Triangle Style Magazine - Fall 2023

FALL STYLE

SATISFY YOUR PIZZA CRAVINGS HIT THE TRAILS

FALL 2023

NEW SLEEPWEAR ARRIVING DAILY...

DESIGNER BEDDING, BATH AND HOME ACCE

ESSORIES

THE DUX 3003: FORM MEETS FUNCTION.

For over 90 years, DUX has blended sleep science with world-class craftsmanship to deliver one of the most advanced bed available. DUX, headquartered in Sweden, is committed to improving life through better sleep, combining research, the finest materials and the most experienced craftsmen, to ultimately provide a more healthful sleep. Resolve to invest in your health. Visit a DUXIANA store near you to discover the difference The DUX Bed can make in your life.

THE VILLAGE - SHOP LOCAL -

BOUTIQUE

2702 Hillsborough Road | Durham, NC 27705

thesmittenboutique.com | 919 530 1000

Monday-Friday 10-5 and Saturday 10-4

EXCELLENCE. EXPERIENCE. EXCLUSIVITY.

We

As

DR. CHRISTOPHER J. MOREA BOARD CERTIFIED IN PLASTIC SURGERY

We are a wonderful center filled with delightful boutiques to visit, all within walking distance. We have everything you need from fabulous restaurants, delicious ice cream, exquisite clothing boutique, hair styling to home school needs. Located on Raleigh's premier Glenwood Avenue. Once you visit our center you will see why we are at the center of your life - close by and easy to access.

SHOPPING CENTER

RETAILER SPOTLIGHT

6001 GLENWOOD AVENUE, RALEIGH | (1.5 MILES WEST OF CRABTREE VALLEY MALL)

Antique

Grandfather

Wrist

2004 South Main Street, #104, Wake Forest (919) 556-8963

Tuesday-Friday 9-5

Saturday 9-1

18 GET THE LOOK

With these fabulous Fall outfits from three local boutiques

32 FALL BEAUTY

These five items are worthy of your summer routine

34 FALL SCENTS

Five perfumes that are worthy of rotation

44 CRAVING PIZZA?

Check out these five eateries known for their pizzas

50 RALEIGH HIKES AND TRAILS - PART 2

Five easy ways to instantly upgrade any space.

62 GET OUTSIDE

Check out what’s coming to the Triangle

64 COOKING APPS

Make the most of your meals with these five must-have phone apps

72 EARLY TO RISE

Six ways waking up early makes your life better

{in every issue}

38 ask anna

56 triangle trends

65 ask the experts

66 on exhibit : North Carolina Museum of Art

76 triangle fashionistas

{on the cover}

Photographer: Dimitri Williams Photography

dimitriphotos.com

Styling: Crystal Watts

Model: Sarah Kleckley

Location: Killjoy, Raleigh

Outfit: Zuna Apparel, Raleigh

• Modern • Cuckoo

• Wall & Mantle

(919)833.0107

1028 OBERLIN RD, SUITE 228 RALEIGH, NC 27605

WWW.PLUMHAIRATELIER.COM

TRIANGLE STYLE

FALL 2023

PUBLISHER: Parsons People, LLC

MANAGING

EDITOR: Erica Parsons Butler

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHY: Dimitri Williams Photography

COPY EDITOR: Amy Reynolds

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Crystal Watts • Heather Parsons

Anna Haddock

Leigh Peters • B. Conrad

April Jones • Lou Scott

Triangle Style Magazine is published four times per year by Parsons People, LLC. All editorial contained within is the property of the publisher and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. The publisher accepts no liability for the accuracy of statements made by the writers or advertisers.

©2021 Parsons People, LLC

TRIANGLE STYLE MAGAZINE

Post Office Box 19535 Raleigh, North Carolina 27619

Phone: (919) 633-9176

www.trianglestyle.com

FOR EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: email your ideas to info@trianglestyle.com

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Call 919-633-9176 or Email erica@trianglestyle.com

M.

The Agency Kitchen & Bar

BB’s Crispy Chicken

Bank of America

Brixx Wood Fired Pizza

Chick-fil-A

Chuy’s Tex-Mex

Cinnaholic

Club Pilates

Cold Stone Creamery

Courtyard Marriott

DICED Salads, Wraps & Bowls

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

Diamond Nail Spa

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Flour Power Kids Cooking School

Golf Galaxy

Guitar Center

Harris Teeter

Hickory Tavern

Hobby Lobby

Improv Comedy Club

Jersey Mike’s Subs

Lotus Cinemas

Mattress Firm

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

Orangetheory Fitness

Panera Bread

Paragon Theaters

Parkside Family Dental

Penny Lanes

Peoples Bank

Persis Indian Grill

Petco

Phenix Salon Suites

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

Pura Vida Studio

RH Outlet

Rosecomb Beer Garden

Signature Nail Spa

Smallcakes A Cupcakery

Smoothie King

Sport Clips

Starbucks

Stretch Zone

Sunrise Dental

Supercuts

Sushi at the Park

T-Mobile

Target

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café

Tijuana Flats

Tricity Family Medicine & Urgent Care Clinic

UPS

Verizon Wireless

Waxing the City

Wok on Fire

I-540 & NC 55 • Cary, NC 27519

I-40, exit 278 on O’Kelly Chapel Road

parksidetowncommons.com

Posh meets eccentric

nestled in the heart of downtown raleigh, killjoy is your go-to destination for an unforgettable drink experience.

Killjoy is a colorful, comfortable cocktail bar where all drinks are treated with the same exquisite respect. Posh meets eccentric here with an envy-worthy playlist and a relaxing vibe in a place where your mixologist takes care in handcrafting each drink to your exact taste and preference. We invite you to sip a classic cocktail, choose a selection from our innovative, spirit-free menu, or ignite your inspiration by creating your own potion made from the highest quality ingredients. Every drink we create is treated with the utmost respect and it shows. From our kitchen, you’ll find small plates to enjoy from the culinary direction of Chef Jake Wood. Whether you’re shaking off a long day or kicking off a big night, you’ve come to the right place.

