Female Focus Magazine December 2021

Dep. Legal A-917-1993

E FR E

DECEMBER 2021

Female Focus Publications serving the English speaking community throughout the Costa Blanca since 1993

Wishing you a Merry Christmas from the Female Focus Publications Team

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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YOUR FIRST TELESCOPE FOR ASTRONOMY Mention astronomy to anyone and probably the first thing they think of is someone looking through a telescope up into the heavens. Like most cliches, this is probably true, no one ever forgets the first time they are shown the Moon in real detail, or the rings of Saturn or a star cluster, I could go on.

This should be great for us amateur astronomers, more people getting hooked on our hobby, unfortunately, it often doesn't work like that. The biggest reason, as I mentioned last month is that there are some really poor instruments out there, and often these are the ones most people will see in the big stores.

Over the next few months I'll attempt to cut through a lot of the technobabble and pitfalls and give some guidance to anyone who wants to see the wonders of the universe for themselves.

The first thing I have to do is to manage your expectations.

Astronomy has been transformed in recent years by digital photography, quite normal amateurs can take photographs that are better than the best professional ones of thirty years ago. This has produced a rash of fantastic pictures with detail and colour that our eyes will never see. No matter how good a telescope is, what we see looking through it is different to the pictures.

So, what's the point of looking? It's because it's a real experience, actually looking at Jupiter is as different from looking at a photo of it, as actually going on holiday is from reading a guide book.

There's also lots of real science you can do if you want to, but I won't bore you with all that for now, I'm assuming you just want to see things for yourself.

How much does it cost to buy a proper telescope?Obviously there's no upper limit, but the lower limit for something usable is around 200 Euros, later I'll explain what you could get for that and what you'll get if you pay more.

Two hundred isn't a lot to pay for something that should last a

lifetime in a hobby, but it isn't pocket money either, not for most people, so what would you actually be able to see? Obviously the Moon would be the first thing to look at, and on a clear night it can be astounding, it's almost as though you are hovering above, looking at the mountains and craters, peering into the shadows, looking at the area where Neil Armstrong first put a human foot on another world. You'll want to see the other planets, Jupiter, Saturn and Mars are great, there's the Nebula in Orion where stars are being born, double stars, clusters, you get the idea.

What's the catch with all this? Well, you can't just buy a telescope, plonk it down and hope to find what you want in the sky, there's a learning curve to all this, it's not hard, lots of very young people do it, but it is necessary. You also need to understand what you are buying, a telescope is actually three equally important parts, the optical tube, the mount and the stand.

Next month I'll continue with why each bit matters, the different types of telescope, and suggest a way to save a wad of money when you start.

The picture this month is Isaac Newton's first telescope, a thing of beauty.

Clear skies to you all.

Charles Oates,

● To find out more about observing and astronomy, email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com.

CROSSWORD Across 1 Jagged mountain range (6) 5 Athens is ruined - quick! (6) 8 Main vessel (8) 9 Push a pawn (4) 10 UNCLE's Napoleon --- (4) 12 Kind of potato (5) 13 Get to know (5) 14 Set of changes (4) 16 Prescribed amount (4) 17 Former Egyptian President --Mubarak (5) 18 Prepares for publication (5) 20 Potential measure (4) 22 Observed (4) 23 Accordance with the rules (8) 25 Gazes fixedly (6) 26 Free from liability (6) Down 2 Ice house (5) 3 Soft toy (3,4) 4 Exclamation of surprise (3) 5 Joy (9) 6 Land between Honolulu and Sydney (5) 7 Turning green? (7) 11 Tub additives blast hats off (4,5) 15 Rudimentary component (7) 16 Communicate (7) 19 Hidden (5) 21 Abate (3,2) 24 "Turn to the right!" (3) See back pages for answers

up

Vega Baja Astronomy Gro

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Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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www.femalefocusonline.com This year has seen many challenges and we can only hope that 2022 will be an easier one for everyone. We have all had our eyes opened and had to adapt but hopefully the worse is over and we are all better equipped to move forward.

The Female Focus team would like to say a massive thank you to our advertisers, contributors and readers for your continued support. We hope you have a happy, peaceful Christmas making wonderful memories. This past year has taught me these are much more important than anything and I intend to make many new ones in the coming year.

We are lucky to be spending Christmas with our grandchildren which always makes this time of year more magical.

However you are spending it, I hope you are surrounded by love and happiness.

Until next time, take care, Lesley Pick up your next issue on 4 January.

Deadlines: Editorial & Advertising - 12 noon - 15 December.

Female Focus covering from Alicante North and the QFocus Magazine covering the Alicante South region.

To discuss your advertising needs with your local representative contact:-

Gandía to Jávea Roddy 688 815 405 or 96 575 6833 roddy@femalefocusonline.com

Finestrat to Moraira Alan 689 358 232 alan@femalefocusonline.com

Female Focus Publications are available from over 1000 distribution points throughout the Costa Blanca, making us the largest Free English language magazine publishers by far!

Like and Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FemaleFocus/ Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055 editor@femalefocusonline.com advertising@femalefocusonline.com classifieds@femalefocusonline.com www.femalefocusonline.com

Female Focus is proud to have been voted the third most popular magazine worldwide in the independent Expat Survey Consumer Awards

Female Focus Publications are supporters of www.aldeasinfantiles.es

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Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show is back Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Ho Ho Ho to jolly good times ahead.

Having been out of action for a while, it really does feel like Christmas at GM Promotions HQ!

As life is moving forwards again, so can we! We are delighted that 2022 is our year to burst back into action.

The one and only SuperCASAfragilistic Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show is BACK and we are now working on our 11th edition for Friday 6 & Saturday 7 May 2022!

Our visitors have let us know how much they have missed the event so Costa Blanca North ARE YOU READY? GM Promotions are now planting the seeds getting ready for our next international Homes Gardens & LIFESTYLE Show with an additional dedicated WELLBEING ZONE to bloom back into action once again at our prestigious venue The 5* SH Villa Gadea Hotel in Altea.

At this “free to enter” event our fun features will all be back: the Tapas Trail, the Caricaturist, the Art Gallery/Competition, Cooking Demos & Pet Idol 2022, plus we have some new features up our sleeves. But Shhhhh don’t tell, as we are working on a Secret Gin Garden!

Our stars of the Show though, are our exhibitors and contributors - who will be on hand once again to bring you all the products, services and information you need to keep your Homes, Gardens, Lifestyle and Wellness all blooming in 2022!

New Year, New Ideas! Put the dates in your diary to come along to see, taste, try and buy at the Costa’s favourite event.

We are now calling all businesses who would like to participate and showcase products and services to RESERVE YOUR STAND NOW! Join our hugely successful event here on the Costas - the perfect platform to promote your business to thousands of visitors!

If your business is related to anything from homes, gardens, lifestyle, wellbeing/wellness & the leisure industry to fiscal and financial then this is the Show for you. Anything goes as we provide the fun and feel good factor ensuring our visitors have a truly great Show experience!

Team GM looks forward to the opportunity of working with all our existing and new clients to make this another roaring success packed with positivity for living life on the Costas!

CONTACT US NOW TO RESERVE YOUR STAND or place to feature at the wellbeing talks/demos, presentations & interactive workshops.

