vida magazine january 2013 - issue 37

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Look and feel greatBeauty experts share their knowledge

- page 12

Monochrome chicMalta memoirs Pint-sized politicians Healthy breakfasts

JEWELLERY, BEAUTY TREATMENTS,

A MEAL VOUCHER& MORE

WIN!

Join the mission:Discover how personal trainer Richard Geres can make you lose 8-20kg in just 10 weeks- page 18

I resolve toYour New Years resolutions- page 8

& BeautHealth

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January 2013 Issue 37 vida.com.mt 1

editorial

Issue 37 - January 2013VIDA Magazine is a monthly lifestyle magazine distributed to households in Malta and Gozo. It aims to empower the people to lead a better, healthier and happier life.

Publisher

Focused Knowledge LtdPitkali Road, Attard ATD 2214Malta, Europe

Tel: (+356) 2339 2403Fax: (+356) 2141 9089

EditorSarah [email protected]

Layout & DesignAlexia BaldacchinoKevin [email protected]

AdvertisingTel: (+356) 2339 [email protected]

It is understood that all material supplied by agents (printed or otherwise) to promote their products is supplied with all necessary permissions for reproduction. Whilst great care and attention has been taken by the editorial team to ensure accuracy of text, advertising and other published matter, we disclaim all responsibility for any omissions and errors. The editor and publisher do not necessarily agree with views expressed in articles, adverts, letters, or other content appearing in this publication.

Distributed by

Much the same as many other people at the start of a new year, I find myself tempted to turn over a new leaf, make a few promises and attempt to stick to a few resolutions. In the distant past, I am guilty of having made half-hearted resolutions to do with losing weight and doing away with bad habits and I'm not the only one, Im sure. A few years ago though, I decided to abandon these superficial promises in favour of a more meaningful kind of self-betterment one I have strove to adopt and will continue to do my best to stick to in this coming year.

My New Years resolution this year is the same as that of the previous few to be positive. I believe that given the effort, you can choose whether to be an optimist or a pessimist, and I have firmly chosen the former. By being optimistic, I dont mean being overtly cheerful and bubbly all the time. On the contrary, those are traits I have to admit I find somewhat annoying. The positivity Im talking about is characterized by being thankful for who you are and what you have, valuing friends and family, and doing your best to approach every situation with a level head and a good attitude.

VIDAs first 2013 issue comes in the form of our health & beauty special. Packed with tips from the professionals on how you can better yourself this year, the January issue also features interviews with a few interesting personalities, a fond look into Maltas past, a monochromatic fashion story and much more besides. Heres to starting your year off right!

Enjoy the issue.

Sarah Micallef

VIDA next month Love special

vida.com.mt

facebook.com/VidaMag

vida.com.mt Issue 37 January 20132

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ContentsMan flu 7

This time itll be different 8

Start your day right 10

Looking your best for the New Year 12

Cultivating professionals 14

Those who think they have no time for exercise, will sooner or later have to find time for illness

16

Mission to crack down on obesity 18

Lose weight the right way 20

Supporting sport 21

Treasured memories 24

My thing 28

Street style 30

Dont lose your head in the sales 32

Every car lovers American dream 40

Street photography 42

Murder in the prison 44

Hard-headed politicians 45

Is your cat fat? 48

Buying your first property 50

Raising children with a disability and their siblings

51

2013: The year ahead 52

January at the Movies 54

Its all happening 56

Events this month 58

Mattia Preti: Celebrating a genius 60

Deep flavour 61

Healthy New Year's resolutions for kids 64

UpdatesLetters 4

Not for ProfitDogsTrust

Keeping it ShortShasha Fabri

6

We would like to

thank you for your support

throughoutanother

successful year

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My thing: Where objects do the talking

- page 14

Tips on dealing with change

- page 26

Carisma Spa Wellness InternationalWith the only Hammam in Malta- page 47

z FashionFormula 1 Eastern delightsNew columnist

DIY

Financial advice

Classifieds

& more

COMPETITION

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A MEAL FOR TWO,BEAUTY

TREATMENTS,EVENT TICKETS

& MORE

WIN!

Light up your motoring life

- page 20

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The benefits of studying abroad

- page 26

Murder in Malta

The first instalment

as chronicled by Edward Attard

- page 38

Compagnia Nazionale Raffaele Paganini Performing An American in Paris at the MCC on May 4th and 5th - page 13

Cruise specialist Interior design Historical tragediesPhotography

Dining out

Financial advice

Classifieds

& more

COMPETITION

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A MEAL FOR TWO,BEAUTY

TREATMENTS, & MORE

WIN!

Around the world in four yearsThe life of an air steward - page 24

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Loving lunchtime: More than just a salumeria- page 50

Valentines fun for singletons - page 15

New ways to celebrate the holiday of love- page 16

Courtship by correspondenceA real life love story- page 18

A local productionThe iconic van PhotographySale shopping

Recipes

Financial advice

Classifieds

& more

COMPETITION

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A MEAL FOR TWO,

BEAUTY TREATMENTS

& MORE

WIN!

years of

May

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Mothers Day messagesMessages of love and

thanks from you!- page 10

My thing

A family heirloom with

a difference - page 28

Perfect pastels Spring fashions candy colours - page 34

Green fingers Beating bullying Talking photosProduct designer

A SECURITY SYSTEM,BEAUTY TREATMENTS

EVENT TICKETS,& MORE

WIN!

Hello, world Are podcasts the new medium of choice? - page 26

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Nelly Furtado

The singer looks forward to performing in Malta

- page 20

The Peugeot 208 A true generation leap

- page 41

A famous face Celebrating excellence Summer activitesMarine fashion

A SECURITY SYSTEM, EVENT TICKETS,

BEAUTY TREATMENTS & MORE

WIN!

If you cant stand the heat...A rescue officers story - page 14

Rosie reviewsOff to a spicy start - page 47

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The perfect balance

Working mothers share their experiences- page 20

Deadly duelThis months instalment of Murder in Malta

- page 40

Outdoor living Antique maps Shoreside eatsTribal trends

2 TICKETS TO THE BIGGEST ROCK

CONCERT OF THE SUMMER

- page 47

WIN!

SmokieLive in concert at Gaxaq Groundson August 7th - free entrance- page 27

More than holiday snapsTravel photography tips - page 30

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A moment in the life A story by Tim A. Montalto- page 18

Making a differenceFacts about foster care- page 47

Print perfection Where time stood still Latest releasesA local talent

EVENT TICKETS, BEAUTY TREATMENTS,

A SECURITY SYSTEM & MORE

WIN!

Antonello Vendit ti Unica Tour 2012 Malta

Special guests: Winter Moods- page 52

Entertainment and nightlife trends

What do you do for fun?- page 14

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Alternative shopping Theres more to London than Oxford Street- page 26

Jewellery designer Making a difference Menswear trendsSpecial report

DANCE SESSIONS, BEAUTY TREATMENTS,


WIN!

Meet Martine Face of Malta 2012 winner- page 7

Back to school Three families give their views- page 8

Fashion

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Chefs for charityThe story behind Tisjir mill-Qalb

- page 28

Home decorating Country style Capital of cultureTravel photography

SIGNED BOOKS, BEAUTY TREATMENTS,


WIN!

Yada Dance Rush October 26th, 27th and 28th and November 4th at the MCC, Valletta - page 55

Prepare to sellThe estate agents tips on

how to sell your property fast- page 14

specialHomes

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Does crime pay?When minor crimes go unpunished

- page 27

Young designer Wedding guide Latest releasesCelestial maps

A MEAL FOR TWO, BEAUTY TREATMENTS, A SECURITY SYSTEM &

MORE

WIN!

175 years of inspirationCaffe Cordina celebrates its anniversary

- page 21

Eventful I dosWhat you remember most about

your wedding- page 12

Weddings special

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A day like all othersMeet the people who work on Christmas day

- page 22

Belle of the ballIn perfect harmony Gift guide A devoted collector

JEWELLERY, BEAUTY TREATMENTS, A

SECURITY SYSTEM & MORE

WIN!

Bay Music Awards 2012 LiveParty like its the end on December 12th- page 54

Christmas disastersYour tales of seasonal woe- page 24


letters

Throughout the past months, VIDA and Unitech gave one lucky Star Letter writer the chance to win a full Intruder Alarm System*. The competition ran from May to December, with the writers of the letters chosen as a Star Letter from each issue entering a draw to win. VIDA is proud to announce that the overall winner is Petra Bonello! Petra, whose letter appeared on issue 34, wrote about her love of pets and urged readers to consider adopting strays from sanctuaries.

