15 Signs You Are From New Jersey
New Jersey isn’t just another state on the map. For those of us who call it home, we get the chance to experience so many different things; like day trips into NYC or Philly, hiking, going to the shore, or simply driving down the highway feeling free. Here are 15 things that people from New Jersey are sure to understand.
1. New York Means NYC.
We live so close and know the difference between NYC and New York State by now, so New York refers to the city. Going Upstate to visit family? We know you mean New York State.
2. Jersey Accent?
Most people don’t talk with a Jersey accent. Maybe a few words here and there, but not in everyday conversation. But there’s always that one conversation with someone from out of state when they ask how you say “coffee” and “water”.
3. The Shore
Going on vacation? Need something for the weekend? Go to the Jersey Shore! Hearing “watch the tram car, please” is normal, as well as all the food stands, generic shirts, and so many people. Since Hurricane Sandy, it hasn’t been the same but the memories are always there.
4. We Aren’t All Italian.
The Jersey Shore didn’t give us a very good name. While only one person on the show was actually from Jersey, people now assume that we are all Italian. I mean, Italian food is great and all, but we’re still not all Italian.
5. Aggressive Drivers
At least once in our driving lives have we either performed or witnessed ‘The Jersey Slide’ across the highway. Sometimes you wonder how people got their licenses and say you are a calm driver, until someone cuts you off.
6. Knowing It’s Not All Highways.
Yes, there are a lot of highways, but there are parts of New Jersey that aren’t made from cement. New Yorkers drive to North Jersey every fall to see the leaves change. There are beautiful lakes and national parks to visit. We are called the Garden State for a reason!
7. Getting Asked What Exit You Live Off Of.
With all the highways, most people live off the Parkway on almost 172 exits going North and Southbound. It’s a common joke to be asked what exit. But some people live pretty far off their exit. (I’m 40 minutes from mine).
8. Left Turns
New Jersey is home to terms like ‘round abouts’ and ‘jug handles’. You can’t just make a left-hand turn without having to go to the right first.
9. Does Central Jersey Exist?
Everyone knows about North Jersey and South Jersey, but there is the on-going debate of whether or not Central Jersey exists. I go to college in Central Jersey and there are still people that say it’s part of South Jersey.
10. Pork Roll Vs. Taylor Ham.
This debate divides the state. People up North say Taylor Ham and the South say Pork Roll. It’s so split that even the restaurants in each region have what most people say. (It’s Taylor Ham).
11. Diners
There are about 525 diners in New Jersey… yes 525. They have almost everything you want, from breakfast to dinner and depending on the diner, you can get some interesting type of food.
12. Wawa
This chain store is the best creation since… well you name it. Sadly it’s barley in North Jersey, but whenever we go down the shore or just have to drive through the state, Wawa is always a stop.
13. That Building Next To Metlife.
If you think you are procrastinating by reading this, look at this beautiful building. It was supposed to be an indoor skiing resort, but nothing has happened with it for years. It has become an eye sore next to the New York Skyline.
14. Great Adventure
Six Flags are all around the country, but Great Adventure and Hurricane Harbor live here in New Jersey. It has one of the tallest roller coasters in the world.
15. Weird Weather
We experience everything from hurricanes to nor’easters. It can be 100 degrees one day then negative 12 degrees the next (yes this has happened). We definitely need many different types of clothes.
These 15 things are sure to be recognized by any New Jerseyan. Whether you’ve just moved there or were born and raised in New Jersey, let me know if you can relate to anything on this list in the comments below!
*This is a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
Featured Image Source: weheartit.com
