Thanksgiving is only 14 days away—a time to celebrate family, gratitude, and community. Whether you’re hosting in Greenville, gathering loved ones from Ayden, Winterville, or Grimesland, or enjoying traditions across Pitt County, a little preparation ensures a smooth, memorable holiday.

Day 14–10: Plan, List, and Organize

• Create your guest list and confirm who’s coming
• Plan your menu—including main dishes, sides, desserts, and drinks
• Delegate dishes if guests are bringing food
• Take inventory of pantry and kitchen supplies
• Start a shopping list for everything from spices to serving dishes 

Day 9–7: Shop Early & Declutter Key Spaces

• Purchase pantry items, canned goods, spices, and baking ingredients
• Clean out the fridge and freezer to make room for your Thanksgiving meal
• Declutter kitchen counters and living areas
• Set aside serving bowls, utensils, and table settings 

Day 6–4: Set the Atmosphere & Family Activities

• Add seasonal décor: pumpkins, candles, fall centerpieces
• Prep your dining area and tablescape
• Wash linens, napkins, and serving trays
• Plan family activities: pumpkin decorating, fall crafts, or a neighborhood walk
• Consider board games or a family movie night for cozy bonding

Day 3–2: Prep What You Can

• Chop vegetables and prep make-ahead sides and casseroles
• Prepare desserts like pies or cobblers
• Brine or thaw your turkey if needed
• Review your cooking schedule to make Thanksgiving Day seamless

Day Before Thanksgiving: Final Touches

• Set the table fully and add finishing décor touches
• Prepare salads, pies, and cold dishes
• Double-check beverages, ice, and serving supplies
• Prep breakfast for Thanksgiving morning to stay relaxed
• Consider small family activities like a walk or simple game night

Thanksgiving Day: Put the Turkey in the Oven & Enjoy

• Follow your cooking schedule: most turkeys require 3–5 hours depending on size
• Preheat the oven and place the turkey in early to allow resting time before carving
• Keep appetizers simple and ready for guests
• Engage in family activities: share gratitude stories, play games, or watch football
• Focus on connection, laughter, and creating memories

​With this 14-day countdown, Thanksgiving in Eastern North Carolina can be stress-free, organized, and full of family fun. From Greenville to Ayden, Winterville, and Grimesland, following these steps ensures your home is ready, your meals are delicious, and your family enjoys every moment of the holiday.

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, fall in Eastern North Carolina offers the perfect mix of cozy comfort and outdoor fun. From Greenville to Ayden, Winterville, Grimesland, and throughout Pitt County, taking a few proactive steps now can help your home and family enjoy the season to the fullest.

Home Maintenance for Cooler Weather
Preparing your home for fall ensures comfort and efficiency throughout the season. Key tasks include:

• Inspecting HVAC systems to make sure your heating is ready for cooler nights
• Cleaning gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs from falling leaves
• Checking insulation and weather-stripping on doors and windows to maintain energy efficiency
• Servicing fireplaces or wood stoves if you plan to cozy up with a fire

Seasonal Décor and Atmosphere
Create a warm, welcoming atmosphere by embracing fall décor:

• Add pumpkins, gourds, and fall wreaths at your entryway
• Use cozy throw blankets, seasonal pillows, and warm lighting indoors
• Consider fall scents like cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice to enhance the ambiance

Yard and Garden Preparation
A little attention to your landscaping now makes for a healthier yard next spring:

• Rake leaves and use them for compost
• Plant fall flowers like mums or pansies for color through the cooler months
• Prune trees and shrubs to remove dead branches and promote growth
• Mulch garden beds to protect roots from early frosts

Family Activities and Community Events
Fall is the perfect season to enjoy family-friendly activities in Pitt County and surrounding towns:

• Pumpkin patches and corn mazes in Greenville, Winterville, or Ayden
• Local harvest festivals and farmers’ markets featuring fresh produce
• Scenic walks or hikes in parks or along the Tar River for crisp, autumn air

Health and Lifestyle Tips
Prepare your family for the seasonal transition with small but impactful steps:

• Boost immunity with seasonal fruits and vegetables
• Establish cozy indoor routines to enjoy cooler evenings
• Schedule flu shots and routine health check-ups as needed

Fall in Eastern North Carolina is a time for comfort, community, and connection. By preparing your home, yard, and lifestyle, you can fully embrace the season—from cozy nights at home to exploring local fall events. Start now to enjoy a smooth, stress-free transition into the beauty of autumn.

