essay family holiday

Essays About Holidays With Family: Top 5 Examples and Prompts

Looking for an interesting topic for your next essay? Check out our top essays about holidays with family and a list of prompts for inspiration. 

Holidays with family can create memories of a lifetime – some for good reasons and some for unpleasant incidents. Aside from giving the weary a break from work, holidays also provide an opportunity for families to gather, enjoy and make new, lasting memories together. Many cultures celebrate holidays differently and have holidays unique to their cultures and countries.

If you’re writing an essay about holidays with family, here is our list of essays that will keep you glued and reflect on your holidays. 

1. A Guide To Navigating Food And Family During Holidays by Katherine Speller

2. forgiveness perfect gift for the holidays by käri knutson , 3. everything that went wrong on our family vacation (and why it was still totally worth it) by michelle weisenberg, 4. consumerism culture is dangerous to the true meaning of christmas by frank portillo, 5. holidays away from home: an ofw christmas by beatrice del rosario, anakin loewes garcia, ronald manuel laylo, 1. your most memorable holiday with family, 2. why are holidays with family important, 3. an eco-friendly family holiday, 4. planning the best holiday destination, 5. camping for the holidays, 6. holidays on the beach, 7. history of spending holidays with family, 8. avoiding covid-19 while on holidays, 9. how to ensure a stree-free family holiday, 10. budget-friendly tips for holiday travels.

“The confidence you bring — from listening to your body and being sure that you are allowed to feel however you want about your food choices — will do wonders for dealing with any criticism, comments or plate-policing from (mostly) well-meaning family members or people with their own food hang-ups.” 

Planning what to bring or cook for a family holiday dinner may come with many anxieties and pressures, especially if you have critical family members. The article presents the thoughts of a psychotherapist and eating disorder expert who advises readers on how to best respect their own dietary needs and boundaries while embracing those of their families. 

“During the holidays, people who otherwise avoid each other can be thrown together in family or social situations that force the issue. It can be painful to ask for forgiveness and risk rejection… but it’s something we sometimes have to accept.” 

There’s no better gift to present to your family on holidays than forgiveness. In this article, psychology professor Robert Enright is interviewed to talk about the process of forgiveness, why people hold back from forgiving, and what helps people let go of their anger.

“Our vacations are NEVER dull. They usually entail at least one sick child/trip to the ER and one major catastrophe. It’s gotten to the point where we simply expect these things. As our pediatrician says, ‘I wish you people would just stay home.’”

Family holidays for this author cannot be complete without a disaster, from water-submerged diabetes testers to stolen backpacks and a kid getting wounded by a knife. Yet, despite these incidents, Weisenberg still sees the beauty in their travels, with its indelible memories outweighing any unfortunate event happening in all their family holiday travels.

“Instead of buying gifts for one another, we should be focused on creating memories with each other — an immaterial gift that will last far longer than this year’s Apple Watch.”

Instead of strengthening family bonds, many look forward to holidays to get a hand at things they’ve been meaning to buy. The article laments how the culture of consumerism and materialism has engulfed us, spoiling the true meaning of family holidays, wherein making memories together should suffice. 

“OFWs sacrifice quality time with their loved ones by providing for them from afar. Each family has their own way of coping with that absence. Every shared moment, be it physically or through the aid of technology, encapsulates the spirit of Christmas for loved ones near and far.”

The article interviews overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) or those who sacrifice their time with loved ones to bring more income to their families. As Christmas has a special place in the hearts of all Filipinos, OFWs’ nostalgia is at its peak during this holiday when they cannot be home with family. OFWs in the article talk about their homesickness and how they cope at Christmas time.

Writing Prompts  on Essays About Holidays With Family

Here is our round-up of creative prompts for your essay:

Describe your most memorable holiday with your family. Put in as many elements that made this holiday profoundly impact you. Then, for a more powerful effect, make the narration as vivid as you can, from the dining table filled with delectable food to how your siblings stifled a laugh upon seeing the neon sweater your aunt gave you as a present.   

Aside from creating new memories that strengthen relationships, holidays with family can help you immerse in new cultures and experiences. Collate studies that investigate the impact of family holidays on one’s well-being. Summarize their findings and provide your analysis.

Environmentalists lambast the overindulgence that comes with holiday merry-making. Enumerate the holiday practices that are dangerous to the environment. Next, encourage families to strive for a green holiday instead of resisting the strong temptation of excess. Then, provide tips on how one can step up to reduce carbon footprint and care for Mother Nature.

Deciding which destination is best for your family will largely depend on the preference of each family member and your budget. Provide tips on how one can choose their destination and how one should prepare for this. Remind readers that they don’t have to spend too much for the “best” holiday destination. As long as families are together on this special day, that should mean more to them than anything else. 

Camping is the best way to get close to nature while creating a stronger bond with parents, siblings, and relatives. Enumerate why camping is the best way to spend your holiday with family. You may also provide a list of essential things to bring when going on a camping trip. 

Frolicking on the beach is not just the best way to beat the heat. It’s also an excellent way to spend the holidays with your family, especially if you have kids who love water activities — but who doesn’t? For this prompt, you can narrate your holiday spent on the beach with your family. You can also provide your reader with a list of the best beach spots in your country.

There are several national holidays around the world. The origin of each has its unique story that makes them all interesting and worth experiencing. Pick one or a few holiday celebrations, particularly those best spent with family. First, write about their history and how they earned the designation as holidays. Then, detail the family traditions that come with their celebration. 

While many countries are now mask-free, COVID-19 remains to infect like wildfire in some places. List a few tips on how families can enjoy the holidays and be safe from COVID-19 or any raging virus. Examples could be encouraging readers to avoid COVID-19 hotspots, bringing antigen tests, and placing alcohol bottles within easy reach. 

What makes one full of fidgets when a holiday with relatives is fast approaching? Is it the critical aunt who might notice your added weight or the thought of celebrating the holidays in a remote place without internet access? First, cite the most common sources of holiday stress. Then, offer recommendations on how to put aside the nervous energy before and during the holidays.

You may also interview some friends to know their major sources of family holiday anxieties. Then, find out how they overcome them. 

Holidays can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Write a list of tips on how one can spare extra cash for accommodation, public transport, and more. Remind your readers that holidays can be fun without pumping out a lot of cash. If you’re not into travel, you can focus on budget tips for holiday shopping.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers . If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

Yna Lim is a communications specialist currently focused on policy advocacy. In her eight years of writing, she has been exposed to a variety of topics, including cryptocurrency, web hosting, agriculture, marketing, intellectual property, data privacy and international trade. A former journalist in one of the top business papers in the Philippines, Yna is currently pursuing her master's degree in economics and business.

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Dream Family Vacation and Its Benefits Essay

Introduction.

Leisure is a very essential aspect of every individual’s life. It entails taking a break from daily activities and demands and having some fun with friends and family. Vacation is a period spent for rest and leisure-related activities such as recreation and travel, putting aside aspects of work, or any other activity that occupies our routine practices for instance studies. There are various ways through which a vacation could be spent depending on what an individual or a particular group of people deem enjoyable. Some may consider having a good time indoors while others would prefer traveling to cool entertainment places the latter option is most preferred.

Vacations go hand in hand with some spending since people tend to consider enjoying what they have not been having on normal occasions. The expenses could, for example, include traveling costs, lodging, food, and drinks as well as charges on other forms of recreation like swimming among others. This essay looks at the worth of spending on a vacation in an effort to justify expenditure with my family on the planned vocational trip.

The family vacation

I personally consider a vacation to be a healthy and important aspect to every individual irrespective of age or social status. Having been busy for most periods of the year, I have decided to spend an interesting vacation with my family (parents and siblings) for the purposes of breaking the boredom and relaxing. I have opted for a short trip, one week long, to the coastal region where entertainment facilities are adequate.

This step is driven by my belief that a family that spends time together for instance on vacations establishes strong bonding that is essential for a healthy family. Initially, I have to persuade my family members to agree on going out for the vacation since it is not an ordinary aspect and it is thus received with some form of resistance as most of them cannot clearly understand the essence of heavy spending instead of just staying at home.

According to my, the vacation is worth the spending since every person is to enjoy the trip to the maximum. Change is just like rest and the variation in family time spending will contribute a lot to each family member. The young siblings will for example have some ample time to spend together and engage in different activities that will help them appreciate each other as a result of having time to understand one another.

For our parents, the vacation will offer ample time for bonding and sharing much, in an environment that is away from home an aspect that may in one way or the other strengthen their relationship. To us, the youths, we will have an opportunity to interact with other youths and share experiences that could be beneficial for growth and development or social well being.

Vacation also benefits the family as a whole in that it makes it easier to understand one another as there is a close involvement hence allowing for the learning of what each person likes and dislikes and hence learning how to treat them in different situations to promote peace and harmony in the family. Vacation in a different place apart from home also helps individuals to be themselves and have fun because the environment is not controlled unlike when in the house, school, or work.

The vacation involving my family will help in physical and mental relaxation and reduction of stress levels that accumulate in our daily schedules at work, as well as studies for those in learning institutions and it, will also promote a healthy lifestyle that is achievable through the incorporation of work and leisure. Adventure and discovery of new places and cultural diversity is also a positive attribute that will be gained among the family members through the visit of places and meeting of new individuals. Vacation has a long-term effect on the improvement of life as it helps in refreshing one’s mind and hence enhancing an individual’s concentration and performance in different activities leading to improved productivity.

A vacation is a significant aspect that should be spent in the best way possible. It is however a concept that many individuals take lightly attaching very little importance to it. The most controversial element is the spending associated with vacations where most people do not find any justification for spending on aspects that could otherwise be avoided, to save on money for other basic activities.

This is attributed to the deterioration of the general economy which necessitates some considerable thoughts before engaging in any form of activity. All in all, I consider spending on vacation to be worthwhile as it is associated with various benefits as mentioned earlier in this essay and it only requires appropriate planning and budgeting. For this reason, I managed to persuade my family to engage in the vacation and have some time together in a relaxed mode, and the benefits we achieved surpass the spending involved to a great extent.

• Chicago (A-D)
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IvyPanda. (2023, October 31). Dream Family Vacation and Its Benefits. https://ivypanda.com/essays/dream-family-vacation-and-its-benefits/

"Dream Family Vacation and Its Benefits." IvyPanda , 31 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/dream-family-vacation-and-its-benefits/.

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IvyPanda . 2023. "Dream Family Vacation and Its Benefits." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/dream-family-vacation-and-its-benefits/.

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Are you required to write an essay about your summer vacation or your holiday break? This can be a tough assignment to tackle at first glance. But if you think about it, there are lots of interesting things that happen on your vacation that others might enjoy reading about. The key to success is to zero in on the experiences, people, or situations that made your vacation unique.

Summer vacation can be busy or lazy, funny or serious. You may have traveled with your family, worked every day, fallen in love, or coped with a difficult situation. To start your essay, you'll need to choose a topic and tone.

Family Vacation Essay Topic Ideas

If you traveled with your family, you may have some great stories to tell. After all, every family is crazy in its own way. Want some proof? How many Hollywood films have themes about family holidays or trips? Those films are popular because they enable us to glimpse inside the crazy family lives of others. Alternatively, you may have a more serious story to tell.

