting between Trump campaign officials and several Russians, was charged Tuesday with obstruction of justice in a separate case, The New York Times reported.

Federal prosecutors in New York indicted Veselnitskaya for seeking to hamper a Justice Department investigation into an alleged money-laundering operation that involved an elaborate Russian tax-fraud scheme and implicated high-level Kremlin officials.

At the center of the case is the Russian state-owned real-estate company Prevezon, which is incorporated in Cyprus. Federal investigators had been probing whether Prevezon laundered millions of dollars into New York City real estate, and the Southern District of New York reached a settlement with Prevezon in May 2017 for $6 million.

At the time, the case drew attention because of its connection to a $230 million Russian tax-fraud scheme and its link to the Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky. Magnitsky's suspicious death in a Russian prison prompted the passage of the 2012 Magnitsky Act, which blacklists wealthy Russians suspected of human-rights abuses.

According to Tuesday's indictment against Veselnitskaya, after the Justice Department asked the Kremlin for help in its investigation, the Russian government refused the request and responded with a letter that sought to exonerate Russian officials and Prevezon employees.

The document said Veselnitskaya, who represented Prevezon in the case, secretly cooperated with a top Russian prosecutor in drafting Russia's response and, "in doing so, Veselnitskaya obstructed the civil proceeding."

Read more:The Russian lawyer who met with Trump campaign says she is a Kremlin 'informant'

Veselnitskaya drew additional scrutiny when The Times reported in summer 2017 that she was one of several Russians who met with top Trump campaign officials at Trump Tower in June 2016, at the height of the US presidential election.

Donald Trump Jr., who attended the meeting, initially claimed it had nothing to do with campaign business. But subsequent reporting revealed that Trump Jr. accepted the meeting after he was offered kompromat from Veselnitskaya on the Hillary Clinton campaign as "part of Russia and its government's support" for Trump's candidacy.

Veselnitskaya initially claimed she had no ties to the Russian government.

But Rob Goldstone, the British music publicist who pitched the meeting to Trump Jr., described Veselnitskaya in an email as a "Russian government attorney" aligned with "the Crown prosecutor of Russia," believed to be a reference to Yuri Chaika, Russia's prosecutor general.

Read more:What we know about Yuri Chaika — the Kremlin's 'master of kompromat' who's behind the notorious Trump Tower meeting

Chaika, described as a "master of kompromat," has long been working with Veselnitskaya to overturn the Magnitsky Act.

His office gave the former Republican congressman Dana Rohrabacher and three other US representatives a confidential letter detailing American investor Bill Browder's "illegal scheme of buying up Gazprom shares without permission of the Government of Russia" between 1999 and 2006, one month after Rohrabacher returned from Moscow. Browder was targeted by Chaika's office because of his role in spearheading the Magnitsky Act

As INSIDER has previously reported, Veselnitskaya brought a memo to the Trump Tower meeting that contained many of the same talking points as one written by Chaika's office two months earlier.

Veselnitskaya told the Senate Judiciary Committee in November that she worked exclusively as a private lawyer and said her ties to the Russian government and Chaika were only in a professional capacity.

"I operate independently of any governmental bodies," she told the committee, adding: "I have no relationship with Mr. Chaika, his representatives, and institutions other than those related to my professional functions of a lawyer."

But last year, Veselnitskaya admitted she had closer ties to the Kremlin than she had previously let on and shed light on her relationship with Chaika.

"I am a lawyer, and I am an informant," she told NBC News. "Since 2013, I have been actively communicating with the office of the Russian prosecutor general."

SEE ALSO: The Russian lawyer who met with Trump campaign says she is a Kremlin 'informant'

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Why Russia may not be as strong as most people think

These fleece-lined jeans are my secret to keeping warm without any added bulk or extra layers

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

DUER

  • Founded in 2013, DUER set out to create performance clothing that bridges the gap between fashion and function. The company's new Fireside Fleece-Lined Jeans do exactly that.
  • DUER uses a unique interweaving method that fuses the denim and fleece materials together, making them bulk-free.
  • Priced at $159, DUER Fireside Denim is expensive, but well worth the money. They're stretchy and warmer than normal denim, yet just as lightweight and comfortable.

Finding clothes that are exceptionally warm is always high on my list of priorities during the winter. Over the years, I've amassed a solid selection of hats, jackets, fleeces, sweaters, sweatshirts, and boots, but I've always struggled to find ways to keep my legs as warm as the rest of my body.

My mother tried to force fleece-lined jeans onto me for years when I was younger, but because of how unflattering many of the options on the market were in terms of style, I never did it. I would rather wear multiple layers of long johns under a normal pair of jeans before walking around in wide-leg boot-cut jeans with bright red, green, or plaid flannel showing at the cuffs. And because the whole lumberjack look isn't my thing, I did exactly that — until I came across a pair from performance denim brand DUER.

Founded in 2013 by Gary Lenett and Abid Hafeez, DUER was created to bridge the gap between fashion and functional clothing for professional athletes, commuters, and every kind of adventurer in between — and the Fireside fleece-lined jeans do a wonderful job at living up to those core values.

DUER

The jeans feature a slim fit, a versatile medium blue wash, a stretchy material for mobility and durability, and a fully fleece lined interior. Rather than gluing or stitching the denim and fleece materials together, the DUER Fireside Denim uses a unique approach to interweaving fabric fibers, which essentially brings them together as one. The result is a design that's warm yet lightweight and bulk-free.

