This time of year I sometimes wish I was a kid again, when Christmas was magical and wondrous

When I was a kid, none of the things that stress me out now, were even on my radar.

I've come to realise over the past few years the main stressors for me are:

- What to buy people. I know it might seem ridiculous - but I REALLY want people to love what i buy them. I've been known in the past to buy something for someone, go back 2 days later and exchange it... and then go back and exchange again (thank goodness for shops like Target who are okay with my indecisiveness)

To manage this, the main thing I try to remember is that people are just appreciative of the thought. And I've never heard of anyone say "I really lost respect for you today because of the Christmas present you got me" so that helps me put it in perspective

- People around me who don't enjoy Christmas as much as I do

LIke I said, as a child, I loved Christmas, so I find it really stressful and disheartening when someone doesn't enjoy their day. I try and try to make it special - but sometimes I feel like it's not 'special' enough. It seems so silly when I read those words! I have come to terms with this and just accept it. I also conciously try and hang out with my friends' children on Christmas day and in the lead up.. they really get into it.

- work

Holidays are great, but I have so much to do before I go on leave. I've not enjoyed some Christmas' because in the back of my mind I've been thinking about work! Now I plan a bit better. I have a list of key things I need to get done, rather than the last min rush.

Oh Christmas.. you are wonderful but somewhat stressful!