Georgia Mountain Laurel April 2019

Happy Easter!

Spring has finally arrived and I for one could not be happier. I hope you’re enjoying the warmer temps and buds bursting forth. A time of renewal and hope, spring offers ample opportyunities to get outside and soak in the sunshine, stretch those legs and plant something! I always want to do that before the ground warms and I am cautioned to wait until after Easter.

There are an abundance of festivals happening across our region this month. We have put together a list of them for you, but choosing which ones to attend may present more of a problem.

My advice is to squeeze as many in as you can.

This issue was created with area artists in mind.

We love to support local artists and crafters.

There is no shortage of talent here in the mountains. Resourcefulness runs in our veins and we can make something useful and beautiful out of almost anything! Celebrate Clayton is a great place to find examples of that and it will be held in downtown Clayton the last weekend of April. Hope to see you there.

Thank you for enjoying our magazine and visiting our advertisers.

Tracy

April 2019 • Volume Sixteen • Issue Four Publisher/Editor - Tracy McCoy Art Director - Dianne VanderHorst Graphic Artist - Nikki Dunbar Office Manager/ Account Executive - Cindi Freeman Account Executive - Melynda Hensley Account Executive - Calin DeFoor Photographer/Writer - Peter McIntosh Writer - Luke McCoy Contributing Writers: Joel Hitt, Beth Frierberg, Karla Jacobs, Mark Holloway, Susan Brewer, Steve Jarrard, MD, Lisa Harris, Kitty Flewelling, John Shivers, Randy Sells, Emory Jones, Lorie Thompson, Beck Peterson, Carlton Chamblin, Jan Timms, Pastor Michael Rogers, Kendall Rumsey, Jennifer Marcellino, Pete Cleveland

Georgia Mountain Laurel Mailing: PO Box 2218, Clayton, Georgia 30525 Office: 2511 Highway 441, Mountain City, Georgia 30562 706-782-1600 • www.gmlaurel.com Copyright 2019 by Rabun’s Laurel Inc. All rights reserved. The Georgia Mountain Laurel Magazine is published twelve times per year. Reproduction without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publishers and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication subject to GML magazine’s right to edit. Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, photographs and drawings. Every effort has been made to assure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither Laurel magazine or any of its staff is responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. The Georgia Mountain Laurel maintains a Christian focus throughout their magazine. Rabun’s Laurel, Inc. reserves the right to refuse content or advertising for any reason without explanation.

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In This Issue

44 46

Arts & Entertainment

A Taste

Affairs to Remember

Life & Leisure

10 14 16 20

22 26 28

Cover Artist - Shannon L. Webb North Georgia Arts Guild Joel Roger Yonce - Artist Celebrate Clayton Festival

Mountain Happenings Event Calendar May is the Month for Festivals Rhapsody in Rabun Goes To...

Outdoors 32 34 36 38

Adventure Out Hitt the Outdoors Paws 4 Life Out of the Blue Ridge

Faith in Christ 40 42

Bless Your Heart River Garden

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48 52 54 55

56 58 60 62

The Gift of Thoughts & Prayers Rabun 4 the Gospel

Bon Appetit The Family Table Mama G’s Celebrates 20 Years Farm 2 Cocktail with Carlton

Notes from a Southern Kitchen By the Way Lovin’ the Journey Rabun County Historical Society

Mountain Homes 64 68

Poss Realty Featured Home Harry Norman Luxury Lake & Mountains Featured Home

Health & Wellness 72 76

Live Healthy & Be Well How Your Body Can Heal Your Soul

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Cover Artist

Shannon Webb

Following the Path

by Tracy McCoy

W

hen meeting Shannon Webb, it doesn’t take long to realize that there is something different about her. Shannon lives aware and purposeful. She finds a real connection with nature and that is the subject of most of her photographs. The image on our cover is a direct reflection of her style and while seeing beyond the lens comes naturally, much thought is put into framing an image to capture the essence of her subject. Trees fascinate her and she includes them in many of her images.

It is always interesting to find out how photographers and artists get started. Many I talk to are highly trained but then there are those who stumble upon their passion almost by accident, this is part of Shannon’s story.

Shannon was still using a flip-phone, actually preferred by many people over the smart phone. She didn’t own a camera, she did however see life through a “different lens”.

For Christmas three years ago her parents gave her a smart phone and it opened up a whole new world for Shannon.

“Self-taught” accurately describes Shannon, she has always possessed the ability to find what doesn’t belong, to recognize the unusual and appreciate it. Now, she puts that gift to work behind the lens of her smart phone and shares it with those who follow her on her Shannon L. Webb Photography page on Facebook. She also prints her images and in fact they will be on display at the Rabun County Library this month (April).

Photography offers a reprieve from the stresses of life, one Shannon finds refreshing. She credits Peter McIntosh for allowing her to sit in on one of his classes, where she learned some terminology and basic techniques that have improved her skills. Shannon refers to her entrance into the photography world as “coming through the backdoor”. She says if she had not come that way she may never have discovered her talent for it. It is like a grand exploration for her daily, discovering new things and it has enhanced her view of the world.

“Photography gives me mindfulness. Creative people are intentional and live in the moment. It allows you to tap into yourself and even be still and meditate on an image.” Shannon states. “I have taken over 14,000 photographs. Many of trees, which I see as living, breathing things that each tell their own story. Each separate, yet somehow communicating under ground.” she continued. “I find solace in them.”

What is on the horizon for Shannon? She is giving thought to attending photography classes at North Georgia Technical College to study under photography instructor and professional Jim Loring. She is eager to learn and excited to continue this journey.

How did Shannon Webb land in Rabun County? Born in Tallahasse, she moved to Nashville, Tennessee to work in the music industry.

From there she lived in Atlanta for a while before settling in Asheville, North Carolina. She says the cities became too large for her; she longed for the postcard beauty she has found in the North Georgia Mountain town of Clayton. She is grateful for the community she has found here. The people, places and things that make it so inviting have prompted her to call herself “lucky” to live here. Her trademark donkey logo was sparked by an animal that she finds so joyful, just one of many that she has encountered on her path, the path she will continue to follow.

I invite you to look for Shannon L. Webb Photography on Facebook and watch for her work around town. If you see something you like, e-mail her at ShannonLWebbphotography@gmail.com

April 2019 - 11

Finding

Art

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Fine Art Paintings, Photos, Pottery, Wood Crafts and Twig Furniture Random hours, Weekends12-5 & by Appt.: 706 424-7322 8488 OLD 441 S, LAKEMONT GA 30552

Moonrise on the Tallulah River, Oil on Canvas 30x20

by Artist Owner Virginia McClure, gray frame available

www.LakemontGallery.com and Facebook.com/Lakemont Gallery

April 2019 - 13

North Georgia Arts Guild Military Visionary: Eric Nyros and Portraits

By Susan Brewer

I

t’s impossible to say what the experience of three tours of duty in Iraq for U.S. Army veterans is, but interviewing portrait painter, Eric Nyros, was an invitation to wonder. Eric is both Army and artist—a combination that covers a wide, contrasting set of skills, traits, and temperament. The artist within him has worked to reckon the world, to envision it, but he has also lived a military life embedded in military discipline and structure. These sets of characteristics began in opposition. Eventually, they merged into one.

After a single year of college, Eric enlisted for his first four-year tour of duty.

When he got out, he studied printmaking in the University of Florida’s art program. He believed he had a gift, so he decided to test his talent by moving to New York City. He unpacked his art dreams there and knocked on gallery doors, but the events he hoped would happen, didn’t. He returned to school.

He finished a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at the University of Florida and began earning a master’s in printmaking. From this vantage point, the art world seemed strewn with the politics of personality. The doubts planted in New York grew within this mire until the lure of the art world was replaced by a desire to “get real.” He enrolled for a second time in the Army the year before 9-11.

For a combined twenty-one years, Eric served this country, including three deployments. Five years ago, his work in the armed forces came to an end.

His first love, the “art bug,” took hold once more. The gift of his visionary skills and unique way of seeing resumed as his primary focus. With the help of wife and partner, Kay, he explored his art options before focusing on painting portraits in oils. Kay is his structure, his critic. She secures home base while he journeys within himself to bring these portraits to life, images that present compassion and beauty outfitted by his military experience. There is command in the sureness of the rendition of his subjects, a strength in his depictions of the people he paints; most are those he knows or loves.

I invite you to think for a moment—what is military life like? Army jargon

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offers some insights: “Come up on the net” means keep the rest of your unit informed about your thinking. “Don’t get wrapped around the axle” references the danger of vehicles getting stopped or destroyed when wires hog-tie the drive train; this means steer clear of trouble and keep moving toward what’s at stake. Finally, “Why the sky is blue.” The sky is blue because the Infantry is blue; soldiers wear blue regimental ornaments—blue cords, blue discs, and blue badges. Those are the Infantry’s colors because God loves the Infantry. After a visit with Eric and Kay, another message about Army “blues” came into focus: the hardships, the costs which are levied on those who serve in the military are high. Eric is doing battle against forces, still: his foes now—seizures and anxiety.

Last year at the urging of Kay, Eric entered the 2018 Atlanta Portrait Society juried show and won First Place. Judge Ellen Cooper said of his arresting portrait of “Bo” who worked as Eric and Kay’s handyman in Louisiana, “There is a beautiful connection in the composition between the shapes and visual elements and the man and his personality.” The composition harvests visual tension and drama. The action of the light is astonishing. Central to its success is the portrait of a man whom otherwise we may have failed to notice; he expands the vista of our world here at home.

The care and detail of Eric’s work breathes life into the compositions. His portraits convey a dynamic, powerful “essence,” an essence that achieves a balance of resemblance and artistry. His portraits grant the freedom to recognize those loved as well as explore the identity of those we don’t even know. Eric nurtures this appreciation perhaps because of vision gained while on duty—what he gained sight of while in combat. His portraits are works to cherish. Contact him by calling (337) 348-4005; email ericnyros@ hotmail.com, or find his work on Instagram at @ericnyros.net.

A member of the North Georgia Ats Guild since 2016, Susan spent almost twenty years in branch banking with SunTrust Bank in Atlanta. She began writing for the Georgia Mountain Laurel and The Clayton Tribune about guild members and events in April of 2017. The writing brings together her love of art and curiosity about people and the world.

April 2019 - 15

Joel Roger Yonce Paints Himself a Future

By John Shivers The journeys we take in life and the experiences we encounter often lead us to destinations we might never have envisioned. Such could be said of Roger Yonce, who lives today outside Gainesville. This Jackson County, Georgia native grew up in a working country lifestyle.

Later, as an adult, he hired on to the textile mill in Gainesville, where he worked at several different jobs before he retired. And along the way, he and his wife, Margaret, became parents to two daughters, Caroline and Arrahwannah.

It was about ten years ago that Roger watched a show on public television hosted by the late Bob Ross. Bob was an artist who insisted that ordinary people could learn to paint, and could turn out a finished painting in an hour’s time. This was a premise that Ross demonstrated for his viewers on each and every show, and Yonce became a believer.

“I could do that,” he told himself. He purchased the needed canvas, paints, brushes and other tools, and struck out on his maiden voyage as an artist. One painting done, Roger took a critical look at his first attempt, and declared it something less than what he’d envisioned. He stuck the painting back in a closet and forgot about his new-found pastime.

Fast-forward about ten years. Many things have changed.

Margaret was also Roger’s best friend and soulmate. She had worked for many years at the Hall County Courthouse, but her health had become compromised. It was then that daughter Caroline Keener, and her husband, Jack, who is a Rabun County native, moved Roger and Margaret into their home in Gainesville. The couple settled into a super comfortable basement apartment in their daughter’s home, and shortly afterwards, Margaret passed away.

Roger was inconsolable.

When Caroline began cleaning out the home where her parents had lived, she came across her father’s first

16 - April 2019

painting attempt. This was something he needed to pursue, she decided. She bought him the needed supplies and an easel, which they set up in front of a large window in that basement apartment, that looks out on a pretty view, and provides ample light. It’s here that Roger now sits day after day, working to perfect his talent. And along the way, he’s also turning out paintings that would make Bob Ross proud.

Bob’s specialty was landscapes and nature scenes, and Roger shares that love. The majority of his works fall into that category, and these creations on canvas have given him a way to work through his grief. But as he completes painting after painting, he continues to improve on his artistic skills. His daughters have accompanied him to art classes, and he has found a new purpose for his retirement years.

Ah, yes, his retirement years. Did we mention that Roger Yonce will be 82 years old in April? Just goes to prove that you’re never too young to take off in a new direction. His next goal is to find an outlet for his work. But in the meantime, if you’re looking for Roger, check first by the big window in the basement apartment, where the artist is at work on his craft. Or drop him a line at yoncepaintings@gmail.com.

