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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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ONE IDEA FOR A FRESH START TO 2025

Just had a marvellous cosy day at home. The weather outside was frightful and so I decided to have a clear out. One way for a fresh start to 2025 is to get rid of everything that is no longer useful in your life – could be clothes, paperwork or a man!! Seriously, am not suggesting you dump your partner, but I do think that clearing out a cupboard or two can be hugely cathartic.

I decided to tackle my study and the mountain of useless paperwork I have collated over the years. After all, almost everything is online now, usually emailed instead of using snail mail. So, ably assisted by my new Amazon paper shredder, it didn’t take that long but now I know exactly where everything I do need is located. Just love the fact that you can order something online in the afternoon and, with Amazon Prime, the package appears on your doorstep the next day.

Anyhow, next week I’m tackling my shoe mountain!

Happy fresh starts…. may 2025 be everything you wish for.

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LEARNING A LESSON

Grace has been learning a lesson. Like so many other older women we talk to, she found herself feeling as if she had something missing in her life. Do you feel you have been cast adrift? This seems especially relevant when our children have (finally!) flown the nest. Suddenly we have more time on our hands and this can lead to us feeling ‘rudderless’.

Far from being a negative, this time of life can be absolutely uplifting. Whether you choose to revisit a skill that you never had time to develop, or learn a language (rated highly for stimulating your brain), or go back to college as a mature student as Grace has done.

Check out what Grace has to say on our Instagram…

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YOUR STYLE GUIDE TO DRESSING UP

Before you know it the lead up to 25 December will have started. Are you ready to party? Well, Annabel and I have been to see the new fashion trends at M&S to edit the very best that our favourite store has for us older women. You are spoilt for choice with festive sparkle jackets, trousers, sumptuous velvets, classic black outfits with a glittery twist and some elegant dresses. In short, there’s something for everyone. So, without further delay, here’s your style guide to dressing up for Christmas:

Elegant dresses

Animal print is back with a vengeance and I found this midaxi tie neck waisted dress with its elbow length sleeves very comfortable and forgiving of my lumps and bumps. £39.50. We also oohed and aahed over this vibrant yellow sequinned Midaxi Shift dress from Autograph £99. And there’s two other dresses we’d like to highlight to you…

Velvet Round Neck Midaxi Dress £45 in Teal and this timeless Velvet Lace Midi Column Dress £99 – either will guarantee that you look chic.

Any of the above dresses will look wonderful with the comfortably flat yet feminine Bow Block Heel slingbacks in Black or animal print £35.

Co-ordinates

If you’re unsure of what to wear, think about coordinates because they have got to be the easiest kind of outfit. The styling is done for you – just add shoes and jewellery! Lots of Christmassy colours ie standout red and chic greens.

Embellished Relaxed Single Breasted Blazer £75 (available in both green and black) and matching Wide Leg Trousers £55 (in three lengths) . There’s also a matching long sleeved top £35 in petite or regular. Red is such a wonderfully festive, standout colour. I was impressed by this Collared Short Tailored Jacket £59 and matching tailored straight leg trousers £39.50.

Cosy coats

One word for the M&S winter coats – wonderful. Generously sized, stylish and essential to keep you toasty on the way to and from a night out. Particular faves are the red Single Breasted Longline Tailored Coat with Wool £89 that Annabel is wearing in this photograph and the Textured Longline Tailored Coat £79 that she is holding. Or there’s the unbelievably good to touch Faux Fur Longline Coat £79, Lavender Grey Feather and Down Longline showerproof puffer £125.

We’d also like to give a shout out to the Checked Longline Trench Coat with Wool £109 which is a classic that you’ll wear again and again. Last but not least, the very smart (and generously sized) navy Wool Blend Collarless Longline Coat £89 which in my humble opinion is an absolute must-have bargain!

Keeping it (relatively) casual

As some of us prefer to add a touch of glitz to our outfits – for example if you’re invited to a more informal occasion – there’s plenty on offer.

We were delighted to see that M&S has even given denim a festive twist. There’s a Denim Diamante Trucker Jacket £55 and Ivy High Waisted skinny jeans £32.50. Wear with some Sparkle Flat Square Toe Ballet Pumps £45 and you’ve got a fabulous relaxed party look.

Other single pieces you might find useful are the Sleeveless Sequin Top in Petite or Regular £35, the elegant High Neck Blouse £29.50 in Red or Black or the supersoft red cashmere long sleeved crew neck £89 (available in 14 colours).

Collaborations

We’re really enjoying the M&S collaborations and the standout Sienna Miller piece in our book was the wool blend double breasted blazer £125 in winter white (available with matching trousers and waistcoat). Check out the entire Sienna Miller collection here.

Dressing up for a night in

When it’s time to relax, we’d like to recommend some seriously cosy clothes to curl up on the sofa in while you watch Christmas films on TV. Teddy Fleece Dressing Gown £25 in five sizes and six colours and the one size fits all Fleece Star Print Oversized Lounge Hoodie £22 in Navy or Grey Mix. Lower the heating thermostat and open the popcorn!

We hope you’ve found the above dressing up edit useful and that you’ll be celebrating Christmas in style.

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ARIANE POOLE – MAKE UP TRICKS

If you missed a fascinating Instagram Live chat about make up hosted by Ariane Poole don’t worry! You can still pick up some brilliant tips and tricks by watching here

In this Live, Annabel and Ariane talk all things fashion & beauty.

For 20% Off until midnight 17th use Code WHISPER20 at the Ariane Poole checkout.

We used
Touch Up Illuminating Pen:
N2 & N25
Single Eyeshadow: Frozen Grape & Heather
Ultimate Eye Pencil: Mercury & Deep Amethyst
Brown Mascara
Navy Mascara
Crème Blush Sunrise

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NEW! WHAT TO WATCH

It’s that time of year when we love to hunker down in the evenings with a good boxset. And there are so many to choose from. Here are the top five Annabel thinks are what to watch:


Slow Horses – Apple TV
Apples Never Fall – BBC iPlayer
Pachinko – Apple TV
Nobody Wants This – Netflix
The Perfect Couple – Netflix
Joan – ITVx


And what next? Sweetpea on Sky Atlantic, The Hardacres on C5, Rivals (Jilly Cooper) Disney+. And next month The Day of The Jackal with Eddie Redmayne is coming to Sky Atlantic!!

TV is so good, no need to go out 🤪

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