March 2026 Issue

75 years of keeping Surry County connected. FEATURING

Dr. Leah & Dr. Doug Yarboro DPT, CWS

Weekly provider evaluation

PCR testing on wounds

Renew Wound Care Center provides evidence-based wound care, allowing patients suffering from wounds to receive treatment in a professional and supportive environment. Our comprehensive care plan is centered on patients with complex, non-healing, or slow-to-heal wounds. We provide advanced wound care and therapies aiming for faster healing times, lower infection rates, and reduced readmissions.

Coordination of care, including advanced imaging and testing

Wound debridement/ advanced wound irrigation

Ultrasonic debridement

UltraMIST Therapy

V-254 UVC Lamp

Advanced wound dressings

Cellular/ tissue-based product application

Pressure off-loading devices

Negative pressure wound therapy

Publisher: Kevin Pyles

Executive Editor: Derina Pyles

Director: Sabrina Lee Baker

Associate Editor: Veronica Green-Gott

Creative Director: Josh Snow

Graphic Designer: Sabrina Lee Baker

Contributors: Listed on Pages 4-5

Photographers: Sabrina Lee Baker, Natalie Snow & Sybil Slate

Sales: ads@surryliving.com

Sabrina L. Baker

Sabrina hails from Tobaccoville, NC. The 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.

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.

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 through 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.

Contributors

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 a 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.

Kage Pyles

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.

Kage Pyles, a professional Jiu Jitsu athlete from Westfield, NC, is known for his powerful presence on the mats and his dedication to strength training. With a relentless work ethic and disciplined mindset, Kage brings intensity and precision to every match. Off the mats, he’s passionate about sharing his knowledge to help others grow stronger, both physically and mentally. Starting in May 2025, readers can catch his insights in each issue of Surry Living magazine.

Contributors

Joanna Radford Larry VanHoose

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.

Josh Snow

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 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.

Surry Communications Connecting Community Through Innovation and Local Commitment

Since 1951, Surry Communications has played a vital role in keeping neighbors, families, and businesses connected across Surry County. What began as a mission to bring reliable communication services to rural communities has grown into a forward-thinking organization focused on advanced fiber technology while maintaining the same personal service that defined its early years.

From the beginning, the vision behind Surry Communications was simple but meaningful. At a time when many larger providers overlooked rural areas, the company worked to ensure local residents had access to dependable communication services. More than seven decades later, that same purpose continues to guide the company’s growth.

Richie Parker shared that being locally owned carries a deeper meaning for the team. “We live, work, and raise our families here, which means our responsibility to this community goes far beyond providing a service.” Decisions are made by people who understand the needs of the area firsthand, creating a sense of pride and accountability that extends well beyond technology.

While the tools and platforms have evolved dramatically over the years, the company’s focus on customer care has remained constant. What began with traditional telephone services has expanded into advanced broadband and fiber connectivity, helping residents and businesses stay connected in ways that were once unimaginable. Parker noted that customers are never viewed as numbers, explaining that “our customers are not just accounts. They are our neighbors,” a philosophy that continues to shape how the company approaches service every day.

Reliable internet access has become essential to daily life, particularly in rural areas. For families, connectivity supports education, communication, and access to important resources. For businesses, it creates opportunities to grow and compete in an increasingly digital world. Healthcare providers now rely on strong networks to offer telehealth services, allowing patients to receive care without traveling long distances.

Surry Communications continues to invest in modern infrastructure, proactive maintenance, and local expertise to ensure dependable service, with a local team monitoring the network closely and responding quickly when challenges arise.

The expansion of fiber internet has transformed how people live and work throughout Surry County. Faster and more reliable connections have supported the growth of remote work, strengthened online learning opportunities for students, and improved access to essential services such as telehealth.

As fiber construction continues to expand, Surry Communications remains focused on reaching areas that have historically struggled with slow or limited internet access. Through careful planning and strategic investment, the organization continues to adopt new technology while keeping service affordable for local families and businesses.

