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Delgatie Castle Turiff
photography: Annie Rees
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photography: Annie Rees
A VIKING WEDDING
A wedding to remember
It is not every day that one can see a Viking bride riding through the streets of Elgin. It is indeed rare to see a Viking wedding, or indeed any wedding that showed as much love as this one did.
Hanna and Garry are Viking pagans and they opted for their special day to be as authentic as they could make it, reflecting as much as possible all the Viking traditions that they, as a couple, hold dear.
Choose from our range of beautiful wedding gowns available - no size limit.
Stocking Bridesmaids, Flower Girl, prom dresses and Mother of the Bride/Groom outfits.
From the very start, the day was full of personality. It started, as usual, with hair and makeup, using traditional braids and natural flowers; the result – a stunning and authentic bride. Hanna’s dress was made in the Czech Republic, with beautiful gold thread running through the material, complementing her complexion. The veil came from Be Our Bride in Cullen and was the perfect accompaniment to her stunning dress. But let’s not forget the groom, who was resplendent with leathers in the traditional style and a shield, as befits a Viking ruler.
Garry went to meet his bride to ensure her safety. The traditional ceremony that followed was sublime, full of love and hope for the future. They exchanged personal swords and vows and drank mead to mark the marriage with the gods.
And then the feast! A hog roast with the groom cutting the first slice, as tradition dictates. The Vikings were all about sharing food and stories. Highland Hog Roast did them proud with the catering and the stories told by the History Matters team added the perfect authenticity to the day.
After dancing the night away no-one who was there will ever forget this magnificent day.
LILYPIPS PET GEAR Chapel House, Newlands of Tynet, BUCKIE, AB56 5HH
photography: Annie Rees
BRIDAL HAIR
By Angela at The Strand
There is no doubt that every bride wants to look her absolute best on her special day. A lot of careful and thoughtful planning has gone into every aspect of the big day: the dress has been chosen with care, as have the shoes and accessories. Everything, down to the smallest detail, is in place. It is now time to contact Angela at The Strand for a hair consultation.
Angela suggests booking a consultation and trial in advance to secure your date for the big day. It does not matter whether you book it for yourself alone or for the entire bridal party, you will receive the highest quality of service. The consultation and trial will ensure that your hairstyle complements your chosen dress and frames your face beautifully – just think about those stunning wedding photographs that you will treasure for ever.
It is preferable that you attend the salon for your trial, as this way you will have access to all that the salon has to offer, but Angela is happy to visit you if you wish.
On your wedding day there is no need to stress and Angela will ensure that you remain totally relaxed, whether you chose to visit the salon or have her visit you at your chosen venue. She emphasises that this is your special day and she is there to help make it as memorable as possible.
Bridal Beauty Isn’t Just for Brides
Pampering
the Whole Wedding Party
When we think of wedding beauty, the spotlight is usually on the bride, but she’s not the only one who deserves to look and feel radiant on the big day! From the mother of the bride to the groom and even the youngest flower girl, a little pre-wedding pampering can make the whole wedding party feel confident and photo ready.
For mothers of the bride and groom, a hydrating facial a few weeks before the wedding can enhance their natural glow, while a smoothing blow-dry, and elegant makeup ensure they feel fabulous on the day. A skilled and soothing manicure also helps, especially with all those proud hand-holding moments.
Bridesmaids often struggle with matching beauty looks while maintaining their individuality. The key? A cohesive theme, whether it’s soft waves or chic updos, while still tailoring styles to suit each person. A pre-wedding group pamper session, like facials or massages, is also a great way to bond before the big day.
Grooms and groomsmen might not always think about beauty prep, but a sharp haircut, beard grooming, and even a touch of concealer for under-eye shadows can make a real difference in photos.
Finally, flower girls and junior bridesmaids love feeling included. A simple, secure hairstyle and a mini manicure (with a gentle non-gel polish) make them feel extra special.
A wedding is a celebration for everyone, and a little thoughtful beauty prep ensures that the whole party feels their best, after all, confidence is the best accessory!
We are located at: 94 Academy Street, Inverness IV1 1LU
Opening times are: Mon-Sat 10am to 5pm Tel: 01463 417230 www.la-di-da-fashion.co.uk
Delgatie Castle Turiff
photography: Annie Rees
LONGMORE COMMUNITY HALL
Exquisite womenswear for all occasions
Located in the heart of the Highlands, we pride ourselves on offering a stunning range of occasion wear, accessories and lingerie; meaning that we can dress our clients from head to toe. We also stock a fabulous range of clothing from casual right up to special occasion outfits.
Rouge Boutiques Inverness has a large selection of lingerie for all sizes.
We have bras to cover, “First Fits” Teens, Mastectomy, Maternity and Feeding Bras, to the smaller cups and to the fuller cups we have it all.
With a huge emphasis on getting the perfect fit for you, you won’t be disappointed.
The girls have over 20 years’ experience at looking after your girls, so you are in very safe hands.
Our variety of brands and styles ensures we really do have it all sorted for you.
Fittings are best by appointment to avoid disappointment. Call 01463 262 434 to book your appointment now
71 Castle Street, Inverness | Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm
For as long as I can remember, photography has always been a passion of mine and it was no surprise to anyone when I created Ceamara Photography in 2012.
