Podcasts about christmas tales

Learn how by mid-December, 1776, the American Revolution was in desperate straits. Explore that after a series of defeats, the American Army had retreated through New Jersey and was stationed in Pennsylvania — with the British Army across the Delaware River. The Continental Army was on the verge of utter collapse.Overconfident, the British went into Winter Quarters. Congress gave George Washington enormous authority, and Washington used the lull in fighting and his new power to reorganize and strengthen his troops. Washington and his officers designed a daring attack on Hessian forces in Trenton, New Jersey. Before the battle, Washington inspired the troops through the reading of Thomas Paine's American Crisis. Follow Washington's troops through the winter storm, the crossing of the nearly frozen Delaware River, an arduous march, and the pitched battle. The fate of the new nation depends on it.Through divine intervention, Washington was able to mount a surprise attack on the hated Hessian troops in Trenton, winning an improbable victory, which became a critical turning point in the war.Highlights include David Hackett Fisher, Washington's Crossing, James McPherson, Christmas 1776, Delaware River, Hessian soldiers, Trenton New Jersey, Your Excellency, Battle of Bunker Hill, Battle of Long Island a/k/a the Battle of Brooklyn a/k/a/ the Battle of Brooklyn Heights, Continental Army, Brooklyn Heights, Battle of Harlem Heights, New York City, Thomas Paine, Common Sense, General Charles Lee, General William Howe, The American Crisis, Federalist Papers, Pennsylvania Journal, Second Continental Congress, Henry Steel Commager, Richard B. Morris, James Gant, Colonel Johann Rall, Colonel Joseph Reed, militia, Hessians, Hanoverians, Mechlenburghers, Christmas Day, Fifer John Greenwood, General James Ewing, Colonel John Cadwalader, Highlanders, General Israel Putnam, Christmas Eve, American Crisis No. 1, “These are the times that try men's souls,” Lieutenant Andreas Von Wiederholdt, Major Friedrich von Dechow, Captain Thomas Rodney, Daniel Hitchcock, Lieutenant Widerholdt, Victory or Death!, Sergeant Madden, General Nathanael Greene, Captain William Hull, the first use of synchronized watches to time a military battle, Captain George Wallis, Adam Stephens, Virginia's Fourth Regiment, Major John Sullivan, artillery barrage, future President James Monroe, General Henry Knox, Battle of Trenton, and many others.To learn more about George Washington the American Revolution & Patriot Week, visit www.PatriotWeek.org. Our resources include videos, a TV series, blogs, lesson plans, and more.Check out Judge Michael Warren's upcoming new book, The Revolutionary Words that Forged America - The Definitive Guide to the Declaration of Independence (Republic Books 2026), available for pre-order on amazon.com (release date, April 14, 2026).Merry Christmas!

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Finding Inspiration: A Christmas Tale in Piazza Navona Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-12-26-08-38-20-it Story Transcript:It: Nel cuore di Roma, sotto un cielo grigio d'inverno, Piazza Navona brillava di luci natalizie.En: In the heart of Roma, under a gray winter sky, Piazza Navona shone with Christmas lights.It: C'erano bancarelle ovunque, che esponevano dolci profumati e regali fatti a mano.En: There were stalls everywhere, displaying fragrant sweets and handmade gifts.It: L'aria, fredda e pungente, era piena di musica, risate e l'inebriante aroma di caldarroste.En: The air, cold and sharp, was filled with music, laughter, and the intoxicating aroma of roasted chestnuts.It: Alessio camminava lentamente tra la folla.En: Alessio walked slowly through the crowd.It: Portava un cappello di lana che nascondeva i suoi riccioli scuri e una sciarpa avvolta stretta intorno al collo.En: He wore a wool hat that hid his dark curls and a scarf wrapped tightly around his neck.It: Cercava ispirazione per il suo nuovo quadro.En: He was looking for inspiration for his new painting.It: Era un giovane artista in cerca della sua musa.En: He was a young artist searching for his muse.It: Al suo fianco c'era Giulia.En: Beside him was Giulia.It: Pratica e premurosa, lei osservava Alessio con un misto di preoccupazione e affetto.En: Practical and caring, she watched Alessio with a mix of concern and affection.It: "Devi pensare al futuro, Alessio," gli disse, scuotendo la testa mentre un carretto di zucchero filato passava accanto a loro.En: "You need to think about the future, Alessio," she said, shaking her head as a cotton candy cart passed by them.It: In quel momento, Matteo, il loro amico d'infanzia, tornato dall'estero, si unì a loro con un grande sorriso.En: At that moment, Matteo, their childhood friend, returned from abroad and joined them with a big smile.It: "Roma mi è mancata!En: "Roma really missed me!It: E voi ancora di più!En: And you guys even more!It: ", esclamò abbracciandoli forte.En: ", he exclaimed, embracing them tightly.It: Alessio sorrise, ma dentro di sé si sentiva frustrato.En: Alessio smiled, but inside he felt frustrated.It: La piazza era piena di vita, ma lui non riusciva a trovare l'immagine perfetta da dipingere.En: The square was full of life, but he couldn't find the perfect image to paint.It: Decise di fermarsi e osservare le persone attorno.En: He decided to stop and observe the people around.It: Vide famiglie che si scattavano foto davanti alla grande fontana, bambini che correvano intorno agli alberi decorati, e coppie che si scambiavano piccoli doni dal mercato.En: He saw families taking photos in front of the big fountain, children running around the decorated trees, and couples exchanging small gifts from the market.It: Eppure, niente sembrava colpire l'immaginazione di Alessio.En: Yet, nothing seemed to strike Alessio's imagination.It: Poi, all'improvviso, vide una scena che gli fece battere il cuore.En: Then, suddenly, he saw a scene that made his heart race.It: Un'anziana coppia, mano nella mano, si avvicinava a una bancarella.En: An elderly couple, hand in hand, approached a stall.It: I loro volti erano solcati dal tempo, ma si illuminavano di gioia mentre due bambini si lanciavano loro tra le braccia.En: Their faces were lined with time, but they lit up with joy as two children threw themselves into their arms.It: Le risate dei due piccoli e l'affetto sincero tra i nonni accesero una scintilla in Alessio.En: The laughter of the little ones and the sincere affection between the grandparents sparked something in Alessio.It: "È questo!En: "That's it!"It: ", esclamò, sorpreso dalla forza della sua visione.En: he exclaimed, surprised by the strength of his vision.It: Giulia lo guardò attentamente.En: Giulia looked at him carefully.It: "Hai visto qualcosa, vero?"En: "You saw something, didn't you?"It: Alessio assentì, con gli occhi pieni di nuova luce.En: Alessio nodded, his eyes full of new light.It: "I volti, le emozioni, le connessioni... sono l'essenza di questo Natale."En: "The faces, the emotions, the connections... they are the essence of this Christmas."It: Con rinnovata energia, Alessio si mise in un angolo tranquillo della piazza e cominciò a disegnare, perdendosi nei dettagli e nei sentimenti della scena che aveva visto.En: With renewed energy, Alessio found a quiet corner of the square and began to draw, losing himself in the details and feelings of the scene he had witnessed.It: Matteo lo guardava, impressionato dalla dedizione dell'amico ritrovato.En: Matteo watched him, impressed by the dedication of his rediscovered friend.It: Giulia, sollevata, gli diede una pacca sulla spalla.En: Giulia, relieved, gave him a pat on the shoulder.It: "Forse hai davvero trovato il modo di far funzionare la tua arte."En: "Perhaps you've truly found a way to make your art work."It: Quella sera, mentre le luci di Natale si riflettevano sui ciottoli umidi della piazza, Alessio capì che c'era un modo per bilanciare la passione e la realtà.En: That evening, as the Christmas lights reflected on the wet cobblestones of the square, Alessio realized there was a way to balance passion and reality.It: La sua tela si riempiva lentamente di vita, mentre una nuova determinazione cresceva dentro di lui.En: His canvas slowly filled with life as new determination grew within him.It: Questa volta, non solo aveva trovato la sua ispirazione, ma anche un cammino che univa il cuore e la ragione.En: This time, not only had he found his inspiration, but also a path that united heart and reason. Vocabulary Words:the heart: il cuorethe square: la piazzathe stalls: le bancarellefragrant: profumatithe gifts: i regalisharp: pungentethe scarf: la sciarpathe muse: la musapractical: praticacaring: premurosathe future: il futurothe childhood: l'infanziaabroad: l'esterofrustrated: frustratocouples: coppieto strike: colpirethe imagination: l'immaginazioneto approach: avvicinarsilined: solcatithe joy: la gioiasincere: sincerothe spark: la scintillato witness: assistereto draw: disegnarethe details: i dettaglithe feelings: i sentimentirenewed: rinnovatadetermination: determinazionethe canvas: la telato unite: unire

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Business Sealed with Stroopwafels: An Amsterdam Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-25-08-38-19-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De maan scheen helder boven de grachten van Amsterdam.En: The moon shone brightly over the canals of Amsterdam.Nl: De lucht was koud, maar niet guur.En: The air was cold, but not harsh.Nl: Overal hingen lichtjes, als dansende sterren aan de bomen en bruggen.En: Lights hung everywhere, like dancing stars on the trees and bridges.Nl: De geur van versgebakken oliebollen vulde de lucht.En: The scent of freshly baked oliebollen filled the air.Nl: Het was de avond voor Kerst, en de stad was gehuld in een feestelijke gloed.En: It was the evening before Christmas, and the city was wrapped in a festive glow.Nl: Pieter stond op de kade bij de Prinsengracht.En: Pieter stood on the quay by the Prinsengracht.Nl: Hij wreef zijn handen warm terwijl hij wachtte.En: He rubbed his hands warm while he waited.Nl: Nog tien dagen en dan zou het jaar eindigen.En: Just ten days and the year would end.Nl: Het was zijn moment om te schitteren.En: This was his moment to shine.Nl: Als hij deze deal kon sluiten, zou de promotie naar hem gaan.En: If he could close this deal, the promotion would be his.Nl: Naast hem stond Marijke, zijn collega en stille kracht.En: Beside him stood Marijke, his colleague and silent support.Nl: "Denk je dat Sven komt?En: "Do you think Sven will come?"Nl: " vroeg ze zacht.En: she asked softly.Nl: "Hij zei dat hij er zou zijn," antwoordde Pieter met een knik, al dwaalden zijn gedachten af.En: "He said he would be here," answered Pieter with a nod, though his thoughts wandered.Nl: Sven was een belangrijke klant, maar ook een man die van gemak en feestelijkheden hield.En: Sven was an important client, but also a man who loved comfort and festivities.Nl: Kerstmis was niet de ideale tijd voor harde onderhandelingen.En: Christmas was not the ideal time for hard negotiations.Nl: Plotseling kwam Sven eraan, zijn lange jas wapperend in de wind.En: Suddenly, Sven arrived, his long coat flapping in the wind.Nl: "Ah, wat een prachtige avond!En: "Ah, what a beautiful evening!"Nl: " riep hij uit, zijn ogen glinsterend door het kaarslicht dat weerspiegelde in de grachten.En: he exclaimed, his eyes sparkling in the candlelight reflected in the canals.Nl: "Zullen we genieten van de stad?En: "Shall we enjoy the city?"Nl: "Pieter glimlachte moeizaam.En: Pieter smiled wryly.Nl: "Natuurlijk, Sven," begon hij.En: "Of course, Sven," he began.Nl: "Maar laten we ook even.En: "But let's also discuss...Nl: zaken bespreken?En: business?"Nl: "Sven veegde het voorstel van tafel met een grijns.En: Sven brushed the proposal aside with a grin.Nl: "Pieter, kijk eens om je heen.En: "Pieter, look around you.Nl: De wereld is zo mooi.En: The world is so beautiful.Nl: Laten we dat niet vergeten te vieren.En: Let's not forget to celebrate that."Nl: "Pieter keek naar Marijke, die hem een veelbetekenende blik gaf.En: Pieter looked at Marijke, who gave him a meaningful glance.Nl: Dit was zijn kans om Sven te imponeren, maar niet met cijfers en contracten.En: This was his chance to impress Sven, but not with numbers and contracts.Nl: Met een zucht, deed Pieter zijn jasje dicht.En: With a sigh, Pieter buttoned his jacket.Nl: "Je hebt gelijk, Sven.En: "You're right, Sven.Nl: Maar misschien kunnen we zaken doen op een andere manier.En: But maybe we can do business in another way."Nl: "Nieuwsgierig draaide Sven zich naar Pieter.En: Curiously, Sven turned to Pieter.Nl: "Hoe bedoel je?En: "What do you mean?"Nl: ""Kom met ons mee," zei Pieter, wijzend naar een kleine rondvaartboot die klaar lag.En: "Come with us," said Pieter, pointing to a small tour boat that was ready.Nl: Samen met Marijke en Sven stapte hij in.En: Together with Marijke and Sven, he stepped in.Nl: Het bootje glipte geluidloos door de grachten, terwijl kerstliederen zachtjes klonken uit een nabijgelegen café.En: The boat glided silently through the canals, while Christmas carols softly played from a nearby café.Nl: Pieter reikte onder zijn stoel en haalde een doosje tevoorschijn.En: Pieter reached under his seat and pulled out a small box.Nl: "Een vroege kerstcadeau," zei hij glimlachend.En: "An early Christmas gift," he said, smiling.Nl: Hij overhandigde Sven een doos met handgemaakte stroopwafels, elk opgedrukt met een kleine boodschap over de samenwerking en vriendschap.En: He handed Sven a box of handmade stroopwafels, each imprinted with a small message about collaboration and friendship.Nl: Sven was ontroerd.En: Sven was touched.Nl: "Dit is precies waar Kerstmis om draait," zei hij zacht.En: "This is exactly what Christmas is all about," he said softly.Nl: "Pieter, laten we hierop proosten.En: "Pieter, let's toast to this.Nl: De deal is rond.En: The deal is closed."Nl: "Marijke gaf Pieter een duwtje en lachte.En: Marijke gave Pieter a nudge and laughed.Nl: "Wie had gedacht dat stroopwafels de sleutel tot succes waren?En: "Who would have thought that stroopwafels were the key to success?"Nl: "Terugkijkend op de avond realiseerde Pieter zich dat hij meer had bereikt met oprechte aandacht dan met pure zakelijkheid.En: Looking back on the evening, Pieter realized that he achieved more with genuine attention than with pure business acumen.Nl: Hij glimlachte terwijl de boot hen terugbracht.En: He smiled as the boat brought them back.Nl: Soms was het de kunst van het geven die uiteindelijk het meeste bracht, vooral in de warme gloed van de feestdagen.En: Sometimes it was the art of giving that ultimately brought the most, especially in the warm glow of the holidays. Vocabulary Words:shone: scheenharsh: guurscents: geurquay: kadewryly: moeizaamcandlelight: kaarslichtreflected: weerspiegeldebuttoned: deed...dichtcuriously: nieuwsgierigglided: gliptetouched: ontroerdsalient: veelbetekenendenudge: duwtjeimprinted: opgedruktfestivities: feestelijkhedengenuine: oprechtebusiness acumen: zakelijkheidultimate: uiteindelijkwrapped: gehuldcollaboration: samenwerkingsparkling: glinsterendcontracts: contractenproposal: voorstelbridge: bruggennearby: nabijgelegencelebrate: vierengrin: grijnscheerfully: glimlachendsilent support: stille krachtcafé: café

Rebecca and Tori along with guest host, Debra, wind up Scrooge-Off 2025. This final round finds us discussing the 1984 'A Christmas Carol,' starring George C. Scott and the 1951 version starring Alastair Sim. Who will take the crown?MusicApache Rock Instrumental by Sound Atelier licensed through Jamendo Music.A Christmas Tale by Aleksey Voronin on PixabaySound EffectsRecord Scratch: Sound Effect free on Pixabay

Santa makes an unexpected landing in Mythoss and is met by two fuzzmonks. Where will the adventure take them?This is an unofficial fan story written by Richard Jones. If you are a Patreon supporter listen right to the end for a very special message. Support us! https://www.patreon.com/TheEuroLegionsPodcasthttps://linktr.ee/theeurolegionspodcastmythic legions toy collecting fantasy cosmic legions

Merry Christmas and happy every other holiday! In this episode, John and Julia each recommend five of their favorite "alternative" Christmas movies. The like of It's a Wonderful Life, Home Alone, Love Actually, Miracle on 34th Street, and, yes, even Die Hard are off-limits. Instead, we present 10 movies that are maybe not in your annual Christmas rotation but ought to be! Enjoy! Julia's picks: The Ref (1994) Carol (2015) The Man Who Came to Dinner (1941) A Christmas Tale (2008) The Shop Around the Corner (1940) John's picks: Rare Exports (2010) A Midwinter's Tale (1995) 8-Bit Christmas (2021) About A Boy (2002) Little Women (1994)

Tonight's episode brings you a tender Christmas tale filled with simplicity, warmth, and the quiet magic of the season. Little Gretchen and the Wooden Shoe, written by Elizabeth Harrison, invites us into the humble world of a young girl and her grandmother who greet each Christmas with hope, gratitude, and love — even when they have very little. This heartwarming tale is a reminder of the quiet blessings that find their way to us when we least expect them. Wishing each of you a peaceful, heartfelt holiday season — may it be filled with comfort, kindness, and gentle moments of joy. So get cozy, snuggle in, and let this gentle Christmas story carry you toward peaceful rest.Sweet dreams, JoanneMy new audiobook Tales to Help You Sleep is now available on Audible! US  ➜ Click hereCA  ➜ Click hereUK  ➜ Click hereAU  ➜ Click hereAlready an Audible member? Just add it to your library.New to Audible? Start your free trial with my book as your first listen and help support the podcast!If you decide to purchase through this link, I do receive a small benefit at no extra cost to you. It truly helps me continue sharing these bedtime stories, and I'm so grateful for your support. My Drift Off Dreams Coloring Book is now available on Amazon!  With 33 soothing illustrations, it's a cozy way to find calm at the end of the day. Find your copy here: https://mybook.to/DriftOffDreamsDrift Off Premium — Sweet Dreams Await Support an ad-free podcast for everyone Weekly bonus bedtime stories to enrich your sleep routine Exclusive early access to one new episode each month Full-length audiobooks for sleep to calm your mind and help you drift off Available on Apple Podcasts and Supercast *Subscribe on Apple Podcasts from the show page, or visit driftoff.supercast.com to join through Supercast. Did you know you can also listen to my regular bedtime stories on Insight Timer for free? It's a peaceful space for rest and relaxation. Also, for just $9.99/month, you'll get access to my premium stories plus meditations, music, and live sessions from other amazing teachers. Come curl up in this cozy corner of calm, where sweet dreams are always waiting. https://insighttimer.com/relaxforawhile Oh… and be sure to drift over to the podcast website to see what cozy wonders await you! https://www.driftoffpodcast.com

