2020 was certainly a year unlike any other. If you’re breathing a huge sigh of relief that it's finally over, you’re in good company. As we look forward to a brand-new year, and one (hopefully) filled with a lot more happiness, we’ve decided to ditch the resolutions altogether and live life to the fullest instead. Here are a few of our favourite ways to start 2021: START A JOURNAL Invest in a new journal that can hold all your ideas, ambitions, book recommendations, recipes, and doodles. Journaling is a great way to keep track of what matters most and give…

IT’S A HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAY! As the festive season draws closer, we’re reminded of gatherings, parties and celebrations with families and friends and how things will be a little different this year. Here are our top tips to keep those spirits high with some creative and innovative thinking: DECORATE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS COOKIES The sweeter, the merrier! Make everything better with cookies decorated by you and your family, that’ll have your home smell delicious and keep any little ones entertained.     CREATE YOUR VERY OWN WINTER WONDERLAND As we scale back our holiday plans, we’ll be spending a lot…

BEFORE YOU EVEN HEAD OUT THE DOOR DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR LIST Just like Santa Claus, make a list and then check it twice. A list helps organise your needs, checking it again will cull unnecessary items so you can stick to your budget. Spoiling yourself every now and then is totally fine too, simply make a note of how much extra you’re prepared to spend and enjoy a little guilt-free indulgence.     TAKE STOCK OF YOUR CUPBOARD Try looking at your cupboard and clothing with a fresh pair of eyes. Personal stylists are brilliant at creating new looks by combining…

2020 has certainly been a rollercoaster! As the end of the year draws ever closer, so too do exams and a big dose of extra stress. After acing those Zoom classes and online assignments, it’s time to prep for those final exams like a pro. EXERCISE BEFORE AND AFTER YOU STUDY We all know how important exercise is in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it also goes a long way in helping our grey matter work harder and smarter too. Science says that exercise has both long and short-term effects on cognition. While taking a jog around the block can…

There’s never been a better time to grow your own food. A home-grown veggie patch is a great way to get outdoors and pass the time (especially with bored kiddos).  Plus, it puts fresh food on the table. What’s not to love? Here’s what you need to know before putting those green thumbs to use:  Veggies need good soil How to tell? Fertile soil is dark in colour, slightly moist to the touch and breaks apart easily. If your soil is sandy, dry, or too compact then it’s a good idea to get growing conditions just right with good quality…

The family braai, birthdays, weddings, baby showers, graduations – all happy occasions put on ice thanks to COVID-19. With lockdown restrictions still in place, one glimmer of good news is that it is possible to celebrate safely and creatively while practising social distancing. Our ‘new normal’ is also inspiring many to be more thoughtful about gifting too. Even without having to cancel a birthday bash or special event, the current situation can feel overwhelming which is all the more reason arranging a small gift for someone you love is a wonderful way to show you care. First up is the…

PAMPER  YOURSELF  WITH  A DIY  SPA  DAY We’re all spending a lot more time at home these days, and that means missing out on some of our much needed ‘me time’ treats. While the reopening of our favourite salons and nail bars is cause for celebration, a little extra pampering never goes wrong (and saves some pennies too).  Here’s how to bring the feeling of a luxury spa to the comfort of your very own bathroom. Just add a few little extras to your shopping list at Mall of the North and you’re good to go!   EXFOLIATE There’s definitely some…

So much has changed since the first case of COVID-19 was diagnosed in South Africa, back in March. As we try to navigate these uncertain and unprecedented times, it’s worth remembering that each of us still has the power to make a difference, however small, in the lives of others. At Mall of the North, we believe that in these times of cancelled plans and social distancing, kindness and compassion are more important than ever before.  In the spirit of coming together safely as a community, here are a few organisations you can support in the fight against the COVID-19…

Of course your mom (and granny) will insist that the greatest Mother’s Day gift is her family, but we know that even the smallest of gestures can go a long way. We’re looking at the silver lining of lockdown and a few of the best DIY ways to say ‘I love you’ to everyone’s favourite lady.  PERSONALISED  RECIPE  BOX One idea for a fabulous child-friendly project is designing mom’s very own personalised recipe box. The best part is you already have the materials on hand like shoe boxes, ribbons, coloured paper, paint and crayons to create a gorgeous one-of-a-kind gift.…

OUR HOW-TO GUIDE ON LOCKDOWN FAMILY FUN While we all do the right thing by staying at home and keeping each other safe we also know that it can be challenging to think of new ways to keep ourselves and our little ones entertained during the nationwide lockdown. Here are some tips to pass the time… EXPLORE THE GREAT INDOORS Without school, homework, and playdates, finding ways to keep the kids occupied can feel like a full-time job. Luckily for us the Scouts have put together a wonderful ‘Explore the Great Indoors Programme’ available here. With over 100 age appropriate…