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