•Shifting to a consulting & design model centered on personalization, superior quality, and true value
•From outdoor kitchens to architectur al- design patios–and ever ything in between
•94% of our products are fully custom
• Enjoy attentive, concierge-level service
It's that time to visit us and let us assist you with your outdoor project. Ready for new Outdoor Furniture or Outdoor Kitchen Components? Now is the time to order with 1–4 weeks turnaround for orders. Now –4 week
Kim Mobley continues her mission of service at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, where she supports veterans and their families with the same dedication, faith, and grit that guided her military career. Read the article on page 8. (Photo by Megan Wells Photography)
VOICE Speaks FREE
Theheat is on! July brings hot weather, and this year it seems hotter than ever! As we celebrate our nation’s 250 th anniversary this Independence Day, we are reminded of the courage and sacrifices of those who fought to establish the freedoms we enjoy today. Regardless of political affiliation, Independence Day is an opportunity to appreciate our nation’s history and honor the generations who helped shape it. Summer is here, and it’s certainly a season for celebration!
This July, JCP has another exciting reason to celebrate. After two years of searching for the perfect place to relocate—and hopefully reopen a small storefront—we’ve finally found it! JCP is moving back to Blountville, Tennessee. Many of you may remember that our previous location was in Blountville until our space was needed for the expansion of the local Food City, which added a Starbucks. Now we’re returning to the community we love—and yes, we’ll be able to swing by Starbucks, too!
Our new location is currently being cleaned, refreshed, and prepared for its grand opening and an open house. With all the work involved, we’re planning to open later this year, possibly in early fall. This is a milestone worth celebrating! We’re already making plans for special events, children’s activities, storytelling, author gatherings, and much more. JCP is coming home!
July also marks the beginning of our holiday preparations. “Christmas in July” is the perfect reminder that it’s never too early to start shopping for meaningful gifts. Whether you’re looking for our latest releases or longtime favorites, JCP has something for every reader on your gift list.
Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on new book releases, special discounts, and upcoming events. You can also stay connected by listening to our weekly podcast, Bookmarked. New episodes are released every Friday and feature writing tips, author interviews, publishing insights, and conversations about books and storytelling. You can find Bookmarked on most major podcast platforms, and don’t forget to explore our previous episodes as well.
Here’s to freedom, family, and the blessings we share. Happy Fourth of July! We hope you have a safe, joyful, and memorable holiday.
Thought of the Month: “Stop shrinking to fit places you’ve outgrown.”
—Furaha Joyce
Verse of the Month: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” —2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)
Celebrating our 22nd anniversary! We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you!
PUBLISHER
Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 publisher@jancarolpublishing.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Draco Bailey Communications Director & Publishing Assistant communications@jancarolpublishing.com
Voice Magazine for Women wants to provide a useful and complete reliable source of information for women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s successes, and support their growth by defining and recognizing their needs and providing a concentration of resources for them. We want to be that “link” to all women.
Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief
Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin Ken Heath April Hensley Dr. Jami Lee Cindy Sproles
A Decade of Support:
The 10th Annual Baby & Family Expo Returns to Bristol
The annual Baby & Family Expo, co-hosted by the Appalachian Promise Alliance and YWCA NETN and SWVA, returns to Bristol, TN/VA on August 8, 2026! This year marks an important milestone as the event celebrates its 10th anniversary of serving regional families. Designed as a comprehensive “one-stop shop,” this highly anticipated expo connects expecting parents, veteran caregivers, and families with essential regional resources, products, and services.
Taking place in the YWCA gymnasium on its main campus at 106 State Street, Bristol, TN, the expo will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Best of all, admission is completely free for moms, dads, grandparents, foster parents, and caregivers. Attendees can explore an array of local vendors, child-focused organizations, and family health resources, making it a vital community gathering for anyone raising young children in the Appalachian region. Visitors can take full advantage of the extensive networking opportunities and informational booths available to discuss pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, childcare, early literacy, mental health, and more!
with useful items, so families are encouraged to arrive early. Additionally, there will be a silent auction of unique products. And guests who tour all the tables can register to win a major grand prize package. Last year’s comprehensive prize included items such as a car seat, baby carrier, Pack-n-Play, books and a $250 Food City gift card.
Whether you’re looking for pediatric care, local support groups, educational tools or the best baby products on the market, the Baby Expo offers a relaxed, welcoming environment. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity for community building and support.
The event features specialized regional support groups, including Parenting Sweet and the AHHH Babies breastfeeding network. Healthcare providers such as Ballad Health will be on-site to provide important family-wellness insights. Interactive demonstrations will cover critical safety topics, including Buckle Up Appalachia car seat checks and infant CPR. And live music and food vendors will add to the atmosphere.
One of the major draws of the event is its coveted giveaway. The first 200 attendees through the doors will receive complimentary goodie bags packed
For ongoing details on the event, check out the official Baby & Family Expo page at https://appalachianpromisealliance.org/baby-expo/.
Family-Friendly Activities for a Weekend Trip to the Shore
Weekend excursions to a shoreline are a summertime tradition in many families. Oceans and lakes are sights to behold at all times of the year, but the warm air of summertime makes the months of July and August a particularly popular and fun time to spend a weekend by the water.
Oceanfront and lakeside communities offer a wide range of other family-friendly activities that parents and children can enjoy during their next weekend getaway.
• Fishing boat excursion: Renting a boat or booking a fishing trip through a commercial vessel can make for a unique and fun way to spend a summer day or night. Seasoned boaters can rent their own boat, while those with little or no experience can leave the boating to the captain of a commercial vessel. While there’s no guarantee everyone aboard will catch a fish, many commercial fishermen will do their best to ensure everyone goes home having caught a fish.
• Water sports: Families that love to get out and about can look to an assortment of water sports to stay entertained during their next trip
to the shore. Jet skis, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and even surfing sessions can be booked at many waterfront destinations in the summertime. Rentals tend to be available for anyone without their own gear, but book early to ensure you won’t miss out on a chance to navigate the waters in style.
• Mini golf: Perhaps no summertime activity is more family-friendly than mini golf. Families need not be near the water to enjoy mini golf, but courses are staples of lakeside and oceanfront communities.
• Whale watching: This activity is exclusive to travelers visiting oceanfront locales, but whale watching ventures are wildly popular and a great way for families to get a sense of the scale of nature. Many whale watching excursions are between two and three hours in length, and vessels will transport passengers well out off the shoreline. Whales might be the focal point of these trips, but it’s possible passengers will see additional marine life, including dolphins, on such excursions.
There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities to enjoy when spending a summer weekend at a lakeside or oceanfront destination.
Decorating for America’s 250th Anniversary
Each year on July 4, many Americans are in a celebratory mood as they prepare for all the fanfare involved with Independence Day festivities. But Independence Day 2026 stands to be extra special since it marks America’s 250th birthday. Towns, cities, and the entire country will be planning much more extravagant July 4 celebrations in 2026.
People who want to get in on the America 250 action may want to begin thinking about how they are going to make their homes and businesses more festive.
• Bunting and banners: Bunting and banners are traditional patriotic decorations. They traditionally are red, white, and blue and can be hung from porches, fences, and railings.
