After meeting people from other places and coming to the realization that no one knows what to expect about Iowa, I thought it would be good to give people a new perspective. From being asked questions about where they can find the best potato or confusion on why there aren't farms everywhere, I think it's time that out-of-staters get a sense from an Iowan native herself.

1. We grow corn.

"Where are the potatoes?" is a common thing I got asked this year. Somehow the confusion between Idaho and Iowa is too great. For the record, this is a corn growing state, and a damn good one at that.

2. Yes, we actually are this friendly....all the time.

That friendly wave or helpful hint wasn't just a one time thing. We are friendly people always willing to give a hand or talk to you just about anything. You won't find mean stares or unfriendly folks here.

3. There actually are suburban areas.

Despite the popular belief that Iowa is only home to farms, and farms everywhere, there are places where suburban life has grown. So don't be shocked when you enter into the city of Des Moines, and don't see corn for miles.

4. Yes we do have a cow made of butter.

It's true, we do have a cow made of butter. You can find this strange, one-of-a-kind sculpture at no other place than the Iowa State Fair itself. And beyond that you will find a double ferris wheel, corn dogs on a stick, and other things that only Iowa has to offer.

5. We have princesses.

Since the 1960s, the Iowa Pork Producers Association has been crowning Pork Princesses' during the Iowa Pork Congress held in Des Moines. These women work at the Iowa State Fair, World Pork Expo, and other events.

6. Is This Heaven?

No, it's Iowa. But we sure like to think that this is the greatest place on Earth. This saying comes from the legendary movie "Field of Dreams," which was filmed in Iowa near Dyersville.