Slow down

Hi {{ first name | Raleigh Lover}}!

I was chatting with my sister the other day and she said, “I can’t believe it’s the end of January already.”

“Slow down, sis — it’s only the 5th!!”

Mind you, she’s been in a total whirlwind lately, helping my dad who’s been in and out of hospital. He’s doing okay now, but he had a severe allergic reaction to medication following his recent pacemaker. A lot, right out of the gate. My passport was ready in case I had to rush to the gate!

It’s been a full-on start to the year.

I listened to an astrology podcast yesterday that said time genuinely sped up last year because of what all the planets were doing — and honestly? I totally believe it. Everything has felt fast. Too fast. Too intense.

All of this feels like a gentle nudge to invite you (and me) to slow down. To savor each moment as it comes. To resist getting pulled into the angst of yesterday or the worry of tomorrow.

Breathe deep. Be present. Allow the moment to unfold exactly as it’s meant to.

Easy to say, I know — but may it be your intentional practice.

I also listened to a Jay Shetty podcast episode with Chris Hemsworth, who’s created a documentary with his father, who has Alzheimer’s. He spoke about what this season has taught him, especially the importance of slowing down, being present, and intentionally creating memories with the people you love.

Not big, monumental moments. Just presence. Connection. Being there.

Those are the memories that matter most.

So, in these slower January days, let’s aim to be more connected. Take long, unhurried walks through a garden or along a trail. Get lost in conversation with the people you treasure.

On our travel blog, our motto has always been: Travel more. Create better memories.

But you don’t have to go far to live from a traveler’s heart. You can do it right here — in your own backyard.

Caroline

P.S. I really think life is sending me disconnect and slow down messages as yesterday my daughter accidentally cracked my phone screen, and it is unusable. As I have a busy morning, I might not be able to get it fixed! Breathe Deep. Let it go. Enjoy being present and connected to real life instead!

💖 FAVORITE FINDS

  • Willow House: Enjoying connected conversations with my friend Karly (Raleigh is Growing) over delicious coffee at one of my Raleigh favorites. (The owners are so nice and care about connected conversations over coffee)

  • Ready to Roll Garage Doors: We had our new garage doors installed by Kyle and his amazing team. We couldn’t be happier with how it looks and the service. They are locally owned and so focused on exceptional service and quality. (partner)

  • Moxie Hair Salon Finally found a hair salon that uplifts my spirit and helps me feel confident. I had a consultation and am getting hair extensions today (fun adventure) but I really loved how they gave me great advice as to what would suit me - because honestly, I’m clueless. I also got eyelash extensions which I love - no more mascara. IT’s a game changer because I’m on camera and at events all the time! (partner)

  • Fratelli’s Deli - Oh you must get to this new sandwich joint in Sweetwater Apex - New York style deli with a huge array of sandwiches and salads. And they have gluten free bread - panini at that! My Italian beef grilled cheese with a side of dipping au jus was SENSATIONAL! Here are more photos

Italian Beef Grilled Cheese (gf)

New eyelashes

New garage door

Willow House

⭐DID YOU HEAR?

  • Avelo Airlines is canceling multiple routes and pulling its crew bases from both RDU and Wilmington. Cuts include Albany, New York; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

  • Locally owned, Rooted Yoga will open in Rockway this summer. Expect a community-centred wellness approach.

  • Let's cheer on the Panthers tomorrow in their first playoff game since 2017!!

  • Garlic Bay has opened in Smoky Hollow (part of Hone-Sharpen) Expect delicious smells and tasty sandwiches. Although sadly, I'm one of those people where garlic is not my friend - onions even more so. Yuck!

  • Finally dog lovers, Barking Dog is now open in the Park District of North Hills near Chuy’s. Bring your pets - they're welcome!

  • Jetset Pilates is also opening this weekend in North Hills!

  • Nan Xiang Express is open on Hillsborough St. Enjoy theirsoup dumplings and Shanghainese comfort food

  • Are you excited for the Buddhist Monks to walk through Raleigh on their 120-day Walk for Peace?. I'm hoping to see them. Predicted any time between Jan 20 & 30. Please be mindful and respectful and keep your distance.

🎙️ New Podcast Feature

I was recently a guest on Christina’s podcast, Your Limitless Life, where we had a grounded, honest conversation about healing your relationship with money.

We talked about where scarcity patterns come from, how the nervous system impacts abundance, and why safety and self-worth play a bigger role than most of us realize.

If money has ever felt emotional or stressful, this episode offers a refreshing, human perspective.

P.S. We’re getting ready to launch our Abundance Reset in two weeks! I’d love for you to join if this is in alignment!

📆THIS WEEKEND

You may like…

  1. FRI: Candlelight: Tribute to Taylor Swift, Historic Wakefield Barn

  2. SAT: Raleigh Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival 2026: Unlimited tasting of chocolates, wine, craft spirit s- now that’s how you welcome in 2026! Kerr Scott Building, State Fairgrounds 11:30am – 9pm $64

  3. SAT GLOW Under the Silver Moon Parade: Our Town, Downtown Cary Park Wander glowing pathways with handcrafted lanterns, and live music plus food trucks under the starry night sky 6pm – 7:30pm

More ideas 👇

🗣JOIN THE CONVERSATION

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