Blount and Beyond February 2025
Publisher/Editors — Linda Kay and Kenneth Baker Sr
Featured Photographers: — Kenneth E. Baker Jr, and Martha Sissum Gahagan
Featured Religious Writer — Les Burnette
Down Home with Gail — Patricia Gail Hatcher
Quilts and Ponderings = Arlene Foster
Here at the House — Emily Effler
Blount and Beyond Poet-in-Residence — Stanley Turnmire
God Art — Patricia Davis Roberts
The Guthrie I Remember — Steve Haley
Sean of the South — Sean Dietrich
All Things Appalachian — Tim Carmichael
Contributing Writers: Stephanie Edwards, Linda Hatcher, Dana Lund
All articles are published verbatim.
Dear Readers,
I feel blessed to have you in my life. You are a treasure to me and knowing you, either in person or online, makes me happy. I wish I could meet all our readers and writers in person. Thank you so much for being a friend and a reader, I could not do this magazine without each and every one of you. I just wanted to let you know how much you mean to me.
February is the month of love. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your spouse, your parents, your children, your grandchildren, and your friends. You can enjoy a cozy, love-filled day together! Whether it is enjoying a special meal, watching a movie, or doing a fun activity together, spending time with family and friends is a perfect way to share love.
How are you going to celebrate Valentine’s Day? If you are single, married, in a relationship, have children or plan to spend the day with friends here are a few suggestions to make the day special without breaking the bank.
You may plan to have dinner and a movie at home. It will be more peaceful and less expensive. You might even want to get dressed up for dinner.
Go for a Drive, weather permitting. Enjoy nature and have a picnic. When you return home play board games. Valentine’s Day does not need to be expensive.
In February we celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th focused on romantic love and then many celebrate the season of Lent, focused on returning to the embrace of God’s love through repentance and sacrifice. I realize our readers and writers come from a wide variety of faith backgrounds or, no faith background, being a Southern Baptist I only remember Lent as something my friends that went to another church told me about. So, if you celebrate Lent remember Lent invites us to intentionally improve our relationship with God and neighbor by practicing spiritual disciplines that strengthen our resolve to “seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Lent is not simply giving up something. The forty days of Lent remind us of the forty days that Jesus spent in the desert before beginning his public ministry. Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent.
With Joy on this Journey as publisher of Blount and Beyond I want to wish you a happy Valentine’s Day and if your faith celebrates Lent I pray it strengthens your faith.
Sincerely
Linda Kay
61st edition of Blount and Beyond.
Mike McKinsey is at Peery’s Mill Dam. January 23, 2025 · I can probably count on one hand how many times I have seen this in my lifetime! Frozen all the way across!
His Loving-Kindness is Forever
“The Lord will work out His plans for your life — for Your loving-kindness, Lord, continues forever.”
(Psalm 138:8 TLB, personalized)
The presents are unwrapped, many have put their decorations away, the Christmas season may have come and gone, but the Lord’s loving-kindness continues forever. He won’t be boxed up and put away. He’s alive and well and waiting for you to activate Him in your life. You, or people you know and love, are going to need Him to be delivered from the grip of sin, rescued from the depths of depression, discouragement, and hopelessness, or not to lose their focus on Him when blessed with health and prosperity.
Now, after all the frenzied shopping, parties, and family gatherings, sit back and take a minute to rest and recuperate. Let Jesus resupply and rejuvenate you. Let Him have all your worries and concerns. All your worry isn’t going to change anything or anybody anyway. The Lord is going to work out His plans for your life, sometimes in spite of your attempts to direct Him. He has amazing plans for you.
Love you,
les
Angels in the Outfield — Sean Dietrich Jan 4
Someone emailed me and said I was an idiot. Which is true, but not for the reasons they cited.
“How can you believe in angels and still consider yourself a smart person?” the letter began.
Oh, I haven’t always believed in angels. And truthfully, I wish I didn’t believe. It would be easier.
It all started in third grade. My teacher, Mrs. Shield, told a story of her own.
She was a little girl. She fell through a second-story window. She was bruised and battered. The paramedics said she would die.
But a man came to her. A man who only she could see. He said she would be in the hospital for a while, but she would be all right, if she could just hold on. She eventually taught third grade.
Yes, Mrs. Shield was as crazy as a sprayed roach. But I believed her. And I still do.
There is another guy I know. He talks about being in the hospital, after an accident. The doctors said he was going to die, too. He was in his bed in a coma.
A nurse came into his room. She was a large woman with ebony skin and white scrubs. She leaned over his bed, held him tightly, and sang to him. She sang, “God is going to deliver you.”
When he woke up, nobody believed him. It was a hallucination, they said. He asked medical staffers who the woman was. They said no employees fit her description.
I know a guy from Alaska. He wrote to me and said that his son suffered brain stem damage after a hunting accident. The kid was going to die. No doubt about it.
When his son was unconscious, a strange woman found him and kissed his face and said he would not die, for he still had work to do on earth.
Today, that kid is 46 years old and he works as a volunteer with a charity aiding local Alaskan natives.
I once met a woman who told me she was going to visit her son’s remains at a military base, after a horrific accident.
The night the woman arrived to pay her respects, there was a guard at the main gate checking IDs. The guard was her son.
The guard came to the lady’s window and the woman was already crying.
The guard said, “Mom, I want you to know that I’m okay where I am. Don’t worry about me. I’ll give you a sign and let you know I’m okay.”
In a flash of light, the guard gate disappeared, and so did the son. In place of the son was a guard, saying, “Ma’am, are you okay?”
The guard waved her on. The woman was driving through the weaving roads at night. She stopped when she saw something lying in the middle of the road.
She threw the car in Park. She trotted in front of her high beams, and found a hockey stick lying in the center of the road. Her son was an avid hockey player.
It can’t be a coincidence, can it?
I say this because since beginning this column, I have received angel stories from every state in the Union. Stories also from Canada, China, Russia, Haiti, and Guam. Stories of near-death experiences, unlikely rescues, heroic feats, and impossible deliverances. And, I’m sorry, I just don’t think they’re all liars.
