Unraveling the Logistics Puzzle: The Role of Dedicated Contract Carriers

In the fast-paced world of logistics and supply chain management, businesses are constantly seeking efficient and reliable solutions to streamline their operations. One solution that has gained prominence is the concept of Dedicated Contract Carriers (DCCs). Let’s dive into the intricacies of what a Dedicated Contract Carrier is and how it can be a game-changer for businesses aiming to optimize their transportation strategies.

Understanding the Basics

A Dedicated Contract Carrier is a third-party logistics provider that exclusively serves a single customer under a long-term transportation contract. Unlike common carriers that operate on a for-hire basis for multiple clients, DCCs dedicate their resources—trucks, drivers, and management—exclusively to one client. This arrangement allows businesses to have a customized and tailored logistics solution that aligns with their unique needs.

Tailored Solutions for Business Needs

The key advantage of partnering with a Dedicated Contract Carrier lies in the ability to tailor transportation solutions to meet specific business requirements. As DCCs exclusively serve one client, they can align their operations with the unique demands of that business. This results in a more efficient and synchronized supply chain, where transportation services are finely tuned to meet production schedules, delivery windows, and other critical aspects of the client’s operation.

Operational Control and Visibility

Having a Dedicated Contract Carrier often translates into enhanced operational control and visibility for businesses. With a dedicated fleet, businesses can exert more control over the timing and execution of deliveries. This level of control is particularly beneficial for industries with stringent delivery schedules or specialized handling requirements.

Moreover, the dedicated nature of the contract allows for greater visibility into the entire transportation process. Businesses can track shipments in real-time, monitor performance metrics, and receive detailed reports, enabling them to make informed decisions and continuously improve their supply chain efficiency.

Cost Efficiency and Predictability

While it might seem counterintuitive, dedicating resources to a single client can actually lead to cost savings for both the carrier and the client. Dedicated Contract Carriers can optimize routes, reduce empty miles, and enhance overall efficiency, resulting in lower transportation costs. Additionally, businesses can benefit from cost predictability, as the long-term nature of the contract often involves fixed or transparent pricing structures.

Flexibility in Scaling Operations

DCCs offer a unique blend of stability and flexibility. The long-term nature of the contract provides stability for both the carrier and the client, fostering a strong and collaborative partnership. However, this doesn’t mean sacrificing flexibility. Dedicated Contract Carriers can scale their operations to accommodate fluctuations in demand, whether it be seasonal peaks or sudden increases in order volume.

Conclusion

In a world where supply chain efficiency can make or break a business, Dedicated Contract Carriers emerge as strategic partners, providing tailored solutions that align with the unique needs of their clients. This collaborative approach allows businesses to gain operational control, enhance visibility, and achieve cost efficiency in their transportation operations. As the logistics landscape continues to evolve, the role of Dedicated Contract Carriers is likely to become even more pivotal in shaping the success of businesses across various industries.

LILY TRANSPORTATION HELPS SALVATION ARMY DELIVER THANKSGIVING DINNERS TO VETERANS

NEEDHAM, MA, November 21, 2023 — For the fourth consecutive year, Lily Transportation LLC partnered with the Salvation Army and the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Boston to deliver over 225 turkey dinners to Veterans’ families in Brockton and Jamaica Plain, MA during Operation Turkey Drop. Lily donated the services of its drivers and refrigerated tractor trailer trucks to ensure that the November 18 pick-up and delivery of the holiday meals went off without a hitch. Shown left to right above are: Mike Stanton, SVP Operations and Compliance, Lily; Derek Blanchard, Lily Driver; Al Souza, Lily Driver; Joseph Tocci, Department of Veterans Affairs Peer Support Specialist; and Mike Blanchard, Lily Driver.  Lily has been an active community sponsor of a variety of Salvation Army initiatives for the past 20 years. Its efforts on behalf of Operation Turkey Drop have helped the organization provide meals for over 1000 Veterans’ families.