STAR LETTER COMPETITION

For all your security needsT: 77773388 47, Cottoner Avenue, Fgura | [email protected]*Terms and conditions apply.

Whats your idea? What would you recommend? Whats bugging you?Share your views with the nation

Send your letters, questions to the experts and suggestions to The Editor, VIDA Magazine, Pitkali Road, Attard, ATD 2214, or by email on [email protected]

Trade enquiries: MaxiQuartz Spl325, Zabbar Road, FguraT: 2180 6661 7920 7632

Next month's Star Letter Winner will win this

Pierre Lannier watch worth

135

WIN!WINNER

My resolution

Dear Editor,

Being a very impulsive person, I am often advised to think before I act something I resolve to do more of this year.

I know it wont be easy, and I will certainly have some trouble keeping to it at times, as I already know that there will be times when I will be frustrated by other peoples apathy, lack of co-operation and respect for one another.

Still, my intentions are pure, and I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a prosperous year ahead and may we all live with one commandment gamel lil add ieor dak li tixtieq li jgamlu lilek (Maltese for Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.)

And please, while youre at it, could you please respect the road code too?

J. Cutajar

Dear Editor, Are we really aware of what we have?

I believe that the experiences we go through in life make us who we are, yet I do my best not to let bad experiences change me, except for the better. From the outside I may look weak, but on the inside theres a lion roaring. In this day and age, all everyone seems to want is to take and take, without caring about what anyone else may need. Moreover, if you show yourself to be a positive person, or smile more often than those around you deem it necessary, you get judged but I believe everybody has something to give.

They say you never know what you have until it's gone. This year, Im going to try to make myself realise that every minute counts my family, my wife, my whole life and everything that God has provided me with. Ill try to be strong in the mornings, to wake up and face another day that is still a box to be opened.

My advice for everyone this New Year is to never ever take things for granted.

Paul Darmanin

STAR LETTER

New discoveries

Dear Editor,

Firstly, (and since I am writing!) I would like to thank the VIDA team for the wonderful magazine you produce on a monthly basis. Its one my favourite magazines, and I look forward to reading it every month.

I am writing to congratulate you on the very interesting interview with Paul Pace owner of the Baby Jesus Museum in BKara, which you featured in the December issue. Up until I came across the interview in VIDA, I didnt know about the museum, but now that I do, Im planning to pay it a visit with my children what a lovely Christmas outing. Thank you VIDA, happy holidays and keep up the good work!

Monica Sant

vida.com.mt | Issue 36 | December 201230 December 2012 | Issue 36 | vida.com.mt 31

cultureculture

A storyof devotionEvery statue has a story, says Paul Pace, owner of the Baby Jesus Museum in BKara, upon my visit. My mother still tells the story of how I was given my first Baby Jesus statue when I was just 6 years old. I was very close to my father, and when he had to go abroad for work, I was very upset and started to cry. To cheer me up, my grandmother gave me a wax statue of Baby Jesus.

He goes on to mention another statue given to him by his beloved father: I came across a shop that was selling Baby Jesus statues, and one particular one caught my eye, but my parents couldnt afford it. A little while later, my father won three liri playing the lotto, and he bought it for me. I still have that statue. From then on, Paul started collecting Baby Jesus statues as a way of showing his devotion.

As his collection grew, Paul began putting his Baby Jesus statues on display in his fathers garage at Christmas time, for people to enjoy. Years went by, and after a period of not putting his beloved statues on display, Paul figured it was a shame that his collection, which had by then grown to around 1,500 statues, was not open to the public, so along with his wife, he decided to set up the Baby Jesus Museum, or Muew tal-Bambini, which was inaugurated on December 6th 2010.

The vast collection of statues displayed within the Baby Jesus Museum are made of many different materials including wax, wood, plaster, terracotta, glass and clay, but one that Paul points out in particular comprises a very unusual element. As he shows me a sleeping Baby Jesus encased in what appears to be a perspex case, he explains that the material of the case is actually recycled from a WWII plane, and the engraved floral design on it was carved by German prisoners of war as a way of passing the time.

His favourite story however is tied to the Baby Jesus known as Il-Bambin ta Araeli. The story goes that this particular statue belonged to some priests who took it along on a sea voyage. However, their boat got shipwrecked, and they lost everything that was on it or so they thought. As the priests swam to shore, Paul recounts, they found the statue of the Baby Jesus waiting for them on the beach. It was considered a miracle, and replicas of that statue began being made.

My own favourite statues within the museum are the older varieties comprising embroidered garments and decorated with ganutell, some of which dating back hundreds of years. Paul smiles as he explains that the ones with the most sentimental value to him are a pair he had made using the hair of his own two daughters for the babies hair. Another statue Paul and his wife hold dear is one that used to belong to San Gorg Preca, which was given to them after the member of the Society of Christian Doctrine that San Gorg had originally given it to had passed away.

When asked where he gets the statues from, Paul maintains that theyre from all sorts of places. From an old radio show entitled Min Ipartat U Min ibiegh (a show in which people sell or exchange items) and auctions to travels in various countries, Paul and his wife are always on the look out for new additions, and even receive tips from people who have seen a statue they think they might like. Weve most recently been to Prague, he maintains, and brought back another 42 statues!

by Sarah Micallef

The Baby Jesus Museum is open all year round by appointment and on a fixed schedule during the Christmas period. To make an appointment, contact the Pace family on 21492111 or [email protected].

"I was given my first Baby Jesus statue when I was just 6 years old"

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updates

My childhood dream was to become a dancer or circus performer.

When I was born my brother lost one of his shoes at the hospital in all the excitement.

Beauty is everything.

Working as a makeup artist is my gold mine.

It all started 21 years ago at the Body Shop.

The best thing about my job is that its versatile. Its never the same and I love meeting new people and going to new places.

I first got involved with fashion and beauty when I unexpectedly ended up doing Latoya Jacksons makeup.

My proudest moment in my career is every minute. I love to make people feel good.

My proudest life moment was when I had my baby boy.

Shasha is crazy and fun.

Not many people know that I used to play with a band in the village feast.

I never go anywhere without my mascara.

I always try to keep up with my schedule.

I will never live without my son

Life is full of surprises.

2013 will be a better, more positive year.

My New Years resolution is to find more time for myself.

I love socialising, eating and drinking. I love the good life.

I hate doing nothing.

The best thing in life is health. After going through the things I have gone through, I no longer think money is as important.

I would like the future to be calmer, with less panic.

In the end, all that matters is that as a single parent, I keep being strong for my son.

Shasha Fabri

Keeping it short

Man flu

Dogs Trust MaltaNot for

profit

Maltese voluntary organisations

W: www.dogstrustmalta.comT: 777 111 00 or 21421500E: [email protected]

Know of a local voluntary organisation that could use the recognition? Contact the editor on [email protected]

It all began in 2009, when Dogs Trust Malta was launched to work together with SPCA on a nationwide neutering and education strategy aimed at reducing the number of stray and unwanted dogs across Malta and Gozo, and improving the status of companion animals on the islands.

Our mission is to create a greater sense of responsibility among pet owners and local authorities whilst giving practical support to owners and local councils. In so doing, we aim to ensure that this sense of responsibility is turned into positive action to help reduce the number of pets that are abonded or, even worse, killed.

We work to foster a good relationship with all sectors of society, so that together we can tackle the challenge of bringing about change and improvement in animal welfare in Malta and Gozo through education on responsible breeding, proper animal care, and reducing the stray population. We hope to bring about the day when all dogs can enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.

We have changed the lives of thousands of dogs in Malta and Gozo by helping owners pay for veterinary treatments and offering free neutering and microchipping for dogs belonging to people receiving social government benefits, farmers, hunters and factory dog owners.

Our greatest achievements are neutering and microchipping 10,000 dogs over the past 3 years. Over 4,300 dogs that were registered were farm dogs, while over 4,500 dogs belonged to people on benefits, with the remaining being hunters' dogs, factory and community dogs, and shelter dogs. All of these dogs were neutered and chipped for free.

Secondly, we have reached just over 28,000 primary and secondary school students with our interactive workshops aimed at raising a generation of responsible dog owners and a happier, healthier future for dogs and society alike.

