WT December 2010

contents

december 2010

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The Gratitude Diary

We have a bunch of women who are eager to say thank-you to anything – a person, an event, even a moment!

Gracias!

Despite both sexes battling for supremacy, the uniqueness of their relationship has always kept them together into a harmonious co-existence.

Woman Today invited men from different walks of life to express their gratitude towards those women who have touched their life in some way or the other.

32

Starting Young

34

Why do kids have to learn about thankfulness? Teaching your child to appreciate and thank the good things in life paves the way for a happy and contented adult.

Land of Opportunities

While recession has hit most countries, Qatar seems to be sailing smoothly so far. We spoke to expatriates in Doha to find out what brought them here and explore what they love about Qatar.

worldwidewomen 18

A Journey through Poetry

A descendent from a long line of Makkan scholars, Saudi poet Nimah Ismail Nawwab speaks of her passions outside of poetry and the art of giving, in a hearty conversation with Woman Today.

52 around town

A Hand that Soothes

Woman Today reviews the experience of a relaxing massage at the Ozone Gym and Spa, La Cigale Hotel.

36 health & fitness

16 work wise

Buttering up the Boss?

42 style stop

A healthy relationship with your boss can get you ahead in your career. Bayt.com offers you tips.

Body A method to finding Beautiful Types life’s purpose Almost all of us have a distorted image

Carolin Zeitler explores ways of deciphering the extraordinary purpose of the life of an ordinary woman.

of our body. Nicole Van Hattem gives her advice on how to love and celebrate your body.

Holiday Heart Warmers

We look back at our fitness suggestions from 2010 and bring our ‘best of’ series, courtesy of the fitness staff at Six Senses Spa, Doha.

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December 2010

VOLUME V / ISSUE 11

december 2010

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Yousuf Jassem Al Darwish Chief Executive Officer Sandeep Sehgal Executive Vice President Alpana Roy Vice President Ravi Raman

Managing Editor Vani Saraswathi Deputy Editor Sindhu Nair

assistant Editors Ahme d Lotfy Ali John Hunt

fashion and lifestyle

correspondent Orna Ballout

Editorial Co-ordinator Cassey Oliveira Contributor Shalinee Bharadwaj Art Director Venkat Reddy Asst Director – production Sujith Heenatigala

assistant Art Director Hanan Abu Saiam

Senior Graphic Designers Ayush Indrajith

Sampath Gunathilaka M D

Managers – Marketing Mohammed Sami

Zulfikar Jiffry Senior Media Consultant Chaturka Karandana

Media Consultants Victoria Ferraris HASSAN REKKAB

Marketing research &

support executive amjeth ali Accountant Pratap Chandran

sr. distribution Executive Bikram Shrestha

Distribution Support Arjun Timilsina Bhimal rai

Published by Oryx Advertising Co WLL P.O. Box 3272; Doha-Qatar Tel: (+974) 44672139, 44550983, 44671173, 44667584 Fax: (+974) 44550982 Email: wtoday@omsqatar.com website: www.omsqatar.com Copyright © 2010 Oryx Advertising Co WLL

Address all your correspondence to Woman Today, Oryx Advertising Co WLL, P.O. Box 3272; Doha-Qatar Tel: (+974) 44672139, 44550983, 44671173, Fax:(+974) 44550982, email: wtoday@omsqatar.com. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for advertising contents. Licensing/ Republishing WT content: To obtain permission for text syndication in books, newsletters, magazines, newspapers and web or to use images/pictures carried in Woman Today, please contact our syndication and licensing department on the numbers given above. Permission is also required to photocopy a WT article for classroom use, course packs, business or general use. Custom reprints: Published article/s to be used as stand-alone pieces can be reprinted by us on special request. The reprint cost is based on the length of the article and the quantity ordered. Contact our custom publishing division on the numbers given above for more information.To subscribe to Woman Today call our subscription department on the numbers given above.

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December 2010

FROM THE EDITOR

We wake up with a plethora of reasons to complain about the day ahead of us; and through the day, we probably work hard at proving we were right about all those reasons we have listed.

Whinging can become a habit – an addictive comfort that provides instant salve. Be it the traffic on the road, visa regulations, lack of parity in income, the extra weight we carry – most of us are never short of things to be unhappy about.

However, the truth is, we almost always have more to be happy about, if only we cared to make a list of that too...

Being sceptical and grouchy is equated with being realistic. If you are happy, then it is assumed that you are either tripping on something or have a vacuum up there. A rather sad world we live in, if this were actually true.

Since summer I have been maintaining a gratitude diary. I carry a notebook with me, and every time there is something good, I put it down. Every time I am overwhelmed by an issue, I try to find something else that soothes me, and put that down too. I replaced my daily journal with the gratitude book – a conscious decision to focus on what is good and not to record all that bothers or upsets me.

So what better way to bring the year to a close than to record our thanks for all the events and people in our lives? We invited colleagues, readers and contacts to write thank you notes, and what a wonderful collection of memories, emotions and experiences we have gathered.

One of the women in the team sent me this: “I got so many things to be thankful for :) thank you for making me write this and also for giving me a reason to contemplate.”

We do hope you get an opportunity to contemplate and to count your blessings. Can’t we aspire for better things? Of course, we can and must. Perhaps, we can work towards that better day, without deriding the life we lead right now.

And a loud hip, hip, hurray to the team that brought back the winning bid. Time to get working folks!

Vani Saraswathi

GO GREEN

letters Women and Arts

Nokia E63

Woman Today invites readers’ feedback Share your views on the magazine or any issue connected to Qatar.

One lucky reader will win a Nokia E63.

Write to: The Editor, Woman Today, PO Box 3272, Doha Fax: (+974) 44550982, email: wtoday@omsqatar.com

Woman Today reserves the right to edit correspondence. Views and opinions expressed in the published letters may not necessarily be that of the publication’s.

Comic Tale Hanadi Hassan is hilarious! I can say that after being one of the fortunate members of the audience who attended the Karak Talk event last month. Her sense of humour gave the male comedians a run for their money.

I was also pretty surprised to find that the article on her in Woman Today magazine actually had a similar opinion about her. Being Qatar’s first female standup comic, Hanadi is sure to make the women in the country proud.

Laila Jassim Healthy eating I am a health freak, and I simply enjoy reading anything and everything about health. The article ‘Get Slow’ in Woman Today November issue was like a print of my

Prizes sponsored by:

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This year I made it a point to attend the splendid Doha Tribeca Film Festival and was awed by the display of talent and dedication for cinema among the filmmakers as well as the audience, during the five-day long cinematic journey. Moreover, I was immensely thrilled to have found a story about the growing power of women in the film industry carried in your lovely magazine. Women share the same passion as their male counterparts, be it in any field. This fact is soon turning into a reality, as reflected at the film festival where several women filmmakers proudly presented their commendable work.

I look forward for reading many such inspiring stories of women, in your magazine.

Fatima Rehan

December 2010

daily routine. I am generally tied up with work, that I don’t even get time for myself. The article proved to be a great advice.

Also, the recipes mentioned in the articles looks yummy and a must-try. Speaking about food, the review of Porcini restaurant makes for a compelling visit to the restaurant for some delicious Italian cuisine!

Lucy Miranda Fun Reading After a gruelling day at work, Woman Today magazine is like a dose of fun and relaxation. I enjoy reading the ‘in short’ section – it’s peppy, crisp and quite informative.

This month covered an impressive theme of ‘Women in Arts’. It was great to read snippets about women who have made a mark in the creative field.

The tips on a ‘Girl’s Night In’ was helpful. I will surely apply them, the next time I meet up with my gang of girlfriends.

Nancy Mark Woman on Top I was just reading through a copy of Woman Today and was amazed at the mention of the accomplishments of women in every field. Women have surely come a long way from being home-makers to bread-winners.

From the first female designer of Mosques, to the First Qatari female stand-up comic to the talented bunch of female film-makers – women have made a mark everywhere.

I am proud to be a woman!

Reena Dayyal

Slug

name

Farewell Flu!

Are your lips PINK?

W

e all are born with pink lips, but with time they tend to get blacker. Reasons could be heavy application of lipstick, sun exposure, excess consumption of tea or coffee or perhaps allergy. Getting rid of dark lips is no big deal. Just follow these simple tips: Use your toothbrush as an exfoliator to get rid of the dead skin cells off your lips. But be gentle!

Before stepping out in the sun, make sure to apply a good lip balm with SPF 15 to protect against sun rays.

Use a concealer before applying lipstick. Also, make sure your lipstick is of a good brand.

Avoid smoking and consuming caffeine – two potent causes of dark lips.

Drink, drink and drink several glasses of water. It always works wonders!

Get back your lip colour, ladies!

Give

R

unny nose and a sore throat can simply ruin your day. But popping pills is not the only way out. Try some simple home remedies which are sure to keep the flu away:

Have honey mixed with a quarter tsp of cinnamon powder daily for three days. This will work against that nagging cough and also clear the sinuses.

Drink ginger tea – 2 tbsp of fresh grated ginger in 8 ounces of water.

Ginger tea is antiviral and helps break up the mucus and congestion.

Make a drink by adding a teaspoon of cumin seeds to 8 ounces of boiling water. Let it seep for a few minutes, strain and drink.

Gargling with salt water helps relieve the pain of a sore throat.

Dairy products are known to cause the body to produce more mucus.

It’s advisable to avoid all dairy products when you have flu.

Hot

your feet

chocolate

Prancing up and down in heels is every woman’s innate behaviour. But at the end of the day, your feet demand care.

Healthy foot care includes a soothing soak in warm water with a little salt for 15 minutes. Rub your feet with pumice stone to removes the dead skin, sweat and bacteria that come out of the 250,000 sweat glands in the feet. You not only eliminate foot odour but also relieve stress throughout your body.

Apart from sheer pleasure, hot chocolate is shown to contain a whole lot of anti-oxidants which help in battling aging as well as reduce the risk of heart disease.

Making a cup is easy: Heat a cup of milk in the microwave for 2 minutes. Mix in 1/3 cup of grated chocolate, 1 tbsp sugar, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Then add a whisked egg to the mixture.

Heat for another 3-4 minutes and your hot chocolate is ready.

some rest

Say hello to happy feet!

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December 2010

anyone?

Yummy!

Forget about your calories for a day!

short

in

Soak your almonds

A dry winter

Planning on popping in almonds, soak them in water before you do so.

Soaking almonds help in removing the toxic enzyme-inhibitors present in the brown skin which make them difficult to digest.

Eating 4-6 soaked almonds every morning helps enhance your memory.

A paste of almonds soaked overnight in water

It’s winter and you would want to make a dash for a hot shower. Stay Back!

Hot showers can strip a person’s skin off its natural oils. This natural oil barrier is what protects the skin, trapping moisture so that skin can stay smooth and moist. Be careful while you scrub too – it takes away the needed moisture. As a result, your skin turns dry.

Opt for slightly cooler showers and don’t forget to use a body moisturiser after that.

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December 2010

or milk, and saffron is a best source of energy for pregnant women.

Make an almond face scrub by grinding almonds soaked overnight in warm water together with fresh cream, to exfoliate the dead skin, keeping it soft and supple.

So many benefits, in a nut!

Bloody Beets

B

eet roots are powerful blood cleansers and builders of blood. They are loaded with vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and C. They are also an excellent source of calcium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus, sodium and iron. It's iron content is of the highest and finest quality, even better than spinach, which makes it an excellent food for blood building. Consuming beets is a good way to fight acidity, varicose veins, anaemia, ulcers and constipation.

Remember not to overheat beets, or else all the nutrients get destroyed.

Did you know: Betacyanin is the pigment in beet that gives it its rich ‘amethyst’ colour.

Sleeping in style There are four general ways of sleeping – on your back, abdomen, and left or right side; and each position has its own effect on your body.

Try to avoid sleeping on your left side as it puts stress on most of your internal organs such as your liver and lungs. Sleeping on your right is comfortable and will also help you in overcoming hip and spinal concerns.

Sleeping on your back work wonders for your body. It gives your internal organs more space to breath. If you are suffering from pain in your lower back, place a pillow under your knee to maintain the natural curve of your body.

Sleeping on your tummy is not a very good option. The internal organs don’t have the space for breathing or expanding since your ribcage is trapped and you are placing pressure on it.

Choose your position, before a sound sleep.

wise

work

A method to

finding life’s purpose

Carolin Zeitler explores Aisha’s story...

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December 2010

I

have always thought of myself as quite an ordinary woman. I do my job, I raise my kids, I try to keep my marriage happy, like so many other women out there. And like so many other women, I have always had this nagging voice in my head that said, ‘What are you here for? What is the purpose of it all?’

So I tried to find the answer, I tried to make sense of it. I made a list of things that could help me determine my purpose in life: My skills and talents maybe they were given to me for a reason.

The people I met maybe they crossed my path to show or teach me something The culture I was born into maybe that was a good place to put down roots.

The cultures I came into contact with maybe there were bridges to be built, connections to be forged.

The things I enjoyed doing maybe they had something in common that could give me a hint.

My deepest values and beliefs maybe I was meant to find a way to put them into action.

I gave myself a week to explore each point, so six weeks for the whole list. I took a lot of notes, answering questionnaires that I had designed for myself, finding reading material on each point, talking to family, friends and colleagues about their thoughts and experience.

I filled a whole notebook with thoughts, personal stories, anecdotes, pictures and quotes.

Then I spent two weeks just going through my notebook, putting ideas into movement and action.

