The year started on a very sad note for our family. Ted my dear husband for more than 40 years died of lung cancer on the 3rd of January. I still feel devastated but our sons, the rest of the family and friends have been a great support.

Ted was my greatest fan and supported us all through thick and thin. We miss his care, his dry sense of humour, rock solid administrative skills and the ethical way in which he approached family and business issues.

Our son Graham, who has always been 'the boss' and I remain passionately committed to the business, as you can see from this Christmas letter that Graham addressed to each and every one of our staff members:

'The Ina Paarman brand has proven itself to be very resilient during these tough economic times as more and more people discover that our products not only offer them a better and healthier eating experience than going to a restaurant but also better value. The thousands of loyal consumers that buy our products everyday recognize the brand for its uncompromising quality and value. This places a burden of responsibility on all of us, as the custodians of the brand, to ensure that we never disappoint them by consistently producing and servicing them with product that lives up to / if not exceeds their expectations. For this reason none of us should be tolerant of any staff member who through his actions (or lack thereof) does not "care" or show respect for the brand/products we make. Finally on behalf of my parents as well, I would like to extend our grateful appreciation in helping us build a true South African success story.'

On a much happier note Nikki married Arthur Edwards on the 9th of January. It was a lovely Cape wedding at Constantia Uitsig. She looked absolutely stunning and her father's remark - 'for a bride this beautiful I should have demanded labola' - did make a lot of sense. We wish her and Arthur many happy years of love and friendship.

Our Valentine's Menu this month celebrates the above values across age barriers. It is not only romantic love that is important, but the love of family and friends. So, break out the bubbly and have a smart braai with Salmon, Lemon Chicken, divine Salads and a stunning Ice Cream Cake!

Ina's Choice this month was inspired by the movie Julie and Julia - a heart warming French Stew with Red Wine and all the trimmings.

The new year will have its problems and challenges, but most of these look less daunting after a good meal, and remember what Alexander Solzhenitsyn said:

'...prize above all else in the world those who love you and who wish you well.'

Best regards and good cooking.