As the days grow shorter and autumn rolls in, the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air. Pumpkins, and the spices that often accompany them, have come to symbolize the fall…at least in every coffee shop and grocery store.
This bright orange fruit is from the family that includes zucchini, cucumbers, honeydew melons, cantaloupe, and watermelons (the word “pumpkin” comes to us from the Greek word for “large melon”).
Scientists believe pumpkins originated in North America about 9000 years ago and were an important food source for Native Americans. However, Irish immigrants popularized using pumpkins for Jack-O-Lanterns on Halloween. They found that giant pumpkins were much easier than the turnips or potatoes they had traditionally used to carve scary faces and make lanterns to place in windows or near doors to frighten away wandering evil spirits during the feast of All Hallows’ Eve – observed on October 31.
The tradition has become a Halloween staple. Every year, the US produces around 800 million pounds of pumpkins that are ripe for picking in October.
Markets could use a little “pumpkin spice latte” pick-me-up. Over September, driven by the rate-hiking extravaganza central banks around the globe have engaged in, markets continued a downward trajectory. The S&P 500 accelerated its slide, posting -9.21% for the month and down -23.87% year-to-date.
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Best & Worst Days to Fly for the Holidays – Thanksgiving & Christmas 2022
Millions of Americans are now traveling again with the pandemic largely behind us. With travel rapidly recovering, the 2022 holiday season is looking to be extremely busy, with many people flying for the first time in a few years. There are a limited number of flights available … so it is important to book as early as possible for the best prices. Additionally, some days are much better than others to fly when it comes to crowds and cost. This guide will detail how far in advance to book holiday travel as well as the best and worst days to fly for the rest of the year.
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