Maryland is a unique and wonderful state. I've lived here my entire life whether it's been on the eastern or western shore. However, whenever one of my friends from another state asks about Maryland, there are a few things that are a little, let's just say wrong. With all the love for my state, I thought I should set all records straight.
1. Maryland is a southern state.
Yes, this is true. Maryland is considered a southern state because it falls under the Mason-Dixon line. A lot of the southern states don't recognize Maryland as southern but it is without a doubt especially if you grow up in rural parts of Maryland in places like Caroline or Queen Anne's county.
2. No, the shores are not the same.
The western and eastern shores are two very different sides of Maryland but everyone loves them the same more or less. If you're looking for an easy going, relaxed area than the eastern shore is the place to be. If you're looking for adventure than the western shore has everything you'll want to see including our beautiful capital Annapolis.
3. Yes, we really do love our state flag.
In Maryland, if you don't own something with the flag's colors do you really love Maryland? We take great pride in our flag and love to show it off in any way we can whether it's stickers from shorelifeco.com (one of my favorites) or having flags hung up in our rooms. My high school (Saints Peter and Paul) even had a Maryland Pride day for spirit week and you can bet every single student dressed up for that day.
4. We always chant "oh!" during the national anthem at an Orioles game.
We mean no disrespect when we do this, it's just a Maryland thing. Someone recently did it this past summer when Michael Phelps won gold at the Rio Olympics. During the anthem, someone screamed "oh!" and Phelps couldn't help but smile and crack a laugh.
5. Maryland actually has plenty of great people.
A lot of people don't realize that bands like All Time Low and The Brothers Osborne came from Maryland. There is also Michael Phelps as well as Katie Ledecky who swam so incredibly well at the Rio Olympics. Joan Jett moved to Rockville where she grew up and here's another fun fact for you, Jay-Z was in Cambridge when someone tried to shoot him.
And so Maryland, the great state that most people are confused by, is actually one of the coolest states out there. If you've ever wanted to visit, don't hesitate there's so much to see!
