Issue 30: The Retirement Buzz

Seasons of Strength, Seasons of Change

Author

Retirement Dreammaker
September 28, 2025

Just as leaves begin to turn, this week invites us to reflect, release, and realign. From honoring those we’ve lost to finding joy in the little shifts of season, it’s a moment to embrace change with grace—and strength with purpose.

🧩 RIDDLE OF THE WEEK

What has hands but can’t clap?

🎖️ SPECIAL HOLIDAY & MILITARY RECOGNITIONS

🌹 September 21 – Gold Star Mother’s & Family’s Day

This solemn observance honors the families of fallen service members—those who’ve carried grief with quiet courage and unshakable grace.

This solemn observance honors the families of fallen service members—those who’ve carried grief with quiet courage and unshakable grace.

Since its recognition by Congress in 1936, Gold Star Mother’s & Family’s Day has become a day of remembrance and national gratitude.

This year’s ceremonies included:

  • Candlelight vigils

  • Wreath-laying at Arlington

  • Community remembrance walks across 30+ states

“You never stop loving, and you never forget,” said Anita R., 82, whose son served in Vietnam. “We carry them forward.”

👉 Reach out to a Gold Star family in your community or local VFW. Even a simple, heartfelt “We remember” can mean the world.

🍁 September 22 – Fall Equinox

The equinox marks a moment of balance—equal parts day and night—as we officially enter autumn.

This season is a time for:

  • Letting go of what’s no longer serving you

  • Creating routines that ground you

  • Embracing change—not fearing it

“Every leaf that falls is nature saying: it’s okay to let go,” said Rev. Susan May, a senior retreat leader in Vermont.

👉 Light a candle tonight and write down one thing you want to release before the end of the year. Burn it, bury it, or tuck it away as a reminder: growth requires release.

🦌 September 27 – National Hunting and Fishing Day

Established in 1972 by President Nixon, this day honors the tradition and conservation impact of America’s sportsmen and women.

Millions of retirees still hunt, fish, or simply spend time in nature. These outdoor rituals connect us to family, freedom, and focus.

“My grandson caught his first fish this summer,” said Ralph, 74. “Same lake where I learned. It’s not just a memory—it’s a legacy.”

👉 What’s your most cherished outdoor memory—and who were you with? Write it down. Or better yet, tell them.

Seasonal Affective Disorder Can Begin in Early Fall

According to the Mayo Clinic and National Institute on Aging, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) isn’t just a “winter blues” problem—it often begins in early autumn, as daylight starts to wane.

Symptoms can include:

  • Fatigue

  • Trouble focusing

  • Lower mood or disinterest in usual activities

The good news? Early action helps:

  • Light therapy (morning sun or a light box)

  • Vitamin D supplements

  • Gentle outdoor exercise

👉 Spend 15 minutes outside before 10 a.m. each day this week. Even a walk on your porch counts.

“I used to feel off every fall,” said Clara M., 67. “Turns out, I just needed more light—and less scrolling.”

Don’t Let Subscription Creep Steal Your Retirement Budget

According to a 2025 Bankrate analysis, the average retiree spends $564 per year on unused digital subscriptions—from magazines to streaming to fitness apps.

These micro-charges add up, especially for fixed-income households.

👉 Money Move:

  1. Review last month’s credit or debit statement

  2. Highlight anything you didn’t use in the last 60 days

  3. Cancel or pause those subscriptions

“I cut $48 a month without feeling a thing,” said Tom, 71. “That’s a dinner out with my wife.”

Use tools like Rocket Money or Truebill to track sneaky charges. And remember: your retirement budget should reflect what you actually enjoy.

😂 JOKE OF THE WEEK

What did the leaf say to autumn?

 “I’m falling for you.” 🍂😉

Saying Goodbye to Summer with Those You Love

Psychologists say seasonal rituals—especially those centered around transitions—create deeper emotional bonds than even formal holidays.

End-of-summer gatherings like:

  • Backyard BBQs

  • Evening bonfires

  • Farewell park picnics  …help us connect, reflect, and reset with those who matter most.

“We hosted a ‘goodbye summer’ picnic,” shared Inez, 72. “Everyone brought one dish and one story from the season.”

👉 Invite one friend or neighbor to share a cup of tea or a walk this week. Make it a ritual. Celebrate what was—and what’s next.

Photography Challenge: 3 Signs of Fall

Senior centers and Facebook groups nationwide are launching “Fall Focus” photo contests this week—encouraging retirees to capture the season in 3 snapshots:

  • A changing leaf

  • An animal preparing for winter

  • A cozy fall moment (pumpkins, flannel, fireside tea)

“I took a photo of a spider web with dew,” said Billie, 66. “Didn’t think much of it—until my daughter printed it and framed it!”

👉 Take 3 fall-themed photos this week and text them to someone you miss. It’s a small gesture that speaks volumes.

📸 You don’t need a fancy camera—just a curious eye.

Rest, Reflect, Rebalance: Your Fall Ritual Checklist

The fall season invites us to quiet down and look within. After summer’s movement, autumn offers stillness—a space for:

  • Journaling

  • Nature walks

  • Tea with prayer

  • Letting go of emotional clutter

“I list 3 things I’ve outgrown each fall,” said Eleanor, 70. “Then I thank them—and make room for what’s next.”

👉 Light a candle tonight and list:

  1. 3 things you’ve outgrown

  2. 1 new practice to welcome in
    This is your equinox moment—a ritual for your soul.

🧩 RIDDLE ANSWER

Answer: A clock! 🕰️

💬 Reflection:

Change doesn’t mean weakness—it means wisdom.

Let autumn be your teacher: release what no longer serves, celebrate what still blooms, and make peace with what’s falling away.

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