Being away from home was definitely something I had to get used to. I never thought that the cultures of two cities from the same state could be so different. Even though I’ve made Austin into a second home, I will always be partial to my H-Town. In addition to my family and my friends that are my support group being from Houston, there are other reasons that I’m proud to be from Space City.

1. The “Be Someone” graffiti is a daily inspiration.

It makes the morning commute bearable and it makes you want to be your own person.

2. The Texans, The Rockets.

JJ Watt, Toro, Clutch and James Harden will always have a special place in the hearts of Houstonians.

3. Celebrities.

Queen Bey, Hilary Duff, Jim Parsons… the list of talent that comes out of Houston is endless. When they talk about Houston, you can’t help but glow with pride.

4. Feeders and Exits Galore.

You don’t know how convenient these are until they’re gone. Seriously, it's annoying having to do so many U-Turns.

5. Terminology.

Believe it or not, people don’t know what “feeder” is, or “the loop” or even “59” and “45.” But you, my fellow Houstonian, do and for that I appreciate you.

6. Art Culture.

Whether it’s the Menil Museum, the MFAH, the Sculpture Garden or even the random, creative graffiti found all over town, Houston has art that you can appreciate.

7. The University of Houston.

Yeah, I don’t go there. However, it’s a great school with a great football team and Houston is painted red during football season. Whose house?

8. Food.

It doesn’t matter what you want. We have Vietnamese, Chinese (that won’t upset your stomach), Indian (same goes for this one), Mexican (Ninfas on Navigation or Del-Sol on 45), Tex-Mex (there is a difference), weird food (like spaghetti inside and sandwich roll), Italian—you name it, we got it!

9. Raspas.

The Mexican snow cone is a Godsend during the plethora of hot and humid summer days. Luckily, you can find these stands almost anywhere and you can even order yourself a gordita for lunch if you so please.

10. Hand sign.

Throw this lil’ baby up and everyone knows who you rep.

11. Rodeo.

Suddenly, even the most urban, city folk become Western. The culture is alive the entire rodeo season where we have chili cook-offs, art competitions, a carnival and fried everything.

12. Galveston.

Houstonians have a love/hate relationship with Galveston. Despite this, the Sea Wall is the scene of many childhood memories and its beaches are perfect for a day trip. Also, Pleasure Pier at night is really pretty.

13. NASA

Being a headquarter for space studies is always a bragging right. The Space Center is a must-go for all Houstonians.

There are many more reasons to be a proud Houstonian and these are just some. They are unique to each inhabitant just as each inhabitant is unique. I love you so much, my Clutch City and I’ll be home before you know it.