Reliable connectivity also plays a significant role in the success of small businesses, healthcare providers, and educational institutions. By delivering high speed internet and dependable service, Surry Communications helps local entrepreneurs grow, supports remote work opportunities, and contributes to the overall economic health of the community.

One powerful example of the company’s dedication came during a recent winter storm when a concerned daughter struggled to reach her ninety-year-old father who lives alone outside Pilot Mountain. After contacting customer service, the

Surry Communications team quickly identified a fiber issue and dispatched a technician despite difficult road conditions. Within minutes of arriving, service was restored, allowing the family to reconnect during a stressful time.

Experiences like this highlight what Parker described as the heart of their mission, noting that reliable connection is not only about technology but about people being able to reach the ones they love.

Customers calling Surry Communications can expect friendly, knowledgeable support from local professionals who understand the area and its needs. Having a team based in the community builds trust and accountability, creating relationships that go beyond a typical service provider.

This dedication extends into community involvement as well. Each year, Surry Communications supports local events, schools, and organizations while organizing food and toy drives that benefit families in need. During festivals and large gatherings, the company deploys a mobile fiber connectivity unit to enhance network capacity and provide improved bandwidth for attendees.

A recent partnership with the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce, Mount Airy Tourism Development Authority, Mount Airy Downtown, Inc., and the City of Mount Airy introduced a Calix SmartTown Wi Fi network, allowing residents and visitors to access reliable wireless internet during everyday activities and major events such as Mayberry Days and the Autumn Leaves Festival.

Looking ahead, Surry Communications remains focused on expanding fiber infrastructure and exploring new ways to serve the community. Continued investment in connectivity will open doors for residents, businesses, and future generations, ensuring that Surry County remains connected to opportunity.

For those considering a local provider, Parker emphasized that choosing Surry Communications means choosing reliability, personal service, and a company that reinvests in the community it serves.

By blending innovation with local commitment, Surry Communications continues to strengthen the bonds that keep Surry County connected.

As the organization celebrates its 75th anniversary, this legacy of service, innovation, and community commitment continues to shape its vision for the future.

by Sabrina Lee Baker

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

with Kevin Pyles

Where Luck Meets the Work

March is one of those months that feels like a turning point. Winter starts to loosen its grip, the days stretch a little longer, and there’s a sense that something new is just around the corner.

It’s the perfect time to reflect on three powerful forces that shape our lives more than we often realize: luck, grit, and growth. People talk a lot about luck. You’ll hear someone say, “They’re just lucky,” as if success simply falls into certain people’s laps. But if you spend enough time around high performers, whether in business, athletics, or life, you start to notice something different. What looks like luck from the outside is usually the result of preparation meeting opportunity.

In jiu jitsu, I’ve seen this countless times. A student hits a beautiful technique during a match, and someone watching might say they got lucky. But what they didn’t see were the hundreds of repetitions, the early mornings, the moments of frustration, and the quiet decision to keep showing up. Luck has a funny way of finding people who are willing to do the work.

That’s where grit comes in.

Grit is the ability to keep moving forward when things aren’t easy, when progress feels slow, or when you’re tempted to quit. It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t always feel exciting. Most of the time, grit looks like consistency. It’s getting up when you’d rather sleep in. It’s sticking with a goal when the results aren’t immediate. It’s choosing discipline over comfort, again and again.

I’ve learned over the years that grit is often the deciding factor between people who dream and people who grow. Talent matters, opportunity matters, but the willingness to stay the course when things get hard is what truly separates the two. And if you stay in the game long enough, grit leads to growth.

Growth rarely happens in big, dramatic moments. More often, it’s subtle. It shows up in small improvements, better decisions, stronger relationships, and a deeper sense of confidence. Sometimes you don’t even notice how far you’ve come until you look back and realize the challenges that once felt overwhelming are now just part of your story.

In training, growth might look like surviving a tough round that used to leave you exhausted. In business, it might mean handling a setback with a clearer mind and steadier perspective. In life, it often means becoming more patient, more resilient, and more grounded in who you are.

