This time of year, we can’t help but count our blessings. Thanksgiving brings us together with family and friends to reflect on what really matters in life. Thanksgiving is truly my favorite holiday. One of the reasons may be that the weather finally turns cool(er) in Louisiana, as Fall is the season of change. Holiday time brings out smiles, laughter, family gatherings, and of course, cooking. I can’t say that my kids have memories of waking up on Thanksgiving morning to me cooking hot, fresh muffins or to a pumpkin pie baking in the oven in time for our feast.

But Thanksgiving IS about tradition. In my home, we sit together and watch the Macy’s Day parade on TV while I make chocolate chip pancakes and hot chocolate from scratch (although my version is sugar-free). Then we get ready to go to my parents’ home when the real feast begins. Even with tradition, however, change occurs.

2020 is on the horizon, and the forecast is clear. How do I know this? Because the forecast will be whatever we choose it to be. We are, for the most part, in control of our own destinies in business. If we choose to have a good year, plan for it with meticulous detail, and rely on our industry partners to support us all the way, we will succeed. Remember, to see that reality come to life, it takes change. Don’t be afraid of it and ask for help.

Wherever you are this Thanksgiving, take some time to think about what you are most thankful for. I am eternally grateful to be surrounded by so many special people in our business, as well as in our industry. It’s events like the NASGW Expo that remind me of the good friendships that we have all built over the years. The fun will continue in a few short weeks at the SHOT Show.

Change is everywhere. My kids no longer live at home, and instead of watching the Thanksgiving day parade on TV, my oldest will be watching from her bedroom window, which is just blocks away from the parade route. Espresso martinis in the evening will replace the hot chocolate in the morning, and the smell of burned pancakes will no longer be in the air. Embracing change IS good, and we are taking advantage of those little opportunities to make it a positive one.

This Thanksgiving, enjoy your time with your families, eat lots of turkey, and be sure to watch some football. Be grateful and give thanks to those women and men who are not with their families because they are far away fighting for our freedom. May you all have a blessed holiday because we all have so much to be thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Laurie Aronson
NASGW Chairwoman