CONTRIBUTORS
Mark Levin, Writer and Photographer
Mark is retired from a career in education, both in and outside of the classroom. He enjoys traveling in his campervan and finding stories about the people and places encountered along the way. You can follow his blog at FoothillsFaces.com as well as at youtube.com/ TheCountryLifeWithColumbusMark.
Linda List, Writer and Photographer
Linda List’s career was spent in the food industry, often surrounded by chocolate and candy. Retirement and the Tryon Daily Bulletin have provided the opportunity for her to share her writing. Growing up in New York on the Canadian border, she lived most of her adult life at the foot of the Rockies in Golden, Colo. And is now enjoying life in Landrum the foot of the Smokies.
Kirk Gollwitzer, Writer and Photographer
Kirk Gollwitzer is a freelance writer, musician, photographer, videographer, and real estate broker specializing in buying and selling homes and horse properties. A former key figure and co-founder of the Tryon International Film Festival, he has done several documentaries and has written two novels.
Emily Williams, Writer and Photographer
Emily Williams is a recent graduate of North Greenville University with a Bachelor of Arts in English. She is currently pursuing her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing while working as a substitute teacher. In her free time, Emily loves to explore Western North Carolina, try out new coffee shops, and write fiction and nonfiction alike.
Storme Smith, Writer and Photographer
Storme Smith is a writer who lives in the Foothills of North Carolina. He is the co-founder and publisher of Buno Books, and has a passion for the arts. He also enjoys writing about the history, sports and unique people and places of our area.
Pebbles, Writer
Pebbles is the “spokespony” for HERD, or Helping Equines Regain Dignity, a local nonprofit that saves equines from dire conditions and in many cases slaughter. She dictates her monthly columns about her adventures, and what a rescue organization does, to Heather Freeman. Pebbles and Heather can be reached through HerdRescue.org
ON THE COVER
FROM THE EDITOR
With spring now in full swing, we welcome you to the April edition of Life in Our Foothills! As April showers and warmer temps bring rejuvenation to local gardens and landscapes and outdoor gatherings begin to dot our beloved downtowns, now is the perfect time to highlight a few of the local figures in our communities who contribute to the unique fabric of what makes us so special.
First, we visit with local historian and author Susan Story Speight as she shares the history of “Camp Skyuka,” which used to exist atop White Oak Mountian. We also meet with Mike Locke, the “quiet creator” whose paintings and other artwork are featured in this month’s pages.
Additionally, we learn about the helping hands behind the Massage Therapy class at Isothermal Community College’s Polk Campus as a new wave of students advance through the program.
Of course, we also hear from our resident spokespony, Pebbles, as she welcomes a new pasture mate, Presto, to the HERD family. You’ll find all of this and more in this month’s edition! We hope you enjoy what we’ve put together for you this month, and as I do each month, I encourage readers to reach out and help us share your story. Email me at jeff.allison@tryondailybulletin.com with any thoughts or ideas for upcoming issues. As always, thanks for reading!
Exploring the History of the Foothills
A Conversation with Susan Story Speight Story on page 14
Story By Storme Smith
Jeff Allison Editor
Jeff Allison Publisher
Mike Locke The Quiet Creator
Helping Hands ICC’s Massage Therapy Program
Pebbles Presto for Pesto
Publisher and General Manager
Jeff Allison
FOOTHILLS life IN OUR STAFF
Graphic Design
Zeal Kadhikhaye
Marketing
Lynn Cromer
Distribution
Jamie Lewis
Alex Greene
Administration
Stacey Tully
Life in Our Foothills is published monthly by Tryon Newsmedia LLC. Life in Our Foothills is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Tryon Newsmedia LLC. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Please address all correspondence (including, but not limited to, letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to Manager, Life in Our Foothills, 16. N. Trade St., Tryon, NC 28782, or email to jeff.allison@ tryondailybulletin.com. Life in Our Foothills is available free of charge at locations throughout Polk County and Upstate South Carolina, and online at www.tryondailybulletin.com. Subscriptions are available for $30 per year by calling 828-859-9151. To advertise, call 828-859-9151.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Mapping My Universe: Paintings & Works on Paper by Luis Jaramillo