Finally I am dedicating a weekend completely to my quest. My husband is taking care of the kids and I am in nature on my own, my phone is switched off, there are no other people here. I have been fasting for three days, so the distracting thoughts of food have now stopped popping up in my head. I enjoy the fact that I can think things through completely, from one end to the other, without interruption. I try sitting down while I’m thinking, I try walking around while thinking, I try to lie on my back and look at the clouds and I try to run and skip, finally I go for a swim. I notice that certain thoughts weaken me/make me tired, while others give me energy. So I try to stay with the energising ones, confident that they are more likely to lead me towards defining my life’s purpose.

By the evening of the first day, I have realised that the life I’m living already offers me a lot of opportunities to be creative. My job gives me the freedom to implement my ideas, my family have always been supportive of my creative expression, my husband is there

I spent two weeks just going through my notebook, putting ideas into movement and action

for me, even when I want to go off on a quest like this one.

Whenever I meet a challenge or come across adversity, I open my mind and become creative, I create a solution or at least an approach.

Observing the world and the people around me inspires me, it leads to anything from a little surprise for one of the kids to a new business idea. My colleagues and friends approach me whenever they need fresh ideas and I am more than happy to supply them.

Could that be my life purpose? To express my creativity in service to others?

‘I was put on this earth to serve my environment by expressing my creativity.’ I like it!

fun, go crazy, imagine things that would make a great difference, even if they don’t seem realistic right now.

(When I first had the idea to organise a conference it didn’t seem realistic either – but by and by, as I bounced it off to my friends, saw their enthusiasm for the idea and more and more people joined me, the How Women Work Conference became a reality)

One definition of success is... ... that you have opportunities to be creative, to bring something new into the world and/or improve something that already exists.

Flow

What did Aisha do to make it happen?

How can that apply to your life?

She just went ahead and created a ‘method’ for finding her life purpose.

She allows herself to express her creativity.

She observes the world around her with alert senses and lets it inspire her.

Key behaviours: Attitude Have confidence in your own creativity and resourcefulness. Give yourself credit for good ideas, no matter whether they improve the world in a small way or a big way.

Interaction Bounce ideas off to each other with your friends. Have

Let your values and objectives be your guide, they give your creativity direction and purpose.

Look around you. Opportunities to be creative are everywhere.

Whenever you use something that is not functioning as well as it could – or should – there is an opportunity for you to improve it.

Whenever a dish you have cooked many times begins to bore you, there is an opportunity for you to spice it up.

Whenever an outfit looks too drab, there is an opportunity for you to add a dash of colour with an interesting accessory.

Whenever anything is less than ideal or does not exist yet, there is an opportunity for you to be creative!

Have fun!

The writer is the Director & Founder of Arcata Interactive Communication Coaching and Initiator of the How Women Work Conference. She combined the skills and experience she gained from being a Personal Coach, Dance Therapist and Managing Director for many years to create unique coaching programmes that inspire, encourage and empower people to make a difference. For more information please go to www.arcata.cc -Every month, until February 2011, Carolin tells us a story about a woman’s success and reflects upon what we can learn from it to broaden our own view of success. Then, in March 2011, the second How Women Work conference, powered by Woman Today, will be themed around success as well, to allow us to tackle the subject in a more interactive manner 2010 December

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wise

WORK

Buttering up the

boss

No. But it helps to keep an open and healthy relationship, to get ahead in your career.

Y

our relationship with your boss can be a wellspring of growth possibilities if nurtured properly or a career minefield if left to go sour. Maintaining a good professional relationship with your manager can make all the difference in the type and quality of projects that get sent your way, in your career advancement, in your relationship with others in the firm and in your overall reputation in the industry even after you leave the firm. Take the time to work on this relationship and follow this simple checklist provided by the career experts on the Middle East’s #1 job site bayt.com to keep you on the right track.

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December 2010

Perfect Your Role

Y

our relationship with your manager will – to a very large extent – be determined by your overall professional skills, attributes and success at the job you are doing. A manager will take far more pride in the employee who constantly produces quality work, meets deadlines and is pleasant to work with. Perfect your job by knowing exactly what your manager’s objectives for the position are and then exceeding expectations. Always aim to go the extra mile to show that you are truly dedicated to the position and that you take your career very seriously. This can include volunteering to help others when you have time, taking on additional projects when you can afford to, cultivating unique skills and coming up with new ideas to improve performance, win clients or cut costs. Building a reputation for yourself as someone who does the job extremely well, is professional, pleasant and always goes the extra mile, will reflect just as positively on your boss.

Communication

T

Reverse Feedback

Y

our boss has a boss and deadlines too, so learn to make his/her life a bit easier by sending some reverse positive feedback when you can. Avoid the false superficial kind of schmoosing but DO compliment or thank your boss whenever you can – on something taught to you, a course sent to you, a project sent your way, a project not sent your way, a tip given to you or some other form of constructive criticism made, a resource assigned to you, a deal they landed, a client they made happy, a new idea, etc. They will appreciate the flattery if it is genuine and delivered professionally. They will also be more inclined to help you in the future if you are appreciative of the steps they take to guide and promote you.

Manage Expectations

he importance of building an open dialogue with your manager cannot be overemphasised.

Maintaining an open channel of communication with your boss is one of the key ingredients of a successful long-term relationship. The goal of these communications is to build a professional rapport, gain visibility and ensure an unhampered flow of information about the firm, the unit, your own performance and any problems, concerns, issues, accomplishments on either side.

O

nce you have a good grip on the job requirements and have a solid relationship with your boss in place that is built on trust and mutual respect, you can begin to manage your boss’s expectations regarding the quality and quantity of your work. This is an essential damage-control tactic if you are to avoid many of the pitfalls that are essentially the result of poor assertiveness skills. Learn to tell your manager that you are overburdened (only when you are of course). Use words like ‘we need an additional resource’, ‘I have to prioritise’, ‘I have a more urgent deadline’, ‘I don’t want to compromise the quality of the project’ to communicate your own time schedule and your existing workload. Always have a list ready of projects you are engaged in and their priority so your manager can more easily plan the projects he sends your way. You should focus on being ‘productive’ rather than merely ‘busy’ so your manager learns to respect your prioritisation skills and general work aptitude.

From the Career Experts at Bayt.com, the #1 job site in the Middle East with more than 30,000 employers and over 3.5 million registered job seekers from across the Middle East, North Africa and the globe, representing all industries, nationalities and career levels. Post a job or find jobs on www.bayt.com today and access the leading resource for job seekers and employers in the region.

2010 December

19

women

worldwide

A

Journey Through Poetry Saudi poet Nimah Ismail Nawwab speaks of her passions outside of poetry and the art of giving. In conversation with Vani Saraswathi.

“... to mature, grow and flourish in a barren wasteland of shackled minds” - The Longing Nimah Ismail Nawwab had a privileged upbringing – and we are not talking materialistic comforts.

Born to parents with eclectic taste, who were ahead of their time in terms of attitude and convictions, they provided the foundation on which Nimah could build her future.

A published poet, descended from a long line of Makkan scholars, Nimah is unafraid to sound her opinions, however controversial they might be. At the same time, she is willing to see the opposing point of view. Like she does on the niqab (veil).

“Has she missed a prayer?

Has she been a disobedient daughter?

Cheated, lied, stolen,

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December 2010

Beaten a child, an animal, been cruel to another soul?

What did she do?

Her scarf slipped, An unforgiveable transgression, In the eyes of the controller.”

Gentleness Stirred Nimah does not wear the niqab, neither does her mother who lives in Makka. She has strong view of cultural practices overshadowing religious ones. Yet, in another poem in the collection Unfurling she tries present the view from behind the veil.

“Some think I am hiding Underneath my long black cloak Does my cloak, my masked visage

Long viewed by outsiders with pity, Barricade me from the world?

Or does it open up vistas of wonder...”

The Hidden Layers She was invited by VCU-Q to speak to and interact with the students. The above was one of the poems that came up for discussion. The kind of emotions and views that the veil elicits is amazing, says Nimah.

“I was trying to envision what it was like for women who do cover their faces. It is just not about the physical, but all the emotional aspects of niqab. At that time, I didn’t have a single friend who wore the niqab, so it was challenging to write about it.”

But in this poem, the niqab is spoken of as a matter of choice, but is it really? “When I talk to them, it is amazing, how many have made that choice. Each individual has a reason. For some it’s family or societal pressure, some it is a choice, some it is religious.

The last I have my reservations about – but there are

different schools of thought on that. Even in the Hajj you are not expected to cover you face – but you see them veiled, and it’s very strange.

“It’s a matter of choice – whether it’s the veil, the abhaya or the hijab.”

In the generation her mother came from, it was not the norm to be unveiled. Yet, she chose to do so.

Her mother, she says, was ahead of her times in more ways than one.

“I don’t want to use the word ‘progressive’. But it’s little things – she exposed us to healthy food, she was into exercising, was a teacher before she got married. She lived abroad with my father, who was a professor (in Edinburgh, after which he returned to Saudi Arabia and joined the private sector).”

Her mother has also affected Nimah in another major manner that defines who she is today.

“Over 25 years she has been volunteering every day. She would spend time either at a hospital or with orphans or volunteering as an art teacher. I am into volunteering as well – particularly youth empowerment. I headed relief efforts in Jeddah, when there was a huge flood, combining the efforts of various groups, because I was very much into organising, and I like structure. This helped me mentor a lot of the young people. I identified the strengths of the volunteers, and channelled them in the right direction.”

She relates this passion to growing up with a mother who believed in giving.

“That comes from belonging to a middle class family. We were not rich. My father is a self-made man.”

Her parents have been the most important influence in her life. “I owe my parents everything. I may have moved on, but the seeds were planted by them.

I know I am doing that as a parent now. My father exposed me to writing - he used to read Shakespeare to me. He exposed me to classical music, to photography.”

She realises the kind of mentoring that her parents extended to her is not freely available to a large section of the youth today. Which is why, she takes great interest in mentoring young writers, artists, and students. “I help them network, put them in touch with each other. We have a lack of mentorship and a huge gap between the generations in the Gulf region as a whole. The gap between the younger and the older generations is getting wider and wider, and we need to take note of that.”

Her son and daughter – for whom she had put her career pursuits on the backburner – study abroad.

As a Saudi and Muslim studying in the West, they have a challenge of not only maintaining pride in their identity, but also in conveying the right response to uncomfortable queries. There are difficult questions being asked of Arab youth, and not all of them are equipped to answer or react properly to it.

Her kids’ exposure to global culture is what holds them in good stead, she says. “They are avid readers,

Nimah heading relief efforts for flood hit jeddah

and they meet people whom I associate with from around the world. I never ask people three things – their age, faith, marital status. These are personal questions. We debate, get them to meet people, expose them to diversity. You learn a lot from the older generation, just as my father allowed me to meet his peers, I do the same with my children. Whether they are in agreement on the views or not, at least they are aware of different streams of thought.”

“Will they be understood, Their talents appreciated, Their ambitions fulfilled, Or will they be controlled, Belittled Unable to grow and bloom.”

The Coming What she writes in her poem is what takes up a lot of her time in reality, with mentoring.

“The youth are exposed to things different from what we were. Their challenges are different. And if they are unable to understand that, we cannot hold a dialogue with them. It is not about debating the rights and wrongs, but to accept that the life they lead is different from what we understand. I do that through my mentoring.”

In her packed day, late into the night is when she finds time to write poetry. She writes in English, because: “I always write in English. Think in English.

Dream in English. I know this because my husband tells me I speak in English when I am dreaming.”

Her poems are not about herself, or of her experiences, and her favourite muse or themes are to do with war, political discord, the Palestinian intifada...

“Writers, poets, artists, their mindset is such that they can work and be true to themselves. Even if they feel there are limitations and boundaries, that impede their work, they will still continue to give.

“I’ve been asked why I don’t write about myself.

Until about a year ago – when I started writing my spiritual pieces, that’s when I felt I was writing about myself. My connection to God.” That is the next thing to expect from her, a book of poetry on spirituality, and the sequel to Unfurling 2010 December

21

The Gratitude Diary Dear Baba, As my father you wanted the world for me, but much more than that, you wanted to see me happy.

I choose to write this letter to you because there is something I never told you. You are my hero, Dad! I wish I had not hid my emotions. There were times when you would hug me and I would secretly tear up.

It was always so hard for me to look you in the eyes and tell you how much I respect you for giving up your life to make our lives better.

I remember as a girl when we would hide in shelters during the war in Lebanon. I would cry to you on the phone while you were in New York and your comforting words always made me feel safe. You worked so hard to save our family from danger and brought us to the USA for an improved life. “I want to see you educated and successful.” That’s what you would say to me anytime I thanked you for a new pair of shoes or the dollar you gave me to buy candy.

Thank you for being so tolerant when you had six

A person, an event, a thing, a moment... What are you thankful for?

mouths to feed, five kids to put through college, plus the struggle of moving us from a small apartment in Queens to a safer neighbourhood. Look at us now, Dad! We are all educated and successful. I’m sorry I didn’t say thank you sooner.

In the last six months, my life has changed tremendously. Winning the crown of Miss USA has opened my eyes, awakened my spirit and changed my outlook on life. But most of all, it has made me realise how much you mean to me. No matter where I am, you still call me before I make a speech to make sure I am well-prepared. Thank you. I am sorry for not always communicating my emotions or experiences and pretending everything is great, when we both know it is not.

Recently you told me you still wake up in the middle of the night and smile when you remember your little princess is Miss USA. I loved hearing that and tears rolled down my face. I have tried many times to scream out how much I love you and how thankful I am for you. Now it is happening: I LOVE YOU BABA! Always your little princess,

kih a Fa Rim

I would like to send my gratitude to a writer WHO has changed my life, Agatha Christie . According to the Guinness Book of World Records, agatha is the best-selling writer of books of all time. I was always looking at the sky and hoping that one day I can be a small star next to her. Who said that you cannot meet the person if you are in different lives. I can assure you that I still do every time I open one of her stories, I also had the honour to meet her in MadamE Tussauds museum.

