From the editor’s chair, Liz O’Reilly shares the things that have piqued her interest this month.
Up the Ladies
Perhaps it should be no surprise that feminism is Merriam-Webster dictionary’s Word of the Year, with searches of the term up 70 per cent on last year. The renewed interest comes in the wake of numerous high-profile sex assault scandals, which sparked the #MeToo campaign; the Women’s March in Washington following the inauguration of President Trump; and TV shows and movies with strong feminist themes such as Wonder Woman. Whatever the reason, it’s a very welcome development that people (hopefully young women) are once again taking interest in something that seemed to have gained itself a reputation as the preserve of the ‘loony left’. For the record, the dictionary defines feminism as “1: the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes” and “2: organised activity on behalf of women’s rights and interests.” Can’t argue with that!
All Change in the Magic Kingdom
So, just weeks after the announcement that women will be allowed to drive, Saudi Arabia’s emergence into the 21st century continues with the news that females are to be granted access to sports stadiums. And NBC reported that, in another first, a female singer, Lebanese artist Hiba Tawaji, took to the stage for a solo public concert for the first time in the country’s history. Thousands attended the historic, all-women event and danced to renditions of Celine Dion, as well as Arab classics.
It seems the crusading Crown Prince, known as MBS, has his sights firmly set on a more modern and inclusive future — I truly hope his vision is allowed to succeed.
Watching the Pennies
I’m rather excited that those lovely folks at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay have decided to help my New Year’s beauty resolutions along with some major discounts on high-end skincare. Till the end of December, there’s 10 per cent off when you purchase one item from brands such as Ila, Sodashi, Aloe Up, MCCM or Coola. Buy two or three items and the discount jumps to 20 per cent. Four or more and you’ll save 30 per cent. I feel a bit of a credit card spree coming on.
Ay Ay Avocado
Clever food scientists and agriculturalists have come up with a stoneless avocado. And the slightly smaller version of the fruit is being hailed as the ‘Holy Grail’. Apparently surgeons in the UK are welcoming the development in the hope they will reduce cases of so called ‘avocado hand’ – knife injuries sustained when cutting into the fruit. I must admit, I’m finding it quite hard to take this story seriously. I mean, really, ‘avocado hand’ is a thing? And, don’t get me wrong, I love avocados as much as the next girl, but, Holy Grail, seriously? When they develop an avocado (with or without stone) that can magically make me a size 12, then, and only then, does it deserve the accolade of Holy Grail!
Bravo Macron
This tale, pun fully intended, has two heroes. In a meeting with staff earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron brought along his rescue dog, Nemo. As the head of state chatted with his junior ministers, they were disturbed by the unmistakeable sound of the dog relieving himself in a centuries-old fireplace. Now, any dog owner will know the cringe-inducing embarrassment when one’s canine companion puts a paw spectacularly out of place. But the president, much to his credit, was completely unphased and laughed along with his colleagues saying they had elicited the dog’s uncharacteristic behaviour. Big Brownie points to Mr Macron – he rescued Nemo from a shelter, takes him to work and doesn’t care when he pees during meetings!
WORD OF THE MONTH – Erinaceous
This is a strange one; it refers to something or someone who resembles a hedgehog. If someone ever says that you are looking quite erinaceous today, you know now to give them a penetrating, evil glare. Personally, I find it quite strange that there is actually a word for this.
