With Michigan’s snow shoveling season upon us, the Michigan Primary Care Consortium is offering guidelines to avoid personal injury or a serious health care consequence.

Of special concerns are individuals facing chronic back challenges, heart disease, high blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as being a tobacco user.

Snow shoveling is no different than any other physical activity. For your personal safety, consult with your physician to determine if snow shoveling is safe for you.

If there is a personal or physician concern, hire an individual to help you with shoveling.

Start slowly, work at a steady pace and take frequent breaks. Shoveling for extended periods of time will comprise your safety and health.

If you experience any pain or unusual symptoms, immediately stop and seek appropriate assistance.

Select the right shovel. A curved handle is recommended. A plastic blade tends to be lighter than a metal blade. And, a smaller blade picking up less snow is less stressful on your back and other body areas.

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommend lifting snow in a squat position with legs apart, knees bent, and back straight. Lift at your legs. Do not bend at the waist. When tossing the snow, this position should be in the direction you are throwing. Never throw snow over your shoulder. A snow packed shovel blade can weigh as much as 25 pounds.

Stay hydrated as you work outdoors. Best to avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and energy drinks.

Wear layered clothing that you can remove as you warm up. Be certain to wear insulated warm gloves or mittens, socks, and boots.

Warm up your muscles before journeying out to remove snow. Cold and tight muscles are more likely to sprain or strain. Consider a minor pre-stretching process.

Let a family member, neighbor, or friend know you will be outside shoveling snow.

(NewsUSA) – The winter season may be full of heart-and-soul-warming celebrations, but cold weather can also pose some unknown risks to your heart.

The rate of deaths and hospitalizations for heart disease and stroke tend to increase dramatically during the winter. A recent study in “Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association” discovered that in some cases, the number of heart-related deaths increased by more than 50 percent. It looks like winter is hard on the heart, for reasons both obvious and obscure.

Take a look at five wintertime traps outlined by Life Line Screening, a provider of preventive health screenings:

1. Shorter, colder days. Darker days can upset the balance of heart-related hormones, increase levels of stress hormones like cortisol and lower the threshold for a cardiovascular event. Cold weather can reduce blood flow to the heart by tightening your arteries. If you must go outside, it helps to warm up indoors with some stretches first and, of course, dress warmly.
2. Disrupted routines. From chores to eating and sleeping, many routines are thrown off by winter. For instance, doing something strenuous like shoveling snow in the morning, a time when you’re usually inactive, can raise your blood pressure and increase the risk of a cardiovascular event. In any case, go slow and don’t overexert yourself.
3. Flu season. As we all know, winter is flu season. The flu usually causes inflammation, which can make arterial plaque less stable and trigger a heart attack. The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu shot, especially if you’re older than 65 and have risk factors for heart disease.
4. Stress on top of stress. The holidays tend to usher in stress as well as merriment and cheer, especially with family obligations and financial responsibilities. Levels of pre-existing anxiety and depression—both of which are associated with heart attacks and strokes—can peak for some people during the holidays.
5. Too much cheer. Winter festivities often lead to overindulging on drinks and rich food. Most people tend to eat more, drink more, smoke more, sleep less and gain weight. Plus, you’re probably not sticking to a work-out routine, if you have one. Try to avoid excess amounts of nicotine and caffeine, since those especially stress the heart.

To check your heart health, schedule a health screening at www.lifelinescreening.com.

If you’d like to get your blood pressure checked, Metron of Cedar Springs will be providing free blood pressure checks on Monday, February 4, 2013, from 1-3 p.m., at Rite Aid, on 17 Mile Road in Cedar Springs.

Family Features

All across the country, food lovers are cooking up something wholesome and flavorful. They are making a commitment to eating better on their own terms by making more meals at home. They are finding that home cooking with real ingredients is inherently healthier — and it’s surprisingly easy. With a few simple changes, you can make a big difference in the healthfulness of everyday meals.

