SHOUT OUT TO M&S!

Shout out to M&S! While their online shopping is temporarily on hold due to the cyber attack back in April, their local stores are still bursting with fabulous fashion finds!

I, Annabel, had a lovely outing with my dear friend Charlie (aka Back Packing Granny)! (Grace sadly couldn’t be with us as she is very busy with the last week of an art foundation course).

Anyway Charlie and I explored the latest styles and added some fresh separates to our wardrobes. It’s always better to shop with a friend who gives honest feedback!


We spotted a must-have denim skirt just as we were leaving – definitely planning another trip soon! A huge thank you to the amazing team at Marks and Spencer in Camberley (The Meadows) for their incredible service! 🙌💚

P.S. this is not a paid promotion
PPS the navy jumper and slip that Charlie is wearing with the floral skirt is her own as is her white skirt. And my cream jeans are last year from M&S. my straw bag is from Henriella Spencer from many seasons ago.

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    SUMMER ROSES

    When Grace and I ran the website ‘Annabel & Grace’ we did many photoshoots, promoting brands we loved, in my garden. Grace would style us and I would find a spot in the garden to show off the clothes. 25 years ago this garden was wild having once been an apple orchard. Now I love the fact it is so English, filled with fragrant roses amongst many other plants.


    The picture of the peach coloured rose over the picket fence & gate was given to me by Grace for my 60th birthday and is my absolute favourite. When husband and I wake up it is the first thing we see when we open our bedroom curtains.


    Gardens provide so many happy memories and so much daily joy. They are worth all the hard work creating and maintaining them.


    P.S. Pic of the swan is included as she has had 9 cygnets and was swimming just by our house this morning!

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    TWO BRILLIANT BEACH READS

    Book 1: “Consider Yourself Kissed” by Jessica Stanley

    Dive into a love story wrapped in a whirlwind of political chaos—think Boris Johnson, Brexit, and Covid! This charming tale follows a young couple navigating life’s hurdles with an ensemble of vivid characters that will steal your heart. A delightful blend of social comedy and political satire, it’s the must-read for your sunny days ahead! (P.S. this book was recommended by indiaknight on Substack. I love her posts with many for fabulous recommendations like “Little Presents for Friends”)

    Available at Amazon in paperback, hardback and Kindle versions

    Book 2: “Seating Arrangements” by Maggie Shipstead

    Two families collide (or do they?) at a wedding in picturesque New England! This quick-witted read introduces you to a cast of perfectly imperfect characters that will feel all too familiar: the heavy-drinking aunt, the heartbroken sister, the pregnant bride, and the groom with his boisterous brothers – plus, the father going through a mid-life crisis and the ever-patient mother of the bride keeping it all together! 💪💖 A hilarious and heartwarming portrayal of family dynamics, it will keep you chuckling through the pages!

    Buy at Amazon here

    📖 What’s on your summer reading list? Let me know in the comments!

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    CHEAT’S LOBSTER SPAGHETTI

    Hi. Grace here. I love cooking food from scratch – not only healthier (with less salt and sugar than pre-prepared dishes) but also tastier. Plus, you can add any ingredients that you like to personalise the recipe to you and your family’s particular tastes. But I don’t want to be slaving over a hot oven! So, this Cheat’s Lobster Spaghetti recipe uses tinned soup – yes, tinned soup. The only tinned soup I would wholeheartedly recommend mind you. No-one is more surprised than me that it tastes as good as it does. I know I’m blowing my own trumpet here but this quick and easy recipe is one I think you’ll want to make again and again.

    Annabel gave me some peanut rayu – a relish that I’d never seen before. Definitely once seen never forgotten – am now ladling spoonfuls onto anything remotely Asian inspired because I love it’s crunchy spiciness.

    CHEAT'S LOBSTER SPAGHETTI
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    CHEAT’S LOBSTER SPAGHETTI

    Recipe by Grace

    A super quick lunch or supper that may not take much time but is packed full of the taste of the sea. If you can’t get samphire, which I couldn’t (shame, I really love the stuff!) use rocket instead. I am definitely not a fan of tinned soup but Baxters Lobster Bisque is exceptional and certainly saves a huge amount of faffing around making your own.

    Ingredients

    • 150g spaghetti

    • 8 shell on raw prawns (as large as you can find)

    • Half finely chopped red chilli.

