Some deceitful practices target seniors. At one time, the schemes seemed transparent. Now, dishonest individuals are becoming craftier at making these dealings look like the real thing.

What should seniors guard against? Here are two examples.

Internet prescription drugs.

Buying drugs from online sites can seem appealing because costs tend to be lower. Nonetheless, certain Internet companies are not selling the real thing. Some tips for online drug purchases?

• Never buy from a site that does not need a prescription. Reputable vendors confirm prescription authenticity before they send out medication.
• Ensure that a qualified pharmacist is filling your order and will be available to address questions or concerns. Trustworthy retailers have licensed pharmacists ready to handle inquiries.
• Be mindful of packaging and drug appearance. When you receive a prescription drug in the mail, make sure the package is properly sealed. At the same time, be certain the medication is the right size, color, and shape. If anything seems questionable, it is wise to seek the counsel of a local pharmacist.
• Make certain that contact information is listed. If a seller is genuine, contact information, like phone numbers and physical location, should be provided.
• Check the supplier’s credentials. Companies that supply prescription drugs should be licensed. Therefore, be sure the site you do business with has the proper qualifications.

Funeral Scams.

Many funeral homes are reputable and do not charge inflated prices or coerce grieving family members to purchase services they do not need. Nonetheless, some are not. Therefore, here are some tips.

• An expensive casket is not necessary unless you specifically want one. Some unprincipled people emotionally strong-arm families into buying expensive caskets; this can even happen when the deceased will be cremated.
• Defy Rolls Royce of caskets push. Certain funeral homes openly display their costly caskets and fail to mention that more reasonable models exist. Because of this, ask for a price list. If the funeral home does not have a reasonably priced model in their inventory, one can be ordered.
• Resist add-ons unless you really desire them. Some funeral homes encourage expensive products that are designed to preserve for eternity. One such feature involves a rubber gasket included on a casket. However, some experts have found that these gasket models accomplish the opposite objective. In fact, certain mausoleums do not allow them because they may cause the casket to burst.
• Visit at least two funeral homes and compare costs (including mortuary service fees). Some families have a specific place they wish to patronize. Still, it makes sense to compare at least two funeral homes for cost and services. In addition, be mindful to check the prices associated with the mortuary service fees. The hours devoted to these tasks are normally under 5. Consequently, charges for the duties should not be excessive.
• Plan funeral arrangements in advance. Naturally we want the best for our deceased loved one, but overpriced services are not needed to honor someone’s memory. Consequently, resist pressure to get what might not be in your best interest. The best way to do this? Plan before you/a loved one passes. When we plan in advance, choices tend to be based on reason as opposed to emotion. For specific consumer safeguards implemented by the Federal Trade Commission and titled The Funeral Rule, go to http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/rulemaking/funeral/index.shtm.

Sadly, unscrupulous business practices exist. Nevertheless, if you arm yourself with knowledge, you can stay better protected against many deceitful dealings.

Now that the warmer weather has arrived, everyone, particularly seniors, should be prepared to fend off insects.

Why? Vector-borne diseases seem to be on the rise, and some can be extremely debilitating.

Which bugs should you guard against? There are a few, but here are two of the more troublesome pests that make their presence in the Northeast.

• Mosquitoes. New England evenings tend to be glorious in the warmer weather. The setting sun is radiant, the twilight air is incomparable, and the nighttime sky exudes romance. There’s not much that can beat outdoor enjoyment on a beautiful New England night. Despite the splendor, mosquitoes announce their arrival at dusk and evening. How do they do this? By sucking our blood. Yes, the outdoor atmosphere may be wonderful, but this warm weather bug is not. Besides bestowing itchy, bothersome bumps as unwelcome gifts to the recipient, mosquitoes can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). What steps can be taken to repel mosquitoes? Well, mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, so it’s important to clear away any wetness hanging around. At the same time, make sure gutters are regularly checked, window screens are free of holes, and doors do not stay open when someone arrives or leaves. If you will be outside, especially for protracted periods, it is important to spray your clothing with an insect repellent. Products containing 20% to 30% DEET are typically effective, but certain natural sprays may work, as well. (Note: Check DEET guidelines if using bug spray on your grandchildren). Bottom line? Infected mosquitoes can wreak havoc in some people, so be careful.