Coming home from a trip often gives you fresh perspective. If you’re thinking, “Now’s the time—I’m ready to sell my home,” that momentum is gold. Selling a house is part timing, part preparation, and part strategy. Use the post-vacation energy to get your home market-ready and attract serious buyers.

1. Decide your goals and timeline
Before diving in, be clear: are you selling to move up, downsize, relocate, or invest? 

2. Get a realistic market snapshot
Market conditions vary wildly by area and season—knowing whether you’re in a seller’s market or buyer’s market will guide pricing strategy.

3. Quick repairs and maintenance that pay off
Buyers notice obvious issues. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, burned-out lights, cracked tiles, and torn screens. Fresh caulk and tightened cabinet hinges go a long way. These relatively low-cost fixes improve buyer confidence and reduce inspection negotiating points.

4. Boost curb appeal
First impressions matter. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, sweep the porch, replace faded house numbers, power-wash siding or the driveway, and add a potted plant or two by the front door. These small updates increase perceived value and online photo performance.

5. Declutter, depersonalize, and deep clean
A tidy, neutral space helps buyers imagine themselves living there. Pack family photos and personal knickknacks, organize closets, and remove extra furniture to maximize perceived space. Consider professional cleaning to make carpets, windows, and kitchens gleam.

6. Stage strategically
Staging improves listing photos and showings. You don’t always need a full professional staging—simple touches like coordinating throw pillows, neutral linens, and a few well-placed accessories can make a big difference. Highlight your home’s best features with proper furniture placement and lighting.

​7. Professional photos and a strong listing
High-quality images and a compelling listing description are the foundation of online marketing. 

8. Price it right from day one
Overpricing often leads to long days on market and lower final sale prices. Use a comparative market analysis and your agent’s local knowledge to set a competitive price that draws traffic and generates offers quickly.

9. Choose the right agent
A great agent provides market insight, negotiates effectively, coordinates showings, and manages paperwork. Look for someone with proven sales in your neighborhood, strong online marketing skills, and positive client reviews.

10. Prepare for showings and open houses
Keep the home show-ready: tidy counters, pleasant scents, and comfortable temperatures. Make it easy for agents to show—flexible showing windows increase buyer access. If you have pets, arrange a temporary place for them during showings.

11. Know the paperwork and disclosures
Be ready with needed documents: recent tax info, utility bills, home improvements receipts, and required disclosures in your state. This speeds up the process and builds buyer trust.

12. Be ready to negotiate and close
When offers arrive, evaluate more than price—look at contingencies, timeline, and buyer financing. Your agent will help you compare offers and negotiate terms. After accepting an offer, expect inspections, possible repair requests, and final closing coordination.

If you’re back from vacation and energized to sell your home, channel that momentum into a strategic, organized selling plan. The right combination of pricing, presentation, and promotion helps sell faster and nets a stronger result.

There’s nothing quite like a banana split—this timeless dessert has been delighting taste buds for over a century. With National Banana Split Day here, what better way to celebrate than by creating your own at home? Whether you’re making one for yourself or sharing with family, this recipe is simple, fun, and full of flavor.

What You’ll Need
To make the ultimate banana split, gather these classic ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana (firm, but not overripe)
• 3 scoops of ice cream (traditional flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry)
• Whipped cream (for that perfect finishing touch)
• Chocolate syrup
• Strawberry syrup
• Pineapple topping
• Chopped nuts (optional for crunch)
• Maraschino cherries (because no banana split is complete without one!)

