Old West Durham Walk

 

Old West Durham —Image of The Common Market 

Old West Durham Walk: The Common Market, Parlour (Junior), and Local Finds on Hillsborough Road

On a 78-degree, overcast January day, I walked Old West Durham and finally stopped into a few Hillsborough Road spots I’ve driven past for years—proof that parking and walking change what you notice.

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January 10 in Durham: the kind of “winter” day that makes you walk and explore. 

Today had big “North Carolina winter refuses to commit” energy—warm, gray skies, and weirdly perfect for being out in the world.

It was also one of those days where work and life blended in the best way:

• I met with past clients, and we had the kind of real conversation people have when listing starts to feel real: timing, prep, what matters, what doesn’t, and the emotional part nobody puts on the checklist.

• I talked with a new first-time buyer, which always reminds me how brave it is to start—especially when you’re trying to make a smart decision in a market that doesn’t exactly hand you a user manual.

• And then I got to do my favorite kind of reset: a walk-and-catch-up with a friend who lives nearby… and the funny part is, even though she lives close, we both realized we’ve been guilty of the same thing—driving past places for years and never walking in.

Walking fixes that.

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Old West Durham, Durham, NC: history you can feel on a sidewalk

Old West Durham is one of Durham’s older neighborhoods and was once known as Pin Hook, a small settlement that existed before Durham became the railroad town we know today. For more details on the history, go to Old West Durham.

It’s the kind of area where you notice the details when you slow down: older streets, mature trees, front porches that look like they’ve hosted actual conversations, and houses that feel like they’ve been paying attention for a while. (If you’ve ever wondered why some neighborhoods feel instantly “lived-in,” it’s not magic. It’s sidewalks + porches + time.)

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Where we stopped in Old West Durham (Hillsborough Road area)

The Common Market (finally!)
I have driven past The Common Market on more occasions than I’m comfortable admitting. Today I actually went in like a responsible adult who lives in Durham. It’s a deli + coffee bar + bar + market kind of place—built to feel like a neighborhood living room, not a quick errand. Loved the option for indoor and outdoor seating. I had green tea. The service was nice.

The Parlour Junior (local favorite, walk-up window) 

Tucked right at The Common Market is The Parlour Junior, a walk-up scoop window serving a smaller menu—scoops, shakes, toppings—and it’s absolutely one of those places that turns a “quick walk” into “we should get ice cream because it would be rude not to.”

Quickly Tea House (boba mission, activated) 

Another spot I’ve driven by forever: Quickly Tea House. It’s locally owned, and their site literally calls it “Durham’s Original Boba Tea Shop,” which made me feel both excited and slightly behind schedule. I'll be back.

Cocoa Cinnamon (always a crowd-pleaser)

I also have a soft spot for Cocoa Cinnamon, and it’s worth noting there are three Cocoa Cinnamon coffee shops in Durham—reliably good, reliably busy, and perfect when you want a meet-up location that won’t disappoint. I started my day with meetings at the Geer Street location. 

Smitten Boutique (style + humor, in the best way) 

Adding Smitten Boutique to the list because it’s one of those places that keeps Hillsborough Rd feeling like Hillsborough Rd: women’s boutique, gifts, and an unmistakably local personality. 

Tiny (because “I’m just looking” is a lie), I didn't capture a shot because I was so tempted to play. 

And while we’re talking about local favorites: Tiny on Ninth Street is a classic—kids’ boutique, gifts, and the kind of place you pop into for “one thing” and leave with three things you didn’t know you needed.

Trent & Hill (plus my “what used to be here?” mystery) 

We passed Trent & Hill, too—an event venue right there on Hillsborough Rd. I cannot remember which restaurant used to be in that spot, but I remember it was good, which is both helpful and completely unhelpful. If you know what it was, tell me.

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Coming soon in Old West Durham: Hops & Flower and Jean’s By the Sea

Two new openings I’m watching:

Hops & Flower

Hops & Flower is a modern neighborhood bodega concept planned for 2014 Hillsborough Road (next to Vin Rouge). The folks behind Luna are opening it, and, side note: if you have not tried the Peruvian chicken and spicy bacon collards at Luna, add them to your list. I need to try more of their menu, but I always go back to the same things. 