• Ticks. The CDC warns that ticks are especially active in warmer weather, but they are even becoming hardy in colder temperatures. A misnomer is that you only have to protect against this pest if you are walking in a wooded or brush-filled area. Yes, ticks tend to be present in larger numbers in places that have a great deal of growth, but they also hangout on your front, side, and back lawn. What can you do? Wear long sleeves, long pants, and high socks when walking in any grassy or brush-like setting: the ticks will have a harder time finding a blood meal. Concurrently, consider applying a 30% to 50% DEET repellant. There are more natural products that are supposed to keep ticks away, but they might not be as successful (so do research). For good reason, many people prefer to stay away from chemicals, but sometimes you have to weigh the risks versus the benefits. A tick carrying Lyme, Babesia, Bartonella or other types of bacteria could inflict chaos in the body, especially in seniors. To add insult to injury, the symptoms of tick-borne diseases are sometimes mistaken for other conditions. Unfortunately, this can result in delayed treatment and chronic problems. The current blood tests used to detect Lyme are not always accurate. Therefore, take precautions.

Spring and summer are magnificent in New England, and bugs should not interfere with the enjoyment of these seasons. Still, it makes sense to guard against disease-carrying insects as best as possible. As the wise idiom says, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!”

As humans reach middle age and beyond, sleep patterns can become disrupted.

Why does this occur? One reason could be the decrease of melatonin production in older individuals.

What is melatonin? It is a naturally occurring hormone produced in the pineal gland. It’s plentiful in younger years, but by age sixty-five, a much smaller fraction of this youth-boosting compound is secreted into the bloodstream. In relatively recent times, over-the-counter melatonin supplements have been available to take shortly before bedtime. Some people who suffered with assorted sleep disorders say they are now experiencing improved nighttime zzz’s.

Can melatonin supplements offer other benefits besides the hope of a healthier nocturnal sleep?

A number of researchers believe the answer is “yes.” However, it is important to mention many studies reinforcing such claims were done with animals, not humans. Even so, here are some of the believed benefits:

• Memory. Mice that were given melatonin typically exhibited better memory patterns. They also appeared to display enhanced learning capabilities. Several experts suggest that even Alzheimer’s patients might benefit from taking melatonin supplements.
• Migraine headaches. Migraines and other types of recurrent headaches negatively impact a person’s way of life. Some clinical trials have indicated that melatonin supplements can prevent headaches from occurring or lessen their severity if they do take place.
• Antioxidant properties. Melatonin is believed to possess impressive antioxidant properties. Because of this, the damaging effects of certain diseases, like Parkinson’s disease and cancer, may be minimized.
• Anti-aging. Several studies suggest that melatonin supplementation can counteract oxidative harm, reduce free radicals, and slow the aging process.
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and/or mood fluctuations. Properly timed melatonin supplements are thought to interrupt disruptions in bodily patterns and potentially help conditions like SAD and bipolar. Still, further research is necessary.

Are melatonin supplements alleged to help other ills? In certain cases, jet lag, infertility, obesity, and gallstones may be frustrated. Still, keep in mind that additional studies are needed to substantiate these claims. At the same time, doctor approval is always recommended before taking any kind of supplement: interactions with prescription medication and/or negative side effects can occur (although melatonin, by in large, appears to produce few undesirable effects).

Better sleep with melatonin? It might be what the doctor orders.

When loved ones move to senior communal environments, they still want to put their best foot forward concerning their appearance. Subsequently, the clothes they wear often influences how they feel. Nonetheless, when mobility limitations are present, smart attire can become more challenging. Here are some apparel ideas that will help keep your loved one feeling comfortable and looking stylish at the same time.

• Sweat suits. A number of sweat suits are cozy and versatile. They are suitable for lounging, going outdoors, watching TV, reading, playing games, wearing to physical therapy, etc. The elastic waistband and flexible nature to the fabric is great when enacting almost any movement. And, you can choose dark colors, bright colors, geometric designs, prints, lighter materials (nylon), heavier materials (velour), and so much more. Yes, some versions look like a traditional sweat suit, while others are less casual and quite appropriate in a more formal environment (like restaurant). Naturally, the better the quality, the more wear your loved one will enjoy!

