Fictional character in A Christmas Carol by Dickens
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In this episode, Ishreen invites listeners to envision a transformative future of work, inspired by the spirit of Christmas. Drawing parallels to the story of Scrooge, the episode explores a world where diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are at the forefront, allowing everyone to learn and grow regardless of their background. With the help of AI and technology, workplaces become collaborative environments where knowledge is shared across generations, and personalized learning is accessible to all. KEY TAKEAWAYS Ishreen envisions a future where everyone has equal opportunities to learn and grow, supported by technology that enhances rather than replaces human roles. There is a call for schools and workplaces to collaborate in creating engaging learning programs that cater to diverse needs and backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging. Emphasising a humanity-centric perspective means prioritizing the well-being of all individuals and communities, rather than focusing solely on individual success. The future includes the use of AI and robots as supportive tools that handle mundane tasks, allowing individuals to focus on their passions and strengths. The message highlights that change is possible and encourages collective action to ensure that everyone has access to learning and growth opportunities, ultimately creating a brighter future for all. BEST MOMENTS "Imagine a world where everyone, no matter where they're from or how old they are, has a chance to learn and grow." "AI and robots are our helpers, not our replacements. They're like high-tech elves, making our work easier and more fun." "In this future, we need to focus on being humanity-centric rather than just human-centric." "Create workplaces where everyone's voice is heard, like a perfect Christmas carol where every note matters." "It's never too late to change and create a better future for everyone." VALUABLE RESOURCES Privilege Survey https://intelligentlinking261447.typeform.com/to/SNkQvD0v Website: https://belongingpioneers.com/privilege-research-and-podcast Email: equitychampions@belongingpioneers.com ABOUT THE HOSTS Ishreen Bradley, a Strategic Pioneer, excels in guiding Professional Leaders through complex challenges with clarity, confidence, and courage. She focuses on cultivating inclusive cultures and authentic leadership, offering senior leaders advice, consultancy, training, and coaching. https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishreenbradley-diversity-equity-inclusion-advisorPrivilege, Eruption, Culture, Diversity, inclusion, Equity, diverse, cultural, impact, power: https://privilege-eruption.com
What happens when Doug gets visited by three ghosts in the basement? A classic holiday story gets a Stacking Benjamins twist in this special episode. Inspired by A Christmas Carol, we explore lessons from the past, present, and future to help you make smarter money moves. From learning to avoid past financial missteps to balancing life's experiences with your financial goals, this episode blends memorable storytelling with practical advice. Along the way, Joe, OG, and Doug serve up clever banter, unexpected insights, and strategies you can put into action to ensure your finances stay merry and bright. What You'll Learn Today: How reflecting on financial mistakes can help shape smarter decisions. The importance of balancing money with life experiences in the present. Why intentionality and automation are the secret weapons for future financial success. Practical strategies to avoid the consequences of inaction. Episode Highlights: The team kicks off by debating the best versions of A Christmas Carol. Doug's journey begins with a visit from the Ghost of Christmas Past, offering lessons on overcoming financial missteps. The Ghost of Christmas Present emphasizes being mindful of your current financial habits and enjoying life without overindulgence. The Ghost of Christmas Future shows why planning and automating your finances now can save you from future regret. Practical advice on setting short- and long-term goals, creating financial intentionality, and balancing fun with financial responsibility. Why You Should Listen: If you've ever felt haunted by past money decisions, unsure about how to balance saving with spending, or overwhelmed by future financial planning, this episode is for you. It's a thoughtful, engaging, and surprisingly relatable take on holiday classics—with plenty of tips to ensure your financial wellness story has a happy ending. Gather around, grab some eggnog, and join us for a holiday tale that'll leave you inspired to tackle your finances with clarity and purpose. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/doug-and-the-three-ghosts-1620 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, the storyteller, Kathy Shimpock, will be reading Charles Dickens' masterpiece, A Christmas Carol. The work is a novella, first published in London by Chapman & Hall in 1843. Because of the story's length, it will be read over four episodes. This is chapter four and five (or what Dickens called Stave Four, The Last of the Spirits and Stave 5, The End of It). In this story Scrooge will have a visit from "Christmas Future." He will again visit the home of Bob Cratchit and discover the fate of Tiny Tim and of himself too. You'll find a link in the credits to the tale, so you can read along. At the end of each reading, there will be questions for you to journal and reflect on. My comments on A Christmas Carol can be found on my blog entitled, "Why We Remember A Christmas Carol." Although Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol long ago, this story is relevant for today.Story: A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story of Christmas by Charles Dickens (1843). A Christmas Carol Study Questions, East Tennessee State University. Illustration: Arthur Rackham, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.Music: The Snow Queen Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/. Sound effects from my finch "Tweedles."Copyright 2024 Kathy Shimpock. Support the showFor more crone tales, visit the "Wise Crone Cottage in the Woods" (http://www.wisecronecottage.com).
Christmas has come early with this special 100th episode of The Mate Debate! In fitting with the season you can think of this special episode as a spin on the Dickens classic 'A Christmas Carol'! In this rendition the Ghost of Christmas past is played by Alex while Zac and Morgan embody the Ghosts of Christmas present and newcomer AI is taking on the role of Christmas Future... Join us as we celebrate the updates and the downs of the last 100 episodes and usher in a new era of mating and debating!
Pastor Garry Clark continues his intriguing Christmas sermon series called, "My Christmas Carol." Last week we opened up the box and took a look at what presents the Lord gave him! In this message we'll go even further in Charles Dickens fashion by looking at what's to come.
Sleepy Time Tales Podcast – Creating a restful mindset through relaxing bedtime stories
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens – Christmas Present to the Future We pick up for this year's continuation of A Christmas Carol as Scrooge's time with the Ghost of Christmas Present starts to come to a close, and things take a dark turn. The Ghost of Christmas Future is here, and its somewhat macabre as we learn about a mysterious deceased person, the reactions to their passing and see their effects being sold off. But who is the subject? I'm sure we know, but you will be asleep before learning. Story (03:24) Find A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/19337 Supporting Sleepy Time Tales If you would like to support my work and help keep the podcast available and for free, there are several ways you can support the show. · You can support the show as a supporter on Patreon and receive a host of bonuses including Patron only episodes and special edits https://www.patreon.com/sleepytimetales · If you're enjoying Sleepy Time Tales and would like to make a financial contribution, but would rather not commit to a monthly payment then you can throw a tip in the jar at paypal.me/sleepytimetales Patreon Sleep Tight Patrons Jess Chris & Moya Chuck Mysti Roberta Charity Traci Emily Moya Brian Sandra Carla Joseph AY Greg Please Share If you're enjoying the show, and finding it helps you sleep despite the stresses and strains of your life, the absolute best thing you can do is share it with your friends, families, acquaintances, cellmates etc. Anyone who needs a good night's sleep might benefit. So please share it with the people in your life, whether in person or on social media. Find The Show Website: sleepytimetales.net Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/sleepytimetales Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sleepytimetalespodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SleepyTimeTales Merch: https://www.teepublic.com/?ref_id=25247 Project Gutenberg Terms of Use https://www.gutenberg.org/wiki/Gutenberg:Terms_of_Use
We conclude Scrooge's journey with the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come and explore how the birth of Christ provides a source of hope and the inspiration for a new beginning. December 22nd, 2024 | “The Hope of Christmas Future” | Rev. Dr. Sue Coller | First Presbyterian Church
Christmas Past, Present, and Future, Week 3Pastor Nathan Zickert · Luke 2:1-7A video recording of this sermon is available here.For more information about Grace Community Church of Riverside, visit us online at https://www.gccriverside.com.
So far, by looking at the lead up to the First Christmas, or Christmas PAST we saw that God always keeps his promises! Last week, we looked at the first Christmas Present and stripped off the veneer and white washing to learn that when God shows up, we should expect the unexpected! This week we move on to the First Christmas Future. If you would like to know more about MetaChurch and the movement of Jesus, we invite you to visit us at www.metachurch.tv.Support the show
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Jamie is at the controls and is joined by Rhys, Ed and Ian for some festive cheer. We are joined by the Ghost of Christmas Past to discuss our early memories of watching games, the Ghost of Christmas Present to discuss our favourite grounds, and then the Ghost of Christmas Future to talk about our ideal pre-season tour for next summer... It's a lot of fun, and hopefully whiles away the time for you on those long festive drives to visit family.We're taking a short break from podcasting duties and will be back around New Year's Eve with a wrapup of games against Franchise, Bromley and Walsall. If you want to come on the pod to discuss any of them, drop us a line via your social media platform of choice and we'd love to have you on.Thanks as always to the Riverside Sports Bar (the home of Welsh sports fans) for their valued support for the pod, and to Tinty & The Bucket Hats for letting us use Discoland as our theme tune. If you like what we do, sling us the cost of a mulled wine to our ko-fi page to help us with the pod's running costs.Best wishes for the festive break - and above all, as always, Keep It County! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Ghost of Christmas Future reveals the appalling events that will happen if Scrooge doesn't become a kinder man. Tiny Tim will die, and so will Scrooge, though no one will mourn him. Scrooge begs the Ghost for a chance to put things right.
