
Our final
Meet the Founders post is here; last, but not least, we're featuring Lauren,
Lance's wife, lovingly known to him as Bob (another story for another time...). After a brief stay in Gainesville (make that 10 years at the University of Florida earning her undergrad, masters, and doctorate in nutritional science), this Amelia Island native is back and excited to embark on the
Cape House journey with
Lance,
Tiffany, and
Wes. If you know her, you know she's definitely the smartest of us all. If you don't, get to know more about her below:
ON CAPE HOUSE…
What's your role at Cape House?
"Anything and everything. By day I am the Director of Food & Nutrition for Nassau County Schools. My greatest strengths are problem solving and critical thinking. I am trained as a research scientist, so I love all things research and data. Anytime we need to spreadsheet something they call on Wes and I! I am sure my role will evolve over time but my greatest responsibility right now is as moral support and chief encourager for our key players- Lance & Tiffany."
What’s your vision for Cape House?
"Similar to Wes, I am a terrible visionary. I am a do-er and detail oriented. I love planning short term goals and getting the job done efficiently and effectively. So, my goal now is to survive this build out and opening. Ha! But seriously, my hope and prayer for Cape House is that the business will continue to grow so that we can give more and reach more people. I would love to see Cape House in 10 years all across the world shining a light and pointing people to Jesus!"
KEEPING IT LIGHT…
Last three photos on your phone?
"Addi Grace in a lobster float in the pool; a screenshot of the Summer movies for Addi to go to this Summer; a screenshot of a food truck as inspiration for my next project in the schools."
Most recent read? Favorite book?
"Most recently reread God is Able by Priscilla Shirer as we embarked on L&L journey; it's a great reminder of the promises of Ephesians 3:20. I actually never read for pleasure until the last 3 or 4 years of my life (thanks to all that academic reading for knowledge in school), so I'm learning to appreciate reading. My favorite book now is Strengthening the Leadership of Your Soul by Ruth Haley Barton - so rich and life- changing. Never read anything quite like it!"
Who would play you in a movie of your life?
"Most would say Kristen Bell, although my dream would be for it to be Reese Witherspoon!"
Favorite ice cream flavor?
"Chocolate chip cookie dough or cookies and cream - although, I have really been loving vanilla soft serve with the coconut hard shell from Denucci's lately! If you've never been to this Sadler spot, you've got to try it!"
Favorite season?
"Fall - there's something about the spice in the air - the pumpkins, cinnamon, cornucopias, and candy corn. I like it getting cooler, so I can wear jackets (which are actually my favorite items to purchase... and I live in Florida. ha!), and I love scarves and boots."
Favorite holiday?
"Christmas - how does it get better than celebrating the birth of our Savior - it's the whole reason we even exist! I love reading the story all month with Addi Grace - bringing everything back to the main thing. I also love the ambiance - the weather (again more boots and jackets!), the lights, more time with family and friends, the fresh baked goods…. love it all!"
LET’S DIG A LITTLE DEEPER…
What trait do you like the most about yourself?
"My feet, of course!"
What trait has gotten you in the most trouble?
"My perfectionism. It is hard for me to delegate and let things go. I want everything done right and it causes me to get completely overwhelmed and stressed out!"
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
"My father always told me to remember the 5 P's - prior planning prevents poor performance. I think that's why I'm such a planner!"
What do you love about being a part of your family?
"All of my siblings chose to live in the same town we grew up in to be near our parents for a reason. We have such a close family, and I am so blessed to have them all - we always know we have each other to call upon for anything. They are my lifeline. I can’t imagine life any differently. Lance and I would NEVER have been able to accomplish all that we have and hope to in the future without all of their love and support. We have weekly family dinners to ensure we stay close, see each other, and catch up on life. Mom still cooks for us, which is fabulous. Both Lance and I are fortunate enough to have parents that are still together and have been married for over 40 years - rare these days to have such a role model and influence for your life."
Lauren will continue her day job with the school system when Cape House opens, but you'll definitely run into her at the store - probably with Addi Grace in tow. Make sure to say hello!