Just for Her Issue 15

ISSUE 15

Would you like to see your article published?

Just for Her is looking for interesting and relevant articles about the Service community…

If you have something you have written, ideally with pictures too, then please send your articles in to justforher@forcespublishing.co.uk.

JustHer for

Faith

ISSUE 15

Faith

& Mili

& Military

the

tary

Win tickets to The Festive Gift Fair!

Shop the high stre et for inte rior tren ds…the late st

the

Win tickets to Th e Fe stive

DO NT MO VE,

Gift Fa ir!

IM PR O V E

The Camouflage

Handmade CHRISTMAS

Wife

Time to go

PALEO?

JustHer for

Directory for the Wiv es, Girlfrie

nds and Families of Military Personn el

Directory for the Wives, Girlfriends and Families of Military Personnel Sh op the hig hst reet for the lat est int erior tre nd s…

Check us out online…

DONT MOVE,

IMPROVE

The Camouflage Wife

Like our Facebook page…

Follow us on Twitter… @justforhermag

Subscribe to Just for Her…

www.justforhermilitarymag.co.uk

PALEO?

Handmade CHRISTMAS

www.facebook.com/ justforhermagazine 0f

Time to go

ust Her J for

Directory for the Wives, Girlfriends and Families of Military Personnel

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I am a forces spouse and when looking for gifts I noticed that whilst there are plenty of fellow ‘WAGs’ that make products and provide services, there isn’t a website where they can all be showcased together. There are also many veterans and current serving members of the military that have their own businesses. It got me thinking wouldn’t it be great if there was a dedicated website where customers could go to find all these great things in one place? Military and civilian customers alike.

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HOW DID MADE ON THE PATCH BEGIN?

JustHer for

Welcome to issue 15 of Just for Her… How is this the Christmas issue already?!

If you’re already thinking about what to buy for your loved ones then have a look at our Christmas Gift Guide, or better still, enter our competition to win tickets to The Festive Gift Fair where you are sure to find everything you could possibly need! If you fancy getting creative and giving gifts a more personal touch then our Handmade Christmas feature will be perfect for ideas on presents you can make yourself.

If Halloween is more your thing and you love all things spooky then read our great article Who Ya Gonna Call about real life ghostbusters!

We also take a hilarious look at home improvements in Don’t Move, Improve and discuss whether it’s Time to go Paleo (the answer is probably no right before Christmas but save this for afterwards!)?

Who Ya Gonna Call

6

Don’t Move, Improve

10

Shop The Highstreet

14

Faith & The Military

24

Mental Health & Me

26

Time To Go Paleo?

30

The Camouflage Wife

36

Leading Lady

38

Fashion Lookbook

42

Handmade Christmas

52

Christmas Gift Guide

58

WIN! The Festive Gift Fair

66

A to Z of Enjoying A Green Christmas 70 Cities A to Z - Luxembourg

78

If you enjoyed reading Live Like There’s No Midnight in the last issue then you’ll be pleased to hear that Gemma Keylock is back and introducing her new blog ‘The Camouflage Wife’. Never ones to shy aware from mental health issues we ask what it’s like for the partners of sufferers of mental health problems in Mental Health and Me and two ladies share with us how their faith provides them with comfort and support in times of need in Faith and the Military.

For anyone who would like to contribute to the next issue the closing date for contributions is 20th November 2017.

Until next time...

Many thanks to Kate Saines and Rebecca Smith for their editorial contribution

Enjoy!

Articles and photographs reproduced by kind permission of the contributors © No responsibility for the quality of goods or services advertised in this magazine can be accepted by the publishers or printers. Advertisements are included in good faith. The MOD or any Service Establishment is not responsible for the advertiser or its advertised product or service.

Forces & Corporate Publishing Ltd, Hamblin House, Hamblin Court, Rushden, Northants NN10 0RU. Tel: 01933 419994 www.forcespublishing.co.uk justforher@forcespublishing.co.uk @justforhermag Editorial: Joanna Barnes Design: Amy Leverton

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NATIONAL

happens. By about two the toddler is beginning to develop language and make connections. Again, what you put into the basket can feed that curiosity. Toddlers can put together pairs, recognise shapes and put them together to build. Their fingers become more nimble and they can thread beads, put rings on hooks or throw balls more accurately and they develop these skills through their play. The wider the experiences - the more they have the opportunity to learn.

Do you know any Curious Babies or Toddlers?

Here at Curious Fox Company we do - and we spend our time helping little children feed their curiosity. We know that children are born curious, constantly exploring their world and adding to their understanding of how it works, so the richer the experiences we give them, the richer the opportunities for learning ….naturally! …and that’s where we come in.

You may not have heard about Treasure Baskets (except that that they sound, quite rightly, to be baskets of treasure – of some kind), however for people involved in the world of babies, toddlers and nurseries they are a bit more specific than that. Treasure Baskets for Early Years learning contain a range of natural and everyday items which are safe for little ones to handle, but which provide a wide range of materials and experiences to help them learn about their world. They offer them things which fascinate and intrigue and with which they often become very absorbed.

Little ones learn that when you shake some things they make a sound – but not all – (is there a pattern?) that some things feel rough and others smooth.

There are some things which shine or catch the light as you move them, others can be banged on each other to make a very satisfactory sound. There

are things which are soft and flexible whereas others are hard and don’t bend, some soft ones are squashy and there are some which taste good and others which smell good - but may not be so good to taste. What a lot of things to get your head round!! – And these experiences can come from a cleverly put together Treasure Basket.

Many of the objects and toys which surround little children nowadays are plastic – they feel the same, taste the same, make the same sound when dropped and are often limiting in their play options. A Treasure Basket holds so many more experiences. There are things made from wood and metal, fabrics and natural or plant material – not ‘toys’ - just interesting ‘stuff’ - all there to help little ones to experience the breadth of our wonderful world using all their senses. (In fact, not a million miles away from Grannie’s Rainy Day Basket!)

So, what kind of ‘stuff’ goes into a Treasure Basket? The answer is lots of things are appropriate as long as they are safe to handle for the child in question.

Here it pays to know a little about the way children develop - because it makes quite a difference. Babies about 8-9 months, when they can sit and hold things, will grasp them and then…into their mouth to find out more! Their coordination is not very good, yet, so they may hit themselves by accident

Traditionally Treasure Baskets are round, about 30 cm across and made of willow, (though this is not essential) and they contain 20-30+ items in a balanced mix. There is no right collection and each one could be tailored to the child’s curiosity. Here at Curious Fox we look at each object before we add it in and ask ourselves what a baby or toddler will gain from handling it, what experience, new or familiar, will they have? We include natural objects such as shell, pinecone, wood, fruit (dried oranges), sheepskin. We add things which smell, lavender bag, herb bags and spices, something citrus or floral, then we add some textures, - soft/hard, fluffy/squashy, bristly/sharp, rough/smooth; some sounds such as a rattle, bells, striking wood or metal; then a bit of light and colour - things you can see through, others which reflect, catch the light, flash or sparkle. We then add a few containers for putting things in, some which fit into each other like nesting boxes and others which have a clear top so that you see what is there. Many items come into more than one category and we need something from each one.

or let go an object without meaning to, so their treasures need to take that into account. These babies are asking themselves ‘what is this like?’

Another thing we have to take into account when making the collection is that children are starting to develop their language, there are words to go along with their discoveries, not just names but colour, size and position words – the red ball, a big pinecone or a key inside a tin. The Treasure Baskets are becoming more sophisticated and develop into Collections around a theme. It could be a collection of shiny things, round things, a range of sensory items, a collection of noisy things or a collection of shells, brushes, keys or fabrics. All these provide rich experiences and opportunities for the language which is so important in these early years.

At about 18 months they have begun to develop their skills and experience they can cope with a wider range and a more complex collection. They can manipulate more deftly, twist things, open tins and boxes, appreciate patterns and shapes. They like things which fit into each other, they can use tweezers, begin to recognise different smells or compare textures. They are now asking themselves ‘what will it do?’ and then fiddle with it to see what

So whether you are a mum or grannie looking after a baby or toddler, whether you have to find a gift for a small person for birthday or Christmas, or even suggest what you would like as a gift for a Baby Shower or Christening, we think a Treasure Basket fits the bill. Check out our website or give us a call. There is a range of made up baskets or resources for you to make up your own. Curious Fox might just have the answer to your ideal baby gift!

Mary Horn Curious Fox Company www.curiousfoxcompany.co.uk 01905 756701 info@curiousfoxcompany.co.uk

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NATIONAL

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Hazel’s Fabric Craft have a range of fabrics, kits, tools, wadding, notions and haberdashery.

We have products for quilters, patchworkers, general sewers and crafters of all ages.

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Contemporary designs for Cross stitch, Blackwork and Needlepoint supplied as Chart only or Full Kits. Our functional range includes Games Boards, Clocks, Cards and much more together with our range of ‘Painting by Stitching’.

The DoodleCraft Games boards can be customised to make a truly personal gift and we can create bespoke designs from your own photos.

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Just for Her issue 15 2017.indd 5

Doodlecraft Designs

Personal Stylist and Style Specialist Laura works in the North East of Scotland and beyond. She offers a superb range of services guiding her clients in developing their own image/ brand, considering lifestyle, budgets and individual requirments.

Simply visit our website for a list of services or get in touch.

20/09/2017 11:37

WHO YA

GONNA

CALL?!

“ I

was contacted by the Royal British Legion in Thirsk in July, to say they had been experiencing paranormal activity in the club for a few months.

They told me that members of staff felt very uncomfortable and frightened in the cellar, almost like someone was watching them.

They said the atmosphere was very heavy and sometimes overbearing, often staff would only remain in the cellar for the shortest time possible. I was also told that an upstairs games room was believed to be haunted, as items had been thrown and orbs had been seen on CCTV. Staff at the Legion often refused to go upstairs to this room, in case anything happened while they were there.

I was invited along, with a friend of mine, a paranormal investigator, to try and find out what was happening in the club. Staff and some of the people that came to the club, asked if they could join us in the investigation. On the evening of the investigation, we spoke to everyone that was with us and made them aware, that this was going to be the paranormal for real, nothing like the movies and nothing staged or set up. We also said that if any of them felt uncomfortable during the investigation to let us know and if they wanted to leave that would be fine.

We started with the cellar, which I must admit felt very uncomfortable, just by going down the stairs. When we were ready to start, I put a protection around us all, bearing in mind I had no idea of what was to be expected. Within a few minutes, I became aware of a very dark and sinister spirit energy lurking in one particular area of the cellar. My friend soon became aware of this also and we let everyone know of this

Halloween is just around the corner, and we’ve been speaking to our friend John Colenutt, a psychic medium based in Catterick, about things that go bump in the night! John recounted his experience from an investigation he did back in June this year for the Royal British Legion in Thirsk, North Yorkshire and told us some more on his work as a Psychic Medium.…

spirit who was with us. People’s faces began to change, as they realised that this was actually real and happening. I made every effort to calm and reassure everyone that I felt the spirit energy wasn’t actually harmful, but never the less it wasn’t particularly positive. My first impression, was that the spirit was a Quaker preacher from the mid 1800’s and practiced the religion for totally the wrong reasons. I also felt other spirit people with him, who seemed to be very scared of this man and that the preacher would not allow them to cross over to the spirit side of life.

I told everyone what I had picked up on and that I felt the preacher couldn’t remain on this side of life as it wasn’t kind to keep his followers trapped here. I walked around the cellar with everyone to see what else I could pick up on, at the same time asking if anyone was feeling or seeing anything. I stood in one particular area and soon became aware of several children that had been buried in the floor of the cellar, I felt they had been attached to the preacher in life.

The people with us looked shocked when I told them of this and said they needed to be helped to cross over.

By this time some of the guests were saying they weren’t feeling well and two people said they felt tired and drained, I said to them it was probably the negative energy they were feeling and if they wished to leave, it would be fine. They decided to stay and carry on with the investigation. One lady started to feel very overcome by the spirit of an old lady, who was suddenly with her, I felt the energy of this spirit, as did other people that were nearby. Some of us could detect the strong smell of rose and lavender, perhaps a perfume that the spirit lady used to wear. I asked the spirit

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lady to move away, as she was making people very uncomfortable, the lady did as I asked and was no longer there.

Spirit Rescue

“I

We all felt people walking past us, very gently and very peacefully, I must have counted at least 10 adults and 15 children. After they had crossed, the whole cellar seemed very calm and settled. Before we left the cellar, I made sure that no spirit people remained. We then went to the upstairs room, where activity had been reported. On entering the room. I felt nothing at all, no activity, no spirit people. I let everyone know of this and our guests agreed, they couldn’t feel anything. I think the activity in the cellar was having an effect on the room, and now the cellar had been cleared, the activity in the room had gone.

n addition to giving readings, I am also a Rescue Medium, which means I have the ability to help spirit people cross over to spirit side of life.

Sometimes, people remain on this side of life because they feel trapped… maybe even scared of the Unknown… it could be they feel lost, or just unable to cross over. My work as a Rescue Medium, is to help these people make the transition from our side of life to spirit side. There are occasions when a spirit person refuses to cross over for any of the reasons that I’ve mentioned and all I do really, is to give them a helping hand. I’ll give an example of this...

A few years ago, I had the feeling that several spirit people had come to me for help and I soon realised that it was around 20 or so American pilots that had lost their lives in air combat during WW2. During this process I smelt burning fuel and I had the image they had been shot down, I felt their emotions and feelings of so much unhappiness and loss, so I had to act quickly in a spirit rescue. I identified the commanding officer and tried to get him to move closer to me, so I could offer help. At first he was a bit reluctant to do so, but eventually he stepped forward. While communicating with him, I said that I could help all of them make the transition, so the officer stepped into the white light, closely followed by the other pilots. Just before crossing over, the officer turned, saluted and said “I’ll give you something for helping us” A few days later, I was at an amusement arcade playing the slot machines, I put my money in and along with several other coins that had come out there was an American Dime. Was this pure coincidence or did the officer keep his word and give me something? I believe he gave me that coin.

