Author Patricia Scanlan muses on the pressure, not only of hosting the big day, but of making sure that the magic of Christmas prevails - especially for the younger members of the family.
Patricia Scanlan
Christmas spirit or Christmas pressure?
Posted on: Thu 08-Dec-16 18:01:40
(47 comments )
Yesterday, while driving to visit my ninety year old dad in hospital, my thirteen year old niece who was with me said gaily 'I can’t wait for Christmas. I'm getting so excited.'
My sister and I have been trying to ignore the looming event, knowing that plans have to be made, logistics have to be worked out and frankly there's going to be a lot of hassle. Since my mother passed away nine years ago we've taken it in turns to host Christmas. Last year it was my turn. We've had a tradition of a family breakfast in my parents' house, after church, with all my siblings and the grandchildren, and whoever is on 'cooks' for the dinner eats and runs.
Last year I had been up since the crack of dawn stuffing the turkey, preparing the veg and all the prep that goes with the Christmas dinner. My lovely mother used to say that Christmas was a 'work-up'. She much preferred Easter. I never quite understood what she meant until that first time that the full responsibility for the Christmas Dinner rested with me.
Making sure the turkey is cooked to the bone but still moist. Crisping the roasties but ensuring that they aren't rock hard. Adding just enough meat juices and sherry to the gravy to give it that 'Christmassy' taste. And don't talk to me about those blinking mushy peas that invariably boil over in a green frothy mess if you take your eyes off them for one second, while making sure the sprouts haven't turned into pulp!
I was just looking forward to the secret relief of not having the responsibility of the whole palaver.
Thank God it's not my turn this year, I remember thinking a few months ago before my dad had a fall that has left him fairly banjaxed. I had pushed thoughts of Christmas to the back of my mind until my niece mentioned it. And slowly it dawned on me that because Dad is now in a wheelchair or on his 'four wheel drive' mobility yoke, my sister's house is much less compatible than mine to his mobility needs.
It looks like I'll be doing Christmas again this year. My heart sank to my boots at the realisation, even though I won't be alone in the kitchen, and everyone will muck in. I was just looking forward to the secret relief of not having the responsibility of the whole palaver.
But I've given myself a stern talking to. My parents gave us the best of Christmases and went to so much trouble for the six of us. My niece is entirely right to look forward to the season with sparkling eyes and high anticipation. My memories of Christmas when I was her age were all good. Full of family festivities, fun with my friends, presents under the tree, books to read in bed while nibbling on chocolate covered almonds for breakfast, knowing I didn't have to get up for school for two whole weeks.
She will have the Christmas she's so looking forward to and I will give the day my all and collapse in a heap when it's over and comfort myself with chocolate almonds, a good book and a stiff G&T. Happy Christmas all.
A Gift For You by Patricia Scanlan is published by Simon & Schuster and available from Amazon.