Our current projects include a nationwide campaign offering free neutering and microchipping to all residents of Malta and Gozo between January and March 2013; educational workshops within local schools and youth organisations to promote responsible pet ownership; and adult education initiatives to promote neutering through talks and participation in local events.


column

Shasha Fabri

Shouting from the Hili Top

Im not feeling well. Im feeling hot, and cold. Ive got a sore throat and my body hurts. Then there are the sneezing fits violent bursts of 20 to 30 sneezes that leave a trail of carnage a sweaty forehead, snot, and bits of tissue stuck to my stubble (How come it grows so fast when Im sick?)

I am suffering in a horrendous way. Just re-read the list above. Go on. I have also got a headache, Im coughing, and I didnt sleep at all last night. Oh, and Ive just sneezed right into my chicken soup. Woe is me!

"Where is your wife whilst you are going through all this?"you may very well ask. Let me tell you the ghastly truth. Brace yourself, for I can hardly believe it myself. Even though I am in this condition, Kat (who took the "in-sickness-and-in-health" vow just in case youre wondering) has not given me a gentle head massage or pulled the blanket up to my chin for over five minutes because (listen to this!) she had to go upstairs and quickly send an important email.

An email! Whilst I writhe in agony in front of my now non-edible soup.

I have already called out to her twice. Once because the face cloth on my head was getting too cold and once because I could not find the remote control. Would you believe that the second time she actually tutted at me!

Its not all her fault you know. (Yes, even in suffering I am magnanimous). I blame popular culture. That YouTube video about the man suffering with man flu has made everyone

chuckle about what big babies men really are in comparison to women, who just get on with it, sick or not.

What women do not seem to understand is that men do not just get colds or the flu. No! What we get is way more serious. It has to be. If it werent then we too would face it down, like heroes. We too would keep calm and carry on!

I am sure that should a scientific researcher put his head around the door at this very moment, he would be shocked at the existence of such an aggressive form of illness. He would call it something like a hyper-mega-cold and be thankful that it attacked someone as brave as me.

"Stop mumbling about hyper-colds and scientific research. And quit whining! I am trying to send an email. Go to sleep and youll feel fine when you wake up," shes just called out. Fine! Ha! I doubt I will ever feel fine again!

It is now later and I have woken up feeling much better. Medicines must be starting to work. Great news! I get up and go to the kitchen, where Kat is making more soup. "Feeling better?" she asks.

"Much." And then in her ear "you know when you went upstairs to send that email? I wasnt feeling too good back then. But I knew you were busy so I tried not to disturb you too much."

She just smiles and wipes the tissue off my stubble.

You may have seen him on stage, heard him on

the radio, or laughed at his lack

of colour-coordination (hes the one walking down the street with the orange shorts and pink shirt). He is loud, hairy, controversial and well different! He is Steve Hili and he is writing for VIDA.

Man flu

For more Steve, tune in to the BIG Breakfast on XFM 100.2 on Monday to Friday from 06:30 onwards or follow him on Twitter @SteveHili.


voxpop

Every year, the promise of new beginnings has us making New Years resolutions with the best intentions. VIDA takes to the streets to ask you what the secret to sticking to them is, if there is one!

Darren Frendo, 32This year, I resolve to quit smoking.Past resolutions were to stop going out on Fridays, and I did.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is just will power.

Joanna Parnis, 36This year, I resolve to possibly shop less.I dont have past resolutions because I dont think its necessary to start a resolution on a New Year.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is in my case, to avoid shops!

Roberta Preca, 28This year, I resolve to have some more leisure time, go shopping time for myself. Also, since I am a chef, I want to spoil more clients with the food I cook.Past resolutions were to keep a regular diet and eat less chocolate, though I never managed.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is to be focused on the target and think of the positive end result.

Joanne Agius, 43This year, I resolve to try to stay home a bit more, especially in the weekends in order to save up.Past resolutions were to reduce eating chocolates, and I did.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is at least in my case, to stop buying chocolate for home. I would say that staying away from what you wish to quit helps, but most of all it is simply will power.

This time itll be different


voxpop

Roderick Saliba, 24This year, I resolve to work harder to achieve personal targets.Past resolutions were to quit smoking, and I did.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is determination. In my case, I started a sport, which helped me to focus more on quitting. Besides, I had lots of support from my family and friends.

Emma Borg, 38This year, I resolve to quit smoking.Past resolutions were to lose weight, but I never manage.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is in my case to have my mouth sewn shut!

Christina Coimbra, 22Im not sure whether Ill be making any resolutions because I havent thought about it yet.Past resolutions were to stop biting my nails. I did so, four years ago.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is looking at methods that would help you succeed in my case, it was the application of false nails in the beginning. I believed in myself and thought of how much I really wanted to grow my own nails.

Maria Mallia, 29This year, I resolve to stop chewing gum!Past resolutions were to lose some weight, and I managed.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is lots of will power!

Adam Mc Lean, 28I will not be making a resolution because I dont think it has to be New Year to make a change for the better. Past resolutions were the usual things, eating more healthily and exercising more, but it never works out!The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is getting the timing right and just going for it.

Alex Bugeja, 38This year, I resolve to stop making resolutions.Past resolutions were always the same to eat healthily, but I never kept to it.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is not to make any at all!

Fredrick Bonnici, 35This year, I resolve to quit smoking the same as last year.Past resolutions were also to quit smoking, but I never stick to it.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is no secret really, just will power.

Pauline Grixti, 53I will not be making a resolution because I always break them.Past resolutions were to watch my diet but I never managed.The secret to sticking to New Years resolutions is all in the mind.


eating & drinking

Start your day right

Smoothies are quick and easy to make, as well as being healthy and tasty to boot. Try this breakfast variant for a fresh and fruity start to your day.

This healthier version of scrambled eggs uses no milk or butter, and can be served with whole meal bread for an extra fibre kick or on an English crumpet as a special treat.

Strawberry oatmeal smoothie (Serves 2)

Preparation

Combine milk, oats, banana and strawberries in a blender. Add vanilla and sugar to taste. Blend together until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve.

Preparation

Scramble the eggs without butter or milk. Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes and torn fresh basil. Serve atop whole meal bread or toasted crumpet halves.

Ingredients

1 cup milk cup rolled oats 1 banana, broken into chunks 14 frozen strawberries teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoons white sugar

Ingredients

2 eggs sundried tomatoes fresh basil, torn crumpets

Scrambled eggs on crumpets (Serves 1)


eating & drinking

Weve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but all too often, a lack of time and variety has us guzzling a quick bowl of cereal before rushing off, that is, if we dont skip it entirely. Mindful of healthier options, VIDA brings you a fresh host of breakfast ideas why not try one of these tasty treats to kick start your day? Theyre certainly a step up from bland toast and soggy cereal!

This sweet breakfast idea is a little moreish so might be best saved for weekends if youre counting calories. The combination of nuts, fruit and rich cocoa still have loads of health benefits though, so dont feel too bad!

Preparation

Bring the almond milk, 1 cups of water, the diced bananas, almond and vanilla extracts and pinch of salt to the boil in a large saucepan.

Stir in the oats, cocoa powder and half the honey and reduce the heat to medium. Cook, stirring frequently, until the oats are cooked to desired consistency, about 6 minutes.

Transfer to bowls, top with sliced bananas, walnuts, the remaining honey, cinnamon and chocolate chips and serve.

Ingredients

2 cups plain almond milk 2 large bananas (1 diced and thinly sliced) teaspoon almond extract teaspoon vanilla extract salt 2 cups rolled oats 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tbsp honey cup toasted and chopped walnuts Pinch ground cinnamon 2 tbsp semisweet chocolate chips

Chocolate banana oatmeal (Serves 4)

Traditional ingredients to go on toast can get old after a while, so why not try this tasty variant? Its not only nutritionally balanced but also oh-so-tasty!

Ingredients

2 slices brown bread 1 small banana tsp cinnamon 1 tbsp crunchy peanut butter

Preparation

Toast bread slices and chop the banana. Layer banana on one slice of toast and dust with cinnamon. Spread the accompanying slice with peanut butter, then sandwich the two together and voila! You can also top with some honey for an extra treat.

Peanut butter and banana toast (Serves 1)


health & beauty

Looking your best for the

New YearThe festive season can take its toll on our appearance, and whereas the main focus is often on shedding those few extra kilos weve gained, paying attention to other features like our hair, face and hands can make us look and feel instantly better. Here, VIDA rounds up a dream team of beauty professionals who give their advice on how you can look great in 2013.

Lara Steer is the hairstylist for VIDA and Pink magazine and part owner of dSalon. Having won the Best Hairstylist Award at the Malta Fashion Awards, and been to New York and Berlin to represent Malta for Wella at the International Wella Awards, Lara brings her experience to VIDA to give you tips on caring for your hair.

