Chatham County, NC Blogs

It was a hot one already at 10:30 this morning but Karen had her back and front doors open (with the A/C running?) and there was a lovely breeze flowing through the entire store. And of course there was Chester (I have to remember to get a picture of Chester next time). Chesty is the shop dog and one of the loves of Karen’s life. It makes me giggle because you’ll find Chester laying on an iron bed that’s for sale, on top of pricey Chenille bedspreads - also for sale, complete with free dog hair!!! Now that’s my kinda’ lady - “love me, love my shop, love my dog”!! I go there so frequently and spend so much time there that Karen will now leave me in the shop alone to go get lunch or a drink or help a friend pick out a piece of jewelry at the shop next door! She leaves me to myself to pick through EVERY dish, bar of soap, candle stick holders, and she doesn’t even mind me opening the bottom drawers of armoires and chests to see what she’s stashed below! If I didn’t live so far away, I’d offer to “work” there for her on occassion! I just like being in the presence of the place.

Look at my stash below! At “Fetch” I picked up the two cocktail napkins (pink and yellow) and the three little plates (the one in the back with the little orange and yellow flowers is actually a Homer Laughlin and I got that one “on the house”! Yippie!! The one in the front is a beautiful bone china (that was not a freebie…) and the one on the bottom with the soft orange border was a steal at $3.50. I’ve put the bone china plate on top of the orange-bordered one and it looks smashing! The beanpod soy candle on the bottom has an orange-ish tint to it and it’s sitting on top of the two plates - very pretty and smells yummy (Patchouli - one of my favs). I picked up a second soy candle (Vanilla Coffee) because these guys were on sale at Uptown Nature, a quirky little shop in Carrboro, NC. My DH and I love the soy candles - super scented and VERY clean!!

Lastly, that sweet little china dish with the dainty pink flowers I picked up at Vintage Revival, another great little hidden treasure in Hillsborough. This will find a home in my bathroom cabinet above my sink where it will hold my toothpaste and dental floss (TMI?). Anyway, I thought it would be nicer to have these things corralled in a pretty “container” instead of just laying on the shelf in the medicine cabinet. I know, you’re right, any reason to buy a piece of china…

Of course, a lot more “damage” could’ve been done but I would need money for that! Ha! I can’t wait to get back to work and earning those commission checks again - that’s where our fun money came from. Soon enough, though. Remember, my new job starts Monday! Yikes!!

“Home is not where you live, but where they understand you.” - Christian Morgenstern

It’s occurred to me that rarely do I post anything about my darling husband (DH). It’s time you met…

Mike is a police officer (SWAT team member) with the Chapel Hill Police Department in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is his DREAM job. Michael is a “go-getter”. He is confrontational, he is loud and animated, he is a character and quick witted, he can be overbearing, he is stubborn and determined always to be right, he is an “in your face” kinda’ guy, he has no patience for ignorance, he loves his God, he is controlling, he is a sports junkie and can retain (what I think is worthless) unimagineable amouts of sports “facts”, he aspires perfection at all times in everything he does, he loves education and is always taking classes - in the classroom and/or online, he works hard and all the time, he is the foundation of our little family although he would say that’s not true - that I am, he’s not a “mushy” kinda’ guy but the kinda’ guy who surprises you when you least expect it (a touching note left on the kitchen counter telling me how special I am for the stuff I do for others in my community; telling me how great he feels when he takes a container full of cupcakes to work for the guys that his wife made…). We make each other nuts because we couldn’t be more opposite. But we need each other desperately and love each other deeply.

As most of you know, I’ve been out of work since February 1. This is the third layoff I’ve experienced in my 12 year career of shopping center leasing. I’d decided it was time for a career change and, of course, Mike agreed and was supportive with any decision I made. I can’t tell you the number of resumes that went out or the number of interviews I went on to businesses from the YMCA to retirement living facilities to the United States Postal Service - with rarely a “thanks but no thanks”. With every rejection I fell a little further down the ladder of self respect. But each time Mike was there to first sit with me while I cried and then tell me to get over it and go on to the next candidate. He was also there to scold me when I questioned God’s promise to never forsake me; there were days I’d never felt so alone… And during this entire time, while Mike was working, experienced a difficult surgery and recovery, dealing with me and my moods and discouragement, he was keeping this household afloat - financially more than anything. Somehow, someway he made it work. He was and is our strength.

But change is on the horizon for the Mineers - AGAIN. I have accepted a position with a company based in Morristown, New Jersey. It is an assest management and realty company with strip shopping centers throughout the east and mid-west. I am so grateful for this opportunity but terrified at the same time because I’m right back into this field of employment that is risky, at best, especially during these difficult economic times we’re facing. But I’ve had a heart change about how I’m going to approach this job and I’m prayerful that it will help make me successful and happy. One of the best parts of the job is that I get to continue to telecommute - work from home. How wonderful is that given the price of gas! Additionally, I will be traveling extensively because I’ve been assigned properties in Kentucky (Mike’s home by the way), Indiana, Alabama (Mobile, here we come for some GREAT seafood) and Minnesota (never been to Minnesota - and I won’t be going there in January, February or March either!). Hopefully I can rack up some airmiles and Mike and I can hit some place tropical next year!

