It's the most wonderful (stressful) time of the year

Millions dread the holiday season's stressful annual mix of family spats, broken diets, overspending and sad memories. Don't fret, though. It's manageable.

Sing, and sing early, said Andra Medea, the Chicago-based author of the new book "Going Home Without Going Crazy." Preventive strategies can begin on the car ride over to the family feast.

"Turn on the radio and start singing at the top of your lungs. Don't bother meekly humming along with the music. Really belt it," Miss Medea said. "Roll the window down, inhale some fresh air. If the kids start fighting in the back seat, they've probably absorbed your tension. Don't yell at them, sing at them. Get them singing, too."