Consider these funny topics:

• Why I'll Never Go Back to (insert place name)
• How (insert name) Drove Me Crazy in Five Days
• Traveling to (insert city) Then and Now
• The Hazards of Traveling With a (person or thing)
• Why You Shouldn't Take a Dog to (insert place)
• I Left (insert city) But My (lost item) Stayed
• Why I Couldn't Sleep in (place name)

If your family vacation involved something more serious, think about one of these topics:

• The Love I Left Behind in (insert place)
• Saying Good-Bye to (insert person or place)
• Exploring (place's) Secrets
• An Emotional Trip

Summer Job Essay Topic Ideas

Not everyone gets to spend the summer having fun; some of us have to work for a living. If you spent your summer at a job, chances are you met a lot of interesting characters, dealt with complicated situations, or even saved the day once or twice. Here are some ideas for summer job topics:

• The Boss's Day Off
• The Customer From Hell
• What I Learned from My Customers
• Why I'll Never Go Into the ___ Business
• Six Things I Learned on the Job

How to Write the Essay

Once you've chosen your topic and your tone, think about the story you want to tell. In most cases, your essay will follow a typical story arc:

• The hook (the funny, sad, or scary sentence that grabs the reader's attention)
• The rising action (the beginning of your story)
• The climax (the most exciting moment in your story)
• The denouement (the aftermath or ending to your story)

Start by writing out the basic outline of your story. For example, "I started cleaning a guest's room and found that they'd left behind a wallet with $100 in cash. When I turned it in without taking a single dollar for myself, my boss rewarded me with a $100 gift certificate and a special award for honesty."

Next, start fleshing out the details. What was the room like? What was the guest like? What did the wallet look like and where was it left? Were you tempted to just take the money and turn in the wallet empty? How did your boss look when you handed her the wallet? How did you feel when you got your reward? How did others around you react to your honesty?

Once you've told your story in all its detail, it's time to write the hook and conclusion. What question or thought can you use to grab your reader's attention? For example: "What would you do if you found a wallet loaded with cash? That was my dilemma this summer."

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Essay on Holiday

Essay on Holiday for Students

‘Holiday’ is such a fascinating word that catches the fancy of each one, be it she or he, everybody finds it bliss to go for a holiday. We may be from any walk of life but we quite relate to this term ‘holiday’ equally. Professional people love holidays and children pray for the same. When it comes to holidays every grown-up and the working person acts like a child, desperate to relish the days of holidays. With the odds, if the holiday is cancelled, they will be sad and grumble as a child.  

Holidays are rightly known as pressure busters for the people. The normal routine of life requires a few days to relax. The holidays are always welcomed and awaited by all. Holidays give us immense peace and we cherish the memories of these well-spent days for the rest of our lives. Holidays help us in the following ways:

Mental Peace:  

We can derive mental harmony and mental calmness by staying at home and also by spending the holiday time with friends and family. 

Social Activities:  

The students in their holidays can also include the social activities that they do with their loved ones. 

Family Trip:  

We enjoy a family trip or a family excursion during these holidays.  

It is to be understood that gaining money is significant for livelihood, but relaxing the mind to make it function better is also as important. Hence, for the smooth working of life, a break is certainly required. 

Essay 1: Essay about Holiday with My Family

This time, in the winters, our small family planned for a holiday in the hills of Darjeeling. This was a much-needed break for the members of this family to remain quite busy in their daily scheduled life. They remain occupied in the strictly disciplined life of either work or study. My little sister and I study in grades 8 and 4, respectively, my father is a deputy manager in his reputed company, and my mother is a working lady and also a housewife. So, you can guess how our life will be in the strict realms of schedule. Thus, this time, my father and I decided on a short trip to the hills. 

We started our journey on the 1st of December, 2019. On the way, we played a variety of games. The view over the hills was quite pleasant to watch. When we were on the top of the summits, we looked down at our town, which seemed like a toy town; how small that was from the top! 

We clicked pretty snaps of the places, clicked pictures of us, of the local residents there, after which we went to a famous restaurant to eat our afternoon meal. We had the most delightful dumplings and noodles, which were cooked and served to us when still on steam. 

As dusk dawned on us, the jungles over the hills seemed to tell us another story of spirits and supernaturals. My sister and I were quite fantasized about this view. We preferred to keep our eyes shut till we reached our destination. It was half-past 8 when we reached the hotel where we would spend the night. The hotel staff was kind people who welcomed us with great warmth. We freshened up and went downstairs to watch their cultural program. The tribes danced to the music of one of their traditional songs, which was quite amazing for us to watch. After this, dinner was served. The dinner was quite rich and they served us in a sophisticated manner. After the tiring day, we decided to call it off and went to sleep.

The next day, we went hiking in the mountains. When we reached the peak of the mountains, it was a very delightful view. We decided to camp for the rest of the day there in the hills. The scenario and being on the lap of nature were quite peaceful and serene.   

After the trip, we came down to our town and normalized our lives. 

This trip had ushered a sense of great peace and calmness in my mind, which was to be instilled. The memories of the trip were to remain fresh in my mind like the fresh droplets on the leaves. 

Essay 2: Essay on Holiday 

Holidays have joyous feelings related to them. My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love this holiday because it comes in December, which is also my birth month. There are a lot of exciting things we do during Christmas. We start making preparations for Christmas early before the month starts. 

This year, my friends and I made snowmen with snow outside our houses. My dad put up all the lights in the interior and exterior of the house. It was looking really bright and pretty. My mom made a lot of food, cakes, and snacks, and ate with our family. My cousins from the US came over to spend time with us. 

Our whole group of family and friends ate and talked and laughed with each other, sitting cozily near the fireplace, with the Christmas tree towering over us. I had a lot of fun. It is one of my best experiences and I hope to feel it again. 

Essay on Importance of Holidays for Students 

Holidays are very important for students. The importance of the same can be listed as follows:

Students can join courses, like in extra activities like arts, crafts, pottery, candle making, and more. 

Students get to visit new places in the holidays. 

They can go out with their families and friends and can make abundant memories, which will leave an imprint on their life. 

Holidays give them time to relax with their close ones.

Students also get a lot of time to complete their homework and revise their syllabus.

How to Spend School Holidays Essay 

To spend the school holidays, students must include this list:

Educating self

De-stressing and relaxing 

Improving physical health 

Getting a new hobby

Visiting interesting and fun workshops

Learning skills, like martial arts

Being a part of a book club or a public library

My Best Holiday Experience Essay 

In writing about the ‘Best Holiday Experience’ Essay, I would say the best holiday I spent was on the sea beach; the sunny weather on the beach of goa was no less than a divine holiday. The best experience of this holiday came from sharing nature’s beauty and also staying at the best resort in Goa. 

The holiday is a day off or a few days off from the monotonous routine of the everyday schedule. Holidays are equally loved by students as well as by the working people. Holidays prove to be beneficial to us in many ways when they are spent with memories and good activities.

FAQs on Essay on Holiday

1. How important are Holidays for Working People?

 Vacation or holidays improves the blood pressure levels and also the mental health of the working people. Vacationing ensures that these people have a healthy body and also a happy heart. The working people crave to spend their days with their family and loved ones; what better can it be than going on vacations with them. Honestly, holidays keep working people from becoming monotonous robots who only work to get paid. The holidays help them feel recharged and relaxed, after which they are more receptive and active towards work.

2. What kind of Social Activities are to be done on a Holiday?

Social activities such as getting a new hobby, starting to read a new book, organizing a get-together party, playing games, talking about an interesting and informative topic, visiting a peaceful place, paying a visit to the parents or grandparents can make wonderful holidays.  

3. How would you Define a Holiday?

A holiday is such a day that is given a day off by a custom or by law on which all the normal activities, especially the business or work including the school cease to operate. Holidays are stress-busters, which act the same for all the people. 

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15 Prompts for Talking and Writing About the Holidays and the New Year

Share your traditions, weigh in on a seasonal debate, write a creative story or reflect on the year behind you while preparing for the one ahead.

By Natalie Proulx

Merry Christmas , happy Hanukkah , joyous Kwanzaa and happy New Year.

To celebrate the season, we’ve rounded up 15 prompts we’ve written over the years that you can use for writing or discussion in the classroom, among your friends or at your holiday gatherings. You might talk about your beloved family traditions, weigh in on a seasonal debate, write a holiday-themed short story or poem, or reflect on the year behind you and prepare for the one ahead.

Each of these prompts was inspired by a New York Times article, essay or image, and many of them are still open for comment for students 13 or older.

For more writing prompts and conversation-starters, see our related column .

1. What Holiday or Holidays Are You Celebrating This Month?

Hanukkah? Christmas? Kwanzaa? A combination? Something else? Use this prompt to talk or write about your own holiday celebrations — or those that other families have that you wish you could be a part of.

2. What Are Your Family Traditions?

Students who weighed in on this prompt told us about preparing 12 meals for Ukrainian Christmas, making the haft sin for Nowruz, lighting the candles on the menorah for Hanukkah and playing the game White Elephant. What rituals help you mark the holidays or reflect on the year?

3. What Foods Will Be on Your Holiday Table?

Food is an important part of holiday celebrations all over the world. What dishes will be on your table this year? You might talk about the best festive snacks and finger foods with this prompt , or take inspiration from Lunar New Year and share your favorite holiday food traditions with this prompt .

4. How Do You Decorate for the Season?

Traditional or modern? Over-the-top or more understated? Discuss the way your family decorates for the holidays — or how you wish it did — with these two prompts. How do you think you will choose to decorate your home when you are older?

5. What Role Does Religion Play in Your Holiday Celebrations?

Several of the winter holidays have religious roots. In “ Saying Goodbye to Hanukkah ,” a writer asks whether you can celebrate traditionally religious holidays without religion. What do you think? Read the essay and then use this prompt to talk or write about how much religion is a part of your life and your holiday celebrations.

6. Do You Look Forward to Family Get-Togethers This Time of Year?

The approaching holidays often mean spending more time with family members, who come from near and far. Who do you look forward to seeing this time of year? Do you enjoy large family get-togethers or do you find them overwhelming? Use this prompt to talk or write about your most memorable family gathering.

7. What Makes a Great Gift?

What are you giving this holiday season? What are you hoping to get, or what have you already received? Use this prompt to share your gift-giving dos and don’ts, talk about the best and worst gifts you’ve gotten and weigh in on the adage “It’s better to give than to receive.”

Or, use this prompt to debate the commercialization of Christmas and whether experiences make better gifts than physical items do.

8. Should Phones Ever Be a Part of Family or Holiday Gatherings?

Now it’s time for a holiday debate: Are phones and other electronics welcome at your family or holiday gatherings? Do you think they should be? Can they ever be helpful? Or are they a distraction from spending quality time with your loved ones? Discuss these questions and others with our related prompt .

9. What Will You Be Watching, Listening To and Wearing This Season?

“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”? Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You”? An ugly Christmas sweater, perhaps? Use these prompts to debate the best and worst holiday films , share what’s on your seasonal playlist and plan your special holiday outfit .

10. What Can You Do for Others This Year?

This year, Nov. 29 was #GivingTuesday on social media, a day when you were invited to take a break from buying things, and, instead, show generosity to others. The Giving Tuesday website suggests thinking about it this way:

Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give.

