HARMONY
HAPPINESS IS WHEN WHAT YOU THINK, W H AT YO U S AY A N D WHAT YOU DO ARE IN HARMONY MAHATMA GANDHI
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QueenBee magazine
Harmony issue 2021
HARMONY
Welcome
to the Harmony issue of
To move between pages, simply swipe! QueenBee magazine
Harmony issue 2021
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WELCOME HEALTH
Welcome to the Autumn 'Harmony' issue 2021
W
elcome to the QueenBee Autumn ‘harmony’ issue. There are so many reasons to love this season, from the changing colours of leaves that explode into beautiful hues of gold, red, and orange, to picking out the perfect pumpkin for those Halloween lanterns. Why harmony as a theme? To live in harmony is the idea that people can experience inner peace despite chaotic circumstances, negative emotions or difficult times. Very apt after such a difficult 18 months! It could mean harmony within your closest inner-circle of family and friends, harmony in your business life and in building relationships with your colleagues, finding balance in your mental and physical health, finding harmony in your physical and digital life… there are so many balances to be found in life.
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We all want harmony, balance and peace... peace is the hope of every nation, the promise of every politician and the pulse of every religious tradition. How can we live in peace and harmony? Firstly, take time for just you, every day. Make it a requirement. Live life more deliberately in the moment. Stop analysing your past and worrying about your future and make choices and decisions that feel good. I really hope you enjoy this issue of QueenBee and that you have a harmonious, happy and peaceful Autumn
Kathryn Grace, Publishing Editor kath@queenbeemagazine.co.uk
Harmony issue 2021
HEALTH CONTENTS
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'The best, worst mistake' - a snippet from this brilliant romantic comedy!
35
QueenBee allotment update
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Autumn fashion inspiration
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Going for green!
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Yaba's 10 minute body harmony workout
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Enjoying local theatre again
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QueenBee magazine
Harmony issue 2021
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HEALTH
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FASHION
Autumn fashion It seems that after over a year spent at home in loungewear, brands are forecasting a bold, fearless fashion outlook this autumn. From full-length maxi knits to high-voltage going 'out out' satin midi-dresses, this season is all about statement-making looks that don't entirely give up our newfound focus of all things comfortable! Cosy knits, trench coats and boots are back... check out the next few pages for some fabulous fashion inspiration >
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FASHION
Perfect harmony By Michelle Abbott @maison_abbott
Y
ou’d be forgiven for blinking and missing it, but I have to tell you that Summer is over. For those who found their share of precious sunshine and soaked it up, I applaud you. I’m packing away the wafty cotton, broderie anglaise and linen, it’ll have it’s day (hopefully many), next year. For now, I’m eagerly looking forward to the new season. There’s something about autumn dressing which feels exciting, fresh and full of promise. Gone are the days when we need to rush out and purchase a new wardrobe - instead, we should only buy what we really need and absolutely love, to give new life to existing favourites, and hint at trends which are current for the season. >
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Slip Dress, £55 • cosstores.com
Harmony issue 2021
FASHION HEALTH
When you look at the styles which are emerging all over the fashion world, we probably already have many of the key elements to pull together a new look. This A/W, I can summarise as follows: You’ll need a statement jacket, a slip dress, something bright, possibly a piece with a graphic cut out detail and if you want to be edgy, a pair of platforms. If you don’t, then a loafer is your best friend. Nothing ‘new’ here, you’re thinking. True, but as with every trend which rolls around, it’s the way the pieces are styled, paired with something unlikely, |or reminiscent of another era, which gives that sense of freshness, and, (when everything works together), of harmony. >
A silky slip dress with a sweater or jacket is the perfect combination for Autumn 2021
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FASHION HEALTH
A stand alone piece will be something with cut out detail - probably best worn alone and in black for impact. Where you choose to have the detail depends on the individual - bare a shoulder, a glimpse of waist, or the small of your back - whatever you feel comfortable with (always) - but let the rest be totally up to the imagination Until next time,
Michelle x Black chunky loafer, £100 • stories.com
Let me talk you through it. Start with a slip dress, in satin or silk (in a good weight to take it up a level from nightwear). It should be midi length at least and minimal in design - black, caramel or any neutral. Layer this under a loose fitting sweater. Add loafers for day time, or those 70s style platform sandals (yes you can wear opaque tights). Remove the knit and pull on a jacket with a wow factor - I don’t mean ‘in your face’ WOW, but a fabulous cut, vibrant colour (a key point this season), beautiful fabric and most importantly, the perfect fit for you. That’s a statement jacket. The platforms will elevate you (literally), the loafers will anchor the look and keep it understated.