Parallel Line: Dana Jones & Ralston Fox Smith
From Earth to Archetype: New Clay by Glenda Guion
Through April 25 Upstairs Artspace
49 S. Trade St., Tryon UpstairsArtspace.org
Louder than Words: All Members Exhibit
Through April 26
Tryon Painters and Sculptors
78 N. Trade St., Tryon TryonPaintersAndSculptors.com
Landrum Farmers Market
April 5, 12, 19, 26 from 8 am - 12 pm
221 W. Rutherford St., Landrum LandrumFarmersMarket.com
Movie: The Godfather Part II
April 8 at 7 pm
Tryon Fine Arts Center 34 Melrose Ave., Tryon TryonArts.org
Tryon Riding & Hunt Club 100 Year Celebration
April 10 at 6 pm
The Fitzgerald
69 Pacolet St., Tryon Rsvp at TryonRidingAndHuntClub. org
Westside Mixer & 65th Anniversary Kick-off Celebration
April 11
Tryon Arts & Crafts School 373 Harmon Field Rd., Tryon TryonArtsAndCrafts.org
World Wanderings: Thailand, Songkran
April 15 at 3:30 pm
Polk County Public Library 1289 W. Mills St., Columbus Rsvp at PolkLibrary.org
Chamber Business After Hours:
1878 Butcher’s Block
April 17 at 5:30 pm
227 E. Rutherford St., Landrum Rsvp at CarolinaFoothillsChamber. com
Walnut Creek Preserve Speaker Series: Caring for Trees on Your Property
April 19 at 10:30 am
Anne Elizabeth Suratt Nature Center at Walnut Creek Preserve 179 Wood Thrush Lane, Mill Spring ConservingCarolina.org
APRIL
8 Saluda Library Speaker Series: History of the Saluda Grade
April 8 at 2 pm
Saluda Library 44 W. Main St., Saluda ConservingCarolina.org
Easter Egg Hunt
April 19 at 11 am
Stearns Park 125 E. Mills St., Columbus
Free Concert
April 19 at 3 pm
Holy Cross Episcopal Church 150 Melrose Ave., Tryon HolyCrossTryon.org
Easter at Tryon International April 20
Easter Brunch 11 am and 1 pm
Egg Hunts 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm 25 International Blvd., Mill Spring Tryon.com
Philip Greenberg
FOOTHILLS DISCOVERIES
Compiled and Photographed by Mark Levin
Each month, you’ll be introduced to something in our area worth exploring. Some of these will be familiar, but perhaps you’ve never been or haven’t been in years. Others might be things you have never heard of or thought to visit. All of these will be family-friendly and either free or inexpensive. Get out there!
Tom Raymond Memorial Fitness Trail & the
Isothermal Community College Loop
The Tom Raymond Fitness Trail was upgraded in 2023 and more recently cleaned up after Helene’s damage. It’s ready for you to enjoy. This is a perfect hike to take to stretch your legs. If you feel adventurous and want to get some more strenuous exercise, there are eight exercise stations along the way. Each works on a different set of muscles, and each should be used with caution. Instructions are posted at each station and there’s a weblink for additional info. And the great news is, if you mess yourself up – you can crawl to the Advent Health Polk Hospital Emergency Room or call for help. The Tom Raymond Trail is 4/10th of a mile each way.
Parents must supervise their children on the exercise equipment and along the trail. Leashed dogs are welcome. Please be kind and clean up any messes.
Along the trip, you’ll see an option to connect with the ICC Loop Trail. This extra half-mile brings you up to the ICC Polk Campus and back again. Both trails are well maintained with very little elevation gain. You’ll even get some views of the Polk County mountains.
Both trails are managed by Polk Trails. For more info: www.PolkTrails.org
Entrance to the Tom Raymond Fitness Trail.
Trail layout and “rules.”
View from the trail.
Directions:
Parking for the Tom Raymond Fitness Trail is located behind Advent Health Polk Hospital. Park in the lot across from the ER entrance. You’ll see the start of the trail over by the Emergency Services building. You could also start in the ICC/Polk County Library parking lot and start with the loop trail and connect with the Tom Raymond Trail.
Tom Raymond Trail.
Trail junction.
I saw no Sasquatch activity the day I was on the trail.
Taking a rest.
Exercise station.
Gazebo along the trail overlooking the medical building at 130 Forest Glen Road.
Susan Story Speight plays the role of Helen Stearns, a Polk County historic figure at an event at Lanier Library.