Contact us: email office@gmpromotions.es Tel 695 399 841 See www.gmpromotions.es FB GM Promotions FB Homes Gardens and Lifestyle Show

SUPPORT LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SPEND LOCAL

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Female Focus Magazine December 2021

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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WIN WIN WIN CHICAS AMIGAS MEET AGAIN with PC-HIGHWAY'S Charity Fundraiser

Help Support Charity Projects: Project 4 All - caring for the local homeless and 23 local families in desperate need, Karunawa - Charity Shop in Jávea, and Spread Some Sunshine – feeding hungry families in Sri Lanka.

Simply buy your 5€ lucky ticket for 5 chances to win from these local businesses: PC HIGHWAY: Calle Niza 13 in Jávea, Quicksave English supermarket: Avda del Pla 126 in Jávea, VÜ Salon: Avda del Pla in Jávea, La Plaza Salon: Avda del Pla 122 in Jávea, Father Ted's Bar: C. Pintor Rembrandt, 14 in Moraira, Food @ Moonlighters: Ctra. Moraira-Teulada, 162 in Moraira, The Codfather in Moraira.

1st prize – Brand New Samsung Tablet 10.4" from PC-HIGHWAY in Jávea, 2nd prize – Shopping voucher from Quicksave in Jávea worth 15€.

3rd prize – Sunday Lunch for 2 from Father Teds in Moraira.

The winners will be contacted by phone and announced on Facebook and other Social Media Platforms.

Prizes will be drawn on Saturday 18 December @ PC-HIGHWAY in Jávea.

Good Luck everybody and Thank You for making a difference xx

Our Chicas Amigas group met last month at Samur Restaurant in Moraira, down towards the Marina. We started outside in the sunshine with a welcome glass of cava and a catchup with friends of all the news. It is so good at last feeling a little more back to normality! We moved inside to our allocated tables for our lunch, most delicious, and yes, more conversation. Thank you so much to Lynn and her helpers, also to the very pleasant and attentive staff at Samur, for a very enjoyable afternoon. Jan Adams.

The Valleys International Bridge and Social Club

play for their annual President's cup The Jaleo Restaurant, Pedreguer was the venue on 11 November when, after a year with no bridge competitions at the Valleys International Bridge and Social Club, thirty-two members competed for the President's Cup. It was a very close competition and despite only having played together for a few weeks, the winners were Marion de Havilland and Perlie Harris. Just one point behind, the runners up were Tina Hill and John Drewery. Brenda Russell the club President presented the prizes before members sat down to a celebratory dinner. The club welcomes new members. Details about the club can be found at “Bridge at the Valleys” on the bridgewebs.com website.

all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words may be found WORD Find going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally. Answers can be found in the back of

SEARCH the magazine. Good Luck.

ADORNOS - DECORATIONS ANGEL - ANGEL ÁRBOL - TREE BELEN - NATIVITY SCENE CABALGATA - PARADE OF THE

THREE KINGS CAMPANADAS - CHIMES FLOR DE PASCUA - POINSETTIA GUIRNALDA - WREATH LUCES - LIGHTS MUÉRDAGO - MISTLETOE NAVIDAD - CHRISTMAS NIEVE - SNOW NOCHEBUENA - CHRISTMAS EVE NOCHEVIEJA - NEW YEAR'S EVE PAPÁ NOEL - FATHER

CHRISTMAS POSTALES - CARDS REGALOS - PRESENTS REYES MAGOS - WISE MEN /

THREE KINGS TURRÓN - TURRON UVAS - GRAPES VILLANCICO - CAROL

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Female Focus Magazine December 2021

LA MANCHA saffron

CLOSE TO THE SMALL TOWN OF CONSUEGRA, THE FIESTA DE LA ROSA DEL AZAFRAN CAN BE VISITED SINCE 1969. Situated on a high plateau in the shadow of Don Quixote’s windmills and blanketed in soft purple crocus flowers, this colourful festival kicks-off the region’s harvest season. A festival dedicated to all things saffron.

Festival goers can look forward to three days of activities, including musical acts, dancing in a flurry of traditional costume. As a fanfare there are cooking contests featuring saffron, and vendors serving local dishes prepared with the prized ingredient. The festivities culminate with a contest, where participants compete with each other, to see who can remove most saffron threads from the crocus flowers.

IT IS NEARLY 11 O’CLOCK. THE SUN SHINES BRIGHT FROM A CLEAR BLUE SKY. A purple glimmer lies over the crocus fields. Between precisely planted rows of flowers, local people are helping with the harvest.

Stooping men carefully pluck the delicate flowers and place them in a brown wicker basket.

short harvest season begins. It will end in the middle of November.

A crocus can grow to a height of 30cm. 6 petals protect the 3 stigmas inside the flower. It is these 2.5 to 4.5cm long stigmas that yield saffron. The crocus is sown in August and starts flowering at the end of October. This is when the

With autumnal magic, the fields of La Mancha are transformed overnight into a glorious sea of colour. The time has come at last, and the flowers must be harvested immediately. The delicate crocus flowers cannot survive the Spanish sun for long; they risk wilting. To prevent this, harvesters go out every day. Harvesting by hand is a laborious business, but so far there is no machine to do this work ‘the flowers are too delicate’.

It needs around 250,000 flowers to produce a kilo of saffron, and that’s a lot of labour.

From the field, the crocus is taken for further processing – not to a factory but to a house close to the fields.

Inside the intense smell of saffron overrides any other sensation. In the middle of the room is a long table covered with a white cloth, on which hundreds of crocus flowers are spread. Around 25 women, most of them past retirement age, are removing the three delicate red stigmas from the flowers. Petals land on the floor, they may be beautiful, but there is no further use for them.

There is a cheerful, almost family atmosphere among the women. ‘That is what it’s all about for them, they use the harvest as a pastime, to meet other villagers and swap news. They receive ‘red gold’ as payment instead of money. They can take a third of their day’s output home with them.’

While most of the women are at the table busily removing the stigmas, another woman is roasting them.

The aroma is not released until the stigmas are roasted over charcoal in a cylindrical sieve. Some say that saffron can have up to 150 different flavours: it starts sweet, with a slight hint of vanilla or caramel, but over the years, it becomes more and more powerful, like liquorice.

The last stage is packaging. Saffron is rolled into small pieces of parchment to make it easier to fill one gram and two-gram jars. Once the jars are labelled, the saffron is ready to be sold.

LA MANCHA IS ONE OF THE FEW SAFFRON PRODUCTION AREAS IN EUROPE. Though saffron crocuses grow in Italy, Iran, India, and beyond, many chefs consider La Mancha saffron to be ‘the gold standard.’

Producing saffron requires lots of labour, the main reason why this spice is by far and away the world’s priciest food by weight. Well, is it? The wholesale price of saffron ranges from around 1000€ to 5000€ per kilogram - obviously, a huge variation with price dependant on quality. The nice thing about saffron is even though it’s extremely expensive by weight, when you think about it in terms of cost per food serving, it is actually quite affordable.

Azafran, Consuegra, La Mancha. Map reference 39 2543 N, 3 2729 W. This article is an extract from ‘OUT OF SIGHT SPAIN, top 150 cool places to visit.’ by local author Harry King. 216 pages. 140 colour photos. Best value source: Book Depository.com Waterstones.com Amazon Kindle Store.

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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Fill your Christmas stocking with

Turrón de Jijona

T

urrón is the go-to sweet treat at Christmas in Spain. Not only is it absolutely delicious, it also fits nicely into the Buy Local, Shop Local ethos many of us are adopting this year.

The best turrón is made in the small town of Jijona, about 30 kilometres inland from Alicante. Turrón has many similarities to nougat as it’s made with honey, sugar, and egg whites with the addition of almonds.

