Growing up in a small town outside of Philadelphia my whole life meant growing use to the way of life around here. The Wawa runs and midnight diners are what we do. It's not until I left to go to college that I realized how much I missed my little New Jersey town. So here are the struggles of a New Jers-adelphian who moved away.
1. "Yeah, it's right outside of Philly."
The first question I always get when meeting a new person at Niagara University is, "Where are you from?" At first I would say "I'm from Riverside, New Jersey." That never got me very far. It turns out people in Upstate New York don't recognize my tiny square-mile town. I've learned that the huge city right across the bridge is a much more recognizable place, so my hometown is now just referred to as the town "right outside of Philly."
2. That moment when you find another Philly sports fan.
If there is one thing we take pride in around here, then it's our sports teams. Even though the Philly fanbase might be known for some of our lower moments (throwing snowballs at Santa, etc.) there is a definite bond between our fellow Eagles, Flyers, Philles and 76ers fans.
3. C.S.A (Cheesesteak separation anxiety)
Yes our sports fandom may get to extreme levels at times, but nothing infuriates me more than looking at a menu and seeing the "Philly Cheesesteak." Trying to emulate the Philly cheesesteak is like thinking the new "Star Wars" movie will be as good as the originals. It's just not going to happen. Oh yeah, and don't tell me you had a cheesesteak at Pat's or Geno's the one time you were here so you know what I'm talking about. In reality, you just labeled yourself as a Philly tourist. Take a midnight ride to Tony Luke's or Joe's and then maybe we can talk.
4. Going down the shore.
Now this one confuses those who don't understand. No matter your geographical location, I don't care if you are at the South Pole, if you are going to a beach in New Jersey you are going down the shore. And on the topic of shores, even though we all have our favorite beaches, Wildwood is always the place you want to be for vacation.
5. The "Jersey accent."
I never knew I even had an accent until I moved away. I mean who knew you didn't pronounce water like "wooder." Especially the first time I said the word "Jawn." It may not be in the dictionary, but incase you were wondering, Jawn means really anything you want it to mean. Also there is a distinct difference between a sub and a hoagie that people just don't understand. Lastly, you guys really need to learn what a pork roll is. I promise it will change your life.