Optional Carolina Ingredients:

• Pecan pralines for that sweet Southern crunch
• Drizzle of North Carolina honey instead of syrup
• Toasted coconut flakes for a coastal-inspired touch
• Homemade peach compote (celebrating Carolina peaches)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Banana: Peel and slice the banana lengthwise into two halves. Place them in a long, shallow dish.
2. Add the Ice Cream: Place three scoops of ice cream between the banana halves—classic order is chocolate in the middle, vanilla on one side, and strawberry on the other.
3. Top It Off: Drizzle chocolate syrup over the vanilla scoop, strawberry syrup over the strawberry scoop, and pineapple topping over the chocolate scoop.
4. Add Whipped Cream & Nuts: Pipe whipped cream on top of each scoop and sprinkle with nuts if desired.

• Finish with a Cherry: Place a maraschino cherry on each mound of whipped cream.

Why We Love Banana Splits
Banana splits aren’t just a dessert—they’re a nostalgic treat that brings people together. Perfect for summer parties, birthdays, or just a sweet pick-me-up, they’re endlessly customizable. Want a twist? Try caramel drizzle, cookie crumbles, or even a scoop of mint chocolate chip!

Celebrate National Banana Split Day Your Way
Enjoy this sweet tradition with friends and family. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own creative flair, one thing is certain--banana splits are always a good idea!

As summer winds down, families in Pitt County are gearing up for the 2025–2026 school year. From school supply drives to open houses, there's a wealth of community events designed to help students and parents start the year off right. Here's your comprehensive guide to what's happening in Greenville, Ayden, Winterville, and beyond.

School Supply Drives: Giving Back to Our Students
Stuff the Bus – School Supply Drive
Join the annual Stuff the Bus event on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Walmart on 10th Street in Greenville from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. This initiative aims to collect essential school supplies for students in need. Donations are welcome, and volunteers are encouraged to participate. More info

Hope of Glory Ministries – School Supplies Drive
Between July and mid-August, Hope of Glory Ministries organizes a school supplies drive to support local families. Donations can be made by contacting Kathy Castillo at 252-321-6857 ext 203. More info

Open Houses & School Registration
Pitt County Schools Open House
Pitt County Schools will host their Open House on Thursday, August 21, 2025. Families can meet teachers, tour classrooms, and prepare for the upcoming school year. More info

Student Enrollment & Open Enrollment
Enrollment for the 2025–2026 school year is completed online through the central portal. Open Enrollment applications were accepted from March 1 to August 15, 2025. Enrollment Page

Community Events & Support
End of Summer Bash – Wildwood Park
Celebrate the last weekend before school starts at the End of Summer Bash on Saturday, August 23, 2025, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM at Wildwood Park (3450 Blue Heron Dr., Greenville). This family-friendly community event features local vendors, kids’ activities, music, and opportunities to connect with neighbors as the school year begins. More info and event details are available on the City of Greenville events calendar. 

Pitt County Support Group – Back to School Giveaway & Play
The Pitt County Support Group will host a Back to School Giveaway & Play on Friday, August 25, 2025, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at Wildwood Park. Families can pick up school supplies and enjoy playtime while connecting with local support resources. This is a great community resource for families preparing for the 2025–2026 school year. 
More Info

School Calendar Highlights

• First Day of School: Monday, August 25, 2025
• Open House: Thursday, August 21, 2025
• Early Release Days: Dates to be announced
• Make-Up Days: As needed

For a detailed calendar, visit the Pitt County Schools Academic Calendar

Local School Supply Lists
Ensure your child is prepared by reviewing the specific school supply lists for the 2025–2026 school year. Pitt County Schools provides detailed lists for each school, including elementary, middle, and high schools. School Supply Lists

Additional Resources

• Pitt Community College – Fall 2025 Registration: Pitt CC Admissions
• Pitt County Cultural Arts & Recreation: Programs & Events

Thinking of Moving to Pitt County?

If you're considering relocating to Pitt County, NC, I can help. Contact me today to start your journey to a new home in Pitt County.

For more information on school events and resources, visit the Pitt County Schools Website

When it comes to selling your home, setting the right price is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While it’s tempting to “start high” to see what happens, overpricing can cost you valuable time, money, and opportunities. Here are three major risks of overpricing—and the smart solutions that can help you avoid them.

