Behold, for I bring you tidings of great joy. A merry Christmas doesn't have to mean spending beyond your means and starting a new year broke. This year, give the holidays a reality check against your checkbook, and you’ll experience the many relaxing pleasures of a downsized December.

Call me arrogant, but quietly snickering to myself while others gripe about credit card debt or fighting crowds at a packed mall is a large component of my holiday comfort and joy, comfort and joy. I escaped my enslavement to the holiday beast, and I'll show you how you can too.