About Lily Transportation LLC

Since 1958, Lily Transportation has engineered and operated highly efficient dedicated logistics systems throughout the United States and Canada.  As a Dedicated Contract Carrier, Lily manages over 60 locations, 1,400 employees and 2,250 assets.  The company attributes their success to a culture of “Exceptional People, Elite Performance”, and is dedicated to making a positive impact on the communities in which they operate and contributing to a sustainable future.  Lily’s headquarters is in Needham, MA. (lily.com) 

Rolling Through the Season: Truck Drivers’ Guide to Managing Seasonal Changes and Holiday Hectics

The fall season brings about a magical transformation in our surroundings, with trees donning vibrant hues of red and gold, cooler temperatures, and the joyful anticipation of the holidays. However, it can also be a stressful time of year due to the busyness of the holiday season, unexpected weather shifts, temperature changes, and longer, darker days.

Certainly, truck drivers face unique challenges during the fall season, including long hours on the road with increased traffic. Here are some tips tailored specifically for truck drivers to help manage stress over the next few months into the new year:

  • Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your truck is in top-notch condition. Regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle, paying attention to brakes, tires, wipers, fluid levels, and lights. A well-maintained truck can help reduce the stress associated with unexpected breakdowns.
  • Weather Monitoring: Keep an eye on weather forecasts along your route, especially in regions prone to extreme weather changes. Equip your truck with the appropriate tools, such as snow chains, ice scrapers, or de-icing agents, to handle adverse weather conditions like snow or ice.
  • Plan Routes Carefully: Plan your routes in advance to avoid congested areas and potential roadblocks. Utilize traffic apps to stay updated on real-time traffic conditions and accidents, helping you make informed decisions while on the road.
  • Rest Stops: Prioritize rest stops and breaks. Fatigue is a significant concern for truck drivers, and fall’s shorter days can make it even more challenging. Take the time to rest, stretch, and recharge to ensure you stay alert and focused.
  • Healthy Eating: Maintain a balanced diet on the road. Stock your truck with healthy snacks and avoid excessive caffeine and sugar. Proper nutrition can help you maintain energy levels and stay mentally sharp during long drives.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and stress. Always carry an ample supply of water in your truck and remember to drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.  Herbal teas are a tasty warmer option for those really cold days.
  • Mindful Driving: Practice defensive driving and remain patient when dealing with increased traffic. Avoid aggressive behaviors and maintain a safe following distance to reduce the risk of accidents. Your safety should always be the top priority.
  • Communication: Keep in touch with your dispatcher. Good communication can help you manage your schedule, plan routes, and address any unexpected issues that might arise during your travels.
  • Emotional Well-Being: Long hours on the road can be isolating, and it’s important to focus on your emotional well-being.  During your breaks and downtime, connect with family and friends through phone calls or video chats to combat loneliness and to lift your spirits. Even a 5 minute call can make a big difference. 
  • Emergency Preparedness: Carry an emergency kit that includes essentials like a flashlight, emergency triangle, first aid kit, extra warm clothing, non-perishable food, and basic tools. In the event of unexpected delays or breakdowns, you’ll be better prepared to handle the situation.

Remember that as a truck driver, your work is essential in keeping goods flowing during this busy time of year. By planning ahead for the holidays, practicing stress-relief techniques, staying active, being mindful on the road, and prioritizing sleep, you can successfully manage stress and make the most of this season’s joys. So, go ahead and savor the pumpkin spice lattes, enjoy the crisp air, and relish the time spent with loved ones, knowing that you’ve got the tools to handle whatever stress may come your way.

2023 National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

The week of September 10th thru the 16th is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. It is the one official week of the year that Americans take time to recognize all truck drivers who keep our country supplied and running.

Lily would like to thank not only our dedicated and professional drivers, but also the 3.6 million men and women in our industry for their hard work in undertaking one of our economy’s most demanding jobs.