Jawaher Al-Khuzei Dohaland

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December 2010

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Thank you, dear parents, I am forever grateful for the lessons you taught me in my younger years.

Although I was close to Mum, Dad and I didn’t have a great bond. There were constant disagreements, which I blamed on Dad’s expectations of Mum who worked full time, managed the household, played ‘peace maker’, while bringing up children.

However, as I learned more about human behaviour, I recognized my parents were totally responsible for their life choices and I also had a choice: either continue to blame Dad or forgive him, and accept both parents for who they are as well as the wonderful lessons I could learn from them. And there were many: forgiveness, patience, love, compassion, non-judgment, strength etc.

My parents gave me invaluable gifts. Dad crystallised my career path, supported by soft skills I learned from Mum. I’m eternally grateful to them for my life lessons, which now helps me to assist others to live an empowered, rewarding life.

Jeanine Bailey Executive and life coach. She is co-founder of Empower People (specialists in human development), based in Qatar and Director of Papillon International (empowering people to live a brilliant and successful life).

What am I thankful for?

Coffee.

When I was growing up I was told coffee was for grown-ups.

Perhaps that’s why I thought I was so sophisticated as a 20-year-old, meeting my friends for coffee in the city on a Saturday morning. Over lattes we’d dissect the previous evening. Did you notice who was there? Wasn’t the music terrible? Was he really talking to her? Newspapers were shuffled, careers were planned, exams passed and failed. As the day went by second and third orders were made. No mortgages, husbands or children to worry about, no ageing parents.

By my late 20s, a coffee was a date or a suggestion. A coffee could be the beginning of a relationship or the disastrous end. “I think we should talk, shall we meet for coffee”? On my first date with my husband at the end of the night he asked, “would you like to come in for coffee”? I declined and then kept my fingers crossed for a week that he’d call.

In my 30s, it was an on-again off-again relationship with decaf, four children in six years can do that to a woman.

Joining the expat world meant coffee mornings, which I soon realised really meant new friendships.

Where can I find Huggies? Does anyone know of a good hairdresser? Did you know the Williams family; they used to live in Libya too?

When I arrived to meet my friend for coffee this morning she ordered a milkshake, I raised an eyebrow and she said, “I don’t drink coffee”, that’s when I realised, the coffee is irrelevant, its the friendships, the experience that is an event.

Now, let’s have coffee.

Kristy Rice

2010 December

23

This takes me back to the year 2007 when I lost my father to a terminal illness.

About the time he passed away, I was diagnosed with a medical condition but thankfully it was not terminal. My road to recovery was trying but thanks to my mother and two elder sisters, I received the best care and support that any patient could hope for. If anyone were suffering, it was not me but my family because they had to deal with the grief of losing my father and then they had to be my full-time care giver for six consecutive months. My medical condition and the treatment process were made a lot more bearable because of the efforts of my mother and sisters. Despite the ordeal, I still feel that life treats me well as things could have been worse. I count my blessings having who I have in my family including my father, if only he could hang around longer...

Christina Sim

Thank God for being generous with your blessing, for my ability to walk and talk, for giving me the brains to think and imagine.

Thank you God, who stood by my side and surrounded me with great people, my mom and my family and my beautiful girls. I am grateful for every problem that I faced as it was a lesson to learn from, for being able to forget and forgive too.

For the faith He planted in my heart, for fate that keeps on changing, my job where I fulfilled my dreams. For the heart that beats, for the house and food, for every tear and every laugh...

(Can we really count God’s blessing?) Thank God for me, for being who I am and that I am alive.

Lisa Tahabsem Director of Marketing & Communications Oryx Rotana-Doha

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“Gratitud greatest e is not only the v parent o irtues, but the f all Marcus Cothers” ic December 2010 ero

There are so many things in life that I am thankful for – family, friends, colleagues, work, pets, school, etc. Life is tricky and not how we always want it to be but it is these flaws that make life beautiful and make us appreciate things.

Having lived in Qatar for almost two years by myself, it has not been always easy for me – a lady living by herself with her dog! (single ladies, you know what I mean!). The thought of leaving the country is always crossing my mind. Yet I am thankful to my colleagues and friends who have given me a reason to stay this long (I think two years has been quite long).

The country is like one community of people reaching out and helping each other. I have always found assistance whenever I needed one.

I am thankful to my mother who, together with my aunts and uncles (during the time when my father got sick from 1989 to 2003), has brought up me and my two sisters very well. I think my aunt probably became a spinster because of her dedication to take care of us – her nieces! But my mother is the most hardworking woman that I have ever known and has achieved so much as a mother and a public servant. She has definitely inspired me to work hard, not just to meet the daily needs, but to become an inspiration to my own son and to the community.

Victoria Ferraris Team Woman Today

Sometimes you have the opportunity to meet people that change you. Not often do you get the chance to meet your mentor in your life. To many a mentor is often someone who has helped you to be a better person, a teacher to many that has shared a moment or a dream, for me I did meet her and she did change me forever, and I am forever grateful.

When I first met her, her pale blue shirt matched those of her kind eyes, full of wisdom that she has given to the plight of the young Ethiopian women. Dr Catherine Hamlin who chose to work in Ethiopia for 60 long years. As we sat in her gorgeous little home in Addis Ababa, she was remembering and talking about our native Australia.

She was a true breath of fresh air and this was one moment I captured with her and one that showed me how to ignite my passion.

By many in Ethiopia, she is just simply called, “Saint Catherine”, though she shuns away from this notable name she has been given, as she said to me, “I just love my Ethiopia, I love these women, they are the poorest of the poor and really, they have no one.”

She has inspired me to educate all women about her work, about her passion for these women of the intrepid lands of Ethiopia. Firstly, I am woman, a mother, a wife and then I am the woman that met her mentor; my dreams are now open because I have found and ignited my own passion for myself and for all women.

Kimberley Sheedy

Thank God, he created the family, a group of people who love each other not because they are nice and not because they are sweet and funny, but because of blood. I thank God for every single member of my family. My Dad who always encouraged me to be what I am, my Mom who set my standards, my Brother who supported and advised me, and at the beginning and the end my Husband with whom I share my whole happy life. I can’t imagine life without a family – how still, how lonely, how sad, no one to love unconditionally? No one to support you without blaming? No one to run to when fed up and tired?

Nobody to care?

I wish every person is aware of this blessing. Love your family and give them all your attention and time, because one day you will realise that nothing is worth, but their love.”

Donna Doss British Council

Owner, Starfish Lane Kids Nurseries An Ethiopian Journey – a journey taking 10 women residing in Qatar to Ethiopia Mother of Paris 15 years and Indigo 6 years Wife to Eric from Germany

“Thank God” for being the daughter of two very loving, caring, and supportive people. My parents enabled me to experience many things regardless of how much they sometimes worry.

They gave me everything they possibly could and even some things they probably couldn’t afford. My two sisters and I lived with our parents in dignity. They took care of us and gave us what we need financially as well as emotionally and spiritually in order to grow into wholesome, well adjusted and capable individuals. My Parents are my only true best friends with whom I share my deepest thoughts and troubles. I ask God daily to look after my parents and grant them all the health and wealth they deserve.

Nicole Nehme

2010 December

25

Dear Me, Thank you for being YOU! How many times I have written these exact words to my family and friends yet I’ve never given myself such whole-hearted appreciation? As etiquette gurus will agree, it’s never too late to say thank you, so consider this a long overdue “merci beaucoup.”

In reflecting on my newfound appreciation, I realise that I’ve taken you for granted and, frankly,

haven’t treated you the way you deserve to be treated. I’ve subjected you to constant, restrictive dieting since you were 13 years old (remember the cabbage soup diet?), and then punished you for failing to adhere to a certain number on the scale or fitting into a size 6. Not only have I deprived you of calories and guilt-free eating, but I’ve also deprived you of proper sleep, the right to say “no” and the pursuit of your life’s purpose. The bliss of complete self-acceptance has eluded me for years, resulting in ME trying to shape YOU into a reflection of what I think others want you to be. For this, I owe you a deep, grovelling apology and a lifetime of repent....

Through my atonement, I’ve started to realise how fabulous you actually are (what took me so long?). You have a reverberating strength, combined with a capacity to expose your vulnerability. You have a way with words, and the ability to inspire those around you when you take the stage.

You’re so darn organised and well-prepared, which makes your high-speed lifestyle a relatively smooth ride. Your flexibility, curiosity and sense of adventure have resulted in thousands of enriching experiences around the world. You’re a loyal, thoughtful and generous friend to others, always wanting to give more than you receive. You treat people fairly and

equally, cognisant of each individual’s worth and your impact on those around you. Most importantly, you’ve demonstrated that you’re capable of change, having taken several difficult decisions to move yourself closer to the life you are meant to live.

You’re capable of recognising your mistakes and, eventually, accepting and appreciating yourself.

So, my beloved self, this is why it’s taken me so long to write you this thank-you note. I’m always quick to thank others for their efforts, but haven’t really believed that you deserved such appreciation.

I’ve been too busy trying to morph you into a bland, people-pleasing gal with no curves or spark. I can only imagine how this has made you feel – in fact, I know exactly how it feels. I’m trying to change by recognising my flawed self-perceptions and working on self-acceptance. As you know, I’m not perfect, so I might slip-up on occasion, but I thank you in advance for sticking by me.

Thanks for being you, Christina. I don’t know what I’d do without you.... ini ina Z Christ

Love, Me.

Thank God! It’s morning – resplendent and glorious!

Thank God! I start and end my day listening to the deep contented breaths of my sleeping kids and innocent faces that sometimes smile in slumber.

Thank God! I have something to look forward to at the beginning of every new day.

Thank God! I still remember some basics-adding without a calculator, drawing without Illustrator, writing without a keypad...

Thank God! I can appreciate the greenness of the grass, the brightness of the flowers, the shapes in the clouds, the magnanimity of the mountains, the vastness of the universe and the humbleness of our planet, the smell of first rain drop falling on the soil, the magic that lies within a leaf, the silence in the jungle, the fear of the unknown, the light outside the tunnel, the chants of a flowing river or a family together...

Thank God! I know the meaning of politeness, justice, mercy and forgiveness.

Thank God! I can face anger, jealousy, bitterness and lies.

Thank God! I have a home in the land of my birth where I can go whenever I want and feel the strength in my roots.

Thank God! I can see the world, hear the birds, smell the roses, hold a baby and walk the miles.

Thank God! For giving me LIFE! Shalinee Bharadwaj Team Woman Today

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December 2010

Why am I thankful that I am female?

Well I could go all earth-mother and say I love the fact that my body is a vessel of life or that I am proud of the progress women have made through the centuries or something deep like that. But let’s face it – these are not things you or I think of and are thankful for on a day-to-day basis. I am talking of the kind of thoughts that float in and out of our minds like goldfish. Randomish; but real and true. They may seem trivial and off the wall but they are things I am honestly thankful for. Here’s my top ten in no particular order: Reason 1 The fact that every 28 days or so I can be as cranky, irrational and teary as I want and no one thinks I have lost my mind, instead my husband goes out of his way to be sweet, caring and gentle.

Reason 2 Lingerie and high heels – if ever there were a reason for me to be grateful I am a woman it’s these. Men would look ridiculous in them but women can carry them off with such oomph.

Reason 3 Soap operas. My life can shut down when it’s time for Grey’s Anatomy or Glee and no one raises an eyebrow.

Reason 4 Hand moisturiser. I can have tubes of it in my car and no one thinks I am strange.

Reason 5 When I feel a tad lazy, I can get away with leaving any heavy chores undone and just look helpless.

Reason 6 Mild bouts of depression can be cured with chocolate, coffee with girlfriends and a visit to the salon, oh and retail therapy.

Reason 7 I am my kids preferred choice for cuddles (more cushioning!)

Reason 8 Women are so much better at multitasking. It’s something to do with our internal wiring but women can get so much more done in 24 hours than men can.

Reason 9 Long phone calls, texting sessions and online chats – men don’t get it but it’s something women love doing I am grateful for it Reason 10 I can do everything a man can do if I put my mind to it and then a bit more too.

So yes, I am ever so thankful I am a woman.

Nadira Mendis Amarasinghe

You know who you are.

You are the person that picked me up when I was down.

The teacher without a title, who helped me to see that there is amazing potential inside each and every one of us – even in me!

The one who gently held the mirror up to my behaviours and thoughts so that I could see how I was hurting myself.

You led me when I needed to follow.

Your voice harmonised with mine when I thought I was singing alone.

When it was dark and I feared the unknown, you shone the light around the corner so I could see the next step.

When I cried you let me cry until it was time to dry my tears.

You showed me how to express gratitude and you gave me so much to be grateful for.

My joy was your joy.

When I needed a push, you encouraged me forward.

As I rushed headlong towards danger, you gently held me back.

When you couldn’t save me from myself, you picked up the pieces.

In me you see the light, you celebrate the light, you dance in the light.

I’m grateful that I know who you were and who you are.

You are many.

Nicole van Hattem

2010 December

27

Slug

name Thank you to the makers of alarm clocks with snooze...

Without you, how would I have lived up to my long-lost virtue of punctuality? And for the snooze, how else would I have derived the pleasure of those extra five minutes of nirvana?

It is in my nature to thank people for whatever they have done to me, irrespective of how big or small it might be.

But it’s been quite a while since I have thanked certain people who have brought wonders to my life, despite being oblivious of my existence. Pardon me for being ignorant about their names (thanks to my frail IQ), but my gratitude towards them still holds value.

So, here it goes...

Thank you to the makers of a social-networking site like Facebook (for me it’s Mark Zuckerberg, regardless of what the movie Social Network has to say)...

