The Crest 104 by famouspublishing

NOV-DEC 2021 ISSUE 104

CHEERS!

Here's to a fabulous 2022 Distributed to the communities of Everton, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Kloof, St Helier & Winston Park

Small Modern

FLOWER RING 18ct rose gold, 1.77cts of round brilliant cut diamonds

morningside | 469 innes road | 031 303 4417 umhlanga arch | 1 ncondo drive | 010 013 2116 www.markgold.net

*ed's letter

A Helping Hand

Christmas is a time for giving back and paying it forward. If you haven’t found a charity to spread some love into this year, consider donating food, money or time to the inspiring W KZN Valley Dogs

Make it matter

came across this idea recently – and I’d like to make it part of my long string of wonderful Christmas traditions. Maybe some of you would like to do the same? Over the next few weeks, ask all your friends and family members to write an achievable, non-materialistic

wish on a piece of paper. It can be a wish for themselves, or for someone else. Keep these wishes somewhere safe until you put your Christmas tree up – then hang them all on your tree. If you don’t have a tree, peg them on to a string of fairy lights and hang this up somewhere you can see it well.

On Christmas Eve or Day, read the wishes out loud and chat about how you can make them come true in 2022 without breaking the bank – but rather investing time. Our festive issue is always such a great way to kickstart the year-end holidays, and we never seem to run out of fresh ideas and content to share with you! This year we were incredibly lucky to have the support of a fabulous group of creative and talented people who helped us put together a spectacular spread to feast your eyes on – turn to page 8 to indulge in beautiful decor, glamorous dresses, sparkling jewellery and amazing food. Food, glorious food. What’s Christmas without it? We have lots on our plate in this issue ... literally. Apart from Ant Ellis’s mouth-watering recipes, there are a few summer picnic ideas,

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local goodness with The Farm Stoneford, and we also meet the people behind Frozen For You – who deliver restaurant quality food straight to your home. How convenient! And of course, there’s chocolate. Jordin Shelly’s artistic masterpieces is the perfect Christmas treat for anyone with a sweet tooth who appreciates good quality chocolate. Still struggling to find a different kind of gift? Take a look at our featured board games in Trending, encouraging heaps of togetherness and fun, and stand a chance to win the brand new Comrades Marathon Centenary Monopoly. How was 2021 for you? This Christmas, don’t make it all about expensive gifts. Make it about being together – sharing love, food, laughter, joy and memories. Make it matter! Wishing you all the best for 2022.

TALK TO US

katrine@famouspublishing.co.za www.thecrestonline.co.za W Crest Magazine

in this issue* GROUP EDITOR Doody Adams 083 325 7341 EDITOR Katrine Anker-Nilssen 083 309 6736 PRODUCTION EDITOR Lorna King GRAPHIC DESIGN Kyle Griffin SALES CONSULTANT Anneline Domnick 066 254 0621 DISTRIBUTION Mphumzeni Thusi ACCOUNTS & DISTRIBUTION QUERIES Meghan Dewet 083 533 5898 ONLINE EDITOR Sarah Mackintosh CONTRIBUTORS Michigan Behn, Darrel Bristow-Bovey, Cathy Clark, Wendy-Leigh Cousins, Ant Ellis, Mark Gold, Shirley le Guern, Sarah Mackintosh, Stephen Smith, Francois Vedemme, Tanya Visser; Lisa Walters Copyright: All material in this issue is subject to copyright and belongs to Famous Publishing unless otherwise indicated. No part of the material may be quoted, photocopied, reproduced or stored by an electronic system without prior written permission from Famous Publishing. Disclaimer: While every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication, neither the authors nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information contained herein. Neither do they endorse any products/services advertised herein. Material which appears under ‘Advertorial’ is paid for. *To the people of Everton, Gillitts, Hillcrest, Kloof, St Helier and Winston Park, the office parks, the residential estates and, of course, all our advertisers, thank you for your continued support.

32 FESTIVE LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

Published by Famous Publishing www.famouspublishing.co.za Printed by Novus Managed distribution by Vibrant Direct

LIFESTYLE 8

WRAP IT UP

CALL OF THE FOREST 26 50

Creative table decor to do yourself

COMMUNITY

WE ALSO PUBLISH ...

In compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4, if you do not want to receive The Crest magazine for free, please email sarah.mackintosh@famouspublishing.co.za For more information visit: www.famouspublishing.co.za

Dale Grobler's lifelong vision

MEET THE VALLEY DOGS

Inspiring help for our underprivileged friends

STRONGER TOGETHER

Locals supporting locals initiative

SEPARATION ANXIETY WORKING TOGETHER

ED’S LETTER 1 TAKE NOTE 4 TRENDING 58 LAST WORD 64

ADVERTORIALS

MJ ACCOUNTANTS ACTION COACH WATERFALL COLLEGE SIYANQOBA WORLDWIDE EXPRESS POINT-S HILLCREST FROZEN FOR YOU SEEFF JUST PURE HEALTH THE BOND GIRL ITALTILE

A new project that is making headway

CHOCOLATE BLISS

Honeywood Forest Lodge

Advice to get you through this common problem

Jordin Shelly's passion for chocolate

The best food for picnic celebrations

LOCAL GOODNESS

REGULARS

Creative ways to wrap gifts

LIFE'S A PICNIC

BOLD IMPRESSION Swedish luxury at its very best

Celebrate the festive season, holidays and New Year with ideas galore – table settings, delicious food, glitzy fashion and jewellery

FESTIVE TABLE

The ABC logo is a valued seal of trust, providing measurement, compliance and auditing services which protects the way advertising is traded. The Crest is ABC audited and certified.

ON THE COVER: FESTIVE FEELS. PICTURE: MICHIGAN BEHN

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7 11 15 23 34 42 48 52 56 57

FI N LA A U L P N H C A H S ED E

YOUR STORY CONTINUES WHE RE Y O U GE T T O LIVE YOU R W AY, EVERY DAY! The depictions herein are for illustration purposes only and are subject to change without prior notice.

STYLISH NEW VILLAGE HOMES FROM

R2,95 million The Village is a celebration of modern life tailored to a brand-new generation of retirees – because you do things differently. Brought to you by KZN’s leading residential estate developers, Collins Residential, Mount Edgecombe Village is an exclusive development situated within Kindlewood Estate. There are a variety of tasteful homes and apartments to choose from, all single level.

Wetlands & Walking Trails

Community Clubhouse

Sporting & Fitness Facilities

Pet-friendly Living

At Mount Edgecombe Village the sense of security, comfor t and joy of connecting with family and friends is effor tless. Centrally located within Umhlanga, just a stone’s throw away from shopping centres, beaches, restaurants, friends and family, Mount Edgecombe Village is where you get to

Organised Community Events

Care Centre

Café & Restaurant

live in full colour.

E N Q U I R E N O W M E R V. C O . Z A | D AV E 0 8 3 4 5 6 1 8 9 7

take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP EKAMU - Proudly South African “Ekamu started off in 2012 as an African inspired street wear brand for adults, and have since evolved to serve a wider audience with kid’s clothes and ladies genuine leather sandals,” says 32-year-old founder Nkanyiso Mngoma, who employs a team of five. Ekamu’s genuine leather sandals are handmade in the heart of the township of Hammarsdale, and curated one stitch at a time. “Not only have we kept our African inspired theme throughout our evolution, but we have also maintained a standard of quality that ensures that our products are comfortable and durable, while offering a level of practicality and style,” he says – adding that they showcased at the Africa Fashion Week in London in 2015. “What makes us unique is authenticity,” says Nkanyiso. “As a brand, Ekamu remains true to its African roots. The name Ekamu means Africa in west African slang, and has been a reminder of who we are throughout our journey. We celebrate Africa and its rich culture and diversity, and aspire to represent Africa – whether in its

most unique form, or with a touch of contemporary”. Ekamu also believes in the upliftment of society through social outreach. “Ekamu has a social enterprise, inkanyiso school shoes, which is our sister brand to which we donate a portion of every purchase. Inkanyiso school shoes has since donated and distributed over 12 500 pairs of school shoes nationwide with the help of social partners. As a brand we are so honoured to be a part of a journey of a thousand miles, made possible by the continuous support of our customers who have become our family.” FOR MORE INFO: www.ekamu.co.za; 078 540 7052; africa@ekamu.co.za

FABULOUS BEDS For Your Furry Friends

SUPPORT LOCAL

Needing a new bed for your dog or cat? Look no further! Tucano Pet Beds started in Pietermaritzburg in 2003, relocating to bigger premises in Hammarsdale in 2011. “We currently employ five staff members from the local community. All our beds are manufactured in-house, and we have about 20 different designs and sizes for dogs and cats,” explains owner Anet Coetzee. “Our beds are all filled with high density foam and we supply various vet practices, vet shops and petshops in the greater Durban area.” You can now find Tucano at Mila-Grace in Botha’s Hill as well, with a range of earthy tone and floral fabric beds and cushions. Anet can also do custom-made beds that will fit in with the decor of the home owner – with the bed cover being completely removable for easy washing and cleaning. “We can also make up any size bed to fit into a specific area,” she adds. FOR MORE INFO: 084 569 9091; orders@ tucanopetproducts.co.za; https://tucanopetproducts.co.za

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Once In A BLUE MOON… Hendrick’s Lunar Gin is a most peculiar and unusual gin conceived beneath the celestial light of the moon and yields an alluring complexity and a delightful warmth, which is best suited to refreshing sundowners, nightsipping, moon gazing and other sensible modes of contemplation.

GET INVOLVED!

C.R.O.W. Runs Wild With Their 2022 Calendar The Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife and Compass Cares partnered with talented South African photographer Kierran Allen, who graciously donated wildlife photos to be used in this year’s calendar. His impressive photography of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara inspired the 2022 calendar theme, “Running Wild”. The calendar features a collection of beautiful wildlife photography including photos of the Big 5 in a bold contemporary design. The A2 wall calendar costs R200 and is packaged in an elegant box to make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, or corporate gift. The calendars are also available as an A5 tent calendar for R100, and a CD size desk calendar for R50. The calendar launch also included the Compass Cats 2022 Wild Whiskers Calendar. Each of the 12 kittens and cats in the beautiful A3 calendar has a heart-warming story to share, with some seeking their furever home by adoption. The calendar costs R150 and is packaged in a gorgeous box. Go to compasswasteservices.co.za/compasscares to place your order or view calendar stockists. FOR MORE INFO: Visit their Facebook page for more information. https://www.facebook.com/ compassmedicalcares

FOR MORE INFO: R499,95 for 750ml

editor's choice Oribi Gorge ZIP LINE TOUR The longest zipline tour in Africa, at 4,5km, doesn’t disappoint! Consisting of 14 slides, the most memorable and exhilarating being number six – which soars over the 300m high gorge and offers breath-taking views, this Lake Eland Adventure celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Another zip line crosses over the lake, and if you stretch your toes far enough you might just be able to touch the water. The final slide is through a tunnel and across a river. For those concerned about safety, the lines are inspected by qualified guides every morning, and every six weeks by the engineer whom helped design and build the course. So live a little, step out of your comfort zone, see fear turn into fun … that’s what it is all about! FOR MORE INFO: www.lakeeland.co.za/zip-line/

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take note*

KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP Mousse & WINE PAIRING Granny Mouse in the Midlands have this amazing taste sensation experience on offer. For a mere R165 a person, you can taste three different mousse varietals paired with three different wines. What a treat! Booking is essential as offer is subject to availability, and tasting contains traces of nuts and eggs. FOR MORE INFO: 033 234 4071; reservations@ grannymouse.co.za; www.grannymouse.co.za

Frothy THEATRICAL TREATS The Playhouse Company presents a full and fantastic festive season with a fabulous selection of frothy theatrical treats to be staged over the year-end holidays. Traditionally the festive season is a time of families and whimsy, laughter and fun, pantos and ballet, song and dance. The Playhouse, an agency of the Department of Arts and Culture and the province’s premier theatre complex, has produced a carefully-curated programme of old school nostalgia, with a contemporary twist. • Bigly Yuge: Loft Theatre: Dec 3 & 4 • The Nutcracker: Opera Theatre: Dec 18 &19 • Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs: Drama Theatre: Dec 18-30 FOR MORE INFO: https://playhousecompany.com; tickets available at https://www.webtickets.co.za

EXCELLENCE

IS THE ONLY

CARE WITH ADS RANGING IN PRICE FROM R2 000 TO R25 500, LET US PUT TOGETHER AN ADVERTISING PACKAGE TO SUIT YOUR BUDGET AND NEEDS. Contact Anneline Domnick 066 254 0621 annie.domnick@famouspublishing.co.za

WHY CHOOSE CARE: A family friendly practice with a lively and homely atmosphere.VILLAGE Our style of dentistry focuses on holistic dental KLOOF DENTAL?

care for the whole family. CUSTOMISED TREATMENT PLAN: Each patient receives an Care individualised treatment unique to their Our needs. A family friendly practice with a livelyplan, and homely atmosphere. style of dentistry focuses on holistic dental care for the wholeCARE: family. Our patients come ﬁrst. COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL We practice a team approach and will refer out to trusted Customised Treatment Plan specialists who apply the same professionalism as we do. Each patient receives an individualised treatment plan, unique to their needs. COMMITMENT: We guarantee our work, whether it’s a smile, makeover or Dental a restoration. Comprehensive Care Our patients come first. We practice a team approach and will refer out to trusted specialists who apply the same professionalism as we do.

