Archive for category Uncategorized
A Sense of Community
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on August 5, 2025
Mahjong and Community: A Game That Builds More Than Just Winning Hands
Mahjong is more than a game of tiles, strategies, and quick thinking — it’s a time-honored tradition that brings people together. Across generations and continents, this ancient game has served as a social anchor for communities, offering connection, culture, and camaraderie far beyond the table. Recently in Vinings and Buckhead I’ve noticed more and more groups being created to form regular Mahjong groups. I’ve seen groups around neighborhoods, swimming clubs, grades at schools and many other varieties. We’ve recently formed a group in Vinings along with a few of my friends and we’ve blossomed to a much larger group as the months have gone along.
A Game with Deep Cultural Roots
Originating in China over 150 years ago, Mahjong spread throughout East Asia and eventually across the globe, carried by immigrants who brought their customs and communities with them. What started as a pastime in teahouses became a cherished ritual in homes, community centers, and temples. For many families, teaching Mahjong is as vital as passing down a recipe or family story.
In Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and American communities alike, the game adapts, evolves, and reflects the people who play it. The version popular in the United States — American Mahjong — was codified in the 1930s and has become a staple among Jewish communities in particular, where regular games and tournaments are often part of social and philanthropic life.
Building Bridges Through Tiles
What makes Mahjong special isn’t just its gameplay — it’s the way it creates space for connection. Regular Mahjong games often become weekly rituals, gathering friends, neighbors, or relatives around a table where stories are shared, laughter is common, and relationships are deepened.
In many retirement communities, senior centers, and cultural clubs, Mahjong acts as a social lifeline. It encourages cognitive stimulation and keeps older adults mentally agile, while also offering an inclusive space to meet and socialize. Meanwhile, younger generations are rediscovering the game, learning from grandparents or joining modern Mahjong meetups that blend tradition with new friendship.
My mother has been playing Mahjong for 20 years and she’s now 89 and still enjoying the game a couple of times a week. Most of us have taught our sons and daughters and it becomes a great bridge builder at holidays or when we can grab them for those rare times they are at home. When we are visiting my mother who lives out of town, we have 3 generations playing Mahjong. Many of my friends have purchased travel sets and I’ve seen them playing all summer, at the beach, on the boat and all over the world.
The Mahjong Table as a Circle of Support
For many women, in particular, Mahjong groups are a source of support and empowerment. The rhythm of the game — fast but not frantic — allows for conversations about family, careers, health, and life. It becomes a safe space to vent, encourage, and celebrate. In fact, many groups refer to themselves as Mahjong “sisterhoods,” emphasizing the deep bonds formed over time.
During times of challenge or isolation — such as the COVID-19 pandemic — virtual Mahjong platforms kept these connections alive. Even online, the sense of routine, familiarity, and shared experience helped players feel grounded. Now that we don’t have that isolation people are flocking to outlets for shared experiences and close friendships.
Expanding the Circle
Today, Mahjong is growing beyond traditional circles. Younger players are organizing themed Mahjong nights, teaching the game on TikTok and Instagram, and designing custom tile sets that reflect their personal identities — whether that’s through color palettes, symbolism, or pop culture references.
I will say I’ve become quite obsessed with prepping my Mahj Den for our games and decorating it in different colors and tiles for fun. At our evening group we have snacks and everyone puts on quite a spread to make it even more of an event. I’ve seen blogs called “cracks and snacks” with ideas for what to prepare for these snacks.
On the design and tile front, we have all become addicted to the “Oh My Mahjong” line and the various beautiful mats and colors they have. A local store @WaitingonMarthaHome https://www.waitingonmarthahome.com/ has a display where you can look at the tiles and how they coordinate with the various mats and I know its become quite a good seller for them as well. Even the lower priced tiles at Hobby Lobby are sold out most of the time. Its become quite a cultural and marketing phenomena.
Meanwhile, community organizations are using Mahjong as a bridge-builder — hosting intergenerational events, cultural exchange nights, and charity tournaments that draw diverse crowds to the table. I’ve seen this with charity functions this summer and I’m sure that will be growing this year as well.