Exploring the History of the Foothills
A Conversation with Susan Story Speight
Story and Photography by Storme Smith
Camp Skyuka and its home atop White Oak Mountain are places steeped in history and cherished memories for many in the Foothills. In recent years, White Oak resident Susan Story Speight, an author and enthusiastic local historian, has written two books about them. Speight delved into her connection to the camp and the mountain and then brought that connection to the Polk County Museum.
Although many might associate her surname with the story of a family of the area, Susan proudly shares that her roots are not local and can be traced back to Knoxville, Tennessee. Susan began with a humorous anecdote from one of her early book signings at the Polk County Museum. Many attendees presumed she must be related to the local Story family, a mix-up that elicited laughs. Susan's journey as an author began somewhat serendipitously. In 2004, she and her husband, Charlie, purchased what is known as the Lions Cabin at Camp Skyuka. As they settled in, a curious influx of campers and counselors soon came to see the historic lodge, and it became clear to Susan that the camp’s rich history needed documenting. Overwhelmed by the stories emanating from the visitors, she felt a compelling sense of responsibility, which led her to embrace her newfound calling. "My books were an assignment," she said, reflecting on the impetus to capture the camp's legacy. Initially established by the
Susan Story Speight
Spartanburg YMCA in 1954, Camp Skyuka has served as a rite of passage for many children in the Spartanburg area. Susan realized that nobody had taken the time to write down these cherished memories, making her task increasingly important.
“I’m just passionate about preserving these stories,” she explained. One of Susan’s book titles pays homage to the song "As We Climb the Mountain," echoing the picturesque setting of Camp Skyuka and its significance in our local history.
Her endeavor was bolstered by the discovery that her great-grandfather, George F. Barber, a renowned architect from Knoxville, designed the historic Skyuka Hotel, which came before the camp. This surprising family connection imbued her project with a personal significance that further fueled her research efforts. Susan's quest extended beyond her lineage; she became fascinated with the Stearns family, which was integral in developing the hotel and the surrounding landscape. She unearthed stories and details that once lay dormant through
Literature associated with Camp Skyuka
interviews and archival research, waiting for a passionate storyteller to bring them alive. During her research, Susan stumbled upon one of the most compelling narratives about Fanny Jones Ricks, a notable figure in the area whose home, Ricks Haven, once thrived near Tryon Peak. Although the original residence no longer stands, its foundation holds whispers of a brilliant past. Armed with photographs and personal accounts from Ricks' descendants, Susan wrote a vivid picture of
what once was, showcasing a lifestyle that reflected the wealth and sophistication of its time. Her exploration was not just personal; it also connected her to the local community. Initially, she faced challenges in her research, but when a former camp employee unexpectedly mailed her a packet of photos and brochures, Susan knew she had hit the jackpot. As her commitment to documenting the camp's history grew, Susan began collaborating with the Polk County Historical Association on
Susan Story Speight
The Park Drag Coach, one of the artifacts at the history museum that can be “adopted.”
various projects, including a detailed map of the region's development and the digitization of glass plate negatives with John Vining.
As her involvement with the museum deepened, Susan realized that funding was crucial. Embracing this challenge, she joined the museum's board and has become a driving force in launching fundraising initiatives and helping with the museum's recent move to the House of Flags. She has also aided with a museum project, selling a plat of a proposed plan for Columbus by Frank Stearns from the 1800s and allowing residents to adopt museum pieces.
Susan is proud of the museum’s collaboration with Robert Williamson, the director of the House of Flags, and the recent combination of the museum with the local landmark. This collaboration emphasizes a shared commitment to preserving heritage and perpetuating the narratives that tie the community together.
Susan adds, “Merging legacies is beautiful. It ensures that our past remains vibrant.”
Her role as a community advocate has underscored that history is more than just dates and facts; it’s a tapestry woven from personal stories and
shared experiences. Through her dedication, she reminds us that storytelling nurtures our collective memory. Susan's background is as colorful as the tales she weaves in her writing. Before moving to Spartanburg, she spent significant time crafting a unique career in South Carolina, including starting a birthday party service in 1977. After establishing her party service, Susan opened "Scoopers," an ice cream parlor in Greenville that featured puppet shows and live characters for children.