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*advertorial

s we approach the end of the year, it’s a good time to review and take stock of your personal finances. When it comes to South Africans and their personal finances, research suggests two startling facts: ¥ South Africans on average spend 75% of their take-home pay on repaying debt. ¥ Only 6% of South Africans are able to retire financially free. No matter what your current personal financial situation is, it is never too late to make some changes that will improve your current and future financial position. We would like to suggest the following six golden rules when it comes to taking charge of your finances:  RULE # 1 - Spend less than what you earn If everyone followed rule number 1, no one would have any financial problems. Breaking rule number 1 is the root of many financial problems. If you don’t have the money, you can’t afford it. Avoid the buy now, pay later syndrome.  RULE # 2 - Save first and spend what's left Not the other way around! The first thing you should do when you get paid is to put away your committed savings amount. Whatever is left thereafter is what you have left for spending. If you spend first, you will most probably spend everything and have nothing or very little left to save.

How healthy are your personal

FINANCES?

MELISSA JACOBS OF MJ ACCOUNTANTS TALKS US THROUGH SIX GOLDEN RULES ON HOW TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR FINANCES return on your investment. This may mean putting your ego aside and not driving the fanciest car around, etc.  RULE # 6 - Make full use of all the tax allowances available to you Have a professional help you with your taxes to ensure you are making full use of tax-free investments and claiming all the available deductions against your taxable income.

 RULE # 3 - Other than your house and car, pay cash for everything Very few people are able to buy a house and/or car for cash, so we regard these as acceptable items to finance via debt. For everything else, save the cash and then buy the item. Following this rule will ensure you never get over-indebted.  RULE # 4 - Avoid debt at all costs There is good debt and bad debt. Good debt would be a bond on your house. Bad debt

ABOVE: Suné Alexander and Melissa Jacobs.

would be credit card debt, short term loans, personal overdraft, etc. These types of debt are expensive and if you don’t manage them well, can land you in a debt trap.  RULE # 5 - Put your money where it grows, not where it shows Avoid the temptation of buying expensive toys to make yourself look rich. Rather invest your money into appreciating assets where you will earn a

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GIVE US A CALL

to discuss your current tax affairs and how we can assist to legally reduce these. Contact Melissa melissa@mjacc.co.za; 087 821 7110; www.mjacc.co.za

MJ CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

celebrate*

Let the good times

ROLL

FAMILY, FRIENDS, FOOD, FUN – THE SECRET TO THE PERFECT FESTIVE SEASON. AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO PUT 2021 BEHIND US AND CELEBRATE THE JOYS, HAPPINESS, FRIENDSHIPS AND GOOD HEALTH THAT AWAIT US IN 2022

LEFT: Interior

deocrator Lisa Walters. RIGHT: Large classic flower ring with lemon quartz and diamonds; small modern flower ring with peridot and diamonds; white gold classic flower earrings with blue topaz and diamonds. All Mark Gold.

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he past two years have thrown unprecedented challenges at us, but as we head towards 2022 let’s leave the bad memories behind us and promise that next year will be about making at least one good memory every day. Shining spirits, festive cheer, gorgeous glam, easy food – we’ve got it all packed into this issue of The Crest.

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Flip the pages and feast on ideas galore to bring a festive holiday mood into your home. From stunning table decor, cocktails to celebrate the occasion, party food, glitzy designer outfits and jewellery to dazzle, there is no time to celebrate like the now, so join us on a spectacular festive ride filled with ideas to make this holiday season the best ever. Let’s raise a glass and embrace the New Year with an abundance of hope and happiness.

celebrate*

“The black Christmas tree was the starting point for my inspiration,” says uMhlanga interior decorator Lisa Walters. “I thought this tree and look would translate beautifully with the colour palette of my home. I love things to be tonal, so I chose elements that fit well together.” Lisa wanted the theme to be more of a celebration – not a traditional Christmas. “To me, even though I have young children, times have changed. I wanted to have my own spin on the look and feel, one that could be interpreted for a Christmas occasion, New Year party,

birthday party – in fact any celebration, not just Christmas. I also wanted the mood to be glam, luxe, playful and fun.” Two Christmas trees is not the norm, but the new black tree teamed beautifully with Lisa’s old favourite silver tree. And decorated

with baubles, faux birds, bows and poinsettias in shades of gold, silver, black and white – all colours found in Lisa’s home – the look certainly was impressive. The black tree and decorations are all from uMhlanga Rocks SUPERSPAR Decor Division.

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*advertorial

ith only a month to go until the end of the year, there is no doubt that the temptation to “give up” on this year and get into festive mode is there. While this seems like an appealing option, considering the tough 2021 that South Africans – especially KZN residents – have had to endure, this would be a major missed opportunity. As entrepreneurs we must use this last stretch of the year to finish strong. We must also remember that for most businesses the financial year ends at the end of February, so still a whole quarter to go. Here are our top tips on how to use the next three months to finish the financial year strong:

Clear Goals Ensure that you have clear goals for the last quarter of the year so that you can finish the financial year on a good note. Not only do you need to be clear on the goals you are chasing, but you need to

Is your tank

EMPTY?

DARRYN LE GRANGE SHARES ADVICE ON HOW TO FINISH THE FINANCIAL YEAR STRONG

be clear on the actions that need to be taken to achieve these goals. As they say, a goal without a plan is just a dream.

Need some guidance?

Review The Year Taking stock of the year that has been is such a valuable exercise. What worked for you this year, and what didn’t? What were the biggest lessons? Which of your team members performed well, who didn’t? What do you need to do differently next year? Don’t do this exercise on your own – get your team involved. You will be pleasantly surprised by the combined contribution and ideas.

Next Year's Budget The last quarter of the year

Take us up on our offer of a complimentary consultation where we will explore how you could take your business up a notch or two in 2022. Email darrynlegrange@ actioncoach.com to request your session. is a great opportunity to start working on next year’s budget. Ask your team members for their wish lists, get clear on the underlying growth assumptions and define the target profit. You then put the

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ABOVE: From left, Deborah Coskey, Natasha Swartz, Chenal Brummer and Darryn Le Grange. budget together line by line until it reflects the target profit on the bottom line.

Marketing Plan Marketing is the key to business success, so start drafting your marketing plan now. The key decisions to make are: ¥ Which marketing strategies will you be using. ¥ What marketing budget you have available. ¥ Plan the timing of each strategy, so that all that’s left to do is execution. So many of our clients have had record months this year. Why? Because they did all of the above and more. Success is about following a proven recipe for your business – so find your recipe, follow it, and most importantly, have fun along the way.

www.actioncoachignite.co.za W ActionCOACHIgnite

celebrate*

ABOVE: Dean is wearing a bespoke sateen shawl collar tuxedo in a Cerruti superfine wool fabric and a Stenströms textured fitted body superior two-fold cotton tuxedo shirt.

Homemade Mince Pies With Fresh Fruit & Spiced Gold Take a break from the mass-produced pies – these beauties are the grown-up version, packed with sweet and spicy festive flavour. “Be warned,” says Ant, “plan ahead, the mincemeat needs a couple of days to develop.” Makes 24 Mincemeat: 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated •250g raisins or sultanas, chopped •110g dried apricots, finely chopped •175g soft dark brown sugar •zest and juice of 1 small orange •zest and juice of 1 lemon •50g almonds, chopped •1 tsp ground allspice •1/2 tsp ground nutmeg •1 tsp ground cinnamon •4 tbsp spiced gold rum, dark rum or brandy Pastry: 350g plain flour •125g icing sugar •pinch of fine salt •125g cold butter, diced •5ml vanilla extract •2 medium eggs, beaten Crumble topping: 75g plain flour •½ tsp ground cinnamon •50g butter, diced •50g brown sugar •3 tbsp almonds, chopped Decorate: icing sugar for dusting Mincemeat: Simply add all mincemeat ingredients to a bowl. Mix well, cover and

ABOVE: Francois is wearing a bespoke peaked sateen lapel tuxedo in a Dormeuil superfine wool fabric and a Stenströms pleated fitted body superior two-fold cotton tuxedo shirt.

Lisa dressed her table with a cloth she had made, and layered it with items she already had, as well as new decor items that blended beautifully with her theme. Each table setting had two underplates – one glass plate, and one black and gold rimmed underplate. The finishing touches to the table were stags with candles, various vessels filled with white peonies, Celebrate candles from the SOH Collection with festive scents, and various decor items that resonated with Lisa.

refrigerate for a minimum of 48 hours, stirring every 6-8 hours. Pastry: Add flour, icing sugar, salt and butter to a food processor or mixer, blend to fine crumbs. While blender is still running, add vanilla and egg, process until mixture is clumpy and holds together as a ball. If too wet, add flour, and if too dry, add teaspoons of iced water to bring the dough together. Knead for a minute until smooth, then wrap in cling film and refrigerate until firm, up to 48 hours. Roll out on a lightly floured surface to 3mm thick and cut into rounds. Press each pastry round gently into each hole of a sprayed or buttered muffin or cupcake tray. Spoon a generous tablespoon of mincemeat into each pastry shell, then refrigerate. While chilling, preheat oven to 180°C. Crumble topping: Combine all ingredients into a crumbly mixture, then work with your fingers to form clumps. Top mince pies with crumble. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until pastry and crumble are crisp and golden. Cool, then transfer to a wire rack. When completely cool, dust with icing sugar.

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Lisa's tips Texture: For fairly neutral colour tones, play with varying textures. On the table much of this is evident: Two large pewter stag candleholders (with ombre candles); small glass candle votives in black and gold glass; solid marble candle vessels; bone boxes; linen napery; velvet ribbons on

hand-made paper with gold bells made by Indigo & Ivory Designs; gold foiling on handmade crackers (SOH Collection); leather boxes with brass edging; marble look black decorative boxes; mirrored disco balls; glass urns with marble and gold foiling detail; Perspex swizzle sticks; glass Christmas

trees; and fresh flowers to add softness.  Height: I also like to use decor items of varying heights so that the table is not visually at one height, but has variance, which makes it interesting. I stacked bone boxes for height, and topped with other decorative items. Using candle sticks at different heights also helps achieve this, as do flowers which I used in two different vessels on this table.

Kids Easy Oatmeal Cookies With Cranberries, Apricots & Yogurt Frosting Get the kiddos away from the screens for an hour to bake up these rustic, delicious Christmassy treats and decorate like the little lunatics they are. Squares: 2 cups cake wheat flour •2 cups raw oats •1/2 tsp salt •1 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda •280ml butter, melted •1 cup soft brown sugar, packed •3 tsp vanilla extract •80g dry cranberries, roughly chopped •1 cup of fruit jam Yogurt frosting: 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt •6 heaped tbsp icing sugar •1 tsp vanilla extract Squares: Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a square or rectangular pan with foil or baking paper (leave a bit overhanging on two sides for easy removal). Spray well with non-stick spray. In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, salt and bicarb of soda.

In a separate large bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar and 3 teaspoons vanilla until well combined. Add cranberries, stir well until fully combined. Separate out about ¾ cup (just less than half) of the dough and set aside for topping. Add the bigger portion of dough to the prepared pan and press down into a flat, even layer. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and carefully spread jam on top of cookie base. Use the reserved dough to crumble over top of jam layer. Return to oven and bake for 14-16 more minutes, until topping is golden brown. Remove and place pan on a wire rack to cool, slice when half cool. These can be soft when they are warm – to firm up further, refrigerate. Yogurt frosting: Mix yogurt, icing sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla (add a touch of milk if necessary to loosen), and decorate the cooled squares.

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*advertorial

ince its establishment in 2004, Waterfall College has changed dramatically. But one thing that has not changed is Principal Jeanette van der Merwe’s passion for quality education and for getting the best out of everyone – teacher and student. During that time, Jeanette has carried the role of Principal with courage, compassion and a commitment to working with students and their families. As Principal and one of only two full-time teachers in the early days, Mrs Van (as she is affectionately known) led the school from 46 students in three prefab classrooms to a well-recognised IEB high school with a staff of 26 and over 200 students. Her contribution did not stop there, as she was instrumental in forming Waterfall Schools, which now has over 700 students on the iThemba Campus, from 12 months of age to Matric. This development has included spacious classrooms, sports fields and, most recently, state-of-the-art science labs. The old Waterfall College motto, Per ardua ad perfectum (Through hard work excellence

ABOVE: Aerial view of Waterfall College. TOP: Jeanette van der Merwe (far right)

hands over leadership of Waterfall College to her Deputy, Bryony Green (second from the left), and her management team - Vivienne Lamplough, Greg Kyle and Jayne Cansfield (not in the photo).