Around 500 years ago, the Moors introduced almond trees to the Alicante area and this, combined with the abundance of wild flowers for bees to make honey, turned Jijona into the ideal spot for making turrón.

You can vist Jijona, the birthplace of turrón, to visit the Turrón Museum (www.museodelturron.com) for a complete history of the Christmas sweet.

Between July and November, you can also see Jijona’s most famous turrón El Lobo and 1880 being made by turrón producer Almendra y Miel.

The company was set up by the Sirvent Selva family in 1725 and is still run by the family to this very day. The factory employs around 100 people who work six months of the year from summer to winter, when the sweet is traditionally eaten.

No tour would be complete without a trip to the factory shop to stock up. Just for the record, our favourite turrón - which also happens to be the most expensive - is Turrón 1880, made with 67% almonds and 15% honey.

But we recommend you try several different types of turrón. You can get hard and soft varieties and other flavours such as coconut, chocolate, dried fruits and other nuts.

To make sure you are buying top-class turron, look for a stamp saying Jijona Denominacion de Origen y Geografica Protegida, which guarantees authenticity and quality.

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

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Female Focus Magazine December 2021

Mira Mirror on The Wall…

By Juliet Johnson of Mira Mirror at Reflections Salon, Moraira

We can’t say who’s the fairest of them all, but we can talk about Mira Mirror at Reflections in Moraira. Reflections is one of the oldest and most respected hair & beauty salons in the area, building its reputation on great service, great treatments and great value for money. Although it’s recently changed hands, the core crew has remained the same offering fabulous hair, nails, & beauty treatments. If you’ve not tried it, you really should.

The new owners at Mira Mirror bring a strong community ethic to Moraira recognising that in our expat community, it’s not only good, but is vital to help others in the community. You may have noticed that last month, 10% of the cost of certain treatments were donated to AKIRA, the well-known local dog charity.

This month, Mira Mirror is proud to partner with American Bike Rental in Moraira who will be causing a stir with their new biker babe / calendar girls’ calendar, which, as you might guess, contains tastefully shot photos of naked local ladies, with their modesty protected by clever props and photo angles. The calendar will be widely available around the area. In addition, Mira Mirror will be hosting a raffle with various prizes including a ride on the back of one of the fabulous bikes, and various treatments, all in support of less-fortunate children in need at the Gandia Preventorio.

So, to be the fairest of them all, just take a good look at your reflection in the mirror and “¡mira la diferencia!”. Easy to find Mira Mirror Salon in Moraira, the salon faces the castle at the sea front in Moraira.

Call 96 649 2415 for an appointment and support the supporters of our community.

Alternative ways to wrap your gifts this Christmas!

Look around your house and you'll discover all kinds of ways to wrap presents beautifully with less waste! The key to success, of course, is planning in advance.

Fabric, old maps and newspapers, other papers, jars, tins, pouches, cloth produce bags... Let your imagination run wild!

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It’s nearly that time of year again…

When we are dashing around preparing for the festive season, gift purchases, decorations, cooking and food shopping taking up much of our time and energy. On that job list have you booked time for your hair and beauty appointments? If not now is the time to plan some time for yourself! Many of us feel we don’t have time and constantly make ourselves the last priority, but looking after ourselves also helps those around us. A little Mimi time maybe just what the doctor ordered so give us a call or book online.

Whilst in the salon you could also browse our range of accessories, clothes and hair products for gift ideas or come and see us in the boutique at Las Brisas, Denia, a shopping trip with a friend and a spot of lunch in any of the great restaurants around us whilst looking out at the beautiful Mediterranean sea, the joys of living here!

All that rushing around preparing for the festive season means tired legs and feet so why not book a pedicure at Mimiskru which can also include a back massage in our fabulously comfortable massage chair, an extra treat for mind and body alongside all the benefits of a pedicure; not only pretty nails but an increase in circulation, exfoliation, increasing blood supply and intense moisturising.

Another great gift idea is a voucher for a hair or beauty treatment; manicure, facial, blow dry we have so many options available. Nothing quite compares to the benefits of experiencing a professional treatment in a relaxing, friendly and stress-free environment. Gift vouchers can now also be bought online and a great idea to add to your list for Santa!

Take a break and let us take care of you!

A big thankyou to all our friends and customers for supporting us in 2021. Seasons greetings and wishing you a happy, healthy 2022 from all the team at Mimiskru. ● Local 12, Edificio Caribe, Av del Pla 129, Jávea.

Tel 965 793 584. www.mimiskruhairandbeauty.com Facebook Mimiskru. See our advert on the Horoscopes page.

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Fe�a�e F���� Maga���e De�e��e� 2021

Introducing Our New Laser Engraving Machine!

If it’s made of metal the chances are that we will be able to engrave it.

Designed for both Personal and Corporate engraving, whatever the sort of metal, whether it is steel, copper, aluminum, brass, titanium, silver, or gold, we can engrave all kinds of jewellery, including rings both inside and out, as well as etching photos onto bracelets, plates or trophies and applying badges of sports clubs, logos of companies and official bodies.

We can even customise weapons, and security equipment such as handcuffs for the police or security companies, and number, name or reference industrial items, as well as engrave commemorative, tribute or obituary plates.

The Laser allows us to engrave and copy any logo and text with total accuracy and precision to the original design on any item with a work area of up to 10cm by 10cm.

Because it is easy to use, we can not only do one-off designs, but also small batches of the same design but modified each time for a different number or name. In fact, even the modification of the logo is possible each time.

There can be very light engraving, or very deep engraving. And you can have the natural metal showing, or it can be coloured black or white.

In summary, this new laser is all singing and dancing, so whatever your engraving needs, you can now come to us at Montenegros for perfect engraving every time.

So as an idea for Christmas you can buy a bracelet, watch, ring, necklace or any metal piece and have it personalised with your own message or dedication. What better way to show your loved ones what they mean to you. ● Montenegro, C/ Carlos Senti 7 and Marques de Campo 32, Denia. Tel: 965 782 023. See our advert below.

SU DO KU

Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try.

It is not a maths game at all - it is a pure logic game.

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.

Answers to puzzles at the back of the magazine

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THE NEW WAY TO AGE

Y

our body’s hormones are the internal communication system between the cells in your body, coordinating everything from your appetite, digestion, immune function, libido, and mood. When these hormones become even a fraction out of balance, it can directly impact your health and well-being.

Hormone replacement therapies are prescribed to rebalance the bodies hormones. One such, natural therapy is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).

These Bioidentical hormones are derived from plant oestrogens and are chemically identical to those produced by the human body. Oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are among those most replicated and can be administered in various ways.

Now available are personalised gels and creams manufactured at specialised pharmacies, these are especially effective as are

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tailored specifically for the individual patient.

BHRT can be used to treat men as well as women but is most frequently used to ease symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Common symptoms like hot flushes and night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep problems, concentration issues, mood swings and lack of libido can all be successfully treated. It is also used to ease symptoms of cancer treatment and to treat adrenal, insulin, thyroid disorders, osteoporosis, and fibromyalgia.

● Clinica Britannia, Ejércitos Españoles 16, 1st Floor, Calpe.

Tel 965 837 553 or 607 255 755 24 hours a day - 365 days a year.

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Female Focus Magazine December 2021

Dental detox solutions

S

ilent mouth infections can lead to chronic illness and are linked to heart attacks and breast cancer. Dr Thomas Levy – Hidden Epidemic (Medfox Publishing, 2017)

Root Canal Treatment and dental amalgams are routine dental therapy techniques.

