Tilly the Good Life

Text and photography by Tilly Smith Dix

It never fails to amaze me how resilient people can be. We have all, at some time in our lives, at times too often, been through tough times, when we feel we simply could not deal with another setback.

However, after some quiet time, a good sleep, deep breathing, perhaps a good cry (if you’re a woman or a man in touch with his gentle side), putting our shoulders back and looking life straight in the eye, we pick ourselves up and start taking baby steps towards fixing the problem by identifying the cause.

Some of us blog to get the pain out of our system. Others, like my amazing friend Carrie, might write a book. When an unexpected emotional tsunami tossed her into darkness and left her adrift in a sea of utter, lonely desolation, she decided to start a social media group.

This group would consist of women who have experienced trials and tribulations, and may still be experiencing such emotional tidal waves. These are the women who would support each other, from around the planet, and share wisdom, virtual hugs, and advice but never judgement. Those who are too precious to care about others’ woes, toss themselves out of the fold. A great pal once said, “it’s always convenient when the garbage takes itself out.” Amen to that, honey!

So, Carrie would post insightful stories, funny stories, and often silly stories, just to make us giggle like teens. Laughter is good for us. However, she was not only sharing information to inspire others, she was also taking on board what we were saying, how we were feeling, our stories told, when we were witty, or at our wit’s end.

She was writing a book to help people heal. That book has now been published and I’ll be reviewing it this very weekend as anything written by what I believe to be one of the best writers I’ve ever worked with, deserves my undivided attention. Watch this space.

To the manners born

Something I treasure, is etiquette in business. Don’t even get me started on table manners.

Arrogance and entitlement are major irritations and rudeness in business, unless the service provider is doing a bad job or no job at all, is simply unacceptable. When such disregard, however, is reflected by the service provider to a paying client, such unprofessionalism must be taken to task. Is this a new trend? Treat the client like an inconvenience? Never! Not on my watch.

Working with a client years ago who launched a school of business and social etiquette, after their studies with the best in Washington and The Hague, was a simple reminder of what I was taught in business economics: prepare, dress up, show up, show respect, show interest, engage, deliver what you promise.

Going to be in a long meeting which will involve hours around a boardroom table spanning over the lunch hour? Take snacks for the table. Imagine the meeting hosts ordering lunch and ignoring their guests? Simple etiquette.

Sadly, we are not always remembered for our good behaviour, but it is guaranteed we will be remembered for bad behaviour.

After some peculiar events in recent weeks, which tested my patience and faith in a few members of the human race, I decided to go to bed with Gerald Jampolsky. Oh, get over it, I mean one of the books written by that wise man, Teach Only Love. I even found the notes I made when reading it the first-time years ago.

Whilst I agree with many of his theories, sometimes you’ve just got to realise there are people in this world who will change the narrative to suit their narcissistic souls. Learning to spot the difference between ignorance and toxic manipulation takes practice. Walking away instead of wasting time trying to care about people who have no regard for us, is the best new skill I’ve acquired in recent years.

Creating space for new light to enter, lovely new people to add interesting, caring new stitches to our tapestry of life, to me, means to evolve. Knowing whom to love and sending those who don’t treat us right off with love, reduces stress and detoxifies our precious space.

Oh, and if someone has the grace to buy us a delicious meal, the least we could do is thank them. No flowers, no big gestures, just a simple act of graciousness, even a text message. Amen to that too, sweeties. Simple, right?

Food, glorious food

Spoilt for choice when it comes to savouring scrumptious food and wine here on the magical Mornington Peninsula, my most recent culinary wanderings included a delicious dinner after a sunset shoot at Martha’s Table, overlooking Martha Cove Marina.

A glorious setting, which reminded me of my roots on an estuary, where sailing was part of life. Of course, the boats were never as grand as the ones in this cove.

The food portions were small. No, I’m not a big eater and I detest enormous portions, but this was rather skimpy and expensive. The Lobster Bisque was delicious, served in a Mediterranean style, with carnaroli rice. The service and vistas of the marina are worth the trip.

Pictured above, clockwise from top left: autumn shades at Polperro Winery; Barn & Co Restaurant interior; lobster bisque at Martha’s Table; Martha Cove Marina; tour queen of the Peninsula, Rika Keyser at Martha Cove; boats at Martha Cove Marina; moi pretending to be rich and famous at Martha Cove Marina; entrance to Barn & Co Restaurant; and the autumn vineyards at Barn & Co in Balnarring.

Autumn has arrived and log fires, tasty hot food, and fine wine in a scenic vineyard beckon. Sunday lunch at Barn & Co at Balnarring on the Peninsula’s wine route did not disappoint.

The tapas choices are scrumptious. Opting for the Lamb Meatballs with smoked tzatziki and pomegranate, Sliders with house brioche, beef brisket, pickle and slaw, and Crispy Artichoke Hearts with citrus aioli, proved ample to share.

To finish, I could not resist the Sticky Date Pudding, with butterscotch, honeycomb and vanilla bean ice cream. Another triumph. Washed down with local sparkling brut Baillieu from Merricks, I was ready for a stroll in the vineyard before a leisurely drive to Polperro Winery in Red Hill for a delicious glass of pre-sunset rosé. Highly recommended. I’ll be back.

Sofa spud

Not only is Lady Gaga an icon in the music industry, to me, she is also a superb actress and kind human being. That moment, at the Oscar night now forever etched in my memory, when a star, so high on his own importance, thought he could get away with abusive behaviour on a world stage, when Gaga told a frail Liza Minelli, “don’t worry, I’ve got you,” proved how women are there to support each other.

Yes, I loved Gaga in A Star is Born – I’ve seen every version of this movie ever made. However, my favourite remains Barbra Streisand and Chris Kristofferson’s film of the same title.

I’m surprised Gaga did not cop and Oscar for her performance in House of Gucci. She was superb and immensely convincing in her role. As for Adam Driver, this man was born to act. Pure entertainment of a successful family that lost the plot.

Sadly, it brought back a memory of a much-treasured Gucci belt a good friend bought for me during a visit to New York in the late 70s, when I would never have been able to afford such a luxury item. The timeless belt would still be stylish today. Sadly, it disappeared through an act of affirmative shopping – by someone I knew back then. I did not wish to send them off with love, I promise you, hie.

Shirley MacLaine, iconic sister of Warren Beatty, is another Hollywood treasure. Eccentric, talented and a most entertaining author, I saw her one-woman show in the mid-Nineties at Sun City in South Africa.

She was sensational! To have an audience in the palm of your hand, still kick as high as a Vegas showgirl, embrace the world, and make people laugh without uttering an expletive, is a class act. A dying trade.

As for her role as the grumpy Louisa, Ouiser, in the all-star cast of Steel Magnolias, which put a young Julia Roberts firmly on her path to stardom, she still makes me giggle when I watch reruns. Ouiser’s famous quip, “I’m not crazy, I’ve just been in a bad mood for 40 years,” said in a deeply Southern accent, still cracks me up.

As usual, I digress as I love a detailed story. A friend at lunch recently mocked me about my love of telling lengthy stories. I must admit, I was a tad disappointed as I listen to others’ stories, often repetitive and long. I love stories. Women supporting women, right?

So, back to fascinating Shirley. Tired of watching war, natural disasters and upsetting news on the box at night? Pop over to SBS if you live in Aussie and watch The Last Word. A good story and brilliantly played by Ms MacLaine and Amanda Seyfried, who certainly holds her own when performing with legendary stars such as MacLaine, Meryl Streep (Mamma Mia), and Vanessa Redgrave (Letters to Juliet), to name but a few!

I lose patience with endless series. Give me a fascinating binge for a weekend or a few nights on TV, and I’m there. Snacks, glass of bubbles, cup of chai or rooibos tea (yes, we get the rooibos from South Africa in Aussie too), and I’m happy as a clam.

Anatomy of a Scandal is such a binge. Sienna Miller is riveting as the devoted wife. She is certainly growing older beautifully. The story is typical of many who had everything handed to them on a silver platter since childhood. Gosh, I’ve known people like that and whilst not all of them expect the world to serve them, in this instance, the stiff upper lip, sweep it under the carpet, and just enjoy this ripe plum called success as a privileged brat, reminded me of similar epic scandals.

Infused with true British flavour, despite the always brilliant involvement of US writer/producers David E. Kelley and Melissa James Gibson, this courtroom drama will have you begging for more. As for the styling, especially Sienna Miller’s wardrobe, the entire production proved pure class.

An author, who’s books many of us seldom admitted to devouring in private, the hugely successful now late Jackie Collins, had an incredible life, not always ideal but she certainly had true grit and was no quitter. I highly recommend her story, Lady Boss. Imagine having Joan Collins as your sister? Not easy, yet Jackie held her own, and some. Worth watching.

Styling into autumn

This is one of my favourite seasons as layering is always fun. The warm colours of autumn, playing with textures and planning outfits to complement a day starting out cold, then warming up slightly, only for the temperature to drop rapidly when the sun starts setting earlier, is a time to also clean out the closet.

Keep the treasures, ditch the silly buy of years ago. I see it a bit like relationships too. If we no longer agree with people’s life choices, we have the choice to walk away. With our wardrobes, it becomes a labour of love as what we no longer like, could be gifted to an opshop, which serves as an act of kindness. Such opportunity shops are run for charitable organisations here in Aussie, and it could help someone less fortunate than us. As for letting go of people who no longer treat us right? That is also an act of love – for ourselves.

Pictured above, autumn colours that transcend fashion but remain in style. I tend to mix my old with the new. Loving the flash of cobalt blue, especially the luxe wool cardigan in the top row, centre, from Country Road. The coated jeans, in black and in plum, add a touch of contemporary to the classic straight-style pants at Witchery Fashion. The check cape and top are from the newly launched House of Lucas, made in Australia. The pink pointed-toe flats are from Vivaia – use my discount code ’tilly18′ – your feet will be grateful! I love a versatile poncho and Witchery Fashion does not disappoint with the midnight navy striped one featured above. The blazers are my own vintage picks from Zara – ageless. A classic coat, big or with a snug fit, never date, especially in camel. I’ve spotted some great styles at Trenery this season.

This is also a way to promote slow fashion by supporting sustainable, recycled fashion. Every tiny effort we make to be kinder to our planet will help if we all get on that caring train.

Speaking of which, I’ve written about @Vivaia shoes before and I’m still thrilled wearing their gorgeous flats, made from recycled plastic bottles. Stylish, yoga-mat comfort and designs to suit any occasion, I’m a fan! Washable and recyclable, what’s not to like?

My favourite colours and styles this season? Flared or straight pants, midi skirts and knitted dresses, classic coats and ageless jackets. Cobalt blue, camel, dove grey, winter white, and fuchsia pink spin my colder season colour palette. As for black and white, they will never die.

Cheers to living the good life, folks, we have one life. Our  stories matter…

Text and photography by Tilly Smith Dix

March has certainly been an eventful month on a grand scale. How do we deal with such devastation, floods, greed, and war during a pandemic?

It would be extremely frivolous to write this blog, focused on living our best life, without thinking of people struggling in my country after devastating floods, or a war waged on innocent women and children, based on greed in Ukraine. How, today, do world leaders allow this to happen?

The older I get, the more I value the basic principles my parents instilled in me and my siblings. Often with a wooden spoon on our bottoms if we disregarded their valuable advice. No, none of us are scarred for life. If anything, those basic rules of engagement with our fellow human beings grow stronger as we grow a tad wiser.

To start with, we need to understand our actions and hold ourselves accountable. When we know the facts about a situation, yet, we still turn a blind eye, we are guilty by association. The company we keep does say a lot about us.

In ancient Rome, March 15 was the deadline for settling debts. This is also the date on which Julius Caesar was killed. On this date the world record rainfall was recorded in 1952. For my US family and friends, this was also the date on which the Ed Sullivan Show was cancelled in 1971.

Beware the Ides of March. Good news, it’s almost over and may its end see bright new beginnings, and in the words of many a beauty queen through the ages, let’s work on World Peace.

I’m proud of this beautiful country I now call my home. More than 1,000 Ukrainians displaced by the Russian invasion, had their visas approved to arrive in Australia this month. Our community leaders want these new arrivals to have work rights and access to healthcare.

As in our private lives, we cannot be neutral about life. There is wrong and right. Know the difference and get off the fence. It starts with us.

Mint is no catnip

A word of advice to pet owners. Don’t let your pets nibble on mint. It makes them aggressive and could harm their kidneys. I discovered this when Kiki stole mint I brought in from the garden. Within the hour, she became aggressive and looked as if she was on a bad trip!

The vet, obviously prejudiced against silver Persian cats, advised I put her to sleep but prescribed some anti-depressant for cats in hope…

 

Kiki gets to live her best life. The image above right is the day after that bad mint trip.

I opted for the Felliway calming diffuser after I researched the effects of mint digested by pets. The following day she was very thirsty and hungry. Much like humans with a hangover. I offered her some greasy bacon and eggs, but she did not seem impressed.

Happy to report, no more violence from the fur ball teen, who might have been a late teen if I’d not researched the herb, which I love in my tea! I’m thrilled to report mint has not turned me into a murdering psycho. Not yet anyway. Been tempted, though.

Out and About on the Peninsula

When it comes to living the goodlife, we need to appreciate what’s on our doorstep. For too long were we deprived of going out and savouring the beauty and bounty of this splendid Mornington Peninsula – and the myriad other charms of Melbourne and surrounds.

Attending a tourism business event with my friend Trish to familiarise myself further with the hospitality destinations on offer, I was surprised by the choice of venue for such an event. One always expects a winery, being here in wine country and all.

Well, JimmyRum Distillery in Dromana certainly delivered. I don’t drink spirits and have not had rum since a splitting headache the day after, which I chose to never repeat, about 27 years ago.

Happy to report I had no day-after fog after that delicious Rum Negroni, which included oaked JimmyRum, Campari, Dolin Rouge, topped with fresh orange peel. Refreshing and I’d describe it as a sophisticated tone on the tongue. I can’t help remembering a silly commercial, many years ago, in South Africa, asking, “where did you have your first Campari?” – pronounced in a guttural Afrikaans accent. The answer, “Benoni.”

Not a great place to come from, even worse to go to. However, one of South Africa’s greatest movie star exports, Charlize Theron, hails from there, so, not all bad. And they serve Campari there. I think?

My fondest memory of Campari? Where did I have my first, Campari? Clifton Beach, Cape Town. So, this cocktail conjured up so many joyful memories for me.

Trish, cocktails and prawns at JimmyRum in Dromana.

On that happy note, I suggest you head off to JimmyRum Distillery here on the glorious Mornington Peninsula, which in many ways, reminds me of the beautiful Cape of South Africa – just without those majestic mountains but the hills are pretty and the vineyards are so scenic. The water is warmer here too.

All this waxing lyrical just after one cocktail. Imagine the stories after two… Trish, who is launching something to appeal to stylish women soon, (watch this space), agreed. We’ll be back – with the rest of the musketeers. Visit www.jimmyrum.com.au

No harm in indulging in some of the classical culture I grew up with and a visit with dear friend Rika to Beleura House & Garden in Mornington made my soul soar on a perfectly mild summer’s day.

Joe Chindamo on piano and Zoe Black on violin ‘s recital, Salut D’Amour comprised works by Frank Bridge, Edward Elgar, Erich Korngold, Josef Haydn, Astor Piazzolla, John Chindamo and Joe Chinadamo’s own Spiegelhaus, proved an encore for more. Judging by the lunchtime audience, my sentiment was shared with gusto.

Tea and delicious sandwiches, followed by scrumptious macaroons and other sweet treats, served in the restaurant overlooking the tranquil garden and pond, made for a charming afternoon in an historical villa.

Sir George Tallis was MD of JC Williamson Ltd, the world’s largest theatre company. In 1916 he purchased Beleura as a family holiday home, where celebrities from the theatre world, including Dame Nellie Melba and the Ballet Russe, often stayed as guests of the family.

Sir George’s son, composer John Tallis, spent a lifetime preserving the property after his father’s death in 1948. He left Beleura House and Garden in perpetuity to the people of Victoria for their enjoyment and education.

The romance of Beleura House and Garden, pictured above.

Originally built for successful merchant James Butchart in 1863, then regarded as Victoria’s finest residence, this state heritage-listed house museum contains intriguing artworks and furnishings. The great grand piano is a triumph.

The Palladian architecture, so reminiscent of great homes I’ve seen on Lake Como and the UK, also reminded me of a similar villa, modern but copied to depict such romantic designs, in Johannesburg, namely Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, Spa & Villas. My last visit to that luxurious beauty was superb.

Delicious champagne, great company, mouth-watering cuisine, whilst discretely spotting international celebrities wishing to be away from the madding crowd.