Jean’s By the Sea 

Jean’s By the Sea (formerly the Wimpy's Grill space) is calling itself a neighborhood fish shack, opening in 2026 at 617 Hicks Street in Durham.

I fully plan to check it out when it opens—purely for professional neighborhood research, obviously.

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The real point of the day: walking shows you what driving hides

Here’s what I keep learning (and re-learning): you notice more on foot than you ever will driving by.

Walking shows you:

• how the neighborhood moves (quiet? social? dog-walk central?)

• where people gather

• the porch life, the sidewalk life, the “oh wow, I’ve never seen that before” life

Walking a neighborhood tells you what a drive-by never can—the pace, the porch life, and the everyday details you miss when you’re just passing through. It’s also why I always encourage buyers (and future sellers) to slow down and really feel an area before making big decisions.

And honestly, it makes me better at my job. Because a home isn’t just the house—it’s how you live around it.

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Your turn

Quick question: What’s one Durham spot you’ve driven past forever but still haven’t tried? Where should I explore next in the city I love and call home? 

From “Don’t Touch” to Tree Skirt

 

Somewhere along the way, I decided I wanted this quilt to see the light of day. It’s a riot of color—deep reds, purples, blues, paisleys, stripes, and patterns going every which way. My great-grandmother on my dad’s side made it from men’s ties, after asking the men at her church to hand over the ones they were no longer wearing. From what I’ve learned, the ties in this quilt are probably from somewhere between the 1940s and 1970s, when wide, bold neckties were having their moment. She took those retired ties, sliced them into strips, and stitched them into this dazzling, starburst-style quilt that feels like it’s humming with stories.

For the last few years, I’ve used it as our Christmas tree skirt. It feels a little rebellious and a lot right. There’s something beautiful about all those old church ties, once worn to Sunday services and weddings and funerals, now circling the base of a tree full of new memories. Growing up, my mom was very protective of the quilt—in the best way. She wanted to keep it safe so it could be passed down. I like to think that if she were here, she’d see it under the tree, smile, and say, “Well… I guess that is a pretty special occasion.” I honestly believe she’d come around and be delighted that the quilt is a Christmas tradition—no longer tucked away in a closet, but right in the center of the celebration.

This year, I treated my real estate clients to family mini photo sessions. I wanted to give them something that doesn’t just live on a phone or in a camera roll, but can be printed, framed, and passed around. Where my great-grandmother repurposed old ties into something beautiful, my hope is that these photos become the modern equivalent of an heirloom quilt—something that tells the story of a family, a moment, a home.

~ Stacie

What Buyers & Sellers Worry About — and How to Tackle It

 

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people ever make — so it’s no surprise that fear creeps in. The good news? Every fear has a fix when you have the right plan and the right guide.

Buyers’ Top Fears

• Overpaying → A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) shows what homes are really worth so you can make confident offers.

• Hidden Problems → Home inspections protect you and give options to repair, negotiate, or walk away.

• Financing Falling Through → Getting fully pre-approved (not just pre-qualified) reduces surprises and strengthens your offer.

• Regret → Defining “must-haves” vs. “nice-to-haves” keeps decisions clear and stress-free.

Sellers’ Top Fears

• Not Getting the Price They Want → Pricing right from the start attracts more buyers, leading to stronger offers.

• Home Not Selling Quickly → Professional staging, marketing, and exposure create momentum.

• Repair Requests → Buyers often ask, but you’re not required to fix everything. We’ll negotiate fairly.

• Deals Falling Apart → A proactive agent monitors every step to prevent delays and keep contracts moving.

Fear loses its power when you have clear information and a trusted advocate on your side. That’s where I come in — to guide you through each step, keep surprises to a minimum, and help you make the best decisions for your future.

Contact me today to discuss your options — whether you’re buying, selling, or just weighing the possibilities.

~Stacie Dye (919) 475-9460

 

Ways to Come Up With a Down Payment

One of the biggest hurdles for buyers isn’t finding the right home—it’s coming up with the down payment. The good news? With a little creativity and planning, you may have more options than you think. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. Automate Your Savings

Set up a separate account just for your down payment and automate a transfer each payday. Even small, consistent amounts add up faster than you realize.

2. Cut & Redirect

Review your monthly spending. Could you pause a subscription, cook at home more often, or put a hold on that extra streaming service? Redirect even $100–$200 a month toward your down payment fund.

