No matter how well you plan, there's always a chance that something unexpected will happen that confounds your planning — something completely out of your control.

Perhaps a snowstorm will force the cancellation or postponement of an event.  Or an ice storm will take out power the day you plan to bake.  Or a sudden illness or accident will require a change in priorities.

Given that two of the above happened to me this week (a snowstorm brought cancellations and Momma Elf dislocated her shoulder meaning she can't drive or use her left arm for a while), I can suggest some strategies:

• Be flexible about what you want to accomplish.  Finishing everything may be impossible. Decide what has the most meaning or gives you the most enjoyment and put your energies to those things.  Let the rest go.
• Accept help when it's offered.
• It's better to do one or two things with care than to do a lot of things carelessly.
• Assume that everything will take longer than expected and plan accordingly.  If things go more quickly, use the extra time to have a cup of cocoa.
• Face the season with good humor.  If you are enjoying yourself, that's what everyone will remember.