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Tis the season for counting: calories and blessings. I won’t even try to count calories, and as for blessings, there are simply too many of those to count, too. But I’ll take a stab at it …

For starters, there’s a certain man who came into my life 12+ years ago. 

Each of us had learned from two failed marriages, and we both were ready to try again. This time, it worked – and it just gets better and better with time. Scott Gibb, I love you more than words can say.

Scott, let’s keep lovin’ life together!

And then there’s my “other” family …

… with whom Scott competes for my time. My employees: Gabriel, Howard, Whitney, and Ellen. We’re a diverse group with complimentary talents, but we all share the same passion for this work and a commitment to creating unforgettable travel programs for our customers. It took me a lot of years, and a lot of missteps, to assemble such an exceptional team. I love coming to the office to collaborate and create with all of you.

Celebrating Gabriel’s 50th birthday with a “summer of love” theme!

And I recently re-connected with three of my former staffers who I treasured then and now: Tommie (Hiss) Kozlov, Angela (Perkins) Helgeland, and Lesley Ford. I so enjoyed chatting about the “good old days!”

I’m grateful for my wonderfully loyal customers …

It was the mid-80s when I reluctantly assumed ownership of this company – when the business world reeked of junk bonds, unethical dealings, and corporate greed. I was a misfit. But I stubbornly stuck with the one thing I knew how to do well – take care of my customers. Making money was secondary. Hardly a business “strategy,” as is so obvious nowadays – but it worked.

This year, I celebrated 30 consecutive years of partnership with the Western Region of the National Electrical Contractors Assn. Thanks to the many members and NECA staff for whom it’s been a privilege to serve … and I look forward to seeing many of you in Budapest next summer!

So many friendships with NECA members and staff – thank you all!

And I must specifically thank two other gentlemen, both of whom have supported me for years and years with friendship and referral business: Jack Daly and Don Riddell. 

Jack … from corporate client to WOWee to friend – my sincere thanks!

Don, remember that Vistage meeting from long, long ago – when you told me that my idea for the WOW! Travel Club was “interesting,” but that you were not my customer??? You were right and wrong about that! Thanks to you and Sharon for all the WOW memories, and for the many referrals that helped me get it launched.

Trusted suppliers, who I consider friends …

We could not do what we do if we didn’t collaborate with like-minded travel industry professionals who are as fanatical about service and creativity as we are. If I dare to name names, I’m certain to forget some. You know who you are – so please accept my sincere gratitude for your partnership and your friendship.

And, last but not least, (and far too many to mention) – my friends and family … I love you all and am grateful every day for every one of you!