So, yeah, this idiot believes in angels.
Questions: SeanDietrich@gmail.com
Visit the Sean of the South Website
Paper Roses
The High School that I attended was named Todd County Central High School. Todd Central was located in Elkton, KY about 13 miles from my hometown of Guthrie, KY. Each of the towns in Todd County had an elementary school for grades 1–8. The towns with the elementary schools were Trenton, Clifty, Sharon Grove, Elkton, and Guthrie. Once the students graduated from the eighth grade, we all would go to High School at Todd Central. It was the only comprehensive high school for the county.
I was a member of the class of 1977. While attending TCCHS I made friends with people my age from all over our small county. Two of those friends talked me into helping them pull a prank on one of our teachers who also served as the girls’ basketball coach. Although looking back the prank was as much on me as the Coach.
Leigh Ware was a former Trenton Dragon and our star point guard on the girls’ basketball team. She was fast friends with Gina Miller who was a former Elkton Elk. Gina was the center on the girls’ team. Gina was a good player in her own right. Coach Jerri Long was the girls’ basketball coach as well as their health and P.E. Teacher.
Those are the principal participants in this mildly funny story. On Valentine’s Day of our Senior year, the cheerleaders gave their sponsor, Ms. Carolyn Wells, our English teacher, a dozen roses. The cheerleaders had the roses delivered by a local florist. Leigh and Gina felt some remorse and embarrassment that they hadn’t done anything for Coach Long.
Gina and Leigh put their heads together and came up with a plan to remedy this predicament. For their plan to work they would need to convince me to participate. Gina and Leigh decided that they too would give their coach flowers for this special day. The trouble was that they had no money and were running out of time to order any from the florist. The young ladies quickly began to draw roses on a quarter sheet of poster board. After the roses were drafted they then began to color them red with a crayon. ‘Paper Roses’ was a popular song during this time so the gift was a perfect idea. Lastly, they needed a delivery person, this is where I entered the picture.
Gina’s mom was the manager of our school cafeteria so she had access to white coats similar to a Doctor’s coat. They convinced Mrs. Miller to allow them to use a coat and a hairnet, that had a white bill, for me to wear for the floral delivery. They handmade a name card to go over my left pocket and a made-up floral business to go over my right pocket. We were in Mrs. Howard’s math class during all the planning and construction of this project. Mrs. Howard’s class just happened to be across the hallway from Coach Long’s room.
Before the end of Math class, Mrs. Howard allowed us to make our staged floral delivery. Coach Long’s mouth nearly hit the floor when I made my mock delivery for the girls’ basketball team. Once the shock was over they all had a good laugh.
All Things Appalachian
February in the Smokies: A Quiet Bridge to Spring
After the festive lights dim and the decorations are packed away, the mountains of Tennessee settle into a stillness that marks the passing of the year. chill wraps the landscape in frost, and the days are short and gray. But by February, there’s a sense that change is stirring. It’s still cold, but the longer evenings and the slightest increase in January’s daylight bring a feeling of anticipation.
February may not have the promise of fresh blooms yet, but it’s a month that whispers of the coming spring. The air still bites, but it’s different now, less harsh, almost like it’s preparing for warmer days. The mountains, always a bit mysterious and awe-inspiring, take on a different charm during this transition. With their bare branches and crisp mornings, the world here seems to hold its breath.
Even on the coldest days, the people who live in these hills know that soon enough, the sun will climb higher, and the earth will begin to stir. So, they bundle up, head out, and keep moving through the cold — whether they’re on a quiet hike, exploring a hidden waterfall, or just strolling through small towns that feel frozen in time. There’s a rhythm to the days, quiet patience, as if everyone is waiting for the thaw, knowing it’s just around the corner.
The mountains take on a soft kind of beauty in February. The thick fogs roll over the ridges in the early morning, and by afternoon, they’re often replaced with clear blue skies. Every now and then, a light dusting of snow will coat the earth, and the mountains look like a winter wonderland, still and peaceful. The quiet is both calming and invigorating, urging people to embrace the outdoors before the world explodes into the rush of spring.
For those lucky enough to visit the Smokies in February, the crowds are thinner, and the trails feel like private sanctuaries. You’ll find the majestic trees bare, but their stately forms still stand tall against the skyline. Streams and rivers are icy and reflective, showing off their winter beauty in a way that’s not seen when surrounded by the thick greens of summer. It’s the kind of beauty that makes you pause and take a breath.
As February stretches on, the anticipation builds. The daffodils, crocuses, and wildflowers will soon begin to push through the soil, and the hills will be green once more. The wildlife that has been holed up in the quiet winter months will stir from their dens, and the warm, heady days of spring will find their way back to the mountain air.
But for now, February is about quiet strength — holding on until the warmth of spring arrives. It’s about the beauty of things unseen, the soft transitions, and the knowledge that even in the cold, life is moving, growing, and preparing for what comes next. And in the mountains of Tennessee, this month is the perfect reminder that change can be slow, but it’s always coming.
- Tim Carmichael
Heroine in the American Revolution — Margaret Corbin
By Linda Kay Baker
When we think of the American Revolution George Washington is usually the first name to come to mind. Washington, Alexander Hamilton, John Adams are generally thought of as the Founding Fathers. They may have been the Founding Fathers but we also had many women who fought in their own ways and most of them were never acknowledged for their part in the making of America.
Women played a major part of conflicts in the United States from the American Revolution to the Civil War. They were found in the background ready to help when needed. Women performed many duties, they served as nurses, scouts, and spies on the battlefields and those left at home were both mother and father to their families, they took care of the home front from taking care of the family to farming the land and many other jobs. Some women disguised themselves as men and fought in battles. Margaret Corbin was the first woman to receive a military pension from the American government for her part in the Revolutionary War.