    • Grated zest of an unwaxed lemon

    • Tin of Baxters Lobster soup

    • Quarter of cucumber

    • 2 spring onions

    • Peanut rayu

    Directions

    • Decant the soup into a large saucepan and pop in the chilli and your raw prawns, shell and all. Heat gently until the prawns are cooked through.
    • Meanwhile, finely chop the spring onions and cucumber and set aside.
    • Put the spaghetti into another saucepan and pour over boiling water and cook as per packet instructions (preferably al dente).
    • Drain the pasta and put into two warmed bowls. Add four prawns and half the lobster soup to each portion. Top with the fresh cucumber, spring onions, a sprinkling of lemon zest and a good dollop of rayu. If you have any coriander or similar handy, pop some on top.

    Notes

    • Next time I’m going to add a good handful of samphire to the soup.

    More tried and tasted recipes can be found here

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    THREE (REALLY) USEFUL SELF CARE PRODUCTS

    We love sharing good ideas and so here are three really useful self care products that I use every day that represent excellent value and which I really recommend.

    Cetraben dermatological cream £13.49 Perfect for very dry and/or irritated skin. I know E45 is popular too but this pump action container’s contents have worked wonders for my post-radiotherapy rashes and those days when you can’t wait to rip off your bra because the band is a little tight and reddens the skin under your boobs.

    Gua Sha jade tool £9.95

    Emery boards – 12 for £3.99. The best I have ever used and brilliant value. They stay rigid ie don’t bend/snap when you use them.

    All available at Amazon – with free delivery if you are a Prime member.

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    LOVE READING? COME AND MEET SOME AMAZING AUTHORS

    If you love reading we’re sure you’ll agree that it’s fascinating to hear authors speaking about their work. Come and meet some inspiring writers in the elegant yet informal surroundings of Kent House in Knightsbridge.


    Wed 9 April JULIAN BAGGINI     This popular philospher will be talking about his essential guide to food and nutrition, which is entitled How the World Eats.


    Wed 7 May TOM HOLLAND – The Rest is History is the world’s most popular history podcast. Come and meet the co-presenter and co-author of the books that accompany this series.

    Wed 11 June ANNE SEBBA Internationally acclaimed author, Anne has drawn on meticulous research to tell the full and astonishing story ofThe Women’s Orchestra of Auschwitz.  


    Thurs 3 July REVEREND RICHARD COLES The much loved cleric, author and broadcaster joins us to talk about his ‘hot-off-the-press’ murder mystery – A Death on Location – and much besides.

    Tickets £25 including a complimentary flute of Roebuck vintage fizz.

    Use promo code GRACE2025 at the Kent House checkout to obtain 20% discount.

    For more information on each evening and to book your tickets, visit the Kent House Series’ website

    The Kent House Series is a not for profit organisation.

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    Benefits of being older

    Grace is doing an art project and would like to make it a very positive piece about older women. She particularly wants to hear from you with your thoughts on the benefits of being older and possibly wiser!

    We older women have so much to be happy about. For example, we can say exactly what we think more easily, have years of valuable experience to pass on to our children, and can dress exactly as we please (no more twinset and pearls for us anymore!).

    Here are some of the comments we have had on Instagram:

    “Having the confidence to pursue what I love doing (in my case playing music), and not feeling that I have to keep up with other people and what they do. To have the confidence to truly be myself! ” Mary

    “For me, it’s feeling that I can say ‘no’ much more easily and not feel bad about it! And also I love to pass on advice and memories to my wonderful Grandchildren and to take advice from them too. Every day is a school day! ” Maria

    “For me it’s having more time to do the things I want to do. And no periods!” MummyRidle

    “I love that as an older woman I can be a bit more outrageous. I love wearing much bolder colours than ever I did when I was a rather drab youngster! Also I love being able to use my brain for things I really enjoy. Like you with your art course, I have enlisted on a poetry course which I love.” Fiona

    “For me, the excitement of my first grandchild due in June, more time to do things, although seem to be busier than ever! And since retiring, loving being able to potter in the mornings rather than rushing around like a headless chicken before going off to work!” Mandy

    Grace would love to hear your thoughts on what you think is positive about being an older women. Please leave them below in the Comments. Thank you so much.

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    MOTHER’S DAY GIFTING INSPIRATION

    As Mother’s Day approaches, the search for the perfect gift can often feel overwhelming, but Marks and Spencer is here to simplify the experience with a delightful array of thoughtful presents.

