From the editor: December in the East
Last year on Christmas Day I arose from a food coma at about 5pm to take the dog for a walk. It had been a cold and overcast day, our attempts at a family Christmas beach swim at Coogee thwarted by blustery winds and splashes of rain. Still, it was the perfect weather for roast turkey.
By 5pm the afternoon began to clear. Patches of sunlight peeked through the clouds and the winds dropped. As I walked around the neighbourhood I noticed something you don’t see that often: that every few houses the doors were open to the street. You could look into each as you went past, and see what people were doing.
People were having parties. You couldn’t tell if these parties were still going from lunch or if new parties were starting for early dinners, but a feeling of warmth and happiness emanated from all. Although there were many celebrations, I was struck by an overwhelming sense of togetherness and harmony.
What a privilege is it to live in the East. Aside from being one of the most beautiful places in the world, it is a pocket rich with community spirit. Although we often live on top of each other, or squeezed into tight streets, there’s an understanding that we are all in it together; the neighbourhood spirit is strong.
December is all about enjoying the East during the golden period that is summer. From going on coastal walks to dining out in new restaurants, dressing up for the opera or spending a day at the cricket test, there are wonderful experiences to be had on our doorstep. Summer is the best time of the year in Sydney; a great time be out loving life.
So December is about staying local and shopping local, too. The family-owned stores and boutiques on our high streets and in our suburban centres bring texture and richness to neighbourhoods that we should cherish and we support if we can. Check out our Christmas gift guide inside the magazine for some tips.
Merry Christmas. Let’s hope this Christmas Day comes with beach weather, or at the very least a decent party for everyone.