Born and raised in Ohio, I know all the in's and out's of this great-ish state. If you're with me, you probably know Ohio just as much as I do. Here it is:
1. You know phrases like "Miracle in CLE," "All In," or "Believeland."
Ever since our very own Cleveland Caveliers broke the 80 year curse, you can find thousands of t-shirts, hats and other gear repping the 2017 NBA Champions. If I came up to you and "Miracle in CLE," I can almost guarantee you would know what I am talking about even if you don't follow basketball.
2. You try to support the Browns but you know they are always going to lose.
I'm not even a personal fan of football, however, almost every family member, friend or relationship I have in my life: someone in their family tries SO hard to support the Browns.. But sometimes it's just too difficult.
3. You have a strong hatred towards Michigan.
Now I know this does not apply to all people from Ohio, however, I can say a vast majority of the population of Ohio scowls when they hear the word "Michigan."
4. You put emphasis on THE Ohio State University.
As someone who grew up with a father who is an alum and my brother who attended college at OSU, I can say that every time we have a big family reunion it takes about .2 seconds before THE Ohio State University is mentioned. Emphasis on the THE.
5. The 3 C's.
Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Three of the most poppin' cities in Ohio. 10/10 would recommend paying a visit to each city.
6. You know what cold weather truly feels like.
I almost put "you hate the winter," but I cannot fully say that everyone hates winter. Some people realize it's cold but still love winter. Basically, if you're from Ohio, you expect a cold winter and at least a foot of snow that will ruin all of your shoes and make getting places more difficult than it has to be.
7. You always get excited when a big name celebrity is performing in a city near you.
Because why would Beyonce want to travel all the way to Ohio to perform?
8. Cedar Point is the hot summer spot.
King's Island was another top contender, however, Ohioans are known for our Cedar Point summer adventures. Look on your friend's Instagrams, I can guarantee 9/10 of your friends will have pictures of themselves at Cedar Point.
9. You know what "buckeye" candy is.
As someone who has a friend from Michigan, I can tell you that she had no idea that we called peanut butter and chocolate candies: Buckeyes.
10. You feel obligated to respond "I-O" when someone yells "O-H."
It's a tradition to yell this when you're walking past fellow Ohioans along with taking the classic O-H-I-O picture with your arms.
If you're from Ohio: you probably have a love/hate relationship with it. And it's understandable. It's Ohio after all.