The camera acts as a pause button on life, capturing those indescribable, unforgettable moments and I am privileged to be a part of people’s lives.
I have been truly fortunate to win Photographer of the Year North in 2020 and also overall at the Scottish Wedding Awards. I won again for the North Section in 2023 and was highly recommended in the outstanding photographer of the year category.
This year in 2025 I am once again nominated for Photographer of the Year North and cannot wait for the wedding awards in Glasgow with Creative Oceanic. This is a brilliant night, filled with the best of the best in the industry.
I cannot thank everyone enough for all the support I have had over the years.
07772 875717
morag@ceamaraphotography.com
www.ceamaraphotography.com
TRACY GOES OUTSIDE
Exploring Aviemore
Tracy undertakes lovely walks all over our beautiful country and we are delighted she has agreed to provide Lifestyle readers with the inside knowledge that she has gleaned from her many adventures.
I hope you enjoy Tracy’s walks? Please do let us know and send us some photos.
In the heart of the Cairngorms, Aviemore is a wonderful town to explore at any time of year.
Several waymarked trails can be accessed from the town centre, including the Craigellachie
Distance: 4 ¾ miles
Time: 2–3 hrs
Level: Easy with some elevation
Terrain: A mix of woodland and grass paths, pavement, and some road walking.
Access: Car parking is available on Grampian Road (PH22 1RH), a short distance from the start. Trains to and from Inverness run regularly, and various bus routes, including those to Grantown, Carrbridge, Kingussie and Inverness serve the start of the walk. Both the train station and bus stop are located at the walk’s starting point. Toilets can be found next to the car park and at the train station.
Nature Reserve and the Speyside Way. This circular walk takes you around the edge of the town, following parts of the Orbital Trail and National Cycle Route No. 7.
Starting on Grampian Road outside the train station, turn left and head toward the petrol station. When it is safe to do so, cross the road and continue walking past the Happy Haggis Chip Shop. After the waste ground beside the chip shop, take the road leading up to the youth hostel. You’ll find a track to the right of the youth hostel, follow it until you come to the tunnel for the Craigellachie Nature Reserve.
To the right of the tunnel, you’ll see some steps and a sign for the Aviemore Orbital. Head up the steps and follow the waymarked Orbital Trail. This part of the walk is marked by green Orbital marker posts. You will pass behind the Macdonald Hotel and the Scandinavian Village.
Continue along the waymarked Orbital Trail through the woodland, passing a large wooden outdoor learning gazebo. You will walk over a bridge crossing Butcher’s Burn before reaching Old Meal Road. The track begins to curve to the right, offering fantastic views of the Cairngorm Mountain range.
Soon, you will reach a main road, be cautious while crossing and rejoin the trail on the other side. In this section, you may spot plenty of birds in the trees - perfect for keen birdwatchers. You will come to the first train track, where a tunnel takes you under the railway. Shortly after, you will pass under a second train track.
Continue along the trail until you reach a junction with large metal flowers. Here, follow the track that points to the Orbital Trail, but this is also where you join National Cycle Route No. 7.
At the end of the track, you’ll find the golf club near the River Spey. Turn right here to a small car park area with a blue signpost for Cycle Route No. 7. Follow the road along Spey Avenue until you reach Dalfaber Drive. Turn right, then take the next left onto Dalnabay. Continue along this road, following the Cycle Route No. 7 signs.
You’ll pass a quiet housing estate before reaching a wooded area that leads to Dalfaber Road. On your left, you’ll see the sheds for the Strathspey Railway—look out for some old trains as you pass.
Further along, you’ll come to an underpass for the railway line on your right. To the left of the underpass, you’ll find a path leading to the Strathspey Railway car park. If you time your visit right, you might even spot the Strathspey Railway steam train.
Finally, take the steps over the railway line, which will bring you back to the starting point of the walk.
www.tracygoesoutside.com
Images..
@clarehoganphotography
@clarehoganphotography
John Luckwell
Jill Cockburn
@zsturra | Great spotted woodpecker
@zsturra | Robin
Jill Cockburn
EVENTS 2025 Moray Game JaM
What has become known as the ‘Friendliest Game Jam’ in Scotland is taking place on the 7th – 9th March at UHI Moray. This is the 8th year for the Moray Game Jam which has grown in popularity since its inception in 2014 attracting individuals and teams from across the country to spend the weekend in Moray creating video and board games.
The Moray Game Jam started in 2014 as the UK’s most northerly Game Jam, and brings together gaming enthusiasts from across the country, industry leaders and educators for 48-hours of creativity, collaboration, and fun.
The purpose of the Jam is to attract teams from around Scotland to compete over 48 hours to create a video or board game based on a specific theme. The games are then showcased at a public gaming playground attracting large numbers of families and young people who are invited to vote on their favourite board and video game.
A number of the winning prototypes from previous Jams have been developed into commercial projects. The Jam also provided ideal opportunities for young people, parents and students to gain valuable practical insight into the computing and creative industries.
Workshops and talks are taking place on Saturday 8th March and the ever-popular Gaming Playground takes place on Sunday afternoon from 2pm – 4pm where members of the public are invited to come along and try out the games developed over the 48 hours, meet the judges and the game developers. New for 2025, the organisers have introduced additional activities for the gamers including social sessions and a quiz on the Saturday night.
