Laurel of Northeast Georgia December 22

laurel of Northeast Georgia from the publisher

The decorating began early at my house this year. When the Christmas décor hits the shelves in early October it’s hard to resist, even though I swore I wouldn’t skip over Thanksgiving. Lights and shades of color adorn our tree. Ornaments with sentimental value are scattered about and bring back sweet memories of holidays past.

Post mid-term we hopefully are seeing less commercials tearing down opponents and more of those amazing holiday commercials from Publix that can make a grown man cry. Make this Christmas about Jesus, family and helping others. Read the Nativity story before opening your gifts and eat, you can diet in January.

In this issue you’ll find lots of recipes to add to your Christmas meals. Stories of kindness, hope and community. We will feature another of John Shivers’ Christmas books, the dynamic art of Mathew Robertson and a look back with the Rabun County Historical Society. So take a break from it all and enjoy your Laurel with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate or spiced cider. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

We are looking forward to 2023 as it is our Laurel’s 20th year. Twenty years of showcasing the mountains and the people and places that make them so special. We could not do what we do without you: our advertisers and our readers. The businesses that support the magazine are why it keeps going and we are so grateful. Look for some special articles from Laurel’s past, events and new things from us in the coming year. Twenty years is a big deal and we plan to celebrate! Merry Christmas! Tracy, Dianne, Cindi, Michael, D’Anna and Lucas

Arts

Faith in Christ

On Our Cover – Matthew Robertson – Matterfolk Art

Iam not sure if an affinity for art is genetic but it seems that there may well be a creativity gene and our December cover artist has it. Born in Ellicott City, Maryland, Matthew Robertson grew up in an art and framing gallery. Being raised in that atmosphere, it was much later in life that he would realize his art ability and the desire to explore it. Matthew’s dad Gary Robertson followed artist Andrew Wyeth and his art is similar in nature. More realistic with a farm/country theme. Matthew’s brother Jesse is also an artist but none paint just like Matt, in fact, I’ve never seen art quite like his. He calls it Psychedelic Folk Art. “The painting has to flow, the paint has to move, my art has fluidity,” he told me when I visited with him and his wife Summer. During first grade, his family moved to Williamsburg, Virginia. He spent the next 15 or 16 years there. Surrounded by art, he took it for granted; it was such a part of everyday that he didn’t appreciate it. When he was 14 years old he went to work in the food service industry. He started as a dishwasher, then a cook and eventually a highly regarded Chef. He knows food and he has a keen sense of what good food is and he has a passion for it.

In his mid 20s, Matthew moved to Richmond, Virginia and began to explore art. He attended concerts that included very fast paced painting on large canvases to the beat of electric dance music. “It was like Techno/Hippy and I loved that atmosphere. I was still working in restaurants, working thirteen hour days and then painting into the night. It was hard to do both,” Matthew said. He moved next to Asheville, North Carolina. The name of that town has become synonymous with art. The art community in Asheville is buzzing and creating is a lifestyle there. Matt decided to go full time with his art. He was commissioned to paint a mural for the Asheville Chocolate Company that was a large project. Today they use the art on their candy wrappers and dessert cups.

He was staying busy painting but a friend who owned a restaurant there needed his help in the kitchen. He worked as a Chef for a while before discovering Rabun County. After spending some time here he began cooking and was introduced to the rich folk art community here by Folk artist Kip Ramey. He took a job working at Sunday Diner, known for good food, great service and a casual atmosphere. It was there that he saw Summer Hart for the first time. She noticed him as well and the two intentionally sought each other out until a date was planned. The two are a great fit and together are raising Elijah, Matt’s son.

These days Matthew is painting a lot. He recently completed a mural on the building that houses Blue Hound Barbecue in Scaly Mountain, North Carolina. He has some art at Gallery 441 in Dillard and his work is featured on his Instagram (@matter_art) and on Facebook (@MatterFolkArt). He finds animals interesting subjects to paint, he likes big canvases, bold colors and his art does flow. The process is complex, he first creates the painting on his tablet

then adds a grid to his canvas and transfers the drawing to canvas before the brush is ever dipped in the paint. He has found acrylics are ideal for his painting style and prefers good quality paints. He is in high demand for murals and dog paintings, capturing

Summer Breeze Creations

Although she defers to her husband as the artist, Summer has great skill at Jewelry making. She was born in Valdosta, Georgia but her family moved to Rabun when she was 3 years old. Her grandmother Ruth Watts lived in Rabun and her daughter Tanya and husband Billy wanted to move here to raise their children. Summer, her oldest, graduated RCHS and went to work in the food industry as a server and later as a bartender. She was working at Kingwood resort when she met Matt.

Summer has always loved crystals and gems and wanted to explore jewelry making. She and Matthew attend the Gem Show in

personalities and pleasing owners. He is looking forward to having some time to paint other things once the commissions are done and delivered. I think Matthew is very gifted and his style is unique and interesting I think we’ll see some great things from him.

Franklin every year and purchase gems such as Amethyst, Citrine, and Jade. She has a great resource for high quality beads, findings, silver and gold filled pendants, and stringing materials. She has given her jewelry business the name Summer Breeze Creations and creates earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

Summer has a page on Facebook and Instagram where she displays her creations. They can be purchased through social media channels and she does make custom pieces as well. Summer told me that some of her favorite crystals are blue flash labradorite and pink and purple sodalite, although she loves them all. To find Summer’s page on Facebook search @ummerBreezeCreations9. Her jewelry would make an excellent stocking stuffer or gift for those on your list.

North Georgia Arts Guild

The Magic of Color and Texture in Martha Ogletree’s Pottery

By Tricia Moore

The lovely color schemes in Martha Ogletree’s pottery might be the first thing that draws you to her work. Or it might be the many different textures she uses to make each piece truly unique. Then, there is also the variety of shapes and sizes that she works with that makes her work eye-catching. Martha states that no two pieces of her pottery are exactly that same. “Each one captures my mood at the time or personality so that it speaks ‘Martha’,” she says.

The beautiful colors in Martha’s pottery did not come by accident or quickly or easily. She says that while she feels that she has definitely found her look, it took “years and years of trying different glaze colors and applications, and learning how to properly fire them in my electric kiln” for her to achieve that. Martha loves blues and thus incorporates some blue in everything that she creates. You might say it is her base color from which her color combinations flow. She says that wheat and a small amount of rust color can make the blue “pop”, and sometimes she uses a spearmint green or desert sand yellow to “change it up a little.”

Being particularly interested in texture, Martha has experimented with many different tools and methods to incorporate texture into her pieces. These include many natural objects such as leaves, shells, tree bark and pinecones, as well as a handcarved rolling pin, burlap and even decorative buttons. And she is always on the lookout for some new interesting texture to incorporate into her work. She even creates her own molds in her quest for texture.

Martha’s artistic journey began when she was “around six or seven” and her mother gave her a pastel set that she had used in high school. Her mother was an artist who “painted exclusively in acrylics and mostly on canvas.” She also did copper enamel jewelry, which she fired in her own small kiln. Martha states that her mother was her biggest cheerleader when it came to her creativity, and that she bought her brushes and paint so that Martha could express that creativity.

Tricia Moore is a retired teacher, having taught both English and Art in public and private school settings. She is currently an active member of the NGAG and has held several positions on the board. With her background in both art and writing, she feels that writing the NGAG featured artist article in the Laurel of Northeast Georgia is a good fit and something that she will greatly enjoy doing.

It was many years, a marriage and three sons later that Martha took her first pottery class. She states that it gave her an outlet to express herself in a “way that was positive.” “I could focus on kneading and wedging the clay, and I found that when I was through doing that, all my frustrations were gone. I could go back to ‘mothering’ with a new perspective.” She found that she loved all the facets involved in working with clay, from using the wheel to form her pottery to working with glazes. She states that she became fascinated with the effects that could be achieved by layering the glazes over each other and over various textures. Over the years she has taken many pottery classes under several different instructors. Due to personal issues, including caring for aging parents and a husband diagnosed with leukemia, Martha did not have the opportunity to work with clay for several years. It was after the passing of her parents and husband that she was drawn back into it by trying something new – slab building with clay. She took a series of classes at the Hudgens Art Center in Gwinnett in slab building and became “hopelessly hooked” on it. In addition

to the hands-on classes Martha has taken, she watches a lot of you tube videos on the subject of clay. CLAYSHARE with potter Jessica Putnam Phillips, and THE CLAY LADY out of Nashville, Tennessee are two of her favorites.

When Martha met her current husband, Thomas, they were both widowers and had been caregivers for loved ones. “Our caregiving experience became our first bond of friendship,” Martha states. Thomas knew nothing of her artistic talent until their second year of marriage when she asked him if he minded if she signed up for a pottery class. Not only did he not mind, he was very excited for her and became her biggest fan. He bought her the main tools of the trade – a kiln, slab roller, top-of-the-line wheel and adjustable stool that has made working in clay even more enjoyable for her.

Martha can be reached by texting to her cell phone at 678-488-1774, emailing her at MarthaOgletree@hotmail.com and on Facebook at Martha Ogletree Pottery.

Much Better Than I Hammer and

By John Shivers

In early 2018 a reader began to pester me to write a Christmas novel. I had fifteen books in print, with several more still rattling around in my head. I didn’t need another book idea to further muddy the brain cells. But the idea of a Christmas-themed book intrigued me. The Muse and I collaborated, and Three Gifts for Christmas was born.

It was just a one-time deal. Yet many declared the book Hallmark® movie quality. Others demanded to know about the next Christmas book. Say what?

Fast forward to 2022.