Driven by faith in

EDUCATION THIS DECEMBER JEANETTE VAN DER MERWE HANDS OVER THE REINS AS PRINCIPAL OF WATERFALL COLLEGE – A ROLE SHE HAS FULFILLED WITH FAITH AND PROFESSIONALISM

is achieved), best describes Mrs Van – a true lady who leads by example, putting in the hours and doing what needs to be done. “Jeanette will perhaps be recognised most as leader of an influential team of experts in their field,” says Danie van den Heever, Chairman of the Board, Waterfall College NPC. “Jeanette’s God-fearing personality and her intentional prayer is key to all that has transformed before us and has been of great comfort to many. Her professional approach and her resourceful can-do attitude, coupled with her constant energy, have enabled us to achieve astounding results on the iThemba Campus.” Ever-humble, Jeanette emphasises the team effort in every achievement, from the retired teachers who answered her call to continue teaching in the early days to the

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parents who pray for the school every day. At the end of 2021, Mrs Van will hand over the role of Principal to Bryony Green, who has been part of the College management team for over 10 years. Jeanette will remain as a Director on the Board of Waterfall College NPC and will oversee Waterfall Online and the programme of extra lessons that it provides. The Dalai Lama famously said: “When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts.” Mrs Van has definitely educated minds and has never forgotten to educate her students’ hearts. FOR MORE INFO www.waterfallschools.co.za; W and @waterfallcollege

celebrate*

Mood: I used flowers that were soft, flowing and gentle, and not too structured, with the colour toning with the decor. Lots of candlelight added mood and drama, while subtly-scented candles were placed on the table as well as around the room. In my opinion there is nothing more stunning than a room that smells beautiful in a signature scent you love. Partnering with Lisa, Wendy-Leigh Cousins from Indigo & Ivory Designs

designed complementary stationery to feel festive, tactile and personal with the modern star element, touches of gold and hand-made paper carried throughout. Notecard: For the notecard WendyLeigh designed a custom scallop flap envelope in a LUX black cross hatch card. The personalised notecard was made from a pillowy cotton hand-made paper with each envelope featuring gold script and fine lurex thread for the closure. Ring in the new year/bells: At each

setting we placed a deckled edge note with an oversized velvet bow and carried through the same bell and star element.  Menu: A mini glass and gold frame housed the festive menu, with detail of the deckled edging from the hand-made paper.  Bar signage and swizzle sticks: The mini frosted Perspex bar sign featured fun 3D Perspex lettering and carried the star element through on to the custom black Perspex swizzle sticks.

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Pear Crisps With Blue Cheese, Onion Marmalade & Walnuts

Discover Sanele’s story around the mall, follow instructions to play and you could WIN!

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“Slightly cheaty, very delicious. Take my advice – make double, they’ll disappear fast,” says food guru Ant Ellis. •2 ripe pears •onion marmalade or jam • your choice of ripened blue cheese •raw walnuts, chopped •herbs for garnishing To make the crisps, preheat oven to 120°C. Cut off the top and bottom of the pears, thinly slice (about 1mm thick) as uniformly as possible, removing any pips. Lay pear slices on baking trays ensuring they do not overlap. Place in oven for 1 hour 15 minutes. After 1 hour 15 minutes, turn pears and return to oven for a further 1 hour 15 minutes. Turn off oven but leave them in oven for 1 hour more to crisp. Lay out on a serving platter and top each with about a teaspoon of onion marmalade, a crumbling of blue cheese and a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Finish with fresh herbs.

celebrate*

Of course, no celebration is complete without food. Durban foodie Ant Ellis adorned his apron and whipped up easyto-make dishes – including his best-ever Mince Pies (no Christmas is complete with this treat). The canape’s – Pear Crisps with Blue Cheese, and Prawn and Avocado Tostadas – were a real crowd pleaser and were washed down with Ant’s favourite entertaining cocktails. The party had begun. Durban fashion designer Francois Vedemme was tasked with creating bespoke garments “fit for a queen” for our

Grilled Prawn & Avocado Tostadas With Pineapple Pico De Gallo Salsa Quick, bright, fresh and tropical. Just do it. •3 flour tortillas of your choice •cooking oil •extra ground cumin •12 medium prawns, cleaned and shelled •dry rub of 1 tsp each of ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, and a pinch each of salt and black pepper •1 ripe avocado •1 tbsp lemon juice •salt and black pepper •fresh coriander leaves Salsa: 2 cups ripe plum or jam tomatoes, diced (about 6 tomatoes) •½ cup onion, finely diced •½ cup chopped fresh coriander, loosely packed

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Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ festive shoot. Francois spent time with each client finding out their style preference, taking into consideration individual likes and dislikes like preferred length of dress, length of sleeves they were comfortable wearing, neckline, the amount of sparkle they were happy to wear, and the colour theme.

•2 cups pineapple, finely diced •1 jalapeño or serenade pepper, stemmed, cored and finely diced •1 lime, zested and juiced •½ tsp sea salt •¼ tsp ground cumin Salsa: Premake salsa by mixing all ingredients except tomatoes, pineapple and coriander. Marinate for an hour. Add tomatoes, pineapple and coriander, refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours before serving (will last up to 3 days in the fridge). Check seasoning and add salt to taste. Tostadas: Preheat oven to 180°C. Using

ABOVE LEFT: Wendy wears a one shoulder,

hand beaded mermaid-style dress with bow detail on shoulder and cut-out detail on bodice. ABOVE MIDDLE: Nicole looks great in a sparkle jumpsuit with built-in corset, draped cup and sleeve detail. ABOVE RIGHT: Lisa wears a classic black gown with a deep V-neckline, puffed sleeves and hand beaded flower detail.

a round cookie cutter, cut 24 small rounds out of the tortillas. Brush both sides with cooking oil and a touch of cumin. Lay on a non-stick baking sheet and bake for 8-12 minutes, turning once. Cool. To assemble: Mix prawns with dry rub and grill in a hot skillet for 2 minutes on each side until cooked, set aside. Mash avo with lemon juice, salt and pepper. Spoon a flat layer on to each tostada. Set one prawn on each, cover with salsa and fresh coriander leaves and a final squeeze of lime juice if desired.

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celebrate*

Lamb Chop Tray Bake With Olives, Thyme & Mediterranean Vegetables

In a mixing bowl, mix lemon zest and juice with half the olive oil, garlic, thyme and a good pinch each of salt and cracked black pepper. Add lamb chops, mix well to coat and set aside to marinate for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 220°C. Toss potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and season. Tip into a large, shallow roasting pan or casserole tray, cook for 15 minutes. Remove dish and shake to loosen potatoes. Add peppers, onion, thyme sprigs and tomatoes. Drizzle with remaining oil, season. Return to oven for another 10 minutes. Mix, then place lamb cutlets on top of vegetables. Scatter olives and capers over. Cook for a further 10-12 minutes, turning lamb halfway through until pink inside. Serve straight from the tray with a salad.

Holiday days can be just as busy as work days. If you’ve got hungry family staying with you and you ain’t feeling a complicated dinner, get this in the oven and grab that well-deserved glass of wine. •6 lamb loin chops, half the fat trimmed off •4 tbsp olive oil •1 clove garlic, crushed •zest and juice of 1 lemon •500g baby potatoes, cut into 5mm thick slices •1 onion, cut into eighths •1 red pepper, deseeded and sliced •1 yellow pepper, deseeded and sliced •4 sprigs thyme, leaves picked from and chopped •1 cup rosa/ cherry tomatoes, halved •50g black olives, pitted •3 tbsp capers, rinsed • salt and black pepper

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Easy Pavlova With Summer Berries & Berry Coulis “This is my friend Nicky’s top-notch recipe. It’s a classic, simpler than you think and perfect for the festive or holiday table. A great way to end a meal,” says Ant. Meringue base: 6 egg whites •375g castor sugar •3 tsp cornflour •1½ tsp white wine vinegar •½ tsp vanilla extract Topping: 500ml double cream or Orley Whip (the latter my recommendation) Berry coulis: •340g frozen mixed berries •1⁄4 cup water •4 tbsp sugar •pinch of salt •1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed To serve: large handful each of strawberries, blueberries/blackberries, raspberries •sprigs of fresh mint

Meringue base: Preheat oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with baking paper and draw a rough 25cm diameter circle on it (trace a plate with a pencil or similar). Whisk egg whites until satiny peaks form, then whisk in castor sugar, a tablespoonful at a time, until meringue is stiff and shiny. It’s ready when you rub a bit of the mixture between your thumb and index finger and it’s not grainy. Sprinkle cornflour, vinegar and vanilla extract over meringue, fold in lightly with a metal spoon. Mound meringue on to baking paper within the circle and use a spatula to make an indentation in the centre (about the size of a side plate) with high sides in which to place your topping. Put in oven and immediately

reduce heat to 120°C. Cook for 1 hour. Turn off oven and leave to cool completely with door closed, or leave in oven overnight. Once cool, the base can be stored for up to 2 days. Berry coulis: Add berries, sugar, water and salt to a pan, cook until sugar is dissolved. Purée if desired in a blender and stir through lemon juice. To assemble: Carefully peel off baking paper from meringue. Whip cream or Orley Whip until thick, and scoop into meringue indentation, spreading to edges in a swirly fashion and covering over any cracks in the meringue. Drizzle a generous amount of coulis on to the cream (ensuring no contact with the meringue). Decorate with fresh berries and mint.

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celebrate*

Champagne Margarita

Kentucky Buck Get a surprisingly fresh, fruity and decidedly summery kick from this badass baby, a riff on the world famous Moscow Mule. •2 tot measures bourbon •1 tot measure lemon juice, freshly squeezed •1 strawberry, halved •½ tot measure simple syrup (method below) •ginger beer •2 dashes bitters •1 strawberry for garnish •lemon wheel for garnish Simple syrup: •1 cup water •1 cup white sugar Simple syrup: Heat 1 cup of water in a pot (not boiling), then add 1 cup of white sugar. Stir until dissolved, and cool. Bottle and refrigerate. Cocktail: To make the cocktail, muddle the strawberry and lemon juice in a glass, then add with the bourbon and simple syrup to an ice-filled cocktail shaker (if you don’t have one, a jar will do). Strain into a tall glass filled with ice, top off with a splash of ginger beer, add bitters, and garnish with strawberry and lemon.

Margaritas rule. Champagne rules. You get where I’m going? Festive and summery all in one, and beautifully fresh. For each drink: coarse salt for rimming glasses •1 tot measure silver tequila, chilled •1 tot measure orange liqueur • juice of a fresh lime, reserved •½ teaspoon honey (optional) • champagne or prosecco, chilled • lime slices for serving Cover a saucer with coarse salt. Moisten rim of a glass with squeezed lime, turn upside down on the salt-covered plate and turn until the rim of the glass is coated in salt. In an ice-filled cocktail shaker, shake tequila, lime juice, honey (optional) and orange liqueur. Pour into your prepared glass, top up with chilled champagne or prosecco, and garnish with lime slices.

Credits Decor & Styling: Lisa Walters-Hunter, Lisa Walters Interior Design Pictures: Michigan Behn Photography Creative collaborator: Nicole Kruger, @KruandCo_official Food and cocktails: Antony Ellis Dresses: Francois Vedemme Fashion Suits: Armitage Mens Outfitters Jewellery: Mark Gold Stationery: Wendy-Leigh Cousins, Indigo & Ivory Decorations: uMhlanga Rocks SUPERSPAR Decor Division Crackers and candles: SOH Collection by Sarah McGregor Cake: Monz Macarons

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*advertorial

t’s rare. A courier company with its head office in Durban, but Larry and Gill Wittstock loved – and love – where they live, and knew it could work. Today it’s one of the fastest growing express courier companies in South Africa. It’s a proudly South African, proudly KZN … and with a national and international footprint. “Seventeen years ago, we began SWE in my son’s bedroom,” laughs MD, Gill Wittstock. Gill was by no means new to the industry, and brought extensive sales and operations knowledge to the table, while husband Larry, a CA, added the all-important financial acumen. Gill knew that, with her absolute passion for the industry, she could build it from anywhere – a bedroom in Durban did just fine. Recently, Larry has become CEO, and Gill that of MD. SWE has a solidly established footprint throughout South Africa and internationally, with branches in the main centres, and dedicated agents in all areas throughout SA. Over the years many independent SA courier companies have been bought out by larger global companies with only a few of the larger independents remaining. SWE’s client list is impressive, but perhaps even more than that, is their client loyalty. That speaks volumes. SWE has a diverse client base ranging from A-lists to smaller

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SERVICE. NOT LIP SERVICE, BUT SUPREMELY PERSONAL SERVICE. THAT’S THE FOCUS WHICH HAS ENSURED THAT KZN NORTH-COASTBASED SIYANQOBA WORLDWIDE EXPRESS – SWE – COURIERS HAS STOOD OUT FROM THE CROWD FOR OVER 17 YEARS

ABOVE: Owners Larry and Gill Wittstock with staff.