April 2019 - 17

18 - April 2019

Annual Celebrate Clayton Art Festival - Celebrating Fine Art Since 1999 Hurray, Hurray – It’s time for Celebrate Clayton!

On April 27 & 28 our town will host our most popular art and fine crafts festival known simply as Celebrate Clayton. Our premier spring event features the Artist Market on Main Street, Live Music at the Rock House, Kid’s Corner in Veteran’s Park, and festival food throughout.

North and South Main becomes a pedestrian way with tents lining the street. Shop the Artist Market where over 100 artists provide you with the best art and fine crafts from across the region. Painting, photography, pottery, folk-art, jewelry, and much more. Many favorites are returning, to name a few: Roger and Gail Marcengill - forged iron and copper work; Mike Wilson – handmade knives; Deborah Weinelt – copper jewelry; Jami Pederson – pottery; Beth and Butcher Martofel – metal yard art; Jerry Williamson – inlaid wooden boxes; Danny Young – photography; and Alan Young – dry brush

watercolor. Lots of artists new to the festival are exhibiting this year - too many to list them all. You’ll have to come, meet them for yourself, and congratulate the winners of Best in Show, Judges Choice, and Producers Choice awards.

Relax to live music on the Rock House lawn. The great lineup this year includes several performers returning to the Rock House stage: Charity, Mat Fried, Rabun County High School Band Ensemble, and Michael Jacobs. You’ll also hear many musicians who are new to the festival: Jack Ball - banjo; Dart Fifer - steel drums; and singers, Doug Weiss, Richard Tunkle, and Martha and Gary Alexander. Many thanks to Hank Belew who will be providing our sound system once again.

Kids will have a fun art experience in the Veterans Park guided

by RCHS students and sponsored by the North Georgia Arts Guild artists. They can be turned into “wild animals” by face painter, Kristina Robak, and learn to play cigar box guitar with Mountain Man Music, Les Barnett.

Hungry? Treat the family to yummy festival food. A & P Food Truck serves up burgers, dogs, Philly cheese steak and chicken tenders; A & L Shaved Ice also has soft pretzels: and Clayton Rotary will be handing out free ice cream. The restaurants on Main Street offer their usual yummy lunch and dinner items – you’ll find everything from beer, pizza, and barbeque to fine dining with fine wine.

Local restaurants and wineries have donated gift certificates.

A $1 raffle ticket buys you a chance to win free food at one of your favorite places! Even better, $5 will get you 6 tickets.

You don’t need to be present to win. You can buy tickets throughout the festival, or now at the Clayton Tribune.

20 - April 2019

Celebrate Clayton is hosted by the North Georgia Arts Guild, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Proceeds from the festival fund scholarships for local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops and talented Rabun County art students. All donations are tax-deductible. For more information, visit CelebrateClayton. com or contact Kathy Ford, Celebrate Clayton Chairperson 706-212-9958.

Mountain Happenings STEPHENS COUNTY May 4th Toast of Toccoa Downtown Toccoa Info: mainstreettoccoa.com May 18th Pancake Breakfast & Historical Talk Traveler’s Rest Historic Site Toccoa Info: www.gastateparks.org/travelersrest The Ritz Theater Toccoa Info: www.ritztheatretoccoa.com April 12th - Mark Nizer 4D April 13th Southern Gospel Music Homeland Boys May 11th Southern Gospel Music - Georgia May 17th - The Huntertones HABERSHAM COUNTY April 13th Easter Bunny Pictures Mauldin House, Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220 April 26th Sip and Stroll / Friday Night Live Downtown Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220 May 4th and each Saturday through September Clarkesville Market Place Old Courthouse Parking Lot Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220 May 18th Mountain Laurel Festival Historic Square & Pitts Park Clarkesville Info: 706.754.2220 May 18th FREE Concert - Aaron Tippin Downtown Cornelia Info: 706.778.8585 Habersham Community Theater Clarkesville Info: 706.839.1315 habershamtheater.org April 5th - 7th, 11th - 14th Play: “Deadly Murder” May 30th - June 2nd, 6th - 9th “I Do, I Do”

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Grant Street Music Room Clarkesville Info: 706.754.3541 www.grantstreetmusicroom.com April 6th RIVAL - Classic Rock

April 19th - 21st Easter Festival May 24th - 27th Memorial Day Weekend at the Zoo

April 13th Country River Band with special guests The Rocky Creek Band

SNCA Sautee Nacoochee Info: 706.878.3300 www.snca.org

WHITE COUNTY

April 2nd and each Tuesday Basic Drawing Class

April 13th Magical Easter Eggstravaganza BabyLand General Hospital Cleveland Info: 706.865.2171

April 3rd and each Wednesday Intermediate Watercolors

May 4th WineFest Habersham Winery Helen Info: 706.878.9463

April 25th - 28th “Cheever” - Story of Folk Potter Cheaver Meaders

May 11th Spring Bierfest Festhalle, Helen Info: 706.878.1908 May 25th The Crusher Vineyard & Trail Race Yonah Mountain Vineyard Cleveland Info: 706.878.5522 May 25th Bavarianfest Festhalle, Helen Info: 706.878.1908 May 30th - June 1st Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race Helen Info: 706.878.2271 Smithgall Woods State Park Helen Info: 706.878.3087 April 6th - Flies and Fly Water April 27th - Bee-ginner’s Course May 18th - Eco-Kids Pollinators North Georgia Zoo Cleveland Info: 706.348.7279 www.northgeorgiazoo.com April 2nd - 14th Springtime Festival

April 6th and the first Saturday of each month Blacksmithing Demonstration

May 25th Pig Out and Pickin’ BBQ Unicoi State Park & Lodge Helen Info: 706.865.5356 April 27th and each Saturday Saturday Evening Music Concert Series May 25th Beach Opening Hardman Farm Historic Site Sautee Nacoochee Info: 706.878.1077 April 6th - Sweep the Hooch April 13th / May 18th Farm Animal Fun Day Emory Jones Book Signing April 20th - Natural Egg Dying April 27th - Farm Camp May 11th - Annual Spring Concert RABUN COUNTY April 5th - 7th “Always A Bridesmaid” North Georgia Community Players Dillard Playhouse Dillard Info: 706.212.2500 April 6th and each Saturday Bluegrass on the Square Tallulah Falls Opera House Tallulah Falls Info: 706.212.0241

April 6th Save Georgia’s Hemlocks Help Clinic & Volunteer Workshop Historic Rock House Clayton Info: 706.782.5271 April 8th / May 13th Junior Chef Afterschool Foodbank of Northeast Georgia Clayton Info: 706.782.0780 April 12th - 14th Trailblaze Challenge for Make-A-Wish Clayton Info: TrailblazeGA.org April 12th - 14th Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage Rabun County Civic Center Clayton Info: 706.782.5271

April 19th Sunset Easter Egg Hunt April 20th, 21st, 27th, 28th May 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th Aesthetic Water Release April 20th Get the Buzz on Bees Earth Day Celebration May 18th Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike Hatch Camp and Art Farm Clayton Info: 706.782.3747 April 6th Fly Fishing 101 Spring Concert Opener April 20th Charity Fly Fishing Tournament May 4th - Spring Fling

April 20th Easter Egg Hunt Hillside Orchard Farms Lakemont Info: 706.782.2776

May 18th - Concert

April 26th - 28th 2019 Georgia Bigfoot Conference Rabun County Civic Center Clayton Info: GeorgiaBigfootConference.com

April 5th Flat Reed Chair Bottoming

April 27th and each Saturday through October Clayton Farmers’ Market Food Bank of NE Georgia Clayton Info: 706.782.0780

April 20th - Beginning Spinning

April 27th - 28th Celebrate Clayton Main Street, Clayton Info: www.celebrateclayton.com May 4th Old School Garden 2nd Annual Spring Plant Sale 76W City Hall Complex grounds Clayton Info: 706.782.9730 May 4th Cinco de Moonrise Celebration Moonrise Distillery Clayton Info: 844.994.4759 Tallulah Gorge State Park Tallulah Falls Info: 706.754.7981 April 6th Whitewater Watching Hike April 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th Whitewater Release

Foxfire Mountain City Info: 706.746.5828 foxfire.org

April 6th - Flintknapping April 13th - Girl Scout Day April 27th Soap Making Telling the Truth about Lye Soap May 3rd - 4th Broom Making May 16th - Plant Walk May 17th - 18th Beginning Weaving May 18th - Primitive Cooking May 24th - Rush Chair Bottoming TOWNS COUNTY May 31st - June 2nd North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival Mayors Park, Young Harris Info: 706.897.6179 Crane Creek Vineyards Young Harris Info: 706.379.1236 April 5th and each Friday Friday Evening Tapas & Acoustic May 18th - Clusterfest continued

April 2019 - 23

Mountain Happenings Young Harris College Young Harris Info: 706.379-4307 April 4th YHC Concert Band Concert April 7th YHC Percussion Ensemble Concert April 12th - 13th Acapalooza April 15th YHC Jazz Band Concert April 16th YHC Guitar Ensemble Recital April 26th, May 3rd “Rock the Dome II” at the Rollins Planetarium April 30th YHC Pops on the Plaza May 3rd, 5th Mountain Community Chorus Concert May 17th “Planet Nine” at the Rollins Planetarium Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Hiawassee Info: 706.896.4191 georgiamountainfairgrounds.com April 6th Hank Williams Jr. April 13th Easter Egg Hunt April 13th Big Daddy Weave - Alive Tour May 17th -18th Georgia Mountain Eggfest May 18th Outlaws and Renegades Tour with Travis Tritt, Cadillac Three, and Scooter Brown Band

April 25th Trout Dinner Fundraiser Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: 828.837.5414 May 3rd Fishing Rodeo for Veterans Chattahoochee National Forrestl Fish Hatchery, Suches Info: 706.838.4723 May 4th and each Saturday Live Music Paradise Hills Resort and Spa Blairsville Info: 706.745.7483 May 11th FOCUS Festival 2019 Union County Farmers’ Market Blairsville Info: 877.745.5789 May 11th Downtown Outdoor Movie Night Downtown Square, Blairsville Info: 706.347.3503 May 18th and the third Saturday of the month Cruise-In On The Square Downtown, Blairsville Info: 863.414.5276 May 25th Memorial Day Parade On the Square, Blairsville Info: 706.745.6341 May 25th - 26th 2019 Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival Downtown on the Square Blairsville Info: 877.745.5789 CLAY COUNTY, NC April 20th Easter Egg Hunt Hayesville Info: 828.389.3704

UNION COUNTY April 6th Back to the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s Dance Haralson Memorial Civic Center Blairsville Info: 706.400.2724 April 12th - 13th Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival Union County Fine Arts Center Blairville Info: www.gamountainstoryfest.org April 13th Blairsville Easter Egg Hunt Meeks Park, Blairsville Info: 706.439.6074

24 - April 2019

John C. Campbell Folk School Brasstown Info: 828.837.2775 April 2nd and each Tuesday Contra and Square Dance April 5th and each Friday Night Friday Night Concerts May 11th - Friends and Family Day Peacock Performing Arts Center Hayesville Info: 828.389.2787 thepeacocknc.org April 13th - Radio Zydeco

April 20th Song Writers Showcase 26 May 24th - 26th May 31st - June 2nd “The Music Man” MACON COUNTY, NC May 10th - 12th Mother’s Day Gemboree Robert C Carpenter Community Building, Franklin Info: 828.349.2090 May 11th Airing of the Quilts Downtown Franklin Info: 828.524.7766 Smoky Mountain Center for Performing Arts Franklin Info: 866.273.4615; 828.524.1598 GreatMountainMusic.com April 5th - Billy Ray Cyrus April 12th- 13th A Glimpse of His Last Days April 26th - An Evening of One-Acts April 27th Sisters: Dynamic Harmonies & A Deep Love for Christ May 2nd - Trace Adkins May 18th Candid Camera Live: Eight Decades of Smiles May 25th - Dailey and Vincent Cowee School - Arts & Heritage Ctr. Franklin Info: 828.349.1945 April 15th - Growing Native Plants May 20th Cherokee Wars of the Cowee Valley Highlands Performing Arts Center Highlands Info: highlandspac.net April 5th / May 10th Great Art on Screen Series April 13th National Theatre Live: All About Eve May 11th Metropolitan Opera - Live via Satellite - Dialogues Des Carmelites May 23rd - 26th May 30th - June 2nd “Calendar Girls” Highlands Cashiers Players

April 2019 - 25

May is the Month for Festivals Toast of Toccoa May 4, 2019

T

he 3rd Annual Toast of Toccoa will be held Saturday, May 4th from 12:00pm until 5:00pm in historic downtown Toccoa, Georgia. The event will feature more than 50 artisans from the Currahee Artists Guild and other regional arts organizations. There will be live music, craft beer, regional wine tastings, and local food. There will also be a Classic Car Show Cruise-In, hosted by Currahee Cruisers and Miles Through Time, featuring dozens of restored vintage automobiles parked along Doyle Street between Sage and Alexander Streets.

