Unseasonably warm weather has led to canceled Epiphany ice plunges for Russian Orthodox Christians while a fragile ceasefire takes hold in Gaza, with families anxiously awaiting hostage releases amidst longstanding conflict.

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Warm weather has thrown a wrench into the time-honored Orthodox Christian celebration of Epiphany in Russia, where thousands of faithful typically brave icy waters for their annual plunge. This year, however, instead of bracing themselves against freezing temperatures, worshippers have been greeted by unseasonably warm weather, forcing many to abandon their traditional ceremonies. It seems that global warming has not only warmed our planet but also managed to cool down some of Russia's most chilling rituals. In a country synonymous with ice and winter, one might say it feels as if winter itself took an extended vacation. Meanwhile, in the Middle East, a long-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has finally come into effect after a delay that felt longer than most family dinners. As hostages are expected to be released, emotions run high on both sides of the conflict. Families in Israel hold their breaths, desperately hoping to see their loved ones return home, while Hamas celebrates its tactical victory amidst the chaos. This seemingly fragile truce isn't without its complications, and both sides are left grappling with the harsh scars from months of violence. If only lasting peace could be brokered as easily as social media influencers get brand deals. And while stories of temperature fluctuations and tenuous ceasefires make headlines, there are everyday people like Mary and Sébastien Braun who have taken their own unique approach to change. The couple relocated from America to Switzerland, trading the hustle and bustle of American life for the serene landscapes and higher costs of living in Europe. They're now paying nearly $3,000 a month for a three-bedroom apartment, citing safety as their primary motive in this life-altering decision. It's clear that whether it's plunging into freezing waters or making a drastic life change, people seem determined to pursue what they believe is best for them—though sometimes, it raises the question of whether "" was ever really normal at all.