Have you stopped to think about which holiday tradititons matter most to your family? There's so much to do during this season. How much of it can be set aside without anyone caring?

While we can definitely get ideas from other families, it's important not to compare what our families do (or don't do) with others. You don't have to bake cookies with your kids just because your neighbors do or stage Elf on the Shelf if that stresses you out.

In this short episode I ask my boys what holiday traditions are their favorite. I loved hearing what really makes Christmas special in their eyes and hope you will too. Ask you kids their favorites- you may be surprised.

"Drapers are doers"! That is the motto Melissa Draper has established with her family, both in word and example. As a lover of service, she teaches her kids to say "yes" whenever possible when an opportunity to serve occurs. She is constantly looking for ways that her family can look outside of themselves to help those around them and inspires others through her "Do Something More" podcast.

In this episode, Melissa shares some fantastic ways we can help our families serve this holiday season. We thrive when we serve and it sets a great tradition of spreading joy and light to others. Don't forget- we don't have to come up with a huge service project or raise money for a cause. Service begins in our own homes as parents care for children and siblings help one another.

#thrivingthroughserving

As we approach the holiday season, stress and overwhelm threaten to sneak in. But that doesn’t need to be the case! We can have less stress and more meaning during the holidays as we focus on what matters most. As Saren Eyre Loosli says, “Less is more.”

In this episode of Thriving With 8 Podcast, Saren shares some wonderful ideas and experiences regarding how we can enjoy the holidays with our families by maintaining traditions that keep the holidays simple, thoughtful, and fun.

Whether it's reading Christmas books together, opening pajamas on Christmas Eve, or caroling to the neighbors, discover what matters most to your family this holiday season and let go of the rest. Slow, down, protect family time, and enjoy this special time of year.

For more holiday resources visit poweroffamilies.com

Rachel Bonner and her husband wanted to teach kids about different aspects of life that we may never experience, but would be helpful to understand, in order to show increased kindness and love to others. They were inspired to write A Cultivate Series, which consists of 3 wonderful children's books with alternate endings to help kids develop more awareness and compassion for others.

As an inter-racial family, the Bonners have experienced first hand what it feels like not to be understood. As Rachel points out, "we only know what we know". Rachel shares her wisdom on teaching kids how to thrive through kindness including setting the example first as the adult, role playing, and having open and honest conversations with your family.

Do you ever wonder why you think, feel or respond to the challenges and joys of motherhood the way that you do? Why don't others around you, including your kids, always see things the way you do?

In this conversation with Beth McCord, the Enneagram Coach, we discuss the importance of understanding our personalities and the core motivations within us. When we understand our "why" we are better able to view both ourselves and others with compassion and grace. As we become good, curious students of our children they will feel seen and valued. As you get to know your true internal self and dismiss the "head trash", you will thrive in the "beautiful messiness" of motherhood.

Jodi Orgill Brown was living the perfect "white picket fence life" when the dizziness and headaches first began. Life quickly changed when she was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Jodi has learned through many hard trials including multiple surgeries, hospital stays, and a variety of health challenges that thriving looks different at different stages in your life. Even if you can't always be the mom you thought you would be, you are enough for your kids.

Learning to thrive is a process. But no matter what is happening in your life, the sun still shines! You get to choose everyday if you will see the light.

After listening to this episode, check out Jodi's eye-opening, inspirational book "The Sun Still Shines" to learn more about her incredible journey! And stay tuned for Thriving With 8 Episode 92 for more with Jodi!