Category Archives: Life & Style

Columbia Community Association puts on a bit of a ‘do’ for Valentine’s Day and we were there – of course. Why would we not be – we love any opportunity to meet up with our Washington pals.

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Margaret and Dick trotted up to Washington and Brady Square on February 14th to share cake and coffee with their pals, and lose badly at the Valentine’s Quiz. Heavens, did you know that Cupid’s mother was Venus? You did? Heavens again. Try this: Shakespeare mentions Valentine’s Day in which of his plays? Hamlet. Ah ha, gotcha. We didn’t either. Try the anagrams. Eros is Rose. I got that, yes I did. And FTIG = Gift. Then I ground to a halt. Dick did better.

All was arranged by the fabulous couple who have dragged, chivvied and encouraged the CCA into its present amazing bustling self much helped by its updated home. Yes, Marion and Red Shoes Bob had done it again – a brilliant time was had by all though on this occasion it was Marion who was wearing the Red Shoes – she so likes to keep me on my toes.

It was a while since we had been up so there was plenty to catch up on. Joan nipped over and we talked a lot about Brady Square memories. My mum, little Annie Newsome as she was known as a child, would have laughed and laughed. Then we women chatted again, of course, and Red Shoes Bob and Dick discussed whatever it was men discuss, earnestly.

Then it was time to whizz to The Washington Arms near to The Old Hall, which was George Washington’s ancestral home, for our usual fish n chips. No-one does them quite like The Washington Arms then found ourselves trundling home to see two very miffed dogs who know they would LOVE to spend time at the CCA, and would behave – sort of, and just a chip or two at the pub. Is it too much to ask?

Marion shared with us that there is great news coming very soon about a digital hub which is to be set up at the CCA. More later, but we are all so very excited. How wonderful that would be. Frost Magazine will report. Marion and Bob are magic, they make things happen. Lucky lucky CCA.

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Diary of an Author In The Run Up To Publication.

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My first fiction book, Ember, came out in 2022. As a baby author my overwhelm was helped by being part of a debut group. I was so grateful to become a published author that I was naive. It was a big rollercoaster of emotions as I tried to make my way. Before And After The Book Deal by Courtney Maum was a lifesaver. Full of great advice. It’s like having someone to hold your hand through a tough journey.

I am two weeks out from publication day on my second book. This is not a drill. Where The Light is Hottest will be out on February 27th. I am excited and stressed all at the same time. I wrote a piece about the book for The Sunday Times. I am also doing a good number of events and podcast interviews in the future.

I don’t think people realise how much work goes into being a writer. There are endless trips to the post office (over £17 to post four books. Yikes), interviews and an endless amount of emails. Months and years can go into the publication of a book. I signed the contract in July 2023. I wrote the first draft of the book nine years ago. I entered it into The Good Housekeeping writing competition. I was upset when it didn’t win but it wasn’t ready then. Nowhere near it. I finally got the book where I wanted it to be by reading other books with the same energy.

Where The Light is Hottest, Catherine Yardley, Balavage

Where The Light is Hottest is based on my experiences in the film industry. It has lots of gossip and backstabbing. It has female friendship and is a feminist tale of survival and what it takes to achieve your dreams.. The main character, Natasha Jones, is Scottish and some of the book is set in Lanarkshire, Scotland. It is also set in London, New York, LA and Gstaad. It is dual timeline, told from the past as Natasha makes it, alongside her friends Scarlet and Claudia from drama school, and in the present as people try to bring her down. She is a famous, Oscar-winning, actress and dark forces are at work. Spreading rumours and sharing stories about her to Popbitch. If any of this sounds like your thing you can preorder here: https://tinyurl.com/Where-The-Light-is-Hottest 

I will be writing a lot about author life. So keep an eye out for more.

The Must-Have Bras for Every Occasion and Outfit

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Exquisite styling and perfect-fitting bras can completely transform a woman’s silhouette. You may have the trendiest clothes, the most envied make-up palette, or the hottest accessory, but without the right bra, you would be missing out on your complete look. The lingerie you style yourself in has the power to either make or break your ensemble. 