If our hair doesnt look good, we dont look good, and as a result we dont feel good. Clients often tell me, If my hair isnt done... nothing seems right! This proves how important it is to care for your hair. Here are some of my top tips to make your hair look and feel great:

1. Ask your hairstylist to recommend the right professional products for your hair. Buy a good shampoo and a hair mask. Like your skin, your hair needs to be cleansed and treated to look its best. Get into the habit of enjoying a salon treatment designed specifically for your hair type. Those who heat style their hair regularly should do this at least once every two weeks to infuse moisture and strength.

2. Avoid using too much heat on your hair and get a Brazilian treatment. If youre one of many Maltese women with dry, coarse hair that requires heat to style, getting a Brazilian treatment only takes around an hour and you'll enjoy the smooth hydrated effect for around four months. A Brazilian treatment smoothens out, de-frizzes and hydrates your hair as well as builds up hair strength, boosts shine and gives it a silky texture.

3. If you hate your big hair, dont suffer in silence. Get a thermal straightening system done and you wont believe your eyes it will be transformed into the wash-and-go silky smooth straight hair of your dreams. This treatment takes three to four hours but you can enjoy the results permanently.

4. Book a colour appointment at a professional salon at least every two months. Dont be afraid of a subtle change every now and then youll be surprised how good it will make you feel. This seasons top hair colours are rich auburns and vibrant copper shades, which really suit paler complexions. Alternatively, ask for a dip dye or soft caramel ombre that is fashionable and fun. A few lowlights can also dazzle your colour and enhance your eyes!

5. If you love long hair, you need to have it trimmed at least every three months for it to grow strong. Having said that, the current fashionable hair length is a flirty versatile midlength that can be styled in different ways. If you like to stand out, a textured bob with an undercut is really on trend, or a Vidal Sassoon-style sixties bowl cut in a vibrant colour. A great haircut instantly brings out your features and will have you walking with confidence, so never put your salon visits aside!

hair


health & beauty

Diane Nikolic is one of Maltas leading makeup artists and beauty therapists, working with TV personalities, on fashion shows and shoots, music videos, singers and dancers. Having 25 years of experience within the beauty industry, Diana brings her wealth of knowledge to VIDA, as she shares her top ten beauty tips that will have you facing the New Year looking your very best!

Cherisse Mizzi is a fully qualified VTCT Nail Technician with nine years of experience within the industry, based at The Nail Lounge in Mosta. She offers a wide range of professional nail services such as gel and acrylic extensions, refills, manicures and pedicures among others. With the cold weather in full force, Cherisse shows you how to keep your hands soft this winter.

1. Drink plenty of water and eat your fruit and vegetables; all those vitamins help your skin look and feel better.

2. Using a skincare product containing vitamin A is proven to help slow down the signs of ageing.

3. Use your skin care products every morning and evening. Having them sit on your bathroom shelf looking pretty is not going to give you better skin. Using skincare products containing vitamin A is proven to slow down the signs of aging.

4. Use a good hydrating night mask at least once a week if you have dry skin there are masks you can sleep with nowadays that wont scare anyone at night as they disappear into the skin.

5. Looking good is feeling good, so try to find five minutes a day to put on some makeup. A little mascara, some highlighter under your eyes and lip gloss can make a big difference, and you dont have to be an expert its easy and you can look good in minutes.

6. An orange tinted concealer or foundation can help tone down under-eye dark circles.

7. A thick concealer under the eyes can make fine lines and wrinkles more prominent, so use a highlighter or illuminator. They are light in texture and do not create creasing, plus they also contain special particles that attract light, thus giving you a bright and fresh natural look.

8. Avoid using lots of powder on dry mature skin this tends to make wrinkles look deeper.

9. Avoid purple or brown lipstick if you have olive skin, as they can make you look drawn, tired and lifeless. Instead, use pink tones or bright colors to give your skin a more radiant glow.

10. Eyebrow shaping is essential. A bad eyebrow shape can change your expression and make you look less attractive. Nowadays you can find eyebrow experts who will shape your eyebrows accordingly and can bring out the best shape for your face.

Hands are often one of the neglected body parts of our usual beauty regime. We give importance to our face, eyes, lips and even eyebrows, but not hands. It's generally believed that hands are meant for hard work and are not to be pampered. Whereas it is true that hard work is essential, that doesn't mean that we shouldnt take care of our hands.

Beautiful, smooth and supple hands not only add to overall beauty but are also an indicator of general health and hygiene. Constant neglect and pollution do take their toll on hands, and as a result they can become rough and flaky, losing all their moisture. One way of preventing this and taking care of our hands is to give them a paraffin treatment.

One marked property of paraffin wax is that it is capable of holding on to heat for a long time. It uses this property to improve blood circulation within both the muscles and the skin of the hands, as a result improving the skin tone and relaxing tired and tense muscles.

During the treatment, hands are placed inside a bath of paraffin wax and taken out. The wax turns solid and begins to transfer heat to the hands, rehydrating and moisturising them. It also opens up pores and helps to treat aches and stiffness on the part of the body where it is used. Paraffin hand and nail treatment has proven to be effective for healing stiffness in the joints and pain caused by arthritis, osteoarthritis and bursitis. It can relax tired hands, and is particularly suitable for hands with extremely flaky and dry skin. Even individuals with skin conditions like eczema can benefit immensely from paraffin hand treatment.

face hands


sports

Ray ZazuFarrugia has been playing football since he could walk, and started his football career with the youth team of Floriana at 16. He then received an offer to play with the Melita Eagles in Australia, with which he played from 1978 to 1990 on a professional level.

Before leaving, Ray was honoured by the Australian Prime Minister for his contribution towards sports in Australia, a moment he calls the highlight of his playing career. In talking about his experience with the Melita Eagles, Ray states, I played with a lot of great players, particularly one I really admire Washington Gonzalez. Despite stating his admiration for the players however, Ray maintains that he does not have idols, instead having always believed in working hard to achieve your goals.

Ray mentions that football has also enabled him to meet a lot of interesting people, recalling meeting renowned football manager Sir Alex Ferguson. He invited me to spend 12 days with Manchester United back in the days of David Beckham and Ryan Giggs. He was very down to earth, and I learnt a lot from him particularly that if you want to succeed, sometimes you have to be ruthless.

Besides meeting new people, the sport enables you to travel, broaden your horizons and experience things that you wouldnt

have otherwise experienced, Ray explains. He goes on to mention one particular instance that sticks in his mind. I remember once being in Macedonia with the national team. We stayed at a massive hotel in the capital, Skopje. Two days after we left, I watched that same hotel being bombed on Euronews. Can you imagine the feeling?

After playing for several years, Ray got his coaching badge in Australia. He now coaches Maltas national under-21 football team. When asked whether he prefers coaching or playing, his response comes quickly: Playing. Without any doubt. Being a professional football player, you wake up, breakfast, and go to training. The sessions are prepared for you, the kit is prepared for you everything is ready. Besides, if you dont perform well for a few games you sit on the bench. If a coach doesnt perform well for a few games he gets the sack!

Cultivating professionalsSarah Micallef chats with ex-professional football player and current coach of the national U-21 team Ray Zazu Farrugia and finds out just how much passion and dedication it takes to make it big a concept he strives to instill in his team as well as the youngsters that attend Zazu Football School.

"We stayed at amassive hotel in the capital, Skopje.

Two days after we left, I watched that same hotel being bombed on

Euronews."


sports

Rays goal for the U-21 national team is to win points. Since Malta has started competing in European competitions, it is very rare that we get points. Fortunately, for the three campaigns that Ive been coach, the points have increased. In the first edition we got three points, moving up to five points in the second and again in the third.

When asked what he thinks Maltese players could do to better their results internationally, Ray is adamant. Maltese football players need to change their mentality if they want to be more successful. We are not disciplined or ready to make sacrifices. Being a small country can work against us too everyone goes through the week looking forward to going to Paceville on Friday and Saturday. If you want to be successful, you need to give up these things. You need to work hard, and if you play one good game, it doesnt mean that youve achieved your goal.

As conversation turns to Zazu Football School, Ray tells me that he always wanted to contribute something towards football in Malta. The idea to start the school came about eight years ago, and Ray decided to call it after his nickname one that belonged to his grandfather before him. The school caters for boys and girls between the ages of five and 12. Weve taken the kids on three trips to Manchester since, where they played against Manchester United and trained with their coaches. Ive also taken some coaches to Liverpool Academy.