In the fall of 2021, we sold our condo to go back to the family farm and build our dream cottage. We moved into very small, tight temporary quarters. In early January, I began work on Rekindling Love for Christmas, about a young father who lost his wife in a horrific accident. Unable to cope, he abandons his young son who was almost killed with her. Where the genesis of this storyline originated, I don’t have a clue. Suddenly, one day, it was just there, and it’s slightly different from the storylines and main characters in the previous four Christmas novels – Three Gifts for Christmas, Weaving a Family for Christmas, Moonshine for Christmas, and A

Blessing for Christmas

Anthony Dawson, the absentee father, is suddenly confronted with the demand that he reassume his parental responsibility or the boy will go into foster care. How Anthony rises to the occasion, and how he doesn’t, with a son who doesn’t remember him, is the nugget of this story. And for too long, a nugget was all it was. I was working every day with the carpenters to stretch our dollars.

In hindsight, I’m much better at putting words together than I am at sawing boards and nailing them into place. I should have put my hammer down and jumped on the keyboard, because there almost wasn’t a 2022 Christmas book. But Christmas is a time of miracles, and a season of love. I’m thinking that Christmas magic showed itself a little early this year, because I managed to write more than 50,000 words in slightly more than three weeks, thus rekindling the book that almost wasn’t. And I didn’t have to use either a hammer or a saw to make it happen!

Michael on the Map

By Michael Detrick

In this series I will be traveling to the towns of northeastern Georgia and western North and South Carolina, sharing my adventures and discoveries as I meet the locals who make up the area. Hop in my Jeep and let’s hit the road!

Take 11: Blairsville, GA

Hello, readers! Michael on the Map was Michael off the grid for the month of November as I was traveling elsewhere. I went to a wedding, rode some rollercoasters, saw some of my best friends, and spent some time in my home state of Florida. I am back to my (brrrrr) mountain abode and happy to return to pen to paper and fingertip to keyboard as we close out this year. While I did not write an entry for November, I visited where I would eventually write about, and returned there to showcase my findings for December.

My original travels found us ebbing into Fall, with some green remaining, but the majority of the leaves had turned into that magical menagerie of yellows, oranges, and reds. The weather was particularly tricky during this time, requiring layers in the morning you would peel off as the day progressed. Since then, all of the leaves had achieved their most vibrant Autumn hues before retiring to the forest floor, leaving behind that twisted network of barren winter branches.

Looking towards the end of 2022, I looked further west within Georgia than I previously had and found my next point of interest in Blairsville, GA, which sits 57 winding miles away from my backwoods cabin. Blasting some Led Zeppelin, I wound myself deep into the depths of North Georgia!

Founded in 1835 due to gold strikes, Blairsville is the county

seat of (and remains the only incorporated town in) Union County. Thought to be named after Revolutionary War Hero James Blair, the town remained a gold-mining center until 1910, known then for the purest and most brilliant gold found in this part of the country. Sitting at an elevation of 1883 feet, the town is also worldfamous for its sorghum, and is the only area in Georgia that grows sorghum especially for syrup-making.

And the area has other bragging rights.

“We know there’s other counties and communities, but we are very proud of what we have right here. We really think that Union County and Blairsville is the most beautiful place in North Georgia. We’re roughly 50% National Forest, so we have the trees, we have the leaves, and we have some of the most beautiful hiking trails,” said Steve Rowe, President/CEO of the Blairsville Union County Chamber of Commerce.

Nature in spades, folks.

I got to enjoy some of the area’s spectacular scenery during my

visit to Vogel State Park. Nestled at the base of Blood Mountain at an elevation of 2280 feet, the park lies wholly within the Chattahoochee National Forest and is one of the richest botanical areas in Georgia. Covering 233 acres and centered around beautiful Lake Trahlyta, Vogel is one of the first of two state parks established in Georgia in 1927. Both the lake and nearby Trahlyta Falls are named for a Cherokee Indian princess who, legend says, drank from a secret magic spring, which blessed her with eternal youth and beauty. Her fame spread throughout the land, until she was eventually kidnapped by a would-be suitor she had rejected, and it was only then that her looks began to fade. Legend says. The trail to the falls is an easy 1-mile loop along the lake, and then through hardwood forest down a well-maintained path. Approaching the waterfall, you descend a wooden staircase to an observation deck that sits directly in front of the 50-foot cascade. Stay for a while and feel the mist on your face as you take in nature’s splendor. A side trail offers access to the base of the falls for those feeling a bit more adventurous.

And on these adventures, I like to enlist in the help of the locals in choosing where I should grab a bite to eat. On my first visit to Blairsville, on the recommendation of Crystal with the Chamber of Commerce, I set out for Jim’s Smokin’ Que. After all, you can’t go wrong with a place whose slogan is “You can smell our Butts for Miles!”

I also love my record collection (I have about 1000), so because the Blairsville Pickers Barn has within it a record store, I next set my sights out for this 27000 square foot indoor mall jam-packed (but organized) with antiques, jewelry, coins and silver, knives, pottery, glassware, furniture, hand-made quilts, books, records, and more. The next month, I returned to the area with some friends and family. Because I had an antique nut on my hands, we found ourselves back at the Pickers Barn.

Another day in town meant it was also time to check out another local eatery – and luckily – I haphazardly stumbled upon Union County’s oldest diner, in operation since 1931. Being the history buff that I am, I was excited to get to talk to Jan Teague, whose extended family has run the operation since 2006. “What makes this place so unique is that a divorced woman opened it in 1931. Divorced women didn’t do that,” Jan said. “She started selling sandwiches from a wagon in the square and saved up enough money to buy this place. It’s been in operation ever since.”

Her name was Margie Henson. Margie Henson made me think of Mildred Pierce, minus the murder plot. Good for Margie!

Hole in the Wall made it into Explore Georgia’s Top 100 Plates as well as the state culinary guide for their famous stuffed French toast. My tastebuds weren’t feeling particularly sweet that day, and I had a fried catfish po’boy instead. Such a rebel.

Recipients of Money Magazine’s Best Barbeque in Georgia, Best Ribs in Georgia, and voted #6 for Best BBQ in the country by TripAdvisor, Jim’s Smokin’ Que comes from humble beginnings. Starting in 2010 at the (locally famous) Booger Hollow Gas Station, the business expanded to its current location in 2012. Taking the helm in 2019, Zachary Edmunds and Chris Cuviello have continued the tradition. “I have had a love for BBQ all of my life. From training at one of Georgia’s oldest BBQ restaurants to competing on the Georgia Barbeque Circuit, I have also always loved Blairsville and hoped for a chance to re-locate to the mountains. “ Zachary shared. “Jim’s Smokin’ Que was the perfect opportunity.”

I had the pulled pork sandwich. And the ribs. And their accolades are well-deserved. Boy, do I love good BBQ.

And this brings me to the end of my initial and sophomore experience in Blairsville. Other points of interest in this area include Helton Creek Falls (a super short walk to a set of two waterfalls), Brasstown Bald (the highest peak in Georgia), and I hear from the locals you absolutely must go to Sunrise Grocery for boiled peanuts, if you are a fan. Be sure to check out visitblairsvillega.com for more information and upcoming events, including the Tour of Trees, which happens every year in the month of December.

Until the New Year my friends, I wish you all happy holidays and good fortune to come. And of course, in signing off for this final time in 2022, I leave you with a song lyric, from the aforementioned Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and company:

“Ramble on, and now’s the time, the time is now. To sing my song, I’m going ‘round the world, I gotta find my girl.”

FAITH Gives Back To The Community

have a wonderful time with gifts and stockings. The community lends support to these families by providing special gifts and lots of good food for all to enjoy. Everyone at FAITH would like to say thank you to all of you who do so much for their Shelter families and for supporting FAITH through the year. They all appreciate you!

The holiday season is a special time of the year for families to be together for fun, laughter, good food and fellowship. At the present time there are families who are living in the FAITH shelter who will not have the same experience of a family Christmas as most of us will. The good people at FAITH try to make sure that all of their shelter families also have a wonderful Christmas and get to experience the joys of the season. The shelter is a safe place for these families where they can relax and be with each other. Santa comes to the shelter, even though there is no chimney, and the children

NAPA South Meets Rabun North

Did you know Clayton has its very own wine bar in downtown? Located just off Main Street, Napa South has opened its door as of September 1. Their menu features wine from the Napa/Sonoma area and the South along with charcuterie, fresh-made dips, seasonal butter boards, beer, and sparkling wine cocktails.

Georgia girl Tracey Sutton has been honing her skills in northern California for years and has brought back her love and knowledge of wine right here to Rabun County. “I love wine from all regions but began my wine journey in Napa. It only made sense to open a wine bar with wines from the South as well as the Napa/Sonoma regions. There are some delicious wines made here in North Georgia, and I love to share my finds with my customers.” Napa South is open every day except Wednesdays from 3pm-8pm, with live music every Tuesday and some Saturdays. Come join us downtown at 118 Oak Crescent Circle – across the street and up the alley from the post office. Check out www.napasouth.wine for menus, exclusive wine club membership packages, event booking, and more information.

FAITH also wants to give back to the community so they have teamed up with Kirk Knous to provide a special holiday event. The event is “A Christmas Village for Hope and Healing”. It is a dazzling display of charming holiday villages that will delight children and adults of all ages. Mr. Knous has assembled what is believed to be the largest collection of miniature Christmas houses and holiday scenes in the State of Georgia. We invite you to come tour the exhibit on December 9, 10, 16, 17 from 6pm to 8pm. The location is The Kirk Knous Building at 90 Tiger Connector, just up the hill from Goats on the Roof. Santa has indicated he may even be there on some of the nights and you might even see the Grinch!

Taylor & Associates Insurance Great Options, Personal Relationships

Dallas Taylor of Taylor & Associates Insurance loves working with the people of Rabun County. Most of the time that involves helping folks with their home, auto or commercial insurance. Other times it means fielding a call in his role as Rabun County’s Director for Habersham EMC. What’s for certain is that a lot gets done at his downtown Clayton insurance office.

