📫How You Can Help Families in Wake County | Sleigh Bells... Sort Of! | Amazon Scams |Dog Food Recall📍

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Hello friends!

🌲 Happy National Take a Hike Day!

Today’s the perfect excuse to lace up your boots and enjoy the fresh fall air — it’s National Take a Hike Day! Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or just looking for a peaceful walk in nature, Wake County has plenty of scenic spots to explore. One of the best? Umstead State Park in Raleigh — with over 20 miles of shaded trails winding through forests, streams, and lakes, it’s the ideal place to clear your mind and stretch your legs. So grab a friend, pack some water, and hit the trail — your Monday just got a whole lot better! 🥾🍁

See you out there in beautiful Wake,
Diane

—Philippians 4:6
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

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📍 Today’s Chuckle 📍

Why did the scarecrow become such a great hiker?
Because he was outstanding in his field! 🌾😄

📍 Trivia 📍

• Umstead State Park is historic – The park covers over 5,500 acres of forests and lakes, but did you know much of it was once farmland and private estates before being turned into a state park in 1945?

• Trail diversity – Wake County trails range from easy loops perfect for families to challenging woodland trails. For example, Sycamore Creek Trail in Umstead features boardwalks over wetlands, giving hikers a chance to see wildlife like turtles and herons.

• Birdwatching bonus – Wake County trails are a hidden haven for bird enthusiasts. On the Reedy Creek Trail, you might spot migratory birds in spring and fall, including warblers, woodpeckers, and even the occasional bald eagle.

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The Magic of Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum

There’s something undeniably romantic about a crisp mountain evening in Asheville, where the air smells faintly of pine and the stars shimmer just above the treetops. Now add to that a million twinkling lights, glowing pathways, and hand-in-hand strolls through dazzling gardens — and you’ve found the perfect setting for love. The Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum transforms one of the state’s most beautiful botanical spaces into a holiday dreamscape, inviting couples and families alike to experience the season in the most enchanting way possible.

Running November 15 through January 4, this beloved annual event features countless light displays carefully woven through the Arboretum’s 434 acres of forest and gardens. Each year brings new surprises — from illuminated flowerbeds and dancing trees to the whimsical “Troll Trail” that delights guests with its mix of art and wonder. The lights reflect off nearby ponds, creating shimmering mirror images that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a snow globe come to life.

For couples, it’s the perfect date night. Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa or cider from the café, and take a slow, sparkling walk under canopies of color. The soft music, glowing sculptures, and peaceful forest backdrop create a cozy intimacy that’s both festive and calming. It’s easy to lose track of time, pausing often to snap photos or just soak in the moment together.

Families will find plenty to love too — children’s laughter fills the trails, and there are fire pits for roasting marshmallows and warming chilly hands. Every turn offers a new photo opportunity, and even the Grinch himself couldn’t resist smiling amid this radiant display.

Whether it’s your first visit or a returning tradition, the Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum is more than just a holiday event — it’s a reminder of how beauty and togetherness can light up even the coldest nights. If you’re looking to rekindle a little romance, spark holiday joy, or simply marvel at the magic of nature dressed in lights, Asheville’s glowing gardens are waiting to welcome you.

📍 Location: The North Carolina Arboretum, Asheville, NC
📅 Dates: November 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
🎟️ Tickets: Timed-entry tickets available online; advance purchase recommended
☕ Insider Tip: Go on a weeknight for fewer crowds, and stop by the gift shop for locally made keepsakes to remember your luminous evening.

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Dog Food Listeria Recall

Several pet food products have been recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes contamination, which poses a health risk to both animals and humans. Handling contaminated food can spread the bacteria, and infected pets—even if they don’t show symptoms—can shed Listeria in their saliva or feces.

Notable recent recalls include:

• Viva Raw: Two frozen lots recalled for Listeria (and Salmonella) risk. U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• Darwin’s Natural Pet Products: Specific “BioLogics Beef” lots flagged for Listeria. U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• JustFoodForDogs: Three “daily diet” meals recalled over possible Listeria contamination in green beans. U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• Bravo Packing, Inc.: All “Performance Dog” and “Ground Beef” raw foods recalled for Listeria risk. U.S. Food and Drug Administration

• Texas Tripe, Inc.: Multiple raw pet-food lots recalled due to Salmonella and Listeria concerns.

How You Can Help Families in Wake County

This time of year can be especially tough for many families right here in Wake County. As temperatures drop and the holidays approach, the pressure of higher bills, reduced work hours, and the rising cost of essentials hits harder than ever. Many of our neighbors are facing difficult choices—heat or groceries, warm clothes or gifts for their children.

If you are able, I invite you to join me in spreading some kindness and lifting up the families around us. Even small acts—one coat, one toy, one bag of groceries—can truly make a difference.

Below are several trusted Wake County organizations that welcome donations of coats, food, and toys. Your generosity will go directly to children and families in our community.

Where You Can Give in Wake County

Carolina Cares Inc. – Serving families across the Triangle

Carolina Cares focuses on supporting children and households facing food insecurity and clothing shortages. They accept new and gently used coats, clothing, shoes, holiday items, and children’s gifts.
Website: carolinacaresnc.org
Tip: They keep an updated list of urgent needs—checking before you drop off helps them serve families quickly.

The Salvation Army of Wake and Lee Counties – Coats & Toys for Local Kids

Each winter, The Salvation Army runs coat and toy drives that directly support families in Wake County. Their annual "Coats for the Children" campaign, in partnership with WRAL, provides warm clothing and holiday gifts for kids who need them most.
Address: 1863 Capital Blvd., Raleigh
What to give: New or gently used coats, new unwrapped toys, and financial contributions.
Tip: Coats for all ages—infants through adults—are always needed.

