Presidente do Senado, Rodrigo Pacheco (PSD-MG) ressaltou a importância do cuidado e zelo constantes das instituições, Poderes e sociedade com a democracia
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“Estamos vivendo tempos muito sombrios e de obscurantismo”, diz Pacheco
How & when to talk to your kids about sex – and the 5 mistakes which could scar them for life
MANY parents may shudder at the thought of having to talk to their children about the ‘birds and the bees.’
But it’s a topic that shouldn’t be missed.
Dr Pam Spurr, psychologist and parenting expert, believes it’s important for the child so they can go on to have a happy and healthy relationship.
“Many years ago, I know of a British couple who were offered a whopping £2,500 to a relevant tutor to teach their children about sex,” she says.
“They felt so nervous about it, they thought they wouldn’t do a good job.
“Unfortunately, those parents had more money than sense, because there are some simple, straightforward tips to help blushing parents navigate this.”
Here in her own words, Pam reveals the top 10 tips on how and when to talk to your kids about sex, and the mistakes you need to avoid.
Be prepared from young
Once you have children, think through various scenarios where the topic of sex might crop up.
For example, you might see dogs mating during a walk in the park with your two-year-old.
If they innocently ask what the dogs are doing, say something simple like: “They’re having cuddles.”
Keep it age appropriate
If your four-year-old asked about dogs in the park, you can say: “That’s how dogs mate so they can have puppies.”
Obviously, as your child gets older you increase the amount of information you give.
Practice makes perfect
You know the BIG questions will start coming from about age six or seven and upwards.
Practice how you’ll go through the age-appropriate basics of sex education.
Don’t assume you can leave it to their school, many teachers fall short on this topic.
If you have a partner, discuss it with them and agree with the things you’ll both say. Singing from the same hymn sheet is key.
Practice gives you the confidence not to squirm when the big questions come.
Use TV storylines
Older children will ask all sorts of things about sex and sexuality.
Use relevant storylines to help.
All these tips give your child confidence to open up to you about their natural curiosity about sex
Pam Spurr
For instance, if a teen has come out as gay in a soap opera, and your child asks about being gay, bring the storyline up.
It helps normalise the situation.
Admit you don’t know the answer
If your child asks you something you don’t know, say something like: “I’m not sure, I’ll look into that and then I’ll let you know.”
All these tips give your child the confidence to open up to you about their natural curiosity about sex.
Plus it’ll mean they come to you about other important topics like being bullied.
Talking to your kids about sex
By Jasleen Saran, qualified teacher and current Educational Lead at Books2Door
Knowing when to have ‘the talk’ with your kids is never easy. We have all been there.
It’s one of those tricky conversations that can feel uncomfortable or even awkward, given the adult nature of topics like ‘the birds and the bees.’
Starting the conversation early can help open the door to open dialogue between children and parents about topics like sexual health and pregnancy.
It allows children to feel more comfortable and less secretive as they grow. It’s all about creating a safe space.
That being said, it doesn’t mean you need to share every last gory detail immediately.
Books naturally spark children’s curiosity, making it easier to open up the conversation whilst allowing the parent to control how much you share depending on your child’s age or your family’s culture.
Reading is an invaluable tool for tackling difficult subjects – not just ‘the birds and the bees.’
If you’re looking for some inspiration to tackle the “talk”, here are a few suggestions:
- Let’s Talk About the Birds and the Bees : Starting conversations about the facts of life (From how babies are made to puberty and healthy relationships)
- The Boys’ & Girls’ Guide to Growing Up by Phil Wilkinson & Anita Naik 2 Books Collection Set – Ages 9-11 – Paperback
And the mistakes you can avoid:
Embarrassment
If you blush and stumble over your words when your child asks about the ‘birds and bees’, they’ll feel your embarrassment.
Such ‘shame’ about discussing sex is transmitted through the generations leading to feelings of awkwardness about sex.
Using nicknames for genitals
It’s crucial to appropriately name the genitals.
Making up words like ‘fou-fou’ for a girl’s vulva or ‘little man’ for a boy’s penis is very unhelpful.
This gives the message that somehow genitals are shameful and must be given other names.
Don’t ‘shush’ their questions
The quickest way to make a child feel that sex is ‘dirty’ is to shush them when they ask you something about sex.
Don’t say things like: ‘You shouldn’t ask such things.’
Don’t say: ask your father/mother
Avoiding responsibility and putting it on your partner’s shoulders will embarrass your child.
Embarrassment is bad, honesty is good!
Don’t say: when you’re older I’ll answer that
Again, this promotes shame in a child.
Instead, answer to the best of your ability with, again, what you feel is age-appropriate.
More parenting tips
By Danny Zane, Therapist and Founder at North London Therapy Practice
Oversharing
Sharing too much personal information can overwhelm children or make them feel uncomfortable.
Parents should try to find a balance between sharing and respecting their boundaries.
Waiting Until It’s ‘Too Late’
Some parents postpone talking about sex until they think their child is ready.
This can lead to some children being uninformed when they need guidance.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Choose a relaxed setting where your child feels safe.
Be approachable and allow children to ask questions without fear of judgement.
