Nov 24, 2010 The Nitty Gritty

Thank goodness this isn’t the first business we’ve ever opened.  There are an incredible number of details to deal with…along with continuing to function with your clients.  We already owned most of our furniture and computer equipment, but still needed to get a new 4 in 1 printer, one desk for me and some sort of printer/paper type cabinet.  I think someone with an entrepeneurial spirit could make a fortune selling desks of all price ranges and qualities.  We’ve looked at used furniture places, office supply, new furniture places and only found one desk that met our needs! 

We lucked out on the printer.  We originally thought we would buy one at Staples, but everytime we were in there the freaking music was so loud we couldn’t even think.  One day we drove to Asheville and went to the Best Buy there.  A really sharp young man was there who was incredibly patient with our non-geek status and talked us out of the more expensive model we thought was what we needed and into one more suitable for our needs, saving us almost $100.  Turns out it was his last day on the job (college job as a HP rep) and he was starting a job with US Cingular the next day.  I hope US Cingular treats him well.

The printer/paper unit we found at a very nice used furniture store in Hazelwood.  It is Ethan Allen, some sort of small sideboard type thing with a drawer and doors.  Very much like our hutch in the guest cottage – same finish and style.  The man gave us a really good deal on it.

Our business cards we are getting locally and my mother surprised us by saying she wanted to contribute towards our cards instead of a plant – it is good to be loved!

Our signs we have ordered online.  We hope to have them by the end of next week. 

This weekend I have clients returning to look at vacant land and/or an inexpensive cabin they can adapt to their needs.  The client from Houston did make an offer on a house in Waynesville – however, it was rejected and I believe that is because it wasn’t properly presented by the listing agent.  The client was disappointed but is ready to come back and select another house.  Our Washington DC client is busy getting her ducks in a row so that she can come back down and really concentrate on her selection.  Needless to say, we are very satisfied that we have qualified buyers in the wings but completely stressed that right now, it is all money out and no money in.  As a consequence, sleep is elusive.

Throw into the mix the update on my family member’s health.  We learned on the 20th that he had fallen and broken a hip.  He’s already had the surgery and did very well.  He is anxious to get moved into the Rehab hospital and begin his physical therapy in order to mend quickly and properly.  I can’t begin to convey how badly I miss my family right now and how grateful I am for those who do live in Florida for keeping me posted and taking such good care of each other.

We are headed to Dillsboro today to begin cleaning the office and moving some of the furniture and supplies in.  Have a good day.