Pink (December 2017)

issUe158∫ December2017

From eco-friendly stocking fillers to love notes in advent calendars The less maTerialisTic meaning of chrisTmas sTarTs To emere

THE PINK FASHION SHOW GOES GREEN HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MOST EXCLUSIVE GARDEN PARTY WHO WAS WEARING WHAT ON THE CATWALK AND OFF

TODAY’S WOMEN WARRIORS Meet #occupyjustice activists

GET YOUR HOME-MADE SIN-FREE FOOD PREPARED & DELIVERED Convenience is the way forward for us females

INSIDE

December 2017

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FEATURES 18 WomensWorld women warriors Up in arms and not silenced 24 FoodForThought fresh food fest Healthy meals at our fingertips

FASHION 33 ShowStopper all about the blouse Keep your shirt on 43 TheUniform off catwalk critique Who was wearing what at the show 47 Pink@TheParty The Pink Fashion Show 61 TrendSetter cutting it at christmas Get on trend for this time of the year

HEALTH & BEAUTY 69 PinkShrink christmas studies Intriguing findings about the feast 71 ParentingTips spoiled rotten?

How to avoid overindulgence

REGULARS 11 EditorsNote 12 MailShot 29 WomanKind prima ballerina Diana Menuhin 58 ThinkPink beauty & things 64 AccessoryStory the stuffless stocking Gifting experiences instead of items 74 TableTalk currying flavour Leftover lunches go tangy 77 TravelOgue have yourself a catholic little christmas Similar celebrations around the world 81 StarGazer the future is pink Horoscopes 82 SnapShot in love with rock Charlene Balzan

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COVER Photography Andre Gialanze ∫ Styling Marisa Grima [marisagrima.com] ∫ Hair Dominic Bartolo @ Dreads Hairdressing ∫ Make-up Elaine Galea ∫ Model Elenoir @ Supernova MM, wearing blouse, €99.90; trousers, €199; bag, €139.90, all Tommy Hilfiger.

8 ∫ Pink December 2017

EDITORSNOTE

Ever since #occupyjustice took root, following the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia, I wanted to run a feature on the women who form this group to continue, in some small way, to promulgate their voice.

I was intrigued, full of admiration, and some guilt and shame, when they spent a weekend camped outside Castille, demanding justice for Daphne’s murder, good governance, accountability from authorities…

I had all the excuses in the world not to be there… but I also knew that so did they, these mothers, workers, women with their own commitments and private lives.

At no point did I attempt to justify my absence, because they too would have had their reasons not to attend… but they still made it to sleep out in Castille Place in front of the Office of the Prime Minister.

From October 16, at 3pm, these women knew their lives would never be the same again, and as the situation grew even more desperate, they knew they simply could not carry on as though nothing had happened. There was no one they

could turn to and they just had to do something themselves.

When others concerned about the status quo in the aftermath of Daphne’s death had to get on with their business, these women turned up the heat and their initiatives, speaking for us, standing up for us, and getting flak for us.

Malta’s leading women’s magazine just had to interview the members of this non-partisan group; to meet the ordinary women with the extraordinary sense of civic duty. But it wasn’t that straightforward. Although they were at the forefront of the protests, not everyone felt comfortable being interviewed. They had their reasons… and that became a story in itself.

Intimidation tactics were leaving their impact and a sharper picture of our stark reality started to emerge from the fact that some women had to decline the invitation to be featured. Showing their faces could mean being slapped with a transfer, or that some form of revenge would be exacted on them – scary and surreal stuff in today’s Malta.

We know they have been insulted, humiliated and denigrated, and some have said they have already been identified and isolated in an attempt to silence them. Is it working? Maybe.

Even an opinion piece on who #occupyjustice is and what it stands for has no by-line.

It shows what they are up against and I’m proud of these women.

Though I don’t like and don’t want to turn this into a gender issue, they strengthen my conviction that we

need more women in politics. They inspire confidence and trust. Not all women politicians automatically stir up these feelings, but those behind #occupyjustice [who have no interest in a job in politics] instil some form of hope. They are possibly the only movement I can identify with right now.

And while simply identifying with them may not be enough, I hope any admiration for the #occupyjustice women can encourage them in the face of the sort of criticism and attacks that Daphne knew only too well and was left alone to fight.

Read WomensWorld on page 18 to understand what led these ladies to action and to maybe find it in ourselves to ditch passivity too and venture out of our comfort zones.

Messages on these lines run through the magazine, with even our contributor from Hawaii, who writes about Christmas fashion and beauty trends, adding a paragraph on the perilous state of Maltese democracy and our role to save it.

“Think about a subject you are passionate about: women’s rights, the environment, animal welfare, freedom of the press, or the right to roam in what’s left of your own countryside,” Helen Raine says.

“Now make 2018 the year when you do something about it.

Grass-roots activism has never been more important and there are lots of organisations that need your help to effect change. Find one, join it and reject the culture of corruption and kickbacks; or start your own organisation if you can’t find a group that works for you…”

December 10, 2017 ∫ Pink is a monthly magazine ∫ Issue 158 ∫ Executive editor Fiona Galea Debono ∫ Publisher Allied Newspapers Ltd ∫ Printing Progress Press Ltd ∫ Production Allied Newspapers Ltd ∫ Contributors Dominic Bartolo, Maria Cachia, Edward Curmi, Elaine Galea, Mary Galea Debono, Marisa Grima, Caroline Paris, Helen Raine, Stephanie Satariano, Lara Sierra, Shelley Von Strunckel ∫ Design Manuel Schembri ∫ Photography Jonathan Borg, Justin Ciappara, Andre Gialanze, Carlo Jourdan, Matthew Mirabelli, Kurt Paris, Chris Sant Fournier, Mark Zammit Cordina ∫ Advertising sales Veronica Grech Sant [2276 4333; veronica.grechsant@timesofmalta.com].

THIS PUBLICATION IS BEING DISTRIBUTED AS PART OF:

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Pink December 2017 ∫ 11

MAILsho

THE LETTER THAT TICKLED Pı LEFT SPEECHLESS Pink has always interested me, and I truly look forward to reading it. The articles are diverse and there is always something for everyone, whether related to food, history, health, beauty, love, décor, or fun; while the adverts are also captivating. I suppose that when it comes to the November issue, the most interesting read for me was Murder – The Ultimate Form of Censorship [InFocus]; this is an extremely current issue that has left so many people speechless. I was particularly intrigued by the end of the article whereby five women are listed and the unfortunate resemblance in the reason they were murdered is highlighted. Despite it not being a fun, light-hearted topic, I felt this article really does leave the reader thinking… Or, at least, that is the effect it had on me.

RACHEL GAUCI, FROM ST JULIAN’S

The writer of the letter of the month wins Emporio Armani’s Because It’s You eau de parfum from Chemimart; PLUS a selection of Deborah Milano make-up products from A.M.Mangion Ltd.

A BRIGHT SMILE Dear editor, how big and accommodating is a mother’s heart! And there are certain occasions where a mother has to show her inner strengths more determinedly. Going through No Piece of Cake [PrivateEye, July 2017], I couldn’t but admire both mother and daughter. It has been tough on Gertrude, researching and learning more about her daughter’s rare condition, and her stamina and dedication have been tested these past 12 years. Isn’t it a feather in her cap that, after all her efforts, Maya has retained a healthy balanced diet? Maya, too, is an admirable character, and for such a young girl, she’s shown great strength.

Good for you both! You’ve earned our esteem. And what reader could skip that charismatic, radiant smile of Ella Strickland in the article Knowing Your Colours [FashionStory, 2017] to see what it is all about? I really loved reading what this sweet lady had to say about the interpretation of colours. And l agree with her that each one of us is the portrayal of a colour. I wasn't surprised that Ella’s is a happy orange because looking at her bright smile is enough to lighten anybody’s day. As usual, July’s Pink was an entertaining treat. I loved everything about it!

JOSETTE CHETCUTI, VIA E-MAIL

EMOTIONAL-HEALTH-RESTORING MOCKTAIL OF SANITY What a sigh of relief ! I’ve just read your monthly musing [EditorsNote, July 2017], nestling inside the pages of Pink. How lovely to read what I have long been feeling as I withdrew all but completely from Facebook, where inanities and warped takes on matters from mundane to unsettling are given the rubber stamp by an army of minions, and most of its assiduous contributors are seeming to me more and more like the rabble with pitchforks, baying for blood outside the Tuileries in 1789… Thank you for this refreshing and emotional-health-restoring mocktail of sanity, which I really needed to steady the fraying ‘is it only me or is everyone else channelling Animal from The Muppet Show?’ annoyance.

NAME AND ADDRESS WITHHELD

GENERATING DISCUSSION Dear Pink, to begin with, I would like to thank you for, through a wonderful magazine packed cover to cover with interesting stories, adding sugar and spice to my breakfast [the time when I most enjoy reading it]. Articles make for pleasant reading, especially the opinions readers send in when they are tickled.

