Hi {{first_name}}
Yesterday, I added something new to my “next life” list… right under marathon running.
Golf.
I love the idea of it. The slow pace, walking a beautiful course, cruising around in the golf cart—it all feels very me. I even loved my private lesson with Chad. I went from about ten consecutive air swings (humbling 😅) to actually making some clean contact.
Progress!
And then… I stepped onto the course.
Let’s just say things unraveled quickly.
There were more air swings, grubbers, and time spent chasing golf balls into the woods than I care to admit. Meanwhile, Craig was out there calmly hitting great shots and living his best golf life.
I decided to pivot.
Instead of battling the game, I soaked up the sunshine, admired the views, and fully embraced my new role as… supportive spectator. Honestly, I’m very happy to tag along while Craig pursues his golf dreams. Caddy life might be calling me.
We were staying overnight as guests at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, and wow—what a gem. From the beautiful terrace views to the delicious restaurant, it truly feels like a little escape… not like you’re in the Triangle at all.
The timing was perfect too, because this week we published our guide to the best golf courses in the Triangle. And thanks to your messages (we love you for this!), we’ve already got a couple more to add to the list—Heritage and Old Chatham.
Right now, I’m madly typing this from our room at the Inn, about to head out for a 3-mile walk around the course.
With this spring weather? I couldn’t think of a better place to be.
Caroline
P.S. Spring is here. Spring is here. We made it!! Yay!
If I Were Planning My Weekend, I’d …
Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day at the 321 Day Bloc Party with snacks, vintage finds, art labs, puppies + the first 100 guests will receive a $10 321 Coffee gift card, a new pair of 321 socks and treats 11am – 1pm
Take the kids to the Away with the Fairies at Mordecai Historic Park 10am – 2pm Enjoy free crafts and activities, find the perfect handmade treasures, and celebrate Spring all while enjoying great food and fun.
Support local art on the Boylan Arts District Studio Tour on the free Great Raleigh Trolley. Tour spaces, talk with artists, and purchase one-of-a-kind local art! 2-5pm
Have lunch or afternoon drinks on a patio. Here are some of our favorites.
Local Spotlight: Orca Blue Soft Water System
Orca Blue is a local family-owned company that specializes in providing water softening and filtration systems, including the Maytag IT Series Water Conditioners. We love our home water filter system ensuring we never have to think about clean and healthy water again. Customer service was excellent and you can get a free in-home consultation.
NOTE: We have organized a $500 DISCOUNT with Orca Blue if you choose to install a system. Mention Caroline and Craig from THIS IS RALEIGH to receive your discount!
A Few More Things Before You Go
Some favorite finds, news to know, and ideas
Raleigh favorite (Ish) delicatissan on North Person S will close its doors March 29. Go and have your favorite sandwich one last time!
Amadeo's Italian Restaurant - a Raleigh staple and popular NC State hangout - may be relocating thanks to some possible rezoning and development changes.
Last night during dinner, Craig checked the UNC basketball scores - up 15, not much longer to go, probably safe to enjoy the meal and see them in the next round. Nope. The restaurant manager came to share his commiserations with us - what on earth happened? Duke will be flying the Triangle flag now!
For the women's NCAA, we have UNC playing Western Illinois today at 5:30pm and NC State vs Tennessee at 8pm And Duke advance to the next round after defeating Charleston
We have a giveaway in collaboration with our friends Raleigh is Growing and the Hope in Bloom Ball. Tickets for 1 winner + 3 friends to the annual fundraising gala at Prestonwood Country Club (dinner, drinks, dancing) As well as 5 raffle tickets ($500 value) to win a Bald Head Island stay! Enter here.
Good news for renters, Axios tells us that rents are dropping around the Triangle #toomuchsupply
Jaguar Bolera in Raleigh Iron Works has suddenly closed.
Boatman Spirits adds Thursday and Friday lunch starting TODAY.
Cocoa Cinnamon is a great coffee stop when visiting Durham
The Key Lime Pie Creme Brulee at Washington Dukes Fairview Inn just works! Yum
Cocoa Cinnamon
Key Lime Creme Brulee
If You Missed It This Week
Tell Me
What are you doing this weekend?
Hit reply — I genuinely love hearing your plans.
See you around Raleigh,
Caroline
Need a Raleigh Realtor?
No need to spend all your resources trying to find a knowledgeable and trustworthy realtor who puts customer care first! We have partnerships with savvy and experienced, local realtors who can help you find your perfect property (or sell the one you have!) allowing you to focus on the more important aspects of your move. You'll also get personal access to us to help you with questions on life in Raleigh! Reply to this email or click the button 👇
