THE best part of Christmas is sharing it with your family and friends. And it can also be the most difficult part. Guests can add up to a lot of worry and cost as you do your best to make sure they will be comfortable, well-fed and entertained.

Yet with just weeks to go, a little preparation now can see you - and your home - in tip-top shape for the festive visitors.

First, and most important - don't panic. You may think that corners of your home are truly grotty, but the chances are your guests won't even notice them. They'll be too busy over-eating!

But if you feel your really must decorate, remember that your time now is short - stick to simple amendments to your colour schemes that won't involve major wallpaper-stripping or a huge mess in the house; you'll only have to clear it up afterwards.

Remember - the most important thing for guests is to have a welcoming atmosphere; you need to be relaxed when they arrive, so try not to overdo things.

Food: This is one of the times in your life when you really do need a list. That way, you can do all the shopping in one go, and you won't suddely remember on Christmas morning that you've forgotten the cranberry jelly.

Make sure you have plenty of freezer room for everything you are buying, and - crucially - remember to get the food out in plenty of time to defrost. Turkey in particular needs to thaw thoroughly before you cook it. The last thing you want is your guests struck down by food poisoning!

Furniture: If the sofa's looking tatty, cover it up with a throw. They can brighten your whole room if you choose dramatic colours - look out for this season's favourite deep reds and russets to add some real luxury to your decor.

Plan where your dinner guests will sit. Is there enough room at the table?

If not, add a folding table at the end and cover it all up with an attractive tablecloth. Make the table look splendid by adding candles, holly wound into wreaths and writing out namecards for each place setting in gold pen on thick cream card.You can also change the look of your room by altering the lighting and moving lamps to create a cosy, welcoming room for that special meal.

Beds: Sure you've got enough? If not, now's the time to invest in either a campbed or something a bit smarter - perhaps a futon which will fold up into a sofa during the day. Check your bedding, too, and ensure you have enough pillows.

If you can't afford to buy new, then why not consider revitalising your old stuff with dyes, and fabric paints if you have the artistic touch.

Bathroom: Guest towels in order, with plenty in reserve (if you've teenagers coming, they'll use twice as many as normal people... and spend twice as long in the bath).

A new shower curtain or rug will make the room look fresh; pot pourri in small wicker baskets is a nice alternative to sprayed air freshener.

Kitchen: Forget it - the room will be so packed with people hurrying about, drinking tea, washing up and simply nibbling that no-one will notice if the flooring is shabby or the units have seen better days.

As long as the cooker and microwave are in order, you'll be fine!