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- The GrayVine Newsletter Friday 12.12.2025
The GrayVine Newsletter Friday 12.12.2025

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Friday Edition - January 9, 2026
Good morning, Member
Hip, hip, hooray—it’s finally Friday! The days can start to blend together, especially during the festive season, but I know plenty of us still have a mile-long to-do list. I’m headed out this weekend for some holiday grocery shopping (not sure if I’m early or already behind!) and I still haven’t decided what’s going on our table. So tell me: What’s one thing that always makes it onto your holiday menu? Share it in the forum—I just might borrow a few ideas. 😋
All right, let’s solve yesterday’s riddle: Lose me once, I'll come back stronger. Lose me twice, I'll leave forever. What am I?
The answer is teeth! Congratulations to our brilliant Riddle Masters!
For today’s mental exercise, try to unscramble this: L A R O P U P
Send in your answer for a chance at a shout-out on Monday! In today’s stories, we’ve got a Social Security policy push, SNAP benefit changes, a Costco recall to check, plus a few can’t-miss stories and feel-good reads to kick off your weekend.
Emerald — Newsletter Writer
News & Finance
Federal officials are nudging 39 states to change who gets to keep certain Social Security checks. Is this really a step in the right direction?
New rules could take certain items out of the grocery carts of nearly 3 million SNAP recipients. Here’s what could change at checkout.
This year, the most meaningful gift isn’t under the tree—it’s in the memories you bring back to life.*
A fresh recall alert of a Costco pantry staple was issued over risks of serious illness. Check your shelves and the list of other pulled products.
Time Magazine has crowned its “Person of the Year” for 2025— and it’s not who most people expected. Care to guess who?
Skip the stress! Try this senior-friendly way to give thoughtful presents this season without breaking your budget.
Editor's Picks
Hot Topics & Smart Moves
Rumors are spinning that a beloved host may be ready to step away after four decades on the fan-favorite game show. Could it be the end of an era?
Take a look at 17 scams hitting older Americans hard right now, plus the warning signs that can save you time, stress, and money.
Has December put you in a holiday pinch? Pick up these 4 budget-stretching strategies to keep your festive spirit alive.
If assisted living is in the cards for you down the road, these states can make the costs of senior care feel a lot less scary.
Food, Health, & Everday Wins
For TODAY only: A popular donut chain is spreading cheer with a dozen of its classic treat for just $1. Don’t miss this sweet deal, Member!
Manage your blood sugar, ease stress, and boost your health with… carbs? Yes, these nutritionist-approved picks are worth adding to your plate.
“Keep learning” is just one of 6 natural ways to support your memory and focus—and you might already be doing more of them than you realize.
Pets are family, and the worry when they wander off is no joke. One must-know trick can help you keep tabs on them and buy a little peace of mind.
A mom and son greeted Dad at the airport with a prank sign. Weigh in, GrayViners: Would you be laughing at this stunt? 😅
Simple, cozy, and full of feel-good ingredients. This gentle, gut-friendly soup is like a warm hug in a bowl.
The best Secret Santa gift? A Pop-Tart heating pad.
For the friend who loves cozy comfort and a touch of nostalgia, the Happy Helpers Pop-Tart Heating Pad is a sweet standout on any holiday gift list. Designed to look just like the iconic Strawberry Frosted Pop-Tart, this microwaveable cutie delivers warm, soothing relief for period cramps, sore muscles, or chilly winter days.
Perfect for your bestie, parent, sibling, or anyone who could use a little extra warmth this season. Equal parts comforting and charming, this Pop-Tart is guaranteed to be the most delightfully unexpected hit of your Secret Santa exchange!
Today’s Trivia
What is the hottest planet in our solar system?

Image source: NASA Hubble Space Telescope
A. Mercury
B. Venus
C. Earth
D. Mars
Emoji’s Decoded
Can You Guess The Famous Idiom?

Image source: The GrayVine
Hint: A saying about not believing everything you hear and staying a bit skeptical.
Drop your answer here! Did you nail the last game? See if you’re in the winners list!
Yesterday’s America
Remember Cooking With This?

Image source: Reddit
It sat right on the countertop, humming gently as it turned out weeknight dinners, Sunday breakfasts, and the kind of “one-pan wonders” every busy household relied on. Many watched a parent or grandparent flip, fry, or simmer something delicious inside this trusty classic. Do you remember cooking with this—and the meals that came out of it? Keep the nostalgia simmering and share a favorite memory here!
Today's (Grand)Dad Joke
A vocabulary lesson turns hilarious when one kid asks the teacher a blunt question. Share a laugh with your fellow GrayViners—post YOUR jokes in the forum!
Awww Of The Day

Image source: Reddit
Flower Power
Flowers can instantly brighten someone’s day—especially when they’re tucked behind the ear of a sweet little face like this. This pup looks ready to charm treats out of anyone within ten feet. Did this bring a little cheer to your day? We sure hope so. We’d also love to see your adorable photos, so send them our way!
On This Day In History - January 9, 2026
1925 - The world's first "motel", the Milestone Mo-Tel in California, opened.
1977 - Saturday Night Fever, starring John Travolta, had its world premiere.
What else happened on this day throughout history? Find out here!
Quote Of The Day
"There is no such thing as a lost child. Every child we once were is still alive within us."
— Pablo Neruda
If you could spend an afternoon with one of your “younger selves”, which age would you choose and why? Looking forward to reading your answers here!
Let's Save - Today's Deals
$7.99 Tape Sale @ Legacybox*
Preserve your old tapes and photos.

Degreaser Cleaner Spray $2.58 @ Amazon
Make kitchen cleanup a breeze.

Penne Pasta $0.74 @ Walmart
The perfect base for quick weeknight meals.
Found a good deal? Share it here! Note: Deals are not sponsored unless stated.
Today’s trivia answer: B.
Venus is the hottest planet in the solar system.















