Maine might be the northernmost state in New England, but it’s got a warmth all its own. From the rugged coastline to the peaceful wilderness, Maine offers a lifestyle that’s as laid-back as it is hearty. If you’ve lived here long enough to experience these 10 things, there’s no denying it—you’ve been living in Maine for far too long.
You’ve Explained How to Pronounce “Cousin” (And Realized It’s All About the “Cah” Sound)
In Maine, words have their own unique sound, and you’ve found yourself explaining how to pronounce “cousin” correctly to out-of-towners—emphasizing that it’s not “coo-sin,” but rather “cah-sin.” You’ve also probably thrown around other Maine-isms like “wicked” and “ayuh” with ease.
You’ve Had Lobster and Realized It’s a Lifestyle, Not Just a Meal
If you’ve lived in Maine, you’ve probably had lobster more times than you care to admit. From lobster rolls to lobster bisque, you’ve not only eaten lobster but have grown accustomed to the idea that it’s a way of life. And, of course, you’ve become an expert at cracking open those shells without making a mess.
You’ve Trudged Through Snowdrifts and Thought, “I’ll Just Walk to the Store”
Winter in Maine can be intense, and you’ve spent many days battling snowstorms. But you’ve learned to embrace the snow—whether it’s shoveling your driveway for the fourth time in a day or simply walking through waist-deep snowdrifts to get to your favorite local store. You’ve gotten so used to it that you probably think it’s fun (at least a little bit).
You’ve Had a Conversation About the Best Place to Get a Whoopie Pie
Maine takes its whoopie pies very seriously, and you’ve had a lively discussion (or maybe even a heated debate) about where to get the best one. Whether it’s from a bakery in Portland or a stand by the side of the road, you’ve learned that everyone has their own “right” version of this classic Maine dessert.
You’ve Taken the Time to Learn the Names of Every Maine Beach (Even the Hidden Ones)
The Maine coastline is dotted with gorgeous, often secluded beaches, and if you’ve lived here long enough, you’ve made it your mission to visit as many as possible. Whether it’s Old Orchard Beach, Popham Beach, or some little-known spot off the beaten path, you’ve spent hours exploring and enjoying the beauty of Maine’s shores.
You’ve Avoided the Tourist Crowds in the Summer (Or At Least Tried)
In Maine, you know that summer is prime tourist season, and if you’ve been here long enough, you’ve learned to plan your trips accordingly. You know how to avoid the long lines at Acadia National Park and how to get your favorite lobster roll before the crowds roll in.
You’ve Had to Explain to Outsiders That “Maine is a Different Kind of Cold”
Maine’s cold is different—it’s sharp, it’s biting, and it cuts through your layers of clothing. You’ve had to explain that it’s not the same as a chilly day in, say, New York, because Maine’s cold makes you feel it in your bones. And yes, you do wear layers upon layers of clothes to survive it.
You’ve Had an Unexpected Encounter with a Moose (And Lived to Tell the Tale)
Living in Maine means you’re no stranger to the possibility of a moose sighting. Whether it’s crossing the road or wandering through your backyard, you’ve probably had a close encounter with one of these majestic animals. You’ve learned to give them space, but let’s be honest—you probably still bragged about it to anyone who’d listen.
You’ve Driven Through the Woods and Wondered If You Were on the Set of a Movie
Maine’s wilderness is so picturesque, it feels like you’re driving through a scene in a movie. Whether it’s autumn when the leaves turn colors or a misty morning on a backroad, you’ve driven through the state’s forests and thought to yourself, “I can’t believe I live here—this looks straight out of a postcard.”
You’ve Developed a Deep Appreciation for a Good Maine Winter Coat
You know that a good winter coat in Maine is worth its weight in gold. You’ve spent time picking the perfect one, layering up, and accepting that, yes, you will be wearing this coat for months. It’s a rite of passage, and you know better than to leave the house without it.
If you’ve braved the snow, enjoyed the lobster, and explored every corner of Maine, you’ve embraced all that the Pine Tree State has to offer. From its rugged coastlines to its peaceful woods, Maine teaches you the value of slowing down, appreciating the little things, and always being prepared for whatever weather comes your way. Once you’ve experienced Maine, you know that no matter where you go, there’s nowhere quite like it.
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