Since joining, Christmas has gotten busier every year. I imagine quite a few members, both men and women, have to double-book themselves day after day. Now that I’m over 50, I don’t eat as much, and having to sit down for two celebratory meals a day is pretty exhausting. How do you all manage it?

I’m Saito, a columnist ♪ I tell them: “Don’t spend Christmas with someone like me—go see your boyfriend and enjoy your time with him.” Or: “Spend it with another papa and tell me how it went. I’m not very used to special occasions.” Then, a few days later, around the 26th or 27th, we take our time having a Christmas-themed meal. We might choose a restaurant that offers half portions, or pick dishes so she can quietly eat plenty. It doesn’t have to be on the 24th or 25th. (Unless she’s feeling lonely.) I completely agree about the food, too. The more special the day, the more likely it is that something dramatic will happen, so it’s interesting just listening to the stories.