“Abundance is not something we acquire. It is something we tune into.”
— Wayne Dyer
Publisher: Kevin Pyles
Executive Editor: Derina Pyles
Director: Sabrina Lee Baker
Associate Editor: Emma Rose
Creative Director: Sabrina Lee Baker
Graphic Designer: Sabrina Lee Baker
Contributors: Listed on Pages 4-5
Photographers: Sabrina Lee Baker, Natalie Snow & Sybil Slate
Sales: ads@surryliving.com
By Gosh By Josh
Sabrina L. Baker
Sabrina hails from Tobaccoville, NC. Passion for arts led her to photography, where she carved her niche. She balances motherhood and her professional pursuits. At 30 years of age, she embraced Jiu-Jitsu, proving there is no age barrier to personal growth. Sabrina is known for her creativity and commitment, her ability to embrace change, and her perseverance. She writes to inspire others to face challenges head-on and to craft their own paths to success.
Rynn is a writer and designer based in the Yadkin Valley region of North Carolina. She loves to share her ideas for adding simple beauty into hectic lifestyles. More than mere recipes, her mission is to offer practical shortcuts for food preparation along with visual tips for presentation. Rynn began her career in Aiken, SC, as a newspaper reporter writing feature articles about food, living, and the arts. For more about Rynn, even more recipes, decorating tips, and much more, visit thehouseofelynryn.com.
Eddie lives in Copeland, NC. His column reflects his life experiences and stories that have been passed down to him. He is an encourager and considers himself a cheerleader for daily life. Eddie builds custom-crafted furniture in his small business, New Venture Woodworx. He also turns wooden bowls on a lathe and sells those at art and craft shows.
Contributors
Madalyn Edwards
Madalyn is from Mount Airy, NC, and is currently a junior at Appalachian State University. She is studying English with a concentration in professional writing and minoring in communication with a concentration in journalism. She writes for Surry Living and also works on the news desk for her university’s student news organization. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her two dogs.
Sheri, now happily retired, finds nothing more enjoyable than time spent with her husband of fifty years, her amazing daughter, and sweet elderly pup. She authored two novels, A Higher Voice and A Deeper Cut (which also ran as a serial feature in Surry Living Magazine.) Her play, No Ordinary Wine, written in collaboration with a fine producer/director, was well received, and a second play, Improbable Grace, awaits discovery.
Blake grew up in and around the outskirts of Winston-Salem. He and his wife, Angie, currently live in the small town of East Bend. Blake graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree in psychology and loves finding ways to help others. He also enjoys reading the Bible, painting, and spending time outdoors.
Carmen is an NC Cooperative Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences. Making quick, easy, healthy food that tastes great on a budget is a challenge. Carmen and her husband have two grown children, both of whom were involved in sports from grade school through college. With busy careers and lots of time at sporting events, coming up with quick, healthy meals was a necessity. Carmen shares ideas and recipes to make this tough job easier.
Derina is the executive editor and owner of Surry Living Magazine. She is also a professional horsewoman with a passion for connecting horses, nature, and people. Derina lives on her ranch in Westfield, NC, with her husband, Kevin,
son Kage, and daughter, Kaleah. She enjoys horse riding, traveling, and attending church at Asbury Evangelical Presbyterian.
Kevin is a Christian business owner who loves serving Mount Airy and its’ citizens. In addition to being the publisher and owner of Surry Living Magazine, he is also a physical therapist, Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, and published author. His passion is to help others find their way to health, success, and happiness throughout his areas of expertise. Kevin has assembled a first-rate team of therapists dedicated to keeping Surry County residents out of pain and in motion. He has an unstoppable, positive attitude that is contagious, and we hope you catch it through his column.
Blake Johnson
Sheri Wren Haymore
Derina Pyles
Eddie Lowe
Rynn Hennings
Kevin Pyles
Carmen Long
Joanna Radford
Joanna is the County Extension Director for NC Cooperative Extension in Surry County as well as the Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent with expertise in entomology, gardening, and pesticide education. Joanna began her career with NC Cooperative Extension in Stokes County in 1995 as a 4-H Agent, later switching to Field Crops and Pesticide Education in Surry County. She lives on a farm with her husband and two teenage daughters.
Larry is the Executive Director for the Alleghany Chamber of Commerce in the Blue Ridge Mountains of central North Carolina. Some of you may know him as the former co-owner of SLM. He has more than 30 years of experience as a writer, graphic designer, photographer, and book and magazine publisher. Larry and his wife, Trina, have four wonderful, grown children and live on a small farm just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Grayson County, VA.
Contributors
Emma Rose
Emma is an editor, author and publisher with an eye for detail. After graduating with a degree in journalism, she has spent more than 15 years helping people and organizations tell their stories. She believes in the power of words to inspire, educate and unite people. In her free time, she writes fantasy novels and delivers presentations on the connections between writing and mental health.
Dr. Sarah Southard, DVM
Sarah grew up at Crooked Oak in the Pine Ridge community of Surry County. Raised in the agriculture world, she went on to earn degrees in animal science and veterinary medicine from North Carolina State University. She and her husband, Adam, and son, Malachi, currently live in Statesville with Oliver the house rabbit, a few cats, Blossom the donkey, and a flock of Katahdin hair sheep.
Josh Snow, from King, NC, is known for his big personality and love for adventure. An avid fisherman, he finds peace on the water. At 41, Josh took on the challenge of jiu-jitsu, proving it’s never too late for new beginnings. He cherishes spending time with family and friends, bringing energy and enthusiasm to every gathering.
