Took an overnight trip to the Raleigh area (just 2 hrs from home) - the NC History Museum had an exhibit of John White watercolors, many done in the 1580s - he was governor of the famous 'Lost Colony' - lent from the British Museum - spectacular experience!
Stayed overnight @ a new place,
Umstead Hotel & Spa - off I-40 near Cary - just received a 5* rating, so we had to give the place a try - their restaurant is called
Herons - wonderful dining experience; we shared a tuna carpaccio/tartare appetizer followed by a wonderful bib salad; my main course was a 'center cut' 3+" thick swordfish - wife had osso bucco, which she usually can't refused when on a menu! Shared a wonderful bread pudding dessert.
Next day on the way home, drove into Chapel Hill (home of the University of NC) and stopped at the
Carolina Inn for lunch - another pleasant interlude - had a nicely grilled salmon on a bed of succotash w/ a light lobster sauce; delightful combination!
