Surry Living Magazine - January 2024

Happy 100th Birthday William Wagoner turns 100 this month

Blake’s Take

Getting help on a variety of topics

Featuring

Rachael’s Fitness Journey:

A Story of Transformation

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January 2024 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, Pilot Mountain, Jonesville, Yadkinville and throughout the county.

Publisher: Kevin Pyles Executive Editor: Derina Pyles Director: Sabrina Lee Baker Associate Editor: Vie Herlocker Creative Director: David Stanley Creative /Lead Designer: Sybil Slate Graphic Designer: Ashton Young Contributors: Listed on Pages 4-5 Photographers: Sabrina Lee Baker, Natalie Snow & Sybil Slate Sales: sales@surryliving.com

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Happy 100th Birthday, Mr. Wagoner!

For advertising information and rates, contact us today at (336) 648-3555 or by email at sales@surryliving.com Stay Connected

SurryLiving.com @SurryLiving

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Make Smart Breakfast Choices

Contents

18 Quote of the Month

SOUTHERN TASTE

6

36 Simply Delicious - Make Smart Breakfast Choices

LIFESTYLE 10 Happy 100th Birthday, Mr. Wagoner!

14 Ready, Set, Move 20 Resilience 28 Personal Growth and the Woodshop

Rachael’s Fitness Journey

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURE Rachael’s Fitness Journey

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38 Roasted Broccoli with Pecans

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN

24 Blake’s Take 26 Ask the Expert 31 Love is in the Air 33 “Fur”ever friends 35 Hometown Heroes 45 Surry Seen

40 Winter Bird-Watching

48 Events

42 Wellness: Considering the Whole Animal

on the coveR

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

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.

Rachael’s dedication shines through in her personalized fitness coaching, where she guides individuals on a transformative journey towards enhanced strength, mobility, and wellbeing.

Would you like your business on the front or back cover of Surry Living Magazine? It’s available! Contact us at: WeAddValue@SurryLiving.com JANUARY 2024

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Contributors

Sabrina L. Baker

Madalyn Edwards

Sheri Wren Haymore

Sabrina hails from Tobaccoville, NC. 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.

Rynn Hennings

Vie Herlocker

Blake Johnson

Rynn is a writer and designer based in the Yadkin Valley region of North Carolina.

She loves to share her ideas for adding simple beauty into hectic lifestyles. More than mere recipes, her mission is to offer practical shortcuts for food preparation along with visual tips for presentation. Rynn began her career in Aiken, SC, as a newspaper reporter writing feature articles about food, living, and the arts. For more about Rynn, even more recipes, decorating tips, and much more, visit thehouseofelynryn.com.

Vie is a certified member of the Christian Editor Connection.

She is a member of Christian Proofreaders and Editors Network, American Christian Writers, American Christian Fiction Writers, and Word Weavers, International.

Vie has been published in Guideposts and other magazines and collections. She has also published devotionals, and has co-authored or ghosted several nonfiction books.

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 Long

Eddie Lowe

Derina Pyles

Carmen is an 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 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.

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Contributors

Kevin Pyles

Joanna Radford

Dr. Sarah Southard, DVM

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 throughout 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.

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.

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.

Larry VanHoose

Rachael Williams

Larry is the Executive Director for the Alleghany Chamber for Economic Development 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.

Rachael is a wife, mom, athlete, and movement fanatic. As a Certified Personal Trainer, she helps others move, feel, and perform better through strength and mobility coaching.

On the off chance you find her not moving in some way, she’ll likely be sitting on the back porch of her home in Cana, VA reading, writing, or staring off into the woods.

JANUARY 2024

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Rachael’s Fitness Journey:

A Story of Transformation

by S A B R I N A B A K E R

Rachael Williams, a strength and conditioning coach, began her career journey as a Radford University social science graduate with aspirations of becoming a high school history teacher. Little did she know a chance introduction to the gym would alter her course, leading her to become a dedicated fitness professional.

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Rachael’s initial career path took an unforeseen turn when she met her husband, Matt, who introduced her to the world of fitness. She vividly recalls her first encounter with the gym equipment. “You want me to do what?!” she exclaimed, skeptical and unfamiliar with the world of exercise. Despite this initial hesitation, Rachael’s curiosity grew, leading her to explore the gym further.

After consistently working out at the gym, Rachael noticed not only physical changes in her body but also improvements in movement and mood. This gradual transformation spiraled into a deep passion for fitness. Rachael found herself immersed in the world of exercise, constantly seeking to expand her knowledge. Motivated by this newfound enthusiasm, she applied for a personal trainer position at a gym in San Francisco, despite having no formal qualifications. Taking a chance on her enthusiasm, the manager gave her an opportunity, setting her on the path to obtaining certifications.

Rachael’s journey continued as she went on to establish her personal training business, providing one-on-one coaching and leading group fitness classes. Her passion for fitness extended beyond the gym, leading her to partner with a local children’s museum to provide mommy-and-me exercise classes. Currently, she leads Silver Sneakers classes and yoga classes, including beginner and flow yoga classes at Northern Wellness and Fitness Center. Rachael continues to coach clients one-on-one, focusing on improving strength and mobility.

Rachael’s impact extends beyond the gym floor, touching the lives of individuals with diverse goals and backgrounds. Each success story is a testament to her dedication to personalized coaching. Take, for instance, a young Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner facing knee issues and limited mobility. Through

Rachael’s guidance, not only did he improve his knee flexibility and squat form, but his knee pain also significantly decreased.

Another inspiring story involves a young music teacher who, under Rachael’s coaching, gained muscle and strength.

This newfound strength translated into increased confidence, empowering her to perform squats and deadlifts. Rachael’s coaching is not limited to specific age groups or fitness levels.

Another client, a mother of elementary-aged children, preparing for a large sports competition, felt more athletic than ever under Rachael’s guidance.

These examples highlight Rachael’s ability to tailor her approach to individual needs, fostering not only physical improvements but also mental resilience and confidence.

Diverging from the conventional emphasis on weight loss, Rachael prioritizes a systematic progression of weight training and mobility. Her philosophy centers on gradual, structured improvements in strength, mobility, and performance, steering away from a narrow focus on shedding pounds. Rachael believes that a holistic approach to fitness, focusing on building a foundation of strength and mobility, yields lasting results.

