Children starting secondary school start to yearn for a golden tan at the same time as their parents hand over the task of applying their own suncream, a survey has found. The worrying trend could raise the risk of teenagers developing deadly skin cancer later on in life. Researchers from ... More
Recently I have been taken to labelling myself as a terrible mother — because for years I ignored my nine-year-old son’s breathing problems. Lucas would have frequent slight breathlessness, occasional difficulties breathing plus numerous, persistent heavy coughs. Even after a nasty bout of pneumonia when he was four years old, ... More
As well as the mood swings, insomnia and weight-gain women of a certain age have to contend with, the menopause can also play havoc with skin. Deeper wrinkles, puffiness and dryness are just some of the problems exacerbated by hormonal changes during this time. "During menopause, levels of the female ... More
The young Christchurch promotions model determined to walk again after tragically losing her legs in the February earthquake is still coping with the ongoing complications ... More
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Over the Teacups
My four-year-old grandson was at the supermarket with his mother when he exclaimed, “You’re buying something, Mummy, auntie is buying something – I want to buy something!” Mum replied, “You have to be big, have a wife, have a job, then you can buy things.” He replied, “I have a wife – Maia,” meaning his four-year-old friend. Mum said, “What about a job?” Master Four replied, “My job is having a wife!”
Robyn, Whangarei
Water you want?
I was in the car and asking Master Three what he wanted for Christmas. He said he was going to ask Santa for a water pistol. “And Nanny,” he added, “I’m going to ask for some water for our paddling pool.” Now that could be interesting!
Julie, by email
Bee gone
Master Three had his first bee sting recently. The incident broke his heart, but after many cuddles he came right. Later he said, “I never want to see another bee again. I don’t like bees any more, I only like flies.”
Gaileen, by email
Fraud with worry
My daughter warned me that “old people are being taken for a ride,” and that I shouldn’t engage in conversation with phone sales people. To this, Master Five piped up, “Nana can’t go on that ride, she’s old.”
Joseph’s Nana, Hamilton
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