Welcome to the second half of the Confessions of a North Forker series. If you haven't seen the first part, check it out here! Here are a few more things we hate to admit.
We're country, but not "country."
Yes, Long Island rednecks do exist. But the North Fork represents a lot more than pick-up trucks and camouflage jackets. It's a mix of an agricultural, nautical, and preppy community and lifestyle. So, yes, I'll be listening to MyCountry 96.1 FM, but I also might be wearing a polo and khakis.
Visiting wineries isn't as common as you'd think.
Besides bridal showers and the occasional girl's day out, locals don't visit wineries as much as you would think. Don't get me wrong -- they're gorgeous, but they're mostly a tourist attraction.
Tanger is great, but not that great.
For those who aren't aware, Tanger (Outlets) is a beautiful outdoor outlet mall located in Riverhead. However, it gets incredibly packed from April to November. Route 58 is backed up like never before. People from the City, and beyond, come out to Riverhead to help fund our local economy, and to park crooked. You can get great deals, but it's not worth searching for a parking spot for 40 minutes (not exaggerating).
Nantucket Reds aren't a necessity, but boat shoes are.
If I had a nickel every time I saw someone with Nantucket Reds on, I'd probably have a dollar. But if the same went for boat shoes, I'd be able to put the U.S. out of debt until the end of time.
It's true -- everyone has a boat, or has a friend with one.
Being so close to the water is such a great thing. Summers are filled with endless beach days and boat rides. There's a dock 10 to 20 minutes in every direction. But nothing really beats a day sailing around on the Sound.