On the two hundred and eighty-third episode of THE THIRD ACT PODCAST, the crew are sipping spiked eggnog and yearning for the Flicksmas singers.Christian, Jericho, Armando, and returning guest Mayra Russo usher in the 2025 edition of Merry Flicksmas (an annual crossover with the fine folks at The Flicksation Podcast) with reviews of Todd Haynes' 2015 romantic drama CAROL, 2005 Mike Patton-starring cult thriller FIRECRACKER, 2008 French melodrama A CHRISTMAS TALE, and Céline Sciamma's 2021 Ghibli-esque fable PETITE MAMAN. Meanwhile, SENTIMENTAL VALUE, IF I HAD LEGS I'D KICK YOU, WHITE NOISE (2022), DOG DAY AFTERNOON (1975), GREMLINS (1984), ROOFMAN, JAY KELLY, and ELLA MCCAY are up for discussion in the Recently Watched segment.They also chat Xmas music playlists, super sub Robert Gassaway, Discord ambient noise reduction, Mayra having a doctorate, Flickmas singers lore, and Bobby "Uncannavale Valley."  Subscribe to Jericho's Substack: symbioticreviews.substack.comKeep in touch with us on Instagram and email us anytime at: TheThirdActPodcast@gmail.com   

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Ocean of Reconciliation: A Christmas Tale of Family Healing Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-12-23-23-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El vent fred de l'hivern acaricia la Costa Brava, deixant l'escenari perfecte per a una reunió familiar enmig de les festes de Nadal.En: The cold winter wind caresses the Costa Brava, setting the perfect scene for a family gathering amidst the Christmas holidays.Ca: Gemma contemplava el mar des del penya-segat, pensativa.En: Gemma was contemplating the sea from the cliff, pensive.Ca: Aquell any, la reunió de Nadal estava tenyida d'una tensió visible.En: That year, the Christmas gathering was tinged with visible tension.Ca: El seu germà Oriol encara estava enfadat.En: Her brother Oriol was still angry.Ca: Han discutit fa poc, i la Gemma sap que si no fan les paus, el Nadal serà trist.En: They had argued recently, and Gemma knows that if they don't make peace, Christmas will be sad.Ca: A la part més amagada de la cala, allí on la sorra es barrejava amb les pedres i les onades xiuxiuejaven secrets, la Gemma va decidir que era el moment.En: In the most hidden part of the cove, where the sand mingled with the stones and the waves whispered secrets, Gemma decided it was the moment.Ca: Aquell racó de la costa, ben estimat per tothom, seria el lloc on intentaria fer les paus amb l'Oriol.En: That cherished corner of the coast would be the place where she would try to make peace with Oriol.Ca: —Oriol, podem parlar un moment?En: "Oriol, can we talk for a moment?"Ca: —va preguntar en veu baixa.En: she asked softly.Ca: Ell, inicialment reticent, va assentir amb el cap.En: He, initially reluctant, nodded.Ca: Sabia que el lloc on es trobaven feia que qualsevol conversa fos més fàcil.En: He knew that the place they were in made any conversation easier.Ca: La bellesa de la natura tenia la capacitat de suavitzar fins al cor més dur.En: The beauty of nature had the capacity to soften even the hardest heart.Ca: Les onades es trencaven suaument mentre el sol queia lentament sobre les aigües blaves.En: The waves broke gently while the sun slowly set over the blue waters.Ca: La Gemma va mirar el seu germà als ulls.En: Gemma looked into her brother's eyes.Ca: —Estic penedida de com van anar les coses.En: "I regret how things went.Ca: Mai vaig voler que et sentissis malament —va dir amb sinceritat.En: I never wanted you to feel bad," she said sincerely.Ca: Ell la va mirar amb una barreja de ressentiment i tristesa.En: He looked at her with a mix of resentment and sadness.Ca: —Em vas fer sentir ximple davant de tothom.En: "You made me feel foolish in front of everyone.Ca: No puc oblidar-ho així com així —va respondre, la seva veu trencant-se.En: I can't forget it just like that," he responded, his voice breaking.Ca: Les paraules del seu germà van colpejar la Gemma com una onada sobtada.En: Her brother's words hit Gemma like a sudden wave.Ca: Després de silencis plens i pesants, ella va reunir forces per parlar.En: After heavy and loaded silences, she gathered the strength to speak.Ca: —Ho sento molt.En: "I'm really sorry.Ca: No va ser la meva intenció.En: It wasn't my intention.Ca: Potser no vaig saber com expressar-me.En: Maybe I didn't know how to express myself.Ca: Ets el meu germà, i no puc imaginar-me els Nadals sense tu.En: You're my brother, and I can't imagine Christmas without you."Ca: Els ulls de l'Oriol es van suavitzar.En: Oriol's eyes softened.Ca: Potser era el lloc, potser era la sinceritat a la veu de la seva germana, però va sentir com el gel dins seu començava a fondre's.En: Perhaps it was the place, perhaps it was the sincerity in his sister's voice, but he felt the ice inside him beginning to melt.Ca: —Jo també he fet i dit coses de les quals em penedeixo —va admetre, amb la mirada fixa en les onades—.En: "I've also done and said things I regret," he admitted, his gaze fixed on the waves.Ca: Hem deixat que tonteries es posin al mig de nosaltres.En: "We've let trivialities come between us."Ca: Amb aquestes paraules, les tensions es desfeien.En: With these words, the tension dissolved.Ca: Els dos germans es van abraçar envoltats pel so tranquil del mar.En: The two siblings embraced, surrounded by the soothing sound of the sea.Ca: Al final, la Gemma i l'Oriol van tornar a casa, on els esperaven els seus pares amb preocupació però també amb esperança.En: In the end, Gemma and Oriol returned home, where their parents awaited them with concern but also with hope.Ca: L'ambient estava canviant.En: The atmosphere was changing.Ca: Les llums de Nadal brillaven a la distància, i la calidesa de la reconciliació omplia l'aire fred de la nit.En: Christmas lights twinkled in the distance, and the warmth of reconciliation filled the cold night air.Ca: En tornar, el clima familiar era diferent.En: Upon returning, the family climate was different.Ca: Hi havia un aire de serenor.En: There was an air of serenity.Ca: Tots dos havien entès que els vincles familiars eren de les coses més importants del món.En: Both understood that family ties were among the most important things in the world.Ca: Aprenent a comunicar-se millor, Roser i Oriol van decidir treballar perquè el Nadal fos tan especial i harmoniós com mereixien tots plegats.En: Learning to communicate better, Roser and Oriol decided to work on making Christmas as special and harmonious as everyone deserved.Ca: I així, amb el cor més lleuger i ple de promeses de futurs millors, la família es va preparar per gaudir d'unes festes realment memorables.En: And so, with lighter hearts and promises of better futures, the family prepared to enjoy truly memorable holidays. Vocabulary Words:the cliff: el penya-segatpensive: pensativathe tension: la tensióangry: enfadatto argue: discutirto make peace: fer les paushidden: amagadathe cove: la calato mingle: barrejar-sethe stones: les pedresto whisper: xiuxiuejarto nod: assentirreluctant: reticentto soften: suavitzarto regret: penedir-sesincerely: amb sinceritatthe resentment: el ressentimentto hit: colpejarto express: expressar-seto melt: fondre'sthe gaze: la miradatrivialities: tonteriesto dissolve: desfer-seto embrace: abraçar-sethe atmosphere: l'ambienttwinkled: brillaventhe warmth: la calidesaserenity: serenorthe family ties: els vincles familiarsto prepare: preparar-se

Send us a textThe tradition of holiday horror continues, with perhaps some lesser-known titles. A group of children discover someone in a Santa suit has fallen into a pit in the forest in Cuento de Navidad (2005). More children, during a family get together, seem to fall ill, resulting in homicidal tendencies in The Children (2008). And finally, isn't it time for Christmas trees to exact vengeance for all of their tree family members who have been chopped down over the years? It's time for Treevenge (2008)!

HO HO HO! On this weeks episode of Katie Afraidy we review (or at least attempt to) Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale with the jolly man himself- Santa!  A young boy named Pietari (Onni Tommila) and his friend Juuso (Ilmari Järvenpää) think a secret mountain drilling project near their home in northern Finland has uncovered the tomb of Santa Claus. However, this a monstrous, evil Santa, much unlike the cheery St. Nick of legend. When Pietari's father (Jorma Tommila) captures a feral old man (Peeter Jakobi) in his wolf trap, the man may hold the key to why reindeer are being slaughtered and children are disappearing. WANT STICKERS?  https://www.stickermule.com/katieafraidy Subscirbe on Patreon for EXTENDED UNCUT Episodes, Stickers, and SO MUCH MORE! https://www.patreon.com/KatieAfraidy Get ready for more chaos coming every TUESDAY!  Old episodes of Horror at The Store will be reposted to YouTube every THURSDAY!  Use code KATIEAFRAIDY25 to get 25% off of your Fangoria subscription ! Check out Filmcraft Studio Gear! https://www.instagram.com/filmcraftla/ Please don't forget to subscribe, share, and give us a review! Love my little spooky community!  Follow us on Socials! https://www.instagram.com/katie.afraidy/ https://www.instagram.com/kthetty/ https://www.tiktok.com/@katie.afraidy https://www.tiktok.com/@kthetty Produced by Keida Mascaro https://www.instagram.com/keidamascaro/ The Cave Podcast Studio https://www.instagram.com/thecavepodcaststudio/ Voiceover by Devyn Perry https://www.instagram.com/devynbperry/?hl=en Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/katie-afraidy/id1647102737 https://open.spotify.com/show/33nXkTFCfsGqcWBckdm952

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Lights of Antigua: A Christmas Tale of Connection Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2025-12-22-08-38-20-es Story Transcript:Es: Antigua, Guatemala, se viste de luz y color durante la temporada navideña.En: Antigua, Guatemala, dresses in light and color during the Christmas season.Es: En pleno verano del hemisferio sur, la plaza central se llena de vida.En: In the middle of the southern hemisphere's summer, the central square fills with life.Es: Se coloca una gran cantidad de luces de colores, banderines vibrantes, y puestos repletos de arte y comida, mientras el aire se impregna de música alegre y el sonido de las risas.En: A great number of colored lights, vibrant banners, and stalls brimming with art and food are set up, while the air is saturated with cheerful music and the sound of laughter.Es: Todo esto ocurre bajo la mirada atenta de la arquitectura colonial que hace de marco perfecto para esta escena festiva.En: All of this occurs under the attentive gaze of the colonial architecture that provides the perfect backdrop for this festive scene.Es: Adriana es una joven artesana enamorada de su arte.En: Adriana is a young artisan in love with her craft.Es: Su mesa está llena de adornos hechos a mano, cada uno con un detalle único y personal.En: Her table is full of handmade ornaments, each with a unique and personal detail.Es: Sin embargo, hay muchos puestos más llamativos y empaquetados comercialmente que capturan a los compradores con facilidad.En: However, there are many more eye-catching and commercially packaged stalls that easily capture shoppers.Es: Esta situación preocupa a Adriana.En: This situation worries Adriana.Es: Necesita vender suficientes adornos para poder comprar un regalo especial para su hermano menor.En: She needs to sell enough ornaments to buy a special gift for her younger brother.Es: Con esa idea en mente, decide mover su puesto un poco más cerca del camino principal, donde hay más gente.En: With this in mind, she decides to move her stall a little closer to the main path, where there are more people.Es: Por otro lado, Mateo, un viajero venido desde España, camina con curiosidad.En: On the other hand, Mateo, a traveler from Spain, walks with curiosity.Es: Ha llegado a Antigua buscando experiencias genuinas, algo más que el papel de un turista más.En: He has arrived in Antigua seeking genuine experiences, something more than just the role of a typical tourist.Es: Pero la multitud densa y el bullicio de la feria lo abruman.En: But the dense crowd and the bustle of the fair overwhelm him.Es: Anhela un rincón tranquilo, un lugar donde pueda conectar realmente con la esencia del lugar.En: He longs for a quiet corner, a place where he can truly connect with the essence of the place.Es: Mientras Adriana reorganiza cuidadosamente sus adornos bajo el sol brumoso del verano, Mateo, huyendo del barullo, tropieza con su pequeño puesto.En: While Adriana carefully rearranges her ornaments under the hazy summer sun, Mateo, escaping the commotion, stumbles upon her small stall.Es: Sin planes preconcebidos, se siente inmediatamente atraído por la habilidad y la dedicación evidente en cada adorno.En: Without preconceived plans, he is immediately drawn to the skill and dedication evident in each ornament.Es: Mateo, intrigado, decide hablar con Adriana.En: Mateo, intrigued, decides to speak with Adriana.Es: "Hola, estos adornos son preciosos.En: "Hello, these ornaments are beautiful.Es: ¿Cómo los haces?En: How do you make them?"Es: ", pregunta Mateo con un interés genuino.En: Mateo asks with genuine interest.Es: Adriana, aunque un poco tímida al principio, se anima a explicar el proceso que sigue para crear cada pieza.En: Adriana, although a bit shy at first, becomes animated as she explains the process she follows to create each piece.Es: A medida que conversan, Mateo se siente cada vez más conectado con ella y con su arte.En: As they converse, Mateo feels increasingly connected to her and her art.Es: Sin dudarlo, decide comprar varios adornos, entusiasmado por llevarse una parte auténtica de Antigua a casa.En: Without hesitation, he decides to buy several ornaments, excited to take an authentic piece of Antigua home.Es: Pero su encuentro no se detiene allí.En: But their encounter does not stop there.Es: "Voy a la procesión de Nochebuena.En: "I'm going to the Christmas Eve procession.Es: ¿Te gustaría unirte?En: Would you like to join?"Es: ", invita Mateo, esperando compartir más tradiciones con su nueva amiga.En: Mateo invites, hoping to share more traditions with his new friend.Es: Adriana acepta la invitación con una sonrisa cálida.En: Adriana accepts the invitation with a warm smile.Es: Se siente valorada y entiende que su trabajo es apreciado más allá de las ventas.En: She feels valued and understands that her work is appreciated beyond sales.Es: Inspirada por este nuevo lazo, decide crear un pequeño regalo artesanal para Mateo, como gesto de gratitud.En: Inspired by this new bond, she decides to create a small handmade gift for Mateo as a gesture of gratitude.Es: Días después, al ver la procesión juntos, ambos sienten haber encontrado más de lo que buscaban.En: Days later, watching the procession together, both feel they have found more than what they were searching for.Es: Adriana ha ganado confianza y la amistad de Mateo la ha llenado de alegría.En: Adriana has gained confidence, and the friendship of Mateo has filled her with joy.Es: Mateo regresa a España con más que recuerdos, regresa con una comprensión más profunda de lo que significa conectar de verdad con una cultura nueva.En: Mateo returns to Spain with more than memories; he returns with a deeper understanding of what it truly means to connect with a new culture.Es: Así, en la plaza central de Antigua, dos caminos se cruzaron en medio de luces y música, dando vida a una navidad inolvidable.En: Thus, in the central square of Antigua, two paths crossed amid lights and music, bringing life to an unforgettable Christmas. Vocabulary Words:ornament: el adornoartisan: el artesano / la artesanacraft: la artesaníabanner: el banderíncraftsman: el artesanostall: el puestoprocession: la procesiónsouthern hemisphere: el hemisferio surcolonial architecture: la arquitectura colonialessence: la esenciadensity: la densidadbustle: el bulliciobackground: el marcocorner: el rincóncrowd: la multitudencounter: el encuentrobond: el lazomemories: los recuerdostradition: la tradicióngaze: la miradafair: la feriajoy: la alegríatraveler: el viajero / la viajeracheerful: alegrecomradeship: la camaraderíato overwhelm: abrumarauthentic: auténticodecoration: la decoracióndedication: la dedicaciónshy: tímido/a