In root canal therapy, infected nerves or pulp within the tooth leads to pain and eventual nerve death. The treatment involves removal of the pulp, sterilising the empty canal and filling the space. This diminishes the pain but, can often lead to silent, chronic infections in these teeth, and a low grade drain on the immune system. The release of bacterial toxins from infected teeth can adversely affect other areas of the body or lead to chronic sinusitis / non-specific aches and pains over years.

Amalgam fillings have been linked to neurological diseases including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Amalgams contain mercury, one of the most toxic substances on earth. Mercury vapour is leaked into the body during the entire longevity of the filling and can cross the blood-brain barrier. We know heavy metals are toxic to the body.

Thus, silent oral infections producing bacterial toxins and, the effects of amalgam fillings can have eventual health consequences. Most people are unaware of this risk and may be suffering chronic disease with the possibility of a simple resolution. The resolution may include safe removal of amalgam fillings, specialised X-Rays to determine the extent of dental infection, dental extractions as indicated and an intensive anti-oxidant regime.

Excess oxidation of biomolecules in the body causes all disease.

It is essential therefore, to minimise oxidative stress using our regime of Vi-Tox therapy (intravenous vitamin C); blood and hormone analysis; dietary review and targeted supplementation.

If you feel that your oral condition maybe affecting your health then please call for an initial dental consultation to find out if we can help. ● Please book a consultation with Dr Karen Gardner at Clinica Dental La Plaza, Jávea. Tel 96 646 1120.

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our ARIES You are intrigued by new learning experiences which are being offered to you. Without taking on too much go for it, learning new things can only add to enrich your life.

TAURUS By finishing off projects before you stop for the holidays, you will be able to enjoy your time much more without thinking about unfinished business. It also means you are able to put your energy into new things in the new year.

GEMINI Personal relationships will come into focus and you know the time has come to really think about where you want them to go.

Mutual goals or lack of them will be a big factor in your decision.

CANCER Working out if the beliefs you have held until now will mean you move away from certain people and question some ideas. Research and information from well informed people will help filter out all the misinformation and misinformed.

LEO At the end of this year make sure you can look back and not regret anything which can be fixed.

If you can't, now is the time to fix things so you can move into the new year with a clear mind and positivity for the future.

VIRGO Your aims for the future are bringing good things and people into your life.

New experiences are highlighting where you are best suited and helping you to shape your direction for the new year.

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oroscope LIBRA Now is the time to reflect on all you have achieved and all you still want to achieve. This is you plural, not you alone. The team you have around you make everything possible and together you can really celebrate how well you have worked together.

SCORPIO Disagreements need to be sorted out so you can enter the new year in harmony. You want the same thing so find a way to make it happen without the conflict.

You can then really enjoy the holidays knowing that things are settled.

SAGITTARIUS Sharing your wisdom and experiences will really help, as well as letting others know that you are on their side. The best gift you can give this year is your time and expertise.

CAPRICORN Make sure everyone is pulling their weight and not leaving it all to the rest. Some subtle boundary setting and delegation will make sure everyone knows what is expected from them.

AQUARIUS Children are the focus of your attention, be it yours or not. Trying to make this time of year special for them is your goal. It doesn't have to be in an extravagant way, just showing them you care is the most important thing for them.

PISCES Are the differences in opinion really that great that you could lose a long term friendship. If so, then that is how it has to be but try not to over react and see if there is enough middle ground to continue to enjoy all the good things you have previously shared together.

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Fe�a�e F���� Maga���e De�e��e� 2021

BOXING DAY CURRY

AS SEEN ON TV

Using leftovers from Christmas dinner to make bubble and squeak for breakfast and a Boxing Day curry is now a festive tradition for many of us. We have created this dish where any cooked meat or leftover vegetables can be added to the curry sauce to create a delicious, fragrant curry.

Recipe Ingredients 400g cooked turkey cubed/ shredded 1 garlic clove finely chopped 1 medium onion finely chopped 1 inch ginger finely chopped 1 can chopped tomatoes 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon turmeric ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon ground coriander 2 tablespoons dried methi fenugreek leaves (optional) 50ml double cream 3 chopped chillies (optional) Chopped fresh coriander to garnish Time: 30 minutes Serves: 4

- In a large saucepan heat the oil to a medium heat; once hot, add the cumin and mustard seeds and cook until they start to pop and turn a golden colour.

- Add the onion and garlic and cook for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.

- Add the fresh ginger, along with the tinned tomatoes. Mix and cook for a couple of minutes.

- Next stir in the spices, turmeric, salt, garam masala, black pepper, ground coriander, ground cumin and fresh chillies.

Cook for 1 minute. Turn the heat down to low, stirring occasionally; cover and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the sauce is rich and thick.

- Add the fenugreek leaves and the turkey. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the turkey is piping hot. Stir in the cream and mix well - Check seasoning. Garnish with coriander and serve with rice, chapattis and plain yoghurt.

Looking for Christmas stocking filler, hamper or a gift with a difference for friends and family back in the UK? Check out Curry On Cooking’s website www.curryoncooking.com, full of currylicious gift ideas from curry kits, Indian stacking lunch boxes, and spice tins to chapatti making kits!

Or how about an online tailored cookery lesson? Drop the Spice Sisters an email at keepcalm@curryoncooking.com.

Society for the Care of Animals in Need

Fashion Show - Sat 4 Dec at the Casa de Cultura El Verger

Doors Open at 1 pm, show Starts at 2pm.

Entry 5€ includes a glass of Cava.

Jewellery and Fashion Accessories, Designer Labels, Bar and Refreshments, Raffle.

Season's Greetings from the Female Focus Publications team

See how toys are made in Alicante Isn’t it magical when the toys come to life in Toy Story? Does it take you back to childhood memories when you invented stories to play with your toys? Visiting the toy-making town of Ibi and the toy museum in Dénia will be a wonderful trip down memory lane for you.

Take the family or visitors to the little town of Ibi 43 kilometres inland from Alicante alongside El Maigmó mountain. Here, the toy-making industry is still an important part of Spain’s economy.

In fact, it is so important that Ibi is rumoured to be the headquarters of the Three Kings, who deliver presents to the children on January 6. In the Plaza de los Reyes Magos in Ibi you can see a statue and fountain dedicated to these three wise men.

Just over 100 years ago, Ibi’s economy relied on farming and making ice-cream using the ice from the surrounding mountains.

Then, around 1905, a tinsmith made a tin carriage for his children and had his eureka moment. The Payá Hermanos workshop was born and by the 1930s around 500 people worked there.

One brother Raimundo Payá would buy toys on his travels and you can see this beautiful collection of tin toys in the Valencian Toy Museum (www.museojuguete.com/en/museum/) in Ibi in the former Payá factory.

By 1970 Ibi had a worldwide reputation for toy making and was home to 70 toy factories and 60 firms providing materials and services to those factories. Christmas is a delightful time of year to visit Ibi and marvel at its toy-making skills.

Further north, Dénia also played an important role in Spain’s toy industry in the 20th century. You can see its tin and wooden toys in the Toy Museum (www.denia.net/museo-del-juguete) in the old train station on the Dénia-Carcaixent line.

In the first half of the 20th century, Dénia's toy industry was popular worldwide with around 40 family-run factories producing toy vehicles, dolls and games.

