Ed’s Letter: Naomi Larkin welcomes in the New Year.

We have a family tradition of making New Year’s resolutions, sharing them in one sitting and debating the virtues or otherwise of each person’s intentions. One sister routinely trots out the desire to “be more organised”, which is scoffed at because she is one of the most organised people on the planet. Get fit, revamp the spare bedroom/ garage/kids’ playroom and read more books are hardy annuals. Occasionally there are surprises. In 2011 the other sister resolved to learn the ukulele. I was openly doubtful, derisive even, but I had to eat my words when she mastered it the following year – there’s even a YouTube video of her in a ukulele flash mob strumming her heart out to Midnight Special. By the time you read this January issue summer will be in full swing, holidays will be here and you’ll be gearing up for the New Year. Likely you’ll be making resolutions of your own and undoubtedly some of those will revolve around your house and garden. We’ve worked hard to provide lots of inspiration and ideas that hopefully will galvanise you into action.

Our Food section is a perfect match for the season with delicious seafood (page 120) and stone fruit recipes (page 128) you’ll want to try. Plan your year ahead with our selection of calendars, diaries and more (page 21). The Special Feature (page 141) is packed with tips and new products to help you finally get your dream bathroom and laundry. And, if it’s a different holiday you’re after, check out our update of festivals around the world worth visiting (page 160).

Lynne Hammond’s solid resolve, along with her appetite for renovation and eye for a bargain, are behind her show-stopper Blenheim home. Oh, and her husband Rob’s willingness to go along for the ride. Lynne has transformed their homestead, built in the late 1800s, into a treasure trove packed full of history and heart (page 26). You have the chance to visit this French-inspired beauty, our Home of the Month, as part of the NZ House & Garden House Tours (see page 118 for details). When Grant Allan and Adrienne Hewitt bought their 2ha block of Masterton farmland it was “just a paddock”. Now, 25 years later – thanks to their patience, persistence and hard work – it has become a magical garden with everything from cherry and tōtara trees to vegetables and wildflowers (page 100).

I’m feeling good about 2020. Perhaps this is the year when I finally crack my childhood resolution: to make my bed every day… Happy New Year.