Encourage Questions
Be approachable and allow children to ask questions.
Respond honestly and accurately, ensuring that they understand they can come to you for information without embarrassment or shame.
Revisit the Conversation
This discussion about sex should not be a one-time conversation.
Normalise the subject, ensuring your child feels supported as they grow and encounter new experiences.
Threw easy fakeaway dishes for Chinese New Year – including 15 minute meal that only needs six ingredients
IT’S Chinese New Year on Wednesday January 29, and it’s the Year of the Snake.
This means a time for personal growth and a shedding of old habits, – and that means it’s time to shake things up in the kitchen, too.
Kwoklyn Wan is a real wok star in the fakeaway department, having grown up helping at his family’s Chinese takeaway (FYI, he’s the brother of fashion guru Gok Wan!) and going on to produce countless cookbooks.
His latest cookbook, Chinese Made Easy (£22, Quadrille) is out now, and is full of delicious, achievable dishes.
From classic faves like fried rice and moreish banana fritters, to steamed buns, curries and noodles, your chopsticks will be quivering in anticipation.
So, fire up the wok and get celebrating!
Braised Black Pepper Beef
Serves 2
Prep time 5 minutes, plus 20 minutes marinating
Cooking time 1 1⁄2 – 2 hours
Ingredients:
*450g-500g beef brisket, cut into 2.5cm cubes
*2tbsp vegetable oil
*1 large onion, sliced
*3 cloves garlic, crushed
*1 green pepper, sliced
*1tbsp cornflour (mixed with 2tbsp water)
For the marinade:
*1⁄2tbsp fish sauce
*1⁄2tbsp ground black pepper, plus extra for dressing
*3tbsp oyster sauce
For the sauce:
*350ml beef stock
*1tbsp light soy sauce
*1⁄2tbsp dark soy sauce
*2tbsp Chinese rice wine
*1tbsp brown sugar
Method:
1 Add all the marinade ingredients to a bowl and spend 1 minute massaging them into the beef. This will help break down some of the muscle fibres, making the beef even more tender. Leave to marinate for 20 minutes.
2 Place a heavy saucepan over a medium-high heat, add the oil and the marinated beef. Once browned on all sides, remove the beef and set aside.
3 In the same pan, add the onion and cook until browned, then add the garlic and green pepper and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4 Now add the ingredients for the sauce, de-glaze the bottom of the pan and return the browned beef to the pan. Once the sauce begins to come up to the boil, reduce the heat to very low, cover and cook for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is super tender. (If your sauce begins to evaporate during this time, add more beef stock.)
5 To finish, give the cornflour mixture a stir and slowly pour it into the sauce, stirring at the same time. Once the sauce thickens, switch off the heat. Serve on top of steamed rice with a final sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper.
Golden Egg-Glazed Rice Bowl
Serves 2
Prep time 2 minutes
Cooking time 15 minutes
Ingredients:
*5 eggs
*3tbsp vegetable oil
*200ml cola
*1⁄2tbsp light soy sauce
*1⁄2tbsp dark soy sauce
*1tbsp oyster sauce
*350-400g cooked white long-grain rice
*5 spring onions, finely chopped (greens and whites separated)
Method:
1 Crack the eggs into a bowl.
2 Place a wok over a high heat, then add the oil and, once hot, add the eggs but do not stir them, as you want whole, crispy fried eggs. Once the eggs are crispy on one side, flip them over and cook until crispy and cooked all the way through. Reduce the heat if they are cooking too quickly.
3 Remove the cooked eggs and cut them into bite-sized pieces, then place half of the chopped eggs back into the wok over a medium-high heat, along with the cola, light and dark soy and oyster sauce. Cook for 3 minutes, or until the liquid has begun to reduce by a third. 4 Now add the cooked rice and mix well, then add the spring onion whites and stir. Continue to cook until the rice is piping hot. Switch off the heat, then add the remaining cooked eggs and fold them through the rice. Transfer to serving bowls and top with the spring onion greens.
Banana Fritters
Serves 4
Prep time 10 minutes
Cooking time 10 minutes
Ingredients:
*Groundnut oil for deep-frying
*260g self-raising flour
*1⁄2tsp bicarbonate of soda
*4 bananas, peeled and halved
*130g plain flour
To serve:
*6tbsp golden syrup
*4 scoops vanilla ice cream
Method:
1 Heat enough oil in a wok or deep-sided saucepan so you can deep- fry the bananas, to 170°C.
2 Sift the self-raising flour into a large bowl, add the bicarbonate of soda, then 360ml water, and mix to form a smooth batter.
3 Lightly dust the bananas in plain flour, then dip into the batter to coat and carefully drop into the oil.
4 Deep-fry for around 6-8 minutes, until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
5 Divide between four plates, drizzle over the golden syrup and add a scoop of ice cream to serve.
How to save money on your takeaway
TAKEAWAYS taste great but they can hit you hard on your wallet. Here are some tips on how to save on your delivery:
Cashback websites– TopCashback and Quidco will pay you to order your takeaway through them. They’re paid by retailers for every click that comes to their website from the cashback site, which eventually trickles down to you. So you’ll get cashback on orders placed through them.
