'The truth is Christmas would be perfect if it weren't for presents'

CHRISTMAS is so close now I’m getting used to living with panic. Every year I resolve to be ‘finished’ early, all presents bought and wrapped by December 8, writes Tric Kearney. 

I don’t know why I even think that because it never happens. As this last week rushes past, there are mornings my first words to my family are:“What day is today?”

I ask this in desperation, hoping they tell me it’s Monday and not Tuesday, that I have another seven days and not six of frantic shopping left. Alas, I’m always disappointed. Breakfast becomes a hurried affair so I can hit the shops before the crowds while I write another list which I’ll ignore or lose before the day is out.