• Oliva Purba and Dirkjan Tijs wanted to live a simpler and more sustainable life in Bali, Indonesia.
• So, they swapped their three-bedroom villa near Canggu for tiny living in Ubud.
• Instead of one tiny house, the couple built two — for $30,000.

After two years of living in a three-bedroom villa near Bali's popular Canggu tourist district, Olivia Purba and her husband, Dirkjan Tijs, decided it was time to downsize.

Purba, originally from North Sumatra, moved south from Indonesia's northern province in 2017 to work for a non-governmental organization in Bali as a partnerships officer, where she worked closely with small farmers in the coffee, cacao, rice, cinnamon, and seaweed sectors.

Tijs, a software engineer from the Netherlands, arrived in Bali in 2018 as a digital nomad. His original plan was to stay on the island for a month — but then he met Purba and they fell in love.

Although the couple traveled extensively, both for work and leisure, Bali always felt like home.

The villa was their first house together. The home had a private pool and much more space than they needed.

"We thought that maybe our friends or family could come over. We also ended up renting out the extra rooms to our friends," Purba, 36, now a sustainability consultant who also runs a travel business with her husband, told Business Insider.

But over time, they realized that they wanted more privacy.

Without kids, it didn't make sense for them to live in such a big house either. Moreover, their neighborhood was getting crowded, and all those factors got them thinking about a move.

"We thought, 'Let's go to Ubud because it's less crowded than Canggu and Pererenan, and build something that's simple, sustainable, and just enough for the two of us,'" she said.

Ubud is near the center of the Indonesian island and is known for its rainforest and terraced rice paddies.

From tourist-central Canggu to the lush forests of Ubud

They were drawn to tiny houses because they liked the idea of living minimally, but they also wanted enough space to start a permaculture farm where they could grow their own food.

"I have a background in sustainability, so I always thought I needed to walk my talk, too," Purba said.

In February 2024, they found the perfect plot of land in Ubud to build on.

The property measured about 3,230 square feet and was situated in a great location: It was surrounded by trees and rice fields, yet stores and restaurants were less than 10 minutes away.

And unlike in Canggu, the traffic there isn't as bad, Purba said.

While Purba is Indonesian — which means she can buy land in Bali — the couple chose to lease the plot for 25 years instead. They paid 325 million Indonesian rupiah, or about $19,800 for it.

It's cheaper to lease the land instead of buying it, Tijs, 36, told BI.

"It also means that my name can also be on the property as well, and the lease aligns with the time that it'll probably take for a wooden house to stay good," he said.

There's also an ethical reason behind their decision, Purba said: "A lot of land in Bali is being taken from the Balinese. This way, after 25 years, they can have their land back."

Instead of building one tiny house, the couple opted for two.

It felt economical to build two on the same plot of land since the cost of transporting materials, building resources, and tools could be shared between both houses, Tijs said.

The contractors were also able to work on the houses almost simultaneously, he said.

Although the couple had decided not to continue sharing their house, they still wanted space to host guests.

"If we have friends or family visiting, they can still stay with us on the same land. Otherwise, we can rent it out," he said.

Despite having no formal architecture experience, Purba sketched the designs she had in mind for both houses on paper. The couple then worked with local builders to bring those ideas to life.

Save for some furniture assembly, the rest of the building work was done by their contractors.

In early October, the first tiny house — which is also the couple's primary residence — was completed.

It was an L-shaped wooden structure inspired by a combination of Japanese and Scandinavian design aesthetics.

A month later, the second tiny house, which featured a loft-style design, was done.

Both tiny houses cost 492.5 million Indonesian rupiah, or about $30,000, to build.

One of the biggest challenges during construction was transporting raw materials to the site. There was only one tiny road — just over three feet wide — that led to the plot.

"You can only access it by bike. Even with a bike, sometimes, if your bike is big, you'll need to stop to let people pass," Purba said.

The couple had to rent a smaller plot of land nearby to store their building materials before the builders they hired transported everything to the site using bikes and three-wheeled carts, she said.

Living authentically close to nature

Purba and Tijs are part of a growing trend of people who are interested in living tiny.

As housing costs continue to rise globally, tiny houses offer a much more affordable alternative to traditional real estate.

Six people who live in tiny houses previously told BI it was a way for them to reduce their housing expenses and be more conscious about the things they buy.

Likewise, being in a tiny house has enabled the couple to live a more simple life.

"Considering the size of the place, it's not super cluttered. We try to limit our stuff," Tijs said.

They've always been interested in minimalism, and living in a tiny house has only further motivated them to get rid of unnecessary things and declutter.

"You realize that if there are things you don't need, you shouldn't just keep it," Purba said.

These days, the couple has been tending to their permaculture garden, where they've been growing mostly herbs, such as lemongrass and parsley, as well as fruit, like pineapples and bananas.

Although eating out is quite affordable in Bali, they are hoping to grow more of their own food.

"I also have fish in my fish pond, but let's see if I want to eat my fish," Purba said with a laugh.

Looking back, Purba says their tiny house journey has been fulfilling because she feels she's able to live more authentically.

Being close to nature has made a huge difference to her mental health. They even fall asleep to the sounds of nature at night, like the frogs croaking in the field and the water flowing in their pond, she said.

"Every day I'll go check on my plants. I'm kind of like, earthing. My feet touch the earth, and it makes me feel peaceful," she added.

Do you have a story to share about living in tiny houses? Contact this reporter at [email protected].

• Critical Role's cofounders sat down with BI and answered one big question: Are you stepping down?
• Critical Role's CEO, Travis Willingham, said the answer to that is a hard no.
• But the cofounders do want to bring on "new faces" and ink new partnerships.

Critical Role's cofounders are answering one big question about their business — and putting some speculation to bed.

The eight-member team has streamed their long-running "Dungeons & Dragons" game for hundreds of episodes. Over the last decade, the California-based crew turned their Twitch hit show into a business venture with multiple arms spanning gaming, Amazon-backed animated series, and publishing.

They've sold out stadiums for their live shows, and are embarking on a multi-city tour between April and October: Chicago, Fishers (just outside Indianapolis), Sydney, Melbourne, and New York.

BI asked four of the company's cofounders — who are now mostly in their 40s — about fan speculation that they'd step down from broadcasting to focus on behind-the-scenes work.

The answer was a hard no.

"We've had 10 amazing years — and it should be clear and known and declared that we're not going anywhere. We've got tons more to do," Travis Willingham, Critical Role's CEO, said.

Not done with telling stories

Liam O'Brien, one of CR's cofounders and the face of its literary and publishing business, told BI he already has character ideas for their next streaming project.

The crew also isn't done with the world of Exandria — the sprawling gameplay sandbox that Matthew Mercer, CR's chief creative officer, created over a decade ago.

Willingham says he wants to explore the Shattered Teeth, a string of mysterious islands in Exandria, and see what the game world looks like under the sea.

O'Brien, meanwhile, wants to take a big leap forward in time.

"Someday in some manner, in some medium, I want to visit Exandria in a science fiction far future," he said.

Ray also told BI that she's figuring out what the next cofounder-led project to hit their streaming platform, Beacon, will look like.

"Between Campaign Two and Campaign Three, we built a new set," Ray told BI. "We're talking about merch, and we're talking new ways that we can continue to elevate our content and how we tell this story. We are very much in the thick of that right now as we're building everything out."

New faces, new partnerships

CR is also interested in having new talent on board.

"We're very dedicated to introducing these new faces to our audience. And that's not going to stop anytime soon," Ray said.

"I don't think we could hang up the towel even if we wanted to. I think we're all addicted, so you're not going to see any of the founders go anywhere," she said.

The CR team also wants to bring new crews and their projects on board.

There's already precedent for this. CR expanded its reach in the podcasting business by acquiring shows like "Midst" and "Tales from the Stinky Dragon." The latter streamed at the Texas-based Rooster Teeth Productions until that company shut down in 2024.

Willingham told BI that the crew wants to find creatives who make "cool and nerdy" things — and he hopes CR's streaming platform, Beacon, can help give such people a platform.

"After 10 years, one of the most exciting things is the opportunity to give storytellers a new spotlight," Willingham said.

• Joby Aviation is partnering with Virgin Atlantic to launch flying taxis in the United Kingdom.
• The company said the air taxi can carry up to four passengers.
• Joby also plans to launch air taxis in the US this year in New York and Los Angeles.

UK residents can soon skip the Tube, Uber, and hours of traffic by gliding through the skies in long-imagined flying taxis.

Electric air taxi company Joby and British airline Virgin Atlantic announced a new partnership on Sunday to bring flying taxis to the UK.

Joby said its air cabs use "six tilting propellers" that allow them to take off and land vertically with a fraction of the noise of a helicopter.

The aircraft is designed for back-to-back flights and can carry up to four passengers at a time. They can fly at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour and be used for trips of up to 100 miles. A more than hourlong car ride from Heathrow Airport to Canary Wharf would become an 8-minute flight by air taxi.

The company plans to build a network of landing locations, known as vertiports, across the UK. At launch, it expects pricing to be in line with "premium" ride-sharing options.

