\u2019Twas the forecast before Christmas, when all through the state<\/p>\n
People were still in deep shock from their homeowners’ rates.<\/p>\n
Not as many homebuyers were stirring, not even a mouse;<\/p>\n
Four hundred grand just to buy a gingerbread house?!<\/p>\n
Mortgage applicants filled out their paperwork with fear,<\/p>\n
The 30-year fixed rate was three percent just last year!<\/p>\n
High prices and insurance premiums made monthly payments grow,<\/p>\n
As did Florida transplants seeking taxes so low.<\/p>\n
I in my bed with a tear-stained Terrible Towel,<\/p>\n
In my head no sugar-plum visions, just old Jerome Powell.<\/p>\n
Inflation is slowing, but not at a brisk pace.<\/p>\n
The Fed is the tortoise in a price stability race.<\/p>\n
Then in front of my house, I heard a loud clatter.<\/p>\n
Sleep interrupted again, at least it wasn’t my bladder.<\/p>\n
I peeked out the window hoping to see Santa \u2014 no luck,<\/p>\n
No sleigh, not one reindeer, just an Amazon truck.<\/p>\n
The labor market shortage is taking its toll,<\/p>\n
I hear there’s now self-checkout aisles at the North Pole.<\/p>\n
Not enough workers have caused wages to rise,<\/p>\n
Must be good for employees you\u2019d be wrong to surmise.<\/p>\n
Yes, paychecks the past two years are increasingly large,<\/p>\n
But for ends to meet, households need to make a credit card charge.<\/p>\n
One-point-one trillion-plus in credit card debt is dampening holiday cheer,<\/p>\n
The federal government to consumers: “Please hold my beer.”<\/p>\n
Trillions in deficit spending without any debating,<\/p>\n
Have led two agencies to cut the U.S. credit rating.<\/p>\n
The U.S. economy is now starting to slow,<\/p>\n
Inflation-battered, debt-ridden consumers are forced to forgo.<\/p>\n
In Florida the economy isn’t immune,<\/p>\n
But during this economic slowdown we’ll hum a new tune.<\/p>\n
The past two recessions wreaked havoc and pain,<\/p>\n
No broken bones this go ’round, just more of a sprain.<\/p>\n
Most of our ailments are because we are growing.<\/p>\n
Into our state a river of people keeps flowing.<\/p>\n
And to the NCAA, Santa, bring lots of coal,<\/p>\n
Naughty isn\u2019t the word for what was done to the ‘Noles.<\/p>\n
Our beloved Knights are now in the Big Twelve,<\/p>\n
Albeit with an athletic budget no bigger than elves.<\/p>\n
Over time we can hope that budget will grow.<\/p>\n
In the meantime, it\u2019s Gasparilla \u2014 that’s eight bowl games in a row!<\/p>\n
So, here’s to the New Year and hope for the best,<\/p>\n
Health and happiness from Destin down to Key West.<\/p>\n