Admission to the event itself is free. Tokens will be sold for craft beer and regional vineyard wine tasting purchases.

More information at 706.282.3309, www.mainstreettoccoa.com

Airing of the Quilts May 11, 2019

S

aturday, May 11th, beginning at 9:00am will be the Airing of Quilts.

Sponsored by over 30 Downtown Franklin, North Carolina Merchants, the Airing of the Quilts is an outdoor quilt show that showcases a timeless piece of our Appalachian heritage. See quilts displayed all throughout Historic Downtown Franklin as businesses and homeowners will be hanging quilts from their store fronts and porches that will create an unbelievable burst of spring color throughout the Town of Franklin.

In addition, the Airing of the Quilts celebration will feature Quilting Vendors, Arts & Crafts Vendors, Quilting Demonstrations, Great Giveaways, and much, much more! www.townoffranklinnc.com for more information or call 828.524.2516

Mountain Laurel Festival May 18, 2019

O

n Saturday, May 18th from 10:00am - 5:00pm Clarkesville, Georgia will be the site of the 57th Annual Mountain Laurel Festivial. Located in Pitts Park and on the Square, it is the state’s oldest festival and offers great crafts and original art, delicious food, free concerts, an antique auto show, and children’s activities.

The time-honored festival began in 1962 and takes its inspiration from the mountain laurel flower which grows wild in the Northeast Georgia Mountains. It has evolved and grown through the years, bringing in multiple art vendors, food vendors and musical performers, as well as thousands of tourists and locals.

For more information on the festival, contact 706.754.4216 or visit www. clarkesvillega.com.

26 - April 2019

2019 Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival May 25 - 26, 2019

T

he 2019 Blairsville Arts, Crafts, and Music Festival will take place on Saturday, May 25th and Sunday, May 26th around the Square in Blairsville, Georgia. There will be over fifty arts & crafts vendors from around the region along with some delicious mountain fair food, and not to mention, the music.

The festivities will begin on Friday night with music inside the Historic Courthouse from 6:00pm - 10:00 pm. On Saturday there will be music inside the Courthouse from 12:00pm - 5:00pm along with four “jam session” tents around the courthouse lawn for anybody to pull up a chair and jam. On Sunday you will find even more music inside the Courthouse from 11:00am - 5:00pm!

For more information 877.745.5789 or visitblairvillega.com

North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival May 31, 2019 - June 2, 2019

M

ayors Park in Young Harris, Georgia is the site of the North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival. For three days the festival provides attendees with the opportunity to explore through more than 50 fine arts and crafts exhibits, tap their shoes to live music, and eat some serious seafood and sweet treats. There will be a beer and wine garden, car show, and a silent auction to benefit the Towns County Food Bank.

This event was awarded the top twenty events for 2018 by the Southeast Tourism Society. northgeorgiahighlandsseafoodfestival.com for more information about the festival or call 706.897.6179

Don’t miss Opening Day of the Clayton Farmers Market Saturday - April 27, 2019 9am - 12:30pm Located in the Covered Bridge Shopping Center parking lot on the west side of US Hwy. 441 in Clayton 46 Plaza Way - Clayton, GA 30525

(706) 490-3837 for more information April 2019 - 27

“Building the Future, One Family at a Time.”

R

hapsody of Rabun is pleased to announce that its recipient for 2019 is Habitat for Humanity® of Rabun County. This choice is especially exciting as this is Habitat’s 30th anniversary in Rabun County and Habitat was the very first recipient of Rhapsody in Rabun in 1991. More than a coincidence! The gala event celebrating this partnership will be held on August 10, 2019 at the Rabun County Civic Center. Mark your calendar.

A little about Rhapsody in Rabun: In 1990 local business owner, Billy Johnson dreamed of starting an organization that would help the people of Rabun County. He shared his idea with Andy Anderson, President of Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School and Mary Ann Rich, a realtor and accountant. Through their enthusiasm, other local residents--Sally Broaddrick, a nurse, Gay Houser, and Virginia Godfrey, --joined the planning. The result was ‘Rhapsody in Rabun’, an organization that would partner with a local non-profit group that was in need of financial help. This loosely structured organization of willing volunteers embarked on a journey to serve Rabun County.

In 1991, Rhapsody in Rabun chose their first recipient, Habitat for Humanity®. In order to build a house, Habitat for Humanity® needed to raise $10,000. Though organizers were nervous about raising that sum, with great preparation and many volunteers, Rhapsody in Rabun not only raised the necessary funds, but also received much deserved attention. In subsequent years, the organization began to formalize.

Rhapsody turned to well-known artist Mary George Poss to have a logo created. A mission statement was developed: “Rabun Rhapsody is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to raise funds for distribution to charitable organizations in Rabun County, Georgia. The funds are raised through an annual event known as ‘Rhapsody in Rabun’”. Since the first event in 1991, when $10,000 seemed unattainable, Rhapsody in Rabun has raised an astounding total of $1,315,215.20 for Rabun County charities. Thank you, Billy, Andy, Mary Ann and all the volunteers who have worked on Rhapsody for those 28 gala events. Remember, mark your calendars for this year’s Black-Tie affair on August 10th.

This year’s recipient of the funds raised by Rhapsody in Rabun, Habitat for Humanity of Rabun County® serves to select and support homeowners, organize volunteers and coordinate home building for eligible families who are selected by Habitat’s Board each year. Since 1989 Habitat has partnered with a broad coalition of individuals, churches and businesses to build 34 homes for deserving families. In addition to signing and committing to paying back a no-interest mortgage, each homeowner must take a course in Home Ownership and provide a required amount of sweat-equity during the construction of their home. In this way, the homeowners become invested in their home and their community.

Habitat’s goal has been to build one new house a year. They accomplish this with funds generated by the payments to mortgages by recipient families, by funds raised from the

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ReStore, with private donations, by donations of equipment and appliances from local businesses, and from an annual fundraising event. In addition, during the construction phase, Habitat volunteers assist in the building of the house. They perform tasks such as framing, installing roof trusses, siding, appliances; caulking, painting, etc. Typically, the volunteers work two mornings a week amid organized chaos, laughter, good donuts, friendship and plenty of hard work.

Rhapsody in Rabun is an annual event held at the Rabun County Civic Center. Imagine a balmy summer evening with energizing live music for dancing and listening, an unmatched selection of tantalizing food provided by many local restaurants, the premier silent auction of the region with carefully selected items provided by local artists and shops – imagine outbidding your friends and taking home that beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece of local art or a gift certificate to your favorite local shop or restaurant– a fun and raucous live auction where the competition is half of the fun as you bid on unique experiences provided by local residences and businesses. Imagine leaving this event uplifted from the comradery and friendship you have experienced and, most importantly, from the fact that you have made a difference for Rabun County by: Building the Future, One Family At a Time For more information or to make reservations please visit our website www.RhapsodyinRabun.com.

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April 2019 - 31

Adventure Out

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Station Cove Falls

By Peter McIntosh

n this adventure, we’re heading over to South Carolina for a nice easy hike to a beautiful cascade called Station Cove Falls. And this really is an easy hike, about 1/2 mile each way to a lovely 60 foot high, stepped cascade with lots of space around the base of the falls to share a snack with a friend and take in the beauty. This waterfall is a part of Station Mountain, which gets its name from Oconee Station, originally a military compound and later a trading post. Oconee Station is now

a state historic site that offers a unique look at 18th and 19th century South Carolina. There are two structures remaining today: Oconee Station, a stone blockhouse used as an outpost by the S.C. State Militia from about 1792 to 1799, and the William Richards House. You history buffs make note.

The trailhead to Station Cove Falls is somewhat nondescript, just an open parking area on the side of the highway with small wooden information bulletin board. The footpath is wide and descends gently through a mixed forest of hardwoods and conifers. About 1/4 mile in, look for a wetland bog below you on the left, which his sort of hard to see through the trees. This could be a good birding spot. (Don’t forget those binoculars) A little further along, the trail crosses a small foot bridge and then begins to ascend gently. Soon you’re

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walking along a stream and you can hear the sound of rushing water. The waterfall now comes into view and, after crossing the stream on some well placed stepping stones, there you are, Station Cove Falls, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall. As I said before, the base of this cascade is flat and open with lots of sitting rocks to rest and enjoy this natural wonder. And you may want to bring along a wildflower book as a variety of wildflowers bloom along this trail in the spring and summer such as Trillium, Mayapple, Wild Iris, Cinqfoil, Bluets, and many more. Happy Hiking!

And now without delay-pril, here’s my poem for April: Springtime’s here and what could be finer, Thank a nice nature walk in South Carolina.

‘Tis a good time to get out and welcome the season, Station Cove Falls is sure to be pleasin’.

Getting there: From Highway 441 and Highway 76 in Clayton, go east on Highway 76 E for 10 miles to Chattooga Ridge Road on the left. Chattooga Ridge Road is two miles past the bridge over the Chattooga River. Stay on Chattooga Ridge Road for 5 miles before coming to stop sign at Whetstone Road. Turn right on Whetstone and go 5 miles until road ends at Hwy 28. (Nice old store here if you need a beverage or snack.) Turn right on Highway 28 which takes you to Walhalla, SC. About one mile on the other side of Walhalla, look for SC Hwy 11 exit ramp on right. At stop sign, turn left under bridge and go 6.3 miles to Oconee Station Road on left. This intersection is well marked. Turn left and go 2.4 miles on Oconee Station Road to pull out on the left. And FYI, the trailhead is about 1/4 mile past the Oconee Station Historic Site.

To see more of Peter’s photos or if you have a question or comment, visit: www.mcintoshmountains.com

April 2019 - 33

Hitt the Outdoors The Amazing Migration of Birds

By Joel Hitt

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y first exposure to the natural world was to discover birds. But of course, I found quickly that I couldn’t be a “birder” without also being aware of the plant world. I used to kid with folks that after 25 years of birding, my neck arthritis set in, resulting in my having to take frequent breaks from looking up. So I spent some of my field time with my head facing downward to relief the discomfort. Surely enough, it was then that I discovered all

those plants down there! No binoculars needed! Truth is, the worlds of birds and plants are intertwined tightly. You can’t fully understand one without paying close attention to the other!

And so as Spring begins knocking at our door, I always feel a rush of excitement as I await the onset of various natural events. For most folk, this anticipation is associated primarily with plants, and for good reason. Spring in the Blue Ridge is just amazing! These include the herbs and vegetables in our own gardens, to the floral displays among forest herbs, shrubs, and trees.

But as a naturalist, I step back to include the largest possible picture I can of nature and its many interconnections at work.

With bird life, that means that plant growth is coupled with changes in animal functions. Newborns demand increased food sources; fledging new generations results in demands for new locations for nests or other forms of housing. So, where birds are concerned, that brings us to the topic of migration. The evolution of migratory flight has enabled the bird world to create and sustain many times the numbers of life than would otherwise have been possible!

“My dogs move away from the area rugs at our entrance doorway during the winter--is that what you mean by migration?” When I presented migration as a group topic once, this gentleman’s quip just about brought down the room with laughter!

After the audience recomposed, my comeback was a feeble effort to state that at least we know that dogs are not stupid!

Avian migration, however, demonstrates much more.

Migration means that flock after flock of several hundred sandhill cranes weighing just 6-7 pounds each can leave a winter home in the Florida wetlands and “trumpet” their way to breeding grounds in upper Midwestern US and Southern Canada. They fly in late winter over a period of 4-6 weeks, dropping down at favorite stopovers each afternoon.

This crane migration is going on as I write. When the chemicals in their brains give the go-ahead they assemble at the various assigned areas used year after year in the Southern U.S., always around wetlands. Each day hundreds and thousands of these birds do their running lift-offs, much like a squadron of airplanes. They will set down for lateday grooming and feeding and then sleep. They reach their northern breeding grounds over several weeks’ time. Then in the autumn of the year, they will make the reverse trip, with one major change. The parents will fly back with a new generation of sandhills born over the summer, and ready to embark on this trip they don’t understand. They just know the urge to fly south is irresistible.

First winter yellow-bellied sapsucker after migrating to Rabun County last fall. It will migrate north for the spring mating season. The drilled holes in the sourwood tree are from sapsuckers during previous winters.