Joby and Delta Air Lines — which has a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic — announced a partnership in 2022 to use air taxis for transporting customers to the airport across the US and UK. Joby is also backed by Toyota and Uber.

"Virgin Atlantic's commitment to delighting its customers reflects our experience with Delta and we couldn't imagine a better partner to work with in the UK," Joby's founder and CEO JoeBen Bevirt, said in the company's press release.

Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, said, "As a leader in sustainability and with innovation firmly in our DNA, we are delighted to be partnering with Joby to bring short-haul, zero-emission flight to airports and cities throughout the UK."

Electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles, or eVTOLs, the technical name for air taxis, still need to clear a few regulatory hurdles before they're ready to take flight. But the UK has a roadmap called the Future of Flight Action Plan that aims to have the first eVTOL in the air by 2026.

In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration cleared Joby's air taxis for flight in a "final rule" published in October that provides guidelines for training pilots and operations. Joby has plans to launch its first air taxis in New York City and Los Angeles by the end of this year.

United Airlines, which has a partnership with eVTOL company Archer Aviation, is also planning to launch its first air taxis this year.

• A jury awarded Michael Garcia, a delivery driver, $50 million after a Starbucks drink burned him.
• Garcia filed a complaint against Starbucks in 2020 after a hot tea fell on his lap.
• Garcia suffered serious burns, his lawyers argued.

A court ordered Starbucks to pay $50 million to a California delivery driver who suffered serious burns after a hot tea fell in his lap.

A Los Angeles County jury found Starbucks negligent on March 14, marking four years since the litigation between Starbucks and Michael Garcia began. Garcia, who worked at the time as a Postmates driver, first filed the complaint against Starbucks in March 2020.

A Starbucks spokesperson told Business Insider it planned to appeal the decision.

"We sympathize with Mr. Garcia, but we disagree with the jury's decision that we were at fault for this incident and believe the damages awarded to be excessive," the statement said. "We plan to appeal. We have always been committed to the highest safety standards in our stores, including the handling of hot drinks."

Trial Lawyers for Justice, the firm representing Garcia, said he entered a Starbucks drive-thru that February and ordered three venti-sized hot teas. The firm said the barista at the pick-up window "negligently failed" to secure one of the drinks into the drink carrier.

"Within 1.4 seconds of Michael taking possession of the tray, the unsecured cup fell directly into his lap, the lid popped off, and the scalding hot tea caused third-degree burns to his penis, groin, and inner thighs," a press release said. "He was taken by paramedics to the emergency room."

Nick Rowley, Garcia's attorney, said the driver's life "has been forever changed."

"No amount of money can undo the permanent catastrophic harm he has suffered, but this jury verdict is a critical step in holding Starbucks accountable for flagrant disregard for customer safety and failure to accept responsibility," he said in a statement.

• I moved to South Korea when I was 24 to teach English.
• I was lonelier than I had ever been when I met a local family.
• We are still in touch 18 years later, and their daughter is the age I was when I met them.

My life in Korea got off to a rough start.

Six days after settling into suburban Seoul to teach English, I arrived at my apartment to find my key didn't work. Strange, I thought. The key had worked that morning when I left.

I walked to the school and found all my belongings in garbage bags. The owner informed me that he didn't have a job for me after all and then loaded my stuff into the school van. He was passing me along to a friend on the other side of Seoul who needed a teacher. Without much agency, I fell in line.

The new apartment was nestled at the end of a rundown alley. It was small, musty, and filled with sterile fluorescent light. The new town was on the very outskirts of an expanding metropolis, the last stop on the newest subway line. To fill the time, I signed up for taekwondo in the evenings. I was the only adult in a dojo full of small children, some of whom I taught during the day. It was like that episode of Seinfeld where Kramer takes karate. I Skyped home often from dark and smoky PC bangs (internet cafés) to connect to the people who knew me.

I was lonelier than I had ever been. Then I met the Kims.

They asked me to teach their daughter English

They owned the restaurant at the end of my alley. It was called The Pig House and served exactly what you'd expect from a restaurant with that name. Winding aluminum ducts snaked down like tentacles to the grills at each table.

One day, a woman approached me. It was a friend of theirs who spoke English who said the Kims asked if I would tutor their daughter, Eujin, who was six. I agreed. I gave Eujin lessons on the heated floor of a small room in the back of the restaurant, often while her dad, Byungdong, watched Korean soap operas beside us.

Soon, I was having dinner there most nights after taekwondo. Eujin's mom, Myungjoo, bought an English phrase book that she used as a tool in our nightly conversations. Once, frustrated with each other and eager to practice English, I witnessed an argument using the book. Myungjoo searched for the right insult.

"Talking to you is like talking to a brick wall," she over-enunciated.

Byungdong grabbed the book, flipping pages for the proper retort. A full minute passed.

"You don't know what you are talking about," he clapped back, his face contorting as it always would when he tried to pronounce English words.

They were what I needed

Our relationship deepened. They took me to noraebangs (karaoke rooms) with their extended family. I spent Chuseok, Korean Thanksgiving, with them. On weekends, sometimes we would pile into Byungdong's taxi and go hiking in places I never would have found. Other times I took them into Seoul to explore the neighborhoods I was discovering because they rarely went into the city.

I realized throughout all of this my loneliness was melting away. But it was more than that. As an only child of a divorced family, spending time with the Kims was like therapy I never knew I needed.

I left Korea after seven months but never lost contact with the Kims. Today, Eujin is 24, the age I was when we met. I have kids of my own who are roughly the ages she and her brother Woonghee were back then. Eujin's English is great, and we Skype regularly. She sends my kids Christmas gifts. I give her interview advice. We talk about the Squid Game and share recipes.

The Kims want to come to the US, and we've told them they will always have a place to stay. After all, that's what family's for.

• Chinese tech giant Baidu released open-source AI models Ernie X1 and Ernie 4.5.
• The company says the models rival those from OpenAI and DeepSeek in performance per cost.
• The models also further the AI industry's turn toward open-source.

Baidu, China's answer to Google, has released two new AI models.

On Saturday, Baidu released Ernie X1, a reasoning model it says "delivers performance on par with DeepSeek R1 at only half the price."

It also launched a multimodal foundation model called Ernie 4.5 that the company says "outperforms GPT-4.5 in multiple benchmarks while priced at just 1% of GPT-4.5."

Baidu said it's also making its chatbot, Ernie Bot, free to the public on April 1, ahead of schedule.

The tech giant said it will "progressively integrate" Ernie 4.5 and X1 into its product ecosystem, including Baidu Search, China's dominant search engine.

Baidu's new releases come as Silicon Valley reckons with the cost of AI models, largely spurred by the latest drops from DeepSeek, a Chinese startup launched by hedge fund High Flyer.

In December, DeepSeek released a large language model called V3, and in January, it unveiled a reasoning model called R1. The models are considered as good or better than equivalent models from OpenAI but priced "anywhere from 20-40x cheaper," according to analysis from Bernstein Research.

OpenAI vs DeepSeek vs Baidu

Tokens are the smallest unit of data an AI model processes. Companies price models according to how many input tokens a model processes and output tokens it generates.

For Ernie 4.5, Baidu said that input and output token prices start as low as 0.004 Chinese yuan per thousand input tokens and 0.016 per thousand output tokens.

BI converted those figures into US dollars to understand how chat models from OpenAI, DeepSeek, and Baidu compare against one another. While Baidu's cost claims against OpenAI's latest, "emotionally intelligent" GPT-4.5 check out, DeepSeek's V3 barely wins out in cost against Ernie 4.5.

In terms of reasoning models, conversions to USD show that Ernie X1 is the cheapest of all with prices just under 2% of OpenAI's o1.

Cost-savings aside, those who've already tried Ernie seem impressed. "Been playing around with it for hours, impressive performance," Alvin Foo, a venture partner at Zero2Launch, said in a post on X.

Baidu's latest models demonstrate not only the growing competition between the United States and China in the AI race but also the latter's growing embrace of open-source models.

"One thing we learned from DeepSeek is that open-sourcing the best models can greatly help adoption," Robin Li, Baidu's CEO, said on an earnings call in February. "When the model is open source, people naturally want to try it out of curiosity, which helps drive broader adoption."

China, which aims to become a global leader in AI by 2030, has captured headlines over the past weeks with the release of AI agent Manus and Alibaba's own open-source model, QwQ-32B.

Until now, AI insiders seemed eager for the coming launch of DeepSeek's R2. But the Ernie collection may give it a run for its money.

• My husband and I have loved a travel adventure even before we had kids.
• When they were born, it didn't slow us down, and we kept exploring new places while baby-wearing them.
• We now allow our kids to plan our next vacation, and it's led to great adventures.

My husband and I are avid adventurers who love to hike, camp, and explore the world through off-the-beaten-path trips. Before we had kids, we backpacked extensively in the US and India (where we're originally from) and even spent our honeymoon on an 18-day off-grid RV road trip through New Zealand while being completely off-grid with no planned agenda.

When our kids were born, our travels didn't slow down. In fact, some of my most vivid memories are of backcountry camping in Glacier National Park, and hiking 11 miles to Sperry Chalet with my son in a BabyBjörn carrier and my daughter in a Kelty kids' hiking carrier.