When asked what it takes to make a great football player, Ray asserts that it is all about the willingness to learn. You have to be willing to listen and learn everyday. You have to be respectful without respect, you are nothing. Im met with a laugh when I then ask what it takes to make a great coach. Results! jokes Ray, going on to state, more seriously, A

good coach is one who works well with the players, has good communication skills and is willing to take responsibility for the team, no matter whether the result is good or bad.

Whilst expressing his wish to see Zazu Football School which is the longest running football school in Malta and has seen students, both boys and girls, go on to play with the national teams continue to do well, Rays ultimate dream is that one day he will see Malta be respected in the football world. At the moment, he explains, we are at a low level, but I know, because Ive seen it with my own eyes, that there is a lot of talent on this island.

A good coach is one who works well with the players, has good

communication skills and is willing to take responsibility for the team, no

matter whether the result isgood or bad.


health

How often has your doctor recommended you increase the amount of exercise in your daily routine? How often do you lie to yourself that you dont have time for it? Despite this, the evidence on the positive benefits of exercise is overwhelming.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that adults should be active for 150 minutes per week, yet a vast majority of adults are way below this benchmark. Exercise is not about achieving the ideal body weight, but rather about being physically active. A person of an ideal weight who is physically inactive is less healthy when compared to an overweight person who is physically active.

This means that an exercise prescription is the best medicine a doctor can give you. Regular exercise helps protect the body from heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, back pain, and can also improve your mood and help you to better manage stress. There is no known magic pill that provides all these benefits in one! Besides, the bonus is that exercise is free and can be practiced by anyone, anywhere! This also includes people with a disability in wheelchairs, the frail elderly and the bedbound, although the exercise prescription would have to be tailored for the individual.

The cost of inactivity is high. Inactivity tends to cause weight gain, loss of muscle and bone strength and decreased cardiac fitness. This will result in a person having to stop to catch his

or her breath after minimal exertion, or else not being strong enough to lift, push or pull during activities we encounter on a daily basis. This occurs in relation to simple everyday things, such as carrying a shopping bag, climbing a flight of stairs, walking uphill or even simply on flat ground. Would it not be easier to dedicate 30 minutes a day to focusing on physical activity instead? The benefit of increased fitness and muscular strength will then enable you to get through everyday activities in a more efficient and comfortable manner, without feeling worn out half way through.

Exercise will reduce the cost of buying medicines, buying new clothes because the old ones dont fit any longer, repeated doctors visits, (which can be costly and timely), and even fuel costs as some errands can be done on foot or by bike.

Now if you are convinced about the benefits of exercise, the most frequent question encountered is how do I know what to do? A sports doctor is able to provide a tailor made exercise prescription where the FITT principle is applied, whilst keeping in mind any illness, muscular deficiencies and joint or back problems that are present but more on that in VIDAs next issue!

by Dr Danica Bonello SpiteriMD MRCP (UK) MSc (Sports & Exercise Med, Bath)Specialist Registrar in Sports & Exercise Medicine, Leeds, UK

Those who think they have no time for exercise, will sooner or later have to find time for illness

Edward Stanley


health

The Maltese are getting heavier, year after year. Recent statistics issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) show that as much as 73% of Maltese males, or three out of four Maltese men, and 53% of Maltese women, or more than half of all women are either overweight or obese.

One mistake many people seem to make is that of treating obesity purely as an aesthetic problem. Perhaps their clothes dont fit as well as they did, or perhaps their figure is not quite beach-ready.

The repercussions of carrying excess fat however are far more serious. Countless research studies clearly demonstrate that being overweight or obese dramatically increases the risk of heart disease, metabolic diseases and even certain types of cancer. Visceral fat, or fat carried in the abdominal area, can lead to fat accumulation around vital organs like the liver, kidneys and heart, impairing functionality and increasing the risk of atherosclerosis (the narrowing of arteries) that can ultimately lead to heart attacks and stroke.

The reasons for the increase in obesity are numerous, however after having personally interviewed and worked with 4,000 Maltese clients over the last few

years, Richard has identified factors that seem to be common among many Maltese people:

Insufficient food during the day, excessive food in the evening Too much bread, pasta and other refined carbohydrates in their diets Excessive sweets, chocolates, biscuits and other sugar-rich food and drink Excessive portion sizes Constant yoyo dieting Emotional overeating or stress-related nibbling No physical exercise whatsoever

The good news is that these causes of excess weight can all be corrected, simply by implementing a few smart changes in your lifestyle. Richard explains "The only effective programme to burn fat and keep it off is to embark on a combination of better eating and exercise." To make

this easy for you, Richard offers an educational programme on how to improve your eating habits, providing delicious meal plan examples and a simple exercise programme that you can carry out at home or outside.

For many people, time is an issue, so being able to exercise from home allows them to squeeze in 30-45 minutes without having to waste time travelling to a gym and leaving the kids alone. In just 10 weeks, people can usually expect to lose between 8-12kg, but achievements of up to 20kg are not uncommon. This programme will not only transform your body but will also provide an educational experience that will help you stay slim and healthy for many years to come!

Anyone can follow this programme all you need is the willingness to change.

The next Challenge starts on February 3rd 2013. For more information and to apply visit www.weightlossmalta.com orcall 27 877 445.

The best male and female performance will be rewarded with a 500 voucher from Eurosport!

Personal trainer and weight-loss expert Richard Geres is on a mission to make Maltese people slimmer and healthier.

Mission to crack down on obesity

Angele Enriquez, dropped from a size 20 to size 12

The food was good, tasty, easy to prepare, filling and satisfying.

With this programme I have changed my lifestyle completely

and I have continued to lose weight even after the challenge

without any special effort!Angele Enriquez.


health

Getting rid of excess body fat is not as simple as one may think; particularly considering that food tastes good, which means that sometimes we cannot refrain from overeating. This extra food consumption however, quickly becomes evident from our protruding bellies!

Embarking on an exercise programme that is solely made up of sit-ups however will not get your abdominals showing once again. No matter how many crunches you do, it will only result in a vain attempt at getting rid of that extra flab.

A combined set of cardio exercise together with strength training workouts is the way to go to gradually burn excessive fat, along with a healthy diet and balanced nutrition, which is a must in accompanying fat-burning exercises.

It is imperative to keep in mind that your abs are a muscle, and like every muscle in the human body it has to be gradually exercised, so it is best to increase the intensity of your workouts progressively. Trying to get results in a short time frame will most certainly lead you to overtraining and increase the chance of you giving up on your training at an early stage.

The ideal amount of exercise should not exceed a one-hour session, three to four days a week with resting intervals, thus allowing the muscle to regenerate itself again. With this exercise routine, you will be working towards a stronger and leaner midsection and get the added benefit of exercising your pelvic area, arms, chest, legs and calves, which also leads to fat loss.

by Health Pit Operations Ltd

Lose weight the right way


people

Adele explains that she has worked in a variety of sports, but the main ones are shooting, sailing, athletics and football. In fact, she has worked with some athletes for the past 10 to 12 years. However, what does the job involve? I help sportspeople improve on their performance through mental factors, dealing with anxiety and pressure, lack of concentration, negative talk and team dynamics, amongst other things, she says.

I also help them in dealing with any other factors in their life that may be inhibiting their performance. So at times I do a lot of counselling too, apart from performance enhancement. As an example, Adele explains that a child may become aggressive whilst playing a sport due to family problems.

The role of a sport psychologist is to conduct research, teach and consult with athletes and teams to develop psychological skills to enhance performance. The role may also include implementing an educational programme, providing consultative services for those who work with athletes and providing crisis intervention services. The sport psychologist must begin by undertaking an analysis of the requirements of the sport, performing an assessment of the athlete, negotiating objectives with the performer, developing performance improvement programmes and providing training in psychological skills.

Sport psychology is not just about teaching mental skills its about understanding the person and how certain situations in their life may be affecting them, says Adele.

I ask Adele whether she faces scepticism when meeting people for the first time. She says that today, this is not the case, since she has worked to create a lot of awareness on the subject. Awareness has increased since there are so many clubs seeking sport psychology sessions these days. Having said this, when I first started out doing this work, some did not believe in it and wouldnt want to be seen in public talking to me because of the stigma, she admits. Fortunately, now it is not a problem at all, athletes who use the services know that they do so because it is an important part of their training.

Adele explains that sport psychology is different from regular psychology in a number of ways. Sport psychology is more focused on results and performance enhancement and thus this can take place within even a session or two at times... Furthermore, sessions with a client are not just held in the clinic but also at the training venue and the field of play.