Our drivers deliver our customer’s goods safely, securely and on-time, which often times goes unnoticed. The importance and success of our drivers at Lily is appreciated and recognized not only during this week, but throughout the year!

The past few years we have successfully managed up and down economies, fuel pricing, Covid, weather events and other challenges. Our drivers have met all obstacles and our company is better positioned to succeed because of them.

Lily salutes your efforts and your dedication to our industry. Our best wishes go out to all our drivers and their families for a job well done!

-Mike Stanton, SVP Operations & Compliance

ZS Fund L.P. Acquires Lily Transportation to be Affiliate of Transervice Logistics

Transaction provides Transervice Logistics and Lily Transportation with increased scale and flexibility with the combined strength of more than 2,600 employees (over 1,750 drivers) in over 185 North American locations.

NEW YORK, NY, July 10, 2023 — ZS Fund L.P., a private equity firm and majority owner of Transervice Logistics, Inc., announced today that an affiliate managed by it has acquired Lily Transportation Corp., a Needham, Massachusetts-based dedicated contract carriage company. The transaction substantially increases the scale of services and resources that Transervice and Lily bring to the marketplace with the combined strength of more than 2,600 employees (over 1,750 drivers) in over 185 North American locations.

The increased scale is concentrated in the companies’ dedicated contract carriage and freight brokerage offerings, which are in addition to the contract maintenance and full-service leasing services offered by Transervice.

Gregg Nierenberg, President & Chief Executive Officer of Transervice, will also serve as President & CEO of Lily. Alex Lafaras, EVP & Chief Financial Officer of Transervice, will also assume this role for Lily.

“Our investment in Transervice Logistics 16 years ago has been a very successful one due to the company’s ability to provide outstanding service to its customers,” said Bob Horne, Managing Partner of ZS Fund L.P. “Lily’s experienced and knowledgeable operating executives have exhibited this same customer-centric approach, which is what attracted us to the company, and we look forward to the best practices of each company being shared with the other.”

“ZS Fund’s well-earned reputation in our industry as a private equity group looking for long-term appreciation, while allowing existing management teams to lead their companies, led me to choose ZS as Lily’s financial partner,” said John Simourian II, Lily’s President & CEO. “I have every confidence that Gregg Nierenberg is the right leader to ensure Lily’s continued growth. He has been a distinguished leader at some of the largest companies in our industry, and he respects and embraces our proud heritage and the exceptional customers and associates who have made us the great company we are today. While I will no longer be involved in Lily’s day-to-day operations, as Chairman of Lily and a board member and investor in Lily and Transervice, I will be fully engaged in providing support and guidance to Lily’s new leadership.” 

One Owner, Two Separate Companies

Customers can expect business as usual, as Transervice and Lily will be united under one owner and continue to operate as separate companies. Each will retain their independent corporate names and separate field and management teams.

According to Mr. Nierenberg, this dual-brand approach will create more opportunities for customers given the strong cultures already present in both companies known for their customer focus, empowered managers and flexible, agile approach. “These are differentiators we will continue to embrace and promote,” he stressed.

He also expects this transaction to provide more flexibility when matching prospective new customer needs and locations with each company’s strengths. The two companies now have an aggregate of 2,600 employees, including over 1,750 drivers for dedicated contract carriage services, in more than 185 locations and manage approximately 27,000 pieces of equipment. The combined entities’ increased scale will create opportunities for its customers to benefit from shared buying power, knowledge, best practices and technology advancements.

“Transervice and Lily’s cultures and business approaches are remarkably similar,” said Nierenberg. “Both companies have many very long-standing customer relationships. We value these partnerships and will continue to give our customers the white glove touch. Every customer is provided with a senior executive point-of-contact to ensure responsive, efficient management in their day-to-day operations.”

#  #  #

About ZS Fund L.P.

