It's not a big city, but it's not a small town. It's not well known, but it's not unheard of. It's Brookfield, Wisconsin, and myself and about 6,390 other people call it home. Here are some things that people from Brookfield can relate to:
1. You've heard the term "Brookfield Bubble" before...
...and quite honestly, you're not sure how you feel about it. Sometimes Brookfield feels a bit closed off from the rest of the world, but you always miss it when you're away.
2. You are extremely grateful to have attended (or still be attending) Brookfield schools.
Whether you were a part of the Elmbrook School District or went to a private school like Brookfield Academy, there's absolutely no doubt that you received a second-to-none education.
3. You don't have to look very hard before you spot someone wearing Birkenstocks or Sperrys.
Brand names are very prevalent in Brookfield, and trends spread like wildfire. As pictured above, the infamous "Socks and Sperrys" trend is one of those. Also, an outsider has probably questioned your Birkenstocks, asking why you're wearing "Jesus shoes."
4. Some people assume your family lives in a huge house when you tell them you're from Brookfield.
Brookfield is home to some pretty breathtaking neighborhoods (that are fun to drive around and gawk at, in my opinion). But of course that doesn't mean that everyone lives in them.
5. You feel incredibly lucky that Brookfield is so close to Downtown Milwaukee.
Downtown Milwaukee is close, but not too close. After a long day of Summerfest or hanging out at Bradford Beach, you get to make the short commute back home to cozy suburbia.
6. You freaked out when you heard a Portillo's was coming to Brookfield.
You were so happy that Brookfield, of all places, was chosen for the iconic restaurant's first Wisconsin location. You're aware that it will be insanely crowded until the end of time, but you'll be a regular customer there anyways.
7. The construction overwhelms you, but you're excited for the three (!) new shopping centers.
Three new developments, "The Corners,""The Corridor," and "Calhoun Crossing" are currently being constructed in Brookfield. You're especially excited for "The Corners," which will be home to an Anthropologie, a Sendik's, and a Cafe Benelux, just to name a few.
8. As a kid without a driver's license, the coolest thing to do was bike to Ruby Isle.
Then you'd go to Walgreens and buy a few cans of Monster, or maybe just stroll around Pick 'n' Save. There was something so appealing about doing this.
9. You have a very strong appreciation for summer months, and it shows.
Winters are pretty brutal all around Wisconsin. Warm weather is such a relief after three (or sometimes four) long months of freezing cold weather. Because of this excitement, it's not uncommon to see the people of Brookfield sporting shorts and t-shirts in 45 degree weather.
10. Even if you leave for college or move away, Brookfield will always be your home.
Maybe you made your first friend at Brookfield Elementary on the first day of kindergarten, played your first game of T-Ball at Wisconsin Hills, and went on your first date at Yo Mama. You've made so many memories in Brookfield, and you'll always be welcomed back with open arms.
Note: The article has been edited since the publish date.
