Even as an American, I love Eurovision. I just get so invested in it every year. I've become so interested in so many countries and cultures I wouldn't have really been exposed to otherwise-- all because their representative had a song that had me hooked.<br /> <br /> It's been about two months since the 2025 edition wrapped up, but I'm honestly still kinda feeling the sadness of its finality. So, I figured I'd discuss my top 20 of the year! While everybody was talking about how much they hated this year and the songs, I actually thought it was a very strong year: so much variety, with all kinds of different sounds and genres (which is something that has been hard to come by in previous years.)<br /> <br /> 20. Ireland (Laika Party, Emmy) 💚🤍🧡<br /> Unpopular opinion, but... I like Ireland's song! It's reminiscent of the Europop music that helped define the late 90s/early 2000s. While some may call the song disrespectful or tasteless, I would disagree-- I find it sort of sweet that it gives poor Laika the space dog a happy ending.<br /> <br /> 19. Greece (Asteromata, Klavdia) 💙🤍<br /> I'm not usually a ballad fan, but this song is too good to ignore. Klavdia had some of the best live vocals this year and sounded exactly like the recording. It's a beautiful song with a meaningful message and anyone who thinks it didn't deserve 6th place in the final is simply wrong!<br /> <br /> 18. Spain (Esa diva, Melody) 💛❤️<br /> While most people would disagree, I'd say Spain is probably my favorite Big 5 country from the years I've been watching. Some criticize Esa diva for being dated, stale, and "pandering to middle-aged gay men"... guess I'm a middle-aged gay man then!<br /> <br /> 17. Iceland (Róa, VÆB) 💙🤍❤️<br /> It's pure Eurovision silliness at its finest. The song is upbeat, funny, and catchy, and the VÆB brothers have very unique and charismatic energy (and big iPad kid vibes, honestly.) When Róa comes on, I always just kinda want to... laugh. But in a good way!<br /> <br /> 15. Estonia (Espresso Macchiato, Tommy Cash) 💙🖤🤍<br /> Similarly to Iceland's entry, Estonia has sent the kind of song that makes Eurovision, well, Eurovision. Fun, goofy, and only elevated by the iconic staging. Though, I do feel bad for the hate poor Tommy Cash receives online-- he seems like a sweetheart.<br /> <br /> 15. Cyprus (Shh, Theo Evan) 🧡🤍<br /> I'm usually not a big fan of Cyprus' entries, but this is certainly an exception. I really like the techno/industrial elements used in the song, which sets it apart from other dance entries by giving it a darker sound. The staging was among my favorites of the year. (Also love the way he sings, "Who am I?)<br /> <br /> 14. Germany (Baller, Abor & Tynna) 🖤❤️💛<br /> Despite Abor's... strange political and social stances, Germany really knocked it out of the park with this entry. The song and staging both have immaculate clubbing vibes-- we're having a Baller summer this year! I honestly thought it would've scored higher than 15th.<br /> <br /> 13. Poland (GAJA, Justyna Steczkowska) 🤍❤️<br /> Justyna is a true talent-- in a 3-minute performance, she sings, dances, plays violin, and is hoisted mid-air... all at the age of 52! The song itself is very dark and witchy, which... how could I not love that?! Probably deserved higher than 14th.<br /> <br /> 12. UK (What the **** Just Happened?, Remember Monday) 💙🤍❤️<br /> I think the only reason people hate this song so much is because it's a UK entry. The girls of Remember Monday have a cute vibe, their harmonies were on point, and it's truly chaotic, girly fun. The frequent tempo and style changes fit the crazy theme of the entry!<br /> <br /> 11. Malta (Serving Kant, Miriana Conte) 🤍❤️<br /> I'm obsessed with Miriana's entire image. I see a lot of people criticize this song, but I simply think it's too campy for them (and camp isn't for everyone, I guess...) Even with the censorship of the lyrics, the effect is still there, and Miriana really DID serve kant.<i class="twa twa-xlg twa-wink"></i><br /> <br /> 10. Belgium (Strobe Lights, Red Sebastian) 🖤💛❤️<br /> When I say I want to go dancing, this is the kind of music I want to hear. I can't believe people were saying Red Sebastian's vocals in the semi-final were off, because I thought he was great-- I mean, that iconic high note! Still haven't recovered from its non-qualification...<br /> <br /> 9. Australia (Milkshake Man, Go-Jo) 💙🤍❤️<br /> Now THIS is a robbery if I've ever seen one. I find the claims that the staging was underwhelming rather laughable-- anything that involves a GIANT BLENDER cannot possibly be "underwhelming." The song is upbeat, stuffed with ****** innuendo, Go-Jo is fabulous, and all is right here.<br /> <br /> 8. Finland (Ich Komme, Erika Vikman) 🤍💙<br /> I'm a big fan of whatever Finland is doing-- weird, alternative, and and completely unconventional year after year. I'm kind of shocked the only thing that was censored here was Erika's outfit, considering the song is quite explicit (but that's exactly what makes it so awesome!)