Her entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop there. Susan was crucial in revitalizing downtown Greenville through
her work with the Greenville Downtown Business Association. In 1982, she helped create "Fall for Greenville," an annual celebration that has grown into a major three-day event, drawing thousands of visitors and earning accolades in Southern Living magazine.
In exploring the narratives that shape the Foothills' history, Susan reminds us that history is not merely a relic of the past but a living, breathing entity that
informs our present and guides our future. Through her efforts, she inspires a new generation to appreciate the rich heritage of their communities, ensuring that the cherished tales of places like Camp Skyuka continue to resonate for years to come. For anyone seeking to uncover the hidden treasures of the history of our area, Susan Speight’s books and the Polk County History Museum serve as invaluable resources.
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Speight has become an expert on the history of Camp Skyuka, formerly located on White Oak Mountain.
Speight has authored two books on local history.
A vibrant and dynamic painting by Mike Locke captures a surreal jam session, blending abstract forms and bold colors to bring the music to life. His unique style distorts reality, making each musician feel like a character from a dreamlike world. (Photo Credit: Mike Locke)
The Quiet Creator
Story by Kirk Gollwitzer
Over the years, I’ve met many people in our small town—real estate investors, poets, musicians, doctors, lawyers, gemologists, painters. Some are talkative and outgoing; others are quiet and reserved.
It’s the quieter, less outspoken people who have drawn my attention the most. Mike Locke is one such individual, a quiet contributor whose work speaks loudly, even when he doesn’t.
Mike lives in downtown Tryon, where he keeps a low profile. Though not a social fixture, he has a presence. He can often be found sitting on a bench in front of the Marathon station, playing guitar—sometimes covers, sometimes originals— lost in his own world of music.
Beyond his solo performances, Mike is a regular member of The Basement Bunch, a local band known for its raw, down-to-earth sound. Whether playing with the band or alone, music remains a steady part of his life, much like his art.
By trade, Mike is a bellhop, valet, and shuttle driver at the Biltmore Park Hyatt, part of Biltmore
Farms LLC in Asheville. He enjoys his relationship with the owners and staff.
“I’m a sensible, ‘What do you need me to do?’ kind of guy,” he says. “I work hard for people who treat me with respect, not from the top of their nose.”
He’s driven high-end cars for wealthy guests and appreciates the estate’s history. One of his favorite memories is having lunch with a member of the Vanderbilt family in Asheville’s Arts District.
But art defines Mike the most. His paintings,
YEAR-ROUND DINING
Mike Locke’s surreal take on urban landscapes presents a moody, geometric composition where ravens, a classic symbol of mystery, perch against an eerie backdrop. His signature use of distorted perspective and textured strokes gives the scene an otherworldly depth. (Photo Credit: Mike Locke)
sketches, and animated work speak for themselves. His style is so distinct that his pieces hardly require a signature—you know it’s a Locke piece as soon as you see it.
“It’s fun to be a painter because you can do all these things without leaving the chair,” he says. “I just want to make the craziest paintings possible—there are no rules to it. That’s the way I want it to be.”
His artistic journey began in third grade, inspired by a friend. “My work has never
stopped,” he says. In the late ’60s, he started copying posters. “When I didn’t have anything to do, and I didn’t want to do anything, I would do art. I was the guy who would get awards. I took art through high school and got some cartoon awards.”
Originally from Winston-Salem, Mike pursued formal art education at the prestigious Ringling School of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida, then ranked the number three art school in the country.
“I had to learn all the
Mike Locke’s whimsical painting of a banjo-playing frog captures his playful, surreal artistic style. The vivid greens and expressive lines bring a sense of humor and charm to this nature-inspired character.
(Photo Credit: Mike Locke)
Performing outside a local shop, Mike Locke and his bandmate deliver stripped-down, heartfelt tunes to passersby. The playfulness of his artistic spirit is evident in the digitally illustrated sandwich, adding a touch of surrealism to the real-world performance. (Photo Credit: Mike Locke)
basic rules of creation,” he recalls. “I had to reprogram my whole thinking when I started drawing nudes. Back then, I was more competitive, but at some point, I realized I just wanted to have fun with it.”
His paintings are abstract and surreal, thick with textures and bold strokes. He admires other local artists and finds inspiration in hidden, out-of-the-way places. His color choices are distinctly his—pale, dusty blues, grays, reds, and muted yellows. “Like the spaces in the pictures that mean a lot—the color between the characters is import-
ant. Sometimes, those spaces are more important than what you are trying to show.”