Staff from UHI Moray and student volunteers will be on hand over the weekend to ensure the comfort and safety of the game developers and supplying an endless supply of food and hot drinks as always.
The 2025 Jam boasts an impressive lineup of judges bringing a wide range of educational and industry expertise who will provide support and mentor the gamers over the weekend. The judges include:
Laura Cress, Gaming & Technology Journalist | Streamer - broadcast journalist covering news, technology and gaming trends for the BBC for the past seven years. Laura also streams games and in particular indie games on Twitch, and on YouTube interviews individuals renowned for forging their own creative paths in the industry, such as Ron Gilbert, Charles Cecil and Tim Schafer.
Christopher Acornley, Computing Lecturer, UHI Perth. Christopher started with developing mobile games in Dundee before joining Abertay University, teaching in their Games Development and Programming courses before moving to UHI Perth. His teaching focuses on Programming and Artificial Intelligence.
Alastair Low, Indie Game Developer, Alastair Low has worked in the games industry for over a decade on loads from mobile to PS5 and playdate. He runs Lowtek Games, a small studio focusing on making dyslexia-friendly games and tools for old and new systems. Alastair has run 3
successful Kickstarter campaigns for new games for the NES in the FLEA universe. Ally helped run a local makerspace where he hosted many game jams and loves to make weird game concepts with alternative controls.
Craig Barron, Head of Engineering, Code Wizards. With over a decade of experience in the gaming industry Craig specialises in game technology software development. Craig is actively involved in the gaming community, participating in conferences, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Corrie Green, Indie Game Developer After clinching the MGJ win in 2015, Corrie brings over a decade of experience running a small studio dedicated to multiplatform software and game development.
Moray Game Jam organisers are as always, very grateful to the range of sponsors who without their support and generous contributions the event would not be able to happen. The sponsors for 2025 so far include: H N Media, The Little Lunchbox, Code Wizards, J Thomson Print, SISCA and Lifestyle Magazine.
EVENTS
Wannabe at the Disco: 90s VS 2000s – The Penultimate Party at Elgin Town Hall!
Get ready to rewind and groove to the iconic hits of the 90s and 2000s
Join us on Friday, March 21st, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. for an unforgettable night of disco, dancing, and fundraising organised by Aidan Henderson BCyA.
This is the second last party at the hall, so do not miss your chance to be part of history!
From 7 pm, DJ Boogie Box will be spinning all your favourite 90s and 2000s hits from Britney Spears to the Backstreet Boys, P!NK to the Black-Eyed Peas, and more!
About an hour into the event, the sensational singers, Carmen Proctor, Ellie Dunbar and Arwen Burns will WOW you with their performances, adding to the evening's nostalgia and fun.
Optional Dress Code: From frosted tips to the era of grunge fashion, chokers, or dressing up as Pitbull. Get creative and have fun with the theme.
Do not miss this opportunity to dance, donate, and make a difference!
Grab your tickets now to be part of an unforgettable night filled with nostalgia from the 90s and 2000s, all while supporting two incredible causes.
Let’s make it a night to remember!
Proceeds will benefit Elgin Youth Development Group (Elgin Youth Cafe) and Macmillan Cancer Support.
Important Information: under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
BOOK NOW FOR THE FOLLOWING
14TH FEBRUARY 2025
The MacDonald Brothers
15TH FEBRUARY 2025
Sold on Soul
16TH FEBRUARY 2025
Taylor Fever (Taylor Swift Tribute)
21ST FEBRUARY 2025
Club 80’s Live
5TH-8TH MARCH 2025
EMT: Shrek - The Musical
14TH MARCH 2025
Pride of Ireland Show with Mike Denver & Dominic Kirwan
15TH MARCH 2025
The UK Rock Show
28TH MARCH 2025
Beyond the Barricade
29TH MARCH 2025
Hotel California (Eagles Tribute)
30TH MARCH 2025
The Forty Elephants & Friends (ETH Farewell for Now Bash)
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE GREAT SHOWS! WWW.ELGINTOWNHALL.CO.UK
Clare and Steve’s adventure continues.....
Having left Tokyo behind, our next stop was Kyoto. We were beyond excited for our first ride on the bullet train! Nothing screams ‘Japan’ more loudly than this super sleek train silently speeding out from the station. The legendary train – known as the Shinkansen, travels at a maximum speed of 300kph. The high-speed rail network has an impressive safety record with no passenger fatalities since its first run in 1964.
Our journey to Kyoto was 297 miles in just over 2 hours. We got our first glimpse of Mount
Fuji from the train – only seen on average for 80 days a year, we felt lucky that we got to see this huge, majestic mountain.
In Kyoto, I’d booked a night-time walking tour of the temples and the Geisha district. The city was much quieter at night, and we were able to visit the main tourist spots with only a handful of people around. The Geisha district was fascinating— these highly trained female
performers are an integral part of Japanese culture, and it was a rare treat to see several Maiko (junior Geishas) and even a couple of full Geishas, accompanied by their Mama-san, a retired Geisha who looks after them. Taking photos of them is considered to be disrespectful, so we watched from afar, completely fascinated by this part of Japanese culture.