clients, all of whom have been with SWE from the outset. For Larry and Gill, there are two immovable principles by which they and their 250 plus strong staff operate: “Service and communication,” says Larry. “We, and every single one of our staff, are unswerving in our approach to our business. Our clients are not clients – we consider them partners. We are always at the end of the phone, no matter what time, and we make things happen. What appears impossible, is not to us.” In an era where authentic service excellence is lacking, SWE retains that as a constant. All the staff who joined SWE

from Day One are still there, and everyone operates on the same principle – nothing is too much trouble. “It’s a relationship,” says Gill. “Not just a business arrangement. We consider ourselves an extension of the client’s business.” SWE is an independent courier company specialising – but not exclusively – in corporate clients/printing/ retail/shipping/attorneys, and particularly in the time-sensitive area of express freight. That’s what they’re well known and respected for. It’s what Larry, Gill and their staff take great pride in: “We have a passion for it,” says Gill, “so it’s important to us that, to the very best of our ability, we get it right, we get it

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there, and on time. It’s not just business, it’s personal.” Although SWE has grown substantially, the core ethos remains the same: swift, effective communication and superior service levels. Siyanqoba is a Zulu word meaning to win or to conquer, and the name reflects the Wittstock’s commitment to meaningful empowerment. Every staff member has the opportunity to win or conquer and grow through training programmes and advancement incentives. “After 17 years, we really want to thank our staff for their loyalty, support and their heartfelt commitment to our shared goals.” Equally, SWE thanks its amazing client base for accompanying them on this journey: “At SWE, we will continue to do what we do best for the next decade – deliver superior service, partner with you, and continue to build valuable relationships. All from here in our wonderful city of Durban, province of KZN, and nationally.” FOR MORE INFO 031 569 6808; swe.co.za

festive*

 WRAPPING WITH FABRIC The Japanese art of wrapping with fabric is called furoshiki. Use an old tablecloth or T-shirt – as well as dishtowels, scarves or napkins.  PLAIN WHITE PAPER Use a word search or a drawing by your children. Grannies love this. Print out photos of your family members. Attach some wax crayons with some washi tape, the kids can use the paper to draw on after they have unwrapped the gift.  BROWN PAPER A firm favourite, brown paper can be pimped to create fun and happy wrapping. Use a black marker and ask your kids to decorate it. Add some photos or pom poms. Fresh greenery is a great way to glam up brown paper, use rosemary or another herb and create a little wreath. We feast with all our senses, wrapping can be a beautiful starter to the gift inside.  GIFT WRAPPING FOR WORDS Words are so much more important than things, and words of affirmation have lasting effects on us. Put money, love letters or words of affirmation into a fun, pretty balloon. Use pretty toiletry bags, or make home-made envelopes out of old magazine pages. Take two pages and sew them together on your sewing machine. These ideas are great for gifting gift vouchers as well. Speaking about vouchers, have you heard that Talloula has awesome vouchers available for their Garden Spa?  UPCYCLE Let’s not waste this year, get out your old magazines, calendars even newspapers – they can all make lovely, creative wrapping.

Some General Wrapping Tips:

• Choose a theme and co-ordinate your gifts around this theme – think beyond traditional Christmas paper. • Cut paper to the right size. Don’t waste, too much paper equals messy wrapping. • Use ribbon and twine and lovely threads to add to the gift wrapping. • Using boxes makes wrapping easier, as

Wrap it UP

TALLOULA’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SHOWCASE NEVER FAILS TO IMPRESS AND INSPIRE – AND THIS YEAR’S CREATIVE GIFT WRAPPING IDEAS ARE SIMPLY FABULOUS

it avoids strange shapes. A gift in a box is also exciting, it builds anticipation. • Wrap kids presents individually rather than altogether, the more gifts the merrier. Put them under the tree early. Research shows that anticipation is a powerful emotion that can help us live happier lives. • Tags or cards are so important, don’t be tempted to leave them off – nothing is more important than the gift of words. • Scissors, twine, ribbon – have it all ready! • Be eco-friendly. Choose unlaminated paper – paper with no sheen and glitter. If it crinkles and bounces back it has plastic on it. No sticky tape! Calm down the chaos, and make this Christmas matter. And remember, it’s not all about the gifts – but sharing and giving time, love, food, hope and thoughts.

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food*

he good thing about picnics is that it’s definitely not one size fits all. For the most part, the South African picnic has been sarmies on the beach or the inevitable add-on to a braai. Then again, there’s also that romantic picnic in a scenic spot at sunset. According to executive chef, JP le Roux, the new trend is for picnickers to get far more creative. Book clubbers are going alfresco with individual members hosting different themed events with the added challenge of finding a spot that many may not have thought of as picnic worthy – until now. Mom’s groups, too, are spreading their blankets far and wide while those social bubbles that are tired of stoking the coals on the same old stoeps are now packing their baskets as well as some board games and settling under a cool tree a little further afield. Instead of being lured into picking up that inevitable takeaway, those who aren’t culinary artistes do have the option of buying a ready prepared picnic feast through the likes of Dial A Picnic which caters for high teas, gourmet feast boxes, children’s parties and can combine your food with a venue or activity of choice. There’s also do a DIY version where they provide the food and you do the rest. Other good options for a pre-prepared basket are the

Life's a

PICNIC! TRADITIONAL PICNICS ARE MAGICAL AND, WITH THE ARRIVAL OF SUMMER AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AS WELL AS THAT EVER-LURKING PROBLEM WITH COVID-19 AND CROWDED INDOOR SPACES, THIS COULD BE THE IDEAL WAY TO ENJOY CREATIVE CUISINE IN A BEAUTIFUL NATURAL SETTING, WRITES SHIRLEY LE GUERN

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Gwahumbe nature reserve in mid-Illovo or The Harvest store at Hillcrest’s Camp Orchards. But, according to Chef JP, much of the fun is in packing your own basket to either cater for a crowd or to spread around in bring-and-share style. To prove his point, he created his own which he entitled JP’s Flamboyant Forage Feast – a perfectly practical picnic that incorporates food that can be easily assembled and served at room temperature. JP starts with a Mediterranean salad which combines fresh radishes, pitted Kalamata olives, peppered feta, rocket, picante pepper

LEFT: Peal Pearl Ngcobo,

Namhla Zungu and Chef JP le Roux enjoy a picnic in style.

dews, baby spinach leaves, a sweet basil herb dressing and homemade traditional tzatziki, made from double cream yogurt, cucumber, garlic and fresh lime. Then comes the crispy tempura prawns with a taramasalata dip. Just prior to leaving home, he dunked his prawns in a tempura flour mix and panko breadcrumbs, deep fried them and left them on a kitchen towel to cool. He serves them with fresh lime and »

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food*

Ace Ace your your Maths! Maths!

taramasalata (a fish row dip). Also on JP’s picnic menu is charred melon wedges which have been pre-prepared in a pan with olive oil and a dash of brown sugar. His adds trimmings such as streaks of prosciutto (a delicate Italian ham), Austrian cream cheese, fresh rocket and then dresses it with a tangy olive and balsamic vinaigrette and pomegranate molasses. JP’s phyllo pastry pockets are made by pressing squares of thawed phyllo pastry into muffin pans, brushing them with olive oil and then baking them for about eight minutes. Pack when cooled. The filling – grilled chicken breast, grilled pineapple, a dash of coconut cream, fresh dhanya and smoked paprika can be mixed and stored separately and then spooned into the pastry cups before serving. His Perfect Peppa dish includes roasted bell peppers, thyme, garlic cut Spanish chorizo, peppadews, blistered Romanita tomatoes, roasted sunflower seeds, and fresh Italian parsley. All can be mixed together in a salad bowl with a lid and then packed in the basket. His two sides are homemade beetroot humus (chickpeas mashed with salt and pepper and a dash of beetroot juice or beetroot vinegar to add some bright picnic colour) served on toasted olive bread and Melba toast with creamy blue cheese, traditional biltong and fig preserve.

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LIFE’S A HOLIDAY AT RENISHAW HILLS, SCOTTBURGH

At Renishaw Hills, our residents live the holiday all year round through an ideal balance of lifestyle, facilities and community. Our unwavering commitment to all three makes a home in our village on the Mid-South Coast the height of investment potential and above all, happy living. The best of Mother Nature in our back yard means spectacular indigenous gardens, walking trails, sea views, and coastal forest expanses that provide a coveted feeling of unrestricted living. World-class security, home-based care, a community centre, pool, comprehensive levy and more, make Renishaw Hills a well-rounded offering for those who value convenience and priceless peace of mind, the makings of any unforgettable holiday. Experience the magic of Renishaw Hills with a private tour before the year is over. Email sales@renishawhills.co.za or take our virtual tours on our website.

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food*

Local story stephen smith pictures supplied

oodies of Upper Highway, prepare to be excited! Dale Grobler, well-known local organic farmer from Farm to Forks in Monteseel, and Stoneford Country Estate have a big new collaborative project on the go, and it’s going to be a cracker. For a few years now, Dale has been growing world-class organic veg for some of the country’s best restaurants, just up the road from Hillcrest. He is passionate about what he does, which is no doubt why he achieves the results he does, and he conveys that passion in everything he says and does. With KZN’s riots in July, food security was brought into sharp focus, as were the advantages of eating locally produced food. And, to be honest, the ridiculousness of how much food is trucked around the country. For Dale, these revelations were nothing new – he has been a fierce proponent of locally grown organic produce for years – but it has increased demand for produce such as his. Enter Stoneford Country Estate. The property developer has long dreamt of establishing a working organic farm at Stoneford Country Estate. In reconsidering what Phase 2 of the estate should be, he started thinking about what would make a real positive difference to the way we live, and how could the Stoneford homeowner enjoy a better quality life – living in a country environment, with all that should come with that, on the urban edge. The result: The Farm Stoneford, with Dale at the helm. The project is already underway, with over 14 000m² of land cleared and levelled for the farm. Dale has got plant stock growing on his farm, ready to make the move to Stoneford, so things are happening fast.

GOODNESS BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING FOR DALE GROBLER AND UPPER HIGHWAY FOODIES …

D “We should have produce ready for harvesting by December,” Dale says. “But that’s only the beginning. We are putting in such exciting plants: there will be 4 000m² of fruit, from berries to coffee, citrus and cacao, and even indigenous edibles like Kei apples and monkey oranges. The fruit will obviously take longer to get established. And there

will be spices, herbs, medicinal plants – just about anything that can be grown and used. “And everything is being done as responsibly as we can – the water will be from the farm and will be pumped using solar power, we will chip as much organic matter from the farm as we can to make compost, and we will be 100% organic and

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LEFT: A ladybird investigates freshly harvested Swiss chard.

ABOVE: Dale Grobler. OPPOSITE: Heirloom tomatoes – bursting with flavour.

BELOW: A misty day at Dale’s organic farm in Monteseel.

real. You can’t fake it with a garden like this!” Dale is so excited about this project, and it’s contagious. Down the line, a deli, restaurant and function venue will be established in and amongst The Farm. “The deli will sell fresh produce from The Farm, and also from the immediate area – we have such great produce in the area that we would love to showcase. We’ll also make things like sauces and pickles from our produce.” The goal is a world-class garden farm producing exceptional food, and the plan is for there to be a chef as fine as the produce to create meals of distinction on the property. Dale is also planning on luring celebrity chefs along for “pop-up” menus, for want of a better term. Think of some of the best wine farms down in the Cape and all they have to offer, and you’ll be close to the mark. You will be able to go along and pick produce, buy food from the deli and have a picnic (don’t feed the ducks!) or a meal at the restaurant. And this is all happening 10 minutes from Hillcrest, in our own back yard.