Fast forward about a decade, and my teens started having their own opinions on where they wanted to go — often inspired by books they read or movies they watched. We introduced a fun tradition to let them have a say: writing down destinations on chits and drawing a winner from a fishbowl. Each child submits four options they want to explore, and we draw two contenders, assess them for feasibility and cost, and then narrow them down to one. If one child's pick is chosen, the other takes the lead in planning the itinerary. If neither option works, we redraw until we find the perfect fit.

This process has led to some incredible — and sometimes unexpected — escapades for us. Here are a few of the most memorable ones.

Free diving in the Great Barrier Reef

Both of my kids are strong swimmers and have always loved the ocean. Before the pandemic, they wanted to spend a summer exploring a new country while learning to surf, so they chose Australia.

While we traveled to cities like Sydney and Melbourne, the most unforgettable experience was our trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling through the vibrant underwater world, we spotted reef sharks, clownfish, and groupers. The true highlight, though, was free diving along a shallow section. Both kids ditched their snorkeling gear and swam among schools of fish, completely immersed in the serenity of the deep blue.

To this day, they still talk about that moment and the sense of wonder it gave them.

Staying in a bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, Jordan

Inspired by "The Martian" and "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," one year, my 15-year-old daughter picked Jordan, which turned out to be one of the best trips. The sight of the soft pink hues of Petra's Treasury building and the surreal experience of floating in the Dead Sea were unforgettable but nothing compared to our time in a Bedouin camp in the heart of Wadi Rum.

It felt like we had stepped into a different world, one where time slowed and the quiet of the desert took over. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the endless red dunes burst into shades of gold and crimson, leaving us in awe of its sheer beauty. And at night, the sky opened, revealing a million stars that seemed so close you could almost touch them.

Our Bedouin host shared the ancient art of navigation through the stars, teaching us how they use the planets as their compass. My kids were mesmerized by the stories and the feeling of being so small yet deeply connected to something that ancient.

Climbing an active volcano in Chile

Having two athletes in the family ensures that there's always one heart-pumping activity during our travels. While my 15-year-old son picked Chile, my 19-year-old daughter planned a hike to the summit of Villarica, South America's most active volcano. Standing at 9,340 feet, it offers breathtaking views of the Andes, but the hike is no walk in the park. The steep, icy slopes need crampons, an ice axe and a guide is mandatory for navigating the glacier crossings and loose volcanic scree.

You only get about 10 minutes to take it all in, and if the volcano has been active recently, you might even need a gas mask to endure the sulfur fumes. But if conditions are right, you're treated to a rare, jaw-dropping view of the steaming, lava-filled crater.

As we continue to draw our next adventure from the fishbowl, I cherish the thought that I'm not just instilling a sense of adventure in my teens but also teaching them to embrace the unknown and the unexpected — whether in life or travel.

• Apple TV+ has officially renewed "Ted Lasso" for a fourth season.
• The show's future was uncertain after the season three finale, which aired in 2023.
• Jason Sudeikis will return to the show. The rest of the cast has yet to be announced.

It's been almost two years since the season three finale of "Ted Lasso" aired.

But AFC Richmond fans now have a reason to celebrate once again, as Apple TV+ announced earlier this week that the Emmy-winning comedy will be back for a fourth season, with star Jason Sudeikis returning in the titular role.

"'Ted Lasso' has been nothing short of a juggernaut, inspiring a passionate fanbase all over the world, and delivering endless joy and laughter, all while spreading kindness, compassion and unwavering belief," Matt Cherniss, head of programming for Apple TV+, said in a statement announcing the show's return. "Everyone at Apple is thrilled to be continuing our collaboration with Jason and the brilliant creative minds behind this show."

Here's everything we know about the upcoming series.

Right now, only one returning cast member has been confirmed

Sudeikis, who also serves as an executive producer on the show, shared a rather Lasso-like statement while confirming his return.

"We all continue to live in a world where so many factors have conditioned us to 'look before we leap," Sudeikis said in a press release. "In Season 4, the folks at AFC Richmond learn to leap before they look, discovering that wherever they land, it's exactly where they're meant to be."

Brendan Hunt and Brett Goldstein will return as executive producers — with Goldstein also continuing to serve as a cowriter on the series — but it's not been confirmed whether they will also be back as cast members Beard and Roy Kent.

It's also not known whether the rest of the show's beloved ensemble, which includes Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, Nick Mohammed, and Phil Dunster, will reprise their roles.

However, one addition has been announced to the creative team. Jack Burditt, a TV producer who worked on the Netflix hit "Nobody Wants This," will join as an executive producer as part of a new overall deal with Apple TV+.

Season four will shift focus to a women's football team, Sudeikis has said

Sudeikis spoke about the new season on an episode of the "New Heights" podcast — hosted by former Philadelphia Eagles star Jason Kelce and his brother, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce — on Friday.

"We're writing season four now," Sudeikis said. "That's the official word. Ted's coaching a women's team."

When pushed for more details, including whether the new season would see his character come back to the US, Sudeikis said: "That's too many questions," adding: "I don't know."

The season three finale saw Ted return home to Kansas

"Ted Lasso," which debuted in 2020, became one of AppleTV+'s most-streamed shows over its initial three-season run.

The season three finale — which many believed was the closing chapter — aired in May 2023. While it was not officially billed as a show finale, it wrapped up many major storylines and saw Ted return home to Kansas to be closer to his son (Gus Turner).

Apple TV+ has not yet announced a premiere date for the new season and did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

• Scott Bessent told NBC News on Sunday that there are 'no guarantees' there won't be a recession.
• "Like, who would have predicted Covid, right?" he said.
• Bessent also expressed confidence in the stock market despite major fluctuations over the past week.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Sunday during an NBC News interview that there are "no guarantees" there won't be a recession. He also expressed confidence in the major stock indexes amid threats of a prolonged trade war.

"You know that there are no guarantees, like who would have predicted Covid, right?" Bessent told "Meet the Press" moderator Kristen Welker. "I can predict that we are putting in robust policies that will be durable, and there could be an adjustment."

Bessent said he was "not at all" worried about the state of the stock market, which has fluctuated dramatically since President Donald Trump ramped up his tariff threats.

"I've been in the investment business for 35 years, and I can tell you that corrections are healthy. They're normal," the treasury secretary said. "What's not healthy is straight up, that you get these euphoric markets. That's how you get a financial crisis."

"I'm not worried about the markets," he continued. "Over the long term, if we put good tax policy in place, deregulation, and energy security, the markets will do great."

In recent days, the S&P 500 has fallen over 10% from recent highs, while the Nasdaq composite has declined about 14% from its December 2024 high.

Trump, with some exceptions, has levied 25% tariffs against Canada and Mexico. He has also threatened 200% tariffs on European wine and spirits and placed 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States. Trump has imposed two rounds of 10% tariffs on China since February.

Trump also recently declined to shut down the possibility of a recession. "I hate to predict things like that," he said during a Fox News interview earlier this month. "There is a period of transition, because what we're doing is very big."

His comments led to another market downturn. Last week, the president changed his tune, telling reporters at the White House that he didn't foresee a recession.

"I don't see it at all. I think this country is going to boom," he said. "Markets are going to go up, and they're going to go down. But you know what? We have to rebuild our country."

• I became a mother at 18, despite never planning to have children.
• But I still prioritized my children, teaching them about culture and allowing them to be curious.
• My parenting must have worked because they're becoming successful adults.

When I was younger, I never wanted children. Being responsible for another person felt overwhelming and exhausting. Honestly, becoming a parent was not for me, especially because I wasn't motherly.

But there I was, at 18, pregnant with my first child. Impatient and easily annoyed, I was about to become a mother. With a growing belly, I attended my senior prom and high school graduation, watching my classmates embrace their newfound freedom while I faced a completely different reality.

The moment I found out I was pregnant, I knew one thing for sure: If I was going to do this, I had to do it right. There was no room for half-assing motherhood. I had seen too many examples of what happened when people weren't intentional about raising kids, and I refused to let my child become a product of neglect or lack of guidance. Thankfully, it all worked out in the end.

I decided to embrace motherhood with determination

Parenting is a delicate balance. I had to not repeat the same mistakes my parents made while unintentionally making an entirely new set of mistakes. Still, my husband and I were determined to create a home prioritizing love, discipline, and honesty.

We approached parenting with a clear goal: We would lead by example.

I was young, but I wasn't clueless. If I wanted my (now two) children to take school seriously, they had to see me taking life seriously. So, I set the standard. I worked hard, remained curious, and showed them what perseverance looked like.

I tried expanding their minds beyond the classroom

Beyond academics, I wanted them to have a well-rounded perspective on life. I gave them an appreciation for older music and different genres. Most kids their age know nothing about "Hotel California" or The Rolling Stones, but my kids do. I taught them to listen to the actual words of a song — not just the beat. Music is storytelling, and I wanted them to appreciate the artistry behind it.

I also taught them how to think for themselves, to question everything, and to not blindly follow what everyone else was doing. We had deep conversations about the world, about decision-making, and about the importance of logic.

