Musc Noir For Her By Narciso Rodriguez – A Fragrance Hug From Perfume Direct – by Dr Kathleen Thompson, Best Selling Author

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So it’s cold, wet and stormy, Christmas parties are history and hot sunny days seem light years away. We can’t even comfort eat thanks to those extra Christmas kilos and it’s dry January, so what to do?

We really need a hug. Yes, OK a literal hug from our nearest and dearest would be great too, but how about a self-indulgent hug? A little something to get us through January and February, labelled by some as the toughest months?

For my hug, I usually head straight to Perfume Direct. After all, a beautiful fragrance has the power to create instant happiness, not just for you, but everyone within range, so really I’m performing a public service. What’s great about Perfume Direct is the oodles of useful information and advice, so comprehensive that you can easily choose a new perfume even remotely. Do check out the Perfume Direct Guide to Fragrance Strengths and Types. Their Fragrance Wheel explains perfume types – Floral, Woody, Oriental etc – and you can even search Perfume Direct by your chosen type which is so useful if you’re looking for inspiration.

They’re a UK company, with a large purchasing network meaning that they can offer an amazing range of the best perfumes – from pure luxury to everyday fun, all at a very competitive price.

So what’s my top pick for this wet January? Well I’m super impressed by Musc Noir For Her By Narciso Rodriguez.

I could subject you to my description of this beautiful multi-layered scent, but I’ll spare you, as Perfume Direct’s experts have created their own, which is eminently more useful. They tell us that it’s floral and woody; a bold, creative fragrance with hints of mystery and intrigue; addictive with a dark and seductive essence. It’s a classic signature scent with top notes of plum, middle notes of musk and heliotrope, and suede base notes, enhanced by white cedar and rose. I really can’t improve on this description.

I particularly love the gift set, consisting of 50ml Eau de Parfum, 50ml Shower Gel and 50ml Body Lotion at just £65.99.

Or check out its sister, Musc Noir Rose By Narciso Rodriguez at £67.99for 50 ml EDP which is one of the new rose fragrances (see below), so popular on the catwalk this year.

By Dr K Thompson, author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q

http://faitobooks.co.uk

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.

My Heart is in Venice by Helga Jensen Book Review

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I love Helga Jensen’s books. They are the perfect mixture of exotic destinations and romance. Her character’s are always unique and different. My Heart is in Venice is set in Wales and Venice. It’s lovely to see a book set in Wales.

The characters are also older which is refreshing.
Helga has a way of writing highly original and fun characters. I loved Libby and was rooting for her. If you want a great midlife second chance romance novel then this is it.

I highly recommend this entertaining and enchanting novel. It has wonderful, unique destination in Wales and Venice, along with wonderful characters and a great plot. I loved this escapist novel. Grab a copy now.

Venice was where it all began… Libby and Will spent a glorious honeymoon in this magical city. They didn’t have much money, but they had a whole lot of love and a bright future ahead of them. And Venice was where it all went wrong… Two kids and twenty-five years later, they are struggling with money problems but somehow Will manages to fulfil his promise to Libby to take her back to Venice for their anniversary. This time, they are doing it in style and a masked ball awaits. But among the beautiful buildings and romantic canals, Libby learns that her husband has a secret that breaks her heart. The trust is broken and the marriage is over. But there are decades of love and two grown sons between them. Can they ever find their way back to each other or have they missed their chance forever?

52 Weeks of Wellbeing – go from frazzled to fulfilled

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January is always a bit meh. We’re supposed to reinvent ourselves but it’s cold and dark. We need all of the help we can get. 52 weeks of wellbeing is a fantastic book written by an author who is smart, original and full of fantastic advice. 
The authors personality is shot through with an incredible amount of research. This book is so inspirational and I will be dipping in and out of it for the rest of the week. Brilliant. 

