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- The GrayVine Newsletter Thursday 12.18.2025
The GrayVine Newsletter Thursday 12.18.2025

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Thursday Edition - January 9, 2026
Good morning Member
Good morning, Member! I hope your week has been treating you kindly so far. Thursdays always feel like a quiet checkpoint to me, close enough to the weekend to breathe a little, but still a good day to take care of small things that tend to get pushed aside… The “life admin” kind of jobs!
One of our members mentioned recently how satisfying it feels to stay ahead of life “maintenance”, especially during the colder months. There’s a certain peace of mind that comes from knowing things are in order before they become urgent. Whether it’s the house, the paperwork pile, or even the car in the driveway, a little attention now can save a lot of stress later.
That’s why today’s sponsor, Spelab*, fits neatly into that mindset. They’re running a Holiday Heat sale with up to 66% off select auto parts*, including many practical components focused on performance, reliability, and keeping vehicles running smoothly. Some items are 50% off on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s very much a “when it’s gone, it’s gone” situation*.
If you’ve been meaning to replace a part, plan ahead for future upkeep, or simply like knowing you’ve handled things before the busy new year begins*, you can take advantage of the sale using the code ‘AFF66’ at the checkout*. The offer runs from December 15 through to December 27.
So I’m curious… what’s one “little chore” you never like to put off? We’d love to hear in the forum!
Let’s solve yesterday’s Word Unscramble: T A N L A R U
The word is natural! Hats off to our ever-clever Word Wizards!
Ready for another brain teaser? Here’s today’s riddle: If you drop me, I crack. If you smile at me, I smile back. What am I?
Go ahead and drop your answer—you could be tomorrow’s shout-out! Now, let’s turn our attention to today’s lineup. We’ve got important updates including Social Security changes, a TV star remembered, $1 Chipotle deal, winter wellness, and more!
Veronica — Newsletter Writer
News & Finance
One of the nation’s most trusted retirement programs is getting a major system switch-up. Will this hurt or help you in 2026?
Looking for an easier way to manage daily tasks? This service connects seniors with the support they need.* Find out more!
Before you slice into dessert, pause for a moment. A popular sweet treat from Kroger is now under recall. Is this on your counter?
A confident smile starts with quality care. Schedule your dental appointment today and save 20%.*
“See you out somewhere in the cosmos.” A beloved sci-fi TV star has died at 82, leaving behind heartfelt parting words.
This time of the year is all about family, memories, and stories that get passed down. One gift is helping families connect those dots.
An everyday grocery staple raised concerns after sharp objects were found inside the product at multiple Walmart locations.
Editor's Picks
Sweet Deals and Small Delights
A weekend shopping trip at Kohl’s could come with a surprise: Bonus cash up to $100 is up for grabs! Will YOU be one of the lucky ones?
Thinking about lunch? A Taco Bell favorite has returned, and you could snag one for just $1!
What began as a simple holiday tradition between a woman and her husband 40 years ago has become something deeply meaningful this year.
A quiet porch moment met modern technology. Cue the classic “wait… what?” reaction. 😂
This sweet, nutty, bubbly-golden pie recipe from GrayViner @Arlee is the kind of dessert people ask for every year. Now, you can make it, too!
Extra Reads We Don’t Want You To Miss
For 75 years, it’s been there for quick late-night bites. But this longtime fast-food go-to will be closing hundreds of locations soon. Will you miss it?
Major changes have been rolling out at Costco lately, and these two big changes could make your shopping feel easier than ever.
Scammers are counting on your trust to do their dirty work. Mega Millions has a warning that could save you from a mega headache.
It showed up at potlucks and holiday tables in the 1970s. Today, this retro dessert sparks raised eyebrows and nostalgia. Do you remember it?
Trying to support your immune system this winter? Skip supplements and complicated diets—these healthy foods fit easily into everyday meals.
Hands Down Some Of The Best 0% Intro APR Credit Cards
Balance Transfer cards can help you pay off high-interest debt faster. The FinanceBuzz editors reviewed dozens of cards with 0% intro APR offers for balance transfers and found the perfect cards.
Take a look at this article to find out how you can pay no interest on balance transfers until 2027 with these top cards.
Today’s Trivia
What is the loudest animal on Earth?

Image source: Jumping Jax/Unsplash
A. Lion
B. Blue whale
C. Elephant
D. Sperm whale
Front Porch Forum

Image source: Marcus Aurelius/Pexels
“I am at my wits end, my mother has been scammed twice in the last 2 years…”
Gather ’round, everyone! A GrayViner is in a difficult situation—read their story and share your advice.
Got a concern you’d like to talk about? Start a conversation with us.
What's The Image Saying?

Image source: The GrayVine
Looks can be deceiving, but I know you’ll solve this puzzle! Drop your answer here.
Did you crack the last game? See if you earned a shout-out!
Recipe Of The Day
Matzo Ball Soup

Image source: Food Network
Turn an ordinary day into something a little more comforting.
You can find the full recipe below!
On This Day In History - January 9, 2026
1787 - New Jersey officially joined the union as the nation’s third state.
1963 - Actor Brad Pitt was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma.
Take a trip down memory lane and see what else happened on this day in history.
Picture Of The Day

Image source: Member techgrandma/The GrayVine
Sunny Patch Of Memories
Grayviner @techgrandma brought some flower seeds home from the last school she worked at, planted them herself, and now she’s enjoying this bright patch of Black-eyed Susans. She even keeps them as her phone wallpaper—a reminder of the great times she had there. Do you have an everyday item that’s tied to a special memory? Tell us about it, and if you’ve got a lovely photo to share, send it our way!
Word Of The Day
SUCCOR
(SUHK-er) Help or comfort in times of need.
When used in a sentence: “The community offered succor to families after the storm.”
Let's Save - Today's Deals
Up to 70% OFF @ Legacybox*
Applies to E-Gift Cards.

Organic Basmati Rice $4.99 @ Trader Joe’s
Microwave perfect in 3 minutes.

Silicone Strainer $4.17 @ Amazon
Dishwasher-safe and easy to store.
Found a good deal? Share it here! Note: Deals are not sponsored unless stated.
Today’s trivia answer: D.
The sperm whale is the loudest animal on Earth.
