You ever see a movie and think, “Damn, that dude needs therapy”? Well, that's Frank Cross, played by the one and only Bill Murray in Scrooged. He's a trash TV exec who hates Christmas so much it's like his side hustle. But don't worry—three ghosts are about to pop up and snatch his edges while teaching him how to be a decent human. It's chaotic, hilarious, and exactly what you'd expect from an 80s holiday comedy starring Murray. This week, we're unpacking all the holiday dysfunction, with jokes flying faster than Santa on Christmas Eve. Scrooged is a wild ride full of laughs, life lessons, and just the right amount of ghostly shade. So grab a drink (spiked, of course), kick back, and tune in. Because at the TruVue Podcast, it's not about the review—it's the conversation with the crew. We bring the barbershop talk to the box office, and we keep it real on the reels. This is NSFW holiday cheer at its finest, folks. Welcome to a Murray Christmas! Contact Us YouTube: TruVue Podcast Instagram: @truvuepodcast Facebook: TruVue Podcast X (Twitter): @truvue_ Email: TruVueSocial@gmail.com Website: TruVue Podcast LinkedIn: TruVue Podcast Fanbase: TruVue Podcast #murraychristmas #billmurray #scrooged1988 #truvuepodcast #christmasmovies #holidaycheer #moviepodcast #blackpodcasts #barbershoptalk #podcastersofinstagram
On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the biblical themes in A Christmas Carol before introducing Dr. Dwight Lindley. By taking this course, you'll learn profound lessons from the Ghosts of Christmas, explore the true meaning of Christmas through Scrooge's surprising encounters, and discover how to open yourself to life's many joys and blessings. The lonely, pathetic deathbed on which Scrooge finds himself is a stark contrast with the mourning Cratchit family, who still find joy and comfort in one another after the death of Tiny Tim. After seeing these bitter Christmases to come, Scrooge begs for a chance to make amends.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of The Hillsdale College Online Courses Podcast, Jeremiah and Juan discuss the biblical themes in A Christmas Carol before introducing Dr. Dwight Lindley. By taking this course, you'll learn profound lessons from the Ghosts of Christmas, explore the true meaning of Christmas through Scrooge's surprising encounters, and discover how to open yourself to life's many joys and blessings. The lonely, pathetic deathbed on which Scrooge finds himself is a stark contrast with the mourning Cratchit family, who still find joy and comfort in one another after the death of Tiny Tim. After seeing these bitter Christmases to come, Scrooge begs for a chance to make amends.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Ghostly Plea For Appreciation.Based on a post by SandyMarl, in 4 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories. A Christmas Ghost Story For ScroogeDana got ready to roll the movie as The Chix settled in. "What's the movie?" asked McNally."A Christmas Carol, it's the classic tale by Charles Dickens.""Damn. Not a Christmas movie? Did I ever mention that I am so over Christmas right now? Bah Humbug!"Annie snorted, "McNally, you make a better Scrooge than Patrick Stewart.""I'll drink to that," McNally said as she tipped her stemware to wash down a handful of popcorn. "Let me say it again, Merry Fucking Christmas, because I am so done with Christmas.""Merry Fucking Christmas" was echoed around the room, followed by giggles among gathered good friends as the opening scene played.Annie was dabbing at her eyes as Tiny Tim cried out in the movie's final scene, "God bless us, everyone!"As the credits rolled, Annie turned to McNally, "Well, Ebenezer Scrooge, do you still hate Christmas? Or did the ghost of Christmas Future shake you from your Bah Humbug! ways?""I don't hate Christmas; I just get worn out by this time of year. Christmas has been going on since before Halloween and that's way too long, even for a vibrant spirit like me," replied McNally."Are you still so entrenched in your 'Bah Humbug' world-weary ways Ebenezer McNally or is it possible that visitations of the cinematic Ghost of Christmas Past, Present and Future have softened your hardened holiday heart?" pried Patricia."Don't be picking on McNally, she's just been more emotionally honest. I have heard Scrooge speaking through all of you. Chix, take a look inside and tell me if Christmas hasn't lost its magic for all of us this year, or for that matter, several years running." Dana's call for introspection brought the room to silence.Dana continued, "Let me play Ghost of Christmas Past; let me take us back to time when we were young, and Sander and I stretched our budget and bought this cabin and had The Chix and their boys up here around Christmas time? Remember those times?""Those were the good days," recalled McNally. "I remember Orlando mixing exotic cocktails for everyone to try. The guys kept making sweet drinks and urging us girls to taste one new one after another. I'm sure they were in cahoots, working on the theory that 'Christmas candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker.'"Patricia chimed in, "Yeah, I remember that year, I remember laughing a lot of silly laughs and being chased around the cabin and out into the snow by three horny abominable snowmen until I finally let one catch me and haul me off to his lair where he threw me on the bed and ravaged me.""I sort of remember that too - only I think I enjoyed Orlando's cocktails too much too soon to fully remember every detail. But I have a vague memory of laughing on my way to a strange bed as I hung over Nelson's shoulder as I pounded on his back as a captured maiden, but not really feeling much distress. I remember trying to help Nelson undress me, but I was too giggly, so he just ripped my clothes off."Dana reminisced, "Anybody remember the year we all wore those sexy Santa's Naughty Elf costumes?""I still have mine in a closet somewhere I think," snickered McNally. "We put on a pretty good show for the guys that one year when we performed in those outfits. Thanks to Annie for sewing them," McNally tipped her glass toward Annie."It was your choreography McNally, and your audacious moves that gave me the confidence to bump and grind along with the rest of the Chix. I'd never have been able to even think of doing something so feminine and sexy if it weren't for you McNally," complimented Patricia."I still get wet every time I hear Eartha Kitt sing 'Santa Baby' and I think of how hot we Chix looked and how mercilessly we teased those boys," chuckled McNally."Speaking for me," said Patricia, "I'd say all of that dance practice and the sexy dance tips from everyone else showing me how to strut my wares. Our sexy little routine was well worth it a little later that night." All The Chix giggled and nodded with Patricia, each recalling the thrill of having their men rush the stage and cart off the four costumed naughty little helper elves for a roll in the sheets."Dana are you sure you're alright with us bringing up these memories?" asked Annie in a cautious tone."Annie, I've already told you that good memories and present friends are what are important to me tonight.""Allow me to play the Ghost of Christmas Present," said Dana in a soft voice. "If the Ghost of Christmas Past has drawn for you scenes of past holiday lovers, good times and Christmas cheer; what do you see when the Ghost of Christmas Present hovers above your lives tonight and points to your actions and attitudes of this present Christmas?"The Chix again sat thinking in silence.McNally answered Dana's challenge first, "Well, I've already told everyone my grim view of this present Christmas. There is a poverty of spirit where I operate; Christmas has become nothing but joyless deadlines for me. I'll confess, 'Bah Humbug!' is truly what the Ghost of Christmas Present is pointing at in my life.""Or would Scrooge use a more contemporary phrase, maybe something like 'Merry Fucking Christmas?" needled Patricia."Yeah but..." Annie joined in, "...Those really were Merry Fucking Christmases in the past - literally. Those years when we all used to come up here with our hubbies and enjoy playing games and cooking together, remember? And it seems like every night ended in a night of passionate love making," she added wistfully. "Why did we let that slip away? Where did the holiday love magic go?"I have a confession too, McNally has nothing on me, I'm just as much of a Bah Humbug personality as McNally - if not more so. Only I'm just a Scrooge still in the closet. I guess it's time I came out to my friends. It was me who first suggested that I'd be ready to exchange Nelson for someone to clean my house. Honestly, how Scrooge-like is that?"The Ghost of Christmas Past showed that Scrooge rejected his old flame, Belle, to pursue a respectable wealthy status above love. Like Scrooge, I've let the passion for my old flame, Nelson dim, and for what? A respectable status of a well cleaned house? I've been saying 'Bah Humbug!' from inside my Scrooge closet."I chided McNally for her poor attitude when we first drove up this afternoon," recalled Patricia. "But then I fell right in with her complaining about my grueling holiday schedule and all I had endured. So, I guess that makes me not only a Scrooge, but a hypocrite as well. How's that for a bare-bones confession to the Ghost of Christmas Present?" Dana's Christmas Ghost"Excuse me," declared a mildly irritated McNally, "enough indulging in this group psychotherapy playing with literary ghosts. I can't stand it any longer, I've gotta find out from Dana if Sander's ghost is really visiting us here."McNally's abrupt demand brought a heavy hush to the room.All eyes were locked on Dana. "All I can say is that I came up to our cabin for the first time since the accident. I hoped I was ready, but I wasn't sure. The real reason that I invited everyone to join me was so I couldn't back out, even if I wanted to, since I had extended an invitation to The Chix. Patricia, Annie, McNally; you're my insurance as I forced myself to be a brave widow."I came two days ago for solitude. I thought I would be alone up here. I hoped I'd be brave enough to finally be alone with my thoughts. I was going to force myself to stay here until reinforcements arrived in the form of a carload of wild, raucous and fun-loving Chix."To my surprise, I had it all wrong. I was not alone here. Sander was waiting for me. It was good to find him here; he has been a comfort for me. I told him I was sorry for making him wait. He let me know that he understood why I waited. He assured me that it was alright for me to wait, coming only after I was ready."When Sander came to me the first night, he comforted me, bringing good memories of us in this place, like the Ghost of Christmas Past. He reacquainted me with faded memories of Patricia and Will, Annie and Nelson and McNally and Orlando all gathered in this place with me and Sander back in those days at the beginning. The images he brought to me made me feel grateful for all of you."I told Sander that those were lovely, warm memories, some of the best; but that they were far in the dim past. When Sander wrapped those memories around me; I felt warmth and saw a radiating brightness, happy for what we had once shared together. He said that that is why he had to brighten them for me; otherwise, neither I nor anyone else in those images would be able to clearly see them as they once were."I began to cry as those bright images of our past passions and fellowship with our friends began to fade before my eyes. I cried even more at the fear of losing him and everything good once again."He warned me that squandered time, tyranny of the mundane and careless love will steal from the human soul, draining the treasures of passion and good memories, leaving murky, pathetic sketches in place of those forgotten treasures. Sander let me know that I still had all of you wrapped around me to shield me with love. He was pleased that The Chix had taken such good care of me after he was taken from me."Sander told me he could not keep the past images bright, the power to do so was only given to the realm of the living."I cried in my grief and in my fresh fear of loss. I tried to hold him, but of course, I could not. I pleaded, 'How can I keep those memories of you and warm feelings bright?' I didn't know how to find the power to keep from losing all that was meaningful to me. I cried, 'Please Sander, show me, show me how not to lose you and everything again. Don't let me drain away into the murky darkness where all warmth and love have been stolen from the human soul.'"I cried, kneeling on the floor. Sander said nothing as he stood close to me as a kind and gentle spirit with a comforting patience waiting for me to finish my hot tears. When I wiped away my tears and looked into his face, he pointed and guided me to look for my answer. I saw The Chix checking their messages, returning calls, checking their calendars trying to squeeze in a meeting, an appointment and a Christmas cookie exchange. I saw that we were rushing to the shopping mall, ordering online, checking our phones and returning home exhausted, drained of warmth and love, leaving nothing for those around us."I was shown Will, Nelson and Orlando taking the cars in for servicing because it was time. I saw these men checking their messages and making out-of-the way runs to pick up store items and a few groceries because their wives had sent them a text message. I witnessed The Dix on their own initiative coming home with a takeout meal that they served to their exhausted wives and then taking out the trash the night before pickup without a reminder. The guys were up late at night, opening the bills and writing the household checks and balancing the accounts, toiling like the loyal Bob Cratchit, Scrooge's unappreciated clerk. I had been shown Christmas Present. I was sad to have seen that exhausted misery spread to all of our present lives."I cried, 'Oh Sander, where is the joy and the love for our friends? Everyone looks so exhausted and joyless and without hope or purpose. Tell me Sander, what is going to happen to them?' Sander looked sad and did not answer me."He began to fade into the darkness, and I begged with renewed tears, 'Sander please don't go, please don't leave me alone again.' But he was gone.I crawled off the floor, lifting myself into bed and cried myself to sleep. I remembered his words, 'Squandered time, tyranny of the mundane and careless love will steal from the human soul, draining the treasures of passion and good memories and leaving murky, pathetic sketches in place of those forgotten treasures.'"When Sander slipped away from me that night, I understood that he had shown me that the same was happening to Orlando and McNally, Will and Patricia and also to Nelson and Annie. His visit was a warning. Just as I lost Sander, everyone here is facing a Christmas Future where you will discover that you've lost all that really matters in life."Sander came again the next night. I was glad to see him. I wanted to know if it was too late for our friends to rekindle the love that had somehow drained away. 