House Mountain Hike #204, 11-29-2025: Why Were Two Young Men Carrying a Fallen Tree? What Did I Do After the Hike? (published 12-1-2025; article #539)

Introduction

This Appalachian Irishman prevailed over yet another hike, his 204th, on his beloved and nearby House Mountain State Natural Area. Last Saturday afternoon, from 1:10 to 3:33 PM, I reveled in two hours and 23 minutes in the woods. The temperature was in the 40s Fahrenheit, and the sky turned from mostly sunny to cloudy, an indication of the rain that started around 9 PM.

On the previous day, Friday, 11/28/2025, the crisp, clear, and sunny weather was better for hiking, despite the gusting wind. Instead of hiking, my wife and I attended the Cherokee Lady Chiefs' basketball game, 12:20 PM start time, at Grainger County High School. The youngest daughter of my youngest brother and his wife is on the team. The Lady Chiefs defeated South Greene, 64-32! We enjoyed the game and time with family.

Continuing now with this 82nd entry in the Hiking Topic Section, I will highlight memorable moments along the hike, answering the burning question, “Why were two young men carrying a fallen tree?” Afterward, for inquiring minds, I will answer the query, “What did I do after the hike?” All in all, it was a good “man day” for this 65-year-young feller!

Hiking Up and Down the East Trail

This section divides into the hike up the east trail, time at the upper-middle bluff, and the hike back down and out on the same east trail. Usually, I hike up the west trail, which is more challenging. For this hike, however, I wanted to “go east, young man, go east!”

Hiking Up: Two Young Men Carrying a Fallen Tree!

After making a parking spot for my 2006 Frontier, I started up the connector trail at 1:10 PM. Choosing east this time, I started trekking up, down, and around in the low-lying section of the trail. The east trail is one mile from the base to the ridge. The relatively easy lower section takes up about seven-tenths of that mile. The final three-tenths with the switchbacks are challenging.

Not too far along into my hike in, I paused to allow a group of about ten young folks in their 20s to pass on their way out. Amazed, I saw two young men carrying across their shoulders a six-to-eight-foot-long section of a fallen tree! Now, I have seen some bizarre things on House Mountain, such as young women hiking in the mud wearing flip-flops. I have seen snow form and fall within clouds on the ridge. Most interestingly, on a Resurrection Sunday (Easter) afternoon hike, I saw a young man hiking in a suit and tie. The encounter is memorialized in my 4/13/2009 entry. Before this hike, however, I had never seen anyone carrying out a fallen tree!

Of course, I had to ask, ”Why are you guys carrying out a section of fallen tree?” One of the young men, shifting his section of the tree slightly on his shoulder, replied, “It's a souvenir!” Yes, he was grinning!

Everyone needs a hobby. This website is a hobby of mine. I have a small collection of House Mountain rocks, souvenirs from my 100th hike (Tuesday, 12/31/2013, in a plaque), my 125th hike (Sunday afternoon, 10/18/2015), my 150th hike (Sunday afternoon, 4/29/2018), my 175th hike (Wednesday, 12/30/2020, article), and my 200th hike (Sunday afternoon, 3/23/2025, in the 3/26/2025 article). I have never thought about hauling out a section of a fallen tree as a keepsake! What's up with young people these days?

At the Upper-Middle Bluff

At the highest and very eroded upper switchback, never try getting around the rocky erosion by crawling up the steep and leaf-covered wooded area west of the switchback! I tried, failed, slid back down, and then climbed over the eroded switchback. That mistake took several minutes. Finally, I reached the ridgeline at 1:54 PM. A trail marker and bench are at the location.

Turning right or northeast, I relished the fairly level ridge trail that leads to the upper-middle bluff. The hike takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your speed. Before reaching the bluff, the mostly sunny sky became cloudy.

Once again, despite the clouds, I delighted in the view from that bluff. A minute before I started hiking back down and out on the same east trail, I photographed the following view looking northwest from the bluff:

A husband, wife, and their dog were just leaving when I arrived. I had the thoughtful solitude of the bluff to myself. Of course, the Lord was with me.

Hiking Down and Out

Well, the time was 2:25 PM, and I had plans for after the hike. So, I reversed course and hiked back down the same east trail.

Being overly cautious due to my surgically reconstructed right kneecap and right heel, I took my time descending the upper switchbacks. Once unencumbered from them, hiking along the remaining seven-tenths of a mile in the lower area was easy.

Interestingly, while still hiking carefully down the upper switchbacks, the same husband, wife, and dog, who were leaving the bluff when I arrived, were catching up to me from behind. I let them pass, explaining my carefulness and my “bionic” joints. Once in the lower area, however, they paused, and I caught up to them. Conversing briefly as I passed, I continued on at a normally quick pace. The couple and their dog never did catch back up to me.

I touched the trail marker near the picnic shelter at 3:33 PM, marking the end of my hike. Two hours and 23 minutes in the woods was better than not having been there!

What Did I Do After the Hike?

Once back at my truck, I called the “long-suffering” Mrs. Appalachian Irishman to let her know that I was on my way to her father's house. She had my brush and branch cutting tools in our 2012 Sentra. I was ready to do some cutting up, no kidding!

My wife's two sisters did not want to cut up with me, but my wife did. A wooden bridge crosses the creek at the back of the property. Years ago, my father-in-law and I built that bridge. Several scrub trees, vines, and branches from larger trees needed to be cleared.

My wife and I started trimming and cutting just after the collegiate football game in Knoxville between the Tennessee Vols and Vanderbilt Commodores had started. Well, my wife picked up and piled the trimmings and cuttings. I was the only one who was cutting up, again, no kidding!

