Growing up in one place means that you become accustomed to the lifestyle of that specific area.
The way things are said or just day-to-day routine is like a second nature. Now, take yourself and go to a completely different location, and sometimes the phrase "culture shock" is a bit of an understatement.
Being from Long Island, I'm sure that many of my fellow Long Islanders can agree that these are just a few of the questions that always follow up the starter "Where are you from?"
1. Can You Say The Word "Coffee/Dog/Talk"?
I get it, I say words in a funny way. But to me, I'm not the one with the accent - you are. And I will walk my dawg and drink my cawfee as much as I want, thank you very much.
2. Do You Know Theresa Caputo?
Just because both me and the Long Island Medium are both from Long Island does NOT mean I know her. It's a big island (but I did see her in a mall once, it was exciting).
3. Why Are LI Towns So Hard To Pronounce?
I don't know, I didn't choose them. But after a while you get used to having to say names like Massapequa and Quogue and Sagaponack
4. Why Do You Call NYC "The City"? It's Obviously *Whatever City Is Closest To Them*
No. It's not. That city may be closer to you, but it won't compare to NYC.
5. Long Island Bagels/Pizza Aren't Even That Good, Why Are You All Crazy About Them?
We can't be friends, because you're lying.
6. Do You Have A House In The Hamptons?
The only time I' have ever been to the Hamptons was to work as a caterer for the people rich enough to live in the Hamptons
7. Do You Listen To Billy Joel?
I know plenty of people who listen to him that aren't from LI so what's your point?
8. Do You Really Use The Subway? Isn't It Dirty?
Yes, I use the subway. And considering the amount of people who use it every single day, it could be a hell of a lot dirtier
9. What's A "Carvel"?
Only some of the best ice cream with the best ice cream cakes you'll ever have
10. What Do You Mean You Don't Have Wawa?
I mean that the closest Wawa to us is in New Jersey. We also don't have Sheetz or Turkey Hill. We have 7/11, and a lot of them
11. Why Do You Call Hoagies "Heroes"?
Because that's what they're called, I don't know what a 'hoagie' is
12. Why Do You Live There If It's So Expensive?
Because while it is expensive, its the best location to be at. You're either closer to the beach and a little farther from the city, or closer to the city and a little father from the beach. Do you really need anything else?
13. Why Is Minimum Wage Higher In NY Than Here?
Because of exactly what you just asked me. It's expensive as hell to live here
14. Does Everyone There Really Drive Like Jerks?
If you would drive a little faster, we wouldn't have to. Also, just so you know, it's not illegal to use your horn every once in a while. (P.S. if you don't like regular NY drivers, steer clear of taxi cabs)