Arizona, the Grand Canyon State, the only state where "it's a dry heat" is the unofficial motto, and the place all the snow birds migrate to in the winter. Arizona is much more than a desolate desert full of cowboys and rattlesnakes. In fact, it's not even that. Those who grew up in Arizona know the truth about Arizona and its many quirks. From scorpions to massive dust storms, Arizona has a lot to offer. Here are 10 signs you grew up in the driest state in America.
1. You know what a Haboob is.
Yeah, walls of dust coming right at you. These storms used to just be called dust storms or monsoons, but within the past few years we've coined the name "haboob." Silly name, but definitely not a joke.
2. You've been stung by a scorpion and lived.
It hurts, then it numbs, and then it gives you a great story to tell your friends at parties. You also know that the smaller the scorpion the more deadly. Arizonians have even gone so far as to put these critters in candy and paperweights for tourists.
3. 100 degree weather doesn't bother you.
100 degrees is a cool day in an Arizona summer. 114 degrees is the average. Yes, we stay inside a lot. We put sweaters on when it hits 85. *sigh*
4. You can easily identify a Saguaro cactus.
You know you're home when you start seeing these around. These lovely green succulents cause many a hiking accident. You know it's a saguaro because of its "arms."
5. You know the 5 C's.
Copper, Cattle, Citrus, Climate, and Cotton. If you went to elementary school in Arizona, you definitely know these. I bet there's a song to learn them too.
6. You've eaten rattlesnake.
Lots of restaurants in Arizona will have this on the menu. It's mostly for tourists, but admit it, you've been curious.
7. You've stopped hoping for a white Christmas.
Anytime it was even a bit cloudy on Christmas, the child in you wished for a little snow -- a Christmas miracle, if you will. While it does snow in northern Arizona, the majority of people who live in Phoenix have never had a white Christmas.
8. You have a swimming pool in your backyard.
Nearly all homes are built with a pool in the backyard. It's compensation for living in the hottest state in the USA.
9. You go to California often.
When all you have is desert, and the beach is a few hours drive, you're gonna go. Every time.
10. You eat a lot of Mexican food.
Most of an Arizonian's diet consists of tacos and refried beans. Take your pick of Mexican restaurants: Del Taco, Taco Bell, Filbertos, or any of the family-run authentic places.
All in all, Arizonians are a little quirky. But what state isn't?