You can still buy toys made in Dénia from Cayro, which has been making classic board games and toys since 1954. You can buy these at many toy shops in Spain or online from their official website.

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

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Season's Greetings from the Female Focus Publications team

Spot the 12 differences (answers in the back pages)

Season's Greetings from the Female Focus Publications team

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HELP! (I Need Somebody) HELP! (Not Just Anybody) HELP! (I Need Someone To Help) Living here in Spain is truly wonderful - until things go wrong! Maybe the boiler isn’t working, you need some legal advice, if you’re in business you need some urgent printing, your car insurance quote is too much. The answer is to find a professional, trustworthy, and legal business or tradesman (tradesperson!) to get your things fixed.

The question is: who to turn to that you can trust?

The Costa Blanca Business Association (CBBA) put simply is a business networking and referrals organisation. The CBBA currently comprises more than 20 members covering a wide range of goods and services, supplying businesses and people living here in the Costa Blanca.

It was set up approximately 10 years ago and has become a trusted and established source of businesses you can turn to and trust.

Businesses You Can Trust It’s often said for every legit tradesman there are twice as many running around in beaten up white vans, doing everything cash, totally uninsured if they break something, and not available if the job isn’t done properly.

We can’t say how true that is, but we can say, when you use a member of the CBBA, you can be assured that they are operating legally, and will stand by their work. All our members are ‘vetted’ to ensure they’re ‘in the system’ and paying taxes. In short, a CBBA member is trustworthy, professional and honest. And if things go really wrong, then we can exert pressure to make sure issues are sorted properly. So if you have any job, no matter how small or large, there’s a strong likelihood that one of our members can help!

Vist www.cbba.es to find a full list and contact details of our members.

IN BUSINESS? JOIN US! If you’re in business and would like to be considered to joining the region’s most successful referral network group, why not contact us to find out how you can enhance your business!

Members meet every 2 weeks at Restaurante Los Arcos, N332, Pedreguer. If you would like to come along as a visitor (businesses only), email info@cbba.es or visit www.cbba.es.

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Season's Greetings from the Female Focus Publications team

Spot the odd one out

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Walk Your Way Well

O

www.femalefocusonline.com

by Niamh O'Sheehan

f course I can eat that extra turkey sandwich as my belly isn't half as big as David's! I can polish off this mulled wine as I certainly have not drunk as much as Deborah! At least I'm able to walk 5km on Christmas morning and my mate John can barely crawl to the fridge. Thankfully I got a way better result in my Christmas exams than Tom. More people turned up at MY mince pie party than at Sarah's. I got way more LIKES on my Christmas Facebook photos than Jo did. (Disclaimer: All names and characters portrayed in this article are fictitious!). These types of comparisons are not unusual. But is it healthy and productive? Let's take a look at this and maybe become a little bit more aware of why we compare downwards.

Downward comparison is a defensive tendency that we use as a means of self-evaluation. When a person looks to another individual or group that they consider to be worse off than themselves in order to increase their self esteem they are making a downward comparison.

The simple truth is that most people find this type of social comparison EASIER. It makes us feel better about ourselves and can give us a confidence boost. If we constantly look at the fitter, thinner, perkier, richer, happier, younger people in our circle or on social media then we can start to feel inadequate and this might lead to all sorts of negative feelings. But there is a way to flip this on its head. Instead of wallowing in downward and negative comparisons we can set our sights higher. In doing so we may well find ourselves growing, improving and achieving rather than remaining stagnant.

Now, there's little point in trying to adjust our sights to an unrealistic benchmark. We can aspire to be as rich as Bill, as beautiful as Beyonce or as fit as Ronaldo but because that's probably unlikely it could lead to constant disappointment and subsequent development of low self-esteem.

But it is definitely beneficial to compare upwards on a realistic level. And hopefully in doing so we can reap the results of an improved performance.

Let's take our walking and fitness as an example. You have a neighbour who takes the dog out for their 3km walk religiously regardless of the weather. Be like your neighbour! You know a group of 60 somethings who have a walking group and climb hills once a month?

Join that group! You are in a STEP WhatsApp challenge group that has a 50k weekly target. But you have been invited to join a 100k step group. Do it! You hanker after the amazing photos of scenic views your Facebook friends post while they are out walking. Why not boot up and go take your own photos? Your best mate has walked the Camino Santiago. What's really stopping you? Set off. Don't just aspire to do better…..GO DO BETTER. Comparing upwards is a healthy habit that we should all introduce into our lives. Always looking at those who perform less than you is not conducive to your happiness and won't entice you to step outside your comfort zone. And, as we all know, that's where the magic happens! But always remember, nobody is truly better than you. You are only better or worse than the present existing version of yourself. That's a bit of a BIG one to swallow. But, if you let that sink in then really the only comparison that matters is to yourself. Let's be honest, the only person who can do a better job of being you is YOU! I hope you enjoyed this month's ramblings and I'd like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy, healthy and joy filled festive season full of kindness and sharing. Above all, please be kind to yourself and don't forget to Walk Your Way Well.

Adopt a Cookie was adopted, however they underestimated having a puppy and young children too and can’t meet his needs. He is the perfect pup, good with dogs and children and is house trained and well behaved. His previous adopters were heartbroken to say goodbye. Please phone 657 689 567 or email akirashelter@aol.com BALOU, crossbreed, DOB 02.10, 55cm.

Balou's owners became too old to look after him. He would love to find a home with a garden and another dog to play with and run around with. Please call 618 754 635 or visit www.apasa.eu.

Pet Trini is waiting for her forever home. Shelter open every Sunday 10am - 12pm or call Luisa 648 100 629.

Denia Cat Protection League – Aldea Felina, please visit http://www.aldeafelina.es Poor Daphne was abandoned because of a torn ligament in her back leg. No good for hunting!

She is shy at first but loves dogs, so other dogs are a must to help gain trust in people. Daphne is healthy, very playful and vaccinated. More info about Daphne or our other dogs, please contact us by email (stichtingtanamera@gmail.com) or on facebook (Tanamera Rescue).

Cassie is female GSD. 9/10 years old. She is a happy, friendly confident girl ready to go to a home of her own.

For more info please call PEPA 650 304 746 or email p.e.p.a.animalcharity@gmail.com. For information on other animals waiting for their forever homes please visit www.pepaspain.com.

This is Atila, found in June in Benidorm very thin and with injuries but is making a good recovery.

He deserves a caring forever home. Please if you can help him or any of our other animals contact 685 524 049 or visit Benidorm Animal Shelter Mon-Fri 10am to 1pm.

Meet Our Horses! Join us on Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings at APAC Rescue Horses to see the horses and help support us. Everyone Welcome. For more information email apacprotectora@gmail.com, visit www.apac-cv.com or Facebook: Apac Rescue Horses.

Canela is a big character in a mini Podenco body.

She gives all the boys the run around and stands her ground with the biggest of them. Sociable, cheerful, loving and comical she is around 12 months or less. She has no health issues and has already been sterilised. Please contact apropego@gmail.com or call 654 616 043.

www.femalefocusonline.com

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The Three Wise Men are on their way…

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by Rhona Wells - rhonawells@hotmail.com

After Christmas and New Year, the Spanish have a special family day to look forward to, the celebration of the arrival of the Reyes Magos, the Three Wise Men from the East, who followed a star, bearing gifts for the baby Jesus.

