Ballet dancers in random situations

This incredible photography series by Jordan Matter illustrates the unbelievable talent of ballet dancers. Set in random situations, the elegance of the dancers contrasts starkly with their mundane background.
It’s an amazing tribute to the skill and grace of this beautiful and elegant art form.

Seattle – Claire Conaty

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Towson, MD – Rachel Bell

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Sarasota, FL – Danielle Brown

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Times Square, NYC – Jeffrey Smith

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Chicago – Angela Dice and Demetrius McClendon

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San Francisco – Sharon Gallagher

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Baltimore – Rachel Bell

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Times Square, NYC – Michael Jagger and Evita Arce

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Santa Monica, CA – Jill Wilson and Jacob Jonas

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Washington, DC – Sun Chong, with his mother

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New York City – Luke McCollum

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Central Park, NYC – Jason Macdonald

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Macys, NYC – Annmaria Mazzini

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VIP Heliport, NYC – Marcella Guarino

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Columbus Circle, NYC – Michelle Fleet

Source Lost Manor

About the Author

Rebekah is a graphic design student living in South Carolina obsessed with all things design, technology, and J. Crew. When she’s not frantically working on projects for class, you can usually find her drinking large amounts of coffee with her laptop close beside.

See more from Rebekah Rhoden

Ballet dancers in random situations

This incredible photography series by Jordan Matter illustrates the unbelievable talent of ballet dancers. Set in random situations, the elegance of the dancers contrasts starkly with their mundane background.
It’s an amazing tribute to the skill and grace of this beautiful and elegant art form.

Seattle – Claire Conaty

+

Towson, MD – Rachel Bell

+

Sarasota, FL – Danielle Brown

+

Times Square, NYC – Jeffrey Smith

+

Chicago – Angela Dice and Demetrius McClendon

+

San Francisco – Sharon Gallagher

+

Baltimore – Rachel Bell

+

Times Square, NYC – Michael Jagger and Evita Arce

+

Santa Monica, CA – Jill Wilson and Jacob Jonas

+

Washington, DC – Sun Chong, with his mother

+

New York City – Luke McCollum

+

Central Park, NYC – Jason Macdonald

+

Macys, NYC – Annmaria Mazzini

+

VIP Heliport, NYC – Marcella Guarino

+

Columbus Circle, NYC – Michelle Fleet

Source Lost Manor

About the Author

Rebekah is a graphic design student living in South Carolina obsessed with all things design, technology, and J. Crew. When she’s not frantically working on projects for class, you can usually find her drinking large amounts of coffee with her laptop close beside.

See more from Rebekah Rhoden

Our Gut is our ‘Second Brain’: It Affects Mood and Health More than You Know

There are millions of neurons lining your gut almost as extensively as in your brain – do you think that might have something to do with your mood, your ‘intelligence’, and your overall health? Sometimes called the enteric nervous system, the stomach and intestines have a lot to say about how you feel, or how you ‘stomach’ emotions in general, as well as how well your body fends off unwelcome guests.

The enteric nervous system is so intelligent, in fact, that it houses entire networks of neurotransmitters and special proteins that tell the rest of the body what’s going down – quite literally. It is so wise, that it can operate distinctly from the brain and spinal nerves, and quite often does. Just think of the last time you ate something that didn’t agree with you. Your brain probably didn’t override a sudden urge to purge. Your enteric ‘brain’ knew to get that unsavory meal out of you as fast as possible to prohibit an even more unappealing outcome.

Did you also know that the gut produces more serotonin, the well-known happy hormone, than the brain does? 95% of all serotonin lives in the gut, not in the head. A big part of how we feel every day is truly related to our gut’s feeling, as it digests through the daily grind, our food as well as our food for thought. In fact, irritable bowel syndrome is caused by an imbalance of serotonin in the gut, and is sometimes called the ‘mental illness’ of the brain. We cannot experience an emotion or think a thought without a biological correlation. The brain-gut axis is deeply moved by our daily emotions.

Going further, our gut health is also key to our immunity. Actually, it’s been said that gut flora makes up about 80% of our immunity, and is especially important for infants to bypass illness. Millions of tiny benevolent bacteria live in our large and small intestines as well as our stomachs, and they help to fend off bad bacteria, which can cause disease and even multiple types of cancer. Often called the ‘second brain,’ our gut is more important than we ever might have suspected.