“

With this in mind, I thought it might be a good time to attempt to remove the preacher, so I called out, asking him to step forward to me, nothing happened, I called out several times, but still with no response. My friend and I walked to one area of the cellar where I thought the preacher might be hiding, closely followed by our guests. We became aware of the preacher lurking in a very dark corner.

I said in a very loud voice the he wasn’t welcome here and he had no right to keep people trapped in this side of life. I said this several times and I felt the preacher become very agitated. We actually saw an outline of him, certainly a very dark energy. By this time some of our guests were calling out to this man to show himself and said he was no longer wanted. With one last attempt I shouted to the preacher, that he was to go and go now, he didn’t belong here and wasn’t wanted.

Everything suddenly became very calm and I felt the preacher had gone. I then decided to help the trapped adults and children to cross over. I talked to them, saying that the preacher was no longer here, and to go towards the light, as they would find peace and comfort within it.

If you are experiencing spirit activity in your home and would like help or advice, then please feel free to either message me or call me on - 07763169418.

You can contact John via his Facebook page John, Psychic Medium.

After the investigation, I found out from one of the guests, that there is a Quaker meeting house in Thirsk, of which I had no idea at all. Also that tunnels ran from the cellar, in all different directions, one probably connected to the Quaker house. The most enlightening piece of information, that my friend and I discovered, was that the cellar had been used as a “Sunday school” back in the mid 1800’s. So... was it the very same preacher that had trapped his followers in life, and in death?

“

I contacted the Legion club a couple of weeks after the investigation and was told that no more paranormal activity had taken place.

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SCOTLAND MILITARY CATCHMENT

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Treat yourself or a loved one to a unique, hand painted lasting reminder of your special pet.

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Audrey Yeardley Audrey Yeardley is a Consultant Member of the British Astrological & Psychic Society, with a broad experience of life in many different fields, and with a deep interest in everything ‘metaphysical.’

Taking to Tarot, like a duck to water, she sees it as a symbolic map, guiding and navigating through both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ times, to make the ‘best’ of them.

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NORTH MILITARY CATCHMENT

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DONT MOVE,

IMPROVE

About to embark on the huge refurbishment? Bought a ‘doer upper’?

Wishing you’d just opted for a new build instead? Never fear! Our Renovation Survival Guide will give you renewed energy and enthusiasm for creating your perfect home.

One

Stop watching Homes Under the Hammer We all love a bit of Homes Under the Hammer.

But actually, far from being a motivational tool for wannabe property developers, it is more likely to distract you from the task in hand. You will never create your dream home if you are drinking tea and guessing which piece of music will accompany the presenters’ next pun. What’s more, Homes Under the Hammer and all other property make-over shows for that matter, distort reality (60 Minute Makeover, we are looking at you). Yes, yes there is a lot of talk about how demanding the project was, how it went over budget, how the auction catalogue hadn’t mentioned the subsidence and rising damp.

But, everyone seems to turn their project around incredibly fast. And they always seems to laugh about the ‘blips’ as they are proudly showing Lucy or Dion around their gleaming palace and demonstrating the remote controlled blinds. What they don’t show is the moment you discover you are homeless, because you have completed on your old house and the new house resembles a disaster zone, so you have to camp on your front lawn. Which leads us on nicely to our next tip…

Two

Overestimate EVERYTHING Here’s a question. Have you ever heard anyone ever

utter the following statement: “Ooh, yes, my house renovation went swimmingly, it was so much fun, finished on time and we actually saved money in the end”? No. Exactly.

When calculating the time it will take to complete your project, always add at least three months on top.

This also applies to the budget: by all means give yourself a limit, but make sure there’s a buffer in the pot to cover any unforeseen problems or changes of heart. But remember, don’t tell your builders you have done this. The deadline and budget which you set yourself, your landlord or buyers and your removal company, should be later than the one you give the tradespeople.

Three

Get lots of quotes No doubt you are all savvy enough to be calling up at least three builders, contractors or project managers to provide estimates on the work, but here’s the tip - don’t just look at the price when you get a quote.

Consider whether you think you could work with this company for what might be a year or more. Did they communicate well? Did they turn up on time?

Do they come highly recommended? The firm with the cheapest quote could end up presenting the most expensive bill if you choose one which doesn’t listen to you or – even worse – goes bust or does a shoddy job.

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Four

Cross the ‘T’s and dot the ‘I’s Or, in other words, make sure your builder is on top of building regulations. It might sound boring, but these rules are there to protect you and anyone who buys your house in the future. You will need to notify your local authority if you are making changes to your house and even though a planning application may not be necessary, the council still like to check standards are being met. Even knocking through an interior wall will require some calculations and the green light from a structural engineer.

Five

Be a control freak The initial excitement at choosing a new kitchen, comparing paint samples and purchasing curtain rails is definitely one of the highs of property renovation. It is what your Pinterest account was made for.

However, there is only so much choosing a girl can cope with… seriously. For what you don’t realise before you start revamping your home, is the huge amount of things which require selecting. Everything from baths and carpets to door handles and architraves.

Sadly, this process rarely involves seeing something you like online and said item magically appearing in its new home. No. It usually entails lots of googling, some measuring, a discussion with your partner, an argument with your partner, a threat to divorce your partner, a suitcase being packed, a sleepless night, an apology, a compromise, a phone call to your builder and then the discovery that the thing you have chosen, and which nearly destroyed your marriage, is out of stock. And so the process begins again.

It is very tempting, at this stage, to just let your builder choose the blinking wardrobe door handles. However, don’t give in. Be strong. For this micro-managing, however painful, will pay off eventually when your dream abode is complete and you can take the credit for every beautiful bit.

Six

Be on site as much as possible If you are not living in your house while work is in progress, make sure you visit regularly. Find excuses to turn up - dropping off biscuits is a good one.

Checking post is another. But, ultimately, it’s your home and you have a right to be there so don’t feel bad about rocking up and making yourself known.

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Most tradespeople appreciate these visits as they often have a list of questions for you and would much rather ask in person that bother you by phone.

Seven

Keep something back for yourself This is a great tip for anyone who has hired a building firm or a project manager to run a refurbishment. Hiring someone to manage the whole shebang takes a lot of the stress out, but it also takes away some flexibility and timing from you. By keeping aside one or two pieces of work to organise yourself, you’ll maintain some involvement and a bit of control. It will also help reinforce deadlines - handy if work is looking like it’s running late.

Taking responsibility for the carpets is a good example. Laying flooring is often one of the final jobs to be done in a house renovation, so if you have booked the carpet fitters for a certain date, the builders will hopefully aim to complete their work in time for this.

Eight

Carry out high-level reconnaissance before going to the loo This is probably the most important tip of all. To avoid major embarrassment make sure you check the following before using the lavatory: a) that there are no builders on scaffolding outside the open toilet window.

“When the time comes when having no carpets, looking at unplastered walls and being forced to wee in a bucket have completely taken their toll just remember this: it will all be worth it in the end!”

Nine

Be nice to (aka bribe) the neighbours With building work comes noise, and mess and lots of people parking vans in the street.

And that’s before the kerfuffle (and smell) created by the Easy Loo man dropping in to clean the builders’ toilet. So, to avoid your neighbours getting overly annoyed, inform them first of all that you are doing the work. Keep them updated with any major developments or problems. And, bribe them with flowers, wine, cakes and, finally, an invitation to see the house when it’s finished. For, let’s face it, we all love a nose at other people’s houses so the chance to get a grand tour will hit the spot with even the most amateur Rightmove Stalker.

Ten

Keep calm and think of Dion Dublin There will, sadly, be days when you are in the midst of the nightmare that is property refurbishment when the novelty of living on a building site will wear off. This is usually about two minutes after you move in. So, when the time comes when having no carpets, looking at unplastered walls and being forced to wee in a bucket have completely taken their toll just remember this: it will all be worth it in the end! It really will. It’s a bit like giving birth. The pain may be unbearable, you will have run down all your energy supplies, you will be sleep deprived and your spirit broken. It will feel as if the torture will never end. But, in a few months’ time, you will completely forget all of this. In fact, you may even be laughing as you show (in your imagination) Lucy and Dion around your gleaming new home complete with remote controlled blinds.

b) that there are no tree surgeons, with cameras, perched on trees with a bird’s eye view through the hole where the window is about to be fitted. c) that all the pipes from the toilet are connected and your waste is not going to just fall onto the patio where the builders are having their fag break. d) That the water has not been turned off.

Especially important if you are doing a number two.

12

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20/09/2017 11:40

Faith

& Military

the

How does religion make a difference to life in the armed forces?

Two military wives explain how their faith has helped them through many challenging times and how prayer, and the odd Haribo sweet, can boost morale on the front line.

Juliette Stokes, 46, is married to Padre Carl Stokes, a Chaplain to the Army in Larkhill, Salisbury.

They have two children, Tim, 24, and Katie, 22…

An Army Chaplain is there to provide pastoral support to people of all faiths and no faiths. They are assigned to a Regiment and a Garrison Church and will lead services within the church and also take field services when the soldiers are training somewhere, or are deployed. The Chaplain aims to take care of his soldiers throughout their military careers including during deployment. Within the military they also take lessons with the soldiers - on morality and standards and act as a moral compass to the Regiment.

My role is a supportive one. I try to support the Garrison especially the spouses and families that I meet and get to know.

My role is to just be there. The chaplain is outside the chain of command so is a safe person to talk to and it’s similar for me. There’s a less defined role within the military chaplaincy than in civilian ministry for the spouse of a chaplain but that frees me up to support the families and spouses in different ways.

Because our Chaplains do military training and are deployed, I can relate to spouses in the military. We walk alongside them because our husbands go through the same things. We can offer them support and encouragement and pray for them and their particular concerns.

L-R Liesel and Juliette The difference with a Chaplain is they are never armed. I think that speaks volumes to the soldiers they go out with - that they will go out without any protection to be alongside them. My husband has a massive heart - and his heart is to be where his soldiers are. He wants to be beside them offering encouragement, support and the odd Haribo or two to help keep them going.

As the wife of a Chaplain you have the same fears and worries for your husband as

any military spouse. As a Chaplain’s spouse you go through the same things as other military spouses. For me my faith really helps in the ups and downs of being a Military spouse. As a Christian you are not out there alone, you believe that God is with you and you feel deep inside that God is close to you.

It doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t suffer and bad things don’t happen, but it means you are not alone if they do. And so for me, being able to constantly bring my husband to God when he is away and pray for him, pray for myself and the family and for all those that he walks alongside and all the spouses I walk alongside is really important to me and makes a massive difference.

Having faith meant that when Carl was deployed I wasn’t alone. I believe in a God that is compassionate, a God that is powerful and a God that has a massive heart of love and so I didn’t feel it was all up to me. I could bring every situation to God and that gave me peace. God gives you the ability to cope, he gives you strength - you feel sustained and held and supported through it.

You are not alone. When my husband was deployed, he suffered the loss of a number of soldiers but we were able to pray to God to comfort the families and friends - we didn’t just have to be there feeling upset and useless, we could offer something very proactive for those who were hurting.

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“For me my faith really helps in the ups and downs of being a Military spouse.”

I worked in the HIVE during our time in Germany and felt I was on the frontline in a way. People could come into me and I would support them generally. If Christians came in and asked, I would pray for the situations they were facing or just give them a hug, so they knew that there was someone who had the same faith and would just be there with them. In the role I am in at the moment, as the Administrator and Prayer coordinator at the Armed Forces Christian Union (AFCU), I can continue to offer pastoral support and pray for people on a day to day basis.

At the AFCU we recognise the spouses of those suffering with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) sometimes don’t get all the support they are looking for and need.

We have created, on our website, a page for signposting people with PTSD. We have tried to find organisations that offer support.

It’s something that is evolving over time and it’s something that people are beginning to recognise. As a military spouse, my natural affiliation is to care and support other military spouses - you are very emotionally connected to them and so my heart goes out to them. If we can offer something, even just a little, to support them and let them know they are not alone then that’s really important.

I have found my faith to be the bedrock, the firm foundation that holds me secure in the midst of all the changes that military life brings. In my own life and at AFCU I have seen the difference that praying to God, who is ready and willing to hear and answer us, has made within the lives of serving personnel and their families across the military community.

Liesel Parkinson, 48, is wife to Rhett, a veteran who served in the Royal Engineers. They now both work for the Armed Forces Christian Union (AFCU) and live in Shrivenham…

I have been working for AFCU for the last eight years. Rhett has been working here for the last four years. We are a prayer union; primarily we seek to support Christians within the military through fellowship, prayer and events and we also pray for the

I was suffering with PND following the birth of our second child. I had actually had it for a long time because it hadn’t been diagnosed after the birth of my first child. I had started going to the AFCU’s women’s events and God really met with me one weekend. It’s a long story, but he healed me - completely, instantly. That was huge and I can’t tell you how exciting and amazing that was. It was life changing. Rhett was grateful too - he said he got a different wife back from that weekend.

Liesel and family military in whatever they are involved in.

I feel very privileged to be doing this job and to be paid for doing it is even more amazing. We are great team – there are ten members of staff, some part time but there’s lots of experience in the team. We work closely with the chaplaincy and over 800 of our members are currently serving. We run a number of events – this year we ran one for the spouses of those with PTSD. As a tri-service organisation we see the bigger picture. I think it’s true that across the entire military people seem to be doing two or three jobs at the moment, they are under a lot of stress and there’s not enough money. It’s helpful to build up a big picture of what’s happening in the military in a way it’s not possible to do when you are just involved in one regiment when sometimes you don’t appreciate what you are experiencing is common throughout the military.

“The military is a family, but I think there’s an extra dynamic in faith.”

One of the amazing things that AFCU do is prayer support - a bit like a pen pal relationship.You are linked with a particular group and they write to you, pray for you and encourage you.You write to them and say ‘I’d like a prayer for these things…’ and they write back and say ‘we’ve prayed’ which is lovely support. When things are really tough - Rhett’s done a lot of tours, some of which have been hairy - just to know there were people praying was a huge source of strength. That is how we got involved with the AFCU.