The truth is, luck may open a door, but grit is what gets you through it, and growth is what happens when you decide to keep walking forward.

As we move into spring, it’s a good time to ask yourself a simple question: Where can I lean in a little more? Maybe it’s recommitting to a goal you’ve set aside. Maybe it’s trying something new. Or maybe it’s simply deciding to show up more fully in the areas of life that matter most.

You don’t need perfect timing or perfect circumstances to move forward. You just need the willingness to take the next step.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned between rounds, it’s that progress isn’t about being the most talented person in the room. It’s about being the one who keeps showing up, keeps learning, and keeps growing.

Here’s to a season of new opportunities, steady effort, and the kind of growth that only comes from staying in the fight.

Kevin Pyles

Quote of the Month:

“Grit grows where comfort ends.”

—

Unknown

Dear Blake,

Blake’s Take

BLAKE JOHNSON

Have you ever noticed people around you suddenly exhibiting vile characteristics? I’ve recently started feeling this way about some of my longtime friends. I’m not sure if I am changing, they are changing, or just the culture around us is changing. Regardless, I want to know if you think it’s worth holding on to long-time friendships even if their interests and behaviors become repulsive.

KEVIN PYLES, PT

Thanks,

Anonymous

Great question! I have experienced this and I feel like most of us face all these changes at different phases across the lifespan. I feel like we add and prune relationships based on support for those changes which make longterm relationships rare. I think we naturally become closer to those who are like-minded and distant from those who are not.

I can remember feeling like I had hundreds of friends by the time I reached middle school. Although many were just acquaintances they felt like more because we shared so many common interests. We were all the same age, we all had the same classes, we were all into the same fads, and a lot of us participated in the same activities. This feeling seemed to last through high school but the day I graduated something changed. Entering the workforce, I no longer saw the

same people every day, I worked with people of different ages, and the people around me no longer shared the same interests and activities. The transition forced me to reevaluate what is important to me and in the process revealed who I wanted to spend time with. Time is limited and unfortunately creating our own path requires letting go of some contrasting relationships.

It seems like you may be in a transition yourself. It might be time to reflect on the things that are important to you. Focus on who you are, who you want to be, and what characteristics are important to you. These are your values. Once you understand them it’s easier to recognize beneficial and toxic relationships. Ultimately you gravitate to people with common interests but it’s also okay to have friends who differ. What

you don’t want is to put time and effort into friendships that counteract the progression of who you want to be. You should never allow the negative characteristics of others to contaminate your life. “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed” (Prov 13:20). Toxic relationships are destructive.

It doesn’t really matter if friends change, you change, or your environment changes. Change is expected. What matters is how your friends affect who you are. If you’re happy with your direction and the people around you, long-term friendships are awesome. When friends start to negatively impact your life, it’s time to cut ties and move on. Quality of friendships far outweigh longevity.

Products & Education

When you use terms like vile and repulsive to describe long-term friends, I think you may be telling yourself that these people no longer meet your personal standards. Listen to your gut. Don’t sacrifice your values to maintain longterm friendships with people you find vile and repulsive.

I hope this helps and you’re able to maintain friendships that are wholesome and supportive of the things you’re passionate about.

Sincerely,

Blake

By Gosh! BY JOSH

Ararat, North Carolina: A Quiet Community with Deep Roots

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ararat, North Carolina is a small, unincorporated community in Surry County with a history that reflects both the natural beauty of the region and the patterns of settlement and transportation that shaped rural North Carolina. Though often overshadowed by larger nearby towns like Mount Airy, Ararat’s past is intertwined with indigenous heritage, early European settlement, the rise of railroads, and the enduring significance of its waterways.

Origins of the Land and Name

Long before European settlers arrived, the area around what would become Ararat was part of a landscape rich with Native American history. Archaeological surveys along the Ararat River indicate that Paleo-Indian and later Archaic peoples occupied parts of the river valley thousands of years ago, drawn by abundant resources for hunting and gathering. These prehistoric inhabitants laid the earliest known human foundations in the region.