Without you, how would I have otherwise satiated my devilish pleasures of peeking into the lives of my friends and total random strangers?

Thank you to the makers of heeled shoes...

Without you, how would I have escaped being dwarfed by the presence of some 5 feet 10 inch acquaintances I know?

Thank you to the makers of chocolates...

Without you, how would I have quenched my heart’s desire for those sweet pieces of bliss, slowly melting away in my mouth?

Thank you to the makers of colour television...

Without you, how would I have painted my black-and-white life with entertainment?

Thank you to the makers of cars...

Without you, how would I have framed an excuse for me being lazy to walk that extra mile?

Lastly, thank you God for endowing the aforementioned with intelligence...

Without you, how would I have basked in the creativities of these geniuses?

(P.S. Thank you to Woman Today for this theme on Gratitude...

Without you, how would I have thanked them?)

Cassey Oliveira Team Woman Today

Imagine a world where there is neither a harsh word, nor a hurtful action?

A world where everything is exactly how you want it.

A world where every wish comes true, and you have nothing but goodness surrounding you.

And now imagine, how imperfect, redundant and stagnant that world would be.

A world without challenges, growth and hope.

A world so boring, there wouldn’t be a reason to spring out of bed and holler out: “Give it to me, and I’ll give it back.”

Every day I thank those who care to disagree with me.

Who call my bluff, or contradict what I say.

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December 2010

Who put me in my place when I cross the line.

Who tell me I am wrong, so I learn the value of being right.

Who tell I am not good enough, so I know that there is so much more I am capable of.

It is them whom I think of with total gratitude. The tough boss, the angry teacher, the critical colleague... They teach me every day that just being is not enough, and every dawn is an opportunity to be one step ahead of where I was the previous day.

Vani Saraswathi Team Woman Today

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Dear Bibi Aunty, I hope you are happy with your family because you, who have spread so much happiness and cheer in our lives, deserve it. Your love, especially to my younger one (who was just a year old, when I left her in your arms), was from the heart. You are the one reason I could concentrate on my work without worrying unduly about my home front, because the moment you came home, you took over and was conscientious in what you did till the day you left.

You have had a difficult life but never let it affect you. You were away from your family for more than 20 years and I hope you rediscover those moments you have missed. I remember you telling me about leaving your new-born son with your sister before embarking on a journey miles away to the “country of dreams”, aiming to go back as soon as you had made enough money for your family to live comfortably. But “enough” is a very relative phrase, and there was never an end, sister’s wedding, kids to be schooled and fed and husband’s business to be expanded, were all matters that you had to deal with. And now finally, you have decided that you have HAD enough. And so you are back where you belong, with your family.

We all knew this was inevitable, that you would leave us someday soon, but that did not stop us from hoping that you would be a part of our family, always. To say that we miss you immensely would be an understatement. Each one of us, in our own way, miss the love and warmth you brought to our lives.

My younger one remembers the way you put her to sleep, singing lullabies in your language. And though she never understood a word, she sings the same song whenever she remembers you. My elder one constantly reminds me that her Bibi aunty never lost her temper, like I do and rather frequently too, these days.

My husband, your ‘Saab’, misses the way you coaxed an extra spoon of rice into his plate.

And I miss you, every minute. When I leave home for work, when there is no one to wave as the door closes, when I sit down for my lunch every day and there is no one to say, “Bhabhi, you have to eat in time”, when I come home and make my own cup of tea. For me, you were like a mother, someone who genuinely cared.

I firmly believe that for a woman to work and to give her best at work there should be someone at home to substitute her, to take care of children in her absence in a way only mothers can. And if I have progressed in my career, I think I owe a part of the success to you...

Thank you, Bibi Aunty for being there when we needed you most.

Yours truly,

Nair Sindhu

Team Woman Today

I am glad to be here in this world, to have had – and still have – all these opportunities; opportunities to make a difference, opportunities to learn and develop, opportunities to interact with inspiring people, opportunities to have my survival skills, opportunities to overcome adversity, opportunities to get to know my limits, opportunities to grow stronger and more whole every day, opportunities to be the best I can be, opportunities to show and experience empathy and love, in many guises.

I am deeply grateful to all of you who have touched my life.

And I am especially grateful to my parents for opening my eyes to see all these opportunities and opening my mind so I can make the most of them.

Thank you!

Carolin Zeitler

2010 December

29

I sooo love being a Woman... unapologetically.

I proudly walk through life with grace and fierce passion, unapologetically.

I deeply care and stand for my loved ones and for my community, unapologetically.

I define myself according to my truth that comes from my divine identity, unapologetically.

I’m so free, I’m a Woman.

I speak my truth from my heart's centre and I share my emotions, unapologetically.

Dear Mostafa,

T

I live my dreams and I express my creativity, unapologetically.

I’m so wise, I’m a Woman.

I am connected with infinite wisdom and I listen to the subtle inner voice guiding me, unapologetically.

I commit to organising my life around the realisation of my greatest potential, unapologetically.

I’m so irresistibly beautiful, I’m a Woman.

I exude a rare mysterious and divinely luminous beauty, unapologetically.

I feel comfortable in my Goddess body and I express my raw sensuality, unapologetically.

I’m so grateful, I’m a Woman.

I’m fascinated with how synchronicity works in my favour, unapologetically.

I love how the universe takes care of me with abundance, unapologetically.

here inside a safe, locked away in the basement of a bank, lies a 13 year old lock of blond hair. It rests inside a box. The box is small yet heavy, as all pure gold objects are. It is no ordinary box, it is meant to be the protective cover for a miniscule Quran.

The lock of hair is a curl. Its newness defies time. Fingering it takes me back to the early days around the time when my life changed forever. The curl is magical: when I smell it my surroundings fade away, and my eyes see the past re-enacted.

In no time at all, I am reliving the miracle, unfurling the unknown that was to become my life.

When, for the first time, a life stirred in my womb, nothing was the same again. I still remember your little limbs kicking me from the inside – how I would stare unbelievingly at my bare tummy taking weird shapes whenever a foot pressed on a certain spot or an elbow pushed another. The sensation is still vivid in my mind even after all these years. I used to talk to you when I was still carrying you inside me. I remember how I used to turn the key into our flat’s front door, heavily pregnant, and say something like ‘Yalla ya Mostafa, let’s get in’. I was yearning for you; my son, my companion, to arrive into the world and be there for me.

I still remember how special you made me feel when I found out I was carrying you. All of a sudden I was this precious being carrying a precious cargo. I entered a club which I barely noticed its existence let alone appreciated how exclusive it was; the motherhood club. Your father and I found out about you on the last day of Ramadan, the Eid eve.

The streets of Cairo were insanely busy; people were doing their last-minute shopping.

A few minutes before closing time, we reached the lab; a bored-looking couple with a referral letter saying URGENT. There was none of the usual excitement couples display when doing a pregnancy test. In our case, we were just following a doctor’s instructions; completing a formality he had insisted upon. He needed to know for sure that I wasn’t pregnant so he could freely prescribe medicine for

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December 2010

I’m so lucky, I’m a Woman.

I honour my needs and I treasure making my pleasure my priority, unapologetically.

I’m deeply and unapologetically authentic, transparent and vulnerable, yet, I’m so strong, I’m a Woman.

I claim my crown, my Divinity and fully show up in life in all my radiance, unapologetically.

I graciously offer sunglasses to people uncomfortable with my bright light, unapologetically.

I sooo love being a Woman... unapologetically.

Senami Apithy

my complaint. We were, both your father and I, a million percent sure there wouldn’t be a baby. After more than two years of hoping for a baby we’d almost lost hope that this was ever going to happen. Nevertheless, we reluctantly agreed to make that awkward visit to the lab and get an official ‘all clear’ so that treatment could start.

The staff working at the lab had had their hearts set on leaving a few minutes early and get on with the week-long Eid leave. They half-heartedly took their coats off again, shuffled heavily back to work. You can probably guess how long the few minutes we spent in there seemed at the time, before somebody came back with the results.

Somebody handed the Manager a note. She read it and looked up at us with a smile. ‘Mabrouk’, she said. We just stared at her in silence for what seemed like a lifetime till your father, collected as ever, thanked her, took the report and led his speechless wife out of the lab.

In this state of shocked, amazed, pure joy we faced the maniac drivers of Cairo once more. We joined others skilfully negotiating their way through hundreds of cars stuck in an almighty jam. We were mostly quiet; too stunned to speak. But I remember us joking that after all this we might get run over by one of these morons now.

I have hazy memories of the birth – nothing much apart from the incredible pain

Thank you for being a woman in the 21st century

Luisa Gentile Vodafone Qatar – Head of Corporate Responsibility

According to the 2010 Global Gender Gap Report, recently published by the World Economic Forum, we are in a unique turning point in history where the world is moving toward greater equality between men and women. Although there is much to do, there is more understanding around the need of growing to be an inclusive world, of integrating women and becoming gender-balanced .

On a positive note, worldwide gaps are narrowing between men and women’s health and education. In the development world there is an increasing attention towards girls’ education. In Qatar, the ratio of the female literacy rate is 90.4 percent and it is much higher compared to the male literacy rate when it comes to tertiary education.

More and more countries request women to be included in the participation in politics and business. Several private organisations, and I am proud to work in one of those, are willing to provide equal opportunities for female employees by also considering our diversity.

I feel blessed to live in a period where we are not necessarily restrained because of our gender, where our talents are acknowledged and that we have a proper space in fields previously reserved for men.

and the doctors having a nice time by the looks of it – chatting and laughing away in a corner of the room. At least that was what I saw them do whenever the drugs let go of my consciousness, allowing my mind to grasp the extent of the overpowering pain.

The only person – apart from myself, of course! – whose face and behaviour let out that a major event was taking place in that room was the midwife. I can still feel her hands on my tummy; messaging rhythmically down towards my navel, rolling something out. At the time I naively thought it was the baby she was trying to squeeze out. Now I think she was probably ridding me of the afterbirth, so you must have already been born.

All of that may now be shrouded by a blanket of haze and immersed in the smell of pethidine. Not the look in this wonderful creature’s eyes on our first encounter.

When I close my eyes now, I can still see it: that look you gave me when we first met. I woke up to find myself miraculously changed and in a hospital bed. I kept asking: ‘khalas?’ Is it over? And my mother and sister and husband would say ‘Don’t worry. Khalas’. To which I would instantly reply ‘Khalas Khalas?’ Is it completely over? That would trigger many chuckles and more assurances. We kept at it for a few minutes till someone said: ‘Ok, open your eyes now Nouran. It’s OK. Meet your baby. Meet Mostafa.’

You were in a tiny cot parallel to my bed. You had just entered the room. You looked at me and gazed into my eyes and when I reached out my left hand to you, you did the most amazing thing: you gave my pointing finger one sharp little squeeze, never letting go of my eyes. There was no doubt in my mind then and there is none now that you were speaking to me. You were saying: ‘Ah...there you are! I’ve been looking for you everywhere...I know you. I have always known you.

We’ve been through this together. I am the only one who knows how you’re feeling now. Well done.’

It was an electric bolt. Never could such a tiny creature give out such a tremendous wave of support.

I would hold you close and inhale the scent of your babyhood. You smelt like you; like Mostafa. You smelt so real.

Fast forward to when you started nursery. You loved your little lunchbox and would happily toddle to the front door to greet the driver who would pick you up from our flat in Sharjah, take you down on the lift to the mini bus and drive you and your tiny mates to nursery.

I would sit you on my lap during these final few weeks of my second pregnancy.

Those were the days when you and I became really inseparable. I had known we had reached the final few pages of the last chapter of this part of our family life story. When ‘Baby’ meant Mostafa, and no one else.

You taught yourself how to cycle at the age of seven. As someone whose childhood was dominated by cycling, I was especially proud.

But then, you make me proud every day. I sometimes look at you, pocketing your mobile phone and bus card and rushing off to school, and I wonder at the miracle of seeing my baby turn into a young a man before my own eyes. I watch you with your friends, both here in London and in Egypt, I follow your interest shifting from R&B to rock and then back again, I listen to you talking and thinking aloud; so level-headed, so naturally balanced and sensible, and it hits me how lucky I am, how grateful to be given the chance to know you, Mostafa, and to play a role in shaping this adult-in-the-making.

Love, Mama

m n Salla a r u o N A British/Egyptian based in London, Nouran works as a TV presenter. While on a short business visit to Doha she came across Woman Today November issue and sent in a letter addressed to her first born, Mostafa. “It was my present to him on his last birthday. If you like it, you’re welcome to use it,” she wrote, and we are glad to.

2010 December

31

“The notes that I handle are no better than many pianists. But the pauses between the notes-ah, that is where the art resides�

Arthur Schnabel A musician

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By Shal

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December 2010

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k you for n a h T ! y Mumm g me at all supportin times! ou are y w o n k Mom! I e to me, but being nic at all moms isn’t it whosed to do? are supp

T

hese two statements summarise why we need to talk about thankfulness in kids? Do they need to thank us? Appreciating the good things in life and thanking those responsible for it is an attitude when cultivated, goes a long way into making your child a happy and contented adult.

As part of their learning process, children can be trained to search for a silver lining in any situation and to appreciate the windows in their lives. We notice what is broken, what still needs to be done, what we want but don’t yet have. But few of us would really reflect on what’s ours and be grateful. The obstacles that seem to block our way are golden gateways to achieving gratitude that grows in pauses. A musician, Arthur Schnabel once said, “The notes that I handle are no better than many pianists. But the pauses between the notes-ah, that is where the art resides.”

