By Janet Sutton

Every day we have the opportunity to focus on the positive aspects in our lives; at times, our worries amount to a minor inconvenience like being stuck in traffic.

But at some point, you'll face a life-altering moment that brings you to a crossroad. This is where I am — somewhere between the known and the unknown, trying to find a comfortable path to navigate.

Earlier this year, I was laid off by my employer, it was certainly no surprise but I hadn't worked out all the details of what I would do next with my life. I was accustomed to being on the forefront of news when it came to Kinston and Lenoir County but suddenly I didn't have a reason to be.

At least, that's what I thought.

Not long ago I received a message from B.J. Murphy offering me an opportunity to team up with Neuse News. After our conversation, I took a trip down memory lane and thought about the wonderful people I met, events I attended and all the time I had invested in my journalism career.

It didn't take long for me to realize I was ready to get back to work doing what I loved.

I enjoyed capturing everyday life — people working, children playing or the excitement of a new business opening. I spent 15 years photographing our residents and telling the stories of our community, so now, I'm back on the scene.

Ya'll know me — I'm a mother to an amazing little girl and toy poodle. I love to go fishing, spend time with family and friends and I like to try new recipes. While a lot has changed in my life, my dedication to local journalism remains the same.