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FASHION HEALTH
PUMPKIN SPICE AND EVERYTHING NICE QueenBee magazine
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FASHION
Helen & Darren ...embrace Autumn in style on a Stamford photoshoot @darrenkbranch @hptonhoney 12
QueenBee magazine
Harmony issue 2021
FASHION
Helen wears: Converse Womens Chuck Taylor All Star Hi Trainer, £29.99 (on sale) • footasylum.com ASYOU Jogger In Green, £11.70 (on sale) • asos.com Sage Jumbo Rib Puff Sleeve Roll Neck Top, £5 (on sale) • isawitfirst.com Stone Balloon Sleeve Knitted Arm Warmer, £6.60 (on sale) • isawitfirst.com Marc Jacobs The Tote Small Canvas Tote Bag, £180 • selfridges.com
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FASHION
Darren wears: Barbour Dunoon Tailored Shirt, £69.95 • barbour.com Barbour Neuston, Essential Chinos, £69.95 • barbour.com Barbour Bushtail Shoes, £99.95 • barbour.com
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Harmony issue 2021
FASHION
Darren wears: 90s Oversized Cord Shirt, £25 • asos.com Kelby Zip Cardigan in Earth, £195 • belstaff.co.uk Barbour Neuston Twill Chinos, £74.95 • barbour.com
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FASHION
Helen wears: Grey/Dark Wild & Free T-Shirt, £5 • isawitfirst.com Dark Grey Denim Long Shorts, £16 (on sale) • newlook.com Brown Woven Detail Knee High Boots, £24, (on sale) • isawitfirst.com
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Harmony issue 2021
FASHION
Going for green! This is going to be a key colour this Autumn. Layer up hues of the same colour for the greatest impact or just a pop of green in an accessory if you prefer it to be less dominant. Apple green with khaki is a winning combo Rachel Marlow @fashionable_later
Oversized Trench Coat, £79 • cosstores.com Knit Sweater, £110 • zara.com Slouch Suede Kitten Boots, £70 • monsoon.com Renzo Skirt In Small Green Leopard, £32 • dancingleopard.co.uk Mini Tote Bag, £75 • stories.com
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FASHION
with
gree
envy Green stands for balance, nature and rebirth. It's the symbol of prosperity, freshness and progress ...what's not to love about the colour green? Inspired by Rachel's gorgeous green fashion choices on the previous page, here's a few of QueenBee's favourites for this season...
Superdry Vegan Basket Lux Low Trainers, £64.99 • superdry.com
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FASHION
Mid Rise Trousers, £29.99 and Double Breasted Blazer, £69.99 • zara.com
Braided Handbag, £89.99 • mango.com
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FASHION
Collared Printed Dress £19.99 and Flowing Trousers, £19.99 • zara.com
Jeffrey Campbell Women's Green Slipper, £49.29 • lyst.co.uk
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Harmony issue 2021
FASHION
Recycle My Green Lips Sweatshirt, £48 • rubbishlondon.co.uk
Autograph Allure Cami Set, £35 • marksandspencer.com
Light Green Quilted Pocket Front Shacket, £34.99 • newlook.com
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EARTHCRAFTS
Earthcrafts re-launches with a brand new website and online shop
L
ucy Grace, our greenfingered QueenBee allotment manager and her friend Nikki are super excited to be re-launching their local business, EarthCrafts, with a brand new website and online shop. They will be sharing intentional handmade jewellery, crystals and much, much more! Following on our green theme in this issue, here's a little sample of some of their wares! You can follow them over on Instagram or Facebook @earth_crafts > Find them at www.earthcrafts.co.uk
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ine the div g with Earth r Craftin e r Moth u o m o gifts fr • design nalised o s r e p ble , m g availa Custo ackagin p t if g and • op raftsSh /EarthC p o cy h u /s L m/uk ftsBy etsy.co arthCra /E m o ok.c grace facebo @lucyo insta • Thanks & e Peac
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EARTHCRAFTS
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HEALTH
Emerald Elixir Smoothie Give your body the boost it needs with this easy and delicious health-giving green smoothie.
Recipe from www.veganrecipeclub.org.uk
Gluten and wheat free, low fat and sugar, diabetic and kid friendly. Ready in 5 minutes and serves 1.
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HEALTH
> All hail kale!