“By adding herbs and spices, it’s easy to make healthy foods more flavorful. And it’s a smart way to freshen up your family’s standby recipes while gradually reducing reliance on sugar, sodium or fat,” said Chef Mark Garcia, of the McCormick Kitchens.

For freshened-up family favorites, try making these simple, healthful changes that are simply delicious:

• Replace the heavy breading on chicken tenders with a flour mixture spiced with paprika, black pepper and oregano. Bake it in the oven to reduce fat and calories.

•  For a healthier take on beef stew, use low sodium broth and serve over whole grain pasta or brown rice instead of mashed potatoes.

• For a delicious twist on traditional chili, try using boneless, skinless chicken breasts with black beans and corn. Pump up the authentic Southwest flavor with cumin, garlic powder and red pepper.

Get more recipes like these at www.mccormick.com. You can also join the conversation on Twitter @Spices4Health.

Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables

Roasting the vegetables before adding them to the stew brings out delicious caramelized flavors.

Makes 6 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

4 cups cubed winter vegetables (cut into

1/2-inch pieces), such as carrots, butternut squash, parsnips or sweet potatoes

1 medium onion, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 1/2 pounds boneless beef sirloin steak, cut

into 1-inch cubes

3/4 cup chicken stock OR chicken broth can be used

1/4 cup dry red wine or apple juice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon McCormick Black Pepper, Coarse Ground

1/2 teaspoon McCormick Thyme Leaves

3 McCormick Bay Leaves

Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss cubed vegetables and onion with 1 tablespoon of the oil. Arrange in single layer on large baking sheet. Roast 20 minutes or until vegetables are golden brown.

Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches. Return all beef to skillet. Add roasted vegetables, stock, wine, salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 10 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Serving Suggestion: Serve stew over cooked brown rice or whole grain pasta.

Nutrition information, per serving: Calories: 261; Fat: 10g; Carbohydrates: 16g; Cholesterol: 56mg; Sodium: 328mg; Fiber: 3g; Protein: 25g

Oven-Fried Chicken

Boneless chicken is seasoned and oven-fried for great taste that’s quick and easy enough for any day of the week.

Makes 5 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

1/4 cup flour

1 1/2 teaspoons Lawry’s Seasoned Salt

1/2 teaspoon McCormick Oregano Leaves

1/4 teaspoon McCormick Black Pepper, Ground

1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast

halves or thighs

1/4 cup milk

1 tablespoon butter, melted

Preheat oven to 425°F. Spray 15x10x1-inch baking pan with no stick cooking spray.

Mix flour, seasoned salt, oregano and pepper in shallow dish. Moisten chicken with milk. Coat evenly with flour mixture. Place chicken in single layer on prepared pan. Drizzle with melted butter.

Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.

Test Kitchen Tip: For quicker, more uniform cooking, slice thick chicken breasts in half horizontally or pound chicken breasts thin.

Flavor Variation: Use 1 teaspoon McCormick Perfect Pinch Italian Seasoning or Rosemary Leaves, crushed, in place of the oregano.

Nutrition information, per serving: Calories: 190; Fat: 6g; Carbohydrates: 6g; Cholesterol: 80mg; Sodium: 457mg; Fiber: 0g; Protein: 28g

Chicken Chili with Black Beans and Corn

Make a batch of this Super Spice-rich chili for your next get-together. It doubles easily if you are expecting a crowd.

Makes 8 (1-cup) servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts,

cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 cup chopped onion

1 tablespoon McCormick Paprika

1 1/2 teaspoons McCormick Oregano Leaves

1 teaspoon McCormick Cumin, Ground

1 teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder

1/4 teaspoon McCormick Red Pepper, Crushed

1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 ounces) great Northern beans,

drained and rinsed

1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup frozen corn

Heat oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Add chicken, bell pepper and onion; cook and stir 6 to 8 minutes or until chicken is lightly browned. Add paprika, oregano, cumin, garlic powder and red pepper; mix well.

Stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 20 minutes.

