The holidays can bring joy, but also stress, expectations, and challenges for families in recovery. Join Janice and Katie as they share practical tips and tools for navigating family gatherings, avoiding common pitfalls, setting healthy boundaries, and creating a happier, healthier, sober holiday season for everyone around the table.

0:00 – Welcome and introducing Katie

0:31 – Why this episode: helping families, not just staying sober, during the holidays

5:44 – Staying in the present, not the past

7:12 – Tabling old hurts and having a backup person

8:09 – Don't overthink it, and plan ahead (the "we're not there" story)

9:07 – Check your expectations

10:00 – Safeguard against people and traditions that enable old patterns

11:20 – Making up for lost holidays (presence over presents)

13:13 – When the past comes up at the wrong moment

14:38 – Acknowledging feelings and being patient with yourself

16:34 – Keeping good traditions and creating new memories

17:03 – Gift giving and acts of service as alternatives

18:54 – Practical list: expectations and a recovery plan

20:49 – Respecting boundaries without taking them personally

21:18 – Don't pressure anyone to forgive or reconcile

21:46 – Staying in the present and focusing on progress

22:38 – Avoiding activities that end in conflict

23:34 – Stay sober first, have fun

24:15 – Final takeaway: step by step

24:44 – Closing and the book Rebuilding Relationships and Recovery

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