The presents are unwrapped, the tree may be down, and it is now time to start the list of resolutions.

We hope everyone in the Miss-Lou had a good Christmas and enjoyed time with family and friends.

As we finish out the last few days of 2008, we should pause to remember the good things the last week brought.

Just like in years past, the annual Santa Claus parade brought smiles to children throughout Natchez. The Santa Claus Committee traversed a winding path Wednesday, tossing candy and spreading cheer. Thanks to the businessmen who make this parade a reality each year.

In conjunction with the parade, the workers of the Children’s Christmas Tree Fund made Christmas real for some needy children. Santa passed out bags of toys and goodies at Braden School to 350 children.

Community donations funded those gifts and approximately 100 more that were given out earlier in the week.

It is great to see generous community members give a little here and there to make Christmas better for the children.

The Christmas decorations will come down this week, and thanks to Stine Lumber Co., you can dispose of your tree in an environmentally friendly way.

The business is accepting trees free of charge. They will recycle them, creating mulch that will be donated to the city.

As the New Year comes, take a few minutes this week to be thankful for 2008. It was a great year.