by Valerie Kelly

Created on: December 11, 2008

As a veteran of many Christmas campaigns I cannot emphasise enough the most important thing that should be recognised at this very hectic and stressful time.

Be mindful of your own health and wellbeing. In the run up to the big day your athleticism will be tested to the limit as you juggle with the shopping - the cooking - the kids - present buying and the myriad of tasks that will undoubtedly fall into your lap.

Don't give yourself impossible objectives - be prepared to expect the unexpected. Don't make rigorous plans - they won't work . Learn to run with the ball - go with the flow.

Down all the years every Christmas will be different. Each will have its own special magic. Some of the best ones in my experience were when there wasn't much cash to splash - just a great well of love.

Learn to delegate in the next couple of weeks. Make a " To Do" list and rope the family in to share the load. Give them some responsibility. Most children will love helping out. Let them dress the tree - that's always a favourite or making a bran tub full of little gifts to be opened after the Xmas lunch.

Ban the X box for two weeks - explain to them that this is a special time for all the family to play their part. There may be quite a few howls of protest to begin with but believe me, if you stick to your guns your little monsters will surprise you with their hidden depths.

Now - let's take a moment to discuss you - Supermum, because if you collapse under the pressure everything goes pear shaped anyway.

1. Have a proper nourishing breakfast every day. Bran flakes and fresh fruit will set you up for the morning. Or maybe poached eggs on toast with orange juce.

2. Take some time out for yourself. Be determined to have a pamper evening, perhaps with the girls. If you can't manage that put a " Do not disturb" sign on the bathroom door and have an hour soaking in a luxurious bath.

3. Your immune system will take a pounding at this time of the year so make sure that you eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and drink loads of water.

4. Try and create a calm and peaceful atmosphere. No - it isn't impossible! Your serenity will have a knock on effect and they will all bathe in its rosy glow.

All of this advice is given in retrospect. No longer a front runner in the race, I can see so clearly the mistakes that I made. Invariably I ended up with a cold or some other ailment by Christmas Day - trying to do the impossible.

So remember - if you are going to enjoy this lovely time of the year stay relaxed - chill out and have a good laugh. You've got your wonderful family, so unique and diverse. Treasure them. God has given their wellbeing in trust to you. How you all interact with each other is the true meaning of Christmas.

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