Over the years, I've learned that Michigan is a very unique place. As time passed and as I got older, I learned to appreciate this state more, as it is a very beautiful area. If you want to visit a historically rich city, Detroit is calling your name. If you want to lay on beautiful beaches, take your pick, we have the wonderful Great Lakes to chose from. If you want to spend a day screaming during the ups and downs of roller coasters, take a trip to Michigan's Adventure Park! Michigan is full of exciting places to see, and has many exciting things to do, but here are some things only true Michiganders will understand:
1. Using your hand as a map
What other state can use their hands to show directions, and to tell others where they're from? Not only can your hand show the Lower Peninsula, but you can show the upper peninsula, as well. We are also used to getting weird looks whenever we show out of state people where we live on our hands; it's not our fault our state is shaped perfectly.
2. Going on Vacation is often "Up North"
Summer vacations consist of going to the more northern parts of Michigan. Petosky, Charlevoix, Mackinac (for all you out-of-towners it's pronounced MAK-IN-NAW), and Traverse City are our getaways. Each place is unique, scenic, and full of life. Here, you can enjoy the sun, the beaches, the shopping, boating, and more. Where do we escape to during the winter? Well, that's what Florida is for.
3. Vernors ginger ale can cure anything
Stomach ache? Drink some Vernors! Throat ache? Reach for the Vernors. Who needs traditional medicine? Not us! We don't know why, but oddly enough, a glass of Vernors usually helps you feel better!
4. Michigan lefts and never-ending construction season
Drivers that aren't used to driving here are going to be surprised by this weird thing called a Michigan left turn. To add even more confusion and chaos, due to the weather conditions, the roads in Michigan are always under construction and full of potholes, yikes!
5. Are you Michigan or Michigan State?
The biggest rivals here are the ones within our own state. You either side with Michigan or Michigan State, and you can't be caught dead wearing maize and blue anywhere near the capitol of Michigan. The only thing we all agree on here is how much we all hate Ohio State.
6. You can experience multiple seasons within one day
You have to pack your winter coat, your umbrella, and a tank top every time you step outside of the house. The weather changes on an hourly basis, and you can never trust the weather report. One second it can be sunny and 70 degrees, and 2 hours later, it'll be rainy and 40 degrees!
If you're lucky enough to be born and raised in the mitten, well then you're lucky enough.
