Though I was born in Canada and spent time in Illinois, my childhood was predominantly shaped by the great state of Wisconsin. Here’s what you can be sure of if you hail from the land of cheese and lakes.
Stop Your Complaining!
Midwesterners are renowned for their kindness, but they also embody a stoic resilience when faced with challenges. Imagine a blizzard dropping 31 inches of snow on Halloween. In Wisconsin, Halloween won’t be canceled. Sure, it might take longer for the little ones to collect candy, but trudging through a snowdrift can be an adventure in itself! And hey, what’s that Toro 18 inch Electric Power Curve Snow Thrower doing in the garage if not for clearing a path while decked out as your favorite superhero? Seriously, quit your whining.
It’s Not ‘Soda’—It’s ‘Pop’
If you’re from Wisconsin, there’s simply no way you refer to fizzy drinks as “soda.” That term is practically foreign here!
Every Season Has Its Purpose
Wisconsin’s seasons can be summed up as: Packers, Brewers, Packers, and the twinkling lights of the holiday season. December is all about festive lights that may elevate your electric bill but also light up the neighborhood. And let’s not forget the plastic deer and other whimsical decorations that dot the lawns during the holidays.
A Legendary Work Ethic
Graduates from the University of Wisconsin and its branches are highly sought after in major cities like New York and San Francisco. Employers appreciate their politeness and lack of entitlement. These graduates are more than willing to take on tasks like running errands or managing documents, confident that hard work will eventually lead to their success. In Wisconsin, we believe in putting our heads down and getting the job done—no excuses.
Cheese Is the Answer
When life gets tough, a slice of extra sharp cheddar can make everything better. For particularly challenging days, we might even reach for some Swiss.
Water Skiing Is a Must
In a state with over 15,000 lakes, spending time on the water is a rite of passage. If you can’t water ski, you might want to rethink your priorities!
Respect for Elders
Wisconsinites are generally well-mannered, especially when it comes to respecting their parents. Community values instilled by local churches emphasize honoring family, and it shows in the behavior of the youth.
Cow-Tipping Happens
While not everyone lives on a farm, the opportunity to tip cows does exist, especially among bored teens after a Friday night game. But trust me, this is not an activity to undertake lightly.
Friday Night Fish Fry Tradition
No matter if you’re in Fond du Lac, Milwaukee, or Green Bay, Fridays are synonymous with a classic fish fry. Gather your family for crispy cod and golden fries, preferably served in a lively church basement. If you’re in Sun Prairie, you must check out Buck & Honey’s!
Bratwurst vs. Spoiled Kids
In Wisconsin, “brats” (pronounced brahts) refer to delicious sausages, not unruly children. Treat them with the respect they deserve, ideally with a side of sauerkraut.
Beer: A Cultural Staple
For those over 18, having a beer is almost an unspoken rite of passage. While we advise against drinking and driving, sharing a brew at a barbecue is perfectly acceptable. Wisconsinites take pride in local breweries like Leinenkugel’s and Capital Brewery. If you’re in Madison, you might find yourself enjoying a cold one on the university terrace overlooking Lake Mendota. This is why many Wisconsinites never truly leave home, while those who do always find their way back.
For more insights on family planning and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on donor insemination. If you’re exploring options like sperm or egg donation, you can find authoritative guidance at this link. And for those interested in the practicalities of self-insemination, consider exploring our home insemination kit.
In summary, growing up in Wisconsin instills a strong sense of community, hard work, and love for local traditions—whether it’s cheese, fish fries, or a good old-fashioned brat.