Lowveld - Dec 2020 / Jan 2021

Johan, Saartjie, Ronel, André and Charl
A family Christmas
Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: BELINDA ERASMUS
After rather an arduous year for many,
it is finally time to deck the halls and
prepare for Christmas. We catch up
with the Breytenbachs - Johan, Ronel,
André and Charl - to find out each
one’s take on the festivities, and what
it means to this Mbombela family to
celebrate together.
“Christmas with the Rooikatte is quite
a busy time. Arriving home after
work, we firmly believe in quality over
quantity time with our loved ones,
and have come to accept that while
others are on holiday, we are still on
the go - this is simply the nature of
our industry. Having said that, when
we do get together, it’s quite an
event,” says Johan.
On December 24, despite being quite
worn out, the family usually meet at
one of their respective homes and
are greeted by little ones who are
anxiously awaiting their presents.
“We build on their excitement by first
getting into the tune of the festivities
by singing a few Christmas songs. Inbetween
we’re snacking on the finger
foods my mother and our wives have
prepared. The favourite among these
is my mother Saartjie’s secret mustard
sauce served with beef tongue (a national champion). One of the brothers
usually takes on the role of Santa Claus, complete with a bell and a bag full of
presents swung over his shoulder. From here on, our main focus is spending
time with the kids and sharing the meaning of Christmas with them.”
Having a business in the liquor industry that all the Breytenbachs are involved
in means that they have to go the extra mile to ensure they have quality family
time. “Due to long work hours, the amount of free time we have for this is
limited,” says Ronel. “We remain a family that values tradition, such as sharing
meals and enjoying one another’s company when we can. When we as the
Agenbags gather, quality time with our children is a priority. With the kids no
longer being little and the youngest completing matric this year, we enjoy
spending time together on the stoep or cooling down in the pool.” During these
get-togethers, the deboned chicken flatties Ronel’s husband, Gerrie, braais are
an all-time favourite, “they are extra juicy!” she laughs.
Served with salads and her mother Saartjie’s hit recipe from her trusted
recipe book, malva pudding and ice cream, the meal is always memorable.
Not forgetting the liquid refreshment, the children love to experiment with
cocktails. “They are so eager for us to try out their new concoctions,” she smiles,
“but our go-to is still an ice-cold strawberry daiquiri. When Gerrie and I are by
ourselves, we explore the neighbouring towns on the Harley-Davidson. We
enjoy travelling and discovering new scenery. Playing golf together is another
favourite, which ensures that we truly appreciate and enjoy the free time we
have together.”
The family firmly believe that Christmas is a time for connecting, and getting
together, a celebration with family and friends. “Our philosophy is to keep it
simple, but also welcoming, with a touch of elegance. We decorate the table
in a minimalist style and make a big deal about the Christmas tree! The kids
normally decorate it at the beginning of December with everything that we
have collected over the years,” says Cora, Charl’s wife. Each member always
14 Get It Lowveld Dec 2020 / Jan 2021