After finishing up and saying goodbye, we returned home in separate vehicles. The aforementioned football game was at halftime by then. The score was tied, 14 to 14.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, the Vols went down in an embarrassing defeat on their home field. The final score was Commodores 45, Vols 24. As I said to my wife after the game, “Sometimes, birds do fly backwards north for the winter.” Years ago, when birds always flew south for the winter, the Vols could easily beat Vanderbilt. It seems that the tables have turned.

All in all, the hike plus clearing brush for my father-in-law was a good “man day.” Hey, I am still a 65-year-young feller!

House Mountain Hike #203, 10-23-2025: Only My Second Hike This Fall? Why? (published 10-24-2025; article #538)

Introduction

Why had six weeks and two days (44 days) passed since my previous hike on House Mountain on Tuesday, September 9? The 9/10/2025 article and embedded audiovisual episode shared the experience of acorns popping like popcorn and bouncing like ping-pong balls! I have had the itch, but I couldn't scratch it.

Welcome, dear reader, to the 81st entry in the Hiking topic section. First up, I share the brief audiovisual clip from near the west bluff of House Mountain. Next, I explain why yesterday's hike was only my second one this fall. Finally, my comments about the hike include one photograph. The conclusion encourages turning right and going straight on the true hiking trail, in the woods and in life.

Episode from the West Bluff

First up is today's 40th episode of Appalachian Irishman – Podcasts (YouTube). The almost two-minute clip is titled House Mountain Hike 203, 10-23-2025: Only My Second Hike This Fall? Why? (pub. 10-24-2025; ep. 40). Standing near and above the west bluff, I tried to capture the sound of the rather strong wind that cooled the sweat from my tee-shirt. It was refreshing! Please pause to listen to the wind and my brief comments before continuing to read the rest of this article.

Why Was This Only My Second Hike This Fall?

So, why was this only my second hike this fall? I will encapsulate the details.

After the morning rain on August 13, I notice a small water stain on the kitchen ceiling. Our new roof was installed in April, mentioned in the 4/9/2025 article. Finally, on September 15, our roofing contractor sent a very capable man to inspect the roof. He caulked a vent that was missed last April. That fixed the problem.

As an aside, my annual physical examination was on Friday, September 19. Dr. Kalpesh D. Parikh and his staff at Corryton Medical Center provided excellent care. The examination and test results indicated that I am a healthy and fit 65-year-young man.

The major hindrance to hiking was our prolonged transition from Comcast/Xfinity for Internet, television, and home phone service. From September 20 to October 9, I was tied up in a technical labyrinth, from which I finally escaped. Of course, my dear wife also endured the transition. The switch to AT&T fiber Internet, DIRECTV, and Magic Jack home phone will save about $55 a month, which is around 20% less than Comcast/Xfinity. Several days of excellent hiking weather found me tied up in far too many technical details. The switch, however, was worth the trouble.

Another hiking hindrance was my three trips to my new dentist earlier this month. My teeth were x-rayed, cleaned, and inspected on October 1. They were fine. Unfortunately, however, on Friday, October 10, I chipped off a small section of the top back part of my lower right front tooth by biting into a plum seed! On Columbus (Indigenous Peoples') Day, my new dentist patched the tooth. The patch lasted one day. Thus, on Wednesday, October 15, my dentist repatched my tooth with a stronger patch. That fixed the problem. No, I have not bitten into any more plums! They are off the menu for a while.

Tucked into all the above, my wife and I enjoyed getting together with my youngest brother, his wife, and their two daughters during Heritage Days in Rogersville, Tennessee. On Sunday afternoon, October 12, we drove up to visit with them for a while. Also, we checked on the homeplace and visited with the neighbors who live across the road. Further, last Saturday, the 18th, we visited with friends in Morristown, Tennessee.

The Hike

Let's move along to yesterday's hike, shall we? After morning chores and my noon meal, without a plum, my 2006 Frontier took me to House Mountain. The parking lot was almost full. The weather was sunny, in the 60s Fahrenheit, and rather windy. Despite recent rain, there was no mud along the trails.

At 1:50 PM, I started hiking up the west trail. A few hikers passed by as they hiked down. Wearing a tee-shirt, I sweated enough. After hiking up the four lower switchbacks and through the low area, I started up the six upper switchbacks at 2:05 PM. Eight minutes later, from the highest switchback, I started west along the trail below the ridge.

Touching the marker rock at 2:25 PM, I was at the west bluff. After cooling off in the breeze, I took the following photograph at 2:33 PM.

The west bluff is centered and below me in the image. The fall colors were not yet at their peak. The view, however, was remarkable as always. A couple of minutes later, I recorded the audiovisual episode previously referenced. The cooling breeze was refreshing!

Tempted to hike east across the ridge to the upper-middle bluff and down the east trail, wisdom dictated that I hike back down and out the west trail. I still needed to shop at the Tractor Supply and be home in time to peel taters for supper.

I hiked down the same trail from 2:40 to 3:28 PM. Pausing at times, I spoke briefly with other hikers who were hiking down or up the trail. One gentleman, who appeared to be in his 50s, was ahead of me just below the ridge, where the original trail leads up. Uneducated hikers, however, have cut out a steep downhill section. I helped the confused man follow the right trail that leads up and across.

Quickly storing my ball cap and canteen beside me in my truck, the next stop was the Tractor Supply, before returning home to peel taters!

Conclusion

I still have the hiking itch! Hoping that no new hindrances come along, I look forward to many more hikes this fall! Lord willing, I hope to enjoy several hikes this winter and next spring as well.