I personally was ‘tickled pink’ by the EditorsNote of July 2017.

I associated with most of your opinions about Facebook, and other social media if it comes to that. Like it or not, it does keep us in touch with the outside world, where people are given, at times, a false platform that makes them feel almighty and powerful. Some posts are enlightening and worth reading, but others, as the article points out, are cramming their rubbish down others’ throats without the slightest hint of self-doubt. Also, what do you think about posts that threaten bad luck and all hell on those who do not agree? Their ‘two cents’ worth’ is truly not worth much more – less, I would add. Social media, however, when used selectively is a shortcut to understanding the times, and so the only point I do not agree with you on is that “ignorance is bliss”. No, ignorance is never bliss, and the idea that what we can’t see won’t kill us has very often been proven incorrect.

Looking forward to your next issue and, in particular, to your interesting and discussion-generating EditorsNote.

BERNADETTE IZZO, FROM G’MANGIA

wrıte ı AND WIN

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WOMENSWORLD

Standing up to Castille: Vanessa Farrugia, Alessandro Dee Crespo, Lee Ann Montanaro Photography: Mark Zammit Cordina

18 ∫ Pink December 2017

WOMENSWORLD

WOMEN WARRIORS A strange dichotomy has formed since the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia.

Active online participation in the debate surrounding her murder is not equating to much activism in real life.

So why are the women of #occupyjustice braving that unwanted attention? What is it that compelled them to get off their phones and go, in person, to demonstrate outside Castille? And what is driving them to continue the fight for justice, good governance and accountability? LARA SIERRA talks to three of them to find out.

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eople did not want to take part in this article.

Women who had agreed to be interviewed changed their minds, made excuses and pulled out. And who can blame them? The non-partisan #occupyjustice movement incited unthinkable levels of trolling and harassment, as social media turned its cutting knife on them and these women became unwitting victims of abuse. Many may feel too intimidated to ever publicly demonstrate again.

Yet for some reason, despite the criticism and lewd remarks levelled against them, three women from different walks of life still turned up for this interview. These women, with work to do, homes to run and mouths to feed, had dropped everything together with several others to camp outside Castille, and now would risk it all again to continue the debate. None of them are politicians; nor do they want to pursue a job in politics.

I was concerned for the interviewees. What if the trolls start targeting them again? They shrug. “My Facebook account was blocked for an entire week,” says Vanessa Farrugia, 40, an office administrator in a law firm and an ACCA student. “Someone reported me as spam. But I work long hours, I have less than two hours a day to look at my phone. It’s not like I was mindlessly reposting and commenting all the time. It doesn’t bother me.”

The others nod in agreement and discuss the comments, good, bad and ugly. “I have to say, the laughing face emoji really does get to me,” says Alessandra Dee Crespo, 46, chancellor of the Church Court of Appeals. “Regardless of your opinions, how can you laugh at the execution of another human being?” She pauses for a moment. She is, of course, referring to the assassination of investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, which sparked the rise of the women’s pressure group to demand good governance, accountability from politicians and people in positions of authority, who are “there to serve us and not the other way around” – and, of course, justice.

“I’ve been called every name under the sun; I’ve been unfriended by people I’ve known for years. But that laughing

face emoji…” She doesn’t finish her sentence. There’s so much more in that little pictorial than a facial expression. Or perhaps less. Have you ever sent a personal, emotional message to a friend and been responded to with an emoji? Just a sad face; a computerised image; no phone call; no visit; no words. What can you say to an emoji? Nothing. The effects are silencing.

“Social media can sometimes work against us,” says lecturer Lee Ann Montanaro, 34. “In this case, everyone took to their phones. It went viral. Some of the comments made against us were disgusting, and in the end, I just stopped looking at my mobile. But what is actually happening in real life? Nothing. It’s silent. The silence speaks volumes.”

It seems, then, that a strange dichotomy has formed.

Active online participation in the debate surrounding Daphne’s murder is not equating to much activism in real life.

“Listen,” says Alessandra. “It would have been much more comfortable to stay at home. I could have just posted from my phone and not made a fuss. It would have been much easier.”

“SOME OF THE COMMENTS MADE AGAINST US WERE DISGUSTING, AND IN THE END, I JUST STOPPED LOOKING AT MY MOBILE. BUT WHAT IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING IN REAL LIFE? NOTHING. IT’S SILENT. THE SILENCE SPEAKS VOLUMES” So why, then, did these women brave that unwanted attention? What was it that compelled them to get off their phones and go, in person, to demonstrate outside Castille?

The women of #occupyjustice got together because they say both the government and the Opposition have failed them. They were “horrified” when, a few days after Daphne’s death, the government refused to debate the Opposition’s motion on the murder and wanted to continue as though it was business as usual… “and the Opposition caved in and discussed the Budget, rather than walking out in defiance”, says the group. At that point, they realised no one was going to speak up for them.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 19

WOMENSWORLD

“WHAT MOVED ME ENOUGH TO JOIN THE CAMPAIGN WAS THE NEED TO PROTECT OUR FUTURE GENERATIONS. I AM AN EDUCATOR. MY STUDENTS ARE MY CHILDREN. I AM FIGHTING TO SAFEGUARD THEM”

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“For me personally,” Vanessa adds, “Daphne’s murder Throughout this interview, I am constantly picturing finally brought the reality of violence home. This was no these women in scenes from history. Scenes of Maltese longer just a threat. I just couldn’t go on living in this women putting on their dead husbands’ armour, ready to country feeling unsafe, so I had to do something.” fight, or scenes of women dragging wounded bodies Ironically, the fear of actual violence would compel through the air raids of World War II. We are a nation that many to hide indoors and stay silent. History has taught has had no choice but to fight through history, and our us that public demonstrations can be dangerous places. I women have always provided strength when it was can certainly admit to not joining these women, purely needed most. Our courage, both male and female, has out of fear. I have two tiny children. Fellow mothers, we been awarded with the symbol that flies proudly across know that our role in life is to protect our kids, right? To our flag. keep them safe at all costs?

Yes, we are now a nation divided, and Daphne was, Lee Ann smiles, gently. “What moved me enough to without doubt, a decisive character. Martyred for her join the campaign was the need to protect our future geninvestigative journalism, she has become a beacon of erations. I am an educator. My students are my children. hope for justice, which she fought so strongly for. “It is our I am fighting to safeguard them.” turn to stand up now,” says Lee Ann. Alessandra nods. “#occupyjustice was also started by There are many ways to silence a population, and even mothers who wanted to fight for their children’s freedom more ways to silence a woman. But these women will not of speech. We stood up there, not just for Daphne, but for be silenced. They dropped everything; they joined the our silent majority, who whispered their support to us campaign; and they showed up for this interview. I have when the cameras were off.” a feeling they won’t be stopping anytime soon.

Let’s not forget the extreme measures people took to keep this majority silent and to put the protesting women in their Let’S heAr it for the WoMen WArriorS of 2017: place. To keep them where they should be: At home. In the kitchen. Not out on FIZA FARHAN: Aged TRACEE ELLIS the streets. only 30, this Pakistani ROSS: Listen to her “This should not have been a woman is a Ceo, runs teD talk on being a feminist issue,” says Vanessa. And a renewable energy childless woman of yet these women camping outside charity and campaigns colour. You will be Castille unwittingly found themfor women’s rights. inspired. selves not only fighting for justice, but And that’s just on REESE fighting misogyny too. Suddenly, they weekdays…

WITHERSPOON: became objects of sexualisation. We SERENA WILLIAMS: this year, she has all know how frustrating that is. this year, it became spoken up for “Fortunately, the comment that official – she is the everybody, from was made to put us in our place highest paid female women of age to had the opposite effect,” says Lee athlete in history. victims of assault.

Ann. “It made us speak even louder.”

Alessandra agrees. “I lived through the Yes, this list comprises only celebrities and businesswomen. So, 1980s,” she says. “We experienced very let’s add to it because we all know you don’t need to be either horrible times, yet we took to the streets to be a woman warrior. We want to hear about the everyday and fought, regardless of the comments #MalteseWomenWarriors and their strength that inspires you. and regardless of how people tried to keep Social media can be a force for good and a force for action. And us quiet. And we must keep fighting now we all know that it’s women who’ve got the most balls. for our freedom of speech; for our right to justice.”

Pink December 2017 ∫ 21

FOODFORTHOUGHT Holly Pisani

FRESH FOOD FEST

A wave of women entrepreneurs is revolutionising fast food on the island, delivering healthy, fresh meals when and where you want and putting paid to the excuse that we can’t eat well despite our good intentions. HELEN RAINE whets her appetite with their sin-free Christmas treats.

O

ne of the biggest challenges for working women is to eat well while keeping all the other plates spinning.