Gratitude vs. entitlement It’s easy to fall prey to the trap of ‘the obvious’. While many people in the world would feel an overwhelming sense of amazement and gratitude to have a tap with clean water right inside their house, it is an ‘obvious’ thing to some. Most kids grow up feeling entitled to their parent’s care. That means if not taught gratitude consciously, kids fail to become appreciative or

enthusiastic of things or situations leading to feelings of disappointment and frustration.

With teenagers it becomes a difficult task as at this stage they want to break loose from authority and want to be recognised as independently thinking adults. Role modelling by parents is the most beautiful form of teaching attitude of gratitude.

When we can understand feelings of entitlement as a barrier to gratitude we have taken a good first step to increasing our own appreciation in life and passing that on to our children. Sharing positive insights on our people and possessions can aid in strengthening the bond between you and your kids.

Making gratitude a habit Count your blessings: Have a minute of thanks in the morning or dinner time or before going to bed. You and your kids can name a few things they are thankful for. Whether the list includes a favourite toy, a good grade, or a hug from Grandma, this tradition will start the day off in a positive frame of mind.

Moderation pays: Give your child the best but give it in moderation. Getting too much stuff whenever they want, whatever they want will dilute the gratitude impulse for the belongings. Let

them value what they may possess.

Set a good example: The values your children espouse as their lives proceed aren’t those that you nag them into learning, but the ones they see you living out. Do not hesitate to thank the person who cleans your house or the waitress at the restaurant or the cashier at the grocery. When your kids see you expressing thanks, they’ll do so too.

Find the silver lining. We’re all tempted to see the glass half-empty from time to time and kids are no exception. When you hear your child complaining about something, try to find a response that looks on the bright side. It’s called an “attitude of gratitude” for a reason-it’s about perspective more than circumstance. Often, kids and adults alike are unhappy than they need to be because they’re overlooking positives for which they should be grateful.

Simple feelings of being blessed – ”I go home to a warm bed. There’s food on my table. I have running water and I can take a hot shower. I am blessed” – can be magically powerful.

Just imagine how different life would be if you adopted this attitude and passed it on to your children!

2010 December

33

Home Away From

Rebecca Parker

The Expat Story

While most countries are experiencing one of the worst recessions of all time and work opportunities are scarce; Qatar is faring comparatively well. This small country commands the second highest GDP in the world and proves to be an attractive place for expatriates with its tax-free benefits and luxurious lifestyle. We spoke to various people working in Doha to find out what brought them here and explore what they love about Qatar.

Name: Edgar Vaudeville Age: 31 Nationality: French Position: PR and Events Manager, W Hotel Doha I’ve been working for the W Hotel for the past two years; it’s a really happening place and has been an exciting challenge for me as I was part of the opening team. I’m so grateful for working here as I love the lifestyle, culture, sea, parties and how the sun is always shining. The best thing is the chance to meet such great people and attend awesome events like the WTC. Name: Can Kartal Age: 26 Nationality: Turkish Position: Finance & Administration Manager, Promer Qatar Contracting Co. WLL Business potential in Qatar is very high and there are lots of work opportunities for my company. I love the social life; as the city is discovering itself, it is always offering new forms of entertainment to people on a regular basis. I’m forever grateful because I’m learning about different business concepts whilst living a luxurious lifestyle and the warm weather is brilliant.

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December 2010

Giuseppe Ciccarello Name: Mondo Medina Age: 31 Nationality: Swiss Position: HR Manager, Aspire Academy for Sports Excellence Despite the current global economic climate regarding employment, Switzerland has been marginally affected by this and the country is financially stable.

However, I have always wanted an opportunity to live and work in another country and learn about different cultures. ASPIRE Academy for Sports Excellence has given me this opportunity that matched my professional background and my passion for sport. Doha is growing rapidly and is now a world recognised destination to visit. It’s a great city to make contacts; a very safe place to live and a bonus is the climate is very pleasant throughout the year.

Edgar Vaudeville

Mond o Med ina

m Ire

Name: Irem Cuvalcioglu Age: 29 Nationality: Turkish Position: Interior Designer, Zeynep Fadillioglu Design

gl u cio l a Cuv

There are still many opportunities in Turkey for my career. However, I’ve been working in Qatar for the past year because the Government invited ZF Design to work on some of their projects. I’m currently the Project Manager here which is really beneficial for my career. I’m grateful as Doha is a calm, peaceful and safe city. I love meeting interesting people, learning about new cultures and having the chance to attend such amazing events like the DTFF, WTC, football games and exhibitions.

Name: Rebecca Parker Age: 23 Nationality: English Position: Beauty Therapy Teacher, Tajmeel (Qatar International Beauty Academy) In England, many people are being made redundant and it can be a struggle to find work.

Luckily, I trained in the Yorkshire College of Beauty which the Qatari Government deemed as the best in the world and selected to open the first beauty academy in the country. When I was presented with the offer to work here, I jumped on the chance. I’ve been here for two months and I’m grateful as I love the culture, sun and surroundings. The lifestyle is very opulent here but, for me, the best thing is the amazing people I’ve met and all the adventures we have together discovering this fantastic country.

Ca n K

artal

Name: Giuseppe Ciccarello Age: 27 Nationality: British/Italian Position: Sales Executive, Firefly Communications I dislike the weather in the UK and opportunities in Doha are far greater. I am always grateful for the chance to broaden my horizons and work and play in an unusual culture that I am not used to. The quality of life here is better than the UK given the nice things to do, especially for expats. It’s nice being able to live comfortably whilst having fun at the same time. Arabic cuisine is one of my favourites and the weather is a massive bonus.

Ca Demet

Name: Demet Calgin Age: 26 Nationality: Turkish Position: Contract Administrator, Sky Oryx JV I have been working on a project constructing the New Doha International Airport for the last four months. It will be one of the biggest airports in the world and as the Middle East is constantly developing, I thought it would be a great opportunity for my career. Even though Doha is a small city there is always something fun to do with friends and a big bonus is that it’s always sunny.

lgin

2010 December

35

Slug

name

M

y gratitude goes for my mum, who brought me into this world. I want to thank her for dedicating a great span of her life to raise me, educate me, and help me become an independent, successful person in life. I always remember all the generous care and love she bestowed upon me since I was a kid, taught me good manners and how to react calmly and wisely to all evils that I may face in life, and is still supporting me with her prayers and endless stream of love. Needed to mention that my mother’s taste in dress and colour matching have left their fingerprints on my style as a fashion designer.

I want to thank my elder sisters whose high taste in fashion, and love for clothes has launched in me the same affection, and helped me understand better how women think, what women like, and what their preferences are.

My thanks go to the notorious Diva Chanteuse Sabah for she stood up as a turning point in my life.

The first dress that I sketched on paper at the age of 11 was a close imitation of what Sabah was wear-

ing on TV. I was touched and moved by her ultimate elegance at that time and by her vigour and youthful image even when she was at the age of my late grandmother. She inspired my designs. In March 2008, on Mothers’ day, I was able to host Sabah here in Doha in my first fashion show.

I also express my gratitude to Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al-Missned, for her ultimate elegance and undoubted charm that are an inspiration to me and many other fashion designers and stylists worldwide. She has kindly set a new dress code for wearing Hijab paired only with high taste and ultimate elegance. As a designer, I learn the basics of elegance and refinement from her. I want to thank Her Highness for all her relentless and enormous efforts she has generously put in the domains of Education, Scientific Research and Women & Child Rights.

Ali Beydoun, Fashion designer

gracias!

Behind every successful man there is a woman.

An old adage that has not mellowed in its meaning or significance. Modern times have seen Mars and Venus battling for supremacy but the uniqueness of their relationship has always kept them together into a harmonious co-existence.

Woman Today invited men from different walks of life to open up and come forward to express their gratitude, recognising the efforts of the women who have touched their life in some way or the other.

M

y gratitude is for that one lady who brought in an encouraging change in my life and career. Zainab, in the HR department recognised my potential and helped me in getting a job when I was still a fresh biology graduate. She gave me the first step to be part of the real life. When I decided to change my career stream to media and communication, she again stood by me and supported my move when the others closed their doors on me.

I will always remember what she has done for me, to which I am truly appreciative.

would like to thank my sister who stood by my side from the day I graduated from school. Although I was willing to continue my education, I didn’t have enough money as well as the enthusiasm to go to the university. My sister pushed me and even supported me financially to continue my education. She found a job for me where I started as a salesman and now I have progressed to become the brand manager.

I want to thank her as she is the best sister that anyone could have!

Jassim Hussain Media Coordinator, SCH

Hussien Al-Kilani Brand Manager, Al Mana Fashion Group

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December 2010

I

A

I am grateful to Azmina Patanwala, my first boss for motivating me to join Time Life- AOL Time Warner in 1999. It changed my life and made me believe in the fact that it’s up to you to make it or break it in life.

My next woman boss, Eileen Wallis introduced me to the fascinating world of art and sizzle. She helped me connect once again to my Indian roots and traditions that I am very proud of!

My present boss, Zeina El-Dana – MD of Z7 Communications is yet another fascinating woman. To me, she is perfection and class personified. I am grateful to Zeina to have believed in me and putting me on the fashion map of the Middle East!

As I put it in my words – “A woman’s beauty does not lie in her aesthetic appeal, but in her ability to invoke love, compassion, peace and harmony in a man and this world”

woman is the one who dares to show she cares. She teaches a man what love and caring is all about! A woman is the one who helps a man give birth to life, give birth to a child! I have been blessed to have some wonderful women in my life who have helped me become a better man!

Firstly my mom, who gave birth to me and taught me to never give up and never look back on the past or let it affect your sensibilities, to move on as life has much to offer. I will be eternally grateful to her for instilling in me the values and principles that I have grown up with and the foundation on which I have built my life on.

My friends Farah, Sarah, Dave, Ana, Monica and more (in random order) have all added loads of spice to my life and I am grateful to all of them for helping me connect to the real Shawn and in understanding myself and the reason for my existence on this planet.

In the last nine years that I have been working, I had the privilege of mostly having women as my bosses.

T

o imagine that a “soul” can be exploited, ruptured and dismissed only because of the physical structure it is caged-in, generates serious human distrust.

And yet, shouting evidence of atrocities on the ‘lesser gender’ for weakening, cleansing and breeding ethnicity is not uncommon. Given a chance, I would like to trace resilient axons of those tarnished bodies that stubbornly carried a message of hope and recovery.

To one such suffered soul in my ancestral chain for whom, even if I exhume the archives of my memory, all I can retrieve is an echo of seismic vocal cords and silence every time she is remembered. I owe this unquantifiable sense of gratitude towards her for teaching us the fruits of harmony while protecting from the psychological trauma of civilisational nightmares, under those year-defining wrinkles.

Dharmendra Ghai Project Manager, Healthcare IT, HMC

Shawn Stephens Account Director, Z7 Communications

D

ayanthi, my wife, has been a very good influence and inspiration to me. I have learnt a lot about family values, respecting seniors, fulfilling our duties towards our parents from her. She maintains a very close relationship with both her family and my family. She has been very kind to my parents to an extent where they will even believe her over me!

Like any other girl, she would like to go shopping. However, it will mostly be to buy gifts for our loved ones. I sometimes question her as to why she won’t buy anything for herself but it’s her caring way of thinking.

Dayanthi has been brought up with all the luxuries in life. But that has not stopped her from being a simple and a humble person. She is even more qualified than me and very competent. She was doing a great job before we moved to Qatar and was loved by everyone at her work place. She has given up all that to join me in Qatar and I sometimes feel the guilt about her career.

Her approach in life has made me a better person.

Even before we married, we were best of friends and she will always be my best friend.

Sanjay Ihalagama Manager Compliance, First Gulf Bank, QFC Branch

2010 December

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fitness

health&

Don’t compromise yourself.

You are all you’ve got Janis Joplin

Beautiful Body Types

By Nicole Van Hattem

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December 2010

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lmost all of us have a distorted image of our body, often due to the importance our culture places on external appearance and the onslaught of media images of airbrushed models and celebrities. On a daily basis, we talk to ourselves in ways we would never speak to another. Imagine speaking to a child the way you speak to yourself about your body. It would devastate and squelch a child. It affects you too, causing stress and emotional pain in your body, which can make improving your health or losing weight even more difficult.

Think of all the intelligence, creativity and time you spend on improving, altering and judging your appearance. Who would you be and what could you accomplish if your valuable resources weren’t used this way? Constant emphasis on the external makes us discount the great presence and intelligence that is housed by the body. It makes us forget the magic of our internal rhythms and fail to acknowledge the beautiful bodies we have.

The body you have right now is incredible. It never misses a heartbeat, it maintains homeostasis and it miraculously digests whatever you put in it. It is your instrument for expressing your creativity, intelligence and love. By focusing on the 1 percent you don’t like or wish was different, you may be ignoring the remaining 99 percent about your body that is beautiful, unique and delightful.

Celebrate your body What would your life be like if you were simply at peace with the body you have? You may wish to make your body healthier and stronger, but could you do that out of love and respect for your body instead of the opposite? Could you begin to treat yourself with kindness, to limit the negative self-talk and to

reconnect with your inner wisdom?

Take a minute to imagine what that would feel like. It would mean celebrating your body rather than punishing it. It would mean nourishing your body rather than depriving it. It would mean a chance to watch your body flourish when treated with care and respect.

Food Focus: Sweet Potatoes Sweet potatoes are on everyone’s mind this season.

They seem to go hand in hand with the holidays, and fortunately, eating these and other sweet vegetables needn’t be limited to this time of the year.