“2022 has been our biggest year yet and after partnering with Legacy Risk Solutions earlier this year there’s no excuse for stopping here,” Taylor says. “I want to balance exceptional insurance service with outstanding growth, and we’re doing just that. Eight years in business has flown by and I want to thank the customers more than anything.” he says.

Dallas and his team will assess your insurance needs and find the best coverage for the best price. “For those customers who want to do business remotely we make it easy with our technology. But people know they can come see me and talk. It’s a relationship,” Taylor says. “My folks have been in Rabun County since the mid-1800s at least. I’m lucky to get to live and work here at home. I don’t forget that,” he says.

Taylor & Associates is conveniently located at 151 North Main Street in Clayton, Geor gia just a few doors down from the Clayton Post Office. For information or to schedule an appointment you may call 706-960-2520 or e-mail dtaylor@ta-ins.com or visit their website www.taylorandassociatesins.com. You’ll be glad you did.

Ten Roof with Countryside Creations

Amanda Carver Watts is a hard-worker, she is deter mined, smart and creative. Three years ago when I heard she was the new owner of Ten Roof in Clayton I was sure she would make it better than ever and she did. She added Countryside Creations to the business and has since continued to expand the offerings of her busi ness. You can find great bargains on quality consign ments but if you are looking for a custom personalized gift for anyone this season, this is where you can get it. From clothing, metal and wood, she can personalize it with embroidery, vinyl, direct printing or engraving.

A personalized gift is one that the recipient will treasure for many years to come. Make a list and talk to Amanda and her staff about any idea you have and they’ll make it a reality. Looking for Wildcat gear or gifts? You’ll find them at Ten Roof with Countryside Creations! This is your custom design store! They are located at 128 Du vall Street, Clayton, Georgia. You can call with questions 706 960-9177, visit their website www.countrysidecre ations-ga.square.site. Follow them on Facebook (@ tenroofclothing), TikTok (@countrysidecreations20) and Instagram (@thetenroof) to see all the amazing things they create.

Give a One-of-a-Kind Gift for Everyone on Your List!

A Chattooga Belle Wedding

Chattooga Belle Farm is a 198-acre working farm, distillery, and event barn located in beautiful Long Creek, South Caro lina. During the 1960s, Long Creek was the largest apple produc ing area east of the Mississippi River, and today remains a hid den gem at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is their endless mountain view and open-air barn that makes Chattooga Belle Farm such a great destination for your next big event, and especially for your wedding

There is no substitute for that undeniable feeling when you find that perfect place – the venue of your dreams – and so many have

found exactly that in the 270-de gree views of mountain lines, roll ing hills, vineyards, orchards, and berry patches of Chattooga Belle Farm. Just walking onto the prop erty, you can feel the possibilities open up like the mountainous scenery before you.

Making sure your event goes smoothly is one of the most pressing things on any bride or event planner’s mind. With this thought process at the forefront, Chattooga Belle Farm will put a lot of time and effort into plan ning your wedding, down to the very last, carefully chosen detail. That’s why an event manager from our staff is always by your side and working with your vendors to ensure everything goes exactly as planned.

With multiple all-inclusive packages available, you have options to accommodate both more intimate and larger-scale ceremonies and receptions. So regardless of size, let Chattooga Belle Farm become the canvas upon which your vision comes to life, and the backdrop for some of the best memories of your life. Call them at 864-647-9768 or visit chattoogabellefarm.com.

Landscape Design Co

Voted Best of Georgia Landscape Architects, being in the business as long as they have and completing such a vast array of past projects has also given LDC an experienced edge in hardscaping. Beyond their landscaping abilities , LDC is also your expert choice for creating the perfect patios, pavers, waterfalls and ponds, and lighting and walkways.

Beyond LDC’s advanced repertoire of residential projects, they have also done more commercial landscaping installations than they can count. Whether you are looking for an enhancement to your existing facility or need a bid for brand new construction, LDC has you covered.

Unique to LDC is their signature Bobby Grace Putting Greens. Perfect for the golf enthusiast, you can turn a part of your yard into your very own putting playground! Mark and his team can create a one-of-a-kind green just for you, or replicate your favorite hole from the pro circuit, all constructed with precise undulations and bunkers.

Founded by President and CEO Mark Cohea in 1995 in Buford, Ga, LDC (Landscape Design Co) is today a Lula, Georgia based company offering a multitude of services here in the Southeast. With over 20 years of passionate landscaping and nursery experience, LDC specializes in complex landscape projects including complete design and installation for both commercial and residential properties.

With a vision to be your go-to choice for all of your landscaping/ hardscaping needs, LDC Groups exists to provide general contractors and property owners the best experience in landscape design and installation, done so by utilizing the most innovative equipment, efficient work methods, and leveraging technology in office and onsite. For more info visit them online at ldcgroups.com

Visit the Georgia Mountain Market in Clayton, Georgia

Indoor flea market fun is available all year long at Georgia Mountain Market, located just north of Clayton at 811 US Highway 441. Open from 8 am – 5 pm Friday-Sunday, the Georgia Mountain Market has many unique and hard to find treasures.

Looking for leather goods? Belts, buckles and Biker’s gear? Look for Glenn’s Leather Shop inside the market. If you are an antique lover you’ll love Phillis’ furniture, glassware, collectibles and home décor. Daisy’s has repurposed lamps and home furnishings. You’ll be amazed at her creative lamps. If Jewelry is your passion, you’ll want to look for Jayco Jewelry Specialties. Jewelry artist Feather Jacobs

crafts jewelry and also has a great selection of vintage, modern fashion and sterling silver jewelry. With Christmas right around the corner any of these vendors offer great options. Another vendor that you’ll want to find is Diane Phillips’ USBORNE books and more. Diane can help you choose the perfect book, host a party for you or show you how to fundraise while encouraging children to read.

No visit to the Georgia Mountain Market is complete with out a stop in at L & B Baking Company. The cookies, cakes, cinnamon rolls and more that Pastry Chef Lisa Padgett bakes are excellent! Custom cakes and desserts can be ordered or a treat for your fam ily to go or to enjoy before or after shopping will top off your visit to the market. There are many other vendors inside the market so take some time and look around.

Bon Appétit

Gifts from the Heart and Your Kitchen

By Scarlett Cook

Iknow the last thing you want to tackle this holiday season is pulling out your baking equipment and ending up with a kitchen that looks like the entire production of The Nutcracker was filmed there. But think about it this way, your gifts will be more personal and the receivers will know that you spent time and energy making the treats. When you shop with local merchants to buy containers for your gifts it is a win-win situation. The containers don’t have to be elaborate; simply let your children or grandchildren decorate them with wrapping paper, bows etc. and they will feel part of the season. And most of these can be made ahead. Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2023. God bless each of you and your families.

Toasted Pecans

Makes 4 cups

6 Tablespoons butter

1 Pound shelled pecans

1 Teaspoon salt or garlic salt

Preheat oven to 350°.

In a heavy skillet (8” or 10”) melt butter over low heat. When the foam subsides, remove the pan from the heat, add the pecans and stir until they are well coated. Spread pecans in a single layer on cookie sheet. Toast the nuts 15 – 20 minutes stirring occasionally. Remove the nuts from the oven, add salt and stir gently to coat. Store in a tightly covered container and store at room temperature.

Seasoned Oyster Crackers

Makes 11 – 12 cups

½ Cup vegetable oil

1 Package Hidden Valley Ranch salad mix

3/4 Teaspoon lemon pepper

1/2 Teaspoon dill weed

1/2 Teaspoon garlic salt

Preheat oven to 275°.

Mix all ingredients except crackers in large bowl. Add crackers and place on a cookie sheet in a single layer. Bake 15 – 20 minutes.

When cool store in an airtight container.

Cream Cheese Brownies

10 servings

1 Package yellow cake mix

1 Egg, beaten

1 Stick margarine, melted

1 8-Ounce package cream cheese, at room temperature

2 Eggs, beaten

1 Box powdered sugar

1Teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350°. Grease a 9” x 13” pan. Combine cake mix, 1 egg and margarine. Press mixture in the bottom

Mix cream cheese, 2 eggs, sugar and vanilla; mix well. Spread over prepared crust. Bake 35 – 40 minutes.

Surprise Cookies

Makes 24

Crunchy peanut butter

48 Ritz crackers

1 Bar white chocolate

1 Cup pecans, finely chopped

Spread one cracker with peanut butter – as thin or as thick as you like. Top with another cracker. Set aside. Melt chocolate in a double boiler (or in microwave according to package instructions). Let cool slightly. Dip each sandwich in chocolate turning several times to make sure it is totally covered. Let excess drip off. Place cookie on wax paper lined cookie sheet. Spread with pecans.

The Family Table

By Lorie Thompson

Merry Christmas and Hap py New Year! The holi day season is here! For most families, December sees a holiday gathering every weekend. In our family, we kick off the month with Baby Girl's birthday, and I will host the family to celebrate. The following weekend we will join our McKay family for the annual Christmas Feast and Celebration. Scattered through the month will be an office party, a girlfriend's gathering, a Christmas ornament exchange, family gatherings, and then it is New Years! Whew! My waistline just expanded, and my wallet is empty, just contemplat ing all of it.

I will cook a lot this month and often return to my tried and true recipes when in a rush. I learned to cook in the 70s and 80s. The food, just like the music from this period in time, can't be beaten! Listen to some CCR, ARS, or BTO while you make this dish. It is guaranteed to make your time in the kitchen a pleasure!

Keep this recipe for the best Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip you have ever eaten circa 1980!

1 c. grated Parmesan 1 large garlic clove

1 - 10 oz. Pkg. frozen spinach, thawed & squeezed dry 12 oz. marinated artichoke hearts, drained & patted dry (I used two jars of Artichoke Hearts because I like them. Suit yourself and the size of your dish.)