3. Side Hustles & Seasonal Work

From tutoring to pet-sitting to holiday retail shifts, a short-term side hustle can turn into thousands saved in a year.

4. Leverage Gifts or Loans from Family

Some loan programs allow family gifts to count toward your down payment. If your family is willing and able, this can be a meaningful way to get a jump start.

5. Employer or Community Assistance Programs

Check if your workplace or local organizations offer homebuyer grants. Many cities and counties have down payment assistance programs for first-time buyers.

6. Tap Into “Hidden” Assets

Consider selling items you no longer need, such as unused furniture, electronics, or an extra car. Many buyers fund part of their down payment with yard sales, Facebook Marketplace, or consignment.

7. Explore Lower Down Payment Options

You don’t always need 20%. FHA, VA, and some conventional loans allow as little as 3–5% down. Pairing these programs with your savings can make homeownership more achievable sooner than you expect.

8. Consider a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

If you already own a home and have built up equity, a HELOC may allow you to borrow against it for your next down payment. This strategy isn’t for everyone—but when used wisely, it can be a bridge to your next purchase.

To wrap it all together, here’s one more thought. Building a down payment may feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps makes it more achievable. With the right strategy—and the proper guidance—you can get there. I’ll be glad to recommend one of my preferred lenders for you to discuss your options with. Contact me today to start the conversation.

~Stacie Dye (919) 475-9460

Reunited and it feels so Good!

 

Reunited, and it feels so good were the lyrics I started singing when Delta delivered my luggage to my home. This was a 1978 hit by Peaches and Herbs (google it), and I laughed when it came to mind. Isn't it amazing how our brains recall lyrics, events, quotes, and stories?

I just experienced one of the best real estate conferences in the past 18 years (Peak Experience with Brian Buffini -More to come). I thought about how my luggage was tied into the Customer Service we all hope to deliver in business. I had 6 flight delays and 1 flight cancellation. When I say that some people were huffy at the airport, that would be an understatement. It's annoying when things inconvenience us; however, my perspective was different. I was intrigued by the customer service I witnessed. Traveling is a privilege and can be challenging. Thank you, Delta, for not flying me home through tornados and hail. Thank you for keeping your employees and us safe. Thank you for keeping me informed throughout the process. Thank you for delivering my luggage on two separate trips as it arrived. Isn't that what we all want? I thanked the representative when I stood in line to ask about my flight options. He stopped, looked me dead in my eyes, and smiled with a big exhale. He said you're the first thank you of the day. He said I've been waiting for just one thank you because I usually get at least one. It was 10PM, and I don't know when his shift started. I heard the unreasonable criticism and harsh language he endured before me. I watched him be the ultimate professional, speaking calmly and with an assuring tone. He did a great job under high pressure. Come on, people! Good Customer service is not always the standard these days. It hurts me to say that, and I always want to give credit to those who honor it. It also encourages me to improve my business and services. 

I lost the only jacket I packed at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. The locals told me to wear layers, and I did. They said if you don't like the weather, it will change in 15 minutes, and that seemed to be the case. That morning, it was cold; that afternoon, it was in the high 80s. I don't remember losing clothing before, but I got startled when my home alarm went off (tech issue) and left my jacket. I realized it several hours later and reported it to the hotel. I described it, and they said it was secure. They could not deliver it then, and it was secure, so I couldn't pick it up. They asked where I would be at 7PM. I told them I planned to attend a networking dinner and gave them the restaurant's name. The security officer of the hotel delivered my jacket before the appetizers arrived. Wow! The Broadmoor provided exceptional customer service then and throughout the conference. 

These situations and the conference have made me question how to enhance my company standards and customer service. What do you need as a Seller or Buyer that is beyond my current business plan? I want to know the best ways to provide exceptional service. 

Travel tips: Take a picture of your bags and luggage receipt stickers. Use multiple luggage tags. The Velcro name tag was the only one returning on this trip. This is a great gift for those who travel. Place your name and details inside your bag. Use Airtags and check the batteries. Text yourself and your loved ones the airline code and flight number. It's the fastest way to preview flight changes. For the love of God, clean your luggage (especially the wheels) before bringing it inside your home. I like to use alcohol and magic erasers. Be Kind, or Stay Home! 😊

Celebrating working by referral!

