A few words from the writer….

Jomeokee is a small mountain in the foothills of the Blue Ridge. Its profile is distinctive. Due to its geographical setting, it is visible from all four points of the compass from as many as fifty miles around. Hence, its name. The English translation is “Pilot” and in the language of the Saura people who once inhabited the region it was known as “the great guide”. I was privileged to farm a small vineyard near its base for a dozen years. From the highest point of my property, Jomeokee stood almost due west outlined each day against the sky of the setting sun. Its profile dominated my field of view. There, in its presence and the larger profile of the Blue Ridge, I grew, along with my crop, in wisdom if not in stature.

The spirit of that place is centering ideal. Many humans of different races and creeds have shared that ground. I like to think that our collective culture has been guided by our proximity to that small mountain that was always present. I know now that the many blue hours I spent there will live in my memory here, and perhaps beyond, my unforeseeable future.

This site is, I would hope, a testament to whatever I have become and am becoming. For you, the reader, I propose to present some things of interest from music, literature, experience, story and song, that just might aid in turning your attention inward to seek a different reality than the ever-present physical one that calls for and dominates our attention. You may be able to perceive already that I am at heart a storyteller. I want to write as if we are having a conversation rather than overwhelming you with narrative. Knowledge alone is not sufficient for the act of living well.

Please consider visiting this site where I will offer regular periodic narratives to stimulate our minds in, hopefully, creative ways.

I believe fervently that every kind of encounter with our fellow humans is the key to a better life. Since we cannot be physically be together, this feels like one way to do that virtually.

Please join me in this unfolding endeavor.

Always in Goodwill,

Clay

Clay Hipp was born and raised in the South. His formative years growing up in a rural mill town gave him two enduring traits: the gift of storytelling and an insatiable curiosity for the world.

An emeritus teacher of business law at his cherished Wake Forest University (and other distinguished institutions), he often refers to himself as a “recovering lawyer” and chronic “generalist”. Some of his favorite accomplishments thus far are being a father, grandfather, and partner to the ineffable Joanie.

When not in his writer’s garret (the dining room table), he can either be found whipping up an exceptional meal for family and friends, lost in a pile of books, or sitting on the front porch—spinning a story or two with neighbors while soaking up the sights and sounds of his beloved little neighborhood of Ardmore. His varied interests include..

Music Lover and Folkie: Devoted to small stages and well-crafted songs

Student of the Wild: Attentive to patterns, seasons, and small wonders

BBQ: Its a noun, not a verb.

Constitution Buff: Still figuring out the American Dream

Wine Aficionado: An aristocratic palate achieved by democratic means

Baseball Enthusiast: Believes in the game but questions the front office

Golf Devotee: Chases par yet still finds perspective

Seasoned Cook: Practiced at the stove, generous at the table

More than seventeen years ago, in a favorite coffee shop, I asked this gracious being, Joanie, what she was reading. That simple question sparked a friendship, and a morning coffee klatch with mutual friends was born.

When the owners of the shop announced they were closing, I asked for her number (for party-planning purposes only) so we could arrange a parting celebration. Our following meet-ups cemented our shared love of people, food, and gatherings are the basis of our continued mutual admiration, love, and partnership. We live together but a walking mile from where we met, in a sweet little neighborhood in North Carolina.

Joanie is my chief cheerleader, steady supporter, and the one who keeps me in line when I misbehave (more often than I care to admit). Sharing a life together has been one of the most unexpected and greatest gifts I could imagine.

You will see her offerings sprinkled into the website on occasion; however, her creative input and assistance with this blog are a constant presence.