Our Foster Care Journey: A Call to Love and Serve

Fostering isn't just a family tradition for us - it's a calling. My grandmother (Nany) cared for over 120 foster children in her lifetime, setting an incredible example of love and service. Following in her footsteps, Julie and I became licensed foster parents in 2019, and we've had the privilege of caring for more than 25 children since then.

The need is immense. In South Carolina alone, there are over 4,000 children in foster care, but only about 1,040 foster homes are available. That's nearly four children for every available home.

People often ask us how we can open our home to strangers or how we cope with saying goodbye. The truth is, this experience has taught us so much. We've learned that all children - and most adults - simply desire love and acceptance without judgment. Through our faith, we're able to provide these children a safe haven, even if it's temporary.

Yes, it's hard to let them go. But we remind ourselves of the challenges these children face, and our momentary discomfort pales in comparison to the lifelong difference we can make in a child's life.

We believe all children are God's children, entrusted to our care. By fostering, we have the opportunity to show love, stability, and acceptance to those who need it most.

I challenge you to consider fostering. The impact you could have on a child's life is immeasurable. It's not always easy, but it's always worth it.

Julian's Journey: Our Adoption Story

Julian was dead set on signing his own adoption agreement so he could be part of our family forever! This is a picture of him signing that exact agreement!

In 2019, our lives changed forever when a 3-year-old boy named Julian came into our care. From the moment he arrived, we knew in our hearts that he was meant to be our son. In March 2020, Julian became a permanent part of our family, and we officially finalized his adoption in 2022.

Julian has seamlessly become "one of us." As the youngest of five children, he's learned to hold his own, which has helped shape him into a resilient and adaptable child. His siblings don't cut him any slack, but this has only fueled his competitive spirit and athletic prowess.

It's amazing to see Julian excel in nearly every sport he tries. He's particularly fond of running, often joining his mom for runs. He's even ventured out on his own to run 5Ks, frequently finishing at the top of his age group. His determination and natural talent continue to impress us.

We feel incredibly blessed that God chose us to be Julian's forever home. Watching him grow, develop his skills, and integrate into our family has been a joy beyond measure. We're excited to see what the future holds for Julian and look forward to supporting him every step of the way as he continues to grow and flourish.

Our adoption journey with Julian has reinforced our belief in the power of love and family. It's a testament to how fostering can lead to beautiful, permanent connections. We're grateful for every day we have with Julian and can't imagine our family without him.

Mom and Dad

Dad - Robert Bee 09/13/1944 - 04/27/2024

A Life Dedicated to Home Furnishings

Robert Bee, my beloved father, spent his entire career in the Home Furnishings industry, leaving behind a legacy of enthusiasm, humor, and wisdom. His journey began in Augusta, GA, after returning from his Air Force tour in Vietnam.

The Unexpected Career Path

In 1969, while waiting for a promised call from the local paper mill, Dad took a job as a salesperson at Cobern Furniture Company. That call never came, but it led to an incredible 50-year career in home furnishings.

Rising Through the Ranks

Dad's determination and skill saw him climb from salesperson to sales manager, then to vice president, and finally to president. In May 1988, he achieved a significant milestone by purchasing the store.

Industry Recognition

Dad's expertise was recognized when he was elected to the Georgia Home Furnishings Association Board in 1987. Even after closing Cobern Furniture in 1999, his passion for the industry continued.

The Mattress Industry Years

Dad's career evolved as he worked for Loving Care, Comforpedic, and Simmons-Serta. His final role as the National Accounts Trainer for Simmons-Serta lasted 10 years, where he earned the nickname "The Legend" for his charismatic personality and ability to connect with people.

A Personal Touch

I fondly remember staying with Mom and Dad during my business trips to Florida. Dad would playfully set his awards on my nightstand, a gentle reminder of his accomplishments and our shared industry.

A Lasting Legacy

Dad retired in 2016, leaving behind a truly legendary status both in the industry and within our family. His passing on April 27th, 2024, leaves a void that will be deeply felt. Robert Bee, "The Legend," will be truly missed.

