My name is Pud English, a nickname given to me by my oldest sister who lives in Conyers, Ga. I grew up in South Georgia, but lived in Jacksonville, Florida and St. Augustine for most of my adult life. My degree is in Elementary Education, but I only taught for 6 years. I had a 40 year career in Jacksonville and St. Augustine in Real Estate. Most of my Real Estate career was spent in new construction sales. I had a construction company for several years until the economy decided otherwise. The last 18 years of my Real Estate career was spent with the Hines Co., the absolute best job I ever had. My husband, Ben, and my sister Sandy and I retired to Dahlonega a little over 3 years ago.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Ben and I have been married for 32 years, and I inherited two wonderful children at the same time–Ashlee and Chris. It was a great package deal. We have one grandson, Skyler. I have two amazing sisters, Sandy who moved with us, and Betty who lives in Conyers.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
My current career is being retired and volunteering a lot. I had a wonderful career in Real Estate and have continued to keep my license active, but only as a referral agent. I always wanted to volunteer a lot but work always got in my way. Now I get to do the thing I love most, helping the community.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I love all of the restaurants in Dahlonega, but I would have to say Picnic Cafe and Shenanigans.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have only lived here for 3 years, but it seems more like home than anywhere I have ever lived.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Oh my Gosh, I have met so many interesting people since moving here, but I would probably have to say Pastor Steve Schofield. Not only is he brilliant, he is also very down to earth and funny.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would probably go back to Ireland. We went there on a cruise, but didn’t get to spend but one day there. It is the most beautiful place I have ever been to.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Any Hallmark movie and NCIS
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be yourself. Always do what you say you will do, and never ever give up, because if you do, you will never know if you were almost there!!
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I really want to go to the Kentucky Derby!
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
I don’t really have a go to band. I really like country music and 60’s.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I would have to say Canvas and Cork, because that and the cottage next door belonged to my grandparents. My daddy, along with his 5 brothers and sisters grew up in the Cottage.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would have to say President Trump. There are so many questions I need to ask him. One of the wineries so he could see our beautiful Georgia views.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love our downtown area. I love the festivals, waterfalls, and most of all how everyone welcomes you even when you are new to town.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself right here in Dahlonega volunteering my little heart out.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I have always wanted to write a children’s book. I already have a title to the book just need to get busy and write it.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
I would have to say Ireland and then Alaska.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I really like all of the months now, because for the first time in 50 years, I get different seasons. I love the Christmas season and the way Dahlonega with all of its lights and decorations just makes my heart happy. I actually really like Thanksgiving Day a lot. Slower pace than Christmas but I also like Christmas Day..
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Absolutely the people. This is the friendliest place I have ever lived. And the beauty of the town itself and the surrounding views.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
I would have to say God and my family. Since retiring and really having a church family, I just feel much more centered and blessed.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Flowers and brownies cooking. I also like the smell right after the rain.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
My family, immediate and extended. I am so lucky to have so many wonderful nieces, nephews and cousins and friends. Some for over 50 years.
