It is incredible to think that we are already in the year 2010. While reflecting on the things I’ve done over the past ten years, I realized that it has been exactly one decade, to the month, since I moved away from my hometown for the first time to embark upon my collegiate journey in Southern California. During my time away, I attempted to accomplish what most aspiring scholars aim for: independence, new friends, new experiences, and, oh yes, an education.

Back home in Visalia ten years later I’m quite pleased with the direction my path in life has taken me thus far. Nonetheless, the New Year prods me to reflect on the things I’d like to improve. More often than not, the list is long and full of items relative to health and fitness, work, and perhaps most importantly the way I treat others.

There is one thing I’ve learned from years of resolutions: The only ones that have stuck are those that I’ve incorporated into my life within moderation. On the road to self-improvement, it is important to take a break now and then and get back to what make us feel good. For me, such indulgences include comfort food. So for the good of our resolutions, I’d like to suggest that we cut ourselves some slack this month and try out this issue’s Code Seven recipe. Perfectly coordinated and just in time for one of the coldest months of the year, chef Paul has put together a wonderful recipe for chicken and dumplings. This timeless American classic will undoubtedly give you the strength to dive back in to your resolutions, even as it warms your belly and your spirits.

And as your belly is warmed, contemplate keeping the rest of you warm as you read one of our featured articles. Writer Aaron Collins spoke with Steve Carstens, D.O., Medical Director for the Emergency Department at Kaweah Delta, about the dangers of hypothermia and how to avoid becoming a victim of this dangerous and life-threatening condition during the winter months. Part of staying on the right path in life is being prepared, so it is important to know the risks before heading out for a weekend of backcountry skiing or even an afternoon of sightseeing. It is impossible to predict the unforeseen and therefore it’s crucial we know how to stay warm and survive if we find ourselves stuck in a cold-weather emergency.

From myself and the staff at Valley Response Magazine, we would like to wish you all a safe, warm, and healthy new year. May our readers be able to adapt to the turns that our paths take, and may we find unexpected comfort and delight on the journey of 2010.