Chilhuly in Alamance until October 15, 2016!

Alamance Arts, Graham, NC

I have been following Dale Chihuly's work for over 25 years and recently enjoyed the Chihuly Gardens in Seattle. I love that Alamance Arts in Graham, NC has the largest privately owned collection on display now until October 15, 2016. This is a beautiful collection and I encourage you to view it while it is in NC. 

The Chandelier came in 1500 pieces and took 2 men 3 days to install. It cost $10,000 to get it to NC, $10,000 to get it hung and will cost $10,000 for it to be shipped back to its owner. They also had to add rreinforcement to the ceiling before installing. The endowment paid $150,000 to meet all of the requirements for shipping and installation and it's FREE to the public. Take a look at a few pictures below. 

Durham Happenings! Live, Work, Eat and Play!

I love sharing GOOD news about Durham! Here we grow again! 

Take a look at the following New Restaurants, Distilleries, Hotels, Businesses, Places to Live and Accolades! 

Let's Dish since Durham was named Tastiest Town in the South! 

New Restaurants...

• Bar Virgile - Tapas/Small Plates 
• Basan- Japanese Cuisine and Sushi
• Dashi- Japanese Ramen Shop 
• Pompieri Pizza-Italian
• Burger Bach- Burgers and Seafood 
• JuJu Durham- Asian Tapas 
• Monuts- Donuts

Recent Restaurant Accolades...

• Mateo- Tapas
• Rose's Meat Market- Meats and Sweets
• Alley 26- Cocktails and more
• Primal- Gluten Free Food and Spirits 

Distilleries...

• Durham Distillery- Gin
• Brothers Vilgalys
• Revival Spirits Distillery

Hotels...

• 21c Museum Hotel- 125-room boutique hotel, contemporary art museum
• Aloft Durham- Opening July 2015 (beside DPAC)
• The Durham Hotel - 54-room boutique hotel targeted to open by May 2015 in the former Mutual Community Savings Bank building at 315 E. Chapel Hill St.
• Residence Inn by Marriott-The former McPherson Hospital (Trinity Park) will be redeveloped into a 125 room Residence Inn. Opening June 2015
• Jack Tar Hotel- Will Open 2016. Previously known as the “Oprah Building”, was built in 1962. It sits on the edge of CCB Plaza. 

Where to Live in Durham? Call Stacie 1st at 919-475-9460!

• 539 Foster- Condos (Durham Central Park)
• Church and Main- Condos (A few units are available)
• City Center - (possibly 30 condo units) 
• Apartments Rentals
• Liberty Warehouse

For More Durham Accolades

Full Frame Film Festival April 9-12th!

Take a look at the following details and links for FREE Screenings and tips to enjoy Full Frame Film Festival! 

49 NEW DOCS and 21 Invited Program films including 11 World Premieres, 13 North American Premieres, and two U.S. Premieres. The Full Frame Tribute, presented to Oscar®-nominated filmmaker Marshall Curry, and featuring many of his films. "The True Meaning of Pictures," our Thematic Program, featuring six carefully selected films curated by esteemed filmmaker Jennifer Baichwal. Three thought-provoking Center Frames: 3 1/2 MINUTES, the World Premiere of HARRY & SNOWMAN, and BLACK PANTHERS: VANGUARD OF THE REVOLUTION, featuring extended Q&As with film directors and subjects. Free screenings including our Closing Night Film, SUNSHINE SUPERMAN, and free indoor and outdoor screenings of DINOSAUR 13 and LOVE IS ALL on Friday and Saturday nights. Outdoor screenings take place at Durham Central Park, and feature Food Truck Round-ups before the films start. The A&E IndieFilms Speakeasy Conversations, stimulating panel discussions about topics relevant to today's documentary community, featuring leaders of the documentary field. And much much more! Full Frame is where the documentary community comes to see and share in each other's work while experiencing amazing Southern hospitality, all in the heart of downtown Durham, Don't miss out on this chance to see incredible films, meet fascinating people from all over the world, and partake in our area's coolest cultural event!   Click here for the weekend's schedule.  Brought to you by: Full Frame Festival

Durham Performing Arts Center Announces New Season!

