Episode 698: When the Table Is Forever Changed: Finding the Words, Setting Boundaries, and Keeping One Tradition That Says “We Remember”

In this tender episode, Kathi Lipp welcomes friend and author Cheri Fletcher to walk with listeners who are facing a holiday table that’s forever changed. After losing her 29-year-old daughter, Annie, to undiagnosed colorectal cancer, Cheri offers compassionate, practical ideas for navigating Christmas when your capacity is low and your heart is heavy. Listeners will learn:

• Simple ways to honor someone who is missing—think favorite movies, small touchstones, or wearing a gift—without turning Christmas into a full memorial

• Giving yourself permission to scale back decor, modify or skip traditions, and ask the most important question: Why am I doing this—comfort or compulsion?

• How to host kindly when one person wants to talk and another doesn’t

• Plus what actually helps a grieving friend (hint: do the small things without asking).

Cheri introduces her tool, Beyond “I Don’t Know What to Say” grief communication cards—conversation starters that help families find words when grief makes everyone go quiet. If you need a gentle plan for a hard holiday, this conversation will help you find both comfort and doable next steps.

Use the code "clutterfree" or "redhouse" on Cheri's website for 10% off.