Mom - Janice Bee 04/24/1949 - 08/01/2016

A Passion for Baking and Community Service

Mom was renowned for her exceptional wedding cakes, crafted for the local Jewish synagogue and many brides. I have fond memories of spending days with her at the synagogue, sneaking bites of cake tops while she decorated.

Professional Achievements at Cobern Furniture

At Cobern Furniture, Mom's creative eye and business acumen shone brightly. She assisted Dad with store display design and was appointed Vice President, playing a crucial role in the company's success. Her ability to blend creative vision with sound business practices was instrumental in the store's growth.

A Shared Love for Travel and Adventure

Mom and Dad explored 19 countries and 25 US states together. These travels enriched their lives and brought a wealth of experiences they shared with family and friends.

A Life Well-Lived and a Lasting Legacy

Janice Bee passed away on August 1, 2016, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, and adventure. Her passion for baking, contributions to Cobern Furniture, and zest for travel continue to inspire our family and all who knew her.

Together, Robert and Janice Bee created a formidable partnership in business and life. Their shared experiences in the home furnishings industry, extensive travels, and dedication to family and community have left an indelible mark on all who knew them.

In 2023, I introduced a new approach to showcasing furniture and mattress products: a fully-equipped mobile showroom.

This custom-renovated 17' cargo trailer features LVT flooring, fresh paint, air conditioning, and a mini-fridge, all powered by an attached generator for complete mobility.

The exterior boasts unique artwork created by a talented 14-year-old student, depicting a motorcycle made from a dresser and ridden by a mattress man—a creative fusion of the furniture and mattress world with life on the road.

This innovative mobile showroom allows us to bring actual samples of mattresses and furniture directly to our retail partners and prospective clients. It offers a hands-on experience with our products, moving beyond traditional catalog presentations.

Our mobile showroom represents a significant investment in customer service and product demonstration, providing a unique opportunity for retailers to see and experience our latest offerings firsthand in their own parking lots.

How we market

 Our Unconventional Furniture Market Adventure

After countless nights in our hotel rooms traveling on the road, Rick and I decided to change up our furniture market experience. Our solution? Turning market week into a camping trip!  We both pull our campers and set up side by side creating our own home away from home at Oak Hollow Lake and Campground, just a stone's throw from High Point Market. It's like combining work with a mini-vacation!

Post-market days, you'll find us at our campsite, firing up Rick's trusty green egg grill. Nothing beats unwinding by the lake with the smell of barbecue in the air - it's the perfect antidote to a day of intense market negotiations.

This setup isn't just about avoiding room service and mini-bars. It's our way of creating a fun, relaxed space where we can decompress, brainstorm, and maybe even strike a deal or two under the stars.

Curious about our market "glamping" experience? Swing by our campsite next time you're at High Point. We might just convince you to trade in your hotel key for a camping chair!

Rick Wahlert

Back in 2022, Rick Wahlert and I teamed up, bringing a whopping 60+ years of combined experience in the Home Furnishings industry to the table.

Rick's been in this game for 39 years, and get this - he was my Dad's rep for Sauder and Standard Furniture at our family store, Cobern Furniture. My earliest memories? Grumbling about Rick while assembling those endless KD boxes of Sauder furniture. So. Many. Pieces. And don't get me started on the screws and wood glue!

But you know what? I've finally forgiven him (wink), and I'm actually super grateful that he trusted me enough to bring me into his fold and the amazing legacy he's built.

If you're ever at the furniture market, keep an eye out for us by the lake. We'll be the ones grilling on Rick's green egg. It's become our thing!

Rick's a bit of a legend in Georgia, just like my Dad, Robert Bee. He's built some rock-solid relationships with his retail partners over the years. I'm learning from the best!

But here's something really special about Rick - we share the same heart for fostering. Rick has fostered and raised several children as his own. It's just another way he shows his big heart and commitment to making a difference in people's lives, both in and out of the furniture business.

Can't wait to see you at the next market!