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Gifts from the Heart: A Seoul Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-12-22-23-34-02-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 서울의 겨울은 참 특별합니다.En: Winter in Seoul is truly special.Ko: 특히 인사동은 작은 골목마다 겨울의 정취가 가득합니다.En: Especially in Insadong, every small alley is filled with the essence of winter.Ko: 좁은 거리에는 형형색색의 등불이 걸려 있고, 구운 밤의 고소한 냄새가 코끝을 간지럽힙니다.En: Brightly colored lanterns hang in the narrow streets, and the savory smell of roasted chestnuts tickles the nose.Ko: 크리스마스를 앞두고 거리마다 열기가 오르며, 가게들은 전통 공예품과 화려한 장식으로 가득합니다.En: With Christmas approaching, the streets heat up with excitement, and the shops are filled with traditional crafts and dazzling decorations.Ko: 민준은 크리스마스 선물을 찾기 위해 인사동에 왔습니다.En: Minjun came to Insadong to find a Christmas present.Ko: 그의 목표는 사랑하는 여동생 지수에게 특별한 선물을 주는 것입니다.En: His goal is to give a special gift to his beloved younger sister Jisoo.Ko: 어렸을 때 함께했던 크리스마스의 따뜻함과 기쁨을 다시 나누고 싶었죠.En: He wanted to share again the warmth and joy of the Christmases they experienced together as children.Ko: 하지만 주변의 많은 사람들, 그리고 수많은 선택지 속에서 민준은 약간 어리둥절합니다.En: However, amidst the many people around and countless options, Minjun feels a bit bewildered.Ko: 게다가 한정된 예산까지, 그의 고민은 더욱 깊어집니다.En: Furthermore, with a limited budget, his dilemma deepens.Ko: 사람들 사이를 힘겹게 헤치고 나가자, 민준은 작은 공방 하나를 발견합니다.En: After struggling through the crowd, Minjun discovers a small workshop.Ko: 내부에는 한가히 앉아 작업하고 있는 젊은 여성이 있습니다.En: Inside, a young woman is leisurely sitting and working.Ko: 그녀의 이름은 하나입니다.En: Her name is Hana.Ko: 그녀는 민준을 보고 미소 지으며 말합니다. "무엇을 찾는 중인가요?"En: She sees Minjun and greets him with a smile, saying, "What are you looking for?"Ko: 민준은 눈을 반짝이며 대답했습니다. "여동생에게 줄 특별한 선물을 찾고 있어요. 하지만 주머니 사정이 좋지 않아 직접 만들려고 해요."En: Minjun's eyes sparkle as he responds, "I'm looking for a special gift for my younger sister, but my budget isn't great, so I want to make it myself."Ko: 하나는 민준의 이야기를 흥미롭게 들으며 다양한 아이디어를 제안합니다.En: Hana listens with interest to Minjun's story and suggests various ideas.Ko: 두 사람은 함께 공방의 재료를 고르고 밤늦게까지 작업에 몰두합니다.En: The two of them choose materials in the workshop and become engrossed in their work late into the night.Ko: 하나는 나무를 깎아 작은 상자를 만들고, 민준은 그 위에 아름다운 그림을 그립니다.En: Hana carves wood to make a small box, and Minjun paints a beautiful picture on it.Ko: 그림은 그들의 어린 시절, 가족과 함께했던 크리스마스를 떠올리게 합니다.En: The painting reminds them of their childhood, Christmases spent with family.Ko: 둘은 웃으며 이야기하며, 민준의 마음에는 어느새 따뜻함이 느껴집니다.En: They chat and laugh together, with warmth gradually filling Minjun's heart.Ko: 드디어 크리스마스 아침, 민준은 지수에게 직접 만든 선물을 건넸습니다.En: Finally, on Christmas morning, Minjun presented the handmade gift to Jisoo.Ko: 지수가 상자를 열고 그것을 보자, 그녀의 눈에 눈물이 맺혔습니다.En: When Jisoo opened the box and saw it, tears welled up in her eyes.Ko: "오빠, 정말 고마워. 이게 우리가 함께했던 크리스마스를 다시 생각나게 해."En: "Oppa, thank you so much. This makes me remember the Christmases we spent together."Ko: 민준은 지수의 손을 잡으며 말했습니다. "선물은 크지 않아도 우리의 추억으로 가득 채워져 있잖아."En: Holding Jisoo's hand, Minjun said, "Even if the gift isn't big, it's filled with our memories."Ko: 그 순간, 민준은 깨달았습니다. 선물의 진정한 가치는 가격이 아니라 그 안에 담긴 사랑과 마음이라는 것을.En: At that moment, Minjun realized that the true value of a gift lies not in its price but in the love and thought contained within.Ko: 크리스마스의 따스한 빛이 민준과 지수의 마음을 채우며, 가족의 소중함을 다시금 느끼게 해주는 그런 하루였습니다.En: It was a day where the warm light of Christmas filled the hearts of Minjun and Jisoo, reminding them once again of the preciousness of family. Vocabulary Words:essence: 정취roasted chestnuts: 구운 밤bewildered: 어리둥절한dilemma: 고민workshop: 공방leisurely: 한가히sparkle: 반짝engrossed: 몰두한carves: 깎다tears welled up: 눈물이 맺히다preciousness: 소중함limited budget: 한정된 예산savory: 고소한dazzling: 화려한goal: 목표crafts: 공예품chat: 이야기하다heat up: 열기가 오르다narrow: 좁은handmade: 직접 만든countless: 수많은smell: 냄새budget: 예산welled up: 맺히다sparkle: 반짝이다traditional: 전통materials: 재료carve: 깎다engrossed: 몰두하다precious: 소중한

Send us a textUnwrap a present filled with laughter as our special holiday podcast brings together some of comedy's most brilliant minds sharing their hilarious, heartwarming, and occasionally cringe-worthy Christmas experiences.Greg Schwem kicks things off with the evolution of his family's improvised Christmas carol tradition, where party guests receive personalized verses set to "Up on the Housetop" – a tradition born from alcohol and creativity that became an eagerly anticipated annual event. Meanwhile, Kermit Apio transports us to Hawaii, where Santa mysteriously arrives via yellow cab with a garbage bag full of presents in broad daylight, challenging everything we thought we knew about Christmas logistics while demonstrating children's remarkable ability to overlook inconsistencies when gifts are involved.The emotional highlight comes from Yakov Smirnoff, who recounts his family's first Christmas in America after escaping the Soviet Union. Having grown up with "New Year's trees" and "Father Frost" in a country where religious holidays were banned, Yakov was overwhelmed when neighbors in his Bronx apartment building showed up at his door with furniture, food, clothing, and appliances he didn't even recognize. "In this most wonderful nation on earth, there's a little bit of real Santa Claus in every American," he reflects.Gift-giving disasters abound as Tim Bedore shares his catastrophic decision to give his girlfriend an urn (which he didn't recognize as such) in front of her entire family, while Steve Bruner warns against giving appliances as Christmas presents. Larry Brown offers a different perspective on holiday disappointment, recounting how bombing his Tonight Show audition just before Christmas 1984 led to "probably the worst Christmas of my life."Whether you're celebrating with family, working through the holidays, or just needing a laugh to counter seasonal stress, these comedians' perspectives remind us that behind perfect holiday imagery, real celebrations are often messy, unexpected, and make the best stories for years to come. Pour some eggnog, find a comfortable spot, and let these comedy professionals unwrap the holiday season in ways that will have you laughing into the new year.Support the show www.StandupComedyPodcastNetwork.com Website....check it out, podcast, jokes, blogs, and More!"NEW" Video Podcast: Tag Team Talent Podcast on Spotify & YouTube Podcast Quality List: https://www.millionpodcasts.com/heritage-podcasts/ Please Write a Review: in-depth walk-through for leaving a review.Interested in Standup Comedy? Check out my books on Amazon..."20 Questions Answered about Being a Standup Comic""Be a Standup Comic...or just look like one"

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Finding Joy in Imperfection: A Heartfelt Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2025-12-21-08-38-20-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Snön föll mjukt och tyst över den lilla julmarknaden på gården.En: The snow fell softly and quietly over the small julmarknad in the yard.Sv: Det var ett magiskt landskap fyllt med doften av glögg och pepparkakor.En: It was a magical landscape filled with the scent of glögg and gingerbread cookies.Sv: Varje marknadsstånd glödde av varma ljus och visade stolt upp sina handgjorda varor.En: Each market stall glowed with warm lights and proudly displayed its handmade goods.Sv: Annika promenerade långsamt mellan stånden, hennes ögon sökande och tankarna rusade.En: Annika walked slowly between the stalls, her eyes searching and her thoughts racing.Sv: Hon älskade julen.En: She loved Christmas.Sv: Den var en tid för familj och kärlek.En: It was a time for family and love.Sv: Men varje år tänkte hon att hon behövde hitta de perfekta gåvorna för att verkligen visa sin omtänksamhet.En: But every year she thought that she needed to find the perfect gifts to really show her thoughtfulness.Sv: Johan, hennes man, gick lugnt bredvid henne.En: Johan, her husband, walked calmly beside her.Sv: "Kom ihåg att njuta," sa han leende och tog hennes hand.En: "Remember to enjoy," he said with a smile, taking her hand.Sv: Bakom dem gick Elin, Annikas barndomsvän.En: Behind them walked Elin, Annika's childhood friend.Sv: Elin var alltid spontan och sa: "Åh, Annika, glöm perfektionen!En: Elin was always spontaneous and said, "Oh, Annika, forget perfection!Sv: Det viktiga är att det kommer från hjärtat."En: What matters is that it comes from the heart."Sv: Kylan bet i kinderna, och Annika kände sig plötsligt stressad av tiden.En: The cold bit at their cheeks, and Annika suddenly felt stressed by the time.Sv: Snart skulle marknaden stänga, och hon hade fortfarande inga gåvor.En: The market would close soon, and she still had no gifts.Sv: Hon stannade framför ett stånd med underbart snidade träfigurer och suckade djupt.En: She stopped in front of a stall with wonderfully carved wooden figures and sighed deeply.Sv: "Följ din magkänsla," rådde Johan igen och log varmt.En: "Follow your gut feeling," advised Johan again, smiling warmly.Sv: Hans stöd gav Annika den trygghet hon behövde.En: His support gave Annika the reassurance she needed.Sv: Hon tog ett djupt andetag, luktade på den friska luften av gran och kanel, och bestämde sig för att lyssna till sitt hjärta.En: She took a deep breath, smelled the fresh air of pine and cinnamon, and decided to listen to her heart.Sv: Precis när stånden skulle börja slå igen fann hon en vacker, handgjord julprydnad.En: Just as the stalls were about to close, she found a beautiful, handmade Christmas ornament.Sv: Den liknade en som hon och Elin hade gjort som barn.En: It resembled one she and Elin had made as children.Sv: Hennes hjärta fylldes med en varm känsla och hon insåg att denna enkla sak hade ett stort värde.En: Her heart filled with a warm feeling, and she realized that this simple thing held great value.Sv: Hon köpte prydnaden och kände genast ro.En: She bought the ornament and immediately felt at peace.Sv: Johan och Elin log bredvid henne, deras ögon fulla av förståelse.En: Johan and Elin smiled beside her, their eyes full of understanding.Sv: "Det viktigaste är inte gåvorna," sade Elin, "utan tanken och kärleken bakom dem."En: "The most important thing isn't the gifts," said Elin, "but the thought and love behind them."Sv: När de lämnade marknaden och snön fortsatte falla över gården, kände Annika att hon hade lärt sig något viktigt.En: As they left the market and the snow continued to fall over the yard, Annika felt that she had learned something important.Sv: Hennes gåvor var bara en förlängning av hennes kärlek och det räckte.En: Her gifts were just an extension of her love, and that was enough.Sv: Kanske var detta den bästa julklapp hon kunde ge sig själv.En: Perhaps this was the best Christmas present she could give herself.Sv: De gick hand i hand mot bilen, tysta med bara ljudet av deras steg mot den knarriga snön.En: They walked hand in hand towards the car, silent with only the sound of their steps in the creaky snow.Sv: Annika log för sig själv, för hon visste att i år skulle julen verkligen bli speciell.En: Annika smiled to herself, because she knew that this year, Christmas would truly be special. Vocabulary Words:yard: gårdenmagical: magisktscent: doftenglowed: glöddethoughtfulness: omtänksamhetspontaneous: spontanperfection: perfektionenbit: betcheeks: kindernastressed: stressadstall: ståndcarved: snidadefigures: träfigurersigh: suckareassurance: trygghetornament: prydnadresembled: liknadepeace: rounderstanding: förståelseextension: förlängningcrunchy: knarrigaslowly: långsamtracing: rusadecalmly: lugntfrozen: frystwarmth: värmeexquisite: utsöktsilent: tystasound: ljudetsteps: steg

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Skating into Love: A Christmas Tale in Amsterdamse Bos Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-20-08-38-19-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De sneeuwvlokken dwarrelden gestaag naar beneden in het Amsterdamse Bos.En: The snowflakes drifted steadily down in the Amsterdamse Bos.Nl: De schaatsbaan glinsterde onder de fonkelende kerstverlichting.En: The ice rink sparkled under the twinkling Christmas lights.Nl: Sanne stond aan de rand van het ijs, haar adem zichtbaar in de koude lucht.En: Sanne stood at the edge of the ice, her breath visible in the cold air.Nl: Ze voelde de druk van de feestdagen, het gewicht van verwachtingen.En: She felt the pressure of the holidays, the weight of expectations.Nl: Esmee, haar beste vriendin, stond naast haar en gaf haar een bemoedigende glimlach.En: Esmee, her best friend, stood next to her and gave her an encouraging smile.Nl: "Probeer het gewoon, Sanne," zei Esmee.En: "Just try it, Sanne," said Esmee.Nl: "Je kunt wat plezier gebruiken."En: "You could use some fun."Nl: Tegen haar twijfels in deed Sanne haar schaatsen aan.En: Against her doubts, Sanne put on her skates.Nl: Op hetzelfde moment gleed Lucas het ijs op, zijn gitaar in de rugzak.En: At the same moment, Lucas glided onto the ice, his guitar in his backpack.Nl: Zijn muziek gaf hem altijd rust, maar vandaag was hij op zoek naar iets meer.En: His music always gave him peace, but today he was looking for something more.Nl: Inspiratie misschien.En: Inspiration, perhaps.Nl: Sanne zette haar eerste aarzelende stappen op het ijs.En: Sanne took her first hesitant steps on the ice.Nl: De kou beet in haar wangen, maar ze voelde zich levendig.En: The cold bit at her cheeks, but she felt alive.Nl: Ze zag Lucas op een afstandje.En: She saw Lucas from a distance.Nl: Zijn bewegingen waren soepel en zelfverzekerd.En: His movements were smooth and confident.Nl: Even ontmoetten hun blikken elkaar.En: For a moment, their eyes met.Nl: Lucas glimlachte naar haar, en tot Sannes verrassing vond ze zichzelf teruglachen.En: Lucas smiled at her, and to Sanne's surprise, she found herself smiling back.Nl: Ze schaatsten naar elkaar toe, ontwijkend en balancerend tussen andere schaatsers.En: They skated toward each other, dodging and balancing between other skaters.Nl: "Hoi, ik ben Lucas," zei hij toen ze elkaar bereikten.En: "Hi, I'm Lucas," he said when they reached each other.Nl: "Sanne," antwoordde ze met een verlegen lachje.En: "Sanne," she replied with a shy smile.Nl: Ze schaatsten samen in stilte, af en toe uitkijkend naar de heldere sterren boven hen.En: They skated together in silence, occasionally glancing up at the bright stars above them.Nl: Het was Lucas die de stilte verbrak.En: It was Lucas who broke the silence.Nl: "Wil je na het schaatsen warme chocolademelk drinken?"En: "Would you like to have hot chocolate after skating?"Nl: Sanne twijfelde even.En: Sanne hesitated for a moment.Nl: Haar hart zei ja, maar haar hoofd herinnerde haar aan eerdere teleurstellingen.En: Her heart said yes, but her mind reminded her of past disappointments.Nl: Maar iets aan Lucas' vriendelijke ogen moedigde haar aan.En: But something about Lucas' kind eyes encouraged her.Nl: "Ja, dat lijkt me gezellig," zei ze uiteindelijk.En: "Yes, that sounds nice," she eventually said.Nl: Onder de twinkelende kerstverlichting zaten ze aan een tafel bij een kraampje.En: Under the twinkling Christmas lights, they sat at a table by a stall.Nl: De geur van kaneel en chocola vulde de lucht.En: The scent of cinnamon and chocolate filled the air.Nl: Ze deelden hun dromen, hun angsten.En: They shared their dreams, their fears.Nl: Sanne vertelde over haar zoektocht naar echte verbinding, Lucas sprak over zijn verlangens om met muziek het hart van mensen te raken.En: Sanne talked about her quest for real connection, Lucas spoke about his desires to touch people's hearts with music.Nl: Het gesprek liep uren door, maar voelde als seconden.En: The conversation went on for hours but felt like seconds.Nl: Sanne besefte dat ze glimlachte, echt glimlachte.En: Sanne realized that she was smiling, really smiling.Nl: Iets wat ze al een tijdje niet had gedaan.En: Something she hadn't done in a while.Nl: Ze voelde een warmte van binnen, niet enkel door de warme chocolademelk.En: She felt a warmth inside, not just from the hot chocolate.Nl: Toen het tijd was om te vertrekken, liepen Sanne en Lucas naast elkaar over het besneeuwde pad.En: When it was time to leave, Sanne and Lucas walked side by side along the snowy path.Nl: Het heldere maanlicht verlichtte hun weg.En: The bright moonlight illuminated their way.Nl: Sanne voelde een nieuwe energie in zich.En: Sanne felt a new energy within her.Nl: Iets in haar was veranderd.En: Something inside her had changed.Nl: Ze keek naar Lucas en voelde de belofte van iets moois.En: She looked at Lucas and felt the promise of something beautiful.Nl: Hoewel de kou scherp was, voelde ze een onverwachte warmte in haar hart.En: Although the cold was sharp, she felt an unexpected warmth in her heart.Nl: De magie van de feestdagen had haar bereikt, en met Lucas' hand in de hare, stapte Sanne het nieuwe avontuur tegemoet.En: The magic of the holidays had reached her, and with Lucas' hand in hers, Sanne stepped toward the new adventure.Nl: Ze waren nog niet zeker waar de weg hen brengen zou, maar voor nu was dat genoeg.En: They weren't yet sure where the path would take them, but for now, that was enough.Nl: Samen vertrokken ze uit het Amsterdamse Bos, een opwindend gevoel van verwachting in de lucht.En: Together, they left the Amsterdamse Bos, an exciting sense of expectation in the air. Vocabulary Words:drifted: dwarreldensteadily: gestaagsparkled: glinsterdetwinkling: fonkelendepressure: drukexpectations: verwachtingenencouraging: bemoedigendehesitant: aarzelendebit: beetdodging: ontwijkendbalancing: balancerendguitar: gitaarbackpack: rugzakinspiration: inspiratieconfident: zelfverzekerdglancing: uitkijkendhesitated: twijfeldedisappointments: teleurstellingenencouraged: moedigdestall: kraampjecinnamon: kaneelfears: angstenquest: zoektochtconnection: verbindingdesires: verlangensrealized: besefteilluminated: verlichttepromise: beloftesharp: scherpunexpected: onverwachte

There is something about Christmas that invites old stories back into the light.The nights grow longer. The wind finds its voice in the bare branches. And somewhere, just beyond the glow of the firepit, the past waits patiently to be heard once more.In this special festive episode, I invite you to join me by the fire for a winter tale steeped in honour, mystery, and the old magic of Britain. Together, we step into the medieval world of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight — a story born of Christmas feasting and New Year challenges, where courage is tested not by sword alone, but by truth, humility, and the keeping of one's word.From King Arthur's candlelit hall to a snow-laden forest and a chapel of uncanny green stone, this is a tale that carries the chill of winter and the warmth of human frailty in equal measure. It is a story about bravery, yes — but also about temptation, fear, and the quiet strength it takes to face judgement when the games are done.As the embers crackle and the dark presses close, I'll guide you through this ancient legend in my own voice, as it might once have been told: slowly, deliberately, and with room for the listener to wander its shadows.If you enjoy this tale and would like to explore more stories, folklore, and fireside tellings, you can find me atwww.welshstoryteller.comYou can also support my work through:Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/owenstatonPatreon: patreon.com/owenstaton7Substack: owenstaton.substack.comhttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-signalman-by-charles-dickens-read-on-christmas-eve-by-owen-staton-tickets-1975348008067?aff=oddtdtcreatorSo draw closer to the fire, let the winter night settle around you, and listen — for Christmas is the perfect time for a challenge, and every story demands its answer.Take care my friends and Nadolig LlawenOwen x

