Every year, I enjoy reflecting on the most popular blog posts of the year when planning new content. Â When I rebranded, I wanted to intentionally focus more on exploring places in North Carolina and providing travel opportunities to places that are perhaps less explored. Â I was thrilled to see my passion paying off in my most popular blog posts from 2017 and then this year.
Here are the 10 most popular posts of 2018.
Eastern North Carolina Favorite: The Hen & the Hog





It is with great pride that my most popular post of 2018 featured a true hidden gem in North Carolina. Â It is even more important to me because that hidden gem is in my home county in northeastern North Carolina, in a town that was incredibly formative to my passion in history, but also in education. Â The Hen & The Hog showcases local produce with a nod to the history of Halifax and its role in the 13 colonies quest for independence. Â I highly recommend a trip for supper, but it’d be even better if you planned a day trip using this guide. Â You can even spend the night in Halifax at the adorable Air BnB there.
The Best Places for an Açaà Bowl in Raleigh
I went on the quest to find the best açaà bowls in Raleigh and here is the round up of the best!  Be sure to visit these places and let me know what you think!
Western North Carolina Favorite: Lakeview at Fontana








For our 4th anniversary, David and I made a trip up to Lakeview at Fontana right outside of Bryson City in the Nantahala National Forest. Â It was an amazing trip and we hope to make this an annual tradition.
The 7 Best Burger Places in the Triangle
I shared my favorite burger places in Raleigh, ranging from upscale versions to Raleigh staples. Â I won’t lie, I had a great time researching this article, and not just for the milkshakes to wash down my burgers!
Our Packing List for New York City
I booked flights to New York City for David’s anniversary present. Â Year 4 gifts are supposed to be fruit, so I booked a trip to the big apple. Â I won’t lie, I thought it was pretty clever, especially from someone who isn’t a good gift giver (aka, me). Â Check out our packing guide here and what we did here.
The 4 Best Spas in Raleigh
I shared my four favorite spas in Raleigh featuring some staples you normally see on my Instagram and this space.
1st Year Updates to Our Ranch
David and I have had the best time adding personal touches and updates to our home. Â Check out our first year home updates here and our holiday home tour from 2017 and 2018 to see the progress as well.
The Best of North Carolina Holiday Gift Guide
My favorite post to write every year is the best of North Carolina holiday gift guide. Â While I write it for the holiday season, these are great gifts to give year round for birthdays, housewarming, etc.
The 7 Best Places to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Raleigh








Glory and I did the hard work of researching the best places to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Raleigh. Â This is another post that is good year round with the best places for chips & queso, margs, and guacamole.
7 Outfits for Transitioning to Spring
I shared 7 outfits for transitioning to spring in February on a beautiful, 70 degree weekend. Â These overalls are a definite favorite, even now.
As a thank you for following along on our adventures, please be sure to enter my favorite things of 2018 here. Â Giveaway ends on January 11!