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At the other extreme in bird sizes, there is more amazement waiting for us. For the ruby-throated hummingbird, migration means these birds weigh in at a mere 1/6 oz. each, and yet complete flights from their nesting sites (all the eastern U.S. as well as Canadian provinces west to Alberta) to their

Juvenile Ruby-throated Hummingbird born last summer, now long gone to Central America for the winter. overwintering sites in Central America, especially Costa Rica. The ruby-throat you see pictured was using a feeder at my home last October. She was preparing for her first migration to Costa Rica, though she didn’t know it. Nor did she understand the brain urgency to lift off some time after this photo was taken, and follow her fellow hummers. But she did.

So from 7 pounds per bird to a mere 1/6 ounce each, birds have habituated over millennia to patterns of migration.

These flights enable them to increase their breeding seasons, food resources, and socialization opportunities during their sojourn on our planet. This is an amazing example of how nature has evolved in the direction of survival. I hope that this Spring will give you pause to appreciate these survival efforts in nature. Rabun County and neighboring areas of Northeast Georgia are ready for you to explore these wonders!

Note: For interested readers who want to learn more about birds and where to find them, look up the Franklin (NC) Bird Club, using either Google or Facebook. Or you can always reach me at joelhitt@gmail.com.

April 2019 - 35

Rabun Paws 4 Life Making the Grade

By Jennifer T. Marcellino, CEO Rabun Paws 4 Life, Inc. www.rabunpaws4life.com

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abun Paws 4 Life has been helping the animals and people of this community for over 6 years. We have been charged with the task of serving as Rabun County Animal Control and as a shelter through a contractual agreement with Rabun County. We take in abused, neglected and unwanted animals, as well as those found lost and wandering… dumped on a mountain road because they were no longer wanted. We care for animals seized from hoarding and those that have bitten someone. Sceptics said we could not do these things and remain an Open Admission, No-Kill Shelter. We have continued to maintain that status since our doors opened in 2012.

What exactly is a “No-Kill”?

There are guidelines in the United States, but since there is no license or true certification for a “No-Kill Shelter”, there is no true “law” with the definition.

The recognized definition of a No-Kill Organization is one where “all healthy and treatable animals are saved and where only unhealthy & untreatable animals are euthanized”. Rabun Paws 4 Life uses the same guidelines as the major animal organizations in the United States (Maddie’s Fund, Best Friends Animal Society), and just like those organizations we use the Asilomar Accords… guidelines established for defining data for the reporting within animal organizations. The goal for No-Kill Shelters is over 90% “live release rate”. Rabun Paws 4 Life has maintained a Live Release Rate over 97% since we opened our doors.

What exactly is a “Shelter”?

A shelter is defined as place giving temporary protection from bad weather or danger; a place providing food and accommodations for the homeless. Rabun Paws 4 Life is a “shelter”. We are not an Animal Sanctuary which is a place that an animal lives until its natural death. We are here to take in animals from our community, keep the community safe from dangerous animals and find loving homes for animals in our care. Our goal is not to keep the animals, but to find them a home… their forever home!

Now… back to the question at hand… what exactly IS an “Open Admission, No-Kill Shelter”?

Most “No-Kill Shelters” only bring in animals that they know they can adopt… those that are NOT sick, shattered, aggressive, old, scared, not attractive. They only bring in the pretty, sweet,

fluffy, friendly dogs and cats. It is easy for them to maintain their “No Kill” status. These are Limited Admission, No Kill Shelters.

Rabun Paws 4 Life is an Open Admission, No-Kill Shelter. We do not turn any animal away because of their state of health, the way they look, where they were found, or how they act.

However, we oftentimes do not have room for an animal that is not a threat (as Animal Control, we must ALWAYS have a kennel for bite cases). That is when we ask for your help… the help of the community… to care for found animals until we can bring them in. During the time you are caring for them while waiting, we will provide food and care for the animal, if needed.

When we do have a situation that involves the euthanasia of an animal, the decision is made by a veterinarian in the case of animal suffering from injury or illness (an immediate, humane need tor euthanasia), the courts (an animal that has bitten and shown severe aggression) or the Board of Directors (an animal that has been deemed a danger to other animals or to humans through behavioral observation and testing, or is suffering from terminal illness). The animals that are euthanized for behavioral reasons, as defined by the Asilomar Accords are observed to “have a behavioral or temperamental characteristic that poses a health or safety risk or otherwise makes the animal unsuitable for placement as a pet, and are not likely to become “healthy” or “treatable” even if provided the care typically provided to pets by reasonable and caring pet owners/guardians in the community.”

Proud to be “Making the Grade”… for the community Rabun Paws 4 Life is PROUD to be the organization serving this community. We are PROUD to say we are an Open Admission, No-Kill Animal Control and Shelter. We are PROUD that the taxpayers support us. We are PROUD that so many loving, giving volunteers and donors support us. We are PROUD to call ourselves Rabun Paws 4 LIFE!!!!! We are PROUD we are MAKING THE GRADE! Visit our shelter at 261 Boen Creek Road, Tiger, GA 30576.

Call us for information, or to report lost/missing/found animals in Rabun County 706.782.5422 Donations for the care of our animals are always appreciated. Mail to PAWS 4 Life – PO Box 216, Clayton, GA 30525

Sponsored by

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April 2019 - 37

Out of the Blue Ridge

“Bring your ‘Bone’ Appetite to Woof Gang Bakery”

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By Beth Fierberg

aving a multidog household for years, taking a trip to a pet “superstore” was a weekly routine in the city. Here in the mountains, it is a lot trickier to find ways to spoil your dogs other than amazing mountain hiking, which pretty much tops the world’s list of fun things to do with your dog. Nevertheless, I enjoyed having healthy treat options that pet supermarkets provide, and special birthday pupcakes that was something they, (okay I), would look forward to giving them on their adoptaversaries.

When I recently heard about a bakery in Cashiers called Woof Gang Bakery, I looked forward to seeing what they had to offer. They are located at 11 Pillar Drive, #1667, Cashiers, N.C. 28717. Woof Gang Bakery is a locally owned franchise and has been at this location for eight years.

When you walk in, the first thing you notice is a beautifully lit large display table filled with artfully designed cookies and celebratory treats, making a delightful presentation. I was greeted by Julie Roberts, the store manager for over six years, and her store mascots, rescue dogs, Earlybird and Misty.

The owner, Janet Martin, makes a cookie called Nutty Squirrels made of peanut butter, banana, and flax seeds.

All of the other hand-painted iced and non-iced cookies are provided by a wholesale company called the Preppy Puppy Bakery. Their baked goods have a list of wheat and corn free ingredients which includes fat and protein counts on the back of the name card, which is handy, especially for dogs with allergies.

Julie said, “Everybody who walks through the door says the same thing. ‘These look so good, I can eat them.’ I hear that during the summer ten to fifteen times a day, and some people buy them for their little toddlers who see them, are confused and cry. Once I explain the natural ingredients are pumpernickel flour, peanut butter and yogurt, the toddlers wind up eating them as they walk out the door.

One customer buys our gingerbread cookies because they contain less sugar then their human counterparts.

The only thing is they are handled without gloved hands.

The big dogs who come in will lick them if they get the opportunity.” Julie laughed, “Lots of thieves and the same canine repeat offenders. They go to the same spot and grab a cookie!”

Julie has heard stories where family members are often fooled by them. “If left on the kitchen counter, Uncle Ed may walk in and grab one because there is no visible difference from human cookies.”

Business is seasonal. The busiest time of year is July, but they do a pretty good business throughout the year because they also offer grooming services, toys, dog food, and accessories. They also bag and ship their treats to their loyal customers during the winter.

My favorite thing about Woof Gang Bakery is that every few months they make a delivery to the Humane Society.

They bag the treats and donate everything they possibly can. Now that says a lot about a business that is obviously in it for the love of dogs.

Because it is not always easy for me to get to Cashiers, I’ve researched and baked experimentally to see what I could make for my dogs here at home. Simple, nutritious, and irresistible treats for my dogs, who love to hang around the kitchen when they smell what’s baking. This way I know exactly what’s going into my dog’s snacks and am able to control portion size. Below are two of their favorites.

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Sweet Potato Dog Treats Online pet stores sell sweet potato chews which dogs love, but they cost around $10 a package, which is barely a potato worth of slices.

All you need are two sweet potatoes – actually, as many as you like, but one sweet potato takes up about one baking sheet, so I used two baking sheets.

Slice them up into coins, for smaller portion sizes, but for my bigger dogs, I like to slice them lengthwise for larger treats. The thinner the crispier, the thicker the chewier. Depends on what your dogs like but don’t go thinner than ¼ inch.

You can use your slicer if you have a food processor which is a lot faster, but I do them by hand.

Lay down a sheet of parchment paper, Pop them in the oven at 250° for about 2 ½ to 3 hours, depending on the consistency you are going for, flipping once half way through.

Once they have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three weeks.

Healthy and Wholesome Applesauce and Peanut Butter Cookies 3 c whole wheat flour 2 c quick cook oats 1 c smooth peanut butter (make sure it doesn’t have Xylitol in it) 1 c unsweetened applesauce 1 tsp baking powder ¼- ½ c olive oil or coconut oil, optional Preheat oven to 350° and cover baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients well.

Knead dough on a lightly floured surface.

If the dough is too loose and crumbly, you can add olive oil or coconut oil.

Either roll out the dough to about ¼ inch and shape with cookie cutters or press them into coin shapes which is easier and faster.

Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

Let cool and can be stored in airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

I also keep an ample supply of bone broth in my freezer because it is incredibly nutritious and healing for sick dogs. If you would like the recipe, please send me an email.

Whether you make your own treats or take a fun ride to Woof Gang Bakery, your best friends will surely appreciate your efforts!

Beth Fierberg enjoys the peaceful mountain life with her husband and three rescue dogs. She is an avid nature lover, photographer and writer, but her primary passion lies with saving abandoned animals and participating in many shelter and rescue projects. Beth can be contacted by email at bethegg@yahoo.com.

Franklin, North Carolina

April 2019 - 39

Bless Your Heart - Choose Well, Choose Joy

by Lisa Harris

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ndeniably handsome. Tall, slim with an ever-soslight slump in his shoulders that carries eightyeight years of work, loss, joy and sorrow. Vivid blue eyes that continuously dance with mischief as he says his one-liners with laughter or sneaks a forbidden sweet. His heart is gold--full of wisdom, Godly knowledge, and life experience. His mind, however, is being deceived by dementia--he forgets that he has eaten, or the time, or what day it is. But, God honors him with the memories of what shaped his life. As a craftsman, he took hundreds of pieces of wood and turned their raw state into works of art that make your heart beat faster. His joy is undeniable. His love for God unwavering.

I asked him once, “What made you happier in life?

Was it while you were crafting with wood by hobby, or while you were restoring paintings as a professional?”

He replied with a chuckle, “Well, I don’t remember ever being anything but happy in whatever I was doing.” He meant that and I believed him.

“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice!”

Philippians 4:4

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“For I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.

I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.”

Philippians 4:11-13

His career was in the restoration of paintings--many of great worth. I’ve had the delight of seeing some paintings restored to their original beauty. He has shared the stories that came with them. It’s interesting to discover that in the restoration process you use your spit to reveal the old that has been covered up with layers of dirt and grime. Of course, the gentler word would be saliva. The enzymes in your spit are what breaks down the dirt and grime to get to the original painting the artist painted.

This is not an unusual process in restoration. Jesus started it 2000 years ago, when He came upon a man who had been blind from birth. Jesus leaned down and spat on the dirt to make a mud-like paste. He spread it across the man’s eyes and told him to go wash it off. The man was obedient and his eyesight was restored. (John 9:6-7) Not all restoration takes spit--(insert smiley face). The process of restoring is different for everyone, but God is faithful to complete it in us--we just have to be obedient like the blind man.

------Recently, my friend shared this story with me about his beautiful fireplace mantle (made of Wormy Chestnut) that probably could tell a century of its own stories.

“In the very early 1900’s (initially 1904) the American Chestnut trees were devastated by the chestnut blight which is a fungal disease. The Chestnut tree was considered one of the finest trees in the world. Approximately 3 to 4 billion American Chestnut trees were destroyed in the first half of the 20th century. The ‘wormy’ part refers to a defective grade of wood that has insect damage, having been sawn from long-dead, blight-killed trees.”

As I looked at the wood, with all its rustic and charming ‘wormy holes,’ I couldn’t help but be amazed once again at God’s simple but profound acts as the Creator. God has instilled in man to take a destroyed piece of dead wood

that most would have thrown on the fire, and transformed into a work of complete and utter awe.

-------He and his wife have been married for 68 years. I asked him once about his ability to be so patient. His beautiful and equally talented wife is slow-moving these days and needs an occasional prod or two.

I asked if he ever got upset with waiting? He replied with a grin, “Doesn’t do any good to get upset, I just wait.”

