"Braving the cold to experience Texas Ren Fest" by: Jessica Shepard

So, I received my last birthday present for the year Thanksgiving weekend – just a little over a month from my actual birthdate in October.  My best friend gave me the chance to experience Texas Renaissance Festival’s “Celtic Christmas” weekend despite the damp cold.

"The Stock Market appears to be closing in on a big year " by: John Sample

We are closing on the end of the year and things are merry and bright from an investment standpoint.   The S&P 500 climbed back over 6800 and might make the projection of 7100.   Even if it doesn’t, the index climbed for a double-digit gain.

PSA: Is this a good year for tax-loss harvesting?

Looking to make your portfolio more tax-efficient?   Tax-loss harvesting might be worth a look.

"Reel Reviews: ‘Zootopia 2’ expands loveable animal cast" by: Jessica Shepard

have to confess that I’ve been a fan of talking animals since my first childhood Disney-animated experience.So, when “Zootopia 2” appeared in our local theater, there really was only one rational decision on what this week’s movie review column would be about.

‘License and registration please (again)’

There’s a very sick feeling in the pit of your stomach when you hear the authoritative tone of an officer when you get pulled over.    There are those who have no idea why they’re being pulled over, those who know why they are pulled over, and those who have no memory of being pulled over.

"Watching the Aggies lose, but not having to pack up" by: Mike Reddell

Friday was a tough football day for me – and many others.  First, the Bay City Blackcats lost to Davenport in a regional playoff game at Cypress-Fairbanks’ Pridgeon Stadium.  This is the team’s 13th game of the season and to come this far and lose always is a big letdown.

"Thanksgiving kicks off holiday family traditions" by: Jessica Shepard

For the first time in, like, FOREVER – we broke away from one of our family traditions.  Instead of the usual Thanksgiving turkey and variety of side dishes, we opted for barbecue last week.  While I’m not able to recall why we made the switch up, I can say that it went over well.

"The holidays are here and we all should be merry and bright" by: John Sample

We have moved into the final month of the year.  November overcame the biggest loss for that month on almost two decades.  Most of the recovery was attributed to the belief the Federal Reserve will lower interest rates again this month.

PSA: Making the most of your health savings account

If you’re looking for a smart way to save for healthcare expenses, a Health Savings Account – or HSA – might be your best bet.  To be eligible to contribute, you’ll need to be enrolled in a high-deductible health insurance plan and not on Medicare.

"Reel Review: ‘Jingle Bell Heist’ an oddly endearing rom-com from Netflix" by: Jessica Shepard

Christmas is less than a month away and I’m usually game only for my classic seasonal favorites.    However, Netflix released “Jingle Bell Heist” last week and I opted to see if it would inspire me to start putting up decorations sooner rather than later.