1. Multiple Price Reductions Send the Wrong Message
Risk:
A high initial list price often leads to weeks (or even months) without strong buyer interest. This usually results in multiple price reductions over time, which can make buyers wonder what’s wrong with the property. Instead of creating excitement, it can create doubt—and those doubts can lead to lower offers.
Solution:
Price your home competitively from the start by working with a local real estate agent who can analyze recent sales, active listings, and market trends. An accurate pricing strategy builds buyer confidence and encourages competitive offers early on.

2. Extended Time on the Market Hurts Your Selling Power
Risk:
The longer your home sits unsold, the more “stale” it can appear to buyers. In some cases, sellers get frustrated and take their home off the market altogether—or decide to rent it out instead. That delay can mean missing the best window for selling, especially during peak market seasons.
Solution:
Launch your listing with a competitive price that captures attention immediately. A well-priced home often draws more showings in the first two weeks—when buyer interest is highest. The right launch strategy can help you sell before your listing loses momentum.

3. You May Walk Away with Less Money
Risk:
It’s a common misconception that pricing high will leave “room to negotiate.” In reality, overpricing can shrink your buyer pool, delay offers, and sometimes leads to selling for less than you could have gotten with a competitive listing price.
Solution:
Use a data-driven approach to figure out your home’s fair market price by checking out recent sales, active listings, and the latest market trends. Homes priced right often sell faster and may even kick off multiple offers. —helping you get the best return possible.

​Pricing for Success
A well-priced home sells faster and brings you the best return. It takes more than guesswork—it means truly knowing the local market, analyzing recent sales, and understanding what buyers want right now.

If you’re thinking about selling, I’d love to help you attract the right buyers and make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.  

Feel free to reach out anytime—I’m here to help whenever you’re ready!

August brings the final stretch of summer in Eastern North Carolina, and with it, a renewed focus on community, routines, and home life. From Greenville to Ayden, Grimesland, and throughout Pitt County, it’s a month filled with opportunity—whether you're making memories, building local connections, or exploring your next move in real estate.

As the season begins to shift, many families are wrapping up vacations, preparing for back-to-school routines, and soaking up the last long days of summer. In towns like Ayden, Grimesland, and Winterville, August is filled with local events, farmer’s markets, and neighborhood gatherings that remind us why Eastern NC is such a special place to call home.

It’s also a great month for refreshing your home—whether inside or out. Late summer is the perfect time to tidy up landscaping, refresh outdoor spaces, or start small home projects before fall arrives. Fresh mulch, seasonal plants, or a newly painted front door can go a long way in boosting curb appeal and creating a welcoming vibe.

August real estate trends in Eastern North Carolina show steady activity as families settle in before the school year. Thinking of selling? August is a great time to boost curb appeal with fresh landscaping or exterior updates that catch buyers' eyes. Looking to buy? With motivated sellers and new listings hitting the market, this month offers solid opportunities to explore homes in Greenville, Ayden, or Grimesland before the busyness of fall begins.

Whether you’re staying cool at a local splash pad, grabbing a bite at your favorite Pitt County spot, or meeting new faces at community events, August is a great reminder of the power of place and connection. Life here in ENC is about more than just location—it’s about community.

July 30th marks International Day of Friendship, a global reminder of how meaningful relationships shape our lives. Whether it's a lifelong best friend, a supportive neighbor, or a new connection made in your local community, friendship is at the heart of what makes life rich and rewarding.
In today’s fast-paced world, taking time to appreciate and nurture our personal and community relationships is more important than ever. International Day of Friendship isn’t just about honoring existing friendships—it’s also about encouraging kindness, connection, and unity across different cultures, neighborhoods, and communities.

What Is International Day of Friendship?
International Day of Friendship was established by the United Nations to promote peace and bridge gaps between people, countries, and cultures. It highlights the value of friendship in promoting understanding, respect, and harmony.
But friendship isn’t just a global concept—it begins right here in your hometown. Whether you live in Greenville, Ayden, Grimesland, or anywhere in Pitt County, Eastern North Carolina thrives when we build and nurture community connections.