Beautiful music, architecture and good food will evoke happy memories. That’s the magic of soul-touching events. I highly recommend a visit to Beleura House & Garden – www.beleura.org.au

Dining on the Peninsula is always a treat and watching the sunset over the bay, somehow makes everything seem right with the world.

I’ve written about Crackerjacks in Seaford before, whilst Waves in Frankston, and The Rocks in Mornington always deliver on beach views, good service, and delicious food.

My only gripe at Crackerjacks is the lack of choices for bubbles when we produce such fine sparkling wines here in Victoria. I’ll be making some suggestions. Their garlic prawns are out of this world and my current favourite dish.

Garlic prawns, above left, at Crackerjacks, octopus salad at The Rocks, and barramundi at Waves.

So, our little gang, including Rika, originally from South Africa, Trish, Aussie, Rosaria, originally from Sicily, and Sue, another Aussie, meet for lunch and we fix the world regularly. The stories are long and detailed, with plenty enthusiastic interruptions about memories of our past travels and more stories. Fashion, good food and living our best lives make for much joy and laughter. Cheers to sincere friends and living the goodlife.

Pictured above, from top left: Sunset view from Frankston, bathers on Frankston Beach with Melbourne in the distance, Mornington view from The Rocks, Frankston Beach with Oliver’s Hill in the background.

Autumn safari in South Africa

Itis no secret, Tau Game Lodge being one of my favourite safari destinations on the planet. Having spent so much time there over the years, every visit resulted in new experiences and nuances, in understated five-star luxury.

Autumn is a special time, when the hues and landscape change to warmer colours, and hot toddies and much conviviality abound around boma fireside dinners on an authentic safari.

This is also the time when the visibility of game enthrals visitors to Tau Game Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve. Game is less inclined to seek shade after the summer heat has subsided.

Tau Game Lodge, pictured above.

Safari game drives with prolific sightings of the myriad game, including the Big Five, followed by sundowners in the bush before a delicious dinner, are memorable. Listening to the sounds of game trumpeting, roaring, tweeting, and barking their nocturnal supremacy, is pure safari bliss. This is Tau, the place of the lion.

The Tau Easter and Autumn 2022 packages from @R16,000 per couple, include:

• Accommodation for 2 nights in one of the 12 newly renovated Luxury Standard Chalets as an introductory offer
• 3 meals per day
• 2 game drives per day
• Drinks and snacks on safari drives
• Tau Spa Oasis African Foot Ritual (30 minutes) per adult: Allow your feet to be pampered by our therapists in a soothing footbath to drain away fatigue. Next your feet are cleansed and massaged with an aroma-therapeutic based scrub, followed by a true African warming foot massage.

To book this special package, please quote: TAU EASTER 2022 – go to www.taugamelodge.co.za for further details.

On the couch

I have loved the movies since those early childhood days when the folks would take me to a matinee once a month on a Saturday at the Century Cinema. Who needs therapy when we can escape into another world, vicariously living exciting lives in exotic places.

The recent Bafta Awards ceremony held at one of my favourite theatres on the planet, the Royal Albert Hall in London, was a dazzling event. After two years of on-off lockdowns, it was a treat watching the event on the box and seeing tribute paid to some of our favourite stars, in recognition of cinematic genius.

Aussie star Rebel Wilson did a good job as presenter but the star of the event, for me, was Dame Shirley Bassey, belting out Diamonds are Forever and still hitting those high notes perfectly at 85! She still looks every bit the star.

The last time I visited this great hall, I had a casual lunch of bangers and mash, whilst students of the nearby music academy performed the sweetest jazz. A delightful interlude with a dear friend from afar.

Movies I’ve enjoyed lately, include Green Book, Brief Encounter, and Deep Water.

Green Book stars Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali. This is a bit like Driving Miss Daisey but a far deeper education during a time of rampant racism in 1960s southern America. Based on the true story of pianist Don Shirley, this was a riveting story.

I adore classic movies, when the locations were believable, the stars enigmatic and the stories heartfelt. Brief Encounter, released in 1974, starring the now late Richard Burton and magnificent Sophia Loren, is a class act. We need more of these.

Deep Water, stars Ben Affleck and Ana de Armes, who is the latest Bond girl too. I believe during the filming of this movie they were romantically linked before Ben’s returning to old love Jennifer Lopez. The chemistry is tangible, and this dark thriller ticked most boxes of a gripping movie for me.

The location, set in and around New Orleans, brought back fond memories of my time spent with family in the South. Atmospheric and scenic.

Series that have entertained me and had me giggling like a silly teen, include Pieces of Her, starring the superb Toni Collett; Hotel Portofino, which I watched purely for the joy of reliving my visit to this romantic port years ago; and Cashmere Mafia. I believe these girls were in a class of their own and if you love fashion, this is a treat. Seeing sweet revenge taken on cheating partners, a further thrill. We are only human…another Aussie starring in this series, Miranda Otto, nails it with great panache, whilst Lucy Liu is always dynamite, all 5’2” of her.

Style, comfort and sustainable fashion

I love authentic fabrics in fashion as it makes the garments, and accessories, more enduring and sustainable for my slow fashion closet.

However, I recently discovered Vivaia, featured in my previous blog, which produces stunning, stylish, comfortable footwear from recycled plastic bottles.

Not only are the designs classy, but the fact that my feet are comfortable in washable, recyclable shoes, eases my conscience for having so many shoes. These sustainable beauties, offering yoga-mat comfort to my tootsies, are simply fabulous!

Use my discount code Tilly18 www.vivaiacollection.com and on Instagram on vivaia-official – have a look at the new detachable bows – a great idea to embellish any shoe.

Pictured above, adding colour to neutral linen basics. Above right, lounging in comfy striped pointed toe Vivaia flats.

Pictured above, sticking to classic styles, layers and vibrant colours to add attitude to neutral colours. Wearing my gorgeous Vivaia pointed flats, also with detachable bows, above. Remember to use my “Tilly18” discount code to shop.

With summer slowly finding her way to distant shores and autumn quietly replacing her, layers make for easy dressing to complement the varying temperatures.

Digging out my long-life garments, gathered in travels and always acquired to complement existing items in my cupboard, is a happy start to a new season.

I love the strong jewel colours and rich burgundy hues back on trend and I’m so thrilled I kept most of mine from years gone by. Being presented with always welcome fashion vouchers to feature the new season’s colours and styles of my choice on my fashion Instagram page, Sixty_is_the_new_40, I’ll be adding a new dimension and colour harmony to my often-preferred neutral shades.

Here’s to a stylish, happy month, wherever you are, darling readers. We make the world better by creating joy for ourselves. Cheers to the ripple effect of living the goodlife…it starts with us.

By Tilly Smith Dix

Whoever said you can’t teach old dogs new tricks should be taken to the pound. Stop blaming the dog. They’re usually willing to learn, it’s the humans that might be a tad slack in that department.

I recently had a conversation with a woman who informed me she was not interested in learning new things as she felt too old. Her exact words, “I’ve always had my late husband take care of this stuff. Now he’s gone, I’ll find someone else to do so.”

In the same breath, she informed me she had no life and was so lonely as many of her old friends and relatives had passed away, moved, or simply were no longer in touch. Trying to be diplomatic, I suggested she attended some community gatherings, where people share ideas and teach each other new hobbies, or help each other get more out of life through online communications.

I was shot down in flames, with her telling me she was past wishing to acquire new skills. Yet, again, a day later, she sent another lengthy message about how lonely she was.

On the same day, I communicated with friends and family around the planet. We all expressed our gratitude for the internet, as it keeps us in touch. Without it, coping with severe lockdowns in a pandemic, not to mention sometimes being housebound for various reasons, perhaps even our health, we’d have all lost the plot. Well, certainly, lost it more than we could get away with, right?

I mentioned in a previous blog how much fun I had working with an amazing crew, filming an Apia tutorial, geared mostly for people over 60. Well, the editorial and promotions are now live via the Apia site and social media platforms, and I honestly hope it will inspire more silver sisters and brothers to take the plunge and get connected.

I’d like to add on first viewing the online ads and video, I became immensely critical. I was painfully aware of why my jaw moves awkwardly at times, how one cheekbone is a bit higher than the other. All of this is easily overlooked in still photographs for my Instagram @Sixty_is_the_new_40 fashion pages.

This triggered a reminder of being viciously assaulted by a street vendor more than 20 years ago, when facial bones were fractured. The news spread across several weekend and daily newspapers at the time, as it was a frightening experience and at the time, the perpetrator, who was caught, or rather, surrendered himself to the police, so as to continue his street-vending business, got off on a heavy fine to the Court, and a six-month suspended sentence. Why?

He was the only breadwinner in his family, with his wife out of work and three daughters at school. The public prosecutor, enraged with the judge’s decision, explained to me afterwards, if this creep went to jail, his children would drop out of school and turn to crime and this was why judges were giving them second chances.

He was from Zimbabwe, living and trading in Johannesburg. Why did he assault me? I bought a fold-up table from him the previous day, which fell apart when I tried to set it up at home. All I wanted was to exchange it for another.

Not having seen myself speak on film since I was in my twenties, this was an eyeopener. I could also see the fine lines, easily overlooked in the flattering light of a still-photographic process.

Such triggers are never easy, as old emotions rise to the surface, seemingly long forgotten, and the thread of the process is back, in vivid, frightening colour. The lengthy, and many surgeries, fractured relationships, and new, long-lasting, supportive friendships, are all reminders of a life that is lived. Yes, some friendships were compromised as people did not want to be around someone who had ‘attracted such negativity,’ to quote a former friend, whom I had assisted often financially.

Why do some ignorant people believe that bad things only happen to bad people? Amazingly, this woman, so afraid my pain and temporary bad luck might rub off on her, decided I was no longer a convenient friend.

I became stronger and eternally grateful for the genuinely caring, kind people in my life and who in fact entered my life during that time in a supportive way. I was alive and life was improving every single day.

No, this is not a ploy to get sympathy or assurance that I look okay.  Those horrid memories are part of all our stories, and dwelling on them is toxic. Shake them out, learn what is of value and throw the rest back where it belongs, in the distant past. Breathe, smile, put your shoulders back and go learn some new skills: https://www.apia.com.au/apia-good-life/learning-development/digitise-skills.html – https://lion.app.box.com/s/1s99yzciqyq3wboxlts3oprorf6vmbnl/file/907339259776

We are older, NOT over! I got sassy on my Facebook post to promote the promotional link, in which I suggested we should not sit on the porch counting cars, but endeavour to get in a Porsche instead. No, not been in one of those for many years but that’s another story for another blog, chuckle…

Surf and turf

Ah, George Gershwin, long gone but the music lives on, thank you, for Porgy and Bess. As for the lyrics, DuBose Heyward was pure genius. So, cheers to Summertime, when the living is easy and we get to not only walk on a pristine, sandy beach, but to get our feet wet strolling in azure waters.

We don’t always have to do glamorous things and spend vast amounts of cash to enjoy life. The simple pleasures will always feed our soul if we let it. Just being in the moment and being grateful for being able to move around freely in my own State of Victoria is sheer bliss.

One of the beaches close to my home, which I featured in my previous blog, Carrum Beach, remains a thrill. A child of the sea, I am always intrigued by the changing tide and the colours of the bay, reflecting the moods of the sun, the moon and the scattering of clouds. Such appreciation was instilled by my parents and I am forever grateful for their teaching their children to savour these wonders by example.

I am immensely impressed about how rules are adhered to on this long stretch of beach, which flows panoramically into Seaford. There is a dog beach too and I’ve not spotted locals stray from the designated dog beach with their beloved pets.

Recently, a writer I have always admired immensely, mentioned on Facebook how people were not sticking to the rules and were walking their dogs on beaches where dogs were not allowed. One of her followers expressed their approval, indicating if one was not in favour of such actions, one could not possibly love dogs. I agreed with the writer, who retorted, this was not about dogs. It was about respecting rules and other folks on the beach.

I know of children, and even adults, who have been attacked by strangers’ dogs and therefore prefer to frequent beaches where there is no risk. I also know of people who detest stepping in dog poop whilst strolling along nature’s bounty as not all dog-owners seem vigilant about cleaning up the mess.

Yes, I walk on the dog beach as I love watching dogs frolic on the beach and in the water. However, I wear sandshoes for obvious reasons. So, to those caring souls who clean up their dogs’ mess, I say, good on you, mate.

Obviously, a walk on the beach and a dip in the sea are great appetite enhancers and after a recent stroll, I discovered a quaint café in Carrum, Settle Gretel.

The food is good, the service great, and the ambience friendly. On this occasion, one of the kindly staff members happened to be an expat too! Love when that happens. Not that one wants to form a South African colony but it’s always a thrill to hear the accent and exchange fond memories of the old country, and discuss new memories made in our new country of choice.

As my friend and I were about to depart, two disabled people, who greeted everyone and had happy smiles on their faces, were wheeled in by caregivers. It was humbling, seeing the joy in those faces. Could one ever not be grateful for being able to stroll on a beach, or anywhere, unaided.

Pictured above, walking from Seaford Beach to Carrum Beach, and eggs benedict at Settle Gretel in Carrum.

One can’t be dining out daily, so, on my way home from this particular lunch, I popped into Coles for groceries, where a tricky trolley had a mind of its own once it was loaded. Yep, humans do that too but that’s another story for another day.

This runaway trolley became an embarrassment when I was walking downhill to offload my shopping in the car!

Chivalry is not dead, yay! A man waiting for someone in the disabled parking alighted promptly, offering to help as he said that trolley was way heavier than me – he was probably right!

All was sorted in a jiffy, and he even deposited the offending four-wheeler to its designated spot as further proof of his respect for women. Grateful for men of the old school. I commended his mama for teaching him right when I thanked him for his kindness, and he acknowledged the fact she had been strict about manners!

Another catch-up with my adorable family at Seaford Beach a few days later was a bonus on a mild summer’s day. Watching the pixies build sandcastles, running in the water, and collecting shells, was sheer bliss. As for those loving hugs, could one ever get enough?

Sharing stories, eating an enormous, delicious steak sandwich, fish and chips, crispy beer-battered fries, and looking at the ocean from the deck at Crackerjacks after our beach visit, was the perfect end to another blissful day.

Sofa binges

I hugely admire Ricky Gervais’ ethos and straightforward persona. When I came across After Life, his recent series on Netflix, I got hooked.

We often underestimate comedians. Often, humour is a shield for a brilliant mind and deep musings. Honestly, I highly recommend watching this series. It’s not just for laughs. It touches on so many aspects of life, so much more relevant in our current times, you cannot help but feel this is fiction imitating reality. Can’t wait for the next season.

What to do when one gets tired of the endless senseless action, killing and car chases in more movies than I’d care to mention? Escape to the classics. The movies my parents enjoyed and my much older siblings related to.

Charade, released in 1963, with the gamine Audrey Hepburn styled in Givenchy, and the always elegantly suave Cary Grant, ticks all my movie boxes.

A great cast, including James Coburn, Walter Matthau, and George Kennedy. Add a superb musical score in the mix, a sophisticated Parisian location, and this movie remains a favourite. With most of the cast long gone, their legacy lives on.

As an admirer of Jeremy Irons’ work, he does not disappoint as British PM Chamberlain in Edge of War. What a mess and as predecessor to Winston Churchill, the man was lambasted by many for trying to pussyfoot around narcissistic, deranged, embittered Herr Hitler in 1938.

Perhaps WWII could have been avoided if the PM had listened to reason…sometimes we must get our hands dirty and fight when bullies are at large.

Elegantly directed by Christian Schwochow, based on the book Munich by Robert Harris, and a stellar cast, including George Mackay, Jannis Niewohner, and Anjli Mohindra, I highly recommend this movie.

As for Power of the Dog, despite its authentic location, a great cast, and superb cinematography, I found no pleasure in this movie. I’ll give anything directed by Jane Campion a miss going forward. I thought she was cured after the awful Top of the Lake series, but she is still focused on depressing the hell out of viewers. Yep, many will disagree, and that is fine, but I’m no longer into pretentious darkness, produced in the name of art… have a heart! Bring on some happy endings, we need more of those.

Chanel in the city

Speaking of art and heart, oh, the freedom to walk the city again, what a thrill. Gorgeous friends Trish and Rika arranged for the three musketeers to visit the Gabrielle Chanel exhibition at the NGV (National Gallery of Victoria), in Melbourne.

It was riveting. My attention span is short, even when it comes to fashion, but I savoured every moment of this superb showcase for the legacy of a woman with true style vision, which lives on long after she has gone.

She set the bar high, and too few fashion designers have lived up to her standards. Style over fashion. She lit that flame and long may it shine its bright light.

