Favorite #27: Preschool Teacher

Posted on January 20, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Tara Safrit in Lake Tahoe

Tara Safrit in Lake Tahoe

Preschool Teacher: Tara Safrit

            Tara Safrit is one of those people who light up a room, making everyone a little happier for having spent time with her. Only 23, she already knows what it means to sacrifice comfort and security to help others.

            As a preschool teacher over the last few years, Tara has volunteered to work with children in a Christian environment. That volunteer work led to the position of camp counselor at Camp Mundo Vista, a Baptist Camp near Asheboro, NC. Recognized as one of the outstanding leaders during the summer of 2012, she received an invitation to work at a Baptist Church preschool in Lake Tahoe for the 2013 winter semester.

            After much thought and prayer, Tara gave up her teaching position in Kannapolis, NC, leaving the security and comfort of her home to minister to preschool children 3,000 miles away.

            Since her arrival in Lake Tahoe a few weeks ago, Tara has been posting photos on Facebook of different activites. Although she looks happy, some of the photos make me shiver. Piedmont, North Carolina usually has a snowfall in the range of a few inches to a foot. Lake Tahoe has snowfall that often is in the range of five feet or more.

            Although Tara’s commitment is to stay in Lake Tahoe for five months, I’m sure the  friendships she makes and the children’s lives she touches will last a lifetime.

            Tara, because of your sacrifice and service to others, you are my choice for favorite person of the week.

            If you would like to write Tara, her mailing address is:

            Shipping: First Baptist Church, Tara Safrit 390 Fairway Dr. Tahoe City, Ca. 96145

            Mailing: Semester Missionary Tara Safrit P.O. Box 7433 Tahoe City, Ca. 96145

           Do you know someone who has sacrificed in service to others? Leave a comment, message on Facebook, or email dicysm@yahoo.com

            Thanks,

            Dicy

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Favorite #26: Inspirational Blogger, Sharla Shults

Posted on January 14, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Inspirational Blogger, Sharla Shults

Inspirational Blogger, Sharla Shults

Inspirational Blogger: Sharla Shults

            If you’re looking for an uplifting, inspirational blogger, then stop by and visit Sharla Shults. Words of encouragement and inspiration can always be found on her Catnipoflife blog, while historical elements important to American culture can be found on her Awakenings blog.

              Graduating from Troy State University with a math and science degree, Sharla has been inspiring and motivating students to think outside the box for most of her life . For that reason, it’s easy to see why her blogs are written in a style that inform as well as motivate and inspire.   

            Not only does she research her topics, but Sharla routinely includes current technology to showcase the material. During the week of January 11, 2013, Sharla used an interactive question and answer format about freedom in America. This blog post could make a great catalyst for teachers to open up discussions on the topic of freedom, not only in America, but around the world.

             I discovered Sharla’s blogs last year through a writer’s group on LinkedIn.com. Since then, I have come to realize what a kind and caring person she is, always willing to give advice and help in any way she can. That includes sharing stories on Facebook, tweeting messages, and suggesting blogs on topics and trends.

            If interested in reading uplifting, inspirational blogs about history, education and life, then check out the following links:

           http://catnipoflife.wordpress.com

         http://awakenings2012.blogspot.com/2013/01/getting-around-our-country.html

 

          More of Sharla’s writings can also be found on Storylane.

          Congratulations, Sharla. You are my choice for blogger of the week because not only do your blogs inform, but they motivate and inspire, as well.

            Do you have a favorite blog?  If so, leave a comment, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com

            Thanks,

            Dicy

 

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Favorite #25: New Author

Posted on January 7, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
A Boy's Best Friend

A Boy’s Best Friend

New Author: Garrett White

            As an author, it’s always exciting to see someone publish for the first time. Those who have published before know the hardest part of the process isn’t the writing, but the rewriting, the editing and the waiting.

            Recently, Garrett White, a student I had in elementary music class published his first children’s book.  Now in his early twenties, Garrett has been passionate about writing for many years.

            This passion began when Garrett told the elementary school librarian he was concerned about the lack of books for boys. He said there were a lot of books for girls, but not many for boys on “boy stuff.” The librarian, pondering for a minute, said, “Well, Garrett, why don’t you write a book for boys?” Taking the librarian up on her challenge, Garrett decided he would do just that and so began his journey as a writer.

            Before that day, if someone had asked Garrett what he loved, he would have said hunting and his dog, Buster. Even before kindergarten, it wasn’t unusual for him to be out hunting with his dad. When it came time to write in his journal at school, Garrett naturally wrote about these experiences.