So how do you ensure a healthy gut? Antibiotics are a major player in the destruction of gut health as they destroy both the bad and good bacteria, so it’s important to avoid antibiotics whenever possible. Luckily, there are numerous natural antibiotics that can be utilized for remedying various resistant infections. In addition to avoiding antibiotics, try implementing these 4 ways to improve gut health.

Additional Resources: ScientificAmerican

Our Gut is our ‘Second Brain’: It Affects Mood and Health More than You Know

There are millions of neurons lining your gut almost as extensively as in your brain – do you think that might have something to do with your mood, your ‘intelligence’, and your overall health? Sometimes called the enteric nervous system, the stomach and intestines have a lot to say about how you feel, or how you ‘stomach’ emotions in general, as well as how well your body fends off unwelcome guests.

The enteric nervous system is so intelligent, in fact, that it houses entire networks of neurotransmitters and special proteins that tell the rest of the body what’s going down – quite literally. It is so wise, that it can operate distinctly from the brain and spinal nerves, and quite often does. Just think of the last time you ate something that didn’t agree with you. Your brain probably didn’t override a sudden urge to purge. Your enteric ‘brain’ knew to get that unsavory meal out of you as fast as possible to prohibit an even more unappealing outcome.

Did you also know that the gut produces more serotonin, the well-known happy hormone, than the brain does? 95% of all serotonin lives in the gut, not in the head. A big part of how we feel every day is truly related to our gut’s feeling, as it digests through the daily grind, our food as well as our food for thought. In fact, irritable bowel syndrome is caused by an imbalance of serotonin in the gut, and is sometimes called the ‘mental illness’ of the brain. We cannot experience an emotion or think a thought without a biological correlation. The brain-gut axis is deeply moved by our daily emotions.

Going further, our gut health is also key to our immunity. Actually, it’s been said that gut flora makes up about 80% of our immunity, and is especially important for infants to bypass illness. Millions of tiny benevolent bacteria live in our large and small intestines as well as our stomachs, and they help to fend off bad bacteria, which can cause disease and even multiple types of cancer. Often called the ‘second brain,’ our gut is more important than we ever might have suspected.

So how do you ensure a healthy gut? Antibiotics are a major player in the destruction of gut health as they destroy both the bad and good bacteria, so it’s important to avoid antibiotics whenever possible. Luckily, there are numerous natural antibiotics that can be utilized for remedying various resistant infections. In addition to avoiding antibiotics, try implementing these 4 ways to improve gut health.

Additional Resources: ScientificAmerican

10 Surprising Things All Wives Should Know About Their Husbands

 Whether you recently said "I do" or just celebrated a double-digit anniversary, you can probably spout off a lot of info about your husband-his middle name, where he was born, his favorite food. But knowing these 10 other things can bring you closer than ever. Find out why, and try these relationship strategies to ensure your husband is anything but a mystery. Photo by Getty Images

1. When He Needs Space

Sharing office news, the kids' schedules and the latest neighborhood drama as soon as your husband walks in the door each night can backfire. "Most women want to immediately connect at the end of the day. For a lot of guys, they need their space more than ever then," says Les Parrott III, PhD, a psychology professor and co-author (with wife and marriage therapist Leslie Parrott, EdD) of The Good Fight: How Conflict Can Bring You Closer. Give your hubby a few minutes to unwind when he comes home. You're more likely to get his undivided attention if you wait.

2. When He's Really Listening
If it seems like your husband constantly tunes you out, consider this: Men may look at other areas of the room while still paying attention, according to Deborah Tannen, author of You Just Don't Understand: Women and Men in Conversation, who reviewed videotapes of same-sex best friends talking. Rather than focus on where your husband's gaze lands during conversations, note how he responds to you. If your words are truly falling on deaf ears, Rachel A. Sussman, a relationship specialist and author of The Breakup Bible, suggests gently telling him you feel he isn't listening; then, let him respond. "Don't accuse or blame him," she advises.

3. The Most Productive Way to Fight…
Arguments happen in any good marriage. But there's a wrong and right way to fight. Through a study conducted to predict how long couples would stay married, researchers discovered, not surprisingly, that yelling during fights often led to divorce-but so did approaching arguments differently from one's spouse (say, one spoke calmly and the other avoided the conversation). "Ask yourself, 'When would I want to have this conversation?'" suggests Sussman. "Then, think about what might work best for your husband." Assessing both your moods can help you pinpoint the best time for a constructive argument.

