December 2025 Issue

December 2025

Connecting Business...

Uplifting Community FEATURING

A Surry County Christmas

Where holiday magic lives in every small town moment

Holiday Traditions A Taste of the Past, Served with Love

Planting Hope Growing Community One Seed at a Time

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DECEMBER 2025

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Surry Living Magazine

December 2025 Surry Living celebrates Surry County, its people, businesses, and attractions. Surry Living is a complimentary magazine published monthly and is available at many prime locations in Mount Airy, Elkin, Dobson, King, Pilot Mountain, Jonesville, Yadkinville and throughout the County.

Publisher: Kevin Pyles Executive Editor: Derina Pyles Director: Sabrina Lee Baker Associate Editor: Veronica Green-Gott Creative Director: Josh Snow Graphic Designer: Sabrina Lee Baker Contributors: Listed on Pages 4-5 Photographers: Sabrina Lee Baker, Natalie Snow & Sybil Slate Sales: ads@surryliving.com

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A Surry County Christmas

For advertising information and rates, contact us today at (336) 416-0938 or by email at weaddvalue@surryliving.com Stay Connected

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Holiday Traditions

Contents

10 Between Rounds

SOUTHERN TASTE

6 A Surry County Christmas

30 Holiday Traditions: Family, Food & Fun 32 Surry Eats

LIFESTYLE

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN

10 Between Rounds with Kevin Pyles

34 Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense

28 And They Left Another Way

Planting Hope

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURE

14 Fitness Rage with Kage

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36 Planting Hope 38 Hope Runs Deep

Correction The article “Heartfelt Harvest” in the November 2025 issue was written by JoAnna Radford.

Surry Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Surry Living assumes no responsibility or liability for the information, services, products, claims, statements, accuracy, or intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

15 Love is in the Air 18 Blake’s Take 22 By Gosh! By Josh 23 Quote of the Month 24 Hometown Heroes 27 Surry Seen 35 “Fur”ever Friends 40 Events

on the coveR A Surry County Christmas: Celebrating the season where tradition, community, and the spirit of home shine brightest.

Cover photo & Feature photos provided by Welcome Home Decor and Gifts.

Would you like your business on the front or back cover of Surry Living Magazine? It’s available!

Contact us at: WeAddValue@SurryLiving.com DECEMBER 2025

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Contributors

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Sabrina L. Baker

Madalyn Edwards

Sheri Wren Haymore

Sabrina hails from Tobaccoville, NC. The passion for arts led her to photography, where she carved her niche. She balances motherhood and her professional pursuits.

At 30 years of age, she embraced Jiu-Jitsu, proving there is no age barrier to personal growth. Sabrina is known for her creativity and commitment, her ability to embrace change, and her perseverance. She writes to inspire others to face challenges head-on and to craft their own paths to success.

Madalyn is from Mount Airy, NC, and is currently a junior at Appalachian State University. She is studying English with a concentration in professional writing and minoring in communication with a concentration in journalism. She writes for Surry Living and also works on the news desk for her university’s student news organization. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her two dogs.

Sheri, now happily retired, finds nothing more enjoyable than time spent with her husband of fifty years, her amazing daughter, and sweet elderly pup.

She authored two novels, A Higher Voice and A Deeper Cut (which also ran as a serial feature in Surry Living Magazine). Her play, No Ordinary Wine, written in collaboration with a fine producer/director, was well received, and a second play, Improbable Grace, awaits discovery.

Kage Pyles

Blake Johnson

Carmen Long

Kage Pyles, a professional Jiu Jitsu athlete from Westfield, NC, is known for his powerful presence on the mats and his dedication to strength training. With a relentless work ethic and disciplined mindset, Kage brings intensity and precision to every match. Off the mats, he’s passionate about sharing his knowledge to help others grow stronger, both physically and mentally.

Starting in May 2025, readers can catch his insights in each issue of Surry Living magazine.

Blake grew up in and around the outskirts of Winston-Salem. He and his wife, Angie, currently live in the small town of East Bend. Blake graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree in psychology and loves finding ways to help others. He also enjoys reading the Bible, painting, and spending time outdoors.

Carmen is a NC Cooperative Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences.

Making quick, easy, healthy food that tastes great on a budget is a challenge.

Carmen and her husband have two grown children, both of whom were involved in sports from grade school through college. With busy careers and lots of time at sporting events, coming up with quick, healthy meals was a necessity. Carmen shares ideas and recipes to make this tough job easier.

Eddie Lowe

Derina Pyles

Kevin Pyles

Eddie lives in Copeland, NC. His column reflects his life experiences and stories that have been passed down to him.

He is an encourager and considers himself a cheerleader for daily life. Eddie builds custom-crafted furniture in his small business, New Venture Woodworx. He also turns wooden bowls on a lathe and sells those at art and craft shows.

Derina is the executive editor and owner of Surry Living Magazine.

She is also a professional horsewoman with a passion for connecting horses, nature, and people. Derina lives on her ranch in Westfield, NC, with her husband, Kevin, son, Kage, and daughter, Kaleah. She enjoys horse riding, traveling, and attending church at Asbury Evangelical Presbyterian.

