7:45 I’m awake, I need coffee. What do I wear for this? Yoga pants and a t-shirt … sure, sounds good. Everyone in my house is still asleep, um bye guys!
9:00 Arrive at Michael J. Smith Airfield, Beaufort. Oh gosh, I hope I’m in the right place. Why have I never been down here before? Oh, there’s a sign for hang gliding; that was easy.
9:02 I walked through the office to a picnic table under a shaded tree. My first thought … are all these people hang gliding today? Answer: YES! Even that 11-year-old: YES! Second thought these people are so cool, laid back, excited, and not even a little scared. This is the perfect scenario for my nerves. They’ve been sky diving too? YES!
Ok, I’ve got this.
9:18 A voice comes over the walkie that sits at the end of the picnic table. “Hey, is anyone there? If so, pick up the pink walkie with the seashell” We reply, “Yes, there are people here, over.” Moments later we meet James, a super high-spirited guy from Chattanooga, TN. We go over paperwork, sign waivers, get basic information about the flight as well as receive our US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Assn., Student / Affiliate Membership.
9:25 Golf cart escort with James to the center of the field where to gear up for the flight. I get to go first? Oh my gosh, I’m so excited at this point.
9:28 Gearing up and introductions from Richard and Chris. Chris is the pilot of the Bailey-Moyes Dragonfly aircraft. This thing is so basic-looking compared to planes I’ve seen before. It has an open cockpit and looked like it had pretty basic controls and this will pull the North Wing Freedom 220 hang glider up to 2,000 feet and let us go.
Richard, oh sweet kind Richard. He is amazing. This guy’s job is to allow people to experience a bird’s eye view of Beaufort and Beyond. Amazing, where do I sign up?
9:33 You ready, Mimi? Let’s GO!
9:34 -9:43 My flight lasted 10 minutes. I moved my head the entire time. I wanted to absorb as much as I could, knowing that it would be over way too soon. I’ve always known that I was lucky to be born and raised in this area but when you see it from the air, it’s like art. I could see almost to Emerald Isle, thanks to the clouds that had lifted for better visibility, Fort Macon, Beaufort Waterfront, Shackleford Banks – all were in a second’s view of one another. The wind and air temperature were about 10-15 degrees cooler, it felt amazing! Once we reached 2000 feet, Chris released us.
In that moment, I was jarred. I’m really soaring. It was just me, Richard, and some metal and canvas. I was surprisingly ok with this fact. A moment later Richard asked, “Do you want to steer?” Um, yeah! He tells me to place my hands on both sides and pull my weight forward gently. This motion takes us slowly and steadily down. My next instruction is to shift and pull my weight to the left to steer us left then right slightly to even us out.
I did it! I flew that darn thing! Richard gives me kudos for staying calm, he said that was the hardest part, getting people to remain calm. Thanks, Richard. You were a great coach.
As we got closer to the ground, I was completely overwhelmed with emotion. Everything about this experience was positive. Every single encounter was positive. I just went hang gliding! Oh gosh, I’m going to have to do this again! And with that thought, Richard brought us safely and perfectly to the earth.
The first thing I did was lay on the ground, just lay there. The contrast between the two feelings was the ultimate high. Parting from Richard, I insisted we hug. We both laughed and he wished me good luck on my blog. My response was “don’t get too excited, I’m not much of a writer” His reply was better “Well I’m not much of a pilot” Touché, sir, touché.
For more information about hang gliding with Richard & Chris check out the website.
Help Keep NC Homeowners Insurance Rates Down
/in Real Estate /by Amanda GrayHelp Keep NC Homeowners Insurance Rates Down
The NC Homeowners Alliance works to protect the interests of property owners in the NC General Assembly, while increasing awareness of issues and potential legislation that directly affect consumers’ most important and often most valuable investment – their home.
The Alliance supports common-sense measures that are geared to improving the everyday lives of all North Carolina residents. In order to increase the state economy and defend the rights of its citizens, the General Assembly should support legislation that will protect the rights of the millions on NC property owners and encourage more home ownership while keep home and property insurance rates fair and affordable.
If you’d like to help take part in their grassroots efforts to protect the rights of property owners and help keep homeowners insurance rates down, join the NC Homeowners Alliance. You won’t get spammed, as the Alliance is committed to sending information strictly deemed relevant and interesting. They’ll keep you updated on legislation that will affect your bottom line, such as new insurance rate rules, mortgage interest deduction, and local development initiatives. They’ll also let you know about opportunities to meet with legislators, advocate on their behalf, and make your voice heard in regards to your home and its insurance costs.