 

I received this recognition in the mail a few days ago and have reflected on its meaning. When I started in Real Estate 17 years ago, I had no idea what the adventure would be. I was a burned-out social worker that needed a change. I have always loved working with people, looking at homes, architecture, and decorating. When I visited Durham in 2005, I didn't want to go home. I LOVED it and still do. I took a leap of faith by changing careers and moving to another state. Did I mention I didn't know anyone in NC or how to sell Real Estate? That didn't stop me!

The behind-the-scenes in our industry is that it can be isolating. It can be challenging if you are used to synergizing with others because of a scarcity mentality. I was introduced to other Real Estate Coaching companies early on and immediately felt panic at their suggested business approach. I was confident I needed help to grow and knew I would only excel at methods that resonated with me. I also wanted to avoid meeting strangers in empty homes, so I needed to figure something out quickly. 

In 2006 I was introduced to Brian Buffini through video and CDs. His approach was Working By Referral. He is a gifted Real Estate Coach who worked as a successful Realtor for years and now owns the largest Real Estate Coaching company, Buffini and Company. He shared a 5 Circle Approach to Life with an Irish accent (I'm sure that drew me in), including Spirituality, Family, Business, Finances, and Personal. I was all in! This made sense to me and gave me hope. 

Ten years ago, I took another leap of faith and signed up for Coaching. I'm a student for life, and anything I can do to help myself and others is still exciting. The best part of this long-term business commitment is the relationships along the way. Attending the events feels like a family reunion, even when meeting new people. I've met Real Estate Agents throughout the country that are now part of my network. It is a blessing to be around like-minded people that take time away from life to improve themselves, be authentic and vulnerable, and strive to compete with themselves instead of others. The general belief is there is an abundance of business opportunities available to us all, and we all have different goals and want different things. 

I'm so grateful to work 100% by referrals and appreciate your continued support of me and my business. There is no greater honor than for me to serve you, your family, friends, and colleagues. If you or someone you know can benefit from my services or need a referral in the US or Canada, contact me at (919) 475-9460. I'm here to help and appreciate the opportunity. 

~Stacie 

 

More than a Coffee...

Have you been to 321 Coffee in Durham yet? I walked in just before closing last week and was greeted with a smile and good coffee. The Downtown Durham location is exploding with new construction and activity. Parking was easy in the garage (small fee). I loved all the natural light pouring in and the clean, modern decor. However, my favorite part of the experience was the people. The shop is staffed by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have a lot of love to give. I love this concept and look forward to going again! The sandwiches and sweet treats are from Ninth Street Bakery, a local favorite.

Exploring Durham! Where should I go next?

I've decided to start exploring Durham and The Triangle Area! Do you ever feel like you're in a rut and do the same thing every day? I do! I used to pride myself on knowing what was going on in Durham with new businesses, restaurants, museums, parks, historic sites, activities, and communities. Many of us feel that way since we've been isolated for the last few years. I keep asking everyone I talk to what they do for fun, and guess what? I'm not alone. We're caught up in daily life and need to plan time for fun. This is a public service announcement - IT'S OK TO HAVE SOME FUN! Have we learned anything from the last few years? I'm ready to get back out there and explore. Do you want to join me? Do you have any suggestions? Where should I go next? Will you invite me? I want this to be an interactive experience for us all. Share a place or event that you're looking forward to. 

Let's have some fun! 

These are pictures of a recent Tuesday Night adventure to Aperitif, a dessert wine bar in Durham. I laughed about being out at night even though I was home by 9PM. Hey, it's a start! They are known for their extensive wine list, unique cocktails, small tasty bites, and relaxing atmosphere! There is plenty of parking, and it's a great place to watch the sunset, spend time with friends, or on a date night. Our waitress was great and provided excellent recommendations and service. I look forward to going back and enjoying the outdoor seating. 

This place is a gem! Have you been? 

A Touch of Color!

I've been tweaking a few areas in my home lately, and I'm obsessed with removable wallpaper. I know, I always tell you that you need to stick with neutral colors and that your home will sell for more money if buyers can see themselves living there and I will continue to stand by that proven fact. I'm not selling my home though and I LOVE COLOR! This accent wall is just enough.