Convenience food is aptly named; it’s too easy to throw a packaged dinner into the shopping trolley when you’re pushed for time, regardless of the salt, fat and sugar content.

If you’re guilty of that dietary sin, this may be the way out for you. A wave of Maltese entrepreneurs is revolutionising fast food on the island, delivering healthy, fresh meals when and where you want them, without charging you the earth. And if Christmas catering is your personal nightmare, now is the time to try them out – they have lots of delicious seasonal goodies on the go.

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DOING IT WITH LOVE Holly PIsAnI, 28, is from swieqi and has a passion for food.

“This year, I decided I wanted to do something more hands-on, which could help people, so I set up Peas and love. I was inspired by a desire to eat wholesome, healthy food; having grown up in an area with plenty of farmland, we always had a lot of fresh fruit and veg.

“Working in Attard, I found it hard to find exciting, nutritious food close by. When you have an hour’s lunch break, travelling in traffic just for a bite to eat is impossible. I really wanted to fill the void, so I came up with a service where healthy food is delivered to your workplace at lunchtime

without breaking the bank,” she says.

The feedback has been “excellent”.

The service is all about health and convenience. “We focus on vegetarian food with a home-made feel. We experiment with different recipes every week, and the food is influenced by different cuisines from around the world, from lebanese and Thai … to local dishes like kusksu, kapunata and stuffed marrows,” Holly says, adding that she also runs little Peas and love, which helps busy parents by providing healthy school lunches.

Holly tries to give a personalised service, where she omits the ingredients individual clients don’t like. “People ask if I’ll introduce meat into the menu, but I found that by omitting it, I became more conscious

FOODFORTHOUGHT Yasmin de Giorgio

about nutrition. It hasn’t slowed the customers, as I think the menu is always varied enough,” she says.

Peas and Love also uses compostable and recyclable packaging, and tries to include mainly local and organic products, working closely with local farmers with the same business ethics.

This Christmas, you can expect seasonal food, such as pumpkin and sweet potato pie, or vegan Christmas log. https://www.facebook.com/peasandlove malta

HEALTH FOOD HOPPING YasmIn de GIorGIo, 30, owns The Grassy Hopper, a vegetarian and vegan café and food-delivery service based in Gzira and Valletta. she opened the business four years ago after travelling in south america and says “the inspiration came from all the amazing cafés I saw on my travels. They made healthy food exciting and colourful”.

The business offers healthy, plantbased lunches, with raw chocolate for dessert. sister company, Theobroma Cacao Collective, was, in fact, born out

of a love for healthy, raw desserts, but a lack of space to make them. so a kitchen and shop in Valletta, dedicated solely to these vegan and gluten-free delights, was opened.

The Grassy Hopper also teamed up with local start-up Fetchit to provide a delivery service by electric bike to most of the towns around the Valletta harbour, meaning you could get a meal delivered to eat at the office, or to take home for dinner.

For Christmas, it is offering traditional sweets made in a healthier way, without white sugar, or refined flours.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 25

FOODFORTHOUGHT Nella Grech

“We use organic cacao and vegan dairy substitutes. Our gluten-free mince pies and Christmas logs are always firm favourites and we also offer hampers,” Yasmin says. www.thegrassyhopper.com

LAYING IT BARE The meal service, Nvked, is owned by Nella GreCh, 21, from Gharghur and is underpinned by what she describes as “sustainability and the protection of the natural environment, as well as something that helps me grow as a person”.

Nvked provides nutritionally balanced ready-made meals, vegan desserts and alternatives to chemicalridden ‘health’ food like protein bars.

Meals are delivered frozen in recyclable and reusable oven-ready containers; once thawed, they only need a few minutes in the oven.

26 ∫ Pink December 2017

“THEIR YULETIDE OFFERINGS INCLUDE CHEESECAKES AND LOGS MADE USING ONLY RAW VEGAN INGREDIENTS” Nella says inspiration came from “my own struggle with finding time to prepare meals. Being on a long weight-loss journey and eating differently from the rest of my family meant I had to cook and prepare everything myself. Going to university and trying to keep up with life, it was not always possible to find the time.”

She met other dieters who found that “their weight-loss journey was also being sabotaged by the struggle to find time to prepare healthy food”

and realised there was a niche for her company, especially when she began experimenting with pastry and dessert making, which excludes dairy, eggs and animal-derived products.

Nvked was launched in October; their Yuletide offerings include cheesecakes and logs made using only raw vegan ingredients, as well as Christmas gift boxes and hampers full of treats and locally sourced vegan wines. www.nvkedmalta.com

WOMANKIND

Prima ballerina Diana Gould gave up her dance career when she married acclaimed violinist Yehudi Menuhin.

MARY GALEA DEBONO shows how her marriage brought an end to the vocation she had dedicated her life to.

ON

Sunday, October 19, 1947, Diana Gould married the internationally acclaimed violinist and conductor Yehudi Menuhin. It was a watershed moment in her life. For almost 25 years, ballet had been the vocation to which she had dedicated herself almost exclusively, but marriage brought to an end this phase of her life and ushered in a new one, where all her energy was channelled into her husband’s career.

Diana was born in London in 1912. Her childhood was rather difficult in spite of the fact that, materially, she lacked nothing. Her father died when she was a few years old. As for her mother, Diana could only describe her as “gloriously indifferent”. She was a pianist and was more interested in her Sunday musical evenings in her Belgravia home than in her three children, who saw her only in the evening when she came to say goodnight before going out and in the morning to wish them a good day.

When Diana showed interest in ballet, her mother contacted Mme Rambert, at the time the best teacher in London, and she started attending lessons at her school. It was thanks to this teacher that she was able to master the techniques of

this discipline from a very early age, but for this, she had to pay a very heavy price. Rambert was a hard teacher, often deliberately unkind and sarcastic in her criticism. Diana made a great effort to please her only to be rewarded by “constant and vituperative correction”.

In the 1920s and 1930s, interest in ballet in European capitals such as London and Paris increased dramatically due to the arrival of the most renowned Russian dancers and choreographers, who fled their country immediately before or soon after the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917. One such example was Sergei Diaghilev, the artistic director of the Ballets Russes, a company that had a great influence on dance performance in the 20th century.

One day, Rambert rang up Diana’s mother to ask her to send her daughter to the ballet studio with “a clean tunic” for an extra ballet lesson. Diana suspected that something was afoot and was very excited to find out what it was.

That day, Diaghilev visited Rambert’s school and, after having watched the class practising, he informed Diana that he had selected her to attend his prestigious school. Excited and elated that at the age of 14 she had been singled out by this great choreographer, she took the challenge very seriously, practising hard to be worthy of the honour. Unfortunately, before anything could come out of this promise, Diaghilev was dead.

Two years later and hardly over this first disappointment, the famous ballerina Anna Pavlova too visited Rambert’s school. This time, Diana dared not hope;

in fact, the impression she got was that the great ballerina – who later described Diana as “the only English dancer she’d seen who had a soul” – had not shown any particular interest in her performance during her exercises.

One can, therefore, imagine the surprise when, two weeks later, her mother received a letter from Pavlova informing her that she intended engaging her daughter as a soloist. Once again, Diana’s aspirations were thwarted before this piece of good luck could materialise; Pavlova died of pneumonia. Diana had a name for this black cloud that seemed to hover over every step of her career. She called it the Black Fairy. But she was determined not to let it dampen her spirit.

Such setbacks were minor frustrations, easy to endure compared with the general atmosphere endemic in theatre life, which had to be faced on a daily basis: the bitchiness; the gossip; the jealousy; the intrigues; the insecurity resulting from an over-populated profession, not to mention the physical pain that was part and parcel of the whole experience. “The Court of the Medici would appear like a nursery school,” wrote Diana in one of her two autobiographies.

Added to the in-fighting, the most debilitating aspect of life on the stage was the jostling for the main roles and – what has now become a very topical subject – the necessity of “the dreary bedding with one power or another to gain them”. It was well known that no headway in such a career could be made without succumbing to the man in charge.

Diana recalls that when, at one point, she was considering working in films, producer David Selznick’s representative in London warned her: “You’ll get nowhere unless you’re willing to sleep all the way up.

With your looks no one is going to dream of giving you a part in any other way.”

She narrates many personal experiences that shed light on this problem. One story she tells is about Alexander Korda, the well-known Hungarian film producer. He had shown interest in her, but she had given it little thought until a lull in her work occurred.

She then decided to contact him and they made an appointment to meet at the set where he was filming. Korda took her to a room upstairs, sent the secretaries away and locked the door behind him. She extricated herself from the situation, ran Pink December 2017 ∫ 29

WOMANKIND down the stairs and all the way to the train station.