They saw all the movies I loved growing up, including my favorites, "Forrest Gump" and "Clueless."

I exposed them to all types of food so they could learn about different cultures and ways of cooking. I hoped they'd become curious about the world beyond their immediate environment.

My husband and I balanced each other out

To be honest, I was never a "fun mom." My neurodivergence made me avoid crowds, and when I did try to be fun, it usually didn't turn out well. I wasn't the mom signing up for every school event or planning extravagant parties. That wasn't and still isn't my thing.

My husband, on the other hand, was the field trip dad. He chaperoned school outings, ensuring the kids had fun experiences while I recharged at home. He was also the homework helper when I just needed time to breathe. We balanced each other out.

Raising kids has never been about perfection. We realized it's about being present, accountable, and honest. I never sugarcoated life for my children. I told them the truth, showed them the consequences of their actions, and reminded them that while they were loved unconditionally, expectations still had to be met. There were rules, but there was also space for laughter, real conversations, and the understanding that we were all growing together.

My kids are now excelling

I must have done something right. My 21-year-old daughter is currently in her junior year at one of Maryland's top universities, excelling in her studies as a pre-med public health major.

My younger daughter, now in 11th grade, scored an impressive score on her PSAT and even received a letter from Stanford University inviting her to a summer program.

Looking back, I realize that the version of me at 18 — the one who never wanted kids, who feared she wasn't "motherly" enough — had no idea what she was truly capable of.

Parenthood wasn't something that came naturally to me, but I showed up every day, committed to doing my best. And, if my kids' success is any measure of how I did, I'd say I didn't do too bad after all.

• We first visited Legoland in Florida, and my kids were more into it than Disney World.
• We've since also gone to Legoland New York and San Diego, and have enjoyed all three parks.
• Still, there are a few reasons Legoland Florida is my favorite of the three.

The first time we visited a Legoland park, it wasn't really even on our radar.

It happened to be next to the brand-new Peppa Pig amusement park in Florida that my husband and I wanted to take our kids to. Our kids loved the show, and the park seemed age-appropriate for our then 4-year-old and 2-year-old twins.

The park was next to Legoland Florida, and tickets for both parks were pretty affordable, especially compared to Disney World, so we went there, too.

Our kids loved the Legoland park so much that we ended up taking them to the one in California and New York in later years.

Here's how the three parks compare, and which I love the most.

The parks have some overlap, though they offer slightly different experiences.

As parks from the same franchise, all three Legolands feature very similar attractions.

Although the layouts are different, and the order in which you enter each world may vary, you pretty much can expect very similar experiences in all three.

They all have a land that features miniature versions of iconic places in the world. All three have different landmarks, but kids still get to walk around and explore the miniature buildings.

The "Ninjago" ride is exactly the same in all three parks (ask me how I know — it's my oldest's favorite show), and it's a crowd-pleaser.

All three parks also have The Dragon, a coaster for kids ages 6 to 13.

However, each seemed to have at least one notable, unique attraction.

In California, the one ride that stood out the most for both my oldest and myself was a submarine ride called LEGO CITY: Deep Sea Adventure. We got to enter a submarine and explore real and Lego block creatures underwater.

In New York, we rode The Dragon's Apprentice, a roller coaster for younger kids (3 to 5 years old). It was as much of a thrill as my twins could handle.

In Florida, we all enjoyed hiding from the sun and heat at the Pharaoh's Revenge Land of Adventure, an indoor play area where kids can climb, run through tunnels, and load foam balls into tubes.

There's more to do in all three parks than just go on rides.

When we visited our first Legoland, my twins were just a little over 2 years old. I worried there wouldn't be much for them to do at the park. Thankfully, I was wrong.

All across the three parks, there are tons of things for kids to do and discover beyond the rides.

First of all, they all have figurines from Lego shows that are ready to pose with for photos. My son has a photo of the same punk-rocker sculpture in all three parks.

The parks also offer seasonal events. We visited Legoland New York during its Brick or Treat Halloween special. The park was full of skeletons and pumpkin decorations the kids could pose with and play with.

Plus, each has building stations throughout the property where kids can build with Lego blocks and earn badges.

It's worth staying at the hotel no matter which location you choose.

I won't lie, I'm a sucker for a themed anything, so when we first walked into the hotel adjacent to Legoland Florida, I was sold.

The hotel is decorated with Lego blocks and even has pools of blocks kids can get into and play with.

After that stay, we stayed in the Legoland hotels in New York and Orlando as well.

It's clear that the rooms in all three were designed with family in mind. This was especially important for me as standard hotel-room layouts usually don't easily accommodate a family of five like mine.

For example, the bunk beds have a roll-out bed to fit three kids in one room — which is rare in my traveling experience.

The rooms we stayed at had a kid's area separate from a space for adults, so my husband and I could watch television or read a book without fear of waking the kids.

The hotels all helped keep my family fed and entertained.

Walking into the rooms, my kids squealed in excitement. While there are different themes, we were always assigned the pirates' room. There are also Lego Dreamz and Ninjago-themed rooms.

My kids loved that the rooms had a safe, where we had to crack a code by answering questions about the space (for example, how many ladybugs were hidden in it). Inside the safe, there was a complimentary Lego set for each of them.

There's a restaurant at all three hotels that's also fully decorated with Lego characters which my kids loved.

The food wasn't that impressive, but I appreciated that we could get a quick bite after a long day of playing without having to leave the premises.

All that said, my favorite park was Legoland Florida.

Although all three parks kept my kids entertained and busy, my personal favorite was the one in Florida.

The California park is the first Legoland to open in the US, in 1999, so certain parts of it feel a bit outdated and old. It's also smaller, and although that allowed us to explore the entire property (except for the water park area) in half a day, I left wanting more of an experience.

We saw fewer characters walking around, and the stores felt pretty bare bones — but this could also be because our visit was near closing time.

The New York park in Goshen is the newest, having opened in 2021. I like that it's just a short trip away from New York City. We visited on a Friday, thinking it would be less crowded than the weekend, but we were wrong.

The lines were incredibly long, and we barely got to do any attractions. We later found out that day was a school holiday in New York, which partially explained the chaos.

However, the crowds didn't feel like such a big deal in the Florida park — maybe because it's the biggest of the three. It opened in 2011 and has over 50 rides for a wide range of ages.

Legoland Florida reminded us of Disney parks the most in a few ways, like its larger size and wide range of activities. I also found its gift shops had a bigger variety of items to purchase.

Plus, Legoland Florida being next to Peppa Pig Land is a huge plus for those with younger kids.

• Many celebrities have spoken proudly of their Irish roots.
• Stars including Gwen Stefani, Barack Obama, and Robert De Niro all have Irish ancestors.
• These 17 celebrities claim to hail from the land of Guinness, and some even have DNA proof.

Robert De Niro may be considered the face of Italian-American talent, but he's actually more Irish than Italian.

Ahead of the release of his 2019 film "The Irishman," De Niro told The Irish Times he'd recently learned he hailed from "somewhere near Tipperary."

"I was happy to hear that," he added. "I like the countryside round there."

He's not the only celebrity to have claimed a link to Ireland; stars including John Travolta, Anna Kendrick, and Olivia Wilde have all spoken of their Irish roots.

Ahead of St. Patrick's Day, here are 17 celebrities you might not have realized are Irish.

Amy Daire and Victoria Montalti contributed to a previous version of this post.

Nicole Kidman has Australian, Hawaiian, Scottish, and Irish influences in her life.

When you think of Kidman, the first thing you think of might be her Australian accent. But the movie star actually has a surprisingly mixed ancestry, including Irish blood.

Speaking to Independent.ie in 2014, Kidman said her father's ancestors traveled from Ireland to Australia as free settlers in 1839.

"I'm very proud of that being part of our heritage, that we were the people that were willing to do that and explore new horizons," she said.

"We definitely have, on my father's side, a strong Irish slant. We come from the line of the Callaghors and, obviously, how I look, you know, I have Irish skin," Kidman said. "Then on my mother's side I have all the Scottish blood," she added.

Kidman famously starred in "Far and Away" — with an Irish accent — alongside then-husband Tom Cruise in 1991.

She also filmed "The Northman," which was released in 2022, in Northern Ireland.

Rosario Dawson says she's "more Irish than anything."

In 2011, Dawson posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, to let everyone know her roots, saying she was "more Irish than anything."

Despite not growing up with her biological father, she is still interested in their shared Irish homeland, and she has been there at least three times. 

"My biological father is Irish and, I don't know, I never got to know him, but for me it was always one of the reasons I came [to Ireland] years ago and have come again," she said during a 2016 Irish Independent interview while visiting the country. 

Christina Aguilera might be better known for her Ecuadorian roots, but her mother is Irish.

While Aguilera's Latin roots get most of the attention, especially because of her Spanish-language albums, that's not her only ancestral homeland. Her mother is Irish-American and she previously revealed that Aguilera has embraced that side of herself too. 

"A lot of people get all in a fuss about Christina wanting to explore her Latin side and not mentioning her Irish side much, but that's only logical," her mother, Shelly Kearns, told Irish America in 2008. "She has no need to go exploring her Irish heritage because she has always known it."

