Eons ago, I worked for a daily newspaper that covered three South Carolina counties just south of Charlotte.

I think my husband's car hates me.

As a new year begins, it's appropriate to evaluate how far we've come, how we got to where we are, and what lies beyond the horizon. A scan of recent national headlines provides all the information needed to be baffled at what has become commonplace, and completely amazed at the humanity present in our own chaotic times.

After closing out last week's edition, several members of the Citizen "family" sat in a circle in the newsroom, sipping a freshly made batch of "jingle juice" and reminiscing about Christmases past. The question arose, "what was your most memorable childhood gift?"

Sometimes, the best stories come together when the writer just gets out of the way.

This is the time of year when Keith Larson on WBT 1110 AM tugs at my heartstrings. It's when he plays, somewhere near the anniversary of its original airing in December 2003, his interview with the most remarkable 12-year-old most of us have ever heard speak. Her name was Hope Stout.

Bernadette Cooper decided not to wear her wedding ring Saturday morning.

Life's best moments can be surprisingly simple.

It's human nature.

There are still a few days left for mudslinging, name calling, political posturing and slimy shenanigans for those still waiting for the much-anticipated fury, fervor and fireworks surrounding this year's local elections, but if the last few months have been an accurate gauge, don't hold your breath.