Innholdsfortegnelse for July 2021 i Woman & Home

Are you one of those people who breezes through life without a care in the world? No? Neither am I. Worrying seems to go with the territory for many of us and, for the most part, if we’re lucky, it’s controllable – let’s face it, it’s the worrying about things that often gets them done. But sometimes it gets a bit out of hand and becomes unproductive or worse. If you suffer in any way, big or small, our anxiety quiz on page 92 will tell you what kind of issues you might have and gives great tips on how best to deal with yours. (I was mostly Bs, by the way.) I recommend reading it as the first step towards being kind to yourself – because you deserve it.…

1. Glistening honey Notes of decadent black honey and heady amber are finished with a layer of bergamot and orange flower. Tom Ford Soleil Brûlant, 50ml, £228, tomford.co.uk 2. Fragrant blossoms Delicate jasmine and honeysuckle are topped with bergamot. Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle in Bloom, 50ml, £99, harrods.com 3. Summer vacation Deliciously light and zingy, yuzu fruit layered with aromatic thyme and rosemary. Louis Vuitton On The Beach, 100ml, £200, louisvuitton.com 4. Energising orangery A sophisticated scent – fruity with a touch of androgyny. Jo Malone London Orange Peel Cologne, 30ml, £55, jomalone.co.uk 5. Liquid nectar Elegant, feminine and aromatic. Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Nettare Di Sole, 125ml, £91, guerlain.com 6. Sparkling citrus Bergamot and grapefruit make way for geranium petals sitting on a cedarwood base. Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo, 150ml,…

There are few upsides to lockdown, but it’s worth pausing to celebrate those that do exist. For me, it meant I could finally get round to those niggling jobs that my hurly-burly life had always prevented me from tackling – such as sorting out my photograph albums. I realised that during lockdown, I could upload my digital pictures and  order prints online. I think we all  now appreciate the joy of a much-anticipated package coming through the post, don’t we? And, because I had so much more time, I could really savour leafing through my older snaps, the ones that had languished in boxes for decades and had never made it to the elevated status of being lovingly put in an album. ‘Placing photos in albums felt like a homage…

What’s your earliest memory of acting? When I was small I was really shy, but at nursery I would go straight to the dressing-up box. I was an only child so I was always making up stories and pretending to be different characters. When I was three, I went to the Hazel Johnson School of Dance [in Treboeth, Swansea], which Catherine Zeta-Jones also attended. Then, when I was nine, my parents sent me to elocution and drama classes. Did you have a plan B? Never, but there’s a strong medical side to the family – my nan was a matron and my aunties worked as hospital receptionists – and at a time I wanted to be a doctor. I was very academic but I didn’t want to go to university.…

The greatest lesson I’ve learned in life is to make no judgements about people until you’ve spent time with them. I think we’re so preprogrammed to have a certain opinion about somebody. A person is a person and they’re really interesting – they will have had challenges in their lives, and they will have had joys in their lives. Being a mum to a transgender child has taught me that each soul is unique. A child that was born into one gender, but has absolutely ever since they were a toddler been very clearly leaning in a different gender direction and has now fully realised that – that child resonates exactly the same to me both ways. The soul of a person is unique to them and is unchangeable. The…

Thrifty trick If you’ve built up a credit card debt, save hundreds by moving it over to a balance-transfer card with an interest-free offer. By avoiding interest, your repayments will reduce the debt more quickly. Around 54% of credit card balances rack up interest, according to UK Finance (ukfinance.org.uk). Cardholders with the average balance of £2,177 could save a whopping £676 in interest by shifting to a card that charges 0% for 21 months, says Totally Money (totallymoney.com). Seize the chance to pay off the balance during the interest-free offer, before the rate rises afterwards, or be prepared to switch again once the offer finishes. Set a reminder so you know when the interest-free period ends. And resist buying anything with a balance-transfer card, as they often charge chunky interest…

BREEZY BLOUSES ✢ Loose-fit tops in lightweight fabrics will keep you cool and comfortable, while looking chic. ✢ Longer sleeves are great if you’re conscious of upper arms, and the relaxed necklines work well for a fuller bust too. BAGS OF STYLE ✢ Give your arm candy a new lease of life with an oversized shopper. ✢ Functional and fashionable, look for raffia or woven designs that will elevate any outfit while storing all your essentials. STYLE TIP Team a patterned tote with a minimal outfit. HAT TRICK ✢ Whether you’re heading to the coast or a country pub garden, a timeless sun hat will be your fashion friend for years to come. ✢ Try a floppy style for a laid-back feel or a more structured design when you’re dressing…