Wallpaper you ask? Yes, I have memories of scraping off old wallpaper used in the past, chipping my fingernails, inhaling all the yuck that comes with it, and swearing that I would never hang wallpaper again but this is different. This is removable, easy, and can add a simple change that brings JOY. The hardest part is matching the pattern. It is pretty forgiving if you need to pull it up a few times to get it right. Wallpaper is trending again. What do you think?

A Long Goodbye...

My Mama, Sandra Dye (aka Sandra Dee), peacefully died on 2-2-22. Most of you met her during the past 6 + years I cared for her. You met at client appreciation events, at our home, when she rode shotgun on appointments or gave out pop by gifts with me. Toward the last few years, she came with a warning because I never knew what she would say or, more accurately, what the Alzheimer's version of her would say. She shared stories with colorful details and lots of enthusiasm. The stories were magical and partly true except for what was made up or embellished. You never blinked in supporting me or embracing her. Thank you!

The last two years have been brutal watching the constant change and adapting minute by minute. It was a huge learning curve and many dark days. However, the consistency of going to work gave me energy and purpose with more control than what was going on at home.

During this time, my business continued to grow, and you continued to send me referrals. Thank You! 2021 was my best year in business to date and my most challenging personal year ever. Actually, the low inventory has made work ten times harder too. I'm in awe at your continued support of me and my business, but it's much more than that. Many of you have become close friends and chosen family. (By the way, this is not a requirement for future clients) How amazing is that? You pitched in and offered to sit with Mama, bring meals, run errands, called to check-in, texted, sent cards of encouragement, brainstormed with me on her care needs, and provided her a source of endless cookies (her favorite). I'm honored by your level of compassion! Thank you to the Buyers who met me on appointments at 6 AM so I could be home when Mama was awake during her last days. Thank you to the clients that waited until I could get her to sleep to discuss the multiple offers on your home and negotiations late into the evening. Your patience was a gift and helped me more than you will ever know.  

Mama was at peace and so full of gratitude and love for me. Her last words were, I love you. She was bedridden and could barely talk in her last days. Some of you witnessed her love for music, so I wanted to share that the day before she died, the music therapist (Heartland Hospice) brought her guitar and started singing Amazing Grace over her. Mom had not been responding for over 4 hours. She opened her eyes and raised her hands. I thought she would praise God, but in true form, she started mimicking air guitar and sang every verse. I cried like a water faucet was turned on. It was a beautiful glimpse of PURE JOY! She rested, and a few songs later, she gave us shoulder action and sang All Shook Up by Elvis. That was the last spurt of the spunky personality shared on earth, and I know she danced right into heaven. I'm blessed to feel her presence with me daily, even though the loss is enormous.  

Thank you for being a part of our life! Thank you for letting me serve you and your Real Estate referrals! Thank you for serving me with so much more! I hope you will enjoy eating a warm cookie in Mama's honor! 

 

💗 Stacie

 

Checking in + Care Act Info

I hope this message finds you doing well! If you have specific Real Estate needs, please contact me directly at (919)475-9460. We are fortunate that our market will hold up strong during this time.

Please watch this video. 

I feel a strong need to reach out to you and have been making calls daily. We are all facing new challenges and I wanted to offer some hope and clarify some misconceptions about the Cares Act. Please don't feel ashamed if you need assistance at this time. The information is difficult to go through. This link will provide some highlights of valuable knowledge and needs that people are facing. Please share it with others.

If you are not able to pay your mortgage or rent due to circumstances of unemployment from COVID 19, contact them directly to discuss your needs and be sure you understand what your mortgage vendor is offering. I genuinely believe that you need to be proactive in your efforts. Forbearance is not forgiveness. If you don't understand the options, contact your accountant or legal advisor. Call me if you need a referral for those services.

Your Friend in Real Estate
~Stacie Dye

Not Cancelled ... Postponed

Pictures from my walk yesterday afternoon.

This week has been hard for many of us, including me. I've felt overwhelmed by reading the cancellations of events, classes, work, social gatherings, travel, business closings, weddings, graduations, and the list goes on. We've been doing our part in social distancing and self-isolation while being concerned for family and friends that are at high risk. Concerned for people that I care deeply for that are in the medical field and that are our front line defenders. Everyone is consumed with current data, death rates, newly confirmed cases, testing, politics, media, and toilet paper.  

