Things…
I have been thinking of what to add to this post most of the summer, so I suppose it is finally time to write it. The following are things I learned while in Texas. (I will probably add as I think of more).
** Disclaimer: As it has been pointed out to me numerous times this summer I am “clearly not from Texas”… In fact, before May 19, 2011 I never once stepped foot in Texas. I totally own that these observations are biased due to my outsider’s perspective and are very likely generalizations. I am not intending to be offensive, but it might happen.
So, I present to you Things I have learned in Texas….
Driving:
Texans love pickup trucks. I mean, I probably should have known this before I got here, but it is true I have seen more trucks in Texas then I have probably ever seen in my life. These are no ordinary sized trucks either I swear everyone has 4-door F150.
Texans love U-turns. Again, I have witnessed more U-turns in the few months I have been here than I have ever seen in Illinois.
The reflectors in the middle of the roads are raised above the ground slightly, I swear in IL they are sunken to be the same level as the road.. I will have to check to make sure I am right on this one.
Texas roads are weird. First of all they have weird names like F and B Road, or they include a lot of numbers like Farm to Market Rd. 2818. Also, sometimes you think you are on a highway (indicated by number of lanes and/or speed limit… and then suddenly there is a stoplight. It is really strange.
Clothing:
I must say I have experienced some fascinating fashion trends here in Texas.
Texas moms particularly have interesting fashion sense. There were quite a few moms who THINK they could be mistaken for their daughter’s sister and insist on dressing like an 18 year. Not ok.
Texans (especially Texas Moms) love rhinestones. On everything. Shoes, jewelry, shirts, jeans… everything. must. be. bedazzled.
Texans love boat shoes. I swear everyone here has a pair of Sperry top siders. I wonder how many of them actually own a boat.
Girls here love running shorts. Seriously, every A&M female student wears running shorts and t-shirts, when they are not running.
Jesus:
Texans love Jesus. Obviously a lot of people love Jesus, but not they way Texans do. Almost every student I met goes to church regularly, is part of a bible study, etc.
Crosses are a fashion/decoration statement… and not necessarily religiously affiliated. Everyone has a cross (many of which are bedazzled). I have been told that in Texas a cross is the standard gift.. equivalent to candles or bath products in Illinois.
Other:
Texas is hot. Duh. But no, seriously it is hot.
Because Texas is hot, it is okay to sweat. Everyone does it.
Everyone in Texas carries a cup/water bottle/mug/ whatever. Hydration is important.
How to handle heat exhaustion… I made it without experiencing it myself, but know what to do in case it happens!
People say some weird things. Like “fixin” and “ters” (which I learned is East Texas for TOURS). But people think I have an accent. Whatever.
Texas at night is beautiful. There is something about the way it feels/smells I will never forget it.
Trying new things is so worth it. I learned to step outside my comfort zone and do something I think I might not like.
There are some good looking (and incredibly nice) men in Texas.. just saying.
I kinda love Texas.
Food:
Everything really is bigger in Texas. Especially food portions.
Texans love meat. For real.
Texans love fried things. Chicken fried steak, chicken fried chicken.
Things I Did Not Learn In Texas:
How to say no to Sbisa dining hall cookies. Seriously, so delish.
How to sleep comfortably in a Twin XL bed.
How to enjoy cold showers (no hot water for a month and a half).