Your selection of bras shouldn’t just be based on your clothing style or preference, but also on your body shape and the comfort it offers. Let’s explore the must-have bras for every occasion and outfit that will help you look sensational and feel confident.

Bold and Beautiful: Sexy Push-Up Bras

For those times when you need a little boost of confidence, a sexy push up bra can be your best friend. Not only does it enhance your figure, creating more volume and a voluptuous silhouette, but it also provides abundant support. It’s especially a good choice for ladies who don a plunging neckline. Such bras are crafted with padding that could either be removable or built-in and give an alluring lift to your form. Enhance your cocktail attire or those sophisticated evening gowns with a sexy push up bra and embrace the bold and beautiful in you.

Confidence at Work: T-Shirt Bras

When it comes to daily office or casual wear outfits, a T-shirt bra makes it to the top of the list. Its smooth, seamless finish makes it invisible under your tightest T-shirts, thin fabrics, or form-fitting apparel. This undergarment offers a clean, defined shape without any awkward lines showing through. Adding a dose of comfort to your long working hours, these bras could also have padded cups for no-show confidence that crucially accentuates your daily wear.

Sporty and Supple: Sports Bras

Hit the gym or pursue any athletic activity without compromising on comfort with sports bras. These practical intimates are designed to limit movement and offer maximum support during rigorous exercises. Built with breathable fabrics to wick away sweat, they immensely reduce discomfort and the risk of wear and tear. Choose a sports bra that complements your workout outfit and helps you perform at your peak without worry!

Elegantly Versatile: Convertible Bras

Convertible bras are the true transformers in the world of lingerie. Providing unrivaled versatility, they can easily adapt into a halter, strapless, or criss-cross style, adhering to the needs of your outfit. So, whether it’s a strappy summer dress, a sophisticated backless evening gown, an off-shoulder top, or a tricky neckline, the convertible bra complements every outfit effortlessly and elegantly.

Understated Beauty: Balconette Bras

Less coverage and wider straps make balconette bras the perfect choice for wide necklines and square-neck outfits. Giving a gentle lift to the bust, they create a fuller-looking bust-line enhancing the beauty of your attire. These bras, with their lower-cut cups and shorter wires, exude an understated beauty that easily matches your more daring outfits.

A Matter of Comfort: Wireless Bras

Choosing a bra shouldn’t settle down to just enhancing the outfit; it also has to encapsulate your comfort zone. Wireless bras offer not only softer and more natural support but also timeless ease. Ideal for loungewear or sleepwear, they cater to a cozy, snuggly feeling while giving you a relaxed fit.

Summing up, owning the right kind of bras can add unparalleled finesse to your outfits and boost your confidence at every event. What’s essential is keeping in mind the occasion, your body type, comfort level, and dress type while selecting the most appropriate bras. Treat yourself to an array of these must-have bras and enable your wardrobe to truly shine for every occasion and outfit.

Swimsuit Trends for Your Next Holiday: What’s In and What’s Out

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As we all know, fashion trends are dynamic; they are always changing and evolving. The same applies to swimwear. Be it a relaxed beach holiday or a bustling pool party, your choice of swimwear can make or break your look. If you are already planning your next holiday and want to upgrade your swimwear wardrobe, you are in luck. This article will help you stay ahead of the game by bringing you the latest swimsuit trends in 2025. Let’s dive right in!

A Fashionable Splash: Current Women’s Swimwear Trends

Swimwear trends are constantly evolving, bringing fresh and stylish designs each season. On top of the list is the trend of sexy swimwear for women. Swimwear designers have cleverly combined chic and sassy touches this year to elevate the traditional swimsuit into a powerful style statement. High-leg bikini bottoms that emphasize length and curves, as well as strappy, crisscross detailing for added allure have taken the lead in the sexy swimwear trend. 

Belted Swimsuits: A Stylish Cinch

Another big trend in this year’s swimwear fashion is the belted swimsuit. Inspired by the 80s, this swimwear trend is a win-win scenario for both fashion and functionality. The belt creates an instant hourglass shape and adds a glamorous touch to your beach or pool ensemble.