Toward the end of 1776, the war was raging. At the Battle of Fort Washington, Margaret Corbin dressed in men’s clothing and joined her husband in battle. Corbin’s husband died in battle and she took her husband’s place loading and firing the cannon. During the battle Corbin was hit in her left side, the injury left her arm unusable for the rest of her life. In 1779 the Continental Congress awarded her a pension for life. They also gave her a set of clothes to replace those that were damaged by her injuries.
Information from: https://www.grunge.com/410260/lesser-known-heroines-of-the-american-revolution/
Trivia — American Revolution
• Georgia did not send delegates to the first Continental Congress. Distance to Philadelphia was an issue and Georgian political leaders were also busy with a hostile border war against Native American Creeks.
• George Washington declined to draw a salary for his work as commander in chief of the army. He instead requested that Congress only reimburse his expenses. In the eight years of the Revolutionary War, however, Washington claimed almost $450,000 — the equivalent of $4 million today. When Washington was elected president, he made the same offer of drawing expenses rather than salary. This time it was declined, however, and the president was given a regular salary.
• George Washington did not believe America’s 1781 victory at Yorktown would end the war. He expected the British to regroup and launch yet another campaign.
• American naval hero John Paul Jones was also embroiled in a post-revolution sex scandal. In 1789, Jones was arrested in Russia, after being accused of raping a 12-year-old girl. Jones was later released after it was revealed that the girl was a prostitute and had been sleeping with Jones consensually; the allegation of rape was a political set-up.
• Delegates to the Philadelphia convention in 1787 did not scrimp on their food or entertainment. At their final official gathering, the group consumed more than 160 bottles of alcohol, including beer, wine, cider and port.
Looking Back — Hillbilly Homecoming
by Linda Kay Baker
In the early 1950s the business community in Maryville, Tennessee was looking for a way to promote tourism in the county, their goal was to raise funds to build a civic center and auditorium. In 1953 it was decided to hold a festival celebrating the life and lore of past settlers. It was decided the festival would be called “Hillbilly Homecoming” and would be a week-long affair. They envisioned top-name country music stars performing nightly. Local crafters would also be included.
The committee thought it would be wonderful to pick up their special guests at the airport in an “old” car. Inquiries were made across the county trying to find a workable “old” vehicle, they soon learned an old car was stored in a barn at Coulter’s Florist, a family-owned local business. The committee contacted brothers Kenneth and Charles Coulter about the car and if it might be possible to use the car as part of the Hillbilly Homecoming.
The car was a 1916 Ford Model T touring car and had been purchased new by the two brothers’ Uncle Newt. It had not been cranked since 1946 so there was no way to know if it was still drivable. The brothers agreed to get the old car in running order and let the committee use it to transport the guests from the airport to the festival. Some of the guests were Roy Acuff and Pee Wee King.
The 1953 Hillbilly Homecoming was a huge success, with more than 3,000 spectators, one of those spectators included me but I was just one year old so I do not remember it. It was such a success it was made an annual event. The following year the Coulter’s car was requested and used again as the official guest transporter for the second Hillbilly Homecoming. The car was given a police escort through downtown and they cheered it on.
The car with a police escort was such a big hit plans were made to add a parade with floats, bands and other antique cars the following year. In 1955 Charles and Kenneth Coulter again offered their car for the festival. By that time they had completed extensive work restoring the 1916 Ford Model T touring car. The brothers had purchased and restored a 1927 T roadster for the parade. A. L. Christenberry. Bud Campbell and C. B. Neubert all agreed to participate in the parade with their old cars. The cars in the parade were such a success that locals began searching for old cars on their own.
In 1956 people from all over East Tennessee began contacting the Coulter brothers, wanting to be included in the Hillbilly Homecoming parade and festivities. Charles and Kenneth purchased several more old vehicles. The Coulters’ “Ford Haven,” as it was called by locals, had a total of nine cars by 1956. In 1956 the Coulter brothers used all their vehicles in the parade. Many other cars from the area were in that year’s parade for a total of 39 antique cars. Antique cars were a part of the Hillbilly Homecoming until the festival ended in 1967.
Cherokee Legends
Shawnee Brave and The Horned Snake
As retold by Linda Baker
During a conflict long ago, a Shawnee warrior was captured by the Cherokee tribe. Instead of being tortured for information, the warrior proposed a daring deal to the Cherokee: he would earn his freedom if he could find and kill a dangerous creature known as the two-horned snake. These snakes were legendary for their deadly nature and their mystical powers, and they were thought to reside in the remote Tennessee Mountains.
The warrior embarked on an difficult journey, searching the mountains for many days. His quest led him to the Great Smoky Mountains, where he finally encountered a two-horned snake. The snake was no ordinary reptile; it was called the Uktena, a powerful and magical creature with a shining diamond called the Utunsuti embedded in its forehead. This diamond was incredibly rare and hard to obtain, making the task even more perilous.
The Uktena had two horns on its head and was known to attract people towards it with its mesmerizing allure, making escape nearly impossible. Only the most skilled medicine men or hunters had the expertise to kill such a creature. The Shawnee warrior had to shoot an arrow directly into the seventh stripe on the Uktena’s skin to ensure its defeat.
In preparation for the battle, the warrior created a large circle with pinecones and set them ablaze. When the snake approached, intending to use its magic to draw him in, the warrior defiantly shouted, “Freedom or death!” With precise aim, he shot his arrow through the seventh stripe on the Uktena’s skin. Immediately, he leapt into the ring of fire he had made with the pinecones, which protected him from the snake’s venomous attack.
Impressed by the warrior’s bravery and skill, the Cherokee honored their promise and granted him his freedom. Four days later, a group of Cherokee braves visited the site where the warrior had slain the snake. They gathered pieces of the snake’s bones and skin to create sacred bundles, which they believed would bring good fortune to their tribe.
At the same location, a small lake with black water had formed. The Cherokee women found that this black water was perfect for dyeing twigs used in their intricate basket making. The legend of the Shawnee warrior and the two-horned snake became an important part of Cherokee folklore, symbolizing courage, resourcefulness, and the importance of keeping one’s word.
