Family Life

F MILY YLife HOW TO HONE HEALTHY HABITS

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STYLE UPDATES FOR YOU & YOUR HOME, LOCKDOWN BABY TALES, AUTUMN BREAKS... and much more!

MUM & DAUGHTER IN THE BUSINESS OF SAVING LIVES

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 3

Contents

4 Meet the mum and daughter working to save lives

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6 First baby, first book for DJ Rigsy

24-26 How to hone healthy habits

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27-33 Health and wellbeing

8 Mixed feelings for families parting from class of 2020

Autumn tidings

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10-17 Home in focus, tips & trends 18-21 Fashion: Looks to love in this year of the dress 22-23 Face forward – make-up goes gothic

Time for new beginnings

he crispness in the air adds to the fresh new term feeling with the children (hopefully) settled into a school routine again and older kids heading off to uni, many for the first time. It’s been the strangest of years for many families, with school halted, exams ditched and the ensuing chaos and even now the uncertainty is continuing. We meet some families who are saying goodbye to the class of 2020 and wondering what university life will bring, with many courses continuing online.

It’s tough for those parents left with an empty nest but there’s reassurance too, that they’ve got their children to this stage and can now watch them begin to make their own way in the world.

We also meet some first time mums who had the peculiar experiences of giving birth during lockdown. While there were many lows – especially the lack of contact with dad – once home it became a precious time when they could bond and get used to being a new family, without the usual busyness of visits.

Sadly, September is one month when there’s much focus on mental illness and our lead story is about Sarah Quigg and her mum Jayne who have been so struck by the increase in people losing their lives, they’ve started up a business to spur people into exercising for the good of their mental

and physical health. All the profits will be given to charities across the UK. They also want to build a supportive community, so fewer people feel isolated and alone. We also speak to Wendy Torrens, who has tips for helping people of all ages, including children, achieve a better sense of wellbeing.

With the easing of restrictions, the opportunity to get away for a few days has been most welcome and with midterm around the corner, there’s no time to lose in planning your next break. Will it be the Causeway Coast? Donegal or Sligo, Fermanagh or Dublin? With hotels adhering to strict hygiene measures, you can feel safe away from home.

Speaking of homes, all those frustrated holidaymakers, forced to stay put this year, have been ploughing their spending money into moving house or making some longed for home improvements. We have a look at some of the trends that are set to stay.

There’s hardly an area of life the pandemic hasn’t affected – even fashion is about being adaptable for everything from zoom work meetings to the school run.

One constant in these changing times is the need for community; as the days shorten, let’s remember to look out for each other, especially anyone who may be feeling isolated or lonely. Stay safe, everyone.

34-39 New arrivals: The highs and lows of having a lockdown baby 40-51 Autumn breaks: where are you going to go?

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52 9 ways to add fun to the season’s days

54 Tips for getting the best out of your garden

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20 Published by Belfast Telegraph Clarendon House, Clarendon Dock, Belfast, BT1 3BH

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ADVERTISING Julie Patterson j.patterson@independentmagazinesni. co.uk EDITOR Fiona Rutherford fprutherford@gmail.com DESIGN Susan McClean INM Design Studio, Belfast

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PRINTING INM, Newry

4 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Mumanddaughterdetermined tosavelivestogether Young Bangor woman Sarah Quigg (23) was shocked by a number of sudden deaths this summer and has vowed to try to make a difference.

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ack home in Bangor after a stint in Australia, the self confessed fitness addict came up with an idea that she hopes will improve lives across the UK. She enlisted the help of her mum, Jayne, and together they’ve launched Frequency Fitness, a fitness clothing brand with the profits going to charities which support mental health.

“Our logo is a Beta wave which is a high frequency of the brain which occurs after exercise. We want to stress the importance of physical health for mental wellbeing,” says Sarah.

As well as the online shop, they aim to cultivate personal wellbeing and develop an all-embracing community, a safe place

Jayne and Sarah Quigg

for all comers.

“We’d looked at starting this at the beginning of lockdown,” says Jayne. “We were just going to run it as a socially conscious enterprise, offering support and helping local charities.”

Then came the bombshell of Sarah’s friend Johnny’s death at the age of 27, and they decided to create a completely notfor-profit business with all monies going to five charities across the UK, including the Samaritans.

HAPPIEST PERSON

“Johnny’s death came as a total shock,” says Sarah. “I first met him in Australia before we both returned home to Northern Ireland. Johnny’s smile was infectious and he seemed the happiest person alive. That’s when it really affected me.”

“It’s very hard for people to reach out sometimes,” says Jayne. “The lockdown has shown the feeling of isolation among young people which has really shocked me.

Some of them said they found it very, very

difficult. I distributed free meals to the vulnerable and elderly during the lockdown, but to be honest I never even thought about young people being on their own or how they would feel.

“Frequency Fitness will offer a small range of fitness wear and accessories with 20% of every sale going directly to one of the charities; the other 80% will cover the costs involved so there will be no profit made whatsoever.

“We also want to create a community – the Frequency Fitness Family. Whether people buy our goods or not we want them to come on to our Facebook page and feel that they belong somewhere and that they fit. Even if they just want to go on and have a chat, there will be somebody there, another member of the community that they can bond with.

“I think Covid has really shown the loss of community and an awful lot of people are feeling its devastating effects. We want to be there for them and support them and show them that they’re not really alone.”

She hopes the initiative will help people get through these tough times. “It’s being proactive. The statistics are terrible – one in four people suffer from mental health issues in their life and one person commits suicide every 40 seconds in the developed world.”

We want to be there for them and support them and show them that they’re not really alone POSITIVE OUTLOOK

Jayne and Sarah with some of the supporters who turned out for an information evening in Bangor last week

While the origins of Frequency Fitness are unspeakably sad, its ethos is nothing if not upbeat. “We’re taking a positive approach.

Through our social media pages it’s going to be all positive, with tips for ways to do things and emphasising the benefits of exercise for mental health,” says Sarah.

While the pair have lined up social media influencers to promote the Frequency Fitness clothing range, there will be something for everyone, from gym wear to hoodies and leggings. Sarah says: “Research shows that the majority of people who go to gyms now are over 65 and we want to have clothes that they will feel comfortable in as well.

“We’ll have a blog that will show people how to do armchair aerobics if they’re not able to do a lot of exercise, we’ll show them how to cook healthy meals on a budget,

6 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020 Sarah Quigg and her mum Jayne

we’ll have mindfulness classes, we’ll start walking groups and connect with mums of young children to show them how they can exercise with their child. We’d like to go to community groups and do Ready Steady Cook-offs using ingredients in the average kitchen. Nutritious dishes needn’t cost the earth.

“The clothing is purely a way to make money but our prices are very competitive for high quality clothing.” They’ve taken

care to reduce the carbon footprint with the fabric, factory and packaging company all close together and there will no plastic packaging.

EVENTS

Alongside the shop and community, Frequency Fitness aims to run five events a year, such as Tough Mudder, abseiling, sky diving and pub quizzes and is open to more ideas.

They’re keen to work alongside other people in similar fields and tackle depression, wherever it hits. It was the sudden death of a young mum of two that initially spurred Sarah into action. She said the statistics reflect a marked rise in deaths among women under 25 years. “One of the people we have involved is Laura McGivern who set up Keep Her Fit to support mums through post natal depression. She does online tutorials and demonstrations of exercise so she will be helping mums and tots. It’s important that we get younger people interested in exercise to try and prevent problems in later life. We’re also getting football teams involved as men are three times more likely to commit suicide.”

The business utilises both mother and daughter’s skill-sets with Sarah’s background in digital marketing and nutrition. Jayne is a chef and businesswoman and she’s currently doing a PhD. Life has brought her plenty of experience of mental illness too.

“My dad was diagnosed with manic depression and heart problems in the 1980s. He got electric shock therapy and all sorts of things but when he talked about it back then, people would have felt uncomfortable and left the room. We’ve brought the children up to understand that this is just an illness their grandpa has, just like

his heart disease. Sarah wants to reach out and show other people that it’s acceptable to be open about mental illness.”

They’re launching their first fundraiser on Monday (28th) at crowdfunder.co.uk and Ulster Bank has pledged to match their first £5K. Rather than appealing for donations, they are using reward gifting so people can pre-order some of the range of clothing to help them take the next step.

Sarah says: “The whole point of this was due to the rate of suicide over the course of the pandemic - up to 84 people in the UK alone weekly. It’s hard to understand the depths of mental health if no one feels they can speak up about it. Our plan is to create a sense of community for people within the UK to feel comfortable with talking about mental health and then, in turn, hopefully decrease the suicide statistics and make a real difference.”

✱

For further information follow Frequency Fitness on Facebook, Instagram (@frequencyfitness_) and Twitter (@fit_frequency). The five charities Frequency Fitness will be fundraising for are S.P.O.R.T.S. (Suicide Prevention Offering Recovery Through Sports) in Northern Ireland; YAMS in Scotland; Mind in Wales; Sport in Mind, England and The Samaritans.

FRESHSTARTFORRIGSYWITHFIRST BABY...ANDABOOKONTHEWAY

BY MAUREEN COLEMAN

W

hen broadcaster and DJ David ‘Rigsy’ O’Reilly sat down to pen his debut novel about a 14-yearold girl and her passion for football, he had no plans to draw inspiration for the character from his own angst-ridden teenage years.

“That would be weird; writing a novel from the perspective of a teenage girl,” he laughs. “And yet, as the novel continued, I realised a lot of the stuff I was writing about had actually happened to me.

“I didn’t set out to write the memoirs of a 14-year-old girl; it was by accident rather than design. But halfway through the novel I thought ‘Poor Lottie. This is me’.

I’d lumbered her with my insecurities and anxieties; awkward things that had happened to me during my teenage years. But who else was I going to write about really?”

Lottie The Raven tells the story of a Belfast-based teenage girl who possesses an extraordinary gift for the beautiful game. The book follows her adventures as she navigates life on and off the pitch and though aimed at the 9 – 14 age range, is suitable for anyone who shares a love of football.

The novel, which David wrote at his parent’s Newcastle home over a four-day period in July 2019, sees Lottie juggle school, first love, a bully on her team and a somewhat pushy but well-meaning dad, plus the highs

Lottie the Raven will be published on October 17

and lows of being the star player for her beloved team, the Belfast Ravens.

ART MIRRORING LIFE A massive football fan himself with a particular interest in grassroots football, David co-founded the real-life Belfast Ravens with wife Lisa and currently coaches the teams. The Ravens have two adult teams playing competitive football in the Northern Ireland Women’s Football Association, with a waiting list for new players to sign up. David himself plays for Newtown Forest while Lisa had to take a break from the sport after becoming a new mum. The eponymous Lottie is named after the couple’s baby girl.

Having seen both his sister and good pal and fellow broadcaster Stuart Bailie publish books, David was inspired to pen his own novel. He’d always wanted to write and the Ravens gave him a topic which he knew would get the creative juices flowing. Then last year, a number of events in his life meant he finally found the time to get started.

His 20 year stint on Radio Ulster music show Across The Line came to an end and he left a promotional job at the Limelight club, although he still DJs there.

BACK ON TRACK While their Belfast home was being renovated, David and Lisa, who was pregnant at the time, had to move out.

Back in his family home in the shadow of the Mournes, David suddenly found himself with spare time on his hands, so he sat down and started writing.

“For four days I locked myself away in the front room and kept writing,” says David. “I didn’t stop until the story was finished. It was really a distraction from everything that was going on. To begin with the words were all over the place but then I got myself an editor and took part in a focus group, where I got really encouraging feedback.

After two rewrites, the novel was ready.

“It was the best thing I could’ve done at that moment in my life. I’ve got my daughter now and my career sorted out with my new production company. It feels like I’ve shed my old skin and everything is back on track.”

David ‘Rigsy’ O’Reilly and Lisa Sykes O’Reilly welcoming baby Lottie to the world LOVING PARENTHOOD David is looking forward to sharing the story of the fictional Lottie with his own little Lottie, when she’s old enough to read. In the meantime, he says he and Lisa are loving being new parents and making the most of the quality time spent together that lockdown afforded them.

And though she’s only seven months old, David reckons Lottie is already showing signs of being a footie fan as well.

“When the football is on, Lottie sits with me on the sofa watching it too,” he says. “I’ll have a beer and she’ll just sit there beside me, fascinated by it all. It’s absolute bliss.

“She already has a few football tops, Glentoran, Man United and of course, Belfast Ravens. But I’m not like Lottie’s pushy dad in the book; I won’t force her to like it or influence who she supports. She can make her own decision about that.

“Knowing my luck, though, she’ll turn out to be a Liverpool supporter, just to get one over on her old man.”

✱

‘Lottie the Raven’ by David O’Reilly will be published on October 17 and is available to buy now for £6.99 from www.lottietheraven.com

8 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Mixedfeelingsasfamiliesprepare topartfromtheclassof2020

BY SOPHIE MCLAUGHLIN

As September draws to a close, the newest bunch of students are preparing to start the next big chapter in their lives. For some parents, seeing a child move out of the family home is a wrench; for many there’s satisfaction at having raised young adults, able to embrace their independence. The change has an impact on every member of the family.

Oliver, Clodagh and Anna Hughes

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that they could have never expected but trust Chloe’s judgement about how the virus will impact her new life in Belfast.

They know she will do her best to respect restrictions put in place for her safety and wellbeing.

Catherine says she has Chloe ‘well warned’ to check in with them every day as she has never been away from home for much longer than a week and she expects to see her back every weekend armed with a large load of laundry.

“Chloe is the first to leave home and the house will not be the same without her. It will be hard and very overwhelming to see her leave, but we know she will thrive at university and embrace her independence.”

or the young person making the jump to higher education, starting university can be an exciting yet terrifying experience, trying to find the balance between their newfound independence and missing home comforts, prioritising studies with a whole new social experience and avoiding a diet of beans and toast all week. Added to that, the class of 2020 is starting first year in a global pandemic.

Many universities are having to adapt their teaching methods to adhere to government guidelines and ensure the safety of staff and students with online teaching. Despite the uncertainty surrounding what the first semester will look like and the high possibility that Freshers will be taking place on Zoom, the next generation of academics is enthusiastic about what comes next.

FIRST TO LEAVE Chloe Mitchell (19) has been offered a place to study Physiotherapy at Ulster University in Jordanstown and has not let COVID-19 stop her from embarking on her future career. She’s the first of her siblings to leave home.

“When I received my results, I was delighted despite them coming from the unusual situation of not sitting any exams.

I was glad that all my hard work over the past few years had paid off and it was definitely worth it in the end.”

She has secured accommodation in one of Belfast’s most popular student areas and is ready to make the move from Waterfoot village on the north Antrim coast.

