Holly Where❓ | Special Real Estate Issue | Is It Time To Think Spring? | Lot's Going On At The Botanical Gardens📍

Many times your email provider will cut the newsletter articles off. If this happens you cannot read the entire newsletter. Use the button below to read all the articles and this newsletter online.

👇👇👇

🤣-Chuckle - Laughter is good for the soul.

☁️-Weather - Whether we like it or not!

🧑‍💼-On this day in history!

🛣️-Wake County, history and weekend get-a-ways.

📰-News - Stay in the know with local news.

🎙️-Events - #1 largest list of area events.

🆕Grocery and drug store sale ads🆕

🆕Big sales on must have items!🆕

🌶️Watch for “HOT DEALS”🌶️

🏃‍♀️‍➡️Health - Important information on health and wellness

🌶️New Boujee Upscale Resale! Hot Deals!🌶️

🧑‍💼Featured Business - Let’s support our local small businesses.

➡️New Community Survey◀️

NEW!

♦️Wednesday - Events Update Edition♦️

♦️Thursday - Real Estate Edition♦️

♦️Friday - Big Savings In Wake!♦️

📍 Today’s North Carolina Trivia📍

Did you know that North Carolina is home to the world’s first controlled, powered airplane flight? On December 17, 1903, the Wright brothers made history at Kill Devil Hills, near Kitty Hawk, when they successfully flew their Wright Flyer for 12 seconds over a distance of 120 feet. This milestone in aviation forever changed the way people travel! ✈️

1951 – The 22nd Amendment is ratified
The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, limiting the President to two terms in office. This was largely in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s four-term presidency.

So Where is “Holly & Holly Hill?”

I often hear people talk about Holly Hill, Holly Mounty, and many things Holly. Well, this column is all about “Holly.”

While there isn't a town named "Holly Hill" in North Carolina, several notable sites and attractions across the state bear the "Holly" name. Here's an overview of these destinations and what they offer:

Holly Hill in Rutherfordton

Located in Rutherfordton, Holly Hill is a historic private residence dating back to the 1830s. This fine example of Greek Revival architecture is part of the town's rich heritage. While it's not open for public tours, visitors can appreciate its exterior beauty and the surrounding historic district.

Holly Hill Mall and Business Center

Situated in Burlington, the Holly Hill Mall and Business Center is an enclosed shopping destination that opened in 1969. It features a variety of retail stores, dining options, and services, making it a convenient spot for shopping and leisure.

Holly Springs

For those interested in exploring areas with "Holly" in their names, Holly Springs offers a range of attractions:

• Bass Lake Park: This 50-acre lake is surrounded by walking trails, and a nature center, and offers fishing opportunities. It's a serene spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Holly Springs Cultural Center: A hub for arts and events, this center hosts theater performances, art exhibitions, and community gatherings.

• Carolina Brewing Company: One of the oldest breweries in the state, offering tours and tastings for craft beer enthusiasts.

Mount Holly

Another town worth mentioning is Mount Holly, which boasts:

• Mount Holly Days Christmas Celebration: An annual festive event featuring carriage rides, local vendors, and holiday treats, bringing the community together in celebration.

• Local Parks and Greenways: Offering trails and recreational spaces for hiking, biking, and picnicking, perfect for families and nature lovers.

While North Carolina may not have a town named "Holly Hill," these destinations provide a variety of historical sites, cultural centers, and recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

The Rest of the Story!

Many places in North Carolina use the word "Holly" in their names due to a combination of natural, historical, and cultural influences.

Native Holly Trees in North Carolina

• The American holly (Ilex opaca) is a native evergreen tree that grows abundantly in North Carolina. Early settlers and indigenous people often named places after dominant natural features.

• Since holly trees are hardy, beautiful, and evergreen, they became a recognizable symbol of many regions.

Early Colonial and British Influence

• Many towns in North Carolina were named by European settlers, and holly trees were also significant in British and European folklore.

• English settlers brought traditions that associated holly with protection, good fortune, and holiday celebrations, leading to its widespread use in place names.

