Hugging a sequoia at Yosemite
Hi {{first_name}}
It was a quiet week over here. We hunkered down, got some real work done, and tried to get ahead before the calendar chaos kicks in for the next six weeks. The upside? A lot of fun new finds coming your way soon.
Next week we're filming apartments, checking out the new Switchyards co-working space, and finally making it to Peregrine. That patio has been calling my name.
I also learned this morning that May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The 2026 theme is "More Good Days, Together" — about promoting mental wellness, reducing stigma, and encouraging people to actually ask for help when they need it.
It got me thinking. What does a good day actually look like for me?
When I sat with that question this morning, I realized almost everything on my list is a mental health practice in disguise. My morning meditation and breathwork (my daily sanity ritual, non-negotiable). Exercise. A walk in nature. Cuddles and long conversations with my daughters. The cats. Work that I love and that I hope makes some kind of difference. And always, always some kind of exploration. It's why I have this career. It's why my life has been dedicated to travel.
These are the things that keep me centered. The eye of the hurricane when everything around me gets intense.
So what does a good day look like for you? Is there one small mental health practice you could try this week? You know I'm a firm believer in the benefits of hugging trees. It's a great place to start, and Raleigh has some absolutely beautiful ones.
I hugged one yesterday on my walk. No shame.
Send me a picture if you do the same. 🌳
Caroline
Walnut Creek Greenway - Lake Raleigh stop
If I Were Planning My Weekend, I’d …
Support local art and small businesses at First Friday in Downtown Raleigh tonight. The unique ArtPutt is happening - mini golf + art installations. See full events here.
Enjoy lunch or dinner on the new Sixty Vines rooftop patio - opened yesterday. We’re going tonight and can’t wait! (Maybe go Sunday as tomorrow is a bad weather day!)
PARENTS: Take your 8-11 grader to the Youth Leadership Summit at Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh-Cary - a day of workshops and sessions to help empower the next generation for college, leadership, and community impact
Kick off Bike Month at the Bike Bonanza at Dix Park.
A Few More Things Before You Go
Some favorite finds, news to know, and ideas
“Kids Over Corporations” rally in Downtown Raleigh is happening today. Educators and families are demanding higher teacher pay and increased public school funding. As a former teacher, I support this rally! As a child currently sleeping in, Savannah supports this rally!
Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Second Round of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs between the Carolina Hurricanes and Philadelphia Flyers will be at 8 p.m. on Saturday at Lenovo Center! Game 2 also at Lenovo but date TBD. Get tickets here.
Kane Realty is planning on some Cary developments. A seven-story, mixed-use called Flatiron which will be opposite Viscous Fishes Brewery. It will need to be a flatiron to fit into that small space. And a redevelopment of office space into apartments on Weston Parkway
Village Dental will open its doors on Saturday, May 2 8am - 12pm for Smiles From the Heart 2026, a free dental day offering cleanings and extractions to individuals and families in need. (First come first served)
It's Free Comic Book Day on Sat. The American Cancer Society & Ultimate Comics (Cary & Crabtree locations) are putting on a celebration. Enjoy free comics, cosplay, special guest appearances, VIP events, artist signings, and exclusive collectibles, all while supporting the mission of the American Cancer Society.
Thousand Hills Coffee in Morrisville (not far from RDU and Crabtree Lake) has great coffee and a buzzing atmosphere. It was filled with remote workers and students studying with friends yesterday.
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
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Google Fi: get $60 credit if you make the switch (for cell phones). We recently did and love it. For frequent travelers like us it makes sense. Plus, better price than ATT and better service (data and customer!) Use CODE: 7ANFM2
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