The woman who made the LBD, the little black dress, something no woman with any sense of style could be without, did so much more than that. From the structured tweed suit, the flowing gown, the flapper energy, to those loose-fitting trousers, and comfortable elegance, she did it all and with such aplomb and passion.

She started her career as a milliner before opening boutiques in the French coastal resort towns of Deauville and Biarritz, in 1912 and 1915 respectively.

She wore her own creations, inspired by simplicity, practicality, and relaxed chic. A woman ahead of her time.

I have devoured every movie and TV series about Coco Chanel and still basking in the afterglow of this magnificent presentation in my beautiful city, I discovered a movie on TV I’d not seen before, starring Shirley MacLaine and Malcolm McDowell, Coco Chanel!

This is a brilliant production of Coco’s rags-to-riches tale, charting the rise of one of the most influential fashion icons of the 20^th century. Brilliantly directed by Christian Duguay, the initial release of the film was in 2008. Two hours and 18 minutes of sheer Chanel heaven.

As for the inimitable Ms MacLaine, sister of Warren Beatty, I saw her perform her one-woman show in Sun City, South Africa in 1994, and she was dynamite. She is superbly cast as Chanel in her mature years. Barbora Bobulova is fascinating as the younger Coco. I fabulous binge on Amazon Prime.

Of course, I digress, so many stories, so little time! During our party of three’s city visit, we naturally had to eat after the Gabrielle Chanel exhibition and on a perfect summer’s day, we had bubbles, as Chanel might have done, crispy fried calamari, green salad and petite fries at the Arbory Bar & Eatery on the Yarra River.

Conveniently situated on our walk from across the Yarra River’s South Bank to Flinders Street Station, from where our train would depart to deliver us safely back to our meeting spot on the Mornington Peninsula’s Seaford Station, a great time was had by all.

During our stroll to peruse the cosmopolitan lanes and eateries, not to mention quaint Victorian shopping malls, we were saddened about some shops and restaurants now being permanently closed after the lengthy lockdowns over the last two years. However, we were heartened that many businesses have sprung back into action and are actively recruiting suitable staff to man their shops and restaurants. Hope springs eternal.

Pictured above, some of the superb aspects of the Gabrielle Chanel exhibition at the NGV in Melbourne.

Pictured above, gorgeous gals Trish and Rika, top left, scenes of beautiful Melbourne city, and me striking a pose in honour of Coco Chanel, at Clementine’s. Not my bike…

Style inspired by Chanel

Attending the Gabrielle Chanel exhibition at the NGV, I was reminded how much of our everyday style we take for granted, often forgetting where even the simplest striped T-shirt, flowing, comfortable culotte trousers, not to mention hat styles, originated from.

Long live the legacy of Chanel and I’m paying homage to styles I have treasured for years, happily ensconced in my wardrobe’s evergreen department.

Being a fashion front-runner for comfort, I think Coco Chanel would have approved of the sustainable, environmentally friendly, comfortable, stylish round-toe fluffy patterned mules by Vivaia @vivaia_official – it’s like wearing my yoga mat, just so much more stylish!

Suitable to wear from home to the shops to a casual dinner, these babies are my new best friends, sourced from recycled materials! I love the Bordeaux colour, also available in black – and half-sizes. For a discount via Instagram, use my Tilly18 code – you’re welcome.

Cheers to living our best life, appreciating the good folks in our lives, nature’s bounty, and living the good life…

By Tilly Smith Dix

I’m not going to bang on about the pandemic and the sadness so many around the planet have experienced. Done that. We’d prefer to escape reality, for a moment at least…

However, what I have been made aware of, again, is people being lonely and getting conned on the internet by bogus characters. Yes, the fraudster Charlotte Shaw is still at large, conning men on dating sites in the US, including Silver Singles, using images from my fashion Instagram posts. I’ve written about Run Charlotte Run in an earlier blog, yet, Silver Singles, aware of this scam, continues to host this fraudster. The mind boggles. This individual has defrauded several lonely mature men since last year. I am NOT on any dating sites. Anywhere.

My point, we cannot buy love. We cannot buy affection. Have we become so insecure we believe this will save us from loneliness? Gosh, I’ve even heard of many quickie weddings taking place as folks are in a hurry not to ever experience another lockdown solo.

Committing to a relationship out of desperation is not fair to ourselves or to our intended partners. Learning to love ourselves, enjoying our own company, being at peace is a true gift. I find we appreciate the company of people who truly care about us so much more once we are comfortable in our own skin.

So many people lament the one that got away…perhaps a first love, a crush at the wrong time, or simply logistics of life sending lovers into different directions.

Do you have a Mr Big, like Carrie in Sex and the City, or perhaps a Juliet who was not to be? Years ago, a wise mature woman told me we should not mourn a lost love, the one we felt we had a true connection with that transcended beyond just the physical. The one we could just be ourselves with. The one we could laugh with. The one that took no effort to get along with.

Her point was, we evolve over many lives. If we believe in reincarnation, there is less despair as during this life, the one where that Mr Big or sweet Juliet is lost, is mere training for another life, when that lost connection is a new beginning, once wisdom through our other lives is gained. I like that. Makes you realise THIS life is for living and learning and loving more – and the next one might be an even greater reward.

Most importantly, being in the moment, and showing our appreciation for those kind, loving souls around us, makes it all worth living. Now.

The joy of finally spending time with our family and nearest and dearest, could never have been greater than during these now fast disappearing holidays. Christmas, through the eyes of children, dining with our kin, celebrating New Year with hope and toasting new beginnings, these are priceless gifts.

Cheers to a brand-new year. May it bring enough of what we need.

Me and my (new) shadow

A dear friend reminded me, ten days before Christmas, it was five months since my sweet Cathycat departed this world. My friend went on to send me a link for PetRescue in Mornington, through which I found the Community Animal Shelter in Mornington. I thought about it. Slept on it and perused the site the next day.

The two kitties I liked on the website, of which I’d adopt one, depending on how we bonded on that first meeting, were adorable. However, on arrival at the shelter, I spotted a shy, frightened little fluffy girl. It was déjà vu.

Kiki takes over, even tries to take notes…

Let me explain. I get premonitions, not all the time, but often. It happens in my dreams. It has occurred since I was a child. My parents never doubted my stories of dreams as my late dad had a similar gift, or curse, as some may call it. Being of positive persuasion, I find it a gift.

Having set my heart on that little black and white female, or striped tom resembling the African wild cat prior to my visit to the shelter, whilst sleeping on the decision to adopt a cat again, I had a dream about a silver, fluffy kitten, sporting streaky fur. I awakened, thinking it odd as such a cat was not on the shelter’s website.

So, imagine my surprise when I saw this little spayed female on my arrival at the shelter, only 10 months old, and she tried to seek shelter under my arm when I picked her up. She was stressed about the other cats walking around and obviously felt threatened. She trusted me. So, Kiki is now ruling this little home not far from the sea. I think Cathy would approve.

Kiki is smart, feisty, and enthusiastically interactive. That frightened little animal I felt I had to protect has made way for a boisterously playful pet, an affectionate purring machine, and a quick learner. Some boundaries had to be established and manners taught. Fully housebroken within a few days, Kiki is winning hearts of visitors to her new domain. Might I add, said visitors are deeply chuffed by this tentative show of acceptance.

Now, if only the difficult humans we know could be trained this fast, and well… chuckle…

A huge shoutout to the care and thorough screening of potential new owners wishing to adopt a pet by the team at the Community Animal Shelter, Mornington Peninsula. The love, care, and priorities to ensure the animals would be well taken care of, impressed me enormously. Kiki even got a few samples of her favourite pet food from Hills, a food sponsor of the shelter, to get us through the first few days! See more at mornpen.vic.gov.au or call 03 5950 1838.

Cheers to love, and the devotion of a beloved adopted pet.

Speaking of love, February is around the corner…

Valentines’ safari

Getting away from it all, to a place where the living is easy, the ambience understated luxe, the food is wholesome, and the spa overlooks the verdant bush…

Add lazing around two pools, one with infinity features, both overlooking a waterhole always frequented by game, or sipping cocktails in the privacy of one’s room deck, or reclining on the main hospitality deck, all with too-close-for-comfort vistas of the waterhole. Delight in the endless parade of game. No stress, visitors are safely surrounded by security fences to keep the predators at bay, whilst those wild creatures roam free. They own the bush.

This is Tau Game Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve of South Africa, bordering Botswana. Can’t plan a trip yet? Why not get creative. Buy a Valentines safari voucher for two to visit Tau later – what a fab Valentines, or any special occasion, gift…

Get a safari fix at www.taugamelodge.co.za and be transported into the magical world of the bush at http://taugamelodge.co.za/main-lodge/live-webcam/

Beach music

Ah, walking on a clean, white beach, looking at families enjoying a picnic, children frolicking and building sandcastles, talking to gulls, embracing the smell and music of the sea. These are things that make the spirit soar.

Exploring my new neighbourhood is proving fun and simply pointing the nose of my trusty wagon in a direction I think could be a new adventure, I came across Carrum Beach, a mere 11 minute drive from my little home.

People are friendly, the beach stretches for miles, one end offering endless vistas of the Peninsula’s Seaford, Frankston, Mount Eliza and Mornington in the distance, the other offering views of the city via Bonbeach, Chelsea and Brighton. And, of course, the wide expanse of a beautiful bay, where the colour of the waters reflects the sun, the clouds, and a mutable kaleidoscope, from turquoise, to cobalt, moody grey, and sometimes midnight blue. Next time the yoga mat will accompany me too.

A customary stroll along the seashore, getting my feet wet, feeling the cool, white sand between my toes…three cheers for the sea…and it’s free.

Dining pleasure

The Mornington Peninsula offers endless choices of charming eateries and panoramically appointed wineries. Living here is never dull and after all those lengthy lockdowns, my appreciation for even the humble cheese and ham toasty on sourdough bread, is boundless! Imagine my joy when savouring the finer aspects of dining in my hood…

The Spanish Bar in Seaford is an authentic, quirky, unpretentious eatery and the food is affordable and delicious.

The stuffed bread from the breakfast menu ticked all the boxes. Broken chilli eggs, accompanied by serrano, manchego cheese, chorizo and Napoli sauce, perfecto.

Add a delicious chai latte, view of Kananook Creek and the diverse birdlife, such as crested pigeons, gulls, ducks and rainbow lorikeets, and the entertainment is endless – and not included in the bill. A further plus, the Seaford Pier is mere minutes away for a refreshing beach stroll.

The crested pigeons, eagerly observed by diners at the café through the large picture windows, were most entertaining, with one amorous male doing the fully plumed mating dance, inviting several females, dining on grass seeds, to join him. The ladies were indifferent, and one chased him off in a huff. I think he should change his technique. Perhaps focus on one gal at a time? Just saying…

A flock of wood ducks were attempting to cross the busy road and several diners, yours truly included, dashed outside to try and assist them. Happy to report, these ducks know their neighbourhood and decided to fly instead when the road seemed too busy to cross on foot. A collective sigh could be heard from the restaurant. I highly recommend a window seat.

I’ve mentioned the charm of the Mornington Peninsula wine trail before on this blog, and I’m eternally enthralled. How did I get so lucky, moving from the wine region of the beautiful Yarra Valley to this magical Peninsula, all part of greater Melbourne. Yes, my friends abroad still think we only hang in the outback, wearing corked fly-scaring hats and wrestling crocodiles. Think again! Attention must be paid.

My trusty friend Rika, another expat, who also happens to be a sterling tour guide, features in previous blogs. She has lived here for many years and put in time with the Mornington Peninsula Tourism Division. She knows stuff.

She suggested lunch at Merricks Trading Store, which proved yet another superb pitstop during a day spent traversing the many charms of the wine trail.

The rustic ambience with modern twists, great service and scrumptious food and wine got my vote. A delicious Baillieu Brut sparkling methode traditionelle, teamed with the daily salumi selection, cornichons and baguette, elgee garden crudites with tarragon oil and chopped almond, proved a perfect light lunch.

Yes, it was ample but still, we needed something sweet and the Merricks mess, rum and banana compote, dulce de leche, gingerbread and meringue to share proved a perfect sin on a sunny, summers day.

So much to savour, so little time…and thank ye gods of fabulous for Sagittarius birthdays. The three musketeers again gathered for Rika’s birthday, which proved not only a culinary sensation, but a glorious celebration of friendship, art, fine dining, fine wine, and sublime vistas of the ocean at Pt Leo Estate. On a clear day, one could see French Island.

Our entrées included carrot souffle, served with warm brioche, carrot sauce and herb salad; prawn rotolo with coconut, Pacific island bisque and curry leaves; and Tuerong Farm semolina cavatelli, globe artichoke barigoule and peas. Perfection on the plate and palate.

For mains, we opted for the Angus beef eye fillet, fine herbs and anchovy butter, accompanied by mousseline, tendon and lime puffs. A simple green salad, fresh butter lettuce with a sweet and sour drizzle, made for sheer delight.

My only criticism, whilst the cuisine is worth the price tag, the least the management should do is offer a free walk to diners to peruse the larger-than-life outdoor art overlooking the bay. We were not prepared to spend $10 to take that walk. We stuck to the restaurant exterior parameters for a brief stroll and used the zoom on our phones instead. No walk of shame.

Shaken, not stirred

Bond. James Bond. The thrill of sitting in a luxe cinema, reclining chair, the big screen, bubbles and popcorn. Yes, one should perhaps consider a martini, not stirred when watching the new Bond movie, No Time to Die but I’d not be able to drive home after a martini, so, I stick to the stuff I know, one glass only, of course!

What a movie! Pulling out all the stops, romance, action, villains of old returning, special moments and sounds from the original Bond movies, transported me back to a whimsical time of Bond. Sensationally in the now, with the title theme song performed by the stupendously talented Billie Eilish, if you love Bond, prepare for the Bond ride of your life.

Brilliantly directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, and I bet his job was made easier working with such a stellar cast. I love the quirky new Q, played by Ben Whishaw, the almost sensitive M, with Ralph Fiennes, and Miss Moneypenny portrayed by the gorgeous Naomie Harris. The bad guys are riveting, with Rami Malek, a favourite actor of mine, as Safin.

I hope Ana de Armas gets a bigger part in the next Bond movie. If she could spring into action like this after her character Paloma’s three weeks spy training, just imagine how great she’ll be after a few years in this spy game. I bet most men will fancy this pretty thing. Don’t mess with her, though.

I’m not going to drop a spoiler alert here but look into that beautiful child’s eyes. Brilliant casting.

As for Mr Craig, Daniel Craig, sad to see him depart as Bond, just when I started crushing on him.

Next time, I’ll get really into the groove by ordering delicious pizza when purchasing my ticket – that way you get it hot on arrival. Goes well with delicious Aussie bubbles. The popcorn, though, was not half bad.

I was so impressed with the checking in process at Hoytts Cinemas in Frankston. Our health matters.

As for the locations in this Bond flick, again, I was transported to amazing destinations I’ve visited and others still on my list. Gosh, I can hardly wait for the next instalment. Who will take over the Bond role? Big martini shoes to fill.

Sofa spud

If you want some action with plenty eye candy on the telly at home, I recommend Red Notice. Dwayne Johnson (The Rock), Ryan Reynolds and Gal Gadot. Can’t get better action, or a better unexpected twist, in any tale…

Blythe Spirit, starring versatile Aussie actor Isla Fisher, Leslie Mann, Dan Stevens, and Judi Dench. One of my favourite Noel Coward plays, which took me back to my days working backstage in theatre. Loved it.

Nine Perfect Strangers, based on the book by Liane Moriarty, proved a gripping mini-series. It takes place in a boutique health-and-wellness resort, where plenty unfolds, secrets are revealed, and lives are changed forever. Produced by maestro David E. Kelley, the soundtrack is superb too, compiled by Marco Beltrami and Miles Hankins.

Festive in slow fashion

Ah, and again, just like that, after too much loungewear during lockdowns, we could glam up and dress in our finest for the Holidays!

I love the weather of Melbourne. It is so reminiscent of the Cape in South Africa, where we often got cool days to ease off some intense summer temperatures. Even some rainfall to cool things down, thus, keeping our style choices interesting, is welcomed – for the garden.

Layers are so my thing, and it becomes easy to plan a wardrobe when we only buy new items to complement our existing wardrobe mix. It makes for a more sustainable lifestyle, creating a slow-fashion trend, which is dear to my beating fashion heart.

Linen, lace, satin, silk, cashmere, cotton, these are the fabrics I never let go of. So, vivid colours are back on trend? Mix them up with the classic, basic, and earthy shades we’ve become so accustomed to.

