Blood pressure rises as time ticks away and there is so much to be done. Not only do cards need to be sent, but presents bought for family, relatives and close friends. The stress increases as catalogues from department stores arrive in the mail, suggesting bigger and brighter gifts than last year. Flat screen plasma TV screens, computers, or for that person who has (almost) everything - why not a new car? Turn on the TV or radio and the barrage of Christmas commercials is at full throttle.

But isn't this a time for peace on earth and goodwill to all men (and women)? Try looking for a parking space on a hot day in the big shopping centres of Sydney and Melbourne and it is sometimes hard to realize this is the season to be jolly. Once inside, the jostling for last-minute gifts can raise stress levels to bursting point.

Christmas is certainly a time for children, and while the young may be inexperienced at most things in life, they are masters of the art of making sure Santa fills his sack.

Visits to department stores are mandatory to see Father Christmas, sit on his knee, and whisper what you want. And in case he does not hear through all that white hair, send a letter through the mail, or telephone him on the Santa hotline. By now, parents have a pretty good idea that little junior is not fishing for merely a hook, line and sinker, but has cast his rod for a much bigger catch.

If buying for others is hard enough, pressure rises with the thought of Christmas dinner preparations. There is food to be purchased and prepared.

And what if it is going to be hot on Christmas day? I can remember eating midday Christmas dinner with the outside temperature above 40 C and no air conditioning inside.

Cold meats and salads may be more practical and just as enjoyable as hot turkey, lamb and roast vegetables. But then it might be a cold day and the menu has to be changed.

Homemade Christmas cakes taste much better than those from the supermarket. And what would Christmas dinner be without the traditional plum pudding? Better to make more than one in case of extra guests. Decisions, decisions.

I have been reminded of this Christmas ever since I started work at CCTV last March. The ringtone on my mobile phone was selected by a colleague who thought I needed something easy to recognize. He chose "We Wish You A Merry Christmas."

First time visitors to China not expecting much evidence of Christmas, must be surprised to see just how popular it has become. The sight of tall trees decorated with vibrant red and white ribbon bows, topped with stars and sparkling day and night, reminds me of my first visit to the United States at this time of year.

From Beijing's CBD to the Haidian District, I have seen Christmas trees which would rival those in New York's Times Square. And the illuminated reindeer which move gently at the front of the Friendship Hotel are a magnet for passers-by, both young and old.