• Dresses. Countless women feel feminine in a pretty dress, especially on special occasions. Still, certain dresses can be stiff, scratchy, awkward, or even difficult to slip on. Because of this, look for comfortable materials with vibrant colors and/or interesting designs: your mother will brighten up the room! At the same time, be certain the opening is large enough to fit over your loved one’s head. Some senior-oriented designers even negate buttons and instead use snaps and Velcro so everything is easier to put on and take off.

• Slacks, blouses, sweaters, and shirts. Many seniors prefer stretchy pants with elastic waistbands. At one time, the selection was limited. Now, there are many fashionable styles to choose from. Blouses, shirts, and sweaters also come in various fabrics, styles, and colors, and many offer snaps and Velcro. There’s even an innovative line of back-zipper jumpsuits designed for dementia patients who are prone to taking off their clothing. The jumpsuit looks just like a two-piece outfit but is more difficult to remove. This kind of garment, known as adaptive clothing, is typically sold at specialty outlets. For adaptive clothing resources, go to http://www.familyvillage.wisc.edu/at/adaptive-clothing.html.

When picking out nursing home attire, keep in mind that cotton is wonderful for the spring and summer because it breathes. Heavier cotton garments are great in the winter, as well. Wool can be itchy for certain people; therefore, try to find a less-irritating material or consider limiting this fabric to the colder months.

Senior comfort and fashion? Of course!

The winter has been relatively mild this year; still, it’s chilly enough for some people to prefer to stay indoors. After all, 30 degrees, particularly when coupled with a biting wind, can be less-than-inviting.

However, now that spring is approaching, getting out and about becomes considerably more appealing. Therefore, Worcester Restaurant Week could not come at a more opportune time!

What is Worcester Restaurant Week? It’s an almost two-week period (okay it’s longer than a week) where area restaurants offer multi course meals, typically three, at an extremely reasonable price. Actually, the cost is only $23.12. In fact, this delicious event takes place only twice a year, and this spring it’s running from March 19-March 31.

Sound tempting? Here are some of the mouth-watering foods being offered.

• Rosalina’s Kitchen—83 Hamilton Street, Worcester. The first course at Rosalina’s Kitchen features a choice of Strawberry Salad with gorgonzola cheese, slivered almonds, and fresh strawberries, Pasta Fagioli, or Mussels in a spicy tomato sauce. The scrumptious main meal selections are Pan-seared Haddock with pasta (or potato and vegetable), Shrimp Scampi with pasta, Veal Bracciole with pasta (or potatoes), Chicken Parmesan with pasta, or Eggplant Steaks with linguini. And the final course? Mini Cannolis or House-made Gelato.

• Flying Rhino, 278 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester. The Flying Rhino appetizer offerings are as follows: Watermelon and Feta Salad, Petite Caesar Salad, Crab Rangoon, or Rhino Hot Wings. The delectable dinner options? Asian Beef Short Rib in a hoisin and lemongrass glaze over rice noodles, Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry sautéed in a spicy Szechwan sauce over rice, Cajun Salmon Fresca, or Farmstand Ravioli in a smoky tomato sauce. Coffee and homemade dessert cap off the evening with a choice of Flying Fried Rhino Dough a la mode or White Chocolate Croissant a la mode.

• A.J. Tomaiolo’s Restaurant, 411 West Main Street, Northborough. The Antipasti choices at A.J. Tomaiolo’s Restaurant are Caesar Salad, House Salad, Escarole Soup, or Tortellini Soup. The tasty Entrée offerings are Seafood Fra Diavolo (fresh lobster, shrimp, scallops, and mussels in a spicy sauce over pasta), Steak alla Madeira (12 ounce steak in a Madeira wine), Haddock Annabella (fresh haddock stuffed with a crabmeat stuffing), or Veal Siciliano (sautéed in olive oil and served over meat ravioli). And dessert? Cheesecake or Vanilla Ice Cream with a three-berry sauce.

