I know, I know: It's difficult for me to believe that Canon-McMillan Patch is 2-years old, too.

But that's how long it's been since we started covering all things Canonsburg, Cecil, North Strabane and the Canon-McMillan School District.

And we've been through a lot together, news-wise, in the past year alone.

There's been the fun stuff: Canonsburg's Fourth of July Parade, North Strabane's municipal park grand opening and some amazing accomplishments by Canon-McMillan staff and students.

And there's been some not-so-fun-stuff ... there have been some downright tough things to write about. We've seen young people charged with homicide and we've lived through winter storms and even Hurricane Sandy.

Then there is one of the state's most controversial issues—Marcellus Shale development and regulation—which has had plenty of local newspegs this past year.

But I wanted to take a minute to remind you that Canon-McMillan Patch isn't just a "news site." I want to make sure I'm talking with you, and you guys are talking to each other (instead of me just talkin' at you).

That's why I again invite you, personally, to put a little more Patch in your life.

Add an announcement.

Add an event.

Upload a picture.

Get your blog on.

Or join us in a coversation on Facebook or Twitter.

Write a letter to the editor (my email address, incidentally, is amanda.gillooly@patch.com).

I look forward to hearing from you, meeting you, and continuing to serve the area.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Reporter,

amanda