We've pretty much all been there—either you have driven through one or lived in one and in rare cases, you might have heard about one. The rumors are true people: small towns are real. So if you ever find yourself in a place with some of these characteristics, you know your straight in the middle of one.

1. Everyone knows everyone.

Why do you think being a new kid at the local high school was so groundbreaking? Its because you're the first new person to step in this town since the town clerk got remarried to that lady from Tennessee.

2. El restaurante mexicano.

It was always the place to go after a football game, a long day at work or even if you were just craving those chips and salsa. You always know when your in one because every TV has the latest episode of the Mexican soap opera on.

3. No one knows where on Earth you're from.

Trying to explain to people where you're from is like trying to explain how many galaxies there are in the universe. In the end, you end up just saying you're from the nearest metropolitan area, even if it is at least an hour from where your house actually is.

4.The town preacher may or may not double as your parole officer.

I speak of this from experience. I ran a red light and was awarded a parole officer for it. I couldn't quite put my finger on where I knew him from until I walked into church the next morning.

5. Don't fret. You'll always see someone you know.

Here's some advice, steer clear of Walmart if you plan on shopping in sweatpants, a big t-shirt and a messy bun on top of your head, unless you want the whole town to see you dressed that way.

6. Front page is the news.

Every yard sale, car wash, fundraiser and occasional theft can be found right smack center in the front page. And every mug shot is accompanied by a first and last name and what street they live on. Odds are you know them.

7. There is never an original outfit.

Girls, this one is for you. We all know that one boutique in town that has all the cute clothes— and so does every other girl. Vacations with your family are always needed, but the real fun was when you come back with your new wardrobe and have to answer the question, "Ooh that's so cute! Where'd ya get it?"

8. By "going out" we mean...

Sitting around a campfire with music blaring from the nearest pick-up truck.

9. Secrets are for everyone.

Watergate has nothing on American small towns. Every single human in Smalltown, USA knows more about you than you even knew about yourself. Though, here's a little hint: not everything you hear is true.

10. Tractors are people too.

If you are from a small town, you know that this picture puts you in a hurry and you don't even have anywhere to be. For all of you not from a small town, you should know that this tractor is going about five miles per hour and the cars behind it are going about three. Isn't it funny how they only appear when you have somewhere to be?

11. It will always be home.

No matter where the wind blows, no matter where the world takes you, you can always be sure that the same people that waved you off are sure to be the same ones that are waving you home. Because no matter how far you go you always seem to come back to the town, your town that made you who you are today. I mean, there must be some good reason that all your friend's parents also graduated from the same high school you did, right?