Durham Performing Arts Center just announced the 2015/2016 Broadway Season Performances and I'm Super Excited! I've been a season ticket holder since the doors opened. Take a look at the new line up and encore shows. 

Music & Summer Fun!

I love attending outdoor concerts with family and friends this time of year! This is just a quick reminder of some of my favorites. Hope to see you at one of the events soon! 

Backdoor Music on the Lawn There will be 8 FREE (3 hour) concerts on Thursday nights from May to September. The shows start at 6:00 PM and most feature two bands. Picnics and coolers are welcome but no glass, please. Food and beverages are also available at the American Tobacco restaurants that surround the Amphitheater. Concerts are held next to the Lucky Strike Water tower.   

"Find Your Cool" Summer Concert Series Is an annual concert series put on by Downtown Durham, Inc. and held on Thursday nights at the CCB Plaza (where "Major the Bull" statue is located). Concerts are 7-8:30 and will feature eclectic bands. 

Rock the Park Music and Concert Series Is sponsored by Durham Parks and Recreation and occurs on Saturday evenings at various local parks around Durham. Music runs 6-8:00 PM and movies are 8-10:00 PM. 

Music in the Gardens  is a summer music series held at Sarah P. Duke Gardens, on the lawn beside the visitor center. The concerts are on Wednesdays and start at 7:00 PM.

Brightleaf Square Concert Series  is a popular free venue because you can dine outside and enjoy the lovely setting of the historic district. Concerts last from 7-9:00 PM.

Music on Main is being brought back at the Streets of Southpoint Mall. The concerts are held outside close to the movie theater and are 6-9:00 PM. 

Blues on The Plaza Northgate Mall is getting in on the action and kicking off a concert series on Fridays from 6-9:00 PM.

Take a look at these links for more fun events happening in Durham and The Triangle. Free Outdoor Music in The Triangle and Things to do in Durham.

Full Frame Festival 2014

I'm super EXCITED about the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival on April 3rd- 6th. I'm honored to be volunteering again this year but wanted to make sure you saw the Film List that was just released today. Take a look at the website, make plans to attend and check out the Free Screenings that are available. This is a fantastic event! The passes have already sold out but tickets will go on sale March 27th so mark your calendar. 

In feature films the director is God; in documentary films God is the director. 
~Alfred Hitchcock

Movie Madness 2013...

I absolutely LOVE going to the movies and it's a family and friends tradition to view as many movies as possible between Thanksgiving and the New Year. So I thought it was appropriate to share our reviews with you. Take a look and we hope to see you in the movies...

Last Vegas I actually saw this film twice because I went to the free screening too. This movie was just a blast to watch! More than just comedy this is a great story about family, friendship and loyalty. 

The Best Man Holiday - This was a funny, then heartwarming, then hilarious and then brought tears to my eyes. Good Stuff!


The Book Thief- This is an Award Winning movie! We fell in love with Sophie Nélisse the main character. This is an emotional, sweet, passionate story that is filled with hope during the horrors of World War II, Germany. 

Dallas Buyers Club- This was a fantastic performance by Matthew McConaughey (not in his usual pretty boy state). Jarred Leto was phenomenal too. This was based on a true story and it was Raw, Rough, Edgy and Real. 

Philomena- What a pleasant surprise! We had never seen a trailer or heard about this movie and it was great! This was a gentle, fascinating, funny, heartbreaking and unforgettable film. This film brought the most discussion afterwards of how we handle forgiveness.

Frozen- Thank you Disney! I loved that that not every Princess needs a Prince. Visually Perfect! I borrowed a sassy little kid for this movie and we both enjoyed it. 

American Hustle- Fantastic Cast but sloooow at times. Meh! We were a little disappointed by the story but Loved the Fashion!

Black Nativity- (Musical) There were only a few people at this show and it got poor ratings but we enjoyed it. The story and cast were good. Sweet Film!

The Wolf of Wall Street- This is an insane true story! This was a film about bad people doing bad things and cheating other while doing so. I may need to seek therapy after viewing this film and I'm not sure if it was because of the film or the fact that I witnessed it with my Mom. Powerful performance by Leonardo DiCaprio but it was painful 3 hours of Glorifying Sex, Drugs, Cursing...Sex, Drugs, Cursing... Sex, Drugs, Cursing... all while being perverted with money and greed. This movie should have been Rated "NC-17" or "R" because it was intense. Whew!

