Recently our family welcomed a new furry member to our home and we have been smitten ever since. His name is Ace. Somehow his tiny little self has managed to bring more joy and happiness into our home than the usual holiday excitement. He has tucked his little tiny face into our arms, our couch and our hearts. We have watched in wonder at the delight he brings to our 7-year-old son Jayden and can’t help but be reminded how much more God must delight in watching us enjoy all He has provided to us here on Earth.

At a time of the year where we remember most profoundly the gift that we were given in Jesus, I somehow can’t help but imagine God is looking over His people with such joy and delight as He watches us share in the absolute thrill of decorating our trees, visiting friends and family with love and laughter, sharing with those who have less and overall anticipation of what is to come. In celebration of life and the moments of today, we are so grateful for the absolute blessings that we experience each and every day.

Albany, YOU are one of those amazing blessings in our lives…Our hearts are overwhelmed with the friendships, love and support you all have and continue to pour out on us. This city thrives on electric energy and hands held together for a strong structure. This is seen in one of the feature stories inside, Painting Albany Blue, where such community support in shown through the Back the Blue campaign. Also one not to miss, is the story on the Cancer Ties foundation which has impacted waves of love through their outpouring. We hope you will take your time as you work your way through the pages of this issue and really soak in what Albany lives and stands for. The simple word for that is LOVE. Love pours out from this city in so many ways. Some are big and easy to see, some are small any may never be noticed.

Regardless, it's all the same language and we are honored to share some of these stories with you.

As always, we could not do this without the continued support from our sponsors which are listed on page 176. We hope that you will join us in thanking them. Be sure to drop in at any of those locations listed and grab your free copy that they make possible! Shop with them, visit with them and just keep on showing the love you so freely give.

With gratitude in our hearts and love in our souls, from our family to yours, we thank you for allowing us to be a part of your home and hearts and we look forward to many years ahead!