Conclusion
Mahjong is much more than a game — it’s a cultural legacy and a community builder. Each clack of the tile is an invitation: to engage, to share, and to belong. Whether you’re playing in a quiet living room, a bustling clubhouse, or a digital space, Mahjong reminds us that connection is the real prize.
So, pull up a chair. The table is always open.
If you’d like to be connected with a group, please reach out and I can try to help you locate one in your community. Or if you need advice on how to get started playing Mahjong, I can tell you how we did it!
TINA HUNSICKER
Associate Broker
CELL (404) 931-3944
OFFICE 404.383.HOME (4663)
EMAIL Tina@HOMEgeorgia.com
INSTA @realviningsbuckhead
1819 Peachtree Road, Suite 100 | Atlanta, GA 30309
HOMEgeorgia.com
Coming Soon to Vinings Market!
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on August 5, 2025
2911 Knob Hill Drive, Atlanta, GA 30339
2911 Knob Hill Drive, Atlanta, GA $1,795,000
This home is conveniently located in Vinings Village with sidewalks to the Village and The Lovett School, also convenient to Westminster, Pace and Whitefield. It was originally built by Lewis Newman in 1997 and has had extensive updates as recently as the past year. It features a pool and level play yard with play house and screened in porch for wonderful outdoor living. The main level features vaulted ceilings, formal living, dining and a study as well as a keeping/sun room and large family room. The upstairs has the expansive primary suite with 2 closets and updated master bath. Additionally, there are 3 more bedrooms on this level. The terrace level had a fireside family room, pool table and guest suite. You are Cochise Club eligible but with your own pool you may not need it! Located in a cul de sac on a quiet street off of Orchard Knob it’s a premier location in the Village. Contact me for more details and pictures will be coming the week of August 19th and it will come on the market after that. You can reach me at:
TINA HUNSICKER
Associate Broker
CELL (404) 931-3944
OFFICE 404.383.HOME (4663)
EMAIL Tina@HOMEgeorgia.com
INSTA @realviningsbuckhead
1819 Peachtree Road, Suite 100 | Atlanta, GA 30309
HOMEgeorgia.com
Wanted: Updated Homes in Buckhead for Serious Buyer
Posted by thunsicker in Buckhead, Buyers Seeking, Neighborhoods, Uncategorized on July 26, 2025
Do you know of an off-market or upcoming listing in Buckhead, south of West Paces Ferry but not as far south as Ansley Park? The picture is to catch your attention.
🔎 I have a serious, qualified buyer searching for:
✅ Updated home – move-in ready
✅ 4+ bedrooms
✅ Separate guest suite (ideal for long-term guests or in-laws)
✅ Nice yard – space for entertaining or pets
✅ Haynes Manor is a big plus!
💰 Price range: $2 million to $5 million
If you’re an agent with a potential match or a homeowner considering selling, please reach out ASAP.
TINA HUNSICKER
Associate Broker
CELL (404) 931-3944
OFFICE 404.383.HOME (4663)
EMAIL Tina@HOMEgeorgia.com
INSTA @realviningsbuckhead
New listing in Convenient, Close in West End – Under contract
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on May 7, 2024
2903 Ilir Manor, Atlanta, GA 30318
Welcome to your vibrant oasis! This dazzling 2-story townhome, just a mere 2 years young, beckons with a blend of modern elegance and comfort. As you step inside, be greeted by the grandeur of soaring ceilings that amplify the spaciousness of each room. Imagine mornings spent savoring your coffee in the privacy of your own wooded backyard—a serene retreat just steps away.
Located in the coveted west side, this gem by Brock Built offers convenience at your doorstep, ensuring you’re always minutes from the heartbeat of the city. The interior is a testament to sophistication, with pristine white cabinetry and gleaming stainless steel appliances adorning the gourmet kitchen. Picture yourself entertaining effortlessly around the expansive island, comfortably seating three for lively conversations and memorable meals.