Kale is one of the most nutrientdense foods on the planet and it packs a powerful nutritional punch per typical serving. One cup of kale provides more than 100% of the daily minimum target for immune-supporting vitamin C and over 200% for vitamin A, supporting immunity as well as skin and brain health. Additionally, kale contains key minerals, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, iron, copper, and phosphorus. It also supplies energy-supporting B vitamins and some plant-based omega-3 fatty acids and plant protein.
> Ingredients 1 ripe banana (use fresh or frozen depending on whether you prefer cold smoothies… you might need to add a little plant milk if using frozen to help with blending) 1 cup kale, stalks removed 4 inch/10cm cucumber 2-3 dates, stones removed
> Instructions Simply blend all of the ingredients together until smooth
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FITNESS
What does harmony mean to you? By Yaba Afful-Logotse, Afful Health & Fitness Ltd
According to collinsdictionary.com, a couple of examples are ‘a mix of pleasing musical notes that go together’ and ‘when two people live together and don’t fight’ ...I have heard the former, but never seen the latter! > Yaba Afful-Logotse BSc is Director at Afful Health & Fitness Ltd offering online Personal training, tailored workout plans, nutrition planning and health education. Visit www.affulhf.com or call 07956 494 821. Find Yaba on instagram @yaba_self_love. 26
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FITNESS
D
id you know your body can also function in harmony? Your muscles and joints can flow in such a way that they work pleasingly together. The heart and lungs can function harmoniously together to allow circulation. Coordinating our breathing with movement is an important part of being physically active. The human body really is a great example of how to work together to create a peaceful environment.
It's easy to see why we feel so out of sorts when one part of the human body is out of sync or hurt (have you ever had toothache?!). Even our white blood cells fight off infection to maintain the harmony in our bodily system. I have created this low intensity flow of exercises, targeting the full body, to build strength, stamina and a feeling of harmony > Visit www.teamafful.online
Yaba's 10 minute workout will make every part of your body work in harmony... let's go! QueenBee magazine
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LIFE
Ami with an i...
Since writing her first article for the QueenBee Summer Glow issue, Ami discovered that she has a cancerous tumour in her breast and is currently undergoing treatment. Here she bravely talks about the tough journey ahead and her cherished childhood memories of Bangladesh > Photo by Paul Robinson, PWR media. Head piece is designed and made by Amanda Robertson @amandacarolinecouture 28
QueenBee magazine
Harmony issue 2021
LIFE
Childhood memories as I embark on my cancer journey... By Ami Yeasmin, Bisbrooke Artisans
I
sit in the car with the letter in my hand, struggling to absorb the information from the NHS breast clinic after a routine mammogram. I decide to put it back in the envelope. As I pull away from the kerb to drive towards London to see my parents, I try to put it out of my mind and listen to a Paul Simon CD. As the songs fill the empty spaces in my head, the tears start rolling down my face. I can’t help but wonder the implications of being called back to have further investigations and biopsies. The letter says that four out of a hundred people are called back and the realisation that I happen to be one of the four seems to get stuck in my throat. Sobbing my way to London, I finally arrive at my parents, where a family BBQ awaits, and it’s a relief to hug everyone. I am aware that I am home, and I can be their daughter again and this feels good. Feeling safe, I relax and am reminded about a childhood memory in Bangladesh, where times were like honey, mellifluous and rewarding, dulcet and harmonious. QueenBee magazine
I would wake up in the early morning to the sound of the cockerels in the yard outside and the sun beating down on my forehead. My feet would touch the cold hard mud floor and, in my vest and pants I’d run outside across the yard to the tin roof kitchen. Here I’d see my grandma crouched on the floor by the fire rolling out some rice cakes. I would ask what she was making and jumping onto her back, I’d rock back and forth with my arms around her neck. >
...I can’t help but wonder the implications of being called back to have further investigations and biopsies.
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LIFE
Chewing her beetle nut and ‘paan’ leaves which left her mouth red, she would say that she was baking some rice cakes and that they’d soon be ready, but there was time for me to go down to the village pond and have a dip with the boys next door. It’s all about the sensory detail and the little things when you’re young. The smell of the date palm sugar - deep brown and gooey - and the softness of the warm crushed rice flour. The crackling of the fire with the woody aroma of the sticks that came from the ashes. And of course, my grandma. Her white hair, shiny with coconut oil, and tied in a small bun; the wrinkled skin on her hands that reassured me that she had lived centuries and was timeless. Strange how wrinkles on my grandma were comforting as a child, yet as an adult my instinct was to reject them. I would stroke the lines around her face and take in the smell of her white cotton sari, always freshly hand washed with soap and dried in the wind. With me cradling her from the back she would roll the dough, stoke the fire and check her sari as I kept pulling at it. I would giggle and wriggle as I rocked.