Ah, we wore those bright colours years ago! I keep my Pandora’s box, a large suitcase, okay, maybe two, to store wardrobe items completely out of style. Then, when those fashions return, or I simply want a different look, it’s like wearing something brand new.

My ethos towards clothes resembles my ethos for people. Choose wisely, pick long-term and sustainability, and the clothes as well as friends will withstand the sands of time. I try not to store my friends in a suitcase, though, even when they are out of style. It makes them rather testy…

I recently received a note from the founder of Feedspot, advising me I’ve been selected as one of the top 20 over-60 bloggers selected from around the globe. Naturally, I checked out the source prior to clicking on the link provided and it is legit. For now, I see, I feature in the top 3  Top 20 Fashion Over 60 Blogs – I’ll take it, thank you so much, Anuj for the heads up. Seems I’m in excellent company.

Cheers to the good life, folks, here’s wishing you enough of what you need to bring you joy in this brand-new era, 2022. Don’t forget to smile, in fact, laugh out loud, often. Folks who don’t enjoy laughter, will avoid you and think you’re nuts, whilst those who are of the same tribe, will adore you more…

by Tilly Smith Dix

As a novice DIY diva, I found ordering supplies from the hardware store rather tedious during lockdown. Trying to work out the names of certain products online proved tough at times, but I got it sorted, eventually.

So, where did I dash to the moment shops reopened for the public? Fashion boutiques? Hair salon? Shoe store? Wrong! Bunnings! Armed with my new power drill, curtain rods, curtain hooks, and a selection of screws and hooks that will make a decorator salivate, I headed into the store’s nursery section too.

I needed colour in my new garden and was set on acquiring indigenous plants to attract butterflies, bees, and native birds. Mission accomplished! Butterflies are arriving and I’ve already spotted a red wattle bird in my young bottle brush trees.

Just learning to fit the drill bits in the drill proved an education and luckily, I had my kind friend Rika around, who smartly reads the instructions in detail! Always a good idea. NOBODY was injured in the process and all my fingers are intact. I also did not fall off the ladder, yay.

The lengthy lockdown clearly, affected so many people, often not in a good way. I’m rather grateful I had so much to do during that trying time. It kept me too occupied to ever feel sorry for myself. Loneliness, stress and a general feeling of alienation during those long 260 days seem to have been rife and so many people will struggle with the aftermath, not to mention financial struggles.

We need to be mindful of this as those feelings of desolation don’t simply vanish once the ordeal is over.

On one of my trips to the shopping mall post-lockdown, a woman, who was tearful and seemingly distressed, skipped the queue when needing to pay for parking at the pay station. Nobody standing in line at the pay point said a nasty word. We simply looked at her kindly from behind our obligatory masks. It was obvious this woman felt agitated and overwhelmed.

The parking attendant assisted the woman, with great care, looking at the rest of us with pleading eyes. Once the customer felt her problem had been attended to, she seemed calmer, and then realised she’d jumped the queue.

She turned to me, as she’d pushed in front of me, and had tears streaming down her face, apologising profusely. I assured her all was okay and I was so relieved she had help and it also clarified the paying process for me, as this was my first visit to the centre.

It felt so good not being angry and the fact it might have restored the woman’s faith in humanity, improved my mood even further for the rest of the day. Humanity has not completely lost the plot.

This incident reminded me of women who support women. This mindset is close to my heart. Women who appreciate and admire other women are my kind of tribe.

When my talented friend Chiz designed my fashion Instagram logo for Sixty_is_the_new_40, my reason for choosing the title was poignant for me. Friends in this age group, who were superb in their jobs, were being put on retirement to make way for a younger generation. The lucky ones got to consult as someone had to train these young future stars of business. Smart companies retained many over-60s as they realised their value. Many did not…

So, my mindset for the Insta handle was simple: Over sixty does not mean over the hill.  Forty seems a good, relevant age. Not too young. Not yet ‘old.’ For me, personally, I felt a shift when I turned forty. I started a new life, moved back to the big city, embarked on a new career path. My attitude attributed plenty as I felt I’d come into my own at the time.

So, when I turned sixty, I felt slightly adrift but not lost. How did that happen so fast? The world saw us as ‘older,’ and often, ‘over.’ Sadly, some people accepted this and sat on the porch counting cars and became depressed.

I’m not trying to be forty. I’m establishing the fact that we are as relevant now as we were at forty. We start new lives. We are sexy. We come into our own. We start new businesses. We pursue new hobbies. We are fabulous. We pursue life at our own pace and on our own terms. We matter.

This mature age group is the new warrior tribe going forward. We have knowledge, confidence and make the most of our appearance as we are proudly ageing and making this not only a new chapter, going forward to our seventies and beyond, but creating a whole new era. Never doubt how amazing this tribe is and what we are capable of achieving.

So, whilst I’m not there yet, when I hit 70, I’ll be changing the title. I’m thinking Sixty+Beyond_is_the_new_fabulous – or simply, Sixty+_is_the_new_era – any ideas? Let’s talk.

Be kind to each other, learn from each other, respect each other, don’t judge each other. Want to have invasive surgery to look younger, have botox, do whatever it takes, go ahead. Don’t wish to succumb to the needle or the knife to chase everlasting youth? Our choice. I don’t do botox and fillers. I don’t colour my hair either. However, this is my choice. We are free to choose. We just need to know where to draw the line.

If we drop or need to fix a bad stitch of this tapestry of life, it simply makes us more interesting. There is a space for us all, especially for authentic women supporting women, and men supporting women. Misogynists and narcissist are not welcome. Scoot off.

Trouble with the Neighbours

Things get a bit tricky when you live in a unit, where you share common property, like the roadside and parking spaces, with strangers. We can’t always pick our neighbours.

One or two of these neighbours have toddlers and are flushing baby wipes, yuk, down the loo.  After the heavy rains in recent weeks, these offending wipes block the common sewage system and plumbers are called out, mostly at weekends, it seems, to remove the offending obstructions in the flow of things. Reality can be a stinker.

When the body corporate manager again failed to respond to my email in distress, I took matters in my own hands. I’d had enough as after only a week or so in my new home, housecleaning wipes had blocked the system, this time used by the previous owners, who believed such wipes were indeed flushable. The manufacturers said so, after all.

Anyhow, I decided to pen an anonymous note to all the other tenants, requesting they be mindful of the rest of us.

This is so unlike me, to be anonymous. Be honest and straight, that’s my motto. However, when asked by a dear friend why I did not reveal my identity, I retorted I had a fear of unknown neighbours – I did not wish to start a war.

My other fear, said neighbours may just throw their babies over my fence, demanding I clean their bottoms without flushing those stinky wipes. One just never knows what folks will do when cornered, right?

Then, a much-loved neighbouring cat spent a night with me. He was the best one-night stand a girl could wish for. Excellent bedside manners, housetrained, well-mannered and adoring. I suspect he snuck out while they were preparing to depart for a few days, not realising he had gone. Probably a self-feeding system and plenty of kitty litter were left for him.

My one-night stand, Ollie. He stayed, he ate, he charmed, he slept, he left…sigh…

I’ve not told them he spent a blissful night with me. They must have been relieved to have him back home too once they returned and found him missing. He heard them return and after a brief goodbye, similar squeaky voice to my darling departed Cathy, he hopped my high fence with the stealth of a panther to return home the following day after a delicious lunch of tinned sardines.

I’ve spotted Ollie once since then, welcoming his adoring little blonde human home from school. The cute little girl once told me he was her best mate and does not leave her side if she is sick.

I think Ollie is cautious about leaving the house now, for fear of his humans leaving him again since lockdown restrictions were lifted. My ego is not crushed – maybe just a little. The upside? I’m hoping the neighbours and Ollie will be more careful going forward.

Dine, wine and embrace good times

Always a keen cook, I must admit I became rather bored with my own food after 260 days in lockdown. After all, dining out is an occasion. It is also a time to spy on good chefs and try to recreate their dishes at home. Ordering in is just not the same.

Well, I’m recreating nothing culinary at present. I’m sampling and getting busy on TripAdvisor to promote local eateries offering delicious cuisine and gracious service. My new job, chuckle…this cook is off duty for a while.

Meeting my friends to dine out is a delicious regular pastime again and never have we appreciated breaking bread and chewing the fat, washed down with tasty bubbles, more than now.

Lilo, in Mornington, is pure delight and catching a glimpse of the ocean adds further joy.

A great spot for breakfast or lunch and I’m told they are working on a license to serve alcohol. For now, the chai tea latte is nectar of the gods – for brunch.

My friend and I decided on ordering two different dishes to share so we could enjoy several different flavours. The choices of fritters and croquettes, with bacon and a poached egg, proved scrumptious. My choice, the sweet corn fritters with smashed avocado and bacon on baby spinach and the sweetest tomatoes. We could not fault it!

A scenic drive to Martha Cove afterwards, and an easy stroll to Pebble Beach, proved an ideal way to walk off our ample brunch.

      

The Baths Restaurant in Sorrento is one of my favourite dining venues on the planet and a cold rainy spring day did not deter two good friends from tucking into the always delicious food and captivating ocean views of the ferry.

The mouth-watering Loaded Seafood Chowder, Flash Fried Japanese Calamari, Grilled Humpty Doo Barramundi served on new season asparagus, and Grilled Prawns served on warm soba noodles and enoki salad, enhanced by citrus wasabi, ticked all the flavour boxes. Not a morsal left on our plates.

Yes, life is beautiful here on the Mornington Peninsula and a restaurant my lovely circle of friends has grown to cherish, is Waves on the Beach in Frankston. If we were any closer to the beach we’d be sitting in the water.

Calling ourselves the three musketeers, we celebrated a good life here, and as our eyes, as always, were bigger than our proverbial stomachs, we ordered a starter for three to share, followed by our individual mains.

Walking in Martha Cove, watching marine crabs chase shadows, and dining on scrumptious prawns and barramundi at The Baths with vistas of the ferry on a rainy day in Sorrento – welcome to the Mornington Peninsula.

Suffice to say, the Spanish Prawns, cooked in smoked paprika chilli oil with chorizo and sourdough, was finger-licking-delicious! Dipping our bread in the remaining sauce was as fabulous as dining on the best tapas somewhere in Spain. Just better, with our panoramic azure sea vista.

My Lamb Shank, served on Linguini, was succulent and oh so tender. Trish’s Pan-Seared Barramundi, topped with scallops, toasted nuts and seeds with chat potatoes, green beans, and lemon caper butter, was perfection on a plate.

Rika declared her choice of Bengali Lamb Curry, slow-cooked in aromatic spices and served with black mung bean dhal, rice and pappadum, a veritable feast.

How could one be dining so close to the sea and not enjoy a delicious champagne? Our choice of the Varichon et Clerk NV blanc de blank cuvee from Savoie, France, was simply delicious. Priced the same per glass as a local prosecco, there was no contest. The French won this round. We support local, but seriously…

Just to show we have no beef with the Spanish, in fact we like their beef, a meetup with another lovely friend in Mornington proved another delightful interlude.

Sue had been locked out of Victoria whilst on holiday in NSW and she had no complaints. Her partner and cute silky terrier also had fun on the beach, away from the madding crowd, for several months.

We met up at Casa de Playa in Mornington for Spanish tapas and it was a treat. Ole. A huge thumbs up for this vibey eatery…

Having missed all three birthdays of the three pixies in my family, having them around to visit after such a lengthy separation was pure heaven.  Heaps of hugs, stories, sugar and giggles, not to mention them being happy with their respective belated birthday gifts, kept a smile on my dial for days afterwards.

Affairs of the sofa

I thank the gods of television entertainment for keeping sanity intact during our forced incarceration. Sharing some of the gems that caught my fancy and kept me amused…

The Judge – 2014 on Netflix. The sterling cast includes Robert Downey Jr, Robert Duvall, Vera Farmiga and Billy Bob Thornton. A riveting binge and some catchy one-liners. Duvall, as always, is superb, whilst Downey Jr delivers the performance of his life, as far as I’m concerned. I’d watch this one again.

Old Doris Day and Rock Hudson movies. My parents used to go to the cinema once a month. We’d go to a Milky Lane, have a burger, fries, and milkshake. In summer, I’d have a Cream Soda float. Heaven! Then, it would be a an early evening movie. I now find myself drawn to those old classics, which were easy on the eye, witty and nobody was brutally assaulted or killed. The ending was always happy too. I like that.

The Marvelous Mrs Maisel on Amazon Prime, what a treat! I became addicted and binged shamelessly on the first three series. Hoping Season 4 is in the bag, soon! Midge Maisel, brilliantly played by Rachel Brosnahan, is a woman ahead of her times in the Fifties. Susie, her gritty agent, is hilariously portrayed by Alex Borstein, whilst Abe Weissman, Midge’s father, is a larger-than-life character, portrayed by the ever-entertaining Tony Shalhoub. The entire cast is brilliant, and I developed a soft spot for the Lenny Bruce character, played by the enigmatic Luke Kirby. Get the snacks and cocktails lined up. You won’t want to leave your sofa and your laughter lines are bound to multiply.

Bond, James Bond, and Mission Impossible. Confession time. I love action flicks with style and happy endings, where the bad guys die. I loved the previous Bond movie, Spectra and will be watching the sequel, No Time To Die, in a cinema near me, where I’ll enjoy a glass of something delicious, not stirred, and a snack of crumbed calamari. Watch this space. Can’t wait…

As for the last Mission Impossible flick I watched, MI-4, whilst I’m not a fan of Tom Cruise, I savour the locations, action and visual splendour of these movies. So, Ethan and Bond now share a French actress… she is something, that Lea Seydoux. Mysterious. Unique. French. However, Paula Patton gets my vote. She just brings it home in MI-4. Pure escapism. One or two olives? Ah, decisions…

Speaking of martinis, Daniel Craig was never my favourite Bond. Sean Connery, Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan ticked the boxes for me. However, I never skip any Bond film. Mia culpa. After watching Knives Out, though, starring Daniel Craig, I changed my mind. I now dig this guy. Okay, so I’m fickle but honest… more olives, anyone?

A movie I found entertaining and visually pleasing, was Blind, also on Amazon Prime, starring Alec Baldwin, Demi Moore and Dylan McDermott. Sensitive and believable. I thought this a superb screenplay by John Buffalo Mailer of a story written by Diane Fisher. No doubt, Alec has serious acting chops. So does Demi. No contest. It is deeply disturbing and tragic, the recent shooting on Alec’s latest movie set. One can only hope the truth will set them free and justice will prevail.

The Love Punch. Take a mature British couple, delightfully portrayed by Pierce Brosnan and Emma Thompson, a divorced couple, deciding to unite in claiming what is rightfully theirs. Now imagine them in the South of France, where an enchanting caper unfurls. The locations are sheer escapism and I’m so chuffed to say I’d been to most of these places. The final scenes in Paris will have the most hardened heart purr with hope. Think of me…

Ah, then there are those Christmas movies. Some are just too sweet to be real, then then are the ones that help us believe in fairy tales again, such as A Castle for Christmas on Netflix. I am a huge fan of Brooke Shields. I love how she is ageing naturally and graciously. I also love Cary Elwes’ work. Seriously, I’d make him the next Bond. Picture a magical location in Scotland, which I adore too. A white Christmas. A castle. A dog called Hamish playing cupid. Perfect. Happy Christmas.

Style, video tapes and no lies

Fashion and styling my timeless wardrobe remain visual and creative therapy for me and when a delightful, uber professional and kind content scout approached me through my Sixty_is_the_new_40 fashion Instagram page, I was thrilled.

I was booked for several hours of pure fun and entertainment, working with the highly skilled video crew at my new home. The focus was to demonstrate that women of a certain age are coming into their own, communicating with other likeminded people through social media and establishing themselves as an authentic brand.

As a proud silver sister, I had a blast! As soon as the link is released by the ad agency for their client, I’ll share. For now, I’m teasing…the reason? This entire experience is a testament to WHY I started my blog and WHY I launched the fashion Instagram account: to have fun and establishing myself as a woman who is true to herself, who will never stop learning and will enjoy fashion, style, and all the joys of nature and life, for as long as I live and breathe. Viva, we are OLDER, not OVER! Cheers to not sitting on our porch counting cars.

During filming, I also illustrated the process of planning my outfits for my fashion shoots and thoroughly enjoyed showcasing my ageless, often classic, as well as vintage, style, which features in living colour in current fashion trends. My motto, buy only outfits and accessories that will withstand the test of time as true style will always return to the fabulous canvas of ageless, gorgeous fashion.

Style over fashion, any day. Spot the basic pieces, styled in different ways to suit any occasion or mood. The hero items for me, French linen shirts, including that fabulous black halter top, personify timeless Aussie fashion at Country Road and Witchery. We had some nippy days in spring, hence the images in the top row, sporting a cashmere coat with faux fur, a fitted leather jacket, and suede pants with matching jacket, all from my vintage closet acquired in South Africa a long time ago.