With three cozy bedrooms and 2.5 baths, there’s ample space for both relaxation and rejuvenation. Luxurious LVT flooring adds a touch of opulence while ensuring durability for years to come. Plus, easy access to 285 and the airport ensures your adventures are never far away.
This isn’t just a house; it’s the ideal canvas for your new chapter—a captivating starter home that promises both comfort and convenience. Don’t miss the opportunity to call this haven yours!
Listed by Tina Hunsicker – Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Georgia Properties 404-931-3944
Price $415,000 5/8/2024
Unveiling a Hidden Gem – SOLD
Posted by thunsicker in Atlanta Home Builders, Atlanta Real Estate, New Construction, Uncategorized on February 28, 2024
The Enchanting Wooded Homesite of Sandy Springs
Nestled amidst the serene tranquility of Sandy Springs lies a rare treasure waiting to be discovered – a wooded 1+ acre homesite offering breathtaking views and unparalleled potential. Tucked away on a private cul de sac, this extraordinary property promises a lifestyle of luxury and convenience, boasting access to a neighborhood swim and tennis club for those seeking both recreation and relaxation.
The allure of this homesite is immediately apparent, with its expansive acreage enveloped in lush greenery and framed by majestic trees. But it’s the panoramic views that truly steal the show, offering a picturesque backdrop for your dream home. Imagine waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the treetops or unwinding in the evenings to the gentle rustle of leaves and the cool embrace of nature.
What sets this property apart is not just its natural beauty but also its incredible potential for customization. With homes to the rear recently sold in the $2.3M – $2.7M range, the value of this homesite is undeniable. Whether you envision a sprawling estate or a cozy retreat, the possibilities are endless.
For those eager to explore the potential of this remarkable property, a marked path adorned with blue x’s awaits. Beginning at the fire hydrant, this path guides you through the terrain, offering glimpses of potential building sites along the way. The topography reveals a previously excavated area, suggesting one possible build site, while a level area to the left presents another enticing option.
To assist in your exploration, a new survey has been conducted, with the property thoughtfully marked by yellow flags at each corner. This attention to detail ensures clarity and precision as you envision the layout of your future home.
Beyond its natural beauty and customizable potential, what truly sets this homesite apart is its unbeatable location. Close proximity to GA 400, I-285, the City of Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and Buckhead ensures effortless access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and business hubs. Whether you’re commuting to work or exploring the vibrant city life, everything you need is just a stone’s throw away.
In conclusion, this wooded homesite in Sandy Springs is more than just a piece of land; it’s an opportunity to craft the lifestyle of your dreams. With its stunning views, customizable potential, and unbeatable location, it’s a rare find that promises to fulfill your every desire. Don’t miss your chance to make this enchanting property your own and embark on a journey of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty.
125 Cat Cay Court in Sandy Springs priced at $300,000 for an acre of land. Please contact Tina Hunsicker with Berkshire Hathaway Homes Services Georgia Properties at 404-931-3944
New Listing: 7155 Roswell Road #59, Atlanta, – SOLD
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on April 28, 2021
The feel of a single family home in a turn-key, low maintenance townhome! This elegant brick home has been renovated to the studs with impeccable attention to detail, ready for you to move in and put your feet up. The HOA even does all the the external upkeep for you! As I am creating this and posting I have already received 2 offers, so hurry if you’re interested!
This two story foyer and gorgeous staircase create a grand welcome, but you have everything you need to live on the main floor, from garages to master suite and laundry.
A large sitting room is anchored by a gas log fireplace and gleaming new hardwoods, which carry through the main floor.
With one of end of the room in floor to ceiling windows, the other end opens onto a private back deck. This is an end unit, allowing for windows on three sides of the living spaces, bathing the home in light.
A spacious dining room around the corner also overlooks the deck. French doors with transoms create some separation between dining and kitchen without blocking any light or flow when entertaining.