What do you have to give? What people, issues or causes are important to you? What can you do this holiday season to give back? Tell us here , and then get more inspiration from the Opinion section’s Holiday Giving Guide .

11. What Seasonal Story Could These Images Tell?

Related Picture Prompt

A magical gift. A sledding adventure. A family gathering. What story could these images from around The Times tell? Choose one or more of the holiday- and winter-themed picture prompts from the slide show above, and then write a creative short story, poem or memoir inspired by them.

Another option? Use one of these images to play Exquisite Corpse with your friends, family or classmates: One person starts by writing or saying aloud the first line of a story based on the image, and then another person adds on, and so on.

12. What Were the Best and Worst Things About 2022 for You?

The Times’s art and culture critics often end the year by compiling a series of “best of” lists — the best TV shows , movies , art , songs , podcasts , books , comedy , poetry , theater , dance performances and more .

What would be on your “best of the year” list? What would be on your “worst of the year” list? What art or pop culture did you love or loathe? What news, sporting events or viral social media moments did you think were great or terrible? What were the most notable aspects of your personal, family or academic life? Use this prompt to help you make your “best” and “worst” lists and then compare them to those of other students.

13. What Would You Pick as Word of the Year?

Every year the Oxford English Dictionary selects a “word of the year” that is meant “to reflect the ethos, mood or preoccupations” of the previous year. For 2022, the publisher chose “goblin mode.” What do you think of this choice? What is one word or phrase that you think sums up this year? Weigh in on our related prompt .

14. What Was the Best Day of Your Year?

When you look back on the past year, what would you say was your most memorable day? Were you celebrating a big life event or achievement, like getting your license? Or were you doing something more mundane — perhaps talking to a friend on the phone, making a meal for your family or taking a long walk alone? What made that day so special to you?

Even though this prompt was written in 2021, you can still use the article and questions to take some time to appreciate your favorite day of this past year.

15. Do You Make New Year’s Resolutions?

As one year ends and another begins, will you take stock of all that you have (or haven’t) accomplished and make resolutions for the year ahead? Or, like other Gen Zers, according to this article , do you set goals all year round? Use this prompt to talk or write about the various goals or self-improvements you are currently working toward, as well as those you’d like to focus on in the New Year.

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public and may appear in print.

Find more Student Opinion questions here. Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate these prompts into your classroom.

Natalie Proulx joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2017 after working as an English language arts teacher and curriculum writer. More about Natalie Proulx

My last holiday

Learn how to write about your last holiday.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

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My last holiday was a five-day trip to Prague in the Czech Republic. I know Prague well because I lived there when I was at university, more than ten years ago.

Instead of staying in a hotel, I stayed with one of my old friends. It was so much fun, and a little bit like my old life. I wanted to do all the same things I did in my university days, so I visited the university. It has changed a lot and looks more modern. I also went to the supermarket near my old house. I loved seeing all the different foods. I was really happy to find my favourite cheese and chocolate biscuits but they were a bit more expensive than I remember!

We did some touristy things too. We walked up beautiful Petrin Hill and around the castle. The views of the city are amazing up there. We walked across the historic Charles Bridge. My friend's flat is very near the TV Tower so we saw the famous baby statues climbing up it. Those things haven't changed, of course.

1. Try to make your writing interesting for the reader. To do this, you can make it personal with your own memories and experiences.

2. Use adjectives to add detail to your descriptions.

3. Write clear and simple sentences and organise your ideas in short paragraphs. Give each paragraph a different topic.

4. Use so, but, and, because and other linking words.

Where was your last holiday?

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I want you to know that I am very happy and enjoying my vacation quite a bit. The destination on this vacation has been the Colombian Caribbean coast, We arrived two days ago, this is a very nice experience. Yesterday I discovered the window to the world that is located in Barranquilla, as well as the boardwalk, they are very warm places but above all very visited, as the afternoon fell I went to visit some of my husband's brothers. Tomorrow we will get up very early to travel a few kilometers and be able to visit Cabo de la Vela, in La Guajira, we will leave at 6 am, because we must be in Uribia Guajira at 3 pm, there the tour guide will be waiting for us, who will be the one in charge of directing this adventure. I also had the opportunity to visit Cartagena de Indias and its beautiful beaches, I really liked getting to know the beach, the sea and the people who live there, But what I liked most was being able to visit Cabo de la Vela and learn a little about the reality of the Wayuu culture, being able to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and sunsets that this beautiful place offers.

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My last was holiday three-week trip to Fez in Morocco. Fez it’s my hometown so I know it well because I lived there for 26 years. I went to visit my family there and I stayed at home, every day I was invited by my sisters and brothers, they made me delicious dishes and we had a good time together. I’ve been seeing my friends every day in the café, we’ve been seeing football matches and we’ve been talking about different topics. In this holiday I made many things important for me, I had driving courses to be confident when I’m going to buy a car, in the same time I had English courses.  

My last holiday was a three-day trip to Thua Thien Hue in Vietnam. I always want to go there, so in the summer of last year, I decided to take a trip to Hue with my family.

We booked a small hostel near Hue Walking Road. We stayed in a twin room, which was clean and had full amenities. The owner was very friendly; he showed us good restaurants, attractions, and how to deal with sellers in the market. We tried local foods such as Bun Bo Hue, Banh Xeo, Banh Bot Loc, etc. The food in Hue is cheap and amazing; I thought that I could eat it all day!

We did some touristy things too. We visited Hue Capital and had a chance to learn more about Vietnam's history. The architecture is very majestic and beautiful. We also went to Thien Mu Pagoda. It is one of the most sacred temples in Vietnam, so we prayed for health and happiness and wished everyone good luck. In the evening, we walked across the historic Trang Tien Bridge. It was so beautiful at night; there were a lot of people walking there. 

It was three amazing days. I felt so relaxed and hope to visit more places in Vietnam.

My last holiday was a two-day trip to Baguio in the Philippines. I had lived there before for five months. So I decided to go back for just a visit on my holiday. Unfortunately, there was heavily raining as we got off the bus. Otherwise, getting a taxi was super hard, and we were waiting for around an hour. Fortunately, I got home safely and I made so much fun with my friends. I visited the old places that I often did because it made me happy and refresh. In conclusion, I had so much fun spending my last holiday in Baguio.

I remember last year when I went with friend to the beach in summer. My Lastsummer holidays was 2days and 3 nights trip to Ngwe Saung Beach in Myanamr . Ngwe Saung, is a beach resort located 48 km west of Pathein, Ayeyarwady Region, Myanmar. In 2014, the town of Ngwesaung had 10,732 people.The beach is 5hours drive with no traffic away from the principal city of Yangon. Ngwe Saung is well know for An unspoilt 15 kilometres stretch of silvery sand and modern amenities have made Ngwe Saung a popular destination for less budget conscious tourists from Lower Myanmar. I booked for our stay at a hotel near the beach, name was "Grand Paradise Hotel ". My friend and i prepared everything we needed on our trip as light food and soft drinks to have on the way to the hotel. And also we prepared necessary clothing for the sea, sun cream and some essential medicines. After 5hours of driving we arrived the hotel at 12PM afternoon and went to our rooms to rest change clothes and take all what we need to go to the beach. This Hotel is near the beach,all services was good and room are cleaned, wide and nice. We put our bags on the table and went to swim in the sea and then went out for lunch that my friend ordered from a fish restaurant . The Crab ,Lobster and fish was fresh and tasty and we enjoyed our meal very much. After lunch we sat under the canopy enjoying the sea view, refreshing breaths ,listening to music and playing fun games. OH really nice Ngwe Saung beach Myanamr.

My last holiday was far away in time in different reasons. We were at black sea coast on September so there where not so much other people. We was drinking a wine that was cheap there and going some excursions

My last holiday. Last summer, in particular on the last weekend of June, I decided to visit Granada, an amazing city in Spain. I visited Granada for the second time with my family, my wife, and two daughters. I was so happy because I visited Granada sights, especially Alhambra Palace, and Civilization Museum. We arrived at the hotel by bus at 11 a.m. The hotel was wonderful and clean, and the food they offer was delicious. My family really liked the traditional typical dishes of Granada, in particular the dish named Baella. During the holiday, I met some of my Spanish colleagues and they invited us to visit their house which is located in a nice village in the city suburb. Really, I liked this place for the large landscape, calmness, and the kind people who live in. On the fifth day of our holiday, we walked around the city and saw the old city which has been built above the mountain. So, you can see the whole city from above it. Despite the enjoyment that we have got, the negative thing about that holiday was that we spent so much money and also many friends need to buy some things from there, so I bought some souvenirs and I hope that I can keep one for myself to remind of that divine place. By and large, this holiday was great and unforgettable thanks to my Spanish friend, Gaspar, who provided me with a Guidebook which makes my trip easy and coy.

My last holiday was four days on São Miguel dos Milagres with my family. We stay on the beach house of my grandpa. There is a pool, and four rooms in that. There we go to the beach, to some interesting restaurants, to a beach clube and to an ice cream shop. I love that travel and i'd love go back to São Miguel dos Milagres.

On the first weekend in March, we took an amazing trip to Barcelona. We went by train from Atocha station and the journey lasted two and a half hours.

When we arrived at the historic Barcelona Sants station, we took the metro to Plaza de Tetuan, which is where we had the apartment. We left our baggage and went to visit the city centre, Las Ramblas, Plaza Catalunya, La Boqueria Market, Paseo de Gracia, etc. On Sunday, we saw the beautiful Sagrada Familia which is my favourite landmark. Later, we went to the incredible Nou Camp stadium to see the Barça game against Valencia. After the game we visited the official store and did some shopping but everything was very expensive. On Monday, before returning to Madrid we went back to the Nou Camp to take a guided tour of the trophy room, changing rooms, benches, and the VIP box.

At the end, we went to the apartment to take the suitcases and so, we took the metro to the Sants station where we boarded the high speed train back to Madrid.

I go to Thailand for a camping holiday, It was fun I go caving on the first day, I see many bets are sleeping on top of the cave.(no time to finish)

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Essay on Holiday for Students and Children

500+ words essay on holiday.

Holidays are very important parts of everyone’s life, be it a student or a working person. Everyone deserves to take a break from the monotony to rejuvenate and maintain their health. Holidays help us do exactly that.

Other than that, a holiday allows us to complete all our pending work. Nowhere will you find a person who dislikes holidays. From a school going toddler to your house help, everyone looks forward to holidays and see them as a great opportunity to relax and enjoy .

Importance of Holidays for Students

When one thinks about what a holiday means for students, we notice how important it is for the kids. It is a time when they finally get the chance to take a break from studies and pursue their hobbies.

They can join courses which give them special training to specialize in it. They can get expert in arts, craft, pottery, candle making and more. Furthermore, they also make new friends there who have the same interests.

In addition, students get to visit new places on holiday. Like during summer or winter holidays , they go with their families to different cities and countries. Through holidays, they get new experiences and memories which they remember for a lifetime.

Furthermore, it also gives them time to relax with their families. Other cousins also visit each other’s places and spend time there. They play games and go out with each other. Moreover, students also get plenty of time to complete their homework and revise the syllabus.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Importance of Holidays for Working People

Holidays for working people are somewhat similar to what they mean for students. In fact, they carry more importance to them than students. Though they are adults, they also yearn for the holidays. Why so? They do not get as many holidays as students do.

