Boxing Day

When my brother and I were younger.
Boxing Day was the day we had to write our thank-you letters
for the Christmas presents we had received.

It was also a day to relax with no hassle in the kitchen
as there were always enough delicious leftovers to see us through the day.

Today, my daughter and grandson came over for lunch
and to exchange presents.
I seemed to spend the whole morning in the kitchen
but the meal was good  and  made all the work worthwhile.

It's traditional to make mince pies over Christmas
and they are served warm, fresh out of the oven.

When I was on my own again,
there was all the washing up to see to.
I do not own a dishwasher.
That job seemed to go on for a long time.

Now I'm getting used to the contrast of having visitors over
and getting back into routine of being on my own again.
I don't dislike the solitude
as it enables me to really be me
to get in touch with who I really am at my core.

However, I do enjoy the company of other folk too
and sometimes it's really nice to be invited 
and not always be the hostess!

I do notice that many people prefer to be invited rather than invite,
have you noticed that too?

So on this Boxing Day,
I shall put up my feet, pick up some handiwork
and look at a recorded film.
I also have a new book to start
which is waiting for me on my bedside table!

I hope that you are enjoying a more peaceful aftermath of Christmas.
It feels so good, doesn't it?


8 comments

  1. What a sweet little snowman to decorate your mincemeat pie platter. Your pies look perfect and delicious. I'm sure your daughter and grandson enjoyed this family tradition with you. The only positive thing I can think about washing all those dishes is that your hands stay warm in the hot water! Enjoy your quiet time, your crocheting and your book.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks, Cathy! The mince pies were very good, especially still warm from the oven! I did the washing up in three different parts! I also noticed that I need to clean the silver cutlery! Yes, a few quiet days now for my enjoyment!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Good Morning Sandra . . . this is my first quiet day following the 25th & 26th. Family came over yesterday for lunch (with all the trimmings) AND dinner . . . and I felt just like the scullery maid AND the hostess rolled into one! So pleased to have a quiet day today with a new craft mag and my Kindle!

    Wishing you a delightful New Year.

    Hugs, Sarn xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So nice to have you visit, Sarn. I know exactly what you mean! I am catching up on wonderful TV programmes and knitting to return to mindfulness after the rush! I have just watched "The Miniaturist". The book, by Jessie Burton, which I read when it first came out, kept me spellbound and the film, in two parts, has been well constructed.
      Enjoy your quiet time as well!

      Delete
  4. Drat . . . I meant to record that! The book looked fascinating, although I never actually bought it. Will have to see if I can "catch up"! xxx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I hope you can do a back recording. The second part is this evening. The book was extremely well-written and the story-line unexpected (it's the best way I can describe what happens!)

      Delete
  5. I think our Christmas was fairly evenly paced this year. We take turns in our family, one does Thanksgiving and one does Christmas. I had Thanksgiving this year, although we had my in-laws for Christmas, first time they have been home for Christmas in 10 years.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think it's ideal, and only fair actually, to take turns in hosting Christmas. Thanksgiving is such a lovely celebration, I wish we had that here!

      Delete