If you’ve ever lived in the Midwest, you know there are just some things that are unique to the country’s friendliest region. Between the people, the food and the experiences, the Midwest is one of the best places to grow up and spend time.

1. Scotcheroos

There’s no way to describe this heavenly treat. Usually found at potlucks and most gatherings where food is involved, the chocolatey goodness and peanut-butter-coated Rice Krispies are as close as you can get to heaven.

2. Puppy chow

Along with the theme of food, I can never believe it when someone tells me they haven’t had puppy chow! More peanut butter and chocolate (yum!) coated with powdered sugar…what’s not to love?

3. Smiles

The Midwest is known for having some of the friendliest people. There’s nothing odd about exchanging a friendly wave or smile as you walk down the street, or striking up a conversation any ol' time.

4. Weather

40 degrees is perfectly acceptable shorts weather, especially after being frozen for four or five months a year.

5. What's this called?

Most people from the Midwest will tell you that carbonated sugary drinks are called “pop,” not “soda.” We will defend it to our last dying breath.

6. Swimming holes

If you have a perfectly good lake, why go to a swimming pool? Summers are spent boating, skiing, tubing and lounging at the lake.

7. Summer fairs

The highlight of the summer is going to the county or state fair. It’s the scene seen in old feel-good movies. Head out with your friends to the fair, gorge yourself on cotton candy and spend your summer night basking in the freedom from school.

8. Cornhole

Cornhole is one of the greatest lawn games ever created. Picnics are spent playing it in fierce competition.

9. Sports

Sports are a big deal in the Midwest. Whether you’re cheering on your hometown high school team or your favorite college team, sports are a central part of Midwest life.

10. The sights

The farmland stretches on for miles and it’s all green. Nothing can beat the scenery the Midwest has.