There are some things you do not know about me. There are some hidden things I keep tucked inside my soul. I do my best to be as transparent as a writer can be. I will answer any question honestly and often without sugar-coating it so the truth is easier for you to handle.

You don’t know that I hate to cry. I am not a crier. I will cry when angry. The thing is when the tears stop you better be running away or I can’t be responsible for your safety.

I often have two or three writing projects going at once and reading two to three books at the same time. I claim that I am not good at multitasking and I am not unless it is writing or reading.

I am a perfectionist in a lot of things, however never on Christmas. Not any more.

I used to be one of those women who just about killed herself to make sure that everyone around me had a perfect Christmas. I was exhausted and broke for a long time after.

One year I just stopped.

I refused to pull out all the decorations and buy a big tree. I refused to cook a huge Christmas dinner. I refused to spend all my time running around for gifts for all the people I knew.

I did not attend all the gatherings and parties. Yes, even family. I sent Christmas cards to a very small handful of family and friends. Made a few calls, you know with actual talking, to my close family. Chose a few special gifts to send to loved ones. Let me tell you a secret. No one really cares if you skip a few traditions.

That first year, I bought a small prelit tree with nontraditional ornaments. I ordered take out, drank coffee and watched television all day.

That was five Christmases ago.

You know what?

The world kept spinning.

Give yourself permission to rest, to NOT be perfect, and do not neglect yourself.

Life will continue after Christmas.

~Lori O’Gara