Recognizing that her approach may not suit everyone, Rachael encourages individuals to explore various coaching styles within the community. She emphasizes the importance of finding a coach whose philosophy aligns with individual goals and preferences. Rachael’s dedication to tailoring programs to client needs ensures that her clients experience not only physical transformations but also a positive and sustainable approach to fitness.

Understanding that fitness is a personal journey, Rachael emphasizes the inadequacy of one-size-fits-all solutions. Her approach involves personalized plans based on individual fitness

JANUARY 2024

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levels, goals, and any physical limitations. Rachael believes in the power of effective communication, beginning each coaching relationship with a detailed questionnaire that includes background, general health information, and goal setting.

For in-person clients, the first few sessions include relevant movement assessments. Rachael uses these assessments to identify specific areas of focus and tailor the training program accordingly. For online clients, Rachael utilizes video calls or voice calls with video submissions to ensure a thorough understanding of each client’s unique circumstances.

Prioritization is a key aspect of Rachael’s coaching philosophy.

Recognizing that trying to do everything at once can be overwhelming, she collaborates with her clients to prioritize and focus on one goal at a time. Whether collaborating with seasoned athletes with competition schedules or beginners focusing on developing movement patterns, Rachael’s adaptability shines through.

In the digital age, Rachael embraces technology as a tool to enhance her coaching effectiveness. She utilizes a web-based app to provide coaching to her online clients, offering a quick and straightforward way to deliver personalized plans. This app allows for real-time adjustments, ensuring that her clients can seamlessly continue their fitness journey without any delay.

The app features checkboxes to mark off completed tasks, making it easy for clients to track their progress. Video demonstrations are available for quick reminders of prescribed exercises. Rachael finds that the app’s capabilities not only streamline the coaching process but also provide valuable insights into her clients’ progress. Whether working with online or in-person clients, the app serves as a central hub for all programs and tracking, simplifying coaching and training.

Driven by a commitment to staying current, Rachael engages in continuous learning to provide the best possible coaching

8 Surry Living Magazine

experience for her clients.

Podcasts featuring qualified scientists presenting new research and analysis are a regular part of her routine.

Staying active on social media allows Rachael to follow contemporaries and stay up to date on the latest trends in strength and mobility.

Rachael holds several certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, including Certified Personal Trainer, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Senior Fitness Specialist, and Functional Yoga Specialist. Each certification represents a commitment to expanding her knowledge and refining her skills in various aspects of fitness and wellness.

This commitment to professional development ensures that Rachael is well-equipped to address the diverse needs of her clients. It also reflects her dedication to providing evidencebased and up-to-date guidance, incorporating the latest research and trends into her coaching methodology.

Rachael’s journey from a history enthusiast to a sought-after strength and conditioning coach exemplifies the transformative power of passion and dedication. Through personalized coaching, a unique training philosophy, and a commitment to ongoing learning, she continues to empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

As Rachael’s story unfolds, so does the potential for countless others to embark on their own transformative fitness journeys, guided by a coach whose mission extends beyond physical transformation to the enrichment of lives. Whether it is a young athlete overcoming physical limitations or a professional finding strength and confidence, Rachael’s impact transcends the gym, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives she touches.

Connect with Rachael for personalized fitness support at rachaelwilliams.fit. Start your journey to improved strength and mobility today.

JANUARY 2024

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LIFESTYLE

Happy 100th Birthday, Mr. Wagoner!

by M A D A LY N E D W A R D S

William Wagoner, a Mount Airy local, will be 100 years old on January 16. The centenarian was born and raised in Surry County and grew up on Durham Street.

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LIFESTYLE

When he was a child, Wagoner played with homemade toys such as tom-walkers (stilts) or sacks filled with pinto beans. Money was tight during his growing up years. His father couldn’t afford to purchase him a bike, so he traveled via roller skates.

One memory from his childhood, which still makes him laugh, took place at his grandfather’s funeral. As he and his father were leaving, six-year-old Wagoner asked his father why quarters were resting over his grandfather’s eyes. His father told him that “one was to get him [his grandfather] over the River Jordan and one was to get him over the pearly gates.”

Wagoner tugged on his father’s coat, then worriedly explained to him that his grandfather wouldn’t make it. He pulled a quarter from his pocket and confessed, “I got one of them quarters!”

The family home on Durham Street was within walking distance to Andy Griffith’s home, and Wagoner remembers Andy from those early days.

In 1942, Wagoner graduated from Franklin High School.

He was on the school’s basketball team. “I was real good in basketball,” he said. After graduation, Wagoner enlisted in the military. He walked to the bus stop on Main Street and caught a bus to Raleigh, where he passed the entrance examination. He attended basic training in Maryland.

During his time as an Airman 2nd Class in the U.S. Naval Air Force, Wagoner was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia; Jacksonville, Florida; Pasco, Washington; and Bunker Hill, Indiana.

“It was fun, in a way,” he said of his time in service. “Sometimes it was scary.” For instance, the parachute riggers handed him a

parachute and said, “If it doesn’t work, bring it back.”

After Wagoner was honorably discharged from Jacksonville Naval Air Station, he explored a variety of careers. He worked in a furniture factory and then a grocery store, he operated a service station, and finally served as an electrical supervisor for Pike Electric for over 20 years.

During his job as an electrical supervisor, he traveled to cities such as Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, Georgia.

After retiring at age 62, Wagoner and his wife, Geraldine, liked to travel. Their travels took them to places such as Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, Niagara Falls, Nova Scotia, Montana, and Universal Studios in California.

One fond memory from his travels occurred at Universal Studios. Volunteers were requested from the audience. Wagoner raised his hand and was selected for the role. He was directed backstage and instructed to put on a model spacesuit. The stagehands then hoisted him 25 feet into the air by a cable on the set.

Wagoner’s wife passed away in 2021. They were married for 74 years. He is currently a resident at Twelve Oaks, an assisted living facility. He enjoys walking and exercising, activities in which he participates often. “I’m still in good shape,” he said. “My mental capacity is just as good as when I was six years old.”

Wagoner said he has had numerous relatives live to and past their 100s, but he isn’t sure if there’s a specific cause or habit that can be attributed to longevity.

“As for longevity, I’ve no idea,” he said. “I’ve just tried to be good to people all my life.”

Wagoner will celebrate his 100th birthday at Chick-fil-A in Mount Airy on January 16, 2024, with his friends and family.