The name Ararat itself is closely tied to the Ararat River, a tributary of the Yadkin River that flows through the community. The name was adopted from earlier European mapping traditions in the region, likely inspired by the biblical Mount Ararat, when early maps labeled prominent features in the upper Yadkin watershed with familiar Old World names.

Frontiers and Settlement

By the eighteenth century, the broader area that includes Ararat was being contested and settled by various groups. Surry County, established in 1771 from part of Rowan County, was populated initially by Native American tribes such as the Saura and Cherokee and later by European settlers, many of whom migrated from Virginia in search of fertile land and waterways for farming. The landscape of rolling foothills, forests, and rivers made it attractive to farmers, hunters, and loggers seeking opportunities on the edge of the frontier.

Community Takes Shape

Unlike incorporated towns with formal governance, Ararat developed more organically as part of Long Hill Township within Surry County. Its growth was anchored by community institutions rather than municipal structures. Central to the social fabric were local churches and civic services such as the post office and fire department, which became focal points for residents of the loosely defined area.

Religious life has played a significant role in shaping community identity. For example, the Ararat Friends Meeting was established in 1924 by Quakers seeking a monthly gathering place for worship and fellowship. Over the decades, it became an enduring spiritual home for many in the area, reflecting the modest yet resilient nature of community life in rural North Carolina.

Railroads and Economic Connections

One of the key events influencing Ararat’s development was the arrival of the Atlantic and Yadkin Railway in the late nineteenth century. This railroad line connected Mount Airy with Rural Hall and passed through Ararat, linking the community to broader commercial networks. Though the Atlantic and Yadkin Railway company itself operated only from 1899 to 1950, segments of its line continue to serve freight operations today under the Yadkin Valley Railroad, maintaining a physical reminder of Ararat’s connection to the region’s economic history.

The railroad’s presence allowed the movement of goods and people in ways previously unimaginable for such a rural setting. While Ararat never became a bustling rail town, the line influenced settlement patterns and helped anchor the community within the economic rhythms of Surry County and the Piedmont region.

Modern Day and Legacy

Today, Ararat remains a quiet, unincorporated community with a population of just over a thousand people, according to past census estimates. Residents enjoy the natural surroundings, especially the Ararat River, which not only gave the community its name but remains a cherished environmental feature stocked with trout and celebrated for recreation.

While much of Ararat’s early history is woven into larger county narratives, the community’s story highlights the way small settlements in rural America developed over centuries, shaped by geography, enriched by diverse cultural influences, and connected to the wider world through transportation and commerce. It stands today as a testament to the quieter but no less meaningful threads of local history that form the tapestry of North Carolina’s past.

by Josh Snow

Hometown Heroes

The Holistic Path to Fitness:

Body, Mind, and Spirit

Grit is not flashy.

It does not announce itself.

It does not show up on the days when motivation is high and everything feels easy.

Grit shows up when you do not feel like it.

Most people think grit is about intensity. They picture heavy weights, loud music, and nonstop energy. But real grit looks much quieter than that. It looks like waking up tired and still choosing to move. It looks like showing up when progress feels slow. It looks like staying consistent long after the excitement has faded.

Anyone can train when they feel motivated. Very few can train when they feel worn down.

That is where grit lives.

Grit is not about perfection. It is about persistence. It is choosing to keep going even when results are not immediate and recognition is nonexistent. It is understanding that strength is built over time through thousands of small decisions that most people never see.

In fitness, we often want fast results. We want the scale to move quickly. We want visible change. But the truth is that the body responds best to patience and discipline. Progress rarely happens all at once. It happens quietly. Slowly. Repeatedly.

The strongest people in the gym are not always the ones lifting the most weight. They are the ones who keep coming back. Week after week. Month after month. Year after year.

Grit is built when you train on ordinary days.

It is built when you finish a workout you almost skipped.

When you choose water instead of sugar.

When you stretch even though you want to leave early.

When you rest properly instead of pushing recklessly.