Today I get to call the unemployment agency and tell them to stop the checks. Accepting that aid hurt my pride but after looking at the big picture, I’ve worked my entire life and paid into the benefit program and I was entitled to the assistance. I’m grateful it was there for me because it helped get us through these last few months. Today, not different from any other day, I get to tell my husband how much I appreciate his hard work and all that he’s done recently to maintain our home and my spirits and that I love him. We’re a team, you know. And today I get to thank my family and friends for their constant support, well wishes and prayers that “something will come along”. Something did - in God’s time and in His way and as I’ve said recently, I believe I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be…

Today…today’s going to be a good day.

I was “strolling” through blog-land last night and came across a blog in which the author picked a day of the week to write about all the things for which she’s thankful. I thought, what a wonderful idea! I send my thanks to God every day so why not share it with others. So, here is my official, first “Thanksgiving Thursday”. And if I can ever find the blogspot where I got this idea, I will give credit where credit is due.

Feel free to leave comments and share your “wonderfuls” for the day.

1) I’m thankful for my health;
2) I’m thankful for my salvation and the freedom I have to express my thanks for it;
3) I’m thankful for my loving and supportive family;
4) I’m thankful for my home;
5) I’m thankful for my animals and the comedy they bring to this sometimes ugly world;
6) I’m thankful to ALL the soldiers past, present and future and to their families as well;
7) I’m thankful for the rain we’ve had here lately;
I’m thankful for the continued ability to put food on my table, gas in my car and the lights on in my house during a difficult and strectched last 4 1/2 months;
9) I’m thankful for my daughter’s laugh;
10) I’m thankful for my buddies Cathy and Linda!

Yesterday I was sent the URL/link to the Chatham News & Record (http://chathamjournal.net/photos/v/80516relayforlife/) where I could view my Pittsboro Relay for Life team photo taken by photographer Gene Galin. I thought I would share it with you this morning.

I would encourage you to visit the website and take a quick look at all of the photos, most speak for themselves with the emotions clearly seen on peoples faces.

I also want to point out our pink team shirts and share with you how they came to be. I know there is nothing perfect in this world - ESPECIALLY us human beings. But nothing or no one comes as close as my sweet Bran… And that’s not just my opinion as her mom! Brandi runs deep, keeps way too much on the inside. She loves deeply and hard and, although not often thank God, when her heart breaks or aches…well, I’d do anything to make it stop. Such was the case when Deb died this past December. I think as much as Deb’s death devastated Brandi, her heart was hurting for me, because I know how much she loves her Mama. And like me for her, Bran would do anything to assure my happiness.

Knowing that I’d committed to this event, Brandi brainstormed about how she could help, get involved, raise money and make a difference. We talked about many options and agreed a team shirt would be a great idea. Unbeknown to me, Brandi had kept the program from Deb’s funeral which had Deb’s picture on it. She did her research and found a local graphics company that would take on the project and keep the cost reasonable. Brandi shared her idea and the progress with her employer. They were touched and wanted to participate. So, instead of an outright monetary donation they contributed $100 toward the creation and printing of the tees. When it was all said and done, the invoice exceeded that $100 by about $50.00 - which the company graciously waived as their donation to our cause. As it turned out, Amy Daniels of MARZ Graphics and Design, lost her father (he was 41) to cancer. Amy and her team did a wonderful job for us. There is the beautiful picture of Deb on the back along with our team name and Deb’s date of birth and death. And on the front left it says “Pittsboro Relay for Life May 16-17, 2008″. We were a big hit and this will be hard to top next year. Little Bran, put your thinking cap on sweet girl!!!!

Like the completion of my first half marathon a few months ago, this was a life changing event for me. I met new people, made new friends, learned that this dreaded disease touches EVERYONE somehow and… there is good in all of us.

“I find my joy of living in the fierce and ruthless battles of life, and my pleasure comes from learning something.” - August Strindberg

122 pictures from the Northwood and Chatham Central Softball Tournament that was held at the Northwood High School.

Anyone who knows me well knows about my addiction - - - to cowboy boots!! I L-O-V-E them. I have more than I need but not nearly as many as I want. And while I have one “traditional, brown, oval-toed” pair, the rest would be debated by a real cowboy as to the legitimacy of being actual “cowboy boots”. I even have a pair that are Carolina Blue (thank you, Mom!!). And when Mike and I went out west two years ago, I worked extra hard and super fast to wrap up a deal so that I could get my commission check before our trip because I was going to spend the entire thing on - yep, cowboy boots! And I did! And everytime I wear those boots I am (1) reminded of that AWESOME trip and (2) always get complimented because they are so different.