Cravings for sweets can be greatly reduced by adding sweet vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, yams, parsnips, beets, squash, turnips and rutabagas to your daily diet. Sweet potatoes elevate blood sugar gently rather than with the jolt delivered by simple refined carbohydrates, so there’s no energy crash after you eat them. Much higher in nutrients than white potatoes and especially rich in vitamin A, sweet potatoes offer a creamy consistency that is satisfying and soothing. They are healing to the stomach, spleen, pancreas and reproductive organs and help to remove toxins from the body. They can increase the quantity of milk in lactating women and can lessen cramps and premenstrual symptoms. If you don’t have any sweet potatoes in your kitchen, go out and buy some (organic and local if possible) and make the recipe below The writer is an Executive Wellness Coach and Co-Founding Director of Art of Abundant Living. Her passion is to support people as they create their best life in abundance and balance. Art of Abundant Living provides Corporate Wellness Programmes, Executive and Career Coaching, Nutrition, Cooking and Lifestyle classes, and one-to-one wellness coaching that transforms lives.

Recipe of the Month:

Sweet Potatoes with Lime and Cilantro

Prep time

Serves

10

4

minutes

Cooking time

30-40 minutes

Ingredients: 4 sweet potatoes 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro 2-3 limes butter or olive oil, salt (optional)

Directions:

1

Wash the sweet potatoes and bake them whole, in their skins, at 375 degrees until tender, about 40 minutes.

2 3

Wash and chop cilantro leaves.

When sweet potatoes are done, slit open the skin and place on serving plate. Season with salt and dots of butter or a sprinkle of oil, if you like, then squeeze fresh lime juice all over, and shower with cilantro leaves.

2010 December

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fitness

health&

Holiday

Heart

Warmers With Winter upon us it has never been a better time to finesse that fitness routine and we look back at our fitness suggestions from 2010 and bring our ‘best of’ series. You can do all of these exercises either at the gym or in the comfort of your own home.

As its winter you want to fire up the body and build internal heat with the following simple exercise routine courtesy of the fitness staff at Six Senses Spa, Doha.

Oblique Swing Sitting in an upright position, take a weight ball/ weight/heavy book and hold it out directly in front of you. Keeping the arms straight, swing the weight slowly toward your left side and hold for three seconds. Return to the starting position, and continue to swing to the other side. Maintain effectiveness by keeping the movements slow and steady, concentrating on keeping your abs tight through the whole exercise.

HOW MANY? 10 swings to each side, remembering to hold for three seconds on each side!

Back/Shoulders/Sides Standing tall, raise your arms above your head. Interlace your fingers and point towards the sky. Shifting your weight into your heals, push your hips forward and reach to your right.

Push your hips to the left. Hold for 60 seconds, relaxing into the stretch with each breath. Repeat to the other side.

SAFETY TIP – to protect your spine, try to keep your hips and shoulders facing straight on, even if it means you cannot stretch too far!

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December 2010

Goblet Squat Hold a weight at chest level with your pinkie fingers facing the sky. Keeping your arms parallel to the ground and feet at hip width, perform a squat. Bend your knees and aim to have your thighs parallel to the ground. Return to start position. Perform three sets of 15 repetitions each, with a 30-second break in between each set.

Reverse Push Up For arms like Arnie, or at least a toned upper body, assume press up position, holding a light weight in each hand. Instead of pressing to the ground, bring one arm up to your chest, and return to the ground.

Repeat with the opposite arm. Maintaining balance by holding in your core muscles, continue this for 15 repetitions. Take a 60-second rest and complete two more sets.

Keep the winter fitness regime in check next month and burn of those holiday season kilograms with January’s ‘Fat Burner’ exercises.

Exercises provided by the staff at Six Senses Spa, Doha (www.sixsenses.com) 2010 December

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style

r a e w I y n n a n i C ple sk pur ns? jea

n li Rama t up. a n o S . dy ien ng dow fashion quot i t t e g n n’t mea to keep your s e o d how g old Growin a few tips on shares

“C

an I wear purple skinny jeans?” – my forty-something sister asked me one season when coloured jeans were in fashion. Purple being her favourite colour, she was uncertain if it was appropriate for a woman in her mid 40s to wear bright colours.

A lot of women in their late 30s and mid 40s have this fashion dilemma and wonder what is age appropriate clothing?

When you were a teenager you wanted to fit in and yet were desperate to stand out and be noticed. Why is it that once you are a certain age, society dictates how you should look and dress? You don’t look or feel old, yet you can't get away with wearing clothing identical to the teenager next door. Neither do you want to dress like you are attending a PTA meeting every day.

There is no rule that says that, once you

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December 2010

get older you should wear drab polyester pantsuits and sensible shoes.

So what happens to those of us who like ‘younger’ clothing? Well, as you grow older you begin to know yourself better and you instinctively know what you like and what would suit you. I once saw a mother and teenage daughter shopping at Forever 21 and the salesgirl automatically assumed they were shopping for the daughter! It felt good to see the mother find clothes that suited her as well and to see them shop together at this trendy young store!

Some women in their 40s and 50s can pull off a mini skirt with high heels much better than a 20-year-old! Think Madonna, Sharon Stone and Michelle Pfeifer. There are a lot of teenagers who can’t carry-off minis and skinny jeans either.

Some women who reach the age of 40, vow never to wear a pair of shorts again;

others simply don’t care – especially the ones who have amazing legs. Shorts can be unforgiving and a lot of women are aware of this. The rest of the population also seems to have a problem with this and consider it unbecoming for an older woman to expose too much skin. The world isn’t too sure how to handle mothers and grandmothers showing off bits of their body.

If you have a great butt and legs – there’s no reason why you can't pull-off those shorts and if you have a great bust, you can show it off with a low-cut top.

A lot has to do with attitude: adopt the right attitude and you can get away with (almost) anything. But for this, most women need to know that they look good in what they are wearing and feel confident.

They need to start dressing for themselves and express their personal style while still conveying an image that reflects a level of maturity. If you have doubts and are not sure, then perhaps you need to stick to the ‘geriatric’ look and get those pantsuits out!

For women in their 30s, transition-

Women need to start dressing for themselves and express their personal style while still conveying an image that reflects a level of maturity ing from dressing like a young adult to a grown up isn’t an easy change. Don’t hang onto dressing like your tween daughter.

That Audrey Hepburnish sheath dress that you were afraid to rock in your 20s would work very well now.

Women in their 40s should keep in mind good tailoring and fit. Black spells sophistication, but jewel tones look great as well.

Wide legged trousers hide those hips that are bigger than they were in your twenties. Avoid low-rise jeans, minis and leggings. A Capri can replace those leggings well enough. 40s is a time to wear metallic colours.

Women in their 50s should be conscious of aging necks and wear blouses that hide it. Coats should hang longer and boots rather than pumps add to your overall appearance. Fifty is said to be the new thirty, so go ahead and experiment. Few of us

will be the same shape in our 40s and 50s as we were in our teens and 20s. Dressing appropriately for your looks and figure is the key.

If you think something makes you look dowdy, then it probably does. If you feel dumb in an outfit, then you look it too.

Keep the spirit up in your wardrobe and your outlook.

Fashion can be fun at any age. You just need to choose that trendy piece that you really like and pair it with a more classic or toned down separate. Being in your 40s or 50s does not mean you have to sacrifice being fashionable. Let your wardrobe show your personality. If you are a fun loving 60-year-old that can still rock a great pair of jeans, then go ahead – you worked hard for that! Today you have the methods to defy age. Make the most of it, as it’s not about the age you are, but the age you appear and feel. With a sensible upkeep and a modern outlook, you can rock most outfits!

I did tell my sister to go for those purple pants as long as she felt good about them and herself in it!

2010 December

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Style

Listen up; we've to tell you an important secret Feast your eyes on these must-have treats from hot brand Women'Secret. The three new collections are created for a little self-indulgence. Go on, spoil yourself.

Sweet Winnie

It's all about friendly character Winnie the Pooh in this youthful and vibrant collection. The cute loveable bear appears on various offerings of nightwear, sweatshirts and hooded garments. The palette is grounded in colours brown, pink and tan highlighted with floral tones and multicolour stripes.

Polka Dots

Oh la la! This is a super sexy trend which gathers inspiration from the 50s when polka dots were the hottest thing in town. The range is crammed with sensual underwear sets, baby doll night dresses and other provocative pieces made in inviting materials including satin and lace.

Jump

Stylish, sexy and practical sportswear that is guaranteed to motivate you to the gym just to show off your fabulous clothes! The collection features tops, baggy pants, shorts and hoodies all made in comfy cotton fabrics. Complement your look with chic accessories including cute gym bags, shoes and purses.

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December 2010

Magical Mulberry

M

ulberry recently revealed a whimsical Spring Summer 2011 collection at an exclusive showing at its store in The Pearl-Qatar. The must-have offerings won't be available until February; however, the event highlighted key pieces which are set to be sell-out.

Inspired by the children's novel The Secret Garden, the magical range is grounded with colours including Powder Beige, Chestnut, Petticoat White and Light Peach which complement the existing classics of Oak, Black and Chocolate. Brighter colours of Electric Blue, Watermelon, Bright Coral, Hot Pink and Grape Soda dominate other styles.

Vintage inspiration

I

t's all about 20s glamour in the latest Abaya collection from fashion designer Malaak. The 14 piece range is set to cause excitement amongst fashionistas who love the mixes of tradition, contemporary and vintage elements. Emphasis is on the dropped waist and asymmetrical cuts across the body and sleeves. Material is brought to life with beautiful crushing and draping effects while the colour palette reflects the glamour of the 20s perfectly. The pieces are available to purchase on 3Abaya.com.

Age is just a number

D

ermalogica has introduced AGE Smart: an innovative, scientifically-advanced system of products specifically designed to prevent and repair internal and external damage to aging skin. AGE Smart was developed to address the underlying factors that lead to signs of premature aging in our skin including wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, dehydration, hyperpigmentation, and loss of elasticity and tone to the skin.

The AGE Smart products are particularly rich in Vitamin C, anti-oxidants and have an SPF which are contributing factors in reducing the visible aging of the skin.

The signs of aging can be primarily attributed to exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Very simply, three biochemical reactions occur in the skin that triggers the structural changes that we associate with aging. Dermalogica is addressing these transformations.

2010 December

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stop

Style

Get catwalk

colour

I

t's time for a chic new look this festive season and what better way for an instant update then treating your hair with a fab new colour. It's so easy to achieve with INOA introduced by the beauty experts at L'Oreal Professionnel. The long-lasting, unscented dyes contain conditioning ingredients and are the perfect choice to give hair a healthy natural shine.

A modern Arab era

A

spectacular fashion show and masquerade themed event signified the launch of the collaboration between Nayomi and Diana Haddad. The joint venture between the two Arab icons is to create a new era of contemporary Arab fashion with focus on fashion technology and enhance Nayomi's positioning as a 'Modern Arab' brand. Excitement reached fever pitch in the Emirates Tower Hotel in Dubai, where the event was held, as models wooed the crowd showcasing the latest pieces from the brand's winter 2010 collection.

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December 2010

Tod's launches custom-made service

C

elebrities including Diane Kruger, Frieda Pinto and Nicole Kidman are amongst Italian luxury brand Tod's biggest fans. It's understandable as it recently launched an exclusive custommade service in its boutique in the Villagio. Now, customers can create a unique product by choosing the style they desire and selecting material accordingly from a choice of leathers like alligator and python.

town

around

green initiatives rewarded

T

The winners of QTGA 2010 along with the judges

he winners of the Qatar Today Green Awards (QTGA) 2010 were lauded on November 27 at an event that was attended by high-ranking officials and professionals from the sustainability and environmental sector, at the Four Seasons hotel in West Bay. Yousuf Jassem Al-Darwish, Chairman of Oryx Advertising Company, Dr Saif Al-Hajri, Vice Chairman, Qatar Foundation, HE Kenjiro Monji, the Japanese Ambassador to Qatar, Dimitri Giokas, Chief Operating Officer at HSBC, Eng Issa M Al-Mohannadi, CEO, Dohaland and Adel Al-Mutawa, Executive Director, Group Communications, Qtel were all part of the

48

The original and still the best.

The Qatar Today Green Awards were the country’s first, back in 2008, and late last month enjoyed their third edition with a seamless ceremony at Doha’s Four Seasons Hotel.

December 2010

high-profile event.

The third edition saw a good participation from all sectors, which itself was a clear indication of growing awareness of an environmental ethos in the country.

Over 80 nominations for nine categories were received from organisations large and small engaged in the supply of diverse products and services.

Initiatives included: recycling of used equipment, upgrading the education curriculum to include environmental studies and process related eco-endeavours, such as carbon neutral constructions.

Judging Process Winners in each category were chosen

through a two-tier selection process. The selection panel comprised of renowned environmental experts, Dr Benno Boer, Ecological Sciences Advisor, UNESCO Arab Region; Dr Nobuyuki Yamaguchi from Qatar University; Kanchan Ghoshal, KPMG; Deena Al-Abdullah and Katrin Scholtz-Barth from Sustainable Qatar, screened every entry. Applicants were first short-listed by the judges and applicants were then requested to provide detailed information on their initiatives, based on which the judges made their final decision.

Dr Boer, who has been part of the judging process for QTGA since its inception, was particularly impressed with the quality of the applicants this year. He said, “Though

“HSBC has been a partner of QTGA since its inception in 2008. We endeavour to bring awareness as well as tangible actions to the business world in Qatar and through this partnership we can actively display our commitment to create a sustainable future in the country,” said Dimitri Giokas, Chief Operating Officer at HSBC.

The judges of QTGA 2010 (from left): Deena Al-Abdullah, Environmental Advisor, Katrin Scholtz-Barth from Sustainable Qatar, Dr Nobuyuki Yamaguchi from Qatar University, Kanchan Ghoshal from KPMG and Dr Benno Boer, Ecological Sciences Advisor, UNESCO Arab Region and Qatar with Ravi Raman, VP of Oryx Advertising Company WLL there is scope for the number of applicants to increase in this country, I have to say that I was particularly impressed with the applications. Some of them are really note-worthy for their groundbreaking initiatives.”

