Special Posts

A group of posts covering special events, programs, holidays, bucket list ideas, and fun “to do” lists in the Greater Raleigh area:

• James Mill Scottish Factor Store & 1755 John Mitchell Map (Urbanna, Va)
  With Fourth of July a week away, it’s only apropos that I recount last month’s trip to the historic Middle Peninsula area of Virginia. Not only is it full of small port towns vital to early trade, it’s also the home of the “most important map in American history.” But, before I get ahead of myself, ...
• 2017 Summer Bucket List
  Over a decade ago, my mom dubbed Bill and me as the traveling gypsies (she had a unique way with words). Having moved away from home after college, we travelled more weekends than not, and she routinely asked, “Where are the traveling gypsies headed this weekend?” We visited friends and family in VA and MD, and explored exciting new cities ...
• 2017 Mother’s Day Reflections & Raleigh Events
  Over the past two years, I’ve learned that Mother’s Day is all about the balance for me. After losing my mother so suddenly in 2015, I realize I yearn for more reflection and relaxation (aka alone time without kids) to counter my natural tendency for wide-open family fun and adventure. I’ve consciously let the reflection and relaxation needs ...
• A Tribute to Ripken
  Losing a furry friend never gets easier, especially when he becomes a part of your kids’ memories. A week ago Ripken suffered from uncontrollable seizures and we said goodbye to our sweet friend. Unlike our first Boston, Jerry, who also suffered from seizures, Ripken’s seizures started intensely and suddenly on Friday night, so we had little time to ...
• 2017 First Day Hikes
  Lace up your hiking boots and head outside on New Year’s Day for an organized hike in a local park.  Every state park in NC (city parks are catching on, too) organizes 2017 First Day Hikes to encourage fitness and reconnecting with nature in the new year. Last year we visited Murrells Inlet, SC for the first time, but this year ...
• Campfires & Fireflies in the Parks
  Several of my summer memories growing up involved sitting around campfires and chasing down fireflies in the backyard.  Here are some great upcoming programs going on in the Greater Triangle area and beyond that involve either a campfire or firefly fun!  Bring your family, neighbors and friends and explore the outdoors at night! Firefly Watch at Prairie Ridge Ecostation ...
• 2016 Summer Bucket List
  Our neighborhood pool opened, another year of preschool finished up (including Claire’s first year and Ashley’s final year) and we had kindergarten orientation this week! Phew…it’s been a busy week, but that also means it’s time to switch gears and think summer activities!  While we were able to cross a lot off our bucket list goals from last ...
• Mother’s Day 2016
  Celebrate the Mom in your life with an adventure!  Here’s a list of upcoming organized events in the local parks and my personal mix of outdoor outings combined with food and beer (give Mom what she really wants)!  Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there and cheers to making fun memories.   Organized Programs Mother’s Day Tea ...
• Joslin Garden: 2016 Open Garden Day
  It’s always fun and interesting to re-visit a place you haven’t been to in awhile and I look forward to exploring Joslin Garden for Open Garden Day this upcoming Saturday.  Joslin Garden is a private residence inside the beltline that features over four wooded acres of rare and native plants.  William and Mary Coker Joslin have gifted ...
• Celebrating a 5-year Old & the Top 5 Bike Riding Parks for Preschoolers
  And, just like that, I have a 5-year old daughter!  Lately, I’ve been reflecting a lot on the past 5 years and this birthday is hard to accept.  This birthday means the kindergarten milestone is just around the corner in August and it’ll be her first birthday I can’t share with my mom.  My baby is really growing ...
• 2016 Valentine’s Day Ideas in the Parks
  Why not celebrate Valentine’s Day by exploring a park or program with a loved one?  Whether it’s a spouse, friend, or special little one these ideas are sure to entertain and provide fun memories: Paint Your HeART Out at Sertoma Arts Center – Saturday, February 6 from 10:30am-noon; create your own Valentine-inspired artwork on canvas; for all ...
• 2015 Holidays in the Parks
  With school out for a few weeks over the holidays are you looking for some activities to keep the kids entertained?  Or do you need last minute gift ideas? Check the Leisure Ledger and gift a loved one an experience! From crafts, games, movies and nature hikes, the local parks have fun activities for all ages! ...

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