We have a very dynamic outreach to women who are connected with the military. Either because they are serving themselves or because they are married to somebody who is serving or because they have a child who is serving. We run a lot of weekend retreats for women. We have a leadership development programme called Twenty4, which is specifically for women who are either serving or married to somebody serving but basically outreaching into their own military community. They are people who want to make a difference in their lives and we can support them to do that.

The military is a family, but I think there’s an extra dynamic in faith. We have always felt strongly about going to military churches. We are still going now. It’s been a huge source of strength and encouragement.

Even though the churches have been tiny there have usually been one or two people in each posting who have really made a difference. Having faith in common means you get to know people very quickly on a deep level.

I think most Christians are nice people.

They are friendly, don’t take offence easily and they care. They are also hospitable, truthful and they don’t talk about you behind your back. Those are all the things that should mark Christians out. It’s not to say everyone’s as lovely as that - but I believe true Christians should be!

If I could get one message across to the readers it would be… having Christian faith and a personal relationship with God (through Jesus) makes a huge difference in your life and it’s worth checking out. Be open-minded and investigate it because I don’t think you will be disappointed.

If you would like to find out more or to ask for us to pray for you please do contact us at office@afcu.org.uk 25

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MENTAL HEALTH & me As a programme is unveiled to support partners of former servicemen and women with PTSD, we hear from one veteran’s wife about how her husband’s condition has affected her own mental health.

unconditional love and care of his wife. But this devotion has taken its toll.

“For the last 13 years I have been looking after three children,” says Brigette, “putting them all through school, running the house and trying to work - it’s been very, very difficult.Very strenuous. Having to contend with everything Stacey has been struggling with on top has just added to the strain.”

Brigette has also been managing her own health problems. Just a few years ago she had spinal surgery. What’s more, her mental health has, not surprisingly, taken a blow as a result of all her burdens.

“I have been in and out of the GP. I would say maybe every two or three years I go through a bit of a low time. I have had antidepressants before and I think when things get so on top of you, you have to let go a little bit. I have had a couple of times when I have thought ‘I can’t cope any more’ and it’s been difficult.”

Stacey and Brigette

I

t all started with restless sleep. Then the nightmares began and the drinking spiralled out of control. In 15 years Stacey Creswell, an army veteran, has been through nearly 40 jobs.

Unable to hold down employment, his family has fallen into financial crisis, often being forced to survive on benefits.

The former soldier, who suffers mood swings and often displays signs of a split personality, has a difficult relationship with his three children. They don’t know what to expect from their Dad from one day to the next. It’s no wonder, then, that his wife Brigette describes the last decade and a half as ‘stressful, straining and tiring’.

“It is physically and mentally very wearing,” she says. “How I have managed, I really don’t know.”

We speak to Brigette on the week it is announced Combat Stress, the veterans’ mental health charity, is launching a programme to support partners of former armed forces servicemen and women with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Her story highlights in stark clarity the reason this kind of service is so badly needed.

You see, Stacey was only diagnosed with PTSD four years ago. Before that he received no help or support other than the

Brigette admits there have been occasions when she has considered turning to alcohol as an escape route from the relentless struggles.

She’s not the only one. According to Combat Stress, which has just published the results of a groundbreaking study into the mental health needs of partners of veterans, 45% of women in this situation had alcohol problems. “I can completely understand that,” Brigette says. “I have thought about that myself over the years. It has crossed my mind - just to take everything away, just for that tiny bit of time.

But because I have got the children, I stayed well clear.”

What did surprise Brigette about the results of the study, which surveyed 100 women who are partners of veterans with PTSD, were the rates of women with anxiety. Brigette said she would have expected far more than 37% to suffer. “In my own personal experience the worry and bad thoughts supersede everything. But, then, I am a natural born worrier so the anxiety is high.” Despite the fact Brigette herself has experienced worry and anxiety, she like many women in her situation - has put her husband’s health first. With three children, her own needs have come bottom of the pile. “Most of the time,” she explains, “I have felt like a single parent through all of this. He’s not really been able to support me financially or emotionally. He’s never been able to help me with parenting, he doesn’t have a very good bond with any of the children at the moment. I’ve basically had to do everything on my own.”

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Of course life wasn’t always like this for Brigette and Stacey. They got together just as he was leaving the army, which he joined at the age of 16. His role working with rapier systems for air defence took him to Northern Ireland at the age of 18 and he was also posted in Dortmund, Germany. When the couple first met, in their local pub, they hit it off immediately. “We never looked back from there,” says Brigette. To begin with their life was very happy. After leaving the army Stacey landed a job as a sales manager, a role he held down for three years. “We had a fabulous family life. We always used to be going out,” says Brigette.

“Stacey was bubbly, always working. We had really good times. It was a very enjoyable first few years of being together.”

But Brigette began noticing things weren’t quite right. The nightmares and restless sleep began worrying her. And there were other things…

Brigette explains: “One minute he could be quite happy and then he would completely change. It was as if he had two different sides to him. I always knew there was something - but I thought it was a male thing. I thought he was tired or something.

He has always liked to have a really good drink that was the norm. But as it started to get worse, I thought ‘this isn’t quite right’.He would go with the good intention that it was just one or two drinks - a few hours later and he would be crawling back.”

Stacey’s PTSD, it emerged when he began receiving treatment through Combat Stress, was probably triggered by his experiences in Northern Ireland. Going through such an intense situation at a young age would have had a profound effect, which only began manifesting years later. Brigette reminds herself of this when life gets really tough.

“There are times when everything gets on top of me - many a time there have been tears and I have said ‘enough is enough’. But I remember, it’s just words, it’s his condition and his illness that’s making him like this and I know there is a completely different side to him.”

Like many couples in this situation the pair have also separated several times - but this has always been temporary. “It got to the stage where we couldn’t cope together but we couldn’t be apart from each other either,” she says. “Stacey says to me ‘I don’t know why you are still with me’. But I tell him: I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t still love him. Love’s unconditional. He never asked for any of this and way I look at this, I took a vow, I stuck by it, I love him completely and I wouldn’t ever wish him to go through any of this on his own. I think that’s what’s kept me going. Thinking this is an illness, not my husband. I am going to fight this and not let this defeat us. You can’t plan anything, you can plan what you will be doing next week.

All I can do is get up every morning and say ‘today’s going to be different’.”

Just for Her issue 15 2017.indd 27

Dr Dominic Murphy, second left, with his colleagues at Combat Stress

Dr Dominic Murphy is a senior clinical lecturer at Combat Stress, he was the lead researcher and author of the study into the mental health of partners of veterans with PTSD. Here he tells us more about the groundbreaking research and how Combat Stress is helping spouses…

“When I set up the department in 2014 I was keen to explore the impact of living with PTSD for partners.

Interviewing veterans about PTSD I would also meet their partners and got to hear how difficult their lives were.

That’s what set me on the journey to do this research.

We have found higher-than-expected mental health rates in military partners.

Just under forty per cent have either anxiety or depression. Seventeen per cent were victims of PTSD. We don’t know whether those symptoms were PTSD or secondary traumatic stress caused by living beside trauma. Forty five per cent had reported difficulties with alcohol. We compared these to the general public and these results were far higher than in females in the general public.

a military family town any more. There are several people saying they wouldn’t feel understood by civilian friends and family.

In follow-up interviews some really poignant things came out. Many women reported inequality in their relationships and feeling as if a lot of the decision-making which goes on revolves around the person with PTSD. Many talked about a loss of their own identity - they were no longer able to do things they wanted to do. Their identity was being a carer. They talked about living in a volatile environment where, for example, they were very often hypervigilant or walking on eggshells. Finally, they experienced emotional distress and isolation.

Even more worrying we found those who didn’t have existing mental health difficulties were far more likely to report a barrier to seeking help. The group that are the most in need are the group that have the most barriers to seeking help.

We have now set up a pilot intervention programme to support partners of veterans with PTSD. This is group-based support, which runs over five-weeks from Royal British Legion Hubs. One of the aims is to provide education to the partners to skill them up on what mental health is. The sessions will also involve finding ways to help the veteran. The groups will help them to support themselves to cope with their own depression, low mood and anxieties. We’ll be helping partners to understand that it’s ok for them to prioritise their own needs, and we’ll give them the strategies to do that.”

There’s something potentially about the military context. These are veterans and veterans’ partners. They are not living in

For advice or support call Combat Stress on its 24-hour Helpline 0800 138 1619.

We also found a whole range of barriers to seeking help. The most frequent were around stigma and fearing they wouldn’t feel understood. Feeling that no one would understand their particular problems and they should be able to cope with it themselves.

20/09/2017 11:40

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Time to go

PALEO? If you spend any amount of time on social media or have an interest in the latest en vogue health trends then the chances are you’ve already heard of the Paleo Diet. For those who haven’t, the Paleo Diet is an effort to eat as we would have during the Paleolithic era when the first humans would have only eaten what they hunted and gathered. Sound crazy? Well it actually kind of makes sense when you really get down to it…!

T

he reasoning behind it is pretty simple, our bodies are not truly designed to eat a lot of what we do nowadays and it can lead to many health problems such as digestive issues, skin problems, lack of energy, diabetes and allergies. Some research has shown that eating processed and high sugar foods – both of which are banned on the Paleo Diet – can even lead to cancer and other serious diseases. The staples of a Paleo Diet are anything that you could technically hunt and gather (going out hunting and gathering is not actually required though you’ll be pleased to hear!) so meat, fish, nuts, seeds, leafy greens and regional fruits and vegetables are all on the menu. Processed food including processed meats, chocolate, sweets, flour, grains, dairy, cakes, artificial sweeteners and biscuits all have to go. Basically if a caveman didn’t eat it, then neither can you!

“No chocolate at ALL?!” We hear you cry.

We know, it’s a LOT to ask from a longterm diet plan. But before you write it off, if you really think about it our body structures and genetics haven’t changed all that much in the last tens of thousands of years.Yet the average homo sapien back then was strong, muscular, agile and athletic. Nowadays the average homo sapien is overweight, unhappy, out of shape and stressed out. The aim of the Paleo Diet isn’t actually designed to reduce your weight

but, when done correctly, losing weight is a very welcome side effect of following the plan for most. As you are cutting calories from no longer eating foods with added sugar, or empty calories from ‘bad’ carbohydrates that get processed into high amounts of sugar, your body composition will naturally change. When your body no longer relies on sugar as a source of energy to get through the day it also means it will start to burn fat stores for energy instead.

This is called ketosis, and that, along with the increased energy and strength you will have from fuelling your body with the good, whole, nutrient-rich food it really needs rather than sugar and too many carbs, you will find it easier to work out at a harder pace and for a longer period of time, equalling more calories burned and better fitness all round. According to the people who have tried it, the hardest part of the Paleo Diet is getting through the first few weeks. Many people report headaches, lethargy and irritability from the sudden reduction in sugar. Although it feels rough, this really means that the diet is working, your body is craving the sugar it’s used to and is having to learn to live without it. This withdrawal doesn’t last forever. Whenever you drastically change your diet there are always going to be big changes to how you feel, and if you can stay strong and push through those first few weeks the benefits you will see will be well worth it, both short and long

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term. Along with weight loss, people who follow this diet most commonly report sleeping better, digestive improvements, acne improving, higher energy levels and less mood swings, and generally feeling much happier all round. For some it has helped them manage other illnesses such as chronic pain and inflammation, type 2 diabetes and IBS to name a few.

Rather than being yet another fad diet, the Paleo Diet is more of a lifestyle change than a quick fix. According to many who have switched to the Paleo Diet it will redefine your relationship with food, re-train your body to use the food you eat to fuel your body correctly and it will curb your sugar cravings.

So what CAN you expect to enjoy on a paleo plan?

The answer may surprise you! It’s not as dull as you may be thinking. A typical day could be paleo pancakes (bananas and eggs mashed together and fried) with fresh fruit for breakfast, celery or carrot sticks with guacamole for a mid-morning snack, a simple chicken salad drizzled with some paleo-friendly dressing, and for dinner you could have teriyaki beef with steamed veggies and cauliflower rice sprinkled with seeds. Still feeling peckish? Try making a batch of paleo friendly coconut macaroons for a sweet treat. The trick to living paleo is to do your research when it comes to substitutes and recipes.You can still enjoy most ‘normal’ foods – but by following a modified and healthier recipe. For example, if you wanted pizza the paleo way, you could create the base using almond, coconut and tapioca flour instead of regular flour. Or, for a super healthy version, you could use cauliflower crumbs, egg and seasoning combined and then flattened out and baked to make a tasty alternative pizza base. No it might not sound as mouthwatering as a domino’s stuffed crust but it does mean you don’t have to miss out on some of the comfort foods you’re used to and you’ll be fuelling your body with good, healthy food instead of processed high-sugar junk. Healthy fats play an important role too, it can be quite strange cooking with oil and fat and not feeling a bit guilty about it when we’ve been told for so long that fat = bad. The truth is fat is not the problem, it’s where it comes from and how we use it that determines whether it is good or bad.

Not all Paleo experts agree on just what is and what isn’t allowed on the Paleo Diet. The rough consensus is that cereals, dairy, starches, legumes, grains, processed food, refined sugars and artificial sweeteners are not allowed and that fruits, non-starchy vegetables, lean meats and seafood are. The grey area that people don’t always agree on comes with coffee, dark chocolate, Ghee (or clarified butter), bacon, salt and alcohol.

The bottom line is that it’s probably best to listen to your body and your own instincts when it comes to deciding whether to include any of those things in your Paleo plan. continues over page >>

www.thepaleodiet.com/what-to-eat-on-the-paleo-diet-paul-vandyken 31 Infographic courtesy of www.rigorfitness.com

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“In order to stick to the plan of this diet you should prep your food for the week ahead as much as possible - organise a menu and shop accordingly.“ One thing that is important to remember is that the Paleo plan is not a ‘no carb’ diet.

The fact is, humans need carbohydrates for energy. Carbs get converted into sugar in the body, which is what we use to keep moving and functioning, but where we get those carbs from is what is important.

