Renewing hope through healing, compassion, and care.
Opening Day
A hunter’s quiet reflection
Blake’s Take
Build the life that fits you
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Contributors
Veronica Green-Got
As a roving reporter, writer, and marketer, Veronica is a passionate storyteller. After starting her career in corporate marketing, she founded her own business, Golden Fleece Marketing, in 2019. Now she puts her skills to work as a reporter covering equestrian sports, offering marketing strategy for clients in a wide variety of industries, and providing writing and editing services for small businesses nationwide. She believes that everyone has a story to tell and that they’re all worthy of being told. In her free time, she events her ex-racehorse, LB.
Larry VanHoose
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.
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.
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.
Josh Snow Kage Pyles
Renew Wound Care Center
A New Chapter in Healing:
How Renew Wound Care Center Is Transforming Lives Across the Foothills
In the foothills of North Carolina, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Mount Airy, a new kind of healing is taking place—one that goes deeper than bandages and beyond traditional care. At the heart of this transformation is Renew Wound Care Center, a state-of-the-art clinic providing advanced, life-changing treatment for people suffering from chronic wounds.
From diabetic ulcers and pressure injuries to post-surgical complications and vascular wounds, Renew Wound Care Center is restoring more than skin—it is restoring quality of life. Led by board-certified wound care specialists, Renew offers cutting-edge therapies typically found only in major medical centers, now available right here in our own community.
What truly sets Renew apart are two things: their innovative mobile wound care service, which brings this high-level care directly to homes and facilities in surrounding towns like Winston-Salem, King, Rural Hall, and Pilot Mountain, and the fact that they are home to the only board-certified wound care specialists in the area.
Why Wound Care Matters More Than You Think
Chronic wounds affect millions of Americans each year, particularly those with diabetes, poor circulation, limited mobility, or immune disorders. These wounds often do not respond to standard treatment and can linger for months—or even years—causing pain, frustration, and a serious risk of infection or amputation.
“When people think of healthcare, they often overlook wound care,” says Dr. Doug Yarboro, DPT, CWS, ICLM, Board Certified Wound Specialist at Renew Wound Care Center. “But for patients living with a wound that will not heal, every day is a challenge. Our goal is to remove that burden and help them get back to living fully.”
Healing chronic wounds requires far more than a bandage and antibiotic ointment. It demands advanced technology, specialized expertise, and a personalized approach—all of which patients find at Renew.
Advanced Treatments, Real Results
Renew Wound Care Center does not settle for outdated or one-sizefits-all treatments. Instead, they use a range of modern, evidence-based therapies proven to accelerate healing and reduce complications.
Some of their most effective options include:
Ultrasonic Debridement – A gentle but powerful method using sound waves to remove dead tissue without damaging healthy skin. This encourages faster healing while reducing pain and risk of infection.
Pulsatile Lavage – A controlled irrigation technique that cleans deep into wounds, flushing out bacteria and debris with pinpoint precision.
Ultraviolet-C Therapy – A light-based treatment that targets bacteria and supports tissue regeneration, especially effective for infected or slow-healing wounds.
Advanced Wound Dressings – These are not typical bandages. Each is scientifically designed to interact with the wound environment, keeping it in the optimal state for healing. Some even release antimicrobial agents or stimulate tissue repair.
Each treatment plan is personalized, taking into account the wound’s size, depth, and cause, as well as the patient’s overall health. This customized care, combined with advanced medical technology, leads to measurable results—and healthier, happier patients.
Healing on Wheels: Mobile Wound Care That Comes to You
One of the most innovative aspects of Renew Wound Care Center is its Advanced Mobile Wound Service. Recognizing that many patients with chronic wounds are elderly, disabled, or living in rural areas, the Renew team takes its expertise on the road.
This mobile service covers a wide area, including Winston-Salem, King, Rural Hall, Pilot Mountain, and nearby towns. Patients receive the same high-quality care they would in the clinic, all from the comfort and convenience of their home or long-term care facility.
“This service has been a game-changer,” says Andrew Bullins, Nurse Liaison. “Many of our patients were unable to travel, and their wounds were only getting worse. Since working with Renew’s mobile team, we’ve seen incredible improvements.”
