WW17 2023

WOMANSWAY.IE 51 Picture This Do you have photos you’d like to share? Send them to [email protected] GET IN TOUCH Nightly visit from the local hedgehog. From: Rachel Sammon, Co Offaly Find out what Woman’s Way readers have been up to recently… Play time with Blackie. From: Marie Harney, Co Kildare The Falls in Ennistymon in full fl ow. From: Nuala Cusack, Co Clare Dog walk in Kells with a gorgeous gang. From: Angela Garvin, Co Cavan Muffi n with her toy fi sh. From: Colette Fee 51 WW17 Picture This KOT2CCNORASFINAL.indd 3 09/08/2023 11:53

TIMEOUT 52 WOMANSWAY.IE REMEMBER WHEN? 1 • Mary Robinson was elected the seventh President of Ireland. • Sammy Davis Jr died. • West Germany won the FIFA World Cup in Italy. • Maeve Binchy's novel Circle of Friends was published. 2 • Marilyn Monroe died. • Brazil won the FIFA World Cup in Chile. • Irish folk music bands The Chieftains and The Dubliners were formed. • Acker Bilk scored a hit in the USA with Stranger On The Shore. 1990, 1962. ANSWERS: ENTER TO WIN QUINN HAIR & BEAUTY HOW TO ENTER Please send a picture of your completed crossword grid to [email protected] No postal entries please. The closing date for entries is August 28, 2023 This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. One lucky reader will receive Silcare QUIN professional haircare products, including serums, shampoos and conditioners, and Quinn & Beauty hair tools to tame your locks. Visit quinnhairbeauty.com WORTH €75 No postal entries please. The closing date for entries is August 28, 2023 A newsreader, I was born in Eastwood, Nottinghamshire, in 1958. I have worked for Sky News, Classic FM, and as a presenter on the morning show GMTV. In 2006, I participated in the BBC1 talent contest Just the Two of Us with singer Curtis Stigers. In 2016, I began presenting the Saturday Breakfast show on TalkRadio. Born in London to a mother from Mayo and father from Edinburgh, I moved to Galway with my family aged 12. I became known for the comedy panel show, Don't Feed the Gondolas and am the voice of The Restaurant. I was voted ‘Radio’s Sexiest Voice’ in 2010. CELEB PIXELS PENNY SMITH; SEAN ANSWERS: MONCRIEFF. PRIZE CROSSWORD 17 ACROSS: 7. MOTIVE (6) 8. POWERFUL (6) 10. MAIM (7) 11. BENEATH (5) 12. RESTAURANT (4) 13. WIDE (5) 17. SEVERE (5) 18. TRANQUIL (4) 22. WRONG (5) 23. SCARF (7) 24. BECOMING (6) 25. CUE (6). DOWN: 1. FORECAST (7) 2. FORGE (7) 3. UNCERTAINTY (5) 4. HUMOROUS (7) 5. PREPARED (5) 6. TALE (5) 9. TEDIOUS (9) 14. TRANSIENT (7) 15. VOCATION (7) 16. GREEN (7) 19. ROBUST (5) 20. DYKE (5) 21. ATTACH (5). QUICK CROSSWORD SOLUTION ISSUE 16 ACROSS: 1 MOIST; 4 DRASTIC; 8 ROSTRUM; 9 CLOWN; 10 ITEM; 11 INVEIGLE; 13 RAID; 14 HINT; 16 AQUILINE; 17 DODO; 20 ICING; 21 APPRISE; 22 NUNNERY; 23 DUMMY. DOWN: 1 MORTIFICATION; 2 ISSUE; 3 TIRE; 4 DEMAND; 5 ACCREDIT; 6 THOUGHT; 7 CONFECTIONERY; 12 DIALOGUE; 13 REUNION; 15 INFAMY; 18 OPIUM; 19 SPED. IMPOSSIPUZZLES 1 “I just made up another puzzle with Kalotan measurements,” said Annemarie. “There’s a perfectly square box close up to the wall, and a ladder against the wall just touching one edge of the box.” Annette nodded. “An old idea,” she declared. “How far is the foot of the ladder from the wall, and how high up the wall is its top?” “The ladder is 221 kells long, and the edges of the box under it are 60 kells, so what is the highest position up the wall that the ladder can reach?” 2 “Did you notice what time I came in at this afternoon?” asked Deirdre. “I forgot to look.” Clár smiled. “As a matter of fact I did,” she told her. “The minute hand of our clock was on a minute, exactly 17 minutes ahead of the hour hand.” LADDER TOP 204 KELLS UP THE WALL. 1: 124 PM. 2: 52 WW17 Timeout KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 03/08/2023 16:07

TIME OUT WOMANSWAY.IE 53 THE BIG QUIZ 1>> Who has replaced Mary Kennedy as a judge on The Rose of Tralee? A Anne Doyle B Eileen Dunne C Nuala Carey D Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh 2>> Which Italian dessert is made with mascarpone cheese, sponge fi ngers and coffee? A Panettone B Tiramisu C Cannoli D Sfogliatella 3>> Who was a groomsman at Fair City's Ryan Andrews’ wedding? A James Kavanagh B Jim Bartley C James Patrice D Maclean Burke 4>> In which county is Roaringwater Bay located? A Cork B Wexford C Limerick D Kerry 13>> Who starred in the fi lm Pulp Fiction as Vincent Vega? A Quentin Tarantino B Samuel L. Jackson C John Travolta D Bruce Willis 14>> Which Swiss cheese has a nutty fl avour and is often used in fondue? A Emmental B Appenzeller C Mutschli D Gruyère 5>> Who recently announced their departure from RTÉ after 25 years? A Martina Stanley B Sinéad Crowley C Vivienne Traynor D Sinéad Hussey 6>> What is Lorelei Gilmore’s father’s name? A Paul B Paddy C Robert D Richard 7>> Which Kerry town's name translates as ‘church of the sloes’? A Killarney B Tralee C Dingle D Kenmare 8>> The technology company Meta was formerly known as what? A Facebook B Bebo C MySpace D Twitter 9>> The Tree of Life can be found where? A Dubai B Bahrain C Qatar D Oman 10>> What is Madonna’s middle name? A Jessica B Irene C Giséle D Louise 11>> Who said, "In this world, nothing is certain except for death and taxes?” A Winston Churchill B Éamon De Valera C Benjamin Franklin D William Shakespeare 12>> Lough Key is found in which Irish county? A Kilkenny B Roscommon C Leitrim D Longford 1 C, 2 B, 3 C, 4 A, 5 B, 6D, 7A , 8 D, 9 B, ANSWERS: 10 D, 11 C, 12 B, 13 C, 14 D. 2 3 10 9 8 13 14 53 WW17 The Big Quiz KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 03/08/2023 16:08

54 WOMANSWAY.IE By Katie Wright, PA E mily Scott has called Cornwall her home for 25 years, but the chef’s roots in the region go back even further. “I spent a lot of time in Cornwall as a child, because my grandparents had a house down here,” says Scott, 48, on a video call from her home near Newquay. “And also in France, because my grandfather was half-French and they lived out in Provence.” Born in Sussex, Scott moved to the picturesque village of Port Isaac aged 23 and married her first husband, a fisherman. The couple had three children, Oscar, 21, Finn, 20, and Evie, 18. “Sadly, I divorced the fisherman – or not sadly, I’m not sure – but actually, it’s all very amicable. “But I chose to stay in Cornwall… and my career has just grown and got better and better.” Scott’s first foray into food was the seaside Harbour Restaurant in Port Isaac, followed by eight years running the much-loved St Tudy Inn gastropub and rooms. Now, she’s creative director (“I’m not apron-on as much as I used to be”) at Emily Scott Food, the restaurant that sits on the sea wall at Watergate Bay. What unites all these culinary outposts? “I’ve been banging the simplicity drum for a long time – my food’s all about seasonality, but also not too much faffing around.” That ethos is evident in her second cookbook, Time & Tide, which includes plenty of one-pot main dishes, simple suppers and satisfying bakes. “It’s about times of day,” says Scott, who lives with her partner Mark Hellyar, a winemaker, and her children. “There’s a lovely chapter called ‘morning café’ with lots of nods to my French roots, because that’s just a very natural thing for me. We’ve got ‘rise and shine’, meaning breakfast time, we’ve got ‘seaside soirees’.” The recipes reflect Scott’s trademark CornishFrench fusion with seafood – scallops, mussels, mackerel, crab – taking centre stage alongside French culinary classics like beurre blanc, bouillabaisse, ratatouille and crème brûlée, while Cornish sea salt and clotted cream appear on many an ingredients list. The book cover features a quote from American actor and foodie, Stanley Tucci, who has become a friend. “It’s just been a very natural coming together through food,” says Scott. “You know, when you see him on television in his Italy series, he genuinely is that person. He genuinely loves food and wine, and that’s what connects everyone in my view.” The chef and author didn’t always have such a favourable view of feasting. She had anorexia in her teens and was forced to drop out of school. After going in and out of treatment, she was offered the opportunity to go and work in a hotel restaurant in France. “It’s quite a normal thing for people with eating disorders to end up in food, I think, because, I mean, you can’t give up food,” Scott says. “I just ended up – kind of through choice – just recovering, and turning my rather unhealthy relationship with food around, and finding the joy of cooking for people.” In 2021, the restaurateur got the chance to cook for some very important people when she was asked by the Cabinet Office to cater a dinner for world leaders at the G7 summit in Cornwall’s Carbis Bay. “They were looking for something slightly different – they didn’t want the very formal, old school, white gloves [style],” Scott says. “I submitted my menu and told them I’d be giving them tea towels as napkins, and we’d have French Duralex glasses, mismatched cutlery, that kind of thing, and they loved it.” On the menu was melon gazpacho, turbot with miso beurre blanc sauce, and strawberry and Emily Scott on the joy of simplicity and cooking for President Joe Biden. FUSS-FREE FOOD 54-57 WW17 Emily Scott KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 12:20

WOMANSWAY.IE 55 RECIPES By Katie Wright, PA Continued overleaf >> elderfl ower pavlova, followed by “little mini ice creams for the petit fours and Cornish fudge we made. So it was all quite nostalgic nods to the seaside.” What was it like emerging from the kitchen at the end of the meal to greet diners including then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel? “It was literally like, you know when you go to a friend’s house for dinner, but you’re really late and you turn up and everyone’s had a drink? I was suddenly surrounded,” Scott recalls. “President Biden had his arm around me, I had Macron and his wife signing my book, because my book had come out the day before, then I had Angela Merkel saying, ‘We must get a photograph now, come on’. It was quite a moment really.” Even better, the proud mum got to share the experience with her kids: “Oscar, my eldest, and my partner’s daughter served the world leaders, and my son Finn was in the kitchen cooking as part of my team. I thought, as a parent, I’m done!” Plus, the feedback on the food from the VIPs was top notch. “They loved it. And what was so nice is I said to [the organisers], ‘I want them to be relaxed. I want them to stay longer’,” Scott says. “The secret service were like, ‘They ran over time, they were so relaxed.’ We did our job.” “It’s quite a normal thing for people with eating disorders to end up in food... you can’t give up food” 54-57 WW17 Emily Scott KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 12:20

56 WOMANSWAY.IE DAUPHINOISE POTATOES WITH SPINACH AND CLOTTED CREAM Serves 8 This decadent side dish is the perfect partner for meaty main dishes. “Layers of potato interleaved with clotted cream, spinach, a hint of garlic and nutmeg – a dish that will bring you together with people you love,” says chef Emily. “Wild garlic is a perfect replacement for the spinach, when it is in season. It has a subtle fragrance and works in pesto, risottos, pasta, scones and here in this delicious dauphinoise.” Ingredients: 50g (2oz) unsalted butter ROAST CHICKEN WITH CHORIZO, GARLIC AND ROSEMARY Serves 4 The Cornwall-based chef loves this one-pot wonder. “There is nothing more comforting than a roast chicken – a go-to every week and something my family are always happy to see,” says Scott. “The chorizo, lemon and rosemary create a wonderful gravy of buttery golden juices; with the potatoes and garlic, it really is a delicious one-pot recipe.” Ingredients: 1 whole properly free-range chicken (about 1.5kg/ 3lb 5 oz) 50–100g (2–3½oz) unsalted butter, softened 6 rashers of unsmoked streaky bacon 2 lemons, halved 8 rosemary sprigs 12 garlic cloves, left whole and unpeeled 2 tablespoons olive oil 300g (10 ½oz) chorizo, thickly sliced 500g (1lb 2oz) small new potatoes, left whole Cornish sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan/400°F/Gas 6). Place the chicken in an oven-to-table roasting dish. Rub the breasts and legs with the butter, season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then place the streaky bacon over the breasts of the chicken (this protects the breast meat for the fi rst part of the cooking, keeping the meat moist and adding delicious fl avour. The crispy bacon becomes the cook’s perk). 2 Place the lemon halves and most of the rosemary in the cavity. Arrange the garlic cloves around the chicken in the oven dish, then drizzle the whole chicken with the olive oil. Roast in the oven for 15–20 minutes until the bacon is crispy. 3 Remove the dish from the oven, remove the bacon and set aside. Baste the chicken with the buttery and lemony juices, then arrange the slices of chorizo and small potatoes around the chicken with the remaining rosemary sprigs. Return to the oven to roast for 45 minutes–1 hour until the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear (test by inserting a skewer into a leg). 4 Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Carve and serve with the buttery, golden juices, with the roasted potatoes and chorizo, accompanied by greens or a green salad. 54-57 WW17 Emily Scott KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 4 08/08/2023 12:20

