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- The GrayVine Newsletter Monday 12.01.2025
The GrayVine Newsletter Monday 12.01.2025

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Monday Edition - January 9, 2026
Good morning Member
Happy Monday! I’ve been thinking about something that might strike a chord with many of you. Over the weekend, I accidentally knocked a little porcelain trinket off a shelf. It was one of those small sentimental things I’d kept for years, and seeing it in pieces made my heart sink. It made me wonder: What was the most precious item you’ve ever lost or broken? It could be something priceless or just personally meaningful. Head over to the forum and share your story—I’ll be right there reading along.
Before we start the day, let’s solve last Friday’s Word Unscramble: C U B I I S T
The answer is biscuit, and hats off to all of you who got it correct!
And now, warm up those brains for today’s Word Unscramble: P A Y H E R T
Think you’ve got it? Pop your guess into the forum, and we’ll give tomorrow’s shout-out to everyone who nails it. Alright, let’s get this week rolling with today’s stories: Two SSI payments arriving this month, tips to make the most out of your Medicare benefits, everyday essential at its lowest price in years, and more!
Blue — Newsletter Writer
News & Finance
Seniors receiving SSI will get 2 payments over $900 this month, including one hitting accounts in just hours. Have you checked your account yet?
Social Security is sending out 2026 benefit notices starting TODAY—with important updates about your monthly payments for next year.
This Cyber Monday, get a FREE iPhone*—even if your old one is cracked.
Did you know millions of Medicare users are leaving billions in FREE benefits unused? Here’s what you could be getting at no cost.
Some gifts are more than just beautiful—they’re meant to be treasured for generations. Shop Effy's Cyber Monday sale here.*
Cyber Monday deals are everywhere today, but experts warned against one key symbol before you click. Read this and save yourself from headaches.
Weigh in, GrayViners: From thriving to just getting by, seniors reveal what life on Social Security alone is really like. Do you agree?
Editor's Picks
What Else Is Making A Buzz Today?
A century-old New York fashion house is taking 30% off its iconic scarves*—and they’re every bit as good as you’ve heard.
For the first time in years, this everyday essential is under $3 nationwide. A welcome bit of relief heading into the holidays.
We rounded up the best Cyber Monday deals of 2025 so you don’t have to dig. Enjoy the savings here!
Fans of this beloved ‘90s sitcom are buzzing after one of its stars’ latest run-in with the law. Do you remember watching him?
ALDI shoppers in 24 states are being urged to throw out certain Christmas goodies after a recall alert over a potentially deadly ingredient.
After nearly two weeks apart, a senior found her beloved cat thanks to a simple AI tool. This heartwarming story is worth the read.
Health & Lifestyle
This well-loved burger chain is expanding again, with three new restaurants coming to this state next year. Is your area included?
Target is rolling out a new holiday return policy, with some shoppers getting a special “no-rush” bonus. See what’s in it for you.
Don’t let the cold sneak up on you! Snag these 6 must-have winter finds, including one cozy essential for just $6.
Dinner doesn’t get easier than this simple and satisfying dish that comes together in one pan and tastes like pure comfort.
Time for laughs: Visitors at a funeral can’t figure out why the widow responds differently to men and women, until the truth comes out.
The daily health habit you’ll actually stick with…
This time of year, it’s SO hard to stay in control of your health.
Holiday travel (and meals!), big family gatherings, dark and cold days, it’s easy to skip that workout, sleep in later than you should, or have just one more cookie.
That’s why you need a daily health habit that’s easy to stick with.
Meet AG1: With just one quick scoop every morning, you’ll get over 75 ingredients that help support your immune health, gut health, energy, and close nutrient gaps in your diet.
Right now is the best time to get started - with every new subscription, they are giving away $126 in free gifts for the holidays.
Give AG1 a try today and take control of your health this holiday season.
Today’s Trivia
In what country did the first LEGOLAND theme park open?

Image source: Unsplash/Aiva Apsite
A. USA
B. Denmark
C. Japan
D. Brazil
Emoji’s Decoded
Use the following emojis to name the classic nursery rhyme!

Hint: This classic children’s song ends with everyone “falling down”.
Think you got it? Submit your guess here! Did you crack the last one? Find out here.
Yesterday’s America
What Other Toys Were Popular Back Then?

Image source: Reddit
One look at this cheerful little crew and suddenly it’s the 1950s all over again—back when building your bug piece-by-piece felt like the height of excitement and a rainy afternoon could vanish in a blink. Even though this version looks a bit newer, that familiar pop of color and those silly googly eyes bring back the same old joy. What other toys were big favorites during your childhood? Share your classics here!
On This Day In History - January 9, 2026
1913 - The world's first moving assembly line debuted at a Ford factory in Michigan.
1988 - The inaugural World AIDS Day was observed.
What else happened On This Day throughout history? See them here!
Awww Of The Day

Image source: Reddit
Cuddle Crew
If this isn’t the sweetest little peace treaty ever signed on a couch, I don’t know what is. This snoozing black kitty and those two ducklings look like they’ve declared it a “no worries, no chores, all-nap day”, and honestly, who could argue with that? The way they’re all tucked in together shows you the world’s a kinder place than we remember. Do you have similar photos that make you go "aww"? We'd love to see it here!
Today's (Grand)Dad Joke
A driver’s quick thinking turns a late-night traffic stop into a hilariously surprising ending. Make someone else smile today—post your jokes in the forum!
Fascinating Fact Of The Day

Image Source: Unsplash/Camila Fernández León
Some countries are pulling off an energy milestone that sounds impossible—can you guess what they’ve done? Blow our minds with your own fun facts here!
Let's Save - Today's Deals
Up to 50% off @ Fresh Clean Threads*
Winter collection available now.

Frozen Asian Medley $1.75 @ ALDI
Easy, healthy, and yummy.

Vintage Coffee Mugs $21.23 @ Amazon
Elevate your everyday brew.
Found a good deal? Share it here! Note: Deals are not sponsored unless stated.