Glenwood South 116 N West Street, Raleigh, NC 27603

killjoycocktail.com

GET THE LOOK:

FALL STYLE

GORGEOUS STYLES FROM LOCAL BOUTIQUES

Location: Killjoy, Raleigh

Model : Vama Shah

Photographer: Dimitri Williams

Photography

dimitriphotos.com

Styling: Crystal Watts

Skirt, sweater, belt, earrings - Smitten Boutique, Durham

IG: @crystalcwatts

Top: Smitten Pants: Smitten Bag: Smitten Bag Pin: At Ease

Sweater:Smitten

Bracelets : Smitten

Dress: At Ease

Necklace: Smitten

Dress and bracelets: Smitten

Top:At Ease Pants: Smitten

Top and bracelets: Smitten Pants: At Ease

Dress: At Ease

Black Top, pants & Necklace - At Ease Boutique, Raleigh

Necklace & Paints - At Ease Boutique, Raleigh

Dress: At Ease

white short sleeve dress, earrings - Smitten Boutique, Durham

Shawl, Top and Pants: At Ease

Necklace: Smitten

Dress: Zuna Apparel

WHAT IS FAVORITE COLOR COMBINATION?

My favorite color combo is pink and white!

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE TRIANGLE’S HIDDEN GEM?

I would definitely say North Hills, it’s my favorite place to just go get ice cream and walk around to pass time

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WANT TO GET BETTER AT?

I want to get better at doing my makeup, I think there’s always room for improvement and I love experimenting with new looks and styles

WHAT ARE YOUR THREE FAVORITE INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS YOU FOLLOW?

@arianagrande @selenagomez @zendaya my favorite all time inspirations!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCT

My favorite beauty product would definitely be highlighter, you can never go wrong with adding some glow to your look!

WHAT IS ONE MUST HAVE ITEM IN YOUR PURSE?

My lipgloss is one must have item from my purse. I love using the NYX Butter Gloss in Rocky Road

WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR SUMMER? Going on a private boat ride during the sunset in Virginia Beach

HOW WOULD YOU ENTERTAIN OUT OF TOWN GUESTS?

I would host a pool movie day where people could swim and watch movies at the same time!

CURRENT SONG ON REPEAT?

New Romantics- Taylor Swift

LAST TV SERIES YOU WATCHED?

The Summer I Turned Pretty

FALL BEAUTY

AS SUMMERY FLAVORS WAFT AWAY ON THE OCEAN BREEZE AND PUMPKIN SPICED-EVERYTHING TAKES OVER, YOU KNOW IT’S TIME TO CHANGE YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE. WITH THE COOLER WEATHER COMING IN, BE READY FOR IT WITH THESE 5 MUST-HAVE FALL BEAUTY PRODUCTS TO HELP YOU MAKE THE SEASONAL TRANSITION IN THE MOST BEAUTIFUL OF WAYS

Peter Thomas Roth Water

Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Mask

Summer can really sap your skin, and with the cooler, drier air, you’ll want to keep it plumped up and hydrated. With this delightful formula from Peter Thomas Roth, you’ll feel the difference in your skin in just minutes. All you need is a little bit to go from dull and dry to hydrated and luminous!

OVME BOOST ANTIOXIDANT COMPLEX

Don’t forget a good serum is the key to a beautiful complexion in any season. Ovme Boost fills your skin with l-ascorbic acid and ferulic acid, both of which support collagen production and provide a measure of protection from environmental aggressors. While you should always protect your skin with sunscreen during daylight hours, this one will definitely add a little more protection while giving your skin an infusion of nutrition deep down where it needs it most.

NOYAH FOOD GRADE LIP SCRUB

After the toll summer took on your lips, help restore them so that those fall lipstick colors smooth right on with perfection. Noyah Food Grade Lip Scrub is the safe and tasty way to buff lips into prime condition.

JVN COMPLETE BLOWOUT MILK

Finally, no look is complete without a gorgeous mane framing your face. The summer sun likely sapped your hair’s spirit, so get it back with JVN Complete Blowout Milk. It protects your hair from heat styling and humidity to help you get that perfect style.

TRUE BOTANICALS EVERYDAY SKIN TINT

If you want to keep your skin looking and feeling light and airy, try using True Botanicals Everyday Skin Tint. You’ll get light coverage and SPF 30 protection as it infuses skin with moisture. This plant-active formula makes putting your best face forward an uncomplicated procedure.

GOOD KIND PURE

VANILLA GINGER

EAU DE TOILETTE SPRAY

FIVE FALL SCENTS

JO MALONE

LONDON

WOOD SAGE & SEA SALT DECO COLOGNE

Windswept walks along the beach, the air fresh with sea salt and the mineral scent of rugged cliffs. Mingling with the woody earthiness of sage.

sweet vanilla with spicy ginger and a lily note for a hint of autumn sophistication.

ESTÉE LAUDER PARADISE MOON EAU DE

PA

RFUM SPRAY

Nectar-like Paradise Moon is a Leather Floral scent. As the richest, boldest floral in the Luxury Collection, it truly belongs to our Rich Spices & Leather fragrance family. with notes of Osmanthus

Trilogy

Cistus Oil

Leather Accord

SKYLAR

FALL CASHMERE

A fragrance to capture the spiced, creamy, and luscious vibes of the autumn season. With notes of Cinnamon Bark, Roasted Almond Spiced Ginger

MAISON MARGIELA 'REPLICA' AUTUMN VIBES

This crisp, woody perfume balances a note of fresh fir balsam with spicy cardamom alongside the warm scent of cedarwood.

Hi Anna - I was on your website and saw you offered Accufit, which got me excited as the holiday season is quickly approaching which means lots of get togethers. Can you tell me more about the procedure, how quickly do we see results and how long does it last? Thanks so much - Kimberly

Hi Kimberly! Thank you so much for reaching out! Accufit™ is one of our favorite treatments and is an amazing tool for building muscle and toning the body. Now is the perfect time to start your body contouring journey to be ready to rock it during your holiday get togethers. Accufit™ uses electromagnetic stimulation to contract your muscles far deeper than you can achieve on your own or at the gym. During your treatment, our Body Specialist will apply electrodes to the surface of the skin, and waveforms will simulate the actual work out. The treatment, which patients find very comfortable, includes a series of twists, holds, grips and taps to target your muscles. For full results, we recommend an initial series of 4 treatments performed within the first two weeks. After that, maintenance treatments can be performed as desired. We love this treatment because it is safe (FDA-cleared!) and there is no downtime. You are able to return to your regular routine right after treatment. If you’re serious about your fitness, Accufit could be a great option. The first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our Body Specialists to see if you’re a candidate. Good luck!

Anna Churchill is the founder of Synergy Spa & Aesthetics with two locations in Raleigh. She also teaches corrective makeup and innovative skin care to dermatologists, plastic surgeons, aestheticians, and spa owners worldwide.