RECIPES WOMANSWAY.IE 57 Time & Tide by Emily Scott is published by Hardie Grant, priced €39.20. Photography by Kristin Perers. Available now. BLACKBERRY AND PEACH CRISP Serves 4 The chef’s take on a classic crumble adds sweet and succulent peach into the mix. “This recipe is so simple and versatile – I use it to top fruit throughout the seasons,” says chef Emily Scott. “It is lighter than a traditional oat crumble topping, and delicious served with custard or crème fraîche.” Ingredients: For the Amaretti crumble topping: 160g (5½oz) amaretti biscuits 80g (3oz/scant 1 cup) fl aked (slivered) almonds 75g (2½oz) unsalted butter, at room temperature 50g (2oz/scant ½ cup) plain (all-purpose) fl our 50g (2oz/scant ¼ cup) caster (superfi ne) sugar For the bramble and peach fi lling: 350g (12oz) blackberries 6 peaches, skinned and stoned (pitted), sliced (if using frozen peaches, thaw and drain fi rst) 100g (3½oz/scant ½ cup) caster (superfi ne) sugar 3 tablespoons cornfl our (corn starch) slaked with 2 tablespoons water zest and juice of ½ lemon Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan/400°F/Gas 6). For the crumble topping, blitz the amaretti biscuits with the fl aked almonds in a food processor to a rubble. 2 In a mixing bowl, rub the butter and fl our together to resemble breadcrumbs, then add the sugar along with the almond rubble and mix together. 3 Spread the mixture out over a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 10–15 minutes until golden. Allow to cool. 4 For the fi lling, place the blackberries, peaches, sugar, cornfl our mixture, lemon zest and juice in a heavy-based saucepan and slowly bring to a simmer, stirring all the time to allow the sugar to dissolve. Cook until the fruit is tender. 5 Transfer to an oven-to-table baking dish and sprinkle over the amaretti crumble topping. Finish off in the oven for 5–6 minutes. Don’t forget the cream. WW 300g (10 1⁄2 oz/1 1⁄2 cups) clotted cream 150ml (5fl oz/scant 2⁄3 cup) crème fraîche or Rodda’s double (heavy) cream 1 whole nutmeg, for grating 1.2kg (2lb 10oz) waxy potatoes, peeled (Desirée potatoes work well) 900ml (30fl oz/3 1⁄2 cups) full-fat milk 2 bay leaves 1 garlic clove, halved lengthways 200g (7oz) baby spinach, washed and stalks removed (wild garlic is a perfect alternative when in season) Cornish sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 160°C (140°C fan/320°F/Gas 2). Grease the sides and bottom of an oven-to-table dish with a little of the butter and set the rest aside to use later. 2 Place the clotted cream and creme fraîche in a bowl and stir together, then add a pinch of sea salt, some black pepper and a grating of nutmeg. 3 Cut the potatoes into 2.5mm ( 1⁄8 in) slices. Place them in a heavy-based pan and cover with the milk, then add a good pinch of sea salt, another grating of nutmeg, the bay leaves and garlic. Bring to the boil and cook for 10 minutes (be careful – the bottom of the pan can catch). Drain, discarding the milk, garlic and bay leaves. 4 Carefully layer the potatoes in the buttered dish alternating them with layers of spinach, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper. Make sure the top and bottom layers are just potato. Pour over the clotted cream mixture, making sure the top layer is just covered. Finish the top off with some more grated nutmeg and a few knobs of the remaining butter. 5 Bake in the middle of the oven for 1 hour, or until golden brown and a table knife passes through with ease. Allow to rest. 54-57 WW17 Emily Scott KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 5 08/08/2023 12:21

58 WOMANSWAY.IE By Prudence Wade, PA GET YOUR GRILL ON 58-59 WW17 BBQ KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 12:23

FOOD WOMANSWAY.IE 59 By Prudence Wade, PA Fire up the grill and get ready to nail al fresco dining this year. BBQ season is here, meaning al fresco dining and deliciously charred dishes. If you haven’t BBQed since last year, you might be feeling a bit rusty, so what should you grill? Are any accompaniments an absolute must? Should you marinate your meat? Luckily, chefs are on hand with their top pieces of advice for nailing your summer BBQ… MAX LA MANNA Zero-waste chef Max La Manna says he’s a “big fan of making sure you have options”. “Having a wide selection of dishes: something that’s fresh, something that could be BBQed… I don’t think you need to have one massive thing of something. “Do small things of everything, because you want options, you want to go back and try a little bit of everything. For me, picnics and BBQs are like a tasting platter. Everything’s laid out – you want to try a little bit of that, try a little bit of this. “I make sure I always provide bountiful salads of different ranges, different colours… Always try to incorporate as much seasonal ingredients as possible. “But what makes summer BBQs fun and enjoyable is who you surround yourself with – the people you have and where you are. That’s important.” You Can Cook This: Simple, Satisfying, Sustainable Veg Recipes by Max La Manna (Ebury Press, €27.50) ANDI OLIVER “For nailing a summer barbecue, marinate your meat, because marinating meat does more than just give fl avour – it actually brings tenderness,” says Andi Oliver. She’s also a bit proponent for brining your meat before BBQing it. “I discovered last year that if you brine chicken or any meat in any tea that you like, it makes it incredibly juicy and tender. So I use an Earl Grey brine with sugar and salt, and a few bits of tarragon and things like that. I brine my chicken overnight in it and then take it out, dry rub it and then slow cook it on the BBQ and it is incredible.” The Pepperpot Diaries: Stories From My Caribbean Table by Andi Oliver (DK, €33.75) PRUE LEITH The Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith is all about keeping things simple on the BBQ. “I think people do too many things on a BBQ – they do sausages and burgers, this that and the other,” she says. Instead, her advice is to “have one thing and get it really perfect”. Leith continues: “I like lamb steaks – you get the butcher to cut the lamb through the leg leaving the bone in, so that you get a little round piece of bone in the middle of a big nice piece of steak. Then just what you need is garlic, rosemary and oil all over it.” Then put it on a “good strong BBQ”, so it’s “almost charred on the outside, [but] still pink in the middle”. The Prue Edit is now available from Kettlewell Colours. LARA LEE As an Australian, Lara Lee knows a thing or two about nailing a BBQ. “If you’re going to BBQ, you need a really nice mix of meats and vegetables – I feel like everyone should not be afraid of BBQing their vegetables,” she says. Whether it’s charred Brussels sprouts or grilled courgette, veg on the BBQ will bring a bit of variety to your plate. “Corn is my go-to for summer BBQs,” she adds. “That’s a really easy one – it’s an easy win because it’s inexpensive, but it looks so great when you serve it.” Like La Manna, Lee also wants people to remember to bring fresh elements to their BBQ. “When it comes to BBQ, you need to have something for everyone – it’s really nice to have some balance and offset your charred smoky meats and vegetables with a fresh salad too.” WW A Splash Of Soy: Everyday Food From Asia by Lara Lee (Bloomsbury Publishing, €27.50) brining your meat before BBQing it. “I discovered last year that if you brine Instead, her advice is to “have one thing and get it really perfect”. round piece of bone in the middle of a big nice piece of steak. Then just what you need is garlic, rosemary and oil have some balance and offset your charred smoky meats and Zero-waste chef Max La Manna says “have one thing and get it really nice mix of meats and vegetables – I feel like everyone should not be afraid of BBQing their vegetables,” she says. variety to your plate. BBQs,” she adds. “That’s a really easy one – it’s an easy win because it’s 58-59 WW17 BBQ KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 12:29

COMPETITION Win 60 WOMANSWAY.IE A NO7 FUTURE RENEW HAMPER Three lucky readers will win an age-defying No7 Future Renew hamper each from Boots. No7 Future Renew is a collection of four skincare products containing a world-fi rst peptide technology that’s proven to reduce the appearance of multiple signs of skin damage*. The Future Renew Damage Reversal Serum contains a new ‘super-peptide’ blend that is proven to harness the skin’s natural repair process and support the renewal of over 50 key proteins in skin cells. “Skin damage happens throughout our lives and is caused by multiple factors,” said No7’s Head of Science Research, Dr Mike Bell. “The new peptide blend effectively tricks the skin into thinking that it has been damaged, which leads to renewal of key proteins such as collagen and fi brillin. It therefore supports skin’s natural self-repair mechanisms. This is a world-fi rst technology only available from No7.” WW Visit boots.ie * According to consumer studies To enter, please answer the following question: WHAT BLEND DOES THE FUTURE RENEW DAMAGE REVERSAL SERUM CONTAIN? HOW TO ENTER Email your answer by August 28 to: [email protected] including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The Boots Competition’ This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. 60 WW17 No7 Future Renew Comp KOT2CCNORASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 12:30

WOMANSWAY.IE 61 FOOD By Imy Brighty-Potts, PA Raspberries galore: How – and why – to get more of them in your diet. Treats Berry-tastic Good news. A bumper crop of raspberries is coming to supermarket shelves after June’s heat delayed their arrival. “As raspberries are in season, it’s the perfect time to include these bites of juicy goodness in your meals. Their health benefi ts are endless,” says Anna Tebbs, head chef and registered nutritionist at Green Chef. “Not only are they surprisingly high in fi bre – roughly about eight grams of fi bre in one cup – they also include a range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. “To top it off, they are loaded with vitamin C, essential for glowing skin and to repair your skin after any sun damage – what a summer skincare hack.” So how can we get more of them into our diet? SALADS Raspberries work just as well in savoury dishes as they do in desserts “For lunch, they offer the perfect sweet touch to any salad: pair with a balsamic dressing and you are good to go,” says Tebbs. SMOOTHIES “Freeze a peeled, small banana and blend with a handful of raspberries, 25g of oats, 200ml of coconut milk and a dash of agave and lime juice for a thick and cold breakfast smoothie,” suggests chef Fliss Freeborn, author of Do Yourself A Flavour (Ebury Press €22.50). NO-CHURN ICE CREAM “This ice cream is magic,” says Freeborn. “Stew down 700g of raspberries with a dash of water and a tablespoon of sugar until you have a coulis, then strain through a sieve and reduce until you have between 200-300ml [left]. “In a separate bowl, whip together a can of condensed milk with 500ml of double cream until soft peaks form, then whip through the raspberries until combined. Spoon into a freezable container and place in the freezer overnight for perfectly scoopable, no-churn ice cream,” she explains. GARNISHING DESSERTS “Forget double cream, buttercream or clotted cream – all you need to top a dark chocolate torte is a layer of plump, jewel-like raspberries. Arrange in a circular pattern and dust with icing sugar to serve,” Freeborn shares. Whatever your choice of summer dessert, raspberries provide a bit of bright decoration and a pop of freshness. BREAKFAST TOPPINGS “My favourite way to include raspberries in my diet is by scattering them on a bowl of cereal, yoghurt or overnight oats,” says Tebbs. CHIA JAM “Add in two tablespoons of chia seeds per 400g of raspberries and half the sugar content of your usual recipe.” For example, this could mean 350g of sugar per 400g of raspberries. Freeborn continues: “The chia seeds thicken the jam and end up just looking like extra raspberry seeds. Chia jam won’t have the shelf life of traditional preserves, so keep it in the fridge and use it after a week.” WW with vitamin C, essential more of them into our “In a separate bowl, whip together a can of condensed milk with 500ml of the raspberries until combined. Spoon into a freezable container and Fliss Freeborn Anna Tebbs 61 WW17 Raspberries KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 03/08/2023 16:09