In August 2018, Aguilera shared an Instagram post from Dublin, captioned, "Proud of my [Irish] roots" with an Irish flag.

Actress and model Emily Ratajkowski's family calls Cork home.

Ratajkowski first gained international fame for her work in Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines" video in 2013.

While many would place her roots in an Eastern European country thanks to her last name, Ratajkowski's family is actually from Ireland.

"I absolutely love Ireland. It's one of the most beautiful places on earth and I have strong ties here," she said while speaking to the Irish Independent in 2013. "Both my grandmothers are from Ireland and I have spent every summer in Bantry since my father, who is an artist, had the romantic idea 20 years ago to buy an old farmhouse on the west coast and renovate it."

"I go back any time I get the opportunity and I have many friends who I still hang out with in the local pubs," she continued. "I have great childhood memories cow-tipping, going off and getting lost in the bog for hours and coming home covered in dirt."

Barack Obama's great-great-granddad hailed from Ireland in 1850.

In 2007, then-presidential hopeful Obama found out he was part Irish. It turns out, his great-great-grandfather, Falmouth Kearney, traveled from Ireland to Liverpool, and then to America in 1850.

The president honored his heritage with a trip to Kearney's hometown, Moneygall, in 2011, where he sipped on Guinness and met some of the 300-odd residents of the town. 

He's made this a running joke for years now, which is why his introduction at the bar was more than fitting. 

"My name is Barack Obama, of the Moneygall Obamas, and I've come home to find the apostrophe we lost somewhere along the way," he said, NPR reported.

Demi Lovato tweeted about her surprising ethnicity after taking a DNA test.

The singer discovered her Irish heritage in 2017, after submitting DNA for testing. When the results came back, Lovato posted on X that she is Spanish, Native American, Scandinavian, British, Irish, and one percent African, which some followers were quick to criticize.

Her mother, Mother Dianna De La Garza, has shared that she is of Irish and English descent.

Olivia Wilde vacationed in Ireland growing up and took her stage name from Irish poet Oscar Wilde.

American actress and filmmaker Wilde has Irish roots and holds an Irish passport. 

Wilde's grandfather Claud Cockburn was an Irish novelist, and her father, Andrew Cockburn, is a journalist who moved from Ireland to Washington, DC, to continue his career and raise his family.

But Wilde's Irish roots remained strong. Every summer during her childhood, she'd vacation in Ardmore, a fishing village in County Waterford, Ireland.

"I feel like the luckiest child in the world because I got to grow up there. In summer is when you really grow up," she told the Irish Independent in 2010. "I credit a lot of my growth as a child and a lot of my happiness with the people I was surrounded by in Ireland," she said.

This inspired Wilde to study at Dublin's Gaiety School of Acting, where she specialized in Irish playwrights. Her stage name, Wilde, was even chosen because of the Irish poet Oscar Wilde.

It may be surprising to learn that Robert De Niro is more Irish than Italian.

Although the acting legend is viewed as the face of Italian-American talent, he's actually mostly Irish. In fact, three of his grandparents are of Irish descent, according to the Irish Post. His mother's parents were fully Irish and his father's parents were the Irish Helen O'Reilly and Italian Henry De Niro.

De Niro even ventured through Ireland as a teenager to find his distant relatives. In 1962, he hitchhiked from Dublin to Galway and then traveled to the Aran Islands to search some more.

"People gave me blankets for sleeping outside," the "Godfather" star told Irish Central in 2007. "I had breakfast with them in the morning. They were very friendly, yeah, and I had a great time," he continued.

In 2019, De Niro played real-life Irish crime boss Frank Sheeran in the film "The Irishman," which gave the actor a chance to get in touch with his Irish roots, rather than his more famous Italian ones.

Alicia Keys may also be a little bit Irish.

Singing sensation Keys thinks she's got some of the good ol' Irish luck in her.

"Actually I'm not Latina, even though I would love to be and many people do think I am," she told Star Tribune back in a 2008 interview.

"A lot of people believe I'm part Jamaican, though I'm not. I'm definitely Black and Italian and a little Irish or Scottish. Being of mixed background influences everything in my life and music," she said.

John Travolta revealed he's half-Irish and half-Italian in 2010.

During his press tour for "From Paris With Love," Travolta talked about how well he'd gotten along with his cast mate and Irish actor Jonathan Rhys Meyers.

"We're so gabby. I'm half-Irish and half-Italian and the Irish side comes out with Jonathan," he told The Sydney Morning Herald in 2010. "We just gab and the movie was interfering with our conversations."

Mariah Carey's mother, Patricia Hickey, was born to Irish parents.

Carey has opened up about the struggles of being both Black and Irish. 

"White people have a difficult time with [being biracial]. It's like, my mother's white — she's so Irish, she loves Ireland, she's like, yay, Ireland! Waving the flag and singing 'When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.' And that's great. I appreciate that and respect it," Carey said during a 2009 interview with The Guardian.

"There's a whole other side of me that makes me who I am and makes people uncomfortable," she continued. "My father identified as a Black man. No one asked him because he was clearly Black."

"But people always ask me. If we were together, people would look at us in a really strange way. As a little girl I had blonde hair and they'd look at me, look at him, and be disgusted," Carey said.

Despite his questionable accent in "Far and Away," Tom Cruise is actually of Irish descent.

During the press tour for "Oblivion" in 2013, Cruise visited Ireland and learned even more about his ancestry. He said he loved Ireland and was thrilled about his newfound family history.

"It was incredible. As a gift, they went and researched my family. It was an amazing story. These two wonderful women did this as a gift for me," he told Jimmy Kimmel in 2013.

"They gave me a [certificate] saying this and traced my family back to the ninth century. I had no idea it went back that far," Cruise continued. "They showed me a picture where the foundation of the castle was — they said my family owned most of Dublin at a certain point. It was unbelievable."

Anna Kendrick's family's original last name was McGinn Connolly.

Anna Kendrick, perhaps best known for the "Pitch Perfect" franchise and "Into the Woods," is of Irish, Scottish, and English descent, and her father's family originally had a very Irish surname.

"I'm actually supposed to be McGinn Connolly. So, Kendrick is a made-up name that they chose when they came to the states," Kendrick said in a 2016 JOE.ie interview with fellow Irish costar Ben Affleck.

She was raised in an Irish and Italian neighborhood and had many Irish influences growing up. Kendrick told RTE in 2016 that her father is very patriotic.

"He's not from Ireland but he's 100% Irish and very into being Irish and loving [Irish playwright] Martin McDonagh," she said.

Despite her very Italian last name, Gwen Stefani also has some Irish blood coursing through her veins.

Stefani's dad is Italian, which is where her surname comes from, but on her mother's side, it's all Irish and Scottish, which explains her traditional upbringing.

"I grew up, like, a Catholic good girl. Total 'Brady Bunch' family," she said to Vogue in 2008 while discussing her family and upbringing. "That always kind of scared me, the pressure of having to be so cool," Stefani continued.

"Glee" star Darren Criss is part Filipino, part Irish.

He hasn't spoken out too much about his Irish descent, but Criss has been pretty vocal about being Filipino. He's even visited his family there several times. 

In 2010, he told Spot, "I'm not from the Philippines but I have this bizarre kinship. As soon as I got off the plane, I was like, 'Ah, this is me back in the Philippines,'" he said. "I love this place. It's cool. Whatever Filipino blood (I have) in me, it's very happy to be here."

Criss' late father was English, German, and Irish. He got to channel his ancestors in a very small part on "Archer," playing an Irish mobster in a short scene. 

On St. Patrick's Day in 2021, he also posted a video discussing the recent influx of attacks against Asian Americans, titled, "Thoughts From An Asian and Irish Guy On A Day Of Tragedy," and said, "The other half of me is Irish, I'm half-Irish."

Miranda Cosgrove is part Irish, among other ethnicities.

Cosgrove, best known for her roles in "iCarly," "Drake and Josh," and "School of Rock," answered a fan's question about her roots in 2009.

"[I'm] Irish, English, and French. People always think im a lot of different nationalities though which I think is pretty cool :)," she wrote on X.

Anne Hathaway feels "quite a bit Irish."

In 2014, Hathaway spoke about her Irish cousins and how she feels "quite a bit Irish" on "Newstalk," an Irish radio show. She also spoke about how Irish blood is flowing through her.

"My mother's maiden name is McAuley, and my grandmother's name was Sinnott," she said. Both are family names with roots in Ireland.

• My family, my brother's family, and some cousins booked a weeklong trip at an all-inclusive resort.
• Traveling in a group had a lot of advantages, including giving the kids some independence.
• That said, traveling with multiple families can take more work and has some challenges.

This past Thanksgiving, my family traveled with my brother's family, which included his wife and two children, and our adult cousins to Beaches Negril in Jamaica.

The 20-acre all-inclusive resort is located on the western coastline of the island on Seven-Mile Beach and had everything we needed on-site — accommodations, multiple restaurants and cafés, pools, and activities for adults and kids.

Since our three families live in different parts of the US, we each made our own travel arrangements and arrived on the same day at different times.