Action Needed!
With help from the NC Homeowners Alliance last year, they were able to convince Insurance Commissioner, Mike Causey, to block an unreasonable homeowners insurance rate hike. The increase would’ve brought the proposed average to over 18%. The Comission heard the outcry and responded to only a 4% increase for most homeowners. We need your help to do it again!
The latest proposal from insurance companies would increase rates by an average of 17.4 percent, but for some, consumers the increase could exceed 30 PERCENT!
Please let your voice be heard and tell Commissioner Causey to SAY NO to the insurance companies’ request. You can easily send an email to Commissioner Causey. You’ll just need to input your information, and a pre-drafted E-mail will send in just a few seconds. If you’d prefer to craft your own message, you can email it to commissioner@ncdoi.gov or drop a letter in the mail to:
NC Department of Insurance
Commissioner’s Office
1201Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1201
If you need a quote for home, auto or boat insurance, the dedicated team at Bluewater Insurance is there to provide that for you. You and your family deserve undivided attention with all questions thoroughly answered, and that’s the level of service that Bluewater Insurance strives to provide. Learn more by visiting Bluewater Insurance today.
2017 NC Seafood Festival
/in Vacation Rental /by Guest Author2017 NC Seafood Festival
It’s time for our 2017 NC Seafood Festival recap. Good food, good friends, and good fun! We somehow manage to make it to the NC Seafood Festival every year; each year is better than the last.
About the NC Seafood Festival
The North Carolina Seafood Festival is a not-for-profit organization of Carteret County citizens and businesses in Morehead City. Recognizing the importance of seafood to eastern North Carolina, Seafood Festival, Inc. organized to develop and conduct a festival every year. This festival is held every year on the first weekend of October to promote the seafood industry’s positive social and economic impact on our community.
Our Experience
It honestly surprises me how we did this with two little boys. I thought there was no way we would manage this, but we did. We even went with a pair of friends who have a 1-month-old! I know! Two strollers deep, we waded through the masses and actually enjoyed ourselves. The Morehead City waterfront is more than capable of holding the growing numbers of visitors to the NC Seafood Festival each year comfortably, and I really appreciate that.
We have found our way to the NC Seafood Festival every year since I met my husband in 2012. We were actually not planning on making it this year, but after a slight (not really) twist of my arm, we decided to go on opening night, even though we were headed to the Asheboro Zoo at 7 AM the following morning.
We had a blast, ate good food, and learned that our nearly 2-year-old Jettson has a mean left arm when it comes to ring toss. I think in his mind, he won all the stuffed toys in the carnival from his “good” throws. – Guest post by Bluewater’s Marketing Coordinator, Jay White
Let’s Hear From You!
Have you ever been to the NC Seafood Festival? If so, what year did you attend, and what was your favorite part? Don’t miss our monthly Crystal Coast calendar of events for more local festivals and fresh events.
Wine and Design
/in Vacation Rental /by Amanda GrayAre you ready to unleash the inner artist in yourself on your vacation? Well, we found the perfect place for you! Sign up, show up, sip up, and PAINT! At Wine & Design in Morehead City, you can have fun and socialize all while you sip on a tasty glass of wine and paint something absolutely beautiful! These group painting classes are taught by local artists and are so much fun! Show up with friends or go alone, you are sure to have a great time.
The Wine and Design Art Studio
The Wine and Design studio is a quaint little “hole in the wall” located at 412 Evans Street, Unit B in Morehead City. When you walk in you instantly feel like you’re ready to create something unique to your style and taste. The walls are lined with beautiful paintings by the artists themselves and also by those who have attended the classes. The artwork doesn’t even stop there! If you walk into the restroom, it’s covered in colorful canvases! Even though it’s small, it is a very inspiring little space.
This whimsical studio allows you to bring your favorite beverage of choice: beer, wine, soda, juice, or water. You can also feel free to bring your favorite snacks, appetizers or even catering – any of your favorite eats! There is plenty of table space for food and drinks, so go crazy! Luckily, the studio provides the plastic cups and the corkscrew! Of course, you must be 21 years of age to consume alcohol, but people of all ages are welcome.