ZS Fund L.P. is a private equity firm engaged in making long-term investments in successful middle-market companies. Since 1985, it has focused on transactions that provide liquidity to business owners while enabling them to maintain a significant ownership stake and keep their company independent. The firm’s strengths are understanding the objectives of business owners, structuring transactions that respond to those objectives, and being constructive partners to help increase the value of the businesses in which it invests. (zsfundlp.com)

About Transervice Logistics Inc.

Founded in 1969, Transervice has a history of service and a tradition of excellence. It is owned by ZS Fund L.P., as well as current and former executives of Transervice. The company’s service offering includes dedicated contract carriage, contract maintenance, full-service leasing and freight brokerage. Transerviceoperates out of more than 135 facilities across North America and manages over 25,000 pieces of equipment.The workforce is comprised of over 1,200 associates, including over 650 drivers and 350 technicians. The company’s headquarters is in Lake Success, NY.  (transervice.com)

About Lily Transportation Corp.

Lily’s transportation roots date back to 1943 when the company assisted the military with truck transport during World War II.  It began as a leasing company in 1958, and in 1967 started a trucking division (soon to become Dedicated Contract Carriage) for a regional food distributor. Lily sold its leasing division in 2007 and concentrates solely on dedicated contract carriage.  The company manages over 2,250 pieces of equipment in more than 50 locations, staffed by over 1,400 team members, including over 1,100 drivers.  The company’s headquarters, The Field Support Center, is in Needham, MA.  (lily.com)

Summer Safety Tips: Keeping Cool and Staying Safe on the Road

Welcome to another scorching summer on the open road! As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brightly, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure your safety and well-being. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and advice to help you beat the heat and stay safe during your summer journeys.

  • Dress Appropriately: While driving, it’s crucial to wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that allows air circulation. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton that help wick away sweat and keep you cool. Consider wearing a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s glare.
  • Hydration is Key: One of the most critical aspects of staying safe in hot weather is staying hydrated. When you’re on the road, it’s easy to forget to drink enough water, especially during long hauls. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and impaired concentration, putting you and others at risk. Make it a habit to carry a sufficient supply of water and drink at regular intervals throughout the day.
  • Plan Your Routes Strategically: During summer, certain areas are prone to extreme heatwaves or thunderstorms. Stay informed about weather conditions along your planned routes by checking weather forecasts and utilizing mobile apps. If you can, try to schedule your trips during cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or evenings, to minimize your exposure to intense heat.
  • Take Regular Breaks: Long hours on the road, combined with hot weather, can lead to fatigue and decreased alertness. To combat this, incorporate regular rest breaks into your schedule. Use these breaks to stretch your legs, find shade, and cool down. Aim for short power naps if needed, as they can boost your energy levels and overall focus.
  • Maintain Your Vehicle: Extreme temperatures can take a toll on your truck’s performance. Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition before hitting the road. Check the cooling system, including the radiator, coolant levels, and hoses, to prevent overheating. Inspect the tires for proper inflation and tread depth, as hot pavement can increase the risk of blowouts. Additionally, don’t forget to inspect the brakes, lights, and other essential components to ensure optimal functionality.
  • Protect Your Skin: Long hours of exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn and, in the long term, increase the risk of skin cancer. Apply sunscreen with a SPF 30 before each trip and reapply it as needed. Consider using sun-protective clothing or sleeves to further shield your skin from harmful UV rays.

As a truck driver, your safety and well-being are of utmost importance. By following these summer safety tips, you can beat the heat, stay cool, and enjoy a smooth and worry-free journey. Remember to prioritize hydration, dress appropriately, plan your routes wisely, take regular breaks, maintain your vehicle, and protect your skin. Stay safe, stay cool, and have a fantastic summer on the road!

Safe travels, truckers!