Steve and I are both golfers, so a highlight of our visit to Kyoto was to play golf. Golf in Japan is notoriously expensive and incredibly difficult for visitors to play, so I was excited to find a public course that we could play – without a bank loan!
The course was near the mountains, the scenery was stunning and the real novelty for us was an electric self-guided buggy, with a remote control. You just had to sit in it and press stop/start. Good fun!
The next day, we visited the beautiful Kiyomizudera Temple, perched on a small mountain with sweeping views of Kyoto. We spent the rest of the day wandering through Gion, the historic district with its traditional wooden houses—one even housed the first
KYOTO_WALKING TOUR
KYOTO TORRI GATES
Starbucks in a traditional setting, complete with tatami seating.
On our final day in Kyoto, we explored Fushimi Inari, a Shinto shrine with 32,000 iconic orange torii gates leading up to the sacred Mount Inari. The trail was crowded at the bottom, but as we ascended, the crowds thinned, allowing us to snap some photos of the breathtaking gates without the masses. Another unforgettable experience was the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Standing among those towering bamboo stalks felt otherworldly.
It felt edgier than the other places we’d visited, with its own unique vibe. We only had one night here, then it was back on the Shinkansen to Hakone, a mountainous town known for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. The change in pace was refreshing, Hakone felt quieter and more relaxed than the bustling cities. The traditional hotel experience was a highlight, complete with Yukatas (casual robes) and Samues (monk-style work clothes).
I also had a chance to dress as a Geisha for a photoshoot in Arashiyama, complete with traditional hair and makeup. It was a unique way to experience Japan’s rich culture, and the photos turned out really well!
Next, we took another Shinkansen ride to Hiroshima. From there, we took a ferry to Miyajima Island. You may have seen pictures of Miyajima without realising it – it’s famous for its large floating torii gate and is one of the iconic images of Japan often used in advertising.
Back in Hiroshima it was sobering to see the A-Bomb Dome – the only building to survive from the first atomic bomb that exploded on 6 August 1945. It’s now part of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. It is permanently kept in a state of preserved ruin as a reminder of the destructive effects of nuclear warfare.
From Hiroshima, we were off to Osaka, a city full of energy and neon lights.
Hakone is a large area joined together by a funicular railway, cable cars, a boat and buses. We took the funicular railway, then got onto the cable car that took you to the top of Mount Kamiyama. As we got closer to the top we got to see Mount Fuji – again! At the top is the Owakudani valley - known for the sulphuric fumes, volcanic springs and steam spewing vents that burst out with fumes of hydrogen sulphide.
Finally, we made our way back to Tokyo for our last night. We did some last-minute shopping, visited the famous 3D cat, and returned to the cozy little bar in Golden Gai which we’d found in our first few days in the city. A final saké toast, and we were ready to head home.
This trip has been an incredible adventure, full of unforgettable memories. Now that we’re back in the peaceful surroundings of Portknockie, what do we miss most about Japan? The convenience stores! The 7/11s there are nothing like the ones here, with delicious food - egg sandwiches and crème brûlée ice cream were our particular favourites! And of course, the toilets… with heated seats, sound effects, water jets, and dryers, we’re definitely wishing we could’ve brought one back with us!
Now where to next…?!
MIYAJIMA
OSAKA
One of the world’s largest whisky festivals launches their 2025 preview
Henry Angus, Chair of SOSWF
The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has established itself as one of the world’s largest, with almost 500 events across 89 venues in 6 days kicking off this year from April 30th.
An economic impact assessment revealed that the 2024 Festival generated over £2.2million to the local economy during the festival and supported around 20 full-time jobs.
Henry Angus is to take over the tenure as Chair from George McNeil for this year’s Festival. A well-respected figure in Speyside, his career spans across established companies in Moray and Aberdeenshire. After a long-standing relationship with the festival, he recently joined the Board and is looking forward to taking the helm and helping further elevate its stature.
Henry said, “Last year was record-breaking and the spotlight was firmly on Speyside. This is the most populous whisky region with the greatest array of distilleries at any festival globally. It brings together whisky fans, distillers and visitors that love this beautiful part of the world. From masterclasses to music, from quizzes to fireside
gatherings, from culture to history the calendar is full of opportunities to share the water of life with fellow whisky lovers, aficionados and people that just enjoy a dram.”
With 28 villages and towns in Moray Speyside, many of the 51 distilleries will throw open their doors including a number that are usually closed to the public. Characterised by rolling patchwork hills, a terrain that epitomises the whisky produced and the meandering River Spey that lends its waters to making some of the world’s finest whisky, this Festival has it all.
The event will kick off with an industry dinner on Wed 30th April, co-hosted by Speyside Distillers Ltd followed by the annual ceilidh on 2nd May for visitors to the Festival. Both events will take place for the first time at the Macdonald Highlands Hotel, in Aviemore. Usually pre-sold, a rare opportunity to secure a spot at the Spirit of Speyside Whisky School will launch this year, along with the ticket sales.
For all events and ticket information visit the website: https://spiritofspeyside.citizenticket.com/
Cabrach Land of the Wild
CAMEL BEAUTY -
By
Marina Bruce
Humps, Hooves, and High Stakes: The Glamour of Camel Beauty Pageants
You may chuckle at the thought of a camel beauty pageant, but these contests are a vibrant and integral part of the winter festival season in the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia. While camel racing has deep roots, the camel beauty contest is relatively new, developed toward the end of the last century. Local sheikhs, concerned that rapid modernization might erode traditional Bedouin culture, encouraged these pageants to celebrate the region’s most beloved desert companions— the camels.
