I cannot believe it is already the last weekend of August and yet, I also find myself a bit relieved. For the past few years, I always find myself overextending myself a bit during times when I think I will have slower times. Summer was a whirlwind of work trips for I’m Fixin’ To, including my first contracted article for a travel website!

For September, I have been intentional about blocking off creative time and keeping a weekend open with no plans. I also really appreciate having my Sunday afternoons open to prepare for the week ahead and this summer absolutely reminded me of that.

All of that to say, I’ll be back on track with the September Edit on Tuesday and Friday Five next week, and then into some programming that has been in my drafts for a while.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and I’ll see you back here on Tuesday!

xx, Meghan

The Friday Five: Last One for August 2026

1. Falling for Peachtree Bluff by Kristy Woodson Harvey

I first got into Kristy’s writing from her Peachtree Bluff series and I was thrilled when she announced another book in this series. I finished an advanced copy earlier this week and I just loved it. I just love the Murphy women and the location is idyllic — definitely gives Beaufort, NC vibes in honor of Kristy’s love of her town. It releases on September 15. Pre-order your copy here OR get a ticket and join me on Friday, September 11 at Carolina Inn for cocktails with Kristy.

2. Jeter Mountain Farm in Hendersonville

I spent last weekend in Hendersonville with my hairstylist-turned-friend, Katy, and we went apple picking at Jeter Mountain Farm. I cannot stop raving about this amazing orchard to anyone who will listen. While I have a bigger article coming to I’m Fixin’ To next month, given how time sensitive apple season is, I wanted to go ahead and share this so you could book your reservation to visit them if you are planning a trip to the area. Try their blackberry cider and bring home some apple cider donuts. You won’t regret it!

3. One Pot Lemon Butter Ricotta and Zucchini Pasta

Photo via Half-Baked Harvest

This summer, David and I planted seeds for zucchini and we have been loving finding recipes to use it. This one pot lemon butter ricotta and zucchini has been our favorite and one that has been on repeat a lot recently!

4. Rothy’s The Ivy Sneaker

When I got my Rothy’s newsletter this week and saw these sneakers, they immediately went on my wishlist! I love the neutral color of the ones pictured and Rothy’s sneakers have been a travel favorite of mine for years since they are washable.

5. Thinking about Dolly Parton

I was rocked on Tuesday when it was announced that Dolly Parton had passed and the outpouring of love for her has been overwhelming for a woman the majority of us never met. I shared some feelings over on Instagram and have been sitting with some reminders of why she was such an inspiration for me. The picture here is from when I planned a trip to Nashville a few years ago solely to stay at The Graduate Hotel in Nashville because of all the Dolly tributes throughout the property. It came about because David had said if the Bills played the Titans in a playoff game, we would go to Nashville for it — and while that did not happen, I could not get a trip to Nashville off my mind after that.

This Week on I’m Fixin’ To

From the Archives

Best Hair Products for Styling Bangs

Our Chief Tail Wagger went to work with me on Tuesday!

These past few weeks have been a doozy, and to be honest, I have been missing this space in particular. There are several things that are in the works for both imfixintoblog.com and this space soon, and I am budgeting time next week to be able to give it the focus and attention that the work needs.

Here is a quick mixed bag as we head into the weekend.

xx, Meghan

The Friday Five: a Mixed Bag

1. Dissection of a Murder by Jo Murray

I read this book so quickly and simply could not put it down. It was such a great thriller and definitely had more twists and turns than I expected. I was definitely in a bit of a reading rut and this book got me out of it.

2. Hotel Lobby Candle Annual Sale

If you have been wanting to try Hotel Lobby Candles, now is a great time! This is the only sale HLC runs a year. With fall just around the corner, I recommend trying Aspen, Napa, or New York!

3. Hanni The Shower Edit Set

I received this Hanni Rich Rinse and Splash Salve to test and I absolutely cannot stop raving about the combo of these products. The splash salve is so nice for dry skin, especially in the summer when putting lotion on after a shower can feel sticky in the humidity. This bundle is a great price if you are interested in trying this brand.

4. OLEHENRIKSEN Glow2OH 7% Aha Exfoliating Toner

This toner is a game changer for my skin and is currently on a great sale. I use it at night and add this over top of it for extra moisturizer.

5. Duplin Winery in Rose Hill

I had such a wonderful opportunity to have a behind-the-scenes tour of Duplin Winery, which crosses off another county on my 100 county tour. I will be sharing much more about this trip in the coming weeks. I have always driven by this on 40 on the way to Wilmington and never stopped there.

This Week on I’m Fixin’ To

What’s New Just ICYMI

• Best Restaurants in Eastern NC: 14 Destination Spots to Try (2026 Guide)

• How to Renovate a Guest Bathroom on a Budget: 5 Practical Tips (Updated for 2026)

• My Summer Beauty Routine for 2026

• What I’ve Read So Far in 2026 v.2

• Local Love: 25+ Best Places to Photograph in North Carolina (Updated for 2026)

Our Chief Tail Wagger celebrated her 3rd birthday this week.

Back in March, I shared what I’d read so far in 2026, and since today is a reading holiday made just for us book worms, it felt like the perfect excuse for Part Two. I am still very much in my “read for funsies, not for a goal” era, and it has been the best decision I made.