JANUARY 2024

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12 Surry Living Magazine

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JANUARY 2024

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LIFESTYLE

fit living

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LIFESTYLE

Ready, Set, Move

by R A C H A E L W I L L I A M S , Certified Professional Trainer

As a personal trainer and mobility coach, I often hear New Year’s resolutions about weight loss, eating right, and exercising more. If that’s where your mind goes when it’s time to make a New Year’s Resolution, you’re not alone. Gyms become crowded with New Year’s “resolutionists,” and membership sign-ups reach their yearly peak in late December and early January.

Many people see the start of the year as an opportunity for a fresh start. However, this year, I challenge you to shift your perspective and make your resolution about movement. Let’s prioritize incorporating more movement into our daily lives, understanding that it goes beyond burning calories and building muscle—it’s about enhancing our overall well-being and improving the quality of our lives.

Instead of confining exercise to a designated time slot at the gym, let’s embrace active living. Small changes can make a significant impact on our health.

Take the stairs instead of the elevator, park a little farther away from the store, or set aside regular breaks to stretch and move throughout the day. By incorporating movement into our daily routines, we create habits that contribute to our overall well-being.

Nature offers us a magnificent backdrop to include movement as well. Let’s make it a goal to spend more time outdoors and engage in activities such as hiking, cycling, or simply walking in the park or neighborhood. Being in nature not only provides physical benefits but also reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts creativity. Embrace the wonders of the natural world while getting your body moving.

Don’t be afraid to explore new forms of movement.

Step out of your comfort zone and try fitness classes, yoga, martial arts, or join a recreational sports league. Engaging in different activities challenges your body in unique ways, improving overall fitness and

preventing workout monotony. Variety keeps things exciting and helps us discover new passions.

Incorporating mobility and flexibility exercises into our routines is crucial for maintaining joint health, preventing injuries, and improving movement quality.

Dedicate time to stretch, perform mobility drills, and practice exercises that enhance range of motion. Your body will thank you with improved posture, reduced muscle tension, and enhanced performance in other activities.

Movement can also be a social activity. Invite friends, family, or coworkers to join you. Arrange group hikes, organize active outings, or form a fitness accountability group. Combining movement with social interaction not only makes it more enjoyable but also provides support and motivation to stay consistent.

As we embark on this movement-focused journey, let’s set realistic and sustainable goals. Avoid the trap of overly ambitious targets that may lead to frustration or burnout. Break down your goals into smaller, achievable milestones, and celebrate each success along the way. Remember to listen to your body, respect its limits, and honor the need for rest and recovery. Push yourself appropriately, but also recognize when to dial it back to prevent overtraining or injuries.

This New Year, let’s shift our focus from rigid fitness goals to embracing movement as a way of life. Incorporate more active living, outdoor activities, and new forms of movement into your routine. Prioritize mobility and flexibility, make movement a social activity, and set realistic and sustainable goals. The key is to enjoy the process and find joy in moving your body. Together, let’s make 2024 the year of embracing movement and reaping the countless benefits it brings. Get ready, set, and move toward a healthier and happier you!

JANUARY 2024

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BACK ROADS!

Find yourself here Whether you’re on your motorcycle, in your sports car, or the family sedan, we have fun roads to get you to some spectacular views and attractions. Picnics at a covered bridge, local wineries, camping, hiking, mountain biking, and huge music festivals are just some of the experiences you can have here. From the rugged outdoors to 5-Star luxury, there is so much to discover. visitpatrickcounty.org Visit the Patrick County Visitors Center at 126 N. Main St, Stuart, VA

JANUARY 2024

17

Quote of the Month:

“First you make your habits…then your habits make you.”

— Kevin Pyles

18 Surry Living Magazine

LIFESTYLE

Resilience

by S H E R I W R E N H A Y M O R E

20 Surry Living Magazine

We have a little blind pup named Cercie (pronounced “Surcee,” from an old colloquialism meaning “a surprise gift”). She found us at our campground on the New River, an unkempt, flea-bitten, saucy scamp of a dog. It was late in September with nobody else around to claim her, so she came home with us. Of course, we took her to the veterinarian the next day. After examining her and declaring that she had three kinds of worms, the doctor said, “This little girl

has been on the ground a while.” Then he added, “Dogs are very resilient.

They can usually overcome the things they’ve been through.”

She may have been a stray, but Cercie wasted no time taking over our lives. In the ten-plus years since, we’ve learned quite a few things from this sweet mutt.

a leash, a larger, mean dog attacked from behind. Fortunately, when the mean dog went for her throat, it came away with only a mouthful of fur.

Separating the two dogs was scary because little Cercie was not backing down. We figure that during Cercie’s time “on the ground,” she had to fight coyotes both real and imagined. I’ve seen that fierce “Tasmanian devil” come out in our sweet pup on several occasions. She certainly knows how to stand up for herself.

Personally, I don’t like confrontation, but there are times when it can’t be avoided. Cercie has taught me that it’s necessary to let my voice be heard on things that matter.

Stretch yourself.

As soon as it grew dark that first night, Cercie hid underneath our camper, something she’d no doubt been doing for some time to feel safe.

I had to haul her out and push her inside the camper where she needed to be. For a dog who apparently ran wild for months, she had much to learn. Imagine being forced to live indoors and always constrained on a leash outside when you want to run free. Imagine living among strangers who have assumptions regarding your behavior when you don’t speak the language. Imagine being given squeaky toys that obviously require killing, and not understanding why this makes your pack leader laugh and fuss at the same time. Recently, when we purchased foam steps to help her get on and off the sofa, I wondered whether she was too blind and too old to learn to use them. I made a game of it, and it took her about one minute to get the hang of it. Just as she naturally stretches her body several times daily, Cercie remains eager to stretch her abilities and understanding.

As Cercie and I have become old ladies together, she reminds me to stretch both my body and mind if I want to feel young.

Be lead dog.

Cercie is completely blind, yet she often wants to be lead dog. She cracks me up in Lowes Hardware sometimes.

She may not know where she is or where we’re heading, but there she goes, trotting ahead confidently, little ears pricked forward. That independent, self-assured attitude is one of the things that keeps us on our toes.

We need to watch her every minute to keep her from getting hurt. And yet, she’s simply following her natural inclination, acting the way she was created and trusting us to be her eyes.

In high school, I felt as anxious and confused as anyone; therefore, it came as a surprise recently when an old friend said to me, “You always seemed to know who you were and where you were going.” Cercie reminds me to surround myself with trustworthy friends who know me well enough to call out my own lead dog within.

Be fierce when necessary.

