NC woman holds national essay contest to give away farm

BENNET, NC (CNN) A Chatham County woman is giving away her 13-acre farm to the winner of an essay contest.

Norma Burns sits in her white wooden chair overlooking the Bluebird Hill Farm, her home for the last 18 years.

But Burns believes it’s time for a new chapter.

“It’s too much work for one person. I’ve worked from dawn til dark for most of the 18 years. My body won’t let me do it anymore,” she said.

So she launched the “Gift of Good Land” essay contest. Contestants must submit a 200-word essay, resume and a $300 entry fee.

However, this contest is not for everyone.

Burns is looking for a special couple who are committed to farm life.

“The first person who called said, ‘Is this for real?’ And I said, ‘Yes it is. It’s for real.'”

Burns’ phone hasn’t stopped ringing about people asking about her farm.

“As soon as it went out it just kind of exploded. I’ve heard from people I haven’t heard from in 20 years. Calling and saying oh I wish I could have that farm. Most of them are too old. So it’s just been a real surprise. A pleasant surprise.”

Burns will choose the 20 best essays, then letting a panel of judges make the final decision.

After she leaves the farm., Burns plans to live in a retirement community in Chapel Hill.

The deadline to submit an essay is Jun. 1.

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