The gentleman, confused by the cut-out trail and appreciative of my guidance to the correct path, serves as another analogy of staying on the right trail in life. Those who keep turning right and going straight in life come out at the right heavenly destination, which is everlasting.

Are you, dear reader, staying on the right trail in life? I hope so. If you are not, may I help you find the right path? You are welcome to email me, using the Contact Form on this website.

Georgia Bulldogs and Tennessee Vols Yard Flags? A House Divided by College Football! (published 9-26-2025; article #537)

Photograph by M. Fearghail on Tuesday, 9/23/2025, at 2:52 PM.

Introduction

Why are yard flags for both the Georgia Bulldogs and the Tennessee Vols displayed in our front yard? Also, who bought and set up the Tennessee flag? Those burning questions are answered in this nineteenth entry in the Sports topic section!

Further, I will briefly review the Georgia-Tennessee college football game that was played two Saturdays ago. In short, Georgia was lucky. The conclusion offers a spiritual note on a house divided.

A House Divided

My Georgia Bulldogs yard flag debuted in the article from 10/2/2023, which reviewed Georgia's victory over Auburn and Tennessee's win over South Carolina. It was also displayed in the article from 10/6/2024, which contrasted the five-point losses by Alabama and Tennessee to unranked opponents with Georgia's win against its ranked opponent.

Before the 2018 college football season started, I had grown tired of the coaching-carousel changes at Tennessee. Further, I was frustrated by the hyped-up expectations that were unrealized. The Tennessee Vols became my second favorite Southeastern Conference (SEC) team. Considering other SEC options, I chose the Georgia Bulldogs as my favorite SEC team. (I always respected the program, but I hated to see Tennessee lose to them.) Since 2018, I would rather see the Vols win instead of lose, unless they are playing Georgia.

My long-suffering wife, Mrs. Appalachian Irishman, has put up with my 2018 transition. Her favorite team, however, remains the Volunteers. She also puts up with my verbal commentary to the unhearing television when watching Georgia football. When Georgia and Tennessee play each other, I try to tone down my rhetoric. My wife sits nearby and groans silently.

Yes, we are a house divided during college football season! Now into my eighth season as a Georgia football fan primarily, Saturdays have been far more enjoyable. Despite improving, Tennessee continues to disappoint my wife and, to a lesser extent, me. I don't have enough decades left in life to see if Tennessee can climb back into the powerhouse status that it had in the 1980s. To contrast seasonal wins and losses, especially since 2018, see Sports Reference: Georgia Bulldogs School History and Sports Reference: Tennessee Volunteers School History.

Thus, our house divided during college football season now has two yard flags. My Georgia flag has been around since the start of the 2023 season. That was after Georgia's back-to-back College Football National Championships the previous two seasons.

The Tennessee flag arrived three days ago. The shipping label had my wife's name on it. I bought a pole, secured it to the ground, and placed the flag on it. Did my wife actually buy the Tennessee yard flag? Take a guess! Yes, she thanked me.

Saturday, 9/13/2025, Georgia-Tennessee Game: My Review

As stated in the introduction, Georgia was lucky. Georgia (#6 AP) was fairly equally matched against Tennessee (#15 AP), the home team. The kickoff was at 3:30 PM. My wife returned home from visiting her father and sister nearby at some point in the first quarter.

During the game, I told my wife that I thought Tennessee would beat Georgia for the first time since 2016. The teams were evenly matched. The Vols were better on offense and especially defense than I thought they would be. Georgia's offensive line must improve pass protection, and their defense has to get better in pass coverage. Tennessee impressed me. Georgia played well enough to win their first SEC road game.

Georgia won in overtime, 44-41. For online reviews of the game from both teams, I read “#15/15 Vols Fall To #6/3 Georgia In Overtime, 44-41.” UTSports, by Eric Trainer, 9/13/2025.

The first paragraph states, “No. 15/15 Tennessee pushed No. 6/3 Georgia to the brink but came up just short, falling 44-41 in overtime on Saturday in front of a sellout, Checker Neyland crowd of 101,915 at Neyland Stadium.”

I also reviewed “Bulldogs Caught A Break, And Ran With It.” Georgia Dogs, by John Frierson, 9/14/2025. The article quotes Georgia's head coach Kirby Smart as saying, “All in all, a great game, but I almost feel like I have to apologize, because I don't think we should have won that game. I thought they outplayed us in a lot of ways, but that's the way it goes.”

Was my wife disappointed that Tennessee lost by three points in overtime? Yes. Was I disappointed? No. I was glad to see Georgia get a tough SEC road win. Tennessee, however, impressed me. Georgia disappointed me to some degree. Still yet, Saturdays are more enjoyable when Georgia is my first team and Tennessee is my second favorite team!

Go Dawgs! Go Vols!

Conclusion

As a brief aside, please assist me in recommending the renaming of the Southeastern Conference to the Sun-Earth Conference! The conclusions to the articles from 12/10/2023 and 12/17/2024 call for the rebranding. Five of the sixteen teams are not in the southeast! Any team under the sun and on the earth could join the renamed SEC.

Returning to a house divided, there are parallel accounts in the Gospels when Jesus said that a kingdom or house divided cannot stand. Please read Mark 3:20-30, Matthew 12:22-37, and Luke 11:14-28. Jesus responded to the Pharisees’ accusation that he was casting out demons by Satan's power.

Our house is divided humorously during college football season. Otherwise, my wife and I as Christians are united in Christ. We follow him, his word, and the biblical worldview.