'Please, Sander, tell me that there is yet hope for them this Christmas Season,' I begged."He showed me some bright and warm memories from long ago, some personal and some with The Chix. He showed me those visions to let me know that I still had love and support from you guys. But I was haunted by those visions of Christmas Present that I'd been shown the night before. He was happy that I was so well cared for now. And yes, he was happy to know that I got surprised by some needed loving attention from a partridge, a turtle dove hunter and an old barnyard rooster who had a few tricks to make a French hen cackle. Yet, the peril of the bleak Christmas Present remains, unless friendship and love is cherished and attended, it too will soon perish, and I'll see my friends fade away into murky darkness as Sander had."Again, I looked into his gentle eyes and asked, 'There is still time isn't there? We haven't squandered our time, it's not too late, tell me sweetheart, there are warm and bright memories of love and affection still to be made, nourished and cherished.' Sander smiled his warm smile of assurance that I had missed so much, and I was happy."I woke, realizing that the sun was shining off a fresh morning snowfall and I threw off my heavy quilt. I sat up in bed, remembering that on our last morning together; Sander had been working on something secret that morning before the accident. I remembered asking him, 'Sweetie buns, what are you working on the hill behind the cabin?'"He smiled that warm, smug smile of mischief on that last morning that we were together and told me, 'I've got a Christmas surprise to show you tonight, it has to be revealed once it is dark. So, you'll have to wait until we finish a few runs on the slopes this afternoon.'"Of course, we never came back here together. I had forgotten about Sander's promised secret Christmas surprise until yesterday morning. When Sander told me he had a Christmas gift waiting for me after dark, he was holding an electrical extension cord behind his back with his mischievous smile stretched across his ski slope tanned face. 'I'll plug this in to brighten your night tonight, as a token of how you have brightened my life,' he said. Recalling some of his last words, I jumped out of bed and checked this morning; that cord is still lying on the deck where Sander left it last year.Annie was crying, as usual, but so were Patricia and McNally.Dana reached for her purse and pulled out her phone and looked at her messages and began to text, as The Chix took a few moments to rein in their emotions and check their composure before speaking or asking Dana any questions.Annie brushed her cheeks, "Oh Dana, that is the sweetest, saddest story I've ever heard... Excuse me, I can't stop weeping... I don't even know if these are tears of joy or grief... excuse me, I don't know what to feel or say," she said as the flood gates reopened.Patricia felt it was her role to wade in and tidy things up and drain the emotional swamp in which they all found themselves wallowing in. "Dana, it sounds like you've started to find some peace after last year's events. I am glad that you shared with us how you are coping with Sander's passing...""Patricia, Jesus Christ on a bicycle! Don't be such a cold and analytical mother hen all the time for us Chix. Dana's story is not about coping, it's about us - all of us and all that we once had and what we might lose, including Will, Nelson and yes, Orlando too. Dana, your conversation with Sander really got to me there..." McNally paused, looking emotionally rattled."I guess everyone can tell, your story about Sander got to me also," said Annie after managing to dry out enough. "I feel like McNally. Dana, what you said really touched me; I don't know what to say... Yes, I actually do, I want to say that what Sander said is right; my joy has been stolen from my soul, I feel drained inside, I have let the things I hold most dear fade away. I am Scrooge - and I'm sorry, but so are all of you."Turning to Patricia, Annie asked, "Don't you feel what McNally and I feel? Don't you feel that you and I and McNally, and certainly Dana, have lost something precious? Together as The Chix, we are a sum greater the whole - and that has, or should, include our husbands. I believe Sander told Dana to warn us all before it is too late. Patricia, don't you feel like me that we should do something before the Ghost of Christmas Future makes the vision of an estranged and murky end to all that we enjoy a grim reality?"Patricia teared up and nodded silently. Then lifting her head, she asked Dana, "Is there hope? Did Sander give you hope for us?""There is hope. There is still love here, and where there is love, there is hope. Sander showed me that the future can be changed by what we do now. Sander showed me that there is hope for us, hope for The Chix.""And... And... What is that hope?" asked McNally. "And... And... And I got lots of questions about you and Sander up here in this cabin, but first - that was a gripping Christmas ghost story with Sander, but it seemed kind of weird that as soon as you finished driving your emotional steamroller full speed over our sympathies that you then broke character, ignoring us to check your phone. Isn't checking your messages part of that tyranny of the mundane that Sander warned you about? Who is so important that you were texting them rather than dealing with us in this room and our emotions?""The Ghost or the Ghosts of Christmas Future," was Dana's curt, cryptic reply."You asked about our future, you asked about hope; I don't know exactly how to answer those questions," said a thoughtful Dana. "But I know where I want to look for starters. There is Sander's unrevealed Christmas surprise waiting for me - or us, on top of the hill behind the cabin. It was Sander's last gift. Everyone, dress in your ugliest Christmas sweater and pull on some holiday woolies and come with me to see what's up there."What do you think it is, Dana?" asked Annie."I think it is wonderful and special, Sander was so good at that kind of thing. Other than that, as I said, I only remembered it this morning. I think that it's fitting that it happened to be left there to be revealed to me in the future. I think it's a sign." Bright Angel On High - The Gift Of The Ghost Of Christmas FutureThe four Chix marched up the trail behind the cabin, following in the footprints Dana pressed into the fresh, moonlit snow that was smooth and crisp and even. All the ladies came to the brow of the hill, ready to mount the crest, expecting to view Sander's waiting surprise. Dana let out an exasperated half sight, half scream. "Ah! I forgot - or didn't think to remember that I needed to plug in the cord that Sander had run up the hill to his surprise gift." Dana broke down crying, "Everything is ruined. I wanted to see Sander's last gift and now the surprise is ruined." Dana buried her head in her mittens as her shoulders shook in choking sobs of disappointment and grief. "I failed Sander and his memory," she wailed.Annie, McNally, and Patricia swarmed around Dana, throwing their arms around her to console her. Patricia was about to explain to Dana that the problem could be solved, she would just go back down and plug the cord into the electrical socket and fix the oversight. Simple. No need for tears. Patricia's unhelpful words pointing out the simple fix to Dana's overwrought emotions never passed her lips."Ooh, look!" gasped Annie. "There it is! Look Dana, it's beautiful. Look up in that big Christmas tree, it is so magical. It's from heaven." Annie was hopping and pointing into a spruce on the other side of the dark clearing. Dana looked up, her legs turned to jelly, her heart shot out of her chest, taking with it every last oxygen molecule from her lungs. Dana stood in silence surrounded by her friends but felt as if she were floating to the stars as she marveled at Sander's creation.The figure of a magnificent, bright angel glowed from the boughs with a million tiny, warm lights. Dana threw her hands to her cheeks in stunned amazement, feeling a wash of warm blessings surge through her body."Absolutely amazing," marveled McNally. "Oh Dana, this is so inspiring. Sander sure had an innovative spirit combined with his refined talent to create such a masterful surprise. It's the most gorgeous, stunning angel I've ever seen. I know this is quite meaningful to you."The Chix huddled tight in the brisk night air, spellbound in wonder under the illuminated gaze of the angel on high. A Wild Ride DownThey jumped in unison with a startled twitch as the crystalline silence was shattered by a male voice ringing out from the dark woods behind the spruce where the angel floated.The voice made a short, "Ho!" sound. Followed by a second male voice, echoing the same "Ho!" and then another mysterious "Ho!" was spoken by another man.The women stared into the gloom beyond the angel. Was it a sound effect by Sander's angel or was someone watching them from the woods? "Hello. Who's there?" shouted Patricia.Her question was answered by three quick 'Ho, Ho Ho's' from three hidden men. Three dark figures rushed from the shadows toward the women, pushing three toboggans in front of them. Annie, McNally, and Patricia clustered close in around Dana in a scared, defensive move.In an instant Nelson, Orlando and Will burst into recognizable range of their wives, scooping them up and depositing each of them onto the toboggans. Orlando gave Dana a tug, throwing her behind McNally. With a whoosh before any of the ladies knew what was happening, they found themselves careening downhill in the darkness along the path which they had climbed a few minutes earlier. The night air was filled with screams and laughs as The Chix and their Dix flew with abandon down the wooded slope. The Chix shrieked like young schoolgirls at their quick abduction and wild ride.At the base of the slope, to avoid hitting the cabin, the men had to tip the toboggans, spilling everyone into the snow. Still in a breathless uproar, the ladies scrambled to their knees and feet and began to dump snow on the guys as they continued in a giddy, frolicking mood.The men rose from their vulnerable positions and the women ran. The men chased and the women got caught and tackled into the snow, where there was a flurry of rolling and tumbling bodies amid whoops and high spirits. The Chix all ended up getting pinned beneath their man and enjoying it before they were extracted and lifted to their feet."C'mon inside everybody!" shout a gleeful Dana. Nelson wrapped one arm around Annie and one around Dana as he ushered the two toward the cabin's deck."Wait! The gifts, damn it, we've got to recover the gifts," moaned Will."Are they at the bottom of the hill with the sleds, or did they fall off back uphill?" asked Orlando."Hell, I don't know Orlando. Send the women folk inside, we'll have to bring 'em in once we find them," replied a less than gracious Will."There're gifts for us?" asked Annie as she broke out from under her husband's arm and led the way to look for her lost gift in the snow drifts. McNally and Patricia were joined by Dana as they turned to search for their gifts too."I found one," announced Will as he stooped to dig it out of the snow. "I think this one belongs to..."Patricia gave him a boot in the bum, forcing a frozen face plant into a snowbank. She whooped with delight at her playful stunt and then turned on her heels as Will chased her and brought her down into the snow on top of him where he copped a feel and rolled his wife over and gave her a spank with his gloved hand.Dana found a wrapped gift, "I found one! Who wants this present?"McNally raced over and said, "I'll take that mystery gift," snatching it from Dana's upheld arms.Nelson looked and said, "Oh no you don't McNally, that is supposed to be Annie's." He gave chase and McNally tucked her box under her jacket and ran.Nelson quickly caught up to McNally in the drifts and swooped down on her, rummaging under her jacket feeling for the stolen box. McNally shifted and made sure that Nelson got to squeeze a couple of wrapped wonders in his search before he found Annie's intended present."Hey Nelson, what are you doing with my wife?" asked Orlando in a mock menacing tone as he strode over to McNally. He pulled her out of Nelson's clutches, grabbing her hand and lifting her up."Come with me young lady, I got something better for you. Help me find a lost partridge parcel and I'll make sure he finds a nice nest in your pear tree."McNally turned her head to Nelson, "Sorry Nelly-boy, it was fun while it lasted, but I just got a better offer." She pecked Orlando on the cheek as they went off arm-in-arm in search of the last spilled Christmas package."All presents, present and accounted for!" announce Orlando as he plucked a gift box from beneath an overturned toboggan."Y'all c'mon, my offer still stands, everyone inside," yelled Dana. Nelson rushed back to put his arm around Dana and escort her inside as the rest of the reunited Chix and Dix tramped through the snow following them into the cabin.Inside, Dana announced, "I'm going to be making a batch of my rich hot chocolate, the traditional drink for ski cabin gathering of The Chix and The Dix." Everyone cheered as Dana stepped into her kitchen.Orlando opened the cupboard, "Hey Dana, what happened to the bottle of peppermint schnapps that used to be here?"Dana tipped her head and pointed her finger into the hollow of her cheek, giving Orlando a ditzy look; "I wonder, who around here would remember that old bottle of peppermint schnapps you gave to us after all these years?"McNally, right on cue, "I've got a good memory for things like that - in fact that 'old bottle' that we gave you and Sander has just come out of the closet and has already made his presence felt. He's right here." McNally lifted the schnapps bottle off the coffee table and showed it to her inquiring husband. "It's like this old bottle is helping rekindle memories of good times past and maybe a talisman for reigniting passions that have faded.""That old bottle holds the Ghost of Christmas Past, out of it pours hope - it's not too late for us!" surmised Patricia. The Chix all yelled an enthusiastic cheer at Patricia's words, which Orlando, Will and Nelson found puzzling."But he is almost used up I am sad to say," informed McNally as she shook the schnapps bottle."Not to fear, I packed his younger brother," mentioned Orlando, "it's in with my stuff where we parked down the road, waiting for Dana's 'all clear' text. I'll bring it up later - unless we need him to rescue us right now.""The new bottle comes with the Ghost of Christmas Future inside," proclaimed Annie, "I feel that out of that bottle will pour