Cast aside your black kohl stick and nude lipstick, along with those hefty knits. Warmer weather and brighter days are the perfect invitation to play with brilliant hues that call to us like a magpie to a treasure chest. Holidays may still be off the menu, but a warm, well-rested appearance enhanced by a vibrant lipstick or sun-flushed blusher will certainly capture that wanderlust spirit. BAREFACED CHIC Less foundation means less to slip off as the temperatures creep up. Ciaté London Dewy Skin, £26, ciatelondon.com , provides the perfect foil to a bold make-up look. This glow-giving skin tint is super thin and feels virtually weightless. Similarly, NYX Bare With Me Tinted Skin Serum, £13, Boots , prioritises radiance, and will enhance, not mask, your natural-born skin. If you’re worried…

I told some of my clients I was tackling this topic… ‘Save us and our stuttering sex drive,’ they begged. Busy family lives, work issues and fluctuations in how we feel about our partners can all contribute to a decline in the desire to be intimate. Then there’s the big M. I am a great believer in not blaming hormonal imbalances for every negative in our lives, but none of us are strangers to the midlife cocktail of night sweats, hot flushes, parched skin, joint pain and stiffness, palpitations and anxiety. It’s not surprising then that having sex doesn’t always make it to the top of the midlife woman’s to-do list. Patches and potions prescribed to ease the menopause can also boost desire. But let’s see what we can do…

It’s not just a bra that makes a difference. Mr Banwell says: 1 WEAR SUNSCREEN ‘Sun damage can destroy the collagen and elastin in your skin. Collagen is a protein that retains firmness, so if this is reduced, your breasts can become saggier as the skin  loses elasticity.’ 2 STOP DIETING ‘Crash diets can cause a loss of muscle, as well as tissues around them, which happens so quickly that your skin doesn’t have enough time to adjust.’ 3 SLEEP ON YOUR BACK ‘Having breasts pressed against a mattress for hours can increase wrinkles. Sleeping on your side can cause breast ligaments to stretch.’ 4 QUIT SMOKING ‘There are 4,000 chemicals in tobacco smoke, many of which trigger the destruction of collagen and elastin.’…

We all need some cholesterol in our blood, as it plays an important role in the brain, nerves and skin. But having too much of certain types can lead to fatty deposits building up in the walls of arteries, narrowing them, and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol and other fats are carried around the blood attached to proteins, forming lipoproteins. There are two main types of these: LDL cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, contains lots of cholesterol, and its job is to deliver cholesterol to the cells. Often called ‘bad’ cholesterol, if there is too much LDL in the blood, it can build up in the artery walls. HDL cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, contains lots of protein, and very little cholesterol, and its job is to carry cholesterol away…

1 ADD SHADE WITH A PERGOLA One of the top garden trends, pergolas are a stylish way of adding structure and shade to a patio area. Pergolas can be attached to a house to stretch the space or used as a stand-alone feature. Train climbing greenery such as clematis and honeysuckle over a pergola and festoon with pretty lights for relaxed evening entertaining. Wood Stain and Protect in Ebony (on pergola), £9.99 for 1ltr, protekwoodstain.co.uk 2 BUILD RAISED FLOWER BEDS For gardens that are lacking in structure, raised beds are a brilliant way of adding height and interest. They can be built almost anywhere, so are a good solution if soil and drainage is poor – plants are raised up from ground level so get more light and are easier…

✢ Opt for pale chalky tones on walls to highlight original beams in a wood-framed property. ✢ Choose plush upholstered furniture, arranged sociably to take in stunning views outside. ✢ Warm up neutrals with soft tones – from teal and grey to rose and lilac. ✢ Use woven rugs and runners to cosy up chilly stone slabs. COMPILED BY: LISA FAZZANI…

