Before we close the doors for our holiday break we hold team get-togethers at the Bindery and Lab. Every year they're truly inspiring, and I thought I’d try and tell you why, and say thank you.

The chart shows Queensberry's work in progress for the last nine months, lifted from yesterday's daily management report. It shows, more clearly than words, how our business trebles every November and December, as it has for more than 40 years.



We call this hay-making season, a nod to my farming background. You have to make hay while the sun shines, and when I was a kid our neighbours turned out for each other to make sure it happened.

That’s how it is at Queensberry. Every book, every intricate album, is designed, printed and bound by hand as the orders pour in. Each one precious to a family somewhere round the world. Each one with a deadline.

And then after the storm comes the calm. This year at our break-up Adrienne talked about gratitude. Gratitude first for the team, for putting their lives on hold to get the work out. Then for our customers, and our suppliers. Then for the fact we live in such a blessed part of the world. And then a prayer for those less fortunate than us.

Then we demolish the food and drink, enjoy a last laugh and hug with our friends, and head off for the holidays.

If you’re a regular Queensberry customer, thank you so much for your business, loyalty, friendship and understanding this year. If you’re not, we hope you’ll join us in 2015.

All of us in our little corner of the world wish you and yours the very best of everything in yours. ’Tis the season to be grateful for our blessings.

Cheers
Ian

PS The photos: Setting up hampers to put smiles on a few kid’s faces; Alex waiting for her Dad Stephen to finish work - they’d both been putting in the hours!