I am reminded of my Appalachian ancestors -- their quests and conquests, our varied histories, the will to survive, and the seemingly innate ability to simply be thankful and content with the most important things in life -- family, friends, laughter, togetherness, sharing and caring. Embodying this spirit, my granny, "Mommy Dorcie," aka Dorcie June Short Mullins. The centerpiece of the elaborate 11x14 foot creation will be a black-and-white drawing of my granny's hands -- a portrait representative of not only my Mommy Dorcie, but of all the grannies, past and present, whose spirits live within the fibers of our being.

I am blessed to have made such precious memories over the course of the past year and look forward to future interactions with "our people -- our Appalachia."