<br /> <br /> 7. Albania (Zjerm, Shkodra Elektronike) ❤️🖤<br /> We love a good electro-folk song around here. The lyrics are powerful, and the instrumental is heavy and intense... it's hard to not be affected by Zjerm. I couldn't think of a better closing song for Eurovision 2025, and it was criminally underrated by the juries.<br /> <br /> 6. Switzerland (Voyage, Zoë Më) ❤️🤍<br /> This may just take the cake for my all-time favorite Eurovision ballad. This is yearning at its finest... and French at its finest. I'd have to side with the juries for once on this one, this is an extremely underrated and beautiful song... and it never fails to make me emotional.<br /> <br /> 5. Portugal (Deslocado, NAPA) 💚❤️💛<br /> Everyone jumped on the bandwagon after it blew up on TikTok, but I'd been in love with Deslocado since day one. Everybody called it boring and dull, but I obviously disagree... guess you could chalk it up to my love of rock and indie music. Sickening to think it was last in the betting odds for so long!<br /> <br /> 4. Ukraine (Bird of Pray, Ziferblat) 💙💛<br /> I'm sick of the hate for this song! But to be fair, it's not a particularly accessible genre-- I guess 70s-inspired prog rock is a pretty foreign genre to a lot of people. But to say Bird of Pray would be Ukraine's first NQ is hysterical! The song is too good to have ever been that.<br /> <br /> 3. Latvia (Bur man laimi, Tautumeitas) ❤️🤍<br /> It's witchy, it's enchanting, it's literally a song about manifestation. The harmonies are intoxicating, and I'm addicted to playing it on loop. Anyone who calls this beautiful song boring is not someone I'd want to know-- they just don't get it.<br /> <br /> 2. Italy (Volevo essere un duro, Lucio Corsi) 💚🤍❤️<br /> My love for this song is immeasurable. Lucio is essentially Italian David Bowie-- everything from the song to his outfits. I don't think I could ever tire of this entry! I'm a proud Italian-American whenever this one comes on... and I will ALWAYS defend this song from the 12-year-olds on TikTok.<br /> <br /> 1. Lithuania (Tavo akys, Katarsis) 💛💚❤️<br /> A rock fan's *********. Real, genuine, post-punk/grunge at Eurovision... I foam at the mouth for this song and Katarsis. No notes. Perfection.<br /> <br /> And that's my top 20 of Eurovision 2025! Thinking I'll make lists for past years as well, so stay tuned if you're invested...<br /> <br /> <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Entertainment - in Blogs</span>

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(NewsUSA) - Sponsored News - It seems as if there is nothing a smartphone can't do these days. It can get you where you want to go (most of the time), you can make reservations at your favorite restaurant, and now you can use it to detect whether your home is leaking energy or water.<br /> <br /> Thermal imaging, a once-costly technology, available only to the military and police or firefighters, is now just a finger-swipe away with the right attachment to your smartphone, thanks to Seek Thermal, a California-based technology company.<br /> <br /> The way it works is this: the Seek Compact Camera (which is smaller than a credit card swiper for your phone) attaches to your smartphone, turning it into a thermal imager that can then identify hot and cold spots in your house. After downloading a free app, the camera begins working in seconds and homeowners can then easily spot energy loss in the home caused by air leaks, missing or damaged insulation, insufficient HVAC or poor construction. In addition, the thermal imaging camera can also find water in roofs, walls, doors, and window frames.<br /> <br /> According to one user who tested the Seek camera at the end of winter in his own home, the results were "stunning."<br /> <br /> "Within minutes, I was able to detect sources of heat leaking out of my house," he says. "Some of these places are easy to fix, while others would be quite difficult."<br /> <br /> For professional contractors, the Seek CompactPRO is a must-have because the camera has enough sensitivity to locate radiant heating pipes under concrete slabs, identify unsealed insulation gaps in roofs, walls, and door and window frames, and find out how far water has spread in the case of a leak.<br /> <br /> Thinking of buying a home? This little jewel could save you all kinds of unexpected surprises in the form of water leaks in the basement and behind finished walls, and roof leaks that may have been painted over by a homeowner trying to disguise a problem.<br /> <br /> To protect your investment (both the camera and your phone), the Seek Compact has a compatible module for the OtterBox uniVERSE Case System.<br /> <br /> The smartphone attachment is designed to work with both iPhone and Android top models.<br /> <br /> For more information, please visit www.thermal.com. <br /> <br /> Ref: Awesome - in Blogs

