Everyone knows the quirks of their hometown that no one else could know. We all do things on a regular basis back home that we don’t even realize we consistently do. My hometown of Winter Haven, Florida is right in between the tourist destinations of Tampa and Orlando. You know it’s a pretty small town because you can’t even seem to go to the grocery store without seeing at least three people you know. Here’s a list of all of the other reasons you know you’re from Winter Haven, Florida.
1. You always went to Cypress Gardens as a child.
Who could forget seeing that amazing ski show all the time?
2. Legoland has never been your favorite place to go.
Especially for you teenagers that work there.
3. You were excited just to know we were getting a Chipotle.
Who knew a small town would get so giddy over expensive Mexican food?
4. Your family knows EVERYONE.
There's no getting away with anything, so you might as well just run.
5. It pretty much takes you 10 minutes to get across town.
If you're in a hurry, don't worry. You'll get from Cypresswood to Downtown in no time.
6. You have to travel at least 30 minutes to go do something fun.
The only thing fun in town is eating. Oh yeah, and people watching.
7. You’ll never get a milkshake without comparing it to Andy’s Igloo.
Nothing can beat a Big Daddy shake from the best place in town.
8. You were REALLY excited when we got a Chick-fil-A and a Starbucks.
Who knew how "white girl" our town could get?!
9) You know exactly what the phrase “The Chain” is referring it to.
And if you don't, there's a 100 percent chance you aren't from around here.
10) You know that we were supposed to be called Lakeland and they were supposed to be called Winter Haven.
A little map mix-up story that everybody knows.
Yes, Winter Haven is such a small town, but you know you love it. Let’s just hope we still keep getting some great, new restaurants. All I’m waiting for is the Steak n’ Shake to open when I’m home for Christmas break. You Winter Haven natives know what I mean…