  4. …And When an Argument is Going Nowhere
For some disagreements, there's just no productive way to fight it out. To find out if you're gearing up for a purposeful fight, rate the importance of the topic. If it's a core value-like how to raise your children or which city to live in-rank it highly. If it's not-like the color of a new bedspread or what to have for dinner-it may not be worth an argument. Next, determine if you and your husband are ready for the discussion. If either of you are "tired, hungry or distracted, don't get into a conversation about something important," Dr. Leslie Parrott advises.

5. Which Topics Set Him Off
Maybe it's talking about his mom's flavorless cooking-or his late nights at work. Dr. Les Parrott says it's important to "know where the emotional landmines are. If you step on one, you can expect an explosion," he says. But you can't avoid all "hot topics." "Find the right space and time to talk about these issues," he suggests. Plus, try to understand your husband's side, and then approach him in a non-threatening way. You might say, "I'm not looking to upset you; I'm just looking for a solution to an issue that's causing me a lot of pain," Sussman offers.

6. How (and When) to Be His Support System
Couples who say they have strong spousal support and face daily stress have 50% higher rates of marriage satisfaction, according to a 2012 study. While wives equate affection and warmth with support, husbands feel supported when they're appreciated, needed and receiving offers to help with errands. Not sure if your hubby needs you? Ask him. "Mindreading is outlawed," says Jackie Black, PhD, a board-certified couples' coach and author of Meeting Your Match: Cracking the Code to Successful Relationships. Volunteer to tackle some tasks on his list so he can recharge. And tell him how much you appreciate him as a partner to give him a boost.

7. When He's Not Loving Your Love Life
If your man isn't showing signs he wants to have sex-perhaps he usually kisses your neck or gives you a telltale look-then it's time to rekindle the fire. Dr. Leslie Parrott says couples reconnect when they try out-of-the-box activities together. "Women experience intimacy through communication, so we often underplay sharing something novel," she says. Plan a date that'll get you both in the mood. Some ideas: Sign up for a race, head to the museum or take a cooking class to, ahem, turn up the heat.

8. How He Views His Role as Husband and Father
Whether it's just you two or you plus kids, you and your husband have equally important family roles. And it's vital that you recognize how he views his part and respect it. "Of course that's a two-way street, but it's even more important for men," says Dr. Les Parrott, who adds that respecting his role helps him feel close to you. Fight the urge to cast your husband into specific parts without his input. And keep in mind that you don't always have to be in sync with parenting. "Differences in temperament and style are key to parents' success and the enjoyment of parenting," Dr. Black says.

9. What His Dream Job (or Vacation or Car) Is
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life, but happy couples discuss "each other's hopes and dreams to build and sustain intimacy," says Dr. Black. Make it a point to regularly talk to your husband about, well, him. Find out his career goals for the next few years-or just hear about his favorite book, TV show or food of the moment. Then, reciprocate by telling him more about you. Communication helps you grow with each other instead of apart.

10. That You Don't Know Everything About Him
No matter how much you communicate with your husband, you can never completely know him, and that's OK. "It's never good to believe you know anything about your partner for sure and therefore not ask," says Dr. Black. "It's vital that you and your husband continually get to know each other," adds Sussman. "If you're growing, you have to continue to catch up with each other." That means there's at least one enjoyable thing you can do each week: get to know-and fall in love with-your husband all over again.

Source   Shine

10 Surprising Things All Wives Should Know About Their Husbands

 Whether you recently said "I do" or just celebrated a double-digit anniversary, you can probably spout off a lot of info about your husband-his middle name, where he was born, his favorite food. But knowing these 10 other things can bring you closer than ever. Find out why, and try these relationship strategies to ensure your husband is anything but a mystery. Photo by Getty Images

1. When He Needs Space

Sharing office news, the kids' schedules and the latest neighborhood drama as soon as your husband walks in the door each night can backfire. "Most women want to immediately connect at the end of the day. For a lot of guys, they need their space more than ever then," says Les Parrott III, PhD, a psychology professor and co-author (with wife and marriage therapist Leslie Parrott, EdD) of The Good Fight: How Conflict Can Bring You Closer. Give your hubby a few minutes to unwind when he comes home. You're more likely to get his undivided attention if you wait.