So here is everything I have read since that last post — the ones worth adding to your TBR immediately, and any surprises along the way. (For the record: Murder in Highbury is still sitting on pause. I will get back to it eventually.)

I would love to know — what have you read so far this year? Drop a favorite (or two) in the comments!

xx, Meghan

See my favorite books from 2025 here.

Everything I’ve Read So Far in 2026 Since March

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby van Pelt

Synopsis

After Tova Sullivan’s husband died, she began working the night shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium, mopping floors and tidying up. Keeping busy has always helped her cope, which she’s been doing since her eighteen-year-old son, Erik, mysteriously vanished on a boat in Puget Sound over thirty years ago.

Tova becomes acquainted with curmudgeonly Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus living at the aquarium. Marcellus knows more than anyone can imagine but wouldn’t dream of lifting one of his eight arms for his human captors—until he forms a remarkable friendship with Tova.

Ever the detective, Marcellus deduces what happened the night Tova’s son disappeared. And now Marcellus must use every trick his old invertebrate body can muster to unearth the truth for her before it’s too late.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• While it started a bit slow for me, I ended up not being able to put it down for the last half. It is such a great story of friendship, family, while being quirky, charming, and a tad bit of a mystery at times. It is such an endearing story. Highly recommend added it to your TBR.

• This ended up being a re-read for me for my work book club. I first read it in March 2023.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Secret Lives of Murderers Wives by Elizabeth Arnott

Synopsis

Beverley, Elsie, and Margot are not your average housewives. They are all wives of convicted killers. During the sun-drenched summer of 1966, the three women form an unlikely friendship after the discoveries of their husbands’ brutal crimes. With their exes—some of California’s most infamous murderers—dead or behind bars, they are attempting to forge a new future for themselves.

Headstrong Beverley tries compulsively to maintain control of everything around her, all while raising two children. Bookish Elsie fights to make a name for herself in the newsroom, working among men who sneer at her career goals. Glamorous Margot prefers partying to homemaking and devotes all her energy to upholding the appearance that everything is fine—anything to quell the shame from her husband’s deceit.

They know people look at them and think only one thing: How could they not have known what their husbands were doing? How much are they to blame? And yet when a string of local killings hits the news, the three women—underestimated, overlooked, shrewd—decide to get to work. After all, who better to catch a killer than those who have shared their lives and homes with one?

At once a riveting portrayal of shattered trust and a story of gripping suspense, The Secret Lives of Murderers' Wives is a testament to the intricacies of women’s lives and how the deep bonds of female friendship can empower, uplift, and lead us to endure.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• I had high hopes for this book to help me out of a reading slump, which was not fair. This book started out pretty slow and then the end flies by. It *is* a fun read and the ending is sort of satisfying. That said, I do wish that Margot and Elsie's characters were developed as much as Beverly, especially Elsie.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

Synopsis

My name was Natalie Heller Mills, and I was perfect at being alive.

Natalie lives a traditional lifestyle. Her charming farmhouse is rustic, her husband a handsome cowboy, her six children each more delightful than the last. So what if there are nannies and producers behind the scenes, her kitchen hiding industrial-grade fridges and ovens, her husband the heir to a political dynasty? What Natalie’s followers—all 8 million of them—don’t know won’t hurt them. And The Angry Women? The privileged, Ivy League, coastal elite haters who call her an antifeminist iconoclast? They’re sick with jealousy. Because Natalie isn’t simply living the good life, she’s living the ideal—and just so happens to be building an empire from it.

Until one morning she wakes up in a life that isn’t hers. Her home, her husband, her children—they’re all familiar, but something’s off. Her kitchen is warmed by a sputtering fire rather than electricity, her children are dirty and strange, and her soft-handed husband is suddenly a competent farmer. Just yesterday Natalie was curating photos of homemade jam for her Instagram, and now she’s expected to haul firewood and handwash clothes until her fingers bleed. Has she become the unwitting star of a ruthless reality show? Could it really be time travel? Is she being tested by God? By Satan? When Natalie suffers a brutal injury in the woods, she realizes two things: This is not her beautiful life, and she must escape by any means possible.

A gripping, electrifying novel that is as darkly funny as it is frightening, Yesteryear is a gimlet-eyed look at tradition, fame, faith, and the grand performance of womanhood.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• I have the biggest book hangover after reading this. The character is so incredibly unlikable, and I cannot get over the ending. It is a wild ride. I know it’s getting a lot of attention -- rightfully so. It’s a page turner.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Murder at the Hotel Orient by Alessandra Ranelli

Synopsis

In modern Vienna, American ex-pat Sterling Lockwood is the loyal Concierge at the infamous Hotel Orient. Cameras are forbidden, aliases are required, and every guest has something to hide. For those seeking illicit liaisons, Sterling is the perfect concierge. Sultry and poised, she’s the ultimate keeper of secrets, including her own.

But when dawn breaks and two guests are found dead in their suite, Sterling must break the Orient’s sacred code of discretion, turning detective to find a killer and clear her own name. Alongside Fernando, her quick-witted friend and bellhop, she will risk everything to solve this double murder haunted by the past, in a city with a fetish for nostalgia.