Although traveling as a big group can be tricky, we'd absolutely do it again — especially if the destination is an all-inclusive resort.

We quickly discovered that multi-family traveling has its perks

The resort felt like a manageable size, and everyone in our group stayed busy — including the kids, who got a taste of independence on the property.

Since there were three tweens on our trip, our families felt safe permitting them to do some activities together without adult supervision.

They enjoyed the freedom to go to the on-site ice cream shop and the café, play miniature golf and shuffleboard, and participate in resort-organized beach volleyball and dance parties on their own.

We also found that when an adult in our group wanted to do an activity, they would sometimes bring all the children with them. This allowed different groups to bond and for parents to take turns relaxing.

For example, my husband and I took our daughter, niece, and nephew snorkeling while their parents enjoyed some beach time.

Later in the trip, my daughter had a blast with her cousins, aunt, and uncle on the lazy river and water slides while my husband and I went paddle boarding.

It was also fun to divide into smaller groups based on who was most interested in which restaurants.

One night, a few of us went out for sushi while one group went to the Caribbean seafood spot, and another enjoyed made-to-order Neapolitan pizzas.

As part of a big group, we also got to share and try more dishes when we dined together without wasting food. At the property's family-style Peruvian restaurant, we ordered nearly the entire menu.

One of my favorite family memories of the trip is still passing around the various plates, tasting many different dishes, and talking about our favorites throughout the dinner.

Still, visiting an all-inclusive resort with multiple families takes work

Most of the resort's restaurants can accommodate walk-ups, but a few require reservations for dinner. A larger group can definitely make this more challenging and require extra flexibility with restaurant choices and dining times.

Also, here (and at many similar resorts), you can't make dining reservations before your stay. I suggest trying to do so upon arrival so you have the most options.

If you're in a larger group, you'll also want to consider transportation needs if you venture off of resort property, especially if you prefer to travel together.

We were able to book a passenger van for our trips off-site, which was ideal.

Overall, we'd do it all again

We all had such a great time that we wanted to take advantage of the resort's incentive to book a future trip before departing.

However, we were quickly reminded that it takes a lot of time to agree on which destination to go to next and, most challenging of all, find dates that accommodate everyone's schedules.

• At 30, I'd given up on love and planned to move abroad.
• Living in London, I tried not to talk to anyone on public transport.
• I asked a stranger for the time, and minutes later, he was asking for my phone number.

The day my life changed, I was working in public relations for an international wildlife charity. I'd lived in London since graduating from university, and taking the was part of my daily routine. bus home. It was a busy line, so I was usually squished against the luggage rack behind the driver. To pass the time, I'd listen to music and stare out the window, fantasizing about the future.

I was doing that on a warm June evening when Will got on and squeezed in between me and the other commuters.

I liked him instantly

It was one thing for our eyes to meet on a crowded bus; admitting that he was tall, dark, and handsome is as clichéd as it gets. But I liked him instantly; he had an open, kind face and a calming presence. The most surprising reaction I had was a voice inside my head that said, "Oh, there you are!" as if I'd been waiting for an old friend to arrive.

But I dismissed this because it sounded kooky and deluded. I was 30, single, emotionally bruised from a break-up with a very unsuitable person, and in the process of packing up my life to work in Sydney, 10,000 miles away. The instant sense of ease and familiarity I felt when I saw Will was just my mind playing tricks. I naturally presumed he was engaged/married/cohabiting, and it didn't cross my mind to find out. When I caught his eye, and he smiled, I smiled back and turned away (blushing furiously).

And that's when fate intervened.

I asked him the time

My iPod ran out of battery, so I put it in my bag and took out my phone. The battery had also died — odd, it was half-full when I left the office — so I checked my watch to see what time it was. It had stopped working. So, because he was the closest person to me, I asked him for the time. It was just after 7, he said. He smiled, and I smiled. He started to say something, and I mentally willed him to ask me out, but the bus pulled up to his stop, and he shrugged apologetically and got off. There he goes, I thought, back to the lovely girlfriend I'd imagined for him. The doors closed, and he was gone. The bus lurched forward,d and I said my goodbyes.

Moments later, there was a frantic knock on the window, and the doors reopened. Will pushed his way through the crowd toward me. He said he'd never done this before, but was I single? And if so, could he have my number?

After we'd exchanged details and he'd got off the bus (again), a worried-looking woman warned me about giving my number out to random men. I'd normally agree — I'd lived in the city long enough to know not to encourage strangers; I only dated men I met through friends. Instead, I reassured her that he wasn't a weirdo. How do you know, she asked. I just did.

I knew I was going to marry him

On my walk home, I called my sister and said I'd met the man I was going to marry. I thought she'd laugh, but she didn't question it. Will and I were engaged five months later, and the following Januar,y we began a six-month trip backpacking around Australia and New Zealand (that was the compromise, instead of me working abroad for two years). We married, and have been together 21 years. These days, he's tall, gray and handsome, which is fine by me, and we're still in love.

I later found out that Will was helping a friend who'd moved into my neighborhood, so it wasn't his regular route. He'd chased after another bus but missed it by seconds — meanwhile, I'd turned down a post-work drink (unusual move on my part) and just caught the bus we both took. Were we meant to be? I like to think so.

• Ireland is known for its hearty cuisine, such as stews and potato pancakes.
• Colcannon, for example, is a twist on traditional mashed potatoes that's made with butter and cream.
• Irish soda bread is one food you can find in the United States around St Patrick's Day.

Some traditional Irish foods, such as hearty stews and comforting potato dishes, are less likely to be found stateside.

Ahead of St. Patrick's Day, Business Insider looked at recipes from across the Emerald Isle to find the most unusual yet tasty dishes you need to try at least once in your lifetime. 

Many of these filling dishes won't break the bank, either — some recipes use up leftovers, while others rely on low-cost, bulk ingredients such as potatoes and cabbage.

Here are 13 mouthwatering Irish recipes that Americans are missing out on.

Dublin coddle is a warm stew made up of leftovers that makes for a perfect comfort dish.

Dublin coddle is a traditional Irish stew that derives its name from the "coddling," or simmering, of ingredients in a pot for hours during its preparation. This dish normally comprises leftovers such as sausage, bacon, potatoes, and onions.

Irish soda bread is a staple in Irish homes, especially around St. Patrick's Day.

Despite what its name implies, Irish soda bread actually has the consistency of a scone or a biscuit. This is, at least in part, because Irish soda bread is leavened using baking soda rather than traditional yeast.

The bread was an easy and affordable staple for people living in poverty-stricken Ireland during the mid-19th century, The Society for the Preservation of Irish Soda Bread reported.

But the Daily Journal of Kankakee, Illinois, reported that Native Americans were actually responsible for the recipe, ultimately inspiring Irish immigrants who took it back to Ireland.

While traditional recipes use flour, salt, baking soda, and buttermilk, other varieties incorporate honey, sugar, fruit, seeds, or even Guinness.

Barmbrack is an Irish fruitcake typically served with afternoon tea.

Barmbrack, or brack for short, is an Irish dessert bread. Filled with raisins and spices and then soaked in tea and whiskey, this delicious treat is a staple for Halloween, the Irish Times reported.

Following tradition, the Irish fill their barmbrack with coins and other trinkets. Whatever you end up biting into — be it a coin, ring, pea, rag, or stick — is said to show what your year will bring.

Boxty is an Irish take on potato pancakes.

Boxty is often eaten as part of a traditional Irish breakfast. The starchy pancake is made with finely grated raw potatoes and fried.

Colcannon is a twist on traditional mashed potatoes that's made with butter and cream, as well as kale, cabbage, or scallions.

Most colcannon recipes recommend making a well in the center of the mashed potatoes and filling the indent with butter before you serve the dish.

Champ is another Irish variation on classic mashed potatoes.

While colcannon is made with kale, cabbage, or scallions, champ recipes just call for the addition of scallions.

Like colcannon, champ is also typically served with a generous helping of butter in the middle of the dish.

Boiled bacon and cabbage is the traditional Irish dish that corned beef and cabbage is based on.

Thick cuts of salted pork are boiled alongside heaps of cabbage to produce this delicious Irish meal.

This dish is such a classic, in fact, that Irish Americans have turned it into their own St. Patrick's Day staple of corned beef and cabbage.

Irish cuisine typically includes two types of sausage: white and black pudding.

Typically made with pig's blood, pork fat, and cereal, black pudding is a popular meat item in many parts of Europe.

White pudding is made with almost everything black pudding is, except the blood.

Many pubs and restaurants serve carvery dinners.

Many eateries across Ireland and Northern Ireland are famous for their carvery dinners, where diners can get roasted meat to order. The meal also typically includes mashed or roasted potatoes, vegetables, and gravy.

Since Ireland and Northern Ireland are surrounded by water, there's an abundance of fresh shellfish and seafood.

Oysters, prawns, scallops, and lobsters are just some of the shellfish varieties you can find.

Traditional Irish stew is a staple you'll find everywhere on the Emerald Isle.

Traditionally made with mutton, this signature Irish dish is now commonly made with lamb.

Irish stew is a fairly standard comfort meal, complete with meat, potatoes, onions, and carrots. But some chefs have been known to add Guinness to mix things up.