Any family or nation that does not unify and stand together in Christ is divided and will fall eventually. What do you say, dear reader? Do I hear an amen?

House Mountain Hike #202, 9-9-2025: Acorns Popping Like Popcorn! (published 9-10-2025; article #536)

Introduction

Sandwiched between two great hiking weather days, yesterday's 202nd hike on House Mountain, despite being a cloudier and more humid day, turned out to be rather entertaining! Welcome, fellow outdoors enthusiast, to the 80th entry in the hiking topic section.

In the woods, have you ever heard and seen so many acorns falling at once that they sounded like popcorn popping and looked like ping-pong balls bouncing? Well, I did yesterday afternoon.

First, however, I want to tell you about the hike up and back down the west trail with three photographs. Afterward, I will present the audiovisual clip of hundreds of acorns on one section of trail. I captured the sound of a few that fell. Of course, I interjected a few humorous comments.

The Hike with Three Photographs

After tending to household chores in the morning, cleaning up, and eating my noon meal, my 2006 Frontier took me to the nearby House Mountain State Natural Area. The overcast morning became a mostly cloudy early afternoon. Humid, the temperature was in the mid-to-upper 70s Fahrenheit. Eight vehicles were in the upper parking lot at our arrival.

Hiking Up the West Trail

From the covered picnic area, I started hiking up the west trail at 1:38 PM. Two young ladies were coming down as I started hiking. Only two other hikers descended past me as I hiked up. Otherwise, I was alone, except God was with me, the rest of the way up, at the west bluff, and on the hike back down and out.

At 1:52 PM, I had trekked up the four lower switchbacks and through the lower area. The six upper switchbacks were ahead of me. Eight minutes later, I reached the sixth switchback. From there, it took 12 minutes to hike along the narrow and rocky trail to reach the west bluff. I wiped away buckets of sweat from my forehead.

Acorns were strewn in several places along the trail. At certain sections, they were falling and popping off the ground and rocks all around me. I kept thinking that one would hit Mike's ball cap that was on my head.

At the West Bluff

At 2:12 PM, I touched the rock near the west bluff to check my time. Thirty-four minutes from base to bluff was reasonable for my first hike this fall in the humid warmth. After all, I am 65 years young and in youthful condition, despite the 35 pieces of surgically installed metal in my left shoulder, right knee, and right foot. (This was my 66th hike on the mountain as a “bionic man.”)

After cooling off and taking a leak toward Knoxville, at 2:23 PM, I took the following photograph:

Just before the photograph, I stood on the rock outcropping. The view looks southwest toward Knoxville. As you can tell, it was mostly cloudy at the time. The distant clouds looked like they were drawing up water vapor, a sign of potential rain coming.

Wisdom dictated that I hike back down on the same west trail up which I had hiked. I didn't think it would rain, but I didn't want to chance it.

Hiking Back Down the West Trail

Around 2:25 PM, I started hiking back down and out the same west trail. Wouldn't you know it? The clouds thinned out, and the sun started shining!

The following photograph, taken at 2:33 PM, shows a section of trail just below the ridgeline.

The view looks northeast. That is a narrow trail on a steep slope. Lean toward the mountain, and watch your step!

Once I started down the six upper switchbacks, I saw and heard oak trees dropping acorns again. The sound was like popcorn popping. The view was similar to ping-pong balls bouncing.

At the third upper switchback, I had to stop to take the following photograph at 2:53 PM:

Again, the view looks northwest. Do you see the light yellow-green acorns along the trail? If you can count how many you see, please leave a comment. I didn't try to count them, since they were still falling, popping, and bouncing all around me!

Audiovisual Clip of Acorns Popping Like Popcorn!

Minutes later, at the same switchback, I decided to try to capture the sound in an audiovisual recording using my semi-intelligent (smart) phone. Of course, I had to interject some humor.

Appalachian Irishman – Podcasts (YouTube) presents House Mountain Hike 202, 9-9-2025: Acorns Popping Like Popcorn! (published 9-10-2025; episode 39). In just under two minutes, I tried to catch the sound of acorns popping on the rocks and ground nearby. Did I hear at least two? How many do you hear?

As I said in the episode, if you want some acorns before the squirrels and deer get them, hurry up to House Mountain, and bring a bucket!

Conclusion

Today's weather so far has been mostly sunny and less humid. Why didn't I hike House Mountain today and collect acorns? I had to publish the previously referenced audiovisual clip and write this article. Of course, Wednesdays mean washing white clothes and towels. Being retired, I wind up doing many of the household chores, since the “long-suffering” Mrs. Appalachian Irishman is still working.

Will I hike House Mountain tomorrow, taking along a container to fill with fallen acorns? We will see! Until then, remember, even an hour and 46 minutes in the woods yesterday was better than not having been there!

Y'all take it easy and keep turnin' right and goin' straight out there. Ya hear?

Recommending Jared King TV on YouTube! (published 9-8-2025; updated 9-18-2025; article #535)

Photograph from 10/29/2010 by M. Fearghail at Panther Creek State Park. It is the fifth of eight photographs from the park that are included in the article Four Hikes in Four Days! (published 11-14-2010).

 

9/18/2025 important update: King Fest that was scheduled for this Saturday, 9/20/2025, from 12 to 5 PM at Panther Creek State Park has been postponed!

Donnie Laws and Jared King plan to reschedule the occasion for a larger venue. The location, date, and time are being determined. For more details, please watch on YouTube “King Fest Cancelled for September 20th,” Donnie Laws: East Tennessee Outdoors, 9/17/2025, and “KingFest POSTPONED: We Gotta Get A Bigger Place!!!” Jared King TV, 9/17/2025. Apparently, more folks were planning to attend than the pavilion could accommodate.