• American flags: Many homes and businesses already display the flag, but this is the perfect opportunity to do so for those who want to exhibit their pride in America. Be sure to treat the flag with respect and review the official United States Flag Code, which mandates that the flag never touches the ground and is illuminated if flown at night. When hanging against a wall or window, the blue union must be at the top left.
• Specialty signs: Many municipalities are getting in on the America 250 action and will organize specialty parades and parties. People can check with local government offices to see if lawn signs will be available. If so, they can be displayed in front of homes or retail stores.
• Tablescapes: Themed America 250 tablecloths can be used for backyard parties and picnics. Centerpieces of mason jars filled with mini flags and birthday number candles spelling out 250 are another fun idea.
• Cozy accents: Both homeowners and store owners can incorporate cozy accents like wooden blocks or patriotic table runners that display the 1776-2026 theme. Throw pillows and blankets featuring stars and stripes tossed over an antique rocking chair on a porch or near an entryway are a great way to offer a touch of Americana.
• Lights: Twinkling holiday lights in red, white and blue can be hung around windows and doors, or wrapped around trees in the yard for festive appeal.
Communities may identify specific decorating goals, like entire streets featuring paper lanterns or America 250 flags on telephone poles. Residents can participate in such plans where possible.
America’s 250th birthday certainly is worthy of celebration, and lots of patriotic decor can commemorate this special event.
Kim Mobley: A True Patriot
From Serving in the Marine Corps
to
Serving Veterans at the VA
By Allison Lawson
Before serving 20 years in the Marine Corps and later supporting and serving veterans at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, Kim Mobley had a strong sense of patriotism.
Mobley grew up living on Main Street in Jonesborough, Tenn., a few blocks from downtown. “My parents divorced when I was two with my dad remarrying when I was twelve,” Mobley said. “With that, I was blessed to gain a stepmother, a stepsister, stepbrother, and later two younger brothers and a younger sister.”
Mobley said her mother was “a rock” and supported her in every endeavor. “She was at every softball game, drill meet, and event I ever had,” she said.
Mobley attended David Crockett High School in Washington County and went on to attend East Tennessee State University in Johnson City for her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Criminal Justice/ Criminology.
She was inspired to join the Marine Corps, in part, because of her parents. “I remember always having a great sense of patriotism and felt a strong desire to serve my country,” Mobley said. “Both of my parents served in the Army, so that was naturally the branch of service I was considering.”
Mobley obtained an Army ROTC scholarship during her senior year of high school. “But God had other plans,” she said. “I felt strongly led to join the Marine Corps. Ultimately, this was the service I felt the least prepared to join, because I did not consider myself a physical specimen by any means.”
She added, “I’m not very big, but what I lacked in physical prowess, I made up for in tenacity and grit.”
Mobley said she prayed “a great deal” about her decision and felt that God would give her the endurance and strength needed to succeed. “And, He did,” she said. “So, I declined the scholarship and enlisted in the Marine Corps. It was the best decision I could have made.”
Megan Wells Photography
Mobley said she wouldn’t trade her time in the Marine Corps for the world. “It was an incredible journey filled with unbelievable experiences, lifelong friends, and unmatched learning and leadership opportunities,” she said.
Mobley served 20 years in the Marine Corps and obtained a Reserve Retirement. After graduating from high school, she attended Boot Camp at Paris Island, S.C., followed by Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) School to become a Unit Diary Clerk.
“I spent my enlisted years in the Marine Corps Reserve while attending college and graduate school,” Mobley said.
When Mobley finished graduate school, she found herself at a crossroads. “I really felt God leading me to go to Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Quantico, Va., and become a Marine Corps Officer,” she said. “Talk about scary. The thought of leading Marines and making decisions that could cost them their lives was intimidating, to say the least. But once again, God had other plans, and I chose to be obedient.”
Mobley shared that OCS was the most physically intense and difficult thing she had done in her life.
“But as our chaplain at OCS used to say, ‘God is good all of the time, and all of the time, God is good.’ Once again, He gave me what I needed to succeed.”
After OCS, Mobley went to The Basic School in Quantico, followed by MOS training to become an adjutant. Following MOS school, she was stationed at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Ga., as an adjutant, followed by Camp Lejeune, N.C., to be the Staff Secretary for the 4th Marine Expeditionary Brigade, which was later deactivated and used its staff to activate the US Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command (MARSOC).
26th MEU deployment: A photo on the deck of the USS Kearsarge while traveling through the Strait of Hormuz.
Kim Mobley during her promotion to Major.
Kim Mobley was deployed to Afghanistan with the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force–Afghanistan (CJSOTF-A) and was sent outside the wire to complete a girls’ school assessment. She is pictured here with one of the students.
After this, Mobley served as the adjutant for the Marine Special Operations Advisor Group, which later became the Marine Special Operations Regiment. “While serving with MARSOC, I deployed to Afghanistan with the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force —Afghanistan,” she said. “Following my stint with MARSOC, I received orders to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit to be the adjutant, deploying aboard the USS Kearsarge, operating in the Mediterranean and US Central Command regions.”
When that deployment concluded, Mobley received orders to Headquarters Marine Corps to be the Operations Officer for the Marine Corps Sexual Assault Response Branch. “Following that tour of duty, my husband and I decided to come home to Tennessee, and I resigned my active-duty commission and finished my last two years in the Corps in the Marine Corps Reserve,” Mobley said.
Although Mobley’s parents did not at first understand why she’d want to “give up a full ride” to enlist in the Marine Corps, she said, they were both supportive of her decision. “Between the GI Bill and receiving half tuition because my dad was faculty at ETSU, I graduated from college and graduate school with zero debt,” she said. “I truly feel this is an example of how God provides.”
Both of Mobley’s parents served in the Army during the Vietnam War, with her father serving in Vietnam. “My husband is also a Marine, and his father served in the Marine Corps during Korea,” she added.
After Mobley’s decades-long service in the Marine Corps, she now works at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center in Mountain Home as Assistant Chief of the Business Office. She has been here for 10 years and has served in a variety of administrative roles.
“It has been such a blessing, because it allows me to continue doing what I’ve always enjoyed doing—taking care of and serving people who have served,” she said.
“I also have the opportunity to effect positive change on staff, veterans, and their families. You can’t ask for a better job.”
Mobley’s favorite part of working at the VA is that she gets to play a role in a healthcare system that strives to serve veterans. “I also enjoy that I can empower staff to change or come up with processes that improve our healthcare system so that we can better serve veterans and their families,” she said. “I really enjoy solving problems for our staff, too.”
When Mobley isn’t working, she loves to spend time at church and with her friends and family. “I also like spending time outside doing a number of activities, but my happy place is on the couch with my husband and our animals,” she said.
All in all, Mobley feels blessed to have served in the Marine Corps, and she feels blessed to serve at the VA. “We owe so much to our service members,” she said. “They answered the call and are willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice. There is no greater love than this—that a man should lay down his life for his friends.”
Kim and her husband, Gordon, with their first German Shepherd, Turner.