Kevin is a Christian business owner who loves serving Mount Airy and its citizens.

In addition to being the publisher and owner of Surry Living Magazine, he is also a physical therapist, Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, and published author.

His passion is to help others find their way to health, success, and happiness through his areas of expertise.

Kevin has assembled a first-rate team of therapists dedicated to keeping Surry County residents out of pain and in motion. He has an unstoppable, positive attitude that is contagious, and we hope you catch it through his column.

Surry Living Magazine

Contributors

Joanna Radford

Veronica Green-Got

Dr. Sarah Southard, DVM

Joanna is the County Extension Director for NC Cooperative Extension in Surry County as well as the Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent with expertise in entomology, gardening, and pesticide education. Joanna began her career with NC Cooperative Extension in Stokes County in 1995 as a 4-H Agent, later switching to Field Crops and Pesticide Education in Surry County. She lives on a farm with her husband and two teenage daughters.

As a roving reporter, writer, and marketer, Veronica is a passionate storyteller. After starting her career in corporate marketing, she founded her own business, Golden Fleece Marketing, in 2019. Now she puts her skills to work as a reporter covering equestrian sports, offering marketing strategy for clients in a wide variety of industries, and providing writing and editing services for small businesses nationwide. She believes that everyone has a story to tell and that they’re all worthy of being told. In her free time, she events her ex-racehorse, LB.

Sarah grew up at Crooked Oak in the Pine Ridge community of Surry County.

Raised in the agriculture world, she went on to earn degrees in animal science and veterinary medicine from North Carolina State University. She and her husband, Adam, and son, Malachi, currently live in Statesville with Oliver the house rabbit, a few cats, Blossom the donkey, and a flock of Katahdin hair sheep.

Josh Snow

Larry VanHoose

J​ osh Snow, from King, NC, is known for his big personality and love for adventure.

An avid fisherman, he finds peace on the water. At 41, Josh took on the challenge of jiu-jitsu, proving it’s never too late for new beginnings. He cherishes spending time with family and friends, bringing energy and enthusiasm to every gathering.

Larry is the Executive Director for the Alleghany Chamber of Commerce in the Blue Ridge Mountains of central North Carolina. Some of you may know him as the former co-owner of SLM. He has more than 30 years of experience as a writer, graphic designer, photographer, and book and magazine publisher. Larry and his wife, Trina, have four wonderful, grown children and live on a small farm just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Grayson County, VA.

DECEMBER 2025

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FEATURE

by Sabrina Lee Baker

A Surry County Christmas The crisp winter air drifting through Surry County carries familiar scents that feel like memory itself. There is woodsmoke rising from chimneys, the sweetness of holiday baking, and the quiet hum of families preparing for a season filled with gratitude and gathering. From the glowing windows along Main Street in Mount Airy to the peaceful hillsides outside Elkin and Dobson, December brings a gentle joy that cannot be bought or manufactured. It is the joy of belonging. The joy of being home.

For many families across the foothills, Christmas is not marked by extravagance but by moments. There is beauty in the small things. The sound of boots landing on creaking porch steps as relatives arrive. The sight of little ones pressing their noses to cold windowpanes to see the first flakes of winter. The warmth of a crowded kitchen filled with chatter as cousins and grandparents lean around each other to reach a hot dish or sneak a taste before the meal. These moments string together like lights on a tree, creating a season that glows long after the year has turned.

There are pumpkin pies baked in well seasoned dishes that have survived decades of holidays. There are angel biscuits placed near the warmth of the stove until they rise soft and perfect. There are mashed potatoes made by hand, green beans snapped on the porch earlier in the year, and sweet treats prepared days in advance to make room for everything else in the oven.

Even the preparation holds its own charm. Children help mix cookie dough, teenagers peel mountains of apples, and grown siblings trade playful accusations about who uses too much salt or who sneaks the most bites.

Every pot stirred and every plate passed carries a little more meaning when shared with the people who shaped us.

In Surry County, the holiday table is more than a meal. It is a place to pause, give thanks, and remember how blessed we are to gather.

The Heart of the Table

Outside the home, the towns and communities of Surry County add their own sparkle to the season. Downtown Mount Airy becomes a picture-postcard scene. Garlands drape across storefronts, evergreen wreaths hang proudly from lampposts, and the lights twinkle against the soft winter sky.

Families stroll together with warm drinks in hand, stopping to admire holiday displays or listen to a choir performing along the sidewalk.

Food has always held a special place at the center of Surry County traditions. With every December, kitchens come alive in the same rhythm.

It begins with familiar recipes and ends with stories passed down for generations. The dishes laid out on the holiday table are not simply food. They are heritage. They are love made visible.

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Surry Living Magazine

Sounds and Smiles of the Season

FEATURE

Local events bring people together in ways that feel timeless. The town parades create excited whispers among children long before the floats arrive. Holiday concerts echo inside churches and auditoriums throughout the county, filling them with familiar harmonies that warm the heart.

Handcrafted markets and small business events bring neighbors face to face, reminding us how important community truly is.

Even the simplest interactions feel different this time of year. A friendly wave from someone you recognize. A quick chat about holiday plans. A shared laugh about the unpredictable winter weather. There is a softness to December, a gentleness in the way people greet one another, as if we collectively remember that kindness is a gift we all have the power to give.