Dorcas Ministries – Cary & Apex

Dorcas Ministries operates one of the most active food pantries in western Wake County and provides clothing, household items, and financial assistance to families struggling to make ends meet.
Cary Location: 187 High House Rd.
Apex Location: 1600 Olive Chapel Rd., Suite 408
What to give: Non-perishable food, pantry staples, clothing, household goods, and holiday essentials.
Tip: Peanut butter, pasta, canned vegetables, soups, and rice are always in high demand.

How You Can Help—Even in Small Ways

• Donate warm coats, hats, gloves, and winter clothing. Gently used items in good condition are welcomed.

• Pick up a few extra pantry staples on your next grocery trip.

• Add a toy or two to your shopping cart to brighten a child’s holiday.

• Consider gift cards or small financial donations—these allow organizations to meet urgent needs quickly.

• Share this information with friends and neighbors. Word of mouth creates more giving.

If you are able to give this season—whether it’s a coat your child has outgrown, a bag of groceries, or a toy for a little one—your kindness will ripple through our community in ways you may never see, but families will feel deeply.

Let’s help keep Wake County warm, fed, and hopeful this winter.

Sleigh Bells… Sort Of! Where to Find Sleigh & Carriage Rides in Wake County This Holiday Season

Okay ladies—let’s talk sleigh rides. We all have that Hallmark-movie fantasy: soft snowflakes drifting down, the jingle of bells, a cozy blanket, and a magical horse-drawn sleigh gliding through a winter wonderland.

But this is North Carolina… so unless Mother Nature gifts us a surprise six inches of snow (hey, we can dream!), true sleigh rides are a rare holiday unicorn.

Still, don’t pack away your Christmas-movie dreams just yet! Wake County has some charming options that bring the festive vibes—whether you’re climbing into a bonafide sleigh or a horse-drawn carriage that’s just as romantic.

Let’s break it down.

Forest View Farms – Your Best Chance at a “Real” Sleigh Ride

If anywhere is going to give you that classic sleigh-over-the-snow moment, it’s Forest View Farms.

They offer sleigh rides and carriage rides, and you can schedule your own cozy holiday experience by giving them a call. Here’s the catch:
👉 They need at least six inches of snow for a real sleigh ride.

So basically, cross your fingers, light a candle, and maybe whisper a wish to the Snow Queen. If the flakes don’t fall, no worries—they’ll switch to a lovely carriage ride instead, complete with the jingling bells and festive charm you’re craving.

Booking: Call to schedule and confirm availability based on snow/conditions (the website lists hay-rides & sleigh rides. Forest View Farms+1

Fuquay-Varina – Holiday Carriage Rides With Small-Town Magic

Fuquay-Varina puts on “Sleigh Rides 2025,” but spoiler alert—they’re usually not sleighs. (Again… North Carolina.)
What you will get, though, is a super cute horse-drawn carriage ride, decked out with that small-town Christmas sparkle we all adore.

These rides are typically held on select December dates, so keep an eye on local calendars for exact times—perfect for a girls’ night, a family outing, or a romantic Hallmark-moment-in-the-making.

Booking: Through the Fuquay‑Varina Downtown Association (FVDA) website; public tickets available after sponsor/priority distribution. FVDA+1

Watch Out for These Amazon Scams – And How to Protect Yourself

Amazon scams are on the rise, and they’re becoming more sophisticated, targeting both seasoned shoppers and casual users. These scams often come in the form of phishing emails, fake delivery notifications, fraudulent customer service calls, or even counterfeit product listings. The goal? To steal your personal information, payment details, or Amazon account access.

Common Scams to Watch For:

• Fake Emails or Texts: Messages claiming there’s an issue with your order or account, often asking you to click a link or provide personal information.

• Impersonating Amazon Customer Service: Scammers may call or email, claiming there’s a problem with your payment or account, urging immediate action.

• Counterfeit or Suspicious Listings: Products sold at unbelievably low prices or by unverified sellers may be fake or never delivered.

• “Too Good to Be True” Promotions: Free gift cards, prizes, or rewards that require personal details or upfront payments.

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Verify the Source: Always check sender email addresses and URLs carefully. Legitimate Amazon emails come from @amazon.com.

2. Don’t Click Suspicious Links: Type Amazon’s website directly into your browser instead of clicking links.

3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your account.

4. Check Seller Ratings: Only buy from verified sellers with strong reviews.

5. Report Suspicious Activity: Forward phishing emails to [email protected] and contact Amazon support for any concerns.

Staying vigilant and cautious can save you from falling victim to these scams. When in doubt, go directly to Amazon’s official site or app rather than interacting with unsolicited messages.

A Veteran’s New Start — Sparked by a Social Media Burst

A 51-year-old Army veteran from Michigan named Chantwan was recently facing homelessness just days after his release from prison. Then a TikTok video posted by influencer Zachery Dereniowski (aka MDMotivator) asked a simple question: would he rather have $1,000 cash or a mystery basketball? Chantwan chose the basketball — and in that moment shared that his birthday was coming up and that his dream was simply “to be happy.”

The outpouring of compassion that followed was exceptional: a fundraiser sprang up and has already raised over $120,000, earmarked to help Chantwan get back on his feet. Through this act of kindness the spotlight shifted from his struggles to his dignity. It becomes not only a story of second chances, but also of what happens when strangers unite to restore someone’s hope.
Key takeaway: A meaningful gesture, paired with storytelling and community support, can transform lives.

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up."
— Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

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