Good carbs come from fruits and vegetables that are not only high carb but also high fibre, which keeps our gut healthy, keeps us feeling fuller for longer, and stops our insulin from spiking. The less the carbohydrate has been processed the better it is, which is why concentrated sources of sweetness like cakes, biscuits and sweets are off limits.

Using some smart swaps when trying out the Paleo Diet can be a lifesaver. Switch peanut butter (peanuts are a legume!) for almond butter, soy or cows milk for unsweetened almond or coconut milk, salad dressing for olive oil & balsamic vinegar, chips for baked sweet potato “fries” and fizzy drinks for soda water with chunks of fresh lime.

These healthy swaps can make the Paleo Diet much less taxing when you start to crave something off-plan.

The Paleo community does agree on one thing unanimously, and that’s that in order to stick to the plan of this diet you should prep your food for the week ahead as much as possible - organise a menu and shop accordingly. It can be hard to come up with things and think on the fly with this type of eating plan, and not being organised could mean you find yourself out of a vital ingredient and struggling to think of

what to eat which in turn could force you into eating something you shouldn’t be.

Your shopping bill might increase slightly, but if you weigh it up against the money you would have spent on takeaways and snacks you might find it evens itself out relatively well in the long run. Eating out can be the trickiest part of sticking to the Paleo plan, as many restaurants won’t have something that meets all your requirements.

The best thing to do in these situations is to ring the restaurant to check beforehand, and if there’s nothing you can have then eat before you go and enjoy some drinks when you are there. For many people on the Paleo Diet it doesn’t have to mean that you never eat out again or enjoy some ‘normal’ food. For most, going Paleo for a month, and then carrying those habits over when that month is finished is enough, essentially meaning they eat Paleo for 95% of the time but do indulge on certain occasions. What you don’t want to do is start a slippery slope back into eating junk all the time, so it’s important to listen to yourself and know your limits. If you eat a big cream cake today and have a McDonalds, are you going to be happy going back to a Paleo lifestyle the next day or is it going to make you want to eat more junk food again, and would that make you happy? Many Paleo dieters say that you might be surprised that when you DO reintroduce non-Paleo foods back into your diet after sticking to the plan for long enough, it may make you feel more than a bit rubbish, and you’ll actually crave healthy stuff instead.

So there you have it, in a nutshell, the basics of the Paleo craze. We’re a bit tempted to try it… would you?!

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The Camouflage Wife www.thecamouflagewife.wordpress.com

L

ast issue we ran a fabulous article called ‘Live Like There’s N o Midnight’ which was written by Gemma Keylock and very kindly sent in to us. Imagine our excitement then when we learned that Gemma has recently launched her very own blog, The Ca mouflage Wife. Of course, we had to check it out and were definitely not disappointed! Here we have included one of Gemma’s posts for you to enjoy and urge you to follow Gemma as she chronicles life as a military wife…

“

Hello!

My name’s Gemma, and I jumped (belly flopped?) into the military bubble at the deep end. I moved to Germany, a year and a half ago: my first ever posting. The last few years have been both the happiest of my life, and most taxing. Moving across Europe, settling two children into their second ever school, starting a new job, making new friends, getting used to being labelled a ‘dependent’ (still not quite there yet, it irks the feminist in me) and the arrival of a bouncing baby boy, doesn’t come without its fair share of raised cortisol levels and upped gin consumption. And so, here we are. My blog is born…

The universal answer proffered by those trying to help? Wives coffee mornings. Now, I love women but they also terrify the hell out of me en-masse. They are the most wonderful, amazing, inspiring people. They can, though, plunge the depths of judgmental bitchiness to their fellow sex that men will never understand. Coffee morning? to me organised ‘fun’ is about on par with pulling teeth. It conjures up images of ‘Hi-de-Hi’ing redcoats trying to chivvy along stony-faced parents into the karaoke contest; ‘but you could win a return trip!’ all the more flipping reason not to thanks.

Down the Rabbit Hole…

W

ith every army move, I think it’s pretty fair to say the thought ‘I’m never going to make any new friends’ is a safe bet. Making new friends as a child is easy: you simply bond over the shared love of football, Barbie or, nowadays, virtually killing people online. As a slightly more embittered, world-weary, adult things are a little more tricky. For starters you have to actually act like a nice person!

I am nice. Sometimes. However, after saying goodbye to my nearest and dearest, and packing up my life to move to god knows where, the last thing I really feel like doing is painting on an approachable, friendly smile.

What I would really like to do is drink gin and moan. Profusely. My old friends would be obliging, if not happy to so indulge me.

Women I’ve just met? not so much and I don’t blame them, we’re all dealing with the same crap after all. But the fact is army life, especially in those first few months, can be a very lonely existence, in the wise words of Winnie the Pooh ‘ A day without a friend is like a pot without a single drop of honey left inside’.

I did, with time though, and much bemoaning, pull on my big girl pants. I painted on a friendly smile, and the more I did so the less forced it became. Gradually I met genuinely lovely people: through work, other mums and neighbours. I even eventually met some lovely people who went to coffee mornings: so I went too. Safety in numbers and all that. And do you know what? No one was more surprised by this than me, it was great. I met people that I could talk to about Donald Trump and Theresa May, people I could talk about skincare and sex with, and yes, people I could moan to about the trials of being an army wife (I did give it a few days).

My point? As daunting and horrifying as it seems to have to make new friends in adulthood, it’s possible, even probable, that you’ll make friends you would have actually chosen at home, but you won’t meet them sat inside wistfully wishing for your old life unfortunately. All the best people truly are bonkers, you’ve just gotta find the people who you can be your own bonkers-self with, wherever you can. And, let’s face it, you have to be a bit bonkers to be an army wife.

“

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Leading Lady The skills and experiences we gain as military spouses can be hugely valuable to our careers. Jacqueline Rogers, daughter of an RAF serviceman, former military wife and entrepreneur explains how…

A

rmed forces life should come with a warning: “marrying a soldier could ruin your career”. But it doesn’t need to be like that. And if you need evidence that even the most clichéd military-related endeavours of moving house frequently and baking endless cakes could boost your career rather than hinder it, then meet Jacqueline Rogers. The former military wife, who grew up in an RAF family, is the founder of an international network, training and development club for women. She’s also an entrepreneur and has an impressive corporate career under her belt.

But rewind back to the early 1990s and you’ll meet a single mum of two boys, newly returned to the UK from Germany with no job and zero cash to pay the mortgage. Apart from organising children’s parties, baking cakes and hosting dinner parties, Jacqueline had - since becoming a mum - done very little in the way of developing her career. As with many military spouses, she was too busy bringing up two boys and taking on tasks involved with being the wife of a NAAFI manager.

But despite having been nowhere near an office for years, Jacqueline believes it was her armed forces background, along with

a dexterity for networking and boundless energy, which got her career off the ground when her prospects were looking hopeless.

For networking, according to Jacqueline, is the key to growing a business. And it’s also incredibly helpful when developing your career.

And it’s a lot easier than we think. We all assume networking is being in a formal business setting - a meeting, conference or a board room - and offering people some business. But it’s much more than that and, indeed, it’s much easier too. Jacqueline explains: “In my experience servicemen and women, as well as wives and family members of, have got an amazing skill set to be able to network. Because they’ve been uprooted so often they have to develop relationships really quickly, or sink. If they don’t do that then they become isolated and then their career in the military would dive - but that just wouldn’t happen.”

Although Jacqueline didn’t realise it at the time, it was networking which took her career from strength to strength back in the 1990s when she found herself at rock bottom. Indeed it was a phone call from a contact which gave her the impetus to visit a recruitment agency, a move which landed her the first crucial step back on the career

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ladder. Later on a former colleague from Germany tipped her off about an opportunity to launch an apprenticeship programme at British Aerospace. It was this job which began propelling Jacqueline up the corporate ranks.

Jacqueline started her women’s business club, The Athena Network, after taking voluntary redundancy from a corporate job. As well as taking on a consultancy role with Learn Direct she did, what she calls, a ‘side hustle’ attempting to launch her own coaching business. One of the ways she tried to get business was through networking events. But her lack of experience at getting the most out of these situations, coupled with her frustration at the way they were run, meant she got little success… at first. One day, however, she attended a women’s networking event and things changed. She found the environment more comfortable and less pushy.

No one was trying to force her to buy her product, it felt supportive and it gave her an idea.

In 2006 The Athena Network was born, its aim to provide support, networking and inspiration to businesswomen. Jacqueline says: “Any franchisor will tell you that replication is the key to success because people love to be able to relate. What I realised I had created was a community where women felt comfortable attending whatever meeting they attended as the structure and style is exactly the same. The stressors drop because they are in a familiar environment and they can focus on getting the most that they want from the meeting.”

Jacqueline’s Top Five Networking Tips…

One: Define your business plan Unless you understand what your business is doing, don’t go networking. Know what it is you are selling and who you are selling to and if you don’t know then find somebody to help you out. The Athena Network does that – but not every networking organisation does.

Two: Attend every networking event with at least three objectives Why are you going there? If you don’t know, don’t go because you are wasting your time and you won’t get what it is you are looking for. Whenever I go to a networking event, one of my primary objectives is to have fun. Another is to connect and listen to how I can help someone else and third is usually connected to my current project – at the moment it is to keep my eyes and ears open for women that I can interview that have had an outstanding networking experience.

Three: Give before you receive Always look to support other people by, for example, giving testimonials. Today I left two reviews on two different pages. One for a lady who I had a reflexology treatment with and a Facebook review for a venue we use. Actively go out of your way to do something for someone.

Four: Follow up If you make a promise, follow up on it. This could be one of two things. Firstly, if somebody says they have got a lead for you – follow that up. Whether it’s a phone call or an email. Secondly, follow up on your promises. If I have said I have got a connection for someone, it’s my responsibility to make sure that connection follows through. Which leads on to…

Five: Take 100% responsibility for all your networking activity I believe that everybody is a really powerful creator. And if we assume we are a powerful creator we create those outcomes. We go into networking events taking 100% responsibility.

This is something, Jacqueline admits, that harks back to her military days. “One of the key things for me being a daughter of a serviceman was that the transition was always smooth because everything looked the same - houses, furniture.” Yet another positive trait the armed forces has gifted Jacqueline.

And for anyone who thinks planning and executing kids parties, baking and running the local NCT group are worthless talents - you might want to think again. For Jacqueline, quite rightly, sees these as solid skills. Indeed, she describes them as “entrepreneurial and enterprising”. And, what’s more, they could help build vital networks to boost a future business or career.

For more information on The Athena Network go to www.theathenaacademy.com

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T U o a

T C th o d

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How do I qualify for the programme?

You are eligible for the programme if you are a spouse or dependant (over the age of 16) of a Service person, Veteran or Reservist.

The University of Wolverhampton’s business start-up programme, ‘Supporting the Unsung Hero’ is specifically tailored to meet the needs of Armed Forces families and offers you FREE professional training, mentoring and advice in business management and self-employment.

The programme started in October 2013 following a successful bid to the Armed Forces Covenant LIBOR Fund for a Dependants’ Business Start-Up programme. Since then, the course and mentoring programme has been in high demand from service families of serving personnel, veterans and reservists, having already been attended by 520 delegates with an expected 740 expected to complete the programme by 2021.

‘Supporting the Unsung Hero’ is delivered through the University of Wolverhampton’s Business Solutions Centre in conjunction with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, The Ministry of Defence Hive Information Service and Forces Enterprise Network.

Delegates are offered a dedicated four-day business start-up training course, where you will learn and develop the skills required to run a business and understand your legal, financial and tax obligations, basic record keeping, marketing and how to write that all important business plan.

Once enrolled on the course you also benefit from a closed online forum to encourage peer support and interaction with other delegates, some members have started local business networking groups and have formed alliances to work together and share their skills to develop new products and services.

The University of Wolverhampton run courses throughout the UK at MoD bases from Scotland to Portsmouth and overseas in Cyprus, Belgium, Germany and Gibraltar.

Mentoring and seminars are also delivered on-line via Skype or Facebook to make the course as accessible as possible and to allow for service mobility and family commitments.

Sarah Walker, ‘Supporting the Unsung Hero’ Project Manager and Lead Trainer, said: “We are proud to be leading this programme and are very grateful to HSBC for continuing to fund the venture which forms an integral part of our range of opportunities for those who are currently serving in the Armed Forces their families and wider military community.

“This programme has the potential to create in excess of 700 hundred new business startups by the end of 2021, significantly boosting our economy on a local and national scale with the course being delivered overseas in military locations such as Cyprus, Gibraltar and Germany.”

Sally Wagstaff, a former Nurse in the Royal Navy and military spouse, enrolled on the first programme in October 2013. Since completing the course she has opened a state-ofthe-art laser hair removal clinic in Lichfield and has since built on her success, opening a further salon at Aston Wood Golf and Country Club.

She said: “I simply wouldn’t have started my business without the Supporting the Unsung Hero Business programme. The course has been so important, from giving me the confidence to launch to teaching me the skills to run and importantly grow my business. I recommend the programme highly.”

Delegates of the programme have shown real enterprise and dedication and have formed a unique business community further extended by support from the Forces Enterprise Network.

If you have an idea and are thinking of starting-up in business or you are looking for inspiration on how to turn your skills and experience into a new, self-employed career, contact our friendly team or ask to speak to one of our course ambassadors to find out how the programme can help you.

Will I be guaranteed a place?

We will do our best to ensure that you are allocated a place on the Cohort for the dates you request. This will of course depend on course numbers and availability. We run courses throughout the UK at MoD bases including Scotland and overseas in Cyprus, Belgium, Germany and Gibraltar to make the course as accessible as possible.

How long does the programme last?

Each Cohort will run for 10 months including 4 days of class based training with an experienced team of business advisers and dedicated one to one mentoring delivered either in person or virtually.

When does the programme start?

There are a range of start dates for each cohort to fit your requirements, contact the SUH team to find out the best course date and location to suit you.

Do I have to pay for the programme?

There is no cost to participate in the programme as funding has been provided by the Armed Forces Covenant (LIBOR) Fund and the HSBC Bank (travel, accommodation and expenses incurred are not included).

What type of business do I need to set up?