Then the boys from next door run, thundering into the kitchen to see if I was ready to go to the pond. The boys looked longingly at the rice cakes and before I even asked, she nodded and said yes there would be some for them too. I jumped off her back and kissed her neck. Grabbing a muslin towel from the basket on floor, I raced out of there screaming 'well come on, I’ll race you!' Fast forward to present day, where I have since found out that I do indeed have a cancerous tumour in my breast and suddenly a harmonious life as an adult seems more complicated. As I contemplate that I did not choose cancer, but it chose me, I know that the journey ahead will be tough. And because it is not something I can control, like all things that are into the unknown, I get the feeling that I am going to learn something special about my life and myself and meet the most amazing people along the way. It will be one of those experiences whereby, being extreme, I will find again my balance, my harmony and my dulcet tones
It’s all about the sensory detail and the little things when you’re young. The smell of the date palm sugar - deep brown and gooey - and the softness of the warm crushed rice flour.
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LIFE
Follow Ami's journey on instagram @bisbrooke_artisans QueenBee magazine
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BUSINESS
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QueenBee magazine
Harmony issue 2021
HEALTH
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Hope issue 2021
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ALLOTMENT
QueenBee allotment news > 35
ALLOTMENT
Growing our own
in harmony with nature “The harmony of something is the way in which its parts are combined into a pleasant arrangement.” By Lucy Grace, our greenfingered QueenBee allotment manager
G
reetings to you, reader. I see you - I see that the past year and a half has turned your world upside down in more ways than you thought possible... and I see how hard you are working to get things upright again, through a new perspective, even despite the still uncertain ways of the world around us. You’re doing amazing things! For many of us at the moment, it is a difficult time to catch hold of the word ‘harmony’ and feel it in our bones. But, what’s beautiful about the theme of this issue, is that it reminds us that harmony is waiting for us on the other side of all this, especially with everything COVID has taught us. Harmony itself is like a lesson we’ve learned; one of the positives to come out of it all.
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Also, it reminds us that harmony has been co-existing with us all this time, outside, out in the urban wild where so many animal species and habitats have flourished in our absence. In our gardens this has been happening, too - especially since so many have taken to the soil since lockdown began, creating all things bright, beautiful and edible! At the QueenBee allotment plot, harmony has really taken over this year as we’ve let it do it’s thing! With all the early Summer rain, the veg planted in late spring was well taken care of, without the need for us to visit and water plants ourselves. No visits means no weeding, so of course the ‘weeds’ grew too many different wild flowering plants that would usually be considered a nuisance or removed from the ground > Harmony issue 2021
ALLOTMENT
well before it’s had the opportunity to show itself off. Letting these flower on our plot has attracted so many more insects, and it’s benefitted our veg instead of stunting it’s growth by sheltering the ground and keeping in the moisture, making the place look very luscious throughout!
QueenBee magazine
It has been so welcoming to return to the plot recently, and so fruitful! Check out the purple variety of potato below that we’ve grown - it’s like our veg is loving us back! Love & best wishes, Lucy > Visit earthcrafts.com
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ALLOTMENT
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ALLOTMENT
The many different wild flowering plants attracted so many more insects to our plot, hugely benefitting our veg!
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LIFE
The Secret Garden By Louisa Parr
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QueenBee magazine
Harmony issue 2021
LIFE
When life just gets too much to bear and I need a bit of space At the bottom of my garden, there’s a very special place A peaceful, delightful, little spot, in amongst the trees In summer through their branches blows a warm and gentle breeze A place for quiet contemplation, alone, I lay upon the grass and watch the Dappled sunlight through the leaves that seem to dance Delicate dandelion fairies, floating softly by....Catch one, make a wish, let it go and watch it fly They don’t care it’s late August and soon Autumn will be here They know seasons come and go, it happens every year I’ve watched the fledglings in the spring, in earnest learn to fly Seen bees collecting nectar for all the honey that we buy When there’s been snow upon the ground, I’ve dressed in gloves and hat and with the trees all stark and bare, underneath them I have sat In his bright red waistcoat, a Robin sings nearby, Of love, hope happiness, and reasons not to cry I'm in awe of Mother Nature and the beauty she creates In spite of all the liberties us humans seem to take In perfect harmony she works with moon, the stars and sun and don’t forget the changing tides, her work is never done You won’t hear her grumble mind, at the chores she has to do, we should take a leaf from her book, yes, both me and you There's something about nature though, that brings me inner peace It helps to clear my brain of fog, like chains have been released Sometimes it’s just the simple things that make me feel at ease So come with me to my favourite place, and we'll sit amongst the trees
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READING
"Loved every minute of this book. Felt every high and low along with the lovely Jessica. Some really great descriptions of life on a cruise ship and lots of interesting characters - all of whom I want to know more about! Well done on an amazing debut novel and can't wait to find out what happens next..."