62 WOMANSWAY.IE By Lisa Salmon, PA SUSTAINABLE REWILDING Alan Titchmarsh warns against rewilding, but how can you boost biodiversity in your garden? “Should a current fashionable – and illconsidered – trend deplete our gardens of their botanical riches” “The word rewilding means many different things to different people,” he says. “What’s the defi nition of wild, and what kinds of wild nature do we value over others? Can wild nature and people coexist, and what does native mean in the changing climate world? This is why there are different opinions on it.” So what does rewilding actually involve, and what’s the best way to boost biodiversity in your garden? How do you rewild a domestic garden? Rewilding a domestic garden can involve simple actions such as leaving a messy area, putting in a pond, letting wildfl owers grow, and easing up on the mowing and planting with nature in mind, explains Rewilding Britain spokesman, Richard Bunting. “They can make a big difference, and can work “As custodians of the botanical riches of our gardens, domestic gardeners have a duty – and a glorious one at that – to ensure the survival of this unparalleled resource. Should a current fashionable – and ill-considered – trend deplete our gardens of their botanical riches then we have presided over a diminution in biodiversity of catastrophic proportions.” But it entirely depends on what’s meant by rewilding, suggests Professor Alistair Griffi ths, director of science and collections for the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). Letting manicured domestic gardens get back to nature through rewilding has become increasingly popular over the last few years – but gardening guru Alan Titchmarsh has warned the trend could be “catastrophic” for biodiversity. The idea behind rewilding is to restore ecosystems so nature can take care of itself, encouraging a balance between people and nature. And the idea seems to be very popular, with a Rewilding Britain poll published last year fi nding 81 per cent support rewilding. But former Gardeners’ World presenter Titchmarsh, who stressed rewilding is important in many places including farms, the countryside in general, woodlands, riverbanks and roadside verges, says: “Domestic gardens with their greater plant diversity, as well as enriching our own lives immeasurably, offer sustenance and shelter to wildlife from March through to November and beyond. Nine months of nourishment. A ‘rewilded’ garden will offer nothing but straw and hay from August to March. A fourmonth fl owering season is the norm.” And the 74-year-old broadcaster and author, who has a two-acre wildfl ower meadow and garden at his Hampshire home, said he found it worrying that “misleading propaganda” suggests only native plants are of value to wildlife and the environment, and added: “The garden is patently far richer – and for far longer – in the variety of insect and bird species it sustains… Alan Titchmarsh 62-63 WW17 Rewilding KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 12:32

GARDENING WOMANSWAY.IE 63 By Lisa Salmon, PA well alongside traditional gardening. “Rewilding offers muchneeded hope. If people want to play their part by creating wilder gardens, and enjoy the benefi ts of bringing more nature into their lives, that should be welcomed.” Do you have to plant native trees and plants? There are some really good examples where both native and non-native work together within a garden, explains Griffi ths. “It’s really about what you do in your garden as to how you manage biodiversity and improve wildlife,” he says. “Often if you put plants and fl owers in your garden, you’ll attract wildlife. We can do a number of things, for example putting in plants for pollinators, which will include natives and non-natives. That will help in providing food and shelter for wildlife.” Such plants include fl owers like lavender, hollyhock, cosmos and hellebore. Does it ma er what you plant? “Plant perennials,” advises Griffi ths. “Trees, shrubs and herbaceous perennials can help with food and shelter for wildlife.” Do you have to stop mowing your lawn? You don’t have to let your grass grow really long everywhere for insects and other wildlife to be attracted to your garden. “Wildlife likes a little bit of short grass and a bit of long grass,” Griffi ths points out. “It’s down to what you want and what space you’ve got.” Is a water feature necessary? Again, this depends on space and preference. “Installing a small water feature – be it a bowl of water if you’ve only got a small area, or a pond if you’ve got more space, often brings lots and lots of wildlife. When you add water you signifi cantly improve and increase areas that attract wildlife.” Should gardeners avoid using pesticides? Griffi ths says people should try their best not to use pesticides in their gardens. And he says if gardeners use a good peat-free mulch on the garden to feed plants, “You’re also creating water and encouraging insects. And if you get composting too, that’s a home for lots and lots of biodiversity.” Do you need to sca er wildfl ower seeds around your garden? Griffi ths says scattering wildfl ower seeds depends on how much space you’ve got in your garden and how you want it to look. He says he’s got birdsfoot trefoil – a yellowfl owering wildfl ower that attracts bees and butterfl ies – on his lawn. “That grows all over the world,” he says. “What we’re really doing is looking at how can we best garden and manage land for increased wildlife and biodiversity, with the challenges of a changing climate. There are many different ways to do that.” WW Prof Alistair Griffi ths Richard Bunting Wild garden with poppies Ponds bring wildlife into a garden 62-63 WW17 Rewilding KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 12:32

64 WOMANSWAY.IE By Hannah Stephenson, PA Urban gardener Alessandro Vitale – known as ‘SpicyMoustache’ on social media – has become a beacon for gardening in small spaces. Vitale, who moved to London from northern Italy seven years ago and grows plants in a space measuring 8m x 5m (26ft x 16ft), offers up a wealth of tips for people gardening on balconies, windowsills and other compact plots. “Even if you live in a high-rise flat, it doesn’t mean you can’t grow anything meaningful,” he writes in his latest book, Rebel Gardening. “My first garden in London was a balcony, which I had for a year and grew many different things. The whole balcony was completely saturated with plants at one point, which was why we decided to scale up and move to a bigger space. “So, try to master the space and understand what you can grow and how many things you can fit in,” he advises. “A balcony is more than enough for anyone to start growing food.” Vitale shares the following tips and tricks for anyone wanting to perk up their balcony or window box… Give yourself room to move around You’ll need space to maintain, water and harvest your crops so make sure you’ve enough space to move around, he advises. Use vertical space “You could have beans and peas growing in the vertical space against a wall or trellis, or you could make hanging containers reusing plastic bottles, putting strawberries, herbs or micro varieties of tomatoes.” Create a herb garden “Herbs are among the most expensive things to buy in the supermarket. You can grow them in a window box, or transform How to perk up urban balcony gardens and window boxes. THE URBAN GARDENER Alessandro Vitale 64-65 WW17 Urban KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 12:33

GARDENING WOMANSWAY.IE 65 By Hannah Stephenson, PA Rebel Gardening by Alessandro Vitale is published by Watkins, priced €23.75. Available now. a windowsill indoors into a herb garden,” he says. Herbs that will thrive in window boxes with a sunny outlook include rosemary, thyme, mint, parsley and basil. Chillies also love the heat of a sunny window box. Make a medicinal window box Vitale has a window box fi lled with droughtloving fl owers like dwarf lavender and calendula, which have medicinal fl owers to make infused oil, skin salves and other fragrant concoctions. Think about watering “Always put trays under pots on a balcony, so you don’t have water dripping down and causing disturbance to your neighbours. Water your plants, wait for the run-off of water into the tray, then use that water on other plants,” he suggests. Position your plants carefully Even if your balcony is south-facing with plenty of sun, place your plants in containers, so you can move them about depending on where the sun hits, but you can also bring them inside in winter. “Place the smallest and lowest pots at the front of the taller ones, to allow maximum sunlight for all,” he advises. Plants that could go in full sun include chillies, tomatoes and aubergines. You could use tall tomato plants as shading agents for lettuce. If you have shade, try planting lettuce, which doesn’t mind semi-shade and in the hottest part of the summer they won’t bolt, he adds. Start small and simple “Many people go into a garden centre and go a bit crazy, buying different plants. Then it’s diffi cult to take care of them. Understand how to grow a particular plant and how it reacts to temperature and other conditions before you scale up. Go for simple plants – don’t overcomplicate it – like herbs, strawberries, tomatoes and courgettes, beans and lettuce,” he suggests. Large pots are great for growing chillies and peppers, or have a go with carrots and Swiss chard in containers. Ask neighbours Your neighbour may be growing their own veg – see what they’ve had success with and you may want to follow suit. Help pollination If you live on the 10th fl oor of a block of fl ats, you may have to manually pollinate your plants by using a brush to move pollen from one fl ower to the other, ensuring you don’t do it using different plant varieties or you may end up with cross pollination, he advises. “Another trick is to shake the fl owers with your fi ngers, which helps to release the pollen and potentially you’ll have a better percentage of pollination.” WW “Go for simple plants – like herbs, strawberries, tomatoes and courgettes, beans and lettuce” THE URBAN GARDENER Pots of herbs Hand pollinating a courgette fl ower Tomato plant growing on a balcony Green bean plant Window box fi lled with herbs 64-65 WW17 Urban KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 12:33

66 WOMANSWAY.IE By Hannah Stephenson, PA Goldfi nch Feathers Fancy 5 unusual birds you may spot in your garden in summer and beyond. 66-67 WW17 Birds KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 03/08/2023 16:10

WILDLIFE WOMANSWAY.IE 67 By Hannah Stephenson, PA Have you ever noticed an exotic-looking bird in your garden and wondered what it was? For those looking to attract unusual birds to their gardens, there’s a variety of plants readily accessible in Ireland, which even the rarest of birdlife can’t resist. Of course, the proximity of your garden to woodlands, water sources and its size will all have an effect on the species you see frequent your grounds, but it is possible to tailor the birds that visit with the plants that thrive right here in Ireland. Here are some you may spot in your garden and in parks, woodlands, conservation areas and while exploring the great outdoors. 1 GOLDFINCH Populations of goldfi nches have been rising steadily in recent decades, as birds have taken advantage of bird food provided in gardens. To attract goldfi nches to your plot, consider planting trees and shrubs that produce smaller berries, such as dog rose and conefl ower. These berries are easier for the smaller species like fi nches and tits to consume. 2 HOOPOE Partial to insects and spiders, this exoticlooking bird has, most notably, a long pinkish-brown crest which it raises when excited, as well as striking black and white wings and a long black downcurved bill. It doesn’t breed in Ireland, yet some can be spotted as they migrate north to Europe from Africa. 3 ROSEATE TERN This elegant seabird is known for its pale pinkish hue and long tail streamers. It nests on coastal sites and can be spotted in a few locations around Ireland during the summer months. These birds are attracted by sea holly – the spiky, blue or purple fl owers can provide nectar for insects, which in turn attract the terns. Alternatively, sea lavender produces clusters of small, lavendercoloured fl owers that can attract insects and provide a food source for the birds. Since 1989, BirdWatch Ireland has been working to conserve and protect Roseate Terns on Rockabill Island – their largest European breeding colony. 4 RED-FOOTED FALCON This small falcon species is a rare visitor to Ireland, and primarily does so during the summer. It has a distinctive reddish-brown plumage and can sometimes be spotted in grasslands or wetlands. To attract them, try planting meadowsweet, a perennial plant with white or pink fl owers that can attract insects, which are prey for the falcons. Marsh thistle also produces spiky fl owers that can attract insects and provide a food source for the birds. 5 BULLFINCH If you’re hoping to attract bullfi nches to your garden, there are specifi c plants you can incorporate to make your space more enticing to these beautiful birds. Bullfi nches are known for their striking colours, with males displaying vibrant pinkish-red breasts. One of the best plants to attract bullfi nches is the crab apple, which “Flowering trees or shrubs will attract insects, increasing the chance of bringing birds to your garden” produces small, colourful fruits that bullfi nches fi nd irresistible. The tree blossoms in spring also provide nectar for insects, which can attract bullfi nches seeking a source of protein. Additionally, planting berries and fruits such as hawthorn and blackthorn can help draw these birds to your garden, as the berries provide an essential food source for bullfi nches, particularly during the winter months when other food options may be scarce. Creating a diverse and layered garden with a mix of trees, shrubs and fl owering plants will not only attract rare birds, but also provide them with a range of habitats and food sources throughout the year. Remember to also provide a water source and create a safe and peaceful environment, minimising disturbances to make your garden a welcoming haven for all bird species. Any fl owering trees or shrubs will attract insects, increasing the chance of bringing birds to your garden. The rarer species such as the redstart and blackcap will be drawn in by the caterpillars and insects that use the berries and fl owers from these species. WW Hoopoe Bullfi nch Red-footed falcon Roseate tern 66-67 WW17 Birds KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 03/08/2023 16:10

68 WOMANSWAY.IE Yarn Vibes is a 100 per cent organic and sustainablyproduced Irish wool, supportive of local producers and rural communities in Ireland. Its vibrant colours are inspired by the beauty of the Irish landscape. 68-69 WW17 Knitting KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 03/08/2023 16:11