Megan Wells Photography
How to Support the Heartbeat of your Neighborhood
Small
businesses drive the economic engine and often reflect the character of a local community. When people choose to shop at a local business over a big box retailer, they aren’t just making purchases, they’re making an investment in their communities.
The United States Chamber of Commerce says small businesses employ nearly half of the American workforce and represent 43.5 percent of America’s gross domestic product (GDP). Small businesses are a critical component of the national economic ecosystem and the cities and towns where they are located. Research consistently shows that a far greater percentage of every dollar spent at a local business stays within the community compared to each dollar spent at a big box retailer. Those funds ultimately circulate to schools, essential services and parks. Local businesses also help create jobs.
There are many ways to support local businesses in your area.
• Think local first. Shifting spending habits may require looking to neighborhood stores before clicking on the cart on an e-commerce site. Small shifts like visiting a farmer’s market for produce or utilizing a local boutique for unique gifts can create a positive impact.
• Advocate for the business. Social media engagement is a powerful, often free, marketing tool. Anyone can boost the visibility of a business by taking to social media to spread the word. Tagging businesses in photos, checking in on social media, following accounts and liking posts, and writing positive reviews can encourage others to support local businesses.
• Go with local services. Supporting local businesses goes beyond retail shops. People can support local businesses by hiring a local fitness instructor, accountant, website designer, plumber, and more. Hiring local service providers keeps specialized skills within the community and can result in more personalized service.
• Purchase gift cards. Buying a gift card to a local business allows shoppers to share the experience with another, and potentially create a repeat customer. This is support that a local business can use.
By choosing and supporting local businesses, communities remain vibrant and successful.
Happy
Heading East
By Kelly McFadden
“My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.” Psalm 73:26 KJV
Interpretation: My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my portion forever. – Psalm 73:26
Some years ago, my father passed away rather suddenly. As a family we sat with him in the doctor’s office and were told he had a month to live. He took his last breath almost exactly one month later.
I was given the book “A Grace Disguised” as a means to deal with loss. The author, Jerry Sittser, lost his mother, wife, and daughter in a car accident leaving behind he and three
other children. He tells the story of having a nightmare where he is chasing the sunset trying not to let the darkness overtake him. When he tells his sister about the dream later, she shares with him that the fastest way to reach the light is to travel east and dive into the darkness. The author then makes a decision to accept the darkness, knowing he cannot ultimately escape it but must at some point face it.
Facing the darkness meant many different things for my mom, sister, and I as we grieved the loss of my dad. It meant crawling into bed at night and curling into a ball and crying, planting a tree in his memory, attending grief groups, celebrating his birthday out at dinner and telling wonderful stories about him, having days where it felt hard to put one foot in front of the other, celebrating his traits as we saw them in his grandchildren, and accepting the hugs, thoughts, help, and love of friends whenever they were offered.
A Journey of Memories , Fait h, and Meaning
Jour ne y with Caro l Owen Reynolds th rough two de eply person al reflection s— Holy Land Jour nal 2016 and he r st or ie s of grow in g up in Fe ss enden, Nort h Da kota . Tr avel with Reynolds from he r hometown to the Holy La nd, di scover ing the beauty of fa it h and memory.
I have learned through my own experience that grief and its various responses looks different for each person. I am grateful for all that my dad was to me, so thankful to God that I had him as my father and for his example. However, I also found myself sad and upset about my loss. I love reading through the Psalms, especially when I am sad. Psalm 46:1–2 reads “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”
Through our losses, God wants to be our strength, comfort, and hope. We simply need to ask and seek. In our darkest hours, in our most anguished times, the Lord is your fortress, shield, protector, comforter. Head east. He will bring the light to the darkest of places. www.homeword.com
Chronic Dismissal
By Dr. Jami Lee
There is a sentence I have heard more times than I can count from women living with chronic illness: “If I could just find someone who cared enough to listen to me.”
Not someone with more credentials. Not a better protocol or a newer lab panel. Someone who would simply listen . Really listen. Not glance at a chart and summarize years of suffering into clinical shorthand. Not end the appointment with “your labs look fine” while she sat there knowing, with every cell in her body, that something was wrong.
When I hear that sentence, I don’t hear a complaint about healthcare. I hear a woman who has been invisible for a very long time.
Most women I work with have seen 10, 11, sometimes 15 practitioners before finding their way to me. They became experts in their own condition out of necessity. They read the research, tried the protocols, attended the summits. And somewhere along the way, they learned to tell a shorter version of their story, because the full version took too long and rarely changed the outcome.
That kind of invisible carrying has a cost. And it is not only emotional.
Chronic dismissal—the experience of suffering, seeking help, and being told you’re fine—is a physiological event. The body is always asking one question: Am I safe? Am I seen? Does anyone know I’m here? When the answer, repeatedly, is no, the nervous system stays in a state of vigilance. Cortisol remains elevated. Inflammatory signaling continues. The immune system, already dysregulated in conditions like Hashimoto’s, never receives the input it needs to begin recalibrating.
Being heard is part of the mechanism of healing.
I have watched something specific happen when a woman who has been carrying her story alone finally tells it fully, without editing, to someone who stays with her through all of it. Something releases. There is a moment, often the first time someone reflects her experience back in her own words and says I believe you , when something she has been bracing against for years begins to soften.
That is a nervous system finally exhaling.
This is why community changes things that information
alone cannot. When a woman enters a space where others understand specifically, because they have lived inside the same symptoms and the same dismissals, the shame she has carried quietly begins to lose its grip. She stops being the only one who couldn’t figure it out. She starts being someone who finally found the right room.
If you have been trying to heal in a system that hasn’t listened, you were not too complicated. You were not too much. You were not somehow uniquely unfixable.
You were just in the wrong room. The right room is one where your full story is welcome and necessary. Where someone holds the whole picture and stays with you through the part that takes longer than anyone wants it to. Where someone cares enough to listen.
You have always deserved that. And it is not too late to find it.
Dr. Jami Lee is the founder of Alternative Healthcare Solutions. To find the community you have been waiting for, go to alternativehealthcaresolutions.org.
Dr. Jami Lee
By April Hensley
Gardeners, get ready for a lot of plant watering during July. It’s one of the hottest, if not the hottest, months in our growing zone. Add to that the little rain we receive usually dries up as fast as it lands. Even grass has a tendency to turn brown during the scorching weather. We just don’t want that to happen to our happy growing flowers and plants.
If you get up in the morning before it’s hot and your plants are already wilted or your blooms are falling off, your plants aren’t getting enough water. To test, use your finger and dig down into the soil. Roots run deep so if it’s only damp on top or about an inch down, water is not reaching where it’s needed.
Water needs to soak into the ground deeply. Garden beds need a heavy soaking three times a week. A light watering will just evaporate before it reaches the roots. Pots and hanging baskets need to be watered probably every day during the scalding hot weather. Don’t forget pots on porches and under overhangs because rain won’t help them.
Here are some more tips that may help you save time, water, and your plants.
• Use soaker hoses and drip irrigation. They direct water to the soil so they are putting the water gently right to the area needed.
• An automatic timer can be used to keep schedules on track.
• Take recycled butter bowls with lids and carefully put holes in the bottom. Dig down and place the top rim level with the soil. When you water, it will get moisture closer to roots.
