Ok so this Christmas malarky is making me feel just a teensy weensy bit stressed out, tips to get through it would be gratefully received, I thank you!!

[Sparkler]

Well I've started on the Sherry this evening (yes Sherry I know, terribly posh eh? but if I'm not careful I might start drinking it in a pint glass!!) It's starting to take effect and things are already looking a bit better!!!!

Just remember it's only a roast dinner.. it's only family.. and the dc's will love it.. don't go for perfect go for good.. and breathe

shame, cracking open the xmas booze was my tip

That's a very philosophical view on thoings bcns! Brilliant.

lists for each day - proper lists not huge scary invented tasks, just what you need to do.
I have a relaxation cd for when it gets too much, pop a heated wheat bag with relaxing oils around my shoulders and lie down in a darkened room listening to the relxation cd. It is very good and has got me out of a few panics.

Work out what needs to be done, not all the things you want to get done. If there's time left over to fanny about doing all the little extras, then consider it, otherwise let them go.

You need - some food and drink in the house. Some presents, wrapped. Um, that's about it I think. Some decorations up would be nice too.

Beyond that, don't fret it - it's only a meal and some family and friends.

That's v true BellsCarolsNSleighs.
Nah I'm alright really. Just trying not to get too carried away with it all.
Just feeling a little pressured this year. I've just finished work and have two weeks off (yey!) so am absolutely shattered and was looking forward to a rest 'cept I'm cooking for 8 on Christmas day then have in-laws coming on Boxing Day and I have to cater for them - going to be about 20 of us Boxing Day and 9 of them are under 10 years old!

Oh, and do feel free to apply sherry in reasonable doses, but don't overdo it specially round sharp knives and hot ovens, as a trip to casualty will definitely mess up your planned schedule... ... but I'll be opening the sherry myself in a minute... yum

I dunno, a well timed trip to Casualty could get Sparkler out of all the catering!

hmmm now there's a thought. Trouble is I work at the local hospital so that wouldn't feel like a break to me - lmao!

True, and a bandaged hnd guarantees that other people will have to do most of it even once you get back... AMIS rethinks her plans....

LOL.. I am a philosophical person

but then I am lucky enough to actually get on really well with all my family and so enjoy these times