Most preconceived notions are usually highly misinterpreted perceptions. People might read about NC on the news or even want to visit our beaches and mountains – but you can look at a pretty picture of the Outer Banks and never truly understand what exactly makes up our deep love for the state. North Carolina is a great place – but if you’re planning to visit you might want to know these 12 things.
1. We don't make the rules.
Please stop blaming us (the general population) for laws and regulations relatively out of our control.
2. We might not be the best at handling the snow, but we know how to make it fun.
C'mon, everyone loves a little chaos - the rush to the grocery store (and some epic battles for the last gallon of milk), getting snowed in, sledding in the neighborhood despite our age, and generally enjoying the one to two epic snowfalls we get each winter.
3. We all want to see fall leaves, but please don't hold up traffic.
Out of staters flock to our beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway come fall, but this doesn't mean it's ok to drive 2mph to see the leaves and the views. Just pull off at an overlook to take it in before creating a traffic jam.
4. YES, basketball is a huge deal.
While everyone respectively takes a UNC V Duke side...not everyone here is a UNC or Duke fan. Many attended other schools throughout the state like NC State, App, or ECU, and support their basketball teams just as much as the next person yelling "Go Heels!"
5. We're southern but have our own culture.
Past the Mason-Dixon line each state has its own unique southern flare. North Carolinians are a bit more laid back in their ways as opposed to, say, someone from Alabama. Northerners typically lump the entire south into this super southern, sometimes hillbilly image, but it's far from reality.
6. We'll keep it real with you.
Our state motto, Esse quam videri or "To be rather than to seem," is something North Carolinians almost subconsciously embody. We're laid back yet also honest.
7. Yet we also have some ways around that.
Sure, we're "real," but hey - we also have manners! Just be warned - "bless your heart" is not necessarily a good thing.
8. Adventure is our second nature.
Between waves to surf, mountains to climb, and places to see, North Carolinians are inherently adventurous. We're always looking for the next fun experience and try to take advantage of our beautiful scenery as much as we can.
9. Our beer is better than yours.
The craft beer scene in North Carolina is not only exploding, but turning into its own profitable industry. Most North Carolinians prefer to order a local or state-made brew. Breweries are also some of our favorite hangouts for weekend fun.
10. And our wine is pretty awesome too.
North Carolina's Yadkin Valley, a prime wine growing region found in the Piedmont and nestled in the foothills, rivals Napa Valley. Throughout the entire state, vineyards and small wineries make some of the best wine. In the west you'll find more dry blends while the east does love a good muscadine wine.
11. We value simplicity.
North Carolinians love a good sunset from the front porch. We find the best BBQ in old buildings (and prefer pit cooked). We know big cities are great but small towns are true hidden gems. We're happy spending the day next to a gorgeous waterfall or just enjoying all the scenery offered.
12. North Carolina will always have a huge space in our hearts.
From travels and my experience, I've grown to realize North Carolinians posses some of the deepest state pride and love for our home state. Even if we venture away from "the land of the pines," you can never really take us out of North Carolina. It's a mindset, it's a way of life, it's more than a home - it's a place in our heart.
What others would you add to the list? I think one of my favorite things is how much state pride North Carolinians posses, it’s really amazing to witness!
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