Introduction

Greetings, dear reader, to the 36th entry in the Appalachia-Northeast Tennessee topic section! Almost 15 years ago, I photographed the above pristine snapshot of a secluded area at Panther Creek State Park. The location was along an inlet on the Cherokee Reservoir from the Holston River. The 1,444-acre state park is located about six miles west of Morristown, Tennessee.

Why do I include a photograph from Panther Creek State Park in this article that recommends the Jared King TV channel on YouTube? Well, read on, fellow Appalachian heritage enthusiast, and I will explain!

From Donnie Laws to Jared King

The article from 4/4/2023 recommended Donnie Laws: East Tennessee Outdoors on YouTube. Further, his YouTube channel is mentioned kindly in the 7/28/2022 article about Cades Cove and in the 9/13/2023 entry that explains how to pronounce “Appalachian.” Finally, Donnie Laws' channel is one of eight entries under the “Appalachian Heritage” section on the lower right side of this web page.

I stop by at times to listen in to what Donnie Laws has to say. Last Tuesday evening, I happened to catch his episode “King Fest 2025: Come Meet and Talk with Us on September 20th at Panther Creek State [Park].” Donnie Laws: East Tennessee Outdoors (YouTube), 8/27/2025.

In the episode, Donnie Laws mentioned that Jared King will be with him on Saturday, September 20th, at Panther Creek State Park. The comment that I left that evening was, “Lord willing, I hope to meet you there. The mountains are calling me. I must go soon!” Later that day, Donnie Laws replied, “Awesome, my friend. Thanks for sharing. Be careful on the road. God bless you.”

Recommending Jared King TV (YouTube)

The next day, I was pleased to find and check out Jared King TV on YouTube! From McMinnville, Tennessee, Jared King's channel started on 5/7/2020. As of last Saturday, his channel included 636 videos, had almost 81,000 subscribers, and had just under 9,500,000 views.

The channel description (slightly redacted) includes the following:

APPALACHIAN STORIES & BEYOND! Hey folks! Come sit a spell while I tell some old-timey Appalachian stories, from witches and haints to just how times were back in the old days in the mountains and all around the world. Yep, ya never know what I'll do next! God bless you and your kin, and have a good'n.

Later that day, I enjoyed a few laughs while watching “Appalachian Humor: Sayings and Expressions (FUNNY).” Jared King TV (YouTube), 1/11/2025. In just over three and a half minutes, Jared King shares and explains several humorous Appalachian sayings. The description states, “You'll learn about the unique and insightful ways Appalachian people express their love and values for family. You'll be surprised by the wisdom and humor found in their sayings, many of which are passed down through generations.”

Afterward, I left the following comment:

Jared King, greetings! I happened to catch Donnie Laws' episode about you and him coming to Panther Creek State Park on the 20th of this month. Lord willing, and the creeks don't rise, my wife, the long-suffering Mrs. Appalachian Irishman, and I hope to meet Donnie Laws and you then! In the meantime, keep on turnin' right and goin' straight out there. Ya hear? In a few days, I plan to publish an article on my website that encourages readers to tune into your channel. Yep, I enjoy tossing out a favorite Appalachian phrase when I'm around city slickers! I enjoy the expressions on their faces. Of course, as an educated country boy, I explain what I meant in city slicker terminology!

Jared King's reply later that day was as follows (slightly redacted):

Well, howdy, brother! Sure is good to say hi to ya, and I definitely hope to get to meet y'all at Kingfest! Also, thank you so, so much for spreading the word about my channel! Good folks are getting hard to find nowadays, so it's always a blessin' to meet good folks like y'all. Educated or not…a good ole Appalachian feller…is a good ole Appalachian feller in my book! God bless y'all, and have a mighty good'n!

I believe that Donnie Laws and I are of the same generation. Jared King is from a younger generation, but he upholds the good in Appalachian heritage. Further, and more importantly, Donnie Laws and Jared King, as Christians, seem to uphold the biblical worldview.

This country and the world could find wisdom (along with good humor) from the good in Appalachian heritage. Ultimately, every soul should seek and find the “pearl of great price” (Matt. 13:45-46) by following the biblical worldview that leads to salvation and everlasting life.

For these reasons, this article highly recommends Jared King TV on YouTube! Sit a spell, and tune in to watch and listen for a while. It may do your heart and soul some good!

Conclusion

This article encourages you, dear reader, to check out Jared King TV on YouTube. Further, as a shout-out to Donnie Laws, please also visit his previously referenced YouTube channel.

To readers in northeast Tennessee, especially near Panther Creek State Park, you may want to set aside some time on Saturday, 9/20/2025, from about 12 to 5 PM, to meet Donnie Laws and Jared King at King Fest. The location will be the Smallman Pavilion. (You will see the name and location if you click the link, scroll down, and hover over the pavilion on the lower right side of the screen.)

Further, the Panther Creek State Park Map opens an image, which you should be able to enlarge to 300% to see the Smallman Area. Additionally, Google Maps: Panther Creek State Park can help with driving directions. Practically, from Highway 11E just west of Morristown, Tennessee, turn northwest onto Panther Creek Road (Highway 342). You will see the BP service station. After winding along the road for a while, turn right (northeast) onto Panther Creek Park Road. The welcome center will be up to your left. A stop there could be informative. Otherwise, continue to wind down along Panther Creek Park Road. After crossing the small bridge over Panther Creek, you will drive uphill for a while. Finally, once on the ridge, you will arrive at the Smallman Pavilion. Restrooms, picnic tables, cookout grills, and parking are also available. The surrounding views are remarkable.

