Then again, a traumatic layoff, this time for my husband. After months of searching he was offered a job in Minneapolis, MN. I jumped at the chance to go to the big city, this small town girl craved the excitement and opportunity it suggested. I worked for two years with American Express as a Marketing Manager in their financial products division. I did love the big city, plus they have Mall of America, what red-blooded woman wouldn't love that? However, I missed the friendliness of NC. I missed having family close by and being able to drive to the mountains or the coast for a quick weekend getaway. I also missed having my two favorite seasons, fall and spring.

My husband was sent to Iraq in 2005 with the Minnesota National Guard, and I jumped at the chance to move back home with my family for a while. So I returned to Rutherfordton, had our beautiful baby girl, and haven't looked back since. I always knew when I had kids I wanted to return so they could be raised with the morals and values that were instilled in me growing up in Rutherford County. Those things are sometimes hard to find in larger cities. Personally, they can keep their big city living, I'll settle for Shake Shop! -Local reference, if you are ever in town you have to stop in and get a burger

I know after reading about my thrilling journey, you are just dying to talk to me and hear more about our wonderful area. Don't worry, just fill out the form below and, as we say in Rutherfordton, I'll get back withcha!