It’s presence, not presents, that really counts at Christmas

Stop, breathe, and remember what’s really important about December 25. It’s more special and far less stressful if we refuse to buy into the ‘perfect Christmas’, writes Vicki Notaro

HOW many seasonal adverts have you seen in the past 24 hours promising a “perfect” Christmas? If you watched all the soaps last night like any normal human being, I’m wagering more than a few.

As soon as Halloween is over, out comes the festive propaganda from every department store, supermarket and online emporium — buy this present, this toy, this item of food, and you and your family will have an entirely magical day, promise!