“I would say that my only concern at the moment is the idea of moving away from home for the first time. It will definitely take me some time to get used to living in Belfast as it’s such a different environment from living in a small country village.”

She is eager to get started and is most

Chloe Mitchell and her sister Jane looking forward to connecting with new people in her course, even if classes are only online in semester one.

Chloe currently lives with her mother Catherine, father Mark and siblings, Daniel (13) and Jane (6) who were all thrilled when she achieved A*AA in her A-Levels and was accepted into her course.

“We are very proud of Chloe and are excited about her journey and the path she has chosen,” said Catherine. “She has worked consistently over the years and deserves every opportunity that arises for her.

“I am so glad she has decided to not go overseas though as I don’t know how I would cope without seeing her.”

They acknowledged that moving away during the pandemic is an added stress

EMPTY NEST Another student who will be packing her bags and making the 83-mile journey from Fermanagh to Belfast is Anna Hughes (18).

She has accepted a place at Queen’s University to study Irish and was delighted to receive an unconditional offer for her first-choice course even before she had received her results.

“I am really looking forward to having a change of scenery. Having attended the same school for seven years, even though I loved it and I loved my friends, it will be nice to have that change of pace in a new setting with new people and I am excited to be studying Irish which is what I have always wanted to do.

“I am a bit apprehensive just because of all the uncertainty regarding COVID-19 and I’m just not sure what to expect with online classes versus face-to-face teaching.”

Unlike Chloe, Anna will not be the only member of her family living away from home as her brother Oliver (22) is in his final year of Accounting at Queen’s.

“It will be good having Anna up in Belfast because I’ve been out of the house for

Chloe, Daniel and Jane Mitchell four years now,” he said. “It will be nice to be able to meet up a bit more regularly as I wouldn’t come home that much. I think it will be reassuring for us both to have each other up there.”

Anna will be staying in university halls in her first year and cannot wait to swap the rural setting of Fermanagh for the busy city. While she has some knowledge of the Belfast area, she believes it will take some time to get used to but is ready for the new challenges this year will bring.

After the whole family has spent the last six months together in lockdown, her parents, Paul and Clodagh, will now be going from having a full house to an empty nest for the first time.

Clodagh does have her concerns about sending her children up to areas where the spread of the virus may not be manageable such as on campus, but she is also worried about how the change in teaching may affect them.

“There is the possibility that their courses will be run very differently from what they expected and they may have to come back home which I don’t think for Anna is ideal as she wants to get away and have the full experience from the get-go.”

Although this is new territory for all and it is hard to predict how the 20/21 academic year will pan out, Oliver suggests students should do their best to take it in their stride and appreciate all the opportunities made available to them.

“I think a lot of people come away from university in normal times and wish they had got more involved in everything that is offered, so don’t let this pandemic stop you from enjoying your first year of student life and just make the most of it.”

10 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Cool, calmand reflective Create a sanctuary at home with tranquil, soothing colour combinations, like aqua and beige.

Choose art that adds to the ambiance.

A dash of black adds life to a neutral scheme while abstract designs work in a variety of schemes. Go all out with textures to enhance neutrals too.

Artwork from Desenio, desenio.com

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 11

Hometime...

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t’s open season for home refurbs thanks to this summer’s triple whammy – shut shops, cancelled holidays and extra time indoors. There’s nothing like being confined to the house for focusing the mind on improvements to be made. New research from Checkatrade, the online trade directory, reveals that a third (35%) of people in the UK grew to dislike at least one room in lockdown, with kitchens and bedrooms coming out top.

Over half (53%) of people noticed more things wrong with their home while in lockdown than ever before. Common causes for improvement include a general desire for new décor (40%), a craving for more space (28%), a longing for more storage (27%) and replacing ugly wallpaper (16%).

It’s not just about appearances but also about how space is used. According to Checkatrade, new areas created during the lockdown included

A good seat is essential for long hours working from home. Deluxe High Back Office Chair, Faux Leather Upholstered, Coffee, £149, Cult Furniture, www.cultfurniture.com

Cosy nooks and quiet corners calm the nerves.

All that’s required is a comfy chair, a good reading light and a cuppa. Cranling Articulating Standing Lamp, £322, Pooky, www.pooky.com

Changing your wallpaper? Non-woven wallpaper is easy to work with as the paste is applied to the wall. Stelvio wallpaper, £14.99 per roll, 4MURS UK, www.4murs.co.uk quiet nooks, workstations, home gyms, calm zones, man caves, playrooms and games rooms.

Now with stores open and tradesmen back at work, we’re pouring the money we’ve saved by not shopping or going abroad into doing up our homes. Bangor plumber David Russell says: “There’s a massive demand for new bathrooms at the minute. The supplier I use even has a waiting list for CAD

designs, which is a first.”

Whether it’s creating a home office, installing a new kitchen or bathroom, shopping for a new suite or changing the layout of the home, demand is high. While some are knocking through to create an open plan space, others are deciding that they prefer some division between living areas

after all. Rather than reinstating walls, that tends to mean adding decorative screens or shelving to add shape to the space.

Whether you are taking on a major project or simply updating your finishing touches, don’t delay or you may find yourself hanging on until Christmas as demand continues to grow.

12 | Family Life

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

The KitchenAid Artisan Power Plus Blender, RRP £699 with a ten year warranty, is available from leading appliance dealers nationwide

Sleek,stylish kitchenswith NordMende’s Inlinecollection

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he new inline collection from NordMende features their latest appliances including a built-in oven, combination oven and warming drawer. They’re super stylish and when fitted all together they’ll provide a superior cooking experience. NordMende cooking appliances come with a reassuring 3 year parts and labour warranty.

NordMende 14cm Integrated Warming Drawer Black Glass + Stainless Steel £349

NordMende Built In Multifunction Pyrolytic Self Cleaning Single Oven £539

NordMende B/I 45cm Combi Microwave & Fan Oven Stainless Steel £569

14 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

STARTWITHA

moodboard

C

reating your own moodboard can be a great way to give yourself that inspiration you need when designing your interior space. Pinterest is a popular place for collating styles and designs you like, although not for making a moodboard.

There are a few online options, although they tend to favour commercial use. For a home decor project, Yorkshire Fabric Shop has introduced a new moodboard function which is easy to use and perfect for helping you plan a new scheme.

Moodboards can help with saving time, designing new ideas and showing you fabric and colour options.

Here’s how to use it:

STEP 1 Visit www.yorkshirefabricshop.com and click on the moodboard box at the top right hand corner of the home page. You can also scroll down to the ‘feature user moodboards’ section, where you will see lots of other inspirational designs.

STEP 2 You can start your own moodboard by registering and clicking on ‘create a moodboard now’. You are given the options to name your moodboard, change the background colour, choose background images to upload or choose images to upload.

to your moodboard page and arrange the images the way you want.

STEP 3 Go to the fabric finder page and select some fabrics you would like to include in your moodboard.

Once you are finished adding fabrics, go

STEP 4 The image options are a great way to compare colours with the fabrics Yorkshire Fabric Shop have on offer.

If you were looking for curtains to match with an armchair for example, then you can upload an image of your armchair and choose some fabrics you think would fit.

When you have completed your moodboard, you can print it or save it to your computer for future reference.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Topartists andrising starsat Gallery1608

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Trudie Mooney

Family Life | 15 Vincent Devine

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ubbed ‘Northern Ireland’s most exciting gallery’, Gallery 1608 in Bushmills is a showcase for a variety of fine Irish Art and bespoke Craft. The Gallery represents many of Ireland’s top artists, both established, and highly-regarded emerging ones. It has, without doubt, the largest collection of artwork under one roof in Northern Ireland, and arguably across the whole island.

Gallery 1608 exhibits include a varied range of traditional and contemporary work from painters, sculptors, glass makers, ceramicists and jewellers. All stock is

William Mullan

carefully selected for quality and to suit all budgets. Works are constantly changing, so no visit will disappoint collectors looking for unique pieces to add to their collection. As well as giving an opportunity to purchase art and craftwork at competitive prices, the Gallery also offers sourcing, valuation and framing services.

A quick look at the website, www.gallery1608.co.uk will confirm the quality of work available. Collectors regularly travel from all over Ireland to visit the gallery as they are confident of finding something to satisfy their tastes.

An additional benefit is the availability of interest free payment plans over 10 months, where the piece can be taken

home immediately. The Gallery also has its own in-house facilities to make that purchase easier.

We have put in place measures to ensure visitors feel safe during these uncertain times and for those who are particularly wary, one to one evening appointments can be arranged. Additionally, a new user friendly website has been launched which allows clients to purchase on line and we will take care of the shipping right to your front door.

If you are looking for that unique Christmas gift, we have pieces to suit all budgets and for that hard to please person, gift vouchers are available.

We look forward to welcoming both

Jackie Edwards new customers and existing clients back to Gallery 1608. Don’t be put off by past experiences of visiting stuffy galleries. We have a very welcoming and relaxed staff to help and talk you through your purchase (if that’s what you want).

The Gallery 1608 team.

16 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Add layers of luxury in rich velvets and wool. (top to bottom) Cosy Fleece throw 150x200 £45. Maximus Fleece throw 150x210 £25, Chevron Throw 130x170 £35, Herringbone Fau Mohair Throw 130x180 £35, Harvey Norman

Hibernate instyle Star Rug in Ivory and Slate Grey, £325, Baa Stool, www.baastool.co.uk

It will soon be time to hunker down for winter. Enjoy hibernating with chunky and charming knits and faux fur.

Rattan, wood and hessian up the natural ante while plants make the perfect finishing touch in any part of the house.

This whimsical but warm ottoman is from the quirky BaaStool co.

Leanne-Joan Ottoman in Ivory

Create an atmospheric autumnal mantelpiece – Gold Mercury LED Glass Pumpkin, £29.99; Mottled Silver Pumpkin Battery Light, £24.99; TruGlow Mottled Orange LED Autumn Candle Trio, £26.99; 4 TruGlow Remote Control LED Taper Candles, £24.99; 4 TruGlow LED Votive Candles, £14.99, Lights4fun: www.lights4fun.co.uk

FALLING FOR AUTUMN Draw inspiration from the natural beauty around us and bring autumn home.

Shades of ochre, red, orange, green and brown are soothing and reflect a healthy interest in reconnecting to nature and adopting a more sustainable lifestyle.

Hardwearing fabrics like leather and velvet will reward you with years of luxurious lustre.

Rather than winter white or pale grey, choose warmer neutrals like cream or light brown.

Use throws to bring new colour accents into a tired scheme or texture in a neutral space.

You may love to display the family snaps and favourite books and trinkets on shelves but who doesn’t love a sideboard for stashing all the ‘stuff ’ out of sight. It cuts down on the dusting too.

Orange & Ochre Maple Leaf Autumn Wreath, 61cm, £38.99, Lights4fun.co.uk

From the Sinfonia Collection: blind in Andante Menta; curtains in Mastro Menta; cushions in Tutti Quartz, Maestro Menta, Dolce Menta and Andante Menta; throw Dolce Menta, from £24 per metre, ILIV, www.i-liv.co.uk

GIVINGYOUR WINDOWSAWAVE?

✱ The Botanist No. 6 is part of a new collection of six, largescale limited edition prints

by Moira Frith, taken from the artist’s original watercolours, unframed £245, framed £355, The Shop Floor Project, theshopfloorproject.com

When it comes to dressing our windows, there’s a lot to think about. From the basics of whether you prefer blinds or curtains, to the finer details such as linings, headings and fabric choices, there’s a lot to consider and each one brings its own benefits and drawbacks. Debbie Leigh, Design Manager at ILIV, offers advice from both a practical and style point of view.

One of the first decisions is between cur-

tains or blinds. “If you have the room either side of your window, then full-length curtains will create a cosy, comfortable and inviting feel,” says Debbie. “Not only do they provide complete privacy, choosing a quality, thick fabric will also provide an extra layer of insulation, as well as creating a sense of luxury.

For more compact rooms and windows, roman blinds are a good option as they take up less space and can be more cost-effective, as they

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 17

Intheframe

Art is having a moment. Rather than buy a mass-produced picture, why not support one of the very many talented artists and makers in Northern Ireland? Visit a

gallery, check out craftni.org for makers or keep an eye out for local art for sale in University art shows, print workshops and even coffee shops.

Nicola Nemec at Gallery 1608, Portrush

Wave Header Curtains Tutti Rosequartz from £27 per metre, www.i-liv.co.uk

use less fabric. They are also flexible, allowing varying amounts of light into the room.”

If opting for curtains, Debbie advises: “Good quality, lined curtains are suitable all year-round, offering temperature control and privacy. Black out and thermal linings are great for bedroom curtains as they help to keep the room warm, increase energy efficiency and block out unwanted light.”

In terms of the overall look you wish to achieve, curtains can be cleverly used to create a sense of space. “Hanging panels higher than the window will add to the sense of height in a room. Measure from the top of the window, plus the added inches of height where the curtains will hang from, to the floor.

For a more traditional look, try having the curtain slightly puddled on the floor by adding another two or three inches to your length.

For those who prefer a contemporary look, having the panel fall flush with the floor is a popular option.”

When it comes to curtain headings, this is often a matter of personal taste. “The easiest curtains to hang are eyelets as it’s as simple as hanging them on a pole. Slightly more complicated, but increasingly popular, are the wave-header. Wave header curtains create wave like folds of fabric that appear to float below the track or pole,” says Debbie.

If you are restricted for space or have a radiator under your window, then Roller or Roman Blinds are a popular choice. Although significantly more fabric is required for a Roman blind, it will give a more sophisticated look, making it a favoured option for living rooms and bedrooms.

SWITCH ONTO LIGHTING

✱

Short days mean longer periods with the lights on. Rather than purely functional, lighting can make a big difference to the look and feel of a room. Make a style statement with a beautiful pendant and complete the look with lower level lighting.

Lighting designer Maggie B says: “You can go into a room and notice when the lighting is bad but not necessarily when it’s good. I would have recessed lights, wall lights and table lamps so you have three different kinds of lighting which change the mood of the room. It’s an important detail as you can have the most beautifully dressed room in the world but if your lighting isn’t right, it won’t look its best.”

Supplement your light fixtures with fairy lights and candles for an even more welcoming interior.

Opt for LED candles if there are toddlers about.

Pendant Light from Arches Lighting Centre, www. archeslightingcentre. co.uk

Thenewneutrals Trends come and go but some dominate for several years, as grey has done. It’s all about earthy browns and the once maligned beige now. This light brown adds warmth to blues and depth to pinks. It’s versatile and calming and works well with most colours. Be careful when mixing beiges as they can have pink, yellow or green undertones which can cause them to jar. Check out Canadian colour specialist Maria Killam’s blogs for how to use beiges, see mariakillam.com

Dulux’s Colour of the Year for 2021 is Brave Ground, an earthy shade of beige

The key to creating an inviting neutral scheme is a variety of textures and shapes. If it seems bland and boring, try adding black and/or metal accents.