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READING
The best,
worst mistake Talented Peterborough lady, Eilidh Wall, wrote and published her first romantic comedy novel during lockdown and has received many 5 star reviews! Here we share a little snippet from the book... "Sitting up, I reach over to drain the last of the wine from the bottle. ‘Okay, I need to try it out,’ I say, sitting back down and slipping off my socks and boots. I pull up my jeans and dangle my legs in the hot bubbles. It’s heavenly. These weeks of standing, walking, working for sometimes fourteen hours a day were taking its toll. My feet have had blisters over blisters in every part of my feet, bandaged and bleeding to the point now where I can’t feel part of them anymore. The heat of the water and the tickle of the bubbles could not have come at a better time. I will never forget this moment. We stay for a little while longer, chatting quietly but always aware that we might be caught at any second by Sailors patrolling the decks. I quizzed Neal about his relationships on board. He said that he had gone out with a shop-girl for a while, but it ended badly. They had gotten together on his second contract and lasted the whole of it together.
QueenBee magazine
‘I knew it wasn’t going to go anywhere, nice girl and all that, but..’ ‘Come on man,’ interjects Derek. ‘I think you’re missing about 90% of that story mate. She was flaming nuts,’ says Derek, a look of bewilderment etched across his brow. ‘I’m not dissing her mate, it’s finished and that’s the end of it,’ Neal says, firmly. ‘I've had enough of these shipboard relationships,’ he adds, changing the tone. ‘Pure sex from now on,’ he laughed, offering Derek his hand for a high five. Neal took a sip of his beer and wiped his mouth, his eyes swept over me. It was a message, definitely a message. A bolt of electrical current shot through me from the spot in my brain that received that message, which in turn triggers a throb in my derelict clitoris" READ MORE
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HEALTH
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RELATIONSHIPS
A digital revolution is coming to Peterborough! Be the first to get gigabit, full fibre broadband Register on our site cityfibre.com/queenbee #gigabitpboro @cityfibre
BROADBAND
How we can work together
to tackle the digital divide With lots of everyday services moving online, from healthcare to shopping, access to technology is becoming vital to our day to day lives. But some in society face major challenges when trying to access the world online... > QueenBee magazine
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BROADBAND
I
n the UK it’s estimated that 16.3 million adults lack core digital skills, and 1.9 million homes have no access to the internet – meaning there is a whole section of society which needs support to ensure they can access the opportunities presented by the digital world. The digital divide has always existed but has become more evident in the last year as the Covid-19 pandemic forced big parts of our lives - including work, school, and socialising - to move online. As a result of this, now,
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more than ever, work is being done to tackle the issue. In order to bridge the divide, people need access to three key things: equipment, connectivity and skills. Currently, charities up and down the country are working to ensure everyone has access to technology. CityFibre has worked to support this, partnering with charities including The Hive, a digital library which loans equipment to those that need it, and Donate Digital, which upgrades and redistributes donated equipment.
Harmony issue 2021
BROADBAND
A device is just the beginning – a reliable internet connection is vital to accessing online services. CityFibre is investing up to £4 billion to bring the best connectivity - Full Fibre - within reach of up to eight million homes, 800,000 businesses and 400,000 public sector sites. Working with councils and housing associations across the UK, including here in Peterborough, our whole town approach ensures that everyone has the same opportunity to access the network. We are also working to ensure that people have the skills and confidence to use technology. CityFibre has supported various charities across the UK who work with the over 55s to help them develop the skills they need to get online. We are also supporting the next generation, working with coding workshops to help young people and their families develop technology skills.