Surry County After the Lights Fade Once the final gift is opened and the last guest has gone home, something peaceful remains. The house is quieter, the world seems softer, and the memories of the season linger like embers glowing in a fireplace.

In Surry County, Christmas does not end when the decorations come down. The spirit of the season stays with us. It shows up in the way we greet friends at the grocery store, the way we check on neighbors, and the way we support one another when life gets difficult.

The foothills carry a comforting kind of stillness in winter, a reminder that the best parts of life are not measured by possessions or grand gestures but by the people who walk through the seasons with us.

Faith, Family, and Fellowship The Light That Never Fades Faith holds a special place in many Surry County Christmas traditions.

As December unfolds, churches across the county prepare for candlelight services, nativity reenactments, and caroling nights that bring warmth to even the coldest evenings.

Families gather together to reflect, pray, and give thanks for the blessings in their lives. For many, these quiet moments of reverence are the very heart of the season. They remind us that Christmas is not just a celebration of gifts or gatherings but a celebration of hope.

This time of year also inspires acts of service that ripple across the community. Neighbors deliver meals to families in need. Volunteers collect warm clothing for children. Churches and civic groups organize toy drives to make sure every little one experiences the joy of Christmas morning. In a world that often moves too quickly, these gestures ground us. They remind us that we are all connected.

A Surry County Christmas is a celebration of family, faith, and the familiar beauty of home. It is the glow of porch lights welcoming visitors, the quiet of snow resting on open fields, and the warmth of a community that cares deeply for one another.

The greatest gifts of the season are found in the togetherness we share.

They are found in the laughter around a crowded table, the songs that lift our spirits, and the hope that carries us into a brand new year.

From Mount Airy’s festive storefronts to the rolling hills of Dobson and Elkin, the magic of Christmas is woven into the very heart of our community. It is a reminder that no matter how the world changes, some things remain beautifully the same.

Here in Surry County, Christmas feels like home.

DECEMBER 2025

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with Kevin Pyles

Beat Holiday Stress: Thrive This Season

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The holidays sparkle with promise. Twinkling lights, family gatherings, and festive cheer fill the calendar.

Yet for many people they also bring an unexpected wave of stress. A recent American Psychological Association survey found that more than forty percent of adults feel heightened stress during the holiday season. Financial pressures, limited time, and social expectations tend to top the list. The good news is that research backed strategies can help turn that stress into joy so you can savor the magic instead of surviving the mayhem.

Much of holiday stress comes from trying to do everything perfectly. Studies show that unrealistic expectations intensify anxiety. The pressure to have flawless decorations, ideal meals, or picture perfect gifts leaves many feeling overwhelmed. Social media adds to the comparison trap. Neuroscientist Lisa Feldman Barrett explains that stress often rises when the demands placed on us feel heavier than the resources we believe we have to meet them. During the holidays, those demands tend to multiply.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy offers helpful tools for managing those feelings. Research from the University of Pennsylvania demonstrates that reframing thoughts, such as shifting from “I must host the perfect dinner” to “I want to create meaningful moments,” can reduce stress hormones significantly. Mindfulness practices, supported by findings published in JAMA Internal Medicine, also help quiet the mental clutter that comes with long to do lists by encouraging a focus on the present.

Surry Living Magazine

Physical well-being plays a major role. The Harvard Grant Study, one of the longest running studies on happiness, found that relationships and self-care are essential to emotional health.

Skipping rest or movement for holiday preparation can upset that balance. Even brief walks release endorphins and support a more positive mood.

If you want to enjoy the season more fully, aim for progress rather than perfection and center your time around joy. Here is a simple action plan to help you thrive.

Set boundaries early. Decide your non negotiables such as rest, budget, and family time. Politely decline extra commitments. Research shows that boundary setting increases life satisfaction.

Reframe expectations. Practice gratitude each morning.

Naming three things you appreciate can shift your mindset and reduce stress.

Schedule joy. Block time for the traditions you love whether that is baking, caroling, crafting, or visiting friends. Structured downtime is linked to lower burnout.

Prioritize self-care. Aim for consistent sleep, movement, and nutrient rich meals. Rest strengthens emotional resilience and helps you stay grounded.

Focus on connection. During gatherings, tune in to the people around you more than the pressure of logistics. Strong relationships are one of the biggest predictors of happiness.

Reflect after the holidays. Make note of what brought joy and what added stress. Adjust next year’s expectations accordingly.

This season, give yourself permission to let go of the pressure. By using these simple tools, you can move through the holidays with peace, presence, and joy. May your celebrations be full of warmth, gratitude, and meaningful moments.

Above all, give thanks to God, lay your burdens at His feet, and cherish time with your loved ones.

Kevin Pyles

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DECEMBER 2025

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The Holistic Path to Fitness: Body, Mind, and Spirit Holiday tables overflow with casseroles, cookies, and special once a year treats. It is a joyful time, but it can also make it easy to overindulge. Studies show that many adults gain one or two pounds between Thanksgiving and the New Year and most never lose it. It is rarely one big meal that causes the issue. Instead, it is the steady creep of small daily indulgences that add up over several weeks. Fortunately, simple evidence based strategies can help you enjoy every celebration without feeling like you are starting over in January.