Don't be shy darling, ring the bell...

My Thoughts & Ratings

• This was such a fun read — a little spicy, thriller, and good ending rolled into one!

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Summer’s Never Over by Darby Bozeman

Synopsis

Five years ago, Greer left her family’s summer camp in the mountains of Georgia and vowed she’d never return. An idyllic season had turned into a nightmare after a mysterious Phantom began stalking the camp—and ended with Greer’s friend and fellow counselor dead. Losing Steph shattered everything, and Greer’s been fleeing from the grief ever since.

But then Greer’s mother dies, and Greer finds herself back at Dread’s Cove, surrounded by the people she was closest to that intense summer. Two ex-boyfriends—one a childhood sweetheart, the other the guy she's never gotten over—and old friends. Including Margo, Steph's best friend.

Greer and Margo didn’t leave things on the best of terms. But now, Margo needs her. Margo never believed that Steph’s death in that horrific fire was an accident—and she’s on the trail of an explosive secret Steph took to her grave.

Greer has to make a choice: keep the Cove’s secrets and her own, or finally face the truth about that summer.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• I read this book in about 24 hours -- it was one of those page-turning thrillers that I couldn't put down. It was twisty, and I didn't fully see the ending coming and it also felt a tad rushed to me. That said, it was a great debut novel and perfect if you are in a reading rut like I have been.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino

Synopsis

Eighteen months and 11 lost bidding wars into house-hunting in the overheated Washington, DC suburbs, 37-year-old publicist Margo Miyake gets a tip about the perfect house, in the perfect neighborhood, slated to come up for sale in one month. Desperate to escape the cramped apartment she shares with her husband Ian — and in turn, get their marriage, plan to have a baby, and whole life back on track — Margo becomes obsessed with buying the house before it’s publicly listed and the masses descend (with unbeatable, all-cash offers in hand).

A little stalking? Harmless. A bit of trespassing? Necessary. As Margo infiltrates the homeowners’ lives, her tactics grow increasingly unhinged—but just when she thinks she’s won them over, she hits a snag in her plan. Undeterred, Margo will prove again and again that there’s no boundary she won’t cross to seize the dream life she’s been chasing. The most unsettling part? You’ll root for her, even as you gasp in disbelief.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• I couldn't put this book down, though maybe not for the normal reasons I have when reading a book. There were parts where I had second-hand embarrassment for Margo, and while I was rooting for her, I also kept wanting her to get back on her therapist's calendar. The ending... I couldn't put it down. COULD NOT put down. Definitely a "what did I just read" book.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taffy of Torpedo Junction by Nell Wise Wechter

Synopsis

A longtime favorite of several generations of Tar Heels, Taffy of Torpedo Junction is the thrilling adventure story of thirteen-year-old Taffy Willis, who, with the help of her pony and dog, exposes a ring of Nazi spies operating from a secluded house on Hatteras Island, North Carolina, during World War II. For readers of all ages, the book brings to life the dramatic wartime events on the Outer Banks, where German U-boats turned an area around Cape Hatteras into 'Torpedo Junction' by sinking more than sixty American vessels in just a six-month period in 1942. Taffy has been enjoyed by young and old alike since it was first published in 1957.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• One of my favorite books from growing up based on WWII on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. I am reading “The Saddest Girl on the Beach” next and the author talked about how much she loved Taffy, so I decided to re-read it on the ferry to Ocracoke.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Saddest Girl on the Beach by Heather Frese

Synopsis

Her hotel family welcomes Charlotte with chowder dinners and a cozy room, but her friend Evie has a looming life change of her own, and soon Charlotte seeks other attractions to navigate her grief. Will she, like in some television movie, find her way back through a romance, or are there larger forces at play on Hatteras Island? Heather Frese, winner of the Lee Smith Novel Prize and author of The Baddest Girl on the Planet, sets Charlotte on a beautifully rendered course through human frailty and longing, unrelenting science, and the awesome forces of the Carolina coast.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• I saw this in Our State magazine as their book of the month and decided to pick it up. In the article about the book, the author referenced how much she loved Taffy of Torpedo Junction and that she had some inspiration from that in this book. She makes a really great reference in the novel to Taffy, and the book is quite sad. Despite that, I enjoyed it, and it felt like the ending was open-ended enough for a third novel in the series. I didn't realize this was a sequel, though not reading the first did not interfere with the context of this novel. Do pay attention to the trigger warnings.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

Synopsis

A family on a remote island. A mysterious woman washed ashore. A rising storm on the horizon.

Dominic Salt and his three children are caretakers of Shearwater, a tiny island not far from Antarctica. Home to the world’s largest seed bank, Shearwater was once full of researchers, but with sea levels rising, the Salts are now its final inhabitants. Until, during the worst storm the island has ever seen, a woman mysteriously washes ashore.

Isolation has taken its toll on the Salts, but as they nurse the woman, Rowan, back to strength, it begins to feel like she might just be what they need. Rowan, long accustomed to protecting herself, starts imagining a future where she could belong to someone again.

But Rowan isn’t telling the whole truth about why she set out for Shearwater. And when she discovers sabotaged radios and a freshly dug grave, she realizes Dominic is keeping his own secrets. As the storms on Shearwater gather force, they all must decide if they can trust each other enough to protect the precious seeds in their care before it’s too late—and if they can finally put the tragedies of the past behind them to create something new, together.

