A new outlook

By Sue Conner
Posted Monday, November 12, 2007

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Chapel Hill, NC - I have lived in Chapel Hill for 27 years and have seen many changes - some better and some not so good. The one thing I know is that Chapel Hill and Orange County have grown too fast and furiously.

My husband and I purchased several acres in Chatham County several years ago. We planned on selling our big home here and moving to the "country". (Hope that doesn't sound offensive to anyone - I mean it as a huge compliment.) As of today, we are still here, in a too large home just waiting for a sale.

However, we are becoming more unsure about Chatham County as a place to move. We are now both retired and frankly love Pittsboro and the old timey atmosphere that is so evident downtown. We love any store that will put a bench outside for anyone who wants a short rest or, hopefully, a nice conversation. We love planting small vegetable gardens for us and our grown-up family and "putting up" a few jars of pickles, tomatoes, jams, etc. for the short winters we enjoy in NC. We breed racing whippets and want more room for our "dog children".

I love the chatlist and think a town who has one is blessed. Gene is a wonderful man who gives very generously of his time to monitor this for us. All the citizens should applaud Gene every time they see him.

We have decided to now look elsewhere for a place to retire. Chatham County is growing way too fast and it seems to me that developers and investors have found a great place to "make a buck" or many bucks. Too many of the politicians agree and poor Pittsboro will become "South Chapel Hill" before too long. Too much traffic, too high taxes, too much building of subdivisions. Then come the schools (more taxes) and more folks to want the special conveniences that are only available in larger populated counties. And, for this venue of opinions, too much controversy about everything.

I am at the age that I now want a peaceful life. I love my land, my neighbors and friends, my family, all animals and birds and I now believe that Chatham County is not the place I want to spend the rest of my life. A big thank you again for this chatlist and all who contribute to it. It has been a huge help to my husband and I. Best of life's pleasantries to you all from me and I hope God watches over you.

Peace and blessings.