Family Fun and Festivities: Roller Skating, Braais, and Traditional Foods
Roller skating is more than just a hobby for my family; it's a cherished tradition that brings us together every weekend. Over the years, this low-impact exercise has not only helped my husband and me feel young but also brought our daughter into our circle as a "little sister." Despite some specific limitations, roller skating is something almost anyone can learn to do or enjoy at any age.
Roller Skating and Family Night Out
Each session of roller skating is our weekly family night out. The rink we frequent isn't just about roller skating; it's a hub for different social activities. After the session, we usually head out to enjoy a variety of foods and drinks, often clustered around a main street lined with eateries.
Our family members, all rink rats at heart, have cultivated a vibrant skate family culture. Many of the regular skaters not only frequent the rink but also engage in other activities together, such as backyard BBQs, amusement park trips, camping, and zoo visits. Our youngest regular is around two, and the eldest is in their 80s, showing the inclusivity and appeal of these activities across multiple generations.
Braais and Homemade Delights
A popular social activity in our family is hosting a braai, which is also known as a barbecue in parts of the world outside South Africa. A braai is a traditional way of cooking meat, often done outdoors. Our cooking menu can vary, but it typically includes items like roast pork, pork chops, steak of various kinds, chicken, and lamb, where we stretch our budget. A special treat is boerewors, a spicy sausage that is unique to South Africa.
The flavors of our braais are complemented by a mix of beverages. For me, a sugar-free Coke is the preferred choice. My wife, my son-in-law, and my daughter enjoy a glass of wine each. On rare occasions when my son from Ireland is home, he indulges in a couple of beers. My grandsons prefer water, orange juice, or an apple juice, while my wife often insists on a fresh salad to round out the meal.
Weekend Chores and Family Time
While the weekends do include social activities, they also serve as a time to tackle essential chores. Tasks like mowing the lawn, vacuuming, doing laundry, picking up clutter, and cooking for the week-ahead are typically scheduled in the mornings and early afternoons. We also take care of errands like grocery shopping, banking, and visiting the library. By evening, we gather for some much-needed downtime. We often sit on our front porch glider and chat, or we watch TV and sometimes even enjoy a pizza on a Saturday night, watching a favorite show like Svensk H?llstykke (which is often mistakenly called Svenghouli).
These traditions not only keep us physically active and close-knit but also create lasting memories. Whether it's the sound of wheels gliding on the rink or the scent of grilled meats on a warm evening, our weekends are filled with joy and deliciousness.
Key Takeaways:
Roller Skating: A low-impact exercise that maintains health and brings family together. Braais: Traditional South African meals cooked under the stars. South African Foods: A mix of hearty and delicious dishes for every occasion.