FOSTERING A NEW GENERATION OF ARTIST-ENTREPRENEURS

The Artist Lounge Raleigh is an art-centered, community-driven art exhibition and private event space. We exist to rekindle the imagination by hosting curated art events that connect artists, entrepreneurs, and supporters.

Georgia Tardy Art is a fine art, apparel, and art education studio. GTA’s company focus is to inspire people to cultivate their creativity and live out an authentic expression of their life.

Georgia’s intent is to spread the message that “art is everything, everywhere and in everyone.” Her mission is to foster a new generation of artist-entrepreneurs by building a fine art studio, creative agency, and technology education center where artists, with desire and demonstrated talent, can nurture their creativity and learn how to monetize it.

PIZZERIA FAULISI

First, we’re starting our pizza adventure in thriving Downtown Cary, which has so many fun and new things to see and do these days! Nestled in a cozy corner neighbored by Bond Brothers Beer, Sidebar, and RBF, Pizzeria

Faulisi is my fave pizza destination in Cary. Walk in and immediate feelings of cozy will consume you! This gorgeous restaurant has a home-like, curated feel full of bold colors, deep tones, and vintage photographs. All of their pizzas are 12 inches in diameter, thin crust and are 100% wood fired. As they proudly state on their site, “There will be char aka flavor.” Pizzeria

Faulisi uses freshly milled flour from Boulted Bread in Raleigh along with caputo flour from Italy combined to make their unique dough. This local spot is a must!

POOLSIDE PIES

Esteemed Raleigh restaurateur, Ashley Christiansen, brought us pizza gem, Poolside Pies, a few years ago and the Downtown Raleigh pizza scene has been forever changed since. This family-friendly, Italian-inspired experience serves delicious pizzas and specialty cocktails. I love the unique flavors this spot brings to the menu. Here are a few I’ve been eyeing so you can get a feel for the magic: Creamed Spinach w/ artichoke, oyster mushroom, and ricotta

salata, The Duke w/ Duke's Mayo, horseradish, heirloom tomato, buttermilk cheddar, black pepper, and parm, and Summer Squash w/ pesto, lemon ricotta, pepitas, and pecorino. Fun fact about me: I love a squash pizza (more on this topic if you keep reading.) All this being said, if you’re looking to satisfy your pizza craving while in Downtown Raleigh, look no further than Poolside Pies.

PIZZERIA TORO

Next on our pizza journey, we’re trekking to Downtown Durham. I couldn’t wait any longer to touch on my squash pizza fondness. A few years ago, I finally made my way into Pizzeria Toro and fell in love. It was love at first bite of the squash pizza special. Though you can’t always find this flavor on the menu, I trust any seasonal special they dish out. You cannot go wrong with your order. Their wood-fired pizzas, salads, and snacks are all the highest quality and packed with flavor. Top it all off with one of their great wine selections and your pizza evening is complete. Cheers!

PIZZERIA MERCATO

Grab your pizza passport, we’re going to Carrboro. Pizzeria Mercato is a newto-me spot and I wish I had known about it way sooner. This pizza restaurant serves Neopolitan-inspired pizza cooked in brick-lined ovens, fresh salads, textured vegetable dishes, handmade pastas and luxurious gelatos. This statement says it all, a “seasonally focused restaurant featuring a constantly changing, of-the-moment menu that relies on and is inspired by the nationally renowned Carrboro Farmers Market.” It’s the local focus for me. Local = freshest = flavor = great pizza. That is all you need to know, my friends. Try Pizzeria Mercato to find “Where Pizza meets the South!”

LA DOLCE VITA PIZZERIA

Okay I’m really taking you on a trip now, but trust me the drive will be worth it! I make the drive to Sanford for this spot more than I probably should, but I just can’t help it! Located in Downtown Sanford, you’ll find La Dolce Vita Pizzeria. I know we’re here for pizza but I HAVE to talk about their steak sandwich for a moment. It is phenomenal and I highly recommend you add it to your order even if you just wanted pizza, trust me. The chipotle sauce lives in my mind rent free. Back to the za, La Dolce Vita believes “in simple, hand-crafted pizza that embodies true Italian taste.” To pair with their delicious pizza and pasta dishes, they also always have 16 beers on tap! If you’re ready for a fun change of scenery and delicious dishes, head to Sanford and try this yummy Italian escape.

Photo by Superica

PIZZA COMBO’S TO TRY

HERE ARE FIVE UNUSUALLY GOOD PIZZA COMBINATIONS TO TRY — WE’RE SURE YOU’LL LOVE AT LEAST A COUPLE OF THESE. TRY THESE PIZZA TOPPING COMBINATIONS, WHETHER YOU’RE ORDERING PIZZA FOR DINNER OR BAKING YOUR OWN PIES.

Pesto and Sun-dried Tomatoes

The Margarita is perhaps the most classic pizza style, and it shines for its simplicity — it’s topped with traditional Italian ingredients: tomato sauce, basil and mozzarella. What else do you need?

Well, there are other, more creative ways of adding Italian flair to pizzas with equally traditional but more exciting ingredients. Instead of using basil leaves, use pesto and substitute that uninteresting tomato sauce with juicy and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes. Now that’s a pizza that tastes like Italy. Top with grated mozzarella, and you’ve got yourself a sweet and savory pie for special occasions. Finish your pie with sprinkled oregano and drizzled olive oil.

Chicken BBQ

Depending on where you live, this pizza topping combination can be incredibly common or completely strange. The combo is a staple in California-style pizzas, in which chefs top their pies with the oddest ingredients, including salmon, arugula and, yes, chicken BBQ.

Although California-style pizza is often considered gourmet, there’s nothing fancy about good-old, messy BBQ chicken. The topping is successful because BBQ sauce and roasted chicken are delicious — this is a no-brainer. And although trendy, the chicken BBQ pizza has been around since the mid1980s, so it’s forty years old! Now, you have to try it!

Caramelized Onions and Bacon

Not everyone likes onions, but that’s because people are used to raw or undercooked onions. When caramelized, thinly sliced onions are tender and sweet and can counter the saltiness of the crunchiest bacon bits.

This pizza topping combination borrows a play from the French region of Alsace’s playbook since onions and lardons are typical in their local pizza style, the tarte flambée. For the best experience, top your pizza with white sauce instead of tomato sauce with caramelized onions, bacon and lots of cheese.

