I’m writing this because I think there may be others of you feeling homesick right now. I can’t believe that I haven’t been ‘home’ to Malta in over 18 months. In fact, the last time I was there I was 7 months pregnant with Noah.
I’m desperate to take him to meet all the family and to show him his routes – he’s half Maltese after all! Family is so important to me and although they may be a flight away they are always close to my heart. I have so many happy memories growing up in Malta; swimming with my cousins in the sea, having lunch at the my grandparents with the whole tribe every Sunday. We are such a close network.
Prior to COVID my auntie still carried on the tradition of an ‘open door’ on a Wednesday. I remember this as a child – Tables from different rooms would be pushed together, a mix of random stools and chairs placed under them. A mish mash of cutlery and crockery – And a great big pot of something homemade and scrummy in the middle of the table for family to tuck into. Anyone from the family welcome. I remember my aunties, uncles and cousins all piling round the table. Everyone talking over each other and waving their arms as they did (the Maltese way!). There was also always a big bottle of table wine. Sometimes I was aloud a drop with lemonade mixed in.
I remember my dad was always the comedian. He always had a funny tail to tell and would have everyone roaring with laughter. I remember his red cheeks after a glass of wine and the sparkle in his eye. I wish I could close my eyes and be transported back to these times. I’m looking forward to a time we can sit round that table again – this time with Noah running around our feet demanding to have a taste from everyone’s plate (even though the we were all eating the same).
I’d love to hear about one of your favorite childhood memories or a tradition that has carried on through your adult life…