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire- I'm not a Hunger Games follower but enjoyed this movie much more than the first one. 
The cinematography was beautiful, the Story and Characters were
strong! I loved the Costumes and want a butterfly dress and matching eyelashes now.  


Saving Mr. Banks- Delightful and Sweet! This film was well done and full of an unexpected darker storyline. The Cast was excellent and it's a must see movie whether you're a Mary Poppins fan or not. 

Tyler Perry's A Madea Christmas- Get Ready to LAUGH! It is hard to believe that Tyler Perry is still bringing us Madea but the movies never disappoint. It's not Oscar worthy but if you need a few hours of entertainment and laughter go for it.

Grudge Match- I had the opportunity to view the screening of this film before it was released. I didn't have much expectation and I'm not a Stallone fan but it was fun, lighthearted and had a nice story. Better-Than-Expected-Comedy. We went in with hope and were entertained. 

Spinning Plates- (Documentary) I missed this film at Full Frame but heard rave reviews so I was excited to finally see it. I was Blown Away and left the theater feeling like a better person by just watching the film. It is not just about food and restaurants. The story unfolds on many layers and is compelling and passionate. 


Please share what you have seen and would suggest! 

Help Durham-based Barley Labs win a Superbowl Ad!

Please help spread the news! How cool is this opportunity to support a local small business!  Take a look at the link and vote daily!

Get Durham's Barley Labs All-natural Dog Treats some airtime during the Super Bowl...#VoteforBarley.

Main Durham News Feed: Durham-based Barley Labs Named Top Four Finalist f...: Don't be surprised if, while watching the Super Bowl with friends and devouring a tasty snack from a local restaurant or enjoying a ...

I shared Barley Labs story with you about a year ago. They need our help so lets make this happen!

Parade of Homes for 2 more weekends!

                  
                              October 11-13, 18-20

CLICK HERE for a list of locations where the Parade Tour Magazine will be available.

CLICK HERE to view the 2013 Parade of 

Homes Tour Magazine!

Music is in the Air...Bluegrass, Pride and More!

This is a quick video about the Fantastic Jazz Festival I attended in Hillsborough last weekend! 

Take a look at the Fun scheduled around The Triangle this weekend! There is something for Everyone!

Click Here for More Details

Click Here for More Details

Click Here for More Details

Weekend Fun! Where should I go 1st?

This weekend there is a great lineup. Where are you going? I hope to see you out and about! I'm just sharing a few of my favorites. These are all perfect examples of why I love living in The Triangle! 

Click this Link for more details: Centerfest Durham

Click this Link for more details: Greek Festival Raleigh

Click this Link for more details: Hillsborough Jazz Festival

If none of these ideas strike your fancy check out the 

Durham Visitor Events Calendar! Just get out and have some fun!

Local Barbecue... good for the soul!

5650 US 15-501 N., Pittsboro, NC 27312

Last night at 7:55 p.m. I passed by Allen and Son BBQ in Pittsboro, NC. I was beyond tired and headed back to work for another 4 hours. I was exhausted and hungry and had been showing homes in the hot, sticky and crazy rainy day. I decided to call and see if they were still open when I got down the road a few miles. I was greeted with a warm welcome over the phone. The young man stated that they close at 8:00 p.m. I told him thank you and that I would come by another time because I had heard the food was delicious. He politely asked how far away I was and I told him. He suggested that I turn around and take a meal to go. He passed the phone off to a young lady that told me what was left and I placed a order of pulled pork bbq and coleslaw. I arrived at 8:07 and my dinner was waiting on me. I was horrified when I handed them my debt card and they told me they didn't accept cards. I of course didn't have cash or a checkbook. They said this happens often so make a note TAKE CASH. The young man was very kind and said well enjoy your meal and come see us again. What? Are you kidding me? I stood there just staring at them for a minute. I asked for the address and typed in the amount owed in my phone. I mailed them a check with a nice card and a tip.*)

I was so touched by the welcome I received. This was a great reminder of how a stranger can impact your day. They were so generous to wait on me to arrive, prepare a wonderful meal and greet me with kindness even after I didn't have the money to pay them. 