Diana ends this episode with one short sentence: “Merle Oberon got the part.” She does not imply anything and neither should anyone. In fact, it would be wrong to infer that success in a stage career depends always and solely on favours bestowed for services rendered. But inherent in such situations is always the consideration that every woman must keep in mind: that by accommodating the man in power, there is always the possibility that she could be robbing a more deserving competitor.

Diana relates a number of such incidents. She describes how Léonide Massine offered her a role in a new ballet at a dinner “with his hands deployed under the table” while “glowing eyes above sought to seduce [her]”. But she narrates them without rancour; without accusations; without moralising; with the same innate humour that she reserves for commenting on her mother’s foibles. And because she never confused flirtation with sexual harassment, she knew how to handle the situations. Although she sometimes ‘blamed’ her upbringing for her “iron-clad virginity”, she remained convinced that not to give in was the correct behaviour.

When World War II broke out, many actors and dancers left for the US. Those who did not, like Diana, continued to give matinée performances because of the curfew. But the distraction and the tragedies that were a daily occurrence rendered entertainment almost absurd and frivolous. Wishing to combine her talents with the war effort, she joined an organisation dedicated to the entertainment of troops. Their first visit took them to Cairo and Alexandria in Egypt, where they spent four weeks of “glamourous entertainment”.

Their next stop was to be Naples, but instead, they ended up in war-torn Bari.

Diana and her dance companion soon discovered that the drunken and licentious soldiers encountered in the corridors of their seedy hotel when they returned to their room after the show proved to be more hazardous than the dangers of war.

On their journey back to Liverpool, having passed through the Straits of Gibraltar, they were chased by German submarines into the Atlantic in rough 30 ∫ Pink December 2017

“BECAUSE SHE NEVER CONFUSED FLIRTATION WITH SEXUAL HARASSMENT, SHE KNEW HOW TO HANDLE THE SITUATIONS. ALTHOUGH SHE SOMETIMES ‘BLAMED’ HER UPBRINGING FOR HER IRON-CLAD VIRGINITY, SHE REMAINED CONVINCED THAT NOT TO GIVE IN WAS THE CORRECT BEHAVIOUR”

Diana Gould with her husband Yehudi Menuhin

weather and Diana was asked to supervise a number of “Maltese mothers and their babies” in their daily drill. When she asked him how “this ethnic category” came to be on the boat, she was told these women and their babies were the result of “a draft of British infantrymen, who spent 24 hours in Malta on their way to the battlefields of the desert” a couple of years before.

Describing them as “a hundred mustard-faced women with babies to match”, whom she drove “like a herd of goats” during the drill, Diana derisively comments with an arrogant display of snobbery and prejudice: “Could there have been a pitch-dark blackout that fateful Maltese night?” Apart from the fact that no historical verification of this tall story exists in any of the annals of World War II, Diana seems to be very quick to condemn these poor women and shows no sympathy for their sorry plight, forgetting how the behaviour of some American and Canadian soldiers had irked her a few weeks earlier.

Diana describes September 29, 1944, as “the most portentous day” of her life. That day, her mother had invited Yehudi Menuhin for lunch. She had heard him playing his violin in concerts, but she had never had the opportunity of talking to him. Diana and Yehudi were immediately attracted to one another. He was then

married to Nola Nicolas, but his career had put a strain on their marriage, and when Diana met him, it was already dead.

However, Nola at first refused to grant him a divorce.

Diana went through a period of great uncertainty, anxiety and loneliness. Added to her preoccupations was her worry for her sister Griselda, who had been diagnosed with tuberculosis. She saw little of Yehudi, who was constantly on the move from one concert hall to another.

Tired and lonely, she lost interest in her dance and had no urge to submit herself to the “lascivious fumblings” common to all interviews for work on the stage. Also, as she confesses in her autobiography, she had no intention of getting in the way of a marriage – even if it had no significance either for Yehudi or his wife.

In her predicament, she found great support from Hephzibah, Yehudi’s sister, and her husband Lindsay Nicolas, who was Nola’s brother. They managed to convince Nola to accept the situation and grant the divorce.

One day, when sorting out his correspondence, Yehudi found that the necessary papers had arrived, and eight days later, he asked Diana whether she would consider marrying him. Her answer was that she would only if he was certain that that was what he himself wanted. They were married at the Chelsea Register Office in what she described as a “dismal ceremony”.

Diana brought up their own two children, as well as Yehudi’s two from his previous marriage; she furnished their three homes in California, London and Gstaad; she accompanied her husband on his tours, managed his work schedules, took charge of his appointments and correspondence and devoted time to writing her books. It was a demanding life, but one that gave her a sense of fulfilment.

In the forward to her autobiography, A Glimpse of Olympus, Yehudi acknowledges his indebtedness to her: “I am at the very centre of her universe... for she gives her every thought, counsel, courageous moral and physical support, indeed her unrestrained love to my life,” he wrote.

Exclusively distributed by Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Limited Tel: 21331553

SHOWSTOPPER

All about the blouse SMART, SIMPLE AND STILL A STATEMENT… Photography Andre Gialanze Styling Marisa Grima [marisagrima.com] Hair Dominic Bartolo @ Dreads Hairdressing Make-up Elaine Galea Model Elenoir @ Supernova MM

Blouse, €29.99; trousers, €24.99, both Lulu Boutique.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 33

SHOWSTOPPER

Top, €49; trousers, €55, both Miss Selfridge ∫ booties, €115, Aldo.

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SHOWSTOPPER

Top, €59.99; trousers, €59.99, both Cortefiel ∫ booties, €125, Aldo.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 35

SHOWSTOPPER

Top, €90; trousers, €85, both Monsoon ∫ mules, €85, Aldo.

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SHOWSTOPPER Blouse, €39.95; trousers, €59.95, both Benetton ∫ bag, €55, Aldo ∫ boots, model’s own.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 37

SHOWSTOPPER Top, €242; trousers, €191, both Joseph Ribkoff @ Mimi.

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SHOWSTOPPER Blouse, €279; trousers, €95, both Dor Boutique ∫ booties, €125, Aldo.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 39

SHOWSTOPPER Jacket, €95; trousers, €65; cap, €22.50; bag. €45, all Marks & Spencer ∫ earrings, €19.90, Aldo.

40 ∫ Pink December 2017

11, TOWER ROAD, SLIEMA T: 21313097 F: COCCINELLE MALTA

THEUNIFORM

OFF-CATWALK CRITIQUE Fashion blogger and stylist CAROLINE PARIS wouldn’t miss The Pink Fashion Show for the world.

And when she’s there, she’s actually following two.

Here are what she considers to be the off-catwalk stars of the night.

A

t a fashion show, there are always two catwalks: the one on the runway and the one in the audience. At this year’s ninth edition of The Pink Fashion Show, a number of guests pulled out all the stops to ensure that as much limelight would shine on them as on any model.

ALL BLAZERS A BLAZING The definite star of the show was the blazer and I’m not just saying that simply because I wore one. There were trouser suit versions alongside blazer and skirt styles. The blazers came in tuxedo options, velvet, plaid and printed fabrics.

From the catwalk Photography Justin Ciappara

RED HOT In second place at the show in Sherries Estates were the red shoe and over-the-knee boots. Red is definitely having a moment this winter, but most of all, where shoes are concerned, the pointed red stiletto boot as worn by Pavli Medvedova [left], is literally everywhere thanks to Balenciaga.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 43

THEUNIFORM

From the catwalk Photography Justin Ciappara

DRESSING GOWN GLAMOUR Kimono-style jackets in printed fabrics were also present, and this is actually a really great styling idea to take an outfit from simple to inspirational. Remember to add a belt as stylist Marisa Grima [left] did to define the waist and avoid it swamping you, especially if you are somewhat petite.

From the catwalk Photography Carlo Jourdan

FAKE HAS NEVER BEEN SO FASHION-FORWARD Faux fur is no longer a trend; it’s really just a standard part of a winter wardrobe nowadays. When people still wore real fur, it was just a trend for those who could afford it, but since faux fur is now highly affordable, it’s been widely adopted.

Photography Kurt Paris

44 ∫ Pink December 2017

PINK@THEPARTY The Pink Fashion Show, a Times of Malta event, was recently held at Sherries Estates in Burmarrad.

The ninth edition of the sought-after catwalk saw the participation of Aldo, Dor Boutique, Furla, Jennyfer, Kipling, Marks & Spencer, Monsoon, O’hea Opticians, Oltre, Parfois, Radley and Rosita Silk Photography Jonathan Borg, Justin Ciappara, Carlo Jourdan, Patrizia Madiona, Chris Sant Fournier

Pink December 2017 ∫ 47

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Behind the scenes and more… Photography Kurt Paris

Pink December 2017 ∫ 49

JENNYFER FURLA & OLTRE

DOR BOUTIQUE

50 ∫ Pink December 2017

MONSOON MARKS & SPENCER

KIPLING & RADLEY

Pink December 2017 ∫ 51

ROSITA SILK PARFOIS

O’HEA OPTICIANS

The Pink Fashion Show was supported by Casapinta Design Group, Campari, Chemimart, Diet Kinnie, Get Hitched, Jean Paul Gaultier, Lamb Weston, Liu Jo Fragrances, L’Occitane, Oral-B, Renault, San Carlo, Sherries Estates, Tettiera and Uno de 50. Models’ hair was by Screen Professional Hair Salons Malta and make-up by Guerlain.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 53

54 ∫ Pink December 2017

THINKPI BEAu & HInS

1 A SPECTACULAR WINTER

vanilla; while Classique is the irresistible temptation; a perfume of contrasts, carnal and inebriated, to seduce and to succumb.