Lord willing, and if the creeks don't rise, the long-suffering Mrs. Appalachian Irishman and I plan to be at the Smallman Pavilion in Panther Creek State Park on Saturday, 9/20/2025, around 12 PM. I look forward to meeting and shaking hands with Donnie Laws and Jared King, both true Appalachians who uphold the good in Appalachian heritage. Also, friends and family members, whom I have told, are planning to stop by that day.

If you live nearby, I hope to see you there! Please share this article, and encourage everyone you know to attend. A great time should be had by all!

Sketchers or Skechers? Where's My Skechers? (published 8-26-2025, article #534)

“Person drawing shrimp on iPad,” by Wu Yi, 12/16/2018, on Unsplash. Free to use under the Unsplash License.

Introduction

Greetings and welcome to the 123rd entry in the Humor topic section, dear reader! Are they sketchers or Skechers? You know what sketchers are. So does the Merriam-Webster Dictionary: sketchers. But what are Skechers? Why is the “s” capitalized, and what happened to the “t”?

Last Saturday, I happened to hear a radio commercial advertising “Where's My Skechers” (without the question mark). I was amazed! The commercial inspired this article.

Parents, did you know that you can use your semi-intelligent (smart) phones to locate your children if they are wearing a certain type of shoes? It's true, believe it or not!

Sketchers or Skechers?

As the above image depicts, sketchers are individuals who have a talent for sketching artwork. I am not much of a sketcher. The 10/22/2223 article shows my limited talent from the late 1980s. Ratman still lives!

What, however, are Skechers (without the “t”)? Apparently, they are shoes. Mrs. Appalachian Irishman even has a few pair in her closet. Skechers, an international company, is headquartered in California.

How was Skechers named? I had to find out. The company website offers no clues. Searching online, I came across “Skechers rose from humble Manhattan Beach beginnings to $8 billion in annual sales.” South Bay History, by Sam Gnerre, 3/1/2024. The author claims the following (italics added for emphasis):

The name “Skechers” came from two younger Greenberg family members, who suggested it from the term “skecher,” which they said meant an energetic kid who couldn’t sit still.

Around these parts, young'uns with a lot of energy are said to have “ants in their pants.” I don't suppose that naming a brand of kids' shoes “Ants in the Pants” would be good marketing, or would it? Imagine the slogan “A-in-P Shoes for active kids!”

A reader asks, “How many pair of Skechers shoes does your long-suffering wife have?” Well, I don't recall, and I don't wish to dig around again to find out. The article from 1/8/2025 had the correct total of all her shoes at the time. A few pair are Skechers. Since then, my wife traded out an old pair of sandals for a new pair. I assume the total is still the same.

Where's My Skechers?

I don't own a pair. “Where's My Skechers” is the brand of shoes for children, according to Skechers: Kids: Collections & Features: Where's My Skechers. The web page states, “Each pair [of Where's My Skechers for kids] is designed with a secure, hidden pocket under the insole that perfectly fits an Apple AirTag®, so you can always know where their favorite shoes are.” Of course, according to Skechers: Where's My Skechers, the Apple AirTag® is not included.

So, what is an Apple AirTag? The web page shows it to be a small device that you can attach to about anything (e.g., keys, billfold, etc.). You must first install a software application (app) on your semi-intelligent (smart) phone. The application connects to and tracks the AirTag wherever you attach it. Just don't lose your semi-intelligent phone!

But wait! There are software applications (apps) that you can install elsewhere (i.e., another semi-intelligent phone, a computer, etc.) to find your semi-intelligent phone! At least that's what I discovered on my semi-intelligent Android phone in the settings application. Of course, the location in my phone is turned off. Why do I want Android, Google, or whatever else to track my comings and goings? The Lord and I know. My wife knows what is relevant. All of these tracking applications and satellites do not need to know, and they can go away!

Conclusion

I am 65 years young. My mind and wit are still sharp. During my childhood and teenage years, my parents supervised my activities and locations in person. When absent, they relied on other trusted adults to track my activity. My shoes did not have a hidden device that allowed my parents to track my locations stealthily in any manner. At first, we had a party line, rotary-dial phone. Later, we moved up to a single-line, push-button phone. There were no semi-intelligent phones back then.

Currently, states are cracking down on children using their semi-intelligent phones in schools. One source of several is Ballotpedia: State policies on cellphone use in K-12 public schools. Tennessee is a recent state that is doing so.

What about so-called “smart watches” and “smart glasses”? Yes, these contraptions exist also. Generally, state policies that restrict the use of semi-intelligent phones by school-aged children also restrict these.

What is a workaround? Savvy and “with it” parents can buy their children a pair of Where's My Skechers and an Apple AirTag. Behind their children's backs, they can install the AirTag in the shoes, download some application on their semi-intelligent phones, and track their children's whereabouts every second.

Whew! Why not simply trust your children and the adults that supervise them when they are in school? That's what my parents did, and I survived. Of course, parents could raise their children correctly and trust them. What a novel idea!

As a child and teenager, I was what is now called a “free-range kid.” I often explored the woods around the house until dark. My mother had to call to me from the porch to get me to come home for supper.

Last Saturday, why did I have to hear a radio commercial advertising “Where's My Skechers” (without the question mark)? I don't know. It inspired this humorous article. I hope it gave you a laugh or two.

Shock Wave Therapy: Review of My First Session (published 8-21-2025; article #533)

X-ray of my left shoulder on Monday, 6/27/2016, at the office of Dr. Scott T. Smith, Knoxville Orthopaedic Clinic. The image, along with those of my right knee and foot, is included in the 3/21/2021 article.