Hans is joined by Robert Greenway, military veteran and Director of the Allison Center for National Security at Heritage, to discuss the German siege of American forces in Bastogne, which occurred over Christmas in 1944 during the Battle of the Bulge. The Classic Movie Review is of “Battleground,” the 1949 film about the battle, directed […]

Horns, Hostages, and Human Trafficking Santa – Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)This week on Bad Dads Film Review, we go full Finland and unwrap a Christmas movie that answers the question nobody asked: what if Santa Claus wasn't a jolly gift-giver, but an ancient, horned, child-snatching nightmare buried under a mountain?Our main feature is Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (dir. Jalmari Helander), a wintery sci-fi/horror-dark-comedy that feels like The Thing wandered into a folk tale, got frostbite, and decided to start a black-market Santa operation.The setup is instantly great: a US drilling team blasts into the Korvatunturi mountain and hits something that absolutely should not be thawed. Nearby, reindeer herders start finding their animals slaughtered, children begin disappearing, and weird petty theft spreads through the village — radios, hairdryers, potato sacks… all vanishing like some grim Advent calendar of doom.At the centre is young Pietari, a kid who's convinced Santa is real… and that Santa is coming to punish him. While the adults argue about Russians, borders and compensation invoices, Pietari is reading ancient texts about a pagan “Santa” with horns, and building literal Home Alone-style defences because he thinks he's next.Then things get properly deranged: a naked, feral old man is caught in a wolf trap baited with a pig's head — and the locals start to suspect they've found Santa. Turns out they've found one of his helpers… and the rules are simple: no swearing, no aggression, no “bad behaviour”, because these elves replicate and escalate like gremlins with hypothermia. Suddenly it's old, nude men everywhere, and the film leans into it with alarming confidence.The finale goes full Goonies-in-a-blizzard: helicopters, a reindeer pen used as a trap, kids in sacks as bait, dynamite in the ice, and a plan so insane it only works because everyone is too cold to argue.And then the ending swerves again — from folk-horror survival to capitalism speedrun — as the village realises the “elves” are worth money, hoses them down, trains them up, and ships them around the world as mall Santas in crates like festive livestock. It's bizarre, dark, and very funny in a “wait… did they really just do that?” way.It's not cosy. It's not sweet. It is snowy, grim, inventive, and weirdly brilliant — with proper atmosphere, real faces, and a premise it commits to without winking at you.Strong recommend.You can now text us anonymously to leave feedback, suggest future content or simply hurl abuse at us. We'll read out any texts we receive on the show. Click here to try it out!We love to hear from our listeners! By which I mean we tolerate it. If it hasn't been completely destroyed yet you can usually find us on twitter @dads_film, on Facebook Bad Dads Film Review, on email at baddadsjsy@gmail.com or on our website baddadsfilm.com. Until next time, we remain... Bad Dads

Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and what really helps get you in the spirit? Holiday movies. We one up this by bringing you movies that are/were on Tubi. Ever want to see Santa as a cynical Boomer, a Goonies type Christmas, or an angel that almost breaks up a marriage? Tubi has it all. Enjoy. Like, follow, and subscribe. *Got a mic and a computer? We're looking for more guests in 2026. Should it be you? Hit us up.

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: Xochimilco's Heartfelt Exchange: A Christmas Tale of Generosity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2025-12-19-23-34-02-es Story Transcript:Es: El sol brillaba intensamente en el cielo de Xochimilco.En: The sun shone brightly in the sky of Xochimilco.Es: El verano en el hemisferio sur traía calor y alegría a las aguas del famoso mercado flotante.En: Summer in the southern hemisphere brought warmth and joy to the waters of the famous floating market.Es: Las chinampas, pequeñas islas artificiales cubiertas de vegetación, estaban adornadas con luces navideñas.En: The chinampas, small artificial islands covered in vegetation, were adorned with Christmas lights.Es: Las trajineras navegaban despacio, coloreando las aguas con sus tonos vibrantes.En: The trajineras sailed slowly, coloring the waters with their vibrant tones.Es: Santiago observaba desde la orilla, pensativo.En: Santiago watched from the shore, thoughtful.Es: La idea del intercambio de regalos secretos de Navidad le emocionaba, pero también le preocupaba.En: The idea of the secret Christmas gift exchange excited him, but also worried him.Es: No tenía mucho dinero este año.En: He didn't have much money this year.Es: Quería regalar algo especial.En: He wanted to give something special.Es: Algo que mostrara su gratitud hacia sus amigos.En: Something that showed his gratitude towards his friends.Es: Decidir el regalo perfecto se había convertido en su desafío.En: Deciding on the perfect gift had become his challenge.Es: Lucía, con su energía característica, organizaba el evento.En: Lucía, with her characteristic energy, was organizing the event.Es: "¡Santiago, ven!En: "Santiago, come!Es: ", exclamó, llamándolo desde una trajinera llena de flores.En: ", she exclaimed, calling him from a trajinera full of flowers.Es: "¡Mira todas estas cosas hermosas!En: "Look at all these beautiful things!Es: Seguro encuentras algo aquí."En: You're sure to find something here."Es: Santiago sonrió con inseguridad.En: Santiago smiled with uncertainty.Es: El mercado flotante era un caos encantador.En: The floating market was a charming chaos.Es: Había música de mariachis, el olor irresistible de tamales y antojitos, y colores por todos lados.En: There was mariachi music, the irresistible smell of tamales and antojitos, and colors everywhere.Es: Pero su mente seguía pensando en su dinero limitado.En: But his mind kept thinking about his limited money.Es: Decidió no contarle a Lucía sobre sus dificultades.En: He decided not to tell Lucía about his difficulties.Es: Quería resolverlo él mismo.En: He wanted to solve it himself.Es: Caminó entre los puestos, buscando con cuidado.En: He walked among the stalls, searching carefully.Es: Necesitaba algo especial, no caro, pero significativo.En: He needed something special, not expensive, but meaningful.Es: Mientras observaba una colección de artesanías, escuchó a Javier riendo cerca.En: While observing a collection of crafts, he heard Javier laughing nearby.Es: Javier era el alma de la fiesta, siempre de buen humor.En: Javier was the life of the party, always in a good mood.Es: Santiago se acercó para saludar.En: Santiago approached to greet him.Es: "Javier, ¿qué das este año?En: "Javier, what are you giving this year?"Es: ", preguntó Santiago, buscando ideas.En: asked Santiago, looking for ideas.Es: Javier, sonriente, mostró un pequeño pero hermoso alebrije que había comprado.En: Javier, smiling, showed a small but beautiful alebrije he had bought.Es: Era una pieza colorida, llena de detalles.En: It was a colorful piece, full of details.Es: Santiago sintió una punzada de deseo.En: Santiago felt a pang of desire.Es: Ese alebrije era precioso... justo lo que quería regalar.En: That alebrije was beautiful... just what he wanted to give.Es: Pero no tenía suficiente dinero para algo así.En: But he didn't have enough money for something like that.Es: Sin saberlo, Javier tenía el objeto de muchos de sus pensamientos.En: Unknowingly, Javier had the object of many of his thoughts.Es: Santiago dudó, pero algo en su interior le empujó a ser honesto.En: Santiago hesitated, but something inside him pushed him to be honest.Es: "Javier, ese alebrije es... perfecto.En: "Javier, that alebrije is... perfect.Es: Pero... mejor dejo de pensarlo", admitió con un suspiro.En: But...Es: Javier lo miró, sorprendido.En: I'd better stop thinking about it," he admitted with a sigh.Es: "¿Te gusta?En: Javier looked at him, surprised.Es: ", preguntó.En: "Do you like it?"Es: Santiago asintió, y sin darse cuenta, contó su situación.En: he asked.Es: La sonrisa de Javier se volvió más comprensiva.En: Santiago nodded, and without realizing it, shared his situation.Es: "Santiago, esto es para ti", dijo.En: Javier's smile became more understanding.Es: "No sabía, pero ahora sé que es el regalo perfecto en manos tuyas."En: "Santiago, this is for you," he said.Es: Santiago quedó boquiabierto.En: "I didn't know, but now I know it's the perfect gift in your hands."Es: "¿De verdad?En: Santiago was stunned.Es: ", preguntó, emocionado.En: "Really?"Es: "Claro, un regalo debe traer felicidad, ¿no?En: he asked, excited.Es: ", dijo Javier, dándole el alebrije.En: "Of course, a gift should bring happiness, right?"Es: Cuando llegó el día del intercambio, Santiago sintió una calidez en su corazón.En: said Javier, giving him the alebrije.Es: El alebrije fue recibido con sonrisas.En: When the exchange day arrived, Santiago felt warmth in his heart.Es: Todo gracias a Javier, que sin saberlo, había comprendido el verdadero espíritu de la Navidad.En: The alebrije was received with smiles, all thanks to Javier, who unknowingly had understood the true spirit of Christmas.Es: Al terminar la noche, Santiago había aprendido algo invaluable: no todo está en lo material.En: By the end of the night, Santiago had learned something invaluable: not everything is material.Es: A veces, lo más importante es abrir el corazón y pedir ayuda cuando es necesario.En: Sometimes, the most important thing is to open your heart and ask for help when necessary.Es: Y así, con un nuevo entendimiento, el mercado flotante de Xochimilco brilló más intensamente para él.En: And so, with a new understanding, the floating market of Xochimilco shone more brightly for him.Es: Un recuerdo que siempre guardaría con gratitud.En: A memory he would always keep with gratitude. Vocabulary Words:the sun: el solto shine: brillarthe southern hemisphere: el hemisferio surthe island: la islathe vegetation: la vegetaciónto adorn: adornarto sail: navegarthoughtful: pensativothe gratitude: la gratitudthe challenge: el desafíocharacteristic: característicathe uncertainty: la inseguridadthe stall: el puestocarefully: con cuidadothe crafts: las artesaníasto hesitate: dudarto admit: admitirthe understanding: la comprensiónto smile: sonreírthe mood: el humorthe desire: la punzada de deseoto approach: acercarseto greet: saludarthe detail: el detalleto stun: boquiabiertoto bring: traerthe warmth: la calidezto laugh: reírthe memory: el recuerdothe spirit: el espíritu

Hans is joined by Robert Greenway, military veteran and Director of the Allison Center for National Security at Heritage, to discuss the German siege of American forces in Bastogne, which occurred over Christmas in 1944 during the Battle of the Bulge.The Classic Movie Review is of "Battleground," the 1949 film about the battle, directed by veteran William Wellman, and the winner of multiple academy awards

I spoke with Dr. Vaughn Joy, author of a recent book on Christmas movies and politics. We spoke about Frank Capra, his celebration of America through film, and his ostracization as an alleged Communist, despite that. Selling Out Santa: Hollywood Christmas Films in the Age of McCarthy Music is by Evan Schaeffer. 

The New Capes & Lunatics Ep #62 (LGY #417): Batman Christmas Tales This episode your team of Phil, Lilith, Justin, and Kristen review two classic Batman stories from The Brave and the Bold #148 (March 1979) featuring a holiday team-up with Plastic Man and Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight #79 (January 1996) featuring Batman on the hunt for a stolen piece of his past.   Tune in today and don't forget to review the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and anywhere else you can!    Capes & Lunatics Links  → Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/capeslunatics.bsky.social → Twitter https://twitter.com/CapesLunatics → Instagram https://www.instagram.com/capeslunatics/ → Facebook https://www.facebook.com/capesandlunatics → YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/CapesandLunatics   ==================  

Ch-ch-ch chia.

Rebecca and Tori are joined by Debra to delve into Round 3 of the 2025 Scrooge-Off. This episode's contenders are the Patrick Stewart and George C. Scott. And, the winner is...MusicApache Rock Instrumental by Sound Atelier licensed through Jamendo Music.A Christmas Tale by Aleksey Voronin on PixabaySound EffectsRecord Scratch: Sound Effect free on Pixabay

Fluent Fiction - Spanish: From Vulnerability to Family: A Christmas Tale of Hope Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/es/episode/2025-12-18-08-38-20-es Story Transcript:Es: En un caluroso día de verano en Buenos Aires, el orfanato "La Casa del Sol" bullía de alegría.En: On a hot summer day in Buenos Aires, the orphanage "La Casa del Sol" buzzed with joy.Es: Era casi Navidad, y el aroma del pino llenaba el aire.En: It was almost Christmas, and the aroma of pine filled the air.Es: Los niños habían decorado la sala común con dibujos coloridos y luces brillantes.En: The children had decorated the common room with colorful drawings and bright lights.Es: Mateo, un niño de 12 años con ojos soñadores, se preparaba para un momento importante.En: Mateo, a 12-year-old boy with dreamy eyes, was preparing for an important moment.Es: Un matrimonio había llegado al orfanato para considerar una adopción.En: A couple had arrived at the orphanage to consider an adoption.Es: Mateo se encontraba nervioso.En: Mateo was nervous.Es: Había pasado horas preparando sus dibujos.En: He had spent hours preparing his drawings.Es: Su amigo, Sofía, de la misma edad, estaba a su lado, animándole.En: His friend, Sofía, of the same age, was by his side, encouraging him.Es: Sofía sabía cuánto deseaba Mateo impresionar a la pareja.En: Sofía knew how much Mateo wanted to impress the couple.Es: Él soñaba con que los adoptaran juntos, así podrían ser familia para siempre.En: He dreamed of them being adopted together, so they could be a family forever.Es: En el momento crucial, mientras los visitantes se acercaban a ver sus obras de arte, Mateo sintió una opresión en el pecho.En: At the crucial moment, as the visitors approached to see his artwork, Mateo felt a tightness in his chest.Es: La familiar sensación de un ataque de asma se acercaba.En: The familiar feeling of an asthma attack was coming.Es: Miró a su alrededor buscando su inhalador, pero no lo encontraba.En: He looked around for his inhaler, but couldn't find it.Es: El miedo lo invadió.En: Fear overcame him.Es: Si pedía ayuda, quizás perdería su oportunidad de mostrar sus dibujos.En: If he asked for help, he might lose his chance to show his drawings.Es: Pero su respiración era cada vez más difícil.En: But his breathing was becoming more difficult.Es: Mateo miró a Sofía, quien le devolvió una mirada preocupada.En: Mateo looked at Sofía, who returned a concerned look.Es: Sabía que tenía que tomar una decisión rápida.En: He knew he had to make a quick decision.Es: Finalmente, con un esfuerzo enorme, Mateo levantó la mano buscando a Carlos, el cuidador.En: Finally, with enormous effort, Mateo raised his hand seeking Carlos, the caretaker.Es: "¡Carlos, ayúdame!En: "Carlos, help me!"Es: ", logró decir, aunque las palabras casi no salían de sus labios.En: he managed to say, though the words barely left his lips.Es: Carlos corrió al lado de Mateo, ayudándole a calmarse y a usar el inhalador.En: Carlos rushed to Mateo's side, helping him to calm down and use the inhaler.Es: La pareja observó el incidente, con evidente preocupación en sus rostros.En: The couple watched the incident, with evident concern in their faces.Es: Una vez que Mateo recuperó el aliento, el hombre del matrimonio le sonrió suavemente.En: Once Mateo caught his breath, the man of the couple smiled softly at him.Es: "Eres un chico muy valiente", dijo.En: "You are a very brave boy," he said.Es: "Nos gusta mucho tu arte".En: "We really like your art."Es: La pareja pasó un tiempo con él y Sofía, interesándose genuinamente por sus historias y sueños.En: The couple spent some time with him and Sofía, genuinely interested in their stories and dreams.Es: Mateo, al principio tímido, les mostró los dibujos que tanto había trabajado.En: Mateo, initially shy, showed them the drawings he had worked so hard on.Es: Los dos adultos quedaron impresionados por su talento y creatividad.En: The two adults were impressed by his talent and creativity.Es: Al final del día, Carlos llamó a Sofía y a Mateo a su oficina.En: At the end of the day, Carlos called Sofía and Mateo to his office.Es: La pareja había tomado una decisión.En: The couple had made a decision.Es: Con una mirada llena de emoción, les anunciaron que querían adoptarlos a los dos.En: With a look full of emotion, they announced that they wanted to adopt both of them.Es: Mateo sintió una ola de alivio y alegría, inundándole el corazón.En: Mateo felt a wave of relief and joy flood his heart.Es: Había aprendido que a veces, pedir ayuda es la cosa más valiente que uno puede hacer.En: He had learned that sometimes, asking for help is the bravest thing one can do.Es: Juntos, Mateo y Sofía se abrazaron.En: Together, Mateo and Sofía hugged.Es: Ellos sabían que finalmente tendrían una familia.En: They knew they would finally have a family.Es: Y en ese momento, en medio del calor del verano y la magia de la Navidad, Mateo entendió que la verdadera fuerza está en aceptar la vulnerabilidad y abrirse al amor inesperado.En: And at that moment, in the midst of the summer heat and the magic of Christmas, Mateo understood that true strength lies in accepting vulnerability and opening up to unexpected love. Vocabulary Words:the orphanage: el orfanatothe aroma: el aromathe drawing: el dibujothe caretaker: el cuidadorthe asthma attack: el ataque de asmathe opportunity: la oportunidadthe fear: el miedothe effort: el esfuerzothe story: la historiathe vulnerability: la vulnerabilidadthe strength: la fuerzathe relief: el aliviothe talent: el talentothe creativity: la creatividadthe emotion: la emociónthe incident: el incidentethe tightness: la opresiónthe inhaler: el inhaladorthe dream: el sueñothe couple: la parejathe common room: la sala comúnthe moment: el momentothe wave: la olato calm down: calmarseto hug: abrazarto impress: impresionarto flood: inundarto approach: acercarseto overcome: superarthe Christmas: la Navidad

The real Santa was totally different. The Coca-Cola Santa is just a hoax. 

