I'm from the beautiful sunshine state, also known as Florida. Florida has its ups and downs, but I wouldn't have wanted to grow up anywhere else. Never did I think I would miss Florida, but here I am 600 miles away and writing a sappy article about it. The following are a few things my peeps from way yonder will understand.
1. Disney World
It is mind boggling to find out someone has never been to Disney World. What I need to realize is that when you only live a few hours from the park you are bound to make a visit. Also, this may not be the case with everyone, but my home seems to be filled with Disney merchandise, from purses to kitchenware.
2. Oranges everywhere
This may be the reason I connect so well with Annoying Orange. Yes, it's true, oranges are everywhere because they are always in season; it also helps that oranges are super cheap. Pass the OJ please!
3. Mosquitoes are just the worst.
Mosquitoes have the same idea as people when retirement comes around, "Let's move to Florida!" Mosquitoes are everywhere; when I take one step out the door at least ten of them suddenly appear and attack. The only reason Floridians like cold weather is because there are no mosquitoes around. Stop global warming or else the skeeters will take over.
4. "What? It's too cold to wear shorts?"
Floridians do not own heavy winter equipment because quite frankly we don't need it. When it actually does get cold we freak out, most of the time we throw on as many layers as possible, although we usually still opt for our favorite pair of flip-flops in 40 degree weather.
5. Beach is life
Whether you like the beach or not, the beach is the place where most of your childhood memories took place. Most likely because you were there on a weekly basis or is that just me?
6. Perfect hair is a myth
The humidity in Florida makes for an unpleasant outdoor experience. It means excessive sweating, frizzy hair and fog everything.
7. Love bugs are aren't so lovable
Just look at the picture. No explanation needed.
8. Rain, rain go away
Over the summer it rains at about the same time everyday. Don't worry it will only last 15 minutes tops, then you can get back to your regularly scheduled programming. The rain doesn't faze most native Floridians.
9. Gators are a part of life
No, not the team, the famed alligator. Gators can be found not only at the gator farm but also in your backyard and can even be seen crossing the road. They are so prevalent that most Floridians learn how to run away from a gator properly (Run in a zig-zag pattern).
10. Publix
One of the things I miss most about Florida is the one and only Publix. What makes Publix the best grocery store is not only the fact that it has super friendly employees, but also because they give you a free cookie every time you visit! And don't get me started on their subs.
