One of the many wonderful aspects of Floyd, is the ready opportunity to interact with animals. During my childhood I learned many a life lesson from experiences with animals-lessons that were usually initiated by my mother, the quintessential animal lover. One of the most endearing stories we kids share about our Mom is when she obtained her first chickens.

Every one of us will reach a pivotal point in life when the decision has to be made to remain status quo, or make a terrifying change. The pressure that today's society puts on what is "successful" and "worthy" weighs heavily in making that decision. I am grateful to be living in Floyd, Virginia where our "society" still values family.