Young family homeless and apart after fire engulfs their Canterbury home
Solo mother of four Bonnie Montgomery lost everything when a fire destroyed her Eyrewell home just on Saturday evening.
They were left with just the clothes on their back, and had been forced to split up. The two youngest children were staying with their mum at a Kaiapoi motel, while the older two children were staying with friends.
Being cooped up in the motel with two toddlers was not ideal, and Montgomery was desperately searching for an affordable rental in the wider Kaiapoi area, where her children were educated.
Montgomery’s sister had set up a Givealittle page to help the family get back on their feet. They had no furnishings, clothing or basic essentials. Friends had also asked for donated items, leaving Montgomery in tears at people’s kindness.
Although losing priceless jewellery gifted by her grandmother, rosary beads from her nana and printed photos of her children when they were babies had been difficult to accept, Montgomery was just thankful her family was safe.
“It could have been worse,” she said.
Potted colour
Express yourself with this artistic dip-dye paint effect using Resene paints. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
Turn downsizing stress into strength
Downsizing can open the door to a new stage of your life that is rich in opportunity. However, it can be a daunting prospect. If you are embarking on a new chapter of life, the thought of shedding familiar possessions can feel even more stressful. This can be true even if the life changes are a good thing, such as a move to somewhere you will love to live.
Once you understand why you have this feeling, you can reframe it as creating a new environment that will support your present life while reminding you of your best experiences.
Click read more for the full article.
Minimalist Design in Apartment Living
Ryman’s Charles Upham Retirement Village resident Di is a former fashion designer, artist and self-confessed shoe hoarder who travels, still paints and has stamped her eclectic minimalist style on her apartment.
She gives us her top 3 design tips on how she’s turned her space into a beautiful home.
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