Pineapple and Jalapenoa

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Does pineapple belong in pizza? It does! But not always. The thing with pineapple is that it roasts beautifully in a pizza oven. The problem? It’s too sweet.

Well, that’s where jalapeno peppers come in. You see, spiciness counters sweetness. At the same time, sweetness balances hot flavors. That’s why pineapple and jalapeno are an unusually good pizza topping combination — the ingredients balance each other, making the pizza neither too sweet nor too spicy. Add your favorite meat for exciting combinations that give a new meaning to pineapple in pizza.

Nutella and Banana

Sweet pizza pies have been around for a while. However, most people haven’t tried them yet — yes, dessert pizza is an odd concept, but it works. Instead of tomato sauce, you can use Nutella or cream cheese. As for the toppings, everything goes from all types of fruit and nuts to marshmallows.

And although there are many sweet pizza combinations, our favorite is one of the most common; a modern classic, the Nutella and banana pizza. There’s something special about the hazelnut spread and those sweet banana slices that make this one the pepperoni pizza or the sweet pizza family. What are your favorite pizza topping combinations?

Neuse River Greenway Trail

Note: Through spring 2024, there is a three-mile section of the Neuse River Greenway Trail that will be under construction, with a detour provided by the City of Raleigh to navigate around the area.

The Neuse River Greenway Trail—a 27.5-mile paved, uninterrupted greenway that stretches from Falls Lake in North Raleigh to the Wake County line in southeast Raleigh—is a year-round haven for outdoor recreation. With views of historical sites as well as winding boardwalk areas and suspension bridges crossing over wetlands, the trail is open to joggers, walkers, runners, cyclists, roller-bladers and others. Many consider the Neuse River Greenway Trail to be the gem of the 100-plus-mile Capital Area Greenway System.

There's no shortage of starting and stopping points along the trail, but one easy access point for visitors is to begin at the Falls Lake trailhead, where The Bike Guy—a fullservice bike shop with rental bikes available—sits right beside the parking lot. Heading south, you'll find lots of families, children and more foot traffic in general in the first few miles before the path clears quite a bit. From the trailhead, it's approximately eight miles of flat terrain until you reach Horseshoe Farm Nature Preserve, a 146-acre jewel of open space surrounded by some of the most scenic greenway miles in the entire area (a parking lot here is also a good option for starting a run or ride).

The southern portion of the trail travels through more wetlands and secluded areas and is less trafficked, but equally scenic. A good place to start is Anderson Point Park, which has plenty of parking, bathrooms and water fountains (note: heading south from this point, you may not find another place to stop for water). From here, you'll begin to find white picket fences running along wide open land and a mix of shaded and sunny portions of the trail. If you time it right, you'll find acres upon acres of sunflower fields in full bloom in early or mid-July. It's approximately 11 miles from Anderson Point Park to the end of the trail, with just one or two short and small hills to compete with.

Total mileage: 55+ miles if you're up for a full out-andback, but lots of starting and stopping points are available. If you're really feeling up for a challenge, check out Oak City Cycling Project's Neuse Deuce Challenge—a oneday, 200km (129 miles) route mostly completed along the Neuse River Greenway Trail.

Wilkerson Nature

Preserve and the Mountains-to-Sea Trail

Perched along the southern shores of Falls Lake State Recreation Area, this 157-acre outdoor retreat opened in 2006 as the City of Raleigh's first designated nature preserve. Dr. Annie Louise Wilkerson, a renowned Raleigh doctor with many pioneering achievements in her 53-year career in medicine, donated the property for the purpose of promoting nature and wildlife education. Today, the park office and AWL Education Center offer hands-on displays and craft areas for children, and programs—including bird watching, astronomy nights and art classes—are offered to the public.

The preserve's open fields and two miles of hiking trails meander between meadows, through an oak-hickory forest, around a one-acre farm pond and past hidden rock crops, making for easy exploring for the entire family.

Those looking for a bit more adventure will be happy to know that Wilkerson Nature Preserve is a perfect starting spot for a jaunt along the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST, known as "N.C.'s hiking trail," stretches more than 1,000 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks). Connecting on the north end of the nature preserve, hikers can follow the white dot markers on trees to take the MST approximately three miles to the Visitor Center near Falls Lake Dam, trekking through a super-varied array of landscapes, plant life and wildlife along the way. The round-trip hike from Wilkerson to Falls Lake Dam and back is among our picks for the best six-mile hikes in the Raleigh area..

Total mileage: Six miles with the option to continue on the MST for many more

Best for: Trail running; easy hiking through varied terrain

Art to Heart Trail

Beginning at the North Carolina Museum of Art (where parking and admission to the museum are free) and ending in downtown Raleigh, this 5.9-mile, paved trail winds through the museum’s beautiful 164-acre park, passes behind Meredith College, cuts through the main campus of North Carolina State University, zips by Pullen Park and finishes in the heart of the city just outside of the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts (where coffee and treats from spots like Bittersweet, Boulted Bread and lucettegrace await nearby).

The trail can be done in reverse, of course, and bike racks are on hand at the museum so you can lock up for a bit while you explore the galleries (highly recommended) or set up for a lunch break in the park outside. Relatively flat, the Art to Heart Trail does have a couple standout hills on the edge of the museum park. If coming from downtown, the final hill into the museum park is a short and steep 0.2-mile climb with an eight-percent average gradient. According to Strava— a popular GPS tracking app for athletes— cyclists have made more than 20,000 attempts at this hill since 2011.

For those interested in a more leisurely stroll, you really never have to leave the museum park. A one-mile paved trail, the Blue Loop, is open to walkers, skaters, joggers and cyclists—families with young children, strollers and dogs are a common sight along this path that traverses past some of the park's major art pieces. An additional mile of unpaved trails, not open to cyclists, is a perfect way to find some solitude amongst nature.

Total mileage: 5.9 miles if you complete the trail in one direction

Best for: Leisurely strolls; running; bike rides; families; art lovers; college campus views; picnics

Green Hills County Park

This county park, now with a brandnew name, opened in July of 2010, just two years after the landfill that previously occupied the space ceased operations. North Wake Landfill District Park—as it was called until recently— was the result of transforming the 73acre site back into a public space filled with greenery and a massive hill that's perfect for running and biking up and down.