As a frequent visitor to the Al Dhafra Camel Festival, I can attest that this is a real spectacle. Camel owners from across the Gulf bring their prized camels to compete in more than 350 different “laps” or categories. Each of these has a winner, who receives a “winner's jacket,” a ceremonial saffron anointing, and a trophy. The owners of these crowned camels are awarded generous financial prizes, all funded by the
government to ensure the celebration of this rich cultural heritage.
The entire festival echoes the gatherings of old, where Bedu travelled across the desert to meet, trade, and connect. These occasions were not just social; they were opportunities to catch up with distant relatives, exchange goods, and even arrange marriages. Today, the festival honours this tradition with a bustling souq that sells everything from camping supplies to handicrafts. For visitors, it offers a full program of events, including horse and falcon racing, Saluki (Arabian greyhound) beauty contests, and a traditional souq where local artisans showcase their wares.
al dhafra camel festival souq entertainment
What Makes a Camel Beautiful?
In these contests, much like Western beauty pageants, camels are judged on temperament, stance, and physical attributes. The judges evaluate the camel’s coat condition, the coveted “droopy lip,” and even the size of its hump. Winning camels can fetch hefty prices—between £250,000 and £1 million—and lead pampered lives filled with the finest care. Their diets include alfalfa hay, dates, and honey, and their coats are treated with premium conditioning products. When transported, camels even enjoy the comfort of mattresses in their trucks!
To enter a camel in a beauty contest, an owner needs either a well-bred calf from a former beauty queen or a prized camel from their own stock. Of course, there’s also the option to buy a “ready-made” beauty queen, and during the contests, impromptu auctions pop up along "Million Street," a broad sand track where owners and buyers gather to trade camels.
The prize-giving ceremony is truly a sight to behold. As the compere stirs up excitement, camel owners and their families cheer, building the atmosphere to a fever pitch. Finally, the moment arrives when "Namoose," the standard-bearer, is announced. The crowd erupts, with men tossing their guthra (traditional Arabic headdresses) high into the air in celebration. Congratulations are offered all around, and the joy and pride of the owners are palpable. It’s a jubilant, unforgettable moment that showcases the deep-rooted passion for these majestic animals and the honour they bring to their owners.
While few owners gain financially from winning, the prestige of owning a champion is priceless.
camels are paraded along the tracks which criss-cross the showground, followed by family cars with children perched on top, holding trophies high, horns blaring, music playing, and joy filling the air.
Victorious
Al Asayel contestant has a word with marina
Camel harness
Prize Money, Cars, and Honor
Prizes for beauty pageant winners start at around £40,000 and can reach up to £1 million for groups of camels. Not long ago, winners were awarded Nissan Patrols or Toyota Land Cruisers, which led to a bustling car market on the final day, where prize vehicles were often exchanged for cash. These days, they are presented with cheques, and this money, in turn, helps owners cover vet bills and purchase essential camel beauty products to keep their animals looking their best.
Types of Camels: A Beauty for Every Taste
Camels are divided into three categories, each with unique judging criteria. The Asayel are gorgeous, beige camels that originate from the UAE and Oman. The majestic black Mujahim, from Saudi Arabia, are large and powerfully built. Lastly, the Wadh, which means “very white,” also hail from Saudi Arabia and have an adorably distinctive look. Personally, I find the Wadh camels the most appealing, due to their cute faces and woolly coat.
Honoring Tradition in a Modern World
Historically, camels were essential for desert life—they provided milk, meat, hair for weaving,
and companionship in a tough landscape. But with modernization, the Toyota pickup largely replaced camels as a mode of transport. Today’s pageants bring new meaning to these cherished animals, spotlighting them as symbols of Bedu resilience and heritage.
Of course, beauty contests come with their own challenges. In 2019, a few camels were disqualified from a Saudi contest for Botox injections—a reminder that the competitive spirit runs high! These days, a rigorous vetting process ensures fair competition: vets examine each camel the day before the contest, checking for illegal substances and verifying their identity through microchips and camel “passports.”
Camel beauty contests might seem unusual, but they are an unforgettable experience. Steeped in tradition yet infused with modernday enthusiasm, these pageants offer a unique glimpse into the enduring heart of Bedu culture—a heritage that remains vibrant, largely thanks to festivals like these. If you’re in the Middle East during winter, don’t miss the chance to attend; visitors are warmly welcomed! After a visit to Al Dhafra Camel Festival, a day out at the Keith Show may never feel quite the same again!
All the single ladies
Camel beauty is big news in uae
Al waddah - white camels
They won!
The winner being annointed with saffron
ROSIE BARRON IS THE TIDY COO
Rosie Barron is The Tidy Coo, a Professional Organiser and Declutter Coach. She is the only KonMari Master in Scotland (a Blackbelt in tiding) and APDO’s northernmost member. She lives with her husband, four Home Educated children and a whole menagerie of animals who all bring her joy. She has a wealth of free resources to help get you organised on her website and social media.
Organising when your brain is wired differently.