• The Manor Restaurant, 42 West Boylston Street, West Boylston, MA. Okay, The Manor Restaurant includes four courses! For starters, there’s a choice of Soup, Chowder, or Bisque. The second course offers a pick of Mixed Green Salad, Caesar Salad, or Manor Salad. The succulent supper selections feature 2 Petit Filet, Salmon Encrusted with Crabmeat, Chicken Gina, 12 ounce NY Strip Sirloin, Chicken Cappelini, or Baramundi. And the finale? Cheesecake or Pumpkin Ice Cream.

Yes, this all sounds impressive, but only four locations participate in Worcester Restaurant Week? No, numerous restaurants partake in this early spring event. For additional information regarding this delicious Worcester happening, go to http://www.worcesterrestaurantweek.webs.com/.

Bon Appétit!

Honey has been used for generations as a remedy against different ailments. The product has a discernible sugar component, but some people believe that not all sugars are created equal; and this one, at least in certain instances can actually be beneficial.

What are some of the conditions this syrupy substance is purported to help? Let’s look at a few.

• Immune System. If our immune system is weakened, it becomes easier to contract various illnesses. Honey is believed to strengthen the immune system, likely because of the nutrients it contains.
• Energy. Want a shot of energy? Give honey a try. This natural sugar is thought to provide almost instantaneous results. And, besides an energy boost, it also supports exercise endurance.
• Oral bacteria. Did Mama ever tell you to take a spoonful of honey when you had a sore throat? Well, it seem Mama might have been on to something. This pleasant-tasting sweet is known for its germ-killing properties; and, it’s even supposed to fight unpleasant breath!
• Skin infections. Honey has repeatedly been used as a natural therapy for skin wounds. The low-level release of hydrogen peroxide is thought to be a reason it sometimes works. Certain studies have even shown that honey is a viable treatment for assorted skin conditions.
• Digestion problems. Do you suffer with IBS or digestive problems? Then you may wish to try a daily dose of this bee-produced food. Why? The iron and manganese in honey is thought to support better digestion.
• Toothache. A combination of honey and cinnamon distributed on top of a sore tooth is believed to sooth the pain. Actually, honey and cinnamon are considered impressive for a number of reasons.

There are other conditions that honey might help. Heart disease, high cholesterol, arthritis, and acne are believed to be a few. Naturally, first seek the counsel of a physician before attempting therapeutic measures on your own: your doctor is the best source to address any type of physical condition.

Yes, all this honey talk has likely intrigued a few minds, but commercial honey is not the type to get. It may taste pleasant, but the best kind to use for remedy purposes is raw, organic honey (it tastes yummy, too). Raw, organic honey does not undergo pasteurization; therefore, valuable nutrients remain in place.

Honey may be healing? Sweet!

For more articles on health and wellness, check out more Briar BLOG articles!

Yes, 2012 has officially arrived, and with it comes a new set of expectations we place on ourselves.  So, in honor of the New Year, here are twelve thoughts to consider.

1. Use a daily planner.  A daily planner keeps schedules organized.  Sometimes when we wing it (i.e., store things in our heads), we forget about important dates and events.  You certainly don’t have to make inserts every day, although some individuals will want to do so.  Still, the planner is there to keep plans orderly (and it does!).
2. Accept help from others. Some of us are only too willing to assist others, but we are exceedingly uncomfortable accepting help.  However, when we refuse support, we could be prohibiting other individuals from feeling valuable.  Naturally, each circumstance is different, but be open to help.
3. Keep pleasantries around.  Everyone has something that brings him or her joy.  For example, if thinking about the Red Sox pleases you, then keep a baseball image within eyeshot.  Each time you see the item, you’ll get a boost!
4. Approach projects methodically. Maybe the attic is cluttered or the basement is junk-filled.  Yet, just looking at the rooms produces angst.  In this type of situation, separate the room into sections and approach each part individually.  For instance, one day tackle the left corner of the attic, the next week tackle the right corner, etc.  In time the attic will be clean, and you’ll feel great!
5. Make concessions. People are imperfect.  Some of us may like to think we’re just right, but in truth, we all have idiosyncrasies.  Therefore, when appropriate (you’ll know when it’s right), give others a pass.  Heaven knows we’re all going to need one from time to time.
6. Meet up with friends. Sometimes we make plans in theory, but they never come to fruition.  If there is someone you’d like to connect with, do it (and jot the date down in your daily planner!).
7. Negotiate self-inflicted deadlines. Maybe you mentally planned to have all the seasonal decorations put away by mid January, but to do so would cause anxiety.  Give yourself time!  That does not suggest a license to procrastinate; it just means the world will not fall apart if you have to extend beyond your self-inflicted completion date.
8. Double check. When something doesn’t feel right, it doesn’t feel right.  When you get these types of feelings, double check.  The only thing you will have wasted if you’re wrong is a little extra energy.
9. Walk with optimism. Almost everyone has reasons to feel good and not so good.  Focus on the positive; it will absolutely add extra happiness to your life. For more information on health and wellness, check out the Health and Wellness section of our BLOG.
10. Teach by living. Certain people believe others should listen to their wise suggestions, but they don’t incorporate the advice into their own behaviors (e.g., telling people not to gamble when regularly partaking in gambling).  If we want to effectively teach, we should live what we say.
11. Say it gently.  Say what you mean, but say it gently.  For example, if someone hurts your feelings, you might think about retaliating.  Nonetheless, this approach will likely lead to conflict.  Instead, honestly explain to the person the reasons why you feel the way you do.
12. Pray or mediate. Despite our best intentions, life can be stressful.  Regularly praying or mediating allows us to see beyond our troubles and realize we are part of a much larger picture.

