Anji’s Picks: Monthly Faves
Everytime I sit down to compile a month of my favourite things; eats, drinks, reads and local spots, I’m reminded of just how fast this year is flying by! In amongst all the chaos of work, family commitments and for some people-buying or selling a home, it’s more important than ever to find those little things that bring you joy throughout the day.
I love finding new ways to make each day a little special, whether that’s trying out a new recipe, popping on a great album or grabbing lunch at my favourite local eatery. So, here are a few of my favourite things from the past month, to hopefully inspire you…
Fave Drink…
Over winter this has been a robust take on the Classic Negroni, changing the Gin out for Diplomático Rum. I had read about this modern take on a cocktail classic in a magazine, and now often choose it over the traditional for its heartiness and rich colour. Check out the recipe above to make one yourself!
Fave Eat…
It can be easy to get stuck in a rotation of the same 3-4 meals that suit everyone’s dietary requirements when cooking dinner, but there are so many fabulous recipes out there, maybe even hiding in your old magazine collection. I have taken to flicking through my old magazines and taking pics of recipes that grab my eye and after testing a few on the family so far, I can confirm there have been several winners!
Fave Listen & Watch…
There’s something about having a good TV show on the go that can make the evenings so comforting and special. We’ve made it through several great seasons of programming over Winter, but our favourites would have to be Slow Horses and Bad Sisters, both of which are available through Apple TV.
In terms of tunes, I’ve been loving Justin Bieber's recent release, SWAG, and have been delving into some good ol’ tunes from REM and Smashing Pumpkins for some nostalgic vibes. Bonus points when listening on vinyl for that extra nostalgia!
Fave Local Spot…
Saigon Taste is my hands down go to in Winter, with their rare beef pho, prawn summer rolls and noodle salad all being enjoyed. They are handily located midway between the Lowe&Co office and my home office, and the friendly staff and wholesome food keep me coming back time and time again.
Fave Interior Design Trend…
This is not a new trend, but an interior design style that is always timeless is the combination of old and new pieces in a space.
As someone who loves a variety of different furniture and decor styles and eras of design, the collection of pieces that we’ve accumulated for our home over time come from a variety of different spots. Antique stores, op shops and curated mid-century resale stores can often stock some of the most unique and special pieces that you’ll treasure for a lifetime, and won’t break the bank!
Whilst it would be amazing to fully furnish a home from your favourite design store, the best way to bring personality, warmth and timeless appeal into a home is through the use of old and new.
Fave Read…
This is perhaps my guiltiest pleasure, and not a particularly cheap one at that, but if I spot a new NZ House&Garden, HOME, Homestyle or Your Home & Garden I struggle to not add it to my cart! This past weekend I flicked through tens on old mags for recipes (see earlier fave), so whilst my investment in magazines is not small, they are a resource that I return to often, so cost per flick is probably quite modest. At least that’s what I tell Jason!