Merry Christmas, everybody! (And y'know what? My Jewish, Buddist, and Muslim friends tell me it isn't in the least bit offensive, and none of them understand why the media has made it a politically incorrect wish, either.)
I should begin by admitting I'm not a "Christmas person". I go through the motions, because my kids and grandkids love all the hooplah. And my husband? Good grief. He's a bigger kid this time of year than the kids are! So I decorate (and people say "Has Martha Stewart been here?"), and I bake (and they ask "Did you inherit Julia Childs's secret recipes?".
One of my least favorite 'get ready' chores is the shopping, because for cryin' out loud, stuff's expensive. And what if I forget somebody? (I believe the whole Hatfield-McCoy feud started cuz somebody forgot to give a Christmas present.) Then there are rude, poorly-raised children who don't even bother to say thank you, even when you've handed out gifts in person. The stores are noisy and crowded with scowling, in-a-rush people who've forgotten The Reason for the Season. And the roads and parking lots? Don't even get me started.
But y'know what I hate worst? Not being able to write!
Even if I don't have a deadline hanging over my head (which is rare), it seems the computer is made of iron, and I've got an invisible magnet inside me. While I'm addressing Christmas cards, running errands, wrapping presents, and performing any of a dozen other mindless chores, my over-fertile imagination is hard at work. Ideas percolate and, like one of those old-fashioned camp coffeepots...
...and all too often fizzle out as they bubble onto my overheated brain.
So I guess in addition to the 14' tree that looks surprisingly like Laura Bush's, and home baked goodies, and gaily-wrapped presents, and a house that glitters and shines like a silver ornament, I'm giving the gift of love. Cuz let's face it: If I didn't truly love these people, no way I'd stay away from my computer this long!
Strange, but during those long, harrowing days between Thanksgiving and New Year's, martyrdom becomes a truly pretty thing. HOHOHOHO!
Seriously, now that I'm 95% ready, I've joined the ranks of those who are looking forward to a big fat stocking, hung by the fireplace with care. (Oh, who am I kidding? I'll settle for a sloppy one with a hole in the toe.) I'm looking forward to Christmas Eve, when my beloved and I attend Midnight Mass, and come home to a peaceful and pretty house to share a cup of mulled wine (and whatever it might inspire ).
Then we'll both settle down for a long winter's nap, knowing centuries ago, during those same hours, the world's most holy miracle took place.
Merry Christmas, everybody. I look forward to hearing from you all soon. Meanwhile, take care of yourself and those you love, and here's hopin' the new year will bring you health, happiness, peace, and prosperity...and a few Dreams Come True.
All my best,
Loree
P.S. I just finished a terrific novel, written by Sharlene MacClaren. Courting Emma is going straight to my Keepers shelf!
9 comments:
Merry Christmas to you, too, Loree. You've been a gift to me ever since we met at your workshop, and started editing my manuscripts.
God bless you and your family, and I sincerely hope to attend another one of your Leading Edge workshops very soon!
Treena
Hey, Lor, great article! As always, you made me laugh and you made me think, and there is far too little of both these days.
Haven't talked to you in a while, so I wanted to let you know that I've had a few things published at eXstasybooks.com. Check out their web site. It's a cool company, and from everything you've said about that alleged e-publisher you wrote for, you're in for a very professional surprise.
Have a peek at my "new" web site and let me know what you think!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and Larry and the family!
Dakota
Loree-
Glad to hear the computer is calling you in spite of your crazy 'to do' list this month. Knowing you, you'll find something in all that hustle and bustle that'll make you think of a new character or book.
Here's hoping that mulled wine (and the inspiring feelings it brings) keeps you happy and having fun this season.
Keep those books coming--I always look forward to your new releases!
:)
Hi, Loree! Great article! I'm 95% ready for Christmas, too, but I KNOW tomorrow I'll think of yet one more person I should have added to my list and off I'll go to the store to find something that will fit the bill--ur, no pun intended!
I do splurge at Christimas (I can't help myself), but I love spoiling my loved ones.
I too wonder what that mulled wine might inspire on Christmas Eve after you and hubby partake. Hmmmm
Merry Christmas to you and yours, and thank you again for the kind words you've said about my recent book. And I even noticed your P.S. (grins)
Be blessed!
Shar
Super stuff, lady, as always. You need pictures of YOU here on your blog. I don't think most people realize what a knock-out you are.
Can't wait to see you at the next Leading Edge workshop. Until then be safe and happy.
Your friend,
Mark
Jacqueline Suzanne with a Martha Stewart complex - now I have you nailed. Climb down off that cross, Honey, somebody needs the wood!
Just kiddiing, lovely lady. I know how unselfish and kind you can be. I truly believe of all the writers you have helped, I am the cutest.
Merry Christmas...uh is that a blog spot on your dress?
All My Best - Well, not ALL MY BEST -
Grant Devereaux
I am reading Maryland and finding it a great source of helping me cope with the challenges which I encounter everyday for the constant care of my 24 year old, severely injured soldier son.
The story behind me actually taking time to sit down and read is such a coincidental thing and as I viewed your web site I am blown away with the irony of quite a few things which seem to inter twine my life now and some of the things you talk about on your website.
PS. we are the proud pack members with our wolf
please email me I would love to be able to get some insight from you as to how I would go about sharing my sons story
thanks bert
Hi Loree,
Seems you haven't had time to update since Christmas !
Well today is Valentin's Day, so lets have your take on that day.
An even bigger advertising scam than Christmas.
Carol
Third try - please enter me to win
I emailed you as I could not get this blog to go through and since I cannot copy and paste my own comments to keep from rewriting them continually, I wrote them via email.
God Bless
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