Animal Prints: Never Going Out of Style

There seems to be no taming of the animal print in beach fashion. From leopard print bikinis to snakeskin one-pieces, animal print swimwear continues to rule the fashion world. These bold, eye-catching prints can add an exciting and exotic twist to your beach look.

Swimwear “Out” or Less Trendy in 2025

While it’s essential to consider the trends that are “in,” it’s equally crucial to know the ones currently less popular. Ruffled swimwear and neon-colored outfits are finding less favor among beachgoers this year. 

Ruffled Swimwear: Not Top of the Wave Anymore

Ruffled swimsuits have witnessed a decline in popularity. Although they were once seen as a fun, feminine touch to a poolside look, this year, fashion enthusiasts seem to prefer sleeker, more refined styles rather than the frilly aesthetic.

Neon Swimwear: A Downward Trend 

After ruling the summers for a couple of years, neon-colored swimwear seems to be losing its charm. It appears that the trend has shifted towards more earthy tones, including olive, rust, and brown. These colors offer a subtler look and often compliment different skin tones better.

In a Nutshell

The verdict on 2025 swimsuit trends embraces a combination of style, sophistication, and exotic allure. Sexy swimwear designs, belted swimsuits, and animal prints are dominating the scene. At the same time, conventional styles like ruffles and neon colors are on a downward trend. 

So, it’s time to pack up and update your swimwear collection with the year’s most desirable trends. Whether it’s a sexy bikini with crisscross detailing, a belted one-piece that enhances your figure, or a daring animal print suit, be sure to make a splash on your next vacation and look confident in all your holiday photos! After all, the right swimwear should flatter your body and boost your confidence as you strike your best poses by the pool or on the beach.

Bright Ideas for Your Outdoor Space: Lighting Tips and Trends

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Creating an inviting outdoor space can enhance your home’s aesthetic and functionality. A well-lit exterior provides safety and elevates the overall appeal of your property, making it an ideal setting for relaxation and entertainment. As trends shift towards more integrated outdoor living areas, lighting plays a pivotal role in achieving a seamless flow from indoor to outdoor spaces.

The Impact of Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting serves multiple purposes beyond mere visibility. It enhances safety, highlights the beauty of your landscaping, and can even extend the usability of outdoor spaces into the evening. High-quality fixtures from durable materials ensure they withstand the elements while maintaining their aesthetic appeal. Choosing products that reflect your style can enhance the atmosphere of your outdoor areas, turning them into intimate settings for gatherings or peaceful retreats.

When selecting fixtures, consider the various options available. From sleek modern designs to timeless classics, the choices are aplenty. You might want to explore the garden lighting collection at Corston for a range of options that match your taste. The finish of the hardware also plays an essential role; finishes like antique brass or polished nickel can complement your home’s architecture while providing a sophisticated touch. Incorporating diverse styles allows you to create a cohesive look throughout your outdoor spaces.

Popular Trends in Outdoor Illumination

Innovative designs in outdoor illumination have gained popularity, reflecting the shift towards personalised outdoor environments. One current trend is the use of integrated lighting in landscaping, where lights are subtly embedded within the surroundings to create a magical glow that doesn’t overpower the space’s natural beauty. These solutions are perfect for accentuating pathways or highlighting the contours of garden beds without becoming obtrusive.

Another exciting trend is the rise of smart lighting solutions, allowing homeowners to control their outdoor lighting easily. This technology enables you to adjust brightness levels and sets schedules for when your lights should come on, enhancing security and energy efficiency. Combining functionality with style, these fixtures can be tailored to suit any occasion, from festive gatherings to quiet evenings under the stars.

Practical Tips for Implementing Outdoor Illumination

When planning your outdoor lighting, it’s crucial to consider the layout of your space. Begin by identifying key areas you want to illuminate, such as seating areas, pathways, and focal points like trees or sculptures. Layering your lighting by incorporating various types—ambient, task, and accent—will create depth and variety in your outdoor environment.