For further details, contact Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd on 2133 1553.

It's going to be a spectacular winter with Jean Paul Gaultier! Turn over the Le Mâle and Classique collectors’ snow globe: the iconic bottles will appear through the snowflakes, revealing a red-striped marinière, or a red glossy corset, perfect for the holidays! Le Mâle is the power and freshness of mint, with lavender referencing the familiar and reassuring smell of shaving soap, and enhanced with the sensuality of

2 MY FRAGRANCE Mon Guerlain, the house's new fragrance, is a tribute to today’s femininity – a strong, free and sensual femininity, as inspired by Angelina Jolie. The bottle offers a contrast between strong taut lines and sensual curves, expressing contemporary femininity too. Guerlain is exclusively distributed by X-Treme Co. Ltd. For more information, call on 2388 2300.

3 AUTHENTICITY, VITALITY AND DIVERSITY Gucci Bloom is a scent designed to celebrate the authenticity, vitality and diversity of women flourishing in a natural, expressive and individual way. Blended by master perfumer Alberto Morillas under the direction of the House’s creative director, Gucci Bloom is created to unfold like its name, capturing the rich scent of a thriving garden filled with an abundance of flowers.

Rangoon Creeper, a unique flower discovered in South India, is being used for the first time in perfumery to create a rich fragrance that transports the wearer to an imaginary garden. The scent is presented in a lacquered bottle, reminiscent of porcelain, in a vintage powder pink shade with a Gucci label appliqué.

4 #MAN OF TODAY

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The BOSS man is primed to succeed – competitive, driven and ambitious. Vibrant with fresh and sensuous notes, the fragrance exudes distinction, sophistication and pure joie de vivre. Balanced with a fresh and fruity top note, the warm, spicy-floral heart is dominated by geraniums and seasoned with just a dab of clove. The base note is decidedly male, a vibrating harmony of sandalwood, cedar and vetiver.

Purchase any BOSS Bottled fragrance and be in the chance to win an iPhone 8 plus. For trade enquiries, contact VJ Salomone Marketing on 8007 2387.

2

5 YOUR #NOFILTER SMILE Oral-B’s new 3D White Luxe Perfection Toothpaste works much like an exfoliator, with revolutionary stain-dissolving micro-granules to remove up to 100 per cent of surface stains in three days, so you can enjoy life without worrying about your bright, white, #nofilter smile. It has a most advanced and effective whitening ingredient, making it an essential part of any beauty routine. It also contains soluble sodium fluoride to strengthen enamel and help prevent cavities to keep your smile healthy, white and beautiful.

Christmas gift ideas have never come easier. Check out our list of the latest fragrances out there for him and her – and products to enhance our looks. But, hey, you can go even larger, with, say, a crossover car…

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4

5

6 EVEN MORE DISTINCTIVE The Renault Captur, Europe’s best-selling urban crossover, has reinvented itself to feature more distinctive styling and new advanced technologies, without sacrificing any of its user friendliness. It builds on the original model’s success, including its striking two-tone colour scheme by introducing additional new colours – a total of 30 potential combinations, plus six interior customisation packs.

The fixed glass roof, which provides an even brighter cabin, is another main feature. Prices start at €18,250. www.autosales.com.mt/model/renaultcaptur-dynamique-nav

7 HANDS ON

7 6

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With hands that are constantly busy, challenged by frequent washing and damaged by the environment, pollution, sun, wind and cold, it is essential to take care of them to preserve their beauty and youthfulness. Inspired by the beautifying hand cream created by Mademoiselle Chanel in 1927, Chanel now reinvents this essential step with La Crème Main. It’s a complete care product for hands and nails that leaves skin moisturised, velvety and radiant; an all-in-one on-the-go item. Chanel is distributed by Alfred Gera & Sons Ltd.

TRENDSETTER

CUTTING IT AT CHRISTMAS It’s been a tough few months in Malta and we all need some Christmas sparkle to lighten the mood. Here’s how to add a little festive fashion light into your life this Noel. sweater, or even a cow-herding Heidistyle alpine pattern. “Arm Knits” are also everywhere [a technique where knitters use their arms instead of needles]. Allegedly, it takes just an hour to knit an ultra-chunky scarf using this method.

Given the weather, it’s a bonus that Puffa jackets are having a renaissance, with a metallic duvet look all over the catwalks. Working women could splash out on the crisp tailoring trend too; for a Christmas twist, try a doublebreasted jacket in ultra-bling metallic fabric. Body suits are still in, whether it’s plush velvet, or exotic silk – the challenge is finding the right bottoms to go with them. Zara pulls it off with a scarlet wrap number, which they team with high-waisted leggings. Not an outfit that would work post-turkey, but perfect for Christmas Eve.

or go for gold glittery lipstick.

Implausibly, Avril Lavigne’s winged eyeliner is also back, with Chloe making up their models with the punky look of the mid-2000s.

What to avoid? It goes without saying that make-up tested on animals is a big no-no.

Where possible, switch to naturally-based products too, and reduce the amount of chemicals going down the drain.

What to avoid?

Anything designed by Ivanka Trump – if she can’t bring herself to speak out about her father’s blatant misogyny, you don’t want her nasty velvets on your body, or your money in her bank account.

COOL CLOTHES When Vogue’s Paris edition runs a piece on cosy winter knits, you can’t ignore the trend any longer. Blogger Dorianne Mamo is running with it, wearing “oversized knitted dresses” paired with boots to keep out the chill. She is also a huge fan of blanket scarves, saying “I wear them practically every day during the cold months”. If you want to add some festive humour into your wardrobe, try an ironic Christmas

MAGIC MAKE-UP Dorianne is keeping it simple this year, with burgundy lips and mascara: “If you have a bold lip during Christmas, you’re good to go,” she says. For bigger nights out, a soft version of the smoky eye is trending, using taupes, greys and shimmery shadows. If you’re brave, you can try a line of glitter just below the brows, as seen at Alexis Mabille’s show, Pink December 2017 ∫ 61

TRENDSETTER hair, kinky is king; if your barnet is dead straight, add your own kinks with straighteners as seen at The Pink Fashion Show.

What to avoid? Don’t mistake a lob for a mob [mum bob]. The former is ultra-cool; the latter looks like a helmet because it has too much volume. You also need to be careful not to accidentally end up with a mullet by trying to keep some length while cutting your hair short.

We’ve already established that having it all is a pipe dream.

CRACKING COCKTAILS

as amari, vermouth, sherry and Aperol [think Italian aperitifs that are good for daytime drinking]. Healthy cocktails are huge, using freshly squeezed juices flavoured with real mint, or ginger, rather than syrups. The smoky trend continues, with quality whiskeys, such as Laphroaig or Oban, being paired with grapefruit juice and bitters.

Mulled wine is always in, and Dorianne will be drinking a cup or two this year.

Bartenders are also mixing up drinks with a [slightly] lower alcohol content, using spirits such

What to avoid? Black-outs – Maltese teenagers are some of the biggest binge drinkers in Europe and our students rank fifth in the world in the binge-drinking tables. Know your limits and don’t get behind the wheel after a drink.

SHOE-HOO

ACTION ALERT

Metallic statement heels are furnace hot this year, with everyone from Prada to Proenza Schouler trotting them out on the catwalks. Slouchy boots are also a hit; there’s still a waiting list on the famous rhinestone-studded pair by Yves Saint Laurent, but you can pick up a cheaper version instantly online at Urban Outfitters [€62.30], or New Look [€49.99].

Maltese democracy is in a perilous state this Christmas and only the people can save it.

Think about a subject you are passionate about; women’s rights, the environment, animal welfare, freedom of the press, or the right to roam in what’s left of your own countryside. Now make 2018 the year when you do something about it. Grass-roots activism has never been more important and there are lots of organisations in Malta that need your help to effect change. Find one, join it and reject the culture of corruption and kickbacks; or start your own organisation if you can’t find a group that works for you. This is a country filled with bright young things and an incredible entrepreneurial spirit – it’s time to stop the old political guard from dragging the nation down.

What to avoid? Glass slippers – being singled out by a prince isn’t enough [we’ll make an exception for Meghan Markle].