Appalachia, A Way of Life
Appalachian traditions are really important to the culture of the region. This article will talk about some of the traditions that have been handed down through many generations. These traditions include the customs, beliefs, and practices that people in the Appalachian region of the United States have followed for a long time. This includes things like food, crafts, music, and stories.
The beliefs of the people in Appalachia are shaped by their history and the challenges they have faced. Some of their main beliefs include being humble, having strong family ties, being self-sufficient, resourceful, and hospitable.
In Appalachian culture, people value working together and helping each other. Family and community are very important, and churches often provide services and bring people together.
The Appalachian region is known for its various landscapes, like long ridges, steep slopes, deep valleys, and rich biodiversity with many different plants and animals. It also has a strong cultural heritage that includes traditions, music, and folklore.
People in Appalachia eat traditional foods influenced by the region’s history and resources. Some popular foods include peanut brittle, sweet potato pie, pork chops, biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, collard greens, homemade preserves, and apple butter.
Appalachians speak a unique type of English known as Appalachian English. It has its own special accent, words, and ways of pronouncing things that have developed over a long time. Appalachia is unique because of its distinct cultural heritage, rich natural resources, and rugged landscapes. The region’s history, geography, and isolation have shaped its traditions, music, dialect, and way of life.
Traditional Appalachian crafts include spinning, weaving, dyeing, basketry, quilting, pottery, woodcarving, blacksmithing, and making handmade musical instruments used in country music.
According to folklore, if you hear your name being called in the Appalachian Mountains, you should not look or investigate. It is believed to be a sign of danger or a supernatural presence, so it is advised to run or leave the area.
Appalachian traditions include unique dances like square dancing, where people dance in groups and follow a caller who tells them what moves to make. Folk music, played on instruments like banjos and fiddles, is also a big part of their culture.
Blount County Tennessee History
Maryville During the Civil War
By Linda Kay Baker
Before the Civil War, the people of Blount County, where Maryville is located, were mostly against slavery. In 1822, a group including Quakers formed an anti-slavery society to oppose the practice. Many local preachers also took a stand against slavery from their pulpits. When the time came in 1861 for the county to vote on whether to secede from the Union and join the Confederacy, the majority chose to stay with the Union, with 1,766 votes against 414 votes. However the state overall voted to secede.
The Civil War reached Maryville in August 1864. Confederate General Joseph Wheeler led a group of soldiers in an attack on Union forces stationed at the courthouse. Rather than engage in direct combat, the Confederate soldiers set the courthouse on fire to force the Union soldiers to abandon it. Unfortunately, the fire spread uncontrollably, destroying many homes and businesses, although the courthouse itself survived. This destruction particularly affected those who supported the Confederacy, causing sadness among Confederate soldiers like William Sloan.
During this attack, the courthouse served as the Union headquarters under Lieutenant James M. Dorton. Crucial county records were relocated to James Toole’s store on Main Street. When the fire reached the store, a courageous former slave named Polly Toole entered the burning building and successfully saved the records. Today, a statue of Polly Toole stands at the courthouse, commemorating her bravery.
Following the war, Maryville began to rebuild. The Freedmen’s Bureau played a significant role by funding the construction of Anderson Hall at Maryville College, which was crucial for the town’s recovery and education. A historical marker detailing this period can be found along the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway in Bicentennial Greenbelt Park.
Additionally, Maryville faced many challenges during the Reconstruction era, such as rebuilding its economy and infrastructure. The town’s resilience was remarkable, as community members worked together to restore their homes and businesses. The influence of the anti-slavery movement persisted, shaping the town’s progressive values in the years to come. Maryville College also became a beacon of education and progress, promoting values of equality and community service that continue to this day.
Day Trip in Tennessee
Museum of Appalachia
East Tennessee is full of awesome activities and attractions that are perfect for everyone in the family. Whether you love history, exploring nature, or just want to find a peaceful spot to relax, East Tennessee has something special for you.
One popular place to visit is the Museum of Appalachia in Clinton. This museum shows how people used to live in the Appalachian Mountains long ago. It has over 30 historic buildings, like homes, barns, and a schoolhouse, all set up to look just like they did in the past.
What makes this museum even more interesting is that you don’t just look at old buildings. You can actually experience what life was like for early settlers through various exhibits and live demonstrations. You might see traditional crafts being made or hear real Appalachian music performances.
If you get hungry during your visit, there’s a restaurant right there where you can grab a tasty meal. And if you want to extend your trip, you can stay overnight at the Appalachian Ridge Campground next to the museum. The campground has modern restrooms, campsite picnic tables and fire pits, and a path that leads straight to the museum entrance.
Throughout the year, the museum also hosts special events and festivals that celebrate Appalachian culture and history. These events give you even more chances to learn about the region’s heritage and enjoy live music, crafts, and food.
Another great spot to visit in East Tennessee is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is perfect for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature. You can see beautiful waterfalls, wildlife, and stunning mountain views. The park also has many trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, East Tennessee promises a memorable experience with its wide range of attractions and activities. The Volunteer State truly has something for every type of traveler.
Sugar-Fried Pecans
David and Donald Johnson are twin brothers from Macon, Georgia. They started a business making sugar-fried pecans. It all began when they gave homemade pecans as gifts to their children’s teachers. The teachers loved the pecans so much that they asked for more. Word spread about the tasty treats, and soon, the brothers decided to turn their hobby into a business. They use their mom’s recipe and pecans from the orchard their dad bought in the 1970s.
The brothers sell their pecans at markets and fairs. They win over people who don’t usually like pecans. David says they are very good at giving out samples and getting people to try them. Today, they have about three thousand pecan trees and still use the same method to make their pecans: dampen, sugar, fry, lightly salt, and enjoy. You can buy their sugar-fried pecans at ggfieldshop.com.
“We’re very aggressive sample givers,” David says. They use skills from their years as tractor salesmen. “We talk to everybody who walks by.” Most people give in and try the pecans. They discover pecans with a perfect balance of savory and sweet and a bright crispiness. Today the brothers take care of about three thousand pecan trees. They still follow the same process with their freshly harvested crop: dampen, sugar, fry, lightly salt — and enjoy.
