I’m not quite sure when or how it happened, but somehow December is drawing to a close and 2018 is right around the corner. Before we take a break from Santa’s ad shop to spend some quality time with our families, I’d like to thank our wonderful clients for giving us the opportunity to make a living doing what we love (and perhaps, more importantly, for helping ensure that we still love doing it when the work day is through).

As I reflect on the end of another successful year, I’ve never been more certain of a belief I’ve held onto for the last 27 years: it’s not just about the work. It’s about the people—the ones you work for and the ones you work with—who make the work not just enjoyable, but great. And I can say, with humble gratitude, that I think I work with some of the most giving, caring and, of course, talented people you’ll ever meet.

Like most of you know, this year marked another major milestone for the CNP Family. Our founder, Chris Nikdel, was named Winter Haven’s Woman of the Year. While I listened to the award presentation, I couldn’t help but notice that the same positive qualities used to describe Chris—genuine, generous, conscientious, funny—are the same traits that shine through our work, and our office, today.

We’re unusually fortunate to work at a company that has such a strong foundation, such incredible people, such rewarding clients and such a snarky Christmas tree. So thank you, everyone, for another banner year. I can’t wait to see what the next one brings. I look forward to seeing all of you in the new year and, as always, coming to work.