veryone who knows me knows I am an unapologetic Christmas tragic. I love it all, from the cutest kindergarten pageant, to the campiest Christmas panto (thanks, years in London and English husband). I still get(watch it every year), giggle over Will Ferrell in(Boxing Day must-see), and Bing, Ella and Mariah (and now Jimmy Barnes, page 58) are on high-rotation on my Christmas playlist. For everyone who loves Christmas, this issue of – and our TV special on Network Ten (page 10) – has been created to inspire and delight. You’ll find everything you need for your best Christmas ever, starting with a beautiful table (page 138), and delicious feasts to put on top of it (my hot tip is the Smoky Bacon Stuffing Rolls on page 195). We’ve put together menu plans to make your big day even easier (page 162) and our style team have selected gifts for everyone on your list (page 110) – some for under $10. And, for all us craft nerds, the DIY decorations will add a whimsical charm to your home – they’re simple and use recycled materials, too (page 142). But Christmas can also be a lonely time, especially for those separated from loved ones, or celebrating with an empty place at the table. For Ellidy Pullin, who lost beloved partner Chumpy, Christmas is an opportunity to create new and happy memories with their daughter, Minnie (page 64). Our experts have some excellent tips to help you survive those Christmas grinches of high expectation and disappointment (page 108) and, if all else fails, have a laugh with Julia Morris (page 74), or disappear for a few minutes with a delightful Christmas tale, written exclusively for us by Di Morrissey (page 238).
