Tips To Help Couples Survive The Holidays

He.ESee a take Site:$3"aontingTtheo ak oe ey HOLID&SY Hints Tips To Help Couples Survive The e Holidays Dr. Michelle R. Callahan (NAPSA)—Even the healthiest relionships can turn a bit bah humbug during the holidays. If it’s ever happened in your home, you have lots of company. A recent survey found th more than half of Americans (61 percent) consider the holidays stressful. Here are some suggestions th will help prevent holiday stress from putting a strain on your relionships: 1. Plan Ahead. Many disagreements happen when people are over- “Tm booked or stretched too thin. Agree on Dr. Michelle things such as wh R. Callahan events you will host ———— or tend. Pencil in some time to experience the romantic side of the holidays. 2. Don’t Stress Overthe Perfect Gift. More than 95 percent of Americans want to give a gift the receiver will actually use, so don’t be afraid to reach for something practical. Look for products th offer functionality plus a little something special, such as a cool design or innovive technology. 3. Stay Cool With In-laws. Be sensitive to in-law and family issues. Try not to carry th stress into your relionship by complaining to your spouse. Instead, remain positive and supportive during this stressful time. 4. Take Some Timefor You. Cree holiday traditions just for the two of you. Traditions are a gre way to spend time together Get Close—The holidays can be happier when you pencil in some time for romance. and cree holiday memories th will be all your own. 5. Plan a New Year’s Get- away. Consider taking a vacion in January to unwind after the holiday rush. This year you can get closer to your guy in more ways than one when you purchase a Philips Norelco electric shaver as a gift and receive a free night stay a romantic inn. Thegift is part of the company’s promotion for its new arcitec shaver and is redeemable more than 1,500 bed-and-breakfasts throughout the U.S. and Canada. Visit www.philips.com/getcloser for more informion. Dr. Michelle R. Callahan is a relionship expert, coach, developmental psychologist and writer. At Yale University, Dr. Michelle hosted and produced a weekly twohour radio talk show covering issues of interpersonal relionships and careers.