. . . she said she read anything and everything. She also took continuing education courses at Maryville College in Cherokee culture, Appalachian Studies, and Creative Writing. Her two novels and other writing bear witness to her careful and detailed . . . Continue Reading
We wish everyone safe journeys, good health, and . . . Continue Reading
I try to think of a question to get us talking about this land we both love, but it hangs in the air out of reach. Instead, I . . .Continue Reading
My husband, imported from the Midwest, corrects me every time I call them stove eyes—he calls them burners—but we’re not cooking on gas and we’re in the South, my South, and I’ve always heard them called eyes and continue to do so. I grab a large-mouthed funnel, place it in a wide-mouthed jar, and . . . Continue Reading
Back in my quarters, that Black Saturday night was apocalyptic: tremors rattled the building; the storm raged with thunder and lightning; ash mixed with rain continued to plummet the base. I lay, sleepless on my bunk, as my roommate jumped out of his cot in the throes of a panic attack. He jittered about the room, moaning and praying. I was worried myself . . . Continue Reading
For now, the wind whispered across my face and neck. It felt like someone’s breath stood right behind me. A breeze seemed to hover around me so close that it curled inside my own breath—a breath that I can no longer call my own. Here, I share my breath with all who have breath and all who have . . . Continue Reading
They were once so much more than an entry to a house, a place to display plants, deposit muddy shoes, and greet people. Their usage was year-round, utilizing a quilt, and relying on the sun, for cold winter days . . . Continue Reading
The comforting glow of low light welcomed me in and I would nestle down into the covers while she flitted around the room drawing shades and making the room more snug. Always it was the same process. I found the sameness comforting. I knew the next question . . . Continue Reading
But we all have Christmas and Holiday memories. This year, let us bring our Appalachian histories to the forefront and tell them to our families. Let us come together and tell new stories, too. My sincere hope is that we as a mountain society will . . . Continue Reading
Thank you, Appalachia, for all your creativity, talent, and beauty. We offer our heartfelt gratitude to you all, along with a steadfast commitment to remain a venue for the creative spirit in these mountains. We are so honored to . . . Continue Reading