WOMANSWAY.IE 69 KNITTING Yarn Vibes Kaylee Triangle Shawl. MATERIALS REQUIRED •1x 100g Yarn Vibes 100 per cent Organic Yarn in Sport Weight – Main Colour (MC) (shawl pictured uses shade Basalt - Undyed as MC) •1x 100g Yarn Vibes 100 per cent Organic Yarn in Sport Weight – Contrast Colour (CC) (shawl pictured uses shade Autumn Birch as CC) • US6 (4mm) Circular Needles • Larger needle to cast off Sizing At widest point = 168cm/66” Depth = 61cm/24” Gauge Please note yarn requirements may alter and fi nished size could differ if your fi nished tension is different to the one stated. In stocking-stitch 18sts x 26 rows over 10cm/4” before blocking 14sts x 24 rows over 10cm/4” once blocked Abbreviations St(s) – Stitch(es) K- Knit P – Purl Pm – Place marker Sm – Slip marker Rs – Right side M1- Make one by inserting the left hand needle from front to back under the strand of yarn which runs between the stitch just worked and the next stitch on the left hand needle. Knit through the back loop. INSTRUCTIONS Garter Stitch Tab Using MC ast on 3 sts, work 6 rows of garter stitch. Rotate work 90° and pick up and knit 3 sts. Rotate work 90° again and pick up and knit 3 sts. You will now have 9 stitches on your needle. Set-up Row K1, pm, k3, pm, k1, pm, k3, pm, k1 Row 1 (RS) – Using MC: k1, sm, m1, knit to marker, m1, sm, k1, sm, m1, knit to marker, m1, sm, k1. Row 2 – Knit all sts Repeat rows 1 & 2 once more (8 sts increased in total) Row 5 – Join CC: work as row 1 Row 6 – Purl all sts Repeat rows 1 to 6 twice more (45sts) Keeping increases set on every RS row work 4 rows in stocking stitch as follows:- Row 19 – MC Row 20 – MC Row 21 – SC (53sts) Row 22 – SC Work rows 1 to 6 as before fi ve times in total (113sts) Keeping increases set on every RS row work 8 rows in stocking stitch as follows:- Row 53 – MC Row 54 – MC Row 55 – SC Row 56 – SC Row 57 – MC Row 58 – MC Row 59 – SC (129sts) Row 60 – SC Work rows 1 to 6 as before seven times in total (213sts) Keeping increases set on every RS row work 12 rows in stocking stitch as follows:- Row 155 – MC Row 156 – MC Row 157 – SC Row 158 – SC Row 159 – MC Row 160 – MC Row 161 – SC Row 162 – SC Row 163 – MC Row 164 – MC Row 165 – SC (237sts) Row 166 – SC Work rows 1 to 6 as before four times in total (285sts) Break CC Using MC and keeping increases as set on all RS rows. Row 191 – Knit Row 192 – Knit Row 193 – Knit Row 194 – Knit Row 195 – Knit (297sts) Row 196 – Purl Using larger needle, cast off loosely in knit. Finishing Using cold water and your choice of wool detergent, wash the shawl gently, squeezing as much moisture out as possible. Pin shawl with the wrong side facing up, this will encourage the edge to gently roll in, creating the desired fi nish. Please Note: In order not to fl atten the garter stitch ridges take care not to stretch shawl too much. Sew in ends once dry. WW Shawl Triangle This easy knit is both beautiful and functional. 68-69 WW17 Knitting KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 3 03/08/2023 16:12

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HOROSCOPES WOMANSWAY.IE 71 Find out what your horoscope has in store for you in the weeks ahead with Patrick Arundell. ARIES 21 March – 20 April Ready for a refreshing change? It might happen, with a wonderful Mars/Uranus tie bringing a surprise offer that could enhance your income. If it appeals, take it, as you could do well out of it. There may be distractions too, but these can pave the way for new developments. The Thursday Leo New Moon could enhance creativity and encourage a romantic bond to fl ourish. TAURUS 21 April – 21 May With some frustration occurring, you may be tempted to speed up the pace by taking a short cut. Doing so could be a lifesaver, but it might affect your reputation if your work isn’t up to scratch. Be speedy but careful. Ready to give your place a makeover? Starting later this week can be an advantage as your love of design and craft is at a peak. You just need to channel it. GEMINI 22 May – 21 June If someone seems resistant to your ideas, don’t try to persuade them otherwise, Gemini. You’d be better to trust your knowledge and experience and let the results speak for themselves. If you have the courage of your convictions, they’ll soon come to. With a potent New Moon in Leo on Thursday, it’s a great time to launch a project that could be a real money-spinner for you. CANCER 22 June – 23 July Short on funds? It may seem this way early on, but the Mars/Uranus link suggests opportunities could arise to enhance your income. You just need to be open to offers and ideas, wherever they come from. Some suggestions might be a bit of a challenge but can still be worthy of your attention. Ready to get fi nances in order? Just making a start may leave you more assured. LEO 24 July – 23 August Feel let down? Midweek could be a disappointment, but this may be replaced by better options that leave you equally enthusiastic. Soon enough you won’t even remember why you felt let down. The New Moon in your sign is the best of the year, and a great time to kick-start new initiatives and plans. Keen to enhance your reputation? Celebrate cuttingedge ideas, Leo. VIRGO 24 August – 23 September If you’re feeling the pace and working hard, the focus on a quieter zone encourages you to avoid burnout. If you can take a break, even if only for a few hours, then make the most of the week. A sterling tie between Mars in your sign and Uranus can bring exciting opportunities you’ll warm to. Practising meditation or yoga may be helpful for long-term peace of mind. LIBRA 24 September – 23 October Perhaps you don’t feel in the mood for socialising, preferring a quieter pace. And yet connecting with others and getting out could make this week extra special. You’ll link up with some fascinating people who may have opportunities and ideas to share. And romance could call out too, Libra. Whether single or spoken for, the Leo New Moon highlights sizzling passions. SCORPIO 24 October – 22 November Certain reservations may be holding you back from reaching your full potential. These could surface early on, but they will not linger. With the days ahead bringing revolutionary ideas and fresh perspectives into the mix, what seemed like a challenge could soon be a breeze. Plus, the Leo New Moon brings a chance to stand out from the crowd and show your true worth. SAGITTARIUS 23 November – 21 December A Venus/Chiron link suggests you may be putting a damper on your plans. This could make you reluctant to take a trip or grasp an opportunity. While caution can be a positive, you might be overly so. With so many possibilities showing up this week, don’t be afraid to see where they take you. The Leo New Moon encourages you to trust your heart, but not be too impulsive. CAPRICORN 22 December – 20 January Move in new circles and you could be offered more opportunities than you’ve had in some time. If you’ve held back due to a fear of trying anything new, the days ahead encourage you to move out of your comfort zone and be more daring. A positive transformation may result from this. Need to let go of something so you can move ahead? Doing so might be a release, Capricorn. AQUARIUS 21 January – 19 February There are interesting developments behind the scenes that could boost your income or provide a good return on any investments. The excellent Mars/ Uranus tie also hints at a surprise which might be a business deal or another offer that gets you excited. And while you may not see eye-to-eye on one matter, the Leo New Moon hints that an idea can get off to an amazing start. PISCES 20 February – 20 March You’ll have opportunities to meet some fabulous people and to work and collaborate with them. A sudden attraction to someone could take things in a romantic or business-like direction, or even both. You’ll also be keen to look after your wellbeing, especially if you’ve been feeling the pressure of work. And the Leo New Moon on Thursday is perfect for adopting healthier habits. WW 71 W17 Horoscopes KOT2CCNORASFINAL.indd 3 09/08/2023 14:59

72 WOMANSWAY.IE To enter, please answer the following question: THE GEORGE FOREMAN INDOOR/ OUTDOOR GRILL CAN BE USED IN APARTMENTS. TRUE OR FALSE? HOW TO ENTER Email your answer by August 28 to: [email protected] including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The George Foreman Competition’ This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. Four lucky readers will win an Indoor/Outdoor Grill, worth €139.99 each, from George Foreman. Even if the Irish weather decides to rain on your weekend plans, with the Indoor/Outdoor Grill your BBQ favourites can still be on the menu. The grill is apartment approved and kitchen ready. With a sturdy removable grill stand, perfect for the patio, the Indoor/ Outdoor Grill has room for over 15 servings of delicious meats, veggies, kebabs, desserts, and more. The BBQ grill is easily removed from the base, and can be safely operated for some countertop grilling indoors. The Indoor/Outdoor Grill's non-stick coating and proprietary fat-removing slope (which removes up to 42 per cent of fat from traditional BBQ foods) mean it is durable, easy to clean, and removes the need for butter and oil. Ensuring perfect results every time, the temperature probe at the side lets you choose from fi ve heat settings, giving you complete control over the speed and intensity your food is cooked at. COMPETITION WIN A GEORGE FOREMAN INDOOR/OUTDOOR GRILL 72 WW17 George Foreman Comp SC2CCNORASFINAL.indd 2 09/08/2023 11:57

ADVICE WOMANSWAY.IE 73 Columnist and trained counsellor Fiona Caine answers another set of reader dilemmas. Dear Fiona If you have a problem you need help with, email Fiona by writing to [email protected] for advice. All letters are treated in complete confidence and, to protect this privacy, Fiona is unable to pass on your messages to other readers. Fiona regrets that she cannot enter into personal correspondence. MY HUSBAND ALWAYS THINKS HE’S RIGHT – AND HAS TO MAKE A SHOW OF IT My husband has always been of the mind that he’s right, and everyone else is wrong. He’s also always had a bit of a short fuse, which I thought he would grow out of as he got older. Unfortunately, he’s now in his early 50s and it’s only getting worse. What’s more, it’s becoming increasingly embarrassing, especially when he lays into some poor so and so who happens to do something he thinks is wrong. If this was limited to venting at other drivers while he’s driving (and he does plenty of that), I suppose I could live with it. But he does this to everyone – from bank clerks to kids working at the local car wash. It’s got to the point where I really don’t want to be with him when he goes out. Last week, he had a full-blown screaming match with a lady who was taking a long time to process her shopping through a supermarket checkout while juggling two children. When I pointed out that one of the children seemed to have a disability, he just shrugged and said she shouldn’t have brought them. I was so embarrassed that I had to leave him to deal with the shopping. He has a difficult, highly-paid job with huge responsibilities, which I am sure stresses him out. I know we need the money, but there really is no excuse for this sort of behaviour in public. I’ve tried to talk with him about it, but he says it’s other people that have the problems, not him. How can I make him see that this is unacceptable behaviour for a grown man? I can’t cope with him anymore, and I have to admit that I have thought about leaving him because of it. K. A. FIONA SAYS: CAN HE ADMIT HE HAS A PROBLEM? My first thought was that he could benefit from an anger management course. However, while he certainly seems quick to anger, I wonder if it’s his stressful job that’s driving this. Assuming there’s no way to reduce the stress in his current job, there’s two ways he could tackle this. Firstly, find a less stressful job. I accept this is easier said than done, especially as you’ve indicated that there may be compelling financial reasons for him to keep this job. However, could he not find a job that perhaps pays a bit less, but compensates by being a lot less stressful? If he can’t, or won’t consider this possibility, would he be prepared to find ways to better deal with the stress? This could involve learning techniques to help him relax, like breathing exercises, meditation, tai chi or yoga. It could also be something as simple as taking a regular walk to clear his head. Perhaps offering to do these things with him might encourage him further. Or start them yourself then persuade him to join in. Counselling is another option. Perhaps cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) could help him identify possible triggers for his outbursts and teach him ways to respond differently to them when they occur. His GP would still be a good place to start. Of course, all of this is dependent on him firstly accepting that he has a problem, and then being willing to do something about it. If he won’t do this and continues to blame everyone else, you may need to explain to him that you are genuinely upset by this and have even been thinking about leaving him. Perhaps this could be the spur he needs to take this seriously before it lands him in trouble – because sooner or later, that’s what’s going to happen. WE’RE DRIFTING APART I have been with my partner for 22 years. Things have been good between us, but over the past few years something has gone wrong. We have always had separate interests and hobbies, but along the way we also stopped simply going out with each other. To make things worse, we both have demanding jobs that keep us busy. Don’t get me wrong, I am not looking to change anything here or start an affair. He’s a good man who respects me and pulls his weight around the flat. But something feels wrong. I have tried to explain this to him, but he says he doesn’t see a problem. We’re drifting apart and I don’t like it. What can I do? B.D FIONA SAYS: WHAT DO YOU WANT? You’re clearly unhappy as things stand, yet you say you don’t want to change anything? If that’s the case, what is it exactly that you want from this relationship? More affection? More communication? More love? If you’re struggling to answer these questions, I think you’d benefit from talking with a counsellor. Some couples are happy to live together without these things, content to co-exist with what is familiar rather than face change. Others need more. It’s possible you’ll be able to rescue this relationship, but if your partner can’t see this, I think you need to face the possibility that it has run its course. WW 73 WW17 Dear Fiona KOT2CCNORASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:00