Mike has a fascination with old buildings and captures them through photography. “It’s nice to have a camera and a phone,” he says. “Rotten old places with vines, shadows, etc. I do oils, just smear it on, make it look thick.”
His work often features surreal juxtapositions. “I like to make up things like back alleyways. The weird people coming around the corner. Something that constitutes a further dimension beyond the picture. To take you
there to say, ‘What’s behind this?’”
He also looks for recurring motifs. “A cat is not really a cat—it’s a pattern. Frog patterns. Anything that just says one thing is good enough.” His compositions are dynamic, with an almost subconscious layering of imagery. “I try to be more obvious in what I’m saying, putting a juxtaposition of different elements together—to somehow work together and not make any sense at all.”
Beyond paintings, Mike has created short animated cartoon-style
videos, carrying the same surreal, experimental energy as his art. His animations blend unusual characters, strange settings, and unexpected juxtapositions. Like his paintings, they don’t follow conventional rules but carve out their own visual language.
He shares his work on Facebook, often posting digitally altered images or surreal compositions. “I just want to make up random things, like ‘the boy clown in the woods.’” His imagination is unrestrained, leading to unpredictable yet captivating results.
A traditional portrait of Mike Locke offers a more classical representation of the artist, showcasing a softer, introspective side. The detailed brushwork contrasts with his typically bold and abstract artistic style.
(Portrait Credit: Rich Nelson)
In this monochromatic yet expressive portrait, Mike Locke explores the depth of character in a political figure, focusing on stark contrasts and gestural brushwork. The hauntingly unfinished background adds an element of mystery to the subject. (Photo Credit: Mike Locke)
Mike describes his artistic drive as a constant force. “Living around here has been good for me—to gain different things from people and watch how they apply them.” Whether he’s capturing the hidden details of an abandoned building, layering colors in a thick, textured swirl, or bringing surreal characters to life in animation, he remains dedicated to his craft. Family is also an essential part of his life. His wife, Jeannette, is involved in ministry at Carolina Foothills
Christian Fellowship, and his daughter, Deborah, attends Polk High School, where she enjoys drama.
Art has always been his escape, his framework. “It makes me say to myself, ‘I just want to go there.’”
Mike would like to thank Katie D'Oyen and her husband, Don Jaeger, owners of K.D.'s Sea Shack, as well as The Garage On 25 in Fletcher, N.C., for supporting his work. His art can also be found on Facebook.
Seated in a quiet corner, Mike Locke strums his guitar, embodying the solitude and passion that fuel both his music and art. His raw, unfiltered approach to creativity shines through in every performance. (Photo Credit: Mike Locke)
Mike Locke’s lively portrait of Ringo Starr bursts with psychedelic energy, paying tribute to the musician’s legendary presence. The swirling colors and expressive strokes echo the playful, vibrant essence of 1960s pop art. (Photo Credit: Mike Locke)
Helping Hands
ICC’s Massage Therapy Program
Liz Mills, Instructor and Education Director
Story by Clay Johnson, Photos submitted by ICC
Laura England’s heart is in education.
“I love going to school,” she says. England has been on both sides of the education equation, spending nearly 20 years as a high school and college English teacher. While doing that, she went back to school in her off time and earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing. England juggled both careers for a while and then transitioned to nursing full-time. She climbed the career ladder as a nurse, ultimately becoming the director of her local hospital’s Med Surg Unit. Then the pandemic hit in early 2020, and by default, her unit became the COVID unit. England says it was a small rural hospital without enough ventilators for the patients who needed them.
“Ethics committees were formed and decisions were having to be made and I just didn’t want to be part of that anymore,” says England. “I wanted to be the type of medical provider who was proactive, not reactive, and I truly wanted to help people feel better.”
On her daily drive to work, England passed a billboard advertising the massage therapy certification
Massage class at recently held at ICC
Instructor Stacey Barrett works with students during a recent class
program at Isothermal Community College’s Polk County campus. It inspired her to leave her nursing job.
“I walked in one day and put in my 30-day notice. I went home and told my husband I quit my job and was going to massage therapy school,” says England, chuckling about her husband’s reaction. “It was not as happy as mine was.”
England enrolled in Isothermal Community College’s massage therapy program in the
fall of 2020 and started classes the following January.