The more the merrier! Come alone or bring a group! I went with my mom, who is as much of a wine “enthusiast” as I am. We got to mingle with the other members of the class and it was so much fun! It’s best to arrive at the studio 15 minutes prior to getting signed in, fix a glass of your favorite drink, and mingle with the others. When we walked in we were immediately greeted by the artist, Rhonda. She was a sweetheart and you could tell she really enjoyed teaching this class. She made sure to make a personal connection with each of us and made us all feel warm and welcome. This really is the perfect place to sip, chat and paint!
Just remember, there are 3 very important rules!
Seriously… This is like painting by numbers, but for adults, with wine. Are you convinced yet?
The fun doesn’t stop here! Another great thing about the studio location is that it’s right near the Morehead City waterfront. Here, you can take in beautiful views and also grab a great bite to eat at one of Morehead’s well-known restaurants. My personal favorite is the Ruddy Duck and it’s within walking distance of the studio!
The Canvas
The Artists
Wine and Design in Morehead City is the perfect thing to do to bring out your creative side and sip some tasty wine! A wonderful attraction in Morehead right by the waterfront with a beautiful view, right down the street from divine restaurants with mouthwatering dishes, and entertaining activity for an evening out. How could you go wrong?!
I had so much fun spending my evening at Wine and Design and I cannot wait to go back again and bring more friends! I found the inner artist in myself and now you can too!
What You Need for a Day at the Beach with Your Baby
/in Vacation Rental /by Amanda GrayWhat You Need for a Day at the Beach with Your Baby
Ready to hit the beach with your babe? I’m sharing what you need for a day at the beach with your baby.
The thing about going to the beach with your baby is, you have to think as we locals do. Minimize the wagon, cooler, or dump truck full of things you want to bring, and just consider the basics. As long as your little one is happy, the day will go wonderfully. What’s nice about the beaches on the Crystal Coast is there will ALWAYS be a breeze. Thank goodness. So be prepared for a little cooler temperatures, especially if you have an outdoor living room set up as we did ;). But remember, cooler does not by any means, mean cold. It is still North Carolina Hot.
We make our beach trips rather short because of the temperature. This day we stayed for about 2 hours with only brief stents of shear sun with the little man. Be sure to hydrate yourself and your little person. Jettson now LOVES water, the colder the better, so we made sure to take 1 or 2 breaks to water him down. Besides that, he was completely happy with his crackers, a fake phone, and an empty wipes package…he likes how it sounds.
Top Items to Bring for a Day at the Beach with your Baby
Be sure to save our handy packing list to your mobile device for quick and easy reference before you head to the beach with your baby.
We also discovered that Jettson loves how the sand feels. So this meant plenty of baby wipes were necessary to keep his sandy hands away from those big pretty eyes.
We like to bring our Sunbrella with us to the beach if at all possible. It is simple to set up and anchors into the sand.
We pack-muled our way down to the sandy shore but did decide we needed to add a wagon to our Amazon shopping cart. So learn from our mistakes and make your load a little lighter.
Ride the Wind with Kitty Hawk Kites
/3 Comments/in Vacation Rental /by Amanda GrayRide the Wind with Kitty Hawk Kites
Hello! My name is Mimi and I’m a 37-year-old mother of 2, a loving wife to Benji, and a Crystal Coast local. Join me as I ride the wind with Kitty Hawk Kites.
I lead a pretty uneventful life. The days of wild adventures and long weekends are few and far between. Most weekends of the summer are spent looking for ways to keep my family entertained and activities to keep my children’s minds wide open to the possibilities life can present to them. When I was given the opportunity to experience something new courtesy of Kitty Hawk Kites, I accepted. Not only for the break in the norm, but to set an example for my kids to get out there and LIVE! You have to take risks to get rewards.
This is the first year Kitty Hawk Kites offered Hang Gliding in Beaufort. The flagship center on the Outer Banks has been “teaching the world to fly since 1974.” Boasting that students from ages 4-92, both male and female have participated in some form of flight, from hang gliding, kiteboarding, parasailing to paragliding. From the physically fit to physically challenged, all it takes is the desire to learn and fly. This opportunity ties in well with Ride the Wind Day.
Ride the Wind Day is an unofficial national holiday in the US, celebrated on August 23rd, that commemorates the anniversary of the first human-powered flight to win the Kremer prize. Established in 1959 by industrialist, Henry Kremer, for pioneers of human-powered flight, the first of which was given to Dr. Paul MacCready when his Gossamer Condor, piloted by Bryan Allen was the first aircraft to fly a figure eight around two markers a half-mile apart and a least 10 feet above the ground. But I’ve decided I’m going to think of it as commemorating Kitty Hawk and the first flight of The Wright Brothers, even though that was December 17, 1903. Just go with it! Ha!
