I truly hope that every one of us takes time to stop and smell the pumpkin spice candle, or cappuccino, or cup of hot chocolate during this fall season and the short days that take us to the heart of the holiday season. I have noticed more and more of my friends say that Thanksgiving is now their favorite holiday. I started feeling that way many years ago. I’ve pondered that transition many times and I’ve come to the conclusion that Thanksgiving is a very traditional time of remembrance and renewed ties to both friends and family, but without the “gift giving pressure.” Not exactly what the retail world wants to hear and I hope we don’t ever add the layer of gifting to Thanksgiving.