Portion awareness goes a long way. Research suggests that using smaller plates helps people feel satisfied with less food because it naturally trims serving sizes. Plating your food in the kitchen, instead of circling a buffet, reduces the temptation to pile on extras. Eating slowly also helps. Taking time to chew and savor each bite gives your body time to register fullness, which makes it easier to pause before reaching for seconds.

Balancing your plate keeps energy levels steady throughout the day. Nutrition experts recommend filling half your plate with vegetables, adding lean protein such as turkey, fish, or lentils, and using the remaining space for holiday favorites.

This approach helps stabilize blood sugar and reduces the mid afternoon crash that often leads to extra snacking.

Movement is another helpful tool. You do not need long workouts to make a difference. Short walks spread throughout the day offer the same benefits as a single longer session.

Strolling with family after meals supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar. Even simple choices such as taking the stairs, parking farther away, or turning on music while cleaning can boost your mood and increase calorie burn.

Holiday beverages can add more than expected. Alcohol contains almost twice the calories of protein or carbohydrates.

A small glass of wine or a light beer fits well into most plans when balanced with water in between. Staying hydrated can also help curb unnecessary snacking since thirst is often mistaken for hunger.

Sleep is perhaps one of the most overlooked tools for maintaining balance. Less than seven hours of rest can disrupt the hormones that regulate hunger and fullness. Protecting your bedtime routine during the busy season helps improve mood, appetite control, and overall well-being.

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Surry Living Magazine

Here is a simple six week plan to help you stay on track while still enjoying the season.

1.

Prep Week Stock smaller plates, clear counters of tempting snacks, and plan two short daily walks.

2.

Feast Days Start with protein and vegetables, then enjoy your favorite treats. Use one plate and pause for fifteen minutes before considering more. Take a short walk after the meal.

3.

Party Nights Eat a small protein rich snack before attending events.

It helps prevent overeating once you arrive.

4.

Buffer Days Return to normal portions and keep quick, healthy options like soups or salads on hand.

5.

Weekly Check-In Weigh yourself on Monday mornings. Simple tracking helps prevent larger weight fluctuations.

6.

New Year Reset Reflect on your favorite holiday moments instead of focusing on regrets. Positive reflection supports long term healthy habits.

Enjoy every bite, every laugh, and every warm moment this season brings. With mindful choices and gentle movement, you can welcome the new year feeling energized and confident.

by Kage Pyles

Is in the Air <3

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Blake’s Take BLAKE JOHNSON

Dear Blake, I am an eighty two year old woman with a husband of nearly sixty years. My husband has always been strong and independent, but lately even walking across the room leaves him exhausted. It breaks my heart to watch him become weaker by the day. I try to stay cheerful for his sake, but inside I feel scared, sad, and helpless. How do I stay K E him V I N Pwithout Y L E S , P Tfalling apart myself. strong for Thanks, Lost Without Him Dear Lost Without Him, Thank you for writing and for sharing something so personal and heartfelt. It is incredibly inspiring to hear of a marriage that has stood firm for nearly sixty years. In a world where difficulties often overshadow moments of peace, your loyalty and commitment shine. Society has grown quick to abandon things when they become difficult, and sadly marriage is no exception. Yet you have stayed the course for decades, and that alone is a profound testimony of love and devotion.

Your letter brought to mind my own grandparents. Years ago, they faced something similar when my grandfather began showing signs of dementia. Over time his health declined in both body and mind. Through every stage of that journey my grandmother displayed unwavering strength, patience, and love. Others helped of course, but she insisted on being physically present in every step of his care. Even while battling her own health 18

Surry Living Magazine

issues she tended to him, kept up their home, and carried burdens far heavier than she ever let on. Her faithfulness remains one of the greatest acts of love I have ever witnessed.

And even in their hardest moments there were still glimpses of joy, laughter, and connection.

I can also relate from a husband’s perspective. Before an accident left me paralyzed from the chest down, I was strong, active, and fiercely independent. I took pride in contributing and in being the protector of my family. For men like your husband and like I once was, independence becomes part of our identity. Losing it feels impossible to accept.

We fight it, deny it, grieve it, and yes even fear it. If I could speak on your husband’s behalf, I would ask you to offer patience and grace during the times when he seems frustrated or distant. When a man loses the ability to do the things he once did with ease, the battle inside can spill out in ways we do not intend. It is not personal. It is not a lack of love. It is simply the weight of change.

My wife and I have been dealt a difficult hand, yet we still find ways to laugh and enjoy life. Sometimes joy comes from the smallest moments, but those little moments are often the ones that keep you going.

As for how you stay strong, I believe there is something deeply placed within the heart of a woman that rises when someone she loves is hurting. It is a strength that comes from devotion, compassion, and a desire to protect those closest to her. Your words reminded me of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs chapter thirty one. Scripture says that such a woman is far more valuable than worldly riches.

