Pastels are a Christmas staple borrowed from our Venezuelan neighbours. It’s a process that only a troop of dedicated persons can entertain and endure. Our kids think it’s an important part of the Christmas celebrations which cannot be dismissed. No home made pastels? Are you mad?

They are 3 and 4 years old and making corn balls, the treks to Paramin to get the treasured banana leaves, the ritual ‘quailing’ of said leaves, cutting strips of twine to wrap the pastels, oily hands, eating un-cooked corn balls, stealing the olives, Granny makes her ponche de creme, eyes are crying as the onions are cut, the leaves are being wiped, simply fun in their eyes, but as far as the adults are concerned, it’s cheap labour. Another tradition in the making. “When are we making pastels – ok then we can’t go to the beach”. Another important date on their calendar.

Tradition adds to a journey – it brings stability to life – it encourages learning, it’s the root of bonding. It is part of who you are.

May your journey be filled with tiny traditions – may you forever be close to your roots.

True Trinis understand the importance of Christmas Lunch. Generally food is our core. Whenever we get together be it for a birthday, anniversary or some small success in life, we eat, we drink and we be merry. Far less for Christmas. We focus on making sure that all of our foodie pleasures are fulfilled.

Christmas lunch therefore is an important element of our celebrations. All family members are invited, are expected to attend no matter what time and no matter how many. We eat, we celebrate, we enjoy each other’s company. It’s truly the most integral part of the Christmas celebrations. It’s the time we get the family together, to bond.

There is laughter, memories, story telling and sometimes, believe it or not, introductions. The family grows, prospers and benefits. Once per year there are no exceptions, no excuses. We get together to celebrate the essence of Christmas – family.

May your family grow together in Christ.