Most importantly, the holiday no matter how little it gives them a great chance to relax. More so because they work tirelessly for so many hours a day without a break. Some even work when they get home. This makes their schedule very hectic and gives them little time to rest. A holiday fills the gap for this rest.

Read 500 Words Essay on Summer Vacation

Similarly, due to such a hectic schedule working people get less time to spend with their family. They get distanced from them. Holidays are the perfect chance to strengthen their bonds and make amends.

In other words, a working person needs holidays for the smooth functioning of life. Without holidays they will face pressure and won’t be able to be productive when they work non-stop. After all, when a person earns, they must spend it on something recreational from time to time so they also remain happy and work happily.

Thus, we see how holidays play an important role in maintaining a great balance between our work and play. We must try to make the most of the holidays and spend them wisely so we do not waste time. Never waste a holiday as they are very few in number where you can actually, rest or utilize it properly.

Q.1 What importance does a holiday hold?

A.2 A holiday is one of the most important parts of anyone’s life. It brings joy and comfort to everyone. Everyone loves holidays as they give them time to relax and enjoy themselves with their families.

Q.2 How can one spend their holidays?

A.2 There are many ways to spend a holiday. You can pursue your hobby and take professional classes to master the art. Furthermore, you may also travel the world and discover new places and experiences to get more exposure.

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Essay on Celebrating Christmas With Family

Students are often asked to write an essay on Celebrating Christmas With Family in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Celebrating Christmas With Family

The joy of christmas.

Christmas is a time filled with joy and laughter, especially when spent with family. It’s a special day where loved ones gather to share happiness and make memories. Everyone wakes up excited to see what Santa has left under the tree.

Family Traditions

Every family has their own Christmas traditions. Some bake cookies, while others sing carols or watch holiday movies together. These moments create a sense of belonging and are cherished for years to come.

Gift-Giving and Sharing

Exchanging gifts is a big part of Christmas. It’s not about the price but the thought that counts. Sharing presents is a way to show love and care for each other.

Feast and Fun

Families often enjoy a big meal on Christmas. The table is full of tasty dishes, and everyone shares stories and jokes. The day ends with full bellies and warm hearts, looking forward to next year’s celebration.

250 Words Essay on Celebrating Christmas With Family

Christmas joy with family.

Christmas is a time when families come together to share joy and love. It’s a special day when we celebrate with our loved ones and create memories that last a lifetime. During Christmas, we take a break from our daily routines to enjoy the company of our family.

Decorating the Christmas Tree

One of the most exciting parts of Christmas is decorating the tree. Families often pick out a tree together and then spend time hanging ornaments, lights, and tinsel. Each ornament can tell a story, like the one from a family trip or a baby’s first Christmas. The tree becomes a sparkling centerpiece of the home.

Gift-Giving

Exchanging gifts is a Christmas tradition. Children look forward to presents from Santa Claus, and everyone enjoys the surprise of unwrapping a gift. It’s not about how much we spend, but the thought we put into finding something special for our family members.

Christmas Dinner

A big part of Christmas is the delicious dinner shared with family. Many families have traditional foods they eat every year, like turkey or pie. Sitting around the table, passing dishes to one another, and sharing stories is a warm way to celebrate.

Spreading Love

Christmas is not just about receiving; it’s also about giving. Families often do kind things for others, like donating to those in need or visiting people who might be alone during the holidays. It’s a time to spread love and kindness.

Celebrating Christmas with family is about being together, sharing traditions, and making each other happy. It’s a magical time that reminds us of the importance of family and love.

500 Words Essay on Celebrating Christmas With Family

Christmas is a time filled with joy and warmth, especially when celebrated with family. It’s a festival that brings everyone together, sharing love and happiness. The cold outside makes the warmth inside even more special as families gather to spend time with each other. The joy of Christmas is not just in the presents we give or receive but in the precious moments we share with our loved ones.

Decorating the Home

One of the most exciting parts about Christmas is decorating the house. Families often decorate their homes with bright lights, shiny ornaments, and a beautiful Christmas tree. Children love to help hang decorations and place the star on top of the tree. The house feels magical with all the glitter and twinkling lights. The smell of fresh pine from the Christmas tree fills the air, making everything feel even more like Christmas.

Preparing the Feast

Food is an important part of any celebration, and Christmas is no exception. Families come together to cook a big meal. The kitchen is busy with the sounds and smells of cooking. Everyone has a job, whether it’s peeling potatoes, stirring the gravy, or setting the table. The feast often includes favorite dishes that have been passed down through generations. Sitting down to eat together is a way to share love and stories, making the meal about more than just food.

Exchanging Gifts

Giving and getting gifts is a highlight of Christmas. Weeks before, children and adults alike start thinking about what to give their family members. The excitement builds up as presents are wrapped and placed under the tree. On Christmas morning, everyone gathers to open their gifts. The room is filled with laughter and surprise as each person sees what they have been given. It’s not the price of the gift that matters, but the thought behind it.

Playing Games and Singing Songs

Christmas is a perfect time for fun and games. Families often play board games, card games, or other fun activities that everyone can enjoy. Singing Christmas carols is another way to have fun together. Some families go caroling around their neighborhood to spread the joy of the season. These activities bring everyone closer and create memories that last a lifetime.

Remembering the Meaning of Christmas

Amidst all the fun and celebration, it’s important to remember the meaning of Christmas. It’s a time to be thankful for what we have and to think of others who might not be as fortunate. Many families take time to give back by donating to charities or helping those in need. This spirit of giving is what Christmas is truly about.

In conclusion, celebrating Christmas with family is about creating memories that will be cherished forever. It’s a time for joy, love, and togetherness. Whether it’s through decorating the house, preparing a meal, exchanging gifts, or playing games, each activity is a chance to bond with family members and celebrate the festive spirit. Most importantly, it’s a time to remember the true essence of Christmas and spread kindness and goodwill to everyone around us.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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Essay on My Family

List of essays on my family, essay on my family – short essay for kids in english (essay 1 – 250 words), essay on my family – for children (essay 2 – 300 words), essay on my family – paragraph (essay 3 – 400 words), essay on my family –topics (essay 4 – 500 words), essay on my family (essay 5 – 500 words), essay on my family – why i love my family (essay 6 – 500 words), essay on my family – for school students (class 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 standard) (essay 7 – 500 words), essay on my family (essay 8 – 750 words), essay on my family – long essay (essay 9 – 1000 words).

A family is one of the greatest gift god has given to all living creatures on the earth including humans. It is a privilege to have a happy family as not everyone in the world has it.

The joy of living with your parents, fighting with your siblings over petty can just make you smile the moment you think of it. In order to inculcate the values of a family in the students, we have composed some short essays for students.

These essays are suited for students of all ages and classes. Not only these essays shall give an insight on how a family should be but shall also enrich the students with the moral values of a family.

Audience: The below given essays are exclusively written for kids, children and school students.

Family is important to every one of us and we all love our family. Wherever we go in this world and whatever we may achieve, our heart and soul will always be in our home because it is where our beautiful family is. Nothing in this world can be stronger than the bonding of the blood . The members of the same family may have differences of opinions, may quarrel often for silly things but in spite of all these it is our family that supports us during our ups and downs.

As the saying goes, “ Family is the best thing you could ever wish for. They are there for you during the ups and downs and love you no matter what”.

Contrary to this saying, we cannot choose our family as we choose our friends. But I can say that I’m blessed with a wonderful family. My family is very small with four members – my mother, my father, my elder sister and me. My family is a middle class family and my father is officially the bread winner of our family. My mother supports him financially by taking tuitions for school children.

We do not have much money or wealth but what my family has in abundance is love for each other which cannot be replaced by anything else in this world. My father and my mother are the role models to my sister and me. They struggle a lot to give us a better life. More than anything they have taught us discipline and morals of life which is helping us to lead our lives in a righteous path even today.

I cannot ask anything more to God since he has already showered me with my family which I treasure the most every second and will safeguard even in the future.

The family is a valuable god gift which plays a most crucial role in every individual’s life. I love my family very much because all of my family members stand in my good as well as bad times. From moral teachings to love and support, my family has always helped me without any demand. There is no doubt that we experience our biggest triumphs when we really connect to them.

My family is like a strong pillar for me, on which I can rely blindly anytime I require support. From my family, I have learned the social graces of loyalty & cooperation.

My family consists of my grandfather, my grandmother, my mother, my father, two young sisters and myself. My grandparents are the pillars of my family and my grandfather is the head of my family. He is the one whose decision relating to any matter is final and all of us do respect it.

Right from my childhood, my family members have prepared me for the challenges that I’ll face in the years ahead. In addition to this, all of my family members help and serve each other at times of need. These qualities that I have learnt from my family has helped me to shape my adult life in a right manner.

I am really very attached to my grandfather. He holds an excellent life experience because he has already faced so many ups and downs. My Grandfather has helped me to build my perception & vision towards society.

My family has always been there to motivate and encourage me to overcome all difficulties in life and achieve success. The role of every member in my family is unique and important in their own way. I thank God that I have grown up in a family full of love and discipline. My family values will definitely help me in becoming a better person.

A person without family and its love never becomes completely happy in his/her life. I am complete and happy with my family that includes five members. My family is a group of five including me, father, mother, brother, and sister. Family bonding is a unique type of love that gives you every lesson needed to live a harmonious life.

Growing under the supervision of a caring and loving family will increase our social values and overall well-being. Each member of my family carries out equal responsibility in sculpting the strong bonding needed for a better future and develop moral importance in each other.

My father owns a successful business of office stationery store. He uses the money to cover all our expenses and give a better lifestyle to the family. He works hard day and night to get us better education, food, home, etc. He hides all his tiredness when he comes home after a long day to spend quality time with us.

My mother is a talented homemaker who also does a part-time tailoring at home. She does all her duties with at most interest, from taking care of us to all the household chores and finds time to pursue her passion as well. She is a multi-tasker and does all the tasks from helping us in our studies to preparing delicious healthy foods to sculpt us into a better human being.

My brother is an engineering graduate and does a job in a well-known company. He is my best well-wisher and helps me in all ups and downs. My sister is also an engineering graduate and an employee in an IT company. She always finds time to help me with all my difficulties and she is my secret keeper too.

My family is a lifeline to whom I can run to, whatever may be the situation I am facing. My family guides me to be a good person and help me in nurturing good values. We, humans, are animals that live together spreading love and care for each other, and this togetherness is called family. The absence of such a divine bonding make us equal to animals.

Family value and growing in such a caring surrounding helps me to pass all the struggles and hardships that I face in my daily life. Whatever be the situation we are facing, our family will never leave us alone. My family is a blessing for me and I value everyone in my family with equal respect and love.

Most of the people in the world are blessed with having a family. A family, with whom you can share all your joys and sorrows, who is there to guide you through your growing years, who stands by you in the toughest of the situations. I too am blessed to have such a family.