In Spain, the Feast of the Epiphany or the Three Kings’ Day is a major celebration of the adoration of baby Jesus by the Three Wise Men, also known as the Magi, or the Three Kings. Named as Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar, they are believed to have travelled to present baby Jesus with the three symbolic gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. They are said to have ridden on a horse, a camel and an elephant. By all accounts, the universal favourite is Balthazar, perceived as the most exotic.

The feast is celebrated all over the Christian world, frequently marked by a special mass. The fact the Three Wise Men brought gifts to Jesus also established the tradition of exchanging gifts.

Over the years, the tradition of Father Christmas, or Saint Nicholas, emerged and began to find favour in some countries. To a great extent the religious significance began to be overlooked but the Spanish custom of the gifts being brought by the Three Kings continued, staying true to religious antecedents.

Celebrations marking the arrival of the biblical wise men to Bethlehem begin on the 5th of January. Since the 19th century, Spanish towns and cities have put on parades to mark the occasion. There are often floats with effigies of each of the Three Wise Men in the parade, sometimes played by local dignitaries.

These are big, colourful parades that make their way through the main streets of towns, with those on board the floats throwing handfuls of sweets to the crowds below. In port towns, such as Jávea, the Three Wise Men usually arrive by boat, creating extra excitement for the children. These are generally fun, light-hearted parades, in contrast to some of the other, more religious, Semana Santa events.

Spanish children are encouraged to get to bed early to make sure they don’t miss the Wise Men bearing gifts. Custom dictates that they leave their best pair of shoes, sparkling clean, outside their bedroom doors; snacks are left for the kings and their camels. Of course, nobody wants to be one of the “naughty” children who end up with sweet ‘coal’ in their shoes instead of gifts.

The 6th (always a bank holiday) is a real family day, with everyone coming together to watch the children unwrapping their presents.

The day wouldn’t be complete without the traditional Roscón de Reyes, a sweet circular bread with sugar and dried fruits on top, made extra special in the Valencia region with the addition of orange flower water.

A tiny model of a king or queen is hidden inside, and whoever finds this “treasure” will become king or queen for the day.

Covid restrictions permitting, the Three Wise Men will arrive in the Port of Jávea on the 5th January 2022. All local towns are aiming to celebrate.

Please consult your local tourist information offices for updates.

Montgó Chorale Christmas Concert

Montgó Chorale will be presenting their traditional Christmas concert at the Loreto Church (also known as the Fishermen’s Church) in Jávea Port at 5pm on Saturday 11 December.

Under the baton of Director Aileen Lightfoot, the choir will be singing many traditional and wellloved carols, some with audience participation, as well as other pieces such as Vivaldi´s Domine Fili Unigenite and the beautiful Benedictus by Gounod.

Doors open at 4:30pm. It is important to note that there is limited seating and no standing allowed, due to Covid Safety requirements. It is also mandatory to wear masks.

There will be a retiring collection in aid of Caritas, the church’s charity that does such important and worthwhile work supporting local families in need.

For further information, please contact Sally Merrett by email at montgochorale@gmail.com.

Fe�a�e F���� Maga���e De�e��e� 2021

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Santa Claus lives on the Costa Blanca!

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www.femalefocusonline.com

hilst children up and down the land are busy writing to Santa in the North Pole, those in the know are sending their messages to the real birthplace of that famous man in red with the flowing white beard - Alicante.

The origin of Santa Claus is San Nicolás de Bari, Alicante’s patron saint, whose feast day is December 6. Many Europeans including the Dutch, Germans, Polish and Ukrainians celebrate this feast day when the children receive presents.

San Nicolás or Saint Nicholas travelled throughout the Mediterranean lands and Asia preaching the gospel. At this time Spain was an important empire, dominating much of central Europe and leaving many of its customs as its legacy.

Tradition says that San Nicolás sailed from Alicante to the Netherlands on a steamboat full of oranges from Alicante and other gifts for the children. Every year, they eagerly waited for the boat and San Nicolás - or Sinterklaas as they called him - to arrive in port.

Every year he picks a different port in the Netherlands so as many children as possible get to see him.

Visit Santa in Alicante It’s no wonder, therefore, that Alicante pulls out all the stops to celebrate Christmas.

Children can visit Santa and watch the elves making Christmas gifts in the House of Santa Claus (Casa de Santa Claus) in Alicante throughout December.

The city also puts up a magnificent belén or Christmas crib and has an ice-skating rink to create a very festive air. You can also visit the Museo de Belenes in Alicante (www.alicanteturismo.com/museode-belenes) to see a vast display of nativity figures and Christmas scenes.

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

START YOUR DAY WITH A

GREAT NIGHT’S SLEEP

Quality Beds & Linen from Budget to Luxury

Where dreams begin C.C. Biblos Local 8 Ctra. Calpe-Moraira, Los Pinos 1K (Coast Road) Calpe Showroom Hours 10am-5pm Mon-Fri 10am-1:30pm Sat

VISIT ONLINE or IN PERSON

Email: info@thebedcentre.com

www.thebedcentre.com Tel: 965 836 814 695 708 101 FREE DELIVERY Gandia to Alicante

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WINETASTING GROUP IN MORAIRA

The wine tasting group of Moraira-Teulada U3A was treated to a presentation from Domingo and Franco of Bodegas Corcovo from Valdepeñas.

Domingo gave us facts about grape varieties, colour, aroma and flavours, Franco extolled each wine’s virtues, bursting with enthusiasm. He so clearly loves his wines! We tasted two whites and three reds, and there was lively discussion around each table on preferences. It was a very enjoyable evening, held at Sabores 2 restaurant in Moraira, and I suspect that Domingo left with a very empty van! Our thanks to Pat and Brian, Lui and his staff, and of course to Franco and Domingo.

Report by Jan Adams.

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

SPEND LOCAL SHOP LOCAL SUPPORT LOCAL

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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Making the right choice

continued on next page

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It’s very easy to see why artificial grass is becoming so popular now, the benefits alone are massive, the permanent green space, the no need to water, mow Article supplied by Lee Charlesworth or maintain like a standard lawn. The benefits go even deeper when you really examine them, especially when you bear in mind issues like caring for the environment.

Choosing where you buy your artificial grass from and the quality of those available grass products is wide, varied and potentially still full of pitfalls. So here is some good guidance for you. Our grass is manufactured in Spain, to all European safety standards, the manufacturing plants are here in Spain where working standards are far better than other locations around the world. It’s 100% recyclable and 100% non-toxic along with lots of other benefits.

We only give our clients the best choices for artificial grass, the most resilient and strong grasses pass our standards meaning our clients don’t have to guess if they are getting a great product, they know.

Many of our clients think that other grass products are cheaper than our grass, but there are several major factors to think about. If looking at grass, do you really know where the grass is manufactured.

www.femalefocusonline.com

Female Focus Magazine December 2021 Page 27 A lot of companies say their grass is from Spain, sometimes this isn’t true, it may be from Spain, but the true meaning is it is distributed from Spain, but not manufactured in Spain.

The other thing to bear in mind if considering buying grass at a cheaper cost is the quality of the grass product, the cost of all the other bits you require to do the job, such as glue, joining tape.

These companies supply smaller quantities of grass, meaning you have to buy more glue, more joining tape, and these are not cheap from these types of suppliers.

Our grass prices are very competitive especially when you are getting a higher quality grass from a professional and experienced installer, delivered to your door in 4m and 2m wide, with lengths up to 25 linear mts. So 100m2 without a join.