Our Full Fibre networks also support the development of skills, as a reliable and fast connection ensures that people have a good experience online, encouraging them to explore technology and make full use of the opportunities it brings. While the last year has made the digital divide more obvious than ever, it has also acted as a catalyst with more people working to tackle the problem both locally and nationally. There is still a lot to be done but working together we can all make a difference. Our investment into community-wide Full Fibre networks is an important step in getting more people online, but there is lots we can do as individuals too. Don’t throw out your old technology - donate it to charity; and if you see someone struggling, support them to get online. This will make sure that as we move into a new, more digital world, no-one gets left behind > To find out more or register an interest in the service click here www.cityfibre.com/queenbee
While the last year has made the digital divide more obvious than ever, it has also acted as a catalyst with more people working to tackle the problem both locally and nationally. QueenBee magazine
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FINANCES HEALTH
Financial
harmony Polly, our PwC qualified chartered accountant gives sound business and financial guidance along with advice on how to best run your business. It’s a “financial arm around you when you need it.” >
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Harmony issue 2021
FINANCES
Expert advice from LeeP Accountants By Polly Lee, LeeP Accountants
With summer now firmly in our rear-view mirror and the furore of covid seemingly subsiding, it’s now time to start looking ahead to how we can improve our financial harmony in business.
O
ne way of doing this is to use accounting software which not only is intended to make our lives easier (if it doesn’t, chances are you’ve not been given the proper training on how to use it) but will soon be mandated by HMRC under the guise of “making tax digital.” Making tax digital For those who are VAT registered with turnover of more than £85K, ‘Making Tax Digital’ has already been around for a couple of years. This simply means that VAT returns had to be submitted to HMRC using digital software which is supposed to make things easier and more environmentally friendly; but it’s really a route for the VAT man to interrogate your numbers more easily. From 6th April 2023, Self-employed businesses and landlords with annual
QueenBee magazine
business or property income above £10,000 will need to follow the rules for MTD for Income Tax (historically, the deadline was April 2022, but due to covid this was delayed by a year). >
LeeP Accountants have dedicated training rooms to give you training on how to use Quickbooks or Xero for your business
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FINANCES
Accounting software Now is the time to do some research to decide what accounting software suits you and your business.
Training
Check out our quick guide below for the 4 most common accounting options below.
Company
Here at LeeP Accountants, we have dedicated training rooms to give you training on how to use Quickbooks or Xero for your business, with prices from just £99+VAT for up to 3 trainees, it works out at just £33+VAT per person > LeeP Accountants – not your average accountant! Tel: 01733 699033 Visit: www.leepfinancial.com
Cheapest monthly plan
UK support
LeeP pro tip
Quick link
LeeP rating
£10.00
Email, call, chat
Avoid the self employed subscription. Currently offering huge offers to new subscribers to hook you in.
Click here to find out more
8/10
Xero
£10.00
Initial price may be cheap but only allows 20 invoices a month and the middle package is £24/mo. Reporting is better than most but comes at a cost and may be unnecessary for straight forward businesses.
Click here to find out more
7/10
Sage
£9.60
Email, call or chat
Not as user-friendly as QB or Xero and the reports and bank reconciliation features are cumbersome.
Click here to find out more
5/10
Freeagent
£9.50
Chat
Free for Natwest bank account holders and does what it says on the tin. Not the most user friendly.
Click here to find out more
6/10
Quickbooks
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Harmony issue 2021
HEALTH HOME
Slimming World taste Slimming World the
HOME
freeddoomm free taste the
Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a warm and friendly group today!
Contact your local Slimming World Consultant and join a warm and friendly group today!
Slimming World in the Hamptons with Scott TUESDAY & THURSDAY PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY AM
All groups now at the Csk Church Hampton Booking essential!
Contact Scott: 07734 364138
Looking forward to seeing you soon.