Vox Ribbon Low Bookcase, £545, Cuckooland

18 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020 Cream, madam? The new cream and beige neutrals from River Island

Lookstolove

S

pruce up your wardrobe with some of the key looks for AW20. Easy to wear dresses and separates make creating a capsule collection a breeze this season.

Jazz up a top and skirt in sophisticated neutrals with an animal print scarf or a plaid jacket, soften an on trend utility jacket and lug boots with a floaty tiered skirt.

Colourwise, the season is reflected in natural, earthy tones of cream, brown, tan, khaki and berry while soft pale pinks bring romance to a gloomy day. Blues are huge, whether in one of the many varieties of ditsy prints, as a pop of colour with the new cream and beige neutrals or the denim staple.

If you’re falling out of love with your skinny jeans, the shops are packed with looser, easy to wear cuts, from the high waisted mum jean to flattering boot cuts. They look great teamed with a blouse with statement sleeves.

Leather and its PU copycat are classy and comfortable in trendy black or a bright colour. Layer up with a kimono or long gilet for a streamlined outline that hides those covid pounds. And for heading out on colder days, there are coats to suit every taste, age and budget, from cosy teddy coats to faux fur jackets to the classic belted trench.

Pleather meets print, River Island

Beige and blue are a marriage made in heaven, from Next

Tan PU Midi Skirt, £24, Dorothy Perkins

Tan Suedette Biker Jacket, £42, Dorothy Perkins

Alphabet Nude Suede, £55, Office

Back to earth Wrap up this autumn in earthy browns, tans and creams

Charlotte Tan Cross Body Bag, £25, Accessorize

Snakeskin bag, £28, Oasis

Blush Sequin Palazzo Trousers, £30, Dorothy Perkins

Leopard Face Covering, £5, Accessorize

Feeling

feline

Blush Pink Satin Halter Top, £19.99, TopShop

Leopard print is one of the season’s stars

Pink And Black Spot Knitted Jumper, £35.99, TopShop

Blushing

We’re in the pink with pale blush shades.

Black Plisse Frill Waist Trousers, £29, Miss Selfridge

Black Leopard Print Midi Dress, £38, Dorothy Perkins

Leopard Print Scarf from M&S

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 19 Animal Jacquard Tunic £35, Joe Browns

The year of the dress

Despite the lack of opportunities for going out, we’re rocking our frocks this year and the more feminine the better with tiers, mesh and puff sleeves taking the look back to more romantic times. Florals, polka dots and animal patterns have us all in a flounce. Team them with sneakers, heels, ankle or slouchy boots to step out in style for any occasion.

YARN yearnings

Next’s autumn look Olive PU Dress, £65, Monsoon

Black Skater Dress, £20, and Ankle Boots, Matalan

Black Colour Block Cape, £35, Wallis

Grey Snake Print Gassato Swing Cardigan, £155, Pure Collection

Knitwear essentials range from light as air cashmere cardies to chunkier versions, perfect for a coatless autumn walk. Go for a bodycon longline jumper or dress for an elegant silhouette or relax in outsize, baggy loungewear. Cover up when you pop to the shops in one of this season’s capes.

Chunky Knit from Miss Selfridge’s AW Collection Animal Jacquard Tunic £35, Joe Browns

Denim Shirt Dress from M&S Black Denim Shirt Dress, New Look

Blue Ditsy Print Button Mini Skater Dress, £32, Dorothy Perkins

Red Wine Scallop Funnel Neck Knitted Jumper, £19, Miss Selfridge

Oatmeal Ellie Heritage Bardot Knitted Jumper With Recycled Polyester, £35, Miss Selfridge

20 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020 Black Leather Lace-Up Biker Boots, £34.99, Deichmann

Astronaut Ankle Boot, Black, £89, Office

Footfirst

Clunky or classy, make your footwear work for you this season

Black Ankle Boot, M&S Simply Sensational Buckle Boots, £60, Joe Browns

Neutral Heeled Ankle Boot, £49, Wallis A Touch Of Boho Suede Boots, £80, Joe Browns The Latest Lace Back Boots, £60, Joe Browns STATEMENT: The incredible Quincy Snake Print on Leather Boot, £476, Chie Mihara Ponte Black Dogtooth Biker Jacket, £160, Pure Collection

Faux Fur Collar Jacket, £90, Joe Browns

Berry PVC Biker Jacket, £55, M&Co.

Very berry

Rust Floral Embroidered Kimono, £25.99, New Look

CHECKOUT

Take your pick of heritage patterns, from tartan to dogtooth check.

Heavenly Feet Chloe Womens Burgundy Boots, £54.99, ShoeZone

Cheryl PU Skirt, £60, Monsoon

Dogtooth Trainer, £14, Matalan

Monochrome Rucksack, £14, Matalan

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 21 Elmo Paisley Shirt Dress, £70, Eddie EmbWaistcoat, £75, Monsoon

Paisley Midaxi Dress £25, Gold Drop Earrings £6 from George

YESto PAISLEY

Heritage checks are big but bringing up the rear is another trad big hitter, paisley, bringing a pinch of pizzazz to any outfit.

Paisley Midi Dress, £18, Faux Fur Gilet, £22.50, Matalan

Gold Hoops Earrings £4, Brown Teddy Coat £38, Hoody £10, Trousers £16 from George

Underwraps

Outer layers this season are so cosy, it’s almost as good as bringing a blanket on the commute

Belted Trenchcoat from M&S

Wrap Crombie, £30, Primark

Burgundy Faux Fur Coat, £39.99, New Look

Teddy Coat, £85, Oasis

22 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Faceforward Maeve Richardson checks out the A/W 2020 beauty trends

Winged Eyeliner Valentino, Miu Miu and Marc Jacobs were among the many designers flaunting black liner worn in various degrees of extremity on runways, from classic feline arcs to smudged cool girl gothic and arty graphic angles.

Scarlet Lips There’s nothing quite like a bold red lip to exude confidence or take you from day to night in five seconds flat. Givenchy, Oscar de la Renta and Jason Wu styled their models with crimson pouts in finishes that ranged from high-gloss to moody matte. No matter your skin tone or make up style, everyone should spend some time finding their signature shade and finish, it’s a real game-changer.

Gilded Lids Golden metallic eyes are another nod to the changing seasons and Tom Ford’s intense copper-gold eye shadow wowed while other designers including Erdem embraced more abstract glittering metallic foil around the eyes.

Gothic Grunge Gothic influences were seen on the catwalks of Anna Sui, Rodarte, Chocheng and Max Mara with models rocking vampy dark lips which hint at berry stains and decadent feasts.

The most wearable interpretations include oxblood lipsticks, which speak to the season beautifully.

90s grunge, Max Mara, Photographed by Corey Tenold

Colour Pops Uncharacteristic pops of bright colour and pretty pastels, usually reserved for the spring shows, offer a welcome respite from the usual winter palette. Eyes more so than lips appear central to this trend, and include fluorescent mascara, bright eyelids and powerful pigments.

GET THE LOOK

Terracotta Tan, £28, Nudestix This versatile product creates a warm bronze glow across eyes, cheeks or lips.

Curated in conjunction with celebrity makeup artist, Jose Corella, who is known for his dewy, golden, and effortlessly chic looks, this range is made with innovative Korean formulas, and boasts a lightweight, yet luxurious feel.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 23

Melted Matte Lipstick in Drop Dead Red, £19, Too Faced Too Faced have released 13 new shades of their beloved Melted Matte formula, which glides over lips like a gloss but dries to an ultra-matte opaque finish. Infused with a no-sting plumping filler, Melted Matte ensures colour always looks rich and full.

Super Pomade, £18, KVD KVD Vegan Beauty Super Pomade, is a 3-in-1 vegan eyeliner, brow and shadow and comes in 17 shades from natural tones to vibrant colour pops. This weightless waterproof pomade delivers high-impact, budge-proof, smudge-proof, looks that don’t come off until you want them to.

My Toy Boy Mascara, £24, Diego dalla Palma This intense black formula is ultravolumising, lengthening and lasts 24 hours while promoting the growth of natural lashes - what more could a girl ask for?

Blooming Edition Secret Garden Palette in Spring Bouquet, £45, Dear Dahlia Blooming Edition Secret Garden Palette in Tea Party, £45, Dear Dahlia Carefully curated to showcase a unique collection of vibrant and natural shades, with a balance of complementary warm and cool undertones.

These palettes are utterly dreamy and work beautifully no matter the season.

Goth Punk, Anna Sui, Photographed by Corey Tenold Jewel Pots, £24.00, Charlotte Tilbury Create luminous, smooth, youthful-looking bright eyes with this cream-to-sheen copper-red eyeshadow formula which can be built up in seconds from an easy, flattering day look to a more intense and bedazzling smoky eye.

Perfect Matt Lip Femme Fatale £15.95, IsaDora An intense satin matt finish that doesn’t dry out your lips at an affordable price, what’s not to love?

24 | Family Life

This has been a prime year for seeing families out cycling or walking together; beaches which would normally be deserted by all but dedicated dog walkers are buzzing with paddle boarders and swimmers.

On sunny days one could have been forgiven for thinking it was the 1950s.

For many families, however, the end of the lockdown didn’t bring a collective rush outside to take the air.

Many teens in particular had already adopted a new routine, sleeping most of the day, staying awake most of the night and munching through their own version of 5 a day: crisps, chocolate, sweets, biscuits and chips.

The return to school couldn’t come soon enough for frustrated parents.

And while the government has been pushing an anti-obesity agenda, for many families, it’s tricky terrain as making a young person self-conscious about their weight may risk triggering an eating disorder. Dr Wendy Torrens gives some of her tips to help us all achieve a healthier lifestyle.

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

HOWTOHONE HEALTHYHABITS

Kids don’t even notice they’re exercising if it’s fun Photo: Alexander Dummer, Pexels

What advice would you give parents who might be worried about their children’s lifestyle?

Every person is different and how you would approach this issue depends on a number of things, but it all comes down to taking a holistic approach towards tackling the problem – you need to look at the bigger picture. Don’t just look at their physical activity levels or eating habits on their own, look at these together with their current level of socialisation and their emotional wellbeing.

One of the best things to do is lead by example. Go out and do more fun activities with the young person. For example, after school you could arrange to meet them to do something together – in

If you could take a pill that would protect you against breast cancer, type 2 diabetes or coronory heart disease you would take it wouldn’t you?

That pill is physical activity.

the process you’re getting them to walk a bit more. Get them to help you digging in the garden or when you go to the shops, park farther away, so they do a bit more walking.

Little things like this all the time build up their activity levels which helps both them and you, physically, emotionally and socially. It can be hard sometimes as teenagers don’t want to get involved but the key is not to force them, but to treat it as something you’re just doing, no big discussion as to why.

Another suggestion would be to include

them in the whole meal planning and making process, which also includes shopping for those meals. Every now and then check the labels and casually look for healthier alternatives, but make sure that you don’t shop when you are hungry as that’s when you might be tempted to buy a few more of the unhealthy snack foods, which tend not to last too long in our cupboards. If you don’t have it, you’re not tempted.

With lockdown most people were quite restricted in who they could spend their time with and as a result, I feel

many of us realise the importance of having a good social network of friends, family or colleagues. Definitely encourage your teen to spend more time with their friends outside, getting Vitamin D and less time inside on their screens!

Feeling that you belong is so important.

Let’s all help to look out for each other; not only do you bring happiness into the life of someone else, but research has found that by helping others, you also feel better yourself. Check out the free ‘Happiness Lab’ podcast by Dr Laurie Santos, www.happinesslab.fm

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 25 Work those arms, mum!

Photo: Katie E, Pexels

Make housework count towards your activity levels Photo: Gustav Fring, Pexels

Prep food together Photo: August De Richelieu, Pexels

What’s your advice generally on having a healthy diet for all the family?

I’m not a nutritionist so for specific information you need to either speak to your GP or get a referral to chat to a dietitian or nutritionist. However, previously it was believed you should eat five times a day, or graze throughout the day, but some current thinking suggests having a small period of fasting for either a few hours a day, or one day a week can help regulate the body.

Everyone is different, one size does not fit all, so this is something you must discuss with your GP, especially if you have any medical conditions.

Unfortunately, you find now that some people are eating a lot of convenience foods and instead of a balanced diet, they’ve basically inverted the food pyramid and all the stuff they shouldn’t be eating is the widest part of the pyramid. In that case, it helps to get organised, to plan meals so that you aren’t tempted to grab something from the garage or order take away food regularly when you are hungry.

These convenience foods are often high in saturated fat, sugar and salt.

If you plan your meals, and perhaps make batches of food at the weekend and freeze them, you are in more control of what you are eating. Always make sure

you have healthy staple ingredients in the house, to make a quick healthy meal if you need to. Try to eat a balanced, wide variety of food, including all of the food groups, but not too much of anything. A mix of fresh fruit and vegetables every day, complex carbohydrate such as brown rice, potatoes and some form of protein, such as soya, eggs, cheese, nuts or meat and drink plenty of water. Being organised not only saves, time and money, it also helps to keep your family healthy.

it’s being active throughout the day.

Carrying out at least 10 minutes of physical activity on at least three occasions each day, can make a huge difference to your health. If possible try to do something you enjoy, at a level that increases your heart rate – that How important do you think a means you can still have a breathhealthy lifestyle is? less conversation with someone, If you could take a pill that would or you can still count from 1 protect you against getting to 10. Remember, doing not non-communicable diseases so enjoyable stuff too, like such as certain types of canhousework is considered cer like breast cancer, or physical activity – so turn type 2 diabetes, obesity, up your music and get or coronary heart disstuck into tidying up ease you would take and get your heart it, wouldn’t you? rate up.

Well that pill is If you’re in a actually physical job that’s active activity and – great, but it’s not going if not you out and can conrunning sciously 10 miles The healthy food pyramid

incorporate more movement into your working day. For example, if you take a bus to work, think about getting off a few stops earlier and walking a bit further to work, or at lunchtime take a walk with a colleague. It’s really not just about going to the gym - everything counts.

Kicking a ball out the back for 10 minutes, going down to the beach and picking up shells or beach glass, things like that. That’s how it adds up. If you say to a child, you need 60 minutes of exercise every day, it just puts them off, whereas if you scoot down to the park on the bike and they have a go on the swings and have a kickabout with a ball it’s not a chore.

Poco-a-poco… little by little, does make a difference!