The park is made of 1.8 miles of paved trails, two miles of mountain biking trails, a small mountain biking skills practice area and a 1.4-mile cycling, running and walking lane that circle the main hill. The main attraction, The Top of the Hill Trail, is a short, steep and rocky climb (almost 200 feet of elevation are gained in just under a tenth of a mile), rewarded with a 360-degree view of Wake County that can't be found anywhere else—on a clear day you'll be able to see the downtown Raleigh skyline in the distance (nearly 10 miles away!). A second steep hill, slightly smaller and just a stone's throw away, makes for a good warmup or practice run.

One of the best things about Green Hills is the connection to the Neuse River Greenway Trail. Starting at the Falls Lake trailhead on the Neuse River Greenway Trail, you get the chance to branch off towards Green Hills just 2.6 miles into your trek—a short, 1.5-mile detour on the Abbotts Creek Greenway takes you straight into the entrance of the county park, giving runners and cyclists a chance to tackle some hills before continuing on their way.

Total mileage: Approximately two miles; repeat as necessary

Best for: Workouts; hill repeats; beginner mountain biking; running

Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve

Opened in late 2020, this 405-acre nature preserve in southeast Wake County offers nearly a dozen miles of walking and mountain biking trails that wind through forests and fields—passing by working farmland—and connect to the previously mentioned Neuse River Greenway Trail. The land, purchased by Triangle Land Conservancy in 2013, was owned by the Williamson family for more than two centuries and most recently used for farming tobacco and later cattle.

The gently rolling and sometimes rocky landscape has been immediately popular amongst mountain bikers of all skill levels, and one-way paths that have bikers and hikers moving in opposite directions reduces trail conflicts. The preserve is mostly shaded (aside from the entry area seen below), and Two Loop Pond— a walking-only trail—provides an even lesser-trafficked escape with wonderful water views (and a rock outcrop where Bailey and Sarah Williamson used to sit for picnics).

Note that dogs are welcome (on a leash!), and the preserve is closed when wet (otherwise open seven days a week).

Total mileage: More than 10 total miles of connected loops, making it easy to choose your desired distance

Best for: Rural nature walks; beginner-to-intermediate mountain biking; puppy exploring

Shelley Lake Park

The paved, two-mile trail that loops around Shelley Lake is a favorite for many in the North Raleigh area. Relatively flat, and shade-covered for about half of the loop, the trail provides great views of the lake almost the entire way around (and is a go-to spot for sunset watching).

Because Shelley Lake tends to draw a pretty good crowd (including lots of kids and dogs), it's better for runners and walkers rather than cyclists, especially at peak times. A couple of open spaces that are great for families to kick a soccer ball around or throw a frisbee, plus bathrooms, water fountains and a fishing pier are also onsite. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—as of spring 2018, it's reported that multiple blue heron nests and at least one bald eagle's nest are active!

Total mileage: Two miles

Best for: Leisurely strolls; families; lake views; running

Photo by Wes Hicks on Unsplash

ASHEVILLE: A HAVEN FOR NATURE LOVERS

Nestled amidst the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, art, and history. Begin your trip with a visit to the iconic Biltmore Estate, a sprawling mansion that showcases the grandeur of America's Gilded Age. For a taste of Asheville's vibrant art scene, explore the diverse galleries in the River Arts District. Don't forget to indulge in the city's culinary delights by visiting the award-winning restaurants and breweries scattered throughout the city.

CHARLOTTE: A PERFECT BLEND OF CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT

If you're seeking a vibrant urban experience, Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina, won't disappoint. Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame, where you can immerse yourself in the excitement and history of stock car racing. Explore the Mint Museum, which houses a wide array of art collections, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic Fourth Ward district . End your trip by indulging in the city's diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from Southern barbeque to international cuisines.

WILMINGTON: EMBRACE THE COASTAL CHARM

If you're a fan of breathtaking sunsets and coastal vibes, Wilmington should be your go-to destination. Explore the historic Downtown Wilmington, where you can stroll along the Riverwalk and soak in the scenic views of the Cape Fear River. Visit the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial, a World War II-era battleship turned museum, and delve into its fascinating history. For a relaxing beach experience, head to Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach, where you can lounge on the sandy shores or try your hand at various watersports.

OUTER BANKS: UNCOVER THE SECRETS OF THE COAST

For an unforgettable coastal getaway, head to the Outer Banks, a collection of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. Start your journey at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where you can dive into the rich maritime history and witness the iconic Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. Explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, where aviation history was made, or relax on the pristine beaches of Nags Head. Don't miss the chance to sample the local seafood delicacies at one of the renowned seafood restaurants along the coast

BOONE: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND NATURE

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Begin your adventure by embarking on a hike in the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway or exploring the awe-inspiring Grandfather Mountain, where you can witness panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Dive into the rich history of the region by visiting the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum or the Daniel Boone Native Gardens. Complete your trip by indulging in the local cuisine and shopping for unique crafts at the Appalachian State University Farmers Market.

TRIANGLE TRENDS

YOUR RESOURCE FOR GREAT GIFT IDEAS AND SAVINGS

GRAND CASABLANCA PORCELAIN DIFFUSER

This elegant, vintage-styled porcelain diffuser is a beautiful addition to any room. No need for reeds, the porcelain flower is designed to draw attention and draw in the oil and diffuse the fragrance throughout the room. Comes in a lovely gift box, making it a great gift!

FROM MUSEUM STORES TO THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME...

Accessories inspired by architecture, nature and art. Established in Buenos Aires in 2004, Iskin Sisters design contemporary pieces for the modern woman.

At Ease at Falls Village Shopping Center

6625 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh (929) 322-2338

MOXI LASER FOR SUMMER REJUVENATION

Price: Starting at $400 Moxi is a gentle fractionated laser designed to effectively treat the visible signs of aging and produce evenly toned, radiant skin in as little as a single treatment. This treatment is safe for all skin types and is especially effective for those with active lifestyles, as it can be done all year round!

Synergy:

603 Glenwood Avenue and 8300 Health Park, Raleigh, (919) 510-5130 www.feelsynergy.com

COME VISIT RALEIG H’S HIDDEN TREASURE! Oak Park Shopping Center is a wonderful center filled with delightful boutiques to visit all within walking distance. We have everything in one area to serve you from fabulous restaurants, home decorating services, picture framing needs, holiday baskets to Homeschool supplies or Supplies for your Holiday Costumes and party. We are located on Raleigh's premier Glenwood Avenue. Oakpark Shopping Center, 6001 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh(919) 787-0181, www.oakparkshops.com

EVERY TICK TOCK MATTERS AT CLOCKTIQUES! We specialize in repairs of antique clocks and watches from the 1600's to present. We have a fully stocked showroom for your enjoyment and shopping pleasure. Looking for a gift what better than a timepiece that could become your family heirloom for generations to come. Watch battery replacement and adjustment available. All repairs done in our fully equipped repair shop on site. Clocktiques, 2004 South Main St., Suite 104, Wake Forest, 919-556-8963. www.clocktiquesrc.com

New Sleepwear

Arriving Daily...