Where has Santa Claus gone?Once upon a time there was Santa Claus's Village — but Santa Claus wasn't there. He had been missing for days and days… actually for months. Who would prepare and deliver gifts to the children as they did every year?That part of the North Pole which was usually very busy had become strangely silent — not an Elf could be seen around, no sounds of bells, the sleighs were covered in snow and all the reindeer dozed about confused.If you looked into his house you couldn't see a trace of life. The fireplace cold, the rocking chair covered in cobwebs, an empty cup on the wooden table and a candle stub burnt out long ago.Many were the rumours that had spread about Santa Claus's absence. Some said he was on another planet in a far, far away galaxy, some on the Moon, some on the vast oceans — and someone even said he had opened a bakery in Buenos Aires.The mystery was thick. Nobody could make sense of it and everything was silent and still.Meanwhile, many miles away, in the Southern Seas, a group of seagulls who spent their days fluttering above the bay spotted a small sailing boat in the distance. There was only one sailor on board who was hoisting the main sail up the creaking mast.The eldest seagull couldn't believe his eyes. He did a couple of acrobatics in the air, pulled out his spyglass, looked more carefully and said: "But I know him! That sailor comes from distant lands!"Turning to the other seagulls he told them: "One day, during one of my long journeys, I lost my way and found myself on the frozen rooftops of a village at the North Pole. I landed right on the house of that long-bearded man you see on the boat. He heard me calling for help, came to fetch me, fed me and told me about his work. I think this meeting has something magical about it. Our next adventure is about to begin."Gliding down, they headed towards the boat and all landed on the bow. The seagull and the sailor greeted each other like old friends.Shortly after, a group of dolphins arrived near the sailing boat, curious. They swam in circles around the boat, jumping out of the water.The youngest dolphin noticed something strange. "Look! Wood shavings are coming out of the hold and floating! And you can see little lights below deck."The long-bearded sailor smiled. "Come," he said in a warm voice, "I'll show you what I've done all these months."He opened the hatch to the hold and inside, by the light of two swaying lanterns, you could see a floating workshop full of wonders. With a sharp plane he had worked pieces of wood recovered from the sea, transforming them into toys — and he had done the same with shells, coconuts, cork stoppers, glass bottles, starfish and golden threads that had arrived from who knows where."I travelled to learn new ways of bringing joy," the sailor explained. "But there's so much work to do and Christmas is coming. Would you help me finish?"And so they all set to work together. The dolphins brought special shells from the bottom of the sea. The seagulls gathered coloured feathers. The objects transformed into gifts were placed in large canvas sacks.The days passed quickly.On the first of December the captain, wearing his red warm hat with his pipe in his mouth, looked at the starry sky and said: "It's time to leave."The dolphins lifted the sailing boat until it rose above the waves. The sails filled with wind and it took flight, whilst the flock of seagulls guided it through the clouds following dreams. Together they continued the journey heading north, flying through the endless blue.Night fell quickly and in the sky full of stars one shone brighter than all the others. It was the North Star which with its light accompanied the sailing boat's descent to earth.By magic, as it approached the village, the sailing boat transformed into a sleigh loaded with gifts. The presents built in the hold arrived in the workshop to be delivered together with all the other parcels.When it landed on the roof of his house, a tinkling of bells was heard in the distance. The Elves looked out of their doors and shouted: "It's him! It's him! It's Santa Claus! He's back!"The red-nosed reindeer woke up suddenly and began polishing the sleighs, decorating them with bows and coloured pine cones.Life in the village awakened all at once. The tree branches shook as if they were being tickled. A group of penguins, who had arrived at the North Pole to lend a hand, sliding on the ice sheets at great speed, ended up inside snowdrifts and came out like bouncing balls.“You are so funny! We'll hang you on the Christmas tree as decorations!" the village animals shouted.But the penguins, freeing themselves from the snow, ran towards Santa Claus's house to help with the preparations.In the village absolutely everyone got moving. The reindeer rushed to the Post Office and filled the sacks with letters, then carried them to the workshop. The Elves with the help of the penguins were ready for work.That morning, when the bells rang out in celebration, foxes, squirrels, hares and bears came running from every corner of the forest to celebrate Santa Claus's return. There was so much to do for the joy of all the children in the world.The air smelt of fir trees and homemade biscuits. The Christmas trees sparkled with icicles like stars. The animals chased each other happily with their noses turned upwards.The preparations began in earnest. Throughout the month of December they worked together — saws that sang, hammers that played, coloured paper that flew. Santa Claus told stories of his journey whilst he hammered and sanded.And when the 24th of December arrived, everything was ready. The presents were loaded onto the sleigh and Santa Claus set off on his most important journey.The seagulls flew away towards new horizons, leaving their footprints on the snowy rooftops.Since that Christmas it is said that Santa Claus never left the North Pole again."What if it was only a tale? Is it true, or not? The final decision is yours!" — Written by Lucia & Marco CiappelliFor the Italian version and many more stories to read and listen to: https://www.storiesottolestelle.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Love Amongst the Turrets: A Budapest Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2025-12-17-23-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: A hó puha fehér takaróként borította be Budapest utcáit.En: The snow covered the streets of Budapest like a soft white blanket.Hu: A Halászbástya tetején, ahol a leghidegebb szél is csak gyengéden simogatta az arcot, Judit és László álltak egymás mellett.En: At the top of the Halászbástya, where even the coldest wind only gently caressed the face, Judit and László stood next to each other.Hu: Az egész osztály karácsonyi kiránduláson vett részt, de László gondolatai máshol jártak.En: The whole class was on a Christmas outing, but László's thoughts were elsewhere.Hu: Egész nap azon töprengett, mikor lesz a legalkalmasabb pillanat, hogy átadja ajándékát Juditnak.En: All day, he pondered when the most suitable moment would be to give his gift to Judit.Hu: Egy fényképet hozott magával, amit róluk készített a múlt tavasszal.En: He had brought a photo he had taken of them last spring.Hu: Az iskolai kirándulás alatt, egy napsütéses napon, amikor Judit nevetett, és szeme ragyogott, mintha a napfény tükröződne benne.En: During the school trip, on a sunny day when Judit was laughing, and her eyes were shining as if the sunlight was reflected in them.Hu: A kép hátuljára egy levelet írta, amelyben leírta érzéseit.En: On the back of the photo, he had written a letter expressing his feelings.Hu: Judit nevetett, beszélgetett a barátaival, és közben Lászlóra is mosolygott.En: Judit laughed, talked with her friends, and also smiled at László.Hu: A fiú szíve gyorsabban vert, amikor elhatározta, hogy most vagy soha.En: The boy's heart beat faster as he decided it was now or never.Hu: Összeszedte minden bátorságát, és megszólította Juditot.En: He gathered all his courage and addressed Judit.Hu: - Judit, van egy kis ajándékom számodra - mondta László, s a szíve a torkában dobogott.En: "Judit, I have a little gift for you," said László, his heart pounding in his throat.Hu: Judit csodálkozva nézett rá, aztán elvette a fényképet a fiú kezéből.En: Judit looked at him in surprise, then took the photo from his hand.Hu: Lassan megfordította, hogy elolvassa a hátsó üzenetet.En: She slowly turned it over to read the message on the back.Hu: A hideg levegő ellenére László érezte, hogy az arca forró.En: Despite the cold air, László felt his face grow hot.Hu: Judit néhány pillanatig csendben maradt, majd felemelte a tekintetét Lászlóra.En: Judit remained silent for a few moments, then lifted her gaze to László.Hu: - Ez gyönyörű, László - mondta kedvesen, egy meleg mosollyal az arcán.En: "This is beautiful, László," she said kindly, with a warm smile on her face.Hu: - Mindig is reméltem, hogy hallok tőled ilyesmit.En: "I've always hoped to hear something like this from you.Hu: Én is kedvellek.En: I like you too."Hu: László megkönnyebbülten sóhajtott.En: László sighed in relief.Hu: Olyan érzés volt, mintha egy hatalmas súlyt vettek volna le a válláról.En: It felt as if a massive weight had been lifted from his shoulders.Hu: A szívében melegség áradt szét.En: Warmth spread through his heart.Hu: Aznap, a Halászbástya csúcsán, László ráébredt, hogy megérte szembenéznie a félelmeivel.En: That day, at the peak of the Halászbástya, László realized it was worth facing his fears.Hu: A kilátás a városra lenyűgöző volt, de számára Judit mosolya mindennél szebb volt.En: The view of the city was stunning, but for him, Judit's smile was more beautiful than anything.Hu: Most már tudta, hogy az új év nemcsak egy új kezdetet hoz majd, de egy új kapcsolatot is, amit közösen építhetnek tovább.En: Now he knew that the new year would not only bring a new beginning but also a new relationship that they could build on together.Hu: A város alattuk nyugodt, ünnepi csendben pihent, ahogyan ők ketten ott álltak, s egymásra mosolyogtak a havas táj fölött.En: The city beneath them rested in a calm, festive silence, as the two of them stood there, smiling at each other over the snowy landscape. Vocabulary Words:snow: hóblanket: takarócaressed: simogattaouting: kiránduláselsewhere: másholpondered: töprengettsuitable: alkalmasmoment: pillanatgift: ajándékshining: ragyogottgaze: tekintetrelief: megkönnyebbülésmassive: hatalmasshoulders: vállworth: megértestunning: lenyűgözőfears: félelmekrealized: ráébredtbeneath: alattcalm: nyugodtfestive: ünnepilandscape: tájsigh: sóhajttogether: közösenbuild: építhetnikoccupied: résztsigh: forróturned: megfordítottaface: archope: reméltem

Hello and welcome back! I'm so glad you're here. Tonight's bedtime story is a gentle Christmas tale called Jimmy Scarecrow's Christmas by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman. It's the sweet story of a lonely scarecrow who discovers unexpected kindness on a quiet winter's night, bringing a simple but touching bit of magic to his Christmas.So take a moment now to get cozy and when you're ready, let's drift into this heartwarming Christmas story together.Sweet dreams!Music in this episode is 'A Slow Drift' by Hanna Lindgren via Epidemic SoundMy new audiobook Tales to Help You Sleep is now available on Audible! US  ➜ Click hereCA  ➜ Click hereUK  ➜ Click hereAU  ➜ Click hereAlready an Audible member? Just add it to your library.New to Audible? Start your free trial with my book as your first listen and help support the podcast!If you decide to purchase through this link, I do receive a small benefit at no extra cost to you. It truly helps me continue sharing these bedtime stories, and I'm so grateful for your support. My Drift Off Dreams Coloring Book is now available on Amazon!  With 33 soothing illustrations, it's a cozy way to find calm at the end of the day. Find your copy here: https://mybook.to/DriftOffDreamsDrift Off Premium — Sweet Dreams Await Support an ad-free podcast for everyone Weekly bonus bedtime stories to enrich your sleep routine Exclusive early access to one new episode each month Full-length audiobooks for sleep to calm your mind and help you drift off Available on Apple Podcasts and Supercast *Subscribe on Apple Podcasts from the show page, or visit driftoff.supercast.com to join through Supercast. Did you know you can also listen to my regular bedtime stories on Insight Timer for free? It's a peaceful space for rest and relaxation. Also, for just $9.99/month, you'll get access to my premium stories plus meditations, music, and live sessions from other amazing teachers. Come curl up in this cozy corner of calm, where sweet dreams are always waiting. https://insighttimer.com/relaxforawhile Oh… and be sure to drift over to the podcast website to see what cozy wonders await you! https://www.driftoffpodcast.com

A little girl brings great joy to a pair of unexpected listeners. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textThe third part of our HUGmas season of alternative Christmas movie podcasts is here, and this week, Liam and Rob are looking back at 2010's uniquely Finnish take on the Santa Clause legend, Jalmari Helander's, Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale. Is this a modern Christmas classic, or should this comedic action horror movie be ignored for more traditional fare? Listen in via the link in the bio to find out. 

Fluent Fiction - Danish: Flickering Lights to Futures: A Startup Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2025-12-16-23-34-02-da Story Transcript:Da: Inde i det travle rum i Københavns startup inkubator hang julelysene i loftet og klingede blidt mod hinanden.En: Inside the busy room of Københavns startup incubator, Christmas lights hung from the ceiling and gently clinked against each other.Da: Rummet var fyldt med ivrige iværksættere, der alle drømte om at blive den næste store succes i tech-branchen.En: The room was filled with eager entrepreneurs, all dreaming of becoming the next big success in the tech industry.Da: Silja stod nær et lille bord, hendes app på skærmen foran hende.En: Silja stood near a small table, her app displayed on the screen in front of her.Da: Hun tog en dyb indånding og rettede skuldrene.En: She took a deep breath and straightened her shoulders.Da: Det var en vigtig dag.En: It was an important day.Da: Silja var ambitiøs.En: Silja was ambitious.Da: Hun drømte om at lancere sin app, som skulle forbinde lokale kunstnere med købere.En: She dreamed of launching her app, which aimed to connect local artists with buyers.Da: Hendes søster, Maja, havde besluttet sig for at tage med som støtte.En: Her sister, Maja, had decided to come along for support.Da: Maja, selv om hun var skeptisk, var der for Silja.En: Maja, although skeptical, was there for Silja.Da: “Jeg tror på dig, Silja,” sagde Maja blidt, mens hun holdt en kop varm gløgg.En: “I believe in you, Silja,” Maja said gently, while holding a cup of warm gløgg.Da: Et par meter derfra stod Erik med en tablet i hænderne.En: A few meters away stood Erik with a tablet in hand.Da: Han var en dygtig softwareudvikler, men skeptisk over for nye projekter, da han tidligere havde oplevet nogle fiaskoer.En: He was a skilled software developer but skeptical about new projects after experiencing some failures in the past.Da: Men der var alligevel noget ved arrangementet, der tiltalte ham.En: However, there was something appealing about the event.Da: Han lyttede til de forskellige pitches, mens han spekulerede på potentielle samarbejder.En: He listened to various pitches, pondering potential collaborations.Da: Da Erik nåede Siljas stand, fangede noget hendes opmærksomhed ved hans rolige og analytiske væsen.En: When Erik reached Silja's booth, something about his calm and analytical demeanor caught her attention.Da: Hun tog chancen.En: She seized the opportunity.Da: “Hej, jeg er Silja,” sagde hun og gav ham hånden.En: “Hi, I'm Silja,” she said, extending her hand to him.Da: “Jeg tror måske, du vil kunne lide min app.” Erik lyttede opmærksomt, mens Silja passioneret forklarede sin vision.En: “I think you might like my app.” Erik listened attentively as Silja passionately explained her vision.Da: Han kunne lide hendes entusiasme og den klare idé.En: He liked her enthusiasm and clear idea.Da: Men han tøvede stadig lidt.En: But he still hesitated a little.Da: Silja svarede ivrigt på hans spørgsmål, men hun mærkede frustrationen vokse.En: Silja eagerly answered his questions, but she could feel frustration growing.Da: De andre startups var stærke konkurrenter.En: The other startups were strong competitors.Da: Midt i deres diskussion blinkede lysene et par gange og gik derefter ud.En: In the middle of their discussion, the lights flickered a few times and then went out.Da: Pludselig stod de i halvmørke, kun oplyst af de julelys, der stadig glødede.En: Suddenly, they were in semi-darkness, only illuminated by the Christmas lights that still glowed.Da: “Det her komplicerer det,” sagde Silja med et grin, mens hun fiskede en kuglepen og et papir op fra tasken.En: “This complicates things,” Silja said with a laugh, fishing out a pen and paper from her bag.Da: “Lad os gøre det på gammeldags måde.” Under de glødende lys begyndte Erik og Silja at skitsere idéer.En: “Let's do this the old-fashioned way.” Under the glowing lights, Erik and Silja began sketching ideas.Da: Måske var det juleånden, men Erik begyndte at føle en ny optimisme vokse i sig.En: Perhaps it was the Christmas spirit, but Erik began to feel a new optimism growing within him.Da: “Du har virkelig noget her,” sagde han og smilede til Silja.En: “You really have something here,” he said, smiling at Silja.Da: Pludselig var strømmen tilbage.En: Suddenly, the power returned.Da: Skærmen foran dem blev lys igen, og deres noteside var en rodebunke af idéer.En: The screen in front of them lit up again, and their notes were a jumble of ideas.Da: Men de havde nået et gennembrud.En: But they had reached a breakthrough.Da: Silja strålede.En: Silja beamed.Da: “Vi gjorde det!” udbrød hun.En: “We did it!” she exclaimed.Da: Erik nikkede, lettere overrasket over at finde sig selv så begejstret for et nyt projekt.En: Erik nodded, somewhat surprised to find himself so excited about a new project.Da: "Vi skal fejre det her," foreslog han.En: "We should celebrate this," he proposed.Da: “Lad os tage en festlig middag.” Sammen gik de ud i den kolde, vinterbeklædte aften i København, med Maja ved deres side.En: “Let's have a festive dinner.” Together, they stepped out into the cold, winter-clad night in København, with Maja by their side.Da: Silja havde lært at lade andre hjælpe og stole på dem omkring hende.En: Silja had learned to let others help and trust those around her.Da: Erik havde fundet ny tro på nye muligheder.En: Erik had found new faith in new opportunities.Da: Snart sad de på en hyggelig restaurant, og med varme retter foran sig og smilene lysende, fejrede de begyndelsen på deres partnerskab og opdagelsen af tillid.En: Soon they were sitting in a cozy restaurant, with warm dishes in front of them and smiles shining, celebrating the beginning of their partnership and the discovery of trust.Da: Julelysene omkring dem spejlede en ny begyndelse og nærhed.En: The Christmas lights around them reflected a new beginning and closeness. Vocabulary Words:incubator: inkubatorceiling: loftetentrepreneur: iværksætterambitious: ambitiøsskeptical: skeptiskdeveloper: softwareudviklerfailures: fiaskoerdemeanor: væsenenthusiasm: entusiasmefrustration: frustrationsemi-darkness: halvmørkeilluminated: oplystflickered: blinkedebreakthrough: gennembrudexclaimed: udbrødopportunity: mulighedcelebrate: fejrepartnership: partnerskabtrust: tillidcloseness: nærhedgløgg: gløggarrangement: arrangementetcollaborations: samarbejderanalytical: analytiskpitch: pitchpotential: potentiellecompetitors: konkurrentercomplicates: komplicerersketching: skitsereoptimism: optimisme

Episode 2 of 12 in the “Twelve Nightmares of Christmas” series!In this episode: “The USS Constellation”, “Lord Combermere Returns”, “The Brown Lady of Raynham Hall”, “The Ghost of Anne Boleyn”, “The Eilean Mor Lighthouse”, “The Mystery of the Mary Celeste”, “The Palatine Light”SOURCES AND ESSENTIAL WEB LINKS…All stories in this episode are from the book, “The Spirits of Christmas: The Dark Side of the Holidays” by Sylvia Shults:https://amzn.to/3uT2vMAJoin the Weird Darkness Syndicate: https://weirddarkness.com/syndicateMusic by Midnight Syndicate: http://amzn.to/2BYCoXZ= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =(Over time links seen above may become invalid, disappear, or have different content. I always make sure to give authors credit for the material I use whenever possible. If I somehow overlooked doing so for a story, or if a credit is incorrect, please let me know and I will rectify it in these show notes immediately. Some links included above may benefit me financially through qualifying purchases.)= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = ="I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." — John 12:46= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =https://weirddarkness.com/BrownLadyWeirdDarkness® is a registered trademark. Copyright ©2024, Weird Darkness.

