In these modern times, there aren’t as many reasons to hang our stockings “by the chimney with care.” That is until Christmastime arrives, and then we all want the biggest, grandest stocking we can find to be filled by Santa on Christmas Eve. How did that even become a thing? And what are some ideas for stocking stuffers? We’re glad you asked.
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Inspiration | Mast Family Favorites
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November 28, 20254 minute READ
Christmas Magic Takes Many Forms
Jack Tales are one of Appalachia’s most beloved storytelling traditions. The oral folklore series recounts the antics of Jack, a clever young boy, who finds himself in countless predicaments. ...read more
Adventure | Inspiration | Local Flavor
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November 13, 20259 minute READ
Holiday Togetherness in the Twin Cities
The cities of Winston and Salem, North Carolina, merged in 1913. Winston, a growing tobacco and textile town, also served as Forsyth County’s seat of government. Salem had been the center of culture and commerce for the area’s large Moravian population since the 18th century. Festival of Lights in Tanglewood Park - photo above courtesy of Visit Winston-Salem and Forsyth County Parks & Recreation...read more
In the days after September 27, 2024, highway information signs were emblazoned with a message... Do Not Travel in Western North Carolina. That sounds ominous, but its message was not overstated. Because of the tireless work by state and federal employees, local folks, and thousands and thousands of volunteers, the mountains are OPEN – including two lanes of Interstate 40 – and we invite you to vacation... And volunteer!
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Inspiration | Local Flavor | Travel
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November 30, 202310 minute READ
It Just Would Not Be the Holidays Without
... Our favorite foods! Food is universal because everybody’s got ta eat! And the last two months of the year are filled with more than their fair share of family meals, work gatherings, special outings to favorite restaurants, tins filled with homemade cookies and fudge, and the anticipation of food traditions handed down from generation to generation
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At Home | Recipes
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May 26, 20237 minute READ
John and Faye Cooper: Why We Support Land Trusts
Even before we bought the Mast General Store, we were taken by the beauty of Valle Crucis. We’ve heard people describe the drive out Broadstone Road as traveling through a time portal. In the 1970s, fields in the river bottoms would be filled with tobacco, cabbage, or high with hay to feed cattle that were grazing in the summer pasture.
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