Small town, southern United States. If you grew up in it, you probably have a few strong opinions and vivid memories of the experience. From sweltering summers spent swimming in murky pond water to covering your shoes with plastic grocery bags to play in the occasional snow, there are some things that are uniquely southern and, arguably, uniquely small town.

Maybe it's not where you plan to spend the rest of your life, but those of us who claim roots in a small, southern town can all agree that it sure is nice knowing we'll always have a place to come back to.

Here are 10 things you'll understand if you're from "small town USA."

1. Everyone knows everyone

You learned to deal with a lack of privacy at a young age.

2. Probably because they're related

While this is problematic on many levels, the situation also has its perks...

3. Landmarks are the only proper way to give directions

Trees, barns, gas stations, and cow pastures. They're all fair game.

4. There's a church on every corner

And by "every corner" I mean the only three in your tiny, one-stoplight town. Oh. And they're probably all Baptist.

5. Anything other than a trip to Dollar General means "going to town"

They sure are an eyesore, but at least now you don't have to drive 30 minutes to the nearest Wal-Mart for bread and milk when snow flurries strike. The convenience is unmatched.

6. You know the backroads "safe" for speeding

You've memorized exactly which dirt road or patch of trees the same cop car is always sitting at. This was especially useful knowledge when trying to make it to school on time.

7. Ponds double as swimming pools

It was like a fun little guessing game of "Holy crap. What's touching my foot this time?!" Ha. So fun.

8. People constantly ask what you did for fun growing up

While I pretend I'm not offended, please refer to number nine on this list...

9. Parking lot parties are totally a thing

You know you envy this childhood.

10. No one ever recognizes the name of your hometown

It takes a schematic and name dropping, at least, two of the largest neighboring cities. But that's OK because it means you have an excuse to brag a little about the place you grew up.