Christmas Traditions

We came to Dublin in 1972 and bought a house in Clondalkin. Soon after a couple with their three children moved into the house next door. They were Teresa and Dennis Gavin with Tony, Dennis and Bernadette, who were returned emigrants from the UK. Dennis had emigrated from West Clare and Teresa from Carrick in Donegal . We have been friends ever since even though we have moved. Better friends and neighbours one could never find.
On Christmas Eve 1972, Dennis and Teresa popped in to wish us a happy Christmas and enjoyed little drop of whiskey(for Denis) and a babycham, for Teresa.
Mary had porter cake made and when Dennis tasted it he realised it was the cake his mother used to make in Clare many years before. Mary gave him the remainder of the cake and has made one for him, without a break for 38 years now.
I saw Mary make it a few days ago from a handwritten recipe given to her by one of my cousins. As always it has almond and white icing.
Traditions like this make Christmas special for all of us.