BOXING DAY yesterday appeared as quiet and peaceful a day as the Christmas Day that preceded it. Many Barbadians apparently opted to stay home rather than frequent some of the popular picnic spots.
It may have been because rain had fallen in the northern and western parts of the island, resulting in overcast, damp conditions less than ideal for picnics.
In Bridgetown, Cave Shepherd was one of the few stores open but even they reported slow albeit steady traffic. Even so, police officers were keeping a watchful eye on The City.
At Batts Rock, St James, a group of youths enjoyed each other’s company as well as the food they cooked themselves. Kadira Marshall explained this was something they wanted to make a tradition.
“This is the first time we have done this. We all spent [Sunday] with our respective families, so today is for the young people,” she said.
Marshall said Batts Rock was chosen at random and they would seek a different location every year if possible.
Folkestone National Park and the nearby beach were also lacking large numbers, which made the Hope family group stand out even more.
Yvonne Maynard said they didn’t realize it would be so damp, but they had a good time together nevertheless.
Family gatherings
“It’s good to get out and get away from the everyday stress,” she said.
Gercine Hope said they last gathered in August, so these family get-togethers were occasional.
On the beach, another family had gathered.
The around 20-strong Stapleton/Greenidge/Brathwaite family were taking their annual Christmas excursion.
“Every Christmas holiday we find somewhere to go,” said Paul St Hill, as Wesley Haynes added that it was an opportunity to get together and discuss the year’s happenings.
Nearby, glass-bottom-boat operator Michael Marshall commented on what he perceived to be a gradual change in Barbadians’ mindset.
“I think something is changing in the minds of people. The 25-to-30-year-olds who are supposed to be “taking in” the natural outdoors no longer see it that way and as such, are letting the computer and gadgets interfere with the real feeling of life,” he said.
A National Conservation Commission officer said Sunday was more crowded and perhaps today would also have more people.
It was not a happy occasion for everyone, though. In Bairds Road, Ricardo “Bling” Gittens was mourning the passing of his mother, who died three days ago on her birthday, Christmas Eve.
“This is my saddest day ever, so I’m doing things with my friends to keep me happy,” he said. (CA)