Chart your progress with a ‘wheel of happiness’.

Cont’d on page 26 

26 | Family Life Cont’d from page 25

INE

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Photo Gregory Pappas on Unsplash

5

5

FUN

10

10

AN DR

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5

CES AN

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10

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GOODNIGHT, SLEEPTIGHT

10

ALT

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10

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hate school or work at the ROM ANC minute as it has E all changed, whereas your hobbies might be near a 10 because you’ve spent time on them during lockdown.

Finally put the date on the page and make a commitment to yourself that you are going to work on one of the low scoring sectors for the next three weeks.

Each week review your score on that sector,

until it improves by at least two points, D AN ILY then move on to anFAM other sector, until you can genuinely feel an improvement in your level of happiness.

Sometimes, we just can’t see the wood for the trees and I find using this tool helps to break things into smaller bits. However, if you’re having a bad day… wait until the next before reviewing!

10

10

Reduce your risk Healthy weight Not drinking alcohol Physical activity Reducing fat in your diet Eat more fruit and veg Breast feed Don’t start smoking or stop if you do

BUS

10

LG

ACTNOW

ONA

C

oronavirus may be the C word on everyone’s lips this year, but cancer hasn’t gone away and Cancer Focus NI is appealing to women to get ‘together again’ and Support Your Girls through its fun autumn fundraising campaign.

The campaign, which is running until the end of October (breast cancer awareness month), also highlights signs of breast cancer and stresses the importance of checking your breasts regularly.

Rosie Forsythe, community fundraising manager, Cancer Focus NI, said: “One in 10 women in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with breast cancer, the most common cancer in women. We know that there is a great need for more support among younger women in our community who have been diagnosed. With the money raised from the girls’ night in events, we plan to provide a unique new six week service that will give women a chance to speak to experts on a wide range of topics such as infertility and sexual relationships, as well as to meet others in a similar situation.

“The young women we want to help are at a stage in their lives where they may be making big life choices, such as marriage and starting a family. A breast cancer diagnosis can dramatically change all their hopes and plans for the future. It is vital we have the best possible support

S PER

How can we improve our sense of wellbeing?

A useful tool to use is the happiness wheel or wheel of life. Start off by drawing a small circle in the centre of a page, now draw another circle around the outside and continue until you have a dartboard type diagram with 10 concentric circles. Then think about how you spend your time and list the things you enjoy. For example, you may include work and family time, friendships, walking the dog, exercise, food and love life as things you enjoy.

Count the number of things you have listed.

Next, divide your diagram, like spokes on a wheel, with a sector for each thing from your list, plus one extra sector just in case you’ve forgotten something.

Label each sector using one thing from your list - friendships, work/school, hobbies, love life, physical activity or whatever you have identified.

Have a genuine think and rate each sector from 1 to 10. A 10 means things couldn’t be better while one means there is definitely room for improvement.

Straight away you identify what areas of your life need some care and attention. You might

E CAL

YSI

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ENT

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Get happy

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

DS

EN FRI

SupportYour Girlswitha fundraiser DJ Rebecca McKinney urges women to examine their breasts every month in place for these women, especially now when there are so many other stresses and difficulties in life because of Covid-19.”

She added: “We have a host of fundraising ideas. Do whatever you and your friends enjoy doing – and ask for a donation to Cancer Focus NI. It could be a girly movie, pamper party, pyjama party, pizza treats or dinner evenings – all within government social distancing guidelines, of course. It’s the perfect reason to have a good time with the girls!

“And don’t forget to share your girls’ night in with us on social media, #SYG, #TogetherAgain.”

Cool FM radio presenter Rebecca McKinney, the charity’s ambassador for the campaign, said: “Personally, I’ve learnt how crucial it is to keep an eye out for the early signs of breast cancer. Women need to examine their breasts regularly to get

to ‘know their normal’. We need to keep an eye out for anything we feel is not quite right – some of the signs include a lump in the breast, puckered skin, thickening, a rash, oozing or crusting.

“Now is the right time for a new campaign to remind women to pay attention to any changes in their breasts, to learn how to spot the signs of breast cancer and to see their doctor straight away if they have any concerns. One tip is to set a monthly reminder on your phone.”

Not sure how to check your breasts or what to look out for? Cancer Focus NI has a short video to explain what you need to look out for on its website and social media channels. You can find out more about the Support Your Girls campaign and the signs and symptoms on the charity’s website, www.cancerfocusni.org/girls.

Worry is the enemy of a good night’s sleep, whether it’s finances, work, family or personal issues that have us tossing and turning. Yet sleep is essential for physical and mental wellbeing. It’s when the brain and body set about healing and renewal and is beneficial for mood, memory and the immune system among many other areas.

With more people than ever finding their sleep routine disrupted this year, it’s worth remembering simple – but easy to ignore – tips for having a solid snooze.

1. SET A ROUTINE

The lockdown and extra long school holiday has thrown many of us out of our normal routine. No commute can easily mean later nights and longer lie-ins. Now that there’s a greater impetus to get up early, it’s time to get back into a regular routine with a set time for going to bed and getting up. This will help you get a better quality sleep.

2. DAYLIGHT SAVING

Make the most of the sunlight. Open the curtains and windows and let the daylight help your body clock keep proper time.

Also, getting outside and exercising regularly eventually leads to beneficial sleep patterns and can combat insomnia.

3. SKIP THAT SUPPER

Tea and biscuits aren’t ideal just before turning in for the night. Experts say you should avoid caffeine after midday as it takes several hours to leave the system while sugar is a no-no at bedtime. Try hot milk or herbal tea and an oatcake if you must end the day with a munch. Try to have your dinner at least four hours before turning in so that your core temperature has time to drop. Dairy products, chicken and nuts all help boost levels of the sleep hormone melatonin.

4. SWITCH OFF

Do yourself a huge favour and avoid looking at any social media or emails in the half hour or so before bedtime as the light stimulates the brain and makes it much harder to settle to sleep.

5. RELAX

Make a point of doing something to help your body and brain unwind, whether taking a hot bath or shower, meditating, reading or practising relaxation techniques.

Don’t get disheartened if you try these and don’t see any improvement at once.

Persevere and over time your body should find its natural wake-sleep rhythm restored.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Family Life | 27

THINKINGIMMUNITY SUPPORT?THINKIRISHSUPER SUPPLEMENTREVIVEACTIVE

I

n the Covid era, supporting our immune system is more important than ever. With lockdown restrictions lifting, schools reopening and cold and flu season approaching, everyday life can leave us feeling exhausted, run down and our

immunity low.

Put your best foot forward this autumn with super supplement Revive Active, which is formulated to provide the most comprehensive blend of vitamins and minerals in one convenient daily sachet.

At the recent Rude Health Magazine Lockdown Awards, Revive Active won Gold in the Best Immune Product category.

Revive Active also took home Best Pharmacy Brand Product of the Year at the 2020 Over the Counter and Retail Pharmacy Awards.

Revive Active is a super supplement that contains 26 active ingredients, contributing to the maintenance of the immune system, heart, energy, fertility, thyroid function, metabolism, skin and more.

The active ingredients in each sachet that contribute to the normal function of the immune system are Zinc, Copper, Folate, Selenium Vitamins B12, B6, C, and D. Taking the supplement couldn’t be easier – just dissolve the sachet into a glass of water, juice or into your daily smoothie to have on the go.

Irish owned and produced, Revive Active is available in leading pharmacies and health stores nationwide, as well as online on reviveactive.com (RRP £49.95 for onemonth supply). Revive Active has nine products in its portfolio which provide

total health from energy, joint care, brain & skin care.

Follow the conversation on, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. @ReviveActive #SuperSupplement

28 | Family Life

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Helpusprevent, support,careand rebuildlocallives likeIvan’sduring andafterCovid-19!

Meet 67-year-old Ivan Black from Belfast. Ivan is one of thousands of people who rely on Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke’s (NICHS) vital services during the Covid-19 pandemic.

I

van was diagnosed with cancer in 2015.

He went through chemotherapy but during his recovery he experienced problems with his lungs. It was during his Respiratory Rehabilitation that he was introduced to Pauline Millar of Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke.

Since meeting Pauline, Ivan participated in NICHS’s Taking Control Self-Management Programme – a programme designed for individuals with long-term health conditions which aims to help those individuals develop the skills and confidence they need to better manage their condition.

Before attending Taking Control, Ivan would rarely leave his home due to his condition, but thanks to the programme, he has come out of his shell and re-engaged with life again. Ivan is now on oxygen, which can limit some of the things he can do, however, he does not let that stop him from getting out and about to visit family and friends. He even took part in a sponsored walk at Stormont Estate just six months after starting the Taking Control programme. Ivan and Margaret have continued to manage his condition each day, and thanks to the support and encouragement and the knowledge gained from NICHS, he has been able to take on and achieve many challenges.

AFRAID TO GO OUT Sadly, since early March, Ivan has had to stay in his home to avoid Covid-19. Speaking about how the pandemic had impacted on his life, Ivan said: “Due to my condition, my muscles can deteriorate quickly and in the space of a year, I have gone from being able to walk around the Stormont Estate to being lucky to walk to the garden gate. I used to love going out, but now I’m afraid to leave the house and on the very rare occasion that I do, I feel that anyone could be a threat to my health.”

Fortunately, Ivan still receives support from NICHS. Speaking about how the charity’s support has helped, he said: “When we received a call from Gemma at NICHS we thought it was great that despite the loss

of the local group, we had a friendly voice at the end of a phone that would talk to us and make sure we had information and support.

“Having that local support there at the end of a phone is so important and it’s helped to keep me fighting against Covid.

With months more of Covid ahead of us, we know the NHS will be busy and we don’t want to be a burden, but if we had support services like NICHS’s care services, we know it would go a long way to helping keep everyone well and safe through Covid.”

SUPPORT NICHS AND HELP US KEEP CARING THROUGH COVID We live in challenging times, and NICHS knows it is even more difficult for people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions across Northern Ireland as they’re

Ivan Black is grateful for the support of NICHS in recent years and months missing out on vital health care, social engagement and regular outdoor exercise due to the coronavirus or Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite Covid-19 restrictions, NICHS has managed to still care through Covid. In the first six months of the pandemic, we’ve helped more than 20,000 callers to keep well and manage their condition. Our help has made a real difference, with: ►98% of people stating they felt less lonely and isolated ►95% felt less anxious ►92% said it helped them keep physically active

As we move into the winter months and towards 2021, the charity remains committed to being here for everyone who needs help through these difficult times. To help as many people as it can, NICHS has launched ‘Still Caring through Covid’. The campaign, which is supported by MACE, a long-term charity partner, aims to raise awareness about the charity’s services, which have been redesigned to take account of restrictions and as Northern Ireland moves through the pandemic.

With almost 90% of NICHS vital work funded by the public, the charity urgently needs support to help keep caring through Covid.

Help NICHS to continue to save and improve the lives of local people living with chest, heart and stroke conditions and support their families and loved ones by making a donation today – by visiting: www.nichs.org.uk Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment through the good times and the bad.

Ivan and his wife Margaret in their Belfast garden

30 | Family Life

HOWTO TACKLE TREATS

Tuckin

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Baked Raisin Apples Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 40 minutes Serves: 4 Adults

Freaky fruit salad

A tasty sweet recipe using apples, especially at Halloween, this is a great alternative to toffee apples.

This recipe was adapted from the Allergy NI cookbook Parties, Picnics & Packed Lunches

Prep Time: 20 minutes Serves: 6 Adults

INGREDIENTS

Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels Quite a few of us have added a few pounds to the scales during lockdown and children haven’t been exempt either.

• Foster healthy eating habits from an early age and you’ll save yourself – and your kids – heartache as well as trips to the dentist and the doctor.

• Experts reckon about 20% of what children eat is treat foods that are high in sugar, fat and salt. Crisps, biscuits, chocolate and sweets provide next to nothing in the way of nutrition and should only be eaten occasionally.

• Dr. Aileen McGloin, safefood, says: “We all know that children should be eating fewer treats, but cutting down is a real challenge.

Our children get treats for lots of reasons – to reward or bribe them; to get them to behave; to make them feel better (and to make us feel better too). Maybe it’s a habit, or because they’re there. And sometimes, it’s because we want a treat ourselves.”

4 large apples 85g / 3 oz. of maple syrup 2 tablespoons of chopped raisins 1 tablespoon of dairy-free margarine 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, optional

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 220C / 425F / Gas Mark 7 2. Core the apples and score the skin around the middle using a sharp vegetable knife.

3. Combine and mix the syrup, raisins and cinnamon (optional) in a small mixing bowl.

4. Place each apple on aluminum foil and stuff its core with the filling.

5. Spread a little of the margarine over the top of each apple.

6. Wrap the foil securely around the apples and bake in the oven for 35 minutes.

START WITH A PLAN – Switch to only having treats at the weekend, aiming for a treat-free day or cutting down on treats after school. Be realistic in your goals and consider some of the triggers.

4

OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND – At the supermarket, try to stay out of the treats aisles. At home, leave healthier foods within easy reach, like the fruit bowl.

5

GIVE REAL TREATS – Alternative treats could be a trip to the park, the woods, a playground, a beach or library. You could play a game with them, indoors or outside.

6

CELEBRATE SUCCESS – Reducing treats is a real challenge and you deserve to feel like a hero with every success.

2 medium kiwis 2 medium apples 1 medium pear 1 medium banana Small bunch of grapes - approx. 100g 1/2 punnet of strawberries - approx. 100g 6 large oranges - 1 per person 1 x 125g pot of low-fat fruit yoghurt 2 teaspoons of lemon juice

TO MAKE THE ‘PUMPKIN’:

LOOK AROUND – Tune into when and where you and your children see treats each day. It’s no surprise that treats are now ‘everyday’ foods.

3

INGREDIENTS

1. Peel the banana and the kiwis 2. Chop up kiwis, apples, pears, bananas, grapes into small pieces 3. Sprinkle the lemon juice over the fruit salad to prevent it turning brown, store in fridge for later

1

IT TAKES A HERO... Reducing treats can be really challenging. No parent wants to say no to their child, but in these situations our kids need to be protected.

The fruit in this recipe is only a suggestion so enjoy mix and matching as much as you like. The cake decorating pens can be bought in most supermarkets.

METHOD

6 STEPS TO REDUCING CHILDREN’S TREATS

2

Halloween is just around the corner.

Spice up snack time with these healthy options from safefood.

Everyday dinner Serves: 2 Adults Cooking time: 60 minutes Try this tasty and nutritious, easy to make dish. Enjoy these tasy chicken thighs that are low in salt and saturated fat.

