It's not at all about sex, actually. Just wanted a sexy title. I don't even know what sex bells are and if they even exist, or if I'd ever want to ring such things. I'm going to talk about the holidays, and that's boring and cliche for December of course, so what better way to jazz it up than to add a strangely suggestive title? Brilliant, I know.
As per usual, I'm terribly unprepared for all things holidays: While I did manage to coordinate an almost 3 mile roundtrip adventure to pick out a tree, and even get it decorated, the rest of my holiday planning has consisted mostly of anxiety and irritation, dotted with short bursts of cynicism and total Giveupness. That's a word. My word. Use it only with permission.
I'm coming to the conclusion that I might not really be into the holidays, but just play along because it's exciting for Sam, and for the most part, the people I love are on board with it - it's much more important to me that we get to spend time together, and if it happens to all come together because of widespread holiday related time off, worship, blatant commercialism, or all three, then so be it. I'll take it!
I'm not very religious, so the birth of Christ, as well as the other religious celebrations going on around this time, don't anchor my thoughts or activities. I have no problems with enjoying the food and cheer, the music and pretty lighting, and saying Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Holidays, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy New Year, or Happy Frenzied Shopping. Whatever floats your boat is what I will greet you with, my friend, cause it's all good - just think of me as your willing Holiday Ally. Pass the cookies please, and let's make out under the mistletoe. Hey, maybe
I am into the holidays!
But back to planning: December is nearly half over, and I'm further behind this year than ever. In fact, I'm probably not going to manage getting greeting cards or letters out this year. Oooh, quick detour down memory lane: A former friend once asked me why I bothered to send out a holiday letter. She remarked, "I mean, you're basically Atheist. I just don't get it." Gentle readers, I know I don't have to spell out all the awful assumptions, judgments, and offenses in that little gem. I don't identify as an Atheist. I might be more of an
Alltheist. Goodness, then maybe I should be sending out like 6 times the cards...or wait, that's right-Season's Greetings will do. That's not to say that receiving religious cards offends me. It's fine. Holiday Ally.
I do tend to get it all done in time, and I'm confident I will come through once more. Tim and I usually exchange ornaments and non-extravagant gifts. Sam's gifts are pretty much picked out (but not yet ordered...that's next), and I still have to come up with ideas for my family and a few select friends. Like I mentioned, the holiday mailing might not happen - but I can put a practical spin on my failure...besides the outrageous cost of the stamps and cards, it will save paper, as well as the chemicals used in the inks and photo prints...not to mention that about three quarter of the folks that would receive them are now on Facebook.
I wish you all wonderful holiday joy!