A novel of breathtaking twists, dizzying beauty, and ferocious love, Wild Dark Shore is about the impossible choices we make to protect the people we love, even as the world around us disappears.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• I will be thinking about this book for a while now. Such a beautifully written, yet sad book. Truly one of those stories that is haunting. This will be one of my favorite books of 2025.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan

Synopsis

Dolly Brick has never met a problem she couldn’t solve. Not when her mom left when she was twelve, and not at thirty-nine when she moves with her son back to Whitfield, Rhode Island, for the summer to keep her dad and brother from losing the family home.

So when she comes across Stewart Whitfield—annoyingly handsome scion of the Whitfield family—with a flat tire and at the wrong end of a very public, very humiliating breakup, it’s in her nature to help. But Stewart’s proposed arrangement ends up being more than either of them bargained for, because as public dinners and high-society benefits turn into sunset boat rides and kisses that hit her bloodstream like a ghost pepper, Dolly starts to feel something more than helpful. She’s never relied on anyone besides herself—can she really start now?

My Thoughts & Ratings

• This book is so cute -- it gives "Pretty Woman" vibes. I loved the relationship with Stewart & Gus and the way that Dolly helped Stewart loosen up. That said, I felt like the ending was a little rushed and wished there had been a little more detail to wrap it all up. A great beach read.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson

Synopsis

When Caroline Lash arrives in Greenhead, Massachusetts, she falls head-over-heels for Van Whittaker, a fleece-wearing, litter-collecting kayak enthusiast with long, floppy hair and the personality of a Border collie. Born and raised in this picturesque coastal village, Van runs with the same crowd he did as a kid: His ex-girlfriend, Bailey, a beautiful girl who attracts men like moths to a flame; Augusta, old money, horsey, and snobbish; and Fran, surrounded by brothers and sons, too fed up with boys to ever consider marrying one.

Together, the group runs wild through the marshes, beaches, and bars of Greenhead, drinking on houseboats, spending long afternoons sunbathing with their children, and playing games the way they always have. But when Bailey discovers that she is pregnant with Van’s baby, the delicate balance of the group’s friendship is thrown off. Soon Caroline is cast out of the circle and what she does next—in a potent mix of fury and heartbreak—exposes long-held secrets and works the entire town of Greenhead into a lather.

Dazzlingly funny, sexy, and as juicy as it is astute, The Shampoo Effect is a story of late-night parties, early mornings with small children, the dawn of midlife, and a group of old friends finally growing up despite all their best efforts to the contrary.

My Thoughts & Ratings

• I really enjoyed this book - it came highly recommended from friends who have good book taste. I definitely thought it was a perfect beach or pool read. The characters are messy, WASPy, and I appreciated the depth (or lack there of) of the characters. The ending was open-ended and I did like how complicated things got. It was a nice distraction from my own messiness.

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

What is a favorite book you have read recently? Let’s talk about it in the comments! ⬇️

I decided to start rewatching all the old Ted Lasso seasons leading up to the Season 4 release and I am so glad I did. What a feel good show! This weekend will be one that is equal parts productive, relaxing, and spending time with friends.

Today’s Friday 5 is sharing my 5 tried & loved list that feels a little unhinged. Here is everything I tried and loved last month — the practical, the impractical, and the “why did I put up a Christmas tree in July” of it all. Tell me what you tried and loved last month and be sure to check out all the new articles over on imfixintoblog.com.

xx, Meghan

From Fearrington x Dynamis Estate Wines Dinner

The Friday Five: 5 Things I Tried & Loved in July

1. Pixi Aftersun Sheet Mask (Set of 3)

I received these in a PR package from Pixi beauty right before we went to Ocracoke and these aftersun face masks came in so handy! They are also great for days where my skin needs a little extra moisture. Put them in the fridge for a really nice, cooling treat on hot days.

2. Poole’s Diner Summer Dishes

David and I had a belated anniversary celebration at Poole’s and their summer menu may just be my favorite. I ordered the watermelon with avocado & feta, fried okra, and tomato pie. The leftovers were just as delicious later. And of course, David and I split the iconic mac & cheese.

3. King of Christmas 9’ Flocked Tree

This is the second year in a row that I have put a Christmas tree up in July and I love this new flocked tree. I am excited to put this one up this year and I find that putting a tree up in July helps it to fall into place and helps me plan my decorations for the holiday season. Read more about this tree here.

4. Chaun Legend “Boo Thang” Manicure

I tried a new manicure color this summer and I have absolutely loved it. It would be a great neutral regardless of the season. Here are some of my other favorite summer manicure colors.

5. Dairi-O Fast Food

I took a solo road trip to Banner Elk and finally decided to stop Dairi-O on my way back home. I have heard about Dairi-O for years, though had never stopped by. I ordered a bacon cheeseburger with fries and a Cheerwine, and it was even better than I imagined. I will be making this stop a tradition on my western North Carolina road trips now.

This Week on I’m Fixin’ To — It’s a Lot!