Those choices may not feel heroic in the moment, but they shape who you become.

Grit also means knowing when to slow down. Real discipline is not punishment. It is stewardship. Taking care of your body is not weakness. It is respect. You only get one body, and treating it well is part of becoming stronger, not softer.

Fitness is not about chasing perfection. It is about building resilience. Physical strength teaches mental strength. When you learn to push through discomfort in the gym, you begin to handle life’s challenges differently. You gain confidence. You gain clarity. You gain control.

That is the real reward.

March is a season of transition. Winter is letting go. Spring is preparing to arrive. It is a reminder that growth often happens beneath the surface long before it becomes visible. Your body works the same way.

Stay consistent.

Stay patient.

Stay gritty.

Because grit is not about how hard you start. It is about how long you are willing to keep going.

by Kage Pyles

by Eddie Lowe

Consider the lilies

As we get older, I’ve noticed that the smallest things often bring the greatest sense of peace. Take, for instance, the flowering bushes that bloom earliest each year. The redbud tree is a perfect example. This modest tree can be spotted along the highways of Surry County, its beautiful red blooms appearing in early spring. The redbud seems to be one of the first to arrive. Otherwise, this unassuming little tree fades quietly into the background for the rest of the year after its blooms fall and leaves emerge. Yet for a brief moment, it feels as though God has commissioned the redbud to announce that spring has arrived.

Another favorite of mine is the border forsythia, or as many of us country folks call it, the “candlestick bush.” While the redbud signals spring in the woods, the candlestick bush proclaims spring in our yards. With its bright golden blooms opening alongside the first signs of spring flora, it has always been a favorite. We have one just outside our bedroom window, and as the days grow longer, I find myself peeking through the blinds for a little “report” on whether spring is drawing near.

It is remarkable that Scripture reminds us even King Solomon could not match the beauty of the lilies. Take time to notice the flowers when they bloom, and you will see God’s handiwork on full display.

March is often an unpredictable month, as though spring must struggle to break through winter’s grip. An interesting study is the old phrase “Old Man Winter.” Many generations have used this saying to describe the season, but its origins trace back to Greek mythology. The Greeks believed each season was controlled by a god, with winter ruled by Boreas, the god of the north wind. He was depicted as an elder figure with icy hands and a frosty breath. The character Jack Frost shares a similar origin. According to legend, winter could only be defeated by Flora, the goddess who brought warmth, flowers, and sunshine.

Of course, we understand the changing seasons differently today, but these images still resonate, especially during the gray days of winter when we begin to long for spring’s return. What flowers, shrubs, or trees bring you joy? What signals to you that spring has arrived? Perhaps a visit to a local greenhouse would do your heart good.

I hope this season finds you happy and blessed.

SURRY SEEN

Speedway to Healthy Races into Surry County

On March 17, 18, and 19, students will have the opportunity to take part in a racing adventure through Speedway to Healthy, a 1,200-square-foot walk-through exhibit located in the Surry County Service Center Training Room. Students from each elementary school will begin at the starting line, where each child receives a food sticker before beginning their journey.

Students travel through the body pretending to be molecules from foods found in the MyPlate food groups. Racers visit 11 “pit stops” along the way, beginning at the brain and moving through the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, heart, lungs, kidneys, bones, and muscles before exiting through the skin. Each pit stop, staffed by volunteers, features fun educational activities focused on making healthy lifestyle choices.

Speedway to Healthy replicates the interior of the human body while teaching children about how their bodies interact with food. Created by Cooperative Extension specialists at North Carolina A&T State University, the program equips youth with research-based learning and outreach in a fun and engaging way that encourages lifelong healthy habits.

Getting Your Day Off to a Winning Start

Eating breakfast first thing in the morning before heading to school or work can sometimes be a challenge. The goal is to include at least three food groups to fuel your day.

A popular breakfast option is pancakes. They are easy to prepare and can be topped with a variety of fruits or other toppings to suit your family’s tastes. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen and reheated in the microwave or toaster for a quick breakfast or snack. Pancakes can also be used as part of a breakfast sandwich or wrap. Try topping a pancake with peanut butter and wrapping it around a banana with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a quick breakfast on the go.