52 Weeks of Wellbeing to Transform Your Life - from ‘Kintsugi’ to embrace your flaws to ‘Cold Therapy’ to boost stress tolerance & ‘Timebox’ to handle email overload

A simple wellbeing technique for every week of 2024 – to go from frazzled to fulfilled

WHY THIS BOOK MATTERS

Three billion people are miserable at work according to Gallup. And, unsurprisingly, anger, stress, worry and sadness hit record highs in 2021 and have been rising for 10 years
The book is packed with 52 simple, practical, accessible habits, techniques and tips – one for every week of 2024 – that ANYONE can do to cultivate a happier life and make you your priority
After a rugby accident left him unable to walk for a year and suffering from depression, suicidal thoughts and bulimia, author Ryan Hopkins embarked on a mental health mission
Now Chief Impact Officer at pioneering mental health platform JAAQ and Deloitte’s former Future of Wellbeing Lead, he delivers talks everywhere from TEDx to Microsoft to Jimmy Choo on mental health and regularly writes for everyone from the FT to LinkedIn
Ryan Hopkins is on a mission. He wants to reach 1 billion people to transform our wellbeing – from the toilet. That probably needs some explaining…

Many of us prioritise work over wellbeing. A third of UK workers eat ‘aldesko’ (aka at our desks) and 67% feel pressured to be available at all hours of the day. Global unhappiness has risen by over a third since 2010. Something needs to change.

Back to the toilet then. After a rugby accident left Ryan wheelchair-bound for a year and suffering from severe depression, anxiety, bulimia and suicidal thoughts for nearly a decade afterwards, he began building doable wellbeing habits and techniques into his everyday life. They’re so simple ANYONE can do them, even on the loo, but, combined, they have the power to radically improve our wellbeing. To prove it, he created his now viral ‘Toilet Break Wellbeing’ video series – which has reached tens of millions of people and counting.

In his new book 52 Weeks of Wellbeing: A No-Nonsense Guide to a Fulfilling Work Life, Ryan reveals a simple wellbeing technique for every week of the year to help transform us from anxious and frazzled to happy and fulfilled. Combining the latest academic thinking with his powerful experience of recovering from rock bottom, the book is a highly practical, accessible, funny and engaging guide to improving our mental health.

To make real, lasting change, wellbeing and self-care should be something we proactively make space for every day, not only addressed reactively in response to a problem. Packed with small, smart wellbeing habits you can easily fit into even the craziest of busy days, they accumulate to make drastic change. They include:

Breathwork for stressful times
The Japanese art of ‘Kintsugi’ to embrace your flaws
‘Cold Therapy’ to boost stress tolerance
‘Timebox’ to handle email overload
Cosmic insignificance theory to combat anxiety
Bringing back the Great British Tea Break to kickstart productivity
Wellbeing is a lifelong pursuit – some weeks it’s easier to master than others – but armed with the knowledge, tips and tricks from this book, Ryan hopes to provide 1 billion people with the tools needed to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life at work and at home.

“The ultimate guide to a better you. A fascinating and inspiring read.” Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer for Google X

“Ryan combines his trademark sense of humour with a pragmatic view of well-being, making this an engaging and informative read.” – Dr. Clare Fernandes, Chief Medical Officer, BBC

“A book of bite-sized bits of brilliance.” Isabel Berwick, Financial Times

52 Weeks of Wellbeing by Ryan Hopkins is published by Kogan Page, 3rd January 2024, RRP £12.99

Three Easy Mocktails from Blake Lively’s Betty Buzz Soft Drinks 

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One of the best things about being an editor is the opportunity to try lots of exciting things. I love Blake Lively’s films and was excited to try her range of drinks, Betty Buzz.
The range is gorgeous. They look great and taste even better. They are fresh and original. Almost like they have been home made. I will definitely try them again in the future. Here are three mocktail ideas from Betty Buzz.

Betty Buzz is made with fresh ingredients, free from artificial preservatives, sweeteners, colours and flavours, resulting in the perfect mixers for easy at home mocktails. 