Introduction

Greetings, dear reader, and welcome to the 18th entry in the topic section that I have dubbed My Bionic Life - since 3/29/2016. For background, the category started with the 8/26/2016 article. The above image is one of six x-rays from 2016. X-rays of my right knee and foot are found in the article from 3/21/2021.

During my 36-day hospitalization in 2016, my initial left arm recovery only allowed me to sit and move my left hand in circular motions on a table as if I were wiping it. After a while, I could raise my left arm straight out and parallel to the ground. I couldn't lift it farther up.

After discharge and over the course of multiple outpatient therapy sessions, twelve deep tissue massage treatments (from 7/5/2019 to 5/15/2020), ongoing chiropractic care, and my personal determination, I have improved my left shoulder, right knee, and right foot to near normal conditions. I, however, still feel differences. I want those joints to feel as they did, before I almost died when the uninsured driver failed to yield to my right of way.

Those three joints, however, are still works in progress. For example, before Tuesday, my still-recovering left shoulder continued to trigger trouble in my neck and right shoulder. These are called crossover effects.

After a routine adjustment last month at the Chiropractic Clinic of Arthur James Poisal, DC, my chiropractor and friend, he suggested that I try shock wave therapy for my left shoulder. Dr. Poisal has recently added the therapy as a service to patients.

Two days ago, after my routine adjustment, Dr. Poisal administered his first shock wave therapy treatment for my left shoulder. The purpose of this article is to explain in layman's terms what shock wave therapy is and to review my first treatment. The conclusion recommends shock wave therapy as a treatment for muscle injuries and soft tissue damage.

What Is Shock Wave Therapy?

First, what is shock wave therapy? Rest assured that it does not involve electrical shocks! Instead, shock wave therapy is similar to acoustic wave therapy, both of which are considered pulse wave therapies. These are noninvasive procedures.

In shock wave therapy, the doctor guides a handheld applicator that transmits what are called extracorporeal (outside the body) acoustic waves into targeted areas of damaged tissue for precise healing. Guiding the applicator, the doctor locates and focuses on specific areas of damage. One session lasts about 15 minutes. Improvement is practically instantaneous. Only one session may be required; however, an additional session or two may be needed for complete results.

Searching online for “shock wave therapy: medical reviews,” I found the following three articles that provide further practical information:

“The evolving use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in managing musculoskeletal and neurological diagnoses.” Mayo Clinic: Medical Professionals: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2/4/2022

“What Is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?” WebMD, by Amber Felton, medically reviewed by Sabrina Felson, MD, 10/13/2024

“What Is Shockwave Therapy?” WebMD, by Taylor Wendt, medically reviewed by Sabrina Felson, MD, 10/14/2024

Other medically reviewed online articles are found by searching for “difference between acoustic wave therapy and shock wave therapy.” My understanding is that, since the 1990s, shock wave therapies have been used efficiently to treat kidney stones and gallstones. More recently, shock wave therapies are being used effectively to accelerate the normal recovery of injured or damaged joints, muscles, and tissues. The process diminishes pain, soreness, tightness, and other discomforts.

My First Session: Review

Moving into the practical realm, I wish to describe and review my first shock wave therapy session two days ago.

First, Dr. Poisal, with help from his capable assistant, examined the range of motion in my normal right shoulder and my surgically reconstructed left shoulder. I could not raise my extended left arm vertically and parallel to my body without pulling it forward, not straight up as I can do with my right arm. Muscles around my left shoulder were tight. I was used to it.

Next, the doctor applied ultrasound gel to both shoulders and my neck. Using the small, handheld device, Dr. Poisal touched the round head of it to my skin and gently moved it around the gelled areas. I could feel and hear when the device located damaged tissue, but I felt no pain. The acoustic waves, when focused on the damaged tissue under and around the six-inch scar on my left shoulder, felt like sweat bee stings, which were very tolerable. I also heard clicking sounds from the shock wave device. The comfortable procedure lasted about 15 minutes.

Immediately afterward, my range of motion while raising my extended left arm up and parallel to my body had improved greatly! The stretch is now almost exactly like my undamaged right arm. For over nine years, I have gradually been able to improve that left arm motion. On Tuesday, I realized significant improvement. If it were possible without this session, such an improvement could take months.

Before leaving, Dr. Poisal did not think that further shock wave therapy sessions would be needed for my left shoulder. I asked about the therapy for my surgically repaired right knee and foot. I even demonstrated the difference between my normal left foot and repaired right foot by sitting, extending my legs, and turning both feet inward. My right foot does not turn in fully like my left foot does. Further, I continue to feel muscle tightness around the left side of my right foot and the left side of my right knee.

Dr. Poisal recommended that another shock wave therapy session could address the ongoing inadequacies in my right knee and foot. That appointment is set for next Tuesday. Stay tuned, dear reader. I plan to publish another article about that session, Lord willing.

In summary, today is day two since the shock wave therapy treatment for my surgically repaired left shoulder. My left shoulder still feels loose, relaxed, and greatly improved.

Once home on Tuesday, I can only describe the feeling as surreal. For over nine years, my body was accustomed to how my damaged and surgically repaired left shoulder felt and interacted tightly with the muscles in my back, neck, sides, and uninjured right shoulder. On Tuesday, after a few hours of adapting, my body realized how it felt, especially in the left shoulder, before the damage. Finally, after over nine years, my body now remembers how my left shoulder felt before the injury.