The kitchen has been thoughtfully and thoroughly renovated with a soft neutral palette, beautiful custom cabinetry, and lots of bright counter space. The breakfast room is a sunny spot to start your day. And unlike many townhouse communities now, there are no stairs between the garage and main floor, so carrying groceries in is a breeze.
And the storage! The renovations were done with an eye for smart, easy-access storage. You’ll find solutions like this great spice cabinet tucked throughout the house.
Master suite is on the main floor, with hardwoods and a bright bay window looking out onto a lovely greenscape.
The master bath has a huge double vanity with plenty of storage, a fresh tile surround, and large walk-in shower.
The updated laundry room is conveniently located beside the master suite.
Upstairs are two additional bedrooms with shuttered windows and fresh neutral carpet. One is currently a lounge and would be a great work-from-home office or exercise room.
A full bath is shared by the two upstairs rooms, which was also fully renovated and updated.
With deck on the back and a nice bit of lawn on the side, this home give the feeling of a much larger lot but without the maintenance. The community is full of mature trees and plantings and is very walkable. As well as community amenities like pool and tennis, shopping, dining, hospitals and groceries are all close by. There is golfing, tennis clubs, and Chattahoochee River Park walking trails within a mile of the home.
Take a look at the full listing here for more details about this great Sandy Springs townhome. If you’re looking for low maintenance home with a great neighborhood feel, this is a great option. I’d love to set up a showing to help you get a feel for all that it has to offer!
7155 Roswell Road # 59
Property overview: 3 bedrooms ; 3 bathrooms ; 2763 sq.ft. ; 2 car garage ; end unit townhouse ; gated swim/tennis community ; master bedroom and laundry on main ; fully renovated ; walkable to Sandy Springs town center
Schools: Woodland-Fulton ; Sandy Springs ; North Springs
Offered at: $449,900
Under Contract: 9 Albemarle Drive NW – SOLD
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on June 26, 2020
Tucked up to a 25 acre nature reserve, 9 Albemarle is in an enclave of just 11 homes on a private street. With shelter-in-place fresh on our minds, many home buyers are thinking not only about their living spaces but also about how we live in our homes more than ever. And if you are looking for generous space and serenity, this may be the perfect place for you to call home. Designed by acclaimed Atlanta architect Kenneth Lynch, it is a timeless and gracious home with beautiful updates to make it move-in ready.
Traditional vernacular architecture and a shake shingle roof create a welcoming first impression. The home’s threshold is reached via a wide front porch, with room for comfortable seating sheltering under a classic southern blue ceiling.
The entrance hall opens to the main floor living areas, each distinctive but with an open flow throughout. The beautiful millwork in the entrance hall continues throughout the home with unique fireplace surrounds, built in shelving, and elegant cornicing.
Stepping down from the entrance hall is the formal living room with two walls of windows to let in plenty of natural light, a beautiful fireplace with Federal-style mantel, and more of the woodwork you will see throughout the home.
Across the hall is the formal dining room with plenty of room for a generous table seating 10-12 people.
A butler’s pantry between the dining room and kitchen is so rare these days! Keep everything you need for entertaining at your fingertips!
The updated custom kitchen is really special, with cabinetry evoking an old-world aesthetic with refined, luxurious surfaces and finishes.
Again, this home is all about the feeling of serenity, with impeccable details that underscore its everyday luxury – the woodwork detailing on the wine bar and center island being a case in point.
Adjoining the kitchen is this hearth-side dining area for weeknight family dinners. Like the butler’s pantry, the brick hearth is a rare feature!
A sunny keeping room off the kitchen and dining space has a vaulted ceiling and views of the greenery outside; important, given how many of us are working from home more than ever, the french doors can be closed as needed.
The real heart of the family home, the kitchen and dining area opens onto a large deck and overlooks the back yard and green space, with french doors you can open wide for summer entertaining.
This gorgeous laundry room certainly brightens up necessary household tasks; an adjoining informal office space could serve as a sewing or craft space as well.