Featured on the RTE programme Operation Transformation

INGREDIENTS

1 garlic clove 4 carrots 400g of tinned, chopped tomatoes 50g of tomato puree 1/2 a teaspoon of dried basil 1/2 a teaspoon of dried oregano 1 orange (you need 1 teaspoon of zest) Juice of 1/2 a lemon 4 skinless chicken thighs (still on the bone) 100g of wholewheat pasta, any shape sea salt and freshly ground black pepper (optional)

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C/ 325°F/ Gas Mark 3.

2. Grate the garlic. Peel the carrots and cut into slices on the diagonal.

3. Place the tomatoes, tomato puree, prepared garlic and carrots in a small casserole dish or saucepan with a lid. Stir in the basil and oregano and then using the fine side of the grater, grate in the orange rind and squeeze in the juice of half a lemon.

4. Add the chicken thighs and spoon over the sauce so that it covers them completely.

Season with a little salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper, if using. Cook for 1 hour until meltingly tender.

5. When the chicken thighs are almost done, bring a large saucepan of water to the boil with a pinch of salt. Add the pasta and cook according to packet instructions.

6. Drain the pasta and divide among plates.

Place two chicken thighs on each one and then finish by spooning over the sauce to serve. Garnish with fresh basil, if available.

1. Allow one large orange per person and wash under running water 2. The adult should take a sharp knife and cut the top off the orange so it looks like a small pumpkin with its lid off.

3. Carefully cut around the inside making sure not to damage the outer skin and remove what you can of the flesh; while still having it keep its shape. Put the removed orange in a bowl off to the side.

4. For fun give the empty ‘carved out’ skins and decorating pens to the children to create a pumpkin face.

5. Gently set aside and allow to dry 6. Juice half of the removed orange flesh and chop up the other half into smaller pieces and add into the fruit salad, pour the orange juice over and mix fruit.

7. Fill the ‘pumpkins’ with the fruit salad and replace their tops.

8. Add a small spoonful of yogurt just before eating.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 31

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Lost3stone3lbs: EmmaKavanagh’s weightlossstory

I

rejoined WW in June 2019. I had been before a few years ago and had some success but I got complacent. I thought I could do it on my own without going to the class – boy was I wrong! The weight slowly crept back up and every now and again, my mum, who is a Gold member, would say to me, “Why don’t you go back to workshop, Deirdre is always asking after you.”

I don’t know what made me go at that point in time, but I was ready to make a change and I knew that I could do it with WW because it worked before and so off I went back to the Canal Court workshop on that Tuesday evening and I haven’t looked back.

Even though the plan has changed and there is a new mobile phone app, the people are the same. Everyone is so friendly, there is no judgment whatsoever.

I love the tips that people share and the motivation you feel leaving the workshop after one of Deirdre’s talks. Every week the topic is different and so relevant, because even though we all have different lifestyles, jobs and family set ups, our challenges are all the same.

APP LIFELINE

My lifeline has been the app. I track my meals and activity every day by linking it up to my Fitbit watch. There is no ‘guestimating’ when it comes to smart points as you can scan every single item in your cupboard or supermarket and know the value straight away.

I got myself a little set of kitchen scales and I weigh out most foods for more accuracy. I set aside a couple of hours each weekend to prepare foods to freeze and

A slimmed down Emma Kavanagh celebrating a family birthday organise snacks to ensure I am set up for the week ahead. These are all the basic tools which have helped me successfully lose 45lb to date.

VICTORIES

Of course I haven’t lost weight consecutively every week on the scales but I think it’s important not to get disheartened and if you are consistent with following the plan it will show up the following week. I’ve had lots of little non scale victories too – getting smaller clothes, compliments from people you haven’t seen in a while but one of my biggest to date is inspiring my friend to join me at WW and go on her own weight loss journey with huge success too!

TREATS

Emma before she went back to WW

I am still on my journey but I am still enjoying it which for me is the main thing. I haven’t once felt deprived or that I couldn’t eat or drink something. No foods are out of bounds with WW – you just need to watch your budget and by saving a few points each day along with my extra weekly points, I can enjoy a take-away, a night out with the girls or a special occasion like a wedding or party.

I read this once and for me it sums up my WW journey, “If it doesn’t challenge you, then it won’t change you. No matter how terrified you are, do it anyway, you will thank yourself later. You will look back and be so proud.”

I’m so glad I joined the WW community again. Even without the physical workshops being on at the moment the camaraderie and support from all of the members has been brilliant. We really are all in this together!

32 | Family Life

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

NUTRITIONFORAHEALTHY IMMUNESYSTEM Immune provides 2000IU of Vitamin D in Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) format to support healthy immune function.

IRON Iron is essential to life for both men and women; as well as supporting immune function, it helps reduce tiredness and fatigue, plays an important role in normal energy metabolism, oxygen transport, cognitive function, and formation of red blood cells. Iron and immunity are closely linked, it is required by the body for both first and secondary immune response.

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older months are fast approaching and perhaps this year more than ever, it’s important to look after your immune system. There are many reasons why you may tend to get sick more often in winter, including spending more time in confined spaces and flu activity thriving in a colder climate. While there’s little we can do about the weather, it’s important to consider your diet if you want to support your immune system. Lack of sunlight during this latter part of the year means that vitamin D levels can decrease.

Vitamin D is one of the essential vitamins

Vitamin C, zinc and iron have long been established in their role of supporting a healthy immune system.

VITAMIN C Vitamin C is an important vitamin found in many fruit and vegetables including broccoli, bell pepper and citrus fruit. It is an essential water-soluble vitamin which means your body must consume Vitamin C every day. Vitamin C is key in supporting a healthy immune system. Active Immune contains the optimal dose of Vitamin C to support a healthy immune function.

that helps to maintain a strong immune system. Vitamin C, zinc and iron have long been established in their role of supporting a healthy immune system.

The immune system is a complex and adaptable system. To support healthy immune function, your body requires a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle that includes rest, exercise, sleep, and adequate nutrition to provide a variety of vitamins and minerals. A diet that is low in fruit and vegetables has been associated with a weakened immune system. Your body requires essential nutrients found in these

ZINC Zinc is an essential mineral that plays many important roles in our bodies including maintenance of bones, skin, hair and nails; carbohydrate metabolism; cognitive function; fertility and reproduction; and vision support. Zinc has an essential role to play in supporting a healthy immune function. Active Immune contains 20mg of Zinc, this form of supplemental Zinc is easily absorbed.

foods to support your immune system.

A balanced diet is one of the best ways to support your immune system and provide the nutrients your body needs. There are essential vitamins that are not stored by your body so must be consumed. If you suspect your diet may not be providing you with immune supporting vitamins & minerals such as vitamin C, zinc, iron and vitamin D, or you are unable to absorb the nutrients from food alone, you may choose to supplement.

VITAMIN D Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin, this is because our body can synthesize vitamin D with adequate sun exposure. It can be difficult to maintain Vitamin D levels particularly during winter months when exposure to sunshine is limited in the northern hemisphere. Active

NEW ACTIVE IMMUNE HELPS BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM There are many ‘immune boosting’ supplements on the market, however only a few of these supplements have been scientifically proven to support your immune system in a measurable way.

Nutrients including Vitamin C, Vitamin D and Zinc have been proven to support immunity. If you are unable to meet your daily requirements for these essential nutrients, you may decide to supplement.

New Active Immune is specially designed to help you maintain a healthy immune system. Our high-strength formula combines three essential nutrients, high-potency vitamin D, vitamin C and zinc in a one-a-day capsule. New Active Immune is vegan and free from artificial preservatives, gluten, yeast and dairy.

Visit www.activeiron.com to view our full range of products to support your immune system. *A food supplement is not a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.

34 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Lockdownbabies: newmumsonthe highsandlowsof givingbirthin2020 Bringing a new baby into the world can be an overwhelming experience, particularly for first time parents. So what it’s like when your baby is born in the midst of a global pandemic and lockdown, with bans on hospital visits, social distancing and ongoing anxieties about protecting the health of your new-born? Maureen Coleman finds out...

F

or three local mums, this was their reality when each gave birth during lockdown. With their husbands only allowed into the delivery room for a short while, no visits from family or friends and no cuddles for doting grandparents, the experience was a far cry from what these first time mums had been expecting.

At the same time, the restrictions gave each of the young families a chance to bond as one unit and to appreciate quality time with each other.

Sarah Wilson is a solicitor and married to David. Baby Christopher was born at the Ulster Hospital on March 27.

“With this being my first baby, I’d nothing to compare it to, but there were definite pluses and minuses. I had to be induced and was on the induction ward for almost 48 hours, without any visits. David was allowed to be present in the delivery ward for Christopher’s birth, but he had to leave not long after. The midwives carried my bags back down to the ward. That was tough, but just one of those things.

“I could’ve stayed longer but I knew David would be at a loose end at home, waiting for us, and I just wanted to be there. He’d been able to hold him in the hospital, but it was hard for him having to leave. I couldn’t wait to get home.

“Friends with babies had told me what a nightmare it could be with people constantly calling but of course, we didn’t have that. In saying that, we couldn’t see our families either. Our mums came down to the house and we held Christopher up at the window so they could see him. We had a glass of champagne on both sides of the glass. We had no choice really but to make the best of the situation.

“When restrictions were lifted, both sets of parents came down to the garden to meet him properly for the first time. We were lucky with the great weather. For the first eight weeks or so, no-one came into the house and we maintained social distancing in the garden. It was strange not being able to hug my mum but it meant so much to see her looking so lovingly at my son.

“The first time his grannies held him was magical and emotional. It was such a big deal to them both; a very special

memory. It’s been such a strange time for everyone but the time has flown in and Christopher continues to go from strength to strength.”

Sarah Clarke works for the Environment Agency and is married to Ryan. Baby Jensen was born on May 25 at the Ulster Hospital.

“Jensen wasn’t due until June 24 but he took us by surprise and was born a month early. When my waters broke, I thought it was a false labour but when the contractions got stronger, I went to the hospital.

Ryan wasn’t allowed in with me and had to wait in the car park at first, until I called him and told him he was able to come in.

“Ryan had to leave about an hour after Jensen was born. I’d lost a lot of blood and because Jensen was premature, I had to stay in for a week. I wasn’t allowed any visitors and that was awful. I felt really emotional but had to keep it together. I was feeding Jensen every three hours and not getting much sleep. That was really tough. When Ryan came up to the car park, the midwife went out to collect my bags and belongings. On the second day, they told us Jensen had jaundice and had to go into an incubator with UV lights to get him right. I was so worried about him and not having Ryan there was so hard.

“Getting home was like Christmas, times a million. When I went into our house

Bangor family Sarah and Ryan Clarke and baby Jensen

Sarah Wilson and little Christopher in their Bangor garden and saw the Moses basket set up and all his little clothes laid out, I broke down in tears. Because he was premature we had to be extra careful. When our parents came to visit in the back garden, they had to stay at a safe distance and it was tough on them, not being able to cuddle him.

“Ryan was furloughed during lockdown, which was a huge help. He’s a natural dad.

And when our parents were able to hold Jensen, it was amazing. I still won’t bring him to the shops but we go for walks in the park. It’s been a surreal experience but we’ll have plenty of stories to tell him when he’s older.”

Louise Gilvary, Aer Lingis cabin crew, is married to Damian. Baby Theo was born on April 27 at the Royal.

“I had to be induced so had to go into hospital on my own. I won’t lie, I felt like crying at the time. This isn’t how it was meant to be. The midwives were absolute angels but it wasn’t the same as having my husband there with me.

“To begin with, I felt so lonely. As Theo’s our first baby, I didn’t know what to expect. It was pretty nerve-wracking. When I was moved to the delivery suite, Damian was allowed in but I was there for a few

Louise and Theo Gilvary at home in Lisburn hours before he could come in. I ended up having to have a C-section and after Theo was born, Damian had to leave about an hour and a half later.

“With me having had a section, Damian got to take Theo back to the delivery suite and to give him his first bottle. That was a special moment for him. I held Theo for five minutes but I was really conscious that Damian would have to leave soon so I let him hold onto him for a bit. He got to change his first nappy too.

“I was determined to get home as soon as possible. Friends who’d had babies described it as whirlwind afterwards, with so many people coming round, but because of restrictions, it was just us three and that was really lovely. Obviously, I would’ve loved for my mum and Damian’s mum to be there too but when they finally did get to meet him in the back garden, it was special. They both cried.

“Naturally, I would’ve liked the hospital experience to have been more normal but on the flip side, we’ve had this really special time to bond as a family and get into a wee routine. We’ve thrown ourselves into being parents and it’s been brilliant.”

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

ADVERTISING FEATURE

ALCOHOLAND PREGNANCY: WHATYOU NEEDTOKNOW TOMAKEAN INFORMED DECISION T here are many views on how safe it is to drink alcohol during pregnancy and this has often led to mixed messages and confusion on the topic. The Chief Medical Officers across the UK have issued clear guidelines on the use of alcohol during pregnancy.

IS IT SAFE TO DRINK ALCOHOL WHEN PREGNANT? There is no known safe level of alcohol use during pregnancy. For this reason, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for Northern Ireland (NI) and CMOs across the United Kingdom have agreed the following guidelines: ➜ If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, the safest approach is not to drink alcohol at all, to keep risks to your baby to a minimum. ➜ Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to long-term harm to the baby, with the more you drink the greater the risk. ➜ Not drinking alcohol in pregnancy, or when planning a pregnancy, is the safest option.

HOW DOES ALCOHOL AFFECT AN UNBORN BABY? When a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, the alcohol in her blood passes through the placenta to the baby. As the baby does not have a fully developed liver, they cannot filter out the toxins from the alcohol as well as an adult can.

Instead, the alcohol circulates in the

baby’s blood system and, in doing so, it can damage the baby’s developing brain and nervous system at any point during the nine months of pregnancy.

There is no known safe level of alcohol use during pregnancy.

WHAT IS FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER (FASD)?

FASD is an umbrella term for lifelong brain damage and other alcoholrelated disorders and birth defects caused by alcohol exposure to a developing baby in the womb. The mother does not have to be drinking heavily for this to occur. The effects can be mild or severe, ranging from reduced intellectual ability, attention difficulties, poor behavioural and emotional development, hyperactivity and facial abnormalities.

There is no cure for FASD, however, it is 100% preventable.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE AFFECTED BY FASD? The incidence of FASD in Northern Ireland, as well as internationally, is not accurately known but is estimated to be 1 in every 100 births.

Further information and support services If you need help to stop drinking, or have any concerns or questions about pregnancy and alcohol, contact your GP or midwife or visit www.drugsandalcoholni. info for information on local services.

