Dear reader

Ismiled when I read the caption for the photo on page 40 (taken in the Diceys’ container home in Wolseley): “cushions and covers by Tannie Elmarie”. Just like that, with no surname – like Princess Diana. Like a celeb. And I’m sure Tannie Elmarie is just as well-known and loved.

Tannie Elmarie sounds to me like one of a kind, and don’t we all need a ‘Tannie Elmarie’ in our lives? In my case it was Tannie Anna, who has sadly been gone for many years…

When my mom (Tannie Anna’s youngest sister) was at a loss, she’d always say: “Call Tannie Anna”. From green fig jam with too-thin syrup to planning the tombola table for the church fête. And boy, could she crochet! Spanish doll-type covers for the toilet brush. She never dropped a stitch and none of her cakes ever fell flat. Well, not that I know of…

Tannie Anna was also extremely strict; my tongue was on occasion sprinkled with pepper because I had allegedly “cursed”. I think the worst word I ever used in her presence was “blerrie”. And my mouth blerrie burned, let me tell you! (Sorry, Tannie Anna.)

As I sit here writing my editor’s letter, I’m super excited about this issue. Johané’s food – all made with lemons and limes – is a ray of sunshine on page 116. Just in time for spring, and at a time when we could all do with some sunshine in our lives.

The Roons’ house on page 16 took my breath away – it has so much detail. From the photo screen on page 18 to the kitchen with its pizza oven (I really want one!) – everything is just lovely.

But the container homes on pages 38 and 46 are the pièce de résistance. Our September issue is traditionally when we feature alternative building methods, eco plans, recycling – everything that can be described as ‘green’. And it seems that houses built from old shipping containers are going from strength to strength. Just when I thought we had shown every conceivable conversion, along came two new configurations! The Diceys (as mentioned above) created the most beautiful ‘green’ getaway next to their dam, enhanced with curves that make you do a double-take. And then there’s the Eco Coconut in George. So beautiful and spacious! Both are rented out as accommodation, so if you’re keen to find out what it’s like to live in a container, check in! I’m definitely going to give it a whirl.

• If you’re busy with an eco project of any kind, write to us and send photos. Meanwhile, enjoy this issue!