Once, when I was strolling the long driveway that runs through the campground with Cercie tagging along on

Ask for what you want.

Now that she’s older, Cercie is content to spend most of her days snoozing in a patch of sunshine. She

can be very specific with her wishes, however. When we hear her barking from one of the bedrooms, she wants one of us to come play. If she’s in our room, she wants my husband to get on the floor and fight with her, and she will not stop her fierce, growling play until she’s drawn blood. If she’s in the other room, she wants me to play blankie, which means scratch her tail while she tunnels under her blanket on the floor. If she raises her paw, she wants her belly rubbed.

Cercie teaches me—raised by a polite Southern lady—that it’s okay to make my wishes known.

Shake it off.

Just as her doctor predicted, Cercie is quite resilient. She shook off her early illnesses, gained weight and moved into her new life without looking back. Only four years old when she became blind, she took it in stride and learned to navigate her environment with ease. She accepts her circumstances as if that’s the way it’s supposed to be.

While I’m not sure I can ever be as accepting and resilient as little Cercie, she reminds me that my well-being depends on shaking things off whenever possible. She reminds me that there is life beyond difficult circumstances.

Do I sometimes wish Cercie could be a bit less yappy, less independent, a little more cuddly? I could say yes, but then she wouldn’t be our Cercie, would she? The most important thing our little pup has taught us is this: appreciate the people you love for who they are. Even the yappy ones have something to teach us.

If you’d like to hear more about Cercie’s journey, please watch “Finding Your Place” on my YouTube channel, @sherihaymore4025

JANUARY 2024

21

Wishing you a Prosperous & Healthy New Year.

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INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING JANUARY 2024

23

Blake’s sTake Take Blake’ BLAKE JOHNSON

Dear Blake,

As a single working mom, I seem to stay stressed all the time.

Whether I am at work, home, or anywhere I find myself struggling to find joy.

– Anonymous

Dear Anonymous, First, let me say I am sorry for your struggle and realize that single parent households are difficult to manage. I don’t believe people set out to be single parents, but it happens.

Fairytale endings are extremely rare. Couples separate, partners pass away, and sometimes mothers and fathers choose not to be involved. Whatever the reason, working and raising children alone can be a daunting task.

Though I can’t speak as a single working mom, I can relate as the son of one. My parents divorced when my brother and I were young. In the beginning, we lived with our mom and visited dad every other weekend. I remember how hectic it was for mom. We were always hustling to school, daycare, sports, church, and other events. Although my dad was able to help on occasion it was still tough because he lived across town.

Everyone’s situation is different and the less support someone has the tougher it is.

Without knowing the specifics of your situation, I can offer some general advice based on personal experience and observations. First, no matter what it takes, you need to develop some degree of dependable support. Most people start by reaching out to family members. If you have no family around, maybe you can call on close friends, neighbors, colleagues, or church members. Anyone you know you can trust will work. I know it is hard to ask for help but spreading yourself too thin and staying stressed is unhealthy. If something happens to you, someone will have to take over anyway.

Furthermore, anyone who cares about you will likely be happy to help if you ask.

If you don’t feel like you have anyone you can trust, there are alternatives. There are outreach programs online that are designed to relieve the stress of single parenting. Their mission is to provide support and resources for people in your situation.

If you are not able to find a program near you, try reaching out

24 Surry Living Magazine

to other single parents in your community or on social media.

Finding common ground among others can be very resourceful.

At the very least, you may find sharing your experience with others to be uplifting.

The fact that you say you are stressed all the time, and you struggle to find joy concerns me. According to the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” (DSM-5), extended bouts of depression with feelings of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness can be symptoms of major depressive disorder.

If you are struggling to find joy, you may need to consider professional help. Even if you feel like you can manage overcoming these feelings yourself it never hurts to have some extra guidance.

In addition to getting professional help, I would suggest taking a little time out every day for something you love. Life is short and we must make time for joy and laughter. A moment of joy can be rejuvenating and has the power to completely change our outlook. I would also recommend making time for some form of physical activity. Exercise is rewarding in many ways including stress release. Many physical activities don’t take up a lot of time. Most people can walk or run a mile in 15 to 20 minutes and there are plenty of exercise or stretching routines that only take a few minutes. Regardless of what you choose to do, it is crucial to carve out time for yourself and take steps to relieve your stress.

I am so happy you reached out and I want you to know that this is a great first step. Please continue to search until you find the support and stress relief that works for you. No one should be stressed all the time, and everyone should have moments of joy daily.

God Bless,

Blake

ask the expert Questions & Answers

READER QUESTION MINDFUL HEALING

Hi Kevin. Would you mind elaborating on what you mean by bringing the mind and spirit into the healing process?

Thanks again, Helen KEVIN PYLES, PT

Hi Helen. The human body is a marvel of nature, a complex system that can heal itself from injuries and illnesses. Can your mind and spirit play a significant role in this healing process? This concept, explored in depth in Dr. Caroline Leaf's groundbreaking book, “Who Switched Off My Brain?” (2009, Thomas Nelson) suggests that our thoughts and emotions can significantly influence our physical health.

Dr. Leaf, a cognitive neuroscientist, has spent decades studying the brain-mind connection. In her book, she presents compelling evidence that our thoughts can directly impact our physical well-being. Negative thoughts, she argues, can lead to physical ailments, while positive thoughts can promote healing and wellness.

When we sustain an injury, our immediate response is often fear, anxiety, or stress. These negative emotions can trigger a cascade of harmful chemicals in our bodies, which can impede the healing process. Conversely, positive emotions like hope, love, and joy can stimulate the pro-

26 Surry Living Magazine

duction of chemicals that promote healing and wellness. Take note here that love, joy, and peace are three of the biblical fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

So, how can we harness the power of our minds and spirits to heal our bodies? The first step, according to Dr. Leaf, is to become aware of our thoughts. We need to recognize when we are dwelling on negative thoughts and consciously choose to replace them with positive ones. This process, known as “detoxing your brain,” can help to reduce stress, boost your immune system, and speed up the healing process.

Meditation and mindfulness are also powerful tools for healing. These practices can help us to quiet our minds, focus on the present moment, and cultivate positive emotions. Numerous studies have shown that regular meditation can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve immune function, all of which can aid in healing.

Prayer and spiritual practices can also play a significant role in healing. Many people find com-

fort and strength in their faith during challenging times, and this can have a positive impact on their physical health. In fact, a 16-year longitudinal study from Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health (published May 16, 2016, JAMA online) found that women who attended religious services at least once a week had a lower mortality rate over the 16 years than those who did not attend services regularly.