HOT HAIR Lifestyle blogger Grazielle Camilleri Ahlgren says “the lob [long bob] is so in.

Most celebs have kicked off this trend, which has taken everywhere by storm.

Side-swept bangs are the easiest way to upgrade a wavy lob. The bonus is that they look super-cute tucked under fall and winter hats”. Emma Stone, Kendall Jenner [pictured right] and Carey Mulligan are rocking the look, but it’s a style that flatters almost everyone and is [supposedly] easy to look after. For long 62 ∫ Pink December 2017

What to avoid? Voting for the status quo by doing nothing.

ACCESSORYSTORY

THE STUFFLESS STOCKING Useless gifts are not just bad for feng shui; they’re also bad for the environment when they get chucked. But it’s not hard to break the cycle: shifting the present-buying focus from ‘items’ to ‘experiences’, or buying consumables, are two ways to do it. To help you make the change this year, Pink has a handy list of gifts that will fit in a stocking without leaving a yeti-sized eco footprint.

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n 2015, Marie Condo’s book, The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, went viral. Millions of people read it and were inspired to ransack their cupboards and drawers, chucking out anything that didn’t ‘spark joy’ and was, therefore, sucking the Zen out of a room.

What Condo failed to address was how all that junk got there in the first place. If she’d looked into it, she would have identified the festive season as a major culprit. The vast majority of us will receive several presents we don’t really want this year, and we’ll also gift plenty of items that will find their way to the back of the wardrobe until they get ‘Condo’d’ again. That’s not just bad for our feng shui; it’s awful for the environment too, with many items heading straight to landfill.

“THE VAST MAJORITY OF US WILL RECEIVE SEVERAL PRESENTS WE DON’T REALLY WANT THIS YEAR, AND WE’LL ALSO GIFT PLENTY OF ITEMS THAT WILL FIND THEIR WAY TO THE BACK OF THE WARDROBE UNTIL THEY GET ‘CONDO’D’ AGAIN” It’s not hard to break the cycle.

Shifting the present-buying focus from ‘items’ to ‘experiences’ is one way to do it. Another option is to buy consumables; things that people can eat, slather on their body, or otherwise use up. To help you make the change this year, we’ve got a handy list of classy local gifts that will fit in a stocking without leaving a yeti-sized eco footprint.

64 ∫ Pink December 2017

ACCESSORYSTORY Guido’s Spice Centre Guido stocks all sort of spices in cute containers. From staples like red pepper and nutmeg to freshly blended artisanal mixes, such as Hot BBQ and Chimicurry, they’ll have something to solve your Christmas conundrum. The company also sells herbal tea mixes and organic sprouting seeds. You can find them at various Christmas and craft markets around the island, where they’re often cooking delicious tasters with their spicy flavours. They are online at www.facebook.com/GuidosSpiceCorner

a unique blend of exotic fruits, flowers and spices, and depicted by its very own burlesque dancer. Try their Undine LaVerve scent [rose petal, lemon peel, musk and blackcurrant], Bella Rae [lavender and mint], or Dita [ambered sandalwood and French vanilla]. You can find them at craft fairs or at www.etsy.com/shop/BurlesqueCandleStore

provide hampers varying from a couple of products to a basket full.

Find their goodies at The Meat Shop in Zebbug, the Adelphi Restaurant and Chalk in Rabat, and the Zigumar Restaurant in Bugibba.

Sam’s Bits and Bites

Fancy Biscuits and More What could be cuter than a niece’s name spelled out in cookies, turtle biscuits for a nephew, or a Naked Hummingbird cake with pineapples, bananas and pecans.

Well, perhaps you could keep that one for yourself. Claudia Muscat Farrugia does this as a hobby, but you can always check her out on www.facebook.com/fancy biscuitsandmore

Burlesque Candles are consumables too, so check out Burlesque’s selection, made from 100per-cent clean-burning soy wax and free from artificial ingredients, petrochemicals and paraffin. They’ll burn for around 50 hours, after which time they’ll cease to exist, leaving nothing for Marie Condo to fixate on. Each candle is handmade from

Sam is focusing on healthy treats this Christmas and her products include berry granola, mince pies [using a mix of superfood berries], raw gingerbread men, star cookies and mini raw Christmas pudding. The company can cater for any food intolerances if you ask in advance. She’s based in Naxxar and also available to cater for events. Order through www.facebook.com/samsbitsandbites

Rooted: Homemade with Love Essential oils have been around for way longer than modern medicine and many of their properties are used in products that are very familiar to us, such as the menthol and eucalyptus found in Vicks Vapour Rub. Rooted makes the most of Mother Nature’s gifts with their selection of lip balms, foot soaks, bath salts and body scrubs. They even dry their own herbs and flowers to make your gifts. Order products from www.facebook.com/RootedWithLove

Talpe’ Talpe’ products are a range of pickles and preserves straight from Patrick Gauci’s land in Dingli. The hot chili paste is made from a blend that might include the habanero, long john, cayenne, rawit, lemon drop and orange Thai chili. It’s then lacto-fermented and aged in oak barrels for an “explosion of emotions”. If you don’t like heat, there’s a sweet chili version. Patrick also produces his own extra virgin olive oil as well as peach and plum jam, marinated Maltese green olives and carob syrup. The company can

Something Different If you’ve got a bit more cash, then consider buying your loved ones an experience. www.somethingdifferent.com.mt offers an incredible range of products.

How about a €50 voucher for a haircut at Toni & Guy, €100 to spend on wining and dining at the Fortress, or €55 for a quad bike experience in Gozo? You can even gift a medium-sized tattoo for €118 if you feel so inclined.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 65

PINKSHRINK

CHRISTMAS STUDIES For those who dread the thought of Christmas, the true and positive effects of the rituals and traditions we take for granted about the celebration could change their point of view.

Dott. EDWARD CURMI gathers some of the most intriguing psychological findings from studies on the feast.

F

or many years, researchers have been busy trying to understand the attitudes and behaviour of people around Christmastime.

The results of these studies are pretty amazing and here are some of the most interesting findings.

The importance of music Don’t underestimate the positive effect on human nature of Christmas carols even if they have been heard ad nauseam. At the University of Oldenburg, Prof. Gunter Kreutz has clearly proved that they have magical powers. The more we sing and dance to them, the less likely we are to feel distressed and irritated. Christmas music has the capacity to brighten up our mood, make us happier through the interplay of breathing, body posture, gestures and harmonious sounds.

Christmas teaches us the art of waiting According to psychologist Walter Mischel, another positive aspect of Christmas is that it teaches us to delay gratification. In his study, he conducted an experiment where a number of four-year-olds were left alone in a room with a marshmallow.

Those who resisted the temptation to eat it were given two.

Ten years down the line, Dr Mischel interviewed all his participants and the results were rather interesting. He noted

that the children who had managed to resist the temptation to eat the marshmallow in the past experiment were happier, higher achievers and developed efficient working habits.

This study teaches us that if we learn to wait, we are likely to feel more satisfied.

Christmas calendars are all about teaching us to wait a day at a time for the big day. Around Christmas, we often encourage our children to write Christmas lists to Santa Claus. These are all good examples of how we can teach our children to delay gratification and not get stuck in the ‘immediate now’.

Christmas is important to adults Human beings are social animals who love to interact and build a sense of community.

We all know that no man is an island, and Christmas happens to be one of those rituals that allows us to connect with other people. For many, it fosters a strong sense of belonging, where families and friends meet up to wish each other well. Its spiritual meaning also allows us to feel more complete and part of something bigger.

The perfect gift So much research has focused on trying to understand the psychology of giftgiving. Although there seem to be conflicting studies, sociologist Holger Schwaiger believes that gifts are a sort of

currency. Basically, giving a gift is one way of communicating with another person.

According to Schwaiger, gift-giving must be reciprocated. His study also points out that unlike what many think, gift-giving is not a materialistic matter, but rather an emotional interplay.

Another interesting study on the same lines was conducted in 2008 by economists Thomas Bauer and Christoph Schmidt. In their study, they confirmed that gift-giving has an emotional impact on each and every one of us.

These studies allow us to understand that gift-giving may be a more complex issue than we would think. Also, most research seems to be leaning towards the idea that we should consider giving others monetary vouchers as, indirectly, we are telling that person that we value them as much as we chose to spend on them. But can we really put a price tag on a person?

Bring out the holly Psychologist Steve McKeown strongly suggests that Christmas decorations evoke childhood feelings, which elicit excitement and evoke nostalgia. Hanging a stocking by the chimney, baking a Christmas log, or setting up a Christmas tree are clever ways for us to recreate the magic, or to hark back to our lost childhood. Therefore, in a world full of stress and anxiety, it may be wise to bring out the Christmas decorations earlier, as this is likely to make you feel happier.