We have 16 years of installing experience and as we have a landscape background, we have actually created a lot of ways in which best to install grass, some of which other companies simply don’t do. So, if you think you are getting a like for like quote, read the details. Many of our customers say to us, oh you did a lot more work than I thought you would. That’s because we do a proper job that we expect to last for years.

If you would like more information go and have a look at our website, www.artificial-grass-spain.com ● For more information please give us a call on 696 283 704, or visit www.artificial-grass-spain.com

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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Two Amata Christmas Fairs with original Craft work

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re you looking for really nice and original presents for the people who matter to you?

Then why not visit the Craft Fairs that Amata will be holding in Altea (3, 4 and 5 December) and Jávea (6, 7 and 8 December). Real craft fairs run by real craft people who sell only what they make themselves. They can even make something specially for you, if you can’t find what you are looking for!

Altea: 3-5 December

Altea is known as a very artistic town with lots of resident artists and a really lovely old town, but the fair will be held in the modern part of town, in front of the Town Hall (parallel to the main road N332 but 100 yards inland). Some 30 craft people will gather there with all sorts of original work. Pottery, glasswork, wooden and soft toys, leather, design jewellery and all the other special items visitors to an Amata fair have come to expect. And of course the typical delicacies of Christmas time, cheeses and sausages and even a stall with sweet and savoury pancakes.

For the kids there will be workshops, soap bubble shows, puppet shows, table games and a small Ferris wheel. On Saturday at 1 o'clock the choir of U3A Calpe will come and sing Christmas carols and every day a South-American guitarist will enliven the fair with well known songs.

The fair starts on Friday 3 December at 6pm and lasts until Sunday evening. Opening times from 11am until 9pm (the fair doesn't close at midday); on Sunday they will close a bit earlier. And parking should not be a problem, because there is a big underground parking under the square.

Jávea Port: 6-8 December

The next day of the same long weekend (both 6 and the 8 December are Bank Holidays in Spain!) Amata will be in the Port of Jávea. In a beautiful setting on the sea side promenade some twenty stalls will be set up around an enormous Christmas tree. Every stall is offering something different and, as in Altea, all participants are real craft people, who bring their tools along so they can make small changes or personalise a chosen item, and can even accept special orders if you don't find what you are looking for. Some artisans will be at work in their stalls, so you can see with how much love and patience every item is made.

This fair opens on the Monday morning, 6 December, and the opening times for the three days are from 11am continuously until 8pm, although on Wednesday they close a bit earlier.

General information about the fairs that Amata organises can be found on the Amata website (www.amata.es - also in English), or you can ring 639 979 678 and talk - in English - to Elvira. Photographs of the last fairs (in 2019!) can be seen at http://www.amata.es/Altea-2019.html and http://www.amata.es/JaveaDiciembre-2019.html. Last minute changes (e.g. in case of bad weather) will be anounced on Facebook and Instagram (Amigos de Amata).

Come to the fair and see for yourself! And if you have other plans or live too far away, you can have a look at the virtual craft village http://www.puebloartesano.es, created by Amata so you can see the artisans busy in their workshops, buy their work in shops on line or virtual fairs and even follow small tutorials, at any moment and wherever you live!

U3A MARINA BAIXA BETTER LATE THAN NEVER

Finally, after 3 date changes, U3A Marina Baixa were able to hold their monthly meeting.

Seventy members attended and for the first time in a very long time there were no restrictions regarding seating at the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi. Masks were still mandatory but that rule continues to be for everyone’s benefit.

At the end of the meeting Kath Bailey, Secretary, entertained everyone with her very amusing anecdotes from her nursing career. She certainly had some tales to tell! After the meeting 20 members enjoyed lunch at Miguel's Restaurant in La Nucía.

The next Wine and Dine meal will be an evening meal at the Kaktus Hotel, Albir on 15 December.

On Monday 20 December the Strollers will be meeting for a walk to El Faro, the lighthouse in Albir, to be followed by a picnic.

This has become a traditional pre-Christmas get together when everyone brings a contribution to the picnic. Let's hope the weather is kind to them.

A new Computer and Smart Phone group has been set up and is proving to be very popular with 30 members participating, some of whom are in their 80s and still keen to continue learning new skills.

Bookings are being taken for the 6 day trip to Extremadura 21 – 26 March. For further details please contact Margaret or Malcolm Hamer 602 293 642/604 537 275.

Due to there being no general meeting in October there will be a further meeting before Christmas on 13 December. This will also be the closing date for nominations for the 2022 Committee.

The Annual General Meeting will take place on Monday 24 January at the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi at 11am. Membership subscriptions will be due then and will remain at 10€ for the year including a monthly newsletter. If you are looking to make new friends or maybe learn a new skill in one of the many groups available why not come along and join in January. Your membership entitles you to take part in any of the activities offered

by U3A Marina Baixa. Not bad value at a euro a month! If you want to know more please visit our website – u3amarinabaixa.com or visit our Facebook page. New members are always welcome.

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We understand that it is more important now than ever to support charities.

If you’re a charity and holding a charitable event, we’ll support you by getting the word out.

Simply email information to editor@femalefocusonline.com, gemma@telitec.net or call Gemma on +34 626 939 223.

It will be shared on the charity section on Telitec's website, on Pure Gold FM (every Friday) and with us here at Female Focus and between us, we’ll help you help others.

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

There's a lot happening at KAWANA Bar Restaurante in the lead up to Christmas.

If you haven't visited us yet, then please do…

Because with 3 large screen TVs, a Pool table, a Professional Snooker table, Darts and a MiniGolf course, and with live music, great food and special events (see details below), there really is Fun for all the Family!

LUNCHTIMES: Mon–Fri 1pm-4pm Menú del Día 12.95€ CHRISTMAS FAYRE: Available Mon-Fri. Please Call to PreBook SUNDAY ROASTS: Served 1-5pm.

LIVE MUSIC: Every Friday - including Joe Wilkinson (3rd Dec) and Jim Shearer (Thursday 23rd Dec).

NEW YEAR'S EVE: Call to book your place.

SPORTS MATCHES: Showing on the 3 large screen TVs. And especially for this month, FATHER CHRISTMAS has kindly agreed to visit us here at KAWANA Bar Restaurante EVERY preChristmas SUNDAY in DECEMBER at 4pm. Don’t miss him… bring yourselves and your kids to receive lots of Seasonal Cheer and Goodwill, and maybe even a GIFT for the children. But, of course, only if they have been good! And for a daily challenge come and find the Elves and see what they have been up to.

For full details of our menu, and full details of what's going on at KAWANA visit our Facebook page @KAWANAJAVEA. Find KAWANA at Calle Cannes 29, Jávea, around the back of Jávea Tennis Club, where Bar Quo Vadis used to be. Open every day of the week apart from Tuesday.

Tel 626 728 377.

Email kawanajavea@gmail.com.

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

www.femalefocusonline.com Jávea Players: Professional actor, Pip Utton, returns at the end of January for a month to wow audiences with his unique interpretations of various famous people. This time Charlie Chaplin, Margaret Thatcher and The Hunchback of Notre Dame are in the spotlight. Pip reveals a different side of Chaplin, portrays Maggie in a non-judgemental way and gives a heart-breaking depiction of Quasimodo. For more information and exact dates see www.javeaplayers.com.

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COSTA BLANCA NORTH

Note from Benny: Christmas is at full swing. Let us make the most of this wonderful season, in case we have to return to those black Covid lockdowns in the future. Times are unpredictable at the moment, so get out there, sing and act your hearts out, entertain and help the charity money flow for those less fortunate than ourselves. A very Merry Christmas to all.