“Class size was small enough that we received individualized instruction as well as whole group instruction,” she says. “Everyone was very supportive.”
England graduated from ICC with a certificate in massage therapy in July 2021 and opened her own practice as a licensed massage therapist the following September. It’s called Stetera Massage Therapy Center
Liz Mills, on right, instructs students during a recent class
and it’s in Boiling Springs where she lives.
“I love the freedom of it. I love that I am my own boss, and I love being a massage therapist. I love helping people feel better,” says England.
England was one of 172 students who’ve graduated from ICC’s massage therapy program since it began in 2012. It’s one of only 18 massage therapy certificate programs offered by North Carolina’s 58 community colleges.
“We have an amazing diversity of students from all kinds of backgrounds,” says Liz Mills, who is an instructor and the program’s Education Director. “I’ve had students who’ve had master’s degrees and I’ve had students who’ve come straight out of high school. I’ve had students from 18 all the way up to 68 years old. It’s just amazing, and I love that diversity of age and background.”
Like many of those students, Mills had another career before getting into massage,
working in mental health and education before opening her own massage practice in 2009 in Ashe County called Full Moon Massage and Wellness. In 2019, she closed the business and moved to Tryon to help her aging parents. Mills says the increasing demands of caring for her parents and her own age limiting her ability to match the physical demands of being a full-time masseuse prompted her to look into teaching at ICC.
“I approached them, and they did
ICC, Polk County campus
Instructor Stacey Barrett and students
have that need, and it was just one of those serendipitous things that worked out perfectly,” she says.
Mills started teaching massage classes at ICC in December 2019, had to stop during the COVID shutdown a few months later, but resumed teaching in July 2020. The massage therapy certificate program is 660 hours of course work which exceeds the state requirement. In addition to weekdays, classes also meet on weeknights and weekends.
“For most of our
students, that is the preferred schedule because so many of them have families or also have other jobs, so they come in between 12 and 24 hours a week,” she says.
The course covers anatomy, physiology, and pathology to give students a good understanding of the human body and how it works and various massage techniques to cater to customers' needs. The course also covers basic business skills like accounting and marketing for students who may be interested in opening their own
practice.
“Many schools have different instructors for those different topics but our program has a single instructor covering all of those areas,” says Mills.
After 12 weeks in the course, when students have the foundational skills they need, they’re allowed to practice their techniques on real people from the community. ICC advertises that massages are available to the public one night a week and on Satur-
Instructor Stacey Barrett works with students during a recent class
days for $20 an hour.
“It gives the students an opportunity to not only serve their community but also to hone their skills with the public and we’ve had very great response from the public,” says Mills. “It’s an affordable way for them to experience massage.”
Mills says a certificate in massage therapy offers many opportunities.
“That’s one of the great things about massage therapy,” she says. “You can stay in a small practice of your own. You could work for a franchise, but what’s
really exciting is that massage is being more accepted in the health care field.”
Mills says graduates of ICC’s program can work everywhere from medical settings to resorts but most open their own practices.
That’s what Laura England did and she says her only regret was not doing it sooner.
“I love my office. I love my business. I love what I do. My clients are phenomenal. It’s fabulous,” England says.
Laura England, outside her Boiling Springs practice
Presto For Pesto
By Pebbles
Some of us are so beguiling that no one can refuse our requests. I am the perfect example, charmingly attractive and oh-so-pleasing to the eye. I have everyone here at the ranch wrapped around my little hoof. When I say jump, those who know and adore me say, “How high, Pebbles?”
So, it is no wonder that when I learned about a cute young pony requiring assistance at a livestock sale yard in the mountains of Tennessee, I instructed my mistress, Heather Freeman, to investigate the situation. And did I mention that this little pony from a distance could be my stunt double in appearance? We had to help this pint-sized equine out of this situation quickly.
Heather learned that a man had traded his son’s colt pony for a proven Coonhound with considerable hunting experience. The pony was then sold to a livestock buyer. Before being traded for the hound, this fleasized equine had been ridden by children. I must clarify here that this pony was far
Valerie and Heather grooming Pesto
too young to support the extra weight of a rider. Even a young rider at this age was not good for the pony’s back and joints. However, this did prove that the pony was gentle enough to endure kids clambering on for a ride around the yard. The handsome little steed was said
to be about age two and looked toylike with a plush chocolate palomino coat and a lush white mane and tail. This is my exact color, although I am taller and more regally mature than this tiny colt.