Family Life | 35

36 | Family Life

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

BelfastFertility: Backmaking dreamsoffamily arealityagain S truggling to start or add to a family can be an emotionally challenging time, requiring extra help and support. With a long established reputation as a specialist private clinic, Belfast Fertility is to the forefront of new developments in the field. Its state-of-theart, purpose-built facilities at Edgewater Road are now open again and supporting individuals and couples through their assisted conception journey.

General Manager Matthew Laird said the clinic, which reopened in June after the lockdown, has introduced a number of measures to ensure the safety of patients and staff and to make their journey a little easier. “Some of the key things we’re doing post-covid include virtual consultations with doctors and nurses which have become very popular. That’s great in respect that the patient doesn’t have to travel to the clinic and if one partner is working and one is at home, they can both dial into the consultation.”

There are other benefits to holding consultations online. “It reduces the footfall into the clinic so patients are only coming in when they need to. The safety of patients and staff is of paramount importance to us.”

In addition, patients with appointments now wait in the private car park; staff screen their temperature and call them in when they’re ready for them.

Treatments that were delayed by the lockdown have now progressed and the

facility is registering new patients, however, unprecedented levels of enquiries and the additional safety measures mean there is a wait time with regards to some types of treatment.

WHY CHOOSE BELFAST FERTILITY? It’s part of the Fertility Partnership, the largest provider of IVF in the UK with some of the highest success rates in Europe – a Fertility Partnership baby is born every two hours. Patients in Belfast benefit from international research which continually drives clinical excellence and innovation to help people achieve the families of their dreams.

Established six years ago as GCRM-Belfast by the pioneers of IVF in Northern Ireland, Belfast Fertility brings together local and international experts. Collaborating with a nationally recognised male fertility expert it was the first clinic in Northern Ireland to achieve a live birth with MicroTese.

HELPING THE ONE IN SIX Unfortunately fertility issues affect an estimated one in six couples, often with the underlying factor unknown or a combination of issues. Extensive specialist tests are available to help couples and individuals understand if fertility treatment is suitable for them.

Women who wish to delay pregnancy until they feel ready or in a better position to start a family can avail of the fertility preservation service, with the option to store their eggs for up to 10 years.

While women aged up to 44 can be treated with their own eggs, women in the 4450 age category can receive egg donation from local donors. Belfast Fertility has seen a recent increase in local altruistic donors who give the amazing gift of helping others have a family.

GOING THE EXTRA MILE Belfast Fertility hosts virtual information evenings for single people and couples who

are thinking of starting fertility treatment or who may have had unsuccessful treatment elsewhere. Members of the LGBTQ+ community who are considering their options in starting a family are also welcome.

Fertility treatment can be stressful and time consuming. In addition to offering three counselling sessions as part of its exceptional value packages, Belfast Fertility also has outreach clinics in Newry, Letterkenny, Ballykelly and Dublin, including evening appointments in Newry. Monitoring scans in Belfast are also conducted from 7.30am to allow as little disruption to patients as possible when going through treatment.

The team are proud of their pregnancy success rates which continue to improve as

research and innovation are shared across The Fertility Partnership Group. This has led to every precious embryo being placed in a time-lapse incubator for five days, regardless of the number of embryos a patient has, and embryo glue being provided as standard without the need for confusing add on treatments. As a well-established clinic, Belfast Fertility is licensed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). Patient feedback and success rates can be found on the HFEA website and at belfastfertility.co.uk.

Please call 028 9078 1335 for more information. Visit www.belfastfertility.co.uk or email info@belfastfertility.co.uk to see how Belfast Fertility can help you start or build your family.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Family Life | 39

Claire’sstory Claire Magee is MD of Nannycare, the goat milk baby formula company with almost 30 years’ experience in goat milk nutrition for babies and toddlers.

“I

t’s been a long, often tough but extremely fulfilling journey to arrive where we are today.

We are now listed in most UK supermarkets and also have a growing presence in Ireland which is especially pleasing as I grew up in Derry, where my parents had a primary school nearby, and I later studied at Queens University in Belfast.

“From a child I had always wanted my own business although I was also aware it was bound to be a difficult path with high risk attached. Yet the attraction grew, but only for a product that felt genuinely worthwhile - not just another vitamin pill or herb teabag that had to be hyped up against the competition! No, it had to have a genuine purpose.

“In the early 1990s, I chanced across the world’s first goat milk-based formula for babies. I studied the product and the market and had a distinct feeling that this somehow ticked the boxes. It was a unique product, offering an obvious but genuinely different choice to mums to the very long-standing cow’s milk-based options, if breastfeeding was not possible or mum chose to complementary feed. That feeling gave birth to the Nannycare brand!”

Claire knew it was never going to be an easy journey. “Quickly discovering that EU and UK legislation supported only cow’s and soy-based options (there was no goat milk formula in Europe at the time of drafting), we had to fight to get the legislation changed.

As a small company in a world of Goliaths, it often seemed a completely hopeless task – yet somehow the inspiration was there to keep going.

Mums who were using it were so grateful and seemed to tell us so at all the right times!”

After many twists and turns and following a clinical trial and extensive scientific dossier to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), they were at last successful.

Nannycare had finally

Claire Magee, MD of Nannycare succeeded in achieving an amendment to both EU and UK legislation (2014) and at long last, equal recognition was given to goat milk formula alongside its cow’s milk equivalent. “Yes, there certainly were squeals of delight and champagne in the office that day – and a massive sigh of relief as all of our hard work over many years had finally paid off!”

THE WONDER OF GOAT MILK Not everyone appreciates that goat milk is one of the oldest sources of human nutrition; it has been used for 10,000 years! Today the benefits are being rediscovered.

WHY GOAT MILK FOR FOLLOW-ON FORMULA? Goat milk has some features that make it an obvious choice for use in Follow-on. It is naturally nourishing and gentle on tiny tummies. Following

digestion, it forms soft curds which break apart easily, making it a soft and gentle choice. And naturally goat milk contains eight times more prebiotics than cow’s milk1.

In some ways, goat milk is considered to have closer similarity to breast milk than cow’s milk. Studies have found it contains some of the same health-boosting properties also found in human milk2.

A SIMPLER PROCESS The Nannycare process is deliberately minimal to help protect the natural nutrients such as nucleotides and phospholipids present in the whole goat milk base.

Over and above the goat milk, Nannycare add only the further additional ingredients the baby needs to meet regulatory levels – and never palm oil, glucose syrups or maltodextrin – keeping the formulations as close to their natural source as possible while still supplying all the vitamins, minerals and nutrients the baby needs to help support healthy growth.

And just in case there are any concerns about taste, goat milk is a delicate milk requiring careful handling. As the goat milk for baby experts, they know how to avoid any aroma to ensure a mild and delicate flavour babies will really enjoy.

Claire explained: “At Nannycare, we talk to mums every day, and we know all they want is for their little ones to be happy, healthy and feeding well. After all, contented babies and toddlers mean happy families – and that leaves much more time for getting closer to nature on a lovely outdoor walk, hunting for mini beasts or

splashing in puddles!”

Goat milk-based Follow-on gives you more choice. And who doesn’t want that as a parent? If it is time to move on to Follow-on, it’s worth considering a goat milk-based option. Talk to your doctor or health visitor about what’s best.

WHERE CAN I BUY IT? Nannycare Follow-on milk is now available from Boots.com, and selected Boots and Tesco stores; also available on Amazon, or you can order in local independent pharmacies for early collection.

HOW CAN MUMS FIND OUT MORE ABOUT NANNYCARE FOLLOW-ON? For any queries, call the Nannycare Careline UK: 0800 328 5826, email us on enquiry@nannycare.co.uk or visit our website for more FAQs www.nannycare. co.uk IMPORTANT NOTICE: Goat milk formula is not suitable for infants with diagnosed cow’s milk protein allergy. Breastfeeding is best for your baby. Follow-on milk should only be used as part of a mixed diet and not as a breastmilk substitute before six months. Consult your healthcare professional for feeding advice.

1. Dong, X., Zhou, S., & Mechref, Y. (2016). LCMS/MS analysis. Electrophoresis 37, 1532-1548 2. It is similar to human milk in that it contains numerous cytoplasmic particles that are broken off from the cell during apocrine secretion (Boutinaud & Jammes, 2002) https:// www.jfhc.co.uk/goat-milk-measure-formulas

40 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Explore our heritage on your holiday, at Navan Fort

A tranquil sunset at Boa Island in Fermanagh ©NITB Photographic Library

Greatautumngetaways

C

risp autumn days are made for getting out and about. The temperatures aren’t yet cold and the stunning seasonal panoply of reds, golds and oranges is enough to lure even the most dedicated couch potato outdoors. Why not book a few days away at mid-term to relax and unwind. Have some fun kicking through leaves with the kids, taking the brisk sea air at the beach and letting someone else do all the work! A change of scene even for a day or two is a powerful way to recharge the batteries and with so many of us missing out on a main holiday this summer, short breaks are just what the doctor ordered. Check for local restrictions before you go. Here are some options to whet your appetite:

LIQUID GOLD

The Fermanagh Lakelands are scenic at any time of year; misty mornings add to the magic in autumn. Scale the heights at Cuilcagh Mountain’s Stairway to Heaven, then plumb the depths of the exciting Marble Arch Caves nearby. Take a tour of Enniskillen Castle, stroll around one of the National Trust properties at Florence Court, Crom Castle or Castle Coole, take the kids to Fermanagh Fun Farm or take to the water by boat, canoe, with a fishing rod – or don your wetsuits and dive in!

CRUNCH TIME

The Orchard County is at its fruity best at harvest time. Head for Armagh now for crunch talks and fun events like Cooking with fire at the keeper’s lodge, at the Food and Cider Weekend (September 25-27). Or mix learning and laughs at Navan Fort, where history comes alive. Get close to nature at Oxford Island, study the stars at the Planetarium when it reopens after renovations or spend a day at Brownlow House and Lurgan Park with its beautiful walks, lake and play park.

The Aurora Borealis over Tra na Rossan, Donegal captured by Rita Wilson © Failte Ireland

The Dark Hedges is at its spookiest at halloween ©John Miskelly Photography the Glens of Antrim is a must. Make your base at Ballycastle and explore the area from Carrick-A-Rede ropebridge west to the Giant’s Causeway or head east to Torr Head. At halloween, have a spooky time at the Dark Hedges, said to be haunted by the Grey Lady, or take the ferry across to Rathlin Island and watch the famous seabirds, seals and puffins.

CAPITAL TIME

Visit Dublin and get a head start on your Christmas shopping. Take in the city sights from St Stephen’s Green to Trinity College, scan the horizon from the Croke Park Skyline or the Guinness Storehouse, or explore its literary icons like Joyce, Beckett and Swift at the Museum of Literature

Causeway calling!

Don’t miss the delights of this Giant of a destination with autumn bringing added richness to already striking scenery as you travel the Causeway Coastal Route, one of the world’s top drives. A stop at Glenariff in

Ireland. Take the DART out to one of the beautiful coastal villages on the outskirts of the city and climb Howth or Killiney for breathtaking views over Dublin Bay. You can even enjoy a seaside break at Bray or Dun Laoghaire and still have a capital time in the city.

WILD WEST

See Sligo as the wind whips up those wild Atlantic waves. Between long, sandy strands and rough, rocky surf beaches, there’s all sorts of natural drama in this part of the country. Stay in Sligo town for its lovely boho vibe and make sure you do the Sligo Scenic Drive, Lough Gill and Yeats County Route. From Sligo town, head to Rosses Point, Drumcliffe, Benbulben, Lough Gill and Strandhill. Take a day at Strandhill beach and walk to the top of Knocknarea Mountain – an enjoyable 90 minute hike to a prehistoric cairn that predates the pyramids where Connaught’s warrior queen Maeve is said to be buried on horseback.

NORTHERN DE-LIGHTS

Dublin’s docklands at sunset

Escape to Donegal at any time, any year for the perfect antidote to stress. Majestic scenery, a dozen Blue Flag beaches and that warm Donegal welcome await. Bring

Climb Sligo’s Knocknarea Mountain to see Queen Maeve’s Cairn the family to Donegal town and explore the castle, take a boat across Donegal Bay and visit Assaranca Waterfall and stunning Silver Strand. Get snap happy on the scenic drive up past Errigal and let the kids burn off energy at gorgeous Glenveagh National Park. Or stay at lively Letterkenny and tour the northern headlands with their lighthouses and ever changing scenery.

Don’t forget to look up when it gets dark for an awesome view of the stars and if you’re lucky, you might even see the wonderful Northern Lights!

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

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Family Life | 41

Historicsettingmeets modernexperienceat

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ArmaghCityHotel

rmagh City Hotel has created a new milestone in award winning hospitality. Not only does its international sophistication blend beautifully with its ancient setting, the hotel is making its own unique history offering a mix of luxury accommodation, excellent conference facilities, spectacular leisure* facilities and dynamic combination of professionalism and friendly service.

The hotel is centrally located for guests travelling from all areas of Ireland, both north and south. Situated on an elevated position, with panoramic views over a historic landscape, it is the ideal place to soak

up the sights and sounds of Ireland’s oldest city, and is only a short walk from an array of cafes, restaurants and shops.

There’s a choice of dining options within the hotel: the Friary Restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere and plenty of food for thought and is open Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday lunchtime.

The hotel’s Callan Bar features secluded corners and a relaxing atmosphere and offers a Grill bar menu daily, while the popular Deli is open daily offering snacks and light lunches. So whatever the occasion you will find the perfect place to sit back and enjoy your own company or to mingle

with friends, family or colleagues. Using the finest local produce and the latest international techniques the hotel’s chefs have designed mouth-watering menus to suit all tastes.

There is so much to see and do in the area and the hotel is delighted to work with a few of the key attractions on their latest autumn offer! The Cider Tour and Tasting at Armagh Cider Company, located within 20 minutes’ drive of the hotel, will assault all of your senses with appley goodness. See how their multi-award-winning Armagh Cider is made from ‘Blossom to Bottle’ on the farm where the Troughton family have been growing apples for more than 100 years.

Navan Centre & Fort, one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, is a place where myth and reality meet. Walk in the footsteps of warriors as your guide explains the significance of the great temple of 95BC and shows you the re-

maining banks and ditches, before inviting you to meet the resident Celtic clan.

Armagh Planetarium offers visitors a unique experience which is quite simply ‘out of this world’. The Planetarium’s amazing Digital Dome Theatre is a place to relax and experience our planet and beyond; take a tour of the night sky, or even discover some of the myths behind the star constellations. Each show is a memorable experience and one that you will treasure.

All this and still plenty more to see and do in the area.

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Check out www.visitarmagh.com to find out more.

So to take advantage of this or any one of our great offers visit www. armaghcityhotel.com * Health & Fitness Club now fully open again and adhering to the Government Covid-19 guidelines, therefore times need to be pre-booked for the swimming pool.