Holly as a Symbol of Strength and Protection

• Holly trees were often believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck, making them popular for naming towns, parks, and landmarks.

• In early American settlements, holly trees were seen as a sign of resilience and prosperity, which made them ideal for place names.

More Editor’s Choice in “North Carolina Reading.”🛣️

• ^{_{Birds of the Carolinas Field Guide}}🦅

• ^{_{History Lover's Guide to North Carolina}}📗

• ^{_{North Carolina Bucket List Guide}}🪣

• ^{_{Grow Great Vegetables in North Carolina}}🍅

• ^{_{Hiking North Carolina}}🥾

• ^{_{North Carolina Waterfalls}}💦

Contingencies in North Carolina

What You Need to Know

If you're planning to buy a home in North Carolina and indicate on your offer that you need to sell your current home first, you might assume this creates a contingency that protects you. However, in North Carolina, this is simply information for the seller—it does not provide an automatic safety net. Unlike some states where home sale contingencies allow buyers to back out without financial risk, North Carolina’s real estate contracts do not work this way. If your home doesn’t sell and you can’t proceed with the purchase, you would still forfeit your due diligence fee, even if the seller was aware of your situation.

The good news is that you do have options! One approach is to sell your home first and use temporary housing, such as a short-term rental or storage solutions like PODS, while you search for your next home. Another option is to negotiate a seller possession after closing, also known as a leaseback. This allows you to stay in your home for an agreed-upon period after closing, giving you extra time to secure your next property without the added pressure of moving immediately. By planning ahead, you can navigate the North Carolina market with confidence while minimizing financial risk.

These are common questions and important factors to consider before selling your home, especially if you need to sell before purchasing your next one. The home buying and selling process can feel overwhelming, and oftentimes, you don’t know what you don’t know—that’s completely normal! That’s why I’m here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you make informed decisions with confidence.

Reach out if you have questions and follow me on Instagram @MarieLogueRealEstate

Is it Too Soon to Think Spring?

As winter’s chill begins to wane, many North Carolinians are wondering: Is it too soon to think spring? While the weather can be unpredictable in the Tar Heel State—temperatures can vary dramatically from coast to mountains—there are signs that spring is on the horizon.

In the Piedmont and coastal areas, early blooms are already starting to make their appearance. Daffodils, crocuses, and camellias are pushing through the cold earth, reminding us that warmer days are ahead. Even though it may still be a bit too early for most of the region’s typical spring planting, gardeners are preparing by getting their tools in order, cleaning up winter debris, and planning for the growing season ahead.

In the mountains, the wait for spring might feel longer, but even there, signs of life begin to emerge with the occasional stretch of warmer weather. It's a great time to start planning for trips to local botanical gardens or getting a head start on indoor plantings.

For now, it's not too soon to start thinking about spring in North Carolina. Whether you’re planning your garden, dreaming of outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the signs of life returning, it’s an exciting time to look ahead to the season of renewal.

It’s Time to Visit Local Botanical Gardens

Raleigh, North Carolina, is home to several esteemed botanical gardens, each offering unique experiences for nature enthusiasts. Here’s a look at these gardens, their upcoming events, and special features:

Juniper Level Botanic Garden

Founded by renowned horticulturist Tony Avent, Juniper Level Botanic Garden spans 28 acres and features an impressive collection of over 27,000 plant taxa. Known for its rare and exotic plants, many of which are available for purchase at the adjacent Plant Delights Nursery, this garden is a true botanical treasure.

Open Garden and Nursery Days
Juniper Level Botanic Garden opens its doors to the public during eight weekends each year for Open Garden and Nursery Days. These events offer free admission, allowing visitors to explore the extensive plant collections and purchase unique plants. The garden is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine, on the designated weekends.

Upcoming Events
Although specific dates for 2025 have not yet been announced, Juniper Level traditionally hosts the following events:

• March Showcase Garden Tour: A guided tour highlighting the best plants of the season.

• Trillium, the Gateway Perennial: An educational session focusing on Trillium species.

