Our family recently returned from a road trip to Maine, including several days camping in Acadia National Park. I have to say—it was stunning. The rugged coastline, mountains, trees, and ocean were a beautiful reminder of the natural wonders our country offers.

Unexpectedly, I also found myself refreshed by the drive itself.

Passing through small towns along the way, seeing Main Streets lined with American flags, and catching brief glimpses into the everyday lives of communities, I couldn’t help but notice the countless ways people invest in creating a sense of place, identity, beauty, and community pride.

Sometimes it was something historic:

  • A plaque overlooking the Kennebec River telling the story of Benedict Arnold moving his regiment through there towards Quebec City during the Revolutionary War.

Sometimes it was an act of generosity:

  • The public beach at Seal Harbor that had been purchased by a donor and gifted to the town, and where our kids spent hours playing in the sand and watching the tide come in.

Sometimes it was neighbors supporting neighbors:

  • A Wednesday pie sale at a local church on Mount Desert Island raising money for the church’s outreach.

  • A small community playground tucked behind a gas station, complete with a painted rock walkway, donated toys, and a sandbox, lovingly maintained by someone who cared enough to make it a welcoming place for children.

  • A canoe rental shop that referred us to a competitor down the street because their boats would be better suited for our family.

And sometimes it was simply small details:

  • Decorative touches on homes—from painted quilt patterns to a whimsical faux golf hole in someone’s front yard.

Especially in communities that appeared to have fewer economic resources than Laurel, I was reminded that building a great place doesn’t always require a large budget. More often, it comes from people who choose to invest their time, creativity, generosity, and pride into the place they call home.

Across small towns and cities throughout America, people are quietly doing the work of community building every day. They’re preserving local history, supporting local institutions, creating welcoming public spaces, celebrating their culture, and making their corner of the world just a little more beautiful than they found it.

As I settle back into life in Laurel, I return with a renewed appreciation for what makes our community special — and with fresh ideas and renewed energy to help make Laurel an even better place to live, work, strengthen families, and play!