What’s New Just ICYMI

• Blowing Rock, NC Guide 2026: Things to Do, Where to Eat and Stay

• Meadowbrook Inn Blowing Rock: A Pet-Friendly Review (2026)

• First Look: Our New King of Christmas Tree (Yes, In July)

• Best Brunch in Durham, NC: 2026 Update

• Pony Island Inn Ocracoke: A Dog-Friendly Review (Ruthie B. Approved)

• 5 North Carolina Dog-Friendly Getaways Worth the Road Trip

• End of Summer Bucket List: 10 Things to Do Before Fall Begins

• Edenton Travel Guide: Top 12 Best Things to Do (2026 Update)

Our Chief Tail Wagger from camp this week

June and July were absolute whirlwinds and I spent some time this morning going through my August calendar and being sure to book in some times for introverting. That said, I am grateful for the opportunities that I had to explore some new-to-me places in North Carolina and for visiting a special spot with our best girl.

August brings travel back to a favorite city to celebrate a friend’s 40th, a media trip with an exciting component that has been a goal of mine for a while (how’s that for cryptic, though?) and Ruthie B.’s 3rd birthday. It also is the return of some consistency with David starting another school year, which is always nice despite how much fun summer is for us!

I hope your month ahead is a smooth one and that you find some time to enjoy the things that spark joy.

xx, Meghan

I got to check out Ajjette & the Boat Bar at Ajja last week and it is the perfect spot to enjoy a summer afternoon with friends!

What I’ve Been Listening To

Funky Creative Flow on Spotify

This Month’s To-Do List

1. Keep one weekend a month open and free from plans

2. Finish some of my open articles that have been lingering

3. Close Apple watch goal for August + finish Pilates by Izzy 25 Day Challenge

4. Try 2 new-to-me restaurants

5. Frame artwork & photos for gallery walls

Currently Reading

What I’ve Been Reading

• Dolly All the Time - Annabel Monaghan: This was a good palette cleanser after reading The Saddest Girl on the Beach (which was V good, btw). It gives Pretty Woman vibes and is a great beach read.

• What women are actually using Claude for: I am in a weird space with AI — there are times where I understand some of the benefits of it and other places where I do not understand and I worry about the environmental impact on top of the impact on creativity and such. I read this article and there are some components that I really understood. Sharing this as food for thought, not as taking a stance one way or the other.

• About Vinny and Grieving The Sweet Boys (even the ones who roll in turkey poop): Years ago, I found Taylor on Instagram because of her merch — specifically her “I just want to hang with my dog” shirt, which I promptly ordered and wore with pride. Her way with words, around the grief of losing her beloved pups, especially this essay that came out when I was having a rough, sad night missing the Grant Boys really hit me. I know it is never going to go away, and I am constantly shocked about how little it takes to get me wrapped up in my feelings.

• Gap Years Are Wasted on the Young: I’ve been thinking about this A LOT recently…

• A Million Followers Can’t Pay Your Salary: I’m Fixin’ To turns 10 this month and I have been sitting with this for a WHILE. My goal was never to do this full time — it has always been a creative outlet. A space for me to share my travels, highlight other small businesses, and to compartmentalize from my other aspects of life that interest me. After 10 years of doing this, I finally broke 10K followers on Instagram, and while Instagram has never been my favorite space, that was an elusive milestone for me. There are a lot of misconceptions about content creating, and this was a great read.

By the way, look at this adult version of BookIt! with lots of prize options. It closes on August 26.

What I’m Eyeing This Month

This skirt is SO cute and I love the pattern mixing. I could see wearing it with a blue & white striped blouse, a hat, and boots for fall. Really cute!

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July’s Most Popular Posts on I’m Fixin’ To

10 Jackets to Wear over Dresses

15+ Must-Visit Restaurants in Wilmington

Must-Visit Coastal Towns in North Carolina

36 Best Vacation Spots in North Carolina

Top 10 Summer Nail Polish Colors for 2026

Our Chief Tail Wagger got to meet my nephew this past week!

This is Sully, one of my best friend’s rescue dog, who is the biggest hybrid between Winston & Gizmo. David met him in person for the first time and at times, did double takes because he looks so much like our angel, Gizmo. Ruthie & Sully had a great time together and was a huge highlight of my week.

I hope you are staying dry if you are in North Carolina — we are in desperate need of rain here, so it is a welcome sight. After a busy 2 weekends + a busy week ahead, I am so excited for a weekend to reset.

Today’s Friday Five is highlighting 5 stays in North Carolina that I cannot stop thinking about. Not included is our stay at the Mast Farm Inn from January and our Fearrington staycation with Winston and Ruthie.

Have you stayed anywhere recently that you cannot stop thinking about? Drop it in the comments below so we can check it out!

xx, Meghan

The Elizabeth Gray Vining Room at Mast Farm Inn is one of our favorites.

The Friday Five: North Carolina Stays I’m Still Thinking About

1. NuWray Hotel in Burnsville

When I first visited Burnsville a couple of years ago, the NuWray was in the middle of a major renovation and it has been on my wish list since then. The hotel opened right before Helene ripped through western North Carolina, and they were able to help house people who were affected by the hurricane.

When I finally got to visit, I was blown away with the attention to detail the hotel has and it is one of the coziest mountain places. I definitely recommend a stay here — it is the perfect location to park and enjoy the town because so much is within walking distance. Book your stay here.

