WHILE THE KETTLE BOILS

New Zealand Listener, Volume 1, Issue 10, 1 September 1939, Page 11

WHILE THE KETTLE BOILS

Dear Friends, In a little under three months now we will be celebrating New Zealand’s Centennial-symbol of a hundred years of Progress, and the historic birth of a Nation. It is not alone a job for architects, craftsmen, organisers; we, too, have our job of preparing ourselves and our homes for the festive months ahead. The eyes of the world will be on New Zealand during this time, and the hundreds of visitors to the Dominion must carry away with them the happiest memories of New Zealand hospitality and New Zealand people. That is our job-the woman’s job. Let us begin with our homes. Very few households will be without visitors at some period during the Celebrations. First, your house itself. If you can possibly afford to give it a new coat of paint, do so. A spick-and-span exterior will not only please your visitors, but reflect itself in your own outlook. Next, your garden; make every day from now on a working day. Now, is the time to plant most vegetables and all kinds of seasonable flowers. There will be a heavy call on both during this time, and market prices will soar. Apart from this, you will have a bright, glowing garden to greet your visitors. Now step inside the house. The problem here is a more complex one, but don’t despair. To begin with, make an overhaul of your cushions. They are important. Or perhaps a silk lampshade is crying out for a new cover. Curtains, too, are most important accessories. Frilly, attractive curtains can lighten and transform an entire house, Perhaps your kitchen or your bathroom needs a new coat of paint. When you view the finished effect you will have no regrets for the extra expenditure. Have an orgy of cleaning: suites, carpets, furniture, picture frames. Don’t overlook the most. trivial detail. It is all going to add to that polished, spotless effect. With all this behind you, you can turn a free mind to your personal needs, and these are as important as your household chattels. Start a campaign of fitness-you are going to need every ounce of energy in the busy months to come. If you are feeling run down, begin immediately on a good iron tonic. Make a point of internal cleanli-ness-it is a vital essential to health. Start a daily routine of exercises. Keep a watchful eye on your diet. Give your skin and hair the extra care and nourishment they need after the hard winter winds. All this is necessary if you are going to look and feel your best-and your enjoyment actually depends on that. Now, an overhaul of your wardrobe. Set aside the garments that lend themselves to renovation. Get a good fashion book and pick out some attractive styles. If you can’t do the job yourself, get the help of your local dressmaker. You'll be surprised at the number of second bests that a little wangling will transform into a new outfit. On the question of pennies, get the children to start saving now for the amusements at the Exhibition. They will want to be in the fun, and a few shillings saved is going to help a long way. Next week I am going to give you some hints for renovating your home, improving your appearance, and freshening up your wardrobe. In the meantime I am giving you a motto-Be prepared! Cordially yours,

Cyanthia