Nutrition information, per serving: Calories: 188; Fat: 4g; Carbohydrates: 20g; Cholesterol: 37mg; Sodium: 413mg; Fiber: 6g; Protein: 18g

From the Kent County Health Department

GRAND RAPIDS – Emergency Departments in Kent County reported a slight incline in the percentage of visits due to flu-like illnesses last week. The Kent County Health Department is monitoring the situation with area pharmacies to make sure they are able to meet the demand for flu medication.

“Some pharmacies are reporting to us that they are currently low on dosages of prescription flu medication, mostly the liquid doses for children,” says Cathy Raevsky, Administrative Health Officer for the Kent County Health Department. “Our staff is staying on top of the situation, to determine if the Health Department needs to supplement community supplies.” The Health Department does not fill prescriptions for flu medication to the general public.

The Kent County Health Department says the single best way to protect against the flu is by getting vaccinated, which can take about two weeks to become effective. Regular hand washing also can be helpful in reducing your risk of getting the flu. Even if you haven’t received a vaccination yet, you can still get protected. Physicians tell us that in cases where people have developed the flu after getting the vaccine, the symptoms are less severe. Adults and children with the flu should stay home from school or work until they have been able to keep a normal body temperature for 24 hours, without a fever-reducing medication.

Flu season typically peaks in February/March, but this year, the onset of cases has arrived several weeks early. The confirmed number of flu cases in Kent County this season is 463. Signs and symptoms of flu include fever (or feeling feverish/chills), cough and/or sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (very tired), vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults).

The flu can cause serious complications in pregnant women, people who have weakened immune systems, in the very young and in the elderly. Infants six months of age or younger cannot get a flu vaccine, so it is recommended that family members and people who care for them receive a vaccination. The Health Department has plenty of injection ($25) and nasal mist ($32) available. Check out the Kent County Health Department website, http://www.stickittotheflu.com/ to learn more about flu vaccinations, prevention tips and treatment, or call (616) 632-7200 to make an appointment.

(Family Features) The winter months mark the end of the outdoor training season for many active people, and the colder, shorter days can make it challenging to stay motivated and active. In fact, Gallup surveys find that exercise levels and healthy eating habits amongst Americans significantly decline during fall and winter months.

“When the temperatures drop and the sun sets earlier, many people struggle to find the time, energy or motivation to stay focused on their fitness goals,” said USA Cycling and Triathlon Coach Gale Bernhardt. “The best way to stay on top of your personal health and maximize cold weather workouts is to create an offseason game plan.”

These easy-to-follow tips will help you run your day, your way and stay active this offseason, no matter how cold it is outside.

• Some Is Better Than None: If you don’t have time to go to the gym or fit an hour workout into your busy day, still try to fit in what you can. Try a steady walk for 20 to 30 minutes, climb a flight of stairs a couple of times, or simply walk around the block.
• Embrace the Cold: Don’t let the chilly temperatures scare you. Use the cold as an opportunity to find unique ways to get in some good cardio or strength work by raking leaves, shoveling the driveway, building a snowman or going on a winter weather hike.
• Break Outside of the Gym: Winter workouts don’t need to be relegated to the gym. Find an at-home fitness DVD (Pilates, yoga, cardio, etc.) or an on-demand television workout, and do your own in-house boot camp once a week to mix things up.
• Mix Up Your Fitness: Use the winter season to learn a new skill. Try something new like indoor rock climbing, a dance class, fitness boxing, or cross-country skiing. Check out your local fitness center for ideas.
• Stay Fueled in the Cold: If you find yourself in need of an energy boost prior to your endurance workout, you can grab a convenient fuel source such as a MARATHON® Bar. For workouts that are mostly aerobic, the MARATHON® Bar with more protein can help keep you satisfied and fueled through the workout and beyond. www.marathonbars.com
• Winter Workout Buddy: For added motivation, invite friends to work out with you. Buddies give you incentive, provide mutual commitment and ultimately help keep workouts fun.
• Join a Team: Winter is a great time for team sports like volleyball or basketball. Recreation leagues like these can provide a great aerobic workout and speed skills, too.