2. Tuxedo Falls in Zirconia

Tuxedo Falls is like an adult summer camp. It features tree houses and tree tents, a lodge and camp store, 5 private water falls, guided fly fishing, a fire pit, soaking tubs, and private grills and pizza ovens. In addition to all of that, each space has its own unique pottery, handblown glasses in the camp store for cocktails and wine, pancake kits, pizza and steak kits for dinner, board games both in the lodge and the rooms, locally made bath and body products, and an art center. It is truly a magical spot! Bonus: it is dog friendly and the perfect spot for you and your pups to get away. Book your stay here.

3. Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill

It had been years since I spent a night at the Carolina Inn and the recent renovations are incredible. It still has the quintessential charm that the Carolina Inn is known for, though the bedrooms and common spaces have been beautifully refreshed. They still serve fresh cookies at check-in and the restaurant serves up delicious cocktails and seasonal favorites. It is a great spot for a staycation! Book your stay here.

4. Pony Island Inn in Ocracoke

The first time I ever visited Ocracoke in 5th grade, my family stayed at the Pony Island Motel and it has been an island staple for over 40s years, now updated to Pony Island Inn. It is now pet-friendly, so we had the best time showing Ruthie B around the island and calling Pony Island Inn our home base. Our room had a full kitchenette, comfortable bedding, great air conditioning, a pool, and a dog washing station. If you are looking to explore Ocracoke, this is the perfect spot to call home while there. Get a golf cart to make it even easier to get around the island! Book your stay here.

5. Perry House in Banner Elk

Despite being incredibly close to Banner Elk in other stays, I have never actually been to Banner Elk until this month. I stayed at the Perry House and it is such a welcoming space. I stayed on the first floor in the Jennifer room, which is dog-friendly if you decide to bring your pup with you. Breakfast is family style at 8:30 and Mike & Robin know their way around the kitchen for great breakfast dishes! I loved spending the evening unwinding on the front porch after walking back from dinner. It is a special spot and perfect for parking and walking to explore the charming downtown. It is also a short drive to Banner Elk Winery and Apple Hill Farm where there are alpacas. More coming to imfixintoblog.com next month!

Bonus: Embassy Suites in Asheville

David and I stayed at this gorgeous Embassy Suites in Asheville that has some of the most amazing views of the city the surrounding mountains. The location is great for walking around downtown and the rooftop has a Michelin-recommended pizza place. It was such a great stay and I cannot recommend it enough for a place to stay in Asheville.

This Week on I’m Fixin’ To

What’s New Just ICYMI

• A Dog-Friendly Day Trip to Topsail Island: Ruthie B’s First Beach Day (2026 Update)

• 25 Staycation Ideas for 2026 (Local Fun Without the Travel)

• Field Notes: Q2 in Hindsight

• 30 Best NC Small Towns for Road Trips This Summer (2026 Guide)

Our Chief Happiness Officers from our staycation at Fearrington back in the spring.

Q2 was an incredibly busy three month and I am excited to share my recap, covering April to June 2026. In this edition, I am reviewing how I did on my monthly goals (as shared in my Monthly Edits), giving you a little behind-the-scenes look at my work here, and sharing life updates.

Here is a little look at what I am including in this edition:

• How I did on my monthly goals

• A business update + what is exciting me about I’m Fixin’ To right now

• What I am currently working on

• Upcoming travel plans

• A personal life update + a look forward

How I Did on My Monthly Goals

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I hope you’ve had a great week so far — it flew by for David and me, and I’m excited to spend the weekend in one of my favorite places. Stay tuned for more on that in the coming weeks!

This week’s Friday Five highlights the 5 things I tried and loved in June, which is one of my favorite mixed bag roundups to write. This features a …

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June was pure insanity — and after three years of this, you’d think I’d see it coming, but I never do. I made it to Kansas City, which turned out to be such a sneaky-delicious food city (more on that soon). I got to catch up with friends, celebrate a string of birthdays, and squeeze in some quality time with people I love.

David and I hit our …

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It is hard for me to believe that this is the last Friday of June and we are over halfway through 2026. This weekend, David and I will be celebrating our 12th wedding anniversary and we are still debating on what exactly we may do.

For this week’s Friday Five, I am taking a look back at some of the restaurants that I have enjoyed d…

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I want to tell y’all about the moment I realized I had a K-beauty problem. It was a Tuesday night, somewhere around 10 p.m., and I was standing in my bathroom with jelly eye patches on, a glazed lip mask glistening, and a mist bottle I’d just spritzed on my face for the third time that evening. I realized I had been slowly building my collection over the last several months after first being introduced by Theresa at Fearrington Village.

Reader, my skin has never looked better.

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May is always a bit of mayhem, and this year was no different. I took a bit of an impromptu break from social media & here, so much so that I missed that this never went out when it was scheduled, so I am subbing it in for my normal Friday Five.

I enjoyed spending some time celebrating friends, including an epic 40th birthday dinn…

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I hope you slammed your laptop shut and have plans to enjoy your long weekend. My weekend will be mostly relaxing and preparing for an annual trip. This week was a bit of a doozy for David and me. Gizmo’s adoptiversary was Saturday and Winston’s birthday was Wednesday, so we both just had big feelings. We appreciate those who have …

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I am excited to share my Q1 reflections, covering January to March 2026. In this edition, I am recapping how I did on my monthly goals (as shared in my Monthly Edits), giving you a little behind-the-scenes look at my work here, and sharing a few personal life updates.