Whatever your spiritual belief, here’s wishing you and yours Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad, Buon Natale, Joyeux Noel, and Geseende Kersfees – joy to the world. May we all embrace kindness, understanding, respect, gratitude, and compassion, a universal language. Here’s wishing you plenty of it. Cheers to the good life…

by Tilly Smith Dix

Lockdown level 4 has been a grind and people, especially kids, are struggling with the strict confines and home schooling. Melbourne is now known as the city with the longest lockdown restrictions in the world.

Fortunately, when one is moving home, it is regarded as an essential activity and it was during this time I changed my address, moving from the verdant Yarra Valley on the city’s outer East to the Mornington Peninsula, similar in distance from the city but located closer to the bay.

Again, I declared the next time I move house, it will be in a box to my permanent home of the spirit world, chuckle. I said that once before and ended up moving to another country. Never say never…another chuckle.

So, I had the move planned with precision. One needs to do that to maintain some level of sanity as it is a task not to be sneezed at, moving house. I was systematically, meticulously, moving items after thoroughly cleaning the new house, so as to have as little disruption as possible in the process.

Keep the bare essentials at the old house until the day of the final move, and cart the lighter stuff in unsealed boxes to the new address, unpacking where it would be utilised, then returning to the old home with the now empty containers. This was the plan.

I felt in total control. Then something bizarre happened and I realised I needed to hightail it faster to my new abode. If I’d known this would happen, I’d have had time to arrange a nervous breakdown. However, I had no time nor the resources to allow such frivolity, so I could hardly afford dropping the basket. I switched into energiser-bunny mode and packed like a demon to speed up the process.

My incredible family and a friend who is now like family, pitched in, which was allowed under the circumstances, loading their vehicles with me as the project manager and chief packer. Apparently, they were astounded at my energy, strength, and determination. I had no time to ponder this, as I just needed the job done! Woman on a mission, beware!

On the final day, the removalists arrived to pack up the heavy items, and fridge, bed, washing machine, furniture and garden furniture were relocated without a glitch.

Still, I remained in that highly charged, altered state of unpacking in, and organising my new space. Until an injury to a big-toe nail slowed me down. I guess I needed that, alas, could have done without the agony, as I needed to slow down after a month of energiser madness.

I slept for 10 hours, unaided by champagne. This is when I realised whilst the spirit is willing and the body keen, there is only so much one body can take before it needs to be recharged. Well, Rome, as the saying goes, was not built in a day and I became kinder to me.

Having always prided myself on having an excellent memory, which served me well as a journalist and then as a publicist, I haven’t the foggiest clue how I managed this great trek so fast.

It has to be said though, without the emotional support of said loved ones, not to mention my special tribe around the globe, I’d have cracked like Humpty Dumpty. So, cheers to never being too old to make yet another big move and never forgetting how lucky I am to have these special, caring souls in my life. Thank you from my heart’s bottom, said whilst blowing kisses of gratitude. Namaste.

To crown my joy, living in this new tranquil space, a loving couple of spotted doves built a nest in my small private garden, from where I have taken enormous pleasure observing the dedication and care with which the male and female are tending to the nest. I feel privileged they chose my tree from which to launch their new family.

Of course, I miss my sweet Cathy as she’d have loved this quiet space but for now, I have the doves cooing their contentment. She was way past her hunting days and would have simply moaned at the doves and complained to me about allowing these feathered beasts to nest within spitting distance of her favourite throne at the foot-end of the bed, from which she would observe them through the window…

        

Living mere minutes from the sea is a bonus. I grew up near the sea and loved sailing on an estuary with friends as a teen. Whilst the Mornington Peninsula does not have the majestic mountains of the Western Cape of South African, there are aspects of the region that trigger happy memories of my years on that glorious coastline and making new memories in my beautiful surrounds is sheer bliss.

I’ve managed to meet my friends for walks in Frankston, where a stroll along the long white beach and along scenic Kananook Creek, a takeout coffee and toasty seemed like a glorious holiday. Lockdown has given us all a new appreciation for the little things that bring plenty joy.

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I’ve also had to visit scenic Mt Eliza nearby to attend to essential business and savoured every moment of the 20-minute drive along the beachfront, return. Grabbing yet another takeout coffee and gazing at the moody ocean, with Melbourne depicted as some faraway Gotham City, again felt like a gorgeous escape from lockdown. Yep, silver linings abound…

For those feeling adrift during a pandemic, reach out to others. Often, we discover our problems are miniscule compared to those of others. In the quaint words of my beautiful friend of so many years, living faraway in Florida, we must embrace our lives as being, “tickity-boo.” Thanks for the smiles from so far away, Angie.

Sofa spud binges in lockdown

Harry’s Law is not just another law series.  Kathy Bates gets my vote as a middle-aged lawyer who gets fired from a big law firm and starts up her own practice with a diverse legal team, in a shoe store in a Cincinnati ghetto. Created by David E. Kelly, I’m disappointed the series was cancelled by NBC after Season Two, even though it was the most watched series on the network, according to the entertainment media! Something to do with Paramount owning the rights. Politics, sigh.

Having had plenty legal matters to deal with in the past almost two years, watching this series made me realise my problems were small! I love quirk and some of the unusual cases, not to mention befriending seemingly dangerous gang members who often tend to have a soft side, the often-unorthodox situations proved thoroughly entertaining. I’d gladly give this series 4.5 stars.

Pan Am is not just about pretty flight stewardesses and handsome pilots. Well, there is that but far be it from me to say I don’t enjoy looking at beautiful people, especially captains in uniform, wink-wink. The stellar cast includes the gorgeous Aussie, Margot Robbie, feisty Christina Ricci, lovely Karine Vanasse, enigmatic Kelli Garner, and handsome Mike Vogel. The layered web of romance, espionage, and stunning locations for great story lines, proved a delightful diversion.

This series takes place in the early Sixties and the war was still raw in many minds. Jack Kennedy built political bridges, declaring, “Ich Bin Ein Berliner,” which did not resonate with everybody. Five stars for the fun of this series.

Somehow, watching Pan Am reminded me of the late Seventies when I fancied myself as a flight attendant. Instead, I got bamboozled into a film test. Couch casting was offered after my two small movie parts.  I refused. No regrets. But I missed my chance to fly. However, I got to travel on my own terms eventually.

Travel back in the day seemed so much more glam. Sadly, 9/11 and Covid-19 diminished the gloss of travel but, once the world is back on a more normal track, all will be forgotten, and dreamy destinations will lure us to distant shores again. For now, I’m happily ensconced in armchair travel and savouring magical memories of travels of old…

On a more serious note, a movie gem I came across on Amazon Prime, based on true events during WWII, is A Call to Spy. Director Lydia Dean Pilcher and a stellar cast, including Stana Katic, of Castle fame, Sarah Megan Thomas, Radhika Apte and Linus Roache, tell the story of how Winston Churchill ordered his spy agency to train women to undermine the Nazi regime in France.

Not always comfortable to see these events unfolding, but we must never forget. Directed with sensitivity and style. I highly recommend this movie and gladly give it 4.5 stars.

The Only Living Boy in New York. Take Jeff Bridges, Pierce Brosnan, Callum Turner, Kate Beckinsale and Cynthia Nixon, add a nuance story, laden with intrigue and surprises, and you get a sophisticated hidden gem on Amazon Prime. The soundtrack is so New York, I could smell that city of many layers. Watch it. This one deserves five stars.

Summertime, and the living is easy… and travel choices abound in South Africa

Luxe safari at Tau Game Lodge

Getting away from it all, to a place where the living is easy, the ambience understated luxe, the food is wholesome, and the spa overlooks the verdant bush…

Add lazing around two pools, one with infinity features, both overlooking a waterhole always frequented by game, or sipping cocktails in the privacy of one’s room deck, or reclining on the main hospitality deck, all with too-close-for-comfort vistas of the waterhole. No stress, visitors are safely surrounded by security fences to keep the predators at bay, while game roam free as they own the location.

This is just some of the magical safari aspects at Tau Game Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve of the North-West, bordering Botswana.

Early morning safaris are spectacular, offering magical light for photography, with a pitstop for tea, coffee or hot chocolate, and delicious buttermilk rusks in the bush, whilst game rangers always keep a vigilant eye on game – got to keep the paying guests safe…

        

Tau Game Lodge, five-star understated luxe…great memories.

Current rates:

Special daily rates start at R 4,800 per person sharing, valid until 20 December 2021. After 20 December rates will be R6435.00 per person sharing – contact reservations for weekly and monthly special offers and packages at  +27-11–4668715 or check specials at www.taugamelodge.co.za

The Cherry Steam Train Festival at Sandstone Estates

In celebration of newly relaxed Covid-19 restrictions, narrow gauge steam trains, restored heritage transport and farming equipment, magnificent vistas of mountains, and simply in celebration of life and the tradition of the age-old cherry harvest, just north of Ficksburg…

This getaway is set to put the ‘wow’ back in life on 19 and 20 November. The Cherry Steam Train Festival at Sandstone Heritage Trust Estate in the Free State of South Africa is designed to thrill all ages – a magical, fun getaway for the entire family.

Steam fun for all ages at Sandstone on 19 and 20 November 2021.

One of the many highlights of the event will include Sandstone’s latest restored steam locomotive, the 1968 Johannesburg built NGG16A number 155, which will haul trains for the first time in 21 years!

Call Mariette on 064 752 3852 or 051 933 2235 or visit www.sandstone-estates.com for further details.

Fashion therapy

Spring has shown her true colours, albeit sporadically but how one appreciates her when she bedazzles the senses!

Layers just work during this trans-seasonal time and frankly, I like it, as we simply have to get creative. Wearing a silky camisole, layered with a linen shirt and perhaps a cashmere wrap, or cardigan, styled with loafers or heels, whatever the mood happens to be, creates a sophisticated, yet versatile style for any body shape.

I believe in investing in good basics for any season, which will transcend trends over many years.

Feeling overweight or just not comfortable with the body shape at present? Use a basic dark colour. Black or navy always works. Now style it up with perhaps a slightly lighter colour and finish the outfit with a pop of bright colour, perhaps around the neck, to highlight your face and detract they eye from body parts you wish to keep hidden for now…

 

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I’ve always loved white. For any season. It works with layering and will do the job every time as a basic palette.

I’m loving the boho vibe for summer and have hauled out my scarves and kaftans to update any basic dress, pants, or skirt. If I can’t travel to the Riviera for now, I’m going to do my best to create the vibe in my own back yard!

Cheers to the good life, it’s not always perfect but we simply have to create colour and shine. The rest will follow…take care of you!

By Tilly Smith Dix

This tapestry of life will often throw us an unexpected cross stitch, just to show us we are not in control, even when our intentions are good and our attitude positive.

Never have I realised it more than in recent weeks, when my devoted little shadow, trusted confidant and foot-warmer, fell ill and I had the choice to keep her comfortable for as long as her deteriorating body and now fragile disposition would allow.  She was not to suffer or endure pain just to keep her with me for selfish reasons.

The vet agreed this was the best choice for Cathy. He prescribed antibiotics to at least clear up her bladder infection. She deserved a dignified passage onto the Rainbow Bridge when she was ready.

Brave, feisty, pretty Cathy, who lived rough for some time until the day she decided to take me up on my offer of a haven. Always a remarkable communicator with her favourite human, she made it clear on the morning of 26 July 2021 that she wanted to end her journey on this earth. She was now in pain and she was losing the use of her front paws. Her head would also unexpectedly quiver.

In the wild, she would have chosen a bush in a quiet corner in which to fall into that quiet place, where pain would shift her into that outer body elevation, so she could simply float away to escape a condition that was irreversible. Stage four kidney disease.

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         Pictured above, eastern spine bills, crimson rosellas, and plenty more colourful bird species on view through the window, where Cathy would spend her winter days on a warm bed. In summer, she’d stroll in the garden with me. The feather on her face floated down from a tree, where a juvenile rosella was expressing its glee. Cathy found it entertaining to play with that feather.

Instead of that bush, she chose to no longer eat and made it clear she wanted to crawl under her favourite blanket in the sun on the bed but she did not wish to see daylight. She wanted the dark of the blanket over her head.

Cathy always had a healthy appetite and until a few days prior, I could still bribe her with some extra cooked chicken, brown rice and sweet potato, in which I could camouflage her arthritis meds.

Now, she merely wanted to be warm and comfortable, after briefly looking out of the window, as she did most days, moaning at the birds outside one more time, before her choice of bush could be crept under.

I respected that and called the kind, caring veterinary team at Coldstream Animal Aid, where the staff had become accustomed to her grace as well as her excellent communications skills. She’d also made it clear to them, especially over the past weeks, she would tolerate certain procedures and prodding only if her trusted human could be with her. They respected that.

And so, after several weeks of palliative care, when the electric blanket was kept on low to keep her comfortable 24/7 to ease her arthritic aches during a cold wet winter, she made it clear she had no more fight left to remain by my side.

She had been on a natural product for arthritis for some years but as she was eating so little towards her final days, she could not consume enough food to absorb the prescribed dosage to ease her body aches.

I promised Cathy I’d not let her suffer when she had had enough and she soldiered on, albeit now walking in a geriatric, unbalanced manner, shaking her little head as if she had Parkinson’s disease. Never fond of being picked up, she now signalled she needed my helping hands to lift her onto and off the bed.

For several weeks, this smart little cat seemed grateful for the step I’d built for her with shoe boxes to ease her ascent and descent from the bed. No longer did she want to utilise her own beds, strewn around the house. She wanted the human bed she shared most of the time, where it was warm and her view through the window into the garden was unhindered.

Even on her final day on this earth, she showed dignity and wished to walk to her litter tray to do her business. However, she had stopped grooming herself and the sad smell of death started to not only emerge from her breath but from her rapidly declining little body. Even then, she was still a beauty.

Staying with her during her departure from pain and disease, assuring her of my love and gratitude for her intelligence, devotion, love, and often straight talk, was no walk in the park for this human. It took all my determination to speak to her calmly, lovingly, and reassuringly until she let out her final sigh with her little face in my hand after that second, lethal dose of anaesthetic. It broke my heart but hopefully, it eased her journey, knowing she would always be loved and never be forgotten.

Palliative care is tough on us humans. We ensure our pet is kept comfortable and happy. However, observing their deterioration, day by day, is heartbreaking. A fellow animal-loving friend said, “our pets don’t know they are sick. They only know they are loved.”

On a sunny day, after some torrential rains on the country estate where I lived in South Africa almost ten years ago, she arrived on my doorstep and requested permission to enter. I invited her in and from that moment, the wild, seemingly feral cat and I shared an amazing bond of trust. I’d watched and tried to coax her to take shelter in my home during those heavy rains, when she got flushed out of the drain where she had been living for some time. It took several days for her to think about my offer and come to my door. She proved to be a highly intelligent and well-mannered little diva.

However, she did not like being touched, her trust in humans had obviously been tested and she was adamant. I respected that and we just conversed.

She would rub against me, and lick my feet with gratitude after I’d fed her. She seemed proud of her achievement when I showed her, once, how to use a kitty litter tray. I told her how smart she was for catching on so fast as this adult kitty had obviously never used a litter tray.

Exhausted after living so rough and being abused by local farm workers, who believed cats were sent by witches to cast evil spells, which I tried to educate them about as being old-wives’ tales, Cathy would sleep all day in the soft little bed I provided for her in the sun in the bedroom. At night, she’s sleep close to me on the bed.

Late afternoon she would stroll into my home office and often sit on my desk. She seemed fascinated by the computer. In fact, she seemed fascinated by most things I did. I was her chosen human, and she was going to observe my every habit, it seemed. Even the girly things, like doing my hair or make-up, getting dressed, taking a bath, seemed to intrigue her.

I’d brush my teeth, and she’d jump on the bathroom counter, and attempt to drink water from my glass or, her personal favourite, straight from the dripping tap.

When I took her to the vet for a check-up and her required shots and microchip shortly after we adopted each other, it was discovered she had indeed been someone’s pet as she had been spayed. The vet agreed, her fear of being touched could have stemmed from being physically abused. However, by now, she was comfortable with me picking her up and stroking her.

Having her ears and chin scratched resulted in amplified purring. She was also gracious in allowing the vet to go about his business touching her when I was with her and talking to her.

The stories about Cathy are endless as she had a large personality and never failed to show her appreciation for being given a loving home. She used to take walks with me, her choice, and stay at my side. She’d find twigs and drop them at my feet. I’d throw them and she’d chase after them, like a little dog. If she sensed danger, in particular a dog that was on the loose, she’d dash straight home and await my return.