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Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

Haveanastronomical timeatthe

Planetarium

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ake the trip to Armagh Observatory and Planetarium which offers visitors a unique experience which is quite simply ‘out of this world’.

In the Planetarium’s amazing 360-degree Dome Theatre you can relax and experience our planet and beyond; take a tour of the night sky, or even discover some spooky space over the Halloween halfterm. Each show is a memorable experience and one that you will treasure.

After all that excitement, you can then

explore the exhibition areas to learn more about the cosmos. Take a trip into our Mars room and look at the largest meteorite on display in Ireland which is an amazing 4.6 billion years old. See our scale models such as the International Space Station and the Hubble Space Telescope and let our presenters guide you through some amazing experiments that you can try at home.

If you have the time, you can have a stroll around the Astropark, which displays a scale model of the Universe where visitors can walk through the Solar System into the Milky Way and beyond; or why not try some astronaut ice cream from our gift shop?

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has reduced visitor capacity and has social distancing measures in place through out the building. Please note that pre-booking is essential for all visits.

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Book your visit on www.armagh.space/visit

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

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Family Life | 43

Exploremorein Armagh&Banbridge!

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scape to the Orchard County of Armagh this autumn, home to some of the most beautiful, peaceful places imaginable. Easily accessible from all areas of Northern Ireland, Armagh and Banbridge attractions offer a safe space to enjoy and explore. A wide range of accommodation options are available from high quality hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, self-catering, tee-pees to shepherd’s huts!

For an appreciation of nature, try one of our country parks or green spaces. The Navan Centre & Fort offers an insight into our ancient past, as you visit the stunning hillside site of Emain Macha, famed for its

Celtic warriors at Navan Centre & Fort

amazing archaeological discoveries. Learn of the heroes and warriors who roamed these lands, before meeting a real life Celtic clan in their Iron Age dwelling! Tours take place Thursday-Sunday with children free in September and October. The Navan Centre’s programme of special events for the season ahead includes Little Spooks: Halloween, Vikings and Apple Harvest.

Reflecting on the more recent past, Armagh County Museum’s Troubles Art continues until October 22. This major touring exhibition features artists’ responses to the conflict in Northern Ireland and border counties, comprising paintings, drawings and photographs from renowned artists such as Geordie Morrow, Rita Duffy and Joseph McWilliams. It explores a broad range of themes such as suffering and loss, violence and destruction, imprisonment, sectarianism, traditions, territory and life in the midst of turmoil. The museum is open Monday-Friday, admission is free.

F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio is delighted to present Living with Art: Picasso to Celmins (October 17, 2020 – January 30, 2021). This British Museum touring exhibition showcases highlights from the collection of celebrated film critic Alexander Walker (1930-2003). Born in Portadown, Walker was the film critic for

Alexander Walker in his Maida Vale apartment surrounded by his collection in 2002 © Rob Carter London’s Evening Standard for 40 years and wrote books on stars including Audrey Hepburn and Peter Sellers. Walker left his collection of 200 works on paper to the British Museum. This exhibition includes 30 prints and drawings by artists ranging from Picasso and Matisse to Lucian Freud, Bridget Riley, David Hockney and Vija Celmins. Admission free.

If you need to refuel after an energetic day then cosy restaurants, cafes and pubs offer fine quality food with an emphasis on local produce. Try local cheeses, apples, meat and vegetables and more to whet the appetite.

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For more information on what to see and do and where to stay, see www.visitarmagh.com

10pm, 1987 Patrick Coogan

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Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020 ADVERTISING FEATURE

FunfilledbreaksinDublin Book now to avail of our amazing Autumn Family Break offer

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reat your family to two nights’ bed and breakfast in our newly refurbished hotel, a family pizza night on arrival with two family size pizzas, a bottle of house wine, sweet treats and soft drinks for the children, tickets to your choice of either Dublin Zoo or Tayto Park for a fun day out and welcome gift for kids on arrival.

It is the kind of weekend that makes for great family memories, and all in the heart of Dublin.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic offer and a fun filled autumn break.

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Autumnfamily breaksat CastleknockHotel

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eel the leaves crunch underfoot and watch the trees turn to vibrant colours this autumn at Castleknock Hotel. With lots to see and do, we are ideally located on the edge of the Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo and Dublin city centre with plenty of fun family activities nearby.

Castleknock Hotel was awarded the Fáilte Ireland Safety Charter as well as being the first hotel in Ireland to receive the Hygiene Assured Mark.

In addition to our 18 metre swimming pool we also have a private children’s playground situated next to our brand new heated patio area - whatever the weather you can relax and enjoy a coffee while keeping an eye on the little ones. We offer family rooms, interconnecting rooms and enhancements for your stay including children’s tepees and children’s welcome packs in room on arrival during midterm break.

Enjoy an Autumn family break at Castleknock Hotel with our 1, 2 and 3-night options including breakfast and one family evening meal. Prices start from €250 based on 2 adults and 2 children under 12 sharing. Call 00353 1640 6300 to book or email reservations@castleknockhotel.ie For more Special Offers see www.castleknockhotel.com

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph ADVERTISING FEATURE

Quietbreaksandactiveadventures fromthe SligoParkHotel

A warm welcome awaits you at the newlyrefurbished, family-run Sligo Park Hotel and Leisure Club.

Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, the contemporary and stylish four-star hotel is the perfect getaway. Perfect for both quiet breaks or active adventures, the Sligo Park Hotel has it all.

Relax in the plush surrounds of the hotel, which is set on lush landscaped gardens on the outskirts of Sligo town and chill out in the new-look Health & Leisure Club with its 16-metre heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and plunge pool.

Or enjoy a more active break exploring Sligo’s famous historic sights and trying out the many activities available in the vibrant seaside town.

Located in the heart of Yeats’ Country, the

Sligo Park Hotel is surrounded by some of Ireland’s most iconic scenic spots, ranging from the majestic Benbulben to the dramatic coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way. Spectacular views are a feature of the hotel’s bedrooms.

There are plenty of delicious dining options at the Sligo Park Hotel, perfect to whet your appetite after a day’s exploring. Savour the atmosphere of Jack B’s Bar and Garden Terrace and enjoying the creative delights of our award-winning Hazelwood Restaurant.

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Located only 2.5 hours from Dublin and Belfast, two hours from Galway and one hour from Donegal, get in touch at www.sligopark.com or call 00353 7191 90400.

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Ahomefromhome ontheCausewayCoast

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he award-winning Causeway Coast Holiday Park in Ballycastle is an outstanding 4-star holiday park for families of all generations.

Explore the world-famous Causeway Coast, with Giants Causeway and Portrush within a short drive. Take advantage of the many on-site facilities.

Splash in the indoor swimming pool with slide or spend hours playing in the arcade or outdoor play area.

Stay in one of our glamping lodges or caravan holiday homes. For the ultimate relaxation, book into one of our apartments with a private hot tub.

Perfect for an autumn short break.

Want to make family memories last a lifetime? Buy your own Caravan Holiday Home. We offer a selection of new and pre-owned holiday homes from only £17,500. Our site fees are very

competitive and can be paid over 10 months. Owners enjoy exclusive benefits including free unlimited WiFi. We can offer help to buy packages, excellent finance deals, and no site fees until 2021 on selected models*. Call the sales team now on 028 2076 2550 or visit hagansleisure.co.uk for more details. *T&C’s apply.

Family Life | 45

46 | Family Life

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Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

SwapdailylifeforLakeland luxuryat BelleIsle

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ituated on the northern tip of Upper Lough Erne, near Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, Belle Isle is a 400acre estate that has been designated a Special Area of Conservation.

The estate is entirely private which means that guests staying at Belle Isle are the only people permitted to walk on the trails and enjoy the estate grounds.

The 18th century Belle Isle Castle accommodates up to 26 people in 13 luxurious bedrooms. This is the perfect location for a medium sized wedding of up to 60 people.

The estate is brimming with character and offers a unique experience for families and pets!

The beautifully restored 10 Courtyard Apartments offer wood-burning stoves, barbecue grills, private picnic tables and a homely feel. It is the perfect place to return to after a busy day exploring the Estate and Fermanagh Lakelands attractions.

The estate also boasts two charming cottages perched at the water’s edge. A stone’s throw from nature, a long way from the pressures of daily life.

Belle Isle offers its guests a wide range of activities such as walking two designat-

Belle Isle is perfect for weddings Rafal Borek Photography

Guests have exclusive use of the estate grounds ed field and woodland trails, fishing and boating.

Belle Isle Bistro and Bar is centrally located on the estate, just minutes from Belle Isle Castle and adjacent to our self-catering accommodation. This 40 seat restaurant offers breakfast and dinner to guests staying at Belle Isle, with the finest of locally sourced ingredients cooked to perfection by our resident chef Jerome Nicolle.

Once the guests have arrived on the island via a short single lane bridge, they feel like they have left the outside world behind. Popular for couples getaways, family holidays and weddings. Belle isle offers a truly special experience.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

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Family Life | 47

Timetounwindwitha L

Donegalescape

etterkenny is the heart of north west Ireland, and offers an exceptional experience for every type of visitor.

With breath-taking scenery, this northern – almost untouched – stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way is an absolute essential, any time of year.

The four-star Radisson Blu Hotel & Health Club is renowned for extending a truly warm Donegal welcome. Just a five minute walk from the main street, hotel guests have easy access to Letterkenny’s

best shopping and events without all the noise.

Book with flexibility and peace of mind when you choose the Radisson Blu in Letterkenny. In addition to being Fáilte Ireland Safety Charter approved, the hotel has also developed the ‘Radisson Hotel Safety Protocol’ to provide a safe stay for all of their guests.

The hotel boasts 114 guestrooms and suites

with welcoming amenities. Each stylish room is decorated with a soothing colour palette, setting the tone for a restful night’s sleep. Guests can enjoy AA Rosette award-winning cuisine on-site in the cosy Port Bistro, before a hearty breakfast in the morning.

Book your break from October – December 2020 and enjoy two nights B&B and one dinner from €119.00pps or three nights B&B and two dinners from €193.50pps. Dinner consists of a fourcourse meal, and packages include leisure club access, car parking and wifi.

The town centre offers tourists a host of things to do and see – from visiting the majestic Cathedral Quarter to wandering through the charming Market Square.

Many visitors come to explore Glenveagh National Park, just a short drive

from Radisson Blu Letterkenny. The park covers almost 17 hectares of mountains, lakes, gardens and woodland, and includes the 19th century castle. Visitors will find many things to do in Glenveagh National Park, including self-guided walks, hiking and tours of the castle.

After a full day, relax and unwind in the fully equipped leisure centre with indoor swimming pool, before sinking back into the sumptuous setting of the newly refurbished hotel surroundings for pre-dinner drinks or a catch up with friends.

Letterkenny offers an excellent choice of entertainment, restaurants and nearby golfing options. Now is the time to make the trip and discover Donegal for yourself from the comfort of the Radisson Blu Letterkenny.

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To book contact the team today on 00353 74919 4444 or visit radissonhotels.com.

48 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020 ADVERTISING FEATURE

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MAKETHEBAYVIEW YOURCAUSEWAYBASE

SeeDonegal’sdelights fromtheAbbeyHotel

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ook your staycation along the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal town. Let the Abbey Hotel be your base with guestrooms overlooking the Iconic Diamond and River Eske. Within steps of the hotel enjoy strolls along the Pier, the Bank Walk, tour Donegal Castle, visit Triona to see how Donegal Tweed is made, cruise along the Bay on Donegal’s Waterbus and receive shopping discounts in Donegal town.

Explore the 1134km of rugged Wild Atlantic Way during your stay and ensure you visit the highest seacliffs in Europe, Sliagh Liag. The views are sure to impress and we highly recommend a boat ride with Sliagh Liag Boat Trips. As sail in the Wild Atlantic Way looking up at the cliffs.

Donegal Golf Club is just 10 minutes away from the Abbey Hotel with a fantastic 18 links golf course. Donegal has 12 Blue Flag beaches, make sure you bring your camera to capture the magical memories.

Enjoy culinary pleasures during your stay with a choice of dining options from The Food Hall serving brunch and lunch, casual dining including gourmet burgers in the Abbey Bar and ‘steak on the stone’ in addition to seafood specials at the Market House Restaurant, all within the Abbey Hotel. Donegal town was recently awarded Foodie Destination in Ireland.

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The Abbey Hotel is part of Donegal Hotel Collection, check out special offers online www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com.

The Bayview Hotel is a coastal haven of relaxation standing proudly in one of Northern Ireland’s most stunning settings overlooking the ever-changing Atlantic Ocean in the picturesque harbour village of Portballintrae, one mile from Bushmills on the famous North Antrim Coast Road.

It features 25 luxurious bedrooms and junior suites, each designed with your comfort in mind and with everything you need to ensure a relaxing stay, including large, comfortable beds, rain-fall showers, in-room safes, hairdryer, ironing facilities, high speed wi-fi, interactive television, mini fridge and hospitality tray with Nespresso coffee machine.

The self-contained seaside cottage is the perfect residence for families to enjoy a little coastal seclusion.

The Porthole Restaurant and Bar is a bright, relaxing and pleasant space in which to unwind after a day of excursions and enjoy a delicious meal and drinks with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean meeting the stunningly rugged North Antrim coastline.

Experience ultimate relaxation with a luxury treatment to help revitalise your senses.

An avalanche of culture, myth and legend is waiting to be discovered and the Bayview Hotel is an ideal base for visiting the Giant’s Causeway, Old Bushmills Distillery, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, Rathlin Island and the beautiful Glens of Antrim. The Causeway Coast is the perfect location for those who enjoy coastal activities such as surfing, paddle boarding, coasteering and fishing tours.

For golfing enthusiasts there are many world class courses nearby including Royal Portrush, Portstewart, Bushfoot, Castlerock, Ballycastle and Galgorm Castle.

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See www.bayviewhotelni.com for further information.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

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Family Life | 49

RIGHTS,RIOTS ANDWRONGSAT BOGSIDEMUSEUM

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he Museum of Free Derry is an award-winning multi-media museum in the heart of Derry’s historic Bogside.

It tells the story of events in the city in the late 1960s and early 1970s – the struggle for civil rights, the Battle of the Bogside and the descent into conflict.

The civil rights movement in Ireland has its deepest roots in Derry. It was here on October 5, 1968, that the issue of civil rights in the north first came to the attention of the world when members of the RUC attacked a peaceful demonstration in Duke Street. And it was in Derry that the first ‘no go’ area was declared in January 1969, when the defiant slogan ‘You Are Now Entering Free Derry’ appeared on a gable wall in the Bogside.