Everyday Tips to Keep Your Truck Clean

Spring is on the Horizon and with it, the Ritual of Spring Cleaning

Something happens every year around this time when the clocks “spring forward” and the light of the sun is with us longer each day.  Folks feel better and are ready to refresh and step into a new season with a new attitude and perhaps take on some new healthy habits. When we think of the characteristics that bring a sense of new and healthy into our life; clean, disciplined and organized might come to mind.  The spring cleaning phenomenon is a wonderful example of  how good we feel when we are intentional about cleaning and organizing things we care about.  Although spring cleaning most often references our home, it can be applied to all the spaces we occupy and care about, including our body (think cleanse diet), our work space, and of course our vehicles. 

So let’s get ready to bring that fresh spring air feeling into all the spaces and places that matter.  We’ve all heard the saying, “the appearance on the outside represents what’s happening on the inside”.   Translation —  as you create a new habit of discipline around keeping your truck clean (inside and out),  it will spill over into other areas of your life.  You’ll start feeling better about yourself and may improve your diet or start going to bed earlier.  You’ll start taking pride in your job and feel happier more often, you’ll appreciate your home and keep things clean and decluttered.   It’s a fantastic feeling to feel proud of who you are and what you do.  We hope you take on this cleanliness challenge with us as we step into Spring.  Start with your truck and see where it takes you next.

It’s Spring Cleaning Time!

Here are a few cleaning tips to help truck drivers stay organized and operating at their best while on the road. 

  1. Toss it.   Make it a part of your daily routine to throw away trash and food on a regular basis.  Even if you only do a little at every stop. Try making it a habit.

  2. Pack away. Once we are clear into Spring and the ice and snow are in the rear view, take time to put away any winter gear and tools you may have accumulated over the season.    Lighten it up with Spring gear including sun glasses and sunscreen.  Oh, and don’t forget water and healthy snacks to keep you hydrated and energized as the days warm up.

  3. Organize your truck.  Find an easily accessible area where you can store your paperwork and keep it organized. Keep your food and water in spill proof containers.  Neatly fold standby clothing and personal care items.  Stow away items you don’t use regularly. 

  4. Wipe it down.  As you perform your pre and post trips, take time to use a damp cloth for a quick wipe down of the cab interior.  Use disinfectant wipes when necessary.  Check your windshield, windows, and mirrors – they may appreciate some Windex and a buff.  A daily quick clean is a great way to remove pollen, dust, and dirt, not to mention the germs – the stuff that can ramp up allergic reactions or potentially cause you to get sick.

  5. Freshen it Up.  There’s nothing better than the smell of a clean truck!  Vacuum and deodorize your cab when given the opportunity, you will be breathing fresh clean air in no time.  Lily even provides Ion Sprayers for deep down sanitization.

  6. Go for a Wash. Not only do we like a fresh interior, at Lily, we take clean to the next level and aim for our trucks to be shiny on the outside!  A clean truck inside and out is something to be proud of. You will feel better about yourself and your job when you take pride in your vehicle.  Lily has both on site and off site wash options depending upon your location – plenty of opportunities to keep that truck shining like new!

  7. Pet Care. Many carriers, including Lily, offer Pet Ride-a-long programs.  If you have a pet riding with you, keep them secured safely in the vehicle so you are both safe while in motion.  Take time to let them out to go to the bathroom, to eat and to hydrate —  the same things you do for yourself.  We sure do love our pets, but they can become destructive, have accidents or just leave their scent in the vehicle if we don’t do our job and give them the necessary attention.  Keep your pet on a regular grooming/bathing schedule, exercise their mind and body daily and feed them nutritious foods designed for their breed.

There are many ways to keep your truck clean and organized.  Do what works best for you, and reference these tips as a guideline.  We encourage you to take on this new healthy habit.  Having a clean truck will enhance your mood and put you on the trajectory to apply this discipline to other areas of your life.  Let the spring cleaning begin! 

Share your spring cleaning truck pics with us by tagging @LilyTransportation #SpringCleanChallenge.

Celebrate American Heart Month: Join the #OurHearts Movement

February is American Heart Month!

Did you know that people who have close relationships at home, work, or in their community tend to be healthier and live longer? One reason, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), is that we’re more successful at meeting our health goals when we work on them with others. NHLBI launched the #OurHearts movement to inspire us to protect and strengthen our hearts with the support of others.