    With a focus on quality and creativity, M&S offers everything from luxurious pampering sets and exquisite floral arrangements to delicious gourmet treats that are sure to make any mother/stepmother/grandmother/mother-in-law feel cherished. Whether you’re looking to spoil her with something special or add a personal touch to your gift, Marks and Spencer has curated a selection that celebrates the remarkable women in our lives, ensuring this Mother’s Day on Sunday 30 March is truly unforgettable.

    Let’s start with flowers. They are the quintessential gift for Mother’s Day, especially as we kick off Spring! It’s the season when gardens burst into colour after the long, dark winter, welcoming blooms back into our lives. Check out the newly launched, ‘Flower Market’ instore for a dazzling array of colourful arrangements and individual plants – perfect to brighten her day!

    As Grace and I left the flower department we wandered through the M&S bakery – however what I was looking for is only available online. It is The Afternoon Tea Gift Box (£35) which has everything needed for a delicious tea for at least 4 people. It contains a fluffy Victoria Sponge, English Breakfast teabags, indulgent Millionaires shortbread and melt-in-the-mouth Viennese Swirls. Trust me, any mum would absolutely adore receiving this sweet surprise delivered right to them!

    Whether you’re ready to shower her with something extra special or add a personal touch that says, “I really care,” M&S has curated a fabulous fashion collection that celebrates and flatters the incredible women in our lives. We heard that M&S is the most popular choice for older women looking for well made, fashion forward clothes. We couldn’t agree more – here are just some of the fabulous pieces available, any of which will ensure that this Mother’s Day is nothing short of magical for the lucky recipient!

    Other ideas for Mother’s Day comes from the M&S beauty department. Why not treat her to some pampering gifts that they might not buy for themselves. They deserve to be spoiled so indulge her senses with a fabulous beauty or wellness gift set from the M&S beauty department, which is bursting with beloved brands like Cowshed, Neom and Neal’s Yard Remedies.

    If you are not sure which products to pick then M&S has made it easy with their thoughtfully curated gift boxes. Check out the ‘Made for an Icon‘ and ‘Time to Unwind‘ – each priced at just £30 and packed to the brim with luxurious goodies that, if purchased individually, would set you back over £100. Whether she needs to wind down after a long day or simply wants to feel glamorous, these wellness boxes are the perfect way to show her just how much she is cherished.

    One of our personal favourite brands is Apothecary. You will find their hand wash, candles and room fragrances in both of our houses. You cannot beat them for value for money and every single fragrance whether lavender, geranium and eucalyptus will enhance the atmosphere in whichever room they are used. We particularly recommend the Sleep Pillow Mist (£7.50), Warmth eau de parfum (£12), the Revitalise diffuser (£17) and Restore hand wash and lotion duo £12) but we’re sure any of this hugely popular reange will be welcomed by the lucky recipient.

    Finally we headed upstairs to the Homewares department for some more gift inspiration. We did not have to go far as there was a large display of fabulous vases next to the (realistic) faux flowers. Better still, many of them are currently reduced in price, so brilliant bargains, We particularly were taken with the gorgeous little pink striped jug vase online that has a reduced sale price of £11 (down from £19.50); Kelly Hoppen’s Bobble Edge £16 (was £29.50) and the elegant ridged ceramic vase £19 (reduced from £35).

    That just leaves us to wrap up our recommendations with a reminder that M&S have an excellent range of cards (and gift cards) – Grace nabbed one for her Mum and we adored this 3D French scene design £7.

    Grace is wearing the cotton rich Stormwear Longline mac £85 and the Air-Yarn Striped V Neck jumper £22.50, both of which she chose because they are both so stylish, useful and practical. The mac comes up quite large by the way if you think your Mum would love one of these as a gift.

    One last thought, how about an M&S gift voucher – I love being given an E-Gift card as a present as it’s always a treat choosing something for yourself when you’re next instore… from £10.

    So, hopefully this has given you some inspiration for Mother’s Day and with a little help from M&S you can make this an unforgettable day for the mother in your life! Happy gifting!

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    THE COVENANT OF WATER – BOOK REVIEW

    I loved Abraham Verghese’s book, ‘Cutting for Stone’ so when someone recommended his latest novel, ‘The Covenant of Water’, I knew I was going to be enthralled again. 

    Abraham Verghese’s ‘The Covenant of Water’ is a monumental work (700+ pages) that weaves together themes of love, loss, and the intricate tapestry of human connections against the backdrop of Kerala, India. This sweeping novel spans several decades, immersing readers in the lives of the members of a family grappling with the weight of tradition and the pull of modernity.

