At the end of every year, we like to reminisce about our favorite projects. In 2023, we've been fortunate to share videos and articles that hit us right in the heart. Our absolute favorite comes from one of our features writers, Michelle Matthews:
"I carry a reminder of my favorite story I wrote in 2023 – a handkerchief," she says. "My husband died of brain cancer in April, and the first story I wrote after his death was about Lucy, a beloved bloodhound who had recently passed away. I had gone to the home of Garrett and Stephanie Williamson on Dog River here in Mobile, where I sat listening to their stories about Lucy. She was, as the couple told me again and again, 'a character' – a stubborn, independent and lovable pup who volunteered at a children’s hospital and as a greeter at church. As I sat there listening to the Williamsons talk about Lucy’s remarkable life and, eventually, her death, I felt tears stinging my eyes several times. Finally, they spilled onto my cheeks, and I had to tell them that I, too, was experiencing a profound loss. Like the Southern gentleman that he is, Garrett handed me a white cotton handkerchief. When I left, I tried to give it back, but he insisted I keep it. I’ve never carried a hankie in my life, but now it’s in my purse at all times, and I’ve used it again and again since then. One thing I’ve learned in the months following my husband’s death is how kind and comforting people can be when they know what you’re going through. After all, grief is something we all share. It’s the unavoidable price we pay for loving others."
Here are the other incredible stories we worked on this year. |