With freezing temperatures as the norm for this time of year, DUER sent over a few pairs of the Fireside Denim for the men of Insider Picks to try out. Despite having different personal styles, the Fireside Denim proved to be a hit for each of us. Check out our thoughts below:

DUER

Insider Picks reporter Amir Ismael:

For me, these jeans are really great for three main reasons: the fit, the subtle look of the fleece, and most importantly, the warmth. My first impression was how well they fit. They're slim but not too skinny. I can wear them with sneakers or boots without looking like some sort of carpenter or construction worker. They also come in every waist size between 28 and 40, so men of almost all sizes can find a pair for themselves.

I also really appreciate the subdued color choice used on the fleece. The light grey color mimics what the reverse side of denim would look like, so you can cuff them without a tacky color showing. Maybe I'm being extremely picky, but that's always been a turn off for me with flannel-lined jeans. They're also noticeably warmer than regular denim — so much so that it's been hard to go back to normal jeans after wearing them.

Priced at $159 a pair, they are expensive, but it's easy to justify the amount. Rather than spending that same amount on normal jeans just for a brand name, you're getting stretchy performance jeans that are super warm, lightweight, and fashionable. I can't say that all fleece-lined jeans are a win, but these definitely are.

The only thing I wish DUER did with the release of the Fireside Denim was make more colors. That way, I could experience them every day of the week without wearing the same pair over and over. If and when they do release more colors, I'll definitely be buying a second pair. 

DUER

Insider Picks associate editor Brandt Ranj:

Winter in the Northeast means making clothing choices that are less about style and more about keeping yourself from freezing, but DUER proves you can have the best of both worlds. I’m not a huge fan of slim jeans, but DUER has managed to make their pair snug without feeling tight. But the big win is their fleece lining.

I love flannel-lined jeans because they keep my legs warm, even when the winter wind blows. The problem is that the pairs I’ve worn in the past have been big and bulky, which is fine for functionality, but not very fashion forward. The fleece DUER used kept my legs just as toasty, but felt lighter and looked nicer than the jeans I’m used to wearing this time of year. If I dare to leave the house on days when the temperature falls below freezing, this is the pair of pants I’m reaching for first.

DUER

Insider Picks senior reporter David Slotnick:

The first thing I noticed when I tried these jeans on was how thin they felt. Unlike with other flannel-lined pants or jeans I’ve tried on before, you don’t feel the bulk of a ton of extra material with these. Although the fabric was definitely thicker than my normal jeans, they only felt very marginally so.

Also unlike other brands I’ve tried on, the fit wasn't super bulky or awkward. They were comfortable to wear, and I looked like I just had on a pair of my normal jeans. They have a nice bit of stretch, making it easy to squat down or pedal a bike, and they were definitely warmer than a standard pair of jeans. I don’t bike commute very often during the winter, but these will be my go-to when I do.

DUER Fireside Fleece-Lined Denim, $159

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Mike Pence awkwardly dodged questions about Trump's claim that former presidents told him they should have built a border wall

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mike pence donald trump

  • Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday fielded several questions about President Donald Trump's recent claim that his predecessors told him they wished they had built a wall along the US-Mexico border.
  • Trump said Friday that former presidents told him a border wall should have been built long ago.
  • Since then, representatives for all four living former presidents have denied Trump's claim.
  • Pence offered a slight defense of the remark to NBC's Hallie Jackson before pivoting away.
  • "I know I've seen clips of previous presidents talking about the importance of border security, the importance of addressing the issue of illegal immigration," he said.

Multiple journalists grilled Vice President Mike Pence on Tuesday about President Donald Trump's false claim that his predecessors privately told him they wished they had built a border wall during their terms.

Pence appeared on NBC News and ABC News early Tuesday to discuss the administration's push for a wall along the US-Mexico border amid a government shutdown stretching into its third week.

Trump triggered immediate skepticism on Friday when he said during a news conference that previous presidents acknowledged that a border wall should have been built long ago.

"This should have been done by all of the presidents that preceded me," Trump said. "And they all know it. Some of them have told me that we should have done it."

Representatives for all four living presidents have recently said they never discussed the topic with Trump. Two of them — Barack Obama and Jimmy Carter— released statements condemning the wall.

Read more: Trump goes off the rails in freewheeling news conference raging about the shutdown, the border wall, DACA, and Democrats

bollard fence us-mexico border calexico

A representative for former President George H.W. Bush, who died in November, declined to comment to The Washington Post and said it was too soon for Bush to be "dragged into such debates."

But when Pence was asked by NBC's Hallie Jackson about the falsehood on Tuesday, he dodged the question.

"I know the president has said that that was his impression from previous administrations, previous presidents," Pence said. "I know I've seen clips of previous presidents talking about the importance of border security, the importance of addressing the issue of illegal immigration."

Jackson pushed back, asking, "That's different from telling the president though, right?"

"Honestly, the American people want us to address this issue," Pence said.

Pence similarly deflected when ABC's Jonathan Karl asked about the falsehood.

"Well, look, the American people aren't as concerned about the political debate as they are concerned about what's really happening at the border," Pence said.

He added: "The passion you hear from President Trump, his determination to take this case to the American people, as he will tonight in his national broadcast from the Oval Office, comes from this president's deep desire to do his job to protect the American people."