slimmingworld.co.uk
slimmingworld. co.ukHarmony issue 2021 QueenBee magazine
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HEALTH LIFE
Why does a healthy work and family balance seem so unattainable for a woman? By Michelle Begy, Managing Director and Founder at Ignite Dating
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omen were traditionally seen as the homemaker and caregiver of the family but despite changes in gender roles and more women achieving successful careers today, why does it still feel like there has to be a trade-off between a career or a family for women? It’s a topic that has featured in catch ups with friends, conversations with acquaintances and even business events worldwide, but it seems just as unattainable today as it did fifty years ago – unless you break the mould and make your own success. A healthy work-life balance makes for a fulfilling life. We have all heard the saying “life is short,” but the recent pandemic has given us a stark reality check and made us re-evaluate what is important to us. While we’ve learnt to slow down and appreciate the little things, we’re also dreaming bigger and aiming for things that we never thought possible. Consequently, a healthy work-life balance has become top priority on most people’s lists. With many benefits from health improvements to increased productivity 54
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and higher job satisfaction to more time for yourself, it’s easy to see why a good work and family life balance has become the new must-have accessory. There is no reason why you cannot have it all. When you have children, there’s no denying that your priorities change. After all, you now have a tiny human’s needs that you must put before your own. Often this comes at a cost of a career, with mothers finding it harder to fit a job around the many demands of children. As a result, they tend to turn their back on the careers that they have worked so hard to build for fear of failure when it comes to balancing it all – but it doesn’t have to be that way. >
...the recent pandemic has given us a stark reality check and made us re-evaluate what is important to us. Harmony issue 2021
LIFE
It is possible for a woman to have a fulfilling, successful career and be an amazing mother. The secret? The unity, guidance and empowerment of a supportive community and a proven formula for success. At Ignite Dating we empower women in their professional life. Offering a business venture that is truly their own, allowing them to fit work seamlessly around their personal life, offers a six
figure pay cheque, to give them time to focus on their children or achieve a more balanced work and social life – something that can prove quite difficult when employed. We offer flexibility and support for our matchmakers, helping them to build up their business with expertise, knowledge and support every step of the way. The result? A flexible and fulfilling life without compromise > Visit www.ignitedating.co.uk
Michelle Begy is the Managing Director and founder of Ignite Dating who handpick suitable potential matches, verifying their identity and interviewing them extensively before introducing them to you!
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HEALTH
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THEATRE HEALTH HAIR
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HEALTH
Contact me today... Let's have a chat on how I can help you achieve your goals and help you to live your life to the full. Having had my own weight loss journey I totally understand and am here to support you all the way! Just what's app /text or leave a message on my Facebook page
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HEALTH
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MOTHERHOOD HEALTH
Harmony and family life Being Me, Being Mum. Ups, downs, trying and getting there… By Bianca Liguori
I want to be the best version of ‘me’ that I can be and learning to balance everything is a challenge that I gladly accept. 60
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MOTHERHOOD
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hen I imagine a harmonious life, I create a film-like picture in my mind of 2.4 children in a large suburban house with a smiley working husband and a well-dressed housewife. Stereotypical of a ‘perfect, American movie family’ I know, but a calm, easy happy life where things just fall into place is what harmonious family life means to me. Of course, striving for your own ideal, harmonious family life (whatever that may look like) is part of the everyday modern living struggle. Let’s face it… we want it all! We want the career we’ve always dreamt of (and worked hard for), we want a homely house where we can relax and be ourselves, we want the happy relationships we see in the movies with our partners, children and friends. There is nothing wrong with striving to ‘have it all’ but let’s remember not to get disheartened if ‘real- life’ gets in the way. As a mum of two gorgeous, young boys I often struggle with balance and harmony in family life. I’m a mum, wife and career woman and while I’m proud to have these different parts of my life I by
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no means have figured out how to have them harmoniously. It’s true what they say, if family life is going well, work probably isn’t and vice versa. Being a mum is amazing and makes me so proud and happy but it can take up all my energy. It can distract from other areas of life. It can be hard to prioritise being a wife and spending quality time together. Then there is ‘me time’ which needs to happen regularly so I can be the best version of me for my beautiful family. Right now I’m on maternity leave and the idea of fitting anymore into life seems unimaginable, but like with anything in life, it will fit in. Knowing me, I’ll put my all into being the best teacher I can be. Splitting my energy up in a harmonious way is a goal I will always strive for. I want to be the best version of ‘me’ that I can be and learning to balance everything is a challenge that I gladly accept. Life is too short to turn down opportunities or shy away from challenges. In fact I’m realising more and more that it’s working on these challenges that is making the memories that I cherish
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THEATRE
Enjoying theatre again! By Becky Owen-Fisher
It’s all very exciting in theatre land at the moment as we start to open up again and invite audiences back into our buildings. And boy, have we missed you! Peterborough’s theatres have got some fabulous treats on offer this autumn season...