1 – 6 ½ oz. garlic & herb garlic & cheese spread such as Allouette or Boursin 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup Mayonaise 1 cup Sour Cream

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes to taste Tortilla chips, sour cream, salsa, and candied Jalapenos

Preheat oven to 375°.

Place Parmesan cheese in the food processor with a metal blade, drop in the garlic and 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes, and pulse for 2-3 seconds. I use some aged parmesan and some of the grated green can. I like the mix of the two flavors.

Add sour cream, mayo, and cheese spread. Pulse for 2-3 seconds. Remove the mixture to an oven-proof bowl.

I hope that during this busy season, you will take the time to reflect and share with your family the love of God in giving his son, Jesus Christ, to become flesh to redeem us. He came to Earth for me! And for you! Merry Christmas!

Thoroughly drain the thawed spinach, squeezing all excess moisture out of it. Add the spin ach to the mixture and gently stir it in. Thoroughly drain the marinated Artichoke Hearts and roughly chop them, leaving nice-sized pieces. Add the artichoke hearts and the mozzarella to the bowl and fold them in. Pour into an oven-proof baking dish and cover the top with more Parmesan and Mozzarella. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Serve hot with tortilla chips, sour cream, candied jalapenos & salsa.

This will be the hit of the party!

Lorie Thompson is a REALTOR at Poss Realty in Clayton, Georgia. Her expertise in her industry is second only to her culinary talents. Lorie is a dynamo in the kitchen. Honestly if she prepares it, it will likely be the best you’ve ever had! Lorie and her husband, Anthony (Peanut), make their home in the Persimmon Community. She is the proud mother of Joe Thompson and Kendall Thompson.

Baked Spinach and Artichoke Dip

A Taste of the Mountains

Adventure Out Spoonauger Falls and Ellicott Rock

By Peter McIntosh

On this adventure we’re going to visit Spoonauger Falls, a small but charming cascade, followed by an easy to moderate hike to Ellicott Rock, a regional landmark that denotes the junction of the Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina state lines and the centerpiece of the Ellicott Rock Wilderness. Keep in mind that Ellicott Rock itself is no grand monument, so this hike is about a pleasant trip alongside a beautiful river. We begin our hike (about 3.2 miles each way) at the trailhead on the left side of Burrells Ford Road, 100 yards east from where the road crosses the Chattooga River. The trail descends gently for less than a quarter mile before coming to a small stream crossing. Immediately after the stream you’ll see a sign on your right for the 200 yard side trail, up a few switchbacks to Spoonauger Falls. It’s nothing spectacular as waterfalls go but well worth the short side trip. Any waterfall is a good waterfall in my opinion.

Back on the main trail you’ll come to a sign saying “Ellicott Rock” and “Walhalla Fish Hatchery” and soon after, the trail makes its way to within view and earshot of the Chattooga River. There will be numerous primitive campsites with fire rings as this portion of the river as it is a favorite destination for trout fishermen and car campers. There are countless side trails leading to openings along the river so do give yourself plenty of time for some nice riverside lollygagging. About one mile in, the trail turns to the right and leaves the river temporarily. Soon enough you’ll come to what just may be the nicest trail bridge anywhere. It spans the east fork of the Chattooga River

Peter McIntosh is an accomplished professional photographer. His photography is displayed in collections across the country. His passion for nature and the outdoors is what fuels his column. His work is available as fine art prints. Peter offers one on one and small group instruction on camera operation and photography. To see more of Peter’s photos, or if you have a question or comment, visit Peter’s website: www.mcintoshmountains.com

and is referred to by some as the “$40,000 Dollar Bridge.” I doubt you could build a bridge this nice for that price today. After crossing the bridge and ascending some steps you’re soon back paralleling the Chattooga. As you hike along, you’ll notice that at times the river is energetically coursing between boulders and over rocky shoals and at other times meandering slowly with no sense of urgency whatsoever. The reflections in the still waters can be mesmerizing, especially in the fall when the bright autumn leaves give the river a fiery glow. The trail gets a little bit tougher from this point but it’s still not too difficult. Take your time, be careful and enjoy the hike. About a half a mile up from the bridge you’ll reach Bad Creek and another stream crossing. When water levels are low, this creek is easy to traverse via stepping stones. If water levels are high, getting from one side to the other may involve wading. A better choice might be just to turn back at this point. Continuing on, you’ll finally come to a small yellow sign pointing down to Ellicott Rock. This rock is named for Andrew Ellicott, a surveyor commissioned in by the Georgia governor to determine the state boundaries. He completed his survey in 1811 by chiseling an “N” and a “G” on a rock on the east side of the Chattooga. Ten feet downstream is Commissioner’s Rock, inscribed by another set of surveyors in 1813. It reads “LAT 35, AD 1813, NC/SC” To see either of these rocks, you’ll need to scramble down the riverbank and get wet in the process. If this is your choice, it wasn’t mine, please remember to be extremely careful, the Chattooga River can be dangerous at any water level. Happy hiking.

Relax my friends, have no fear, here’s my poem for the end of the year: A nice little cascade and a riverside stroll, Some time in nature to restore your soul. Myriad beauty spots where the river comes into view, A great way to say “adieu twenty-two.”

Getting there: From US 441 and Warwoman Road. Follow Warwoman Rd. until it dead ends into Hwy 28. Turn right and go 2 miles to Burrells Ford Road on left. Stay on Burrells Ford Road (a well maintained Forest Service Road) until you cross the Chattooga River. The Ellicott Rock trailhead is just up from the bridge on the left.

If you want to see more of Peter’s photos or if you have a question or comment, visit: www.mcintoshmountains. com

Top 10 Bucket List of Things You Must Do in Rabun County

Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or are just up for a visit, there are things to do in Rabun County that everyone should try at least once, to really appreciate what an amazing place this is...

1. Take a thrilling whitewater rafting trip down the Wild & Scenic Chattooga River.

Take the ride of your life down the “Wild & Scenic” Chattooga River, one of the most beautiful mountain rivers in the South. Class 2 through 5 rapids offer thrills for any level, beginners through advanced.

2. Ride horseback through a mountain stream. If you prefer a milder adventure, then visit the Dillard House Stables. This ride takes you deep into mountain pastures and then down the middle of the Little Tennessee River for an exciting in water riding experience.

3. Go forest bathing and hike to a stunning waterfall. With more than 34 waterfalls and the hikes to reach them, ranging from easy to challenging, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the area’s lush forests. Most hikes end with the majesty of clear mountain water cascading dramatically over rocks and outcroppings.

4. Tour and taste at a mountain top winery or craft distillery. Rabun County’s rich mountain soil and pure water are the perfect combination to produce fabulous wines and spirits. With four wineries and two distilleries, you can sample award-winning beverages while enjoying spectacular views and small-town charm.

5. Learn how to land a beauty with a guided fishing tour. Rabun County offers world-class fishing for both seasoned and beginner casters. With a number of highly skilled fishing guides angling in our many lakes, streams and rivers, even the novice is sure to bring home a trophy!

6. Hunt for treasure in our many antique shops, art galleries and markets. You won’t find mega-malls in Rabun County. What you will find is one-of-a-kind shops filled with lots of character and personality. You never know what you’ll find at the locally owned boutiques, galleries and markets—but whatever it is, you probably won’t find it anywhere else.

7. Climb the Tallulah Gorge. As one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi, the Tallulah Gorge is just begging to be explored. Expert climbers can scale its sheer quartzite walls with special permits or casual visitors can test their endurance on the 1,000-plus Hurricane Falls stairs, which take you down to the gorge floor and back up the other side for views that are more breathtaking than the climb!

8. Enjoy a true Farm-to-Table fine dining experience. As Georgia’s Farm-to-Table Capital, Rabun County boasts many exceptional chefs and restaurants that transform just-picked, locally grown products into culinary delights. You don’t have to travel to a big city for excellent cuisine.

9. Stay in fun, historic or unique accommodations. In Rabun County, where you stay can be a big part of the fun. Take your pick from accommodations of all sorts… campgrounds, upscale resorts, historic

Hurricane Falls Stairs at Tallulah Gorge State Park

Edible Plant Foraging with Wildcraft Kitchen

Mountain top views and wines at Terra Incognita Vineyard

B&Bs and eclectic cabins surrounded by woods and streams. From rustic to elegant, there’s a place for everyone.

10. Step outside the box and reconnect with your roots. Disconnect from your norm and try some grass roots experiences. Forage the forest for edible plants with Wildcraft Kitchen, learn how to build an indigenous musical instrument at Archaic Roots or take a class in spinning, weaving or even soap making at the Foxfire Museum. Whatever you try, your horizons are sure to expand!

If you would like more information on any of these adventures, stop by our wonderful Welcome Center. We’d be happy to help get you hooked up with the many great experiences you can have in Rabun County!

Forest Bathing

White Water Rafting at Southeastern Expeditions

Small-Town Charm with Unique Shops

Clayton Downtown

Loneliness for Christmas?

By Cliff Lewis, Associate Pastor of Worship and Music, Clayton Baptist Church

We are a lonely culture.

As our world has become increasingly “connected” through advances like the internet, satellite technology, social media, Zoom meetings, etc., our younger generations are desperate for real relationships. The suicide rate in America has steadily increased since the year 2000, illicit drug use has been surging over the last few years, and according to the latest data, almost half of the Gen Z generation (born from 1997-2012) have been diagnosed with at least one mental illness. Almost HALF! What in the world is happening when 1 out of every 2 people you meet ages 10-25 is mentally ill?