Here are some facts, how-to tips, and resources to inspire you to join with others, even if you can’t be physically together, to improve your heart health. 

Heart disease is a leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, and as many of us know, hours of sitting in a truck can create an increased risk for our truck drivers.  By middle age, most people have one or more risk factors — diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, being a smoker or being overweight. Having multiple risk factors increases your risk for heart disease.

Why Connecting is Good for Your Heart

Feeling connected with others and having positive, close relationships benefit our overall health, including our blood pressure and weight. Having people in our lives who motivate and care for us helps, as do feelings of closeness and companionship. 

Follow these heart-healthy lifestyle tips to protect your heart. It will be easier and more successful if you work on them with others, including texting and calls if needed.

  • Be more physically active.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Eat a nutritious diet.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Reduce stress.
  • Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep.
  • Track your heart health stats.

You don’t have to make big changes all at once. Small steps will get you where you want to go.

Move more

Invite family, friends, colleagues, or members of your community to join you in your efforts to be more physically active:

  • Ask  someone to walk with you on a regular basis, put the date your calendars and remind to make sure you take that walk. 

  • Get a friend or family member to sign up for the same online exercise class.  Make it a regular date!

  • Grab your kids, put on music, and dance, do jumping jacks, or play an active game.

How much is enough? Aim for at least 2½ hours of physical activity each week— just 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. In addition, do muscle strengthening exercises 2 days a week. Can’t carve out a lot of time in your day? Chunk it! Exercise 15 minutes a few times a day.  Truck drivers, get out and stretch and take a short walk on your break.  This Move More fact sheet has ideas to get and keep you moving.

Aim for a healthy weight

Find someone in your circle who also wants to reach or maintain a healthy weight. (even a small weight loss of 5–10% improves your health.) Check in regularly to stay motivated. Agree to do healthy activities, like walking, cooking a healthy meal, yoga.  Do them at the same time as your buddy, even if you can’t be together.

Eat heart-healthy

We tend to eat like our friends and family, so ask others close to you to join in your effort to eat healthier. Together, try NHLBI’s free Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan. Research shows that, compared to a typical American diet, it lowers high blood pressure and improves cholesterol levels.

Quit smoking

To help you quit, ask others for support or join an online support group. Research shows that people are much more likely to quit if their spouse, friend, or sibling does. All states have quit lines with trained counselors—call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669). You’ll find many free resources to help you quit, such as apps, a motivational text service, and a chat line at BeTobaccoFree.hhs.gov and Smokefree.gov.

If you need extra motivation to quit, consider those around you: Breathing other people’s smoke, called secondhand smoke, is dangerous. Many adult nonsmokers die of stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer caused by secondhand smoke.

Manage stress

Reducing stress helps your heart health. Set goals with a friend or family member to do a relaxing activity every day, like walking, yoga, or meditation, or participate in an online stress-management program together. Physical activity also helps reduce stress. Talk to a mental health provider if you need additional support.

Improve sleep

Sleeping 7–8 hours a night helps to improve heart health. De-stressing will help you sleep, as does getting a 30-minute daily dose of sunlight. Take a walk instead of a late afternoon nap! Turn off the screens and stick to a regular bedtime. Relax by listening to music or a podcast or read a good book.

Track Your Heart Health Stats

Keeping a log of your blood pressure, weight goals, physical activity, and if you have diabetes, your blood sugars, will help you stay on a heart-healthy track. Ask your friends or family to join you in the effort. Check out NHLBI’s Healthy Blood Pressure for Healthy Hearts: Tracking Your Numbers worksheet.

Visit #OurHearts for inspiration on what others around the country are doing together for their heart health. Then join the #OurHearts movement and let us know what you’re doing to have a healthy heart. Tag #OurHearts #LilyTransportation to share how you and your family and friends are being heart healthy. We have a very special place in our hearts for America’s truck drivers and hope you all stay heart healthy and safe out there!