    From the very first pages, Verghese’s lyrical prose captivates and transports readers to the lush landscapes of Kerala, where the water is not just a setting but a vital character in its own right. The narrative flows like the rivers it describes, winding through time and generations, revealing the complexities of familial bonds and the indelible marks left by history.

    At its core, ‘The Covenant of Water’ delves into the concept of inheritance – not just of physical traits, but of emotional legacies, cultural expectations, and the burdens of choice. The characters are richly drawn, each embodying the struggles and triumphs that come with navigating their identities within a deeply rooted society. Verghese masterfully balances the personal with the universal, exploring how individual lives intersect with larger social and historical currents.

    The novel’s exploration of the theme of water is profound. It serves as a metaphor for life itself – fluid, unpredictable, and at times tumultuous. Verghese uses water to symbolise both the nurturing aspects of existence and the destructive forces that can arise from it. This duality is reflected in the characters’ journeys, as they confront their destinies while grappling with the inevitability of change.

    Moreover, Verghese’s attention to detail is remarkable. His background as a physician shines through in his vivid descriptions of the human body and the medical practices of the time, grounding the narrative in a sense of realism that enhances the emotional weight of the story. The intricate interplay between personal health and familial duty adds another layer of complexity to the characters’ lives, making their struggles feel intimate and relatable.

    ‘The Covenant of Water’ is not just a novel, it’s an experience. It invites readers to reflect on their own legacies and the waters that shape their identities. Verghese’s storytelling is both poignant and powerful, leaving an indelible mark long after the last page is turned. This is a book that will resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with the ties that bind us to our past while forging a path toward the future.

    In conclusion, ‘The Covenant of Water’ is a stunning achievement that showcases Verghese’s extraordinary talent as a storyteller. It is a profound meditation on the human experience, rendered with beauty and compassion. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a rich, immersive reading experience that celebrates the complexities of life and the enduring power of love and family.

    HAVE YOU READ AN OUTSTANDING BOOK LATELY? WHY NOT SHARE THE PLEASURE WITH OTHER OWW READERS BY COMMENTING BELOW!

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    Becoming a Grandmother: my hilarious journey into the unknown

    When my youngest daughter and her husband announced that they were expecting, we all erupted in a chorus of joy that could rival a boy band reunion. After all, this was to be our first grandchild, and from what I’ve gathered from friends, becoming a grandmother is like winning the lottery – except instead of cash, you get adorable giggles and the occasional nappy explosion.

    Having four children of my own, I strutted around like a parenting expert, convinced I knew everything there was to know about pregnancy, childbirth, and the mysterious ways of newborns. Oh, how naive I was! After a few chats with my daughter, it hit me like a ton of bricks: my experiences were about as relevant to her as a flip phone in the age of smartphones. I was basically taking a steam train to Paris while she was booking a first-class ticket on the Eurostar.

    Back in my day, we learned about parenting from our mothers, friends, and the occasional dusty tome that smelled like it had been written in the Stone Age. Now? My daughter is a walking encyclopedia of baby knowledge, thanks to Google, social media, and forums where mothers share tips like they’re trading fashion advice. Nothing is left to chance. If there’s a parenting hack out there, she’s got it in her back pocket, right next to the organic, gluten-free, non-GMO snacks she’ll be feeding our grandchild.

    I had to admit to her that, since my last baby was born 30 years ago, my memories were a bit hazy. My only nugget of wisdom? Do what feels right for you and the baby – preferably while ignoring any unsolicited advice from me.

    The birthing process has become a whole new ball game. Elected caesareans are as common as ordering a latte at a coffee shop. Back in my day, epidurals were like the new kids on the block, and now they’re practically a rite of passage. Birthing pools are the norm, and fathers are expected to be right there in the trenches, offering emotional support and snacks. My husband, bless his heart, was in the delivery room during my births, but you’d find him sipping tea and munching on toast, blissfully unaware of the miracle (and chaos) unfolding before him. My own father? Well, he thought attending a birth was like watching a documentary – he didn’t lay eyes on me until I was practically a toddler.

    And let’s talk about hospital stays. These days, mothers and their precious bundles are in and out of the hospital faster than I can say “nappy duty.” I came home cradled in my mother’s arms while my babies were nestled in their Moses baskets, blissfully unaware of the road ahead. Now, there are car seats that look like they belong on a spaceship. Honestly, I feel like I need to enroll in an engineering degree just to figure out how to strap a baby into one of those contraptions!

