Making the most of spots in North Carolina
A Look into Life in the NC Area, and How To Live. It. Up.
I am lucky to live somewhere so nature-filled, but it can become easy to forget where I am as mosquitos are recreating scenes from Dracula, and copperheads are willing me to take another step. Whether you live in North Carolina, are visiting, or are reading from out of town, here are some ways to enjoy your time spent outside, through the eyes of a girl who wants to live life to the fullest.
first, lets set the vibe with a playlist
Rivers, Lakes, and Streams, Oh My!
If you reside in NC, and rarely (or have never) visited the many bodies of water, you are missing out. Whether you enjoy swimming, can’t swim, or want to be somewhere other than under fluorescent lighting, I highly recommend checking out your local rivers, creeks, and lakes. Boat or no boat, renting or investing in paddleboards or kayaks is an athletic way to relax. An alternative is fishing, and you can always drift down streams on a float. Simply water-gazing can also do wonders for the mind, and offers a much needed break from screens.
When Was the Last Time You Had a Picnic?
Something I rarely see are picnics. The New York Times claims that the term can be traced to a 1600’s satirical French poem, which features the Frères Pique-nicques, known for visiting friends “armed with bottles and dishes.” I don’t know about you, but this summer, I plan on getting strapped, and finally recreating a proper, and oh-so aesthetic picnic built for kings and queens. Also, your picnic doesn’t have to just be food, it can feature anything from crafts like painting, drawing, or journaling, to a good catch up session with your book of choice. If you want to bring friends along, why not whip out a deck of cards. If you are a foodie, it also doesn’t have to be an eloquently set-up charcuterie board (although they are really cute). Its not against the rules to lay out a blanket and enjoy the burrito you just bought. I promise.
Hit the Markets
Flea, farmer, and strawberry markets are just the beginning. Visiting the NC farmers market is great if you are into gardening, cooking, or general shopping. Hungry? Everything sold is fresh and organic. There are restaurants, small-bite vendors, fresh lemonade, baked goods, jams, jellies, and ice cream all within walking distance. The state flea markets are filled to the brim with trinkets and treasures of all kinds. I found a pair of authentic 1970’s roller skates one time! Driving off of I-40 in the spring/summer will have you making a U-turn faster than you can say “look, cows!” Finally, I have three words: strawberries, strawberries, strawberries. Farmers have baskets of the little gems sold all around the state. I recommend buying a whole bunch, and using them to bake strawberry muffins.
Don’t Overlook the Power of the Sun
Watching the sun rise and set is a small moment in time that we often take for granted. Finding an open space in a field or by a lake, or up high offers the best view. There are also health benefits to this past-time. Aside from the vitamin D, studies have show that sunlight stimulates serotonin (the happy hormone), benefits immunity, and improves focus and inspiration. Even if you are not a morning bird, there is something riveting about catching the first glimpse of the day. It opens doors.
Stay Committed to that New Year's fitness Goal
We are halfway through the year. Have you kept your promise? If not, why not begin again now and hit refresh? Something that is guaranteed to send chills down your spine while you ride, is blasting your favorite tunes while on a bike. I mean come on, does that not scream summer bliss? Walks, runs, and hikes also serve as a great way to get the body moving, blood flowing, and mind working.
Stay safe, stay wild, and have fun on your journey :)
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