Bless Your Books Blog

By Courtnee Turner Hoyle: My father’s fourth wife was originally from the northern states. She was very affectionate, and she commented on the southern-style hugs that went around during one of our family’s holidays. I didn’t think about the difference until she mentioned it, but then I noticed the subtle variations. Mothers and grandmothers tended…

By Courtnee Turner Hoyle: Many families and individuals enjoy light shows around the holidays. In my area, one seasonal display stands out, the Pinnacle Speedway in Lights. Every year, the Bristol Motor Speedway hosts a holiday light display, powered by the Tennessee Valley Authority. Three million lights flash across a four-mile area, creating a wonder…

By Courtnee Turner Hoyle: Some people are lucky enough to have stacks on stacks. I have bags, on bags, on bags. Did you sing it? If you heard the song in 2011, it’s likely you did. Don’t worry. I won’t tell anyone. As a good Southern girl, I learned to keep any useful thing. In…

By Courtnee Turner Hoyle: When I was young, my deeply southern grandfather referred to the meal around noon as lunch or dinner, but almost everyone I know says that dinner is the evening meal. I adjust my references for each person, as when I say “dinner” and they consider it to be supper time, they…

By Courtnee Turner Hoyle Could I be a good southern girl without my Farmer’s Almanac tucked under my arm and an arsenal of superstitions? By comparing the patterns of the sun with historical conditions, the Farmer’s Almanac has been a guide for southern families for decades. In my section of Northeast Tennessee, many farmers attest…

I remember beautiful feasts of mashed potatoes, cheesy rolls, and decadent desserts at family gatherings. My grandmothers knew how to cook, and they showed their love for their family with food. At the end of the evening, there was always food left over, and we were all encouraged to grab our favorites and take them…