In this warm, reflective episode of Yarns With Linda and Preston, the hosts talk honestly about the pressures and commercialisation of the holiday season and how to bring the focus back to connection. They share family traditions (like lolly drives and Giving Trees), ideas for simple, meaningful activities across December, and how to reduce stress by shifting expectations around presents. Linda and Preston also discuss the importance of filling your own cup, being present with kids and community, and choosing rituals that bring gratitude and genuine joy rather than debt or anxiety. Practical, heartfelt and quietly funny — this episode is a reminder that the best presents are our time, attention and kindness.

Show Notes

• Opening reflections on slowing down, noticing Country and the season’s changes.
• The pressure and commercialisation of Christmas — why it can feel overwhelming.
• Family rules and strategies: not buying gifts for adults, Secret Santa, and moving extended-family gatherings to a different weekend to ease pressure.
• Lolly drive tradition — taking kids around the neighbourhood to hand out lollies as an act of giving.
• Creative, low-cost December activities (making baubles, cookie decorating, viewing Christmas lights) to build memory-rich traditions.
• The value of being present: putting phones away, weekly family dinners, and prioritising time over material gifts.
• The need to fill your own cup — self-care and recognising when you’re depleted so you can give from a full heart.
• A gentle call to examine traditions, shift expectations, and choose giving that actually nourishes family, community and spirit

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