She provides for her husband, her children, her household, and even those in need. Her work is honored by God Himself. Verse twenty five says, “Strength and honour are her clothing and

she shall rejoice in time to come.” Those who faithfully care for others will be strengthened in return, and I see this in my own wife every single day. Her strength fuels mine. On his difficult days your husband will lean on you. On his better days you must allow yourself to lean on him.

When fear or sadness begin to overwhelm you, remind yourself of the life you two have built. You have weathered sixty years of life’s storms side by side. I have no doubt that you will continue to persevere. Hold fast to the good moments and remember that you will rejoice in time to come.

May God bless you and your husband with peace, comfort, and strength in the days ahead.

Sincerely,

Blake

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By Gosh!

BY JOSH Early Surry County

By gosh did you know that the earliest settlers of Surry County, North Carolina laid foundations that would shape the region’s culture, economy, and identity for generations to come?

Though often overlooked in early American history, the story of Surry County’s beginnings is one of frontier resilience, migration, and community building in the Carolina backcountry.

Located along the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Surry County was officially formed in 1771 from Rowan County. However, settlement here began decades earlier as families of Scotch Irish, English, and German descent migrated westward from coastal and Piedmont regions in search of fertile land, religious freedom, and a fresh start. Long before European settlers arrived though, Native American tribes including the Saura inhabited the area. Some historians believe the county’s name, spelled Surry, is derived from that tribe. Archeological finds across the county reveal evidence of trade, encampments, and agricultural practices by indigenous peoples that predate European arrival by centuries.

By the 1740s and 1750s, European settlers arrived in earnest, armed with cultural traditions and practical skills well suited to survival on the frontier. Surry County was not built by plantation owners, but by small farmers, tradesmen, and families who cleared dense forests, built log homes, and cultivated crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco. The Yadkin River, which still serves as one of the most important natural landmarks in the region, played a central role in early life, providing water, fertile soil, and power for mills and trade.

Many of Surry’s early families were Scotch Irish, marked by their Presbyterian faith, devotion to community, and fierce frontier resiliency. German settlers, known for their highly skilled craftsmanship and farming methods, also influenced the region’s growth. English families, some tied to colonial land grants, added to the diversity of early settlers. The blending of these cultures gave rise to distinct traditions, tightly knit communities, and a shared sense of identity that remain evident in the region today.

Trading centers emerged early on as the population expanded. Places like Rockford, which became the county seat in 1789, grew into vital hubs for commerce, government, and community life. Within modest log structures, settlers gathered for court sessions, traded goods, shared news, and upheld a frontier legal system that kept order and protected their thriving but fragile way of life.

The early economy was built on a balance of subsistence farming and local trade. Blacksmiths, millers, coopers, and weavers provided essential services, while mills along the Yadkin and Ararat Rivers became cornerstones of community life.

Though manual labor defined much of daily existence, settlers also enjoyed fellowship through church gatherings, barn raisings, harvest celebrations, and shared decision making that reflected their mutual dependence.

It is important to acknowledge that the story of early Surry County contains complexity. Relationships with Native American tribes often shifted between cooperation and conflict.

Enslaved people were present in the county from its earliest days, even if on a smaller scale than plantation regions farther east. These realities form part of the fuller picture of the county’s shared past.

By the eve of the American Revolution, Surry County had transformed from remote frontier land into a thriving community with established leadership and growing economic stability.

Tens of thousands of residents have followed in the footsteps of those first settlers, building industries, neighborhoods, and institutions on that same foundation of perseverance.

Today, pieces of that heritage remain all around us. Historic buildings, churchyards, preserved mills, and even road names serve as quiet reminders of the families who pushed into the wilderness and built lives out of determination and hope. Their legacy continues to shape the fabric of Surry County, where old meets new and history lives on in every hill, holler, and homestead.

by Josh Snow

Quote of the Month:

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— Unknown

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LIFESTYLE

And They Left Another Way As the longest nights of the year settle over us, many people quietly begin wrestling with seasonal depression despite the message of glad tidings the holidays bring. December can be a difficult month. Some struggle to afford Christmas gifts while others brace for the cold that January will soon deliver. For this issue, we turn our attention toward a bright spot of hope found in the scriptural account of our Lord’s humble birth. Our inspiration comes from the Gospel of Matthew, told through the viewpoint of the wise men who traveled from the east, historically understood to be Persia.

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As with many familiar Bible stories, assumptions have been passed down through tradition. One example is the idea that there were only three wise men. This likely comes from the three gifts presented: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Another assumption is that the wise men arrived at the manger. Yet Matthew’s Gospel clearly states that when they arrived, Jesus was found in a house. These clarifications are not meant to alter our cherished Christmas plays but rather to magnify the depth of hope and the dedication these wise men displayed in their long journey to see Jesus.

Secular studies suggest that the wise men were likely astrologers who understood both the stars and the scriptural prophecy concerning the Messiah’s birthplace. This leads us to the heart of our reflection titled “They Left Another Way.” After the wise men worshiped the Christ child and presented their gifts, scripture tells us that “they left another way.” They sensed the evil intent of King Herod and, rather than expose Jesus’ location, chose a different route home.

There is a beautiful message in that simple phrase. Any true encounter with Jesus changes the heart, the direction, and the outlook of a person. You leave differently than you arrived. This is where hope speaks to us today.

