down home keeping it down home - from the Sandhills to the Crystal Coast

m a g a z in e

FREEVol 7 -Issue 1 Nov/Dec 2014

TraditionsBackRoads Carolina

Holiday PieWhat’s your flavor?

Our Top Local Picks

love

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“Holidays are a wonderful time of the year, yet it tends to be the time we put on the most weight and do more damage to our body with all the holiday foods.

Let me teach you how to take your health back! I would love to share with you how I lost 60lbs in one year (even through the holidays), by eating real, nutrient dense foods!

In our fast food world, I teach a ten minute habit that will add 700% more nutrition than the average American gets!”

Contact Kari Powell for details at 919-634-7334or Kari.greensmoothie@gmail.com

www.mygsglife.com/healthmakeover

1402 E Ash Street - Goldsboro NC 27530 - 919-731-2222 - info@cocodarlings.comParties - Showers - Event Planning - Candy Buffets - Dessert Bars - Playdates - Women’s Boutique

Boutique Hours: Tuesday - Friday 10am. to 6pm. {Closed from 3 -4:30pm ea day} & Saturday 10am - 2pm

Coco’s Boutique is a trendy boutique offering clothing and accessories that reflect the latest style and fashion trends for woman of all shapes and sizes. If you are looking for that perfect outfit for a night out, business meeting, or even a casual lunch with friends, Coco’s Boutique has what your looking for!

Our clothing is very select. We don’t order in mass quantities so when you order a piece, it is unique - Come by and see us!

& Trendy Clothing Boutique for Women

Coc

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Put on your comfy PJ’s & Join us for a Fun Filled Night of toy making, cookie decorating & movie watching.

Enjoy snacks and hot cocoa ! Kids will stuff a 15” plush Holiday Animal, decorate Christmas cookies, write let-ters to Santa and so much more !

$30 ( due at time of registration to secure your space) includes 15” stuffable ,Cookie decorating, and snacks

Call 919-731-2222 or info@cocodarlings.com to register

Dec 5th -- 6-8p.m. @ Coco Darlings

Down Home Magazine is owned and operated by Cindi Pate, PO Box 901, Pikeville, NC 27863 - All inquiries can be made to this address as well as subscription requests. 1 year for $12 to cover postage. Subscriptions start the following issue.

All Community Info and Events for Down Home Magazine should be submitted to downhomemagazine@yahoo.com - All rights reserved.

Down Home Magazine is not responsible for misprints unless under signed terms of agreement. The information included does not always reflect owners own personal beliefs or opinions.

The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising or content that is not in keeping with the magazine’s standards.

DHM is distributed where consumers are throughout the sandhills to the coastal areas- and can be found online at:

www.downhomemagazine.com

staffCindi Pate - Sr Editor/Publisher page layout & design

Jarred Pate - Sales

contributors

On the CoverOur Tiop Picks for holiday shopping. All Local, All handmade, All worthy of shooping for the Holidays.

www.downhomemagazine.com

Cindi Pate Tammy Peterson

Jim Hinnant

P5 - Letter from the Editor

P7 - Holiday Pie

P10 - Arts & Events

P12 - Polar Express

P17 - Shoutout

P18 - Backroads Carolina

P22 - DHM’s Top Picks

This issue is all about the Holidays - specifically the traditions we carry out from year to year.

From simple family traditions, to foods we eat and and the feelings we try to recreate.

For as along as I can remember, I have been drawn to ceramic Christmas Trees from the 1970s era. Every house had one when I was a child. I wanted my children to experience the beauty.

Last year, I set out to find one for our home. I was quite pleased to find a nice vintage olive green colored one with snow covering the tips of each branch. Filled with colorful lights, the tree was perfect!

I can’t wait to put it back on display this Christmas Season.

Cindi Pate - Editor/Publisher

dhmEditor s

Note’

thischicadee.blogspot.com www.pinterest.com/downhomewww.facebook.com/downhomemagazine@thischicadee

page 7

Each Christmas Eve, all of my husband’s family gather at his parent’s home to celebrate Christmas.

We each bring a dish and the gifts we are to ex-change.

We play fruit basket turn-over and experience a num-ber of other loved traditions to remember the season. But, my most cherish tradi-

tion is the reading of the Christmas Story from the Bible just before we open presents. Luke 2:1-20.

Each member of the fam-ily reads a verse each, around a circle of family members, until the entire story is unvailed.

When I first married into the family, there were a lot less of us and we read a

few verses each. But, as the house began to be filled with grandchildren - sons and daughters and neices and nephews - our reading time has been shortened and we enjoy each new addition as they take their turn at reading a verse.

