I’m Honey Norris, a spirited Maltese with a heart as big as her bark, and I’m wagging with excitement to share how my mom, Missy Norris, along with her compassionate friends from Lovin’ Life in the Smokies, Gatlinburg Rotary, and Keep Sevier Beautiful, united for a pawsitively impactful civic event. Our mission? To restore the natural beauty of White Oak Flats Cemetery, a historic gem nestled in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg.
It was a day filled with sunshine, teamwork, and a shared love for our community. Together, we rolled up our sleeves (well, they did; I was left at home to protect the house from BooBoo, our resident black bear). I cheered Mom on from there with enthusiastic barks) to clear the cemetery of trash and natural debris. It’s no small feat what a group of dedicated humans can accomplish when united by a common goal. By the end of the day, we had collected and bagged over a dozen bags of trash, leaving the cemetery looking pristine and honored once again.
This event wasn’t just about cleaning up; it was a testament to the spirit of community and the power of coming together for a common cause. As a dog, I see the world through a lens of simplicity and joy. The happiness I feel when I see my surroundings cared for and respected is immeasurable. And let’s not forget the treats for a job well done (a crucial part of any clean-up event, if you ask me).
I’m proud of my mom, Missy Norris, and every single volunteer who lent their paws and hands to make this day a success. Through their actions, they’ve shown that love and respect for our environment and heritage are values that unite us all. So, here’s a bark-out to my fellow Gatlinburg residents and visitors: let’s keep this momentum going. Whether you’re two-legged or four-legged, every effort counts toward keeping Gatlinburg beautiful.
Remember, it’s not just about cleaning up; it’s about loving life in the Smokies and preserving its beauty for generations to come. So, let’s all be like Honey Norris: keen, caring, and ready to lead the pack towards a cleaner, greener future.
Woof and love, Honey Norris
