A Year of Gratitude: Reflections from the Neuse News & Magic Mile Media Team
As 2024 winds down, I find myself reflecting on the people who make our Magic Mile Media and Neuse News family so special. This year has been filled with challenges, triumphs, and countless moments of growth, both as individuals and as a team. Today, I want to share some of our collective gratitude—a peek into the hearts of the people I am lucky to work alongside every day.
Destiny Stout
Destiny stepped into a new chapter this year, and her reflections remind us of the beauty in embracing change.
Leaving my previous job opened doors I never imagined.
I got married! This year, I found love and adventure in equal measure.
My family has been my constant anchor.
I am grateful for this new job opportunity and for the chance to grow.
I cherish all the exciting endeavors and adventures that have shaped me as a person, mother, and wife.
Also, caffeine. Always caffeine.
Aleatha Thrower
Aleatha’s gratitude radiates positivity and a deep appreciation for life’s small but meaningful gifts.
I am thankful for my family!
I am thankful for my job and the privilege of working with people I genuinely love, doing something I am passionate about.
I am thankful for laughter—it truly makes life worthwhile.
I am thankful for music, the most powerful thing in the universe.
I am thankful for the peace within me, no matter how chaotic the world becomes.
Erica Miller
Erica’s gratitude reminds us to cherish our support systems and the people who shape our lives.
I am thankful for my family and their health.
I am thankful for this job and the opportunity to do what I love with people I admire.
I am thankful for my village—the friends and family who support this working momma.
I am thankful for my beliefs, which guide me through chaos.
I am thankful for the loved ones who are no longer with us. Their legacy lives on in who I am today.
Danny Perez
I’m thankful for another great year And the unconditional support of my friends and family Overall I’m just happy I can continue doing what I love!
BJ Murphy
BJ’s reflections highlight gratitude for life’s intangible treasures and the people who bring meaning to each day.
I am thankful for unwarranted gifts: forgiveness, grace, mercy, ideas, talent, and love.
I am thankful for my father and the daily relationship I try not to take for granted.
I am thankful for my work family, who challenge and inspire me, making work feel more like purpose than a job.
I am thankful for my bride, whose quiet strength and love make our dreams possible.
I am thankful for my two daughters, who are becoming strong, confident young women I am so proud of.
My Own Gratitude
And then there’s me. Reflecting on this year, I am thankful for:
The ability to channel imagination into writing, soap-making, and crafts.
Whether through storytelling or new ventures, I’m thankful to live authentically.
The support of local businesses, readers of Neuse News, and my involvement in the Kinston Smart Artist Program.
A career that allows me to share stories, inform, and contribute meaningfully to the community.
I am thankful for the Lenoir County Farmer’s Market
I am thankful for the strength to pursue dreams, even through challenges.
I am thankful for a perfect cup of coffee, a seamless day, or an unexpected insight.
I am thankful for you, the readers, viewers, and supporters who make this journey worthwhile. I’ve never had an audience before you, and it’s pretty cool.
As we look ahead to 2025, I am reminded that gratitude isn’t just a once-a-year reflection—it’s a daily practice. Thank you for letting us share our stories with you, and for being part of our journey. Here’s to another year of growth, connection, and creativity!
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