Opulence at Southern Pines

at The Mews: 280 NW Broad St., Southern Pines 910.692.2744

at Village District: 400 Daniels St., Raleigh 919.467.1781

at Sawgrass Village: 310 Front St., Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

OpulenceOfSouthernPines.com

Serving The Carolinas & More For 25 Years

SO MUCH STUF AT THE SUCH

Shopping fun for everyone!

puzzles!!!

TRUST EXPERIENCE. Breast implants or breast augmentation is one of the most highly requested plastic surgery procedures in our Raleigh facility. With 25 years of experience, Dr. Morea has augmented over 10,000 breasts. Breast augmentation, also known as breast enhancement or breast enlargement, involves the use of breast implants to enlarge the size of a woman’s breasts. Morea Plastic Surgical Center 7700 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh , (919) 845-7880

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EXCEPTIONAL LEASING & MANAGEMENT SERVICES

For 20 Years And Counting, Triangle Area Landlords Have Trusted Eva With Their Home…Because YOU Have Enough To Worry About.

Eva VanAken…Block & Associates Realty 919/819.8477, EVanAken@BlockRealty.com www.BlockRealty.com

PARSONS PEOPLE

— Prints and Originals —

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FALL CONCERT & FESTIVALS

BUGFEST, Sepember

16

Experience more than 100 exhibits, crafts, games and activities at BugFest, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences' annual event that lets you interact with entomologists and other scientists while learning about the fascinating world of bugs. Featuring the ever-popular Café Insecta, where the brave can sample buggy dishes prepared by local chefs. The best part? The event is totally free for the expected 35,000 attendees.

ASIA FEST Sepember

16

Presented by Asian Focus at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, the 7th annual Asia Fest will be a celebration of Asian cultures with live stage performances, games for the kids, global street food vendors and much more (including the Raleigh area's only dragon boat race!).

Koka Booth Amphitheatre boothamphitheatre.com

IBMA BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 29 -30TH

The giant, free festival caps off “the most important week in bluegrass.” The festival features the genres’ biggest stars, hall of fame members, emerging artists and some amazing kids. All of bluegrass music’s roots and branches are represented in 2023 and what a joyful noise it will be!

- HOZIERUNREAL UNEARTH TOUR 2023 WITH SPECIAL GUEST MADISON CUNNINGHAM

OCTOBER 3

RED HAT AMPHITHEATER redhatamphitheater.com

TRIANGLE OKTOBERFEST

October 6 - October 7

The Raleigh area's biggest Oktoberfest celebration, Triangle Oktoberfest at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary provides plenty of familyfriendly activities including live music, storytelling, dancing and traditional Bavarian food and fare (plus local and authentic German beers on hand).

Koka Booth Amphitheatre boothamphitheatre.com

N.C. STATE FAIR

Oct. 12-22

The largest annual event in the state, the N.C. State Fair draws one million visitors through the gates each October, marking what many consider to be the unofficial beginning of the fall season. Eleven days of high-flying rides, deep -fried foods, live music, stunt shows and other entertainment (including nightly fireworks) has been a can't-miss event for generations of families—the 2023 version of the N.C. State Fair marks the 155th year of the event!

SHANIA TWAIN

October 18th - PNC Arena

Five-time GRAMMY® Award-winning legend and the best-selling female artist in country music history Shania Twain announced the second leg of her 2023 Queen of Me Tour. Due to phenomenal demand following the wildly successful announcement of the first leg, Shania is adding 19 new fall dates to her highly anticipated tour, in support of Shania’s forthcoming album Queen of Me, out February 3, 2023.

The Queen of Me Tour marks one of Shania Twain’s biggest tours to date with over 70 dates taking place across North America and Europe next year. This is also her first tour in nearly five years, following a highly suc-

CHELSEA HANDLER

Sat, Oct 7, 2023

Chelsea Handler is a comedian, television host, New York Times best-selling author, and advocate whose humor and candor have established her as one of the most celebrated voices in entertainment and pop culture.

www.dpacnc.com

MOONLIGHT IN THE GARDEN

Thursday–Saturday, November 16–18

A Magical Lighting Exhibition with Our Friends from Southern Lights of Raleigh and the North Carolina Agricultural Foundation, Inc. This isn't your typical lighting event. Moonlight in the Garden is meticulously designed to showcase our internationally acclaimed garden and all its splendor. You think our collection is spectacular by day? Wait until you see it under the cover of darkness artfully lit on a crisp November evening. It's a magical experience you don't want to miss.

Be inspired. Be delighted. Be in awe of the beauty of a nighttime garden.

4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh, NC 27606

THE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 2023 - TRAVELING THE WORLD IN RALEIGH

Fri, Nov 3, 8:30 AM – Sun, Nov 5, 4:00 PM

Celebrate Holidays around the World! Holiday Market, Delicious Food & Desserts, Dynamic & Energetic Performances that will rock the stage! N.C. State Fairgrounds - Expo Building

JERRY SEINFELD

Sat, Nov 18, 2023

America’s Favorite Comedian Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. Jerr y Seinfeld’s comedy career took off after his first appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in 1981. Eight years later, he teamed up with fellow comedian Larry David to create what was to become the most successful comedy series in the history of television: “Seinfeld.”

www.dpacnc.com

MEAN GIRLS

Fri, Nov 24 — Sun, Nov 26, 2023

MEAN GIRLS is the hilarious hit musical from an award-winning creative team, including book writer TINA FEY (“30 Rock”), composer JEFF RICHMOND (“Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), lyricist NELL BENJAMIN (Legally Blonde) and original director and choreographer CASEY NICHOLAW (The Book of Mormon).

www.dpacnc.com

COOKING APPS

FOR COOKING JUNKIES

If you love to cook. you know that discovering your next favorite recipe can be the highlight of your week. There are plenty of smartphone apps that make it easy to find an amazing recipe. no matterwhat your taste is. With these five great apps, you can explore recipes on a whole new level and make the most of your meals. Here are five really great ones to get you cooking!

