Malta. Memories.Memories of my first plane ride aged just 5, to land in Luqa Aiport holding my Mamma and Grandads hand. Greeted by the stoney buildings, in awe of a land far away from home.
Memories of returning every year from then, building sand castles on Golden Bay beach, taking photos covered in sun cream, ice lolly juice and sand stuck to my knobbly knees. Looking up in awe of the cliffs and one day riding one of the most beautiful horses Ive seen from Golden Bay Riding, trotting along the edge, looking down to waves crashing against rocks sat as still as can be. Soaking in the beauty of an island unknown to many but oh so familiar to me, whilst on horseback.
Memories of learning to use a video camera with Grandad at my side, at the time that was almost as big as my head whilst stood outside Mellieha Church, blinded by the blazing sun beating down upon the gravestones that lie tucked away waiting to be discovered.Memories of my Mamma and Granddad introducing me to Our Lady of Mellieha and lighting a candle down almost too many steps to count, for the loved ones we've lost but always remember, especially when here, on land so peaceful.
Memories of taking a yellow bus down the windy roads, to end up in Buggiba. Buying gifts galore for family back home. Tea Towels, keyrings, souvenirs with the word 'Malta' inscribed.
Memories of growing up to appreciate the beauty this land beholds and each year appreciating it that bit more.Memories of watching glass blowing and ornaments being made, standing by the roaring fires about to cook hand made sculptures carefully crafted by creative hands of the maltese cultures.
Memories of new friends made on Golden Bay beach, running in the cool but welcoming sea, jumping waves and giggling with delight as a splash cools pink, sunburnt legs.
Memories of falling to sleep in the sun and being woken to Granddad and Mamma shouting "you're going to burn!"and smiling with delight at my first 'grown up tan'.
Memories of trips out to the Marine Park to stroke a Dolphin and watch Sea Lions put on a display so enchanting.
Memories of hours spent in Popeye Village, laughing as Mamma and Grandad looked on whilst I squealed in delight at driving a boat and seeing a place so magnificent where films were made.
Memories of the first time going back as a two, this time taken by Dad and not Grandad. How landing on the runway felt, without the man that was my best friend sat next to me smiling with delight at coming back. The emptiness so loud.
Memories of feeling resentment that he couldn't share this one last time with us, but learning to hold onto the love he had for this place and carrying that on for him.
Memories of swimming in the Blue Lagoon and looking through the Azure Window in awe of how a place can be so beautiful yet still so undiscovered.
Memories of not visiting for the first time one year and realising you hadn't missed or yearned for a place before.
Memories of walking hand-in-hand with my first love on Paradise Bay beach, thinking life was complete.
Memories of getting lost in time in the fairytale City, Mdina. Walking back in time in the medieval hilltop town.
Memories of waking up to find Mamma with sunburnt lips from too much sun the day before.
Memories of driving through the streets of the Island that holds so many secret treasures in a Jeep, with dad driving and Mamma bouncing around in the back.
Memories of flying from America back to the place I love, alone.
Memories of lying on the beach at Paradise Bay, having ran away from life back home.
Memories of sitting in the speed boat from Paradise Bay to Comino, nursing a broken heart.
Memories of spending 10 days alone, on an Island that had soon become home.
Memories of finding myself.Memories of love, laughter, relationships and bitter sweet moments spent both with people I love and alone.
Memories of Malta.
For more information visit the Air Malta website.
In loving memory of Grandad (2004) and Mamma (March 1927 - January 2017)
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