It was the story of the year, according a to a recent poll taken across Saskatchewan. There's no question the flood of July 2011 was big news and that it also had a tremendous impact on the province and the economy but fortunately - for the most part - it's behind us and we're moving forward.
There may have even been some positives that came out of it all.
"I'm so proud of our community and residents, because as bad as it was, and as much as people struggled, they still helped each other out," points out the City of Weyburn's Manager Bob Smith.
"They helped us out and they helped their neighbours out, and they kept a positive attitude that things were going to get better and we were going to get things done.
"As devastating as it was - and we were at the point of crying several times - it was really good to have the support of the people."
The same happened in Yorkton and in other hard hit areas across Saskatchewan. People reached out and as trying as the times were, residents got through it together. That's what the people of the prairies do.
There's still work to be done. There is infrastructure to be fixed. Roads to be repaired and housing needs to be attended to. It all takes time but what's important is there were lessons learned, positives accomplished in the aftermath, and people have gained a sense that they can make it through the challenging times.
It's a new year for fresh starts.
"We're hoping for a great spring this year and - touch wood, praying, all that stuff - things are looking promising," says Smith.
That they are.
Wishing you and yours a happy and prosperous New Year.
