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Let's Continue the Journey-
As the holidays approach, let’s dive into everything that makes this season so special—along with a few things we could probably do without!
Ah, Christmas! Love it or hate it, there’s no escaping the festive spirit and all the cheer it brings. Let’s start with the good stuff. First up, the decorations! Everywhere you look, twinkling lights and colorful ornaments transform homes into winter wonderlands. It’s hard not to feel the joy they bring. Then, of course, there are the presents. Who doesn’t get a little thrill from the excitement of unwrapping a gift? It’s a wonderful feeling, whether you’re the giver or the receiver!
Next on the list is the food. Oh, the glorious food! Christmas cookies and sweet treats abound, and it’s nearly impossible to resist just one more (or five!). And let’s not forget the Christmas movies—everyone loves a good story with a happy ending, right? Cozying up on the couch with your favorite films becomes a cherished tradition during the holidays.
But, as much as we adore the season, there are definitely a few downsides that we can’t ignore. For those of us living in Texas, it’s pretty common to miss out on that picturesque snowy Christmas. Then there’s the reality of holiday spending. Gifts can really add up, and it can weigh heavily on our wallets. Family gatherings, while filled with love, can also bring a bit of family drama—because who doesn’t have at least one story about that? And let’s be honest: all those delicious cookies and treats can lead to a few extra pounds. The struggle is real!
But perhaps one of the biggest concerns during the holidays is the rise of holiday scammers. A recent article from AARP highlighted that more than 80% of people have encountered some form of holiday-related fraud. That’s a staggering number! Let’s talk about some common scams to watch out for so you can keep your merry spirit intact.
Firstly, if you ever receive a message saying your card has been declined after an online purchase, proceed with caution. Often, the transaction might have gone through, but scammers are fishing for more of your personal information. Don’t be tempted to enter another card—this could result in double charges!
During this season, many charities seek donations, and while it’s important to give back, be vigilant against sham charities that take advantage of your kindness. Fake websites and pushy telemarketers can easily mislead you.
When it comes to online shopping, it truly is convenient but beware of scams. Fake websites and misleading social media ads often impersonate major brands. If you come across a deal that seems too good to be true—like a luxury item listed way below market price—be on high alert!
And let’s discuss gift cards. They may seem like an easy gift idea for those hard-to-shop-for people, but did you know about “gift card draining”? Scammers can steal gift card information before you even buy it. Once you load money onto the card, it’s just too easy for them to make off with your hard-earned cash.
For more tips check out the AARP article on how to keep yourself safe this season.
So, remember, take a little caution and ask if something seems off.
Now, go ahead and enjoy a Holiday movie and grab that extra cookie—you’ve earned it!
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