I’m celebrating the holiday early and in my own way – Come with me … Here’s my day.
7:45 I’m awake, I need coffee. What do I wear for this? Yoga pants and a t-shirt … sure, sounds good. Everyone in my house is still asleep, um bye guys!
9:00 Arrive at Michael J. Smith Airfield, Beaufort. Oh gosh, I hope I’m in the right place. Why have I never been down here before? Oh, there’s a sign for hang gliding; that was easy.
9:02 I walked through the office to a picnic table under a shaded tree. My first thought … are all these people hang gliding today? Answer: YES! Even that 11-year-old: YES! Second thought these people are so cool, laid back, excited, and not even a little scared. This is the perfect scenario for my nerves. They’ve been sky diving too? YES!
Ok, I’ve got this.
9:18 A voice comes over the walkie that sits at the end of the picnic table. “Hey, is anyone there? If so, pick up the pink walkie with the seashell” We reply, “Yes, there are people here, over.” Moments later we meet James, a super high-spirited guy from Chattanooga, TN. We go over paperwork, sign waivers, get basic information about the flight as well as receive our US Hang Gliding & Paragliding Assn., Student / Affiliate Membership.
9:25 Golf cart escort with James to the center of the field where to gear up for the flight. I get to go first? Oh my gosh, I’m so excited at this point.
9:28 Gearing up and introductions from Richard and Chris. Chris is the pilot of the Bailey-Moyes Dragonfly aircraft. This thing is so basic-looking compared to planes I’ve seen before. It has an open cockpit and looked like it had pretty basic controls and this will pull the North Wing Freedom 220 hang glider up to 2,000 feet and let us go.
Richard, oh sweet kind Richard. He is amazing. This guy’s job is to allow people to experience a bird’s eye view of Beaufort and Beyond. Amazing, where do I sign up?
9:33 You ready, Mimi? Let’s GO!
9:34 -9:43 My flight lasted 10 minutes. I moved my head the entire time. I wanted to absorb as much as I could, knowing that it would be over way too soon. I’ve always known that I was lucky to be born and raised in this area but when you see it from the air, it’s like art. I could see almost to Emerald Isle, thanks to the clouds that had lifted for better visibility, Fort Macon, Beaufort Waterfront, Shackleford Banks – all were in a second’s view of one another. The wind and air temperature were about 10-15 degrees cooler, it felt amazing! Once we reached 2000 feet, Chris released us.
In that moment, I was jarred. I’m really soaring. It was just me, Richard, and some metal and canvas. I was surprisingly ok with this fact. A moment later Richard asked, “Do you want to steer?” Um, yeah! He tells me to place my hands on both sides and pull my weight forward gently. This motion takes us slowly and steadily down. My next instruction is to shift and pull my weight to the left to steer us left then right slightly to even us out.
I did it! I flew that darn thing! Richard gives me kudos for staying calm, he said that was the hardest part, getting people to remain calm. Thanks, Richard. You were a great coach.
As we got closer to the ground, I was completely overwhelmed with emotion. Everything about this experience was positive. Every single encounter was positive. I just went hang gliding! Oh gosh, I’m going to have to do this again! And with that thought, Richard brought us safely and perfectly to the earth.
The first thing I did was lay on the ground, just lay there. The contrast between the two feelings was the ultimate high. Parting from Richard, I insisted we hug. We both laughed and he wished me good luck on my blog. My response was “don’t get too excited, I’m not much of a writer” His reply was better “Well I’m not much of a pilot” Touché, sir, touché.
For more information about hang gliding with Richard & Chris check out the website.
Me and Richard pre-flight
Savannah, age 11 and the Dragonfly aircraft
Chris Bodin, our pilot
Me getting into the gear
5th Annual Bites and Blues
/in Vacation Rental /by Amanda Gray5th Annual Bites and Blues Festival
This year’s 5th Annual Bites and Blues Festival is going to be even better than the last. Happing in Downtown Morehead City in April, this yearly event is hosted by the NC Seafood Festival. Part of the proceeds from the tickets benefit the Carteret Community College Culinary Arts Program. So eat, drink, and be merry – knowing that you’re helping our community.
Views from Bites and Blues in Downtown MHC
Tickets go on sale earlier in the year and sell out very quickly because the event has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This event is exciting for many as they get the opportunity to enjoy some tasty food and specialty drinks, that might not ordinarily be on the menu in town, with friends and family.
