Innholdsfortegnelse for December 23, 2013 i Woman's Own

If you’re anything like me, you’ll love a bargain and it appears famous women like one, too. Kate Middleton, 31, and celebrity chef Mary Berry, 78, both revealed their frugal sides recently when they wore the same £19.99 diamanté necklace from high street store Zara. It also shows that classic designs suit women of all ages – there may be a whopping 47 years between Kate and Mary, but they both wear their bling with style! Join us online Head to our fabulous website, womansown.co.uk, to get all the latest celeb gossip, great competitions, plus beauty, fashion and cookery – as well as last-minute Christmas gift ideas!…

TRIAL SPLIT They may only have been married for seven months, but melanie sykes, 43, and her toy-boy husband Jack Cockings, 28, have decided to go on a trial split after she was arrested for common assault on the roofer. a friend revealed, ‘The age difference just became too much. what happened was an indication that things weren’t right.’ MUMMY DUTY Adele, 25, enjoyed a rare night off to attend a celeb-filled event recently, but that didn’t stop her from rushing back to son Angelo, 14 months, halfway through the night. The singer was attending an exclusive Lady Gaga gig with fiancé Simon Konecki (right) when she was forced to cut her night short after the US star turned up late. A friend said, ‘Adele and Simon wanted nothing more…

BIGGEST TEAR-JERKER Deborah Meaden was devastated to leave when she was voted off, but her dance partner, Robin Windsor, fell apart. Sob! BIGGEST BUST-UP Pros Ola Jordan and Karen Hauer came to blows when Karen told Ola, ‘You are a rubbish dancer, Ola. That’s why you’re always at the back.’ They later made up, but ouch! RAUNCHIEST LEN LINE ‘It was all bounce, bum and bongos!’ – Len didn’t hold back when it came to critiquing Susanna Reid’s saucy samba. CLASSIC CLAUDIA After his dance as Dr Evil, Mark Benton and his partner, Iveta, ran up the stairs and were greeted by Claudia Winkleman mimicking his bald head! BRUCE’S FINEST COCK-UP Looking to the panel to begin their judging, Bruce signalled to Darcey, calling her ‘Dave’. Time to invest in…

7am Drink water Topping-up your fluids throughout the day can actually make you feel less – not more – bloated, because it helps flush out the excess sodium (from salty foods) that is linked with water retention. A good habit to get into is having a glass of still water after every visit to the bathroom. 7.15am STAND TALL Start the day with this stretch. It will make you stand straighter – an instant way to pull in and trim your tummy. Stand facing a wall, place your right palm fat on the wall in front of you at shoulder height. Turn your whole body, including your feet, to the left until you can go no further while keeping your palm totally fat. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat the…

Dry eyes A common winter complaint, dryness of the eyes is made even worse by central heating. Blink more frequently to moisten your eyes and take regular breaks from your computer screen. Eat oily fish like sardines and mackerel because they contain omega-3 fatty acids which help produce tears. Use hydrating eye drops – Murine Bright & Moist Eyes (£4.07 for 15ml, Superdrug) will whiten and brighten. The big sleep Do you find it difficult to nod off? Research shows that people who run or take a brisk walk first thing in the morning spend 75% longer in a deep sleep than those who go later. Calming lavender oil is a great help, too. Sprinkle a few drops on your pillow, lie down and count your breaths: breathe in for…

When I first saw Steve Coltman, he was on a roof top, shirt off with a big cheeky smile. ‘What’s your name?’ he shouted and I felt the colour rise up my neck. I was 16 and not used to being chatted up by workmen. Yet from the beginning I was captivated by Steve. He was 16 too and we started going out. When he was old enough he got a Ford Escort and he’d take me for drives round our home town of Darlington. ‘One day we’ll have a little house and a family,’ he’d say and my heart thumped a little quicker. It sounded so perfect. After we’d been together 18 months, it seemed my dreams were coming true as Steve proposed. I said yes without hesitating, we…

Opening the beautifully wrapped present that my daughter, Nicki, had left under our tree, my eyes filled with tears. ‘It explains everything I have been feeling,’ she said simply. It was Christmas Day last year and, seeing the bundle of pages tied together into a precious book, I felt overwhelmed by her bravery. The scars criss-crossing up her arms were still visible – it was hardly any time at all since we had been in such a dark place. Nicki’s depression had begun after a chance at pop stardom had failed back in June 2009, when she was 23. She had always been an incredible singer and had been spotted at a talent show by a music producer working with Britney Spears. He’d signed her and within weeks she’d recorded…