In “Who Switched Off My Brain?” Dr. Leaf also emphasizes the importance of a healthy lifestyle in promoting healing. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can all contribute to a healthy body and mind. These habits can help to reduce stress, boost your mood, and enhance your body's natural healing abilities.

In conclusion, the power of the mind and spirit in healing is a fascinating and rapidly growing field

of study. As we continue to learn more about the brain-mind connection, we can better harness this power to promote healing and wellness. Whether you're recovering from an injury, battling an illness, or simply striving to maintain good health, remember the wisdom of Dr. Caroline Leaf: "You cannot get into the zone of perfect health until you understand the power of bringing thoughts into captivity and renewing your mind."

So, the next time you're faced with a physical challenge, remember to engage not just your body, but also your mind and spirit in the healing process.

They are your most powerful allies in the journey toward health and wellness.

In good health, Kevin Northern Rehab

Physical Therapy Kev i n P y l e s a n d h i s te a m o f s p e c i a l i ze d c l i n i c i a n s h ave b e e n s e r v i n g t h e re h a b i l i taa o n n e e d s o f S u r r y C o u nt y a n d s u r ro u n d i n g a re a s s i n c e 1 9 9 8 . W i t h ove r 2 0 0 ye a rs o f co m b i n e d p hys i ca l t h e ra py ex p e r i e n c e , t h ey ca n h e l p yo u h e a l . “ We p a r t n e r w i t h o u r p aa e nt s to fo ste r h e a l i n g t h ro u g h a p hys i ca l , m e nta l a n d s p i r i t u a l a p p ro a c h .” - Kev i n P y l e s .

S p e c i a l i z i n g i n B a c k , N e c k , Kn e e , Fo o t Pa i n , N e u ro l o g i ca l I s s u e s , S t ro ke Re h a b a n d m u c h m o re .

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JANUARY 2024

27

PERSONAL GROWTH & THE WOODSHOP JUST A THOUGHT

BY E D D I E L O W E

Gyms fill up and whole food markets flourish in January as many New Year’s resolutions involve working on outward appearances. In 2024, why not consider a resolution that involves inward growth? My hobby is woodturning bowls, and as I thought about personal growth, I noticed similarities in the process I go through with turning a raw piece of wood into something of beauty. Let’s take a look.

28 Surry Living Magazine

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

Ephesians 2:10 KJV

Sourcing In woodworking, sourcing means looking for the right wood but being realistic in the search. I will find oak, maple, and black walnut varieties in Surry County. I will not find mahogany or teak so there’s no need to look.

Pick something in your personal life that you’d like to work on this year. Be realistic. You can’t grow taller once you hit adulthood, but you can work on holding your head high and being thankful for God’s blessings.

Selecting In woodturning, there is a limit to the size I can turn on a specific lathe. So, I must select and cut an appropriately sized section of the log to fit on the lathe. Trying to turn a piece of wood that’s too large for the lathe won’t work.

Don’t expect to work on everything about yourself at once.

Select one personal trait or issue to work on. Maybe it’s bitterness or a disagreement with a family member. Perhaps it’s gossip you’ve shared or a hateful response you wish you could take back. Select your focus and work to fix it.

Sawing In woodworking, I generally cut knots out. I cut off rotted pieces and deal with splits. I really want to make the best product with what I have.

But not all imperfections in the wood are unacceptable.

Take a burl, for example. A burl is a place where a tree has healed over. It comes from growth hormones distributed by stress. But rather than being a distraction in a finished piece, a burl becomes a beautiful and desirable part of the item.

You’ve likely had times of stress, and just like the tree, the spot has healed over. Don’t cut that away. Instead use your experience to help others. Maybe your burl was bankruptcy, divorce, or the death of a loved one. You’ve healed or are still in the healing process—but others may not be as far along as you are. Some may be on the point of collapse, and I urge you to find those who are hurting and comfort them. The burl in

a tree becomes beautiful in the finished product, and you’ll be beautiful too.

Sanding In woodworking the sanding is crucial. It shapes the wood and smooths the finish. When I sand, I start with a course grit paper to shape and then move to a smoother grit to refine. I can’t skip this step and expect a nice product.

Life goes the same. If we want to be better on a personal level, we’ve got to be honest with ourselves and remove certain things. Have you ever been around someone who always complains? Is that someone you? Or maybe someone who exaggerates or belittles people? That’s like sanding pine and ignoring the rosin. You must take the rosin away before you can sand off the rough edges.

Sealing and Shining Sealing comes first because anything under the sealer needs to stay there. Have you ever painted over an unsealed wall only to have it bleed back through? In life, we also need to seal things off before we try to shine.

Maybe a job you had ended badly or a relationship that soured. Whether you were right or wrong, the point is you’ve got to move on. Just as the sealer goes on before the paint, in life you put down forgiveness first and build up from that.

I apply a shine to my woodworking projects after I’ve done my best—it’s the last step in creating my project. In woodturning, I use friction paste which is a polish. Surprisingly, the shine comes from pressure applied. In life you’ll only shine after pressure has been applied.

Showing The highlight of any hobby is when it’s time to show. God wants to get you ready to show. After all, God created us in his likeness! It’s a long way from the sourcing to the showing but it’s doable and it all comes from a new start. So, what are you working on?

JANUARY 2024

29

Three Locaaons to Serve You!

Equipment Rentals • Party Rentals • Supplies

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Serving Surry, Stokes, and the surrounding counties.

30 Surry Living Magazine

145 Industrial Drive King, NC 27021 336.985.8222

Special Event Rentals 660 West Lebanon St. Mt Airy, NC 27030

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LIFESTYLE

Is in the Air

a and

h tabat

david

ard

e viney David in th d n a a th a b Ta fall of 2023 during the

Submit a photo of the one you love and we may use it here.

Email: Info@surryliving.com Subject Line: Love is in the Air

JANUARY 2024

31

Winter Store Hours Mon-Fri: 8am - 5pm Saturday: 8am - 4pm

FARMER’S MULCH & ROCK Inc.

FREE Bibles, Coffee, & Bottled Water

Large Selection of Hardware & Over 60 Choices of Decorative Stone & Gravel

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30minute rejuvinaang massage of your choosing from 9a-2p

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“Celebrating 86 YEARS OF SERVICE in the Area!”