The simplest and most obvious answer to why we see so many in America who are drug-addicted and despairing to the point of suicide, is that people feel lonely and purposeless. These massive societal problems are to be expected when people don’t know who they are and why they are here. Until relatively recently the vast majority of Americans believed that they were created by God. That one belief answers so many identity-related questions. If there is a God who created you, then there is a reason He created you. That great question about reason was once summed up by asking, “Who am I, and why am I here?” The problem for many in our culture today is that the so-called “scientific” answer our world now gives to those questions are that humans are just clumps of cells that occurred by random series of events that have no real design or purpose. The logical response to that type of thinking is to despair and to live for the moment and let individual desires lead you wherever you want to go.

The real answer to the question of reason and purpose is found in God’s Word. Isaiah 43:7 says, “Everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for My glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made.” We were created by God and for His glory! What an incredible truth. God made every human. He is the creator, and He doesn’t do anything without a reason for doing it. This verse tells us why he created us, namely, for His glory.

What does it mean to be created for God’s glory? From the very beginning God created us to be with Him and to enjoy Him. In fact, in the first chapter of Genesis God even says that He created us like Him. Not exactly like Him, but in His image. Genesis 1:27-28 says, “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, ‘Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth, and subdue it; and rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.’”

This passage shows that God made us for relationship with Him and with each other. It also tells us that we were made to care for and rule over the earth.

Even though God created us to be with Him and to have relationship with each other, we rejected that design. Genesis goes on to describe how Adam and Eve listened to the lie that God was withholding something better from them. They believed that a specific bit of knowledge was better than the perfect presence of their Creator. They chose the pride of becoming godlike over a perfect relationship with the only, Holy God. That is the greatest tragedy in human history and the epitome of sin itself. God has continually expressed His desire and design for humanity by giving us Himself. After Adam and Eve were removed from the Garden and God’s perfect presence, God began the process of revealing His perfect plan throughout the generations. He told Noah of His plan to save Noah and his family and restore the relationship with him. Later, God led the Israelites with His fiery presence and gave His commandments and showed Himself to Moses. After that, God would give His glory to the people through His presence in the Tabernacle and Temple. Then, a little more than 2,000 years ago, God sent His only Son, Jesus, to be present on earth. His name would be called Immanuel, which means, “God with us.” And even though so many rejected, and ultimately, killed Jesus, God raised Him from the dead.

The plan and design for humanity is not finished. God will one day finally remove sin and death, and anyone who has trusted in Christ for their salvation and reconciliation with God will be with Him forever. Revelation 21:2-3 tells us of that ultimate future awaiting His children, “And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them.’”

Surrounded by family and friends at Christmas is wonderful, but don’t let Christmas come and go this year without submitting to your Creator and rejoicing in His design for you. He wants you to be with Him forever...

Cliff Lewis is the Associate Pastor of Worship & Music at Clayton Baptist Church, located at 87 South Church Street in Clayton, Georgia. He leads God-centered music each week, preaches on occasion and is an all-around great guy. Cliff loves his wife and kids, is a fan of the Crimson Tide and Narnia is his favorite movie.

De-Stress This Holiday

By Tracy McCoy

Awise doctor once told me, If I could fix stress, all I’d have left to treat is strep throat. Stress is a killer and it is part of everyday life. While “mindfulness” is often overused, it is one of the keys to de-stressing your life. Putting the past behind you and letting tomorrow take care of itself (Biblical) means all that you have control over is today, and isn’t that enough? Planning is also a way to avoid stress but the term “progress over perfection” comes to mind. Make plans but if there is a glitch don’t let it ruin your day. Recently I heard a young lady, who is a barber, talking about cancellations in her schedule. She fretted over the money she lost when a client cancelled, the way it messed up her day. She said that she has learned that “God is in the cancellations”. Sometimes plans change and what comes next is for our best or for our better! Learning to roll with the changes (REO Speedwagon) might be a huge de-stressor. So I began searching for some tips to share with you (mostly for my own sanity) on how to take unnecessary stress out of what is supposed to be a very happy time of the year. Celebrations are supposed to be a joyful time, not make you want to pull your hair out. Unnecessary stress, that is a weird way to say it. Isn’t all stress unnecessary? Simply put, no. Stress is a trigger for our fight and flight response. It spurs us to better performance and cognitive abilities, keeps us alert and “on top of our game”. According to UC Berkley, “In studies on rats, they found that significant, but brief stressful events caused stem cells in their brains to proliferate into new nerve cells that, when mature two weeks later, improved the rats’ mental performance.” On the flip-side, chronic stress can affect our memory, heart, digestion, increase the risk of obesity and depression. Stress is sometimes unavoidable, but some of it is avoidable and that makes it unnecessary!

A few good strategies for dealing with holiday stress are to set boundaries. Don’t be afraid to decline an invitation that you know could result in added stress rather than adding to the enjoyment of your Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. No is a complete sentence, and no further explanations are necessary. Instead of running from one house to another and eating two huge meals in one day, choose to be at one this year and the other the next. Otherwise you are going to be stressed out and unbuttoning your britches on the way home.

Making your gift list early and shopping local, small town, family

owned businesses will help you avoid large crowds and hectic shopping. Many find picking up gifts throughout the year means that they are done before the turkey is finished on Thanksgiving. The tree goes up and gifts go under it. Then they are free to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season without the added stress of trying to find that perfect gift with thousands of others.

Gift certificates make great gifts and even more special are handmade gifts. This is going to require that you start early so you are not trying to knit 10 scarves on December 10th. I would rather receive a thoughtful homemade item over almost any other. Maybe you aren’t crafty and don’t have a creative bone in your body. Well there are many local artists who are and their works make excellent options especially for that friend or family member who has everything!

Don’t overcommit. You don’t have to take the entire meal on yourself, delegate and realize that most people love to contribute to the holiday meal. It is a great way to let others help and enjoy their recipes too. Planning your meal and reaching out early to others who may bring a dish makes it easier on all. You also don’t need so much food that you have to throw it away or come up with creative ideas for leftover turkey or ham. IF you have a lot of leftovers remember that there are way too many people who will have nothing to eat and look for ways to share your bounty.

Cleaning your house from top to bottom is not necessary and 99% of the people that are coming will be so happy to see you and be among your guests. Don’t worry that someone is going to see the dust on the top of the entertainment center. I guarantee they are not going to notice and if someone does and mentions it, don’t invite them next year. Everything does not need to be perfect, to try to achieve that will definitely add to your stress. Also when the meal is over, take them up on their offer to help you clear the table and take care of the dishes. Being a great hostess does not include spending the rest of the night washing dishes and cleaning up. Above all else, take care of yourself throughout the season. Find time to relax, refresh and renew, whatever that looks like for you. Maybe a massage or spa day before or after the big event. You can not pour from an empty cup, so remember SELF CARE! Keep the focus on the real reason we are celebrating and share the story of Jesus with your family.

We wish you a Merry and Stress-free Christmas!

It is the most wonderful time of the year!

Dr. Sue Aery Aery Chiropractic & Acupuncture

Healthy and Well Sticky Joints

Do you ever hear noise in your shoulder, knee, hip, ankle, neck, etc.? Sometimes it’s a squeak, click, crackle, snap, and sometimes it may get stuck or hung up for a second.

There are so many joints in the body, in different forms, with different components. They are all designed to “articlulate”, meaning that they move freely against a surface for a very specific purpose or motion. Let’s take the knee joint, which is very specific in its function. The knee joint joins the upper leg, or femur, with the lower leg, or tibia, and helps us move while walking. There are many different levers and pulleys in order to control the force, distance and direction of the person walking or running. These components are driven by muscles, which are controlled by the nervous system and the brain at the helm, much like a computer. Now, let’s get back to the joint- each bone is covered by a layer of cartilage called a meniscus. When we are young, the meniscus is very supple and smooth, which makes for a comfortable movement where the bones glide over one another with ease. The knee joint is therefor mobile and quick in its movement, with nothing sticky!

As we age over time, whether we have experienced an injury or not, the meniscus can wear down, becoming rough and less mobile. Now, we can begin to hear sounds when we move, making a creaky noise each time we take a step. The meniscus becomes less lubricated with healthy cells, good blood flow and less space between the bones. This breakdown can then lead to arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis and other forms and causes of pain. The ”squeaky” part is a damaged articulation and may be in need of some help. Some of the natural approaches include acupuncture, TRT, massage, therapeutic ultrasound, physical therapy, etc. Some of the medical approaches involve more invasive procedures, including injections, arthroscopic surgeries and prosthetic replacements.

Remember, long before any of these advanced procedures, listen to your joints! If they are squeaky, make sure that you seek advice from your chiropractor, so that you can take steps to reduce your risk of major surgery!

Dr. Sue Aery is the owner of Aery Chiropractic in Highlands, North Carolina and Elevation Chiropractic & Wellness in Clayton, Georgia. Hours and availability are posted on the website, - www. aerychiropractic.com or by calling 828-200-4476.

“Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Christmas every day.”

- Helen Steiner Rice

By Jaime Smoot Speed

Healthy and Well Making Christmas Safe for Pets

The winter holidays are a fantastic time of year for people and pets! I wanted to talk about some Christmas traditions to enjoy with your pets and how to keep them safe doing so!

Christmas tree decorating is definitely at the top of the list, especially for cats! Cats love to play in the paper we wrap ornaments in or follow the flashing lights in the trees. We do recommend staying away from loose tinsel and trying to discourage your pets from climbing the tree. Some ways to redirect their attention are motorized toys or feeding puzzles. Also consider decorating the tree with unbreakable ornaments and using an anchor to tie the top of the tree to avoid tipping.

Next is visiting SantaPaws! It's a great opportunity to get a cute picture of your pet and oftentimes SantaPaws pictures are done to raise money for charities. And don’t forget to include these pet pictures in your holiday cards!

Walking in the winter is also a great experience. They don’t get overheated as easily and some pet’s fur coats are meant for the winter! Pets also love snow if you're lucky to live in an area that has it! Just protect your pet with warm clothing, make sure you dry them thor oughly, and if they are going to be in the snow for longer periods of time, make sure you get them snow booties!