As I started to reflect on the disappointments that we're all experiencing, I was reminded that Joy isn't canceled, neither is Hope. I also shifted my perspective from canceled to postponed. That feels SO much better! This is our season for now, and the sooner we all participate in the recommended guidelines, the quicker we will get to a new normal. 

I've been working on my mindset more diligently than ever because I can only control my efforts and attitude. My attitude took a dark hit this week and I experienced several days of negativity before getting back on track. So I thought others may benefit from tools I've used to mind shift. 

Our church had a series titled Anxious for Nothing recently and will be diving deeper into that in the next weeks with online services. I'm looking forward to it and encourage you to listen no matter what your beliefs are. I church hopped for years before joining newhope church. Dr. Benji Kelley, Senior Pastor has a gift to share God's word that grabs your attention makes you want to learn and discuss it more. All with a good sense of humor. 

Mel Robbins, talk show host and author of many books including The 5 Second Rule is hosting a Facebook live check-in Group called Stay Connected with Mel Robbins at noon daily with raw honesty and wonderful tips. I was fortunate to see her live at an event in the past. 

Are you concerned about the health of our economy or the real estate market? I'm a huge fan of Brian Buffini Podcast and have been utilizing his systems and coaching for years. This is an awesome podcast with Dr. Laurence Yun. I suggest subscribing because he provides a wealth of knowledge on a weekly basis with an Irish accent, great humor, and a passionate spirit. 

Please do your part in social distancing. You can still experience Joy and Hope! We're in this together! Call and check on folks, offer to help physically, financially, or emotionally if you can. I believe that we will come out stronger and more united than ever. Look for the Joy! Since we have been slowed down, I find it more often. I don't think that is a coincidence. Please join us on our Your Connection Realty Facebook page and share your joy and helpful tips to encourage a positive mindset. 

These are some pictures of the Joy I found in nature yesterday. 

~ Stacie Dye (919)475-9460 

Leap Year 2020

Home values have made GREAT Leaps! Contact us to discuss the value of your "Pad" in today's market. It is a great time to sell and I will be glad to prepare a Market Analysis on your home. If you plan on staying it may be a great time to refinance and I have a list of wonderful Mortgage Brokers ready to assist you. 

Stacie Dye | Your Connection Realty | 919-475-9460

Parade of Homes!

The Parade of Homes is happening today! Have fun on a FREE Self Guided Tour! If you have any interest or questions about the homes, contact us for guidance. For more details take a look at the Triangle Parade of Homes link. 

How are you growing?

School is starting back, and many thoughts recently struck me. I was an average student in school, I didn't want to be there and rarely enjoyed it. I stayed under the radar and drifted through the process. I excelled in college because that was on my terms and interest. When I decided to go into Real Estate, I was surprised by the amount of class time it took to be able to take the licensing test. The surprises continued when I had an NC Real Estate Licence and didn't know how to help consumers sell or buy real estate. The class and licensing were based on rules, laws, guidelines which are needed skills but NOT enough. There is so much more to the process. I was fortunate to have some great mentors along the way, and now that support and challenge me to grow.  I also developed a passion for learning that helps keep me fired up!

During the year, I attend my required continuing education requirements plus more. I just returned from one of my favorite events, the Buffini and Company Mastermind. This event fuels my soul, and I highly recommend it! The focus is on Relationships, Business, Finances, Spirituality, and Health. I always have written goals in each area, and it's great to be surrounded by other like-minded people of all ages, from multiple businesses, different levels of achievements and income that share a hunger for growth.

With a lot of praying and faith that the best is yet to come, I have found people, books, blogs, podcast, classes, and life experiences that have gratefully impacted my life. Some life lessons have been heartbreaking, and others have been mind-opening. As a Christian, I understand that timing is not in my hands and that there are no coincidences. I read a devotional, pray, journal, limit my access to the news, fill my head with positive information, have accountability partners that I talk with every Monday at 8:00 AM, and a business coach call twice a month. I have goals that scare me and that I don't know how I will achieve them. I also know that you're either growing or dying, and I choose growth! What are you doing to grow?

~Stacie

Favorite Good Stuff: The Brian Buffini Show, Darren Daily, 12 Week Year, You Version Bible app, Dr. Fung IDM Program

Are you able to help with my Birthday Wish?