Supporting sport

For the past 13 years, she has been the Malta Olympic Committees sport psychologist. A year ago, she also took on the role of sport psychologist for the Malta Football Association. She not only works with adults but also children, from beginners to Maltas elite sportspeople and because of her job, she has had the opportunity to attend the worlds largest sports events the Olympics, the Commonwealth Games, as well as the Mediterranean Games and Small Nations Games. Jane Vella meets Adele Muscat, the first sports psychologist in Malta.

Games of Small States 2011

Sport psychology is not just

about teaching mental skills"


people

The role of the sports psychologist has its challenges too, involving travelling to stressful events with the athletes. This can make boundaries harder to keep, she explains. It also involves working in the weekends and at all hours sometimes since this is when competitions take place. Furthermore, you may teach the athlete the skills to use, but it is up to them to practice these skills; some may not be motivated enough to do so. Since it is still difficult to work full time in this area, Adele must manage to juggle her role as sport psychologist with her full time job as Sports Co-ordinator at MCAST.

Adele, like many others who work in the sports industry, believes that the lack of professionalism in sports in Malta is also a problem, with most people who run sport and sporting events in Malta doing it voluntarily. This means they may not have the necessary qualifications. Although it is really great that there are such people who give their time and energy, to improve further we need to seek higher standards, she explains.

Adeles role has given her the opportunity to enjoy once in a lifetime experiences the Olympic Games, travelling abroad, and meeting famous sportspeople. She admits that the most memorable event was her first big event the Commonwealth Games in Manchester, where William Chetcuti won a medal, and also the Small Nations Games 2003 which took place in Malta.

Olympic team 2012

With Welsh football player Ryan Giggs


people

Indeed, her role often intensifies when athletes are preparing for a big event, as they would require more sessions. They start getting anxious, and having more doubts, she explains. You also need to prepare them not just for the competition but for the great number of distractions that will be present in life at the Olympic village... the media, the top athletes all around you, and security.

After 13 years working mostly in Olympic sport, Adele is now shifting more into football, working mainly with the current national under 14 and under 15 teams. This is a project the MFA have undertaken to improve the levels of football in Malta. She also works with a handful of top players.

I am also continuing my studies, currently undertaking a doctorate in football psychology, she says. She is working with the MFA youth teams to help them develop mentally in order to cope better with the game and to help them in their transitions in their careers including adapting to playing abroad. I aim to find out whether the psychological training we are giving them is helping to look into whether the players we have abroad are dealing with the psychological pressures of playing at this level and if we could do more to help them in this area.

"you mayteach the

athlete the skills to use, but it is up to them to practice these

skills"

With world reknown swimmer Ryan Lochte

Adele with one of Malta's National Football teams


special feature

Carole Verity has enjoyed a long career in radio, magazine and newspaper publishing, starting in London before moving on to Scotland. As a child in the early

1960s, she enjoyed a brief stint in Malta, during which she lived with her mother in Floriana. Here, she shares her experiences of a very different island with VIDA,

painting a vivid picture of Malta in the 60s, seen through the eyes of a child.

Treasured memories


special feature

Big news

It was in June 1960 that the first real adventure in my life began moving to a new home. But this wasnt just any house move. It would consist of a journey of some 1,300 miles from London to a small island just 122 square miles, in the Mediterranean.

Malta. The name still evokes fond memories every time I hear it.

Before embarking on the big adventure, I had been to Londons Heathrow airport once before in December 1959, to meet my father as he returned home from Tripoli. Working for an American oil company had taken him to the Sahara desert in Libya, but he was taking a Christmas break as needed to impart some important news. My mother told me that he was coming back with a surprise and, being an eight-year-old child, I thought this was a special Christmas present. I didnt know at the time that this surprise would change my life irrevocably.

When he told us that we would be leaving the South East coast of England to live nearer to Libya, I was shocked. Shocked but excited. I wanted to know more and plagued him with questions. Where were we going? Would it be to the desert? Were there camels?

Always an inquisitive child, when he said that my mother and I would be living in Malta so it would be easier for him to see us, I was intrigued. Where was this place? What was it like? I hastily found an atlas and was shown what seemed like a miniscule dot in the middle of the sea.

The great adventure

Our departure was planned for early summer, and the intervening months seemed to last forever. I used the time to learn all I could about my new home. Once into the departure lounge at Heathrow (little more than what seemed like an enlarged garage but with seats for waiting passengers and a huge weighing scale) the adventure really began. We boarded the plane and after a smooth take off, London was far behind us. My thoughts then turned to my father, who I was looking forward to seeing after six months. I can still recall the feeling of that warm breeze wafting over my skin as I walked down the steps from the BEA Viscount at Luqa airport. It was the first time I had ever left England and I loved the whole experience. I think children must have been something of a novelty to the aircrew back then, as they seemed to take particular care of me, even providing personal updates on where we were throughout the flight. I remember that we had to disembark from the aircraft in Rome for refuelling, as planes couldnt go very far without stopping for fuel in those days!

I always loved Luqa airport, particularly the amazing open-air balcony where the planes could be spotted coming in whilst still small specks in the cloudless blue sky. It was here I waited every month for my fathers arrival from Tripoli and also to greet my grandmother when she made her first flight over to see us. It was on this balcony that my father was waiting when we landed on that beautifully warm June day.

Seaside fancies

During the taxi drive from Luqa to Sliema, where we would be staying until longer-term accommodation was arranged, the sights of the island entranced me. Nothing had prepared me for such contrasting scenery to that of Englands towns and countryside.

Our hotel was located on the front at Sliema, and it wasnt long until I persuaded my parents to take me across the road to the sea. For the next couple of weeks, this became my watery play park. I loved to swim, but my diving had yet to become proficient. The rocks of Sliema beach became my training diving boards and the brilliant blue sea, the likes of which I had never seen before, became my own personal swimming pool.

During our time in Malta, I never tired of Sliema and its rock pools. For a treat, my mother used to take me there to swim, and wed visit an outdoor caf where I used to savour a 7 Up float. We were usually surrounded by the music of the early 60s, which came from a radio inside the caf, to which many staff and customers sang along. It seemed fitting that Oh Carol by Neil Sedaka was very popular, after being the No.1 single in Italy in 1960.


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A more permanent residence

I missed the accessibility of the sea when we moved to Gunlayer Square in Floriana, but there were compensations. The first of which was our neighbours, an American couple, Bill and Donna, with a young son Damian. Bill was an archaeologist who was working on excavations in Malta. Our families became firm friends and we would often squeeze into their VW Blue Beetle a true Herbie

car that could not only be driven down steep steps but also reversed back up again! It was in this that we traversed Malta and Gozo with our friends and were introduced to the exciting world of archaeology first hand.

Bill also taught me how to swim using a snorkel, mask and flippers so that I could accompany him while he dived with full equipment. My mother and Donna would sit it out with Damian on a nearby beach. I have a great memory of us swimming together through the Inland Sea channel in Gozo amongst many brightly coloured fish.

The second compensation of living in Floriana was the situation of our flat. It overlooked the Grand Harbour with only a road and small park separating us from the tall walls that surrounded the harbour. I was a tomboy, and had already learnt how to climb trees. I picked out my favourite tree in the park and spent many hours on a high branch watching the comings and goings of the ships below. Also, as long as one of my parents was there to hold on to me, I was allowed to walk along the top of the harbour wall. I dread to think now of quite how high this was. I only know I never looked down!

When some of the Royal Navy or American Navy ships were anchored in the Grand Harbour they had open days and you could go on board. This was a great treat, as you were ushered on board a small landing craft to take you out to the warships, one of which even had nuclear arms. Looking back, this seems impossible to imagine now, in our current climate of potential terrorist attacks and the need for stringent security. In 1960, this was not yet a threat and the crew happily took us around the ships, patiently answering our many questions.

During our stay, a major event that took place at the Grand Harbour on July 22nd 1960 was the arrival of Papal Legate. Personally, I cannot recall much

about this, but I believe we went along with some friends. I recall that it turned into quite a frightening experience, as we were quickly surrounded by throngs of people pushing everyone along the harbour side.

Starting school

All too soon, my extended summer holidays were coming to an end, and the prospect of school loomed large. This posed a question for my parents where would they send me to school? As my father was employed by a private company, my attendance at the nearby school for children of the British Armed Forces was not possible. I believe they did try, but to no avail. I had attended a private convent school prior to our move to Malta, so the search began to find a similar school in Malta, which they did St Monicas in Birkirkara. So, when the new term began, I began making my daily trips from Floriana to school.

