Every Christmas (and even a few months before), a home on a farm in Wakefield is transformed. Lights twinkle in windows and along the veranda, angels and nativity scenes take their place in the garden, and a caravan is dressed for the season. Inside, trees appear in every corner, Christmas elves get up to their old tricks, and Vikki and Norm Johnston’s home hums with the joyful chaos of family, traditions, and a little bit of magic.
Photos: Tessa Claus
Our story
We’ve been in this house for about 22 years. Our five sons have all left home and now have families of their own. Over the years, we’ve lived in various places on the farm, but as the family grew, we needed more space. Our house was built on what was once an empty paddock, so we started from scratch with both the building and landscaping. Every year I decorate inside and out for Christmas.
The inspiration
I wanted to create something exciting and fun for the family and others to see.
Christmas can be a challenging time for some. It's nice to see the smiles on their faces. For us, it's also celebrating the birth of Jesus, as they say, 'tis the reason for the season!
My decorating style
Country and shabby chic, although at this time of year it's a bit of everything.
Where I shop
Anywhere that sells Christmas things. I also create quite a bit myself. I was lucky to be given some big items from a couple who were downsizing.
I would never part with…
A bell that plays a tune when you pull the cord. It belonged to my grandparents, and as kids we always pulled it when visiting. It's in our entrance way, but quite fragile, it doesn't sound too good now!
Save or splurge?
I save a lot by buying at end-of-year sales. The downside is they get put away until next Christmas. I buy the crackers this way as well but then have to find storage for them and remember where I put them. The village pieces are a splurge, but Norm is on board with that.
If money were no object
I would definitely buy some more Lemax buildings for the Christmas village.
Favourite spots
I love the kitchen, I can see and be a part of everything and all the fun while cooking. Everyone gathers there as well, it's very social. At this time of year, I also have a little caravan that I decorate for Christmas – it’s a lovely place to unwind after a busy day.
Making room for Christmas
The dining, lounge, and living room get rearranged to fit all the trees and decorations in. The other rooms get the excess and then I have to sort through it all when it's time to de-Christmas – I always have Christmas put away by New Year’s.
Every home should have…
Christmas lillies and fairy lights.
A decorating tip
You don't have to spend a lot to make it festive. A few strands of seed or fairy lights in a glass bowl with red beads or wound through greenery can make it festive.
What I love most about decorating
I love seeing the house at night when it’s all lit up, it looks magical. Most of all, I love the joy it brings to people.
Favourite things about Christmas day
Planning the menu for the Christmas lunch. We can have up to 22, including 10 grandchildren. I usually start in November so I can spread out the supply list. Quoits, corn hole or whacky croquet are all played, it’s lots of fun and gets competitive (from the adults).
Best Christmas memory
Listening to the boys sneaking out early on Christmas morning to see what was in their stocking and if Santa had been. Now it's seeing the grandkids excited.