Pence was referring to Trump's primetime address on border security scheduled for 9 p.m. ET. All the major broadcast and cable news networks— NBC, ABC, CBS, PBS, and Fox — have announced they will carry the remarks live.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: MSNBC host Chris Hayes thinks President Trump's stance on China is 'not at all crazy'

Save up to 50% on Timex watches, Bonobos clothing, and Timberland shoes — and more of today's best deals from around the web

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TheInsider Picksteam writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Since you don't have all day to scour the web for noteworthy sales and discounts, we rounded up the best bargains for you to shop in one convenient place.

Timex

1. Save up to 50% on Timex watches

Timex is undoubtedly one of the most well-known watch companies, and for good reason. With a rich brand heritage, handsome details, and great prices, Timex appeals to all types of people, from casual watch-wearers to die-hard collectors. Now, the brand's timepieces are even more appealing with up to 50% off watches during the End of Season Sale.

Shop the Timex End of Season sale now.

Bonobos

2. Save an extra 40% on sale styles at Bonobos

Any guy looking to add new pieces to his winter wardrobe should head over to Bonobos. Now through January 11, you can save an extra 40% on sale styles when you use the promo code "WINTER40" at checkout. With everything from sweaters, sweatshirts, and dress shirts to jeans and outerwear, there are plenty of great basics to choose from.

Shop the Bonobos sale now.

Echo Dot Gen 3

3. Save 40% on the 3rd Generation Echo Dot

With voice-controlled smart technology, you can ask Alexa to play music, answer questions, read the news, check the weather, set alarms, call and message hands-free, and control compatible smart home devices like lights, locks, or thermostats. Originally priced at $49.99, you can pick one up for $29.99 or two for $50. The charcoal and sandstone colors are unavailable until as late as February, but you can order the heather grey color right now.

Echo Dot Gen 3, $29.99 (Originally $49.99) [You save $20]

Target fitness gear

4. Save 20% on fitness and exercise gear at Target

If you're starting out the new year with goals to be more active and healthy, you're going to need the right gear make the lifestyle change easier. Right now, Target is having a sale on fitness and exercise gear with 20% off many items. Here, you'll find everything from workout apparel and activity trackers to weights, jump ropes, and workout machines.

Shop the Target sale now.

Timberland 1978 Hiker

5. Save an extra 25% on winter sale styles at Timberland

Though it's known mostly for its boots, Timberland's line of products also extends into apparel, with everything from heavy winter outwear and sweaters to button-up shirts and chinos. Right now, Timberland is having a huge sale on footwear and apparel for men, women, and children. You can save an extra 25% on already reduced winter sale styles. Discounts are automatically taken off at checkout, so shopping is easy.

Shop the Timberland Winter Sale now.

Levi's

6. Save 40% on winter sale styles at Levi's

When it comes to denim, you can't go wrong with Levi's. Right now, you can take an extra 40% off sale items by using the promo code "WINTER40" at checkout. You'll find selections for men, women, and children.

Shop the Levi's sale now.

gs appliance primary

7. Save up to 30% on top appliance deals at Best Buy

Best Buy is having a huge sale with up to 30% off top appliances from brands like Maytag, LG, KitchenAid, Samsung, and more. Plus, you can receive a Best Buy gift card for up to $200 on qualifying purchases and free delivery on major appliance purchases of $399.99 or more. Whether you're looking for large appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers, or small essentials like microwaves and mixers, this sale has it all.

Shop the Best Buy Appliance sale now.

Foot Locker

8.Save up to 50% on sneakers and apparel at Foot Locker

Foot Locker is the best place to find sneakers and apparel from all your favorite sportswear brands. During the retailer's holiday clearance event, you can automatically save 30% to 50% on select items. The sale includes heavily discounted styles from brands like Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Air Jordan, New Balance, and more.

Shop the Foot Locker sale now.

Bear Mattress

9. Save up to $225 on a Bear Hybrid Mattress

One of our favorite mattress startups, Bear revolutionized the way we sleep by creating a mattress that supports every body type and sleeping style. Today, you can save $125 on orders over $500 with promo code "NYS125" or save $225 on orders over $1,200 with promo code "NYS225" at checkout. Plus, get a free Cloud Pillow.

Shop the Bear Hybrid Mattress in Queen, King, and California King sizes now.

Join the conversation about this story »

13 ways you can be happier at work, according to career experts

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woman smiling happy fun friend laugh

  • To optimize your career, you want to make sure the hours you spend at work are more happy than not.
  • Even though it may not seem like it, there are ways to be happier at work, including making sure you carve out time to take breaks.
  • Here, 13 career experts share tips on how to be happier at work.

 

If you work 40 hours out of a 168-hour week, that's nearly a quarter of your week spent at work. Of course, you probably want to make sure those hours are more enjoyable than not. But not everyone is happy at work.

In fact, Teem— a software and workplace analytics company that WeWork recently acquired— did some research on the subject. According to the 2017 Teem Employee Happiness Survey of over 1,300 US workers, 48% of those surveyed reported being unhappy or "somewhat happy" at work, which was up 8% from their 2016 report.

Among the factors contributing to this were poor work-life balance (48%), workers feeling underappreciated in their positions (46%), and people feeling obligated to respond to colleagues at all times, due to communication apps (49%).

