Boxing day

Boxing day, 26th if December means different things to different people.

In Ireland it is recognised as St Stephen's day; a religious holiday.

During the 18th Century Boxing day was the day when workers went to visit their families after working on Christmas day. The rich families they worked for would "box up" leftover food or unwanted gifts for them to open & share with their families.

During the times of exploring and great big sailing ships set off to discover new lands a Christmas box was used as a good luck device. A priest would put a "box" on the ship while still in port. The crewman would put money into the box to ensure a safe return. It was sealed up until the journey end. If it was a successful journey the box was handed to the priest to say a mass of thanksgiving. The priest would keep the box sealed until Christmas & then share it with the poor.

Another religious tradition was for an "Alms box" to be placed in all churches on Christmas day. People of the parish put a present for the poor in the "Alms box" & these boxes were opened the day after Christmas day & the day became known as Boxing day.

Boxing day is also a day when traditionally fillies get together. It's a day of watching sport like LadyWL's husband & son. It's a day of playing board games or card games. Like later when LadyWL's family arrive.

In recent times, Boxing day has become a day of shopping. The first day of the sales. People get up at 5:30 am to get the "bargains" they wouldn't touch the rest of the year!!

Well, in LadyWL's childhood time Boxing day was the dreaded day when you wore the Christmas jumper. Obviously Santa was a bit confused & didn't quite get the size right here!! It's the thought that counts!!

Whatever tradition ewe follow or believe in, have a Happy Boxing" and recharge your batteries for the newe year ahead.

PS. Sorry this is long. I'd be surprised if ewe read it all!!