Don’t let the colder winter months slow you down. Whether the goal is to maintain endurance in between race seasons, effectively provide rest and recovery to a fatigued body, or simply to stay healthy and active during the long winter months, try the tips above to help develop simple strategies for training and nutrition that works best for you to stay fit and active during the offseason.

(BPT) – Like many parents, Heidi Staats had never heard of respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV, until she almost lost her son to the common, yet potentially severe disease it can cause.
Heidi’s son, Brett, was born only a month preterm. Despite his early arrival, Brett weighed a hearty seven pounds and was deemed ready for discharge after a few short days. Because of his healthy appearance, doctors didn’t think of Brett as a typical “preemie” and didn’t inform Heidi of the increased risks that impact all preterm infants—even those born just a few weeks early. In fact, even though he was a preemie, Brett wasn’t considered to be at high risk for developing severe RSV disease and Heidi wasn’t aware of the dangers of RSV, particularly for premature infants born during the RSV season (November – March).
RSV usually causes mild to moderate cold-like symptoms but in some infants it can cause a serious lung infection. While the virus affects nearly 100 percent of babies before the age of two, premature babies—defined as those born before 37 weeks gestation—are most at risk for developing severe RSV disease.Preemies are not as well-equipped to fight RSV as full-term babies, because they are born with underdeveloped lungs and a lesser amount of vital antibodies. These antibodies are necessary to stave off infections.
Since Heidi wasn’t aware of the need to take extra precautions, she was not alarmed about Brett being around other children and enrolled him in daycare when he was six weeks old. During his second week, one of the teachers mentioned that another child had RSV, a virus Heidi had never heard of. Heidi noticed that Brett had a little cough, but no fever or sniffles. Erring on the side of caution, Heidi took him to the doctor. At that visit, it was noted that Brett’s lungs sounded clear and strong.
“The next day, January 13, is a day I will always remember,” says Heidi. “I called daycare to check in on Brett and the teachers said he seemed fine, but a bit more lethargic than usual. Within a few hours, however, the teacher noticed that Brett was unresponsive and gray in color and they immediately called 911.”
On the way to the hospital, the paramedics were able to stabilize Brett with an oxygen mask, but shortly after arriving, he stopped breathing again. Doctors had to intubate Brett and transport him via helicopter to a nearby children’s hospital, where he could receive the specialized intensive care needed to save his life.
“I was incredibly confused about what was happening,” says Heidi. “When we arrived at the hospital, I overheard one of the doctors saying the baby just brought in from the daycare had coded. Then, I noticed one of the paramedics had tears in his eyes. I knew this wasn’t a good sign but was in complete denial—how could this be my baby boy, who just yesterday had been deemed healthy?”
Later that night, it was confirmed that severe RSV disease was what had caused Brett to stop breathing. He spent six days on the ventilator in the NICU and two more days at the hospital—slowly regaining his strength.
Severe RSV disease is the leading cause of infant hospitalization in the U.S., and is responsible for 1 of every 13 pediatrician visits and 1 of every 38 trips to the E.R. Additionally, while deaths are not common, severe RSV disease causes up to 10 times as many infant deaths each year as the flu, resulting in up to 400 infant deaths annually in the U.S.- In addition to premature infants, other populations at high risk for developing severe RSV disease include children with congenital heart disease and/or chronic lung disease. Risk factors for severe RSV disease include low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds), young chronological age (≤ 12 weeks of age at the onset of RSV season), and situational risk factors such as attending daycare, crowded living conditions, having pre-school or school-aged siblings, or exposure to tobacco smoke.
Because there is no treatment specific for RSV disease, Heidi wants all parents to know there are simple steps they can take to help protect their baby from the virus. “I want all parents to know about Brett’s story and learn about the dangers of RSV,” says Heidi. “I’m so thankful that Brett is alive and thriving today. All parents should know how they can protect their little ones this winter.”
To help protect your baby from RSV, you should:
* Understand the risk factors and ask your child’s pediatrician if your child may be at increased risk.
* Help prevent the spread of the virus by frequently washing your baby’s hands, toys and bedding, and by keeping your baby away from large crowds, young children and people with colds. Additionally, anyone who touches the baby should wash their hands.
* Carefully monitor your baby’s behavior for signs and symptoms like a severe cough or wheezing; difficulty breathing or rapid, gasping breaths; blue color of the lips, mouth, and/or fingernails; difficulty feeding; fatigue and fever.
“I’ve seen how quickly severe RSV disease can develop, and how devastating it can be to families,” says pediatric critical care physician, Kari Kassir, M.D., of Children’s Hospital of Orange County. “While frequent hand washing is essential in preventing the spread of RSV, it’s also important to talk with your child’s pediatrician to determine if he or she is at high risk during the RSV season.”
Visit www.RSVprotection.com for more information.

