Does Anyone Know…?
Will there be an Outback? A Lowes? A Starbucks? A Chick-fil-a? Is that a new development? Could they be building the new Rays Stadium in that open lot?
If you want to know, just consult Facebook! Ok…maybe not. But it sure is fun to check-in on some of the Parrish-based social media sites. There are days when the rumor mill is out in full force, and it is always good for comic relief! Especially when there’s speculation on what is going to be built and where. Sometimes they get it right and sometimes the guesses are hilariously wrong. But, no matter what the result, there’s always a peppering of concern. Maybe we’re becoming too populated?
The nostalgia is real. Though we all crave the conveniences of modern life, it’s very easy to romanticize the good ole days with lots of green spaces and cows. But it wasn’t always what it seemed. I remember the early days of FoxBrook (nearly two decades ago now), our sales disclosure packets had to include a disclaimer advising homeowners that living next door to an agricultural property could come with certain sights, smells, fertilizers and more. Often, the thought of backyard barbecues next door to the flies, over spray and dust that sometimes comes with farm and ranch living, was more of a deterrent than the idea of being “one with nature.”
A different perspective.
The fact is, “we’ve been discovered.” The secret of our special community is out, and now there’s no turning back. Over the years, some of our local farmers and ranchers have struggled to earn a living. Now, with values where they are, they can profit on their properties that were designated as future development zoning. It is unfair to expect them to miss this “once in a lifetime” chance to take care of their families, just so we can enjoy a ride in the country.
In all honesty, I do understand the frustration and the growing pains that come with such a shift. As a long-time resident, I too miss some of the older charter charm. The traffic is crazy, and it seems like there is no quick trip to anywhere anymore. Stores and restaurants are packed, and lines are long. But it isn’t all bad. The very things we complain about are the signs that tell us our community is thriving. People are working. People are happy. Our kids are getting new schools, our neighbors have jobs, and the local economy is holding strong.
That’s why we’ve decided to choose happiness! Happy that we have been a part of this wonderful growth and happy to help others fall in love with Parrish (again) like we have.
We’re also happy about our upcoming move. We are so excited to be able to tell our story to everyone, to introduce ourselves to new residents and re-introduce ourselves to some of the long timers!
Follow our story on social media! We can’t promise you the Ray’s Stadium, a Target or a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, but we’ll happily tell you all about our new location and anything you want to learn about this amazing community.