In addition to markets and fairs, the Johnson brothers have expanded their business by offering their pecans through online sales, catering events, and even partnering with local stores. They have also started a small family-run store in Macon where customers can buy fresh pecans and other homemade treats. The brothers take great pride in their family business and are deeply involved in every aspect, from harvesting to packaging. They continue to maintain the quality and authenticity of their mother’s recipe, ensuring that every batch of pecans is made with love and care.
Information from: ggfieldshop.com.
Snow at the Beach — Judy Whitehead Parris — january 22, 2025, tracks in the snow, on the sand! How often do you see people building a snowman on the beach with several dolphins playing in the background‽ …Panama City Beach, Florida
Valentine’s Day in the Appalachian Mountains
Valentine’s Day, observed on February 14th, celebrated love and friendship. This holiday originated from the Roman festival of Lupercalia, an ancient pagan fertility celebration. Pope Gelasius declared a Christian martyr as the patron saint of the holiday. Valentine’s Day became popular in Great Britain around the 17th century and later spread to other countries.
The tradition of exchanging hand-made cards and tokens of affection began during this period. By the 18th century, gift-giving and exchanging sentimental notes had become common. The first commercially printed Valentine’s Day cards appeared in the 19th century.
In the United States, Valentine’s Day started gaining popularity in the early 19th century. Esther Howland, known as the “Mother of the American Valentine,” began mass-producing valentines in the 1840s, creating elaborate and ornate cards that became widely popular.
Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide, with various customs and traditions unique to different cultures. In addition to exchanging cards and gifts, many people also enjoy romantic dinners, special outings, and other expressions of love and appreciation. Despite its ancient origins and evolution over the centuries, Valentine’s Day continues to be a cherished occasion for celebrating love and connection.
Valentine’s Day in the Appalachian Mountains is a time of warmth and community. People celebrate with long-held traditions that show the region’s rich culture. Families often start the day by making homemade treats, like heart-shaped biscuits and sweet preserves, using old family recipes.
Handmade gifts are very important. Many people create special presents, such as carved wooden items or hand-stitched quilts, to show their love. These gifts are valued for their personal touch and the effort put into making them.
Community gatherings are a big part of Valentine’s Day in Appalachia. Churches and community centers host events where people can share a meal, enjoy live music, and dance. These events bring neighbors together to celebrate love and friendship.
Storytelling is another popular tradition. Elders share tales of romance and folklore that have been part of Appalachian culture for many years. These stories, often funny and wise, add a special touch to the celebrations, linking the past with the present.
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All in all, Valentine’s Day in the Appalachian Mountains is a mix of heartfelt traditions, community spirit, and the strong bond of love that brings people closer together.
Simple Homemade Chili — By Linda Kay Baker
Here is a simple and delicious recipe for homemade chili that serves about 4 people. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a 2-quart saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns brown, which takes about 7 to 10 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef and cook until the onion becomes see-through, about 5 minutes. Drain any extra fat.
4. Stir in the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your chili!
Feel free to add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Strange and Unusual Laws across the U.S.
In Alabama it is illegal to drive blindfolded. This law is not only strange, but it makes you wonder why it was ever on the books, could it be someone was caught driving blindfolded in Alabama!
It is against the law in Louisiana to send anyone an unsolicited pizza.
In North Carolina bingo sessions are limited to five hours per session and residents are only allowed a maximum of two bingo sessions a week. This, according to the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, ensures fairness and lessens the risk of developing a gambling addiction.
In Missouri it is against the law to take your bear for a drive uncaged in your vehicle. This is to ensure public safety and better animal welfare.
To be fair to everyone, elephant riders must pay when they park their elephant at a parking meter in Florida. This is to ensure all “vehicle types” are treated equally under the law.
In North Dakota it is illegal for bar owners to serve beer and pretzels together.
In Oklahoma it is illegal to make an “ugly face” at a dog. This rule was put in place to reduce animal harassment, improve pet safety, and maintain public order. Making an ugly face could end up with you having to pay a big ugly fine.
In Illinois it is against the law to give a dog a lit cigar to dogs to prevent animal abuse, I have never seen a dog smoke but when our children were teenagers our dog, Wilbur, would eat every cigar and cigarette he could find.
In Cleveland, Ohio it is against the law for women to wear patent leather shoes and a skirt at the same time.
In Florida it is illegal for unmarried women to parachute on Sundays. Sunday parachuting is only permitted for women accompanied by a husband.
The Guthrie I Remember — “Turn it This Way to Tighten and This Way to Loosen” Jan 18
Recently some of my extended cousins auctioned off their parents’ household goods. As the public looked at what they thought were dishes, I saw reminders of family gatherings filled with fun and laughter. The guns that lined a table held memories of men sitting under shade trees reminiscing of a time they hunted for food, not wall trophies. It seems to be the Wix family tradition to auction off their possessions. It reminded me of my grandparents’ auction. On the day of their big sale of a few worldly goods, there were two items I was going to try and buy.
Their farm was small, only about 35 acres. It was very hilly and rocky. The soil was mostly red clay. The farm wasn’t the main attraction though. It was the occupants. The owners were my grandparents, Dennis and Ruthie (Ruth) Mae Ledford Wix. There was ALWAYS something to do on “my place,” as Daddy Wix called the farm.
The tasks were varied and many for such a small operation. There was hoeing to be done in the omnipresent garden. In the cool of the evening, while weeding, we listened to the chimes and hymns played from Red River Baptist’s carillon as we toiled. Here Daddy Wix taught me to whistle like a Bob White. I was overjoyed when Bob White answered me back. He also showed me how to cup my hands so I could make a train whistle sound when I blew in them.
There was also tending his small herd of cows, baling of hay, or working in the occasional tobacco crop he might plant. If all these failed to consume our waking hours, there was the chicken house that held 15,000 layers.