My family is one the most bizarre family in the world. We are four people, my mother, my father, my younger brother and me. While my father is the one who does work for a living, it is my mother who is the boss of the house. My father is a humble person. He is an officer in a government department. My mother is a housewife. It is our mother who takes care of our studies as our father is often busy with his official assignments and even travels for days together. We just miss him when he is not at home.

He never scolds us. But, our mother is just the opposite. She wants us to remain disciplined and we often get scolded by her. However, our father comes to our rescue most of the times. My brother, still in school is the one with whom I love to spend my time the most. Not because I love to play with him, but because, being the elder sister, I enjoy instructing him and showing him who is more powerful at home. He, at a time, seems so helpless when our mother says to obey his sister. I just love that moment. But not all days are the same. I hate having to study all along while he gets to play more than me.

The Atmosphere in my Family:

We largely have a peaceful atmosphere at home. After school, our time is spent on studying, playing and watching television, which of course our mother does not like. Unlike other couples, my mother and father seldom have a fight. In fact, as soon we see an argument brewing up, one of them just withdraws and it is just rare to see a heated conversation between them. This is what I like the most about them as I feel that my parents are so cool. It is only me and brother who love to fight with each other.

However, we know that behind those fights, it is actually our love for each other which binds us together. I just enjoy being at home spending time with my parents and my brother. I just feel how bad it would be when tomorrow I and my brother shall move on for our professional lives and we shall not be able to spend much time together. However, it is the memories of today which shall be with me forever and will bring a smile on my face anytime when I feel low.

The Importance of a Family:

A family is said to be the first school of a child. It is from here you start to learn how to speak, walk and interact with the world. It is important to value the importance of a family in one’s life. At times, people feel that they are grown-ups and that their parent’s advice does not matter anymore, but that is not true. It is the elders of the family who at any given of time would know the world better than us and we should all respect our family members and love our siblings as well. It is the family who builds our character and we should feel fortunate to have a family around us.

Introduction

My family values are what I take so dear to my heart because they have made me what I am today and I plan on passing these great values to my children in future. Every family has those things, acts and values that they hold in high esteem and they cherish so much. These vales have become a part of them: most times, it is what distinguishes the traits in each family and in some ways it makes or mars the future of the family members. Same applies to my family, we have some set values that has become a part of us and it has made my life a lot better because I have become a better person who is not only valuable to himself but also to the society at large. I will be sharing some of these values with you.

My Family Values:

Some of my family values include:

1. Honesty:

This is a principle that is highly protected in my family. My dad has this saying that, “honesty is the best policy.” Ever since I was little, my family has taught me how to be honest and the benefits that lie within. Sometimes, my parents even test us in ways we were not expecting and a reward is given to the person that comes out honest. This is one of my family values that I cherish so much and I am proud that it is what my family hold in high esteem.

2. Kindness to Others:

This is not a common trait to all. My mom has this belief that if the world and everybody in it shows love and kindness to one another, there will be no hatred and wars will be eradicated. This is a family value that we cherish so much. I learnt to show love to everybody. Even when we did not have much, my parents will still give to those who are needy. My dad says that the world is like a river, we would eventually flow into one another later and you do not know the future, the person you helped today might eventually be of help to you tomorrow.

3. Education:

This is a value that has been passed from generation to generation in my family. My dad would say that education is the best legacy you can give to a child. My family does everything in their capacity for you to get a sound and benefitting education. The acquisition of knowledge is also quite important. All of us try to gain more and more knowledge because we all have a family slogan that says “knowledge is power and that power makes me a hero.”

4. Dress and Appearance:

This is a religious value we cherish in my family. My dad would say that you are addressed the way you dress. I do not want to be address wrongly and give out a wrong impression. So, our appearance really matter a lot to us and the way we dress.

Conclusion:

Every family has one thing or the other that they hold in high esteem and tend to pass on from generation to generation. This is what makes a family a united sect not because we are related by blood but because of we share the same values.

Introduction:

Why I love my family is a question that has been floating through my mind for a very long time because no matter how hard I try to pin out a reason why I love them, I just can’t find one. This can be due to fact that they mean the whole world to me and I will do anything for them. I love my family a lot and I would like to share some of the reasons why I love my family and will never trade them for anything.

Why I Love My Family:

I have a family that consists of 6 people: my father, my mother and four children which includes me. For you to understand why I love my family I will tell you a little about each of them and why I love them so much.

My father is the best father in the world: well, that’s what I say. He is a business manager. I look up to my father a lot because I will like to take a lot of his behaviours and make it mine. He taught me to be contented with whatever I have. We did not have much when I was growing up; my dad lost his job and still did not allow anything of the pressure change how he behaved to us at home. He is caring, gentle, accommodating and disciplined.

My mum is the best cook in the world. I do not know where I would be today without my mum. I owe her a lot. She is a teacher by profession and this fascinates me a lot because not only is she inculcating knowledge in the young minds of tomorrow, she is also building the future of our society at large. I want to be like my mum. I remember those times when she had to sacrifice when the most precious of her things just to make me happy. She is loving, caring, understanding, accommodating. In fact, she is everything you can ever wish for in a mother.

My elder sisters are the best. Although they can be frustrating sometimes but that is mostly because of my stubbornness. They pretend they do not really care but deep inside they do. The things they do even subconsciously say otherwise. I remember a day in elementary school, I was being bullied a boy in class. On this particular day, he hit me. Unknowing to me, my sister heard about it and she beat the boy and made him apologise to me, I felt so happy that day because I had someone who had my back.

My brother is one of the best gifts I have received. He is the last child and this gives him an opportunity to be annoying if you know what I mean. He is joyful and always ready to heed correction. There was this day, I heard him bragging to his friends about how awesome I am, and I was the happiest that day.

We all have one reason or the other on why we love our family. I love mine because they are the best gift I could ever ask for and the fact that they have been there for me through the good, bad and funny times.

Importance of family is something that is greatly overlooked and underrated in the world we live in today. The definition that the family had about one hundred years before now was very clear. Back then, a family was believed to be a unit that consisted of the father that was in charge of the finances of the family, a mother whose primary duty was to look after the home and take care of the children and then there were the children. Largely based on the region you are from, a family can also include members of the extended family like aunts, uncles and grandparents. This type of family system is referred to as joint family.

Family Importance:

A family that is important is one that is very strong. If a family is going to be very strong, there is a need for the bond between them to be very strong. Bonds that help in keeping the members of a family with each other are relationships. If there are very strong relationships among all the members of a family, there is going to be stronger commitment between all of them and the family as a unit will be very important.

Better communication is also a result of family relationships that are very strong. If all the family members can take time out to talk and know each other well, the bond between them is bound to be very strong. Even if the conversations are about big things or small things, it does not really matter. The most important thing is that all family members stay connected to one another. It is very important that they all list to each other and understand every member.

How to make Family Bonds Very Strong:

We have various things that can help our family bond to improve.

A few of them include:

1. Love: love is the most important thing we need for our bonds as a family to improve. When we love the members in our family, we will also be able to know all about privacy, intimacy, caring, belonging and sharing. When there is love in a family, the family will prosper.

2. Loyalty: loyalty is something that comes as a result of love. Family members should stay devoted to each other. It is important that we are able to count on our family to have our back anytime we are facing problems.

The importance of family can never be overstated even though we live in a different time now and our attitudes to relationships, marriage and what a family should be has changed. The family is something that we need to help share our problems and be there for us anytime we have issues. A lot of the things that were not acceptable in the past and we now see as normal. Even with all the changes that the society has effected on our family system, the family still remains the major foundation of our society and this will remain the same.

My family is the best gift I have got. A family can be simply said to mean a social group of different people in our society that includes one or more parents and also their children. In a family, every member of the family commits to other members of the family in a mutual relationship. A family is a very important unit and the smallest unit in the society. A family whether a big one or a small one is of very great importance and use to all of its members and is believed to be the unit of our society that is strongest because the society is formed from the coming together and culmination of various families.

In many cultures, the family serves a child’s first school where the child learns all about their traditions and cultures more importantly learn about all the rudimentary values in life. A family is very essential in the teaching of healthy habits and good manners to all the members of the family. It gives the members of the family the opportunity to become people with better character in our society. I feel very lucky to be born into a small and lovely family; I learnt a lot of things from my family.

I am from a middle class and average family with six members (my father, my mother, my grandmother, my grandfather, my younger brother and me). My grandfather is the head of the family and we all respect and listen to him. He is really wise and tries to advise each and every one of us using his many life experiences. He has been involved in many interesting and adventurous activities that he tells me about all the time. Most of the time, he has the final say on all of our family issues and he does his best to make all his decisions impartial.

Any time we are eating today as a family, he sits at the top of the table; we all have designated seats at the dining table. When my brother and I are available, my grandfather teaches us about our traditions and cultures. My grandfather is very friendly and has a cool and great personality and tries to talk nicely and calmly to everyone passing across his message without being rude. He helps my brother and sometimes me with our assignments. He majorly teaches us about all of the tools we need to be successful in life including punctuality, discipline, moral, cleanliness, continuity, honesty, hard work and trustworthiness.

My lovely grandmother is one of the nicest people I know, she tells my brother and I lovely stories every night. My father is a civil engineer and he is very hardworking, sincere and punctual. He is the breadwinner of the family and does his best to provide for every member of the family even if that means he has to work extra hours. My mother is very sweet and takes care of every member of the family even though she works as an accountant at a firm. She wakes up very early in the morning to make preparations for the day. My brother is a funny and jovial person that enjoys sporting activities and I love him so much.

Sometimes I wish my cousins, uncles and aunts lived with us, I love having them around. There are a lot of advantages and disadvantages of having everyone around. I have highlighted some below.

Some advantages are:

1. It gives a better routine of living that can contribute to a proper growth.

2. Having a joint family helps in following the numerous principles of an equitable economy and helps teach discipline and respect. It also teaches us how to share the burden of other family members.

3. There is the understanding of having to adjust to the needs of other family members.

4. The children in a large family get to grow up in a happy environment because they have children of their age around that they can play with.

5. All the members of a joint family are usually very disciplined and responsible as everyone has to follow the instructions of the family head.

Some of the disadvantages include:

1. There is always the chance of a rift or fight between the family members because of the possible imbalance of feelings of oneness, brotherly love and feeling of generosity.

2. There is a chance of the members of the family that earn very high looking down on members of the family that do not.

The concept of family is important in India for every individual. Family defines an individual background in terms of social relations and growth. Families influence the lives of individuals from childhood to adulthood especially in decisions concerning life milestones like marriage and career paths. Indian families live together for up to four generations under one roof and they manage to maintain lose family relations compared to other families across the globe. Indian families tend to stick to their cultural practices as a family and they maintain religious practices that cut across the family. Elders in Indian families are respected by the members of the family and their opinions are considered during decision making.

What Family Really Means :

Basic knowledge defines a family as a group of people who share genetic and legal bonds. However, the concept of family means a lot more for other people than just the bond and it incorporates the concepts of culture and religion. In India, the concept of family differs from what the rest of the world perceives as family.

Families in India go beyond nuclear and extend to wider circles, whereby the extended family lives together and are closely related. The relationships in the family are strong such that cousins are considered siblings and aunts and uncles are considered parents. Family also means the unconditional love among the members of the family whereby there is support in terms of finances and emotions.