Friendship Starts at Home and in Your Community
Strong communities are built on strong relationships. Whether you’re in a tight-knit rural town like Grimesland or a growing city like Greenville, the feeling of connection with the people around you can shape your daily life.
Simple acts of kindness—like waving to your neighbor, helping with yard work, or inviting someone to share a meal—foster a sense of belonging. These small gestures turn strangers into neighbors and neighborhoods into true communities. In places like Ayden and Winterville, you’ll often find that the foundation of community comes from those everyday connections.
This is why building friendships locally and understanding the importance of community connection is so vital in Eastern NC. Whether you're new to the area or have called Pitt County home for years, nurturing relationships is one of the most meaningful ways to invest in your well-being—and your community's health.

Ways to Celebrate International Day of Friendship
If you're looking for thoughtful ways to celebrate this day in Greenville or elsewhere in ENC, consider these ideas to strengthen your personal connections and community involvement.

1. Reach out to an old friend. Reconnect with someone you haven’t talked to in a while. A quick phone call, text, or handwritten note can mean more than you think.
2. Host a small gathering. Invite a few friends or neighbors over for coffee, a front porch chat, or a casual dinner. Taking time to be together strengthens bonds.
3. Perform a random act of kindness. Pick up a coffee for a coworker, help a neighbor with their groceries, or leave a kind note for someone who might need it. These small acts support community unity.
4. Celebrate cultural diversity. Learn about another culture, try new food, or attend a local multicultural event. Friendship grows when we appreciate each other's differences.
5. Get involved locally. Volunteer with a local nonprofit, attend a community event, or support a small business in Pitt County. Building friendships locally often starts with showing up and getting involved.
   
   

Friendship Brings Us Home
Whether you’re in a new neighborhood in Greenville or you’ve lived in Ayden your whole life, meaningful connections are what make a place feel like home. Friendship builds emotional security, inspires growth, and fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels like they belong.
In Eastern NC, we take pride in being friendly, welcoming, and community-driven. From town festivals to backyard BBQs, from helping hands to shared celebrations, friendship and neighborhood unity are what give our towns their unique charm.
Friendship is more than just companionship—it’s a foundation for peace, resilience, and joy. It builds bridges, strengthens communities like those in Pitt County, and reminds us we’re never truly alone.
​
So today, and every day, let’s celebrate International Day of Friendship by reaching out, reconnecting, and making space for new connections. Whether it’s in your hometown of Grimesland or in the heart of Greenville, Eastern North Carolina is a better place when we support each other.

When it comes to boosting your home’s value, interior upgrades like minor kitchen remodels and small bathroom renovations usually top the list. Add in fresh, neutral paint, replacing carpet with hardwood or luxury vinyl flooring, and you’re already increasing value.
​
But what about the outside? Your home’s exterior is the first thing people notice—and curb appeal plays a big role in perceived value. If you’re planning to sell or simply want to improve your property, these are the best exterior home improvements to consider. Not only do they add charm and function, they offer some of the highest ROI home renovation projects.

1. Siding Replacement
Old, worn-out siding can instantly date your home and reduce energy efficiency. Replacing it with fiber-cement or vinyl siding is one of the smartest ways to increase home value through curb appeal. Fresh siding makes your home look newer, cleaner, and more cared-for.
Choose timeless, neutral tones for broad buyer appeal.

2. Front Door Upgrade
A new front door is a fast, budget-friendly upgrade that makes a big first impression. A high-quality steel or fiberglass door adds both style and security, making your home stand out before guests or buyers even walk inside.
Consider a pop of color or added glass detail for personality and natural light.

3. Garage Door Replacement
One of the most overlooked—but incredibly valuable—improvements is replacing your garage door. It can drastically modernize your home’s appearance and improve efficiency.
This makes it one of the highest-return exterior home upgrades on the market.

 4. Fire Pit or Outdoor Living Area
Outdoor living is in demand, especially in Eastern NC, where we enjoy a mild climate for much of the year. Adding a fire pit, deck, or patio creates a cozy space for entertaining and relaxation.
Built-in features and hardscaping add the most value.