            His high school teachers and later college professors began to take notice of his talent for writing, encouraging him to publish. This past year, Garrett did just that. His book, A Boy’s Best Friend is a story about his first beagle, Buster Junior Christmas. The story showcases a love of the outdoors, inspiring others to love it, too.

             Although Garrett’s challenge originally was to write a book for boys about “boy stuff,” girls will enjoy this story as well. After all, who doesn’t like a good book about a boy and his dog?

            Congratulations, Garrett.  You are my favorite person of the week not only because of your passion for writing, but also because of your commitment to a challenge that began so many years ago.

            If you would like to read more about Garrett and his book, A Boy’s Best Friend,  check out the following Salisbury Post link:

          http://www.salisburypost.com/article/20130103/SP05/130109899/0/SEARCH&slId=1

            Do you have a desire to write a book? What would it be about? If you would like to leave a comment on my blog, register first, or leave a message on Facebook, or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy   

 

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Favorite #24: Family Traditions

Posted on December 30, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
A visit with Santa

A visit with Santa

Family Traditions

             Christmas is such a beautiful time of year not only because of decorations, but also because people seem to be in a good mood, happy to be spending time with family and friends making memories.

            In the photo, my friend, Michelle, is making memories with her sweet little dog, Molly, by visiting Santa. When she sent me this photo, it was so cute, I couldn’t help but smile and knew I had to share it on my blog. I’m sure Santa was prepared with a few doggie treats, but either way, it looks like Molly fell totally in love with him.

            Through the years, families have celebrated Christmas in different ways with traditions and customs often passed down. For my family, Christmas has always included some kind of program at church. When my daughters were growing up, they sometimes had speaking parts or solos. I have to admit many times I was more nervous than they were, but that, too, became part of the memory.  

            A couple of weeks ago, another friend, Sue, shared favorite Christmas memories from her childhood. She said one of those happened when she woke up on Christmas morning to see the ground covered in snow. Not understanding why there were sled tracks everywhere, but no footprints, her mom and dad explained the tracks were made the night before by Santa’s sleigh. To this day, she doesn’t know how that bit of magic happened.

            The traditions and memories we make not only at Christmas time, but all through the year, help keep us connected to previous generations, while building bridges to the next. Because of the importance to family dynamics and relationships, I’m choosing family traditions as my favorite thing this week. 

            More favorite family Christmas stories can be found at the following Salisbury Post link:

           http://www.salisburypost.com/article/20121222/SP05/121229834/0/SEARCH&slId=2

          Do you have a favorite family tradition? If so, register first and then leave a comment on my blog, a message on Facebook or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com.

 

            Thanks,

            Dicy

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Favorite #23: Carolina Lily

Posted on December 24, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Carolina Lily: A Fun Place to Shop

Carolina Lily: A Fun Place to Shop

Carolina Lily: A Fun Place to Shop

            Carolina Lily is a circa farmhouse nestled in a country setting at 1375 Kern Carlton Road, just off of Long Ferry Road in Salisbury, NC.   This idyllic setting is home to a business that inspires the beautiful and artistic side of a person’s personality through picnics, tea parties, workshops and craft shows. A shopper can also leisurely browse to their heart’s content in two separate cottages filled with treasures for all occasions.

             It seems fitting that Carolina Lily was chosen for the name of this business because the buildings and grounds are beautiful, with just the right touch of free spirit that can be found in a wildflower. For those who may not know, the Carolina Lily wildflower was designated the NC state wildflower in 2003.

            Following Carolina Lily on Facebook is especially fun because from time to time different contests are held where fans are asked to vote. For example, in October different people and organizations made scarecrows that could be seen about the property sometimes leaning up against a tree or sitting on a stump. Photos of the scarecrows were placed on the Carolina Lily Facebook page where fans could vote for their favorite. The winner later received a cash award.  

            With the hustle and bustle of life, especially at Christmas time, it’s nice to have a place where one can go, slow down, shop and enjoy the view. It’s also nice that a business such as Carolina Lily has their after Christmas sales before Christmas.

           Carolina Lily, because of your vision and contributions to the community throughout the year, you are my pick for favorite business of the week.

             To learn more about the activities and events Carolina Lily has to offer, check out their website at the following link:

             http://www.carolinalily.com/

            If you have visited Carolina Lily and would like to share your experience, register first on my blog and then leave a comment, message on Facebook or email at dicysm@yahoo.com

            Thanks,

            Dicy

 

 

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Favorite #22: Growing Pains Family Consignment Shop

Posted on December 17, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Growing Pains Family Consignment Shop

Growing Pains Family Consignment Shop

Growing Pains Family Consignment Shop

            If you’re looking for a great place to shop for books, jewelry, odd pieces for decorating your home and or gently worn clothing for your family, then Growing Pains Family Consignment Shop is the place for you.

