Tonya Hayes

I recently had the privilege of helping a family from California purchase a condo in the University of South Carolina area of Columbia for their student. After doing some searches and helping them through the process, we ended up purchasing a one bedroom condo at Senate Street Plaza. Because they were in California and unable to handle the little things of buttoning up the transaction, I coordinated with electricians, furniture delivery men and a few others so they could rest easily when they arrived for the first time.

Typically, a one-of-a-kind piece of art work of the outside of the home is my "thank you" gift of choice; however with him being a college student, I didn't see him fully appreciating this. Finally, I decided to make their first impressions of the condo they bought "sight unseen" exemplary, so I cleaned immensely and purchased him some Tervis insulated Palmetto cups and a key chain. For those of you who don't live in South Carolina, you must realize we South Carolinian's are second in state pride only to Texans! We love our Palmetto State! Palmetto's are in yards, on belts, flags, hats, and shirts!

The Dowd's arrived late Friday evening and called the next morning bright and early as happy as larks! They loved the place and could not have been more delighted in how perfect it was for their student. As they soon got him settled in, we spent some time together and enjoyed all things southern! Bar B Que at Hudson'swith sweet tea and banana pudding, a quick trip to Charlestonand just time rocking and chatting. They were so appreciative and remarked, "I don't know if we have just experienced the southern hospitality we've always heard of or if we got a really good realtor, but we are so thankful for all you have done!"

For me, that was all I needed! To be thanked, appreciated and to know I have helped you and your family, makes this job the best in the world! Surprisingly, they were so appreciative they decided to send a little piece of the best California has to offer back to me. Just last Friday, I was greeted with a delectable sweet treat from See's Candies as their way of saying"thank you" for going beyond the call of duty. This wonderful custom mix of chocolates was extraordinary! It was not expected but most certainly enjoyed!

I am enjoying families and their candies from California! Hope your day is as wonderful as our fall Palmetto day!

Leading, Serving, Caring! Tonya

Yesterday afternoon at 3:30 pm I did what I do every afternoon, sit in car line at Dutch Fork Middle School and pick my 8th grader from school. While it sometimes cramps my style, I must admit I treasure the few minutes alone I have with him to hear about his day, find out who's dating who, and what exciting thing they served for lunch! However yesterday was different! He was so excited! He couldn't wait to get in the car!

"Mom, our den is undefeated in kickball!" I could quickly tell this was big news because I usually have to do a little digging to get the details of the day. Kickball has come along way since we were kids! The teams are formed by den, so there's no hard feelings about being chosen or last chosen. He was even elected as "Assistant coach." He isn't head coach because he thought he couldn't play if he was the coach - and that would never do! They have jerseys and a team name! Putnam's Pirates!

As he was talking through his experiences, a flood of emotions and memories came to mind. Growing up in the small, traditional town of Camden, South Carolina I had my fair share of kickball games! Our games were usually for exercise and to have something to do, but these kids today are highly organized! They were learning lots of life lessons:

• They had discussed and learned what each other was good at and positioned them appropriately! A Good to Great concept in action! Getting the right people in the right positions.
• They dicussed, negotiated and compromised their team colors so both boys and girls were satisfied.
• The girls acted as "buyers" and found inexpensive t shirts for their jerseys, then decorated them to build team spirit.
• Since they have begun to play, the coach has learned that no one is ever happy with the line up! They want to play more or less or in a different position. Wow! What a great lesson in Leadership!

I'm so proud of our teachers, schools, and young people! They really are learning and making the most of all that school has to offer. As a parent, I'm thankful for time to share, guide and shape two of the most wonderful leaders of the next generation!

Leading, Serving, and Caring...It's more than just real estate!