None of us are promised an easy road. Some reading this are waiting for medical results, hoping for the best while fearing the worst. Others are weighed down by financial strain, with overdue bills and mounting pressure. Some are walking through a troubled marriage. Life can feel uneven, with some prospering while others fall behind. Even with our best efforts, we sometimes slip into discouragement. At night, when our heads rest on the pillow, our minds still race, searching for hope.

Imagine the fear Mary must have felt with every small sound her newborn made. The birthplace of Jesus reveals the poverty Joseph and Mary endured, with only a feed trough as a makeshift crib. Shortly after the departure of the wise men, Joseph and Mary were warned by God to flee into Egypt for safety. King Herod, threatened by the news of a newborn king, ordered the horrific slaughter of male children two years old and younger. It would have been easy for them to lose hope or to question God in their hardship. Yet they clung to faith, trusting that God had a plan and that they were part of it.

And so are we. Every one of us is created in the image of God, and He never sleeps nor slumbers. Even in the darkest seasons, His presence remains.

I would like to leave you with two simple thoughts that have helped me.

Number one: Ask God for direction in your life. Wise men still seek Him. Number two: Ask God for guidance in the decisions you face each day.

God bless you, friends.

by Eddie Lowe

DECEMBER 2025

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southern

taste

Holiday Traditions Family, Food and Fun

Gatherings with family and friends are some of the most special times of the holiday season. Food tends to make these celebrations even better. For many, a holiday dish brings back memories of someone dear.

For my husband Brent, his grandmother’s carrot cake is a holiday favorite. Granny Green did not go by a recipe when she cooked. She would use a handful of this and a pinch of that to create her delicious treats. My mother in law, her sister, and the rest of the family are very thankful they took the time to write down the carrot cake recipe while Granny was still alive. One day, as Granny measured out her handfuls and pinches for the cake, they had her put each ingredient into an individual bowl before mixing them together. After measuring each bowl with cups and spoons, they wrote it all down in recipe form for future generations to enjoy.

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Growing up, my family always made lots of different kinds of Christmas cookies to enjoy and share with neighbors and friends. It always felt magical to turn the knob of the cookie press and watch the shapes appear. Listening to Christmas music, decorating cookies with sprinkles and colored sugar, peeking in the oven door as they baked, smelling their warm sweetness, and finally eating one with a glass of milk created such special memories.

As parents, we have worked to create memories for our children that they may one day share with their own families.

We have carried on some holiday traditions from our youth and developed others of our own that continue to evolve. Our daughter has perfected making deviled eggs. Our son enjoys making peanut butter balls with my mom. Our daughter in law has learned to make delicious sugar cookies from her grandmother.

SOUTHERN TASTE

Homemade yeast rolls are another holiday favorite in our family, and they also make wonderful gifts. Siloam Extension and Community Association member Carole Simpson shared this recipe with me many years ago when our kids were young. Baking is a great family activity. Even small children can help with the measuring, mixing, and kneading.

And food is a gift anyone can use. There is no need to worry about where the recipient will put it or if the size or color is right. Homemade gifts from the kitchen are always appreciated.

This season, think about what makes the holidays special for you and your family, and work to preserve those memories. If a dish is part of those memories, make sure to ask for the recipe, or better yet, have the person show you how to make it. The time spent together and the memories made are better than any gift you could buy.

Easy Yeast Rolls Crescent shaped rolls are easy and fun to make. When the dough is ready to use, divide it into three equal pieces. A pizza cutter works well. Roll each piece into a circle and brush with melted margarine, butter, or oil. Then cut each circle into eight triangles like slicing a pizza. Roll each triangle beginning at the wide end and place it seam side down on a baking pan.

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • •

One quarter cup sugar Two and a half teaspoons or one packet yeast One teaspoon salt One cup plus two tablespoons warm water at 115 degrees One quarter cup softened margarine, butter, or oil One egg, well beaten Three and a half cups plain flour

DIRECTIONS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Mix sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Add warm water and stir. Let stand until foamy, about five minutes.

Add margarine, butter, or oil and the egg. Mix well.

Add flour all at once and stir until combined. Dough will be sticky and does not require kneading.

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about one to one and a half hours.

Place dough on a floured surface and knead gently two or three times until manageable.

Dough may be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days, covered tightly.

When ready to use, allow dough to rest fifteen minutes before shaping.

Place rolls on a pan and let rise two hours before baking at 375 degrees for twelve to fifteen minutes.

Makes 24 to 32 rolls.

For Cinnamon Rolls Perfect for Christmas morning • •

Increase sugar to one half cup Mix one half cup sugar with two teaspoons cinnamon After dough has doubled in size, divide into two pieces and roll each one into a rectangle. Brush with margarine or butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture. Roll tightly and cut into pieces using a serrated knife. Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for ten to twelve minutes or until lightly browned. Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze if desired.

by CARMEN LONG

DECEMBER 2025

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SOUTHERN TASTE

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Surry Living Magazine

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345 N Bridge St.

