Metro Detroit is home. It's where we grew up and where we go on holidays to see old friends and family. It's a sense of belonging. We as a community in this area are unique and all have a sense of pride for Detroit. Because we know in our hearts, it’s not awful. There are great opportunities at every doorstep and a great starting place for anyone. We understand this area more than anyone else. From Paczki Day to Opening Day, from the orchards to the city blocks, this place is special to many Michiganders.

1. When out of state, you always claim you're from Detroit.

Whether you are from downtown Detroit or from small country town, you proudly say you're from Detroit wherever you may go outside of the mitten state, because you know people are well aware of where Detroit is.

2. The look.

You: "Yeah I'm from Detroit."

Person: *eyes widen, steps back* "Oh"

You know, the look.

3. It can go from city to corn fields real quick.

Because that's pure Michigan.

4. Opening Day is a religious holiday.

It's expected of you to call in to school or work "sick" that day. Because you know what they say, "Ain't no party like a Detroit party!"

5. You go into mother bear mode when someone throws shade at Hockeytown.

We're looking at you Chicago.

6. Special Birthday #19

As a Metro-Detroiter, it's your given birth right to head across that bridge into Canada and celebrate because however old you are is the new 21....in Canada.

7. "Born and raised in SOUTH DETROIT!"

Yes, we are all well aware that this place doesn't exist. But that doesn't stop us from damaging our voices by shouting this one line at any sports game...especially a Red Wings game.

8. The Culture.

Detroit gets backlash from every sort of media about how "dangerous" it is in the city. That's any city. But what doesn't get reported on is the culture and different arts around here. We have the DIA, Spirit of Detroit, and even the Motown Historical Museum. Just to name a few.

9. Belle Isle.

It's only one of the best places to be in the summertime, with one of the best views of the skyline.

10. Woodward Ave.

Whether it's Christmas Eve on Woodward Ave, or it's a hot August day for the Dream Cruise, this street has a special meaning for Metro-Detroiters.

11. Orchards.

How to properly spend your fall while in Metro-Detroit is to stop by one of the many orchards for some doughnuts and apple cider. It's really the only way to spend the autumn months.

12. Labor Day.

The end of the summer season is always marked by this holiday. Throughout the entire Metro-Detroit area, there are numerous festivities going on.

13. It's home sweet home.

At the end of the day, it doesn't matter where you are, this is home. This is where your heart is.