Ten reasons to love winter

Every year I look forward to winter, but when it arrives I hate it! Getting up in the dark is the worst. But I do know winter can also be a time of revitalization, and I just need to remind myself why I love it. So here are reasons to love winter…

1. Cuddling!

2. Lighting a fire (Love our fireplace!).

3. Walks in the park, enjoying the autumn leaves and the fresh air.

4. Walks on the beach, with the waves crashing.

5. Baking!

6. Soups, stews and lovely warm meals.

7. Wearing boots and scarves!

8. Lots of bubble baths.

9. Listening to the rain…

10. Staying indoors, spending quality time with those I love <3

Images from We Heart It

To market....

I've been going through a market phase lately, trying to make the most of the last few summer weekends when you want to be outdoors... plus I just love markets! We went to the one at Century City (pretty good) and the Tokai market (highly recommended - it's lovely!) so I was thrilled to see that the new City Bowl Market on Hope was opening on Saturday 16 April, which was just down the road from me!

It definitely lived up to expectations. The hall has the character and atmosphere that every market needs, and the selection of food, crafts and fresh produce were perfect. We walked around and were spoilt for choice for lunch. I landed up going for an incredible butternut, gorgonzola and lentil lasagne that was simply delicious!

We ate upstairs on a balcony where a bar was set up, overlooking the market below. We then walked around and I bought this gorgeous wooden heart necklace, sweet cactus and fresh fruit and avocados (grapes, avos, pomegranates and pretty much everything else were only R5!)

If I had any points for improvement they would be firstly the seating - although I loved the look of the tables and hay bales, the hay was difficult to sit on, especially as I was wearing a dress! Also, more outdoor area would be great. Lastly, as someone who tries to eat sugar-free/wheat-free, it would be great to have some sugar-free baked goods - but that's just my personal preference!

All in all, I'm so excited about this market. It was busy without being overcrowded, is so convenient and had a great selection of market goods to allow me to enjoy a market for many more weekends to come! And with winter arriving soon, the indoor aspect is certainly a plus. I predict it becoming hugely popular with Capetonians in the months ahead!

Unfortunately, I only took a few photos with my BlackBerry - they certainly don't do the market justice! 

The City Bowl Market on Hope is open every Saturday from 9am - 2pm at 14 Hope Street, Gardens.
Visit www.citybowlmarket.co.za
 

The inside story

As the editor of a property magazine, something I am passionate about conveying to our readers is the importance of investing in the interior of your property. 

Whether it your home or an investment that you rent out, investing in its interior can dramatically increase the value of your property. 

Interior designers say that a property with finishes, renovation or interior design returns at least 20% more in rentals that one that doesn't have these finishes.

One affordable way to add to the interior of your property is by investing in blinds and shutters. These will make your home or investment property look smart, chic and complete, adding a European, modern feel to any room.

 Taylor Window Blinds offers a range of options for blinds and shutters, and I recommend them as a source for beautiful and affordable blinds that are great quality.  

I think the wooden Venetian blinds are particularly lovely - they add a warmth to your home, which we definitely need in these cold winter months. In summer they will add to the glow of the room, are lighter than heavy curtains, and will protect your furnishings from the sun. 

So if you are looking to invest in the interior of your property, I highly recommend getting blinds or shutters as a first step towards adding value, warmth and quality to your home.  

Visit www.taylorblinds.co.za for more on how to get the best in blinds! 

Winter love

Cape Town is in the middle of winter at the moment, and although it hasn't been a really bad one, I've really been resenting it this year. I guess early mornings, running and winter don't really combine together very well.

But in the spirit of being positive, here are some things I am loving about winter:

That despite it being cold, we don't have anything close to snow

Some winter days have been sparkling and sunny

The World Cup has definitely brightened everyone's winter, and made it go faster

I can paint my nails in gorgeous dark colours

Boots are beautiful

The fresh air is great to run in

I have the most amazing boyfriend in the world to cuddle with and who keeps me warm :)

xxx

image from http://weheartit.com