partially reprinted from AT&T Yahoo! home page, originally from Bankrate.com, by Megan Kamerick

If you're among those who feel holiday spending is out of control, remember: It doesn't have to be that way. You can start new family traditions or return to some abandoned long ago.

How to go about it?

First of all, discuss the matter or simply warn your family in advance so that you avoid any awkwardness when it comes time to open gifts. At the same time, show respect for those who may not want to go along with your pared-down spending plans. If they enjoy it and can afford it, don't try to ruin their fun.

Once that's settled, come up with a plan. Here are some popular ideas you can adopt or tweak to your own situation.