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THEATRE
18 September @ 2pm Express G & S • The Key Theatre • £22 All aboard for a murderous musical mystery tour! The masters of Gilbet and Sulivan present this brand new, side-splitting spoof of the classic railway mystery. 28 September @ 7:30pm Girls Just Wanna Have Fun • The Cresset • £27 This show will get you IN THE MOOD FOR DANCING as it’s jam packed with your favourite night-out anthems. You’ll be dancing in the aisles and rolling in them too once we GET THIS PARTY STARTED! 3 October 7.30pm The New Rock For Heros • New Theatre, Peterborough • From £18 The incredible “Rock for Heroes” brings the perfect combination of your favourite Rock songs while fundraising in support of the fantastic Help for Heroes. With music from artists such as Queen, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Van Halen, Toto, Bon Jovi, Guns N Roses, AC/DC, Prince, Dire Straits and so many more. You won’t see a bad wig here, this isn’t a tribute act, this is simply paying tribute, the Way Rock For Heroes do it! 6 October @ 2pm and 7:30pm Macbeth • The Key Theatre • £16.50 / £11.50 A full-cast production set in the murky Dark Ages where love, politics and witchcraft collide. Enjoy this classic tale as portrayed by William Shakespeare with sorcery, ghostly apparitions and spectacular sword fights!
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18 October 7:30pm The Horne Section • The Cresset • £26.50 Five outstanding musicians, one nonmusical stand up, there’ll be comedy, songs, enthusiastic dancing and a lot of mucking about. A unique show from the hugely talented band and Alex Horne, the creator and co-host of The Bafta and Emmy nominated Taskmaster. 7 November 12pm and 2:30pm Big Red Bath • The Key Theatre • £4 Adapted from Julia Jarman and Adrian Reynolds’ popular children’s picture book, this quirky, vibrant and humorous tale for 2-5 year olds features music by Evergreen, an alternative indie-electro-pop trio who bring a blend of folk melodies, electro beats and vocal harmonies. 10 - 20 November Frankenstein by Peterborough Mask Theatre • The Undercroft • £8 / £10 Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant young scientist, gives life to a creature of his own making. Horrified by the result, Frankenstein casts the creature out and the grotesque monster is shunned by society. Increasingly desperate to feel love and kindness, the creature sets out to find its maker and strike a terrifying bargain. 23 - 27 November Elf by Peterborough Operatic and Dramatic Society • The Cresset • £20 / £17.50 Peterborough’s multi-award-winning PODS bring the smash-hit musical, Elf, to the Cresset. Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-ofwater comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity
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PODCAST HEALTH
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PODCAST
QueenBee Talks Our podcast dives into topics that matter to women from all walks of life, while sharing thoughtful discussions and personal stories. From relationships and motherhood to careers and wellness, no subject is off limits... tune in as we investigate, discuss and really dig in on what matters to women. We are your dose of inspiration, insight, and humour! Please listen, rate and subscribe
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HARMONY
Our team
Publishing Editor Kathryn Grace kath@queenbeemagazine.co.uk t: 07738 920331 Accounts Charlene Bryant sales@queenbeemagazine.co.uk t: 07368 525389 Design Slinky Design kath@slinkydesign.co.uk Advertising enquiries kath@queenbeemagazine.co.uk Contributors: A huge thank you to the following peeps for their help, support and contributions in this issue: Michelle Begy, Yaba Afful-Logotse, Eilidh Wall, Ami Yeasmin, Polly Lee, Lucy Grace, Darren Branch, Helen Green, Michelle Abbott, Bianca Liguori, Rachel Marlow, Georgette Louis, Becky Owen-Fisher, Paula Crowhurst, Louisa Parr and AVIDD Design.
Meet Charlene
Charlene is the QueenBee engine, busy working in the background to ensure accounts and paperwork are up to date! Contact Charlene for payments or invoice enquiries on sales@queenbeemagazine.co.uk 66
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HEALTH SOCIAL
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HEALTH ADVERTISE
Why advertise with QueenBee? Our community of fashion, beauty and health gurus are fueled by a passion for knowledge, advocating subjects on body positivity, women’s health and motherhood. With entertaining, informative and relatable content, we aim to inform, inspire and entertain! Our website and social media platforms have over 14,000 followers with an average monthly reach of 85,000. QueenBee is the perfect place to tell women about your product or service. We connect directly with your audience and support your business with editorial features, blogs and reviews too. We offer transparent and affordable advertising with monthly payment plans to help you spread the cost. Whatever your budget, talk to us and we will tailor a package to suit you. For more details please call Kathryn on 077389 20331 or email kath@queenbeemagazine.co.uk Visit https://queenbeemagazine.co.uk/advertise
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HARMONY
AUTUMN IS A SECOND SPRING WHEN EVERY LEAF IS A FLOWER