(NewsUSA) - The phrase 'six degrees of separation,' suggests that only a minuscule measurement is what divides one person from another. Today, the Internet of Things (IoT) has decreased those degrees dramatically, connecting us not only to each other, but to everything from our fitness trackers to our coffee makers.<br /> <br /> Consider this: according to a recent report by the Federal Trade Commission, the number of Internet-connected devices tops 25 billion worldwide. And that number is expected to double in the next five years, according to experts cited in the report.<br /> <br /> In a world where everyone and everything is connected, digital security is a must-have, just as important as the lock on your front door or the keys to your house.<br /> <br /> "Technology is revolutionizing the way consumers use cars, homes, work spaces and everyday items," Rep. Darrell Issa, R- Calif., told USA Today in a recent interview. "These devices raise both opportunities and questions about regulatory policy, spectrum space, privacy and more."<br /> <br /> Underscoring Issa's concerns are high-profile hacks, including one that took remote control of a Jeep on a busy highway. Experts warn who consumers need to understand that, although convenient, the IoT is an interconnected system, and security is needed to prevent a weakness in one device (like a SmartWatch) from becoming an open door to attack in another device (such as a connected car).<br /> <br /> The good news is that sensitive industries such as banking, government, and healthcare have worked with companies like Gemalto, a global leader in digital security, to solve difficult security challenges. While most may not recognize the name "Gemalto," experts say that almost everyone uses at least one or two of the company's solutions, which are embedded in a wide variety of connected devices, credit cards, passports, and ID badges.<br /> <br /> So, to ensure that your data is protected from hackers, Gemalto recommends the following tips:<br /> <br /> * Secure the device. Sensitive devices need an added layer of protection, such as a SIM card or a tamper-resistant Secure Element that stores data in a safe place.<br /> <br /> * Control the access. Implement two-factor authentication to ensure that only authorized people are granted access to the data.<br /> <br /> * Secure the data. Ensure that sensitive data is encrypted and that encryption keys are stored in a separate and safe place.<br /> <br /> For more information, please visit www.gemalto.com.<br /> <br /> Ref: Codes - in Blogs

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The Importance of Breakfast<br /> <br /> In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can often feel like a daunting task. However, one of the simplest yet most impactful habits you can adopt is starting your day with a nutritious breakfast. This small act not only sets a positive tone for the rest of your day but also provides numerous health benefits that contribute to your overall well-being.<br /> <br /> Why Breakfast Matters<br /> Breakfast is rightly hailed as the most important meal of the day for several reasons. After a night of fasting, your body needs essential nutrients to replenish its energy reserves and kick-start your metabolism. A balanced breakfast fuels your body and mind, improving concentration, mood, and productivity throughout the day. Research consistently shows that people who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight and make better food choices later in the day.<br /> <br /> Components of a Healthy Breakfast<br /> A healthy breakfast should include a variety of nutrients to ensure optimal functioning:<br /> <br /> Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains like oats, whole wheat bread, or quinoa provide sustained energy and fiber, which aids digestion.<br /> <br /> Protein: Eggs, yogurt, nuts, or lean meats offer essential amino acids that help repair and build tissues, support immune function, and keep you feeling full longer.<br /> <br /> Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil provide essential fatty acids that support brain function and heart health.<br /> <br /> Fruits and Vegetables: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants crucial for overall health and disease prevention.<br /> <br /> Tips for a Balanced Breakfast<br /> Plan Ahead: Prepare breakfast items the night before to save time in the morning.<br /> <br /> Avoid Sugary Foods: Opt for whole fruits instead of fruit juices or sugary cereals to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.<br /> <br /> Hydrate: Start your day with a glass of water to hydrate your body after hours of sleep.<br /> <br /> Listen to Your Body: Eat when you feel hungry, and pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating.<br /> <br /> Incorporating Breakfast into Your Routine<br /> If you find it challenging to eat breakfast due to time constraints or lack of appetite in the morning, start with small, manageable portions. Smoothies packed with fruits, vegetables, and protein are convenient options for those on the go. Alternatively, try incorporating breakfast foods into your mid-morning snack, such as yogurt with granola or a piece of whole fruit.<br /> <br /> Conclusion<br /> By making breakfast a priority in your daily routine, you not only enhance your physical health but also boost your mental and emotional well-being. Remember, a healthy lifestyle is built on consistent habits, and breakfast is a cornerstone that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Embrace this simple yet powerful practice, and watch as it transforms your energy levels, focus, and overall quality of life. <span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Health - in Blogs</span>