a bright and renewed future for all of us." Annie's thoughts brought another hearty cheer from all of the ladies. The men were mystified by the response, but pleased the girls were getting worked up over some spirits in a schnapps bottle."Hey guys, when do we get to open our presents?" asked Annie.The men all looked over to Dana. Dana exploded into a sweet, sly smile. "Here's the plan y'all; I'm making a double batch of traditional hot chocolate, the first round we drink to Christmas Past and use up the old bottle. The second round, we drink to Christmas Future, and we break out the new bottle. Orlando, you are excused to go get that bottle right now. But don't tarry, there are a bunch of eager beavers waiting to open up their gifts." She gave a salacious, knowing wink to each man. "Now git, Mr. Partridge, the night is young, and we can't start the festivities without you."Orlando drove the car up to the cabin from its hiding place where they waited for Dana's text to tell them they should get in place at the top of the hill to surprise their wives. He came waltzing in with the unopened peppermint schnapps bottle. The women served the steaming mugs to their men, McNally distributed an even pour from the old bottle into each cup so that there was enough of the elixir to go around before the last drop dripped into her foaming mug.Dana lifted her stein, "A toast to the fond and wonderful memories of good times past!""I'll drink to that," said Patricia with a laugh. "There, I beat you to it, McNally." Everyone laughed.When the second round was poured and fortified, Dana offered a second toast, "A toast to fond memories of old, may they only serve as a foundation for the many bright and wonderful memories to come, bringing a future filled with hope and passion for all!"The Chix were eyeing the wrapped packages in the center of the room, and after some reminiscing and conversations, Annie again asked, "When are we going to get to open those packages?"The men deferred to Dana. Dana put her stein down and surveyed the room with a sweet and sly smile that had reemerged. "First, I know I invited Patricia, Annie and McNally up here on the pretense that I would tell you girls in person how much I enjoyed being on your naughty list. I want to thank you for turning our Christmas cookie exchange into a hubby exchange. There is no way to really find the words to say how special and loved and deliciously naughty the gift of your men made me feel on this dread holiday without Sander. Each of the guys was special, tender, loving and fun and fulfilling. And since there is no way to tell you how it felt, I took the advice from an old writer's adage; show, don't tell."I know in some circles re-gifting is considered a social faux pas, but in this case, I feel it is a wonderful, shared secret among the best of friends. I ask you to open up your packages and enjoy. As it has oft been said around here lately, Merry Fucking Christmas."McNally, Annie, and Patricia tore into their boxes, squealing in an excited tempered with shy embarrassment at the contents that had come back their way. McNally's box contained a couple of fresh, juicy pears, a bottle of lubricant that Orlando had artfully relabeled 'Partridge Oil' with instructions that said, 'pairs well with pecker and pussy'. Annie's box had a rich assortment of dark chocolate candy turtles, a small bottle of chocolate syrup and a little note instructing the owner to apply a liberal amount on her 'doves' as bait if she wanted to be a 'master baiter' and charm a fabulous trouser snake. Patricia was delighted to find a vibrating egg in her box, curious beyond belief and surprised by the fast-rising tide of wetness under her longjanes."Oh! Dana, you didn't get a gift," sympathized Annie."Oh, but I did. I've already peeked inside all of your packages - if you know what I mean, and I think you do; that's why I know everyone is in for a wonderful night on this Fourth Day of Christmas. My gift is to enjoy being the one to transform all of us Scrooges and bring the joy back into our lives, like Christmas Past. My hope has been fulfilled; I see that Christmas Future is now bright."God bless us, everyone!" cheered Patricia, repeating Tiny Tim's final line of Dickens's Christmas Carol.All seven joined in, repeating the blessing, "God bless us, everyone!""But still. Dana," Annie persisted, "I feel that it's not the same for you or for us without Sander. If Sander is still alright with it, I think maybe sometimes I can put my ol' goat Nelson here, out to pasture. That's if you need or want some intimate care now and then. Just ask." Annie blushed, put her hand on Nelson's leg and looked at her husband before lunging to hug him tight as she shed a tear."McNally are you going to match Annie's and my offer to our lonely friend?" asked Patricia with a playful smirk."As I said after The Chix cookie exchange, 'It's three or it's zero when it comes to The Chix hubby exchange. Of course, I'm in and I'll speak for Orlando on this as well.""This is only the Fourth Day of Christmas," figured Nelson, "what are we going to do for the remaining eight days?""There are seven of us here, it seems fitting that I heat up the hot tub, it seems like the perfect place to find 'Seven swans a swimming'. I'm game if the rest of us are," offered Will. Will's idea was greeted with hearty laughs of ascent."I can't wait to find out what someone will do with 'five golden rings,''' said McNally, giving a sexy little shimmy shake."I like the idea of 'maids a milking'" contributed Orlando as he licked his lips in an overtly sensual manner and flexed his fingers in a breast-milking motion."Not before we all get to have our 'lords a leaping,' that includes Dana," negotiated Patricia."Dana are you alright with this?" asked Annie, not sure if their widowed friend was feeling excluded."Annie, I'm fine, I really am. But I'm feeling a little bit shy about participating in the hubby exchange. But I'm also excited to sample the spicy variety now and again with what you Chix are willing to share with me. I love The Chix and The Dix."McNally plucked the pair of pears from the box in her lap, holding them by their stems and dangling them in front of her nipples which were showing through her top. "Orlando here has some low-hanging fruit to pick, if you'll excuse us," she mentioned in a husky voice."I've got a new egg, and I'm in the mood to get laid," Patricia said as she held up her vibrator.Nelson stood and took Annie's hand to escort her to their room. Annie paused, "Dana, are you going to be lonely and sad tonight?""I don't think so. I'm quite happy right now. You kids run along and have fun, I think I'll go back up the hill and be with my Sander Angel."Dana, put on her hat and gloves, turning to everyone in the room, "Who do I have to thank for remembering to plug in Sander's bright angel gift?" She looked from face to face to face. No one acknowledged the deed."Dana, we were all with you at the top of the dark hill, you know that" said Patricia after a long silence."We were hiding in the woods for about ten minutes after you texted us, Dana. We were waiting for you to show up, we didn't know what to expect," offered Will. "It couldn't have been anyone in this room."Annie let out a gasp and covered her mouth, gaping in surprise. "Do you think it could have been...""I'm sure of it. It's a sign," said Dana with a beaming smile. "Excuse me, I think Sander is waiting for me, I don't want to keep him waiting," as she closed the door behind her. A Merry Fucking ChristmasDana slipped back into the cabin after spending some time with Sander's angel. There were quiet moans and soft purrs seeping out from under closed doors when she tip-toed down the hall. In an understated, but audible voice, she called out, "Merry fucking Christmas, and to all a naughty good night."Dana heard laughs and giggles coming softly from behind three closed doors. "Merry fucking Christmas," came the response called back to her from behind three closed doors. She slipped under her covers, warmed by sweet memories and hopes for the future while visions of sugar plums danced in her head.Based on a post by SandyMarl, for Literotica.
A Ghostly Plea For Appreciation.Based on a post by SandyMarl, in 4 parts. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories. A Christmas Ghost Story For ScroogeDana got ready to roll the movie as The Chix settled in. "What's the movie?" asked McNally."A Christmas Carol, it's the classic tale by Charles Dickens.""Damn. Not a Christmas movie? Did I ever mention that I am so over Christmas right now? Bah Humbug!"Annie snorted, "McNally, you make a better Scrooge than Patrick Stewart.""I'll drink to that," McNally said as she tipped her stemware to wash down a handful of popcorn. "Let me say it again, Merry Fucking Christmas, because I am so done with Christmas.""Merry Fucking Christmas" was echoed around the room, followed by giggles among gathered good friends as the opening scene played.Annie was dabbing at her eyes as Tiny Tim cried out in the movie's final scene, "God bless us, everyone!"As the credits rolled, Annie turned to McNally, "Well, Ebenezer Scrooge, do you still hate Christmas? Or did the ghost of Christmas Future shake you from your Bah Humbug! ways?""I don't hate Christmas; I just get worn out by this time of year. Christmas has been going on since before Halloween and that's way too long, even for a vibrant spirit like me," replied McNally."Are you still so entrenched in your 'Bah Humbug' world-weary ways Ebenezer McNally or is it possible that visitations of the cinematic Ghost of Christmas Past, Present and Future have softened your hardened holiday heart?" pried Patricia."Don't be picking on McNally, she's just been more emotionally honest. I have heard Scrooge speaking through all of you. Chix, take a look inside and tell me if Christmas hasn't lost its magic for all of us this year, or for that matter, several years running." Dana's call for introspection brought the room to silence.Dana continued, "Let me play Ghost of Christmas Past; let me take us back to time when we were young, and Sander and I stretched our budget and bought this cabin and had The Chix and their boys up here around Christmas time? Remember those times?""Those were the good days," recalled McNally. "I remember Orlando mixing exotic cocktails for everyone to try. The guys kept making sweet drinks and urging us girls to taste one new one after another. I'm sure they were in cahoots, working on the theory that 'Christmas candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker.'"Patricia chimed in, "Yeah, I remember that year, I remember laughing a lot of silly laughs and being chased around the cabin and out into the snow by three horny abominable snowmen until I finally let one catch me and haul me off to his lair where he threw me on the bed and ravaged me.""I sort of remember that too - only I think I enjoyed Orlando's cocktails too much too soon to fully remember every detail. But I have a vague memory of laughing on my way to a strange bed as I hung over Nelson's shoulder as I pounded on his back as a captured maiden, but not really feeling much distress. I remember trying to help Nelson undress me, but I was too giggly, so he just ripped my clothes off."Dana reminisced, "Anybody remember the year we all wore those sexy Santa's Naughty Elf costumes?""I still have mine in a closet somewhere I think," snickered McNally. "We put on a pretty good show for the guys that one year when we performed in those outfits. Thanks to Annie for sewing them," McNally tipped her glass toward Annie."It was your choreography McNally, and your audacious moves that gave me the confidence to bump and grind along with the rest of the Chix. I'd never have been able to even think of doing something so feminine and sexy if it weren't for you McNally," complimented Patricia."I still get wet every time I hear Eartha Kitt sing 'Santa Baby' and I think of how hot we Chix looked and how mercilessly we teased those boys," chuckled McNally."Speaking for me," said Patricia, "I'd say all of that dance practice and the sexy dance tips from everyone else showing me how to strut my wares. Our sexy little routine was well worth it a little later that night." All The Chix giggled and nodded with Patricia, each recalling the thrill of having their men rush the stage and cart off the four costumed naughty little helper elves for a roll in the sheets."Dana are you sure you're alright with us bringing up these memories?" asked Annie in a cautious tone."Annie, I've already told you that good memories and present friends are what are important to me tonight.""Allow me to play the Ghost of Christmas Present," said Dana in a soft voice. "If the Ghost of Christmas Past has drawn for you scenes of past holiday lovers, good times and Christmas cheer; what do you see when the Ghost of Christmas Present hovers above your lives tonight and points to your actions and attitudes of this present Christmas?"The Chix again sat thinking in silence.McNally answered Dana's challenge first, "Well, I've already told everyone my grim view of this present Christmas. There is a poverty of spirit where I operate; Christmas has become nothing but joyless deadlines for me. I'll confess, 'Bah Humbug!' is truly what the Ghost of Christmas Present is pointing at in my life.""Or would Scrooge use a more contemporary phrase, maybe something like 'Merry Fucking Christmas?" needled Patricia."Yeah but..." Annie joined in, "...Those really were Merry Fucking Christmases in the past - literally. Those years when we all used to come up here with our hubbies and enjoy playing games and cooking together, remember? And it seems like every night ended in a night of passionate love making," she added wistfully. "Why did we let that slip away? Where did the holiday love magic go?"I have a confession too, McNally has nothing on me, I'm just as much of a Bah Humbug personality as McNally - if not more so. Only I'm just a Scrooge still in the closet. I guess it's time I came out to my friends. It was me who first suggested that I'd be ready to exchange Nelson for someone to clean my house. Honestly, how Scrooge-like is that?"The Ghost of Christmas Past showed that Scrooge rejected his old flame, Belle, to pursue a respectable wealthy status above love. Like Scrooge, I've let the passion for my old flame, Nelson dim, and for what? A respectable status of a well cleaned house? I've been saying 'Bah Humbug!' from inside my Scrooge closet."I chided McNally for her poor attitude when we first drove up this afternoon," recalled Patricia. "But then I fell right in with her complaining about my grueling holiday schedule and all I had endured. So, I guess that makes me not only a Scrooge, but a hypocrite as well. How's that for a bare-bones confession to the Ghost of Christmas Present?" Dana's Christmas Ghost"Excuse me," declared a mildly irritated McNally, "enough indulging in this group