Despite this attack, a steady improvement in security is another cause for hope.

ECONOMIST: Somalia��s new president: Can he really rescue the place? | The

Otteau, an appraiser and founder of Otteau Valuation Group, reported that strong job growth had led to a "steady improvement in the home purchase market" in New Jersey over the last 18 months.

WSJ: Housing Signals Mixed

We now expect upgrade volumes and device subsidies to decline after years of steady growth, driving a sharp improvement in margins.

FORBES: Credit Suisse Ups AT&T, VZ Ratings, Trims Apple, RIM Ests; Carriers Get Tough On Subsidies

Net earnings were propelled by top-line growth with a steady recovery in the U.S. housing market driving consumer appetite for home improvement products.

FORBES: Home Depot Outpaces Lowe's As Housing Recovery Boosts Sales

The lack of achievement in maths had once been a major cause for concern - and the education department has highlighted that there has been steady improvement in the subject.

BBC: Handwriting

On a positive note, the Beige Book acknowledged the improvement in real estate markets, indicating activity had expanded or remained steady in most districts.

FORBES: Beige Book: Fed Reports Fiscal Cliff Hit Holiday Season, Retailers Suffered