I was just settling down to a nice Friday night in. I’d finished all my housework and had logged on to the computer for a couple of games of bingo while I relaxed. I deposited some money and bought £3 worth of tickets for the Sapphire Bingo room, then called my best friend for a chat while I watched the games play out. As we were catching up about what we’d been up to that week, I spotted the Tycoons Treasure Progressive slot mini game in the corner of the screen. ‘I’ll just have one spin,’ I thought to myself, as I was telling my friend about the aqua aerobics class I’d been to that afternoon. I stopped talking mid-sentence. On screen, I saw I’d got three Tycoon head symbols…

4 step recipes If you want to wow your family and friends with a menu of delicious dishes over the festive period, then our Christmas Made Easy app is just what you’re looking for! Each recipe comprises of just four simple steps to ensure you spend your holiday season enjoying yourself instead of slaving over a hot stove. For just £1.99 you can have 64 traditional and modern recipes at your fingertips, from mouthwatering turkeys to melt-in-the-mouth puds and tasty tipples. Clever ideas Following our festive recipes really couldn’t be easier. As well as the four simple steps, we’ve tried to keep the ingredients to a minimum and you can even email yourself a handy shopping list to refer to at the supermarket. There is also a useful pop-up conversion…

Tooth fairy The festive period is set to be a busy time for mum-of-two Tess Daly, 44, who has revealed her plans for Christmas – which includes a dreaded trip to the dentist. ‘It’s such a busy time. I have two days off before the kids break up from school and I have to order our Christmas lunch, buy all the presents and have a tooth taken out,’ she said. ‘Then there are Nativities and carol services – I don’t want to miss those!’ She’s making a list… DOWNTON DANNY Hard man Danny Dyer, 36, has confessed to having a rather strange career ambition… to star in ITV’s Downton Abbey! The EastEnders newcomer claims that he has the right abilities to land a role in the award-winning period drama series.…

So-sexy sequins This lovely sequinned masterpiece clings like a second skin on Brazilian model Alessandra Ambrósio, 32. The flowing fishtail suits most shapes and is ideal for balancing curvy hips. Beady eye Denise Van Outen, 39, looks amazing in this stylish full-length beaded gown. And we’ve got serious envy about that YSL clutch! It’s a scoop! Reality TV star Kelly Osbourne, 29, wisely opted for a dress that shows off her natural curves, and emphasises and nips in her waist. The wide neckline is mega-fattering and conceals her upper arms. Cut it out Actress Naomi Watts, 45, shines in this chic Giorgio Armani gown with a one-shoulder cut-out detail – perfect for flashing just the right amount of flesh. Pump up the volume A-lister Natalie Portman, 32, knows a thing…

We were delighted to hear that Lynda Bellingham’s chemotherapy came to an end recently after five months of treatment, and no one could be happier than her devoted husband of five years, Michael Pattemore. Speaking for the first time, Michael, 57, opened up about the ‘devastating’ effect her diagnosis had on him. ‘We had no idea it was coming and it was devastating, absolutely devastating. I cry every time I think about it,’ Michael said of the moment the pair were told the news back in July. ‘It brings you down to earth’ Staying positive The actress, 65, who has chosen not to reveal which type of cancer she’s being treated for, has kept a positive attitude since finding out she was battling the disease, telling Eamonn Holmes and Ruth…

What did Christmas used to be to you? Real trees, carol singers on your doorstep, turkey dinners, all the family watching the Christmas edition of Morecambe & Wise on the telly, mince pies with brandy butter, nuts and dates, Dubonnet and After Eights… Now think of how you’ll be spending it this year. According to statistics, the traditional pine tree is on its way out, with two thirds of us now preferring an artificial one. Even better, why not buy one with the lights already built in? Fading traditions And there’s no taste for mince pies either, bakers say. Tesco has reported a 1.5% fall in sales and are now replacing the mincemeat filling – the recipe handed down by mothers to their daughters for centuries – with new flavours,…

Do you always decorate the tree on the same day each year, cook the turkey in a particular way then huddle round the TV for the Queen’s Speech? According to statistics*, we’re creatures of habit, with 95% of us taking part in the same Christmas routines every year. Yet seven out of 10 of us also like to put our own unique spin on things. So from renditions of silly songs to making sure loved ones are always remembered, here are some of your best Christmas Day moments. TASTY TREAT On Christmas Eve, my granddad loved treating all the family to a KFC feast. Sadly, he passed away in 2008, but we’ve carried on the tradition ever since. Each year instead of presents, my grandma sends us some money and…