Cindi Pate

“Traditions”

What’s Your Favorite Holiday Pie?We all have our favorites! Pumpkin, Sweet Patato, Cherry, Chocoalte and

Coconut - just to name a few. You can’t have Thanksgiving or Christmas without pie. Three pies in particular are most common choices around the holdiays - Sweet Potato,

Pumpkin and Pecan! And we’’re sharing these three poipular recipes with you..

Southern Sweet Potato Pie

This pie is perfect for the season, the potatoes were just dug from the ground.

Ingredients:2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature 1/3 cup light brown sugar 1 large egg 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice 1 tablespoon honey 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed 1/2 12-ounce can evaporated milk 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 9-inch refrigerated piecrust

Directions1.Heat oven to 350° F.2.In a large bowl, with an elec-tric mixer on medium, beat the butter and sugar for 3 minutes. Add the egg, orange juice, and

Simple Pumpkin Pie

The single most requested dessert at our Thanksgiving table is pumpkin pie.

Ingredients:1 prepared pie shell16 ounces canned pumpkin1 cup lightly packed molasses cane sugar5-1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice1/2 teaspoon salt1-1/3 cups vanilla rice milk or 1-1/3 cups soy milk4 large eggs

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°.

2. Combine pumpkin, cane sugar, spices and salt in a mixer bowl. Mix until thoroughly combined.

3. Transfer to medium sauce-pan and simmer, stirring con-stantly, until thickened slightly,

honey and beat for 2 min-utes. Add the sweet potato, evaporated milk, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg and combine.3.Pour the sweet potato mix-ture into the crust. Bake until the filling is set, 50 to 60 minutes. Let cool for at least 30 minutes. Serve at room temperature.

8 servings.

Rich Pecan Pie

For Thanksgiving or Christmas, this Southern-style dessert is expected on many tables.

Ingredients: 3 eggs 1 cup white sugar 1 cup corn syrup 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups pecan halves 1 recipe pastry for a 9 inch single crust pie Directions1.Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).2.Beat eggs slightly in medium bowl. Beat in sugar, and then blend in syrup, butter or mar-garine, vanilla, salt, and pecans. Pour filling into unbaked pie shell.3.Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and continue baking 35 to 40 minutes; the pie will be brown and slightly puffed.

Makes 1 pie

about 5 minutes.

4. Whisk in the milk and re-turn briefly to simmer.

5. In separate small bowl, whisk the eggs together.

6. Return pumpkin mixture to mixer bowl and, with the mixer running on medium speed, add the eggs slowly.

7. Transfer mixture to pre-baked pie shell and bake on center rack for 25 minutes, or until the edges of the custard have cracked slightly and the center is set.

Tip: Cover edges of crust with strips of aluminum foil to prevent them from browning too much.

Cool pie on rack 1 hour before serving.

Ayden Anual Christmas Parade

Thu., Dec. 11Starting at 6:30 pm www.aydenchamber.comDowntown AydenAyden NC 28513

Stepping Into The Past with The Tobacco Farm Life MuseumEvery Saturday in November and December.www.tobaccofarmlifemuseum.org709 Church St., US Hwy 301 North Kenly NC 27542

December 2 & 4:

Christmas Candlelight ToursTuesday and Thursday 6:30 - 9 pm Come see open-hearth cooking, and enjoy a sample of apple cider, as we celebrate a festive Christmas on the Aycock farm, set in the late 19th century. Highlights include music performed in the Ida H. Williams Auditorium, and a Christmas “shadow play” in Oak Plains School. Costumed guides will explain com-mon Christmas traditions of the post-Civil War era in North Carolina. Admission is free, and open to the public.Charles B Aycock BirthplaceFremont North Carolina - Off of Hghway 117 South

presented by StageStruck: The Young People’s Own Theatre

Friday, November 14, 2014 at 7:00pm Saturday, November 15, 2014 at 7:00pmSunday, November 16, 2014 at 7:00pm

StageStruck kicks off its 25th season of The Young People’s Own Theatre with a retrospective tribute to the past 25 years of our musical premieres and dramatic presentations. StageStruck: The Story is an original musical revue showcasing favorite scenes and memorable musical moments from all

25 years of StageStruck’s history.

eThe Polar Expresspresented by Hubb’s Corn Maze

a photoessay of a wonderful tradition celebrated by many eastern north carolina families at Hubb’s Corn Maze in Clinton North Carolina.