Simple Tips to Fend off Holiday Stress

The holiday season has arrived!  For some, the season rings of sentimentality, joy and family tradition. For others, not so much.  Folks who are lonely, dealing with health issues or struggling financially, often feel worse this time of year.

According to the American Psychological Association, 38 percent of people report a noticeable increase in stress during the holidays. Lack of time, living up to the hype, and pressures associated with gift giving are at the top of the list of stressors.  Perceived responsibilities to create a joyful experience for family adds to holiday stress with half of men (49%) and women (51%) reporting pressure to make sure family members are happy.

Thankfully, there are some simple techniques you can use to lower your stress level and stay healthy this holiday season.  To help keep the “Happy” in your holidays, here’s what to know.

  •  Just Say NO

When the holiday invitations start rolling in, saying “yes” to them all can create feelings of overwhelm, resentment and anxiety.  Even the gatherings that sound like fun ahead of time can end up compounding your stress when you suddenly find yourself with too many things to do and not enough time to get it all done. Accepting the invitations you find most appealing and kindly saying “No” to the rest will help you keep your peace and joy.

  •  Unplug

The constant connectivity to our screens can make it difficult for our brain to slow down and allow us to relax. Try choosing one day a week to turn off your devices.  Ignore those emails and spend your unplugged time on a fun project, a relaxing walk, cooking a yummy meal for friends and family, or reading a great book.

  •  Acknowledge your Stress 

Trying to suppress stress just causes the pressure to mount. By acknowledging and expressing those feelings in a healthy way, you can transform the negative to a positive. Focus on a good outcome AND acknowledge the stress simultaneously.  For example, “I feel exhausted and overwhelmed by all I have to do but I am so excited about all the people coming to our holiday dinner”.  

  •  Do something nice for someone

In the midst of all the parties and shopping, take time for small acts of kindness — you’ll be glad you did!  Studies have shown that both you and the recipient of your kindness experience reduced stress and improved emotional well-being. Acts of kindness can be as simple as paying a compliment, holding a door open, or expressing gratitude toward someone you appreciate.

  •  Walk it Off

A brisk, walk provides a repetitive rhythm that soothes your brain, relieves anxiety and helps you sleep. The busier things become, the more important it is to make time for physical activity.  A short walk can be done anywhere at any time and can make a big difference in your mental health.  Breathe in the fresh air and the sites and sounds of life around you – it’s like pressing the Reset button!

  •  Laugh Often

Laughter reduces stress hormones AND boosts your immune system. Keep your sense of humor as much as possible during the holiday rush and laugh whenever you get the chance.

  •  Let it Go

With the holidays constantly romanticized on TV and social media, there’s a lot of pressure to make them perfect. Over the years, traditions and family can multiply, leading to even more preparation and less time for decompressing. Realistically, you cannot do it all — and that’s okay.  Choose a few things that matter most to you and let the rest go, guilt-free.

  • Maintain your Routine

When our schedules become too crowded, routines are often the first thing to go. During stressful times, healthy eating, staying active, and getting a good night’s sleep are more important than ever. Maintaining your morning ritual, that daily workout, and your wake/sleep schedule will ease the load on your physical and menta/emotional bodies. Nobody likes a grumpy holiday guest!

  •  Add a Little Citrus

Researchers have discovered that the citrus scents of lemon and orange can increase your levels of the mood-influencing hormone norepinephrine, which amplifies feelings of well-being. Citrus-scented soaps, essential oils, or simmering a mixture of lemons, cloves, and rosemary on the stovetop can make a big difference when you find yourself feeling tense.

  •  Don’t Do it Alone 

Even though you may feel that no one can do it as well as you can, you’ll experience more joy if you start delegating or asking for help.  It is often one of the most empowering things you can do and can go a long way toward relieving stress. You don’t have to do it all!Slowing down to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa (add the marshmallow), watch a holiday movie or make a call to a loved one can go a long way to help make the holidays feel merry and bright! 