Mobile visits are coordinated closely with local physicians, home health agencies, and caregivers to ensure continuity of care and better outcomes for every patient.
More Than Medicine: A Team That Cares
Technology and treatment matter, but so does compassion. At Renew, every provider is board-certified in wound care, bringing not only expertise but also genuine dedication to their patients.
“Our team doesn’t just look at a wound—we look at the person behind it,” says Dr. Leah Yarboro, DPT, CWS, CLT-LANA, Board Certified Wound Specialist at Renew Wound Care Center. “We listen to their concerns, celebrate their progress, and walk with them through the entire process.”
That commitment to care is felt from the first phone call to the final dressing change. Whether you are being treated in the clinic or at home, you are welcomed like family—with dignity, respect, and hope.
Doug and Leah have been serving the Mount Airy community and surrounding areas for more than 20 years, providing expert wound care and community leadership. Both are members of the Rotary Club of Mount Airy and serve on the boards of The Blue Bear Foundation and The Shepherd’s House, furthering their commitment to helping others both inside and outside the clinic.
Hope, Healing, and a Path Forward
In a time when healthcare can often feel rushed or impersonal, Renew Wound Care Center stands apart as a place of thoughtful, patient-centered
healing. They do not just cover wounds—they help heal lives.
For patients and families struggling with wounds that will not heal, Renew offers more than care. They offer hope, relief, and a path toward recovery.
Renew Wound Care Center
436 Hadley Street, Suite 101, Mount Airy, NC 27030
Serving Mount Airy, Winston-Salem, King, Rural Hall, Pilot Mountain, and surrounding areas
Call 336-443-5150 to schedule an appointment or request mobile services
Visit: www.renewwoundcarecenter.com
Email: wounds@renew-hw.com
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
with Kevin Pyles
Discipline Versus Motivation
When we think about chasing a goal—whether it’s getting in better shape, spending more time outdoors, or finally learning a new skill—it’s easy to believe that all we need is a little motivation. Motivation feels exciting. It’s that burst of energy that pushes us to lace up our running shoes or walk into a new class for the first time.
But here’s the secret: motivation alone rarely lasts. Life gets busy. Our energy dips. The weather turns cold. Motivation fades. What really carries us forward isn’t motivation at all—it’s discipline.
Discipline is the steady choice to keep going, even on the days when we don’t feel like it. Motivation might get us started, but discipline is what gets us finished. Think of discipline as the quiet, dependable friend who shows up no matter what, while motivation is more like the friend who’s fun at the party but disappears when it’s time to clean up.
For example, imagine someone here in Mount Airy training for their very first 5K. At the beginning, they’re motivated— the new shoes are exciting, the idea of crossing the finish line feels inspiring. But after a week or two, when the soreness sets in and the novelty wears off, motivation starts to slip. This is where discipline makes all the difference. Discipline says, “Go run anyway.” Over time, that consistency pays off, and before long, the finish line isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.
Aristotle put it best centuries ago when he said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Habits are simply discipline’s end game, shaping our daily lives in powerful ways.
If you’d like to dig deeper into this idea, a couple of books are worth checking out. Retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink’s Discipline Equals Freedom is a no-nonsense reminder that freedom comes from structure, not from waiting on motivation. James Clear’s Atomic Habits shows how small, consistent changes, practiced daily, can completely reshape a person’s life.
At my jiu-jitsu academy, Pyles Jiu Jitsu between Mount Airy and Pilot Mountain, I see this lesson every day. New students walk in motivated and eager to learn. That spark is important, but it doesn’t last on its own. The students who truly grow—the ones who gain confidence, skill, and resilience—are the ones who develop discipline. They keep showing up, even on the days when they’re tired or unmotivated. Those are the days that matter most, because those are the days that shape who they become.
So, the next time you’re tempted to wait until you “feel motivated,” remember this: you don’t have to. Just start small. Take the step, make the choice, and let discipline carry you. Because when motivation comes and goes—as it always does—you’ll already be moving forward.