Cottage cheese, cucumber & radish open sandwiches In Denmark, this recipe is often made with ‘rygeost’ – a young smoked cheese. It’s hard to get outside of Denmark, so use cottage cheese. Makes 2 open sandwiches 2 slices of dark rye bread, buttered 1 x 10cm piece of cucumber, halved, deseeded and shaved very thinly 6 large radishes (or more if smaller) 200g tub cottage cheese 2tbsp freshly snipped chives, plus extra to garnish freshly squeezed lemon juice, to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper handful of watercress or Indian cress, to garnish 1 Arrange the ribbons of cucumber on the rye bread, folded back on themselves once. This layer of cucumber will protect the bread from getting soggy too quickly from the cottage cheese. 2 Chop three-quarters of…

No matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, summer is the perfect time to lose yourself in a book. So a very warm welcome to our 14-page summer reading special. Book Club editor Zoe West brings you reviews of all the latest titles, plus revealing interviews with the unflinching Lionel Shriver and The Familiars author Stacey Halls, whose new book explores the darker side of Edwardian family life. In our exclusive short stories, there’s poignant and thought-provoking fiction from top authors Fanny Blake and Clare Mackintosh. We also delve into the top 20 best novels of all time, as voted for by you. And, if going away remains a dream, relish the wonderful literary destinations picked by some of our favourite writers in Books to Escape With .…

Lionel Shriver American journalist and author Lionel Shriver is an international bestseller, whose novel We Need to Talk About Kevin saw her win the Orange Prize for Fiction. Her new novel, Should We Stay Or Should We Go, explores a couple’s decision to end their lives when they turn 80. I always find writing a new novel daunting. You’d think one would get better at it! One day, I just start. What drives me is boredom. Inspiration hit when speaking to a friend of mine. She was about 60 and declared she didn’t want to live beyond the age of 80. While I’m still forming the book in my head, I’ll throw out the central premise and see how people react. But once I start writing, no one will hear…

GOLDEN PLACE MY COUSIN RACHEL by Daphne du Maurier I love the ambiguity in this book. Is the protagonist a victim of circumstance or a manipulative woman? It has all the ingredients I’m drawn to – a stately home, with the house almost a character itself. And there’s such a strong sense of place. I think once you have that, it’s golden. The film that came out with Rachel Weisz as Rachel is great too! COMING OF AGE A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN by Betty Smith This is a coming-of-age semi-autobiographical novel based on Betty’s experiences of growing up in a working-class Irish community in Brooklyn. It’s set at the turn of the 20th century and there’s so much detail about where people live – and it’s full of life…

Bryony needed the ‘isolated spot’ described in the brochure like nothing else before in her life, but she hadn’t imagined somewhere this isolated. Her satnav had taken her down narrow Devon lanes, overshadowed by trees, winding between drystone walls, past stone farmhouses, before announcing she had arrived at her destination. A field. Miles from anywhere. But in the field was a smoky-pink painted shepherd’s hut, with a paved path between the small gritted car park and the steps to its stable door. Beyond was woodland, lit by slanting sunlight. She parked, hauled her case to the hut, extracted the key from the key safe and, with an unsteady hand, inserted it. Why had she thought getting away on her own to consider her future was a good idea? Perhaps John…

Growing Bolder Linda Robson hosts a new podcast that celebrates life over 50. She’ll chat to guests who have discovered a new lease of life, from TGBBO’s Jane Beedle to stand-up Lynn Ruth Miller, who’s still touring at 87. Apple Podcasts, Spotify 125 Treasures To coincide with the publication of a new book, this podcast celebrates five objects in the National Trust collections. Introduced by Alison Steadman, you’ll discover the stories behind artefacts as diverse as an obelisk and an elephant automaton. Available on major podcast platforms A Living Loss We’ve been living through massive changes recently and in this series, psychotherapist Julia Samuel MBE talks to guests such as author Elizabeth Day and newscaster Tom Bradby about loss and change, and how they have coped. Analytical and thoughtful. Acast,…

LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST The course of true love may not run smoothly – it feels like your partner’s blocking you somehow, but the 13th has potential to be your most romantic day. Call 0905 789 4154* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER There are moments when you’re irritable, but unclear as to why. Around the 25th, an idea paves the way for fiery Mars to enter Virgo when motivation takes an upswing. Call 0905 789 4155* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER July’s fun – building to a peak on the 22nd. Let your hair down. The 17th is fabulous for getting stuff done. Call 0905 789 4156* and choose weekly, monthly and…