On a similar note, a study conducted for the Journal of Environmental Psychology revealed that there seems to be a correlation between people who decorate their houses and being open and sociable to neighbours. This study shows that when people decorate the façade of their houses, unconsciously, they are allowing their neighbours to feel less isolated and more welcome to participate in social activities in the community.

Dott. Edward Curmi is a registered clinical psychologist, psychotherapist and author of the book Common Sense: a Better Understanding of Emotional Well-being, and its sequel More Common Sense: a Better Understanding of Emotional Well-being, available from Agenda Bookshops.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 69

PARENTINGTIPS

SPOILED ROTTEN? Educational and child psychologist Dr STEPHANIE SATARIANO asks whether it matters how many presents your children get? What does spoiling children really mean? Are we setting our children up to be overindulged and to have a strong sense of entitlement? She also has the answers.

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shton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have decided not to give their children Christmas presents; they have even asked all their family not to give any. Are they doing the right thing? This has received mixed feedback, with some people commending them for not ‘spoiling’ their children; others condemning them for ruining Christmas.

SO WHAT’S THE ‘RIGHT’ THING TO DO? Life is filled with opportunities to teach your children life lessons; to develop their values and beliefs. Christmas is also such a time. Does it matter how many presents your children get? What does spoiling your children really mean? Are we setting our children up to be overindulged and have an automatic sense of entitlement?

Children can be overindulged at Christmastime; they can be showered with presents they don’t need, sometimes don’t even want and won’t look at again once they’ve opened them.

When we give children too much, we teach them to expect not to give. But no

one can deny that seeing that gleeful look on your child’s face on Christmas morning is an unforgettable experience.

So how do you find a balance without ‘ruining’ the fun of Christmas?

Firstly, try to help children understand the effort that has gone into each present. You can even try to pace the number of presents they open.

Try as best as you can to limit the abundance of presents. Help family members plan presents. Bear in mind the four gifts of Christmas: one thing you need, one thing you want, one thing you

appreciating it. Help them understand that the thought behind the gift is as important as the gift.

You can try to create other traditions, activities and events that will also symbolise Christmas and create as much excitement as the abundance of presents. What about cookie-making on Christmas morning, a treasure hunt for the Christmas presents, or matching PJs on Christmas Eve? Use it as a time to celebrate kindness and consideration. Create an ‘Elf of Kindness’, who monitors and notices when family members do considerate things. Instead of a chocolate advent calendar, create notes for each day leading up to Christmas about what you love most about your children.

“INSTEAD OF A CHOCOLATE ADVENT CALENDAR, CREATE NOTES FOR EACH DAY LEADING UP TO CHRISTMAS ABOUT WHAT YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR CHILDREN” can wear and one thing you can read.

This provides a good balance of gifts, and stops the overflow of toys that aren’t needed.

You can also use this as a time to develop your children’s social skills, and develop their Theory of Mind and perspective taking; if they get a gift they don’t like, teach them to accept this gracefully, and understand that they could hurt someone’s feelings by not

Using Christmas as a time to promote giving and kindness, not just receiving, is a great way to counterbalance the overindulgence. Go shopping with your children to buy presents to donate to others; get your children to choose them.

Ultimately, it is up to you to use a time filled with love and family as an experience to help your children grow and develop into the adults you want them to be.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 71

TABLETALK

Currying flavour

INGREDIENTS Serves 4 1 tsp coriander seeds 1 tsp cumin seeds 1 3cm piece cinnamon bark ½ tsp garam masala 1 leek, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 5cm piece fresh turmeric, peeled and finely chopped 1 5cm piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped About 200g roasted vegetables, or chopped carrots, courgettes, mushrooms 300g cooked turkey, or chicken 150ml coconut cream 250g basmati rice, rinsed and cooked Mango chutney, optional

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MARIA CACHIA’s Christmas leftover lunch has a tangy twist to it as she spices up the remainder turkey and roast veg with seeds and seasoning.

METHOD In a dry hot pan, toast the seeds and the cinnamon for about 30 seconds. Remove from the pan and place onto a plate. Once they are cool enough to handle, grind the spices.

In a large frying pan, pour some oil and add the chopped leek and sauté for a few minutes, or until the leek is softer. Add the ground spices and garam masala and cook for a few minutes more.

Add the garlic, turmeric and ginger and the leftover or fresh vegetables. Once they are cooked through, add the chopped turkey, or chicken, and coconut cream.

Turn the temperature to the lowest setting and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the turkey or chicken and vegetables are piping hot.

Serve with rice and chutney.

TRAVELOGUE

HAVE YOURSELF A CATHOLIC LITTLE CHRISTMAS What better time than Christmas to dwell on what you have and whether you deserve it. The Maltese spent around €400 per person on gifts at Christmas in 2012 and one can only imagine that figure has risen dramatically since. We take a look at whether other Catholic countries go to town in the same way and whether Christmas is any less fun when you’re on a tight budget.

IN BRAZIL Brazil has 11 per cent of the world’s Catholics with over 127 million people following the religion. Brazilians spend comparatively little at Christmas [less than $200 per person, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers – PwC], partly because 25 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line.

Still, even Christmas consumerism works around a Catholic calendar here. Many shops run promotions for high value goods that allow people to get the item immediately and only start paying after Carnaval, right before Lent.

There’s also a ‘13th salary’ in Brazil – workers get double pay in December to help them stay on budget at this busy time of year.

Religious traditions still dominate. In a nod to the formal colonial power of Portugal, you’ll find nativity scenes called Presepio, especially in northeastern Brazil. Midnight Mass is widely celebrated on Christmas Eve, and caroling is popular too.

Depending on the budget, Brazilians will eat beans and rice, or turkey with all the trimmings, and even panettone. People will also go to see Christmas plays called Os Pastores [The Shepherds], which include the drama of a shepherdess trying to make off with Baby Jesus.

THE PHILIPPINES The Philippines is the third largest Catholic population in the world, with 85 per cent of inhabitants identifying as Catholic. Like the Brazilians, Filipinos get that lucky 13th

salary for Christmas, and in a country that loves shopping, it tends to go quickly. Spending on alcohol and tobacco shoots up by almost 40 per cent around Christmastime, as does ‘recreation and culture’, while food spending increases by over 25 per cent, compared to the rest of the year.

After Christmas, spending goes down again dramatically.

A quarter of Filipinos live below the poverty line [by comparison, 16 per cent of Maltese live below the ‘at risk of poverty’ line).

Although shopping features heavily, the festive season is still strongly rooted in religious devotion and it starts early.

Carols kick in around September when the Christmas countdown begins, and can keep going until the Feast of the Santo Niño on the third Sunday of January. Novenas are big, with prayers being offered for nine days before Christmas Eve in predawn Masses, called Simbang Gabi and modelled on the Mass of the Rooster in Spain; they can start as early as 3 a.m.

Mass is followed by a breakfast of traditional foods, including putò bumbóng [where purple rice is steamed in bamboo tubes, then liberally buttered and covered with brown sugar and coconut], bibingka [a rice cake cooked in a clay pot], pan de sal, or arroz caldo porridge.

Las Posadas is a 400-yearold tradition in which the

faithful re-enact the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.

Decorations include the paról [ from the Spanish word farol, or light], which represents the star of Bethlehem, as well as nativity scenes. Both were likely introduced by the Spanish after they conquered the islands in the 1600s.

the cities. Dessert might be a bolo-rei [king cake], which is a sweet Portuguese dessert.

Catholics make pilgrimages to mission churches, and just like in Malta, getting together as a family is important and relatives will travel long distances to spend Christmas at home.

ANGOLA

The Irish are the top Christmas spenders in the world, with shoppers shelling out $1,200 per person, according to PwC [the UK and the US were right behind them]. Despite the demise of the Celtic Tiger [Ireland’s economic boom], just nine per cent of Irish live in poverty so the average person still has enough disposable income [or access to credit] to splash out at Christmas.

Cambridge University Press also notes that the keywords ‘shopping’ and ‘sales’ are now used more often than ‘Jesus’ and ‘goodwill’ at Christmas.

About 78 per cent of people identified as Catholics in the 2016 Irish Census [down from 84 per cent in 2011 and considerably lower than Malta’s 95 per cent].

Despite the move away from the Church, religious ceremony is key during the Christmas period, which officially kicks off on December 8. People sing carols [the Wexford Carol dates back to the 12th century and tells the story of the Nativity]. Midnight Mass is an obvious fixture, with churches packed on Christmas Eve. On January 6, Women’s Christmas sees the ladies putting their feet up [supposedly], while the men do the housework and take down the decorations.

Nollaig Shona Duit to that!

IRELAND Christmas in Angola is less about buying and more about eating. Although people do purchase presents, the exchange of gifts is not overemphasised, according to local author Adebayo Oyebade. That’s partly financial – a quarter of the population is unemployed and 87 per cent of urban Angolans live in shanty towns and spend 50 per cent of their income on food. Two-thirds of the population live on less than $2 a day. The economic situation is a hangover from the war of independence, the civil war and rampant corruption.