Kevin Pyles
Natural Products & Education
by Kage Pyles
The Holistic Path to Fitness: Body, Mind, and Spirit
In a world that never seems to slow down, families often find themselves running in different directions. Between work, school, sports, and constant screen time, it can feel nearly impossible to find meaningful moments together. Yet one of the most powerful ways to reconnect, both physically and emotionally, is through exercise as a family.
Family fitness is more than just movement—it is about togetherness. It is about laughing through a set of jumping jacks, encouraging each other during a walk around the neighborhood, or celebrating that first push-up someone finally conquers. It is not about who lifts the most or runs the farthest. It is about being present, setting an example, and building bonds through shared effort.
When families make fitness a routine, they teach more than muscle. They teach discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Kids see their parents choosing health, and that message speaks louder than any lecture about good habits. When a child watches their parent finish a workout despite being tired, they learn that strength is about follow-through, not perfection. Those lessons ripple far beyond the gym or backyard—they shape a child’s mindset for life.
Family exercise can also transform how kids see themselves. Working out together boosts confidence and self-esteem, especially when children receive encouragement from the people they admire most. A parent’s words—“You can do it,” or “I’m proud of you”—hit differently when they are said mid-workout, surrounded by laughter, sweat, and shared accomplishment.
The benefits go beyond the physical. Families that move together tend to eat healthier, sleep better, and manage stress more effectively. Exercise releases endorphins, which lift mood and energy, making family time more enjoyable and connected. It is a natural reset from the noise of daily life.
And you do not have to belong to a gym to make it happen. Start where you are with what you have. Go for a hike on one of Surry County’s beautiful trails. Challenge each other to a push-up contest in the living room. Try yoga in the backyard or dance to your favorite playlist in the kitchen. The goal is not to compete but to commit—to each other and to the idea that health is a shared journey.
There is also a beautiful accountability that happens when families work out together. Kids become motivators, reminding parents it is time for the next walk or the next game of catch. Parents rediscover playfulness, remembering that movement does not always have to feel like work. Over time, those little efforts compound into something powerful—stronger bodies, calmer minds, and deeper family bonds.
In the same way that shared meals bring families to the table, shared workouts bring them closer through action. The laughter when someone loses balance in a yoga pose, the teamwork it takes to get everyone moving, and the pride of finishing together all build a sense of unity that lasts far beyond the moment.
As we enter the season of gratitude, remember that the best gift you can give your family is your time and your example. Showing up for yourself and for them in ways that promote health, confidence, and togetherness is something that will echo for years.
So put down the phones, lace up your shoes, and step outside. Go for that evening walk, ride bikes, or take a family hike. Exercise does not just make you stronger—it brings you closer. Because families that move together do more than stay healthy. They stay connected. They stay grounded. And they stay grateful.
Email: Info@surryliving.com
Subject
Dear Blake,
Blake’s Take
BLAKE JOHNSON
I just graduated high school, and everyone is pushing me to go to a big-name college. The problem is, I would rather go to a local tech school. The pressure from my parents and even my friends is building, and I’m starting to second-guess myself. How do I follow the path I feel is right without upsetting everyone else?
KEVIN PYLES, PT
Anonymous Dear Anonymous, Congratulations on graduating high school and moving on to the next phase of your life. Planning a future and choosing a career is one of the most exciting and sometimes most difficult processes you’ll face. It can get a little murky when other people’s opinions start to weigh in. While it’s wonderful to have support, it can also be frustrating when those views don’t align with your own.
It’s interesting how education has evolved over the years. Not long ago, schooling was closely tied to real-world skills and trades. High school prepared young people for adulthood and guided them toward occupations that matched their abilities. Somewhere along the way, society began pushing every graduate toward large universities. Maybe it started because technical jobs were once seen as harder or less glamorous, but in today’s world, that’s no longer the case.
Right now, the demand for skilled labor has created a shift that favors trade and technical fields. Many of these careers offer not only stability but also excellent pay, and they are vital to our economy. The truth is, unless you want to pursue a highly specialized field like engineering or law, a big university degree may not be necessary. Technical schools often provide programs that are shorter, more affordable, and directly tailored to your career goals.
