Christmas Seconds

The Christmas season is one of seconds: searching for just another second to be able to getting everything prepared, second helpings at the holiday table, second thoughts about what it all means and about relationships—and second chances to fulfill the meaningful in gift giving and relationships. Christmas Seconds offers up a five-story inspirational novella and five separate short stories exploring the theme of "seconds." The novella titled Christmas Seconds is of unexpected opportunities and second chances—and snowballing effects—as a young couple that has been blessed with health and security—and each other—is preparing to embark on a long-delayed honeymoon cruise at Christmas time. As they prepare, they and those they are encountering around them, discover that the true meaning and gift of the season is right there at home—and is in giving yourself away. The short story "Second Helping" is one of hearing the message and quietly responding. "Second Glance" is one of not looking in the right place for the spirit of Christmas—and thus possibly overlooking a treasure. "Second Christmas" stresses that the one getting the most presents isn't necessarily the happiest one, and, similarly, "Seconds" shows that heartfelt gifts may not be the showiest versions. The concluding story, "Second Job," is a celebration of appreciation in the true Christmas spirit. "Christmas Seconds" is Olivia's second book of inspirational stories reminding us of, and celebrating, the true spirit of Christmas, "Spirit of Christmas," also from Cyberworld Publishing, is the other.