For instance, pendant lights or wall-mounted fixtures can provide ambient lighting for dining areas, while smaller, focused lights can highlight specific garden features or plants. Incorporating dimmer switches in your fixtures allows you to tailor the mood for different occasions.

Integrating high-quality fixtures with timeless designs can ensure your outdoor lighting remains stylish. These choices enhance the beauty of your home and increase its value and appeal.

The Role of Different Light Sources

Different types of light sources can significantly affect the mood and functionality of your outdoor space. LED lights are increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and longevity, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners. These lights are available in various colour temperatures, allowing you to create the desired atmosphere, whether warm and inviting or cool and refreshing.

Solar-powered lights are another sustainable option, harnessing sunlight to illuminate your outdoor areas at night. They are easy to install and come in numerous designs, from stake lights to wall sconces. These fixtures can enhance garden aesthetics while reducing reliance on electricity.

Traditional incandescent bulbs, whilst less energy efficient, are still favoured for their warm glow, making them ideal for creating a cosy atmosphere. Combining various light sources can help you achieve a balanced look catering to functionality and style.

Creating Zones with Lighting

Defining different zones in your outdoor environment can enhance both functionality and visual appeal. For instance, a dining area can be distinguished with hanging lights or chandeliers, while a lounge area can utilise softer, warmer lighting that invites relaxation. By strategically placing lighting fixtures, you can guide the flow of movement through the space and create inviting nooks for social interaction.

Use path lights to lead guests along walkways, ensuring safety and direction while showcasing your landscaping. Meanwhile, uplighting can accentuate trees or architectural features, drawing the eye upwards and adding depth to your outdoor environment. Implementing these techniques fosters a sense of organisation and encourages exploration of your outdoor spaces.

The Aesthetic Benefits of Lighting

Beyond practicality, outdoor lighting offers significant aesthetic benefits. Thoughtfully illuminated spaces can enhance your home’s architectural features and highlight the beauty of your landscaping. Spotlights can draw attention to unique plants or art pieces, creating visual interest and layering effects.

Moreover, lighting can influence how colours are perceived in your outdoor environment. Warm lights enhance earthy tones, making plants and surfaces appear more vibrant, while cooler lights create a serene and modern feel. Experimenting with different placements and styles can yield stunning results that elevate your outdoor design.

Enhancing Security with Outdoor Lighting

Effective outdoor lighting is a critical component of home security. Well-lit areas deter potential intruders by eliminating dark spots that might otherwise provide cover. Consider installing motion-activated lights at entry points such as front doors, driveways, and garages. These fixtures automatically illuminate when movement is detected, adding a layer of safety.

Pathway lighting also plays a significant role in security. Illuminating walkways guide guests to your front door and reduce the risk of accidents caused by uneven surfaces. Security lights should be positioned to cover vulnerable spots around your property, creating a sense of safety for you and your visitors.

Incorporating Lighting in Outdoor Furniture

Utilising lighting within outdoor furniture can enhance both functionality and aesthetics. For instance, tables can have built-in LED lights that provide soft illumination during meals or gatherings. Additionally, benches with under-lighting can create a striking visual effect, especially during evening events.

Outdoor umbrellas with integrated lighting allow for stylish dining experiences after dusk, providing illumination without compromising the overall look of your outdoor setup. These innovations make outdoor living spaces more versatile, turning them into vibrant gathering spots regardless of the time of day.

Seasonal Lighting Adjustments

Adjusting your outdoor lighting based on the seasons can keep your spaces fresh and inviting throughout the year. During the warmer months, consider using softer lighting to create a relaxed atmosphere for alfresco dining or late-night gatherings. In contrast, brighter lights can enhance daylight during autumn when shorter days signal earlier evenings.

For winter festivities, festive lighting can create a magical atmosphere. String lights or lanterns can accentuate architectural features and trees, bringing warmth and cheer to the chilly season. Embracing seasonal changes lets you adapt your outdoor environment to reflect the time of year, making it feel alive and dynamic.

