14 years ago,23 December 1997,
I started a tradition with one votive
on my kitchen window sill.
It was the same day my father passed away very suddenly and unexpected.
without planning, it grew from there.
Every year I put out votive candles collected over time and invite any one visiting around this time and the following Christmas days, to light their own in memory
of loved ones,family, friends, even pets,
near or far,alive or passed away..
to remember.
At the beach house we use the mantel for this..
over the years we have added more little votive holders and they differ in color and size, but the tradition all ways part of our Noel
at home in Stellenbosch we have a long narrow altar table where these little bougies are en masse.
the flickering of the candle flame is a moment of
remembrance, alive in thoughts
it is very special to do and a gift I love to share..
This has become a tradition our family and friends have taken away with them and now do where ever they are, and once again passing it on...
All is welcome to share in our tradition,
please do......
My blogger friends and readers out there will be remembered on this altar table this Christmas.Thank you for your friendship and following
Blessings to you
Colette X
Thank you Colette, I wish you a very happy Christmas time with your family
ReplyDeleteand a happy start of the New Year 2012
Hugs
Cecilia
What a lovely idea Colette and it also looks so pretty
ReplyDeleteenjoy the time with your family and thankyou for all your lovely things
Love fayxxx
Beautiful post, Col, and while I am sorry for the loss of your Father at this time of year you have made a beautiful tribute to him through your votives....all best wishes...bonnes fetes~
ReplyDeleteUnas fotografias maravillosas llenas de magia!
ReplyDeleteFelices Fiestas!
Veronica
Oh what a beautiful tradition. Happy Christmas to you and your family, sweet Colette. A-M xx
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely, thought provoking tradition you have begun. Your dear father is smiling down on his child, I am certain!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas, beautiful heart!
xoxo
Andie
Dearest Colette,
ReplyDeleteWhat a nobel way to rekindle the memory of your Dear Dad! No better way to do that as with a candle... Keep those flames burning, also in your heart. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and cherish the fond memories!
Love,
Mariette
Such a beautiful tradition Colette and a thoughtful way of including loved ones passed in your holidays. I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas Season!
ReplyDeleteXO
Debra
This is a lovely tradition and a beautiful way to include and pay tribute to loved ones that have passed. They are forever in our hearts.
ReplyDeleteColette, I wish you and your family a lovely Merry Christmas and all the joys of the season.
Merry Christmas! XO
So very thoughtful and a wonderful tribute to your father.
ReplyDeleteWishing you a very Happy Christmas.
Leeann x
Merry Christmas my South African blogging friend! Love your thoughtful and meaningful Christmas trimmings. Surrounding yourself with wonderful memories. It is always beautiful over here...thanks for sharing a glimpse of your world! XOXO Trish
ReplyDeleteI ran out last night before the stores closed and purchased 12 votive holders and votives. At midnight we lit each candle and said a prayer. You have helped me start a new tradition and I love you for it!
ReplyDeletexoxo
Andie
I love this tradition Col....such a special idea and a wonderful way to remember those who are no longer with us..have a good Christmas and a New Year filled with blessings for you and your family...
ReplyDeleteLove and best wishes
Jules
Thank you all and thank you Andie, for you to make this your tradition your's as well...a great gift thank you!!
ReplyDeleteXX Colette
Oh, sweet Collette, this is such a lovely idea...I can certainly see how everyone would want to add a candle to your remembrance collection. Have a lovely holiday at the beach...see you in 2012 !!!
ReplyDeleteColette, this is a wonderful post. I am catching up on my Blogging friends after being away for a while. It is like re-entering a magic world!
ReplyDeleteBless you in SA from across the sea!!
Jacqui xx
Hello Colette
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful tradition you have. My mother died in 1997 also and I share your sorrow. I light candles daily in memory of my loved ones and also when praying for someone.
Your blog I love, I just found you and am your new follower and look forward to your visit.
Helen xx