2. When He's Really Listening
If it seems like your husband constantly tunes you out, consider this: Men may look at other areas of the room while still paying attention, according to Deborah Tannen, author of You Just Don't Understand: Women and Men in Conversation, who reviewed videotapes of same-sex best friends talking. Rather than focus on where your husband's gaze lands during conversations, note how he responds to you. If your words are truly falling on deaf ears, Rachel A. Sussman, a relationship specialist and author of The Breakup Bible, suggests gently telling him you feel he isn't listening; then, let him respond. "Don't accuse or blame him," she advises.

3. The Most Productive Way to Fight…
Arguments happen in any good marriage. But there's a wrong and right way to fight. Through a study conducted to predict how long couples would stay married, researchers discovered, not surprisingly, that yelling during fights often led to divorce-but so did approaching arguments differently from one's spouse (say, one spoke calmly and the other avoided the conversation). "Ask yourself, 'When would I want to have this conversation?'" suggests Sussman. "Then, think about what might work best for your husband." Assessing both your moods can help you pinpoint the best time for a constructive argument.

  4. …And When an Argument is Going Nowhere
For some disagreements, there's just no productive way to fight it out. To find out if you're gearing up for a purposeful fight, rate the importance of the topic. If it's a core value-like how to raise your children or which city to live in-rank it highly. If it's not-like the color of a new bedspread or what to have for dinner-it may not be worth an argument. Next, determine if you and your husband are ready for the discussion. If either of you are "tired, hungry or distracted, don't get into a conversation about something important," Dr. Leslie Parrott advises.

5. Which Topics Set Him Off
Maybe it's talking about his mom's flavorless cooking-or his late nights at work. Dr. Les Parrott says it's important to "know where the emotional landmines are. If you step on one, you can expect an explosion," he says. But you can't avoid all "hot topics." "Find the right space and time to talk about these issues," he suggests. Plus, try to understand your husband's side, and then approach him in a non-threatening way. You might say, "I'm not looking to upset you; I'm just looking for a solution to an issue that's causing me a lot of pain," Sussman offers.

6. How (and When) to Be His Support System
Couples who say they have strong spousal support and face daily stress have 50% higher rates of marriage satisfaction, according to a 2012 study. While wives equate affection and warmth with support, husbands feel supported when they're appreciated, needed and receiving offers to help with errands. Not sure if your hubby needs you? Ask him. "Mindreading is outlawed," says Jackie Black, PhD, a board-certified couples' coach and author of Meeting Your Match: Cracking the Code to Successful Relationships. Volunteer to tackle some tasks on his list so he can recharge. And tell him how much you appreciate him as a partner to give him a boost.

7. When He's Not Loving Your Love Life
If your man isn't showing signs he wants to have sex-perhaps he usually kisses your neck or gives you a telltale look-then it's time to rekindle the fire. Dr. Leslie Parrott says couples reconnect when they try out-of-the-box activities together. "Women experience intimacy through communication, so we often underplay sharing something novel," she says. Plan a date that'll get you both in the mood. Some ideas: Sign up for a race, head to the museum or take a cooking class to, ahem, turn up the heat.

8. How He Views His Role as Husband and Father
Whether it's just you two or you plus kids, you and your husband have equally important family roles. And it's vital that you recognize how he views his part and respect it. "Of course that's a two-way street, but it's even more important for men," says Dr. Les Parrott, who adds that respecting his role helps him feel close to you. Fight the urge to cast your husband into specific parts without his input. And keep in mind that you don't always have to be in sync with parenting. "Differences in temperament and style are key to parents' success and the enjoyment of parenting," Dr. Black says.

9. What His Dream Job (or Vacation or Car) Is
It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life, but happy couples discuss "each other's hopes and dreams to build and sustain intimacy," says Dr. Black. Make it a point to regularly talk to your husband about, well, him. Find out his career goals for the next few years-or just hear about his favorite book, TV show or food of the moment. Then, reciprocate by telling him more about you. Communication helps you grow with each other instead of apart.

10. That You Don't Know Everything About Him
No matter how much you communicate with your husband, you can never completely know him, and that's OK. "It's never good to believe you know anything about your partner for sure and therefore not ask," says Dr. Black. "It's vital that you and your husband continually get to know each other," adds Sussman. "If you're growing, you have to continue to catch up with each other." That means there's at least one enjoyable thing you can do each week: get to know-and fall in love with-your husband all over again.

