There’s something special about growing up in the greatest state known to man, which, honestly, can’t be explained. But there are a lot of things that can.

Blue Bell

First and foremost, the most important of all things Texas. You put two bowls of ice cream in front of us, one being Blue Bell, and one not, and I promise you that we will nail it every time. We know our Blue Bell. Besides, there’s literally nothing like it, no ice cream will ever compare.

Coke or Dr. Pepper?

Dr. Pepper is it’s own, delicious beverage, therefore, it respectfully gets referred to by its name. Sprite? Coca Cola? Rootbeer? Pepsi? Yeah, those are all referred to as “Coke” in Texas. And for the love of all things good, don’t you dare refer to coke as “pop” in this state.

Summer, spring and winter... all in the same day

I can’t tell you how many days I’ve woken up, walked outside in Nike shorts and been completely comfortable, but only a few short hours later needed a jacket because the temperature dropped 20 degrees. Texas is confused, we know.

Killer thunderstorm versus sunshine filled beach day

You read that right; again, I lost count of how many times I’ve been driving down the freeway, and to my right? Black skies with non-stop lighting. To my left? Beautiful blue skies without a single cloud. Any native Texan can back me on that.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

I almost feel like I shouldn’t have to explain this one because everyone should know about it, but I will. Only the best time of the year. The largest rodeo in the world, right in our home state. I’ve grown up rather close to Houston, so naturally, it’s an every year thing for my family, friends and I. Not to mention a different country singer every night for a whole month! And the food?! Don’t get me started. Fried oreos and cheesecake? If you could only imagine!

Texas Country

If you’re a small town girl (or guy), you probably prefer Texas country over popular country. We have our very own genre of music. That’s right, you read that correctly. Cody Johnson, Aaron Watson, Wade Bowen, Casey Donahew Band, Kevin Fowler, Randy Rogers and so many more. And what’s even cooler? You’ve probably seen most of the singers live at an event or a college bar, and they get better and better each time.

The County Fair

In middle school, oh boy. This was the best event for two reasons:

1. Teachers would hand out coupons to get a free wristband for the carnival
2. You would usually get at least one three or four day weekend. They would make it a school holiday because so many people were in FFA and showed animals, etc. so half of the school would be gone anyways.

And when you get a little older (and you’re legal), the cook off weekend each year is one you’ll never forget (or remember).

Food

I don’t care what anyone says, I’ve been to quite a few states, and I’ve never tasted any food better than the southern goodness we have in Texas. Tex Mex? There’s a reason why it has the name “Tex.” Other states may try, but they have yet to succeed in my book, although I am a little biased. BBQ? Chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy? Fried backstrap? My mouth is watering already. Oh, and Whataburger. 'Nuff said.

Sweet Tea

And it’s even better in Texas because it’s served in a mason jar. That is all.

Southern Hospitality

It’s real. It may not be just in Texas, but people are just genuinely nicer here. Life isn’t as fast paced (well, other than Houston, Dallas, and Austin), and (most) people take time to do nice things for each other, i.e.: holding doors for each other and smiling and nodding as we pass by.

Yes sir, yes ma’am... or else

Growing up, I was always made to respond to my elders with “ma’am” and “sir.” Responses like “yeah” always resulted in a paddle meeting my behind. No, it doesn't mean that we think you’re old, it’s respectful. Sheesh.

Texas isn’t another planet (Although it could be)

No people, we don’t have stables at school to park our horses in. No, we don’t drive tractors to work. Yes, we have big cities and plenty of civilization. No, Texas is not all deserts and yes we have trees. No, we don’t only own cowboy hats and boots (although, we all have them, hopefully). I kid you not, I have been asked all of these questions when I’m traveling and tell people that I’m from Texas.

Fixin’ To

No autocorrect, we don’t mean “fixing.” We mean “fixin.’” And that’s how Texans say “about to.”

“What are y’all fixin’ to do?” (A perfect Texan sentence.)

No, we’re not illiterate individuals.

Most of us are very well educated, thank you. That’s just how we talk, and maybe one day you’ll learn our language.

Road trip to another state?

Sure, but take at least five days off of work if you want to do anything besides drive, because it takes 12 hours just to get from El Paso to Texarkana. El Paso is closer to California than it is to Dallas. And if you’re coming from the southernmost parts? Hope you’re in it for the long haul!

Bluebonnets

Aside from being beautiful flowers, they brighten the sides of our roads all across the state in the spring time. It's also not rare to see a family parked on the side of the road posing their children in the bluebonnets for a quick photo sesh. It's actually really sweet, and eventually, you'll drive past with a smile on your face every time you see it. It's just a signature thing we do down here, and it makes you realize that you're in the best state known to man.

So, needless to say, these are just a few of the reasons that Texas is the best state ever. If you were blessed enough to be born and raised here, you probably won’t leave. And if you’re blessed enough to visit us, you probably won’t want to leave. It’s truly that special.