While Rick took you through our unforgettable Alaskan cruise, I get to share the second half of our summer travel adventures: Ireland! And let me tell you, we struck total gold with the weather across the pond. It hardly rained at all because they were experiencing an unbelievable heat wave with blue skies and sunshine the entire time.
Just for Fun
Rick’s “Not So” Local Lowdown: Our Unforgettable Alaskan Adventure
We recently got back from an incredible bucket-list trip up northwest to Vancouver, Victoria, and Alaska, and I just had to share some highlights with you all.
Rick’s “Kind of” Local Lowdown: Our New Favorite Travel Hack ✈️🌴
As the summer heats up, Annie and I are always looking for a quick getaway to recharge. But to be completely honest, we’ve never paid much attention to discount airlines. Like most people, we’ve heard the horror stories of hidden fees, cramped seats, and endless delays.
That all changed recently when Breeze Airways expanded its footprint at RDU. When we saw they added a direct flight to Key West—one of our absolute favorite places on earth—we knew we had to check it out.
Rick’s Local Lowdown: My Favorite Way to Outsource the Dirty Work 🍖🧼
If you know me, you know I live for my Traeger smoker. There is nothing better than a slow-smoked meal on a Saturday afternoon. But there is also nothing worse than the realization that the grill is a greasy, carbon-caked mess and needs a deep clean before the first burger hits the grate.
I used to spend my Sunday mornings scrubbing grease and vacuuming ash, but I finally found a better way: NC Grill Rescue.
Stop and Smell the Bluebells: A Secret Garden Date in Oberlin Village 🌷✨
On Saturday, April 11, 2026, the historic Isabelle Bowen Henderson Home and Gardens is opening its gates for a special tour.
Rick’s (Not So) Local Lowdown: Cap Mansion Resort in St. Lucia
Sweet Annie and I recently checked a big one off the bucket list—celebrating her birthday in St. Lucia—and I just had to share. Don’t worry, next month we’ll be back to highlighting local favorites. But even if travel isn’t on your calendar right now, I hope you’ll enjoy this little digital getaway.
Local Lowdown With Rick: Capital Seafood Market 🦐🐟
We love discovering local spots that quietly do things the right way, and Capital Seafood Market is one of those hidden gems that keeps us coming back again and again. No flashy storefront. No big-box vibes. Just incredibly fresh seafood, friendly faces, and a setup that makes your day instantly better.
Ham Jam Is Back! Enter to Win a $50 Gift Card to Celebrate the Holidays 🐷
Ham Jam is back! Enter to win a $50 gift card to the Honey Baked Ham Company.







