Everything that starts with M ...

Please note that all names in the following piece have been changed in order to protect the innocent. THE SCENE SETTER Thanks to a kind reader here on Ciao, I was reminded to update my last “employment” review – that being the case of Mr Indispensable, going by the very, at the time, apt title of “Pistols at Dawn”. Happily, just for once, eventually the cloud with the silver lining landed over RICHADA Enterprises and a man more suited for the job than could ever have been imagined, dropped from it. In that particular review I challenged you, dear readers, to twist my arm into divulging the ... more

As those who check my reviews out from time to time or have my in the COT will know I tragically lost my mother on 8 November. She was 75 which is not particularly old these days and had, until very recently indeed, been very healthy and led an active life. This made her very sudden demise and passing all the more terrible shock for my family. I am touched by many lovely messages people have left me on Ciao and the enquiries of how I am and how the funeral was. Rather than reply to everyone in any detail I thought I would write something here as a tribute to my mother who made me who I am. My ... more

Menopause What is and what does it mean to people? I believe that's a good question to ask, but can't answer for anyone other than myself. What it is (according to the experts) is something that women will go through when they reach a certain age (some will start younger than others; some will have hardly any symptoms, while others will have loads). The only thing I can tell you is that it is currently the bane of my life and I can't wait until it is all over (sadly it has only just begun). As I have said above, I can't speak for any woman other than myself, but I'm amazed at how many ... more

Introduction I had a fantastic trip to the Maasai Mara market and village during my week long safari in Kenya, East Africa, and wanted to share my experience with you. I have travelled quite widely, and feel it is very important to experience different cultures. I have always been fascinated by the African tribe of the Maasai, and watched many documentaries on them, noticing their brightly coloured beads and dress (probably something that most associate with the Maasai) and so I was very keen to visit a Maasai settlement and had spoken to my husband before we set off for safari to make sure ... more

M is for….Miso For a number of years now I have been a huge fan, or perhaps "addict" is more accurate, of Japanese food. The attractions for me are numerous: there are great health benefits to be had from a diet which is high in carbohydrates and fibre but low in fat and processed sugars. Skillfully presented, Japanese cuisine is a delight to look at and features as many colours and designs as you would find on an artists palette. Then there is the taste: everything from salty, barbecued meat through to subtle and delicate sashimi (raw fish), tangy tsukemono (pickles) and warming noodle dishes ... more