HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2009-12-24, Page 16In a rich and fulfilling life,
highlighted by a long and blessed
marriage that included the births of
six children, Audrey Cardiff (1996
Citizen of the Year for Brussels and
area) has built a wealth of Christmas
memories.
It is difficult to believe that this
energetic, youthful woman has lived
the decades she has. That they have
passed quickly is as certain for her,
however, as the fact that time hasn’t
slowed the years in any way.
“As Jack and I are in our twilight
years now, time seems to fly. It
seems but a blink of an eye and
another Christmas is here.”
Looking back Cardiff said she
feels blessed by the many good and
happy Christmases they have had
with family and friends.
Her earliest memories, however,
conjure different Christmases where
many of the luxuries of today didn’t
exist. “We didn’t have hydro or
many of the things we think are
necessities now. We were poor, but
there were lots of people around us.”
The circle seldom changed with
aunts, uncles and cousins gathering
each year to celebrate together thistime of family and blessings. “We cooked a goose that we raisedon the farm and always hadChristmas pudding. We would get anorange and some nuts andhomemade candy in our stockings.”
Cardiff said the day was always
full of excitement, especially when
the gathering was held at her aunt’s
who lived 10 miles away. “We
travelled by sleigh pulled by a team
of horses and we were covered up
with blankets.We would have dinner
at noon and supper at night and the
trip home always sticks in my mind.
I remember lying on the sleigh and
looking up at a sky that had a million
stars that seemed to surround us like
a canopy of diamonds.”
Such beautiful memories of course
continued to be created after
marrying Jack, then eventually with
their children.
It was then, with her mother
crippled by arthritis, that Cardiff
began hosting the family Christmas
at their farmhouse.
“It was different then. Santa
brought our children one gift each
and everyone was so happy because
there were cookies and candy, lots of
food, and of course, always
Christmas pudding.”
For many years the honour of
making the Christmas pudding and
rich sauce went to Cardiff’s aunt.
“But when she wasn’t able to I
learned to make it.”
Now with their children grown
and married, with families of their
own, the Cardiffs feel blessed to
have their family gather at the
farmhouse, something that has
continued for over 50 years. “It is so
interesting to have extended family,
with different cultures joining us and
making memories. Extra food is
brought by family. We have singing,
skating and lots of food — turkey,
the trimmings, dessert and always
Christmas pudding.”
An excellent cook and baker,
whose culinary talents are known
throughout the community, Cardiffloves spending her time in thekitchen for the Christmas gathering,content to watch while the familyvisits. “I find looking back over theyears my happiest memories areseeing and hearing our children and
grandchildren enjoying each other’s
company. There is such a feeling ofgratitude for all the love and healthby God’s grace we’ve been givenover the years.”“Hopefully, we’ll be able tocelebrate yet another Christmas withfriendship, fun, lot of food, and
always Christmas pudding.”
PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009.Family, food, fun and always the Christmas pudding
Family time
It wouldn’t be Christmas for Brussels 1996 Citizen of the
Year Audrey Cardiff without having the family home for a
holiday feast. Granddaughter Andrea is home for a visit just
in time to help her prepare. (Bonnie Gropp photo)
Working it off
With all of the good food prepared for the Cardiff family at
Christmas renting the arena for a bit of skating and hockey
is not just family fun, but helps get rid of some of those
holiday calories. (Bonnie Gropp photo)
Over the past few years, the use of candles in the home has greatly increased — and
so has the number of fires caused by candle misuse. The Ontario fire service offers
the following tips for the safe use of candles.
Secure your candles in sturdy holders and, if possible, place glass chimneys or
shades on them. Keep lit candles out of the reach of children and pets. and well away
from any combustible materials. An unattended candle is an invitation to disaster, so
don't forget to snuff out your candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
Remember to keep all matches and lighters out of the sight and reach of children.
Have a safe and Merry Christmas
Fire Chief Murray McArter
Brussels Fire Department
ZAHND REAL ESTATE LTD.
BROKERAGEListowel
Claude Robin
Broker
519-887-6205
Kurt Keller
Sales Representative
519-236-7874www.zahnd.on.ca
Merry Christmas
Before we close on another year
We’d like to list our best wishes here.
Along with appreciation and gratitude, too
For each and every one of you.
We’d like to join you and your family, in singing His praises,
as we share the spirit of this holy season.
BORRMANN'S GARAGE
Cty. Rd. 12 (near Diesel Car Diner)
RR #1 Bluevale 519-335-3857
14 Orchard Drive, Brussels
Thank you for your support in our
first few months in business.
Merry Christmas
from
By Bonnie Gropp
The Citizen