If cooking treats is part of your normal traditions, don’t forget your pets! There are lots of dog and cat friendly recipes you can find online, and there are often pet-centered treat molds at your local pet stores.

Finally, most pets enjoy the wrapping and unwrapping of presents! Just make sure they are supervised and do not ingest the wrapping material. Consider getting them their own stocking too! They love the attention they get when treats come out of the stocking!

And most important of all, do not forget your local rescues. Oftentimes they do not have full staff over the holidays, so bring a friend and volunteer to walk dogs or clean cages to give back to the community and our furry friends.

Get your pet ready for the holidays at your local pet store Clayton Claws & Paws!

Jaime Smoot Speed was born in West Virginia, went to James Madison University with a BS in molecular biology, then worked at Johns Hopkins doing research until attending UGA for Vet School. She graduated 2010 and moved to Clayton with her husband who is a native five years ago. She works part time at Rabun Animal Hospital. She opened Claws & Paws in December 2020. You can reach Claws & Paws at 706-212-7322 or visit their website: claytonpawsandclaws.com or on facebook and instagram: @claytonclawsandpaws

A Christmas Serenade

Kami Ahrens

In A Foxfire Christmas: Appalachian Memories and Traditions, you can learn about different crafts, recipes, traditions, and more that made up holiday celebrations in this region of the mountains. One such tradition was serenading—and not the romantic singing you might be thinking of! In the mountains, serenading was a way for kids to have fun during the holidays. They would sneak up to a home after dark and make a ruckus, and would only stop when they were invited inside for a warm drink or sweet treat.

Lawton Brooks remembers of serenading: “All the noise we made for Christmas and serenadin’ people and hootin’, we done it with a shotgun. We’d get shotgun shells, fifty cents a box. And we’d get out there and shoot them things, serenadin’ people. There’d be about 25 or 30 of us, and they’d take us in and have something for us to eat and sometimes give us a Christmas present or somethin’ or another. We’d go on to another. We’d have to go all night nearly. [Serenading was] just gettin’ out and going around—slip up to the house and they don’t know nothing about it and you just come up shooting, ringing bells, and things. Just going around the house making the durndest noise you ever seen.”

Another community member interviewed by Foxfire, Burma Patterson, recalled that: “We went Christmas Eve night, serenading. That was the most fun. I would look forward to that every year. And us girls, we’d take the cowbells off of the cows. And the boys would take real shotguns. They didn’t have firecrackers. They’d take shotguns, you know, to shoot all around the house. You know, everywhere we went, they treated us. They was real good to get up and open the door. They was afraid we’d do somethin’ to ‘em if they didn’t. But they’d get up and you know they served us every place we went.

You was real quiet, and everybody walked in, you didn’t go in a car, no way, you walked. And we walked in a neighborhood–we was real quiet–we’d wait til we’d get just right to the house, then go to shooting and running around the house, just a-running around the house and ringing the bells and a-shooting and a-screaming to the top of our voice! And it would be dark. After awhile–we wouldn’t be running around there long ‘til we’d see ‘em strike a match and light that lamp, open the door and say, “Y’all come in.” Then we’d quit shooting, quit ringing our bell, and they would have their cake out in little pieces for us, or an apple for every one, or an orange. Some of ‘em would have somethin’ to drink. We would be loaded. Kind of like trick-or-treating. Then we’d get through serenading, go back down the road, and…we’d build a big bonfire, and tell tales, and play Pleased or Displeased til midnight.”

Experience a mountain Christmas this December at the Foxfire Museum, with special demonstrations and activities on Saturday, December 10th. Learn more at www.foxfire.org/events

John V. Arrendale

Seminoles, Mount Rushmore East,

and Black Rock Mountain State Park

By Dick Cinquina

There could have been a settlement of Seminole Indians atop Black Rock Mountain as a tourist attraction. There also could have been a bust of Franklin Roosevelt gazing down over Rabun County from the heights of the 3,640 foot mountain. Instead of these, the county became home to the highest state park in Georgia, Black Rock Mountain State Park, due largely to the tireless efforts of John V. Arrendale.

Arrendale was born in 1879 in Tiger. A member of one of the largest landowning families in Rabun, he was one of the first men from the county to receive a college degree (University of Georgia School of Agriculture in 1905). During his senior year, Arrendale was assigned to write a thesis on what he intended to do after graduating. He wrote that he would return to Rabun County and work to improve the quality of life for mountain people. And so he did.

Introduced New Crops to Area

As the county’s first Georgia Farm Agent, Arrendale introduced a variety of new crops to the area, including grapes and blueberries, while encouraging

the commercialization of apples. He was instrumental in establishing the Blue Ridge Soil and Water Conservation District. He also helped establish the fish hatchery on Lake Burton near Moccasin Creek and pushed for the development of the poultry industry in northeast Georgia. Arrendale served as the Rabun County Surveyor for several decades. During his tenure, he advocated for improved roads and helped secure the right-of-way for power lines bringing electricity to rural areas of the county. However, his greatest accomplishment was the formation of a park on Black Rock Mountain.

As early as 1930, investors were interested in developing Black Rock Mountain. The Clayton Tribune reported in its October 9 edition of that year that “capitalists” from Florida wanted to develop a park atop the mountain, complete with an encampment of Seminole Indians to be imported from the Sunshine State. Their plan included the construction of lodges, lakes, a golf course and a “revolving beacon that could be seen for 200 miles.” Nothing came of this scheme. Rabun County remained Seminole-free.

Mount Rushmore East

Starting in 1934, Arrendale began acquiring land on Black Rock with the idea of creating another Mount Rushmore. He planned to have an enormous bust of President Roosevelt carved into the side of the mountain. After being dissuaded from this curious plan, Arrendale shifted gears and instead intended to preserve Black Rock in its natural state as a park to promote Rabun County tourism. Toward this end in 1938, he deeded his 70 acres on the mountain to the county, which then deeded it to the state in 1939.

Dick Cinquina holds graduate degrees in history and journalism, making his work for the Rabun County Historical Society a natural fit for his interests. He is the retired president of Equity Market Partners, a national financial consulting firm he founded in 1981. In addition to writing monthly articles for the Georgia Mountain Laurel, Dick helped produce the Society’s new web site and is involved with the renovation of the group’s museum. After vacationing in this area for many years, he and his wife Anne moved to Rabun County in 2018 form Amelia Island, Florida.

The view from the Black Rock overlook to Clayton in the 1950s

Arrendale was unflagging in his effort to establish a park. He made countless pitches to civic clubs and local politicians in addition to lobbying the Georgia legislature. However, nothing came of his work over the ensuing decade, due partly to the more pressing business of World War II.

Georgia’s Governor Provided Needed Help

Then lightning struck in 1951. During a visit to Rabun County, Governor Herman Talmadge was taken to the top of Black Rock Mountain by way of a perilous, unpaved road. Captivated by the commanding 80-mile view, the governor endorsed Arrendale’s vision for a park that would stimulate tourism. Talmadge authorized the Georgia Highway Department to replace the unpaved road up the mountain with a safer, paved road.

The paving of this access road, together with the acquisition of additional land totaling 1,000 acres, led to the establishment of Black Rock Mountain State Park in 1952. The official dedication was held on September 24, 1953. Attending the event were Governor Talmadge and about 1,500 people, who were shuttled to the mountaintop in school buses. No one went hungry at the event. The crowd was served sixty hams, 100 gallons of Brunswick stew (most likely without squirrel or other local delicacies) and 1,000 loaves of bread. The park did, indeed, prove to be a significant tourist attraction. Over 60,000 people visited Black Rock Mountain State Park in 1964. It has remained a tourist destination ever since.

Four States Visible from Black Rock Mountain

Located astride the Eastern Continental Divide, the park provides spectacular vistas of the southern Appalachians. On a clear day, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and, of course, Georgia are visible from the mountaintop. In addition to Black Rock Mountain itself, the park encompasses four other peaks over 3,000 feet in elevation.

John V. Arrendale, the parks first and foremost proponent, died in 1972 at the age of 93. At his funeral, Rev. L.B. Gibbs commemorated Arrendale by stating: “Some people looked at him as a dreamer, a visionary, but it would be helpful and inspiring to look at how many of his dreams and visions became realities, which have benefitted many people.”

Learn more about our history by becoming a member of the Rabun County Historical Society. Membership and complete information about the Society’s museum are available at www.rabunhistory. org. The newly renovated museum at 81 N. Church St. in downtown Clayton, which houses the Southeast’s largest collection of Tallulah Falls Railroad artifacts, is open Thursday-Saturday from 11 to 3. The Society is a not-for-profit organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, making membership dues and donations tax deductible. Visit us on Facebook and Instagram.

John V. Arrendale 1878-1972 The newly graded Black Rock Mountain Road in 1931

By Roger Glenn

Looking Back Veteran Spotlight

Mike Koskie was born in Aurora, Illinois in 1946 to a Hungarian father and Romanian mother. It was a time when the mem ory of World War II was very much fresh on the minds of all Americans. The ‘peace dividend’ didn’t last as long as we hoped with the Korean War starting in the 1950s and then, of course, Vietnam in the 60s. But before he went off to war, his life was visited by a tragic accident at the paper mill where his father worked. A horrific accident crushed his father’s legs and left him in a wheelchair for the remainder of his life. But Uncle Sam needed soldiers for Vietnam, and so Mike had to leave his badly injured father and a 10-year old brother- be ginning with his journey to Fort Polk, Louisiana for basic training in the United States Army. He wasn’t used to the warm weather, but it helped prepare him for the climate in Southeast Asia. He continued his training at Fort Ord, California and then on to Vietnam via Tokyo, Japan. He spent most of his one year tour of duty in Cam Ranh Bay working at an Air Force Hospital and with a Division of White Horse Koreans before being transferred to the South Bay on the South China Sea where he was assigned to the 864th Engineer Battalion which was a construction unit that built roads, bridges, runways and even ammunition depots. He was able to type better than any of his counterparts, and so he was given the job of his Company’s clerk and doubled as his Company Commander’s driver.