I think the Geraniums love them just as much as I do…

Only 6 days remain until builders start writing contracts for Briar Chapel on Saturday, May 31st!

If you haven’t already met with me and reserved your favorite lot, now is the time to do so. Give me a call today at 919-360-1285 to schedule an appointment.

Perry Harrison School fielded a team for the Pittsboro Relay for Life event this past weekend.
Below is a pictures of the happy participants - “Teachers teaming for a cure”.
Thanks to everyone who participated in this worthwhile event.

Ever since then, it’s like I’ve been in a Flyer red wagon heading down hill FAST!!!! I drummed up my team (okay, I convinced my family to join in) and began my mission of setting monetary goals and a fundraising activity for the night of the event. I made phone calls to my teamates regularly to “check in” and give the necessary pep talk. I asked for their donations to be turned in on a regular basis. I sent encouraging emails to them telling them what wonderful people they are. I cleaned my house feverishly anticipating my company - because all of my teamates are out-of-towners you see. And I baked cupcakes…lots and lots of cupcakes. I baked big ones and little ones. I baked chocolate mint ones, chocolate peanut butter ones, strawberry ones and carrot cake ones. I’ve never baked so many cupcakes in my life. The cupcakes were for our fundraiser at the event. Check this out…

A pretty table setting, don’t you think? We got lots of nice compliments and even sold a few cupcakes! And that’s our tent behind the table and my dad. Instead of a monetary donation, Lee Reddinbow, a friend of my niece’s, went to REI, purchased the tent and sent it down here with Christa for us to use for the night! How generous was that? I don’t know if Lee will ever use the tent again - that’s the kind of guy he is. He saw we had a need and he helped fullfill it. Thank you Lee! Anyway, the tent became a haven for us and the cupcakes when the skies opened and the rain POURED down!!! It became simply comical watching each of us grab a tray of cupcakes or a framed “menu” and head for cover in the tent! Even my dad, God love him, crawled in that tent to help protect our sweet concoctions! And we did this not once but THREE times!!! Obviously, I’m not the sharpest tool in the shed! I insisted, once the clouds parted and the rain stopped, that we set the table - AGAIN - only to have another storm cloud pass and, well, you’re getting the picture! It was like a Lucille Ball act after awhile!!! Oh, where was the video camera??!!

But, eventually, things did dry up and we were able to hear the cash register ring (okay, it was my dad’s modified first aid kit, but, again, you get the idea)!

This was my innaugural Relay. I did not know what I was in store for. I knew the schedule of events and the role of my team and I’d even prepared myself for a lump in my throat. I was not prepared enough.

These are the cancer survivors we recognized in our little community that day. Cancer has no regard for race, sex or age… I fell apart here and the event hadn’t even been officially kicked off. I cried tears of happiness for my grandparents for both of them are survivors. I cried tears of anger because Deb did not survive and I cried tears of disbelief and unfairness when I saw the three young children in this group of incredible people. I cried tears of complete sadness because my husband’s mother did not survive - and I know how much he misses her. And I cried tears of joy because I had my husband there with me to comfort me and I had my family there to share this time with me and because maybe, just maybe, by being a part of this tiny little event I might help make a difference one day.

And how appropriate is God’s timing? Sunday after the Relay was Homecoming at my church. This is when we celebrate those church members and community friends who have gone home to be with God. It’s a time when extended family members join us in prayer and fellowship in our little country church. And I was so fortunate to have my family with me at this event, too! Here’s my gang… oh how I love them…

I have so much more to share - memories we made, pictures we took - but I’ll save some for later. Instead, I thought I’d close by saying prayers do get answered, our lives can be fulfilling especially when doing things for others, things don’t always make sense, there’s good in everyone, tragedy strikes, sadness creeps in, a new day brings new opportunity, EVERYTHING happens for a reason and in GOD’S way and time and HE is truly the leader and in complete control. When I moved to Bear Creek, North Carolina 6 years ago this July, my life changed. For that, I am eternally grateful. I believe and accept that I am where I am supposed to be - physically and spritually and I don’t want to be anywhere else…my cup runneth over…and so does my heart…

Would you like to have the opportunity to select the home of your choice in Briar Chapel before the public grand opening? If the answer is “yes,” please let me know and I will get you an invitation to attend a private, LIMITED RELEASE PREVIEW EVENT that’s being held on May 31st.

In order to prepare for this special event, we need to get together to pick a floor plan and location that’s right for you. Once we’ve done that, we’ll start the pre-qualification process with an approved homebuilder and get a priority number, which will allow us to choose an appointment time for the preview event.