Larry VanHoose
Josh Snow
Nestled in rural Surry County in Westfield is an event venue with sprawling meadows, hiking trails, and a strong sense of togetherness guests can experience with their loved ones.
Daniel and Ann Wilson are the owners of Big Creek Lodge. They acquired the property for the lodge ten years ago. At the time, they were already operating the Luna’s Trail Farm and Event Center, named after their dog, who loved to roam the surrounding trails and meadows. The new acquisition meant they could expand the business, taking full advantage of the now 350-acre property.
On the far side of the property from the Luna’s Trail Venue, they built Big Creek Lodge as a more intimate event space with nine rooms for guest. This brought the total occupancy of the property up to 46 people when combined with the three previously existing cabins. They also added a full-service restaurant for guests and the general public to enjoy.
Daniel Wilson said he was excited to use the new space, and already had numerous weddings booked at the Lodge. But there was one problem:
“We open up, and two weeks later, there’s a global pandemic and we’re canceling almost every wedding we have on the book,” he said. Both Big Creek Lodge and the Luna’s Trail Venue had to be completely shut down.
The brand new restaurant they had just built was suddenly empty too. Guests were not allowed inside or even on the front porch.
Daniel and Ann Wilson were faced with a difficult decision: should they completely close the restaurant or switch to takeout services? Together, the Wilsons and the recently hired chef decided to offer takeout.
“My wife and I were in there washing dishes,” Wilson said. “We were being the expeditors.”
The many months of delay and upheaval were not what they had hoped for the grand opening of their new space. “It was challenging, for sure,” Wilson said.
Eventually, they were able to transition to counter services, but they waited to book weddings until it seemed safer to do so.
Today, the restaurant is open from Thursday afternoon through Sunday brunch, on a reservation basis. The menu offers a variety of dishes including steak, salmon, pasta, chicken marsala, pizza, and burgers. A new menu update will offer old favorites as well as a broader variety of southern-inspired cuisine.
Weddings and other events are also back on the books. Between the Luna’s Trail Venue and Big Creek Lodge, the property hosts around 60 weddings per year, but they are capable of hosting upwards of 80 per year if they choose to.
Wilson says there are several reasons why guests choose the Luna’s Trail Farm and Event Center to host their weddings and events.
First, the lodge allows guests to “relax, spend time, and celebrate.” The Wilsons offer packages where guests can stay on-site with their family and friends prior to the wedding. This helps minimize stress for the happy couple on their wedding day. Emphasizing togetherness throughout the stay means guests don’t have to worry about cramming in quality time during the reception.
Another advantage is that guests don’t have to worry about being in a rush to set up the decorations or take photos. With plenty of time and space at Big Creek Lodge, guests are able to enjoy their setting and take plenty of pictures.
One final plus of the venues is the scenery. Big Creek Lodge offers “incredible” views of Hanging Rock, the Sauratown Mountains, and Pilot Mountain. The Luna Trail Venue is surrounded by meadows which allow guests to feel like they’re “in their own little world out there.”
Wilson said availability for the venues can vary, but in some cases weekend dates can become available throughout the year due to cancellations. The general public can stay as well, though non-wedding bookings only open up three months in advance to accommodate for wedding guests.
Some guests return year after year, and many couples who held their wedding at the venues return to celebrate occasions such as their anniversary. Wilson loves receiving feedback from guests, hearing heartwarming messages about their stay and special day.
“I hear from people that they really enjoyed their time and they say that our staff was happy and helpful,” he said. “I think those are the most rewarding times of the job.”
Despite the disruption of pandemic shutdowns, the Wilsons continue to update and expand amenities to better serve their guests. They’re adding a ropes course, swimming pool, and fourth cabin. Daniel Wilson hopes the ropes course in particular will attracted companies that want to engage in team-building activities.
For information about booking a stay or wedding, contact Daniel Wilson at office@lunatrails.com or call at (336) 351-2052. Dining reservations may be made on their website at lunastrail.com. The owners also offer tours for wedding guests.
Attracting and Manifesting Abundance: Unlocking the Secrets to a Prosperous Life
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly attract abundance into their lives, while others struggle to make ends meet? Is there a secret formula to manifest wealth and prosperity in all aspects of life? The answer lies in understanding the power of attraction and the art of manifestation.
Abundance is not limited to just financial wealth; it encompasses every aspect of our lives, including relationships, health, and personal fulfillment. The journey to attracting and manifesting abundance begins with a shift in mindset and the belief that you are deserving of a life filled with prosperity and success.
1. The Power of Positive Thinking
The first step toward attracting abundance is to embrace a positive mindset. Your thoughts and beliefs shape your reality, and by focusing on positive thoughts, you can attract positive outcomes. Start by replacing self-limiting beliefs with empowering affirmations. Repeat statements like “I am worthy of abundance and success” or “I have the power to create the life of my dreams” daily. As you cultivate a positive mindset, you will notice a shift in your energy, attracting abundance into your life.
2. Visualize Your Dreams
Visualization is a powerful tool in the manifestation process. Take time each day to visualize your dreams and goals as if they have already been achieved. Imagine yourself living in abundance, feeling the emotions of joy, gratitude, and fulfillment. By visualizing your desires, you send a clear message to the universe and align your energy with the vibration of abundance.
