This was a tough year for us financially, so nearly everything for Christmas had to go on a credit card.

All through November and December, I had to choose between adding more to the debt or disappointing the kids. Logically, I know the right answer is "Don't spend more than you can afford" but I think any decent dad would agree that "Merry Christmas kids! Nobody gets anything they wanted because I'm a failure at providing for my family!" has to be pretty close to the bottom of acceptable options.

My wife always imagines a Norman Rockwell Christmas, and has big plans for what she'll cook and what games we'll play and how she'll decorate. She does a great job every time, but it's a lot. She stresses over being able to do it all, and any inevitable mishaps are catastrophic.

This year, I'm trying not to be a Scrooge, but it's a challenge.

It's all humbug!