Hi {{first_name}}
Sometimes you need to leave a place to remember why you love it.
We just got back from a few days in Charleston — and honestly? It was exactly the kind of reset I didn't know I needed. Easy drive, beautiful city, the kind of food that makes you go quiet mid-bite.
But Charleston is never just a pretty backdrop. Every cobblestone street, every plantation gate, every church steeple carries weight. We spent time really sitting with that history this trip — the story of slavery and its profound, ongoing ramifications for Black Americans. It's uncomfortable, as it should be. And I came home with a fuller understanding of this region I now call home. The South's story is complicated and layered, and I think the more we lean into that — really listen, really learn — the better neighbors and community members we become.
It also made me appreciate Raleigh freshly. The drive back through the pines felt like coming home in the best way.
Now we're sliding into a holiday weekend — and whether you're celebrating Easter, Passover, or simply the miracle of a four-day weekend, I'm wishing you something good. Rest. A table full of people you love. Maybe a deviled egg or two.
Here's what's happening around our city this weekend…
Caroline
P.S. If you have pets and love to travel, you will want to know about Trusted Housesitters. This was our fourth time using them and they are fantastic! Saves us so much money and allows our cats to remain in their happy, comfortable home.
If I Were Planning My Weekend I’d …
Enjoy the chilled Bands, Boats & Bites at Bond Lake with local musicians, food trucks, and brews. (Fri evening 5:30pm - 7pm)
Immerse yourself in local art and community at downtown’s First Friday. Here is our guide with the events
Take the kids to Fenton on Sunday for photos with the Easter Bunny, live music, and a spring atmosphere.
Go for a walk around Lake Johnson, Lake Lynn, or Shelley Lake - to make up for possibly not going on Wednesday - National Walking Day.
North Carolina Courage vs. Portland Thorns FC <- Buy tickets via our link and get a special THIS IS RALEIGH discount
Watch the Carolina Hurricanes take on New York Islanders, Lenovo Center
Local Spotlight: Squeegee Squad
Are you ready for that yellow dust to get off your property? Without having to do the laborious pollen cleaning tasks yourself? The Squeegee Squad is ready to help and currently taking spring cleaning appointments. They can help you with your window cleaning & pressure washing! Can’t wait for the porch to return to its normal shade of blue!
A Few More Things Before You Go
Some favorite finds, news to know, and ideas
Lenovo Center has released new renderings of their enhancement project, which includes a beer hall (365 days) a refreshed exterior and grand lobby are, and a new team store. They're calling it the summer upgrades, and I'm wondering if I am reading that wrong! Seems a lot to do!
NC State alum, astronaut Christina Koch has launched into space for a journey around the moon with the Artemis II. You can track it here.
321 Coffee has announced at the end of April, you can find their coffee find in every Costco warehouse across North Carolina! Amazing!
One of our favorites, Foxcroft Food & Wine in North Hills is bringing back jazz - every Tues night, the Zach Dewey Trio will perform.
I had a fun chat with Travel Small Towns Podcast about our travel life and why small towns often hold the most meaningful experiences. (Plus… the story about the town where hippos roam the streets 🦛 — you’ll have to listen for that one.)
Speaking of travel - my US passport arrived last night! Yay. I am now the proud owner of two passports! Now to get Savannah’s one.
If You Missed It This Week
This is Raleigh Reader Discounts
Click the links below and use the code as directed. (We’re personal customers of all below)
NC Courage: Discounted single game and season tickets
Gladwell Orthodontics Free teeth whitening treatment with treatment. Mention THIS IS RALEIGH
Compost Now: Free month for your home composting service. CODE: CAZCOMPOSTS
Orca Blue Soft Water System: $500 off system. Mention THIS IS RALEIGH
Crowd Health: Our alternative crowd health funding program. Ds=usciyt fir first 3 months max crowdfunding request Code: CAZMAK
Trusted Housesitters - great for pet owners who love to travel. CODE: YTRAVEL25 for a 25% discount off your membership fee.
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