Pass the pudding! Packed with super-healthy dried fruits, a small portion of the traditional Christmas dessert can actually provide a bit of a health boost. Raisins are full of iron and high in potassium to help head off high blood pressure – one in three Britons has hypertension, a major risk factor for strokes and heart disease. They’re also great energy boosters and full of antioxidants. Sultanas contain calcium and magnesium to strengthen bones and ward off osteoporosis. Currants have four times the vitamin C of oranges to help fight winter colds, while almonds bring down cholesterol levels. If only brandy butter had similar benefits! 3 step fx Jangle bells If Christmas is sending you off the scale on the stress barometer, take action now. Remember, it’s actually supposed to…

Best of British SERVES 8 PREP TIME 5 MINS COOKING TIME 15 MINS Fry 750g sausages according to pack instructions. We love Tesco Butchers Choice British 12 Chipolatas, £1.99, and Tesco Finest British 12 Pork & Honey Chipolatas, £3.19. Drizzle with honey and mustard. Heat 400g pack mash, add 100ml milk, 75g butter and 3tbsp wholegrain mustard. Stir until smooth, then serve with the sausages and 200g tomato chutney. NUTRITION PER SERVING 416 cals, 15g protein, 25g carbs (14g sugars) 29g fat (13g sats) 2g fibre, 2.6g salt Mini fish and chips SERVES 8 PREP TIME 5 MINS COOKING TIME 20 MINS 2 packs of Iceland 12 Fish, Chip And Mushy Pea Stacks, £2. Cook according to pack instructions. Stir 1tsp chopped mint into the peas and sprinkle the chips…

We made 10 strict rules, with punishments if we broke them This Christmas, millions of stressed-out mums will be going round supermarkets piling festive food into an already heaped trolley. They will be overspending on tempting two-for-ones, frantically hunting down stuffing mixture and crossing items off endless lists. Not me! While they’re fighting over the last turkey, I’ll be taking my husband, Ian, 28, and our daughter, Lizzie, 18 months, to visit the pig farm where our gammon joint for Christmas Day will come from. Then I’ll wander around the farmers’ market chatting to the people who grew our Brussels sprouts, and I’ll buy yeast from the local baker to make bread. Because I’ll never go to a supermarket again after banning them from our lives a year ago. I…

Ladies Cream Thermal Ankle boots, £25.95 These water-resistant and fleece-lined boots are designed to keep your feet warm and dry come rain, sleet or snow. For extra stability, the sure-grip TPR soles have a hidden spring-mounted, retractable ice grip inside each heel. Available in UK sizes 3-8 (36-42). Winter-Proof boots, £29.95 Be ready to face the worst of winter! Double-sided touch fastenings let you slide your feet in with ease. The thick, non-slip sole and acrylic pile lining are the ultimate in comfort. Made from faux suede, they are hard-wearing and easy to clean. UK sizes 4-7 (37-40).…

New Zealand WHY GO? Visitor numbers peaked with the Lord Of The Rings trilogy, then dipped, and look set to rise again in the wake of the showcasing of its scenic splendours in Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit movies, plus the TV series Top Of The Lake, set in the alpine heart of the country’s South Island. Although it may look titchy on the map next to its big brother Australia, you need to give it at least two – and ideally three or four – weeks to experience the full effects of this magnificent country from head to toe. TRAVEL WITH Bridge & Wickers (bridgeandwickers.co.uk; 020 364 2 9613). WHEN TO GO Our winter, their summer, October to Easter. Le Marche, Italy WHY GO? Draw up a list of all…

Crush It was on a boy from school called Caspian. I was only eight and I think half the reason I liked him was for his fabulous name and the other half was because he was the only boy I knew with a trampoline. Kiss It was ghastly! I was 13 and at the cinema with some of my friends when this boy lent across and thought that, instead of letting me watch the film in peace, he’d stick his tongue in my mouth. Just awful. Fashion disaster Oh God, there have been so many! Back in the ’80s, when I was always taking things one step too far, I actually went out wearing high-waisted jeans, a flying jacket from the local army-surplus store and a JCB company tie. Don’t…

FLYING SOLO Strictly Come Dancing’s Bruno Tonioli, 58, has revealed that he’ll be heading off to the tropics for a much-needed break this Christmas – on his own! The loveable judge explained, ‘sometimes I’m with friends but this year I will probably go on my own. I don’t mind because you are always connected by email, iPad, phones. sometimes the only way to really unwind is to disconnect completely, read books, eat when you want to eat, sleep when you want to sleep.’ we’ll come with you, Bruno! Strictly snubbed! Pro dancers James and Ola axed from the tour – will they quit? Strictly professional couple James and Ola Jordan have admitted they may not return to the show in 2014, after a source revealed they ‘wouldn’t be needed’ for…