Not keen on strange humans, she was inquisitive, though, if I was conversing with people. So, she’d join in and acknowledge they were welcome if I approved. The neighbours miss her interaction, with me and Cathy on the porch, chatting over the fence with them.

These are the neighbour’s she’d also ignore if I was away for a few nights and they’d feed her. On day one, she’d pop from the bedroom to welcome them. However, once she realised it was not me, she’d return to the bedroom. After that, she’d only eat the food they’d leave for her in the kitchen once they’d mad their departure. Awkward, right?

Eating chicken without her quietly appearing in the hope of a treat, which she always got, is torture. However, how to deal with grief? Keep doing those everyday things that so poignantly remind us of our loss. Eventually, the pain lessens but the memories never fade.

The very hens next door she wanted no part of, would cluck away when I’d deliver some of my fresh food scraps. Cathy would wait at the neighbour’s gate for my return and complain about my chatting to the chooks. I’d then stroke her, she would seemingly reprimand me for interacting with the enemy, I’d reassure her, and we’d have a companiable stroll back into the house. This little cat has left a huge void.

Cathy also had a keen eye for footwear. She made no secret of the fact that my new discounted bunny-face slippers were not meeting with her approval. She’d stare at them, look up at me and march off. I’d replace them with my trusty old wool slippers, would stroll up to her, and she would rub her little face against them. Ever the clear communicator.

I also had several gifts of stunned juvenile snakes, which she would drop at my feet in my office during those early years! Luckily, they were in shock or pretending to be dead, so I’d scoop them into a kitchen container with some ventilation, until I could deliver them back to the bush by early evening, when they’d start showing signs of life!

Brace yourselves, there will be plenty more stories about this incredible, brave, determined little cat and I’m also working up the courage to add chapter two to the initial story from Cathy’s assumed perspective, which was published on this blog under Tales from Home some years ago…

I had looked forward to moving to my new home, where I hoped she would spend many a day napping in her private little garden space, but the angels had other plans for this little trouper, who lived to age 16 or 17, the exact years of which the vets were uncertain.

Cathy had survived a tough life, abuse, a move across the waters with me, chronic pancreatitis, FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), for at least 7 years, arthritis, a 10ft fall from the sundeck (by rolling off when snoozing some years ago), the extraction of three teeth, several catfights to defend her home, where neighbours’ cats came to pick on her but sadly, the sudden onset of stage four kidney disease could not be reversed.

The first indication of the disease was frequent urination, drinking more water than before, and having two seizures, apparently brought on by the advanced stages of kidney disease.

Sadly, that devastating storm in June caused Cathy enormous stress. She seemed okay after a few days but a week later, we had wild winds again and that seemed to be a catalyst as the next day she had her first seizure, which seemed like a stroke. For several minutes she could not move her left front leg and looked at me pleadingly.

I called the vet and the blood tests revealed she was sicker than we suspected. The vet indicated the results were unexpected as Cathy still behaved in a robust manner.

Feeling helpless and wishing I could have done more to help this loving little pet, I am told, is normal. It is part of the grief and loss we suffer when we lose something so dear to us. Eventually, I will only remember the joy and love this devoted little cat brought into my life. Getting playful and rolling at my feet with joy when I listened to music that made me sing or dance.

Acceptance is often difficult. I miss our walks around the garden, with her chatting and me responding. Her sniffing the heated mat under my desk, indicating she was feeling the chill and I needed to turn it on. A creature of habit and a fast learner. I complied with all the love and care she deserved.

Cathy did grant me enough room for my feet, though, after spreading herself comfortably on that heated mat. Whilst enjoying the finer side of life, she was always ready for a chat and to show adoration and gratitude. A happy girl but never keen on other animals.

The welcome I got after a brief trip to the shops or running errands, was heart-meltingly sweet. Running to me, chattering, rubbing, and insisting on my hands scratching her under her chin. Ah, and did she love getting groomed! That soft brush, at first seemed suspiciously threatening to her but within seconds of our first grooming session, she was hooked on the tender care.

So, to now help me through this journey, I imagine my old Tiger, a large, robust, yet gentle cat I had the honour of spending 16 years of my life with before his body succumbed to kidney disease, arthritis, and cancer, to guide her and show her around that magical garden in the sky. To chase butterflies but never harm them.

Not simply a part of my past but a part of me, Cathy’s ashes will accompany me to my new home, where I am certain her feisty and communicative spirit will guide me to the spot in which she would like to be remembered in years to come.

My gratitude to my wonderful friends, fellow cat lovers, who have gifted Cathy’s individual cremation to me as a token of their caring hearts, and my family, and dear friends and neighbours who knew her and sent flowers to celebrate her vibrant personality, is endless.

At first, on arrival in that special place for our pets in the clouds, Cathy would have been cheeky with Tiger, I’d imagine, as she did not enjoy the attention of other animals but, being the gentle giant and charmer he was, I bet he now has convinced her of his genuine affection and devotion, as they had both basked in the light of my devotion.

I was lucky enough to have been honoured by their love, loyalty, and strong personalities.

So, even when we have a good life, we still need to deal with loss. This is my way and I hope my story will help you when you need to do the same.

Memories of Cathy come flooding back, constantly. The day a neighbour’s chook (hen) came strolling into the garden and walked straight past her. The look of total consternation on Cathy’s expressive little face was priceless. I could not stop laughing. She did not approve.

That look changed to pure fury when I spoke to the hen and picked her up to return her to the neighbours’ yard. Miss Cathy did not like to share her human with other animals.

Music has the power

It was during this labyrinth of grief I flicked channels to find a distraction and came across Echo In The Canyon, a documentary about the musicians who created amazing sounds when living in Laurel Canyon, California, during the hippie era. A place I visited and found fascinating years ago.

Featuring Jakob Dylan, son of Bob Dylan, and directed by Andrew Slater, I loved this authentic journey of a time when some of the most poignant music of our times was written and produced.

Be ready for an epic musical treat, which reverberated across the planet, by such iconic performers as The Byrds, The Beach Boys, Buffalo Springfield, The Mamas & The Papas, and the like. Interviews with Ringo Starr, Jackson Brown and Michelle Philips will entertain you, I bet.

So, this is how I came to discover Jakob Dylan, a musician-songwriter, and actor in his own right. I am now a devoted fan. So, to Cathy, I dedicate Goin’ Back, performed by Jakob Dylan and Beck, and Go Where you Wanna Go, performed by Jakob Dylan and Jade, originally performed by The Mamas and The Papas.

If you remember some of these musical geniuses, you’d love Jakob’s videos on YouTube…

I bet you’ll also enjoy Dedicated to the One I Love, such sweet echoes from the past…

Say cheese

A brief relief from lockdown resulted in a scrumptious lunch and vistas of the Yarra Valley’s verdant hills, green pastures, and cheese-producing goats at the Yarra Valley Dairy.

The cheese and charcuterie platters have not lost their charm and the local wine choices did not disappoint.

Ask for the cheese hotpot, on this day, it was gruyere with onions. So French, so delicious and the fresh bread was irresistible. So was the duck terrine. The goat and dairy cheeses, bottled calamata olives and other delicacies from the bijou deli won’t disappoint either.

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Sofa spud

My latest sofa TV binges comprise The Leisure Seeker, with superb acting by Helen Mirren and Donald Sutherland. Suffice to say this is a bitter-sweet, deeply moving film about an ageing couple. Have the tissues ready.

I became so engrossed in Late Night, starring the incredibly versatile Emma Thompson, I cheered when things turned out right! A feel-good binge, you’ll thank me later.

For Leonard Cohen fans, the sensitive documentary on his love for Marian, Marian & Leonard, Words of Love, will touch your heart. No spoiler alerts. A beautiful love story indeed.

Series I’ve enjoyed whilst escaping the realities of lockdown and depressing world news, include The Good Witch and Virgin River. Catherine Bell, whom I enjoyed watching in JAG years ago, will bewitch you, whilst every woman I know would love to marry James Denton, whom we all secretly crushed on years ago when he was the male lead in Desperate Housewives.

As for Martin Henderson, true blue Kiwi actor as Jack in the Canadian production of Virgin River, he gets my vote as leading man this round. Hoping Season 4 follows soon!

Travel plans

Never has travel seemed more alluring than now, after seemingly endless lockdowns and feeling imprisoned in our homes.

Local travel beckons, whilst many of us are reluctant to travel abroad for now. However, planning a local getaway and being a tourist in our own countries, is healing therapy.

Travel in South Africa is always a treat and while most international travel would be on hold for now, this means locals get to experience the best of the best – and reduced rates!

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Pictured above, endless fun for all ages as well as corporate team building facilities at Sandstone Estates in the Free State of South Africa.

Steam, heritage tours and a walk in the country

The Sandstone Walking Tours have proven an ideal getaway for visitors in need of the fresh, mountain air and magnificent surrounds of the Free State. Starting at the Waenhuis Café, small groups adhering to social distancing rules proceed on a walk down memory lane, which includes viewing:

Military vehicles, the tractor display, an ox wagon shed, steam and vintage sheds, vintage machinery, the vintage workshop, the main workshop, the stationery engine museum, a rolling stock shed, and the Sherman tank shed.

From Corporate team building to executive getaways, product launches and weddings, to year-end functions, television, video and photographic location shoots, Sandstone Estates cater for a myriad of interests. Some of the most recent group visits have comprised student, club, and tourist group outings.

Fancy a scenic trip to the Lesotho border in the BSA Rail Car, a 1910 classic Edwardian Rail Car, or perhaps the Wickham Rail Trolley, depending on numbers in your group…or perhaps an ox wagon or military vehicle ride afterwards?

Affordable accommodation for 32 guests, with options ranging from camping facilities, complete with an ablution block @R380-00 per stand per night, to six self-catering Victorian Cottages, which sleep 4 guests in twin-bed rooms, offering fully fitted kitchens and shower-bathrooms @R1,980-00 per cottage per night, including VAT. Railway cottages @R425-00 per person per night. Braai facilities are also on offer.

Call Mariette Palmer on 064 752 3852 or 051 933 2235 or email: mariettep@sandstone.co.za  for enquiries and visit www.sandstone-estates.com for further details.

Safari bliss at Tau

Waking up to the sound of a lion’s roar, a jackal barking, a cacophony of birdsong, or elephants trumpet…

Feeling chilly? Nothing a hot cup of chocolate, a rusk or muffin, perhaps with a dash of a warming Amarula Cream, won’t fix.

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This is how a morning safari starts at eco-friendly, family-friendly, malaria-free Tau Game Lodge in the Madikwe Reserve, only hours from Johannesburg. 

The five-star lodge is enclosed within the reserve, resulting in guests being subtly fenced in, while game roam free. This is also a birder’s paradise.

See the mesmerizing Tau live webcam at http://taugamelodge.co.za/main-lodge/live-webcam/

Current rates:

Special daily rates start at R4,800 per person sharing, valid until end September 2021 – contact reservations for weekly and monthly special offers and packages –  +27-11–4668715

Rates include:

One night, 3 meals and 2 safaris, as well as refreshments on safari drives.

www.taugamelodge.co.za

Style it up

Winter has been long, cold, and often wet here in my verdant Yarra Valley. However, I’ve always loved winter as one could layer up, style up and do plenty with some basic outfits.

Spring, I hear, is on her way but for now, she is hiding behind the late winter chill, giving me plenty reason to snug up in some of my vintage and more recent wardrobe choices, especially mohair and woollen coats.

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Pictured above, styling old with new. Acquiring current styles but understanding the versatility of a garment, will result in longevity. Much of the styles utilised above are from my vintage closet, with some new additions of soft corduroy pants and mohair knits. The image at the bottom features current stylish pants at Witchery Fashion, and an elegant longline white blazer from Zara.

Cheers to the good life, dear friends. It may drop a stitch or sadden us at times but in the end, there is plenty to lift our spirits – starting with nature, fashion and the love of those folks who truly care, and our animals. Oh, and don’t forget the bubbles…

by Tilly Smith Dix

It is said there is a price for living in beauty. Well, after my experience of last week, the price for living in a beautiful region could be exorbitant.

At first, after watching the news, on which the goddess-like blonde weather lady on Channel 7 advised us of the strong winds to be expected from Gippsland, I thought it just another storm in a teacup. After all, the weatherwoman seemed so cheerful during her seemingly delighted delivery of this expected weather event!

Having experienced three big storms, in which one of my trees landed on a neighbour’s roof, trees fell in my garden and even bigger trees fell on my road and surrounds, I became concerned when that quietly ominous wind started its sweeping carnage.

You see, we’d had a lot of rain as winter is our wet season here in the beautiful Hills, the gateway to the Yarra Valley, which leads to the Victorian high country, where the ski slopes beckon.

Why does the rain worry me in the eye of a storm? The eucalyptus trees, whilst growing impressively enormous, have a shallow root system. This results in these giants toppling so much easier when the ground is wet. Imagine sweeping hills and valleys, and you get the picture, trees falling downhill and wreaking havoc with powerlines, roads, houses, vehicles…

This storm, the worst in 40 years, the news anchor said, was different and far more forceful than its predecessors. It started off quietly, but determinedly. Then it built up to a crescendo, which sounded like a large plane flying around and over the house, non-stop, for approximately eight hours. It may have been seven, but I lost track of time.

The first loud bang, like a gunshot, went off behind the bedroom wall, where the cat and I were holed up under the covers. That was the power, gone. I looked through the window and saw a tree on fire. The tree that hit the powerline. I saw my neighbour running around his garden with a torch. I called him on the phone as we would not be able to converse in the noise outside and I was not going out there! I wanted him to get out of harm’s way! He wanted me to know he was calling SES – State Emergency Services.

Luckily, because of all the rain earlier, the tree hanging on the powerline did not burn for long but the damage was done.

Then there was another loud bang, this time, the powerline on the corner of my road, outside a neighbour’s house, exploded. A massive tree branch hit that one. The entire village was now in darkness.

I must have drifted off into some kind of slumber, or trance, and awakened sometime later, when it felt like the earth moved. Still, that drone of a Boeing flying around the house continued but it was no plane, it was the wind, now coming from the south.

This time, I grabbed the torch next to the bed as I heard voices and heard my name, when someone said, “it’s Tilly’s!” I thought perhaps my car had been overturned in the driveway. I stumbled to the lounge, to see what the commotion was through the large windows. Then I realised the view, albeit in darkness, was different. Why? Then it struck me, the massive tree outside my kitchen, where I have spent many happy hours observing and photographing the daily steady stream of prolific birdlife, was no longer there!

Pictured above, the devastation of a storm – in my garden and my neighbours’ home. Then the beautiful, unapologetic sky after…

I again became aware of my neighbours with torches, yelling in the wind, which was travelling at 125km an hour, still. What I saw in their collective torchlight clarified the panic in their voices, the canopy of that enormous tree had smashed through my neighbour’s roof. I was frozen. I could not move. I could not scream.

Finally, I called my neighbour again on his mobile and he confirmed the worst but, at least, nobody was injured. They were simply trying to move their furniture out of the rain pouring through the gaping hole that was their roof no more.

They could seek shelter elsewhere in their house and at least had gas for cooking. However, they now had no water. None of us had power.

They could stay with relatives the next day and their insurance company has put them up in a hotel since then. They remain sanguine throughout. Respect.

The unspeakable damage to homes, cars, powerlines, roads, not to mention the trauma suffered by everyone, not forgetting their animals and the wildlife, is heartbreaking. It will take weeks for folks closer to Mount Dandenong, nearby, to get power back on. As for rebuilding homes and overcoming the emotional shocks, those will take much longer.

A few days later, I received a call from a man named David. He is an arborist and heard about my tree and the neighbour’s damage. He clears trees at no cost for people in difficulty. There are angels on this planet.

After a discussion with my neighbour, we agreed, there are folks in peril who need this Good Samaritan’s services far more than we do at present. We have insurance. Many don’t.

If anything, in the eye of a devastating storm, the light shines bright on these beautiful souls, whilst resilience remains key.

As for that blonde operational meteorologist on TV, she honestly needs to take a turn in a drama school to fine-tune her news delivery style. Just saying.

Winter warmers

Winter is a celebration of whatever warms the soul, in my book anyway. If it warms the cockles of the heart binging on good movies, just do it. Love good music? Turn it up and dance as if nobody’s watching! Curling up with a good read and be transported into another life, go to it. Prefer to travel if you’re allowed and go on a gin tasting safari? Go!

If this past year and the pesky pandemic have taught us anything, it’s an appreciation for special moments, folks, and the good stuff that make us happy and grateful.

