Not a Smooth Flight: The Story of Our State Bird
By 1943, North Carolina was one of only two states without a state bird — here’s how the Northern cardinal got the title.
Category: Noted
February Poem: Bush Tea
This poem is explores lineage and inheritances through the practices of making tea by gathering scraps from one’s environment.
Simple Life: The Pleasures of a Good Old Age
Age is just a number, I’ve discovered. As I gain in years, I notice miracles and relish in creative freedom — and don‘t plan on slowing down.
January Poem: Prophecy
These words remind us that love, beauty and chaos can appear all at once, in all forms including light and sound and at any time
The Importance of Artists in Schools
David Sedaris shares his memories in honor of the 45th anniversary of United Arts Wake County’s Artists in Schools program.
Simple Life: The Island Baby
As a young couple gears up to welcome their first child, neighbors in their small seaside town offer wisdom and support.
December Poem: Tracks
Memories of the author’s church, where her family worshiped, sang and provided for others despite the divisions in their town.
Simple Life: Christmas Wishes
What’s on this author’s list? Peace on Earth and pickup trucks. But losing Miss Jan is a reminder of what’s really important in life.
The Day He Came to Town: An Enfield Memory
On a beautiful coming-of-winter day, a boy gets bundled up to see a celebrity who’s even bigger than Elvis — the REAL Santa!
Upcycled Santa
Joel Haas has a decades-long tradition of putting up a quirky homemade Santa sculpture display in front of his house.
November Poem: The Bounty of Occasion
This writer illustrates the love within our cherished traditions — and the sweet, intimate moments that come from sharing food with family.
Simple Life: The Sacred Month
Reflections on the many moments in November that have us turning inward — including All Souls Day, Election Day and Thanksgiving.
October Poem: Arachno-phobia
Caught in a spider web, this writer fears the black widow that approaches.
Esmerelda: Mom’s Halloween Doppelganger
A writer remembers a mysterious transformation that occurred while she was trick-or-treating… one that’s followed her into adulthood.