psychotherapy playing with literary ghosts. I can't stand it any longer, I've gotta find out from Dana if Sander's ghost is really visiting us here."McNally's abrupt demand brought a heavy hush to the room.All eyes were locked on Dana. "All I can say is that I came up to our cabin for the first time since the accident. I hoped I was ready, but I wasn't sure. The real reason that I invited everyone to join me was so I couldn't back out, even if I wanted to, since I had extended an invitation to The Chix. Patricia, Annie, McNally; you're my insurance as I forced myself to be a brave widow."I came two days ago for solitude. I thought I would be alone up here. I hoped I'd be brave enough to finally be alone with my thoughts. I was going to force myself to stay here until reinforcements arrived in the form of a carload of wild, raucous and fun-loving Chix."To my surprise, I had it all wrong. I was not alone here. Sander was waiting for me. It was good to find him here; he has been a comfort for me. I told him I was sorry for making him wait. He let me know that he understood why I waited. He assured me that it was alright for me to wait, coming only after I was ready."When Sander came to me the first night, he comforted me, bringing good memories of us in this place, like the Ghost of Christmas Past. He reacquainted me with faded memories of Patricia and Will, Annie and Nelson and McNally and Orlando all gathered in this place with me and Sander back in those days at the beginning. The images he brought to me made me feel grateful for all of you."I told Sander that those were lovely, warm memories, some of the best; but that they were far in the dim past. When Sander wrapped those memories around me; I felt warmth and saw a radiating brightness, happy for what we had once shared together. He said that that is why he had to brighten them for me; otherwise, neither I nor anyone else in those images would be able to clearly see them as they once were."I began to cry as those bright images of our past passions and fellowship with our friends began to fade before my eyes. I cried even more at the fear of losing him and everything good once again."He warned me that squandered time, tyranny of the mundane and careless love will steal from the human soul, draining the treasures of passion and good memories, leaving murky, pathetic sketches in place of those forgotten treasures. Sander let me know that I still had all of you wrapped around me to shield me with love. He was pleased that The Chix had taken such good care of me after he was taken from me."Sander told me he could not keep the past images bright, the power to do so was only given to the realm of the living."I cried in my grief and in my fresh fear of loss. I tried to hold him, but of course, I could not. I pleaded, 'How can I keep those memories of you and warm feelings bright?' I didn't know how to find the power to keep from losing all that was meaningful to me. I cried, 'Please Sander, show me, show me how not to lose you and everything again. Don't let me drain away into the murky darkness where all warmth and love have been stolen from the human soul.'"I cried, kneeling on the floor. Sander said nothing as he stood close to me as a kind and gentle spirit with a comforting patience waiting for me to finish my hot tears. When I wiped away my tears and looked into his face, he pointed and guided me to look for my answer. I saw The Chix checking their messages, returning calls, checking their calendars trying to squeeze in a meeting, an appointment and a Christmas cookie exchange. I saw that we were rushing to the shopping mall, ordering online, checking our phones and returning home exhausted, drained of warmth and love, leaving nothing for those around us."I was shown Will, Nelson and Orlando taking the cars in for servicing because it was time. I saw these men checking their messages and making out-of-the way runs to pick up store items and a few groceries because their wives had sent them a text message. I witnessed The Dix on their own initiative coming home with a takeout meal that they served to their exhausted wives and then taking out the trash the night before pickup without a reminder. The guys were up late at night, opening the bills and writing the household checks and balancing the accounts, toiling like the loyal Bob Cratchit, Scrooge's unappreciated clerk. I had been shown Christmas Present. I was sad to have seen that exhausted misery spread to all of our present lives."I cried, 'Oh Sander, where is the joy and the love for our friends? Everyone looks so exhausted and joyless and without hope or purpose. Tell me Sander, what is going to happen to them?' Sander looked sad and did not answer me."He began to fade into the darkness, and I begged with renewed tears, 'Sander please don't go, please don't leave me alone again.' But he was gone.I crawled off the floor, lifting myself into bed and cried myself to sleep. I remembered his words, 'Squandered time, tyranny of the mundane and careless love will steal from the human soul, draining the treasures of passion and good memories and leaving murky, pathetic sketches in place of those forgotten treasures.'"When Sander slipped away from me that night, I understood that he had shown me that the same was happening to Orlando and McNally, Will and Patricia and also to Nelson and Annie. His visit was a warning. Just as I lost Sander, everyone here is facing a Christmas Future where you will discover that you've lost all that really matters in life."Sander came again the next night. I was glad to see him. I wanted to know if it was too late for our friends to rekindle the love that had somehow drained away. 'Please, Sander, tell me that there is yet hope for them this Christmas Season,' I begged."He showed me some bright and warm memories from long ago, some personal and some with The Chix. He showed me those visions to let me know that I still had love and support from you guys. But I was haunted by those visions of Christmas Present that I'd been shown the night before. He was happy that I was so well cared for now. And yes, he was happy to know that I got surprised by some needed loving attention from a partridge, a turtle dove hunter and an old barnyard rooster who had a few tricks to make a French hen cackle. Yet, the peril of the bleak Christmas Present remains, unless friendship and love is cherished and attended, it too will soon perish, and I'll see my friends fade away into murky darkness as Sander had."Again, I looked into his gentle eyes and asked, 'There is still time isn't there? We haven't squandered our time, it's not too late, tell me sweetheart, there are warm and bright memories of love and affection still to be made, nourished and cherished.' Sander smiled his warm smile of assurance that I had missed so much, and I was happy."I woke, realizing that the sun was shining off a fresh morning snowfall and I threw off my heavy quilt. I sat up in bed, remembering that on our last morning together; Sander had been working on something secret that morning before the accident. I remembered asking him, 'Sweetie buns, what are you working on the hill behind the cabin?'"He smiled that warm, smug smile of mischief on that last morning that we were together and told me, 'I've got a Christmas surprise to show you tonight, it has to be revealed once it is dark. So, you'll have to wait until we finish a few runs on the slopes this afternoon.'"Of course, we never came back here together. I had forgotten about Sander's promised secret Christmas surprise until yesterday morning. When Sander told me he had a Christmas gift waiting for me after dark, he was holding an electrical extension cord behind his back with his mischievous smile stretched across his ski slope tanned face. 'I'll plug this in to brighten your night tonight, as a token of how you have brightened my life,' he said. Recalling some of his last words, I jumped out of bed and checked this morning; that cord is still lying on the deck where Sander left it last year.Annie was crying, as usual, but so were Patricia and McNally.Dana reached for her purse and pulled out her phone and looked at her messages and began to text, as The Chix took a few moments to rein in their emotions and check their composure before speaking or asking Dana any questions.Annie brushed her cheeks, "Oh Dana, that is the sweetest, saddest story I've ever heard... Excuse me, I can't stop weeping... I don't even know if these are tears of joy or grief... excuse me, I don't know what to feel or say," she said as the flood gates reopened.Patricia felt it was her role to wade in and tidy things up and drain the emotional swamp in which they all found themselves wallowing in. "Dana, it sounds like you've started to find some peace after last year's events. I am glad that you shared with us how you are coping with Sander's passing...""Patricia, Jesus Christ on a bicycle! Don't be such a cold and analytical mother hen all the time for us Chix. Dana's story is not about coping, it's about us - all of us and all that we once had and what we might lose, including Will, Nelson and yes, Orlando too. Dana, your conversation with Sander really got to me there..." McNally paused, looking emotionally rattled."I guess everyone can tell, your story about Sander got to me also," said Annie after managing to dry out enough. "I feel like McNally. Dana, what you said really touched me; I don't know what to say... Yes, I actually do, I want to say that what Sander said is right; my joy has been stolen from my soul, I feel drained inside, I have let the things I hold most dear fade away. I am Scrooge - and I'm sorry, but so are all of you."Turning to Patricia, Annie asked, "Don't you feel what McNally and I feel? Don't you feel that you and I and McNally, and certainly Dana, have lost something precious? Together as The Chix, we are a sum greater the whole - and that has, or should, include our husbands. I believe Sander told Dana to warn us all before it is too late. Patricia, don't you feel like me that we should do something before the Ghost of Christmas Future makes the vision of an estranged and murky end to all that we enjoy a grim reality?"Patricia teared up and nodded silently. Then lifting her head, she asked Dana, "Is there hope? Did Sander give you hope for us?""There is hope. There is still love here, and where there is love, there is hope. Sander showed me that the future can be changed by what we do now. Sander showed me that there is hope for us, hope for The Chix.""And... And... What is that hope?" asked McNally. "And... And... And I got lots of questions about you and Sander up here in this cabin, but first - that was a gripping Christmas ghost story with Sander, but it seemed kind of weird that as soon as you finished driving your emotional steamroller full speed over our sympathies that you then broke character, ignoring us to check your phone. Isn't checking your messages part of that tyranny of the mundane that Sander warned you about? Who is so important that you were texting them rather than dealing with us in this room and our emotions?""The Ghost or the Ghosts of Christmas Future," was Dana's curt, cryptic reply."You asked about our future, you asked about hope; I don't know exactly how to answer those questions," said a thoughtful Dana. "But I know where I want to look for starters. There is Sander's unrevealed Christmas surprise waiting for me - or us, on top of the hill behind the cabin. It was Sander's last gift. Everyone, dress in your ugliest Christmas sweater and pull on some holiday woolies and come with me to see what's up there."What do you think it is, Dana?" asked Annie."I think it is wonderful and special, Sander was so good at that kind of thing. Other than that, as I said, I only remembered it this morning. I think that it's fitting that it happened to be left there to be revealed to me in the future. I think it's a sign." Bright Angel On High - The Gift Of The Ghost Of Christmas FutureThe four Chix marched up the trail behind the cabin, following in the footprints Dana pressed into the fresh, moonlit snow that was smooth and crisp and even. All the ladies came to the brow of the hill, ready to mount the crest, expecting to view Sander's waiting surprise. Dana let out an exasperated half sight, half scream. "Ah! I forgot - or didn't think to remember that I needed to plug in the cord that Sander had run up the hill to his surprise gift." Dana broke down crying, "Everything is ruined. I wanted to see Sander's last gift and now the surprise is ruined." Dana buried her head in her mittens as her shoulders shook in choking sobs of disappointment and grief. "I failed Sander and his memory," she wailed.Annie, McNally, and Patricia swarmed around Dana, throwing their arms around her to console her. Patricia was about to explain to Dana that the problem could be solved, she would just go back down and plug the cord into the electrical socket and fix the oversight. Simple. No need for tears. Patricia's unhelpful words pointing out the simple fix to Dana's overwrought emotions never passed her lips."Ooh, look!" gasped Annie. "There it is! Look Dana, it's beautiful. Look up in that big Christmas tree, it is so magical. It's from heaven." Annie was hopping and pointing into a spruce on the other side of the dark clearing. Dana looked up, her legs turned to jelly, her heart shot out of her chest, taking with it every last oxygen molecule from her lungs. Dana stood in silence surrounded by her friends but felt as if she were floating to the stars as she marveled at Sander's creation.The figure of a magnificent, bright angel glowed from the boughs with a million tiny, warm lights. Dana threw her hands to her cheeks in stunned amazement, feeling a wash of warm blessings surge through her body."Absolutely amazing," marveled McNally. "Oh Dana, this is so inspiring. Sander sure had an innovative spirit combined with his refined talent to create such a masterful surprise. It's the most gorgeous, stunning angel I've ever seen. I know this is quite meaningful to you."The Chix huddled tight in the brisk night air, spellbound in wonder under the illuminated gaze of the angel on high. A Wild Ride DownThey jumped in unison with a startled twitch as the crystalline silence was shattered by a male voice ringing out from the dark woods behind the spruce where the angel floated.The voice made a short, "Ho!" sound. Followed by a second male voice, echoing the same "Ho!" and then another mysterious "Ho!" was spoken by another man.The women stared into the gloom beyond the angel. Was it a sound effect by Sander's angel or was someone watching them from the woods? "Hello. Who's there?" shouted Patricia.Her question was answered by three quick 'Ho, Ho Ho's' from three hidden men. Three dark figures rushed from the shadows toward the women, pushing three toboggans in front of them. Annie, McNally, and Patricia clustered close in around Dana in a