3. Set Clear Intentions
Setting clear intentions is crucial in manifesting abundance. Be specific about what you want to attract into your life. Write down your goals, desires, and dreams in detail. The act of putting your intentions on paper activates the manifestation process. Review your intentions regularly and take inspired actions toward achieving them. The universe responds to clarity and purpose.
4. Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude is a powerful magnet for abundance. Being grateful for what you already have creates a positive energy flow, which attracts more blessings into your life. Make a gratitude list daily, focusing on both big and trivial things you are grateful for. Expressing gratitude not only shifts your energy but also opens you up to receiving more abundance.
5. Take Inspired Action
Manifestation is not just about wishful thinking; it requires taking inspired action towards your goals. Follow your intuition and take steps that align with your desires. Break your goals into smaller actionable tasks and work towards them consistently. By taking inspired action, you demonstrate to the universe your commitment and determination, paving the way for abundance to flow into your life.
6. Surround Yourself with Abundance
To attract abundance, it is essential to surround yourself with positive and like-minded individuals. Build a supportive network of people who inspire and uplift you. Seek out mentors or join groups that align with your goals and aspirations. Surrounding yourself with abundance-conscious individuals creates an energetic environment that supports your manifestation journey.
In conclusion, attracting and manifesting abundance is a process that begins with changing your mindset and beliefs. By embracing positive thinking, visualizing your dreams, setting clear intentions, practicing gratitude, taking inspired action, and surrounding yourself with abundance, you can unlock the secrets to a prosperous life. Remember, abundance is not just about financial wealth but encompasses all aspects of your life. Embrace the journey, trust in the process, and watch as abundance unfolds before your eyes.
Kevin Pyles
S p e e c h T h e r a p y
MORE
by Sheri Wren Haymore
What do you want more of? Have you ever thought about that? I’m not talking about something you go out and buy to fill already over-stuffed closets and cupboards with more stuff. I’m talking about things we intrinsically know are good for our souls. Things like more time with family, more fishing, more stargazing, more live music. I’ll ask again: what do you want more of?
For me, deep down, I know I need more time in nature. I was the little girl who played with bugs and frogs, the kid who wandered around the backyard sampling all the flowers and leaves to see how things tasted. Rocks and seashells and clouds were all a source of endless fascination.
Perhaps you remember being that kid who loved the outdoors too. We grow up, though, don’t we? We have jobs, pressing matters to attend to, stress pushing us on our right, obligations pulling us on our left, and a cell phone screen in front of our face. No wonder we walk around with hunched shoulders, our brains a tangled mess! Who has time to lie on a blanket in the grass and gaze at the clouds?
And yet the Psalmist declares, “The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.” (Psalm 19:1 NLT) For me, time spent in nature slows down my spinning thoughts and gives me perspective. What is this thing we call life, and where do I fit into the scheme of it? I’ve wondered at the magnificence of a redwood tree, reveled at the sight of orcas playing in the Pacific, marveled at a nautilus whose spiraled shell would fit on the head of a pin. What handiwork went into the creation of a fritillary butterfly!
My husband and I have spent decades hiking the trails of our nearby state parks—Pilot Mountain and Stone Mountain especially. The waterfalls of the southwestern North Carolina mountains have called to us again and again. Our running joke is that we’ve hiked a “good portion” of the Appalachian Trail.
By “good portion” we mean those well-tromped sections like Grayson Highlands and Roan Mountain where amateurs like us can park a car and stroll a few short miles out and back on the famous trail. Earlier this week, we climbed the 832 staircase steps of the Gorge trail in New York’s Watkins Glen State Park to view the waterfalls.
What have all the countless hours on trails accomplished for us, besides proving our bodies can still move? For one thing, even when we were crazy busy at work, allowing space on the schedule to get outdoors provided us with time to connect with each other, as well as with friends. There’s a magical alchemy that happens when you slow down and savor the view—you also savor the fellowship of your companions. There must be something to this; my husband and I just celebrated our fiftieth wedding anniversary.
As I write this, I’m sitting on our back porch listening to a wood thrush trilling its flute-like song from the trees close-by. A cheeky little wren just landed on the porch rail and fussed at me. If I return to the porch this evening, I know I’ll hear the happy sundown calls of robins and bluebirds—that’s assuming the resident mockingbird hushes long enough to hear anybody else. Being surrounded by birds reminds me of three separate instances when a timely visitation by a raptor brought special significance.
A few years back, when my heart grieved over upheaval at church, we took our kayaks to the New River for a leisurely paddle. As soon as I pushed away from shore and pointed my orange kayak downstream, I leaned back in the seat and looked heavenward. There, directly above me, soared a bald eagle, unmistakable with its white head and tail feathers. As I watched him, he seemed to be watching me, and I felt beyond doubt that I was neither unseen nor forgotten by my Heavenly Father.
Another time, my husband and I delivered custom furniture
to a client whose home was on Olde Mill Golf Course. The client wanted to show us the view from his back deck. While he described his plans for his newly purchased home, a very fat red-tailed hawk landed on the deck rail six feet away. As the bird regarded us with a menacing stare, we were afraid to move, almost afraid to breathe, lest we startle him into flight. Time stood still as we focused on the stunning presence of this fierce creature. When he finally became bored with the stare-down and spread his mighty wings and flew away, I wondered what message he might have brought with him. For certain, the bird was living his best life on the golf course with the open expanse of fairways and greens as a hunting ground. Perhaps the message was simply to take it all in and enjoy every moment.
