OUR Appalachian FOOTHILLS ADVENTURE

Immersed in the Woods of NC

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I had no idea what to expect when we arrived at our first stop in Western North Carolina. When I finally settled down and figured out my surroundings, I was surprised and amused at what I discovered.

​Hickory Cove Bible Camp, where we are volunteering until mid-March, was tucked away in a wooded area in Taylorsville, 20 minutes or more from the nearest store--unless, of course, you are talking about Dollar General, which seems to show up no matter which direction we are driving! Evidently, they are found in the remotest area, and folks are known to stop there often for food, hardware, kitchen or garden items, makeup or candy. Whatever they forgot to pick up the day before. I vowed I would never be one of "those" and so far, I've managed to keep my distance.

NC: A Temperate Zone

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I found the local grocery store  display above to be a bit puzzling, since North Carolina is generally a temperate zone. Poor kids! They'll be hankering for snow that will never come. Or, at best, only one day every few years,

Speaking of weather, each day is different. Although it rains often, and the temps fluctuate during the day between 49 and 69 degrees in February, one thing is consistent. Gorgeous sunsets!! This state has a corner on the best colors and glow ever!

The History of Street Signs

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No one has told me this, but, I don't need a history lesson to figure out how the streets and roads are named in this  wooded farmland with rolling hills and dales. Long ago, when there were no street signs, a body, when asked for directions would say, "Go up the road apiece until you get to Bowman's Dairy, turn right, down the hill and you'll see it: first building on your left." 

Yep. That's how it happened for sure. Friendship Church Road, Wayside Church Road, Rink Dam Road and Miller's Garage all  describe buildings, businesses or structures located either in the past or presently. It's quite charming!

Hickory Cove Bible Camp

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We have been warmly welcomed at Hickory Cove by the dedicated staff. My husband has been helping with maintenance during our time here, getting the camp ready for a very busy summer season. I, on the other hand, have been helping sweet Sylvia, the executive assistant (below) sorting supplies in the nurse's quarters, making phone calls for Angel Tree, organizing 15 years of files and various other odd jobs. I'm loving it!

The Mountain Lodge Decor

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The camp has graciously allowed us to stay in their double wide trailer dubbed "The Lodge" while we are here. Look at the cozy view I have each morning while I complete my writing tasks! You'd never guess we are living in the North Wing of a trailer--it has four bedrooms and two baths. More than sufficient for the two of us. Our nightly routine usually includes a walk up the road to the mailbox (a mere eighth of a mile or less both ways.) But, it does give us a bit of fresh night air and exercise. It is eerily quiet for the woods, but peaceful. I hardly ever see a creature other than a squirrel or two, which is surprising, although I do hear the birds twittering away most mornings.

Friendly Faces and Places

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People in the Piedmont area of North Carolina are friendly and talkative. Whether I'm in a store, restaurant or doctor's office, someone is sure to strike up a conversation about literally anything from the last customer's garden to their stash of candles they need to donate. So fun!

Hickory: Furniture Capital of North Carolina

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Since there are so many trees in North Carolina, it makes sense that it's known for its quality furniture. We owned two bedroom sets back in Illinois made in this state. We visited the Hickory Furniture Mart one day and was amazed at the variety all under one roof. Too bad our future home is 5 hours to the east!

Hope you've enjoyed this peek into our nomad life. It's an adventure I never thought I would experience, but I know it will make us appreciate our townhouse when we finally settle in. God has been good to make all the connections just when we need them. Can't wait to see what He has in store next!

Have you ever been without a home for a period of time? I'd love to hear about it in the comments below. Check out my St. Augustine Adventure, too!