Source   Shine

This Dangerous Chemical in Hair Products is Causing Serious Health Problems

Brazilian Blowout, a haircare product, has recently been found to be so dangerous that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may ban it from the market entirely. The United States would not be the first nation to place a ban on the product. Australia, Germany, France, Ireland, and Canada already have already taken legislative action against Brazilian Blowout. The FDA is giving Brazilian Blowout’s manufacturer until mid-September to remove a toxic chemical from its formula.

The main ingredient found in Brazilian Blowout is formaldehyde, an extremely dangerous chemical. This chemical has been known to cause nervous system disorders, chest pain, vomiting, rashes, and other health conditions. While the Cosmetics Ingredient Review Expert Panel considers the amount of 0.2% of formaldehyde to be “safe,” some Brazilian Blowout samples contained up to 10.7%. Surprisingly enough, the product incorrectly states “No Formaldehyde” or “Formaldehyde Free”

Brazilian Blowout straightening treatment can last up to 12 weeks, according to the company website. With looks and glamour being more important than ever today, a little compromise of health for everlasting beauty doesn’t seem to phase many. Unfortunately, the harmful effects stemming from formaldehyde can be devastating for a salon worker who is exposed on a daily basis. A report from the Environmental Working Group determined that 68% of top US salons use “formaldehyde-based hair solutions”.

Additional Sources:  The Huffington Post

This Dangerous Chemical in Hair Products is Causing Serious Health Problems

Brazilian Blowout, a haircare product, has recently been found to be so dangerous that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may ban it from the market entirely. The United States would not be the first nation to place a ban on the product. Australia, Germany, France, Ireland, and Canada already have already taken legislative action against Brazilian Blowout. The FDA is giving Brazilian Blowout’s manufacturer until mid-September to remove a toxic chemical from its formula.

The main ingredient found in Brazilian Blowout is formaldehyde, an extremely dangerous chemical. This chemical has been known to cause nervous system disorders, chest pain, vomiting, rashes, and other health conditions. While the Cosmetics Ingredient Review Expert Panel considers the amount of 0.2% of formaldehyde to be “safe,” some Brazilian Blowout samples contained up to 10.7%. Surprisingly enough, the product incorrectly states “No Formaldehyde” or “Formaldehyde Free”

Brazilian Blowout straightening treatment can last up to 12 weeks, according to the company website. With looks and glamour being more important than ever today, a little compromise of health for everlasting beauty doesn’t seem to phase many. Unfortunately, the harmful effects stemming from formaldehyde can be devastating for a salon worker who is exposed on a daily basis. A report from the Environmental Working Group determined that 68% of top US salons use “formaldehyde-based hair solutions”.

Additional Sources:  The Huffington Post

They thought they were getting a job interview, but they got this instead

Job interviews are rarely stress-free. Acting professional, shaking hands firmly, and speaking clearly all become difficult tasks when a job is on the line. So when you see the apocalypse happening outside your potential boss’s window, it’s perfectly natural to freak out a little.

That’s exactly what happened to four candidates at LG Electronics in Chile—or at least, it’s what they thought was happening. Actually, the electronics giant had replaced the window in the room with an 84-inch HD television, which it used to show a very realistic mammoth meteor destroying all of civilization. As the cloud of rubble and debris seemed to near the office building, the room shook and the lights cut out.

What happened next was hilarious—to everyone except the interviewees, who weren’t all relieved to learn it was just a prank.

They thought they were getting a job interview, but they got this instead

Job interviews are rarely stress-free. Acting professional, shaking hands firmly, and speaking clearly all become difficult tasks when a job is on the line. So when you see the apocalypse happening outside your potential boss’s window, it’s perfectly natural to freak out a little.

That’s exactly what happened to four candidates at LG Electronics in Chile—or at least, it’s what they thought was happening. Actually, the electronics giant had replaced the window in the room with an 84-inch HD television, which it used to show a very realistic mammoth meteor destroying all of civilization. As the cloud of rubble and debris seemed to near the office building, the room shook and the lights cut out.

What happened next was hilarious—to everyone except the interviewees, who weren’t all relieved to learn it was just a prank.

These 18 Pictures are Not What You Think. They Will Blow Your Mind.

Some paintings seem SO real, you can’t believe someone was talented enough to create them. Then, some paintings seem SO real you can’t even tell they are paintings. Below are 18 of the most amazing works of art you won’t be able to tell are 100% handmade and NOT photographs. These 18 artists are so talented, they’ll leave your jaw on the floor.

