Festive Memories

Christmas is a very special part of the year as family and friends get a chance to get together.Its a time of sharing, eating and basically having fun.Having lived abroad away from family for several years returning home and experiencing family traditions was amazing.Living in South Africa makes Christmas even more special with our warm sunny weather.
My favourite Christmas memory was in 2011.At the end of 2010 , my dad was diagnosed with cancer.It was a tough journey for him as well as our close knit family.Dad was an only child, hence making our extended family our close family.
Over the festive period of 2011, our home was filled with our family and friends who had all travelled from all over South Africa to spend time with Dad and us.On Christmas Day our home was bursting at the seams with loved ones who wanted to share this day with us.Dad was home from the hospital.My aunts cooked food that was enough to feed to armies and included curries, roasts, desserts and pasta dishes.Even the paramedics who came to see Dad were given food to takeaway for their meals .No family gathering is complete without a few drinks.Keeping it very local we had Mainstay Cane with Cream Soda a very local SA drink perfect for Summer.
It was heartening having our family surround Dad and us on this special day, one we will never forget.A few days later on 1st January 2012 , Dad gave up his battle with Cancer.Family all over SA had to make journeys back to Durban.The festive season will never be the same for us as a family but we have wonderful memories to remind us of Dad and our family.And yes there will always be an empty seat at the table and silent tears. A heart that is loved is never forgotten.