Tis the season

Before the New Year begins, I felt it was already time for a change. Christmas seems to be the time when we feel a little bit thicker, warmer or spiritual amongst other things. I wanted to take a step forward to call the New Year my own before it's even started.
You see, that's why I felt it time to start this blog, The Crookneck Squash.
Writing is a pleasure most of the time. I've been thinking about this blog for quite some time. Once I reached that point, where my fiance was having to cradle me amidst a emotional meltdown a couple of weeks ago, I realized that all the whining, banging on counter tops and curse words shouted out of frustration with my own career less life can only really change in economy like this, if I really want it to.
I was talking to Chris (that's the fiance') recently about how important it is we feel to support local businesses. We made this comment after driving along interstate 85 to Asheville, NC and quickly noticing all the road side billboards for small towns just an interstate exit away. Some of these were "Come see Historic Cowpens, SC" or "Visit Downtown Landrum, SC". It seems now is the time to start a business (with caution of course). I say "business" but what I really mean is finding a business, interest, hobby or exercise of your own and use to shape your present into what we all hope will be a better future in a country with a lot less debt.

With all the friendliness, history and excitement that seems to come from the people in the small towns of the interstate also comes a sharing of enthusiasm for where they're from and why you should c'mon on over.

So, The Crookneck Squash is my own small town business with bell on the door and mat out front to wipe your paws. I hope that this blog will not only provide a creative exit for myself but also to those of you reading too.
Feel free to comment or make recommendations for future posts, I encourage it all.


As this holiday season approaches closer each day with it's cold air on the back of my neck,
I wonder how my own home (town home rental with potential and heart) with Chris and my little $20 Christmas tree compares to that which I remember from growing up. I wonder how my tree is shaping the home I've created for Chris and I?
I look at it in it's 3 feet of glory, decorated with ornaments Chris and I have made through out our past almost four Christmas's living together and I see little tokens of our own character dangling from the branches. I see the retro style colored big bulb lights and little golden star on the top.
In remembering my tree growing up with my father, stepmother and sister, I see how much my own tree is different. Our tree growing up, with it's elegant white lights, big velvet bow and ornaments strategically placed and big price tag is something I remember, loved but don't want any longer as my own.
Now as a twenty six year old woman, I see my tree as truly my own and something I can continue to adorn now with my own little family's craft, humor and holiday spirit.


excited to start this journey,
austin