Partner Support Besides the ceremony, presentations made by HSBC and Dohaland, key partners and sponsors of The Green Awards 2010, highlighted the commitment and vision of the companies.

QTGA 2010 WINNERS & RUNNERS UP Award

Winner

1st Runner Up

2nd Runner Up

Green Organisation

Aecom & UDC

Ras Laffan Power Co.

Movenpick Tower and Suites

Green Innovation

Khalid Cement Industries Complex

Innovations Unlimited ME

Johnson Controls

Environmental Vision in the Energy Section

Dolphin Energy Limited

ORYX GTL Limited

TOPAZ Marine Services (Doha Marine Services)

Environmental Vision in the Education Sector

Qatar Foundation – Housing & Residence Life

Qatar University

MES Indian School

Environmental Leadership

Doha Bank

Energy City

Green Retailer

Qtel

Vodafone Qatar

Ebn Sina Medical

Green Product or Service

Al Haya Waste Management

CGC

Sigma paints

Best Public Awareness Campaign

Friends of Environment

TCE QSTP-LLC

Doha Bank

Green Roof & Green Building Design

Qatari Diar Vinci Company

Qatargas Operating Company Ltd

Energy City Qatar

Commenting about the partnership, Dohaland, CEO, Eng Issa M Al-Mohannadi said, “Dohaland is delighted to partner with Qatar Today in taking on the challenge of spreading awareness on green issues in Qatar. Sustainability and environmental awareness are at the core of what we do at Dohaland, and partnering with an organisation that shares with us these same values will ensure that individuals, businesses, and society at large stand up and take notice. Together we can create a better, greener, more sustainable Qatar of the future.”

“It is heartening to see the support and deep-rooted commitment of our partners, which has made a QTGA a coveted honour. The rise in the number of entries, the overall quality of the case studies and new projects being nominated are true signs that sustainability and eco initiatives are becoming mainstream. The continued effort of past winners and nominees also indicates their commitment to the green cause. This strong platform allows us to expand the scope and make a difference at the grass root level,” said Ravi Raman, Vice President, Oryx Advertising Company.

Since 2008, QTGA have recognised a broad spectrum of environmental activism, from grassroots to national, from single endeavours to activities reflecting the goals set out in long-term environmental visions and polices. The Awards were instituted by Qatar Today – the flagship publication of Oryx Advertising and the only monthly business magazine of note in this country.

Oryx Advertising is one of the oldest and largest publishing houses in Qatar, with a history stretching back to the 70s 2010 December

49

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Thousands join Diabetes Walk

M

ore than 4,500 people including school students joined a walk under the slogan ‘Beat Diabetes’ at the Doha Corniche on November 26 to raise public awareness about diabetes and disseminate tools for prevention. The walk was organised by the Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA) jointly with Landmark Group as a part of awareness campaigns held throughout the month to mark the World Diabetes Day. Landmark Group, which launched a diabetes awareness campaign last year in UAE, has expanded it to Qatar this year as diabetes is growing at an alarming rate across the globe.

“With research figures we realised that a 40

percent of individuals who are living with Type-2 diabetes are not even aware of the fact that they are suffering from this condition. This prompted us to take up the cause and help spread awareness about diabetes,” said Suresh Sharma, Head of Operation, Land Mark Group, Qatar. “The response to the event was brilliant, this exceeds our expectations,” he said after the event.

Dr Mahmoud Zirie, Head of the Scientific Committee at QDA and Head of Diabetes and Endocrinology Department at Hamad Medical Corporation; Dr Sharoud Al Jundi, QDA’s Programme Manager, Bhuvana Acharya, Head of Corporate Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility, Landmark Group also joined the walk.

Extreme Sports at The Pearl-Qatar

Encouraging Volunteerism

V

olunteer Qatar hosted an evening of arts and crafts for over 50 children from Dhreima, the Qatari centre for orphans, on November 29 followed by a family-style barbecue. The arts and crafts evening was part of the Volunteer Qatar campaign to foster volunteerism in Qatar, launched by Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar this September. The event was held in the atrium of the new Georgetown building in Education City.

Georgetown Senior and a leading member of the Volunteer Qatar campaign, Lulu Al-Rodaini commented, “Tonight’s arts and crafts evening was great for the children and volunteers alike. When people offer their time and energy in service to others, the community is strengthened. Through Volunteer Qatar, we hope to provide all members of society with opportunities to volunteer and do their part in helping those in need.”

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December 2010

T

he Pearl-Qatar hosted a display of ‘wakeboarding’ in a series of high-octane events at Porto Arabia. Hosted by The Pearl-Qatar, sponsored by Ronautica Middle East (RME), Alison Nelson’s Chocolate Bar and powered by Red Bull, The Pearl-Qatar Wakeboarding Day was a day of high excitement featuring a series of special events centred on the extreme and unique sport of wakeboarding.

Wakeboarding combines the skills of boating, water skiing and surfing. Duncan Zuur, top International wakeboarder, was also at the event to demonstrate the extreme sport in Doha.

T Qatar celebrates first birthday

A

VCUQ opens North Wing

year ago, T Qatar, the local edition of T: The New York Times Style Magazine, was launched amidst great expectation and interest. Over six issues, the magazine has created quite a stir in the country. An elegant dinner affair in November marked its success and celebrated its first anniversary in style.

The venue was the picturesque terrace of Al Mourjan Restaurant on the Corniche. Reprints of T Art designed by renowned artists and designers like Oscar de la Renta, Karl Lagerfeld and Jeff Koons were on display. This select screening was by invitation only and Qatar’s social glitterati, business heads, artists and prominent members of the art scene were in attendance.

INFDEX 2010 commemorates design initiatives

Dean Allyson Vanstone with US Ambassador Joseph LeBaron, Yousef Ahmed Al-Hommaid and Dr Abdullah Al-Thani after unveiling the painting gifted by Yousef to VCUQ

V

CUQ celebrated the opening of its North Wing with an Open House event on November 21, which was attended by guests from VCU Richmond, Qatar Foundation representatives, VIPs, sponsors and friends besides students, faculty and staff.

The VCUQ community gathered again in the Saffron Hall for a dessert reception during which the winners of the VCU and You photo contest were announced. The contest, which ran for a month, saw VCUQ students, faculty and staff share photos of their favourite moment, place, memory or time at VCUQ.

The public reception began in the afternoon during which Dean Allyson Vanstone welcomed the guests and thanked architect Hazem Abu Naba for the beautifully designed building.

“I would like to thank the Qatar Foundation Chair, Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al-Missned for visionary leadership; Dr Abdullah bin Ali Al-Thani, Vice President of Education and president of Education City University for continuous support and guidance; and Vice President of Capital Projects Qatar Foundation Saad Al-Muhannadi and his team, who made this expansion a reality,” she said.

Ambassadors and commercial attaches joined the cream of international designers to celebrate the success of the Qatari interior design industry at the INFDEX 2010 Networking Lunch and Awards at Doha Exhibition Center on November 11, 2010.

VIP guests attending the event included the Ambassador of France HE Gilles Bonnaud, the Ambassador of Indonesia HE Rosy Munir, the Italian Commercial Attachè and the Turkish Commercial Attachè Chairman and Managing Director of Jaidah Group Mohammad Al-Jaidah and Qatar Expo Group Vice Chairman, Roudi Baroudi.

Sponsored by Qatari Diar, the INFDEX 2010 Best Young Designer Award Jury headed by Lebanese designer and architect Dori Hitti presented the Best Young Designer Award – Furniture Design Category to Reem Mahmoud Zinia. The First Prize Winner in the Architecture/Interior Design Category was Aisha Al Mutawa of Qatar University.

The Best Environmental eco-friendly stand at INFDEX 2010 sponsored by Qatar Today Green Awards was given away to Nasser bin Abdullah & Sons (Panasonic) for their stand design and for spreading awareness in sustainability.

2010 December

51

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around

An auction of words

S

CMUQ conducts outreach programme

C

MUQ hosted an outreach workshop for students recently on its campus at Education City. Ibtikar Qatar, the Information Systems Innovation competition for high school seniors and juniors, kicked off with a workshop on November 27 under the theme of the United Nation’s 2010 Year of Biodiversity.

Ibtikar, which is the Arabic word for “innovation”, was created as a holistic approach to service learning, where students learn through active participation in projects that benefit the community.

Through Ibtikar Qatar, high school students are encouraged to design creative solutions to some of the important current challenges that society is facing using information technology while at the same time raising their interest in the dynamic

52

December 2010

field of Information Systems. 91 Students from 17 different schools are participating in Ibtikar Qatar.

“We have seen a growing interest in our outreach programs over the years as students see the benefits of having a solid understanding of technology and how deeply embedded it is in society and daily lives,” said Selma Limam Mansour, PhD, Information Systems Programme Coordinator at CMUQ. “This year’s challenge was to design an iPhone application to help promote the United Nations goals for the 2010 year of Biodiversity.

We always choose a theme which students can relate to, and we have made a commitment to social responsibility. This year we wanted to provide awareness about the challenges of reducing biodiversity in Qatar.”

otheby’s calligraphic auction ‘Hurouf: The Art of the Word’, will take place at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Doha on December 16. The 145-lot auction will showcase works by over 65 artists from 24 countries, with over 80 pieces in the sale which are contemporary interpretations of calligraphy. The entire auction carries a pre-sale estimate of in excess of $4 million (QR14.6 million).

‘Hurouf: The Art of the Word’ traces the developments of the Arabic script from its inception, with kufic leaves dating from the 8th century, through popular calligraphy of the 19th century to the highest calibre works by international calligraphers working today. In selecting some of the most talented, revered and innovative calligraphers working with the Arabic script from, among others, Japan, the United States, Turkey, the Middle East, China and the Indian Sub-Continent, the auction aims to represent the developments of an art form that has entered its second millennium. The sale features monumental pieces on canvas, in bronze and neon too, by leading artists such as Farhad Moshiri, Ahmed Moustafa, Parviz Tanavoli, Hassan Massoudy, Mohammed Ehsai, Ali Omar Ermes, Sadequain and Laila Shawa, and of particular relevance to Qatar are local artists Yousef Ahmad and Ali Hassan and resident artist MF Hussain.

Sotheby’s Middle East and India Department, Deputy Director, Dalya Islam commented: “We are delighted to bring this sale to Doha during its Year of Arab Culture, and place on the world stage a first by an international auction house, a retrospective of calligraphy through the ages, highlighting the very genesis of this technique, for private and institutional collectors and buyers of art to acquire, for students and the interested and appreciating public to study and enjoy. We believe that the regional cultural hub of Doha will provide the best platform to present such a themed sale.”

town

around

A hand that soothes Experiencing a relaxing massage at the Ozone Gym and Spa, La Cigale Hotel.

M

he says and I agree completely.

“Ozone Gym and Spa uses products from Matis, a luxury skincare brand from France, in all treatments,” he says.

Specialty Treatment After the treatment, as I regain my senses from the deep sleep induced by the massage, Marie talks about the specialty treatment of La Cigale, The Moroccan bath, and recommends the same for my next visit – she is sure I will be back.

She says that the treatment is ideal for working mothers who juggle work and family and a lot of responsibility in a day. “Working women like you need to be pampered once in a while,” she adds.

“An occasional Moroccan bath enhances the wellness of health, body and soul.

The process involves using black Moroccan soup to remove the dead skin cells.

A body scrub follows with a hard loufa and thereafter the gassoul mud, a special

arie’s hands are supple yet firm and she is the epitome of cheer, the perfect combination for a masseuse. She radiates happiness while her hands soothe out worries and after an hour’s treatment, I emerge from La Cigale’s Ozone Gym & Spa, totally

rejuvenated.

Ozone Gym & Spa, located on the mezzanine floor of La Cigale, is not secluded from the rest of the hotel, but forms an integral part of the main building. Since the gym is also part of the service, this is not the ideal place if you prefer privacy.

But once you enter the massage rooms, which are compact, yet tastefully decorated, you are cut off from the outside world. The music playing softly in the background cuts off the clamour and the dimly lit room with flickering candles makes you relax.

Marie encourages me to lie down, gently prodding about my preferences, for the aroma and the oil to choose for the massage, and the heat of the stones that can be tolerated. Having opted for the Hot Stone massage, my treatment is a delightful combination of hands and heated volcanic stones to help relax the sore muscles.

The stones were hot, but not uncomfortably so, and at one point when the stones press down on the lower back and abdomen, the sensation is curiously therapeutic.

The aches and the pains disappear and the tension knots miraculously clear from the neck and shoulder area.

“Hot Stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated volcanic stones. The stones are placed over specific locations on the body and the process serves to relax the muscles, release toxins, reduce body ache and improve overall circulation,” explains Rabih Lala, Recreation and Spa Manager, after the treatment.

“A sense of spiritual wellness may be felt by the guest as the treatment process calms the mind and allows the mind to retreat into a deep meditative state,”

Ambience: Treatment: Service: Product:

   

range of Moroccan mud, is applied to the skin. The finishing effect makes the skin feels smoother and revitalised.”

“We also recommend the Relaxing Package which consists of a series of treatments including a five-minute welcoming massage and followed by a full body peeling and a 30-minute relaxing massage. A mask will be applied to the body thereafter and the treatment concludes with a body cream,” says Rabih.