My wife, for example, is an x-ray technician. She earned her degree from a technical college in just two years and started her career right away. Her colleagues who went through four-year programs ended up with the same job title and the same starting salary. Choosing a technical school gave her a two-year head start and saved thousands in tuition.
The key is to have a plan. Spend some time thinking about what kind of career and lifestyle you want. Research the education required for that path. Once you know what your goals are, share your vision with your parents. Explain how your choice fits the future you’re building. It’s hard to argue with a well-thought-out plan that shows maturity and direction. When you talk to your parents, be patient and understanding. They’ve dreamed about your future for a long time, and their instincts come from love and protection. It may take more than one conversation for them to see that your decision is not about rebellion but responsibility.
Remember, this is your life. You’re the one who has to live it every day. Whether you choose a technical school, a university, or a trade, your success will depend on your passion, your discipline, and your willingness to learn. Any career can feel like a dead end if you’re not fulfilled, but any path can be rewarding if it aligns with who you are and what you value.
Good luck, Blake
By Gosh! BY JOSH
Archaeological Treasure in Siloam
By gosh, did you know that beneath the quiet soil of Siloam, North Carolina, archaeologists from Wake Forest University have uncovered a rich tapestry of Native American history?
This small community in Surry County has become the site of a remarkable archaeological endeavor, revealing artifacts that shed light on the indigenous peoples who once thrived in our region.
The excavation, led by Wake Forest University’s Department of Anthropology, has unearthed a variety of artifacts, including pottery shards, stone tools, and remnants of ancient dwellings. These findings suggest that the area was home to Native American groups long before European settlers ever arrived. The presence of such artifacts points to a complex and thriving society with established trade networks, agricultural practices, and deeply rooted cultural traditions.
One of the most striking discoveries is a collection of pottery fragments featuring intricate designs and craftsmanship. These pieces are believed to date back more than a thousand years, originating from the Woodland period. The designs offer a window into the aesthetic tastes, spiritual beliefs, and symbolic expressions of the indigenous communities who once lived here. Stone tools found at the site, including projectile points and scrapers, reveal their technological skill and the daily rhythms of survival that shaped their lives.
Evidence of ancient dwellings has also been uncovered— post holes and hearths that provide a glimpse into how these early residents lived day to day. The layout of the dwellings and shared spaces suggests a settled community, one that valued cooperation, organization, and connection. These findings paint a vivid picture of life in Surry County long before modern times, reminding us that this land has always been home to industrious and creative people.
Wake Forest University’s involvement highlights the vital role academic institutions play in preserving and interpreting history. Their commitment to community-based archaeology ensures that local stories are honored and woven into the broader understanding of our region’s past. By working with local historians and indigenous representatives, the university is helping to tell this story with respect, authenticity, and collaboration.
The discoveries in Siloam add a new chapter to the story of Native American history in the southeastern United States. They provide tangible proof of the depth, resilience, and artistry of the people who lived here centuries ago. More importantly, they challenge us to look beyond old assumptions and recognize the sophistication of these early societies.
Through careful excavation and research, the team at Wake Forest is not just uncovering artifacts—they are uncovering identity, memory, and legacy. The soil of Siloam, rich with history, continues to tell stories that shape our understanding of where we come from and who we are today.
As the chilly fall morning sun slowly peeked over the horizon, its first beams found me already sitting at the base of a huge red oak tree. Trails of my breath drifted away, disappearing much like the frost that lay heavy on the leaves around me. All around, God’s little creatures began to stir. In the dim light of the wooded forest, I could faintly see the twitch of a gray squirrel’s tail as it quietly made its way down the tree to the forest floor, which was blanketed in red and yellow leaves that had once danced high in the treetops.
Soon after Mr. Squirrel’s appearance came more early risers: the squeak of a sparrow, the tap of a woodpecker drumming on a dead pine. High above, the crows squawked as they passed overhead, almost as if to announce, “There is something different in the woods this morning.” The crows were right. There was a new visitor—but none of the above-mentioned animals needed to worry. My eyes were searching for something else: the beautiful and elusive white-tailed deer.