International bestselling author LIONEL SHRIVER tackles tough subjects unflinchingly. Her latest book Should We Stay or Should We Go is no exception, so  you’ll be fascinated to discover how she writes on page 167. What was the last thing that made you cry with laughter? A meme that featured several pictures of deep, empty post holes in the dirt, with the caption ‘These posts have been removed… in case they cause a fence’. It’s just a pun, but a perfect double pun that’s socially apt. Writer and part-time smallholder REBECCA SCHILLER runs the Mothers Who Write community and is co-founder of the human rights charity Birthrights. Her memoir, Earthed, is out now, and she has written about her not-so-simple life on page 42. What was the last thing that made…

Add your pictures by hashtagging #womanandhomestreetstyle or email wandhstreetstyle@futurenet.com to join in.…

A sense of renewal is in the air, and that means there’s no better time to get our body and mind in shape. But you don’t need to become a qualified yogi or down green juices to transform your health and wellbeing. Whether you want to sleep better, eat healthier or worry less, there’s a book out there that could help you. ‘Self-help books are more popular than ever. This past year has forced us all to take a close look at who we are, and has also generated an interest in our psychological, emotional, physical and mental health,’ says author and relationship and lifestyle strategist Rainie Howard. ‘People want to take ownership of their wellbeing, and self-help books can make readers feel empowered and more in control of their…

If we Brits were defined by a season, it would have to be summer. What is more quintessentially British than a day at the seaside, with squawking seagulls and sunburnt shoulders? Mediterranean resorts are all very well, with their reliable heat and wince-free waters, but in our hearts, we know there’s nothing more heavenly than the green, green grass of home. It may be too wet to lie on or scorched to scrub by mid-July, but the unpredictable weather is all part of the fun. Here are 10 rules for a Great British Summer. 1 ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing’ How often did your mum tell you this? Our national need to cater for all meteorological eventualities explains why every summer excursion involves lugging…

Bob was my soulmate – I knew we were destined to be together when we met in 1995. I was 23 and had moved to Penrith straight after university for a job in marketing. Bob was one of my customers and, even though he was 12 years older than me, we hit it off immediately because he had a magnetic, fun personality. We got married on 31 August 1997. In 2006, after my parents died within six months of one another, we moved back to my childhood home in Preston. By then, we had two children – eight-year-old Jess and six-year-old Mikey. Bob  worked tirelessly as we got stuck into renovating the house to make it our own.  We had another new beginning as I  found out I was pregnant…

BOOST YOUR MOOD IN BRIGHTS ✢ Embrace colour this summer in bold hues that are guaranteed to make you smile. ✢ Pack a style punch in a printed midi dress. The fit-and-flare shape accentuates the waist and skims over thighs for a flattering fit that will take you from day to night effortlessly. ✢ Ditch dull swimwear for warm tones that will brighten the complexion, while the wrap detail and ruched front smooths and shapes. ✢ The finishing touch? A stylish straw sun hat.…

If ever there was a time to shop smart, it’s now. Summer is here, our social lives have finally left the sofa and work no longer consists of endless Zoom calls. Trawling online for nice tops and statement earrings got us this far. Now it’s time to build a wardrobe that also makes sense from the waist down. And while the word trend may have been relegated to the deepest recesses of our minds, what we all need is a bit of newness. Things that scream summer 2021 and laugh in the face of 2020. Sweatpants and house slippers be gone. Our eyes are fixed firmly on the finer things in life, like dresses and actual shoes, with heels. I’m confident a strategic spot of shopping and a handful of…

LAUREN HUTTON Despite being dismissed by many model agents at the start of her career due to her signature gap-toothed smile, Lauren Hutton’s career as a model has spanned nearly six decades, with numerous Vogue covers, a million-dollar modelling contract with Revlon, and starring roles in Hollywood movies, to name a few of her many successes. At 77, she has never looked more beautiful, and here she shares the secrets of her enduring good looks. Good hair day buy When I’m not working, I brush out my hair, twist it, plop it on the top of my head and pin into place. For serious conditioning two to three times a week, I use Christophe Robin Regenerating Mask with Rare Prickly Pear Seed oil, £54, feelunique.com Youth-boosting tricks For a fast…

