In this reflective holiday episode of Novel and Nosh, we explore what’s gained and what’s quietly lost when convenience takes the driver’s seat during the Christmas season. Sparked by a simple conversation about online shopping, Courtney shares nostalgic memories of mall dinners, open-air shopping trips with friends, and the small, sensory-rich moments that made gift-gathering feel magical.
Together, we look at how modern life, burnout, and the emotional labor so many midlife women carry make convenience a lifeline—and why it deserves zero shame. But we also unpack the subtle ways convenience can flatten our experiences and separate us from the rituals, surprises, micro-connections, and sensory delights that ground us and help regulate our nervous system.
This episode offers a compassionate “middle path”: practical ways to blend the ease of online shopping with simple, seasonal traditions that bring back meaning—like creating one intentional shopping outing, pairing errands with cozy rituals, browsing for just one special gift in person, or using convenience to support small makers.
You’ll walk away with gentle questions to help you notice where convenience truly serves you, and where a little slowness might bring back joy, connection, and presence.
Tune in for nostalgia, nuance, and an invitation to savor the season—one small experience at a time.
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