Heather felt sure someone would purchase the cute pony
immediately, but that was not the case. Days ticked by, and he was still waiting in the cold mountains of Tennessee. I am sure he was fearful of what might happen to him next. The pony had only been in one home, and being traded for a dog meant he left his mother
for the first time.
April is Heather’s birthday month. Could there be a better present than another pony that looks so much like me? I am relentless when it comes to getting my way. I insisted we bring this pony to the ranch as soon as possible.
Heather obliged. She called the livestock dealer and bought the pony. Getting him to us quickly required securing a new Coggins test and a health certificate to travel out of state.
A transporter was contacted in Tennessee. Then, presto, down the mountain came the tiny
pony to join our family. This took place within a few days, and we were delighted with how easily the arrangements were finalized to welcome him. The enormous six-horse trailer pulled into our driveway at 8:30 a.m. on Monday. Then out popped our passenger on
Sedona, Pesto, Heather, Dutch the Anatolian, Aussies Sable, Madison, Buster and barn cat Tut all joining in for the photo.
Pesto, Heather, Dutch the Anatolian, Aussies Sable, and Madison
this load, this special pony.
Wide-eyed in wonder, his fluffy, downy soft mane blew in the breeze as he leaped off the trailer to meet Terra firm. We knew in an instant that the name Pesto suited him. Heather loves to make homemade pesto from our fresh basil in the garden. Everything tastes better with a dab of fresh pesto, and it is so good for one’s health.
Our farm dogs, Frenchie, Buster, Madison, Sable, and Dutch, were there to greet him. Dutch, the Anatolian, was taller by at least two
hands than Pesto. Heather led Pesto to a private small paddock we had set up for his arrival. She showed him the pile of fresh hay and the water tank before unclipping the lead rope. Pesto took a long drink of water. Then he circled the enclosure at a gallop, kicking up his heels. He was delighted to be out of the trailer and no longer alone. He had a large audience of onlookers here. Miniature donkeys Cinnamon, Belle, and Liberty watched him cavorting in amusement while munching on their breakfast hay.
They are also larger than tiny Pesto. Sedona and I watched his playful antics from our pasture across the drive. Next, Pesto began calling out to his spectators, hoping for an assuring response. It was clear to me he was asking to know about his mother. Was she here? “Have you seen my mother?” he asked repeatedly. All the mares living here who are more sympathetic after raising their foals responded to him. They immediately nickered back comforting responses, sympathizing that he was feeling
very much alone. Pesto was also unsure of where he had landed. Now, he also knew his mother was not here on this ranch.
The first day witha us was devoted to rest for Pesto so he could adjust to his surroundings.
On the second day, Heather took him out to enjoy a larger grassy pasture. He had to remain solo for his safety. However, he could see the playful weanlings Zippy and Gus without direct contact with them. Being with them is
too risky as these two colts tower over him in size. Young horses raised in our HERD rescue, Clayton and Polaris, are also 60 feet away from him in their pasture. They, too, are curious about the newcomer. We must keep Pesto
Pesto being ridden at the livestock yard by kids
out of harm’s way while we learn more about him. After a few hours of grazing, Pesto entered the barn for a grooming session. His ultra-soft mane, tail, and body were covered in large cockleburs. He must have collected these in Tennessee. It took two hours to remove them, much to his dismay. The next immediate matter was Pesto’s feet. The long toes on all four feet resembled elf shoes. Our gentle and patient farrier, Johnny Hunter, worked us into his busy schedule. The transformation of Pesto’s feet was immediate. He moved much more comfortably after his trim.
Who will be Pesto’s new pasture mate is still unclear. This arrangement will surely unfold naturally once he has been gelded and has recovered from the ordeal. It was magical how everything fell into place so quickly to help this darling pony colt. In short, it was presto for Pesto to join our family.
Pesto grabbing a bite of hay in his new home
Pesto on his freedom ride to North Carolina.
QUICK BITES
Enjoy a bite of a lemony treat
Adjusting diet is a necessity for someone with food allergies, intolerances or a condition like irritable bowel syndrome. Although an individual may understand the need to avoid certain foods, it can be difficult to pass up on foods when so many people around you are enjoying them, especially when they are tasty desserts.