CARBOHYDRATES Starchy foods are an important part of the diet. ‘They should make up about a third of all the food that we eat,’ says Clodagh Hackett, lead dietitian at The Princess Grace Hospital. ‘You don’t have to avoid or restrict them because they are “fattening”. Instead, be aware of the total amount of starch that you eat and ensure you are choosing higher-fibre wholegrain varieties. This includes wholewheat pasta, brown rice, potatoes (with their skins on), wholegrain breads and porridge.’ Try to avoid processed foods that contain simple carbs – these are absorbed quickly by the gut and can cause a spike in blood-sugar levels, leading you to feel hungry later on. Simple carbs include sweets, soft drinks, white bread and pasta. PROTEIN ‘A diet that’s high in protein…

Secretly wearing a tatty old bra? You’re not the only one – 70%* of women say they’d rather wear something comfortable than buy a new bra. But it may be doing you more harm than good. ‘We’re not kind to our breasts,’ says Hazel Ma, bra fitter for Anita UK. ‘When you consider how much we spend on things like nails and hair, most women are alarmingly reluctant to do something simple for breasts, such as buying a good bra.’ Whatever size or shape you are, here’s how to give your breasts a bit of TLC. WHAT LOCKDOWN HAS DONE TO YOUR CLEAVAGE Did you spend the pandemic ‘sans bra’? As a nation, around a third** of us happily did. ‘Many women decided to stop wearing a bra during lockdown;…

Q I had COVID-19 just after Christmas and was really ill for a couple of weeks. I’ve recovered well though, but I’ve noticed my hair is much thinner, and there’s loads of it on my hands when it’s washed. Is this due to coronavirus, or could it be something else? A Lots of people have reported thinning hair after having COVID-19, but the exact reason for this isn’t known. Currently it’s not thought that the virus itself damages hair follicles, but the physical and emotional stress from the illness can disrupt hair growth, known as telogen effluvium. Hair goes through a cycle of active growth, then resting, then falling out, and stressful events can shift hair into the resting phase, and this leads to hair loss. The condition can only…

After more than 24 years, this is my final column for woman&home. This past year has been extraordinary for all of us and, like many frontline NHS workers, I’ve been incredibly busy. I’m the senior partner in a GP practice, and for the past six months, not only have we been caring for our patients as usual, but also giving COVID-19 vaccines, and that has meant very long hours in the surgery. I’ve realised, for my own physical and mental health, I need to prioritise time for hobbies, relaxation and sleep! I now know how hard it can be to let go, especially when I’ve loved working for such a fabulous magazine, but it’s time for me to say goodbye.…

1 Swap heavy curtains for sheers Replace weighty winter drapes with lightweight panels in linen or voile over the warmer summer months. Simple tie-top curtains are easy to put up, on a simple rod or pole – try doubling up with two panels each side in soft, coordinating colours for a chic look. Rosa and Ice Blue stonewashed linen curtain panels with ties, £67.99 each, linenme.com 2 Fill a wall with greenery Turn an empty space into a focal point by creating an indoor garden area. Plants arranged in a group look much more eye-catching than a few dotted here and there, so fix up rows of shelves and fill with potted plants in a mix of heights and varieties. Oak and cast iron shelves, £25 and £50, gardentrading.co.uk 3…

Southside Gin’s answer to a mojito. If you want a longer serve, top it up with soda water and serve in a highball glass with a small mint sprig. MAKES 1 50ml Hernö Gin 25ml lime juice 15ml sugar syrup mint leaves, with extra for garnish you will need: coupe glass and a cocktail shaker 1 Add the gin, lime juice, sugar syrup and mint leaves to the cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. 2 Double strain into the coupe glass and garnish with the remaining mint leaves. The Bramble Lightly fruity without being sickly, this pretty gin refresher works with a lemon wedge or berry garnish. MAKES 1 10ml White Heron British Cassis 50ml Conker Gin 25ml lemon juice 15ml sugar syrup for the garnish: lemon wedges blackberries…

