A WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER
For all you avid CIRCA readers out there, you may recall that based on my publisher’s letters from years
past, fall is my absolute favorite time of the year! Th e days off er a much-welcomed chill (aft er a VERY
hot and humid summer); the leaves are changing to their vibrant hues of red and gold; pumpkin everything
is everywhere; the many crates full of holiday decorations are making their way down from the
attic (and I mean many – I admit I may have a bit of an obsession when it comes to holiday décor); my
cozy and comfy sweaters are fi nally being worn again; and the oven is ready for some delicious autumn
baking. It’s during this time of year that I truly savor delightful days and enchanting evenings – yes, I absolutely love fall.
As you read this issue of CIRCA, it will quickly become apparent many of our wonderful writers feel the same way! I’m
thrilled to share their insight, expertise, and advice to help you too enjoy fall to it fullest.
If you’re looking for fun and festive holiday decorating ideas and inspiration, you’ll fi nd them here – check out “Transitional
Holiday Décor” and “A Little DIY Holiday Spirit.” And should you want to add some natural beauty and bring joy to your
interior and exterior environments, “Gorgeous Garden Mums” and “Beautiful Blooms For Christmas Cheer” are must reads.
Looking to ramp up your culinary creations this season? “A Fresh Dinner Canvas,” “North Carolina’s Seasonal Sensations,”
and “Baked In Tradition” can help you do just that. And “Let’s Talk Turkey” off ers expert advice on how to enjoy a fabulous
and safe holiday feast.
Maybe you’re interested in taking advantage of the cooler weather and the hot real estate market and are looking to sell
your home this season. If so, you won’t want to miss “Easy Updates To Get Your Home Market Ready” and “It’s Time To
Sell.” And be sure to read “Holiday Home Selling” for suggestions on selling during the Christmas season specifi cally.
While COVID-19 has canceled some traditional holiday happenings for this season, there are still exciting opportunities
that await. For instance, read about “Spirits Of Wake Forest” – where our haunted history comes to life. Th is issue’s “Driveable
Destination” features the beauty of Blowing Rock in the majestic mountainous part of our state, and all the enjoyment
waiting to be discovered. And if you do drive west for a visit, you just might want to bring home with you a glorious North
Carolina Christmas tree. Learn more about this Christmas icon in “Th e Magic Of Th e Christmas Tree.”
Many other wonderful features will be found on the following pages – “Shop Local,” with 10 reasons why you should support
community businesses this holiday season; “Hidden Gems,” highlighting area locales for your next treasured holiday
photo; “Oh Deer!” detailing safe driving tips for deer season; “Visual Stress During Th is COVID Mess” for all you readers
staring at your screens a lot more these days; “Understanding Insurance” so you can more easily tackle the upcoming
open enrollment period; “Good Reads” for the perfect book to enjoy on a perfectly relaxing autumn aft ernoon; and more.
As you enjoy all the fabulousness of fall, I hope you also enjoy this edition of CIRCA. And as always, please patronize the
many wonderful advertisers who made it possible for us to bring it to you. Now more than ever, these businesses – the
backbone of our great community – need our support.
Please continue to stay safe, healthy, and well – wishing you and yours the happiest of holidays. See you in 2021!