Discount codes – Check sites like VoucherCodes for any discount codes you can use to get money off your order.
Buy it from the shops – Okay, it might not taste exactly the same but you’ll save the most money by picking up your favourite dish from your local supermarket.
Student discounts – If you’re in full-time education or a member of the National Students Union then you may be able to get a discount of up to 15 per cent off the bill. It’s always worth asking before you place your order.
Molly Mae Hague breaks down in tears – as she celebrates baby Bambi’s birthday apart from Tommy Fury
MOLLY-MAE Hague today admitted to breaking down in tears as she celebrated baby Bambi’s birthday apart from Tommy Fury.
The Love Island star, 25, is co-parenting her daughter with her former fiance Tommy, 25, following their split last year.
Taking to Instagram, Molly posted a video of her two-year-old daughter as a baby.
Opening up about how she was feeling on Bambi’s second birthday, she candidly wrote: “I was looking through old pictures…and found this video which made me cry!
“I wish I knew then what I knew now… that the best times were round the corner.
“To my other new mums out there that resonate with this video… the best times are yet to come.
“I can’t believe I’m two years on and loving motherhood more than I could’ve ever imagined.
“If only I knew.”
This new post comes just a few days after fans spotted a clue Molly has secretly taken her ex fiancé back following claims he cheated on a lads’ holiday.
Eagle-eyed followers pointed it out on Instagram – and thought it could even be Molly and Tommy’s “soft launch” on social media weeks after The Sun revealed their New Year’s Eve kiss.
The pair tried to keep their NYE reunion a secret – before she confirmed in her Prime Video series Molly Mae: Behind It All that she wanted to work through their issues.
In scenes broadcast on Amazon documentary series, she sobs while recalling pleading with her partner to ditch alcohol.
She later tells the camera the thought of rekindling their romance is “getting me through”.
Since the release of the series – which delivered Prime’s highest ever opening day ratings for a show in the UK – Molly has been sharing regular updates from her life on Instagram.
On Monday, she posted a cute video of their daughter Bambi playing with the family cats.
But the figure of a man was spotted by her followers in the reflection of the window behind Bambi.
One fan shared it on Reddit and commented: “Is that not Tommy in the background of her IG story of Bambi?”
Another agreed, writing: “I also think they’re definitely back together and it will be announced in the last episode of her Amazon prime series.”
And one more said: “It’s probably a soft launch expect to see more snippets of him before the official announcement.”
Timeline of Molly-Mae and Tommy Fury's split
After five years together, Molly-Mae and Tommy Fury split up in August 2024.
At around 4pm on Wednesday, August 14, Molly-Mae and Tommy suffer an explosive showdown and Molly-Mae announces her split from fiancé Tommy Fury, saying ‘ I never imagined our story would end, especially not this way’.
An hour later Tommy shares a separate and brief statement confirming they have parted ways, and thanks Molly-Mae for making him ‘a dad’.
The real reason they split emerges and on Thursday, August 15 The Sun reveals how Molly-Mae learned Tommy had cheated on her – leading to an explosive showdown.
On Saturday, August 17, The Sun reveals how Molly-Mae had been sent an upsetting video showing Tommy kissing a girl in a nightclub in North Macedonia on a lads holiday.
Exactly one week after the split a Danish woman accused of getting close to Tommy speaks to The Sun. On Wednesday, August 21, she denies she is the girl who kissed Tommy.
Much-loved tourist attraction forced to close for good at short notice
A TOP UK attraction that only reopened last year has confirmed that they would be closing down.
Zip World Conwy launched at the former Adventure Parc Snowdonia in March 2024, after the closure of the surf lagoon the previous year.
However, they have since confirmed that they would be closing down with immediate notice.
They said on social media: “After much careful consideration, we have made the decision to cease operations at Zip World Conwy.
“This was not a choice we took lightly, and we want to extend our deepest gratitude to all of our guests and supporters who have made the site such a special indoor adventure destination throughout 2024.”
The attraction closed for the winter season in December 2024, and was due to reopen for February half term.
Anyone who has bookings for the attraction will be contacted by Zip World.
Families have been left gutted by the news, with one saying: “So sad.
“We’ve had three lovely family holidays at this site, staying in the hotel and enjoying the on site activities.”
Another said: “This is so sad, we love the soft play and the BMX track.”
Known for their treetop adventure parks, Zip World Conway had five attractions.
Adrenaline Indoors had a ninja assault course, extreme slides and jump zones, as well as rope courses and monkey bars.
Elevation Indoors was their high ropes course, with Altitude Climber being a huge climbing experience.
And the indoor soft play had multi-levels of obstacles, slides and a ball bit.
Outside was the Adrenaline Drop, with a 40ft freefall and you could even stay onsite – there were 30 camping pods outside, with heated rooms and outdoor decking.
There are three other Zip Worlds still in Wales with the world’s fastest zip line at Penrhyn Quarry.
Last year they launched the Aero Explore, the ‘UK’s first zipline rollercoaster’ and they have submitted plans for a new ride called The Swing.
Connected to the rail by harness, passengers are swing around the 400metre track, with top speeds of 30mph.
