Where has 2014 gone to? It seems like yesterday I put the Christmas tree and decorations away and before long I’ll be bringing them back out again. I have promised to treat myself to some new tree decorations this year and I’ve been looking at a few shops which have begun to get their Christmas stock in.
Boardman’s at The Glen has a delightful display right at the entrance to their store, so you can’t miss it! From princess to reindeer toys, baubles and tree lights, candles and ceramic treat jars, there’s something for your home to give it that Christmassy feeling and gifts for all ages.
In CNA you’ll find the most beautiful decorations, Game too.
Woolworths is getting more Christmas stock in day by day. I was looking at a wooden dolls house advent calendar, quite pricey but it will last forever and could be handed down to the next generation, I really mean it!
What I absolutely loved was a pink wooden apartment which has three floors with furniture painted or moulded on to its sides. So cute! You could buy a few tiny dolls and imagine the fun your child or grandchild will have. Every little girl must have a dolls house or the new version – an apartment! There are also treats for boys too, including a wooden santa sleigh advent calendar.
Don’t stress, over the next few weeks I’ll be pressie hunting for all, whether your budget is big or small.
Focus on Local
Trotting around the South I came upon another little gem, Sharondale Garden Centre, situated on the border of Brackendowns and Brackenhurst.
What a well set out garden centre which has a wonderful selection of bonsai, Japanese Maple trees and a variety of shrubs in stock as well as plants, herbs, trees and fruit trees, garden pots, pavers, pebbles and lots more.
It was a beautiful hot day as I strolled around and I was enjoying being out in the fresh air when I came upon Wendy’s Coffee Shop. Time for a rest I thought! The café is rustic and delightful with tables scattered around, so you can choose from a more secluded table or one which is more prominent.
Serving breakfasts all day this will be popular with many, also toasted sandwiches, open sandwiches, and the main seller, a 100 per cent beef burger made from scratch! Or choose a light meal or a salad. Children are also catered for with some delicious meals and snacks.
I spoke to Savannah Munks, who is presently running the coffee shop and she said, “Our lemon meringue pie and apple crumble are favourites with customers but we also have other delectable cakes and tarts.”
As an added extra, children can have fun in the play area and visit the animal farm with chickens and a pig and you can browse around the beautiful gardens and pop in at the small gift section.
The garden centre is owned by Craig and Peter Munks and has been in the family since 1976. As I was leaving I met the three family Scottie dogs which have the run of the centre, delighting all who see them!
Open seven days a week from 08:00 to 16:30. Phone 011 867 8017.
That’s it for this week. Shop till you drop. Phone me 011 724 7000 or email: juliem@caxton.co.za or follow me on @baglady_ south
Julie
Follow me @baglady_ south
