UPS - or Grinch That Stole Christmas??

Well, looks like something of a replay from last year.  I had three different items scheduled for delivery this past Friday - and - you guessed it - none of them were delivered.  Of course, they are going to "investigate" - but that does not get the kids' presents here for Christmas.  I also had one scheduled for delivery today - and now tracking says that package was "held" at the facility in California and delivery will be delayed with no further information available.  I hate it for the retailers, but in the future, if they can't offer me shipping alternatives to UPS I will not do business with them.

Anyone else having problems with UPS shipping this year?