The problem: You missed the last post for sending Christmas cards
Solution: Send everyone e-cards. Yes they’re not quite the same. But as they’re free you can donate what you’d have usually spent on them to charity. Explain this to your family and friends and they should forgive you whilst also admiring your philanthropy.

The problem: Badly behaved children
Solution: The excitement of Christmas can be too much for young children. You would think they would be grateful for their presents and time together as a family but instead they’re fighting with each other or rolling on the floor screaming at you. They might just need some time out of the house, so take them on a walk or to the park. Failing that, remind them Father Christmas sometimes does a return trip to take back presents from naughty children (and be prepared to carry out your threat!)

The problem: You leave it too late to buy your Christmas food
Solution: We’re used to seeing supermarkets well-stocked all year round, but if you leave it too close to Christmas the shelves can look bare. Be prepared to hunt down the food you’re after, it might mean lying on the aisle floor to extract the last Christmas pudding hiding at the back of the shelf. And if someone else grabs the last pack of mince pies, maybe you could make them an offer for it? Fifty pence over the shop price might save the day for you.

The problem: Difficult visitors
Solution: Sometimes we have to host family and friends out of politeness. If you find someone’s company hard work then set a time a limit on their visit. You could tell them you have other plans that day or ask an old friend to call at a convenient time for a long chat so your visitors need to excuse themselves.

The problem: You discover you are pregnant
Solution:  As Christmas is traditionally the time for merry making and drinking, it may be hard to explain not enjoying a tipple. You could tell people you’re on antibiotics but that can lead to further questioning. So instead you might try making your drinks look alcoholic – various fruit juices and cordials can be watered down and mixed to look like wine while sparkling apple juice can just about pass as bubbly. Just don’t let anyone else pick up your drink by mistake. Another sure fire why to trick people is to accept a drink and tip it in a plant pot when no one is looking.

The problem: You forget to turn on the oven on Christmas Day
Solution: The turkey is in and eventually you realise there isn't that lovely roasting smell. If this happens you can delay your Christmas dinner and distract guests with drinks, nibbles, Christmas tunes and games. Or if you have a sharp knife and some slight butchery skills you could cut the turkey into smaller bits and roast those.