It might not be possible to spend “too much” time in Delaware, but if it’s starting to shape the way you eat, the way you shop, and the way you live… well, you might just be a true Delawarean. See if any of these signs apply to you! If you’re bothered by what you find out, you can always seek counseling at Boondocks with a big jar of Swamp Water.
1. You don't question scrapple.
It is what it is. What is it? Let's not go there.
2. You switch from "hoagie" to "sub" based on the town you're in.
And both sound right. Some distinction can be made as to what the difference is between a true hoagie and a true sub, but you're as comfortable ordering an Italian Hoagie in Wilmingon as you are ordering an Italian Sub in Georgetown.
3. You can name a dozen different species of birds.
Birding is sort of our state pastime, thanks to the incredible National Wildlife Refuges and protected marshlands along our coast. Special shout out to the first Delaware native who identifies these little guys!
4. Every time someone says "the shore" you cringe a little.
We go to the beach, not "down the shore." Sorry tourists, the shore is one state north.
5. You know every back road farm stand.
Any Delaware native can find strawberries, peaches, cucumbers, long hots, and tomatoes quicker than they can find a gas station out here.
6. You can find the best pizza in Delaware.
It can be tough to find a good pie in Delaware, but if you've spent enough time here, you know where to find it. Hint: not at Grotto's.
7. You'll defend Delaware Crabcakes to the death.
Forget Maryland - in fact, the "Best Crabcake in Maryland" is frequently awarded to Crabcake Factory Bayshore - which is actually in Selbyville. Even Maryland knows that Delaware's crabcakes are amazing.
8. You know what makes a Delaware Bay oyster better.
For centuries, Delawre Bay oysters have been recognized for being some of the best in the world. Whether you prefer the milder inner bay oysters or the sweeter, nuttier Cape Shore oysters, you know that our oysters are the real deal. I'd go so far as to say that the Delaware oyster is the best oyster in the country.
9. You know that ketchup on boardwalk fries is a crime.
Vinegar is the only way to dress a bucket of Thrashers.
10. You can spot a Jersey Driver or a Maryland Driver from five cars away.
The Jersey Driver is cutting people off and speeding along, the Maryland Driver just looks lost.
11. You countdown to Labor Day, not Memorial Day.
Local Summer - when the tourists go home, there's plenty of parking again, and the water's still warm.
12. You simultaneously love and hate the State Fair.
It's hard to explain this senitment to out-of-staters. After all, every Delawarean has some amazing State Fair memories! We love this place. Out of staters aren't allowed to talk trash about our biggest festival! But at the same time, we'd probably be okay if it disappeared forever.
Are you a true Delaware Native? Is there any sign of spending too much time here that I missed? Share in the comments!
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