Today,  I'm 49 years old and feel Super Blessed! Through the years, my birthday has always been a special celebration for me. I love celebrating other peoples Birthdays just as much as mine. I'm that awkward person that joins in singing Happy Birthday at restaurants and claps when strangers are celebrating Birthdays. I have been known to hug them too. 

When I reflect on childhood Birthday parties, I get nostalgic and warm fuzzies thinking about them. I had a Barbee Doll themed party with a doll shaped cake, a joint Skating Party with a childhood friend and many Pool Parties as a child. My Mama always worked hard to make the occasion fun. Honestly, I thought the 4th of July celebrations were also for me until my brother busted my bubble.

I use to celebrate the entire month because why not? We should celebrate life as often as possible. When I turned 40, I bought myself a gift once a month and had a meal with a different loved one, part of my tribe or family once a month. It was a phenomenal experience! 

Are you willing to help me celebrate this year? I need your help! I will be turning 50 next year, and my wish is to Volunteer my time and resources to 50 organizations before December 31, 2020. I can't do this alone because it would take a crazy amount of time to organize such a goal. There are 52 weeks in a year, and that is why my target to complete this goal is the end of 2020. I already have some commitments on the calendar and would love to hear what organizations, churches, and non-profits that you're passionate about and how I may contribute. So don't hesitate to reach out because this is my wish and you can help make it happen. 

~Stacie

Unplugged for 14 Days! Take my Challenge...

I just returned from a 14 Day Vacation traveling from New England to Nova Scotia. I'm beyond grateful for this opportunity and couldn't have done it without a fantastic business partner that covered me, a team of excellent service providers that I trust and my clients encouraging me.  I'm blessed, surrounded by people that make me better, challenge me daily by reminding me of self-care and travel that fills my sweet soul. 

The truth is I packed the morning we left; I was exhausted from checking and triple checking all of my notes on current business, future business + all of the details that are involved in everyday life. The night before leaving, I slept maybe 2.5 hours, not due to excitement but still checking off list after list. I was determined to turn off all technology notifications at 8:00 AM until I returned, and I did it! Well, I did use my phone to find a good Lobster Restaurant in Maine, for taking pictures, and that doesn't count. I thought it would be harder to unplug than it was, and believe that since I diligently prepared, it felt GOOD. 

Have you ever really unplugged from technology? Our brains need the rest! We are not made to stay as connected as we are to phones, text, emails, computers, audible books, podcast, social media, TV, The News, etc. How many times a day do you search online or ask Siri or Alexa a question? I often say, "I'll Google it," in conversations. Technology is an excellent resource,  it's convenient, and I'm a huge fan. 

I challenge you to write down the number of times you respond or use any form of technology for one day. The challenge may sound overwhelming for some. Do you feel like technology is addictive? Trust me, I felt like a slave to technology before my escape. I survived and felt like I was handed a gift equally as good as my vacation.  Since returning, I'm more consciously aware of tracking my connected time.  Ask me how I'm doing when you see me. Take my challenge and update me on if your goal is to unplug for a few hours, days, or weeks. What is the worse that could happen? You may improve your relationships, memory, sleep, health, attitude, and increase your work performance afterward.  

The search was worth it! Yum! 

Full Frame + Free Events

As many of you already know,  I'm a big fan of Full Frame Documentary Film Festival and grateful to have a business partner that will cover me while I volunteer (look for me on the plaza or in Fletcher) and binge on as many films as possible from April 4-7, 2019. I hope you already have your passes because there are only 2 options left. Yikes! There have been changes from the past year so you want to make sure you know the guidelines before standing in line. The last-minute line requires a pass this year, and you can't pay cash at the line so come prepared with a Rush Pass or other Passes. 

FREE Events! We all love free so plan on joining in on the fun. I've had the pleasure of seeing both RBG and Won't you be my Neighbor? They are both great! 

Friday ~ FREE Screening of RBG 8- 10:15PM at Motorco
               (No ticket required)

               Late Night Bash 9-11:00PM Unscripted Durham
               (No ticket required)

Saturday ~ FREE Screening of Won't you be my Neighbor?  
                  8:30-10:10PM at Durham Central Park (Outdoor)
                  (No ticket required)
               
Sunday ~ School of Doc, Closing Night Film
                2:30-3:30 at Cinema 2
                (No ticket required)
                
~ Stacie