10276 N US Hwy 421, Clinton, North Carolina 28328

eMay I see your ticket, please?

eall aboard

Santa Claus does not exist. Or does he? For one little boy - who’s not so sure, an amazing thing happens. Late on Christmas Eve, he lies in bed hoping to hear the sound of reindeer bells from Santa’s sleigh. But instead, he hears a steam engine’s

roar and whistle from outside his window. The conductor invites him on board to take an extraordinary journey to the North Pole with other children still in their pajamas. There, he receives an extraordinary gift only those who still believe in

Santa can experience.

www.hubbscornmaze.com

Mighty Christmas from Down Home Magazine

Find an array of styles and sizes of ceramic Christmas trees - made from the old vintage molds at

Pet Village and Ceramic Shop228 N Center St, Goldsboro, NC 27530

Phone: (919) 734-8100

written Jim Hinnantphotographed by Cindi Pate

Backroads Carolina:We Have a Tradition

Christmas has always been one of my favorite times of the year. As a kid, I looked forward to church Christmas programs, going to my grand-parents’ homes, seeing Christ-mas lights and decorations, and opening presents. We were allowed to open one present at home on Christmas Eve. Of course, my parents wouldn’t put everything under the tree before Christmas morning, so the ones there were something they didn’t mind us having early.

Christmas can become so commercial that we often forget what it’s all about. We’re celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the foundation of Christianity. Even though the exact date may not have been December 25th, it’s the date most celebrate His birth in a stable over 2,000 years ago. I’m sure there wasn’t a Christmas tree or electric lights in the stable where He was born, but the low glowing lights from our trees reminds me of how the light probably was that night.

Today, my favorite thing to do during Christmas is to visit family, especially my grand-

children, and see them open their presents. We have a tradi-tion of first reading the Christ-mas Story from the Bible, some-thing my dad did all my life, and the responsibility is now mine. I also enjoy seeing the Christmas decorations and lights, and there are several special places in our area that everyone should see.

The Meadow Lights claim to be “The largest and oldest Christ-mas attraction in Eastern North Carolina,” and it just may be that. Meadow is located just off I-40 east of I-95 near Benson, and has been a big Christmas attraction for many years. There, you can ride the train to view the lights or visit the old country store. It’s better if you go on a chilly evening so that you’ll ap-preciate everything you see. This year, they’ll open November 21st for the season.

Mike’s Farm is another East-ern North Carolina favorite. They offer a 30-minute hay-ride through the woods with Christmas Music and lights. There’s also a live nativity scene. Mike’s Farm runs this year from Thanksgiving through December 23rd and also December 26th and 27th.

A backroad is a

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in rural areas.

In North Caro-

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also referred to as

“blue roads”, the

roads are often con-

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Join us as we bring

you the new series-

Backroads Carolina!

backroadscarolina

The Cliffs of the Neuse State Park holds an annual Christmas Flotilla on the lake. Last year, there were about 20 boats with decorations and lights, and Santa made his appearance. This year, the event is planned for December 5th.

Other places include the Lights at Lake Myra in Wendell, a flotilla in New Bern, Lights on the Neuse in Clayton, and all the cities, towns, and villages who decorate for Christmas throughout our area. When you see them, let them re-mind you of the manger scene and Christ’s birth. Merry Christmas, everyone!

For more information, visit these web pages: MeadowLights.com MikesFarm.com NCParks.gov LakeMyraChristmas.com VisitNewBern.com LightsOnTheNeuse.com

WFosterDesignwww.etsy.com/shop/wfosterdesign

Handcrafted jewelry, crochet, ceramics, paintings, etc.

Dudley, NCwfoster3@nc.rr.com

919.222.2390

Hannah Naylor, Owner910-627-3836

Natural Handmade Soaps, Lotions, Lip Balms, Body Butter, Bath Bombs, Shaving Soap & morewww.NCSoap.weebly.com

Pikeville’s Hotdog Stand202 S. Goldsboro Street - Pikeville NC

Next to Pikeville Tire & Gas

Monday - Friday 11am - 3pm

Saturday 11am - 2pm

2 Hotdogs

& a Drink

$3

Melissa VeraBlogger - Couponer

Crafter - Product Tester

rmmmgvera@bellsouth.netwww.adventuresfrugalmom.com

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Our Top Local PicksWe’re back by popular demand. Some of our favorite

localartisans - all with products that someone on your Christmas list will love. Priced to fit your budget and made by men & women right here in

Eastern North Carolina.

love

www.downhomemagazine.com

Warms the SoulOur Top Local Picks

Super CUTE and stylish! Handmade chunky bubblegum jewelry for women and children. Our favorite: baseball, soc-cer and softball pendants for all you sports moms

That’s So SaraGoldsboro, North Carolinawww.facebook.com/thatssosara

Simple yet decadent homemade chocolate candies & treats. Excellent for gift-giving, special events or that special self-indulgent moment. Available online for special order or at The Village Gift Box in the Brick Village in Goldsboro.