The type of business you set up is entirely up to you and could range from professional business consultancy, graphic design and website development to handmade gifts, bespoke art, catering services and personal lifestyle or fitness instructors.

You may have a couple of business ideas and wish to use the course to determine the most viable option or you may not have a specific business in mind but wish to understand the basic principles of business start-up and gain inspiration from others.

Can I set up in business with a family member or friend?

Yes, you are able to set up a joint business with a family member or

friends although only the eligible Spouse or Dependant can attend the training course.

Will I be eligible if I’ve already started a business?

Yes, you can still participate in the programme if you already have a business in its infancy or need to develop your understanding of basic business management.

Who will be mentoring me?

A team of friendly business experts from the University of Wolverhampton’s Business Solutions Centre will be undertaking the mentoring. You will be assigned an individual mentor for the duration of the programme. You will also be able to access a closed Facebook page for delegates only which has proven to be a great source of peer-topeer support.

MIDLANDS MILITARY CATCHMENT

’Supporting the Unsung Hero’ FAQ’s

Are the training and mentoring session’s flexible?

The dates of the four-day courses and group mentoring sessions are fixed.

Individual mentoring sessions are flexible to fit in with you and can be delivered via Skype, phone or face to face.

Am I obliged to set up a business by the end of the programme?

There is no obligation to set up a business by the end of the programme, but ideally you will have a business up and running, as this is the aim of the programme. You may find that you can use the knowledge you will gain from the course in other career paths too.

How can I find out more?

You can find out more by contacting our dedicated team at the University of Wolverhampton’s Business Solutions Centre and via your local HIVE. We also have a number of current and past course delegates who act as Ambassadors for the programme and we can put you in touch if you have questions you wish to ask a course participant.

What will I achieve at the end of the programme?

You will have all the tools and information required to give your business the best possible start. A certificate will also be awarded to demonstrate your completion of the course and you will become part of a unique group of like-minded people from the military community.

For more information please contact Sarah Walker at the University of Wolverhampton’s Business Solutions 41 Centre on 01902 321272 or email: suh@wlv.ac.uk Just for Her issue 15 2017.indd 41

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>> FASHION LOOKBOOK Monsoon Polly Trouser £59

Velvet Tie Blouse £45

Next Tailored Suit, Price TBC

Lipsy Button Blazer £65

Suits

Red Double Breasted Blazer £38 Suit Trousers £25

A versatile suit is worth investing in. Fabric and cut are key for the perfect fit. Break the trousers and jacket up and it becomes even more versatile. With the right accessories, it can see you through more than the working week…

Jacket £89 Trousers £79.99

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Principles by Ben de Lisi Jacket £55 Blouse £32 Shirt £32 Trousers £35 Faith Mules £45

Topshop Jacket, Price TBC

Topshop Jumpsuit, Price TBC

you

F&F Checked Blazer £28 F&F Checked Trousers £18

White Victoriana Blouse £26

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>> FASHION LOOKBOOK

party!

It ’ s time to

Main Image: George at ASDA Sequin Shift Dress £30 1. Very Embellished Dress £150 2. Miss Selfridge Electric Blue 80’s Mini Dress £42 3. V by Very Jacquard Star One Shoulder Dress £55 4. Matalan £22 5. M&S Collection Sequin Dress £89 6. Very Bow Dress £65 7. V by Very Velvet Animal Detail Dress £45 8. Debenhams Siren by Giles £120 9. Debenhams Debut £99

ALL

DRESSED Just for Her issue 15 2017.indd 44

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>> FASHION LOOKBOOK Debenhams J by Jasper Conran £125

Debenhams Red Herring Shirt £25

Debenhams Star by Julien Macdonald £59

Topshop Belt, Price TBC

BUCKLE UP The waist-cinching, figure-flattering

waist belt is back - what’s not to like?!

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River Island Pippa One Shoulder Top £35

20/09/2017 11:42

Oasis Funnel Long Line Knit £38

Marks & Spencer, Price TBC

Marks & Spencer, Price TBC

Matalan £18

Tonal Time

Primark Uk Nude Brogue £12

House Of Fraser Kate Tie Wrap Dress Black £99

New Look Brown Panel Faux Fur £54.99

Marks & Spencer, Price TBC

M&S Collection Jumper £39.50

Debenhams J by Jasper Conran, Price TBC George at ASDA Red Block Jumper Dress £18

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>> FASHION LOOKBOOK

Very Velvet Jumpsuit £50

Dorothy Perkins Navy Textured Lurex Jumper £28

Debenhams J by Jasper Conran £49

M&S Collection Dress £45 Tu at Sainsbury's Chain Detail Loafers £18

FEELING

BLUE Marks & Spencer Autograph Shirt £69

George at ASDA Navy Ruffle Jumper £16 Sequin skirt £14

George at ASDA Blue Coat £30

Primark UK Platform Boot £16

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M&S Autograph Top £39.50 Trousers, Price TBC M&S Collection Cobalt Court £35

Debenhams Faith Boots Blue £59

Topshop Tailored Trousers £39

La Redoute Blouse, Price TBC Primark UK Navy Stud Ballerina £10

George at ASDA Blue Knot Velour Dress £16

Topshop Knitted Jumper, Price TBC

V by Very Wave Frilly Slip On Plimsoll £25

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MIDLANDS MILITARY CATCHMENT

Yasmine Achtar imaan.nasir@yahoo.co.uk

Custom Keepsakes www.facebook.com/ eyeofcarakeepsakes

www.eyeofcara keepsakes.etsy.com

Made from your treasured fabrics!

07415 490672

Thrapston Road, Roa Brook Farm, Ellington, Huntingdon, PE28 0AE

www.beeingcrafty.co.uk

A popular l ffabric b shop h in E Ellington, on the outskirts of Huntingdon

Francesca Vigliotti Global chesy_007@hotmail.com

Bee Crafty is a local fabric shop offering a fantastic range of patchwork fabrics, haberdashery, notions and other knitting and sewing accessories.

We also offer various courses and workshops for people from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas.

07402 909505

A wonderful place to shop for all your crafting needs! From patchwork and sewing, to crochet and embroidery

01480 891 746 | 07788 204 655| info@beeingcrafty.co.uk

FUN • FUN • FUN • FUN • FUN • FUN • FUN Our Vintage Style Horsebox Photobooth is the perfect addition for Weddings, Parties or Military Functions. Indoor Party Booth also available!

Let your guests step inside our fully refurbished Rice horse trailer, fully equipped with the latest photobooth technology and a whole host of fun props and accessories.

T N E M N I A T R E ENT

THE

PARTY!

WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE? 2 HOURS OF GAMES, FUN PRIZES TO BE WON EACH GUEST PAYS £10PP NO MORE TO PAY

WANT TO ADD A STRIPPER/TOPLESS WAITER TO YOUR NIGHT? ASK ME! HEN/BIRTHDAY/FANCY DRESS/XMAS/ BABY SHOWER/STUDENT PARTIES

Prints are fully customised for your party, with unlimited visits and two prints per group. We also provide a guest book and an online album, with free downloads for all of your guests!

weddings@hoofbooth.co.uk | Tel: 07974 613686 | www.hoofbooth.com

LOVE A GIRLY NIGHT IN? THEN BOOK ME!

MAD ANGE introduces

CALL ME ON 07597406873 Ronnie Cruwys +44 7966 230909 ronnie.cruwys@b nternet.com Iconographer Icons are a bespoke gi to offer protec on, courage and healing made to last life mes. Hand-painted in egg tempera and 23ct gold leaf on gessoed wood. www.icondiplomastudent.com

Archangel Michael

Architectural Illustrator Street scenes and urban sketches of the overlooked heritage of our towns. Limited edi on prints and originals. www.drawingthestreet.co.uk Commissions welcome.

Leek, Staffordshire

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James am m King g Discotheques

• Adult Birthday Parties • Kids Parties • Weddings • Special Celebrations You can rely on our team to bring the music so that you can really dance the night away regardless of your personal taste and budget.

For more information call us on 01189 078 272 or 07836 793 206 www.discoinreading.co.uk

MIDLANDS MILITARY CATCHMENT

The

• Experienced DJ’s • Karaoke disco • Video discos • Themed events • Image projectors • Marquee set-up • Audio & lighting equipment

Sophie Alloway Reed

SophieAR.arbonne@gmail.com | @sophiear.entrepreneur www.sophiereed.arbonne.com

Would you like to see your article published?

Just for Her are looking for interesting and relevant articles about the Service community…

If you have something you have written, ideally with pictures too, then please send your articles into justforher@forcespublishing.co.uk.

JustHer for

SUZANNE BITHELL Independent Nikken Consultant ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW BUSINESS VENTURE IN THE WELLNESS AND VITALITY INDUSTRY? I WOULD LIKE TO INVITE YOU TO FIND OUT MORE (It is illegal for a promoter or a participant in a trading scheme to persuade anyone to make a payment by promising benefits from getting others to join a scheme. Do not be mislead that high earnings are easily achieved.)

Nikken UK Limited Gloucester House Silbury Boulevard Milton Keynes MK9 2AH

CONTACT: Suzanne Bithell Mob: 07967 138720 Email: Suzanne@wakeuptochange.co.uk

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Just for Her’s

Handmade CHRISTMAS Are you getting ready for the festive season?

Spread some Christmas cheer with these sweet but simple handmade decorations, food & gift ideas‌!

Gif t in a Jar Jar gifts are all the rage on Pinterest! For a low cost but highly personal present, why not fill a jar with 52 notes of all the things you love about your partner, son, daughter, or best friend? One to open and make them smile for every week of the coming year!

Other variations of Gifts in a Jar could be Spa in a Jar - a jar filled with small pamper gifts, or Mini Bar in a Jar (one of our favourites!) where you can either fill a large jar with miniature bottles of booze or use a tin of mixer with their favourite tipple! For the crafter in your life you could fill it with crafty items? The possibilities are endless! For kids, layer ingredients for gingerbread men or chocolate chip cookies and tie the cookie cutter to the rim with pretty ribbon and write the baking instructions to a label on the side, or fill a small jar with hot chocolate powder and mini marshmallows for a warming festive treat.

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Stick Christmas Tree We think you could actually use one of these instead of a real tree! You can make these as big or small as you like (although bear in mind the bigger they are the heavier they are to hang up!).You can use old decorations to decorate, or we think it would look great just decorated with ribbons tied on.

Reindeer Family Christmas Cards

You will need: Sticks of various sizes (a good excuse for a nice winter walk!)

Brown string Small decorations such as baubles, pinecones and ribbons Super glue A larger decoration for the top of the tree, such as a star

Get the whole family involved with these fun Christmas cards!

To make them you will need: Non-toxic brown paint or ink A thin black marker pen (sharpie’s are perfect) Blank cards A red pen Letter stamps & ink (or you can hand write a message instead!)

We like the idea of each family member adding their finger print to make the reindeers heads, but you could use a different finger for each reindeer to get the different sizes if you wanted to! When the fingerprints have dried, draw on the detail to the reindeers turning one of them into Rudolph with a red nose instead of black! You can use small pom poms and googly eyes instead of drawing them on if you prefer.

You might want to have a few ‘practice’ goes on scrap paper before doing it on your actual cards! Then add your Christmas message and you’re done! Friends and family will be super impressed with these simple but really lovely cards!

Gingerbread Body Butter This gingerbread body butter is easy to make, smells DELICIOUS and will leave your skin super smooth!

We think this is great to jar up and give on its own as a gift, alongside other goodies in a pamper hamper or as a stocking filler!

Ingredients 1 /2 cup shea butter 1 /2 cup coconut oil 2 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp cinnamon 2 tsp vanilla extract Add the shea butter and coconut oil to a small saucepan and heat on a very low temperature until melted and mixed well. Remove from the heat and leave until back to room temperature. Scoop the mix into a bowl and place in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. Remove from the fridge and add the cinnamon, ginger and vanilla extract, then whip with a hand mixer for 2-3 minutes. Scoop the body butter into an airtight container such as a mason jar and seal. This will keep for around 6 months.

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First arrange your twigs and sticks into the right sizes, then take time winding them together with the string, leaving a gap of about an inch to an inch and a half between each twig. At the top of the tree, attach a separate piece of string in a loop so you are able to hang it. Next, arrange your decorations over the tree and when you are happy with them, superglue them into place.

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Healthy Homemade Dog Biscuits We can’t forget our four legged friends at Christmas! If you have a special pooch in your life, try this recipe for some healthy dog friendly treats for them.

Christmas Pudding Chocolate Truff les Forget shop brought chocolates this year and make your own to gift people instead! This mix makes around 40 of these super cute mini Christmas pud truffles.

Ingredients For the truffles: 200g milk choc chips 200g dark choc chips 300ml double cream 50g butter 1 /2 teaspoon sea salt

To decorate: 250g milk chocolate White Royal Icing Green fondant Red liquid icing/icing pen

Method

Ingredients Cooking spray 2 - 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1 cup wheat germ 1 /2 cup ground flax seed 1 tablespoon honey 3 eggs 1 /2 cup olive oil 1 cup water 1 /2 cup applesauce 1 /2 cup pumpkin puree Preheat the oven to 180C. Combine the wheat flour, wheat germ and flax seed ad set aside. In another bowl combine everything else, then pour into the dry mix and stir together well until a dough forms. Roll out onto a well floured surface to about a quarter of an inch thick. Cut out your shapes (we love the bone shape but something more festive could be fun for Christmas time!) Place about an inch apart on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray and bake for 25-30 minutes until the treats are brown and hard. Make sure they are cooled completely before giving to your pup!

1) Heat the double cream in a pan until it just starts to boil and then turn off the heat – mix in the 400g of chocolate and then the butter until it is fully combined.

2) Pour it all into a container and leave in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight.

3) Using a cup of hot water, Shape the truffles using a melon baller or two spoons to create small rounds – I dip my melon baller into the hot water each time to clean off any excess and make it easier for the mixture to drop out 4) Place back in the fridge for a couple more hours or a quick blast in the freezer so the mixture is very cold again to prevent the truffles melting when decorating.

