Caviness Town

I bet many of you didn't know a town really existed, but there is a community that the folks of Northern Moore County refer to as "Caviness Town." This two mile loop consists of families who have resided in this area for generations. Even though I am a Caviness, I grew up down the road from this area, and not all Caviness' live in this loop. However, since numerous ancestors of the Caviness family established their roots here, this was the primary reason a community was named for them.

This past weekend, I returned "home" to reminisce of the good ol'days in Highfalls, which was complete with the typical southern meal of chicken dumplings, pinto beans, cole slaw, and can't forget the persimmon pudding...

A dear friend once told me that returning back home after several years can allow us to have a tourist's perspective that we had never considered before our departure. I never understood the true meaning of this statement until today when I found myself taking pictures of the places I love the most in this rural area. It made me appreciate being surrounded by the family I admire and becoming more proud of where I grew up. Winding through the familiar curves on the country road with the bluegrass music blaring in the background, childhood memories instantly flooded my mind.

North Moore High School provided more than a high school diploma, the teachers and friends instilled confidence and life lessons that I will carry with me forever.

Highfalls Elementary represented the uniqueness of a K-8 education and the joy of spending nine years with the same classmates. Yes, we knew one another very well! The teachers here established the foundation needed for my academic success and made me want to reach for the stars.

Deep River is what connects us all in this close-knit community. Today, I had the chance to take a walk with one of my best friends and instead of us skimming rocks on the water, her three year old son had that privilege. We stood at the same place where I caught my first catfish and now twenty years later, Isaac was enjoying the thrills of the river.

Mamaw's house was built in the 1900's and this is where my family began. I was blessed to pass it each time I drove home on Grover Road. What I wouldn't do to renovate this old home!

"No place like home"....

Cool Fall Nights

Image taken from thsst.edu

This is my favorite season of the year, reminds me of the mountains with the cool, crisp air and the calm colors of autumn. Even though this is my favorite time of the year, it has become the most stressful due to the many demands of professional responsibilities and personal obligations. I have missed seeing the pumpkins and mums on the front porch steps along with my annual fall decorations that remain in the basement because I haven't had time to even take down the spring/summer. After discussion with colleagues at school, we continue to encourage one another to prioritize in order to get everything accomplished, which reminds me "What is really important right now?"

Celebrating my parents' birthdays, who both share another year older in the same month.

Watching my niece's eyes light up after watching her favorite Nick Jr. television come to life on stage.

Talking and reconnecting with old friends.

Being inspired by educators who are working diligently each day to make a difference in a child's life.


Jack-O-Lanterns.

Bubble bath.

Football.

Exercise, including clogging.

State fair, really wish I had a chance to go this year.

Candy corn.

Writing.

Sleep, how I have missed it.