After the first few days on which my mother accompanied me, I was allowed to travel to school by myself. My journey began with a walk from home, up a steep slope to the small road with shops on each side where I would stop and buy sweets, then on to St Anne Street where the bus from Valletta would stop. Back then, buses were painted a different colour dependent on their route so I could spot the one for Birkirkara from quite a distance away. I recall that this bus was red, while the one to Sliema was green. Each day, I would reach the stop with a sense of anticipation, wondering what type of bus it would be, and always hoping it would be one of the new buses and not the old bone rattling ones!

I had an unpleasant surprise at the end of my first week at St Monicas when it became apparent that we were expected to attend on Saturday mornings. I found this difficult to understand and, being a very obstinate child, at first refused. It took some bribing from my mother and a promise to meet me at school on that first Saturday at lunchtime before I would go. She then took me on to a favourite place, Gajn Tuffiea, which meant that that first Saturday wasnt too bad after all. After Sliema, the beach at Gajn


special feature

Tuffiea became another swimming paradise for me. That is, before I came very close to drowning there a few months later but thats another story.

A feast for the senses

I have many recollections of the time I spent in Malta, but the ones that often return are those that appeal to that heightened sense the sense of smell.

I recall the saltpans at Salini where I used to try to balance along the ridges between the crystallised pools whilst the sea air wafted through my nostrils.

I remember the smell of freshly baked bread, which I learned was called ob, from the local bakery, which was little more than a room in a small house, with a huge oven glowing red in the distance. I vividly recall the bread being pushed in and out on what seemed like huge shovels. I have never since experienced quite the same delicious aroma or tasted bread like it a dark, heavily toasted crust with huge holes inside, as if a small mouse had been burrowing a way through.

Picking the aromatic rosemary which grew wild in the small park opposite our home and taking it home for my mother. This was the special additional ingredient to the delicious garlic sauteed potatoes she made. The unusual smell of the flavoured milk in the bar near the covered market in Valletta, and upon entering the market, all manner of unaccustomed fragrances awakening your senses. Meat, fish, unusual fruit and vegetables, herbs, flowers, sweet-smelling pastries and of course pastizzi, which you seemed to be able to buy anywhere and everywhere.

Thinking of food, like many people on the island in 1960, I remember that we didnt have a fridge. However, we were fortunate enough to have a well

in the courtyard at the back of our flat. Our milk, cheese and butter and other fresh produce were placed in a bucket and lowered down into the well, just into the water. This was an age-old yet effective way of keeping perishable food cool, and was a task that I loved helping with.

Local creatures

Another time-honoured custom was the greengrocer, who would come to our road in the early evening

on a cart pulled by Fortune a huge black horse that I loved dearly. He had his own personal odour, which was not quite so pleasant! Fortune also had an unfortunate habit of tramping on your toes if you moved too close to him. I lost count of the times he squashed my feet so badly that I had to spend the rest of the evening bathing them in warm salty water, but I never stopped making a fuss of him.

I have always loved animals and one of the things I noticed on our move to Gunlayer Square was the amount of wild cats there. I was told by friends that I shouldnt touch them, as they werent clean and might scratch or bite. I was not to be deterred however, and was reminded of how my father had tamed a wild cat in East London whilst still a child.

A plan was devised and I persuaded my mother to buy tins of tuna to put out for the cats, along with saucers of milk. Slowly but surely, I moved the dishes of tuna and milk further away from the area where the cats congregated and closer to our flat every day. Eventually they were enticed into the entrance hall of our building. After many weeks of patience, the cats became less timid and I was able to stroke them. Word quickly spread amongst our neighbours and I became something of a local heroine the little English girl who tamed the wild cats.

A lasting impression

I retain many impressions of this time in my life far too many in fact, to include in one article. This is but a snapshot of the early 60s on my favourite island, and my unforgettable memories of Malta, comprising idyllic childhood days abounding with wonderful adventures.

I am proud to say that, if only for a short while, my address was Malta GC.

"I remember the smell of freshly baked bread, whichI learned was called ob

Where Carole stayed with her mother in Floriana


real life

Do you, or someone you know, have a treasured thing? Send us your suggestion to My Thing, VIDA Magazine, Pitkali Road, Attard, ATD 2214 or by email to [email protected] for a chance to showcase the item that means most to you wed love to hear about it!

My thing

Rodianne Caruana has always loved bow and skull motifs, so when shespotted a bag bearing these designs, she had to have it.

Some time ago, while I was getting my nails done at a friends house in Naxxar, I noticed a bag she had bought from London. It had a lace and skull print all over it and a little bow on the top, with a skull pendant hanging from it. I liked it so much that I started looking around for one like it, but to no avail.

After six months or so, I came across a bag like the one I had seen in a shop in Mosta. Unfortunately though, it was priced at 67, and I was broke at the time. After a little while when I finally had enough money to afford it, I went back to the shop. To my disappointment, it was gone. What the shop did have was a lookalike clutch bag priced at 45, and I felt I had no choice but to buy it. All in all, I was happy with my new accessory, despite it not being the exact shape I wanted.

My happiness was short lived though, as I soon discovered that the bag was damaged.

I was disappointed once again when went back to the shop to replace it but I ended up being given a refund

instead because it was the only one they had left. Finally, some time later, I spotted the bag I was

after in a shop window at Baystreet, but the shop itself happened to be closed at the time. The next morning, I purposely took time off work to go and get it. I arrived before the shop had even opened, and as soon as it did, I marched straight in and asked for it. To my surprise,

another girl that had come in behind me also asked for it. You can imagine my disbelief when we were informed that it was the last one.

This time, I wasnt going to lose the opportunity to get the bag I had wanted for so long. I was the first

in the shop and that was that. The bag was finally mine and

it was the other girls turn to leave disappointed. A year

has passed since then and despite frequent use, my

bag is still in great shape and I love it!


advertorial

Chamilias new collections

Chamilia, renowned for their innovative bracelet and vast array of colourful beads, have introduced two new beautiful collections derived from two of their most sought-after beads designs and transformed into timeless jewellery that celebrates your life and style.

The Captured Heart Collection, consisting of stud or drop earrings, rings and necklaces, all in 925 Solid Silver with rose gold wash, is truly exceptional. It conveys a sense of love and sensuality while finely revealing its elegance. This collection is evocative of the romance in your life.

The Jewelled Kaleidoscope Collection in 925 Solid Silver with crystal Swarovski Elements makes a clear statement of the wearer's personality. In keeping with their namesake, the kaleidoscope of colours of the stud and drop earrings, rings and necklaces shimmer brilliantly as you move, and reflect your own colourful story.

Another innovative aspect of this collection is the unique sliding feature of the pendant necklace. It is perfect for every neckline as it permits adjustment of the necklace to any length of one's choosing. All of these jewellery pieces are suitable as adornment on any outfit for all occasions, adding that extra sparkle to your wardrobe.

Chamilia is exclusively represented by 202 Jewellery of Valletta, Sliema, Fgura, and now also in Victoria, Gozo, Le Meridien, St Julians and The Palace Hotel, Sliema.


fashion

Street Style

Apostulos Tsagkaris, 28Gaming company workerCardigan BershkaTop GorillaJeans cant rememberShoes Nike

Lea Bellizzi, 18StudentSunglasses EbayEarrings AmsterdamCardigan & bag Berska Top & shorts Pull & BearShoes H&M

Linsay Sinnemun, 28SculptorDress Dorothy PerkinsBag ThailandShoes River Island

Ian Jones, 32LecturerTshirt PrimarkJacket H&MJeans BurtonShoes AdidasBag River Island

Zoe Theofilou, 33Shop OwnerBandana A local souvenir shopShoes & shirt Roxy @ RiotLeggings PeacocksNecklace Swarovski

Amanda Zammit, 19StudentScarf StradivariusTop ZaraTrousers BershkaShoes AldoBag New Look


fashion

Last month, VIDA took to the streets to check out Christmas shoppers street style choices. Far from the cosy knits and cool layering usually associated with winter however, our Mediterranean islands persistently warm weather painted a very different picture. From floaty tea dresses to casual cardigans, VIDA presents a none too wintry street style... lets enjoy it while it lasts!