Betty Buzz Ginger Apple 

1/2 bottle Betty Buzz Ginger Beer | 50ml Cloudy Apple Juice | 15ml Lemon Juice | Cinnamon Syrup | Apple Fan 

Combine ice, apple juice, lemon juice and cinnamon syrup. Shake well and strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice. Pour Betty Buzz Ginger Beer over top. Garnish with an apple fan

Betty Buzz Ginger Beer – Clean, fresh ginger taste with the perfect balance of spice and bubbles. 
RRP:  From £2.50 per 266 ml bottle 
Available from: Whole Foods Market

Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit Spicy Sparkling Faux – Loma

1/2 Bottle Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit | 15ml Lime Juice | 3-4 Jalapeño Slice 

Salt the rim of the glass (if desired). Fill shaker with ice, jalapeños and lime juice. Close and shake generously to combine. Pour into a lowball glass over ice and top with Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit. Garnish with jalapeño slices

Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit – made with 24% real Pink Grapefruit juice this delivers a tangy, lightly sweet and fresh citrus hit. 
RRP: From £1.80 per 150ml can and £2.50 per 266ml bottle and as a multiple pack from Amazon  24 x 150 ml cans from £29.99

Betty Buzz Lemon Lime Flirty Shirley 

1/2 Bottle Betty Buzz Sparkling Lemon Lime | Splash of Grenadine | Cherry 

Add ice to a highball glass and add a splash of Grenadine. Pour Betty Buzz Sparkling Lemon Lime over top. Stir together gently. Garnish with cherryBetty Buzz Sparkling Lemon Lime – Refreshing with deliciously authentic flavours
RRP: From £1.80 per 150ml can and £2.50 per 266 ml bottle and as a multiple pack from Amazon  24 x 150 ml cans from £29.99

Michael Rowan didn’t need to be psychic to know that he would enjoy Verdi’s Nabucco, the latest brilliant offering from The Metropolitan Opera, live from New York. https://metliveinhd.co.uk/

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I was intrigued to see how such an epic opera would translate from the stage to the screen and wondered if anything might be lost in the process. I needn’t have worried.

Almost halfway through the current season and The Met are providing a thrilling programme. Verdi’s Nabucco is the story of the Hebrews enslaved by the people who worship Baal and the destruction of the Temple.

As ever there is a love story at its heart, the trials and tribulations of the father and daughter Nabucco (more commonly known as Nebuchadnezzar) relationship, and of course the evil ruler, Abigaille who, due to her jealously, wishes to break up the young lovers by any means, and tries to turn father against daughter.

In many ways the story is the least of it, it is the singing that is sublime and with a full orchestra and large choir it would be possible to close one’s ears and simply let the music wash over you.

However, for those with their eyes open there was much to enjoy. The sets are stunning and used to great effect. The setting fire to the Temple was worth the price of the ticket alone.

Because this was beamed live into cinemas across the world everyone on stage had to continue acting regardless of if they were the focus of the action or not, which greatly added to the spectacle, especially in close up.

I had forgotten just how much choral work was a part of this opera and of course the big song from this opera is the goose bump inducing, ‘Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves,’ sung so plaintively and with such feeling that I cannot be the only one to have a tear in my eye.

The cinema experience is not the same as being in the theatre (in this case at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York) but as that was not available to me, it is very much the next best thing.

In terms of cost and ease of access it is very much the best thing, and in addition we are treated to a variety of interviews with the stars, behind whom we see stagehands and singers rushing around to ensure that the next act begins on time. This is something that you wouldn’t see if you were at The Met.

There are still some gems left in this season, so my advice would be to find the cinemas near you who are showing the Live From the Met Program and treat yourself to some top quality opera.

Images courtesy of The Metropolitan Opera

https://metliveinhd.co.uk/

Carmen (27th January)

La Forza del Destino (9th March)

Roméo et Juliette (23rd March)

La Rondine (20th April)

Madama Butterfly (11th May)

Mellow Patch Company Rejuvenating Skincare Duo

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Rejuvenate Skincare Duo

Unveil the Power of Radiance and Rejuvenation.

Imagine a skincare routine that’s more than just a routine. It’s a transformative journey to radiant, youthful skin that defies time. Meet our Rejuvenate Patch and Rejuvenating Facial Serum, the dynamic duo that’s about to rewrite the rules of beauty.