74 WOMANSWAY.IE By Prudence Wade, PA Wellbeing THROW SOME SHADE Carol Vorderman talks about why her cancer scare means she no longer sunbathes. 74 75 WW17 Wellbeing Opener Vorderman SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:02

WELLBEING WOMANSWAY.IE 75 By Prudence Wade, PA Carol Vorderman was well and truly a sun worshipper growing up. “Oh God, yes. I was burning away merrily for many, many years,” she remembers with a groan. The former Countdown presenter, 62, says her generation was the fi rst to really become obsessed with the sun. “I’m of the generation where we started to sunbathe – my mother’s generation didn’t. We were also caught in the formative years, the '60s, '70s, '80s, where we had absolutely no idea of what sun protection was – you just couldn’t buy it. I think it was the '90s that began,” she explains. “So in all of our youth, we were encouraging each other to sunbathe doused in cooking oil.” Vorderman remembers the ways people would try and boost their tan – from sunbathing surrounded by metal foil (so you could “get all the rays of the sun” and “burn nicely”) to discovering sunbeds (“we thought they were marvellous”) – and she was particularly keen on soaking up as much of the sun as possible, as she grew up by the sea. She says anyone her age “will remember all that”, but now “we know the dangers”. Vorderman is unsurprised by Cancer Research's latest statistics, showing melanoma skin cancer cases have reached an all-time high. According to the charity, 17,500 cases are diagnosed every year. In Ireland, the number is about 1,200 per year. Research suggests people around Vorderman’s age are increasingly affected, with the probability of people aged 55 and older getting skin cancer almost tripling since the 1990s. Vorderman herself had a scare when she was around 50. She was concerned by some changes in her skin, so went to see a dermatologist – who sent off a biopsy for testing, with results revealing the cells were precancerous. The presenter is at pains to emphasise she doesn’t want people to feel sorry for her – “I had no symptoms, nothing like that” and the cells were removed – but she’s instead trying to highlight how crucial it is to be sun safe. “What I do now is I’ve had a checkup every year, all over, ever since,” she says – and that isn’t the only change she’s made. “I slather myself in SPF at all opportunities. In many ways, the damage “I slather myself in SPF at all opportunities. In many ways, the damage is already done, but I don’t sunbathe now” is already done, but I don’t sunbathe now, or I cover myself up.” Vorderman has teamed up with Boots brand Soltan and Macmillan Cancer Support on a sun-safety campaign, and her efforts to raise awareness around the issue aren’t just inspired by her own experiences. Her mother died in 2017 after suffering from three types of cancer – the third being melanoma. “Not a single time in her life did she sunbathe – my mum had a different skin to me, she had moles, I don’t,” Vorderman says. “I know that makes you much more prone to melanomas.” Cancer Research cites a study that found melanoma risk was higher in people with more than 100 moles compared with people who have fewer than 15 moles. For Vorderman, talking about these issues, whether publicly or among friends, is key. “It’s part of life. The more we talk about it, the better it is – as with everything. It’s like talking about the menopause, talking about women’s issues, talking about all sorts of cancers… As we know with all cancers, the sooner you can have something checked, the better the outcome should be.” Vorderman has in recent years made a name for herself for posting her unfi ltered political beliefs on social media, and whether it’s talking about politics or causes close to her heart, she won’t back down. “I’ve always been pretty confi dent, but now you get to a point in life where you think – I feel strongly about things as they stand in this country at the moment. I’ve never known anything as bad. I think everyone should speak out.” She believes in the old saying: ‘The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good people to say nothing’, adding: “I take that with me.” WW 74 75 WW17 Wellbeing Opener Vorderman SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:02

76 WOMANSWAY.IE By Abi Jackson, PA LIFE LESSONS Jodie Kidd talks about love, learning the hard way, and savouring the joys in life. T he supermodel-turnedpresenter, TV personality, racing driver and pub landlady, Jodie Kidd, is involved with a string of new businesses and brand partnerships. There’s also her Kidd In A Sweet Shop YouTube motoring channel – and a wedding to plan (she and former Royal Marine, Joseph Bates, got engaged in late 2021). “I mean, it’s ridiculous, really. I’m like: ‘Dee-dee-diddle-iddle’,” Kidd exclaims over Zoom, making frantic-runningaround motions with her arms. She’s also “a little bit emotional” today as her son Indio (“Indie”) has just had his final assembly at primary school. “There was a lot of tears and a lot of goodbyes. I didn’t know it was going to be that emotional… It suddenly really dawned on me, like wow, that’s the end of a massive era. My baby’s not a baby anymore, he’s going to big school. I’m not ready!” It’s a lot of plate-spinning, but she isn’t complaining. Kidd lights up talking about Indie (“he is just a superstar, I’m so proud of him”) and all of her work projects, which include eco-conscious fashion brand Manava, Skin & Tonic skincare and Indios Foods – her new nutritious ‘pot meals’ range named after her son. She also recently teamed up with Kia for the launch of their new flagship electric vehicle, the EV9. The campaign shoot involved Kidd taking part in a death-defying stunt, wearing a protective chainmail Faraday suit, while sitting on a coil emitting more than a million volts of electricity. 76 77 WW17 Wellbeing Jodie KiddSC2CCNORASFINAL.indd 2 09/08/2023 12:04

WELLBEING WOMANSWAY.IE 77 By Abi Jackson, PA “We obviously had mega health and safety,” she says – while still admitting the element of danger did make it both “fun and terrifying”. “I had full-on lightning bolts coming out of my fi ngers. It’s defi nitely something I will remember forever – and I’ve done some crazy things in my life, especially in photoshoots.” Becoming a parent has made her “a million per cent” more ecoconscious, she says. “I know I fl y a lot, but I try and balance it with doing good things and planting trees. And with my family, it’s really important that we just do little things every day, like using reusable glass bottles, recycling, not using plastic bags.” She’s been able to take on more projects lately as her pub – the Half Moon in West Sussex – “is running itself now” and thriving after a tough few years (Brexit and the pandemic hit the food and drinks industries hard). “I’ve got a brilliant team, a great general manager and cook and kitchen team, they’re smashing it. We’ve got two [AA] Rosettes and we’ve just had our best April/May in seven years. So that is such a joy because it certainly hasn’t been easy,” she refl ects. Buying the pub in 2017 marked a new chapter. Kidd had already been shifting things up for a number of years, stepping back from London and what she’s previously described as a “chaotic” lifestyle. After being ‘spotted’ on a beach at age 15 by fashion photographer Terry O’Neill, she had rapidly become one of the world’s most high-profi le supermodels. But behind the glamour and success, Kidd later talked about the severe anxiety and panic attacks she’d experienced, eventually leading her to reassess. “Everything seems to be just gelling, which is wonderful,” she continues now. “Having a lot of [new companies] does take a lot of effort, but we love to be busy, we’re a really dynamic family and I’ve never been anything but creative. It’s really lovely creating your own things – and some will work and some won’t. Everything I’m doing, I’m trying to be positive and create lovely, good things.” What about switching off, does she fi nd time to relax? “Whenever I possibly can, it would defi nitely be a glass of red wine with Joe [Bates], watching a series, or watching a movie with Indie. That’s peace for me. “But we make things work,” she adds. “And I think if you do things that you really love and you’re so passionate about, it’s just a joy. I really have got to a point now where I’m excited to go to work, it’s in a good place – touch wood – but who knows what next week will bring? “Life will always throw something at you. So, live in the moment, enjoy the now, and be very grateful – that’s kind of how I’m living life.” Has she always had this outlook, or is it something she’s learnt? “Oh, defi nitely learnt – and possibly the hard way,” Kidd says, laughing. “In our younger years, I think we’re all there just to make a complete mess of everything, and to learn and grow and move on and adapt and change. That’s the wonderful course of what we all know as life. I’m sure I, along with everyone else out there, have learned through that kind of route. “I’m in my 40s now - 44, and I think everything does just settle down a bit too, your mind is a little bit more focused and settled. So, it’s something that happens with age, and also learning the hard way.” Once work is less busy and “Indie is at his next school”, she says that she and Bates will crack on with their wedding planning. But they haven’t felt in a huge rush: “We’re both so lovely and happy and settled.” It will be Kidd’s third marriage. She was 26 when she married internet entrepreneur, Aidan Butler, in 2005 (they split 18 months on) and 35 when she wed former British military commander and author, David Blakeley, in 2014 (they split four months on). She was with Indie’s father, Argentinian polo player, Andrea Vianini, for a few years until 2013. She talks philosophically and compassionately when it comes to relationships. Of being happy with Bates, she says: “We have a wonderful balance. He’s incredibly supportive. What I found with previous relationships is that there was often quite a big bit of jealousy around, because I do get to go and do cool things – race around in cars, fl y fi ghter jets and do crazy things – and I found a bit of jealousy has been a big thing in a lot of my ex-relationships. “That’s one thing Joe hasn’t got. He’s immensely strong in himself and he knows who he is, and he’s incredibly loving, thoughtful, and family is number one. We feel incredibly safe and that together we can do anything, which is a lovely powerful feeling to have. We’re just a good team, that has a huge amount of respect for each other, and kindness and love.” WW Above: Walking for Tommy Hilfi ger; electrifying for Kia 76 77 WW17 Wellbeing Jodie KiddSC2CCNORASFINAL.indd 3 09/08/2023 12:04

78 WOMANSWAY.IE By Imy Brighty-Potts, PA Body hair might be a concern in the summer, as you strip down to a bikini or bask on the beach. But, as new research from Dove reveals, 62 per cent of us feel insecure about our underarms. Here’s why these three women are choosing to grow out or whip off their armpit hair, defying the weight of societal expectation. CONTENT CREATOR AND AUTHOR, MEGAN CRABBE What are you doing with your armpit hair this summer? “I won’t be shaving my armpits this summer. I spent so many years shaving my underarm hair on auto-pilot – every shower from the age of 11 onwards came with a shave. I realised there was this part of my body that grows naturally. Letting my underarms grow is another small way of reclaiming my body in the face of misogynistic beauty standards,” says BOLD OR BARE? Why these women are – and aren’t – shaving their armpits this summer. 78 79 WW17 Wellbeing Armpits SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:04

WELLBEING WOMANSWAY.IE 79 By Imy Brighty-Potts, PA content creator and Dove ambassador, Crabbe. What do you think society expects? “People expect women’s underarms to be smooth, hairless and bright – that’s all we’ve seen for so long in advertising and media. I remember seeing so many magazine covers of slim white women with their arms up and barely an indent where their armpit should be, let alone any sign of hair or discolouration. “If I’m in feminist or queer company, I know there will be less judgement, because those spaces are more understanding of bodily autonomy and letting go of societal expectations. ” How do you see your summer body? “I embrace seeing my body from all angles, in all forms, in any season, but it’s taken me a long time to get here. These days, I can see an image of myself in a bikini with visible cellulite, a stomach that isn’t fl at and underarm hair fl ourishing and think, ‘Hey, that’s cute’. “This particular body represents all of the battles I’ve fought – against diet culture, against anorexia, against beauty standards – and won.” CONTENT CREATOR AND MAKEUP ARTIST, SHAHIRA ALLEN What are you doing with your armpit hair this summer? “This summer, I will be doing whatever the mood calls for with my armpits. Sometimes, I let the hair grow and other times, I like it smooth and clean-shaven. Either way, it will be my choice and I’ll make sure I feel confi dent and fabulous about my underarms this summer,” the creator explains. What do you think society expects? “A long time ago, society elevated women’s insecurities and made us believe no body hair on a woman is the way to be feminine. I think society expects me to spend money ‘maintaining my body’ in the most unrealistic way possible,” she says. How do you see your summer body? “I’m still learning to see my body in my 30s and it’s been a long journey. Some days, I love what I see and other days, I struggle with a roll, lump or bump. I deserve to soak up the sun and be happy, and I know there’s a young person out there who needs to see people like me being happy and thriving in our natural bodies.” BODY-POSITIVE CONTENT CREATOR AND LGBTQ+ ACTIVIST, KATIE BUDENBERG What are you doing with your armpit hair this summer? “I will be doing whatever I fancy on a dayto-day basis. Sometimes, I enjoy the feeling of smooth armpits and sometimes I think I look cool with bushes under each pit. I have been tempted to dye my armpits with the lesbian fl ag for Pride Month,” Budenberg laughs. What do you think society expects? “Society would rather not see me at all, and if they have to lay eyes on me, then I must be hairless from the eyebrows down – like a newborn baby, even though I’m a 25-year-old woman. “Women are constantly made to feel like they have to be small, weak and hairless, and I refuse to satisfy this any more; I will take up space, be unapologetically me, and hairy if I want to be,” she says. At left: Megan Crabbe; This page: Shahira Allen Katie Budenberg How do you see your summer body? “My summer body is ready to go. It’s Fed-Girl-Summer this year, where we satisfy our hunger cues, don’t worry about looking bloated and no longer feel the need to suck in our stomachs. I will never let cellulite, body hair or insecurities dictate whether I have a fun time or not again.” WW 78 79 WW17 Wellbeing Armpits SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:05