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34 Surry Living Magazine

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LIFESTYLE

Hometown Heroes

HeroEs don’t always wear capes. they come in all shapes and sizes.

Submit your hometown hero’s photo along with 1-2 paragraphs on why he or she is a hero and we may use it here.

Email: Info@surryliving.com Subject Line: Hometown Hero

JANUARY 2024

35

southern

taste

Make Smart Breakfast Choices in 2024

by C A R M E N L O N G with Simply Delicious

The new year is the perfect time to start new habits for improved health. Try making a “smart breakfast” part of your daily schedule. We have heard for years that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it is true. Fueling your body with a delicious breakfast after a good night’s sleep will start your day off right.

Test your breakfast knowledge with the breakfast quiz below, and plan ways to incorporate some delicious and nutritious food into your morning routine.

1. True or False. Children who eat breakfast are more likely to do better in school and have fewer behavior problems.

2. True or False. Eating breakfast improves your overall health and well-being.

3. Why is breakfast the most important meal of the day?

A. Breakfast provides your body with energy.

B. Breakfast keeps you alert.

C. Breakfast improves your overall health and well-being.

D. All the above.

4. True or False. Men and women who eat breakfast every day are less likely to be overweight.

36 Surry Living Magazine

5. True or False. It is good to include at least three of the five food groups for breakfast.

6. People who start their day with breakfast are found to: A. Eat less fat during the day.

B. Eat more fiber.

C. Get more nutrients than people who do not eat breakfast.

D. All the above.

7. True or False. You should choose cereals high in sugar.

8. What are some ways to make time for breakfast?

A. Plan an easy breakfast, like peanut butter and jelly toast.

B. Make a “to go” breakfast the night before.

C. Get up 10 minutes earlier.

D. All the above.

9. An example of a breakfast food that is healthy and quick is: A. A doughnut B. Toast with peanut butter C. Sugar-coated cereal D. Fried foods 10. The following breakfast example includes foods from which food groups? One slice whole wheat toast with peanut butter, One cup milk, and one medium banana.

A. Grains, Dairy, Protein Foods, and Fruit B. Protein Foods and Vegetable C. Dairy, Grains, and Vegetable D. Fruit, Vegetables, and Grains

SOUTHERN TASTE

A HEALTHY COMBINATION Choose a food from each of the three groups listed below to create different breakfast combinations for you and your family. Feel free to add your own items to the list. Remember, the goal is to include a grain, protein/ dairy, and fruit/vegetable every morning. Be sure to include plenty of these items on your grocery list so you can make a plan and stick to it. Your body will thank you!

• Whole wheat toast • Low-fat granola bar • Oatmeal • Whole wheat toaster waffle • Whole-grain cereal

Sources: North Carolina Expanded Foods and Nutrition Education Program and University of Nebraska Lincoln, Nutrition Education Program

PROTEIN/DAIRY: Low-fat milk • Lowfat string cheese • Low-fat cottage cheese • Low-fat yogurt • Peanut butter • Hard-cooked egg • Hummus • Low-fat ham or turkey

LET’S GET STARTED Here are two healthy and delicious breakfast recipes to get you started on a healthy new year, Custom Egg Muffins and Peanut Butter and Apple Sandwiches.

FRUIT/VEGETABLE: Banana • Raisins • Apple • Grapes • Orange slices • Kiwi • Tomato juice • Broccoli • Sliced tomato • Other in-season fruits/ vegetables

GRAIN: Whole wheat tortilla • Wholegrain bagel • Whole wheat pita bread

How did you do on the quiz? Answers: 1. True, 2. True, 3. D, 4. True, 5. True, 6. D, 7. False, 8. D, 9. B, 10. A

CUSTOM EGG MUFFINS INGREDIENTS •

8 large eggs

•

1/2 cup reduced fat milk

•

1/4 teaspoon salt

•

1/4 teaspoon pepper

•

Vegetables, meat or beans, and cheese of your choice (a great way to use leftover roasted vegetables and meats)

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

2. Prepare the base by whisking together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

PEANUT BUTTER AND APPLE SANDWICH Source: Med Instead of Meds

3. Spray a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray.

4. Divide chopped vegetables and protein (like cooked meat, tofu, or beans), cheese, and a small sprinkling of seasonings (such as herbs, salsa, or even sun-dried tomatoes) among the muffin cups.

5. Top with egg mixture and bake until set and lightly brown, about 20 to 25 minutes.

6. Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container or freeze for longer storage. They’re delicious right out of the fridge or quickly reheated in the microwave—wrap egg muffins in a paper towel and microwave on high for 30 to 60 seconds.

INGREDIENTS •

2 slices 100% whole wheat bread

•

2 tablespoons natural peanut butter

•

1 small apple (or 10 halved grapes)

•

EGG MUFFIN CUSTOM INGREDIENTS IDEAS The Custom Egg Muffins in the photo were made with spinach, mushrooms, cheese, bacon pieces, and chives. Other combinations to try: •

Red bell pepper, black beans, pepper jack cheese, and salsa

•

Broccoli, chopped ham or bacon, cheese, and chives

•

Onions, sausage, cheese, and parsley

DIRECTIONS 1. Spread peanut butter on whole wheat bread.

2. Cut the apple into thin slices and place on peanut butter.

3. Sprinkle with cinnamon.

4. Add the top piece of bread to your PB&A sandwich and enjoy!

½ teaspoon cinnamon

JANUARY 2024

37

SOUTHERNTASTE

Prep time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serving Size: 8

by R Y N N H E N N I N G S The Sweet and Savory Life

The benefits of eating broccoli are multifold: it is a good source of vitamins including K and C, it’s full of calcium, and it is anti-inflammatory to name a few. At one time in my life, even knowing these health benefits, I couldn’t bring myself to eat broccoli.

I painstakingly learned to eat raw florets on salads as I got older, but cooked broccoli remained too mushy and was usually served smothered in too much cheese sauce.

Then one day I was introduced to broccoli stir-fried in garlic sauce. This broccoli maintained its crunch and its appetizing bright green color instead of the soggy and washed-out look I was used to seeing served. This inspired me to experiment at home to learn how to make a good-tasting broccoli dish. I started by cooking broccoli in broth instead of water and being careful not to cook out the crunch.

Then, I tried roasting broccoli in the oven and found that it had a different taste from both boiling and stir-frying. With all these delicious ways to cook broccoli under my belt, I was hooked on this superfood!