Mary Mifsud, 29Project managerJacket & top TopshopJeans New Look Bag SpringfieldWatch ArmaniBoots Stradivarius

Janice Gauci, 19StudentTop ShanaJeans Pull & BearBag Fred PerryNecklace PromodShoes River Island

Gabrielle Fenech, 20StudentJacket & dress AsosBag PrimarkBelt PeacocksShoes Zara

Zeynep Korabulut, 22StudentJacket MangoShirt & trousers VeromodaShoes Turkey

Francesca Theuma, 24DoctorJacket Tommy HilfigerShirt StradivariusBoots AldoBag ZaraScarf Bershka

Rca Gerleit , 27Fashion show organiserJacket ZaraTop & shorts LondonShoes AdidasBag Vintage Watch Fossil


fashion

Every time sales season comes about, it divides shoppers into two groups. The first group is comprised of maddened, foaming-at-the-mouth bargain hunters that are ready to swipe that top from right under your very nose if youre not careful. The second group steers well clear from the shops until the sales are over in order to avoid the carnage. Sound familiar?

What often gets overlooked about sales time is that it provides the perfect opportunity to do what many of us would love to do but often fall short of get what we need (or simply want) for less. The trick is not to lose your head.

Whereas large sale signs bearing the words Buy 1 get 1 free or Up to 70% off and displaying all manner of what we perceive to be great deals can mess with our heads, resist the temptation to buy anything because its so cheap! The first thing you should consider, before the price even comes into play, is whether you like, need and would wear the item in question.

We are living in a time in which a great many of us have way more in our wardrobes than we could possibly need or wear.

Monochrome There is no more classic combination than black and white. Go for a monochromatic look this season for a sharp elegance, but be smart about it you dont want to end up looking like a waiter. A great way to wear black and white is via a patterned piece. Geometric prints such as chequerboard and dogtooth variants work a treat in monochrome and teamed with jewel toned accessories and statement jewellery, are a fashion-forward style choice.

1: River Island2: Topshop3: Dorothy Perkins

Label we

Dont lose your head in the sales

Links of London

Flame haired Codie Young stuns in jewellery label Links of Londons Fall 2012 Campaign. Looking positively painterly, the shots look more Renaissance painting than fashion campaign, with the models red hair and alabaster skin setting of the glittering jewellery perfectly. Evoking a quiet and feminine elegance, Links of London, founded in 1990, has never looked better.

Fashion Fairground

1

2

3


fashion

I do not exclude myself when I say this, but I challenge you take a look into your wardrobe and offhand, just on first sight, how many items can you spot that havent been worn in years or indeed, have never even left your wardrobe? Is the number more than you thought? Embarrassingly high? Well, that should give you an inkling of how important it is to shop sensibly.

In order to shop successfully in the sales, and return bearing only items you will wear and enjoy, you need to be prepared. Before leaving the house, take stock of what you have, and make a list of anything you lack. If you have an abundance of short-sleeved shirts but lack long sleeved ones, resist the urge to buy that cute summery blouse. If you have constant dilemmas about what to wear over your dress for smarter events, keep your eyes peeled for blazers at the sales. Need sensible shoes for the office? Dont buy studded platforms! Lacking separates? Dont buy more dresses!

Difficult as it may be, it really does pay to stick to your game plan when the sales roll around. Its a win-win really good news for your pocket, and good news for your wardrobe too!

Bejewelled The party season may be over for the most part, but thats no reason to put your glittering pieces away just yet. Bejewelled pieces are big news this winter and whether you might want to limit the shine by opting for a bejewelled collar, statement jewellery or glistening bag, theres nothing to stop you from going the whole hog and channelling Diana Ross in a top-to-toe sequined outfit!

Celebs

1: Topshop2: Asos3: Miss Selfridge

Dont lose your head in the sales

Festive jumpers

Love it or hate it, the novelty jumper is a staple come every festive season. Having experienced a resurgence as an almost fashionable item during the last few years, the Christmas jumper has ceased to be the height of embarrassment and whereas not being quite the pinnacle of elegance, remains a holiday favourite among celebrities. Whats more, it does hide those few extra kilos that extra helpings of turkey may have put on!

Fashion Fairground by Sarah Micallef

Rose McGowanLauren Conrad Kanye West

3

12

Creative director: Sarah Micallef Focused Knowledge T: 2339 2403

Photography: Jacob Sammut Carabez Pearl Works, [email protected]

Hair: Ruth Steer, D Salon T: 2137 1245, [email protected]

Makeup: Diandra Mattei using Givenchy T: 7982 8414

Model: Ben Azzopardi @ Supernovamodel.com

Jumper Miss SelfridgeLeggings & hat TopshopLoafers New Look

M Ochrome

Blazer Dorothy PerkinsNecklace Mango

Dress MangoBody Jewellery New Look

Jacket TopshopSkirt Mango

Shirt Miss SelfridgeShorts TopshopTights New LookShoes Mango


motoring

If you love cars, this is probably one youd do anything to own. There are imitations, there are clones, and there are modern remakes of this American muscle car, but very few get to own, or drive, the real deal the iconic 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500. Just over 2,000 were produced, and only a limited number still exist. One of them, the only example on the Maltese islands, is owned by father and son Emanuel and Anthony Pace.

In 1965, retired race driver Caroll Shelby (1923 - 2012) was approached by Ford to work his magic on the recently launched Ford Mustang, to make it the fastest American car on and off the track more specifically, to beat stiff competition from Corvette. The first experiment was 1965s Mustang GT350. Instant success on racing circuits meant that the Ford-Shelby collaboration soon became a highly demanded brand. Ford soon asked Shelby to produce an even more powerful road car that also met the comfort demands of more affluent buyers. In 1967, the first of 2,048 GT500 models rolled off Shelbys air hangar-turned-workshop. In this new model, Shelby launched a new engine, based on the Cobra engine used in the AC Cobras racing in the historic Le Mans circuit. This modified version of Fords 345bhp V8 428-cid Police Interceptor was officially rated at 355 bhp. In truth, it is closer to 400 bhp, but confirming that in the specs list would have alarmed the insurance companies! To reassure the cautious drivers however, the GT500 was the first car to include a factory fitted internal roll cage and shoulder harnesses, which Shelby based on those used in the F-4 Phantom II Jet Fighter.

Every car lovers American dreamby David Vella


motoring

A year later, in 1968, one of the few 1967 models sporting a white paint job with dealer-fitted green Le Mans stripes, was lifted off a cargo ship at the Grand Harbour and let loose on the Maltese roads. Since then, it has been lucky enough to have three very careful owners, and just over 40,000 miles later, it currently sits in Emanuels garage, as it undergoes its first ever restoration not that it really needs one. The Cobra Le Mans engine has already been dismantled and put back together, without needing much work. The body is almost free from rust or dents, but Emanuel is determined to slowly dismantle it, remove any non-factory additions added to the car through the years, and take it back to that day back in 1967 when it was completed at Shelbys workshop in Los Angeles.Originally, the cars price tag was a modest (by todays standards) $4,195 (3,295). Today, also thanks to Dominic Senas 2000 remake of the 1970s epic film Gone in 60 seconds, starring Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie and a stunning 1967 GT500 codenamed Eleanor, the few remaining models of this car are price tagged at anything between 95,000 and 160,000.

But would Emanuel and Anthony be willing to cash in on this unique car? No way. When we bought the Shelby, we could not believe what we had brought to our garage, they explain. Since then weve never stopped researching and establishing international contacts to learn as much as possible about this car. Were even in contact with the Shelby American Automobile Club, which has included our GT500 in the annual World Registry of Shelby Mustangs, along with the few other remaining examples known to exist. In 2013, we hope to complete the restoration project and get the car back on the road. Well never let it go we want to enjoy it for many years to come.

"the fewremaining models of this car are price tagged at anything

between 95,000 and 160,000"


photography

Street photography is one of the most immediate and accessible forms of photography. It may also seem like the most simple. After all, you just need to hit the streets with your camera in hand, either in your own town or abroad and capture life as it unfolds before you, right? In reality, photos taken with little thought or attention to detail rarely turn out to be special. Photographing the ordinary in an ordinary way is most likely to leave the viewer unimpressed and wondering why you simply pointed at a part of the street and took the photo.

The best street photographers always seem to be at the right place at the right time to capture a special moment and find something unusual in day-to-day life. Generally, apart from a good instinct, it also requires lots of patience. Great photographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson often walk by a particular spot and stick around to make sure theyre there at the right time, waiting for something out of the ordinary to happen.

The element of life, whether human or animal, is very important to give a street photo its unique touch. A photo of an empty street may also have

a story to tell, particularly if there are clues of life in that shot, as is the case in the first photo. Nevertheless, it is important to distinguish between the aim of architectural photography, which focuses on buildings, and street photography, which is more about the people who live in thos

vida magazine january 2013 - issue 37

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