South Africa has always had a special place in my heart. Not only do I have friends and family there, the stunning landscapes are phenomenal and so distinct. There’s the inland safari areas; the Western Cape, where the all great South African wines come from: and the beautiful craggy cliffs of the Cape of Good Hope. Then there’s the forests and lagoons along the Garden Route, and the incredible mountains, from Table Mountain in Cape Town to the Drakensberg range. Every time I go back there, I see a different kind of South Africa. And it’s the same with safaris. I’ve been doing them for 25 years now, and each time I learn something new. I really do believe that to see animals in the wild is the most breathtaking…

GRAN DESIGNS The Long Way Home by Fanny Blake (£20, HB, Simon & Schuster) When Isla, a 65-year-old grandmother, is left nothing in her mother’s will, her curiosity leads her on a journey of self-discovery. Embarking on a road trip with her reluctant teenage granddaughter, along the way, family truths and secrets come to light, and the repercussions of past mistakes are clear to see. Fanny Blake is a master at leading us gently through the complexities of life. MURDER MYSTERY The Maidens by Alex Michaelides (£14.99, HB, Orion) From the record-breaking author of The Silent Patient, set against the iconic backdrop of Cambridge University. Therapist Mariana is called to the university by her niece, Zoe, because her closest friend has been murdered. There she encounters Edward Fosca, the charismatic…

FINDING RUBY is a debut novel by Jemima Price. She transports you so vividly, you feel the terror of the tsunami. I laughed and cried. Anne Price, Creuse, France A DUTIFUL BOY is an autobiography by successful barrister Mohsin Zaidi, also a gay Muslim. This is the story of his struggle with his identity. Wendy Williams, Stratford-upon-Avon I love books by Katie Fforde. I read her short story in w&h, now I’m reading her novel A SPRINGTIME AFFAIR – it’s just right for now. Veronica van Boxtel-Peart, Veghel, the Netherlands I’ve just finished Caitlin Moran’s MORE THAN A WOMAN . It was so honest and full of advice. I’m encouraging everyone I know to read it – including my partner! Sarah Caton, Hereford…

Reading is one of life’s greatest pleasures and, during lockdown, many of us have revisited or discovered some of the greatest fiction ever written. These are the books you’ve told us you love the most. 20 LORD OF THE FLIES by William Golding When a plane crashes on a desert island, the only survivors are a group of schoolboys. Their attempts to govern themselves fall apart and terror sets in. A thought-provoking classic examining the cruel end of innocence. A line we love: ‘The thing is – fear can’t hurt you any more than a dream.’ 19 GREAT EXPECTATIONS by Charles Dickens We follow Pip as he meets eccentric Miss Havisham, falls for haughty Estella and becomes a gentleman. A line we love: ‘I looked at…

Genius: Aretha Aretha Franklin fans are in for a treat with this biopic starring Emmy award-winner Cynthia Erivo, which explores the Queen of Soul’s life and recording career. Disney+ Lisey’s Story This eight-part adaptation of Stephen King’s 2006 bestseller follows Lisey Landon (Julianne Moore) two years after the death of her husband, novelist Scott Landon (Clive Owen). AppleTV+ Loki Tom Hiddleston reprises his movie role as Loki, the imperious god of mischief, as he heads up this new Marvel series. Owen Wilson and Richard E Grant also star. Disney+…

✢ Living Well Through the Menopause by Myra Hunter and Melanie Smith (£14.99, Robinson) The menopause brings about physical, mental and emotional changes, which can make you feel like you’re just keeping your head above water. Based on a wealth of research, this book uses cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help women cope. Best for Improving physical and mental health during the menopause. ✢ The Calm Kitchen by Lorna Salmon (£7.99, Pavilion Books) Essentially, the foodie approach to self-care. Discover how mindful cooking, baking, foraging and feasting can lead to better peace of mind, health and wellbeing. Following the four seasons, this is a beginner’s guide to reconnecting with nature through food, cookery and ingredient-sourcing. It includes 30 foolproof vegetarian recipes, as well insightful and informative guides on the ingredients.…

They say that if you had a happy childhood, you don’t remember it, and I have to admit, I don’t remember that little red car I’m pushing, with my sister Anita at the wheel. I do, however, remember days like that, playing happily in the sunshine. It’s possibly summer 1971 and I’d be about three and Anita two. ‘Life is complicated and it’s OK to be silly along the way’ Dad was one of nine and Mum one of seven, and they had that classic Irish journey – they left school at 14 and emigrated to north London at 16. He worked on building sites and she was a barmaid, and when they got married they moved out to Ponders End, on the edge of Enfield. Mum was only 22…