And Zip World Llechwedd is home to the world’s first underground golf course, which opened in 2022, as well as Europe‘s first “four person zip line”.
Zip World Fforest has the UK’s only alpine coaster.
Elsewhere there is a Zip World in both Manchester and Windemere.
And a new Zip World has opened in London at the Olympic Park.
Thankfully there are lots of other indoor attractions in the UK – here are the best ones for a rainy day.
Cleansers are my favourite skincare product & I’ve tried hundreds – the top 8 washes including £9 bargain
THANKS to my job as a beauty journalist, I can get my hands on just about any beauty product.
And the words out of stock rarely exist when you’re not actually buying the products – I know, I’m very lucky!
When my sister asked for a limited-edition perfume for Christmas that had long since sold out (and was listed for more than double the price on eBay), the brand still had some spares in the office, so they kindly sent one her way.
And after lamenting about the best lip balm I’d ever tried being discontinued over a year after it came off shelves, the company managed to find three tubs to keep me afloat while I continued to campaign for its relaunch (though I’m still waiting for the reluanch to happen!).
But, sometimes, it’s not so easy to get hold of certain products – which is exactly the problem I had when my favourite cleanser – Monday Muse The Cleanser, £28 – completely sold out last year.
Monday Muse The Cleanser, £28
It’s been my go-to for at least two years now, and while I’ve tried multiple other products during that time, it’s the one I always return to.
Like a safety blanket for my skin, it wipes away make-up (yes, even mascara) without leaving any residue behind, or irritating my eyes, drying out my skin, causing irritation or breakouts.
And the slimline packaging makes it perfect for travel, too.
I lost the lid of my last tube after one too many spicy Margs, and kept it standing upside down in my bathroom cupboard for almost two months until I had to cut it in half to scrape out every last drop.
Now, thankfully, it’s finally back on shelves (I had to stock up before I told you, as I couldn’t risk missing out!), but while I waited, I tried a new cleanser virtually every night until I found a few more I can rely on just as heavily should I run out of my fave again.
Farmacy Green Clean, £34
Here’s everything I learned…
BEST CLEANSER FOR REMOVING MAKE-UP
Farmacy Green Clean, £34, has always been my go-to for removing heavy make-up, like glitter eyeshadow and bright lipstick, because it immediately melts them away.
It’s one of the only balm cleansers I can use that doesn’t cause me to break out, and even has the seal of approval from dermatologist Dr Thivi Marathappu, so if you have acne-prone skin but like the consistency of a balm, it’s a safe choice.
I’ve realised that at this time of year, when my skin is feeling the drying effects of central heating, I can use it every night rather than just on special occasions.
Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm, £38
BEST CLEANSER FOR DRY SKIN
If you don’t break out in spots just looking at an oily product, it’s worth trying Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm, £38, which was my favourite cleanser find of last year.
The bright-yellow balm breaks down make-up on contact, so you don’t have to laboriously rub at your face.
A little goes a long way, and if you apply too much it can be hard to rinse off some of the oils.
So if your skin is feeling congested, it’s worth following up with a foaming cleanser such as Dr Idriss Soft Wash, £31, to help get rid of any residue.
It’s the best second cleanser I’ve ever tried – it’s not tough enough to remove long-wear foundation or mascara, but it’s one of the only foaming cleansers I’ve used that doesn’t leave my face a tiny bit dry.
It is also a great morning cleanser when I just want to remove last night’s skincare – and after accidentally getting it in my eye, I can confirm it’s kind to eyes, too.
Dr Jart+ Dermaclear pH Cleanser Foam Face Wash, £16
Why do women lose hair in winter?
Anabel Kingsley, Consultant Trichologist and Brand President at Philip Kingsley spoke exclusively to Fabulous.
You can experience increased hair fall in winter for many reasons, such as due to dietary changes, illness, stress levels and compromised scalp health.
We do know that dandruff and a flaky scalp are more common in winter, which in turn can increase hair fall. People also tend to shampoo less often in the winter, which can lead to the illusion you are losing more hair than usual. The more days you leave between cleansing your scalp, the more hairs you will see when you do as they accumulate.
Another thing to note is that winter is flu season, and high fevers usually cause hair shedding. Due to the nature of the hair growth cycle, you don’t notice hair fall straight away – it takes from six to 12 weeks for it to occur.
BEST CLEANSER FOR BREAKOUTS
Less is more when you struggle with spots – less oil, less time scrubbing and less products.
Dr Jart+ Dermaclear pH Cleanser Foam Face Wash, £16, has a gel-to-foam formula – AKA the best of both worlds – that’s creamy without being oily, and leaves skin comfortably clean.
Likewise, The Body Shop Camomile Jelly One-Step Cleanser, £12, is the younger sister of the brand’s iconic cleansing balm, which has the same one-step, make-up removing properties in a gel-to-milk consistency that’s more suited to congested and combination skin types.
Super Facialist Rosehip Hydrate Cream Cleanser, £9
BEST EVERYDAY CLEANSER
Laneige Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser, £25, is the newest cleanser to enter my rotation.
It removes everything I need it to with just two pumps, and leaves my skin feeling soft and hydrated thanks to hyaluronic and amino acids.
