Old Fashioned Days

Mornings start early
on the corner by the five and dime;
stirring the hearts of native born,
as young run along and play.
Old men in their faded overalls,
plant themselves on cedar benches.
From the maple sticks they whittle down,
old debates begin anew.

Gentle hills are nestled near,
above the country hollows.
Traditions live on in the distance,
teaching Appalachian ways.
Through the eyes of old and wise,
life's simplicity is cherished.
Folklore tales are handed down,
recalling the struggles of troubled times.

Mandolins and banjos create sounds,
stirring the hearts of native born.
Tying together both neighbors and kin,
in lively talk and common threads.
Past and present unite in one place,
timeless in beauty and stature. 
Genuine in their customs and grounding,
content in their heritage.