In a few weeks when I fly back to the East Coast from Detroit, I know I will have to adjust back to life in New England. For the last month I stayed in Michigan with my family over the holiday break, and other than constantly mixing up "soda" and "pop," I was able to fall back into my habitual ways.
However, I will never fail to express my Michigander pride to my Mainer friends.
1. We show where we're from with our hands
Oh, you're from Detroit? I'm from Lansing! *holds up hand and points*
2. You know someone who hates foreign cars
Detroit is known as the Car Capital of the World, and odds are that you know someone who sneers every time they see a foreign car. I know I do!
3. You know what a Michigan Left Turn is
This is something I have only seen in Michigan! It's hard to explain, but we essentially turn around using U-turns instead of at an intersection. My hometown has several of these and I often am confused with how to turn around in other states.
4. Meijer
Founded in Michigan, Meijer is a wonderful store for all of one's shopping needs. There are a little over 200 locations, and over half of them are in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. A few other locations are scattered across the Midwest, but it is concentrated in Michigan. I'd say Meijer is comparable to New England's Hannaford market.
5. We know how to say (and spell) Mackinac
Mackinac is NOT pronounced "Mack-in-ACK." It is "Mack-in-AW."
6. You know what a Troll, Yooper, and Fudgie is
Trolls live in the Lower Peninsula below the Mackinac Bridge. Yoopers live in the Upper Peninsula or the "UP." Fudgies are pretty much everyone else because Michiganders love their fudge.
7. We have two seasons
The two seasons are winter and construction season. Our "spring flowers" are orange construction cones! Not to mention that winter is great because the snow fills up the many potholes infecting the roads!
8. Your sports affiliation
The rivalry between Michigan State and University of Michigan football is real. But one thing is for sure: both teams support each other when up against Ohio.
9. You love Superman ice cream
It's the best tasting ice cream, and originated in Michigan. It's traditionally blue, red, and yellow. I have yet to see it offered in New England.
10. Weird weather
The Great Lakes really funk with the weather. It can either bump weather away from the state, or trap it inside. We've had mornings where it snows, and by the evening it's all gone!
