Thanksgiving blessings

Despite staggering unemployment rates, home foreclosures and the economic uncertainty that continues to loom, Kinston residents are looking at life with the glass half full.

Families and friends enjoyed time together as they strolled their way from store-to-store at Vernon Park Mall on Wednesday.

The Thanksgiving holiday gives many time to reflect on the things they that make them grateful; family topped the list for many on Wednesday.

Sonda Boles, owner of Sonda’s Gift Gallery, said she was thankful that family from Virginia were traveling south to spend Thanksgiving in Kinston.

“We will be eating and decorating our house for Christmas,” she said. “We’ll also watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to get into the spirit.”

Kinston native Laura Malloy, who lives in Chicago, traveled back home with her daughters, 8-month-old Kayla and 3-year-old Leah, to spend time with her family. She said her entire family was thrilled to be together for the holiday.

“We are thankful that we get to spend Thanksgiving with Grandma this year,” she said.

Lynwood Johnson of Kinston shared similar sentiments; he was looking forward to seeing his extended family, which includes about 16 people.

Cassandra Artis of Snow Hill said she was looking forward to hanging out with family.

“I’m thankful just to be here,” she said.

Friends Kim Marshburn and Pamela Rogers said they were thankful for their families, but admitted their friendship topped the list as well.

“We are thankful for friendship,” they said. “It feels like we’ve known each other our whole lives.”

Sarah Campbell can be reached at 252-559-1076 or scampbell@freedomenc.com.