Discover the Joy of a Homebound Christmas
Reasons for Staying Home
For my husband and I, traveling during Christmas used to be an expensive obligation rather than a joyful celebration. When our first child was born, we realized the importance of creating a peaceful holiday environment. Instead of bouncing between multiple households and dealing with the stress of travel, we decided to stay put.
As a teenager, I had a negative experience with traveling during Christmas. The constant back-and-forth between different families and the unfamiliar extended step-family made it hard to get into the holiday spirit. This memory influenced our decision as parents to avoid similar chaos.
The Impact on Family Traditions
By staying home, we were able to establish new traditions. We no longer had to worry about fitting all our baby's needs into a travel bag. Instead, we focused on creating memories that were meaningful to our family. Our first baby's first Christmas was a peaceful one, setting a new tone for future holidays.
Setting boundaries by staying home also allowed us to give our children a dependable and safe place to land during their school breaks. They now wake up on Christmas morning in their own beds, a gift that keeps on giving.
Visiting Families on Our Terms
Breaking the news to our parents was difficult, but we knew it was the right choice. Now, we visit our families when it's more convenient for us. One tradition we started is driving to see my family just after the school year ends. The mild weather allows us to spend time outdoors, and we have the flexibility to stay longer or take detours.
Our children have also embraced this change. They don't hate Christmas like I did, and I attribute this to the stability and peace we've brought to the holiday. Buying matching Christmas pajamas has become a special family moment.
"Epic Shift: Universal's Epic Universe vs. Disney's Reign"
Walt Disney World's Dominance
For decades, Walt Disney World Resort has reigned supreme in Central Florida. With four theme parks, two water parks, and destinations like Disney Springs, it attracts a staggering number of visitors. In 2023, Magic Kingdom alone recorded over 17 million visitors. This dominance is a testament to Disney's ability to create immersive experiences and captivate audiences.However, Disney is not resting on its laurels. At D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in August, Chairman Josh D’Amaro unveiled a series of theme park expansions. These include a “land” based on Disney villains and new attractions from the “Cars” film series. Additionally, a new land at Hollywood Studios will delve into “Monsters, Inc.” These expansions are set to enhance the Disney experience and keep visitors coming back.Universal's Epic Universe: A Game Changer
Universal's Epic Universe, first announced in 2019, is set to open its doors in May 2025. Comprising five separate “worlds,” including Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter's Ministry of Magic, it promises to offer a unique and immersive experience.When Epic Universe opens, it will mark a major shift for the local tourism industry. Dennis L. Speigel, the founder of International Theme Park Services, Inc., believes that Epic Universe could attract a minimum of 6 million guests in its first year. This could potentially pull a day or more of visitors from other attractions, reshuffling how guests choose to spend their time and money.The Competition and Its Implications
The competition between Universal Studios and Walt Disney World is heating up in Central Florida. Universal has upped the ante, and with Epic Universe, it is aiming to challenge Disney's supremacy. This competition is not only good for tourists but also for the local economy.Jakob Wahl, the President of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, believes that the competition leads to better products. When both companies are striving to outdo each other, it results in continuous innovation and improvement.Walt Disney World generated $40 billion in economic impact in 2022 and over 250,000 jobs. Epic Universe, according to a study, could generate $11.5 billion in direct and indirect economic benefits. This shows the significant impact that these theme parks have on the local economy.In conclusion, the battle between Universal and Disney is not just a battle for entertainment supremacy but also a battle that will shape the economic future of Central Florida. As Epic Universe opens its doors, the local tourism industry is poised for an epic shift.Trump's Appointments and Their Global Reach
Edward Walsh: The New US Ambassador to Ireland
Donald Trump has nominated Edward Walsh to serve as the US ambassador to Ireland. Mr. Walsh is the head of the Walsh Company, a renowned construction firm based in New Jersey. In a statement announcing this decision, Trump described Walsh as a "great philanthropist in his local community" and a former chairman of a state school development board. He further added that Walsh is a champion golfer and a great asset for the ambassador of Ireland. The Walsh Company offers construction, project management, and environmental services. Mr. Walsh is also a member of the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey. This appointment comes as part of Trump's numerous nominations that need to be confirmed by the US Senate in the coming months. He will replace Claire Cronin, a Biden appointment who had previously served in Massachusetts state politics.Another notable appointment by Trump is that of Ric Grenell as the "presidential envoy for special missions". Grenell, who was Trump's first-term ambassador to Germany, will work in some of the most challenging regions around the world, including Venezuela and North Korea. This shows Trump's focus on certain global hotspots and his efforts to address international issues through these appointees.
FBI director Christopher Wray's decision to resign before Trump takes office on January 20th has also drawn attention. This premature end to his tenure makes way for Kash Patel, a Trump ally whom the president-elect has nominated to head the chief US law enforcement agency. Trump believes that Patel was instrumental in "uncovering the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax".
Trump's Choices for Top Administration Roles
Donald Trump's choices for the top roles in his administration are quite diverse. It includes TV doctor Mehmet Oz, former WWE exec Linda McMahon, Kristi Noem the South Dakota governor who had an interesting incident with shooting the family dog and pet goat. And billionaire businessman Howard Lutnick, who has concerns about the presence of multinationals in Ireland and its impact on "making America great again". Norman Ornstein, a political scientist and resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, predicted the rise of Donald Trump in 2015. He now outlines the most remarkable of the US president's cabinet nominees and explains why Ireland has a valid reason to worry about its economic future.These appointments by Trump not only have domestic implications but also have an impact on the international stage. Each appointment brings a unique perspective and set of skills, shaping the direction of the country in different ways.
Trump's approach to appointing individuals for key positions shows his determination to bring about changes and address various issues. Whether it's in the diplomatic realm or law enforcement, these appointees play a crucial role in the functioning of the government.