Sharing the Heart of Appalachia: An Invitation to Connect, Give, and Preserve

I'd like to share something that's been close to my heart. While I knew my Granny hailed from the mountains, the stories about her Appalachian roots were sparse, mainly because our family live a good distance so I wasn't around my grandparents and cousins on a daily basis. It wasn't until I retired and relocated to North Carolina that I was blessed later to live in Tennessee near the state line with Virginia, fulfilling my long-standing desire to reside in the mountains.

A few years later life took me back to North Carolina to care for a family member, but the mountains never left my thoughts. During my genealogy search, I uncovered the fascinating journey of my paternal grandmother's family. Originating from Germany the Rector's were blacksmiths and clockmakers, an settled in Germanna, Virginia, before making their home in Spring City and Dayton, Tennessee, nestled in the heart of Rhea County. After learning this it gave me a strong desire to learn about the life my kinfolk lived since the early 1700's.

Through our blog, Hearts of Appalachia, my goal is to not only preserve and share the stories of this region but also to hopefully give back in a meaningful way.

Now, here's where we need your help and support. Moving back to this cherished region, I hope my roots will make acceptance easier. Through this blog, I want to share the warmth and generosity of Appalachian people and be a source of help for those in need, just as I've been helped before.

FOOD RESOURCES LIST

In my own journey, there have been times when I needed assistance, especially with food resources and I was blessed to be able to pay it forward by volunteering at food banks and soup kitchens. Knowing the challenges many Appalachian families face, I've dedicated a section on Hearts of Appalachia to list all the food pantries, their locations, contact numbers, and opening times. A central hub for those seeking help and those willing to offer it.

But why stop there? I dream of something more profound – a project that not only supports local food banks but also celebrates the rich tapestry of Appalachian cuisine and stories. Imagine a cookbook filled with recipes passed down through generations, accompanied by tales that bring these dishes to life.

Mountain Holler Cooking

This isn't just a cookbook; it's a journey through the heart and soul of Appalachia. I'm calling on you, my fellow Appalachians, from West Virginia to North Carolina, to help bring this vision to life. Whether you submit a cherished recipe, lend a hand in organizing the cookbook, or helping to sell the cookbook, your involvement is crucial.

I've set up a group so you can share your recipes and stories. We'd love to see photos and even cooking videos in the group! Let's create something beautiful together – a cookbook that not only fills our kitchens but also fills the hearts of Appalachian families in need. This may be a massive undertaking, but with your support, I believe it can be a blessing that ripples through generations, uniting us in a shared mission to help others.

Appalachian Recipes