Yes, a New Year is here; thus, let’s make it Happy.

It’s hard to believe that 2011 is coming to a close and a New Year will usher in.  Gosh, it seems like only recently summer was saying farewell.  Now, decorations dress the stores, holiday music fills our hearts, and year-end plans cross our thoughts.

Well, is there a local New Year’s Eve celebration that stands out?  Yes, First Night Worcester!  Here are some things to know about this exciting event.

• First Night buttons are currently available at assorted locations.  Buttons purchased before 12/25 are $10.  Buttons purchased between 12/25 to 12/30 are $12.  And buttons purchased on December 31 are $15.  Children 7 and under are admitted for free.

• First Night Worcester is a non-profit, completely volunteer extravaganza!  It is financed solely by button sales and the kind support of area businesses.

• First Night Worcester encourages multicultural participation and serves to reinforce community camaraderie through a celebration of the arts.

• First Night parking is available at downtown locations and certain venue sites for varying costs.

• First Night will be held regardless of the weather.  Activities take place inside and outdoors, so bundle up the children!

• First Night family entertainment includes music, fireworks, juggling, storytelling, mimes, and so much more.  Activities such as these typically take place earlier (e.g., 2 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.)

• First Night adult-oriented performances cross a broad spectrum of entertainment genres like classical music, rock music, comedy, and magic.  These performances tend to occur in the evening (e.g., 7 p.m. to midnight).

• First Night volunteers will be on hand at site activities if participants have questions; volunteers will be wearing distinguishable First Night hats.

• First Night guests can swipe their WOO cards to receive 3 points (and be eligible for certain prizes!).

• First Night buttons afford discounts at some local businesses before and after 12/31: ask about button extras.

• First Night Worcester will celebrate at the Hanover Theater in honor of its 30th anniversary from 10 p.m. to midnight for an extra charge.  Multiple performers are lined up for this exciting New Year’s Eve event.  Admission is $30, but the cost is only $20 for individuals who flash a First Night button.  Limited VIP seating and a midnight champagne party are also available for $100 per person.  Cash bar opens at 9 p.m.

So much is happening at First Night Worcester, it’s nearly impossible for a few sentences to fully afford this talent-filled evening a proper account.  For additional information, go to www.firstnightworcester.org.

For more BLOG articles on Local Happenings, check out Briar Blog

A glorious period is upon us, and even though economic times are uncertain for a number of people, many of us have multiple reasons to be thankful.  We have a roof over our heads, clothes to keep us warm, and friends to send us cheer.  Therefore, as we immerse ourselves in the holiday season, let’s look at some ways to keep the spirit joyful.

• Put giving into perspective. Gifts mean different things to different people.  For some, it’s a small token to express how much the person means.  For others, it’s serious business that can affect a relationship.  If gift giving has come to control your understanding of the holidays, perhaps it might be time to step back and take a breath or two.  Sure, gifts are nice, but they shouldn’t dominate the season.  And, when materialism takes over, it tends to overshadow the more important festivities.  A thought?  In lieu of buying a loved one numerous or expensive presents, perhaps consider making a donation to a beloved charity in the individual’s name.  What could be more satisfying than knowing you’re helping to make a disadvantaged life brighter?