FOR MORE INFO @farm_to_forks; W Farmtoforksdurban; @stonefordestate; W /stonefordestate

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advertorial*

eet the owners of your local family-owned and run Point-S Hillcrest; husband and wife team Angie and Warrick. Angie has been in the tyre industry for over 16 years – both in manufacturing and retail – giving her a wealth of knowledge, while Warrick has a long history as a successful entrepreneur in the transport and logistics sector. The couple has owned their tyre shop in Oxford Village for over five years. Q: Tell us about the brand changes you have made? We strongly believe that independent tyre store owners can only survive by teaming up together, because together we are stronger. The Point-S business model is just that. Although we are currently only one tyre fitment centre, we benefit from a collective buying power as a group. This buying power allows us to be competitive in the market with quality products – where the focus is not only on tyres alone, but on related safety critical components such as brakes, shocks, suspension components, windscreen wipers and batteries. The Point-S business model is a win for both us and our customers. Q: Can you tell us more about the Point-S brand? Originally a French tyre dealer association created by independent business entrepreneurs in 1971, Point-S is today the biggest independent tyre dealer network in the world – with over 5 669 stores in 46 countries. The brand is not owned by a tyre manufacturer, and in 2012 12 tyre dealers brought the Point-S brand and concept to South Africa. On October 1, 2021 Point-S Hillcrest became the 80th store in South Africa. Since then the group has grown to 85 stores. Q: What is your service offering at Point-S Hillcrest? We offer our customers multiple brands of tyres at competitive prices. We also have

We will go the extra mile to bring you the best service and value possible for your

individual needs

a value-for-money house brand – exclusive to the Point-S group. We supply and fit Sabat/Willard batteries, which come with a 25-month warranty – excellent value for money. We also supply and fit brakes, shocks, and wheels. We only use reputable brands. Our labour charge is extremely competitive. Q: Tell us about the Training School you run from the shop? We train candidates for a career in the tyre industry. We receive funding from

Your tyre

EXPERTS Q&A WITH POINT-S HILLCREST’S ANGIE AND WARRICK

merSETA, which means we can offer these courses to unemployed people free of charge. It has been rewarding giving back to our community in this way. Q: What is your association with the Reach for a Dream foundation? For the last two years, Tyrelife Solutions and Point-S Hillcrest have been the main sponsors of a Reach for a Dream Golf Day held at Cotswold Downs. This year we raised R220 000 – which will be used to make dreams of terminally ill children come true. Next year’s golf day will be in September. Q: Tell us about your specials running over this festive season? We are overly excited about our buy

four tyres get one free special; it’s one of the reasons we have brought the Point-S brand to the Upper Highway area. The Continental special on 17-inch and above – buy four tyres get one free – is running until December 15 while stocks last. FOR MORE INFO 031 765 2165; www.point-s.co.za; angief@point-s.co.za

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Willard-Point-S-Crest-Ad-100-x-135mm-Ad-PRINT.indd 1

For the past 33 years REACH FOR A DREAM has been inspiring hope to children with life threatening illnesses between the ages of 3 and 18 through the power of a dream

031 556 2220 | 072 294 7858 | www.reachforadream.org.za

2021/11/11 12:27

community*

Meet the valley

DOGS A TRULY INSPIRING ORGANISATION HELPS NOT ONLY UNDERPRIVILEGED FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS – BUT A WHOLE COMMUNITY, WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN

couldn’t seem to find any dogs and the community was very suspicious of us, but we kept at it and each time more and more dogs came to eat,” says Ant. “It was tough at first to get sponsors and volunteers, but once people saw the impact it had – we were able to get them onboard.” Carolyn Pierrot, born in Zambia but relocating to the Upper Highway area as a young child, went to school with Ant. “We have known each other for over 40 years, and I joined him and Danielle at Valley Dogs just a month after they initiated the charity.” The NPO has since then grown in leaps and bounds. “From just feeding a few dogs from one vehicle an hour a week, we now feed over 1 000 dogs, numerous cats, chickens and goats, use three vehicles doing three separate routes – which takes around five hours to complete every

very Sunday morning a bunch of committed animal-loving individuals head down into the Inanda Valley to feed and care for over a thousand dogs. While their main aim is improving the health of the valley dogs and educating the owners on how to take care of and manage their pets, they are also making a huge impact by supporting and motivating the community’s two-legged members. Motorbike enthusiast Anthony AsherWood grew up in Hillcrest and has run his business here for 35 years. Spending a lot of time riding in the valley, he saw so many dogs that were starving and sick. “I decided to put something back into the community from where I got so much pleasure riding my bike,” he says. In 2015, together with Danielle Jorre, he started KZN Valley Dogs – today a registered NPO. “The first time we went to feed we

How Can You Help?

• By volunteering your time on a Sunday. Be ready for muddy, paw-stained clothes and lots of love! • By donating dog, cat and chicken food, rice, dewormers, tick and flea treatments, etc. • By donating towards the never-ending vet bill.

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TUCKED AWAY NEXT TO ASSAGAY NURSERY YOU WILL FIND BONA TERRA CAFÉ – THE PERFECT PLACE TO MEET FRIENDS AND FAMILY FOR FRESH, WHOLESOME BREAKFASTS AND LUNCHES ¥ Fabulous kids play areas and activities ¥ Indoor and outdoor seating ¥ Wheelchair accessible and pet friendly WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON! 1 Bona Terra Road, Assagay, bona-terra-cafe 062 602 2948, W @no1bonaterracafe

ABOVE: Anthony Asher-Wood OPPOSITE : Danielle Jorre. Sunday,” says Carolyn. “We also offer vet care and onsite medical care, and run sterilisation clinics as well as vaccination drives whenever possible.” Valley Dogs now has six full-time volunteers and six part-time, not including the kids from the community who assist as well. Carolyn, who works full-time for an abrasives company, says she couldn’t do it without her supportive husband Mark. “He drives for one of the routes with our longest standing volunteer and absolute angel Salome Meyer Lourens – who also runs The Silver Paws Senior Sanctuary, which takes in elderly dogs that have nowhere else to go.” The team prepares all week for Sunday. “We make prepacks of dog, cat and chicken food which gets handed out to the more needy homes to see them through the »

community*

week. We also sort out our first aid boxes and refill supplies,” says Carolyn. “Saturday is spent cooking 20kgs rice, 100kgs bone meal and MDM, and 50 litres gravy. We use 320kgs dry dog food for the onsite feeding, and another 120kgs for the prepacks. Over and above this we use between 30 and 40kgs cat food as well as tins and sachets, and 20kgs chicken food.” Each route feeds around 300 to 500 dogs, and is made up of various stops ranging from a couple of dogs to 50 plus. “Mostly it’s very uplifting, but we do have sad days when we deal with sick or injured animals. We become extremely attached to the animals and their owners,” says Carolyn. The dog owners know the routine, and often walk for hours to get to a feeding point in order for

LEFT: Carolyn Pierrot.

Thank You, Sponsors:

• The Do More Foundation •The Gabrielle Faickney Trust • Network For Animals •Bluff Meat Pinetown • Don’s Deliveries • Hillview Farm •Ulrika Sundstrom •Gap Mouldings • Hillcrest Vets • Animal Lodge Pet Hotel

their dogs to get a good weekly meal. “We also assist the community with food parcels, when possible, and have helped a number of people with health issues,” says Carolyn. The team also receive donations of clothing, shoes and toys which they distribute where it’s most needed, and have built shelters for the animals, supplied kennels, and assisted with housing for a destitute family. Danielle, who runs a small wood shavings business, does school talks for Valley Dogs, handles meetings with donors, and organises and runs fundraising events. “I am so proud of our team and how much everyone contributes to our charity project,” she says. “Valley Dogs has grown so much more than we could have ever imagined.” Carolyn says Valley Dogs has made her

far more appreciative of what she has, and realises that the animals in the valley are very much loved by their owners. “It’s so rewarding seeing the proud looks on the kids’ faces when we compliment them on the condition of their animals, and seeing dogs that were in a bad way respond to the nutrition and medical care. There is nothing like being greeted on a Sunday by hundreds of dogs that are so happy to see you.” Ant adds that Valley Dogs has made him a better person. “Seeing the dogs and kids waiting and running after the van to greet us is the best thing in world,” he says. “I hope Valley Dogs can inspire others to do the same in their communities. Never give and expect in return, but give from your heart.”

FOR MORE INFO 083 330 0210; kznvalleydogs@gmail.com; W KZN Valley Dogs

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S E R A B E L L A – M E A N I N G A B E AU T I F U L E V E N I N G I N I TA L I A N – I S A N E W D E V E LO P M E N T I N T H E H E A RT O F I Z I N GA I N U M H L A N GA C O N S I ST I N G O F M O D E R N C O N T E M P O R A RYI N S P I R E D V I L L AS T H AT E M B R AC E A S E N S E O F S PAC E A N D E L EGA N C E A N D F E AT U R E STAT E - O F -T H E -A RT F I N I S H ES W I T H I N I TS AU T H E N T I C BA L I N ES E A EST H E T I C S .

No transfer duty payable Stunning architecturally designed modern contemporary / balinese inspired homes embracing a sense of space and elegance situated in a prime position in the prestigious Izinga open suburb, Umhlanga making it one of the most sought after addresses in the area. Gated with an electrified perimeter fence and surveillance cameras with a 24 hour security guard manning the access control from the guardhouse providing residents with absolute peace of mind. The guardhouse area will also incorporate domestic help washrooms, change rooms and toilets. Only a few kilometres away from the famous Gateway Theatre of Shopping complex, as well as in close proximity to some of KwaZulu Natal’s most prestigious schools and hospitals. A short drive to the Umhlanga coastline beaches.

Location, security and privacy translates to peace, happiness and a coveted lifestyle that only Sera Bella can provide. Peace of mind: Situated within a double gated security precinct, in addition to patrolled security and tactical presence, Sera Bella also has an electrified perimeter fence with surveillance cameras and a 24-hour security guard manning the access control from the guardhouse.

Location is key: Sera Bella is ideally located to Gateway Theatre of Shopping, hospitals, prestigious private schools, King Shaka International Airport, restaurants and beaches.

Privacy is paramount: Ranging from two- and three-storey villas to three-bedroom apartments, each villa’s garden is totally private and fenced off, offering total seclusion. Within the complex there is also a communal pool and braai area.

TO FIND OUT MORE Website: www.serabella.co.za / Email: sales@serabella.co.za Mobile number: +27 83 786 8999 / Address: P.O. Box 22115, Glenashley, Durban 4022

community*

hile many communities and areas in KwaZulu-Natal are still feeling the after-effects of the July riots and looting that swept the region, there is one area that claims what was born out of this traumatic and potentially divisive time has been an inspiration and blessing. The newly formed Outer West Business & Community Initiative (OWBCI) has the intention of servicing and uniting the entire community and businesses of the Outer West region of KZN – including Embo, Kwanyuswa, Molweni, Hillcrest, Assagay, Kloof and Shongweni. Cotswold Downs’ CEO, Shantelle Walters, says the formation and continued success of the OWBCI since the dark days of the riots epitomises the resolve of the human spirit and captures the true essence of “ubuntu”. “What started out with residents from Cotswold Downs joining forces to protect our estate and surrounding areas, soon turned into a bigger and more powerful union of business and community leaders with a common goal of protecting the livelihoods in the greater Outer West area – not only during the riots but going forward,” says Shantelle. “It has been inspiring to see how so many have given selflessly of their time and resources to empower and support the SAPS and Community Policing Forum (CPF) for the good of the greater community.” Some of the initiatives undertaken to date include the repair of 14 previously unroadworthy SAPS vehicles – with ongoing maintenance being offered to the local SAPS free of charge by Halfway Ford Waterfall, CMH Nissan Highway, Tyremart, Alpine VW and SMG Toyota Hillcrest. Two vehicles were sponsored for 12 months by SMG Toyota and Alpine Renault, as well as office space from Richdens Centre in Hillcrest for the CPF. Twenty tonnes of

fresh and dried food were distributed to the broader community, feeding close to 4 000 people over a two-week period. And R5 000 was sponsored by the Taxi Association to Ubizo (a local NPC) to go towards books at the first library to be established in the valley. According to the founding member and mastermind behind the formation of the OWBCI, Nick Nzama, who originally hails from a chicken farm in Assagay, and his mother, who currently resides in the valley of Kwanyuswa, the far-reaching impact of forming the OWBCI goes beyond the donation of time, money and resources

Stronger

TOGETHER LOCALS SUPPORTING LOCALS SEES GAME-CHANGING INITIATIVE BORN OUT OF KZN RIOTS

ABOVE & TOP: Beneficiaries receive food parcels during the July riots – thanks to the newly formed Outer West Business & Community Initiative.

that the community has benefitted from to date. The OWBCI strives for social cohesion and to provide a platform where everyone’s voice is heard. Registered as a not-for-profit company (NPC), the initiative has already taken some remarkable strides towards positive change within our community and is gaining momentum. “Our role in the engagement between SAPS, Metro Police, community safety companies, CPF, neighbourhood watches, the Taxi Association, and other community and business representatives, is serving to create a new security support structure. Efforts are underway to engage Outer West businesses so that they may better understand the existing barriers to economic development within the surrounding communities,

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allowing them to identify opportunities to facilitate and support. We believe we are #StrongerTogetherOuterWest, and encourage you to stay connected through our online platforms to see how you can assist through time, money, expertise or resources to rebuild KZN while creating a thriving community. Ultimately we want to stop making walls higher and rather make tables bigger,” explains Nick. Tsepo Mkomo, assistant director of the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, believes the OWBCI will “assist the CPF to carry out their mandate effectively and efficiently. It will also bridge the gap between the community and SAPS, as the police are unable to solve crime without support”. CPF chairlady, Tracey Lynch, also

thanks the OWBCI: “We have now been given the facilities and amenities to go ahead and do better for our community.” “We are so proud of this game-changing movement and believe it could become a blueprint for other areas and communities in KZN, and even nationally. We continue to actively work together and re-imagine our community eco-systems, and are committed to continue supporting the efforts and vision of the OWBCI because we want to see a united South Africa that draws communities together for the stabilisation and betterment of all,” concludes Shantelle.