Tips from TOPS

Pie, mashed potatoes, cookies, and carved ham—these are just a few of the popular seasonal dishes we tend to consume more of during the holidays. According to Katie Ferraro, M.P.H., R.D., C.D.E., nutrition expert for TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, the holidays don’t have to sabotage your healthy meal planning.

“Use parties and family get-togethers as an opportunity to try out new, healthy recipes and incorporate several of the following tips into your upcoming celebrations,” says Ferraro. “Special holiday recipes prepared healthier with simple substitutions can add nutrition and won’t break the calorie bank.”

Mash cauliflower instead of potatoes

One cup of mashed potatoes made with skim milk and no butter has 150 calories, while one cup of mashed cauliflower made with skim milk and no butter has one third of the calories, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – and tastes nearly identical. For the pickiest eaters, mix half mashed cauliflower, half mashed potato. “Add fresh herbs in place of salt for zesty flavor,” notes Ferraro.

Unsweetened applesauce instead of sugar, oil, or butter

Cut calories in baked goods while providing a hint of sweetness with this substitute. According to the USDA, a cup of sugar contains 775 calories, while a cup of unsweetened applesauce contains only about 100 calories.

Nutrient-rich leafy greens instead of iceberg lettuce

For an added boost of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, consider dark, leafy vegetables like arugula, chicory, kale, mustard greens, or spinach in place of iceberg lettuce for your salad. “Generally, the deeper the color of vegetable, the better the nutrition,” says Ferraro.

Air-cured or other smoked meats instead of bacon

Substitute bacon with lower-fat and higher-protein Canadian bacon, turkey bacon, or prosciutto. According to Ferraro, one slice of bacon has 45 calories, while turkey bacon contains roughly half that amount. These meats are best enjoyed in limited quantities though, as they can still contain significant amounts of sodium.

Finely-chopped prunes instead of butter in dark breads

Swap finely-chopped prunes or baby food prunes for oil, butter, or margarine in quick breads or other dark baked goods, like brownies. Cut calories and fat in half without compromising on sweetness or moisture.

Steam in canned broth instead of sautéing in oil

For a tasty, low-calorie and fat-free alternative to oil sautéing, Ferraro recommends steaming meats and vegetables in a half cup of reduced-sodium canned chicken or beef broth. Steaming vegetables in broth helps retain their nutrients and enhances flavor, as well.

Fresh fruit instead of fruit canned in heavy syrup

Avoid processed foods like fruit canned in heavy syrup and opt for fresh fruit or fruit canned in its own juice or in water. Heavy syrup typically contains water, sugar, and corn syrup – with little nutritional value and lots of additional calories. If your budget is tight, purchase canned produce and then drain and rinse the fruit.

Cacao nibs instead of chocolate chips

Cacao nibs, minimally-processed bits of cocoa beans, are semi-sweet and rich in antioxidants and essential minerals. Their crunchy texture and intense taste are a unique way to add a boost of flavor to holiday treats.

TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is the original weight-loss support and wellness education organization. To find a local chapter, view http://www.tops.orgwww.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677 or see hometown happening on page 6.