• When you water with a hose aim for the soil and try not to get the leaves wet. I like to water in the evenings. It gives the plants a chance to use it overnight.
• If you want to water in the morning, do it early at dawn and water the soil only, so the plant has time to soak it up before the sun heats up.
• Rain is the original plant waterer before there was public water systems. Watch the weather and cut back on watering when nature has stepped in.
• Weeding will help keep moisture directed to the plants you want to keep thriving.
• Shade cloths and mulching around your plants creates a barrier from the sun to help moisture stay in the ground where it’s needed.
Conserving Fuel as Prices Rise
Fuel is a necessity for millions of drivers on the country’s roadways. According to a recent report from Experian Automotive, approximately 1.4 percent of the 292.3 million cars and trucks on the road in the United States in 2024 were electric. Even though the number of EVs is rising, there are still plenty of people behind the wheels of gas-powered vehicles that require routine fill-ups.
As of late March 2026, Canadian gas prices surged to an average of roughly $1.68–$1.86 per liter (there are roughly 3.785 liters in a gallon). The national average gas price in the United States at the same time was $3.98 per gallon. When gas prices rise due to various factors, drivers are increasingly interested in ways to conserve fuel and stretch their dollars further. Here are some ways to mitigate rising gas prices.
• Reduce your speed. Driving at moderate speeds increases efficient consumption of fuel. Some vehicles may feature an “ECO” mode that optimizes fuel consumption by restricting engine power, among other changes, or notifies the driver when they are driving in a manner that is using fuel wisely. Driving above 50 miles per hour reduces fuel economy considerably.
• Practice smooth driving. Drivers should avoid aggressive starts (gunning it) and hard braking, which can eat into fuel efficiency. Letting off the accelerator early and coasting to red lights or stop signs helps.
• Rely on cruise control. Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, which can save fuel on highway travel.
• Keep tires inflated. Properly inflating tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI can improve fuel economy by roughly 0.6 percent to 3 percent for most drivers, according to the U.S. Department
of Energy. Driving on tires that are 20 percent under-inflated can reduce fuel economy by as much as 10 percent. Removing unnecessary heavy items from the vehicle can also help to reduce drag.
• Limit idling and combine trips. Turn off the vehicle when stopped for more than a few minutes. When running errands, combine short trips to keep the engine warm, which is more efficient.
• Skip the premium fuel. Unless a vehicle owner’s manual specifically recommends filling up with premium fuel, drivers will not see an increase in performance by choosing this more expensive option, says Progressive Insurance. A person will just be paying more for premium, which is always more expensive than standard 87-octane fuel.
Drivers can use various strategies to conserve fuel when gas becomes more expensive.
Thinking of Buying or Selling?
Voicemail Male
By Ken Heath
Gretchen Louise
Thirty-two years ago, our lives changed forever. We’d been married almost four years, and been in our new house outside Chilhowie for only a bit. I was still in radio, my angel working at a local engineering company. Just the two of us, with all the freedom in the world, no responsibility whatsoever, so we could come and go whenever we pleased. Jennifer Necessary was our secretary at the “Mighty WMEV,” and on her way back from lunch, she spotted a black ball of fur beside Radio Road. She just knew we needed a dog.
I’d always had a dog, from my first pup when I was just six years old and my granddad took me in his Tom’s Peanut truck to Rich Valley to pick out my very own dog. My angel’s family had a shared dog, but she’d never had one of her very own. Jennifer wouldn’t take no for an answer, so that afternoon as we left, I toted the new pup in the seat beside me. My angel ran into Walmart to get some pup food while I kept company, and that night, we bedded down this ball of fur in the downstairs bedroom, a huge cardboard box as the temporary gate in my attempt to crate her.
Of course, all night she cried. That ear piercing, heart breaking cry. The next morning, my Angel decided it just wasn’t going to work. Until she looked into those big brown eyes. It was like the pup knew that she was defeated, and was soon to be alone once again. “One more night” turned into over a dozen years. The second day had Gretchen— that’s what the pup told me her name was—at the vets, dewormed, vaccinated, and ours.
She had the run of Greenbriar, making fast friends with all the neighbors, especially the folks that ran the meat processing place that treated her with daily bones. She fussed at the cows in the adjacent field, taking every opportunity to slip under the fence not to
chase them, but to roll in their pies to mask her smell after every bath.
Through three moves, two ACL surgeries, and a dozen years of absolute love and devotion, her tired body finally gave out. I’d carried her out to potty for months, but now, she couldn’t even stand that. And for the first time, I had to make that decision. My first dog had simply gone off in the woods to pass, my second stayed with my parents when we married. But Gretchen was mine. I held her, stoked her fur, softly sang into her ear through my tears—a routine I’ve suffered four times as I’ve said goodbye to pieces of my heart.
When the funeral home called me to pick up her ashes, I took the top off my Jeep and strapped her tiny, wooden box in the seat next to mine, just like she loved to ride, and the warm summer sun baked down on us as we took the long way home, past as many cow pastures as I could find, one last time. She was the first to sit on my mantle in my office, later joined by Sophie, Sadie, and Scottie.
Her pictures are in my office at home and at work, her memory intertwined with my soul. That special heartache of losing unconditional love still aches. But the memories of Miss Gretchen Louise will live in me until we are once again together on the outskirts of Heaven—where all fine, fine dogs await for our forever together. Thank you, my girl, for leaving your paw prints deep in my heart.
{Heath is a Marion, Virginia native who channels his passions through writing and music. When he’s not at his “real job,” Ken owns the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse. He’s also a proud dog dad to Miss Reagan and their rescue pup, Scottie the Wonder Dog, and shares life with his wonderful wife. Follow him on Facebook and X at @kenheath.
Ken
NEW RELEASES OUT NOW!
Down at the “No Gotty”
Written by Donna Snow King
Where else but in Texas can rodeos and radios come together to save a small town? In this captivating small-town adventure, the world of high school rodeo collides with the hidden magic of amateur radio. When Donna Snow King and her lively cast of characters spanning three generations join forces for the good of their community, nothing can stand in their way. Amid the dust and laughter at “The No Gotty,” discover an unforgettable story of courage, hope, and the joy of learning something new. Bulls, horses, cattle, and radios are a combination that will win every time!
Online readers: click
The Secret of the Heart-Shaped
Shell and Pearls...and Mermaids
Written and Illustrated by JeanAnn Taylor
The Blood of the Wine
Written by Daryll Simcox
Set in the Appalachian Mountains, The Secret of the Heart-Shaped Shell is the story of Lissa and Rylee. While the cousins have the relatable struggles of becoming teenagers, they also have a family mystery to solve. From one summer to the next, Lissa learns to overcome her insecurity and succeed in her passion of ballet. Rylee learns patience as she becomes a valuable volleyball player. Both girls learn to trust themselves, to realize their inner courage, and to take risks as they follow their dreams. Online readers: click here to order.
