We all have our hometowns. Growing up there doesn't seem anything out of the ordinary until you venture to college or to the real world or even if you travel out of town. Now, everyone seems to know something about your hometown you were not even aware of. But, if you're like me, you were born and raised in Waco. Yes, that town in between Austin and Dallas -- that one.

So, below are five lines people may say to you if you are from Waco:

1. "Do you know Chip and Joanna Gaines from 'FixerUpper?'"

Every time I tell someone I'm from Waco, it's like a light bulb immediately goes off in their head, and that lightbulb screams "FixerUpper." No, I'm not tight with Chip and Joanna. As much as I wish I hung out with them on a regular basis, I don't. If watching their show 24/7 counts as hanging out with them, then yes. Chip, Joanna, and I are practically besties.

2. "Why didn't you go to Baylor?" or "Do you go to Baylor?"

Yes, Waco is notorious for its small private college, Baylor University. If you are from Waco and you don't attend this college, people do and will question as to why you did not choose Baylor. As beautiful as the campus is, and as wonderful as the programs are, being so close to home is not for everyone.

3. "Is Waco dangerous? I've heard there's crime."

Just as in any city, Waco has seen its fair share of crime. And, for those who do not live in Waco, that becomes the definition. So, to those afraid of Waco -- don't be. Just as Guns 'N' Roses once sang, "Every rose has its thorns." Every great city has its bit of crime and chaos.

4. "Isn't Waco just homeless people?"

This one is funny to me. Like crime, every city has homeless people. But, the good thing about Waco are the programs that assist those in need. For example, Compassion Ministries is a social services organization that assists those in need whilst ministering to those same individuals. Mission Waco brings the gospel, clothes, food, and sometimes even shelter to people in need as well. These are just two of the many programs Waco has founded and continues to outstretch open arms and love to those less fortunate. Homeless people are people too, and Waco recognizes that.

5. "Were you a part of The Branch Davidian?" or "Did you know David Koresh?"

Various people know of Waco for the cult originated by David Koresh several years ago. However, what many people are unaware of is the fact that this did not actually occur within the city limits of Waco. It happened outside of Waco. Fun fact: this cult was started closer to our former president George W. Bush's home in Crawford, Tex. than the city of Waco. So, you don't have to affiliate Waco with "that cult" anymore.

As many silly things that Waco is remembered for and as wack as the wacko might seem to others, it's my hometown. I would claim it any day.