Fluent Fiction - Korean: Snow-Kissed Confessions: A Christmas Tale on Namiseom Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ko/episode/2025-12-15-23-34-02-ko Story Transcript:Ko: 첫눈이 내린 날, 진수는 남이섬으로 가는 배에 몸을 실었다.En: On the day the first snow fell, Jinsu boarded the boat heading to Namiseom.Ko: 하얗게 덮인 섬은 크리스마스 불빛으로 가득했고, 친구들 간의 웃음소리가 따뜻한 겨울 공기를 데우고 있었다.En: The island, blanketed in white, was aglow with Christmas lights, and the laughter among friends warmed the chilly winter air.Ko: 진수는 잠시 눈을 감고 깊은 숨을 들이마셨다.En: Jinsu closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath.Ko: 오늘이 특별한 하루가 되길 바랐다.En: He hoped today would be a special day.Ko: 남이섬에 도착하자, 민아와 현은 이미 기다리고 있었다.En: Upon arriving at Namiseom, Mina and Hyun were already waiting.Ko: "진수야, 여기야!" 현이 손을 흔들었다.En: "Jinsu, over here!" Hyun waved.Ko: 진수는 미소를 지으며 그들에게 다가갔다.En: Jinsu smiled as he approached them.Ko: 섬 구석구석을 둘러보며 셋은 즐거운 시간을 보냈다.En: As they explored every corner of the island, the three of them had a fun time.Ko: 눈 덮인 나무 사이를 지나며 산책하고, 따뜻한 코코아를 나누어 마셨다.En: They walked between the snow-covered trees and shared warm cocoa.Ko: 그러나 진수의 마음속에는 여전히 걱정이 가득했다.En: However, Jinsu's heart was still filled with worries.Ko: 그는 친구들과 멀어진 느낌이 들었고, 민아에게 자신의 마음을 어떻게 전할지 고민 중이었다.En: He felt a sense of distance from his friends, and he was contemplating how to express his feelings to Mina.Ko: 점심시간이 되자, 그들은 눈 위에 담요를 깔고 앉았다.En: By lunchtime, they spread a blanket over the snow and sat down.Ko: 진수는 큰 결심을 했다.En: Jinsu made a big decision.Ko: 주머니 속에 손을 넣어 작은 상자를 꺼냈다.En: He reached into his pocket and took out a small box.Ko: "민아야," 진수가 조심스럽게 말했다.En: "Mina," Jinsu said carefully.Ko: 민아는 놀란 듯 눈을 크게 떴다.En: Mina opened her eyes wide in surprise.Ko: "이거 네게 주고 싶어. 크리스마스 선물이야."En: "I want to give this to you. It's a Christmas present."Ko: 상자를 열자 안에는 반짝이는 팔찌가 있었다.En: When he opened the box, inside was a sparkling bracelet.Ko: "사실... 너를 좋아해. 정말 많이," 진수는 힘겹게 말을 이어갔다.En: "Actually... I like you. A lot," Jinsu continued with effort.Ko: 민아의 얼굴에는 부드러운 미소가 어렸다.En: A gentle smile appeared on Mina's face.Ko: "진수야, 나도 너 좋아해," 민아는 진솔한 목소리로 대답했다.En: "Jinsu, I like you too," Mina replied in a sincere voice.Ko: 진수는 마음이 편안해졌다.En: Jinsu felt at ease.Ko: 그동안의 걱정이 눈 녹듯 사라졌다.En: His previous worries melted away like the snow.Ko: 현은 기뻐하며 두 사람을 축하했다.En: Hyun joyfully congratulated the two.Ko: "이거야말로 최고의 크리스마스 선물이네!" 현은 크게 웃으며 말했다.En: "This really is the best Christmas gift!" Hyun said with a big laugh.Ko: 진수는 속으로 친구들의 진심을 느꼈다.En: Jinsu felt the sincerity of his friends deep inside.Ko: 눈이 여전히 포근히 내리며 섬을 감싸고 있었다.En: The snow continued to fall softly, wrapping around the island.Ko: 진수는 다시 한 번 깊이 숨을 들이마셨다.En: Jinsu took another deep breath.Ko: 이제 그는 확신했다.En: Now he was certain.Ko: 그의 친구들은 그를 소중히 여겼고, 그 자신도 친구들에게 솔직해질 수 있었다.En: His friends valued him, and he could be honest with them as well.Ko: 그 날, 남이섬은 추운 겨울에도 불구하고 그 어느 때보다 따뜻하게 느껴졌다.En: That day, Namiseom felt warmer than ever, despite the cold winter.Ko: 진수는 웃으며 말했다. "고마워, 친구들아. 다 널리 더 친해진 것 같아."En: Jinsu smiled and said, "Thank you, friends. I feel like we've grown even closer."Ko: 그의 마음은 한결 가벼워졌고, 그는 친구들과 함께 하는 순간들이 최고의 선물이라는 것을 깨달았다.En: His heart felt much lighter, and he realized that moments spent with friends were the greatest gift.Ko: 각자의 마음속에 따뜻함을 간직한 채, 그들은 크리스마스 행사를 더욱 즐겼다.En: Holding warmth in each of their hearts, they enjoyed the Christmas event even more.Ko: 낭만적인 겨울의 남이섬은 그들의 우정에 새롭고 빛나는 추억을 더했다.En: The romantic winter of Namiseom added new, shining memories to their friendship. Vocabulary Words:boarded: 탔다blanketed: 덮인aglow: 가득했고chilly: 춥다explored: 둘러보며cocoa: 코코아contemplating: 고민 중이다spread: 깔다bracelet: 팔찌sparkling: 반짝이는sincere: 진솔한congratulated: 축하했다sincerity: 진심wrapping: 감싸고certain: 확신valued: 소중히 여겼다honest: 솔직해질friendship: 우정romantic: 낭만적인shining: 빛나는memories: 추억laughter: 웃음소리decision: 결심effort: 힘겹게gentle: 부드러운previous: 그동안의softly: 포근히realized: 깨달았다held: 간직한event: 행사

Fluent Fiction - Dutch: Silent Night, Unspoken Struggles: A Family's Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/nl/episode/2025-12-13-08-38-20-nl Story Transcript:Nl: De sneeuw viel zachtjes op de daken van het kleine, rustige suburbane dorpje in Nederland.En: The snow gently fell on the roofs of the small, quiet suburban village in Nederland.Nl: In de woonkamer van het huis van de familie Jansen hing een geur van versgebakken kerstkoekjes en de getrouwe geur van de kerstboom.En: In the living room of the Jansen family's house, there was a scent of freshly baked Christmas cookies and the familiar smell of the Christmas tree.Nl: Het klonk gezellig, maar de spanning was te snijden.En: It sounded cozy, but the tension was palpable.Nl: Bram zat op de bank in het midden van de kamer.En: Bram sat on the couch in the middle of the room.Nl: Hij keek om zich heen.En: He looked around.Nl: De muren hingen vol met oude familiefoto's en in een hoekje speelde een stereo zachtjes kerstliederen.En: The walls were covered with old family photos, and in a corner, a stereo softly played Christmas carols.Nl: Zijn zus Tess liep druk heen en weer.En: His sister Tess was busily moving back and forth.Nl: Ze probeerde de tafel te dekken met de rode en gouden servetten die ze ieder jaar gebruikten.En: She was trying to set the table with the red and gold napkins they used every year.Nl: Ze maakte zich zorgen om Bram.En: She was worried about Bram.Nl: Ze wist dat het moeilijk voor hem zou zijn om hier te zijn.En: She knew it would be difficult for him to be here.Nl: Ingrid, hun moeder, zat in de stoel bij het raam.En: Ingrid, their mother, sat in the chair by the window.Nl: Ze keek uit naar buiten, alsof ze in gedachten verzonken was.En: She looked outside as if she was lost in thought.Nl: Maar niets ontging haar.En: But nothing escaped her notice.Nl: Ze hield er de schijn van een perfecte kerstbijeenkomst in de lucht.En: She maintained the appearance of a perfect Christmas gathering.Nl: Haar gezicht straalde vriendelijkheid uit, maar Bram wist dat haar blik scherp kon zijn.En: Her face radiated kindness, but Bram knew that her gaze could be sharp.Nl: De avond viel en uiteindelijk kwam ook Hans binnen, Brams vader.En: Evening fell, and eventually, Hans, Bram's father, came in.Nl: Hij hoopte het diner snel en zonder drama door te komen.En: He hoped to get through dinner quickly and without drama.Nl: Het gesprek verliep stroef.En: The conversation was awkward.Nl: Er was altijd wel een laag ijs tussen hen dat niemand durfde te breken.En: There was always a layer of ice between them that no one dared to break.Nl: Hans maakte, tussen twee happen door, een opmerking over Brams werk.En: Hans, between two bites, made a comment about Bram's work.Nl: “En hoe gaat het nou met jou, Bram?En: “And how is it going with you, Bram?Nl: Nog steeds niks gevonden, neem ik aan?” De opmerking leek onschuldig, maar voor Bram was het als een dolk.En: Still haven't found anything, I assume?” The remark seemed innocent, but to Bram, it was like a dagger.Nl: Zijn woede borrelde op, maar hij slikte het weg en keek richting Tess.En: His anger bubbled up, but he swallowed it and looked towards Tess.Nl: Toch kon hij het niet onderdrukken.En: Yet, he couldn't suppress it.Nl: “Altijd diezelfde vraag, hè pap?” Bram's stem trilde een beetje.En: “Always that same question, huh, dad?” Bram's voice trembled slightly.Nl: “Bestaat er iets waarvan jij blij wordt, of is het altijd kritiek?” Ingrid schoof nerveus heen en weer in haar stoel.En: “Is there anything that makes you happy, or is it always criticism?” Ingrid shifted nervously in her chair.Nl: “Jongens, het is kerst.En: “Boys, it's Christmas.Nl: Laten we het gezellig houden.” Maar de vulkaan was al uitgebarsten.En: Let's keep it pleasant.” But the volcano had already erupted.Nl: Hans rechtte zijn rug.En: Hans straightened his back.Nl: “Als je gewoon je best had gedaan, hoefde dit gesprek niet steeds terug te komen.” “Je geeft me nooit een kans!” riep Bram.En: “If you had just done your best, this conversation wouldn't always have to come up.” “You never give me a chance!” Bram shouted.Nl: “Je kijkt altijd alleen naar wat ik niet goed doe!” De kamer vulde zich met een pijnlijke stilte.En: “You always look only at what I do wrong!” The room filled with a painful silence.Nl: Tess liet de lepels die ze vasthield, vallen.En: Tess dropped the spoons she was holding.Nl: Ze stond in de deuropening, tranen in haar ogen.En: She stood in the doorway, tears in her eyes.Nl: “Stop het!En: “Stop it!Nl: Alsjeblieft… kunnen we niet gewoon één dag doen alsof?” Bram zuchtte diep en zijn blik ontmoette die van Tess.En: Please… can't we just pretend for one day?” Bram took a deep breath and his eyes met Tess's.Nl: Hij voelde zich ellendig.En: He felt miserable.Nl: Hij wilde haar beschermen, niet meer pijn doen.En: He wanted to protect her, not cause more pain.Nl: In de gespannen stilte stond hij op en liep naar buiten, de koude winterlucht in.En: In the tense silence, he stood up and walked outside into the cold winter air.Nl: Even later hoorde hij voetstappen achter zich.En: A moment later, he heard footsteps behind him.Nl: Tess kwam naast hem lopen.En: Tess came to walk beside him.Nl: Samen liepen ze een stukje, hun adem vormde wolkjes in de lucht.En: Together, they walked a bit, their breath forming clouds in the air.Nl: “Het spijt me, Tess,” zei Bram langzaam.En: “I'm sorry, Tess,” Bram said slowly.Nl: Ze glimlachte zwakjes naar hem.En: She gave him a weak smile.Nl: “Je hoeft je niet te verontschuldigen.En: “You don't need to apologize.Nl: We weten hoe het is.En: We know how it is.Nl: Maar laten we proberen er iets van te maken, oké?” Bram keek naar de sterren.En: But let's try to make something of it, okay?” Bram looked at the stars.Nl: “Ja, voor jou.En: “Yes, for you.Nl: We zullen er iets van maken.” In de koude nacht vond hij een moment van vrede.En: We'll make something of it.” In the cold night, he found a moment of peace.Nl: Hij besefte dat hij zijn familie misschien niet kon veranderen, maar wel zijn houding tegenover hen.En: He realized that he might not be able to change his family, but he could change his attitude towards them.Nl: En dat was misschien genoeg voor nu.En: And that might be enough for now. Vocabulary Words:suburban: suburbanetension: spanningpalpable: te snijdenstereo: stereonervously: nerveusawkward: stroefcriticism: kritiekinhale: inademengaze: blikdare: durvenremark: opmerkingdagger: dolksuppress: onderdrukkenstraightened: rechteshouted: riepswallowed: slikteerupted: uitgebarstenpretend: doen alsofclouds: wolkjesapologize: verontschuldigenbreath: ademmiserable: ellendigrealized: beseftechange: veranderenattitude: houdinglayer: laagcomment: opmerkinginnocent: onschuldigmaintain: houdensharp: scherp

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Fated Under Festive Lights: A Christmas Tale Begins Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-12-13-23-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El Nadal ja havia arribat a la casa dels Garcia, una casa vella però acollidora situada al centre de Barcelona.En: Christmas had already arrived at the Garcia house, an old but cozy home located in the center of Barcelona.Ca: A la sala d'estar, l'aroma de l'arbre de Nadal s'entrellaçava amb l'olor del sopar: un banquet tradicional de canelons, torrons i cava.En: In the living room, the scent of the Christmas tree intertwined with the aroma of dinner: a traditional feast of cannelloni, nougat, and cava.Ca: Marc estava assegut al costat del seu germà gran mentre la seva mare li feia les preguntes habituals.En: Marc was seated next to his older brother while his mother asked him the usual questions.Ca: "Quan et casaràs, Marc? Tots els teus amics ja tenen família."En: "When will you get married, Marc? All your friends already have families."Ca: Ell somreia, amagant la seva frustració.En: He smiled, hiding his frustration.Ca: El seu somni de ser escriptor semblava cada cop més llunyà.En: His dream of becoming a writer seemed increasingly distant.Ca: D'altra banda, Clara observava la reunió des de la distància.En: On the other hand, Clara watched the gathering from a distance.Ca: Se sentia com una actriu en una obra d'un altre autor.En: She felt like an actress in a play written by someone else.Ca: Era amiga d'una cosina de Marc i estava allà com a “plus one”.En: She was a friend of one of Marc's cousins and was there as a “plus one.”Ca: Clara havia tingut un any complicat.En: Clara had had a complicated year.Ca: La seva pintura, que abans li donava tanta vida, ara semblava un enigma irresoluble.En: Her painting, which once gave her so much life, now seemed like an unsolvable enigma.Ca: Amb un fals intent de buscar aire fresc, Marc es va aixecar i va sortir al jardí.En: With a feigned attempt to get some fresh air, Marc stood up and went out to the garden.Ca: La neu cobria el terra i les llums nadalences brillaven entre la foscor.En: The snow covered the ground, and the Christmas lights shone amidst the darkness.Ca: Clara, buscant un moment de tranquil·litat, el va seguir.En: Clara, seeking a moment of tranquility, followed him.Ca: "Hola," va dir ella tímidament, notant com el fum del seu alè es barrejava amb l'aire fred.En: "Hello," she said shyly, noticing how the mist from her breath blended with the cold air.Ca: "Hola," va respondre Marc amb una tímida rialla.En: "Hello," Marc replied with a timid laugh.Ca: "No esperava trobar ningú aquí fora."En: "I wasn't expecting to find anyone out here."Ca: Van començar a parlar sobre el sopar, les expectatives familiars i la màgia del Nadal que de vegades es perd sota les pressions quotidianes.En: They started talking about dinner, family expectations, and the magic of Christmas that sometimes gets lost under daily pressures.Ca: Poc a poc, la conversa va derivar cap a l'art.En: Gradually, the conversation drifted towards art.Ca: "A mi m'agrada escriure, però mai no he tingut el coratge de compartir-ho amb ningú," va confessar Marc, les seves paraules surant entre ells com flocs de neu.En: "I like to write, but I've never had the courage to share it with anyone," Marc confessed, his words drifting between them like snowflakes.Ca: Clara va somriure, trobant familiar aquesta sensació.En: Clara smiled, finding this feeling familiar.Ca: "Jo pinto, o almenys ho intentava," va dir Clara.En: "I paint, or at least I used to try," Clara said.Ca: "Però he perdut la inspiració."En: "But I've lost the inspiration."Ca: A mesura que parlaven, els ulls de Clara es van il·luminar.En: As they spoke, Clara's eyes lit up.Ca: Marc tenia històries dins seu, històries que la podrien ajudar a redescobrir la seva pròpia imaginació.En: Marc had stories within him, stories that could help her rediscover her own imagination.Ca: I Marc, per la seva banda, sentia la llibertat de ser qui realment volia ser.En: And Marc, for his part, felt the freedom to be who he really wanted to be.Ca: Van decidir tornar a dins, però aquesta vegada amb una nova sensació d'esperança.En: They decided to go back inside, but this time with a renewed sense of hope.Ca: "Què et sembla si ens tornem a veure?" va suggerir Marc.En: "How about we meet again?" Marc suggested.Ca: "Em sembla perfecte," va contestar ella.En: "That sounds perfect," she replied.Ca: Aquella nit, sota les llums de Nadal, dos desconeguts es van convertir en aliats.En: That night, under the Christmas lights, two strangers became allies.Ca: Marc va entrar al menjador amb una nova decisió: seguiria les seves aspiracions creatives sense deixar de banda la seva carrera.En: Marc entered the dining room with a new resolution: he would pursue his creative aspirations without setting aside his career.Ca: Clara, d'altra banda, havia trobat una nova flama que li escalfava l'ànima.En: Clara, on the other hand, had found a new spark that warmed her soul.Ca: L'abraçada dels amics, el somriure dels pares, tot semblava més càlid sabent que havien plantat les llavors d'una nova aventura al bell mig del Nadal.En: The embrace of friends, the smiles of parents, everything seemed warmer knowing they had planted the seeds of a new adventure in the heart of Christmas.Ca: I així, un Nadal que semblava igual que els altres, es va convertir en l'inici d'una història que encara no estava escrita.En: And so, a Christmas that seemed just like any other became the beginning of a story yet unwritten.Ca: Però, dins d'ells, la aventura ja havia començat.En: But within them, the adventure had already begun. Vocabulary Words:the aroma: l'aromathe feast: el banquetcozy: acollidorathe enigma: l'enigmato mingle: s'entrellaçavathe frustration: la frustracióthe courage: el coratgethe spark: la flamathe actress: l'actriuthe snowflakes: els flocs de neuthe expectation: les expectativesto pursue: seguirthe ally: l'aliatthe embrace: l'abraçadashyly: tímidamentthe gathering: la reunióto interlace: entrellaçarthe career: la carrerathe inspiration: la inspiracióto drift: derivarthe pressure: les pressionsto confess: confessarunwritten: no estava escritathe painting: la pinturato illuminate: il·luminarthe tranquility: la tranquil·litatthe comfort: el confortto rediscover: redescobrirthe mist: el fumto hide: amagar