Here is a little look at what I am including in this edition:

• How I did on my monthly goals

• A business update + what is exciting me about I’m Fixin’ To right now

• What I am currently working on

• Upcoming travel plans

• A personal life update + a look forward

How I Did on My Monthly Goals

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I hope you had a good week—I cannot believe we are in the middle of May, and that next week is Memorial Day weekend. May is always mayhem, though, as I mentioned last week, it is always in the best possible way.

This week, I am rounding up some new-to-me North Carolina-based brands that I am loving right now. Have you ever heard of any of t…

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This week flew by for me — I took a solo staycation at the Carolina Inn Tuesday evening before chatting with Kristy Woodson Harvey about her newest novel. I am looking forward to spending the weekend with David and Ruthie while we freshen up our front porch for spring.

Today, I am sharing the 5 things I tried & loved last month, inclu…

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April was a doozy — we had a wonderful weekend trip to Tuxedo Falls, celebrated Winston with a bucket list before saying goodbye to our best boy, and then adjusting to a new normal. Between all of that, I did get to try a couple of new-to-me spots, took a day trip with David & Ruthie, and took time to grieve and reset.

May is a…

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Mother’s Day is next weekend, and I wanted to share some of my favorite local and small online businesses as you consider gifts for the special women in your life. The first section features local shops in Raleigh and a few surrounding areas + some experience ideas that could be included in a card for future use. The second section includes some small businesses to shop online if you are not local to Raleigh. You can find my other picks here.

I want to gently acknowledge that Mother’s Day can stir complex emotions for many of us. Whether due to loss, strained relationships, or other personal circumstances, this day holds different meanings for everyone. Yet regardless of your situation, perhaps it can also be a moment to celebrate all mother figures and those who have loved us with nurturing hearts. If this perspective does not resonate with you, please know that your feelings are valid—and I hope this day brings you whatever peace you need.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend ahead, y’all!

xx, Meghan

A Guide to Mother’s Day Gifting: Local Shops

• AILLEA: One of my favorite hidden gems in the Triangle, this is my favorite spot in Raleigh for a facial, an eyebrow wax, or a spot to get my make-up done before an event. Treat your favorite love to some self-care with a gift card to AILLEA for a service or a new product. AILLEA Raleigh is at 2032 Cameron St, Raleigh, NC 27605.

• DECO: This unique shop, located in downtown Raleigh, features some really great, one-of-a-kind pieces perfect for gift giving. Whether you are looking for trinkets or an upscale version of a board game or locally made products all in one spot, DECO has something for everyone. Having a hard time deciding? Grab a gift card! DECO is at 207 S Salisbury St, Raleigh, NC 27601.

• dovecote: You already know I adore Fearrington Village, and dovecote is one of the crown jewels of its darling shops. This beautifully curated women's boutique feels like stepping into a European wardrobe — think elevated everyday pieces, stunning jewelry, shoes, and accessories that strike the perfect balance of effortless and chic. Personal styling sessions are available if you want to make a truly special outing of it! dovecote is at 240 Market St, Pittsboro, NC 27312 (open Wednesday–Sunday).

• Flowers on Broad Street: While flower deliveries are a gorgeous option (and no one does it better than FoBS in the area), they also feature gorgeous potted plants, delicious, locally poured candles, and silk stems that can be paired with some of the beautiful vases in the shop. Flowers on Broad Street is at 517 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.

• McIntyre's Books: You may know that Fearrington Village is one of my favorite places in the area, and the bookshop here is truly a special place! Take your loved one to pick out a new book and spend time perusing the aisles here. McIntyre's Books is at 220 Market St, Pittsboro, NC 27312.

  • Here are some of my other favorite local bookstores across North Carolina and in the Triangle.

• Raleigh Wine Shop: Make your favorite mother a little gift basket or pick her up a new favorite wine. Raleigh Wine Shop has an incredible selection and is so helpful in picking out a new flavor. Raleigh Wine Shop is at 317 S Bloodworth St, Raleigh, NC 27601.

• Smitten Boutique: If you haven't made the trip to Durham's Old West Durham neighborhood, let this be your reason! Smitten has been a beloved fixture since 2008, offering thoughtfully curated clothing, jewelry, accessories, and even some locally made goodies — all for women of all ages. Owner Nancy and her team bring genuine warmth to every visit, making the shopping experience as special as the finds. Smitten Boutique is at 2702 Hillsborough Rd, Durham, NC 27705.

• Union Camp Collective: Visit my friend, Charlotte, for one-of-a-kind pieces for your mama! Charlotte has such amazing, eclectic vintage taste and it would be a fun gift to go shopping together to find your next treasures. Union Camp Collective is at 115 Old Williamson Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603.

• Viv’s Fridge: Grab some pre-made goodies from Chef Vivian Howard's Viv's Fridge at one of her Triangle locations to alleviate making an elaborate meal while still making it meaningful and delicious! Find the locations here.