For many in Surry County, this kind of morning is a rite of passage. It’s “Opening Day,” the long-awaited start of deer season. Many of us began this tradition as teenagers, tagging along beside a parent or grandparent, learning patience one shivering sunrise at a time. Often, the only result of those early hunts was cold feet and numb fingers, but even without a deer to show for it, the memories made were more valuable than any harvest. Hunting teaches lessons that stretch far beyond the woods. The first rule any hunter learns is silence. True silence takes effort. In the forest, it can bring reward; in life, it can bring peace. I once saw a mounted bass with a plaque that read, “If only I had kept my big mouth shut, I wouldn’t be here!” It made me laugh—but it also made me think. Many of life’s problems could be eased if we practiced a little more quiet reflection.
Surveying your surroundings is another lesson the woods provide. A wise hunter never plops down without thought. A deer’s sense of smell is said to be thirty percent stronger than a dog’s and can detect scent half a mile away. Knowing this, hunters study the wind, their approach, and their exit. In life, this same principle applies. We’re better off when we “read the room” before speaking or acting.
There’s an old story about a pastor with poor eyesight who arrived late for a graveside service. He rushed to what he thought was the burial site, said a passionate prayer, and hurried off—only for the workers to remark, “I don’t know who that was, but he sure said a beautiful prayer over this septic tank!” The moral is simple: knowing your surroundings matters.
Perhaps the greatest gift from the woods is serenity. It’s the calm that settles over you when you sit still long enough to notice the world waking up. That calm has always been the real prize for me. I went many years without hunting but returned a few seasons ago, and once again found peace in those quiet hours outdoors. My family jokes that I “watch the deer through my scope” because I often let them pass. I watch, breathe, and give thanks for the beauty of creation.
Just a few hundred yards from my home lives one of God’s most majestic creatures, thriving on His bounty. You don’t have to be a hunter to experience that wonder. Go into the woods one cold November morning with only a camera—or nothing at all. Sit quietly and watch as God wakes the world, one creature at a time. Be amazed by the stealth of the deer, the grace of the fox, the chatter of the squirrel, or the flutter of a bird’s wings. But most of all, be still, if only for a while. It will do you a world of good.
Green Beans A Family Mealtime Tradition
What is one dish found on nearly every dinner table when families gather? Green beans. Family reunions, church gatherings, Sunday dinners, weeknight meals, and holiday celebrations all seem to have this humble vegetable in common. The varieties of green beans and the ways they are prepared differ from region to region, but they always bring a sense of home to the table.
Our kids look forward to green bean casserole during the holidays, which I enjoy too, but fresh green beans have always been my favorite.
Growing up, my family planted our first large garden when I was twelve. We had just moved from the city to a more rural area and suddenly had enough space to try growing all sorts of things. Our green bean crop did especially well that first year. I ate so many that summer my family joked I might turn into one.
More recently, my parents have had fun experimenting with yardlong beans. These beans look like something straight out of a fairy tale, stretching up to nearly a yard in length. The longest from their garden measured an impressive twenty-six inches. One of the best parts of this variety is how easy they are to pick. The vines grow upward along a string, so no bending is required, and just a few of these lengthy beans are enough for a meal.
If you are looking for a new way to prepare green beans this holiday season, try this colorful recipe for Green Beans, Cranberries, and Nuts. It makes a beautiful addition to any holiday table and works with either fresh or dried cranberries. If you use fresh berries, sweeten the beans with honey. Dried berries are naturally sweeter, so a smaller amount of honey is needed.
Steamable fresh green beans from the grocery store make this recipe even quicker. Cook them right in the bag for the recommended time until tender crisp. If using a steamable package, use kitchen shears to snip the beans to your desired size once cooked, then add them to the cranberry and nut mixture as directed. The recipe calls for four-inch pieces, but I prefer mine a little smaller, closer to two inches. Remember, recipes are just suggestions. Experiment with seasonings that fit your family’s taste. You can even try a salt-free blend if you are watching your sodium intake.
