Christmas Break

Katie and I had a great vacation in Ohio, seeing friends and family. We've finally mastered the technique of making the 11 hour or so drive in a way where we don't ruin our sleeping schedule. Basically we leave in the evening, drive through the night while eating minimal food and probably stopping once or twice at a rest stop for a quick power nap. And man, Tobi is the greatest dog for driving. He doesn't make a sound (and no he isn't dead when he doesn't).

Columbus is always new and growing every time I come back. The weather was nice, sunny, and temperate compared to the cold Wisconsin winter, age old friends are getting married or moving on with their studies and careers, my family and house is relaxing with a very homey feeling, New China is still amazing. Life is good.

I know I still haven't gotten my mind fully out of the holiday mood yet. Hopefully this week I can make the transition seeing as things are going to start picking up with sermons, Bible studies, catechisms, visits, etc., not to mention my own private research and weird projects I do.

On the way back I decided I'd do something a little interesting for this blog. I decided I'd make a short "You know you're from Ohio when" list. Maybe later I'll do a Columbus or even Westerville one...we'll see...I know for some it'll be spot on, whereas others will disagree, but that's just how things are when you make statements in general. The list won't be in any specific order and it'll just speak of my personal experience. Here it goes! I'm open to any additions.

You know you're from Ohio when...

you have trouble identifying with any specific region of the country (Eastern, Southern, Midwestern, etc.).

you sort of chuckle when anyone talks about great amusement parks or roller coasters they like when you're used to not only Cedar Point, but also Kings Island.

you hear Miami and Cuban fiestas don't come to mind, but a university in a town called Oxford which isn't in England.

you find more northern states too cold in the winter and more southern states too hot in the summer.

you actually know what a Buckeye is.

you know that for better or for worse, when you yell out O-H on the street, someone will yell back I-O.

you think Tim Horton's is local (see earlier blog post).

Bob Evans seems to take the place of McDonald's on interstate exits.

you think it's odd to have to drive more than a few hours to hit several major sports venues, concert venues, or vacation spots.

you'd at least at times prefer Lake Erie to an ocean beach because you can't stand that nasty salt water feel it gives.

you feel jipped if you order something from a 99¢ from a fast food value menu and don't get a penny back (Ohio doesn't tax take out foods).