Strange creatures are roaming the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the forests of the Southern Appalachians are darkened by nightfall, the air is chilled by what feels like a walking nightmare. By the light of the moon, park rangers must uncover the mystery behind these creatures’ sudden appearance—before they kill again. Online readers: click here
Driven by Rage Fueled by Diesel
The Forgotten Victims of the Tennessee Highway Hunters
A group of 20 sociology students at Elizabethton High School chose to study real unsolved cases instead of textbooks, learning through investigation and research. Discovering Tennessee’s high number of highway serial killers, they explored the reasons behind it while giving attention to overlooked victims. This book reflects their work, raising questions about how many cases remain unresolved and honoring those affected. Online readers: click here to order.
Estey Grey Plays Her Own Way
Written by Eliette Olivia
Illustrated by Havilynn Mills and Ember Crenshaw Estey Grey is a bright, creative girl who is inspired to learn how to play the trombone after hearing jazz musicians in New Orleans. Born with a limb difference, she approaches challenges with determination and imaginative thinking. With a little help from her family, she creates a prosthetic that helps her shine alongside the musical stars of the French Quarter. Online readers: click here to order.
The Harlot of Gloucester
Written by John H. Hilton
At the dawn of our republic, beautiful and fiery-willed Henrietta Cromwell grows up in an atmosphere of seemingly unparalleled privilege, only to reject her world when paternal duty calls. Betrayed by her father and the man she runs away with to marry, Henrietta is forced to deal with the turbulent world of British America, turning toward liberty and revolution. Will this excellent young woman survive and thrive in this world at such a tender age? Or will she be overtaken by events and become a tragic figure like so many others when this world turns upside down? Online readers: click here to order.
The Dead Valaraii Rising Trilogy
Book 3
Written by Kristen Johnson
For over two centuries, the elven kingdom of Aelgalad has suffered under the Dark. Now Syllē enters the cursed realm carrying the last hope of its people, while Tarin joins the wizard Gideon on a dangerous journey through the Moaning Bog that uncovers ancient treachery tied to the fall of Shara. As Dark Lord Merilik prepares his final campaign to destroy the bloodline of Asger, war spreads across MithTerra. With alliances failing and the dead rising, Syllē and Tarin must face the true cost of hope in a world nearing annihilation. In the final installment of the Valaraii Rising Trilogy, the battle for the future will demand everything. Coming soon!
by David Ross Fraley
Originally published in 1951, Those Devils in Baggy Pants by Ross S. Carter—an 82nd Airborne veteran— became a bestseller, selling a million copies and reaching readers around the world. After years out of print, the book is now being republished by Carter’s relative, David Ross Fraley, who hopes to honor both the story and its author.
Sad Eyes: 1912 to 1939 tells the story of Mary Ellen Murphy, an Army nurse from Waterloo, Iowa, whose courage, intelligence, and dedication help save countless soldiers’ lives during World War II. As she serves her country and rises to every challenge, Mary Ellen proves what women can accomplish when given the chance.
Set during World War I in southwest Virginia, Hiding Ezra follows farmer Ezra Teague as he must choose between serving his country and caring for his family. Guided by practicality and his Christian faith, Ezra chooses his family, while Alma Newton tries to help him escape his predicament. The story becomes a mix of love, adventure, and pursuit as authorities work to bring him to military justice.
At the dawn of our republic, beautiful and fiery-willed Henrietta Cromwell grows up in an atmosphere of seemingly unparalleled privilege, only to reject her world when paternal duty calls. Betrayed by her father and the man she runs away with to marry, Henrietta is forced to deal with the turbulent world of British America turning toward liberty and revolution. Will this excellent young woman survive and thrive in this world at such a tender age? Or will she be overtaken by events and become a tragic figure like so many others when this world turns upside down?
Though women’s roles in nineteenth-century society were strictly defined, Amanda Armstrong defies expectations. With food and supplies gone, she travels to Knoxville in search of help during the war and returns home with an orphaned boy who refuses to leave her side. As Amanda faces her own fears, she helps the women around her fight to survive.
Order this book series directly from JCP — for a discounted price! Go to the “JCP Book Shop” at www.jancarolpublishing.com.
Ross S. Carter
Dan Perkins
Rita Sims Quillen Maggie MacLean
John H. Hilton
HIt’s A Classic!
Short and sweet film reviews of old, classic movies perfect for a girls’ night in!
By Allison Lawson
appy Fourth of July! This month, America celebrates the 250 th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In honor of that, I wanted to recommend a patriotic movie from the late ’80s: Glory, directed by Edward Zwick.
Following the Battle of Antietam, Colonel Robert Gould Shaw (played by Matthew Broderick) is offered command of the United States’ first
all-Black regiment, the 54 th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. With junior officer Cabot Forbes (Cary Elwes), Shaw puts together a strong and proud unit, including the escaped slave Trip (Denzel Washington) and the wise gravedigger John Rawlins (Morgan Freeman). At first limited to tedious manual tasks, the regiment fights to be placed in the heat of battle. This is the perfect war drama to get you in the mood for all of the exciting Fourth of July celebrations this year.
Wine Pairing:
Try a chilled red wine (something that will hold up against the summer heat), like a Pinot Noir. It will pair great with this movie…and with burgers, ribs, and grilled meats!
JCP Book Pairing:
If you’re looking for a patriotic reading recommendation, check out the new historical fiction novel from John H. Hilton, The Harlot of Gloucester: A Novel of the American Revolution.
Linda Hudson Hoagland
AUTHORS on the ROAD
(Weather Permitting and Subject to Change)
Tuesday, July 14, the Appalachian Authors Guild will conduct a General Meeting at Fiddler’s Restaurant, 480 Cummings Street, Abingdon, VA, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A program called “READ Forum” will be presented by Victoria Fletcher. All are welcome to attend.
Michael Gryboski
Author of Carla Series
Friday, July 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Summerfest 7430 Spring Village Dr.,Springfield, V A 22150
Saturday, August 29, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
End of Summer Artisan Market Strangeways Brewing 3110 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23230
Raven Howell
Author of T he Charms of US Farms: Finding Out How Things Work and Seasons
Friday, July 31, 6 p.m.
Book and Bites Night Market Town of Mount Hope Park Finchville Turnpike, Otisville, NY
The Lindsay Harris Murder Mystery Series, The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Easter Lilies; Broken Petals; Wild Daisies; Scattered Flowers; Daffodil Dreams; Christmas All Year Long: An Anthology of Holly Jolly Tales; and These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Books 1–7
Friday, July 3, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Damascus, VA
Saturday, July 4, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Book Signing at Big Walker Lookout, Wytheville, VA
Monday, July 5, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Book Signing at Big Walker Lookout, Wytheville, VA
Friday, July 10, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, 215 Cassady Blvd. Pikeville, KY
Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City Volunteer Parkway, Bristol, TN
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Appalachian Authors Guild General Meeting, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Program: READ Forum Fiddler’s Restaurant, Abingdon, VA
Friday, July 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Galax, VA
Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA
Friday, July 24, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City Vansant, VA
Saturday, July 25, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Lebanon, VA
Saturday, July 25, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Book Signing, Cooks & Books Farmers Market Pavilion St. Paul, VA
Sunday, July 26, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Book Signing & Angels Big Walker Lookout, Wytheville, VA
Monday, July 27, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Book Signing at Virginia Highlands Festival
Higher Ed Center Front Lobby Abingdon, VA
Tuesday, July 28, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Book Signing at Virginia Highlands Festival
Higher Ed Center Front Lobby Abingdon, VA
Wednesday, July 29, 10 am – 4 pm
Book Signing
Virginia Highlands Festival
Higher Ed Center Front Lobby Abingdon, VA
Thursday, July 30, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Book Signing at Virginia Highlands Festival
Higher Ed Center Front Lobby Abingdon, VA
Debbie Neal
Sweet Sofie Sue will teach your child to help, love, and value their friends, family, and loved ones through Sofie's adventure at the beach. A powerful little book to teach children how important it is to be kind to others. The author uses two methods—a Bible verse and animals to tell this delightful and fun story!