We’ve been bowled over by the nominations for our Amazing Women Awards, and this month, we celebrate the three finalists in two categories. Don’t Tell Me I Can’t… celebrates women who, through determination and grit, have notched up incredible achievements and made a difference to others, in spite of their personal struggles. Celebrities Doing Good shines a light on women who are using their fame to raise valuable awareness for great causes. Look out for next month’s issue of woman&home, where we’ll share the shortlists of the community heroines voted for by you from five regions: Scotland & Northern Ireland; North East, North West & Yorkshire; Wales & West Midlands; East Midlands & East Anglia; and South West & South East. Who will you vote for? DON’T TELL ME I…

LUXE LINEN ✢ When it comes to trousers this summer, the wider the better, and this lightweight pair will elongate legs. ✢ Stock up on floaty printed blouses that you can pair with jeans, tuck into midi skirts or team with relaxed-fit trousers. ✢ A timeless trilby hat never goes out of style. MIRROR FINISH ✢ There’s no need to shy away from embellishment, even if your outfit is print-heavy. Metallic detailing will add a luxe feel. ✢ Keep to collarless jackets for a streamlined look, flattering for those with a fuller bust. ✢ A block heel adds height while remaining comfortable. FROCK STAR ✢ If you add anything to your wardrobe this season, make it a do-it-all dress – we guarantee it will become your summer saviour. ✢ The…

If you’ve been hankering after a new look, without too much expense, then colouring your own hair could be just the thing. It’s cost-effective, there’s no appointment required and the whole process can be wrapped up in under an hour – all from the comfort of your own bathroom. The downside is that you’re missing out on the expert eyes and experience of a hairdresser, who will not only be able to guarantee spot-on application (they have the advantage of being able to see the back of your head), but advise on suitable shades and root growth too. But remember, you don’t need to be in an exclusive relationship with either at-home dye or a salon colourist. A happy medium could be a mix of both, and any good professional…

Jane Clarke, nutritionist and founder of Nourish Drinks, says there is so much more to cook over the coals than bangers and burgers. The chargrilled smoky flavours can enhance fish, veggies and even fruit – and you’ll benefit from the extra nutrients and lower calories. Plus you’ll cut back on processed meat, which is associated with inflammation and increased risk of disease. Get ready for a healthy, al fresco feast with three simple tips: 1 Oily fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can protect the heart and reduce inflammation in the body. Wrap salmon with herbs and lemon in foil, and cook until tender. 2 Chop courgettes, peppers, red onion and cherry tomatoes, and thread onto skewers. The antioxidants in vegetables help to break down free radicals, which…

MOSTLY As You have a handle on stress You’re resilient and optimistic, which means you effectively shake off anxious thoughts. Be careful you’re not suppressing genuine worries. Dr  Sophie Mort, psychologist and author of A Manual for Being Human (£14.99, Simon & Schuster), believes we might not recognise and understand our difficult emotions if we’ve been raised to fear or be ashamed of them. ‘We are usually taught to put on a brave face when we are distressed and told to “snap out of it”,’ she explains. YOUR FIX Reach out and open up to family or friends. They will support you when you need it. WHY NOT TRY Journaling. One study found people who work through their worries on paper have more positive feelings of wellbeing than those who…

‘I’ve always been a keen walker, with a real sense of adventure. After meeting and marrying my husband, we settled in Aberdeen and together had a lifelong ambition to see the world. After we retired, I began to make travel  plans. But my dreams were soon dashed when I developed a very painful foot condition that seemed to come out of nowhere. I first noticed a dry, red patch on the sole of my foot that just wouldn’t go away, and gradually it got worse and worse. I saw my GP, who diagnosed psoriasis. He gave me antibiotics and suggested that I see a dermatologist. Various prescriptions followed, and I was constantly applying different ointments and steroid creams, but nothing worked. The infection continued to spread until it was all…

✢ Stand in front of a mirror with your arms down and then up. Look for redness, swelling, dimpling of the skin and changes in the nipple. ✢ Lie on your back. Starting with the right breast, put your right arm behind your head. Move your left fingers, keeping them flat and together, around your right breast in  a small circle from the outside to the centre. ✢ Change the amount of pressure to assess all levels of the breast tissue. ✢ Do not overlook the armpits, behind nipples and the collarbone. Check both sides.…

