1. Hearing out-of-staters say they "love your accent"

2. You've definitely taken a family "vacation" to Six Flags

3. The Fourth of July is important for two reasons: Independence and corn

"Knee-high by the fourth of July"

4. You know that Chicago is the one that will make all of your state's political decisions

5. Drive Your Tractor to School Day is a thing that happens

6. Going to Chicago feels like going out-of-state

From the long drive to the complete change in scenery.

7. It's totally normal for your state to not have a budget

8. As a matter of fact, it's true when you say most of your politicians are crooks!

I mean, how many of our governors are in prison now?

9. When telling someone where you from, you use how far away it is from Chicago as a reference

"No...I'm like 4 hours south of Chicago...No, like not near Chicago at all."

10. It's either too hot outside to handle, or too cold and windy. There is no in-between

11. You have to go to Indiana to get the good fireworks

Who cares if it's allowed, we just care if they're pretty.

12. Your summers are very "orange"

A summer in Illinois means a lot of road construction. Everywhere.

13. Your school fixes roof leaks with trash cans

.

14. A lot of girls in your school definitely wore cowboy boots with their prom dress

15. As a matter of fact, boots, shorts, and a camo jacket aren't even questioned.

16. You know everything about Abe Lincoln

17. Some of the best movies have been filmed in your state

18. Potholes...Potholes, everywhere

Despite all the construction, there's always potholes on every road.

19. You're either a Cubs or Cardinals fan, and that will determine everything about you.

20. It's totally common to have multiple students missing on the first day of hunting season

21. You never pronounce the "s" at the end of Illinois

22. Love it or hate it, you can't deny that you have some of the most beautiful scenery

Illinois may not be perfect, but it's home.