Let your Bites and Blues ticket be your guide as you stroll along the Morehead City waterfront, listening to the sounds of live music while stopping at restaurants, and the hosting businesses, for a “bite”.
This year 16 restaurants participated along with an additional 6 host businesses. New from previous years were the specialty Bites and Blues drink provided at select stops along the way. At the end of the night, you get the chance to vote for your favorite “Bite of the Nite”. This is always one of the most difficult decisions. They’re all always so good. How do you choose just one?
Erica and friends
This Year’s Festival Winners Are:
Don’t miss out on the festival next year! Follow along with NC Seafood Festival for next year’s ticket sales and mark your calendar! Will we see you there?
Celebrating Success at our Annual Awards Dinner
/in Real Estate /by Amanda GrayLast Thursday night, we gathered together at Kathryn’s Bistro & Martini Bar in Emerald Isle to toast to one of our most productive years ever! It was a great evening, filled with lots of laughs- thanks to our hosts (& Brokers in Charge) Cathy Scheaffer & Pat Copeland.
Dinner was delicious, and during the meal we learned some very interesting facts about everyone while playing 2 truths & a lie. We certainly have a team with some unusual experiences throughout their lives.
Excellence Awards and gifts were distributed to all of our agents with over $1 million in Sales Production for the year. We also named our 2017 Rookies of the Year- Carolyn Blackmon for the Emerald Isle Office & Stephanie Ross from our Atlantic Beach location. Kitch Ayre was once again awarded our Top Producer for Volume & Sides.
Take a look at some photos below for a recap of all the fun.
Beads and Beaufort
/in Vacation Rental /by Amanda GrayMardi Gras in Beaufort, NC
Since 1699, Mardi Gras has been celebrated in cities worldwide, including our own Beaufort, NC who proudly hosts the shortest parade in North Carolina February, 21 2017.
Middle Lane will come alive with quirky parade “krews” dressed in various costumes and will toss colorful beads and jewelry to the crowds, leading up to the crowning of the Mardi Gras King and queen. Parade starts promptly at 3pm, where the sidewalks fill with crowds hoping to grab some new treasure. If you are a few minutes late, better get there early next year- really the parade is that quick!
After the procession, the party continues with live jazz/blues/swing music by Barstow & The Revamps and Blue Moon Jazz! Kiddos also can get in on the fun, with games, face painting and mask making tents set up.
Once you enjoy the celebrations and work up an appetite, local restaurants will be serving traditional Creole style food and drink that is not to be missed.
Dates: Saturday, February 25, 2017
Hours: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. The parade starts at 3 p.m. sharp.
Price: Free
Parking: Downtown Beaufort
Address: 114 Middle Lane, Beaufort, NC, 28516
Home Decor Color Combos
/in Real Estate /by Amanda GrayColor Combos that will Rock your Room
Color combos change with the seasons; some are classic and will always be in style while others are bolder and tend to come and go with the current trends. 2016 has been a bright year so here are the combos that will be the star of any room!
Shades of Gray
Gray is the new beige. Gray can be used in anything from your wall color to your kitchen cabinets, floors, to backsplash! This neutral tone can be combined with just about any other color and still be appealing. If you are in the living room try using curtains or pillows to bring in accent colors. Yellow and gray have been a popular theme for 2016. Blues, pinks/corals, and greens will add a nice contrast as well.
If you are looking to add some color in the kitchen with those gray cabinets try adding a backsplash that will spice things up. Keep things classy with white subway tiles, go vintage with the black and white scheme, get funky with a chevron pattern, or color the room with blue/green glass tiles across the back.
Add Stripes
Stripes can add excitement or serenity to a room. Depending upon the color palette you choose and whether or not you decide to do an accent wall or the entire room may depend on how bold of a statement you make. If you just want to add a pattern and draw the eye in one direction then choose an accent wall. This is much less overpowering; try using a silver or light gold for an elegant feel for your color combos. To make it even more refined use thick stripes in the middle and a thinner edge at the top and bottom of the wall. If you are heading in an exciting direction and want a bold feel, add stripes all around! This may be a fun technique for a child’s room or even an office space.
Bold Primaries
While considering color combos, think about primary colors. Primary colors can be great to use, when used wisely, and paired with other colors and tones which compliment them. White often tones down the boldness of these colors and allows them to enhance and not overpower a room. Try a white table with colorful chairs to make a statement or paint a room in a toned-down primary and use white furnishings to help draw the eye elsewhere.
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