I have lost count of the number of times patients have asked me about the best way to ‘detox’ – to clear their body of toxins. And I’ve read numerous adverts that claim detoxing will help with various health problems, including obesity, digestive issues, bloating and tiredness. And though the idea of only drinking prune juice and mineral water for a couple of days to purge everything out might seem like a good idea, it’s very unlikely to have any long-term health benefits. There is very little good research on detoxing, and the body is capable of cleansing itself through the actions of the liver, kidneys, faeces and also sweat. So unless you have a problem with these, then there should be no build-up of toxins. There is certainly no…

Get baking this summer with a joyful treat to share with family and friends that also celebrates seasonal produce. With the garden in full bloom, now is the time to pick elderflowers, pansies, nasturtiums, cornflowers, primroses, herbs, cherries and berries. Lucky enough to have a mint bush? As well as aiding digestion in fresh tea, the essential oils in mint can help cure nausea and improve concentration. If life gets a bit too much, lavender is great for stress – and tastes fantastic with chicken. Meanwhile, dandelion petals can help cure a hangover by aiding detoxification of the liver. Noted!…

When Lauren and Charlie Richards first saw the sale details of their 17th-century farmhouse, the epic scale of the renovation required dampened their enthusiasm. The couple were looking for a property to grow into after the birth of their second daughter, Evie, who is now 13. But although the location of the house close to the market town of Ludlow was ideal, the project was too big a challenge for them to take on. The young family moved to the area in 2005 and had been living in a barn conversion in Shropshire with their first daughter, Alice, now 15, when they embarked on the long and daunting task of finding a new, larger home. ‘When the farmhouse came on the market we were trying to sell our barn conversion,…

Jambalaya Comfort food with summer colours, all bursting with rich flavour. Serves 4-6 • Ready in 1 hr 1tsp vegetable oil 200g chorizo, sliced 1 onion, chopped 2 celery sticks, chopped 1 green pepper, deseeded and chopped 4 garlic cloves, crushed 1tbsp Cajun seasoning 300g long-grain rice 1tbsp tomato puree 1 tin of tomatoes 2 sprigs of fresh thyme 600ml fish stock 16 large skin-on prawns to serve: small handful of chopped parsley 150ml soured cream lime wedges 1 Heat the oil in a large, non-stick lidded saucepan. Add the chorizo and fry for 2-3 mins, until the oil has been released from the chorizo. Remove from the pan, leaving the oil behind, and set aside. 2 Add the onion, celery and green pepper to the pan and fry on low…

✢ Take your time. I’d recommend doing a safari over several days – you’re more likely to see a greater variety of animals. ✢ Get a guide. They make a big difference – they have invaluable knowledge of the animals, their habits and their movements. ✢ Pack the right stuff. Bring your own binoculars and layer up. It’s cold in the mornings when you do the dawn game drive – the best time for seeing predators – but it warms up. When the sun rises, you’ll want to unpeel those layers.…

EYE-OPENER The Husbands by Chandler Baker (£14.99, HB, Little, Brown) Every once in a while there’s a book that stays with you – whether the subject resonates, makes you think or quite simply shocks. The Husbands does all that, and more. Successful attorney Nora is house-hunting, which takes her to a small neighbourhood where women aren’t the only ones making sacrifices in life. Here, it’s men who remember birthdays and do the ironing – and Nora feels her eyes have been opened. But when she’s pulled in to help solve a wrongful death case, she realises just what it might cost to ‘have it all’.…

Hailed as one of the most exciting new historical novelists to emerge in recent years, Stacey Halls’ lyrical writing style is simply mesmerising – with her debut novel The Familiars the biggest-selling hardback debut novel of 2019. Her new novel, Mrs England, follows Ruby, a Norland Nanny who goes to work in the home of a wealthy Edwardian couple where nothing is as it seems. Stacey lives in Oxfordshire with her husband and their dog. ‘I can’t start writing until I have an idea of where it’s set’ The success that came with my debut, The Familiars, was surreal. The idea came to me instantly, as I had a connection with the area. I knew the Pendle witch trials had been written about, but that didn’t put me off. I…