From spectacular sunrises to our faithful pets and the abundance of nature around us, life ain’t half bad.

A few weeks ago I had the privilege to attend a ‘special persons day’ at my little prince’s kinder. Seeing life through the eyes of a 3.5-year-old, him showing me all the amenities and serving me banana muffins baked by the teachers and parents, like a little gentleman, was a delight. Nothing melts the heart faster than the sound of children singing. I realised he might become an actor or performer as simply singing with the rest was not for him. While singing, he moved around, owning his space. Adorable.

Afterwards, I took him to his favourite café, set in parkland, which houses a petting farm, where children are allowed to feed chooks and goats at Edendale Community Environment Farm in Eltham. My little man Ashton was such a joy, and I was grateful for spending this quality time with him. These are the things one appreciates so much more now. Last year I missed so much of his and his two equally delightful sisters’ development during lengthy lockdowns. Carpe Diem.

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What’s your poison

I saw a social media post recently that resonated with me, deeply. As a result of our personal experiences and horror stories from women we know, and the news, a new ugly monster has reared its multi-faceted head, namely, man-bashing.

The moment someone writes about the bad behaviour of a man, or men, many women hop on that noisy wagon, adding poison to the ghastly wound. This often is a result of their own, or someone close to them, having been treated badly by a man. We found our voice and we are using it.

I do believe, at times, I’ve been guilty of that too. A little wiser now, and less inclined to believe that every male is a bullying, misogynistic narcissist, this is a shoutout to GOOD men. They deserve to be celebrated, respected, and adored. And, yes, they DO exist. I know several and have seen others with my own eyes and it is always heartening to see how those men’s partners flourish in their caring lovelight.

Long may they live, and it is our job to shine a light on their kindness and pure, old-fashioned respect for women.  I remember manners being drilled into our minds, as children. My late dad was a stickler for handling others with respect, especially women. He instilled such behaviour in my brothers too, starting during their formative years. And, if dad was at work, Mom made sure the mutual respect between the sexes were adhered to in the household. Simple rules.

The fact that some men are rotten and think it their satanic duty to abuse and stalk women, even on the internet, where they believe we position ourselves purely for their sick pleasure, cannot be denied. However, we cannot, in our hurt and annoyance, allow these vile bottom-feeders to blind us to the goodness of other men. Cheers to all the good men. And to the rotten apples, take a moment to learn from these gods. Oh, and advertising the size of your manhood or what you would like to do to us does NOT impress.  If that is your poison, scoot over to dial-a-tart-dot-com to find your own kind. Leave the decent women alone. Voetsek – it’s in the dictionary…

Gin’s the word

Armchair travel is my thing for now and, frankly, I’m deeply green with envy as my halcyon day memories of luxe safaris in South Africa are plentiful and everlasting. So, discovering that South Africans are travelling locally at highly reduced rates to five-star safari lodges, such as Tau Game Lodge in the Madikwe Reserve, stoked my enthusiasm!

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Gin tasting and winter specials abound at five-star Tau Game Lodge in South Africa.

Having visited that gem, where the game wanders free and the humans are safely contained within the lodge camp, Tau’s June special for gin tasting, overlooking that verdant waterhole, where the magical wild things gather for their own tasting 24/7, is pure safari heaven. Go to www.taugamelodge.co.za to go gin-gin! Out of Africa does not get better…

Staying close to home here in beautiful Victoria near Melbourne, I’ve not been short of delicious food and bubbles either. Lockdown is easing, and I’m off to support my local restaurants, cafes and wineries as we speak…

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So many delightful eateries, where service is friendly and efficient, the food delicious, the local wine pure nectar of the gods. Locations, from scenic city to panoramic Yarra Valley or picturesque Mornington Peninsula scapes, we are simply spoiled for choice.

My local dining maatjie (mate, great friend), and I have explored and often been pleasantly surprised. After an expedition of my surreptitiously looking at properties for sale, my current obsession, we met up for a quick, casual bite in Frankston, at Frankston Waterfront restaurant overlooking Kananook Creek.

The proprietor was about to close for a break before the dinner session but kindly served us anyway, and promptly, as we were ravenous. The crisp, golden crumbed calamari was tender and sweet, attractively plated with fresh, peppery baby rocket, drizzled generously with olive oil, and complemented by plenty aioli and fresh lemon slices. The local bubbles proved a perfect tipple and we promised, like Arnie, to be back, soon! Check them out, you won’t regret it.

Another favourite eating haunt, closer to the city, is Maling Road. I’ve written about the food often but strolling along that delightful community, where the vibe is happy and old world, I was particularly chuffed when I saw newly built office and apartment blocks reflecting the historical façade of most of the older buildings along that road! Hats off to the developers for paying homage to the old, yet, celebrating the new, with updated, gorgeous spaces.

Sofa binge

Filthy Rich, streaming on 7+ with Kim Cattrall. New Orleans. Christian Television network and all the drama and billions attached. Sadly cancelled after one season due to Covid restrictions and production costs. Hope it gets picked up again later by Fox. True escapism. Kim is sensational. Charismatic evangelism at its OTT best!

One of my many passions includes ballet, and the transforming music of composers focused on dance, such as Tchaikovsky. Years ago, I worked with dancers, musicians, actors, and opera stars. I savoured every nuance of their respective crafts. The dancers I particularly enjoyed interacting with at the time, included two highly acclaimed stars, then dancing in New York, Natalia Makarova, who had defected from Russia, and Ivan Nagy, who escaped from Hungary. Sadly, Nagy is no longer with us, and I now discover he retired from dance aged only 35, subsequently directing film and television, including episodes of CHiPs. He was married to Australian ballerina Marilyn Burr when he died. With a riveting noble stage presence, he was one of America’s most highly acclaimed dancers. He had, in fact, danced with Dame Margot Fonteyn as well.

Natalia Makarova was tiny, beautiful and frankly, born to dance as she floated across the stage like a gossamer butterfly as you could not hear her touch the stage floor! As we had similar measurements at the time, I did the preliminary fittings for her costumes, designed by my friend, sadly also no longer with us, Dicky Longhurst, who became a successful fashion designer.

Makarova and Nagy came to dance a world premiere of Swan Lake in South Africa. I was in dance heaven. Her performances set new standards of artistry in the West. Still beautiful at 80, I believe she still choreographs her passion, ballet.

A few years after working with them, they returned to South Africa and whilst I did not work with them at that time, I managed to say ‘hi’ at a favourite eatery on the Sea Point waterfront, La Perla, and I was immensely flattered they remembered me! Well, I guess you don’t forget a company manager (just an assistant PR making sure the stars are happy and arrive at rehearsals on time in those days), who took them gliding for entertainment! We all sang or whistled Windmills of Your Mind, during that quiet flight. If you are old enough to remember the original Thomas Crown Affair, starring Faye Dunaway and Steve McQueen, you’ll get my drift.

These vivid, magical memories came flooding back when I watched a documentary on Netflix of the magnificent Rudolph Nureyev. Seeing him described, at that time, as a dancer with animalistic charisma, does not surprise me. Beautiful, poised, and with a dark side stemming probably from beatings by his cruel Tartar father and the tough life they had when captured by Russia. I believe his emotional traumas inspired much of his relentless dance techniques, and an ability to embrace the art as a virtuoso as well as classical dance god.

I highly recommend this riveting documentary. His personal relationship with Dame Margot Fonteyn is not depicted in depth, mostly in dance, but there is an indication they loved each other deeply. Kindred spirits in dance, which in the artistic world often leads to romance. Such relationships are complex but I do have a deep understanding thereof. They were, indeed, magic on stage and his respect for her never dwindled, even when she left the stage to take care of her womanising husband, Tito,  Roberto Arias, when he became disabled. She died in Panama in 1991.

Another binge includes the finale, Season 3, of The Kominsky Method, starring Michael Douglas. He has aged like a fox and frankly, I enjoy his work more now that he is a silver fox. Sensitive, funny, poignant, this final series had me glued to the sofa for the weekend! Prepare to laugh, be outraged, and cry like a girl. I did.

Spotlight on style

Fashionistas abound and nobody could be more thrilled with the feminine, gossamer, floaty designs, reappearing in our midst, reminiscent of the Halston era, than me. Pure mastery, it was, except for his JC Penny era…

Watching all five episodes about this iconic fashion designer, who’s life sadly spiralled out of control because of drugs, drink and fast living, was riveting. Brilliantly cast and directed, the series on Netflix had me spellbound.

Ewan McGregor nails it in the title role, whilst Krista Rodriguez as Liza Minnelli, Rebecca Dayan as Elsa Peretti, Bill Pullman as David Mahoney, Gian Franco Rodriquez as Victor Hugo, and Rory Culkin as Joel Schumacher were all brilliant.

The fashion and elegance of the era, where plenty hedonistic action took place at Studio 54, currently a Broadway theatre in New York, which I spotted on my last visit to New York. Gosh, it was certainly an eyeopener what went on in that club – since 1927! I remember seeing pictures, in my early twenties, of Bianca Jagger riding a white horse into the Club on her birthday! This was a typical Halston era moment, I’d say.

My older sister, 16 years my senior, was a tall, movie-star model beauty, who always looked elegant. Some of my earliest memories of style and grace are of the cool elegance of Rina. She would have been a perfect Halston model. She is still a beauty.

A kind friend, returning from the US, brought me a frothy evening dress, designed by Halston in the late 70s, as well as the perfume. I felt like the queen of style, dancing at Raffles in Cape Town back in the day. I was invincible in that creation and the scent of a woman lingers on…

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Now in the chilly throes of winter here in panoramic Victoria, I’m loving the feather-soft, snuggle-friendly mohair, alpaca-merino wool blends and cosy comfort of being wrapped in luxe coats from my vintage closet. As for hats, any excuse, especially when it’s raining, and a bad hair day is threatening to overthrow any serious attempts at looking respectable in the hair department. A hat, a wise person once said, is making a statement without saying a word. Not talking hats with corks to keep flies at bay. Not all of us wear those here in Aussie…especially not in winter, when the flies head to warmer pastures, perhaps Queensland, as everybody seems to be ducking off in that direction, chuckle…

Here’s a taste of some of the current trends I’ve been featuring on my fashion page on Instagram – for more detail, pop to Sixty_is_the_new_40 for some winter style inspiration. While you are there, take a peep at some of my spectacular followers – those gals know how to shine their light on style, all over this fabulous fashion world of ours…from spring to summer, fall to winter, every season offers new beginnings and ways to refresh an ageless wardrobe…I call it therapy! They are also incredibly supportive of each other. A magical tribe.

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Cheers to a good life, choose joy, gratitude, and stay safe…

By Tilly Smith Dix

Well, just colour me in autumn shades of blissfully happy. Why, say you, when so many folks are already complaining about the colder season setting in?

This is the time for comfort food, cosy log fires, scenic drives, delicious cake, hot chocolate and my favourite, layering up for cosy comfort.

Cooking also becomes more fun as one does not feel like a slave in a hot kitchen. Rocking a full apron over comfy woollen sweaters, the scene is set for some hearty soups, warm puddings (date pudding is my favourite), and delicious casseroles.

Yes, I know in other parts of this blue planet others are now entering spring and I’m happy for them – new beginnings! Changing seasons is a beautiful thing and Mother Nature remains a marvel, in spite of too many humans doing their utmost to mess her up…

I’ve often featured the myriad colourful bird species gracing my garden with their presence. I, however, never take for granted the sweetness and peace of doves. I currently have a honeymoon couple canoodling on my deck daily, looking at me as if I’m a voyeur. Love makes them bold, I guess…who could blame them as the sunrise spectacular playing out over the Yarra Ranges certainly creates a profound sense of owning the panoramic views.

A childhood memory of me nursing an injured dove, giving it warmth in my bed, springs to mind. The poor creature was wrapped in soft old towels in no time, in its own bed, an open shoe box, as I ended up in the bath, pajamas, sheets and all, as the poor bird was covered in lice, which took a quick liking to the taste of my five-year old skin! I do remember my parents stifling giggles, shame on them, I was mortified. Happy ending, the dove survived and could be set free after a few days.

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Lovey dovey on the deck at sunrise over the Yarra Valley.

Cathy, me and the sofa

Speaking of trends, I’m kinda bored with the endless violence, loud music, space-age speed and unrealistic and often hard-edged contents of most movies and have decided to take a sabbatical from new movies, unless they come highly recommended. Call it my new therapy. It’s like wearing an old, comfortable pair of slippers. You know their flaws, but you know they’re going to keep your feet warm and toasty.

I might get shot at dawn for this criticism, but I honestly was bored watching the 2017 version of Murder on the Orient Express. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the cast, I never tire of the story and visually, it was magnificent. However, Kenneth Branagh really made a meal of promoting brand Branagh, I fear. I worship Dame Judi Dench and adore Michelle Pfeiffer, Penelope Cruz, Lucy Boynton and Willem Dafoe, not so keen on Johnny Depp anymore, but that’s personal, savvy…

I was addicted to Agatha Christie stories from my teens right up to my late twenties. Could not get enough. Mystery, glamour, always catching the bad guys so elegantly.

So, last night I watched the 1974 movie again. Directed by the late, great writer, producer and director, Sydney Lumet. The cast, similar to the most recent production, was very much a who’s who in Hollywood too, with the amazing and now sadly deceased Lauren Bacall, Vanessa Redgrave, Sean Connery and the still fabulous Jacqueline Bisset, whom I had the privilege of interviewing when she visited South Africa in the early 1990s. She was modest, gracious, and so natural and easy to converse with. I remain a fan.

As for the other late luminaries cast, such as Albert Finney as Hercule Poirot, John Gielgud and Ingrid Bergman, all I can say is some current stars and directors have enormous shoes to fill.

The music by Richard Rodney Bennett was sweeping and sophisticated, fitting for a grand event such as the Orient Express.

I did, however, find a delightful more recent movie on Netflix, titled Boundaries, starring one of my all-time favourite actors, Christopher Plummer, who sadly passed in February, with the beautiful and always authentic Vera Farmiga. I highly recommend this movie, a true gem. There are some telling lessons here and several great laughs. The one-liner that had me howling with glee, causing Cathycat to look at me with deep concern, was Plummer’s character telling his daughter, played by Farmiga, she was the Pied Piper of mange!

Vera’s character attracts stray dogs in need of physical and often emotional help. This movie gives one some quirky ideas about overcoming family drama and old grudges. I may watch it again.

Yep, it’s just dawned on me, many of the stars I admired greatly for so long are now dead. My late dad used to say you knew you were getting near the finishing line when most people you admired are dead. Scary but, in my defence, these folks were all plenty older than me…just saying.

That being said, life is for the living. The past is there only to draw good memories and valuable lessons from. Otherwise, the present is now, and we should savour every moment. Yes, we must plan and dream about a good future but the here and now is going to be in the past tomorrow! Deep, right? Simple, though.

Friends with benefits

Yep, that got your attention! Sorry, no sexy stories here, only good vibes about friends and family who have our backs, as we should have theirs.

Never, in my lifetime, has there been a time when I have felt more grateful than now. Given this pandemic, causing suffering and loss in so many ways, from physical and mental health, to financial disasters, having our tribe in our corner, is key.

With loved ones offering emotional comfort and some even financial assistance where needed, it has to be said, silver linings are more evident than ever. Never underestimate how much we need each other in good as well as bad times.

My sweet late mom believed in putting out caring energy. She often said the people at which you direct the much-needed comfort very often might not be the ones to return the favour when you need it but that in the end, the Universe equals it out. Now I hear a tune by The Beatles, The End, in which the lyrics end with: “And in the end, the love you make, is equal to the love your take….” Somehow, that works for me. More so than when I bought that album, my only Beatles Album, Abbey Road, all those years ago.

Feeding the beast

Ah, food, glorious food, so many choices, such eclectic choices and, joy of joys, we are able to eat in restaurants, drink wine and fix the world with the folks we adore spending time with.

I’ve reviewed Between Us on Maling Road, Melbourne before. However, I had a dish there recently, which was so spectacular, I simply have to mention it again. Next time you’re in Canterbury, try the crayfish tail, prawns, poached egg, sauteed dill spinach and sourdough bread. Washed down with a glass of delicious bubbles, and the world is hunky-dory, darlings!

I’ve just discovered where the term hunky-dory comes from, thank you, Professor Google! Apparently, it’s from a street called Honcho-dori in Yokohama, Japan, where sailors coming ashore go in search of all the things sailors on shore-leave go looking for. So, there’s your sexy story, happy now?

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Scenes from Waves on the Beach Restaurant, Frankston. Top right, prawns, chorizo and sour dough, lamb cigar, and golden fried calamari.