A third raptor visited in January 2021. My husband, who is almost never sick, became so ill he could hardly crawl from the bed to the toilet. Even though an urgent care visit assured us that it was a common stomach virus, I was terrified, because we had friends who had been horribly sick—and one who had died—with COVID. Sometime after midnight, unable to sleep, I was pacing the house and heard a sound I couldn’t identify. It seemed to be an owl hooting along with something else. I opened the back door, and there, silhouetted against the night sky, was a great horned owl clinging to the bare branch of a walnut tree. His deep, booming five-note call was overlapped by
the answering call of his mate across the field. As I watched and listened, the intervals between the call and response became longer, and finally, I could tell that the mate was moving farther away. With breath-taking grace, the huge owl lifted off and followed her voice into the night. The experience could only be described as enchanting. Once again, nature reminded me that the same Creator who keeps it all going cares enough about my worries to reach down and offer me a smile.
While I’ve been recounting the reasons why nature is what I want more of, have you given thought to what it is that you want more of? Perhaps you want more healthy meals, more meditation, more golfing, more laughter with friends. I think that we instinctively know what will nurture our spirits. If you can get at the heart of your desire— the reason you want more—then the next question to ask is this: What is stopping me from having more? Author and minister A. W. Tozer wrote, “We have as much of God as we actually want.” I think that statement is quite true, and I also believe that it can apply to our deepest desires as well. If you don’t have all you want of the thing that you want more of, then why not? And what will you do about it?
Leave all the hassles of home ownership behind and truly enjoy a relaxed lifestyle in our resident centered community. Parkwood Place is a small independent living community consisting of fifty two one-level apartments located in a quaint, wooded area. Our apartments are available in four sizes and come with a private patio and outside entrance.
Blake’s Take
BLAKE JOHNSON
Blake,
I am so frustrated with people. Every time I put my trust in someone, they let me down. Can anyone be trusted anymore? Should I give up on trusting people altogether?
Thanks, Anonymous
KEVIN PYLES, PT
Dear anonymous,
It’s true! In a world of so much deception, it’s getting harder and harder to find truth in anything. Honesty seems to be a lost commodity. People are no longer loyal to the values of truth and are consumed with self-righteousness. Have we forgotten that trust is a foundational element to building quality relationships? Maybe that’s it. Maybe we are becoming comfortable as self-promoters and no longer rely on support from others. Although I don’t think we are completely there yet, it’s easy to envision the future this way as more and more depend solely on social media for communication. Trust could very well fade into the past along with other social morals and values if we are not careful.
What is trust? According to Merriam-Webster, trust is the assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of someone. We rely on trust to reinforce and develop a sense of security with one another. Relationships bonded in trust are beautiful because they can provide comfort and peace of mind, and boost confidence. Unfortunately, as you are experiencing, we often experience letdowns in search of it. As you mention, this leads to frustration and a willingness to give up on trusting people altogether.
To answer your first question: yes, there are people who
can still be trusted. People have different morals and values, and while some may not see the importance of honesty, I believe many still hold it in high regard. When you meet new people, talk about your morals and values. Let them know you have trust issues and you value honesty. Until you know you have someone you can trust, keep your heart and secrets heavily guarded. Only let down your guard when trust is proven. It really all boils down to learning who and when to trust. It can be a daunting and long process, but trust me, it’s worth it when you find people to share life experiences with.
As an answer to your second question: no, you should never give up on trusting in people. Yes, it is downright frustrating and hurtful when someone deceives you. It will make you feel like shutting down and never opening up again. It will seem easier to evade relationships altogether just to avoid the possibility of betrayal. The problem with evading relationships is that without them, you also escape any joy and happiness that they may bring. As so eloquently stated by Lord Tennyson (1850), “Tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all.” This is so true! When you reflect on memories and past relationships, it’s usually the good times that find their way to the surface. Our mind automatically suppresses painful experiences, so let it do the work and don’t
dwell on those who let you down. Continue to have hope in your search for good and wholesome trustworthy people. Does this mean that you should keep and remain vested in all relationships? Absolutely not. You should learn to weigh them and sort them out accordingly. In some cases, it is okay to forgive and rebuild. Some relationships may even become stronger after trust has been tested. However, you should always walk away from those who repeatedly disregard your trust and cause you pain. Exposing them is God’s way of revealing who to leave behind.
Here are a couple of tips that have always helped me weed out toxic people. First, be aware of those who lie about everything. It’s only a matter of time before they are lying to you or spreading lies about you. Next, if someone continually comes to you with other people’s struggles and secrets, rest assured that when you are not around they are telling others the exact same things about you. Gossipers gossip about everyone including those closest to them. Stay away from these people or at all costs. Continuing your search for relationships is worth it. Just be cautious and look for the values you find important in others. As for the rest of society, I think we all could use some breaks from social media to hone our real relationship skills. It’s sad to
watch them go to waste behind cell phones, tablets, and computer screens. Anyway, that’s my take. I hope this helps and restores a little of your faith in people.
Sincerely,
*Tennyson, Lord Alfred. “In Memoriam A. H. H. OBIIT MDCCCXXXIII: 27 .” 1850.
“Celebrating 86 YEARS OF SERVICE in the Area!”
From the Farm to Fulfillment: The Journey that Leads to Success Fourth of July
My journey into the world of work began humbly enough, with a job that paid only one dollar an hour on a neighbor’s farm, helping to prepare the soil, plant the crops, pull weeds, pull more weeds, and finally, if you did everything right, the bugs stayed away, and the weather cooperated, you got to the harvest. It was a small farm where the sun was my clock and the soil my playground. Back then, the value of a dollar meant little to me— it didn’t mean much to anyone else either. What mattered was the learning, experiencing for the first time a sense of responsibility, the connection to the land, the satisfaction of seeing the fruits of my labor growing before my eyes, and hopefully, the farmer’s simple nod of appreciation.