5) Melt the chocolate for decoration and dip each truffle into it trying to keep the coating light so that not much drips off and rest on a piece of greaseproof paper – if your chocolate is fresh out of the microwave and very very hot, this might melt the truffles slightly, so be careful! Leave to set fully in the fridge – roughly 1 hour.

6) Whilst setting, cut out some little green holly leaves using a cutter – and dot on some little red balls (as shown) and leave them to harden.

7) Once the truffles are set, using some white icing – drizzle on to the truffles like the top of a Christmas Pudding (as shown in the pictures) and top with one of the little leaf decorations!

Cinnamon Stick Candles These pretty candles make wonderful gifts, they look beautiful and is there anything more Christmassy than the scent of cinnamon?! To make your own you will need cinnamon sticks, some church candles, an elastic band and some ribbon or string.You could attach small Christmas decorations to make them even more festive!

First, place the elastic band around the middle of the candle. Now slide your cinnamon sticks between the candle and elastic band to hold them in place whilst you arrange them.

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DIY Ribbon Wreath ‘Easy’ doesn’t even begin to describe just how simple this is to make. If you can cut ribbon & tie a knot then you’re all set to make your own Christmas Ribbon Wreath!

Get a selection of different coloured festive ribbon of your choice and a wire coat hanger, which will need bending into a circle. Next, cut your ribbons into lengths, tie and knot them individually around the wire and voila! A gorgeous festive wreath.

These wreaths are so versatile - for a more chunky look, try using a plain straw wreath (you can find these cheap on eBay) - wrap a thick, plain colour ribbon all around it to cover the straw, secure then tie and knot your ribbons around it.

Alternatively, go small - they make great tree ornaments too!

Why stop at Christmas decs?!

You can use different ribbons to create Halloween and Easter versions too! Or even different coloured ribbon to decorate a child’s room or nursery.

Send us pictures of your creation s, we’d love to s ee them!

When you are happy with them, cover the elastic band with your ribbon or string and tie off.You could remove the elastic band completely once you have tied together with the ribbon, it’s up to you. For a snowy Christmas look you could paint the cinnamon sticks white for a cooler feel! As the candle burns, the aroma of cinnamon will fill the room.

Remember to never leave candles unattended!

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EAST MILITARY CATCHMENT

Antioch Farm, New Road

Tel: 01526 321 955

BJ Crafts Tilney St Lawrence, Kings Lynn PE34 4QF

info@armadilloembroidery.co.uk

We are a family run business specialising in Imagination crafts products as seen on Hochanda TV. We run workshops all around the UK and could run a workshop for you on base if space is available.

www.bjcrafts.co.uk 01945 881382

Schools • Military • Industry’s • Sport Embroidery, Heat Press, Applique, Screen Printing...

Over 15 years experience in the industry and our machinist has over 16 years experience.

Jammin’ by Hannah Sterling Silver Jewellery with surprise oyster opening.

Nail wraps, Trueshine gel and NEW colour cure system.

Salon manicure at home - no drying me, no smudges.

07738234771 hannah-heppenstall@mail.com www.facebook.com/jamminnailsbyhannah www.facebook.com/jamminpearlsbyhannah www.jamminnailsbyhannah.jamberry.com

We are very competitively priced in all our products and guarantee a 7 working day turnaround on garments we supply (unless otherwise discussed), we can also digitize any logo from a jpeg or pdf file from £20 If you would like a quote or want to hear more about our services, pleases contact us

www.armadilloembroidery.co.uk

Are you looking to earn extra income? Would it help you with affording the little luxuries to treat the kids, afford a holiday?

MAGGIE ANN VINTAGE View my website www.maggieannvintage.co.uk

Whatever the reason may be, why not speak to me about joining FM World!

• Free to join • 10 day new member offers • Full support and training • 1-2-1 mentoring • Free mini starter kit if you join and hit your first promotion in your first 2 months

Message me today for FREE information Linda McNeill | linda.mcneill@googlemail.com | 07718 498993 www.lindajmcneill.com

Join the Acti Buzz with Sian @ All Things Acti!

Weight Loss Inch Loss Skin Care Make Up Hair Care Tooth Whitening Why not turn your passion in to a pay check and join us as an Acti-Labs Ambassador.

Temporary/part time/full time opportunities available all year round, with full training and support from the start!

Contact Sian today for business opportunities or product queries: E: actidermbysian@yahoo.co.uk T: 07720603492 www.joinsiansquires.co.uk

Please visit www.siansquires.co.uk for full product range.

10%

nt on discou ne li first on order

Vintage inspired dresses and fashions from the 1940s, 50s & 60s & accessories. www.facebook.com/ MaggieAnnVintage/ TTel:+44 7958740034 Email: maggieannvintage@gmail.com

Suzanne Lisa Psychic Astrologer

Excellent Reviews Phone and Email Readings includes: Birth Chart Interperetation Compatability Charts for your relationships e theamazinglisa@yahoo.co.uk m 07770 915198 “very accurate and helpful insight into my life and future” “Amazing, strongly recommended.”

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t: 07540 610 475 | e: david@focusedmassage.co.uk facebook.com/focusedmassage

Lovingly handmade Jewellery by Lilly Jewellery in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

I fix and alter pre existing jewellery as well as making new, beautiful jewellery and can make something unique for your exact requirements. Perfect for special events and gifts for everyday. www.facebook.com/ Jewellerybylilly/ www.consciouscrafties.com/ Crafties/jewellery-by-lilly/ lillyladd@outlook.com 07899 843235

EAST MILITARY CATCHMENT

Massage is one of the most powerful and ancient natural therapies on the planet. There are many different reasons why people book a Massage treatment and they range from the need to unwind and release muscular tension, to recharging our depleted energy levels and to needing a simple physical ‘de-tox’.

Work From Home Opportunity!

BUDDHA SAYS: Just as a candle cannot burn without fire,

men cannot live without a Spiritual Life.

We all have a purpose in life - mine is helping people and animals. One way I do that is by supporting Help for Heroes and military personnel and their families. I am also a Spiritual Healer.

When I discovered this special Work From Home Business in Personal Development, I not only learned how to make significant changes in my Personal Life, I also hit my income goals, which allows me to support causes close to my heart.

I enjoy helping people and animals to get well. I love what I do and I love helping other people to get started with their personal growth in this business.

Are you looking for something that will help to create your dream life? Join me in the Personal Development Industry & Earn While You Learn. Go to my website & fill in the contact form:

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To find out more please get in touch with your Consultant below:

Trudy McKnight

01590 678140 07907 336928 trudybearster@googlemail.com thebodyshopathome.com

There is no obligation to purchase.

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Christmas GIFT GUIDE foodie

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5

Stuck for Christmas gift ideas? The team at Just for Her have come up with a few great ideas, from novelty gifts to treats for the food lover, presents for the explorer as well as the homebird - we have ideas to suit them all!

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1 Debenhams Tea For One £18 2 Debenhams Cheese Knife And Slate Set £25 3 House Of Fraser Biba Marble Bar Set £50 4 Debenhams Camera Biscuit Tin £18 5 Debenhams Flavoured Coffees £10 6 Sainsbury’s Home Cafetiere £15 7 House Of Fraser Charbonnel Et Walker Sipsmith Gin Truffles £14 8 Wilkinson Cosmopolitan Infusion Set £10

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1 Accessorize Frankie Multi Stripe Boot Slipper £20 2 M&S Collection Bag £45 3 Matalan Makeup Bag, Price TBC 4 House Of Fraser Linea Gold Spot Ring Holder £6 5 M&S Collection Slipper £10 6 Debenhams Butterfly By Matthew Williamson £16 7 Very Samsung Gear S3 Classic Smart Watch £349.99 8 George At Asda Red Pom Pom Hat £ 7 9 Debenhams Faith Bag £35

4 5 1 Matalan Ceramic Welly Boot Set, Price TBC 2 Matalan Metal Bike Planter £10 3 Debenhams Yellow Bird House £12 4 Debenhams White House Plant Pot £14 5 Debenhams Shed Man Gardeners Crate £16

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1 House of Fraser Bare Minerals Go Nude Or Make A Statement Lipstick Set £30 2 Debenhams Pinapple Tangle Teaser £10 3 Debenhams The Gentleman’s Society Shave Kit £10 4 Very Babyliss Diamond Heated Smoothing & Straightening Brush £80 5 Accessorize Winter Resue Pamper Kit £15 6 Debenhams Urban Decay Naked Heat £39 7 Debenhams Marc Jacobs Daisy EDT 100ml 10th Anniversary Edition £78 8 House of Fraser Howick Harris Tweed Washbag £45 9 House of Fraser Jimmy Choo Man EDT 50ml £44

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8 9 1 Debenhams Popcorn Holder And Drinks Movie Night In £15 2 Debenhams Game Of Thrones Monopoly £30 3 Debenhams Waterproof Camera £60 4 Matalan Balloon Modelling Kit, Price TBC 5 House of Fraser Desktop Ping Pong £7 6 Debenhams Tropical Pong £6 7 Very Name A Star Gift Box £17.99 8 Debenhams Man Cave Sign £10 9 Debenhams Mini Arcade Machine £25

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8 1 House of Fraser Gentlemens Hardware Multi-tool Chain Kit £17 2 Sainsbury’s Home Notebook With Pen £8 3 Sainsbury’s Home Backpack £15 4 House of Fraser Linea Blue Globe £65 5 House of Fraser Howick Harris Tweed Travel Wallet and Luggage Tag £38 6 House of Fraser Howick Faux Fur Lines Trapper Hat £25 7 Matalan Around The World Game, Price TBC 8 House of Fraser Howick Structured Holdall £155

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6 1 Very Light Up Cinematic Message Board £14.99 2 Debenhams Initial Cups £14 3 Very Lily-Flame Silent Night Tin Candle £9.99 4 Debenhams To Do Book £12 5 Wilkinson Wilko Family Framed Picture 30 x 30cm £10 6 GettingPersonal.co.uk Personalised Cushion With Home Postcode £19.99 7 GettingPersonal.co.uk Personalised Doormat £26.99

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SOUTH MILITARY CATCHMENT

Imagine building your own jewellery business whilst making friends.

Imagine a job that adapts to your lifestyle.

Become a Stella & Dot Stylist …

If joining is not for you but you’d like to host a trunk show and shop for free + 40% off, Aimi Nicastro – 07958 138069 I love helping my customers get free jewels. aimi@nicastro.co.uk Ready to find out more? www.stelladot.co.uk/aimi Get in touch.

Aloma James Events Management Event Planner Face Painter Children’s Tattooist Unbeatable prices Organise fundraising events, festivals and charities.

Organise Parties, Weddings and any other events.

07768269327 aloma.21@hotmail.co.uk Aloma James Management

Cosy Corner Crafts Wool • Material • Haberdashery Crafts • Outdoor Accessories Knitting & Crochet Classes 4 Fore Street, South Brent, TQ10 9BQ

07427 964240

cosycornercrafts@gmail.com

westcornwallhypnosis.com Fill your senses emilydavid@westcornwallhypnosis.com | 07412 811752

“Your thoughts are your future” Emily David Clinical Hypnotherapist With my help I will guide you to make the changes that you want. Hypnosis does not perform miracles, however it can help by targeting direct areas of the mind that may need a little re-wiring!

The experience of being in a state of hypnosis is very calm and relaxing.

You will not be asleep and you will be aware of your surroundings and the noises around you .

I also offer SKYPE appointments for those who are unable to attend a face to face meeting or have travel difficulties.

I am also available to provide talks on the benefits and uses of hypnosis to organisations large or small.

Emma Tregenza - Director Independent Scentsy Consultant

07453267260

emmatregenza@hotmail.com www.emmatregenza.scentsy.co.uk

Hot & Tasty Burger Van COLOUR ANALYSIS Learn which colour clothes, and make-up suit you.

You will never make any more mistakes and will always feel totally confident with what you are wearing.

Phone Erica Carrick on 07967 352034 Email eccarrick@hotmail.com

Based in Southampton but not restricted to, this high quality mobile catering trailer is available to hire for all types of events where hot food is required.

If you are looking for a high quality burger van to hire to attend an event you are organising then please get in contact on 07799 767710 or natasha@burgervan.net www.burgervan.net

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SOUTH MILITARY CATCHMENT

www.full-mellow.co.uk Contact @full-mellow.co.uk www.facebook.com/fullmellow

Natural Handmade Bath and Body Cosmetics Beautiful designs, Wonderful fragrance Natural, vegan, cruelty free

Estampa estampa31291@gmail.com

07958 249781 65

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O Christmas is around the corner…!

There’s more to see, try, touch, taste, enjoy and buy at The Festive Gift Fair.

Christmas means gifts for your loved ones, hanging decorations on the tree, excitement on children’s faces, party games, movies by the fire and a table fit for a festive feast…!

All of which can be found as this fabulous Christmas Shopping Fair returns to the NEC, 16-19 November, with loads of new and exciting stalls.

WIN! 20 pasirtos of ticket y! give awa

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ften the most time-consuming part is finding clever presents. There’s no need to be stuck for ideas, start with a trip to the Festive Gift Fair and you’ll see how fun and easy Christmas shopping can be! From the moment you arrive, you’ll be caught up in the excitement of the day, exploring 350 stalls overflowing with thousands upon thousands of cracking gift ideas and decorations that don’t cost the earth. The variety is HUGE, with presents for all ages – from babies to teenagers, and parents to grandparents.

When your bags are full, you can drop them off at the Present crèche and continue to shop, or stop for a bite to eat in one of the four sparkly catering/entertainment areas, where you can enjoy watching a great line-up of live musical acts – to get you rocking round the Christmas Tree! No wonder The Festive Gift Fair is one of the most popular Christmas shopping events in the UK! We’ve picked out a few of our favourite NEW stalls…

EAT, DRINK, AND BE MERRY! Raise a glass! That’s the spirit! Gather family and friends around a festive table and enjoy! Christmas is the one time of year when everyone can over indulge a little. At The Festive Gift Fair you’ll find a whole array of delicious artisan food and drink that you can sample, before you buy.

Stalls include: URBAN HERB - Design your own dried herb gift bags.

