With the festive season suddenly upon us, we've decided to dedicate the next few blog posts to ideas about how to reduce holiday stress.

If the widespread commercialism is getting you down, here are some ways for Sandwiched Boomers to spend less time racking up credit card debt and more time taking care of yourself:

1. Realize that the anticipatory anxiety you may be experiencing about the holidays is quite normal. Questions about what to do and how to do it - with the apprehension that comes along for the ride - are common for a lot of families at this time of year.

2. If you're traveling home to your parents, remember to pack your patience. Old family dynamics and unfinished business are bound to surface. Make a decision this year to leave behind the baggage that is too large to fit in the overhead compartment.

3. Explore the possibility of your out of town guests staying in a hotel. After the discomfort of bringing up the idea, it actually might be a relief for all of you; and the beginning of a welcome new family tradition.

4. You don't have to be all things to all people all the time. If Aunt Sue doesn't get along with Uncle John's second wife, make it easier on yourself and stagger their holiday visits.

It's important to appreciate the traditions of giving and receiving. But the accumulation of stuff can't hold a candle to the gift that matters most. This year, recreate the joy of simpler days by bringing the priceless gift of relaxation and calmness to your family gatherings.