The year 2012 has flown by at a blistering pace. Before we know it, the last page of the year will flip towards a wide-open 2013. This is the traditional time for us as Americans to sit back and be thankful for what has been blessed upon us. As we reach back and replay the past months it can be sometimes hard to find the blessings. Even amongst the darkest times though, it is the little things that shine the brightest.

I am thankful for friends and family. Living in a small community allows us to recognize each other as we go about our day. Rarely does a trip to the store end without a nod, hello, or longer conversation with someone we care about. That surely is a blessing.

I am thankful for the fall colors we all shared these past weeks. As hard as a drought-ridden summer can be, the spectacular showcase played before us on oaks, maples, and numerous other species of trees was hard not to enjoy. How can anyone see the golden canvas of fall and not recognize that God himself is responsible for such a creation?