Why the Family is so important:

The family plays a central role in lives of individuals in teaching of moral values. Parents, aunts, uncles and grandparents have been known to teach the children on morality and disciplinary issue s in most cultures. Both spiritual and moral values are instilled through family. Family give a sense of belonging to individuals because they are over by the family and supported at all times.

A family will always support its members with needs including financial and emotional needs. In a family, there has been established levels of satisfaction and happiness from the joy of being together. Families also helping community development through contributions and participating in activities in the community. The family is important in the society in maintaining order, discipline and peace.

I come from a big family. My family has not moved to an urban area and so we still live as a wider circle together with the extended family. In my nuclear family, I am the first born of four children. I have one sister and two brothers who are still at school. I have three aunts and two uncles. My cousins are twelve in number and most of them are at school except for the youngest ones.

My grandparents are very old and they do not get out of the house much and are being taken care by my parents and aunts. Most of the children are always at school and the house gets quiet but during holiday, we all unite together as a full house. My family is of the middle class in terms of wealth. Our religion is Hindu and we all practice the Indian cultures and traditions. What I love about my family is that everyone is a good cook and the food is always amazing. Members of my family are kind and respectful and that is why we rarely have disputes. The family support is strong and we all love each other.

Why I love My Family:

Having a big family is interesting because the house always feels warm. As I had earlier mentioned, my family is made of good cooks, which makes me love them. There is always teamwork within the family and good relationships are maintained. I like the adventurous nature of my family because we always have fun whenever we go for holiday vacations or have a family event.

Moral cultural and spiritual values are highly cared for in the society. My family is oriented in good moral values and believe we make a good role model for the society. Despite the influence of education, the family has been able to maintain the culture and traditions of Indian people. The love that exists in my family is precious and that is the most important value of all times because what family without love?

Our Weekend Outings and House Parties:

We do not have many of these in our family because of the different schedules among the members. We only have weekend outings and house parties during holidays. Birthday parties are and weddings are the parties that we frequently have as a family. I love parties at home because the food is usually exceptionally good. Also, the dancing and happy faces. Weekend outings are usually in form of picnics and they are usually full of games.

Cousins Visit during Summer:

My family is young and only three of my cousins are in college. The rest are in high school or elementary schools. Whenever my cousins come home from school, it is a happy moment for the whole family and we host parties to welcome them home. Whenever my older cousins are at home, I enjoy their company and I love to hear stories about college because that is where I will be in a few years’ time.

In the spirit of holidays, we have a vacation or two in a year. During these vacations, plans begin early and when the time comes, it is enjoyable and relaxing. Vacations for us as children tend to be more enjoyable because we have an environment away from home and with minimal parental supervision and we tend to explore and talk among ourselves. Team building during vacations strengthens the bond in families.

Family is a blessing to individuals because that is where they belong and it is what defines them. A good family is built through moral values and team effort. Having family events and parties or vacations re important is strengthening the relationships within a family. A happy individual is definitely from a happy family.

Family , My Family , Relationships

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Happiness — Holiday Experience: What Makes Me Happy

Holiday Experience: What Makes Me Happy

• Categories: Happiness

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Published: Feb 12, 2019

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The importacne of doing what makes you happy, works cited.

• Burgess, H. (2021). 5 ways to make the most of your holidays. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-difference-engine/202106/5-ways-make-the-most-your-holidays
• Burn, S. M., & Szabo, A. (2019). An investigation of the impact of annual leave on job satisfaction, emotional exhaustion, and occupational stress among mental health professionals. Journal of Mental Health, 28(2), 186-193.
• Coon, D., & Mitterer, J. O. (2014). Psychology: Modules for active learning (13th ed.). Cengage Learning.
• Eder, R. W., & Walser, R. D. (2014). The importance of leisure and vacation time. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 10(4), 277-279.
• Elias, N. (2020). 12 reasons why holidays are important. Out of Office. Retrieved from https://www.outofoffice.com/blog/12-reasons-why-holidays-are-important
• Fisher, C. D. (2015). Happiness at work. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 12(8), 8628-8646.
• Gallagher, M. W., Marques, S. C., & Lopez, S. J. (2017). The importance of grit in the prediction of academic success and retention. Journal of College Student Retention: Research, Theory & Practice, 19(4), 332-347.
• Hill, K. (2018). 5 reasons why it’s important to take a break from work. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/kaytiezimmerman/2018/07/11/5-reasons-why-its-important-to-take-a-break-from-work/?sh=6c9acfc13dbf
• Januszka, M., & Andruszkiewicz, A. (2018). Emotional exhaustion and workaholism: The impact of goal attainment, obsessive-compulsive tendencies and work–life balance. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 27(3), 290-303.
• Kim, J. (2018). Positive psychological effects of leisure activities: Does distance from the everyday make a difference? Journal of Leisure Research, 50(4), 396-408.

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My worst holiday: Guardian writers on breaks that nearly broke them

Rescues, rows and robberies – sometimes vacations don’t go according to plan. Tell us your own holiday nightmares in the comments or via GuardianWitness

The Whitsundays: What sort of holiday requires instructions?

Our first holiday as husband and wife was a disaster. This is not counting the honeymoon obviously, because honeymoons must be resolutely remembered as blissful, otherwise the union is doomed. But our first holiday thereafter, still newlyweds, still getting used to life in tandem: disaster.

No one actually mentioned the word divorce so early in the piece but when you’ve got one sailing boat, five days of unseasonably appalling conditions and two captains overinflating their sailing experience and underreporting their bossiness, that’s the threat lurking behind every curt instruction.

What sort of “holiday” requires instructions? Well exactly. A holiday in which one person must necessarily take charge in a bossy-boots kind of way is no holiday at all. Add to this disgruntlement the necessity to yell to be heard over roaring winds while you veer dangerously off-course, and you start dreaming of a holiday to get over the holiday.

This is what we imagined: the becalmed beauty of the Whitsunday Passage, that spectacular collection of islands protectively nestled inside the Great Barrier Reef, safe from prevailing winds; bright blue languid days gliding over turquoise waters, taking turns at the tiller in our togs; finding our own private cove as the sun goes down; diving into warm pristine waters; the tinkling of intimate laughter; the fizz of champagne and the sizzle of prawns on the barbie.

This is what we got: driving horizontal rain (freezing); cyclonic winds (freezing); nasty, choppy, steel-grey water (freezing). A heaving boat, the relentless slap, slap, slap of the hull, no reprieve in quiet coves, and yelling from stern to bow. I’ll look at the map, you steer! No, I’ll steer, you look at the map! Release the cleat, I said, the CLEAT.

Our combined minutes of sailing experience brought us undone when we hit a reef on day two, with a sickening crunch and lurch onto that pale bit on the map that you’re supposed to avoid. Can’t you see the red lines? The RED LINES!

I’ll save you the pain of days three and four and take you straight to day five: a mayday call, a rescue mission, and a midwater transfer from lurching boat to lurching boat.

A friend of mine once said he reckoned the best test for any new relationship is the camping trip, but the yachting in cyclonic conditions with next-to-no sailing experience trip will do the trick too. If you can make it through that, calmer waters await. Lucy Clark

Tokyo: ‘Please do not be shocked by my appearance’

Before I got on the plane from Barcelona to Tokyo I emailed the friend I was staying with. “Please do not be shocked by my appearance. I look a little different. Also, I won’t have any money when I arrive, so if you can help me sort it out – appreciate.”

My appearance was shocking. I gasped with horror whenever I accidentally glimpsed at myself in the mirror – and that was before I even registered that it was me looking back. My face got worse on the plane ride to Tokyo – whether it was just the cabin pressure or the time that bruises take to bloom. But my friend, meeting me at a Hilton in Tokyo, blanched when he saw me. My eyes were black and swollen shut, one side of my face was also swollen and bruised and a long line of black, badly stitched thread ran down my right temple to my brow. The stitching looked like someone had killed a very black spider on my face but left the corpse there.

I had been assaulted and robbed in Barcelona a few days before, which resulted in two black eyes, a swollen jaw and fractured skull, now dented and stitched together by an exhausted intern who would never win a prize for the neatness of his craftwork.

My friend in Tokyo was a lawyer who dealt with the complexities of transnational airline leases and wore immaculately tailored suits. We made an odd-looking couple as we went from bank to bank with my passport, trying to get money out or get money wired or just access it somehow. In his flawless Japanese he negotiated on my behalf as I stood there – my face a grotesque mask. But each time we were rebuffed. In a chilled Starbucks my friend brought me an iced coffee, which I drank through a straw (my jaw still hurt) and said, “The people in the bank probably think I beat you up and am trying to drain your bank accounts. That’s what it looks like.”

We tried one more bank, and when they said no, tears burst with some difficulty from my swollen eyes, and the sight might have been so weird and sad that they finally said yes.

The rest of the time in Tokyo I didn’t leave my friend’s flat. I was anxious and exhausted, and had started to dream of the assault in shattered and jumbled fragments. In the day, when I should have been exploring Tokyo, I lay on the couch in the cool, dark flat and watched reruns of Dawson’s Creek. Brigid Delaney

New South Wales: Vomit and a blizzard

Holidays with children are wonderfully unpredictable. Our three-week international jaunt with a four-year-old and two-year-old, which included about 50 hours of flying time, was a dream, despite the horror stories involving toddlers and long-haul flights. It was a week-long trip to the snow that turned out to be the family holiday that would bring us to our knees.

We had it all planned. This would be a skiing holiday that would not break the bank. We borrowed gear, waited all year for Aldi specials on kids’ snowboots and booked a family room in the youth hostel.

The journey from Sydney to the snowfields takes about six hours, according to Google, but by the time we had stopped multiple times to intervene in children’s fights, change nappies and for plentiful snack breaks, seven hours had passed and we were only in Canberra. We booked a last-minute room at great expense in a hotel where there was a gathering of tax auditors or something, so the whole place was full.

The next day, we made it to our cosy room at the hostel. Then the projectile vomiting started. Our two-year-old had developed a high fever within minutes of us putting our bags down and was quite ill. Instead of marvelling at the snow swirling across the mountains outside, we were stuck in a room about the size of a small car trying to administer Panadol to a writhing toddler.

I stayed up most of the night worrying about how to drive in the snow to a hospital if things got worse – at one point he started convulsing. Vomit was on all of our clothes, the bedsheets, everything. We couldn’t turn the light on because it would wake our daughter so we had to use mobile phones to try to see what was happening (we hadn’t packed a torch). We couldn’t open the window to get rid of the smell because there was a blizzard outside.

The next morning, the conditions on the mountain were perfect but the little bloke was still very ill. Fresh white powdery snow was everywhere but we had to make the call to pack up and head home, fearing another night of temperatures in the 40s and no access to a doctor. While my wife packed up, I took our daughter to the snowfield to build a quick snowman and ride on a toboggan. In the end, we spent three days travelling, thousands of dollars probably (I didn’t want to add it up) and about 30 minutes – total – at the snow. Patrick Keneally

Sicily: Even shouting, we couldn’t hear each other

I’d pre-booked most of the accommodation for our driving trip around Sicily because with a five-year old the days of “let’s just see where we end up” were well behind us. But there was one day when I wasn’t sure how far across the southern coast we’d drive so I figured we’d just find something that night. “How bad could it be?” I thought. As it turns out, very bad.

