Our experts

EFFIE ZAHOS

Money editor Effie says: “Slowing down a little and enjoying my family. Tying up loose ends so I can stop thinking about what needs to be done. Head home to the Goldie and unwind with barbecues, day-time drinking and going for a dip at Tallebudgera Creek.”

ANN LOVEDAY

Money’s art director Ann says: “I’ll be very happy in the frame, entertaining and feeding pals at home and mixing up my best margaritas. For me there’s a contentment to summer in Sydney, the drone of cicadas, the scent of frangipani, the warmth of the sea and the hustle of a busy home BBQ. Bring it on.”

MARIA BEKIARIS Maria, Money’s deputy editor, says: “Lazy days reading and watching the kids playing in the backyard, catching up with friends and family over a drink or two and late alfresco dinners. I might also indulge in some Netflix binge sessions and hopefully cross off a few things that have been on my to-do list since last January.”

BOB CHRISTENSEN Bob, Money’s senior sub-editor, says: “After all the rushing around, it’s a great opportunity to pause and take stock. Reconnecting with friends and family, if you are lucky enough to be able to do so, is a reminder that in the long run there’s more to life than tinsel and mince pies, although they’re a fun diversion.”

SUSAN HELY Susan, a senior writer at

Money for more than 10 years, says: “I’m looking forward to my oldest daughter camping with us at the Woodford Folk Festival. Early morning or late afternoon dips in the clear blue sea with friends. Reading Helen Garner’s True

Stories. Simple food: ripe mangoes, cherries from Tasmania, peaches.”

SHARYN MCCOWEN Sharyn is Money’s online content producer. She says: “A road trip west, Christmas celebrations that are big on family and low on stuff, Nerf

Wars with my husband and nephews, my mum’s exquisite trifle, and time to tick off the remainder of my goals for 2017 before 2018 arrives.”