Time is running out, so let’s get started right away. Please call me at 919-360-1285 to get the process started.

If you are interested in Briar Chapel, now is the time to build! Prices are only going to go up, and the best lots won’t last long.

I would love to show you all of the great floor plans available to choose from, and introduce you to all that Briar Chapel has to offer. Give me a call today at 919-360-1285 so we can prepare for the upcoming pre-sales event in less than two weeks. Priority numbers are being given out, so time is of the essence.

The Chatham County Board of Education held a regular session on Monday, May 12, at the central office in Pittsboro.
The Safelle Janitorial Services Company presented its quarterly awards to Bennett School custodial staff and its employees.
Susan Little, Chief Finance Officer, presented a memo to the Board regarding a 2007–2008 Contract for Audit Services. The Board [...]

It’s like being topless…or worse yet, like leaving the house without my lipstick on!!! Aaaggghhh…a post without pictures. But you see, we are without our satellite at home for now and, as such, I’m having to mooch wi-fi service from whatever coffee house I can get into and don’t have my laptop set up (yet) to talk to my digital camera - thus, no photo.

I really do LOVE living in the country but the battle we have with satellite (Internet and television) service is a constant one and one of sometimes great expense - although when one of us is unemployed any expense is a great expense! Because our dish is out of warranty, imagine that, we have to pay for the technician to come out and readjust the monstrosity! He’s supposed to be here Thursday. We’ll find the money somewhere…we can’t be ‘disconnected’!

So, while it may be a little quiet here on my “site” for the next day or two, know that all is well, Mike’s feeling better and getting healthier every day, I’m still on the job hunt (had another interview yesterday, say a prayer), I’m getting ready to run the Torch Run for Special Olympics with the Chapel Hill Police Department and we’re heading into the final leg of Relay for Life!!! My “team” will be arriving here between Thursday night and Friday afternoon and I’m so excited. No doubt I’ll have plenty of pictures to share so stay tuned.

[ May 12, 2008; 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm. ]
CHATHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
PITTSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
WORK SESSION

Central Office Board Room
Monday, May 12, 2008

Open Session — 6:45 p.m.
(BOE members will likely vote to adjourn to a closed session to discuss privileged [...]

[ May 15, 2008; 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. ] The Perry Harrison School PTSA has invited the candidates for the Board of Education to come to the school for a “Meet the Candidates” Forum.  All five candidates running for the BOE will be present.  The forum will take place in the multipurpose room on Thursday, May 15 from 7-8:30 PM.  Questions will be submitted [...]

Mervin Jenkins, Principal of Horton Middle School, has resigned from Chatham County Schools effective May 31. Jenkins, who is in his second year as at Horton, is leaving to take a position in Atlanta with AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) as Eastern Division Assistant Director. The district hopes to name an interim principal during the [...]

The Chatham County manager’s proposed budget includes a 5.5-cent property tax rate increase to 67.2 cents per $100 of assessed property value to pay for growth. The proposed tax increase, a 9 percent jump in the tax rate, would provide 1.2 cents for school needs.
The proposed 2008-09 Chatham County budget provides:
* Full funding of school [...]

Orchids Dead, Orchids Live
…notes written the first of May.
Motivation comes slowly, and then it races towards you. That’s what Spring ‘08 has been for us. First the idea that I might have two classes back to back on Wednesdays was daunting - and then the requisite number of couples did not appear for the [...]

• developers have preserved more than 50% (900 acres), including steep slopes, stream beds, significant tree stands, and several historic structures found on-site
• it is the first (and largest) community in the Triangle to require homebuilders to comply with the rigorous new home construction requirements and third-party testing of the N.C. Green Building Initiative, creating high performance, healthier homes with measurable cost savings for residents and contributing to an improved quality of life
• contrary to earlier rumors, Briar Chapel will NOT include a golf course
• 30 percent of the homes face south to increase efficiencies and solar capabilities
• the clubhouse will be LEED-certified
• the developers convinced Thompson Contracting, who is handling site development, to use biodiesel in some of its earth-moving equipment
• 64 units will be made available for affordable housing
• Newland Communities has already donated over $1 million to our local Habitat for Humanity
• all stone used in Briar Chapel is native to the site, including its beautiful masonry walls, roadbeds and trails (but excluding the gravel in the parking lot at the Info Center)
• meandering, bifurcated roadways were designed to maximize the tree canopy for the native birds
• 24 miles of trails connect the entire community
• a $10 million sewage treatment plan was constructed allowing for spray irrigation and the use of reclaimed gray-water irrigation for all open space
• the developers have created and funded a foundation that will support local artists and various green initiatives (more on this later)

I could go on, but I think you get the point. Although no housing development is perfect, I hope you’ll agree that Newland Communities is striving to be responsible and make a positive difference in the world by creating enduring, healthier communities.