FOOD NETWORK KITCHEN:

Developed by the famous Food Network, this app is a gem for cooking enthusiasts looking for professional guidance. It offers live and on-demand cooking classes hosted by celebrity chefs, as well as a vast library of recipes, video tutorials, and helpful tips. Users can also access personalized meal plans and save their favorite recipes for later.

BIGOVEN: BigOven is an excellent app for home cooks looking to organize their cooking routines. It offers over 350,000 recipes, including options for meal planning, grocery shopping, and minimizing food waste. Users can create shopping lists, scale recipe quantities, and even use the app's "Use Up Leftovers" feature to find creative ways to utilize ingredients from their pantry.

ALLRECIPES DINNER SPINNER:

This app is perfect for those who love to experiment with recipes and discover new flavors. Allrecipes Dinner Spinner allows users to find recipes based on specific ingredients, dietary preferences, and meal types. Additionally, it offers a "Dinner Spinner" feature that randomly suggests recipes for users feeling indecisive. Users can also save their favorite recipes and share them with others via social media.

YUMMLY:

Yummly is a comprehensive cooking app that provides a vast collection of recipes from various cuisines. This app stands out with its advanced search and filtering options, allowing users to find recipes based on dietary restrictions, allergies, and even ingredients they already have at home. Yummly also offers personalized recommendations and meal planning features.

TASTY:

This app is perfect for food enthusiasts looking to try new recipes. Tasty offers a wide range of easy-to-follow video recipes with step-by-step instructions. Users can discover delicious dishes, save them for later, create personalized recipe collections, and even receive personalized recommendations based on their culinary preferences.

ON EXHIBIT:

DUTCH ART IN A GLOBAL AGE

September 16, 2023–January 7, 2024 East Building, Level B, Meymandi Exhibition Gallery Ticket purchase required.

Dutch Art in a Global Age presents highlights from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, with an innovative focus. Arranged thematically, the exhibition explores the intersections among Dutch art, commercial networks, and colonial expansion in the seventeenth century. The show concludes with beautiful objects in silver and ceramic and depictions of daily life, demonstrating the coexistence of the familiar and the foreign—a world we still inhabit.

The presentation features paintings by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, Gerrit Dou, Jacob van Ruisdael, Rachel Ruysch, and other celebrated artists. These artworks are complemented by five paintings from the NCMA’s Dutch collection, as well as decorative arts and important prints from the MFA Boston’s world-renowned collection.

This exhibition also celebrates the remarkable 2017 gift of Dutch art from Rose-Marie and Eijk van Otterloo, which elevated the Dutch holdings of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, to among the finest in the world.

The crisp fall air is finally here, so it's time to trade in your summery scents for something warmer and cozier. Nothing transforms a space quite like a seasonal fragrance, and with autumn officially underway, your home is due for an olfactory makeover. You want fragrances that conjure up images of colorful foliage, pumpkin patches, and cozy nights by the fire. Fortunately, you don't have to drop major dough or do a total redecoration to give your place an autumnal ambiance. With a few strategically placed essential oil diffusers or candles in autumn-inspired scents, you'll have your home smelling like fall in no time. Here are five home fragrances perfect for the new season.

Cinnamon Scented Candles for Cozy Fall Vibes

Nothing says cozy fall days like the warm, spicy scent of cinnamon.

Light some cinnamon-scented candles for an instant autumn vibe in your home. The sweet, distinctive aroma fills the space with memories of baked goods fresh from the oven and evenings curled up by the fire.

Look for candles infused with essential cinnamon bark oil or fragrances like Cinnamon Bun, Spiced Cider or Harvest Spice. As the candle burns, the fragrance will waft through your rooms, reminiscent of fall treats like apple pie, snickerdoodle cookies or pumpkin bread.

Pumpkin Spice Mists for Festive

Fall Feels

Nothing says fall quite like the aroma of pumpkin spice. For an easy way to make your home smell like fall, try an essential oil diffuser with pumpkin spice mist.

Fill your diffuser with water and add 5-10 drops of pumpkin spice essential oil or fragrance oil. Place the diffuser in an entryway or open-concept living space for maximum effect. The warm, spicy scent will fill your home with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg and clove.

For a homemade pumpkin spice mist, combine 1 cup water, 1/4 cup witch hazel or vodka, 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract in a spray bottle. Shake to combine and mist in the air and on surfaces in your home. The pumpkin puree helps give it an authentic pumpkin scent that will last for days.

Yankee Candle also makes a pumpkin spice-scented wax melt that is perfect for fall. Melt one cube in your wax warmer and the delicious fragrance will spread throughout your home. They also have pumpkin spicescented jar candles, tumblers and reed diffusers for lots of festive fall options.

Apple Cider

Scented Wax Melts for Warm Autumn

Ambiance

Nothing says cozy fall like the smell of apple cider simmering on the stove. Capture that aroma in your home with apple cider scented wax melts. Simply place a wax melt in your wax warmer and within minutes your place will be filled with the sweet, spicy fragrance of fresh-pressed apples and warm spices.

Light a few of these wax melts in your living room, family room or kitchen and instantly conjure up feelings of autumn. The blend of apples, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove essential oils are natural mood boosters that relieve stress and promote feelings of warmth and comfort.

VANILLA, NUTMEG, AND CLOVE OIL BLENDS FOR

HOLIDAY HYGGE

Vanilla, nutmeg, and clove are classic fall scents that evoke warmth, coziness and memories of the holidays. Blending essential oils of these fragrances is an easy way to create an inviting aroma in your home.

Vanilla

Vanilla essential oil has a sweet, comforting scent reminiscent of baking holiday treats. Add a few drops to an oil diffuser to fill your home with the fragrance of sugar cookies and spice.

Nutmeg

Warm, spicy nutmeg essential oil conjures up feelings of mulled wine, pumpkin pie and snuggling by the fire. Combine with cinnamon or clove oil in a diffuser for an autumnal fragrance blend. Grind whole nutmegs and scatter in small bowls around the house for a natural potpourri. The aroma intensifies when the bowls are warmed.

Clove

Pungent, peppery clove essential oil adds an aromatic kick to fall fragrance blends. Use sparingly, as its strong fragrance can overpower. A single drop or two of clove oil combined with vanilla and nutmeg in a diffuser creates a balanced, inviting holiday blend. Cloves stuck in oranges, clementines or lemons make a traditional decorative pomander to scent your home.