Beyond Ordinary Beaches: Solo Camping at Bukit Pengilon, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta<br /><br />Have you ever found yourself sitting idle, wondering where to go for your next adventure? The beach sounds appealing, but you want something different from the typical coastal experience. If this resonates with you, then you're in the same boat as I was, and I have the perfect solution to share.<br />Currently staying in Yogyakarta, I decided to explore one of the region's coastal gems. Yogyakarta is renowned for its stunning beaches, particularly in the Gunung Kidul area, which has undergone massive road infrastructure development in recent years. Access to Gunung Kidul from Yogyakarta city has become remarkably convenient and relatively quick. Among the coastal destinations in Gunung Kidul, my choice this time was Bukit Pengilon Beach.<br /><br />A Beach Unlike Any Other<br />Bukit Pengilon isn't your typical Gunung Kidul beach with pristine white sand perfect for water activities. Instead, it offers a breathtaking panorama of ocean views, coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and dramatic cliffs. The seascape from this vantage point is absolutely captivating, and I can confidently say that Bukit Pengilon ranks as the most beautiful beach in Yogyakarta. If you're visiting Yogya, you must experience this destination at least once.<br /><br />My Solo Camping Adventure<br />My beach getaway took place on May 30, 2025, and I planned an overnight camping trip to fully immerse myself in Bukit Pengilon's stunning scenery. This was a solo camping adventure, as none of my friends were available to join me at the time. I frequently embark on solo outdoor activities like camping because I genuinely enjoy the tranquility and peace that nature provides.<br /><br />Getting There<br />My journey began from Kaliurang, Sleman, Yogyakarta at 5:30 AM, arriving at Bukit Pengilon by 8:00 AM. The 2.5-hour drive passed smoothly despite moderate traffic conditions.<br /><br />Bukit Pengilon is accessible by both motorcycle and car, though cars cannot reach the main entrance directly. Car travelers must park at the designated area before the tourist site and either walk or hire local ojek (motorcycle taxi) services provided by village residents. The route from the parking area to the tourist site is quite challenging and steep, so motorcyclists should exercise caution.<br />Cost breakdown:<br /><br />Beach area entrance: IDR 8,000<br />Overnight motorcycle parking: IDR 10,000<br />Tourist site entry: IDR 2,000<br />Camping fee: IDR 20,000<br /><br />Optimal Visiting Times<br />The best times to visit Bukit Pengilon are during morning or late afternoon hours. Morning visits offer cooler sunlight and optimal lighting conditions for photography enthusiasts. As the sun climbs higher, temperatures can become uncomfortably hot for some visitors. Midday photography isn't ideal due to harsh lighting that diminishes the coastal panorama's visual impact.<br />If you have ample free time, consider staying until sunset, as the evening panorama is truly enchanting, especially by Yogyakarta standards.<br /><br />The Magic of Overnight Camping<br />For those with extended leisure time, I highly recommend experiencing this beach through overnight camping. Spending a full night at the coast proved surprisingly delightful and beautiful. You can enjoy your time while gazing at billions of stars overhead, accompanied by the rhythmic symphony of crashing waves.<br /><br />Stargazing Paradise<br />Astrophotography enthusiasts will find Bukit Pengilon an excellent choice for pursuing their passion. The starry panorama at Bukit Pengilon is absolutely magnificent. You can observe various stellar constellations including Scorpion, Ursa Major, and many others. Such pristine starry views are increasingly rare in Yogyakarta, particularly in urban areas where light pollution obscures celestial visibility.<br /><br />Why Bukit Pengilon Should Be Your Next Destination<br />After reading this account, I'm confident you'll be inspired to make this beach your next travel destination in Yogyakarta. Bukit Pengilon offers a unique coastal experience that transcends ordinary beach visits, combining natural beauty with adventure and tranquility.<br /><br />Whether you're seeking stunning photography opportunities, peaceful solitude, or an unforgettable stargazing experience, Bukit Pengilon delivers an extraordinary coastal adventure that will leave lasting memories.<br />Have you had similar experiences or questions about visiting Bukit Pengilon? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!

