Apparel retailers were showing strong double-digit increases over last year. Jewelry retailers also showed strong sales,

The first two quarters of last year were OK but not stellar. If we still have double digit increases in earnings during the third quarter, that would be good news.

January is expected to do well due to the strong sales of gift cards and promotions.

We're proud of our record fourth-quarter results and fourth consecutive year of double-digit earnings increases despite rising funding costs and related industry-wide pressure on margins.

Our goal all year long has been not to give up any double-digit quarters. We've had momentary lapses when we go to sleep or when teams are shooting well. Hopefully, we'll limit those from here on out (in the playoffs).

Our research showed that a significant amount of people were planning to shop later in the season. That attributed to continued increase in sales through Christmas and the weekend after.