9 Surefire Signs That You Were Always Meant To Be A Michigander

Every so often, a newcomer arrives in Michigan and quickly realizes that they’ve been missing out on our state’s beauty for decades. It takes a special sort of person to fully embrace the quirks and unique qualities of the Great Lakes State, but we’re always eager to welcome new residents with open arms. Thinking of making the move? Here are nine signs that you’re truly meant to be a Michigander.

Flickr/DebMomof3

And we’re not talking about the ocean. If you’ve always felt yourself drawn toward freshwater beaches in all their sprawling splendor, Michigan is the place for you. They don’t call us the Great Lakes State for nothing, and Michiganders have easy access to some of the most gorgeous freshwater shorelines in the world. If you’ve always loved the water, Michigan will love you.

Flickr/Sarah Razak

When it comes to indigestion, perhaps you’ve never understood the appeal of Pepto Bismol. Let’s be honest: why would we guzzle down that pink glop when we could simply sip on a bit of fizzy Vernors ginger ale? If you’ve found yourself soothed by this healing elixir, you’re a true-blue Michigander.

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Flickr/Sailing Nomad

Some people find excitement in the idea of venturing to Disneyworld or going out west, but we Michiganders are thrilled when we have the chance to venture northward. No matter what the phrase "Up North" means to you, you’re definitely a real Michigander if you get excited just thinking about the family togetherness, waterfront relaxation, and natural splendor that awaits.

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Flickr/Chris Chan

Let’s be honest: Michigan has its fair share of potholes and poorly paved roads. While we continue to hold out hope that our roads will be improved, most of us have simply adjusted to the frustrating realities of driving here in the Great Lakes State. If you’ve never been bothered by a massive hole in the pavement or two, perhaps you were meant to be a Michigander.

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Flickr/Eddie Walker

We Michiganders don’t budge when it comes to the name of our beloved fizzy beverages. If you’ve always felt inclined to speak up and defend the word "pop" when others insist on saying "soda," you’ve got what it takes to be a true Michigander. We’re even proud to use the "p-word" when we’re traveling out of state in the heart of "soda" country!

Flickr/Michigan Municipal League

Not a fan of traditional maps? You’re a perfect fit for life in Michigan, where we point to our hometowns using our palms. Our state is conveniently shaped like a mitten, so it’s easy to show new pals where we come from without resorting to a "real" map. If this sounds like you, welcome to the club.

Flickr/Rod

Sand dunes, cornfields, hilly greenery, and rocky shorelines - these are just a few of Michigan’s stunning natural formations. Our state is lucky to house a wide variety of landscapes, so newfound Michiganders should be ready to appreciate each and every one of these beautiful attractions. If you’d prefer to live in a state where variety is hard to come by, Michigan might not be the place for you.

Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM

You’re going to need those pronunciation skills if you decide to settle in Michigan. With names like "Mackinac," "Sault Ste. Marie," "Gratiot," "Charlevoix," and "Ypsilanti," our state is a wonderland for those who pride themselves on quickly deciphering tough-to-say words. If you’ve always appreciated a tongue-twister, you might just fit in as a natural Michigander.

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Flickr/J. Stephen Conn

No matter where you were born, if your eyes well up with tears when a pensive "Pure Michigan" ad comes on the radio or TV, it’s time to hop on a plane and make your way to Michigan. Those of us who have called the Great Lakes State home for years can’t help but be moved by the beautiful nostalgia of these ads, and your emotional response is a perfect gauge for your level of dedication to Michigan.

Okay, fellow Michiganders: it’s your turn to chime in! Are there any other undeniable signs that someone was born to live in the Great Lakes State? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!