BOOZY BELLES VINTAGE COCKTAILS - Antique style bottles full of cocktails and vintage infused spirits with a retro twist!

DRIVER’S FOODS - Beautiful jars of accompaniments for your cold buffet or Ploughman’s.

TOFTLY TREATS - Gorgeous ribbon tied jars of handmade chocolate buttons with a twist and winter wedding favours!

THE GOURMET PIZZA CHOCOLATE CO. - Not your average pizza, these look-a-likes are made from Chocolate!

CRUSTY PIE’S - Pork pies for all occasions DOG BREATH BREWERY - Hand crafted ales HARPERLEY HAMPERS - Bespoke hampers.

BONBONNIERE - Sign up for a chocolate workshops for adults, children and hen parties with the Midland’s best chocolatier.

BARBOURNE CIDER CO. - Try the delicious hot and spicy mulled cider!

WOODHOUSE FARM - Spit Roast pork, slowly roasted to produce really crispy crackling and succulent meat, carved hot in a bap.Yum!

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GIFTS FOR THE KIDS...

Hold your breath, count to three and you’ll be in a world of imagination! At the Fair, you’ll find loads of clever stocking fillers, toys and games to keep tots and school children amused for hours…!

EASY READ TIME TEACHER - Fun, educational clocks and watches.

HEADZ AND HANDZ - Engaging puppets, puzzles and craft and science projects.

ART 2 COLOUR - A wide range of T-shirt designs, from zoo animals to fairies, with crayons supplied, to colour in and wear.

COOKIE CRUMBLES - Home Baking Sets, perfect for aspiring little chefs!

OAKLEY’S BOOK TREE - Doodling, colouring, drawing, reading, activity and sticker books by the popular Usborne Book brand.

THE RUBY RANGE - Commission, design and personalise your own Rag Doll

GIFTS FOR HIM...

Buying presents for Chaps can sometimes be a challenge! At The Festive Gift Fair, you’ll find Whisky, woollies, watches, clever gadgets and silly stocking fillers…

VINTAGE COMIC SHOP - A huge range of highly collectable comics - they look great framed too!

TRIPLE X TRADING - For the DIY fanatic, demonstrating their ‘One Drill Bit Drills All’.

DAVID SHIELDS - Football stadium photographer.

DIRECT BEERS - Giving good beer a bad name with novelty labels!

JARDIN DE FRANCE - For green-fingered men - ratchet pruners! An indispensable tool that performs the cutting action in stages.

CARMEN IMPORTS - Simple yet stylish, foldaway glasses.

EVERYMAN RACING - Bespoke driving experiences.

COWANZINGA - High quality copies of film scripts with signatures.

GIFTS FOR THE LADIES IN YOUR LIFE!...

Pamper your Mum, Grandma, Sister, Best friend, Wife or Girlfriend with a special present this Xmas...

EVELYN WINTER - Jewellery boutique MINIMUM MOUSE - A treasure trove of vintage clothing JO DOWNS GLASS - Every piece of glass is handmade PERFECT TIPPLE - unique sparkling wine infused with 23 carat gold flakes! Guaranteed to be a talking point!

RANFIRE DESIGN - Selling a clever new fashion accessory that is both beautiful and versatile - a unique Jewellery Clasp that can be used with edge-to-edge jackets and pashminas.

BUG – Handmade jewellery collection imagine a tiny silver Marmite or Nutella pot or Heinz beans can or wishbone on a necklace or charm bracelet…! continues over page >> 67

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HEALTH AND BEAUTY TREATS PRIMA MAKEUP’S - Super sparkly pressed glitter cosmetic range.

BOOZI BODY CARE - Cocktail inspired bath and body care range.

SOLEMATE’S - Liquid orthotic shoe insoles, which increase circulation and support through their unique massaging system.

CRAFT AND DESIGNER MAKERS THE SUNFLOWER SHOP -A one stop shop for sewing and knitting gifts.

BETTY BAY DESIGN – Beautiful, original homeware collection.

CHARLOTTE CLARK DESIGNER MAKER - Hand decorated bone china ornaments, Bunny Teapots and cake stands.

RACHEL BLACKWELL ARTIST AND ILLUSTRATOR – Children’s illustrations.

Find out for yourself why so many people love shopping at The Festive Gift Fair and return every year!

ADD A LITTLE MAGIC THIS CHRISTMAS! You’ll find plenty of inspiration at The Festive Gift Fair. Go mad with the decorations!

Dressing the tree is just the start! It’s time to dress your table, your hall, your mantelpiece with lots of twinkling fairy lights, flickering candles and loads of greenery.

TREASURE TREE - Exquisite glass tree decorations, hand blown and hand decorated.

GIFTS KINGDOM - Specialising in large snow globes and intricate battery operated Christmas scenes that will delight all ages.

JORMAE POURRI - Sweet smelling traditional Christmas decorations.

ENTERTAINMENT WHILE YOU SHOP While you are browsing and shopping at the Fair, you can enjoy a whole line-up of FANTASTIC musical entertainment with four stage areas to get you rocking into the Christmas spirit! Santa will be there too, along with a band of Christmas characters.

WIN TICKETS Just for Her has teamed up with The Festive Gift Fair to give away

20 pairs of tickets!

To be in with a chance of winning these fabulous tickets send you name, address and telephone number to competitions@forcespublishing.co.uk or Forces & Corporate Publishing Ltd, Hamblin House, Hamblin Court, Rushden, Northamptonshire NN10 0RU. Closing date: Fri 3rd Nov.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NO W and get ready for a brilliant, fun day Christmas Shopping.

The Fair is open daily 09.30 – 17.00 from Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th November at National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. Adult tickets from just £9.00.

For much more information, list of exhibitors, video, show highlights and the musical entertainment programme, visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk Book by Phone, call Ticket Factory Hotline on 0844 581 0808/0809 or Book online at www.theticktfactory.com 68

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NATIONAL

The Fountain for Health Complementary therapies for you in Teignmouth

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Acupuncture, Aromatherapy, Counselling, Healing, Homeopathy, Hopi Ear Candling, Hypnotherapy, Indian Head Massage, Massage in Pregnancy, Massage/Remedial Massage, Metamorphic Technique, Reflexology, Nutrition Advice, Reiki, Seated Acupuncture Massage, Specialist Baby Massage and classes, Sports Massage Book your appointment: 01626 777729 Visit online: http://www.thefountainforhealth.com/

To find out more please get in touch with your Consultant below:

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There is no obligation to purchase.

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I’m dreaming of a… GREEN Christmas?! Give a gift to the planet this festive season by making your Christmas as eco-friendly as possible!

AZ to

of

Enjoying a

GREEN Christmas

d bc e a

Artificial Trees

Artificial trees are not necessarily the greener option! Although they last for much, much longer they are often made from plastic, aren’t recyclable and have probably been shipped from a long distance. Choosing a real tree from a sustainable source is a much greener option, they remove carbon from the atmosphere when growing and you could choose a tree with roots so it can be replanted in the garden and brought back inside next Christmas.

Defrost

Defrosting your freezer before all the Christmas indulgence will make sure it is working more efficiently and create more space to store left over food so it doesn’t go to waste.

Cards

Batteries

New gifts at Christmas often means needing a stash of batteries for new toys, games and gadgets.

Regular batteries contain toxic chemicals, do not biodegrade and can be difficult to recycle. Using rechargeable batteries is better for the environment and cheaper in the long run, too!

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Christmas cards have a relatively short shelf life and although it’s a lovely thing to send and receive it doesn’t have the most eco-friendly footprint! Instead of traditional cards you could opt for an e-card, or if that seems a little impersonal you could send a Christmas postcard instead which whilst not perfect, is a much greener option than the usual card-andenvelope.

Eco-Friendly Bags

Before you head out of the door for the Christmas shop make sure you’ve got a stash of bags with you to avoid having to use more plastic ones!

20/09/2017 11:46

d

f

Food Shopping

With Christmas food shopping it’s easy to go overboard and according to statistics we throw away tonnes more food than normal over the Christmas period. To lessen waste, put extra thought into what you really need and will use and where possible, shop locally to reduce the carbon footprint of your Christmas feast.

h

Heating

g Gifts

For greener gift giving this year why not make your own to give to loved ones using recycled items? If craft isn’t your thing you could buy an experience day, or gift them some rainforest to protect. Or check out what’s available online from planet-friendly organisations such as www.protecttheplanet. co.uk who have a whole range of lovely gifts available.

Heating up the house on cold winter days can be a chore, and we often find ourselves shivering the minute the heating clicks off. Make some energy efficient changes by blocking drafts, insulating pipes, purchasing some throws and blankets for the sofa to snuggle up under in the evenings and keep curtains shut to help keep the warmth in.

i

Involve the Kids

j

Involving the kids in your green Christmas practices and teaching them about ways to help the environment at all times of the year will be life lessons that stick with them!

Jumpers

Instead of turning the heating up, to save energy, get yourself a Christmas jumper - stylish and practical!

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p k Kill the Lights

It’s a great way to get into the festive spirit, using lights to brighten up your house and tree, but if you do use them remember to only switch them on when it’s dark and to turn them off before you go to bed! Not many people will be about to appreciate the giant flashing Santa on the roof at 3am!

l

Packaging

Lots of gifts we buy have excessive and unnecessary amounts of packaging. Try to buy items that have less, or if that’s not possible encourage the gift recipient to recycle what they can!

mq

o n r Local

Buying gifts and food from local companies boosts the local economy and keeps the products’ carbon footprint down too.

Money

It can be easy to panic buy and purchase gifts just for the sake of it.

You might find it easier to gift those you care about some money instead of a gift they might not use that will go to waste.

Organic

Neighbours

If you find yourself inundated with bubble baths and soaps, or have been given gifts that you don’t want and won’t use, share them with your neighbours, or take them to charity shops to stop them ending up in a landfill or going to waste.

Just for Her issue 15 2017.indd 72

Making an effort to buy organic clothes, food and gifts reduces your Christmas carbon footprint by huge amounts. When less harmful toxins and pesticides are used to produce the things we buy, the better it is for the environment.

Recycle

On average, over the Christmas period, families will throw out an additional 5 sacks of rubbish. Make sure you recycle what you can!

Quality Over Quantity

When buying presents, especially for children, it can be tempting to want to wow them with a big gift.

Remember when considering buying that gigantic tub of sweets or ginormous Christmas lolly pop that it may be a novelty for 5 minutes but what’s the likelihood most of it will end up thrown away?

Reduce waste and buy something small but special instead.

20/09/2017 11:46

u st w Upcycle

Switch Off

While it might be hard with all the electronic gifts our kids and us receive for Christmas, making some time to switch off and enjoy some family time by the firelight will give you a warm fuzzy feeling and save energy!

Traditions

vz Start some green Christmas traditions that you can keep going annually.

Buying a real Christmas tree with roots that you can watch grow and bring inside to decorate every year, spending some time making or upcycling gifts instead of buying from shops, or taking a Christmas family photo to email to relatives instead of sending cards can be fun to look forward to every year.

Vegetarian

Try going vegetarian or vegan for your Christmas lunch! According to many experts, including The Soil Association, food is the biggest way we impact the planet.

Opting for a meat free and dairy free lifestyle cuts your Xmas Dinner carbon If you always end up with heaps of food left over footprint after your annual Christmas dinner, you could by invite round some elderly or lonely neighbours to over share your feast. Not only will you be brightening half. up someone’s Christmas day but you will also be reducing your food waste!

xy Year Ahead

With the New Year just around the corner, make it your resolution to live greener for 2018!

Just for Her issue 15 2017.indd 73

Why not upcycle decorations for your tree and house instead of buying new ones? Charity shops and eBay are a great place to get discount, vintage & second hand decorations that still have loads of festive spirit left in them for you to enjoy!

Spruce up some tatty old baubles with a bit of PVA glue and glitter!

Wrapping

Wrapping up gifts might look great but overall it’s an incredibly wasteful use of paper. As an alternative, try to use recyclable or reusable methods of wrapping such as nice fabric shopping bags, gift tins or recycled paper (and remember to recycle all your paper too!).

Zzzz

After all the good you’ll have done for the planet making small changes for a greener Christmas, kick back with a sherry and enjoy a Christmas snooze!

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SOUTH MILITARY CATCHMENT

The unique touch of Zero Balancing brings a clearer flow through the body, helping release held tension from both body and mind and induces deep relaxation and harmony.

Enhances: Pain reduction Recovery from injury Posture and flexibility Relaxation Emotional harmony Personal progression Wellbeing

DIANA WEST cert. ZB 07973 640544

Website: www.kingstonpilatesstudio.co.uk Email: diana.west@kingstonpilatesstudio.co.uk

• Mobile discos with award finalist professional DJ’s • All occasions: weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, company parties etc.

• Awesome lighting, sound and set-up • Unique dance floor camera and personal photo screens • Music request website • Personal contact with DJ throughout • Theming, ideas and related party services and equipment • Range of packages to suit your budget

Contact Andy to chat about your event.

07786 663223 or andy@redawnpromotions.com

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“From the moment we first talked, we just clicked and I knew you completely understood what my vision was and you’d do anything and everything to make it a reality. You’re just an absolute star!”

Finding Your Balance

People who receive Zero Balancing may also move into a new state of awareness from which old patterns and habits in the body and mind may be more readily released. This can manifest as noticeable changes in the way physical structure and movement are experienced or as a shift in inner awareness so that new opportunities and choices become apparent and a general sense of positivity prevails.

Get back on track with Zero Balancing

What Happens During A Zero Balancing Session?

What is Zero Balancing (ZB)?

ZB is a gentle yet powerful hands-on method of balancing body energy with body structure. Using finger pressure and held stretches, it invites the release of tension accumulated deep within the body. ZB provides a point of stillness around which the body can relax, giving an opportunity to let go of unease and pain and experience a new level of wellbeing.

It promotes a deeper sense of physical and emotional harmony, allowing our own natural healing process to work more effectively. ZB benefits a wide range of people and has extensive applications in health and in personal development.

How did Zero Balancing originate?

