Dogs are not simply “fur babies” or best friend but a blend of both, researchers have found in a study they say highlights the special status of pets. The study suggests owners rate their relationship with their dogs as being as satisfying or more satisfying than their closest human relationships. However, the researchers did not … Read more
I have often felt as if I was born 100 years too late. There was a time when satellites weren’t whizzing above us and everything had yet to be discovered or filmed. Growing up, it seemed as if all the great adventures had happened before I was born. But in 2013 I discovered that – … Read more
Yoghurt flatbreads make a weekly appearance in our kitchen, because they are so effortless and versatile. If I have forgotten to pick up a loaf, I will often panic-make them for breakfast or packed lunches. While they are great on the side of stews, soups and curries (or on the barbecue, if that’s the way … Read more
In 2019, I was cycling to work, training at a boxing gym, playing basketball and doing yoga (not all at the same time). Then, one day, I picked up a box. It was bulky but not particularly heavy. I felt a twinge in my back, but thought nothing of it. I played basketball that evening … Read more
Think about the finances of others … Income disparity in friendships can sometimes lead to conflict. A study published last year by a US financial services company, Bread Financial, found 26% of people felt they were “financially incompatible” with their friends, while 21% said they had lost a friendship because of money. According to Talia … Read more
Time was, the ultimate honour for any ambitious chef was to gain a Michelin star or two. Better still, three. But these days, the world of fine dining is in a state of flux. Far from going to any lengths to schmooze critics or diners, restaurateurs are taking them on, from publicly berating customers who … Read more
People are drawn to train as social workers for a range of reasons – professional, personal and a desire to make a difference. Once qualified, having opportunities to continue to learn and train are an integral part of the job. This training and career support is something Essex County Council has been focusing on, says … Read more
Potatoes are a staple of the British diet. However, they have gained a bad reputation, with concerns about them spiking our blood sugar levels – which, if repeated over time, can increase the risk of diabetes. “It depends on the type of potato and how you prepare it,” says Dr Christine Bosch, from Leeds University’s … Read more
England Bournemouth Beach Lodges, Dorset It’s unusual to find a beach hut that you can sleep in overnight, so these small but beautifully designed lodges are understandably in demand. Positioned directly overlooking the quieter end of Bournemouth’s long, sandy beach, the miniature seaside boltholes combine white clapboard walls and nautical stripes with mod cons such … Read more
I was temporarily living in my home town of Wangaratta while caring for my grandmother, who had dementia. I got weekends off and on one of those occasions I met a girl called Marie. During that lovely early period of a new relationship where you’re still getting to know each other, I took her camping … Read more