"Work can be stressful, but that doesn't mean happiness can't be achieved," Zach Holmquist, cofounder and chief of workplace experience at Teem, told Business Insider in an email. "While it may seem difficult to attain, it's crucial for both employees and employers. To avoid burnout and ultimately maximize creativity and productivity, ensure you are truly working in an environment where you can thrive."

Here, Holmquist and 12 other career experts share their advice on how to be happier at work. (Responses have been condensed and edited for clarity.)

SEE ALSO: 13 people reveal how much money they've made from their side hustles

1. Put your professional development first

Like many experiences in life, being happy at work all starts with how you mentally view your job and the people you work with. Put your professional development first — happiness at work is knowing you can grow and learn in your company. Professional development can be anything from taking classes to knowing how to become a good manager.

Jillian Seijo, HR manager atDevelop Intelligence



2. Figure out what truly motivates you

Many individuals are unhappy at work because they haven't tapped into what fundamentally motivates them — they lack a sense of meaningfulness in their job or connectedness with their team.

So, think deeply about how you define enjoyment, success, and fulfillment, and see how that relates to what you do at work. Perhaps there's a disconnect between what really motivates you and how you relate to either the projects you engage in or the teams you're involved with.

— Kira Nurieli, founder and director ofHarmony Strategies Group



3. Conduct an energy audit and make changes accordingly

For the next three days, write down all your tasks at work and beyond, and note whether each one drains you or fills your cup. Include both intentional activities and unintentional diversions (i.e., procrastination or getting caught up in emails).

After three days, review your balance sheet. Ask yourself if there are any changes you can make to do less of what drains you and more of what enlivens you.

Sarah Greenberg, licensed psychotherapist andlead coach atBetterUp



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

I've been a manager for 10 years — here are the 5 best ways to impress your boss

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woman talking work boss coworkers

  • Impressing your boss may feel like trying to hit a moving target, but there are steps you can take to get there no matter what your field.
  • Author Nicole Rollender draws on her 10 years of experience as a manager in publishing houses for this list of the five best ways to impress your boss.
  • From generating ideas to simply being responsive, here's how you can stand out from your colleagues.  

 

Early in my career in publishing, when I worked as an editorial assistant, a staff writer, a special projects editor, and then a managing editor, I always tried to read my bosses. How can I impress her? How can I be sure I'll get a raise?

The tables turned 10 years ago when I took on an executive director role where I managed lots of people.

Here are five things I learned that you can do to really impress your boss and stand out from the rest of the team.

SEE ALSO: 26 signs you're a good boss — even if it doesn't feel like it

1. Keep track of everything you're working on.

This may sound like a no-brainer, but I can't tell you how many times I've given an employee an assignment and then followed up a week later only to hear, "I totally forgot to do that. I just didn't write it down."

As an executive managing multiple departments and lots of employees, that's the last thing I wanted to hear. Whenever you meet with your boss or get an assignment, always note it in your online calendar with the due dates, especially if there are multiple parts. When your boss asks you for a status update, you're prepared.

Even better, provide your boss with a status update before they check in with you. Employees who did that always impressed me.



2. Be responsive.

There's nothing worse to a manager than sending her employee an email or leaving a voicemail and hearing radio silence. I can’t tell you how often an employee wouldn’t get back to me at all for several hours.

As an executive (and now a business owner), I always make it a point to respond to every single communication I receive, even if it’s a simple, "Hey, I received your message. I'll get this back to you right after lunch."

Being responsive makes you a team member I know I can rely on.



3. Work smarter, not harder.

You’ve probably heard this workplace cliché before. However, it really is true. It's not the number of hours you work that your boss cares about — it's the thoughtfulness you put into executing a project.

One of my early managers gave me some great feedback. "You rush into things because you think that if you tackle the project head-on and get it done ASAP, I’m going to be more impressed," he said. "However, I'd be more impressed if you sat back and thought about all the possibilities for this project, and then devised a well-thought-out plan we could review together."

Build thinking time into your project. That upfront time will shave hours off your working time later.

The number of hours you log isn’t what gets you the promotion. The smart end product is.



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The best yoga pants you can buy

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

best yoga pants

  • The right pair of yoga pants can make all the difference when it comes to a good workout.
  • The 90 Degree By Reflex Yoga Capris are our favorites because they are affordable, feature a supportive four-way stretch, and use moisture-wicking technology for ultimate comfort. 

One of the biggest struggles women have with working out (besides finding the motivation to hit the gym) is finding comfortable and functional activewear. This rings especially true when it comes to finding the right pair of yoga pants.

With thousands of options, it can be hard to determine which pair is right for you. The key is to find yoga pants that are both functional, and fashionable, and won’t split down the seams, or turn completely see-through as soon as you start stretching.

To help you narrow down your options, we decided to round up the best pairs of yoga pants you can buy. From high-waisted pairs in classic black to printed cropped options, there’s something for everyone in our guide.

Here are the best yoga pants you can buy:

Updated on 01/08/2019 by Malarie Gokey: Updated prices and formatting.

Read on in the slides below to check out our top picks.

SEE ALSO: The best yoga mats you can buy

The best yoga pants overall

Why you'll love them: If you're looking for comfortable and affordable yoga pants that are true to size, flexible, and move with you, the 90 Degree By Reflex Yoga Capris are your best bet.

