On the one hand, it can inspire the greatest wonder and delight in those who view it. But on the other, those who try to possess (or ingest) it are ultimately destroyed, taking their place in the soil alongside the plant they’ve consumed. … More Narcissus: Harbinger of Spring, Sign of Home, Figure of Myth
For twenty years, it hosted stock car racing events that featured such names as Richard Petty, Fireball Roberts, and Tim Flock. Then, in 1968, protests from local clergy–who were tired of parishioners being absent from their pews on Sunday, the official race day–led to the eventual closing of the track. … More Exploring Occoneechee Speedway, a Landmark of Stock Car Racing
What if December 25th were a day for us to give gifts that we’ve made with our own two hands, preferably with reused/recycled/sustainable materials? And what if December 25th were a day for sharing those gifts with the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten in society? … More Redefining Christmas: The Untold History of Our Most Beloved Holiday
It proves that all of us are authors, not only of works of fiction, but of our own lives; and that our lives are every bit as valuable as any work of fiction. In fact, far more so. … More Four Ways Fiction Writing Can Improve Your Hiking
Around the time their first son, Thomas, was born on July 2nd, 1823, Anthony had a house constructed for the family near the confluence of the Eno River and Buckquarter Creek. … More Exploring the Anthony Cole House at Eno River State Park
Mark Explores 