There’s also no need to eat the same cereal every day. Try planning ahead with these breakfast combinations, all of which include foods from three food groups to make your morning meal nutritious and delicious.

• Yogurt parfait layered with yogurt, fruit, nuts, and/or granola

• Peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a piece of fruit

• Egg and cheese sandwich

• Oatmeal topped with fruit and nuts

• Crackers and cheese with a piece of fruit

• Granola bar, banana, and milk

• Frozen waffles or pancakes topped with peanut butter and fruit

• Scrambled eggs wrapped in a tortilla and topped with cheese

• Egg sandwich with spinach and cheese

Try an Egg and Cheese Wrap for a versatile breakfast option. Add any vegetables or meats you have on hand to make it even more flavorful. Check food labels on wraps to find one that best meets your needs and top with your favorite cheese.

Egg and Cheese Wrap

Makes 1 serving

INGREDIENTS

• 1 whole wheat flour tortilla (warm)

• ¼ ripe avocado

• 2 tablespoons tomatoes (diced), or other vegetables if desired

• 1 large egg (scrambled)

• 1 ounce Swiss cheese (low-fat), or cheese of your choice

• Freshly ground pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add diced tomatoes and any additional vegetables and cook for about 1 minute, or until desired doneness.

3. Add egg to the skillet and stir until thoroughly cooked. Season with black pepper.

4. Spread avocado in the center of the tortilla. Place egg mixture on top of avocado and sprinkle with cheese.

5. Fold tortilla burrito-style and slice in half.

by CARMEN LONG

Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense

The winter was shaping up to be one of the wettest of the last few years. Because of this, Traveler and I were confined to the covered riding arena every day. I could tell he was getting bored, and we were falling into a riding rut. We were both getting frustrated, and I had slipped into a bad habit of micromanaging his every move. After our last training session had ended in an argument, I knew we had to regroup, rethink, and restart.

“Hey, Hay-Woman, what’s the plan for today? Walk, trot, lope, then more walk, trot, lope, maybe throw in a spin or two, then more walk, lope?” He didn’t attempt to hide the sarcasm in his voice.

“Nope! Not today. We are changing it up!” His head shot up from the ground where he was dragging it to look as pitiful as possible. “Do you remember when I came back from my last clinic and told you I had learned some new tricks? I literally meant that. We learned to lie down, bow, and sit.”

“Sounds like you wasted your money. How hard is it for a human to lie down, bow, and sit? Furthermore, why were they teaching you that at a clinic for horses?”

I burst out laughing. Soon I was snorting, which made Traveler cackle. This went on for several side-splitting minutes as we kept it going laughing at each other.

“Wait, what are we laughing at?” He asked, confused.

I caught my breath and answered, “You nut, at the clinic, I learned to teach YOU how to lie down, bow, and sit. I was thinking, since we have been so bored and penned up in the arena, this will be a great time to learn those.”

“Oh.” His mood changed abruptly.

“What’s wrong? I thought you would be excited to learn something new.”

“Well, let me think about it,” he stammered.

“This isn’t like you, Traveler. You always enjoy learning new things. Plus, it looks so cool! You’ll be the envy of every horse in the barn,” I said, trying to assure him. His big brown eyes looked at me intently.

“I know, and I want to learn them, I really do, Hay-Woman.” He chose his words carefully and I could tell he was nervous about what he was going to say next. “Those tricks require a lot of,” he paused, “trust.”

“For sure they do!” My agreement set him at ease and he took a long, deep sigh. “Let’s make a pact. We will go slow, step-by-step until you are comfortable, before we move on. I take very seriously your trust in me. Some parts will be scary, but we will do it together!” Traveler looked thoughtful and I knew he was thinking of the perfect Bible verse.