I make sure to fix another appointment before I walk out of the Hotel (Reviewed by Sindhu Nair)

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Slug

name

MOVIES you can’t miss

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader Genre: Fantasy/Action/ Adventure

T

he land of Naria is back to enchant you with its magic and wonder in its third adaptation of C. S. Lewis’ children’s fantasy series novel, ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’. Edmund (Skandar Keynes) and Lucy Pevensie (Georgie Henley), along with their cousin Eustace (Will Poulter) and their royal friend King Caspian (Ben Barnes), find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to the Dawn Treader (the fantastic Narnian ship). As they embark on an incredible adventure of destiny and discovery, they confront obstacles beyond imagination. A journey of action and adventure, you don’t want to miss!

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December 2010

True Grit

Genre: Drama/ Action

W

hen 14-year-old Mattie Ross’s (Hailee Steinfeld) father is shot in cold blood by the coward Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin), Mattie is determined to bring him to justice. With the aid of a trigger-happy, drunken US Marshal, Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges), she sets out with him on a hot pursuit of Tom into the Indian Territory.

Meanwhile, a Texas Ranger named LeBoeuf (Matt Damon) is also on a trail to catch Tom for the murder of another man and bring him back to Texas. With two hunters and one prey, a game of chase begins!

Little Fockers

Genre: Comedy/Family

I

n the sequel to Meet the Parents and Meet the Fockers, Greg (Ben Stiller) is now a father of five-year old twins, after marrying his wife Pam (Teri Polo). Greg continues with his efforts to win over his sceptical father-in law Jack (Robert De Niro). When Greg and Pam’s entire family - including Pam’s ex, Kevin (Owen Wilson) – descends for the twins’ birthday party; Greg must prove to Jack that he’s fully capable as the man of the house and a good father too!

MUSIC You Should Hear

Greatest Hits So Far!!!

By Pink

W

hat would you expect when a collection of chartbusters from a fantastic singer are thrown in to create an album? The greatest hits so far? Yes, that’s what Pink has to offer with her latest album consciously titled ‘Greatest Hits So far!!!’.

The album includes classic pop hits ‘Get the Party Started’ and ‘Just Like a Pill’ which are pleasurable every time you hear them. ‘There you Go’ is quality R’n’B with catchy lyrics. The album also features three new songs, ‘Heartbreak Down’, “F**kin’ Perfect’ and the lead single ‘Raise Your Glass’, dedicated

by Pink to those who feel that they are not a part of the popular crowd.

The album is plain Pink – refreshing, intelligent, energetic and outspoken.

Obsession

By Shayne Ward

'O

bsession’ is the third album from 2005 X Factor winner Shayne and touted to be his ‘big’ comeback! ‘Must Be A Reason’ (feat. J Pearl) and ‘Someone like you’ are great foottapping numbers with high tempos. ‘Human’ has an amazing blend of soft piano melodies and hard thumping beats.

The not-so-great numbers in the album would be ‘Waiting In The Wings’ which is slightly dragging while the title track ‘Obsession’ doesn’t strike a chord either. Some of the songs might end up sounding similar too.

Nevertheless, ‘Obsession’ is a decent album with Shayne exhibiting his great voice for the ten melodious tracks!

BOOKS you must read

The Other Side of Down

By David Archuleta

D

avid’s album, ‘The Other Side of Down’, oozes with the 20-year-old’s amazing vocal skills and fantastic mix and match of instruments.

The title-track is a well-crafted, beautifully written contemporary pop number, while ‘Something ‘Bout love’ and ‘Stomping the Roses’ are laden with groove, jazz and beats.

The playful ‘Parachutes and Airplanes’, the fingersnappy ‘Look Around’ tingling your ears and other numbers like ‘Elevator’ and ‘Good Place’ are sheer talent on display.

From the catchy opener to the heart-warming final song ‘My Kind of Perfect’, the album offers great melodies and terrific vocals.

2010 December

57

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r u o y t Le e speak! r u t pic om c . s p esna l b b .bu www

By Cassey Oliveira

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December 2010

H

aven’t we all heard the idiom ‘A picture speaks volumes’? And if the picture has you in it, you would want it to speak even louder! As a matter of fact, your picture can literally speak, thanks to the website: www.bubblesnaps.com This site dwells on a simple idea: Have fun with your pictures by adding speech bubbles.

To begin with, you must create your own account. Again, registration is free. Once you have opened an account, you can create your own bubblesnap by uploading a picture from your computer. But, this site uses only a JPEG file with a size of 400 x 500 pixels. Large pictures might encounter problems while uploading. After you have uploaded a picture of your choice, start adding a bubble – a speak bubble or a thought bubble.

These bubbles can be resized and positioned anywhere. After typing in your humorous (or naughty) thoughts, click on ‘finish’ to reproduce a wackier image of the original.

To get your friends involved in this crazy activity, you can mail them your “creation”, with a personalised image. Your friends get to see the bubble animations in the same sequence that they were created. They can reply using the same image or create their own bubble snap, and the fun ensues.

Drawbacks concerning the site would be that firstly the size of the image file is restricted. Secondly, a maximum of 18 images only can be saved in your account that would mean, deleting a few to add new ones. Moreover, there are not many features to toy with, but the site promises to add them soon.

As a whole, this site is fun and simple to use. But be careful while mailing your bubblesnaps... you don’t want to have the wrong picture land up with the wrong person!

speciality health services

self care and well-being

dining

Al BORG MEDICAL LAB

44472224

Aljawhara Chemist

44429924

Alexandre Zouari salon

44535353

Al Emadi Hospital

44666009

Al-Qatar Massage

55968467

Al Raed Dental Center

44509673

Be Bloom

44554422

Annab Lab & Radiology

44373880/1

Bellissima

44438843

Body Glaze

44659092

Bottega Verde City Center

44834535

Cloud 9

44933057

Foot Care Centre The Center

lounge & cafes

Aalishan (Indian)

33315999

Al Bandar (Seafood)

44311818

Al Majiles Al-Arabi Restaurant (Arabic)

44447417 44854444

Bader Chemist

44411888

Al Shaheen (Sheraton)

City Center Chemist

44839200

Almaharah (Arabic)

Doha Chiropractic Centre

44620012

Applebees (American)

Doha Specialized Dental Center

44568585

Asia Live (Marriott)

Dr Fahad Abdullah Center

44688228

Biella (Italian)

44323900

Bismillah Royal Tandoor (Indian) Bukhara (Indian)

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Al Jalsa Café

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al kut lounge

44343333

Atrium Lounge

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Café Batteel (Salwa Road) 44441414 Café Joud

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Cigar Lounge

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Cigar Lounge (Sharq Village)

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44323255

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Habanos (The Ritz Carlton) 44848503

44360747/ 44934880 44298499 44677731/44933838

44366275

Dr Hassan Al Abdulla Specialised Dental Clinic

44930394

Dr Jean-Claude Saade (Dental Surgeon)

44507897

Franck Provost Salon

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Dr Mariam S Al Mahmied (Diagnostic Ultrasound)

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Chingari (INDIAN)

44417417

Gloria Hotel Doha

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Dr Mohammed Ameen Febeit

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Chopsticks (CHINESE)

44343333

Manhattan (Ramada)

44281428

44685444

grand gourmet (international buffet) 4434333

Orangery Café’ Trottoir

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Green’s (Vegetarian)

Piano Piano (Movenpick)

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Qube (Ramada)

44281428

Le Cigalon (international buffet) 44288888

Sky View (La Cigale)

44288888

Le Central (Mediterranean cuisine) 44288888

The Admiral’s Club (The Ritz Carlton)

44848000

The Coffee Beanery (Ramada Junction)

44657800

Foot Care Centre city Center

Dr Mohammed Ameen Zebeib (Consultant Physician)

Hongkong Body Care Center

44665816

Jean Louis David

44327990

La Reine Skincare Center

Dr Tamim Malas (General Dentistry)

44669988

Dr Tarek S Abdl El Azim (Oral Medicine)

44671118

Family Medical Clinics

44514557

Layal Beauty Saloon 55521356

44502929/44504848

44135245

Lo Spaghetto (Italian)

44341601

Nandos (MEXICAN)

44442345

Patchi (Chocolates)

44864101

Shanghai Garden (CHINESE)

44933188

Tajine (Moroccon)

44444171

tangia (moroccan cuisine)

44343333

Tanjore (Indian)

44320333

The Great Wall (Chinese)

44312812

44661947

The One (Continental)

44888669

Najat Dental Clinic

44474656

Yen Sushi Bar (Japanese)

44288888

Obstetrics&Gynecology Clinic

44423923

Pediatric Dental Cllinic

44366311

Tamima Medical Complex

44875515

44874771

Moulay Yaaqoup Beauty Center

Future Dental Center

44580800

44553465

GoodLife Chemist - Alsadd

44447943

Salon at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel 44848000

GoodLife Chemist - City Center 44839100

GoodLife Chemist The Pearl 4495 3876 ext. 1171

Saloon Osraa

55708742

Gulf Dental Center

44670701 / 44670702

Sehati Beauty Mall

44683831

Gulf Dental Centre

44670701/44670702

44697840/44580193

shopping and malls Centre Point Mall

44421766

City Center-Doha

44933355

HYATT PLAZA

44694848

Landmark Mall

44875222

ROYAL PLAZA

44130000

The Centre

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The Mall

44678888

Villaggio

60

44135222

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Le Pain Quotidien

First Dental Center

Slim Line

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44371743

44582319

Sightly Beauty Salon 44567144

Khazana (Indian)

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Le Gourmet (Meditteranean/Arabic)

Marinaa Beauty Saloon

Salon at Intercontinental Hotel 44844444

Chilli’s (American)

International Specialized Dental Center

44507897

Mr Mohad A Elwadia Dental Clinic

security Total Security Solutions

December 2010

44441941

expat groups

Inch Café (City Center)

44633054

Madison Piano Bar (Live international music) 44288888

The Coffee Cottage (Near Chili’s Ramada Junction) 44839042 The Irish Harp (Sheraton) 44854444 The Waterhole (Sheraton) 44854444 Wok Mee (Movenpick Tower)

44966444

pet care Pampered Pets Kennel & Cattery

55884132

Qatar Animal Welfare

American Women’s Association

44128177

British Council & Information Centre

44251888

Chelsea Football Club Supporters 66696524

Society

55396074

Qatar Pet Relocaters

55286335

Qatar Pet Travel

44808458

Qatar Veterinary Centre

44877144

The Veterinary Surgery

44367187

health and fitness

Al Dana Club

hospitals

44960666

Al Khor Riding Center

44323245/66610527

AL Massa Active (ladies)

44444161

Aspire Academy for Sports Excellence

44136208

Badminton

44417417

Contours Express (ladies only)

44980099

Curves

44699955

Cycling

44475522

Diplomatic Club

44839000

Al Ahli Hospital

44898888

Al Amal Hospital

44397830

Al Emadi Hospital

44666009

Al Saad Paediatric Emergency Centre

Doha Hockey Club

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Doha Netball

55855703

Doha Rugby Union

44683771

Doha Sailing Club

44439840

Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sport Hospital

44132000

Gold’s Gym

44666622

Hamad General Hospital

44394444

Gymnastics Federation

44655667

Qatar Medical Centre

44440606

Intercontinental Doha’s Bay Club 44844852

Rumaillah Hospital

44393333

Khalifa Tennis and Squash Complex

Womens Hospital

44396666

American Hospital

44392948 44421999

44409666

Korea Taekwondo Center 44659066/55563305 Pepka Yoga

66806768

Qatar Golf Academy

44960755

Qatar Minor Ice Hockey Association

55063526/ 55034649

Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club Riding Club

44807413

Regatta Sailing Academy

55507846

spas and wellness Four Seasons Spa

55236579

Sports for Women

44931024

grand regency hotel angsana spa

44343152/44343153

SqubaDiving

55836240

44910666

Nokia repair services

44910666

55574671/ 55315745

German Ladies Coffee Morning

55336851

Harley Davidson motorcycle group 55323680

The English Kindergarten

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Apple Tree Nursery

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Busy Bees Nursery

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Creative Child

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Elder Tree 44551020/ 44984984/ 44888493 French Nursery

44980639

IAID Instrumental and vocal classes 44320974

Fun First Nursery

Indian Women’s Association

44425937

Little Angels

44602713

Qatar Toastmasters

55547248

Little Cherubs Nursery

44113803

Redotters@Qatar

55209294

Mulbery Bush Nursery

44502545

Rising Stars Kindergarten

44673069

44352598/55870133

Turkish Women’s Association

Sandsport-Blo-karting

Nokia phones and accessories

Doha Singers

Silver Dhow Association

Royal Yatching Association 6 6749254/55279198

phones and support

play schools and nurseries

communities and entertainment groups

55468309

44110953 44551010/ 44551212

Starfish Lane Kids 44875939/ 44110355 Sunbeam Kindergarten

44440108

Tots Corner Nursery

44688008

local tour operators

home decor

44948888

Life Time Nursery

grand regency hotel perfect figure

44343446 grand regency hotel shape & style beauty salon 44343447

Arteligno Interior Designers 44361580

Intercontinental Doha Spa 44844444

Home Centre

44839400

La Cigale’s Ozone Spa & Gym 44288888

ID design

44678777

Marriott Spa

44298520

Millenium Hotel Doha Spa

44247777

Indoors Decorators (almuftah)

44699920

Ramada Plaza

44281621

Pioneer Interiors

44342150

Ritz Carlton Spa

44848503

Salam Industries Wll

44600692

The One

44888669

Six Senses Spa

44256999

Spa Chakra (Alfardan Towers)

44999250

Habib’s Hair & Beauty Lounge

44130672

Al Mazaya Tourism

44318440

Arabian Adventures

44361461

Black Pearl Toursism

44357333

Gulf Adventures Toursim

44221888

Qatar International Adventures

44553954

Qatar International Tours 44551141

To list your services in the Woman Today Directory, please mail wtoday@omsqatar.com

2010 December

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December 2010