Through my trials, I’ve realised gel and cream formulas that lightly foam are my favourite and strike the perfect balance between leaving my skin feeling clean and fresh but not stripped.
Super Facialist Rosehip Hydrate Cream Cleanser, £9, falls firmly into that category.
I discovered it when having a facial last year and can’t believe it dropped off my radar.
It’s calming and caring – despite the strong rose scent – yet the rich cream has enough cleansing agents to remove make-up in one step.
I think it might just be my new daily go-to, and I can buy it at the supermarket, so there’s no stress about it going out of stock!
How Sophie Wessex defrumped her look to become the most stylish royal & it’s thanks to guru’s ‘fairy godmother’ makeover
PRINCESS Kate is known for her impeccable royal style and for selling out clothes she wears.
But her close pal and royal confidante Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh – who celebrated her 60th birthday this week – is fast beginning a royal style icon in her own right.
While the “Princess Kate effect” is frequently evident with the clothes she wears flying off shelves, Sophie has also proven herself to a understated fashion heavyweight, looking better than ever at 60.
Over the years she’s worn some stunning looks, and has often set style rules well before Kate’s time.
It was reported that Sophie, who has been a “tower of strength” for the Princess of Wales through her preventative cancer treatment, even shops for the stylish royal mum-of-three.
Royal biographer Claudia Joseph told Fabulous: “Jeans designer Donna Ida once revealed that Sophie bought her £295 black Sadie jumpsuit for herself and then asked for one for Kate.”
Sophie hasn’t always been as confident when it comes to her style choices.
Back when she first met Prince Edward in the 90’s, Sophie said she had no interest in fashion and didn’t understand why it was ‘part of her job’.
However, from becoming the patron of London College of Fashion in 2013, to being named on Vanity Fair’s best dressed list in 2015, she has upped her fashion stakes over the years.
One of her style turning points was enlisting the help of Pandora Delevingne (mother of British supermodel Cara) to help with her style – although according to the Telegraph, now “most of her style is her own doing.”
According to the Mail, former Selfridges personal shopper Pandora helped to “defrump” Sophie by giving her “expensively cut outfits, by designers such as Suzannah and Valentino”, which has helped her to “appear years younger”.
Her second “fairy godmother” was close friend and stylist Georgie Pincus, who lives close to Sophie’s 120-room Bagshot Park home, who has now given up fashion work to be a yoga teacher.
Here, Deputy Fashion Editor Abby McHale takes a look at how the Duchess is actually the underrated style icon of the royal family…
Flashing Flesh
Whilst royal rules can often dictate not showing too much skin, Sophie hasn’t always stuck to this.
Back in 2012 for a ball in celebration of the Paralympics Sophie, then 47, looked stunning in a pink asymmetric gown.
Not only did it show off her arms and shoulders (something not often seen from the royals), but the figure hugging gown with ruched side detailing flattered her shape and showed that the royals don’t have to be so conservative when it comes to fashion.
Diplomatic Dressing
In her decades of being a working royal she has been around the world and back, visiting many countries, she often honours the place she is visiting through her fashion.
Seen here in 2002, long before the likes of Kate Middleton came on the scene, Sophie wore this red dress whilst on a visit to Norway.
The low cut neckline and straps were once again risque for a royal, but she sure pulled off the look and surely got a seal of approval from the Scandinavians.
Inside Sophie's glamorous 60th birthday bash at 120-room estate
WHEN it comes to parties, the Duchess of Edinburgh is not known for hogging the limelight.
But Sophie was said to be celebrating her 60th birthday with a dinner and dance party organised by her husband Prince Edward at Bagshot Park, the grand house in Berkshire which Edward and Sophie moved into shortly after their wedding in 1999.
Yet despite its grandeur, 120-room Bagshot has rarely been used by Edward and Sophie for formal entertaining – until most recently this black-tie bash, with all royal family members on the guest list.
It was said staff for the party were to be borrowed from nearby Windsor Castle as the Edinburghs do not lead an ostentatious life.
Their only everyday employees are a butler (whose actual job title is Household Manager) and a housemaid/cleaner.
“Neither Sophie or Edward are what you might call big party animals,” says a source close to the family.
Naturally included for the celebrations have been the Edinburghs’ son James, Viscount Severn, 16, who is studying for his A-levels at the all-boys boarding school Radley, and daughter Lady Louise, 21, who is reading English at St Andrew’s University.
Care To Re-wear
She may have access to top end designers and all the clothes she could want, but Sophie is also a great example of a royal who recycles her outfits.
One example is this pink and white gingham coat dress by Suzannah.
First worn in 2022 for Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee, she was seen again just under a year later at King Charles first garden party at Buckingham Palace.
Showing that even statement pieces don’t just have to be one hit wonders.
Like Mother Like Daughter
Racking up a plethora of looks, Sophie must have a wardrobe full of clothes anyone would want to try.
Luckily for Lady Louise, she has access to her mothers wardrobe and has been seen out numerous times in pieces worn first by the Duchess.
Tapping into her designer coat collection, Lady Louise wore a navy Stella McCartney coat back in 2023, which was first seen on Sophie in 2017.