Another delicious meal consumed in the good company of my lovely tribeswoman Rika, was at Waves on the Beach in Frankston. Can’t fault a restaurant with great service, ocean as well as city views, and scrumptious food! Ah, and then there is the French bubbles, which, to our delight, happened to cost less than a glass of local. Go figure…

As usual, our eyes were too big for our stomachs after a scenic drive around the Mornington Peninsula. Ocean air will do that to you.

We picked three small dishes, to enjoy tapas style, and this proved a resounding culinary triumph. Lamb cigars, golden-fried calamari, and king prawns and chorizo bowl. I’ve not been to Spain as Italy and France always had a stronger draw for me but this kind of dining may lure me there! Hook, line and sinker, I’m a new fan of Waves on the Beach. In the words of Arnie, “hasta la vista, baby – I’ll be back…”

Book worm

Receiving a book to review is always a challenge as I’d like to deliver a glowing review but what if it stinks! As I honestly try to remain authentic, I tell all the collaborators who liaise with me I’ll not give a bad review of their product or books. However, if I don’t like it, I’d rather advise them and return their gift.

So, when I received a book from Smith Publicity in the US, written by Eugenia Zukerman to review, Like Falling Through a Cloud, I was captivated from page one.

           

This is a lesson in learning to deal with early onset of Altzheimers with grace and dignity. I cried and laughed. Eugenia’s creative mind refuses to give in without a challenge, painting her journey with poetic prose, often outraged. I salute this incredible woman and her courage is an inspiration. Some of her musings reminded me of my late mom’s struggles when her memory started to fade during the onset of Parkinsons, as well as my adored Melbourne relative’s current struggle with dementia. I highly recommend this book and if this does not bring poetry back on literary trend, I’ll eat my hard copy.

I could not have summarised it better than my favourite cellist, Yo-Yo Ma: “Eugenia Zukerman reminds us of the delicate balance between human fragility and resilience.” Indeed. Respect.

Fashionistas unite

I’m besotted with the new fashion trends for winter as it is so reminiscent of my youth. Feminine, sometimes edgy, flowing, or boho elegant. In fact, anything goes. You love Audrey Hepburn’s elegant style from Breakfast at Tiffanies? Got it. You like the trendy style so colourful and sassy back in the day when Carnaby Street was top of the pops? You’re in!

Never a follower of specific trends, especially if I thought they did not suit me, except for those enormous shoulder pads we wore in the Eighties, which only looked okay if we were 6 foot plus and stick skinny, cringe.

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Layered up for autumn. Much of the above featured items are from my vintage closet – slow fashion is my forte. Okay, I’m a sucker for good quality that lasts. The vibrantly coloured jumpers as well as the check knit are current, ranging from Seed Heritage to Country Road to Witchery, great Australian designs to complement any revived classics. Detailed descriptions and tags are available on my Instagram @Sixty_is_the_new_40 page – locations for the shoots featured above are at home and at The Loft in the Mill, Olinda.

By now, my male readers are losing interest as we all know, most of them love the feminine form to be displayed with very little left to the imagination. Do not fear, my good chaps, we will not be wearing shapeless cheesecloth and caftans covering every inch of our female form. We are simply leaving more to the imagination, in a classier style. Move over burlesque, fabulously elegant is back.

From trend-setting leather and suede trousers to snug blazers, to comfy coats, wear it with panache. Confidence is feeling fabulous.

Cheers to the good life and to all the amazing people in our lives…happy autumn or spring, wherever you may be – just choose happy!

Ever had a dream within a dream? It could be amazing or a nightmare. I guess Freud would have had an explanation for it but I believe our subconscious manifests our dreams, feeding on our fears, expectations, and, I am told by some, flashbacks from past lives. One could lose your marbles trying to debate which is which, so, I prefer to dissect dreams and turn them to my advantage. Got to stay positive, right?

While contemplating how to spend the Easter weekend, starting with Good Friday, a message from my sister appeared on Whatsapp, and it just seemed so apt:

The Irony of Life: it takes sadness to realise what happiness means, chaos leads to appreciating silence, and absence leads to the value of presence. Food for thought.

Don’t get lost in love – stay true to you and if love is worthy it will stay. I wish I could say this to folks on the train, when I cannot help but overhear their conversations. Okay, I do have great hearing and find it intriguing. Mia culpa!

One such conversation, a while back, took place between two thirty-something women. One was advising the other on the way she always fell in love. It seemed the one telling her story was compromising and not always showing her authentic self. This reminded me of what a classic actress once said about being divorced so often, the fact that men went to bed with one of her sexy, romantic characters, then seemed disappointed when they woke up with her.

I believe this is something many of us are or have been guilty of. Is it because we don’t think our true self is good enough? One of the many things I like about ageing is a better understanding of what makes me happy and who I am. We need to appreciate who we are. Finding too many flaws? We are the masters of our souls. We are good enough. If someone makes us feel like we are not their first choice, smile, shake hands, and walk away.

I see plenty flirtations on social media. Many of these people are married or in a committed relationship. Why does the grass always seem greener on the other side? Often, it’s simply because we are not watering our own lawn. If we treat our loved ones as if they don’t matter, they will behave as if they don’t matter.

Enough with the agony column, on with what was a much-deserved long weekend!

I believe long weekends are sent to rejuvenate us when we need it the most. I plan weekends and cherish at least one quiet day to regroup, potter, listen to music, and have peace.

It is a privilege to have my adorable little family nearby. Nothing is more joyful than watching kiddos hunt for those sweet delights, getting hyper-active on all that chocolate, then crashing early when Mom and Dad are in need of a respite, bliss, I’m told.

My pixies are lucky as they have a balanced upbringing, with plenty crafting to develop their imagination, reading, outdoor activities and occasionally, a movie to get them to relax before bed. I got my fix of plenty hugs, delicious food I did not have to prepare, bubbles, chocolates, great company, giggles and catching up with my adored family and their friends on Sunday. I sang in the car all the way home as it made my heart soar, these precious moments in time!

I did not hunt for Easter eggs but as my lovely neighbours are away, I’m collecting fresh eggs daily from their chooks, as those hens get all my leftover scraps. A fair deal, I’d say… but I must also mention how fond I’ve become of those feathered darlings. We have lively conversations.

Dining pleasures

After the lengthy forced abstinence from dining out, namely lockdown, my friends and I are making up for lost time. Things we took for granted for too long are now so much appreciated. Just being in the company of caring friends who support each other, is now a treasured occasion. Thank you Covid, you got something right…

Whenever I venture to the Mornington Peninsula, sweet friend Rika takes me on a grand tour of the beautiful surrounds as a prelude to lunch. So, when she visits to explore more of the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, I am more than happy to return the favour as I love this region of plenty.

Our recent lunch at the Healesville Hotel was scrumptious and we opted for the alfresco experience, dining under the trees and umbrellas on a perfect late-summers day.

The thinly beer-battered, generous portions of fish, chips, duck croquettes, crab and avocado salad, washed down with some local Yarra Valley bubbles, were sensational.

Pictured above, clockwise, from top left: avocado and crab salad, beer-battered fish and chips, outdoor dining, the road to Healesville, and the duck croquette at The Healesville Hotel.

The drive back to my village, through the back of Healesville, past the Tarrawarra Art Museum and vineyards, green pastures, paddocks with healthy livestock and rolling hills, where kangaroos usually appear before sunset, proved yet another sweet distraction and we agreed, we were both ready to address life head-on again.

Did I mention alpacas are also popular livestock here? When they are not actively bred for their luxuriously soft wool, they also serve a vital purpose, protecting lambs from foxes, as alpacas stomp and foxes are not stupid.

On another occasion, we took one of my favourite drives in the world, up there with Big Sur in California, Chapman’s Peak in Cape Town, and the Garden Route of South Africa, Mount Dandenong Road to the charming village of Olinda on top of the mountain.

Dudley’s in Olinda was buzzing with good cheer and the delicious mezze and sizzling haloumi cheese with olive paste did not disappoint. In fact, we loved the Helen’s Hill bubbles served with our meal so much, we traversed back to the Yarra Valley to purchase a few bottles from their cellar door, which is not far from where I live.

Another delectable lunch with my South African tribe living in Melbourne was at The Beach Café in Seaford. My BBQ Ocean Prawn salad was simply delicious. Pity they are not licensed but they are working on it, I’m told.

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During my recent visit to the Peninsula, I revisited The Rocks in Mornington, which is great value. You can’t find a better seaside location, right up there with The Baths in Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula.

The Rocks restaurant overlooks the yacht basin of Mornington and is conveniently situated in the Yacht Club. This just always brings back happy memories of my teens, when I lived in a sailing community overlooking an estuary in South Africa.

Again, the food and service at The Rocks were sterling and the conversation effervescent between three good friends. Nothing beats bonding further over a delicious meal, sipping something heavenly and savouring a panoramic vista.

My linguini marinara was laden with plump prawns and succulent mussels. The chef even obliged by omitting the tomato at my request. We’ll be back!

Dining at Bond Store in South Bank in Melbourne proved a less enjoyable experience with my friends, though. An extremely rude waitress with a French accent put a dampener on our lunch.

However, the manager was extremely apologetic and compensated generously for his staff member’s bad service and shocking attitude. I’d give the restaurant another go as I believe regular staff are now returning to their old posts as Job Keeper has run its Covid course. It’s a charming location in the city, close to the Yarra River, where old architecture meets modern skyscrapers in this still most liveable city.

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I know I’ve mentioned my neighbours owning a dream wedding event destination, surrounded by verdant vineyards, rose gardens and a lake in a previous, in fact several, blogs. Last year was a disaster for that industry because of the lengthy lockdown, as we know only too well, but it is heartening to see business picking up again.

On weekends, when there is no wedding party in progress, Immerse, in the Yarra Valley, is open for lunch to the public – always good to make a reservation as the food is fabulous and the restaurant is popular.

What I love about Helen and Stephen Myles, is not only are they good friends, they seemingly read my mind too. I was indecisive as everything on the menu was calling my name! So, they suggested we order several smaller portions to sample and enjoy between three.

Their bread is a treat, and I’m not a lover of bread! Served with the chef’s choice of dip, olives, parmesan oil and Murray River salt flakes, it is pure sour-dough heaven.

We relished the confit duck arancini with pear and fig relish, parmesan, pickled vegetable salad and pomegranate; the chorizo and manchego croquette, chickpea, corn, roast pepper salad and smoked paprika aioli hit the spot; and the kuro prawns, soba noodles, edamame, radish, cucumber, coriander, roast sesame dressing and renkon proved a sensation.

I’m no longer a dessert fan but again, my arm was twisted easily and sharing the lemon meringue tart with passionfruit sorbet, blood orange puree and yuzu syrup, plus blueberry cheesecake with lychee, cream and glass shards, as well as a sinful chai and almond panna cotta with vanilla tuille, coconut and mango sorbet with pistachio crumble, proved the perfect finale to a superb experience.

Of course, I’ve always been a fan of Immerse Sparkling Chardonnay and I was not shy to indulge on this day, again…I did find the energy to report my experience on TripAdvisor as it was the very least I could do after such a glorious spoil. Then I had a late afternoon snooze…

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Dining at Immerse in the Yarra Valley, pictured clockwise, from top left: views of the gardens from the restaurant, setting up for a wedding dinner, raspberry cheesecake, and a symphony of flavours in: confit duck arancini with pear and fig relish, parmesan, pickled vegetable salad and pomegranate; kuro prawns, soba noodles, edamame, radish, cucumber, coriander, roast sesame dressing and renkon; and chorizo and manchengo croquette, chickpea, corn, roast pepper salad with smoked paprika aioli.

On the couch

So many choices of sofa bingeing and when in doubt, I tend to return to old favourites as I’m looking for a happy ending, just common old feel-good viewing of a story that feels like a comfortable blanket, almost like a home-made quilt, not always perfect but cosy. Sabrina, starring Harrison Ford, Julia Ormond and Greg Kinnear, is one of those indulgences. I still love the soundtrack too – evergreen.

Speaking of security blankets, How to Make an American Quilt, with the late and forever inspiring Maya Angelo, Winona Rider, Ellen Burstyn, Anne Bancroft and Dermot Mulroney, still gives me that warm, cosy feeling.

Recent releases that have proved enjoyable, with staying power for me, include: The Dig, with the adorable Lilly James and Ralph Fiennes; and Yesterday, again with Lily James, Himesh Patel, featuring Ed Sheeran in a cameo role. Sanjeev Bhaskar and Meera Syal, both from a British sitcom I used to take great delight in, The Kumars at No. 42, are good value, as always. Get ready for sweet, happy tunes to get good memories flowing. Especially if you are old enough to remember The Beetles, (chuckle).

Sleeping Beauty

Health, beauty and fashion cannot be ignored as, after all, it is the very essence of my expanding Instagram following. It simply goes to show starting a hobby with stuff we are passionate about, we will be rewarded, somehow.

One of the many rewards is the support and inspiration most of the Insta tribe members I interact with offer each other. It is a joy and, especially during these trying times of lockdowns, illness and struggles, they are there for each other. So many people get lonely and sad, and this is a great way to offer some solace, albeit from a distance.

One of the many thrills of my Sixty_is_the_new_40 page is the fact that I get to collaborate with some incredible people, who produce superb skin and beauty products, not to mention glamorous fashion!

I wish to remain authentic and will not test, wear or promote anything unless I have tried it for a while – or the design fits my form. If it does not come up to par, I will report this to the product representatives.

The highly professional and courteous publicist for i-On Skincare contacted me several weeks ago. We negotiated and now, after having put the Age Disrupting Skin Cream and Age Disrupting Total Performance Eye Cream to the test, I am delighted to share the news of my rejuvenated skin.

Featuring DII technology, a proprietary age-disrupting technology that safely removes excess iron from the skin to prevent formation of free radicals, which produce lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity and uneven skin tone, commonly known as ageing skin, I’m now convinced @iOnskincare is delaying the ageing process in my skin.

Founded by Dr Xi Huang, one of the world’s leading researchers on the correlation between iron levels and health, the publicist informed me the product would reduce the appearance of wrinkles rapidly.

The range contains the latest scientifically advanced anti-ageing ingredients, whilst it also, in the case of the Eye Cream, reduces dark circles under the eyes. After several weeks of using the products continuously, I see a visible improvement in my skin and am in total agreement with these claims.

Key ingredients include: De-ironizing Inducer (D.I.I.) – a blend of reducing agents, such as vitamin C, and high buffering capacity clearing agents, such as pearl powder, which removes excess iron from ferritin in the skin to prevent the formation of free radicals; Key Peptides – includes acetyl tetrapeptide-11, which helps skin look and feel healthier, and tetrapeptide-9, which restores the skin’s natural support system and stimulates collagen production for smoother, firmer skin; Portulaca Oleracea Extract – a herb with anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties to benefit sensitive and/or allergy-prone skin; Different Molecular Weights of Sodium Hyaluronate – two super-charged forms of skin-replenishing hyaluronic acid formulated to provide deeper and longer-lasting hydration; and Fucus Vesiculosus Extract – a heme oxygenase-1 inducer, which acts to degrade hemoglobin, thereby reducing dark circles.

After the first application, I awakened with my skin tingling, but in a good way. I knew I’d not see results after one night but checked in the mirror anyway. No rash, no allergy, a great start.

I can honestly say that after several weeks of applying the eye and skin cream daily, my skin seems plumper, and the fine lines I’ve been dreading seem to have gone undercover!

I highly recommend @iOnskincare and would happily continue using it. We all say age is just a number, and to defy it, not deny it. So, for now, this over-sixty gal is feeling extremely lucky as my skin is positively glowing.

See more at www.ionskincare.com – tell them Sixty_is_the_new_40 sent you! You’ll thank me later…

 

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In the mix

Autumn is slowly winding her way through the final throes of summer and I could not be happier. Layers, mixing, matching, not working up a sweat, totally my thing!

I’ve always enjoyed autumn colours as they are warm and seem to complement my skin. However, I’ve had such encouragement from my Insta fashion gang about wearing pastels and pink, I’m clinging to it as there is no rule for colour and seasons. I’m loving the jewel colours coming into the fold again, gone for so long, and I even see some of those colours reflected by the fashionistas across the waters, now entering spring.

Someone recently said, the trick was to be the trend, not to follow the trend. I like that as I believe we should wear what brings us joy. To many of us, clothes are an extension of our personality as well as a mood-changer. When we feel good, we act good.

Dressing for oneself is so much more rewarding than dressing for others. One of the many things I love about ageing, I don’t care what others think of me. I know who I am, I know what makes me happy, and I try to avoid anything or folks who make me unhappy. Simple. Easy.

So, cheers to us owning who we are, and cheers to a good life, darlings, we only live once…twice, if we are really lucky!