scared, defensive move.In an instant Nelson, Orlando and Will burst into recognizable range of their wives, scooping them up and depositing each of them onto the toboggans. Orlando gave Dana a tug, throwing her behind McNally. With a whoosh before any of the ladies knew what was happening, they found themselves careening downhill in the darkness along the path which they had climbed a few minutes earlier. The night air was filled with screams and laughs as The Chix and their Dix flew with abandon down the wooded slope. The Chix shrieked like young schoolgirls at their quick abduction and wild ride.At the base of the slope, to avoid hitting the cabin, the men had to tip the toboggans, spilling everyone into the snow. Still in a breathless uproar, the ladies scrambled to their knees and feet and began to dump snow on the guys as they continued in a giddy, frolicking mood.The men rose from their vulnerable positions and the women ran. The men chased and the women got caught and tackled into the snow, where there was a flurry of rolling and tumbling bodies amid whoops and high spirits. The Chix all ended up getting pinned beneath their man and enjoying it before they were extracted and lifted to their feet."C'mon inside everybody!" shout a gleeful Dana. Nelson wrapped one arm around Annie and one around Dana as he ushered the two toward the cabin's deck."Wait! The gifts, damn it, we've got to recover the gifts," moaned Will."Are they at the bottom of the hill with the sleds, or did they fall off back uphill?" asked Orlando."Hell, I don't know Orlando. Send the women folk inside, we'll have to bring 'em in once we find them," replied a less than gracious Will."There're gifts for us?" asked Annie as she broke out from under her husband's arm and led the way to look for her lost gift in the snow drifts. McNally and Patricia were joined by Dana as they turned to search for their gifts too."I found one," announced Will as he stooped to dig it out of the snow. "I think this one belongs to..."Patricia gave him a boot in the bum, forcing a frozen face plant into a snowbank. She whooped with delight at her playful stunt and then turned on her heels as Will chased her and brought her down into the snow on top of him where he copped a feel and rolled his wife over and gave her a spank with his gloved hand.Dana found a wrapped gift, "I found one! Who wants this present?"McNally raced over and said, "I'll take that mystery gift," snatching it from Dana's upheld arms.Nelson looked and said, "Oh no you don't McNally, that is supposed to be Annie's." He gave chase and McNally tucked her box under her jacket and ran.Nelson quickly caught up to McNally in the drifts and swooped down on her, rummaging under her jacket feeling for the stolen box. McNally shifted and made sure that Nelson got to squeeze a couple of wrapped wonders in his search before he found Annie's intended present."Hey Nelson, what are you doing with my wife?" asked Orlando in a mock menacing tone as he strode over to McNally. He pulled her out of Nelson's clutches, grabbing her hand and lifting her up."Come with me young lady, I got something better for you. Help me find a lost partridge parcel and I'll make sure he finds a nice nest in your pear tree."McNally turned her head to Nelson, "Sorry Nelly-boy, it was fun while it lasted, but I just got a better offer." She pecked Orlando on the cheek as they went off arm-in-arm in search of the last spilled Christmas package."All presents, present and accounted for!" announce Orlando as he plucked a gift box from beneath an overturned toboggan."Y'all c'mon, my offer still stands, everyone inside," yelled Dana. Nelson rushed back to put his arm around Dana and escort her inside as the rest of the reunited Chix and Dix tramped through the snow following them into the cabin.Inside, Dana announced, "I'm going to be making a batch of my rich hot chocolate, the traditional drink for ski cabin gathering of The Chix and The Dix." Everyone cheered as Dana stepped into her kitchen.Orlando opened the cupboard, "Hey Dana, what happened to the bottle of peppermint schnapps that used to be here?"Dana tipped her head and pointed her finger into the hollow of her cheek, giving Orlando a ditzy look; "I wonder, who around here would remember that old bottle of peppermint schnapps you gave to us after all these years?"McNally, right on cue, "I've got a good memory for things like that - in fact that 'old bottle' that we gave you and Sander has just come out of the closet and has already made his presence felt. He's right here." McNally lifted the schnapps bottle off the coffee table and showed it to her inquiring husband. "It's like this old bottle is helping rekindle memories of good times past and maybe a talisman for reigniting passions that have faded.""That old bottle holds the Ghost of Christmas Past, out of it pours hope - it's not too late for us!" surmised Patricia. The Chix all yelled an enthusiastic cheer at Patricia's words, which Orlando, Will and Nelson found puzzling."But he is almost used up I am sad to say," informed McNally as she shook the schnapps bottle."Not to fear, I packed his younger brother," mentioned Orlando, "it's in with my stuff where we parked down the road, waiting for Dana's 'all clear' text. I'll bring it up later - unless we need him to rescue us right now.""The new bottle comes with the Ghost of Christmas Future inside," proclaimed Annie, "I feel that out of that bottle will pour a bright and renewed future for all of us." Annie's thoughts brought another hearty cheer from all of the ladies. The men were mystified by the response, but pleased the girls were getting worked up over some spirits in a schnapps bottle."Hey guys, when do we get to open our presents?" asked Annie.The men all looked over to Dana. Dana exploded into a sweet, sly smile. "Here's the plan y'all; I'm making a double batch of traditional hot chocolate, the first round we drink to Christmas Past and use up the old bottle. The second round, we drink to Christmas Future, and we break out the new bottle. Orlando, you are excused to go get that bottle right now. But don't tarry, there are a bunch of eager beavers waiting to open up their gifts." She gave a salacious, knowing wink to each man. "Now git, Mr. Partridge, the night is young, and we can't start the festivities without you."Orlando drove the car up to the cabin from its hiding place where they waited for Dana's text to tell them they should get in place at the top of the hill to surprise their wives. He came waltzing in with the unopened peppermint schnapps bottle. The women served the steaming mugs to their men, McNally distributed an even pour from the old bottle into each cup so that there was enough of the elixir to go around before the last drop dripped into her foaming mug.Dana lifted her stein, "A toast to the fond and wonderful memories of good times past!""I'll drink to that," said Patricia with a laugh. "There, I beat you to it, McNally." Everyone laughed.When the second round was poured and fortified, Dana offered a second toast, "A toast to fond memories of old, may they only serve as a foundation for the many bright and wonderful memories to come, bringing a future filled with hope and passion for all!"The Chix were eyeing the wrapped packages in the center of the room, and after some reminiscing and conversations, Annie again asked, "When are we going to get to open those packages?"The men deferred to Dana. Dana put her stein down and surveyed the room with a sweet and sly smile that had reemerged. "First, I know I invited Patricia, Annie and McNally up here on the pretense that I would tell you girls in person how much I enjoyed being on your naughty list. I want to thank you for turning our Christmas cookie exchange into a hubby exchange. There is no way to really find the words to say how special and loved and deliciously naughty the gift of your men made me feel on this dread holiday without Sander. Each of the guys was special, tender, loving and fun and fulfilling. And since there is no way to tell you how it felt, I took the advice from an old writer's adage; show, don't tell."I know in some circles re-gifting is considered a social faux pas, but in this case, I feel it is a wonderful, shared secret among the best of friends. I ask you to open up your packages and enjoy. As it has oft been said around here lately, Merry Fucking Christmas."McNally, Annie, and Patricia tore into their boxes, squealing in an excited tempered with shy embarrassment at the contents that had come back their way. McNally's box contained a couple of fresh, juicy pears, a bottle of lubricant that Orlando had artfully relabeled 'Partridge Oil' with instructions that said, 'pairs well with pecker and pussy'. Annie's box had a rich assortment of dark chocolate candy turtles, a small bottle of chocolate syrup and a little note instructing the owner to apply a liberal amount on her 'doves' as bait if she wanted to be a 'master baiter' and charm a fabulous trouser snake. Patricia was delighted to find a vibrating egg in her box, curious beyond belief and surprised by the fast-rising tide of wetness under her longjanes."Oh! Dana, you didn't get a gift," sympathized Annie."Oh, but I did. I've already peeked inside all of your packages - if you know what I mean, and I think you do; that's why I know everyone is in for a wonderful night on this Fourth Day of Christmas. My gift is to enjoy being the one to transform all of us Scrooges and bring the joy back into our lives, like Christmas Past. My hope has been fulfilled; I see that Christmas Future is now bright."God bless us, everyone!" cheered Patricia, repeating Tiny Tim's final line of Dickens's Christmas Carol.All seven joined in, repeating the blessing, "God bless us, everyone!""But still. Dana," Annie persisted, "I feel that it's not the same for you or for us without Sander. If Sander is still alright with it, I think maybe sometimes I can put my ol' goat Nelson here, out to pasture. That's if you need or want some intimate care now and then. Just ask." Annie blushed, put her hand on Nelson's leg and looked at her husband before lunging to hug him tight as she shed a tear."McNally are you going to match Annie's and my offer to our lonely friend?" asked Patricia with a playful smirk."As I said after The Chix cookie exchange, 'It's three or it's zero when it comes to The Chix hubby exchange. Of course, I'm in and I'll speak for Orlando on this as well.""This is only the Fourth Day of Christmas," figured Nelson, "what are we going to do for the remaining eight days?""There are seven of us here, it seems fitting that I heat up the hot tub, it seems like the perfect place to find 'Seven swans a swimming'. I'm game if the rest of us are," offered Will. Will's idea was greeted with hearty laughs of ascent."I can't wait to find out what someone will do with 'five golden rings,''' said McNally, giving a sexy little shimmy shake."I like the idea of 'maids a milking'" contributed Orlando as he licked his lips in an overtly sensual manner and flexed his fingers in a breast-milking motion."Not before we all get to have our 'lords a leaping,' that includes Dana," negotiated Patricia."Dana are you alright with this?" asked Annie, not sure if their widowed friend was feeling excluded."Annie, I'm fine, I really am. But I'm feeling a little bit shy about participating in the hubby exchange. But I'm also excited to sample the spicy variety now and again with what you Chix are willing to share with me. I love The Chix and The Dix."McNally plucked the pair of pears from the box in her lap, holding them by their stems and dangling them in front of her nipples which were showing through her top. "Orlando here has some low-hanging fruit to pick, if you'll excuse us," she mentioned in a husky voice."I've got a new egg, and I'm in the mood to get laid," Patricia said as she held up her vibrator.Nelson stood and took Annie's hand to escort her to their room. Annie paused, "Dana, are you going to be lonely and sad tonight?""I don't think so. I'm quite happy right now. You kids run along and have fun, I think I'll go back up the hill and be with my Sander Angel."Dana, put on her hat and gloves, turning to everyone in the room, "Who do I have to thank for remembering to plug in Sander's bright angel gift?" She looked from face to face to face. No one acknowledged the deed."Dana, we were all with you at the top of the dark hill, you know that" said Patricia after a long silence."We were hiding in the woods for about ten minutes after you texted us, Dana. We were waiting for you to show up, we didn't know what to expect," offered Will. "It couldn't have been anyone in this room."Annie let out a gasp and covered her mouth, gaping in surprise. "Do you think it could have been...""I'm sure of it. It's a sign," said Dana with a beaming smile. "Excuse me, I think Sander is waiting for me, I don't want to keep him waiting," as she closed the door behind her. A Merry Fucking ChristmasDana slipped back into the cabin after spending some time with Sander's angel. There were quiet moans and soft purrs seeping out from under closed doors when she tip-toed down the hall. In an understated, but audible voice, she called out, "Merry fucking Christmas, and to all a naughty good night."Dana heard laughs and giggles coming softly from behind three closed doors. "Merry fucking Christmas," came the response called back to her from behind three closed doors. She slipped under her covers, warmed by sweet memories and hopes for the future while visions of sugar plums danced in her head.Based on a post by SandyMarl, for Literotica.
Send us a textAh, Christmas. A time for joy, tinsel, turkey… and a little extra emotional chaos if you're navigating the post-divorce version of Santa Season
The future of the little baby born in Bethlehem shows us our future as well, a future that adds true celebration to Christmas!
The Christmas season is now in full swing, and what better way to start the festivities than to talk about viewing plans over the coming weeks. James and Carl discuss their yearly traditions and some new Christmas movies they want to see. Follow @ChattinFlicks on all the socials. Theme tune provided by Exposed Brick @LiverpoolSynth
Send us a textDo you remember the Christmas movie Mixed Nuts from 1994? We remember almost nothing about this movie, and with a stacked cast like this—Steve Martin, Madeline Kahn, Anthony LaPaglia, Juliette Lewis, Liev Schreiber, Rita Wilson, and Adam Sandler, to name just a few—we are worried about why we haven't seen it since the 90s. We hope it was ahead of its time and is a lost Holiday Gem but we wouldn't bet our Christmas Stocking on it. So join us as we go back to the 90s for a Christmas Surprise or the Ghost of Christmas Future. You know, the one where life sucks, everybody is miserable and the main character dies. Much like our Christmas Spirit if this movie sucks.Do You Remember Liking This Movie?