There was an infinitesimal number of tasks to be done at the chicken house. The chicken cages were constructed in a manner so the chains that carried feed to the hens moved parallel to the walkway in a circle. The feed chains were a flawed design evident even to my young mind. The chain was too stiff to travel in a circle. Invariably, breaks would occur with the links. This is where the mementos came in.
When the feed chains broke, Daddy Wix would send me to fetch his pry bar and toolbox. His pry bar was one of his most used tools. It also doubled for a tamping bar when we were fencing. It was very heavy. When I was a young fellow, I had to half drag/ half carry it to him. Years later I learned that the pry bar was the front axle on a Model T that he had shortened. One end was tapered like a chisel. I never cease to be amazed at the resourcefulness of small farmers.
Daddy Wix had a screwdriver that seemed as long as a spear in his toolbox. I remember the first time he told me to tighten something with it. As I placed the screwdriver I realized I didn’t know which way to turn it. Seeing my embarrassment, he wrapped his hand around mine and said, “turn it this way to tighten and this way to loosen.” Every time thereafter that I picked up that screwdriver I could see his hand around mine.
As we herded the cows to take to the stockyard’s final sale, Daddy Wix was unusually quiet. When the last cow was in the pen, he slowly shut the gate. Like the Apostle Peter, I seem to find the right time to say the wrong thing, and this was one of those times. I said, “I sure won’t miss this.” With a tremble in his voice, he replied, “I will.”
Over time my heart has softened as my body has strengthened, and my memories have grown deeper and fonder about the Wix Place. After Daddy Wix’s passing there was something I just had to have. At the estate auction, his brother Horace Wix bought Daddy Wix’s tools to keep them in the family. I asked him if he would sell me the large screwdriver. I rummaged around in the tools until I found what I wanted. I paid Uncle Horace a dollar and made my way to the car with a blue handle screwdriver and an odd size pry bar.
On my desk at home is an aerial photo of the Wix Farm. When the pressures mount, I will pick it up and remember a much simpler time. Yes, Daddy Wix, I think I understand a little bit of what you meant when you said that you would miss it. Because I now miss it, too
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Actual conversations with my weird children in the past 24 hours:
Me: “Why is there a shower curtain in the middle of the floor?”
Thomas: “Cause I wore it outside.”
Me: “Ellie, how was that event you went to?”
Ellie: “It was weird and loud and smelled like shower farts.”
Me: “No, we are not stopping at the store. We don’t need anything.”
Ivey: “But can we pleeeease just stop at the Dollar Genital?”
Conversation with Ivey
Ivey: “When I grow up, I want to be a queen.”
Me: “Well, ok! That sounds fun.”
Ivey: “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Me: “I don’t know…”
Ivey: “You could be a witch.”
Pet and Snow Photos From Our Readers
Lavonda Lee’s family pets — Cat : Tennessee Whiskey Dog : Tennessee River They get along great! The cat was barely weened and potty-trained Easton at age 6 ! Easton is autistic he loves his animals.
This is my story, thinking back through the years of wintertime when we were children and walked to school. On really cold days with snow, I remember one time I cried to go to school when Mom was saying it was too cold. She finally let me go with the rest of them. When we got about half a mile up the road, I was crying to go back home. My sister made me go on. It was really cold. We went on to school. I don’t remember the rest of that day, but I loved school. I think those days made us stronger and healthier, along with the healthy food we all grew and canned for winter.
Like I said, we had lots of snow back in the fifties and sixties. Some of our brothers or our brother-in-law would come get us after we started going to Walland. We had plenty of playtime outdoors. We played hide and seek, sometimes hiding down under sage fields. One of our sisters never found us. We were always tricking one another while playing. Those good old days are gone now.
After we grew up in the eighties, in 1985 it got the coldest on record on this date, 24 degrees below zero. We all made it through that time, but it was very cold. Then in the year 1993, there was a big snowstorm that took down power poles, trees, and even some rooftops. The power was out for almost two weeks, but we had wood heat and oil lamps. We had to open the door to the loft to let the air go to the roof to help melt the snow. We had some very cold times, but people around here always prepared for winter weather. We keep books and other stuff today so if we have a bad spell, as Mom used to say.
I hope you enjoyed my story and hope it warms your heart.
TIIPTON-HAYNES STATE HISTORIC SITE
2620 South Roan St
Johnson City, TN 37601
Maple Syrup Festival at Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site. Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site will be hosting its 22nd Annual Maple Syrup Festival and Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, February 8, from 8am to 3pm. Have you ever wondered how maple syrup gets from the tree to your table? Did you know that it takes 10 gallons of sap to make a pint of syrup? This is your chance to learn all about it! Come out to Tipton-Haynes to discover the history, lore, and method of making maple syrup. See how the sap is extracted from the maple trees located throughout the grounds of the site and then watch as the sap is boiled down over a wood fired furnace until it becomes the rich, flavorful maple syrup that you love so much.
From 8am to 11am, a pancake breakfast with delicious maple syrup from Maple Grove Farm of Afton, TN will allow visitors to enjoy the deliciousness of nature. Accompanying the pancakes will be bacon, sausage, grits, and more. Juice, coffee, and milk will also be available. Be sure to arrive early and let us feed you before watching our volunteers boil the sap into maple syrup. Seating will be limited inside but extra seating is furnished outside at the picnic area.
Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children twelve and under (children 3 and under are free) while admission with breakfast is $10 for adults and $5 for children. As always, Tipton-Haynes members are FREE! Donations are welcomed and will go to help the site continue its mission values. Genuine maple syrup from Maple Grove Farm of Afton, TN will also be for sale.
Tipton-Haynes is a Tennessee Historical Commission State-Owned Historic Site.
Tipton-Haynes is located in South Johnson City at 2620 South Roan Street. For additional information, please call 423–926–3631 or email tiptonhaynes@outlook.com.
Meet Your Local Librarian — Sean Dietrich — Jan 6
The New York Times recently published an article stating that librarians are facing a “crisis of violence and abuse.” So I just thought you’d like to meet your local librarian.
WENDY — I earned my masters in library science in 1970 and got my first job. There was a little girl who came to our branch every day at the same time. She would read exactly the same book, and she did this for months. She never checked the book out, she only read the same few pages every day. We all wondered what she was doing.