Flower Power
A staple in Sophie’s wardrobe, she shows, when in doubt opt for florals, they never go out of style.
Having been seen in numerous floral looks over the years, this theory stretches way back to the 90’s before Sophie married Prince Edward.
Wearing a floral mini dress for Ascot in 1995, this look is something that would still be seen in today’s world – showing how well dressed she’s been from the get go.
Matchy Matchy
Tonal dressing is a favourite style tip of the royals.
Often making your outfit look expensive, elegant and super flattering.
Sophie often likes to match her clothes to her accessories, more importantly her hats.
Not only is this butter yellow look she wore for Trooping The Colour last year bang on trend colour wise, but she has matched her Beulah London dress with a yellow hat from Jane Taylor Millinery impeccably.
Belt It Up
Another styling trick used by the Duchess over the years is to add a belt to create more shape to a look.
Wearing a powder blue cashmere coat back in 2019 for a trip to Sandhurst from one of her favourite brands Suzannah, Sophie showed how well a belt can complete a look.
Not only does the belt cinch in the whole look and pull it together, but with this particular belt being attached and the same shade as the coat it creates a smoother and sleeker look – giving her extra styling points.
Smart Tailoring
Adding a blazer is a sure fire way to make any outfit look smarter and this is something Sophie has been doing for decades.
Delving into the archives for pictures of Sophie around the time of her engagement to Prince Edward you can see she’s wearing on trend oversized blazers that wouldn’t look out of place with fashion today.
Literally – she wore a very similar grey double breasted blazer back in September last year on a trip to a vineyard in Kent.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh's 'humble' start in life
UNLIKE Prince Edward, Sophie comes from humble beginnings.
The daughter of a tyre salesman and a secretary, she was working in PR at Capital Radio when they met in 1987.
Edward was dating her friend at the time, but six years later they got together after a charity event.
Sophie continued to work for a few years after they got married before finally becoming a full-time royal in 2002.
“I remember our first meeting many years ago when she was just becoming known as Edward’s girlfriend,” former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond said.
“I was lunching at The Ritz with one of the Queen Mother’s ladies in waiting when I saw Sophie at a nearby table. I seized the moment and introduced myself which was probably very annoying for her, but she was charm personified, and we chatted for a few minutes.
“And I really don’t think she has changed much since then.
“Yes, she and Edward live in a mansion, have titles and huge privilege, but Sophie has known a life outside those cloistered palace walls and she has kept her sense of perspective.
“For example, she has told her children that, titles or no titles – and they have chosen thus far not to use their HRH status – they should expect to have to earn a living.
“Sophie was happy for her daughter to take on a seasonal job at a garden centre for less than £7 an hour.
“And during the pandemic Sophie served as a volunteer with the Royal Voluntary Service, talking with people on the phone to help them combat the feeling of isolation – and she carried on talking with some of them after the pandemic ended.
“She will also often travel under the radar to places like Malawi, Botswana or Ethiopia to visit projects dedicated to promoting eye health and preventing blindness, and she does this from the heart after her daughter Louise was born with a squint.
“Sophie is one of the strengths of the new monarchy – elegant, engaging and empathetic. I think people have really taken her into their hearts.”
Horror moment Russian boy in army fatigues is told ‘KILL f***ing Ukrainians’ as Putin’s brainwashing plunges new depths
SHOCKING videos show how young children in Russia are being given military training to “kill Ukrainians”.
One child in army fatigues with a call sign ‘Falcon’ is seen holding his gun while being instructed at a camp in Novosibirsk, in Siberia.
His trainer named Daniil Shargan barks: “Learn how to kill Ukrainians.
“Now you’ll practice next.”
Older boys are then seen crawling on their stomachs in the snow with rifles as they undergo the brutal war training.
The foul-mouthed trainer then says to the young child: “Got it, Falcon?”
The boy who looks about six years old replies: “Yes sir.”
“The Ukrainians can’t ****ing kill themselves. We have to do it,” the instructor told the baby-faced soldier.
A separate video – also from Novosibirsk – shows more boys being put through their paces in the snow, part of Vladimir Putin’s plans to militarise and propagandise Russian children.
The instructor commands: “Come on, come on, Eagle, kill them, Ukrainians!”
He orders them: “Fight! Fire! Bam-bam-bam-bam!”
The training area used by the sick instructor was actually a snow-covered children’s playground.
Shargan is “a Special Military Operation [war] veteran with two tours of duty” known for his harsh tactics, say reports.
The videos are separate from the organisation Yunarmia, likened to the Hitler Youth – the Russian dictator’s 1.75 million-strong young army, which gives military training to boys and girls from the age of eight.
In Moscow, schoolchildren have begun to be automatically registered for military service by text message.
At the age of 17, they now receive automatic notifications about their military registration.
By 18, they are summoned to the “Unified Conscription Point” for a document check and to discover if they have the right to a deferment.
Meanwhile, Russian nursery schools – called kindergartens – have begun patriotism lessons in a scheme approved by Putin.
These “conversations about the important” give children a better understanding of the importance of serving the Motherland, it is claimed.
In November, the UK placed sanctions on Putin’s evil child snatchers who kidnapped and brainwashed thousands of Ukrainian children.