            A family owned and operated business, Dale and Earl Newman opened Growing Pains twenty years ago in Salisbury, NC. Through the years they have grown so much,  they made the move to a new location at 122 S. Main St. in Salisbury a few months ago.  Not only do they have a larger space, but their new shop  located in historic downtown near the square is bright and cheery.

            When I stopped recently, as always I was greeted with a warm, friendly, “Hello,” and, “Can I help you?” After about thirty minutes of shopping, I went to the check out happy with my new found treasures. I totally understand why Growing Pains was voted the #1 consignment shop in Rowan County for two consecutive years by readers of the Rowan Magazine.

           If you would like to learn more about this shop and what they have to offer, including how to bring in items for consignment, check out the following website:

            http://growingpainsfamily.com/

            Congratulations, Growing Pains Family Consignment Shop! You are my choice for favorite business of the week because of your shopper friendly atmosphere, variety of items and your bright spacious new location.

            Do you have a favorite consignment shop? If so, leave a comment, message on Facebook, or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com

            Thanks,

            Dicy

 

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Favorite #21: Faithful Friends

Posted on December 10, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Two-month old lab puppie

Two-month old lab puppies

Faithful Friends: Dream to Reality

            Faithful Friends, a no-kill cat and dog rescue shelter located at 220 Grace Church Rd., Salisbury, NC was built to rescue homeless cats and dogs in Rowan County and help them find their forever home. Opening March 2012, the rescue shelter relies on donations and fundraisers to provide money for expenses.

            I had the privilege of being a vendor at one such fundraiser at the F&M Trolley Barn in Salisbury, recently. Having a common goal, everyone had a fun day. Even the three two-month old lab pups seemed to enjoy themselves. I was told they were later adopted. Yeah!

            I was especially impressed with three unselfish young ladies in seventh grade who had a booth next to mine, selling items such as wallets and handbags they had made from duct tape to raise money for the shelter. Many customers stopped to watch them as they made new creations. 

            If you have the opportunity to visit the Faithful Friends facility, you’ll see many volunteers caring for the animals. Some volunteer to walk the dogs on the beautifully landscaped grounds of the rescue shelter, while others bath or feed them as needed. Don’t worry about the cats, though, because they are well taken care of, too. They even have a wonderful closed-in outdoor porch where they can take sun baths. 

            Shannon Moore, a volunteer for Faithful Friends said if folks want an extra special way of helping during the holiday season there are Angel Wish trees up at the facility and also at some local businesses, including the Stitchin’ Post and the Farmhouse Restaurant.

            Congratulations, Faithful Friends. From dream to reality in just a few short years, you are my pick for favorite place of the week.

            Read more about Faithful Friends and how the girls got involved with this facility by checking out the Salisbury Post link:

         http://www.salisburypost.com/article/20121207/SP01/121209784/0/SEARCH&slId=1

            You can learn more about Faithful Friends and their upcoming events through their website:

         http://www.faithfulfriendsnc.org/

           Remember, you can share this info with your friends on Facebook by clicking the button at the bottom. Hopefully, more will learn about the great work that is being done for homeless cats and dogs at Faithful Friends.

        http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

 

 

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Favorite #20: B&P Antiques

Posted on December 2, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Bob, Pat and Rascal, the dog

Bob, Pat and Rascal, the dog

          B&P Antiques: a friendly  place to shop 

 I’ve never been one to love shopping for shoes, or pocketbooks, but I do love buying furniture. Not the expensive stuff, just odd pieces to fill an empty corner or two. When I saw there was a new antique store in town, it didn’t take long for me to check it out.

            B&P Antiques is located in Spencer, NC on Salisbury Avenue in  the same building that for many years was known as Lomax Hardware. The first time or two I stopped to browse at the antique store, I saw several things very reasonably priced I liked. Knowing I didn’t have a place for them, I left empty-handed. The owners, Bob and Pat Schmidt understood and said maybe I would find something the next time.

            Sure enough, the third time I went into the store, jackpot. I found a small table and two chairs that were just right for a spot in front of my living room window. I can now sit and write at my table sipping on a glass of iced-tea, taking occasional glances out the window at the birds.

            I have enjoyed my visits to the antique store not only because of the variety of things to choose from, but also because Bob, Pat and their dog, Rascal, always have a friendly greeting. Rascal, a mixed poodle often gets up from his resting place to meet new customers at the door. Not only a friendly dog, but cute, one day while petting him I said I wouldn’t mind taking Rascal home with me. Bob in his quiet manner, said, “That dog saved my life.”  Looking up surprised, that’s when I heard the rest of the story.