Using Colour in Outdoor Lighting

Integrating colour into your outdoor lighting scheme can add an exciting dimension to your space. Coloured filters or bulbs can create themed lighting for special occasions like holidays or celebrations. For example, green and red Christmas lights or soft pastels for spring gatherings can enhance the festive spirit.

Additionally, strategically placed coloured lights can highlight specific landscape features, such as sculptures or water features, adding drama and enhancing the visual appeal. Experimenting with colour personalises your outdoor design and allows for creative expression.

A Lego Exhibition in Thirsk? Yes please.

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Entry was free, with donations welcome for Holy Rood House which is a retreat house with a difference, open and inclusive, with a warm welcome for all, Margaret joined the stream of parents with small children, and – well, just adults with no children – all chatting, looking and remembering happy days of simple fun. Above is a lego replica of Holy Rood House, but this was only the beginning.

Street scenes, galore, with a Dad next to us explaining the intricacies to his son and daughter. Yes, daughter, for lego has moved on. Indeed, I bought Wicked from Brickworld@btinternet.com for my grand-daughter:

She will love trecreating the scene on the box.

Then how about the band – striking in black and white –

Oh, and then onto this vibrant scene –

Heavens, that got the kids and dads and mums talking, remembering, while the children expanded their horizons well away from phones, tablets and onto little bricks which can create magic, including landscapes which could ‘Be put on walls, Dad?’

Do you know, we all just loved it, what a buzz, a hubub, a place of dreams, of creation. I do hope Delilah likes Wicked.

Mastering Your Money: The Power of Personalized Financial Dashboards

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Keeping track of your finances might be challenging in today’s fast-paced environment. Fortunately, albert’s smart financial dashboard makes it easy to manage money, analyze costs, and set financial goals. Users may construct a tailored spending plan with advanced budgeting tools and financial analytics, making it easier to manage bank accounts, credit card accounts, and investing tools all in one app. Albert, unlike other apps, provides a simple solution for consumers wishing to take complete charge of their personal finance path.

The Significance of a Financial Dashboard

A financial dashboard compiles all your financial data in one place to provide a thorough view of your financial health. It allows customers to manage their upcoming expenses, assess their monthly revenue, and keep their cash flow balanced. Unlike other services, this dashboard assists with financial organization by providing tools that put everything in one place. Thanks to customizable reports, users may evaluate financial patterns and make better financial decisions.

Statistical Data on Financial Dashboard Usage

MetricValue
Average Monthly Savings$500 per user
Users with Improved Credit Scores78% saw an increase within 6 months
Debt Reduction Rate40% reduction in outstanding debt within a year
Users Managing Multiple Accounts65% track at least three financial accounts
Investment Growth Rate8-12% average annual return on tracked portfolios
Bill Payment On-Time Success90% reduction in late payments
Budgeting Adherence Rate85% of users stay within their planned budget
Increase in Net Worth25% growth within two years of usage

How a Financial Dashboard Helps Manage Money

1. A Comprehensive Financial Overview

Many budgeting applications integrate with bank accounts, credit cards, and loans to provide a comprehensive financial picture of all transactions. This tool allows users to view previous transactions, track spending trends, and discover wasteful purchases. This kind of financial surveillance enables consumers to know where their money is going and make required adjustments.

2. Budgeting Made Simple

A decent budgeting software provides budgeting features such as endless envelopes for different types of expenses. The app provides both a basic version and a premium version to meet a variety of demands. A budgeting tool may help you set objectives and prepare for future spending, whether you are self-employed, a college student, or just seeking a financial counselor. This allows customers to be financially organized and better manage their earnings and expenses.

3. Expense Tracking in Real-Time

A financial dashboard connects all your accounts, providing a real-time snapshot of your personalized spending plan. Users can view their monthly income, run customizable reports, and adjust their budgets as needed. Albert, unlike other services, provides a user-friendly platform for tracking financial information. This feature enables users to plan ahead of time, ensuring they have enough funds for essential expenses while also setting aside money for saving.

4. Improved Investment and Savings Plans

Many people struggle with saving and investing. A financial dashboard incorporates investment tools, allowing users to successfully manage their money. It also gives information on net worth, allowing customers to track their financial progress over time. Users may utilize investment tracking to monitor portfolio performance and make educated financial decisions.