People in the villages will save all year just to have enough extra money to feast. Cows, goats and chickens are reared to be slaughtered for Christmas dinner and families will buy extra rice and pasta. Those with more money try to share with others in need. Pirão ou funge [polenta made of cornmeal, or cassava roots] features heavily, but spaghetti, chips and fried chicken are frequent accompaniments, especially in

Pink December 2017 ∫ 77

STARGAZER

THE FUTURE IS

PINK ARIES MARCH 20-APRIL 18 Ordinarily, your gift for thinking and moving swiftly is an asset. With various elements of your world, from personal arrangements to work or finances, shifting dramatically, slow your pace and ask questions before you take action. Because others are facing similar situations, discuss any dilemmas. This will result in worthwhile insights.

Still, be prepared to let once-prized arrangements go and, meanwhile, to explore unfamiliar options.

Within a short time, you’ll learn so much you’ll begin to recognise how promising they are.

CANCER JUNE 21-JULY 21 After a tricky late 2017, you begin 2018 feeling upbeat. What’s going gives hints about what’s next, especially what happens after the powerful Cancer New Moon on January 2.

Tempting as it is to turn these into lasting plans immediately, focus on exploring every option, from those that are familiar to completely unanticipated events, or offers. This is about new ideas, places and people in a world that’s changing, and often in delightful ways. Knowing that, final decisions can wait.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 22-OCTOBER 22 Because you carefully weigh up even simple decisions, you rarely need to alter them.

However, with the foundation on which these are based shifting from early December and continuing to February, you’re urged to adopt a more experimental approach. Strange as this seems initially, you’ll enjoy altering habits and arrangements, and venturing into unfamiliar territory. While you can’t avoid making decisions, if you’re aware changes are likely, and more than once, you can afford to explore what’s surprising or intriguing.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 21-JANUARY 18 You’re in a cycle of both personal review and change in your lifestyle, perspective and activities out in the world. This is kickstarted by the move by your ruler Saturn into Capricorn on December 20. From that point, a combination of events, personal insights and ideas or offers from others broaden your horizons in exciting, if often unexpected, ways. Knowing that, be inquisitive about everything. And ensure plans are flexible enough you can deal with surprising but, usually, welcome twists and turns.

According to astrologer SHELLEY VON STRUNCKEL… TAURUS

APRIL 19-MAY 19 For ages, you’ve sensed certain elements of your life needed to be rethought if not changed radically. The encounter between your ruler Venus and powerful Saturn, newly arrived in its own sign, Capricorn, on December 25, begins a timely cycle of analysis both of what must change or go, and of new options. This is most intense during January, but over the coming months, you’ll continue to venture into unfamiliar areas, personally, professionally, and perhaps discover a new passion along the way.

LEO JULY 22-AUGUST 21 For ages, you’ve known certain activities, from work to your health and well-being to various obligations, would need analysis. Suddenly, it’s clear a rethink is overdue. Make this your priority, even if it means rescheduling other arrangements. The resulting insights will lead to both changes and the realisation you must review your priorities. Even then, as you proceed, questions will arise. The solution? Explore and experiment, but avoid commitment. This freedom will be as instructive as what you learn and ultimately decide.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23-NOVEMBER 21 You’re right to pride yourself on being super aware of what’s going on in the world, in the lives of others and in your own life. Yet with Jupiter, which accents growth and good fortune, in Scorpio until November, and broadening your horizons, and canny Saturn challenging both your habits and longstanding views, you’ll be venturing into unfamiliar territory, often and in all sorts of settings. While unsettling initially, the resulting experiences and encounters will dramatically broaden your perspective and, ultimately, enhance your life.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 19-FEBRUARY 17 While you can’t plan for the unexpected, if you’re aware the Aquarius eclipsed New Moon in mid-February will trigger shifts in circumstances and your priorities, then you’ll be more relaxed about January’s many twists and turns. Every sign will be facing an array of unexpected events, which means even simple plans will change, and often.

Take advantage of that to learn about others’ ideas and objectives but, as much, to get their feedback about yours. The resulting brainstorming will benefit everybody, especially you.

Visit www.shelleyvonstrunckel.com to learn more and order your own chart.

GEMINI MAY 20-JUNE 20 The year 2017 ends with challenging but exciting ideas, offers and changes. As a result, January’s about decisions, major and minor. However, since these changes are ongoing, avoid making plans just to organise things. Instead, work closely with others, possibly leaving the planning to them.

This prevents you wasting time seeking elusive facts. Besides, with eclipses in late January and midFebruary triggering yet more twists and turns, you’ll want to be well informed and flexible enough you’re able to delve into sudden and intriguing events.

VIRGO AUGUST 22-SEPTEMBER 21 Productive as the past several years have been, the focus has been more on duty than fun, and you need a break. On December 20, the practical Saturn shifts to accent life’s joys, so from January onward, you’re in a lengthy cycle that’s about analysing what, and who, truly delights you. So instead of planning ahead, as you’d normally do, make a point of meeting new people and exploring new pursuits and places.

The resulting insights will surprise you and broaden your horizons, often dramatically.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 20 Clear cut as decisions made in late 2017 seem, you’ll soon be changing them, often and in completely unexpected ways. While you’re naturally inquisitive, long ago you decided certain activities, people, or places weren’t your thing, so avoid them. Yet destiny seems determined to challenge those views and, in the process, broaden your horizons. This is about eliminating restrictive thinking. The resulting adventures are just the beginning.

By late January, your perspective and plans will be dramatically different and unexpectedly exciting.

PISCES FEBRUARY 18-MARCH 19 January is all about change. Consequently, your powerful instincts will make it easy to spot the promise in even unsettling events.

However, as you’ll soon notice, certain individuals will complain and others refuse to get involved.

While ordinarily you’d try to reassure them, they’ll have to learn for themselves. Meanwhile, you’ll be focusing on thrilling and often unexpected offers that could take you in exciting directions via travel, study, or even deep inner reflection. Here, too, these decisions are yours to make.

Pink December 2017 ∫ 81

SNAPSHOT

IN LOVE WITH ROCK Pop-rock singer-songwriter Cheryl Balzan is performing at APS Teatru Unplugged next week. She tells Pink it’s the audience that makes all the difference, and this is the main reason why she is looking forward to performing at its 20th edition.

APS Teatru Unplugged 20 is being held at the University Theatre, Msida, on December 14, 15 and 16. Tickets are available from www.ticketline.com.mt

And if you had to choose any of the world’s stages, what would it be? For an

released three songs together as a duo – Room Full of Tears, Sweet Sister and Calling Out My Name, with which we ended up finalists in an international competition – definitely a highlight.

intimate unplugged set, somewhere like the Royal Albert Hall would be amazing.

several venues, it’s the audience that makes all the difference. This is the main reason why I am so looking forward to performing at the 20th edition of Teatru Unplugged.

What do you think is the secret of success of an event that has lasted two decades, with a format that remains practically unchanged? A successful

event is due to dedication, preparation and passion, which I believe were present throughout these 20 years.

82 ∫ Pink December 2017

When you’re not singing, what do you do that gives you equal pleasure?

playing a mix of originals and covers.

And what has been the highlight of the last five years – since the duo Cheryl & Chris released a song? We’ve now

You’ve appeared in various venues around Malta and in small festivals in the UK. What does it mean to you to perform at the 20th edition of Teatru Unplugged? Even though I’ve played in

Is there a type of music you cannot stand? R’n’B!

Playing the guitar is very stimulating since it drives me to write music.

What’s the best thing about being on stage? It is a fantastic opportunity to

chemistry, while performing solo needs less effort in a sense since it is less timeconsuming. In reality, I have no preference.

Both have their pros and cons.

our shores, but it takes great investment, which is a limitation.

What can the audience expect from your performance at TU20. Will you be playing any of your own songs? Yes, we will be

off playing classic guitar at the age of eight until I eventually heard the unplugged MTV session of Nirvana and fell in love with rock music. Song-writing started mainly when I met Chris Tanti and we collaborated on a project together.

What’s the difference between performing as a duo and going solo, and what do you prefer? Playing as a duo requires a certain

Are opportunities limited for a musician in Malta, or do you feel you can fly here? Opportunities exist mostly beyond

engage with an audience and express yourself through music.

And someone to duet with? If it had to be a

local artist, it would definitely be Ira Losco, or Errol Sammut of Airport Impressions, whereas on the international stage, I would pick Depeche Mode frontman Dave Gahan.

What is your day job, and do you wish that it could be music? For the

time being, my full-time job is in

Photography Perfect Image Studios

W

hen did it all start – the singing, song-writing, pop and rock? I started

accountancy. However, anyone who has a passion for music would certainly wish to do it full-time too.