“Psalm 56:3 says, ‘What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.’” I felt so blessed at that moment. “I love you, Traveler, more than you’ll ever know. Now let’s get to work so you can show off those new skills come spring.”

by DERINA PYLES

Luck, Grit, and Growth:

Creating a Clover Lawn That Works with Nature

Finding a four leaf clover may feel like luck, but building a successful clover lawn in North Carolina is much more about grit and growth. As interest continues to rise in pollinator friendly and lower input landscapes, many homeowners are turning to clover as an alternative or supplement to traditional turfgrass. Clover lawns succeed best when expectations are realistic and management works with nature rather than against our climate.

Clover has many advantages. It flowers readily and provides valuable nectar for bees and other pollinators. It can also add nitrogen to the soil, reducing the need for fertilizer. Because of these benefits, many people are looking for ways to incorporate more clover around their homes. What often needs clarification is how much clover is reasonable to expect in a lawn setting.

Clover performs best when mixed into existing lawn areas rather than planted as the sole groundcover. North Carolina’s climate supports a wide range of plants for most of the year, which makes maintaining any single species lawn especially difficult. A clover lawn in practice will also include turfgrasses and other low growing plants, and that diversity is not a drawback. In fact, for a lawn intended to be low maintenance and supportive of pollinators, it is entirely appropriate. Trying to force uniformity through added inputs such as fertilizers herbicides or excessive irrigation often undermines the environmental benefits people hope to achieve.

Not all clovers behave the same, and choosing the right type is essential. Three of the most common species include white clover often called Dutch red clover and crimson clover. White clover is the most lawn friendly option. It stays relatively low tolerates mowing and can handle moderate foot traffic. Red clover grows taller and does not tolerate frequent mowing making it better suited for less used areas or short term plantings. Crimson clover is typically used as a seasonal cover crop and is not well suited for long term lawn use. Some clovers slow their growth or go dormant during periods of summer heat or winter cold, so understanding how the area will be used and managed should guide species selection.

Timing is another area where grit matters more than luck. Many homeowners begin asking about clover lawns in spring, but spring is often too late for reliable establishment. Clovers prefer cooler conditions and young plants struggle when heat arrives too quickly. In the Piedmont region late summer through early fall is the most dependable planting window. Mid August through mid September is best for crimson clover while mid September through mid October works well for white and red clovers. Frost seeding white or red clover in February can also be successful, but fall planting remains the most reliable option because it allows plants to develop strong root systems before summer stress.

There is no truly maintenance free lawn. Lawns are deeply personal and expectations vary widely from pristine single species turf to simply having something green that can be mowed. Clover challenges traditional ideas of what a lawn should look like, but it also opens the door to more resilient and environmentally beneficial landscapes.With patience thoughtful planning and an acceptance of diversity, a clover lawn can thrive. Luck may spark the interest, but grit and growth are what make it last.

by JOANNA RADFORD

WHY WRITE TO MEN ABOUT

GRIT, GROWTH , and GRACE

I did not set out to write a book. I set out to survive a season of my life that felt heavier than I expected and harder than I wanted to admit. Somewhere along the way, words started forming. Not polished ones. Honest ones. The kind you write when you are tired of pretending you have it all together. Surry Living Magazine became an outlet for me that I did not know I needed, but it was the right time and the right place.

Most men do not need another pep talk. We have heard enough of those. What we need is truth we can actually live with. Something solid. Something real. Something that does not talk down to us or dress faith up in language that feels borrowed.

That is where Forged came from.

There are several kinds of forging. One produces a forgery. Something that looks right on the outside but is hollow underneath. Another kind of forging comes through fire. Heat. Pressure. Repetition. Hammer blows. That second kind does not happen by accident, and it does not happen without discomfort.

Life has a way of putting men into the fire whether we ask for it or not.

Failure does it. Regret does it. Loss does it. Responsibility does it. The quiet weight of expectations does it. Sometimes it is dramatic. More often, it is slow and unrelenting. In those moments, we usually face a choice. Fake it. Numb it. Run from it. Or let it shape us.

Forged is built around that choice.