5. Credit Scores and Financial Status

Understanding your credit ratings is critical for maintaining financial stability. A budgeting tool that collects financial data can provide insights into improving credit health. Albert guarantees that premium members get the most out of their subscriptions by offering a complete return policy. Tracking your credit score with your other bank accounts gives you a comprehensive picture of your entire financial health.

6. Efficient Management of Loans and Bills

A solid budgeting program has bill reminders and loan tracking capabilities, so users never miss a payment. Individuals can prevent fines and exorbitant interest rates by keeping track of their outstanding obligations and anticipated costs. This functionality is especially useful for those who manage numerous accounts with various financial institutions.

Comparing Budgeting Apps: Finding the Best One

Many budgeting apps enable financial tracking, but only a handful give a comprehensive view of your finances. Quicken Simplifi (a registered brand) and Albert provide users with a streamlined experience, including resources, pricing alternatives, and access to financial advisors. These applications function by combining all areas of money management, including transaction tracking and savings goal creation.

Future of Financial Dashboards

With platforms accessible on Google Play and iOS, budgeting applications have a bright future ahead. Albert is a top financial management tool because of its ability to sync various accounts, produce personalized reports, and deliver real-time financial insights. This advancement in financial technology enables consumers to handle their money more effectively and efficiently.

Final Thoughts

A financial dashboard is a vital tool for everyone who wants to get control of their finances. Whether you’re handling bills, loans, or investments, the appropriate software may give vital financial data. Users may work confidently towards financial achievement by tracking transactions, creating budgets, and setting objectives. Personal finance is easier to manage when using tools that simplify the process and give relevant data-driven advice.

Take Charge of Your Financial Future

Users may make better financial decisions by using a financial dashboard, which provides them with relevant financial information and resources. There are both free and paid versions accessible, so there is something for everyone, from novices to seasoned investors. The best thing is that these tools integrate effortlessly into your lifestyle, whether you’re paying off debt, saving for a large purchase, or simply managing your day-to-day costs.

With the correct budgeting app and financial tools, you can take control of your finances now! The more proactive you are in arranging your funds, the more equipped you will be for long-term financial success.

Frost Editor in The Sunday Times Writing About New Book, Where The Light is Hottest

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Frost editor, Catherine Balavage Yardley, has written a powerful piece for The Sunday Times on her experiences in the film industry. Where The Light is Hottest is based on the real experiences of Catherine and people that she knew. While the book is fiction, it gets to the heart of an industry which is both beautiful and tough. Historically, it hasn’t treated women well. Let’s hope things change.

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The first review for Where The Light is Hottest is below. You can preorder it here. It’s out on February 27th.

Why am I so terrified?

‘Where the Light is Hottest’ is an uplifting but unflinching look at what it feels like for a woman to succeed as an actor. Protagonist Natasha is a wonderful creation: tough, passionate and loving in turn, fighting against a male-dominated hierarchy while surrounded by friends and family who are in turn supportive, dismissive and, all too often, downright poisonous in their readiness to betray Natasha and her dreams. I particularly liked her voice: ‘Being liked is overrated. You can’t take shit from people all the time so they’ll think you are likeable.’

As in Yardley’s earlier and equally readable book, ‘Ember’, torrid family relationships play an important role in ‘Where the Light is Hottest’. But I particularly enjoyed the focus on friendship, the struggle for success in a cut-throat, back-stabbing industry, and the fight for female empowerment. As one character says, ‘Do not doubt yourself, Natasha. They doubt us all the time. Be brave and put yourself out there knowing you are just as good as anyone else.’

I also learned a few terrific new words, including a ‘fashiongasm’ and a ‘floordrobe’. 

‘Where the Light is Hottest’ is a great, entertaining and ultimately joyful read. I thoroughly enjoyed its depiction of a woman’s fight for success in an environment where she never quite can relax. As Natasha says in an insightful moment: ‘My life has completely changed. It is everything I ever wanted. So why am I so terrified?’