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Christmas, Cabbage Patch Kids & Childhood Magic

Christmas, Cabbage Patch Kids & Childhood Magic

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In this episode, Hayley takes us back to the golden age of 80s toys, from Cabbage Patch Kids and My Little Pony to Care Bears and even a few unexpected Star Wars figures. While parents queued for hours to secure the must-have gifts, kids simply soaked up the magic. Tommy reflects on never being one for "butch toys," while Duncan enjoys the nostalgia trip.

Hayley also shares what it was like growing up with both Hanukkah and Christmas — gelt first, then presents. The food contrast is strong: Hanukkah meals were simple and comforting, while Christmas brought big flavours and even bigger portions. There's a brief celebration of Jacob's crackers being kosher, which still brings delight.

The trio dig into the essential Christmas foods: pigs in blankets, roast potatoes and parsnips, plus the joys of Boxing Day with cold cuts, pickles and bubble & squeak. A debate over Yorkshire puddings highlights the shift from tradition — where they were strictly for beef — to the modern reality where everyone gets one.

Tommy recalls living next to a 30,000-turkey farm, an experience that left a permanent sensory imprint. There's also a nod to the classic Bernard Matthews adverts and their unmistakable "bootiful" charm.

When it comes to discovering the truth about Santa, everyone has a story. Tommy spotted Santa with a black beard under a white one. Hayley saw Santa half-dressed and smoking outside a grotto. Duncan's belief faded slowly, though it didn't stop an LBC caller accusing him of "doing the work of the devil."

Finally, they revisit the chaos of festive school events. Tommy's memory of an ultra-long midnight mass leads the group to agree that 90 minutes should be the absolute limit, while nativity plays should never exceed 20 minutes. And of course, the legendary "Nativity Emu" year makes an appearance — a teacher allowed any animal costume, resulting in thirty-seven emus on stage.

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Email: ramblingretrononsense@gmail.com

We'd love to hear your childhood Christmas memories, festive disasters, toy obsessions or nativity nightmares. Send in your stories — we might read them out in a future episode!

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