Everything was full when we started looking in the late afternoon. Hours later, as the “I’m hungry” whine from the back seat turned into a meltdown, the tourism office in Sciacca said they had a “private rental”. We followed a bloke on a bike to a neat little terrace house near the port, paid him, promised to leave the keys on the living-room table, and wandered across the road to a trattoria for dinner, feeling quite pleased.

But as we returned we noticed the terrace next to ours was setting up chairs and tables on the pavement outside its front door and ours. Well-dressed young Italians were getting out of cars and a very loud sound check seemed to be emanating from our living room.

The terrace next door was a night club. The music began around nine, shaking the walls and vibrating through the floor. The pavement outside our front door was packed with screaming, dancing revellers. The “beer garden” included our back courtyard. Even shouting, we couldn’t hear each other. We drank some beers and tried to entertain our son who was hysterical with exhaustion. Finally, at 4am, the music stopped, but then the clean-up staff smashed bottles and sang football songs until dawn.

We left as elderly neighbours arrived home on the back of scooters, having obviously fled to sleep somewhere quieter. My husband may have thrown the keys into the harbour. Lenore Taylor

Sydney: A normal weekend day (in a bad way)

Our previous expensive family holiday had ended in disaster, so we decided to be smart and holiday at home this time. It would be cheap! It would be fun! We would save time travelling to our destination and just ... be.

I would like to write that things went well initially, but they didn’t. On the eve of our staycation my daughter got a temperature and was up all night saying her tummy hurt. Exhausted, we scrapped plans to go fruit picking the next day and stayed local. It was like a normal weekend day. We even went to the supermarket.

The following day we made it to the peach farm and successfully picked two bags of fruit! It was to be the highlight of the holiday. Gastro struck the rest of the family down in the following days. Oh, it was a staycation all right – in the bathroom.

When we finally emerged, thinner, paler and jaded, we had one day left of “holiday”. We went to the supermarket. The car broke down on the way home. Bonnie Malkin

The Netherlands: Car trouble

At one point on this holiday we visited the Vaalserberg, a place where the borders of Netherlands, Belgium and Germany meet. So you can stand in three countries at the same time. That did not make it the worst holiday in itself, but I say that as a preface for a detail about this story. Which is that when we – my dad driving, my mum alongside, a 16- or 17-year-old fractious me in the backseat, my younger sister and brother – headed down a remote country road, I can’t remember what language the road sign saying DO NOT ENTER was actually in. Or maybe it was just a sign with no words. Anyway, the meaning was fairly obvious, in retrospect.

I remember the next bit, which was about 100m away: the wheels of the Nurofen-coloured Talbot spinning round in the mud, countryside flying everywhere like an outtake from Carry on Camping. Us getting out of the car while the local farmers – Dutch? Let’s say they were Dutch – watched amused and incredulous. My dad in his cords, out of the car, pulling clods from tyres. I think then a tractor, and a rope. And an exchange with the Dutch farmers about that sign back there, you know the one saying DO NOT ENTER in one (or possibly two, or none) of four languages. It wasn’t raining; I guess that was a silver lining.

And it also meant that when I became a driver myself I had learned my lesson. I’ve only so far since had to be pulled out twice by a tractor, when I was a reporter in eastern England, both times within weeks of each other. No one told me there was a ditch there. Or there.

Everything was wrong with that holiday. Night terrors. Family dynamics. Me. Flat as a pancake – the land and the atmosphere. It was the family holiday you vow not to go on again – and you don’t until you get older, when you find that your parents are just the sort of people you want to spend time with like that. Strangely enough it produced one of the best all-family pictures we ever had taken, us all smiling. It contained a broader truth but in that week was a hideous lie. My dad had a very dry wit and was not great with cars.

A year later, or before, we got off the motor-rail in Milan and – bang – the exhaust fell off. So we saw not so much of the Piazza del Duomo, quite a lot of the Talbot dealer in the less fashionable outskirts. And he had a line about inventing a new Olympic sport: Battery-carrying on the Pembrokeshire coast. We didn’t think it was much of a goer, but that was before they allowed synchronised swimming, and golf. Will Woodward

The Whitsundays II: Sea rescue in failing light

Tears of terror rolling down my children’s cheeks are the most enduring memory of my worst holiday ever – a sailing trip in the Whitsundays in April 2014 that turned into a sea rescue in fading light.

We probably should have twigged that something was wrong when the outboard motor on the dinghy failed on day one. An engineer was dispatched to repair it and we sailed north towards Hayman Island in a blustering 40-knot easterly.

After lunch the catamaran’s port-side engine failed. Powerful gusts – or “bullets” as they are known locally – tested our anchor overnight as we waited for another engineer. Surely day three would be better.

In the late afternoon we set off for a sheltered overnight mooring. After 10 minutes, the starboard engine’s gauge ran hot. My son came up from the cabin saying he could smell smoke as black clouds billowed out of the stern hull.

If a boat is on fire, you get off – they tend to go up (or down) very quickly.

I deployed the fire extinguisher as my husband lowered the dinghy into the water. The kids, aged eight and nine, sat silently, frozen with fear. I don’t think they had ever seen their parents in emergency mode.

I asked them to find their precious bed teddies – items I knew we could not live without. They say that’s when they knew we were really in trouble. The scraping sound that followed was unmistakeable. We had drifted onto the reef in a falling tide with no idea how much damage had been done ... by the fire or the coral.

Eventually the harbourmaster at Hayman Island came to our aid as night fell – but catamarans were permanently struck off our holiday list that day. Alison Rourke

Corsica: ‘It is forbidden to pee in your wetsuit’

Corsica, Zonza in particular, was, according to every person I knew who’d been (two people), a brilliant location for canyoning. You couldn’t go to Corsica and not canyon.

Our tour was jam-packed with outdoorsy types, the true kind– not the kind who only do outdoorsy for one day on one holiday per year. They looked fit, had hiking gear and, unlike us, had brought lunch. As the only non-French speakers, we felt alone and outcast. We went off to find a sandwich, contemplating for the first time that we may have got ourselves into a semi-dangerous situation. Or worse. A just plain dangerous situation.

When our guide told us to “try on” our abseiling gear and that he would check it for safety, I weighed up in my mind the pros and cons of the day as I now saw it.

Pros: Zonza was a great place to try canyoning. And the guides were cute!

Cons: we look like absolute fools, or worse – die! And that would be in front of the cute guides.

Perhaps had I been a bit more careful while hiking down to the canyon, instead of practising in my head all the words I knew in French that I could possibly put together to impress upon the guides and fellow travellers that I was not a complete fool after all, I would not have tripped on those stones, lost balance, fell over and then rolled sideways down the rocky hiking path.

We hadn’t even got to the dangerous part yet. I started to wonder if my £10m travel insurance policy would cover a helicopter coming in to get me right about now when my friend Helen enquired:

“Why didn’t we find out exactly what canyoning was?”

“I don’t know.”

A guide started giving instructions in French. He seemed to be saying pretty important stuff. People were watching him and looking serious. Every now and then some nervous laughter broke out. Eventually he looked at Helen and me and said: “Mathieu will tell you in English.”

After roughly five to seven minutes of watching him talk, Mattieu did. “So in canyoning you jump like this. You take one step forward and push off with the other foot, almost like running. Use your arms to get your balance and then do this.”

He crossed his arms across his chest. That was it. The other guide’s pep talk reduced to three sentences.

Before we left, our guide made one more announcement in English: “It is forbidden to pee in your wetsuit.”

We reached our first drop quite quickly, and were there met with a choice: a two-metre or four-metre jump. So this was canyoning: jumping off rocks into water you can’t see and abseiling down rocks at ever-greater heights.

My first jump turned out to be quite exhilarating and I began to believe the hike may have been the scariest part of the day. Then Helen said there was no way she was jumping off a nine-metre high waterfall. “I probably should have thought that my fear of heights may have affected my ability to do this,” pondered Helen, as she swam through the canyon’s fresh stream, face white and heart pounding.

Let’s just say, the next five hours were long. I’m glad I’ve done it, but I’ll not be canyoning again any time soon. On the plus side, we never had cause to call in that helicopter. Gabrielle Jackson

Tell us your experiences in the comments section below and with pictures and stories via GuardianWitness

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• Family Dynamics

Holiday Family Dynamics (Yikes!)

There are better ways for all than avoiding family celebrations..

Updated April 17, 2024 | Reviewed by Hara Estroff Marano

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Recent weeks have seen Spring Break, Passover, Easter, and Ramadan, and possibly a few other reasons to have family gatherings. Then there are summertime July 4th celebrations, possibly summer birthdays, and then Christmas, Hannukah, New Year's parties,and Kwanza. In other words, whoever you are, wherever there are family celebrations of any sort, there are always reasons for get-togethers.

Wherever and whenever family gatherings are, there are often sticky situations you may have to face. You may be at odds with the family's religious practices, politics , or expectations of you. You may hate your position in the family, which may no longer be yours: ("Little Lorie, how you have grown!" or "Still single?" when you are an adult).

No matter when or what, many people have an issue with a family member or with customary practices that makes family get-togethers less than wonderful to anticipate participating in.

So do you keep pleading too much work or declining invitations for various vague excuses? Have you ever told a living parent, sibling , or other relative host the real reason behind your excuses? If not, I strongly suggest you do before you miss all the fun or a relative who is suddenly gone before you expected it. Allow me to provide a few examples:

1. Let's say some or many of the family loudly express ideas that go against yours, or they press you uncomfortably with questions like "Where do you go to church where you live?" or "Why don't you invite some of your friends to our family dos?" Be straightforward, and turn the tables. "What about you, Aunt Fanny. I know you used to enjoy the social life at your church. Do you still?" Most people would rather talk about themselves anyway.

2. Be ready with some ideas for group games that will turn attention from a dicey topic into fun for all, like a tug-of-war. If that's not your family's style, excuse yourself and go to the kitchen or washroom if the general discussion turns to politics or ideas you don't share.

3. If the conversation is not something you want to get into, grin and bear it if you possibly can. There must be some relative there you enjoy. Seek that one out to hang with.

4. When an invitation to a family event arrives, don't automatically refuse. Give a thought to some of the elders who may be gone before you know it and to ways (see above) to attend while avoiding the unpleasantries. There is actually much to be valued in seeing the family from which you sprang, like it all or not.

Isadora Alman , M.F.T ., is a board-certified sex, marriage, and family therapist, lecturer, author, and syndicated advice columnist of "Ask Isadora."

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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Family Guy's 2024 Holiday Specials Get Major Streaming Update

• Family Guy will release two holiday specials in 2024.
• They are set to stream on Hulu, just as regular episodes do after they air on Fox.
• Plot details have not yet been revealed.

Family Guy 's 2024 holiday specials receive a major streaming update amid news about the future of the hit animated comedy. Debuting in 1999, the sitcom was created by Seth MacFarlane and follows the dysfunctional Griffin family and their many mishaps in the fictional town of Quahog, Rhode Island. Family Guy features an ensemble voice cast, including MacFarlane , Mila Kunis, Seth Green, and Alex Borstein, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest animated shows, earning a total of eight Primetime Emmy Awards during its 22 seasons on the air.