DECEMBER 2025

33

Home,

farm, Navigating Life & Garden

with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense

I was concerned. Traveler had scarcely touched his alfalfa hay and sweet grain for two days. He had also refused to go out and exercise in the pasture, one of his favorite things to do. I had a suspicion about what was bothering him.

Now it was time to have a heart-to-heart.

“Traveler, are you going to tell me what’s bothering you?

Or do I need to have the vet out to look at you?”

“The vet?!” He raised his head in a flash. Uttering that three-letter word, V-E-T, to a horse could prove they have the fastest reaction time of all domesticated animals.

“Well, if you’re going to continue to mope around this barn and not eat, I’m going to call the vet. Or you can tell me what is going on?”

I didn’t want to seem unsympathetic, but with Traveler, being direct was best. His habit of holding in his feelings could easily cause an ulcer. I didn’t want to waste any time finding the cause of the problem because ulcers can lead to a potentially life-threatening issue called colic. Colic is a word that no horse owner ever wants to hear.

Traveler hung his head and whispered, “I miss my friend.”

I walked around to his side and put my arm over his withers. This always comforts Traveler, and he calls it his “side hug.”

“Traveler, we talked about Ranger going to his new home and why that was best, remember?”

“I remember, but now that he is gone, I’m sad and lonely.

He was here in the stall next to me for a year, Hay-Woman.

We went everywhere together, talked about our goals and dreams, you know—BFFs.” Ranger had come to me for training. He had a wonderful disposition, and his training went smoothly. He was willing, sweet, and gentle. I fell in love with him too. There is a cheeky saying in the horse world that holds a lot of truth,

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“horses are like potato chips, it’s hard to have just one.” But when a father contacted me wanting a safe, reliable mount for his teenage daughter, I knew Ranger had found his new home.

Making the right decision can be difficult even if you know its best. I admit I wiped more than a few tears when he left.

Still hugging Traveler, I knew he needed comforting more than a lot of rationalizing. We stood in silence. In God’s ever-perfect timing, my phone buzzed an incoming text.

“Look Traveler, the dad just sent this picture.” The photo showed his daughter sitting bareback on Ranger. She was leaning over hugging him around the neck. Both wore smiles as big as Texas.

Traveler looked intently at the picture.

“Hay-Woman, I feel selfish and ashamed. Making this all about me and not giving a thought to that young girl or Ranger. They needed each other. Just like you and me.”

“No reason to feel bad about your feelings, Traveler. We should all keep focused on God’s love for us every day and trust his plans. Even when they aren’t always what we’d choose, his plans are best.”

“Wow, God does have perfect plans, doesn’t he?”

“That’s the truth, my friend.”

by D E R I N A P Y L E S

Send us a photo of your pet and we may use it here.

Email: info@surryliving.com Subject Line: Furever Friends

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN

Planting Hope:

by J O A N N A R A D F O R D

How Surry County’s Seed Libraries Are Growing More Than Gardens In a quiet corner of the library, tucked between bookshelves and bulletin boards, sits something remarkable: a small cart or table filled with seeds. These aren’t just seeds for vegetables or flowers — they are seeds of hope, resilience, and community.

Since 2020, Surry County has become home to a blossoming network of seed libraries — seven in total — thanks to the vision of one dedicated NC State Extension Master Gardener volunteer. What began as a single seed of an idea has grown into a thriving initiative rooted in generosity, sustainability, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to grow their own food.

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You’ll now find Sunshine Seed Libraries at: • Dobson Public Library • Charles H. Stone Memorial Library • Mount Airy Public Library • Lowgap Public Library • Elkin Public Library • Surry County Senior Center in Mount Airy • Pilot Mountain Senior Center Each location offers free access to seeds, gardening resources, and guidance — all made possible through the ongoing efforts of Surry County’s team of Master Gardener

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN

volunteers.

A seed library is a place where people can “check out” seeds to plant at home. At each location, three seed packets may be taken per visit. While some seed libraries allow harvested seeds to be returned and shared, our local seed libraries are not accepting returned seeds at this time. Still, the concept holds a powerful message: planting a seed is an investment in the future.

Whether you have a backyard plot, a few pots on the porch, or simply the curiosity to try gardening for the first time, the seed libraries are a welcoming place to begin. For many residents, especially during uncertain times, growing a garden is more than a hobby — it is a way to reconnect with nature, reduce food insecurity, and find peace.

This seed library movement began with one volunteer’s desire to help others grow. That vision took root and spread, thanks to the commitment of many Master Gardener volunteers who recognized its value. Together, they’ve built more than a network of libraries — they’ve created a community

around growing and sharing.

Workshops, informational flyers, and community events have grown alongside the seed libraries, offering guidance and inspiration for new and experienced gardeners alike. These programs encourage people to get their hands in the soil, experiment, and experience the joy of nurturing life from a seed.

In a world that often feels hurried and uncertain, gardening helps us slow down and trust the process. Each seed planted is an act of hope that it will grow, thrive, and nourish. The seed libraries of Surry County are quietly transforming communities one person and one plant at a time.

As more people discover and use the libraries, they are doing more than starting gardens — they are participating in a movement that celebrates sustainability, learning, and the simple joy of creating something new. Because in every seed lies the potential not just for a plant, but for a better, more hopeful tomorrow.

