How does a place feel like home? Is it the warm, inviting colors that conjure a friendly greeting? Can it be the residents inside who provide hospitality out of the kindness of their hearts? During the summer of my daycare days, the feeling of home overwhelmed me whenever I saw my dad’s black Toyota pick-up. I knew there would be a 3 Musketeers bar elevated on the pullout cup holders directly under the A/C vent with my name on it. In high school, it wasn’t “home” until my completely muddy dog Dixie pounced on me within two seconds before my girlfriend came over. Later in college, the feeling of home didn’t transpire until 50 frat guys hackled me from our balcony as I walked back from class. Whatever the case may be, there’s some alluring reason that can make a building feel like home.
A few years ago, my mom and uncle went on a trip to Colorado Springs. Along their journey, they decided to take a break in a small town in the Northeast area of New Mexico. This duo has a soft spot when it comes to small coffee/antique stores. Luckily, they caught a glimpse of a sign advertising their kryptonite. Without thinking, they immediately took the block and parked into the back lot of the store. “This store definitely felt like home,” my mom later explained to me.
As they walked around the tiny store, they glanced at the small display of antiques. The nervous elderly store clerk watched without greeting them. She was obviously not the best salesperson in the world. Rather disappointed at the trinkets, my mom asked if the clerk had any pie. The clerk cocked her head and told my mom that she had some mockingbird pie in the freezer. My mom and uncle both get excited about the pie. Before the clerk leaved, my uncle questioned the clerk about the sitting arrangement or the lack there of. The clerk said that she would take care of it.
A few minutes passed and finally the elder clerk came shuffling towards my mom and uncle with a heavy load of chairs, a table, and mockingbird pie. They rushed over to help the over-burdened clerk. After assisting with the preparation of the dining table, my uncle asked if any coffee was made. The clerk shook her head. Feeling a little perturbed at this point, they both settled for water. After being done with their meal, they patiently waited for their ticket. Finally, they asked the clerk how much they owed her. The elder clerk told them not to worry about it. Maybe it was her poor service or her nervousness that prevented her from charging; nevertheless, they received a free meal.
As they pulled away from the most unprofessional restaurant ever, my mom and uncle couldn’t argue about the homey feeling they experienced. Once they drove out the parking lot onto the road, they noticed another store next door with the exact same logo as the small billboard displayed prior to turning into the parking lot. Why would they put two of the exact same stores next to each other? This was no Starbucks. Then, it all became clear to my oblivious family. My mom and uncle barged into some elder ladies home assuming that she was running a coffee/antique store. The duo was so embarrassed they didn’t make any more stops until they were out of New Mexico.
Was it the quaint coziness of the elder ladies home that gave it a homey feeling? Or was the lady herself the conductor of the mood? Either way, the sweetness of that home entranced my mom and uncle to eat that poor lady’s mockingbird pie. Hopefully, this blog can find that nice elderly clerk because I would like to apologize on my crazy family’s behalf.
We are sorry, Nice Elderly Lady!
Speaking of “feeling like home,” here are some great homes to check out!
1756 Greystone in Springdale, Arkansas
- 4 Bedrooms
- 4 Bathrooms
- 2 Car Garage
- Approx. 2,712 Sq ft.
This home just had beautiful granite counters installed with a backsplash in the kitchen. Also, this home features a fireplace, tile floors, a study room, Cathedral ceilings, walk-in shower, Whirlpool tub, and covered patio. Another huge feature is the convenience of having parks, schools, a hospital, and a fire station nearby.
2644 Hyland Park in Fayetteville, Arkansas
- $2,900 PRICE REDUCTION!
- 4 Bedrooms
- 3 Bathrooms
- 2 Car Garage
- Approx. 1,777 Sq ft.
Beautiful hardwood floors, spacious living room, and a warm fireplace can all be found in this home. Outside, a covered and an open, air-railed deck will be waiting for you. If that doesn’t tickle your fanny, then maybe the $2,900 price reduction will!
Pictures for these listing will be on our Facebook page at “Terri Lynn McNaughton Realtors” soon. Be sure to “Like” our page in order to update you on any other special featured homes in Northwest Arkansas.