SIX WAYS WAKING UP EARLY MAKES YOUR LIFE BETTER

There's a popular but mistaken idea floating around in our cultural consciousness: the notion that you're either a morning person or you're not. We envy the people who have the seemingly effortless ability to get up at 5 a.m. and spend a couple of hours being productive before they even leave for work, while we resign ourselves to wearing out the snooze button until it's impossible to ignore our looming responsibilities any longer. But we're not as helpless to our internal clocks as we sometimes think. Anyone can build the habit of being a morning person, but if you're not already in the habit of getting up early, it might take a good reason to motivate you to get out of bed. Here are six ways being up before the sun will improve your life.

HAVING A JUMP START ON THE DAY FEELS GREAT

Yes, the few seconds it takes to drag your sleepy, fuzzy-minded self out from under the warm blankets are a drag. But after a few minutes, once you're up, dressed, and maybe making a cup of coffee or tea, you'll be so glad you made the effort. You now have access to a whole hour, maybe two, that you would usually sleep away. What will you do with that time? As you become a morning person, you'll start to feel like the early hours are a secret sanctuary that late sleepers are missing out on.

BEING UP EARLY MOTIVATES YOU TO GET MORE DONE

So you've made the effort to get out of bed, and you now have a precious hour or two at your disposal. Combine this with the pressure of knowing you have to go to work and take care of other duties later in the day, and you'll feel extra appreciative of your morning time and want to squeeze all the enjoyment and productivity out of it that you can. Maybe that means you meditate, go for a run, or prepare dinner ahead of time. Whatever you want to get done, knowing your time is valuable and limited is a great incentive to accomplish it.

YOU HAVE TIME TO WORK ON YOUR OWN PROJECTS

Do you ever feel like your time belongs more to your boss, spouse, kids, and friends than it does to you? Getting up early is an excellent antidote to that feeling. By carving out an hour or two before your responsibilities set in, you claim a piece of the day for yourself to work on the things that you love. What do you wish you had more time for -exercise, learning a new language, writing a novel, reading more books? That's what your morning time is for. Investing time in yourself is a key component of happiness.

BECOME MORE DISCIPLINED

Getting up early is certainly doable and worthwhile, but that doesn't mean it's easy. Sometimes it feels like a herculean effort to get out of bed, while it's all too easy to hit the snooze button and waste away the early hours without even waking up or thinking about it. When you put in the effort to get up, day after day, even when you don't want to, you're strengthening your ability to ignore fleeting, momentary desires in favor of working on your long-term goals. This ability is a crucial component of success in any area of your life. As your early-rising willpower increases, you might find

that you're making better choices or being more productive in other spheres too.

YOU FEEL MORE COLLECTED AND FOCUSED THE REST OF THE TIME

Your morning sets the tone for the rest of the day. Think about it: how do you feel when you've slept late, don't have time to shower, can't find a pair of matching socks, and have to skip breakfast to get to work on time? The frazzled, scattered feeling of the morning probably carries over into the afternoon. When you've had a calm, productive morning, the opposite is true: you'll feel more relaxed and capable during the rest of the day. Everything you do feels more satisfying when it happens after you've already had a great morning.

BREAKFAST MIGHT BECOME YOUR FAVORITE MEAL OF THE DAY

If you like to eat breakfast, rising early lets you get a jump start on your nutrition for the day. Scarfing down cereal or a granola bar because you don't have time to cook is now a thing of the past. Do you love omelets, but rarely have time to make them? Want to try your hand at blending up a green smoothie? Getting up early gives you the opportunity to have a delicious, healthy breakfast every day. What a great reason to get out of bed!

Waking up early gives you more control over your time and your life. You'll have time to work on goals you've always wanted to achieve, feel more satisfied with your accomplishments throughout the day, and boost your level of motivation. The only thing standing between you and a great morning is your snooze button, and now that you have six good reasons to get up, the snooze button is no match for your willpower.

Written By Lou Scott

I first met Carrie when I was in the eighth grade and she was in the 7th — 12 and 13 year olds — ages that would define the direction in which the rest of our lives were headed.

This was the in between space, the space between childhood and adolescence, when your parents no longer watch over you in the same way they did when you were younger.

And though you value your increased freedom, you don’t always know what to do with it. The friends you choose, the activities you pursue aren’t always good for you.

I learned that lesson in the town our family had just moved from. For, after suffering a head injury, which affected my speech, my girlfriends no longer invited me to sit with them at the “popular girls table.” It was a heart wrenching experience. I felt humiliated, and from that time forward, I sat near the door and walked home after school by myself.

On the first day of attending my new school, in my new town, I met Carrie. The first thing she did was ask if I would like to walk to school with her. Once there, Carrie pointed out the cafeteria, auditorium, and the school’s office, where I was introduced to my new teacher.

Both Carrie and I liked school and neither one of us wanted to rush headlong into the future; we were satisfied with taking our time, enjoying the present.

We “showed up” for each other: met where and when we said we would, whether on our long walk up the steep hill to our impressive school at the top, or on our way back down again at the end of the school day.

At the bottom of the hill, Carrie would turn the corner and walk down the street to a row of sturdy working class homes, and I would continue up the steep hill to the large craftsman house on the corner.

Carrie and I would meet at my house on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, and from there, we would walk up another hill to the firehall, which had just begun the habit of opening its second floor basketball court to the 12 and 13 year old boys who lived nearby and went to the small Catholic school across the street.

Carrie brought along her record player and Fats Domino and Little Richard records. The firehall was indeed turning into a small but local gathering place for children our age.

Carrie and I as well as five or six of the boys began to hang around together. I will never forget when Elvis Presley was to make his debut on the Ed Sullivan show, we met at Bobby’s house (he had a television set), and sat on the floor. Carrie and I made sure we were closest to the set. We fell in love with Elvis.

On the days the firehall wasn’t open, everyone hung out at my house. Carrie was convinced the boys had a crush on my lively and very pretty mother.

Though Mother was indeed very pretty, she was also a great hostess. She always had something fun to do. For example, when she initiated a pin the tail on the donkey game everyone groaned, but she said we would probably enjoy it more than small children would. She was right. Everyone was soon laughing and cheering each other on.

Sometimes Donnie, one of the boys, and I would climb a tall tree in my side yard, just to see who could climb the highest or the fastest. (I still have a hard time believing I actually did it.)

We enjoyed ourselves —even the time, to my great distress, I had to grab onto a bush to keep from falling down a hill. It seemed that no matter what we did, we always had a good time.

And I will be forever grateful that I met my best friend Carrie, during my in between space, the space between my childhood and adolescence.