Navigating the holidays as a grandparent can be tricky, but holding plans with open hands can make all the difference. In this episode, we talk about how to foster unity, embrace flexibility, and keep a spirit of grace at the center of holiday gatherings. Whether you're a mom of grown children or still in the thick of raising kids at home, Karen offers practical tips to help you approach the season with love and understanding.

Episode Recap:

4:56 Grandparents need to hold holiday plans with open hands

7:45 Remember what it was like to be a young adult and all of the pressures they are facing

10:00 Be open and flexible to new traditions

13:00 Enjoy the kids when they are around and be okay if they are not present some years

14:55 Learn how to communicate plans early 

16:30 It’s okay for grandparents to spoil the grandkids and overindulge them once a year!

19:30 Ask your grown children, “what can I do to make holidays easier/better for you?” 

23:00 The holidays aren’t about exactly ‘when’ or ‘how,’ they are about being together

Scripture for Reflection:

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV): "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

Questions for Discussion:

1. In what ways can you be more understanding of the pressures your grown children face during the holiday season?
2. What new traditions could you embrace that might help create a more joyful and flexible holiday experience for everyone?
3. How can you learn to hold your holiday traditions with open hands? Is there anything specific you know will be hard to let go of? 
4. What steps can you take to communicate our holiday plans early, while still being considerate of everyone’s needs and desires?
5. How can you maintain a spirit of grace if plans change or things don't go as expected?

Resources:

Download the BOAW Moms app (for FREE!) [App Store] [Google Play]