As an East Tennessee native who moved to Middle Tennessee for college, there are many things different for me lately.

I miss several aspects of my hometown immensely, but know that I’m much better off where I am now at APSU.

Going back to my roots, here is a list I’ve compiled of ten truths all Johnson City dwellers share.

1. Your Southern accent is a different Southern accent than literally every other Southern place ever, and therefore you will get countless questions about either your hometown or your legitimacy as a member of the South.

I get it, you’re from Texas. This does not in any way denounce my own Southern-ness. Excuse my ability to say words with a little twang without adding 15 extra syllables in the process.

2. El Kroger is the best Mexican restaurant around.

Does it have a real name? Absolutely. Does anyone actually use it? Heck no.

3. The question “Why does your city have the word ‘city’ in its name?” is a more common occurrence than you’d think.

I don’t know, Brenda; why does your minivan have seventeen Jesus stickers on the back if you’re a complete jerk?

4. Sunsets without the mountains as a backdrop aren’t actually sunsets.

And not just any mountains, THE mountains.

5. What a Hilltopper actually is might possibly be the biggest mystery in the county.

Is it human? Creature? Humanoid? Wearing the same hat multiple days in a row? The world may never know.

6. You’ve described your hometown using the words “Wagon Wheel” in a serious manner.

No matter how overplayed the song is, you simply cannot hate it, and you insist on screaming out those key lyrics every time you hear them.

7. There is deep-seeded passion behind the hatred you bestow upon the forbidden-named school half an hour down the road.

BURN ‘EM. BURN ‘EM.

8. No one wants to stay, but everyone misses it when they leave, whether it be for college, personal choice, or other.

And everyone wants to know why you’re moving away, even though they’ve strongly considered doing the same multiple times.

9. Everyone is either a VOLS fan or incorrect, nothing in between.

Bonus points if you’re a BAMA fan or even worse, a GATOR. *shudders*

10. Pal’s is, was, and will forever be the best drive through restaurant chain. Period.

What would we do without Big Pals and Peachy Teas? Or better yet: cheddar rounds? Starve, not attend classes, et cetera.