It is all too easy to get caught up in the panicked race to create the perfect Christmas.
Bombarded by imagery of idyllic homes and happy families, we sometimes lose ourselves in a pursuit that's always going to be a little out of reach.
And while there's nothing wrong with trying to make the holidays memorable for us and our loved ones, perfection is a mighty high pillar to climb.
Besides, Christmas isn't about perfection.
Certainly the first Christmas was hardly ideal - the accommodations were a little rough and the timing could have been better. Since then, we've all experienced holiday disasters - overcooked turkeys, broken decorations, family feuds.
And yet there were likely still smiles, still stories to tell and memories to savour.
Yes, the Christmas season can be chaotic. But it's up to us to slow it down and make our own peace on Earth.
What's your opinion:Do you think you will have stayed within your budget for Christmas presents and celebrations this year? Vote in our online poll.