This roasted broccoli recipe is one that I have used over and over because it is always so well received. Someone asks me for the recipe every time I serve it. It is easy and quick to make, tastes great, and even has the broccoli-averse giving it a try!

ROASTED BROCCOLI WITH PECANS

INGREDIENTS •

4 heads broccoli, washed and cut into florets

•

1/3 cup olive oil

•

1 1/2 teaspoons pepper

•

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

•

1/3 cup pecans, chopped

•

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

DIRECTIONS FOR BROCCOLI 1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2. Place broccoli in a large baking dish or a jelly roll pan with sides and toss with oil, pepper, and salt.

3. Bake for 15 minutes or until browned.

DIRECTIONS FOR PECANS 1. In a skillet, place the pecan pieces and cook on medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until they start to brown. Turn off the heat and place butter in the skillet and let it melt.

Stir to coat the pecans.

2. When the broccoli comes out of the oven, drizzle the melted butter and pecans over the broccoli and stir to coat. Serve immediately.

SWEET AND SAVORY HINTS • This recipe is best when served right out of the oven.

• Broccoli shrinks when roasted so what looks like a lot of florets before cooking will be a lot less after roasting.

• For less browned broccoli, reduce cooking time to 12 minutes.

• The broccoli browns better when placed in a single layer in the cooking pan.

• For ease of preparation, cut up the broccoli and pecans a day ahead of time and store each in their own plastic bag.

• For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cooked broccoli and stir.

• If using salted butter, reduce the salt amount to 1 teaspoon.

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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE PROGRAM (AEP) SOUTHERN TASTE

OFFERING FIRST RATE HOME SCHOOL SOLUTIONS

● Instruction by a NCDPI certified teacher

● Full curriculum development and oversight ● An individualized learning approach ● A critical thinking prioritization ● A fostered love for learning

● Tutoring included as needed

● A curriculum that includes character development,

life skills and success skills ● An economical option as compared to tutoring

● Must complete an application

● Must complete an in-person interview

● Child must be dedicated, respectful and desire to excel

*Classes currently held at Freedom and Liberty Church off Cook School Road

JANUARY 2024

39

Home

farm

& Garden

Winter Bird-Watching

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

A sense of peace comes with listening to bird sounds and watching birds play, fly, and visit feeders. No doubt connecting with nature through bird-watching decreases stress levels.

While millions of birds fly south for the winter to seek warmer temperatures, many tough it out and remain in North Carolina. So, do not fret. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the bird-watching year-round.

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Providing food for birds throughout the winter will help attract more to your landscape. And selecting the right food is important. Bill Thompson III, who founded Bird Watcher’s Digest, recommended these options for stocking winter feeders: • Black oil sunflower seeds have a thin shell and are easy to crack. All birds will eat it.

• Peanuts (de-shelled, dry-roasted, unsalted) are high-protein and high-energy. They attract woodpeckers, jays, nuthatches, chickadees, cardinals, finches, and titmice.

• Suet has high-fat content. Ask your butcher if you can’t find suet.

• Good mixed seed includes substantial amounts of sunflower seed, cracked corn, white proso millet (attracts doves, cardinals, and quail), and peanut hearts.

• Nyjer/thistle seed is loved by small finches (goldfinches, house, purple, Cassin’s finches, pine siskins, and redpolls). Use a thistle feeder.

• Safflower is sold in bulk at feed stores. Place safflower in a sunflower seed feeder. Many birds like safflower.

• Cracked corn is favored by sparrows, blackbirds, jays, doves, and quail. Beware of squirrels who love cracked corn.

• Mealworms are loved by many birds, except goldfinches. Thompson suggests adding 1,000 mealworms in a tub of old-fashioned oats and distributing them in a shallow ceramic dish they cannot crawl out of.

• Fruits like grapes, apples, bananas, or sliced citrus are loved by many birds. Include raisins by chopping and soaking them in warm water to soften.

Birds also enjoy homemade treats. The National Audubon Society recommends this homemade, vegetarian suet recipe to attract woodpeckers, wrens, chickadees, nuthatches, and titmice. This lipid-rich treat is a great substitute for birds that normally feast on insects. This recipe is not recommended for outdoor temperatures above 50 degrees.

Homemade Suet Yield: approximately five one-cup suet containers. One cup will also make about two pine cone feeders (spread the soft mixture on a pine cone and hang it for the birds to enjoy).

Ingredients: • 1 ½ cups shortening (look for options without palm oil) • ¾ cups nut butter (any kind) • 3 ½ cups wild bird seed • 1 cup quick oats • ½ cup corn meal • Ice cube tray Directions: 1. Mix the dry ingredients of bird seeds, oats, and corn meal together and set aside.

2. Combine the shortening and nut butter in a separate bowl and melt.

Stir until completely combined.

3. Pour the melted mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.

4. Spoon mixture into the ice cube tray.

5. Freeze for one to two hours and place in your suet feeder.

Anything worthwhile requires work.

Feeding the birds in the winter (or any time) is no different. While it’s fun to provide food for birds and watch them flock to the feeders, it’s important to keep the feeders clean to prevent harm to the birds that visit. Scrub out feeders with a 10% non-chlorinated bleach solution two to three times per year, especially between seasons. This will make the best environment for our joyful critters.

There are many types of feeder styles.

Purchase one that is made for the bird(s) you would like to attract and the type of food. Another food tip to keep in mind, seed mixes filled with fillers such as milo makes a mess under the feeder because most birds sort the milo out. The forgotten milo seeds can create a sludgy mixture that can make the birds sick. Avoid milo filler seed mixes or clean up the excess promptly. Look for seed mixtures containing fillers such as cracked corn and millet for better results.

Have fun and enjoy your bird-watching!

JANUARY 2024

41

Pets

& livestock

WELLNESS:

CONSIDERING THE WHOLE ANIMAL

BY SARAH SOUTHARD, DVM

What is wellness? We often think of wellness in terms of lack of illness. “My animals are not sick, they are well.” But just as with humans, wellness for our animals encompasses much more than simply the lack of sickness. When we consider whole-animal wellness, we should consider all facets of living: physical needs (health, physical fitness, proper nutrition, preventive care programs) and psychological (social interaction, mental stimulation, proper environmental provisions, and enrichment). As this

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column typically focuses more on the physical needs categories, let’s look at the psychological aspects of animal wellness this month.

