Raleigh Week: March Madness, Spring, East Cut news, and more

Hi {{first_name}}

We had a wonderful weekend celebrating community and meeting many This is Raleigh readers at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the lively Hibernian block party that followed.

We started the morning at the parade, grabbed a quick brunch at Press Coffee & Crepes, and then wandered over to the Hibernian block party for a few hours of music, dancing, and green-clad festivities. I’ll admit—I was pretty happy to slip out in the afternoon before things got too wild!

The spring weather decided to show up for the celebration too, which made the whole day feel like Raleigh was waking up again after winter.

Later that evening we headed to see our hometown team, the North Carolina Courage, kick off their season. The new squad debuted their striking Venus flytrap-inspired kits and came out with that same snapping energy—taking home their first win of the season (and yes, it was their very first game!).

But what I loved most was watching it all with our women’s-sports-obsessed teen daughter, Savannah. We had an amazing spot near the corner kick section, so we could see the players up close—their fierce energy, lightning pace, and intense focus as they moved across the field.

It didn’t take long for Savannah to declare midfielder Dani Weatherholt her new favorite player. She was completely locked in and incredibly impressive to watch.

By the end of the night Savannah walked away fired up—talking about possibly returning to soccer after taking a break and feeling motivated to level up with her personal training.

And that’s the magic of sports. All sports—but especially women’s sports for young girls. Seeing strong, talented women compete at the highest level can spark something powerful.

And for young boys too—we need them cheering just as loudly. Because these athletes are every bit as skilled, entertaining, and inspiring as any men’s team.

I’m grateful we have the Courage right here on our doorstep. They give us something to rally around, bring the community together, and offer a fun, high-energy night out here in Wake County.

Warmly,

Caroline

March Madness kicks off this week, Spring begins, Art in Bloom is on (Sold out) St Patrick’s Day celebrations continue as do Women’s History month events.

Today we have schools closed and possible tornadoes spinning through – stay safe! I’m kinda nervous about the potential foreshadowing of my daughter and I watching Twisters last week!

Over a year later, and we’re still in love with our Lutron automated shades from Budget Blinds. So are our cats - they are still showing up 20 mins before sunrise every morning to watch them slowly rise up on their own with awe. I stand behind watching them in awe!! It’s a strange daily ritual that repeats 20 mins after sunset. Unlike the cats, I have to check my watch for the show time! They just know.