• Sex in the Garden – Propagation Workshop: A hands-on workshop about plant propagation techniques.

• Spring Ephemeral Garden Walk: A stroll emphasizing early spring bloomers.

For the latest information on upcoming events, be sure to check the garden’s official events page.

JC Raulston Arboretum

Operated by North Carolina State University, the JC Raulston Arboretum is a nationally recognized garden with one of the largest collections of landscape plants suited for the Southeast. The arboretum is open daily with free admission, offering visitors the opportunity to explore its themed gardens and extensive plant collections.

Moonlight in the Garden
One of the arboretum’s signature events is Moonlight in the Garden, a captivating lighting exhibition held annually in November. The event features illuminated gardens, live music, food trucks, and fire pits, creating a magical atmosphere. While the 2025 dates are still to be confirmed, this enchanting event typically spans several evenings.

Raleigh Rose Garden

Nestled behind the Raleigh Little Theatre, the Raleigh Rose Garden is a historic garden featuring 60 rose beds with various rose varieties, alongside perennials and trees. Open daily from dawn to dusk with free admission, it’s a peaceful spot for relaxation and photography. The garden also serves as a beautiful venue for weddings and special events.

For more details, visit the Raleigh Little Theatre website.

North Carolina Botanical Garden

Located in nearby Chapel Hill and part of the University of North Carolina, the North Carolina Botanical Garden is dedicated to conserving native plants. Beginning on January 5, 2025, the garden will expand its hours to include Sunday mornings, operating from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. The garden offers a variety of programs and exhibits, including the Bird-Friendly Landscapes series, which explores the relationship between native plants and bird populations.

Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Raleigh’s botanical gardens offer an abundance of natural beauty and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Here's a chart summarizing the upcoming events at Juniper Level Botanic Garden and JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, NC, including the event names, locations, dates, and costs.

The Little Pie House

A Sweet Hidden Gem in Rolesville, NC

Tucked away in Rolesville, North Carolina, The Little Pie House is a cozy, home-based bakery known for its delicious, handcrafted pies and custom cakes. Owned and operated by Christine Carey, this charming bakery has become a go-to spot for locals craving fresh, homemade treats.

The Little Pie House offers a rotating menu of seasonal and classic pies, ensuring there’s always something new to enjoy. From rich, buttery crusts to flavorful fillings, each pie is made with locally sourced ingredients, giving every bite a true homemade taste.

Beyond pies, Christine creates beautifully decorated custom cakes and cupcakes, perfect for birthdays, weddings, and special events. Orders are typically available within 48 hours, offering both convenience and quality.

As a home-based bakery, The Little Pie House operates by appointment only. To place an order or inquire about offerings:

• Instagram: @the_little_piehouse

• Facebook: The Little Pie House

Specific address details are provided upon order confirmation.

Operating Hours

Orders are typically available for pickup 48 hours after placement. Pickup times are:

• Tuesday – Friday: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

• Saturday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

• 502 Kenton MI CT, Rolesville, NC

Please note that The Little Pie House is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

• Fresh, Homemade Goodness: Each dessert is crafted with care, using locally sourced ingredients to ensure the highest quality and taste.

• Custom Creations: From classic pies to themed cakes, Christine works closely with clients to bring their dessert visions to life.

• Community Focused: Supporting local farmers and businesses, The Little Pie House embodies the spirit of community in every bake.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, The Little Pie House offers a delightful and personalized bakery experience in Rolesville.

🌶️Friday Hot Deals in Wake County🌶️

Check out our great deals online!

If your restaurant is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

If your event is not on the list and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Facebook for additional events and news!

If your event is not on our Facebook page and you would like to be added, contact us at [email protected] 

We love helping you save time and money! Check out today’s local "Save You Time & Money" section from your phone to find the best deals before you head out to the store!

Hero or section banners

• Local Business Spotlights

• Event Spotlights

• Expert Tips

• Business Directory

• Website Banners

• And more!

  👇👇👇

  👉 Get Information 👈