'Tis the Season to be Jolly! Things are looking up: The stock market is up, holiday sales are in full swing, and the weather is feeling more like winter! The radio stations are playing nonstop Christmas music, and we all enjoy watching those sappy movies on the Hallmark channel.
So, what are your plans for this holiday? Is it a tradition for a big family get together at Mom's house, or do you all go out to a restaurant so nobody has to cook? While we usually have family over to our house, I'm always amazed that it takes hours to cook all our favorite dishes, and it seems to take only 20-30 minutes to eat it all. But boy-o-boy, I love the leftovers that taste even better the next day when I'm not so stressed from entertaining and overeating.
Sitting around the tree is also a favorite of ours, listening to carols, especially when my sweetie makes her famous homemade eggnog. There are usually two batches, one leaded and one unleaded, (if you know what I mean). A real fire in the fireplace is also a nice touch, as it brings back Christmas memories of when we lived in colder climates with snow. The holiday would not be complete without watching classic Christmas movies. Miracle on 42nd Street, It's a Wonderful Life, and White Christmas.
Keep in mind the real reason for the season, and here's to wishing you and yours a very merry Christmas! Ho, Ho, Ho!
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David really captures something special here about holiday traditions in retirement. Most people are surprised to learn how much holiday gatherings can impact your budget during retirement years. Between hosting family, gift-giving, and those restaurant splurges, December expenses can easily run 30-40% higher than typical months. If you're on a fixed income from Social Security, pension payments, or retirement account withdrawals, that holiday spike is worth planning for.
Here's the good news: a lot of retirees I talk to find creative ways to keep traditions without breaking the bank. Some families do potluck-style gatherings where everyone brings a dish, or they celebrate the 12 days after Christmas when restaurant prices drop back down. And those leftover feasts David mentions? That's actually smart budgeting in action.
Think of it this way: the memories you're making cost way less than you think when you focus on the simple pleasures like David's eggnog batches and classic movies. A little holiday planning today can make December much more jolly tomorrow.