CityView Magazine

CityViewNC.com | 39 Changing Hands An extensive renovation with two small children is far from ideal, so Wyatt's dad—from whom they purchased their home—graciously lived through the changes, oentimes supervising the process. Over the course of a year, Mr. Jenkins watched his home transform into that of his son and daughter-in-law. "I can't imagine being in his shoes as we took his things away," said Lauren as she listed the changes they made—from chandeliers above, to the modern wood-look ceramic tile on the laundry room floor. She chuckled as she recounted the process, remembering that Mr. Jenkins slept in what is now Avery's pink palace— fresh pink walls and all. "We are forever indebted," she said gratefully. "We will never be able to repay him for living through it all." Where Credit is Due "We are blessed to have what we have," said Lauren, as she walked through the home, highlighting the work and crasmanship of others far more frequently than acknowledging her own vision. From Debra Ingram, who helped select fixtures and impeccable paint colors, to David Cox, the masterful painter who rolled the colors onto the walls, Lauren exudes gratitude. She raves of the inspired work of Debra Woodell of Creative Accents, who shepherded interior design. Lauren chose unique and eye- catching fabrics, but relied on Debra to bring her dream into reality. Debra made the window treatments, bedding in the master bedroom and in Avery's room and covered the exquisite living room furniture. "Debra knows what I like and the look I want," said Lauren. "Robin Kelly at Lisa's Custom Framing made all of my mirrors and did a great job," as she explained how she creatively dealt with odd dimensions. Lauren and Wyatt worked with Carolina Window Fashions to select and install their 3.5 inch, single-panel plantation shutters. Mid-South Lighting, Hubbard Kitchen, Bath & Lighting and Olive Glass and Marble helped make their house a home, as well. Perched at the kitchen table, a find from Ballard Designs, Lauren excitedly lists outstanding projects she and Debra are working to address—a rug here, a window treatment there. She gives simple advice to those who might embark on a similar task: "Don't settle, just to get it done. It gives you something to look forward to," she said smiling. "Take your time. It'll come together." CV Sullivan's Highland Funeral Service & Crematory Would your family know what to do in the event of your death? Have you made your wishes clear? Would funeral costs be a burden to your family members? One of the kindest gifts you could give your family is to make your own funeral arrangements before they are needed. Having the decisions made before then can reduce confusion and family discord and allow your family to focus on the grieving process. Meet with one of our experienced funeral directors to ensure that your preferences are documented and give your family the peace of mind that they are following your wishes when the time comes. The Kindest Gift You Can Give Sullivan's Highland Funeral Service & Crematory 910.484.8108 | 610 Ramsey Street | Fayetteville, NC Karen Sullivan Mercer and Edward Mercer

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