The90 Degree By Reflex Yoga Capris are a versatile pair of leggings that feature supportive four-way stretch fabric and moisture-wicking technology that will help you prevent chafing and keep you feeling fresh during your workouts.

The sleek, functional leggings also have a hidden pocket in the waistband to allow you to store your belongings, and keep your hands free while you pound the pavement or head to a coffee shop. The popular pants have a 4.4-star rating and more than 3,600 reviews on Amazon.

Thanks to the 22-inch inseam, the capris are just the right length for petite women and hit mid-calf on taller women. The yoga pants are made from 47% Nylon, 46% Polyester, and 7% Spandex for good stretch.

Buyers love about how they fit true to size, are super comfortable, and completely durable. One buyer said the pants' color and fit have not changed after four months of wear. Some reviewers did mention that the leggings, especially the darker colors, can attract pet hair and lint, but that's true of most clothes.

You can get the leggings in a variety of different colors including black, pink, blue, green, purple, and gray. Sizing runs from X-Small to X-Large, and you can get packs with multiple pairs. If you don't love them, you can return the capris for a full refund.

Pros: Affordable, moisture wicking, four-way stretch, hidden pocket, durable

Cons: Darker colors can attract pet hair

Buy the 90 Degree By Reflex Yoga Capris on Amazon for $18.99 - $65 (price varies by size and color)



The best high-end yoga pants

Why you'll love them:Sweaty Betty's Yoga Pants come in many fun patterns and they're super comfortable for yoga.

Sweaty Betty's workout gear is all about performance and style. The Reversible leggings are our favorite pair of yoga pants from the brand because they're made from high stretch opaque fabric that moves with you.

These full-length leggings are high waisted so they won't fall down on you, and they're reversible, so you can switch between two different patterns as you please. You can get them in three different colors and patterns, all of which are subtle and cool.

Most buyers love these yoga pants for how comfortable and attractive they are. Sweaty Betty also makes our favorite running tights for the gym and our favorite workout gear for women.

The leggings come in sizes XXS to XL, and you can choose between long or short lengths, depending on your height.

Pros: Quick drying material, snug fit, great for any type of workout

Cons: Expensive

Buy the Sweaty Betty Yoga Pants for $110 to $130



The best cropped yoga pants

Why you'll love them: The ODODOS Power Flex Yoga Capris Pants are a flattering pair of yoga pants that contour to your body for a perfect fit.

Made with a four-way stretch and opaque fabric, theODODOS Power Flex Yoga Capris Pants are perfect for every type of workout. The stretchy leggings help lift and shape your body, while the thick waistband helps prevent them from falling down while you move.

The capris are designed to be cropped just a few inches below the knee and are stylish enough to be worn outside the gym, too. They are also made with moisture wicking and antimicrobial technologies, so you won't feel sweaty and gross after your yoga session.

More than 1,000Amazon reviewers have given the yoga pants an average rating of 4.2 stars, with many stating that they are super soft and comfortable. One buyer praised the pants saying, “I LOVE these pants. They fit perfect around the waist and don't dig into your side...no love handles! I'm getting more in a lot more colors."

You can choose from a number of different colors and patterns. Sizes run from Small to XX-Large. The leggings are made from 87% Polyester and 13% Spandex or  87% Nylon and 13% Spandex.

Pros: Affordable, variety of colors and patterns, moisture wicking, stretchy, comfortable

Cons: A few customers mentioned you can see panty lines under some of the lighter colored options

Buy the ODODOS Power Flex Yoga Capris Pants on Amazon for $12.98 - $17.98 (price varies by size and color)



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'Call and write the president': The government shutdown could mean more food-poisoning outbreaks

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fda inspector eggs

  • The government shutdown is now in its 18th day.
  • As part of the shutdown, may of the Food and Drug Administration's food-inspection duties are not being conducted.
  • The US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service is still operational, but employees are not getting paid.
  • According to Bill Marler, an attorney specializing in food-poisoning outbreaks, these changes could lead to problems including more outbreaks of food poisoning.

The government shutdown could lead to a perhaps unexpected negative consequence: more food-poisoning outbreaks.

With the fight over President Donald Trump's demands for a wall along the US-Mexico border dragging on into its 18th day, some food-safety functions of the US government are going untended. According to one expert, the shutdown's effects should make Americans concerned about food-poisoning outbreaks.

There are two major agencies that oversee food-safety inspections in the US: the Food and Drug Administration, a division of the Department of Health and Human Services; and the Food Safety and Inspection Service, a division of the US Department of Agriculture.

The FSIS oversees inspections of meat, poultry, and eggs, while the FDA looks after the rest.

According to the USDA's shutdown plan, FSIS employees are deemed "essential," and inspections conducted by the agency will continue. But employees carrying out those inspections are not paid.

By contrast, the FDA's plan determined that while limited inspections would continue during the shutdown — such as inspections of imported foods — a majority of food operations would be shut down.

Read more:The effects of the shutdown will get exponentially worse if the fight drags on

"FDA would be unable to support some routine regulatory and compliance activities," the FDA plan said. "This includes some medical product, animal drug, and most food related activities. FDA will also pause routine establishment inspections, cosmetics and nutrition work, and many ongoing research activities."

In addition, the FDA deemed that employees responsible for responding to outbreaks of foodborne illness were essential. But those measures are for response, rather than the inspections that could prevent an outbreak.