Working on that farm taught me lessons that no classroom ever could. I learned the importance of hard work, the necessity
by Larry Van Hoose
of perseverance, and the simple joy of a job well done. Each day, as I toiled in the fields, I was instilled with a deep respect for the value of honest labor and the beauty of nature’s cycles.
As the years passed, my journey took me far beyond those familiar fields. I explored different careers, always chasing the next paycheck, the next promotion, the next big thing. But no matter how much money I made, something always felt amiss. There was a hollow space within me that no amount of financial success could fill. It was during this period of my life that I began to understand a fundamental truth: it’s not about how much money you make; it’s about doing something you are passionate about for the people you love.
Eventually, this realization led me back to my roots, not literally to the farm, but to the essence of what that farm job
represented—working hard with my hands, following my passions, and making a difference in the lives of others. I started to seek work that aligned with my values and passions. I pursued projects that excited me, that I believed in, and that had the potential to positively impact others. The satisfaction I once found in the soil, I now find in the joy of creating, serving, and contributing to my community.
Working for yourself is not without its challenges. There are days of uncertainty, moments of doubt, and times when the weight of responsibility feels overwhelming. But there is also unparalleled freedom and fulfillment. The freedom to chart your own course, to follow your dreams, and to work on what truly matters to you. But whether you work for yourself or choose a career path that has you reporting to someone else, the fulfillment of knowing that your work has purpose, that it serves others, and that it reflects your deepest passions and values is priceless.
Today, I wake up each morning with a sense of purpose and excitement. I no longer measure my success by the size of my paycheck, but by the smiles I bring to others, the positive impact of my work on the people and community I care about, and the joy I find in each day’s tasks. I have learned that true wealth is not found in material possessions but in the richness of a life lived with passion and love.
My journey from the farm to where I am today has been a long and winding road, filled with lessons and discoveries. It has taught me that working toward your passion, while challenging, is one of the most rewarding paths you can take. It’s a journey of self-discovery, of finding what makes you feel strongly about something or someone, and of making a meaningful difference in the world. It all started with that simple job on a farm, where I learned the value of hard work, the joy of a job well done, and the importance of doing what you love for those you love. Success is more than a destination; maybe it’s not a destination at all but a journey.
SURRY SEEN
Exceptional acreage in desirable location. Suitable for homesties or family farm or recreation. Eldora Rd. MLS 4158574 $896,000. 112 ACRES • SURRY COUNTY NEW!
1.7 ACRES • IREDELL CO. NEW!
Wooded land in quiet location on dead end road. Big trees, good road frontage. 267 Idaho Rd. MLS 4146415 $69,900.
Large wooded tract in Roaring River with creek. Excellent location, rural yet close to amenities. Mathis Mill Rd. MLS 4120714. $305,500.
Open land with creek. PAVED ROAD FRONTAGE. Mostly open, good road frontage. 345 Chief Thomas Rd. MLS 4034088. $699,900.
194 ACRES • SURRY COUNTY NEW!
Nice, long range views. Secluded, private. Mature trees, deer, turkey and small game. Rare opportunity. Harbour Lane. MLS 4158567 $1,100,000.
2.3 ACRES • IREDELL CO. NEW!
Big trees and good road frontage. Wooded and in nice, quiet, east Iredell location. 273 Idaho Rd. MLS 4146480 $64,900.
ACRES • IREDELL COUNTY
Wooded acreage. Creek. Some 15 year old lobby pines. Excellent location on dead end road. Alexander Farm Rd. MLS 4122379 $849,900.
BUILDING LOT in city of Statesville with water and sewer. 756 Boulder Place. MLS 4079071. $39,900. 0.47 ACRE • IREDELL
57 ACRES • IREDELL COUNTY
Mostly wooded. Nice homesite or could be developed after County Planning Department approval. Harris Bridge Rd. MLS 4102613. $597,900.
Wooded land, good road frontage in great location. This tract will require a driveway and some grading. Teaberry Road. MLS 4062727. $150,000.
Wooded building lot in desirable North Iredell location. S. Yadkin River Road. MLS 4078730. $29,900.
OPEN LAND with nice out buildings & creek in North Iredell County. Paved Road Frontage. 325 Chief Thomas Road. MLS 4034124. $849,900.
5.12 ACRES • IREDELL COUNTY
Large building lot in city of Statesville. Mature woods and creek. Beautiful! Beauty Street. MLS 4078728. $129,900.
By Gosh! BY JOSH
By gosh, did you know Pilot Mountain is one of North Carolina’s most iconic natural landmarks, and its journey to becoming a state park is a tale of vision, dedication, and community spirit?
Pilot Mountain, with its distinctive pinnacle, known as Big Pinnacle, rising 2,421 feet above sea level, has long been a beacon for explorers and nature enthusiasts. Its striking profile can be seen from miles away, making it a natural landmark that has captured the imaginations of people for centuries. The mountain’s unique geology and breathtaking vistas have made it a cherished destination, but its preservation as a state park was not always guaranteed.
The land that comprises Pilot Mountain State Park was originally owned by the Horne family. In the early 20th century, local residents and conservationists began to recognize the need to protect this natural wonder from potential threats of development and deforestation. The initial push came from these local citizens, who were passionate about preserving the natural beauty and ecological significance of Pilot Mountain. They began advocating for the area to be protected for future generations to enjoy.