What's up, dudes? It's spooky season! So that means I've got Anthony Caruso from ‘Tis the Podcast with me to talk the Mistress of the Dark! That's right! This episode is all about Elvira! From MTV specials to comics to her own feature film, we get into all of it!In "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark," the goth beauty inherits a decrepit New England mansion and a old recipe book. Spoilers: It's actually a spell book, and she's descended from a line of witches. There's an uptight Puritanical town, an evil warlock uncle, and a group of hormonal teens! When they attempt to burn her at the stake, she conjures a storm to put it out, then tackles her maniacal uncle! Eventually, with her newly inherited money, she finances her own Vegas show!In Elvira's Haunted Holidays, the titular heroine plays the Scrooge character and is visited by three ghosts. First, she's visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past who shows her making bat garland and burning down her schoolhouse. The next ghost shows her New York City's Christmas spirit which she promptly lambasted for its greed. Finally, the Ghost of Christmas Future shows her a desolate wasteland, which changes her attitude about the holiday. Cue the horror hostess sic'ing a bat on some creeps. Ancient family spell book? Check. Witty quips and zingers? Uh huh. Dangerous food monster? Only if it's really gross! So grab your magic ring, hop in your convertible, and take a ride to this episode!‘Tis the PodcastFB: @tisthepodcastTwitter: @tisthepodIG: @tisthepodcast Give us a buzz! Send a text, dudes!Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Totally Rad Christmas Mall & Arcade, Teepublic.com, or TotallyRadChristmas.com! Later, dudes!
It's Christmas in July and we're off for Theb's very important birthday! So, enjoy a retelling of A Christmas Carol, but the version that ACTUALLY happened.Welcome to your obligatory 2023 version of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens! The Christmas Spirit Union has gone on strike! So, it is up to Theb A Stard and Tim The Producer to save Christmas for everyone…AGAIN! This time, our great American hero and his producer will keep the holiday alive becoming the Christmas spirits for Ebenezer Scrooge! Time StampsA Call From The Christmas Magic Authority - 0:00 - 6:45Intro - 6:45 - 7:54Welcome to 1843 London! - 7:54 - 14:16Real American Commercial - 14:16 - 16:44Jacob Marley - 16:44 - 23:17Real American Commercial - 23:17 - 23:59Waiting for the first spirit - 23:59 - 25:32Real American Commercial - 25:32 - 26:25The Spirit of Christmas Past - 26:25 - 32:15Real American Commercial - 32:15 - 34:19The Spirit of Christmas Present - 34:19 - 43:40Real American Commercial - 43:40 - 45:02The Spirit of Christmas Future - 45:02 - 51:05A Message From The Real American Company - 51:05 - 53:26The Christmas Magic Authority - 53:26 - 01:01:10Credits - 01:01:10 - 01:03:56SUBSCRIBE HEREATP Presents - YOUTUBE CHANNELATP Presents - APPLE PODCASTS CHANNEL America! The Podcast - SPOTIFYOther ATP Presents ShowsRoad Trip! A Journey Across America - APPLE, SPOTIFY, YOUTUBE America! The Conversation - APPLE, SPOTIFY, YOUTUBE I Do Not Trust This Person - APPLE, SPOTIFY, YOUTUBE...
The Ghost of Christmas Future reveals the appalling events that will happen if Scrooge doesn't become a kinder man. Tiny Tim will die, and so will Scrooge, though no one will mourn him. Scrooge begs the Ghost for a chance to put things right. This episode was originally published on December 11, 2023
December 24, 2023 @ 10:00 a.m. Christmas FutureAre you prepared for Christmas future? In Titus 2:11-14 Paul writes, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No' to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. While we wait for this blessed hope! Christmas future, the second coming of Jesus. What are you doing to prepare for this incredible moment? Join us as we consider Jesus' return not as a baby in a manger but as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Oh and here is a link to the video that is talked about in the message. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ha1dtAFbAA --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/escape-urself-podcast/support
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Zach Harper, Jay King and Josh Huestis preview the Christmas Day games, David Aldridge and Marcus Thompson look at NBA Christmas past, Nerder She wrote crew, Dave DuFour, Seth Partnow and Mo Dakhil, bring you Christmas Future, the tampering fellas, Sam Amick, Fred Katz and Anthony Slater hand out gifts to teams in the form of some juicy trades, And finally Slam and Jam Christmas with Andrew Schlecht, Alex Speers and JE Skeets as we do some Christmas Trivia. Hope you enjoy the show and the holiday season with good friends and family and some basketball Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Zach Harper, Jay King and Josh Huestis preview the Christmas Day games, David Aldridge and Marcus Thompson look at NBA Christmas past, Nerder She wrote crew, Dave DuFour, Seth Partnow and Mo Dakhil, bring you Christmas Future, the tampering fellas, Sam Amick, Fred Katz and Anthony Slater hand out gifts to teams in the form of some juicy trades, And finally Slam and Jam Christmas with Andrew Schlecht, Alex Speers and JE Skeets as we do some Christmas Trivia. Hope you enjoy the show and the holiday season with good friends and family and some basketball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlighted by names like Dom Hamel, Mike Vasil, Christian Scott, Paul Gervase and many more, as Vito and Jon are here with an extra gift under your tree, giving you the 12 pitchers that can have an impact on the Mets next season. Happy Holidays from the Future of Flushing. We'll see you in the future and enjoy the stock(ing stuffer) music! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Muppet Christmas Carol: Episode 276 - It's in the singing of a street corner choir. It's going home and getting warm by the fire. It's true, wherever you find love it's Normies Like Us! Ho Ho Ho and Haaaaappy Holidays. Your hosts are celebrating the season with their good friends Kermit, Gonzo, Miss Piggy and the entire gang as they discuss the 1992 classic The Muppet Christmas Carol on Normies Like Us Starring Colin the Rat as himself Insta: @NormiesLikeUs https://www.instagram.com/normieslikeus/ @jacob https://www.instagram.com/jacob/ @MikeHasInsta https://www.instagram.com/mikehasinsta/ https://letterboxd.com/BabblingBrooksy/ https://letterboxd.com/hobbes72/ https://letterboxd.com/mikejromans/
This week the ghost of Christmas Future tries to convince Loctite that there's more to Christmas than just slammin' ham and dodgin' credit card debt collectors. X-Mas cheer comin' out cha rear! Hoes, Hoes, Hoes! Check out our shops and socials: https://linktr.ee/lowlifechopperpodcast Sponsored by: @deadbeatcustoms @lowbrowcustoms @steelcityblacksmithing @noluckpaintworks @staystrongcollc --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lowlife4/support
AndrewNew McDonnald's McNuggets: https://people.com/mcdonald-s-mcnugget-buddies-are-back-after-25-years-8407941DDC Brand Tumbling Dice: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/justinsirois/draplin-design-company-cee-lo-dice-limited-editionLiving With Yourself: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8880894/The One I Love: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2756032/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0338013/LaurenJonathan Majors: https://www.slashfilm.com/1473799/marvel-creed-star-jonathan-majors-found-guilty-harassment-assault/The Boy and the Heron: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6587046/Dianna Wynne Jones: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diana_Wynne_JonesPatrickFigma/Adobe Acquisition: https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/18/24005996/adobe-figma-acquisition-abandoned-termination-feeDDC with North Drinkwear: https://northdrinkware.com/blogs/journal/the-thick-lines-collectionTank the Tech: https://www.youtube.com/c/TankTheTech Watch us live on Twitch every Monday at 7pm CT: https://www.twitch.tv/mof1podcast
Welcome to your obligatory 2023 version of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens! The Christmas Spirit Union has gone on strike! So, it is up to Theb A Stard and Tim The Producer to save Christmas for everyone…AGAIN! This time, our great American hero and his producer will keep the holiday alive becoming the Christmas spirits for Ebenezer Scrooge! Time StampsA Call From The Christmas Magic Authority - 0:00 - 6:45Intro - 6:45 - 7:54Welcome to 1843 London! - 7:54 - 14:16Real American Commercial - 14:16 - 16:44Jacob Marley - 16:44 - 23:17Real American Commercial - 23:17 - 23:59Waiting for the first spirit - 23:59 - 25:32Real American Commercial - 25:32 - 26:25The Spirit of Christmas Past - 26:25 - 32:15Real American Commercial - 32:15 - 34:19The Spirit of Christmas Present - 34:19 - 43:40Real American Commercial - 43:40 - 45:02The Spirit of Christmas Future - 45:02 - 51:05A Message From The Real American Company - 51:05 - 53:26The Christmas Magic Authority - 53:26 - 01:01:10Credits - 01:01:10 - 01:03:56Social Links Theb A. Stard Twitter - @BastardComedy Show Twitter - @AmericaThePod Show IG - @AmericaThePodcast Show Facebook - @AmericaThePodcast Shway Media Twitter - @ShwayMedia Sounds for this episode were procured through Story Blocks, Freesound.Org, Sonnis, Accusonus, Sound Crate, Infinite, Ghosthack, and Ambient-Mixer.com. Music heard in this episode was procured through Audioblocks and Pixbay. The “America! The Podcast” theme song is by Timmy Two Step (TimmyTwoStep.com). "A Christmas Carol" was written by Charles Dickens. This episode was adapted from that work by Tim Phillippe. "America! The Podcast" was created by Tim Phillippe and is a production of Shway Media. For more, visit www.AmericaThePodcast.com and www.ShwayMedia.com!
You've heard the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. He was a miserable curmudgeon with a cold heart. Scrooge declined invitations to donate to poor children and only reluctantly let his clerk, Bob Cratchit, take the day off on Christmas. A vision of his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, should have caused Scrooge to reconsider his behavior. But Scrooge only made a dramatic breakthrough after three ghosts appeared to Scrooge. The most important of the three showed Scrooge the future that will follow from the way he lived his life. A grave visited by no one and people happy that Scrooge was gone.We at Keystone Elder Law take very seriously our role as the Ghost of Christmas Future. We show people a vision of the future and give them the opportunity to make a plan for a better future. This episode examines the vision of the future that awaits many middle class families. Keystone Elder Law's wish for you during the holidays is that you have a breakthrough like Scrooge!
Christmas Future | Isaiah 65:17-25 | December 17 2023 by The Grove Church
Lead Pastor Adam Harris continues discussing the prophecies of Micah as they relate to the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Bah Humbug Part 4: Christmas Future Dionne Salmonds Original Air Date: 2023.12.10 Attributed to the famous character Ebenezer Scrooge in the novel “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens, the expression is used to refer to a disapproval of something others enjoy, such as Christmas. Many people feel Christmas is humbug and there is often a reason. Things from the past or the present can influence our view of Christmas and even impact our future. The busyness of life, the financial stress, or unmet expectations during the holidays can interfere with our ability to enjoy the season and if we're not careful, Christmas becomes Humbug! BUT... God's plan for Christmas was to send His Son into our world, our pain, and our struggles to bring hope. He came as an infant and changed the course of history. Jesus is the reason we celebrate, the reason we have hope, the reason we can heal, and the reason we can look forward to the future. We invite you to join us on this holiday adventure. The series begins November 18th & 19th and will run for 7 weeks. Service Times are Saturday Evening at 5:30pm and Sunday Morning at 10:30 am. We also offer two Adult Sunday School options at 9:00am. CHRISTMAS SERVICES WILL BE SATURDAY DECEMBER 23RD AT 5:30PM AND SUNDAY DECEMBER 24TH AT 10:30AM ONLY. Promiseland Kids Church is available at 5:30pm on Saturday evening for children up to 5th grade and Sunday at 10:30am for Toddler – 5th grade and Youth Sunday School for Jr. High and older. If you have missed a message or are viewing from home, you can catch weekend services on our Facebook page and YouTube by going to www.crossroads-ridgecrest.org, or through the church app. We also have podcasts available by looking up Crossroads Community Church - available on several podcast apps. For questions or information, please contact us at: (760)384-3333 Wednesday – Friday 10am – 4pm, text (760)301-4840 or email ccc@ccc-rc.org
The Ghost of Christmas Future reveals the appalling events that will happen if Scrooge doesn't become a kinder man. Tiny Tim will die, and so will Scrooge, though no one will mourn him. Scrooge begs the Ghost for a chance to put things right.