"I'd say you should be very worried about your food safety, in part because the work that's not being done right now is the work that's needed to prevent the next outbreak of foodborne illness," Sarah Sorscher, a deputy director of regulatory affairs at the consumer watchdog Center for Science in the Public Interest, told Public Radio International.

According to the FDA's plan, 41% of all employees are on furlough, meaning the workers are not receiving pay and are barred from coming to work. Only 11% of FSIS workers are furloughed in that agency's plan.

But even those FSIS and FDA employees who are still on the job are facing financial woes because of the lack of pay. Unpaid employees in other agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, are said to be calling in sick in large numbers, and problems in those departments are adding up.

In its shutdown plan, the FSIS said problems with safety would worsen as a shutdown dragged on.

"A lengthy hiatus would affect the safety of human life and have serious adverse effects on the industry, the consumer and the Agency," the report said.

Bill Marler, an attorney specializing in food-poisoning outbreaks who has won more than $600 million for clients in foodborne-illness cases, pointed out that the real possibility of not receiving a paycheck on January 15 was also most likely affecting the inspectors remaining on the job.

"Seriously, can we expect, as the shutdown stumbles into week two, that inspectors' focus are solely on preventing the next E. coli, Salmonella or Listeria outbreak?" Marler wrote in a blog post.

When asked by Business Insider what people could do to avoid another food-poisoning outbreak, Marler had just one suggestion.

"Call and write the president," Marler said in an email on Tuesday.

SEE ALSO: Fast-food workers are striking after a McDonald's customer attacked an employee

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NOW WATCH: Here are some of the odd 'defects' the FDA allows inside processed food

The 10 most expensive divorce settlements in history total over $11 billion — here's who walked away with the most

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Plenty of celebrities have been on the wrong end of a costly divorce settlement, including Paul McCartney, Madonna, Tiger Woods, and even President Donald Trump.

Though each of those settlements was worth tens of millions of dollars, they pale in comparison to the most expensive divorce settlements of all time.

That dubious list is reserved for settlements worth hundreds of millions of dollars — and in a few eye-popping cases, $1 billion or more.

Read on to see the most expensive divorce settlements of all time:

SEE ALSO: In 9 US states, a divorce means you'll lose half of everything you own — here's why

DON'T MISS: A psychotherapist was flooded with hate mail in 2012 when he said people don't need years of therapy to get better, and 7 years later, he still hasn't changed his mind

10. Bob Johnson and Sheila Crump Johnson, 2002 — $400 million

Television moguls Bob Johnson and Sheila Johnson were married from 1969 to 2002, and during their time together cofounded the network Black Entertainment Television.

In 2000, the couple became the first African-American billionaires, and when the couple divorced two years later, Sheila Johnson walked away with $400 million, according to ABC News.

In a twist of fate, Sheila later married the judge who presided over her divorce.



9. Mel Gibson and Robyn Moore, 2006 — $425 million

The nearly half-a-million-dollar settlement between actor Mel Gibson and Robyn Moore remains the largest Hollywood divorce payout in history.

The settlement totaled half of the actor's net worth at the time.



8. Craig McCaw and Wendy McCaw, 1997 — $460 million

Cell phone industry pioneer Craig McCaw and newspaper publisher Wendy McCaw amicably divorced in 1997, with the settlement estimated to exceed $460 million in Nextel stock, according to Forbes.



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Warren Buffett predicted the fall of Eddie Lampert and Sears over a decade ago (SHLD, BRK.A)

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  • Sears will ask a bankruptcy judge to pursue liquidation, which would mark the end of the iconic retailer's downward spiral.
  • The retailer also rejected a takeover offer from former Sears CEO Eddie Lampert, once called the "next Warren Buffett."
  • Buffett predicted the retailer's and Lampert's downfall in 2005.
  • "Turning around a retailer that has been slipping for a long time would be very difficult," Buffett said at the time. "Can you think of an example of a retailer that was successfully turned around?"

The end for Sears appears near. And Warren Buffett's decade-old prediction is finally coming true.

Sears will ask a bankruptcy judge to pursue liquidation on Tuesday, likely ending the retailer's more than century-long run.

The move comes after Sears filed for bankruptcy in October and Eddie Lampert, a hedge-fund manager who long promised to turn the struggling company around, also agreed to step down as CEO. A last-ditch attempt by Lampert, who can still make the case to save Sears, was also reportedly rejected.

The announcement appears to be the final straw in a long decline for the once iconic retailer.

The fall from grace of both Lampert, once considered the "next Warren Buffett," and Sears was laid out by the Berkshire Hathaway CEO 13 years ago.

In an interview between Buffett and a group of University of Kansas students that has been circulating since 2005, Buffett was asked about Lampert and his attempt to turn around Sears.

In his reply, the famed investor laid out the road map for the retailer's continued decline.

"Eddie is a very smart guy, but putting Kmart and Sears together is a tough hand," Buffett told the Kansas crowd. "Turning around a retailer that has been slipping for a long time would be very difficult.

"Can you think of an example of a retailer that was successfully turned around?"

Buffett also compared it to his experience investing in retail in the 1970s.

For him, the constantly changing winds of consumer preferences make it impossible for retailers to catch up to more forward-thinking stores after falling behind. From Buffett [emphasis added]:

"Retailing is like shooting at a moving target. In the past, people didn't like to go excessive distances from the streetcars to buy things. People would flock to those retailers that were nearby. In 1966 we bought the Hochschild Kohn department store in Baltimore. We learned quickly that it wasn't going to be a winner, long term, in a very short period of time. We had an antiquated distribution system. We did everything else right. We put in escalators. We gave people more credit. We had a great guy running it, and we still couldn't win. So we sold it around 1970. That store isn't there anymore. It isn't good enough that there were smart people running it."

Buffett said other competitors such as Costco and Walmart could provide better deals while operating on smaller margins, making it hard for Sears and Kmart to compete.

"Costco is working on a 10, 11% gross margin that is better than the Walmarts and Sam's," Buffett said.

"In comparison, department stores have 35% gross margins. It's tough to compete against the best deal for customers. Department stores will keep their old customers that have a habit of shopping there, but they won't pick up new ones."

This is what has happened.

The focus on downsizing the store footprint and becoming resource-light under Lampert didn't translate into sustainable sales or profits; instead, the stores hemorrhaged customers and other retail competitors have lapped both Sears and Kmart.

"How many retailers have really sunk, and then come back?" Buffett said. "Not many. I can't think of any."

He's not called the "Oracle of Omaha" for nothing.

SEE ALSO: Sears will reportedly pursue liquidation

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NOW WATCH: The equity chief at $6.3 trillion BlackRock weighs in on the trade war, a possible recession, and offers her best investing advice for a tricky 2019 landscape

10 highly rated acne spot treatments that online shoppers swear by

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Breakouts are a normal part of most people's skin journeys. Whether you generally have clear skin or have struggled with acne for years, they happen to everyone. Still, breakouts are no less annoying, alarming, or painful every time they do. 

A consistent routine of cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing can keep your skin looking and feeling healthy, but when it comes to pimples that erupt on your skin (or at least feel like they're about to), attacking them early on with a direct spot treatment will help dry them out and calm them down. 

Topical gels, lotions, and stickers are the most common ways to treat these blemishes, and there are tons on the market. However, it's only a small collection of standouts that have proven to be really successful. You can trust that these popular spot treatments have been vetted by us and your fellow shoppers. 

These are 10 of the most popular acne spot treatments you can buy online right now: 

Mario Badescu

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, $17, available at Amazon, Nordstrom, and Ulta

Amazon rating: 4.1 stars from 2,200+ reviews 

Insider Picks senior editor Ellen Hoffman has called this lotion "magic" because it makes pimples disappear overnight. It contains salicylic acid, sulfur, and zinc oxide to quickly and effectively target surface blemishes. 



Mighty Patch

Mighty Patch Hydrocolloid Acne Absorbing Spot Dot (36 count), $11.88, available at Amazon and for $12.99 from Mighty Patch

Mighty Patch Invisible+ (39 count), $17.99, available at Mighty Patch

Amazon rating: 4.3 stars from 500+ reviews 

Insider Picks reporter Mara Leighton and I both swear by this powerful sticker that draws out the fluids from your pimples and protects them from irritation. The new Invisible+ versions are so light and thin that you can get away with wearing them during the day. 

 



TreeActiv

TreeActiv Cystic Acne Spot Treatment, $23.70, available at Amazon

Amazon rating: 4.4 stars from 1,100+ reviews

This treatment contains many beneficial ingredients, most notably bentonite clay, which removes excess oil, reduces inflammation, and balances your skin's oil production. 

 



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Here are the 15 cars people love to keep for a long time — and they're all from Toyota, Honda, and Subaru

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  • Toyotas are popular with people who keep their cars for a long time.
  • According to a recent study by iSeeCars.com, 10 of the 15 models people are most likely to keep for at least 15 years were made by Toyota.
  • Honda and Subaru also had models that made the list.

America has an extensive and long-lasting love affair with the automobile. There are some cars out there that people just wanted to hang on to for a long time. 

That's why the folks at iSeeCars.com recently released a study showing which cars people are most likely to own for more than 15 years. 

"Vehicles that are kept for so many years show that they can stand the test of time and likely don't have to frequently undergo expensive repairs," Phong Ly, iSeeCars's CEO, said in a statement. "Those looking for a reliable and enduring car have a variety of options across all vehicle types."

And the results are overwhelming. People really like their Japanese cars and, more specifically, Toyotas.

Of the 15 cars people are most likely to keep for at least 15 years, 10 are Toyotas, four are made by Honda/Acura, and one is from Subaru. 

That means all 15 models on the list are made by Japanese automakers. 

"Japanese vehicles are known for their quality and reliability, which is reaffirmed by the results of this list," Ly said.

On average, 7.5% of owners held on to their cars for more than 15 years. A handful of Honda/Acura and Toyota models managed to double that figure.

Read more: We drove a $23,000 Volkswagen Jetta to see if it's ready to battle Honda and Toyota. Here's the verdict.

For the study, the automotive research firm looked at more than 750,000 cars, trucks, and SUVs from the model years 1981 to 2003. The firm analyzed sales of these used vehicles between January and December 2018 to see the percentage of sales by the original owner. 

Models with limited sample size, heavy-duty trucks, work vans, and those no longer in production were excluded from the study. 

The results of the study are expressed in the percentage of original owners who kept their vehicles for at least 15 years. 

SEE ALSO: 40 hot cars we can't wait to see in 2019

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15. Toyota Avalon: 10.8% of original owners kept the cars for more than 15 years.



14. Toyota 4Runner: 11.2%



13. Acura MDX: 11.4%



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There are only a couple days left to sign up for AmEx's limited-edition rose gold credit card

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  • When American Express launched its new American Express® Gold Card in October, it also introduced a special, limited-edition rose gold version of the card. 
  • The new design — the regular version of the new Gold Card is a metallic gold — comes in addition to competitive rewards on restaurants and supermarkets in the US, airfare, and more.
  • You can request the rose gold card if you're a new applicant, or currently hold AmEx's previous version of the card, the Premier Rewards Gold. 
  • However, the rose gold version is only available until January 9.
  • New cardholders can also get a unique, limited-time welcome bonus if they apply before the same date.
  • Here's what you need to know about the AmEx Gold Card.

When American Express reintroduced its Gold Card this fall, the card got a fantastic set of improvements to its rewards earning scheme and suite of benefits.

As part of the overhaul, AmEx unveiled a new chic, gold-colored metal version of the card, similar to the Platinum Card's design. AmEx also introduced a limited-edition rose gold variation of the card — it was so popular that AmEx encountered shipping delays.

Current and new users are able request either the regular or the rose gold card. However, the latter option goes away on January 9.

That means that this is the last chance to get the rose gold version of the card.

Also going away January 9: a unique limited-time bonus for new members. If you don't have the Gold Card and open one by then, AmEx will "pick up the tip" when you dine out. During the first three months, new card members will get 20% back on US restaurant charges — in the form of a statement credit — up to $100 total.

Learn more:Amex is issuing a limited-edition rose gold version of its brand-new Gold Card — here's how to request one in 5 minutes

That's in addition to the standard welcome bonus of 25,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $2,000 in the first three months. Some people may be targeted for a higher bonus.

The new Gold Card earns 4x Membership Rewards points per dollar spent at US restaurants, as well as on the first $25,000 spent each calendar year at US supermarkets (and 1x point after that). It also earns 3x points on flights booked directly through the airline, and 1x point on everything else.

That makes it among the most competitive cards for restaurants and supermarkets in the US — since it's possible to get more than 1¢ of value for each Membership Rewards point, the value is more than 4% back.

Learn more: AmEx Platinum cardholders can potentially get the $200 airline fee credit twice in their first year — here's how

The Gold Card features several other benefits, too. Cardholders can get up to $120 in dining credits a year — split into $10 chunks each month — when they use their cards to order food through Grubhub or Seamless, or at The Cheesecake Factory, Ruth's Chris Steak House, and participating Shake Shack locations. That's in addition to a $100 airline fee credit each calendar year.

The card's annual fee is $250, but between the annual credits and the rewards, it should be easy to earn enough value to more than make up for that.

Click here to learn more about the American Express Gold Card from Insider Picks' partner: The Points Guy.

SEE ALSO: The AmEx Platinum is available to active duty servicemembers at no annual fee — but even with the fee, the credit card is a great value

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Here's what happens to food stamps and other federal food programs during the government shutdown

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  • The government shutdown is in its 18th day and there is no end in sight.
  • The US Department of Agriculture will still send out Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, benefits for January despite the shutdown.
  • The USDA's Child Nutrition Programs will also be funded into February, but it is unclear what will happen if the shutdown goes into next month.
  • Other food programs such as Commodity Supplemental Food Program and WIC will not receive federal funding during the shutdown, but may continue using state and local funds.

With no sign of ending anytime soon, the government shutdown is starting to take its toll on federal services and workers. But for recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, also known as food stamps, there is some good news — for now.

According to a plan released by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), SNAP benefits will be available during the start of the shutdown as previously appropriated funding is carried over to meet the needs of the program.

According to the USDA's release SNAP benefits for January will be available, but there was no commitment for February. If the shutdown were to last into next month, it would be by far the longest shutdown since the budget process was reformed in 1974.

But given the fact that President Donald Trump threatened to shut the government down for "months or even years" during a meeting with congressional leaders on Friday, the uncertainty of SNAP benefits beyond January could become a problem soon.

Funding for the USDA's Child Nutrition Programs including "School Lunch, School Breakfast, Child and Adult Care Feeding, Summer Food Service and Special Milk" will also continue into February, according to the USDA's plan.

Read more:Here's what happens to Social Security and disability benefits during a government shutdown»

But while SNAP and the Child Nutrition Program are safe for now, other food programs under the USDA's purview are not as lucky.

Also, other non-SNAP domestic food programs are no longer receiving federal funding, but may be sustained through state and local funding. The programs that are no longer receiving USDA funds include the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, a program focusing on low income seniors; The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children; and the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.

95% the staff at the office of Food and Nutrition Services— which oversees SNAP benefits and other food programs — is now on furlough and no longer receiving pay.

In addition to the food programs, other essential USDA duties including the inspection of eggs, dairy, and other food products will continue. Those services deemed non-essential, such as research or the staffing of some national forests, are discontinued.

The shutdown is now in its 18th day and there is no clear end in sight. Trump administration officials and congressional leaders met over the weekend, but it's unclear if any real progress has been made.

SEE ALSO: Most Americans would rather spend the $5 billion Trump is demanding for the border wall on infrastructure, education, or healthcare

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NOW WATCH: MSNBC host Chris Hayes thinks President Trump's stance on China is 'not at all crazy'

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