Why is it that some people are able to keep their homes in order and others find it such a struggle? As well as differences in the skills that we learn as we are growing up, differences in our brain impact our ability to not only organise in the first place but then stay organised.
I am autistic and in November 2023 I was also diagnosed with ADHD, so I understand how these differences can impact your life. However, organisation is a learned skill, and anyone can learn how to do it. Believe me, if I can be organised, anyone can! These are my top tips for being organised if you have ADHD.
1. Declutter. It is really the only way – you cannot buy your way to a home that is easy to find things in with organising solutions, however tempting. Often at the end of decluttering and organising a person’s home with them, we have enormous numbers of organising solutions that they have previously bought that need decluttering.
2. Make rules. Decluttering is a very intense process and decision fatigue is real. Make rules like, “Any clothes smaller than two sizes can go” to make the process easier.
3. Find permanent homes. You need to choose where your belongings are going to live and be relentless about putting them back there until your body starts to do it automatically. When piles grow, it is usually because the items don’t have homes to go to. Ask yourself, “Where would I look for this?” and then make a home for it there.
4. Store like with like. When you have poor executive function, it can impact on your memory, meaning that you often end up with duplicates. By storing all of the same type of item together, it helps to prevent this. Store your socks with your socks, your food with your food and your books with your books.
5. Reduce friction in your daily life. What would this look like if it were easy? I have the cupboard for my plates directly above my dishwasher and it makes unloading the dishwasher a breeze. We have a rotating four
Images: Laura Walter Photography
week menu to make food planning and preparation easy and it is on repeat in the family digital calendar, allowing me to write the recipes into the calendar for easy access.
6. Keep your to do list visible. Oh it is so easy to forget what you need to do! I keep my to-do list on the lock screen of my phone so that it is always easy to access. Close down apps when you put your phone down so that you don’t get distracted when you pick it back up again.
7. Visual diary. I use the calendar app on my phone to ensure that I can see my diary each week, from important appointments to what we are eating each day. Having it written down allows me to see where the spaces are and then to plan the other tasks around them. Using the app on my phone (and laptop) allows me to write notes in the appointments, including where they are and what I need to take with me. I can even add photos of hospital appointment letters. Then each week I draw my diary out into my planner as using a pencil and ruler onto a physical surface helps to cement it into my brain.
8. Body doubling. This is an incredibly powerful tool when you have ADHD as the accountability side really helps to get things done. Ask someone to work alongside you! My eldest used to constantly work alongside me in my studio when I was writing or teaching. Now that
they are studying at university, we do this over zoom! Once a week we have a zoom call. At the beginning of the call we say what we are going to work on and then we quietly work on that. At the end of the call we tell each other what we have managed to get done and give each other a high five.
9. Use a timer. Give yourself a defined period to get things done, set a timer and race it. How many things can you pick up in ten minutes? How many pieces of laundry can you fold? The adrenaline of being up against a deadline will help your brain to focus.
10. And transitioning…. Hyperfocus is real and whilst in occasionally it can be a blessing, it can be a real issue when you have to move onto other things. Sometimes it feels like my entire life is a side quest! Once again, a timer is useful. If you know that you’re going to need to move on from one thing to something else, set a timer so that you can make the transition more easily.
Remember, if you need further help, you know where we are!
www.facebook.com/thetidycoo
www.instagram.com/the_tidy_coo
www.linkedin.com/in/rosie-barron-a93834173
Mothers Day
Sunday 30th March 2025
That one day in the year when you spoil your Mum and give her a special treat. You should of course not confine it to just once a year because your Mum, Mummy, Mother, Mither or Mother figure has, I’m sure, done many special things for you on many days throughout the year.
30th March 2025 is the day designated as Mother’s Day in 2025 in the UK and Ireland but there are many different dates for very different reasons across the world.
Here Mother’s Day or Mothering Sunday is exactly three weeks before Easter. It is determined by the lunar calendar and is the fourth Sunday in lent. In the Middle Ages, Mothering Sunday was a day to return to the Mother Church where you were baptised. This tradition became a family reunion for those that had moved away from their birthplace and has evolved into the Mother’s Day we know today.
The date for 2026 is 15th March if you want to plan ahead and be super organised.
Kellockbank
Get the garden ready for Spring…extensive selection of seeds and bulbs with new season plants arriving daily. New 2025 menu in the restaurant.
Pop in for refreshments and food after a walk along the beautiful sandy beaches on our doorstep. Your dog is welcome too!
in Lossiemouth Mother's Day
Going on a Gratitude Adventure Part 2
There’s nothing like making a bold declaration to make you then have to rise to a challenge. After stating in the last edition that I was going to ponder the question: ‘is it possible to be grateful for ageing and all that it brings?” I started being challenged almost immediately, in all kinds of ways. But the first that I could connect to ageing turned up on 21st December.
I succumbed to a rapid visit from flu on that date, meaning everything I had organised over Christmas (5 different events) I could no longer attend or had to be postponed. Not to mention I was really ill for at least 5 days, and am still recovering.
The flu vaccine was offered to me because I am over 65. On reflection, it was easy to be grateful in this instance, because I live in a country where the vaccine is offered free on the NHS. But I didn’t get it. Why? Because I thought it was for ‘old’ people, and I didn’t consider myself old.