“Love is patient & kind....” 1 Corinthians 13:4 His deep abiding love for his wife is summed up in the one sentence he said to his daughter several years ago, “She is my reason for living.”

“Love never gives up, never loses faith, it’s always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:7 ----I know that in their prayer life, they wait on God’s answer.

They do not get impatient, therefore, the regrets are fewer.

God created us to take the ashes from life and create beauty.

Choosing joy creates beauty within ourselves.

Both continue to live well and live loved.

Grateful for their friendship--and grateful they chose to livewell by choosing joy in all things.

Lisa & her husband Tony live on the outskirts of Atlanta with their graduating son, Luke. They have the beginning glimpses of being ‘empty-nesters’ and look forward to their new journey. You can reach Lisa at bless_your_heart@yahoo.com.

April 2019 - 41

A place where new life springs forth out of despair, failure and death.

A place where God brings physical, emotional and spiritual healing to you.

HEALING IN HIS NAME The body of Christ has a treasure, but many believers don’t realize it. You can ask believers, “Does the name of Jesus belong to the Church?” They answer “yes, it is to be adored and praised”. We adore and praise the Name of Jesus, but that is not its purpose. It was given to us for our benefit.

There is healing in that Name. There must be, because Jesus said, “In My Name, they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover” Mark 16:18. There must be, because Peter said to the lame man, “Such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk”. Acts 3:6. Healing belongs to every believer. It is a privilege for us to have this wonderful Name. Sickness and disease don’t belong in our bodies!

FULL SALVATION: That Name of Jesus is salvation. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” When we use the word “salvation”, because we have been trained that way, we usually think of the remission of sins, the New Birth. But that is only PART of salvation. If that is as far as we think, we are limiting God. Romans 1:16 says “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes: to the Jew first, and also the Greek”.

In the Scofield Reference Bible, Dr. Scofield points out the full meaning of the word “salvaton” in the following footnote.

“The Hebrew and Greek words for ‘salvation’ imply the ideas of Deliverance, Safety, Preservation, Healing and Soundness. Salvation is the great inclusive word of the Gospel, gathering into itself all of the redemptive acts and processes”.

When God says “salvation”, He is talking about more than most people realize. The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto deliverance.

The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto safety. The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto preservation. The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto soundness. The gospel of Christ is the power of God unto healing. When God’s word says, “There is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” Acts 4:12, it is not just talking about the New Birth. It is also talking about healing for our bodies. THERE IS HEALING IN NO OTHER NAME! We need to know that healing for our physical bodies is part and parcel of our salvation and redemption. He not only took our sins, but He also took our infirmities and bore our sicknesses.

“That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself (the Lord Jesus Christ) took our infirmities, and bare

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“Heal me, O Lord and I shall be healed, save me and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise.” Jeremiah 17:14 our sicknesses.” Matthew 8:17. The healing He has already provided becomes real to us through His Name. “In My Name they (Christians) shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover”. Why? Because healing belongs to us. Jesus provided it in our redemption.

However, we have been taught to think wrongly like this: The Lord does save nowadays. The Name will work when it comes to “what we call” salvation. But the Name doesn’t work any further. That’s the end of it! This is a lie from the pit!

NO! That Name will do all it ever did! If it doesn’t then I have no right to believe there is salvation in that Name. Thank God there is healing in that Name! If we were taught about healing in the Name of Jesus as we were taught about salvation in Jesus’ Name, there wouldn’t be any doubt about it. We would have an unconscious faith in healing in the same way we have faith for the remission of sins.

THE REMISSION OF SINS. Jesus dealt with the sin problem, He BORE our sins. When we believe that and accept Him personally, it becomes a reality to us individually. We are born again. We become a brand new creation without any past. The sins we committed before we were born again do not exist in the mind of God. He does not remember them. “I, even I, am He that blotteth out your transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.”

Isaiah 43:25. “He will turn again, He will have compassion upon us; He will subdue our iniquities; and thou will cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” Micah 7:19. If you put Isaiah 43:25 and Micah 7:19 together, you will find that God has Hidden our sins in the Sea of Forgetfulness! Take full advantage of your rights in the Name of Christ. For in Jesus, you have everything you need to live a victorious life! When we sin as Believers, when we confess our sins, He cleanses us from all of them!

This article was adapted from teachings of the late Kenneth E. Hagin, who during his lifetime gave us gospel truths we can stand upon, understand, and apply to our own lives. We thank God for him!

RIVER GARDEN P.O. Box 112 Lakemont, GA 30552 706.782.5435 706.490.3063

April 2019 - 43

Thë Gïft øf Thøüghtß åñd Pråÿërß

By Karla Jacobs

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y grandmother, Claudine Palmer Cantrell, was known to all the world as Granny Cantrell by the time I was born. She is a giant in my memory and in my life, even 20 years after her death, and she played an outsized role in making me who I am today. Granny had always dreamed of becoming a writer and kept a prayer journal to collect her thoughts in hopes that one day they would become a book.

J

uly 13, 1984

I want to not only write my thoughts but also I hope to start a manuscript for a book I feel God wants me to write. Each day is so special to me. It is such a joy to see each new day and to be able to see all the beauty of our mountains. We have a beautiful garden and right now we are getting a slow summer shower with the peaceful rumble of distant thunder. We are already having fresh vegetables out of the garden. Last night after I worked the watermelon row, I went down to the lake to wash my feet and shoes, and the water was so warm and pleasant I waded out up to my waist. It was just before dark, and the mountains were in a silhouette, and my heart became so full of joy and thanksgiving that it just overflowed. I thought ‘Lord, who am I that you are so thoughtful of me when I can do so little for you.’ I began to realize all the blessings and gifts I had, and I felt so unworthy.

I prayed…’Father please use me and help me encourage, comfort, cheer, and please give me wisdom to counsel those who come to me. Father there are so many sick who need your help. Please let me be an instrument in your kingdom to give your message of healing to those who have swollen knees, who are struggling to recover from mistakes the doctor made during surgery. Father I know you are all powerful. I know you can speak or even will and these things will come to pass.

Father we thank you for all the prayers you have answered and all the miracles you have performed in my lifetime. Thank you Father for all your blessings…Amen.’

-Claudine Cantrell My memories of Granny Cantrell are all wrapped up in a warm feeling of love, and as I think about her, I can see her taking pan after pan of hot biscuits out of the oven and hear the bacon and country ham sizzling on the stove. I remember summers helping her put up vegetables from the garden, and I was so proud of the big quart mason jars of soup we made together. She sent several home with me. In the summer, the grandchildren all sat around the big, flat rock out in front of her house to eat watermelon from the garden until we were covered from head to toe in the sticky juice and had to be dipped in the lake to wash it off.

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Old gospel songs now transport me back to the pews of Granny’s church, Bethel Baptist Church in Sautee, Georgia.

She loved to sing, and I learned the pure joy of singing in fourpart harmony there in the pews with her. Her faith defined her, and she poured out that faith and love into all of us. When I look at my family members, I see so much of her reflected back at me.

Granny Cantrell took Paul’s command to “pray without ceasing” seriously, and one of the ways she prayed was through her journal. When she died in 1998, her journals were found stacked up and ready for us. There was so much wisdom in those pages that several family members got together, typed them up, and published them in a book so we could all have a copy. They titled it Bless the Children, because most of her prayers ended that way.

I had not opened the book in many years, but I kept it in a prominent place on the bookshelf in my den and dusted it when I got around to doing some housework. After the 2016 election, which one writer described as “a national nervous breakdown,” I felt the pull to reconnect with the familiar wisdom of my grandmother and took the book down off the shelf. Things still feel out of sorts in our culture, and with the continued hyper-polarization of our nation, there is a lot of healing that needs to take place in our country, our friendships, and our families. Maybe we can all find some hope and comfort from the wisdom of a woman who loved God and loved her family so fiercely.

I want to share some of my grandmother’s writings, so I’ll be submitting an article to Georgia Mountain Laurel Magazine from time to time with snippets from her book. I hope that you get as much from her wisdom as I do.

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything, give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV) Karla Jacobs is a freelance writer, a soccer mom, and a community volunteer with deep family roots in the North Georgia Mountains. When not writing about pop culture, policy, and politics, she can often be found hiking backcountry trails with her family. She lives in Marietta, Georgia with her husband and their two teenage children.

“He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.”

Luke 24:6-7

April 2019 - 45

“gathered to their people.” In 2 Samuel, King David lost the son he had with Bathsheba and through his grief, came to the understanding that one day he would go to him in Heaven, but the boy would never return to him on earth.

Family Circle

By Michael Rogers, pastor of Wolfcreek Baptist Church

T

he old gospel hymn “Family Circle” is a wonderful song, and when listened to, brings back many memories of my childhood days. The song speaks of the days of old, being surrounded by family. It reaches into the depths of my mind, bringing back memories that I would love to live out just one more time.

Some of my best memories are of going to my mother's parents in Cornelia on Christmas Eve, and sitting on the front porch with my grandfather on tiny Lee Street on Sunday afternoons, feeling the breeze blow through the wind chimes and listening to WCON on the front porch radio.

Others that flood my mind are going to my Dad's mother on Christmas morning and watching numerous family members pack into a single-wide trailer, celebrating Christmas over a delicious breakfast my grandmother had prepared and staying overnight with my grandmother, listening to old folk tales and superstitions while learning the secret to curing the thrush.

These were some of the highlights of my childhood and the memories flood my mind as I listen to “Family Circle”.

This hymn also speaks of the circle being broken. Over the years my family’s circle has been broken many times and because of this, life here on earth will never be the same. My grandmas, grandpas and many aunts and uncles have crossed over into eternity leaving me, my family, and many others with sweet and priceless memories that will never be taken away.

This song also speaks about one day joining them again around the throne of God and having a great reunion in Heaven. How sweet that glorious day will be! While pondering this song and all the memories, I went to the scriptures to see what they say about being reunited with our loved ones again in Heaven.

It's wonderful to read the words penned in the Old Testament where it is stated many times that the dead are gathered to their people. Genesis 25:8, 35:29, 49:29, Numbers 20:24 and Judges 2:10 all refer to Old testament patriarchs being

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Jesus told his disciples that they would drink of the fruit of the vine with him again in heaven and in 1 Thessalonians 4, you have Paul’s account where he comforted them by communicating that we will one day be caught up, (Snatched away), to meet Jesus and all those who have died in Christ, in the air and forever be with them. These promises help us to cope with the loss of our loved ones and cause me to sing the song “Family Circle” with an intensified joy.

During these times of death, we often wrestle with many questions, one being, “Is my loved one in Heaven?” That is a question only God knows the answer to, however, it should provoke us to ask our loved ones of their faith while they are still here with us. I know when I have visited family on their deathbeds in the past, this is normally the first thing that comes to my mind. In some cases it is easy to know through their profession of faith, but in others, the profession of faith has never rolled off their lips and it's a very concerning time. When I think of one passing on, the word everlasting comes to mind. Crossing over into eternity is “forever” and knowing this, I truly want to have the comfort of knowing that all my loved ones will be together again one day.

Being a part of the R4G, our mission is totally immersed within the truth of the gospel. The Good News totally addresses all of the thoughts that I have mentioned.

When the gospel, (the Death, Burial and Resurrection of Jesus Christ), is realized and believed through faith in the life of the one dying, it makes these deathbed visits so much easier. It brings peace, joy, comfort, and celebration to a moment that is normally filled with grief because we know that we will meet again. The sadness, pain and discomfort experienced from the one who has not confessed salvation in Jesus can be eliminated in a moment by them trusting Christ as their Savior. The power of the gospel will change the entire situation for everyone concerned. I am thankful God sent His one and only Son into this world, to live a life that experienced everything that we go through and who was obedient by going to the cross, to die and to rise again on the third day so that even now in 2019 we can, through faith, deal with the Family Circle being broken.

We can pray for strength and for the Lord to respond with peace, joy and celebration. As a friend of mine once said, “If you love your people, don't leave them wondering.”

Michael Rogers is the pastor of Wolfcreek Baptist Church located at 652 Wolf Creek Church Rd, Tiger, GA 30576.

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Bon Appétit

Rainy Day Dinner

By Scarlett Cook

A

s I write this it is a rainy, too warm day in March. And even though my Bradford pear trees have bloomed, the weather man says that winter is not over; the predicted lows for next week are in the teens. So stay in and cook a dinner that will not only warm you but also is a feast for your eyes with its colorful dishes. Spring will arrive, but just when is up to Mother Nature.

Chicken & Onions with Mustard Sauce Serves 4

8 Medium bone-in chicken thighs 2 Cups thinly sliced sweet onions – about 2 large onions 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar 8 Ounces sour cream 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 Teaspoon yellow mustard Salt & pepper Olive oil Pat the chicken dry and sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides.