Mike arrived in Vietnam on the occasion of his 20th birthday, but as you might imagine there wasn’t any celebration. During his time in Vietnam he was exposed to Agent Orange, and that exposure has resulted in health-related issues that have plagued him since. But his spirit and mind remained ever sharp and he attained the rank of Sergeant before separating from the Inactive Ready Reserve in 1973. He spent his professional career in several different industries, but ultimately retired from General Mills in the early 2000s. By then he was living in Atlanta and had married his ‘lady in red’, whom he met at a social dance while she was wearing a red dress and a live red rose in her hair. Carolyn and he would be married for 33 years, but sadly she passed away from dementia in late 2021. They moved to Persimmon where they built a home in 2006 and like so many, simply fell in love with Rabun County and its breathtaking moun tain landscapes.

If you visit Mike you’ll hear many a story regarding his life, his love for automobiles, and of late his adventures with two German pointers who have lots of energy and are clearly in love with their owner. He has a tremendous recall of dates and interesting stories to go along with each. Like so many, his time in the service was brief, but it created lasting memories and a bond of service that remains strong for a lifetime. He’s become a friend and neighbor in addition to being a fellow veteran, and I’m glad he lives right here with the other good people of Rabun County.

Service Pros

This House is Ready to Welcome You Home

By John Shivers

e have a place in the mountains…” you say casually, in conversation. Just the mere mention of those seven words paints a vivid picture of a touch of paradise, where you can let your hair down and shut out the world. The home at 136 Windy Gap Road outside Clarkesville, Georgia certainly lives up to the preconceived hype. It is, indeed, a home in the mountains. But that’s not all.

“W

Are you looking for a place where you and yours can periodically retreat from the rat race, complete with all the comforts and benefits of home? This house is both your starting point and your stopping place. It’s far enough removed to give you privacy and peace, and close enough to civilization to make things convenient.

This spacious, cottage-style home offers so much of what you’re looking for. It’s in pristine condition, and attractively and comfortably decorated. You can be “at home” instantly. And you have other options. Perhaps you might want to place the home in a vacation rental program. With three nice bedrooms and two baths, an open split floor plan, fully functional kitchen, a loft area as well as vaulted ceilings, and loads of outdoor deck space overlooking the great outdoors, this home could be the poster child for highly-desirable, ideal vacation rentals.

What’s more, the home is sitting on 7.83± heavily wooded acres. There’s plenty of room to build another home or two, and if your family

is large, this is a golden opportunity to create your own compound. Or perhaps circumstances have dovetailed, and this home could be your permanent 365/24/7 place to lay your heads. All you have to do is walk right in, sit right down, daddy let your mind roll on. This home is occupancy ready ASAP. Move in and start getting your mail delivered.

Located just 90 miles north of Atlanta, in the beautiful foothills of the northeast Georgia mountains, this home checks box after box. Unfortunately, it can only go to one buyer, so strike while the opportunity presents itself, and you’ll be able to utter those memorable words: “We have a home in the mountains.” In the Batesville area, specifically, on the beautiful northern-most side of Habersham County, just a couple of minutes from Lake Burton, and the Rabun County line.

Outside, hardy vinyl siding and a composition roof ensure great looks with minimum maintenance and upkeep. Inside, with 1,818± square feet, you’ve got enough space to spread out, but not so much space that you need a housekeeping staff!.

A wall of windows in the great room on the back side of the house, overlooking a gorgeous piece of private, north Georgia real estate, a massive stone-faced fireplace with convenient gas logs, and generous floor space make this room as convenient as it is comfortable and cozy. The kitchen is designed for multiple chefs and helpers, and features an abundance of cabinets, pantry space, and countertop work and prep space. A full complement of appliances rounds out this portion of the house.

The dining area, mere steps away, can accommodate any shape table, and could easily seat a dozen or more hungry family and friends. Hardwood floors run throughout main level. And you’ll never get enough of the four-seasonal views that come with the property, thanks to the large outdoor deck that’s great for entertaining, quiet respite, or remembering once again why you chose this home.

This beautiful, versatile home, GMLS#20082787, is waiting for its new owner. Contact Harry Norman, REALTORS® Luxury Lake and Mountain agent Jennifer Kyle for additional information. You can reach her at (cell) 706-968-2255 or (office) 706-212-0228.

Here’s the Poster Child for “Home, Sweet Home”

by John Shivers

When you’re the folks getting mail at 151 Woods Road off Highway 76 East of Clayton, you’ll enjoy a private, sloping one acre lot, more or less, that fronts on some 200 feet of burbling She Creek waters. There’s an established garden space, the better to grow sweet corn and tomatoes and okra. Not to mention two outbuildings, one with a shed for a riding mower or small tractor, an H to E garden shed, as well as a detached double carport with expansion possibilities accessed by an outside entrance already in place up top.

This is a hard combination to beat, and this is just on the outside. There’s also a chain link fenced yard enclosing a three bedroom, two bath ranch style home that’s anything but cookie cutter inside. While it is a split floor plan with the master suite separated from the other two bedrooms, this isn’t your ordinary three-two floor plan. In fact, the layout is about as custom as the quality of living inside. Plus, there’s a spacious screened porch as well as an open deck with a pergola that allows you to split the difference between indoors and out. The call is yours, but either way you go, you can’t go wrong. The great room in the center of the home with a fireplace not only gives spreading out room for family and friends, it serves as the hub for a lot of good living, and opens both to the screened porch and the deck. Adjacent to the great room there’s a spacious kitchen with beautiful cabinetry including an island and granite countertops with a gas range, refrigerator and dishwasher, a breakfast bar, and dining room. Opening off the kitchen a four-season sunroom offers multiple opportunities for living and relaxation.

This rare find of a family home includes two large bathrooms to serve the three bedrooms. One is part of the master suite and features an oversize glass enclosed shower. There’s also a spacious his/her closet. The second bath offers a tub/shower combination, and both bathrooms have recently been updated.

There’s carpet in the living room and master bedroom. Elsewhere, hardwood floors run throughout the remainder of the house. Both bathrooms have hard surface tile. Numerous ceiling fans, a whole house ceiling fan, an upgraded HVAC system complete with a humidifier, and UV light for both the HVAC and water as well as a water purification system and a tankless on-demand water heater add to this home’s value.

In the partially finished daylight basement with direct access to the outside, you’ll find all the mechanicals, storage, and a finished room that could serve as a hobby and craft room, man cave, home gym, or home office. This home was built in 1968 and has been meticulously maintained and upgraded. The established nature of the yard means the new owner won’t be faced with starting from scratch, but simply improving and enhancing what’s already there. While there are other homes in the area, there’s plenty of spreading out room and a rural setting to boot. How much better can it get? Sit on the rear deck and listen to the music of the creek waters, or amble down through the yard and enjoy those creek waters up close and personal. Go wading… in season, of course! This exceptional property practically screams “Come sit a spell. Take your shoes off. Stay awhile. How much better can an invitation get? This house is waiting for its new owners. Poss Realty Agents Gail and Rodney Hopper and Tiffany English, The Hopper Team, are ready to show you this truly one-of-akind listing, GMLS#20081642. Contact them via cell phone at 706-490-1012 or at the office at 706-782-2121.

Lovin’ the Journey

by Mark Holloway

Christmas is a glorious season. The word ‘glorious’ sounds like an old fashioned word a grandma would say while sipping tea in her parlor room. I’m thankful I had a normal upbringing. Whatever normal means…

Actually, I celebrated Christmas in many different places in the world.

That might not be so normal.

But I had a normal family. A mom and dad, a brother and sister and various dogs, a kudamundi and maybe a turtle. I grew up knowing my grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. Christmas was a festive time. Normal for me was being surrounded by talented women who knew how to cook.

I married young. I was 21. Carol was younger. She was 18. Even as a teenager, I married a woman who was skilled in the kitchen. Her mom Charlotte was German and between my gourmet mom Sylvia and Charlotte, feasts were fabulous.

In Mexico City we lived far away from normal shopping options. So we’d all drive across the boarder into Texas and shop.

My dad bought my brother and me matching bicycles which had steering wheels instead of handle bars. Not a good idea. Helmets weren’t included.

One year my brother prematurely pulled the trigger on his new BB gun trying to shoot an apple off my head. The projectile imbedded itself in a knuckle on my left hand as the apple passed in front of my eye on the way to the top of my six year old head.

Stephen was seven years old. Boys and Christmas BB guns and steering wheeled bicycles. Perfect. Did I mention my dad was a decorated combat veteran officer? He lived on the edge, I reckon. He raised us much the same. I fell face first off the back of a go-cart onto the asphalt street in front of our home at Ft. Benning. I was four. Yep. A neighborhood kid got the cart for Christmas. I wore scabs on my chin, nose and forehead for New Years.

When I was 12, the Holloway Five traversed with our camper from Kansas to Ft. Lewis, Washington. We stopped for Christmas in Aspen Colorado. Somehow my mom hid every single Christmas present in that camper. She was amazing.

I don’t know if my little sister Susan remembers much about Christmases in Mexico or Aspen. But certainly she remembers our Hawaiian and German holiday celebrations.

Christmas in the mountains is the best.

I always carve the turkey. I assist in the sampling of goodies and delicacies before they make it into the general populace. It’s a burden on me but I’m holding up well.

My grandmother passed her Carmel Cake recipe down to me. This famous desert will be making an appearance.