The museum also tells the story of Bloody Sunday, the day when 14 unarmed civilians were killed and 17 injured by members of the Parachute Regiment on the streets of the Bogside. It tells the story of how the people of the city, led by the

The museum charts the birth of the civil rights movement

The museum is a Bogside landmark families of the victims, overcame the injustice and wrote a new chapter in the history of civil rights, which has become a source of international inspiration.

The museum tells the story of how a largely working-class community rose up to overcome years of oppression. By boldly taking on the might of the state, they were demanding a different world where justice,

equality and freedom were the entitlement of all. In the museum rests part of their legacy. Their epitaph is the continuing struggle for democracy. The museum is dedicated to all who have struggled and suffered for civil rights everywhere, and who will do so in the future.

In the centre of the killing zone from Bloody Sunday, with staff who lost loved ones on that terrible day, the Museum of Free Derry is one of the most popular heritage and visitor attractions in the north of Ireland and a destination for all those interested in struggles for equality, freedom and justice.

The Museum of Free Derry is a not-forprofit social economy enterprise set up by the Bloody Sunday Trust.

Recent visitor reviews of the Museum of Free Derry: “...really informative and the exhibitions fascinating. The staff were all very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions. Definitely a must see...”

“Moving, emotional, informative – I could go on but just go see for yourself.”

“The reality of the events of Bloody Sunday are brought to you up close and personal. The stories are heartbreaking but need to be read.”

“A wonderful display and memorial to the Bloody Sunday massacre. It is one of the best museums I have seen.”

50 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020 ADVERTISING FEATURE

Enjoythe goodlifeat

Midlands ParkHotel

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t Midlands Park Hotel, caring for our guest is at the heart of everything we do. To us, this means treating every single aspect of the guest experience with exceptional care and consideration. It means taking care of the big things and the little things. Whether for play, work or relaxation, this ethos of care

creates the space for you, our guest, to savour the experience and delight in moments of real joy here at Midlands Park Hotel.

When you visit Midlands Park Hotel we want you to truly enjoy these experiences; the clinking of glasses at a family celebration, the reunion with friends you haven’t seen for far too long, a blissful wedding day or simply the moment of calm as you relax into your freshly laundered sheets.

Visit www.midlandsparkhotel.com for Halloween festivities right at the heart of Portlaoise Town with spooky fun, relaxation, and frighteningly good food. While staying at Midlands Park Hotel you can be sure that you will be staying in a centrally located, family-friendly hotel for your midterm Halloween family break.

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Midtermfunbeginsat ClaytonHotelCardiffLane Planning an Autumn or midterm break? Stay at the 4 star Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane in Dublin’s smart new docklands, right next to the iconic Bord Gais Energy Theatre.

One of the city’s largest hotels with 304 bedrooms, the Clayton Cardiff Lane has lots of family friendly facilities, including a 22m pool, a toddler’s pool and gym. Take extra time out and book a treatment in the hotel’s Treatment rooms.

There are attractions galore within easy walking distance and if you want to go farther afield, the nearest Luas stop is nearby. If you’re there for halloween, don’t miss the free workshop at the Science Gallery next to Trinity College on October 28 and of course, a trip to Dublin Zoo or Tayto Park is a must.

Enjoy one of the best breakfasts in Dublin in the spacious Stir Restaurant and you can even have a lie in with breakfast served up to 11am at weekends. There’s a choice of menus, including a special children’s menu, or why

not book the Family Pizza Package offer which includes two large pizzas, wine, soft drink, ice cream and a full Irish buffet breakfast the following morning.

Family rooms are spacious and comfortable, with cots available and all the amenities you’d expect from a 4 star hotel. You can also book interconnecting rooms at a discounted rate.

With all the watersports fun in Grand Canal Dock where the Viking Splash Tours enter the water, and massive attractions like the Epic centre and Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship just a stroll across the fabulous Samuel Beckett Bridge – an attraction worth seeing in itself – the Clayton Cardiff Lane is the perfect base for your next city break.

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See www.claytonhotelcardifflane. com, call 00353 1643 9500 or email info.cardifflane@claytonhotels.com to start planning your trip.

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Family Life | 51

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LoughErneResort tapsintothe

scienceofsmellwithitsscent-sational autumnofferings

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ecognising autumn as a season abundant with recognisable scents and aromas, 5-star Lough Erne Resort has introduced three new autumn inspired packages.

Afternoon Tea at Lough Erne Resort

Autumn Afternoon Tea

The Afternoon Tea is served in charming Belleek Pottery China and the presentation will see autumnal shades visible across a variety of treats, including the red velvet chocolate cake, maple orange bonbon, apple and raisin scones, and rum and banoffee mousse.

From September 21, 2020, both residents and non-residents can enjoy this autumn indulgence daily from 1pm to 3.30pm for £25pp.

Autumn Equinox Wellness Escape

Lough Erne Resort is inviting guests to experience an Autumn Equinox Wellness Escape with a series of stimulating sensory experiences. From £205pps,

guests can discover their own personal balance with an overnight stay in a stunning lakeview room, spa treatments, a rejuvenating yoga class and a seasonal dining experience in The Experience a Catalina Restaurant.

Wellness Escape

Autumn menu at The Catalina Restaurant

Executive Head Chef Noel McMeel and his culinary team are proud to introduce Lough Erne Resort’s new autumn menus in the 3 AA Rosette Catalina Restaurant.

The Autumn Catalina menu will include Warm Whiskey-Infused and Cured Salmon, Dill Emulsion & Toonsbridge Trout Roe, Autumnal Comber Potato Soup with Ballylisk Cheese and Pomme Soufflé and much more…

Warm WhiskeyInfused and Cured Salmon, Dill Emulsion & Toonsbridge Trout Roe

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For bookings and enquiries regarding the new packages, please phone 028 6632 3230 or email info@lougherneresort.com.

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Theheartofthenorth-westat

McGettigan’sHotel

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njoy an autumn/ winter break at the newly refurbished McGettigan’s Hotel, located on Main Street, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.

Its 82 guest rooms, all newly refurbished in early 2020, offer modern luxury in the heart of Letterkenny. Each room is equipped with all of the modern conveniences you would expect to see from any premier quality hotel including air conditioning and plasma TVs. The food is popular and locally sourced and can be enjoyed in the awardwinning Warehouse Bar + Kitchen, making McGettigan’s Hotel the ideal base for a getaway in Donegal.

Letterkenny is at the heart of the north-west and offers a unique experience for every type of visitor.

Base yourself at McGettigan’s Hotel, in Donegal’s largest town, to combine the best urban experience with a Wild Atlantic Way adventure. Letterkenny offers a large selection of restaurants, pubs, nightclubs and an array of indoor and outdoor activities. We have something to suit all types of visitors

from families, to young couples, groups, outdoor enthusiasts or those simply looking to escape and unwind for a few days.

There are so many reasons why Donegal topped National Geographic Traveller’s Cool List for 2017 – Blue Flag beaches, championship golf courses, charismatic people, stunning scenery and unrivalled hospitality, all a short drive from McGettigan’s Hotel.

Now is the time to make the trip and discover it for yourself, basing yourself at McGettigan’s Hotel.

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To book, contact t: 00353 74912 2066, e: info@mcgettiganshotel.com, w: www.mcgettiganshotel.com

52 | Family Life

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

9ways toaddfuntoautumndays Image: Gabby Orcutt on Unsplash

Dry, crispy leaves underfoot, undiscovered conker trees, blackberries and damsons to find – what’s not to love about being outdoors in autumn! Here are our favourite things to do with the kids, outdoors and back home...

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Once they’ve tired of running and jumping through heaps of leaves, gather a selection of shapes and colours – enough fun in itself for young children. There are various ways of preserving leaves, from the old fashioned way of pressing them under heavy books to the longer lasting waxed paper method. Wait for a rainy day and set to work decorating the leaves using metallic sharpies. String them together for a pretty window garland.

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Pine cones are another autumn bounty that can be used to decorate home-made wreaths, transformed into animals with the addition of pipe cleaners, or turned into bird feeders.

Get them craft ready by soaking for 15 minutes in water with white vinegar. Dry overnight then bake in the oven at a low heat for a few hours. The result will be beautiful, bug free, open, dry gleaming cones.

3

Creative kids enjoy painting stones and they can spend ages absorbed in searching for the right ones and not even realise they’re getting all that fresh air.

Acrylic paints give the best results. They can paint slogans too and give them as gifts to friends or attach magnets to the back for fridge art.

4

Halloween is just around the corner – time to get carving those pumpkins.

Obviously this is a job for older kids or grown-ups but younger children can have fun drawing the shapes on the pumpkin for you to cut out.

5

Have an evening out – in the garden.

Get the firepit lit and bring out blankets to snuggle under. Toast marshmallows and make ‘Smores, tell stories or go the whole hog and set up an outdoor cinema. If you think you’ll get lots of use out of this, it may be worth investing a few hundred pounds in a portable projector which is wifi and bluetooth enabled so that you can stream the movie of your choice. Ben Q portable projectors get good reviews. See www.benq.com for advice on getting set up.

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Skating has taken off big style this year. Dust down the quads, dig out the skateboards, bikes and scooters and have some wheeled fun.

Autumn is a busy season for wildlife with squirrels gathering nuts, hedgehogs eating their fill before hibernation and birds beginning their winter migrations. See www. ulsterwildlife.org for details of red squirrel support groups in your area and you’ll get an idea of the best places to go for a chance to spot some of these furry creatures. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times. Kids can help our under threat hedgehogs by building a hedgehog house in your garden. Don’t leave milk or bread out for them – meaty catfood is best.

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Take a day trip to Belfast Zoo, one of the open farms across the country or a wildlife centred venue like Exploris aquarium in Portaferry or Castle Espie WWT near Comber – both are in stunning settings. Children love getting up close to the animals and are guaranteed a fun day out.

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If you’re fortunate enough to live near the coast, there’s still plenty of fun days to be had at the beach, rockpooling, building sandcastles, paddling and chasing down dunes. On a windy day, bring a kite for extra fun.

Movienights Feeding the geese at Castle Espie WWT

On milder nights, take family movie time outdoors.

Fence and furniture painted in the Cuprinol Garden shades range. Colours: Wild Thyme, Fresh Rosemary and Dusky Gem, Lavender. Cuprinol Garden Shades, 2.5L, £29.76, www.cuprinol.co.uk

25 September 2020 | Belfast Telegraph

Dinealfresco withTheGreat OutdoorsBBQCo

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his summer has seen more people than ever filling the air with mouth-watering aromas as they took to the barbecue to spice up meal-times during the lockdown and then celebrate being able to see family and friends again when it was lifted.

Whatever the autumn weather, there are often opportunities to enjoy cooking or dining al fresco right through the season. Perhaps you missed out this year and want to plan ahead for spring and summer 21.

One family’s love of outdoor cooking has seen their company become a market leader in the barbecuing world.

Roger and Emma Allen, of The Great Outdoors BBQ Co, have been helping Northern Ireland families make the most of al fresco dining since 2017.

They stock everything from barbecues for a camping weekend to pizza ovens right through to commercial

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cookers at their Moira showroom.

Among the many brands available for all styles, tastes and budgets is Heston Blumenthal’s Everdure range of barbecues for great outdoor cooking.

Foodies can also choose from the exciting Kamado range (Kamado Joe, Monolith and Primo) whose ovens can smoke, bake and sear.

Pizza ovens are huge and perfect for those family get togethers. The Great Outdoors is the main dealer in Ireland for the top quality, Italian built Alfa wood-fired oven range. Choose from a one pizza oven for the family to the seven pizza oven for the catering trade.

They also hire out Alfa ovens for large parties and restaurants and have an extensive commercial section, with demonstrations of respected brands such as ROASTER ovens and Grizzly Ovens.

Fans of the latest trend for wood pellet smokers are in good hands with the Traeger range, which has been operating for 30 years in the USA. Traeger’s 6-in-1 versatility means you can grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise and barbecue. From baby back ribs to wood-fired pizza, smoky mac and cheese and even homemade apple pie, anything you can cook up in your head, you can cook up on your Traeger.

Family Life | 53

For those who love the convenience of gas, there’s a wealth of options to choose from including Napoleon barbecues, which are particularly popular for outdoor kitchens where a built in gas barbecue is a must.

In an exciting new addition to The Great Outdoors BBQ Co, Roger and Emma have converted an old barn on their property at 89 Lurgan Road, Magheralin, into a 40 seater barbecue restaurant with a covered outdoor seating area.

GO BBQ Barn is open for private corporate events, team building days or even a family celebration - and the odd barbecue class. “The theme we are aiming for is rustic and very casual,” says Roger. “We want people to have an amazing experience of live fire cooking. We aim to entertain, inspire and educate. Also our friends have an amazing clay pigeon shooting club 1.5 miles away to work in conjunction with us to give people a full day’s activity.”

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For further information, visit gobbqco.com or call into Great Outdoors BBQ Co, 89 Lurgan Road, Magheralin; email sales@gobbqco.com or call 07789 430979 or 07740 393852.@gobbqco Twitter & Instagram

54 | Family Life

Enjoyyour gardenfor longer

Belfast Telegraph | 25 September 2020

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Rob Sheahan from Unsplash

ich colours dominate in the garden this month, with rudbeckias bringing a punch of gold and orange to borders and hylotelephiums delighting both gardeners and insects with their beautiful bronzed pink flowerheads. Those heathers and acers that were nondescript in summer are suddenly more vibrant.

Keep borders looking their best with regular deadheading as dahlias and roses go over. Resist the urge to go crazy with the pruners though as many plants will perform better next year if they’re allowed to die back naturally. You’ll also provide much needed shelter for wildlife by letting things take their natural course.

This is also prime time for thinking ahead to spring and stocking up on bulbs.

Crocuses, snowdrops and daffodils can go into the ground any time now but hold back on planting tulips until November.

Don’t forgo the pleasure of a splash of colour through winter though. Pansies, violas and cyclamen are among many plants

that will keep our gardens looking cheery until those first snowdrops begin to peep through the soil in January.

Autumn is harvest time and the apples and pears are ripening nicely while onions and garlic will be ready to harvest once the foliage begins to yellow or wilt. If you missed out on growing fruit and veg this year and want to give it a go next year, begin clearing a space for raised beds now and you’ll be all set come spring time.

Cover it with a layer of mulch to keep weeds at bay.

Rake up those fallen leaves and add them to your compost or save them for leaf mulch or leaf mould.

Finally, get the most out of your garden by continuing to relax and enjoy it. Last weekend’s sunshine may seem a lifetime ago but was a timely reminder that autumn often surprises us with warm, sunny days.

A blanket, a hot drink and a firepit should ensure hours enjoying your great outdoors for a few weeks yet.