Green Beans with Walnuts Serves 6

1/2 Cup chopped walnuts 1 1/2 Pounds fresh green beans, strung and ends removed 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 Small jar diced pimientos, well drained Place walnuts in a single layer in skillet and heat over medium heat. Stir and heat for about 3 – 5 minutes. Do not brown them.

In an 11” – 12” skillet (A cast iron skillet works best.) heat about 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Place chicken in the skillet and cook for about 15 minutes.

Turn chicken over and add onions to the pan under the chicken and cook for about 15 more minutes. If chicken begins to get too dark turn heat down and continue cooking until chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Remove just the chicken to a plate.

Add the vinegar, sour cream and mustards to the onions and stir for about one minute.

Return the chicken to the skillet and serve from the skillet.

Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of water and add 1 tablespoon salt and bring to a boil.

Add beans to boiling water and cook for 5 – 7 minutes or just until tender.

Drain and pour into a large bowl of ice water.

Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat.

Add the well–drained beans to skillet and cook for 3 – 5 minutes until heated.

Salt and pepper to taste.

Add walnuts and serve hot.

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Multi-Colored Salad Serves 6

1 Cup red onion slices 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 Small red cabbage, shredded 1 Bunch ready to eat spinach, stems removed 1 Small head butter lettuce, chopped 2 Large cans Mandarin oranges, well drained 2/3 Cup sliced black olives 1/2 Cup lemon juice 1/2 Teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 Cup olive oil Salt & pepper Place the onion slices in a bowl and pour the vinegar over them and let sit for at least 10 minutes.

In a large serving bowl add the cabbage, spinach, lettuce, oranges, and olives.

Take the onions from the vinegar with a slotted spoon and sprinkle them over the salad. Toss lightly and discard vinegar.

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, mustard, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

While whisking, slowly add the oil and blend well.

When ready to serve salad, pour dressing over salad and lightly toss.

Layers of Dessert 1 Pound cake – bought or homemade Marshmallow crème Chocolate ice cream, or your favorite flavor slightly softened Chocolate syrup Whipped cream Nuts This looks really pretty layered in a clear glass. This can be made and frozen ahead of time and removed from the freezer about 20 minutes from serving.

Cut pound cake in 1/2” slices to fit serving dishes.

Place 1 cake slice in the bottom of each glass.

Top each slice with about a tablespoon of ice cream.

Place another cake slice on top of ice cream.

Put about a generous spoonful of marshmallow crème on cake slice.

Place another slice of cake on crème.

When ready to serve, top with syrup, whipped cream and nuts.

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A Taste of the Mountains

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April 2019 - 51

The Family Table

By Lorie Thompson

H

ello, April! It is so good to see you!

I like winter, but by the end of March, I am ready to see springtime! April in Rabun can be wet and cold or brilliant warm days or all of the above! I think of April as bringing color to the World. Seeing the new, green leaves on the trees brings vibrancy to the view and the fresh, green leaves of lettuce and spinach in my spring garden bring joy to my family table.

It really is great to see April!

A highlight of spring is the delivery of the big box of Vidalia Onions from the local Boy Scout Troop. Jim Antosiak, a local Scout leader, delivers a case of these divine orbs to me each spring. It gives me great pleasure to help the local Scouts in their fundraiser and to get a case of Georgia’s own Vidalia Onions. The Vidalia offers a sweetness that no other onion can match, but it is not a great “keeper.” So, when the big box arrives, it is an onion-fest at my house.

One of my favorite ways to use them is to make French Onion Soup. This hearty soup alongside a salad or sandwich makes a beautiful meal. It does take a little time to cook the onions, so it is an excellent meal for a weekend. Let me share how to make it.

This recipe is for 8 servings. You can easily cut it in half for a smaller version or make the big batch while you are doing it and freeze enough for a second meal.

Begin with 4 -5 very large onions. You will need approximately 12 cups of chopped onions. Cut the onions into very thin, wedge-shaped slices. In a large boiler, melt 1 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter and add 1/4 C of olive oil. Cook the onions over medium-low heat for approximately 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Don’t let the onions brown. You just want them to reduce.

When the onions are translucent and reduced in volume by half, add 1 T of Kosher salt, 4-5 stems of fresh Thyme (or 1 T of dried) 1 tsp of crushed red pepper and 3-4 52 - April 2019

minced garlic cloves. When you add the salt, the onions will give up the last of their liquid and really reduce.

Continue to cook and stir for approximately another 30 minutes or until the onions look gooey. Add 1 C of dry sherry to deglaze the pan. You really do need this to enhance the sweetness of the onions. Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes allowing the Sherry to reduce.

Add 2 cans of beef consommé, and 32 ounces of highquality beef stock. Add 1-2 T of beef bullion, (Better Than Bullion is terrific!) and 4 C of water. The bullion brings a little more “beefy” flavor and body to the soup. If you don’t use the bullion, you will need to add more salt to the soup. Continue to cook for another 10 -15 minutes.

Brush sliced bread with a little olive oil. Toast in a 450-degree oven until lightly browned. Place the soup into oven proof bowls. Top each dish with a toast slice and Gruyere or Swiss Cheese slices and place under the broiler until cheese is melted.

In my family, April brings the first camping trip of the year.

This trip is highly anticipated. In winter, when the weather is at its worst, planning an early spring camp-out brings joy.

We take the family, the tents, the fishing gear, and most of my kitchen and head out for a long weekend of tall-tale telling, lots of laughing, and lots of really great food. One of our camp-out supper traditions is fried potatoes and onions. Or, as we laughingly say, a little potato with our fried onions. Once again, those springtime Vidalia’s, steal the show.

The secret to really great fried potatoes is lots of fat and frying them slowly. The type of potato is a big factor, too. Use a Russet or similar. Don’t use big baking potatoes. Peel, slice and then rinse the potato slices to remove the excess starch.

Dry them on paper towels as dry as possible. Use vegetable oil, lard, bacon drippings, or a mixture of all. I use solid Crisco and a spoon of bacon drippings. Start the potatoes cooking in a medium hot pan. Add a very thin-sliced onion. Salt the top layer of potatoes. Turn heat down to medium-low. Flip the bottom layer to the top every 5 minutes or so. Flip the potatoes gently and try not to break the slices. Do not stir them, just gently turn. Salt the potatoes for the first couple of flips. When the potatoes are half-way cooked, add a thin, sliced onion (or 2). Taste for salt.

Another of our favorite camp-out specialties is grilled Vidalia’s.

To prepare, peel the onion. Slice it into wedges cutting down near the stem end but not cutting through. The onion will “open” as it cooks and shrinks. Season with garlic salt and pepper, Place 1T of butter and 1T of beer on the top of the onion and place in an aluminum foil “boat.” Leave foil open at the top. Place in a covered grill over medium charcoal for 30-40 minutes. If you don’t have a covered grill, you can seal the aluminum foil over the onion and cook in the coals of your campfire.

If you have leftover Vidalia’s make sure to try this easy Vidalia Dip. Slice a large Vidalia as thin as possible. In a bowl, stir together, 3/4 C mayo, 3/4 C sour cream, 1/2 C Parmesan, 1 1/2 C Mozzarella, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp, onion powder, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper. Add the onions and pour into a small casserole. Bake at 375 for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly. Serve with crackers or toasted bread slices.

This spring go camping with your family. Preferably, where there is no cell service. Enjoy being together. Take lots of onions to cook and serve at your outdoor, family table.

May all your onions be sweet and may you have plenty of them! Happy Spring!

To get your supply of vidalia onions and support the boys scouts call Jim Antosiak, 706.982.2767.

Lorie Thompson is a REALTOR® at Poss Realty in Clayton, Georgia. Her expertise in her industry is second only to her culinary talents. Lorie is a dynamo in the kitchen. Honestly if she prepares it, it will likely be the best you’ve ever had!

Lorie and her husband Anthony (Peanut) make their home in the Persimmon community. She is the proud mother of Joe Thompson and Kendall Thompson.

April 2019 - 53

20

th Happy Anniversary to Mama G’s Italian Restaurant

M

by Tracy McCoy

ama G’s Italian Restaurant is a favorite of Rabun Countians. We all know that love is good food, which was the message “Papa” Paul Gaglio Sr. brought to Rabun County two decades ago! Yes it is this family’s 20th year in business. It was 1999 when when Paul and Krystyna, and their children Paul Jr and Michele moved to Clayton and opened their first restaurant on Duvall Street. It was well received by locals and travelers and soon became known for the best Italian food in these parts! In just a few years they outgrew their space and bought a piece of property on Highway 441 and built their dream restaurant, bigger and better than ever!

The Gaglio family history is one that would warm your heart, as Paul and Krystyna’s love story unfolded and they added two beautiful children. Their story would make you cheer as you watched them find their way from the airline industry to becoming restauranteurs in Stone Mountain, Georgia and then here in the mountains. You would cry with them as they lost their beloved Papa G, and then years later sweet Michele who died after achieving her dream of motherhood. You would cheer again as you watch Paul Jr. and his mother pick up the pieces and forge ahead with the family dream and you would be in tears once gain when the restaurant they poured their hearts and souls into burnt to the ground in 2015. We know you would because we all did. That tragedy hit the whole community hard and like Rabun County does they rallied and helped the family regain their footing. The Gaglios are strong and dedicated to their customers and the community and just a year later opened back up in their same location.

Today, with 4 years behind them, the restaurant is thriving and Mama G has scaled back putting it all in Paul Jr and his wife Erin’s hands. Confident that this dynamic team Krystyna in Spain.

Paul & Sal will continue the legacy she and Papa G started. Paul’s son Salvatore “Sal” has grown up in the restaurant business like his father did. He is attending Culinary classes through North Georgia Tech and is already trying new recipes out on his family. He will bring what he learns back into the family business and likely carry it on in years to come. Paul’s daughter Maggie works in the restaurant as well. In all Mama G says she has 9 grandchildren and they all make her so proud. She is happy to do some traveling with her family. She took them all on a cruise and then last year she, Paul and Erin traveled to Spain, touring Spain and Italy. They had a wonderful time, enjoyed the food and made many memories.

Mama G’s future plans include continuing to serve the freshest, most delicious Italian food and provide excellent service to their customers. They pride themselves on their staff and consider them all family. They will support the community through giving at events like Rhapsody in Rabun, the Fur Ball, and helping local charities and organizations. Their fabulous reviews on Trip Advisor, their TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence 2018 and reviews on Facebook speak volumes about the quality of their food and service.

This April as Mama G’s celebrates their 20 year anniversary they will do what they do best which is to give back to their loyal customers with $20 specials throughout the month. We invite you to enjoy dining at Mama G’s and don’t forget to wish them a Happy 20th Anniversary!

Mama G’s is located at 777 Highway 441 South in Clayton, Georgia. Their menus are available on their website at www.loveisgoodfood. net. Be sure to follow them on Facebook for news and info and feel free to call 706.782.9596.

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April 2019 - 55

Notes from a Southern Kitchen Checking Off the Bucket List

By Kendall R. Rumsey NotesFromASouthernKitchen.com

W

e all have those things in our dreams that we want to accomplish someday, most of us lump those items into our Bucket List.

The Bucket Lists we keep close to our heart sometimes are never fulfilled, but they remind us to keep dreaming. I assume it is good to never fully complete one’s Bucket List.

I have been fortunate to check off several the items on my list. I wanted to visit New York City, check. I wanted to see the Pacific Ocean, check. I have checked attending an Olympic Games from my list. I wanted to run a marathon, ½ complete I did a HalfMarathon (and that’s enough!!!!) I wanted to sky-dive, yes, believe it or not, check!

Because of my former career I was able to visit and see many of the Bucket List sites around our country that I had always dreamed of.

There are still many things I want to do and see someday, I want to stand at the Finish Line of the Ironman Triathlon World Championships in Hawaii and see the faces of humanity reach their goals. I want to stand on a Broadway stage. I want to attend a Winter Olympics. I want to visit the 9-11 museum and pay my respects to the men and women who were sacrificed on that horrible day. I want to visit Australia. I want to spend New Year’s Eve in Times Square.

My Bucket List continues to evolve, new things are added and things I thought were important to me in different seasons of life pass by, I think that is only natural, but the dreams of visiting these places and attending these events do just that, they keep me dreaming.

Seeing the sunrise over the Grand Canyon has always been near the top of my list. I have flown over the canyon and admired it from the air, but never had the opportunity to stand on the rim and see the magnificence of what has taken centuries to form.

This summer, I will check the Grand Canyon off my list and in doing so, check off a second item too.

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I envy families who take awesome trips together, it looks like such an amazing experience to share a common adventure with the people you are closest to. The shared experience of a family on a shared vacation isn’t something that we have done before.

