New Jersey. The little state on the east coast that was made a mockery out of from the infamous MTV reality show. But hey, we all have our flaws. Good, bad and the ugly, I have to say, it’s a great place to live. New Jersey is where it’s at, peeps. So what exactly are some signs you hail from the Garden State?
1. You say “cawfee," “dawg,” etc.
It’s in our blood. What can I say? We can’t help it, OK? Pipe down, Sally. You say "water" weird. We’re even, OK?
2. It’s pork roll.
End of story. This debate needs to end. It is NOT Taylor Ham. Yes, that may be a brand, but it is not the product. It is not. I repeat, not. Pork roll for the win. I may add, Jersey bagels, egg, cheese and pork roll are on point.
3. We have beaches usually within 10 minutes of us.
Yes, I said beach. Even if you’re from up north, please DO NOT say, “We’re going down to the shore." Spare us. Please. It’s the beach. Yes, it’s the “Jersey Shore," but that connotation has changed over the years. No longer is it the sandy beaches and shore towns, but rather tan bodies and fist pumping (we’re not all like that).
4. Wawa is life.
How do people not have Wawa runs?! They are literally the best slice of heaven our area has to offer. People on the west coast have never had a Wawa run. I’m sorry. I truly am. You’ve never had the pleasure of getting your late-night snack fix at the place none other than Wawa.
5. There is North, South and Central Jersey.
Can we leave this debate for another day (or never!). There is a distinction, believe me.
6. It is not a hoagie. It’s a sub, people.
We do have differing opinions, but it’s OK because we’re from the best state.
7. We may have obnoxious pride, but it’s our thing.
We have beaches, casinos, waterfalls, huge malls, diners dotting the roadways, the best pizza and bagels and Wawa. What else could you dream of? OK, maybe I’m over exaggerating, but still.
8. Oh, right—diners.
There are places that literally have one or two around. But here, they dot the streets like ants chasing watermelon juice on a picnic blanket. Whether you want a late-night breakfast, disco fries or waffles and ice cream, the diner is the place to go.
9. It is true bagels and pizza are not the same in other places.
Granted, New York is our identical twin in this department. However, let’s be real. Have you ever had a decent slice of pizza or a good bagel in Florida? Didn’t think so.
10. Bennys are no fun.
Especially if you work near the beach, those tourists stick out like sore thumbs. They can’t drive, and they act like they know it all. You’re on our turf. We appreciate your patronage (do we?), but please go home.
I mean really, what else could you say about our home state? It’s the best, I know. The people here are pretty great too (not that I’m biased).