Conclusion

If you, dear reader, are dealing with damaged or injured joints, muscles, or soft tissues, this writer highly recommends shock wave therapy.

For viewers in the Knox County, Tennessee, region, you may already know a capable medical professional who provides shock wave therapy treatments. I advise you to reach out to your provider.

If you do not have a medical provider for shock wave therapy, may I highly recommend to you Arthur James Poisal, DC, Chiropractic Clinic (3371 Whittle Springs Rd., Knoxville, TN 37917; 865-687-5700; artpoisalfrontdesk@gmail.com)? Further, Doc. Art, as I call him, has a Facebook business profile, Arthur J. Poisal, DC. The “Reviews” tab includes my 8/19/2025 recommendation. Today, under the “Videos” tab, is found the before and after audiovisual recording from my first shock wave therapy session two days ago. I granted Dr. Poisal and his capable assistant permission to record that clip. It was an honor to be recorded.

Stay tuned, dear reader. Lord willing, I plan to publish a follow-up article about my next shock wave therapy treatment for my surgically repaired right knee and foot.

By the way, I have 25 total surgically installed metal pieces (i.e., rods, pins, and screws) in my left shoulder, right knee, and right foot. See if you can find and count them in my previously referenced 3/21/2021 article.

It will soon be fall, and the start of my fall, winter, and spring hiking season! I am beginning to hear the mountains call me. I will have to go.

What Is AppalachianIrishman.com? Copilot Is Mainly Correct. (published 7-5-2025, article #532)

2/3/2025 photograph by Saradasish Pradhan on Unsplash. Free to use under the Unsplash License.

 Introduction

What is this website, the Appalachian Irishman?

The masthead states, “This public journal and commentary by M. Fearghail started on 3/6/2006. As a Christian, I affirm the biblical worldview and the good in Appalachian-Irish heritage. Articles are archived chronologically by topic and by year and month. Have a cup of coffee and read for a while! My website is free—always. You're welcome to subscribe, contact me, and comment. My wife and I reside in northeast Tennessee. Under 'Authors,' our names include biographical introductions.”

That, however, is one man's opinion. Of course, that one man is me. On yet another hot and sunny summer day, I decided to ask one of those artificial intelligence (AI) platforms what my website is. By the way, I have heard about only three of the eight AI platforms shown in the above image. As a final aside, the conclusion will explain what the acronym AI actually means!

What Is AppalachianIrishman.com?

I know what my website is and its purpose. This website's purpose has expanded over the years. As an enduring legacy, I hope that this platform keeps my written thoughts alive long after I have gone heavenward. Perhaps a younger generational member of the Fearghail clan will maintain and even add to what I have started.

The Answer from Microsoft Copilot

Not wanting or needing to do anything in the hot and humid heat today, I decided instead to ask Microsoft Copilot, “What is AppalachianIrishman.com?”

The following is the answer that the artificial intelligence robot provided:

AppalachianIrishman.com

Overview

AppalachianIrishman.com is a public journal and commentary site created and maintained by M. Fearghail. Launched on March 6, 2006, it offers commentary rooted in a Christian, biblical worldview and celebrates the author’s Appalachian-Irish heritage. The site is maintained from northeast Tennessee by M. Fearghail and his wife.

Content and Features

• Chronological archives of articles dating back to 2006, organized by topic, year, and month.

• Core themes include Appalachian culture, faith, family, freedom, heritage, hiking, history, humor, mission work, politics, religion, and theology.

• Free to read and always ad-free, with options to subscribe, comment, or contact the author.

• Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

• An associated YouTube channel hosts “Appalachian Irishman” podcasts, launched in May 2022.

Community & Miscellany

• The blog frequently weaves personal narratives—family events, local hikes, cultural reflections—with broader reflections on current events and worldview.

• Readers are invited to interact through comments, email, and social sharing.

• A mirror of the blog exists on Blogspot for easier access and mobile-friendly viewing.

Whether you’re passionate about Appalachian life, exploring faith-based commentary, or simply enjoying down-home storytelling, AppalachianIrishman.com offers a rich trove of articles and podcasts from the foothills of Tennessee.

     Sources:
     www.appalachianirishman.com/
     https://www.youtube.com/@Appalachian-Irishman-Podcasts/ 
     https://sur.ly/i/appalachianirishman.blogspot.com/

Review of Microsoft Copilot's Answer

I do believe that Copilot, the complex source code created by intelligent humans, answered the question very well and explained my website accurately. I especially like the final sentence above. That's why I emboldened it.

Thanks, Copilot, for saying that my website “… offers a rich trove of articles and podcasts from the foothills of Tennessee.” I couldn't have said it better myself.

Of course, I wouldn't brag on myself in that manner. As my mother used to say, “Self-braggers are half scoundrels.” Have you ever heard that saying?

Conclusion

This 122nd entry in the Humor topic section is winding down. Now, just what does the acronym AI actually mean? Online, I searched Acronym Finder: AI to find 164 meanings that range from “Artificial Intelligence” to “Associated Investigator.”

Appalachian Irishman (AI) was not included in the list. It should be! The acronym AI can also mean Appalachian Irishman!

Going forward, dear reader, when you hear someone talking about AI, you may think about this website instead of artificial intelligence. If someone asks, “What does AI mean?” You may reply, “Appalachian Irishman.” That's what I do.

This website, however, is powered by real, human intellect, a gift and blessing from God, to whom I am everlastingly thankful!

That's all for now. I think that I will go outside into the low 90s degree Fahrenheit heat to see what Molly, our ten-year-old puppy, is doing. Perhaps I can roust her from her basement “condominium.”