In the 1960s, the movement gained significant momentum. A group of dedicated individuals formed the Pilot Mountain Preservation and Park Committee, which worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds to support the cause. Their efforts caught the attention of state officials and conservation organizations, who recognized the importance of preserving such a
unique geological and natural feature.
The turning point came when Mrs. J. W. Horne, the landowner, and her family decided to donate a significant portion of the land to the state. This generous donation was crucial in the establishment of the park. In 1968, the North Carolina General Assembly took a monumental step by officially designating Pilot Mountain as a state park. This decision was a testament to the hard work and unwavering dedication of the local community and conservationists who had fought to protect the mountain.
Since its designation, Pilot Mountain State Park has become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, rock climbing, camping, and bird watching. The park’s extensive trail system allows visitors to explore the diverse landscapes, from the rugged terrain of the mountain itself to the serene Yadkin River section. Educational programs and interpretive exhibits also provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the area’s natural and cultural history.
Today, Pilot Mountain State Park stands as a testament to the power of community action and the importance of preserving natural landmarks. It serves as a reminder that with dedication and collective effort we can protect and cherish our natural heritage for generations to come. So next time you visit this majestic peak, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the Horne family and those who worked so hard to make it a state park, ensuring that Pilot Mountain’s beauty and significance will endure.
Decades in the Water: Summers Remembered
by EDDIE LOWE
I go back in my mind to recollect summers of my youth — my parents taking us kids swimming at the river. Many of the swimming holes had names. One was called “the bluff,” while another was called “the Davis hole,” and another called “the pinky hole.” To this day, those names bring me right back to summer and the water.
Dad was 36 and mom was 31 when I was born. Two beautiful people in their prime and with lots of energy meant lake trips. Mom and Dad went to Claytor Lake most weekends even before I was born, so you could say I was born to love the water. To this day, if I think hard, I can remember riding on dad’s shoulders as he waded in the water.
Summertime in the 80s brought age for mom and dad, and with age they sold the boat and lake life was over. It was then that us kids went to the pool simply called “the Y.” The mill our parents worked at offered membership, so off we went. It was not uncommon in those days for bunches of kids to walk there. During the lunch break for the pool many of us would walk uptown to CF Jones for ice cream.
Later, as a teenage boy with my friends, I also walked to the river. The spot we went involved a bicycle ride to a cow pasture (where AES on Riverside Drive is now located). I can still remember the horse flies nipping at us and the scare of a bull as we ran across the pasture to a spot called “the blue hole.”
Oddly enough, I didn’t see the ocean until I was around 17 when the parents of some friends took me with them to Atlantic Beach. We stayed at the Iron Steamer motel, which is long gone.
I can still taste the first gulp of ocean water as I screamed with delight!
Summertime in the 90s brought marriage and kids of my own. It was my turn to carry kids on my shoulders into the water and hear their delighted screams. Sunburn and sand marked every summer for my kids and me.
But summertime flew by and fall rolled in. School started. Years piled up, and the kids grew, and I found myself feeling older. I suppose the toughest trek any parent makes is trying to carry all the beach toys and chairs across the burning sand only to stay one hour! Soon, it seemed a rented tent and chairs were the way to go. As I look back, those were precious times when lasting memories were made.
Summers in the 2000s still involved beach trips every summer with the kids, and their friends would come too. It seems that when your kids have friends along it isn’t as hard. I started playing golf, and the beach is a golf Mecca.
My dad had warned me of how time would fly by and of course I didn’t believe him. Soon my own kids would drive themselves to the beach and time really rolled on.
By the 2010s, summers were a blur. Work and bills seem to take hold, but the love for the water always remained.
Today, grown kids bring new joy to summer for me. Grandkids have come along, and my shoulders again bear a giggling child as we wade into the water. It doesn’t seem so long ago I was being carried and now I’m carrying grandkids. But the lure of the water and summer will always go hand and hand!
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
ZUCCHINI, ZUCCHINI, ZUCCHINI
by CARMEN LONG with Simply Delicious
Zucchini squash are typically one of the first vegetables I harvest from my garden each summer. Finding those little green squash hiding under the big leaves of the plant is so exciting. Some years, those few squash plants can lead to a bumper crop, and by the end of the summer the excitement of finding zucchini has worn off.
If you have prepared zucchini every way imaginable and still have fresh squash to spare, consider celebrating National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day. Observed on August 8th of each year, this celebration dates back to 1944 when Thomas Roy of Pennsylvania came up with the idea to share the wealth of zucchini. Sharing vegetables with neighbors, friends, or a local food bank is a great way to avoid having excess produce go to waste.
Zucchini is a type of soft-shell summer squash. It is actually the fruit of the plant but is considered a vegetable because of the nutrients it provides. Zucchinis are a good source of vitamin C while also providing some magnesium and vitamin B6.
Some zucchinis grow on bushes, others on vines. The zucchini plant develops flowers, known as squash blossoms, which can be eaten. After the flowers are pollinated, zucchini will begin to grow just behind the flower. As the squash grows, the flower dries up and falls off.
Produce Tips
• Look for zucchinis with shiny skin that feel heavy for their size. Ripe zucchinis should feel slightly firm.
• Keep whole zucchinis in the refrigerator for up to five days. For maximum freshness, wash zucchinis just before using.