One day I asked her why she came in to read the same pages. She told me she was teaching herself how to read by memorizing pages of the book so she could recite them to herself for practice. I told her she could take the book with her and keep it with her all the time, but she said she’d rather memorize.
Then the girl recited the first chapter to me. I knew I was dealing with a gifted child.
I was able to get her tested academically and she was accepted into a school for advanced students. I don’t know what happened to her, but I think about her all the time.
MISTY — My dad went to libraries all his life, he always kept a stack of books by his bed. He taught himself Spanish by reading a book from Stanislaus County Library, just so he could communicate with his Spanish-speaking coworkers and make friends with them.
When his friends asked how he learned Spanish they were all shocked when he told them the library. This brought him into all kinds of homes and situations, helping Spanish-speakers in need.
EMILIO — I was 19 years old and bought a 1969 MGB I wanted to restore, and I literally knew nothing about cars. My brother was a talented mechanic, he could bring any engine back to life, just like my dad could.
My brother died in a car accident before we loosened the first bolt on the MGB.
I promised my brother in a prayer that I would restore the car for him, so that same night I went to the library and found a Haynes auto repair manual. I took my car apart piece by piece, with no [bleeping] idea what I was doing. I brought it back to life. That car has been entered in car shows from coast to coast.
BRENDA — I dropped out of school in the eighth grade when my mom killed herself, and nobody even tried to stop me from dropping out. (I am 63).
Eventually I decided to get my GED. Then I went to get my degree in English. Currently I help others prep for GED exams, and I still spend a lot of time in libraries, helping students who need extra attention. It’s a hard test.
REGINA — I was a librarian for 39 years when I finally decided to retire. My favorite thing about being a librarian was the look on someone’s face when you showed them something new, a skill they would be able to use for the rest of their life.
I taught kids to read, I taught adults to read, I taught rural patrons how to use internet search engines for the first time, and taught out-of-work single mothers how to search classifieds on the Internet.
I showed people how to enroll in college online, and I showed grandparents how to send emails. I once showed an old man how to access photos on his cell phone so he could see a picture of his newborn grandchild, and he cried right in front of me.
ANONYMOUS — I learned how to read by listening to audio books and following along in the paperback versions. My librarian taught me how to do that.
I was abused at home, often I frequented my local library with bloody lips and busted noses, but she was one of the only people who showed me love. I was failing school because of illiteracy. I hung out at the library because it was safe.
My librarian would find audio books for any book I wanted to read, even hard-to-find books. I later found out that she was buying these cassette-tape books with her own money and donating them to the library.
She is gone now from breast cancer, but she was a very cool lady and she set off a ripple effect in my life.
ME — Support your local librarian.
Romance and suspense (books) are in the air for Valentine’s Day
Need a book date for Valentine’s Day? Read one of local author Stephanie Edwards’ five romantic suspense novels. Each book features a strong female main character and her love interest, who supports her through every harrowing challenge she faces.
Meet the couples in Edwards’ books:
Lowcountry Charm: A Palm Court Suspense
Nancy and Brian, now in their 50s, dated during high school and broke up due to a misunderstanding. They reunite decades later and decide to give their relationship a second chance. As if dating after 40 isn’t hard enough, Nancy is the new sole caregiver to her five grandchildren and is being haunted by a malevolent spirit. Brian’s patience and encouragement go a long way to helping rekindle their old flame.
The Word Dancer: An Appalachian Tale
Maribelle and Sam meet in 1968 when she moves to a remote mountain town to teach Deaf children and their families American Sign Language. Sam supports Maribelle as the townspeople share their skepticism of her methods. When another man falls hard for Maribelle, she faces the dangers of unrequited love. Sam helps her bring an end to the terror this man unleashes.
The Haunting on Palm Court: An Isle of Palms Suspense
Blake and Clint grew up as best friends and fell in love as teenagers. As young couples often do, they grew apart after high school. In her mid-30s, Blake returns to the island to escape her narcissistic ex-fiancée, Parker. After a series of horrific events, Clint and Blake rebuild a friendship and eventually, fall back in love. When a maniacal spirit threatens their safety and serenity, they grow even closer.
Return to Palm Court: An Isle of Palms Suspense
Brittany and Ryan met during high school and stay together during college and grad school. Before they settle into their careers and get married, Brittany visits her sister at the family bed and breakfast in South Carolina for some sunshine and family time. She is dismayed when nothing goes as planned. Interactions with Ryan seem strained and mysterious at times, but she quickly discovers he isn’t to blame. Instead, they work together to send the ghosts of her past to the Other Side.
Christmas on Palm Court: An Isle of Palms Suspense
Elaina and Todd met during college. As the young couple prepares for their engagement party, Elaina falls ill. When she realizes it’s no ordinary illness, she fights for her life in every sense of the phrase. As Elaina escapes the grasp of an unexpected kidnapper, Todd helps her save Christmas for everyone.
You can purchase Edwards’ novels at Neighborly Books in downtown Maryville or at any online retailer. Come meet Edwards in person at the Galentine’s Day market event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8 at Foothills Mall. She will have all her books available for purchase. Read more about Edwards’ novels at stephedwardswrites.com.
February 7th is National Send A Card To A Friend Day. Why not send a card to a friend, or better yet to a few friends? I know postage is high but maybe you can put a few extra postage stamps into your budget. You might consider sending a “thinking of you card” through the mail. If you send a card, you might want to personalize it with a note or letter. We think of our friends throughout the year, so this day gives us an opportunity to let them know we are thinking about them and care for them.
Sending cards dates back to ancient times. The Chinese would send elegantly designed messages as well as the Egyptians. During the Renaissance, greeting cards were sent for specific holidays and events. Victorian times increased the use of greeting cards for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, and more.
