1. The word 'snow' pops up in the forecast, and the city shuts down
.25 inches of snow and the city is out of eggs, milk, and bread. This was no issue for us in high school. Who doesn’t love three snow days in a row?
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2. 'Grit-n-Grind' is a usual statement
This phrase is not just a saying, but a way of life. Are you really from Memphis if you don’t use your Growl Towel as a dishrag?
3. People assume your favorite barbeque is from Rendezvous
I think there are enough barbeque restaurants in Memphis to eat at every night for a month or more. There is never a shortage of pork, that is for sure!
4. You know Memphis Water is the best water
The aquifers we have been given are the fount from which all blessings flow. No need for
5. You don't actually go to Beale Street
Beale Street is really just for the tourists. Overton Square is where it’s at. From Babalu to Belly Acres, you really just can’t go wrong.
6. You actually live thirty minutes from Memphis
“I’m from Memphis” is really all relative. Are you actually from Germantown, Collierville, Bartlett, Arlington, Lakeland? The world may never know.
7. You avoid Poplar Avenue in East Memphis at all costs
You know I’m right. Those lanes were made for my Barbie Jeep I drove when I was five. One plus is that the lights usually go fast, and if you’re in traffic just take a quick detour on Mendenhall and grab a Gibson’s Donut. Mmm… yum.
8. You grew up going to Grizzlies games and concerts at the Pyramid
You know you are a true Grizz fan when you attended their games in the Pyramid when they needed a learning curve (We still love you, Shane Battier). But hey, at least now you can actually spot a real grizzly there. Thanks, Bass Pro.
9. Your one trip to Graceland was a forced field trip
You waited forever for your turn in fifth grade when you took that field trip with your best buddies to Elvis’ mansion. It may seem kind of weird to outsiders, and frankly, it kind of is to us insiders, too.
10. You know everyone lives ‘right off of Poplar’
If you really want to confuse your out of town guests just tell them you live ‘right off Poplar'... like everyone else in the entire city.
11. You drive thirty minutes for a snow cone
And boy, is that snow cone the best thing you have ever tasted in your life?! After mastering the art of going to Jerry’s Sno Cones, you know exactly what time of day the lines get long, the exact amount of cash you need, and the best flavor combo’s. Make it a supreme, please!
12. You know only you are allowed to bash it
After leaving Memphis for school, I started to appreciate all of it -- the good and the bad. So what if we are the second most dangerous city in the U.S.? At least we have some world famous chicken! I’m talking about you, Gus’s!
Overall, you love being from Memphis. It is a place full of soul, food, and history. Deep deep down you know it is definitely underrated. If you are from Memphis (or 30 minutes away), don't take for granted the culture in which you live. Get out there and experience it!