Patients now can be placed on waiting list

Spectrum Health’s application to perform lung transplants has been approved by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). A letter of approval was received last week and patients can now be placed on Spectrum Health’s waiting list.

UNOS is a private non-profit organization that manages the U.S. organ transplant system. Certification by UNOS signifies an organization meets all institutional and personnel qualifications required to perform lung transplants.

“This is a significant milestone for our patients and for us,” said Reda Girgis, MD, medical director of Spectrum Health’s lung transplant program and a member of Spectrum Health Medical Group. “We can now place West Michigan patients on our waiting list and they’ll be able to receive this gift of life closer to home.”

Girgis is hopeful that the first transplant can take place between now and February. “The timing of our first transplant is not fully within our control, of course, but we are ready.”

Girgis heads a multidisciplinary team that includes specialists in transplant infectious diseases, pathology, radiology, and immunology plus nurse coordinators, a transplant pharmacist, social worker, psychologist, nutritionist, physical therapists, respiratory therapists and others. Each potential recipient is carefully evaluated to ensure the greatest likelihood for a successful outcome.

Working closely with Girgis is the cardiothoracic surgical team headed by heart and lung transplant surgeon Ashgar Khaghani, MD.

Lung transplantation continues to grow in the U.S. and worldwide. In 2011, more than 1,800 procedures were performed in the U.S. Currently, more than 1,600 candidates are on the waiting list.

(BPT) – It’s the most wonderful time of the year – but are you able to enjoy the holidays completely? The approaching holiday season means quality time with family, special deliveries in the mail and goodies that delight the taste buds. But it’s important to be prepared and stay healthy throughout the season so you can enjoy every festive moment.

Consider these holiday health essentials that allow you to enjoy the season to the fullest:

1. Do you see what I see?

The sights of the holidays are a delight, but for the millions of people who have trouble seeing small images and print, many traditional holiday activities can be difficult to do. An easy solution is a stylish pair of Foster Grant(R) reading glasses. Consider LightSpecs(R) , reading glasses with a light that can be turned on to help you see better in dim areas, ideal for when you want to read holiday greeting cards or recite ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ to the kids. Another option that is perfect for traveling is MicroVision, reading glasses that fold to a compact size to easily fit in a shirt pocket or purse, so you can be prepared no matter where your holiday adventures takes you.

2. Avoid a blue Christmas

The holiday season is a special time of year that coincides with another, less anticipated time: cold and flu season. No one wants to end up stuck in bed with a nasty bug missing out on all the festivities. That’s why now is the time to stock up on soap and hand sanitizer. Keeping hands clean is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection and illness, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, so be sure to scrub up often, including before you cook, bake, eat or hold your precious grandchild.

3. Bundle up to walk in a winter wonderland

Winter and the holidays go hand-in-hand, which means colder weather is to be expected, including ice and snow. Keep healthy by protecting your body from the elements. When running about town shopping and grabbing holiday essentials, be sure to wear a scarf, mittens and boots if the weather is chilly so you can stay warm and dry. The winter wonderland atmosphere is sure to enhance your holiday mood, but catching a cold, or worse yet, frost bite, will leave you feeling like a grinch.

4. Too many cups of cheer? Medication can help

Sugar plums, roasted chestnuts, figgy pudding – while your holiday meals may not include these types of historic holiday fare, you’re probably noshing on a variety of treats you don’t eat at other times of the year. Eating rich foods and trying new dishes is naturally a part of celebrating the season, but it can leave you with an upset stomach. Whether you’re hosting an event at your home, or you’re traveling to another location for the holidays, be sure to stock up on antacid and other over-the-counter remedies for stomach troubles.

With a few simple steps, you’ll prepare yourself for your best holiday season yet, one where you feel healthy and enjoy every moment. From buying a new pair of Foster Grant reading glasses at your local drug stores, such as CVS, Rite-Aid and Walgreens or online at www.readerboutique.com, to stocking up on some common medications, you’re sure to have a happy holiday and joyful new year.