Tina Timlin Sohn
Explore the colorful world around you with the Little White Fish in this interactive children's book. See how exciting the world is when living in color. Rhyming and a great interactive teaching tool.
Audrey Jane
Moe, The Traveling Fish is a oneof-a-kind, adventurous, true story about a betta fish who traveled with his owners, Nana, Papa, and their grandkids, from Maryland to Iowa. On their way west, Papa got lost and ended up at a luxurious resort nestled in the Pennsylvania mountains, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Experience the adventure through the mind of Nana's clever fish, Moe. He sees the ordinary as extraordinary. Enjoy his adventure, and maybe one day you can experience the beautiful Nemacolin Woodlands Resort for yourself!
JeanAnn Taylor
Set in the Appalachian Mountains, The Secret of the Heart-Shaped Shell is the story of Lissa and Rylee. While the cousins have the relatable struggles of becoming teenagers, they also have a family mystery to solve. From one summer to the next, Lissa learns to overcome her insecurity and succeed in her passion of ballet. Rylee learns patience as she becomes a valuable volleyball player. Both girls learn to trust themselves, to realize their inner courage, and to take risks as they follow their dreams.
All American Legacy Tour Brings Jake Hoot and Symphony of the Mountains
to Three Appalachian Communities
Music fans across the Appalachian Highlands are invited to experience an unforgettable summer concert event as Symphony of the Mountains joins forces with Jake Hoot, winner of Season 17 of The Voice and champion of The Voice: Battle of Champions during Season 29, for All American Legacy, a special three-city tour celebrating America’s musical traditions, Appalachian heritage, and patriotic spirit.
The tour begins on Thursday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Appalachian Ski Mountain in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, continues Friday, July 18 at 7:00 p.m. at Allandale Mansion in Kingsport, Tennessee, and concludes on Saturday, July 19 at 3:00 p.m. at the David J. Prior Convocation Center in Wise, Virginia.
Each evening will begin with a patriotic orchestral celebration featuring beloved American favorites including The Star-Spangled Banner, music from The Patriot , Orange Blossom Special , America the Beautiful , and God Bless America . Following intermission, Jake Hoot and special guests will join Symphony of the Mountains for orchestrated performances of audi ence favorites including Tennessee Strong , Spirit of the Mountain , Love Out of Time , Better Off Without You , and more.
Combining the power of a full symphony orchestra with Hoot’s heartfelt country sound , All American Legacy celebrates family, resilience, community, and the unique spirit of the Appalachian Mountains. The concert is especially significant as it marks the first time Jake Hoot has ever performed with a full sym phony orchestra and the first time his original music has been arranged and performed with orchestral accompaniment. This unique collaboration offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience Hoot’s music in an entirely new and powerful way.
Wise, Virginia, performance is free and open to the public.
Tickets for the Kingsport performance can be purchased through the Linktree found in Symphony of the Mountains’ Facebook and Instagram bios. Concertgoers are encouraged to secure their seats early and follow Symphony of the Mountains on social media for additional event information and updates.
JAKE HOOT JAKE HOOT
Ticket information varies by location. Tickets for the Blowing Rock performance are available through Appalachian Ski Mountain. The Kingsport concert at Allandale Mansion will feature a Pay What You Can ticket model, allowing audience members to choose a ticket level that works best for them. Admission to the
Recipes to Beat the Summer Heat!
Watermelon Gazpacho
4–6 Servings
3 1/2 cups cubed fresh seedless watermelon
3 vine-ripened tomatoes (about 12 oz.)
1 English cucumber
1 red bell pepper
1/2 small red onion
1 garlic clove
1/4 cup red wine vinegar, plus more to taste
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste
1/2 tsp. black pepper
2 tsp. hot sauce (optional), plus more to taste
1/3 cup olive oil, plus more for serving
1 Tbsp. fresh mint or basil leaves, chopped
Grilled bread, for serving
1. To a blender, add 3 cups of the watermelon. Roughly chop 2 tomatoes, three-quarters of the cucumber, half of the bell pepper, and a quarter of the onion and add them to the blender. Add the garlic, vinegar, salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Blend on high speed until the soup is very smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly pour in the oil and blend until the mixture is thoroughly combined and emulsified. Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 12 hours.
3. Meanwhile, finely chop the remaining tomato, half bell pepper, quarter cucumber, quarter onion, and ½ cup watermelon. Combine in a small bowl, cover,
and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Before serving, whisk the soup and taste and adjust for vinegar, salt, and hot sauce. Ladle into serving bowls and top with a big scoop of the chopped watermelon mixture. Sprinkle with mint and drizzle with oil, if you like. Serve with grilled bread.
1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1. Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water. Return pasta to the pot and toss with two tablespoons oil. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 2/3 cup olive oil, vinegar, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, honey, salt and pepper until combined.
3. Add the cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, salami, olives, zucchini, bell pepper, pepperoncini, and onion to the dressing in the large bowl; toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate at least one hour and up to 3 days.
4. Just before serving, add the basil, and stir gently to recombine all the ingredients. Garnish with more parmesan, if you like.
1 lb. cooked lobster meat from 6 to 8 medium lobster tails or from 3 (1 1/2 to 2-lb.) live lobsters
3 Tbsp. mayonnaise
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper, plus more for sprinkling
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1 tsp. lemon zest
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
2 Tbsp. finely chopped chives, plus more for sprinkling
1/4 tsp. paprika, plus more for sprinkling
1/8 tsp. ground cayenne pepper (optional)
6 split-top hot dog buns
2 Tbsp. salted butter, melted, plus more for optional drizzling
1. Remove the shells from the lobster and pick through the lobster meat. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the meat dry. Chop the meat into very large, recognizable chunks, 1/2- to 1-inch pieces.
2. Place the lobster meat in a large bowl and fold in the mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper. Fold in the celery, lemon zest, lemon juice, chives, paprika, and cayenne pepper, if you like. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
3. Brush both cut sides of the split-top buns with the melted butter. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Working in batches if necessary, place the buns cut-side down in the hot skillet. Toast until golden brown on one side, about 1 minute. Flip and toast the other side until golden brown, 30 seconds to 1 minute more.
4. Divide the filling among the buns. If you like, drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with chives, black pepper, and paprika before serving.
Pairing wine with food doesn’t have to be complicated. While many people think there are strict rules, the best pairing is ultimately one you enjoy. For those who want a place to start, these simple guidelines can help. Those who are interested in honing their wine-pairing skills can consult these guidelines, courtesy of Food & Wine, WineMaker and The Wine Cellar Group.