This Thanksgiving, take a moment to count your blessings. Enjoy time with family and friends, and make mealtime memories that may just include a dish of green beans on your table.
by CARMEN LONG
Green Beans, Cranberries, and Nuts
Servings: Approximately 2 (one serving = ⅔ cup)
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup canned, frozen, or fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into four-inch pieces
• 2 teaspoons canola or olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• ½ tablespoon honey
• Lemon pepper, dill, or a seasoning blend of your choice
EQUIPMENT
• Medium saucepan
• Colander
• Measuring spoons
DIRECTIONS
1. Drain and rinse canned green beans. If using frozen or fresh, cook until tender crisp and drain.
2. Heat oil in a saucepan, then add cranberries and nuts.
3. Cook, stirring often.
4. Once cranberries are softened, stir in green beans and cook until heated through.
5. Add honey and stir well.
6. Serve hot, sprinkled with your favorite seasoning.
Source: Dining with Diabetes WVUES, 2000–Present
farm, Garden
Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense
I was concerned. Traveler had scarcely touched his alfalfa hay and sweet grain for two days. He had also refused to go out and exercise in the pasture, one of his favorite things to do. I had a suspicion about what was bothering him. Now it was time to have a heart-to-heart.
“Traveler, are you going to tell me what’s bothering you? Or do I need to have the vet out to look at you?”
“The vet?!” He raised his head in a flash. Uttering that three-letter word, V-E-T, to a horse could prove they have the fastest reaction time of all domesticated animals.
“Well, if you’re going to continue to mope around this barn and not eat, I’m going to call the vet. Or you can tell me what is going on?”
I didn’t want to seem unsympathetic, but with Traveler, being direct was best. His habit of holding in his feelings could easily cause an ulcer. I didn’t want to waste any time finding the cause of the problem because ulcers can lead to a potentially life-threatening issue called colic. Colic is a word that no horse owner ever wants to hear.
Traveler hung his head and whispered, “I miss my friend.”
I walked around to his side and put my arm over his withers. This always comforts Traveler, and he calls it his “side hug.”
“Traveler, we talked about Ranger going to his new home and why that was best, remember?”
“I remember, but now that he is gone, I’m sad and lonely. He was here in the stall next to me for a year, Hay-Woman. We went everywhere together, talked about our goals and dreams, you know—BFFs.”
Ranger had come to me for training. He had a wonderful disposition, and his training went smoothly. He was willing, sweet, and gentle. I fell in love with him too. There is a cheeky saying in the horse world that holds a lot of truth,
“horses are like potato chips, it’s hard to have just one.” But when a father contacted me wanting a safe, reliable mount for his teenage daughter, I knew Ranger had found his new home. Making the right decision can be difficult even if you know its best. I admit I wiped more than a few tears when he left.
Still hugging Traveler, I knew he needed comforting more than a lot of rationalizing. We stood in silence. In God’s ever-perfect timing, my phone buzzed an incoming text.
“Look Traveler, the dad just sent this picture.” The photo showed his daughter sitting bareback on Ranger. She was leaning over hugging him around the neck. Both wore smiles as big as Texas.
Traveler looked intently at the picture.
“Hay-Woman, I feel selfish and ashamed. Making this all about me and not giving a thought to that young girl or Ranger. They needed each other. Just like you and me.”
“No reason to feel bad about your feelings, Traveler. We should all keep focused on God’s love for us every day and trust his plans. Even when they aren’t always what we’d choose, his plans are best.”
“Wow, God does have perfect plans, doesn’t he?”
“That’s the truth, my friend.”
by DERINA PYLES
Heartfelt Harvest: A Heaping Helping of Love, Laughter, and God’s Good Earth
The crisp, clean autumn air, carrying a whisper of woodsmoke and the sweet, earthy scent of turning leaves, always pulls me right back to a time brimming with good, old-fashioned warmth, a heaping helping of gratitude, and the joyful racket of my large, loud family. It is a season that speaks to the soul of who we are, a time when the good Lord’s generous bounty became a tangible expression of our love for one another.