• Put sliced zucchinis in a sealed plastic bag. Keep in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• Healthy Serving Ideas
• Sauté chopped zucchini, yellow squash, onions, and peppers. Add to chicken enchiladas, burritos, or quesadillas.
• Dip raw zucchini slices into low-fat salad dressing for a light summer snack.
• Sauté chopped zucchini with garlic and a dash of oregano. Sprinkle with low-fat cheese and serve as a warm side dish.
• Zucchini is delicious grilled, served on its own with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, or chopped into a grilled veggie salad.
• Make zucchini muffins. For a quick version, start with a cake mix. Muffins bake much faster than a loaf of bread, equaling less heat in the kitchen on a hot summer day.
Source: NC Steps to Health Harvest of the Month
Zucchini Carrot Muffins Makes: 16 muffins
INGREDIENTS
• 1 pkg. carrot cake mix
• 1 egg
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini
• ½ cup raisins
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, egg, applesauce, and oil; mix well.
2. Stir in the zucchini, raisins, and pecans.
3. Fill greased or paper lined muffin cups ¾ full.
4. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick inserted into a muffin comes out clean.
Note: You can substitute some grated carrots for part of the zucchini.
TEXAS CAVIAR (COWBOY CAVIAR)
by RYNN HENNINGS
The Sweet and Savory Life
Texas Caviar or Cowboy Caviar is a quintessential summer salad with fresh garden vegetables, black-eyed peas, black beans, and a tangy honey-lime dressing. It is full of nutrients and is a delicious way to eat more vegetables!
This is the summer salad that I make and keep in the refrigerator because it is one of my favorite go-to lunches! I rotate it with Black Bean and Corn Salad and Black Bean and Corn Salsa. Although all three dishes have similar ingredients, this one has a subtle honey-lime dressing with a little peppery heat. The salad dressing is not too heavy and gives the vegetables a mild lime taste.
How Did Cowboy Caviar Get Its Name?
Texas Caviar, aka Houston Caviar, supposedly got its name because the black eye of the black-eyed peas resembled real caviar. It was a humorous comparison that later earned the dish another name, “Cowboy Caviar,” to poke a little fun at the common ingredients that varied greatly from real caviar. Originally served around 1940 on New Year’s Eve at the Houston Country Club, it is now known–and loved–nationwide!
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS
Vegetables
• (1) 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
• (1) 15-ounce can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn
• 2 large banana peppers, chopped
• 1 1/4 cups tomatoes, chopped (cored and de-seeded)
• 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
• 1 large jalapeno, chopped fine
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup avocado, chopped (optional) (dip in lemon juice to prevent browning)
Dressing
• 1 lime zested
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (large or small pinch depending on how much heat you want)
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
Vegetables
1. beans and peas. Let the water drip off them.
2. Heat the corn in a skillet. Stir to cook for 3-4 minutes. Add (if needed) a little cooking oil to prevent the corn from sticking to the pan. Set it aside to cool.
3. Chop all the vegetables and add them to a medium bowl. Add the black beans, peas, and corn. Stir to mix well.
Dressing
1. Whisk all of the dressing ingredients together until emulsified. You can also blend using a blender.
2. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and mix well.
Serve this dish as an appetizer with chips, as a salad, or as a side dish. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.
RECIPE NOTES
Customize to Taste
The beauty of this salad is that you can add other chopped vegetables or fruits without changing the base flavor. For example, you might add chopped peaches or mangoes to give it a sweet taste or hot peppers to give it a spicy kick.
Cilantro-Free Version
This salad is delicious with cilantro. However, if you don’t like cilantro, you can substitute another fresh herb, such as chopped basil or oregano, or leave off the herbs altogether.
For more recipes and entertaining and lifestyle hints, visit Rynn’s blog at thehouseofelynryn.com.
farm,
Garden Home, &
Leyland Cypress Diseases
by JOANNA RADFORD
The Leyland cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii) has been a popular landscape tree in North Carolina over the past ten to twenty years, especially for screens and hedges. Several diseases affecting them are becoming more common. Many homeowners are now seeing problems with their trees, such as browning or bronzing of the needles. Some possible disease culprits include Seiridium and Botryosphaeria cankers, Cercospora needle blight, and Phytophthora and Annosus root rots.
Cankers
Seiridium canker, caused by Seiridium unicorne, is probably the most damaging disease on Leyland cypress. Plants of all sizes and ages are affected. Cankers may form on stems, branches and in the angle between branches. This can cause twig, branch, or — on smaller plants — stem
dieback. Cankers appear as sunken, dark brown or purplish patches on the bark, often accompanied by extensive resin flow. Keep in mind that resin can ooze from the branches and stems of otherwise healthy plants of Leyland cypress, thus resin flow by itself does not necessarily mean that a Seiridium canker is present. Look for other signs as well.
Scattered twigs or branches killed by the fungus turn bright reddish brown in striking contrast to the dark green healthy foliage. Fruiting bodies of the fungus appear on the bark surface of the cankers as small circular black dots barely visible to the naked eye. Spores of the fungus are spread to other parts of an infected tree, or from tree to tree, by water splash from rain or irrigation. The fungus also can be spread from tree to tree on pruning tools. Long distance spread appears to happen through the transport of infected cuttings or plants.
Currently, there are no chemical control measures recommended for the disease in the landscape or nursery. Avoiding water stress (drought or under watering) and tree wounding may reduce infection. Infected branches or twigs should be pruned and destroyed as soon as symptoms are noted. Prune at least one inch below the canker and sterilize the pruning tools between cuts by dipping them in rubbing alcohol or in a solution of one part chlorine bleach to nine parts water. Tools should be cleaned and oiled after using bleach to prevent rusting. Severely affected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Needle Blight
Cercospora needle blight, caused by the fungus Cercosporidium sequoiae (syn. Asperisporium sequoiae; Cercospora sequoiae), is a relatively new disease on
Leyland cypress. However, it a common disease on species of Juniperus, Thuja, Cupressus, Taxodium, Cryptomeria, Sequoia, and other genera. The first symptom of Cercospora needle blight is a browning of the needles in the lower crown next to the stem. The disease slowly spreads upward and outward until, in severe cases, only the needles at the tips of the upper branches remain green. In a general way, these symptoms mimic those caused by severe stress, where the interior needles turn yellow and fall off. Fruiting bodies of the fungus appear as tiny greenish pustules on the upper surface of the needles or on small twigs. Spores (conidia) are present throughout the spring and summer and are spread by wind. Infection usually occurs during periods of wet weather.
Cercospora needle blight can be controlled by spraying with copper-containing fungicides. There are no fungicides registered specifically for this disease on Leyland cypress. There are options for general use chemicals on ornamentals.
Root Diseases
Two root diseases may affect Leyland cypress; Phytophthora root rot caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi, and Annosus root rot caused by Heterobasidion annosum.
Phytophthora root rot can be a problem in both the nursery and landscape settings. It primarily affects smaller roots on plants. Large, established trees in the landscape are rarely affected by Phytophthora root rot. The disease is usually more damaging in situations where soil drainage is very poor. Plants with severe root damage may exhibit a general yellowing of the foliage and some tip dieback. Phytophthora root rot can only be diagnosed with certainty by laboratory analysis of affected roots. Nurseries can control the disease by treating with Subdue Maxx fungicide. Chemical control is not recommended for landscape trees.
Annosus root rot is usually associated with landscape plants. Initial infection by the fungus is by spores on the freshly cut stumps of conifers, most commonly pine. The fungus grows through the stump and its root system and may infect
adjacent trees through root contact. The larger roots of the newly infected plants are killed and decayed. Top symptoms may include a yellowing and slow decline, followed by death of the tree; the foliage on the entire tree may suddenly turn a reddish-brown color. Some trees may fall over before any crown symptoms are present. Fruiting bodies of the fungus may form at the base of the tree, usually beneath the mulch or leaf litter. These are usually small, irregular in shape, brown on the upper surface, and white on the lower surface. There are no effective control measures once the tree is infected. As a preventative measure, stumps of felled, living conifers should be either removed completely, or the stump surface treated with dry granular borax immediately after the tree is felled.
Leyland cypress is no longer the tree of choice to plant. There are many other trees that will give privacy screens with fewer disease problems. Before future plantings, investigate trees and their characteristics. The North Carolina State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox is a great resource at http://plants.ces.ncsu. edu.
Willie and Louise Freeman
Residents of Elkin
Married 63 years in August and still in love.
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Email: Info@surryliving.com
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Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense
by DERINA PYLES
It was the type of summer day all trail riders dream about — sunny, warm, but a gentle breeze blowing every now and then to cool. As we ambled down the wooded path, the sound warned us we weren’t far from the rushing creek. Traveler quickened his pace as the talking water lured him in.
“Take it easy fella,” I warned him. “No need to get in a hurry. Remember if you drink too much cold water when you’re hot, you’ll get the bloat.
“Ah, Hay-Woman, you’re always warning me ‘bout something.” Though annoyed, I knew he considered what I said as his stride slowed.
We continued to maneuver our way toward the creek by going off course on a hidden path. Traveler carefully picked his way around each tree, paying attention to any dangerously low branches. Finally arriving at the widest and deepest part of the creek, a place few people knew about, he slowly eased his hooves onto a big rock and into the cool rushing water. Just below us, the creek narrowed and spilled over a giant rock. The result was a loud, rushing waterfall about five feet in width and three feet in height. Very substantial for a creek waterfall.
“Look at this place! The beauty always amazes me. I don’t think God could have created anything more beautiful than this place. What do you think?” I took a deep reflective sigh.
Traveler looked up from his drink. “Well, besides that pile of alfalfa waiting on me back in my stall, I guess I would have to say no.”
“Oh, Traveler, you’re always thinking about your stomach!”
“Well, food is life. That’s what that Pioneer cooking lady on the TV says.” He couldn’t help himself and giggled.
“I guess you have a point,” I grumbled in frustration. “But did you ever stop to consider how very lucky we are to witness the abundance of beauty here?”
“Abundance? Is that like Riverdance? The one that has that fun Irish music?”
“Oh jeez, Traveler, abundance means having a lot of some -
thing. Like, I must always have an abundance of alfalfa because you eat so much. This place has such an abundance of nature, peacefulness, wildlife…beauty.”
“You are right Hay-Woman. I may love my alfalfa, and having a lot of it makes me happy, but true abundance goes beyond food.” He was quiet for a bit, choosing his words carefully. “It’s about finding joy in the little things every day. Simple pleasures that are all around you and may not cost a dime. Like this beautiful setting we are in now. Living abundantly in the here and now!” He looked at me closely to see my reaction.
“That’s amazing, my furry friend. We should always try to embrace life’s abundance. Whether it’s a bale of alfalfa or this pristine creek.”
I patted his neck, and we continued our trail ride. It was the best day.