For more information on becoming a Master Gardener volunteer, contact your local NC Cooperative Extension.

DECEMBER 2025

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HOME, FARM, & GARDEN

Hope Runs Deep Hope is not loud or showy. It doesn’t arrive with fanfare or glitter. It’s quieter than that. It’s in the way the sun still rises over our ridgelines after the storm. It’s in the hum of saws and hammers as folks rebuild. It’s in the laughter drifting from a Main Street café, or the simple act of opening a shop door each morning, because that’s what small towns do. We open our doors, even after the wind has blown hard.

This Christmas season, hope is what binds our hills together again. After the heartbreak and hardship of Hurricane Helene, our communities in Alleghany and Ashe counties are still standing tall, steady as the spruce and fir that crown these Blue Ridge slopes. There may be no better time to show your love for this region than right now, as the holiday season rolls in like the promise of light after a long night.

There’s something different about Christmas in the mountains. Maybe it’s the way Main Streets glow under old-fashioned lampposts, or how the air smells of pine and woodsmoke. Maybe it’s that unspoken rhythm of people stopping to chat, to hug, to say “Merry Christmas” and really mean it. Here, the season doesn’t rush. It lingers. And I wouldn’t trade that for anything.

I’ve always said that when you shop here, whether in a little gift shop, a corner mercantile, or a tucked-away artist’s studio, you’re not just buying something – you’re meeting someone. You’re becoming part of their story, and they become part of yours. There’s something beautiful in that exchange.

Our local shops and markets brim with creativity and care: hand-carved gifts, pottery still warm from the kiln, woven scarves, and ornaments made with love and patience.

Restaurants and watering holes offer the kind of comfort you can’t package – soups that taste like Sunday, local music drifting from a back corner, and the familiar laughter that comes when neighbors gather at the end of a long day.

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Every dollar you spend here ripples through the community. It helps a craftsman replace tools lost in the storm. It keeps a young family’s lights on through winter. It’s not charity – it’s connection. And that, to me, is the heart of hope.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas in the High Country without a choose-and-cut tree trip. I’ve watched families for years, cars packed with kids and cocoa, winding their way up the mountain to find that perfect Fraser fir. There’s a joy in it you can’t fake – the crunch of frosted grass, the laughter echoing through the fields, the pride in tying that tree to the roof and heading home.

This year, that tradition carries extra meaning. Many of our tree growers were hit hard by Helene, losing soil, seedlings, and sometimes a season’s work. Yet they’re still here, smiling, greeting every visitor, handing out saws and hot chocolate. When you bring home a mountain-grown tree this year, you’re doing more than decorating your living room. You’re planting hope right back into the soil of these hills.

Hope isn’t found on a shelf or wrapped with a bow. It’s found in how we show up for each other. It’s in the way we choose to spend our time and money – with care, with purpose, and with love for this place we share. So this Christmas, let’s take the mountain roads a little slower. Let’s shop local, eat local, cut a local tree, and carry that feeling of hope home with us. The lights will shine a little brighter for it. And maybe, just maybe, these mountains will feel it too.

Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned living here, it’s that we are a people shaped by storms and strengthened by each other. And like a good Fraser fir, our roots run deep. And they are holding fast.

by Larry VanHoose

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN

DECEMBER 2025

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DECEMBER EVENTS 40

MOUNT AIRY

5 Sleigh Bells & Bids: A Not-So-Silent Night Friday, December 5, 2025 at time TBD Downtown Mount Airy (Main Street), Mount Airy, NC 27030

7 The Nutcracker, performed by New York Ballet for Young Audiences Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 3:00 pm Andy Griffith Playhouse 220 W Parsonage St, Mount Airy, NC 27030

20 Decemberfest Holiday Shopping Stroll

Saturday, December 20, 2025 at 11:00 am Germantown Avenue Corridor Downtown Mount Airy, NC 27030 ELKIN

5 Light Up Elkin

Friday, December 5, 2025 at 5:00 pm Historic Downtown Elkin 222 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621

13 Big Band Christmas Classics – The Elkin Big Band Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 7:00 pm The Reeves Theater 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC 28621 DOBSON

5 3rd Annual Ho-Ho-Glow Tournament (Disc Golf ) Friday, December 5, 2025 at 6:30 pm Fisher River Park Disc Golf Course 251 County Home Rd, Dobson, NC 27017 GALAX, VA

5 Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade

Friday, December 5, 2025 at 6:45 pm Downtown Galax 403 N Main St, Galax, VA 24333

13 Old Time Appalachian Christmas Festival

Surry Living Magazine

Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 11:00 am Downtown Galax 403 N Main St, Galax, VA 24333

Nestled in the rolling hills of Asbury in Mt. Airy is a unique country church filled with love.

Bring us your troubles and find a shoulder to lean on.

Bring us your fear and find your brave.

Bring us your anxiety and find your peace.

Asbury Evangelical Presbyterian Church 1084 Flippen Rd. • Mt. Airy, NC 27030 336-351-4040 • asburyEPC@gmail.com BestChurchInWestfield.com

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4 Surry Living Magazine WWW.RENEWWOUNDCARECENTER.COM

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