My meal was delicious and I ate it in my car. The portion was enough for 3 meals and I left with a full tummy and the hospitality warmed my soul. I wish I knew the name of the folks that waited on me to say Thank You! I also want to say Thank You to the owners. I will be back and suggest you visit them as well! 

Yum! Dinner in my car.

The Check is in the mail!

~Still in the Fast Lane~ Racing off the Bucket List!

The only thing better than personally being happy is watching someone you LOVE being filled with Crazy Exciting Joy! I witnessed this recently when my Mama rode in a race car. She is not a racing fan but a fan of Speed. I've been warned about sharing any stories about her love to drive fast so you will just have to use your imagination or ask her yourself. Traveling at 170 mph during the ride and wanting to go faster was the theme of the day at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

I'm constantly amazed by Mama's resilience, spunk, sense of adventure and just being plain out Rockin! Thanks for inspiring me to Always Go For It and to never live with Regret. 

Stay tuned for the next adventure...

Explore Durham’s Eclectic Music Scene!

This is one of my Favorite times of the year to get out and Explore Durham. I hope to see you at one of these wonderful opportunities. With such broad representation of genres, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!

 American Tobacco Music Series

 Brightleaf Music

 Duke Music in the Gardens

 Durham Central Park

 

 Warehouse Blues Series

Rock the Park & Movies 

      Music on Main

 Durham Symphony

Reflections from my last 96 hours...

This morning I woke up completely inspired and full of gratitude by the last 96 hours of my life. If we have met,  you probably already know that I'm passionate about many things and life, my relationships, spirituality, health, working hard as a Realtor and my love for Durham top the long list.

In the past 4 days, I was privileged to volunteer at The Full Frame Documentary Festival, meet other amazing volunteers that are film lovers, had conversations with Film Makers from around the world, participated in discussions on the variety of topics, viewed 6 mind provoking films and juggled my business during Spring Market.

To say I had a Blast would be an understatement. I was totally consumed by the range of emotions that I experienced. I was elated by joy and overwhelmed the raw truth at other times. The conversations were heart felt and I honestly believe that I experienced personal growth while being immersed with strangers that share a common interest. 

This experience was a much needed reminder that I need to refocus myself. That relationships and new opportunities add so much value to my life. I also realized that the clients I want to work with will respect my time and be flexible around my commitments.

Full Frame Festival!

April 4-7, 2013

The Full Frame Documentary Film Festival is an annual international event dedicated to the theatrical exhibition of non-fiction cinema. Each spring Full Frame welcomes filmmakers and film lovers from around the world to historic Downtown Durham, North Carolina for a four-day, morning to midnight array of over 100 films as well as discussions, panels, and southern hospitality. Set within a four-block radius, the intimate festival landscape fosters community and conversation between filmmakers, film professionals and the public.

The festival is a program of the Center for Documentary Studies (a non-profit, 501 c 3), and receives support from corporate sponsors, private foundations and individual donors whose generosity provides the foundation that makes the event possible. The Presenting Sponsor of the Festival is Duke University.

Full Frame Film Festival 

I hope to see you there!

Show Durham some LOVE! Vote Today!

I LOVE Durham and the Spirit that has been wrapped around Voting for The South's Tastiest Town. South Living Magazine has started the challenge and the fight is tough. Be sure to show Durham some Love and Vote Daily! 

O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!

Are you familiar with the Triangle Christmas Tree Challenge? The Triangle Christmas Tree Challenge is back for a third year of holly, jolly prize awarding fun for nonprofits and the companies that support them! Be sure to visit it in person and VOTE daily for your favorite charity.

Do you have a favorite tree? Let me know and I will share it on our Facebook Page. Please share more pictures with us. Enjoy!

For more details about the fun:  Triangle Tree Challenge

Find your COOL in Durham this Weekend!

Find your cool in Durham this weekend! Take a look at the line up courtesy of Durham Visitors Center.We have decided to start posting the weekend activities directly on our Facebook Page at Southern Savvy Connections. Please join us on Facebook in the future for more HOT weekend ideas!