Dr. Fritz Smith, an osteopath, physician and acupuncturist, developed the principles of Zero Balancing in 1975. He understood the importance of integrating mainstream Western scientific approaches to body structure with concepts of energy and healing used routinely in the East.

Zero Balancers* are also healthcare professionals in other fields.

The ZBAUK organises the thorough training program that leads to accreditation as a Certified Zero Balancer.

The following are some of the areas in which Zero Balancing may be especially useful: Stress Reduction Zero Balancing is an effective and gentle way of dealing with accumulated stress in the body and in the mind.

People feel relaxed, refreshed and invigorated after a session, more able to understand and deal with the causes of the stress.

Body Pain Pain usually occurs in those areas where energy flow is blocked or weakened, commonly in areas of tension or overuse and sometimes direct injury. Zero Balancing restores energy flow which can remove the causes of pain and improve body awareness. There is a corresponding increase in flexibility, range and performance.

Zero Balancing is hands-on bodywork where the client lies fully clothed on his or her back on the therapist’s couch. A short health history will be taken before the session starts. A session may take anywhere between 25 and 45 minutes.

Flexibility and Posture Zero Balancing evaluates and improves the function of the joints working towards optimum balance and efficiency in their relationship with each other and with the whole body. This encourages natural realignment and improved posture.

Reparative Touch Natural responses to touch can become distorted by events such as trauma, abuse or prolonged physical or emotional pain. Zero Balancing establishes a clear interface between the therapist and the client in which the boundaries of touch and communication are distinct and non-intrusive. The safety of this respectful connection enables the client to reclaim their body and rediscover the positive aspects of human touch.

Personal Process ZB can facilitate the release of outdated mental habits and patterns of emotional responses. Unresolved issues from our personal history may be held in the body and act as obstacles to personal development. ZB can help access and clear these obstructions, strengthening our ability to adapt to change and to reconnect with our essential selves- ‘back in balance’ General Wellbeing Zero Balancing generates an active and conscious state of well-being. Pleasurable in itself, it can provide a foundation for continuing good health. If you feel good, Zero Balancing offers you the opportunity to feel even better.

It is recommended that a person has three sessions to begin with and then decide with their practitioner what frequency would serve them best. Some people continue to have ZB regularly, while others find it beneficial at times when they need to be functioning at their best or at times of stress or transitional periods in their lives.

About Me My name is Diana West and I work as a certified Zero Balancer in my Pilates and holistic practice in Kingston upon Thames.

I have almost 25 years experience working in the health and fitness industry and have a particular interest in the mind and body connection and how we function and feel about ourselves in relationship to our personal life events and conditioning factors experienced I practice ZB as a therapy in itself to enable clients to be the best they can be physically, emotionally, mentally etc during particular life events or simply to enhance their experience of everyday life and promote their sense of wellbeing and inner calmness.

I also use ZB tools alongside my teaching of Pilates and movement or massage therapy to facilitate better body awareness or mindfulness during the client’s session.

For further details or to book a session contact: Diana West on Mob: 07973 640 544 email: diana.west@kingstonpilatesstudio.co.uk Website: www.kingstonpilatesstudio.co.uk

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Your colour and styling consultations with me will be a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

I also offer personal shopping and wardrobe planning, parties, workshops and Bespoke experiences.

SOUTH MILITARY CATCHMENT

I’m Julie and I am a Beauty Coach and Image Consultant at Styling For The New You and I am passionate about inspiring and empowering people to look and feel fabulous. It may be that you are starting or returning to work, working towards a promotion, a busy mum, dating again, planning a wedding or event or even as a present to yourself or a loved one.

w http://www.juliebrooker.co.uk t 07854679999 e julie.brooker@icloud.com

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Book a session and get the second one half price. A session lasts for 1-1.5 hours and costs £95 inc Vat. Quote ‘Just for Her’ for this discount!

Book Now - Call Kim today on 01483 855098 or email kim@kimnosis.com

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Unique hand made brooches, cards and Textile collage using vintage fabrics and hand embroidery. Commissions undertaken. Workshops available. Please contact:

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Any cake, any design, any occasion! mercysamuel@virginmedia.com | 07851130780

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SOUTH MILITARY CATCHMENT Down on the alpaca farm in Devon, there are lots of beautiful babies and their dams grazing the fields whilst in the barn fleece grading and sorting is underway.

The fleece will end up as soft, warm and luxurious knitting yarns and our Posh Socks range made from the fleeces of alpacas farmed all over Britain and processed in the traditional mills in the north of England.

The Posh Socks, a walking sock, a ribbed sock for everyday and a lounge sock for padding around the house and in bed are wonderfully warm and hard wearing. Once tried never forgotten, honestly!

Rachel Hebditch and Chas Brooke have been breeding alpacas for twenty years after very different careers - in television and professional audio. We run three businesses, Classical MileEnd Alpacas for breeding and animal sales; Classical Publishing produces a full colour quarterly, Alpaca World magazine and the yarn business UK Alpaca.

Alpacas are South American camelids descended from the wild vicuna and are bred for their fleece. Their cousins, the llamas, much bigger animals, were bred from the wild guanaco, and traditionally were the 4x4 of the Andes.

Alpacas are calm, easy going animals that stay out in the ld allll year, eat ea grass and fields hay, have no desire to a possess escape and pad soft padded feet that p do not poach the grou ground.

There ar alpaca are h herds all over th UK from the O Orkney to Co Cornwall.

Our yarn company, UK Alpaca, buys in around 10,000 kilos of fleece every year from British breeders and it is graded by hand as it is all about the softness of the fleece. There is plenty of natural colour from pure white through the creams, fawns, browns and greys to a true black.

Once graded, it is shipped up to the Bradford area where it starts its long journey through scouring, top making, spinning, dyeing and balling.

Designers and shops buy the yarn wholesale and we sell to retail customers on line and through around ten big knitting shows that we attend every year.

There are over 40 patterns specially commissioned from designers for our yarn.

Everything from jumpers, ponchos, cardigans, shawls, gloves, hats and scarves.

This is an ongoing process with more patterns going up on the website every season.

You can find our yarns and patterns at www.ukalpaca.com and our advert in this edition has a code for a generous discount.

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SOUTH MILITARY CATCHMENT

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Tel: 07990 776718 www.sandiedoylehypnotherapy.co.uk sandie@sandiedoylehynoptherapy.co.uk • FEARS & PHOBIAS • SMOKING • NAIL BITING

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Tel: 01462 337767 www.RedBerryCrafts.co.uk www.facebook.com/redberrycrafts RedBerryCraftsUK.etsy.com

We supply a wide range of craft blanks in MDF and Plywood - Pyrography blanks – MDF and Plywood shapes and embellishments Custom cut orders for all occasions – wedding signs and decorations.

And, because we can’t resist making new items, we always have a selection of decorations, signs and one off designs for sale.

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YOU REALLY CAN HAVE IT ALL WITH ANN SUMMERS MESSAGE ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BOOKING A PARTY OR JOINING MY TEAM OR TO PLACE AN ORDER

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Teresa Perrot My name is Teresa Perrot, or as friend call me Tess. I am an independent Jamberry Consultant as well as a stay at home mum. I joined Jamberry on launch day in the UK on 5th April 2016. Jamberry is a US company that sells innovative Nail Wraps, TrushineGel, ColourCure, Nail Care Products and Foot Care products. I can work from home online by doing Online Parties, or by going out and about.

I can do coffee mornings, one to ones, Mummy and me parties. I am looking for ladies that love to get paid once a week and then bonus pay on the 10th of the month.

Do you need an extra bit of cash in your life?

Or would you like to get paid to have pretty nails?

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tessperrott1970.jamberry.com Mob: 07711865135 Email: tessperrott1970@msn.com

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Wiltshire sales agent for Vivien Kondor London.

We specialise in colour cosmetics and nail polishes, offering a large variety of nail polishes that are all 5 free, high pigmented and vegan friendly. Our polishes will last up to 14 day when using our three in one, base top and hardener formulation. We also have a water permeable range too which is halal certificated.

Our colour cosmetics cater for all skin tones, are cruelty free, & our lipsticks are vegan friendly too.

Find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/vkbyjen or visit

www.jenniferbreakspear.vivienkondor.com No postage cost anywhere within the UK

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CITIES A TO Z

Luxembourg

Although a small country - covering less than 1,650 square kilometres and with a population of a little more than 500,000 - Luxembourg (or in full, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg) delivers considerable diversity.

While many of the country’s major attractions lie in vibrant Luxembourg City, the old quarter of which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Luxembourg’s many small towns are lovely. It’s also an easy country to travel around, whether on foot in the capital city, on a driving tour through the picturesque countryside, or town-hopping by train. Old fortresses and beautiful castles compliment the scene, making it a popular tourist destination that is frequently visited in combination with surrounding countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands…

THE OLD QUARTER There’s no better place to begin exploring beautiful Luxembourg City than in its historic Old Quarter. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, the city’s ancient fortifications made it one of the most important of Europe’s cities. The fortress was so impregnable it was dubbed the “Gibraltar of the North,” and although the original fortress was dismantled between 1867-1883, its impact upon the Old Quarter is evident everywhere. Today, the old fortifications have given way to beautifully laid out parks and gardens, while its cobbled streets are lined with charming old homes and buildings. It’s a great place to spend a few hours exploring as you cross its many bridges and traverse its many alleyways, preferably without a map - just follow your nose and see where you end up!

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Luxembourg’s Bock Cliff

THE BOCK AND CITY CASEMATES Luxembourg’s Bock cliff, with its fortifications and cannon-loopholes, is where you’ll find the entrance to the famous Casemates, a 21-kilometer network of underground passages hewn from solid rock. The Bock Casemates is a 17 kilometer long tunnel, initially carved out of the rock by the Spanish between 1737 and 1746.

Being a shelter for more than 35,000 locals and thousands of soldiers during the WWI and WWII, the casemates is known for its historical importance in Luxembourg.

Today, much of these remarkable fortifications can be explored on foot. On the Bock plateau itself are the remains of the old castle, discovered in 1963. There are beautiful views of the suburb of Grund and the Rham Plateau, the old 19th-century barracks, and the big towers and remains of the Wenceslas wall dating from 1390.

restored and is accessible to visitors and self-guided audio tours are available, with guided tours available upon request. If you can manage it, try to view the castle at night when it’s lit up - a truly magical experience, especially from the village.

Casemates

LAROCHETTE Larochette is a quaint old market town that lies in a narrow, rocky valley surrounded by woods. The town is dominated by two old and partially rebuilt castles that stand on a crag high above the valley of the White Ernz. Larochette boasts a fantastic medieval square, a museum of industry (free admission; open year round), and a number of historical monuments along its many old streets. Be sure to pop into the Neo-Roman church. The village is a hiker’s haven, with walks for all abilities heading through the woods and countryside and leading to notable viewpoints such as the castles of Meysembourg and Nommerlayen, with the remains of a Roman camp at Aalburg.

BERDORF Berdorf is one of the main tourist areas in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and lies on a vast tableland overlooking the valleys of the Black Ernz, the Sûre, and the Aesbach rivers. Numerous well-kept footpaths cross the valleys and chasms, where you’ll find tall rocky hills with fine views and more than 3,000 acres of forest. It’s also a very popular area for rock climbers.

Bourscheid Castle

BOURSCHEID CASTLE The village of Bourscheid is set high on a plateau and is bordered by the rivers Sûre and Wark. Here, you will find excellent views and many pleasant walks to other quaint villages, including Michelau in the Sûre Valley, Welscheid in the Wark Valley, and Kehmen on the plateau. This region of the Ardennes is very much dominated by the ruins of the fairy-tale Bourscheid Castle, which looks down from a rocky peak 137 meters above the Sûre. Dating from the 10th century, the castle has been largely continued over page >>

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Vianden Castle

VIANDEN CASTLE & CHAIRLIFT Vianden Castle was built between the 11th and 14th Century on the foundations of a Roman castle and a Carolingian refuge.

This Castle-Palace bears the Hohenstaufen characteristics and is one of the largest and finest feudal residences of the Roman and Gothic eras in Europe. A great way to view the back of the castle is from the chairlift!

For 5.30 you can get a round trip on the chairlift, which climbs 440 meters, or for â‚Ź3.00 a one way lift up and then hike back down to the bottom. With fantastic viewing platforms and a small cafĂŠ at the top you can sit back and relax and take in the stunning views.

Passerelle Viaduc

Chairlift

PASSERELLE VIADUC The historic bridge, Passerelle Viaduc, definitely offers its visitors an heady dose of picturesque and panoramic views of Luxembourg City. Built between 1859 and 1861 by the British company Waring Brothers, the Passarelle Viaduc connected the city centre with the new railway station. Known also as the Old Bridge, Passerelle Viaduc is well worth a visit, even if just for the brilliant photo opportunities.

PHILHARMONIE LUXEMBOURG The Philharmonie of Luxembourg is the concert hall of the Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg.

Representing the multicultural character of Luxembourg, this outstanding piece of contemporary architecture hosts great conductors, soloists and orchestras from all over the world. The remarkable quality of its acoustics and the close collaboration

Passerelle Bridge

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Castle of Larochette

with significant and well-known musical personalities has made the Philharmonie Luxembourg known as one of the best concert halls in Europe.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART If you were to judge Luxembourg City on the quality of its museums it would still rank pretty high on the list of the continent’s must-see cities. Topping the list is the National Museum of History and Art. In the historic Fish Market area (the old town centre), the NMHA collections - art objects, archaeological finds, furniture, tools, coins, arms, and

National Museum of History and Art

documents dealing with the history of the country - are housed in a beautiful new building. There’s a particular emphasis on the Gallo-Roman period and displays illustrating the artistic, social, religious, and intellectual life of Luxembourgers from the 16th to the early 20th centuries. The contemporary art section is also a must-see, and is furnished with works by many of the most important artists of the 20th century. Fans of modern art & architecture must visit the fantastic Mudam Luxembourg-Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean with its collections from world renowned artists. Also worth a visit is the Contemporary Art Gallery with its first rate collection of visual arts.

Luxembourg City, Grund, bridge over Alzette river

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ISSUE 15

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