Grandpa Bill today continues in our Mnemonic series, featuring Mr .Magoo , as Ebenezer Scrooge. Scrooge, now a modern day 21st Century man investigates above ground cable lines vs above ground telephone poles-and more. "Underground vs Above Ground Cables: Decoding the Future with Mr. Magoo's Heart-Brain Coherence" #Magoo21stCentury,#HeartofAScrooge,#HeartBrainCoherence,#UndergroundCables,#MorseCodeLegacy,#FutureOfTelecommunications, Mr. Scrooge, it's an honor to have you on our podcast today. We're here to discuss the future of telecommunications, and I understand you have some insights from your recent encounters with the Ghost of Christmas Future. Indeed, I do. The Ghost showed me a world where our current reliance on above-ground telephone poles has become obsolete. In its place, a vast network of underground cables carries the lifeblood of modern communication – data, voice, and video – with unprecedented speed, reliability, and resilience. That's quite a vision, Mr. Scrooge. But isn't the cost of underground cables a major concern? It's true that underground cables require a significant upfront investment. However, when you consider the long-term benefits, the cost becomes far more justifiable. Underground cables are far less susceptible to damage from storms, vandalism, and accidents, leading to reduced maintenance costs and downtime. They also provide enhanced security and protection from interference, ensuring the integrity of our communications infrastructure. But what about the environmental impact.Underground cables offer a significant environmental advantage over above-ground poles. They eliminate the need for vast tracts of land to be cleared and maintained, preserving natural habitats and reducing deforestation. Additionally, underground cables minimize visual clutter, preserving the aesthetic beauty of our landscapes. Mr. Scrooge, I understand you've also had a conversation with the spirit of Samuel Morse, the inventor of the telegraph. What did he have to say about the future of telecommunications? Mr. Morse was a visionary who understood the transformative power of communication. He spoke to me about his own astonishment when he first transmitted a message using the telegraph, exclaiming, "What hath God wrought?" Today, we stand at a similar crossroads, with the potential to revolutionize communication once again. So, Mr. Scrooge, what is your ultimate message to our listeners? My message is simple: embrace the future. Underground cables represent a leap forward in telecommunications infrastructure, offering a more sustainable, reliable, and secure foundation for our connected world. Let us honor the legacy of Samuel Morse and seize the opportunity to build a future where communication knows no bounds. Thank you, Mr. Scrooge, for your insightful perspective. I'm sure our listeners will find your message both inspiring and thought-provoking. [Ghost of Christmas Future appears] Mr. Scrooge, your heart has truly transformed. You have embraced compassion and understanding, and your insights will guide us towards a brighter future. Thank you, Ghost. I am forever grateful for the lessons you have taught me. Mr. Scrooge's encounter with the Ghost of Christmas Future and the spirit of Samuel Morse has opened his eyes to the transformative power of underground cables. Their resilience, security, and environmental benefits make them the clear choice for the future of telecommunications. As we move towards a more connected world, let us heed Mr. Scrooge's advice and embrace the future of underground cables, ensuring a brighter and more interconnected world for generations to come. "Grids on the Brink: Weather, Terrorism, and the Urgency of Underground Infrastructure" #VulnerableGrids,#UndergroundInfrastructure,#WeatherThreats,#TerrorismRisks,#ResilientFuture, --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bhsales/message
Grandpa Bill continues today with another saga in the life of the modern 21st Man Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Mr. Magoo. Grandpa Bill VIRTUALLY interviews Scrooge- in Part one asking him to Answer this question: What's your favorite memory with Bob Cratchit? Grandpa Bill is continuing with a mnemonic technique and utilizing Memory Palaces, now having Mr. Magoo, as a modern day 1st Century Man leaving his miserly ways, because he has attained heart brain coherence, from what he learned from visitations by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Ghosts of Christmases yet to Come. Part two of today's show-Grandpa Bill-now shows how he has converted,that is Mr Magoo, Through A Magnetic Memory Method, from The online course originated and created by Dr. Anthony Metivier-he is now a modern day Scrooge, in the 21st century, a successful entrepreneur, but now benevolent and kind, you see he learned heart brain coherence form the Ghost of Christmas future-his own future From Miser to Magnanimous: Scrooge's Heartwarming Transformation Heart, Mind, and Wealth: Scrooge's Journey to Modern-Day Success The Magnetic Memory Method: Unleashing the Benevolence Within Scrooge 2.0: A New Era of Enlightened Entrepreneurship The Ghost of Christmas Future's Gift: Scrooge's Heart-Brain Coherence Scrooge's Ripple Effect of Compassion #Scrooge'sRippleEffect #HeartBrainCoherence #StarSeedCommunity #CompassionInAction #OptimumWellbeing Scrooge's Global Revolution: Nurturing a World of Compassion and Well-being Star Seed Awakening: Scrooge's Empire Inspires a Global Consciousness From Miser to Messiah: Scrooge's Legacy of Compassion and Empowerment Heart's Bounty: Scrooge's Transformational Impact on Food and Community The Ripple Effect of Kindness: Scrooge's Legacy of Collective Action Scrooge's Golden Touch: Rewarding Loyalty with Wealth and Well-being#Scrooge'sGoldenTouch #NumismaticExcellence #WealthAndWellbeing #GlobalCommunitySupport #OptimumWellbeing Scrooge's Midas Touch: Rewarding Loyalty with Precious Metals and Well-being Numismatic Gratitude: Scrooge's Golden Coins Inspire Global Community Support Beyond Material Wealth: Scrooge's Gift of Health, Prosperity, and Compassion Coins of Kindness: Scrooge's Golden Gesture Empowers Employees and Communities Scrooge's Legacy of Generosity: Golden Coins as Catalysts for Transformative Change --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bhsales/message
Clear your schedule! Here's an actual dozen Holiday Specials! Consult your doctor to see if this amount of merriment is right for you. Download and enjoy: Visions of Christmas Future- find out the secrets of Cliff and Kendall's future holidays! Xmasablanca- Cliff and Kendall vs. Fascism! Once Upon a Christmas in the Falkland Islands- Cliff and Kendall explore the horrible and holy sides of the holiday. A Truly Festive Feliz Navidad- the gang learns what the term "memorable holiday" really means! The Boogie Before Xmas- Can Charles the Contractor's mother save the day in this Bangkok set special? Christmas Saves Cliff and Kendall- a jolly stranger vs. a serial killer! Cliff and Kendall Save Christmas- the two hosts help out the North Pole just in time! A Canadian Alps Christmas- Finding the right gift can be hazardous to your health! A Cliff and Kendall Christmas Carol- Cliff and Kendall go through their Scrooge era. One Non-Magic Christmas- Busheltown citizens reveal what caring really means in this five-hanky holiday special. Secret Illegal Underground Christmas- What won't Cliff and Kendall do to help their fellow man?? Journey to Bethlehem- Two hefty comedians occupy the last room in an inn one December night.
In the final episode, Scrooge is confronted with a view of a future that does not include him. The experience causes him to reevaluate the way he is living and inspires him to make important changes to how he treats those around him. Key Links: Website: https://scroogepodcast.com Companion study: https://bit.ly/scrooge-study Compassion International: https://bit.ly/compassion_scrooge Text SCROOGE to 67101 to be entered to win a script signed by the cast. Presented by Hope Media Group and Compassion International. Find fun & meaningful content for a joyful, confident faith at Hope Nation. http://hopenation.org Release a child from poverty through Compassion International. https://bit.ly/compassion-scrooge
Two comic story tellers, Dino Archie and James Judd, bring you love, bromance and a summer camp exorcism with sock puppets. This episode contains explicit language. STORIES The Legend of Sweet Foot Comedian Dino Archie got into a bar fight that blossomed into a bromance. The bond with his soulmate ripens over crab trapping, bankruptcy, and the Ghost of Christmas Future. Camp Exorcist Comedian James Judd dreams of being kidnapped, falling in love with a human hair blanket, and a church camp exorcism…you know, the kind with googly-eyed sock puppets. Original Music by Bells Atlas Artwork by Teo Ducot Snap Classic - Season 14 - Episode 32
It's a Christmas themed episode, I don't know what more you would want from this description. In addition to our hosts, Kenny McCanse, Kyle Loomis, and Noah Stalcup, a special thanks to Luke Demarco, the ghost of Christmas Future's Intern.
There's a whole new world just beyond the horizon and it's starting to come into view. Let's talk 10th! Check out the latest BITREP! https://youtu.be/j2NtLIvmLVQ
Kyrie Irving's connection the number eleven has been called to the Illuminati's attention for further inspection, and whether his affinity for the number outweighs that of Klay Thompson. Donovan Mitchell's explosive seventy one point evening is indicative of a burgeoning scoring trend in the association, thanks to influences far beyond Mitchell himself. The Ghost of Christmas Future brought James Harden some interesting "news", while LeBron James has altered his DNA in the fight against Father Time. Subscribe to Basketball Illuminati! On Apple or Spotify Merch: Shirts - Hat 1 - Hat 2 Email us: basketballilluminati@gmail.com Twitter: @bballilluminati Instagram: @basketballilluminati Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Kyrie Irving's connection the number eleven has been called to the Illuminati's attention for further inspection, and whether his affinity for the number outweighs that of Klay Thompson. Donovan Mitchell's explosive seventy one point evening is indicative of a burgeoning scoring trend in the association, thanks to influences far beyond Mitchell himself. The Ghost of Christmas Future brought James Harden some interesting "news", while LeBron James has altered his DNA in the fight against Father Time. Subscribe to Basketball Illuminati! On Apple or Spotify Merch: Shirts - Hat 1 - Hat 2 Email us: basketballilluminati@gmail.com Twitter: @bballilluminati Instagram: @basketballilluminati Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of The Steve Dangle Podcast, the storm is here (00:00), You Can Bet That with Sports Interaction (08:15), the Leafs beat the Flyers in a game that no one wanted to play (14:00), how do we evaluate the Leafs' start to the year? (20:00), Bruins complete review of Mitchell Miller signing (32:00), our biggest surprises of the 2022 season so far (40:00), what trades should the Leafs make at the deadline? (47:00), is William Nylander working harder? (49:00), the Leafs have to re-sign Kyle Dubas (57:00), should the Leafs trade for Max Domi? (1:05:00), hockey by osmosis (1:15:00). Originally aired: December 23, 2022 Visit https://sdpn.ca for merch and more. We've joined The Athletic and you can too! Hit the link to subscribe: https://theathletic.com/sdp Any opinion expressed is not advice, a promise or suggestion that increases the chance of winning. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. To learn more, visit: https://help.sportsinteraction.com/hc/en-us/articles/216779528-Responsible-Gaming-Self-Limitation-Self-Exclusion Or if you have concerns about a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 1-866-531-2600. Ontario Only. Must be 19+ or older to play. Visit this episode's sponsors: Get 20% off + free shipping with the code DANGLE at https://Manscaped.com/. That's 20% off + free shipping with the code DANGLE at manscaped.com. It's time to get wet and clean with your new MANSCAPED™ Shower Routine." https://sportsinteraction.com/sdpn https://shopify.com/sdp https://athleticgreens.com/sdp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/sdp and get on your way to being your best self. Follow us on Twitter:@Steve_Dangle, @AdamWylde, & @JesseBlake Follow us on Instagram:@SteveDangle, @AdamWylde, & @Jesse.Blake Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
BEST SHOW BESTS! Philly Boy Roy calls in and recites "Twas The Night Before Christmas Future, Philly Style"! (Originally aired December 23rd, 2014) New to the Best Show? Check out Best Show Bests, the greatest hits of The Best Show! Streaming every Thursday night on Twitch at 6pm PT and available every Friday on your podcast app. WATCH THE BEST SHOW LIVE EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT 6PM PT ON TWITCH https://www.twitch.tv/bestshow4life SUPPORT THE BEST SHOW ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/TheBestShow WATCH VIDEO EPISODES OF THE BEST SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/bestshow4life FOLLOW THE BEST SHOW: https://twitter.com/bestshow4life https://instagram.com/bestshow4life https://tiktok.com/@bestshow4life THE BEST SHOW IS A FOREVER DOG PODCAST https://thebestshow.net https://foreverdogpodcasts.com/podcasts/the-best-show Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices