Surry Living Magazine - May 2024

If you want to sell all or part of your land, I

ACRES l IREDELL COUNTY

True gem! Long range views, creek frontage, Shelby, NC. Might be highest ground in Cleveland County! W Zion Church. $289,000.

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$249,900.

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Statesville Country Club. Mature trees plus open area. Well established nbhd with community security patrol. MLS 3630494. $90,000. Augusta Dr.

CONTRACT

quadrant of I-77 and new Highway 421. Main Stream flows to Longtown Ck. MLS 3192033 $3,500,000. Lowder Rd. 234 AC | DAVIE CO. UNDER CONTRACT Partly in Mocksville. Paved road frontage on 2 roads. Water & Sewer. MLS 3667968 $1,146,600. Hwy 64 E. 24 AC | MOCKSVILLE 24 acres + older house (needs work) Partially fenced. Nice rural location, close to amenities House is As Is. Nice project. 198 Ponderosa Rd $254,900.

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2 AC | STATESVILLE

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county.

Publisher: Kevin Pyles

Executive Editor: Derina Pyles

Director: Sabrina Lee Baker

Associate Editor: Emma Rose

Creative Director: David Stanley

Graphic Designer: Ashton Young

Contributors: Listed on Pages 4-5

Photographers: Sabrina Lee Baker, Natalie Snow & Sybil Slate

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FEATURE

6 The Shepherd’s House of Mount Airy: Walk Through the Door of Hope

LIFESTYLE

10 The Blue Ridge Music Center

16 What We Leave Behind

20 Motherhood with Muscles 22 Memories of Mama

Hummingbirds, Nature’s Wonder

SOUTHERN TASTE 32 Mom, What is for Dinner? 34 Blackberry Lime Tarts

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN 36 Uninvited Guests

40 Hummingbirds, Nature’s Wonder 46 Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense

The Shepherd’s House is a place where you walk through the door of Hope and they help you in restoring hope and rebuilding lives through the Greater Mount Airy Ministry.

Would you like your business on the front or back cover of Surry Living Magazine? It’s available! Contact us at: WeAddValue@SurryLiving.com

The Shepherd’s House of Mount Airy 6

Memories of Mama

22 40

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 for Economic Development 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.

Rachael Williams

Rachael is a wife, mom, athlete, and movement fanatic. As a Certified Personal Trainer, she helps others move, feel, and perform better through strength and mobility coaching. On the off chance you find her not moving in some way, she’ll likely be sitting on the back porch of her home in Cana, VA reading, writing, or staring off into the woods.

Larry VanHoose

The Shepherd’s House of Mount Airy Walk Through the Door of Hope

by MADALYN EDWARDS

When a young woman arrived at the doorstep of The Shepherd’s House of Mount Airy, director Jana Elliot happened to be on duty to hear her story. She had recently been in the foster care system and legally emancipated herself.

“She was really alone,” Elliot said.

After speaking with team members, the client was guided to an area where she could shower. When she returned, her whole demeanor had changed.

“I’m just so clean,” she said, “I feel so beautiful.”

Elliot burst into tears. “I hugged her and I said, ‘you are beautiful. We’re so thankful that you’re here.’”

This young woman is just one of the nearly 3,000 served by The Shepherd’s House of Mount Airy in the last 20 years. As a Continuum of Care (CoC) program, a homeless assistance program operating in compliance with guidelines set by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, The Shepherd’s House advocates for those currently experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity and has a capacity of 64 beds to house both unaccompanied women and families.

The organization partners with a larger group of service providers that operate in Davie, Iredell, Stokes, Surry, and Yadkin counties.

As soon as clients are welcomed into The Shepherd’s House, they are immediately connected with resources. Residents of the shelter get help with tracking down lost personal records,

registering for benefits, and connecting with other services, such as mental health service providers or programs for those experiencing addiction.

Support for Stability

“A lot of our folks are carrying around a lot of trauma and a lot of guilt, you know, just a lot of different emotions that have caused their growth as an individual to be hampered,” Elliot said.

The team at the Shepherd’s House helps clients develop skills needed to get and maintain a job through various workforce development programs. No one graduates from the program without first developing a means of financial stability.

The ultimate goal is to help clients find stable housing. Trying to place clients with housing can prove to be difficult, especially with the lack of affordable housing. Clients who have no or complex renting history, can enter a temporary housing arrangement with the shelter. They pay rent based on a percentage of their income, and the shelter can provide them with a reference letter for landlords to review.

Additionally, the shelter has a street outreach program that started in November 2022 as a brick-and-mortar program. It provides resources to people who are not currently staying in the shelter.

Recently, the street outreach program has been expanded, and once a month, the team travels to areas across Surry and

Stokes counties providing clients with resources so they can stay in their communities.

Elliot said she recently received a call from a client of the street outreach program letting her know that they got a job. She and her team love to see success stories like these.

“The goal for our street outreach program is to really connect those individuals that are experiencing homelessness and living on the streets with the resources that they need so that they can achieve housing and do a lot of the same case management that we’re doing with our folks in the house,” Elliot said.

Feeding the Community

Another program offered by the nonprofit is a food pantry called Helping Hands. From 2022 to 2023, the shelter saw a 48% increase in foot traffic for food pantry services. Elliot said this was partially the result the recent relocation of the pantry to a more visible and accessible location, and partly because of the rising costs of living in the area.

“If we can prevent someone at the point that they’re first starting to experience some food insecurity from moving further into crisis, then often we can prevent them from becoming a client of the shelter,” Elliot said.

Toward that end, The Shepherd’s House teamed up with Second Harvest Food Bank to offer the Pantry Garden. This program educates clients on how to grow their own food in smaller spaces, offering options for fresh and healthy produce.

“We know that our food pantry is located in a county that has seven identified food deserts,” Elliot explained. “Three of those designations are in the USDA’s top food deserts in the nation, and so we have to really be very thoughtful in the opportunities that we offer.”

Elliot said she and her team are like “squirrels” in the sense that they are always scavenging for new opportunities and programs to offer to clients, including programs focused to give stability to people outside of the shelter.

The Shepherd’s House is currently in the construction phase of building a small men’s shelter, a resource that is not available acrosmost of the areas served by the nonprofit.

Those who wish to donate to the nonprofit can visit the shelter’s website at https://shepherdshousema.org. There are multiple donation options including direct financial donations, an Amazon wish list, and a round-up program that rounds up every purchase to the nearest dollar with the difference donated to the shelter. Additionally, adults and teens can fill out an application to volunteer on the shelter’s website. A volunteer coordinator will reach out to find the best-fit opportunity. The Shepherd’s House is located on 246 Spring Street in Mount Airy, NC.

THE BLUE RIDGE MUSIC CENTER

BY LARRY VAN HOOSE

SHAYE COHN

Let me tell ya ‘bout this ol’ fella who used to live up in these here hills. He had himself a cozy piece of land, sittin’ snug as a bug, right by Fisher’s Peak, ‘round Mile Marker 213 or 214 off the Blue Ridge Parkway. See, he snagged that land soon as he got back from sailin’ the seas for twenty long years in the Navy. Figured he better keep his hands busy, else he’d likely be gettin’ in some kinda trouble or other.

Well, he worked that land good, haulin’ wood for his sawmill and even cleared some of it for hay for his cows that he raised just a mile or so over yonder.

Then, one day, he hears from his mornin’ coffee buddies over at Aunt Bea’s that the Parkway folks was fixin’ to put up some kinda bluegrass music park near his land. Seems they were buyin’ up land left and right, ‘specially on the east side of the road.

But wouldn’t ya know it, turns out they didn’t need his patch. His spot was just a bit off from what they were after. So, he straps on his bright orange suspenders and moseys on down to the parkway office to ‘em know it’s all fine and dandy that they don’t need his patch o’ land, cause he’s already got an offer from some condo folks down Charlotte way, just waitin’ on them music park plans to get the final stamp of approval.

Next thing ya know, he’s got an offer from the Parkway folks –lickety-split!

Now, picture this: you’re sitting on your blanket in the grassy field, taking in a show at the Music Center’s amphitheater, catching the last rays of a summer sunset dancing through the trees. You owe that picturesque view to that old man from over yonder. He sold his piece of the pie to the Parkway Foundation, not the Charlotte condo folks — if they even existed at all.

That may be a cute yarn to tell now, but I’m guessing not so much to the Parkway folks back then. I may or may not be related to that ol’ fella, and I, for one, sure am grateful that there isn’t a condo development overlooking the beautiful Blue Ridge Music Center’s amphitheater — you wouldn’t want anything to detract from the peacefulness of such a place. The views of the surrounding forests and mountains are just gorgeous!

Blue Ridge Mountain music is a living tradition. The Blue Ridge Music Center (BRMC) is proud that the 2024 Deep Roots, Many Voices Summer Outdoor Concert Series has an exciting lineup that surveys the vitality and variety of styles represented in contemporary American roots music — from the super traditional to an exploration of those pushing the boundaries of American roots-based music.

Appearing on the Music Center stage in 2024 are several women who are leading the way in refining, adapting and redefining American roots and traditional mountain music, in some cases, by incorporating other musical styles and genres.

The lineup of more than 20 bands includes Alison Brown with her Quintet, Molly Tuttle and her band Golden Highway, The SteelDrivers featuring founding member Tammy Rogers, American blues and soul singer Martha Redbone, and Shaye Cohn and Erika Lewis of the New Orleans-based jazz and ragtime group Tuba Skinny.

Performing as part of the series are North Carolina roots music mainstays and BRMC fan favorites Steep Canyon Rangers and Mipso.

Appearing this summer on the BRMC stage will be a number of influential and innovative husband and wife-led bands including Chatham Rabbits, Zoe & Cloyd, Wild Ponies, and David Wax Museum.

Representing the more traditional old-time string band and bluegrass sounds that are rooted in communities across southwestern Virginia and northwestern North Carolina are bands Appalachian Road Show, New Ballards Branch Bogtrotters, The Alum Ridge Boys & Ashlee, and None of the Above.

For those who are drawn to more progressive bluegrass sounds, young bluegrass/Americana groups Fireside Collective and Cane Mill Road will be performing together as part of a co-bill of newgrass influenced Americana.

MOLLY TUTTLE

MADDIE DENTON

MARTHA REDBONE

TAMMY ROGERS

ALISON BROWN

ERIKA SKINNY

Concerts take place Saturday nights in the Music Center’s outdoor amphitheater. Gates open at 5:45 p.m. and concerts begin at 7 p.m. Season passes (full season, half season, or pick three) and individual concert tickets are available now at BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org.

The Blue Ridge Music Center, located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, near Galax, Virginia, celebrates the music and musicians of the mountains. The Music Center is a national park facility, a major attraction along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and a venue partner of The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail and Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Parkway/National Park Service maintains and operates the facility, and staffs the Music Center Visitor/Interpretive Center. The programs are managed, coordinated, promoted, and produced by the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, a nonprofit partner organization. For more information, visit BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org.

2024 Summer Concert Series Lineup:

• May 25 East Nash Grass + The Amanda Cook Band

• June 1 Caleb Caudle performing with Wild Ponies

• June 8 Chatham Rabbits

• June 15 The SteelDrivers + The Wilder Flower

• June 22 An Evening with Tuba Skinny

• June 29 Appalachian Road Show + None of the Above

• July 6 The Alum Ridge Boys & Ashlee performing with New Ballards Branch Bogtrotters

• July 13 David Wax Museum

• July 20 Fireside Collective performing with Liam Purcell & Cane Mill Road

• July 27 Martha Redbone + Zoe & Cloyd

• Aug. 3 Mipso

• Aug. 17 An Evening with Steep Canyon Rangers

• Aug. 24 Alison Brown Quintet performing with Wayne Henderson & Friends

• Aug. 31 Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway

Quote of the Month:

“A mother’s arms are made of tenderness, and children sleep soundly in them”

— Victor Hugo

What We Leave Behind

BY SHERI WREN HAYMORE

Is there any holiday that stirs up as many conflicting emotions as Mother’s Day? Maybe for you, it’s a time to celebrate and honor your mom with hugs and sweet-smelling flowers. Or, if your mother is infirm or has passed on, then loneliness, longing, and sadness may all roil up, even amid the laughter going on around you.

And what if your childhood was marked by negligence? What if your desire to be a mother has not been fulfilled or you are estranged from your child? What if you’re a woman sandwiched between the needs of your children and the expectations of the older generation, and you feel dismissed rather than blessed on Mother’s Day?

As I said, this can be a conflicting holiday.

If you’ve followed my musings over the past couple of years, then you might have observed that my mother was a remarkable woman. She was beautiful, accomplished, creative, fashionable, smart, well-read, and youthful — even at ninety. What she was not, was touchy-feely. She was not the mother to comfort a scared child, nor was she one to sit by the bedside of a sick child. Providentially, for those needs, I had my daddy and my big sister.

Which brings me to my point. Anyone can be a nurturer. That gift is not reserved for mothers, or even for women. If you’ve arrived at adulthood somewhat whole as a human, then you can most likely look back at your life and remember the people who nurtured you along the way. They may have been parents or other family members. Perhaps you were encouraged and supported by a neighbor, teacher, a coach, or a boss.

And there are innumerable ways in which we can be nurtured. Mother may not have been sentimental, but she poured the best of herself into her three daughters. All three of us came away from her upbringing not only knowing how to cook and set a table, but with a love for preparing and sharing delicious food. We learned not only how to arrange furnishings, but also how to create a colorful and welcoming environment. We learned the names of birds and flowers and a love for the outdoors. Perhaps our musical tastes differ, but we all love music and learned to harmonize from our mother. And if I’m ever trying to find an obscure book in the Bible, say, Obadiah, I hear my mother’s voice in my mind, reciting those minor prophets to me.

Mark Buchanan, one of my favorite authors, teaches that wisdom is knowing what to do with the things you know. When you and all around you can benefit from your wisdom, that, friends, is the art of living well.

My sister told me once that unconditional love flows downward. While that may be true, nurturing can flow in any direction. Recently, I reached out to my group of praying ladies, thanking them for the many ways in which they’ve nurtured me, pulling me into adulthood over the past thirty years. The ladies texted back, expressing gratitude for my “attention” and “fun-loving spirit.”

Did you know that paying attention is one of the strongest forms of nurture? Look into the eyes of the people around you. Listen. Notice the tender places. See the goodness in their hearts and tell them. Tell your people what you see in them that has made your world better.

And don’t look away. People will fail themselves; they may even fail you. Your job, the very reason you have been placed in their life, may be to remain steady for however long it takes. Being an anchor when it’s tough is the real work of nurturing.

Did you know that play is another form of nurture? My daughter has cultivated a fun-loving spirit, and she shares it with all her people. Dance party? Stroll a garden? Winery tour? Play with dogs/horses/goats/cats? Travel to exotic destinations? Accompany her old folks to a music festival? “Let’s do it,” she’ll say. In her backyard is a fire pit, a hot tub, and two swings. Come play! She knows that when you spend time with someone, simply having fun, and that person walks away feeling better than when they arrived, then you’ve nurtured them.

Isn’t that the point of nurturing — leaving your people better than you found them? Look to your left and to your right at the people who surround you and think of these words: Nourish. Embolden. Encourage. Protect. Elevate. Pour from the resource of wisdom inside yourself into your people, and watch it come back to you ten-fold. Your legacy of sharing the best of yourself is what you will leave behind.

I say this to you even if your life has been marked by a scarcity of nurturing flowing your way. There is some unique knowledge within you, a measure of goodness, that is meant to be shared. Perhaps you can shape the course of someone’s life, including your own.

When I began pondering this Mother’s Day issue of the magazine, my first thought was to interview a friend who has five children. Surely, she has more to teach about motherhood than anyone, right? But I reminded myself that those of us with only one child, or no children, can still possess a mothering spirit. So whoever you are, this Mother’s Day, give yourself a hug and be grateful for all the nurturing that has brought you here. Now go and share.

S t o r e H o u r s

M o n - F r i : 8 a m - 5 : 3 0 p m

S a t u r d a y : 8 a m - 4 p m

STRENGTH & MOBILITY

COACHING

Feel strong, mobile, and confident in your body so you can pursue passions, tackle challenges, and enjoy life to the fullest.

living fit

WITH MUSCLES Motherhood

by RACHAEL WILLIAMS, Certified Personal Trainer

The stereotypical depiction of motherhood often portrays mothers as a family’s primary caregiver. She is focused on nurturing and domestic responsibilities, oftentimes at the expense of her own identity, career, or personal interests. This image emphasizes self-sacrifice and promotes a lack of awareness that mothers are individuals with their own needs, aspirations, and strengths. The diversity of a mother’s experience is often underplayed, and the balance between personal fulfillment and the demands of parenting become skewed.

Recently, a group of mothers has emerged on social media to challenge this stereotypical image. Having given themselves the name Muscle Mommies, they are taking back control of their bodies and individuality without losing the care and respect they have for motherhood and its demands. This movement of mothers prioritizes strength and fitness. They are not just focusing on losing weight or getting back to their pre-pregnancy body; they are embracing weightlifting and strength training as a means to

reclaim their bodies, enhance their wellbeing, and set a powerful example for their children.

Children who grow up seeing their mother prioritize their health and strength are more likely to adopt a similar attitude toward fitness and well-being. Children who witness their mother valuing her well-being are taught implicitly to value their own, to understand the importance of taking care of their minds and bodies, and to approach life’s challenges with a balanced and healthy outlook. Early exposure to an active lifestyle instills values of resilience, discipline and self-care. Children who learn to incorporate self-care into their daily lives are then better equipped to handle stress, anxiety, and the pressures of daily life in a healthy and productive way. This emphasis on self-care and personal well-being supports an environment where mental health is deemed important. In a society where mental health issues are increasingly prevalent, instilling the importance of mental well-being from a young age is crucial.

Healthy Mother, Healthy Family

Health is mental, emotional, and physical. These intertwining aspects of health can fundamentally transform quality of life, and they all affect each other. When mothers, or any individual, focus on strengthening their physical health through weightlifting and strength training, they’re not just enhancing their bodily well-being but also their mental resilience and emotional stability. This approach to health recognizes that the mind and body are not separate entities but deeply connected systems that influence each other.

The emotional benefits of fitness, such as increased confidence and self-esteem, contribute significantly to overall well-being and sense of worth. Mothers who are physically active often experience reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety. Feeling strong and capable physically can translate into a stronger sense of self and a belief in the ability to overcome obstacles, not just in the gym. This empowerment lends itself to a positive self-image that we often see lacking in mothers.

The discipline and effort required to maintain a fitness routine also cultivates emotional resilience, as they learn to push through challenges, set and achieve goals, and manage highs and lows. This resilience is invaluable in coping with the stresses of motherhood. It helps promote a more balanced and positive outlook on life.

Once strength and fitness become a priority, nutrition is not far behind. Understanding and respecting the body’s needs for nutrients to fuel workouts, these mothers create a balanced diet of nutrient-rich foods that include protein for muscle growth, carbohydrates for fuel, and fats for brain and hormone health. And, because mothers typically make the nutritional choices for their children, the entire household benefits.

As mothers begin to exercise more and eat better, the importance of recovery becomes apparent. Recognizing the importance of recovery and self-care goes beyond mere rest. It includes strategies such as quality sleep, stress management techniques, and active recovery methods like yoga or light stretching.

Motherhood, while immensely rewarding, can also be isolating and stressful. The constant demands of caregiving, coupled with societal expectations and the often unrealistic standards set by social media, can leave mothers feeling alone and overwhelmed.

Discovering activities or hobbies that alleviate stress becomes more than a mere diversion; it transforms into a vital strategy for offering a sense of fulfillment and personal achievement.

The Ultimate Act of Love

Embracing self-care as a fundamental part of life reinforces the idea that taking care of oneself is not an act of selfishness but an essential practice. It ensures that mothers can continue to provide the best care for their children and families. Selfcare empowers mothers to handle the demands of parenting with renewed energy and patience. It models healthy habits for children, teaching them the importance of balance, self-respect, and emotional well-being. In essence, finding an outlet for stress and combating isolation through self-care practices is a powerful declaration of a mother’s worth and an investment in her family’s happiness and health.

The emergence of the Muscle Mommy movement is more than just a trend; it represents a significant shift towards recognizing and honoring the multifaceted nature of motherhood. By combining the pursuit of physical strength with mental and emotional resilience, these mothers are redefining what it means to care for oneself while managing the challenges of parenting. They’re setting a powerful example, not only for their children but for society at large, by demonstrating that self-care and personal growth are not only compatible with motherhood but are essential to it. This movement is a testament to the strength that lies in balancing the demands of nurturing others with nurturing oneself. Through their actions, Muscle Mommies are paving the way for a healthier, more resilient generation, underscoring the undeniable truth that caring for oneself is the ultimate act of love for one’s family.

Memories of Mama

JUST A THOUGHT

by EDDIE LOWE

There are few bonds in life that compare to the bond of a mother and her child. In parenthood there is no instruction manual, and for anyone that thinks it easy, think again! A mother, however, has a God-given instinct. My mother was no different. She could read me and knew when I was sad or hurt. She would know even when I hid it from others. Her golden words to me were: “What’s wrong with my boy?” And, no matter my age, I

could pour my heart out and it seemed she knew already.

A MOTHER’S STRUGGLE

It has been said that a woman comes closer to death while birthing a child than at any other point in her life. Motherhood starts out as a struggle. Immediately after conception the struggle begins as her body changes in order to nurture — her body won’t ever be the same. And then there is the struggle of delivery. I was blessed to be bedside to see the birth of my children, and I’ve never felt more helpless. It was their mom who bore the pain and walked through the shadows of death to give them life.

As we read Genesis chapter four we see the ancestral mother of all start her journey of motherhood. I’d advise you read what happened in chapter three and you’ll see the plight that Eve had just come from. In chapter three, we see the first eviction notice served, and God himself issued it. Adam and Eve were told to leave the garden and where they began their family it seems nobody knows. I look at that from a parental perspective and that scares me! Imagine the struggle of beginning a family after you’d been evicted! If you read further in Genesis chapter four, you’ll see that Eve’s first child wasn’t exactly the model child. Tragedy befell them when the firstborn Cain

killed the second child Abel. Eve could truly say “the struggle is real!”

A MOTHER’S STRENGTH

When we read Genesis 4:25, we see the strength Eve had. God blessed them with Seth, which means “appointed.” Eve basically said, “God appointed me another child after Abel was killed.” There is such underlying power shown by Eve. We witness her moving on from a tragedy as we see her continue motherhood.

My mom was a strong woman with a heart of gold. She could be firm, but at the same time she would be fair. As a child, I didn’t

understand why she was tired all the time. In the evenings, she was there. At bedtime, she’d leave for work and when I got up, a sitter was there until around 4pm. As I grew older, I realized she worked at one hosiery mill on the third shift and another on the first shift. Not only was she working two jobs, but both jobs were boarding socks. To see mama’s strength, I’d ask you to look up that job. In later years, she’d tell me she did it all so we’d have a roof over our heads.

A MOTHER’S SHELTER

It is a known fact that a mother hen will cover her chicks in a downpour of hail to shelter them to the point of her death. When I was a boy I saw my mother’s love as a shelter. Even after becoming a man, I found as I talked to my mother that it was the one place I could “take off the cape” because it seemed the weight of being an adult required Superman strength.

A MOTHER’S SWAN SONG

The passing of my mother was no doubt the hardest moment of my life.

Folklore says that before a swan dies, it sings a most beautiful song. As my mother was passing, her wish was to have all her children under her roof once more. She passed one September evening, and her final wish came true. My sisters and I all came home, for we knew her time was near. One by one, we entered her room for our final visit and some last words. Upon entering her room, my mind flooded with childhood memories. Here lay the toughest woman I’d ever known, and cancer was about to take her. I longed to curl up in the bed with her as we spoke our final words. I was the only boy with three sisters so I was mama’s boy. Her final words were few, but she and I had an unspoken language. Just being together in silence, our hearts communed. After her burial, I’d go to her grave, sometimes at night. I’d caress her gravestone and speak to her. Sometimes, tears would flow and even now when I go, no words need be spoken, for a mother’s love transcends even death. Before her casket closed, I whispered to her, “I’ll see you on the other side.” And by God’s grace, I will.

Blake’s Take

BLAKE JOHNSON

Dear Blake,

Is it normal to have issues speaking in public or to a group of people? I have no trouble speaking to individuals one on one, but when there is an audience, I become a mess.

KEVIN PYLES, PT

Thanks,

- Anonymous Dear Anonymous,

Thank you for presenting your concern. I would not say this issue is normal, but I would say it is common. I believe few, if any, fears or phobias have the crippling power over the masses that the fear of public speaking does. Many studies suggest that the fear of public speaking is the most reported of all fears1 . If it is the most common fear, then it outranks society’s fear of death. Does that mean most of the population would rather die than speak in public? I think if this question were presented, most people would answer “no,” but it wouldn’t surprise me to have a few “yes” answers. That’s how powerful some fears and phobias can be.

I was shocked to learn in a public speaking class how prevalent this issue is and that many celebrities and gifted speakers also struggle. The good news is, with so many people sharing the same experiences, we get the benefit of abundant resources. There are

classes, books, seminars, webinars, websites, and local support groups dedicated to this subject. Even voicing your concern to random people can be helpful. Most are eager to share supportive tips.

Though I am not proficient in this arena, I am happy to share a few tricks that work for me. First, always research the subject. I’ve noticed that the more familiar I am with the material, the easier it is to speak about. Next, I find it easier when I make eye contact and look around the room. It seems counterintuitive, but feedback from the audience helps me focus on the task rather than my nervousness. Finally, just like anything else we want to master, we must practice. I always get a little nervous speaking, but the more I practice the easier it becomes. I feel like exposure is key to overcoming this fear.

My favorite story about overcoming this issue is in Exod. 4:10-15, (KJV) in the Old Testament. When God was preparing Moses to free the children of Israel,

1Ebrahimi, O. V., Pallesen, S., Kenter, R. M. F., & Nordgreen, T. (2019). Psychological interventions for the fear of public speaking: A meta-analysis. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 488-488. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00488

Moses complained about being a terrible speaker. God said, “Who hath made man’s mouth?” He then told Moses to go and, “I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.” Moses still begged God to get someone else. God let his brother Aaron go with him to speak, but Moses ultimately became the spokesman for the children of Israel. Moses had the ability all along. God just had to build his confidence.

Although most cases are manageable with advice and practice, some may be more serious. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the fear of performing or speaking in public can be associated with social anxiety disorder. In extreme cases, individuals will avoid social interactions altogether.

If you feel that your fear of public speaking is debilitating, or interferes with your daily life, I suggest seeking professional help. There are professional treatment options available for such cases.

In summary, this is a common issue, and there are plenty of ways to get help. Grab a book, talk to people you know who are good speakers, or find a local class or seminar to attend. Try out different tips and tricks to find what works best for you. I believe that, like Moses, we all have the ability, but we don’t become great without honing our skills. If you feel the issue is overwhelming, there is always professional help available.

Thank you for sharing, and I hope you found this response to be helpful.

Sincerely, Blake

S p e e c h T h e r a p y

NURTURING OURSELVES LIKE A MOTHER TO A CHILD:

THE POWER OF SELF-CARE

In the journey of life, the role of a mother is unparalleled. Mothers are known for their unconditional love, care, and nurturing nature toward their children. They provide support, guidance, and nourishment to help their children grow and thrive. Just as mothers nurture their children, it is essential for each of us to embrace the same level of care and attention toward ourselves. Self-nurturing, both physically and mentally, plays a crucial role in our overall well-being and development. In this article, we will explore how we can nurture ourselves, along with practical examples to incorporate self-care into our daily lives.

Physical Nurturing: Care for the Body

Mothers ensure that their children are well-fed, rested, and taken care of physically. Similarly, taking care of our physical well-being is vital for a healthy and balanced life. This includes following a nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular exercise. Just as a mother prepares a balanced meal for her child, we can nourish ourselves by consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Prioritizing sleep is also crucial for rejuvenating our bodies and minds. Adequate rest allows us to recharge and be more productive in our daily activities. Incorporating exercise into our routine not only benefits our physical health but also enhances our mood and overall well-being.

Practical Examples:

1. Meal Planning: Take time to plan and prepare nutritious meals for yourself.

2. Sleep Hygiene: Establish a bedtime routine and create a sleep-friendly environment to ensure quality rest.

3. Exercise Routine: Find an exercise activity that you enjoy and make it a regular part of your schedule.

KEVIN PYLES, PT

Mental Nurturing: Care for the Mind and Spirit

In addition to physical care, mothers also provide emotional support and nurture the mental well-being of their children. Similarly, nurturing our mental health is essential for a balanced and fulfilling life. This includes practicing self-compassion, managing stress, and seeking support when needed. Just as a mother offers comfort and encouragement to her child, we can show kindness and understanding to ourselves. Self-compassion involves treating ourselves with the same care and empathy that we would offer a loved one. Managing stress through mindfulness techniques, meditation, or relaxation exercises can help us stay grounded and focused through challenging situations. Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional is especially important in times of struggle.

Practical Examples:

1. Self-Compassion Practice: Practice self-kindness and self-acceptance by acknowledging your worth and embracing imperfections.

2. Stress Management: Engage in activities that help you relax and unwind, such as deep breathing exercises or yoga.

3. Seeking Support: Reach out to trusted individuals or professionals when feeling overwhelmed or in need of guidance.

It is essential for us to nurture ourselves both physically and mentally. By incorporating self-care practices into our daily lives, we can cultivate a sense of well-being, resilience, and inner strength. Remember, you deserve the same level of care and attention that you give to others. Embrace self-nurturing to honor and cherish yourself, just like a mother cherishes her child.

Kevin Pyles, Northern Rehab

BECAUSE WE KNOW YOU LOVE YOUR PETS

Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 8am to 6pm Fri. 8-5pm Sat. 8-11:30am

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Mom, What is for Dinner?

by CARMEN LONG with Simply Delicious

How many times have you heard, “Mom, what’s for dinner?” This was a very common question my children would ask when they were growing up. As a child, I can remember my mom saying, “If someone would just tell me what to cook, it would be so much easier.” At the time I really didn’t understand what she meant, but she was right. It would be easier to not have to make mealtime decisions. Hopefully these meal planning tips will make life a little less stressful and less expensive whether you are preparing meals for a family or just one or two.

MEAL PLANNING TIPS

1. MAKE A LIST

Make a list to avoid overspending or not getting all the ingredients you need at the grocery store. Monday through Friday tend to be our busiest time. Between work, school, extracurricular activities, and commutes, there’s very little time for stops at the grocery store to pick up one or two items. Plan easy meals that you can prep ahead for these busy times.

2. SET A TIMEFRAME

Decide on the length of time for which you’re planning meals. If you’re planning for the week, fresh produce may be the answer. If you’re planning for several weeks, you may need to consider canned and frozen items.

3. DECIDE ON A BUDGET

Don’t forget that even though we are discussing meal planning, non-grocery household items will still be part of your grocery store bill. Take these into consideration when estimating how much you will spend. If you are a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipient, include the available amount of food benefits in your budget.

4. TAKE AN INVENTORY

Taking inventory of the items you have on hand may reduce how much you will need to spend and will prevent purchasing duplicates. As you’re going through your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer, look at dates and the condition of items to make sure they’re still safe to eat and of good quality. Have trouble seeing the small date print? Use a permanent marker and write on the package the purchase date and use-by date. Organize your pantry for FIFO – first in, first out. Store items with earlier expiration or use-by dates in front of products with later dates and use those first.

5. BUY SALE AND IN-SEASON ITEMS

Check out weekly grocery ads to see what is on sale. Think about in-season fresh fruits and vegetables to help decide what you may want to include in your meal planning.

6. MAKE FAMILY FAVORITES OLD AND NEW

Include some of your family favorites in your rotation of recipes. This is also a perfect time to try something new. No need to eat the same old thing over and over. The possibilities are endless.

7. EXPLORE MYPLATE

MyPlate is a great meal planning tool to ensure your meals include items from each of the food groups. Need a snack? Pick something from a food group that you may not have had that day.

8. ASK FOR HELP

There is no rule that says the mom has to do all of the planning. Get input and suggestions from the rest of the family. Also include the family in preparation, cooking and clean-up. The valuable life skills and opportunity for communication among the family in the kitchen are as important as the food you create.

As we celebrate our mothers in May, take time to cook a meal together, eat a meal together, and make some wonderful memories! Try this recipe for Mushroom Beef Tacos. It may turn out to be a new family favorite.

Cooking time: 30 minutes

MUSHROOM BEEF TACOS

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups (approximately 8 ounces) white mushrooms

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons Homemade Taco Seasoning

• 4 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 pound ground beef (97% lean), cooked and well-drained

DIRECTIONS

1. Finely chop the mushrooms. This can be done in a food processor.

2. Cook the chopped mushrooms in a hot skillet over medium-high heat until well done and no moisture remains, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the mushrooms from the pan and set aside.

3. Heat the oil in the skillet and add the onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes stirring frequently.

4. Add the taco seasoning and the tomato paste. Stir to combine.

5. Add the cooked mushrooms and the cooked and well-drained hamburger.

6. Add a little water if needed for everything to be well combined. Serve on corn or whole wheat tortillas with shredded cabbage and lime wedges.

Cooking Hints: You can make a double batch as it freezes really well. If you prefer turkey or chicken tacos, you can substitute these for the beef.

TACO SEASONING

INGREDIENTS

• 1/3 cup chili powder

• 3 tablespoons paprika (you may want to use ½ smoked and ½ hot)

• 3 tablespoons ground cumin

• 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano (regular oregano works as well)

• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon cayenne (or to taste)

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine all ingredients and store in a plastic container.

GINGER MANGO SALSA

INGREDIENTS

• 1 mango, diced

• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

• 1 jalapeno, minced

• 2 teaspoons fresh mint, minced

• Juice from 1 lime (approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons)

• Pinch of salt

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Serve immediately, or chill until serving.

Sources: NCSU More in My Basket and MED Instead of MEDS

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

BLACKBERRY LIME TARTS

by RYNN HENNINGS

The Sweet and Savory Life

This Blackberry Lime Tart is cool and refreshing plus light and fluffy. Made with a shortbread crust that never gets soggy, this tart will satisfy a sweet tooth and wow your guests! It is easy to make and can be made into one large pie tart or about 8 mini tarts, the perfect choice for a mother’s day brunch.

This is one recipe that looks and tastes like it is chef-made. You will be surprised at how well the crust holds together after removing it from the tart pan. Plus, it stays crispy even after holding the filling and sitting in the refrigerator for a day or two – if the tarts last that long!

INGREDIENTS

Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup almond flour

• 1/3 cup powdered sugar

• 6 tablespoons butter, cubed

• Shortening for greasing pans

• 8 4-inch tart pans with removable bottoms

Filling

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened

• 2 teaspoons lime zest

• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice

• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• Blackberries for garnishing the tarts

• Edible flowers and mint leaves (optional)

Blackberry Sauce

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 cup fresh blackberries

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon water

DIRECTIONS

Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease 8 4-inch tart pans or a single 10-inch pan with removable bottom.

2. Place all the crust ingredients in a food processor and blend until the mixture is well mixed but coarse.

3. Divide the crust mixture between the tart pans. Then press the crust mixture firmly into the greased tart pans.

4. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until lightly browned.

5. Cool completely (approximately 30 minutes).

Filling

1. In a glass or metal bowl, beat the whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Then add the powdered sugar and beat to incorporate. Set aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese at medium speed until smooth.

3. Add lime zest, lime juice, and granulated sugar. Beat until blended well, scraping down sides of the mixing bowl.

4. Gently fold in the whipped cream until well blended with the cream cheese mixture.

5. Divide and place the cream cheese mixture into the cooled tart shells. Garnish with blackberries, edible flowers, and leaves.

6. Remove the tart rims before serving by holding the bottom of the pan and pulling down on the ring. The flat bottom can be removed by inserting a thin knife between the metal pan circle and the crust to separate the two.

Blackberry Sauce

1. Wash blackberries and drain. In a mini-chopper or blender, place the blackberries, water, and sugar. Blend until smooth. The seeds will still be present in the sauce.

2. Spoon the sauce over the tarts or spoon in a pattern on the side of the dessert plate and place the tart next to the sauce for serving.

SWEET AND SAVORY HINTS

• To keep the recipe easy and manageable, try preparing and baking the crust the day before. This gives the crust a chance to cool and also keeps the tasks short.

• In the absence of a food processor, you can use a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the dry crust

ingredients and mix well with your hands.

• Chill your mixing bowl before beating the whipped cream to ensure that it whips easily.

• If you like a sweeter blackberry sauce, increase the sugar to taste. However, the tart filling is sweet enough to compensate for a less sweet blackberry sauce.

For more recipes and entertaining and lifestyle hints, visit Rynn’s blog at thehouseofelynryn.com.

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But my dog can’t live in a bubble! How can I protect them?

Be certain that your pup is examined by a veterinarian at least once every year. A routine physical exam along with diagnostic testing performed at least once yearly is just as important for our pets as it is for us. Testing for heartworm infection takes only a small sample of blood and about 15 minutes to perform. The American Heartworm Society recommends that all dogs receive a heartworm preventive year-round and that all dogs are tested for heartworm disease every year.

Why do I need to retest if my dog has had no lapse in heartworm preventive coverage?

Just as in human medicine, animal drugs are not always 100 percent effective. While it is very rare, it can happen that a dog continually on a preventive might still develop a heartworm infection. Also, if a dog has an undiagnosed heartworm infection and is prescribed certain of the preventive medications, it can lead to the death of the dog. It is always best to err on the side of caution, especially when the testing procedure is fairly simple. Talk with your veterinarian about the proper testing schedule for your dog and the preventive medication that best fits your needs.

Uninvited Guests

by SARAH SOUTHARD, DVM

With the heat of summer bearing down, the insects are loving life! Butterflies are adding beauty to our landscapes. Bees and wasps are buzzing around, terrifying children and adults alike. Mosquitoes are plentiful and are silently feasting away on the red blood cells of unsuspecting mammals. They may also be leaving behind a not-so-nice gift for your pets.

Canine heartworm disease is a very serious, sometimes fatal disease that is widespread throughout the United States. Transmitted by infected mosquitoes, the microscopic infective larvae (an immature form of the parasite) continue their life cycle in the circulating blood of domestic dogs, where they mature into adult worms up to 12 inches long. These adult heartworms take up residence in the right atrium, the first chamber of the heart. As the infection progresses, heartworms may also occupy other chambers of the heart, the pulmonary arteries, and the lungs.

While the infection may be treatable, treatment for heartworm disease does not come without risks. Also, the damage that is done to the heart, lungs, and pulmonary arteries by the presence of the worms is permanent. Even after the worms are gone, scar tissue remains which decreases the ability of the heart and lungs to function as they should.

3

What should I do if my dog is diagnosed with

heartworm disease?

In the unfortunate event that your dog is diagnosed with heartworm disease, discuss the available treatment options with your veterinarian. Some require a period of hospitalization and monitoring. Others can be managed on an outpatient basis. All treatment options require strict adherence to the proper medication administration schedules and strict adherence to all recommended exercise restrictions for your pet. Follow-up testing will be needed periodically to determine when an infected dog is heartworm-free and is safe to switch to a routine heartworm preventive medication and schedule.

Ensuring that your canine family members receive proper heartworm testing and prevention on a proper schedule is one more way to protect their health and provide the best opportunity for a long and happy life!

DISCLAIMER

Surry Living does not provide medical or behavioral advice. The contents of this magazine, including text, graphics, images and other material, are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal healthcare provider with any questions that you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read in Surry Living Magazine.

Hometown Heroes

Q & A

What can fly forward, backward, sideways, and upside-down while its wings beat 70 times per second (and 200 times per second when diving)?

If you guessed a hummingbird, you are correct! These tiny birds weigh in between 2 and 20 grams and, in my opinion, are one of nature’s greatest wonders. Hummingbirds spend their winters in southern Mexico and head back to North Carolina in the spring. Some early hummers may arrive in the middle of March, but they are more commonly expected in April in our area of the state.

FUN FACTS

1. Hummingbirds migrate alone, generally following the same path they have flown before. They fly during the day when flowers are plentiful and nectar is available, staying low so they can see food supplies easily and stop as needed.

2. The journey back to North Carolina is long and challenging. Before beginning their trek, they gain 25-40 percent of their body weight to support the energy needed for the journey.

3. They can travel as many as 23 miles in a single day while their average speed in direct flight fluctuates between 20 and 30 mph.

Hummingbirds NATURE’S WONDER

by JOANNA RADFORD

If you have not seen a hummer this season, be on the lookout. It is just a matter of time. There are a few things you can do to entice hummingbirds to visit you:

HUMMINGBIRD FEEDER

Hummingbird feeders are effective in attracting and feeding the hummers. Hummingbirds are attracted to red objects, so select a feeder with red nectar ports. If your feeder does not have red ports, apply red tape to the feeder openings. Do not use red food coloring in the sugar solution. It could harm the hummers.

Fill your feeder with an easy sugar water mixture. You will need to use a 4:1 mixture of water and white granulated sugar. You do not want to use anything but white, granulated sugar. Spoilage may occur when honey, brown sugar, fruit juice, or red dye is used in the

feeders. This potentially could harm the hummingbirds. Stir the sugar in hot tap water and dissolve completely. After the solution cools, pour it into the feeder. The unused portion can be stored in the refrigerator.

Avoid using insect sprays, repellents, or pesticides on or around hummingbird feeders. A trick to deter stinging insects or ants attracted to the sugar solution is to apply petroleum jelly on the wire from which the feeder hangs.

Place feeders near blossoms where hummingbirds already feed. Clean feeders at least once each week with a hot water and vinegar solution instead of soap.

PLANT NATIVE FLOWERS

By promoting native plants that are beneficial to hummingbirds, you can ensure food is available to attract these nectar seekers. No matter the size of the area, you can provide nectar sources to attract the hummingbirds.

Hummers eat twice their weight every day in nectar and flying insects. They feed by sight on regularly followed routes, which by the way, is called traplining. If your feeder is outside, they will find it. Once they do, they can be led to investigate other possible sources of food nearby. If you select your plants with a purpose and plan carefully, you can have varied flowering dates throughout the season.

NC State University has a list of plants preferred by hummingbirds. Plants included on that list are:

Trees

• red buckeye

• yellow buckeye

• hawthorn

• yellow-poplar

Shrubs

• buttonbush

• mountain laurel

• rhododendron

• sweet pepperbush

• wild azalea

Vines

• crossvine

• Carolina jessamine

• coral honeysuckle

• trumpet vine Flowers

• beebalm

• blue lobelia

• blue phlox

• cardinal flower

• columbine

• crested iris

• fire pink

• horsemint

• jewelweed

• rose mallow,

• smooth beardtongue

• sundrops

• wild bergamot

• yellow thistle

Plant gardens in protected spots next to a fence or building to minimize the effects of the wind. Include trees and shrubs in your landscape. Hummingbirds use the branches for perching and nesting.

HUMMINGBIRD TRIVIA

Once you have put into place all these nifty tips, sit back, and enjoy your hummingbirds. Here is some trivia for you to think about while watching the little critters zing to and fro.

1. Did you know hummingbirds can see and hear better than humans? But they cannot taste much at all. A hummingbird’s tongue is grooved similar in shape to a “W”. Their tongue is designed this way to help them lap up nectar.

2. The coloring on hummingbirds comes from prism-like cells within the top layer of feathers, not from pigmentation.

3. It is the female hummingbird who picks their mate, not the male!

4. In general, the males appear more colorful than the female hummers. This helps attract the female to the male. The somewhat boring coloring of a female helps to camouflage her. This is especially helpful when she is sitting on a nest of eggs.

5. And are you wondering how many feathers a hummingbird has? 940 feathers are on an average size hummer. Now that is something to make us all go “hmm”!

My wish to you is that you enjoy the hummingbirds all summer!

Email:

Josh and Amy Snow

Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense

by DERINA PYLES

“Hay-Woman, quick, get over here with my alfalfa. My belly button is starting to gnaw on my backbone.”

Shaking my head, I turned toward my dappled grey friend. “Traveler, you don’t have a belly button so that’s not even theoretically possible.”

“Well, if I did have one, I’m sure it would feel like my stomach does right now.” We both giggled as I served up his usual portion. I lingered in his stall, enjoying the sound of him munching on the sweet hay.

“Did you see that new roan horse that your neighbor has in for training?” he asked between bites. “She looks handier than a shirt pocket. And what about that other bay horse of his? He knows more about a cow than a bull does.”

“Oh geez, Traveler, you have obviously been spending way too much time around those cowboys next door. How many more one-liners ya got? Go ahead and get them all out.”

“I think that’s all for now,” he said proudly. He abruptly changed the subject, knowing I would limit his turnout time in the pasture that boarded my neighbor’s ranch if the one-liners kept coming. “Remember a few years ago when your neighbor had that nice cutting mare?”

“I do remember, she was a beautiful, talented horse. She won a lot of money in the show pen.”

“Do you remember she foaled a filly one spring that looked just like her? I loved seeing them together frolicking in the pasture.” Travelers eyes softened. “That little filly would just kick up her heels at that mama, jump on her, run around her all day long. You know, I never saw the mama get angry with her. She would just gently nudge her away. The only time I ever saw her get riled up at that baby was when she was too close to the electric fence. That baby couldn’t resist the sweet grass on the other side. I wanted to warn that little filly, but heard your voice in my head telling me not to stick my nose in. One day, after about a week of trying to keep her away from the fence, I saw that mama simply watch as she pranced over and stuck her head, once again, under the fence. Well, wouldn’t you know it, she got too close and BAM! She got shocked She must have jumped twenty feet sideways, hollering the whole time, till she got back to her mama. The mama stood there and wrapped her head around that baby until she settled back down. I never knew why that mama let her hurt herself, but I never saw her do it again. Funny, about a month later, the filly was gone. I’ve always wondered what happened. Do you think it was because of that accident?”

Somewhat surprised at this memory, I carefully explained. “Oh no, Traveler, not at all. That filly went off to train to be a show horse herself. That’s why she left the ranch. I’m sure it was hard on the mama, and she didn’t want her baby to be hurt, but after being warned time and again, she had to let her figure it out herself. Unfortunately, that meant a lesson with a few tears. That mare was an excellent mother, nurturing her child without coddling her.”

“That is such a relief Hay-Woman.” Pondering his next question carefully, he said, “Do you think Jesus was taught lessons like this by his mother, Mary?”

“When I think of Mary, I always remember the verse Luke 2:19, ‘But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.’ I believe all mothers worry if they are making the right decisions for their children. The only path is to keep Jesus’ teachings in mind and follow our hearts.”

He looked content and lowered his head to the ground. Sticking out his lips, he began to search for any scraps of hay he may have missed earlier.

“I always enjoy our heart-to-hearts, Traveler…and it beats listening to anymore of your cowboy one-liners.”

MOUNT AIRY

Thursday, May 2, 2024 | 7:30 pm

The Embers featuring Craig Woolard*

Every Thurs. in May | 6:00 pm

Reader’s Theatre

218 Rockford St, Mount Airy, NC 27030

Every Fri. in May | 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Surry County Farmers Market

111 S Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030

Friday, May 3, 2024 | 7:30 pm

The Magnificents Band*

Saturday, May 4, 2024 | 12:00 pm

Budbreak Wine & Craft Beer Festival

190 Virginia St, Mount Airy, NC 27030

Thursday, May 9, 2024 | 7:30 pm

Liquid Pleasure*

Friday, May 10, 2024 | 7:30 pm

Special Occasion Band*

Saturday, May 11, 2024 | 7:30 pm

Phatt City*

Thursday, May 16, 2024 | 7:30 pm

Band of Oz*

Friday, May 17, 2024 | 6:00 pm

Mayberry Farm Fest Tractor Parade

190 Virginia St, Mount Airy, NC 27030

Friday, May 17, 2024 | 7:30 pm

The Legacy Motown Revue*

Saturday, May 18, 2024 | 9:00 am

Mayberry Farm Festival

190 Virginia St, Mount Airy, NC 27030

Saturday, May 18, 2024 | 7:30 pm

The Entertainers*

Thursday, May 23, 2024 | 7:30 pm

The Main Event Band*

Friday, May 24, 2024 | 7:30 pm

Cassette Rewind*

Saturday, May 25, 2024 | 7:30 pm

Cat5 Band*

Summer Concerts Series Location*

Blackmon Amphitheatre

231 Spring St, Mount Airy, NC 207030

Every Tues. in May | 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Surry County Farmers Market 903 E Atkins St, Dobson, NC 27017

ELKIN

Every Friday in May | 10:00 am

Tiny Tots Story Time

111 N Front St, Elkin, NC 28621

Storytime is 10:00 am to 11:00 am

Preschool storytime starts at 11:00 am

Every Wed. in May | 7:00 pm

Reeves Open Mic & Songwriter Showcase 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

Every Sat. in May | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Elkin Farmers Market 101 W Market St, Elkin, NC 28621

Every Sat. in May | 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Live Music 106 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

Every Sat. in May | 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Haunted Elkin Trail 113 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

Saturday, May 4, 2024 | 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

Every Sun. in May | 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Brunch at Southern on Main 102 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

Every Mon. in May | 9:00 am - 10:00 am

Therapeutic Yoga 122 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

Thursday, May 9, 2024 | 6:30 am - 8:30 pm

Night Trivia 222 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

Friday, May 10, 2024 | 11:00 am - 8:00 pm

Food Truck Fridays 101 E Market St, Elkin, NC 28621

Saturday, May 11, 2024 | 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Mother’s Day Brunch & Bouquets 339 Benham Church Rd, Elkin, NC 28621

PILOT MOUNTAIN

Saturday, May 4, 2024 | 3:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Hot Nights, Hot Cars Cruise-in 124 W Main St, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041