Living the Legacy

We spoke to people across different schools and generations to understand what keeps educational traditions alive. In the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, schools shape more than academics; they create shared memories, enduring relationships, and a lasting sense of belonging. For many families, these schools are woven into their history, with generations returning because the schools are part of their identity and family life. Some can trace three generations through the same classrooms. Others move back to their...

Our Christmas Haul

Here are a few gift ideas straight from the Fabmags team – enjoy our haul as we bring you the best of the countryside finds for this festive season. Lorinda Scott “If you’re looking for a gift that’s as unique as the person you’re giving it to, I recommend the Netherwood Blueberry Rum Liqueur from Blueberry Café. I find their gins and rums to be so unusual and cool.” @theblueberry_cafe Justin Scott “I guess you...

Pets at Christmas

Muddy Paws, Festive Furballs & Holiday Mischief! Christmas cheer isn’t just for the humans – as trees go up, delicious food goes in the oven, and decorations (accidentally) fall off the tree – our furry family members are right in the middle of the festive fun. Whether it’s muddy farm adventures, unplanned “singing”, stolen snacks, or simply sitting in the middle of the fireplace like royalty, these beloved pets bring their own kind of magic...

Merry Meals

We are pleased to share three hearty and fun Christmas recipes from renowned chef Jackie Cameron. Give these a try if you’re out of ideas or need some inspiration. Here’s to merriment and joy for this festive season! Stoney Ginger Beer, Fresh Peach & Cherry Glazed Dargle Christmas Ham Ingredients: 2kg “Dargle Valley Meat” – Gammon Ham (Bone-out) For the Glaze: 150g butter, salted 300g treacle brown sugar 90ml Dijon mustard 3 cups Stoney Ginger...

Living in the Moment

We always keep our ears to the ground when it comes to outstanding community members, and we want to give a shout-out to one such member, Kate-Marie Butlin, a woman, mother, an avid trail runner, and business owner, who is proud to be building a successful life here in our neck of the woods. Meet Midlands-born mom and businesswoman, Kate-Marie Butlin. She has been shaped by small-town life in the best of ways and is...

Summer Magic

Celebration mode commences at this time of year, with public events, markets, and live performances – making the most of the extra daylight. These balmy weeks provide the perfect backdrop for everything that makes this part of the world daydream-worthy, with many opportunities to witness the drama of summer unfolding in nature. Here’s how to enjoy the season without the midday scorch: Early Morning Adventures  Sunrise Zip-linings For those who like a dash of adrenaline...

Celebrating 15 years of Cascades Lifestyle Centre

This year marks a special occasion for Cascades Lifestyle Centre in Pietermaritzburg because they’re celebrating their 15th birthday. This is a proud milestone for the centre, which had its humble beginnings as a small nature-inspired shopping destination with only a few shops. But, over the years, it blossomed into what it is today, a “lifestyle hub” with a rich combination of all things retail, wellness, dining, and community. “Cascades has always been about connection –...

Top Interior Picks From Your Local Decorators

Designing your dream home can be thrilling, but what if you want a space that truly stands the test of time? Amanda Kelly, Head Residential Interior Designer at Tracy Kelly Design, says the ‘gin stool‘ is her go-to piece for adding charm to a room. Small but full of character, it sits perfectly beside an antique chair, sofa, or even a bath. Its ease of movement creates height and visual interest while filling those awkward...

Spruce Up Your Space

If your interiors are feeling a little lacklustre, read below for some tips, tricks, and trends from one of our local décor store owners. We asked Hannah Keppler, owner of The Ruby Orchard in Howick, for her recommendations on seasonal décor tips and tricks. But if that’s not really your focus, there are also a few more timeless trends you can incorporate in your interior spaces. With over a decade in the running, The Ruby...

Introducing Robert Howes and His Fascinating New Book, Sevens

  Robert Howes, a resident of Howick, has unveiled his eagerly anticipated debut book, Sevens: An Exploration of Human Psychological Development and Growth, a compelling work of non-fiction that delves into the intricacies of human psychology and personal evolution. This meticulously researched publication proposes an interesting speculation: that human beings are conditioned to undergo transformative psychological changes every seven years, akin to the profound metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Howes expertly guides readers through...