Shepherd’s pie has made its way stateside, but the hearty meal is a classic across the pond.

This filling but delectable meal features mashed potatoes layered on top of ground meat.

The meal originates from Ireland and has been prepared since the late 1700s, when rural women would create it to repurpose leftovers from Sunday's roast dinner, Britannica reported.

Traditional Irish recipes include ground lamb as the base, but Americans often use ground beef or turkey as a substitute.

Bangers and mash is a quintessentially British dish, but it's also popular in Ireland.

Bangers and mash might be more closely associated with British culture, but the Irish also love this traditional pub food. Consisting of sausages and mashed potatoes, or even colcannon, you're likely to find this dish in pubs across the country.

• SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft docked at the International Space Station on Sunday.
• Its arrival paves the way for stranded astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to return home.
• The pair have been stuck on the ISS for more than nine months.

SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft successfully docked at the International Space Station on Sunday, clearing the way for stranded US astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to return home after more than nine months in space.

The Crew-10 mission arrived at the ISS around 29 hours after launching from Florida's Kennedy Space Center on Friday evening, carrying NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Russian cosmonaut Kirill Peskov.

A livestream of their arrival showed joyous scenes as they entered the ISS and embraced the Expedition 72 crew members — including Wilmore and Williams — on board.

Wilmore and Williams' mission, which had been scheduled to last just eight days, has seen them stranded on the ISS since June 2024.

NASA and Boeing had identified helium leaks and issues with the thrusters of the Starliner spacecraft that took the pair to the ISS as it approached the space station, leading the agency to decide to return it uncrewed to minimize risk and gather data.

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft safely returned to Earth in September, touching down at the White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico.

Wilmore and Williams have spent their extended time on the ISS supporting station research, maintenance, and Starliner system testing and data analysis, according to NASA.

The pair will return to earth no earlier than Wednesday, March 19, following a handover period with the Crew-10 members, the agency said.

They will be joined by American astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, who arrived in September.

The Crew-10 astronauts are set to spend roughly the next six months on the ISS, carrying out scientific research and testing to help prepare humans for future missions to space.

• I uploaded the entire chat history between my boyfriend and me to ChatGPT.
• The AI system said my boyfriend loves me, communicates better, and puts in more effort.
• ChatGPT analyzed our conversation based on a set of rules, so I'll keep the advice in mind.

Ask my best friend, and she'll confirm that I run everything by her. Over many tumultuous years, we've spent hours on video calls picking apart texts from men — analyzing, advising, and ultimately picking up the pieces. So when I stumbled across a Reel about someone using ChatGPT for ruthless relationship feedback, I was sold.

I learned that the trick is simple: You upload your WhatsApp chat history and request juicy insights into the relationship.

Apart from throwing data privacy to the wind, I was under the illusion that the results couldn't be too shocking. Greg and I have been dating for a year, and everything has been smooth sailing in our romantic relationship.

He was equally intrigued by the concept, though, so we decided to test ChatGPT together.

There wasn't even much to analyze, we rationalized — right? Boy, were we wrong.

Luckily, ChatGPT confirmed that my boyfriend does love me

With our WhatsApp history extracted and uploaded into ChatGPT, Greg and I stared blankly at the empty screen. With all the prowess of a giggling teen, I typed, "Does Greg love me?" It was not my finest question, but it was genuinely all I could initially muster.

ChatGPT was quicker out of the gates. It instantly informed us that it would scan the file for evidence of explicit declarations, consistent emotional investment, and sacrificial effort. After a brief pause (not unlike waiting on a Magic 8 ball answer), the fortunate answer was yes.

However, as logical as ever, ChatGPT also provided a list of examples — snatching evidence from our chat. Reassurance and care? Commitment and support? Each had a supporting quote in italics.

In under five seconds, it had analyzed all 23,299 messages and neatly ordered its findings in a tick list.

"Greg is emotionally invested in you and has expressed love directly and consistently. His messages show that he cares deeply, wants to support you, and values your relationship," ChatGPT summarized.

It suggested that we are both emotionally available but display it differently

According to ChatGPT, emotional availability was almost a level playing field. The system noted the difference in our personalities and approaches.

While Greg demonstrates his emotional openness through action, I use words and deep conversation. In short, I might talk about feelings, whereas Greg is likelier to initiate check-ins or plan activities.

In doing so, the AI system gave Greg the healthiest communicator title.

"Greg's communication might be slightly more 'textbook healthy,'" ChatGPT revealed, citing his patience, flexibility, and clockwork morning messages.

ChatGPT said my boyfriend puts in more effort overall

Quietly declining to input a question until now, Greg leaned over. "Who cares more?" he typed.

The answer was humbling: Greg puts in more effort and, therefore, cares more. It felt like a blow to both of us, but the reasoning was interesting. There was a huge discrepancy in questions; Greg had asked 4,541, while I'd only sent 2,175.

I've got to admit that I've always felt bad for letting Greg take the lead with communication. It has come up briefly in difficult conversations before, but he has always insisted that he finds the dynamic comfortable. Who knew ChatGPT would be the reason we'd properly revisit our communication expectations?

Sure enough, balancing the initiation of conversation was the first piece of advice it had for improving our relationship. "Eib could take more initiative in reaching out first. This would help Greg feel equally pursued and appreciated," ChaptGPT suggested.

Laidback as ever, Greg laughed it off. "I don't mind," he said. I believe him, but I'm secretly glad I got that feedback so I can make some changes.

ChatGPT was more useful than expected

ChatGPT's analytical perspective was both interesting and insightful, but I had to probe a bit further.

"How reliable is your dating advice?" I asked.

The response came instantly: "My dating advice is based on psychology, relationship research, and real-world patterns, but, like any advice, it's not one-size-fits-all."

While acknowledging the importance of gut feelings and human context, ChatGPT provided an admittedly compelling self-case. Its technology utilizes insights from Attachment Theory, and its capacity to process thousands of messages enables it to spot patterns effectively.

"Unlike friends who might sugarcoat things or project their own experiences, I analyze patterns without personal bias," ChatGPT replied.

The results were humbling, to say the least. I, for one, will pay more attention to how I communicate with my partner in the future.

• I've been living in Europe for a few years, and have tried to visit as many cities as possible.
• I enjoyed spending time in places like Prague and Hvar, Croatia, and can't wait to return.
• However, I was a little disappointed by my visits to Marseille, France, and Stockholm.

One of the biggest perks of living in Europe for the past couple of years has been the ease of hopping on a flight to explore new destinations.

During my time here, I've visited 26 cities in countries like France, Portugal, Iceland, Croatia, Sweden, and the Czech Republic.

Each destination brought something unique to the table, but unfortunately, not every experience lived up to my expectations.

Here are the four cities I'd return to in a heartbeat — and two I'd probably skip next time.

I loved visiting Faro, Portugal.

Located in the Algarve region of Portugal, Faro is a vacation hot spot with gorgeous beaches, unique architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere.

One of the highlights of my trip was walking along the cliffs for an hour with a friend to find a secluded beach. The views were magical, and the experience felt like something out of a dream.

Faro's warm weather and welcoming charm make it a place I'd gladly return to.

I'd happily revisit Reykjavik, Iceland.

Iceland is known as being a pricy tourist destination, but my visit was worth every penny. The capital, Reykjavik, is packed with charm and incredibly walkable.

The local cuisine, including fresh seafood and lamb, was some of the best I've had in Europe. What stood out the most, though, were the unplanned magical moments.

One night, after leaving a karaoke bar, I looked up to see the northern lights dancing across the sky. It was an awe-inspiring experience that felt almost surreal. That kind of spontaneous magic makes Iceland a place I'd visit again and again.

Hvar, Croatia, is unlike anywhere else I've been.

Croatia is a dream for beach lovers, and the island of Hvar was definitely a highlight of my trip.

Hvar combines charming cobblestone streets, fantastic restaurants, and dreamy beaches with crystal-clear water.

The surrounding smaller islands are just as stunning, offering secluded spots to relax and unwind.

On this trip, I stepped out of my comfort zone by visiting a nude beach, and even made new friends who shared my love for exploring.

Hvar's blend of adventure and relaxation has earned it a permanent spot on my list of favorite European travel destinations.

Prague felt like a fairytale.

In my opinion, Prague's fairytale-like architecture, vibrant nightlife, and rich history make it a top contender for one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

Walking through Old Town Square feels like stepping back in time, and every corner of the city holds something fascinating.

The food scene is also worth mentioning — traditional Czech dishes like goulash and trdelník (chimney cake) are must-try items.

Despite spending a few days there, I felt like I barely scratched the surface of what the city has to offer.

However, I'm not rushing to return to Marseille, France.

Although France is brimming with beauty and culture, my visit to Marseille felt a bit lackluster. The city's architecture is undeniably stunning, but Marseille seemed to lack anything that made it truly special.

Exploring the city can also be a workout — it's very hilly, and unless you're prepared for a lot of uphill walking, it can be a bit exhausting.

Next time, I'd prioritize neighboring French spots like Aix-en-Provence or Nice instead.

