MJP –
The “Show-Me State” moniker belies the fact that life in Missouri is defined by barbecue, erratic weather, and an eternal rivalry, as any true Missourian can attest.
Being from Missouri has its peculiarities and customs, whether you’re floating down a river or arguing about the proper name for that carbonated beverage. Is any of this list of 18 symptoms familiar to you?
Someone has asked you to correct their pronunciation of “Missouri.”
Either “Missour-ee” or “Missour-uh” will do; the hill will be your grave regardless of your side.
A float, a cooler, and a tan are yours to show for your day on the Current, Meramec, or Gasconade.
All four seasons were there in a single day for you.
The weather in Missouri is unpredictable, going from cold in the morning to hot by noon, but you’re always ready.
If you’re from Kansas City, you know that barbecue is a religion.
It isn’t right unless it’s slow-cooked, saucy, and falls off the bone.
You are familiar with the term “Show-Me” and its meaning.
“Missourians don’t believe it until they see it” is a mantra that you should live by.
Missouri’s Retirement Dilemma: Two Cities Named Among the ‘Worst’ in America
More times than you can shake a stick, you’ve brought up the St. Louis vs. Kansas City rivalry in conversation.
Whether it’s about sports, BBQ, or just general city preference, you’ve picked a side and aren’t going back.
Toasted ravioli is certainly a food group, right?
At every family reunion, you’ve undoubtedly had this breaded and fried St. Louis gold with marinara.
You know the Lake of the Ozarks is a summertime paradise and a breeding ground for drama fit for reality television because you’ve been there at least once.
Instead of “pop,” you say “soda.”
Plus, you’ve undoubtedly engaged in a similar debate with a northerner.
The time spent waiting in line for Ted Drewes’ frozen custard was time well spent.
You may have even sang “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” as if it were the national anthem at a Cardinals game.
No one should miss a St. Louis baseball game, whether they are die-hard fans or whether they are simply in it for the hot dogs.
Miles of farmland have passed you by, yet you’ve never once been bored.
Even if you’ve seen your fair share of maize, soybeans, and cows, the scenic hills are what really make the journey worthwhile.
A “Missouri Turnaround” has ensnared you.
If you’ve ever gotten lost in the middle of nowhere, you know that back roads will always lead you.
You’ve been on every roller coaster at Silver Dollar City, but the aroma of freshly baked funnel cake at an Ozarks amusement park still doesn’t compare.
The Arch has served as your guiding light. The Arch is a constant landmark, serving as a landmark whether you’re in the heart of St. Louis or miles away.
Having made it through at least one tornado season, you’re probably familiar with the routine: as soon as the sirens sound, you either go to the basement or to the porch (since, after all, who doesn’t enjoy watching a storm blow by?).
If you aren’t Catholic, you’ve probably been to a fish fry at some point during Lent.
Fried fish, hush puppies, and coleslaw are staples at this Missouri event.
Even if you didn’t attend Mizzou, you still cheer for the Tigers and will yell out “M-I-Z, Z-O-U” whenever the mood strikes you.
If you’re nodding in agreement, then you must be a native Missourian! Everything that makes Missouri unique, from your passion for barbecue to your strong opinions about local rivalries, you’ve embraced.
Indulge in some toasted ravioli, board a float, and take in the unique sights and sounds of the Show-Me State!
