10/07/2024
This will be my very last post on the Elephant and Barrel page after 12 years of living as part of this phenomenal legendary pub, a big part of the heart of Franschhoek. Thank you to every single one of you that made it what it was, my children (my reasons), my staff (all of you, but particularly those that have stood beside me through the toughest moments) the families of my staff (you most definitely became part of my family) and without you, we couldn’t have done what we did, The locals, especially those that became my friends (so many of you) and always will be, our Live Bands and DJ’s who kept us insanely busy and entertained (you became our soul), our repeat overseas and out of town supporters, our festival goers, our random midweek party makers, our Franschhoek restaurant and business owners, Chefs and hospitality staff, my family as well as all our suppliers. You helped me find my strength on all the difficult days and celebrated all the good days with me, even teaching me how to drink Jägermeister (I can own that now). We sure lived moments that I will take with me on whatever journey life takes me on from here. I cannot express how much I have learnt from all of you over the years and I will hold that close forever.
The Elephant and Barrel became who I was and will carry a massive part of my soul with it always. It has been an honour and the gratitude I feel for everyone who had a role in that is immeasurable. Through your support of the pub, I found myself and will always look back on those memories as the “Best days of my life.” Sometimes things don’t turn out as we planned or hoped, and sadly we make mistakes and have to face those consequences, lessons we didn’t know we still had to learn, but I guess that’s a part of life! The positive is, I have 12 years of magical memories all crammed into a part of me that will never die and I will hold those high…..always! Thank you all, for being part of my journey, our pubs journey. There is nothing more beautiful in life than to change someone else’s for the better and more importantly to see people living, laughing and loving…..and you have given me all of that and more. Thank you!! ♥️
We can check out anytime we like….but we can never leave!!
With love
Sands
Catch you on the other side!
