Editor’s Letter

A Season of Change, A Reason to Look Deeper

There is something about September and October that feels like a turning point.

Summer hasn’t completely let go, especially here in North Carolina, but you can feel the change coming. The days begin to shorten, routines settle back into place, and every now and then there’s a morning that carries just enough coolness in the air to remind us that fall is on its way.

I’ve always loved this time of year. The September/October season doesn’t demand that we leave one season behind and immediately embrace another. Instead, it gives us a little space in between—a chance to take stock of where we’ve been, where we’re going and, perhaps most importantly, what we’ve noticed along the way.

That idea seems to run quietly through so many of the stories in this issue of Franklin County Magazine.

Our Editor’s Pick, “White Lines,” is one of those pieces that stayed with me long after I finished reading it. On the surface, something can seem so ordinary, so much a part of the scenery that we barely give it a second thought. But sometimes, when we slow down and really pay attention, the ordinary has something important to say. I love writing that makes me stop, think and see something familiar a little differently, and that is exactly what this piece did for me. I hope it does the same for you.

We also introduce you to Unit 000, a novel by Upstate author Rickey Powell. Behind this book is a deeply personal story, making this much more than simply another title for your reading list. It is another reminder that the things people create often carry pieces of their lives within them—and knowing the story behind the story can completely change the way we experience it.

Of course, fall shouldn’t be all introspection. It is also one of my favorite seasons for getting out, trying something new and finding another reason for a road trip. In this issue, we’re taking you down to the Lowcountry for a look at the Charleston Beer Fest, an October celebration that brings together craft beer, community and plenty of reasons to make a weekend of it.

We’re also taking a little time away with my Tank Away Getaway to Three Beaches, a trip I enjoyed with my grands. There is something special about stepping away from the usual routine and sharing that time with family, even if only for a short while. A change of scenery can give us room to breathe, notice something new and return home with a refreshed perspective—and the memories made along the way are often the best part of all.

In What We’re Exploring, we pour something a little different and spend some time with SirDavis American Whisky. Part of the fun of this feature has always been discovering things that catch our attention and sharing the experience with you—and this one certainly gave us something to talk about.

And as our schedules become busier again, our Fall Wellness feature is a timely reminder that taking care of ourselves doesn’t necessarily require a complete lifestyle overhaul. Sometimes wellness is simply about finding realistic ways to move more, feel better and make ourselves a priority—even when life is full.

Maybe that is what I like most about this September/October issue. These stories are very different, yet each asks us in its own way to pay attention—to the stories behind the people we meet, the meaning hiding in ordinary moments, the experiences waiting beyond our usual routine and even the things our own bodies and minds may be telling us.

Life moves quickly. Seasons certainly do. Before we know it, the leaves will be changing, the holidays will be approaching and another year will somehow be nearing its end.

But we aren’t there yet.

For now, we get this beautiful space between what was and what comes next.

Take the drive. Read the book.Try something new. Take care of yourself. Notice the white lines.

And perhaps, every once in a while, look beyond them.

Till November spread more love and laughter all around and remember to be grateful for all your blessings. Please, send some snail mail to a loved one.

With love and gratitude,