Iowa, the Midwest state that is either completely forgotten, or misplaced by so many on blank maps. It’s the sad truth, but as an Iowan I’m okay with that; Iowa is great and we know it and don’t have to brag. But for those outside the Iowan borders you might not know or understand what it means to be an Iowan. There are many traits to being an Iowan; to summarize it quickly and simply I made this convenient list to help educate you, or let others relate to the experiences of growing up in Iowa (because in Iowa we’re nice like that).

1. Iowa Nice

It IS a thing! Iowans are incredibly nice! It is very common to wave or say hi to strangers, have genuine conversations with your cashier at the grocery store and hold doors open for others. Yeah, we try to be nice but in the end it’s just the nice and right thing to do.

2. House Divided

Yeah, we’re all really nice… until football season. Cyclone and Hawkeye fans have been known to butt heads. Even if you don’t watch sports you still have to pick a side; people will ask you and they will judge based on your choice, so choose wisely. Along with choosing a side as an Iowan, you never miss the big Cy-Hawk game!

3. You've been going to the Iowa State Fair since you were born

Iowans never miss the Cy-Hawk game and they never miss the state fair. It’s one of the best ranked state fairs in the country! People come from all over to enjoy the new foods on a stick, attractions and vendors. If you come to the fair though be prepared to lose weight in your wallet and collect it on yourself, because deep fried Oreos, ice cream and butter are all a thing here… hello type two diabetes!

4. You've made a special trip to Des Moines just to eat at Zombie Burger

Iowans like their food, they like it deep fried and they like it zombified! Zombie Burger has hands down the strangest and most delicious burgers in Des Moines! You can order a traditional burger and be boring, or try out something like The Walking Ched. It’s a breaded deep fried macaroni bun with cheese, bacon, onion and mayo, oh and the burger. There’s so many new options to try, and you’ll feel like a zombie as you walk out after eating that huge monster!

5. You get really excited to play corn hole

This game is available at any outside event. The Fourth of July, graduations or backyard grilling, bag toss will be there. See what I did there? The game has many names such as corn hole, bag toss or bags. People like to hold on strong about what they call the game, but either way it’s the best family outdoor game around. Chances are also that it is decked out in your favorite sports team colors.

6. You’ve know how to shuck corn since you were two-years-old.

Summer brings corn, every year. By now you’ve probably consumed more corn than the average American, but still get excited for corn season each year. And yes, there is a such thing as a corn festival.

7. You know what Scotcheroos are and that puppy chow is not for dogs

Scotcheroos are pure heaven! They are by far one of the best desserts your grandma can make… and I said one because let’s be honest, all grandmas cooking is great! What is also great is puppy chow! People outside of Iowa might look at you strange if you ask them to eat puppy chow, but you clever Iowans know it’s one of the most addictive and delicious munchy snacks out there!

8. You’ve been to farmers markets, more than once

Farmers markets are everywhere and the one and only place to get the best tasting produce. Plus it feels great to help support local farmers.

9. You are used to seeing and hearing about politics everywhere

We are the first state in the national caucuses and always in the eyes of national television during that time… and throughout the race. We've become used to countless politicians visiting and speeches. So when other states complain about the political season it’s an understatement to the political year in Iowa.

10. You’re prepared for 30 degree below weather

Iowa can get pretty chilly in the long winter season. Many times it drops below zero and more, so we are always prepared with shovels, blankets and cat little in our car trunks. Yes, we use cat litter. No, we don’t drive around with chains on our tires. Even if it’s in the negatives and multiple feet of snow, we’re still expected to attend school and work.

Iowa is a great place to live with so many opportunities! There is so much to talk about. If I missed anything talk about it in the comments below about your beloved Iowan traditions! If you’re not from Iowa I hope this list helps inspire you to want to travel to this amazing state! Have a great day! #IowaNice