Episode 210 goes full holiday horror as we dive into Rare Exports with special guest Matt Philp. Creepy elves, feral Santas, and the strangest Christmas vibes ever.Please remember to like, comment, subscribe and click that notification bell for all our updates! It really helps us out!Starring: Onni Tommila, Jorma Tommila, Per Christian Ellefsen, Tommi Korpela, Rauno Juvonen, Ilmari Järvenpää, Peeter Jakobi, Jonathan Hutchings & Risto SalmiDirected By: Jalmari HelanderSynopsis: A young boy named Pietari (Onni Tommila) and his friend Juuso (Ilmari Järvenpää) think a secret mountain drilling project near their home in northern Finland has uncovered the tomb of Santa Claus. However, this a monstrous, evil Santa, much unlike the cheery St. Nick of legend. When Pietari's father (Jorma Tommila) captures a feral old man (Peeter Jakobi) in his wolf trap, the man may hold the key to why reindeer are being slaughtered and children are disappearing.Watch LIVE on Twitch (https://www.twitch.tv/heydidyouseethisone) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@HeyDidYouSeeThisOne/videos) every Thursday at 8 PM ESTWE HAVE MERCH - https://www.redbubble.com/people/HDYSTMerch/shop?asc=u & http://tee.pub/lic/GdSYxr8bhtYWe use White Bat Audio – a user that creates DMCA free music for podcasters and YouTubers. Please follow at: https://www.youtube.com/@WhiteBatAudioAudio version of the show: Spotify - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/heydidyouseethisone Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hey-did-you-see-this-one/id1712934175YouTube Audio Podcast - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD6BOSx2RcKuP4TogMPKXRMCxqfh5k9IU&si=umIaVrghJdJEu2ARA MEMBER OF THE UNITED FEDERATION OF PODCASTSCheck us out online at: https://www.ufpodcasts.com/Main Intro and Outro Themes created by Josh Howard - remixes by Jacob Hiltz & Jake ThurgoodLogo created by Jeff RobinsonChapters:00:00 - Intro04:30 - A Brief Synopsis09:24 - Brief Histories21:17 - Production Talk35:36 - The BODY Of The Episode02:06:15 - Home Alone Of It All, Final Thoughts & Ratings02:23:39 - Plugs02:32:33 - Outro#rareexports #christmashorror #podcastclips #mattphilp #heydidyouseethisone

Fluent Fiction - Hindi: Adventures Beyond Boundaries: A Delhi Zoo Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hi/episode/2025-12-12-23-34-02-hi Story Transcript:Hi: सर्दियों की एक सुहानी सुबह थी।En: It was a pleasant winter morning.Hi: दिल्ली का चिड़ियाघर बच्चों की हँसी और खिलखिलाहट से गूंज रहा था।En: The Delhi Zoo was echoing with the laughter and giggles of children.Hi: हर तरफ़ क्रिसमस की सजावट थी, चमकते हुए सितारे और रंग-बिरंगी लाइट्स चिड़ियाघर को खास बना रही थी।En: Christmas decorations were everywhere, with twinkling stars and colorful lights making the zoo special.Hi: ठंडी हवा में गरम समोसों की खुशबू फैल रही थी।En: The aroma of hot samosas was spreading through the cold air.Hi: आरव और मीरा अपने स्कूल के फील्ड ट्रिप का हिस्सा थे।En: Aarav and Meera were part of their school's field trip.Hi: दोनों अच्छे दोस्त थे लेकिन बहुत अलग स्वभाव के।En: Both were good friends but had very different personalities.Hi: आरव को जानवरों से बेहद लगाव था, वह शांत और अंतर्मुखी था।En: Aarav had a deep affection for animals, he was quiet and introverted.Hi: वह यहां का हर जानवर देखना चाहता था और नोट्स बनाना चाहता था।En: He wanted to see every animal there and take notes.Hi: दूसरी तरफ, मीरा थी जो हमेशा नयी जगहों को खोजने के लिए उत्सुक रहती थी।En: On the other hand, Meera was always eager to explore new places.Hi: गाइड ने बच्चों का समूह बनाया और उन्हें चिड़ियाघर के अलग-अलग हिस्सों में घुमाने लगी।En: The guide formed groups of children and began showing them different parts of the zoo.Hi: आरव को सबसे पीछे चलना पसंद था ताकि वह जानवरों को अच्छे से देख सके।En: Aarav preferred to walk at the back so he could observe the animals closely.Hi: मीरा को अचानक एक बंद गेट दिखा, जिस पर "अस्थायी रूप से बंद" का बोर्ड लगा था।En: Suddenly, Meera saw a closed gate with a sign that said "Temporarily Closed."Hi: उसकी आंखों में चमक आ गई।En: Her eyes lit up.Hi: "आओ न, देखें क्या है वहां," उसने आरव से कहा।En: "Come on, let's see what's there," she said to Aarav.Hi: आरव के मन में हलचल मच गई।En: Aarav felt a stir in his mind.Hi: वह जानता था कि उसे नियम तोड़ने नहीं चाहिए, लेकिन उसे कुछ नया देखने की उत्सुकता थी।En: He knew he shouldn't break the rules, but he was curious to see something new.Hi: आखिरकार, उसने मीरा के साथ जाने का निर्णय लिया।En: Eventually, he decided to accompany Meera.Hi: वे चुपचाप उस क्षेत्र में दाखिल हो गए।En: They quietly entered that area.Hi: अचानक, वे एक अनोखे हिस्से में पहुँच गए।En: Suddenly, they reached a unique section.Hi: वहां कुछ ऐसे दुर्लभ जानवर थे जो आम तौर पर प्रदर्शनी में नहीं होते।En: There were some rare animals that were usually not on display.Hi: आरव ने उन जानवरों को देखकर समझा कि यह उसकी क्लास असाइनमेंट के लिए अद्वितीय साबित हो सकता है।En: Seeing those animals, Aarav realized that this could prove to be unique for his class assignment.Hi: उसकी खुशी का ठिकाना नहीं था।En: He was overjoyed.Hi: लेकिन तभी एक गार्ड ने उन्हें देख लिया।En: But then a guard saw them.Hi: आरव और मीरा को डर लगा कि अब उन्हें डांट पड़ सकती है।En: Aarav and Meera were afraid they might get scolded.Hi: लेकिन गार्ड ने बजाय उन्हें डांटने के, आरव की किताब देखी जिसमें उसने जानवरों के बारे में नोट्स बनाए थे।En: However, instead of scolding them, the guard noticed Aarav's book with notes about the animals.Hi: गार्ड ने उनकी रुचि देखकर उनका उत्साह बढ़ाया।En: Impressed by their interest, the guard encouraged their enthusiasm.Hi: "तुम्हारी इच्छा और ज्ञान देखकर, मुझे लगता है कि तुम्हें यह जानवर और करीब से देखने का मौका मिलना चाहिए," गार्ड ने कहा।En: "Looking at your interest and knowledge, I think you should get the chance to see these animals up close," the guard said.Hi: "बस वादा करो कि तुम तुरंत लौटकर आओगे।En: "Just promise you'll come back immediately."Hi: "आरव और मीरा ने खुशी-खुशी हाँ कर दी।En: Aarav and Meera happily agreed.Hi: उन्होंने वह दुर्लभ जानवर देखे और आरव ने बहुत सारे जरूरी नोट्स बनाए।En: They saw the rare animals and Aarav took lots of important notes.Hi: इस घटना के बाद, आरव को अपने आत्मविश्वास में वृद्धि महसूस हुई।En: After this incident, Aarav felt an increase in his confidence.Hi: उसने समझा कि कभी-कभी अपने कम्फर्ट जोन से बाहर निकलने में भी कुछ अच्छा पाया जा सकता है।En: He realized that sometimes stepping out of his comfort zone could lead to something good.Hi: जब वे बाकी बच्चों के पास लौटे, तो आरव को ऐसा लगा जैसे उसने अपनी एक नई दुनिया खोज ली थी।En: When they returned to the rest of the children, Aarav felt like he had discovered a new world.Hi: मीरा भी उसकी प्रगति देखकर खुश थी और उन्होंने क्रिसमस के इस माहौल में कुछ खास यादें बनाई।En: Meera was also happy seeing his progress, and they created some special memories in this Christmas atmosphere.Hi: इस तरह, दिल्ली चिड़ियाघर की वह यात्रा आरव और मीरा के लिए कई सबक और यादों से भरी साबित हुई।En: Thus, the visit to the Delhi Zoo proved to be full of lessons and memories for Aarav and Meera. Vocabulary Words:pleasant: सुहानीechoing: गूंज रहा थाdecorations: सजावटtwinkling: चमकते हुएaffection: लगावintroverted: अंतर्मुखीobserve: देख सकेtemporarily: अस्थायी रूप सेcurious: उत्सुकताrare: दुर्लभdisplay: प्रदर्शनीscolded: डांटencouraged: उत्साह बढ़ायाimpressed: प्रभावितenthusiasm: उत्सुकpromise: वादाconfidence: आत्मविश्वासcomfort zone: कम्फर्ट जोनmemories: यादेंunique: अनोखेassignment: असाइनमेंटdiscovered: खोज लीgiggles: खिलखिलाहटintrigued: उत्सुकprove: साबितaccompany: साथ जानाstir: हलचलarea: क्षेत्रgazing: देखनाaroma: खुशबू

We want to wish everyone Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!  This is the last episode of season five.  On this episode we are talking about the haunted Cresent Hotel and how ghost appear during Christmas time.  We are also talking about how Dec. 25 is one of the best nights to talk to a loved one that has passed away because the veil between the living and the dead is the thinnest. We have a story about a guy who was vistited by his mom on Christmas.  We are also talking about some of the traditions that take place during the Yule like telling scary stories.  Finally we we have been seeing and hearing some crazy stories of Gargoyle sightings and encounters taking place in Chicago recently. We will be taking a short break to spend time with our family but will be back with season 6 on Jan. 23!"Remember, curiosity did't kill these Two Scaredy Cats!"Support the showThanks for listening and follow us on Instagram and YouTube @twoscaredycatspodcast

What an episode we have for you this week - an incredible conversation with a formidable woman. Amanda Owen is known to many as The Yorkshire Shepherdess, and her family life has been shared with us through social media and numerous TV series. Since her separation from her ex-husband Clive she's adapted to a new way of living - sharing the farm as they still do, with children running between the two houses on their land. Her outlook on life has been shaped by the outstandingly beautiful surroundings of the Yorkshire Dales, and it's a refreshing take on modern living. Her new book Christmas Tales from the Farm is out now - and she talks about Christmas with all the children in this episode - it's fascinating. Enjoy this (literal) fireside chat. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fluent Fiction - Catalan: Perseverance Brews Dreams: A Coffee Roastery Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2025-12-11-23-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: A l'acollidor torrefactor de cafè d'un petit poble català, la bellesa de l'hivern brillava a través de les finestres entelades.En: In the cozy coffee roastery of a small Catalan village, the beauty of winter shone through the foggy windows.Ca: Els llums càlids penjats del sostre iluminaven les taules de fusta, plenes de sacs de grans de cafè.En: Warm lights hanging from the ceiling illuminated wooden tables filled with sacks of coffee beans.Ca: L'ambient estava perfumat amb l'aroma intens que només un bon cafè pot oferir.En: The atmosphere was perfumed with the intense aroma that only a good coffee can offer.Ca: Júlia, la barista dedicada, somiava cada dia amb obrir el seu propi cafè.En: Júlia, the dedicated barista, dreamed every day of opening her own café.Ca: Martí, el seu company de feina, sempre estava al seu costat, oferint-li suport i una dosi de realitat quan calia.En: Martí, her coworker, was always by her side, offering support and a dose of reality when needed.Ca: A pocs dies del Nadal, una gran comanda de cafè havia de sortir del torrefactor.En: A few days before Christmas, a large coffee order had to leave the roastery.Ca: L'ocasió era perfecta per establir una reputació excel·lent i guanyar el bonus que ajudaria Júlia a començar a estalviar per al seu somni.En: The occasion was perfect to establish an excellent reputation and earn the bonus that would help Júlia start saving for her dream.Ca: Però, de sobte, van rebre la notícia més temuda: una inspecció de salut obligava a tancar la torrefactura.En: But suddenly, they received the most dreaded news: a health inspection required the roastery to close.Ca: Júlia es va quedar sense paraules, amb els ulls amples de preocupació.En: Júlia was left speechless, her eyes wide with worry.Ca: "Martí, què fem ara?En: "Martí, what do we do now?"Ca: " va preguntar.En: she asked.Ca: Martí, sempre el realista, va reflexionar una mica abans de respondre.En: Martí, always the realist, pondered a bit before responding.Ca: "Hem de contactar amb el responsable local de salut.En: "We need to contact the local health official."Ca: "Després d'una ràpida trucada, Júlia va aconseguir una audiència amb l'inspector de salut.En: After a quick call, Júlia secured an audience with the health inspector.Ca: Va ser persuasiva, explicant la importància del termini de lliurament i l'impacte que tindria un retard.En: She was persuasive, explaining the importance of the delivery deadline and the impact a delay would have.Ca: L'inspector, commogut per la seva passió i integritat, va prometre accelerar el procés tant com fos possible.En: The inspector, moved by her passion and integrity, promised to expedite the process as much as possible.Ca: Mentrestant, van decidir reunir al petit equip del torrefactor.En: Meanwhile, they decided to gather the small roastery team.Ca: Júlia els va convocar i va exposar el pla: treballar hores extres en una ubicació temporal que Martí havia localitzat a prop del poble.En: Júlia summoned them and laid out the plan: work overtime at a temporary location that Martí had found near the village.Ca: Tots van acceptar col·laborar, inspirats per la determinació de Júlia.En: Inspired by Júlia's determination, everyone agreed to collaborate.Ca: Aquella nit, sota un cel cobert d'estrelles i fred hivernal, Júlia i Martí van liderar l'equip en un vell cobert prestat per un amic del poble.En: That night, under a star-covered sky and winter chill, Júlia and Martí led the team in an old shed lent by a friend from the village.Ca: Van rostir, empaquetar i preparar els sacs de cafè amb dedicació i entusiasme.En: They roasted, packaged, and prepared the coffee sacks with dedication and enthusiasm.Ca: El seu esperit de col·laboració i perseverança va mantenir viva la flama de l'esperança.En: Their spirit of collaboration and perseverance kept the flame of hope alive.Ca: Finalment, el matí abans de Nadal, l'ordre estava preparada, i els sacs de cafè sortien del poble en camí cap als clients.En: Finally, the morning before Christmas, the order was ready, and the coffee sacks were leaving the village on their way to customers.Ca: Júlia, esgotada però satisfeta, va rebre la notícia esperada: no només el torrefactor havia complert l'ordre, sinó que la seva iniciativa i lideratge havien estat recompensats amb un augment de sou.En: Júlia, exhausted but satisfied, received the awaited news: not only had the roastery fulfilled the order, but her initiative and leadership had been rewarded with a raise.Ca: Amb el cor ple de gratitud, Júlia va comprendre que la perseverança i el treball en equip tenien la clau del seu èxit.En: With a heart full of gratitude, Júlia realized that perseverance and teamwork held the key to her success.Ca: Sabia que, amb el temps, aconseguiria el seu somni de tenir el seu propi cafè.En: She knew that, with time, she would achieve her dream of owning her own café.Ca: I avui, estava una mica més a prop d'aconseguir-lo.En: And today, she was a bit closer to achieving it.Ca: Il·luminada pel caliu del Nadal, Júlia va somriure a Martí.En: Illuminated by the warmth of Christmas, Júlia smiled at Martí.Ca: Gràcies a l'amistat i treballar junts, havien superat una gran prova, i ara gaudien d'un futur esperançador, envoltats pel perfum intens i agradable del cafè recentment rostit.En: Thanks to friendship and working together, they had overcome a great challenge, and now enjoyed a hopeful future, surrounded by the intense and pleasant aroma of freshly roasted coffee. Vocabulary Words:the roastery: el torrefactorcozy: acollidorthe sack: el sacto shine: brillarto illuminate: iluminarthe aroma: l'aromathe barista: la baristathe coworker: el company de feinathe support: el suportthe reality: la realitatthe reputation: la reputacióthe bonus: el bonussuddenly: de sobtedreaded: temudathe inspection: la inspeccióto require: obligarthe health official: el responsable de salutpersuasive: persuasivathe deadline: el terminithe impact: l'impacteto expedite: accelerarto summon: convocarthe determination: la determinacióthe shed: el cobertto roast: rostitto package: empaquetarthe perseverance: la perseverançathe flame: la flamaexhausted: esgotadarewarded: recompensats

Rebecca and Tori are joined again by Debra to continue with Scrooge-Off 2025. Guy Pearce returns after trouncing Reginald Owens in Round 1. Pearce is up against Patrick Stewart. Who will emerge the winner of Round 2?MusicApache Rock Instrumental by Sound Atelier licensed through Jamendo Music.A Christmas Tale by Aleksey Voronin on PixabaySound EffectsRecord Scratch: Sound Effect free on Pixabay