Ha! Hoist by my own petard. Never again.
I spent a lot of time reflecting on the fact that due to my own stubborn insistence that, despite my age of 67, I am not old, I missed out on
JANE D ROGERS
several events I’d really been looking forward to. Lesson learnt – next year I will say ‘yes’ to the flu vaccine and be eternally grateful I live in a country where we have the NHS, despite its flaws, and that this offer was made to me.
I have also been refining what is known as a ‘gratitude practice’ since the last edition. I know lots of people do this, and one of my favourite ways in the past to shift a ‘blue’ feeling has been to list 50 things I’m grateful for. This can be done just while walking, exercising, doing housework, whatever. Fifty seems like a lot, and it is a lot, but because you’re training your mind to see through a lens of gratitude as opposed to anything else, it gets easier and easier as you go along. If you’ve
never done this before, start with 10 things and build it up. Although you do need to get to 50 in order for the practice to have the effect of changing your mood.
More consistently, I have been writing in a notebook at the end of each day at least 10 things that I’m grateful for. Not only that, but dwelling on how it feels to have the presence of that thing/experience/desire in my life. That bit is crucial. It’s a fabulous way to go to sleep, highly recommended. I know it sounds a bit cheesy, but honestly, if it makes you feel good, does that really matter?
I am now writing a weekly newsletter called Embracing Ageing. If you’d like to read more of what I’m writing, do subscribe to it for free here: https://janeduncanrogers.substack.com/
Support during birth
- By Sophia Hanson
Have you thought about the type of support you’d love on the day you give birth? Do you want your birth partner to fuss over you, to sit back and await direction, or to intuitively just know what will make you feel as safe and comfortable as possible?
Feeling safe, as unobserved and as comfortable as possible will help you and your baby to have a better birth.
You’ll likely have given some thought to your hospital bag but take the time to consider what you want your birth partner to do for you.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
• Know your birth preferences so he or she can speak to midwives (if you want then to).
• Take charge of providing your favourite drinks and snacks.
• Keep the birth space comfortable (music, lighting, atmosphere).
• Giving you soothing strokes massage.
• Be confident and offer reassurance when you need it.
• Remind you to use breathing techniques.
• Hold space for you.
• Be available for whatever you need without complaint.
Make sure that you and your birth partner are on the same page; do you want him to call your family or friends to say that you’re in labour? Or do you plan to keep it quiet and simply announce when your baby is born? Do you want photos shared to social media or do you prefer to have golden time for the first few days or weeks and stay in your own welcome baby bubble?
Dive into what will make you feel supported, loved and nurtured, so that you know you can trust your partner to meet those needs on the day that your baby is born. And, while you’re at it, talk about what will support you want once you and your baby are home again. Think about meals, snacks, pet care. The more you plan, the more secure and calm you’re going to feel.
One last tip, get a thermal cup with a lid, if there’s one thing all my new mums tell me it’s that they can’t remember the last time they had a hot cup of tea because their baby always needs something!
SMILE Scotland
“We recommend coming often” proudly – and without the slightest hint of embarrassmentdeclares the sign in the coffee shop. And I, for one, cannot disagree with this bold statement.
I am sitting in a most delightful, warm (thanks to a magnificent woodburning stove) and cosy coffee shop in the Aberdeenshire countryside. Floor to ceiling windows offer a satisfying view of the rolling countryside and also the welltended garden, although this is wearing its winter coat at the moment. I can imagine it will throw itself into its summer glory with gusto. The coffee is exceptionally good and the food on offer, although not from an enormous menu, is hearty, well prepared and served with a genuine smile.
Where am I? Firmly ensconced in Smile Scotland’s premises situated just outside Oyne. When I was first asked to go along to Smile Scotland I had no idea what I was going to.
The name of the enterprise somehow smacked of well-being and treating yourself. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Smile Scotland is an auction house; but an auction house with a difference. Started in 2014 by three people from completely different backgrounds who saw the need for a charity that could offer work placements to support people into employment who find it challenging to do it on their own. We are open to anyone who lives in Scotland.
From an old, leaking garage in Aberdeen they have grown in numbers (there are now 6 Trustees, 5 staff and volunteers) and are now located in an imposing building in a beautiful setting.
Angela took me on a guided tour of the premises: from the coffee shop to the auction house where both in-house and on-line auctions are held on a regular basis, to the upholstery room where she painstakingly renovates furniture, to the backstage rooms where I meet a staff member who is cataloguing items and then I am allowed to browse in the salvage yard and indoor emporium at my leisure. And what fun that was – glorious antique pieces, old records, garden furniture, clothing and heaven alone knows what more. A browser’s paradise.
You can attend a live auction, buy on-line, arrange for house clearances or arrange for items to be collected from your home, browse both the outdoor and indoor areas and then round everything off with a spell in the coffee shop. What better way to while away some spare time, knowing that you are helping the community and helping Smile Scotland nurture and nourish those members of staff that they have taken under their wing.
That sign is not wrong. One visit is not enough. Winter hours Mon-Fri 10:30am-3:30pm and SatSun 10am - 4pm (9am on auction days)
www.smilescotland.org.uk
www.smilescotland-auctionhouse.org.uk
FITNESS
How exercise has changed my life!