Fall Seasonal Driving Tips

Fall weather can be erratic with temperature fluctuations and conditions often changing by the hour. Preparation is key to safe driving during the Autumn season.

With all of the beauty and festivity that Fall brings each year, this season also comes with its own unique driving risks.  Slippery roads, decreased daylight, fog and sun glare are to be expected. Autumn weather conditions can change quickly.

Here’s how to plan and prepare for all that this season brings to the road.

The Nights are Longer…

As the days get shorter, you will likely be driving in the dark a lot more.

  • Keep your headlights clean and in proper working order; dim or misaligned headlights can decrease your visibility. Never drive faster than your headlights can illuminate your way.
  • Pedestrians walking, jogging or biking through the streets may be more difficult to see, especially if they are wearing dark clothing.
  • School is in session so use caution and be mindful of children walking to and from bus stops in the early morning.
  • Seasonal animal behaviors create moving obstacles for drivers, especially at night.  There is increased wildlife activity on the roads with small animals like squirrels busy storing food for winter, and large animals like deer, boar and moose out looking for mates.  Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to wildlife crossing signs.  Slow down in areas wildlife is known to frequent.

 Cold Weather

Cooler temperatures bring frost, ice, and even early snow to the roads

  • Fall weather can change rapidly from warm to cold, causing roads to ice. Be on the lookout for black ice and remember to drive slowly and brake gently on bridges and overpasses as these surfaces tend to frost over before others.
  • Check your tire pressure daily. Extreme changes may lead to a loss of tire pressure causing your tires to become less stable and lose their grip and traction. 
  • Before starting your vehicle, scrape away any frost on your windows and check to see that your defrosters are working properly.

Driving in Fog

With cold autumn mornings often comes fog.

  • Driving in foggy weather can be disorienting and dangerous.  When you encounter fog, set your headlights to low even though it may be counter intuitive. Low beams aim down toward the road and improve visibility.   High beams on the other hand, bounce off of fog and reflect back at you, further impairing your ability to see the road.
  • Slow down and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you so that you have ample time to stop if necessary.
  • If the fog is especially dense and your visibility is severely reduced, it may be better to pull of the road and wait it out.  Pull a safe distance off the road and turn on your hazard lights as other drivers may not see you.  Call your dispatcher, they will help you stay safe.

Glare

Autumn’s sunrises and sunsets can cause a large amount of glare, making it difficult to see other vehicles, pedestrians, traffic lights or the road.

  • Be mindful of the time of day. Sun glare tends to be the worst in the early morning and late afternoon. …
  • A clean windshield inside and out is a priority. Grime, streaks and smudges can become magnified when the sun hits your windshield making it even more difficult to see. 
  • Keep a pair of sunglasses in your vehicle at all times to help deal with the glare of that strong sunshine.   If you frequently drive at night, consider anti-glare polarized glasses to reduce that blinding sensation from oncoming headlights. 
  • Slow down and leave more room.  Your visibility and reaction time will decrease due to glare, so it’s important to give yourself a greater gap to react.

 

Wet Conditions

Fall often brings increased rainfall, which creates the danger of wet leaves, an experience like driving on ice.

  • Large amounts of wet leaves make roads slippery and cover up potholes, road bumps, and ice which can lead to accidents. Slow down in wooded areas after a rain shower to avoid hydroplaning.
  • Before starting your car, remove any leaves from your windshield to prevent them from getting stuck under your wiper blades. Also, be sure to replace your windshield wiper blades if they show signs of wear.
  • When driving during heavy rain, slow down, especially around turns. Wet conditions increase the time it takes your vehicle to come to a complete stop, so keep a good distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  • Avoid sudden movements with the steering wheel or slamming on the brakes, as this can cause you to hydroplane. If you feel that you are losing control of your vehicle, steer straight and gently release the gas pedal until you feel the tires make contact with the road surface again.