1. Omar Ortiz

2. Paul Cadden

3. Kamalky Laureano

4. Gregory Thielker

5. Lee Price

6. Ben Weiner

7. Ron Mueck

8. Kim Ji-hoon

9. Ray Hare

10. Pedro Campos

11. Dirk Dzimirsky

12. Thomas Arvid

13. Samuel Silva

14. Gottfried Helnwein

15. Mike Bayne

16. Robert Longo

17. Diego Fazio

18. Bryan Drury

Source

These 18 Pictures are Not What You Think. They Will Blow Your Mind.

Some paintings seem SO real, you can’t believe someone was talented enough to create them. Then, some paintings seem SO real you can’t even tell they are paintings. Below are 18 of the most amazing works of art you won’t be able to tell are 100% handmade and NOT photographs. These 18 artists are so talented, they’ll leave your jaw on the floor.

1. Omar Ortiz

2. Paul Cadden

3. Kamalky Laureano

4. Gregory Thielker

5. Lee Price

6. Ben Weiner

7. Ron Mueck

8. Kim Ji-hoon

9. Ray Hare

10. Pedro Campos

11. Dirk Dzimirsky

12. Thomas Arvid

13. Samuel Silva

14. Gottfried Helnwein

15. Mike Bayne

16. Robert Longo

17. Diego Fazio

18. Bryan Drury

Source

10 Technologies in Back to the Future II That Actually Came True

The film Back to the Future II takes place mostly in the future of 2015. With only two years left before the rest of us get to experience that future, it seems like a good time for an audit. Granted, some of the predictions made in the film were a little over the top (but who knows, maybe hipsters will make double ties popular). While I'm still waiting for my hoverboard, many of the predictions made in the 1989 classic actually came true.

10. Handheld computer tablets

Remember that funny little thing called the iPad that came out in 2010? You know, that device that revolutionized personal computing? In this scene a member of the Hill Valley Preservation Society tries to get Marty to donate money using a handheld computer. If anything, the version shown in the movie looks more clunky that the tablets of today. Looks like that prediction passed. Now go do something awesome with your tablet like save historical sites, or play Candy Crush.

9. Flat screen TVs

Not only do we have flat screens, but many different satellite and cable providers let you watch multiple shows at once. And not just on our TV, with the internet and streaming services we can watch multiple shows on our computer, our TV, or even on our tablet or smartphone.

8. Video billboards

In Back to the Future’s world of tomorrow, video advertisements are everywhere. With new LED billboards, this is rapidly becoming a reality. Now if we could only have holograms.

7. Small, thin cameras

I doubt if many people imagined just how much cameras would be a part of our everyday lives. Not only do we have tiny digital cameras, we even have cameras in our phones and tablets. Doc Brown’s camera seems a bit outdated in comparison. But, maybe he’s trying to be retro.

6. Video conferencing

Back to the Future was one of many films and shows made during the 80s and 90s that predicted video communication. Thanks to programs like Skype, it’s not only possible, it’s available on everything from your TV to your tablet to your smartphone. They did get it wrong with fax machines though, which were popular just about as long as laser disks and pagers. Too bad they couldn't see email comming.

5. Voice Controlled Computers

Marty orders a Pepsi from a robotic computer screen when he stops by Café ‘80s. Thanks to dozens of different computer applications, most recently Siri, that has become a reality. What doesn’t make sense is why you would want an ‘80s themed diner.

4. Computer/TV Visors

At the future McFly residence, both Marty and Marlene watch TV on personal visors. They can also tell when someone is calling and who it is from the same device. While TV glasses have made several attempts at being popular, they haven’t ever seemed to get very far. Google is trying to change that with Google Glass, which will allow you to get directions, do video conferencing, watch videos, surf the internet, record videos, and more.

3. 3D Videos (and ridiculous amounts of sequels)

They might not be holographic, but 3D movies are a definite reality today. But only time will tell if they are here to stay or nothing more than a passing fad. One thing is for sure, ridiculous amounts of sequels are popular. Just look at how popular movies like Saw 7 (in 3D) and Fast and Furious 6 have been.