• Voda Boutique: For the fashionable one in your life, check out Voda in North Hills for trendy women's clothing and accessories for the season! You can shop online or in person, and there are some really fantastic self-care options, too! Voda Boutique is at 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd #112, Raleigh, NC 27609.

A Guide to Mother’s Day Gifting: Online Small Businesses

• Bitter Southerner: The Bitter Southerner is one of my favorite online publications. Their selection of books, t-shirts, and garden flags are perfect for your favorite Bitter Southerner mamas.

• Haand: Hand-crafted in Burlington, NC, this company makes beautiful dishware, home decor, and the option to order mystery boxes. I have a serving tray with a matching bowl that always gets so many compliments and has held up exceptionally well through the years.

• Hart Studio: Hart Jewelry is based in Charleston and offers a variety of jewelry options, including the popular charm necklaces. Design one with charms that remind you of your mom or gift her a gift card to make her own!

• Hotel Lobby Candle: Y’all have heard me rave about these candles for a while now, and they make the perfect gift. The branding is beautiful, the scents are strong with lasting throw, and there are so many options depending on what scent(s) she likes. This is another option to give a gift card, let her take the quiz, and find a new home fragrance she’ll love!

• House of MBR: North Carolina artist Michelle Bradley Robertson turned her love of vintage caftans and bold, painterly prints into one of the most distinctive women's clothing brands around. Every piece is designed by Michelle herself and proudly made in the USA — iconic silhouettes in fabrics that feel like wearable art. If the special woman in your life loves to make an entrance, this is the shop for her.

• The Neighborgoods: For cute kitchen goods, like aprons and dish towels, look no further than this quaint shop. I gifted my mom a set of reuseable sponge cloths a few years ago, and she just reordered from here because she loved them so much.

• Shop the Little Bear: Tucked into the Blue Ridge foothills of Stuart, Virginia, The Little Bear is a curated mercantile inspired by high country living and classic, heirloom style. Think beautifully sourced gifts, home goods, apparel, and garden finds — the kind of shop you could spend an hour wandering online. A wonderful option if your mom loves things with a story behind them.

A Guide to Mother’s Day Gifting: Experiences Worth Giving

Sometimes the best gift is not something you can wrap — it is time, a change of scenery, and a memory made together. Consider tucking one of these getaway ideas into a card for the special woman in your life!

• ARRIVE Hotel — Wilmington, NC: For the mom who loves a chic city escape with Southern soul, ARRIVE Wilmington is it. This design-forward boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Wilmington occupies beautifully restored historic buildings, and the vibe is low-key luxe all the way — think vintage-inspired rooms, the Dram Yard restaurant serving coastal Southern cuisine, a courtyard Gazebo Bar, and fire pits for lingering into the evening. ARRIVE is at 101 S 2nd St, Wilmington, NC 28401.

• Blue Juniper Inn — Columbia, NC: If your mom is the kind of person who loves a slower pace, an unexpected destination, and genuine hospitality, the Blue Juniper Inn is for her. This contemporary boutique inn sits in the tiny riverfront town of Columbia on the Inner Banks, surrounded by over 350,000 acres of wildlife refuge and just blocks from the Scuppernong River. With only five thoughtfully appointed rooms, bikes, kayaks, and a complimentary continental breakfast, it's the kind of stay that makes you wish you'd planned for more nights. Blue Juniper Inn is at 415 Main St, Columbia, NC 27925.

• Mast Farm Inn — Valle Crucis, NC: On the National Register of Historic Places and welcoming guests since the 1800s, Mast Farm Inn is one of those rare places that wraps you in history without sacrificing a single comfort. Choose from farmhouse rooms, historic cottages, or newer cabins on the sprawling property — complete with farm animals, river access, a wood-fired sauna and cold plunge partnership, and the beloved Valle Tavern restaurant serving farm-to-table dinners. It's fifteen minutes from Boone and feels like a different world entirely. Mast Farm Inn is at 2543 Broadstone Rd, Valle Crucis, NC 28604.

• Three Trails — Elkin, NC: Named for the three historic trails that converge right in downtown Elkin — the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, the Overmountain Victory Trail, and the Yadkin River Blue-Water Trail — this beautifully renovated 19th-century building has been transformed into 14 boutique loft-style apartments with exposed brick, wood beam ceilings, and a rooftop deck overlooking the surrounding hills. You are steps from restaurants, breweries, and the Yadkin Valley wine country. It is the perfect little adventure hiding in plain sight. Three Trails is at 101 W Main St, Elkin, NC 28621.

• Tuxedo Falls — Zirconia, NC: This gorgeous glamping retreat nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains between Hendersonville and Brevard is one of those places you have to see to believe. Choose from beautifully appointed treehouses and safari-style tents, each with private outdoor soaking tubs, stunning views, and access to five private waterfalls and miles of hiking trails. Meal kits make dinner on the deck a whole event. It feels like a summer camp, reimagined for grownups — and it is absolutely magical.

Last weekend, David and I took a day trip to one of my favorite small towns and I am excited to share that travel guide with you next week. We both appreciate the kind words and thoughtful gifts from y’all after the loss of our perfect boy, Winston. We are all still adjusting from that and for me personally, my grief ebbs and flows,…

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