Recently, I had the chance to explore New York City, San Francisco, and Ensenada. Each place had its own unique charm, but no matter where I wander, my heart always leads me back to the Midwest. There’s something truly special about growing up and aging in this region. Do you feel the same way? Here’s how you can tell if you might be a Midwesterner:
- You find yourself praying for rain to nourish the crops, then switch gears and pray for it to stop so the farmers can get back to work.
- You hear about hurricanes and earthquakes and think they sound terrifying, but when that tornado siren blares, you grab your favorite spot on the porch to watch the storm unfold.
- You’ve spent more time navigating gravel roads than smooth highways.
- You’ve patiently waited in a long line behind a combine on the road.
- You learned to operate a tractor long before you ever got behind the wheel of a car.
- You know the specific months for harvesting wheat, corn, and soybeans, along with when everyone is hauling hay.
- You’re familiar with the unmistakable scent of a feedlot.
- You’ve noticed that all the guys sport ball caps while the girls often have windswept hair.
- Catfish is a staple on most restaurant menus, and it’s not unusual to see frog legs listed as well.
- When relatives visit from afar, you introduce them to the art of cow tipping or snipe hunting.
- You can buy fish bait right next to sandwiches at the local convenience store.
- In the summer, there’s a pickup truck on nearly every corner selling fresh veggies or melons from the tailgate.
- Dressing up means putting on your least faded jeans, a button-up shirt, and giving your boots a good polish.
- You’ve slowed down your car to avoid hitting wildlife, whether it’s a turtle, snake, or even a cow.
- Your yard features a tire swing and a half-finished treehouse.
- You spent your childhood swimming in a pond or creek.
- You’ve had to scrape cow manure off your boots after a long day.
- You know exactly what mountain oysters are.
- The local veterinarian is saved in your contacts, and he knows your name and where you live just by hearing it.
- You’re well-versed in which side of a horse to mount and how to properly cinch a saddle.
- You’ve played in a hayloft, gathered fresh eggs, or had a run-in with an overzealous rooster.
- You’ve worked a pump handle and savored the taste of well water.
If any of this resonates with you, then you just might have Midwestern roots!
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Summary:
The Midwest is a unique and cherished region where the simple joys of life shape its culture. From praying for rain to navigating gravel roads, the experiences that define Midwesterners are heartwarming and relatable. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or have fond memories of visiting, you can likely find a piece of yourself in these charming traits.