Rejuvenate Patch: The Daily Boost Your Skin Craves

Key Ingredients in the Patch: GHK-CU, Pomegranate Extract, Ginseng, Green Tea Extract, and Blackberry Extract

Our Rejuvenate Patch is your daily amount of skin renewal. Crafted with an array of nature’s finest ingredients, each patch delivers a consistent supply of rejuvenating goodness to your skin. Here’s the magic behind it:

  • GHK-CU: Renowned for its remarkable anti-aging properties, GHK-CU enhances skin firmness, improves texture, and reduces signs of aging.
  • Pomegranate Extract: Bursting with antioxidants, it shields your skin from free radicals and imparts a brighter, more radiant complexion.
  • Ginseng: This natural energiser enhances radiance and vitality, giving you that refreshed look you crave.
  • Green Tea Extract: A potent antioxidant, green tea extract protects your skin from environmental damage while potentially reducing inflammation.
  • Blackberry Extract: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it nourishes and revitalizes your skin from within.

Daily Ritual: Simply apply one Rejuvenate Patch a day and let it work its magic for 24 hours, ensuring your skin receives a continuous infusion of rejuvenating goodness.

Rejuvenating Facial Serum: The Elixir of Youth

Key Ingredients in the Serum: Hyaluronic Acid, Blue Tansy, Yuzu Oil, Argan Oil, Avocado Oil, and Cannibatol

Our Rejuvenating Facial Serum is your ticket to radiant, youthful skin. A powerhouse of rejuvenating ingredients, it’s your daily invitation to indulge in the ultimate skincare experience:

  • Hyaluronic Acid: The foundation of beautiful skin, it keeps you plump, smooth, and beautifully moisturised.
  • Blue Tansy: Beyond skincare, it calms your senses and eases your mind, contributing to a serene, balanced complexion.
  • Yuzu Oil: Brightening and toning, it adds a refreshing touch to your routine for a radiant, youthful look.
  • Argan Oil: Rich in nourishing nutrients, it offers protection and soothing care with a touch of luxury.
  • Avocado Oil: A multitasker that fights inflammation, acts as an antioxidant, and promotes collagen production.
  • Cannibatol: Our secret ingredient adds a unique touch to the serum’s formulation, contributing to a truly transformative skincare experience.

Day and Night Indulgence: Use the Rejuvenating Facial Serum both morning and night to unlock the ultimate pampering session for your skin.

The Dynamic Duo: Unleash the Magic

Individually, the Rejuvenate Patch and Rejuvenating Facial Serum are extraordinary. But together, they create a synergy that redefines beauty. The patch ensures a continuous supply of active ingredients, while the serum complements by hydrating, nourishing, and soothing your skin. This dynamic duo revitalises your skin from the inside out, leaving you with a radiant, youthful complexion that exudes confidence.

Elevate your skincare game and embrace the beauty of rejuvenation. It’s time to unveil your radiant, youthful skin with our Rejuvenate Patch and Rejuvenating Facial Serum.

The East Coast Premiere of Sharon Stone’s Paintings

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The exhibition “Sharon Stone: Welcome to My Garden” extended one more month until January 15th
 