80 WOMANSWAY.IE By Prudence Wade, PA There’s a reason high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is so popular – it’s designed to give you a killer workout in a short amount of time. HIIT classes are short, sharp bursts of exercises where you’re working out above 85 per cent of your maximum heart rate. Sean Johnson, regional fi tness manager at Orangetheory Fitness, can see why they’re “tempting”. “A lot of people are pressed for time and seek a ‘quick fi x’. To many people, the assumption is ‘no pain, no gain’ and so therefore seek out a hard-hitting, pulseshattering workout to undo the unhealthy habits they may have gotten themselves into,” he says. “A hard workout can feel very rewarding when you move fast and blast around for a short time.” Plus, there are benefi ts to HIIT training, with Johnson saying: “A shorter, more intense workout does have the ability to elicit a longer afterburn compared to a less intense longer workout.” But is there a chance we’re overdoing it, in a bid to ‘get the most’ out of our workouts? There’s a growing trend for lower intensity exercise – often using a heart rate monitor so you can track where you’re at – which might provide a whole host of Health BEAT WORKOUT BURNOUT How hard is too hard? We look at the benefi ts of lower intensity workouts. habits they may have gotten themselves But is there a chance we’re overdoing it, in a bid to ‘get the most’ out of our workouts? There’s a growing trend for lower intensity exercise – often using a heart rate monitor so you can track where you’re at – which might provide a whole host of Sean Johnson 80 81 WW17 Health Open Burnout SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:06

WORKOUT WOMANSWAY.IE 81 By Prudence Wade, PA benefi ts, without making you feel a bit sick. SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE OVERDOING IT “Working at a maximal heart rate can sometimes cause people to feel lightheaded, dizzy, faint and nauseous. This isn’t very fun and can also deter people from coming back,” suggests Francesca Sills, exercise physiologist at Pure Sports Medicine. Johnson agrees: “Working out for too long at an intensity that is too high can put numerous stresses on the body, such as fainting, vomiting and even serious cardiovascular and respiratory health issues.” A heart rate monitor can help you track how hard you’re pushing yourself, but if you don’t have one, Johnson recommends going by “feeling”. Orangetheory uses three terms to defi ne your perceived exertion: “Base pace is a ‘challenging, but doable’ feeling, push pace is an ‘uncomfortable feeling’ and all out is an ‘empty the tank feeling’,” Johnson explains. He doesn’t recommend spending more than a minute in the ‘all out’ section, and other signs you might be overdoing it include “fatiguing earlier than you normally do, dizziness, light-headed, you get injured or have joint and muscle pain regularly”. DOWNSIDES TO HIIT? Sills suggests there aren’t necessarily downsides to HIIT, just “things to be wary of”. She says: “If you’re working very hard for a long time or for longer than you are used to, it’s possible that you’ll fi nish the session feeling unwell rather than energised.” Johnson says there is the risk of overtraining with regular HIIT classes. “In the shorter term, working out at an intensity that's too high can stress your adrenal glands and stimulate the release of cortisol (the stress hormone). In turn, this can havenumerous side effects such as increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, encouraging fatigue and ultimately hindering recovery. “If your body cannot recover properly, you will fi nd it hard to get into a regular routine with your fi tness and will see a lack of results.” THE BENEFITS OF SLOWING DOWN Johnson suggests incorporating lower-intensity exercise into your routine can improve your everyday life. “Doing workouts that don’t raise your heart rate to the extremes can help reduce the risk of injury (and risk of falls and trips), reduce fatigue and pain, elevate your mood, improve sleep quality, while still helping to burn calories,” he says. Sills mentions how ‘zone two’ workouts are now a “hot topic” in the fi tness world – this is a type of low-intensity, sustained exercise where you’re working at around 65-75 per cent of your maximum – for example, going for a gentle jog where you can still hold a conversation. She says these types of workouts are gaining popularity because of the “large amount of benefi t it brings to the health and effi ciency of your cardiovascular and metabolic systems”. If you’re used to leaving it all on the fl oor with an intense workout every time you hit the gym, it can be tricky to know how to slow down. Johnson recommends using the ‘FITT principle’ to adjust your exercise routine: Frequency: Instead of doing your four workouts next week try doing only three. Intensity: Do your normal four workouts, but take it down a notch in each one. Time: Instead of doing four x 90 minute workouts next week, maybe try doing four x one hour workouts. Type: Switch it up and use different equipment or style of workout. Johnson adds: “Having slower days will enable you to focus more on the form and technique, which transfers over to the high intensity days as well.” DOING HIIT SAFELY While it’s a good idea to mix up your workouts with different intensities, there are a few things you can do to make sure you don’t overdo it in HIIT. Sills recommends ensuring “you are eating well to fuel your body for performance”, and “get on top of your sleep routine to allow your body to rest and repair”. If you’re a newbie to exercise, she wouldn’t necessarily recommend a HIIT class immediately: “If you haven’t done much training before, it’s important to learn how to do things right and build a good base level of strength and fi tness before going in and smashing yourself. If you aren’t sure how to perform exercises well when you’re fresh, you aren’t setting yourself up for success when you’re fatigued.” And fi nally, she says: “It’s important to work within your own limits. Often these classes are busy, loud and intense and people can be encouraged to continue to do more weight, more reps, etc. Issues arise when people push too far beyond what they can manage. Instead of working at a 10/10 all the time, drop it back to an eight to nine.” WW “Working at a maximal heart rate can sometimes cause people to feel routine with your fi tness and will see a lack of results.” THE BENEFITS OF SLOWING DOWN Johnson suggests incorporating lower-intensity exercise into your Francesca Sills Gentler workouts have plenty of health benefi ts “Doing workouts that don’t raise your heart rate to the extremes can help reduce the risk of injury (and risk of falls and trips)” 80 81 WW17 Health Open Burnout SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:06

82 WOMANSWAY.IE By Lisa Salmon, PA Eight habits that could help people live more than 20 years longer have been identifi ed by researchers. While it’s long been known that certain lifestyle factors can infl uence lifespan, the American study isolated the eight factors that have the biggest impact – being physically active, being free from opioid addiction, not smoking, managing stress, having a good diet, not regularly binge drinking, having good sleep hygiene, and having positive social relationships. The research was presented at Nutrition 2023, the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, and used data from 719,147 people enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Million Veteran Program. It found low physical activity, opioid use and smoking were associated with around a 30-45 per cent higher risk of death, while stress, binge-drinking, poor diet, and poor sleep hygiene were each associated with around a 20 per cent increase, and lack of positive social relationships was linked with a 5 per cent increased risk of dying. Men who had all eight good habits at age 40 were predicted to live an average 24 years longer than men with none of the habits, according to the fi ndings, and women with all eight habits in middle age were predicted to live an extra 21 years, compared with women with none. Xuan-Mai Nguyen, health science specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, said: “We were really HEALTHY HABITS Researchers identify the key life-extending habits we need to know about. and smoking were associated with around a 30-45 per cent higher of positive social relationships and women with all eight habits in middle age were predicted to live an extra 21 years, compared with women with none. science specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs, said: “We were really Natalie Trice 82 83 WW17 Health Habits SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:07

HEALTH WOMANSWAY.IE 83 By Lisa Salmon, PA while some people may think reaching for a cigarette takes the edge off their stress, there are healthier ways to cope. “Maybe going running or taking up yoga could be the release and focus you need, and one that will help you live longer, smell fresher and feel better,” she suggests. “Also, with the cost of cigarettes going up all the time, giving up will free up cash for the things in life that really need to be paid for.” If you are struggling to quit smoking, talk to your GP about options available to help. 4 DON’T BINGE DRINK “By cutting down on booze, you’re doing your body and brain a massive favour,” says Trice. “Drinking every night will impact your body and could affect your sleep and work performance. Enjoy life, but if you want to enjoy it for longer, then keep tabs on your drinking.” Offi cial guidelines suggest drinking no more than 14 units of alcohol a week (equivalent to six medium glasses of wine of six pints of beer), spread across at least three days. 5 EAT HEALTHILY Generally speaking, a balanced diet that’s rich in fi bre, whole grains, fruit and veg and lean protein, with heavily processed and sugary foods kept to a minimum, is linked with better health. “We all know about eating fi ve-a-day, but doing this can be tough if you’re busy with family and work. If you can start to do this, you’ll feel better,” says Trice. “Focus on eating regularly and thinking about what you put in your body, so that it works for you, not against you.” 6 DON’T TAKE DRUGS Recreational drugs can harm health in a number of ways. Trice suggests those affected start by speaking to a trusted friend or their GP, and “look at the support which could not only extend your life, but save it”. 7 TRY TO GET GOOD SLEEP Trice says: “It’s vital that we look at getting a decent night’s sleep, as this can help you feel so much better. Making sure you have a sleep routine in place can be helpful and can be as easy as having no screens in the bedroom, having a bath or shower before you hit the sack, as well as making sure the temperature is right and you have curtains to keep the light out in the mornings.” 8 NURTURE POSITIVE SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS Trice observes: “If you’re able to nurture a supportive network of friends, colleagues and family, this can lead to improved mental and emotional wellbeing and a longer life.” Lacking social connections? Look at local volunteering opportunities and community walks and groups. Making friends can take time, but even fi nding ways to regularly spend time and interact with others can help. WW surprised by just how much could be gained with the adoption of one, two, three, or all eight lifestyle factors. Our research fi ndings suggest that adopting a healthy lifestyle is important for both public health and personal wellness. The earlier the better, but even if you only make a small change in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, it still is benefi cial.” The researchers say the fi ndings highlight how lifestyle factors contribute to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which are associated with premature disability and death. HOW TO EMBRACE THE EIGHT HEALTHY HABITS Inspired to give your own lifestyle a boost? “If making these small but mighty adjustments could help you to live for an extra 20 years, maybe it’s time to make those changes,” says life and wellbeing coach, Natalie Trice. She shares the following insights and tips… 1 DO MORE EXERCISE Regular exercise can help prevent a wide range of major diseases – plus it’s great for keeping stress levels in check. “Going for a walk, having a swim, running with friends, even just a good old dance-off in the kitchen can get your heartbeat up and those feelgood endorphins pumping – so get your trainers on and start moving,” says Trice. 2 MANAGE STRESS Trice suggests adopting simple stressbusting practices such as mindfulness meditation, and enjoying hobbies and sports. “These can profoundly impact overall wellbeing, as you bring your stress levels down,” she says. “This isn’t about pretending everything’s great, but rather looking at easy habits you can adopt that will take down the stress, which can lead to anxiety and burnout.” 3 DON’T SMOKE Quitting smoking is an essential step in improving health and potentially adding years to your life. Trice points out that “This isn’t about pretending everything’s great, but rather looking at easy habits you can adopt that will take down the stress” 82 83 WW17 Health Habits SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:07

84 WOMANSWAY.IE By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA 84 85 WW17 Household Laundry SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:09