Unfortunately, Stockholm didn't live up to my expectations.

I had heard so much about Stockholm and couldn't wait to visit. However, I left feeling a bit underwhelmed.

The city is undeniably beautiful, with its waterways and historic buildings, but it lacked the spark I hoped for. After visiting a few other Nordic cities, Stockholm just felt a bit monotonous.

• Big Tech companies are investing heavily in quantum computing research and development.
• Quantum computers aren't fault-tolerant yet, but the tech giants say they're nearing a breakthrough.
• Advocates say quantum computers could revolutionize many industries if they achieve their potential.

You're not alone if you've been hearing the buzz about quantum computing and wondering what it means or why it matters.

The rapidly evolving field remains deeply technical, expensive to advance, and not yet particularly useful for anyone other than researchers. While small-scale quantum computers exist, Big Tech companies — including IBM, Amazon, Microsoft, and Google — are racing to scale them up to commercial relevance.

Their investments are intended to usher in a new generation of ultra-powerful computers capable of performing advanced computations impossible for classical computers. While some researchers argue sufficient advancement in the field could someday usher in science-fiction-sounding outcomes such as time travel, there's a broader consensus that, sooner rather than later, quantum computing will bring about major advancements in medicine, materials science, and other fields that would profoundly impact society.

\Michael Biercuk, the CEO of the Australian quantum infrastructure software company Q-CTRL, told Business Insider some of the earliest applications for quantum computing are "just not very sexy, but they are economically, extremely high impact."

BI spoke with over a dozen people in the quantum computing field, including researchers from IBM and Amazon Web Services, the executives behind startups including Q-CTRL and QuamCore, and scholars running some of the top quantum labs in the country.

Here's what they say are the most promising ways quantum computing could change the world.

Improved logistics

"One major opportunity for true quantum advantage is logistics optimization and supply chain management," Bieruck said. "These are very challenging problems, and we know they are computationally bottlenecked."

Optimizing supply chains and improving logistics operations can make major organizations like the military and global shipping industry more efficient, helping businesses ensure consistent quality and reliable supply. This could also drive down the cost of consumer goods, reduce waste, and prevent spoilage of perishable items, potentially addressing larger social problems like world hunger.

New building materials

Lighter and more durable materials used to create roads and bridges, houses, and other everyday items could make construction quicker and more affordable and reduce the need for repairs.

"Some of the earliest applications that we'll be able to tackle that are relevant and provide not just utility, but also an advantage with a quantum computer over any classical computer is in the area of material science and development," Oskar Painter, the director of quantum hardware at Amazon Web Services, told Business Insider in late February, following the company's announcement of its Ocelot chip.

Even more promising is the potential discovery of self-healing materials — imagine buildings created of metals that repair themselves or asphalt that fills in its own cracks — could also be possible through quantum computing, Microsoft teased in its February press release announcing its Majorana 1 chip.

More efficient batteries

Optimizing battery materials at the molecular level can also lead to more efficient and powerful batteries, improving the range of electric vehicles and increasing electrical grid stability.

"There could be opportunities where the energy density could go way up just because you have a better matrix other than carbon for storing lithium ions, like we do conventionally in current LiPo batteries," Painter said. "These are things that I would say aren't so glamorous when you talk about them, but they can have some major real-world impact."

Drug discovery

Rob Schoelkopf, chief scientist and cofounder of Quantum Circuits, told Business Insider that quantum computing might help us speed up the discovery of new drugs by identifying new compounds with higher efficacy and fewer side effects.

"With a full-scale quantum computer, drug discovery times will go from 15 years to five years, maybe to three years to two years, depending on the nature of the problem that needs to be solved," Schoelkopf said.

Breaking encryption

Perhaps more ominously, quantum computing also shows security researchers one way that we know will "definitely" lead to our current encryption methods being broken, Karl Holmqvist, the CEO of Lastwall, a cybersecurity provider of quantum resilient technology used by the US Department of Defense, told Business Insider.

"Anything that's internet-connected will likely have problems," Holmqvist said. "A lot of the time, we trust that the links between systems are secure and the data that's gone between them is secure, and there's no way to get into those that they're encrypted. If you take away that default assumption, it allows so many new entry points into systems that it becomes quite concerning."

Arthur Herman, director of the Quantum Alliance Initiative at Hudson Institute, added that sufficient advancements in quantum computing could undermine the security of any encrypted data, from financial transactions stored on the blockchain to national security secrets.

"What we're talking about is the possibility of a hack, not just into individual cryptocurrencies, but our larger financial markets," Herman said.

…but we're not there yet

"We think we are on the cusp of demonstrating quantum advantage," IBM's VP of quantum adoption and business development, Scott Crowder, told Business Insider, referring to when a quantum computer outperforms classical machines. "But the industry is still a few years from a fully fault-tolerant quantum computer."

For now, he added, Big Tech companies need to be cautious about raising the public's expectations when promoting breakthroughs in their research to avoid creating disillusionment with the field.

"Over-hype" about the industry, Crowder said, could lead people to discount quantum technology before its promise can be realized.

Still, when the industry eventually solves its problems with error correction and scalability — which Crowder said he believes is imminent — it will be "like science fiction come to life."

• US shipbuilding problems are decades old and raising concerns about US Navy readiness.
• Officials, naval affairs experts, and politicians believe the primary issue revolves around workers.
• Wages, working conditions, and retention are top priorities.

The American shipbuilding industry is grappling with severe problems, none perhaps more crucial than the state of the workforce, naval affairs experts said this week.

Addressing the shipbuilding industry's workforce challenges, they explained, starts with competitive wages, quality-of-life improvements, and retention of skilled employees.

At a House Armed Service Committee Seapower and Projection Forces subcommittee hearing, members and witnesses talked about some of the woes facing US shipbuilders, such as the smaller industrial base and erratic demand signals from the Navy, and how these long-standing challenges are affecting top Navy programs.

"To say this plainly, we must act now," said Sen. Trent Kelly, the subcommittee chairman.

"Whether through changes to our procurement processes, stronger industrial base investments, or cultural shifts within shipbuilding program offices," the Mississippi Republican said, "we need to make these decisions sooner rather than later."

A range of topics were discussed during the hearing, but the problems relating to shipbuilding workers were center stage.

The consensus among witnesses like Eric Labs, senior analyst for naval forces and weapons with the Congressional Budget Office, and Shelby Oakley, the director of contracting and national security acquisitions with the Government Accountability Office, was that the starting point for fixing US shipbuilding issues is investing in the workforce.

"In my view, nothing is more important than addressing the critical labor shortages that afflict all the shipbuilding and public maintenance yards," Labs said. Recruitment has been low, and retention difficult, especially in trades such as welding, ship fitters, and pipe fitters.

The primary solution brought up was higher wages. Worker pay isn't competitive enough, experts argued, especially for what can be a demanding job, meaning potential workers are opting for employment at retail outlets and other places. There's a decline in interest in manufacturing jobs and not enough investment in fixing that.

Other related problems are improving the quality of life and working conditions in the yards, cheaper housing, and more benefits. Upping automation in shipyards, as well as better worker training, too, were included.

There have been proposals put forward for better pay, as that's been a focus for industry and the Navy, but the challenges aren't easily solved. Higher wages invite entry-level workers, experts said, but then those yards must retain those skilled workers and invest in their careers.

Oakley's statement to lawmakers this week, which featured information from the GAO's study on Navy shipbuilding, said that shipyards are largely struggling to replace the loss of experienced, skilled workers with new ones.

This issue applies, too, to white-collar shipbuilders like designers, naval architects, and engineers who "can take other jobs," Ronald O'Rourke, a naval affairs analyst with the Congressional Research Service, said.

There is also overlap with maintenance and repair yards. Oakley noted that the Navy's strategy has to focus on that alongside building, as they're inseparable and face similar issues, especially with regard to labor.

Some major US shipbuilders, especially those working on top US Navy submarines and surface ships, have pointed out the differences between their workforces today and 30 years ago: they're having trouble hiring people and keeping experienced workers.

They've also spoken to the overlap between these labor issues and other problems in shipbuilding. The Navy has often had inconsistent demand signals for its programs, which leaves industry in an uncertain place for hiring and maintaining workers.

US commercial and military shipbuilding problems are a priority in Washington right now. President Donald Trump has announced plans to create a White House office dedicated to the issue, and both his pick for Navy secretary and his defense secretary have highlighted the focus on shipbuilding.

The urgency is especially felt amid China's continued shipbuilding dominance. China boasts the largest shipbuilding industry in the world, vastly overshadowing the US, with blurred lines between its commercial and military yards.

As the US continues to prioritize meeting China's rise and the state of great power competition, shipbuilding has come to the forefront as a potential problem for the American military should the US and China clash at sea.

As it stands, the Navy's plans to continue building and maintaining its fleet will come at a hefty price tag. The US Congressional Budget Office said earlier this year it expected the Navy, based on the service's 2025 shipbuilding plan, to need about $40 billion each year through 2054.

But due to infrastructure and workforce limitations, the GAO said, "none of the seven shipbuilders that construct Navy battle force ships are currently positioned to meet the Navy's ship delivery goals."