NEW FACES OF THE CRYSTAL COAST: Michelle Short

How a move to Beaufort brought Michelle Short new friendships, coastal adventures and a community she never wants to leave. 

By Coastal 55+

A Heart Full of Joy 

“I didn’t even realize my life was lacking joy until I moved here,” Michelle shared.

Her grandchildren have always brought her tremendous joy and still do. But from her first day on the Crystal Coast, Michelle noticed something changing within her.

“My heart was light and happy and full of joy!”

Drawn to the Water 

Michelle had never lived close to the water, and she is embracing every opportunity to experience it.

She has taken nearly every ferry and boat tour she can find, although she is certain there are still more waiting for her. The water and beautiful coastal scenery initially captured her attention, but she soon discovered that the true beauty of the Crystal Coast extends far beyond its shoreline.

Kindness Around Every Corner 

“The people I have met, not only here in Beaufort but everywhere in this county, are kind and generous,” Michelle said.

She has experienced patience and compassion personally. She has also watched people throughout Carteret County respond when someone asks for help in a local Facebook group. Neighbors offer information, resources, practical assistance and encouragement to people they may not even know.

“I am blown away daily.”

As someone with medical needs, Michelle was also concerned about finding healthcare in a new area. She has since connected with wonderful primary care providers and specialists.

Finding Her Place 

Michelle originally planned to join the senior center in Morehead City after arriving. Before she had the opportunity, her social circle began developing naturally.

She met welcoming people, received invitations to go places and found new friends willing to show her the ropes, including where to find the area’s best thrift shops.

Learning the Roads and Crossing the Bridges 

In Philadelphia, Michelle rarely drove. Now she drives everywhere.

She appreciates the convenience of getting around, the easy-to-learn back roads and not having to navigate major highways. There was, however, one challenge she had to overcome.

Bridges.

“For the first month or so, I had to face my fear of bridges,” she said.

Now those same bridges offer Michelle some of her favorite views. Instead of concentrating on her fear, she notices the remarkable beauty surrounding her in every direction.

A Community That Feels Like Home 

Michelle admits to feeling a little envious of those who have spent their entire lives living and working here. She treasures what longtime residents teach her and says every local person she has met has been lovely.

She has been especially touched by the younger generation.

“The young people here are polite, even when no one is watching, and the respect is very much appreciated,” she said. “I think so many mamas here have raised beautiful people.”

Michelle has also noticed how dog-friendly the Crystal Coast is, adding one more item to her growing list of reasons to love coastal living.

Could the Crystal Coast Become Home? 

Michelle now looks at local real estate almost every day. There may still be some convincing to do, especially while her husband is working hard in the heat and she is having what she describes as the absolute time of her life.

Her family may provide another persuasive reason to stay.

“Family does come to visit when you live in paradise!”

What began as a move for her husband’s final job has brought Michelle friendship, compassion, freedom and a renewed appreciation for each day.

She crossed the bridges she once feared and discovered beauty waiting on the other side.

Now, the only bridge she may not want to cross is the one leading away from the Crystal Coast.