FOR MORE INFO info@owbci.co.za; www.owbci.co.za; W Outer West

advertorial*

wners, Karen and Adrian Short, have been voted top caterers locally and internationally for 28 consecutive years. “I think of food all day,” laughs Karen, who trained in London as a chef, and together with husband Adrian, began their legendary catering company, By Word Of Mouth. A passion for food is the understatement of the century. Four years later, and Frozen For You was an entirely natural offshoot. “This range is not frozen meals,” stresses Karen. “It’s fresh meals, frozen. No stabilisers. We’ve imported the very finest freezing technology so we can prepare wonderful home-cooked meals with ingredients you would never normally be able to freeze – the basil leaves on our melanzane remain fresh basil leaves when defrosted. Our roast potatoes are just that – crisp and golden roast potatoes.” She explains, “Our meals are frozen in seconds. We describe our specialised process as ‘Nature’s pause button’ – we literally lock in the flavour instantly.” The Shorts chose all their – and their clients – favourite home-cooked recipes, and made them accessible to everyone, all the time … in their freezers. Fresh meals, only frozen. With 14 shops countrywide, KwaZuluNatal rejoiced when Frozen For You arrived in Flanders Mall in Mount Edgecombe. Now they’re in Hilton, too. But no matter where you are between Sheffield and Hillcrest, Frozen For You delivers same day if you order online before midday*. Seven days a week. Can’t face cooking tonight? Let them know online by 12, and you can tick off dinner. From meals for one person, right

My fabulous

FREEZER

BON APPETIT! RESTAURANT QUALITY FOOD AT HOME, SAME DAY DELIVERY*, IS NOW IN KWAZULU-NATAL – FROZEN FOR YOU HAS ARRIVED, AND THEY’RE DEFINITELY NOT FROZEN MEALS up to catering for a crowd or special occasion, Frozen For You works. Baby showers, dinner parties, harvest table, school lunches, delectable dinner for one … or, massively popular, a gift voucher to make life easy for someone else or as a treat. As Karen says, “The best gift is a consumable one … then the teacher or friend can choose whatever they’d like to give themselves a break.” And the bonus? You, the giver, haven’t had to wrap a single gift. For Karen, wholesome ingredients are an important part of their great meals. “Our wide range also caters for dairy free, low fat, low carb, gluten free and more. Some meals are endorsed by Vitality Health, and their 100-year-old culture Sourdough Bread by the Diabetic Society. There really is something for everyone. Vegan?

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No problem.” And the Shorts constantly work towards environmentally sound practices, by reusing boxes and doing whatever it takes to uphold their ecofriendly ethos. Generosity, simplicity, quality and convenience – the Frozen For You mantra. For Karen, particularly as we head for the holidays, “Don’t cook in your cozzie! Rather enjoy quality time with family and friends. Take a Frozen For You meal, pop it into the oven from frozen (or defrost if you prefer), and the meal’s sorted. That’s a real holiday, whether you’re in the bush or at home around the pool!” To order, just nip on to the Frozen For You website, click a few buttons, and you’re done. End-of-term gifts, holiday meals to take away with you, contributions to friend’s luncheons, festive gifts … all sorted. Not frozen meals, but restaurant quality meals … frozen. FOR MORE INFO www.frozenforyou.co.za

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parenting*

Separation

ANXIETY

IF YOU HAVE A CHILD WITH SEPARATION ANXIETY, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. I KNOW FROM EXPERIENCE HOW DIFFICULT THIS CAN BE, WRITES SARAH MACKINTOSH

y son has always found it difficult to separate from me, especially when in playschool and preschool. There were days when I would leave the school in tears, feeling terrible after the teacher had to pry my child off me and told me to go and don’t look back! It’s just awful. As a parent, you feel so guilty and your heart aches for your child. According to clinical psychologist Lauren Snailham, it’s normal and expected for children to experience anxiety, crying, tantrums or clinginess in reaction to separation during early childhood. These are healthy reactions and a normal stage of development. Separation anxiety is a condition in which a child becomes excessively anxious when separated from parents. The anxiety experienced is more than just clinginess. Common expressions of separation anxiety can include an inability to think about anything but the present fear of separation, crying, nightmares, palpitations, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, physical complaints (such as a sore tummy or headache), and sometimes depression. These experiences of emotional and behavioural distress can develop into a serious emotional problem called Separation Anxiety Disorder, which includes symptoms such as clinging to parents, extreme and severe crying, refusal to do things that require separation, constant worry and fear about separation, physical

Anxiety Disorder overlap, which can make it confusing for parents and cause an uncertainty of whether to try support the child through ‘this phase’ or to seek professional help. The main differences, however, are the intensity of your child’s fears and whether these fears are interfering with their daily life and functioning,” explains Lauren. “Separation anxiety occurs because a child feels unsafe. This may have been triggered by a change in the environment (new teacher, new school, new house, new sibling), stress (loss of a loved one including a pet, parental conflict, separation or divorce), having an insecure attachment to a parent, or having an overprotective parent – as children and parents can feed into one another’s anxieties,” says Lauren.

It’s normal and expected for children to experience anxiety, crying, tantrums or clinginess in reaction to separation during early childhood - these are healthy reactions

illness (such as headaches or vomiting), violent, emotional temper tantrums, reluctance to go to sleep, poor school performance, and failure to interact in a healthy manner with other children. “Many of the symptoms of normal separation anxiety and Separation

Tips to deal with separation anxiety “Prevention is always better than cure, so I always encourage empowering our children and building resilience. Helping them to learn about their feelings, learning to name them, recognise the bodily sensations their feelings cause, and how to cope with these feelings in healthy ways,” says Lauren. Other tips include: • Address any root causes you may be aware of (such as, bullying or not having friends). • If there’s been a change in routine, try get back to the normal routine as soon as possible.

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• Discuss the difficulties with the school and identify a safe person and place for your child to seek out if necessary. • Provide a consistent pattern for the day (routine creates predictability and children LOVE predictability). • Set limits (let your child know that you understand their feelings, affirm their feelings but that they are still expected to follow rules, do chores, etc. These boundaries help contain and create a sense of security for your child). • Offer choices (anxious children often like having control so give options such as where at school they’d like to be dropped off, what toy they’d like to take along in the car for the drive, what song they’d like to sing – age-appropriate choices and control).

Lauren Snailham

is a clinical psychologist in Kloof with a passion for helping children. She has many resources on her website www.childtherapytoolbox.co.za that can be used for empowering children to cope with difficult feelings and to encourage families to work together, as well as books that address anxiety.

• Name their feeling, validate the feeling, set limits and offer coping skills like talking to someone, asking for a hug, playing with pets, breathing in and out slowly, humming gently to themselves, drawing, or holding a small fidget toy or object which can help with grounding in flighty moments. • Help your child build confidence by focusing on strengths. • Encourage your child to move out of their comfort zone, each time they do they will see what they have achieved and what they are capable of. “If symptoms persist and your child’s anxiety is escalating to the extent that is causing them great distress and interfering with their daily functioning then it’s advisable that you seek professional help,” advises Lauren.

“PLAY IS THE HIGHEST FORM OF RESEARCH” - ALBERT EINSTEIN

RUN BY AN EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST

Every day is open day at Bright Buttons! 15 months - Grade R

Enquire now for 2022/2023 with Kloof Pre-Primary.

2022 Admissions are Now Open 031 710 1813

www.waterfallpreprimary.co.za

Tours are available every Wednesday at 8am. Book yours today! 031 764 1577 admin@kloofpp.org.za

community*

esidential housing estates Plantations and Greenvale Village, along with other Hillcrest residents, land owners and businesses, are joining forces in an ongoing community project. Their aim is to rid the area of alien trees and bush that has become the home of many a vagrant; clear and clean up overgrown vegetation that obscures road signs; improve the safety of the roads by repainting the faded road markings; and applying to eThekwini Electricity for street light infrastructure down Shongweni Road – all the way through to the M13. This is not only about improving safety, but also formulating an ongoing maintenance plan to create a sustainable result. The project is centred around interchange 31, on and off the M13 both

Working

TOGETHER east and west bound, the second of three interchanges that provide access to the Hillcrest area. Due to the size of the job at hand, the project has been divided into phases. Phase 1 began at the beginning of September and is almost complete thanks to Plantations and Wynne Landscapes and their dedicated and motivated teams – who fought day-to-day commitments, the heat, dense alien brush, thorns and alien trees to clear as much as possible. Unsightly graffiti, broken and illegible road signs, litter and fly-tipping (55 bags of litter disposed of via DSW and 20 bags of glass bottles that were delivered to the Hillcrest Recycling Centre) was tackled. As a result of the action taking place in Phase 1, it has been encouraging and motivating to have unsolicited offers

Thank you to these amazing residents and businesses, who even in these tough times have seen the value of supporting this community project: ¥ Mr H Coetzee ¥ Oxford Centre ¥ Build It – Hillcrest and Botha’s Hill ¥ Infinite Property Management ¥ DNKA ¥Corcoran ¥ Supa Mamma Community Clean Up Bags ¥ Daisy Business Solutions ¥ Edoserve of support from passers-by and from businesses like Don’s Tree Fellers – who donated the services of staff and resources to fell and poison 10 of the large alien trees that were dominating the area. A local land owner, Colleen Whitton of Kayak Craft, who had already started her

A NEW COMMUNITY PROJECT IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE own initiative with her farm staff on ramp 31 to Pietermaritzburg – to mitigate the litter, vagrants and prostitutes frequenting the location – has now joined forces with the community project. Every little act of support will help achieve the goal of rehabilitation and ongoing maintenance of this interchange to the benefit of all Hillcrest residents. Phase 2 started in October, thanks to Greenvale Village – who has committed to supporting the initiative and adopted “Environment and Eco Friendliness” as their motto for 2022. Local businesses have sponsored funds to kickstart the next phase – namely the repainting of the road markings, to further improve the safety of motorists. The community project team has also created a petition for street light infrastructure, which

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will accompany the eThekwini application to extend the lights from Greenvale Village for a further 1,5kms, all the way down to the interchange 31 and over the Shongweni Bridge – mitigating darkness and hopefully the littering and vagrants. Many hands make light work, and local businesses and residents are encouraged to join the community project and “pick a spot” in need of maintenance and cleaning/ clearing. Let’s work together to bring Hillcrest back to what it was before the maintenance stopped.

ABOVE: Plantations Maintenance Supervisor, Sbu Mdlalose, painting road markings.

LEFT: Bottles pulled out of one section in just three hours. FAR LEFT: Chris Wynne and Tsitsi Fokoseni from Wynne Landscapes.

FOR MORE INFO If you would like to contribute in terms of donations of or for materials, or even your time, please email Alison Kitching on estatemanager@plantationsestate.co.za

It’s not just an Estate, it’s a lifestyle... www.plantationsestate.co.za | 031 765 8968

advertorial*

irstly, we would like to thank our many buyers, sellers and investors locally, countrywide and around the world. Seeff Hillcrest appreciate you all, and are so humbled that you have chosen us as market leaders in residential property in the Upper Highway area. With all that has happened this year, we are pleased to report that the property market in the Upper Highway area is very much alive – with massive activity fuelled by the lowest interest rate in 50 years; for the first time the purchase of a home is often

BEST

team in the business CELEBRATIONS AND WORDS OF GRATITUDE FROM SEEFF HILLCREST’S DIRECTOR GREGG WILSON cheaper than renting one. We are ecstatic about our company’s service and performance in residential sales and rentals throughout 2020 and 2021 in the Upper Highway

area, and commend our team on two fabulously successful years – our best years yet. Seeff Hillcrest, Kloof and Waterfall have been leading the way in bespoke

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gated estate residential developments recently with the grand successes of two developments, namely 40 on Assagay and Thirteen West, Hillcrest – both being completely sold out. Why Seeff? We provide frank and savvy advice. Your home will be sold in the least possible time with the least amount of hassle to you. If you have any thought in your mind about selling your home in the Upper Highway area, ensure that you contact Seeff Hillcrest for the best service and the best results. After all, why wouldn’t you want to see your home featured and marketed in the best

possible way? Because that’s what we do at Seeff Hillcrest – we have the largest marketing budget in the Upper Highway area, and the most experienced team in the business. Your property could even be featured on “Saturdays with Seeff” on East Coast Radio’s Top 40 with Danny Guselli – make sure you sign a Sole Mandate, and we will make it happen. We offer free valuations and expert advice from decades of experience in the industry. Seeff achieve on average 96% of the asking price of your property when appointed on a Sole Mandate basis. Visit hillcrest.seeff.com to view our incredible listings.

Our website is user-friendly, and in addition to requesting a valuation and listing your property with us you can also confidentially, in your own private time, prequalify yourself for a bond online – which does not leave a footprint. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our weekly virtual magazine, the modern version of the old Homeguide Magazine. Everyone at Seeff Hillcrest, Kloof and Waterfall wish all our clients – past, present and future – all the very best over the festive season, and we so look forward to meeting new clients in 2022. Here’s to a terrific 2022!