I might wear an apron. I’m hoping my daughter will rename it: The Marky Mark Cake. Wherever family is…is the best. Food is good. But family is best. Memories of holidays past are wonderful and the ones to come are glorious to ponder.

The fragrance of this season, the yumminess of Carol’s kitchen, the José requisite song playing in the stores…it’s all good. Maybe a sleigh ride in the snow one day too.

We have enjoyed two white Christmases since moving here in 2007.

Jesus wasn’t born in December. But it certainly is a good time to celebrate His arrival and offer to redeem me to His Father.

BB guns, bicycles, eggnog, pumpkin pie, a cozy fire in the living room wood stove …these are a few of what captivates my thoughts as winter approaches. José would remind you: Feliz Navidad, y’all. See you on the trail.

Mark and Carol Holloway are outdoor adventurers and love the thrills of rock climbing and hikes to water falls and exploring all of God’s creation. They own PropertyStewards.com and are passionate about deliver ing excellent care to the homes and property of their clients. For More Information call 706-949-5937

A Cowgirl and Her Dreams

by Tracy McCoy

“S

itting with friends I said, ‘If I had a truck I’d go buy stuff for my store tomorrow.’ David Dillard told me, ‘You can borrow the Dillard House farm truck, I even washed it today.’ I said, ‘Really?’ and he said ‘yeah’. So I headed to Atlanta to buy my first load of goods for the store. I had $5,000 and I spent all of it.” Trish Stockton told me when we visited at her dining table for this article. An article that is LONG overdue.

My first thought as I walked through the door of Trish’s home was that it was a reflection of the western store that she recently sold. A half dozen cowboy boots sat in a line by the door. Shades of turquoise, copper and browns welcomed me and it dawned on me that the store had been a reflection of this cowgirl’s life. When interviewing I always like to start at the beginning so Trish Stockton was the youngest daughter of Crosby and Alma (Elliott) Stockton. She is Rabun County born and bred. A 1970 graduate of Rabun County High School. Trish had one sister Carol Ann who was the oldest and a brother Bo who was the baby. Crosby Stockton owned Foodland, the largest grocery store in Clayton during that time. Part owner in that building and owner of many others in Clayton, Mr. Stockton worked hard and taught his daughter to do the same.

After graduation Trish went to North Georgia College in Dahlonega. She wanted a job at Belk. So everyday she went there and waited at the back door. Finally, Mr. Belew (Hank’s dad), the manager of the department store hired her and she was thrilled. He put her to work in the shoe department and she stayed there for a couple years. She then accepted a position at Franklin Discount with Violet Thompson. Later she worked with Adams’ Insurance. She helped Mrs. Adams with her boys, Tom and Sam, driving them where they needed to go. Her dream was to open her own store someday.

In 1976, a building opened up on East Savannah Street (where White Birch Inn is located today) and her dream of owning her own store became a reality. Here is where we pick up with the Dillard House truck and $5,000 worth of shoes and accessories hauled in a truck that may have had a bit of manure here and there. She stocked Sole Place with boots and shoes, purses and wallets and hung her open sign. “I didn’t have fixtures, I set up spools that once held wire, cheese hoops, apple boxes and anything I could find to display shoes on. I decorated with pine cones and I made it work,” she said. Trish was in business!

“My mother sent me to art lessons, piano lessons and singing lessons. When I sang in the choir, they’d say Trish, not quite so loud. I decided I was better suited for riding horses,” she said. Horses, wagon trains, jack asses and the smell of leather have been a part of her life as long as she remembers. In her teens she showed walking horses and saddle breds. Her aunt Louise Keller (RCHS’s Home Economics teacher) made a beautiful blue satin Broquet riding jacket that still hangs in her closet today.

The building at the time had many issues including leaks. “I put a kid’s plastic swimming pool upstairs to catch the water from the roof leak. Every time it rained I had to go up and take a bucket and empty the pool.” Trish got pretty tired of that and vowed if another building opened

up she’d move the store and expand her offerings to include apparel, jewelry, and accessories. In the mid eighties, Dresser’s, a men’s clothing store moved out of the building where the Sole Place is today. She jumped at the chance to move and had friends walk her store up the street. Literally, a half dozen local fellas carried stacks of shoe boxes across the park to Main Street.

Trish and her employees headed west for future buying trips, ordering western wear of all types. What was a shoe store became a source for western wear and it has only grown from there. “I have always sold things I love and good quality things that I would buy for myself,” Trish told me. If you know her, you know she has worked hard her whole life, lives the life that makes her happy and has been a brand all her own. When I asked her how she survived, winters, recessions, hard times and the pandemic and she said, “I’ve been through hell, but I’ve always made it.” She has had loyal customers and many great employees. She mentioned a few not so dependable, a couple with sticky fingers and some that were fantastic! After 46 years in business her dream was to slow down and enjoy life.

Trish had been approached by a few who wanted to buy her store, but she wasn’t ready to sell. One couple who had been coming in and shopping with her for a few years had expressed an interest in buying if she ever took a notion to sell. Pete and Deana Carson had made their life in Athens but loved the mountains. They also loved shopping at Sole Place. They had become friends with Trish eventually learning that the home they had bought was nearby her home, making them neighbors. When she made the decision to retire, she sent a text to Deana and after sitting down with them, a deal was struck. Pete and Deana are the new owners of The Sole Place. Trish plans to slow down, just a little, and enjoy life.

Miss Flashy Jewel, her horse and Leroy the donkey and Flashy’s companion, caught her eye out the window and looking at my watch I realized we’d been visiting for a couple hours. I had another appointment but honestly hated to leave. Trish is as comfortable as your favorite boots, she is honest and down to earth, and I just might ride by on occasion to sit at her table and visit. She did mention a buying trip to Texas with Pete and Deana, I bet she’ll stay busy... doing whatever the hell she wants to do – that’s what retirement is all about.

Stop in to see what Pete and Deana have done with the store. It will remain Sole Place and will continue to provide locals and visitors with quality western wear, outdoor clothing, boots and accessories. You’ll find them at 61 North Main Street in Clayton, Georgia. For information call 706-782-4975.

With All My Heart

By Liz Alley

Dear Jesus,

Well, as I’m sure you know, we’ve made a mess of things down here on earth. There are wars and rumors of wars. The truth is now being touted as “relative.” I heard a kid in Walmart tell his mother to shut up, and do you know what she said back to him? Nothing. Nada. Zip. Have mercy. I have to tell you, Jesus, down here on earth, what is wrong seems right and what is right seems wrong; how you must be shaking your head at all this foolery. Oh, but no, because you told us in Matthew 24 that it would be this way; still, it seems I’m always surprised. And I was wondering if you’ve noticed all the extreme Christmas decorations? I tread carefully here as I love decorating myself. However, I just read about a house in Flor ida that has over 150,000 lighted figurines put out for Christmas. In California, there’s a house that has 250,000 Legos on the tree, and I don’t know; it seems to me that there are way prettier things for a Christmas tree than Legos. Anyway, I’m sorry to tell you that the outrageous decorations down here on earth usually have nothing to do with your birthday. Some places, in fact, even want to ban manger scenes; I get weary just thinking about it.

Then there are the gifts, the spending, and the debt, surrounding Christmas that is out of control. I’m confessing I am guilty of this too, but have you seen how cute my grandchildren are? The thought of their little faces lighting up when I give them just the right thing to ensure they’ll never have a problem in their life is intoxicating! The thought of them saying one day, “It was that perfect gift from my grandmother that boosted my self-esteem enough for me to become President of the United States,” is certainly worth the in vestment, isn’t it? And as far as the gift thing goes, it doesn’t help that situation when Santa, with his pushy agenda, flies around all night with his reindeer, dropping presents everywhere. I mean, he’s a nice guy and all, but I’m pretty sure he’s taking all the credit for Christmas. I hate to even admit what I’ve spent on wrapping paper and glittery bows; as you know, I do have a thing about beautifully wrapped gifts.

As I said, Jesus, we’ve made a mess of your birthday. We buy pres ents for each other instead of giving the real things we need that can’t be bought. We eat too much, drink too much, spend too much, all in the name of Christmas, and what’s worse, we take cred it for the things you’ve done; we act like, I’m sorry to say, spoiled children most of the time. However, all is not lost because, in the rush of holiday shopping, I saw my daughter leave the checkout line and help an elderly man to his car with his groceries. And the other day, the person in front of me at the drive-thru paid for my meal. In the waiting room at the doctor’s office, a young man got up and gave an older man his seat. I saw a woman with a baby on her hip return her shopping cart though it would have been easier to leave it in the parking lot. I watched my granddaughter deliver flowers to my neighbors. Sometimes, on my morning walk, I find painted stones that say, “Have a good day” or “God loves you.” And there is the moment at church when all voices, big and small, sing “Jesus Loves Me,” and truer words were never spoken.

So today, I’m writing to you, Jesus, to say thank you for loving us no matter how badly we mess things up. If we had to wait for your love until we got it all perfect, well then, we’d never have it. Thank you for reminding us to soften our hearts and cool it with all the commercialism this Christmas. Thank you for moving us to be com passionate and forgiving, like you do for us every day. Thank you for reminding us to build each other up and give of ourselves. I’m writing to tell you that this Christmas I’m going to do better. I’m going to maintain hope for this world you were willing to be born into and die for.

With all my heart, I say, “Happy Birthday, Jesus!”

I love you.

Liz Alley – Your Lover of words, wrapper of gifts, love smotherer of grandchildren, easily surprised, hopelessly sentimental, Type A personality kid.

Liz Alley was born and raised in Rabun County in the city of Tiger. She loves to write. She is an interior designer specializing in repurposing the broken, tarnished, chipped, faded, worn and weathered into pieces that are precious again. She is the mother of two daughters and has three grandchildren.

She divides her time between her home in Newnan and Rabun County.