Following MacFarlane discussing Family Guy 's future beyond season 23, there has been news that two 2024 holiday specials are going to stream on Hulu . According to reports from TVLine , news broke during the show's PaleyFest panel that the streaming platform will be the home to two exclusive Family Guy specials, the details of which are currently yet to be revealed. Hulu is already home to new Family Guy episodes the day after they air on Fox.

What The Family Guy Specials Could Mean For The Future Of The Show

Is the legendary comedy heading for the finish line.

The fact that Family Guy is producing holiday specials is positive news for its future, and MacFarlane has already stated that he is planning to continue it for as long as audiences are interested. When reflecting on Family Guy 's 25th anniversary, he discussed its enduring appeal, so it feels unlikely that it will be ending any time soon. In a similar vein to fellow animated sitcom South Park , which has run for 26 seasons, Family Guy shows little sign of slowing down , and, being an animated show, coordinating cast members is easier than it would be for live-action.

Family Guy has been so successful largely as a result of its off-beat humor, satirization of American culture, and a tendency not to shy away from controversial topics, and as long as the show can continue in this vein, it will always appeal to certain people . Provided MacFarlane feels he can keep things fresh and interesting, and there are still stories to tell, it seems inevitable that Family Guy will find an audience, and with each passing year there are new world events to satirize.

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While it is unclear how many seasons the show might yet run for, it will continue for a while. In fact, following years of uncertainty, the Family Guy movie has had a positive update from MacFarlane, who is seemingly keen to explore how the show might look as a feature film, and this could open the door to future movies as well. The two Family Guy specials could also set a precedent for Hulu, and there might be more specials on the platform moving forward.

Family Guy season 23 will premiere later this year on Fox.

Source: TVLine

Family Guy, created by Seth McFarlane and David Zuckerman, follows Peter Griffin and his family as they find themselves in bizarre situations in the fictional city of Quahog, Road Island. Between the cutaway gags and memorable characters such as Chris, Meg, Lois, Stewie, and Brian, Family Guy has become one of Fox’s most successful animations, even winning several Primetime Emmys.

Cast Alex Borstein, Patrick Warburton, Seth Green, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane, Lacey Chabert, Mike Henry

Release Date January 31, 1999

Genres Animation, Comedy

Network FOX

Streaming Service(s) Hulu

Franchise(s) Family Guy

Writers David Zuckerman, Seth MacFarlane

Showrunner Seth MacFarlane

Rating TV-14

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Volunteers from jewish family services package passover meals in overland park.

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Monday night is the start of Passover.

The Jewish holiday is a celebration of freedom.

The eight-day holiday begins today as volunteers with Jewish Family Services packed up and passed out special meals for their neighbors.

Meal distribution continues throughout the next week at Jewish Family Services.

‘Family Guy’ Is Crashing Hulu With Two Holiday Specials in 2024

The popular adult animated series just concluded its twenty-second season.

The Big Picture

• Family Guy is getting two new holiday specials in 2024.
• While no release date for the episodes has been announced series creator Seth MacFarlane hinted that they would be themed around Halloween and Christmas.
• Family Guy will return for Season 23 sometime later this year.

Family Guy is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2024. Fox and creator Seth MacFarlane have pulled out all the stops to make the year special for fans of the series. The series just wrapped up its 22nd season on Fox early this week. Now, it has been announced that Family Guy will get not one, but two holiday specials this year. According to Deadline , the news was revealed at PolyFestLA on Friday (April 19).

It’s been a huge weekend for the adult animated series as PolyFestLA was the site of a Family Guy 25th anniversary celebration that saw MacFarlane , who also voices many of the beloved characters on the series like Peter and Stewie Griffin, reunite with the show’s stars like Seth Green , Alex Borstein, and Mila Kunis . While no release date was set for the specials, MacFarlane said they'll likely be "our Halloween and Christmas episodes." Both specials will debut exclusively on Hulu.

“He’s Our Family Guy!”

While Family Guy is known today as one of the most popular TV shows on the planet, it didn’t start out that way. After the series premiered in 1999, the show was cancelled twice before reruns and physical media sales saved the community of Quahog. After the show revived for its fourth season in 2005 on Fox, Family Guy never looked back. MacFarlane’s random humor pushed the boundaries of what could be done on television, and you never knew what topic the series was going to unapologetically cover next. The cut-away gags also became one of the signature staples of the series, making Family Guy ’s colorful jokes even wilder in their ambitious scope.

Given its dark sense of humor that’s layered in stereotypes and mature content, the series has had its fair share of controversies over the years. However, that’s only made Family Guy ’s quarter-century legacy that much more substantial. Since the series’ third shot of life, MacFarlane has become a household name in the comedy genre with his Ted franchise making people laugh for the last decade. His Ted prequel series premiered its first season earlier this year on Peacock to a ton of critical praise.

Where Is ‘Family Guy’ Streaming?

Family Guy is currently streaming on Hulu alongside Fox’s other animated staples like The Simpsons and Bob’s Burgers . While fans wait for more info on Family Guy ’s upcoming holiday specials, you can watch the cast and crew reflect on the series below. The series may be 25 years old , but MacFarlane has indicated that Family Guy ’s not ending anytime soon . He’s even teased at PolyFestLA that there will be a Family Guy film one day.

Family Guy Season 23 will return later this year. Previous seasons are available on Hulu.

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Bruce Drysdale 5th-grade student advances to national finals in DAR's essay contest

Bruce Drysdale fifth grader Lia Martinonis has advanced to the national finals in the Daughters of the American Revolution 2024 Essay Contest, and each time her essay has advanced, her family has celebrated with a cake.

She is anxiously hoping for more cake. Martinonis is one of eight fifth-grade finalists in the nation, and so far, she's won three awards for her essay — one at the local level, one at the state level and the latest for the Southeastern Division.

"I am unbelievably proud. I have felt both shocked and pleased each time I learned that I had won," she said.

And there's prize money involved: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third place. The winners will be recognized at the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Continental Congress, which is being held June 26-30 in Washington, D.C.

The topic for the contest was “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Essay writers were asked to imagine they were a newspaper reporter for The Philadelphia Times on May 14, 1897, and the newspaper's editor asked them to attend and report on the first public performance of John Philip Sousa’s new march, “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” The students were to tell about Sousa’s life and the story behind the song.

Lia was with her family on April 20 in Durham to receive the state award, her mother, Andrea, said.

"This essay contest has been an incredible experience for Lia. My daughter aspires to be a writer when she grows up," Andrea Martinonis said. "This opportunity has given her the confidence to pursue that dream. Lia researched the essay subject, learned about American history, honed her writing skills, and read her speech to a large audience at the initial award ceremony. 

"As an educator, I couldn't be more pleased that DAR sponsors this contest, encouraging students to write essays and learn about our nation's past. As a parent, I am thrilled that my daughter chooses to spend her free time reading and writing and that her interests and skills are being recognized."

More: North Henderson student one of four grand prize winners in national essay contest

Lia said her teacher, April Summey, assigned the essay contest to her class.

"I remember being frustrated when drafting my essay, but now I am so glad my hard work paid off. I still cannot believe this is all happening," Lia Martinonis said.  

This part of her essay describes Sousa talking about composing his new march:

"...Sousa said that he composed the song in his head on his return to America as he grieved the death of his beloved band manager, David Blakely. Sousa said, “In a kind of dreamy way, I used to think over old days at Washington when I was leader of the Marine Band…when we played at all public functions, and I could see the Stars and Stripes flying from the flagstaff.” He also stated, “And that flag of ours became glorified… And to my imagination it seemed to be the biggest, grandest flag in the world, and I could not get back under it quick enough.”

More: Apple Valley Middle student one of four grand prize winners in national contest

Summey called Lia a phenomenal, gifted student who "always goes above and beyond."

"She thrives on a challenge and is an avid learner. Her contagious curiosity shines brightly as she lights up upon acquiring new knowledge," Summey said. "Every year, my fifth grade students work on the DAR essay. They are given a prompt and required to read multiple primary and secondary sources about the topic in order to prepare. I am very passionate about the contest, because it helps students learn history and get excited about it." 

Dean Hensley is the news editor for the Hendersonville Times-News. Email him with tips, questions and comments at [email protected]. Please help support this kind of local journalism with a subscription to the Hendersonville Times-News.

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Paramount global ceo bob bakish’s 2023 pay totals $31.3m, down slightly from prior year, breaking news.

Hulu To Launch Two ‘Family Guy’ Holiday Specials

By Armando Tinoco

Armando Tinoco

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Hulu is set to get two Family Guy holiday specials later this year.

As the animated sitcom celebrates its 25th anniversary since its premiere, it was confirmed at PaleyFestLA that the Seth MacFarlane -created series would air two holiday specials later this year.

Family Guy’s Season 22 finale is set to air on Wednesday, April 17 at 9:32 p.m. ET on Fox, with the episode made available on Hulu the next day.

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Creator and executive producer Seth MacFarlane voices Peter Griffin, Stewie and Brian; Alex Borstein voices Lois; Seth Green voices Chris; Mila Kunis voices Meg; and Arif Zahir voices Cleveland Brown.

MacFarlane recently talked about the future of the series, saying he doesn’t see the show ending anytime soon.

“At this point, I don’t see a good reason to stop. People still love it. It makes people happy and it funds some good causes,” MacFarlane said in an interview with the  Los Angeles Times . “It’s a lot of extraneous cash that you can donate to Rainforest Trust and you can still go out to dinner that night.”

He continued, “There was a time when I thought, it’s time to wrap it up. At this point, we’ve reached escape velocity. I don’t know that there’s any reason to stop at this point unless people get sick of it. Unless the numbers show that people just are, ‘Eh, we don’t care about  Family Guy  anymore.’ But that hasn’t happened yet.”

Family Guy  premiered in January 1999 on Fox and was canceled after two seasons. A last-minute pickup at the network gave the show a third season before it was axed for good. Reruns on Cartoon Network and DVD availability gave the show new life, making it a cult show among fans. Fueled by its resurgence, Fox picked up the show again and premiered Season 4 in May 2005.

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Families gather in New Jersey to celebrate Passover, a holiday that "celebrates the resilience of Jews"

By Alicia Roberts , Sean Tallant

April 22, 2024 / 11:45 PM EDT / CBS Philadelphia

VOORHEES, N.J. (CBS) — In prayer, song and tradition that span generations, families gathered Monday night to mark the start of Passover, the annual celebration of the Israelites' exodus from slavery in Egypt. 

"Passover celebrates the resilience of Jews," Jennifer Dubrow Weiss, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey, said. 

"You sit together with your family and your friends, and you tell the Passover story, which is how the Jews became resilient and rose up," she said.

While Passover is often known for its pomp and ceremony, this year is different as the war in the Middle East continues.

"We're all very triggered at the moment," Weiss said. "We're facing adversity of antisemitism. We're leaving open seats for the hostages who don't know freedom."

Although the past few months have been especially difficult, those who gathered Monday night said they remain resolved in their faith and future. 

"The Jewish story is we kept going, and we are going to keep going, and we're going to keep gathering," Weiss said.

• South Jersey

Emmy-award winning Reporter and Anchor Alicia Roberts joined the CBS News Philadelphia team in December 2020.

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