Now we live in a digital time, we send out birthday cards, Christmas cards, and more online, yes, they are appreciated, and we need to continue doing that but sending a card in the mail is something special. Send out a “Just Thinking of You” type of card, make your own card, or send a postcard. It brightens our day to get a warm friendly text or private message and takes less effort on our part, but do you remember the last time a friend sent you a card just for being their friend? Set aside a few minutes to write a short note or a long note on a card and send it to make a friend’s day!
I do not know, nor could I find the origins of NATIONAL SEND A CARD TO FRIEND DAY, but I still like its meaning. Why not send a card to a friend you know online only, make a personal connection, it will do your heart good.
Instead of just sending a card on “Card Day”, I challenge you to send out at least one card a month to make someone’s life brighter.
Snow in Tennessee
The Blizzard of 93 and Other Snowy Stories By Linda Hatcher
I suppose most everyone is old enough to remember the blizzard of 93. I remember the blue lightening that night, it was lighting up the area when it flashed the trees. It was popping and the transformers were blowing. The snow drops were so big, Danny said that was the biggest drops he ever saw. Our power went off around 11:15 that night and we were without power for eight days, but we had wood heat and we cooked on the heater.
We had prepared for a big snow. The next morning, I started beating a path to the barn to put feed out for the chickens and also got a bucket to take back to the house. My dog Tasha went so far with me, sat down, and waited for me to come back. It was so deep all you could see was her tail above the snow.
Our closest neighbors didn’t have any heat. Another neighbor and my nephew carried them an oil heater and some fuel they knew how to survive through a snowstorm. When they got to their house, she had oil lamps lit, they were sitting in a circle with their coats and mittens on. Our nephew said it was warm enough in there, but they were almost out of oil for their lamps.
A power pole fell right below our house, it pulled the wires from the side of the house. Our neighbor’s son walked in from Ellejoy Road to check on his mother, he had to park his 4-wheeler and walk in because of trees being down on the road. He said it looked like a war zone with all the trees and poles down.
Our cousin walked from his house and said the Community Baptist Church was on fire. It was later rebuilt. They had declared the area a disaster area and called in the National Guard. My uncle saw an army tank coming up the road going to Bruce Street in Walland. The tank was there to get someone that was sick, his daughter had walked out to get help. She came to my aunt’s house and called for help for her father. When my uncle saw the tank coming up the road, he told my aunt that he had saw a lot of tanks when he was in World War II, but never thought he would see one outside his window going up the road.
After the snow stopped, I measured it and it was 28 inches. Things finally got back to normal and in a few weeks we had a beautiful spring.
Testament of Love — By Dana Lund
My dad served in the jungles of Vietnam, and after his passing, my mother gave me his cherished Gideon Bible, the one given to soldiers as they entered the service. It is worn, frayed binding and pages tell a story of deep use and love, bringing tears to my eyes.
Dad’s service began in 1965, and as I flipped through the Bible, I found handwritten notes: his parents’ names, their address, scripture notations, and even a Valentine’s card from a young cousin, Kate Patty. It must have been special to him, as he tucked it into this Bible he clearly treasured and may have even carried into battle.
One of his notes referenced James 4:14: his notation reading “Life is a divine gift from God. Faithful stewards lead accountable lives to honor and glorify God, with the hope of life eternal.” I imagine him in the chaos of war, finding peace in those words, reminded of life’s frailty and the importance of depending on God’s will. Scriptures reminding that we are called to live humbly and faithfully, knowing our time is in God’s hands.
Even now, my dad’s Bible teaches me powerful lessons. It reminds me of love, faith, and God’s promises — enough to sustain him through war and inspire me to be a faithful steward of life.
Tucked inside is a final reminder of life’s fragility: the Valentine’s card from Kate Patty. Just a few years after she sent it, in 1971, at an early age she passed away. This Bible, filled with memories and truths, connects me to my dad’s faith and the love that carried him through even the darkest times.
Hiram Ulysses Grant
Quilts by Arlene — From December 2022 Edition
I made this quilt for my sons’ friend when they had their little girl(they have 6 kids now plus she is about 19 or 20) They are very big Cardinal fans so I used Cardinal fabric and also added their last name. His wife used it to cover up when she breast feed her babies.
Here is a close up picture of the Cardinals quilt. The little girls dad was one the 4 roommates in a house my son rented when he was in college in Illinois. His roommates ,from college, and they still get together several times a year — they are really close .They take turns going to the different states they live in now. I love doing quilts with words on them .
Your Overflowing Bucket
“Say thank you to the Lord for being so good; for always being so loving and kind.” Psalm 107:1 TLB
Start your day with gratitude to the Lord for loving you the way He does and always will, and for all the blessings He’s given you. Look at this day in excitement and anticipation. You’re not under your circumstances, you’re above them!
Why? Because you walk and talk with the King of the universe. He will deflect every attack or use it to deepen your faith, broaden your perspective, and soften your hard heart. He knows exactly what you need to get motivated to spread His love and His Gospel to everyone you encounter.
List as many of the blessings He’s given you as you can. He knows you better than you know yourself, knows exactly what you need and gives it freely, abundantly. He’s careful not to give you so much you’d get complacent, narcissistic, unkind, and unloving.
What a G*D we serve! If you begin your day in gratitude, He will change your attitude and your perspective. You won’t need to demand your own way, be anxious or fearful, you’ll naturally share the love He overflows your bucket with.
Pray that the church, the body of Christ, will rise up united in the Spirit of Christ and spark revival in our marriages, our families, our jobs, neighborhood, and our churches. Why not attend and participate? Please keep praying and attending Awake21, tonight at RIO East or Awake21.com.
Love, les
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Thank you for supporting Blount and Beyond. Linda Kay and Kenneth Baker, Editors and Publishers of the Blount and Beyond Online Magazine. All articles are published verbatim. Free Online Magazine DISCLAIMER: This magazine is the cumulation of research and collection of stories from many of my family and friends. All articles are published verbatim. I am sure you will find misspellings, wrong dates, and other errors. I apologize in advance for all errors and mistakes you find. Copyright @ 2024 by Linda Kay Baker. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without prior permission of Linda Kay Baker except as provided by United States of America copyright law.
