What breed should we get into?

[Pathfinders]

Buckeyes fit all of your criteria, and there are some excellent breeders of Buckeyes in your own home state of NC, not the least of whom is Jeannette Beranger, who works for the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. Here's a list of Buckeye breeders in your region:

http://www.americanbuckeyepoultryclub.com/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=34

And you can read more about the breed on my website here: http://www.pathfindersfarm.com/Buckeyes

But whatever breed you choose, good luck, and have fun!