Top 10 Things I am Grateful For This Thanksgiving

Virgil Winston:Marketing Guru

#10 I’ll start with the obvious. I am exceedingly grateful for my beautiful wife. I would say it goes without saying, but if I didn’t say it, I might end up being grateful we have a comfortable couch in the den.

#9 Next up, my charming children—and while they are all wonderful, I am particularly thankful that my youngest is turning out to be a chip off the old block and will someday take over the mantel of marketing guru.

#8 I am also thankful for “Law & Order” reruns—what can I say? I’m a purist. The new shows just don’t do it for me.

#7 The Good Book, otherwise known as the dictionary, has been my closest companion on the sleepless nights I often endure due to my incurable insomnia.

#6 Cheese—Hands down, it’s my favorite food. I love it on pizza, on pasta, in salads, over eggs and all by it self. It’s a perfect food and I’d eat it every day if my waistline would allow it. I know I’m not alone in this and if you want to show your gratitude to important clients, top performers in your company or even your friends and family, the Wisconsin Variety Package is the absolute ideal way to accomplish that. This cheese package includes half-pound blocks of medium and mild Wisconsin cheddar, a 5-ounce stick of beef salami and a 5-ounce stick of tangy summer sausage. Your logo or promotional message is fired-in to the black walnut and maple cutting board. A handy cutting knife completes this gift set that is sure to be appreciated by all who are lucky enough to receive one.

#5 Platinum Status—This one must be experience to be appreciated. I cannot count the times I have been late to the airport and thanked the travel gods for being able to go through first class check-in on a coach ticket. Plus, since I usually travel with a whole suitcase filled with promotional products, I really appreciate the free checked baggage and my long legs are always grateful for the exit row seat my status affords me.

#4 I am also indebted to my book editor, without whom my marketing books might never be read.

#3 Strong coffee—let’s just say I single handedly keep Starbucks, Peet’s, Seattle’s Best and the Coffee Bean in business.

#2 My blue Bic—a writer is nothing without his favorite pen.

#1 And finally, the number one thing I am grateful for (insert drum roll) is…promotional items! After all, marketing is my business and my passion. It’s fair to say I live for marketing. This month, my favorite promotional item is the Turkey foam stress ball. It’s a fun way to promote your company, organization, hospital or school, while also helping everyone who receives one squeeze away the stress of everyday life.