Caprice Ladies Choir: With their first two performances since last February, Caprice ladies choir were delighted to be singing in public again last month and are now working on their repertoire for their next concert in Spring 2022, featuring songs from films and shows. For more information contact Aileen on 696 514 613 or via the choir's website www.capriceladieschoir.com.

Cantãmus: The choir is looking for new members (especially sopranos) to join them for their next set of music to be performed early next year. Members are provided with all the music and tracks to learn to, so you can practice at home between rehearsals. Now would be a great time to contact Philip on 638 734 285 or Eileen 607 706 904 and they will be happy to give you all the details about the choir. They rehearse on a Monday morning 10:45 to 13:00 and will be happy to welcome you.

Careline Theatre: The Company are so excited to be able to finally perform their Panto `Sleeping Beauty´ and hope you will join them.

The cast are revisiting the script, numbers, dances to present to you this lovely show for everyone, young and older. The wonderful costumes will at last be seen too. Panto dates: 12 to 15 January at 19:30 & matinee at 14:30pm Sat 15 January. Tickets Adult 12,50€ Children under 10 years 8.50€. Box Office online at carelinetheatre.net. Enquiries to: carelineboxoffice@gmail.com.

Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir: The choir will be performing their popular Carol Concert in Benitachell Church on 15 December starting at 19:00 - no booking required but there will be a collection on exit. A dedicated YouTube channel is now available where you can view videos of past concerts - search for CBMVC on www.youtube.com and click on the choir's logo on the first video.

Oliva Drama: Oliva Drama is pleased to be able to invite any budding thespians out there the opportunity to join them in a session by renowned vocal coach Frankie McCoy on the 27 November in Oliva. Fee 25€. Note, places are limited, please contact kelvin.jarman@sky.com and register your interest! More info at www.olivadrama.com.

Phoenix Dancers: The Dancers would like to wish all the readers a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. With rehearsals recommencing earlier this year, they are looking forward to an active and prosperous 2022 with lots of performances in the pipework. If anyone is interested in joining the group, please contact Phaedra at info@marciasdancecentre.com.

Sounds Familiar: The Company are currently rehearsing their next production `Magic Of The Musicals´.

More information about this show will be announced soon. If you are interested in joining the group for future productions, or would like more information, please contact Philip on 965 581 483 or philip@soundsfamiliar.es.

Vall del Pop Singers: The Singers are currently inviting new singers to join them on Tuesday afternoons in Alcalalí. There is no requirement to read music and the group sing a selection of popular songs. This is a friendly group who welcome new singers and it is open to anybody of any age. Please contact the group for more information at: valldelpopsingers@gmail.com.

Valley Voices: The Voices are having a relaxing break for all of December except for joining with the Entertainers for Jalon Valley Help’s Carols in the Square in Jalon, Alcalali and Orba. They return on 10 January to their rehearsal venue at the Pensionista’s, Alcalali. If you’d like to join them on Monday afternoons, they'd love to see you! Ring 634 301 483 or 634 354 409 for more details.

If you would like to be part of this band of charitable entertainers, please email editor@femalefocusonline.com. Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Full details of all Stage Diary entertainment groups are available online at www.femalefocusonline.com

www.femalefocusonline.com

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IT'S NOT WHAT YOU SAY, IT'S HOW YOU SAY IT!

By Benny Davis The enterprising Theatre Company, Oliva Drama who conquered ´lockdown´ by writing and producing a series of radio and video playlets have taken another progressive step forward. They have invited professional voice coach Frankie McCoy to hold a one-off, twohour workshop on 27 November for existing or budding members to improve their understanding of all the essential acting and singing techniques. Fee, only 25€.

Frankie McCoy earned her reputation as an enigmatic professional performer from live gigs to studio sessions and DJ projects around the world for many years. Apart from this Oliva Drama session, Frankie offers full courses for actors and singers that include, vocal techniques, breath work, intonation and speech level singing, projection, diction, and articulation, the eight efforts of movement, space awareness versus self-awareness. Note, places are limited, please contact kelvin.jarman@sky.com to register your interest! More info at www.olivadrama.com. Or for further information on Vocal Acrobats, Email: info@frankiemccoy.com.

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

SUNSHINE, SMILES & SUCCESS FOR MOFTAG WINTER FAIR

The sun shone down at Pub Delfin on Saturday 13 November where MOFTAG (Mighty Oaks from Tiny Acorns Grow) held their Winter Fair.

Once again all the hard working efforts of the MOFTAG ladies has paid off with a new record amount of 2850€ being raised for local charities.

Anita Becker, a Moftag Committee member, commented: It is amazing what can be achieved by small groups of ladies who dedicate themselves to sewing, baking, making cards, cooking marmalades and chutneys and selling raffle tickets.

This also brings our club members together socially which is what MOFTAG is all about. We meet every Wednesday for some sort of social event and we are extremely lucky to have such dedicated and loyal members.

MOFTAG would like to extend their sincere thanks to everyone who came along to the Fair and supported them. We are seeing new faces at each Fair which is also so rewarding.

The Funds raised go towards the Red Cross, Maite Boronat and Caritas supporting them in their various projects throughout the year.

New Members are always welcome so if you would like more information about MOFTAG, the longest running Charity Club in Calpe (43 years) please contact the President, Jenny Godfrey at 639 139 518.

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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www.femalefocusonline.com Health & Beauty

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Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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Medical Equipment and Info office: 96 642 7044 Denia Hospital Interpreters & Info desk: 96 642 9346.

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Female Focus Magazine December 2021

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Page 35

Female Focus Magazine December 2021

The Recovery of The Housing Market in Moraira, Teulada, Benissa and Surrounding Areas

It’s fair to say that the world has gone through an unprecedented change in the past few years. Covid-19 has affected so many areas of everyone’s lives. Our agents are constantly being asked how the property market has changed. Sellers are concerned that the market is drying up and values are falling, whilst buyers are trying to use the situation to their advantage and hoping to find bargains.

Both sides of the house purchase transaction may be surprised by a survey amongst our members. So let’s look at the facts comparing the first 9 months of 2021 to the same period 2 years prior.

Overall, the market has not only recovered, but in many ways improved. The number of properties sold has increased by more than 30%.

You might think that marketed prices have dropped, but in fact properties are on the whole being marketed at a very close price in 2021, and better still, our agents are reporting that vendors are achieving offers much closer to asking prices. Overall, our associate agents are optimistic about the coming 12 months.

The other major change in the local market could be Brexit. So, we surveyed our associates to find out what has changed with British buyers and sellers. In terms of buyers, there have been fewer British buyers, but since Covid restrictions have been eased, British buyers have returned. When it comes to selling, there has been a notable surge of British owned properties being listed.

In summary, we’re seeing a solid recovery of the property market in the local area with a marked increase in property sales. This is however, leading to the main concern being expressed by our associate agents: specifically, a diminishing portfolio of property to sell.

Correct valuations are a vital part of a thriving property market. It’s no longer good enough for agents to value a property based on their subjective “gut feel” etc. Our associate agents have been trained to use an objective approach taking into account multiple factors to come up with a realistic valuation. Perhaps for this reason, vendors are receiving offers very close to our agents’ valuations.

MLS:03724 is committed to adding layers of professionalism and accountability to the local property market. We will continue to track local market conditions, strive for higher levels of professionalism, and work closely together to serve our customers to the highest standards. Visit www.MLS03724.com