Match the wine to the most prominent flavor in the dish, such as the sauce or seasoning. An earthy mushroom sauce pairs well with red wine, while a light lemon sauce is better suited for white wine.
Consider the body of the wine. Full-bodied wines pair well with rich, flavorful foods, while lighter wines work best with lighter fare.
Acidity also matters. High-acid wines pair nicely with acidic foods, while fatty cheeses and meats can soften the taste of a tart wine. Sparkling wines, including Champagne, are refreshing with salty foods and can cut through the richness of fried dishes. Rosé is a versatile choice that pairs well with many cheeses and charcuterie boards.
It can take time to develop a palate that blends the right wines with foods, but practice makes perfect. Plus, it’s important to remember that rules are made to be broken. If there are certain flavors or wines you prefer, then that should take precedence.
Adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel based on the novel by Dan Brown
Book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows
Based on a story and characters by Damon Runyon Music and lyrics by Frank Loesser
TFrom the Heart of Appalachia: MAMAW’S KITCHEN
By Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin
ake me back! Take me back to the simple days when front porch sittin’, creek wadin’, and playing outdoors with cousins were a typical Sunday afternoon way of life—back when you could smell Mamaw’s kitchen a mile away. Oh yes, Mamaw’s kitchen. The place where good food and family made memories that would live in our hearts forever.
Growing up in the Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia, the kitchen was the heart of the home, where families gathered to share stories and love. These treasured memories remain close to my heart and will never go away.
With these memories tucked inside my heart, and recipes hiding in my head, it is my pleasure to relive and recreate the recipes that kept our tummies full of goodness and our hearts full of love.
Mamaw’s Kitchen is a cookbook that contains 250 delicious, mouthwatering recipes from the Appalachian Mountains that were served on many tables throughout Southwest Virginia. These recipes were passed down from generation to generation. The cookbook is written in Appalachian dialect as if Mamaw was personally talking to you. Don’t worry; if you aren’t from the Appalachian Mountains and are not familiar with our dialect, I have provided a translation page for you. The cookbook is perfect for those who love our unique Appalachian recipes, and it would make for a perfect gift for those curious minds who want to learn more about our culture, or the new bride who wants to impress her husband. Most of the time, my Mamaw, and many women of the Appalachian Mountains, wouldn’t go by a recipe. They had the instinct or talent to create a delicious meal for their family without any directions to follow.
Just to whet your appetite, I would like to share a recipe with you today that my Mamaw shared with me many years ago. Mamaw’s Fried Biscuits were the most
sought-after delicacy in her kitchen. I remember rushing to her house on Sundays with my mother, hoping to be the first one there for leftover fried biscuits. Even though they weren’t fresh out of the oven, they were the greatest biscuits ever. I am grateful to have the recipe that brings back such special memories and am happy to share it with you to make your own memories. Not only are these fried biscuits a delicious morning treat, but they are perfect with fruit and chocolate, topped with ice cream and whipped cream. Enjoy!
Mamaw’s Fried Biscuits
1 ½ c Flour
1 tsp Salt
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tbsp Powdered Butter
1 tbsp Powdered Buttermilk
½ tsp Shortening
Add ya ¾ cupa water to ya mix, an’ stir ’em up real good. Heat ya grease on topa da stove ina skillet on medium. (Ina mountains, we use bacon grease.) Now, drop ya dough by tha spoonful in ya hot grease, an’ brown each side till they get done.
Mamaw’s Kitchen, a cookbook, will be available to purchase online and in stores soon. Follow us monthly at “Mamaw’s Kitchen” in Voice Magazine for updates, recipes, and tips. May you and your family also be filled with delicious food and the warmth of love.
Aging Positively
By Cindy K. Sproles
Year to year, the powers that be concoct new phrases that pertain to seniors. From phrases like in-home care to aging in place, we’ve seen trendy title after trendy title. The truth is, they all basically mean the same— seniors remaining in their home for as long as possible.
Recently, a new phrase began to pop up. Aging positively. The connotations were good. Nothing seemed sugar-coated because aging is difficult on the best of days. Still, aging positively seemed most appropriate on all levels.
Over the years, aging successfully meant being strong and vibrant into your 90s, but the truth is, aging is different for everyone. If your loved one was not fortunate enough to have good health, then being vibrant into their golden years seemed like an impossibility.
It is time to shift the thought process from growing into our senior years as a dreaded thing to appreciating and enjoying this next season of life.
• Good health – My mother will be 100 this year, and she is blessed with good health. Short of a blood pressure pill and a thyroid tablet, her medication bag is empty. Her good health is partly due to her genes, but over the years, Mother has remained mentally and physically active. She’s never been a gym person, but she loved working in the yard, and she still walks short distances daily. She keeps a stack of novels and word puzzle books by her chair, taking time daily to read and exercise her mind. Keeping your aging parent active mentally and physically turns aging into a positive.
• Eating well – Though my mother’s intake has drastically decreased, she still eats three meals daily, and they are healthy. It’s natural for the aging parent to eat less. This is part of the process, but putting good things into her body keeps her strong and filled with energy.
• Keeping hydrated – Over the years, Americans have shifted to drinking more water. My mother was drinking water at meals long before it was a “thing.” Our bodies need hydration, and keeping your loved one consuming fluids is vital to their heart, their skin, and their intestinal care. Encourage them to drink water. It’s important to remember that a regular 16 oz water bottle may seem ominous to your
aging parent, but water now comes in 8 oz. sizes. Keeping ice in a lidded glass filled with water not only keeps water cold, but as it melts, it refills the glass. It’s the little things that help our loved ones drink more.
• Social engagement – One of the hardest things to do is to keep your loved one socially engaged. People need people. We are by nature relationship-oriented. Friends provide company, the opportunity to share situations, and time to stay connected. Loneliness is the enemy of our aging parents. Keep them involved with family and friends. Encourage them to attend church, play bingo, or anything that puts them face-to-face with others their own age. Social interaction is vital.
• Mindfulness – Helping your loved one remember that they are loved and needed is vital. We all need to feel wanted and needed. Mindfulness will come from family interaction, sharing memories, and family functions.
• Spiritual – Many seniors need that spiritual part of their life fulfilled. Faith and belief draw an important aspect of life into play. Don’t deny your seniors’ need for spiritual fulfillment. You will see that when this need is fulfilled, they thrive with purpose and desire.
All these things come together to form a better view of the aging process—aging positively. Finding joy and happiness brings your loved one’s life purpose and meaning to their golden years. My mother is healthy, but she is also happy. Happiness is the key to aging positively. When our parents reach that threshold where there is more life behind them than in front, it’s important to make every moment count. Make time. Take time. Enjoy your parents while you still can, and let them enjoy you.
Cindy K. Sproles is a novelist, speaker, and conference teacher. She is the cofounder of ChristianDevotions.us and the managing editor for Straight Street Books and at www.cindysproles.com.