The government came down hard on 10 of the sick masterminds behind the kidnapping of children to be tortured and “re-educated”.
Around 20,000 children had been taken across the border including disabled kids taken from special needs schools.
It is believed that about 6,000 of these kidnapped children have been bundled into Russia‘s sinister “zombie” camps.
Here they are forced to speak Russian, are brainwashed in a scheme that removes their Ukrainian identity with Kremlin propaganda.
They are told their loved ones have abandoned them and that they belong to Russia before having their official documents altered and being taken to Russian families.
Named and shamed: List of Putin's child-snatchers sanctioned by UK
BY Patrick Harrington, Foreign News Reporter
The full list of Russian child-snatchers sanctioned by the UK:
- All-Russian Young Army Military Patriotic Social Movement (Yunarmia)
- Nikita Vladimirovich Nagorny
- Igor Kazarezov
- Andrey Sabinov
- Serafim Vikentevich Ivanov
- Avangard
- Olena Oleksandrivna Shapurova
- Valentina Vasilyevna Lavrik
- Tetiana Zavalska
- Vitaliy Aleksandrovich Suk
I’m a single mum-of-4 & holidays are the priority – I save hundreds to go away by stockpiling food & sleeping on a sofa
A SAVVY mum-of-four has shared her best money-saving hacks to make sure she can send her kids on holiday.
The single mum took to social media revealing how she saves money throughout the year to make sure her kids have the best childhood.
Charlene Woracker revealed that she gave up her bedroom so her son could have his own room instead of moving to a bigger house and paying more rent.
Instead, the selfless mum got a sofa bed for the front room and now sleeps there.
The mum-of-four is able to save on her shopping bill as well by stockpiling her food and cleaning essentials.
“Stockpile to cut down on weekly expenses, I only spend £50 a week on groceries, so it saves me money in the long run,” she explained.
Sharing a picture of her cupboard under the stairs, she had piles of toilet roll, condiments, washing-up liquid and bath products.
When she isn’t stockpiling from stores, Charlene is making her own household products to store away, including her own skincare and cleaning products.
Charlene also used the ‘cash stuffing’ technique to help her budget for the month.
Cash stuffing is where you have different folders, labelled with things like “bills“, “rent”, “groceries” and fill these with the amount of cash you have budgeted for yourself for that particular cost each month.
By being able to physically see how much money you have allocated for each expense, it becomes easier to not go over budget.
Other tips from the mum include never buying coffee while out, making her own freezer food like chips, and buying presents in the January sales.
She said: “I buy most of my Christmas/birthday presents in the end of January sales, I’ve bought things that are worth £50 reduced to £1 you just need to look out often for deals.”
The mum-of-four admitted it might seem like she sacrifices a lot by living on a budget, but her ways ensure she is able to prioritise holidays for her family.
The clip, posted to her TikTok account @mummybudgets, has over 90k views and 1,700 likes.
People were quick to comment, praising the mum for her frugal tips to give her kids holidays throughout the year.
One person wrote: “My husband and I sleep on a sofa bed in our living room so our kids can have their own rooms. It’s not normal, but it works! Plus, I always fell asleep on the sofa anyway.”
Another commented: “You seem like such a good mum with common sense. Things are costing so much these days. Hats off to you.”
“I think this is admirable, you’re doing a great job,” penned a third.
Time-saving mum hacks
Morning Routine
Nighttime Preparation: Set out clothes for yourself and the kids, pack lunches, and organise backpacks before bed.
Effortless Breakfasts: Keep simple, healthy breakfast options on hand, such as overnight oats, smoothie packs, or pre-made breakfast burritos.
Meal Planning
Weekly Meal Prep: Dedicate time each week to plan your meals to eliminate daily decision-making.
Bulk Cooking: Prepare larger quantities and freeze portions for future use.
Hands-Off Cooking: Make use of slow cookers or Instant Pots for easy, unattended meal prep.
Ready-to-Use Veggies: Purchase pre-chopped vegetables or chop them all at once to save time during the week.
Household Chores
Daily Laundry: Do a load of laundry every day to prevent a buildup of dirty clothes.
Continuous Cleaning: Encourage kids to clean up after themselves and perform small cleaning tasks throughout the day.
Efficient Multitasking: Fold laundry while watching TV or listen to audiobooks/podcasts while cleaning.
Organisation
Family Command Centre: Set up a central hub with a calendar, to-do lists, and important documents.
Daily Decluttering: Spend a few minutes each day decluttering to maintain an organised home.
Organised Storage: Use bins and baskets to keep items neat and easy to locate.
Kid Management
Prepared Activity Bags: Have bags packed with essentials for various activities (e.g., swimming, sports).
Routine Visuals: Implement visual charts to help kids follow their routines independently.
Task Delegation: Assign age-appropriate chores to children to foster responsibility and reduce your workload.
Meanwhile a fourth said: “Omg £50 a week is amazing for the size of your family, I need to take a leaf out of your book.”
“Well done, smashing it,” claimed a fifth.
Someone else added: “You’re a fabulous mum.”