    Then there’s the whole “skin-to-skin” thing, which is now a sacred rite of passage. My son-in-law wasted no time in shedding his shirt to bond with his newborn son, while we grandparents were summoned via FaceTime to meet our grandson within minutes of his grand entrance. I can’t help but wonder if we should just install a live stream in the delivery room for the whole family – after all, who wouldn’t want to witness that chaos from the comfort of their couch?

    And let’s not even dive into the wild world of apps and gadgets that have popped up since I graced this planet with my presence. Seriously, that’s a whole other blog post waiting to happen! But here’s a little teaser for you: did you know there are now nappies with a fancy line that turns blue when your little one has done a wee? No more awkward finger probes to check the situation – thank goodness for small miracles! At this rate, I’m half-expecting a smartphone app to ping mothers with alerts like, “Congratulations! Baby just turned his/her nappy into a Damien Hirst masterpiece!” Who knew parenting would come with its own tech support?

    So here I am, preparing for the wild ride of grandparenting – a role that promises endless joy, a few surprises, and possibly a few more grey hairs. Bring on the nappy changes, the sleepless nights, and the unfiltered cuteness of my new grandchild. I have a feeling this is going to be the best adventure yet!

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    THINNING HAIR?

    If, like me, you have very fine, thinning hair, read on! I’ve discovered that almost all of my 50+ post menopausal friends are complaining of the same thing. So I thought I’d try and find out ways to combat this seemingly common problem.

    My first thought was shampoo and conditioner. I’d heard about Plantur 39 which is specially formulated for menopausal hair thinning. Phyto caffeine stimulates hair growth. I am finding it very pleasant to use – no strong fragrance, no drying out or flattening of my hair and not too expensive. I have to wash my hair almost every day because it’s all over the place when I wake up each morning, so I like the nourishing ingredients in this product. The addition of zinc and niacin boosts hair fullness and improves nutrient flow, making this an ideal choice for those struggling with menopausal hair changes.

    You can try both shampoo and conditioner for under £20 at Tesco or at Amazon.

    I am also going to try Cornish Seaweed shampoo about which there is a buzz of excitement. With 60% organic seaweed and herbs, their Super Nutrient Shampoo is designed to improve hair strength, elasticity and shine, help balance hair oils, stimulate healthy hair growth, prevent hair loss and soothe the scalp.Will report back on that once I’ve tried it.

    Tip: After you’ve washed your hair, let it dry naturally until only slightly damp, then get going with your hairdryer on medium (not full blast) heat. There are heat protectants on the market that you can use but I haven’t tried one yet so can’t recommend one in particular.

    I have also been using Color Wow XL Bombshell Volumiser. You pump some foam into your palms and run it through your hair. Am pleased to report that it is weightless and non-sticky. £11 at Amazon. I haven’t found it gives me a huge amount of extra volume like promoted on Instagram but my hair does feel somewhat fuller when I use it.

    Another thing I do to add volume to my hair is use sticky rollers once I’ve dried my hair. I pop them in while I’m doing my make up, then remove them and give my hair a spray with good old Elnett Extra Strong Hold.

    Last but not least my lovely hairdresser, Emma at Lustig & Webb, blunt cuts the base but makes sure the upper section is graduated and layered. I have my hair cut as short as I dare which gets rid of the dryer ends and gives it more body. Blonde highlights have been my thing since I was a teenager and I always find my hair feels fuller after I’ve had some put in.

    Have you got any tips to share with the Our Weekly Whisper readers? Please do leave them in the Comment section below this post if you do. Thank you.

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    NEW GRANDSON (AND A WRINKLE FIX!)

    Annabel is over the moon because she has a grandson! This is her first time as a granny and she couldn’t be more delighted. So huge congratulations on the arrival of Kittow (Cornish for Christopher).

    Although she’s now busy helping her daughter, she did have time to mention one product she’s recently discovered. Not sure about you, but I’ve been inundated with Il Makiage ads on Instagram for some months now and I must admit my interest has been piqued but I’ve never actually bought anything as yet. So I was on the phone to Annabel in an instant to find out what she thought about the product she had been given by a friend – Power Redo Wrinkle Fix.

    It’s an anti-ageing blur and smooth wrinkle filler. “It really does work. Brilliant for a special occasion.”

    Anyhow, if you’d like to find out more about Power Redo Wrinkle Fix you can check it out here.

    This is not an ad or paid promotion.

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