PAGE 12A PICKENS COUNTY PROGRESS THURSDAY. DECEMBER 21.2023
Christmas lights and decorations around Pickens
Photos by Max Caylor, Dan Pool
and Angela Reinhardt
frort Ike desk cf''penise 'Votij.
Greetings!
Christmas, a magical time seen through the eyes of a child, holds a
special place in our hearts as we transition from youthful wonder to adult
responsibilities. The anticipation of waking early and rushing to the tree
to discover Santa’s surprises is a memory etched in our minds. From my
cherished Cinderella watch and Easy Bake Oven to the quick discard of
the clothes I received in pursuit of the next gift, these moments
encapsulate the essence of innocent delight.
As we grow older, it becomes imperative to pause and reflect on the
purity of our youth. Recapturing the enchantment of those early mornings
reminds us to appreciate the simple joys of life. Amidst the hustle and
bustle, there lies a need to reconnect with the child within, embracing
the sense of wonder that made Christmas mornings so magical.
One profound way to evoke emotions during the season is through
thoughtful gift-giving. I recall a heartfelt present I gave in memory of
Mamaw, the family matriarch and wonderful cook. She was somewhere
between Rachael Ray and Paula Deen in preparing the comfort foods
we all love. I set out compiling her recipes (written on every piece of
scrap paper Mamaw could find) and I created a cookbook adorned with
photos from our Christmas and family dinners, and quotes from each
family member, expressing their love for her signature dishes. The tears
shed while assembling this gift were a testament to its emotional impact,
and the joy it brought was immeasurable. Now, with each family shared
meal we are reminded of Mamaw’s enduring presence.
In these acts of giving and reflecting on the past, Christmas becomes
more than a festive occasion; it becomes a celebration of cherished
memories, shared love and the enduring spirit of family.
As we stand on the threshold of the upcoming year, let us embrace the
promise it holds. With hope as our compass and lessons from the past
as our guide, may the journey ahead be one of growth, resilience and
joy. As we navigate the unknown, let kindness be our constant
companion, and may the canvas of the new year be painted with
moments of fulfillment and purpose. Here’s to the opportunities that
await, the challenges that will shape us and the unwritten chapters that
will define our story in the unfolding tapestry of time. Wishing you a year
filled with discovery, accomplishment and the boundless potential that
lies ahead. Cheers to the adventures that await in the coming year!
In Good Health,
C^SUYUylJO
Denise Ray, President & CEO
Piedmont Mountainside Hospital
G Piedmont ffatfcka
Visit Tate Depot
Dec. 28 for
holiday open
house
Stretch the holiday
season through the
New Year with a special
holiday season open
house on Thursday the
28th featuring Thomas
the Tank Engine and
his friends. Tate Depot
Model Railroaders
invite you and yours to
tour the depot and view
the expansive model
train set. The depot will
be open from 10 a.m. to
2 p.m. Learn more
about the model
railroad and TDMR at
tatedepottrainsociety.org.
A festive holiday wonderland lights up the night sky on Nalley Drive.
A rustic, old-fashioned Christmas on Grandview Rd.
Inspiring illumination at another Nalley Dr. home.
Illuminated nativity scene in Hinton.
The Grinch was spotted sneaking around outside a
residence in Hinton.
H
ME
Y
CH
TMA
1
With warm wishes for a happy holiday
season, along with heartfelt thanks for your
friendship and goodwill.
Santa for Hire. Churches, Civic Groups,
Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Children’s Parties.
moss.fountain@gmail.com
706-299-6539
400,000 Christmas bulbs light up
Blackwater Station
Andy Carroll’s life-size train and gingerbread land are
part of a massive light scene in the Can’er Mill Road area.
Carroll constructed all the decorations himself and has
been adding to his collection since he began in 1995.
Talking Rock is aglow with 400,000 Christmas bulbs at
Blackwater Station. The family themed Christmas expe
rience has a walk-thru maze, firepit, s’mores, yard
games concessions, food truck and more. The Christmas
event runs 5:30p.m.- 9p.m. each night through Decem
ber 23. Kids five and under are free and adult entrance
is $10 per person.
r
Piedmont
Mm IMTA IMCinC
MOUNTAINSIDE
Christmas Dragons at
Northside Curiosities.