We have gone on small trips but nothing major. That’s going to change this summer when my nieces, nephews, brother, sister-inlaw, nephew’s mom and my favorite cousin and his wife all load onto a Delta jet headed for Arizona for a week.

For the most part, we all get along fine, but I admit there is some apprehension as we haven’t done anything like this before, 11 of us in one house for a week.

We are renting several cars and the house we are staying in is pretty much a resort unto itself. We will do adventures together and separately, I pray it will be fun for all as the big family vacation is the second part of my Bucket List that we will be pursuing in June.

Who knows, if we all get back in one piece and are still talking to each other, we may plan another trip someday.

For me the Grand Canyon is the ultimate. When I say Grand Canyon, it isn’t only the big hole in the ground that I mean. Our plan is to hike and explore the surrounding areas. Our house is a couple of hours from the destination, in Sedona, AZ, which in itself has amazing hiking, sight-seeing and other activities to keep us busy and I am sure at some point we will probably make a day in Vegas to try our chances at a slot-machine or two.

I am looking forward to the beauty of seeing the sunrise over the canyon. It is a dream that I have had for much of my life. I have always been told that pictures don’t do it justice, I can’t wait to find out!

As much as I am looking forward to the Grand Canyon, a family adventure holds as much promise. I look forward to being with these people I share life with. I look forward to shared experiences and laughs, I look forward to checking a few more items off my list.

It should be a fun adventure and in reality, isn’t that what a Bucket List should be?

Kendall Rumsey is a resident of Clayton, GA. He is owner of imPRESSed, a custom imprint company, and the creator of the mountain lifestyle brand Of These Mountains. He also publishes the blog, Notes from a Southern Kitchen. www.impressedstyle.come www.ofthesemountains.com www.notesfromasouthernkitchen.com

By the Way Thë årt øf møvïñg møüñtåïñß

By Emory Jones

Y

ou might want to sit down before you read this.

That’s because the news I bear is awful, but I’m pretty sure it’s true. The folks down in Atlanta have decided they want one of our mountains, and I have it on good authority they’ve set their sights on Brasstown Bald. That’s right. They plan to take the mountain apart in labeled sections and move them, under cover of darkness, to a flat spot south of Smyrna for reasemble. Then, once the mountain is settled, they’ll install a government-run zip line between there and Stone Mountain to increase revenue and cut commuter traffic.

I know what you’re thinking—how do I know this isn’t just another attempt by that group of crazies who wanted to fill in Tallulah Gorge a few years back? Well, I don’t like to brag, but my cousin, Wayne, is the official head of janitorial services at the state house, and Wayne inadvertently hears more than you’d think from the utility closet behind the governor’s office. Now, Wayne doesn’t eavesdrop. In fact, he’s tried for years to have that closet insulated better, but—and while you’d think this would be a bi-partisan issue—the legislature refuses to take it up.

I don’t know where you stand on this issue of moving Brasstown Bald to Atlanta, but I want to publicly go on record as firmly being against it. Oh, I know the pro-mountain movement crowd will point out that the left-over hole can always be filled with water and made into a nice little lake. In fact, from what Wayne overheard, they plan to call that lake either “Lake Bald Eagle” or “The Brasstown Basin” depending on focus group results.

Personally, I’d like to see it named “Lake Brass,” but that’s probably wouldn’t float.

To find out where folks stand on this issue, I conducted my own survey. Not surprisingly, I found that fewer than 1 percent of North Georgians are “strongly for” moving Brasstown Bald to Atlanta. Alarmingly though, only 3 percent were “strongly against” moving it. Roughly 97-percent claimed to be “confused by the question.” (I know that adds up to more than 100-percent, but I accidentally called my sister twice.)

Of course, I want to keep an open mind about all this. I mean, we do have lots of mountains up here, and another lake would come in handy. Plus, we’d have a better view of the mountains to the north. And, as Wayne overheard from the broom closet, there will likely be an uptick in duck hunting and the accompanying revenue that brings in. I mean, look what that’s done for Louisiana.

I guess a new lake would take some of that lake-lot pressure off Burton and Chatuge. Boat sales would increase, too along with the accompanying sales tax.

Heck, now that I’ve thought it through, maybe I’m on the wrong side of history here. Maybe I’m just being selfish. I mean, anybody can see why Atlanta would want one of our mountains—they don’t have any to speak of, and I suppose they have to replace Turner field with something.

Plus, as Wayne points out, that new zip line would be special, wouldn’t it?

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Services April 2019 - 59

Lovin’ the Journey Sometimes you run by faith

By Mark Holloway

T

he crisp one hundred dollar bill stood at attention between the blades of grass along the highway...

Before I tell you how that money, and much more, ended up in my running shorts pocket, I’ll start at the beginning.

But first, this is a story about trust. Even today I can’t see how this story ends.

I’ve surrendered it to the Lord. This account reminds me of heaven. I know some of the details but much remains a mystery.

The cool summer temperatures of the northeast Georgia mountains are a long way from steamy southwest Georgia. Carol and I ventured south to participate in one of our former youth’s wedding. Spencer and Megan’s afternoon wedding allowed me to get in a run through Thomasville. I’d not even broken a sweat before the money caught my eye. Running against traffic, I saw the unmistakable bill standing perfectly straight between the freshly cut blades of grass. I darted over and snagged my treasure. I was like a kid with my newfound loot.

I’d actually turned back towards my friends’ motorcycle shop where I’d started. I was going to buy Carol a new motorcycle helmet with my newly printed blessing.

But then came the Holy nudge.

“Turn back and continue your run” is what I heard. So off I went. Just past where the $100 had been was another bill. This time a twenty.

Then another. And another. A ten dollar bill then another twenty...

I felt like a pirate discovering some unfortunate soul’s misfortune.

Eventually the vein played out. It dawned on me to cross the two lanes and run the route back and look in the median for more money. Sure enough there was more...$20s, $10s, $1s... But then I noticed something different. This time a newly written personal check gently waffled in the breeze and snagged in the grass.

Then another check. More currency. Then another check. That trail played out, too. I thought I was done. I then realized beyond the median were the two northbound lanes of this divided U.S. highway. Not us much money and as many checks waited for me going north. But the wind had certainly scattered the bounty over a two mile stretch. My four mile run turned into an eight mile route before the odyssey was over.

I’ve not told you the most peculiar element of my morning run. Amongst the currency and checks I’d gathered along the way was a single, clearly and neatly completed deposit slip.

I finished my run at our hotel and couldn’t wait to add up the checks and dollars and see how closely that total matched the dollar amount on the bank deposit slip.

By the end of my cool down, sitting in the Hampton Inn lobby, I sat stunned.

The wad of money matched, to the dollar, the amount written on the slip which never made it to the bank.

Once I’d showered, Carol and I still had time to have lunch with our local friends who had closed the motorcycle store for the weekend. I began to share with Jerry and Martha about my morning’s adventure. All the checks were signed by different people but written to the same woman. Martha’s

60 - April 2019

jaw dropped. In this reasonably large South Georgia town, with dozens of hair salons and even a larger number of hair dressers, Martha knew the woman on the checks. It was Martha’s beautician!!

The four of us drove west to the nearby town of Cairo to the mystery woman’s home. By now we’d concluded I’d recovered every single dollar of Barbara’s week’s pay.

As we parked in the driveway and approached the home, we walked passed a pick up truck with the driver’s side windshield crushed inward. Our friend Jerry is an imposing, burly man and we decided Jerry would approach the carport door and we three would linger in the shadows out of view. A boyfriend came to the door. Jerry told him who he was and asked to see Barbara.

The boyfriend said she was busy.

Jerry boldly said he had all the time in the world and he’d wait. Eventually Barbara appeared, albeit reluctantly. She wouldn’t even step from the doorway. Jerry explained how a friend had found all his money and checks. She seemed unmoved and barely thankful. She simply gave a forced ‘thank you’ and requested the money be set down on the garage floor near the driveway.

I’m not sure if that’s what I found most incredulous, but I stepped from the shadows to reveal our presence. A boldness engulfed me and I was undeterred by the boyfriend’s looming. Succinctly I shared with the young woman the love of God. I told her of how her loving Father cared so much for her that He’d called me from the mountains to go on a run in a strange town and collect every single dollar of her money scattered along eight miles of highway.

The story pretty much ends here. I’m sure there’s a epilogue out there I’ll one day be graced to learn.

As the four of us returned to town we speculated. Jerry suspected a domestic dispute. Perhaps the crushed windshield was from an angry and scorned batwielding girlfriend. Perhaps the week’s pay was tossed from a moving truck by a fuming boyfriend.

Perhaps.

One day I hope to see Barbara again. One day I hope to remind her of God’s love...again.

See you on the trail.

Mark and his wife Carol are the owners of Fresh Start, a company dedicated to stewarding the property and homes of their clients. They aspire to be your eyes, ears, and hands while you are away, and your resource for anything you need, whether you are a full or part time resident of the area. Mark can be reached by calling 706.490.7060

The Christmas Tree that Became a Cross

by Beck Peterson Rabun County Historical Society

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he lighted cross on Black Rock Mountain weaves a story of Georgia’s tallest Christmas tree, the owner of an airplane parts company, courtroom drama, and a son fulfilling his father’s wish. Today’s cross, erected in 2009, is a testament to the passionate volunteers who worked to place a lighted cross back on Black Rock Mountain.

Before there was a cross there was a Christmas tree and H. G. (Hub) Lesley. Mr. Lesley, owner of the AID corporation, local manufacturer of airplane parts for the U.S. Airforce, always enjoyed a good “bargain”.

When he happened upon a sale of surplus runway lights with a price of $14 a case reduced from $380, he couldn’t resist. Mr. Lesley and his employees at the AID Corporation transformed steel into the likeness of a Christmas tree. The runway lights were painted a variety of colors and became the “bulbs” on the tree. Black Rock Mountain State Park permitted the Christmas tree to be placed within the park and was lighted on December, 1956. The tree would be lit every December. In 1960 the Christmas tree was featured on the December cover of Georgia Magazine; it was dubbed the tallest Christmas tree in Georgia.

The Christmas tree was transformed into a cross, when the AID corporation embedded a steel cross within the Christmas tree frame. In a special sundown service on Easter Sunday, 1957, the cross was lighted. The combined choirs of the Clayton Baptist and Methodist churches sang beneath the 60foot high cross. It was said the hundred-light cross could be seen from Toccoa and Gainesville. Each year the cross was lit at Easter and later year-round.

Over time the steel cross/Christmas tree deteriorated to the point where it could no longer be safely maintained. It was dismantled sometime between 1973 and 1975 and was

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replaced with a new lighted wooden cross in April, 1979.

It was erected on a new location, the eastern corner of the park, for better visibility. The legal drama concerning the cross began a few months later. The American Civil Liberties Union in November filed suit for the removal of the cross from state property; they claimed it was in violation of the separation of church and state. After many court battles, it was ruled that the cross be removed. There was an appeal, but the removal was sustained. The wooden cross was removed around 1980 A lighted cross had become part of the fabric of Rabun County.

It had become more than a religious symbol. To many it was a memorial to deceased loved ones. For veterans it was memorial to those who sacrificed their lives in service for their country.

To others it was a sign that one was home. To again have a lighted cross, attorney Frank Sutton built a lighted cross on top of Screamer Mountain on property that he owned. The lights were turned on for Christmas, 1988. It remained until 2007 when it was removed due to its poor condition.

Because of a father’s request to his son, a lighted cross is again on Black Rock Mountain (outside the park}. Knox Bynum asked his son, Thad, to work to return a lighted cross to Black Rock Mountain. In 1988 Knox Bynum and others incorporated the Rabun Cross Society for the purpose to erect a cross on private land atop Black Rock Mountain. The Bynum family gifted the land to the society. The Rabun Cross Society was inactive while a cross was on Screamer Mountain. When that cross was removed, the society began working to establish a new cross on Black Rock Mountain. In June, 2009 a helicopter flew the new 100- foot cross to Black Rock Mountain. A Friday night in June, 2009, 300 people gathered at a lot between WalMart and Home Depot for the dedication ceremony for the return of a lighted cross to Black Rock Mountain. A father’s request was fulfilled.

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There’s Much to Love on This Mountain

By John Shivers

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here was a song in the 1960s called “Mountain of Love.”

While composer Johnny Rivers had a slightly different idea in mind when he penned the lyrics, those home and more than 48 acres of land at 2489 Glade Road, will give you a mountain of love and then some. This wilderness retreat, located in the Chattooga River area, is anything but a cookiecutter home. If you’re looking for the ultimate in unique, comfort, privacy, beauty and inspiration, look no further.

It’s obvious from the first moment you glimpse this home, looking through the trees of the U.S. Forest Service that surround and cradle the structure and its inhabitants, curb appeal alone insists that you explore further. And if you aren’t already hooked by the time you enter the front door, you will be before you exit.