Want to know what your property is worth in 2022? Visit upperhighway.seeff.com and click on “Request a Valuation” Gregg Wilson, DIRECTOR BComm (Rhodes), BSc Honours in Property (UCT) MPRE (Master Practitioner in Real Estate) 083 321 8500; 031 765 5326; greggwilson@seeff.com

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festive*

Fairylight Wonderland Bromeliads must be the easiest of plants to use. Thriving on neglect, they can grow with the minimum of soil and only need a mist or two occasionally. Tying them on to a log with a stocking, filling gaps with sphagnum moss, and adding fairy lights for impact, you can become a star mini-landscape-creator in no time. And they are quite happy with low light conditions. Display Your Fruit And Eat It Overindulgence during the holidays can cause many feelings of regret when the new year rolls in. What better way to add fruit to your and the kids’ diet during this time, than by

Festive

TABLE

“THERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO ADD CHRISTMAS CHEER TO A TABLE THAN BY CREATING IT YOURSELF,” SAYS GARDEN GURU TANYA VISSER. “AFTER ALL, IT IS THE SEASON FOR GIVING. WITH JUST A FEW ESSENTIALS, LET LOOSE YOUR ARTISTIC FLAIR AND GET THE WHOLE FAMILY INVOLVED WITH THESE DELIGHTFUL TABLE DECORATIONS”

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making fun fruit arrangements. All you need is a small bucket, floral foam, and skewers. Place the floral foam in the bucket, making sure that it fits snuggly. Cover with water. Push the sharp end of the skewer into the fruit and the other end into floral foam. By adding flowers from the garden, gaps can be filled in between the fruit. Get really creative, and add mini tomatoes and leafy edible greens to your arrangement. Tanya Visser is the editor of The Gardener magazine and well known to gardeners in South Africa.

FOR MORE INFO For more great gardening tips and fun DIYs, visit www.tanyavisser.com or www.thegardener.co.za

advertorial*

Giving 2022 the boost it

NEEDS

WITH JUST PURE HEALTH’S JUICE CONCENTRATES

hris Barry and Ash Walker, a brother and sister team, are taking the next steps to lift the Just Pure Health brand and offering. The business focus is on health and wellness, and their main

ABOVE: Brother and sister

team Chris Barry and Ash Walker.

product line – concentrates – has aligned well with both the business’s aims and goals for the market, and the reception of health benefits in this evergrowing industry. Ash has been pushing the brand and growth over the past few years, and recently Chris shifted his focus on the client base and forecasted growth for the business overall. “As a family we have seen the amazing benefits of the products, and the countless cases of people seeking out more natural and sustainable remedies or supplements to their everyday lives, health routines and diets,” says Chris. “The demand for allnatural health alternatives is growing the portfolio steadily, and we are looking at various collaborative efforts across South Africa to bring more healthy and sustainable options to market. As we all shift to a more green, healthy and conscious way of existence, our hope is to be a

catalyst in offering benefits for the forward shift in dietry and suppliment lifestyle that the modern era presents.” The concentrates are 100% natural with no preservatives, no colourants, and no added sugar – and come in Beetroot, Sour (Tart) Cherry and Pomegranate. Sourced overseas, they are delivered nationally to health stores, gyms, fitness centres, medicinal manufacturers, sports clubs, oncologists, toxicologists, professional athletes and even micro breweries – to name a few. The concentrates are versatile and have many benefits for daily health and improved

We started using the Just Pure Health products regularly several months before leaving for the Tokyo Olympics. We added tart cherry juice to our daily intake, our nutritionist recommended it as a natural aid for recovery. We also used the beetroot juice before and after training as a natural aid for energy maintenance, so that we could push through our six hour swim sessions. ” – Clarissa Johnston & Laura Strungnell

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performance. They are vegan friendly and can be added to a glass of water or a breakfast option – such as yogurt, muesli or smoothie. Salad dressings and sauces can also be made with the various options, and dilution is recommended for best results. The brand is aligned with partnerships that highlight the benefits and the progression of the industry: •Dominique D’Oliveira - Athlete, Coach & Personal Trainer •Tom Liebenberg - Personal Trainer & Functional Fitness Obstacle Course Racer •Reset Collective – Mel Van Straaten & Gabrielle Akal: Wellness, Fitness and Health Coaches •Clarissa Johnston & Laura Strungnell - SA Olympic Swimmers, Athletes & Fitness Coaches The juice concentrates have numerous health benefits. “Our products aid in dementia, muscle recovery, insomnia, natural endurance, and in control of diabetes. They are high in antioxidants, a natural anti-inflamatory and have anticancer properties.,” explains Chris. * It is recommended that you consult a medical professional when adding any supplements to your diet, natural or otherwise. FOR MORE INFO info@justpurehealth.co.za; www.justpurehealth.co.za; W Just Pure Health; @just_pure_health

AG-RIDGEAD-15NOV21-PRINT.pdf

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15/11/2021

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food*

proud KZN girl, born and raised in Durban along with two brothers, Jordin says: “I am very blessed to have such a supportive family who has always been rooting for me along my journey, long before my business was even an idea.” After matriculating from Epworth, she moved on to Jackie Cameron School of Food and Wine in Hilton – completing the 18-month diploma in both hot kitchen and pastry. “I had the opportunity of spending six months in The Greenhouse kitchen in Cape Town, which at the time was a Top 5 Fine Dining Restaurant in South Africa,” explains Jordin. “And this led me to starting my chocolate journey.” After spending a few years working in Cape Town and learning the art of chocolate, Jordin moved back home to start something of her own – and in 2020 Cocoa Africa was born. “It’s ironic, because I’ve always been interested in nutrition and thought this would be a line of work I would go into. But clearly that was not meant to happen, and I couldn’t be happier.” Jordin’s passion for chocolate came from finding a way of taking something most people love, and improving it to make it look and taste like something they have never had before. “I love the artistic side I can add to my chocolates, all of them are

Chocolate

BLISS

JORDIN SHELLY CHATS TO KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN ABOUT HER PASSION FOR CHOCOLATE AND MAKING HER DREAMS COME TRUE

hand painted using different styles and techniques,” she says. “Innovation makes me tick; creating something new or improving something from boring to having a wow factor gives me so much joy.” Her first sale was one of her proudest moments. “I really felt like ‘Wow, this is mine’, this is something I have dreamt of, created and now it’s tangible,” she says. “I have loved watching this business grow over the past year. It has

challenged me, excited me, and stretched me. I’ve met amazing people through Cocoa Africa, and it has been really encouraging to see people get excited about it too.” Cocoa Africa offers a selection of nine different flavoured bon-bons and three different slabs, each with their own unique design. “The chocolate I use is a very highquality chocolate imported from Belgium, along with local and imported speciality flavours and ingredients. For me it’s about achieving and delivering the highest quality product; an experience that is memorable.” Jackie Cameron is one of Jordin’s biggest inspirations. “She’s a go-getter in business, she knows what she wants and takes the risk to achieve it. She taught me a very important life lesson: ‘If you are going to do something, do it properly’. “Cocoa Africa is not just me, it is also my supporters, the people closest to me, the ones who encourage, help when I can’t do it alone, and support my decisions. I have a vision of growth for Cocoa Africa – and with this comes creating job opportunities, teaching and uplifting,” says Jordin, who besides chocolate enjoys being outdoors, exploring South Africa, finding new foodie spots and travelling. “Travelling has exposed me to different cultures and cuisines which in turn have influenced my love for food and flavours.”

ABOVE: Jordin Shelly, owner

of Cocoa Africa.

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FOR MORE INFO www.cocoaafrica.com

It’s fer’ment to be. Let’s get back to basics. Rawbiotics = raw, liquid probiotics in their most natural state. When nature gives you probiotics, don’t let the natural enzymes, lactic acid and live bacteria escape. We don’t freeze-dry, meaning all the good stuff stays put.

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ging Director, The ana Bo nd s, M e G on

INSE T: To

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WHAT WE DO ¥ We prepare all contracts and paperwork required to issue a bond, and provide you with fairly firm estimates in terms of affordability and the loan amounts you would be eligible for. ¥ We are contracted to nine banks, ensuring you get the best possible deal on your home loan. ¥ We are convenient to you, which takes the frustration of standing in queues for hours on end at times that only suit the bank. ¥ We get you better rates – bond originators have contacts at all the banks and negotiate better interest rates on your behalf. We will travel between institutions to get you the best rates and terms on offer. ¥ Our turnaround times are faster than if you apply on your own, as we have service level agreements in place with our key

ni J

o you have found your dream home and have jumped through some hoops with the paperwork, dealing with various staff members at the banks, and have found out that your application has been rejected due to some algorithm on the banking system. If the banks’ computer systems say you don’t meet their criteria – then that’s that, you walk away empty handed. This is why bond originators exist! There was a massive gap in the market, and bond originators took the opportunity to change the way people secure their home loan finance. A bond originator can take the pain out of raising the finance for a bond and have a keen understanding of what the banks are looking for – ensuring the banks get the right information in the proper manner. Bond originators have a very good success rate at turning rejections into approved bonds, and what’s more a bond originator’s services are 100% free of charge.

can enjoy all the benefits of using a bond originator and it will not cost you a cent. The banks pay us a commission for referring business to them.

HOW WE DO IT  Get in touch with Toni on 082 964 4003.  We will email you application forms and a

list of the documents we require.  We submit your application to all the

The Bond

GIRL WHY USE A BOND ORIGINATOR INSTEAD OF APPLYING DIRECTLY AT THE BANKS?

banks simultaneously, and will have feedback for you within three to four business days.  Once the application has been approved by the bank, a physical valuation will be done on the property you are looking to purchase.  We then issue you with all the banks’ quotations detailing instalment amounts, interest rates, and terms and conditions.  You choose the best quote for you, and we instruct attorneys to transfer the property into your name. FOR MORE INFO www.thebondgirl.co.za

In association with Mortgage Max players. The banks also know we submit multiple applications for our clients – ensuring they are fast and efficient with their feedback to us. ¥ Our services are free of charge – you

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*advertorial

ibernation’s over and it’s time to get out. Wander around the balcony, potter in the garden, stand in the middle of the courtyard, gaze at the patio and pool areas… Spot something missing or getting drab? Be it a patio, or a deck, or a tiled courtyard, we’re picking up that every exterior space is being transformed into an enhanced functioning area, rather than just being a braai spot or a weekend party place for families. Italtile walks you through the latest outdoor trends:  The Outdoor Kitchen. This space could be as small as a satellite kitchen with an electric or gas grill and a pizza oven. Or it could be The Full Monty, with storage areas, a wine chiller, sinks, gas hob, eye level grill and a refrigerator.  The Edible Garden. With 5 stars for sustainability, the edible garden is a futureforward idea. Quite apart from looking good, it is fun to plan and rewarding to harvest. It’s also an incredible way to introduce children to spend more time outdoors and learn first-hand how the food they eat arrives on the table.  The Outdoor Shower. Whether you want a dedicated spot to sluice off after a swim, or a spa-worthy outdoor oasis that rivals your indoor bathroom sanctuary, there are so many inspirational looks. We’ve seen awkward alleyways repurposed into romantic, boho-chic, under-

Get

OUT! the-stars shower spaces, with pretty patchwork underfoot. Add a few string lights and water-loving pot plants to complete the look.  Spiritual Spaces. We’re seeing the rise of garden sanctuaries for yoga. We’re also loving the emergence of the garden labyrinth – a circular path which is walked in meditation, till you get to

FRESH INSPIRATION FOR FRESH AIR LIVING FROM ITALTILE

the “centre” of yourself. How beautiful is that?  Outdoor Technology. We’re high-fiving the weatherproof tech that’s enabling all our indoor conveniences to go outside, including outdoor music systems and outdoor TV. Pretty smart.  The Swimming Pond. Around the world, swimming

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pools are going back to nature as we city slickers learn better ways to live sustainably. Not everyone’s ready to go full wetland yet, but if you’re looking to dip an eco-chic toe into a more sustainable pool, take a look at our enormous range of Pool Mosaics. No matter what colour you choose, it’ll be green.  The Blissed Out Balcony. Think apartment terraces and balconies, complete with mini hanging gardens and herb patches, outdoor lights, lanterns, a mirror to open the space and cute-as-a-button bistro furniture. Even a tiny WFH desk situation. The benefits are many – privacy, height, amazing vistas across the burbs, a sense of space, and all the natural light and vitamin D.  Indoor-Outdoor Flow. This is a trend we’ve been behind for quite some time: choosing the same style of tile to flow from the interior to the outdoor area. Getting out is an adventure, and we’re here to ensure you enjoy every minute of the journey, with no fear or remorse. Chat to us about your choices online, or speak to our design-certified sales consultants instore. FOR MORE INFO ITALTILE uMhlanga; 7 Tetford Crescent, uMhlanga Ridge; 031 566 5069; Open 7 days a week. T&Cs Apply

trending*

It's all fun and

GAMES

WHETHER YOU’RE RELAXING ON A TROPICAL ISLAND OR STAYING LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, WE HAVE SOME HILARIOUSLY FUNNY AND MINDCHALLENGING BOARD GAMES TO KEEP THE WHOLE FAMILY ENTERTAINED

Cards Against Humanity: A party game for horrible people Cards Against Humanity is an adult party game in which players complete fill-inthe-blank statements using words or phrases typically deemed offensive, risqué or politically incorrect printed on playing cards. Its title refers

to the phrase “crimes against humanity”, reflecting its politically incorrect content. The game is simple. Each round, one player asks a question from a black card, and everyone else answers with their funniest white card. The objective of the game is to turn awkward personalities and dull social skills into hours of fun and laughter. And for the whole family, the newly released Cards Against Humanity: Family Edition is a

brand-new game for kids and adults to play together. There is even a glow in the dark version. From R514; www.takealot.com.

