The US economy is currently in a state of
flux. On the one hand, there are some positive
signs, such as low unemployment and strong job
growth. On the other hand, there are also some
worrying trends, such as rising inflation and
supply chain disruptions.
The unemployment rate is at a 50-year low
of 3.8%.
The economy added 187,000 jobs in August,
slightly below expectations but still a
healthy number.
Wage growth is picking up, with average
hourly earnings rising 5.3% year-over-year
in August.
Consumer spending remains strong,
accounting for 70% of economic activity.
The bad news
Inflation is rising at its fastest pace in
40 years.
The price of goods and services has
increased 5.3% in the past year, the
highest since 1981.
Supply chain disruptions are causing
shortages of goods and driving up prices.
The Federal Reserve is expected to raise
interest rates in an effort to combat
inflation.
The outlook
The outlook for the US economy is uncertain.
The positive signs suggest that the economy is
still growing, but the negative trends could
slow growth or even lead to a recession. The
Federal Reserve is walking a tightrope, trying
to raise interest rates enough to combat
inflation without causing a recession.
It is too early to say for sure what the
future holds for the US economy. However, it
is clear that the economy is facing some
challenges that will need to be addressed.
Here are some things that individuals and
businesses can do to prepare for the economic
uncertainty:
Save money. This will give you a cushion
in case of job loss or other unexpected
expenses.
Pay down debt. This will reduce your
monthly payments and free up more money
for other expenses.
Invest in yourself. This could mean taking
courses to improve your skills or starting
a side hustle.
Be flexible. Be prepared to change your
spending habits or job if necessary.
The economic outlook is uncertain, but there
are steps that individuals and businesses can
take to prepare for whatever the future holds.
Fat Tuesday and Ash Wednesday sit side by side on the calendar, but they feel very different.
One is full of color, music, and celebration. The other is quiet, simple, and reflective.
Together, they form a powerful transition from feasting to fasting, from Carnival to Lent.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of February 17, 2026. The first day of fasting will likely fall on February 18. The month will end around March 19, 2026, depending on local moon sightings. These dates may be changed, depending on the country.
A red robin watches a Ramadan family prayer with warmth and wonder.
Ride into the rare Year of the Fire Horse with legends, dragon dances, lucky foods, and a fiery red robin salute to Lunar New Year. The Year of the Fire Horse is one of the most dramatic and culturally charged cycles in the Chinese zodiac. It appears only once every 60 years, and when it does, it ignites stories of passion, rebellion, creativity, and change.
From ancient legends to modern festivals filled with dragon dances and lanterns, the Fire Horse gallops through history
as a symbol of both risk and possibility.
Quick Fire Horse Snapshot:
Rare 60-year cycle • Fiery passion • Bold change • Artistic energy • A time to move, create, and transform.
Fire Horse-inspired lantern art at a Lunar New Year celebration.
As mid-February settles in, Presidents' Day arrives as a welcome pause in the winter season, a moment when
communities across the United States step outdoors for parades, visit historic sites, and reflect on the
leaders who shaped the nation. The holiday blends civic pride with the comfort of a long weekend, creating
a unique mix of celebration, education, and family time.
In 2026, the holiday on February 16th carries added significance as the nation enters its 250th anniversary year,
inspiring expanded programming, special exhibitions, and renewed interest in the country’s founding era.
From record spending to instant downloadable gifts for couples, pets, and families. For late shoppers, these ideas make a great solution for finding meaningful gifts.
Valentine’s Day 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet. Recent retail surveys show
that total Valentine’s spending is expected to reach record levels, with average budgets per
person climbing close to the $200 mark. Consumers aren’t just buying for romantic
partners anymore; they’re also celebrating kids, pets, friends, and themselves.
At the same time, how people express love is changing. Instead of defaulting to last‑minute
flowers and generic chocolates, many are looking for gifts that feel personal, meaningful,
and easy to deliver, especially when they’ve left things a little late. That’s where
downloadable, print‑at‑home, and digital gifts step into the spotlight.