It’s only a short, convenient drive to either Clayton or Highlands, and at 2,800 feet elevation, you’re up there where the breezes regularly come to visit. And speaking of up there, to fully appreciate the rugged beauty and privacy of this property, you simply have to see an aerial photo.

Thanks to the quality post and beam construction, the floor plan is as flexible and open, as it is multi-purpose. With two bedrooms, three baths, and almost four thousand square feet, the house might sound almost predictable. Well, guess again.

It’s immediately obvious that the designer of this sprawling lodge was a cut above on the creativity scale. What’s more, the finished home is testimony to the artistic and imaginative spirits of those who have lived the good life there. There’s much to confirm this conclusion: the spacious living areas with the custom built window seating areas and niches.

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The Finnish-made TuluKivi soapstone stove. There’s even an indoor exercise pool. Just imagine taking laps through the warm waters, when the mercury is below the freezing point, and a Rabun winter snow blankets the ground outside.

The inside is finished in nature tones that blend inside and out, and echo the country/rustic lodge architecture. Hardwood floors continue the theme of the home, along with a beautiful fireplace, vaulted ceilings, built-in bookcases in interesting places, exposed beams, tile baths, and too many other smaller

attributes to list. This truly is one of those houses you have to see first-hand to believe and appreciate.

One of the things that will bowl you over are the customdesigned stair railings. Each one different, each one unique.

Each one a fertile source of conversation fodder.

In the spacious kitchen stainless appliances, a center island with gas cooktop, double ovens, dishwasher and generous work space and cabinet storage make the task of making dinner for two or a feast for many as easy and comfortable as a snap of your fingers. The dining area with built-in banquette seating is convenient both to the kitchen and the adjacent living areas. A laundry room adjacent adds to the convenience of the home.

Outside, all the utility lines are underground, the private sloping yard adds to the livability quotient, and there’s ample parking space for numerous vehicles. Host a party and worry not. This is a home designed for people who enjoy living.

From this base camp, you can bike, hike, enjoy four-wheeling, fishing, hunting, star gazing, and just getting back to nature.

The famous Chattooga River is right around the corner, along with prime trout fishing waters. More of a couch potato?

Compromise with the swing on the outdoor covered porch and enjoy the world outside your door while you hike into a good book.

Listing agent for this property now priced at $895,000.00 is Poss Realty agent Lorie Thompson, who can be reached at 706-490-1820 or 706-782-2121. Reference MLS #8519420.

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A Place to Entertain on Lake Rabun

By John Shivers

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t first glance, the home at 3914 Brandon Mill Road gives every indication of being one of the old Lake Rabun lodges from an earlier era. But it’s not. It is a modern take on a classic style.

As you sit around the fire pit overlooking Lake Rabun’s Big Basin on a chilly Rabun County evening, warm and relaxed, you might think that life couldn’t get any better. But it can.

And it does.

Life’s as good inside as it is out, at this custom-designed home, where the “E” on the end of the word home is synonymous with entertainment. If ever there was a property meant for hosting large groups of friends and family, and designed for that purpose, this is the place. With a total of five bedrooms, five and one-half baths, and a separate bunk room, the house offers plenty of room for everyone. The biggest dilemma will be deciding whether to share special moments with those near and dear indoors or out. The good news is, you don’t have to decide. Just invite folks over and they will be sure to enjoy every aspect of the good life here. The master on the main level offers a private refuge for the owners who will enjoy having quiet time even with a house full of guests.

Central to the house is the two-story great room, where floor to ceiling windows, a massive stone fireplace, pine flooring, and exposed beams, all capped by a vaulted ceiling, set the tone for the remainder of the house. Custom wood sheathes the walls and designer moldings complete the dressy rustic tapestry. Note the one-of-a-kind lighting, and the custom ceiling medallions. This home is definitely a cut above ordinary and can only be called extraordinary.

The chef’s kitchen in the center of the main floor boasts rustically-elegant furniture style cabinetry, a custom style backsplash, solid surface countertops, chef-quality stainless appliances, a large island, eat in bar and a full complement of storage and work space. The kitchen opens into the great room on one side and into the formal dining room on the other. Everything flows together to create a great entertainment traffic pattern. The abundance of glass unites the indoors with the eye-pleasing outside and guarantees that living here will be a memorable experience.

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A gracious screened porch complete with stone fireplace beckons you to get cozy with that special someone. A large covered front porch just off the kitchen adds even more ‘al fresco’ dining opportunities. On the terrace level of the home, a generously sized family room with a fireplace and wet bar anchor that floor, along with a gaming area, and a lakeside covered porch. Stone steps from the lower area lead down to the lakeside, where the two stall boathouse with lower level bar encourages sharing fishing stories over a cold brew with friends. A covered rooftop living area offers a place in the shade to relax with a good book after basking in the sun on the open sun deck. Kids and adults alike will enjoy taking a plunge into the depths of cool lake waters from the upper deck!

This home exudes the ambience of a five-star lakeside hotel and deluxe retreat. In reality, it’s your home, if you choose to call it that.

For additional information on this classic Lake Rabun property, contact Sarah Gillespie with Harry Norman, REALTORS® Luxury Lake and Mountain at 404-735-6157, email sarah.gillespie@harrynorman.com or call the office at 706-212-0228. Reference GAMLS

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Live Healthy and Be Well “Allergy season is upon us”

By Stephen Jarrard, MD, FACS

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lthough is it freezing outside as I write this, we have had a few days to “tease” us that spring is right around the corner.

With warmer weather, the sprouting of leaves, and blooming of flowers will come allergy season.

Seasonal allergies always hit us at this time of the year, some of us worse than others, as pollen fills the air and covers our cars. The medical term for this condition is Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis, which is an inflammation of the nasal passages and upper airways. This condition occurs when a sensitized individual inhales pollen, dust, or animal dander - and their immune system reacts by producing substances that result in the formation of histamine. Histamine then causes the typical reactions we see in individuals with “hay fever.” The usual symptoms are sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy cough, itchy, watery eyes, and sometimes even itching of the skin or “hives.”

Some people can have the symptoms to the point of not being able to work or go to school during the heavy pollen season.

Also, some people who are affected may also experience these symptoms (usually to a milder degree) in the fall of the year, and this is usually due to the production of mold spores as leaves fall and begin to decay.

Seasonal allergies are a very common affliction. As with many such conditions, there is a genetic component, as well as an environmental component. So, it may run in families to some degree, and also depends on where you live, as well as how much pollen is produced that year. If there is a lot of rain in the spring, to keep the air clean, it may not affect you as badly as in other years with less rain.

You may also be affected in a certain locale or place you live, and not so much or not at all if you move somewhere else. For instance, I was never bothered with this condition except for a four year period when I lived in the Hudson Valley of New York State. After moving from there to East Tennessee, and later to the great State of Georgia – I have never been bothered by it much again. There was something about that area that my

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system was sensitive, or “allergic” to, thus I had the above typical symptoms in spring, and a milder reaction in the fall of each year.

Allergic Rhinitis in and of itself is very annoying, but not especially dangerous from a health perspective. It can and does have some secondary effects, however, that we need to guard against. When you are producing extra mucus, you have a better chance of spreading germs to others. This is especially inconvenient if you are in a profession where you have to be around or in close contact with other people. The constant rubbing or blowing of your nose can leave it raw and sore, and the cough, sneezing, and postnasal drip can lead to sore throat and laryngitis.

If you are affected by seasonal allergies, you have more of a chance of getting a sinus infection if the inflammation of the upper nasal passages should enter your sinuses. Also, people with frequent allergies have more of a chance of the allergic inflammation going into the airways of their lungs – a condition known as bronchial asthma, or it may develop into bronchitis.

The best form of treatment of seasonal allergies is to avoid the offending allergens, or at least try to limit your exposure as much as possible. However, since few of us can afford to stay in the house behind air filters or wear a gas mask all day and night, more of our treatment strategies tend to involve the control of symptoms with medication until the main pollen season is over, then most people ‘s symptoms seem to resolve to a great degree. The use of inhaled nasal steroids (nasal sprays or inhalers) can help to reduce the inflammation, congestion, and slow down the mucus production if used on a regular basis during the season.

Another approach is to control symptoms by limiting or eliminating the production of histamine, the so-called “antihistamine” drugs. The original type of this medicine was Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), which works well but has to be used with caution during the day or at work as it tends to make you very sleepy. The newer “second generation” anti-histamines tend to block histamine without the sleepy side effects, and are more useful. These medicines no longer require a prescription, usually need to be taken only once a day, and can be attained over the counter at any drug store.

Some people who have more severe, chronic, or “perennial” allergies (more year round) may benefit from allergy testing.

This testing will provide information about the specific things causing allergic reactions, and then a customized serum can be formulated to provide “allergy shots” usually taken once a week. Over time, these shots can help to de-sensitize a person to the things they are severely allergic to. They are not always the answer, but sometimes can help. Please ask your provider for more information about this is you have these types of severe reactions.

We really do enjoy hearing from you with any questions, concerns, or ideas for future columns and/or health and wellness related issues for the Georgia Mountain Laurel.

Please send an email to rabundoctor@gmail.com, or call us at 706-782-3572, and we will be sure to consider your input.

This and previous articles can be found on the web at www. rabundoctor.com in an archived format. If you use Twitter, then follow us for health tips and wellness advice @rabundoctor, and on Facebook see the page rabundoctor. Until next month, live healthy and be well!

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How Your Body Can Heal Your Soul

by Kitty Flewelling

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hen I would pray as a child, I would ask for blessings for everyone I knew. Listing off my five siblings, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles’ cousins, family friends and then at the end, add in Grandpa from the Walton’s and Granny from The Hillbillies! They seemed so old to me at the time so I must have been worried about their health!

Consider this. Your body is a highly intelligent part of who you are. It is a brilliantly refined organism that provides you with constant feedback that, when listened to, will lead you and it toward healing. The trick is, how do we hear what it is saying amidst all of the noise of modern life, including the chronic chatter in our own heads.

This community prayer began to resemble the self-healing tools I have learned as a life coach where I teach people to begin a conversation with their body and God at the same time. Over the years I have learned prayers are experienced instead of just recited. I am in a mode of receptivity versus expectation of a quick and easy solution.

What I can say is that once I began to treat my body with the same reverence I have in prayer, paying attention to its messages and responding with love, and inviting divine intervention, everything from chronic bronchitis to depression began to heal, and in turn, as my body heals, my soul is renewed in the power and presence of God. If this speaks to you, you can begin by trying this simple tool. This and any natural healing practice is never a substitute for medical treatment for serious illness, but rather can be applied in conjunction with your medical care no matter how much health or ill-health you are experiencing.

I had a coaching client challenge me on this statement when he said, “Healing comes from the grace of God.” Much to his surprise, I did not disagree with him. All things come from the eternal and return there and God is not separate from us or our bodies, but rather At our church, Timpson within every single cell.

“Your body is a highly intelligent part of who Presbyterian, we take our So instead of either/or, time asking God for healing you are. It is a brilliantly refined organism that healing can be a cofor people on our prayer list. creative experience with We take several minutes to provides you with constant feedback that, when God. Can we go so far volunteer names of people to say that when your listened to, will lead you and it toward healing.” as far and near that are suffering body is speaking to you and in need of healing. As through muscle or joint Jeff leads us in prayer asking God to shine healing upon them, pain, stomach or head aches or any other signal that it is I notice how focused I become, how much I feel the presence God speaking as well? Possibly alerting us to do something of love and light permeating the room and spreading out to different for the sake of our health? Each one of us has to the names mentioned. answer that question for ourselves.

It seems that we (human beings), have come through a long world history where our bodies have, at worst, been considered bad and dirty, and at best considered mechanical and untrustworthy. As a culture, we treat them like nothing more than a vehicle made up of reparable or replaceable parts that carries us through the world. When our bodies feel bad, we medicate them with prescription or illegal drugs, food, alcohol, and my favorite, falling into a show hole on Netflix. If we ignore the subtle signals of imbalance long enough, often, we end up with more symptoms and sometimes dis-ease.

Kitty Flewelling is a Master Life Coach, Yoga & Pilates Therapist, Master Massage Therapist and Wellness Educator. www.KittyFLewelling.com 828-200-0747 Kitty@KittyFlewelling.com

Step One - Climb Into Your Body: Sit comfortably with your feet contacting the floor.

Close your eyes Let your attention go to your feet. Just notice what they are feeling. Are they cold/warm, comfortable/ uncomfortable or numb? It doesn’t matter what you feel, just notice and breath slowly and a little deeper. See if you can do this for 3 minutes, set a timer and then pray or meditate.

Next Months Article Deciphering The Messages Our Bodies Are Sending & Step 2

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