The holidays seemed to work out reasonably well for them. They really did get out there earlier and presented different kinds of merchandise and a slightly more upscale image.

They're making strides with new ads and new drinks, but there are still a lot of weak spots in Europe and volumes in the U.S. haven't been impressive.

On the holidays you can wear whatever you want, and I always tell them there's a dress code for everyone. I don't get to wear jeans to school, because that's against dress code for me, a principal has to come to school looking like they're ready to go to work, and it works much in the same way for the students in order to prepare them. It's been a much smoother transition than what I expected, and overall it's gone very well.

He's been away on holidays in Europe and was due back at work on Monday. It's quite unbelievable the fact that he won't be there.

With people away from their homes -- at parties, shopping or just at work -- the holidays can be an open invitation for burglars. Homeowners can help stop these crimes by installing and using a home security system or by attaching motion sensors to their outdoor lighting.

Most retailers work on the holidays year-round.