The second floor holds the 3 generously sized en suite bedrooms, including a spacious master suite with a dressing room and large bathroom with double vanity, free standing soaking tub, and walk-in shower.
While the finishes are minimal, they are truly elegant, with accents carefully chosen to compliment the serenity of the space.
The terrace level is fully finished and houses two large play and living rooms and a bedroom suite.
Vaulted ceilings, a wet bar, wood burning stove, and exterior french doors make this a true upgrade from many finished basement levels.
Full sized windows and generous ceiling height, along with a large walk-in shower make this suite perfect for visiting grandparents or guests.
Mature trees, beautiful landscaping, and a generous deck form the backdrop of this home’s tranquil setting. You may be minutes from shopping, dining, and schools (the neighborhood is 2 minutes from The Westminster School’s back entrance), but your peace won’t be disturbed by through traffic or highway noise.
On a private cul de sac with a flat parking area just off the front porch, you can teach the kids how to ride their bikes or take an evening stroll without constantly watching for traffic.
Take a look at my Facebook Live walk-thru of this home of reach out to me for an in-person viewing. There are more details and photos on the listing itself as well as info about upcoming open houses!
9 Albemarle Drive NW Atlanta GA 30327
Property overview: 4 bedrooms; 7 bathrooms; 6460 sq ft; 3 car garage; full finished basement/terrace level; butler’s pantry; tennis community; nature preserve
Schools: Morris Brandon / Sutton / North Atlanta
Offered at $1,399,900
Take out Restaurants during our Stay at Home time.
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on April 11, 2020
It looks like this site, Takeout COVID, is willing to add any restaurants that are open for delivery or pick up. Please contact them to add any that you know of that aren’t represented here. I’ve only been cooking at home for the past month but it’s starting to get old, so I may venture out to get some take out for a change. Enjoy!
Walking tour of 2945 Paces Lake Drive in Vinings
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on April 1, 2020
New listing: 2945 Paces Lake Drive SE
Posted by thunsicker in Uncategorized on January 14, 2020
Don’t miss this one on the lake in Vinings!
My followers are the first to know of a new listing coming to market in the next week in the heart of Vinings on Paces Lake.
This high quality custom home was built in 1998 and is one of the best lots on the street. This lot allows the home to have 3 sides of water views with privacy. Custom finishes thru out include: shake shingle roof, copper gutters, solid wood doors, heart of pine floors and pine cabinetry, to mention a few.
The main level is perfect for entertaining with a 4 seasons sun room that has walls of windows overlooking the lake on all sides. The doors from the sun room lead to a blue stone patio with outdoor fireplace overlooking the lake as well. Its an easy stroll down the steps to your private boat dock and lift.
This Design Galleria kitchen features professional appliances and granite countertops and is open to a cozy fireside keeping room. The formal dining room is massive and easily seats 12. There is a large living room or family room on this level as well, all in all it has 3 sitting/living rooms on the main which allows for entertaining large groups.
All bedrooms are ensuite and all bathroom fixtures are imported from England and are a classic white and the tiles have black traditional accents. The ceilings are 10 ft. and the mouldings are intricate and detailed.
The master is on the main which is a favorite here in Vinings and the teen suites are huge upstairs with extra sinks in the closets for visiting teens or art projects – 3 teen suites in all. The closets in the teen suites are rooms unto themselves! The basement is a perfect hang out place with a media room, sports storage space, billiard or shuffle board room and fitness room or nanny suite. There is room for a pool if you’d like. Plus I need to mention a 3 car garage where even the flooring is blue stone! We are getting this ready for market and it will be listed next week at $2,495,000. Walk to private schools. Call me if you’d like to see it then and you can be my neighbor!
2945 Paces Lake Drive, Atlanta, GA 30339
Property overview: 5 bedrooms ; 7 bathrooms ; 4,874 sq. ft. ; classic brick custom lakefront home ; master on main ; walkable to Vinings Village ; 3 car garage ; full walk-out basement ; Cochise Club eligible
Schools: Teasely / Campbell / Campbell
Offered at $2,495,000
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