It's that time of year again. It's time to overspend, overindulge, shop til you drop, and put on a happy face at family gatherings. It's time to accept the fact that it will take the whole month of January to recuperate.

The best way to avoid family conflict during the festive season is to hibernate til it's over! If that's not an option, then make three rules for all family members.

1. No talking about politics
2. No talking about religion
3. No talking about the past

Recommended topic: The weather (but not global warming or chemtrails)