5. Landscaping + Planting Trees
Never underestimate the landscaping return on investment. Clean flower beds, mulched borders, trimmed bushes, and strategically planted trees can instantly enhance your curb appeal and home value.
Trees provide long-term value by adding beauty, privacy, and even lowering cooling costs.

6. Landscape Lighting
Installing landscape lighting not only elevates curb appeal at night but also adds security and ambiance. Path lights, up lighting trees, or accenting your entryway can make your home feel polished and inviting.
Use energy-efficient LED or solar lights to keep long-term costs low.

Don’t Forget the Interior
While exterior projects pack a powerful punch, don’t skip the basics inside. These interior updates continue to offer high returns:

• Minor kitchen remodels
• Bathroom renovations
• Replacing carpet with hardwood or LVP
• Fresh, neutral interior paint

When combined with strong exterior updates, these renovations create a move-in-ready feel that buyers love.

Eastern NC Home Selling Tips
If you're thinking of selling in Eastern North Carolina, curb appeal and first impressions matter more than ever. These exterior upgrades can position your home ahead of the competition, attract more attention online, and potentially boost your final sale price.

Whether you're preparing to list or planning future improvements, focus on high-ROI home renovation projects that truly make a difference. Smart exterior investments like siding replacement, garage door upgrades, and landscaping don’t just look good—they pay off.

From curb appeal to comfort, the right projects can transform a home and significantly increase its return on investment. Whether preparing to sell or simply making smart upgrades for the future, focusing on improvements that add lasting value is always a wise move.

If you’ve stepped outside lately, you know—Carolina summers don’t play around. With rising temperatures and sky-high humidity, your AC is working just as hard as you are to stay cool. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, now’s the time to give your air conditioning system the TLC it needs to power through the peak of the season.

Here’s how to stay ahead of the summer heat (and avoid a mid-July meltdown!):

Change Your Air Filters—Often
This is the easiest and most important tip. Change your air filters at least every 30 days during the summer months.

Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder. A clogged filter can cause higher energy bills—and even system failure. Clean filters also mean better air quality and a longer-lasting HVAC unit.

Tip: Set a reminder in your calendar at the start of each month.

Keep It Consistent
It’s tempting to crank the thermostat way down when you get home from a hot day, but quick temperature swings can overwork your system.

Instead, keep your thermostat within 2–3 degrees of your usual setting. Programmable or smart thermostats can help maintain a steady temp without the extra strain.

Give Your Vents Some Space
Walk around your home and make sure furniture or curtains aren’t blocking your air vents. Blocked airflow means less efficiency and more work for your AC.

This is especially important in rooms that feel hotter than others—air circulation makes a big difference!

Schedule a Maintenance Check
Even if everything seems fine, it’s smart to have your HVAC system inspected by a professional once a year—ideally in early spring.

A tech can check refrigerant levels, clean the coils, and spot minor issues before they become big (and expensive) ones.

Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans don’t cool the air—but they help your body feel cooler by moving air around. Make sure your fans are spinning counterclockwise in the summer to push air downward.

This lets you raise the thermostat a couple degrees without sacrificing comfort.

Bonus Tip: Shade Your Space
Keep blinds or curtains closed during the heat of the day, especially on sun-facing windows. You’d be surprised how much cooler your home can stay just by blocking direct sunlight.

Homeowners and Tenants - This Applies to You, Too!
Whether you own or rent, regular filter changes and smart cooling habits can extend the life of your system, lower your bills, and keep your summer comfortable.

If you’re renting, don’t assume your landlord will take care of the filter—it’s often your responsibility.
If you’re a homeowner, think of this as routine care just like oil changes for your car.

Stay Cool, Eastern NC!
Eastern North Carolina summers are no joke—but with a little prep and a few smart habits, you can beat the heat without overworking your AC (or your wallet). And if you're looking for a home with a great HVAC system or energy-efficient upgrades, I’m always here to help.

Let’s find you a home that keeps its cool—even when the temperature doesn’t.