Chocolate Droppe Candy ShoppeGoldsboro, North Carolinawww.facebook.com/TheChocolateDroppe

Earth Muffin - no stranger to Down Home Magazine - carries a wide range of hand sewn merchandise, including purses, bags, totes, mag-nets, coin pouches, wallets, children’s clothing and other misc. textile items! Her line of plush toys caught our eye as a Top Pick and can be found at S&K Village Gift Box, WC Arts Council and Wayne County Museum - Goldsboro, NC

Earth MuffinGoldsboro, North Carolinahttp://www.earthmuffindesign.etsy.com

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Crispy, spicy, cheesy - delicious! Sharp Cheddar Cheese and Cayenne pep-per top these crackers that are baked to crispy perfection!

Goodness Gracie Gourmet Foods specializes in Gourmet Toffee Cookies and Savory Snacks that are perfect for Corporate and Personal Gifting..

Goodness GracieWilmington, North Carolina

http://www.good-nessgracie.com/.

Local FlavorOur Top Local Picks

Pork products processed the old fashioned way and packed fresh daily. Today, Nahunta Pork Center is the largest all pork retail displayer in the eastern United States. The country sausage is made from an old family recipe. The country cured hams are hand rubbed in salt and spices for curing and aged over several months to acquire a true country ham flavor. Two Eastern NC loca-tions to serve you.

Nahunta Pork Center Nahunta, North Carolina & Raleigh Farmers’ Marketwww.nahuntapork.com

Peanut picking is a busy time in Bertie County. Each fall farmers race to ensure the year’s harvest is coaxed from the sandy soils at the peak of the peanuts’ naturally fresh flavor.

Bertie County Peanuts pays homage to this nostalgic treat with our line of peanut snacks and treats. Our personal favorite: Candied Nuts.

Bertie County PeanutsWindsor, North Carolinawww.pnuts.net

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For the HomeOur Top Local Picks

Lucky 3 Farm LLC is family owned and operated - lo-cated north of Raleigh - in beautiful Franklin County, NC. Owners, boldly believe that every animal that is sacrificed for the nourishment of our minds and bodies should be honored. One way they do that is to use all of the animal, not letting anything go to waste. Out of this mentatilty sprouted a skin care, household and pet care product line that is worthy of a Top Pick.

Lucky 3 FarmLouisburg, North Carolinawww.lucky3farm.com

Local artisans, Tommy & Becky Evans, create custom - made to order - door hangers, wall plaques, mono-grams and decorated letters. Specializing in special order team door hangers. Perfect for holidays, game days or any day. One of our favorites, a Christmas door hanger painted in ECU’s team colors

Sawdust DesignsPrinceton, North Carolinawww.facebook.com/SawdustDesign

Susan Palmer is a local artist from Pikeville, NC, who loves colorful, eclectic designs and beach themes. These whmisical ECU themed {Go Pire”ettes!”} wine glasses caught our eye. All handmade just for you. Pick your school or motife in time for the holidays.

Suzy’s SunshinePikeville, North Carolinawww.suzyssunshine.com

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For the HomeOur Top Local Picks

Glass CreationsGoldsboro ,North Carolina919-778-2380

Local artisan, Lois Capps makes beautiful creations from glass. One of our favorites, her yard stakes. A variety of styles and themes to choose from, she makes tomorrow’s treasures today!

Wheel thrown functional pottery by Nancy Newman that is food, oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe. Available in a wide variety of colors us-ing lead free glaze. We were attracted to her coastal themes - including sea turtles, crabs, shells and other oceanic symbols. You can find her work on her facebook page and in the Brick Villiage, Goldsboro, NC.

ExCLAYmations by Nancy NewmanJacksonville, North Carolinahttps://www.facebook.com/nancy.newman.7967

Beautiful handmade items - including rag quilts and this microwave potato pouch - ready to cook the perfect baked potato.

Allygator MonkeyGoldsboro, North Carolina

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Hackle Computer Service

Home / Small Office PC Service

www.HackleComputerService.com

Call/text (919) 429-9836 Email: service@hacklecomputerservice.com 1819 Friendly Rd Goldsboro, NC 27530

Virus Removal Repair Crashes & Blue Screens Tune-up/Cleanup Services Hardware repair/replace New system setup Wireless Networking And Much More

On-site, Drop-Off, Remote Support Options, Pickup & Delivery, Helpdesk Service

Wishing You and Your Family a Mighty

Christmas & a Blessed New Year