Ohio is an unique state to be raised in, from the activities, to the food, to the weather. Growing up here has it's perks that non-Ohioans just don't seem to understand.
1. Learning how to deal with all types of weather in one week.
You've learned to keep a winter coat, an umbrella, and a tank top on stand by.
2. Singing "Hang on, Snoopy" but then realizing it's actually Sloopy, not Snoopy.
Try and explain to a five year old the difference. You will lose that argument.
3. Yelling O-H-I-O in school. All the time.
If your friends and you don't constantly chant this out to each other, are you really friends?
4. Getting extremely competitive in the stands
It doesn't matter what sport, team, or division. We defend and cheer on our athletes with our pure Ohio pride. We go all out whether it be for little league, high school, or college. I mean, obviously. We still cheer for the Browns.
5. Hearing others talk about how great snow is
Oh, I'm sure that inch of snow down in Tennessee is just so beautiful. But guess what? We don't get just one inch. Sometimes, not even just one foot. And no, it isn't fun or amazing. It's wet, cold sadness.
6. Enjoying meals at Ohio specialties, like Skyline Chili and Rocknee's
It isn't truly an Ohio meal if it isn't smothered in chili. Even spaghetti.
6. Just a short drive away from anything
Growing up in Ohio means getting used to have many amazing locations all at your disposal. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The Football Hall of Fame, and The Columbus Zoo just to name a few. I'm sure you visited a few of these great places on field trips in school. And CEDAR POINT!
7. Got Corn?
Yes, we use corn for everything. And if you don't visit a corn maze every year, we can't be friends. It's a tradition every fall to get lost in a maze and eating corn on the cob.
8. CORNHOLE!
Wait... you mean people in your state don't throw sewn bags of corn at wooden boxes trying to make it in the hole? Ahh, corn hole: the traditional Ohioan activity. Usually accompanied for a cookout with great food, cold drinks, and lifelong memories.
9. Venturing into the Great Outdoors
Whether it be the Cleveland Metroparks, or Brandywine Falls in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, we have beautiful natural landscapes in Ohio. It's the perfect place to go explore on an adventure as a child.
10. Family comes first
Being in the midwest gives the new generation the perfect balance of Northern knowledge and Southern hospitality. We are taught to value the bonds we establish with our friends and family. How would you enjoy all of these amazing things Ohio has to offer without sharing the experience?
Many of us claim to hate Ohio, and say we can't wait to leave. But Ohio is an amazing state and I am so blessed to have lived the first eighteen years of my life here.
