97 Windstar idling problems

I have a 97 windstar with around 150,000 on it. It is running very sluggish while in town traffic. on highway it is fine. it dies sometimes at the intersection. also, when i first start it up the boiling over sign eluminates on the dash in the upper left hand corner. then goes away. it is not losing coolent, it does have a faint smell of it. but not real strong. like i said runs fine on the highway, but in town, sort of putts, putts. vacuum hose? thermostat? please help. thanks

Not sure what to recommend other than to make sure that you are up on all the routine maintenance items....including......
Fuel Filter
Spark Plugs
Spark Plug wires
Air Filter
Fuel System Cleaner (Berryman's B-12 Chemtool)
Clean Idle Air Control (IAC) (spray version of SeaFoam or even WD-40)
Clean Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor with MAF or non-residue electronic cleaner (spray version)
PCV valve
Battery and battery terminal cable connections
Check vaccum hoses, including the one that goes from the PCV valve (rear valve cover for your '97) to the top of the upper intake manifold....including the 90 degree elbow on the top of the upper intake manifold (mine cracked on the inside of the elbow)

I would make sure that all this is in order before looking into clogged EGR ports, DPFE, Coil pack, Camshaft sensor, etc

Of course, if your Check Engine Light comes on, get the code(s) read.
You can get them read for FREE at many auto part stores such as AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts.
Make SURE to get the actual Numeric code from them.
As you don't mention the CEL, the problem seems to not be severe enough yet to set a code.