Tennessee is proud of its southern hospitality and its contemporary eccentricities. It’s a place that loves its history and dreams of the future, the kind of state that values where it’s been and can’t wait to create and an incredible world for future generations. Still, no matter how thoughtful and ambitions Tennessee may be, there are still a few quirky things that will turn heads once you leave the state. If you try any of these ten things outside of the Volunteer State, well, bless your heart.

10. Debate your favorite kind of moonshine.
CC Chapman - Flickr
Most folks don't know what that is, so you just keep that delicious and incredibly strong alcohol to yourself. Now you don't even have to share!
9. Saying, "Bless your heart!"
Brent Moore - Flickr
It's really embarrassing that other people don't understand that. Bless their hearts!
8. Explain that everyone in Tennessee isn't completely enamored by country music.
Lock the Gate Alliance - Flickr
Sure, we're home to Music City, but not everyone turns to twang when they're in the mood for music. We've got a whole lot of musical diversity in this great state.
7. Sing "Rocky Top" with gusto…
Kevin Oliver - Flickr
…anywhere but the comfort of a very private place. Especially on the west coast, you may get a look or two.
6. Boast about your love of the Second Amendment.
Eric Allix Rogers - Flickr
It's great! It's awesome! It's in the Bill of Rights! But bringing up the 2nd Amendment amongst sensitive folks may make dinner a bit awkward.

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5. Complain that your tea isn't sweet enough.
Tyler Neu - Flickr
In most other places that's the reason the Splenda is on the table, sugar. Sweeten it yourself!
4. Scoff at the hot chicken outside of Nashville.
Shelby L Bell - Flickr
Music City coined that cayenne pepper-centric dish, and no one can truly recreate the crunchy spice of hot chicken. Just let 'em have their cheap substitute. You know where the good stuff is!
3. Wear copious amounts of orange.
Robert Karma - Flickr
Outside of Vol country, it's not too normal to deck yourself out in orange.
2. While we're at it: barbecue.
jpellgel - Flickr
Some folks love their subpar barbeque. They've never tried out true Tennessee dry rub, so we can't really fault them. Just don't make the other folks feel too bad. They just don't know any better.
1. Call mac 'n cheese a vegetable.
Tavallai - Flickr
In some circles it's true, but once you find yourself outside of Tennessee (especially up north!), you may get a look or two.

If you ARE in Tennessee then you need to check out these yummy hand pies at this local bakery. It’s a true southern dream.

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