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Israel names next hostage to be released by Hamas as Arbel Yehud who was kidnapped with boyfriend from her home on Oct 7
AN Israeli woman who was kidnapped with her boyfriend from her home during the October 7 bloodbath is set to be the next hostage released by Hamas.
Arbel Yehud, 29, could be in the next batch of captives set to return home on Saturday as Israel ramps up pressure on the terror group.
Yehud was abducted alongside her boyfriend, Ariel Cunio, from their Kibbutz Nir Oz home during Hamas’s October 7 horror attacks that left over 1,200 people dead.
Her brother, Dolev Yehud, was killed by the terrorists while defending the kibbutz and his remains were identified last June.
Jerusalem now insists Yehud be among the four female hostages expected to be freed under the ongoing ceasefire deal.
She is one of only seven of the 33 female captives who were initially scheduled to be freed as part of the hostage ceasefire agreement.
The others are Danielle Gilboa, 20, Karina Ariev, 20, Agam Berger, 21, Liri Albag, 19, Shiri Silberman Bibas, 33, and Naama Levy, 20.
But Yehud’s fate is complicated by reports that she is being held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad, not Hamas, says The Times of Israel.
This has raised fears that her release, expected Saturday, could face delays.
Hamas is due to deliver the list of hostages scheduled for release on Friday.
The ceasefire deal, brokered last week, has already seen the return of three hostages — Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher — in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
For each civilian hostage freed, Israel has released 30 prisoners, including convicted terrorists.
The next phase will see four hostages returned, with further exchanges planned weekly for at least six weeks.
As Israel pushes for answers, the international community is closely watching the unfolding negotiations, which remain fraught with tension.
Over 46,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began, and the prospect of further polarization looms.
Emily Damari was one of the first three Israeli hostages released in phase one of the ceasefire-hostage deal between Israel and Hamas.
The Israeli-Brit lost two fingers after being shot by Hamas during the October 7 attack on her kibbutz, Kfar Aza, where she was ambushed.
Her long-awaited release comes as the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas holds after months of relentless warfare.
The truce was nearly derailed in the final hours of negotiations, but hostages were exchanged as part of the deal, marking the first step toward a tenuous pause in hostilities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made clear this ceasefire is temporary, emphasising: “We are committed to dismantling Hamas and bringing every hostage home.”
The reunion of the hostages with their families in southern Israel was a moment of raw emotion.
But before escaping terror hell, Emily, Romi and Doron were handed Hamas “gift bags” containing haunting mementos of their captivity.
The bags reportedly included photos of the women during their imprisonment and a so-called “certificate” – acting as a grim reminder of their 15-month nightmare in Gaza.
Meanwhile, a Hamas leader has said he wants to meet with new President Donald Trump amid fears that the fragile ceasefire in Gaza won’t last.
The senior terror chief revealed just hours after the pause in fighting kicked in that the militant group was ready to open a dialogue with the US.
In a rare departure from its stance on Israel’s closest ally, Qatar-based Mousa Abu Marzouk told The New York Times: “We’re prepared for a dialogue with America and achieving understandings on everything.”
Meanwhile Trump, 78, said he is “not confident” that the ceasefire in war-torn Gaza will hold, over a year into Hamas’ war with Israel.
Speaking to the press after his historic inauguration, Trump said: “That’s not our war, it’s their war. But I’m not confident.”
Who are the first three freed hostages?
by Juliana Cruz Lima, Foreign News Reporter
AFTER 471 harrowing days in captivity, three Israeli women have returned home as part of the ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas.
The first phase of the agreement saw the release of Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari, who were emotionally reunited with their families in Israel on Sunday, January 19.
Romi Gonen, 24
A passionate dancer and choreographer, Romi was abducted while fleeing the Nova music festival in the Negev Desert, where Hamas terrorists killed over 360 people during the October 7 onslaught.
Originally from Kfar Veradim in northern Israel, Romi had called her mother moments before her capture, describing the chaos as gunfire and shouting surrounded her.
Her family kept her room untouched, waiting for her return with her dad breaking down in tears of joy upon his daughter’s release on Sunday.
Doron Steinbrecher, 31
A veterinary nurse, Doron was taken from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza near Gaza’s border on October 7.
The kibbutz was a major target, with homes burned and civilians killed or abducted.
Doron hid under her bed as militants stormed her home but was captured after sending desperate WhatsApp messages to family.
In her final message, she could be heard screaming, “they’ve caught me”.
For months, her family had no word of her whereabouts.
Upon her release, her family said: “After an unbearable 471 days, our beloved Dodo has finally returned to our arms.
“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported and accompanied us along this journey.”
Emily Damari, 28
A British-Israeli dual citizen, Emily was shot in the hand and kidnapped from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza.
Her dog was tragically killed during the assault.
Emily’s mother, Mandy, who hid in a nearby safe room, received one final message from her daughter — a single heart emoji.
Emily was reunited with her mother in Israel, where they hugged while video-calling her brother.
Her mother expressed gratitude for international efforts to bring Emily home, highlighting her daughter’s strong ties to the UK, her love for Tottenham Hotspur, and frequent visits to see relatives.
The women’s release marks the beginning of a six-week process to free 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Negotiations are ongoing to secure the return of over 65 individuals still held in Gaza.