In Britain, today is called "Boxing Day," and that has nothing to do with lacing on gloves and going a few rounds with Manny Pacquiao. It dates back to the days when wealthy people gave their servants a day off, the day after Christmas, to be with their own families, since they had to spend Christmas bringing tea and crumpets to Lord and Lady Worcestershire. Ever generous, Lord and Lady would box up leftover chow and candies, cakes, fruits, and the occasional tart to send home with them.
And we've all known the occasional tart, am I wrong?
Not only Jeeves and Miss Haverhingham got the day off, but also, letter carriers, errand boys, and other servant/helpers could expect a Christmas box on the 26th. A Christmas Box might be an actual box with a gift, or it might be that gift that's always the right size: a wad of cash.
It seems like the right thing to do, to drop a few bucks off with the letter carrier (ours seems to be a different man or woman every day) or trash-hauling crew.
Another custom that just seems to be taking root in this country and also in Western Scandinavia is the burgeoning tradition of mailing envelopes full of ten and twenty dollar bills to people who write blogs.
It's true! I wouldn't fib.
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