Battle of the Carolinas {Collab with Isabel and Sophie of Normally in Navy}

Like most people, I love my state. I was born in Maryland and lived in New Jersey for two years when I was little, but I consider myself to be from North Carolina as I have lived here for most of my life (over 12 years!).

When I was emailing Isabel and Sophie of Normally in Navy, they suggested that we share what we love about our states (they both live in South Carolina!). I loved the idea so I will be sharing my favorite things about North Carolina and be sure to visit their blog to see their favorite things about South Carolina!

 (image via)

The Barbecue (image via)

Oh gosh, the pork butt. My family jokes you can tell I was born in the South (my siblings were born in New Jersey) because I love, love, love barbecue. I actually just ate it 20 minutes before writing this post. North Carolina is serious about their barbecue and for a good reason! It's so good!

Proximity to the beach and the mountains

Yes, North Carolina is a coastal state but it is just as easy to get to the mountains as it is to get to the beach so you get the best of the both worlds.

Krispy Kreme (image via)

Did y'all know Krispy Kreme was invented here in North Carolina? Despite not loving it as a child, I have now realized how great it truly is! If you're not from NC, be sure to test it out if you're ever here, you wouldn't regret it!

The Outer Banks

I grew up going to the Outer Banks in the summer and the beaches are so so gorgeous!

The Sports

I'll be the first to so that I am definitely not the most sports-addicted but North Carolina has a lot to offer. From the Duke/UNC rivalry, to the Panthers (whose home field is in Charlotte), to the Hornets, to the Knights baseball team, North Carolina has so many teams to cheer for!

The Mountains (image via)

They definitely don't compare to mountains around the country but for Carolinians who hate the cold, the mountains are perfect for skiing and seeing a bit of snow! Plus in the summer months, there is gorgeous views and hiking!

Charlotte (image via)

I live in Charlotte so I'm a bit biased but it's such a great city! There is so much to do from shopping, eating, visiting the White Water Rafting Center (which I have yet to visit), concerts, the list goes on and on!

The Lakes

Fun fact I just learned: North Carolina has 1,500 lakes that are bigger than 10 acres. Perfect for cooling off during the hot summer months!

One Tree Hill

OTH was set and filmed in North Carolina. If you visit Wilmington (where it was filmed), you can actually visit a few locations from the show! I loved OTH regardless, but having it be in North Carolina made it twenty times better for me!

Which Carolina is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!