For all species, animal and human alike, proper social interaction is imperative to complete health. While certain animals live independently and prefer solitude, others require a minimum amount of interaction with their own or similar species. For example, sheep are prey animals which have an exceptionally strong flocking instinct. It is incredibly stressful to

them for one or two sheep to be singled out and housed alone. Bears, on the other hand, prefer to live the majority of their adult lives alone.

Improper social interaction long-term has the potential to lead to stress-induced health problems, development of undesirable or dangerous behaviors, or other adverse reactions. We commonly see problem behaviors in domestic animals which do not receive proper types and amounts of social interaction with their owners. Many of our pets desire positive

interaction and activity with us. When those interactions are missing, animals resort to adverse attention-seeking behaviors which often further damage the already weak relationship between pet and owner.

As important as proper social interaction, proper mental stimulation is also essential to animal wellness. Animals are problem solvers by nature. In the wild, they come across various challenges to overcome on a daily basis. Our domesticated animals are no different and will tend to be happier and healthier when given proper ways to exercise their brains. Again, different species (and even different breeds within a species) will have varying requirements. We must know the specific needs of our charges and provide appropriately for them. Boredom resulting from lack of appropriate mental stimulation will lead to the development of unwanted behaviors which can lead to breakdown of the human-animal bond. Environmental enrichment goes hand-in-hand with mental stimulation. Environmental enrichment refers to the process of manipulating an animal’s

FOCUSING ON PERSONAL INJURY AND WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CLAIMS

environment to increase appropriate species-specific behaviors.

For example, cats instinctively have the urge to hunt, pounce, and climb. Enriching an indoor cat’s environment with objects which allow it to appropriately display these natural behaviors is mentally engaging for the cat and will decrease the potential for the cat to inappropriately display such behaviors (i.e., climb the provided cat tree rather than your custom drapes).

Wellness for animals is not simply lack of sickness. Wellness is a large multipiece puzzle involving considerations of the whole animal and its environment. Educate yourself on your particular animal’s needs. Consult the veterinarian familiar with your animal and your situation to help determine the best ways to ensure overall wellness for your furry companion. Seek out behavior and training professionals if necessary to improve your relationship with your pet. And be committed to providing for all facets of your animal’s wellness for their lifetime of health and happiness, while enriching your own!

BECAUSE WE KNOW YOU LOVE YOUR PETS

4 Veterinarians to Serve You Offering a full line of Veterinary services including advanced orthopedics, rehab, and now extended evening urgent care hours.

Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 8am to 6pm Fri. 8-5pm Sat. 8-11:30am Urgent Care 6-8pm 111 Healthy Trail • Mount Airy, NC • 336-789-0009 foothillspethealthcareclinic.com JANUARY 2024

43

Turning moments into masterpeices

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SURRY SEEN

SUBMIT A SELFIE OR A PHOTO OF A FRIEND HOLDING UP SURRY LIVING MAGAZINE AND WE MAY USE IT HERE. EMAIL: INFO@SURRYLIVING.COM SUBJECT LINE: SURRY SEEN

JANUARY 2024

45

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN

Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense

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

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.

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

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

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

“I remember, but now that he is gone, I’m sad and lonely. He was here in the stall next to me for a year, Hay-Woman. We went everywhere together, talked about our goals and dreams, you know—BFFs.” Ranger had come to me for training.

He had a wonderful disposition, and his training went smoothly. He was willing, sweet, and gentle. I fell in love with him too. There is a cheeky saying in the horse world that holds a lot of truth, “horses are like potato chips, it’s hard to have just one.” But when a father contacted me wanting a safe, reliable mount for his teenage daughter, I knew Ranger had found his new home. Making the right decision can be difficult even if you know its best. I admit I wiped more than a few tears when he left.

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

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

Both wore smiles as big as Texas.

Traveler looked intently at the picture.

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

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

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

“That’s the truth, my friend.”

snowphotography45@mypixieset.com

Natalie Snow 336-813-2574

Occupational Therapy N o r t h e r n Re h a b h a s M o u nt A i r y ’s o n l y C e r r fi e d H a n d T h e ra p i st . C e r r fi e d H a n d T h e ra p i st s u n d e rgo r i go ro u s t ra i n i n g to s p e c i a l i ze i n t re aa n g h a n d a n d u p p e r ex t re m i t y i s s u e s .

S p e c i a l i z i n g i n : H a n d T h e ra py, C u sto m S p l i nn n g , S p o r t / Wo r k s p e c i fi c Tra i n i n g , C a r p e l Tu n n e l , S t ro ke Re h a b a n d m u c h m o re .

336-719-7129

South Street Medical Park 314 S. South Street, Suite 100 Mount Airy, NC 27030

JANUARY 2024

47

JANUARY EVENTS

MOUNT AIRY

06 Breaking Up Christmas

Featuring Trish Fore and the Wildcats Historic Earle Theatre Saturday, January 6, 2024, 7:00 p.m.

Purcell & Cane Mill Road 13 Liam Historic Earle Theatre Saturday, January 13, 2024, 7:30 pm

Mystery Party the Bloodwood 20 Murder Masquerade Murder Andy Griffith Playhouse Saturday, January 20, 2024, 6:00 pm

DOBSON

Vineyards 12 Shelton Chef and Winemaker Dinner January 12, 2024, 6:30-9:30 pm 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson NC 27017

ELKIN Winter Farmers Market Nov-mid April, Saturdays 9am – 12 noon Indoors at the Yadkin Valley Heritage & Trails Center The Reeves Theater & Café Open Mic Night Every Wednesday, 6:30-8P 129 W.Main St, Elkin, 28621

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GALAX, VA Creek Bottom Brewing

Events are free unless noted below.

Jan. 3 Jan. 5 Jan. 6 Jan. 10 Jan. 11 Jan. 12 Jan. 13 Jan. 17 Jan. 19 Jan. 20 Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 26 Jan. 31

Jake Cox (7-9 PM) Jonah Carden (7-10 PM) Stillwater Junction (7-10 PM) $5 Cover Jake Cox (7-9 PM) Karaoke w/ Rodney Glidewell & DJ Bubba Base (7-9 PM) William Massey (7-9 PM) Phonic45 (7-10 PM) $5 Cover Jake Cox (7-9 PM) Phillip Caudle Duo (7-10 PM) Billy Steele (7-10 PM) Jake Cox (7-9 PM) Karaoke w/ Rodney Glidewell & DJ Bubba Base (7-9 PM) Anna Mertson George (7-10 PM) Jake Cox (7-9 PM)

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