2. Game Controls

When Marty goes to Café '80s he meets two kids and decides to show off by playing the Nintendo game Wild Gunman. But, young Frodo and his friend are unimpressed. “You mean you have to use your hands?” they exclaim, “That’s like a baby’s toy!” Whatever technology they hinted at might have been beyond what most people could have dreamed up back then, but today its commonplace. Devices like the Microsoft Kinect not only allow you to use your whole body as a controller, now even your voice is used to control your Xbox.

1. Flying Cars

Okay, this one is a bit of a stretch. It’s true that flying cars aren’t as common as portrayed in the movie, but the concept of a flying car has been in the works for quite a few years now. The Moller Skycar is one of many prototypes that is aimed at being a means of transport for anyone who can drive.

A surprising number of 1980s predictions actually did come true, and some of them have even been better than what Hollywood was able to dream up. All we need now is the hoverboard.

10 Technologies in Back to the Future II That Actually Came True

The film Back to the Future II takes place mostly in the future of 2015. With only two years left before the rest of us get to experience that future, it seems like a good time for an audit. Granted, some of the predictions made in the film were a little over the top (but who knows, maybe hipsters will make double ties popular). While I'm still waiting for my hoverboard, many of the predictions made in the 1989 classic actually came true.

10. Handheld computer tablets

Remember that funny little thing called the iPad that came out in 2010? You know, that device that revolutionized personal computing? In this scene a member of the Hill Valley Preservation Society tries to get Marty to donate money using a handheld computer. If anything, the version shown in the movie looks more clunky that the tablets of today. Looks like that prediction passed. Now go do something awesome with your tablet like save historical sites, or play Candy Crush.

9. Flat screen TVs

Not only do we have flat screens, but many different satellite and cable providers let you watch multiple shows at once. And not just on our TV, with the internet and streaming services we can watch multiple shows on our computer, our TV, or even on our tablet or smartphone.

8. Video billboards

In Back to the Future’s world of tomorrow, video advertisements are everywhere. With new LED billboards, this is rapidly becoming a reality. Now if we could only have holograms.

7. Small, thin cameras

I doubt if many people imagined just how much cameras would be a part of our everyday lives. Not only do we have tiny digital cameras, we even have cameras in our phones and tablets. Doc Brown’s camera seems a bit outdated in comparison. But, maybe he’s trying to be retro.

6. Video conferencing

Back to the Future was one of many films and shows made during the 80s and 90s that predicted video communication. Thanks to programs like Skype, it’s not only possible, it’s available on everything from your TV to your tablet to your smartphone. They did get it wrong with fax machines though, which were popular just about as long as laser disks and pagers. Too bad they couldn't see email comming.

5. Voice Controlled Computers

Marty orders a Pepsi from a robotic computer screen when he stops by Café ‘80s. Thanks to dozens of different computer applications, most recently Siri, that has become a reality. What doesn’t make sense is why you would want an ‘80s themed diner.

4. Computer/TV Visors

At the future McFly residence, both Marty and Marlene watch TV on personal visors. They can also tell when someone is calling and who it is from the same device. While TV glasses have made several attempts at being popular, they haven’t ever seemed to get very far. Google is trying to change that with Google Glass, which will allow you to get directions, do video conferencing, watch videos, surf the internet, record videos, and more.

3. 3D Videos (and ridiculous amounts of sequels)

They might not be holographic, but 3D movies are a definite reality today. But only time will tell if they are here to stay or nothing more than a passing fad. One thing is for sure, ridiculous amounts of sequels are popular. Just look at how popular movies like Saw 7 (in 3D) and Fast and Furious 6 have been.

2. Game Controls

When Marty goes to Café '80s he meets two kids and decides to show off by playing the Nintendo game Wild Gunman. But, young Frodo and his friend are unimpressed. “You mean you have to use your hands?” they exclaim, “That’s like a baby’s toy!” Whatever technology they hinted at might have been beyond what most people could have dreamed up back then, but today its commonplace. Devices like the Microsoft Kinect not only allow you to use your whole body as a controller, now even your voice is used to control your Xbox.

1. Flying Cars

Okay, this one is a bit of a stretch. It’s true that flying cars aren’t as common as portrayed in the movie, but the concept of a flying car has been in the works for quite a few years now. The Moller Skycar is one of many prototypes that is aimed at being a means of transport for anyone who can drive.

A surprising number of 1980s predictions actually did come true, and some of them have even been better than what Hollywood was able to dream up. All we need now is the hoverboard.