Our Thanksgiving gatherings were legendary, a true testament to both our collective appetites and our deep-rooted connection to the land. I can still picture it plain as day. Every available surface in Granny’s kitchen, from the sprawling kitchen table to the two stovetops, even the tops of the washer and dryer, groaned under the weight of traditional Thanksgiving fixings. What made it truly extraordinary was
knowing that most of it, from the bright orange pumpkins that became pies to the sweet potatoes gracing our plates and the ornamental gourds adorning every nook, had been grown and harvested by our own two hands, right from our family garden.
Among all the cherished dishes, a few stand out in my memory like bright culinary beacons. There were the angel biscuits, light as a feather, rising to perfection near the warmth of the stove, their yeasty aroma filling the house. Then came the strawberry gelatin delight, a jewel-toned treat crowned with a cool, tangy layer of sour cream that always sent us cousins into fits of joy. And, of course, Granny’s masterpieces: pumpkin pies and egg custard pies, lovingly prepared days in advance, their flavors steeped in her endless affection. Finally, there was the star of the show, the colossal, glistening “gobble gobble” turkey, carved with ceremony and devoured with gusto.
The turkey brought with it a sacred ritual: the wishbone. The anticipation was electric as us cousins, eyes gleaming with competitive spirit, vied for the chance to break it. The grand prize was the larger piece, believed to grant the holder a wish. I still recall the thrill of victory, slyly breaking it against a sturdy table leg and claiming my prize, a moment of pure, unfiltered childhood joy that still makes me smile.
These weren’t just meals; they were experiences etched deep into my heart. They were a symphony of laughter, good-natured teasing, and the overlapping hum of many conversations, each of us talking and somehow all being part of every exchange. It was chaos, harmony, and love all rolled into one.
Thanksgiving taught me that gratitude is more than a word. It is a way of living. We were grateful for the earth’s abundance, for the hands that tilled the soil, for the love that filled our home, and for the irreplaceable bond of family.
Now, when I reflect on those precious memories, I realize the true harvest was never the food on the table. It was belonging. It was the love and laughter, the comfort of tradition, and the simple joy of gathering. That warmth lingers still, a reminder that the greatest blessings are found in the humble, bountiful moments we share with those we hold dear, surrounded by the gifts of the good earth and the embrace of a loud, loving family.
by Larry VanHoose
The Whisper in the Chaos: Lessons from the Shepherd’s Staff
If you have ever seen a shepherd’s staff, it doesn’t look like much, just a stick with a crook at one end. Yet in the hands of someone who spends their life on rugged hillsides, it becomes the original multi-tool. That simple piece of wood guided, rescued, defended, and steadied both shepherd and flock. It was never set aside, because without it, both were vulnerable.
That image comes straight from Psalm 23, where David writes, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” The staff, in this ancient picture, wasn’t meant for decoration. It was a lifeline, a symbol of survival, protection, and assurance that the sheep were not alone.
I caught a glimpse of that truth years ago in Nicaragua. A group of us took what we called “moto missions,” riding motorcycles deep into rural communities where roads were more theory than reality. Trails wound across steep rock faces, down dusty gullies, and around blind corners. Add in pigs, goats, children, and cattle darting across your path, and you’ve got chaos on two wheels.
I will be honest, I spent most of those rides praying. One wrong move could mean a crash or worse. But in the middle of all that noise and adrenaline, I began noticing something. At times I felt a quiet nudge, almost like an invisible hand steering me toward one line instead of another. Every time I followed that whisper, I slipped through the toughest stretches unharmed, even as riders around me lost control. Then there were other moments, the ones where I thought I heard something louder, almost like a shouted command in my head saying, “Turn here! Go there!” Without fail, those shouts were wrong. They sent me straight into danger. The whisper was steady. My own noise was reckless.
That contrast has stayed with me, and it is why the shepherd’s staff makes so much sense. It was never just a walking stick. Its curved end could pull a sheep out of a ditch or tug it away from thorns. It redirected the wandering before it turned into disaster. It doubled as a weapon when predators were near. It gave the shepherd balance on uneven ground, kept order when sheep needed separating, and tested the path ahead before each step. Every one of those uses paints a picture of care that is hands-on, not distant. Guidance, rescue, defense, steadiness, order, and safety were all wrapped into one simple tool.
