“On Sarvis Mountain, as everywhere, stories tightly bound together remain each teller’s own. Eastern Kentucky’s parochial and progressive characters honor and defy stereotype, living interesting, human lives.”

“Growing up as I did just down the street from Gov. DeWine’s family home, I share with him (as well as many of you) the very special experience of community that comes from having spent my formative years in the village.”

“A yellow-bellied sapsucker sounds like a made-up name — like a great-crested fad gadget, but I shall bow to greater knowledge, even though the ever-useful ‘Field Guide to Dumb Birds of North America’ is at my right hand.”

“While Muggins’ story is now one for the ages, her life as a captive bear in the public eye, from her Canadian origins to her tragic end … is one we shouldn’t forget.”

“I now feel like walking Archie rather than just hiding under a pile of tissues while watching Crufts dog show. I hope the little Jack Russell terrier wins best in show; it’s a very sweet little firecracker of a dog.”

“As a scientist in Britain, I would often busily spend the day not understanding anything at all, failing to get reproducible data, breaking things and swearing. I would often do all of this in the dark, as I used light-sensitive chemicals.”

“Walking a dog in these conditions is deadly. Whilst Archie may only weigh 15 pounds, he can go from 0–60 in seconds and exert the force of a complete team of sled dogs.”

“A very common and significant part of British life, the cheeky pint plays a key role in keeping people sane during trying times.”

“As we drift through the wilderness that is this time of year, I have a little time to reflect. Archie and everybody else are asleep, all the pots are clean, and I’m working on my second cup of tea.”

“I’ve been writing this diary for two years now. Putting my thoughts down has been enjoyable, and documenting this time of my life is kind of fun. I’m slowing down.”