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Heart-Wrapped Gifts: A Christmas Tale of Generosity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2025-12-08-08-38-20-hu Story Transcript:Hu: A tél már beköszöntött, Esztergom városát hó borította be.En: Winter had already arrived, covering the city of Esztergom with snow.Hu: Az emberek vastag kabátokban sétálgattak az ünnepi piacon, mely a nagy és fenséges Esztergomi Bazilika lábánál terült el.En: People strolled in thick coats through the holiday market, which sprawled at the foot of the grand and majestic Esztergomi Bazilika.Hu: A dóm fényárban úszott, és barátságos, meleg ragyogást árasztott a forgatag felett.En: The dome was bathed in light and emitted a friendly, warm glow over the bustling crowd.Hu: Mindenütt fenyőillat terjengett, és az emberek karácsonyi dalokat dúdoltak boldogan.En: The scent of pine was everywhere, and people hummed Christmas carols happily.Hu: Ákos lassan lépdelt, bánatosan nézelődött a standok között.En: Ákos walked slowly, looking sadly among the stands.Hu: Az ünnepi piac zsúfolt volt, sok árus kínálta portékáját.En: The holiday market was crowded, with many vendors offering their goods.Hu: Ákos szerette volna meglepni a párját egy különleges ajándékkal, de minden, amit talált, már valaki más kezében landolt, vagy nem volt eléggé egyedi.En: Ákos wanted to surprise his partner with a special gift, but everything he found either ended up in someone else's hands or wasn't unique enough.Hu: Zsuzsa és László is vele tartottak.En: Zsuzsa and László were also with him.Hu: Zsuzsa lelkesen nézegette a kézműves termékeket, László pedig gyors, hatékony vásárlást javasolt.En: Zsuzsa enthusiastically looked at the handmade products, while László suggested a quick, efficient shopping trip.Hu: Ákos azonban nem akart elkapkodni semmit, inkább gondosan keresgélt.En: However, Ákos didn't want to rush anything; instead, he searched carefully.Hu: "Szeretnék valamit, ami igazán különleges," mondta Ákos zavartan.En: "I'd like something truly special," said Ákos hesitantly.Hu: "Valami, amiből érezheti, hogy mennyire fontos nekem.En: "Something that makes her feel how important she is to me."Hu: "A piac végén rábukkant egy standra, ahol kézzel készített díszek és személyre szabott könyvek sorakoztak.En: At the end of the market, he stumbled upon a stand with handmade ornaments and personalized books lined up.Hu: Két tárgy keltette fel Ákos figyelmét: egy gyönyörű, faragott karácsonyi dísz és egy verseskötet, ahol egyéni üzeneteket lehetett kérni.En: Two items caught Ákos's attention: a beautiful, carved Christmas ornament and a poetry book where individual messages could be requested.Hu: Ákos fantáziája szárnyalni kezdett.En: Ákos's imagination began to soar.Hu: A dísz csodaszép volt, aprólékos munkával, de ugyanakkor a könyv ötlete is megfogta.En: The ornament was stunning, intricately crafted, but he was also captivated by the idea of the book.Hu: Eközben hirtelen más is megállt a dísz előtt.En: Meanwhile, someone else suddenly stopped in front of the ornament.Hu: Egy középkorú hölgy, ugyanúgy lenyűgözve, a díszért nyúlt.En: A middle-aged woman, equally captivated, reached for the ornament.Hu: Elsőre csalódás futott át Ákos arcán, de aztán eszébe jutott valami.En: At first, disappointment washed over Ákos's face, but then he remembered something.Hu: "Tessék, öné lehet," mondta mosolyogva a hölgynek.En: "Here, it's yours," he said, smiling at the woman.Hu: "Biztosan találok valami más szépet.En: "I'm sure I'll find something else beautiful."Hu: "A hölgy hálásan köszönte meg, és Ákos elégedetten bólogatott.En: The woman thanked him gratefully, and Ákos nodded contentedly.Hu: Ő inkább a könyv mellett döntött, és megbeszélte az eladóval, hogy egyedi verseket és üzenetet illesszen bele, melyek kifejezik érzéseit.En: He decided on the book instead and arranged with the vendor to include custom poems and messages that would express his feelings.Hu: Ahogy Zsuzsa és László csatlakoztak hozzá, Zsuzsa megjegyezte, "Bárcsak mindenki meglátná, hogy az ajándék mögötti gondolat mennyire fontos.En: As Zsuzsa and László joined him, Zsuzsa remarked, "I wish everyone could see how important the thought behind the gift is."Hu: "Ákos elmosolyodott, és már nem is bánkódott a karácsonyi dísz miatt.En: Ákos smiled, no longer upset about the Christmas ornament.Hu: "Igen, a legfontosabb a szív és a szeretet, amit az ajándékba csomagolsz.En: "Yes, the most important thing is the heart and love that you wrap in the gift."Hu: "A három barát elégedetten indult haza, a bazilika pedig még mindig meleg fénnyel őrködött az ünnepi varázslat felett.En: The three friends set off home contentedly, while the bazilika still watched over the holiday magic with its warm light.Hu: Együttlélegzéssel és mosollyal zárták az estét, az időjárás fagyos volt, de a szívük nem.En: They ended the evening with shared breaths and smiles; the weather was frigid, but their hearts were not. Vocabulary Words:strolled: sétálgattakmajestic: fenségesbathed: úszottemitted: árasztottscent: illatcarols: dalokatstumbled: rábukkantornaments: díszekpoetry: verseskötetcaptivated: lenyűgöztedisappointment: csalódásgratefully: hálásancustom: személyre szabottcontentedly: elégedettenfrigid: fagyosglow: ragyogásthummed: dúdoltakunique: egyedienthusiastically: lelkesenefficient: hatékonyhesitantly: zavartanintricately: apróékosanimagination: fantáziabreathed: lélegzettstands: standokvendors: áruscarefully: gondosanwrapped: csomagolszfoot: lábánálpartners: párját

Send us a textWelcome to the Abyss, and Happy Holidays!  This week we dive into terrifying true stories with a Christmas theme.  Join us as we discuss a scary Tinder date gone wrong, a fake Santa, a horrifying Airbnb discovery, and strange snowmen!  Bundle up and grab your favorite spiked holiday drink, you're going to need it!Want to support the show?  Click the link for our monthly subscription service and join the list to have your name shouted out at the end of every episode, and thanks in advance for the constant support and helping our show grow.  https://www.buzzsprout.com/848203/supportOne time donations to the podcasthttps://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=944KDRUHSDAQCHave a subject you'd like us to cover?  Send it our way at entertheabysspod@gmail.comPrison Pen Pal PodcastHear real stories from prison inmates, their free-world pen pals, family, and friends.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

The War With Pride, 5 of 5 from November 30, 2025 “In a world buying up every selfish whim we are spent by Jesus for others' benefit.” 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 by Michael Lockstampfor (@miklocks)SUMMARYThis sermon on 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 examines how Paul's dedication to the Corinthian church challenges modern views of love. Pastor Michael contrasts self-serving love with biblical love, which grieves over sin and guides others to repentance. Paul's refusal of financial support from Corinth is shown as sacrificial devotion to their spiritual health. Believers are urged to consider if they are "spent by Jesus" for others, instead of pursuing selfish desires, and to confront stumbling blocks in their lives, stressing that love sometimes requires addressing sin.REFLECTION & DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Love and Gifts: A Heartwarming Tokyo Christmas Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2025-12-04-08-38-19-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 東京の大きなデパートは、クリスマスの光でキラキラしていました。En: The large department store in Tokyo was sparkling with Christmas lights.Ja: 人々は笑顔でショッピングを楽しんでいます。En: People were enjoying shopping with smiles on their faces.Ja: しかし、アキオとエミコの二人には少し緊張感がありました。En: However, there was a bit of tension between Akio and Emiko.Ja: 「ああ、人が多いね！」エミコは嬉しそうに、しかし少し困ったように言いました。En: "Wow, there are so many people!" Emiko said happily, but with a hint of concern.Ja: 「弟へのプレゼント、見つかるかな。」En: "I wonder if we can find a gift for my little brother."Ja: 「大丈夫だよ、エミコ。僕が手伝う。」En: "Don't worry, Emiko. I'll help you."Ja: アキオはにっこり笑い、エミコの顔を見て言いました。En: Akio said with a smile, looking at Emiko's face.Ja: アキオは、エミコが弟に完璧なプレゼントを見つける手伝いをしたいと思っていました。En: Akio wanted to help Emiko find the perfect gift for her brother.Ja: そして、自分の気持ちをエミコに伝えるためのプレゼントも探していました。En: He was also looking for a gift to express his feelings to Emiko.Ja: でも、それはまだ秘密です。En: But that was still a secret.Ja: デパートの中は、本当にたくさんの人がいました。En: The inside of the department store was indeed crowded with people.Ja: たくさんのものが売れて消えていきます。En: Many items were being sold out quickly.Ja: アキオとエミコは、おもちゃ売り場に向かいました。En: Akio and Emiko headed to the toy section.Ja: そこには、エミコの弟が大好きなキャラクターのおもちゃがありました。En: There, they found toys of a character her brother loves.Ja: 「これ、弟にどうかな？」エミコは目を輝かせて言いました。En: "How about this for my little brother?" Emiko said with sparkling eyes.Ja: しかし、それは最後の一つでした。En: However, it was the last one.Ja: アキオは深く考えました。En: Akio thought deeply.Ja: このおもちゃをエミコに渡したら、弟は喜ぶ。En: If he gave Emiko this toy, her brother would be happy.Ja: でも、自分の気持ちを伝えるためのネックレスを選ぶのは諦めることになるかもしれない。En: But he might have to give up choosing a necklace to convey his feelings.Ja: ふと、アキオはおもちゃの隣のケースの中に輝く小さなネックレスを見つけました。En: Suddenly, Akio spotted a small, shining necklace in the case next to the toys.Ja: それはシンプルで、でもとても素敵でした。En: It was simple, but very beautiful.Ja: 「エミコ、ちょっと待ってて。」En: "Emiko, wait here for a moment."Ja: アキオは急いで会計に向かいました。En: Akio rushed to the checkout.Ja: そして、心の中で決めました。両方買おう。En: And made a decision in his heart to buy both.Ja: アキオはおもちゃとネックレスを手に持ち、エミコの元に戻りました。En: Akio returned to Emiko with the toy and the necklace in hand.Ja: 「これ、あなたの弟にぴったりだよ。」おもちゃをエミコに渡しました。En: "This is perfect for your brother," he said, handing the toy to Emiko.Ja: 「ありがとう、アキオ！すごく嬉しい！」エミコは大喜び。En: "Thank you, Akio! I'm so happy!" Emiko said, delighted.Ja: クリスマスイブの夜、アキオはエミコに別れ際、包みを渡しました。En: On Christmas Eve night, Akio handed Emiko a package as they parted.Ja: 「これは君に。」En: "This is for you."Ja: 「え？何？」エミコはびっくりしたけど、包みを開けました。En: "Huh? What is it?" Emiko was surprised but opened the package.Ja: そこには、キレイなネックレスが入っていました。En: Inside was a beautiful necklace.Ja: 「エミコ、実は…」アキオは緊張していましたが、勇気を出して続けました。En: "Emiko, actually..." Akio was nervous, but he mustered courage and continued.Ja: 「僕は君が大好きなんだ。」En: "I really like you."Ja: エミコは一瞬驚いた表情を見せましたが、すぐに微笑みながらアキオを見つめました。En: Emiko showed a moment of surprise, then looked at Akio with a smile.Ja: 「そのネックレス、とても素敵。En: "The necklace is so lovely.Ja: ありがとう、アキオ。私も、アキオが大好きだよ。」En: Thank you, Akio. I really like you too."Ja: アキオはその瞬間、とても幸せを感じました。En: In that moment, Akio felt very happy.Ja: 彼は、人の幸せを優先しつつ、自分の気持ちを伝えることができました。En: He prioritized someone else's happiness while being able to convey his own feelings.Ja: 彼らは一緒に笑い、クリスマスの夜を心温まる思い出にしました。En: They laughed together and made the Christmas night a heartwarming memory. Vocabulary Words:crowded: たくさんの人sparkling: キラキラtension: 緊張感wonder: 不思議に思うhint: 少しconvey: 伝えるmight: かもしれないdelighted: 大喜びdecision: 決定express: 表現するpackage: 包みcontent: 内容secret: 秘密suddenly: ふとbeautiful: 素敵moment: 瞬間nervous: 緊張してcourage: 勇気happy: 幸せbrother: 弟necklace: ネックレスcharacter: キャラクターcheckout: 会計prioritize: 優先するlaugh: 笑うheartwarming: 心温まるmemory: 思い出prioritized: 優先しましたshining: 輝くtoy: おもちゃ

Boise's art scene is serving up some Christmas cheer with three festive productions that journey from a WWI truce to the Nutcracker to a bold, burlesque-inspired reimagining of the tale. 

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Lost Treasures and Lasting Bonds: A Christmas Tale in Gamla Stan Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2025-11-29-23-34-02-sv Story Transcript:Sv: I Gamla Stan, där de gamla husen lutade sig mot varandra som gamla vänner, glittrade snön sakta ned över de smala kullerstensgatorna.En: In Gamla Stan, where the old houses leaned against each other like old friends, the snow glittered slowly down over the narrow cobblestone streets.Sv: Julmarknaden var i full gång.En: The Christmas market was in full swing.Sv: Lampor hängde mellan de röda och gula byggnaderna och kastade ett varmt ljus på människorna som rörde sig mellan de färgglada stånden.En: Lights hung between the red and yellow buildings, casting a warm glow on the people moving between the colorful stalls.Sv: Det doftade pepparkakor och glögg.En: It smelled of gingerbread cookies and glögg.Sv: Linnea gick ivrigt genom folkmassan med Oskar bredvid sig.En: Linnea walked eagerly through the crowd with Oskar beside her.Sv: Hon höll hårt om sin röda halsduk, som nästan matchade de juliga dekorationerna runt omkring dem.En: She held tightly onto her red scarf, which almost matched the festive decorations around them.Sv: Hon behövde hitta ett gammalt familjehalsband som hade försvunnit, utan tvekan det mest dyrbara föremål familjen ägde, speciellt under jul.En: She needed to find an old family necklace that had disappeared, undoubtedly the most precious item the family owned, especially during Christmas.Sv: "Vi måste hitta det innan julafton", sa Linnea med en beslutsam glans i ögonen.En: "We must find it before Christmas Eve," said Linnea with a determined sparkle in her eyes.Sv: Oskar gled vant mellan horden av människor och skiftade sin blick efter detaljer.En: Oskar skillfully glided through the throng of people, his gaze shifting in search of details.Sv: Han hade alltid haft en förmåga att se sådant som andra missade.En: He had always had an ability to see things others missed.Sv: "Vi kan börja vid stånden nära kyrkan", föreslog han och pekade på håll.En: "We can start at the stalls near the church," he suggested, pointing in the distance.Sv: Trånga gångar ledde dem genom tjocka publikhorder och doft av nygräddade mandlar.En: Narrow alleys led them through thick crowds and the scent of freshly roasted almonds.Sv: De stannade vid varje bord, frågade med vänliga leenden, men ingen hade sett något.En: They stopped at every table, asking with friendly smiles, but no one had seen anything.Sv: Linnea kände hur en klump av oro växte inom henne.En: Linnea felt a lump of worry growing inside her.Sv: Mörkret föll snabbt, och marknadens ljus blev mer intensiva i den tidiga vinternatten.En: Darkness fell quickly, and the market's lights became more intense in the early winter night.Sv: De nådde slutligen en liten bod nära kanten av torget.En: They finally reached a small booth near the edge of the square.Sv: En gammal dam såg på dem över runda glasögon och fyllde på sina hemgjorda ljus.En: An old lady looked at them over round glasses and replenished her homemade candles.Sv: "Ursäkta mig", sa Oskar med sin sedvanliga nyfikenhet, "kan vi fråga om ni har sett ett halsband?"En: "Excuse me," said Oskar with his usual curiosity, "may we ask if you have seen a necklace?"Sv: Damen skakade på huvudet och skulle just återvända till sina kunder när hon stannade upp.En: The lady shook her head and was just about to return to her customers when she stopped.Sv: "Vänta, faktiskt!En: "Wait, actually!Sv: En av mina kunder, en ung flicka, plockade upp något från marken tidigare.En: One of my customers, a young girl, picked something up from the ground earlier.Sv: Kanske är det ert?"En: Could it be yours?"Sv: Linnea och Oskar följde damens anvisning till en annan bod.En: Linnea and Oskar followed the lady's directions to another booth.Sv: Där, på en liten silverbärare, låg halsbandet - den gamla berlocken med fin gravyr, en gåva som gått i arv genom generationer.En: There, on a small silver tray, lay the necklace - the old locket with fine engraving, a gift passed down through generations.Sv: Linnea log av lättnad och tårar glittrade i hennes ögon.En: Linnea smiled in relief, and tears glittered in her eyes.Sv: "Tack", viskade hon och kunde knappt tro sin tur.En: "Thank you," she whispered, hardly believing her luck.Sv: Oskar gav henne en liten klapp på axeln.En: Oskar gave her a gentle pat on the shoulder.Sv: De återvände hem, halsbandet tryggt i Linneas hand.En: They returned home, the necklace safely in Linnea's hand.Sv: Familjen, nu församlade i vardagsrummet under den stora julgranen, tog emot dem med öppen famn och skratt.En: The family, now gathered in the living room under the large Christmas tree, welcomed them with open arms and laughter.Sv: Traditionerna kunde nu fortsätta, och Linnea kände en värme inom sig, inte bara av glädje över att ha återfått den klenod hon så kärleksfullt vårdade, utan också tack vare Oskars ovärderliga hjälp.En: The traditions could now continue, and Linnea felt a warmth within her, not just from the joy of having recovered the heirloom she cherished so dearly, but also thanks to Oskar's invaluable help.Sv: Genom allt hade Linnea lärt sig att lita på andras perspektiv.En: Through it all, Linnea had learned to trust others' perspectives.Sv: Hon insåg att Oskars blick för detaljer hade varit avgörande.En: She realized that Oskar's eye for details had been crucial.Sv: Det var en lärdom hon bar med sig när familjens julsånger fyllde rummet med harmoni och förväntan inför högtiden som kom.En: It was a lesson she carried with her as the family's Christmas songs filled the room with harmony and anticipation for the upcoming holiday. Vocabulary Words:leaned: lutadeglittered: glittradecobblestone: kullerstenseagerly: ivrigtdecoration: dekorationprecious: dyrbaradetermined: beslutsamglide: glidathrong: hordenshifted: skiftadealleys: gångarlump: klumpreplenished: fyllde påengraving: gravyrpat: klapprecovered: återfåttheirloom: klenodcherished: vårdadeinvaluable: ovärderligaharmony: harmonianticipation: förväntangenerations: generationerbooth: bodtray: bärarelocket: berlockenperspectives: perspektivlanterns: lamporstall: ståndgift: gåvascent: doft