We might not spend our days on rocky hillsides or in crowded sheepfolds, but the valleys of modern life are just as real. Stress at work, strained relationships, unexpected illness, financial pressure, and the constant noise of modern schedules can feel like trying to ride full throttle through chaos. In those moments, we are tempted to listen to the loudest voice—fear shouting, pride pushing, self-confidence insisting that we know best. But those voices rarely lead us where we need to go. More often, they send us off balance and straight into the ditch.
That is why the comfort of Psalm 23 still matters. The staff meant the shepherd was close. The sheep were not alone. That same assurance is what we crave when life gets rough: to know that we are guided, defended, and steadied by something beyond ourselves. The whisper, though quiet, is consistent. It nudges rather than shouts. It may not drown out the chaos, but it carries us through it.
In both sheepfolds and moto missions, the lesson is the same. Do not confuse noise for guidance. God, as the Psalmist described Him, is not a distant overseer shouting from a mountaintop. He is the Shepherd who walks in the dust, staff in hand, close enough to guide and strong enough to pull us out when we are stuck.
Even if you have never set foot in a church, the image is worth sitting with. What if protection, guidance, and care are not far-off ideals but a presence walking right beside you? What if the whisper, not the shout, is what keeps you safe from the wreck?
The shepherd’s staff reminds us that real comfort comes from more than words or rituals. It comes from presence, from guidance that is both practical and personal. The whisper might not be dramatic, but it is safer, truer, and more lasting than the shouts in our own heads. So slow down. Pay attention. The next time life feels like chaos on two wheels, lean into the whisper. It might just be the hand that carries you through.
MOUNT AIRY
Mayberry Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K
Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 8:00 am
Downtown Mount Airy
113 S Renfro Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030
Spoken Word Night at Regional History Museum
Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (time TBD)
Mount Airy Museum of Regional History
301 N Main Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030
Historic Downtown Ghost Tour
Friday, November 7, 14, 21 & 28, 2025 from 8:00 pm to 9:30 pm
Starts at Mount Airy Museum of Regional History
301 N Main Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030
Balsam Range Concert at Historic Earle Theatre
Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 7:30 pm
Historic Earle Theatre
110 S Main Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030
ELKIN
Masquerade/Murder Mystery Dinner Party
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Coley Hall Event Venue
222 E. Main Street, Elkin, NC 28621
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Bobcat at Angry Troll Brewing
Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 6:00 pm
Angry Troll Brewing
222 E. Main Street, Elkin, NC 28621
Scavenger Hunt for Couples – SHOW LOVE
Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 5:00 pm
Downtown Elkin
111 North Front St, Elkin, NC
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DOBSON
Annual Harvest Festival at Salem Fork Baptist Church
Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 8:00 am to 12:00 pm
Salem Fork Baptist Church 555 Twin Oaks Road, Dobson, NC 27017
Veterans Weekend Winemaker Dinner at Haze Gray Vineyards
Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 6:30 pm
Haze Gray Vineyards
761 Stony Knoll Road, Dobson, NC 27017
2025 Southeastern United Grape and Wine Symposium
Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
NC Viticulture and Enology Center 286 Cabernet Lane, Dobson, NC 27017
Music at the Market Concert Series
Fridays in November, 2025 at 7:00 pm
Surry County Farmers Market 903 E. Atkins Street, Dobson, NC 27017
GALAX
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Old Fiddlers’ Convention
Monday, August 4 to Saturday, August 9, 2025
Felts Park Campground
601 South Main Street, Galax VA 24333
Blue Ridge Music Center Concert Series
Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Blue Ridge Music Center
700 Foothills Road, Galax VA 24333
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Lonesome River Band LIVE
Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 7:00 pm
Creek Bottom Brewing Company Restaurant 103 Country Club Lane, Galax VA 24333
Goodson Serenaders – Midday Mountain Music
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Blue Ridge Music Center (Covered Breezeway) 700 Foothills Road, Galax VA 24333
