Driving is a skill that can take years to properly build – but it’s also one that can fall into disrepair if neglected This is something that 49-year-old Jane knows only too well. During lockdown she decided to ditch driving. She wasn’t going into the office and couldn’t go out much. So she got rid of her car and walked or used public transport. This was all fine until she landed a promotion which meant travelling to different office locations around the UK. She said getting back into driving really wasn’t like ‘riding a bike.’ It was uncomfortable and a bit weird. “It was like I’d stopped d ..read more

You may have heard about this from an overexcited Davina already… ITV are now actively looking for contestants for the Romance Retreat (working title) – tipped as the Love Island for older people. And look out, because your over-18 kids can nominate you ITV announced yesterday that TV icon Davina McCall will host brand new dating show the Romance Retreat, which is set to open the nation’s hearts to a whole new world of ‘grown-up love’. In case you didn’t see Davina breaking the news… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Davina McCall (@davinamccall) Apparently the big shout is fo ..read more

Looking to add more value to your home, or fancy giving it a springtime facelift? Feeling like a spring clean, or a way to revamp your living space? Maybe you’re considering selling – it’s the right time of year for that too. Here are five home improvements that you can do on a budget. Utilise the spare room Now’s the time to allow your spare room (or indeed any area of redundant space) to achieve its full potential. Turn this space into something useful by assessing your current lifestyle. Could it be used as an office space or a spare bedroom, for example? Creating a home office will provide ..read more

Lucy Allen managed to bag backstage chats at the Oscars with Michelle Yeoh, Brendan Fraser, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Ke Huy Quan In case you hadn’t noticed, the 95th Academy Awards has caused quite the stir. Not Will Smith level, obviously. But this year was not without drama; one suspects that with actors, this comes with the territory. It’s a shame to see Angela Bassett miss out again, but we’re thrilled for Jamie Lee Curtis, 64. Brendan Fraser, 54, is having the season of HIS ACTUAL LIFE. And Ke Huy Quan, 51, was probably the most excited winner we’ve ever seen.  I don’t normally add ages ..read more

Browse our Mother’s Day gift guide for ideas and inspiration this coming Mothering Sunday Whatever age your mother, there’s always going to be something she’d love to have on Mother’s Day. Even if it’s just a visit and a bunch of daffs. But if you’re planning to splurge a bit more, here’s a little Mother’s Day gift guide to give you some ideas… Beauty Yves Saint Laurent Opium Eau De Parfum, Fragrance Direct, £98  Described as a fruity and aromatic fragrance. Carnation, Cinnamon, pepper, Jasmin, Rose and ylang ylang.  Mio Bath Soak Supersize, Mio Skincare, £36 Let her have a persona ..read more

Does it feel like you’ve been together forever, and anniversaries are less important these days? Making sure you you keep marking important dates is a sure-fire way to keep romance alive. Particularly if you feel the romance might not be quite so strong these days. If you’re thinking of planning something unforgettable for your romantic date, and how to celebrate your anniversary, here are a few different thoughts. Show your partner appreciation and celebrate your relationship together. Anniversaries (in all their forms) are an important part of life. These special days remind us of important ..read more

Warm during the days but cold as soon as the sun goes in, how do we hit that sweet spot? As we (thankfully) head into spring and gradually shed the multiple layers we’ve been living under for the better part of four months, many of us will find dressing at this time of year somewhat awkward. How do we make that fashion transition from winter to spring? And as we pack away some of our bulkier items, we might also want to take care of any damage done to our trusty coats and jumpers that have been worn non-stop and braced all kinds of weather conditions. With this in mind, here are a few things t ..read more

Much as you love the little darlings, they can wreak havoc on your house when they come to stay. Be prepared for their arrival Whether it’s your first time having grandchildren stay or you’re a seasoned pro, there are always a few things that will ensure their stay is a success. From childproofing your home to making sure their sleeping arrangements are just right, here are four simple tips for preparing your house for your grandchildren. Childproof your house This means keeping store cupboards locked, tidying away any clutter that could cause accidents and, for younger children, perhaps even ..read more

They’re not just an excuse for high jinks and hilarity. Although admittely, that’s a big part of it Best friend holidays can relieve stress, and create happiness, and deeper friendship bonds. Here are all the reasons you need to book one, right now…. I mean, I’m knackered. I’ve got two kids, a full-time job, and a bouncing fluffball of a puppy running me ragged with all the walking, weeing, and sweeping-up of chewed things.  Disappointingly, I don’t appear to have reached the age of 52 with any absorbing extra-curricular skill or hobby, unless you call collapsing into bed at 9pm and watch ..read more

With a survey showing that 7 in 10 women blame menopause for their relationship breakdown, it’s good to be prepared for the changes coming… Thanks to a more open dialogue around the menopause, there is now far greater awareness about the symptoms of menopause in women. But it’s becoming increasingly apparent that it affects more than just the physical. It seems that menopause might spell the end of your relationship. It’s estimated that a third of the entire UK female population are currently menopausal, which equates to around 13 million people. Right here, right now. For the majority of wome ..read more