            One night when Bob and Rascal were out walking, Rascal suddenly stopped and wouldn’t take another step.  Bob couldn’t figure out what was wrong, so he kept on walking. When Bob took the next step, Rascal jumped, taking the bite of a copperhead across his right eye. Picking up the dog, Bob ran two blocks to his car. Rascal was hospitalized for ten days, with it taking another couple of weeks for him to fully recover.

             You can read more of Bob and Pat’s story through the Salisbury Post newspaper link, learning how even with eight brain surgeries, Bob still leads a productive and fulfilling life.

http://www.salisburypost.com/article/20121130/SP05/121139979/0/SEARCH&slId=1

            Congratulations, B&P Antiques in Spencer, NC. You are my pick for favorite business of the week.

            Do you have a favorite local business? If so, I’d like to hear from you. Leave a comment by registering at the bottom of this post, leave a message on Facebook, or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com.

Thanks,

Dicy

 

 

 

http://www.dicymcculloughbooks.com

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Favorite #19: Miracle Farm Homestead

Posted on November 27, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Fun at Miracle Farm Homestead

Fun at Miracle Farm Homestead

Miracle Farm Homestead

                Miracle Farm Homestead is a little farm just outside of Mocksville, NC.  The owners of the farm, Joey and Hope Cline believe in a simple way of life and giving back to their community through volunteer work. Always willing to help others anyway they can, they are teaching their two children that same kind of work ethic as well.

                During the growing seasons throughout the year, Miracle Farm sells organically produced crops to those wanting safe, healthy foods. Understanding the importance of preparing food fresh from the garden to the table, Hope uses her skills to teach others not only ways of preparing healthy food, but also how to freeze and can for consumption later. She offers other homesteading classes depending on the need and demand. For those not familiar with the term, “homesteading,”  it is a way of life where one strives to be self-sufficient.

                I enjoyed my visit to this farm a few months ago, and in typical fashion of helping others, the children were more than happy to pose with my books, Tired of My Bath, Tired of School and Tired of Being Different. The dog, Pepper, didn’t seem to mind either.

                 I’m thankful there are farms like Miracle Farms, not only willing to go the extra mile to make sure food is safe to eat, but willing to go the extra mile to help a neighbor.  Congratulations, Miracle Farm Homestead! You are my pick for favorite place of the week.

                If interested in learning more about this farm and what they have to offer, check them out on Facebook at Miracle Farm Homestead.  You’ll be glad you did.

 

                Thanks,

                Dicy

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Favorite #18: Patterson Farm

Posted on November 18, 2012 by Dicy McCullough
Having fun on the Patterson Farm cow train

Having fun on the Patterson Farm cow train

Patterson Farm Fun

            One of my favorite places to visit is Patterson Farm in Mt Ulla, North Carolina. A family owned farm, something’s happening there almost all year long. The Patterson family enjoys not only growing wonderful produce, but also educating the next generation on what it means to run a farm and grow crops. “Throughout the year Patterson Farm grows produce, including tomatoes, strawberries, pumpkins, bell peppers and poinsettias.”

            Educational tours take place throughout the school year as well as during the summer. It’s nothing unusual to see children learning about the birds and the bees, followed by a lesson on how to plant green beans. Before leaving for the day, children usually meet a few new friends in the petting zoo, including the Patterson Farm mascot, a silly old goat, named”Frosty.”  

            It’s obvious looking at the photo how much fun Patterson Farm can be, even for employees. The four ladies riding the cow train work at Patterson Farm and love their work so much they often relax together at the end of a busy day.  If you look close enough, you’ll see even Frosty managed to get in on the fun, finding a seat at the back of the train with Millicent Hoffner. Millicent has cared for and nurtured Frosty since he was born and thinks of him as just a “big kid.”

            If you visit Patterson Farm in the spring, grab a bucket for picking your own strawberries in the strawberry patch. If you visit in the fall, finding just the right pumpkin to take home is always fun. Whatever time of year you choose to visit, don’t forget to stop at the petting zoo, not only to feed the animals, but also to get a wet kiss from Frosty.

            Although the farm is closed for the winter, now’s the time to mark your calendar for a visit next spring.  

            Congratulations, Patterson Farm. You’re my choice this week for favorite place to visit.  

                  Do you have a favorite place you like to visit that’s near your home town? If so, leave a comment on my blog, a message on Facebook or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com. If you’re having trouble leaving a comment, remember to scroll down and register first.

            To learn more about Patterson Farm, check out the following link:

            http://www.pattersonfarminc.com/

            Thanks,

            Dicy

 

 

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