CAROLS, DECORATIONS AND GIFT BUYING

I knew I was unlikely to see this person (let’s call her Mrs Grinch) again before the big, festive day, so thought it was an appropriate, seasonal thing to say. But… my timing wasn’t right, apparently – it was just too early for that. Admittedly it was November 30. But now, it’s December and no-one’s going to kill the joy! The decorations are up in stores, Christmas carols are being sung, advent calendar doors are being opened and chocolate consumed, and – on my home front – the festooned Christmas tree is already up and adding its annual magic. And, of course, my Christmas shopping is well under way.

Admittedly this blogging assignment is a major help – I just keep stumbling on gorgeous items to talk about and some of these will go to very appreciative recipients come Christmas time. Things I have found this time include the not so expensive items (great for stocking stuffers, Kris Kindle and teachers’ gifts, for example) middle-of-the range priced gifts, and top price items. I’m including the latter as every now and then my husband and I will decide on buying a big price item around this time of the year and deciding that’s our Christmas present to each other. Last year was a case in point, and I have some beautiful outdoor furniture to show for it.

The bigger items may make a nice family gift too. Whatever your taste and price range there’s likely to be something to suit and please at Sylvia Park Lifestyle. So what goodies did I find this time? My big item numbers include a swanky fridge and exercise equipment from Torpedo 7 (by the way, a gym membership from Jetts gym may be a great idea). A Swiss ball, a tapas board, a candle (always a candle with me), a woven basket, a bean bag, cheese knives, and a beer caddy (made of flax) were amongst my finds. For gag gifts – or for those with everything – I found a bucket-full of bucket list suggestions, plus a hard-case book called “The Modern Wife”… and yes, there’s a husband version too. Happy shopping and enjoy the decorations and Christmas carols while you are at it. (And, beware The Grinch!)

1.Tabletop bucket lists, $17.49, from NOOD |2.Long timber tapas board, $49.99, from EziBuy |3. Juusto cheese knives four-piece, $19.95, from Freedom |4.Samsung ice and water, French door fridge freezer, $2,999, from Kitchen Things |5. Arrow basket, from $69.95 to $79.95, from Freedom Furniture |6. Geometric turquoise photo frame (two sizes), from $13,50, from The Importer |7. Casa bean bag (various colours), $119.00. from NOOD |8. Delux soy candle, wild berries, $19.50, from The Importer |9.Swiss Ball, 65cm, $21.49, from Torpedo 7 |10. The Modern Wife (or husband) book, $14.99, from The Design Store |11.Prorunner 310R treadmill, $799, from Torpedo 7 |12.Flax 6 pack holder, $29.99, from The Design Store.

Note: Prices mentioned, and availability of products featured are subject to change. If you love the look, we recommend you head in store to find out more.