The C. Parker Gallery in Greenwich, Connecticut presents the East Coast premiere of Sharon Stone’s paintings. The exhibition Sharon Stone: Welcome To My Garden is extended one more month until January 15. 
Her art is praised by collectors and art world luminaries, including Jerry Saltz (the Senior Art Critic for New York Magazine and winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism). 
The gallery show features 19 paintings by Stone, and is the first time her artworks are exhibited outside of Los Angeles. 
“I created these works to understand the essence of pure creativity that comes from heartfelt truth, to let go of the noise, the judgements, and the pollution of our societal pulls,” says Sharon Stone. 
Stone is internationally recognized as a global cultural leader, her many honors include: the Women Making History Award from the National Women’s History Museum; the Einstein Spirit of Achievement Award; the Nobel Peace Summit Award Laureate; the Golden Globe Award; a Prime-time Emmy Award; an Academy Award Nomination; she was named a Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters in France; the 2023 Courage Award; the Harvard Humanitarian Award; and the Human Rights Campaign Humanitarian Award, among her many accolades. Stone is being honored as the Global Citizen of the Year at the 2023 United Nations UNCA Awards on December 15.
“We are honored to present the highly anticipated East Coast debut of Sharon Stone’s powerful art, for our tenth anniversary season,” says Tiffany Benincasa, the owner and curator of the C. Parker Gallery. 
“This new exhibition offers a never-before-seen panorama into Sharon Stone’s creative prowess. The artist invites viewers on a journey through the vibrant landscapes of her imagination, reflecting her inner world. A testament to Stone’s profound talents,” adds Benincasa. 
Sharon Stone’s immense talents and acute powers of observation blossomed onto the painted medium. Her ability to observe and interpret human behavior, and her capacity to turn human frailties into sources of strength, shine through in ways that are combative, conquering, and victorious. 
Her connection to nature is always visually present. “Color becomes a wavelength for me,” says Stone. “Being a colorist moves the directions of my paintings. Color speaks to me.”
Stone has been painting her entire life. In her early years, her Aunt Vonne had a Master’s degree in painting and would create murals across the walls of the home where she lived as a child. 
She studied painting in college, and her artmaking became her laser-focus during the pandemic when she entered a new creative portal. 
This period of planetary crisis transported Stone to open up new artistic channels, transferring her lifelong creative instincts onto the canvas. Since then, she paints every day, four to 17 hours per day. 

A Round Up of Great 2023 Books

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My Murder Katie Williams

I adored this smart speculative thriller. It’s original and lots of fun. This is in development by Archewell, Prince Harry and Meghan’s production company. This brilliant book is a about a woman who is murdered, brought back to life as a clone, and then solves her own murder. A must read.

The Returned Amanda Cassidy

This book had me completely hooked. It is about a woman who is told her son died in a fire, only for her son to seemingly come back to life decades later. A detective is called back to her hometown and the memories she left behind. It was smart and full of stunning prose. Amanda Cassidy is a writer to watch. I rarely reread a book but The Returned has earned a place on my book shelf. Cassidy is a stunning voice in Irish crime fiction. This book is disturbing and twisty. Leaving me hooked from the first page.

The Miraculous Sweetmakers: The Frost Fair Natasha Hastings

This dazzling historical fantasy novel sweeps you up to a beautiful world. Natasha Hastings is a stunning writer. This middle grade novel is heartwarming and perfectly written. My children aren’t quite old enough for it yet, but I loved it. I can’t wait for the follow up next year.

It’s winter, 1683, and the Great Frost has swept into London. By day, thirteen-year-old Thomasina and her friend Anne peddle sweets on the frozen river, hearing rumors of the magical Frost Fair that awakens there at night. They say if you can find it, Father Winter himself will grant any wish you have. And Thomasina has an impossible wish: the return of her twin brother, whose death left her family fractured.

Unfortunately Yours Tessa Bailey

I love Tessa Bailey and these two characters from Secretly Yours were my favourite and I could not wait for the sequel. I was not disappointed. This enemies-to-lovers story fizzles with chemistry and racy sex scenes. It is fun and heartfelt as Natalie and August find their way to each other.

The Last List of Mabel Beaumont Laura Pearson

This book about an eighty-something woman who’s husband dies and then she decides to tick of his last list. It says Find D. Mabel decides to find their old friend Dot. What follows is a heartwarming story with great characters. Fantastic.

Nineteen Steps Millie Bobby Brown

I loved this historical fiction novel from the star of stranger things. While there was some controversy around the ghostwriting, it is a fantastic and immersive novel based on Millie’s grandmother’s story. I loved the ending.

The American Boyfriend Ivy Ngeow

The American Boyfriend has all of the hallmarks of a great thriller. Fantastic characters, a great location (Florida) and a plot that keeps you guessing. This pacy book is full of great moments. I loved the ending. Just brilliant.

The Shallows Holly Craig

The Shallows was definitely one of my favourite books of 2023. I could not put it down. Everything from the plot to the characters is pitch perfect. It’s a brave and wild ride.

Emma and Ariella, neighbours in one of Sydney’s most exclusive suburbs, appear to have it all—perfect homes, perfect husbands, perfect lives. But they both know dark secrets lurk beneath the surface and shallow waters can’t hide Ariella’s. Now she has been found murdered.