• Minimize the pressure. Some individuals have multiple chores to accomplish during this cheerful season.  Nonetheless, many of the expectations we believe we have we place upon ourselves.  Therefore, relax.  For example, if you are hosting a holiday dinner, accept participation from those around you so your tasks are not as plentiful (yes, we can rewrite our own rules!).  If that does not seem feasible, then have some of the food catered.  If that is not possible, then create dishes that are easy to prepare.  Essentially, remove the weight from your shoulders.  In the long run, you’ll have a better time.

• Encourage participation. If there are several duties on the holiday list (e.g., decorating, shopping, cooking, wrapping), ask your husband, wife, children, and/or other loved ones for help.  Occasionally we assume that others should know when we are becoming overwhelmed, but they may not see it that way.  A simple request like, “Honey, do you think you can set Sunday afternoon aside and help me?” can go a long way in getting the assistance we need.  Nonetheless, if the person is not receptive, only do the duties you can comfortably accomplish.  For example, if lights don’t end up on the outside tree, so be it.  This is a time for joy, not angst.

• Enjoy the moment. Oftentimes there is one aspect of the holidays that truly warms our hearts.  Yet, we never come to experience this happiness because we’re too busy doing other things.  Thus, if you love holiday music, pretty storefront windows, decorated churches, department store Santas, the town’s grand Christmas tree, lighting the Menorah, volunteering at the local soup kitchen, walking under mistletoe, etc., revel in these things.  Sometimes we become so rushed we forget how to take pleasure in the activities that really mean something to us.

Pretty lights, melodic bells, festive music, colorful decorations, stunning candelabras, happy children, yes, they’re all around.  Even so, a spirit of joy can exist at any time of the year.  So, now and always, let us count our blessings and rejoice!

For more holiday articles, check out more  Briar Blog articles.

Worcester is brimming with exciting things to do, and this is especially true during the holidays.  Actually, this fascinating city knows how to celebrate!  So, as a joyous season quickly approaches, let’s look at some interesting activities taking place.

• Worcester Center for Crafts, 25 Sagamore Road.   What can be more pleasurable the weekend after Thanksgiving than to scope out some unique holiday gifts?  Amazing crafts will be available at the Worcester Center for Crafts as different artisans display their unique wares.  There will be jewelry, metals, pottery, woods, ceramics, and so much more!  A $5 admission cost goes toward WCC programming, and public WOO cards get double WOO points.  This talent-filled festival runs Friday, November 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, November 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, November 27, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.  For additional information, go to www.worcestercraftcenter.org

• Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury Street.  Ready for some remarkable entertainment like Handel’s Messiah performed by the Worcester Chorus, holiday favorites sung by the Salisbury singers, family photo shoots, fabulous decorations, Victorian caroling, holiday-themed tours, and a medley of other fantastic offerings?  Then come to The Worcester Art Museum during the holiday season.  An assortment of joyful events will be available, and there’s sure to be something for everyone.  The fun begins on Friday, November 25 and extends through Saturday, December 31.  For a calendar of events, go to www.worcesterart.org/Events/holiday_at_wam.html

• Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge Street.  Can anyone imagine the holiday season without The Nutcracker?  It’s definitely difficult to envision.  Even if we don’t see the show, just knowing it is available warms our hearts.  Fortunately, one need not travel beyond Worcester to enjoy this classic favorite.  Why?  The Ballet Arts Worcester is presenting this enchanting extravaganza performed by the Youth Ballet Company of Ballet Arts and joined by the Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra at the beautiful Hanover Theatre.  The performances take place on Friday, November 25 at 7 p.m., Saturday, November 26, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, November 27 at 2 p.m.  Tickets are $24 to $36, and certain discounts are available.  For further details, go to www.thehanovertheatre.org.

Yes, the holidays are quickly approaching, and so are some thrilling happenings.  From concerts, to caroling, to crafts, to theater, to ballets, to shows, to family cheer, wonderful times are ahead.  Hence, dust off your celebratory hats and let the excitement begin!