We took our dog, Ruthie B., to Ocracoke in early July, and after a fair amount of research into which island hotels and vacation rentals actually welcome dogs, we booked a Cedars Side room at Pony Island Inn that came with a kitchenette. Ocracoke is a such a special spot to both David and me,…
North Carolina
25 Staycation Ideas for 2026 (Local Fun Without the Travel)
A staycation is simply a vacation you take at or near home—swapping flights and packing lists for local hotels, restaurants, and experiences you might otherwise overlook. The key to planning a good one is treating it like a real trip: book something, unplug from routine, and make a point of doing things you would not…
Beat the Heat: 15 Creative Ways to Stay Cool This Summer (2026 Update)
Staying cool in this summer heat does not have to mean cranking the AC and dreading your energy bill. Whether you are trying to keep your home comfortable, avoid overheating outdoors, or simply make the most of the season, this guide has you covered with 15 creative, budget-friendly ways to stay cool this summer. This…
A Dog-Friendly Day Trip to Topsail Island: Ruthie B’s First Beach Day (2026 Update)
Back in 2018, David surprised me with a day trip to Topsail Beach, and even though I have lived in North Carolina my whole life, I had never set foot on that particular stretch of sand. This summer, we did a full redo — same easy two(ish)-hour drive from Raleigh, same gorgeous coastline — and…
Best Independent Bookstores in North Carolina (2026 Edition)
I have always been an avid reader, though the 2020 quarantines really rejuvenated my hobby of reading for fun. During quarantine, I started looking for ways to continue supporting local businesses, so I started keeping track of the best independent bookstores in North Carolina to support. Independent bookstores are more than just shops; they are…