HOUSEHOLD WOMANSWAY.IE 85 By Sam Wylie-Harris, PA FRESH AND CLEAN I t’s one of the great ironies of life: we put dirty laundry in the washing machine so it’ll come out fresh and squeaky clean – yet the machine itself is often the pongiest culprit of all. If you fi nd yourself having to hold your breath when you load and unload laundry, you’re not alone. So, what’s going on with smelly washing machines? “When it comes to the unpleasant odour emanating from washing machines, it’s important to address the issue promptly to maintain the machine’s performance and freshness of your laundry,” says Natasha Brook, assistant brand manager for Dr. Beckmann. From mould and mildew growth to detergent buildup and stagnant water, Brook says a smelly washing machine can be caused by a variety of factors. “One common culprit is detergent residue and fabric softener, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria and mould,” she suggests. “These damp and dark environments provide an ideal condition for microorganisms to grow and produce an unpleasant odour.” Brook says another possible reason is the presence of trapped lint, hair, or other debris in the machine. “To combat this, run an empty cycle with hot water and a dedicated washing machine cleaner,” she suggests. This promises to cleanse the machine and kill up to 99.9 per cent of bacteria and viruses, helping to prolong the machine’s lifespan too. “Don’t forget to also keep the drum and seals clean by wiping these down with a mixture of water and mild detergent to remove any residue or build-up,” Brook adds. Ensuring proper ventilation and allowing the machine to dry thoroughly after each use can also help minimise the chances of developing bad smells. “Leaving the machine door slightly open after washing allows the fresh air to circulate in the drum and prevent the growth of mould and bacteria,” says Brook. HOW TO CLEAN YOUR WASHING MACHINE Jo Jackson, head of product at Fisher & Paykel UK and Ireland, says: “Before cleaning, disconnect the washer from the power, and then use a soft damp cloth to wipe all exterior surfaces as well as the drum and rubber area around the door, then wipe dry.” Avoid using chemical or scouring cleaners, says Jackson, as these can damage your washer’s paint and plastic surfaces. She says it’s important to clean the detergent dispenser too, especially if you use fabric softener. Remove the drawer and wipe it with a damp cloth before rinsing it out under warm water. “The fi lter is what is commonly forgotten about, but this should be cleaned approximately once a month,” suggests Jackson. “Open the fi lter cover typically found on the base of most washing machines. Remove the plug and allow any water to drain into a shallow dish. Remove the fi lter and clean and rinse it in warm water.” WW Here’s how experts suggest you clean your washing machine. or other debris in the machine. “To combat this, run an air to circulate in the drum and prevent the growth of mould and bacteria,” says Brook. HOW TO CLEAN YOUR WASHING Jo Jackson, head of product at Fisher & Paykel UK and Ireland, says: “Before cleaning, Natasha Brook Cleaning out debris in the seal 84 85 WW17 Household Laundry SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:09

By Hannah Stephenson, PA 86 WOMANSWAY.IE By Hannah Stephenson, PA When it comes to being a role model for her children, Judi Love is clear on the message she hopes to instil. “For them to be true to themselves, be true to who they are. That’s the main thing,” says the comedy star and TV personality, 43, who is a single mum to her 18-year-old daughter and 13-year-old son. “I think from there, that would encourage what your purpose is, what kind of work you want to do, the relationships you have, how you defi ne yourself – it’s just being true to yourself. “And treat others how you hope to be treated. Young people are always on a journey and will make mistakes – it’s how you get through them [that matters].” The born-and-bred Londoner – known for her stand-up shows and regular appearances on TV series Loose Women, The Last Leg and Celebrity Gogglebox – says her kids have taught her a lot, too. “They defi nitely teach me resilience, and to live in the moment, oh, I love that about them,” reveals Love, who won Documentary of the Year at the 2023 Visionary Arts Awards in March (for Channel 4’s Black, Female And Invisible). “And my children, if I haven’t got a wig on or a weave on, no eyelashes and I’m wearing in-house clothes and no bra, they love me the same way, and that’s the most beautiful thing. They just see me as mummy fi rst, before Judi Love, and it’s so grounding. “And they’re expensive,” she adds with a laugh. “That’s what they’ve taught me.” Love says keeping communication channels open with her children is key for her as a parent – particularly where the online world is concerned. She has just teamed with Ukie to launch ‘ParentPowerUps’, to help families use parental control settings to manage screen time, in-game purchases and access to ageappropriate content in video games. A survey of 1,000 parents with children aged 4-18 commissioned for the launch found 83 per cent would like to know more about parental controls and how to implement them, and 66 per cent already talk to their kids about the amount of time they spend playing video games. “It’s still encouraging children to play video games, but in a safe way. We don’t want to take away the enjoyment,” says Love. She likes that it focuses on having a two-way conversation as a family – making it feel like “an agreement” and “empowering” children to set healthy boundaries. “And making them feel included, understanding taking responsibility for their actions and safeguarding them, because that’s all you want to do,” Love adds. She’s mindful when it comes to social media too, choosing to rarely post photos of her children and keep their names out of the spotlight – acknowledging this is what felt right for her, even though many celebrities approach things differently. “I think it’s each to their own. For me personally, I decided to be in the public eye, my children didn’t decide to be that,” she explains, adding they can choose for themselves how much they want to be in the public eye when they’re 'at an age to do that'.” What about her own relationship with social media? “As time’s gone on, I use it differently. I know for me it’s important to take breaks from social media – you don’t have to post every day. And what’s really come in useful for me is I restrict how many other pages I see and follow, and I really changed the narrative of the algorithms that come up on my page,” she explains. “It’s more fun stuff – kittens, pets, good holidays, loveydovey stuff. I’ve cut down a lot on anything negative, the news, because we have to protect our mental health. “I know I can tap in and go and read a newspaper or watch the news and I’ll know what’s going on. But the gossip pages and all those kinds of things, I really restrict myself, otherwise it’s relentless.” ALL YOU NEED IS Performing at the Teenage Cancer Trust Concert Winning Documentary of the Year at the Visionary Arts Awards 86 87 WW17 Celeb Love SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:11

WOMANSWAY.IE 87 By Hannah Stephenson, PA By Hannah Stephenson, PA CELEBRITY She’s hoping these things will have rubbed off on her children. “And I really try to highlight with them that they are someone outside of this box of social media, you know? And it’s not just social media and having a camera on your phone and [recording everything] and being distracted. There will be times where it’s no games, no phones – let’s sit and have a conversation, let’s watch an old-school movie and see how that goes. That’s really important.” Seeing the funny side of life is, of course, something she’s made a career out of. Love has previously talked about how “humour is healing” is her motto – helping her through some very hard times, including caring for her mother who had dementia, before she passed away in 2009. “Humour has been healing,” she reflects today. “I grew up around a lot of amazing women – their character was so vibrant, facial expressions and accents. And humour was so vibrant and alive in my life, that I think that’s what I used to get through many different aspects of life, whether it’s good things, adversities, studying, children, there’s always been that one thing that’s followed through, which is humour.” It weaves through family life still. “Kids are funny,” she says with a laugh. “Sometimes they don’t mean to be, but Goddamn, children are just hilarious. And if you don’t laugh your way through parenting, then I don’t know… Those of us who have children, we’ve all had those moment where you’ve changed the baby, you’re about to step out of the house and they’ve done a tsunami poo. You’re dressed up beautifully and didn’t realise there’s vomit on your shoulder, trickling down your back. “We’re all learning on the job. Parenting is one of those things that, you’ve got friends and family around and there’s books to read, but you never know what it’s going to be like until you’re in the motion of it,” Love adds. “As long as you can try and have access to people that encourage and support you, if you can use a little bit of humour to get you through, then why not?” WW “Humour was so vibrant and alive in my life... that’s what I used to get through many different aspects of life” At the 2023 BAFTA Television Awards LOVE 86 87 WW17 Celeb Love SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:11

By Imy Brighty-Potts, PA 88 WOMANSWAY.IE Frozen star Idina Menzel talks about her love for the LGBTQ+ community, what theatre has taught her about life, and her hopes as a parent. Musical star and Broadway legend Idina Menzel said she has a “profound connection” with the LGBTQ+ community. The 52-year-old performer – recognisable to millions as the voice of Elsa in Frozen and the original Elphaba in Wicked – added that her “friends in the queer community” have impacted both her approach to life and her career. “There’s a profound connection and it’s quite emotional for me. I look back on my career, ever since 1995 in the Off-Broadway show Rent in New York City, where I played a bisexual woman, Maureen. “[The community] has just taught me so much about the kind of life I want to lead, through their courage and bravery. They choose to live an authentic, honest life,” Menzel said ahead of her Pride in London performance this weekend. “I don’t feel that my career would be as it is if it wasn’t for my friends in the queer community.” As a parent, Menzel said she is keen to raise her son, Walker, to see the importance of inclusivity too. But at age 13, she added that he and his peers are already a step ahead on this front. “My son and his friends don’t really need too much [guidance]. It’s almost like they don’t understand why we’re having the discussion – their friends are their friends, no matter how they identify,” Menzel explained. “I do a good job in my house, but I think it’s LET IT GO 88 89 WW17 Idina Menzel SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:13

WOMANSWAY.IE 89 By Imy Brighty-Potts, PA CELEBRITY a testament to our kids, and how kids are just born to love each other. It’s us, grown-ups, that somehow poison that.” LGBTQ+ representation in the media is something she believes is important too. “It’s important even more so now. It’s about representation and visibility and diversity – the more that people can see themselves in media, the more understanding and empathy there is in society. It’s all a snowball effect, and so many more people are vigilant about telling real stories now,” said Menzel, who played the mother of Rachel Berry (played by Lea Michele) in musical Fox series, Glee. The show marked a signifi cant change in the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters on screen, featuring openly gay teenager Kurt Hummel (played by Primetime Emmy winner Chris Colfer), years before same-sex marriage became legal across the US. On the topic of representation, Menzel added: “Especially for our trans youth, I think in this time and this world that we’re living in, it’s imperative that they feel represented in our journalism, in our media, in our storytelling, our legislation. And so I think that Glee, Rent and so many shows have led the way. “But we have so much more work to do. We’ve made so much progress, and then we’ve taken so many steps back too.” There has been much speculation among fans on the sexuality of Disney heroine Elsa, a character voiced and adored by Menzel. With a third instalment of the much-loved movies is in the works, does she think more will be revealed? “I do not know the script whatsoever – I only know that we are being asked to reprise our roles for Frozen Three,” Menzel said. “I will say that I trust our creative team wholeheartedly. They love Elsa very much and we all would like to see her have a real partner in her life.” Returning to London to perform at Pride, Menzel said she is excited to be giving something back to the community. “London is one of my favourite cities in the entire world, and I’m honoured to be invited to perform because it gives me an opportunity to really express my gratitude to the LGBTQ+ community, to all my friends and family, there and all over the world,” she continued. Having spent several months in London playing Elphaba in Wicked at the Apollo Victoria back in 2006, she said she knows the city and its LGBTQ+ community well – and credited her time here for helping her relax her rigid “good girl” rules around work. “I can’t party too much and sing the kind of notes that I have to sing and do eight shows a week,” she says, laughing. “[However] on the West End, my British friends and Australian friends taught me that you can actually have a good time after work and still do a good job. It took me a few years in work until I learned that wonderful lesson; that the pub is also good for the soul.” That was not the fi rst big lesson her theatre career taught her about embracing life and doing what you love. On the eve of Rent’s 1996 debut in NYC, Jonathan Larson, the creator and composer of the show, died suddenly from an aortic dissection – a tear in the inner layer of the aorta – at age 35. This loss struck the theatre world and infl uenced the rest of Menzel’s life. “My career started with this beautiful show called Rent, which is all about not taking things for granted, living in the moment… Celebrating who we are, being artistic, having integrity, and a connection to our community,” she recalled. “Having lost Jonathan Larson in the middle of all that has set a real precedent for how I’ve wanted to proceed and try to live my life, personally and professionally. “I’ve learned from Jonathan and Rent that the more we can step out of ourselves and focus on the people we love, the more our perspective changes. So as a mother, it actually liberated me to have a child because it gave me something else to put my attention on other than myself.” As for the infl uence she hopes to have on her son, Menzel continued: “I want him to see a woman doing what she loves to do for a living, and I want him to do that too. “Motherhood for me has been a wake-up call to living. It takes the weight off of being perfect, because when you’re a mother, you’re handling so many different things. “If my son gets sick in the middle of the night, I’m not going to not hold him, just because I’m afraid of getting a cold. I’m going to be with my son – and if I get sick, I get sick. If I can’t sing perfectly that night, well then that’s how it is. “So it takes the pressure off as a performer, as a woman to be perfect, and puts your priorities in order.” WW Rent on Broadway With Josh Gad and Jonathan Groff 88 89 WW17 Idina Menzel SCKOTCCAMASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:16

