Downsize to a Richer, Happier Life
What do you want to do with your life? Would you like to travel, downsize, have more money and more free time? Do you ever feel like your stuff holds you back, but the thought of decluttering just seems too hard? If so, you’re not alone.
This is the first of a series of articles dedicated to helping you to downsize, declutter and rightsize your life, brought to you by Ryman Healthcare in conjunction with decluttering expert Peter Walsh.
When helping people to declutter, Peter never starts by focusing on the stuff itself. Every item in your home has a story, so the first step is to think about what that story is.
Maybe you’re thinking about downsizing as you approach retirement but still have all the artwork and toys and books that belonged to your now adult children, and don’t know what to do with them. Perhaps letting go of that old sports equipment means letting go of a vision you had of yourself that no longer fits who you are. Maybe you’re holding onto heirlooms you have no use for because you want to keep the memory of the person alive.
No matter what your situation is, it’s easier to declutter and downsize if you start by identifying the feelings that underlie your attachment to your stuff before tackling the stuff itself.
Click to read more.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.5% 1st December
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16.8% A week before Christmas
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32.5% Whenever you wish
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Farmers Santa Parade
Every year, the Farmers Santa Parade marks the beginning of the festive season in Aotearoa, sprinkling magic, song, and dance down Auckland's Queen Street. Next month, the parade will return for its 91st year with an unmissable line-up of family favourites, including children's television phenomenon Bluey.
Spectators can expect to see the parade hero, Santa, alongside a suite of new characters and floats, including one constructed entirely of LEGO®.
Kiwi fans of Bluey will see their favourite blue pup in person as she makes a trip to Auckland to star on her very own float in the event. Bluey and Bingo will also make a special appearance at Santa's Party at the close of the parade.
After representing Aotearoa at the 2024 Olympics, gold medallist Hamish Kerr will be opening the parade as this year's official grand marshal and leading the iconic procession of festive floats including one inspired by K-pop, in the shape of a giant pink guitar and a nostalgic Kiwiana caravan float that encapsulates summer in Aotearoa.
Local community groups, such as Central Auckland Flip N Fly Circus School and South Auckland Cook Island Community Dance School, will perform throughout the parade, bringing their impressive skills to the street.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure the perfect viewing spot for this cherished holiday tradition.
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Postponement Date: Sunday 1st December 2024
Pre-Parade Entertainment: 12pm – 1pm
Parade: 1 – 2.30pm
Santa’s Party: 2.30pm – 5pm
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