I don’t think an autumn has ever gone by this quickly. October just vanished, and I barely had time to blink before it was over. These days, it almost feels as though the weeks consist of Monday and Friday, and in between, everything moves at breakneck speed.
Sundays have also become the day when I have to fit in absolutely everything. And by everything, I really do mean everything: cleaning, horse riding, pottering about in the garden, taking out the rubbish, working for a few hours and, ideally, squeezing in a trip to the shopping centre too, as it’s finally a bit less crowded.
When I lived in Spain, Sunday had a completely different meaning. It was the day you made a bit more of a celebration, often with long lunches or day trips and walks in the countryside. Always with family or friends – and the more, the better! Sunday was quite simply a day to enjoy. A day for socialising, reflecting on life or perhaps throwing a party.
There was no thought of getting ready for the coming week. If there were a few dust bunnies in the corners, they were left exactly where they were. And going shopping on a Sunday was out of the question, as everything was closed. You know, it was actually quite lovely! Do we really need to have access to absolutely everything, all the time?
If it were up to me, a Sunday would start with a long breakfast, preferably with something special that I don’t treat myself to during the week. Perhaps a fruit salad, some scrambled eggs or, on a really special occasion, French toast. To be able to sit at the breakfast table for a long time and just enjoy the morning.
After that, I want to head to the stables and really take my time. No stress – just let everything take as long as it takes. From mucking out and preparing the feed to topping up with some fresh shavings. Then it’s time for a ride, and ideally I’d like to get out into the countryside. The weather doesn’t really matter that much. In fact, it can almost be even nicer to get out when it’s a bit blustery and autumnal. It just makes the feeling even better when you get back home again.
After a few hours at the stables, I want to come home and cook a really tasty, slightly late lunch. The sort of meal that takes its time, both in the kitchen and at the dining table. It’s best, of course, when I can gather family or friends around me, pour a glass of wine and let the afternoon slowly slip into early evening. Good food, pleasant company and conversations that can go on for as long as they like.
I suppose this is exactly what I picture as a perfect Sunday.
And really, it doesn’t matter what time of year it is. A Sunday like this is just as perfect all year round. Surely there should be more Sundays to enjoy and a few fewer to fill with must-dos?
Have a truly lovely, autumnal & horse-filled Sunday!
/Agneta