Amanda Holden is Christmas mad. She starts on the mince pies and Baileys in November and keeps on going right through to December! The Britain’s Got Talent judge, 42, tells us she spends the festive season at her home in the Cotswolds with husband Chris, daughters Lexi, seven, and Hollie, nearly two, and her mum and nan. Woman’s Own sat down with Amanda to ask her all about blowing the budget, stuffing her face with cheese and being ‘b*******d’ by Simon Cowell… How do you celebrate Christmas? We’ll be at our house in the country with my parents and 93-year-old grandmother. I do all the cooking because I like to give my mum a rest at Christmas, but she’s already making Christmas cake and mince pies. I do get a…

My fingers worked at the foil wrapping, revealing a chocolate-covered toffee beneath. I did it as if in a trance. Well, in a way, I was. It was Christmas Day, I was full of fillet steak and I was concentrating on watching the Queen on telly. So I popped the sweet into my mouth just as mindlessly. But somewhere between the second and third chews, it hit me, what I was doing… it could be 50 calories! I spat it straight out into my hand. My husband Phil barely turned a hair. He was used to me doing this mid-mouthful – taking a bite and then changing my mind because I was always on a diet of some kind or other. They ruled my life. I had so many calorie-counting…

Is it love or simply lust? My 27-year-old son has just told me he plans to propose to his girlfriend on Christmas Eve. I said I was happy but why the rush? Turns out his wife-to-be is a strict Christian and sex before marriage is forbidden. I fear my son’s lust is clouding his vision, but I’m not sure if there’s anything I can say or do about it. Do you have any advice? Janice, 63, London You did absolutely the right thing by saying you were happy with his decision. Knowing you are genuinely pleased means you’ll have his ear when you delicately start offering how wonderful it is he’s found a partner who shares the same beliefs and goals as he does. He may take the bait (by…

Some children know what they want to be from a very early age. My son Andrew was like that. I remember him aged five, turning a box into an imaginary camera and carrying it around, filming me. ‘I’m going to be a big TV boss one day,’ he would say. ‘And buy you a sports car.’ I had split from his dad when he was six months old so, to a single mum struggling for money, that sounded very nice indeed! Andrew loved everything about television and we’d sit together at our home in Southsea, Hampshire, watching his favourite game shows. Then two years on, after a failed relationship, I had a little girl, Emma. It was the early 1990s and she was just a toddler when the TV showed…

In the news Wine racket? Most of us don’t think twice about bunging the odd bottle of wine in the trolley while doing the weekly shop. But investigations by BBC1’s Watchdog discovered many discounts offered weren’t the booze bargains you might assume. They found one Pinot Grigio ‘on sale’ at £5.49 (down from £10.99) but it had only been on the shelves at the higher price for 63 days out of the past 365. Price comparison site winesdirect.co.uk is a useful tool and has voucher codes for most of the big online retailers, with great offers including £40 off your first case and half-price bottles. 5 steps to... safer online sales shopping Up to five million of us are expected to start bargain-hunting from our sofas this Christmas, before the…

Aries 21 Mar – 20 Apr Your other half may be driving you nuts this Christmas. They’re either running round like a headless chicken, or changing their minds every five minutes about how everything should be. as we near the big day, there could be a fall out. Keep calm and carry on! For more call 0901 609 4780* Taurus 21 Apr – 20 May As you dash from party to party, it dawns on you that a relationship with someone or something hasn’t turned out the way you’d hoped. There may be a touch of sadness, but now’s not the time for action. Enjoy your Christmas and leave it until new Year. For more call 0901 609 4781* Gemini 21 May – 20 Jun A mini-crisis has come to…

Decorating disaster I had a chuckle to myself when I read that Ruth Langsford doesn’t trust Eamonn Holmes to wrap the presents at Christmas [22 November]. My husband’s not the best at that kind of thing either. Last year, I left him alone to decorate the tree while I was away for the weekend. What a mistake that was. Garish colours, mismatched baubles – it hurt my eyes to look at it! Kelly Bristow, Nottingham Special tribute I’d like to thank the wonderful RAF Red Arrows, who practise not far from where I live. Recently, they few over the village, at my request, to honour a local farmer who had sadly died. He’d lived here all his life and was used to seeing and hearing them when out and about…

As Priya Sharma, she’s been at the centre of some of Emmerdale’s most intense scenes. But is actress Fiona Wade, 34, feeling the pressure? Of course not. After a day’s work, she’s sitting on her sofa with a takeaway! We caught up with her to find out about her Christmas traditions, why the soap’s cast wouldn’t do a Secret Santa, and her real feelings towards pal ‘It’ll be a nice big Filipino Christmas!’ Emmerdale won the Best Soap award recently. How did you celebrate? We were all working so just a few people were selected to go to the actual ceremony. We found out when we were chilling at home. We were all so excited. Getting the recognition we deserved after such a long time is incredible. The live show…