Fortunately for lemon bar lovers, this recipe for Lemon Bars from The Complete IBS Diet Plan (Rockridge Press) by Amanda Foote, RD, offers a sweet and sour offering with delicious shortbread crust that should not cause any digestive distress for IBS sufferers.
Lemon Bars
Makes 12 bars
For the crust
1 cup (1 stick) very cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces, plus more for greasing the pan
13 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
To make the crust:
2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon sea salt
4 tablespoons very cold coconut oil, cut into pieces
For the filling
4 large eggs
11 cups sugar
1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter.
3 tablespoons gluten-free allpurose flour
Grated zest of 2 lemons
2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup unsweetened plain rice milk
Pinch sea salt
2. In a blender, combine the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt and pulse 10 times in 1-second bursts.
3. Add the butter and coconut oil. Pulse 4 to 5 times more, in 1-second bursts, until the mixture resembles sand.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press the crust into the bottom and slightly up on the sides.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until just brown.
To make the filling:
6. While the crust bakes, in a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and flour. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, rice milk, and salt. Pour the mixture into the warm crust.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes until the filling is set.
8. Cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Refrigerate before cutting into bars and serving.
Celebrate the versatility of soy
Soyfoods are versatile ingredients in everyday cooking. Soyfoods are enjoyed by those who follow vegetarian and vegan diets, as soy is an excellent non-animal protein source. The different consistencies and textures of soyfoods mean they can replace other ingredients with ease. They also readily take on the flavors of other ingredients.
Many Asian-inspired meals rely on soyfoods, including this dish for Tofu Cauliflower Fried Rice from Vegan Cooking for Beginners (Publications International, Ltd.) by the PIL editors.
Tofu Cauliflower Fried Rice
Makes 4 servings
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger or ginger paste, divided
2 teaspoons dark sesame oil
1 teaspoon packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 package (14 to 16 ounces) firm tofu, drained
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1 yellow or sweet onion, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
12 cup frozen peas
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 package (12 ounces) frozen cauliflower rice
1 green onion, thinly sliced juice
13 cup unsweetened plain rice milk
Pinch sea salt
1. Whisk soy sauce, 1 tablespoon ginger, sesame oil, brown sugar, and vinegar in small bowl. Place tofu in quart-size resealable food storage bag. Pour marinade over tofu. Seal bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Turn to coat tofu with marinade. Refrigerate 3 hours or overnight.
2. Drain tofu, reserving marinade. Cut tofu into 1-inch cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in large skillet over high heat. Add tofu, stir-fry 3 to 5 minutes or until edges are browned. Transfer to bowl.
3. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in same skillet. Add yellow onion and carrot; stir-fry 2 minutes or until softened. Add peas, garlic and remaining 1 teaspoon ginger; cook 2 minutes or until peas are hot. Add frozen cauliflower rice and 1Ú4 cup reserved marinade; stir-fry 5 minutes or until heated through. Return tofu to skillet; stir-fry until heated through. Top with green onion.
Spice up your Easter Sunday dinner
Easter is a springtime religious holiday during which faithful Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christ is often referred to as the Lamb of God, many Easter celebrations feature lamb on the menu as a reflection on Christs sacrifice. There are many ways to prepare lamb, but those who want to incorporate new flavors into their Easter meal can embrace some bold and flavorful offerings from Asia. Indian Lamb Curry from Cooking Light Dinners Ready! (Oxmoor House) from the editors of Cooking Light, is a hearty and delicious way to feed Easter guests.
Indian Lamb Curry
8 Servings
2 pounds boneless leg of lamb, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups finely chopped white onion
2 tablespoons grated peeled fresh ginger
2 tablespoons mustard seeds
2 teaspoons garam masala
2 teaspoons ground cumin
12 teaspoon salt
14 teaspoon ground red pepper
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups hot cooked basmati rice
12 cup plain fat-free yogurt
12 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add lamb; saute 5 minutes or until browned. Remove lamb from pan; place in a 4-quart electric slow cooker.
2. Drain tomatoes, reserving juice. Place flour in a small bowl; gradually add tomato juice, stirring with a whisk until smooth. Stir tomatoes, tomato juice mixture, onion, and next seven ingredients into lamb. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until lamb is tender. Serve lamb curry over rice; top with yogurt, and sprinkle with cilantro.
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