The stories in the book are not heroic. They are human. They come from mistakes I have made, lessons I learned late, and moments I would rather rewrite if I could. But I have learned this much. God does not waste pain. He uses it. He shapes grit through struggle, growth through reflection, and grace through Jesus Christ. Not as an abstract idea, but as a living presence that meets us right where we are.

This is not a devotional for men who love devotionals. It is for men who do not like to read much at all. Men who are busy. Men who are tired. Men who are skeptical. Men who want faith to matter on a Tuesday afternoon, not just on Sunday morning.

Each week is short by design. A gritty story. A straightforward reflection. A practical takeaway. No fluff. No filler. No pretending. You can read a paragraph a day or a chapter a week. The point is not how fast you read it. The point is that you show up.

I often think back to training in martial arts, sparring with instructors who always seemed to be one step ahead of me. Every mistake hurt. Every correction stung. But every round made me better. Stronger. Sharper. More disciplined. That is how forging works. That is how life works. And that is how faith works when we stop trying to avoid the fire.

Forged is not about information. It is about formation. It is about becoming something real. Not perfect. Not polished. Just honest. Strong. Faithful. Willing.

If you are tired of counterfeit versions of manhood, faith, or success, this book is for you.

Forged: 52 Weeks of Grit, Growth, and Grace for Men Who Do Not Like to Read is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other online bookstores, with local bookstore availability coming soon. Step into the fire. Do not settle for a forgery.

by Larry Van Hoose

MARCH EVENTS

7

MOUNT AIRY

Comedy Club at the Earle – Andy Beningo

Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 8:30 pm

Historic Earle Theatre and Old-Time Music

Heritage Hall

142 North Main Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030

14

Live Music at Round Peak

Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 2:00 pm

Round Peak Vineyards

704 Round Peak School Road, Mount Airy, NC 27030

YADKINVILLE

16th Annual Yadkin Winter Reds (Final Weekend)

Saturday, February 28 – Sunday, March 1, 2026

Various Wineries (Weekend 2)

Starting Point: 205 South Jackson Street, Yadkinville, NC 27055

American Heart CPR/First Aid Class

Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 6:30 pm

Smart Start of Yadkin County

129 West Main Street, Yadkinville, NC 27055

ELKIN

Elkin Farmers Market

Every Saturday (March – November)

Downtown Elkin Municipal Park

376 West Main Street, Elkin, NC 28621

SCYTHIAN – Live at The Reeves

6 27 7

GALAX

Sam Morrow – Live Music

Friday, March 6, 2026 (Time TBA)

The Rex Theatre

112 East Stuart Drive, Galax, VA 24333

Lonesome River Band – Bluegrass Concert

Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 7:30 pm

Fairview Ruritan Club

2265 Fairview Road, Galax, VA 24333

Feeding Southwest Virginia’s Mobile Marketplace

Tuesday, March 17, 2026 from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Galax Public Library

610 West Stuart Drive, Galax, VA 24333

Pilot Mountain State Park – Visitor Center 1721 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC 27043 1 5

Friday, March 13, 2026 (time TBA)

Reeves Theater

129 West Main Street, Elkin, NC 28621

St. Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl

Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 4:00 pm

Downtown Elkin Historic District

Elm Street & Main Street, Elkin, NC 28621

Elkin Cruise-Ins — 4th Sunday monthly

starting in March

Downtown Elkin

376 West Main Street, Elkin, NC 28621

Explore Elkin Community Gathering

Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (time TBA)

Location posted by Explore Elkin (venue typically

Downtown Elkin or Main Street)

Elkin, NC 28621

Chris Knight – Live Music

Friday, March 27, 2026 (Time TBA)

The Rex Theatre

112 East Stuart Drive, Galax, VA 24333

Country Gentlemen Tribute Band

Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 7:30 pm

Fairview Ruritan Club

2265 Fairview Road, Galax, VA 24333

PILOT MOUNTAIN

Pilot Mountain State Park Story Walk – “What a Park Ranger Does”

Sunday, March 1 – Sunday, March 29, 2026(ongoing daily)