7 things to do in Raleigh before leaving for NYC

So for anyone that knows me knows that ever since I left New York the summer before my freshman year of high school, I have always made it my plan to go back and live in the greatest city in the world after college. FINALLY that dream has come true! I'm heading to New York in 6 days to start a job with a start up PR firm in midtown on Third Avenue and I could not be more excited. Also, for those who know me know that I have spent countless hours job searching this summer and it has finally paid off!

So, since I'm leaving in 6 days for the concrete jungle I made sure to make the most out of my last few weeks in the beautiful North Carolina visiting friends, spending time with family and getting everything ready for the big move.

1. Unfortunately, one of the first things I had to do to get ready for my move to NYC was sell this beauty. My 2010 iSport Mazda 3 birthday present 2 years ago. Although I was upset we had to sell it at first it really does make complete sense. I will definitely not be needing a car in NYC. Goodbye Mazda 3.

2. My NC friends and I planned a trip up to DC to celebrate one of my best friends birthday as well as to visit another friend that recently relocated there for a great job. Although I was hesitant at first much about spending so much money right before leaving for New York, it turned out to be a great last vacation before we all separated. One in Minneapolis, NYC, Washington D.C, 2 in Raleigh and 1 in Wilmington. I have lots of travel plans brewing in my mind for the next 2 years!

3. I most definitely had to attend one last country concert in Raleigh before leaving and it turned out to be the best concert I've EVER experienced. On the way to our lawn seats a random (Yes, I'm dead serious when I say RANDOM) person came up to my friend Leigha and I asking if we wanted front row seats for the Brad Paisley show. We remained dumbfounded during the entire concert watching Brad Paisley and The Band Perry from, literally, the best seats in the entire arena. (I was feeling so lucky the next day I went and played the lottery...twice)

4. I recommend the next activity to any mom, best friend, daughter and/or sister you know. (Dads, brothers and boyfriends probably wouldn't love it as much as my mom and I did.) For my mom's birthday we went to Artistic Abandon in Raleigh and OMG who knew how much fun painting could be! We sat in a class of about 30 women (Yup not 1 man in there) drank mimosas and followed a teacher's instructions on how to paint the beautiful masterpieces you see above! It was a perfect Saturday morning activity and I can't wait to hang the painting in my NYC apartment to remind me of this day,

5. Attend the Lazy Daze festival in Cary! This festival only happens once a year and while it is extremely crowded there are truly some hidden treasures to be found at this fair. From vintage jewelry, amazing photographs, paintings, glass blowing, DIY activities, face painting (for the kiddies) kettle corn, awesome food, boutiques etc. It's another great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Attending this fair mixed with countless hours spent on Pinterest have inspired me to become a lot more crafty with my time!

6. One of my final weekend activities before leaving for NYC was a going away brunch for my best friend who is currently on her way to Minneapolis for a new job! Looking for a delicious brunch spot in Raleigh? Definitely go and check out Coquette at Six Forks Road. Not only do they have amazing quiches, croque madames and breakfast sandwiches, but they have bottomless mimosas for only $10!  It's deals like THAT I will miss the most in 6 days. And of course my friends and family :-D 

7. Oh and of course there is packing to do! Well, this is how that's going. And yes, that would be my dog laying on top of all the things I'm trying to pack for New York. Thanks for the help Scout. Of course I only listed the fun stuff I've been doing in my spare time because who wants to read about getting shoes repaired, getting pants hemmed, shopping for more work clothes, apartment searching, (and getting nowhere) and deciding what to bring and not to bring to my pigeon hole apartment in the city. Guess that post will have to wait for next time!

If anyone else has suggestions on things to do in Raleigh before I leave I would love to hear them!