Warning Signs of Mental Health Issues
Education is an important component of mental health care. While mental health issues were once stigmatized, education has helped to raise awareness about mental illness and how common it is among people of all ages, countries, and socioeconomic backgrounds. One of the first steps to educate oneself or others about mental health is to learn the warning signs and symptoms that someone might be dealing with a mental illness. The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that each illness has its own symptoms, but there are some common indicators that characterize various conditions. According to the NAMI, signs of mental illness in adults and adolescents may include:
• Excessive worrying or fear
• Feeling excessively sad or low
• Confusion when thinking or difficulty concentrating and learning
• Extreme changes in mood, including uncontrollable highs or feelings of euphoria
• Feelings of irritability or anger that are prolonged or strong
• Reluctance to engage with friends and avoidance of social activities
• Difficulty understanding or relating to other people
• Alterations in sleeping habits or feeling tired or lacking energy
• Changes in eating habits, such as increased hunger or lack of appetite
• Changes in sex drive
• Difficulty perceiving reality. These difficulties may be marked by delusions or hallucinations, in which a person experiences and senses things that don’t exist in objective reality.
• Inability to perceive changes in one’s own feelings, behavior or personality, a lack of insight known as anosognosia
• Excessive consumption of substances like alcohol or drugs
• Multiple physical ailments without obvious causes, such as headaches, stomach aches, and vague and ongoing aches and pains
• Thoughts about suicide
• An inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress
• An intense fear of weight gain or concern with appearance
Parents should know that even young, school-aged children can experience mental health issues or illness. The symptoms of such conditions in young children may manifest behaviorally, which the NAMI notes occurs because kids are still learning how to identify and talk about their thoughts and emotions. Young children dealing with mental health issues may exhibit these symptoms:
• Changes in school performance
• Excessive worry or anxiety. Children may exhibit these symptoms by fighting to avoid going to bed or school.
• Hyperactive behavior
• Frequent nightmares
• Frequent disobedience or aggression
• Frequent temper tantrums
The World Health Organization estimates that more than one billion people across the globe are living with mental health conditions. More information about mental illness can be found at nami.org.
Life Care Center of Gray
Tips to Keep Your Pet in the Yard
While
time in the yard can be good for pets, there are some notable dangers pet owners must be aware of. No matter how attentive pet owners are, pets may bound off in pursuit of wildlife or simply wander off out of curiosity. Pet owners looking to avoid such scenarios can employ these measures to keep their furry friends in the yard.
Dog Parents Can Practice Pet Etiquette
I t’s important for pet parents to always be mindful of their dogs’ behavior when out and about, or even hanging closer to home. Dog owners can follow these dog etiquette pointers to be responsible pet owners.
• Spay or neuter the animal. The American Animal Hospital Association notes that intact pets have an innate drive to reproduce. That’s true for both male and female pets, and the compulsion to reproduce increases pets’ desire to roam in search of a mate. Spaying or neutering removes that hormonal desire, which is one of a handful of reasons to spay and neuter a pet.
• Quiet nuisance barking. Do not leave your dog outside unattended for a long time. This can cause what the American Kennel Club characterizes as boredom barking. Quiet your dog if he or she is barking, or bring the pet indoors.
• Aways leash your dog. Some people are not comfortable around dogs. And even if your dog is friendly, others met on walks or outings may not be. To prevent uncomfortable situations or even dog bites, it’s best to always leash your dog. Choose a leash short enough to prevent your dog from jumping on passersby.
• Erect a fence around the property. Fences are sometimes characterized as “great neighbors,” and they’re also effective at keeping some pets within a yard. Some pet owners opt for invisible fencing, but many animal advocacy organizations note this option can be inhumane. For example, VCA Animal Hospitals notes that some animals may ignore the audible signal that warns pets to remain in the yard, which then leads to the discharge
• Ask permission first. Check to see if your dog is allowed to greet people or other dogs. If someone says, “no,” respect that answer.
• Clean up after your pet. Always have waste bags at the ready so you can clean up after your dog. This also applies indoors, should your dog have an accident inside a pet-friendly store.
In Loving Memory of Jasper
• Be mindful of shopping with pets. Many stores do not allow dogs inside, but employees may be
your
of an electric stimulus similar to a shock. That can be painful to the animal. A traditional, physical fence will not harm the animal, and it will prevent the pet from seeing animals on the other side of the fence that may compel it to chase.
• Protect animals from loud noises. Wildlife and other domesticated pets often compel pets to chase, but some pets run out of fear of loud noises. Pet owners are urged to keep their pets indoors during times when loud noises can be expected. Holidays when fireworks are shot off, mornings when loud lawn mowers or leaf blowers are used, and the sound of thunder all can frighten pets and compel them to flee.
hesitant to approach pet owners about such policies. Many stores only allow trained service dogs that are Americans With Disabilities Act-compliant. Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Service animal designations are exclusive to dogs. However, a number of people have “emotional support animals,” which are not recognized as service animals. As a general rule of thumb, know a store’s policy on non-service animal pets before visiting. And, when shopping at food stores, it’s best to leave the dog at home.
• Reconsider your landscaping. Pets may run when they see wildlife enter the yard, and that wildlife then runs away upon recognition that a pet is on the chase. When choosing plants for your property, pick plants that are unlikely to attract wildlife. In addition, remove bird feeders from the property, as they tend to attract small animals like chipmunks that many pets cannot resist chasing.
• Train your dog A dog that knows basic obedience training will behave better in the community. If you are having trouble training your dog alone, consider working with an experienced dog trainer.
A runaway pet is a scenario no pet owner wants to confront. Some simple strategies can greatly reduce the risk a pet will run away when spending time in the yard.
Dogs are beloved members of the family. However, pet owners should practice proper etiquette when dogs are out and about.
Bugging You?
Sizemore Family)
August 22–29
Make the Most of a Visit to a Fair or Carnival
Patrice D. Wilkerson is an award-winning author from Virginia
Attending a fair will likely be on the agendas of individuals and families who are looking to maximize summer. Here are some tips to make the most of these excursions.
Come on a journey with little Susie as she shares why spring is her favorite season and all the fun things she loves to do, from her very first farm visit to feeding goats, riding horses, and watching the chickens lay eggs.
The Charms of US Farms Finding Out How Things Work
Students are in for surprises when Ms. Miller takes her class on a farm trip. They learn how tall corn grows, what a jujube is, where clothing materials come from, and how many stomachs a cow has. Everyone enjoys the adventure—except Billy, until Farmer Dole’s “magic” baseball trick changes his mood.
• Check for deals. Fairs start advertising their dates weeks in advance. Participants should check websites or other avenues to see if there are any discounts for buying admission tickets ahead of time. Certain days or times may feature a lower price of admission.
• Know before you go. Check the event’s website to find a schedule of activities, which vendors are available, and any other pertinent information. This helps people plan their trips, particularly for multi-day fairs or carnivals.
• Budget accordingly for fun. A day at the fair for the family is likely to be expensive. From admission to parking to ride tickets to food, there are expenses at
Jan-Carol Publishing, a small book press, brings book publishing tips, changes in the book publishing industry, introduction to authors, books, and working behind the scenes in the book publishing industry. Listen, learn, and enjoy the interviews with different authors.