Whilst it does sound cheesy and trite, there is much truth in the oft-trotted out phrase “a single decision has the power to change your life”.
It certainly has with me. This story is all about pain and the debilitating effect that it can have on your everyday life. Four years ago I slipped on an extremely icy driveway, landed awkwardly at an improbable angle and have paid the price of my folly ever since. If you have not suffered from severe back pain, there are no words to describe the pain. It rules your life and takes over: walking becomes an ordeal; standing for any length of time an impossibility; sleeping – well, let’s not go there. Life as you used to know it does no longer exist and pain is the only constant. This of course can lead to a dependency on painkillers, which just makes matters worse.
Thus was my life for four years. I tried physiotherapy, yoga and pilates, all of which helped in a minor way but nothing, absolutely nothing, gave me the relief I desperately needed. I could no longer go for long walks and thus get the exercise my body so badly needed. Talk about a vicious circle.
Then one day I had a lightbulb moment. I was in the Linkwood Road area of Elgin and the next thing I had arrived at the Moray Sports Centre. Perhaps what I had been needing all this time was exercise, pure and simple. Nothing for it but to ask and find out.
I fully expected the receptionist to have a finely raised pair of eyebrows when I mentioned my
age, but no. She didn’t bat an eyelid to find out that I was the ripe old age of 76 and still working, albeit part time. The form was filled in and I was booked in for an introductory session with one of the resident personal trainers. For Friday the 13th, no less!
The day duly arrived and I met the gentleman who was, little did he know it at the time, going to turn my life around. Craig Ross is his name and he is patient, understanding and genuinely interested in all the whys and wherefores that had resulted in me being at the gym. We got chatting and I discovered that he had been suffering from exactly what was bothering me now, although his situation was far worse than mine. So much so that he was confined to a wheelchair and had been in and out of hospitals and clinics.
Exercise had turned his life around and he was now going to do the same for me. Sounds unbelievable, but it is true.
Anyone who has not been to a gym before could easily be bewildered and overcome by
the ranks of weird looking equipment that you see before you. I was a touch overawed and fearful that other folk would be looking at me, assessing the chubby body and having a quiet giggle to themselves. But it is nothing like that. Each and every person that goes to a gym is there for his or her own reason and is not there to be judged. Craig made this perfectly clear as he introduced me to all the different machines and gave me a tour of the gym.
The next time we met Craig had devised a plan of exercises specially geared to my back condition and we went through them systematically. Some of them were just a tiny bit too ambitious at the start but have become easier with time. The most amazing thing is that my back is no longer giving me the trouble that it did and I can stand, walk and get around without a shed load of discomfort. I am strengthening the muscles and, at the same time, breaking down whatever it was that had made them into concrete blocks. There is much truth in the saying that if you don’t use it, then you lose it.
I am now attending the gym twice a week and building up those oh-so-lazy muscles and getting them to do what they were designed to do. If I wanted to, I could go every day, as the membership is so flexible – and not horrendously expensive. You wear whatever you are comfortable in. You can ask for assistance at any time as that is what Craig and his fellow personal trainers are there for. Nothing is too much trouble – and there’s even a brilliant coffee shop where you can meet friends afterwards.
Craig really has given me back my life. And I cannot thank him enough.
Website: www.moraysportscentre.co.uk
Email: hello@moraysportscentre.co.uk
Tel: 01343 610 670
Registered Charity no. SC046059
This is the first issue in 2025 is it too late to say Happy New Year to you all. I hope Santa was good to you all. If not, you could win an amazing Lifestyle competition prize.
We are starting 2025 with more fabulous prizes offered by our generous advertisers.
Four people can be indulged at Delgatie Castle courtesy of the wonderful Joan.
COMPETITION CODES
DELGATIEFOUR
Afternoon tea for four at Delgatie Castle
CEAMARA100
£100 voucher for Ceamara photography
SPORTSMEMBER
An annual membership for Moray Sports Centre worth £330
ARABIAN100
£100 travel voucher for Arabian Cities and Sand
SMILE2020
£20 gift voucher and £20 café voucher for Smile at Oyne
Capture that special event or the special people or fur babies in your life with a £100 voucher from the award winning Ceamara photography.
Was your new year’s resolution to get in shape? An annual membership for The Moray Sports Centre valued at £330 will do the trick.
Once you have worked on that perfect body a £100 voucher from Marina of Arabian Cities and Sand will help you book a fabulous holiday.
Last but definitely not least, a trip to Smile at Oyne could be yours to spend a £20 gift voucher in the shop and then sit and enjoy a cuppa and piece with another £20 voucher for the café
I hope one of your new year’s resolutions was to remember to add the competition codes and all your contact details on your e-mails and postcards Good Luck!
Delgatie Castle Turiff
Email competitions@lifestylemoray.scot with your name, address and contact number or send a postcard to: Lifestyle Magazine, 5 Green Lane, Newmill, Keith AB55 6NX
Remember your competition codes and please send multiple entries on one card.
Terms & conditions: All Lifestyle competition prizes are kindly donated by Lifestyle advertisers. There is no entry fee, one e-mail or postcard with the relevant codes is all that is necessary. Winners are chosen at random by a computer generated programme. There is no cash alternative available. Names of winners will be published in the following issue.
Congratulations to our Dec/Jan winners.
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