I Should Have Known That Put down Google, don’t ask Siri, it’s time to play I Should Have Known That! In no time at all this perfect dinner party game is bound to have all guests saying, “It’s on the tip of my tongue!” An addictively entertaining trivia game with over 400 questions about things we should know. Unlike the format of traditional trivia games, you don’t receive points for answering questions correctly, instead, points are subtracted for every incorrect answer! The fast-paced game is guaranteed to give non-stop brain freezes, loads of laughs and blushing answers – how embarrassing! Suitable for ages from 14 upwards. R440; www.takealot.com.

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What Do You Meme? The creators of the popular For The Girls, now bring you the latest Tik Tok favourite game of the season, What Do You Meme? An adult party game for meme-lovers. The rules are simple. Compete to create the funniest meme by pairing Caption cards with the Photo card in play. A rotating judge picks the best combination each round. Suitable for ages from 17 upwards. R419; www.takealot.com.

The Comrades Marathon Centenary Monopoly

Happy Little Dinosaurs Through the pandemic we’ve all felt like dinosaurs trying to avoid the falling meteors – well Happy Little Dinosaurs is exactly that. The goal of the game is to try and dodge all of life’s little disasters, whether it be a pit of hot lava or being ghosted by your favourite dino date. Ultimately, the dino who survives it all, is the winner! During each round, you’ll flip a Disaster card featuring a Natural, Predatory, or Emotional disaster. Each player will play a Point card in the hope of collecting points and avoiding the disaster. You will work to avoid all of life’s little disasters and laugh as they happen to your friends. Point cards feature weapons, trinkets, and good luck charms you use to collect points and avoid disasters. Will you successfully dodge the disasters or get eaten by

WIN!

The Comrades Marathon Centenary Monopoly board game has just been launched by South African events company Sportsvendo – and is the ideal Christmas gift! Or perhaps you just want to keep it to yourself, to enjoy with family and friends over the festive holiday period? For more info, please visit www.marathonmonopoly.com

Which piece was your favourite in Monopoly – the dog, top hat or maybe the battleship? Monopoly has become a part of an international popular culture, and has been licensed locally in more than 103 countries and printed in more than 37 languages. There are many popular Monopoly boards with specific themes. Recently a limited number of Comrades Marathon Centenary Monopoly boards were launched to celebrate the centenary year of the Comrades. Get ready to join the Legends of The Comrades Marathon, on Polly Shorts, or in Kings Park Stadium. This exciting collaboration is sure to awaken some fond memories and is the perfect

gift for all Monopoly board game enthusiasts, Comrades Marathon enthusiasts and anyone wanting to have this collector’s item added to their collection. R780; marathonmonopoly.com.

Ridley's Games Room, Party Compendium Gather your friends and family, young and old alike for a series of games that will challenge all your skill and luck with this Party Compendium from Games Room. With four games, there’s something for everyone! Settle in for a fun games night with Guess What?, Classic Charades, Sing It Back Music Quiz and Name Game Quiz. Packaged in a geometric print box, it will look smart on the games shelf once you’re finished playing! R308; www.iwantoneofthose.com.

We are giving away a Comrades Marathon Centenary Monopoly to one lucky winner, please visit our website www. famouspublishing.co.za to enter

a prehistoric whale? Only the cards can decide. Suitable for ages from eight upwards. R409; www.takealot.com.

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motoring*

car is just a car, right? It needs to take you from A to B. At least that’s what I’ve always thought … until I got my hands on the magnificent Volvo XC40 – which is when my whole perspective on “just a car” changed. I don’t quite know how I am going to survive without this beauty in my life, it has certainly made a bold impression on me. For starters, it’s just so luxurious. It’s incredibly comfortable and basically almost drives itself – which is perfect for a mom on the go, who’s constantly multitasking and making the most of every minute in every hour of every

BOLD

impression KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN FALLS IN LOVE WITH SWEDISH LUXURY AT ITS BEST day. Secondly, the XC40’s safety features are right up there among the very best – Volvo has been a world-leader in safety technology for almost 100 years. Lastly, it’s just sooo smooth. It tackles any road with upmost professionalism,

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competence and expertise. I was especially impressed by the lane keeping aid – it gently steered me back when I was about to cross a lane marking. The blind spot information system with cross traffic alert is also hugely helpful – alerting

me to drivers in my blind spot, as well as any vehicles approaching from the side. My 10-year-old daughter and I set off for a South Coast adventure on a Friday morning, and we had to drop off our dogs – a large greyhound and a small sausage – with family on the way down. Plenty of space for all of us in this nippy car – a bonus for busy families who want to take everything but the kitchen sink for a weekend away. And the large boot can be accessed by a hands-free power-operated tailgate, what a pleasure! What’s a road trip without snacks, supplies and great tunes? The premium, rich sound by the Harman/Kardon

system tackled a preteen’s screeching pop tunes and the driver’s thundering rock tunes equally well. We stayed at Honeywood Lodge in Port Shepstone on Friday night, and I noticed other guests eyeing out the bursting blue metallic beauty parked outside. It’s not only a smooth ride, but boasts good looks too. Large alloy wheels and a wide body give the XC40 a strong presence on the road; this is truly an SUV ready for anything. Speaking of, the winding road from Port Shepstone into Oribi Gorge can be challenging for most, but not for the XC40. A whole lot of potholes also got in the way – but the few that I failed to

State-of-theart Aftersales Department Ensure that you are able to drive with the confidence you need by booking your Volvo service with Volvo Cars Hillcrest. The service department is stocked with genuine parts as well as a team of trained technicians who are ready to service, repair and provide maintenance for your car. Call 031 716 5000 or email alvin@fmgh.co.za to book your service.

miss, I didn’t even feel. After enjoying the gorge we headed further down the coast, and left the N2 to enjoy a slow drive on the old main road – moseying through Shelly Beach, Margate and Ramsgate before ending up in Southbroom at the delightful Barefoot B&B. Driving out to dinner on Saturday night we got horribly lost because my temperamental map app confused two roads with the same name. Thank goodness for the XC40’s auto light feature; the headlights switch automatically from daytime running lights to low beams in weak daylight or dark conditions. One less thing to worry about when driving at night! Sunday morning met us with drizzle, so we didn’t get to make the most of beach time and famous Blue Flag beaches. But we made up for it by indulging at the Waffle House and visiting Butterfly Valley, before heading back to Hillcrest. By then it was raining cats and dogs, so I also got to test the car in these challenging conditions – and not surprisingly, it proved to be perfectly stable on wet roads. All in all, the Volvo XC40 simply just makes life easier. And that’s something we can all appreciate in today’s otherwise complicated, albeit delightful, life.

FOR MORE INFO 39 Old Main Road, Saint Helier; 031 716 5000; www.volvocarshillcrest.co.za

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travel*

ituated less than 1km from the beach and a five-minute drive from Port Shepstone, this beautiful lodge offers self-catering as well as dinner, bed and breakfast accommodation in six fully equipped four-sleeper chalets. The acclaimed onsite restaurant, The Cellar, serves delectable gourmet cuisine from an ever-changing menu and offers a unique, intimate dining experience; chef Dylan Smith has over 20 years’ experience and will tantalise your taste buds with his contemporary fusion-style of cooking. And last but not least, Honeywood’s beautiful Forest Spa will suit all your pampering needs. Dylan had just finished his chef studies when he met Kate in 2003. “We lived and worked in Durban for five years, then went to France to work on the boats. We came back in 2009, got married and the rest is all history,” says Kate. Honeywood is a family-run business between Dylan’s mom Sharon, Dylan and Kate. “Sharon is our accommodation, grounds and finance person, Dylan runs the restaurant and kitchen, and I run the spa and do all the marketing. We all lend a hand in each

Call of the

FOREST

HONEYWOOD FOREST LODGE HAS IT ALL, WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN

Honeywood offers a place to unwind, enjoy incredible food and simply have your stress melted away department, helping each other out to make sure we have a smooth-running business.” In 2007 ground was broken for the accommodation, and Honeywood opened for their first guests in 2009. “Dylan and

I relocated to the South Coast after a stint overseas and opened The Cellar in December 2009. We scraped together tables and chairs from aunties and uncles, and went to auctions and secondhand shops to decorate and furnish the restaurant; that’s where it gets its eclectic feel from,” says Kate – who developed and opened the spa in 2015. “Honeywood offers a place to unwind, enjoy incredible food and simply have your stress melted away,” says Kate. “The forest is such a healing place. I love showing our

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guests down to the spa or down to a chalet, and seeing or hearing their first reaction to our magnificent forest. I love sharing this wonderful piece of heaven with our guests and seeing how they instantly relax and unwind, it makes all the behind-the-scenes hard work worth it.” Balancing work and family life is tricky, as they all live on the property and are all so hands on. “We made a decision to dedicate Sundays and Mondays to family and home life, so the restaurant and spa are closed on those days. It’s hard to turn away business, but at the end of the day family is way more important and it’s time that you can never get back.” Plans to take Honeywood even further by adding a Forest Hydro area for the spa are underway. “It will have an outdoor massage area, steam room and shower. We have also started on the Lapa Suite, which is going to be our luxury honeymoon suite for that complete escape from it all. It overlooks the koi pond and will be the perfect romantic getaway. We hope to become a sought-after destination for our incredible food, relaxing spa and stunning accommodation,” says Kate.

FOR MORE INFO www.honeywoodsa.co.za

EST 1970

031-208 7131 • 082 635 0165 55 Buro Crescent upholstery@benze.co.za • www.benze.co.za Mayville

last word*

e all have our own rituals to help us into a new year. For a long time, my New Year’s Eve ritual involved a vacuum cleaner. By 8pm at the latest, I’d haul out the Dyson and vacuum my study, making soothing patterns on the red pile of the carpet. Why do I have a red carpet in the study? Does it energise me and help me write? No, it’s because it was there when I bought the house, and every year since my list of New Year resolutions has included the line item: “Change the carpet in my study”, usually just after “Eat less” and “Exercise more”. It felt soothing to vacuum the carpet, to suck up the dust and detritus and sloughed DNA of the previous year. It felt as though as I was giving myself the best chance of a good year. Then I would go downstairs and make a Spanish omelette, and a Pisco Sour for my partner, which she only drinks once a year. Just before midnight we would open the back door then the front door and listen to the schmucks down the road celebrating 30 seconds too early. We would allow the old year to leave via the back and the new year to arrive in the front, then we would close the doors and stroll around our neighbourhood, then go home to sleep and wake up the next

A moment in TIME CELEBRATE THE DAWNING OF 2022 – CELEBRATE THE MOMENT, SAYS DARREL BRISTOW-BOVEY WITH A TEAR IN HIS EYE

morning without a hangover and feeling smug about our choices. The very thought of changing the ritual would cause me to break out in cold sweat and indignation. How dare you invite me to your house on New Year’s Eve?! Do you want to ruin my year?! Why do you hate me so?! But then 2020 happened, and 2021 as well, and I realised that superstitions are fine but they don’t protect you from anything. Rituals should be made from joy, not fear. In September this year I was at a lunch party. One of the guests was bewailing the

fact that because of lockdown, she hadn’t had a countdown to New Year with her extended family. Every year, in the seconds before midnight, their ritual was to hold hands and count backwards from 10 – and then cheer and kiss at midnight, and wish each other a good year ahead. Without it, she said she felt her year was hollow, as though it hadn’t yet properly started. We understood, but what could be done about it? By now it was 2.18pm on September 12. Then someone suggested a countdown to 2.19pm. It started off politely and sedately – a group of people humouring

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a friend – but then it reached zero and everyone shouted “Happy New Year” and as we turned and hugged the people on either side of us, it suddenly felt as rich and intense and emotional as a real New Year, but the best kind of New Year, a New Year of our own deciding, something starting because we wanted it to start, a moment being celebrated because moments are worth celebrating, because really moments are all we have, and the more of them we can have the better. So we all started laughing and everyone stood and hugged everyone else and we felt happy and we wanted each other to be happy and I beamed and shed a quiet weird tear. I hope we all have a good year. Wherever we all are on New Year’s Eve or at 2.19pm on September 12, I hope we’re happy and making new rituals, even if they only last for just that moment.

r en n

Happy Festive Season

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| 12-16 Old Main Road, Hillcrest | Tel: 031 765 4037 | info@lilliesquarter.co.za | www.lilliesquarter.co.za

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12-16 Old Main Road, Hillcrest | Tel: 031 765 4037

www.lilliesquarter.co.za

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Mitsubishi Pinetown Ridge-17Nov21.pdf 1 2021/11/17 14:53:12

CMY

The Crest 104

Articles inside

CALL OF THE FOREST

TRENDING

ITALTILE

THE BOND GIRL

CHOCOLATE BLISS

JUST PURE HEALTH

FESTIVE TABLE

SEPARATION ANXIETY

STRONGER TOGETHER

WORKING TOGETHER

FROZEN FOR YOU

POINT-S HILLCREST

MEET THE VALLEY DOGS

LOCAL GOODNESS

WATERFALL COLLEGE

LIFE'S A PICNIC

SIYANQOBA WORLDWIDE EXPRESS

ACTION COACH

WRAP IT UP

MJ ACCOUNTANTS

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

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