Cures for the Boxing Day blues

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This article was published 26/12/2018 (2832 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

DEAR MISS LONELYHEARTS: I get the Boxing Day letdown.  I am tired of Christmas by then, but not ready to go back to the same old routine. I don’t go shopping on Boxing Day because it’s that mean, ugly day when some people return their presents and cash in. What a “holiday,” when everyone is out shopping, pushing, shoving and grabbing!

It’s partly my fault. I’m too tired to organize another party, but I need a different ritual for Boxing Day. Our family just sits there, not quite knowing what to do — other than get on the computer or on each other’s nerves.

I get the Free Press every morning, and I need to know what to do with myself and family that day. Please write me by then, if you can fit it in. I’m sure I’m not the only one. 

— Boxing Day’s Mr. Blues, Westwood

Dear Mr. Blues: Most people need to get out of the house on Dec. 26, breathe some fresh air and take a break from all the visiting, overeating and hustle and bustle of Christmas. Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre offers a winter scavenger hunt and snowshoe walk where other people lead the activities, not you. Perhaps an outdoor spa where you can soak and relax for a few hours is more your speed. 

Or how about spending the day playing a bunch of new board games with friends and family? 

Boxing Day is also a great time to take a break from cooking, so you can eat-out or order-in. 

Dear Miss Lonelyhearts: I heard a rumour at my office Christmas party that one of my workmates is having an affair with the boss. I don’t know what to do with this information, and it’s bothering me. I like my boss’s husband. He used to work here, and he was a decent person who loves her. They share two sets of kids with former partners. He left for a different job when they married.

I guess it’s my boss’s habit to get involved with a good-looking guy on staff. I’m not even 100 per cent sure it’s happening, but I know that guy spends a lot of time talking to her in his office, and after hours, too. What should I do? 

— Distracted By Boss’s Affair, Downtown

Dear Distracted: The after-hours bit seems suspect, but avoid talking about this rumour with anyone, no matter how tempting. The rumour may have been started by someone who is jealous of the boss favouring a particular person for pet projects and confidences.

That said, be glad you have an awareness of a possibly touchy situation, and you don’t inadvertently criticize the boss’s office honey to her face.

Please send your questions and comments to lovecoach@hotmail.com or Miss Lonelyhearts c/o the Winnipeg Free Press, 1355 Mountain Ave. Winnipeg, MB, R2X 3B6.

Miss Lonelyhearts
Advice Columnist

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