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CHARITIES WOMANSWAY.IE 91 By Andrea Smith At Woman’s Way, we’re all about the positive power of giving back. Here’s our round up of the best ways to pay it forward this fortnight. LEND A HAND The Garden Table The Garden Table is a fundraising dinner in aid of Cope Foundation, a not-forprofi t voluntary organisation supporting over 2,000 children and adults with an intellectual disability and/or autism throughout Cork. It takes place at the Beech Hill Garden Centre in Montenotte on August 24 from 6pm - 9.30pm. Guests will be welcomed with a selection of refreshments, and can enjoy local and artisan dishes created by Trigon Hotels’ chefs. Each dish will incorporate freshly-harvested fruit and vegetables from Cope Foundation’s sensory garden. Tickets are €92.32 including fees on Eventbrite. Visit Eventbrite for tickets Actor Domhnall Gleeson is supporting Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning Social for Hospice on September 21, or on a date that suits you. You can register to host a coffee morning to support your local hospice, and if you can’t host or attend one, you can make a donation at hospicecoffeemorning.ie/donate. TAKE A BREATH The Asthma Society of Ireland is running an event called Take a Breath over the last weekend of September. The aim is to improve asthma patients’ quality of life and reduce the number of asthma deaths that occur in Ireland. You can hike your own way that weekend or join a guided Glendalough hike on September 30th. You’ll get an overnight stay in sheltered hammocks around a campfi re, with a meal provided under the stars. There is a registration fee of €150, and if you purchase in the month of August, you’ll get an early bird discount of 15 per cent. Register on asthma.ie Domino’s Amazing Race for Barretstown The Domino’s Amazing Race for Barretstown gives teams a chance to compete against each other in a series of exciting and fun challenges to win the Barretstown Cup. The fundraising will support the therapeutic programmes offered at Barretstown to children and families affected by serious illness. The event takes place on September 14 at 2pm. Registration fee for a team of six is €1,200, and you get a Barretstown T-shirt, fruit/water stations during the event, and entry to the barbecue after-party from 5pm-7pm. Register on barretstown.org Crumlin Car Raffl e The Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin is looking for people to help sell its car raffl e tickets. The prize is a brand new Ford Focus and tickets are €3 each, with 32 tickets in each book. If you sell them all, you’ll be entered into a special seller’s prize draw, where you could win €500. The closing date for this year’s raffl e is October 24 and the draw will take place on October 28. Further info on childrenshealth.ie The nationwide coffee morning aims to raise €2 million for hospice services. Funds raised locally stay local and go back into each hospice service, paying for medical and general staff, palliative care beds, home care visits, specialist equipment and new hospice builds. Register on hospicecoffeemorning.ie Coffee Morning Social for Hospice on September 21, or on a date that suits you. You can register to host a coffee morning to support your local hospice, and if you can’t host or The Domino’s Amazing Race for by serious illness. The event takes Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning Social for Hospice 91 WW17 Lend a Hand SC2CCNORASFINAL.indd 3 09/08/2023 12:09

QUICK FIRE 92 WOMANSWAY.IE By Andrea Smith Every year, Dutch violinist and conductor André Rieu performs his summer concert series in Maastricht. This year’s summer concert, Love Is All Around, will be shown exclusively in cinemas worldwide on August 26 and 27. André Rieu - What are your favourite song lyrics of all time? ‘The hills are alive with the sound of music,’ sung by Julie Andrews, with whom I fell in love when I saw The Sound of Music for the first time. What’s your drink of choice? Water. I don’t drink alcohol. Sometimes, on a hot summer day, I’ll have an alcohol-free beer. Who is your favourite solo artist? Bruce Springsteen. Have you ever seen this man performing? We share our age, but his energy is something I envy a little bit. I’ve been a huge fan of his music ever since he released Dancing in the Dark from Born In The USA. What’s the best thing to have happened to you recently? In July, we gave 12 open-air concerts for over 150,000 people in my hometown, Maastricht. The fans came from all over the world. It made us all so happy. What makes you laugh? Fun videos of my grandchildren. What inspires you? Music, in the first place. And I love to be in our beautiful garden, with the orangerie and the koi pond. What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received? An Australian newspaper once wrote: “Rieu is not just for an evening – he is for life.” That made me very proud. I also receive many lovely letters from fans. If you could choose somewhere else to live, where would it be? Tuscany. Somewhere near Cortona, where we gave wonderful concerts. What’s an important lesson to learn in life? Follow your passion and find a wonderful partner, with whom you can share everything in life. Is there anything you wish you were really good at, but aren't? Laying electric cables. What would you never leave home without? My iPhone. What’s your favourite dessert? Limburgse vlaai, which is a cake with fruit and whipped cream. What was your last night out? After the last Maastricht concert, we had a big party with all of the artists. Who is the most famous person in your phone contacts? Sir Anthony Hopkins. What is it about Irish audiences that makes performing here special? Irish audiences belong to the most musical ones worldwide, that’s really true. Not only in the concert halls we play, but also on every corner in every street - you feel that the Irish have musical blood in their veins. What was your worst subject at school? Gymnastics. How do you relax? By watching series, playing Sudoku, baking or cooking for friends. You're going out for brunch. What are you having? Fun with nice friends. When did you discover the power of music? My father used to be a conductor, and while he moved his baton towards every possible direction, the bows of the violinists moved together like one. I was gobsmacked. Later on, I also felt the magical powers of the 3/4 rhythm of the waltz, when the men and women in the audience began to move. Baffled again. What is it like working with your family? I know that I can trust my wife Marjorie and my son Pierre, as they belong to my small family – just like my oldest son Marc, our daughters-in-law and, of course, our fantastic grandchildren. They are very dear to me and I cherish a lot of love for them. Who was your first celebrity crush? Julie Andrews. She is so beautiful and has such a lovely voice. I’m still hoping to meet her one day. What won't you be doing in ten years’ time? I don’t know. I hope to go on making music for many years. I wouldn’t be able to live one single day without it. WW André Rieu’s 2023 Maastricht Concert, Love is All Around, is in cinemas nationwide on August 26 and 27. Tickets on sale from andreincinemas.com Strings to his bow 92 WW17 Quick Fire - AndreÌ� Rieu KOT2CCAMASFINAL.indd 2 03/08/2023 16:13

LIFESTYLE WOMANSWAY.IE 93 WE TRIED... had my fair share of poking and prodding throughout my life and have never batted an eyelid. It was more the idea of needles going into my face that was slightly offputting. This however was painless. I did feel the ones around the top of my lip ever so slightly. As much as I tried not to, I kept thinking about how much I must look like Pinhead from those naff '80s Hellraiser movies as I lay on the bed. MIDWAY THROUGH Next, Amanda turned on the celluma anti-ageing light therapy, which sat over my face as though I were in a little tunnel. She covered my eyes, and the bright, warm soothing light started its work. She popped on a meditation track, and I blissfully lay there while the best of eastern and western treatments did their thing on my very tired skin. The time whizzed by, and she removed the needles. Next, she used some Irish made Holos products on my skin and popped on a sheet mask. What made the sheet mask different was that it was hooked up to a microcurrent. Again, this was not painful at all. I felt the smallest of tingles only occasionally. END RESULT Amanda ended things with a dreamy gua sha treatment, and when I looked in the mirror, my skin was dewy and really fresh-looking. Plus, with minimally invasive techniques, there was no down time or any specifi c aftercare required. WW For more information on treatments visit amandanordell.com WHAT? The synergy acupuncture facial by Amanda Nordell is a fusion of east meets west. It combines acupuncture, with anti-ageing light therapy, a microcurrent treatment, and ends with Chinese cupping therapy. The combination of approaches was something that really interested me and while I’d had acupuncture on my knee for a sports injury, I’d never had the tiny needles stuck into my face. I won’t lie, I was a little nervous, but the intrepid reporter that I am, I decided to woman up and give it a try. WHY? The fusion approach gives you the best of both worlds. The acupuncture needles stimulate the skin cells turnover, which triggers the production of collagen and elastin. Light therapy increases blood circulation, helping to bring more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and cells. The specialised microcurrent treatment mirrors the body’s own electrical output by emitting very similar low-voltage electrical currents, while the gua sha clears and boosts the lymphatic system. STARTING OUT After a brief chat with Amanda about my skin history and concerns, I popped up on the bed and she began by inserting some needles on pressure points on my ankles and hands. She had a great relaxed way of doing this and I didn’t feel a thing. It’s not that I’m afraid of needles, like most women I’ve We’re all about self-care at Woman’s Way. In this issue, Deputy Editor Niamh O’Reilly tries a synergy acupuncture facial. Synergy Acupuncture Facial 93 WW16 We Tried SC2CCNORASFINAL.indd 3 08/08/2023 16:17

OPINION 94 WOMANSWAY.IE By Grumpy Old Woman WHY is this a thing? ROAD-HOGGING CYCLISTS I t really unnerves me when cyclists swarm around me at traffi c lights in the city centre. They weave in and out as they barge their way to the front of the line of traffi c, rendering me terrifi ed of accidentally tipping them. If they’re a law unto themselves in cities, cyclists are also the bane of my life further out. My heart sinks when I come across a group of them cycling two abreast out in the suburbs or on a country lane. I usually get stuck behind them for miles because it’s too risky to overtake them and you never know how many of them are in the cavalcade. By the time I pass them, I'm stressed and running late. Even worse is encountering families on bikes, a phenomenon that exploded during the pandemic. When I see cyclists ahead of me on the road pulling their children in trailers behind them, I immediately panic. The children seem so small and vulnerable to me as I drive up behind them in my giant metal car. I know the parents who use them won’t agree, but I’m always petrifi ed that the trailer will somehow detach and I’ll run over the kids. Or else somebody driving behind will crash into me and shunt me into the trailer. Or the kids will somehow jump out and land under my wheels. The scary possibilities are endless. Cargo bikes are almost as bad, although at least the children are carried in the front, which seems a little safer to me. Nor am I a fan of longtail cargo bikes, which have a long rear carrier where child seats can be installed. If the bikes transporting children are safely corralled in separate bike lanes, it makes me feel better. The problem is that I don't think these lanes work as well as everyone hoped. I don’t feel enough thought has gone into planning them, as many roads are unsuited to being carved up to accommodate separate lanes. I live in the suburbs of Dublin, and some cycle lanes around me are separated from the rest of the road by metal bollards to protect the cyclists. This leaves the rest of us with only a very narrow strip of road, which makes it nerve-wracking driving on them. You have to drive very close to the bollards to avoid crossing the median line into the other side of the road, which can be a pretty hairy experience in heavy traffi c. Dedicated cycle lanes are defi nitely a good idea when the road is wide enough to accommodate them. Anything that encourages cycling is obviously a positive step, because bikes don't release harmful emissions to pollute the atmosphere or carbon dioxide to contribute to climate change. The message that cycling a bike is great for the environment has been received loud and clear by now, and we also know it’s really benefi cial for the rider’s physical and mental health. Alas, another thing it’s great for is fuelling my road rage, which admittedly, is usually simmering close to the surface anyway. Between kamikaze cyclists, vulnerable children, treacherous bollards and road-hogging cavalcades, is it any wonder I’m struggling to see the attraction of life on two wheels? WW 94 WW17 Why Is This A Thing SC2CCNORASFINAL.indd 2 08/08/2023 16:18

WOMANSWAY.IE 95 ROUTINE READY IN OUR NEXT BUMPER ISSUE It might be the last of the summer vibes, but we’re leaning into that feeling of getting ourselves into a brand-new routine, whilst also crossing our fi ngers for an Indian summer. In the next issue, we fi nd out why we all secretly crave a bit of habit, as the intrepid WW crew share why we love getting routine ready and what new habits we are taking up for the season ahead. In beauty ,we fi nd out how to protect that pout with the latest in luscious lip oils. Plus, we discover why and how we should be resetting our wardrobe at this time of year. We also bring you a special backstage sneak peek at Dirty Dancing the musical, and we may or may not have carried a watermelon while we were at it. You won’t want to miss it. STYLE FAVES We dive into another fabulous Irish woman’s wardrobe in our popular new series, which lifts the lid on what middle-aged women are actually wearing and why. READY, SET, GO Everything you need to get yourself ready to face the new season, form some healthy new habits and fi nd your rhythm with a new routine. WOMAN’S WAY AND BEKO MUM OF THE YEAR FINALIST We chat to the fascinating and feisty 50-yearold Irish fi lmmaker who proves it’s never too late to start following your dreams. HARVEST TIME You spent weeks nurturing and growing your home crop, now fi nd out how to protect and preserve your precious GIY harvest, no matter how big or small. PSORIASIS AWARENESS The chronic skin condition has been in the spotlight in recent years thanks to the likes of Kim Kardashian sharing her experiences of it. We look at the symptoms, the causes and the treatments. PLUS The latest movie and book reviews, knitting, mouthwatering recipes, amazing competitions and so much more… HITTING THE NEWS STANDS ON AUGUST 28 95 WW17 Next Issue KOT2CCNORASFINAL.indd 3 09/08/2023 15:00

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