A significant winter storm — including freezing rain, sleet, and icy conditions — is expected to impact Eastern North Carolina this weekend, potentially causing hazardous travel, power outages, and disruptions. The National Weather Service and local forecasts show that freezing rain will be a primary concern, with light snow and sleet possible in some areas, especially inland. 
State of Emergency and Official Alerts
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has declared a State of Emergency ahead of the storm, activating the State Emergency Response Team and urging residents to prepare now for potential impacts.

Officials are pre-treating roads, bridges, and overpasses with brine and coordinating response plans across the state. The governor encouraged people to stay home and avoid travel once the storm begins unless absolutely necessary. ​
At-home readiness includes:

• Filling gas tanks since some stations may lose power
• Pulling small-bill cash in case card systems go down
• Picking up prescriptions and essential medications early
• Downloading offline entertainment and maps
• Identifying a warm room to gather in if heating fails
• Knowing the location of breaker boxes and water shut-offs
• Adjusting refrigerator and freezer to colder settings

Water and Pipe Protection
Winter ice events can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Protect your home by allowing faucets to drip when temperatures drop, opening cabinet doors to circulate warm air, disconnecting outdoor hoses, and insulating outdoor faucets. Fill bottles or containers with water to use for flushing or cleaning if water pressure drops.
Food and Kitchen Preparation
Keep a supply of no-cook or easy meals on hand, including canned goods, bread, crackers, peanut butter, and fruit cups. A manual can opener is essential. Freeze some water bottles to help maintain freezer temperatures, and have a cooler ready in case you need to move perishables outside if it’s cold enough.
Heat and Home Safety

• Gather blankets, warm clothing, and sleeping bags
• Check fireplaces and dry firewood if using one
• Never use grills or generators indoors
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Use flashlights and battery lanterns if available

Vehicle and Travel
Travel can become dangerous quickly with ice on roads and bridges. Plan to avoid driving once freezing rain begins. Keep blankets, water, snacks, phone chargers, and gloves in your vehicle, and top off windshield washer fluid. Park away from large tree limbs when possible, and expect flights and travel disruptions.
Power Outage Planning
Power outages can last through and beyond the storm. Unplug sensitive electronics, keep radios or weather apps available for updates, use surge protectors, and know where local warming centers might be in your area. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve cold air.
Pets and Livestock Care
Bring pets indoors and ensure they have access to unfrozen water. Outdoor animals should have straw or blankets in their shelter to stay warm. Keep leashes and carriers accessible if evacuation becomes necessary.
Medical and Special Needs Considerations
Keep a written list of medications and dosages, store a first-aid kit with basic supplies, and have backup batteries for essential medical devices. Identify locations — such as community centers or family homes — with power in case temporary relocation is needed.
Property Protection
Protect vehicles by parking away from large tree limbs. Secure outdoor furniture and items that could move in strong winds.
During the Storm
Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Treat all downed lines as dangerous. Use only safe indoor heating options and check on neighbors by phone, especially elderly or vulnerable people. Report power outages to utility companies rather than emergency services unless there is an imminent safety threat.

As this storm moves through Eastern North Carolina, please take care of yourself, your family, and your neighbors. Preparation, patience, and staying informed can make all the difference during challenging weather. Above all, stay safe, stay warm, and don’t hesitate to check in on those who may need a little extra support.

Wishing you safety and peace throughout the storm,
Patty Lisa

National Popcorn Day is the perfect excuse to slow down, grab a bowl, and enjoy one of the most loved snacks of all time. Whether it’s movie night at home, a family gathering, or a simple afternoon treat, popcorn has a way of turning ordinary moments into something special.​

Why Popcorn Never Goes Out of Style
Popcorn has been enjoyed for generations, and for good reason. It’s affordable, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. From salty to sweet, classic to gourmet, popcorn fits every mood and occasion.
It’s also a snack that naturally brings people together—shared bowls, laughter, and conversations often follow.
Easy Ways to Celebrate National Popcorn Day at Home
​Celebrating National Popcorn Day doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple ideas can make it fun and memorable:

• Host a family movie night with different popcorn flavors
• Create a popcorn bar with toppings like butter, caramel drizzle, cinnamon sugar, or chocolate chips
• Try stovetop or air-popped popcorn for a fresh, homemade feel
• Let kids create their own popcorn mix for a hands-on activity

Popular Popcorn Flavor Ideas
Popcorn is loved because it’s so versatile. Some popular flavors include:

• Classic butter and sea salt
• Sweet & Salty
• Kettle corn with a touch of sweetness
• White cheddar or Parmesan
• Chocolate-drizzled popcorn for dessert
• Cinnamon sugar for a cozy twist
• Mixing flavors allows everyone to enjoy their favorite style.

Popcorn and Cozy Home Traditions
There’s something comforting about popcorn at home. It pairs perfectly with movie nights, game nights, or quiet evenings in. These small traditions are often the moments we remember most—the ones that turn houses into homes.

A Simple Celebration Worth Enjoying
National Popcorn Day is a reminder that joy doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the simplest snacks and traditions bring the most comfort. So grab a bowl, gather your favorite people, and enjoy a moment that’s warm, familiar, and easy.

This year reminded me why I love this work. It’s not the contracts or the checklists that make it meaningful—it’s the people. I’m grateful for every agent I supported behind the scenes assisting with their transactions and for every client who trusted me through their real estate journey. Your confidence, collaboration, and kindness are what this year was truly made of.

Behind the Scenes: What Transaction Coordination Looks Like
Working behind the scenes means managing the details so agents and clients don’t have to. That can look like:

• Coordinating timelines for inspections, appraisals, and closings so nothing gets missed.
• Communicating with lenders, title companies, and attorneys to keep the file moving.
• Preparing and tracking documents, signatures, and disclosures to reduce surprises.
• Troubleshooting last-minute issues and keeping everyone informed.

When those pieces fall into place, the result is what matters most: a smooth closing, a relieved client, and a happy agent.

To the Agents: Thank You for the Trust
To the incredible agents I assisted behind the scenes with their transactions: thank you. Your trust, professionalism, and teamwork made every successful closing possible. Being a quiet part of your process—managing deadlines, following up on contingencies, and ensuring paperwork is in order—has been a privilege. Your focus on clients paired with coordination creates the best outcomes.

To the Clients: Thank You for Letting Me Help
To the clients who invited me into their real estate journey: I’m deeply grateful. Whether you were buying your first home, moving to a new neighborhood, or closing another chapter, it’s an honor to help guide the details that lead to celebration. Your stories and milestones are the reason this work matters.

Why Strong Coordination Matters
Real estate is emotional and logistical. Strong transaction coordination reduces stress, shortens timelines, and helps protect both agents and clients from avoidable delays. In busy markets like Greenville and throughout Pitt County, organized processes and steady communication turn complicated transactions into manageable, successful experiences.

Looking Ahead
As we head into a new year, my hope is simple: more smooth closings, more thoughtful communication, and more chances to help people find home. I’m humbled by the relationships built this year and excited to continue serving agents and clients across Eastern North Carolina.
If you’re an agent looking for a transaction coordination, or a client needing support through your real estate journey, I’d be honored to help. Thank you for a year of trust, collaboration, and community.
— Patty Lisa