Relocating to Michigan is an undeniably unique experience. While there’s so much to love about our state, we can’t deny that new Michiganders might be puzzled by some of our habits and traits. When you’re planning a move to the Great Lakes State, you’ll want to be prepared — so we’ve compiled a list of nine questions that you’ll need to know the answers to before taking the leap.

1. How do I get my car out of the snow?
Flickr/Letting Go Of Control
If you plan to live in Michigan, there’s one thing you can count on: you’ll find yourself stuck in the snow at least once or twice every winter. No matter how long you’ve lived in the Great Lakes State, it’s tough to avoid the frustrations of our snowy season. Do a bit of research, keep a shovel in your car, and prepare to dislodge yourself when the moment arrives!
2. What’s a party store?
Flickr/Thomas Hawk
If you’re relocating to Michigan from out of state, you might be baffled when you hear someone mention that they’re running to the "party store." No, this isn’t just a simple name for a shop filled with decorations and birthday cards: it’s actually synonymous with "convenience store." When you need to grab a six-pack of beer or a bottle of wine, the party store is calling your name!
3. Does it really matter if I call it "pop?"
Flickr/Jose Miguel
The answer is a resounding "yes." Here in Michigan, we’re serious about our soft drink terminology, and you’ll get plenty of stares if you ask for soda instead of pop at a local eatery. No, we won’t disown you, but you’ll feel much more like a true-blue Michigander if you make the switch to "pop."
4. What’s a troll?
Flickr/dailyinvention
We promise that we aren’t insulting our state-mates when we refer to them as trolls! In Michigan, "troll" simply refers to a Michigander who lives in the Lower Peninsula -- or "under" the Mackinac Bridge. Those of us who reside in the Upper Peninsula are known as Yoopers!

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5. How do I pronounce "Mackinac Island?"
Flickr/Steve Carr
Pronunciation is key when it comes to fitting in with your fellow Michiganders. Upon moving to the Great Lakes State, be sure to brush up on how to pronounce some of our (admittedly odd) city names. From Mackinac Island to Sault Ste. Marie, there are plenty of words that won’t come naturally at first.
6. Should I really take these deer crossing signs seriously?
Flickr/Jay Galvin
Trust us: you and your car do not want to have a run-in with a deer at 70 miles per hour. You’ll see plenty of deer crossing signs throughout Michigan, and it can be easy to assume that these are only placed as an extra precaution -- but deer and car accidents are all too common in our state. Be sure to stay alert.
7. The Great Lakes aren’t as pretty as oceans, right?
Flickr/Rachel Kramer
If you want to settle peacefully into your life as a new Michigander, you’ll need to develop a sense of respect for our beloved Great Lakes. We know it’s tough to believe, but these breathtaking bodies of water rival (and, in some cases, exceed) oceans in terms of beauty and fun. Whether you’re living near Lake Michigan or Lake Superior, you’ll quickly find something to love about our shorelines.
8. How do I play euchre?
Flickr/yooperann
No family gathering in Michigan is complete without a few rounds of euchre, so it’s important that you pick up on the rules before you find yourself feeling left out. It might seem confusing at first, but a few practice rounds will have you well on your way to becoming an expert at this beloved card game.
9. What do you mean by "Pure Michigan?"
Flickr/PunkToad
As soon as you arrive in the Great Lakes State, you’ll likely hear multiple references to "Pure Michigan." It’s our statewide tourism slogan, our unofficial favorite hashtag, and a simple but succinct description of our beloved home. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the beauty and attractions that make Michigan so wonderful, but just remember: "Pure Michigan" is whatever you make of it.

Tell us, current Michiganders: are there any other questions we left off our list? What do you wish you had known before moving to the Great Lakes State? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

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