It seemed like each month in 2021, we were asking, "How is it already (insert month here)?" Now look at us. Just a matter of hours to finish all those things we swore we would get done this year.

It wasn't that long ago that the county was recovering from the windstorm of January 2021. Residents experienced property damage from falling trees and some were without power for days. Crews worked tirelessly to restore power.

The year 2021 continued with the uncertainty of the coronavirus. We saw hundreds more cases in Sanders County and a rising death toll. There were fears of continued shutdowns. But as more people became vaccinated, the COVID-19 fog lifted. People were a little less apprehensive about traveling or gathering. Life returned to a new normal.

We will remember this year as one of conflict and division in our country. We saw it nationally and on a local level. There were public meetings fueled with anger and frustration. Emotions were high due to the pandemic and the possibility of restrictions. The debate over public health and safety and personal freedoms became heated.

That's not to say 2021 was a bad year. We saw neighbors helping each other clean up from that January windstorm. Plains School expanded with a new multi-use facility. New businesses opened across the county. The Sanders County Fair was back with records crowds. The Blue Hawk football team won a state championship.

The last year has been a whirlwind. As we welcome 2022, we wish our readers good health and many happy experiences. Be kind to each other.

—Annie Wooden