Unusual Christmases — The Ones We Never Planned (But Never Forgot)

Christmas doesn’t always follow the script. In this episode of Too Stubborn to Quit, Pam and Linda talk about the Christmases that looked nothing like we expected — and stayed with us forever. Pam shares the story of a Christmas morning 41 years ago that changed her life forever, when her first baby was born at 2:16 a.m. on December 25.

This episode is about the holidays shaped by hospitals, surprises, heartbreak, joy, and moments that divided life into before and after. It’s a reminder that some of the most meaningful Christmases aren’t picture-perfect — they’re real.

If you’ve ever had a Christmas that didn’t go as planned, this one’s for you.

For years, many of us have carried Christmas on our shoulders — the planning, the cooking, the decorating, the expectations. In this episode of Too Stubborn to Quit, Pam and Linda talk about what happens when you finally loosen your grip on the holiday and choose peace over perfection.

This conversation is about releasing guilt, redefining traditions, and giving yourself permission to enjoy Christmas instead of managing it. Because letting go isn’t giving up — it’s growing into the version of the holiday that actually fits this season of life.

Less pressure. More presence. And a Christmas that feels good again.

Episode 9: Moving Forward in the Face of Adversity — with J.T. Pogreba

In this inspiring episode of Too Stubborn to Quit, Pam and Linda sit down with J.T. Pogreba — a survivor of California’s devastating Dixie Fire whose story is a masterclass in resilience. After losing nearly everything, J.T. packed up her two dogs, rebuilt her life in Indiana, moved again to Florida, and now has her eyes on a brand-new adventure: moving to France.

Through all the chaos, one simple mantra kept her going:
“No matter what’s falling apart around you… you still have to get up and feed the dogs.”

This episode is about courage, reinvention, and the small daily acts of responsibility that keep us grounded when life feels impossible.

If you’re facing your own fire — literal or otherwise — this conversation is the reminder that movement, hope, and stubborn determination are always possible.

🚨 WHEN EVERYTHING FALLS APART — WHERE TO TURN📞 Suicide & Crisis Support

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for immediate emotional support, 24/7, anywhere in the U.S.

Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential crisis support via SMS.

Provides emergency shelter, crisis response, recovery assistance, and help after fires or natural disasters.
📞 1-800-RED-CROSS
🌐 redcross.org

Help for disaster recovery, temporary housing, financial aid, and rebuilding resources.
🌐 disasterassistance.gov

Provides immediate shelter, meals, clothing, and cleanup assistance.
🌐 disaster.salvationarmyusa.org

Dial 211 to connect with local food banks, housing support, financial aid, transportation, and senior services.
Free, confidential, 24/7.

Find local food banks anywhere in the U.S.
🌐 feedingamerica.org

Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788

Emergency help for pet boarding, veterinary care, and crisis support.
🌐 redrover.org

Many offer temporary pet housing or emergency food assistance.

❤️ A Reminder from J.T.’s Story:

“Even when everything is burning down around you… you still have to get up and feed the dogs.”
Sometimes the smallest responsibility is the anchor that keeps you moving forward.