(NewsUSA) - In 1967, one of today's most iconic runners made her mark in history.<br /> <br /> Despite an angry official who tried to push her off the course of the Boston Marathon, Kathrine Switzer defiantly ran on, broke barriers and became the first woman to officially complete the legendary race.<br /> <br /> Today, at the age of 70, Switzer continues to defy the odds.<br /> <br /> This year, she ran the 26.2-mile Boston Marathon again to celebrate the 50th anniversary of her historic milestone and continued to inspire others to break new ground. She also announced a partnership with the health and well-being company, Humana, to help celebrate seniors, encourage them to take an optimistic view of aging, and live healthy, active lifestyles.<br /> <br /> "When the Boston Marathon race director tried to shove me off the course in 1967, my life's purpose was crystalized. I knew I wanted to be a champion for others committed to blazing their own path," Switzer says.<br /> <br /> "I'm working with Humana to inspire seniors to achieve their best health, so they can experience all that life has to offer."<br /> <br /> Switzer shared tips on how she maintains an optimistic outlook on aging, and why she believes that great things are ahead when your health is ready -- no matter what age you are!<br /> <br /> Don't let your age define you.<br /> <br /> The biggest tip is to realize that you're never too old, too slow or too out-of-shape to begin living an active lifestyle. Whether it's walking the dog a bit further than usual, or taking a swim at the local health club -; finding ways to get active can help you live healthier and be more optimistic.<br /> <br /> Take it one step at a time. Allow time to adjust to a new routine. Start small and build on your efforts in small intervals. Listen to your body and be proud of your progress.<br /> <br /> Two is better than one. To help you stay motivated, get a buddy who has similar fitness goals. If a buddy is waiting for you, you won't worry about being embarrassed or feeling slow; it'll just be the two of you. There are few things greater than sharing victories and accomplishments with someone close.<br /> <br /> Make time for rest. Equally as important as staying active is ensuring that your body recovers from the stress endured from physical activity. Not only will your body thank you, but you will grow to love your active lifestyle more without aches and pains holding you back.<br /> <br /> Switzer recently took her message to the National Senior Games presented by Humana, one example of how the company is committed to championing seniors and breaking barriers -- namely, the stereotypes associated with seniors in today's society -- and proving that with a healthy body and mind, age is truly just a number. While at the Games, she participated in the 10K Road Race in a celebratory role and presented an inspiring and encouraging speech at the Celebration of Athletes.<br /> <br /> In addition to being a fierce advocate for seniors and optimistic aging, Switzer has been a lifelong advocate for women runners in general.<br /> <br /> In 1972, she co-founded the first women's-only road race; in 1984, she led the drive to get the women's marathon into the Olympic Games; and in 2015, she founded 261 Fearless, a global non-profit that empowers and connects women through the transformative action of running, and encouraging them to overcome life obstacles and embrace healthy living.<br /> <br /> "I think optimism is everything and you don't have to be a marathon runner to possess it," Switzer says.<br /> <br /> "The more you do, the more you can do!"<br /> <br /> Ref: Competitions - in Blogs